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CHEYENNE, Wyo.  A Wyoming man fainted when he was sentenced to up to two years in prison for using his cellphone to take video up a woman's skirt at a Cheyenne store last June.

District Judge Catherine Rodgers on Thursday rejected a plea agreement that recommended 38-year-oid Joshua McCard be given a probationary sentence for voyeurism. She sentenced him to 21 to 24 months in prison, noting his extensive criminal history included twice serving jail time for taking pictures up women's skirts at grocery stores.

The Wyoming Tribune Eagle reports McCard's knees gave way and he slowly sank down and fell backward.

McCord also had convictions for sexually assaulting his then-girlfriend's daughter in 2001 and another for domestic battery. Rodgers noted he was unable to meet the conditions of his supervised release in both cases.
Les blattes ou cafards (Blatta orientalis) sont des insectes qui appartiennent a la famille des Blattoptera. Ils se caracterisent par leur forme allongee, leurs ailes []
SAN QUENTIN  Officials say a multiple murderer has died of unknown causes while awaiting execution on California's death row.

San Quentin State Prison Lt. Sam Robinson said Friday that 69-year-old James David Majors died Thursday at a nearby hospital.

He was sentenced to die in 1991 after a Sacramento County jury convicted him of robbery and first-degree murder in the slayings of three people at a suburban residence. The bodies were found by one victim's 8-year-old son.

Authorities say Majors and an accomplice, Robert Reese, came to Sacramento from Arizona to buy methamphetamine.

They also stole methamphetamine, money and jewelry.

Reese was fatally shot in Arizona a month after the slayings.

California's last execution was in 2006. Since 1978, when California reinstated capital punishment, 71 condemned inmates have died from natural causes.
HAZLETON, Pa. - Starting a decade ago, a group of small U.S. cities began passing laws to block undocumented immigrants from living within their borders.

They were a collection of mostly white exurbs and faded manufacturing towns whose populations suddenly were transforming. More Latinos were arriving in search of jobs, and the towns' leaders complained of burdened schools and higher crime.

Here in this northeastern Pennsylvania city, then-Mayor Lou Barletta said he would do what he could to restore "law and order" and take back his city. It was time, Barletta said, for a "war on the illegals."

And while that sentiment is shared among some advisers to President Donald Trump, the experiences of these towns show how measures targeting undocumented immigrants can leave lasting and bitter racial divisions while doing little to address the underlying forces that often determine where newcomers settle.

The laws in most cases aimed to make it illegal for landlords to rent to undocumented immigrants and threatened fines for employers who hired them. But among the six most high-profile towns that tried to pass such laws, all have been foiled by court rulings, settlements or challenges with enforcement. Several have been ordered to pay the legal fees for the civil rights groups that brought suits. And in five of the six towns, the Latino population - legal or illegal - has continued to grow, attracted by a continued rise in low-paying jobs.

"It wound up costing our city $9 million in attorney's fees," said Bob Phelps, the mayor of Farmers Branch, Texas, a Dallas suburb that saw its ordinance defeated in court after a seven-year legal battle. "And we accomplished zero."

The local efforts were championed by two men who are now Trump advisers and reportedly were considered for Cabinet positions. Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach, who counseled most of the cities in their legal challenges, consulted with Trump during his campaign about issues including a border wall with Mexico. Barletta is now a U.S. House member and was part of Trump's transition team.

Trump on Wednesday rolled out the first phase of what is expected to be sweeping immigration policy changes, signing orders for the construction of a border wall and the targeting of "sanctuary cities" that resist the deportation of undocumented immigrants. His administration is also considering tighter restrictions on refugees from several Muslim-majority countries. Trump has more latitude to carry out immigration policy changes than states or cities do, but his policies could face legal challenges - or bring about unintended economic consequences.

"These ideas are more easy to sell as political talking points than as real policy options," said Muzaffar Chishti, the director of the Migration Policy Institute at the New York University School of Law. "Just because you say you want to do something doesn't mean you'll be able to."

---

The towns that took action - Hazleton; Farmers Branch; Valley Park, Missouri; Riverside, New Jersey; Escondido, California; and Fremont, Nebraska - did so largely out of frustration, fed up with swift demographic changes and what they saw as the rising costs of caring for undocumented residents. The newcomers were drawn by cheaper housing costs and new industries that attracted low-wage labor.

"The presence of illegal aliens places a fiscal burden on the city," Fremont's ordinance read.

At the same time, the federal government's inability to seal the border was helping to drive an argument that towns and states had the legal right to do a job that Washington could not manage. Kobach, a longtime activist who worked at the time for the legal arm of the Federation for American Immigration Reform, sought to use those towns as a testing ground for his aggressive stance. Most of the laws were passed in a flurry between 2006 and 2007.

Although immigration enforcement had long been the purview of the federal government, finding those who had crossed the border illegally or overstayed visas was not doable without the help of local law enforcement, said Rosemary Jenks, the director of government relations at NumbersUSA, which favors a reduction in immigration.

"You should help states and localities do what they want to do voluntarily in order to help the enforcement of immigration law," Jenks said.

But localities have not gotten the chance. In Hazleton and Farmers Branch, federal judges ruled the ordinances discriminatory and unconstitutional. In Escondido, the town quickly backed away after a challenge by the American Civil Liberties Union. In Valley Park, the town's mayor decided to no longer enforce what his predecessor had put in place. In Riverside, as legal bills piled up, the city council rescinded the ordinance, fearing damage to businesses. Dozens of other towns considering "Illegal Immigration Relief Act" laws backed off.

The municipality that has come the closest to successfully implementing such a law is Fremont, a meatpacking town west of Omaha where a six-year court fight, financed through a tax increase, won the city the right to ban undocumented immigrants from rental housing. But just as the city's officials put the law in place in 2014, they realized it would not be effective: Fremont's rental applications, with their wording approved by the courts, did not require the information, such as a Social Security number, that could help determine whether a person was in the United States legally.

Courts also have weakened several states' illegal-immigrant laws, most notably in Arizona. Michael Hethmon, who is senior counsel for the Immigration Reform Law Institute and helped Kobach handle the Hazleton case, said that the local efforts have faced more setbacks than victories but that the towns' money has been "well spent" in taking a stance. The towns had no data on the number of undocumented residents before or after the ordinances, making it difficult to measure how well the laws worked in driving away that part of the population.

"If you compare our advocacy struggle to other issues - civil rights issues or LGBT - you have to remember that those folks lost a lot more [at the beginning] before they ultimately prevailed," Hethmon said.

The battles over the local ordinances, residents of those towns say, helped create fault lines that remain visible. Escondido in 2014 rejected a permit for a shelter that would have housed unaccompanied minors who had come across the southwest U.S. border; a new ACLU lawsuit alleges that the rejection was driven by anti-immigrant sentiment. In Fremont, the town has been split by a proposed new Costco poultry processing plant - one that would add hundreds of jobs but probably would accelerate the arrival of immigrants.

"The makeup of our town has really changed, and again with this chicken plant, there's going to be a majority of low-income jobs that will not bring us taxpayers and homeowners," said Dawn Wiegert, 55, who has lived in Fremont for 25 years. "People that will be a burden on all of our other resources - I don't know how else to say it without sounding racist."

In Hazleton, the first place to propose an illegal-immigrant law, some of the tensions have worsened with the proliferation of social media, said Joleen Reis, 24, a Hazleton day-care worker who is one of the few who straddle the white and Latino communities. Her father came to Pennsylvania from Peru as a migrant worker and met her mother, who is white.

Reis pulled up a local-news page on Facebook. The latest item mentioned a police report - two men in dark clothing stealing from vehicles.

"So are you ready for America without illegals?" one commenter said. "Because I am!"

"Filthy animals!" another said. "Send them back somewhere now!"

Reis sighed.

"I try not to read this stuff, typically," Reis said. "But they assume everyone is illegal. And it's always 'us' versus 'them.' "

---

Tucked under the crisscross of highways near the Pocono Mountains, Hazleton had endured the slow-motion decay common in blue-collar manufacturing and mining towns, only this time there was a twist: A newer set of state tax breaks helped lure a blitz of distribution centers, as well as a Cargill slaughterhouse, to the outskirts of town. The Latino population, at 4 percent in 2000, had soared to 38 percent by 2006, with many Dominicans moving from the Bronx and Brooklyn in search of jobs and cheaper housing. Barletta said he was concerned about higher crime rates, and when a 29-year-old was killed, allegedly by undocumented immigrants, he decided to act.

He searched on his computer about get-tough laws on immigration, finding an ordinance, debated but never passed, written by the city council in San Bernardino, Calif. Barletta copied the text almost verbatim. Hazleton's ordinance would make it illegal for businesses to hire undocumented immigrants and called for fines for landlords who rented to them.

Several months later, Hazleton had a new law and CNN trucks outside its city hall.

Barletta emphasized that he opposed only those in the United States illegally and was driven to act by several obvious problems: The population was booming, but the tax base wasn't - a sign, he said, of undocumented immigrants not contributing to the system. Schools were spending more money to educate Spanish-speaking students. Hazleton's woefully understaffed police force - short by about 30 officers - was struggling to deal with an uptick in violent crime.

"I saw how it affected the lives of people, our emergency rooms, our schools," Barletta said in an interview. "A mayor had to take the stand. Listen, it wasn't fun - trust me. When my dog barked in the middle of the night, I had a shotgun under my bed."

The law easily won the city council's approval, but its enforcement was held up by an injunction and a lawsuit brought by civil rights groups, including the ACLU. In court, some of Barletta's arguments for the law ran into trouble: He said he didn't know how many undocumented immigrants lived in Hazleton or how many had committed crimes. The town hadn't studied it.

A federal judge eventually ruled that the law was illegal because it usurped the federal government's power and would affect not just undocumented immigrants but "those who look or act as if they are foreign." Other courts upheld that ruling over eight years. Kobach, paid $250,000 by Hazleton, did not respond to multiple requests seeking comment.

In 2015, a federal judge ordered Hazleton to pay $1.4 million to the lawyers who had fought the town.

The city, with a budget of $9 million, took out a bank loan and cut a check to the ACLU, said Joseph Yannuzzi, the mayor who succeeded Barletta.

"With that money," Yannuzzi said, "we could have hired 12 police officers."

---

Latinos now constitute 50 percent of Hazleton's population. They've opened up carnicerias and beauty salons and boutiques along once-decrepit Wyoming Street. They tend to be younger and much likelier to work than Hazleton's white residents, according to census data, and now make up much of the labor force at the airport-size distribution centers of American Eagle and Amazon.com (whose chief executive, Jeffrey Bezos, owns The Washington Post). Hazleton native Joe Maddon, the manager of the Chicago Cubs, several years ago opened up a community center aimed at building closer relationships between whites and Hispanics.

"To be honest, residents who were here before don't have no choice about the changes," said Eric Garcia, 37, a Dominican who moved to Hazleton from New York in 2005 and owns a photo studio.

But many longtime residents, unnerved by the influx of foreigners, have left the city limits for what they call the "valley" suburbs. With an immigration message similar to Barletta's, Trump won nearly 60 percent of the votes in Hazleton's Luzerne County.

Jamie Longazel, a Hazleton native and University of Dayton sociologist who in 2016 published a book about his home town, "Undocumented Fears," said that Barletta, with his ordinance, introduced a "villain" that people barely talked about beforehand. Longazel found in his research that only 0.7 percent of crimes in Hazleton between 2001 and 2006 had been committed by undocumented immigrants.

"I don't want to made it sound like Hazleton is only full of backwards racists," said Longazel, who conducted focus groups and interviews with longtime white residents. "I want to emphasize this point that a lot of the scapegoating we see is top-down. Politicians are speaking this language and then we tend to echo it, rather than there being malicious intent from the bottom."
Rep. Mike Thompson visited Napa Valley Care Center on Friday morning to answer questions from seniors and medical professionals about the future of healthcare coverage under the Trump Administration.

The first question came quietly from 70-year-old Gwyn Bissell.

She hasnt heard any specifics to what the replacement for the Affordable Care Act would be, Thompson said. Theres a reason why she hasnt. Theres no replacement.

Despite criticism of the Affordable Care Act, which is often referred to as Obamacare, Thompson said that there are parts of the legislation that are popular with an overwhelming majority of the country, including the provisions protecting those with pre-existing conditions and allowing young adults to stay on their parents healthcare plans until age 26.

Everybody wants to save those components, he said. You cant save them by themselves because it becomes costly to do that, thats why the rest of the act is important.

I had a question about the Medi-Cal block grants, said Julie DeSoto, a long-term care field ombudsman for Napa County. So from what I understand the money is going to go each state. Does it have to be spent on Medi-Cal or is it going to go into a slush fund? How are we gonna know where the funds are going?

Thompson said that most states would probably have some sort of protection in place to ensure that the money goes to Medicaid coverage, which in California would be Medi-Cal.

Some states  youre right  some states will try and play fast and loose with that, he told DeSoto.

On the Medicare side, the idea is to give everybody a voucher, Thompson said. Individuals with vouchers would take those vouchers into the community and find their own healthcare, he said.

And you know what would happen. Automatically that would become the floor and it would go up from there, so insurance companies would say OK, thank you for your  whatever it is  $1,000 voucher, you owe me $1,000 more.

Thompson said that there are, of course, things that need to be changed about the Affordable Care Act, but there has never been any piece of legislation that was written perfectly. The minute the ink is dry, he said, things start changing and you need to constantly address those unintended consequences and changes that happen in the world.

The thing that is offensive to a lot of people is this mandate that you have to buy insurance, Thompson said. Maybe I just dont understand that way of thinking, but I dont see that as being un-American or a problem. You gotta have health coverage, either that or you just gotta not go to the doctor or get sick.

We cant have it both ways, he said.

It would affect a lot of us here, said Jeff Jamieson, administrator at Napa Valley Care Center. About 85 percent of the people at the skilled care facility are covered by either Medicare or Medi-Cal, he said.

What do you see five years from now, he asked Thompson, how this really playing out?

I dont know, Thompson said. Im worried about the next two years and Im worried about making sure that we can preserve Medicare and that we can preserve access to quality, affordable healthcare.

Although there have been people who complained that their copayments and other costs increased when the Affordable Care Act was enacted, Thompson said that the data doesnt support that.

Sure, some copays went up. Sure, some healthcare costs went up but overall the increase in healthcare is the lowest now than its been in the last 20 years, he said. Without the Affordable Care Act, healthcare costs were going to increase anyway, he said.

If the Affordable Care Act is repealed, he said, people with preexisting conditions will become financially strapped since the provision protecting them will also be gone.

If you have a kid who is 8 years old or 15 years old and diagnosed with Type I Diabetes, this is gonna follow them for the rest of their life, Thompson said.

Jamieson said costs that arent covered, like particular medicines, add up quickly. When his son was diagnosed with cancer nine years ago, he said he had to sell his home and move in with in-laws in order pay for his sons medical coverage. Its a long-term problem, he said, and it affects more than just seniors.

Cancer doesnt strike just liberals or just conservatives, cancer strikes everybody, Thompson said. Were all susceptible to these medical tragedies.

Thompson said that people need to tell their stories and make sure that people know that this issue is important to them  share them with their representatives and their communities. Write letters to the editor and speak at public meetings, he said.

I was very concerned about what would happen to our Medicare and he answered all the questions that I had, said Delores Sisler, 87. I feel a lot better.

Just hours after Thompons visit to Napa Valley Care Center, his office sent out a press release in response to the White House ending its outreach on open enrollment for Obamacare. Although open enrollment through HealthCare.gov lasts until Jan. 31, the White House said that it will not be going through with an advertising campaign aimed at getting younger adults to enroll in healthcare before deadline, according to Thompsons office.

Thompson said that the move is irresponsible. Despite the fact that President Trump wants to repeal the Affordable Care Act, it is still in place and that Americans have a right to know when open enrollment ends, he said.

In California, outreach and marketing is coordinated through Covered California, and will continue as planned, Thompsons office said. California residents can sign up for health insurance at coveredca.com.
In December 2010, a scholarly article from the Environmental Science and Technology journal was picked up by Chemical & Engineering News, and this, in turn, inspired an article in the Wall Street Journal reporting that, based on recent research, 29 percent of the pollution in the San Francisco Bay Area had traveled across the ocean from east Asia.

But Napa scientist Dr. Joe Chuang says while this may be a stark reminder that wherever environmental problems may originate, the whole world can end up sharing them, so everyone in the world can find... ways to help solve them.

This is why he made eight trips to China in 2016 at the invitation of the Chinese and U.S. non-profit organizations of Clean Air Alliance of China in Beijing and U.S.-China Clean Tech Center in Los Angeles trying to alleviate Chinas well-documented pollution problems.

Chuang, a chemical engineer, was there to represent his Napa-based company, Eco Global Solutions (EGS), and in particular one of his products, EGS Boost. Both the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Chinese Ministry of Environmental Protection have both certified Boost as being able to dramatically slash emissions from combustion engines, which can cause life-threatening illnesses in people who breathe them as well as climate change that is threatening the planet.

China is serious about reducing its pollution, said Chuang, who has been working with China since founding EGS in 2009.

The pace, he said, accelerated after the 2015 Paris climate conference when 195 countries adopted the first-ever universal, legally binding global climate deal. Major cities like Beijing and Shanghai, as well as Chinese shipping and trucking companies, were already testing and using EGS products. Now the port of Shenzhen, industrial hub Xuzhou, and the oil field city of Dongying were asking Chuang to make presentations.

In 2016, Chuang was invited to participate in the U.S.-China Climate Summit in June, attended by Secretary of State John Kerry, and the Bluetech International Clean Air Conference in December in Beijing, organized by the Chinese government and the Clean Air Alliance of China to present EGS Boost.

(The Chinese) are searching the world for solutions, Chuang said. I was one of 20 American companies invited to participate in Xuzhou and Dongying conferences. They are small and medium-sized companies with a specific product to tackle one aspect of the problems causing air, water, and soil pollutions. But I think technologies of these companies will add up to a big difference.

Chuang had just returned from the December conference when he received another invitation to participate in a clean air conference in Shijiazhuang in January. I had to say let my staff in China handle this presentation, he said. I needed a break from traveling.

This was not exactly the future Chuang, 73, had in mind when he and his wife moved from Los Angeles to Napa Valley in 2007. His son, Max, had become interested in wine-making. My wife said if Max wanted to move to Napa Valley, then she would like to live here too.

Chuang purchased a vineyard in eastern Napa, and began exporting wine made from his grapes to China to support a foundation hed established to help poor, rural Chinese students continue their education.

A native of Taiwan, he had earned his doctorate in chemical engineering in the U.S., and worked at the Max Planck Institute in Germany and for U.S. companies before starting his own company. He made his first trip to China in 1979, and he and a French partner went on to build a successful pharmaceutical company there. But as the giant country embarked on its world-changing, rapid growth, Chuang said, he saw the beginnings of its pollution problems.

I first relocated to Los Angeles from Ohio in 1978, he said, when the pollution was quite bad, and I saw this ahead for China. I saw the need for solutions.

Chuang turned over the pharmaceutical company to his French partner to concentrate on Eco Global Solutions. He moved his company headquarters from Los Angeles to Napa in 2012.

EGS focuses on creating products to use in combustion engines with a dual goal of reducing emissions and improving fuel economy.

It is a question of being realistic about economics, he explained. Fossil fuels are the dirtiest but cheaper energy sources. Unfortunately we dont have non-polluting and cheaper replacement for fossil fuels at this stage. Nuclear power could be cheaper but the risks are great and nuclear waste disposal is a big problem. Electricity from solar and wind power is clean but more expensive, and it would require huge investment continuously for decades before fossil fuels are replaced all together.

My prediction is its going to take 30 years before we can limit our use of fossil fuels to perhaps 10 percent, Chuang said. We are stuck with them for a while but during that time we have to do something about the pollutions incurred by using fossil fuels.

Combustion engines (including both spark ignition gasoline engine and compression diesel engines) are not only used in on-road transportation vehicles and ships, but are also widely used in non-road fields in manufacturing (factories), construction, harbor operations, mining, agricultural (tractors, soil cultivators, etc), he said. Emissions from on-road and non-road combustion engines are about 25 percent each in the U.S. and China, which is about half of the smog contribution. Balance of the smog is mainly from coal-fired power plants, boilers, etc.

The pollution caused by diesel engines was a particular focus. Whereas the U.S. consumes 70 percent gasoline and 30 percent diesel, in China its exactly the reverse, Chuang said.

Chuang cited a report from Stanford professor Z. Jacobson, which noted, although diesel cars obtain 25-35 percent better mileage and emit less carbon dioxide than similar gasoline cars, they emit 25 to 400 times more mass of particulate black carbon (PM) and associated organic matter (soot) per kilometer.

Emissions of nitrogen oxides NOx and particulate matter (PM) pose deadly threats to people who inhale them, Chuang said; these include lung and heart diseases, lung cancer, and asthma.

His first product, EGS DFL, created for oil and shale gas drilling application, garnered awards from organizations like U.S. Louisiana Gulf Coast Oil Exposition (LAGCOE) and the World Oil Awards. EGS Boost was next, developed for ships, trains, buses, construction, manufacturing and agricultural equipment, all of which heavily depend on diesel fuel.

Chuang said that while his main goal was to reduce engine emissions, adding the fuel reduction incentive was imperative. We have to look at solutions from two ends: economic and environmental, Chuang said. The two interests dont have to be against each other. We dont have to be against each other.

After extensive testing, EGS Boost was certified by the U.S. EPA in 2009. As data from companies adopting EGS Boost came in, they clearly were noting the economic benefits. Arizona Valley Metro reported 16 percent fuel savings in six months of using EGS Boost. Florida Transportation Services at Fort Lauderdale, reported 13.8 to 16.6 percent.

After companies in China began their first field trials on diesel trucks and tour buses in 2011 and in ocean freighters starting in November of 2012, they reported fuel savings of 8 to 15 percent. This amount becomes significant Chuang said, when you consider that an ocean freighter could burn several thousand tons of fuel in one voyage, depending on the size of ship and the distance it travels.

Meanwhile, emissions of particulate matter dropped by 50 to 80 percent. One video from a trucking company showed emissions from a 2007 diesel truck dropping by half within two hours of adding EGS Boost to its fuel tank.

No matter how good a product might be for the environment, companies could be reluctant to use it if it costs them too much money, Chuang said. But if they see that it is saving them money, then everyone wins.

Today EGS products are being used in Canada, the Middle East, Africa and China, as well as the U.S. by transportation, agricultural, construction and oil/gas drilling companies, but Chuang said he does not see an urgent need to make EGS Boost available for general consumers. When you consider how much fuel a ship or a heavy-duty truck uses compared to a passenger car, you can see where the environmental impact is the greatest.

Chuang is optimistic about the ability of the Chinese government to tackle its pollution problem. And they can say we will do it and then do it.

Hes hoping that other countries will follow Chinas lead, especially India whose pollution levels in major cities like Delhi often exceed those of Beijing.

I would like to just relax here in Napa and make my wines, Chuang said, but I can help save a human life, I think I have to do it.
Loretta Bernice Witt passed away on December 30, 2016 in Sonoma, CA. She was 30 years old and she left us far too soon. Loretta was born in San Mateo, CA on November 5, 1996. She moved to Napa with her parents when she was 6 years old and attended Alta Heights her first year in Napa. She then moved to Northwood Elementary School when her parents purchased a home nearby, and she then attended Redwood Middle School.

Loretta began to have health issues in her teen years, which interrupted her schooling. Although she would have otherwise been in the graduating class of 2004, she took a circuitous educational path that included a school in Montana. She eventually received her H.S. diploma from the Napa Valley Adult School in June 2005. In spite of her health, Loretta wanted to continue her education, and she received a Bachelors degree in 2012 from CSU Monterey.

Loretta is survived by her mother, Nancy Boudett, who resides in Napa, and her father, Jeremy Witt, residing in Fairfield, as well as her two younger sisters, Jessica Witt and Emma Witt. She also is survived by a large extended family of Witts and Boudetts and many friends who were deeply touched from knowing her at various points in her life. We remember her as honest, empathic, intelligent, tenacious and charming. We are all very saddened by her passing.

Donations can be made to the American Diabetes Association, or Planned Parenthood in her name.
Al Wolf received the Lifetime Caring Award at Friday's Missouri Slope Areawide United Way Luncheon at the Ramkota, 800 S. Third St. in Bismarck.

Hundreds of volunteers and contributing agency members attended to celebrate a record-setting $2,616,216 for multiple community causes. Efforts included feeding 903 children via a backpack program and helping 1,395 victims of domestic violence.

The Lifetime Caring Award is given to an individual or couple who, through a lifetime of service work and volunteerism, have made a difference in the community.

Wolf is a past president of the Bismarck-Mandan Symphony Orchestra, the Bismarck-Mandan Serra Club, St. Marys Central High School Pride Parents and Music Parents Groups, and the Kennedy Memorial Foundation. He has served as the state officer for the Knights of Columbus and Jaycees and has held a number of board positions, including those with Assumption College in Richardton, Pioneer Heritage, the homestead of Lawrence Welk, and the United Way Board of Trustees.

"Al is a role model. He is part of a grassroots organization of so many parts of the community. He has given a lifetime of service," said Jena Gullo, executive director of MSA United Way.

She characterized the community's generosity as amazing.

"We hear that charitable giving is down," she said. "For us to exceed it, was an incredible feeling and so rewarding."

According to data collected by MSA United Way, 3,652 people volunteered, donations came from 7,202 sources, 23,234 people were provided shelter, 47,497 books were delivered, 1.87 million meals were provided, and 250,877 hours of mentoring and tutoring were donated.

The donations of time and money will support 33 partner agencies and 56 programs this year.

For more information, call 701-255-3601 or visit msaunitedway.org. For volunteer information, visit volunteerbisman.com.
A 23-year-old Napa man was arrested on Friday night after a resident noticed him in the drivers seat of a car with a gun in his lap on the 2100 block of Patton Avenue, according to Napa Police.

When police arrive at the scene at about 8:15 p.m., the suspect, identified as Luis Enrique Rodriguez, complied with officers and was detained in handcuffs without incident. Upon searching the vehicle, police said they found Xanax, marijuana, packaging, counterfeit money, more than $800 in cash and a loaded 9mm handgun reported stolen out of Las Vegas, Nevada.

Rodriguez, a convicted felon, was arrested and booked at the Napa County jail on suspicion of possessing narcotics for sale, carrying a loaded stolen firearm and being armed while in commission of a felony.
To be one of them is to know them  and a longtime monitor of Napa Countys nursing and senior-care homes is helping to look after men and women her own age.

Less than two weeks from her 91st birthday, Vera Fields has lived through a career in nursing that has put her in charge of everything from industrial nursing to a hospital surgery unit to the care of patients in their own homes. But her current role, the one she has fulfilled for 16 years, may touch more people than the others: as a member of the countys ombudsman office looking after elderly Napans housed in long-term care centers in the valley.

The work takes Fields to facilities like A Hidden Knoll, a six-bed home on a Browns Valley hilltop where she paid her monthly visit earlier this month.

Strolling through its carpeted rooms and past broad picture windows facing the city below, she spoke to a woman living at Hidden Knoll, then to the owner, Divina Samson, all the while taking notes on a clipboard to record details large and small.

Did the house include the required fire exits, wheelchair ramps and extinguishers? Were the bedrooms clean and tidy? Was the thermostat set to a comfortable temperature against the damp, mid-30s night to come? Were household chemicals locked away, as well as any medications? Could the manager produce resident menus for the next few days?

In contrast to one residents stooped posture and another mans trembling arms, their visitor, their age or perhaps older, was straight-backed, vital and inquisitive  and keenly feeling the worth of her work.

I get that all the time! Fields said of the reactions from many residents and managers about her inspection visits. None of you can say how a 90-year-old feels. Only I can tell you how I feel. Its an awesome feeling and a terrifying one, but its exciting, it really is.

Fields late-life career is an outgrowth of years in the nursing field and, she believes, the sensitivity to other peoples suffering the experience has created.

Being a nurse, youre easily moved to do something your heart is into, she said of her work for the ombudsmans office, which she joined in response to a newspaper advertisement. The simplest way to put it is that you have a heart.

Fields is one of four staff members who work along with 10 volunteers for the Napa County Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, which began in the 1970s and is overseen by the Solano-Napa Area Agency on Aging.

California law empowers programs such as Napas to advocate for the 2,000 or more people living in the 43 licensed nursing or residential care centers in the county, from small operations like A Hidden Knoll to larger chains like Aegis Living and on up to the Veterans Home in Yountville.

Skilled nursing centers are inspected weekly and residential care homes monthly, and ombudsmen also visit the Veterans Homes units for intermediate and memory care, according to Elizabeth Mautner, who coordinates the Napa County program. Staff also can visit facilities in response to complaints of abuse, neglect, shortcomings or substandard conditions, or to help resolve complaints made by residents or on their behalf.

Fields, whose visits include 16 residential centers and the Veterans Home, sees her role mainly as informing patients and families of their legal rights, and providing trust between residents and home managers.

The No. 1 problem is a lack of communication, she said. Most complaints stem from a lack of communication; people call and complain, and we check out the complaint. If we can fix it, we do it. You are the one person who can talk to all the parties involved. One person doesnt have all that access, but we have that access.

Weve built a good relationship with most elder care centers, said Mautner. We try and mediate, work with them so they know what their legal requirements are.

In looking back at her past, the longtime nurse described her many years at the side of a South Bay man  wheelchair-bound due to a genetic condition  that she continues to oversee through her part-ime job with Maxim Home Healthcare.

He cant move anything except his right hand, said Fields. He has the most brilliant mind and it makes me feel so frustrated when I see boys and girls out there that take lives for granted, and here is this young man who takes six hours for tests when it takes others one. He wrote me a letter once  and it took him half a day to write it  about what I mean to him. He cant wipe his tears or his nose, and yet he is so eager to learn.

 I get up and the first thing I do is thank God for having good health and an alert mind. Being a nurse, Im the first to realize that we take so much for granted. You just try to keep alert and keep educating yourself.
Before Donald Trump took office, foreign governments excused his heedless foreign policy rhetoric in hopes he would become more responsible in the White House.

Hope gone. Trump's belligerent insistence that Mexico pay for a wall, which provoked public outrage and government denials south of the border, forced Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto to cancel a crucial visit to Washington. Trump's economic and military threats toward China risk provoking an armed confrontation with Beijing.

But nothing better illustrates the dangers to U.S. interests and security posed by the president's careless rhetoric than his continued repetition of his longtime mantra: We should "take" Iraq's oil.

If Americans had seized Iraqi oil after the 2003 invasion "you wouldn't have ISIS," insists Trump, claiming jihadists wouldn't have been able to finance their caliphate. (Never mind nearly all Iraqi oil lies outside the area seized by ISIS or that ISIS funding comes from many other sources).

"So we should have kept the oil," the president told a CIA audience last week, "but OK. Maybe we'll have another chance." In other words, Trump still hopes to get his hands on Iraq's oil riches.

Such talk will not only undercut the battle against ISIS at a critical moment, it will endanger the lives of U.S. troops.

"There is nothing Trump could have said that would be more corrosive to our interests in the Middle East," says Ryan Crocker, the distinguished former U.S. ambassador to Baghdad. And nothing that so displays the president's ignorance of Middle East history and dynamics.

"This talk of seizing oil is a clarion call to anti-U.S. forces," Crocker told me, "because it plays to the myth that we were in Iraq to take their oil. Oil is the sacred touchstone of Iraqi sovereignty and independence. From 2003 all the way to Donald Trump we made clear that we understood that.

"Now Iraqis will believe that seizing oil is U.S. policy. Trump has made the myth come true."

In 2003, I got a similar message from Philip Carroll, a onetime U.S. CEO of Royal Dutch Shell, who served as top U.S. adviser to the Iraqi oil sector. He stressed the importance of leaving all decisions on oil to a sovereign Iraqi government. This key tenet of international law is of critical importance to U.S. oil companies seeking contracts in Iraq and the region.

Carroll also said respect for Arab sovereignty over oil was vital for Mideast stability. After all, the United States went to war against Saddam Hussein in 1991 because he violated international law by invading Kuwait to seize that country's oil fields.

In his ABC interview, Trump sneered at critics who cite international law, demanding, "Who are the critics who say that? I call them fools." Does Trump really want to imitate Saddam Hussein?

But there are other crucial reasons why the idea of seizing Iraqi oil fields is delusional. Arab governments still remember European colonial efforts to seize the region's oil nearly a century ago. State-owned oil assets are the crown jewels in many Arab countries.

For President Trump to raise the specter of colonialism, with America as the aggressor, will alienate our Arab allies in the fight against ISIS. To do so when U.S. troop are fighting alongside Iraqi soldiers in the battle for Mosul is irresponsible. It can inspire Iraqi violence against American soldiers.

"If I were a U.S. field commander in Iraq I'd pull my troops back to barracks," Crocker said, clearly furious that the president would needlessly put U.S. soldiers' lives at risk. If such an attack occurs, he said, "Donald Trump will be to blame."

All the more so since Trump has just insulted Baghdad and Iraqis by including Iraq among a list of predominantly Muslim countries whose citizens will be temporarily banned from obtaining U.S. visas, although the country is supposed to be our ally.

Americans may not realize that the new president's rhetoric is trumpeted around the Mideast, on TV and social media. Iranian-backed militias and Sunni Islamists will amplify Trump's threat to Iraqi oil. Iran's ayatollahs must be chuckling, as President Trump provides them with quotable "evidence" of America's evil intent.

In the past week, the president has spoken of possibly reinstating waterboarding, saying "it works." He wants to slash U.N. funding, along with refugee visas for those fleeing ISIS.

Torture, oil, visas, refugees -- all these presidential proposals will only inspire new jhihadis, whether in Europe, America, or elsewhere. "Trump has become the recruiter in chief for ISIS," says Crocker.

It all makes one wonder who on earth, if anyone, is briefing President Trump.

It can't be Secretary of State designate Rex Tillerson; as an oilman he would have warned Trump off of his delusions. It can't be Defense Secretary James Mattis, who is much too smart. If it is White House advisers Steve Bannon and/or Michael Flynn, we should all be very afraid.

Or perhaps these ideas all come from Trump, who refuses intelligence briefings and brags he knows everything he needs to know. Let's hope Mattis or sane GOP senators can persuade him he needs more input.

Otherwise the country should brace for foreign policy disasters -- caused by the same heedlessness with which the president calls for the seizure of Iraq's oil.

Trudy Rubin is a columnist for the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Hardly had Trump achieved supreme executive power than he got into a Pier Six brawl with the press concerning the exact numbers of people who attended his inauguration. Mr. Trump was apparently discomfited by the fact that more people may have attended the 2009 inauguration of Barack Obama than his. But what really seemed to upset him was that so many women participated in the Womens March on Washington, the day after Trump was inaugurated.

Trumps new press secretary Sean Spicer trotted out a passel of relatively transparent falsehoods regarding inauguration attendance, insisting by way of self-exculpation that its okay to disagree with the facts once in a while. Kellyanne Conway, currently the Counselor to the President, agreed with Sean, insisting that he was only supplying alternative facts, which presumably would make sense only in an alternative universe.

This was too much for journalist Rob Quinn at the Newser outlet. Weve gone Full Orwell! he wrote, no doubt leaving afterwards for the nearest watering hole.

Theres another problem, a much bigger one. Everybody knows that the computers of the Democratic Party were hacked during this past election. Its disturbingly similar to President Richard Nixon tapping the phones of the Democratic National Committee in the 1970s at the Watergate complexbut more disturbing this time around, because the hacking was done by the intelligence services (or contractors) of none other than the government of Vladimir Putin.

It is also clear that Putin ordered the hacks. That is what our intelligence agencies say, and they are saying so publicly. I cant imagine why they would be so unequivocal about it if it wasn't true--and our intelligence nabobs even did Trump the favor of making him aware of how much they know. Yet our new president, Donald J. Trump, refuses to concede that this hack was done by the Russians, but instead continues to praise Vladimir Putin, the Russian leader. Clearly the Russians have some kind of leverage over Trump, which I believe to constitute one of the most threatening security crises in the history of this country. The 45th President, Donald J. Trump, is beginning his presidency under the influence of a hostile government.

Worse yet, he refuses to acknowledge it.

What kind of influence, you ask? The truth is, nobody knows. Whatever it is, there is very little that goes on in Russia without Putins knowledge and participation. And Putinas a former Lieutenant-Colonel of the KGBis a master at using every kind of leverage. That's what they taught him in the KGB--how to recruit and run assets.

What we need to be concerned about is Trumps weird refusal to criticize Putinit all feels very much like somebody is loan-sharking Trump, and on the international stage that means somebody is using him to influence events in the U.S.

What I find most treacherous about this situation is those Trump voters in the U.S. who say, Well, if this is what it takes to defeat Hillary, so be it! It's hard to tell if they're serious or not; but if so, they're saying they are willing to let a foreign nation undermine our countrys electoral process to advance the interests of their political leader. These are the people that wear little flag pins in their buttonholes, and rave about the traitorous influence of liberalsyet now that America is in an authentic national security crisis, they side with their Maximum Leader instead of with this country's national security.

What happens if our intelligence agencies stumble on evidence that our president was played by Putin during the election? Does that become an "alternative fact," to be shoved down the memory hole for political reasons?

By so openly signalling that their loyalty to Trump is more important than Americas national security, Trump's followers in the Republican Party are playing with fireand perhaps even something worse.

Lawrence Swaim

Interfaith Freedom Foundation

Angwin
What a day for women's and girl's rights. Women's rights are human rights: equality, economic security, freedom from violence and discrimination, equal pay: the list goes on.

We are proud to be a members of the American Association of University Women, a non-partisan, non-profit national organization dedicated to advancing equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy, and research.

The thousands of Napans that our AAUW members stood with Saturday, Jan. 21, were a visible reminder that we, as an organization and as citizens, need to stay the course to advance women's rights. Our AAUW members who traveled to Sacramento were similarly moved by the large, diverse, and peaceful Womens March there.

Are you aware that women still only earn 80 percent of what white men earn? Did you know that women make up the majority of low-wage workers all while being the breadwinners in more than 50 percent of American households. Sexual assault on our college campuses continues. We have an under representation of women in leadership positions.

It was so hopeful, and humbling, to see young women and men standing together fighting for gender equity. They are the future of the equity movement. Mentor a young woman or man to help them stay involved. AAUW has been advocating for women and girls for over 100 years. Speak the truth to power. Stay the course.

Barbara Pahre and Pat Bardwell

AAUW co-Presidents, Napa County Branch
"I think we've been fortunate in our little state not to have had anything like this in the past. This could escalate with the new administration; this is about public safety, not retaliation."

 House Majority Leader Al Carlson, R-Fargo, on a bill introduced in response to the Dakota Access Pipeline protests.

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"Getting the XL pipeline back on track signals that our nation will begin to build the kind of energy infrastructure we need now and into the future."

 Sen. John Hoeven, R-N.D., an advocate for the TransCanada Keystone XL pipeline, reacting to President Donald Trump's action inviting TransCanada to reapply for a presidential permit to cross the U.S.-Canadian border with its tar-sand oil pipeline project.

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"I'd be surprised if we make it through spring without at least some minor flooding. It's too far out to say anything about a major flood."

 National Weather Service hydrologist Allen Schlag, previewing the first seasonal flood outlook.

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"If Glen Ullin primes the pump on this, there might be other municipalities that might like to do it."

 Glen Ullin city attorney John Mahoney, on the impact of a 2-cent tax on vehicle fuels being proposed by new city councilman Sid White.

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"It's been problematic with them setting up shop in people's yards and not wanting to leave. We see that occasionally, but it's worse this year. Places where they normally go  into sloughs for willow  they've been forced out because of snow."

 Dan Halstead, who heads wildlife resource management at Game and Fish's Riverdale office, on reports of moose hanging out in farmyards.

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"The heart of Standing Rock beats everywhere. The fire has been taken by 10,000 people, plus potential organizers nationwide."

 A statement from the Oceti Sakowin camp in response to President Donald Trumps executive order on the Dakota Access Pipeline.

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"We recognize ideas are changing on marijuana, but dramatic shifts are probably very difficult to control."

 Executive director Aaron Birst of the North Dakota State's Attorneys' Association, on efforts to decriminalize marijuana.

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"The reason we do this every year is the best way to change minds and hearts regarding respect for human life, through prayer and good example."

 Bishop David Kagan, on the annual right to life march and Mass in Bismarck.

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"There's a strong sense of need for a 2018 Farm Bill. There's more emphasis now on needing a Farm Bill when prices are low."

 Dale Ihry, executive director of the North Dakota Corn Growers Association.

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"We've been looking at reinventing government this session. We just thought now was the time."

 Sen. Jessica Unruh, R-Beulah, on SB2327 that would take all of the responsibilities involving environmental quality from the North Dakota Department of Health and move them into a newly created Department of Environmental Quality.

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"We have a serious drug problem in North Dakota. It's time we send a message to all that we will no longer put up with drug users who receive TANF benefits."

 Sen. Tom Campbell, R-Grafton, on a bill to require drug testing before residents can qualify for Temporary Assistance to Needy Families benefits.
"The DND chief, in a press briefing Thursday [January 26], said they are now determining on whether these specialized ships are essential for the modernization needs of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and whether the country can afford to acquire and maintain such an expensive weapons platform," PNA quoted the official.



He highly estimated Russian-originated diesel-electric underwater combatants. "However, Lorenzana said Russia`s diesel-electrics submarines are considered to be one of the best in the world," he said quoted by PNA.



The Armed Forces of the Philippines are planning to get diesel-electric submarines during the second Horizon of the Modernization program, which is expected to be implemented in 2018-2022.



 Copyright 2017 TASS. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Tenzin Dorjee, associate professor of human communications studies and member of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, was honored at a Jan. 18 reception by the International Campaign for Tibet and Office of Tibet.

CSUF faculty members and undergraduate and graduate students recently presented research and papers at commission meetings and conferences across the country. One College of Communications faculty member will deliver a keynote lecture at the California African American Museum, in Los Angeles, next month.

Tenzin Dorjee, associate professor of human communications studies, recently returned from Washington, DC, where he participated as a member of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom. He was honored at a Jan. 18 reception and discussion on The State of Religious Freedom by the International Campaign for Tibet and Office of Tibet as the first Tibetan American to be appointed to the commission.

Anthony Sparks, assistant professor of cinema and television arts, will speak Sunday, Feb. 19, at CAAM in Exposition Park. The two-hour program, Truth to Power: African American Comedians and Social Commentary, begins at 3 p.m. Sparks, a screenwriter and television producer, says his lecture is inspired by audio clips featured in the museums current exhibit Hank Willis Thomas: Black Righteous Space, and explores how groundbreaking African American comedians used writing, performance and humor to bring topics of race and social justice to the public conversation.

Yuying Tsong, associate professor of human services, served as programming coordinator for the National Multicultural Conference & Summits 10th biennial Looking Back to Move Forward Jan. 4-6 in Portland Oregon. Among the conference presenters were:

Counseling graduate student Karla Martinez and Mia Sevier , professor of human services, Mentoring Latino College Students.

and , professor of human services, Mentoring Latino College Students. Senior human services major Ariana Romero and Sevier, The New Majority: Finding Connections in Undergraduate Peer Mentoring.

and Sevier, The New Majority: Finding Connections in Undergraduate Peer Mentoring. Counseling graduate student Vi Pham 15 (B.A. psychology), undergraduate psychology majors Phuong Nguyen and Ngan Nguyen , and Tsong, Vietnamese American Older Adults Mental Health Belief, Knowledge and Help Seeking.

15 (B.A. psychology), undergraduate psychology majors and , and Tsong, Vietnamese American Older Adults Mental Health Belief, Knowledge and Help Seeking. Jessica Liu 15 (M.S. counseling-marriage and family therapy) and Tsong, Gender Differences in Chinese and Taiwanese American Older Adults Attitudes About Mental Health and Help Seeking. Liu, now a graduate student at Lehigh University, also coauthored the presentation Difficult Dialogues: Feeling Othered in Your Own Space: Causes, Consequences and Manifestations of Oppression. She chaired a roundtable session and coauthored the paper Its Not Easy Being an Asian Family in the United States: Generational Challenges Amongst Asian American Families.

15 (M.S. counseling-marriage and family therapy) and Tsong, Gender Differences in Chinese and Taiwanese American Older Adults Attitudes About Mental Health and Help Seeking. Liu, now a graduate student at Lehigh University, also coauthored the presentation Difficult Dialogues: Feeling Othered in Your Own Space: Causes, Consequences and Manifestations of Oppression. She chaired a roundtable session and coauthored the paper Its Not Easy Being an Asian Family in the United States: Generational Challenges Amongst Asian American Families. Joann Yang 15 (M.S. counseling-marriage and family therapy) and Tsong, Mental health Literacy and Help-Seeking in Cambodia.

Jesse Battan, professor of American studies, delivered a paper titled Freedom Does Not Mean Joy: Sexual Revolutions and the Flight From Feeling in Early 20th-Century America during the Dec. 15-16 international conference on Failing at Feelings: Historical Perspectives (1800-2000) at the Center for the History of Emotions at the Max Planck Institute for Human Development in Berlin.

At the November UNESCO Symposium in Paris, Binod Tiwari, professor of civil and environmental engineering, attended meetings as a board member of the UNESCO-sponsored International Consortium on Landslides and as a volume editor of the Fourth World Landslide Forum slated in May. Tiwari also presented a paper on his landslide research related to the April 2015 Gorkha earthquake in Nepal. Beena Ajmera, assistant professor of civil and environmental engineering, and civil engineering graduate student Brian Yamashiro co-authored the paper.
The government had bailed out Air India but not Kingfisher Airlines (KFA), beleaguered industrialist Vijay Mallya said on Saturday. "Government bailed out Air India, but did not bail out KFA. So much for favours," recalled Mallya in a series of tweets, three days after the market watchdog Sebi barred him from trading in securities with six others. The then UPA government had in April 2014 announced a Rs 30,000-crore bailout package to the loss-making state-run Air India till 2020 by way of capital infusion, hiving off its engineering services and ground handling business. Incidentally, Kingfisher grounded its services across the country in October 2012 after the civil aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) suspended its flying licence. The flamboyant 61-year-old Mallya, however, is reported to be in Britain in exile since he left India on March 2, 2016 after the consortium moved the Debt Recovery Tribunal in February 2016 to expedite the hearing on its recovery petition. The Tribunal on January 19 this year ordered attachment and recovery of Mallya's properties for defaulting on bank loans by Kingfisher. Allowing a joint petition filed in June 2013 by a consortium of 17 banks led by the State Bank of India (SBI), the Tribunal's Bengaluru bench said properties of Mallya and Kingfisher worth Rs 6,203 crore ($909 million) be recovered from them with 11.5 per cent interest per annum since July 26, 2013 over unpaid loans. Claiming that his now-defunct airline was the worst hit despite being the largest and finest in the domestic sector then, Mallya said he had begged for help (from the government) not in terms of loans but policy changes such as giving goods status for (aviation turbine) fuel and flat rate of state sales tax instead of ad valorem on it. "KFA collapsed with oil at $140/barrel and state sales tax on top of rupee devaluation. No FDI (Foreign Direct Investment). Engine failures. Economic depression. Need more?" recalled Mallya. Asserting that not one rupee was misused, the KFA chairman said he and his holding (United Breweries) group had invested Rs 4,500 crore in the grounded airline and two of his group companies settled dues just before the airline sought fresh loan from IDBI Ltd. "I was interrogated by the CBI and submitted documentary evidence," noted Mallya. Admitting that he was humble enough to say sorry to employees and all stakeholders every day, the tycoon said he really wished the government helped him as his airline sadly failed purely due to economic and policy situations. "I was not allowed to even downsize KFA due employment and connectivity. If my lifestyle was lavish it was for two decades before KFA was even born. My core alcohol businesses were severely controlled by the government," added Mallya. Accusing the media, especially some English news channels, of distorting facts for sensationalism, Mallya told them to do due diligence and asked why CBI was not saying what UB had invested in KFA. "Before slamming me on TimesNow, CNN News18 and NDTV, ask CBI and SEBI some tough questions on what proof or evidence they have to allege fraud," dared Mallya. Advising the news channels not to get carried away with one-sided allegations, Mallya told them to ask tough questions (to the concerned authorities) to justify their allegations. "TV anchors in India have become vociferous public prosecutors influencing public opinion. I only hope that our esteemed judiciary rises above," reiterated Mallya. Defending Mallya, Biocon Chairperson Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw re-tweeted that most entrepreneurs were in denial when it came to business failures. "KFA should have shut shop much earlier and Mallya would have avoided this mess," tweeted the Bengaluru-based Shaw and a long-time friend of the mogul. "I will never defend fraud but a genuine business failure should be settled fairly. If Mallya is guilty of fraud he must pay up," asserted Shaw. On Mallya and Kingfisher defaulting bank loans, Shaw retorted that there was nothing wrong in what he (Mallya) did in seeking help from (then) Prime Minister (Manmohan Singh) and (then) Finance Minister (P. Chidambaram). "Didn't the Big Banks seek a bailout from the US Government in 2008? Nothing wrong in what he did in seeking help from PM & FM," re-tweeted Shaw, adding "any large business across the world seeks government help when in distress". Shaw also cited auto major Chrysler in the US seeking government's help for its revival. "Totally wrong interpretation. Don't mislead public with such captions. Big businesses always seek government help in reviving business world over. Example Chrysler in the US," pointed out Shaw. Shaw, however, did not side with Mallya on not paying salaries to the airline's employees. "This is one point on which I don't side him. Employees come first and he (Mallya) was wrong in not paying their dues," added Shaw. --IANS fb/rn/vm ( 810 Words) 2017-01-28-22:12:07 (IANS)
A group of McKenzie County residents hopes the state Industrial Commission will agree that a planned salt water disposal well near their homes is too close for safety.

A group of 40, representing 15 to 20 homeowners who live on acreages about 12 miles northeast of Watford City, signed a petition presented to the Oil and Gas Division hearing panel last week when it reviewed pending permits for oil wells and related development.

Amy David, one of the residents, said the Oasis Petroleum well to dispose of salt water from oil production would be within one-quarter mile of about 10 homes and within 2 miles of the rest.

It would literally be in our back yard, David said.

Residents are concerned about noise, odors, light pollution and especially safety, because tanker truck traffic would go down their access road and right past the designated school bus pickup point, according to David. Another concern is possible leaching of the salt water fluids into the same source they all use for their private water wells, she said.

David said nearly all the residents have ties to the oil industry and understand how development works.

But at the end of the day, we want to go home and get away from it. With this, instead of sitting on my porch and watching the sunset, Id be looking at the lights of a salt water well and smelling it, she said.

Resident Bob Jesse said everyone out there would have a view of the well, thats planned to handle up to 16,000 barrels of salt water a day, most of which would arrive by pipeline, not truck. He said property depreciation is a concern, along with aesthetics.

No action was taken on the salt water well application brought by Oasis Petroleum, which did not return two messages left at the companys Texas headquarters and Williston branch office.

Alison Ritter, spokeswoman for Department of Mineral Resources Oil and Gas Division, said the case is a good example in which significant opposition goes directly to the Industrial Commission.

She said the case could be heard by the Industrial Commission in February, though it could be March or later if the permit panel wants a continuance to consider the issue in more detail.

Either way, she reminds residents that the Industrial Commission is not the format for public comments  those were already heard by the hearing panel  though the petitioners can attend and listen to any discussion.

There is precedent for the Industrial Commission to ask companies to relocate development facilities in a permit.

They can look at safety and access, Ritter said, though the first considerations for salt water well permits are based on appropriate geology and engineering.

Oasis Petroleum's permit, case No. 25523, is available at www.hd.gov/ndic/.
"If I weren't an actor, I'd be a teacher or an astronaut ... I'm a professor at the University of Texas at Austin! This semester, I'm teaching students about the science behind the magic of filmmaking," McConaughey told usmagazine.com.

The 47-year-old actor grew up in Texas and is keen to pass some of his core values he learnt as a child to his children - Levi, Vida, and Livingston, who he has with his wife Camila Alves.

"The things about growing up Texan that I've tried to pass on to my kids are a strong work ethic and no false drama," he said.

--IANS sas/nn/

( 134 Words)

2017-01-28-06:56:06 (IANS)
The behaviour of the activists did not go well with anyone in the Bollywood fraternity as celebs took to Twitter to condemn the incident and lend their support to Bhansali by creating #IstandbySLB.

Here is what they tweeted:

Kabir Khan: 1st they stop release of films..now they r trying to stop films from being made. Attack on #SanjayLeelaBhansali is SHAMEFUL #IstandbySLB

Aamir Khan: Deeply Saddened & Depressed about the attack on #SanjayLeelaBhansali so watched Guzaarish 3 times back to back to feel better. #IstandbySLB

Sunidhi Chauhan: I'm deeply saddened to hear about what happened with #SanjayBhansali sir. We have to stop this! #IstandbySLB

Parineeti Chopra: We stand by you sir. There is such a thing as freedom of expression and we will not allow cowards take that away. #IstandbySLB

Sophie Choudry: Movies..our biggest industry & yet we allow our movie makers to be attacked for their vision. Horrified. #IstandbySLB #SanjayLeelaBhansali

Arjun Kapoor: Shocked appalled saddened !!! #IstandbySLB it's unfair to target us as an industry just because we take a dignified stand n stay quiet...

Arjun Rampal: Is this not intolerance???? Well don't expect us to be tolerant to this behaviour.I do hope the govt takes severe action here. #IStandBySLB

Riteish Deshmukh: What happened on Sanjay Leela Bhansali's set is absolutely deplorable. #IStandBySLB : Over to you Rajasthan Police - Do the right thing. (ANI)
Censuring the attack on director Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) chairman Pahlaj Nihalani on Saturday said that if a stringent action is not taken against the goons of moral ethnicity, the tourism of Rajasthan will soon begin to die. Nihalani further said that it's not something new that such incident has happened in Rajasthan, as the people over there file court cases by merely watching the teaser of a film. The CBFC chairman also said, "If the government doesn't wake up now and take strict measures against such happenings, the Indian cinema industry will begin to wither." "People should have patience to wait and judge a film by watching the whole film rather than creating a ruckus by merely watching the teaser," he added. Members of the Raput Karni Sena had, on Friday, slapped, beaten and pulled Bhansali's clothes on the sets of 'Padmavati' at the historic Jaigarh Fort in Jaipur. The Karni Sena has alleged that the film shows much-celebrated Rajput queen in poor light. Padmavati, a historical drama, is based on the story of Queen Padmini, who famously refused to submit to emperor Alauddin Khilji when he arrived at the Chittorgarh fort with his army and killed herself along with scores of other women before he could storm the fort. The miscreants also allege that the film has love scenes between Queen Padmini and Alauddin Khilji, played by actors Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh. The Rajput Karni Sena has demanded the deletion of such scenes in the film if any.(ANI)
The commando whose name is Bomi, was assigned to take care of Shahid while the cast and crew shot at Pasighat in Arunachal Pradesh.

The two grew so close that Bomi even requested travelling with him to their schedule in Rohtang Pass.

"Shahid and Bomi spent several days together while shooting 'Rangoon'. Shahid was very interested in getting to know his life and the challenges soldiers face. He has a lot of admiration for our security forces and was happy to see Bomi enjoy the shoot so much," a source said.

The source also shared that Shahid ensured the commando travelled with the team to the next schedule and gifted him a leather jacket and a pair of boots.

Directed by Vishal Bhardwaj, "Rangoon" is a period film set during World War II (1939-1945) and also stars Kangana Ranaut and Saif Ali Khan in lead roles.

The film supposedly portrays the life and times of Mary Ann Evans aka Fearless Nadia, Bollywood's original stuntwoman, still remembered for her fiery role in the movie "Hunterwali".

The film is scheduled for release on February 24.

--IANS dc/sas/bg

( 223 Words)

2017-01-28-13:16:11 (IANS)
Filmmaker Mukesh Bhatt, amongst many B-town celebs, has condemned the attack on Sanjay Leela Bhansali by members of Rajput Karni Sena, saying that the government is provoking such people by not taking action. "It's shameful that such an incident has happened in a free country like India where the government is just watching the show. This is a very sad situation where one feels extremely helpless as the government is provoking these kinds of people by not taking action. We, people of film industry, just know how to entertain and are not responsible to handle law and order," he told ANI. Bhatt also said any organisation that needs publicity, targets the Indian film industry. "It's strange that even national parties, by supporting such people, are also stooping to such low level just to increase vote bank. Is that the only agenda of a political party?" The 64-year-old asks, "When you haven't even read the script, how can you say the facts have been distorted? Who has given you the power to create a nuisance without any authentication?" (ANI)
The attack on ace filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali on the sets of his upcoming film "Padmavati" in Jaipur by activists of a Rajput organisation has left many fraternity members "appalled". They have demanded for a strong action by the government. On Friday, the Karni Sena activists entered the Jaigarh Fort and assaulted Bhansali, according to the police. They even misbehaved with the crew and criticised the National Award-winning director for "distorting" history in the film about the medieval-era Delhi ruler Alauddin Khilji, who fell in love with Rajput queen Padmavati. "He (Bhansali) has packed up and has said he will never shoot again in Jaipur," a source said, while adding that now he has decided to have sets here. Speaking about the incident, Vivek Singh of Karni Sena told IANS: "We had earlier requested him (Bhansali) to show us the script which he did not do. We are against distorting of historical facts and we know that he has distorted historical facts." Karni Sena claimed they have got a big library. "In no book is it written that Alauddin Khilji fell in love with Padmavati or he was her lover," a senior leader from the organisation said. The film's lead actors stars Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapoor have condemned the attack by tweeting that they are in a "state of shock" and are "disheartened". "Sanjay sir is one of the most accomplished and authentic filmmakers we have in India, and he won't ever do anything to hurt anyone's feelings," Ranveer tweeted, while Shahid posted: "Words do fall short and feel too little to express feelings. Violence is unacceptable. This incident has shocked me. We need to look deep within as a society, as a country, as people...where are we headed." Siddharth Roy Kapur, President of The Film & Television Producers Guild of India Ltd., strongly condemned the "acts of vandalism" on the sets of "Padmavati" as a direct attack on freedom of expression in India's democracy. "The film industry has become the softest target for any fringe group looking for media attention, and we need the strongest possible intervention from the concerned authorities to end this and to end it now," he said. Kapur urged the "Government of India and the state government of Rajasthan to take immediate steps to ensure the strongest possible punitive action is taken against these miscreants, so it serves as a deterrent in preventing the recurrence of such unacceptable events in the future". Indian Motion Pictures Producers Association (IMPAA) vice president, Ashoke Pandit said: "It is very saddening and shameful that the incident has happened with an icon like Bhansali. On behalf of IMPPA and director's association, I strongly condemn the attack." Other Bollywood celebrities like Priyanka Chopra, Shabana Azmi, Rishi Kapoor, Karan Johar, Mahesh Bhatt, Raza Murad, Ashutosh Gowariker, Alia Bhatt and Hrithik Roshan have also lent support to Bhansali. "Can once the whole film industry come together and take a stand, and refuse to be a pony that all b******t and b************s ride on? At the same time shame on you Karni Sena, you make me feel ashamed to be a Rajput. Bloody spineless cowards. Hindu extremists have stepped out of Twitter into the real world now and Hindu terrorism is not a myth anymore," filmmaker Anurag Kashyap tweeted. Priyanka, who worked with Bhansali in "Bajirao Mastani", said: "Violence is not what our forefathers taught us." Shabana said that the Indian film industry must "stand as one" and do whatever it takes to ensure that the reprehensible attack on Bhansali becomes a "flash point for 'goondagiri' to stop". Raza Murad said that attacking the film fraternity has become a "practice these days". "As a democratic country, it is our right to protest. But attacking somebody is illegal. It seems we are in a situation where strong oppresses the weak. This is not a democracy. People don't have a fear of law and order," he said. --IANS iv-sas/nn/vm ( 668 Words) 2017-01-28-18:24:06 (IANS)
The makers of "Padmavati" on Saturday clarified that there is no dream sequence or objectionable scene between the characters of Rani Padmavati and Allauddin Khilji and said the attack on the film's director Sanjay Leela Bhansali was "uncalled for". "Sanjay Leela Bhansali has shot two films in Jaipur and despite his love for Rajasthan, for the safety of his crew, we have decided to leave the city post the shocking incident where miscreants damaged property and misbehaved with the crew on the shoot of 'Padmavati'," said an official statement issued on behalf of Bhansali. "SLB had directed the opera 'Padmavati' to packed houses in Paris and earned worldwide praise for it. He was inspired by the beautiful and courageous queen and is making a feature film on the story. "We clarify that there is no dream sequence or any objectionable scene between Rani Padmavati and Allauddin Khilji. We have been carefully researching and making the film... The attack on the shoot and crew was uncalled for and was extremely damaging to the image of the beautiful city of Jaipur," the statement added. The statement also mentioned that the entire crew of "Padmavati" is "grateful to the authorities at Jaipur who responded promptly and limited the damage. "We are confident that Mewar will be proud of the film made on their revered queen. We do not want to hurt any sentiments and would appreciate if the local people support us in making this film and making their queen revered by the world," the statement read. On Friday, the activists of a Rajput organisation, Karni Sena, entered the Jaigarh Fort and assaulted Bhansali, slapped him and tore up his shirt. They even misbehaved with the crew and criticised the National Award-winning director for "distorting" history in the film about the medieval-era Delhi ruler Alauddin Khilji, who fell in love with Rajput queen Padmavati. They damaged cameras and other equipment, forcing Bhansali to stop shooting. The film stars Shahid Kapoor, Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone in leading roles. --IANS dc/lok/vm ( 347 Words) 2017-01-28-22:20:08 (IANS)
The party organization which has announced candidates on 36 seats, has decided to support independent candidates in four constituencies which are largely Catholic dominated.

The BJP which had pre-poll ties with Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP) during 2012 assembly elections had won majority seats and formed the government.

The MGP recently severed ties with BJP joining hands with Goa Suraksha Manch, a political outfit mentored by rebel Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader Subhash Velingkar.

Goa goes to polls on February 4. (ANI)
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested two people in connection with the criminal conspiracy hatched within and outside India, with the intention of furthering the objectives of the Islamic State(IS) and for joining and supporting the organization. Accused Abdul Rashid Abdulla, resident of Kasaragod district and Yasmeen Mohammad Zahid, resident of Sitamarhi district, Bihar were booked on Friday under under sections 120-B and 125 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), besides sections 38, 39 and 40 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967. The NIA probe has established that accused Abdul Rashid was the main conspirator behind the offence of motivating youth, hailing from Kasaragod district to exit from India along with their families, to join the terrorist organisation. According to officials, Rashid had conducted classes at Kasaragod and other places in support of the terrorist organization and its ideology of violent jihad. He motivated another set of 14 co-conspirators, including another arrested accused Yasmeen Mohammed Zahid, to join the proscribed organization and plan for Hijrah to the Caliphate announced by the ISIS. The investigation has revealed that the conspiracy had been in operation since the month of July, 2015. Zahid was intercepted at the New Delhi International Airport on the July 30, 2016 while she was trying to exit India for Kabul, Afghanistan, along with her minor child, with the intention of joining her co-conspirator Abdul Rashid, in the territory under the control of ISIS in Afghanistan. According to the investigation conducted by the agency, it has established that Rasheed had raised funds for the terrorist organization and transferred such funds to Yasmeen, who utilized it for her activities with the intention of supporting the terrorist organization.(ANI)
Acknowledging that patrolling at Siachen glaciers is an ardent task for the armed forces to carry out, (Retd.) Colonel N Kumar, who is also called the 'Siachen Saviour', said the army has an operational requirement to patrol the glaciers as it would allow Pakistan to occupy the Indian side of Siachen pickets. "Operational requirement is such that we have to do patrolling. If we don't patrol the area then Pakistan will come and sit inside the pickets as it did in Kargil. Now, once you are going for patrolling which is to be completed in 10 days. If it starts snowing and even if they sit even then avalanche gets triggered. This is the operational risk which we have to take," Col. Kumar told ANI. Col. Kumar's comment comes in the backdrop of 10 soldiers getting killed after avalanches hit an army camp and a patrol in north Kashmir's Bandipora. It happened barely hours after an Army major was killed, also in an avalanche, in Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir. Talking about the risk it posses while patrolling, Col. Kumar said, "There are many kinds of avalanche fresh snow avalanche, ice avalanches. Avalanche is very dangerous for patrolling parties because in normal case you can wait for couple of hours, it is always said wait for 48 hours after snow fall. That is the minimum we do. It also depends on the side of the slope. I am afraid if patrolling party is going, they have to carry on once they are given a task and it is very dangerous for them." In military, Col. Kumar said, they have red string attached which flies up when an avalanche comes as an indication. Then the avalanche rods are used to probe and find out where the casualty is. "But the safest method is avalanche dogs. What 100 men can do in 100 yards, these dogs can do it in few minutes. Their sniffing power is so strong," he added. Col. Kumar informed that officers and men are trained at High Altitude Warfare School which lectures on avalanche and instructs every battalion as to what kind of precautions are taken in the event of an avalanche. "But it all depends on operational requirement as you cannot wait. There are problems with Army that way; they cannot wait for three days. I am very sorry to say that Army has lost its 14 brave soldiers. It is tragic news for the whole Army. Last year we had lost Lance Naik Hanumanthappa and nine others in Siachen. We have more than half of the Himalayas and our borders are always on Himalayas and we have to deploy there," he added. Col. Kumar said despite having such precautionary teams, it is difficult to for the patrol teams to ascertain the possibility of an avalanche "If there are layers of snow with first snow fall, second snow fall and so on and if water from the top layer percolates down, then this will make it all slippery. Avalanche can come from that also. Normally avalanche study teams dig in a pit to find that how many layers were there and what is the condition of those layers. But I am afraid patrols can't do that and if they are given a task to go from one place to another they have to do it," he said. Col. Kumar is known for the mountaineering reconnaissance expedition he undertook in Teram Kangri, Siachen Glacier and Saltoro Range for Indian Army in 1978 at the age of 45. Col. Kumar Kumar crossed seven mountain ranges-Pir Panjal Range, Himalayas, Zanskar, Ladakh, Saltoro, Karakoram and Agil-to give India the Siachen. (ANI)
Proposed legislation to shield government job applicants from public view until finalists are named will help attract a better talent pool, proponents told a North Dakota Senate committee Friday.

Senate Bill 2152, introduced by Sen. Lonnie Laffen, R-Grand Forks, says that if a public entity receives applications from three or more people for a vacant position, it must designate three or more finalists. Any records that could be used to identify an applicant would be confidential, and only records related to designated finalists would be open to the public.

The debate Friday was somewhat of a replay of a House committee hearing earlier in the week, when legislators discussed a similar proposal focused on higher education positions. Laffens bill, which attracted support from State Board of Higher Education Chairwoman Kathleen Neset, would apply to all government jobs across the state.

Jack McDonald, attorney for the North Dakota Newspaper Association and the North Dakota Broadcasters Association, said the Senate bill would mark a significant departure from the states open records laws. He added that it would create the opportunity for more meetings that are closed to the public.

From our standpoint, not much good happens from closed meetings, McDonald said during testimony before the Senate Political Subdivisions Committee.

But former Gov. Ed Schafer said many people arent applying for leadership positions in North Dakota because the states open records laws mean their current employer and community will find out theyre seeking a job elsewhere. He said taxpayers deserve the best managers working for them.

Schafer, who served as interim president of the University of North Dakota before Mark Kennedy took over last year, said there wasnt a sitting university president among the initial group of applicants for the UND job. Meanwhile, the University of Northern Iowa had five sitting presidents apply for its top position, he said.

Certainly it comes back to those open records laws, Schafer said.

McDonald rejected the argument that open records are discouraging people from applying. He said its natural for people to seek better job opportunities.

McDonald pointed to legislation that failed in the 2009 session that would have been focused on university presidents and the chancellor of the North Dakota University System.

I think that bill had a reasonable compromise in this situation, he said.
Taking forward Prime Minister Narendra Modi's assertion that the Congress Party is a 'sinking ship', the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday said the grand old party would sink its way to the bottom post the state assembly elections. "The Congress Party is clearly a sinking ship and post these assembly election results they would have probably sink their way to the bottom. I think it's imperative to understand that the people of this country have chosen Modi ji because of his sheer leadership ability, the fact that we are only talking about development and offering a stable government. Clearly, Badal ji will be the next Chief Minister of Punjab," BJP leader Shaina NC told ANI. Prime Minister Narendra Modi yesterday openly called the Congress a 'sinking boat', adding that it has lost its identity. Terming the grand old party 'a thing of the past', Prime Minister Modi said it is in a bad shape and nobody knows the colour, form and intention of this party. "In order to save itself, the Congress is resorting to 'give us anything at any cost'," said Prime Minister Modi while addressing a campaigning rally here. Blatantly hitting out at the Congress, the Prime Minister said that the party allied with the Left in West Bengal for its survival and then taking advantage of the Samajwadi Party (SP) feud, allied with it as well in Uttar Pradesh. "Congress, at first, badmouthed the SP in UP, but after seeing the conflict within the party, allied with them," said Prime Minister Modi. Drawing an analogy, Prime Minister Modi said that the Congress was struggling for power in a similar way as a fish does without water. Batting for Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal as the deserving chief of the state, Prime Minister Modi said, "Punjab wants to see Parkash Singh Badal as the Chief Minister again. He has always worked for Punjab." Showering praises on Badal, Prime Minister Modi said the former spent years in public life but never changed parties or compromised on ideals. "For Badal 'Sahab', what matters is the poor, the farmers, the villages," he added. With BJP-Akali Dal alliance for Punjab Assembly elections, Prime Minister Modi strongly campaigned for Badal, asserting that he is the right person to rule the state. (ANI)
BJP chief Amit Shah will release the manifesto in Lucknow.

The BJP poll manifesto will counter the ruling Samajwadi Party's free smart phone, pressure cooker, e-rickshaws and bicycle to girls.

Although there is less chance of the BJP going for announcement of some freebies, it will certainly have house for all and jobs for the youths in its manifesto.

Report suggests that the party would skip the Ram Temple issue this time.

The BJP earlier on January 22 promised a slew of populist schemes in its manifesto for Punjab Assembly polls like providing sugar and ghee at low prices, houses to the poor, land to Dalits and backwards, besides assuring Rs. five lakh assistance to the families affected by militancy.

Union Finanace Minister Arun Jaitley, while releasing the document in Jalandhar, said the BJP's manifesto is particularly aimed at improving the social infrastructure in Punjab, even as he slammed the Congress for its policies which he alleged paved way for militancy in Punjab in 1980s and termed its 2002-2007 tenure in power as "most dishonest and corrupt."

Noting that the SAD-BJP government in Punjab is already running 'atta-dal' scheme, the BJP manifesto has promised providing two kg ghee for Rs. 25 per kilo and five kg sugar at Rs. 10 a kilo to the blue card holders in the state.

Uttar Pradesh is set to have a seven-phase polling between February 11 and March 8. (ANI)
When the Chief Minister aspirants in Punjab and Uttarakhand are leading from the front and contesting the Assembly polls by seeking votes for themselves too, the situation in Uttar Pradesh is different where all the CM face leaders are avoiding to seek people's mandate for themselves. In Punjab, both the Congress and Akali-BJP CM aspirants are contesting the polls while Aam Admi Party(AAP) too have announced that a winning legislator would be their CM candidate. In Uttarakhand too, all CM candidates are in the fray. But in UP while BJP has no CM face, other aspirants for the coveted post were either afraid to face the people themselves or trying to avoid it by throwing different reasons. In 2012 Assembly polls too all the CM aspirants had not contested the Assembly polls either it was Kalyan Singh or Rajnath Singh of BJP, Mulayam or Akhilesh of the SP or Mayawati of BSP. In UP, it now seems evident that if SP-Congress alliance or Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) forms the government then the CM candidate would represent the upper house of the state legislature. However, in case of BJP the situation could be different as it can be anyone's game if the party gets the majority. But in BJP too some CM aspirants like Keshav Prasad Maurya, Dinesh Sharma or even Rajnath Singh were not contesting the Assembly polls. Samajwadi Party president and present Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav, who has thrown his hat in alliance with the Congress in this elections has now refused to contest in the Assembly polls. Akhilesh, who had never contested Assembly elections in UP though being elected to Lok Sabha several times, is presently member of the upper house of the UP legislature. Earlier, it was reported that Akhilesh could contest from Bidhuna seat in Auriyya later it shifted to any seat in Bundelkhand region. But the latest was from Sarojninagar seat in Lucknow district. However, Akhilesh refused to contest in any of the seats so far. SP spokesperson Rajendra Choudhury, while defending his president Akhilesh, told UNI here today that the CM has a big responsibility on his shoulder and by contesting the elections his focus would be divided. "There is no such big thing if a CM aspirant do not fight the assembly polls. A CM candidate should have a leadership quality and Akhileshjee qualify in it," he further added. SP supremo Mulayam Singh Yadav is the only SP leader and CM aspirant of UP in the recent past who had contested the assembly polls in 2007 when he was the CM of the state. Though, he won the polls from Bharthana seat in Etawah district in 2007, but his party lost the polls. He became the leader of the opposition in the UP Assembly when Ms Mayawati became the CM for the fourth time but in 2009 he shifted to Delhi after winning the Lok Sabha polls. Similarly, in BSP too, if the party win the Assembly polls then Mayawati would become the CM for the record fifth time but as she is the member of the Rajya Sabha hence she has to enter the legislature from back door. Mayawati too have never contested the Assembly polls so far. Rajnath Singh, present Union Home minister, was the last BJP CM in the state and he too contested from Haidergarh Assembly seat in Barabanki in 2001 through bypolls and refused to enter from legislative council. In 2002 Assembly, Mr Rajnath contested from Haidergarh and won but when BSP-BJP went for an alliance government, he resigned and shifted to Delhi and became union minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee cabinet. UP BJP general secretary Vijay Bahadur Pathak also said that BJP leadership always promotes leadership from the front rather than from the backdoor. "In 2014 Lok Sabha polls, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had contested from two seats, including Varanasi which is enough proof what BJP want," he said. Pathak further claimed that the last BJP CM Rajnath Singh too was the member the state assembly. Earlier Kalyan Singh too was also the member of the state assembly when he was the CM of UP. Congress CM face for UP polls and former Delhi CM Sheila Dikshit too had refused to contest the assembly polls in UP but now she has withdrawn from the race as Akhilesh Yadav has becone the CM face of the SP-Congress alliance. On the other hand Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) which is also contesting in a big way in UP polls have announced Jayant Singh, son of the President Ajit Singh as CM face. But Jayant too is not contesting the Assembly polls.UNI MB SHS 1101 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0329-1125875.Xml
The BJP's ambitious mission to end 'Vanavas' from the seat of power in Lucknow and capture power in country's most populous state is likely to hit a roadblock in the form of continued anguish of minority Muslims and significant lose of vote share among the Jat support base. Visit to various known Jat strongholds in and around temple city of Mathura suggest the Jats are likely to reflect their disgruntlement against the BJP - whom they preferred in 2014 Lok Sabha polls. "Jats have two major complaints against BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi - they are demonetisation and Modi Sarkar's "mishandling of Jat reservation"," Birendra Singh Chaudhary, a Jat sweet shop owner, told UNI. The same views have been endorsed by number of people - from cross sections of socio-economic strata including youths among the Jats. "The demonetisation will ensure 'barbaddi (hara kiri) for Modi. It was a totally misguided move. After surgical strike against terror launch pads in Pok, the BJP's popularity was at its peak. Note-bandi will do to Modi, what nas-bandi did to Indira Gandhi," rued another Jat voter - Subhas Singh, a former ex-serviceman. The Jats also feel let down by the BJP government both in the Centre and Haryana on reservation and the common refrain thus is they would vote against BJP this time. In Goverdhan assembly segment, many say the verdict is already clear in favour of RLD candidate Kunwar Narendra Singh, a local 'Raja' and a popular leader. More than the pure enthusiasm of Jat voters in favour of their candidates, the community elders feel the caste combination in Goverdhan and other assembly segments in the region - like Baldev, Manth, Chhata and Mathura would give the Jats upper hand to decide the electoral fate of the candidates and parties. "In Goverdhan assembly seat, for instance, we have 55,000 Jats and 80,000 Thakurs. These two groups coming together have ensured the chance of victory of RLD candidate," says Mr Than Singh Chaudhary, a local RLD leader. The fight here, he says will be confined between RLD and BSP even as BJP has fielded a Thakur candidate. "BJP was focusing for last few months to field Rajnath Singh's son Pankaj as a safe seat for Thakur. But they developed cold feet once our RLD nominee Kunwar Narendra Singh stood way ahead," he says. The caste consolidation of Jats against BJP, many say, would result in defeat of party's national secretary Shrikant Sharma. "The mood is in favour of RLD candidate Dr Ashok Agarwal though sitting Congress legislator Pradip Mathur will give a fight," says Deepak Mishra, a fruit seller. More UNI DEVN SV SB 1001 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0445-1125756.Xml
A day after the Shiv Sena announced its decision to go solo in upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) election, Union Minister of State for Social Justice and RPI-A chief Ramdas Athawale has expressed his party's displeasure over the snapping of 25-year-old alliance between the BJP and the Sena. Talking to mediapersons here yesterday, Mr Athawale said that his party Republican Party of India (RPI-A) will remain with the BJP in the upcoming election to ten Municipal Corporations as well as other local bodies election in the state. He demanded 40 to 45 seats for RPI in BMC election as against paltry 29 seats given to his party by BJP-Sena in 2012 election. ''In ten municipal corporation and 25 district council elections, RPI wants satisfactory seats. If they fail to get adequate number of seats, the party has decided to fight alone on that places,'' he added while refusing to have a truck with either the Congress or Nationalist Congress Party (NCP).UNI ST SS SB 0934 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0169-1125590.Xml
Over hundred workers, who became jobless due to confiscation of Rose Valley Park in Agartala last week by the state administration, met with Chief Minister Manik Sarkar at his official residence today and sought his intervention for their livelihood. The workers told Mr Sarkar that they were not involved in any corruption and Rose Valley had been providing them livelihood until it was shut down by the administration. They pointed out that the chief minister himself and a number of his ministers in several occasions encouraged them to work in the company. We were promised by the Rose Valley that the state government supports it and we had also seen it during our association with the company. Lots of appreciations and support were extended by the state government many a times ... and now the chief minister disowning his responsibility, stated Shibani Das, one of them. She said, We did not get any positive reply from the chief minister rather he replied to us that the same thing had happened in West Bengal as well. We are now in a critical stage with our children and ailing family members. We need alternative livelihood. Until the closure of the park we have been receiving regular payment and now the government put us in trouble. In a sudden move, the administration confiscated the Rose Valley park of Amtali on January 21 last and attached a huge movable and immovable asset of the Rose Valley.UNI BB AD1120 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0108-1125896.Xml
"The Central government must vacate all restrictions in banking transactions including withdrawal of money by the people," Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) central committee member Bijan Dhar said elaborating the issues of the agitation, which is a part of the party's nationwide stir.

"We are also demanding to compensate the revenue loss of the state governments due to demonetisation of old notes of Rs 1,000 and Rs 500. The Central government must announce compensation for those families whose members were due to the step of demonetisation," he added.

The other issues to be highlighted during the agitation include waiving of farmer loans, withdrawal of restrictions relating to cooperative banks, no forceful imposition of cashless transactions and continuation of public distribution system with the old method.

--IANS sc/ksk/bg

( 156 Words)

2017-01-28-12:20:06 (IANS)
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday lashed out at Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi for criticizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Reacting to Gandhi's description of Modi as dual speaker, BJP spokesman Nalin Kohli said, "Everytime Rahul Gandhiji speaks the issue of corruption. He ends up focusing again on the biggest scams in the history of India which took place under the Government of Manmohan Singh and Mrs. Sonia Gandhi which is the UPA from 2004-2014. He must also provide answers on that." Kohli further said, "He just can't bring issues just for the sake of raising it in a political valley. What's important is the conviction; because if he had any conviction on corruption, he must have answers on all the biggest scams that took place in the history of India under the Congress", as told to ANI. Gandhi, who is on a three days visit to Punjab, addressed four rallies in Majitha, Bhatinda, Jalandhar and Sangrur. He used these events to target the centre and PM Modi.(ANI)
'' Note-Kotha '' details her fight against this decision of the Central Government. This is one of her six books, released in the book fair this year.

Another major release is '' Singur Joyee '' , her book on the successful fight for farmers' rights in Singur, a fight that has become a milestone in the crusade for land rights worldwide.

'' Manusher Joy '2016 '' is based on Ms Banerjee's successful campaign for the 2016 Assembly election, which resulted in the Trinamool Congress Government winning the mandate for a second successful five-year term.

The other three books written by the Chief Minister and released at the 2017 Book Fair are ''Byaktityo'', a book of poems, ''Namanjoli Dwitiyo'', the second part of her book of names, and ''Khushbu''.

The Chief Minister has expressed her happiness at being able to have written six books, despite her busy schedule. With these six, Ms Banerjee has authored 69 books.UNI SJC KK

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South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem described the U.S. border with Mexico as a war zone last year when she sent dozens of state National Guard troops there. Noem said theyd be on the front lines of stopping drug smugglers and human traffickers. But newly released records from the National Guard show that in their two-month deployment, the South Dakota troops didnt seize any drugs and sometimes went days without encountering any migrants at all. Noem justified the deployment and a widely criticized private donation to fund as a state emergency because of drugs making their way across the southern border to South Dakota. But the records cast doubt on whether the deployment was effective in addressing that.
All India Forward Bloc (AIFB) today called for a secular and democratic platform at national level to expose BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government, which proved a ''total failure'' after coming to power at the Centre three years ago. Talking to mediapersons here, Adv G Devarajan, national Secretary of the AIFB, a partner in the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) in Kerala and Left Front at national level, said the BJP government came to power promising 'Achhe Din' (good days) proved to be a disaster as miseries of the people were increasing since assuming power at the Centre. The Centre had virtually failed to contain price rise of essentials, suicides of farmers were up, start-up projects which promised job opportunities and technology, remained in papers alone, he said. More over demonetisation process launched by the Union government in November last year promising to uncover black money, among others, has dampened the economy of the nation as a whole and there was no end in sight for the pain and suffering of the people. On Kerala, he said the Communist Party of India(Marxist)-led Left Democratic Front, which came to power in the state eight months ago promising ''ellam sariyakum'' (everything will be alright) also disappointed the people. One of its minister had to step down on allegation of nepotism soon after assuming office and another was facing Vigilance probe in corruption case, he said. Rationing system in the state came to a standstill after coming to power of LDF, which spearheaded many stirs for the purpose, he alleged. No adequate step was taken by the front to contain prices of essentials, fight between IAS and IPS lobbies were going on and it had surrendered before the management of the self-financing colleges in the state, he said. Against these anti-people policies of the Centre and the state government, the AIFB will stage a massive 'dharna' before the State Secretariat on February 22, he added.UNI PCH SHS 1335 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0329-1126049.Xml
In his message, the Prime Minister said, "Tributes to Lala Lajpat Rai on his birth anniversary. He was respected for his fearlessness, impeccable integrity and fight against injustice".

Lala Lajpat Rai was popularly known as Punjab Kesari. He was born on January 28,1865 in Dhudike, Punjab.

He actively participated in the Indian freedom struggle against the British rule.UNI RBE SV 1336

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A war-like situation prevailed in the Uttar Pradesh BJP Headquarters here today, when more than 1000 supporters of the party leaders, who were denied tickets, lay seize of the office, forcing the officials to lock the two gates. The venue for releasing BJP's UP poll manifesto by national president Amit Shah in the state capital, had already been shifted from the state headquarters to the Indira Gandhi Pratishthan in Gomti Nagar area, to save the situation. Several senior party leaders and Union Ministers are camping in the state capital since yesterday for the release of the manifesto. The supporters of the annoyed BJP leaders were staging protest for the past couple of days at the state party office, but today they took the extreme step to block the entry of the state party office bearers. Later, the office security locked the two gates of the party office, in which some protesting supporters remained inside, while most of them were outside. Media too had to jump the gates to enter the office. LA large contingent of police force have been deployed there to prevent any untoward incident. Two supporters of the candidates, who were denied tickets, even tried to self-immolate. However, timely intervention of police saved their lives. The BJP supporters from Isauli, Lamhua assembly segments of Sultanpur, along with supporters form Hamipur and Zahurabad were among those who were protesting in the BJP office. Supporters of one of the BJP leader from Lambhua seat in Sultanpur had sent 10,000 signatures supporting removal of the BJP candidate Devmuni Dubey from the seat. BJP was witnessing large scale protest throughout the state following denial of tickets to several aspirants. Several leaders of eastern UP are also opposing the party's alliance with Bharat Samaj Party and Apna Dal. Some political experts said that BJP has given majority of the tickets to the backwards and even allied with the parties like Bharat Samaj Party and Apna Dal, who holds the key to the backward politics, which was the main reason for the protest. However, UP BJP president Keshav Prasad Maurya admitted that the protest is a natural outburst by the leaders. " But when there are 15-30 candidates in each of the 403 Assembly seats in UP, you cannot satisfy everyone. We will certainly look into the demands of the leaders and will pacify them," he added.UNI MB RJ SHK 1535 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0196-1126092.Xml
Continuing his frontal attack on Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal's family, Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi on Saturday said his son and Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal was an "icon of corruption". "Sukhbir Badal is an icon of corruption. The biggest corruption in any state of the country is occurring in Punjab," Rahul said at a rally in support of Congress candidate Ravneet Singh Bittu. Bittu, a Congress MP from Ludhiana, is pitted against Sukhbir Badal from Jalalabad assembly seat for the February 4 assembly elections. Questioning Prime Minister Narendra Modi's claims of fighting corruption, Rahul said: "Modi should explain why is he supporting Sukhbir if he is fighting corruption?" Rahul said Sukhbir Badal, who is also President of the ruling Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) which has an alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party in the state since 2007, and the SAD had deviated from the ideology of Sikhism's founder, Guru Nanak Dev. "Sukhbir Badal claims he is protecting the Sikh religion and ideology of Guru Nanak Dev. But Sukhbir and the Akali Dal say everything is theirs," the Congress leader said. He said the Badal family had monopolised all businesses in the state, including transport, cable TV and mining etc., and were getting commission from liquor trade. "The Badals have finished all industry in Punjab. They don't allow people from other countries and states to invest and start industry here. Industry has moved to other states and Punjab youths are rendered jobless," Rahul said. He said the youths were being denied government jobs by the Badal government. The Congress Vice-President cautioned people against supporting the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of Arvind Kejriwal. "Punjab needs a Chief Minister from Punjab. (Arvind) Kejriwal runs Delhi like a dictator," he said. He reiterated that Congress Punjab unit chief Amarinder Singh would again be the Chief Minister if the party returns to power in Punjab. On Friday too, Rahul Gandhi had slammed Modi as well the Akali Dal on the corruption issue. "Modi talks of corruption and religion at various places. But how can he stand with the corrupt Akali Dal leaders and talk of fighting corruption?" Gandhi had said at an election rally in Akali stronghold Majitha in Amritsar district. Majitha is represented in the assembly by Revenue Minister Bikram Singh Majithia, who is a brother-in-law of Sukhbir Badal and brother of Union Minister Harsimrat Kaur. The 117-member assembly will go to polls on February 4. The counting of votes will be held on March 11. The main contest is between the ruling SAD-BJP alliance, the Congress and the AAP. --IANS js/tsb/vm ( 444 Words) 2017-01-28-16:14:09 (IANS)
While praising BJP leader Manohar Parrikar for being a strong Defence Minister, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday avoided commenting on his possible return to state politics. Parrikar, the former Goa chief minister, was elevated to the central government as Defence Minister in 2014, but in the recent past Union minister for Road Transport, Highways and Shipping Nitin Gadkari as well as BJP president Amit Shah during the poll speeches in Goa, have hinted at the possible return of Parrikar to the state politics after the February 4, state assembly polls. Modi, during his poll rally in Panaji skipped the issue altogether and praised Parrikar as a strong Defence Minister, in the context of the surgical strikes across the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir in September in the wake of a Pakistani attack on the Uri military station. "I thank Goa for giving a strong Defence Minister. The whole world is discussing surgical strikes. People are still studying how it happened. How did your jawans reach there," Modi said it was being asked. --IANS maya/ruwa/vm ( 188 Words) 2017-01-28-19:14:09 (IANS)
BJP President Amit Shah on Saturday raked up the 'triple talaq' issue ahead of the Uttar Pradesh assembly elections and said if the party wins, it will seek the opinion of the state's Muslim women and approach the Supreme Court accordingly. "If voted to power, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will seek the opinion of Muslim women in Uttar Pradesh on the triple 'talaq' issue, which is going on in the Supreme Court," Shah said, while releasing his party's manifesto for the assembly polls here. The state will witness seven phased election from February 11 to March 8. "And on the basis of that opinion, the BJP government in the state will then approach the Supreme Court," Shah added. The Allahabad High Court had in December last year termed triple talaq as "cruelty against Muslim women" and said no "Personal Law Board" was above the Constitution. The court had observed that Islamic law was being wrongly interpreted. Triple talaq is interpreted as the Islamic practice of divorcing a woman by uttering the word 'talaq' thrice. Most Muslim countries do not approve of it. The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) had said the decision of the high court was "not in line with the Shariyat", but the concept of triple talaq has come under attack from Muslim women activists. Shah's mention of triple talaq during BJP's manifesto release is being seen as an indication that the party will rake up the issue during its election campaign in the state. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also talked about triple talaq at a rally in Uttar Pradesh in October and said the government and the society should ensure justice to Muslim women and not let their lives be destroyed by triple talaq. Modi had also urged people not to make triple talaq a Hindu-Muslim issue and slammed political parties who he said were politicising the issue. --IANS aks/ps/rn/vm ( 333 Words) 2017-01-28-19:14:10 (IANS)
Congress Vice-President Rahul Gandhi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav would jointly address a press conference here on Sunday after which they will take out a road show, a minister said. "The events would be to show we are coming together and display ourselves as a united force for the state assembly elections," Cabinet Minister in the Uttar Pradesh government and Samajwadi Party (SP) spokesman Rajendra Chowdhary said. The roadshow will begin from the GPO Park, near the Gandhi state, will go through the Mayfair roundabout to Lalbagh, Novelty roundabout and then weave its way to Qaiserbagh through Muslim dominated areas like Aminabad and old city. The Gandhi scion and the National President of the Samajwadi Party will then go to Nakkhas, Chowk, Ghantaghar where the road show will conclude. Adequate security arrangements are being made for the high-profile road show. This would be the first outing of the two leaders after the alliance between the Congress and the Samajwadi Party was announced. The Congress is contesting 105 seats while the ruling Samajwadi Party is contesting 298 seats. Uttar Pradesh will be voting for a new state assembly in a seven-phase election, voting for which begins on February 11 and concludes on March 8. --IANS md/lok/vm ( 221 Words) 2017-01-28-19:14:13 (IANS)
The main opposition party, BJP today accused Chief Minister Nitish Kumar of compromising with law and order situation in the state under the influence of his coalition partners-RJD and Congress. State BJP spokesperson and former MLA Sanjay Tiger told newspersons here the law and order situation had hit a new low under the influence of his coalition partners. He said even people were not safe in the state capital, becoming victims of trigger-happy criminals. He said incidents of murder, attempt to murder, loot and rape were being reported from across the state on a regular basis. Reacting sharply to BJP's allegation, JD (U) spokesperson Sanjay Singh said chief minister was committed to maintaining rule of law in the state and his governance was known for better law and order situation. He said sporadic criminals incidents could be reported but criminals were also being nabbed without any delay. UNI DH RN 1954 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0311-1126859.Xml
The protesting Congressmen, led by Haryana Pradesh Congress Committee Vice President Nirmal Singh, will undertake a three-day yatra on foot and reach Chandigarh to hand over a memorandum to Haryana Governor Hanuman Singh Solanki, urging him to dismiss state Health Minister Anil Vij for passing ugly remarks against the Father of the Nation.

The agitators also took out a protest procession and burnt the effigy of Mr Vij. The Dandi marchers would made halt at the town of Lalru and Dera Bassi, falling on way and campaign against the BJP.

On their entry at the Punjab border today, police there stopped them and took the lathis, on which the national flags were hoisted and let them proceed with flags.

Mr Vij, however, said the Congress was doing hollow politics for their survival. No one had taken notice of their agitation, the Cabinet Minister added.

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Secretary of Information and Broadcasting Ministry, Ajay Mittal, today said the North East Film Festival (NEFF), 'Fragrances from the North East' served as a unique window to the films, food, culture and handicrafts diversity of North East and enabled the cultural amalgamation of the region with the rest of the country. By organising the current edition of the festival at Pune, the objective was to sensitise people from other regions to the culture of the North East as envisaged in the "Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat" programme of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Mr Mittal stated while delivering his address at the inaugural ceremony of the festival at National Film Archive of India (NFAI), Pune. He said, a decision had now been taken to organise the festival in different cities every year as part of the "Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat" vision. Highlighting some of the initiatives taken by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to promote cinema in the North East, Mr Mittal said the focus has been to provide multiple platforms through workshops, film festivals, interactive sessions and special screenings at IFFI focusing on the region. As part of the new initiative, the Ministry sponsored 10 film makers from the North East for the first time to attend the IFFI in Goa. The objective was to give an opportunity to young and emerging film makers from the region to interact with the foreign delegates attending IFFI and also explore collaborations with international film production houses, ensuring wider reach and audience for NE films. The Directorate of Film Festivals organised a special session on the North East film industry at the Indywood Film Carnival in Hyderabad. It also took the initiative to organise the first edition of the IFFI chapter of North East in Imphal in December 2016 in partnership with Manipur Film Development Corporation. Mr Mittal said that the National Film Awards and Indian Panorama over the years had been discovering and honouring the talents from the North East, specially in languages which were not specified other than the Schedule VIII of the Constitution. Some of the films had won accolades in the International Film Festivals all over the world. The Indian Panorama had eight films selected from the North East region this year.During his address, the Secretary complimented the students of Pune from the North East region who had taken the pain and efforts to participate in the three-day festival by showcasing the culture and cuisine of the region. Taking into account the enthusiastic response from the city, Mr Mittal assured that the festival and such screenings would be organised henceforth regularly in Pune.The opening film for this festival "Kothanodi" by debut director Bhaskar Hazarika has wowed the international audience with its poetic depiction of folk stories. The festival is also screening "Loktak Lairambi" which is part of the Indian Panorama selection. The film has already been making waves in the International film circuit after being premiered in Busan and has now been selected for forthcoming Berlin film festival. The three-day festival is being held at NFAI campus, from 28th to 30th January.UNI AR SNU 2018 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0092-1126884.Xml
The Narendra Modi government's bold decision of demonetisation and surgical strikes have struck hard at the root of Pakistan-sponsored terror bringing down hawala funding by 55 per cent and terror funding by 60 per cent, Minister of State in the PMO Jitendra Singh said here today. There should be no confusion about Modi government's policy towards Pakistan and its stand on Kashmir, which is "no talks with terror and Kashmir's status of integral part of India was no where an issue and the issue was how to retrieve PoK from Pak". "In just two-and-a-half year, the government had taken these two bold steps, which needs lots of conviction, but the Prime Minister took these decisions as for him, it is the country that is important and not the government," the Minister said. He said the government's demonetisation decision was supported by the people of the country except for some political parties who were opposing it. "It was a huge risk that the government had taken and the opposition were questioning because it had hit their Achilles heel," he added. Dr Singh said the country had a Prime Minister who was capable of meeting the expectations of the people and Mr Modi had proved it and in the next remaining periods more would happen. The Minister said on several occasions and platforms the Prime Minister had said that there was nothing called a good or a bad terrorist. "A terrorist is a terrorist". Terming Pakistan a "failed state", the Minister said the "country needs to be tackled at multiple levels -- diplomatically, militarily and social level". He said Pakistan was the epicentre of terrorism and the capital of human rights violations and the biggest human rights violation in the sub continent was being carried out in Balochistan. He said this government's stand is that there should be no compromise with terrorism, no compromise with the sovereignty of Indian Republic and no compromise with the dignity of the security forces. Dr Singh was speaking at an event on "Countering Pakistan State Terror: Challenges and Way Forward" organised by the Global Counter Terrorism Council (GCTC).UNI RBE AE SHK CJ NS2020 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0400-1126900.Xml
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) ideologue and former spokesman MG Vaidya today took a dig at Shiv Sena for its decision to end over two-decade-old alliance with BJP in civic polls across the state."How come after being in power for 25 years it has realised that alliance has been useless and that too just before the polls?" he quipped.While interacting with a section of media, Mr Vaidya remarked that if BJP and Shiv Sena contest the civic pollsseparately, it would only benefit the Congress and NCP.Mr Vaidya further said that the Government would not be stable if Shiv Sena withdrew its support to the state Government.Fearing mid-term polls in the state considering an unstable government if NCP offers support to BJP then how to deny, will be a question before the party leadership, he said. Soon after breaking the alliance, BJP and Shiv Sena leaders are leaving no stone unturned to scoff at each other.UNI PK SS NP SNU 2241 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0169-1126898.Xml
US President Donald Trump has signed two executive actions including one limiting the flow of refugees into the US by instituting what the President has called "extreme vetting" of immigrants. "I am establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America," Trump said on Friday during the signing at the Pentagon after the swearing-in of Defense Secretary James Mattis, CNN reported. "We don't want them here," the president said. Titled "Protection Of The Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry Into The United States," the executive order would start to make good on Trump's promise to tighten borders and halt certain refugees from entering the US. He added, "We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas. We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people." At the Pentagon, Trump met privately for about an hour with Mattis, Vice President Mike Pence, Security Adviser Mike Flynn and military officials and they discussed accelerating the defeat of IS, confronting global threats like North Korea, military readiness and the National Guard, a Defense official told CNN. The meeting took place in "the tank," secure room where the Joint Chiefs meet. Trump also signed a second executive action on Friday that would spur military spending and, as Trump said, "begin the great rebuilding of the Armed Services of the US." The President added that the executive action instructs Mattis to begin "developing a plan for new planes, new ships, new resources and new tools for our men and women in uniform." According to drafts of the order obtained by CNN, the order bars all persons from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia or Yemen from entering the US for 30 days and suspends the US Refugee Admissions Program for 120 days until it is reinstated "only for nationals of countries for whom" members of Trump's Cabinet deem can be properly vetted. The total number of refugees admitted into the US would also be capped during the 2017 fiscal year at 50,000, down more than half from the current level of 110,000. Democrats blasted Trump's move -- despite not having the text of the documents -- arguing that while it may not ban all Muslims from entering the US, it still is discriminatory. "Make no mistake -- this is a Muslim ban," Sen. Kamala Harris, a Democrat from California, said in a statement. "Tears are running down the cheeks of the Statue of Liberty tonight as a grand tradition of America, welcoming immigrants, that has existed since America was founded has been stomped upon," Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a statement. "Taking in immigrants and refugees is not only humanitarian but has also boosted our economy and created jobs decade after decade. This is one of the most backward and nasty executive orders that the president has issued." The American Civil Liberties Union also called Trump's action "just a euphemism for discrimination against Muslims." The White House has not yet released the official text of the executive actions. --IANS pgh/ ( 531 Words) 2017-01-28-05:48:06 (IANS)
British Prime Minister Theresa May has said that U.S. President Donald Trump will make a state visit to the United Kingdom as he accepted an invitation conveyed from Queen Elizabeth for a visit later this year. Speaking at the White House, May congratulated Trump on his victory and said she had secured an assurance of U.S. support for NATO and made early progress on discussions about a US-UK trade deal, reports the CNN. Meanwhile, Trump said he was honoured that May had agreed to be the first foreign leader to visit after his inauguration and predicted that they would build a strong partnership. He said that the relationship between the two countries was a "force for peace," adding that a free and independent Britain was a "blessing to the world." Further, May said that she is willing to voice her differences with the US administration apparently, potential disagreements about support for sanctions against Russia in the wake of its annexation of Crimea from Ukraine. While Trump said that it was "too early" to talk about sanctions, he re-stated his hope for a good relationship with Russia -- as good, he said, as with the UK. May, who stressed the importance of international institutions in a speech to Republican leaders Thursday, said that Trump was "100% in favor of NATO." (ANI)
Russian President Vladimir Putin will speak to his U.S. counterpart Donald Trump via telephone on Saturday in their first conversation since the latter took office. This comes as recently, top Trump advisor Kellyanne Conway said that removing U.S. sanctions on Russia is "under consideration", reports the Guardian. Trump has been steadfast in his praise for Putin and Russia and ascended to the presidency amid allegations of Russian interference in the election campaign. He has hinted he could look at removing sanctions on Russia, and has suggested the U.S. and Russia could work together in Syria, where Russia is allied with the Syrian president, Bashar al-Assad. Putin's spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, said the Russian President would congratulate Trump on taking office and would launch a discussion on the current bilateral relationship. He said it was unlikely there would be specific agreements reached in the initial call. Peskov said he was unaware of any plans to lift the sanctions. Conway, a White House senior aide, told This Morning on CBS that Trump and Putin were likely to discuss efforts to combat terrorism. "I assume they will discuss, in the interests of their respective countries, how to come together and work together on issues where you can find common ground and where these two nations could maybe defeat radical Islamic terrorism," she said. Reportedly, Trump is also due to speak with German chancellor Angela Merkel on Saturday. (ANI)
Two Florida ports have canceled plans to sign cooperation pacts with Communist-ruled Cuba after state Governor Rick Scott threatened to cancel their funding if they did business with the "Cuban dictatorship."The news comes as Cuba watchers are looking closely for signs of how the United States' fragile detente with Cuba will fare under President Donald Trump.Trump has threatened to scrap moves to normalize relations, one of former President Barack Obama's signature foreign policy initiatives, if he doesn't get "a better deal.""Disappointed some (Florida ports) would enter into any agreement with Cuban dictatorship," Scott wrote on Twitter on Wednesday. "I will recommend restricting state funds for ports that work with Cuba in my budget.Port authorities along the US Southern coast are strong proponents of increased trade and travel with Cuba, and some have expressed interest in using Mariel, located on the northwest coast of the Caribbean island, as a transshipment hub.The Ports of Everglades and Palm Beach had been planning to sign agreements with Cuba during the visit of a Cuban trade delegation this week but said they decided to withdraw the deals.Port of Everglades spokeswoman Ellen Kennedy said this move would not impact trade with Cuba, which was conducted by tenants rather than the ports themselves.One of Port Everglades' tenants, Crowley Maritime Corporation, has been exporting US-made goods including poultry and medicine to Cuba since obtaining a license to do so from the Office of Foreign Asset Control in late 2001.On Tuesday, Crowley also imported two containers of charcoal from Cuba, the first direct legal import from Cuba to the United States in more than half a century.Kennedy said the memorandum of understanding had been designed to be a "good will gesture" to form a strong alliance with Cuban ports.Cuba and the United States have restored diplomatic ties and signed various cooperation agreements since Obama agreed with Cuban President Raul Castro in December 2014 to work to normalize relations.Obama, a Democrat, used executive orders to circumvent the longstanding US trade embargo on Cuba and ease some restrictions on travel and business. The embargo can only be lifted by the US Congress, which is controlled by Republicans.Trump, who can reverse Obama's executive orders, has threatened to end the detente if Cuba does not make further political and other concessions, although he has not specified what these should be. REUTERS AKC 0420 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0432-1125815.Xml
Iraqis who say their lives are in danger because they worked with the US government in Iraq fear their chances of finding refuge in the United States may vanish under a new order signed by President Donald Trump.Yesterday The order temporarily suspends the United States' main refugee program and halts visas being issued to citizens of several predominantly Muslim countries, including Iraq. It is expected to affect two programs US lawmakers created a few years after the 2003 invasion of Iraq to help the tens of thousands of Iraqis who risked their lives helping Americans.Trump says the order is necessary to prevent Islamist militants from coming to the United States posing as refugees, but refugee advocacy groups say the lengthy screening of applicants by multiple US agencies makes this fear unfounded.Iraqis coming to the United States under the Special Immigrant Visa program for Iraqis, which stopped accepting new applications in 2014, or the ongoing Direct Access Program for US-Affiliated Iraqis are losing hope of ever getting out."Mr Trump, the new president, killed our dreams," said one Baghdad man whose wife worked for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) as a bookkeeper."I don't have any hope to go to the United States," he said in a telephone interview, speaking on condition of anonymity for fear of retribution by Iraq's Sunni and Shia militant groups and also of unfavorable treatment by the Trump administration.More than 7,000 Iraqis, many of them interpreters for the US military, have resettled in the United States under the Special Immigrant Visa program since 2008, while another 500 or so are still being processed, according to State Department figures. Another 58,000 Iraqis were awaiting interviews under the Direct Access program, according to the International Refugee Assistance Project. Tens of thousands have already arrived under the second program, but no recent total was available."A lot of translators were trying to get the hell out of there because they had a mark on their head for working with US forces," Allen Vaught, a former US Army captain who went to Fallujah in western Iraq in 2003, said in a telephone interview. "They're viewed as collaborators."He fears the order would endanger American troops by making it harder to recruit local support in war zones, a belief echoed by several advocacy groups working on behalf of America's Iraqi employees.While in Iraq, Vaught employed five local interpreters who initially earned 5 a week dollars traveling with troops, sometimes without weapons or armor. He helped two of the interpreters come to the United States as refugees with their families, putting them up initially in his home in Dallas, Texas. Another two were executed by militia groups, he said.The fifth was still mired in the refugee screening process, which can last months or years even after the initial interview. Vaught had expected to also welcome him into his home this year before he had seen a draft of Trump's order."This executive order is based on ignorance and fear," he said. "And you do not lead a country with ignorance and fear."IRAQIS STRANDEDIn Baghdad, the Iraqi man waiting for a visa recalled US, soldiers had laughed at his concerns, telling him the United States is too big a democracy to be changed on "the decision of one person like Trump," he said. But he now wonders if the soldiers were right.In 2013, a USAID official encouraged his family to apply as refugees under the Direct Access program. He checked in every week or so, but is still waiting word on an appointment at the US consulate for the necessary interview.The same year he filed his application, he was shot in the head while driving to work, hospitalizing him for a month and leaving him deaf in one ear. He connected that to the threats that had often flashed as text messages on his cellphone, sent by Islamist militants angered by his wife's work for USAID.Others in Iraq remained hopeful they would eventually get out.An Iraqi man who worked for a US defense contractor and later alongside US troops as a mid-ranking Iraqi Army officer, recalled his excitement at getting the phone call a few weeks ago telling him that his family had an interview appointment at the US consulate after two years and four applications.He was hopeful it would still take place in mid-February, believing that American officials would be concerned about the threats to his family. He was unaware that the US Department of Homeland Security on Wednesday temporarily halted trips by staff to interview applicants."I believe this is politics, things you hear on the news," he told Reuters by phone from Baghad on condition of anonymity. "I don't think they would prevent Iraqis coming to America." REUTERS AKC 0816 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0432-1125826.Xml
The Speaker of Pakistan's National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq has said that no proceeding will be conducted in the house unless a decision by the parliamentary leaders is made on the scuffle that happened brawl between lawmakers from the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) and the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) yesterday. The Speaker adjourned the proceedings for some time prior to his meeting with the parliamentary leaders to discuss the unpleasant incident which happened on the floor of house. Sadiq told the house later that more time was needed to reach a decision and adjourned it to meet again on Monday at 4PM, reports the Dawn. He also offered to resign if the opposition had objections against him. Sadiq said lawmakers had expressed their full confidence in him. He said lawmakers had described the incident to be unfortunate and not good for the democracy and sanctity of parliament. The speaker urged the lawmakers to stop the practice of trading allegations and shouting slogans in the house. Sadiq had also asked for the footage of the incident but disclosed that it was not played during the meeting. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Friday moved a privilege motion in the National Assembly against the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) after chaos broke out in the lower house between the lawmakers of both parties. (ANI)
France and Germany voiced disquiet today over US President Donald Trump's decision to limit immigration and refugees from some Muslim countries, and they reaffirmed a firm line on Russian sanctions.Speaking at a joint news conference in Paris with his German counterpart Sigmar Gabriel, French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault said many of Trump's decisions worried the two US allies, including new immigration restrictions.Trump yesterday signed an executive order that will curb immigration and refugees from some Muslim-majority countries and he separately said he wanted the United States to give priority to Syrian Christians fleeing the civil war there."This can only worry us, but there are many subjects that worry us," Ayrault said, adding that he would soon invite his future American counterpart Rex Tillerson to Paris to explain Europe's interests, values and vision of the world."Welcoming refugees who flee war and oppression is part of our duty," Ayrault said.Germany has taken in more than one million refugees and migrants, mainly from the Middle East, since 2015.Although traditionally open to asylum seekers, France has taken in far fewer refugees than Germany since the migrant crisis erupted. Some in the French government, mostly ex-premier Manuel Valls, criticising Berlin's open-door policy, as has Trump."The United States is a country where Christian traditions have an important meaning. Loving your neighbour is a major Christian value, and that includes helping people," said Germany's Gabriel, who was on his first trip abroad since his nomination as foreign minister."I think that is what unites us in the West, and I think that is what we want to make clear to the Americans."The two countries also reiterated their position on Russian sanctions, saying they could only be lifted if progress was made in the peace process for eastern Ukraine, where a pro-Russian separatist insurgency began in 2014.They joined British Prime Minister Theresa May in cautioning Trump against premature moves on the issue."Let's not forget there was a war, that Russia sought to take over parts of Ukraine," Ayrault said.Trump said yesterday that he was only in the early stages of considering whether to lift US sanctions on Russia, but insisted he wanted to follow through on his campaign pledge to pursue better relations with Russia.The French and German ministers also said the United Nations remained the best framework to lead peace talks about Syria in the aftermath of Russian-led efforts in the Kazakh capital Astana that some diplomats say might undermine the UN process.Separately, Germany and France are also continuing to work on creating a joint tactical airlift pool of Lockheed Martin Corp C-130J military transport planes, a spokesman for the German defence ministry said today.He could not confirm a report in Der Spiegel newsmagazine that the two countries expected to complete work on the deal and present it to US Defense Secretary James Mattis at a meeting of NATO defence ministers in Brussels next month.The magazine said German Defence Minister Ursula von der Leyen hoped to present the joint airlift as evidence of Germany's willingness to contribute more to NATO.Trump has criticised many European countries for not meeting a NATO target of spending 2 percent of gross domestic product on defence. REUTERS SDR AN1843 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0431-1126678.Xml
Little Havana, the historic heart of Miami's large Cuban exile community, has become an officially designated national treasure of the US, it was announced here. The honour was proclaimed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation at a ceremony on Friday attended by Miami Mayor Tomas Regalado, Efe news reported. "Little Havana has been the destination for hundreds of thousands of Latin American immigrants since the 1960s seeking the promise of a new life in America," the Cuban-born Regalado said, calling the neighbourhood a southern counterpart of New York's Ellis Island, where millions of new arrivals to the US were processed. Stephanie Meeks, president and CEO of the National Trust, stressed that Little Havana continues to be "a thriving, entirely unique place that thousands of people currently call home". The National Trust is working with partners in the area to ensure that Little Havana "remains a healthy, vital and affordable urban neighbourhood", Meeks said. Little Havana occupies only 7 per cent of the surface area of Miami city, yet it accounts for nearly 20 per cent of rental units and more than a quarter of those that go for less than $1,000 a month, according to figures from the National Trust. Meeks spoke of a need to protect Little Havana from some of the negative outcomes that often accompany urban redevelopment, such as the destruction of historic buildings and the displacement of existing residents. --IANS ksk/vm ( 247 Words) 2017-01-28-19:14:12 (IANS)
Arabs and Iranians planning trips to the United States described new U.S. counter-terrorism travel curbs as insulting and discriminatory on Saturday as five Iraqis and a Yemeni were stopped from boarding a New York-bound flight in Cairo.In the Muslim-majority countries affected by the restrictions, some would-be travellers planning family visits, work trips or seeking a new life away from war said they no longer wanted to go to the United States."It's not fair and it's not right to portray huge groups of Arabs and Muslims as possible terrorists," Najeed Haidari, a Yemeni-American security manager for an oil company in Yemen, told Reuters a day after U.S. President Donald Trump put a four-month hold on refugee arrivals and temporarily barred travellers from war-torn Syria and six other mainly Muslim nations."This is a stupid, terrible decision which will hurt the American people more than us or anybody else, because it shows that this president can't manage people, politics or global relationships," Haidari added.In the most sweeping use of his presidential powers since taking office a week ago, Trump signed an executive order on Friday to pause the entry of travellers from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen for at least 90 days.He said separately that he wanted the United States to give priority to Syrian Christians fleeing the civil war there.The travel curbs took effect immediately, causing havoc and confusion for would-be travellers with passports from the seven countries.UNFAIR DECISIONSources at Cairo airport said the five Iraqi passengers and one Yemeni, arriving in transit to Cairo airport, were stopped and re-directed to flights headed for their home countries despite holding valid visas.Fariba, an Iranian-American who declined to give her family name and lives in New Jersey, said her parents would not be able to fulfil plans to visit her to celebrate the Iranian New Year in March."This is an unfair decision. What is our sin? What have we done to deserve such a ban? Iranians have never been involved in terrorist acts in the USA," she said."This ban will ruin our lives. Thank you Mr. President. Are you making America great by hurting innocent people?"Some people planning U.S. travel said the curbs would harm their careers. Others feared for the safety of their families.In Baghdad, Bayan Adil, a doctor working in the Iraqi Health Ministry who applied for a U.S. visa to attend a medical seminar, said Iraqi academics should visit Europe instead of the United States, where they were no longer welcome."Trump's decision is unfortunately a humiliating insult not only for us as academics but for all Iraqis," she said.Her comments were echoed by Abd Al-Jafar, a 43-year-old university professor in the Sudanese capital of Khartoum, who said he had been trying to travel to the United States for doctoral studies."This decision, if implemented, will be a disaster," he said. "I have work in Sudan and have no desire to emigrate to the U.S., just to study there. This decision is illogical."In Beirut, Joumana Ghazi Chehade, 34, a refugee from Yarmouk in Syria living in the Lebanese capital's Burj al-Barajneh camp, said the decision would "destroy a lot of people.""It's our right to fear for our children's lives. This decision is wrong. Of course we're not going to go blow anything up ... All we are asking for is security and freedom."Qatar Airways advised passengers bound for the United States from the seven newly banned countries that they needed to have either a U.S. green card or a diplomatic visa. reuetrs cj NS2116 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0400-1126972.Xml
NAIROBI, Jan. 27 (Xinhua) -- Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS) on Friday appealed for 10 million U.S. dollars to help tackle ravaging drought in several parts of the East African nation.

Kenya Red Cross Society Secretary-General Abbas Gullet told a news conference in Nairobi that the funds will help up to 340,786 people facing starvation in 13 counties.

"KRCS is issuing a revised Drought Appeal to reach up to 340,786 people, in 13 counties, at an amount of 10 million dollars. The assistance requested will focus on interventions in five key areas," Gullet said.

According to a specialized food security agency, FEWS NET, the situation is likely to deteriorate, rendering 2.4 million people food insecure by April if no urgent and appropriate action is taken.

"The effects of the drought are escalating. In December 2016, we had eight counties at the alarm stage and in less than a month since then, the number of counties has risen to 12. This should worry us all," said Gullet.

It is expected that some of these counties will slide into the emergency phase of the drought in the coming weeks.

The late onset and inadequate short rains - between October and December 2016 - has led to poor pasture and inadequate water resources in pastoral areas, which has further resulted in unseasonal migration in areas like south coastal counties that have in the past served as pasture reserve areas have been severely affected, straining the situation further.

According to the KRCS, livestock body conditions and milk productivity have continued to deteriorate in parts of the country.

Drought related livestock deaths are on the rise, negatively impacting on livestock farmers' income and access to animal products.

"We have been working with the Red Cross Movement partners, national and county governments, the corporate sector and local partners to mitigate the situation. However, more support is needed, hence, our decision to appeal to Kenyans for support," added Gullet.

The funds raised will be distributed to the worst-affected families and communities, through a Cash Transfers Programme (CTP) that empowers them financially to meet their immediate food, non-food, and income needs.

Gullet said KRCS is also carrying out a livestock destocking programme in pastoralist areas in order to cushion livestock farmers from massive livestock losses.

"So far, 882 goats and sheep and 651 2 heads of cattle have been purchased, inspected, slaughtered and distributed to vulnerable families in Tana River and Garissa (Ijara) counties," he said.

Gullet said the aim is to remove animals whose body condition is worsening, before they lose their value, die or pose a public health risk.

The animals are slaughtered and the products distributed to schools and to orphans, people living with disability, the elderly and the chronically ill.

KRCS has also distributed a total of 280 metric tons of assorted food to 15,954 people in four counties. Enditem
LONDON, Jan. 27 (Xinhua) -- As British Prime Minister Theresa May becomes the first foreign leader to meet new U.S. President Donald Trump, Britain's ties with the U.S. is set to prosper under the Trump presidency, British experts have said.

"That Trump is meeting May is significant," Robert Busby, senior lecturer in politics and an expert on American politics with Liverpool Hope University, said in an interview with Xinhua.

Such a special relationship, however, could become more of an illusion if Trump forges a new relationship with Russia or if he acts in a way alien to British public and political opinion,

Busby said he expects the British-U.S. ties to prosper following two terms of Barack Obama in the White House.

"Trump was supportive of Brexit and saw that movement as being indicative of a greater anti-globalism concern among voters, which could be replicated in the U.S.," he said.

The reinforcement of close relations with Britain, he said, would also resurrect the Reagan-Thatcher memories that were fondly remembered by U.S. Republicans in particular.

Britain and the U.S. had enjoyed close relations in the 1980s, under the leadership of Margaret Thatcher and Ronald Reagon.

"There are perceptions that Britain may become isolated after Brexit. (But) the message from Trump is that there are old relationships that can be rediscovered," Busby said.

Trump's meetings with Nigel Farage, former leader of British political party UKIP, and now May are testament to a sympathy for British ideas and legacies, he said.

Busby said while there are opportunities for Britain following Brexit with a sympathetic president in place, there may be greater problems in getting concrete actions, particularly in the short term.

"The Brexit process, as has been shown, will be a slow and arduous procedure," he said.

May has indicated that Britain will trigger Article 50, the formal procedure by which an EU member state notifies the European Council that it intends to leave the block, by the end of March.

Once triggered, Article 50 requires "divorce" negotiations to be completed within two years.

According to Busby, it will take some time to get trade deals enacted with the U.S., and this is not in Trump's hands alone as there will be a need for support from the U.S. Congress.

"Trump's interest is not in ensuring that the UK has a post-Brexit ally per se, but rather that American jobs are created and that there are markets for American goods," he said.

Britain may find itself in a trade deal, but not necessarily one where it holds the advantage in comparison with a much bigger and more powerful economy, he warned.

"I don't think that we can assume that Trump-May will evolve into a Reagan-Thatcher relationship," Busby said.

"Trump, a recent convert to the Republican party, seems much more pragmatic in his approach to politics, and May will be expected to use her opportunities in forging a relationship to hold Trump to account in some of his more controversial policy areas.

"I'd expect a warm association between the two, but a much more business like relationship as opposed to the personal friendship of Reagan and Thatcher. Inevitably however constant comparisons will be made," Busby said.

There may be a period when both countries have an immediate need for one another -- Britain to look beyond the shockwaves of Brexit, while Trump to have a strong global ally in a world where there is uncertainty.

"This however could be short term," he warned.

If new relationships are forged between the U.S. and Russia, or if Trump acts in a way that is alien to British public and political opinion, then the special relationship may well be more of an illusion than a hard practicality which would benefit both nations, he said.

Prof. Patrick Minford, a global expert in macroeconomics, was a special adviser to Thatcher, famed for her close working relationship with former U.S. President Ronald Reagan.

Minford, Professor of Applied Economics at Cardiff Business School of Cardiff University, told Xinhua the Trump-May relationship could easily match that of the Reagan-Thatcher era.

"I believe the Trump-May relationship will work well in the same way there was a chemistry between Reagan and Thatcher.

They were complete opposites between Reagan and Thatcher. They could not have been more different.

"Similarly with Trump and May, there is a coincidence of interests, problems and approaches, and two very different people.

"We are going for free trade options to satisfy our citizens left out of the process of globalization. It is because of an absence of free trade, caused as a result of the EU's protectionist policies in things such as agriculture.

"Trump is facing the problem of illegal immigration and areas such as Detroit being denuded of jobs. What we could see is a trickle down effect because of his approach to the problems America faces.

"The U.S.-UK coincidences continue, with both countries wanting fast moving economies, cuts in regulations and curbing unskilled immigration. It could lead to an improvement in the economies of both, more of a tremendous storm than a perfect storm."

Minford predicted there will be a free trade agreement with the U.S. under the Trump presidency, backed by the fact Britain pays its way on defense and the fact both countries are already good allies.

Britain is not seen as a threat to America since the two nations are complimentary allies. On the other hand, Trump might be tough on mainland Europe, he said.

"Of course he needs to tread carefully in respect of the North American Free Trade Agreement because of the importance of the supply chain. He may have to put some stuff on hold," Minford added.
UNITED NATIONS, Jan. 27 (Xinhua) -- The UN Security Council on Friday unanimously adopted a resolution to renew sanctions against the Central African Republic (CAR) for another year until Jan. 31, 2018.

The 15-nation UN body "decides that until Jan. 31, 2018, all member states shall continue to take the necessary measures to prevent the direct or indirect supply, sale or transfer to the CAR ... of arms and related material of all types, including weapons and ammunition, military vehicles and equipment," the resolution said.

The new council resolution also renewed the travel ban and asset freeze on the target persons in the war-torn country.

The Security Council emphasized that "any sustainable solution to the crisis in the CAR should be CAR-owned, including the political process, the lack of capacity of the national security forces, the limited authority of the state over all of the CAR territory, and the persistence of the root cause of the conflict," the resolution said.

The sanctions were renewed on Jan. 27, 2016 by the Security Council, which has the primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security.

The new council resolution also touched upon the mandate of the panel of experts and the sanctions committee in charge of the sanctions against the CAR.

A civil war in the Central African Republic broke out on Dec. 10, 2012 between Seleka rebel coalition and government forces.

Seleka took power from former President Francois Bozize in March 2013 and the rebels' leader Michel Djotodia declared himself president.

A National Transitional Council was established and elected Catherine Samba-Panza as provisional president until the second round of the new election on Feb. 14, 2016, in which Touadera was elected president.
WASHINGTON, Jan. 27 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump and Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto on Friday held an hour-long telephone talk amid the dispute over a border wall.

"With respect to the payment for the border wall, both presidents recognized their clear and very public difference between their stances on this very sensitive issue," the Mexican president's office said in a statement.

"The presidents also agreed for now to not speak publicly about this controversial issue," it added.

"We had a very good call," Trump said in a news conference in Washington. "The border is soft and weak, drugs are pouring in, and I'm not going to let that happen."

"I have great respect for the Mexico. I love the Mexican people," Trump said, while adding that Mexico "has out-negotiated us and beat us to a pulp through our past leaders."

The call came after Pena Nieto cancelled a visit to the U.S. after Trump tweeted that the meeting should be cancelled if Mexico won't pay for a border wall.

On Wednesday, Trump signed an executive order on the "immediate construction of a physical wall on the southern border" and has maintained that Mexico would ultimately bear the cost of building the wall.
MEXICO CITY, Jan. 27 (Xinhua) -- Mexico's President Enrique Pena Nieto and his U.S. counterpart Donald Trump on Friday agreed to keep a bitter and ongoing dispute over a border wall project out of the public realm, the office of the presidency said.

The two "spoke for an hour by telephone," a day after Pena Nieto cancelled a meeting with Trump that was to take place on Tuesday.

Pena Nieto cancelled the visit after Trump tweeted there was no point in meeting if Mexico was not prepared to pay for a wall along the U.S.' southern border.

In a statement, the presidency said, "in regard to paying for the border wall, both presidents acknowledged their clear and very public positions on such a sensitive issue, and agreed to resolve these differences as part of a comprehensive discussion on all aspects of the bilateral relationship."

Both "also agreed to not talk about this controversial matter in public for now."

Pena Nieto and Trump have instructed their teams "to continue to dialogue to strengthen this important strategic and economic relationship in a constructive way," his office added.

The leaders had a "constructive and productive conversation" on bilateral ties, "including the U.S.' trade deficit with Mexico, the importance of the friendship between our two nations, the need for our countries to work together to stop drug trafficking and the illegal flow of arms," the office said.

Surprisingly, no mention was made of illegal immigration from Latin America, especially Mexico, to the U.S..

Trump has said the wall is needed to keep out illegal migrants, as well as prevent trafficking.

The call was "arranged by their work teams," the office said.
DAMASCUS, Jan. 27 (Xinhua) -- Syria's presidential media office denied on Friday recent rumors circulated on several news outlets that President Bashar al-Assad is in a critical condition after suffering a stroke.

In a short statement, the presidential media office said the reports are completely untrue, stressing that the president's health is "excellent" and is carrying out his job as usual.

It added that the rumors will not affect the Syrians, because "they have become immune against such lies."

The statement said that the rumors were "hopes in the imagination of those who made it up," adding that it comes amid the change in the political and field situation.

Several media outlets and Facebook pages circulated a report stating that Assad had suffered a stroke and that he was being treated in one of Damascus' high-end hospitals.
AMMAN, Jan. 27 (Xinhua) -- Jordanian Prime Minister Hani Mulki said on Friday that the current economic conditions in Jordan are not the most difficult that the country has been through.

In an interview aired by the state-run Jordan Television, the prime minister said the Jordanian dinar is stable and foreign currencies reserve is enough to cover imports for seven months.

Mulki said the government will take several measures to address budget deficit.

These measures include cutting expenditure and increasing sales tax on some commodities and items.

The increase, he said, will not affect the poor and limited income Jordanians.

The prime minister said Jordan is expected to receive 325 million dinars grant from the Gulf countries this year. Jordan expects to start talks with the Gulf states to renew the grant to the kingdom next year.

According to Mulki, the government will go ahead with several economic reforms this year. The Jordanian economy is solid and strong in spite of challenges, he said.

He added that Jordan will focus on rendering the upcoming Arab Summit a success to increase Arab action towards issues of concern to the Arab nations.
collage.jpg

John Navolt (left) and Tamika Riley.

(JCSO photos)

ST .MARTIN, Mississippi -- A man and woman from California are in custody facing multiple charges stemming from a crime spree which appears to stretch from Arksansas to Mobile, Ala.

According to Jackson County Sheriff Mike Ezell, deputies were notified of shoplifting and use of a stolen credit card at a D'Iberville store Tuesday night. The store supervisor had followed the suspects to a hotel in St. Martin.

When deputies arrived, they found the suspects' truck, but not the suspects. The truck was found to have been stolen from Arkansas. Inside the vehicle was merchandise stolen from the store, several credit cards belonging to various people, and boxes of ammunition.

Later that night, deputies found a car in a hotel parking lot on Washington Avenue which had been reported stolen from a St. Martin apartment complex. The vehicle owner had seen the theft and described the two people inside.

A short time later, deputies arrested 38-year-old John Navolt and 36-year-old Tamika Riley at another Washington Avenue hotel.

Navolt and Riley have each been charged with receipt of stolen property (the Arkansas truck), motor vehicle theft (the St. Martin apartment vehicle), and possession of a stolen firearm. Navolt is additionally charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Arkansas investigators have also placed a hold on both suspects on charges there. Mobile police are working to confirm the stolen credit card used in the D'Iberville store incident, and other items found, are from an auto burglary which occurred in Mobile.

Additional charges are pending, Ezell said and commended Deputies Brandon Zwick, Chris Goff and Hope Manning for "their persistence in pursuing and apprehending the suspects."
Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May speaks during a joint press conference with US President Donald Trump in the East Room of the White House on January 27, 2017 in Washington, DC. Xinhua/AFP PHOTO

WASHINGTON, Jan. 27 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump is "100 percent" behind NATO, British Prime Minister Theresa May said Friday as she paid a visit to the United States.

"On defense and security cooperation, we are united in our recognition of NATO as the bulwark of our collective defense, and today we've reaffirmed our unshakable commitment to this alliance," May said at a joint press conference following a meeting with Trump.

"Mr. President, I think you said, you confirmed that you're 100 percent behind NATO," she added.

In a recent interview, Trump said NATO was "obsolete because it was not taking care of terror," and he complained that various members of the bloc were not paying their dues, which was "very unfair to the United States."

However, Trump added that NATO was very important to him.

May is the first foreign leader to hold face-to-face talks with Trump after he was inaugurated a week as the new U.S. President.

At the press conference on Friday, May said she will ensure that other European leaders follow through on their commitments to NATO.

"We're also discussing the importance of NATO continuing to ensure it is as equipped to fight terrorism and cyber warfare as it is to fight more conventional forms of war," May said.

The British leader added that she will also continue to encourage other European leaders to deliver on their commitments to spend 2 percent of their country's GDP on defense "so that the burden is more fairly shared."
MEXICO CITY, Jan. 27 (Xinhua) -- Mexican telecommunications tycoon Carlos Slim on Friday said boosting jobs and investment in Mexico can curb illegal migration to the United States better than a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border.

"The best barrier are opportunities, job creation, improving national investment and welcoming foreign investment," Slim told reporters at a press conference.

His statements came a day after U.S.-Mexico ties appeared to hit a new low following an ongoing dispute over U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to build a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border, and have Mexico pay for it.

Mexico's President Enrique Pena Nieto canceled an upcoming meeting with Trump, but later spoke to him by phone, and the two agreed to stop their very public feud over the wall.

The two countries, however, are set to continue negotiations, through traditional diplomatic channels, on the wall and the existing North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

Trump "is a great negotiator" but "he isn't the Terminator, he is the Negotiator," said Slim, urging Mexican officials to engage with the new U.S. president and his team.

Slim gained international fame after Forbes named him as the world's richest man for several years in a row.
KIEV, Jan. 27 (Xinhua) -- The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), which monitors the situation in the conflict-hit eastern Ukraine, said on Friday it has recorded a sharp spike in the number of civilian deaths in Lugansk region.

"Over the past two weeks, we have confirmed at least five civilian fatalities compared to 19 for all of 2016," Alexander Hug, the deputy chief monitor of the OSCE special monitoring mission to Ukraine, told reporters.

Particularly, he noted that a 30-year-old man was hit by shrapnel from artillery rounds as he went to work in Golubivka village, while another victim was shot in the back in Zolotoe town.

According to the international monitors, at least four civilians were wounded in the neighbouring Donetsk region over the past two weeks, but there were no fatalities.

Last year, at least 83 civilians were killed and 305 were wounded in eastern Ukraine, with three-fourth of the casualties occurring in Donetsk region, which had been the epicentre of the fighting.

Overall, the almost three-year-old conflict has claimed the lives of some 10,000 people, including civilians and combatants.
KIEV, Jan. 27 (Xinhua) -- The armed conflict, which rages in eastern Ukraine for almost three years, has taken its toll on some 950,000 children, an official from the presidential administration said on Friday.

"Up to date, around one in eight of Ukrainian children have been affected by the conflict in the east," Mykola Kuleba, the President's commissioner for children's rights, told reporters.

The months of violence have endangered the lives of some 100,000 children living near the frontline of fighting and forced about 250,000 others to flee their homes, Kuleba said.

He added that some 600,000 children are still residing in the conflict-torn territories, which are controlled by independence-seeking insurgents.

According to the government's estimates, at least 68 Ukrainian children were killed in the crossfire between government troops and rebels, while 186 others were wounded since April 2014.

Besides, 80 children were on board the Malaysia Airlines flight MH17, which crashed in eastern Ukraine in July 2014, leaving no survivors.
SAN FRANCISCO, Jan. 27 (Xinhua) -- A new study indicates that tiny floating particles can grow semi-solid around pollutants, allowing them to last longer and travel much farther than what previous global climate models predicted.

Pollutants from fossil fuel burning, forest fires and biofuel consumption include air-polluting chemicals known as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, or PAHs. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified several PAHs as cancer-causing agents.

Done by researchers at Oregon State University (OSU), the U.S. Department of Energy's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, or PNNL, and Peking University of China, the study stems from a new way of looking at how the pollutants ride through the atmosphere and estimated cancer risks around the world as a result.

"We developed and implemented new modeling approaches based on laboratory measurements to include shielding of toxics by organic aerosols, in a global climate model that resulted in large improvements of model predictions," said PNNL climate scientist Manish Shrivastava and lead author of the study published online this week in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

PAHs have been difficult to represent in past climate models. Simulations of their degradation process fail to match the amount of PAH that is actually measured in the environment. To look more closely at how far PAHs can travel while riding shielded on a viscous aerosol, the researchers compared the new model's numbers to PAH concentrations measured by OSU researchers at the top of Mount Bachelor in the central Oregon Cascade Range.

"Our team found that the predictions with the new shielded models of PAHs came in at concentrations similar to what we measured on the mountain," Staci Simonich, a toxicologist and chemist in the College of Agricultural Sciences and College of Science at OSU, was quoted as saying in a news release. "The level of PAHs we measured on Mount Bachelor was four times higher than previous models had predicted, and there's evidence the aerosols came all the way from the other side of the Pacific Ocean."

These tiny airborne particles form clouds, cause precipitation and reduce air quality. A smidge of soot at their core, aerosols are tiny balls of gases, pollutants, and other molecules that coalesce around the core. Many of the molecules that coat the core are what's known as "organics." Other molecules such as pollutant PAHs also stick to the aerosol. Researchers long thought that PAHs could move freely within the organic coating of an aerosol. This ease of movement allowed the PAH to travel to the surface where ozone can break it down.

But understanding of aerosols has changed in the last five years or so. Recent experiments led by PNNL co-author Alla Zelenyuk show that, depending on the conditions, the aerosol coatings can be quite viscous. If the atmosphere is cool and dry, the coating can become as viscous as tar, trapping PAHs and other chemicals. By preventing their movement, the viscous coating shields the PAHs from degradation.

With a new way of representing PAHs in a global climate model, and running it to simulate PAH concentrations from 2008 to 2010, researchers examined one of the most carcinogenic PAHs in particular, called BaP. Simulations were compared to data from 69 rural sites and 294 urban sites worldwide, and showed that predictions from shielded PAHs were far more accurate than previous, unshielded ones.

To look at the impact globe-trotting PAHs might have on human health, Shrivastava combined a global climate model, running either the shielded PAH scenario or the previous unshielded one, with a lifetime cancer risk assessment model developed by co-authors Huizhong Shen and Shu Tao, both then at Peking University.

Globally, the previous model predicted half a cancer death out of every 100,000 people, which is half the limit outlined by the World Health Organization (WHO) for PAH exposure. But using the new model, which showed that shielded PAHs actually travel great distances, the global risk was four times that, or two cancer deaths per 100,000 people, which exceeds WHO standards. Enditem
PHNOM PENH, Jan. 27 (Xinhua) -- Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen has signed a sub-decree to create "biodiversity conservation corridors", raising the country's protected land to nearly half of the total territory.

The "biodiversity conservation corridors", covering an area of 1.42 million hectares, was to connect the kingdom's 45 designated protected areas with each other, according to the sub-decree signed by the prime minister on Thursday and released to the media on Friday.

"The creation of the biodiversity conservation corridors is to ensure stability and safety of ecological system areas, flora and fauna, especially critically endangered and vulnerable species," it said.

The new protected corridors were also to maintain environmental stability, protect and preserve natural resources and mitigate climate change and risks of natural disasters, it added.

With the corridors, the Southeast Asian nation has placed a total of 7.32 million hectares, or 40.5 percent of the country's land as protected natural areas.
U.S. President Donald Trump waves upon his arrival at the White House from Philadelphia, in Washington D.C., the United States, on Jan. 26, 2017. U.S. President Donald Trump wants a 20-percent border tax on all imports from Mexico, said White House spokesman Sean Spicer on Thursday. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu)

WASHINGTON, Jan. 27 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order Friday enacting a vetting process for refugees coming into the United States, in the name of guarding against terrorist threats.

"We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas," Trump said, while pointing the finger at the "radical Islamic terrorists" as he signed the document in the Pentagon.

The White House released no details of the document, but media reports suggested that it may include an indefinite ban on Syrian refugees and a four-month ban on all refugees as the U.S. government assesses the level of risks in each country.

Reports have also suggested that the United States would refrain from giving visas to citizens of Iran, Sudan, Syria, Libya, Somalia, Yemen and Iraq, whose governments were on the U.S. list of sponsors of terrorism or countries of concern.

The new measure, Trump said on Wednesday, is not equivalent to the Muslim ban he proposed during the presidential elections.

In the same ceremony, Trump also signed an executive order to beef up the U.S. military.

"I'm signing an executive action to begin a great rebuilding of the armed services of the United States, developing a plan for new planes, new ships, new resources, and new tools for our men and women in uniform," he said.

The move came as multiple figures in the new administration, including the newly appointed Defense Secretary James Mattis and Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Director Mike Pompeo, believed the present capacity of the U.S. military is insufficient to counter emerging threats to U.S. security and interests worldwide.
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 27 (Xinhua) -- At a red carpet roll-out event here Friday for the upcoming 23rd Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards ceremony, Hollywood stars expressed their excitement over the Chinese Year of the Rooster.

"I want to wish all of you happy Chinese New Year, the Year of the Rooster, woo-hoo!" Hollywood star Missi Pyle, who was nominated by the SAG for her performance in the motion picture "Captain Fantastic," told Xinhua.

Marcus Scribner, a nominee for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series for "Black-ish," told Xinhua that he knew this Friday was the eve of the Chinese New Year.

"Happy Chinese New Year," he said with a big smile.

"Happy New Year, the Year of the Rooster," Kathy Connell, executive producer of the SAG Awards, told Xinhua reporters Friday morning.

Other Hollywood stars, including Jean-Claude Van Damme, Ellen DeGeneres, Gal Gadot and Chris Pine, also posted their Chinese New Year greetings on social media.

The SAG Awards ceremony is scheduled to be held on Sunday at Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles.
BEIJING, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- China's market regulators received 1.67 million consumer complaints in 2016, and 1.59 million were processed, data from the State Administration for Industry and Commerce showed.

The complaint resolution rate was 95.2 percent, up 1.5 percentage points from one year earlier, the administration said in a statement on its website.

The complaints involved 4.06 billion yuan (around 592 million U.S. dollars) in disputes. Authorities at all levels helped consumers recover 1.82 billion yuan.

The statement said consumer complaints related to online shopping, cultural and recreational appliances and services rose at fast paces last year.

China's online sales boomed in 2016, surging 26.2 percent year on year to reach 5.16 trillion yuan.

Complaints lodged from rural areas also markedly increased last year, showing a strengthened rights protection awareness among rural residents.
BEIJING, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- China and Switzerland have signed a customs agreement on mutual authorized economic operator (AEO) status, a move that will further boost bilateral trade and economic cooperation, the country's top customs authority said on Saturday.

Chinese companies that obtain the AEO status will enjoy the same simplified customs procedures as native Swiss companies when their products enter Switzerland, the General Administration of Customs said in a statement on its website.

According to the World Customs Organization (WCO), an AEO is an organization or company involved in the international movement of goods that has been certified by, or on behalf of, a national customs administration and complies with WCO or equivalent supply chain security standards.

China and Switzerland launched AEO negotiations at the start of 2015, and finally reached the agreement this month after three rounds of talks.

AEO programs are expected to play a key role in boosting the country's exports amid sluggish global demand, according the statement.

China's exports dipped 2 percent year on year to 13.84 trillion yuan last year, while imports rose 0.6 percent from one year earlier to 10.49 trillion yuan.
President Trumps proposal to spend up to $1 trillion on infrastructure in the next decade will likely create a huge spike in the number of jobs available for people who dropped out of high school or earned only a high school diploma, but that increase will be only temporary, according to a new report.

A new study by the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce questions whether those jobs will lead to sustainable careers for the millions of people who get them. Its co-authors worry that Americans could see the jobs boom of the infrastructure initiative as a false dawn in the blue-collar economy.

The study, published this month, predicts that 11 million jobs could be generated by Trumps vision of massive projects to improve transportation, border security, telecommunications, and other sectors. It says that 55 percent of those jobs would go to high school graduates and dropouts.

Most of the jobs will require at most six months of formal and informal on-the-job training, the study says, and will pay better than most jobs for workers with high school diplomas or less.

Construction and utility workers, skilled tradesmen, office and retail workers will be in high demand during those projects, the study says.

But the expansion in blue-collar jobs could be misleading, the study says, because fundamentally, those kinds of jobs are disappearing in the modern economy.

The sudden, temporary expansion in the number of manual-labor jobs doesnt change the fact that most jobs in todays economy require at least a year of training beyond a high school diploma, the study said. In a report last year, the Georgetown center found that 11.5 million of the 11.6 million jobs added to the economy during the recovery from the Great Recession went to people with at least some college education .

The studys lead author, Anthony P. Carnevale, calls Trumps infrastructure proposal a high school jobs project that has the potential to temporarily revive the blue-collar economy. But temporarily appears to be a pivotal concept here: The report questions whether these jobs will lead to sustainable careers.

Others, however, see the possibility of good-paying, sustainable careers in the big infrastructure investment. At a recent congressional briefing, career-tech-ed advocates argued that such investments create demand for good-paying jobs in design, engineering, and other fields, according to a recent account of that meeting on the Association for Career and Technical Education blog . (You can see some photos from that gathering here .)

The Georgetown study argues that the expansion of jobs during the infrastructure initiative would benefit workers, providing not only good wages but additional training. But it also poses an open question about what happens to those workers down the road.

There is no doubt that the infrastructure boom would result in upskilling for workers involved. While a majority of the jobs would go to workers with only high school and short-term training, their limited formal preparation would give them access to highly valuable work experience and state-of-the-art technology as well as the formal and informal training available on the job. The longer-term challenge will be whether those skills learned on and off the job are transferable to careers available when the infrastructure boom is over ... Infrastructure jobs would likely boom and then decline, except for a growth in the share of workers necessary to maintain, repair, and update infrastructure. Our historical experience, especially in manufacturing, suggests that many of the skills obtained in the boom would not be transferable to the modern high-tech service dominated economy.



Image: Getty
BANGKOK, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- Thailand is bound to adopt "cautious, scrupulous" foreign policy in the face of newly sworn-in U.S. President Donald Trump, said a Thai expert on Friday.

Chulalongkorn University's political scientist Surachart Bamrungsuk suggested that the Thai government under Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha apply foreign policy in "cautious, scrupulous" manner while dealing with the U.S. government under maverick and outspoken Trump.

Though it would be too soon at the moment to say whether the new U.S. administration might take any measure in favor of the ASEAN countries in general and Thailand in particular, Prayut's government is strongly advised to get prepared for possibilities of radical changes in the U.S. foreign policy as a whole, Surachart said during an interview with Xinhua.

"While we have to wait and see how Trump's foreign policy will turn out, particularly regarding the ASEAN region, our government is bound to take cautious, scrupulous steps to deal with it," the Chulalongkorn expert commented.

The new U.S. administration's foreign policy would largely differ from that under former U.S. President Barack Obama who launched the so-called rebalance policy toward Southeast Asia and the Far East, he said.

Describing Trump's domestic policy as "inward-looking," Surachart believes that the new U.S. president would undoubtedly take steps to change foreign policy on a substantial and even radical scale.

"Judging from his inauguration speech, it was so obvious that Trump will change foreign policy and put the American people's interests ahead of those of all other countries around the world."

"No wonder Trump has ordered the U.S. withdrawal from the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal. Thus, the overall situation in the ASEAN region remains unpredictable at the moment and we would not have much to do but wait and see," he said.

Thailand might be no longer viewed as the "core" of the ASEAN bloc, given political turmoils and coups over the last decade while the roles of Indonesia and Singapore have been apparently put on the limelight, he added.
RIO DE JANEIRO, Jan. 27 (Xinhua) -- Brazilian President Michel Temer sent a message here Friday evening extending his best wishes for the Chinese Lunar New Year, and the city kicked off its first public celebration of the occasion, also known as the Spring Festival.

Addressing the "Chinese friends in Brazil, China and the whole world," the Brazilian president wished them health and prosperity in the new year.

Temer also said that the two countries work together to strengthen their comprehensive strategic partnership in the defense of shared interests.

Referring to the Rooster, the Chinese zodiac sign under which this year falls, the Brazilian president said it "is a symbol of much of what characterizes Chinese and Brazilians: we wake up early, work hard and face our challenges with courage. It is necessary to have courage to face the challenges of life. It is necessary to work hard to make our dreams come true."

He also recalled that his first official trip as Brazilian president brought him to China in September 2016.

During his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, "we managed to advance in joint initiatives, which will result in new investments, more trade and scientific and technological progress, to the benefit of both countries," Temer said.

In another development, Rio on Friday evening held its first public Spring Festival celebration with a three-day party in the bohemian neighborhood of Lapa.

The event featured performances of Chinese music and martial arts, as well as massage and acupuncture services and calligraphy demonstrations. There were also kiosks with typical Asian foods and beverages.

In addition, for the first time, Rio's world-renowned statue of Christ the Redeemer was illuminated by red lights for the Chinese Lunar New Year.

The event was promoted by the Chinese Consulate and six associations of Chinese communities in Rio, and supported by the Rio municipal government.

"It is a big event not only for the Chinese people, but for Brazilian people too. Brazil and China are big countries, and in the economic and trade fields we have a lot of exchange, but it is still not enough. In the field of cultural exchange, there is much more room for growth. This celebration is for this purpose, to deepen understanding about our cultures," said Li Yang, the Chinese consul general in Rio.

The Chinese official expected some 10,000 people will attend the three-day event, which will last until Sunday.
HAVANA, Jan. 27 (Xinhua)-- Cuban President Raul Castro on Friday night led the traditional "March of Torches" to mark the 164th anniversary of the birth of the Caribbean island's national hero Jose Marti, and meanwhile to pay tribute to late revolutionary leader Fidel Castro.

At the University of Havana, over 30,000 young Cubans gathered to remember the Cuban independence hero Marti as well as Castro, who launched the commemorative march 64 years ago when he was a college student.

Nationwide, Cuba's university students lit up torches and marched through the main streets on the occasion.

"We march today to remember that our beliefs, loyalty to our history, heroes and martyrs must prevail," said Jennifer Bello, president of the Cuban University Students' Federation, in a speech delivered before a 1 km-long march to where Marti was imprisoned in his early years.

Many participants also held pictures of Castro, who passed away last November.

Raul Castro, along with youth leaders and government officials, led the march starting from Havana University.

"We came here to express our support for the revolution and president Raul. The young people will continue the path that Marti and Fidel started," Frank Verdecia, a telecommunications student, told Xinhua.

"Marti was the leader of our independence and his ideals inspired Fidel to start the revolution. We're here to continue with their principles and show our support for the revolution," Amaya Leon, a high school student, said.
BAGHDAD, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- Two suicide car bomb attacks struck security forces in the city of Fallujah in Iraq's western Anbar province, leaving many security members killed and wounded, a police source said.

The attack took place in early morning when a suicide car bomb went off at a joint checkpoint of army soldiers, policemen and allied tribal fighters guarding the western entrance of Fallujah, some 50 km west of the Iraqi capital of Baghdad, the source told Xinhua on condition of anonymity.

Minutes later, another suicide bomber rammed his explosive-laden car into the checkpoint and detonated it when many security members were gathering at the site of the first blast, the source said.

The two blasts destroyed the several buildings and military vehicles and caused human casualties, but the source could not immediately give further details.

No group has so far claimed the attacks, but the Islamic State, in most cases, is responsible for such suicide bombings targeting Iraqi security forces as well as crowded areas, including markets, cafes and mosques across the country.

Iraqi security forces and allied militias freed Fallujah, a once major stronghold for IS, in mid-July last year.

The two attacks came as the Iraqi security forces backed by an anti-IS international coalition are carrying out a major offensive to drive out IS militants from its last major stronghold in and around Mosul.

Many blame the current chronic instability, cycle of violence, and the emergence of extremist groups, such as the IS, on the U.S., which invaded and occupied Iraq in March 2003.
JUBA/MONROVIA, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- While the Chinese across the world are celebrating their Lunar New Year with family reunions, the country's peacekeepers are carrying out UN missions in places far away from home.

Ma Yuanlong, a Chinese peacekeeper in South Sudan, is from Qihe, a county in China's northern province of Shandong. He has a two-month-old son, whom he has only seen for two days since his birth.

For the 29-year old soldier and his comrades, homesickness is something inevitable, especially at this time of the year when the most important festival for Chinese families, known as the Spring Festival, is celebrated.

As a member of China's third peacekeeping infantry battalion to South Sudan, he was sent to the eastern African country in December, right after his wife gave birth.

"I feel sorry for my wife because I was away when she needed me most," said Ma. "I have promised her that I will be with her and our son at next Chinese new year."

Ma's team is tasked with various missions, ranging from protecting civilians, UN staff and humanitarian workers, to logistics, conducting patrols and providing security escorts.

In July 2016, two Chinese peacekeepers died and five others were wounded after their vehicle was struck by a shell when it was guarding a refugee camp near the UN compound in Juba, the capital of South Sudan.

"For my son, I am sure that he will understand how honorable my job is when he grows up," Ma said.

Zhang Qin, another Chinese peacekeeper in South Sudan, told Xinhua that she has not been able to celebrate the Spring Festival together with her family since she joined the army two years ago.

"I want my parents know that I've taken good care of myself. I do good work here, and I love them and miss them very much," the 22-year old from China's southwestern province of Sichuan said.

According to official figures released in late 2016, China has 2,496 deployed peacekeepers worldwide and most of them are in Africa, across six missions in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Liberia, Lebanon, Sudan, Mali and South Sudan.

From excavating unexploded mines to foot patrol in volatile areas, peacekeepers often have to endure harrowing moments.

China has participated in 24 UN peacekeeping operations and deployed a total number of 33,000 military peacekeepers since 1990, says the Ministry of National Defense

China, already the top contributor of peacekeeping forces among the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, is preparing to make even bigger contributions to UN peacekeeping missions.

As Chinese President Xi Jinping announced at the UN headquarters in 2015, China will set up a permanent peacekeeping police squad and build a peacekeeping standby force of 8,000 troops.

While in Liberia, another war-torn African nation, Chinese peacekeeper Chen Lin often thinks about his grandmother who is hospitalized in his hometown.

"My grandma loves me most and I really wish that I could be with her," said Chen, a Chinese riot policeman who was on a UN peacekeeping mission in Monrovia to help maintain order and security in Liberia.

But Chen says his grandmother understands his absence as serving the country.

"She is very proud of me," said the young man from the eastern coastal province of Zhejiang.
JALALABAD, Afghanistan, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- At least seven militants loyal to the Islamic State (IS) have been killed in a drone attack targeting their hideouts in the eastern Nangarhar province on Saturday, an army spokesman said.
JALALABAD, Afghanistan, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- At least seven militants loyal to the Islamic State (IS) have been killed in a drone attack targeting their hideouts in the eastern Nangarhar province on Saturday, an army spokesman said.

"Acting upon intelligence report, the unmanned plane targeted the positions of IS rebels in Achin district early Saturday, killing seven insurgents, including two judges of the terrorist group," army spokesman in the eastern region Shir Aqa Faqiri told Xinhua.

He said airstrikes against militants will continue.

The U.S. military stationed in Afghanistan often conduct drone attacks against militants in the conflict-hit country.

Nangarhar province with Jalalabad as its capital has been the scene of IS activities over the past two years.
SRINAGAR, Indian-controlled Kashmir, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- Five troopers went missing Saturday after a snowbound track they were walking on caved in near Line of Control (LoC) dividing Kashmir, army officials said.

The troopers were part of a routine patrol in Machil sector of frontier Kupwara district, about 165 km northwest of Srinagar city, the summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir.

The search for the troopers has been going on in full swing, Indian army spokesman Col Rajesh Kalia told Xinhua.

On Wednesday, 15 troopers were killed after being hit by avalanches at three different places in Gurez and Sonamarg.

It took rescue teams two days to retrieve their bodies from the snow mounds in Gurez.
Delegates attend the press conference after the Syrian talks in Astana, Kazakhstan, Jan. 24, 2017. The Syrian talks in Astana, Kazakhstan, ended on Tuesday, with a final communique backing a one year ceasefire reached recently in Syria, and brought six-year-old foes face to face for the first time. (Xinhua/Kalizhan Ospanov)

DAMASCUS, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- The Syrian army reached the Ain Fijeh spring northwest of the capital Damascus on Saturday, hoisting the Syrian flag over that area following a month of battles with rebels there to capture that area and restore drinking water to Damascus, a military source told Xinhua.

The Syrian army entered Ain Fijeh, after reaching an "initial" agreement with the rebels there for their evacuation from that area, possibly toward the northwestern province of Idlib, the source said, on condition of anonymity.

He added that maintenance workers are bracing to enter the village to fix the Ain Fijeh spring, the main water source feeding the capital's over five million inhabitants.

The recent development comes as battles have raged since Dec. 22, when the water was cut off from the capital, with the government accusing the rebels of the al-Qaida-linked Nusra Front of severing the flow of water to Damascus.

The battles were penetrated with a few pauses, in which efforts were being exerted to reach a deal with the rebels. However, all previous efforts had failed without achieving its intended goals, as the rebels of Nusra were reluctant to leave the area, insisting on rendering flat all efforts to defuse the tension in that area.

It's worth mentioning that several rebel groups were stationing in Barada Valley, with most of them establishing reconciliation with the government, except Nusra, which is designated as a terror group by the UN and excluded from a currently-underway cease-fire that began on Dec. 30.

Ain Fijeh is one of ten towns in the Barada Valley region northwest of Damascus. The army captured all of the towns, before finally reaching Ain Fijeh.

Now, the army seems in control of the spring, and the workers will start fixing the damage, as a prelude to resuming the water flow to Damascus, whose residents have been struggling with the scarcity of water since Dec. 22.

The water authorities have implemented emergency plans to meet around 30 percent of the daily needs of Damascus city residents on a rotational basis until water infrastructure is restored to its previous capacity.
TEHRAN, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- Iran's President Hassan Rouhani on Saturday criticized new United States plan for visa ban on some nations and building wall in the border with Mexico.

"Today is not the era for segregating nations with walls," Rouhani said.

On the contrary, if there is any wall between the nations, it should be removed, he added.

Besides, Rouhani said that creating distances between the nations and peoples of different geographies is not the demand of modern age.

"Today, the nations are neighbors in terms of cultural and scientific cooperation and civilization. Also, communication technology has removed distances among the global people," he said.

U.S. President Donald Trump has vowed to build a "great wall" along the U.S.-Mexico border to stop the flow of illegal immigrants from Mexico.

Trump signed an executive order Friday to restrict immigration from some countries, which he said, is "compromised by terrorism."

The order does not reveal the name of the countries, but a White House official named the countries as Iran, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Libya, Yemen and Somalia.

The Islamic republic has dismissed the allegations of supporting terrorism in the region.
(This is the first post in a three-part series)

The new question-of-the-week is:

What is the role, if any, of an ELL students home language in the classroom?

Over ten percent of the student population in the United States is comprised of English Language Learners. Given that reality, the role of a students home language merits discussion.

Today, Melissa Eddington, Wendi Pillars, Tracey Flores, Sandy Ruvalcaba Carrillo and Mary Ann Zehr offer their thoughts. You can listen to a 10-minute conversation I had with Melissa, Wendi and Tracey on my BAM! Radio Show . You can also find a list of, and links to, previous shows here.

Use of students primary language (called L1, native language, home language or heritage language) in the ESL classroom has been a controversial topic. Some claim that its use can hinder learning English and can result in students getting accustomed to using it as a crutch. However, recent research has also found that careful and strategic use of a students primary languagewhether through a translation by a teacher, peer tutor, bilingual aide, or assistance from students themselvescan in fact help English language learning, particularly in understanding grammar concepts, vocabulary, instructions, and in developing teacher-student and student-student relationships.

There will be times, however, when limiting primary language use could be important. For example, during certain classroom activities, I might say that the next ten minutes is an English-only time. The chances of this request being generally respected is high in my classroom because students know that I do not typically restrict their own use of L1 at any point (and in fact often use it in the strategic ways Ive previously mentioned).

Acknowledging, celebrating, and encouraging the use of our students home languages is just one of the many ways we can look at them through the lens of assetsand not deficits that they bring to the learning process.

You might also be interested in previous columns here about Teaching English Language Learners .

Response From Melissa Eddington

Melissa Eddington is an ELL educator from Central Ohio. She has been teaching ELLs for 14 years - and16 overall. Shes an advocate for her students everyday in the classroom:

Imagine you have a student who entered your classroom where the only language spoken is one unfamiliar to them...what do you do? As an educator, a students home language plays an important role in the classroom. According to Frank Genesee, a professor in the Psychology Department at McGill University, Montreal, in his book The Home Language: An English Language Learners Most Valuable Resource, With respect to ELLs, there is undeniable and growing evidence that the home language of ELLs is of considerable benefit to their overall academic success. We need to nurture our students by using their home language as we assist them in acquiring their new language.

Some Instances where using the students home language in the classroom may be necessary are as follows:



Understanding Directions: Students may need the directions spoken to them in their home language for full understanding and for success. It is crucial for the teacher to model as well for the new student. With translation and modeling, the student has a higher chance of being successful, which is our goal.



Connecting Vocabulary: Students who have a solid understanding of their home language can connect new English words to the known words for success in the classroom. It is found that knowledge, skills, concepts, and ideas that a student learns in their first language can transfer into their learning of the second language... (Russell, J. and Wariua-Nyalwal, P. (2015) Research-Proven Strategies for Improving Content Vocabulary for Middle School English Language Learners. International Journal of Business and Social Science). Consider having the student write the vocabulary words in both their home and new language for deeper understanding.



Classroom Routines and School Tour: Students who do not understand the language spoken in the classroom need to have the classroom routines (including rules and expectations) translated into their home language and be given a tour of the school because they are held to the same standard as the English speaking students. According to the Ohio Department of Education, in Teaching English Language Learners: What Classroom and Content Teachers Need to Know About English Language Learners, allow students with the same first language to discuss the learning materials. Often higher proficiency students can help new arrivals. Set the new student up with a buddy, preferably one who speaks their home language, so they are comfortable and feel safe.

Of course there are additional reasons why a students home language would need to be utilized in an English speaking classroom, these are just a few. I would encourage you to explore more. A students home language is something we should never try to take away from a student.





Response From Wendi Pillars

Wendi Pillars, NBCT, has been teaching students with English as a second/foreign language needs in grades K-12, both stateside and overseas, for 21 years. She has also taught Algebra, History, vocational classes, and Health and PE. She is the author Visual Notetaking for Educators: A Teachers Guide to Student Creativity , as well as several articles on best practices for ELLs, educational neuroscience, and teacher leadership. A lifelong learner, she loves using creativity to empower her learners. She can be reached on Twitter @wendi322 :

ESL teachers know that optimizing students linguistic resources can be a game-changer, but its tricky business. We dont realize the advantage we have as English speakers until we are outside of our language bubble, become part of a minority language scenario, and are unable to use it as the tool it has always been for us. You juggle constant active listening, observing facial cues and body language, translating and interpreting everything you can because youre not sure when and what to filter, plus the anxiety of responding to teacher questions -- whew! Our language learners have a LOT on their mental plates.

We must acknowledge L1 as a valuable resource and judicious tool for learning to help ease their mental loads. But ultimately, language is power, and in American schools that power is based in English. It is the language of testing, and of most instruction and student-teacher interaction.

The goal is for students to use their L1 intentionally to access English. Our role is to teach students to value their language as a tool for comparing, accessing, and contextualizing information. Encourage students to think deeply by showing that language learning is both a perspective and a process. Value your students knowledge and skills as incredible resources upon which to build new learning, and do so explicitly.

From my experience in multilingual classrooms, I see the transformative power of students as experts when teaching others about their native cultures and languages. Watching various language learners craft English into their common tool for communication is fascinating. The knowledge of their own language(s) serves as a foundation for patterns, concepts, and usage in other languages. Much evidence has shown that the stronger a student is in his/ her L1, the more readily they can learn another language. Encouraging students to talk about, and family members to continue communicating in, the L1 are critical for this reason.

This semester my English learners are uniquely monolingual. All of my students are Spanish speakers, and weve optimized that in a number of ways. We combine ESL I, II, and III classes frequently, which makes for fabulous grouping scenarios, partnering, and opportunities for student leadership. Weve had the pleasure of several bilingual guests, who have been gracious enough to speak in both languages during their presentations. Doing so allows students to hear complex language used naturally, helping concepts stick for all students and facilitating subsequent conversations about the content and speakers.

We also use bilingual textbooks, so that even our newest learners can pull concepts directly from the text. They learn to analyze cognates, make educated inferences based on phrases and words they already know, access nuanced ideas, and navigate complex grammar and vocabulary from the start. These textual experiences further increase motivation since they are typically culturally relevant. When written texts are unavailable, we use podcasts, TED talks, video clips, live broadcasts, and even former students to supplement student learning through a broad array of multimodal inputs.

Considering language as a tool rather than a barrier is a mighty fine place to begin, no matter how you say it.





Response From Tracey Flores

Tracey Flores is a PhD candidate in English Education at Arizona State University (ASU). She is a former English Language Development (ELD) and Language Arts teacher who worked in elementary classrooms for eight years. Her research focuses on adolescent Latina girls and mothers language and literacy practices and on using family literacy as a springboard for advocacy, empowerment, and transformation for students, families, and teachers:

So, if you really want to hurt me, talk badly about my language. Ethnic identity is twin skin to linguistic identityI am my language. Until I can take pride in my language, I cannot take pride in myself. ~Gloria Anzaldua

It is 1962, a young Latina girl, in 4th grade, with long black hair and curious dark brown eyes is in her classroom after the school day has come to an end. She is alone. In her right hand is a small piece of white chalk, which she raises to the chalkboard and writes, I will not speak Spanish on the playground. This sentence, she has been told by her teacher, must be written 100 hundred times on the blackboard, punishment for speaking Spanish on the playground.

This is my mothers story. I cannot write this blog post without sharing this very personal story that my mother shared with me.

Each time she shares it with me, she becomes that young girl again. As she relives the torment of this moment, I can hear the deep pain in her voice. This moment of filled with shame, ridicule and guilt was not one isolated experience. It was a series of experiences that she endured as a child and young adult growing up bilingual and biliterate.

As a former English Language Development (ELD) teacher working within a state with English Only policies, this narrative of shame, ridicule and guilt continues to be part of the lived experiences of many children learning English as an additional language. In Arizona, students are tracked into classrooms based on language proficiency and receive 4-hours of skills-based language and literacy instruction. This mandate is based on the assumption that the acquisition of language will happen within one school year and does not take into account the rich linguistic and literacy practices that children and youth bring to our classrooms from their homes and communities.

Under restrictive policies and mandates like the one in my home state, many of our students learning English as an additional language enter the classroom already viewed as lacking or as blank slates in need of remediation. Rather than stigmatize the language and literacy practices that our students bring from their homes and communities, we should work toward recognizing the value of these resources and their place within our learning communities and schools.

From my own experiences, I open my classroom door to you, and provide a glimpse into the ways that I created space for my students home language in my own learning community, even under very restrictive English-only policies.



Support Parents in Sustaining Home Language: There are some misconceptions made by teachers and families about language policies in schools. Our job is not to discourage families from sustaining home language, but rather to support families in their commitment to teaching their child their home language. This is a gift! Home Language/Literacy Dig: Invite students to enter their homes as ethnographers and record all the different ways language and literacy is used in their homes and communities. This can uncover practices and funds of knowledge that can be included in the curriculum throughout the school year. Dialogue Journals: Provide each student with a personal journal that is a shared writing space between the two of you. Give daily prompts or free writing time. Allow students the freedom to practice writing in any language without fear of judgement. Classroom Newsletter: Create a classroom newsletter with students and their families as reporters. Invite families to contribute stories, recipes, how-to-guides, etc. in the language of their choice. Print and distribute to all families. Family Writing Workshops: Create an after-school multilingual space for students and their families to draw, write and share stories in a variety of genres.

Even under restrictive policies and mandates, our classrooms must provide space for our students home languages. A students home language is a powerful tool for mediating learning. Through their home languages, the language of the heart, students first learned as children -- how to love, to hope, to dream and to wonder. This in itself is a powerful resource to use in our classrooms to build learning communities where students and teachers can learn, thrive and live--together.





Response From Sandy Ruvalcaba Carrillo

Sandy Ruvalcaba Carrillo is a resource teacher for dual language learners and co-author of More Mirrors in the Classroom: Using Urban Childrens Literature to Increase Literacy (Rowman & Littlefield, 2016) [Editors Note: You can read an interview I did with Sandy and her co-authors here ):

Across the nation, districts vary in the language service delivery models that are implemented and often use a combination of programs. Decisions on which model to use are left in the hands of the local education agency and determining factors are state laws, population, resources, and the preference of the community. Language programs fall under one of two overarching goals, English development or bilingualism and biliteracy (Faulkner-Bond, et al., 2012; Garcia & Baker, 2007). These goals will drive how the home language is viewed and used: whether it is the means to acquiring English or developed so that students can understand, speak, read, and write in more than one language.

With the cognitive, psychological, and social benefits of being bilingual, programs in which the home language is not developed may be at odds with what is best for students (Baker, 2000). When children enter the door of a school, they bring with them all of who they are - lived experiences and rich backgrounds. A significantly important part of their identity is the language spoken at home, a valuable resource that connects them to family and can lead to a positive self-concept and educational success if promoted in school (Cummins, 2001; Genesee, 2012). The good news is that, regardless of the language program model in place, educators can create positive learning environments and make conscientious choices that build upon the cultural and linguistic resources students bring with them. The following are some suggestions:



Form traditions and rituals that incorporate the home language. It can be the start or end to the school day or a celebratory song/chant when the class accomplishes a goal. Come up with it together and make it your own! Many times, these are the things that students remember and enjoy.

Empower students and families by allowing them access to the ways of school. Depending on their exposure to our school system, students from nonmainstream cultures benefit from explicit guidance on how the classroom and the school functions. This can be especially challenging when there is a language barrier so, as much as possible, educators should make every effort to communicate information in the home language.

Tap into family and community resources. Invite family and other community members into the classroom to read a book, model how to do something, or teach a song or a poem in the home language. This can also be kept in mind when scheduling classroom trips.

Include the home language in ways to assess childrens understanding of concepts . As much as possible, utilize the home language to create ways for students to demonstrate what they know. At the very least, always have it as a point of consideration when analyzing other data points. This will be helpful for guiding instruction and making decisions about programming.

Advocate for the use of the home language beyond the classroom walls. Collaborate with and enlist the help of school staff, especially those who speak the students language(s), in infusing the home language throughout the day, during lunch, on the playground, in special classes, and at school-wide events.

Choose materials that authentically represent students language and culture. Offer a variety of books, both fiction and nonfiction, in the language(s) spoken by students. Choose books with which students can connect and encourage them and their families to be the creators of their own stories

The goal is that one day all students will have the opportunity to develop bilingual proficiency. Until that day comes, students will benefit from the choices educators make to honor and promote the home languages they bring to the classroom.

References/Suggested Readings

Baker, C. (2000). The care and education of young bilinguals. Clevedon: Multilingual Matters.

Cummins, J. (2001). Bilingual Childrens Mother Tongue: Why is it Important for Education?

Faulkner-Bond, M., Waring, S., Forte, E., Crenshaw, R.L., Tindle, K., & Belknap, B. (2012). Language Instructional Education Programs (LIEPs): A Review of the Foundational Literature (pp. 107-121). US Department of Education.

Genesee, F. (2012). The Home Language: An English Learners Most Valuable Resource .

Garcia, O. & Baker, C. (2007). Bilingual education. Clevedon: Multilingual Matters.

Nemeth, K. (2009). Many languages, one classroom: Teaching dual and English language learners. Silver Spring, MD: Gryphon House, Inc.





Response From Mary Ann Zehr

Bio: Mary Ann Zehr teaches English at the International Academy, a high school for English-language learners that is part of the Francis L Cardozo Education Campus in the District of Columbia Public Schools:

I work at an academy in the District of Columbia that is part of the Internationals Network for Public Schools. The network promotes a school design for teaching English-language learners that incorporates the use of students home languages in the classroom. I agree with this approach. Spanish is the home language for most students in our academy. My students have primarily immigrated from El Salvador, Honduras, and Guatemala, but some students have come from other countries and thus do not understand Spanish. All of my students are English-language learners.

I teach to the whole class always in English but I occasionally speak Spanish with some students one-on-one or in small groups to offer a brief explanation. When students work in pairs or groups, they may speak in their home language, but when they hand in an assignment to me or make an oral report to the class, they must use English. In every class, they must produce English. I pair students with more English proficiency with those who have less English proficiency and have the more advanced students help the newcomers to write what they want to say in English or practice saying words in English before they make a presentation to the class.

One of the most valuable uses of the native language is to have students read content first in their home language and then in English. Reading a text first in their native language helps them to better understand the English text. They do this while completing online research assignments. Also, when students are reading articles Ive printed from Web sites such as newsela.com, I encourage them to read the content first in Spanish and then in English. In addition, last school year, we read excerpts from Enriques Journey, by Sonia Nazario, a story about a Honduran teenager who travels thousands of miles to try to reunite with his mother in the United States. I assigned students whose native language was Spanish to read the excerpts first in Spanish and then in English. This approach greatly increased their engagement. When their peers were reading aloud in Spanish, students were more attentive than if they heard the text read only in English. The Spanish text provided a bridge for those students who were newest to the class to understand the story.

When students are new to writing English, I encourage them to write their ideas first in their native language and then have another student help them translate the ideas into English or do so themselves. Using their native language is a way to get them started in thinking about what they want to say. Sometimes they are so new to English that they really dont know enough words to express their ideas. Other times, they are simply stuck and cant think of what to say. Once they write some ideas down in their native language, their ideas start flowing and it doesnt seem so daunting to write in English.

While I constantly model English and encourage students to always speak with me and to the whole class in English, permitting them to use their native language while working in pairs or small groups can help students to get their heads around the content and then move to thinking, speaking, or writing in English. I believe teachers are missing out on some valuable strategies if they dont incorporate students native languages into the teaching and learning process. At the least, if teachers have a number of students who share the same home language, such as Spanish or French, teachers can use words in English that have cognates in that home language to ease the acquisition process.





Thanks to Melissa, Wendi, Tracey, Sandy and Mary Ann for their contributions!

Please feel free to leave a comment with your reactions to the topic or directly to anything that has been said in this post.

Consider contributing a question to be answered in a future post. You can send one to me at lferlazzo@epe.org .When you send it in, let me know if I can use your real name if its selected or if youd prefer remaining anonymous and have a pseudonym in mind.

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Education Week has published a collection of posts from this blog, along with new material, in an e-book form. Its titled Classroom Management Q&As: Expert Strategies for Teaching .

Just a reminder--you can subscribe and receive updates from this blog via email or RSS Reader. And, if you missed any of the highlights from the first five years of this blog, you can see a categorized list below. They dont include ones from this current year, but you can find them by clicking on the answers category found in the sidebar.

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SYDNEY, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- The dense Lunar New Year vibe in Australia was further lifted as Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and other officials gave new year greetings to Chinese at home and abroad.

"The Lunar New Year is the highlight of the Chinese calendar and a special occasion for families to gather and celebrate their heritage," the prime minister said.

He added that "while this festival is a moment of particular significance to those of Chinese background, it is equally a time for Australians of all cultural backgrounds to reflect on and celebrate the benefits of our diversity."

Turnbull said that Australia is "a nation built on the riches of many cultures," where "every community group and every cultural tradition is an indelible part of who we are."

"The Year of the Rooster, a sign traditionally associated with confidence, motivation, and assertiveness, bodes well for future success," the official said, adding that "I wish all Australians a wonderful Chinese New Year and great fortune and happiness in the months ahead."

Julie Bishop, Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs, also sent a media release Saturday expressing her "best wishes to the Chinese community on Chinese New Year and to other East Asian Communities who celebrate the Lunar New Year tradition."

"May the Year of the Rooster bring you and your families good health, happiness, and enduring prosperity. May it also bring Australia, the region and the world greater peace and harmony. Xin Nian Kuai Le (the Chinese pinyin for Happy New Year)!"

"The Australian Chinese community has made the great contribution to Australia and Chinese culture has become one of the most important parts of Australia' s multicultural society," said Matt Thistlewaite, Shadow Assistant Minister for Treasury.

Thistlewaite made the remarks while celebrating the Chinese New Year with the Australian Chinese community as federal member of Kingsford Smith, where the "electorate enjoys and appreciates the gift and contribution from the hardworking, honest and talented Chinese community."

"I am honored to celebrate the Chinese New Year, the Year of Rooster with all the Australian Chinese community, and I wish all of you and your family a happy, healthy and prosperous Chinese New Year," the official said.

"You should be proud of your achievements for the past year and should feel confident for the year to come and I thank you all for making our community a better place. May the Year of the Rooster a happy, healthy, fortunate and prosperous year for you all. Happy Year of the Rooster," said Thistlewaite.
BEIJING, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- For millions of Chinese who return home every year for the Spring Festival, it means a chance to relax with their family, but for those who work in the aviation sector, the 40-day travel rush around the festival is their busiest time of the year.

"Normally, we hand out dumplings to our passengers," said Zhang Jiao (not her real name), a flight attendant with Air China.

According to the stewardess, she hardly goes home for the Chinese Lunar New Year, instead her companions over the festive period are insomnia and unusual eating hours. And she does not let this affect her work ethic -- she continues to pour passion into her job every day.

When asked about how Chunyun, the travel rush, has changed over the years, she said, "Now more and more migrant workers are choosing to fly home."

"Also more Chinese go abroad for the holiday," she noted.

Even though his feet are firmly on the group, Air China plane maintenance employee surnamed Qu said Chunyun is a busy time for him.

"Our maintenance work began before Chunyun. It is our job to monitor the planes 24 hours a day so that we can identify and address any problem early," he said.

Like Zhang, the experienced engineer commented that more people prefer to fly during the festive period, which means his workload has increased over the years.

"In the past, we only had few plane models that flew during Chunyun, like the Trident, the Il-62 and the Boeing-707. But now, more wide-body planes have been added, like Boeing 777-300 and Boeing 747-800," he said.

Data published by CAAC News showed the Chinese civil aviation sector will operate 470,000 flights during Chunyun, transporting passengers on 58.3 million trips, an increase of 10 percent over that of last year.

As of Jan. 11, an additional 22,595 domestic charted flights, 1,880 international charted flights, as well as 1,190 flights to Hong Kong, Taiwan and Macao had been added to the usual schedule to help cope with travel rush.

This increase of flights, however, means more work for staff.

An Air China pilot, surnamed Xie, said Chunyun "is very tiring with so much extra to do."

"During Chunyun, flights cannot be canceled, as all the passengers are desperate to go home -- so, we just work more. I am so proud to be helping so many people get back home safe and sound so that they can celebrate the Spring Festival," the pilot said.

An employee with Beijing Capital International Airport ground service, surnamed Bao, said, "During this time we have to deal with lots of unusual or special situations."

"For example, there were many flight delays a few days ago because of wind and snow. This meant that we had to update the flight information, manage baggage transfers, and get doctors or ambulances to passengers who fell ill," she said.

"During Chunyun, many parents return home with their kids and lots of the younger kids get stuck in the seats at the airport terminal -- we have to help extract them!" she said.

These individuals are some of the millions who have played a huge role in the overall development of China's aviation sector. By mid-December, more than 90 millions passengers had used Beijing Capital International Airport in 2016, second in the world for the seventh consecutive year.

Even with this achievement, the employees continue to work hard.

"What we want most is to offer our passengers the highest quality of security, efficiency and punctuality," Qu said.
JALALABAD, Afghanistan, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- Three militants of the Islamic State (IS) were killed in clashes with security forces in the eastern Afghan province of Nangarhar, a military spokesman said Saturday.

A group of IS fighters attacked security checkpoints in Ghani Khil district Friday night, triggering a gun battle during which three armed insurgents were killed and the remaining fled away, said Shir Aqa Faqiri, spokesman for 201 Corps in the eastern region.

According to Faqiri, there were no casualties on civilians or security personnel.
A Palestinian waits for travel permit to cross into Egypt through the Rafah Border Crossing, in the southern Gaza Strip, Jan. 28, 2017. The Egyptian authorities on Saturday opened Rafah crossing border with the Gaza Strip for humanitarian cases for three days, officials said. (Xinhua/Khaled Omar)

GAZA, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- Egyptian authorities opened Saturday the Rafah border crossing for the first time since the beginning of this year, said an official of the Islamic Hamas movement.

Hamas-run ministry of interior said in an emailed press statement that Egypt has opened the crossing for four days to allow hundreds of Palestinians to travels through the Gaza crossing with Egypt, in both directions.

The statement said that nearly 20,000 Palestinians are registered to travel for humanitarian reasons, including education, medical treatment and family reunifications.

Egypt lastly opened the crossing on Dec. 17 for four days, after frequent Palestinian demands.

The opening of the crossing came a day after Deputy Chief of Hamas Ismail Haneya returned to Gaza after spending four months in Qatar.

Rafah crossing is the only available crossing point for around two million Palestinians living in the embargoed Gaza Strip that has been ruled by the Islamic Hamas movement since it violently seized control of it in 2007.

Egypt, with whom Gaza shares the eastern borders, had shut down the borders and imposed restrictions on the crossing after ties between Hamas and Egyptian officials faltered, following the ouster of Islamic President Mohammad Morsi in 2013, where Egypt accused Hamas of intervening in its internal affairs.

The restrictions on the border crossing have lead to severe consequences on the economic situation of Gaza Strip.
BEIJING, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- Since arriving in Beijing to study in 2014, every Chinese New Year Sabaa Ali El-Tayeb has bought a stuffed toy animal.

This year, the Year of the Rooster, she bought a rooster on Wangfujing, a busy commercial street in downtown Beijing. Last year, the year of the Monkey, she bought a lovely monkey toy.

"I will take these toys back home, and when I finish my degree they will remind me of my time in China," said the Sudanese woman, who is studying literature at Beijing Language and Culture University.

The Chinese zodiac assigns one of 12 animals, either real or mythological, to each year. This lunar year began on Saturday.

"Celebrating Spring Festival in China makes me love China even more," said Tayeb.

On Thursday, Tayeb's university organized an event where foreign students could try their hands at making dumplings, a traditional food eaten during the festival.

Tayeb said she liked this aspect of the festival the most. "Back home we have similar important meals where we eat specific food and extend our best wishes to each other."

Besides dumplings, Chinese New Year is a time for temple fairs, red lanterns, paper-cuts, blessings of good fortune and ancestor worship.

Basma Bayomy, an Egyptian student at the same university, said she planned to visit a temple fair in Chaoyang Park on Sunday.

The girl, who has been in Beijing since 2012, spent one Spring Festival at her Chinese classmate's home in Shijiazhuang, a city 300 km south of Beijing.

Bayomy was deeply impressed with the Spring Festival in 2014. She remembers how her classmate's father left out plates of food for their families' ancestors.

Similarly, Egyptians leave offerings of fruit and bread on the graves of their ancestors. Both traditions, Bayomy said, are rooted in respect for the family.

Like Chinese, many foreigners put couplets, Chinese characters wishing for good fortune, on their front doors.

Marie, a British translator in Beijing, was sent a couplet by her Chinese friend on Thursday. She stuck them on the door of her apartment, took a photo of herself standing in front of it, and shared it with her parents in Britain.

"These couplets are an expression of hope for the future and contain the Chinese spirit of 'harmony'," she said.
ANKARA, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- The seven-year-old Syrian girl who has garnered worldwide attention tweeting about her life in Aleppo met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday, the second time after she evacuated to Turkey last December.

This time, her new friend U.S. actress Lindsay Lohan was with her.

Bana Alabed, who had used photos, videos or periscopes showing details of life in the war-torn Aleppo, tweeted on Friday a Periscope video with Lohan, writing "I have a new friend Lindsay Lohan."

"We want to send to all of the people in Syria and Aleppo suffering and to all the refugees we are here supporting you and you can hang on and be strong just like Bana has," Lohan, who became a Disney film star at aged 11, told the camera in the video.

Lohan and Alabed both posted the same photo of themselves with Erdogan and his wife online after the meeting.

The tweeting girl also wrote an open letter to Donald Trump after he took office as the U.S. president, asking him to "do something for the children of Syria."

Bana's mother created the twitter account for her daughter in late September in 2016 to share their life in Aleppo to the world. In early December last year, her tweet asking for pray immediately drew attention across the globe.

Syrian rebels captured eastern Aleppo in 2012. Syrian government troops and allied forces retook it recently in a massive offensive.
DUBAI, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- Arab Coalition Forces destroyed an Iranian military drone at Yemen's Red Sea coast "with the help of United Arab Emirates (UAE) Air Force," UAE state news agency WAM reported Saturday, quoting "a Yemeni military source."

The unmanned aerial vehicle was at a mobile launching platform, "intended to target Yemeni forces participating in the liberation of Mokha city and port," said the report.

The drone was "about to take off" for its mission when it was destroyed by an air-to-surface missile in coordination with the UAE Air Force operating in Yemen, WAM quoted General Ahmed Saif Al-Yafei, deputy chief of General Staff of Yemeni Armed Forces.

The general claimed further the rebel militias have started using the smuggled weapons from Iran to Yemen, including this unmanned aircraft.

He also stressed that the presence of these Iranian weapons in Yemen, which clearly show the "blatant Iranian interference" in Yemen's crisis, and attempts to "destabilize" the region.

The UAE is part of a Saudi-led coalition comprising nine Arab states to support Yemen's "legitimate" government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi.

The coalition has been air striking on a daily basis the Iranian-backed Shiite Houthi group across Yemen since March 26, when Hadi fled to the Saudi capital Riyadh to take refuge. The coalition said its intervention aims to restore Hadi's authority in the country.
Police officers Gao Yang (C-L) and Nie Yingjie (C-R) patrol at the Changchun Railway Station during Spring Festial travel rush in northeast China's Jilin Province, Jan. 26, 2017. (Xinhua/Zhang Nan)

BEIJING, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- Spring Festival is the most important festival in China, and while the event centers around time spent with the family, this is not the case for everyone.

LONELY FESTIVAL

Xiao Liang, 13, was inconsolable when he was told that his parents would not be spending Chinese New Year with the boy and his grandparents, in Wenxi County, Shanxi Province.

The decision by his parents, who work in factories in east China's Jiangsu Province, was not taken lightly, as they knew how sad it would make their son. Last year, he traveled to Jiangsu, but they only had a few days off this year and the journey would have been long and arduous for the boy.

"Two days ago, I dreamed of my father and mother returning home and together going to visit my aunt," he said.

Luckily for him, even though his parents will not be around, he has plenty of friends and things to do at the local Children's Center, which was set up to care for left-behind children just like him.

Another event for left-behind children was a party in Hohhot, capital of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, where the children attended activities and were presented with gifts.

In China, it is common for migrant workers who go to cities to leave their children in the care of grandparents. Spring Festival is one of the few opportunities that families can be together.

BUSY WORKERS

It is the busiest season for railway staff given how many people travel during Spring Festival.

"I feel guilty when I think of my family," said Liu Tiejun, 28, a dispatcher at southwest China's Chongqing city North Railway Station. His wife and one-year-old son live in Shandong Province.

Due to his work commitments, he has not spent the last four Spring Festivals with his family. "But I feel happy to be helping others to go home," he said.

Many delivery workers also cannot go back home for the festival.

After a busy and tiring day, Yan Yong, a courier in Beijing, submerged his freezing hands in a basin of hot water.

This was the sixth Spring Festival that he has been away from his family, who live in Sichuan.

"My company encourages us to invite our family to Beijing for the festival. But my wife has to care for my parents, so I am alone," he said.

HAPPY NEW HOME

In a village in Xigaze, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, Wangdron, prepared "gutu," doughy meat porridge, for a special dinner to celebrate the local New Year, which coincides with Spring Festival.

"We had a joyful New Year and will work hard to ensure a more prosperous life," said the Tibetan woman, who is head of the village.

The villagers moved here in 2003 as part of a poverty reduction program. Last year, 14 out of 21 underprivileged households in the village shook off poverty thanks to job opportunities brought by construction projects.

"Our lives are much better than before," said Wangdron, who has plans for a Tibetan handicraft factory and green houses. She was confident that the remaining seven families will be lifted out of poverty this year.

NEW LIFE FOR OLD FOLK ART

As Chinese enjoy a modern and prosperous life, folk art is seeing a resurgence.

"This year, we sold 10,000 desk calendars with double roosters and thousands of paper-cuts," said Zhang Duotang, a master of the traditional paper-cutting art in Guangling, Shanxi.

The art has been handed down over generations in Guangling.

"This year is the Year of the Rooster, or 'ji' in Chinese. Ji is a homonym of another Chinese character meaning 'auspicious'," said Zhang.

He designed dozens of rooster paper-cuts with the help of the Internet. "They are very popular among the younger generation," he added.

Chinese Lunar New Year, which this year is the Year of the Rooster, began Saturday.
VIENNA, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- The two parties to the Austrian federal coalition government will continue their crisis talks through the weekend, to determine whether early elections will need to be held, local media reported on Saturday.

Discussions about the viability of the present government have been ongoing this week, with officials from both the Social Democrats (SPO) and the People's Party (OVP) at both state and federal levels arguing that the present government should be abandoned this year due to not seeing eye-to-eye.

Local media reports said opinions of officials have in recent days shifted back and forth from claims that the differences between the two parties are insurmountable and that the new elections could be held within just a few months, to a stabilizing of the situation following positive talks.

Chancellor Christian Kern had initially set a deadline for the negotiations to be concluded on Friday, though this will now be extended over the weekend, the chancellor himself having cancelled a planned trip to Israel and Palestine because of this.

The full term of the government would otherwise not require elections to be held until late 2018.

Vice-Chancellor Reinhold Mitterlehner of the OVP on Friday said that both sides "must be flexible" in the intense negotiations.
PARIS, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault on Saturday said U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to curb refugees flows are worrying.

At a joint press conference with his visiting German counterpart Sigmar Gabriel, Ayrault said Trump's decision to halt immigration and refugees from some Muslim-majority countries "can only worry us".

"We have international commitments that we have signed. Welcoming refugees fleeing the war, oppression is part of our duties," Ayrault added.

Ayrault and Sigmar Gabriel discussed in Paris "what (they) are going to do" to face Trump administration uncertainty in handling major international issues such as Iran nuclear deal, Russia sanctions, Middle East conflict and peace accord in Syria.

Trump signed an executive order Friday enacting a vetting process for refugees coming into the United States, in the name of guarding against terrorist threats.

The White House released no details of the document. But U.S. media reports suggested that the order may include an indefinite ban on Syrian refugees and a four-month ban on all refugees as the U.S. government assesses the level of risks in each country.

Reports have also suggested that the United States would refrain from giving visas to citizens of Iran, Sudan, Syria, Libya, Somalia, Yemen and Iraq.
5 Most Common Cybercrimes

Whether it's the ability to hop online under an avatar or fake name or an imagined distinction between the internet and IRL, quite a few folks are surprised when their online crimes come with offline consequences. Cybercrime continues to evolve and grow, and as technology advances the opportunities for cybercriminals to strike will only increase.

So what are the most common internet crimes right now, and where is internet crime headed in the future?

The days of Napster ended long ago, and Netflix, Spotify, and other streaming apps give users more opportunities than ever to listen to music and watch movies legally. But that hasn't stopped pirated songs, shows, and films from hitting the internet, or from the less scrupulous among us from scooping them up illegally.

The list of online scams may have started with silly emails from supposed African princes, but they've become much more sophisticated since then. And they're not just victimizing senior citizens unfamiliar with how the internet works. With so much money moving around online, make sure you know who you're dealing with.

As it is IRL, so it is on the internet. Facebook, Twitter, and, yes, Snapchat threats can and will get you arrested. So if you were biting your tongue offline maybe restrain your fingers and thumbs online.

Not always, but it's not hard to get there. While it many states it depends on how much financial damage was involved, but that threshold is generally as little as $500 or $1,000 -- a pretty low bar to years in prison. In other states, any identity theft offense, regardless of whether any money was stolen at all, will be a felony.

New onto the cybercrime scene, the idea of hacking into a government or corporate computer system and holding their confidential, proprietary information hostage doesn't seem to be going anywhere, at least when those offices are willing to pay. Unfortunate for would-be computer kidnappers, the ransom often comes with an arrest.

If you've been charged with a crime, cyber or otherwise, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately.

Related Resources:
By Shen Xiaobo & Wang Jiaquan

Beijingers boast that under each brick of the ancient capital's hutongs hides a story. They are not exaggerating.

In an ordinary house in a cramped hutong, or narrow alley, to the south of Tian'anmen Square, Wang Jinghu is penning a story about his great-grandfather Wang Fengqing, an eminent Peking Opera master.

Wang Jinghu, 62, a retired mechanical engineer, has no real connection to the performing art, but pride pervades his words when he talks about the achievements of his ancestors, such as an Imperial Yellow Jacket gifted to his great-grandfather by Empress Dowager Cixi of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).

The Imperial Yellow Jacket, or "huangmagua," was the highest honor a Qing emperor or empress could extend to officials or ordinary people.

Wang Fengqing in Peking Opera costume. (Provided by Wang Jinghu)

Today, few people might know of what happened in the courtyard about a century ago, but Wang says the stories not only belong to his family but also to history of Peking Opera, which is considered as the quintessence of Chinese culture.

Wang's great-grandfather Wang Fengqing made his name as "laosheng," the role of an old man. His unique sonorous tenor won him fame. He was often invited to perform in the Forbidden City for the royal family with his elder brother Wang Yaoqing, who played the "huadan," or young female role.

These two masters taught their pupils in the very courtyard where Wang now lives, including Mei Lanfang (1894-1961), one of the most famous Peking Opera artists in modern Chinese theater.

Wang Jinghu is writing for a biography project which collects stories related to Shitou Community, part of Dashilar, one of the last few historical streets with a complete layout of hutongs, just south of the Forbidden City.

So far, two collections of "Stories of Hutong" have been printed, 500 runs of each. Wang's writing is for the third episode.

Residents of Shitou Community share the stories of their hutongs. (Xinhua/Wang Jiaquan)

BIOGRAPHY FOR THE ORDINARY

The biography project was initiated in the summer of 2015 as part of efforts for community revitalization, according to Li Xiaohui, Communist Party secretary of the neighborhood's residents' committee.

The idea occurred to Li during a community revitalization training program that year.

"I was impressed by the teacher's idea of a community cultural map. I was struck by how it was perfect for my community, as Dashilar is a place full of stories, but only a handful of people know about its history," Li says.

Li organized more than 10 meetings, to collect the memories of the community's elderly residents.

But who could write the stories? That was the problem, says Li. As most of the 3,000 residents have little more than a junior middle school education, so it was hard to find writers.

Some college students participated in this project but many left before it was complete. So, members of the residents' committee took up the baton. They attended oral history lessons and learned the ropes of interview and writing.

Most of the stories in the first two collections are about ordinary residents, including a craftsman and a retired school teacher.

Wang Jinghu gives a talk about his great grandfather at the release ceremony of the Stories of Hutong. (Xinhua/Wang Jiaquan)

Wang Jinghu volunteered to be the writer when he found out that his great grandfather, who died in 1959 when Wang was only five years old, would be included.

Wang has handwritten more than 20 pages. The mechanical engineer is not unfamiliar with pens and ink, but "unlike engineering drawings, writing is not an easy job," he says. "The pen didn't seem to be a good match for me in the beginning, but everyday I am getting better."

The job became even harder when Wang was faced with the lack of documents. He has used all that have been preserved in his home, but that is not enough to support the story.

So he has to find other alternatives, such as writings about or by other Peking Opera performers who were apprentices of his ancestors or kept close relations with them, just in search for any mention of his family.

Another source, however, is intangible and only exists in Wang's memory, where the man would find himself sitting on the chair in that courtyard, listening to the stories about his ancestors by the elders in the family.

Children play in hutong on a smoggy day. (Xinhua/Wang Jiaquan)

TANGIBLE THREAT

Hutong communities began to take shape in Beijing in the 13th century. Statistics in 1949 showed that about 1,300 alleys in the capital were called hutong, but habitually, hutong may also refer to other alleys that unnecessarily bear the name, such as "xiang" (lane) and "jie" (street). As an old adage says, there are as many unnamed hutongs in Beijing as there are hairs on a bull.

The centuries old architectural legacies faced threat of disappearance when urban development of the ancient capital accelerated amid the roar of bulldozers in the 1990s. Fortunately, the Beijing municipal government decided to leave the last hutongs in situ, thanks to calls for protection efforts.

However, the problems facing hutong preservation today are less about demolition than intangible heritage protection, which has become more imminent since the last hutongs were saved.

Non-material culture of hutong is fading with the encroachment of modern civilization and the flux of young people, who have moved to other places to find more convenient living conditions, such as central heating and private toilet.

"Indeed the physical complex has remained, but hutongs are much more than buildings," says Li Xiaohui. "People and their lives are an integral part of hutong lives and history. That's why we want to record their stories."

REVITALIZATION

The biography project is supported by Wutong Community College, a non-profit organization focusing on community revitalization, which offers 5,000 yuan (about 700 U.S. dollars) for the first episode of the stories.

The group "wants to highlight the value of ordinary hutong residents in passing on Beijing's traditions and culture," says Li Jie, director and founder of Wutong.

"Their life stories, though perhaps uneventful, are reflections of the great changes ordinary Beijing residents have witnessed, and, thus, should not be ignored," the director says.

"For the future generations of hutong residents, I think they should first know where they are from, then they can be aware of where they are going," she says.

Two vendors in hutong. (Xinhua/Wang Jiaquan)

Xu Hua, a voluntary academic director of the biography project, says that it is very important to explore the stories behind hutongs, where both celebrities and common people once mixed, as "residents there are the epitome of Beijing's culture and traditions."

Xu sees the biography project as a very small step towards a more ambitious program -- the oral history of hutong communities.

Xu believes an oral history program may help cultivate a sense of community among residents. "We may begin with personal or family history by helping people record their own stories and trace their family trees."

Hutong communities near Tian'anmen attract a lot of domestic and overseas tourists. (Xinhua/Wang Jiaquan)

Li Xiaohui, the community secretary, also wants to do more. She says that stories about hutongs, once the blood vessels of Beijing, are a valuable resource for the studies of Beijing's history and culture.

She hopes one day the stories of her neighborhood can be put onto stage for visitors to Dashilar. "When visitors can sit down in our hutong and listen to or watch our stories, they can take a piece of Beijing away with them."
ANTANANARIVO, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- At least 45 people, including newlyweds, were killed Saturday as a lorry fell from a bridge into river in Anjozorobe, a town 90 kilometers northeast of Antananarivo, Madagascar's capital, official source said.

"45, including 9 children, 27 women and 9 men, were killed on spot while 24 others injured, during the accident," the mayor of Anjozorobe, Dr. Lova Andriamanantsoa, told Xinhua by telephone.

"The victims were in wedding procession when a lorry which transported around 70 relatives of the newlyweds failed a bridge and dropped directly into a river called Mananara," Andriamanantsoa said.

"The newlyweds were also inside the lorry," Andriamanantsoa said, adding that the main reason of the accident is not yet known because the driver also died. "Most of them were killed by suffocation in the water."

In general, in rural areas of Madagascar, there are few cars and the road condition is usually very bad, especially during the rainy season. Only lorry is practicable to transport many people, a reason why the family rented a lorry to transport their guests during the wedding.
By Tao Jun, Dong

HO CHI MINH CITY, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- Yellow and red flowers, fruits and ornamental trees, including unique ones from Vietnam and China, were dominating displays in many markets here on Tet, the Lunar New Year.

In the flower market temporarily formed before Tet, the weeklong Lunar New Year holiday, which will wrap up on Feb. 1, yellow kumquats, the little gold gems of the citrus family, apricot blossoms, and marigolds could be seen everywhere in the September 20 Park Ho Chi Minh City.

Pink, red and peach blossoms transported from Vietnam's northern region or China were not the main colors of choice, but were also luring many local buyers.

"Some days ago, I spent over one million Vietnamese dong (some 50 U.S. dollars) buying an apricot tree full of flowers because yellow apricot blossoms are a symbol of Tet in the southern region like peach blossoms are in the northern region," 50-year-old Saigonese accountant, Nguyen Thi Phuong, told Xinhua.

"Now, seeing all the bargains, I want to buy a Chinese red peach tree," she said, pointing to the little low tree with impressive red flowers.

In addition to Chinese red peach trees, some other Chinese ornamental trees were selling like hot cakes, not only in parks in Ho Chi Minh City, but also in other Vietnamese localities, especially in the capital city of Hanoi.

In the flower and ornamental tree market near the traditional silk village of Van Phuc in Hanoi, a species of tree, whose scientific name is Ardisia crenata, but known locally as "kim ngan luong", were on display in large quantities.

Each tree has hundreds of small, shining red fruits hanging loosely around its trunk from the middle section downward.

"Kim ngan luong are Vietnamese words of Chinese origin meaning gold and silver, so it is considered a feng shui tree which is believed to bring prosperity and luck. This species is grown in some Asian countries, but we always import the most beautiful trees from China," the shop's owner Nguyen Van Manhtold Xinhua.

"This Tet, our shop has sold over 100 trees at prices of around 300,000 Vietnamese dong (some 13 U.S. dollars) each," the shop owner said.

The Hanoian man with a weather-beaten face pointed at a young woman who was putting two "kimngan luong" high trees in her car trunk and said: "She works for a state-owned bank and told me that she will offer that pair of trees to her boss on the occasion of Tet."

Besides flowers which are thought to bring luck and prosperity, fruits with unique characteristics were also selling well during Tet.

An ordinary coconut is priced at some 15,000 Vietnamese dong (around 0.6 U.S. dollars), but this Tet, some Vietnamese farmers have succeeded in creating coconuts whose shells have been developed into characters and sold them for about 300,000 Vietnamese dong (13.5 U.S. dollars) each.

"This Tet, I have sold over 2,200 coconut trees with the characters "Tai-Loc" to traders in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. And they can sell them at much higher prices," 31-year-old farmer, Huynh Thanh Tam, from ChauThanh town in the southern Ben Tre province, said.

Tam said he started to make the special coconut trees in 2014. He conducted research himself and used various kinds of molds to create characters on the coconuts' shells.

After dozens of failures over a period of two years, he succeeded at last.

"I choose the two characters 'Tai-Loc' because many Vietnamese people want to have 'Tai" and "Loc', especially on the occasion of Tet," he said. The two Vietnamese characters have Chinese origin and they mean money and perquisite.

Other Vietnamese farmers have managed to grow other kinds of fruits with images or characters on their shells or skins. And the most common image is a rooster because this lunar new year is the year of rooster.

In southern Tien Giang province, the 26-member fruit club in Phu Tan commune, Chau Thanh district has produced 3,300 "Tai-Loc" grapefruits and calabash tree fruits.

"We sell a pair of "Dao tien" (crescentia cujete, more commonly known as the calabash tree that is native to Central and South America) at prices of 0.5-1 million Vietnamese dong (22.4-44.8 U.S. dollars)," said the club's chairman Vo Trung Thanh.

According to another Vietnamese farmer named Vo Hong Quoc, local people often grow "Dao tien" as an ornamental tree or make traditional medicine from the tree.

"Its fruit is round, but this Tet I made them shaped like a gourd with two distinctive parts. Next Tet, I will shape them like gold bars to sell them at higher prices," the 77-year-old man said.
United States' Serena Williams poses with the trophy during the awarding ceremony after winning the women's singles final match between Venus Williams and Serena Williams at the Australian Open tennis championships in Melbourne, Australia, Jan. 28, 2017. Serena Williams won 2-0 and claimed the title. (Xinhua/Lui Siu Wai)

MELBOURNE, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- Serena Williams won her 23rd grand slam title in straight sets to regain her world No. 1 crown, defeating elder sister Venus in 82 minutes to claim the Australian Open title on Saturday as celebrations for the Year of the Rooster begin.

An error prone opening where neither player could hold serve until Venus in the fifth point crescendoed into a code violation against Serena for smashing and breaking her racquet into the court. The release of frustration helped the newly crowned champion however, with both women regaining composure until Serena broke at 4-3 with a cross-court winner, holding serve for the rest of the set.

"I didn't think I hit (the racket) that hard," Serena told local television network Channel Seven after claiming the Australian Open crown 6-4, 6-4, discussing the dynamics of the early stress against Venus.

"This (was) by far my toughest match, she's such a great opponent."

The sisters again had chances to break each other's serves early in the second set, however aggression on either end ensued, leading to the longest rallies of the match and balls being pushed just wide of the tape.

Serena eventually capitalised on a Venus mistake to break serve at 4-3, before holding off a resurgent world no. 17 who had the opportunity to break back in just the next point. Though the crowd was overwhelmingly Venus to respond to the pressure and send it to a third, she had a miss-hit off her forehand to give Serena match point, before sending the ball just wide off her backhand.

"I feel like I had opportunities, for sure, (but I) just missed some shots," Venus told reporters.

"But it's not like I missed shots that I wasn't going for, I went for those shots. It's a matter of inches.

"Some errors here or there can mean the difference between a break of serve or a hold."

It's the first time the sisters have played each other since the quarter final of the 2015 U.S. Open and the first time in Melbourne since their all-Williams final 2003, where Serena won on both occasions. Serena also holds the ledger over her younger sister winning 17 of their 28 meetings, including Saturday's Australian Open final.

Serena regains world No. 1 crown from Germany's Angelique Kerber who fell in straight sets to American Coco Vandeweghe in round 4 and overtakes Steffi Graf to become the second most crowned women's singles players, an impressive feat for someone born in 1981, also the Year of the Rooster.

The world No. 1 heads home Sunday to begin preparations for Indian Wells in March, disparaged she'll miss watching the battle between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal to claim glory in the men's final, but hoping the form continues.

"I was feeling good about my game, I don't want it to stop, I want to keep it going," Williams told reporters, adding she isn't yet thinking about the prospects of a calendar grand slam.

"I don't think about that... just one at a time."

Saturday's final was Venus' first since Wimbledon in 2009, where Serena too defeated her in straight sets. Wimbledon played host to Venus' first semifinal appearance in nearly eight years in 2016, a great comeback after taking time off court to recover after being diagnosed with with Sjogren's Syndrome 2011, an autoimmune disease that causes fatigue and joint pain.

"I feel motivated to continue, to continue to go out there and hit the ball the way I know I can," Venus said, adding she's "ready to kill it this year, that's my goal."

"I feel I played very well this week, pulled a lot of things out of my pocket... (but) I got more stuff in my pocket."
ABUJA, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese community in Nigeria on Saturday held a carnival-like celebration to mark the beginning of Chinese Lunar New Year 2017, Year of the Rooster.

In Abuja, Nigeria's capital, the event, organized by the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, witnessed a large turnout of Chinese citizens, local Nigerian officials, and students.

It was the first of several events outlined for the celebration of what is also known as the Spring Festival observed by the Chinese people.

The revelers, who gathered at the China Cultural Center tucked in the central business area of Abuja city, were enthralled by an exhibition of the Chinese culture and various Chinese and Nigerian art performances as well as the Chinese traditional lion dance performed by students of the Government Girls Secondary School in the Nigerian town of Dutse.

Zhou Pingjian, Chinese ambassador to Nigeria, told Xinhua the celebration was to mark the beginning of good things to come.

In an earlier message to congratulate China, the Chinese community in Nigeria and the world over on the Chinese lunar new year, Nigerian leader Muhammadu Buhari noted the Spring Festival is the most important traditional festival for the Chinese. The celebration emphasizes the concept of family and the opportunity of reunion -- values shared by both Nigeria and China, Buhari wrote in a statement released by his office last Sunday.

The Spring Festival has gained popularity in most cities in Nigeria due to the sense of anticipation and excitement shared by the Chinese community in the West African country for the festival and the way it is colorfully celebrated every year.

The Chinese new year celebrations are emblematic of the cultural tradition, heritage and aesthetic aspirations of the Chinese nation, abounding in distinctive Chinese symbols of great emotional appeal.

The tradition of such celebrations by Chinese dates back to more than 4,000 years and includes displaying fireworks, Chinese new year couplets, preparing Jiaozi (the Chinese dumplings) and having the family reunion dinner on the new year's eve.
TEHRAN, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) began the test of advanced generation of IR-8 centrifuges by injecting uranium hexafluoride (UF6), Iranian Students News Agency reported on Saturday.

"In line with the development of Iran's peaceful nuclear program, the Islamic republic began an important stage of research and development of the advanced generation of IR-8 centrifuges," AEOI said in a statement.

The statement said that this important stage of nuclear enrichment research and development is based on rights and commitments within the JCPOA, known commonly as the Iran nuclear deal.

The international agreement on the nuclear program of Iran was reached in Vienna on July 14, 2015 between Iran, the P5+1 (the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council -- China, France, Russia, United Kingdom, United States -- plus Germany) and the European Union.
SRINAGAR, Indian-controlled Kashmir, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- Five Indian troopers, who went missing in snow Saturday were rescued alive by the search teams near Line of Control (LoC), dividing Kashmir, officials said.

The troopers were trapped and lost communication with their base camp after a snowbound track they were walking on caved in at Machil sector of frontier Kupwara district, about 165 km northwest of Srinagar city, the summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir.

"All the five soldiers were successfully rescued and are presently under treatment," an army official said.

The troopers were part of a routine patrol in the area.

Indian army spokesman Col Rajesh Kalia told Xinhua following the incident, rescue teams immediately launched searches to trace trapped troopers.

On Wednesday 15 troopers were killed after avalanches hit them at three different places in Gurez and Sonamarg.

It took two days for army rescue teams to retrieve bodies from the snow mounds in Gurez.

LoC is a de facto border that divides Kashmir into India and Pakistan controlled parts.

Kashmir has a rugged terrain. Landslides and avalanches are often triggered from its mountains during frequent rains and heavy snowfal.
ISLAMABAD, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said that China and Pakistan are now bonded through ever strong friendship, according to a statement from the Chinese embassy in Islamabad on Saturday.

On behalf of the people and government of Pakistan, the prime minister expressed his good wishes for the people, leadership and the Chinese government on the advent of new Lunar year being celebrated in China.

He also said that the bilateral partnership in the form of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor will prove to be a historical milestone in the Pak-China bilateral relations.
MADRID, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- The Barcelona Town Hall has approved a radical plan in an attempt to control the ever increasing number of tourists visiting the city and region.

The new plan, approved on Friday, aims to reduce the pressure of visitors in key neighborhoods, such as the Barceloneta, while allowing locals quality public space and freedom from noise.

The city of Barcelona has around 1.6 million inhabitants by the end of 2015. While the visitors to the city had grown to just under 9 million in 2015, from 1.7 million in 1990, according to the Barcelona Tourist Authority.

Spain had received a record number of visitors in 2016, with Catalonia the most popular region. The number of visitors to Barcelona would certainly surpass the 9-million mark in 2016.

In addition, tens of thousands of passengers from cruise ships had spent a handful of hours in Barcelona, visiting the most famous sites, but not making an overnight stay.

The overcrowding in the city has long been a source of conflicts in certain areas of the city, such as the "Barceloneta" region, where many flats have been converted into tourist apartments.

Locals complain about the noise and poor behavior of many visitors. Meanwhile, the famous Boqueria market has been forced to limit the number of tourist groups to avoid overcrowding.

The Town Hall has established a series of areas, such as the Barrio Gotico (Old Town) and Port area, where no new tourist accommodation will be allowed.

In other areas, such as Sagrada Familia and the increasingly popular Poble Nou, any accommodation which closes will be allowed to be replaced, but with no increase in capacity.

In a third zone on the periphery of the town, tourist accommodation will be allowed to be built, as long as it remains within established limits of tourist density.

While welcomed by residents' associations, the plan has been criticized by organizations such as the Barcelona Hotel Association and the Council for Trade, Service and Tourism.

These organizations argue that tourism is a "key activity" for Barcelona and that controls could threaten both income and the creation of employment.
Lavrov said during a recent meeting with representatives of the Syrian opposition that the document sums up constitutional proposals of both the Syrian government and opposition groups. (AFP photo)

DAMASCUS, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- The Syrian draft constitution put forward by Russia is seen by many analysts as a reminder of the Paul Bremer constitution for Iraq following the 2003 invasion by the United States.

Russian circulated a draft resolution to the Syrian delegations who were attending the Russia-Turkey sponsored negotiations in Astana, Kazakhstan, last week.

The draft constitution wasn't made public during the negotiations, but Russian media outlets leaked parts of it.

Russia Today (RT) said the draft constitution highlights territorial integrity, separation of political powers as well as respect for minority's rights and international treaties.

It said the constitution envisions that the word "Arab" be omitted from the country's official title, in an apparent way to ease the fears of the Kurdish minority in Syria.

Speaking of the Kurds, the proposed constitution says that "state bodies and organizations of the Kurdish cultural autonomy are using Kurdish and Arabic languages equally" and that the status of the Kurdish autonomy "is defined by law."

As for the president's full executives, the draft constitution indicates that the executive branch of power in the country is represented by the president and his government.

The president is elected by a public vote and can serve a maximum of two terms with seven years each, said RT, adding that the People's Assembly serves as a parliament, passing laws which later should be forwarded for approval to the Assembly of Territories and then to the president.

It says the country's leader can be stripped of his powers by the Assembly of Territories in case the People's Assembly formally accuses the leader of committing "treason" or any other "severe crime."

The highest part of the Judiciary is the Constitutional Court, which among others oversees the legality of laws, decrees and other forms of legislation. The proposed Russian draft notes that all judges are "independent."

In short, the proposed constitution gives more executive power to the parliament and secures a Kurdish autonomy.

When asked in Astana by Kurdish reporters about the Kurdish autonomy in Syria, the head of the Syrian delegation, Bashar Jaafary, said the subject is rejected, as establishing an autonomy cannot be the choice of the group which wants to have the autonomy, but all Syrians.

Russia defended its draft resolution as based on what it heard from the Syrian government, and the opposition and from the countries of the region over the past few years.

Lavrov said during a recent meeting with representatives of the Syrian opposition that the document sums up constitutional proposals of both the Syrian government and opposition groups.

He stressed that Russia is imposing its draft on no one and the talk is about the proposals called upon to stimulate a discussion on this issue in Syrian talks in Geneva next month.

Still, Syrians, mainly opposition, and Arab observers didn't spare the new move the criticism.

The main criticism is having a foreign country writing a constitution for Syria and removing the word "Arab" from the title of the country Syrian Arab Republic, among others.

Faisal Qassem, a Qatar-based Syrian journalist opposing the Syrian government, said in a recent post on Twitter that the new draft constitution is similar to the constitution put forward in Iraq by Paul Bremer, the leader of the U.S. occupation authority of Iraq during the 2003 U.S. invasion of the country.

He said both constitutions aimed at "abolishing the Arab identity in the region."

Abdul-Bari Atwan, a London-based Palestinian journalist, said in a recent report that the "Russians are repeating the experience of Paul Bremer in Iraq, which sown sectarian seeds in the country and divided it into regions in the form of federalization, and paved the way for a self rule to the Kurds that constituted the bases of independence (for the Kurds) and later a (possible) separation."

He added that choosing the Astana talks to circulate the draft resolution in the Arabic language to the Syrian delegations indicates that Russia was serious in putting it forth, as it will be the spine of the settlement and the feature of the "new Syria" and its political system.

Atwan said the draft could receive some changes, noting that such amendments would be "marginal."

For his part, Yahia al-Aridi, a Turkey-based Syrian opposition figure and the spokesman of the opposition delegation to Astana, said in a recent interview that maybe Russia was aiming at activating the political atmosphere by presenting this draft resolution, "but for us, any country no matter how big..., when it put a constitution, it's the perfect recipe for sabotaging our country."

"We are witnessing what's happening in Iraq today," he said.

While the opposition made a clear stance toward the proposed constitution, the Syrian government made no comments on the draft presented by its powerful ally, Russia.

Still, some pro-government analysts made some remarks about the draft, largely related to the pride of not having another country proposing a constitution for Syria.

Bassam Abu Abdallah, an international law professor at the Damascus University, said he cannot speak on behalf of the government, but said he personally, as a Syrian citizen, thinks that "It's not the right of any country, even if it's an ally, to write a draft constitution for the Syrian Arab Republic."

Still, Abdallah cited the Russian remarks that the draft constitution comes in the framework of "ideas for negotiations."

He said that the constitution should be discussed among the Syrians, adding that all Syrians reject to have their constitution written by another country.

Isam Takruri, a law professor in Damascus university, said he thinks the Russian Foreign Ministry wasn't right about the terms, "they should have used suggestion, instead of a draft constitution because the suggestion could be proposed by different parties, or countries, but the draft constitution can only be written inside Syria by constituent authority."

"The draft constitution is a sovereign matter, where people in Syria elect a constituent authority and its tasked by the people to put forth a draft constitution and afterwards, this draft resolution would be put for national referendum," he said.
Shia Labeouf Arrested for Pushing Hitler Supporter

Thursday morning, actor and artist Shia Labeouf was arrested outside his art installation at the Museum of Moving Image in New York City after he barely assaulted an apparent Hitler supporter. This incident coincides with the vehement social media debate currently underway regarding whether it is okay to assault Nazis.

Shia was standing near his interactive exhibit, when the Hitler supporter called him over seemingly to take a selfie. When Shia went over to him, the Hitler support says to Shia: "Hitler did nothing wrong." At that point, Shia can be seen pushing the man away. The man called police, alleging that Shia pulled his scarf and scratched his face, though the video shows Shia trying to push himself away from the Hitler supporter.

Is Pushing Really Illegal?

Yes. Pushing someone is actually illegal. In fact, any form of unwanted touching, if it is intended to cause harm, generally is considered illegal. While incidental touching, like what happens when people are crammed together on a bus, may be unwanted, it is not illegal unless someone is intentionally groping or harassing.

Shia was arrested, but simply cited and released. He is expected to appear in court on April 4, 2017 to face charges for assault and harassment. However, due to the scant footage and facts available at this time, the charges may not materialize, or may be dropped.

Shia's Interactive Exhibit Sparks Debate

Shia set up an interactive exhibit outside the Museum of Moving Images that asks visitors to repeat the mantra "He will not divide us" into a camera. The camera records the visitors and continuously plays back the mantra 24/7. The mantra is in reference to Donald Trump being elected president and the political division that has come about as a result. Shia is hoping to keep the exhibit going during Trump's entire presidency as a form of protest and as a way to remind people to remain united as a nation.

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TOKYO, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and U.S. President Donald Trump on Saturday agreed to hold their first summit meeting in Washington on Feb.10, said Abe here after telephone talks with Trump on Saturday.

The two leaders made the agreement during their 42-minute long telephone conversation starting from 11:05 p.m. (1405 GMT) on Saturday, the first such talks since Trump sworn in as 45th U.S. president last week.

Both sides also affirmed the importance of Japan-U.S. alliance and exchanged views in economic and security fields, Abe told reporters here after the call.

As for the two leads summit talks next month, Abe said he hoped to significantly and frankly exchange views with Trump in the fields including bilateral economic and security ties.

The Japanese Prime Minister also said he hope Japan will play its due role as U.S. alliance.
Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe meets with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump (R) at Trump Tower in Manhattan, New York, U.S., November 17, 2016. (Xinhua/Reuters)

TOKYO, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and U.S. President Donald Trump on Saturday agreed to hold their first summit meeting in Washington on Feb.10, said Abe here after telephone talks with Trump on Saturday.

The two leaders made the agreement during their 42-minute long telephone conversation starting from 11:05 p.m. (1405 GMT) on Saturday, the first such talks since Trump sworn in as 45th U.S. president last week.

Both sides affirmed the importance of Japan-U.S. alliance and exchanged views in economic and security fields, Abe told reporters here after the call.

As for the two leaders' summit talks next month, Abe said he hoped to meaningfully and frankly exchange views with Trump in the fields including bilateral economic and security ties.

The Japanese Prime Minister also said he hope Japan will play its due role as U.S. alliance.

Japan's Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Hagiuda Koichi said after the call that Abe, in Saturday's telephone talk, also explained contribution of Japan's automobile industry to the United States.

The leaders think that the Japan-U.S. economic relationship is important, said Koichi.

However, the two leaders didn't get into any detailed conversations on issues such as the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) and Free Trade Agreement (FTA), said the deputy chief cabinet secretary.

During the telephone talk, Trump stressed that Japan-U.S. alliance is important and Japan is important partner for the United States, said Koichi.

Japan has been eager to repair relations with Trump, as the nation has largely bet its support on Hillary Clinton in the U.S. Presidential election and Trump's win has caught it off guard.

Soon after Trump's victory in the U.S. presidential election, Abe held unofficial talks with the U.S. president-elect in New York in November last year.

Trump on Monday signed an executive order to officially withdraw U.S. from the TPP trade deal as part of his efforts to protect American jobs.

The TPP, which Abe has backed enthusiastically, is a free trade pact between 12 Asia-Pacific countries and was formally signed by ministers from these 12 countries in last February after more than five years' negotiation.
WASHINGTON, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will meet with U.S. President Donald Trump on Feb. 10 in Washington, the White House said Saturday.

Trump spoke with Abe on the phone Saturday to discuss the importance of the U.S.-Japan alliance and cooperation on regional and global issues, the White House said in a statement, adding that Trump affirmed the "ironclad" U.S. commitment to ensuring the security of Japan.

The two leaders also committed to deepen the bilateral trade and investment relationship and agreed to consult and cooperate on the threat posed by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, according to the statement.

Soon after Trump's victory in the U.S. presidential election in November, Abe held unofficial talks with the then U.S. president-elect in New York.
U.S. actress and special envoy to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Angelina Jolie (1st R) talks to children during a visit to a Syrian refugee camp in Azraq, Jordan, on Sept. 9, 2016. (Xinhua/Mohammad Abu Ghosh)

PARIS, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault on Saturday said U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to curb refugees flows are worrying.

At a joint press conference with his visiting German counterpart Sigmar Gabriel, Ayrault said Trump's decision to halt immigration and refugees from some Muslim-majority countries "can only worry us".

"We have international commitments that we have signed. Welcoming refugees fleeing the war, oppression is part of our duties," Ayrault added.

Ayrault and Sigmar Gabriel discussed in Paris "what (they) are going to do" to face Trump administration uncertainty in handling major international issues such as Iran nuclear deal, Russia sanctions, Middle East conflict and peace accord in Syria.

Trump signed an executive order Friday enacting a vetting process for refugees coming into the United States, in the name of guarding against terrorist threats.

The White House released no details of the document. But U.S. media reports suggested that the order may include an indefinite ban on Syrian refugees and a four-month ban on all refugees as the U.S. government assesses the level of risks in each country.

Reports have also suggested that the United States would refrain from giving visas to citizens of Iran, Sudan, Syria, Libya, Somalia, Yemen and Iraq.
Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe meets with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump (R) at Trump Tower in Manhattan, New York, U.S., November 17, 2016. (Xinhua/Reuters)

WASHINGTON, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will meet with U.S. President Donald Trump on Feb. 10 in Washington, the White House said Saturday.

Trump spoke with Abe on the phone Saturday to discuss the importance of the U.S.-Japan alliance and cooperation on regional and global issues, the White House said in a statement, adding that Trump affirmed the "ironclad" U.S. commitment to ensuring the security of Japan.

The two leaders also committed to deepen the bilateral trade and investment relationship and agreed to consult and cooperate on the threat posed by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, according to the statement.

Soon after Trump's victory in the U.S. presidential election in November, Abe held unofficial talks with the then U.S. president-elect in New York.
CAIRO, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- The Egyptian airport authorities barred an Iraqi family from flying to the United States on Saturday, a day after U.S. President Donald Trump ordered restriction of visitors from seven Muslim countries, according to an airport source.

"As per a request from the American authorities, EgyptAir as a carrier provides a list of those seeking to travel to the United States and the American side decides accordingly," the source at Cairo International Airport told Xinhua, adding that it's a procedure applied all over the world.

He said the decision to prevent the Iraqi couple and their two children from flying to the United States "is made by the U.S. authorities according to the list."

On Friday, new U.S. President Donald Trump signed an order to suspend the entry of travellers from seven Muslim countries: Syria, Iraq, Yemen, Libya, Sudan, Somalia and Iran.

The Egyptian authorities have not yet received any new relevant instructions, but they keep sending the list of travellers before a flight to the U.S. takes off, according to the source.

The relations between Egypt and the United States are expected to improve under Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi and U.S. President Donald Trump, as both leaders have exchanged praise and promises of mutual support and share similar views on various issues including fighting terrorism.
by Samuel Egadu, Ronald Ssekandi

KAMPALA, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- There is simmering tension as former fighters of the M23 rebel group flee from a Ugandan military camp back to eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo).

DR Congo authorities argue that this may lead to resumption of subversive activities by the former fighters who were defeated by the Congolese and UN troops before fleeing to Uganda in late 2013.

Lambert Mende Omalanga, the Congolese government spokesperson, told reporters in Kinshasa, DR Congo capital this week that hundreds of ex-M23 fighters, including its military leader, Sultani Makenga, who had been exiled in Uganda, sneaked to their former bases in eastern DR Congo.

The Uganda government on Jan. 19 said it had arrested 101 former M23 fighters as they attempted to cross back to the DR Congo.

"These people were arrested on their way back aboard taxi minibuses as normal passengers. On questioning them, all of them were found to be former M23 combatants," said Ofwono Opondo, a Ugandan government spokesman, told Xinhua.

The arrest came days after some 40 former fighters escaped back to the central African country.

The incident is likely to cause a diplomatic row between the authorities in Uganda and DR Congo.

Uganda has "no sinister motive against" DR Congo, said Opondo. "These are individuals who were trying to escape against the agreed modalities and agreement. We still don't know the motive of their escape."

After several months of fighting back in 2013 that sparked a refugee influx into Uganda, the M23 and DR Congo government signed a peace agreement mediated by Uganda.

To fuse the simmering tension, Ugandan and DR Congo authorities are said to be in talks.

Henry Obbo, Uganda's deputy army spokesman told Xinhua in an interview that the two governments are in talks over the repatriation of the former fighters.

"The ministry of foreign affairs (Uganda) is working closely with the Congolese authorities on the return of the M23. The two government signed agreements in 2014 regarding the M23. We are waiting for what will be agreed and action will be taken," Obbo said.

Uganda, DR Congo and M23 reached an agreement in 2014 regarding the return of 1,377 former rebels camped at Bihanga military training school in the western district of Ibanda for disarmament, demobilization and reintegration back home.

Of the 1,377 ex-combatants only 200 have been returned home for official disarmament, demobilization and reintegration program.

Eastern DR Congo has got a string of rebel groups that cause mayhem in the central African country.
CAIRO, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- The Egyptian military said on Saturday that at least four Egyptian soldiers and 20 militants were killed during five-day anti-terror military raids in restive North Sinai Province bordering Israel and the Gaza Strip.

The raids launched in North Sinai and central Sinai also wounded seven militants, arrested 36 suspected terrorists, detonated five explosive devices and destroyed 28 hiding houses, eight vehicles, four warehouses of explosives and ammunition and two relevant workshops, military spokesman Tamer al-Refaay said in a statement.

Anti-government terror attacks have been growing in Egypt since the mid-2013 military removal of former Islamist President Mohamed Morsi in response to mass protests.

Later crackdown on Morsi's supporters left about 1,000 of them killed and thousands more in custody.

Since early January, at least 21 police and military personnel have been killed in blasts and confrontations in North Sinai and New Valley province, about 500 km south of the capital Cairo.

Most of the terrorist attacks were claimed by a Sinai-based militant group loyal to the Islamic State.

Security campaigns in Sinai killed over 1,300 militants and arrested a similar number of suspects over the past couple of years as part of the country's anti-terror war declared by former army chief and current President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi following Morsi's ouster.
OTTAWA, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Saturday that his country will welcome "those fleeing persecution, terror and war," regardless of their faith.

Trudeau's message to refugees came a day after U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order putting a four-month hold on allowing refugees into the United States and temporarily barring travellers from seven countries.

"To those fleeing persecution, terror & war, Canadians will welcome you, regardless of your faith. Diversity is our strength #WelcomeToCanada," Trudeau tweeted.
Trump's First Week as President

Chaos. Intense. Executive overdrive. A reality show. There are a lot of ways to describe President Donald Trump's first week in office, from the absence of his wave from Air Force One to his social media presence in a public spat with Mexico's president. However you characterize the new president's first seven days, he has been a busy man.

As of January 26, Trump has issued 13 "Presidential Actions," including executive orders, proclamations, and memoranda outlining executive action that can be taken without congressional input. While some orders may never be heeded, others have immediate, real-world consequences. Here are three big legal and policy changes from the Trump administration's first week in Washington and what they might mean for you.

The new president's first attack on the old president's signature piece of legislation, this order directs government officials to "waive, defer, grant exemptions from, or delay the implementation" of some key Obamacare provisions. While the table is being set to repeal Obamacare completely, Trump has yet to propose a replacement plan, meaning millions could be left without health insurance.

After Obama put the Dakota Pipeline on hold amidst a contentious standoff between protestors and security forces, the Trump administration is full steam ahead on pipeline construction. Trump issued memos to initiate the completion of the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL) and restart the Keystone XL Pipeline project, and it's doubtful that his directive that construction on those pipelines "use materials and equipment produced in the United States, to the maximum extent possible" will assuage the misgivings of activists and environmentalists.

Trump is pushing forward with his plan to "secure the southern border of the United States through the immediate construction of a physical wall." Trump's inverted Statute of Liberty will be "a contiguous, physical wall or other similarly secure, contiguous, and impassable physical barrier" spanning the U.S. border with Mexico. And despite claims that Mexico will fund the construction, the order directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to:

(b) Identify and, to the extent permitted by law, allocate all sources of Federal funds for the planning, designing, and constructing of a physical wall along the southern border;

(c) Project and develop long-term funding requirements for the wall, including preparing Congressional budget requests for the current and upcoming fiscal years;

So it looks like the U.S., i.e. American taxpayers, will be paying for the wall, and possibly more for our margaritas as well:

Simply put, any policy proposal which drives up costs of Corona, tequila, or margaritas is a big-time bad idea. Mucho Sad. (2) -- Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) January 26, 2017

Related Resources:
Russian President Vladimir Putin attends his annual news conference in Moscow, Russia, on Dec. 23, 2016. (Xinhua/Bai Xueqi)

MOSCOW, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump agreed to stabilize and deepen bilateral cooperation during a phone conversation on Saturday, the Kremlin said.

"The two sides expressed willingness to work actively together to stabilize and develop Russian-American cooperation on a constructive basis, as equals, and to mutual benefit," the Kremlin said in a statement issued after their first phone conversation since Trump's inauguration last week.

Putin and Trump highlighted the priority of joint efforts in the fight against the main threat of international terrorism during the call, which was widely scrutinized to see if there will be a thaw in the soured relations during the Obama administration.

"The Presidents called for establishing a real coordination of U.S. and Russian actions to defeat the Islamic State and other terrorist groups in Syria," the statement read.

They also stressed the importance of restoring mutually beneficial trade and economic ties between business communities of the two countries, which could further boost development of bilateral relations.

Russian and American people see each other positively, said the two leaders, who agreed to maintain regular personal contacts. Both sides are working to set possible date and venue for a Putin-Trump meeting.

The presidents discussed and agreed to cooperate in the fight against terrorism, the situation in the Middle East, the Arab-Israeli conflict, the Iranian nuclear program, the Korean Peninsula issue and the Ukrainian crisis.

"The conversation took place in a positive and businesslike manner," said the Kremlin statement.

Russian ties with the United States and other NATO members experienced a record low during the Obama administration, mainly due to the Crimea issue, the Ukrainian crisis and the hacking accusations.

In the last weeks of Obama's presidency, the United States expelled Russian diplomats and expanded economic sanctions.

Putin was among the first leaders of major powers to send congratulations to Trump after the result of the U.S. presidential election was announced in November.

During a call in mid-November, Putin and the then U.S. president-elect agreed that the current ties between Russian and the United States "could not get worse" and vowed to help "stimulate a return to pragmatic, mutually beneficial cooperation."

Related:

Putin slams Obama administration for attempting to sink Trump

MOSCOW, Jan. 17 (Xinhua) -- The outgoing U.S. administration of Barack Obama has been attempting to "undermine the legitimacy" of Donald Trump's presidency and to ruin his policy, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Tuesday just days before Obama leaves office.
An artist performs Tai Chi to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year in downtown Rome, Italy, Jan. 28, 2017. (Xinhua/Jin Yu)

by Alessandra Cardone

ROME, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- A cheerful parade through the city center kicked off the celebrations for the Chinese New Year in the Italian capital on Saturday, which has lately become a traditional and long-awaited event here.

Dancers, martial artists and acrobats from China's Henan province performed before a large crowd, which then gathered in Piazza del Popolo in the city's historic heart.

Organized by the Chinese Embassy in Italy with the patronage of the Italian ministry of culture, the feast represented one of the key events marking the beginning of the Year of the Rooster across the country.

"This is the fourth or the fifth time I have come, I am not sure... and it is always great fun," Marinella, a pensioner from Rome, told Xinhua.

This year, she said she wanted to bring her two-year-old nephew Sami as well, to allow him to get a "first touch" of a different culture.

Though looking a little scared by the acrobats performing amazing contortions on the stage, the child visibly enjoyed the music, colorful masks and the presence of so many other children around him.

One of the largest celebrations of the Spring Festival in Europe has been held in Rome in the latest years. The 2017 indeed marked the seventh edition of this festivity in the Italian capital, as Chinese Ambassador to Italy Li Ruiyu recalled in a brief welcome message to the spectators.

"This is a day of joy and happiness also for the city of Rome," Li told the audience."The 2017 is the Year of the Rooster, which, in Chinese traditional culture, symbolizes patience, strength, courage, compassion and reliability," he added.

On her side on the stage, Rome mayor Virginia Raggi also stressed the symbolic and cultural value of the event.

"We know the rooster symbolizes, among other things, industriousness and business attitude," the mayor said.

"These traits are best represented by the Chinese people, and by the Chinese community that is one of the largest and most integrated in our city."

Welcoming the arrival of the 2017 Lunar New Year, or Spring Festival, meant something slightly different, according to the people in the square.

For many children around, it was a way to play together and experience a show unusual for them.

For Ivan Illomei, 38, it was a chance to get in touch again with the Chinese culture, which he appreciated.

"I have worked twice as a communication expert in China -- for some six months and four months, respectively -- and I have learned to love it."

"Today, I wanted to bring also my two daughters to enjoy all of this," Illomei told Xinhua.

Diana and Sofia, his little girls, said they were especially captured by a graceful female dancer performing acrobatics, and by the Kung Fu athletes.

To Mr. Hu and his two sons, on the other hand, the celebrations in Piazza del Popolo were an occasion to rejoin their own roots. The entrepreneur has been living and working in Rome for the last three years.

"This is a good opportunity to reconnect with our own traditions and home culture, and especially for my two children," Hu said.
Maintenance workers wait at the entrance of Ain Fijeh town, countryside of Damascus, Syria, to enter the town to fix the Ain Fijeh spring, the main water source feeding Damascus' over five million inhabitants on Jan. 28, 2017. As many as 900 people including rebels and their families are set to evacuate a water-rich town northwest of the capital Damascus on Sunday, as part of a deal with the government, sources familiar with the evacuation told Xinhua on Saturday. (Xinhua/Ammar Safarjalani)

DAMASCUS, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- As many as 900 people including rebels and their families are set to evacuate a water-rich town northwest of the capital Damascus on Sunday, as part of a deal with the government, sources familiar with the evacuation told Xinhua on Saturday.

The evacuation will take place in the Ain Fijeh town in the Barada Valley region near Damascus, said the sources, adding that the number includes 150 rebels, while the rest are their families.

They will leave Ain Fijeh toward rebel-held areas in the northwestern province of Idlib.

This comes as the Syrian army reached the Ain Fijeh spring in the town on Saturday, hoisting the Syrian flag over that area following a month of battles with rebels there to capture that area and restore drinking water to Damascus, a military source told Xinhua.

The Syrian army entered Ain Fijeh, after reaching an "initial" agreement with the rebels there for their evacuation from that area, the source said, on condition of anonymity.

He added that maintenance workers are bracing to enter the village to fix the Ain Fijeh spring, the main water source feeding the capital's over five million inhabitants.

The recent development comes as battles have raged since Dec. 22, when the water was cut off from the capital, with the government accusing the rebels of the al-Qaida-linked Nusra Front of severing the flow of water to Damascus.

The battles were penetrated with a few pauses, in which efforts were being exerted to reach a deal with the rebels. However, all previous efforts had failed without achieving its intended goals, as the rebels of Nusra were reluctant to leave the area, insisting on rendering flat all efforts to defuse the tension in that area.

It's worth mentioning that several rebel groups were stationing in Barada Valley, with most of them establishing reconciliation with the government, except Nusra, which is designated as a terror group by the UN and excluded from a currently-underway cease-fire that began on Dec. 30.

Ain Fijeh is one of ten towns in the Barada Valley region northwest of Damascus. The army captured all of the towns, before finally reaching Ain Fijeh.

Now, the army seems in control of the spring, and the workers will start fixing the damage, as a prelude to resuming the water flow to Damascus, whose residents have been struggling with the scarcity of water since Dec. 22.

The water authorities have implemented emergency plans to meet around 30 percent of the daily needs of Damascus city residents on a rotational basis until water infrastructure is restored to its previous capacity.

Damascus Countryside Governor Ala'a Ibrahim said Saturday that bomb squads are combing the area to clear the spring of mines and explosives.

The governor confirmed that the maintenance teams are expected to enter the spring on Sunday morning to repair damage to the facility of Ain Fijeh spring after the engineering units are done combing the area.

For his part, Minister of Water Resources Nabil al-Hassan said that maintenance teams are waiting for the final report by the army units inside the spring on clearing it of mines and explosive devices in order to begin repairs.

He pointed out that there will be emergency solutions to return water to Damascus city within hours, adding that full repairs will be carried out gradually afterwards until the spring is fully operational.

He noted that prior assessments indicated that the spring sustained heavy damage and that a full assessment of its condition will start on Sunday morning.
ANKARA, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- Turkey and Britain have achieved an agreement that sets a new framework for cooperation and dialogue between governments in defense and economy, Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim alongside his British counterpart Theresa May announced on Saturday.

Britain signed a framework contract with Turkey to design new fighter jets for Turkey, Yildirim said at a joint press conference following a meeting in Ankara, adding that the step will help take cooperation in defense to a further stage.

Both countries have vowed to strengthen the cooperation on security through a new strategic security partnership, including intelligence sharing, aviation security and domestic security, state-run Anadolu Agency reported.

Turkey will also have a free trade agreement with Britain, following the latter's exit from the EU, Turkish Prime Minister said.

Yildirim stressed that Turkey's allies need to provide more support to and share the refugee burden with the country.

Theresa May described the relations "a vital new partnership" for both countries, noting that it is central to Britain's capacity to tackle the terrorist threat to Britain.

"The relationship between Turkey and Britain has always been important, but it is arguably even more vital today. Turkey sits on the frontline of some of the most difficult and serious challenges we face," the British PM said.

Both countries agreed to establish a trade working group to explore ways in which they can improve bilateral trade.

On Syria, Turkey and Britain decided to work together closely to fight Islamic State.
by Alessandra Cardone

ROME, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- An early vote in Italy would be more likely, after the country's constitutional court revised parts of the electoral law earlier this week, an Italian political analyst said.

"The constitutional court has largely acknowledged the legitimacy of so-called "Italicum" electoral system, which applies to the lower house," Sergio Fabbrini, director of the School of Government at LUISS University in Rome, told Xinhua in a recent interview.

In a written ruling on Jan. 25, the highest court said the runoff in national elections provided by such law is unlawful with respect to the country's constitution.

Fabbrini, who is also a professor of political science and international relations with LUISS, suggested this revision was due to the fact that no such mechanism was provided for the upper house, or the senate, whose election conforms to a different law.

The constitutional judges also declared invalid a provision allowing top candidates to pick up a constituency to represent at their own choice, in case they have run in more electoral colleges.

However, they agreed with a key section of the law providing a 54 percent majority of seats in the lower house to the party winning at least 40 percent of votes. If no one reaches such threshold,

The electoral mechanism would remain proportional.

"The court confirmed the legitimacy of the majority prize for the party reaching the 40 percent threshold, as well as of the chance for top candidates to run in more than one constituency," the analyst pointed out.

As such, the main framework of the law remained untouched. Under this point of view, the ruling would mark a victory for former Prime Minister Matteo Renzi and his center-left Democratic Party (PD), which promoted the approval of the law in 2015, according to Fabbrini.

Those who claimed the "Italicum" would damage democracy for giving too much power to the winning party -- including some respected constitutionalists in the country -- were proved wrong.

"From this perspective, Renzi comes out well, and the same goes for his efforts to make the Italian electoral system more rational," the analyst told Xinhua.

On Wednesday, the court did not explain the reasons behind its decision, but a report with the motivation of the ruling is expected within 30 days.

Yet, the highest judges stated the law so amended would be "susceptible of immediate application." These words prompted new calls for holding general elections in spring or early summer 2017, ahead of the end of the legislature in Feb. 2018.

After suffering a harsh defeat in a referendum on a constitutional reform largely rejected by voters on Dec. 4 last year, Renzi resigned as prime minister. PD's close ally Paolo Gentiloni took the post in mid-December, forming a new cabinet with more or less the same center-left majority.

Since then, most political forces have pressed for early elections, including Renzi's own PD, which is actually the largest force in parliament.

On the other hand, Italian President Sergio Mattarella and other key institutional figures were appealing for the two electoral systems to be "harmonized", before any new election.

According to Fabbrini, the constitutional court's ruling has made the latter option less likely.

"Now, Renzi's PD has an electoral system that can be overall applied, and all efforts to bring this legislature to its natural end in 2018 have lost much room," the professor said.

"Either all parties in parliament agree in a short time on a new law ruling both chambers' election, or the current parliament can be dissolved."

"An early vote becomes more likely also because the two electoral laws (for lower house and upper house) are not homogeneous, yet comparable," he explained.

In fact, the senate's electoral law provides a proportional system, with thresholds of 8 percent of the votes for any party running alone, and 20 percent for coalitions. No majority prize is provided.

Overall, however, Fabbrini said the recent political developments were not likely to make the Italian governing system more stable.

"The risk of political instability remains very high. The rejection of the constitutional reform -- which would have demoted the senate into a non-elected chamber -- will make Italy pay a very high prize from this point of view."

"It was a chance to stabilize the government system, and it was lost," he said.
People watch lion dancing during an event celebrating Chinese Lunar New Year at Smithsonian American Art Museum, Washington D.C., the United States, on Jan. 28, 2017.(Xinhua/Yin Bogu)

WASHINGTON, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- Thousands of people filled the courtyard of the Smithsonian American Art Museum Saturday for a Chinese Lunar New Year celebration, which featured dragon dances and other traditional Chinese folk artforms.

Chinese Ambassador Cui Tiankai and Smithsonian Secretary David Skorton kicked off the event with a dragon awakening ceremony, during which they painted color onto a dragon's eyes.

Chinese Ambassador to the United States Cui Tiankai (L) and Smithsonian Secretary David Skorton dot the eyes of a dancing lion during an event celebrating Chinese Lunar New Year at Smithsonian American Art Museum, Washington D.C., the United States, on Jan. 28, 2017.(Xinhua/Yin Bogu)

"Xin Nian Kuai Le," Skorton wished the some 7,500 visitors happy new year in the Chinese language to mark the Chinese Lunar New Year of the Rooster.

The event, co-organized by the museum and the Chinese embassy, invited Chinese craftsmen from Beijing to make sure that Washingtonians can experience an authentic Chinese festival.

Children learn to draw roosters during an event celebrating Chinese Lunar New Year of Rooster at Smithsonian American Art Museum, Washington D.C., the United States, on Jan. 28, 2017.(Xinhua/Yin Bogu)

With musical performances, dances, paper cutting, calligraphy, painting, dough sculpting and bristle dolls, the event presented both traditional and modern traits of the Chinese culture to its visitors.

Children learn Chinese paper-cutting during an event celebrating Chinese Lunar New Year at Smithsonian American Art Museum, Washington D.C., the United States, on Jan. 28, 2017.(Xinhua/Yin Bogu)

Five-year-old Julia and her older brother Henry, who was seven, made quite a splash at the bustling figure making corner, where they were taught by a Chinese craftsman how to make a crawling caterpillar with only a straw and a piece of paper.

"This is the second year (that I came)," Julia said, happily recounting that last year she had her face painted into a monkey for the Year of the Monkey. "It is so fun!" she said.
People visit the Daguan park in Kunming, capital of southwest China's Yunnan Province, Jan. 28, 2017. Kunming's hospitable weather during the Spring Festival attracted many visitors. (Xinhua/Lin Yiguang)
SOLIDWORKS World 2017 is a great place to sharpen up your SOLIDWORKS skills but its also a great place to learn more about the Partner Solutions that further leverage your investment in SOLIDWORKS software. Our dedicated solutions partners create solutions that meet the needs of SOLIDWORKS users in all industries.

So dont miss blocking out some time while youre at the event to try out some of these amazing products offered by 117 different partners that will extend the value of your software, help you overcome everyday challenges, and increase your ability to innovate. Partner booths will be open from Sunday, February 5 through Wednesday, February 8. If youre looking to preview new technology, solve design challenges or view cool products designed in SOLIDWORKS, visiting the Partner Pavilion is a must.

Leading up to SOLIDWORKS World 2017, were going to publish a handful of blog posts featuring some of the excellent exhibitors you can meet in the Partner Pavilion.

Lenovo



Lenovo is the worlds number-one PC manufacturer offering smartphones, tablets, workstations, monitors, laptops, ThinkPad notebooks, convertible devices, desktops, smart devices. For those that render, only Lenovo can provide 3 NVIDIA Quadro P6000s in a single workstation or for mobile users, Lenovo offers new Mobile Workstations.

Exclusively at SOLIDWORKS World: Check out never-before seen workstations in person and get a hands-on demo, including the latest NVIDIA Quadro Pascal graphics for mobiles, a VR Ready workhorse and a thin and light road warrior. Lenovo will also be showcasing cutting-edge VR technology with partners, such as Virtalis and Waking App.

Be sure to stop by booth #401 to enter to win a Lenovo Yoga Tab 3 10-inch tablet. We will be drawing for the winner at the end of the show, Wednesday, Feb 9th at 1pm.

SOLIDWORKS World 2017 Booth Number: 401

Website URL: www.thinkworkstations.com

Telephone Number: 1-855-253-6686

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/lenovoUS/

Twitter Handle: @thinkstations

CAD Partner & Smap3D Plant Design

CAD Partner from Germany specializes in efficient 3D CAD software deployment for engineering and plant production. The companys product family Smap3D comprehensively covers the spectrum from 3D-pipeline planning (Smap3D Plant Design) to data integration (Smap3D ScanToCAD).

Stop by Booth #428 to see the new versions of Smap3D Plant Design and Smap3D ScanToCAD software. Smap3D Plant Design is the CAD solution for an integrated process chain with P&ID, 3D Piping and Isometrics. Smap3D Plant Design transfers previously generated information and data via automatic connections between the individual programs. The new version of Smap3D Plant includes comprehensive upgrades in P&ID and additional standard parts administration for use with pipe specifications and in Smap3D Pipling. Now bidirectional plausibility checks in the 3D to P&ID link are possible. The new version also includes a components wizard for easy preparation of proprietary 3D standard parts for Smap3D Piping.

SOLIDWORKS World 2017 Booth Number: 428

Website URL: http://www.Smap3D-Plant-Design.com

Telephone Number: 001-408-600-0536

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Smap3DPlantDesign

Twitter Handle: @CAD_PlantDesign

Logopress Corporation



Logopress Corp has focused its business on developing software solutions dedicated to the tool & die industry and to flatten any complex 3D shape. The companys three lines of products includes Logopress3 Die Design for designing and building progressive dies, transfer dies, draw dies, line dies; Logopress3 Flattening (Logopress3F) for flattening complex 3D parts; and

Logopress3 Nesting for nesting anything from flat sheet metal parts to 3D-shaped cakes in a box.

Logopress3 is SOLIDWORKS add-on software designed for die designers and users who need to flatten complex 3D parts and potentially get formability information.

If you are die designer or need to flatten complex 3D parts, stop by Booth #528 to see how Logopress could improve your productivity.

SOLIDWORKS World 2017 Booth Number: 528

Website URL: www.logopress3.com

Telephone Number: (262)938-9316

Solid Professor

Solid Professor provides next-generation learning for teams, schools, and individuals to keep up with rapidly evolving engineering tools and technologies. The companys concise, self-paced video lessons, hands-on exercises, and assessments help users learn and improve skills. Solid Professors comprehensive learning paths create a foundation of best practices and provide a linear learning experience from industry experts. Lessons are self-paced so you can go at your own speed and review lessons as needed. Experienced users develop their skills and increase productivity with SolidProfessors advanced courses and on-demand reference tool.



For SOLIDWORKS users, Solid Professor offers certification prep courses to help them acquire the key software certifications. Be sure to stop by Booth #919 to hear the companys big announcement and to enter a raffle for $100 in cash.



SOLIDWORKS World 2017 Booth Number: 919

Website URL: http://www.SolidProfessor.com

Telephone Number: (619) 269-8684

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/solidpro

Twitter Handle: @solidprofessor

Now that youre familiar with some of our exhibiting partners, heres what you need to know about Partner Pavilion hours to you make the most of your visit to SOLIDWORKS World 2017.

Location: Los Angeles Convention Center South Hall

Hours: Sunday: Welcome Reception/Gameday Party 4:30pm  7:30pm

Monday: 11:30am  4:30pm, Evening Reception: 6:00pm  8:00pm

Tuesday: 11:30am  4:30pm

Wednesday: 10:00am  2:00pm
An official from KIA Brigade 6 confirmed to KNG that the two armies clashes in Kawng Wai, which is under the control of KIA Battalion 36 under Brigade 6 in northern Shan State.

The Burma Armys Infantry Battalion 261, which was marching from Gaung Yi Stream, and KIA Battalion 6 under Brigade 2 also fought fiercely in Phayar Taung of Nam Si Yang near Kar Mai on Mogaung-Hpa-kant Road, according to local residents.

Over 100 military vehicles, which were covered in plastic and believed to be carrying artilleries, departed from Myitkyina to Putao on Sunday.

Local military observers said the Burma Army is preparing to launch an offensive against KIA Brigade 1 in Putao District.

Translated by Thida Linn
More news on the Chinese crackdown on money-laundering and its impact on the global property bubble: the controls the Chinese government has put on "capital outflows" (taking money out of China) are actually working, and there's been a mass exodus of Chinese property buyers from the market, with many abandoning six-figure down payments because they can't smuggle enough money out of the country to make the installment payments.



The market is being kept on life-support by Chinese money-launderers who smuggled their cash out of China before the controls came in; they're using their offshore cash reserves to make payments on the properties they've speculated on (presumably they can access even more capital by remortgaging some of their properties). There are also big-money speculators who have the sophistication needed to circumvent the capital controls.

But the median speculator/money lender is dead in the water, it seems. With demand softening, it is likely that there will be a collapse in housing prices (luxury houses first, but then "normal" properties in overheated markets like Seattle and London, bought as teardowns with the intention of erecting McMansions), which could trigger a cascade of sell-offs. First, because the big-money investors who can evade the controls will see their investments declining in value and liquidity  this latter is very important, as the real-estate bubble has created the historically unique situation in which property is extremely liquid, with owners being able to sell off and get their cash out in a matter of days or weeks, allowing for much more leveraged speculation  and second, because banks will make margin calls on mortgages that are "underwater"  asking for immediate payment in full on properties whose valuation is suddenly lower than the speculators' outstanding debts to the banks.

The more sell-offs, the lower the prices will go, and the more sell-offs there will be. For example, about one third of buyers in London's iconic Spire tower have actually made the payments they had promised to make. If 30+% of units in The Spire suddenly go on the market, the remaining units would likely see a decline in value. Skittish speculators might spook at that point, selling their units, triggering more price declines and more sales.

This also bodes ill for the recent Bitcoin bubble, which has been almost entirely driven by Chinese money-launderers. The Chinese government has the whip-hand over the blockchain. There are Chinese miners who have enough compute-power to compromise the entire ledger, but who choose not to out of a combination of stewardship for the blockchain and self-interest in the continued stability of cryptocurrencies. But these firms could be coerced by Beijing into injecting much mischief into the blockchain as a means of scaring off potential money-launderers from using Bitcoin to evade the capital controls. Just the threat of such action may be enough to make the biggest miners into willing deputies for the official anti-laundering measures, with the companies taking "voluntary" measures to prevent the use of cryptocurrencies to get around export controls (for small-fry launderers, at least  those with political clout may still find a warm welcome in cryptocurrency circles).

"If it's too difficult, I'm out,'' said Mr. Zheng, 66, a retired civil servant in Shanghai who declined to give his first name to avoid attracting regulatory scrutiny. He may abandon a 2.4 million yuan ($348,903) home purchase in western Melbourne, even after shelling out a 300,000 yuan deposit last August. He's due to make another big payment next month. The change spooking Zheng and his compatriots came in a statement from the State Administration of Foreign Exchange on Dec. 31, hours before the reset of Chinese citizens' annual foreign currency quotas. Among other requirements, SAFE said all buyers of foreign exchange must now sign a pledge that they won't use their $50,000 quotas for offshore property investment. Violators will be added to a government watch list, denied access to foreign currency for three years and subjected to money-laundering investigations, SAFE said

For Zheng, the decision on whether to walk away from his Melbourne property or risk breaking China's foreign-exchange rules is fast approaching. He's scheduled to wire another 800,000 yuan to Australia in late February to cover the rest of his down payment. "I can probably meet future mortgage payments with rental income from the villa, but a more imminent problem is whether to wire money abroad now," Zheng said. "I'm not too sure about that. It's safer not to stick my neck out."

China's Army of Global Homebuyers Is Suddenly Short on Cash

[Emily Cadman, Sharon Smyth, Dingmin Zhang, Prashant Gopal, and Emma Dong/Bloomberg]

(via Naked Capitalism)





(Image: The Slow Down Show)
Judge blanks father

Justice Frank Seepersad was adjudicating in an injunction filed by the mother from San Fernando, who has been seeking, since January 10, to have her two children returned to her .

The 38-year-old woman stated in her lawsuit, filed in the San Fernando High Court, that she and her childrens father had been in a cohabitational relationship from 2009 to 2016. The relationship, she stated, produced two children who are now four and two years old. Attorney Martin Jadoonanan filed an injunction on behalf of the mother who stated that during the course of her relationship with her common-law husband, he verbally, psychologically and emotionally abused her, and he did so in the presence of their four-year-old child .

She said her husband has violent and abusive tendencies, such that on one occasion he verbally abused her parents when they tried to intervene in an attempt to protect her .

The woman stated that she separated from him and it was on January 10, she had given the her husband the children to spend the night with him. However, the next morning when she went to fetch the children, neither the children nor the father were at home .

She stated in her injunction that when she telephoned the man, he verbally abused her with obscenities .

She alleges that she returned to the home the following day, but he told me that I have no children and that I not going to see them again .

Seepersad ordered that the custody order is to continue and that the father is not to have access to the children until the adjourned date of hearing of the injunction on February 23 .
Klassic calypso night

Culture Minister Dr Nyan Gadsby-Dolly was in attendance.

President of the Trinidad and Tobago Calypsonian Organisation, Lutalo Masimba addressed patrons at the opening.

Here are some highlights of the evening.
Girl, 17, found with bullet to head

The victim was identified as Celine Thomas. Her boyfriend Carlyle Hamilton, 33, was hours earlier shot and critically wounded.

According to reports, Hamilton was at home at 9.30 pm on Thursday when he was attacked by gunmen as he turned and ran out of the house, gunshots were fired and Hamilton was struck several times. He sought assistance from neighbours and was taken to hospital where he was treated and warded in stable condition.

At 11 am yesterday, residents of Calvary Trace found Thomas body with her hands bound and a bullet wound to the back of her head. Officers of the Arima police as well as homicide officers were called to the scene and the body ordered removed to the Forensic Science Centre.

When police arrived on the scene they were greeted by angry residents who accused them of not doing a proper investigation after Hamilton was shot and had they properly searched the area, they may have found Thomas body on Wednesday night.

Thomas attended classes every Thursday at Al-Jabbal Mosque, Branch Road in Calvary. She left home just after 4 pm and she usually got home by about 7 pm, her mother, Cindy Cipriani said. Cipriani said her daughter attended Servol in Sangre Grande and was studying to be a nurse. She just had three more months to go before graduation.

The woman said when she awoke at 5.30 am yesterday, her daughter was not home. She has a friend who had a baby and I thought when she did not come home she had stopped by this friend. My daughter never stayed out, she never partied, never drank or smoked and was a staunch Muslim, Cipriani said.

My daughter was a straight Muslim, she did not go anywhere.

She was killed because she was seen with Kali (Hamilton), Cipriani said adding that Thomas - contrary to what was being said - was just friends with Hamilton as he was seeing someone.

I did everything for that child, it was just me and her. She was my only company. She gave no trouble whatsoever and the only time she would come outside was to wash her hands and say her prayers. A really innocent life has been taken away, Cipriani said. Thomas murder is the 46th for this year and 14th in Northern Division.

(Additional reporting by CAROL MATROO)
Govt $$ for panmen

Asked about an accusation by Pan Trinbago about the organisation and Carnival being hijacked by her Ministry and the National Carnival Commission (NCC) Minister Gadsby-Dolly said,  not at all, in no way is government hijacking Carnival.

We are very happy to work in conjunction with the groups that traditionally work with government to host the events. Forteau said that since the organisations annual general meeting last October, the minister was sent several letters with the last being on January 3, for meetings and collaboration. On a forensic audit of Pan Trinbago, announced on Wednesday last, Forteau said, We would have been treating with the minister on a monthly basis and somehow, some situation, somebody...

I dont know...we have been asking the minister for a meeting since November, to give our side of the story.

This private organisation is willing to share our business with our line minister but apparently there are people out there who want to try our matters in the court of public opinion. For her part, Gadsby-Dolly said her Ministrys specific concern is Pan Trinbago but as they flesh out the details of the audit a determination will be made on whether or not to extend such audits to other Special Interest Groups (SIGs).

We have already taken a different approach to the release of funds and it doesnt only extend to SIGs but also NGOs (non-governmental organisations) that receive money for different purposes and every NGO now will be subjected to a new subvention clause, which includes governments right to audit their finances. Forteau also accused the media of hounding Pan Trinbago but when told that it was members of his own organisation who came to the media to vent their frustration on how the organisation is being run, Forteau was adamant it was only one member who has been speaking to the media.

Recently, Pan Trinbago executive and vice-president Bryon Serrette resigned over alleged financial impropriety.

Cindy Rosemin (Asst Sec) and Aquil Arrindell (Education Officer) also resigned from the executive.

Pan Trinbago President Keith Diaz is on extended sick leave after suffering a heart attack.

The cheques distributed were for the support of 178 unsponsored steelbands to facilitate their participation in the Panorama competition and other related activities for the 2017 Carnival celebrations.
Machel, Kernel waiting to challenge convictions

Justices of Appeal Alice Yorke-Soo Hon and Mark Mohammed yesterday acceded to a request by Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) George Busby, in the interest of justice, to obtain reasons of Magistrate Maureen Baboolal-Gafoor on December 10, 2012, in finding Montano and Roberts guilty of assaulting patrons during a fracas at the Zen Nightclub at the corner of Keate and Frederick Streets, Port-of-Spain on April 26, 2007.

The new hearing date set for the appeal is April 26; exactly ten years after the fracas took place. Montano was found guilty of assaulting Gerard Bowrin, Janelle Lee Chee, Brandis Browne and Russell Pollonais.

Roberts was found guilty of assaulting both Browne and Pollonais. Two other artistes Joel Zan Feveck and Rodney Benjai LeBlanc, also charged alongside Montano and Roberts, were found not guilty. Both Montano and Roberts were in court yesterday.

Objecting to the move to obtain the magistrates reasons were attorneys representing the two, who argued that not only were they surprised that efforts had been made by the prosecution to do so, without notifying them, but also that Baboolal-Gafoor has since retired from the bench and her judicial authority had ended.

Montanos attorney Jagdeo Singh questioned the magistrates jurisdiction after such an inordinately long period to give her reasons, warning that to do so would be contrary to justice and judicial accountability and could lead to reasons being tailored around the grounds of appeal.

He said the statutory allowance for the provision of reasons by a magistrate was 60 days.

Roberts attorney Keith Scotland also relied on the Canadian authority provided by Singh to argue that the time between the magistrates decision to convict his client and the appeal was inordinately long. He also complained that his client, as a result of his conviction, was unable to travel to United States territories to perform and this has severely hampered his earning capacity.

When convicted, Montano and Roberts were spared possible jail time and instead ordered to compensate the victims as well as pay fines to the court. The magistrate ordered Montano to pay compensation totalling $13,500 and fines totalling $13,700. Roberts was ordered to pay compensation totalling $11,000 and fines totalling $13,000.

Montano faced an additional charge of using obscene language but was reprimanded and discharged for that offence. He has apologised to the assault victims. Also appearing for Montano were attorneys Larry Williams, Kiel Tacklalsingh and Vivek Lakhan-Joseph while Daniel Khan and Asha Watkins-Montserrin also appeared for Roberts.
Ramsingh Sharma free to compete

President of the Trinidad and Tobago Copyright Collection Organisation (TTCO) Dr Vijay Ramlal Rai made the confirmation yesterday afternoon saying the organisation was pleased that both parties came to an agreement.

The song Ramsingh Sharma was produced at Bakyard Studios owned by Richard Ramnarine of the popular band Dil E Nadan. It is performed by his brother Raymond Ramnarine and Omardath Maharaj, and since its release, has been commanding the airways.

In a media release, Rai stated: Richard was unable to recollect that he and his band used Super Blues melody from the song Ethel but finally agreed when TTCO pointed out to him and Richard (Ramnarine) that he indeed used the melody. The president added that yesterday Ramnarine eventually accepted that the melody was in fact taken from Super Blues Road March song.

TTCO is happy for the clarification and awareness of what has to be done when someone elses melody has to be used even when a denial by the user was pointed out, Rai added. TTCO is a Non-Profit Organization and according to its official website, it is a a Copyright Licensing body that protects unique areas such as: Works of Mas, Live and Featured Performances under Neighbouring Rights and Author Composer Under Traditional Copyright.
No firm for Pan Trinbago audit

In response to a question from Chaguanas West MP Ganga Singh in the House of Representatives, Gadsby-Dolly indicated, No firm has been selected and no terms of reference have yet been developed. At the first post-Cabinet news conference for this year at the Diplomatic Centre in St Anns, Gadsby-Dolly first announced the conducting of this audit into Pan Trinbago.

While Pan Trinbago has received $87 million in Government subventions over the past three years, she said from now, payment to pannists will be made directly from the National Carnival Commission (NCC), bypassing Pan Trinbago, and will be subject to a verification exercise.

In a statement on Thursday, Pan Trinbago described the audit as a hostile takeover.

In response to another question from Singh, Gadbsy-Dolly stated, There is a member of TUCO (Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organisation) and a member of Pan Trinbago on the board of the NCC. In his second question, Singh claimed neither TUCO nor Pan Trinbago had representatives on the board.
No Change in US Visa Policy

state.gov/content/visas/en/visit/visa- waiver-program.html to see the complete list of countries whose citizens are currently eligible to travel to the US under the Visa Waiver Program. The advisory came almost three months after the Embassy issued a similar one, informing TT nationals that this country has not been added to the US Visa Waiver Program.

As such, TT nationals were informed that they still require a valid visa to enter the US.

As Newsday reported, a spokesman for the US Embassy said the embassy had to post a notice about this on its Facebook page after rumours began spreading on the internet about TT nationals being eligible for visa waivers.

The rumours, posted on the CNNALIVE website, claimed that the US Department of State had updated the number of qualified Visa Waiver Program designated countries list from 38 to 39, with TT being the 39th country to be added.

The embassys post has been shared over 108 times with a number of comments.
Protest at Mitsubishi plant

The protest took place almost one week after the successful completion of bpTTs Juniper project at TOFCOs fabrication yard at the Labidco Industrial Estate.

The Juniper project is a US$2 billion investment in Trinidad and Tobago and one of BPs largest start-up projects in 2017.

Under a blistering early morning sun, dozens of placard-bearing residents chanted traditional union songs such as We shall Overcome while simultaneously calling for employment opportunities.

La Brea Village Council president, Marlon Greaves, said one of the main reasons for the protest action was due to the lack of job opportunities for persons living in the neighbouring fence line communities of La Brea and Vessigny.

The community has been supporting this project from inception, and promises were made to ensure the fence line people were given first preference for the jobs, but that is not happening, Greaves said, adding, there is a breakdown in the process, they utilising the Ministry of Labour and they finding it problematic using the Ministry of Labour, and the people from the area not getting the job opportunity. So the people came out today to have a peaceful protest because we are in support of the project but they just want to ensure that what was promised to them that they receive it, he said.

Greaves observed that La Brea residents were often stigmatised as not having employable skills saying a significant number had worked on the billion dollar Juniper project.

There is a stigmatisation that they cannot do the job, but TGU was built here, the Juniper project just finish, so the people just need the opportunity to prove themselves, he said. A meeting is expected to take place on Monday between the community and the company to hire persons from the community.

Caribbean Gas Chemical Limited (CGCL) is a joint venture enterprise led by the consortium of Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company Inc., Mitsubishi Corporation and local conglomerate Massy Holdings Ltd and would oversee the project development stage of the proposed Natural Gas to Petrochemicals Complex at Union Industrial Estate, La Brea, Trinidad.
Mariah, 18, remains missing

We (relatives) did not get a chance today (yesterday) to visit her school to talk to teachers or students to find out if they heard or knew anything.

So far, her cell phone is still switched off and so all calls are going to voicemail. Ever so often I still dial the number hoping to get an answer, Mariahs aunt, Natalie Baptiste, told Newsday.

On January 16, shortly after 5 am, Mariah left her mothers home at Khan Trace in Fyzabad to attend classes at El Dorado. The mother, Crystal Baptiste, had accompanied Mariah out the road and watched her board a San Fernando-bound PTSC bus.

On arrival at San Fernando, Mariah telephoned her mother saying she was going to board a taxi to go Mount Hope. On arrival at Mount Hope, Mariah again telephoned her mother saying she was going to board a final transport (a car) to go to school.

That was the last conversation the mother and daughter had and relatives later learnt that Mariah never showed up for school that day.
End child marriage, says UWI student group

In a statement issued on Thursday, the UWI Socialist Student Conference said youth and development are central to the UWI SSC advocacy, therefore any system that undervalues, harms and limits the possibilities for growth and the stability of a child ought to be challenged and discontinued.

It said that Continuing the practice of child marriage continues to violate a childs right to education, health, and equality and to live a life free of violence and exploitation. According to the statement, the UWI Socialist Student Conference said, We cannot make decisions about the lives of our children based on party affiliation and cultural practices simply for an uncritical commitment to tradition. Bureaucratic foot dragging and political partisanship have created a context of weak political leadership on providing protection for children and girls in the law on this matter.

The girls of this country are being attacked psychologically and physically and we need to put an end to it starting with the amendments to this bill and simultaneously change the way we understand and treat the girl child collectively.

We challenge the adults in parliament to listen to the majority voice of youth nationally against child marriage.
Prison Association sounds alarm over security issues

The POA head revealed that the Maximum Security Prison, which holds several of the countrys highrisk inmates, does not have an alarm system, and have been operating without one since 2013.

Fundamental to the security of any prison in any part of the world __ worse yet for a maximum security prison __ is a functioning alarm system, said Richards.

And would you believe that over the past year and more we have this prison operating without an alarm system? So if there is an issue occurring in that prison, officers have no way of notifying or raising an alarm which can cause a reasonable response to treat with issues of emergency. Richards said although the issue has been raised on several occasions by the association, their pleas have been falling on deaf ears. The lack of an alarm system is just one of the several issues that has been raised by the Association over the years. Prison officers have also been clamouring for basic equipment like the lack of stab proof vests.

Richards expressed frustration with the response of Minister of National Security, Edmund Dillon, to their requests.
NATUC addresses sexual harassment in the workplace

NATUCs General Secretary, Michael Annisette, revealed this during an interview on Thursday following his participation in a panel on the subject.

The panel was part of the European Union and Faculty of Law Human Rights Open Day, hosted by the Faculty of Law, University of the West Indies, St Augustine.

We are going to meet several groups to formulate a strategy and a plan in terms of how we deal with this particular issue and the question of treating women with respect and dignity, Annisette said. How do we bring it into the national debate? How we bring it into the boardroom, into the drawing rooms and homes of our citizens, so that this issue would really be addressed in a meaningful and serious way? Annisette noted that without a woman, none of us would be here and therefore we have to respect that. We have to get away from the tradition where women are seen as objects to be used and they have no rights. (This meeting) is about building a new culture, a new society, where the dignity of women is respected and that is what we are about. The meeting is scheduled to take place at the SWWTU Hall on Wrightson Road, Portof- Spain.

Asked by Newsday if either the SWWTU or NATUC, of which it is a member, has a sexual harassment policy, Annisette said no. He added that this too will be addressed today.

We are looking at policies from international (union) affiliates.

Well want to include those policies in terms of our union (SWWTU) and in terms of NATUC, Annisette stated.
Commissioner makes that call

Dillon made the statement in response to a question from Opposition Chief Whip, David Lee, on behalf of Barataria/San Juan MP Dr Fuad Khan in the House of Representatives. After explaining that this was not his responsibility, Dillon stated, However, I would surely want to inform the House that the CoP does in fact, based on individual assessments, allow police officers to retain their service-issued firearms outside. In response to another question posed by Couva North MP Ramona Ramdial, Dillon said, Joint (police) army patrols are currently being conducted in the Enterprise area where, on the basis of threat assessments and supported by the CoP and the Chief of Defence Staff, we feel that is where joint patrols should be at this point in time. Dillon previously spoke about plans to establish an army camp in Enterprise.

The minister indicated that notwithstanding this, there are random joint patrols which operate in the Chaguanas area, including its commercial business district. He also said there are standard police patrols in these areas as well.
AG: SSA regulations coming

Al-Rawi reminded MPs that, during the debate on the SSA bill an undertaking was given by me that the bill will be attended to when the regulations for both the Interception of Communications Act (2010) and the regulations for the SSA Act (1995)were in fact in ready.
Imbert: PP was zero-zero-zero govt

Imbert made this declaration in his contribution to debate on a motion by Couva South MP Rudy Indarsingh in the House of Representatives.

He also disclosed that in the first half of this month, the country received $200 million in valuable revenue from the supplementary petroleum tax (SPT).

Indarsingh praised Comrade Watson Duke on his election as Tobago House of Assembly (THA) Minority Leader in Mondays THA elections.

He then claimed the ruling Peoples National Movement (PNM) purposely choreographed the idea of a wage freeze/wage restraint in TT, there are 25,000 unemployed persons in TT and the Government is being run by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Indarsingh charged that Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley duped the population in 2015, into believing the PNM cared about this countrys workers.

In response, Imbert quoted from a December 22, 2016 letter sent to Energy Minister Franklin Khan from Petrotrin.

Imbert, who is currently acting Energy Minister, said Petrotrin, on the instructions of the ministerial committee of the then PP government, offered the union (Oilfield Workers Trade Union) for the 2011 to 2015 period, zero percent in the first year, zero percent in the second year, and zero percent in the third year. He said Indarsingh, as a minister of state in the finance ministry, was an active participant to institute a wage freeze at Petrotrin in the 2014- 2015 period. As he declared this was the height of hypocrisy by the Opposition to act like Caesars wife, Government MPs thumped their desks as Imbert quipped, What a tangled web we weave when we practice to deceive.
Tobago Assembly Oath administered

A release from the Ministry of Planning and Development (MPD) said that objective of the collaboration is to develop a comprehensive plan to more effectively monitor, evaluate and remediate potentially contaminated sites, particularly in southwest Trinidad.

Discussion began on Thursday and among those present were Environmental Management Agency (EMA) Chairman, Nadra Nathai-Gyan, and Managing Director Hayden Romano, Petrotrins President Fitzroy Harewood, Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries Permanent Secretary Selwyn Lashley, and Ministry of Planning and Development, and MPD Deputy Permanent Secretary Beverley Khan.

Nathai-Gyan expressed support for the initiative which, she said, is aligned to the EMAs mandate.

All parties confirmed their commitment to fostering a proactive approach to environmental management.

The meeting agreed that a draft terms of reference (TOR) for the engagement would be developed as a priority.

The TOR will define the responsibilities of all the parties in relation to implementation of the plan. The identification and assessment of all the possible sources of oil contamination (land and sea-based) from Mosquito Creek to Icacos, were also discussed as important considerations for the TOR.

The parties agreed to co-opt technical support of other local agencies/organisations to ensure that the undertaking is of a national scope and is relevant to current and emerging priorities.
New PoS Mayor: City already looking cleaner

We have hit the ground running and we have seen a brightening up of the city.

We have cleaned up the Brian Lara Promenade because people were complaining that it had a high stench, he said. Martinez said that they had also washed down several streets including Charlotte and Treasury Streets which were reeking with the stink of urine.

You will notice also that the curbs have been painted, so its a cleaner promenade that you are seeing, he said.

The mayor said he has also asked that there be no vending on the promenade which the City Police were ensuring did not happen and blown street lights were being replaced by the Trinidad and Tobago Electricity Commission.

He added that the corporations administration team was looking into repairing potholes on the citys streets, and urged the public if one had gone unnoticed to please inform the corporation.

Martinez said the new Besson Street Police Station, which was opened in December, last year, was there to offer its service to the public, but gave a warning to his council to just use it for a brief visit. He urged citizens to obey the law when parking as new lines for correct parking have been painted. If they didnt, he warned, they would be out a few hundred dollars if they had their vehicles towed.

The mayor said the clean up drive was not a one-off event, but he intended that it would be done on a continuous basis.

We want to keep the campaign sustained so we could understand what is a clean city, but we must maintain the work and educate the people, Martinez said.
How Scientific American and WIRED promote and endorse chemical violence against children

Whats the formula for promoting chemical medical violence against babies and children? Big pharma, the vaccine industry, and the mass media shills have it down pat, but its starting to fall apart at the seams. Heres what they do. The vaccine industry and big pharma have scientists in laboratories mix dangerous chemicals with bacteria, viruses, and genetically modified organisms. Then, billion dollar corporations hand millions of dollars to the FDA to fast-track approve their untested, experimental drugs and toxic jabs for mass manufacturing and distribution to the general public via MDs, oncologists, pharmacists, and even elementary school nurses.

From flu shots to psych meds and ADHD prescriptions, anything is game that the public thinks will help them get through the nightmare of their days (that are filled with depression and anxiety from OTC meds, GMO foods, bad jobs, and horrible school curriculum). The mass media just waits for chaos to ensue, and when it does, the frenzy begins, like sharks circling around chum. The CDC then creates mass hysteria with some new epidemic or pandemic, like Swine Flu, Bird Flu, Zika, Ebola, or even just the annual seasonal flu causing countless deaths (actually just one or two, and thats usually from pneumonia).

Finally, the fraudulent, shill-filled websites like Scientific American and Wired perpetuate and propagate mad-sheeple syndrome through infectious disease propaganda, all while burying the facts and the truth about whats really going on, and how simple natural remedies can prevent, stymie, and cure just about any ailment under the sun.

Vaccines, Mercury & Dirty Money  Mass media rejects column and message for Americans written by Robert Kennedy Jr.

In July of 2015, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. publishes a whistle-blowing article in Waking Times, but has to run it as a paid advertisement in USA Today. Though RFK Jr. is pro-vaccine and has had all six of his children vaccinated, he understands there are several major issues with the safety of todays vaccine ingredients and intense schedule that the CDC recommends (since 1998) and even enforces at gunpoint (in California). First of all, he tells us, vaccines account for $25 billion in annual sales for the trillion-dollar pharma industry. The CDCs decision to add just one vaccine to the already inundated and overwhelming schedule can 100% guarantee millions of customers and billions in revenue. Plus, the vaccine industry has complete immunity itself from lawsuits, so they can rush anything to market without safety testing, but rather just simply push propaganda on the news and voila!

Kids today in the US cannot attend school without at least 50-plus doses of 14 different vaccines before age 18, which often includes an annual flu vaccine. Though the CDC says they removed mercury from all childhood vaccines, thats an outright lie, because the influenza vaccine is recommended for children, babies 6 months and older, and pregnant women, and the flu jab contains massive amounts of mercury.

Right now, big pharma has over 270 new vaccines under development in hopes of boosting jab revenues to $100 billion in the next 8 years. Who will head up the CDCs mass vaccine propaganda promotion and marketing campaign? The main spokesperson (puppet and shill) for the vaccine industry is none other than Dr. Paul Offit, who invented the most dangerous vaccine ever, the Rotavirus vaccine called RotaTeq. Offit says kids can take 10,000 vaccines and walk away just fine. Side effects of RotaTeq include vomiting, diarrhea, severe stomach pain, blood in the stool, and intussusception, which means your intestines get blocked and twisted (this can cause death just days after the toxic jab).

RFK Jr.s vaccine article scrubbed from history by mass media shills and the corrupt CDC

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. authored an article entitled The Truth about Vaccines that was published in July of 2015 was virtually deleted from history, and scathing critical reviews were then published across the board for anyone looking for it. Heres how it all went down:

Timeline for CDCs and mass medias cesspool of corruption:

2002: Dr. William Thompson, lead scientist at CDC, tells his superior Dr. Gerberding about MMR vaccineautism link  she does nothing.

2004: Scientists at CDC destroy evidence showing MMR vaccine causes massive spike in autism cases among African American boys under age 3.

2005  2011: CDC promotes propaganda about hoax Denmark Study to bury the connection between MMR vaccine and autism, in case Dr. Thompson blows the whistle.

2011: Poul Thorsen, author of Denmark Study, indicted by federal grand jury for defrauding research institutions of grant money to fake vaccine study to discredit vaccine-autism link.

2014: Dr. Thompson confesses to the world about CDC corruption and vax-autism link cover-up: Biggest medical scandal in modern US medicine history.

2015: RFK Jr.s article Truth about Vaccines published in Rolling Stone and Salon.com.

Later that year: RFK Jr.s articles retracted/removed from mass media publications and counter critic articles by shills published.

2015  current: Mass media blackout of Dr. Thompsons confession.

2016: Vaxxed documentary is released and blocked by all major theaters and film festivals, Mass media lies and says Vaxxed movie is about Dr. Andrew Wakefield, not Dr. William Thompson.

2016  2017: President Donald J. Trump appoints RFK Jr. to head up vaccine safety council and the mass media go into a frenzy to discredit RFK Jr.

Is autism a form of Mad Hatter Syndrome? Media frenzy ensues to discredit RFK and keep mercury in high doses in influenza vaccines

Just three years ago, eco-activist Robert F. Kennedy Jr. blew the whistle on the dangers of mercury-loaded vaccines and how they play a major role in causing autism spectrum disorder. RFK Jr. also has a prolific new book published about it. If you look at the history books, Mad Hatter Syndrome, which was caused by exposure to too much mercury used in felt hats, caused many detrimental health symptoms and disorders, including central nervous system malfunctions, gastrointestinal trauma, sensory neural impairments, emotional instability, and more. Sound familiar? Think of most children with autism and Aspergers syndrome.

When a major US public figure blows the whistle on something as monumental as the CDCs vaccine corruption, the mass media outrage spikes off the charts, in a frenzy to cover up the truth. Its so obvious if you look at it from a helicopter view, you can see the shills and charlatans scrambling for cover in all the huckster publications, like the Washington Post, Scientific American, and of course, Wired. They came out of the woodwork to denounce everything RFK Jr. authored, calling him a lunatic, anti-vaxxer, anti-science, and anything else they could think of to discredit him before the mass cleansing of immunization ingredients begins.

Keith Kloor, ultimate shill and GMO huckster, a key figure in the mercury poisoning cover-up

Newsweek 1/11/17: Keith Kloor authors a piece called, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Takes His Debunked Vaccine Concerns To Trump. Who is Keith Kloor and why is he attacking RFK Jr.? Kloor is a cohort and very good friend of exposed biotech shill Jon Entine. Kloor is a climate change hoax promoter who was enlisted by the chemical agri-business to spread propaganda written by industry insiders. Kloor also writes propaganda for Science Insider, a sleaze journalism blog for Discover, and rhetoric pieces for Slate. Kloor is crafty at writing tricky, brain-washing industry jargon, so Newsweek loved it when he wrote a piece attacking the character of Kennedy. See examples of the kind of science fakery pushed by Kloor and his cohorts at FakeScience.news.

Watch for Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and President Donald J. Trump to begin removing dangerous neurotoxins from vaccines soon, and then you will magically see the bottom fall out of the autism epidemic thats crippling the minds of so many young boys in this country.

Sources for this article include:

Wakingtimes.com

//science.naturalnews.com/

//robertfkennedyjr.com/mercury-vaccines/

scientificamerican.com

wired.com

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Upcoming Bengali film 'Tomake Chai' release on 1st February 2017

Bollywood, Sat, 28 Jan 2017 NI Wire

Arijit Singh has donned a music producer's hat for the two latest tracks of an upcoming Bengali film 'Tomake Chai'.

'Bhalolaage Tomake' and Tomake Chai-Title Track' have been programmed, designed and sung by Singh himself. What makes these songs extra special is the use of live musicians for both the songs. Live piano, guitar and tabla - every instrument has been recorded live for the compositions.

Indraadip Dasgupta, Tomake Chai's music director says, "Collaborating with Arijit Singh is always wonderful. We needed someone who understood the depth and passion of Tomake Chai's songs. The entire album exudes a vibe of extreme romanticism and Arijit has captured it superbly."

This week's new release Bhalolaage Tomake' is a magical composition by Arijit Singh. It is a perfect love ballad for every couple wanting to express their feelings for each other. It is a romantic number in Indraadip Dasgupta's magical tunes, complimented by Prasen's passionate lyrics and sung by Arijit Singh & Annwesha. The video for the song has been beautifully shot against the backdrop of the exotic and serene Rajasthan desert.

'Tomake Chai - Title Track' speaks volumes about the feeling of falling in love and the desire to be with one's soul mate.It has already mesmerized the audiences with its depth and simplicity. Starring the much loved on-screen couple Bonny & Koushani, it captures the romantic mood of every generation with live piano played by Arijit Singh himself, and his melodious voice adding a dash of charm to it. The song video is set in the majestic Khimsar Fort of Jodhpur.

Tomake Chai',produced by Shree Venkatesh Films & Surinder Films is scheduled to release on 1st February 2017.

The full song video for Tomake Chai - Title Track' can be viewed at: Tomake Chai Title Track   Bonny, Koushani, Arijit Singh, Indraadip Dasgupta, SVFF

The recently released full song video for Bhalolaage Tomake' can be viewed at - Bhalolaage Tomake Tomake Chai, Bonny, Koushani, Arijit Singh, Anwesshaa, Indraadip Dasgupta
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Next Generation Communications this week reads like a guide to the hottest regions and trends in mobile tech. Over the past few days weve talked about China and Korea. And weve explored important trends and developments relative to the cloud, LTE (News - Alert), and 5G.





For example, Laura Stotler wrote a piece indicating Nokias flash sale of its new Nokia 6 Android smartphone in China was a success. The company did not disclose how many units it sold, but Stotler reported that they were all gone within a minute.

Meanwhile, Steve Anderson wrote about Korean carrier SK Telecoms choice of Huawei as an LTE equipment supplier. In this piece, he reminded readers about how some governments and communications services providers have voiced concern about the potential for Chinese supplier Huawei (News - Alert) to use its technology for hacking and spying.

(As an aside, I mentioned that concern too in the May cover story of INTERNET TELEPHONY. But, interestingly, although the U.S. federal government has voiced reservations about large carriers using Huawei gear, the Chinese supplier has had good success selling its infrastructure into both rural telcos and enterprises in the U.S.)

Speaking of enterprises, Anderson this week also wrote about a Nokia (News - Alert) study indicating organizations that move their communications to a private cloud can save at least 25 percent in five years. That was among the findings discussed in the Nokia Enterprise Private Cloud Total Cost of Ownership Model report.

Back to the subject of LTE, Anderson also did a piece about Future Market Insights data that indicates LTE and LTE-Advanced systems are poised for growth all the way through 2025. Meanwhile, Michael Guta contributed an article about a new report from Transparency Market Research predicting a compound annual growth rate of 78.6 percent from 2013 to 2019 for LTE.

And although sources such as Nokia have told me 4G LTE still has a lot of gas left in the tank, many industry players  Nokia included  are working on 5G as well. Indeed, Intel unveiled its 5G modem at the recent CES (News - Alert).
In an earlier column, I wrote about a question that comes up repeatedly on a few social book sites that I follow. That one concerned how a person can read more than one book at a time. On those book sites, people also like to debate about whether one actually reads an audiobook.
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The Economist magazine described Morocco as a budding success in the region thanks to the political and economic reforms it has taken on the backdrop of the Arab Spring.

Morocco rode out the Arab spring better than most countries in the region. Big protests led to constitutional reforms and a relatively free and fair election in 2011, won by the PJD. The economy shows promise and the King pushes a mild version of Islam. By the standards of the region, it is a budding success, writes the Economist in an article dubbed, who can unblock Morocco.

However, The Economist deplores the current deadlock in government formation talks, saying that more than three months after legislative elections, the PJD Islamist party, which won most votes, remains unable to form a coalition.

The Economist recalls that Secretary General of the PJD party who was appointed by the King to form the new government has led negotiations with the National Rally of Independents (RNI), the Popular Movement (MP) and the Party of Progress and Socialism (PPS). But earlier this month Benkirane broke off talks with the RNI and the MP, which came fourth and fifth in the election, after the leader of the RNI, Aziz Akhannouch, had made several demands, such as including other parties in its coalition, which would weaken the Islamists.

The magazine also points to the controversy surrounding Benkirane in light of his meager economic achievements since taking office in 2011. The unemployment rate is expected to remain above 10% this year, while corruption, which the PJD promised to tackle, is still a problem.

Quoting Moroccan journalist Abdellah Tourabi, the Economist notes that the blockage in forming the government seems absurd to many Moroccans. Most of the parties want to continue the policies of the previous government. They have the same view, the same programme, the same liberal vision of the economy.

The magazine warns that the delay in having a new government will have repercussions on the attractiveness of Morocco to FDIs. The blockage is now causing real damage. It seems unlikely that parliament will pass a budget on time, delaying the governments reform programme.

On future scenarios to the current stalemate, the Economist explains that the Moroccan constitutions requires the king to ask the leader of the winning party to form a government but it offers no Plan B. It is unlikely that the King will call for new elections or ask the leader of another party to form the government, says the magazine, noting that the most likely scenario is a compromise between the PJD and the RNI to form the new cabinet.
Intended as a discussion group, the blog has evolved to be more of a reading list of current issues affecting our county, its government and people. All reasonable comments and submissions welcomed. Email us at: bill.pysson@gmail.com REMEMBER: To view our sister blog for education issues: www.district100watchdog.blogspot.com
Pence. Photo: Alex Wong/Getty Images

Under President George W. Bush, the Justice Department launched a five-year investigation into voter fraud in U.S. elections. Despite intense political pressure to find otherwise, that investigation produced no evidence of any organized effort to skew federal elections.

But the DOJs efforts produced something more important than evidence  political momentum for voting restrictions that disproportionately impact Democratic constituencies.

Now, the lies that Donald Trump tells himself to protect his ego appear poised to serve a similar function. Unwilling to accept that more Americans cast ballots for Hillary Clinton on November 8, the president has spent much of his first week in office explaining that he actually won the popular vote once you subtract the 3 to 5 million undocumented immigrants who all, to a person, cast ballots for his opponent. His primary source for that claim seems to be the tweets of a former Texas public-health official, who himself has no (publicly presented) evidence and a history of being accused of corruption.

This story may not stand up under scrutiny. But the mere fact that Trump has been nattering on for months about how our elections are plagued by voter fraud has lent the idea credibility in the eyes of the public.

And so, Mike Pence isnt going to let a total lack of evidence get in the way of a perfectly good excuse to push new voting restrictions.

I would anticipate that the administration is going to initiate a full evaluation of voting rolls in the country, the overall integrity of our voting system in the wake of this past election, the vice-president told congressional Republicans at their private retreat in Philadelphia this week, according to leaked audio obtained by the Guardian and the Washington Post. You can anticipate that we will be looking for ways to work with you, to simply dig into it, to follow the facts, to see where the facts go. That one-person, one-vote principle is at the very heart of this republic and our democratic institutions, and it must be defended.

Notably, when Florida Republicans launched an effort to update their voting rolls in recent years, they ended up removing a lot of qualified voters  who happened to be disproportionately Hispanic and Democratic.

In what is surely a bizarre coincidence, one of the attorneys who (unsuccessfully) defended Floridas voter purge in federal court will lead the civil rights division of Trumps DOJ.
President Trumps de-facto Muslim ban has begun. Photo: Mandel Ngan/AFP/Getty Images

On Saturday night in Brooklyn, New York, a federal judge temporarily blocked part of President Donald Trumps sloppily implemented executive order banning citizens from seven Muslim-majority countries and all refugees from entering the United States. Trump signed the order for the temporary bans on Friday, apparently without adequately preparing government agencies for the change, which in turn stranded an unknown number of U.S. visa holders abroad, threw hundreds of thousands of permanent U.S. residents into legal limbo, and prompted a swift and widespread backlash amidst the sudden chaos.

Trumps executive order also indefinitely bans entry for all Syrian refugees and establishes a religious test for refugees moving forward, prioritizing Christians and members of religious minority groups in Muslim countries.

On Saturday, after as many as 200 inbound foreigners with once-valid U.S. visas were detained at U.S. ports of entry on account of the ban, which was enacted while they were en route to America, the ACLU and other organizations filed for a class certification and argued against the ban in front of Judge Ann M. Donnelly of Federal District Court in Brooklyn. She subsequently ordered that the detained immigrants not be deported; though, she neither allowed them into the country nor ruled on the constitutionality of Trumps executive action.

During the signing ceremony on Friday, Trump, who at one point during his presidential campaign said that all Muslims should be banned from entering the U.S., tried to frame the executive order as a way to establish new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America.

We dont want them here, said Trump. We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas.

The executive order also directs the secretary of State, secretary of Homeland Security, director of National Intelligence, and director of the FBI to come up with new immigration-screening procedures to meet Trumps demand for what he has previously called extreme vetting measures. Among the criteria Trump ordered were that foreign nationals should not be admitted to the U.S. if they do not support the U.S. Constitution, place violent ideologies over American law, engage in acts of bigotry or hatred, or would oppress Americans of any race, gender, or sexual orientation.

The previous U.S. vetting process for visas  and especially for refugee visas  was already among, if not the most, stringent in the world, and the Trump administration has provided no evidence that this preexisting process had in any way failed.

The Muslim-majority countries included in the 90-day ban are Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen  all countries which a previous federal law had linked to concerns about terrorism. The order thus means that at least an estimated 134 million people are now temporarily barred from entering (or reentering) the United States, additionally affecting as many as hundreds of thousands of current U.S. visa holders. Dual nationals, or those who were born in one of the listed countries, but also have citizenship in another unlisted country, are also included the ban.

Furthermore, the text of the order indicates that the seven countries are only the first to be included in the ban, and that additional countries may be added later. According to CNN, a Trump administration official indicated the list would indeed grow and promised they would be very aggressive in determining which other countries would be added. That evaluation process will include a mandated 30-day review to determine which countries around the world do not provide adequate information about their citizens to the U.S., and the ban may thus become permanent for some or all of the affected countries should the Trump administration decide that those countries governments are unable or unwilling to provide that information. In the case of a country like Iran, which the U.S. has no formal diplomatic ties to and no way of exchanging such information, the ban may very well become permanent.

In the meantime, Trumps ban list is also notable for the countries it excludes. Though Trump says the order is aimed at stopping foreign Islamist terrorists from gaining entry to the U.S., the ban does not include the countries from which terrorists who have already conducted terrorist attacks in the U.S. are from. Omitted from the list are Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Lebanon, Kuwait, and Russia  despite the fact that, starting with the attacks on September 11, 2001, citizens from those countries have been linked to terrorist attacks in the U.S. (Also missing from the list are Turkey and Afghanistan, countries in which multiple high-profile terrorist or militant attacks have been carried out in recent years; Pakistan and Egypt fit that bill as well.) In fact, as NPR points out, no citizens from the seven countries listed in the current ban have conducted any terrorist attacks in the U.S. over this same period. And as Bloomberg notes, the list also excludes Muslim-majority countries in which the Trump Organization, which Trump refused to divest from before becoming president, has business ties. At present, the Trump Organization has done or pursued business in Turkey, the U.A.E., Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Azerbaijan.

The order also suspends the admission of all refugees for 120 days, during which time the Trump administration plans to do its own analysis on which countrys citizens pose the biggest supposed threat. The order additionally cuts the total number of refugees allowed into the U.S. during 2017 to 50,000 (down from more than 110,000 in 2016), and instructs the Homeland Security secretary to propose ways to allow states and localities a say in whether or not refugees are allowed to be settled in their jurisdictions.

The only people currently exempted from the blanket ban are holders of certain diplomatic visas, though the order indicates that individuals can be approved for entry by federal officials on a case-by-case basis. One law enforcement official told the Associated Press that there was also an exemption for foreigners whose entry is in U.S. national interest. Trump can extend both temporary bans as he sees fit, as well.

Sr. DHS official tells NBC News: career State/DHS public servants had no input in drafting the order; Nobody has any idea what is going on  Bradd Jaffy (@BraddJaffy) January 28, 2017

The Trump administration clearly did not have a plan in place regarding how to actually implement the vaguely worded executive order after it was signed. Instead, by all accounts, the rollout was a ham-fisted disaster. Reports indicate that government agencies werent made aware of the specifics of Trumps order until Friday, which lined up the resulting chaos, confusion, and for many foreigners with U.S. visas, heartbreak. Agencies were instead left to scramble to interpret and apply the order on their own, and that not only led to dramatically different outcomes for different foreigners, but conflict with the inexperienced Trump administration. CNN adds that the order was drafted by a White House policy team, skipping over the typical guidance that would be provided by government officials with working knowledge of Americas immigration system. The White House didnt even release the list of impacted countries until hours after the order had been signed.

By late Saturday afternoon, however, it was clear that Trumps order would be interpreted by U.S. authorities in the broadest possible terms, with all foreign nationals from the seven countries, including current U.S. visa holders like green-card-carrying lawful permanent residents being unable to enter or board transportation for the U.S.

There were quickly numerous reports from various countries of distraught people with previously valid U.S. immigration documents being barred or removed from flights to the U.S., or being detained at U.S. ports of entry after having already been en route to America when the executive order went into effect.

The New York Times reported Saturday afternoon that an official message had gone out to all American diplomatic posts in the world instructing them to halt interviewing and cease issuance and printing of visas to people from the affected countries. Existing visas seem to have already been indefinitely suspended as well. Though it appears that anyone already in the U.S. will be allowed to stay, they may not be able to reenter the country if they travel abroad during the ban. According to the Associated Press, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency has also been notifying airlines about passengers whose visas are now suspended, and has told them to keep legal U.S. residents from the ban-listed countries off of U.S.-bound flights, though that instruction may have been a mistake. A Trump administration official then told Politico on Saturday that affected green-card holders who are outside the country will have to go through a review process and apply for reentry waivers on a case-by-case basis, apparently after being allowed to travel to the U.S., though many hadnt been allowed to make that trip as of Saturday. It is also not clear how long that secondary screening process will take, or if the Trump administration has yet established guidelines or staffing levels to handle it.

As it turns out, CNN reports that the decision to bar legal permanent residents was made by Trump advisors Steve Bannon and Stephen Miller, who seem to have been the driving force behind the order, and who overruled an earlier DHS legal interpretation that permanent residents were exempt from the ban. As a result of the conflict and confusion, mixed messages to the airline companies from confused federal agencies exacerbated the chaos, and agencies and airlines werent on the same page until sometime on Saturday.

Propublica reports that hundreds of thousands of legal U.S. residents may be impacted, and could be permanently unable to return to the U.S. should they already be abroad, or choose to leave the country during the ban. According to DHS reports, 500,000 citizens from the seven countries have received green cards from the U.S. over the past decade alone, and 25,000 citizens from the seven countries have been issued temporary employment or student visas in the last few years. Iran and Iraqi nationals, who account for nearly half the green cards over the ten-year period, look to be particularly hard hit by the ban.

Two Iraqi citizens  both refugees who had been granted admission to the U.S. and were already en route to the U.S. when Trumps ban went into immediate effect  were detained at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York early Saturday morning. One of the Iraqi men, Hameed Khalid Darweesh, had worked for the U.S. Army as an interpreter following the 2003 invasion, and had been targeted by militants as a result. Lawyers for the two men quickly filed a writ of habeas corpus demanding their release, and along with several organizations including the ACLU and the National Immigration Law Center, also filed a motion seeking class certification for all refugees and immigrants who had been suddenly detained at ports of entry on account of Trumps order. Exactly how many people have been caught in such limbo remains unknown, but the ACLU estimated in court on Saturday night that as many as 200 people had been detained due to the ban. Indeed there were reports from several U.S. cities of numerous other individuals and families being detained or deported, and many of those stories did not have happy endings for the would-be immigrants:

Their family in Allentown says they had secured visas "months ago" and are Christians fleeing Damascus. https://t.co/NG9SqyMwso  Brian X. McCrone (@BrianXMcCrone) January 28, 2017

Attorneys have set up shop at the O'Hare McDonald's as they work to get the 18 people held out pic.twitter.com/zueaLgNVA4  Stacy St. Clair (@StacyStClair) January 28, 2017

On Saturday afternoon, Darweesh was subsequently released from detention, apparently having been approved for entry via the aforementioned case-by-case scenario. Darweesh told reporters outside J.F.K. that America is the land of freedom and celebrated those who came to the airport to support him:

Iraqi man to crowd gathered to protest his detainment at JFK: "This is humanity. This is the soul of America" https://t.co/7vPbQED3qX  CNN (@CNN) January 28, 2017

The other Iraqi man, who had been granted a visa to join his wife, who had worked for a U.S. contractor in Iraq, was also released on Saturday evening, but not before a large protest against the detention of immigrants at the airport had amassed and continued into the evening. Similar protests in support of the immigrants, and in opposition to Trumps order, sprung up at other American airports on Saturday as well.

RIGHT NOW: Crowd chanting "Let them in! Let them in!" at JFK terminal 4 airport. #MuslimBan pic.twitter.com/ZCLFsmUxgm  Ted Alexandro (@tedalexandro) January 28, 2017

In addition, the ACLU and others case against Trumps order resulted in an emergency hearing on Saturday night in Brooklyn. During that hearing, Judge Donnelly agreed with ACLU lawyers that deporting the detained immigrants could cause irreparable harm to the travelers, and issued a stay in the case, temporarily blocking the U.S. government from deporting any more of the detained immigrants. This does not mean the immigrants can leave the airport, nor does it permanently block their deportation, but it was a momentary win for opponents of Trumps order and bought them and the detained immigrants some much needed time. The ruling did not, however, weigh in on the overall constitutionality of Trumps order.

To that end, the Council on American-Islamic Relations says it will challenge the constitutionality of the executive order, noting that there is no evidence that refugees  the most thoroughly vetted of all people entering our nation  are a threat to national security, and insisting that Trumps act is based on bigotry, not reality. It is not clear how Trumps order will stand up to legal scrutiny as the Immigration and Nationality Act both allows the president to suspend the entry of all aliens or any class of aliens as immigrants or non-immigrants, or impose on the entry of aliens any restrictions he may deem to be appropriate while also stating that no person shall receive any preference or priority or be discriminated against in the issuance of an immigrant visa because of the persons race, sex, nationality, place of birth, or place of residence. CNN reports that the White House never even submitted the order to the Office of Legal Counsel for legal guidance, so if the order has any legal liabilities, the White House may not even be aware of them yet.

As Politico highlights, the sloppiness of the order was also apparent in its imprecise language. For instance, the reference to religious minorities could or could not apply to sects of majority religions, like in the case of Shiite Muslims, who are often persecuted in majority Sunni-Muslim countries. Then there is the citing of foreign nationals in the order but not dual-nationals, making it unclear whether or not someone with citizenship to both one of the banned countries and another non-banned country will be allowed into the U.S. The State Department eventually confirmed that no, dual-nationals would not be exempt from the ban, meaning it would affect an even larger set of people.

The executive order also attempts to add an unprecedented religious test to Americas refugee-admission process. Per the order, the secretary of State and DHS secretary are directed to make changes, to the extent permitted by law, to prioritize refugee claims made by individuals on the basis of religious-based persecution, provided that the religion of the individual is a minority religion in the individuals country of nationality. Looking at President Trumps comments on the campaign trail, as well as in an interview on the Christian Broadcasting Network on Friday, priority status will be awarded to Christians in Muslim-majority countries. We are going to help them, Trump insisted of persecuted Christians in Syria. Trump then falsely claimed that it was impossible, or at least very tough for Christians to gain entry into the U.S., but much easier for Muslims, under the previous refugee policy. Neither Trump nor his administration provided any evidence to support that argument.

According to the Pew Research Center, nearly half of the refugees the U.S. admitted in the 2016 fiscal year were Christian (and the rest were mostly Muslim). About one percent of the Syrian refugees that the U.S. admitted were Christian, though there is no clear evidence that Syrian Christians were discriminated against in the process, and Syrias Muslim majority has faced the brunt of the wars violence and upheaval. The vast majority of Syrians admitted to the U.S. in 2016 were women and children and already faced the U.S. governments most intensive and complex background-check process, which typically takes as much as two years to complete.

Unlike an earlier leaked draft of the executive order, the final order signed on Friday did not include any language about establishing safe zones to house Syrian refugees either inside Syria or in another Middle Eastern country  something Trump has promised to do to address the plight of Syrian refugees trying to escape their countrys brutal civil war.

Meanwhile, Iran has now responded in kind, barring U.S. citizens on Saturday from entering the country in retaliation for Trumps executive order. It remains possible that other countries may follow suit, either making it harder for Americans to obtain visas, or banning them outright. Another possibility is that affected countries will refuse to accept their citizens if and when they are deported by the U.S.

Looking at response from the business community, Google has reportedly told its traveling staff members, abroad for either work or vacation, to return to the U.S. immediately on account of fears over Trumps order, which may impact nearly 200 Google employees. Facebook president Marc Zuckerberg has also spoken out against the order, and many other companies which rely on foreign talent, particularly in the tech sector, are starting to speak out against Trumps order.

Apple CEO Tim Cook on #muslimban: "It is not a policy we support." pic.twitter.com/dvIIYfhHqP  John Paczkowski (@JohnPaczkowski) January 28, 2017

Dating back to Trumps numerous Islamophobic comments during his presidential campaign, anti-terrorism analysts have also repeatedly warned that any move by the U.S., or comments from its leaders, that could be interpreted as anti-Islam may become useful fodder for Islamist recruiting efforts, and its possible they could damage Americas standing with key Middle East allies as well. In other words, Trumps order, rather than reducing terrorism against the U.S., as it is supposedly intended to do, may have the opposite effect.

In addition to the legal challenges, condemnation of the executive order has been swift. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer called the order backward and nasty, adding that tears are running down the cheeks of the Statue of Liberty tonight as a grand tradition of America, welcoming immigrants, that has existed since America was founded, has been stomped upon. Celebrated Pakistani humanitarian Malala Yousafzai, who survived an assassination attempt at the hands of Taliban militants when she was 15, said she was heartbroken that Syrian refugee children were being singled out for discrimination.

Numerous advocacy and aid groups are expressing their outrage as well. Oxfam America president Raymond Offenheiser, speaking with the the Times, warned that the refugees affected by the order are among the worlds most vulnerable people  women, children, and men  who are simply trying to find a safe place to live after fleeing unfathomable violence and loss. Also, thousands of academics, including 12 Nobel laureates, have signed a petition against the order, calling it inhumane and detrimental to the national interests of the United States in that it damages American leadership in higher education and research. The order, which was signed on International Holocaust Remembrance Day, also angered some Jewish organizations and drew the ire of Anti-Defamation League president Jonathan Greenblatt who called it tone deaf.

Asked by reporters for his thoughts about the first full day of the ban after another signing ceremony on Saturday, President Trump dubiously claimed that everything was going according to plan.

Its not a Muslim ban, but we were totally prepared, Trump insisted. Its working out very nicely. You see it at the airports, you see it all over.



Indeed:

Hundreds here at Denver airport for spontaneous protest. Guitars, chants, hugs, prayers, roses, hymns. pic.twitter.com/sG1u1bIhHI  julieturkewitz (@julieturkewitz) January 29, 2017

This post has been updated throughout to include additional information and context.
Photo: 2017 Getty Images

Were pleased to inform you that Lindsay Lohan  of Mean Girls and Get a Clue fame  met with Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan yesterday in Istanbul to reportedly have a wide-ranging discussion about the current plight of Syrian refugees. Also accompanying them was First Lady Emine Erdogan and Syrian refugee Bana Alabed, who shot to fame by tweeting the difficulties she and her mother faced during the siege of Aleppo. What a dream it is for Mr. President Erdogan and The First Lady to invite me to their home, Lohan wrote on her Instagram page. Their efforts in helping Syrian Refugees is truly inspiring, #peace starts now. In an additional statement to Turkeys Andalou Agency, she elaborated a bit further on the reasons behind the meeting: This is why I underlined the statement the world is bigger than five. Five big nations made promises but they did not keep them. There are some who are afraid to come Turkey due to the disinformation about it but I feel very much at ease. Lohan has taken a keen interest in Islam in recent years and has volunteered in Turkey numerous times to help the countrys refugee children. Expect to find out more about it in her upcoming book, probably.
Pro-life supporters gather at the March for Life. Photo: TASOS KATOPODIS/AFP/Getty Images

Almost a week after an estimated 485,000 women marched on Washington, D.C., to demand equality under President Trump, the Mall was overtaken by a new group of protesters. Anti-abortion activists held their annual March for Life on Friday morning, and although their list of speakers was markedly shorter, it included some big names. Vice-President Mike Pence spoke at the rally, as did a number of anti-choice politicians and activists. Here are some of the things they had to say  and what they tell us about the future of abortion access in a Republican-run America.

The quote: From [President Trumps] first day in office, hes been keeping his promises. Thats why on Monday President Trump reinstated the Mexico City Policy. Thats why this administration will work with Congress to end taxpayer funding of abortion and abortion providers, and we will devote those resources to healthcare services for women across America. And thats why next week President Trump will announce a Supreme Court nominee who will uphold the the God-given liberties enshrined in our Constitution in the tradition of the late and great Justice Antonin Scalia.  Mike Pence, vice-president

What it means: Pences presence at the march already speaks volumes; hes the highest-ranking White House official to ever speak at the march in person (Ronald Regan and George W. Bush both called in). And his message to marchers is clear: The Trump administration is on their side and will do everything in its power to restrict womens access to abortion, including nominating a pro-life judge, just as the president promised. He also said life is winning in America about a dozen times, so make of that what you will.

The quote: Growing numbers of Americans are alarmed to learn that abortion involves dismemberment of a child.  New Jersey Representative Chris Smith

What it means: Smith is probably referring to a surgical abortion procedure known as dilation and evacuation, or D&E, in which the cervix is dilated and surgical instruments are used to remove fetal and placental tissue. This type of abortion is endorsed by the World Health Organization because its relatively safe. Its becoming standard practice for ending a pregnancy after 12 weeks, but keep in mind that the majority of abortions (89 percent) occur at eight weeks of pregnancy or earlier. Dismemberment abortion has become a buzzy term anti-abortion activists use to drum up outrage  something Smith is perpetuating here.

The quote: Youve all heard of fake news, right? Well Roe v. Wade is fake law. And in the words of Reagan, let me say to the chief justice of the Supreme Court: Justice Roberts, tear down this law. Eric Metaxes, author and television host

What it means: First and foremost, this is a horrible mixed metaphor. Secondly, Roe v. Wade isnt fake  its federal law. The quote reflects the movements desire to repeal the landmark ruling, and with President Trump planning to announce a pro-life Supreme Court nominee as early as next week, the chances of that happening are higher than theyve been in years.

The quote: The most dangerous place today for a child is in a Planned Parenthood clinic.  Representative Chris Smith

What it means: This statement is, of course, false: For one thing, if a 2-year-old is in a Planned Parenthood clinic, theyre probably pretty safe  unless that clinic is being targeted for violence by anti-abortion protesters. We can only assume Smith meant to say an unborn child, in which case hes also mistaken  according to the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, the number-one cause of infant mortality is birth defects, followed by preterm birth and pregnancy complications. Incidentally, these are all things Planned Parenthood helps to prevent with its prenatal-care services. Using the term child to describe an unborn fetus is a move thats always been crucial to the anti-abortion agenda, and is likely something well see more of as the Roe v. Wade debate heats up.

The quote: This coming Monday, I will reintroduce that critical legislation to redirect Planned Parenthood funding to other eligible womens health-care providers. I am also going to introduce a bill to stop what some have referred to as President Obamas last gift to Planned Parenthood. Representative Diane Black is joining me, and it would scrap the rule that entrenches federal family-planning funding for Planned Parenthood.  Iowa Senator Joni Ernst

What it means: In his final weeks in office, President Obama introduced a new rule that says states cant withhold Title X federal family-planning money for reasons other than a providers ability to deliver services  in an effective manner. In other words, it says states cant deny providers like Planned Parenthood funding just because they perform abortions. Ernst just promised to introduce a bill undoing that  plus, she wants to send Planned Parenthoods funding to places like crisis-pregnancy centers.
Photo: Dallas and John Heaton/Getty Images

Russias parliament has voted 380-to-3 to pass a bill decriminalizing domestic violence.

The bill, which has been referred to in the press as the slapping law, decriminalizes the battery within families within certain parameters, such as whether or not the abuse causes substantial bodily harm or occurs more than once a year. According to the BBC, offenders face a fine and either 15 days of jail time or 120 hours of community service, with harsher criminal charges to follow if the abuse occurs more than once a year. This is the bills third reading in Russias parliament, and its expected to pass without a problem through the upper chamber before being signed into law by President Vladimir Putin.

The bill encompasses partner violence as well as the abuse of children. Government statistics indicate that 40 percent of all violent crimes are committed within the family, which includes 36,000 women being beaten by their partners every day, and 26,000 children being assaulted by their parents every year.

Supporters like MP Andrei Isayev defend the bill as a move to limit state interference in family matters. Isayev told the AP, This is a historic vote because in certain countries the states role in family life is way too much. Todays vote will end such practices in the Russian Federation. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Pesko declared that such events dont necessarily constitute domestic violence. Pesko has also said, Creating solid families is a priority.
I hate that Ridleys is planning 3 movies now.

A prequel story for Alien did NOT need to be covered in 4 movies.

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Kane was my fav along with Ripley in the 1st movie, feeling in the mood 4 it tomorrow tbh

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I'm gonna rewatch Alien tonight and cry a little :'(

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Iconic. I still have Alien and the sequel on blu ray <3 I rewatched it like few weeks ago

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RIP

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RIP :(

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I love this man sfm, he's been in so many legendary movies.

RIP, dear sir.

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mte. He's been in so many excellent things.

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omg RIP :(

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rip

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Oh for fucks sake. RIP :(



With all the talk of 1984 lately, this feels surreal.

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I was thinking that too :(

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seriously, i was planning on rewatching it tonight but idk if i can now

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I'm the same age as his oldest son and I can't imagine losing my dad. RIP, and condolences to his family.

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No! I started tearing up when I saw the notification. He was amazing in soooo many roles. My favorite is probably him in I, Claudius. He made that miniseries (and that's saying a lot because it's iconic.)



RIP :( 77 is a ripe old age and it sounds like he fought pancreatic cancer for a while, so good for him.

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77 is a ripe old age and it sounds like he fought pancreatic cancer for a while, so good for him



*nods*

I also assume the alcoholism also took a toll on him. Considering everything he lived a pretty long life.



RIP sir.



Edited at 2017-01-28 05:11 pm (UTC)

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if I was an actor with buzz I would want to try and get in a big blockbuster movie too lol so good for her

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Will Ken Watanabe be back? Literally the only interesting human in the first film <3

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He's the only reason I watch that movie, well and for Godzilla obvs. I just look away when anyone else is on. I'd sell my soul for him to have a bigger role.

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Hope her parents aren't stage parents (very wishful thinking) but this is a smart move.

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I think her dad's a psycho stage dad

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yeah I was skeptical cause I heard those rumors. These people shouldn't be near children, never mind raising and exploiting their own.

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http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/stranger-things-stars-father-demands-935013



http://dailym.ai/2aCIJYV lol her parents are the worst

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Her dad is greedy and from the sound of her interviews she's already under pressure to land work/make money (at 12 years old) so the odds are already against her. I really hope she makes it to adulthood unscathed but it's a slim hope.

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Bring Ken Watanabe and Sally Hawkins (and only Ken Watanabe and Sally Hawkins) back!

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I had no idea Sally and Ken were in it omg, I'll have to watch it then bc I love them 

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Sadly they don't do much but give exposition and then stare at Godzilla for the rest of the movie. Still, they acted circles around the lead actor. Everyone did lol

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why are they still making american godzilla movies

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Is she going to be the little baby all semi grown up?



Either way well good for her, haven't seen ST so can't comment there.

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That name though

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please don't be like dakota fanning from war of the worlds

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wait, there was a Godzilla movie in 2014?

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mte. How did I miss it? I love Godzilla.

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I won't lie, I enjoyed it. There's a moment where Godzilla shoots blue fire/electricity out of his mouth and my friends and I were literally cheering in the theater.

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Yeah that moment was such a YASSSSS moment, so unexpected lol it was a highlight

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SAME, our theater EXPLODED. We went to the midnight premiere and it was a blast!

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ia. i enjoyed it for the monster scenes, but i 100% agree that the monsters weren't in it enough. i have hope they'll take the criticisms from the first movie and improve the sequel.

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That scene gave me fucking life. I went home and straight away started looking for gif sets from cam versions lol

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Yes and it was relatively forgetful, even with the atomic breath scene

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I mean good for her getting more work, but Godzilla was so forgettable.

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This is almost definitely going to end up being a Godzilla vs. King Kong movie, right?

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that movie sucked

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yeah. I liked it

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Oh wow, in this picture I can totally see it.

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and 100x more talented and likable.

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definitely

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lbr by the time Millie's old enough to go for leading lady roles that aren't kid parts, Emma will have aged out of them - Hollywood doesn't give much longevity or prestige to actresses as limited as her.



Also Emma's set for life with the $$$$$$ and has decent parents. Millie's dad sounds awful, I worry what she's going to feel like if she has an awkward phase or doesn't book enough roles/make money.

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How amazing must it be to be a ~young, pretty and white~ actor.

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The fact that the only thing Black Sails is winning is best underrated show goes on to show how underrated it truly is smh.

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ontd has bad taste ijaf

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SERIOUSLY

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You think thats bad? 3% is so underrated ot didnt even entered the underrated category

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ONTD has bad taste. :(

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black sails builds giant beautiful ships and old pirate towns and gorgeous pirate outfits, vote for black sails!





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str*nger th*ngs is gonna win this category too even though it's not an option in this poll

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now all the str*nger th*ngs plebs are gonna complain about how salty you are, even w the helpful censoring



rip

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They are going to tell you to SEETHE, like if we were in 2008 ONTD or something, it's obvious their mind is in the past, that's why 80's nostalgia makes them think ST is the 2nd coming of Jesus.

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I like how almost everyone complains about stranger things on ontd, but yet it's winning most of its categories so far 

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the strangest thing is how nobody knows BLACK SAILS is the best show on tv!

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Lmao I was thinking the same thing. The result post is going to be fun 

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lol ikr

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anyone who doesn't vote for



BLACK SAILS



is a monster js

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I voted for Westworld, my bad.

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http://www.livejournal.com/poll/?id=2062040&mode=enter it's never too late to change your answer to black sails js

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LOL done.

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Stranger Things is winning everything....

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I NEED to steal this

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went to vote on the other ones and LMFAO at ONTD's thirsty asses confusing Andrew Lincoln for a good actor. y'all. no.

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westworld was pretty fuckin gorgeous. too bad they didn't build big ass ships or they'd be winning.

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I have never seen Stranger Things but I refuse to believe that it is better than either Westworld or Brooklyn 99.



Y'all are cray.

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best thing about it was the music and surprisingly decent kid actors. everything else is overhyped.

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its one of the most overhyped shows to probably ever exist. so painfully average in every way.

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It was good but it's overrated, it's not best drama or best show.



Edited at 2017-01-28 11:35 am (UTC)

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Stranger Things is much better than Westworld but not nearly as good as Brooklyn 99

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Stranger Things is WAY better than Westworld, but thats not saying much since WW is terrible.



Don't watch BB9 so dont know.

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BLACK SAILS



fuck

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legit gagging at stranger things doing so well. yall aint shit.

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hauntao  Westworld

somnus_angel  The OA

killerqueen  Westworld

nineteensix196  Outlander

semalina  Westworld

boomboxrobot  Westworld

carrieandlowell  The Crown

honeebs  Westworld

jellycar  The Crown

mollywobbles867  The OA

evilgmbethy  Westworld

tinabelcher  The OA

valire  The OA

sweetbitter  Westworld

lottachusetts  Westworld

lost_roxz55  Outlander

butterfly_cakes  The Crown

sherocker13  Outlander

dangeronshow  The OA

queensabo  Westworld

squirrels_oh_no  Westworld

_______awshucks  Westworld

firebunny  Westworld

carmen_salinas  Outlander

matty_minogue  Westworld











oblivious_frog  Outlanderhauntao  Westworldsomnus_angel  The OAkillerqueen  Westworldnineteensix196  Outlandersemalina  Westworldboomboxrobot  Westworldcarrieandlowell  The Crownhoneebs  Westworldjellycar  The Crownmollywobbles867  The OAevilgmbethy  Westworldtinabelcher  The OAvalire  The OAsweetbitter  Westworldlottachusetts  Westworldlost_roxz55  Outlanderbutterfly_cakes  The Crownsherocker13  Outlanderdangeronshow  The OAqueensabo  Westworldsquirrels_oh_no  Westworld_______awshucks  Westworldfirebunny  Westworldcarmen_salinas  Outlandermatty_minogue  Westworld

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i think jellycar gets a pass. the crown had some good shit. not as good as black sails of course, but i refuse to hold it against her!

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then i will hold it against her on your behalf

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lmaooo ty! tbf it's the only one I've seen too

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HAHA I love this comment

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Wtf happened to ONTD? Literally two months ago everyone was obsessing over Stranger Things. Now suddenly it sucks and it's horrible? But then it's still winning so that's kinda funny

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I feel like that happens with so many things on ONTD. When it first comes out everyone loves it, but a few months later it's suddenly the opposite.

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Because it's overrated and and there are better shows with less exposure and that gets annoying, the show is good but not that good.

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I didnt see any show better las year *shrugs"

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So slept on when

Like, can Black Sails Get something? My godSo slept on when

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RIP.



She had a great career though, and I'm glad she was able to find so much success at the end of it.

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that's sad :(

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:(((



still not over jlaw stealing that oscar from her

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The Oscars are a joke. Amy Adams hasn't won one and she's amazing.

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it's ok, she won all the awards that matter & are based on merit, not popularity. she was even specifically mentioned in the Palme d'Or for Amour (it's usually only for the director).

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that's one of the wins i'll be bitter over for a long time

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mte

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mte

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came here to say the same thing.

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One of the best biggest injustices. She was just Majestic in that movie. One of my favorite acting performances I have ever witnessed.

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mte

the same will happen this year with emma and isabelle

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Ugh yup

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mte

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mte :(

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The moment JLaw won I was literally like WTF?!!! The Oscars often award mediocre, white, young talent because they think they'll be the next ingenue. It's a popularity contest that rarely awards actual merit.

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I'll never get over it

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IKR? That was awful.

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I'm going to get shit for this, but JLaw gave an incredible performance that year. She most definitely deserved that Oscar

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RIP. Amour fucked me up for days after watching it.

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mte. i don't think i can watch that film ever again.

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Same I cried so much watching it

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I still can't watch it tbh. I keep thinking it could be my parents one day and I dont think I'll ever be emotionally prepared to see it

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It's one of those movies I wasn't prepared to see but needed to see at the time.



Just a beautiful movie.

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RIP. she had an outstanding career, i'll re-watch some of her films this weekend <3

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Awh, this sucks. Hope she's resting now.

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Aww Rest in Peace :( <3

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RIP. Hiroshima Mon Amour really is so underrated.

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ita that's one of my fave movies ever

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It's fantastic <3

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RIP



Such a talent

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Very sad, but she really had an incredible career. Amazing actress.

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rip </3

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RIP! Hiroshima Mon Amour is one of my favorites. Still need to see Amour, but I don't think my heart can take it.

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RIP! Very talented woman

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RIP :(



Amour is sitting on my videos folder for over a year now because I'm still not ready to bawl my eyes through it. :(

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Be careful bb. I cried thoughout but the real trauma came like, the day after watching. It's def one of those films that lingers + should prob be watched on a friday so u have a few days off to let it settle lol

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unfuckingbelievable

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It would be great if all the other foreign-born nominees - British, Canadian, Australian, European, etc. - celebs protested and didn't show up but I'm not gonna hold my breath.

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Same but I highly doubt it

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You know they wont. Maybe if they are also poc's but whites? I really don't think so they care more for the award than actual people

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i hope they protest if they show up

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If only.

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White people ain't gonna do shit.

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This truth.

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I hope whoever wins goes full Meryl Streep in the acceptance speech

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Hollywood ain't shit so I suspect a boycott won't happen - but this would be a great time for a winner to put someone else up on stage to speak in their place. Refugees and immigrants need a voice.

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This right here.



Though I have to wonder if it'd have any effect.

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they never would but mte

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Why do the foreign directors have to stand up and protest an American president and his policies? Who the fuck cares if the Danish nominated director Ole Olmstett turns up or doesn't turn up? And the thing is that is not even his real name but did you even realize that?



If anyone should protest Trump in that way, it should be someone with visibility. Like Emma Stone not turning up in protest. That would get headlines. But she won't. And no one like her is gonna make a protest acceptance either because they have to thank their publicists first.

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it would be great if they did, but the ones who should really be protesting & boycotting the oscars are american nominees, not other foreign ones. they're the ones who could make the bigger impact, not to mention it's their responsibility since it's their country.

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doubt it, especially the australians

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How would not showing up at the Oscars affect the government? They're not affiliated with the Oscars. In fact, they have a history of bashing of Hollywood elites. Seems like showing up and mentioning these issues in their speech would be at least slightly more valuable than boycotting because at least then they're taking advantage of their platform to educate people.

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This is so messed up

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Every single person that gets up on that stage should say how shameful this whole shitshow is.

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Looking at the likely winners, I'm sure the La La Land people are going to be about how great they are, but I'm sure Viola will say something great, she always does.

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I like La LA Land but you are completely right that they won't have the guts to say anything substantial. Let's hope it won't be as much as a sweep as we think

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Yup. I don't want Gosling and Stone to win but I think I'll be fine with Chazelle.

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They will say how hard it was for a movie like that to happen and that they are proud of the academy, that's a given.

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Weren't Emma and Andrew Garfield the ones who'd put up signs for charities or non profits in their paparazzi pics? I'd hope that she'd say something even after her Asian casting fuckup.

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Every single winner should be speaking out about it. Every single one. Their profession is in danger of being silenced and the world needs art. The world needs brilliant people like Asghar Farhadi. I mean, it's someones moment so I get enjoying it but no mention will feel fucked up as lives are in danger and at stake here.

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Listen I want Mahershala to win as much as anyone but IMAGINE THE TRUMP SPEECH THAT MICHAEL SHANNON WOULD MAKE  Kyle Buchanan (@kylebuchanan) 24. Januar 2017



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i went to bed crying, i woke up crying. i just want to die already. i hate my country.

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Hang in there. The lady in your current (and previous) icon won't want you to give up this easily.

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I'm sorry but I was disappointed as fuck with the Obamas not really going after Trump. I get that they wanted to show a peaceful transition of power and stay classy, but I wish Barack and Michelle came down on Trump harder during the transition. We're looking at the end of western freedoms as we know it with Theresa May, then Trump, and then possibly Marine Le Pen. IDK but I'm doing my best to donate and call my congressman and representatives, but so much damage is going to be done before people really start to do anything.

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i cried too after reading the news this morning it's so fucking evil :(

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I have had more anger about this country than I can remember in years. It feels like we're in a dictatorship. One of my mother's closest friends is Iranian. She lives in CA and travels to Iran often. I don't know if she's a US citizen or not but I'm worried she won't be allowed to come back to the US if she lives to go anywhere.

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I'm sorry. I feel the same way.

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I cried my eyes out this morning too. :(

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I'm so sorry :(

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me too bb



this is not who we are



im sick over this



the ACLU has challenged it tho

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Aww I'm not remotely surprised you feel like that. It's just horrifying. I hope the tyrant meets a painful end.

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I've been crying so much. I'm heartened to see all the protests at the airports and such, and more being planned, but it still seems so futile. I hope horrible things happen to Trump and his cronies. HORRIBLE THINGS.

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I wish I could cry about it, but unfortunately none of this surprises me anymore. It's becoming completely demoralizing though.

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I cried this morning too, especially after I saw a FB post with the quote that's underneath the statue of liberty.

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remember: when they go low, we go high! 

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i feel you



every time i log onto the internet and see more fucked up shit happening i just get so full of anxiety and despair

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Seeing how he overall majority of the academy is white men over the age of 65 they probably don't really care or are confused thinking there's ~exceptions to laws like this and it doesn't effect 'important people' or 'they're not like the rest'



Brando had his issues (and I mean ISSUES. He was a pig) but can someone plz pull a Brando.

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People have to start to grasp that we are living in a time we've only associated with history books. A time we've only read about growing up in school. Now we are existing in this darkness. We are what people will read about in history books and say "how did they let this happen?" I am so disgusted and angry. I am not surprised bc this is exactly what Trump said he would do but I am still so ashamed and angry. Detained and turned around simply because you should be going to the Oscars. Detained and turned around after serving in the Iraqi military for 10 years helping the US in a war they created. Turning away refugees simply because they are the wrong religion and skin color for Trump. Pence, Ryan, Bannon, all of them stand for fucking nothing and they're pathetic little cowards. I truly feel like the world is on fire and we're barely a fucking week in.

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All of this crap was ordered on Holocaust Remberence Day like the damn icing on the cake. This all just makes me sick.

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We are what people will read about in history books and say "how did they let this happen?"



I think about this a lot. Then I think about Trump voters as kids learning about the Civil Rights movement or something and thinking the same thing. (I feel like most kids thought this.) But obviously, they learned nothing.

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But just give him a chance!!!! /s

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That's what my 100% pro-Trump family keeps telling me and every time I give them a slew of legitimate reasons why I refuse. They always find one excuse or another to hand-wave them. I also tell them if it was McCain, Rubio, Mittens, or even poor ol' Jeb I would be willing at the most basic level, to give them a ~chance. I would still be highly attentive and critical, but nevertheless not filled with pure hatred and disgust at their very existence.



But this man? No. Never. I would rather drink poison. I will take my dying breath on this planet before I acknowledge him as President of the United States.



Edited at 2017-01-28 04:32 pm (UTC)

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I was reading about different resistance movements to the Nazi's last night and decided my personal fight will be to open my home and shelter those who need it. I will go as far as marrying someone, even though that might not be enough now.

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and there is 4 more years of this shit...



i cant even right now

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Right? None of this even makes sense. Nationals of the countries affected haven't even killed any Americans in terrorist atracks. This is an exercise in bigotry and hatred and nothing more. The tyrant in chief knows nothing about Politics or any of these counties and he's been given free reign to do whatever he's been feeling like doing for years.

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I was telling my mother this exact thing this morning. It motivates me to get more involved in my community!

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i remember hearing that we learn history so that it doesn't repeat. i guess a lot of people didn't get that memo!

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we are living in a time we've only associated with history books

And this is just the beginning. At least from the start we're protesting and calling them out and refusing to be divided. I just worry more and more people will get complacent...or what terrible shit will have to happen for people to get up and provide the kind of significant forward motion we as a society made in the '60s and '70s.



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I feel exactly the same way



And I feel like there's pretty much no hope of getting out of this any time soon. we're going to feel the effects of this bullshit regime for decades, if we're all still here. fuck

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Absolutely disgusting

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Can some members of the CIA and Secret Service go rogue and kill that Orange Buffoon already?

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we need a designated survivor situation DRAIN THE SWAMP

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CIA will not save you jfc....Trump has made people lose all sense of history

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No, but they'll want to save themselves.

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Grats on the new low, America. What a shitshow.

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this is horrifying. i'm so scared for everyone that isn't white/male/straight and it's only been a week.



about elly is my fave movie of his. it was also my introduction to his work. a teacher showed us in class a few years ago and i was trying to hold it together during most of it. i really hope he wins now

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No. Please put it behind a cut. No-one posting here sees ambiguity in the stakes.

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Jfc, I didn't realize this would go into effect so quickly. It's only going to get worse and my outlook was already bleak like... I don't want to see what this country is going to become. Time to start thinking seriously about living six feet under tbh

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This country is not survivng 4 years of this.

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Comment twins. There's no fucking way we will.

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not at all. NOT AT ALL.

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At this point I'm inclined to say 'Let it die'



But I say this as a priviliged European so yeah



Edited at 2017-01-28 05:13 pm (UTC)

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Yeah. Goodness, it's only been a week since he's been president.

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America is in to learn an ugly ass lesson.

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what the fuckkkk

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I give it six months before he's either impeached from the presidency or impeached from life.

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as a non-american watching from the outside, i really don't think trump is going to finish his term. most people here think he's either going to be impeached or suffer an "accident" in a year or so.

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unfuckingbelievable

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Republicans will put party over country and people will die because of it. It was not long ago that both Pence and Ryan said banning Muslims would be shameful. They're all fucking cowards.

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the republicans will never impeach donald trump, he is their id, in the flesh. everything he says and wants to do and will do is what they secretly (and not so secretly) think and want themselves.



Edited at 2017-01-28 04:25 pm (UTC)

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No refugee or immigrant should be banned but that fact that Saudi Arabia isn't a concern, given their numerous human rights violations and clear connections to terrorism, is ridiculous.



Edited at 2017-01-28 05:08 pm (UTC)

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fuck him right to hell, oh my god.

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Fierce rhetoric from the Trump Administration, including promises to build a border wall and threats of a twenty percent tax on imports from Mexico to pay for it, have fueled speculation of a possible trade war between the United States and its third-largest trading partner. American goods and services trade with Mexico in 2015 equaled more than $500 billion. For Mexico, the border trade is even more important: the US is Mexicos single largest trading partner and American demand for Mexican goods is the chief reason the country has been able to run a trade surplus.

Now, concerns are growing that restrictions on trade between the US and Mexico could affect the growing energy trade between the two countries. The bad news is that, after a somewhat chaotic exchange in which the Mexican president cancelled a visit to the US and the Trump Administration responded with threats of an import tax, only to backtrack on that threat, its tough to know what will come next in US-Mexican relations.

The good news, however, is that should US-Mexican trade be re-negotiated or a replacement to NAFTA, the 1994 trade agreement, be put into place, its unlikely to affect the growing cross-border energy trade.

Since moving to privatize its energy industry in 2013, Mexico has become heavily dependent on supplies of energy, particularly natural gas and gasoline, from the United States. The EIA reported that during 2016, American gasoline exports account for eighty percent of all Mexican gasoline imports, growing as a share of total Mexican gasoline consumption from thirty percent to over fifty percent since 2014.

The reason for the increase in Mexican demand for US gasoline is tied to the countrys energy reform plan. Over the course of 2016, gasoline prices in Mexico have increased by as much as twenty percent, triggering protests and increased political pressure to improve the countrys access to cheaper fuel.

Since 2014 the Mexican government has ended the state energy company Pemexs monopoly on upstream operations and opened the country up to foreign investment. This has led to an increase in gasoline prices, as the Mexican domestic market became more competitive and domestic refinery yields fell, as a result of periodic outages in the countrys production of heavy crude sour oil.

So, until Mexico succeeds in expanding domestic production and refinery capacity through attracting foreign investment, it seems likely Mexican demand for cheaper US gasoline will continue.

Natural gas, as well as gasoline, is tying the two countries together. The shale boom in the US made American natural gas extremely attractive for Mexico, which depends on it for nearly sixty percent of its total electricity generation, a twenty percent increase from 2005. The EIA estimates that between 2016 and 2020, around sixty percent of Mexicos electricity additions will come from natural gas. The agency predicts that this demand will be met mostly through imports, as it will take several years before Mexico is able to increase domestic production. That production has fallen off since the 1990s, according to the BP Statistical Review, and since 2010 have been in steady decline. Related: Iran To Export More Oil In February

The increase in natural gas imports from the US has been staggering. In 2015 Mexico imported 1052 BCF from the United States, an increase of nearly three-hundred percent over five years.

(Click to enlarge)

LNG exports from the US to Mexico have also jumped, as Mexico now ties Chile as the major destination for shipments delivered from the US export terminal at Sabine Pass, LA. Related: Large Rig Count Gains Rock Oil Markets

With the situation as it is, experts predict that new trade negotiations between the US and Mexico, and even a potential trade war, likely wont stop the flow of energy across the border. Demand from Mexico helps keep the price of natural gas from the US buoyant and supports the shale boom against faltering prices worldwide. Of course, if the relationship between Mexico and the US moves away from the free-trade of NAFTA, entire economic sectors will be affected. Cheap US energy helps Mexican manufacturing stay competitive, and a falling peso helps even more.

Given the degree to which Mexico depends on its trade with the US, President Trump appears to be in a strong position to negotiate a completely new deal. But the ties that bind US energy to the Mexican market means the sector could be left out of negotiations, as any trade restrictions will be selective, rather than sweeping.

President Trump himself has an interest in EnergyTransferPartners LP, which is involved in constructing a new pipeline to Mexico. Of course, should he decide to divest from his interests, it may alter his attitudes towards assisting US oil and gas companies from pursuing deals in Mexico. After proposing the twenty percent import tax and then just as suddenly backing away from it, the Trump Administration has signaled that it is not, as yet, ready to commit to a new specific trade policy with Mexico. This uncertainty will likely continue, but theres a good chance oil and gas will be spared major disruptions.

By Gregory Brew for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
A new transit agreement reached earlier this month between the Georgian government and Russia's Gazprom on how Georgia will be compensated for the transit of Russian natural gas across its territory to Armenia has incurred widespread criticism.

Even though not all of the details have been made public, the divided opposition United National Movement (ENM), civil society organizations, and even Georgia's president have all denounced it as undermining the country's energy security and political interests.

Energy Minister Kakha Kaladze has rejected such criticism as "disinformation" and "hysterics" on the part of "marginal groups" seeking to "score populist points." After he ignored a request from the ENM last week to brief parliament on the precise terms of the agreement, the party is now demanding that a debate on the issue be scheduled for February 8.

For the past several years, under successive annual agreements, Georgia received 10 percent of the approximately 2 billion cubic meters of gas Gazprom supplied annually to Armenia instead of cash payment. That tariff, according to Vartan Harutiunian, CEO of Armenia's national gas company, owned by Gazprom, is the highest in the world.

The 200 million cubic meters Georgia received in lieu of transit tariffs accounted for a little under 10 percent of Georgia's total gas consumption in 2015. Georgia imports almost 90 percent of its gas from Azerbaijan.

Kaladze disclosed in January 2016 that Gazprom had sought for the previous two years to monetize the transit fee, but ultimately agreed to maintain payment in kind. This year, however, Gazprom apparently insisted on switching to monetization. Consequently, Georgia agreed to a two-year contract. During the first year, Georgia will be paid partly in kind and partly in cash (the proportion is not known), but as of 2018, Georgia will be paid the cash value of 10 percent of Armenia's gas imports. Related: Robots Over Roughnecks: Next Drilling Boom Might Not Add Many Jobs

At the same time, Georgia will be entitled to buy Russian gas to compensate for any shortfall that arises, but the price charged will be $185 per 1,000 cubic meters, compared to the normal prices of $215. Economy Minister Giorgi Gakharia said it may not even be necessary to purchase any Russian gas unless Azerbaijan is unable to provide additional quantities if asked to do so.

Critics of the new deal say it is economically disadvantageous, runs contrary to national interests, and poses a threat to the country's energy security. They note that the price Gazprom charges Armenia for gas has been reduced several times (it is currently $150 per 1,000 cubic meters) and is not enough to purchase the quantity of gas that Georgia received in previous years in lieu of transit fees. Kaladze, however, claims that the value of the cash payments is "more or less the same" as that of the gas received in previous years.

Kaladze has repeatedly rejected the objections voiced by the ENM as unfounded and politically motivated. The ENM had similarly criticized him for not taking a tough enough stance during the negotiations that culminated in last year's agreement.

Kaladze said the first two rounds of talks, on December 13 and 23, were difficult, as the two sides' positions were "so far apart there was nothing to negotiate about." He did not say whether Gazprom threatened, as it had done in early 2016, to reroute future gas exports to Armenia via Iran, but this may have been the case, judging by Georgian parliamentarian Gia Volsky's comment that not accepting Gazprom's offer would have damaged Georgia's relations with Armenia and called into question Georgia's reliability as a transit country. Related: Keystone XL Still Faces Obstacles Even With Trumps Approval

Then, during the third round on January 11, Gazprom came up with what apparently amounted to a take-it-or-leave-it ultimatum that according to Kaladze was an improvement on its earlier offers, and to which he assented. He says doing so was the "rational and correct" course of action and that the new agreement preserves Georgia's "important transit function" while "not increasing by a single iota" its energy dependency on Russia.

Kaladze has refused to divulge the precise terms of the new agreement on the grounds that they constitute a commercial secret, but economist Lado Papava questions this, pointing out that it is not an interstate agreement but one between a commercial entity and a national government.

Georgian officials tacitly admit nonetheless that the terms of the new agreement are less than ideal. Kaladze has stressed repeatedly that they were the best Georgia could have achieved, while Prime Minister Giorgi Kvirikashvili said the agreement "is nothing to celebrate." But as parliamentarian Zviad Dzidziguri has pointed out, no opponent of the new agreement has stated explicitly what Georgia could and should have done to secure better terms.

By Liz Fuller via Rferl.org

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Iran has said it may cancel its high-profile, US$7-billion peace pipeline project with Pakistan over lengthy construction delays, with would deprive energy-starved Pakistan of the some 22 million cubic meters of gas a day it would have received from its neighbor.

If negotiations fail to come up with a way to feasibly realize the project, Irans National Gas Company Head Hamid Reza Araqi said on Friday that the project could be cancelled entirely.

The project has already undergone 15 years of negotiations, beginning as the Iran-Pakistan-India gas pipeline project. Pakistan and Iran finally signed the initial agreement in 2009, while India withdrew from the deal. The deal was signed by Pakistani President Zardari and Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmedinejad. In accordance with this deal, Iran was to provide 22 million cubic meters per day of gas.

Pakistan was slated to begin importing Iranian gas imports in early 2015, but the country has not yet begun construction of the related pipeline, nor has Iran completed its project to transit South Pars gas to the Pakistani border. Iran was planning to build a 180-kilometer pipeline.

The pipeline was intended to connect Iran's giant South Fars gas field with Pakistan's southern Baluchistan and Sindh provinces.

The project is crucial for Pakistan if they are to avert a growing energy crisis already causing severe electricity shortages in the country of about 170 million, while it also grapples with Islamist militancy.

Tehran had at one point offered to loan Pakistan US$500 milliona third of the cost of Pakistans portion of the pipelineto start pipeline construction in Pakistans territory. This offer was later revoked due to financial problems caused by sanctions.

Pakistans Petroleum Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi recently noted that in order for the Peace Pipeline to be feasible, all sanctions against Iran would have to be removed.

The deal has also been plagued by pricing disputes, with Pakistan demanding that Iran lower gas prices. Pakistan has also claimed that gas prices offered by Turkmenistan through the TAPI pipeline are lower than those proposed by Iran.

By Damir Kaletovic for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
India is a hurdle in flourishing SAARC organisation: Sartaj Aziz

ISLAMABAD: Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz has said that Pakistan is committed to regional cooperation, especially with the South Asian for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), but India is a hurdle in flourishing of the organisation.



He expressed these views on Friday in a meeting with Arjun Bahadur Thapa, the outgoing secretary general of SAARC, who is on a visit to pay a farewell call. Sources informed Daily Times that Sartaj Aziz said that Pakistan wanted development and cooperation between South Asian nations. "But India has hegemonic designs, which are impediments in the economic development and prosperity of the region." He said that Pakistan was committed to regional cooperation under the umbrella of SAARC for the welfare of South Asians, improving their quality of life, economic progress and social uplift.



He said that due to several impediments and challenges, SAARC had been unable to fulfil the vision that was laid out for it by its founding members. He believed that the SAARC Secretariat could play an important role of a catalyst to bring all the member states together and ensure timely and effective implementation of programmes and activities that would benefit the region. Sartaj Aziz expressed that Pakistan was looking forward to welcoming SAARC leaders for the 19th summit that was scheduled for November in Islamabad but was postponed when India impeded the SAARC process and violated the spirit of the SAARC Charter.



"Pakistan remains committed to hosting the 19th SAARC Summit in Islamabad at the earliest so that the objectives of regional cooperation under the SAARC umbrella can be pursued more vigorously."



SAARC Secretary General Thapa emphasised the need to overcome the difficulties that the organisation faced and expressed the hope that the 19th SAARC Summit would be held in Islamabad as soon as possible. He also held a meeting with Foreign Secretary Aizaz Chaudhry. The foreign secretary appreciated Secretary General Thapa's contributions to the SAARC process and reiterated Pakistan's commitment to the SAARC objectives.



The foreign secretary also emphasised that internal and bilateral problems of member states must not be allowed to affect the organisation and that the 19th SAARC Summit should be held as soon as possible to put the whole SAARC process back on track.



On behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Asia Pacific Additional Secretary Syed Zulfiqar Gardezi hosted a lunch for the secretary general, which was also attended by SAARC secretary general-elect Amjad Hussian Sial. Thapa, who hails from Nepal, is the 12th secretary general of the organisation. He completes his tenure on February 28, 2017. It may be mentioned here that in an expected spoiler, India decided to pull out of November's SAARC summit in Islamabad.



The announcement came amid growing tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours following the attack on an Indian army base in Indian-held Kashmir.



Pakistan had offered dialogue to India for the resolution of the Kashmir issue, but the offer was rejected. Islamabad had also formally extended an invitation to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the Pakistan-hosted 19th SAARC summit.



Meanwhile, all eight member states of SAARC are scheduled to gather in Kathmandu on February 1-2 - for the first time since the summit was postponed - to discuss pressing issues, including cross border terrorism and absence of pan-South Asia connectivity projects that hamper smooth functioning of the grouping. Senior diplomats of India, Pakistan and other six member nations will discuss the way forward for SAARC, a senior official told the Economic Times.



Nepal, the current chair of SAARC, has convened a meeting of the programme committee of the association in Kathmandu, where diplomats from the member countries are likely to discuss ways to end the stalemate over the 19th summit, apart from scheduling events to be held by the organisation in the coming months.
Trump to suspend refugee arrivals-impose tough new controls on travellers from seven Muslim countries

US President Donald Trump signed a sweeping new executive order Friday to suspend refugee arrivals and impose tough new controls on travellers from seven Muslim countries.



Making good on one of his most controversial campaign promises, and to the horror of human rights groups, Trump said he was making America safe from radical Islamic terrorists.



This is big stuff, he declared at the Pentagon, after signing an order entitled: Protection of the nation from foreign terrorist entry into the United States.



Trump's decree suspends the entire US refugee resettlement program for at least 120 days while tough new vetting rules are established.



These new protocols will ensure that those approved for refugee admission do not pose a threat to the security and welfare of the United States. In addition, it specifically bars Syrian refugees from the US indefinitely, or until the president himself decides that they no longer pose a threat.



Meanwhile, no visas will be issued for 90 days to migrants or visitors from seven mainly-Muslim countries: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.



During the suspensions of the refugee and visa programs, new rules will be devised for what Trump has called the extreme vetting of applicants' backgrounds.



Some exceptions will be made for members of religious minorities, which  in the countries targeted by the decree  would imply favourable treatment for Christians.



Civil liberties groups and many counterterror experts condemned the measures, declaring it inhumane to lump the victims of conflict in with the extremists who threaten them.



'Extreme vetting' is just a euphemism for discriminating against Muslims, said Anthony Romero, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union.



Romero argued that, by choosing countries with Muslim majorities for tougher treatment, Trump's order breaches the US Constitution's ban on religious discrimination.



Ahmed Rehab, director of the Chicago chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, said his group would mount legal challenges to fight the order tooth and nail.



It is targeting people based on their faith and national origin, and not on their character or their criminality, he told AFP.



Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani activist and Nobel peace laureate who was shot in the head by the Taliban in 2012, said she was heartbroken.



She urged Trump not to abandon the world's most defenseless children and families. But the measure will be popular with Trump's nationalist base, and stops short of a threat made during last year's campaign to halt all Muslim travel to the US.



Trump's supporters defend the measures as necessary to prevent supporters of Al Qaeda or the militant Islamic State (IS) group from infiltrating the US homeland disguised as refugees.



And the State Department, which with the Department of Homeland Security will have to implement the measures, said it was ready to put them into immediate effect.



We will announce any changes affecting travellers to the United States as soon as that information is available, spokesman Mark Toner said.



We take seriously our responsibility to safeguard the American public while remaining committed to assisting the world's most vulnerable people.



Trump signed the order  which will cut the number of refugees the US plans to resettle this fiscal year from 110,000 to 50,000  in a ceremony at the Pentagon.



Moments earlier, he had signed an order to rebuild the US military and had watched Vice President Mike Pence swear in respected former Marine general James Mattis as his new secretary of defence.



Trump showered Mattis with praise and had earlier admitted he would allow the general's opposition to the use of torture to override his own enthusiasm for harsh measures.



In what was a busy day from Trump, one week after his inauguration, he also met with Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May, the first foreign leader to visit his White House.



He hailed the most special relationship between the twin Atlantic powers and praised Britain's decision to leave the European Union as a wonderful thing.



When it irons out, you're going to have your own identity, and you are going to have the people that you want in your country, Trump said, in a nod to his own immigration stance.



You're going to be able to make free trade deals without having somebody watching you and what you are doing.



May conveyed an invitation from Queen Elizabeth II for Trump to come to Britain for a state visit this year, and thanked him for his 100 per cent support of Nato.



Over the weekend, Trump is due to make calls to Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel, Russia's President Vladimir Putin, France's President Francois Hollande and Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.
From Greg Swank, 12-4-2 You are about to read a list of 45 goals that found their way down the halls of our great Capitol back in 1963. As...
Law enforcement authorities from Europe and Asia have arrested five members of an international cybercriminal group that specialized in hacking into automated teller machine (ATMs).

The investigation began in early 2016, according to Europol. Three suspects were arrested in Taiwan, one in Romania, and one in Belarus. Most of them had multiple citizenships and could travel easily between countries, the agency said Friday.

Hacking into ATMs to steal money is nothing new, and there are malware programs built specifically for such machines that allow criminals to withdraw money using hidden commands.

To infect ATMs with such malware most attackers either receive help from bank insiders or buy service keys that can be used to open the front panels of ATMs and access their communications ports.

However, the gang targeted by this law enforcement investigation had a different modus operandi. They used spear-phishing to target bank employees and penetrate the banks internal networks. They then located and hacked into the ATM network segment from the inside.

Targeting and compromising financial institutions instead of their customers is a more recent technique. A year ago, researchers from antivirus vendor Kaspersky Lab warned about three cybercriminal groups that hacked into banks computer networks.

Some of them can wait for months or even a year inside a compromised network before they start stealing money, during which they carefully observe and gather information about the targets internal procedures, money moving processes, and key employees.

One such gang dubbed Carbanak stole between US$500 million and $1 billion from hundreds of financial institutions in at least 30 countries.

Compared to Carbanak, the losses to banks caused by the five arrested suspects are estimated at around $3.2 million. Two of them have already been convicted, Europol said. Its unclear when all of the arrests happened.
You must be using LED bulbs in homes. What if these LED bulbs of yours keep on burning even after the power goes out? For this many people use inverter. We have come up with information about such a product, for which you will not need any inverter. Its price is less than 500 rupees. You get many great products...
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This blog will focus on political images I have found all around the Internet, though I will intersperse some commentary and quotes that I find interesting.
Douglas V. Gibbs is a proud member of the American Authors Association

Douglas V. Gibbs is a proud member of the Military Writers Society of America.
iStock/Thinkstock(LAGRANGE, Ga.) -- On Sept. 8, 1940, a group of white men wearing hoods dragged a black teen named Austin Callaway out of a jail in LaGrange, Georgia, shot him multiple times and left his dead body in a rural area of the county, according to city officials.



For over 76 years, the brutal lynching was never investigated by authorities and remained unacknowledged by the city leaders.



But this past Thursday night, LaGrange's mayor, police chief and community leaders finally acknowledged that "justice failed Austin Callaway" during a remembrance service for the teen. They also apologized for the lynching in front of Callaway's surviving family and the black community.



"I, on behalf of the LaGrange Police Department, and the city of LaGrange, want to acknowledge the police departments failure to take crucial action in its obligation to protect Austin Callaway," LaGrange Police Chief Louis Dekmar said at a remembrance service for Callaway. "I am profoundly sorry. It should never have happened."



Dekmar said he sincerely regretted and denounced the role police played in the lynching "both through our action and inaction." He admitted the "record of the police department's efforts to locate Austin after he was kidnapped is absent," and that "not surprisingly -- and, sadly -- so is any investigation into his murder." It was not clear what Callaway had been jailed for at the time.



The police chief also said he owed an apology to the black community "that has lived the burning frustration of injustice."



"An acknowledgment and apology is necessary to aid in healing wounds of past brutalities and injustice, so we can build a better future," he said.



LaGrange Mayor Jim Thornton said at the remembrance service that it is important to "know and understand the historic injustice ... else we are threatened by the possibility of repetition."



"Undeniably, progress has been made on issues of racial injustice and discrimination, but there is much more work to do," Thornton said. "And until we have a full and complete acknowledgment of the past, we can never fully heal. That is why events such as tonight are so important."



Other city leaders, including a judge and president of a college, spoke and offered apologies to Callaway's family and the black community on behalf of the city's judiciary system and the broader community.



Members of the local and state NAACP chapters accepted the apologies, as well as Deborah Tatem, a distant relative of Callaway.



"I speak your name, Austin Callaway, and ask God for forgiveness for the people who did this inhumane thing to you," Tatem said at the remembrance service. "Some might say 'forgiveness?' And I say to you that I believe God when he tells us that there is power and freedom in forgiveness.

Copyright  2017, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.
Featured Post Free Peltier in Paris -- Survival: Kathy Peltier, Jean Roach and Lona Knight 42EME JOURNEE DE SOLIDARITE DU CSIA INTERVENTIONS DE KATHY PELTIER, JEAN ROACH, LONA KNIGHT Recorded and transcribed by Christine Prat in Pa...

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About Censored News Censored News is published by Brenda Norrell. Since 2006, Censored News has received more than 20 million pageviews. As a collective of writers, photographers and broadcasters, we publish news of Indigenous Peoples and human rights. Contact publisher Brenda Norrell: brendanorrell@gmail.com

From the publisher Censored News is published by Brenda Norrell, a journalist in Indian country for 40 years. Norrell created Censored News after she was censored and terminated as a staff reporter at Indian Country Today in 2006. She began as a reporter at Navajo Times during the 18 years that she lived on the Navajo Nation. She was a stringer for AP and USA Today and later traveled with the Zapatistas through Mexico. She has been blacklisted by all the mainstream media for 14 years. Contact brendanorrell@gmail.com

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ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates  After the Maidan Shar police district in Afghanistan came through U.S. military training with the highest rating, now-retired Army Lt. Col. Jeff Camp, a Queensbury native, called for a celebration and barbecue.

We asked the Afghan officers what they would like for the barbecue. I offered beef, chicken or lamb, but all were met with a no, Camp said. What else is there? Surely not pork?

An Afghan police lieutenant responded.

We would like goat.

Camp wondered. Where am I going to get goat? How many goats will I need? How much will they cost?

I turned to my interpreter, a local Afghan, he thought for a moment and said, Sir, you will need four goats to feed all of them,  Camp said, partially laughing while sharing the tale.

The interpreter continued. I can bring them from Kabul (60 miles away) and they will cost $25 USD each.

Camp responded.

From Kabul, how are you going to get them to us?

I will bring them in the taxi, the interpreter said.

And so goes the goat tale that Camp said was hilarious, especially when the goats arrived and jumped out of the taxi.

I remember it so vividly, we laughed so hard, said the Bronze Star decorated veteran who led the 33rd Brigade Special Troops Battalion and served in both Iraq and Afghanistan during his 32-year military career. Soldiers are soldiers; we found a way to have a good time.

Camp, 52, who graduated in 1983 from Queensbury High School and played outside linebacker for the 1982 Foothills Council champion, the Queensbury Spartans, wrote down the goat story at the urging of friends. One story led to two, and in three weeks he had a pile of zany tales from his decades of military service.

Still, he didnt really have enough for a book.

Along with his stories, Camp had a budding inventory of inventive recipes created after years of cooking, experimenting and several cooking classes with international chefs, like Chef Luca at Hotel Borgo di Cortefreda, Tavarnelle Val di Pesa, Tuscany.

So he combined the stories and recipes into a memoir-cookbook  Is Goat Beef?  that offers an intimate look at the bonds developed in the midst of sometimes difficult times.

The stories in this book are about camaraderie, shared misery and the love shared by brothers-in-arms, Camp says in the book.

And such life anecdotes connect and ground the recipes to the authors history on the front lines, according to Kirkus Indie Reviews.

Camps adventures in basic training inspire appetizers like flavorful Roasted Corn Salad and a temptingly easy potato salad with dill and stone ground mustard. A hilarious misadventure with dog food somehow dictates a tempting recipe for Italian Polpette, the reviewer writes. Camps time in Poland is reflected in a slow-cooked recipe for Bigos Stew ... A closing section ... peaks with a standout concoction for Camps grandfathers Top-Secret Manhattan, a pitcher of which the elder drank almost every evening.

After his 1983 graduation, several of Camps buddies were signing up with the Queensbury Army recruiter and Camp signed up, too.

A bunch of kids talked me into it, he said, adding that at the time he had no direction or idea of what he was going to do with his life.

It gave me structure and showed me a thousand different ways to earn a living that I did not want to do, he said from his home in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. It allowed me to grow up and know the value of an education.

Camp enlisted in the military as a private and retired as a lieutenant colonel; he completed the U.S. Army War College with a masters in strategic studies. And he earned a Bronze Star during each of his combat deployments.

In his early years, Camp was deployed to Honduras during the Reagan era. I had no idea what was going on, I was a 19-year-old private, he said. I didnt even know where Honduras was on the map. We just thought we were on some cool mission.

And the crazy tales, like the ones he shares in his book, are the ones he wants to remember. I will forget the misery, he said. But I will always remember the goat story.

In addition to his military history, Camp is the director of Systems Group Storage, Middle East & Africa, for IBM and has been working for the technology giant for about 20 years.

Camp has been coming up with recipes most of his life. Growing up, his mother worked the 3 to 11 shift as a nurse at Glens Falls Hospital and she would say to Camp and his siblings, put the oven on 350 degrees and cook this chicken.

I thought, I wish we had fried chicken, and I started cooking; it was an easy thing, he said.

In recent years, Camp and wife Mari-Ann Kucharek, who did all the photography and editing for the book, went to a Thai cooking school and learned more about cooking in Tuscany.

Camp credits all the cooking influences in his life, including his mother and grandmother and the teachings of professional chefs.

The book is dedicated to all the Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors, Marines and Coasties, as well as to our fellow law enforcement and reghters ... The call to service is only answered by a few, but it impacts many. In this dedication, too, are the Gold Star Families of all our fallen comrades. May you nd some peace and humor in knowing that we all love what we do, did, and will do in the future.

One dollar from each book sold will be donated to the charity Paws for Purple Hearts, which gets dog-assisted therapy to veterans and active-duty military personnel with post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, mobility issues, chronic pain, depression and military sexual trauma.

A sampling of recipes from Is Goat Beef?

CHERRY TOMATO, BUFFALO MOZZARELLA AND PESTO

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Serves: Makes 20 skewers

Skill: Simple

YOU WILL NEED THE FOLLOWING:

1 lb cherry tomatoes

8 oz of small-balled Buffalo mozzarella

2 cups fresh basil leaves

3 cloves garlic

3/4 cup of pine nuts

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil (EVO)

1/2 cup Parmesan (Romano) cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Toothpicks

In a food processor or blender add basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, cheese and a small amount of ice. The ice will keep the pesto from turning brown while mixing. Turn the blender on low and slowly add EVO. As the pesto liquees, you may need to turn the blender off and use a spatula to push in any of the mixture that is not yet fully blended. Continue mixing until pesto is evenly liqueed.

Cut cherry tomatoes in half. Using the toothpick as a mini skewer, rst, slot one of half tomatoes onto the toothpick. Next add a mozzarella ball and nally, the other half of the tomato. Drizzle skewer with the pesto. Serve remaining pesto in a small dish at the side, if needed.

Tip: The leftover pesto can also be served over pasta, with garlic bread or on toast, in salads or on arancini (recipe in the book).

BACHELOR BEAN DIP

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Serves: 8-10 people

Skill: Simple

YOU WILL NEED THE FOLLOWING:

1 can refried-beans

1 lb ground beef

1 tbsp vegetable oil

1 lb ground sausage (or 2 lbs ground beef/sausage your choice)

1 medium white onion-diced

1 16 oz jar picante sauce

1 16 oz back of Colby jack cheese

1 8 oz container of sour cream

2-3 medium fresh or jarred jalapenos to taste

In a large frying pan, saute onions in oil. Once onions are soft, add meat and brown. Once brown, drain any remaining fat from the pan and add can of beans and picante sauce. Mix together and heat until mixture is evenly heated. Add package of cheese and stir until all cheese is melted and evenly mixed with the other ingredients.Remove from heat, stir in sour cream if desired or serve on the side.Serve warm with jalapenos and nacho chips.

GUACAMOLE

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Serves: Makes three cups

Skill: Simple

You will need the following:

2 soft avocados

3 cloves of garlic pressed

1 medium tomato diced

1 small white onion diced

1 medium white onion- diced

1 tbsp cumin

1/2 Lime

Mix ingredients in a wooden bowl until well blended. Squeeze in lime. This will help to prevent the guacamole from turning brown.

In a large frying pan, saute onions in oil. Once onions are soft, add meat and brown. Once brown, drain any remaining fat from the pan and add can of beans and picante sauce. Mix together and heat until mixture is evenly heated. Add package of cheese and stir until all cheese is melted and evenly mixed with the other ingredients.Remove from heat, stir in sour cream if desired or serve on the side. Serve warm with jalapenos and nacho chips.
A Queensbury man is headed to prison for up to 9 years for a burglary in Kingsbury and a spree of thefts from parked cars in Kingsbury.

Jeffrey W. Fish Jr., 21, of Burke Drive, pleaded guilty earlier this month to third-degree burglary for a theft from a building in Kingsbury late last year.

He was wanted for violating probation in Warren County at the time of that arrest, as he has been put on probation for a 2014 spate of thefts from cars in Queensbury. Among the items he stole was $1,850 worth of camera equipment from a car on Thistlewood Drive, and a debit card from a car on Ridge Road, court records show.

He pleaded guilty to grand larceny in that case, and was to participate in the county's drug treatment court but absconded, according to court records.

Fish had an extensive criminal record that included a prior felony conviction. Warren County Judge John Hall sentenced him to 2 to 4 years in state prison, which is to run consecutive to a 2.5- to 5-year term he is to get from Washington County Judge Kelly McKeighan for the Kingsbury burglary.
A three-hour ride north from New York City on a snowy winter night is no fun for anyone.

Particularly if youre stuck in the engine compartment of the van in which you were riding.

A 10-year-old cat, named Gumbo, who is from the Big Apple learned that the hard way this week, hitching a ride to Queensbury under the hood of a Honda Odyssey and somehow surviving the ordeal unscathed.

Jim Fitzgerald, director of the Warren County SPCA, was called to The Great Escape Lodge on Monday night by lodge security after a New York City family that had arrived for a stay reported finding a cat under the hood.

Fitzgerald said they smelled a foul odor that resembled cat urine in the car during the trip, and when they arrived in Queensbury, thought they heard meowing underneath the hood.

When they popped the hood, an orange cat was buried deep down under hoses, toward the passenger compartment.

When I first saw it, I said, Is it alive? Fitzgerald asked. Then I saw it move. It was a little standoffish at first and a little lethargic, but he let me get him out.

Shockingly, the tabby seemed to have made it the 240 or so miles with virtually no injuries. The engine compartment was filled with cat hair, but after an exam and some food and water, the cat was doing fine, according to Fitzgerald.

Animals sometimes climb under cars in the winter when they feel the warmth coming off them, Fitzgerald explained.

The storys ending got happier on Thursday and was capped off Friday evening, when the SPCA and its social media followers connected the wayward feline with his owner.

The SPCA shared the story on its Facebook page, and after more then 2,300 shares, Raven Huang of New York City came forward and identified the cat as his.

Huang and Gumbo were reunited Friday evening at the Warren County SPCA after Gumbo was missing for more than 13 days.

It is very comforting that there are a number of great people out there, Huang said after being reunited with his cat.

Huang said Gumbo escaped from a cat carrier in Manhattan Beach on his way to a veterinary appointment Jan. 14 to be neutered. Since Gumbo never made it to the appointment, the Warren County SPCA performed the procedure.

God bless the SPCA and to all the animal lovers out there who have love and compassion in their hearts for our animals, wrote Roberta Engelfried, a friend of the cats owner who had been involved in the New York City search, in a Facebook post. I am just over the moon and cant wait to see him!

Fitzgerald said Facebook has proved to be a great tool for reuniting owners with lost pets.

We put them on there and a lot of times within 10 minutes we find the owner, he said.

It was a great ending, Fitzgerald said.
GLENS FALLS  The group of Warren County residents whose analyses prompted criminal investigations of two alternative energy projects at Warren County-owned buildings has called for an inquiry into a $15 million project that the same contractor handled at the Glens Falls wastewater treatment plant.

Queensbury resident Travis Whitehead said a review of the citys contracts with Siemens Building Technologies led to the conclusion that Siemens may have done work based on an energy performance contract that was not permissible.

Energy performance contracts (EPCs) are supposed to be used for work that improves energy efficiency. While part of the Glens Falls project was designed to improve energy efficiency, most of it was for capital improvements and repairs that didnt affect energy use, Whitehead said. Hypothetically, EPCs allow municipalities to bypass bidding requirements to make efficiency changes more quickly, but some have been critical of abuse of them.

These projects dealt with infrastructure upgrades at the wastewater treatment plant and the promise of increased revenues rather than energy savings, Whitehead said. Only about 25 percent of the savings are measured energy savings, with 75 percent coming from increased revenues based on taking septic fluids from haulers, and sludge from other sewer plants.

Glens Falls 2nd Ward Supervisor Peter McDevitt, who has reviewed the groups analysis, said he believed the project seemed to be aclear-cut violation of EPC rules, and said he planned to speak to Glens Falls Mayor Jack Diamond about it.

The review prompted the group to ask Warren County District Attorney Kate Hogan to look into the situation and consult the state Attorney Generals Office about the legality of the contract. Hogan said Friday she had no comment on the matter.

Whitehead, an electrical engineer, was part of a group that questioned whether Warren County got the energy savings it was promised in natural gas cogeneration and geothermal systems built by Siemens at its former nursing home and Municipal Center, respectively. Warren County is mulling possible litigation and has been discussing potential settlements with Siemens for nearly three years.

Whitehead said he learned about the Glens Falls project through a Siemens list of customers in New York. Working with former Queensbury Supervisor at-Large Mark Westcott and Queensbury resident Doug Auer, he reviewed dozens of pages of documents obtained through Freedom of Information requests.

Were hoping Kate Hogan will take this to the attorney general, Whitehead said.

The Glens Falls Common Council entered into energy performance contracts with Siemens in 2008 and 2009, calling for nearly $15 million in improvements at the Shermantown Road sewer plant. The city will pay more than $1 million a year for the work until 2026.

A large portion of the project included work on the plants sludge incinerator, which has since been permanently shut down because of environmental issues, Whitehead pointed out. But the city will be paying for that work for years to come, he said.

Glens Falls Mayor Jack Diamond referred comment on the projects to city Engineer Steve Gurzler.

Gurzler said city leaders were cautious with the contracts, vetted them and were satisfied with what Siemens has done. The city had to do the work to bring the plant into compliance with environmental regulations, and the Siemens contracts allowed the city to do so quickly, he explained.

Even with the incinerator shut down, the plant was able to use some of the improvements made under the Siemens contract to better dry sludge, which has netted savings when taking it to be burned off site, Gurzler said.

The city was able to get grant funding that paid for a large portion of the work, Gurzler added.

We dont have any problems with what Siemens has done. I think we got a good value out of it, he said. We had a lot of catching up to do after the end of our arrangement with Earth Tech. We upgraded equipment to have it work again properly, which generated a lot of savings.

More efficient lighting was added, and fuel oil use for drying sludge and using the incinerator was substantially reduced, Gurzler added. Better drying of sludge is saving the city about $140,000 a year, he said.

Upgrading the plants aeration system allowed it to continue to process waste from Ames Goldsmiths Glens Falls plant, which has helped their business in Glens Falls, Gurzler added.

Whether the work met the criteria for an EPC was a philosophical question that Gurzler said he couldnt answer as an engineer.

Siemens did not respond to a request for comment as of Friday afternoon, but has previously defended its work on the Warren County projects that have been questioned.
News / Local

by Stephen Jakes

MDC-T President Morgan Tsvangirai has continued on his listening tour when he engaged opinion leaders in Bulawayo and Plumtree in Matabeleland South who he met today (Friday).The tour continues to reflect a region with deep-seated feelings of marginalisation, neglect and abandonment by an uncaring government that has no love for its people. The people continued to pour their hearts out to a leader they love and whom they thanked for giving them an opportunity to input into the alliance building process and the sculpting of a new society beyond Mugabe and Zanu PF in 2018.So frank and open were the meetings that at one point in Bulawayo, one opinion leader made an emotional outburst in which he bemoaned the marginalisation of the people in the Matabeleland region.Both in Bulawayo and Plumtree, they were strong feelings not only about the collapse of the political economy, but also of the deep wounds inflicted by the State-sponsored Gukurahundi atrocities. There were several suggestions on how to deal with this grievance so that the nation puts closure to this painful period in the country's history.The suggestions ranged from the payment of reparations to the implementation of devolution as a permanent solution to the bad politics of exclusion that Zanu PF has pursued in the past.This was confirmed by his spokesperson Luke Tamborinyoka who said Tsvangirai took time during the engagements to clear the air about the false reports that he had already traded off some seats to the coalition partners."The alliance negotiations had not even begun and the reports were false and malicious as there was no agreement yet. He said the new government must be inclusive and must prioritise merit and not tribe. The opinion leaders had strong feelings on gender representation in the new government and said while they supported the alliance, it must be sculpted in a way that would inspire the people and ensure that change comes in 2018," he said."Most of the input by the people are of a strategic nature and are meant to enrich both the alliance building process and the post-Mugabe government policies that should promote development and inclusivity. As part of his mass-line approach to politics, it is President Tsvangirai's belief that public participation can only enhance and enrich the party's approach to national issues that affect the people. The opinion leaders that are being engaged represent the breadth of leaders ranging from traditional leaders, civic leaders as well as leaders in church and business, among many others sectors."Tamborinyoka said on Saturday Tsvangirai will address a provincial assembly meeting in Bulawayo, after which he will go on a short break before proceeding to the other provinces to solicit the people's views at this delicate political moment for the country.
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News / National

by Stephen Jakes

The Civil rights activist Linda Masarira has said in Zimbabwe it appears there is freedom of expression but no freedom after expression a development which she said violates the international declaration of human rights to a wider extent.She said according to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, freedom of expression is the right of every individual to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers."Section 61 of the constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (no. 20) Act 2013 allows for freedom of expression and freedom of the media yet it is continuously violated by the state as there is no freedom after expression in Zimbabwe. Communicating an idea can land you in jail in Zimbabwe as long as it is political and against the ruling government. Silvanos Mudzvova has been detained and released by police officers several times for freedom of artistic expression," Masarira said."Most activists in Zimbabwe including myself have been arrested and assaulted by the police, time and again for exercising their right of Freedom of expression. Everyone has the right to freedom of expression. Freedom of speech is a prerequisite for democracy and guarantor of societal development. Zimbabwe cannot reform out of dictatorship if fundamental rights like freedom of expression are being violated. Freedom of expression allows free flow of ideas and opinions at the same time creating a wealth of ideas and drives innovation."She said citizens who have being expressing themselves on social media have been labelled cyber terrorists."The government of Zimbabwe and senior security officials have issued intimidating statements against activists. Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces General Constantino Chirenda, Police Commissioner General Augustine Chihuri and Army Commander Lieutenant General Valerio Sibanda issued warnings last year against citizens abusing social media to share information and organize protests. Freedom of expression is a principle that must never be taken for granted. It must always be defended," she said."Journalists are not spared from this infringement of Freedom of expression and freedom of the media as enshrined in section 61 of Zimbabwe's constitution. It is a cumbersome process to register as an accredited journalist in Zimbabwe. There is limited access to information and foreign media is restricted from observing and covering issues in Zimbabwe."She said on 3 August 2016, members of the riot police assaulted freelance journalists Lawrence Chimunhu, Christopher Mahove and Tendai Musiya as they covered demonstrations against the Zimbabwe government's plans to introduce bond notes in the wake of a deteriorating socio-economic environment."We will continue expressing ourselves freely as it is our constitutional right. No amount of torture, victimization and intimidation will silence us. A new Zimbabwe is possible in our lifetime,said Masarira.
News / Regional

by The Citizen Bulletin

ZIMBABWE'S long time ruler Robert Mugabe faces fresh trouble over his alleged Gukurahundi crimes which he committed between 1983 and 1987.His Zanu PF party has announced that it will hold the nonagenarian's annual birthday bash in Matabeleland South's Matobo district where most innocent civilians perceived to be the late Joshua Nkomo, then leader of the ZAPU party, supporters were butchered in cold blood by Mugabe's Korean trained army.A pressure-group-turned-political-party - Mthwakazi Republic Party (MRP) - has vowed to stop Mugabe's lavish party arguing that the fete would be "a celebration of the 1980 genocide which claimed an estimated 20 000 people in the Midlands and Matabeleland provinces.The killings are popularly known as Gukurahundi - an incident which soon-to-be 93 year-old Mugabe has described as "a moment of madness.""We cannot allow Zanu PF to throw a birthday party near the Bhalagwe Gukurahundi mass graves. To us this is a celebration of the atrocities," MRP said during a presser to announce its intent to contest Zimbabwe's 2018 elections in Bulawayo mid week.Bhalagwe is a disused section of the Antelope Mine where the Fifth Brigade - believed to have been sent by Mugabe tortured and mercilessly buried people alive in the shallow grave. The mine has never been opened since then and bones of the deceased have not been properly buried to date.Relatives of the Gukurahundi victims believe that reburying their relatives properly constitute a step towards justice. However, the Zimbabwe government led by Mugabe has since time immemorial made sure that the matter remains a "closed case" and at worst taboo to discuss publicly.Asked what he thought about the decision by Zanu PF party to hold the celebrations in Matobo, former ZIPRA intelligence supremo and current ZAPU president Dumiso Dabengwa said "the matter was not for politicians"."It is (you) civil society who must decide what to do about the issue. It's not for us politicians to take a move," Dabengwa said during a civic dialogue meeting organised by the Public Policy Research Institute of Zimbabwe in Bulawayo on Wednesday this week."The Maleme community did it and the civil society there in Matopo took a stand and said no this cannot happen here; so I am sure you can still do something about this," he added.Ironically, ZANU PF continues with the preparations for the bash scheduled for next month undeterred.In a statement gleaned by The Citizen Bulletin, Matobo villagers said they have no power to stop Mugabe but they do not want him to set his foot in the area whose dwellers are still apparently grieving Gukurahundi atrocities."We have no powers to stop His Excellency from celebrating his birthday where ever he wants to, if we had, we would not want him to dare step his foot in Matobo but history will record that we are against it and that we warned," a statement issued by the villagers through Matobo Community Development Trust read in part."We appeal to the broader Civil Society, opposition parties, media and everyone who is sane and cares to stand in solidarity with us during this painful time of celebrating Mugabe's birthday."We may be arrested, tortured and even disappear; we live in fear but our spirits are unwavering. We are being threatened and forced to attend by the regime against our will," further read the statement.
Opinion / Columnist

"Zanu PF an untouchable machine, declares Mliswa" - Spare us the crap Mliswa we know why Zanu PF is untouchable if you don't know I will spell it for you. Zanu PF is untouchable because it has created a toxic system where undemocratic practices are passed on as democratic. Zanu PF is untouchable because elections are a shame in Zimbabwe, the electoral playing field heavily favors Zanu PF and one wonders why the opposition even bothers to contest these flowed polls. Zanu PF is untouchable because Mugabe has created a bootlicking cabal that kneels and grovel at his table whilst corruption, looting, greed, plunder, theft and gross mismanagement of almost everything continues unabated . If you don't believe me just look at the state of roads and plundered farms around the country. The cabal is rewarded generously for bootlicking loyalty, if you don't believe me again just ask Jonathan Moyo he is free as a bird after admitting to doing a Robin Hood to Zimdef funds. Zanu PF is untouchable because Zec is heavily politicized to an extent that free and fare polls are impossible in Zimbabwe. It is very sad to hear Zapu declaring Dabengwa as their 2018 presidential candidate.My first question is if everyone is aware of the need for electoral reforms why is the opposition even bothering to contest these shamefully flawed polls? I'm sure Dabengwa, Mujuru and Madhuku know the answer to this question, but l for one am not interested in knowing the answer because it's obvious the answer has to do with the overbearing lust for power. Remember Madhuku transformed NCA into a political party just to stay at the helm and as the leader. It boggles the mind just trying to understand why Madhuku risks the lives of NCA candidates for a mare 300 votes because Madock Chivasa is still nursing the wounds of that brutal beating at the hands of Zanu PF thugs right now as I pen this piece. My plea to Madhuku is please have a heart 300 votes is not worth a human life. My other plea to all opposition leaders, the Mai Mujurus, Madhukus of this world is please you are murdering our future by contesting in Zimbabwe polls that are being held under the present prevailing evil conditions. Politicians please have a heart and boycott all polls in Zimbabwe until electoral reforms are made its the only way to dismantle this evil system, trust me a coalition under these treacherous conditions will never succeed.Now back to Mliswa, you boldly declare that "if Zanu PF focuses on Implementing the policies of its Manifesto it will be untouchable". Well that will never happen because Zanu PF never focuses on implementing policies and programs that enhances the lives of ordinary Zimbabweans since 1980, why? Because it's a party obsessed with maintaining and retaining power. In the 80s they focused on crushing Zapu and establishing a one party state. Soon after the Zapu threat was dealt with they briefly focused on crushing Edgar Tekere's Zum in the early 90s and remember Patrick Kombayi was shot because of Zum. Still in the 90s the economy was sacrificed to pacify restive war veterans and we see the results of that ill advised payout today as Zimbabwe has no currency. In the 2000s era came the threat of the MDC and the fight and quest to crush it completely obliterated the economy and left it in tatters as Zanu PF went for broke just to stay in power, again if you don't believe me just look at the state of the economy , it has never recovered up to today.So please Mliswa don't try to have us believe that Zanu PF is not focusing on the economy because of the succession issue. The truth of the matter is Zanu PF has never and will never focus on bettering the lives of Zimbabweans and it's track record speaks for itself. Please Mliswa remember Africa is cursed with the politics of power, in this land power matters above all and electoral promises are never implemented. Just look at Zanu PF it's 2013 electoral promises not even one was implemented, why? Because the objective to retain power was achieved. Now we read that Jonathan Moyo has launched a sanctions impact research to the tune of $150 000, already l smell a scapegoat being cooked to be ready for 2018 where a propaganda blitz will be launched to justify why Zanu PF failed to fulfill 2013 electoral promises, this will be hammered home hard through the aid of statistics and data from this hideous research which is being fronted by Zanu PF sympathizers. Since Moyo is the election campaign strategy go to guy for Zanu PF he will simply champion the, we failed to implement 2013 promises because of sanctions and here Is a research document to prove it. How convenient to be Zanu PF, so Mliswa go back to Zanu PF and stop making embarrassing statements, by so doing you proving beyond reasonable doubts that all ex Zanu PF people can never be trusted. Meanwhile we look in awe as Donald Trump has already started fulfilling election promises, oil pipeline is being revived, the coal mines resuscitated and Obama Care being repelled and this is all being done within the first weekIn power. Why is this so you may ask? Because in developed countries power lies with the people not with the politicians, that's why in Africa the people only matter during voting.So Mliswa please return to Zanu PF you attained your seat in parliament with the help of opposition politicians and activists and now you attack them as lacking the answers to solve Zimbabwe's problems how convenient! Let those who have the balls to stick to what they believe in soldier on whilst you go back to Zanu PF with your tail tucked between your legs trust me Mliswa others will be following right behind you and we won't be surprised.
Opinion / Columnist

"The president (Tsvangirai) said one swallow does not make a summer and Bikita West is the swallow. It was a farcical election that cannot be used to measure someone's popularity," Tsvangirai's spokesperson, Luke Tamborinyoka told the Daily News."Yes, there are some people who want to use it to undermine the coalition. However, we will not allow that because we have already decided to do a cow-horn formation on Zanu-PF."The Bikita West by-elections confirmed what most people have been saying about Mai Mujuru and her Zim PF, that the she and her party are all bluff and no substance. Zim PF boosted that they will stop Zanu PF rigging elections because they know how the regime rigged elections. The Bikita West by-elections results showed ZimPF's presence had no effect!The Bikita West by-election results confirms nothing has changed, it is the first swallow but of many to follow. We do not need to go through yet another election process in 2018 to know the result is yet another rigged election; the Bikita West by-election was the warning of what is certain to come!We need to implement the democratic reforms now before holding the next elections if we are going to stop Zanu PF rigging the next elections. Tsvangirai and his friends have their heads buried in the sand, they will only believe Zanu PF can rig elections AFTER the elections are rigged.Zimbabwe is in a serious economic and political mess, millions of our people now live in abject poverty and life expectancy has plummeted from 68 years when Zanu PF first came into power in 1980 to 34 years in 2004, the last time it was measure. Life expectancy has grown in most of the other countries in the region in the same period and countries like Angola and Mozambique had as much as 5 to 10 years better life expectancy than us.Zimbabwe cannot afford another five years of Zanu PF corrupt and tyrannical rule and push the nation even deeper into poverty and hopelessness. MDC will once again admit, after the 2018 elections have been rigged, that Zanu PF stole the elections and the party's "cow-horn formation against Zanu PF was useless. No doubt, they will renew their promise not to contest any elections until reforms are implemented, just as they did after the rigged 2013 elections. But what comfort will all the admission be to the millions unemployed to whom poverty now spells death who will have to endure another five years of this corrupt and tyrannical Zanu PF dictatorship!The coalition between MDC and ZImPF is not the panacea to stop Zanu PF rigging the 2018 elections, implementing the reform is that cure. Taking part in the next elections with not even one reform in place is madness and we have seen this madness in 2013 and on many other occasions in the past.It was the greatest physicist and intellectual, Albert Einstein who said "Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results."Zanu PF will rig the 2018 elections with or with the grand MDC-ZimPF coalition as long as there are no democratic reforms in place. After 37 years of rigged elections we KNOW Zanu PF has mastered the art vote rigging to perfection. We do not need to go through another meaningless election process to know that!
The most interesting story at the company formerly known as Google is the fate of its Other Bets category  the projects that lie outside of the companys core businesses of Google search and advertising, like its Nest smart home products, Fiber internet service, and Verily life-sciences unit.

Alphabet has put these bets under increased scrutiny in the last year, and the thinning-down seems to have had an effect. On Thursday, Alphabet said the category made $262 million in revenue, a 74% increase from the year-ago quarter. Its operating loss was lower, too.
The affected countries include Ghana, Nigeria, Congo, Chad, Gabon, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Niger, Rwanda, Seychelles, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia.

BloombergQuint quotes Bharti Airtel Chairman Sunil Bharti Mittal as saying "the move would pare the size of operations in the continent and could be completed within a year....some of Bhartis businesses in 14 African nations would be affected."

This confirms earlier rumors that Airtel and Tigo will merge in Ghana this year and will be taken over by a French telecom giant, Orange.

A further confirmation was a hint by some local telecom executives who told this writer they have been approached by Orange with a job offer in Ghana, while some Airtel and Tigo vendors close to talks on the matter have also confirmed they have been approached to start preparing for the change over.

A Tigo Ghana executive also confirmed in a conversation with some industry stakeholders that "the merger will happen".

Two years ago, when Airtel began talks to sell off its operations in Burkina Faso, Chad, Congo Brazzaville and Sierra Leone to Orange, the company had stated that it wouldnt be exiting Africa.

But mobilityarena.com reports the sale of the 14 operations in Africa has become necessary because Bharti Airtel is faced with poor performance across those markets and that is shoring up its debt portfolio.

Bhartis African unit, for instance, lost $91 million in the quarter ended September 2016, compared with a $170 million loss same period in the previous year.

The Indian global telecoms giant is therefore looking for ways to pare net debt equivalent to about $12 billion by September this year.

In Ghana, Airtel recently instituted charges for services it used to offer for free, and made a failed attempt to take more money from its value added service partners, and the VAS folk suspended services in protest of a 80-20 per cent revenue share arrange in favour of Airtel.

Indeed, since MTN went 4G in Ghana last year, there have been moves by Tigo and Vodafone to join, but Airtel, which is part of the top four telcos in Ghana, is pretty much silent about 4G LTE.

In Nigeria, Airtel is the only one of the big four mobile operators that is yet to launch a 4G LTE network.

Back in Airtels home country, India, Reliance Jio is reported giving Airtel a big run for their money in a fierce price war that is reportedly depleting their gains.

As part of moves to reduce it debts, Bharti is also considering selling it 73.5 per cent stake in its tower unit, Bharti Infratel Ltd., but a decision is yet to be taken whether to sell minority or controlling shares.

Airtel Ghana is the fourth biggest operator out of six operators. Its subscriber base stands at 4.68 million, representing a market share of 12.54 per cent. It data subscriptions is a little over three million, representing some 15.71 per cent market share.
A man cant be with one woman, she emphasized on Akumaa Mama Zimbis Show.

She also added, most of her male friends; married or dating are always parading in town with other women other than their partners but she doesnt inform their women.

I always see my friends and husbands in town. I dont tell their wives. Because when you leave the next person will do the same thing. It is just respect and love.

READ ALSO: Photos

Famous of flaunting her curves, Moesha added she has always been faithful in all her relationships.

When I love you, I love you. When am in love. When is one person, one person.

Earlier the Cocoa Brown star stated will never leave her man if he cheats. Regardless of her enviable curves and flawless skin, men cheat on her.

R EAD ALSO: Pulse Style

"Men always cheat on me. Whether rich or poor, they will cheat. Men are men, they are gonna cheat. You can be Kim Kardashian or Beyonce, they will cheat but I am never going to leave my man because he cheated.

READ ALSO:Celebrity Couple
The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Flagstaff House on Friday evening.

The President entreated the ministers to work towards achieving policies promised Ghanaians by the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) during the 2016 general elections.

He also charged them to protect the public purse and ensure value for money in any activity they undertake.

The Foreign Affairs Minister-designate, Shirley Ayorkor Botchway was not sworn in since she is in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia for a summit.

President Akufo-Addo said he would swear her in when he joins her in Ethiopia Saturday.

The Ministers sworn in include:

Finance Minister, Ken Ofori Atta

Trade and Industry Minister, Alan Kyerematen

Justice Minister, Gloria Akuffo

National Security Minister, Albert Kan Dapaah

Defence Minister, Dominic Nitiwul

Local Government Minister, Hajia Alima Mahama

Interior Minister, Ambrose Dery

Education Minister, Matthew Opoku Prempeh

Health Minister, Kwaku Agyemang-Manu

Agriculture Minister, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto

Senior Minister, Yaw Osafo-Maafo
The Summit, which will take place from the 30th to 31st of January, was preceded by a meeting of the Executive Council which started on Friday.

The African leaders will also elect a new Chairperson for the African Union Commission during the summit.

A statement issued by the presidency and signed by the Acting Director of Communications, Eugene Arhin said prior to the commencement of the Ordinary Session of the Assembly on Monday, a retreat for the Heads of State will be held on Sunday, January 29, 2017 immediately after a breakfast meeting with the new Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres.

This will be Nana Addos second trip outside Ghana after his inauguration as President.

The president will also use the opportunity to swear in the Minister-designate for Foreign Affairs, Shirley Ayorkor Botchway at the Ghana embassy in the Ethiopian capital today [Saturday].

The President on Friday swore in 12 ministers out of the thirteen who had been approved by Parliament. Ms Shirley Ayorkor Botchway although part of the 13 was not sworn in because she is currently in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The NDC Member of Parliament said they (the minority) received the money thinking it was sitting allowance for being part of the Appointments Committee only to be told it was coming from the minister designate.

He said they rejected the money and asked that the money be returned to him.

The Chairman of the Appointments Committee, Mr Osei Owusu and the Energy Minister have denied the claims.

A statement signed by the acting Director of Public Affairs, Kate Addo, Parliament has also described the allegation as frivolous.

Parliament has noted with grave concern, allegations that the Leadership and Members of the Appointments Committee have been bribed by some of the Presidents nominees to facilitate the recommendation of approval of their nomination as ministers to the House.

Parliament will like to state categorically and without any equivocation that these allegations are frivolous and vexatious, and should be discarded, it said.

The statement added: Parliament attaches a lot of importance to its constitutional duties and abhors practices that will not only affect its work but also bring the institution into disrepute. Therefore extreme care is taken and thorough background checks are made before chairpersons to the various committees are appointed.
Conspiracy Theory Alleges Donald Trump Was Actually Murdered In The 1980s

Trending News: Who's Up For A Juicy Conspiracy Theory About President Trump?

Quick Take

Everyone loves a good conspiracy theory. Whether it's Ted Cruz being the Zodiac Killer, or Katy Perry actually being a grown-up JonBenet Ramsey, there's nothing more fun than briefly considering a hairbrained idea before dismissing it as ridiculous. The latest, however, involves none other than President Donald Trump. What if, he's not actually Donald Trump at all, but...

A CLONE PLANTED BY THE ILLUMINATI AFTER THEY MURDERED HIM IN THE 1980s?!?!?!? I dunno, decide for yourself:

The Donald Trump you see now campaigning on stage for the election is a clone, says YouTuber yahua servant. Hes dead, his family and daughter and wife are fake mannequins  kids fake, dead. See the skin? Its a mannequin.

There were plenty of jokes made about Melania being robotic (or just over this shit) based on her expressions at the Inauguration, but a clone and/or automaton? That's something.

Death And Taxes breaks down servant's (very compelling) argument thusly:

1. The red ties Trump often wears are the mark of Satan, and the president frequently makes Masonic gestures. Thus, he is a demon. 2. Melanias eyes are robotoid eyes. They cannot belong to a real person, thus, she is a mannequin. 3. Trumps yuge pupils are also robotoid, which expose him as a clone. Not normal." 4. Trump has been photographed making handgun gestures, which is actually a sign for devil horns. Its fake, cloned all synthetics. 5. Melania and Trumps son is also apparently a robotoid as well. Those eyes.

SEEMS PRETTY AIRTIGHT TO ME. If a red tie is the mark of Satan, that would explain... a whole hell of a lot, actually, given that practically every elected official in Washington has been spotted in a red tie at one point or another, regardless of political affiliation.

Has Donald Trump actually been replaced by a clone/mannequin/"robotoid" because he was murdered by a shadowy world government 30 years ago? Probably not, no, but we live in a world of alternative facts where the burden of proof is now on the person disputing the claim, not the one making it.

H/T: Brobible

Drop This Fact

The real Illuminati, a secret society opposing superstition, obscurantism, religious influence over public life and abuses of state power, was founded on May 1, 1776.
"Tears are running down the cheeks of the Statue of Liberty tonight," Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York said on Friday, "a grand tradition of America, welcoming immigrants, that has existed since America was founded, has been stomped upon.

House Democratic Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi offered similar expressions in her own statement: "As the Statue of Liberty holds her torch of welcome high, there are tears in her eyes as she sees how low this Administration has stooped in its callousness toward mothers and children escaping war-torn Syria."

Sen. Dick Durbin from Illinois said: "History will judge where Americas leaders stood today. Faced with the humanitarian crisis of our time, the United States cannot turn its back on children fleeing persecution, genocide, and terror."

Noting the significance of the timing of Trump's executive order, which came down on International Holocaust Remembrance Day  Durbin added: "During the Holocaust we failed to fulfill to our duty to humanity. We cannot allow mindless fear to lead us into another regretful chapter in our history."

A key part of the executive order would specifically ban Syrian refugees from resettling in the US. Syria has been embroiled in a brutal civil war since 2011, prompting a refugee crisis with effects that have been felt throughout Europe.

The Trump administration's measures have been criticized as antithetical to America's founding principles. Others have suggested the executive order's rules  one of which says only refugees who support the US Constitution may be allowed into the country  are impossible to enforce.

Protests began earlier this week after it was announced Trump would move forward with the executive order.

Read Sen. Dick Durbins full statement here:

And heres Nancy Pelosis statement:
The coffee chain's stores are being inundated with mobile orders, and that's drastically slowing down service and alienating customers. Same-store transactions, a measure of customer traffic, dropped 2% in the most recent quarter, according to the company.

Starbucks' shares fell more than 4% on Friday morning.

Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz went on CNBC on Friday to address the problem.

"It will be fine," he said, repeatedly asserting that the company would solve the issue. "I'm not really worried. I know that the market has overreacted."

When asked for specific solutions, such as whether he would rearrange the stores or hire more people to handle the bottleneck of orders, he demurred and reiterated that the company would find a fix.

"We are facing this congestion problem and the anxiety of the customer," he said. "It is a problem that we will solve. It won't take us that long. We have been on it now for 30 days, and in the quarters that follow we will get back to the experience that you have come to expect."

In some ways, it's a good problem to have, as it highlights the growing popularity of Starbucks' mobile order-and-pay program. But the negative effect on service has dragged down customer traffic, and that could become a permanent issue if Starbucks doesn't find a fast fix.

Starbucks is also facing pressure from declining traffic at shopping malls and restaurants as customer shopping habits change and people increasingly choose to eat at home.

But Schultz insisted that Starbucks is immune to that industrywide trend because the coffee chain provides an emotional experience for consumers, he said.

"Unlike a department store, unlike the apparel business, Starbucks is not going to be affected by the downturn in traffic, which will be significant and have an adverse effect on the overall retail and restaurant sector," he said.
Within days, reports suggested the EPA was told to scrub its scrub its climate change section. (Doug Ericksen, a spokesman for the team now in charge, claimed theyre scrubbing it up a bit, putting a little freshener on it, and getting it back up to the public.) The EPA page that used to have answers to frequently asked questions about climate change, however, is gone.

For those wondering what the pages used to say, the Internet Archive has debuted a new browser extension that allows you to scroll back in time through different versions of a single page, and save current versions of a page for others to see in the future.

The extension, which is available for Google Chrome users or as an add-on for Firefox users, essentially gives users access to the Internet Archives Wayback Machine with one click. The Machine has been around for 15 years (and the non-profit Archive for 20), and previously let anyone who visited the Internet Archive website view past versions of millions of websites by looking up a key word or URL. With the browser extension, you can automatically scroll through all the previously captured versions of the specific site you happen to be visiting.

Mark Graham, the director of the Wayback Machine at the Internet Archive, tells Business Insider that the extension debuted a couple of weeks before Trump took office, and the group was planning to release it no matter what. But he admits the tool has gained new attention and importance because of Trumps changes to government webpages.

It really just highlights the ephemerality of the web, Graham says, noting that disappearing content has always been a risk of the cultural shift away from printed material  which is why the Internet Archive started working to save webpages two decades ago. This is getting a lot of attention right now because were seeing it up close and personal, he says.

The Chrome extension has three simple buttons. The first, save page, allows you to save the site youre on and put it into the Internet Archives enormous database, so that future visitors can look back to see what the page looked like at the moment you captured it. (The pages are saved with working links.)

The recent version button takes you to the last version the Wayback Machine has in its archive, and the first version button takes you to the earliest version the archive has saved. Once you click either of the second two options, a bar appears on the top of the browser window, giving you the option to scroll back through all the captured versions of the page that exist.

Take the White House's climate change page.

When you visit the site now, this is what it looks like:

The Internet Archives browser extension can detect that the pages content is not available, and will automatically ask if youd like to see a recent version of that site instead.

The most recent archived version of the site looks like this, since it was last saved on January 20, after Trump's inauguration:

But if you scroll back, youll see the website looked like this just before the transition:

By clicking on the number of captures in the top bar, you can even see a calendar of all the times that site was saved, and select the version youd like to see (many are identical, since many pages aren't updated daily).

After Trumps election, many scientists started worrying about what would happen to government webpages and the reports and data sets they contain, which lots of researchers rely on for their work. A group called the Environmental Data and Governance Initiative (EDGI) started downloading data and saving webpages to the Internet Archive, an effort that proved prescient.

It certainly was alarming but we do feel like weve done enough of the grunt work, says Andrew Bergman, a PhD student at Harvard and member of EDGIs steering committee. We feel quite good that within those EPA sites we have all the reports downloaded, and were tracking those websites through a few different means.

But Bergman says the work isn't over, and its likely pages have been missed, especially on sites the group deemed less at risk of immediate changes. With the new Wayback Machine extension, anybody can join the effort to preserve government websites. Mark Graham says thousands of new people have been downloading and using the extension every day.
Garba said that the project facilitators had earlier assisted the IDPs in drawing up a Community Action plan towards the implementation of the programme.

He said that the project would supply the IDPs with hybrid seeds, fertilizer, water pumps and other farm inputs, to enable them to execute the programme.

Garba said the project would also assist the beneficiaries with rural infrastructure such as construction of culverts, access roads, water facilities and other farm implements.

He said that IDPs who were interested in fishery, poultry farming, as well as rearing of ruminants, such goat and sheep, would also be assisted by the project.

The project coordinator said that these supports will enable the IDPs to return to farming activities, which will make them to be able to return to their businesses.

He said that the project had earlier carried out sensitization visits to the IDPs, where appraisal exercises, need assessments and baseline exercises, to know the current conditions of the IDPs before the commencement of the programme.
The elder-statesman called on the Federal Government to take the leading role in the economy.

Musa also said The President is just like his predecessor. I ask you what is the remarkable difference between him and his predecessor. No fundamental difference.

They all believe in the system based on self interest first, while public interest comes after their own interest is served. He is not radical enough to deal with the situation in Nigeria.

At the moment, the choice of the President and the Senate President is that the leading role of the economy is that of the Private sector which is wrong. As long as we continue with this, we will get no where.

The attitude of government conceding its leading role in economy to the private sector as well as folding its arm while watching the private sector determine what goes on, will also lead the country to nowhere.

The President ought to immediately embark on social reconstruction of Nigeria, taking the leading role in the economy and bring about a system that places public interest first above every other interest.

Let us decide first what is the root cause of the problem of the economy.

The root cause is the leading role of the private sector as opposed to the leading role of the state in the economy to ensure, peace, equality, justice, dignity of the human person and the progressive development of the country.

Unless the leading role of the state is right, we cannot get things right.

With our experience over the years, the only viable solution to the state of the nation is socialist reconstruction of Nigeria starting with the leading role of the state in the economy.
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According to Premium Times, the Chairman of the NGF, Kashim Shettima, recently told newsmen that those involved in clashes across the country are herdsmen from Mali and Senegal.

Reports say Shettima, who is also the Borno Governor, said Fulani herdsmen entering the country to rear cattle will be registered by officials.

The Borno Governor also said We also mapped out new strategies that would be used by the local Fulani herdsmen to rear their cattle without having to move across the country.

Speaking on the issue, the spokesman of ARG, Kunle Famoriyo said ARG also notes that herdsmen currently constitute a huge threat, not only to lives, but also to food security in Southwest.

Our people, who are largely smallholding farmers, cannot work at their full capacity, living at the mercy of cows and conniving policemen.

This has aggravated the sweeping poverty in Nigeria and has displaced many of our people. Nigerias socioeconomic indices is clear that farmers, not herdsmen, should get higher priority from government, being a higher employer of labour, higher contributor to tax, FOREX earning and GDP.

ARG is therefore gravely concerned that state governors who swore to protect Nigerias constitution are the ones promoting alien interest.

Or what logic is there in opening a register for agents of external aggression? It is shameful that the NGF could not even pretend and hide its readiness to sacrifice the rest of Nigeria for Fulani interest in its veiled reference to national integration and cohesion as the solution to herdsmen menace.

The group also slammed the Kaduna state Governor, Nasir El-Rufai for saying that the Fulani herdsmen responsible for the clashes, should be accepted.

According to reports, El-Rufai, in an Aljazeera TV interview, said since Nigeria is a signatory to the ECOWAS treaty on trans-humane pastoralist protocol the herdsmen have to be accommodated.
This time, Garba Shehu, the media spokesman to Buhari has debunked claims that the President let the SGF off the hook.

According to Daily Post, Shehu said Buhari only acted based on the report of the Senate that indicted Lawal.

He said the President, in a letter asked the Senate to give the SGF a fair hearing with respect to the allegations levelled against him.

Reports say Lawal had complained to Buhari that the Senate did not give him and his company a fair hearing.

According to Shehu, His(Buharis) letter to the senate did not dwell on whether the SGF was guilty or not guilty.

What President Buhari has done is simply to act in a response to a report by the SGF, Babachir David Lawal, who insisted that he and the companies cited were not given a fair hearing by the National Assembly.

President Buharis communication to Nigerias lawmakers was simply this: If the SGF was not given a fair hearing, can you now give him one?
According to Vanguard, the militant group accused NDDC officials of coercing and collection 10% kick-back from contractors.

The NDRC also slammed the NDDC Chairman, Senator Ndoma Egba for calling them criminals.

The group, in a statement signed by its spokesman, W O I Izon-Ebi, said In seven days time, Victor Ndoma Egba, and his NDDC board will know that we are professionals that do not only know how to bomb pipelines for calling us criminals. The sudden call of the chairman of the NDDC, Victor Ndoma Ebga, is hypocritical because this present NDDC board chaired by Victor Ndoma Egba is visionless. Urging aggrieved militants to stop bombing of pipe line is coming too late.

They also gave the Federal Government a list of their demands which they want met with immediate effect.

According to NDRC, We want The Federal Government to allow the people of Niger Delta region to choose their leaders and control their God -given resources.

We want the appointment of directors of all Federal Government agencies and parastatals in the Niger Delta to be apolitical, we want the federal government to allow the people of the Niger Delta to recommend the best brains and technocrats to occupy the various offices if truly they are sincere and committed to the well-being, peace and development of the Niger Delta;

We want the Ministry of Niger Delta to be probed from the tenure of former minister, Elder Godsday Orubebe to date and the East-West Road in particular; We want also the NDDC to be probed from the time of Dan Abia to the present Board;

We want the present board of the NDDC to be sacked immediately because they lack vision and focus;

We want the EFCC to swing into action to probe the present NDDC board because with the facts available to us, which we would publish next, it will be shameful if this present administration that rode to power with the slogan of fighting corruption refuses to hear our plea. We, on our own, will make that place ungovernable for them because NDDC was created by the sacrifices and blood of the Niger Delta people. We would not sit and watch some group of unpatriotic Niger Deltans that lack vision of the NDDC to continue to enrich themselves to the detriment of the Niger Delta.

They also threatened to attack government parastatals saddled with the responsibility of developing the Niger Delta.

The group said We, the Niger Delta Revolutionary Crusaders, NDRC, want to urge him (Ndoma Egba) to match his word with action because we are not going to bomb pipelines again, but focus our strength on all the federal agencies in the Niger Delta region that are saddled with the responsibility of developing and empowering the Niger Deltans, such as NDDC, Niger Delta Ministry and the Niger Delta Basin Development Authority.

ALSO READ:US urges FG to dialogue with Niger Delta Avengers

Adding that Last year, Ndoma Egba as the chairman of NDDC, allowed his director of finance to make a shameful statement that the present NDDC board is there to serve the APC, not the Niger Delta region. The director said we are to serve the APC that gave us the mandate, not everybody in the Niger Delta, so if you are coming to the NDDC, bear it in mind that is the turn of APC, it is for APC members alone. Our concern is this: After collecting allocation from the federal government to develop the Niger Delta and also counterpart funding from all oil multinationals in the Niger Delta region, they end up embezzling the funds with nothing to show for it in the Niger Delta.
He said that the operation that was taking place within the Eastern Naval Command (ENC) and the Central Naval Command (CNC) within the regions maritime domain had been successful.

The idea of introducing the ORS 1 and 2  one in the ENC and another in the CNC- is to continue to keep pressure on the criminal elements within the maritime environment.

Through this operation, the Nigerian Navy will be able to contain the nefarious activities of criminals in the area adequately, Garba said.

He said apart from few isolated cases, the Navy and other sister security organisations had successfully minimised their criminal activities of maritime piracy.

Sea piracy has never been rampant. I will say we are doing our best to ensure that we keep the waterways safe for legitimate activities to take place, he stated.

Garba, who declared the medical exercise open, said the programme was part of the commands corporate social responsibility to host communities, adding that the exercise was the ninth edition.

He said the focus of the programme had been shifted to riverside communities and non-motorable villages who did not have access to good medical services.

He called on the rural dwellers to reciprocate the Navys gesture by providing useful information that could help security operatives to crimes, within maritime domains.

During the medical exercise, residents were tested and treated for malaria fever, typhoid fever, diabetes, high blood pressure and hepatitis, among others.

Many children were also de-wormed and immunised against polio and other ailments during the exercise.

An indigene of the community and former Acting Governor of Bayelsa, Mr Nestor Binabo, who attended the exercise, commended the Navy for its gesture.

He said that the free medical outreach was the first of its kind in the community.

The naval establishment has been here in Bayelsa for sometime but the present of the command is fantastic.

The exercise tells me that the command has the people of Bayelsa at heart. You know, a healthy man is a wealthy man.

Today you can see the number of persons that have come out to get medical examinations and treatments.

It is no mean feat. We are grateful to the Nigerian Navy for this benevolence, he said.
This was revealed by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina.

The picture, which was purportedly taken at the President's current location of his 10-day vacation, is coming after growing concern of the President's health by the public.

Adesina said: The growing tension about President Buharis health is purely unnecessary. The president is just simply fine. I speak with people around him at regular interval.

For his age, President Buhari is fit and capable of paddling the affairs of the country.

He turned 74 last December and if you look at his engagement in the last two months, you will agree with me that its been very engaging. Remember his role in the Gambia issue.

My candid advise for those peddling the rumour is to change their mind and remain positive about this administration.

ALSO READ: Buhari receives Gov Amosun in UK
The revered monarch, who described the practice as non-Islamic as non-Islamic, said the Mosque is a holy place.

According to Punch, he said this while inaugurating an ultra-modern mosque at the Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger State on Friday, January 28, 2017.

Sanusi said Muslim clerics, and indeed all Muslims, should preach peace among the adherents and work to achieve peace with members of other religions.

The Federal University of Technology, Minna inaugurated the Mosque as part of the celebrations marking its 26th convocation ceremony and 35th year anniversary.
In case you missed the events of the day, Pulse Movies has put together five things that happened yesterday on the reality show.

Check them out below;

1. Kemen and Uriel started the day with a heart to heart talk. While Uriel apologized for not saving Kemen, the later opened up about his own struggles and said he wasn't upset she didn't save him.

He revealed he 'fancied' her.

2. Miyonse who had earlier admitted that he has a thing for older women, got flirty withTboss. From cooking her special meals, to foot massages, to showering her with compliments daily, Miyonse took it to a new level on Day 5 and tried to kiss Tboss.

ALSO READ: undefined

3. Biggie announced that the housemates' cooking privileges had been restored. He also gifted the housemates with special gifts from their official sponsor Payporte.

The housemates were also given the privilege to decorate the party room to their own taste. The theme for the night is 'A Nigerian Hip Hop Party.'

4. Efe won the six staged obstacle course task and his prize was to spend the night in Biggies Luxury suite with a Housemate of his choice.

Efe picked Bisola as his choice for the night.

ALSO READ: undefined

5. Biggie announced that the Housemates will get to throw a party as a reward for winning their wager. The theme for this celebration is Nigerian Hip-Hop and a celebrity Dj will be in attendance today, Saturday, January 28, 2017.
The party also said Governor Bello is financially reckless, adding that he runs a non-inclusive government.

According to Daily Post, they also gave Governor Bello four weeks to pay all the entitlements of civil servants and pensioners in the state.

The leadership of the APC in Kogi, speaking in Abuja, also threatened to carry out a peaceful revolution in all the Local Government Areas if the Governor does not heed to their demand.

Those at the meeting were Senator Dino Melaye, some former Senators, serving and former members of the House of Representatives and elders of the APC.

Also, the Kogi APC Chairman, Chief Haddy A. Ametuo and 25 state executive members were also present at the press briefing.

The group, in a statement, said The responsibility of any responsive leader is to be transparent, accountable and justifiable in its financial conducts.

Governor Yahaya in defiant to this standard rule of good governance has never deemed it necessary to render public public account since his assumption of office. All the other Governors that just spent one year in office accounted for their stewardship nationwide.

This has led to gross public financial failure and reckless spending by the government, as we have it on record that Governor Bello has wasted and lavished over N230bn in one year.

This represents thirteen months Federal Allocations to the state; N10bn infrastructural development funds, N30bn bailout fund, over N11bn Paris Club excess refund. We also have the N16bn refunded for federal government roads built by the past administration of Alh. Ibrahim Idris, N700m ecological fund.

All these above exclude an average of N600m internally generated revenue monthly.

ALSO READ:Dino Melaye says Governor Yahaya Bello is not an APC member

Adding that The political leaders of Kogi State and the APC stakeholders have resolved unequivocally to give 4 weeks ultimatum to Governor Yahaya Bello, to reconcile the ongoing staff audit in the state with the realities on ground, pay our civil servants, the pensioners and others.
The News Agency of Nigeria [NAN] reports that the recovered computers were handed over to the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Muhammad Tanko by the state Commissioner of Police, Mr Agyole Abeh.

The university had on Dec. 21, 2016 reported to the police the theft of its 55 computers from the institutions e-library.

The police subsequently paraded the five suspects on Jan. 11, who were found in possession of the 35 recovered computers.

The Commissioner assured that the remaining 20 computers would also be recovered and handed back to the university.

We will recover the remaining 20 unit of the desktop; the suspects are giving us good information and will recover the remaining.

Abeh urged the general public to give the police more support to rid the state of criminals.

In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor commended the police for the recovering the computers, saying that some of the computers were donated to the university.
Fresh fighting has left 20 rebels and seven pro-government fighters dead over the past 24 hours, with dozens more wounded, a hospital official said.

"The city centre is still in the hands of the Huthis, while the loyalist forces have taken up positions on three axes around the city and cut off the rebels' supply route between Mokha and Taez" further east, a military official said.

He said the rebels had "no choice" but to leave Mokha and head towards the rebel stronghold of Hodeida further north on the Red Sea coast.

The forces loyal to President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi are supported by Saudi-led coalition aircraft that have attacked a military camp and a rebel convoy in the past 24 hours, the military official said.

Nearly 230 rebel and loyalist fighters have been killed since Hadi's forces launched a vast offensive on January 7 to drive the Huthis from Yemen's southwestern coast.

Pro-government forces have succeeded in recapturing the Dhubab district north of the Bab al-Mandab strait, a key maritime route connecting the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean.

Loyalist forces said Monday they had also captured the port in Mokha, but rebels are still holed up inside the city.

Aided by troops loyal to former president Ali Abdullah Saleh, the Huthis overran the capital Sanaa in September 2014 and advanced on other regions of the impoverished Arabian Peninsula nation.

The World Health Organization says more than 7,400 people have been killed since the coalition launched its intervention in support of Hadi in March 2015.
Several dozen pro-Kiev former volunteer fighters as well as members of parliament blocked the main railway into the rebel-controlled part of the Lugansk region, Bogdan Lozytsky said.

"This is a protest with no time limit," Lozytsky said by telephone from the protest site. "We are stopping the flow of smuggled coal and other goods between Ukraine and the occupied territories."

The protesters also plan to block roads in the next few days, Lozytsky said.

Since separatist rebels sparked a conflict with government forces in 2014 in the coal-mining Donbass region bordering Russia, nearly 10,000 have lost their lives on both sides.

An "indefinite" ceasefire declared in late December has failed to entirely stop the violence.

Ukraine in 2015 banned almost all trade with the rebel-controlled areas, prompting a boom in smuggling. The government only made it legal to buy coal from the separatist regions.

The pro-Kiev governor of the Lugansk region, Yuriy Garbuz, warned the action "threatens the energy security of the country," in the height of winter.
"For those who don't have our backs: we're taking names," Haley told reporters at she arrived at UN headquarters for her first meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

"We will make points to respond to that accordingly."

"Our goal with the administration is to show value at the UN, and the way that we will show value is to show our strength, show our voice, have the backs of our allies and make sure that our allies have our back as well," she said.

Their first meeting is expected to be clouded by reports of a draft executive order being prepared at the White House that could deprive the United Nations of billions of dollars in US financial support.

The United States is by far the UN's biggest financial contributor, providing 22 percent of its operating budget and funding 28 percent of peacekeeping missions, which currently cost $7.8 billion annually.

The 45-year-old daughter of Indian immigrants said she was ready to push for an overhaul of the United Nations and made clear there would be cuts.

"This is a time of strength. This is a time of action. This is a time of getting things done," Haley said.

"Everything that is working, we are going to make it better. Everything that is not working we are going to try and fix. Everything that seems to be obsolete and not necessary, we're going to do away with," she said.

A change at the UN

In his pledge to pursue an "America First" foreign policy, Trump has dismissed the United Nations as "just a club for people to get together and have a good time."

Relations with Trump became tense after the Security Council adopted a resolution demanding Israel end settlement construction.

The former US administration declined to use its veto to block the measure, prompting Trump to promise that "things will be different" at the United Nations under his administration.

Tough-talking Haley echoed that stance.

"You are going to see a change in the way we do business. It's no longer about working harder but working smarter," she said.

The ambassador then held a brief 20-minute meeting with Guterres who was "delighted to meet her," said UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric.

"It was an introductory meeting and the start of engagement with the new US administration," he said.

Guterres, who took over from Ban Ki-moon on January 1, is also pushing for changes at the United Nations to improve its ability to respond to crises.

UN officials are eager to engage with the new US envoy on the way forward on a range of issues from key appointments to top UN posts to faltering peace efforts in Syria, Yemen and South Sudan.

Haley's appointment was welcomed by many diplomats who notably praised her for her strong stance against racism as South Carolina governor, when she ordered that the Confederate flag be pulled down from the state capitol.
Jammeh finally quit as president and went into exile on Saturday following intense lobbying by international powers, ending more than a month of crisis that began when he rejected the result of the December 1 election.

Tibou Kamara, a former government minister from Guinea, went early in the crisis to convince Jammeh to leave after 22 years in power in favour of Adama Barrow, who won the ballot.

He was joined last week by Mauritania's President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz and Guinea's President Alpha Conde, to win over Jammeh before a "last chance saloon" deadline.

"It was not easy, because against the determination of the international community, there was a fierce resolve to defend what he saw as law, truth and justice, but especially the independence and sovereignty of his country," Kamara said in an interview with AFP.

Kamara had approval to negotiate from Jammeh's wife, whose younger sister is married to a former president of Guinea. Both women have Guinean fathers.

"We appealed to his faith," Kamara said, adding that Jammeh himself often said that "everything that happens to a man is God's will. This carried a lot of weight."

Jammeh had long cultivated the image of a devout Muslim, often appearing with prayer beads in hand, and starting his speeches with passages from the Koran.

Muslim and patriot

During a day of talks led by the Mauritanian and Guinean leaders -- interrupted by a break for Friday prayers -- negotiators also reminded Jammeh of his potential place in history.

"Everybody told him that it wasn't necessary to drag his country into war," Kamara said, especially as Jammeh prides himself on having come to power without spilling any blood.

The former Gambia president had also made a point of keeping his country out of the many conflicts that have ravaged West Africa.

Negotiators urged Jammeh to "secure" this legacy by agreeing to "leave with dignity", Kamara said.

The arguments worked: Jammeh cited them specifically during his televised speech in the early hours of January 21, when he agreed to stand down.

"As a Muslim and a patriot, I do not want a single drop of blood to be shed," he said.

"My decision today was not dictated by anything else than the supreme interest of you, the Gambian people, and our dear country."

For Kamara, the tense but ultimately successful talks were a victory for Gambians and the region as a whole, under the umbrella of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) regional bloc.

But he also warned against "score-settling" or "witch hunts" against Jammeh's associates, and diplomats have called on Barrow's government to guarantee Jammeh's civil rights, including his eventual return after leaving the country for Equatorial Guinea.
Turning the ship before it hits the iceberg
Nuland had her last day at the State Department on Wednesday; her name was just one among a long list of senior Obama-era diplomats who resigned from their posts this week, many of them 'expressing concerns' about serving in the Trump administration's State Department, according to the New York Times

In Russia and Eastern Europe, Nuland will best be remembered for her role in the political crisis which rocked Ukraine beginning in late 2013, and culminated in the US and EU-backed Euromaidan coup d'etat in February 2014.

It was in a leaked telephone conversation with US Ambassador to Ukraine Geoffrey Pyatt from February 4, 2014 where Nuland made perhaps the most memorable remark of her diplomatic career, saying "F*ck the EU," referring to Brussels' hesitation to overthrowing the elected government in Kiev outright.

But even though the three little words were what was best remembered from the leaked conversation, the more important context which has since been forgotten was Nuland and Pyatt's very casual discussion about who they wanted to take the reins in the new government in Kiev (note that the conversation took place several weeks before President Viktor Yanukovych's ouster on February 22, 2014).

Nuland and Pyatt chose former boxer Vitaly Klitschko, who would go on to become mayor of Kiev, and Arseniy Yatsenyuk, who was affectionatel y disparagingly referred to as 'Yats', who soon became Prime Minister. "Yats is the guy" Nuland quipped commanded.

The two US officials also talked up the benefits of having Yatsenyuk and Klitschko ally with Oleh Tyahnybok, the ultranationalist Svoboda Party leader openly associated with Ukrainian Neo-Nazi groups. Far right groups played a key role in the success of the Maidan coup, duking it out with riot police and taking over key government buildings following President Yanukovych's ouster.

In late 2014, Nuland admitted that the US had spent a total of $5 billion for 'democracy promotion' efforts in Ukraine since 1991, something Russian officials speculated knew very well was a code term for regime change efforts. The assistant secretary of state brushed off the allegations, telling CNN that "that money has been spent on supporting the aspirations of the Ukrainian people to have a strong, democratic government." She even denied that the money had been spent supporting the Maidan protests, calling them and the coup that followed a "spontaneous movement."
On Monday, things looked pretty bleak for a longtime local agency in danger of closing its doors.

On Monday, things looked pretty bleak for a longtime local agency in danger of closing its doors.

Today, a glimmer of hope for the Rural Nevada Development Corporation (RNDC) courtesy of the Pahrump town board.

Members on Tuesday voted to grant $10,000 in financial assistance  with a few strings attached.

The agency must also have the same amount of financial assistance from the Board of County Commissioners and another county entity, the Nye County Regional Economic Development Authority (NCREDA).

The vote passed by a slim margin.

RNDC provides various services for individuals looking to start a new business or expand an existing business.

Following the meeting, RNDC representative Allan Parker assessed the boards decision.

I guess I was a little bit surprised because of how the conversation went early on during the presentation. I wasnt particularly comfortable with the outcome, but by the time the final decision came about I was pleasantly surprised, he said.

The conversation Parker was referring to referenced the towns budget.

Board member Dr. Tom Waters reminded all that funding a $10,000 request from a local nonprofit agency was not budgeted last year.

He advised the board to proceed with caution on the agenda item.

Thats exactly what we have to look at because this would be an unfunded budget request. Its not something that we have, its something that we have to find. I know we already have our funds allocated because we already completed our budget process and thats my big concern. he said.

Waters furthered his argument by indicating that all staff members in the past few years have made personal sacrifices in terms of salary.

Not one staff member has requested a raise during the economic downturn that began in early 2008.

The other concern that I have is the fact that we have some people that have been very loyal to us and they are town employees. We have not given them a raise in four years because of a lack of funds, he reminded the board.

Parker, meanwhile, was prepared to offer a concise rebuttal to Waters assertion by suggesting that the monies need not come from the towns general fund account.

I think the variable that might exist here is and I dont know your books, but I do know that room tax money can vary depending on occupancy rates and what have you, and that sometimes room tax money can flow in at higher levels at other times, he said.

Additionally, Parker noted that room tax revenues are commonly used for town projects involving economic development.

Following further discussion, the board agreed 3-2 to grant funding to RNDC with the stipulation that both county entities contribute $10,000.

Members Amy Riches and Dr. Tom Waters provided the nay votes.

Parker will take his case in front of the commissioners next Tuesday.

He is expected to approach NCREDA officials with his request at a later date.
CHRIS HERO'S FINAL INDEPENDENT APPEARANCE & MORE: EVOLVE 77 THIS AFTERNOON IN TEXAS

EVOLVE will present EVOLVE 77 this afternoon in San Antonio, Texas at 2 PM Central, featuring the final appearance of Chris Hero on the independents before he heads back to WWE full-time. The complete lineup features:

*EVOLVE champion Timothy Thatcher with Stokely Hathaway vs. Jeff Cobb

*Chris Hero's Final Match: Chris Hero vs. Zack Sabre Jr.

*No DQ Match: Matt Riddle vs. DUSTIN

*EVOLVE Tag Team Champion Fred Yehi vs. ACH

*EVOLVE Tag Team Champion Tracy Williams vs. Laredo Kid

*Ethan Page with The Gatekeepers, Darby Allin, Jason Kincaid, Peter Kaasa, Chris Dickinson, Jaka plus more to be announced

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Salutes all nonprofit organizations that help support, grow, anchor and promote the Muscatine area. VETERANS APPRECIATION MEAL Featuring Vietnam Veterans February 26, 2017 11:30-1:30 American Legion Post 27 110 South Houser Street, Muscatine Call 563-262-4162 to RSVP by February 15th Veterans and immediate family are invited to a free meal catered by A Guy and A Grill. Vietnam Veterans will be presented with a lapel pin in recognition of their service. Sponsored by Muscatine and Louisa County Veterans Affairs Runway Red Benefit Please join host Denise Hnytka (WQAD) and Gildas Club Muscatine for a style show with desserts, wine and raffle drawings. Sunday, February 12, 2017 2;00-4:00 p.m. Rendezvous - 3127 Lucas St., Muscatine Tickets available at: CBI Bank & Trust, Community Bank & Trust, First National Bank, HallTree Boutique or text RUNWAY to 41444 Heres a chance to show off our community: Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs seeks videos of #NotToBrag campaign. Post a photo, video or a note online with the campaign hashtag #NotToBrag Trivia Night Benefiting Flickinger Learning Center Saturday February 25th @ The Rendezvous, 3127 Lucas St. Doors open @ 5:30pm/Trivia starts @ 6pm. $10 per person - 6-8 players per team Contact Trista @ 563-299-9122 TheThe Muscatine Journal history of supporting this community andyears, local non-profits. annually to a Quad-City Timeshas hasover beena a175-year leader and advocate for the community for 160 including a We richinvest history of number of localnonprofits. organizations. addition, employees also donate to numerous organizations aimedand at supporting the supporting We In invest moreour than $250,000 each yeartheir in a time number of Quad-City organizations our community wedonate proudlytheir serve, such Muscatine and Louisa County Veterans Affairs. employees time to as numerous organizations. Quad-City Times is proud to offer to charitable nonprofit organizations TheThe Muscatine Journal is proud to offer this this pagepage to charitable non-profit organizations 501(c)(3) for promoting events or services. 501(c)(3) for promoting events or services. ForFor moremore information on this page, contact Jaime at 563.262.0552 Jaime.Limoges@MuscatineJournal.com information on this page, contact Jennifer oratemail 563.383.2296 or email spotlight@qctimes.com
There's been no resting for Mattress Firm, which has opened a new store in Moline near 7th Street and John Deere Expressway.

The newly constructed store at 711 41st Ave. Drive. is the third Quad-City store in the 18-store franchisee owned by Clay Boese, Dave Eisenbraun, company founder Harry Robert and his brother, Charlie Robert, according to Nick Boese, the company's area manager.

"We have loved this spot so much,'' Nick Boese said of the store, tucked in next to Fazoli's in the Target/Kohl's shopping complex. "It's kind of a beacon as you drive by."

The Moline Mattress Firm joins two stores in Davenport. Asked if more stores are planned, he said "We're always looking to expand and build on our company."

Boese said Mattress Firm is unique in that it is solely in the mattress business. "We have all the best beds at all the lowest prices. We're like a Costco of Sam's Club for mattresses."

Company-wide, Mattress Firm has more than 3,500 company-operated and franchised stores across 49 states. Founded in 1986, the Houston company was acquired in September by Steinhoff International and now operates as a subsidiary of Steinhoff.

Boese said the store plans to get more involved in the Quad-City community as it has in other markets, including Des Moines, where it recently donated mattresses to a woman's shelter and a boy's home.

Group O founder aids Moline school

Group O founder and chairman Robert Ontiveros and his wife, Blenda, long known for their generosity in Moline's Floreciente neighborhood, have donated funding for 30 Chrome Notebooks for Lincoln-Irving Elementary School.

The couple made the donation to the Moline Public Schools Foundation, which in turn purchased the technology at cost thanks to the generosity of Advanced Business Systems, Moline.

"I believe that education is the foundation of a strong community and ensures that our youth are prepared for the future," said Bob Ontiveros. "It is important that our schools have the most up-to-date technology that offers innovative and creative educational experiences."

Foundation executive director Jayne O'Brien said such partnerships "truly define community." "Providing technology to our students ensures that they are future-ready," she said.

Touting the foundation's ability to leverage resources, Bob Ontiveros challenged other community leaders "to join me in making a powerful impact on the quality of education we provide."

John Deere Pavilion undergoes work

If the outdoor display area at the John Deere Pavilion in Moline looks a little crowded with equipment and the inside looks a little empty, that's because the popular tourist spot is closed for some necessary maintenance.

The pavilion shut down temporarily beginning Jan. 20 and will reopen to the public at 9 a.m. Monday, Feb. 6.

Pavilion manager Brigitte Tapscott said the work includes stripping and polishing the layers and layers of wax on the floor and changing out the spot lighting. "It takes a lot of choreography to get this maintenance done."

The closing does not include the John Deere Store, located next door, which remains open. It has reduced hours during the closing: noon to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday; and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday.

Other area John Deere attractions also remain open, including the display floor at John Deere World Headquarters in Moline, the Deere-Wiman House and Butterworth Center in Moline (for a tour call 309-743-2700) and factory tours at John Deere Harvester in East Moline and John Deere Seeding Group in Moline. Tours must be scheduled in advance by calling 800-765-9588.
On paper, the house on Adams Street marked No. 103 for Habitat for Humanity Quad-Cities.

But to Koffi Attisso, his wife, Cece, and their two daughters, it was a first.

Its a home of our own, Attisso, a native of Togo, said during the house dedication Saturday. I never dreamed of that happening.

The family worked hard to make it happen.

For the past year, Attisso and other volunteers with Habitat for Humanity spent almost every weekend renovating the house.

Attisso, who works full time at the Center for Alcohol & Drug Services Inc., and his family also volunteered more than 360 hours to qualify for a no-interest loan to purchase the home from Habitat. The price tag is around $80,000 to 85,000. House No. 103 was sponsored by the Scott County Housing Council, Wells Fargo Bank and Scott County Regional Authority.

At first, I said, I cant do all that,'" Attisso said. And then we kept working and waiting."

On Saturday, when organization officials, including Attisso's mentor Pam Crowe, handed over the keys to Attisso, the wait was over.

Its an empowering thing for them, Crowe said. Its some place to plant their roots and make memories, instead of having a temporary place. They know theyll be here for years to come.

Kristi Crafton, Habit for Humanity's executive director, said house dedications are some of her favorite days.

When they got here, they simply couldnt afford a house, she said. We dont give our homes away, and I dont think a lot of people realize that. Its an act of labor and love.

Attisso moved to Iowa in 2009 to chase dreams of higher education. He later graduated from Western Illinois University.

They came here from Togo in search of a better life, Crafton said. They are bright and hard working, and they certainly are a deserving family.

Attisso said he is happy his daughters Leah and Ablavi will have their own rooms. And hes glad theres space for more  his wife is eight months pregnant.

Its a place for my family to be together and grow, he said. Its a blessing and a gift from God.

Volunteers such as Belinda Holbrook attend about seven house dedications per year.

Its a long, sometimes challenging, process, she said. Theyre really excited when we select them, and then theres a lot of anticipating.

So, when its finally time to hand over the keys, its a big celebration."

We cry a lot, she said.

Holbrook said Habitat for Humanity is always looking for more volunteers, whether you can swing a hammer or not.

Youre not staying at home making a donation and not sure where its going, she said. I can drive around the Quad-Cities and point to the Habitat houses.

And now, that includes the house on Adams Street.

They talk about the American dream, and this is it, Holbrook said. And its a wonderful thing to see.
More than two dozen Iowa counties, including Scott and Clinton, don't honor detainer requests from federal immigration authorities, a practice that some groups say constitute the kind of "sanctuary" policies President Donald Trump pledged earlier this week to punish.

It's not clear yet just how aggressive the Trump administration will be in its crackdown on what it calls "sanctuary jurisdictions," which doesn't have a common meaning. But civil libertarians warned the new policy gives broad powers to the Justice Department and Department of Homeland Security.

"We just don't know yet how these words will be defined," said Rita Bettis, legal director for the ACLU of Iowa.

The president's order doesn't specifically mention detainer requests. However, it instructs the U.S. Attorney General to take action against any entity "which has in effect a statute, policy, or practice that prevents or hinders the enforcement of Federal law."

In addition, immigration critics have sought to label places that don't honor detainer requests sanctuaries. Some bills in Congress also have sought to punish such policies.

Quad-City-area sheriff's officials say they cooperate with the federal government, including immigration officials. They say they will share information with them, and they are willing to notify federal authorities when a person of interest is scheduled to be released. However, some have drawn the line at accepting requests from the federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement to hold prisoners without a court order.

"An ICE detainer is simply a request by a federal agency that has no legal authority," Clinton County Sheriff Rick Lincoln said.

He and other county law enforcement officials say they have been told by their legal counsel that holding people without charge, and who have served their sentences, can open them up to legal liability.

"Its been shown it is not defensible in court," Scott County Sheriff Tim Lane said.

He, as well as Lincoln, firmly reject the idea they are "sanctuary" jurisdictions.

Some critics say that sheriffs who have this policy are practicing risk management at the cost of safety and that a detainer request itself would constitute probable cause to hold somebody.

When the president's order was announced this week, however, the ACLU in Iowa sent a statement disputing his "unilateral" ability to rescind funding for places that do not grant the requests. It points to a 2014 Oregon case to back its assertion that detainer requests don't have to be granted.

Still, Trump's order appears to be having some effect in other parts of the country. On Thursday, the mayor of Miami-Dade County in Florida, with his own executive order, ordered corrections officials to honor detainer requests, a reversal from past practice.

Bettis said she has not seen any sign that any Iowa counties have altered their stance.

"We hope those law enforcement members will resist," she said and added the ACLU would support them.

County officials say they rarely have to deal with detainer requests. Still, the executive order has created questions about how far the policy will go.

There also could be legislation offered in a Republican-controlled Congress.

In 2015, Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, authored a bill that would cut off funding to local jurisdictions if they did not cooperate with federal authorities with respect to "criminal aliens and other aliens deemed to be a priority for removal."

The bill would have required cooperation with federal detainer requests.

Grassleys office said Friday that he backed separate legislation that year that would have dealt with the liability concerns, although the bill was not approved.

In a statement earlier this week, Grassley called Trumps executive order an important step toward securing the border, restoring the rule of law and strengthening public safety 

Sen. Joni Ernsts office said Friday that she, too, has previously backed legislation that removed the legal liability concerns.

Ernst, R-Iowa, said earlier this week that she is encouraged by Trumps executive order.
MUSCATINE, Iowa  A Muscatine man will face charges of sexual abuse, incest, and indecent contact with a child after allegedly performing a sex act on a child under the age of 12.

Thomas Brady Haulk, 32, has been charged with one count of second-degree sexual abuse, a class B felony, incest, a class D felony and indecent contact with a child, an aggravated misdemeanor.

Haulk allegedly performed a sexual act on a child between Sept. 1, 2012, and Aug. 1, 2013, according to the criminal complaint filed by the Clarence Police Department. The child would have been an eight- to nine-year-old at the time of the alleged incident.

He also allegedly touched an eight- to nine-year-old between July 1, 2013, and June 1, 2014, in the groin area.

Haulk waived the right to a preliminary hearing, and a bond reduction hearing was held Jan. 26, but bond was not reduced, according to online court records. A date for the trial has not been set.

Haulk is being held in the Cedar County Jail on a $75,000 cash bond for both cases.

Emily Wenger of the Muscatine Journal
One man was injured late Friday after being thrown from his vehicle during a rollover crash in LaMotte, Iowa, the Jackson County Sheriff's Department said.

The crash occurred at 11:43 p.m. in the 400 block of Union Street in LaMotte.

Jackson County Sheriff's crash investigators said 20-year-old Mackenzie Bullock was westbound on Union Street when he lost control of his vehicle. The vehicle rolled several times, and Bullock was thrown from the vehicle.

Bullock was treated at the scene and then taken to Mercy Hospital Dubuque. His condition was not available Saturday.

The crash remains under investigation by the Jackson County Sheriff's Department.
Lawmakers from Iowa and Illinois got a quick tour Friday of the Rock Island Arsenal as well as an update on it missions and its role in supporting military readiness.

Headed by Maj. Gen. Edward Daly, commanding general of the U.S. Army Sustainment Command, the tour also reinforced to the elected officials the importance of the Arsenal to the region.

The thing that struck me is how much small business feeds the Arsenal, said Rep. Tony McCombie, R-Savanna, who was elected to the Illinois House in November.

The state of Illinois has to become better at working with small businesses and helping to promote them and have them growing and doing business here, McCombie added. If we dont have the small businesses here to feed places such as the Arsenal, Illinois is going to be in trouble."

Daly said there are many good things happening at the Arsenal, and that the Army is investing in the facility. He pointed to 71 new housing units going up over the next two years. The old housing will be torn down.

The Armys made a long-term decision on the museum, so over five to seven years well be working on the Arsenal Museum, he added.

Daly said there are many more public-private partnerships than ever, and so I feel like we continue to grow in terms of our already strong bonds with our local community."

"The factory is producing many of the things that directly impact the readiness of soldiers and the equipment that soldiers need to fight in combat. The factory is doing tremendous work.

While the future cant be predicted, Daly said, The Arsenal is really a powerful organization that supports the Armys readiness objectives, and provides support to fighters at the front.

People dont know what punch we pack worldwide, Daly said. This 1.6 square-mile island not only impacts the Quad-Cities but major commands of First Army, Army Sustainment Command, Joint Munitions Command, Tank Automotive Command and Army contracting command. They in turn impact the readiness of the total Army force and joint warfighters worldwide.

The impact of the Arsenal is felt in all 50 states and in more than 30 countries, he added.

Davenport Alderman Bill Boom, 3rd Ward, said Friday's tour may have centered on the Arsenal, but it was about much more than the Arsenal. Its about political and business leaders in Illinois and Iowa cooperating to make the region better.

You understand the importance of the Arsenal to both sides of the river, Boom said. Its a regional facility, but in the past it hasnt been brought together with our elected officials. Obviously theres some gravitas with the Army here and if we can help them find missions that will keep these facilities humming, thats jobs that we have on both sides of the river. This is a step in a good direction.
President Trump's slash-and-burn actions in his first week have been dramatic, but dangerously lacking in a consensus of support, even within his own administration. The risks were evident in the collapse of a planned meeting with Mexico's president and in Trump's embrace of torture tactics rejected by his secretary of defense and CIA director.

Trump's "tweet from the hip" style produced its first real foreign rupture Thursday, when Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto canceled a planned visit to Washington. That followed Trump's tweet that he should stay away if he wasn't ready to pay for the often-proclaimed border wall.

The Twitter grenade blew up what had been an attempt to finesse the issue with a delayed Mexican financial contribution for the wall, an approach that Trump himself had only hours before supported in an interview with ABC's David Muir. Now, Trump has an avoidable Mexico crisis to deal with.

The torture issue was another self-inflicted wound. The CIA doesn't want to go back into the secret detention and waterboarding business. There's a law banning torture, for the simple reason that it "shocks the conscience" of many Americans. And some foreign intelligence services would refuse to share information with an America that used such techniques.

The weird disconnect between Trump's wrecking-ball comments and the more delicate process of governing was illustrated by the flap over a draft executive order to revive CIA's "black sites" for detention and interrogation. After the memo surfaced Wednesday in The New York Times, Trump spokesman Sean Spicer insisted that it was "not a White House document."

But then a few hours later, Trump was raging in his interview with Muir that torture "works ... absolutely" and "we have to fight fire with fire." Like so many of Trump's tweets, these comments are disruptive and destabilizing -- but mainly to his own administration. They make the job of his new CIA Director Mike Pompeo harder.

If the first week of the Trump presidency showed us anything, it's that he's more determined to overturn the established trade, economic and national-security order than even his critics feared. So far, there's more Stephen Bannon and less Reince Priebus in this White House. The costs of Trump's impulsive, thin-skinned behavior have also become clearer. He keeps proclaiming how well he's doing, but his aides have seemingly worked nonstop to put out fires ignited by their boss.

Whether Trump's tweeting and his alt-right tilt can be tempered by James Mattis at Defense and Rex Tillerson at State looks more dubious. This will worry foreign leaders who had found the Mattis and Tillerson nominations reassuring, and were prepared to believe that Trump's bark might be worse than his bite on issues that matter to global allies.

Trump's bombastic nature undermines his ability to address the problems he cares most about. Take Mexico: It doesn't want a trade war with America, and Pena Nieto has been working to resolve border-security and NAFTA-renegotiation issues. But Trump's humiliating tweet (prompted, presumably, by his fear of being challenged for willingness to compromise) backed Pena Nieto into a political corner. The outcome is contrary to both countries' interests.

Similarly, Trump's public endorsement of torture undermines his deeper effort to combat terrorism. Because of public revulsion over waterboarding, and the CIA's refusal to resume interrogation activities without clear, sustainable legal authority, it's now easier for the U.S. to kill terrorists with drones than to capture and interrogate them. The rise in such "targeted killing" may take terrorists off the battlefield, but it doesn't yield intelligence.

"The U.S. has abandoned any effort to capture, detain and interrogate terrorists," argues Rolf Mowatt-Larssen, a former CIA officer who now teaches at the Harvard Kennedy School. "Killing terrorists with drones does not produce information on terrorist plans and intentions. It makes eminent sense to emphasize recruitment and capture operations in addition to lethal drones and bombings. As the crude saying goes, 'you can't kill them all.'"

John McLaughlin, a former acting CIA director, speaks for a consensus in the agency when he says "it would be a mistake to go back in that direction," with case officers tasked with running secret interrogation sites. But the larger point is that "the issue is so politicized that you cannot have the sober policy discussion" that's needed on how to collect better intelligence through interrogation.

During his first week in office, Trump has been his own loudest cheerleader. He has also been his own worst enemy. As with any other form of self-destructive behavior, it's time for an intervention by those closest to him.
DES MOINES  Members of a union representing 600 officers, included Iowa State Patrol troopers, say they didnt reject the states request to forego a pay raise they won through collective bargaining.

Instead, the State Police Officers Council said it was the state that declined its offer to return to the bargaining table in order to find a way for the union members to assist the state in dealing with a $118 million budget shortfall over the last six months of the fiscal year.

If the state accepted the union's contract offer for the 2018 fiscal year, then SPOCs members could be in a position to consider the states proposal to forego our 1.25 percent pay increase in 2017 and assist the state in meeting their FY17 revenue shortfall, Sue Brown, the unions executive director, replied. In its initial contract request, the union sought a 3 percent across-the-board pay increase for each of the next two fiscal years.

A spokeswoman for PolicyWorks, which represents the union, said that in the past, union members have foregone salary increases in exchange for maintaining some aspects of their health insurance plans.

SPOC is currently the lowest-cost employee insurance group in the state, and contributes 20 percent toward their insurance premiums. Jessica Maldonado wrote.

The union is concerned that Gov. Terry Branstads proposal to cover all state, county, city and school employees with one health insurance plan would inevitably raise insurance premiums for SPOC members who have been thoughtful users of their insurance plan, she said.

The union consistently has had the lowest-cost family plan of all state employees and had no rate increase last year compared to an average 10 percent rate increase for all other state employee group pools, according to Maldonado.

Rather than reject the states request, the union tried to work with the state to find a solution that would help the state with its current budget needs and also provide some assurance for our state law enforcement, she said.

The Department of Administrative Services, which represents the state in contract negotiations, confirmed the unions counter-offer was not accepted.

Iowa United Professionals rejected the request, and AFSCMEs 19,000 state employees will begin voting in early February on whether to accept the states request.
South Dakota's tourism industry attracted a record 13.9 million visitors last year according to a news release.

The South Dakota Department of Tourism said Thursday that 2016 marked the seventh consecutive year of economic growth for tourism in the state.

A new study by Tourism Economics said the 13.9 million visitors represented an increase of 1.4 percent over 2015. Visitors spent $3.8 billion last year  an increase of 1.5 percent year on year  and generated more than $279 million in state and local taxes.

The study also showed that tourism supported more than 53,000 jobs in the state last year.

State Tourism Secretary James Hagen credits effective, targeted marketing, low gas prices and landmark anniversaries for the increase.
Brenda and Mel Flottmeyer of Piedmont dont always exhibit their breeding horses at the Black Hills Stock Show.

We live in the area. Its been a few years since we exhibited here, Brenda Flottmeyer said.

This year, however, they brought a 2000 bay named Smokes Little Doll, a mare with a history of foaling high quality colts, to be sold during Fridays opening day of the South Dakota Quarter Horse Association sale at Rushmore Plaza Civic Center.

Shes had really excellent colts. Theyre winning in the performance classes and halter classes. Theyre just really nice animals, Brenda Flottmeyer said.

She said the number of horse events has expanded at the stock show. They have also traveled to shows in Billings. Mont., and elsewhere in the region to market their breeding program.

And though they dont always show at the Black Hills Stock Show, having a quality show near their home is a positive for several reasons.

Rapid City and the Black Hills have a lot to offer," Flottmeyer said. "People come in from all states and Canada and get to see our area.

We get to see a lot of friends we dont normally see."

Being within a few miles of their home in Piedmont means they dont have to battle much of the iffy January weather to get to the stock show.

Flottmeyer said, Its nice to have this venue to market your animals."
Ronald Swallow, 51, of Hot Springs, was sentenced last week in U.S. District Court for robbing three Rapid City casinos at gunpoint in 2015.

He was sentenced to 10 years in prison, five years of supervised release and more than $27,000 in restitution. He was also ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Swallow robbed three casinos in Rapid City in six weeks' time by using a gun to threaten employees of the casinos to give him cash. The first was on Aug. 10 at East St. Pat Casino, followed by Jokers Casino on Aug. 14 and Uncle Sam's Casino on Sept. 21.

In early November, police issued an arrest warrant, and Swallow was caught in North Carolina. He was extradited to South Dakota to face charges.
Jenna Frasch was spreading a little Love and Sunshine on Friday at the Black Hills Stock Show.

Love and Sunshine, in this instance, was the name of a fragrance meant to overcome the musky odor emanating from one of the animals used in a rodeo clowns act next door to her booth at Rushmore Plaza Civic Center Ice Arena.

Frasch took a leisurely stroll around a stage where the critter  in this case, a ferret  would be part of an upcoming show, spritzing perfume from a small aerosol bottle as she walked.

Some ferrets dont smell the best, Frasch said, wrinkling her nose to accentuate the point.

Frasch and her business partner, Tracy Hauk, are set up in the ice arena with a wide variety of clothing and accessories under the name of Gumbo Lilies.

The Miles City, Mont., women have been friends for a long time and have worked in retail together for about 15 years, Hauk said.

A couple of years ago they decided it was time to go on their own and hit the road with an eclectic selection of womens and girls' clothing and accessories, geared for the Western and rodeo crowd tastes.

"We thought it was time to do our thing instead of working for someone else, Hauk said.

Fraschs husband put together a covered trailer to haul their merchandise. They travel primarily in Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming.

Last year was our first year at the stock show. We like South Dakota, and South Dakota seemed to like us, so we came back, Hauk said.

Frasch said much of their clothing is ordered online, but they also have steady sources for many of their accessories.

For instance, purses and moccasins come from a woman in Missouri. T-shirts come from a vendor in Texas, and scarves come from Washington.

Just a little bit of everything, said Frasch, who said their racks of merchandise will also get the Love and Sunshine treatment, as well.

Hauk said the Black Hills Stock Show is one of the few indoor shows they attend as vendors. Normally they just sell out of the trailer.

The name Gumbo Lilies comes from a delicate white and pinkish flower that manages to bloom and thrive in the inhospitable, sticky grey clay of eastern Montana.

That background also fits in with their clientele, ranchers and their families who make their living on the harsh ranges of the Northern Plains.

Theres nothing better than ranch and rodeo families, Hauk said. Those are our core customers.
The Rapid City Journal recently published a two-part series about safety challenges in downtown Rapid City. In Sunday's issue, they recalled complaints aired at a City Council meeting days before. Their reporting accurately summarized the complaints as an influx of homeless people, vandalism, shoplifting, aggressive and sometimes intoxicated panhandlers downtown.

My quote, which attempted to articulate that this issue centers on a significant presence of Native American homeless, was poorly worded and conveyed on my part. The Journal amplified my comment by using their own words to say that I "blamed much of the safety issues on Native Americans in Rapid City." I apologize for my sloppy choice of wording, and I want to clarify that I am not placing blame on anyone. I stand behind the concern that this issue, which disproportionately involves Native Americans, is but an underlying symptom of a larger problem that requires a solution.

Native Americans make up the overwhelming majority of homeless people in the Rapid City area  59.48% in 2016. The concentration of Native American homeless in the downtown area is much higher than the 59% and may be as much as 99%. The outrage at the council meeting and the resulting action by the City Council to form another task force was really aimed at addressing these symptoms, not root causes. If we track the symptoms to the root, we will find that Native Americans face significant challenges in dealing with these issues, more than anyone else. When I stated this was a Native American issue, I said so because it is an issue that is very important to the Native American community.

Am I wrong to bring these issues up? Am I wrong to observe over the past 30 years Native Americans are grossly over-represented in jails and homeless service centers? Or to observe the problem of homelessness is being left to the police rather than a strong social service network capable of effecting change? Am I wrong to observe Native Americans more than anyone else are negatively affected by these conditions? Finally, am I wrong to conclude that in addition to being a social issue, quality-of-life issue, mental-health issue and homeless issue, it is also a Native American issue?

Your opinions and reactions are being heard. I did not effectively communicate this very sensitive issue. Heres how I would word it today if I had a chance to do it again:

"Homelessness, including the factors leading to it and resulting from it adversely and disproportionately affect Native Americans more than anyone else in Rapid City. The entire issue needs and deserves attention and solutions. The Native American component needs and deserves special attention and will require overall community leadership, including Native American leadership to work together."

I understand this is a sensitive issue and the fallout has confirmed this, but at the same time it is a real issue and I do not want to attempt to use the same dialogue, same treatments and same political non-speak to help solve the issues of our community. Its time for action, but from whom?

I do not believe a politician or even a group of politicians can be effective in addressing a decades-old social and cultural issue. The community has to address these issues and those efforts can only be sustained with a reduced reliance on politicians to fix things on their own. A community issue requires a community solution. I, along with the City Council and other government leaders and entities, will support, facilitate, research and educate but the driving force towards a solution must be a unified effort to identify, strategize and implement solutions over the short, mid and long term.
BILLINGS  A Bozeman man cited for trespass on a contested Forest Service trail along the eastern base of the Crazy Mountains has pleaded not guilty in order to challenge the landowners claim in court.

Rob Gregoire used the route, marked as Trail 115/136 on Forest Service maps, to access public land while hunting elk on Nov. 23. After the day of hunting he hiked out on the same trail and found a Sweet Grass County Sheriffs deputy waiting for him.

He was very polite and gave me a ticket, said Gregoire, a Montana native who has been hunting since 1981.

The $585 criminal trespass citation was issued to Gregoire for crossing the Hailstone Ranch, owned by Lee and Barbara Langhus. Gregoire pleaded not guilty in December and an omnibus hearing is scheduled for February in Sweet Grass municipal court.

We need to stand up for whats ours, Gregoire said.

Challenging the citation has earned him moral support from some individuals as well as a few public access and hunting groups, he said. Although a different issue, in October a federal judge in Butte ruled in the Forest Services favor in its access lawsuit along the Indian Creek Trail where it crosses a private ranch in the Madison Mountains, south of Ennis.

The Crazy Mountains are an anomaly in Montana. Most mountain ranges in the state are federally owned, but the Crazies are a patchwork of private and Custer Gallatin National Forest lands intermixed. More than 8,000 acres of forest land in the Crazy Mountains is only accessible by crossing at the corners of where the parcels meet, the legality of which has yet to be tested in court.

The private inholdings are remnants of the 50,000 acres in the Crazies given to the Northern Pacific Railroad by the U.S. government in the 1860s as payment for building the transcontinental rail line. In the 1890s the railroad began selling the lands to individuals, among them were the Langhuses ancestors.

Because of the lack of public access on the eastern side of the Crazy Mountains, as of 2015 the elk herd in Hunting District 580 was more than 2,000 elk over the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks recommended levels, one of the worst areas in the state.

Gregoire said he attempted to gain access to the hunting district by requesting permission in another area, but was told hed have to pay an access fee. So he talked to the Forest Service about using Trail 115/136 to make sure he didnt trespass.

Blocking and posting no trespassing signs at the head of Trail 115/136 prompted Yellowstone District ranger Alex Sienkiewicz to organize a trail clearing and marking trip this past summer. Prior to that the agency traded letters with the Langhuses Livingston attorney, Joe Swindlehurst, who has denied there is an old forest trail at that location.

In one letter Swindlehurst countered Sienkiewiczs claim that a prescriptive easement exists saying it must be proved by clear and convincing evidence. It is not up to my clients to prove that no prescriptive easement exists across their land. If the Forest Service or the public thinks there is a prescriptive easement across the land, then it is up to them to prove it.

I guess Im the test case, Gregoire said.
Sag River, Sat phone, Jim River 1, 2 and 3, Arctic Grayling, Yukon Crossing, Atigun Pass, Dalton Highway; these arent terms that normally cast upon ones mental shores with the daily flotsam/jetsam of contemporary living in the Lower 48 states.

It began innocuously enough with Daniel asking me if I wanted to go caribou hunting. I, not being well versed in the myriad details involved with a caribou hunt above the Arctic Circle and 400 miles from the nearest commercial airport, said sure.

I landed in Fairbanks at 1:00 a.m. with a 50-pound duffle bag, a 45-pound hard-sided rifle case and two carry-ons. For a guy who can barely get the beer carried into the house from the car, I had a full platter.

Daniel arrived at 10:00 a.m. We picked up the satellite phone and the vehicle I had reserved eight months earlier; a four-door, four-wheel drive, Ford F-350 one ton diesel pickup (most rental agencies wont allow their vehicles on the Dalton Highway) with CB radio for talking to truck traffic. Next, it was on to buying hunting licenses. Airport Transportation Security Agency (TSA), in addition to not allowing 3+ ounces of tooth paste, doesnt allow compressed gases in checked baggage, so stove fuel and bear spray were also on our list. I thought about not buying bear spray (too expensive), then remembered my friend Dons sage advice: getting your arm sewed back on is expensive too. Two and one-half days later found us at the outfitters base north of the Arctic Circle.

The outfitter had three simple rules for staying alive on the tundra: dont leave your rifle, your backpack or your satellite phone. The float plane pilot also added two rules of his own in keeping life simple and increasing the probability of a safe landing. Dont activate your life vest (inflatable with a pull handle) or your bear spray in the cockpit.

The day we were scheduled to fly out of the outfitters base 40 miles south of Prudhoe Bay was their first weather day of the hunting season. Grounded, we stayed at base and listened to returning hunters stories of their caribou hunt.

They had taken several caribou and packed them close to camp; too close as it turns out. A barren ground grizzly smelled the caribou meat and walked into their camp. The bear was bold and several rifle shots did not deter it. Finally, one of the hunters shot a nearby 55 gallon drum left over from the 1970s oil exploration and the reverberation from it scared away the bear.

Fogs lifted. Block Party. Youre up. Fifteen minutes flight time put us 20 miles west of the Dalton Highway and on the shore of an unnamed lake. The pilots parting advise was dont try to walk out. The tundra is really hummocky, with no flat place to pitch a tent. Fortunately, a bear had tore the tops off a couple of hummocks looking for ground squirrels. We proceeded to pitch our tent there, as my eyes scanned about for nearby oil drums.

Even at the end of August, it was still daylight on the tundra past midnight. Alaska doesnt have shooting hours, per se. The requirement is that you cant hunt until 3:00 a.m of the day following a non-commercial air flight, i.e., outfitter float plane.

It was now the sixth day since I had left Montana and now I could legally hunt caribou. It was cold. I had on long underwear, wool shirt, long sleeved down vest, hunting jacket, rain jacket, chest waders and leather gloves with woolen inserts and I was freezing.

Walking on the tundra is like walking on a mattress covered with basket balls and water. I fall down a lot at home on the living room carpet, so walking out here was a real challenge. Taking large steps means a rolled ankle or a knee bent backward and Urgent Care walk-in medical clinics are a long ways away.

I hunted every day in my chest waders. Roasted caribou ribs over hot coals? Fuggedaboutit. There is precious little that could burn out on the tundra and even if you could find it, it would be too wet to burn. We didnt have a camp fire the entire time on the tundra.

Day Four on the tundra. We are not seeing any large herds of caribou; only about 10 caribou a day. The largest herd so far is two; a cow and her calf. Seeing mostly single cows and no bulls. With the 60x spotting scope, we are seeing out at least four miles.

The scene is father and son on a ridge, looking out over a vast plain for migrating animals; a scene likely repeated here for the past ten thousand years. Remembering third grade geometry, area = pi (r) squared. Viewing area = 3.14 *(4 miles)^2 or 3.14 * 16 = 50 square miles we are glassing. The herds are not here and they are not migrating. The same thing we later heard from the outfitter. The worst year he had seen in 30 years of hunting there.

A gnarly stream crossing. Thirty feet wide, swift and knee deep except for the middle four feet which was deeply cut and about waist deep. Say a prayer, take a flying leap and hope you dont lose your rifle, your pack and possibly your life.

Time to change tactics. I shoot a caribou cow 2.5 miles from the tent. In hind sight, the cow we saw on day two, 200 hundred yards from the tent would have tasted just as good.

Havent thought once about the presidential election or where the S&P has closed. I have more immediate concerns, like are the GPS batteries going to last until we get back to camp.

My rifle has some rust showing on it. Ive a few rust spots myself. Got two quarters packed back that day. We have seen bear tracks every day, from fishing on the Jim and the Sag to now on the tundra. The stakes are raised now. With the wind and the rain, we have been cooking inside the tent vestibule. Add to those aromas, caribou scent that we couldnt avoid getting on us as we deboned it.

A sniff. Context creates meaning. It could be Al Pacino in A Scent of a Woman or Charlie, Dans beagle, coursing the living room sniffing for a dog cookie Ive hidden. Or, it could be a sniff outside my tent in the middle of the night on the Arctic tundra. Not a growl, not a wuff or a clacking of teeth; just a sniff. The mouth goes dry, the blood runs cold, the pulse pounds. Daniel is not known for hyperbole or drama. After the second sniff, he chambered a round in his .270. Come to find out, the sniff was my foot sliding against the air mattress as I tossed and turned.

After spending some time on the tundra, you come to appreciate the little things in life, like clean underwear, dry socks, and Paula in the kitchen and me wondering what Im having for supper instead of whats having me for supper. I can also appreciate normally not having to do things, like making a mental note where the flashlight, bear spray and cartridges are before closing my eyes for the night.

I came back with a profound appreciation for the intense daily effort to merely survive that certainly was necessary for the First Nation peoples that crossed the Bearing Land Bridge 10,000 years ago following herds of animals. The animals were following greening vegetation getting a foothold as the glaciers receded. Not much has changed on this tundra. Even today, there are many ways for ones life to be cut short. But if it is, rest assured that it can be said that you were truly alive. All told, a caribou hunt on the tundra is probably still safer than eating out in Chicago.

After being off the tundra for a few days, the black fly welts are receding on my face and hands, as well as on other tender parts not normally exposed to the elements. Im also back-sliding on some of the promises I made to the Good Lord during those nights on the tundra and may want to renegotiate more favorable terms.

I appreciate not taking a rifle with me to the bathroom. I appreciate not hearing strange noises in the night. Well, okay, there were some pretty strange noises coming from the room next to me at the motel in Fairbanks, but that is a another story.
America must return to conservative principles of less government,reduced taxes, less spending and a balanced budget! Cut,cap and balance!
A colourful literary carnival will lead the three day Brahmaputra Literary Festival in Guwahati of northeast India starting on 28 January. The vibrant carnival will proceed from the Khanapara locality of the prehistoric city towards the venue of the festival at Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra cultural complex. Union human resources development minister Prakash Javadekar, Assam's education minister Himanta Biswa Sarma are scheduled to flag off the carnival.

In fact, after years of conflicts Assam is ready to welcome hundreds of writers from various parts of the world for the literary congregation. The festival, first of its kind in NE, attracts over 150

authors from India and abroad.

Jointly organized by the National Book Trust of India and Assam government, the festival will be inaugurated by Union minister Javadekar in presence of the State chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal,

State education minister Sarma, NBT director Rita Choudhury along with many distinguished personalities.

'The three-day literary extravaganza is expected to expose the local and budding writers to internationally famed authors. Moreover the visiting writers will also get the literary flavor of our region in the festival,' said NBT director Choudhury, who herself is an acclaimed Assamese author.

Eminent authors who have consented to arrive in the city for the festival include Achala Moulik, Ajay Mago, Amitabh Pandey, Anitha Thampi, Ashok Bhowmick, Bharathi S Pradhan, Carlo Pizzati, Charu Nivedita, Desmond Kharmawphlang, Devendra Mewari, Diptiranjan Pattanaik, Francois Gautier, Ipshita Mitra, Jeyanthi Manokaran, Kaizad Gustad, Kanaka Ha Ma Vishnunadh, Khalid Mohamed, Madhu Gurung, Marika Johansson, Rajiva Wijesinha, Sanjoy Hazarika, Shahid Rafi etc.

The extravaganza includes various programs like panel discussion, book release, book reading, culture items along with screenings of selected films. The festival is expected to depict language, literature, culture and society of the region in a vivid manner to the world. Moreover, the presence of intellectual, litterateur, editor, publisher, student and literary appreciators in the festival is expected to enrich the literary fabric of the region, added Ms Choudhury.
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The world turned upside-down last week when, within just seven days, the United States and China each reversed a posture they held for the past 70 years. In his inaugural address, U.S. President Donald Trump announced his newest slogan, America First, which effectively withdraws the nation from its global leadership role. Meanwhile, China is stepping up as the new leader of world economic order as President Xi Jinping accelerates Chinas efforts to do business with the world, albeit one where it writes the rules to its own benefit. The consequences of these sudden changes will be profound and far-reaching with uncertain outcomes.

Xi Jinping, the first Chinese president ever to attend the World Economic Forum at Davos, opened the annual gathering last week with a full-throated endorsement of globalization, free trade, and cooperation between nations. "It is true that economic globalization has created new problems, he said, but this is no justification to write economic globalization off completely. Rather, we should adapt to and guide economic globalization, cushion its negative impact, and deliver its benefits to all countries and all nations.

Xi warned that populist approaches can lead to war and poverty. "Pursuing protectionism is like locking oneself in a dark room. While wind and rain may be kept outside, that dark room will also block light and air," he said. "No one will emerge as a winner in a trade war."

Meanwhile, Trump took precisely the opposite tack in his inaugural address . From this day forward, its going to be only America first, America first. Every decision on trade, on taxes, on immigration, on foreign affairs will be made to benefit American workers and American families, he announced. We will follow two simple rules: Buy American and hire American."

While other nations have long looked to America for global leadership, the new president has made clear he will pursue a level of isolationism not seen since Col. Charles Lindbergh and the America First Committee of 1940-1941. Demonstrating that he plans to follow through on his campaign promises, President Trump formally withdrew from the Trans-Pacific Partnership on Monday, which in turn, will force reluctant Asian nations to negotiate their own bilateral agreements with China.

During the World Economic Forum last week, I had the opportunity to speak privately with several dozen corporate CEOs from America, Europe, and Asia, all of whom are scrambling to adapt to these sudden changes in the global order. Many of them have invested billions in building up their businesses in China. Now, they fear their plans are in jeopardy. Major global manufacturers from the automotive, pharmaceutical, chemical, medical technology, and consumer products worry that Trumps new policies could disrupt their global manufacturing plans, which have been carefully constructed to optimize the efficiency of their supply chains based on free trade policies.

For all the sturm und drang over job losses caused by imports, the reality is that 85% of lost jobs from 2000 to 2010 were actually outsourced to technology, a point cited by Secretary of State John Kerry at Davos. Under an America First scenario, these losses will likely accelerate as more companies automate their manufacturing plants and also service operations.

The greater concernif there are indeed trade warsis the loss of international revenues and the jobs they have created. The Commerce Department reports that in 2014, U.S. trade with the countries in the now-cancelled Trans-Pacific Partnership created 15.6 million American jobs, and an additional 6.9 million with the European Union. Exports to Mexico and Canada in 2015 accounted for 2.2 million jobsa number that has grown during the last five years. Collectively, the number of jobs created by exports exceeds the 7.5 million Americans who are unemployed.

There is no doubt that President Trump is getting his message across, as he meets directly with CEOs of major global companies and sends out tweets threatening those that move jobs offshore. His approach offers the carrot-and-stick: He promises incentives like reductions in corporate taxes and regulations, while asserting he will punish those that go offshore. CEOsincluding Fords (F, +0.97%) Mark Fields and Amazons (AMZN, -0.40%) Jeff Bezoshave found it enticing to join hands with the new president. The leaders of foreign companies like Fiat Chrysler (FCAU, +0.18%) , Alibaba (BABA, -0.66%) , and SoftBank have also tried to appease Trump with promises of U.S. investment and job creation. Such moves may work in the near-term to ease the political pressure, but are unlikely to bridge the widening gulf between Trumps policies and the rest of the worlds opportunities.

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Automobile makers are in a particularly difficult spot. In recent years, they have optimized their global manufacturing footprint and supply chains to produce large, profitable vehicles in the U.S., while shifting small vehicles, where margins are paper thin, to the lower-cost markets of China and Mexico. With the U.S. auto market at its peak, they are unable to expand U.S. production, especially when the greater opportunities for General Motors (GM, -1.36%) and Ford are in China with its large and fast-growing market.

While Trump is gaining short-term reinforcement for his America First policies, in the longer term, basic economics will dominate the thinking of U.S.-based global companies. These companies can ill afford to pursue uneconomic decisions without loss of their international business, which in turn will create increased pressure from shareholders demanding improved earnings.

The larger concern is the U.S. retreat from its 70-year role as the leader in global trade. This leadership has largely enabled us to set the rules governing trading transactions. If the U.S. steps aside, it will enable China to aggressively fill this vacuum, setting its own rules. If this occurs, Americas global companies and their employees will be the biggest losers, ceding leadership of their industries to emerging Asian and European companies.

The Trump administration is still making its opening moves. Nobody can predict how these early efforts ultimately play out. However, if the Trump administration focuses entirely on U.S. domestic manufacturing under its new America First moniker, the U.S. will hand China the leadership reins in a new era for the global economy.

Bill George is senior fellow at Harvard Business School, former chair and CEO of Medtronic, and author of Discover Your True North.
Indias military might was on view during its Republic Day parade on January 26. Much of the focus of its armed forces is on China even though they are more regularly engaged in dealing with Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir. China looms large in the minds of Indias planners  owing to its large military budget, its modernisation plans and the aggressive posturing in the South China Sea  but there is not enough public discussion as to what a future India-China war might look like.





























Slide 1 of 15 Previous Slide Next Slide 1/15 SLIDES  Raj K Raj/Hindustan Times via Getty Images; Vipin Kumar/Hindustan Times via Getty Images

This gap has been impressively addressed in a paper by Iskander Rehman for the Naval War College Review titled A Himalayan Challenge: Indias Conventional Deterrent and the Role of Special Operations Forces along the Sino-Indian Border. Rehman, senior fellow at Pell Center for International Relations and Public Policy at Salve Regina University, draws on extensive source material and interviews with figures in Indian intelligence, military and special forces to capture how Indian and Chinese strategists think about a border war, the way they are organising their resources and the constraints they face. The paper essentially tries to assess if Indias operational concepts are sufficiently tailored tothe evolving Chinese challenge.

To begin with, Rehman outlines four factors that will shape India-China conflict. First, the territorial defence postures of both countries. India maintains its large body of troops relatively close to the border while China stations a limited number in its interior in Tibet. Second is the climate and the difficult terrain. Areas along the Indian side are not amenable to mechanised warfare, except certain parts of Ladakh and Sikkim. The high elevation of Tibet gives China some commanding advantages for surveillance, artillery operations and acclimatisation of troops to high altitudes. High altitude and extreme cold affect almost every element of military equipment; they complicate air campaigns and battle plans. Third, is the infrastructure disparity between the two sides. The Peoples Liberation Army has rapid access to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) thanks to the terrain and highways and high-speed railway networks it has built whereas Indian troops often have to trek several hours, if not days, to attain certain areas. Fourth, there are very different command structures on both sides  India has several regional army and air force commands, China has one unified western theatre command.

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Planners on both sides believe that the next India-China conflict will be limited in scope and short in duration, rather than a protracted, large-scale, force-on-force campaign, because of the nuclear overhang and the prospect of a third party intervention if it prolongs. This has a bearing on the kind of war they prepare for. Chinese writings since the 1990s have emphasised transtheater mobility, rapid massing of strength, gaining initiative from striking first and fighting a quick battle to force a quick solution.

In the event of a conflict with India, conventional forces will be rushed in from the interior and these will be accompanied by air, electronic and cyber operations. The PLAs air force (PLAAF) and artillery will conduct standoff strikes to disrupt and delay the arrival of Indian forces coming from the lowlands. PLAs Special Operations Forces (SOFs) will be deployed to attack vital targets to create favourable conditions for main force units. Rehman writes that India has been following with a certain degree of trepidation, the rapid development of Chinas airborne assault capabilities via the PLAAFs 15th Airborne Corps, numbering over 35,000 troops and headquartered at Xiaogan, from where it is expected to reach any part of China within ten hours.

Responding to this, India is building on its advantage in conventional troops numbers augmenting its force structure with new battalions of scouts, adding air, missile and surveillance assets, raising a new Mountain Strike Corps and improving its road and rail infrastructure in the border regions. Beyond these material indicators Rehman argues that the most significant change has occurred in the intellectual domain as Indian defence planners have adopted much more vigorous, tactically offensive approach to territorial defence. Raising a Strike Corps was a way of moving away from deterrence by denial to deterrence by punishment; to a form of offensive defence, a cross-border riposte strategy. As an army colonel told Rehman once the Chinese seize a position, it may be very difficult to dislodge them. Rather than expend much blood and treasure attempting to storm impregnable positions, we should pursue a strategy of horizontal escalation and capture territory elsewhere. In line with this, Ladakh and northern Sikkim are good locations for a mechanised riposte where Indias forces would sweep down frommountain plains to conduct pincer movements behind Chinese formations, with the hope of breaking troop concentration. Indias air and missile power would aid these mechanised incursions into Tibet, as part of a wider theatre strategy.

Rehman argues, however, that notwithstanding this Indias approach to conventional deterrence has certain limitations. While Indian planners have moved toward adopting a more-offensive form of area denial, they continue to rely, for the most part, on conventional forces that could be overcome or circumvented in the event of a fast-moving, localised, and limited border confrontation launched from higher elevations. This leads to several problems. India is reliant on dispersed, poorly equipped paramilitary forces like the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) as its first line of defence in many of the forward areas most vulnerable to Chinese aggression. The nature of the topography is such that conventional troops, which are substantially stationed in lower altitudes, are relatively static  moving them from lowlands is challenging, and while they wind up mountain roads and valleys during conflict they are vulnerable to artillery, missile or air strikes.

These weaknesses can be addressed, in Rehmans view, by a greater complementarity between conventional forces and Special Operations Forces that can play a critical role behind enemy lines, conducting sabotage, reconnaissance, and direct-action operations. SOFs can be used to strike airbases, reconnaissance assets and disrupt build-up of PLA forces. SOFs are also useful to counter gray zone aggression described by Michael Mazarr as sequences of gradual steps to secure strategic leverage, which would include Pakistans covert action and Chinas use of infrastructural development to cement territorial claims. In view of their utility, Rehmans surveys in some detail Indias SOFs, their composition, mandates, operational challenges and deficiencies, which will no doubt be pored over by planners (and adversaries).

Some aspects of Rehmans diagnosis need immediate attention though. Road and rail projects in border areas continue to be delayed. As of May 2016, only twenty-one of sixty-one border road projects designated strategic had been completed. Twenty eight strategic railway lines were sanctioned in 2010, six years later none have been finalized. Chronic shortfalls in essential equipment continue, including parachutes, night vision devices, high-altitude clothing and even aluminium, belt-attachable water bottles. SOFs have expanded too rapidly in size and in ad hoc manner, without the benefit of careful, deliberate planning  and in numerous cases battalions have had to operate with inferior equipment sourced from infantry. There is not enough training capacity to cope with expanded forces. Attrition levels are high; most special forces units have an officer shortfall of 25-30%.

Perhaps the greatest set of challenges lies in the organizational domain, writes Rehman. Like other analysts, he calls for restructuring around a Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC) to harmonise the large number of SOFs, address inter-service rivalry and bring about greater strategic and doctrinal clarity.

Rehmans paper is a remarkable piece of scholarship that serves Indias defence establishment well. One cannot help but wonder reading it why such an important work on India-China conflict happens to be the product of a western institution rather than an Indian one. There are certainly some outstanding international relations scholars in India, who happen to be productive in spite of the prohibitive climate they operate in. It is worth considering the conditions needed for producing valuable academic work. A paper like Rehmans has a gestation period (requiring institutional support for scholars to pursue time-taking endeavours), it needs financial support, to create congenial conditions for research and to travel for fieldwork and interviews, and it needs access to establishment figures. Indian scholars based in India can rarely count on these; they are more likely to be underpaid and undervalued by the establishment.

Most importantly, a paper like this needs a strategic and intellectual ecosystem that values critical voices and contrarian thinking. Politicians must know that such rigorous scrutiny serves the public good  and that fine academic work is a product of the habits of thought that are nurtured in institutions, principally universities. If universities are instead turned into receptacles of conformity then India will not have the expertise that great powers need. It will also not establish institutions that will have the credibility and influence to define the debate abroad. Right now a paper originating in a western institution is initiating a conversation on India-China conflict. There is, by contrast, no piece of Indian work on American democracy that shapes the debate in the US on the age of Trump.

The author tweets as @SushilAaron

Editors note: The opinions in this article are the authors, as published by our content partner, and do not represent the views of MSN or Microsoft.
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The city of Santa Maria is looking for partners to join in its efforts to help at-risk youth
The hits just keep coming for City College of San Francisco, which earlier this month retained its accreditation for the next seven years and recently received a $9 million earmark from the Board of Supervisors to fund free tuition for city residents. (Mayor Lee intends to redesignate those funds, though, so its hardly a done deal.) Now City College has announced a new curriculum designed to prepare students to join the budding cannabis industry, after the passage of Prop. 64 in November made recreational use of marijuana legal in California. In the state of California alone, cannabis is projected to blaze up $6.5 billion in sales by 2020 according to industry analyst Arcview Market Research.

The emerging workforce opportunities with employers who dispense cannabis are a robust career opportunity for members of our communities, CCSF spokesperson Jeffrey Hamilton told SFist.

The City College cannabis classes will not simply be sessions on how to grow weed. The curriculum we are discussing will align to roles and responsibilities for Pharmacy Technicians, not cultivation, Hamilton said.

While still in the planning phase, this is curriculum is being foreseen as a joint operation between the Oakland-based cannabis college Oaksterdam University and the labor union United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) that represents marijuana workers. Enrollees will likely be required to be enrolled in a UFCW apprenticeship program.

By creating a partnership, we will ensure that these opportunities are broadly announced and that the model includes a pathway to college, Hamilton told SFist. When we partnered with UFCW they had an already existing relationship with Oaksterdam which is why they are part of the program.

In other words, it is unlikely that youll be able to just enroll for free-tuition cannabis courses with no prerequisite involvement in a cannabis industry union. That said, prerequisites are still not stoned-in for these courses that would that are slated to begin in the spring 2018 semester.

We are still in discussions about how to structure the partnership, according to Hamilton. As currently envisioned, initially the apprenticeship would be based on an employment first model which means employers hire apprentices who then earn and learn concurrently.

A cannabis curriculum might sound like a cheap and gimmicky way to attract students wishing to "major in marijuana," but City College is probably being quite shrewd to create apprenticeship programs and Pharm Tech curricula around the industry. California already generates nearly the triple the amount of cannabis revenue than the next-highest state of Colorado. Even though no-holds-barred recreational use is already in full effect in Colorado, that states marijuana industry made $996.2 million in 2015. California, which is still functionally a medical-use only state, cleared $2.5 billion in 2015.

Furthermore, marijuana is already California top cash crop. And the billion-dollar buzz of full recreational use hasnt even kicked in yet.

Related: Welcome To Legal Weed Boom Town, Where Even Former Sheriff Ross Mirkarimi Is Cashing In
Donald Trump's asinine executive order Friday banning entry into the country of all people from seven Muslim-majority nations for at least 90 days  making good on his xenophobic campaign promises to fight radical Islamic terrorism by punishing the entire Muslim world  has sent shockwaves through much of the world, and through the ranks of global Silicon Valley companies who have thousands of employees abroad. In an email to employees obtained by the Wall Street Journal, Google CEO Sundar Pichai said "Were upset about the impact of this order and any proposals that could impose restrictions on Googlers and their families, or that could create barriers to bringing great talent to the US." He added, "It's painful to see the personal cost of this executive order on our colleagues."

Pichai said that the order immediately impacted 187 Google employees, and two company employees discussed their own situations at an internal all-hands meeting broadcast to all employees. Also, he said, "Just as that discussion was happening, another Googler was rushing back from a trip to New Zealand to make it into the US before the order was signed."

He said to all employees "If youre abroad and need help please reach out to our global security team."

Trump's order had the immediate, highly publicized effect of causing the detention of two Iraqi refugees at JFK Airport in New York, one of whom had worked on behalf of the US government in Iraq for ten years.

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg, clearly trying to a toe a line between protecting his employees and not wanting to sound overly partisan, wrote a more wishy-washy statement in a public post to the site, embedded below. He began by saying that his own grandparents immigrated from Germany, Austria and Poland, his wife Priscilla's parents were refugees from China and Vietnam. "Like many of you, I'm concerned about the impact of the recent executive orders signed by President Trump," he wrote. "We need to keep this country safe, but we should do that by focusing on people who actually pose a threat."

Then he tried to sound a more positive, less critical note?

We should also keep our doors open to refugees and those who need help. That's who we are. Had we turned away refugees a few decades ago, Priscilla's family wouldn't be here today.

That said, I was glad to hear President Trump say he's going to "work something out" for Dreamers -- immigrants who were brought to this country at a young age by their parents. Right now, 750,000 Dreamers benefit from the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program that allows them to live and work legally in the US. I hope the President and his team keep these protections in place, and over the next few weeks I'll be working with our team at FWD.us to find ways we can help.

I'm also glad the President believes our country should continue to benefit from "people of great talent coming into the country."

As TechCrunch notes, Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg posted her own note on Thursday criticizing the President's executive order cutting funding to foreign aid organizations that provide counseling about family planning options including abortion. "The last time the global gag rule was in effect," she wrote, "research showed more women who lost access to contraception had unwanted pregnancies and abortion rates doubled. The best way to prevent abortion is through more family planning services, not fewer."

Meanwhile, on Friday, Zuckerberg and his wife dropped some lawsuits they filed in December in their attempt to acquire certain plots of land on the Hawaiian island of Kauai, as USA Today reported. We learned of the Zuckerberg-Chans' purchase of a huge estate on Kauai back in 2014, and more recently learned of a giant wall he was having constructed around the property. Zuckerberg was trying to acquire a group of small properties that lie within the 700-acre compound, but now he says that "it's clear we made a mistake," after causing an uproar over lands that belong to native Hawaiians.

Related: Mark Zuckerberg Won't Run For President, But Is Preparing For More Political Battles
In a release that went out Friday, San Francisco Animal Care & Control (SFACC) announced that they had just rescued 40 rabbits, "mainly underage kits," and they had done so via an individual "who advertised the sale of the rabbits for meat or pets on Craigslist." Since the sale of rabbits is illegal in San Francisco  as is the sale of most pets  SFACC stepped in and seized the animals, and they've partnered with rabbit rescue organization Save a Bunny to get them adopted.

As you can see in the video below, they are quite cute.

If you're interested in adopting one, they will be available for adoption in about a month, and you can contact Save a Bunny through Facebook or by calling 415.388.2790.

Says Virginia Donohue, Executive Director of Animal Care & Control, "Wed like to encourage the community to call us to report animal neglect or abuse. And you can do that by calling their Emergency Dispatch at 415.554.9400.
He called her Elf, because she was a young and diminutive reporter whose only defense was her pen. And he was a large, intimidating man who admitted to killing eight women and stashing them to rot in his familys fetid house.

For more than a decade, the reporter and the serial killer corresponded, talked on the phone and met a few times in a prison visiting room.

Kendall Francois loved it. He was a narcissist who basked in Claudia Rowes attention.

But Rowe wanted something, too. She used Francois to understand the origins of the cruelty that had defined her childhood and stunted her heart.

Rowe, now an education writer at The Seattle Times, has captured her 18-year odyssey with Francois in The Spider and the Fly: A Reporter, a Serial Killer and the Meaning of Murder.

The story starts in Poughkeepsie, New York, where Rowe was working as a stringer for The New York Times. After six women  known drug addicts and prostitutes  disappeared, Rowe alerted her editors and started following the story.

It led to Francois, a member of one of the few African-American families in Dutchess County. He was arrested, and eventually confessed to killing eight women and stashing their bodies in his familys home, where dishes were left to be blanketed by mold and the plumbing seized.

Five bodies in the attic, three in the basement.

Rowe dutifully reported on Francois case as it wound through the legal system, and he was finally sent to Attica Correctional Facility. But she couldnt let it go.

It just stayed in my head, she said recently, of that time in 1998, grinding and grinding over it.

A year later she wrote to Francois, asking for an interview, an explanation for his crimes.

It was a way of looking at various types of violence in my own life, Rowe said. A couple of things about him triggered me. A sense of being lonely in your own community. Not fitting in.

Like Francois, Rowe was deeply alienated early on by her mother, who was verbally and emotionally abusive. In school, she felt ostracized.

I thought that (Francois) might be able to tell me what I needed to know, Rowe said. What is the motivation for cruelty? What makes a person knowingly hurt? I was frantic to know that, and he was going to be a way in.

Francois gave her little about what drove him to rape and murder eight women, and toss them, like trash bags, into a heap.

How I deal with the awful things Ive done is personal, he wrote in one letter. Even if I wanted to pour my heart to you, I couldnt  It is far more complicated than you know. Rage was the vehicle, but not the cause or trigger. I no longer believe anger management would have helped me.
The devastating impact of Alzheimers disease on his own mother  and on his father, who struggled to care for her  first prompted Gerry Richman to take a hard look at the disease.

As vice president of national productions at Twin Cities Public Television, he was the mastermind behind a 2004 Emmy-winning documentary called The Forgetting: A Portrait of Alzheimers. Now, Richman is back with another eye-opening film on the subject.

Alzheimers: Every Minute Counts  airing across the country  chronicles the struggles of people living with Alzheimers and the emotional and financial challenges it poses for their families.

It also forecasts, through interviews with doctors and researchers, a looming crisis for the country as baby boomers enter their senior years and their risk of developing Alzheimers increases.

A lot of the experts use the term skyrocket,? Richman said, referring to the potential deluge of Alzheimers cases.

The current numbers are scary enough. More than 5 million Americans have Alzheimers  with one new case identified every minute.

Alzheimers is a neurological disease that robs a persons memory and ability to care for oneself. There is no known cure, and it is not reversible.

In addition to the emotional toll, it can cost tens of thousands of dollars to take care of someone with Alzheimers, making it one of the most expensive diseases and provoking some health experts to predict that it will collapse both Medicare and Medicaid  and the finances of millions of people.

This is a major wake-up call to the country about the need to find a cure and to support all efforts to find a cure, or there will be a major social and economic crisis in the United States, Richman said.

A call to action

Part of the problem is that for too long, Alzheimers was not a recognized disease.

Its a weird thing because its not physically obvious, but it causes strange behavior, explained Elizabeth Arledge, writer, producer and director of both The Forgetting and Every Minute Counts documentaries. Only within the last 20 years have people realized that its a disease.

Although Alzheimers can strike people younger than 65, it generally occurs in those much older. The risk of developing the disease doubles every five years after 65, according to the National Institute on Aging. It becomes much more common among people in their 80s and 90s. With longer life spans come greater numbers of people at risk of Alzheimers.

There hasnt been a large population of 85-year-olds until this generation, Arledge said.

As public awareness of Alzheimers has grown, so has the amount of funding for medical research dedicated to it. Over the past four years, federal funding for the disease has doubled to $991 million. But that amount still pales in comparison with the billions the federal government spends on research for heart disease, cancer and HIV/AIDS.

Death rates for those diseases have dropped. Alzheimers research advocates are hoping for a similar outcome if funding is increased. Arledge said that message comes through in the documentary.

If theres something that people will come away with from the film, it would be that things can change when people mobilize, she said.

In the meantime, medical researchers are in a race against time to develop new therapies to better treat Alzheimers symptoms.

Do we cure cancer, heart disease or diabetes? No, but we can make significant progress, said Dr. Ron Petersen, director of the Mayo Clinic Alzheimers disease Research Center.

So if Im destined to develop Alzheimers disease-related changes in the brain at age 75, and I can push that to age 78 or 80, thats a big deal. Thats why I say delaying onset and slowing progression is a more realistic goal than a cure.
SIOUX CITY | A nationally touring exhibition will give Siouxlanders a taste of one of Asia's rich textile traditions beginning Saturday at the Sioux City Public Museum.

The exhibition, titled "Cloth as Community: Hmong Textiles in America," will feature 28 textiles -- flower cloths and embroidered story clothes -- made by those in the Hmong community.

Hmong flower cloth is one of the world's great textile traditions that became more widely known outside Asia after the Vietnam War, when Hmong refugees arrived in the United States.

A local item accompanying the display will be a Hmong story cloth quilt from the Sioux City Public Museum's collection that was made by members of the Hmong community in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.

The museum's hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is free.

The exhibit will continue through March 5.
SIOUX CITY | Matthew Ung admits he has pursuits that put him out of the norm in Siouxland. He's an accomplished diver and sought political office at a young age.

Ung has been admittedly serious, dogged and independent in many of his life quests. He took up scuba lessons without any of his buddies doing so at the same time and helped process the immigration paperwork for his wife, Nheylin Ung, to become a U.S. citizen, without the benefit of an attorney.

His attempts to win elective office where done with an outsider bent, Ung said. On the second try in 2014, Ung was elected to the Woodbury County Board of Supervisors.

"I committed the cardinal sin of Republican politics -- I primaried an incumbent, twice, and you are not supposed to do that," Ung said.

"I am not a group-think person at all."

In January, Ung was elected chairman of the Woodbury County Board of Supervisors. At age 28, he is believed to be the youngest county board chair in Iowa, though no official records are kept.

"It is crazy...I've always been around people older than me," Ung said. "Every single person in the (county) courthouse is older than me. It is humbling."

In a recent interview, Ung said he's got the skill set and maturity to ably lead the board for the next year. He said is "very serious... very methodical," possessed of a high level of critical thinking, and with a dry sense of humor.

MEDICAL INTEREST

The oldest of two children, Ung grew up in Sergeant Bluff and Sioux City. He volunteered at the Siouxland Soup Kitchen and embraced church activities before graduating with honors at East High School.

"I skipped fifth grade, so I wasn't a nerd, but I always loved learning," Ung said.

Ung also began traveling at a young age. So far, he has visited 10 countries, including Honduras, where he met his future wife.

As a child, Ung said at one point he wanted to be a pilot. He also admired his father, Dr. Kham Vay Ung, who operates a podiatry clinic. At one point, Ung considered pursuing a medical career himself, and started college as a pre-med major.

"A lot of elder sons of Asians start (college) pre-med," Ung said.

He shifted gears, obtaining two degrees from Creighton University, including a master's degree in business administration, which he says helps in paring down county spending and taxation.

Ung previously worked for a medical business of his father's Foot & Ankle Clinic in Sioux City before moving to become a quality services department associate for the Dunes Surgical Hospital in Dakota Dunes. That job has become more part-time this year, as he has gone from putting in 15 to 25 hours per week as a supervisor to more than 35 hours per week as county board chairman.

"The public may say (county supervisors) are part-time, but we are on call 24-7, especially the chair," Ung said.

PRIMARY CHALLENGES

Ung's entry to seeking public office came in spring 2012, when he challenged Republican state Rep. Ron Jorgensen in a primary for a House seat. Ung said he was the more conservative of the two Republicans. He got the support of Woodbury County Republican Party Chairman Brian Rosener, but lost to Jorgensen, 1,276 to 1,014 votes.

In June 2014, Ung took part in another Republican Party primary. He defeated county board District 4 incumbent Supervisor David Tripp, and advanced to the general election. At the time, Tripp was facing domestic abuse charges. In the November general election, Ung defeated Alex Watters, a Sioux City Democrat.

At times, Ung has garnered criticism for some controversial social media post. For example, 10 people showed up at a June 2016 board meeting to voice their opinions about a Facebook post on the day a shooting at a LGBT-friendly nightclub in Orlando, Florida, that left 49 people dead. The shooter was identified as a Muslim had declared allegiance to the Islamic State during a communication with law enforcement at some point before he was killed by police.

Ung's public Facebook post posed a question about Islam and Christianity in relation to the shooting.

Just wondering: When the world showers their prayers over the worst mass shooting in U.S. history, are they praying to the Allah the Muslim shooter was hollering about, or are they praying to the Christian God whose preachers down the street told people not to go to that gay bar? Choose this day whom you will serve."

'DOING THE RIGHT THING'

After serving as board vice chair last year, Ung was unanimously elevated to chairman by the four other supervisors in early January.

Ung said some people opposed his election, but added that earning the county leadership posts proves the supervisors have embraced his leadership skills.

In spite of having just two years of experience as a supervisor, he leads a board that includes new three members -- Republicans Keith Radig and Rocky De Witt and Democrat Marty Pottebaum -- who were elected in November. The fifth member and other holdover is Taylor, who like Ung was elected in 2014 and served as chairman last year.

Ung said he's quickly seen that serving as chairman means more time devoted to the county than in his first two years as a supervisor. He also said leading a board with so many newbies has made the chairmanship more challenging.

Ung said he does a good job of setting the scene for the discussion of an issue in meetings, letting the supervisors debate the topic, then "encapsulating the discussion after the other supervisors have spoken."

His chairman tasks include presiding at the county board meetings each Tuesday. Outside the meetings, Ung speaks daily with department heads, attends committee meetings and hears from county residents on varying issues.

"My methodical nature is helpful," Ung said, but the duties can be challenging.

"It is stressful," Ung said.

"But I still have a sense of joy, because I understand now, more than ever in my life, what it means to follow that (biblical) verse of, 'Whatever your hand finds to do, do it for the glory of God and not for men,' because some of the routine, more crisis management tasks that a chairman has don't feel that purposeful. But I get a sense of satisfaction from it, because I know I am doing the right thing and it is a service."

Ung said his goals for 2017 are to have a third consecutive year with a reduced property tax levy in the budget to be set by March and to elevate the role of committee work, to bring forth good proposals to supervisor meetings.

Larry Clausen departed the County Board in December, leaving as the dean of the three exiting supervisors, by virtue of his 34 years. Clausen said Ung needs to remember that in cutting taxes it is still important to provide sufficient services to county residents.

Clausen said Ung over the last two years needed to recognize he was going up the learning curve and in need of more experience.

"Maybe now that he is chairman, he will put the time in," Clausen said.

County Auditor Pat Gill, who takes minutes compiling the actions at each board meeting, said he's seen positive work by Ung. Gill said new supervisors have a steep learning curve, stating Ung recognized that and got to work.

"I am impressed that he has done his homework and will visit with you before he makes a decision. He doesn't come in thinking he knows everything," Gill said.

"I have been impressed with him, intelligent, hard-working and he has done his homework."

De Witt said Ung is poised to do well as chairman.

"He follows the rule of law and is mindful of transparency to keep the taxpayers informed," De Witt said.

Ung said he never imagined as a kid that he would be chairman of a government body in a county with more than 100,000 people.

"What I was sure of was that I didn't want a typical 9-to-5 job. I just knew that I wanted to serve and to do something that mattered," he said.

Ung said he's met that goal.

"I have a deep sense of satisfaction from serving," he said.
DES MOINES | The Iowa Judicial Branch on Friday became the first state agency to tell employees they will have to take an unpaid furlough day as legislators near agreement on a plan to save the state nearly $118 million in five months.

All court offices in the state will be closed and 1,446 court employees, except judges and magistrates, will be forced to take the unpaid day on May 26, which saves an estimated $364,573, Iowa State Court Administrator David K. Boyd told employees in a letter.

In all, the Judicial Branch expects it will be required to cut $3 million from its existing budget of about $180 million.

To meet a projected revenue shortfall before June 30, lawmakers are planning to de-appropriate more than $88 million and make about $25 million in fund transfers, among other moves. TSome 19,000 state employees represented by AFSCME will vote on whether to accept the states request they give up a recent 1.25 percent pay raise.

The Senate has passed the budget measure and the House is expected to pass it Monday. Gov. Terry Branstad has indicated he would sign it.

Boyd, in his letter to judicial employees, explained that since personnel costs account for about 95 percent of its operating budget, options to save money are limited. The key, he wrote, is to use vacant positions to make up most of the cut.

At the beginning of the fiscal year, there were 70 staff vacancies. Thats now grown to 111. In addition, judge positions that became vacant during the year had been held open for about six months, he said.

We budgeted for nine judgeship vacancies, but so far we have had 12, Boyd said. Based on our savings to date, I believe we can hold sufficient positions vacant for the balance of the fiscal year to get us within $400,000 of covering the $3 million appropriation.

Boyd said court officials will continue to search for savings from other measures.

If at some point between now and May 26th we find sufficient additional savings, we will cancel the need for this one day of court closures and unpaid leave.

Boyd said judges and magistrates are expected to work that day unless approved to be off.

In his letter, Boyd noted that during the past two fiscal years all non-judicial employees received pay increases along with step increases for those already not at the top of their pay grade, Judges and magistrates have had only one increase since 2008.

The last statewide court closure due to budget cuts was in 2010, the Judicial Branch said.
DES MOINES | Members of a union representing about 600 officers, included Iowa State Patrol troopers, say they didnt reject the states request to forego a pay raise they won through collective bargaining.

Instead, the State Police Officers Council said it was the state that declined their offer to return to the bargaining table in order to find a way for the union members to assist the state in dealing with a $118 million budget shortfall over the last six months of the fiscal year.

If the state accepted SPOCs contract offer for the 2018 fiscal year then SPOCs members could be in a position to consider the states proposal to forego our 1.25 percent pay increase in 2017 and assist the state in meeting their FY17 revenue shortfall, Sue Brown, the unions executive director replied. In its initial contract request, SPOC sought a 3 percent across-the-board pay increase for each of the next two fiscal years.

A spokeswoman for PolicyWorks, which represents the union, said that in the past SPOC members have foregone salary increases in exchange for maintaining some aspects of their health insurance plans.

SPOC is currently the lowest-cost employee insurance group in the state, and contributes 20 percent toward their insurance premiums. Jessica Maldonado wrote.

The union is concerned that Gov. Terry Branstads proposal to cover all state, county, city and school employees with one health insurance plan would inevitably raise insurance premiums for SPOC members who have been thoughtful users of their insurance plan, shed aid.

SPOC consistently has had the lowest cost family plan of all state employees, and no rate increase last year compared to an average 10 percent rate increase for all other state employee group pools, according to Maldonado.

Rather than rejects the states request, SPOC tried to work with the state to find a solution that would help the state with its current budget needs and also provide some assurance for our state law enforcement, she added.

The Department of Administrative Services, which represents the state in contract negotiations, confirmed the unions counter-offer was not accepted.

Iowa United Professionals rejected the request and AFSCMEs 19,000 state employees will begin voting in early February on whether to accept the states request.
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LTD., METLIFE INSURANCE AND INVESTMENT TRUST, METLIFE INSURANCE BROKERAGE INC., METLIFE INSURANCE COMPANY OF KOREA LTD., METLIFE INSURANCE K.K., METLIFE INSURANCE LIMITED, METLIFE INTERNATIONAL HF PARTNERS LP, METLIFE INTERNATIONAL HOLDINGS LLC, METLIFE INTERNATIONAL LIMITED LLC, METLIFE INTERNATIONAL PE FUND I LP, METLIFE INTERNATIONAL PE FUND II LP, METLIFE INTERNATIONAL PE FUND III LP, METLIFE INTERNATIONAL PE FUND IV LP, METLIFE INTERNATIONAL PE FUND V LP, METLIFE INTERNATIONAL PE FUND VI LP, METLIFE INTERNATIONAL PE FUND VII LP, METLIFE INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT EUROPE LIMITED, METLIFE INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT HOLDINGS LIMITED, METLIFE INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT HOLDINGS LLC, METLIFE INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LIMITED, METLIFE INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LLC, METLIFE INVESTMENTS ASIA LIMITED, METLIFE INVESTMENTS LIMITED, METLIFE INVESTMENTS PTY LIMITED, METLIFE INVESTMENTS SECURITIES LLC, METLIFE INVESTORS DISTRIBUTION COMPANY, METLIFE INVESTORS GROUP LLC, METLIFE IRELAND TREASURY D.A.C., METLIFE JAPAN US EQUITY FUND GP LLC, METLIFE JAPAN US EQUITY FUND LP, METLIFE JAPAN US EQUITY OWNERS BLOCKER LLC, METLIFE JAPAN US EQUITY OWNERS LLC, METLIFE LATIN AMERICA ASESORIAS E INVERSIONES LIMITADA, METLIFE LEGAL PLANS INC., METLIFE LEGAL PLANS OF FLORIDA INC., METLIFE LHH MEMBER LLC, METLIFE LIFE INSURANCE S.A., METLIFE LOAN ASSET MANAGEMENT LLC, METLIFE LONG SHORT CREDIT FUND LP, METLIFE LONG SHORT CREDIT MASTER FUND LP, METLIFE LONG SHORT CREDIT PARALLEL FUND LP, METLIFE MAS S.A. DE C.V., METLIFE MEXICO HOLDINGS S. DE R.L. DE C.V., METLIFE MEXICO S.A. DE C.V., METLIFE MEXICO SERVICIOS S.A. DE C.V., METLIFE MIDDLE MARKET PRIVATE DEBT FUND II LP, METLIFE MIDDLE MARKET PRIVATE DEBT GP II LLC, METLIFE MIDDLE MARKET PRIVATE DEBT GP LLC, METLIFE MIDDLE MARKET PRIVATE DEBT II RATED FUND LP, METLIFE MIDDLE MARKET PRIVATE DEBT PARALLEL FUND LP, METLIFE MIDDLE MARKET PRIVATE DEBT PARALLEL GP LLC, METLIFE MMPD II SPECIAL LLC, METLIFE MULTI-FAMILY PARTNERS III LLC, METLIFE OBS MEMBER LLC, METLIFE OFC MEMBER LLC, METLIFE ONTARIO STREET MEMBR LLC, METLIFE PARK TOWER MEMBER LLC, METLIFE PENSION TRUSTEES LIMITED, METLIFE PENSIONES MEXICO S.A., METLIFE PET INSURANCE SOLUTIONS LLC, METLIFE PLANOS ODONTOLOGICOS LTDA., METLIFE POWSZECHNE TOWARTZYSTWO EMERYTALNE S.A., METLIFE PRIVATE EQUITY HOLDINGS LLC, METLIFE PROPERTIES VENTURES LLC, METLIFE RC SF MEMBER LLC, METLIFE REAL ESTATE LENDING LLC, METLIFE REINSURANCE COMPANY OF BERMUDA LTD., METLIFE REINSURANCE COMPANY OF CHARLESTON, METLIFE REINSURANCE COMPANY OF VERMONT, METLIFE RETIREMENT SERVICES LLC, METLIFE SECURITIZATION DEPOSITOR LLC, METLIFE SEGUROS S.A., METLIFE SENIOR DIRECT LENDING FINCO LLC, METLIFE SENIOR DIRECT LENDING FUND LP, METLIFE SENIOR DIRECT LENDING GP LLC, METLIFE SENIOR DIRECT LENDING HOLDINGS LP, METLIFE SERVICES AND SOLUTIONS LLC, METLIFE SERVICES CYPRUS LTD., METLIFE SERVICES EAST PRIVATE LIMITED, METLIFE SERVICES EEIG, METLIFE SERVICES EOOD, METLIFE SERVICES SOCIEDAD LIMITADA, METLIFE SERVICES SP Z.O.O, METLIFE SERVICIOS S.A., METLIFE SINGLE FAMILY RENTAL FUND GP LLC, METLIFE SINGLE FAMILY RENTAL FUND LP, METLIFE SOLUTIONS PTE. LTD., METLIFE SOLUTIONS S.A.S., METLIFE SP HOLDINGS LLC, METLIFE STRATEGIC HOTEL DEBT FUND GP LLC, METLIFE SYNDICATED BANK LOAN LUX GP S.A.R.L., METLIFE THR INVESTOR LLC, METLIFE TOWARZYSTWO FUNDUSZY INWESTYCYJNYCH S.A., METLIFE TOWARZYSTWO UBEZPIECZEN NA ZYCIE I REASEKURACJI S.A., METLIFE TOWER RESOURCES GROUP INC., METLIFE TREAT TOWERS MEMBER LLC, METLIFE WORLDWIDE HOLDINGS LLC, METROPOLITAN GENERAL INSURANCE COMPANY, METROPOLITAN GLOBAL MANAGEMENT LLC, METROPOLITAN LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY, METROPOLITAN LIFE SEGUROS E PREVIDENCIA PRIVADA S.A., METROPOLITAN LIFE SOCIETATE de ADMINISTRARE a UNUI FOND de PENSII ADMINISTRAT PRIVAT S.A., METROPOLITAN TOWER LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY, METROPOLITAN TOWER REALTY COMPANY INC., MEX DF PROPERTIES LLC, MFA FINANCING VEHICLE CTR1 LLC, MIDTOWN HEIGHTS LLC, MIM CAMPUS AT SGV MANAGER LLC, MIM CLAL GENERAL PARTNER LLC, MIM CM SYNDICATOR LLC, MIM EMD GP LLC, MIM I LLC, MIM LS GP LLC, MIM METWEST INTERNATIONAL MANAGER LLC, MIM ML-AI VENTURE 5 MANAGER LLC, MIM OMD MANAGER LLC, MIM PROPERTY MANAGEMENT LLC, MIM PROPERTY MANAGEMENT OF GEORGIA 1 LLC, MIM SPOKANE INDUSTRIAL MANAGER LLC, MIM THIRD ARMY INDUSTRIAL MANAGER LLC, MISSOURI REINSURANCE INC., ML 300 THIRD MEMBER LLC, ML ARMATURE MEMBER LLC, ML BELLEVUE MANAGER LLC, ML BELLEVUE MEMBER LLC, ML CAPACITACION COMERCIAL S.A. DE C.V., ML CERRITOS TC MEMBER LLC, ML CLAL MEMBER LLC, ML CORNER 63 MEMBER LLC, ML DOLPHIN GP LLC, ML DOLPHIN MEZZ LLC, ML HUDSON MEMBER LLC, ML MATSON MILLS MEMBER LLC, ML MILILANI MEMBER LLC, ML OMD MEMBER LLC, ML ONE BEDMINSTER LLC, ML PORT CHESTER SC MEMBER LLC, ML SENTINEL SQUARE MEMBER LLC, ML SLOANS LAKE MEMEBR LLC, ML SOUTHLANDS MEMBER LLC, ML SOUTHMORE LLC, ML SPOKANE INDUSTRIAL MEMBER LLC, ML SWAN GP LLC, ML SWAN MEZZ LLC, ML TERRACES LLC, ML THIRD ARMY INDUSTRIAL MEMBER LLC, ML VENTURE 1 MANAGER S. DE R. L. DE C.V., ML VENTURE 1 SERVICER LLC, ML-AI METLIFE MEMBER 1 LLC, ML-AI METLIFE MEMBER 2 LLC, ML-AI METLIFE MEMBER 3 LLC, ML-AI METLIFE MEMBER 4 LLC, ML-AI METLIFE MEMBER 5 LLC, ML-URS PORT CHESTER SC MANAGER LLC, MLIA MANAGER I LLC, MLIA PARK TOWER MANAGER LLC, MLIA SBAF COLONY MANAGER LLC, MLIA SBAF MANAGER LLC, MLIC ASSET HOLDINGS II LLC, MLIC ASSET HOLDINGS LLC, MLIC CB HOLDINGS LLC, MLJ US FEEDER LLC, MM GLOBAL OPERATIONS SUPPORT CENTER S.A. DE C.V., MMP CEDAR STREET OWNER LLC, MMP CEDAR STREET REIT LLC, MMP HOLDINGS III LLC, MMP OLIVIAN OWNER LLC, MMP OLIVIAN REIT LLC, MMP OWNERS III LLC, MMP OWNERS LLC, MMP SOUTH PARK OWNER LLC, MMP SOUTH PARK REIT LLC, MNQM TRUST 2020, MREF 425 MKT LLC, MSHDF HOLDCO I LLC, MSV IRVINE PROPERTY LLC, MTL LEASING LLC, MTU HOTEL OWNER LLC, NATILOPORTEM HOLDINGS LLC, NEWBURY INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED, OCONEE GOLF COMPANY LLC, OCONEE HOTEL COMPANY LLC, OCONEE LAND COMPANY LLC, OCONEE LAND DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LLC, OCONEE MARINA COMPANY LLC, OMI MLIC INVESTMENTS LIMITED, PACIFIC LOGISTICS INDUSTRIAL NORTH LLC, PACIFIC LOGISTICS INDUSTRIAL SOUTH LLC, PARK TOWER JV MEMBER LLC, PARK TOWER REIT INC., PJSC METLIFE, PLAZA DRIVE PROPERTIES LLC, PREFCO FOURTEEN LLC, PREFCO XIV HOLDINGS LLC, PROVIDA INTERNACIONAL S.A., SAFEGUARD HEALTH ENTERPRISES INC., SAFEGUARD HEALTH PLANS INC., SAFEHEALTH LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY, SOUTHCREEK INDUSTRIAL HOLDINGS LLC, ST. JAMES FLEET INVESTMENTS TWO LIMITED, SUPERIOR PROCUREMENT INC., SUPERIOR VISION BENEFIT MANAGEMENT INC., SUPERIOR VISION HOLDINGS INC., SUPERIOR VISION INSURANCE INC., SUPERIOR VISION INSURANCE PLAN OF WISCONSIN INC., SUPERIOR VISION OF NEW JERSEY INC., SUPERIOR VISION SERVICES INC., Safeguard Health Enterprises, Security First Group Inc., THE BUILDING AT 575 FIFTH AVENUE MEZZANINE LLC, THE BUILDING AT 575 FIFTH RETAIL HOLDING LLC, THE BUILDING AT 575 FIFTH RETAIL OWNER, THE DIRECT CALL CENTRE PTY LIMITED, TRANSMOUNTAIN LAND & LIVESTOCK COMPANY, UVC INDEPENDENT PRACTICE ASSOCIATION INC., VERSANT HEALTH CONSOLIDATIONS CORP., VERSANT HEALTH HOLDCO INC., VERSANT HEALTH INC., VERSANT HEALTH LAB LLC, VIRIDIAN MIRACLE MILE LLC, VISION 21 MANAGED EYE CARE OF TAMPA BAY INC., VISION 21 PHYSICIAN PRACTICE MANAGEMENT COMPANY, VISION TWENTY-ONE MANAGED EYE CARE IPA INC., Versant Health, WDV ACQUISITION CORP., WFP 1000 HOLDING COMPANY GP LLC, WHITE OAK ROYALTY COMPANY, WHITE TRACT II LLC, and Willing.

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The following companies are subsidiares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.: 2235158 Alberta Limited, A.J. Amer Agency, AHC Digital LLC, AIX Limited, AJG Coal LLC, AJG Financial Services LLC, AJG Meadows LLC, AJG North America ULC, AJG RCF LLC, AJGRMS of Louisiana LLC, ARM RE Ltda., AVIATION INSURANCE SERVICES, AVRECO, Ace IRM Insurance Broking Group, Acumus Holdings Limited, Acumus Interco Limited, Acumus Ltd, Adams & Associates International, Adaptive Marketing LLC, Adco General Corporation, Advanced Benefit Advisors, Aequus Trade Credit, Affinity Marketing Group, Ahrold Fay Rosenberg, Aires Consulting Group, Alesco Risk Management Services Limited, Alize Limited, Allied Claims Administration Inc., Alternative Market Specialists, Altman & Cronin Benefit Consultants, American Freedom Carriers Inc., American Security Services Corp., American Wholesalers Underwriting Ltd, Andrew-Anthony Insurance Agency, Anthony Hodges Consulting Limited, Antrobus Investments Limited, AquaSurance, Argentis, Argentis Financial Group Limited, Argentis Financial Management Limited, Argus Benefits, Armstrong/Robitaille/Riegle, Artex (SAC) Limited, Artex Cedar Hill, Artex Corporate Services (Malta) Limited, Artex Corporate Services Limited, Artex Holdings (Gibraltar) Limited, Artex Holdings (Malta) Limited, Artex Insurance (Guernsey) PCC Limited, Artex Insurance (Tennessee) PCCIC Inc., Artex Insurance Brokers (Malta) PCC Limited, Artex Insurance ICC Limited, Artex Intermediaries Ltd, Artex Risk Solutions (Bermuda) Ltd, Artex Risk Solutions (Cayman) Limited, Artex Risk Solutions (Gibraltar) Limited, Artex Risk Solutions (Guernsey) Limited, Artex Risk Solutions (International) Ltd, Artex Risk Solutions (Malta) Limited, Artex Risk Solutions (Singapore) Pte Ltd, Artex Risk Solutions (UK) Limited, Artex Risk Solutions Inc., Arthur J Gallagher (Norway) Holdings AS, Arthur J. Gallagher & Co., Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (AUS) Ltd, Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (Bermuda) Limited, Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (Illinois), Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Insurance Brokers of California Inc., Arthur J. Gallagher (Aus) Pty Ltd, Arthur J. Gallagher (Bermuda) Holding Partnership, Arthur J. Gallagher (Life Solutions) Ltd, Arthur J. Gallagher (Singapore) Pte Ltd, Arthur J. Gallagher (U.S.) LLC, Arthur J. Gallagher (UK) Limited, Arthur J. Gallagher Asesoria S.A.C., Arthur J. Gallagher Australasia Holdings Pty Ltd., Arthur J. Gallagher Brokerage & Risk Management Services LLC, Arthur J. Gallagher Broking (NZ) Limited, Arthur J. Gallagher Financial Services Professionals Risk Purchasing Group LLC, Arthur J. Gallagher Group Quebec ULC, Arthur J. Gallagher Holdings (UK) Limited, Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance Brokers Limited, Arthur J. Gallagher Latin America LLC, Arthur J. Gallagher Management (Bermuda) Limited, Arthur J. Gallagher Real Estate Risk Purchasing Group LLC, Arthur J. Gallagher Risk Management Services (Hawaii) Inc., Arthur J. Gallagher Risk Management Services Inc., Arthur J. Gallagher Risk Management Services of Utah Inc., Arthur J. Gallagher School Risk Purchasing Group LLC, Arthur J. Gallagher Service Company LLC, Arthur J. Gallagher Services (UK) Ltd, Ashmore & Associates Insurance Agency, Atlantic Risk Management Corp., Atrex Insurance (Cayman) SPC Limited, Avantek Pty Ltd, Axe Insurance PCC Limited, BIS Insurance Services, Baker - Tillys employment benefits solutions, Ballard Benefit Works, Bankers Financial Benefits, Barmore Insurance Agency, Behnke & Co. Inc., Bellisle Pty Ltd, Belmont Associates Consultants, Belmont Insurance Holdings Limited, Belmont International, Belmont International Limited, Benefit Development Group, Benefit Management Group, BenefitLink Resource Group, Benefits Planning & Insurance Agency, Benefits Unlimited, Bennett & Shade Co., Bergvall Marine, Bergvall Marine A.S., Besselman & Little Agency, Big Savings Insurance Agency Inc., Blenheim Park Ltd, Blenheim Park Services Limited, Blue Holdings Pty Ltd, Blue Horizon Insurance Services, Blue Water Benefits, BluePeak Advisors, Blueleaf Consulting Pty Ltd., Bluewater Incorporated Cell Insurance Company, Bollinger Inc., Bollinger Insurance Services Inc., Bowen Miclette Britt & Merry of Arkansas Inc., Brendis & Brendis, Brim AB, Broker Benefit Services, Brokerage Professionals, Brown Hobbs & McMurray Insurance, Bultman/Bell Associates Inc., Burkwald & Associates, Burns-Fazzi Brock & Associates, Bushong Insurance Associates, C&B Consulting Group, CGM Gallagher Insruance Brokers (Trinidad & Tobago) Limited, CJM Solutions Inc., CMA Solutions LLC, Cairnstone Financial, California Insurance Center, Capital Bauer Insurance Agency, Capitol Benefits Group, Capsicum CRLA LLP, Capsicum Re Brasil Participacoes Ltda, Capsicum Re Latin America Corretora De Resseguros Ltda, Capsicum Reinsurance Brokers Bermuda Limited, Capsicum Reinsurance Brokers Miami Inc., Carefree Marketing Inc., Carpenter Cammack & Associates, Cashan & Co., Castle Insurance Associates, Centennial Insurance Agency, Charity First Insurance Services Inc., Charles Allen Agency, Charter Lakes Insurance Agency, Chris Schroeder Insurance, Christie-Phoenix, Cintran Claims Canada Limited, Classic Insurance Services, Cleaveland Insurance Group, Cohen & Lord Insurance Brokers, Cohn Financial Group, Coleman Group Holdings Limited, Coleman Holdings Limited, College and University Scholastic Excess Risk Purchasing Group LLC, Commercial Insurance Brokers, Complete Benefit Alliance, Complete Financial Balance, Complete Financial Balance Pty Ltd, Consolidated Casualty Specialties LLC, Construction Risk Solutions, Contego Underwriting Limited, Contego Underwriting Ltd, Continental Excess & Surplus, Convergence Risk Services Ltd, Copper Mountain Assurance Inc., Cornwall & Stevens Co., Corporate Benefit Advisors, Corporate Life Consultants, Countrywide Accident Assistance Limited, Coverdell & Company Inc., Coverdell Canada Corporation, Cowles and Connell, Craig M. Ferguson & Co., Crist Elliott Machette Insurance Services, Crombie Lockwood (NZ) Limited, Davis-Poston & Associates, Denman Consulting Services, Detlefs Johnson & Partners, DiBrina Group, Dickinson & Associates, Discount Development Services L.L.C., Discovery Benefit Solutions, Dodson-Bateman & Co., Donald P. Pipino Co. Ltd., E. S. Susanin Inc., EHE Holdings LLC, EHS Holdings Limited, Elantis Premium Funding (NZ) Limited, Elantis Premium Funding Limited, Elite Benefits Insurance Marketing Services, Employee Benefits Analysis Corp., Employee Benefits of The Carolinas, Encore Insurance & Bonding, Everett James, Evolution Risk Services Limited, Evolution Technology Services Limited, Evolution Underwriting Group, Evolution Underwriting Group Limited, Evolution Underwriting Limited, Excel Insurance Services, FYI Direct Canada Corporation, FYI Direct LLC, Farallone Pacific Insurance Services, Fenchurch Faris Limited, Fidelity Benefits & Insurance Services, Financial Profiles Inc., Finergy Solutions Pty Ltd, First Agency, First Iowa Insurance Agency, First Premium Inc., First Premium Insurance Group, Fish & Schulkamp, Fishermans Insurance Services, Foley Healthcare Limited, Fortress Financial Solutions Pty Ltd, Fortress Insurance LLC, Foundation Strategies, Fox Lawson & Associates, Franklin-Case Agency LLC, Fraser MacAndrew Ryan Limited, Friary Intermediate Limited, Fuller & O'Brien, G.S. Chapman & Associates Insurance Brokers, G.S. Levine Insurance Services, GBS (Australia) Holdings Pty Ltd, GBS Administrators Inc., GBS Insurance and Financial Services Inc., GBS Retirement Services Inc., GBS Specialty Markets LLC, GGB Finance 1 Limited, GGB Finance 2 Limited, GGB Finance 3 Limited, GGB Finance 4 Limited, GPL Assurance, GPL Assurance Inc., Gabor Insurance Services, Gale Smith & Co. Inc., Gallagher (Bermuda) Insurance Solutions Ltd., Gallagher - Grace/Mayer Insurance Agency, Gallagher Bassett Aires Inc., Gallagher Bassett Canada Inc., Gallagher Bassett Insurance Services Ltd., Gallagher Bassett International Ltd., Gallagher Bassett NZ Pty Ltd., Gallagher Bassett Services Inc. , Gallagher Bassett Services Pty Ltd., Gallagher Bassett Services Workers Compensation Victoria Pty Ltd., Gallagher Benefit Services (Canada) Group Inc., Gallagher Benefit Services (Holdings) Limited, Gallagher Benefit Services Inc., Gallagher Benefit Services Management Company Limited, Gallagher Benefit Services Pty Ltd, Gallagher Benefits Consulting Limited, Gallagher Bomford Couch Wilson, Gallagher Burgess, Gallagher Canada Acquisition Corporation, Gallagher Caribbean Group Limited, Gallagher Clean Energy LLC, Gallagher Communications Limited, Gallagher Community Clinic RPG LLC, Gallagher Consulting Ltda, Gallagher Corporate Services LLC, Gallagher Coyle, Gallagher CyberRisk, Gallagher Energy Risk Services Inc., Gallagher Fiduciary Advisors LLC, Gallagher Holdings (UK) Limited, Gallagher Holdings Bermuda Company Limited, Gallagher Holdings Four (UK) Limited, Gallagher Holdings Three (UK) Limited, Gallagher Insurance Brokers (Barbados) Limited, Gallagher Insurance Brokers (St. Kitts & Nevis) Limited, Gallagher Insurance Brokers (St. Lucia) Limited, Gallagher Insurance Brokers (St. Vincent) Limited, Gallagher Insurance Brokers Jamaica Limited, Gallagher International Cash Management s.r.l., Gallagher International Holdings (US) Inc., Gallagher Investment Advisors LLC, Gallagher Inwest Group, Gallagher Koster, Gallagher Lambert Group, Gallagher Madison Risk & Insurance Services, Gallagher Mauritius Holdings, Gallagher Mississippi Brokerage LLC, Gallagher RE Colombia Ltda Corredores de Reaseguros SA, Gallagher Risk & Reward Limited, Gallagher Risk Group LLC, Gallagher Risk Placements Pty Ltd, Gallagher SKS, Gallagher Service Center LLP, Gallagher-Tarantino, Galtney Group, Game Day Insurance Inc., Gardner & White Corp., Gardner Marine Agency, Garza Long Group, Gatehouse Consulting Limited, Gault Armstrong Kemble Pty Ltd, Gault Armstrong SARL, Giles Group, Giles Holdings Limited, Giles Insurance Brokers, Gillis Ellis & Baker Inc., Goodman Insurance Agency, Grandy Pratt Co., Greenseed Alternative Mangaers Platform Ltd, Grossman & Associates, Group Benefits of Arkansas, Group Insurance Associates, Gruppo Marcucci, HLG Holdings Limited, HMG-PCMS Limited, HPF Investments LLC, HR Owen Insurance Services Limited, Hagan Newkirk Financial Services, Hagedorn & Company, Hardman & Howell Benefits, Harlequin Insurance PCC Limited, Hartstein Associates Inc., Healthcare Professionals Purchasing Group LLC, Healthcare Risk Solutions, Heath Lambert Group Ltd., Heath Lambert Limited, Heath Lambert Overseas Limited, Heiser Insurance Agency, Henderson Phillips Fine Arts Insurance, Herbruck Alder & Co., Heritage Insurance Brokers (CI) Limited, Hesse & Partner AG, Hesse Consulting, Hexagon ICC Limited, Hexagon Insurance PCC Limited, Hill Chesson & Woody, Hogan Insurance Services, Home & Travel Limited, Honour Point Limited, Horseshoe Corporate Services Ltd, Horseshoe Fund Services (Cayman) Ltd, Horseshoe Fund Services Ltd, Horseshoe Fund Services USA Inc., Horseshoe ILS Services UK Ltd, Horseshoe Insurance Advisors US LLC, Horseshoe Insurance Advisory Ltd., Horseshoe Insurance Services Holdings Ltd, Horseshoe Insurance Services Holdings US Inc., Horseshoe Management (Gibraltar) Limited, Horseshoe Management (Ireland) Ltd, Horseshoe Management Ltd., Horseshoe PCC Limited, Horseshoe Re Limited, Horseshoe Services (Cayman) Ltd, Horseshoe Services (Pty) Ltd, Horton Insurance Agency, Housing Authorities Services Risk Purchasing Group LLC, Human Resource Management Systems, I-Protect Underwriting Pty Ltd, IBIS Advisors, IBS Reinsurance Singapore Pte Ltd, ILS Fund Services Ltd., ISG International, ITI Solutions, Igloo Insurance PCC Limited, Independent Benefit Services, Independent Fiduciary Services, Ink Underwriting Agencies Limited, InsSync Group Pty Ltd, Inspire Underwriting Limited, Instrat Insurance Brokers, Instrat Insurance Brokers Pty Ltd, Instrat Integration Holdco Pty Ltd, Insurance Acquisitions Holdings Limited, Insurance Associates Inc., Insurance Dialogue Limited, Insurance Dialogue Ltd., Insurance Plans Agency, Insurance Plus Risk Purchasing Group LLC, Insurance Point, Insurance Risk Managers of Missouri Inc., Insure My Villa Limited, Insure Pty Ltd, Integrated Healthcare Strategies, InterNational Insurance Group, InterPacific Underwriting Agencies, Intermountain Financial Benefits, Interstate Insurance Underwriters, JPGAC LLC, James F. Reda & Associates, James R. Weir Insurance Agency, Jenkins and Associates, Joe E. Martin Inc., John P. Woods Co. Inc., Jones Brown, Jones Brown Group Inc., Jones Brown Insurance Solutions Inc., Joseph Distel, Joseph James & Associates Insurance Agency, Just Landlords Insurance Services Ltd, KDC Associates, KRW Insurance Agency, Kahl Insurance Services, Kaler Carney Liffler & Co. Inc., Kane Group - Insurance Management Operations, Kelly Financial, Kent Kent & Tingle and RBS, Keyser Benefits Corp., Kingspark Enterprises Pty Ltd, L&R Benefits, LSG Insurance Partners, Learn About Money Limited, Lewis & Associates Insurance Brokers, Leystone Insurance & Financial, Life Plans Unlimited, Lincoln Financial Management, Longfellow Financial, Lucas Fettes Limited, Lucas Fettes and Partners Limited, Lutgert Insurance, MA Underwriting Pty Ltd, MDM Insurance Associates, MG Advanced Coal Technologies-1 LLC, MGA Insurance Services, MRS Holdings Ltd., Madison Scott & Associates, Managed Healthcare Solutions, Mannequin Insurance PCC Limited, Marchetti Robertson & Brickell Insurance, Marine Insurance Service, Martin Gordon & Jones Inc., McDowall Associates Human Resource Consultants, McIntyre Risk Management, McLean Insurance Agency, McNeary, McPherson Benefits Group, McRory & Co., Mecacem Insurance SPC Ltd, MedInsights Inc., Melton Insurance Associates, Memberworks Canada LLC, Merit Insurance, Metcom Excess, Metzler Bros. Insurance, Meyers-Reynolds & Associates, Mid America Group, Midwest Surety Services, Mike Henry Insurance Brokers, Mike Henry Insurance Brokers Limited, Mike Henry Insurance Funding Limited, Miller Buettner & Parrott, Miller-Harrison Insurance Services, Milne Alexander Pty Ltd, Minvielle & Chastanet Insurance Brokers, Monument Insurance (NZ) Limited, Monument Llc, Monument Premium Funding Limited, Mortgage Insurance Agency, Murphy Consultants, Mutual Insurance Services, NationAir Aviation Insurance, National Administration Co., National Ethics Association, National Transportation Adjusters, Nelson/Monarch Insurance Services, Nicoud Insurance Services, NiiS/Apex Group Holdings, Nonprofit Insurance Risk Purchasing Group LLC, Noraxis Capital Corp, Nordic Forsakring & Riskhantering AB, North Alabama Insurance, Nourse Insurance Brokers, O'Gorman & Young, OAMPS (UK) Limited, OAMPS Gault Armstrong Pty Ltd, OAMPS Limited, OAMPS Special Risks Ltd, Offshore Market Placements Limited, Optimum Talent, Orb Financial Services, Orb Financial Services Limited, Osprey Insurance Brokers Limited, Oval Group, Oval Healthcare Limited, Oval Insurance Broking Limited, Oval Limited, Oval Management Services Limited, Oxygen Insurance Managers, P2 Group, PEN Insurance Management Advisors Ltd, PT IBS Insurance Broking Service, Pacific Insurance Agency, Palmer Atlantic Insurance, Palmer Atlantic Insurance Ltd, Palmer Atlantic Risk Services Ltd., Park Row Associates, Parkstar Enterprises Pty Ltd, Parmia Pty Ltd, PartnerSource, Pastel Holding (NZ) Company, Pastel Holdings Pty Limited, Pastel Purchaser (NZ) Limited, Pastel Purchaser Pty Limited, Pavey Group Holdings (UK) Limited, Pavey Group Holdings Limited, Pavey Group Limited, Pearson Dunn Insurance Inc., Pen Underwriting Canada Limited, Pen Underwriting Group Pty. Ltd., Pen Underwriting Limited, Pen Underwriting Pty Ltd, Persing Dyckman & Toynbee Inc., Personal Advice Services Pty Ltd, Petty Burton Associates, Pointer Insurance Agency, Portmore Insurance Brokers (Wilshire) Limited, Portmore Insurance Brokers Limited, Potter-Holden & Co., Powell Insurance Agency, Premier Insurance Services Inc., Premier Risk Services, Premium Finance Corporation, Preston-Patterson, ProSource Financial, Professional Agents Risk Purchasing Group LLC, Professional Claims Managers, Proinova AB, Proinova Agency AB, Pronto California Agency LLC, Pronto California General Agency LLC, Pronto Florida Claims LLC, Pronto Florida General Agency LLC, Pronto Franchise LLC, Pronto General Agency Ltd, Pronto General Agency Management LLC, Pronto Holdco Inc., Pronto Holding California LLC, Pronto Holding Florida LLC, Pronto Insurance Agency of Laredo Inc., Pronto Premium Finance LLC, Property & Commercial Ltd., Property Insurance Initatives Limited, Property and Commercial Limited, Protected Insurance Company, Protection Plan Association Inc., Protek Group Limited, Providium Consulting Group, Ptarmigan Underwriting Agency Limited, Ptarmigan Underwriting UK Limited, Purple Bridge Claims Management Limited, Purple Bridge Finance Limited, Purple Bridge Group Limited, Purple Bridge Investments Limited, Purple Bridge Online Services Limited, Purple Bridge Publishing Limited, Quantum Underwriting Solutions Limited, Quillco 226 Limited, Quillco 227 Limited, R. L. Youngdahl & Associates, R.G. Speno Inc., R.W. Scobie, RA Rossborough (Guernsey) Ltd., RA Rossborough (Insurance Brokers) Ltd, REGENCY Group inc., RGA Referencing Limited, RGA Underwriting Limited, RIL Administrators (Guernsey) Ltd., RJ Dutton Inc., RSM Insurance Services Limited, Reassurance Holdings Inc., Rebholz Insurance Agency, Reid Manson Ltd., Reimbursement Services, Rentguard Limited, Reward Management Limited, Reynolds & Rodar Insurance Group, Riley & Associates, Rio 587 Limited, Rio 588 Limited, Risk & Reward Group, Risk Management Partners Limited, Risk Placement Services Inc., Risk Planners, Risk Services (NW) Limited, Risk Services (NW) Ltd., Risk Solutions Group Limited, Robert A. Schneider Agency, Robert Keith & Associates, Roberts & Roberts Insurance Service, Robinson-Adams Insurance, Rossborough Healthcare International Ltd, Rossborough Insurance (IOM) Ltd., Rossborough Insurance Services Ltd. (Jersey), S. A. Freerks & Associates, SEG Insurance Ltd, SGB-NIA Insurance Brokers, SHILLING Ltd, SKANCO International, SMERI AB, SRS Underwriting Pty Ltd, Secure Enterprises Pty Ltd, Securitas Re, Sellers Group, Sentinel Indemnity LLC, Septagon Insurance PCC Limited, Shuford Insurance Agency, Sigma II Insurance Agency, Sinclair Billard and Weld Limited, Sobieski & Bradley, Solid Benefit Guidance, Spanjers Insurance Agency, Spataro Insurance Agency, Specialised Broking Associates, Specialty Risk, Stackhouse Poland, Stackhouse Poland Bidco Limited, Stackhouse Poland Group Limited, Stackhouse Poland Holdings Limited, Stackhouse Poland Midco Limited, Stackouse Poland Limited, Stanton Group, Stark Johnson & Stinson Inc., Steel Agency, Strata Solicitors Ltd, Strategic Health Plans Corp., Strathearn Insurance Brokers, Strathearn Insurance Brokers (Qld) Trading Trust, Strathern Insurance Group Pty Ltd, Strathern Integration Holdco Pty Ltd, Strathern Unit Trust, Strong Financial Resources, Summit Insurance Group, Sunday and Associates, Sunderland Insurance Services, Super Advice Corporate Services Pty Ltd, Taylor Benefits, Texas Insurance Agency, Texas Insurance Managers, The BeneTex Group, The Buchholz Planning, The Chapman Group, The Commonwealth Consulting Group, The Daniels Group Inc., The EHE Group LLC, The EHE Insurance Agency LLC, The Eagle Insurance Agency LLC, The Eriksen Group, The Forker Company, The Gleason Agency, The Great Lakes Agency, The HR Group, The Hawk Agency, The Human Capital Group, The Lance Group, The Levitt/Kristan Co., The MW Bagnall Company, The Old Greenwich Consulting Group, The Parks Johnson Agency, The Plus Companies Inc., The Presidio Group, The Producers Choice, The Rains Group, The Splinter Group, The Titan Group, The Treiber Group, The Woodsmall Companies Inc., Title & Covenant Brokers Ltd., Title Investments Limited, Tom Sherwin Insurance Agency, Total Reward Group, Total Rewards Group (Holdings) Limited, Towle Agency, Transwestern, Tri-State General Insurance Agency, Triad Insurance Agency, Triad USA, Tribeca Strategic Advisors, Trinder & Norwood, Trip Mate, Trissel Graham & Toole, Tropp & Co., Tudor Risk Services, Tyloma Holdings Limited, Uni-Care Inc., Unison Inc., Universico Group, Unoccupied Direct Limited, V2V Holdings LLC, VEBA Service Group, Vasek Insurance Services Limited, Velo ACU LLC, Velo Holdings Inc., Verbag AG., Vertrue LLC, Victory Insurance Agency, Vincent L. Braband Insurance, Vital Benefits, Voluntary Benefits Solutions, W. E. Kingsley Co. Inc., WM. W. George & Associates, Walker Taylor Agency, Welling Associates, Wesfarmers Insurance - Insurance Brokerage Operations, Western Benefit Solutions, White & Company Insurance, Whitehaven Insurance Group, William Gallagher Associates Insurance Brokers, William H. Connolly & Co., Williams Insurance Agency Inc., Williams-Manny Insurance Group, Winn & Company Insurance Brokers, Wischmeyer Benefit Partners, Woodbrook Underwriting Agencies, Woods & Grooms, WorkCare Northwest, Worksite Communications, Y. S. Liedman & Associates, YOA Capsicum Reinsurance Broker Limited, Zenor Limited, Zuber Insurance Agency, and e3 Financial.

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The following companies are subsidiares of TE Connectivity: 999 Arques Corp., ABB ENTRELEC terminal block business, ACC Telecommunications, ADC Chile Limitada, ADC Communications (SEA) Pte. Ltd., ADC Communications (UK) Holding Ltd., ADC Communications (UK) Ltd., ADC Communications Hong Kong Limited, ADC Telecommunications Equipment (Shanghai) Co., AMP Amermex, AMP Products Pacific Limited, AMP Taiwan B.V., AMP Trading B.V., AMP de Venezuela, Acalon Holdings Limited, Advanced Fiber Products LLC, Advanced Fiber Products Limited, Advanced Tube Technologies, AdvancedCath, AdvancedCath Technologies, Alpha Technics, American Sensor Technologies, Betatherm (R&D) Limited, Brantner Holding Company, Brantner and Associates, Butterfly Management SAS, C.S. Tyco Decisive Inc., C.S. Tyco Dependable Inc., C.S. Tyco Durable Inc., C.S. Tyco Reliance Inc., C.S. Tyco Resolute Inc., C.S. Tyco Responder Inc., CII Guardian International Limited, Cablotec GmbH, Carrier Kheops Bac SAS, Catheter and Disposable Technology, Celis Eletrocomponentes Ltda., Cima de Acuna S.A. de C.V., Clarebury Pty. Ltd., Codenoll Technology Corporation, Communication Expert International Investments Limited, Compagnie Deutsch Distribution SAS, Compagnie Deutsch SAS, Comtec Systeme GmbH, Connecteurs Electriques Deutsch SAS, Corcom, Corcom West Indies Limited, Cotsworks LLC, Creganna, Creganna Captial Holding Ireland Unlimited Company, Creganna Finance (US) LLC, Creganna Finance Ireland Limited, Creganna Luxembourg SARL, Creganna Medical Devices, Creganna Medical Pte. Limited, Creganna Medical Technology Unlimited, Creganna Medical s.r.l., Creganna Regulatory, Creganna Solutions Limited, Creganna Solutions Unlimited Company, Creganna Tactx Singapore Limited, Creganna Unlimited Company, Cregstar Bidco Limited, Critchley Group Limited, Crompton Instruments (South-East Asia) Pte. Ltd., Deutsch, Deutsch Connectors Hong Kong Limited, Deutsch Connectors Manufacturing (Shanghai) Co., Deutsch Connectors Trading (Shanghai) Co., Deutsch Finance SAS, Deutsch GB Limited, Deutsch Group SAS, Deutsch India Power Connectors (Pvt) Ltd, Deutsch Israel Ltd., Deutsch SAS, Deutsch Servicios S. de R.L. De C.V., Deutsch Subco Limited, Deutsch UK, F.A.I. Technology (Hong Kong) Limited, First Sensor, Grangehurst Enterprises Pty. Ltd., Hirschmann Car Communication, Hong Kong Sensors Technologies Limited, Howard A. Schaevitz Technologies, Intercontec Connector System (Shanghai) Co., Intercontec Produkt GmbH, Intercontect Pfeiffer Industrie-Steckverbindungen GmbH, Jaquet North America, Jaquet Technology Group AG, Kemex Holding Company, Kenabell Holding Limited, LADD Distribution LLC, LADD Distribution Limited, LSA, MEAS Asia Limited, MEAS Europe SAS, MEAS France SAS, MEAS Ireland (Betatherm) Limited, MEAS Norway AS, MEAS Shenzhen Limited, MEAS Switzerland S.a r.l., MEAS US Holding, MP&E, Measurement Specialties, Measurement Specialties (Chengdu) Ltd., Measurement Specialties (China) Ltd., Measurement Specialties (China) Ltd. Production Branch, Measurement Specialties Foreign Holdings LLC, Measurement Technology (Chengdu) Ltd., Medical Engineering & Design, MicroGroup, Morlynn Ceramics Pty. Ltd., Nikkiso-Therm Co., PT KRONE Indonesia, PT. Tyco Electronics Indonesia, Pfeiffer GmbH & Co KG, Pfeiffer Verwaltungs GmbH, Polamco, Polamco Limited, Potter & Brumfield de Mexico, Precision Interconnect LLC, Precision Subsea AS, Precision Wire Components, Precision Wire Holding Company, Produxx, RAYCHEM-RPG Private Limited, Raychem (HK) Limited, Raychem (Shanghai) Trading Ltd, Raychem China Limited, Raychem Dominicana S.A., Raychem Industries BVBA, Raychem International LLC, Raychem International Manufacturing LLC, Raychem Juarez, Raychem Limited, Raychem Ltd., Raychem Pacific Corporation, Raychem Saudi Arabia Limited, Raychem Shanghai Cable Accessories Ltd, Raychem Technologies Limited, Rochester Wire and Cable LLC, SEACON Advanced Products LLC, Seacon (Europe) Limited, Seacon Global Production, Seacon Produtos e Servicos Opticos e Eletricos Ltda., Sensitive Object, Servo Interconnect Limited, Shanghai CII Electronics Co., Shenzhen Century Man Communication Equipment Co., Sibas Electronics (Xiamen) Co., TCN Holding (Luxembourg) S.a.r.l., TE Connectivity (Barbados) SRL, TE Connectivity (Denmark) ApS, TE Connectivity (HKZ) Holding Limited, TE Connectivity (Kunshan) Company Limited, TE Connectivity (Netherlands) Holding S.a r.l. - Irish Branch, TE Connectivity (Schweiz) Management AG, TE Connectivity (Suzhou) Co., TE Connectivity Argentina S.R.L., TE Connectivity Australia Pty Ltd, TE Connectivity Colombia S.A.S., TE Connectivity Connectors (Suzhou) Co., TE Connectivity Distribution (Thailand) Limited, TE Connectivity EMEA Holding GmbH, TE Connectivity Germany GmbH, TE Connectivity HK Limited, TE Connectivity Holding International II S.a r.l., TE Connectivity Holding International II S.a r.l. Luxembourg (LU) Schaffhausen E-Finance branch, TE Connectivity Holding International II S.a r.l. Luxembourg (LU) Schaffhausen branch, TE Connectivity Holding International II S.a r.l. (Ireland Branch), TE Connectivity Holding International S.A., TE Connectivity Inc., TE Connectivity India Private Limited, TE Connectivity Investments Holding S.A., TE Connectivity Investments Holding S.A. Luxembourg (LU) Schaffhausen branch, TE Connectivity Ireland Limited, TE Connectivity LATAM Holding S.a r.l., TE Connectivity LATAM I S.a r.l., TE Connectivity LATAM II S.a r.l., TE Connectivity Limited, TE Connectivity MOG Europe S.a r.l., TE Connectivity MOG Holding S.a r.l., TE Connectivity MOG Inc., TE Connectivity MOG Sales GmbH, TE Connectivity Manufacturing (Thailand) Company Limited, TE Connectivity Manufacturing Sdn. Bhd., TE Connectivity Morocco SARL, TE Connectivity Nederland B.V., TE Connectivity Netherlands (Poland II) Cooperatief U.A., TE Connectivity Netherlands (Turkey) B.V., TE Connectivity Netherlands Cooperatief U.A., TE Connectivity Phoenix Optix Inc., TE Connectivity Seacon Phoenix Inc., TE Connectivity Sensors Germany GmbH, TE Connectivity Services India Private Limited, TE Connectivity Solutions GmbH, TE Connectivity South Africa Proprietary Limited, TE Connectivity Spain, TE Connectivity SubCom S.L.U., TE Connectivity SubCom Spain Holding S.L.U., TE Connectivity Technology Solutions Limited, TE Connectivity Tunisia Sarl, TE Connectivity ULC, TE Connectivity US Group Holding Inc., TE Connectivity Vietnam Holding Company Limited, TYCO Electronics Polska Sp.z.o.o., TYCO SUBMARINE SYSTEMS INC., TacPro, Tactx Medical, Taicang Speed & Spin Sensors Co., Taliq Taiwan Limited, Tappat Engineering Pty Ltd, TechDevice Costa Rica Limitada, TechDevice Holdings, TechDevice LLC, The Whitaker LLC, Transoceanic Cable Ship Company LLC, TyCom Holdings II SA, TyCom Networks (Peru) S.A., Tyco Electronics (AMP Korea) Malta Limited, Tyco Electronics (Dongguan) Ltd, Tyco Electronics (Gibraltar) Holding Limited, Tyco Electronics (Gibraltar) Limited, Tyco Electronics (Korea) Malta Limited, Tyco Electronics (Kunshan) Ltd, Tyco Electronics (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Tyco Electronics (Qingdao) Ltd., Tyco Electronics (Schweiz) Holding II GmbH, Tyco Electronics (Shanghai) Co., Tyco Electronics (Shenzhen) Co. Ltd., Tyco Electronics (Suzhou) Ltd., Tyco Electronics (Zhuhai) Ltd, Tyco Electronics AMP Guangdong Ltd, Tyco Electronics AMP Italia Products S.R.L., Tyco Electronics AMP Italia S.R.L., Tyco Electronics AMP Korea Co., Tyco Electronics AMP Manufacturing (S) Pte Ltd, Tyco Electronics AMP Qingdao Ltd., Tyco Electronics AMP Shanghai Ltd., Tyco Electronics Austria GmbH, Tyco Electronics Belgium EC BVBA, Tyco Electronics Brasil Ltda., Tyco Electronics Canada ULC, Tyco Electronics China (Gibraltar) Limited, Tyco Electronics Componentes Electromecanicos Lda., Tyco Electronics Corby Limited, Tyco Electronics Corporation, Tyco Electronics Czech s.r.o., Tyco Electronics Del Peru S.A.C., Tyco Electronics EC Trutnov s.r.o., Tyco Electronics EC Verwaltungsgesellschaft mbH, Tyco Electronics Eta Limited, Tyco Electronics Finance Alpha GmbH, Tyco Electronics Finance S.a r.l., Tyco Electronics Finland Oy, Tyco Electronics France SAS, Tyco Electronics Germany Holdings GmbH, Tyco Electronics Group S.A., Tyco Electronics Group S.A. (French Branch), Tyco Electronics Group S.A. (Ireland Branch), Tyco Electronics H.K. Limited, Tyco Electronics Hellas MEPE, Tyco Electronics Holding Corp., Tyco Electronics Holding France, Tyco Electronics Holding S.a r.l., Tyco Electronics Holdings (Bermuda) No. 7 Limited, Tyco Electronics Holdings (Bermuda) No. 7 Limited Taiwan Branch, Tyco Electronics Hong Kong Holdings No. 1 Limited, Tyco Electronics Hong Kong Holdings No. 2 Limited, Tyco Electronics Hong Kong Holdings No. 3 Limited, Tyco Electronics Hungary Termelo Kft, Tyco Electronics Idento, Tyco Electronics India (Gibraltar) Limited, Tyco Electronics Industrial Y Comercial Chile Limitada, Tyco Electronics Integrated Cable Systems LLC, Tyco Electronics Ireland Limited, Tyco Electronics Israel Ltd., Tyco Electronics Italia Holding S.r.l., Tyco Electronics Japan G.K., Tyco Electronics Lambda, Tyco Electronics Latin America Holding LLC, Tyco Electronics Manufacturing Singapore Pte Ltd, Tyco Electronics Mexico, Tyco Electronics Middle East FZE, Tyco Electronics Motors Ltd, Tyco Electronics NZ Limited, Tyco Electronics Netherlands (Germany Holding) S.a r.l., Tyco Electronics Netherlands (Gibraltar China) Cooperatief U.A., Tyco Electronics Netherlands (Gibraltar India) Cooperatief U.A., Tyco Electronics Netherlands (India) Cooperatief U.A., Tyco Electronics Netherlands Holding B.V., Tyco Electronics Norge AS, Tyco Electronics Philippines, Tyco Electronics Precision Engineering Ltd., Tyco Electronics Printed Circuit Group LP, Tyco Electronics RIMC Holding LLC, Tyco Electronics RUS OOO, Tyco Electronics Raychem GmbH, Tyco Electronics Raychem Korea Limited, Tyco Electronics SIMEL SAS, Tyco Electronics Saudi Arabia Limited, Tyco Electronics Services GmbH, Tyco Electronics Singapore Pte Ltd, Tyco Electronics Subsea Communications LLC, Tyco Electronics Svenska AB, Tyco Electronics Svenska Holdings AB, Tyco Electronics Technology (SIP) Co., Tyco Electronics Technology (SIP) Ltd., Tyco Electronics Tecnologias S. de R.L. de C.V., Tyco Electronics UK Holdings Ltd, Tyco Electronics UK Ltd., Tyco Electronics UK Ltd. (Kenya Branch), Tyco Electronics Ukraine Limited, Tyco Electronics Uruguay S.A., Tyco Electronics Verwaltungs GmbH, Tyco Electronics Wireless Systems B.V., Tyco Electronics de Venezuela, Tyco Elektronik AMP Ticaret Limited Sirketi, Tyco Global Networks Ltd., Tyco Iberia, Tyco International Services GmbH, Tyco Networks (Argentina) S.R.L., Tyco Networks (Italy) Srl, Tyco Networks (Netherlands) B.V., Tyco Networks Iberica, Tyco Submarine Systems, Tyco Submarine Systems C.A., Tyco Submarine Systems de Argentina S.A., Tyco Telecommunications Ltd., Wema Americas LLC, Wema Automotive System Private Limited, Wema Environmental Technologies (Shanghai) Co., Wema Environmental Technologies (Shenzhen) Co., Wema Environmental Technologies Ltd., Wema System AG, Wema System AS, Wema System Hong Kong Limited, Wema System Production and Distribution HK Limited, Xiamen Delixing Electric Equipment Businesss, and motec Montage GmbH.

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Corning Incorporated engages in display technologies, optical communications, environmental technologies, specialty materials, and life sciences businesses worldwide. The company's Display Technologies segment offers glass substrates for liquid crystal displays and organic light-emitting diodes used in televisions, notebook computers, desktop monitors, tablets, and handheld devices. Its Optical Communications segment provides optical fibers and cables; and hardware and equipment products, including cable assemblies, fiber optic hardware and connectors, optical components and couplers, closures, network interface devices, and other accessories. This segment also offers its products to businesses, governments, and individuals. Its Specialty Materials segment manufactures products that provide material formulations for glass, glass ceramics, crystals, precision metrology instruments, software; as well as ultra-thin and ultra-flat glass wafers, substrates, tinted sunglasses, and radiation shielding products. This segment serves various industries, including mobile consumer electronics, semiconductor equipment optics and consumables; aerospace and defense optics; radiation shielding products, sunglasses, and telecommunications components. The company's Environmental Technologies segment offers ceramic substrates and filter products for emissions control in mobile, gasoline, and diesel applications. The company's Life Sciences segment offers laboratory products comprising consumables, such as plastic vessels, liquid handling plastics, specialty surfaces, cell culture media, and serum, as well as general labware and equipment under the Corning, Falcon, Pyrex, and Axygen brands. The company was formerly known as Corning Glass Works and changed its name to Corning Incorporated in April 1989. Corning Incorporated was founded in 1851 and is headquartered in Corning, New York.
TransDigm Group Incorporated designs, produces, and supplies aircraft components in the United States and internationally. Its Power & Control segment offers mechanical/electro-mechanical actuators and controls, ignition systems and engine technology, specialized pumps and valves, power conditioning devices, specialized AC/DC electric motors and generators, batteries and chargers, databus and power controls, sensor products, switches and relay panels, hoists, winches and lifting devices, and cargo loading and handling systems. This segment serves engine and power system and subsystem suppliers, airlines, third party maintenance suppliers, military buying agencies, and repair depots. The company's Airframe segment provides engineered latching and locking devices, engineered rods, engineered connectors and elastomer sealing solutions, cockpit security components and systems, cockpit displays, engineered audio, radio and antenna systems, lavatory components, seat belts and safety restraints, engineered and customized interior surfaces and related components, thermal protection and insulation products, lighting and control technology, and parachutes. This segment serves airframe manufacturers, cabin system and subsystem suppliers, airlines, third party maintenance suppliers, military buying agencies, and repair depots. Its Non-aviation segment offers seat belts and safety restraints for ground transportation applications; electro-mechanical actuators for space applications; hydraulic/electromechanical actuators and fuel valves for land-based gas turbines; refueling systems for heavy equipment used in mining, construction, and other industries; and turbine controls for the energy and oil and gas markets. This segment serves off-road vehicle and subsystem suppliers, child restraint system suppliers, and satellite and space system suppliers; and manufacturers of heavy equipment. TransDigm Group Incorporated was founded in 1993 and is based in Cleveland, Ohio.
Le Collectif Cheikh Yassine a organise un certain nombre dactivites et de festivites pour les enfants de Gaza sous le theme  La joie des enfants de Gaza pour lAid . Ces activites ont commence le premier jour de lAid et continue jusquau 4eme jour de lAid dans la bande de Gaza.



Plusieurs activites, ont ete organisees parmi lesquelles : des competitions recompensees par des prix, des jeux, des animations et des chants presentes par un groupe ainsi que des distributions de cadeaux et daides financieres.




This Week at NASA: New Astronaut Spacesuits and More. NASA

When NASAs Commercial Crew Astronauts make their first trip to the International Space Station aboard Boeings Starliner spacecraft, theyll be outfitted in new custom-designed spacesuits.

Astronauts Eric Boe and Suni Williams tried on the new suits, which were unveiled Jan. 25. In addition to meeting NASAs requirements for safety and functionality, the new design weighs less and is more comfortable than earlier versions. Also, Expedition 52/53 News Conference, Cargo Ship Departs the ISS, 50th Anniversary of Apollo 1 Fire and more.
A trio of notable personalities found their way back to Woodbine Racetrack on Friday  a trainer, a driver and a Maple Leaf Trot-winning trotter.

Reinsman Jonathan Drury was back in action for the first time since finding his way to the sidelines in late November. The young driver, who underwent surgery on his shoulder, resurfaced at the Rexdale oval during Fridays qualifying races.

I was in an accident when I was younger, a school bus accident, and kind of landed on it. I got in an accident [racing] at Georgian Downs a long time ago and seemed to land on it. It just seems everything I do I kind of bang up that same spot, explained Drury. It was never really anything serious, but over time it got worse and worse. There was like a hook on the end of the bone in my shoulder and it was pinching all the tendons so, with wear and tear, my tendons became inflamed and there was less room for them to move and everything was just grinding away.

Drury, who won 131 races in 2016 and drove winners of more than $2.78 million in purse earnings, appeared in three of the qualifiers. He is slated to drive a pair of Carmen Auciello-trained trotters  Cash For Gold and Free Willy Hanover  on Monday evening at Woodbine Racetrack.

It was a longer stretch of inactivity  more than six years, in fact - on the WEG circuit for trainer Duane Marfisi, who qualified Australian import Our Sky Major N.

Marfisi, who has campaigned a number of stakes stars during his years of racing on Canadian soil, recently returned to the Great White North after a lengthy stint in New Zealand.

Another familiar face returning from a lengthy absence was 2012 Maple Leaf Trot winner, Mister Herbie.

The nine-year-old son of Here Comes Herbie-Independent Lassie was second in his qualifier  his first appearance since a qualifying victory at Mohawk Racetrack on July 19, 2016. The Jeff Gillis pupil last raced in a pari-mutuel event at Mohawk on September 15, 2014.

To view results for Friday's qualifiers, click the following link: Friday Results  Woodbine Racetrack.
The 28th edition of the OBrien Awards took place on Saturday, January 28. Check out dozens of photos and short videos taken during our live coverage.

The Standardbred Canada Industry Communications team provided live news and commentary on all the happenings from the Hilton Mississauga / Meadowvale Hotel throughout the night. Winners were announced through the live twitter feed below as they happened.

The whos who of the harness racing were on hand to receive their coveted OBrien bronzes. The awards are named in honour of the late Joe OBrien, a trainer-driver from Prince Edward Island who was highly regarded and a member of the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame.

Eighteen O'Brien Awards were given out for the 2016 racing season. Thirteen of these honour the premier horses over the past racing season including the most coveted trophy, Canada's Horse of the Year. The horse awards are divided by age, sex and gait. There are two finalists in all of the categories.

In addition there are five people awards, one each for Driver of the Year, Trainer of the Year, Armstrong Bros. Farm Breeder of the Year, the O'Brien Award of Horsemanship, and Future Star. In addition, three Media Excellence Awards and an award for Outstanding Groom will be doled out.

Standardbred Canada extends their congratulations to all of the evenings finalists!
In this week's Rewind Robert Smith adopts an "O'Brien Awards" theme. His piece presents a short reminiscence about the late Joe O'Brien and also includes some vintage photos from award nights long before the advent of the modern day get-togethers.

Tonight is a very special night on the calendar of Canadian Harness Racing. The very prestigious O'Brien awards will be handed out to a precious few owners, drivers, trainers and various others who have stood at the head of their class during the 2016 racing season. They have been privileged in some way to be associated with greatness. It is an honour that is not taken lightly and one that places the award receiver in very special company; for some it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Along with each award goes a trip into the long and colourful history of our sport.

Way back some 28 years ago in 1989, the O'Brien Awards were conceived and in 1990 the first group of recipients felt the thrill of holding one of these prestigious awards based on the 1989 season. Thankfully many of those folks are still with us; a goodly number are still actively involved, striving to add yet another trophy.

After a long and in-depth study, the name for these awards was chosen to commemorate an extremely great horseman named Joseph Cyril O'Brien. Mr. O'Brien passed away on September 24, 1984, obviously unaware that his name would live on in such a meaningful way. "Gentleman Joe" as he was often called, was a man of humble beginnings and the early lessons in life and horsemanship stayed with him forever. After leaving home at the age of 18 with just $6 in his pocket, he eventually molded himself into one of the sport's most memorable and accomplished performers.



Left: A very early photo of Joe O'Brien taken by famed harness racing photographer and Journalist Jerry Shively [Hoof Beats]. Right: Joe O'Brien is shown in the winner's circle following a victory at Lexington's Red Mile with Armbro O'Brien, a name with obvious inspiration. Joining him are owners Elgin and Vivian Armstrong. This trio were long-time friends in addition to their business relationship Left: A very early photo of Joe O'Brien taken by famed harness racing photographer and Journalist Jerry Shively [Hoof Beats]. Right: Joe O'Brien is shown in the winner's circle following a victory at Lexington's Red Mile with Armbro O'Brien, a name with obvious inspiration. Joining him are owners Elgin and Vivian Armstrong. This trio were long-time friends in addition to their business relationship

The following passage is a short excerpt from a previous Rewind written about Mr. O'Brien a couple of years ago.

"From the small dusty tracks of Prince Edward Island and other Maritime locales emerged not only a great horseman but an equally fine and upstanding man. From a time when a few dollars was considered a successful day's work to the pomp and frills of winning races like The Little Brown Jug and The Hambletonian came Joseph O'Brien, the ultimate professional. The decision to name Canada's top awards after him in harness racing  was a fitting choice and one that will surely stand the test of time. It is based on his overall superb combination of talent, endurance and lifetime dedication to his chosen profession."



The first ever O'Brien award was presented to Ilene O'Brien, the widow of Joe O'Brien on the evening of January 20, 1990 at the inaugural gathering. Doing the presentation is Stan Bergstein, harness racing icon. The awards now in their third decade seem to grow in stature year after year. The first ever O'Brien award was presented to Ilene O'Brien, the widow of Joe O'Brien on the evening of January 20, 1990 at the inaugural gathering. Doing the presentation is Stan Bergstein, harness racing icon. The awards now in their third decade seem to grow in stature year after year.

The following is a random collection of old presentation photos at various functions in the years prior to the advent of the now famous O'Brien Award galas. Following the photos is a short description of the history behind the presentation of trophies.



Max Webster (centre) representing the O.R.C. makes a presentation to the sport's top two drivers Gilles LaChance (left) and Ron Feagan in this 1968 photo. Feagan led the nation with 213 wins, LaChance had 206, both considered huge numbers back then. Max Webster (centre) representing the O.R.C. makes a presentation to the sport's top two drivers Gilles LaChance (left) and Ron Feagan in this 1968 photo. Feagan led the nation with 213 wins, LaChance had 206, both considered huge numbers back then.





The family of Dr. Glen Brown are shown as the great mare Fan Hanover is honoured with a trophy in this 1982 scene. From left: Kim Sawatsky (family friend) daughter Lynne Brown, Gord Sherwin representing O.H.H.A., Dr. Glen Brown, Mrs. Pat Brown, daughter-in-law Emily Brown and Glen's son, her husband Jim Brown (in back) and front right are Pat's sister Gwen and her husband Bob Munro [Harness Horse] The family of Dr. Glen Brown are shown as the great mare Fan Hanover is honoured with a trophy in this 1982 scene. From left: Kim Sawatsky (family friend) daughter Lynne Brown, Gord Sherwin representing O.H.H.A., Dr. Glen Brown, Mrs. Pat Brown, daughter-in-law Emily Brown and Glen's son, her husband Jim Brown (in back) and front right are Pat's sister Gwen and her husband Bob Munro [Harness Horse]



Wm. Galvin, long-time O.J.C. Publicity personality, presents an award to horseman Wm. Wellwood and his wife Jean in this shot taken around 1970. Wm. Galvin, long-time O.J.C. Publicity personality, presents an award to horseman Wm. Wellwood and his wife Jean in this shot taken around 1970.



At the 1973 C.T.A. Awards dinner in Toronto. The connections of Jambo Barb accept the three-year-old trotter award from 2nd V.P. James LeLacheur of Edmonton on the far left, next is Donald Richardson, John Rowe and trainer-driver and co-owner Ray Ellicott on the far right. The filly was a seven-time winner and banked $34,613 in a Canadian campaign. At the 1973 C.T.A. Awards dinner in Toronto. The connections of Jambo Barb accept the three-year-old trotter award from 2nd V.P. James LeLacheur of Edmonton on the far left, next is Donald Richardson, John Rowe and trainer-driver and co-owner Ray Ellicott on the far right. The filly was a seven-time winner and banked $34,613 in a Canadian campaign.



On the left George Feagan, co-owner of H. A. Meadowland p, 3, 1:58 2/5 with his grandson, Ron, receives the CTA Three-Year-Old Pacer of the Year silver tray from John J. Mooney of the Ontario Jockey Club, Ltd. This award was earned during the 1967 season, now 50 years ago. On the left George Feagan, co-owner of H. A. Meadowland p, 3, 1:58 2/5 with his grandson, Ron, receives the CTA Three-Year-Old Pacer of the Year silver tray from John J. Mooney of the Ontario Jockey Club, Ltd. This award was earned during the 1967 season, now 50 years ago.

A short note about the presentation of trophies in horse racing, from the writings of Daniel Denton found in an English newspaper following a visit to America.

The awarding of silver objects in North American horse racing is believed to date back to around 1668. This first silver cup referred to as a porringer (the dictionary describes a porringer as a small shallow bowl) is on display to this day at Yale University. While this was for thoroughbred races, the same practice was later adopted by harness racing.

The following short passage describes the circumstances under which the initial silver cup was awarded at what is believed to be America's first racecourse called "Newmarket Course" located near Hempstead, New York. This was not far from the eventual location of the fabled Roosevelt Raceway.

"Toward the middle of the island lieth a plain sixteen miles long and four broad, where you will find neither stick nor stone to hinder the horses' heels, or endanger them in their races. And once a year the best horses in the land are brought hither to try their swiftness. The swiftest are rewarded with a silver cup."
Many horses have a difficult time adjusting to racing as four-year-olds. So to compile an O'Brien Award-worthy campaign at four is noteworthy. It's even more notable when that four-year-old steps up with an 11-race win streak after a less-than-stellar sophomore season.

Musical Rhythm won 12 of 21 starts and purses exceeding $361,000 for trainer Ben Baillargeon, who co-owns the five-year-old with Santo & Nunzio Vena and Claude Hamel. The son of Cantab Hall is a finalist in the Older Trotting Horse category along with Flanagan Memory, and the winner will be announced on Saturday night as Standardbred Canada presents the 28th annual OBrien Awards at the Hilton Mississauga / Meadowvale Hotel in Mississauga, Ont.

Musical Rhythm swept both the General Brock Trotting Series and the Don Mills Trotting Series in 2016 and also won a leg and the final of the Graduate during his successful four-year-old campaign.

"It was very successful for a horse we bought at Harrisburg for $33,000," Baillargeon told Trot Insider. "I didn't really think he was that good, but I thought he was a good horse. He's been a nice surprise.

"He got tired at the end of the year, but that's normal. He never had a break between three and four, he kept racing. It's been nothing but great. He made almost $400,000 with the exchange."

As good as Musical Rhythm was for his connections in 2016, Baillargeon actually expects an improved horse to compete in the Grand Circuit stakes events this coming season.

"I think he's going to be a hell of a horse this year. We gave him a good break this winter, he's back training -- he's in 2:30 right now -- and he should qualify around March 15, third week of March, somewhere around there," noted the veteran trainer. "We'll have him staked and we'll see if we can go with the big boys this year. He's a five-year-old this year so he should be better. He got bigger, he looks like a stud now...very pleased with him."

It's hard not to be pleased with a horse that earns nearly 11 times his purchase price, and rattles off 16 wins in the first 20 starts he makes for his proud new owners.

"We won 11 races in a row, in one span he won seven in 1:53 or better. I was really glad when he won the leg of the Graduate there at Mohawk on his home turf, and I was more glad when he won the final in the States from the 10 hole. He raced awful tough that day, a huge effort with two or three moves to win in 1:51."

Baillargeon gave himself a modest pat on the back for Musical Rhythm's breakout year while praising his team for helping handle a horse that can be more than a handful.

"I think I managed him pretty good and my daughter Sara takes good care of him. She follows him everywhere," said Baillargeon. "He's a bit of a handful as a stud and we have to keep an eye on him all the time, he gets a little 'rammy' in the stall. It's all about managing."

Managing is key to being a successful trainer, and that also deals with managing expectations. Given Musical Rhythm's year, Baillargeon admits that he wasn't surprised to learn his trotter was a divisional finalist.

"I thought I would get the call. Maybe more my daughter than me because I'm not the type to pay attention to those things very much but it's very nice.

"This horse, eveybody liked him. He was a fan favourite all summer. When this horse raced, it was amazing the number of people that came just to see this horse."

A nominee in past years with horses the likes of Murmur Hanover, Slip Into Glide, Voelz Hanover and Yursa Hanover, Baillargeon is looking forward to Saturday night's black tie gala and is eager to 'break his maiden' at the O'Briens.

"We'll be there, me and my three partners -- Claude, Santo and Nunzio with the wives. It's a nice party. I've been there a few times, I've been nominated a few times and I always end up on the short end of the stick but maybe this time we'll be lucky."

For a full list of 2016 O'Brien Award finalists, click here. For details about the Black Tie Gala, click here.
Tom Kirwan, a former trainer/driver who spent nearly 30 years as the stall superintendent at The Meadows, passed away on Friday at the age of 70.

Kirwan, of Meadow Lands, Pennsylvania, was the grandson of Michael J. Kirwan, a long-time United States Senator from Youngstown, Ohio. Tom was raised by his parents, John and Ruth, in the Washington, DC area.

In the fall of 1964, at the age of 18, Tom came to Western Pennsylvania to visit his aunt and uncle, Michael and Jewel Kirwan. During that visit, the Kirwans took a trip to The Meadows for an evening of harness racing, and Tom was hooked.

Through an ad in the newspaper, he discovered that trainer George Beinhauer was looking for barn help, and he took his first job as a caretaker soon after.

Flaky, as Tom was known, worked for the Beinhauer Stable for several years, living at the Beinhauers Von Valley Farm. He started driving horses in 1966 at The Meadows and around the Pennsylvania fair circuit.

In 1976, he took a job for horse owner Ed Ryan, who was starting his own stable after racing horses with Beinhauer.

Kirwan became the Ryan Stables main trainer and driver. During the 1970s through the early 1980s, he drove 453 winners and was one of the Meadows leading drivers.

In the late 1980s, when Ryan was a co-owner of The Meadows, Kirwan transitioned from the barn to the race office. He took over as the tracks stall superintendent, a position he held for three decades until his retirement in 2015.

Away from the track, Tom loved cheeseburgers and playing poker.

He is survived by his wife, Sharon, who works in the paddock at The Meadows, and his mother, Ruth, along with three sisters and six brothers.

Funeral arrangements are not yet available.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Tom Kirwan.
My crystal ball CB said that the war in Ukraine will end by March 2023. Why? - Ukraine does not want to continue fighting, as most of thei...
By Daisy Handfield

FLOYD Seymour, the new interim CEO for the National Health Insurance Board (NHIB) said during his tenure he will be looking at improving the governing structure of the institution, and he will introduce policies that will make it run more efficiently.





This was said during an interview with this publication on Tuesday (January 17, 2017).





He said: "I think it is important for us to always continue to look at opportunities to reduce healthcare cost and to manage our patient care as best as we can. I think our staff here does a great job, but I just want us to continue to look at opportunities for improvement while I am here. Hopefully, we are able to do a better job at managing the resources that we have to ensure that we continue to provide the best possible healthcare for insured persons; for the citizens and residents of this country.





Mr Seymour, who is a former leader of the PDM, will serve until the beginning of February and has taken over the position from acting CEO Tamara Robinson, who occupied the post since a number of staff issues came to light last year.





"I was asked to come to the National Insurance office by the Government because the then interim CEO had other conflicting obligations that did not permit her to continue on in this role as interim CEO. Throughout my life I have always been someone willing to offer my service and this here is a continuation of what I have done throughout my life. I have always wanted to see our country grow and I have always wanted to see our country be better, and wherever my skills are needed or wherever my skills are requested, I would always make myself available, Seymour said.





He added that the NHIB is a company that is made up diverse people and diverse talents.





The new interim CEO believes that the people in the organization have displayed a clear desire to see the organization prosper and continue into posterity.





Staff sickout

The former director, Zaneta Burton, was relieved of her duties amid calls for her termination and sit-outs by staff members.





Reportedly, there was a breakdown between staff and management, but this was only some of the critical matters facing the health scheme.





Last year, staff of NHIP had a two-day sick out, as they took matters into their own hands to express their disapproval with the management.





This publication learned that when the staff stood their grounds, CEO Burton was put on leave until January 3, pending investigations by a select committee.





While she was gone, Deputy Secretary Tamara Robinson was assigned to the body to oversee the day to day operations.





Seymours background

Interim CEO Floyd Seymour was born and raised in Grand Turk on January 7, 1969. He is the son of late Electrical Commissioner, Eric T. Seymour and teacher Gladys Seymour.





He received his primary education at the Ona Glinton Primary School and high school education at the HJ Robinson High School in Grand Turk before pursing tertiary education in the United States of America.





He attended The Turks and Caicos High School in Grand Turk, Bethune Cookman College in Daytona Beach, where he obtained his first degree, and Florida International University in Miami where he obtained his Masters Degree in Accounting and an advanced certificate in Internal Audit.








WORK has already started to attempt to resolve the years-long contentious relationship between Carnival Cruise and local vendors in Grand Turk.





This is according to the Premier Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson during a press conference in Providenciales on Wednesday (January 18).





The Premier said that one of the pressing issues for her government in Grand Turk  where the new government held its first town hall style meeting  is to properly and successfully address the contentious relationship between Carnival and the vendors.





"We have had a very successful meeting [with vendors], we had strong attendance. We believe that we reached a wonderful place actually, where both government and vendors realize and appreciate the importance of the cruise ship industry to the island of Grand Turk.





"And I am pleased to report that I will also be sitting with Carnival members on Monday (January 23) to address a way forward.





The Premier noted that it is critical that they resolve some of the issues that have been brewing for a long time. Some of these issues, she said, relates to interactions between vendors and guests, and vendors and carnival operators.





Meanwhile, she said that her government has also reviewed the Grand Turk master plan and are now looking at projects that they can fund through the infrastructure fund (a joint fund between Carnival and Government).





Cartwright-Robinson noted that through the fund her government hopes to transform Grand Turk, making it the island that will pull the TCIs international ratings back up, and increase cruise ship numbers, which are in decline. (DELANA ISLES)




BY OLIVIA ROSE & DAISY HANDFIELD

THE BODIES of 12 Haitian migrants were discovered in the Turks and Caicos Islands Tuesday January 25, where a search for survivors and possibly more casualties is expected to resume on Wednesday.





The morbid scene of dead bodies -- eight females and four males -- were reportedly submerged in the sand, some scantily clad, others naked, with muscles stiffened in rigor mortis has caused widespread melancholy among locals.





The gruesome images of bodies washed ashore, torn and bitten has erupted an outcry for citizens and the governments on both ends to do more to put an end to human trafficking.





Police found at least five of the bodies ashore after being called at 6:34 a.m. on Tuesday January 25, to a secluded area of Providenciales. Informants reported that people were seen "running into the bushes at Northwest Point," according to Police Force spokesman, Kevin Clarke.





Immigration and police officers were immediately dispatched, and the U.S. Coast Guard was also called in to help with a massive search."We know there are survivors, but none has been captured by the police," Clarke said.





A small fishing boat, painted in the blue and red colours of the Haitian flag, was seen capsized on the beach. Clarke said police officers have yet to confirm that it is the boat on which the migrants traveled.





"It's a very small boat," he said. "We still don't know how many persons came."It is unclear how the migrants may have died, but the waters off the island's northwest point can be treacherous, especially during bad weather like the kind the islands experienced Tuesday morning.





Because of it dense foliage and seclusion, Northwest Point has become a favourite landing site for illegals.





A high level national security meeting was convened early Wednesday morning to address the issue of illegal immigration in the TCI.





Governor John Freeman; Premier Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson, Deputy Premier and Minister responsible for Boarder Control Sean Astwood and Police Commissioner James Smith held a press conference at the Hilly Ewing building in Providenciales.





The press conference started with a moment of silence for those who lost their lives and for those that are still missing.





Governor Freeman expressed condolences to the family of the victims and said he grieved with the family of those who are still missing.





"I want to underline that all that can be done is being done to respond effectively and humanely to the tragedy that has visited this countrys shores.





"I want to also commend the work of the Police, Immigration officials, and other emergency services engaged in the response. I would also like to express thanks to the assistance provided by the US Coast Guard.





The Governor pointed out that there were significant consequences to this tragedy, including the role of traffickers, in putting individuals at risk.





He said that these matters require continued vigilance and action from the part of Government.





Premier Cartwright-Robinson also offered her condolences to the people of Haiti and the Haitian community in the TCI.





The Premier used the opportunity to appeal to the Haitian community to consider seriously the risk of losing lives.





"This experience must remind this community of the dangerous journey between our countries. It also brings again to national dialogue the matter of human trafficking.





"The truth is someone profits from this dangerous voyage with reports of persons paying large sums of monies for an opportunity for the life that is sold to them.





"This cannot be tolerated and we as a new Government will take bold steps to address what has become a serious concern for us as a people.





"We reiterate the statement made by this country when we passed the anti-human trafficking laws: we will not and cannot tolerate this practice and will do what we must to ensure those engaged in this criminal activity are dealt with to the fullest extent of the law.





The Premier added that residents of the TCI must also use this opportunity to speak to those living in the Turks and Caicos Islands who encourage persons to take this illegal and dangerous journey.





"This experience again must encourage you to reconsider your role. We have in recent years detained those who have entered illegally who have come to shore with local numbers for relatives and friends.





"I wish to remind you that encouragement or harboring of these illegal landings and illegal immigrants is against the laws of the land, she said.





Minister of Border Control and Immigration, Sean Astwood stated that the Government will work closely with the Haitian consul and the Haitian community, in an effort to combat human trafficking and illegal immigration.





"There are a number of sectors in the country that we are all aware of that can help us and we have to properly engage them and get them through the education process to understand the negative effects of this.





"While the loss of life is the major issue that we are dealing with today, in the future I am sure that we will have to [educate them]. The normal situation that happens out of human trafficking and situations like these is that we have to really get the community involvedIt has to be a major part of the solution.





Minister Astwood said that the process of tackling the issue of illegal immigration will be discussed during the National Security Council Meeting on Thursday (January 26, 2017).





Illegal migration from Haiti is one of the Turks and Caicos Islands biggest challenges, Dozens of Haitians have died in similar accidents in recent years, as many seek to escape their economically depressed situation from an island still reeling from the devastating 2010 earthquake.





In November last year, at least 30 Haitian migrants drowned when their overloaded boat capsized off the southern Bahamas. Eleven Haitian migrants died in June 2012 when a boat carrying 28 people from the Bahamas to Florida sank.
FOLLOWING a visit to Her Majestys Prison (HMP) in Grand Turk, the premier has committed to resolving some of the issues being experienced there and to upgrade the facility.





Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson, flanked by her government ministers, told the media last week that she was disheartened at the conditions of the countrys sole penal facility after a recent visit.





She said that her government is looking now at the security concerns at the facility as well at areas where they can make the jail more habitable with a number of upgrades.





"We are committed to restructuring the programmes at the prison and even looking at the physical presence there.





"I am disheartened everything I go there because I do believe the United Nations would have some concerns at the way we keep our prisoners.





She also recalled that the HMP has already been cited, as such her government is looking to bring the facility up to acceptable standards.





"We want to ensure that we treat our prisoners as they should be treated so that they will feel that it is somewhere that they are being rehabilitated and not somewhere where they are just punished, and that they are able to return to society and become productive citizens, the Premier said. (DELANA ISLES)




BY OLIVIA ROSE

A MOTHER`S deafening outcry on social media has prompted the local police force to dig deeper into the gruesome murder of Kevino "BahSmith.





Friday, March 4, 2017, will make it two years since 25-year old Smith went missing after a reported heated confrontation.





Smiths dismembered remains were found in Breezy Brae, Grand Turk in late April 2015 following an aggressive police search effort.





And it was in July that police finally confirmed that those remains discovered were indeed young Smith.





There has since been a personal appeal to the Governor, the Premier and a protest by family members in the case.





And it was in July that police finally confirmed that the remains discovered were indeed young Smith`s remains.





Smiths grief-stricken mother Patti Smith is still crying out for justice as the killer is yet to be found.





His mother and other relatives and friends have recently taken to social media to express their frustration with the seemingly slothful investigations into his murder.





In an exclusive interview with the Weekly News a few months ago his mother said: "From the 4th of March until today I haven`t heard anything, any updates or nothing about his death from the police.





A reliable source from the Police department informed this news publication that the police are still gathering intel in Grand Turk on the case.





Subsequent to the discovery of his body, several suspects have been arrested on suspicion and some are currently on bail for numerous offences which includes murder, conspiracy to commit murder and perverting the course of justice.





The police, in a statement on their facebook page, declared said: "We are determined to establish what happened to Kevino and how he came to lose his life, which we hope will bring some closure and small comfort to his family.





"The police are aware that there are persons within the Grand Turk communities who may have vital information which can assist the investigation. We, therefore, appeal to you to come forward with any information that you may have, the release said.





The police noted that the renewed enquiries by police are the first of many that will be conducted on the island of Grand Turk to find the persons responsible for this crime.





Anyone with information surrounding Kevino Smiths murder, location or any information relevant to this investigation is asked to call the Royal Turks & Caicos Islands Police Force at 911 or 941-4448 extension 81843 or 81837 or use the untraceable, anonymous Crime Stoppers Miami number at 1-800(TIPS) or 1-800-8477.





No names or numbers are requested, and only the information provided is passed on to the Royal Turks & Caicos Islands Police Force.




BY OLIVIA ROSE

A PRELIMINARY assessment is being conducted to determine the state of the Mega One Triton wreck on Governors Beach, Grand Turk.





The vessel, which has become an eyesore, disabled and anchored off Government Dock in the capital, was eventually grounded at Governors Beach during the passage of hurricane Sandy in October 22, 2002.





The vessel started life as a tender vessel supplying offshore oilrigs and there was about 190 litres of fuel on board and around 150 litres of motor oil when it became grounded.





After it was decommissioned and sold to a retired captain, the ship supplied the Turks and Caicos Islands with building materials from the Dominican Republic for more than 20 years.





Since then the vessel has been lying at anchor just off Governors Beach ever since, and appeared to be an accident waiting to happen.





According to a release from the Government on January 9, CWaves, a UK-based Maritime and Engineering Consultancy, conducted an initial assessment and proposed a range of options to be considered for the safe and efficient removal of the wreck from Governors Beach in an environmentally friendly manner.





Commenting on the assessment, Minister of Tourism, Hon. Ralph Higgs said; "I am grateful for the assistance of CWaves and their input which will help with the removal of Mega One Triton, which has become unsightly on one of our most popular beaches over the years. My Government stands firm on seeing the removal of this impediment in a timely manner.





This consultancy was awarded to CWaves following a tender process, and is funded by the UK Government. CWaves will be responsible for developing the Invitation to Tender for contractors in collaboration with TCIG, and for overall management of the project through to completion.





Members of the public are being advised to refrain from climbing on or entering the wreck due to the deterioration in its condition, and potential exposure to hazardous substances remaining on board.





On January 28, 2013, the Government charged the vessels agents, due to the absence of the owner, Ked Megnath.





Four people were charged with various offences under the National Parks, Coastal Protection and Marine Pollution Ordinances.





As reported previously, the safeguards to be put in place prior to the vessels removal to protect the local environment include: The removal of several thousand gallons of contaminated water and fuel that if released into the environment during the removal, pose the most significant environmental threat.





Specialized equipment must be employed to skim the petroleum-based contaminants from the surface of the water in an effort to remove the most hazardous of materials.





The remainder of the water must be pumped and transported to an upland location for safe disposal.





At the same time that toxic fluids are being removed, oil booms and turbidity curtains must be deployed to contain any potential spills.





After all fluids have been safely removed, one of the above two options will be employed to safely remove the vessel.








BY DELANA ISLES





PRISONERS in Her Majestys Prison are reportedly very upset at the parole board for their sloth in issuing the release of eligible parolees and in the number parole hearings that are being held per year.





Information reaching the Weekly News this week is that there is now unrest brewing within the prison walls by prisoners whose parole applications are not being heard according to law.





A relative of one of the prisoners  who chose to remain anonymous  said that her relative has already had a parole hearing since last year and that to date (months after) they cannot receive any word from the board as to the status of his application for early release.





She said that the law should require that eligible parolees know within a reasonable time whether their release has been approved or denied and not have to wait months before they know their fate.





Sources close to the prison told this publication that the prisoners rights are being violated as the parole board has not been considering prisoners applications in a timely manner or sometimes not at all for several months.





There is supposed to be at least three or more board meetings per year and for several years they have been only having one meeting per year, information obtained by the Weekly News revealed.





From 2011 to 2016 there have only been one parole meeting per year, with none so far this year.





Many of these applicants and their families, who are in fear of being victimized if they speak publicly, feel that their constitutional rights are being violated.





As obtained by this publication the board members are as follows - Frederick Braithwaite, Chairman; Elva Williams, Marie Carter, Caroline Dickerson and Steve Barret, the prison superintendent.





Efforts to reach the superintendent  whom this paper has been told is trying his best to assist the prisoners in their applications  were unsuccessful up to press time.





However, reports are that the prisoners have written the new Premier and the subject minister as well as the new governor about their dilemma.





Weekly News will follow up on this story further in a subsequent issue.




BY OLIVIA ROSE

THE WINDWARD Development Company is now the new managers of the Blue Cay Estate, the developers newest waterfront villa community on Providenciales.





This comes as the Grace Bay Resorts announced on Thursday January 19th a partnership with Windward Development Company to direct Blue Cay Estate`s operations.





Blue Cay Estate is slated to complete its first villas in mid-2017, which will feature four beachfront villas and twelve canal front villas developed with four or five-bedroom layouts.





The villas will boast sleek contemporary architecture by Blee Halligan from London.





Speaking at the press conference Nikheel Advani , Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Principal of Grace Bay Resorts said : "We are delighted to welcome Blue Cay Estate to our award-wining portfolio of luxury resorts and villas in the Turks and Caicos.





He noted that: "Through this partnership, guests of Blue Cay Estate will have access to Grace Bay Resorts unparalleled level of quality service and personalized attention to detail.





Advani reminded the public that only four villas remain available for sale in the development. Meantime, Developer of Windward Development Company, Ivor Stanbrook said: "Blue Cay Estate provides its owners a unique combination of a stunning location and architectural excellence.





"It only seemed fitting for us to add an unparalleled service portfolio to that winning formula. Grace Bay Resorts has established itself on an international basis, far beyond the reaches of our shores.





"We are very pleased to be able to extend that benefit on to our villa owners and we expect this to be only the first joint project within this partnership.





The partnership is expected to create a variety of local employment opportunities over the coming years, both on and off of the Blue Cay Estate.





It is also expected to offer employees the opportunity for career advancement into dedicated leadership positions within the companys growing villa management division, known as the Private Villa Collection.





Blue Cay Estate is the third micro resort included in Grace Bay Resorts expanding Private Villa Collection brand.





Additional villa offerings include The Residences, a trio of freestanding private beachfront homes with interiors by designer Thom Filicia, and The Dunes, a pair of contemporary beachfront villas located in Turtle Cove on Smiths Reef.





Grace Bay Resorts also operates the ultra luxury Grace Bay Club resort and the boutique luxury West Bay Club resort, both located on award winning Grace Bay Beach in Turks & Caicos.





The Blue Cay Estate maximizes the indoor-outdoor living experience in each villa and generous outdoor spaces foster a truly Caribbean lifestyle.





The groundbreaking development is located on the Northeastern tip of Providenciales in the exclusive Leeward community near Blue Haven Marina, with access to shopping, bars and restaurants.





Each home in the gated development will also boast its own dedicated boat dock, making Blue Cay Estate a haven for yachting and water sport enthusiasts.








Editors note: Capitol Dispatch appears every Sunday during the legislative session.

Senate Republicans on Friday released their plan to address the state Supreme Courts McCleary decision, and it would make a fundamental change in the way Washington pays for K-12 education.

In a word, the state would increase its take of local property tax collections to pay for basic education; at the same time, it would reduce local reliance on excess maintenance and operations levies. In most rural areas, the size of the landowners property tax bill would not increase. It would just be distributed differently. It also would completely do away with local school M&O levies.

The proposal would authorize the state to increase its take of local property taxes by up to $1.80 per thousand of assessed valuation. Now, the state takes $2.14 per thousand of assessed property value.

Heres an example of how it could work:

Homeowners in the city of Longview last year paid $12.38 per thousand value in property taxes for city, state, port and other taxing authorities. That cost the owner of a $300,000 home $3,714. Of that, the state took $642. If the Legislature increased its share of property taxes by $1 per thousand  to $3.14 per $1,000  its share would rise to $942. But the total tax bill would stay at $3,714. (This is somewhat speculative, because exactly how the proposal would affect communities like Longview is not clear yet).

The state would get a bigger share of the tax pie. Some smaller taxing districts, such as rural fire and cemetery districts, would stand to lose property tax revenues. But the GOP plan would reimburse these smaller agencies for any losses in property tax revenues.

Whats uncertain at this point is just how much bigger a bite the GOP would take of property tax. Legally, theres a $3.60 per $1,000 cap on the states property tax authority. (Thats $1,080 on a $300,000 home.)

Officials say the plan known as a levy swap  would increase property taxes for urban, property-rich districts, like Seattle, and decrease property taxes for rural, property-poor districts. The GOP approach is a sharp contrast to one pitched by Democratic Gov. Jay Inslee, who has proposed several taxes to raise $4 million to comply with McCleary.

Both 19th District Democrats, state Sen. Dean Takko and state Rep. Brian Blake, said the Republican proposal gives legislators something to work with.

Its putting something real on the table for discussion, Blake, D-Aberdeen, said Friday. I think thats a step forward.

19th District state Rep. Jim Walsh, R-Aberdeen, said he wouldve liked to see more focus on specific numbers, but he said the GOP proposal creates a framework for a good solution.

The plan has the essential broad strokes, Walsh said. Its a step in the right direction and its a good step, and maybe its more than one step. Theres been a lot of political flack about no plan, no plan, no plan. So I think this answers that.

20th District State Sen. John Braun, a Centralia Republican, helped craft the GOP proposal, which Cowlitz County Assessor Terry McLaughlin, a Democrat, said is pretty well thought out. ... Im impressed with what I see.

Now the negotiations begin on what lawkmakers hope is the final step to comply with McCleary, the 2012 ruling that found it is unconstitutional to burden local taxpayers with the cost of funding basic education. The Legislature has until September 2018 to comply.

But in the meantime, legislators are sparring over a proposal to extend school districts excess levy capacity by a year. If they dont, and the Legislature fails to act on McCleary, schools statewide could lose $358 million in revenue. The House, with Blake and Walsh approving, voted 62-35 on Monday to extend the levy capacity by one year.

I dont think that local communities and children and school districts should be held hostage while we have our debate here in Olympia, Blake said. I think that its critical. Im hopeful that the Senate will eventually pass that and remove that angst that local communities are feeling over the funding.

Democrats tried to force a vote on the matter Monday but failed to muster a quorum. They were thwarted in part by Lt. Gov. Cyrus Habib, who caused a delay, and, in a humorous twist, one of their members left and got stuck in traffic, said Takko. Needless to say, our leadership was not happy, he said.

Now the proposal is scheduled for a public hearing on Monday in the Committee on Ways & Means.

Takko said theres no guarantee legislators will solve McCleary by the end of the session, and, in the meantime, school administrators are in limbo and cant balance their budgets.

The school districts are just afraid, Takko said. We had an opportunity to do the right thing when the House sent the bill over to us.
Northwest Innovation Works would make a $1 million, one-time grant to upgrade Kalama-area fire facilities under an agreement reached this month with Cowlitz Fire District 5.

The agreement hinges on the Northwest Innovation getting all permits to build the $1.8 billion project. The company would also pay a still-to-be determined amount for firefighter training.

$1 million is a big chunk of money for the fire district, which doesnt receive money from any special, voter-approved levies. The district expects to receive $1.59 million this year from its regular property levy, according to the Cowlitz County Assessors Office. The $1 million Northwest Innovation money could be used to replace the districts 20-year-old fire engines or contribute to the cost of remodeling the downtown Kalama fire station.

We wanted to give them a boost on the front end so they can build their infrastructure, said Vee Godley, Northwest Innovation Works president. Which doesnt imply that they are not currently ready to support us as needed. But as more people move into this community, it gives (the district) the opportunity to support my business and every other (part of the district).

The fire station remodeling plan calls for adding another floor to the existing station to expand office space, three additional dorm rooms and three additional workspaces, among other changes.

If this facility goes through, if the funding comes through  then we feel confident (in) our ability to expand without impacting the pocketbook of our citizens, which nets them a larger department and staffing, and delivery of services is nothing but a net positive, said District 5 chief Vic Leatzow.

Under the agreement, Northwest Innovation would pay for Cowlitz 5 firefighters to receive additional training at schools in Texas. The district would supplement Northwest Innovation Works onsite fire station and fire brigade, made up of workers who would receive the same training as Cowlitz 5 officials.

Leatzow said he also wants to double the fire departments paid staff, from six firefighters to 12, using the increased property taxes as the tax base expands with construction of the methanol plant. (Currently the department has 20 volunteer firefighters.)

Right now, its not clear how much the total property tax base will increase as a result of the methanol project, said Terry McLaughlin, Cowlitz County Assessor. Thats because the assessor still doesnt know what the plants exact property value will be. However, assuming the property is worth $1 billion, it would generate an additional $1.4 million in taxes for the fire district annually, McLaughlin said.

The expanded staffing and upgraded station would help the district respond to population growth in Kalama expected as a result of the Cowlitz Tribes Ilani casino near La Center and the proposed methanol project, Leatzow said.

The mitigation agreement requires the site to have automatic alarm systems to provide early warnings and give firefighters precise locations of fires. The pact also requires the plant to give firefighters detailed site maps and emergency vehicle access, among other measures.

Northwest Innovation works said it would take a number of on-site fire safety measures, such as installing high-volume sprinkler systems; an integrated foaming system for fire suppression; and a various monitoring systems to detect for gas, thermal and other changes.

Opponents to the project have questioned whether local emergency officials have the right training and resources to respond to fires or possible explosions from the methanol plant.

But Leatzow likened the project to other industrial sites, such as Emerald Kalama Chemical and Kalamas two grain terminals, where fire officials work with what companies already have onsite to squash fires.

We have some depth when it comes to industrial (fires) as it is already  Ethanol, sulfur dioxide, anhydrous ammonia, taline  those products are shipped on a daily basis (through Kalama) either on the freeway, by rail or by ship. So, you know, weve had exposure to that, Leatzow said.

Thirteen firefighters in the department have received training for fighting Bakken crude oil fires, which involve many of the same methods used for methanol fires, Leatzow said. Some of his staff also are trained to attack fires on ships.

What Northwest Innovation Works is proposing is not new to us. Its been in operation for well, I can honestly say, for the 26 years Ive been here. So to think that were going to have everything for everything is just incorrect, Leatzow said. (But) with what (all the local industrial) facilities have, and what we have, were extremely comfortable and confident of being able to deal with situations.
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Finnish telecommunications giant Nokia has created a customised digital assistant "MIKA" that will improve telecom operators' efficiency by providing engineers faster access to critical information.

MIKA that stands for 'Multi-purpose Intuitive Knowledge Assistant' -- is the first digital assistant trained specifically for the telecom industry, designed to provide automated assistance that saves time and frees highly skilled workers to focus on critical tasks.

"MIKA taps into the power of the Nokia AVA platform to provide quick and accurate answers, avoiding time wasted on fruitless searches. It is customised to support the specific needs of telecoms, and can deliver recommendations based on experience from networks around the world," said Igor Leprince, Head of Global Services at Nokia, in a statement.

MIKA combines augmented intelligence with automated learning to provide access to an extensive range of tools, documents and data sources.

These include the Nokia AVA knowledge library, a repository of best practices gathered from Nokia projects around the world.

Using the knowledge library MIKA can provide recommendations based on similar issues seen in other networks.

MIKA is available via a web interface and mobile agent so that engineers can tap into its knowledge base, wherever they are.

In addition to launching MIKA, Nokia introduces 'Predictive Repair', a service that will enable operators to reduce costs and improve network quality by moving away from break-fix approaches to hardware maintenance.

"The care service can predict hardware failures and recommend replacements up to 14 days in advance, with up to 95 per cent accuracy," the company said.

IANS
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To improve its capacity to safeguard dams, the Central Water Commission (CWC) on Friday signed two separate MoUs with Indian Institute of Technology, Madras and Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, said an official statement.

"The Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation has taken on board selected premier academic and research institutes, for capacity building in the areas of dam safety through World Bank-assisted Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP)," said a ministry statement.

"This will help them for the procurement of specified equipment and software for enhancing their capability to support dam rehabilitation efforts of CWC," it said.

The scope of the MoUs includes strengthening of the test facilities, analytical capabilities and exposure to best global institutions for technological exposure.

Launched in April 2012, the DRIP is expected to cost Rs 2,100 crore over a period of six years. India has about 4,900 large and several thousand smaller dams.

DRIP was originally planned for the rehabilitation and improvement of about 223 dams in the states of Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Tamil Nadu. Later Karnataka, Uttarakhand Aand Jharkhand were included in the project which increased the total number of dams to 250.

The Central Dam Safety Organisation of CWC is responsible for the implementation of the project.

IANS
Malala `heartbroken` by Trump order on refugees

Malala Yousafzai is the youngest ever recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize.

AFP, New York :

Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani student activist and Nobel Peace laureate, said Friday she was "heartbroken" by Donald Trump's order on refugees and urged the US president not to abandon the world's "most defenseless."

"I am heartbroken that today President Trump is closing the door on children, mothers and fathers fleeing violence and war," said the 19-year-old, shot in the head by the Taliban in 2012 after publicly advocating education for girls in her home country.

"In this time of uncertainty and unrest around the world, I ask President Trump not to turn his back on the world's most defenseless children and families," she added in a statement just moments after Trump signed the decree.

Yousafzai is the youngest ever recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, which she shared in 2014 with India's Kailash Satyarthi, a fellow education activist. Now living in England, she made a remarkable recovery after undergoing medical treatment and has traveled the world as a campaigner.

"I am heartbroken that America is turning its back on a proud history of welcoming refugees and immigrants-the people who helped build your country, ready to work hard in exchange for a fair chance at a new life," she said.

The decree signed by Trump was entitled: "Protection of the nation from foreign terrorist entry into the United States."

The White House did not immediately make the wording public, but a draft text leaked to US media said it would suspend the entire US refugee resettlement program for at least 120 days while tough new vetting rules are established.

In addition, it specifically bars Syrian refugees from the United States indefinitely, or until Trump decides that they no longer pose a threat.

"I am heartbroken that Syrian refugee children, who have suffered through six years of war by no fault of their own, are singled out for discrimination," said Yousafzai.

She named a friend who had fled wars in Somalia, Yemen and Egypt to study in the United States, where she had hoped to be reunited with her sister.

"Today her hope of being reunited with her precious sister dims," she said.

Malala Yousafzai, the youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, on Friday condemned President Trump's executive order establishing new vetting measures for immigrants.

"I am heartbroken that today President Trump is closing the door on children, mothers and fathers fleeing violence and war," Yousafzai said. "I am heartbroken that America is turning its back on a proud history of welcoming refugees and immigrants - the people who helped build your country, ready to work hard in exchange for a fair chance at a new life." Yousafzai, 19, issued the statement at about the same time that Trump announced his latest executive orders, including one that reportedly will suspend the U.S. refugee program for 120 days.


SYLHET: Kuchai Union Chhatra League brought out a rally welcoming new committee of South Surma Upazila Chhatra League recently.
Should students and teachers be online "friends"?

Cheri Lucas :

In the virtual world, the definition of a student-teacher relationship is hazy, particularly on social networks like Facebook and MySpace, where adults and teens share the same forums to connect and keep in touch with friends, classmates, relatives, and co-workers. Chances are, your teen has already found her teachers on Facebook and sent friend requests to join their networks.

But is it appropriate for your child to "friend" a teacher on a social network? Terrence Jegaraj, a senior at Interlochen Arts Academy in Michigan, primarily adds former teachers or instructors from summer programs in which he has participated. "I am friends on Facebook with a current teacher of mine, but there are teachers who tell us specifically not to add them until we graduate," says Jegaraj.

Many of the teachers we asked, in fact, were reluctant to add students on Facebook. While a teacher can use some networking sites, such as Twitter, to extend a classroom discussion or offer quick homework assistance in 140 characters or less, networks like Facebook and MySpace easily blur the student-teacher relationship because of the personal information made available on profiles.

"I think that students and teachers have different personas in the classroom than outside of it, and the two should not necessarily be mixed," says Heather Steed, a recent graduate of Florida State University in Tallahassee, Fla. As a student herself, Steed never added instructors on a social network until she completed their class.

"There needs to be a certain distance between teachers and students in order to maintain respect," adds Rabbi Avi Schwartz, an educator at Magen David Yeshiva in Brooklyn, N.Y. "A teacher needs to be a role model, mentor, and advice giver - not a 'friend.'" When a high school student gains access into a teacher's network of friends and acquaintances and is able to view their family photos, for instance, the student-teacher dynamic is altered. "Friending students provides more information than you are willing to provide in an educational setting," says Patrick Sweeney, an adjunct professor of history and government in Houston, Texas.

But student-teacher relationships can be transparent and visible to others online, which may have its pros and cons. Carlton Brown, a former community college instructor in Pittsburg, Pa, says interaction on a social network may be viewed and evaluated by classmates and others on the website, which, in turn, may deter inappropriate behavior. "Parents also have the opportunity to review and make judgments," says Brown. If you have your own account on Facebook, you may opt to join your child's teacher's classroom group as a parent "chaperone," for example, to supervise the discussion. (Based on current research, though, teens flock to Facebook because it's mainly a parent-free space, so this type of supervision may not work for all families.)

Alternatives exist, however, for teachers and students who wish to enhance learning outside of the classroom via the Internet. Schwartz has helped many students with homework or studying via instant messaging, and even keeps in contact with parents this way. Other tools - such as online classrooms on sites such as Blackboard and forums within a school district's website or teacher's own webpage - make student-teacher interaction possible on the Web. Of course, don't rule out more traditional methods to foster close student-teacher connections. "Appropriate relationships between teachers and students can be built by attending office hours or emailing for class-related advice," says Steed.

While students may be eager to find and friend their teachers on Facebook, many of them understand the implied rules and boundaries of this virtual environment. "I do understand why my teachers do not want me to add them until I graduate," says Jegaraj. "I think being friends with a teacher on Facebook while being their student may close the gap between the teacher-student relationship, and some teachers may not want this to happen while they are still teaching their students."

Ultimately, sites like Facebook are social environments. Teachers guide students in a professional capacity, and being social doesn't seem like part of the job description.
BASIS SoftExpo 2017 begins on Feb 1

Economic Reporter :

BASIS SoftExpo, the biggest exhibition in country's information technology industries, will begin at Bangabandhu International Conference Center (BICC) here on February 1.

Jatiya Sangsad Speaker Dr Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury is expected to inaugurate the four-day show. Planning Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal and State Minister for ICT Zunaid Ahmed Palak will grace the inaugural function as special guests, among others.

Bangladesh Association of Software and Information Services (BASIS) is organizing the show for eleventh time, with this year's slogan "Future in Motion".

BASIS, the national trade body for Software and IT Enabled Service industry of Bangladesh, held a press briefing at its office on Saturday marking the exhibition.

Chaired by BASIS president Mustafa Jabbar, the briefing was addressed by its senior vice-president Russell T Ahmed, vice-president M Rashidul Hasan, BASIS director and convener of this year's exhibition Syed Almas Kabir, among others.

Expressing his hope of holding a successful event, the BASIS president said BASIS SoftExpo is the most effective place for expanding businesses of country's IT companies.

"We could not organize this event separately after 2012. From now on, it will be held on every year and I hope this year's event will be a grand success," Jabbar said. According to the organizers, like earlier occasions, this year's exhibition will showcase the capacity of country's software and IT industries, its successes, and will hold many seminars and workshops regarding the sector.

The organizers are hoping around half a million people will attend the four-day extravaganza.

"We will divide the show area in four sections- business software zone, ITES and BPO zone, mobile innovation zone and e-commerce zone. Local and international business matchmaking sessions will be held for the business expansion of IT companies. Business lounge will also be set up," said Syed Almas Kabir.
When AbRam wanted to photobomb daddy

Shah Rukh Khan left us crackling when he narrated this incident from the airport. So the actor was returning to Mumbai along with AbRam and naturally, there were tons of photographers waiting to click pictures of SRK. To protect AbRam, he asked him to stand away from the hoopla. "But AbRam wanted to be part of every picture. Halfway through, Ravi (SRK's bodyguard) just took him away but he got so disturbed.

He said, 'You're not allowing to me take pictures'," revealed Shah Rukh. He also spoke fondly about how opinionated his youngest kid is. "He speaks a lot. He has also been giving me lowdown on demonetisation now," the actor quipped.
FTA promote corporate interests

Jomo Kwame Sundaram and Anis Chowdhury :

So-called free-trade agreements (FTAs) are generally presumed to promote trade liberalization, but in fact, they do much more to strengthen the power of the most influential transnational corporations of the dominant partner involved. While FTAs typically reduce some barriers to the international trade in goods and services, some provisions strengthen private monopolies and corporate power.

Not surprisingly, FTA processes are increasingly widely seen as essentially corrupt. They are typically opaque, especially to the producer and consumer interests affected. The eventual outcomes are often poorly understood by the public and often misrepresented by those pretending to be experts.

For example, many economists from the Peterson Institute of International Economics and the World Bank have continued to claim very significant growth gains from trade liberalization due to the TPPA which have been refuted by US government economists from the Department of Agriculture and International Trade Commission.

And while many in the transnational elite who benefit remain committed to yet more FTAs as means to extend and expand their power and interests, public trust and hope have declined as people become aware of some of their most onerous provisions and likely consequences.

Thus, people are voting against the politicians held responsible for supporting FTAs regardless of their party affiliations. Brexit and the election of Mr. Trump are examples of such global trends.

While FTAs may increase trade and trade flows, but are they worth the effort, considering the paltry growth gains generated? There are considerable doubts that some FTA provisions - e.g., those strengthening intellectual rights (IPRs) or investor-state dispute settlement (ISDS) rules unaccountable to national judiciaries - enhance international trade, economic growth or the public interest.

Greater trade and trade liberalization may potentially improve the welfare of all as well as accelerate growth and structural transformation in developing countries. But such outcomes do not necessarily follow, but need to be ensured through complementary policies, institutions and reforms.

Furthermore, trade liberalization on false premises has also undermined existing productive and export capacities and capabilities without generating new ones in their place, i.e., causing retrogression rather than ensuring progress. Such effects have not only set back economic development, but often, also food security, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Freer and fairer trade without FTAs

More people now realize that trade expansion compatible with welfare and development aspirations can happen without FTAs, e.g., through unilateral measures. This was evident when the US trade embargo on Cuba was dropped, and will happen if US trade relations with Iran improve. Similarly, US-Vietnam trade should expand rapidly in the absence of decades-long discriminatory and onerous US legislation imposed on Vietnam following the end of the War in 1975.

During the recent US presidential campaign, both presidential aspirants attributed the US trade deficit with China to the latter's alleged currency manipulation. While many developing countries, especially in East Asia, manage their currencies for various reasons, the recent market consensus is that the renminbi has been reasonably aligned for some time, while the currencies of some other countries, mainly US allies in East Asia, are more significantly undervalued. US trade negotiators have long complained that they cannot get enforceable currency rules into any FTA as it is so easily prone to abuse.

More fundamentally, such a solution does not address the underlying problems of the international monetary system which confers an 'exorbitant privilege' on the US. With greatly liberalized capital accounts in recent decades, many 'emerging market economies' have experienced large and sudden outflows of capital. Hence, they have resorted to the expensive and contractionary practice of so-called 'self-insurance', by accumulating huge foreign exchange reserves in case of need for emergency deployment.

This has had substantial opportunity costs for emerging economies as these reserves could have been used more productively instead of keeping them in low-yield US Treasury bonds. Besides transferring seigniorage gains (to the currency issuing government due to the difference between the face value of currency and their production costs) to the US, emerging countries are, in effect, helping to finance US deficits and expenditure.

If President-elect Trump lives up to his campaign rhetoric, all plurilateral and multilateral free trade agreements will be affected. But his 'Put America First' alternative of negotiating bilateral trade deals favourable to the US is also hugely problematic because of the heavy demands it will place on the US as well as its negotiating partners, especially smaller and developing countries with modest negotiating capacity.

And while Trump's main preoccupations have been with the goods trade and US jobs, there has been no indication so far that he will not continue to promote US corporate interests more generally, e.g., on intellectual property, investor rights, financial liberalization and dispute settlement, as part of ostensible comprehensive trade negotiations. Such concerns have been reinforced by the choice of recent appointees to senior trade-related positions in the new administration.

Determinants of trade flows and patterns are many and varied, including incomes (or, purchasing power), growth rates, tariffs, non-tariff barriers, exchange rates as well as import and export rules. The World Trade Organization (WTO) and other existing multilateral institutions can do much to facilitate greater trade in the interest of all if given a chance to succeed.

Worryingly, there has been no indication so far that the next US administration will not undermine multilateral trade negotiations under WTO auspices. Unfortunately, the current Doha Round of trade negotiations has been prevented by powerful corporate interests and the governments. Concluding a truly progressive trade agreement would not only meet developmental aspirations as well as advance national, public, consumer and producer interests, but would also help ensure a more balanced and robust global economic recovery.



(Jomo Kwame Sundaram, a former economics professor, was United Nations Assistant Secretary-General for Economic Development, and received the Wassily Leontief Prize for Advancing the Frontiers of Economic Thought in 2007. Anis Chowdhury, a former professor of economics at the University of Western Sydney, held senior United Nations positions during 2008-2015 in New York and Bangkok).
Rakhine Commission led by Annan

CONSISTING of six local and three international experts, and chaired by Kofi Annan, otherwise, the 'Rakhine Commission' delegation team will arrive in Bangladesh today. The team is scheduled to visit the South-Eastern district of Cox's Bazar at the same day to assess the actual state of Rohingyas staying in different refugees' camps. The team is also expected to hold meetings with top government officials. We expect our government to provide all forms of cooperation in order to make the delegates' visit a success in unveiling the truth of a manmade crisis.



However, according to diplomatic sources the Commission has been tasked to find conflict-prevention measures, ensure humanitarian assistance, work on reconciliation, establish basic infrastructure besides promoting long-term development plans in the restive state of Rakhine. Moreover, the Commission has been given a one-year time-frame to conduct research and submit a report on its findings.



To study and analyse the Rohingya refugees' condition first-hand is definitely important, but given the long list of responsibilities regarding conflict prevention, humanitarian assistance and reconciliation it is the oppressed Muslim minority in Rakhine who deserves the UN's attention more than the refugees now sheltered in Bangladesh. The formation of the said Commission was necessitated mainly due to the protracted carnage of Muslim Rohingyas by Myanmar military and Buddhists racists in the wake of 2012 violence in Myanmar's Rakhine State. Muslim Rohingyas were living there from the days of British Burma and they cannot be pushed into Bangladesh saying they are Bangladeshis. We saw how the UN Special Rapporteur Yanghee Lee was denied access to some of the most affected places in Rakhine barely a week ago to conceal truth about the brutalities committed on helpless Muslims.



After completing the four-day trip in Bangladesh the delegation is planned to return to Myanmar for reporting their findings to the Commission. The report will expose the truths behind the plight of a Muslim minority group, and also the various manners of torture and persecution the Muslims had to endure in the hands of Myanmar military.



We know Myanmar people have the reputation of being peace-loving and kind, what needs to be examined is the motivation of the Myanmar army in fomenting the crisis.



It is not our claim, but clearly indicated in the report issued by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein last year. It documented a wide-range of human rights violations and abuses against the minorities in Myanmar, particularly against the Rohingya Muslims community.



We feel confident that great peace-maker like Kofi Annan will get all the cooperation from the government of Myanmar so that he and other members of the Commission succeed in reaching peace and reconciliation in Myanmar for the good all. Kofi Annan may also seek help from neighbouring Muslim countries.






Knowledge-based ICT sector needs better policy-support

NEWS reports on Friday said that Bangladesh Association of Software and Information Services urged the government to allow a 20 percent cash incentive on exports of ICT goods. The sector is already contributing largely to the development of economy, education and employment along with benefits in areas of investment, banking, security, sociability, marketing, tourism and a number of other areas .



Bangladesh may earn more foreign currencies if government gives incentive on exports of ICT. As the industry is capable of earning $1 billion from exports currently, it would be wise for the government to agree to the plea of the association by allowing export incentives.



In recent years, the most dominating foreign currency earning sector - the apparel industry is facing setbacks to carry on business abroad because it often fails to meet the requirements of foreign buyers. Besides, labour resentment, political turmoil and an overall negative atmosphere are leading to the slowdown of RMG sector. So, government should think of promoting and patronising other export areas like the ICT sector. It will be sensible for the government to persue a export-friendly policy to accelerate the ICT sector by allowing a 20 percent cash incentive on its exports as demanded by its trade body.



ICT experts said that if the industry gets only 20 percent cash incentive for five years, it will perform even better than the garment sector and create thousands of new jobs. ICT is a 100 percent value addition sector; but the garment sector is not. Taking this matter into account, government should open up multiple areas of exports and not be dependent solely on garment sector. Bangladesh's ICT sector is a glimmering example of what can be achieved if government's goodwill and a skilled workforce work together. It may add more value to the economy of the country if the ICT products could be exported providing proper government policy-support.



Rapid development in the ICT sector also reflects a rapid growth of skilled manpower which ultimately accelerates the economic growth and it would expand the growth more through export promotion. The government should actively consider the demand of the Association of Software and Information Services to provide better incentives.



In our view, the government should be really proactive in building up a good infrastructure and policy support to the ICT sector because the industry is a knowledge-power based one and its development will qualititably add dividend to the national economy at the end.
Torture not to deter us from anti-Rampal movement: Anu

Activists of the National Committee to Protect Oil, Gas and Mineral Resources, Power and Port staged demonstration and brought out a procession in the city on Saturday in protest against the police action on them during January 26 hartal.

UNB, Dhaka :

Member secretary of the National Committee to Protect Oil-Gas, Mineral Resources and Power-Port Prof Anu Muhammad on Saturday said the government cannot stop their movement against the Rampal power project through resorting to torture.

"Even torture can't put the anti-Rampal campaigners off the movement," he told a rally in front of the Jatiya Press Club.

The National Committee organised the rally as part of its countrywide demonstrations against the police action on the agitating people at Shahbagh during Thursday's half-day hartal.

Noting that the movement to save the Sundarbans is getting stronger day by day, Prof Anu Muhammad said the government will be forced to cancel the Rampal project through it.

He also alleged that the government has been making false statements about the Rampal project through ads in newspapers and televisions.

Rejecting the government's statement that it will use ultra supercritical technology for the power plant and that of Rampal power plant's managing director that it would be a supercritical technology-based plant, the National Committee leader said the plant is not an ultra supercritical one at all.

He said the people have got united on the issue of saving the Sundarbans. "Even, those who didn't join the movement physically are not supporting the Rampal power plant, he said.

The rally was also addressed by National Committee leaders Mizanur Rahman, Dhaka University Prof Tanzim Uddin Khan, Saiful Haque and Bazlur Rashid Firoze.
World leaders slate Trump`s `Muslim ban`

Protesters make their way through the streets of London during the Women\'s March on Saturday. Internet photo

Al Jazeera News :

European leaders, the United Nations and international groups have condemned US President Donald Trump's measures against refugees and travellers from several Muslim-majority countries.

The chorus of criticism came as passport holders from Arab countries were blocked on Saturday from passing through customs at US airports and others were prevented from boarding US-bound planes.

Trump on Friday signed an executive order that will curb immigration and the entry of refugees from some Muslim-majority countries. He separately said he wanted the US to give priority to Syrian Christians fleeing the civil war there.

The bans, though temporary, took effect immediately, causing havoc and confusion for would-be travelers with passports from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

The United Nations refugee agency and the International Organization for Migration called on the Trump administration to continue offering asylum to people fleeing war and persecution, saying its resettlement programme was vital.

"The needs of refugees and migrants worldwide have never been greater and the US resettlement programme is one of the most important in the world," the two Geneva-based agencies said in a joint statement on Saturday.

Germany and France also expressed discontent with Trump's measures.

"The reception of refugees fleeing the war, fleeing oppression, is part of our duties," Jean-Marc Ayrault , France's foreign minister, said during a joint news conference with his German counterpart, Sigmar Gabriel .

Germany has taken in more than one million refugees and migrants, mainly from the Middle East, since 2015.

Although traditionally open to asylum seekers, France has taken in far fewer refugees than Germany since the migrant crisis erupted.

Some in the French government, mostly ex-premier Manuel Valls, have criticised Berlin's open-door policy, as has Trump.

"The United States is a country where Christian traditions have an important meaning. Loving your neighbour is a major Christian value, and that includes helping people," said Germany's Gabriel.

"I think that is what unites us in the West, and I think that is what we want to make clear to the Americans."

Inside the US, Democrats were also quick to condemn Trump's order, saying it would tarnish the reputation of the country as a land that welcomes immigrants.

"Today's executive order from President Trump is more about extreme xenophobia than extreme vetting," said Democratic Senator Edward Markey in a statement.
Bullet-hit body of woman found in city

Staff Reporter :

The bullet-hit body of an unidentified woman was found in the city's Gulshan-2 area early Saturday.

The woman aged around, 35, wearing salwar and kameez could not be identified immediately, said Dr Sohel Mahmud, the Head of the Forensic Department of Dhaka Medical College and Hospital (DMCH).

Two bullets were found in her body, the doctor said.

Police recovered the body from the Road No. 43 of Gulshan-2 at about 2:00 am, said Rafiqul Islam, Assistant Commissioner (Gulshan Zone) of Dhaka Metropolitan Police, and sent it to Dhaka Medical College and Hospital (DMCH) for an autopsy, the police official said.

The video footages collected from the nearby CCTV cameras is being analysed, he said.

An unnatural death case has been filed with the Gulshan Police Station in this connection.
Massive govt campaign in favour of Rampal Plant

Kazi Zahidul Hasan :

The government has launched a massive mass media campaign in favour of the Rampal power project in the wake of countrywide protest against it.

Power Division under the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources came up with the move following a decision from the government high-ups.

It has already started bringing out special supplements in newspapers and airing advertisements in televisions featuring every aspect of the power project, and measures taken by the government to conserve ecosystem in and around the power plant as well as the Sundarbans. "The government has launched the campaign for countering the adverse propaganda commenced by a vested quarter and mobilizing a nation-wide positive public impression on the project," State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Nasrul Hamid Bipu told The New Nation yesterday.

He said the government will also use social media for publicity favouring the power project. Besides, drama, documentary and talk shows containing positive expert opinions will be aired in the electronic media to create positive public opinions, he added.

Green activists and political parties have been urging the government to stop building the dirty coal-fired power plant in Rampal in close proximity to the world's largest mangrove forest, the Sundarbans. The Sundarbans - a UNESCO World Heritage Site spanning southern Bangladesh and India - is a vast mangrove forest that is the home to the fabled Royal Bengal Tiger and rich in flora and fauna.

Bipu claimed Rampal power plant would not leave any adverse impact on the Sunderbans. "It will be built using most modern technology so that harmful carbon emission can be reduced to tolerable level after the coal burn. It will also help prevent any kind of ecological imbalance to the World Heritage Site," he added.



"We hope the ongoing mass media campaign will drive out the negative perceptions from public minds regarding the environmental impacts and technologies of the power plant," he noted.

Bangladesh-India friendship power company, a 50-50 joint venture of Bangladesh Power Development Board and India's National Thermal Power Corporation, will implement the coal-fired power plant at Rampal, Bagerhat, some 14 kms off the Sunderbans.

In 2010, India's National Thermal Power Corporation and the Bangladesh Power Development Board signed a Memorandum of Understanding to build the 1320-megawatt plant in Rampal.


Planned Mexico wall will destroy lives

BBC Online :

Berlin Mayor Michael Mueller has urged US President Donald Trump "not to go down the road of isolation" with his planned border wall with Mexico.

Mr Mueller warned such divides cause "slavery and pain" and would "destroy the lives of millions".

The German city was divided by the Berlin Wall from 1961 to 1989.

Mr Mueller's statement came as Mr Trump and Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto agreed to "work out their differences" over the issue.

The planned wall was one of Mr Trump's key election campaign pledges, but it has cast a shadow over the US's relationship with its neighbour. Mr Pena Nieto has repeatedly stated that Mexico will not pay for the wall and has condemned a US suggestion that it may impose a 20% tax on his country's imports to finance the structure.

"We Berliners know best how much suffering was caused by the division of an entire continent," Mr Mueller said in a statement, referring to Europe's "Iron Curtain".

He said the city could not "silently look on as a country sets about building a new wall".

"We cannot let our historical experience get trashed by the very people to whom we owe much of our freedom: the Americans.

"I call on the president not to go down the road of isolation," the statement reads (in German). "Mr President, don't build this wall."

At a joint news conference on Friday at the White House with the British Prime Minister, Theresa May, Mr Trump said he had had a "very good call" with Mr Pena Nieto.

The White House later released a statement describing the telephone conversation as "productive and constructive", adding that both presidents recognised the "differences of positions" on the issue of the proposed wall.

"Both presidents have instructed their teams to continue the dialogue to strengthen this important strategic and economic relationship," the statement said.

He did not reveal the subject of the conversation with Mr Nieto when questioned at the White House, but said the US was "no longer going to be the country that doesn't know what it's doing".

Welcome to a brave new world of international diplomacy, Donald Trump style.

The new president seems determined to run foreign policy the way he handled his business empire and public interactions - vying for dominance and exploiting weakness.

Recalcitrant clients were either denied payment or sued. Personal adversaries were mocked. Political foes were demeaned.

On the international stage, we see these attitudes playing out in Mr Trump's goading, belligerent remarks directed at Mexico and its president. With a gross domestic product that's a fraction of the US's, Mexico is the Rosie O'Donnell or "Little Marco" Rubio on Mr Trump's world stage.

Contrast that with the president's deferential treatment of Russia's Vladimir Putin or British PM Theresa May during her recent White House visit.
Poor denied access to justice: CJ

Loyal lawyers recruited as APPs: Lack of legal service from NLASO

Staff Reporter :

Chief Justice Surendra Kumar Sinha has expressed concern at the state's failure to ensure justice to the poor and underprivileged people in the country.

"We have been listening since introduction of the Constitution that everyone is equal before the law and everyone has the equal right to access to justice. But they are denied of getting the justice due to lack of competent lawyers in their support at the District level," the Chief Justice said this while speaking at a view exchange meeting and unveiling the cover of publications as the chief guest on Saturday.

The SC Legal Aid Committee and Manusher Jonno Foundation organised the function at the Supreme Court's Auditorium in Dhaka.

Expressing his dismay over the poor state of access of citizens to justice, Surendra Kumar Sinha said, "How far have we been able to ensure this? I would say we've not been able to. It's our inability."

In this context, he criticised the recent practice of appointing Assistant Public Prosecutors (APPs) on political considerations, not in view of professional skills.

"The lawyers, who are loyal to any ruling party, are recruited as APPs in every district. As a result, through the money from the government fund is spent the poor cannot get justice," he said, adding, "Earlier famous and experienced lawyers of each district were appointed as such prosecutors for criminal cases. But now the panel is made of the ruling party people instead of the experienced lawyers".

The Chief Justice also said the National Legal Aid Services Organisation (NLASO) was established in 2000 for providing legal assistance to poor and underprivileged people. But they are not getting proper service from it due to below-par performance of the panel lawyers.

The Chief Justice mentioned that he was planning to float a fund for hiring reputed lawyers so that the destitute could be provided with effective legal aid. He also called upon the judges and lawyers to provide assistance to the minority and ethnic community people with the government funds under the legal aid cells of the NLASO in 64 districts of the country.

Chaired by Legal Aid Committee's Chairman M Enayetur Rahim, the function was also addressed by SC Bar Association President Yusuf Hossain Humayun, Manusher Jonno Foundation's Shahin Anam and National Legal Aid Services Organisation's acting director Md. Mostafizur Rahman.
Human trafficking, child abuse still big challenges

Bangladesh has been facing serious challenges in the field of human rights due to authorities' failure in curbing down the numbers of human trafficking and incidents of child abuse to a tolerable level.

Not only that, the country's Constitution though ensures equal rights for all human being without any discrimination, in fact the poor people in most cases cannot enjoy the facilities for their financial shortcomings.

Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Anisul Huq revealed the above observations on the country's human rights situation at a seminar, titled: experience sharing of NHRC: challenge and way forward, organized by National Human Rights Commission in the city on Saturday.

"Apart from child abusing, the human trafficking still remains a grave concern for the government. The country has a strong law to fight against human trafficking.The members of law enforcement agencies and Border Guard Bangladesh are doing their best to implement the existing law to tackle the situation," Anisul Huq said.

The statement of Law Minister came at a time when several local and international human rights organizations, including HRW [Human Rights Watch] and AI [Amnesty International], recently expressed severe concern over the human rights situation in Bangladesh.

The rights bodies have claimed that there is an increase in the number of extrajudicial killings by security forces, along with serious power abuses accompanied by custodial deaths, arbitrary arrest and detention, and harassment of journalists.

Besides, some members of security forces have acted with impunity and committed acts of physical and psychological torture. At the same time, the incidents of human trafficking, violence against women and children also have remained a serious problem, the rights bodies said.

Admitting the poor people's limitation to get protection under the legal shield due to their financial inability, the Minister further said: "There are some laws under which the poor people can get legal facilities without any cost. At the same time, the government has also been increasing budget every year in the social safety network programmes to provide service to the poor."

In fact, the country's constitution provides basic and fundamental rights along with ensuring full freedoms and particular space for all human being. The Article 27 ensures equality before law without any discrimination while the Article 28 provides all rights without discriminating as race, sex, culture, religion, etcetera.

The Constitution clarified about the fundamental rights and freedom: such as freedom of movement, freedom of association, freedom of assembly, freedom of property, freedom of religion, free choice of employment and basic fundamental needs.

Interestingly, the Constitution also provides some other laws which used by security forces to violate human rights. Of them, the Special power act - 1974 provides scope to detain without any cause and the Section 54 of criminal procedure code ensures arrest any civilian without any warrant.

Not only that, the emergency provisions 142-b can stop fundamental freedoms of people like freedom of movement, freedom of association, freedom of press, freedom of property, etcetera.

Against this backdrop, the Minister said: "The human rights condition is gradually improving following some effective steps taken by the government. The judiciary has also a big contribution in this sector. The government can able to overcome the present situation and achieve standard level of human rights with the cooperation of all relating organizations."

Among others, the seminar was attended by Indian Human Rights Commission chairman former chief justice HL Duttu, eminent legal expert Barrister Amirul Islam, UNDP local representative Sudipta Mukherjee and Amirul Kabir Chowdhury.


We praise Albright and others for their bold moral stand against Muslim hatred

Former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright and actress Mayim Bialik said they would register as Muslims if President Donald Trump creates a registry of Muslim Americans. Albright, who served under President Bill Clinton, cited her Jewish ancestry in her statement Wednesday on Twitter.



Albright's parents converted from Judaism to Catholicism in 1941 after their native Czechoslovakia disintegrated at the hands of Hitler. The family eventually immigrated to the US in the late 1940s.



Trump is considering a temporary ban on refugees from Muslim-majority countries such as Iraq, Iran, Syria, Yemen, Sudan, Libya and Somalia. During the presidential campaign, he also floated the idea of registering American Muslims in a database.



Albright, who campaigned for Hillary Clinton during the election season, repeated her stand during a conference call with the Refugee Council USA on Thursday.



Bialik, a star on "The Big Bang Theory," echoed Albright's words on Wednesday and also cited her Jewish heritage. Albright and Bialik join the list of other prominent Jews to criticize the Muslim registry idea. Speaking Saturday at the Women's March on Washington, feminist icon Gloria Steinem said to the crowd that if Trump forces Muslims to register themselves, "we will all register as Muslims."



Anti-Defamation League CEO Jonathan Greenblatt started the call just after Trump's election in November. Greenblatt, who is also Jewish and committed to fight anti-Semitism, also proclaimed that as a proud Jew he would register as a Muslim if one day American Muslims would be forced to register their identity under President Trump's regime.



President Trump is proving himself unable to think and understand the implications of hasty and thoughtless orders he has been issuing one after another. He gives the clear impression that he cannot formulate a policy, he is dismantling America's international image as a great country. He is there to follow an agenda of destruction.



The Muslims are not helpless, they are the Second largest religious community in the US. The Muslims contributed immensely in building America with their oil and petro-dollars.



We have faith in American people that sooner than one thinks President Trump will have to listen to the American people or get himself rejected. His idea of 'America First' means isolating America from the world to make America first in one.



President Trump, perhaps, does not know that Muslim extremism has been created as a counter reaction to the brutalities of a section of the American armed forces. He is ignorant of the reality that side by side with the West, all Muslim countries have been fighting ISIS and other extremist Muslim groups. He does not know that more Muslims have been killed by the extremist groups than others.



But we find no words to applaud the actions of former Secretary Albright and other like her for opposing the blind hatred against the Muslims. In a climate of unrelenting fear and hatred, they represent the voices of reason and justice. We feel President Trump is a threat to America's greatness.


Country

United States of America US Virgin Islands United States Minor Outlying Islands Canada Mexico, United Mexican States Bahamas, Commonwealth of the Cuba, Republic of Dominican Republic Haiti, Republic of Jamaica Afghanistan Albania, People's Socialist Republic of Algeria, People's Democratic Republic of American Samoa Andorra, Principality of Angola, Republic of Anguilla Antarctica (the territory South of 60 deg S) Antigua and Barbuda Argentina, Argentine Republic Armenia Aruba Australia, Commonwealth of Austria, Republic of Azerbaijan, Republic of Bahrain, Kingdom of Bangladesh, People's Republic of Barbados Belarus Belgium, Kingdom of Belize Benin, People's Republic of Bermuda Bhutan, Kingdom of Bolivia, Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana, Republic of Bouvet Island (Bouvetoya) Brazil, Federative Republic of British Indian Ocean Territory (Chagos Archipelago) British Virgin Islands Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria, People's Republic of Burkina Faso Burundi, Republic of Cambodia, Kingdom of Cameroon, United Republic of Cape Verde, Republic of Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad, Republic of Chile, Republic of China, People's Republic of Christmas Island Cocos (Keeling) Islands Colombia, Republic of Comoros, Union of the Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, People's Republic of Cook Islands Costa Rica, Republic of Cote D'Ivoire, Ivory Coast, Republic of the Cyprus, Republic of Czech Republic Denmark, Kingdom of Djibouti, Republic of Dominica, Commonwealth of Ecuador, Republic of Egypt, Arab Republic of El Salvador, Republic of Equatorial Guinea, Republic of Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Faeroe Islands Falkland Islands (Malvinas) Fiji, Republic of the Fiji Islands Finland, Republic of France, French Republic French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon, Gabonese Republic Gambia, Republic of the Georgia Germany Ghana, Republic of Gibraltar Greece, Hellenic Republic Greenland Grenada Guadaloupe Guam Guatemala, Republic of Guinea, Revolutionary People's Rep'c of Guinea-Bissau, Republic of Guyana, Republic of Heard and McDonald Islands Holy See (Vatican City State) Honduras, Republic of Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of China Hrvatska (Croatia) Hungary, Hungarian People's Republic Iceland, Republic of India, Republic of Indonesia, Republic of Iran, Islamic Republic of Iraq, Republic of Ireland Israel, State of Italy, Italian Republic Japan Jordan, Hashemite Kingdom of Kazakhstan, Republic of Kenya, Republic of Kiribati, Republic of Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Kuwait, State of Kyrgyz Republic Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon, Lebanese Republic Lesotho, Kingdom of Liberia, Republic of Libyan Arab Jamahiriya Liechtenstein, Principality of Lithuania Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Macao, Special Administrative Region of China Macedonia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Madagascar, Republic of Malawi, Republic of Malaysia Maldives, Republic of Mali, Republic of Malta, Republic of Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania, Islamic Republic of Mauritius Mayotte Micronesia, Federated States of Moldova, Republic of Monaco, Principality of Mongolia, Mongolian People's Republic Montserrat Morocco, Kingdom of Mozambique, People's Republic of Myanmar Namibia Nauru, Republic of Nepal, Kingdom of Netherlands Antilles Netherlands, Kingdom of the New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua, Republic of Niger, Republic of the Nigeria, Federal Republic of Niue, Republic of Norfolk Island Northern Mariana Islands Norway, Kingdom of Oman, Sultanate of Pakistan, Islamic Republic of Palau Palestinian Territory, Occupied Panama, Republic of Papua New Guinea Paraguay, Republic of Peru, Republic of Philippines, Republic of the Pitcairn Island Poland, Polish People's Republic Portugal, Portuguese Republic Puerto Rico Qatar, State of Reunion Romania, Socialist Republic of Russian Federation Rwanda, Rwandese Republic Samoa, Independent State of San Marino, Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, Democratic Republic of Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of Senegal, Republic of Serbia and Montenegro Seychelles, Republic of Sierra Leone, Republic of Singapore, Republic of Slovakia (Slovak Republic) Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia, Somali Republic South Africa, Republic of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands Spain, Spanish State Sri Lanka, Democratic Socialist Republic of St. Helena St. Kitts and Nevis St. Lucia St. Pierre and Miquelon St. Vincent and the Grenadines Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Suriname, Republic of Svalbard & Jan Mayen Islands Swaziland, Kingdom of Sweden, Kingdom of Switzerland, Swiss Confederation Syrian Arab Republic Taiwan, Province of China Tajikistan Tanzania, United Republic of Thailand, Kingdom of Timor-Leste, Democratic Republic of Togo, Togolese Republic Tokelau (Tokelau Islands) Tonga, Kingdom of Trinidad and Tobago, Republic of Tunisia, Republic of Turkey, Republic of Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Uganda, Republic of Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom of Great Britain & N. Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe
"The majority of cyber crimes have an international dimension, taking into account the origins of suspects and places where crimes are committed. Only through a coordinated approach at the global level between law enforcement agencies can we successfully track down the criminal networks behind such large-scale frauds and bring them to justice."

Law enforcement authorities from Europe and Russia have arrested five members of an international cyber criminal gang for stealing $3.2 million cash from ATMs using malware.Three of the suspects, Andrejs Peregudovs (41), of Latvia, Niklae Penkov (34) of Moldova, and Mihail Colibaba (30) of Romania, were arrested in Taiwan by the Taiwanese Criminal Investigation Bureau last summer, have already been sentenced to 5 years in prison for their role in a massive ATM heist operation, involving 22 individuals from 6 countries.The European-based cyber criminal gang used a variety of different hacking techniques to infect ATMs with malware and force them to dispense cash.According to Europol that began its investigation in early 2016, the gang used spear-phishing emails containing malicious attachments to target bank employees and penetrate the bank's internal networks.From there, the cyber crooks then located and hacked into the network of ATMs from the inside, and used a malicious software program to delete almost all traces of their activities.However, three suspects have already been arrested convicted, one has been arrested by the Romanian National Police, and one arrest has been made by the Belarusian Central Office of the Investigative Committee.Europol estimates the five arrested suspects caused damages to banks of around $3.2 Million, although in some cases,the stolen money was partially recovered from the criminals after the cashing-out.The ruling three of them will be deported back to their home countries, when their jail terms will end.Here's the statement by Steven WILSON, Head of Europol's European CyberCrime Centre (EC3):Europol did not provide names of any of the five criminals arrested, but has credited the success of its investigation to international cooperation by police across the world.Europol's European CyberCrime Centre (EC3) assisted the investigation by organizing operational meetings in Europe and Asia, providing analytical support, as well as analyzing the seized data and equipment.
Gov. John Bel Edwards laid out his reasoning to lawmakers Friday for a deficit-closing special session, saying he won't seek tax increases to close the $304 million gap and will try to protect education programs from cuts.

The Democratic governor spoke to the joint House and Senate budget committee, describing plans for a less than two-week special session to begin Feb. 13, to rebalance the $27 billion state operating budget for the fiscal year that began July 1.

"I'm the last person who wants another special session," said Edwards, who called two such sessions last year to deal with budget gaps. "But when we're looking at cuts of this magnitude, I believe it would be irresponsible not to open up the entire budget to scrutiny and it would be negligent to exclude the public from decisions that will affect them so much."

Edwards wants to use more than $119 million from Louisiana's "rainy day" fund to partially fill the shortfall and eliminate the rest of the deficit with cuts.

"There will be no proposal from my administration to raise a single tax or fee," he said.

But the governor said Republican and Democratic lawmakers have asked that he allow them to consider fee hikes, so he'll give lawmakers that option in the parameters of the special session that he'll call.

He didn't provide specifics about where he proposes to make cuts, saying he'll submit that detailed legislation by Feb. 6. But Edwards said he wants to spare public colleges, K-12 education, prisons, the social services department and certain health services for the poor and people with disabilities.

He warned the other reductions needed to rebalance the budget will be deep and painful.

Some GOP lawmakers are resistant to using the rainy day fund, saying Louisiana needs to make permanent cuts to better match the state's spending to its income rather than using the savings account for a temporary fix. Tapping into the fund requires a hefty two-thirds vote of the House and Senate, which could be a difficult hurdle for Edwards to reach.

Rep. Lance Harris, chairman of the House Republican delegation, suggested state government has grown too large and must be pared back. He said state spending has swelled by 4 percent annually over the last 14 years, compared to 2 percent yearly growth in the Consumer Price Index.

"Our government has actually been growing at a rate of two-to-one over the private sector. So, there are I think some legitimate concerns," said Harris, R-Alexandria. "We should have addressed the over-growth of government many years ago."

Rep. Walt Leger, D-New Orleans, offered other statistics, saying a comparison over the last 10 years instead shows total state appropriations have dropped.

"We ought to just be careful about the numbers we use and the facts that we look at," he said.

Edwards said using the rainy day money may not be "the ideal approach," but he said it would help stop "more devastating cuts."

The governor suggested part of the budget growth Harris cited came from his decision to expand Louisiana's Medicaid program to offer government-financed health insurance to more than 385,000 people. Edwards said he "won't apologize" for giving people greater access to health services.

House Republican leaders have balked at the budget-rebalancing session, saying Edwards and the budget committee could make the cuts on their own, without calling the full Legislature back to Baton Rouge. They've said such a session will bear unnecessary costs.

No lawmakers Friday challenged Edwards' directly on his decision to call the session. Several Democrats said they supported it.

Edwards said constitutional limits on his and the committee's abilities to cut spending would force limited areas of the budget to take the brunt of the cuts, usually higher education and health services. A special session, he said, will allow lawmakers to cut more broadly and more strategically.

The session will have to end by Feb. 23, but Edwards told lawmakers it could wrap up early "if we can all agree to work together."
The number of rigs exploring for oil and natural gas in the U.S. increased by 18 this week to 712. A year ago, 619 rigs were active.

by The Associated Press

Wikimedia

The number of rigs exploring for oil and natural gas in the U.S. increased by 18 this week to 712.

A year ago, 619 rigs were active.

Houston oilfield services company Baker Hughes Inc. said Friday that 566 rigs sought oil and 145 explored for natural gas this week. One was listed as miscellaneous.

Texas increased by nine rigs, Oklahoma was up by five, New Mexico increased by four, Louisiana was up by two and Alaska and North Dakota each increased by one.

Colorado decreased by three rigs and Arkansas and West Virginia each were down by one.

California, Kansas, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Utah and Wyoming were all unchanged.

The U.S. rig count peaked at 4,530 in 1981. It bottomed out in May at 404.
The sextoy market is growing quite rapidly in India right now.

Although it is not a big trend, it is a hot topic on the internet as it is secretly expanding its market.

In this article, we will focus on sextoy and introduce recommended sextoy for Indian beginners of sextoy by gender.

India, the birthplace of the Kama Sutra, is very strict about sex.

Also, premarital sex is basically not allowed. Therefore, there are many people who are sexually restricted.

But what happens when you continue to be sexually restricted?

Frustration may build up and you may end up taking your sexual stress out on your partner.

If you are able to adopt sextoy in a timely manner, you can get rid of those problems.

I want to have more exciting sex than Im having now.

I want more variation in masturbation

I want to get even stronger pleasure than I do on my own.

If you have any of these problems, please stay with me until the end.

What is sex toys for Indian?

Sextoy, as the name implies, is a toy used during sex and masturbation.

It is a generic term for vibrators, Egg-vibrators, Electric massagers, dildo, handcuffs and condoms.

They are used to make regular sex more exciting or to make masturbation more pleasurable.

Because sextoy is very stimulating, it can help you to get rid of the problems and frustrations of being in a rut of sex with your partner for a long time, or if you are unhappy with the lack of pleasure in sex with your partner.

The ability to satisfy your desires with movement, texture, and size, which cannot be done by a normal human being, can help you to be satisfied with sex and, as a result, improve your relationship with your partner.

It is also said to help improve sexual dysfunction (inability to get an erection or ejaculate) and difficulty in feeling during sex (insensitivity), which is attracting more attention than in the past.

In recent years, the demand for sextoy has increased due to the spread of smartphones and the Internet and the increasing number of people using online shopping.

Even those who are concerned about the appearance of sextoy (and find it difficult to purchase) can now easily obtain it by using mail order.

In the case of online shopping, most of the stores have taken steps to ensure that the contents of the products delivered to you are not revealed, so you can purchase them without your family members knowing.

Until a while ago, you had to go to the store where the adult goods were sold to buy them, so it was quite a hurdle to overcome.

Also, many people may have an image that sextoy is somehow embarrassing to own.

But nowadays, some of them are so stylish and cute that you cant believe they are sextoy at a glance.

More and more people are using them for travel and outdoor use because they are not too bulky and are suitable for carrying around.

Sextoy situation in India

Before introducing the recommended sextoy for Indians, lets talk about one of the sextoy situations in India in recent years.

In India, due to the high concentration of population, the following six cities have particularly high sales of sextoy in India.

Mumbai

Kolkata

Bangalore

Delhi

Chennai

Hyderabad

These cities account for roughly 70 percent of sextoy sales in India.

In the future, the percentage of sextoy use will gradually increase in other cities in India as well.

If you never talk about sextoy publicly, that girl in your neighborhood might be a sextoy user too.

If you are interested in sextoy, you dont have to suppress your desire for it.

What are Sextoys for beginner?

Among all sextoys, sextoy for beginners are vibrators, dildo, masturbators, Sex Lubricants, and condoms.

Sex Lubricants and condoms, which are familiar to people who have had sex, are also a great beginners sextoy.

I will explain the details of each toy later, but there are many sextoy products that are painful to use and can only be used after some anal expansion.

I assume that the Indian readers of this article are people who have not had much experience with sextoy.

If such people use professional sextoy suddenly, they are at risk of injury or trauma.

Therefore, to introduce sextoy, you need to start with a beginners version and gradually become familiar with it.

Advantages of using sextoy for Indians

There are three advantages of using sextoy for Indians

You can masturbate in a wide variety of ways.

Can have stimulating sex

Can develop new sexual zones

If you try to masturbate with your own fingers or hands, it tends to be a pattern.

However, with sextoy, you can easily masturbate in a variety of ways.

You will definitely be fascinated by the attraction of new stimulation.

Also, your daily sex life will be more exciting than ever.

There are many things in sextoy that are visually stimulating and give you a strong and intense feeling of pleasure.

This allows you to see your partners promiscuity in a way that you wouldnt normally see it.

When you are in a relationship, sex with your partner may become a pattern, but it can also eliminate these problems.

It can also lead to the development of new sexual zones (which is the training of sexual stimulation to allow you to feel orgasms).

For more information on the development of new sexual zones, see the following articles

[Women's Erogenous Zone]How to find and develop, 7 hidden sexual zones !![In India] In this issue, we will dissect the female erogenous zone! ..." Many of you may be like that. Men, in particular, shou...

Thus, the use of sextoy can only be a good thing for the men and women of India.

Sextoy for beginner men in India

So, lets continue with the recommended goods for Indian sextoy beginners.

For ease of understanding, we will introduce them by gender. Lets start with the men!

The following five goods are recommended for novice Indian sextoy men

Masturbator

Cock rings

Love Doll

Sex Lubricants

Toys for the prostate

Lets check each one in detail.

Masturbator

The masturbator is a sextoy for men that elaborately reproduces a womans vagina, mouth, and anus, and is one of the most popular sextoy products.

It is used by men to masturbate, and it is popular because it provides stronger stimulation and pleasure more easily than using hands.

Most are made of good quality silicone, and their softness is something that cannot be achieved with ones own hands.

They can provide stronger pleasure than a real womans vagina, so be careful not to overuse them. (You wont be able to have an orgasm in a womans vagina anymore.)

Again Male masturbators are a wonderful toy. I do not need any favourite timing, bothersome bargaining. You do not have to worry too much.

Revolutionize your masturbation time! ! !

Made in Japan is a wonderful kinky toy.#sextoysindia #SexToyIndia #Japanhttps://t.co/4k70QGzoTP pic.twitter.com/tRVdxTKPpa   SEXToys India PR  (@SextoysIndia) November 12, 2018

Some of them are disposable, while others can be washed and used over and over again, so its fun to buy a few to use depending on your mood.

If you want to know more about masturbator, please click here

Really pleasant male masturbation and how to do it Are you in a rut with your daily masturbation routine? I'm going to show you five ways men masturbate that you might ...

[For Beginners] How to choose and use a male masturbator without fail Gentlemen.Have you ever used a masturbator? The person who sees this article is probably the one who has not experien...

Cock Ring

A cock ring is literally a ring-shaped sextoy that is worn on a mans penis.

It maintains an erection by binding the penis with a ring of rubber and blocking blood flow.

It is sometimes used as an accessory to be worn on the penis, and may be made of metal or plastic as well as rubber.

In some cases, cock rings have parts or vibrators attached to them that stimulate the vagina, so they kill two birds with one stone, giving a woman pleasure while maintaining an erection.

Cock rings are also sometimes used to treat erectile dysfunction.

It can help with erectile dysfunction, where the penis doesnt get hard when you get an erection or doesnt last long when you try to insert it.

Men who are prone to breakage or who are unsure of the hardness and size of their erections can use a cock ring to increase the size of their penis and maintain an erection for a longer period of time.

Cock rings vary in price from around RS700 to over RS2000 with a vibrator function.

Some of them do not fit your penis, so you should check the size of the cock ring before you buy.

You should know the size of your partners or your own penis when it is erect.

[Penis enlargement] What is a cock ring? Types and usage Cock rings can make your penis bigger and harder. It also makes sex with women more fulfilling and increases your sat...

Love Doll

Love dolls, also known as Dutchwives, are dolls with the appearance of a woman who can experience simulated sex.

There are dolls that look like a woman, but they have no face and only have their breasts and lower torso cut off, and some dolls are so realistic that they can actually be mistaken for real women.

Some expensive dolls can cost more than 1 million yen, and the quality of the doll is easily influenced by the price.

The higher the price, the higher the quality of the doll will be, the closer it will be to the real woman, and the cheaper the doll will be, the less elaborate it will be, making it look like a real doll! Something is wrong! That is also true.

You cant go wrong if you choose a balance between price and taste.

There are stores that allow you to make custom-made love dolls, so you can create a girl of your choice.

You can make a girl of your choice. You can start with inexpensive love dolls at first, and once you get used to it, you can try custom-made love dolls.

If you want to know more about Love doll, please click here

Thorough explanation of the charm of sex dolls! Have you ever heard of sex dolls that are used primarily for pseudo-sex purposes? It is a doll that is quite close to...

Sex lubricants

Sex lubricants are used as a substitute for lubricating fluid during sex or as a lubricant for men to use masturbator rules.

It is not uncommon for women to have difficulty getting wet, depending on their physical condition, or to have difficulty getting wet due to their constitution.

Forcing the penis into the vagina at such times can cause painful intercourse.

There are various types of Sex Lubricants, some with a warming effect, some with a cooling effect, and some with a scent.

Changing the Sex Lubricant used during play is recommended as a good sex accent.

If you want to learn more about Sex Lubricants, click here.

What is sex lubricant?Explain the difference and usage of each ingredient The word "sex toy" may seem like a hurdle to overcome, but lotion is actually one of the most familiar sex toys. Many...

Toys for the Prostate

Another sextoy for men is prostate toys.

The most famous prostate toys include Enemagra, which was originally a prostate massager developed by an American urologist to treat an enlarged prostate line.

Modern prostate toys are imitations of Enemagra that have spread as sextoy for men.

Many people think of prostate toys as being used by gay men, but in fact they are often used by straight men.

What is the prostate?

The prostate is an organ found only in men. It is a walnut-sized organ located deep in the pelvis, just below the bladder, and its primary role is to protect and nourish sperm.

You cannot touch the prostate gland from outside the body, but you can touch it by inserting a finger or sextoy through the anus.

By inserting a finger or sextoy through the anus and touching the prostate and developing it, you can feel intense orgasms.

Orgasms felt in the prostate are mainly dry orgasms, which are orgasms that do not involve ejaculation. (You can also feel orgasms with ejaculation through prostate stimulation.)

The prostate is called the male G-spot, and dry orgasms can be much more intense than ejaculation.

Therefore, men who are able to develop a prostate can become addicted to the pleasure.

sextoy for beinner women in India

The following are the recommended goods for Indian women who are new to sextoy.

The following three are recommended for use by women who are new to sextoy.

Vibrator.

Dildo

Electric Masserger

Lets check out what each one is in detail.

If you want to check out womens toys, click here.

[BEST25]Sex Toys for Women in IndiaThat Can Help You Have an Orgasm There are many women who pretend to feel orgasm during sex. But don't worry, you don't have to pretend to feel orgasm...

Vibrators

A vibrator is a sextoy that vibrates with an Egg-Vibrator to provide stimulation and is often referred to simply as a vibrator.

Some vibrate as well as rotate, and there are many variations of sextoy.

It is quite a popular sextoy, and is well recognized by people who do not know much about sextoy.

Its usage is similar to that of a massager, but it is more compact and easier to carry than a massager, and many of them look as cute as a lipstick or a macaroon, so they are popular among women.

For a while, a famous influencer on twitter said, This is good! You may have heard of the topic of this article by introducing the recommended vibrators.

Vibrators are great for women to use on their own, but they are also recommended for men who have difficulty satisfying women with sex.

Since it is powered by electricity, it is far less tiring than moving your hands by yourself.

This makes it easier to satisfy a woman with sex because you can caress her for longer than usual.

Vibrators are mainly used on the female side, but they can also be used on men.

When used on men, they are used to attack the nipples and glans, and in both cases it is recommended to wear a condom for hygiene reasons.

Introducing how to use the vibrator, its purpose, and how to choose it! Vibrator uses the vibrations caused by the rotation of the motor to provide stimulation. It is one or two of the most...

Dildo

A dildo is a model sextoy made to mimic a male penis.

It can be made of silicone, elastomer (think of it as a material similar to PVC), metal or glass.

A dildo can be used by a man for his female partner during sex, or by a woman for masturbation to get pleasure from it.

They are mainly inserted into women, but some can be used in the male anus as well.

It is sometimes used synonymously with vibrators, but the vibrator is not the same thing as a vibrating device.

A model of a penis that does not vibrate is a dildo.

Some of them have suction cups that can be attached to the floor or wall so that you can enjoy realistic masturbation without using your hands.

For fun, there is a dildo made in the shape of your partners penis.

This one is also popular as a gift, and if youve been together for a long time and are having trouble finding a gift for your partner, you might want to pick one.

To learn more about dildo, please click here.

What is Dildo: Orgasms with Dildos for Men and Women A dildo is a model of a male organ that is used by women for masturbation and by men to stimulate the prostate gland. Th...

Electric Masserger

A Electric Masserger is a hand-held electric massager, also known as a handheld massager, and can usually be purchased at electronics stores.

It was originally designed to relieve stiff shoulders and back pain, so the hurdle of buying one in a physical store is quite low.

Many people may have seen or used it in some form or another, as it is often installed in leisure hotels.

Such a massager is highly recommended for beginners because it is easy for women to get pleasure from it when they use it during masturbation.

It is larger than Egg-Vibrator and vibrations are stronger than those of Egg-Vibrators and vibrators, so even just hitting the clitoris can give you a great deal of pleasure.

For those women who have never had an orgasm during sex with their man, the massager may be a good way to get a feel for what it feels like to have an orgasm.

It looks and feels like an electric massager, so you wont have to feel awkward if your roommate finds out.

If you are in a rut of having sex with your partner, if you want to feel an orgasm through masturbation, or if you are thinking of using a sextoy, why dont you try it from a simple massager?

To learn more about Electric Masserger, click here.

What is a massager? Introducing types, selection methods, and usage Originally, the Magic-wand vibrator and the massage machine were sold as a home massage machine used for the back and th...

How to choose a sextoy for Indian

Now that weve covered the different types of sextoy, heres how to choose one.

Especially if you are trying sextoy for the first time, pay attention to the following three points:  Does the size fit you (the partner)?

Does the size fit you (your partner)?

Is the environment able to produce sound without problems?

Price range

First of all, the choice of size is quite important.

Most sextoy are used against or inserted into the genitals, but the genitals are very delicate organs for both men and women.

For this reason, using an inappropriate size may cause damage.

Secondly, the environment should be able to produce sound without problems.

Some sextoys not only wear, but also rotate and vibrate. Its easier to get pleasure from something that moves than something that doesnt, but the fact that it moves means that the internal rotors make some noise.

If you live in a house with thin walls or if you have roommates, you may not be able to concentrate because of the noise, so it is best to choose one that is silent or has a low noise level.

Especially in India, where many people live with their families, it is very important that you dont have to worry about sound when you use it.

Finally, there is the price range.

The price range of sextoy ranges widely, from around RS500 at the cheapest to RS10,000 or more at the highest.

Its good to consider how much money you can afford and how much you want to buy.

Do you want your family to not find out about sextoy?

I live with my family and want to use sextoy without them finding out! If you are a man, you should buy a camouflage sextoy that does not look like a sextoy at first glance.

For men, there are many masturbators that do not look like a sextoy, and for women, there are vibrators that only look like cosmetics.

If you choose such a type, youll be safe in case your family members find out.

How to buy sextoys in India

The best way to purchase sextoy is through online shopping.

For more information on how to purchase sextoy, please see the article below.

Sextoy is one of them.

Therefore, you can easily get sextoy in India by using online shopping.

SexToysINDIA is a long established and stable sextoy store and you can have sextoy delivered to any place in India.

They also offer cash on delivery, so those who are worried about shopping with a credit card do not have to worry.

Of course, the latest security is in place, so your information will not be taken out when you use your credit card.

To begin with, many people may be concerned about whether they are legally allowed to purchase sextoy.

ikmAs it turns out, its not illegal.

Right now, it is not open to the public because the Indian adult market is still in the development stage, but it will gradually spread from now on.

Take advantage of sextoy and open the door to new pleasures and culture.

Cautions for Indians using sextoy

When using sextoy, keep the following three things in mind

Keep sex toys clean

Watch out for electrical leakage

Beware of the heat generated by the body while using a sex toy

As I mentioned earlier, many sextoy products are used for the delicate zone.

Therefore, it is most important to keep the sextoy itself clean. It is very important to keep the sextoy itself clean, because if a slight scratch is created by friction, bacteria can enter and breed there.

It is safe to wear a condom when using the masturbator, just in case.

In addition, many sextoy devices are powered by a power source, so if they are not waterproof, there is a possibility of electric shock or malfunction due to wetness.

Some may even develop heat during continuous use. If the fever becomes too much, you may get burned, so be careful.

If you get a fever during use, stop driving the sextoy immediately and refrain from using it.

You will enjoy sex more if you keep it safe and use it correctly.

Summary

What did you think?

In this article, we have introduced the recommended sextoy for the beginners of sextoy in India.

The sextoy market is growing rapidly in India and it will continue to grow steadily in the future.

As India is a rather closed-minded country, it can be difficult to be open about ones sexual habits and values.

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SPRINGFIELD  With the recent demise of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus after 146 years, it is clear that long-established businesses can fail due to conditions beyond their control.

That worries Wayne Sirles, whose family has operated an orchard in Southern Illinois for 144 years.

Without a stable, legal workforce to pick their fruit, the future of Sirles Rendleman Orchards in Alto Pass  and many other orchards  is in danger.

We need help to harvest our crops. It is a huge issue for specialty growers, Sirles said at the recent Illinois Specialty Crops, Agritourism and Organic Conference in Springfield.

Rendleman Orchards has been in business for almost a 150 years, but it may have to reduce the size of its operation to keep going if family members cant find workers.

Our biggest limitation is labor. Its expensive and restrictive, Sirles explained.

The orchard grows apples, peaches, cucumbers, pumpkins, nectarines and other fruits and vegetables.

The issue has grown over time with stricter regulations and the evolution of the immigrant workforce. The children of many immigrants who worked for the family previously are getting college educations and choosing different careers. The move reflects the same trend in many long-term farm families.

And tight labor rules related to immigration make it harder to bring new workers into the country to fill the gap. Providing housing that meets current standards makes it more difficult too, Sirles said. Added to that, many local people still dont want to do the jobs that first-generation immigrants often do.

He spoke about his concerns with Adam Nielsen, Illinois Farm Bureau director of national agricultural policy development, asking Nielsen to alert legislators to the severity of the problem.

Nielsen encouraged other specialty growers to also contact their legislators and tell their personal stories.

The more voices, the more stories, the more effective it will be, said Nielsen, who has traveled with orchard owners to Washington D.C. to speak about labor and immigration issues. We have to keep that issue going it has to be addressed.

He also encouraged members of the specialty crops, organic and agritourism-focused organization to create its own legislative affairs committee that will have a voice for growers.

He acknowledged these agriculturalists have some different interests than other farmers represented by the Illinois Farm Bureau. In a recent survey of IFB members, farm labor concern wasnt among top three priorities. The top priority for 20 percent of IFB members surveyed was to fight regulations, followed closely by preserving crop insurance at 17 percent and cutting taxes at 15 percent.

Lobbying for locks and dam improvements and a fair Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) that benefits ethanol production tied at 14 percent and 13 percent cited concern for defending the North American Free Trade Agreement.

In any trade war, agriculture is the sacrificial lamb, Nielsen said.

Illinois will have less influence in Congress in coming years because of its declining population as people move out the state. In 2022, Illinois will lose one of its 18 members of Congress, and it will come from rural Illinois.

Our influence will diminish because people are fleeing the state, said Nielsen.

He expects that many agricultural interests including research and Extension are going to get squeezed.

There is a lot of competition for dollars, he said.

Still, he said there is hope for better agricultural labor laws related to immigration. He pointed out that rural America helped get President Donald Trump elected and should have some power during this administration.

There is hope there  despite all the talk about the wall, he said.

Sirles said he would participate in a legislative affairs committee in the interests of organic, specialty crops and agritourism. He has already served on the Illinois Farm Bureaus GrassRoots Issue Team (GRITs) program to address such issues.

The biggest challenge is that most people dont understand our labor needs and the regulations, said Michelle Sirles, Waynes wife, who is active in the orchard business. We pick everything by hand.

She said it is difficult to work with the H-2A guest worker U.S. labor laws that are very restrictive.

Jeff Flamm, president of Flamm Orchards in Cobden, agreed.

Everything we do for our fresh market is all by hand, he said.

They employ 150 to 180 people. He is limited to 64 workers through the H-2A visa program. Other than those, almost all the other jobs are local. Its important for the community to have these support jobs in the shed, office, shop and retail.

I need 60 guys to get the harvest. Without them, nobody else would have a job, Flamm said, noting his employees shop in local grocery stores and businesses and help Union County communities thrive.

His son, Austin, and nephew, Parker, are currently in college studying agricultural business. Both have benefited from working on the family farm and are considering their future now. Austin is evaluating what happens next to determine where his future in ag will be  on the family orchard or perhaps working in the agricultural sector related to row crops.
Washington (CNN)-

With just a few quick strokes of the pen, President Donald Trump on Friday banned -- temporarily, for now -- more than 134 million people from entering the United States.Trump barred citizens of seven Muslim-majority countries from entering the US for at least the next 90 days by executive order, which a senior White House official said later Friday is likely just a first step toward establishing a broader ban.It's unclear how many more countries will be added to the list, but the official said the administration will be "very aggressive" as it weighs how many more countries to add to the list.Asked what criteria the administration will consider as it looks to expand the ban beyond the initial seven countries, the official said simply the "mandate is to keep America safe.""Not going to take any risks," the official added.That's just one part of the controversial executive order Trump signed Friday dubbed: "Protecting the nation from foreign terrorist entry into the United States." Many of the provisions in the order are consistent with Trump's campaign pledges.Here's a breakdown of what the executive order does. - Read More
Former Haiti President Michel Joseph Martelly will make a historic visit to Claflin University on Thursday, Feb. 2, as part of the university's Visionary Leader in Residence program. He will discuss issues in Haiti as well as opportunities for faculty, staff and student engagement.

Martelly will be accompanied by former First Lady Sophia Martelly.

Born on Feb. 12, 1961, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Martelly was elected the 56th president of the Republic of Haiti and served in that position from 2011-2016. He won with more than 67 percent of the electoral vote. While in office, Martellys focus was transforming the education sector, focusing on employment, the rule of law, the environment and energy.

Martelly will give a lecture at 11 a.m. to a group of sophomore students in the William V. Middleton Fine Arts Center. He will also participate in two separate roundtable discussions at the Arthur Rose Museum. The first will begin at 2 p.m. with faculty and staff, and at 3:15 p.m., Martelly will hold a roundtable discussion with students.

The Columbia World Affairs Council and Congressman James Clyburn will co-host a reception for the Martellys at 5:30 p.m. at the Columbia Marriott Hotel.

During his term in office, Martelly faced the aftermath of the devastating earthquake that struck the country on Jan. 12, 2010, and his presidency focused on relocating more than 1.4 million people who were living in tents into permanent housing and rebuilding the capital of Port-au-Prince as well as government institutions.

His primary education program, which was funded with innovative financing from the telecommunications sector, allowed him to provide free education to more than 1.2 million children.

Martelly attended community colleges in the United States before returning home in the mid-1980s to embark on a musical career. He became a bandleader and adopted the moniker Sweet Micky. He quickly established himself as a star in Haiti, gaining fame for his outlandish live performances and earning considerable critical acclaim as an important innovator in Haitian dance music known as compas.

On March 26, 2012, Martelly was awarded the Golden Great Cross of Merit Duarte Sanchez y Mella from Leonel Fernandez, president of the Dominican Republic. In July of 2012, the International Academic Unit of the University of Panama School of Law and Political Science bestowed upon him the Great Cross of the Order of Gil Colunje, one of the highest distinctions given to a foreigner, in recognition of his commitment to the development and restoration of his country.

Since ending his mandate in February 2016, Martelly has been focused on giving speeches about his commitment to education and the rebuilding of Haiti as well as focusing on the family foundation, Fondation Rose et Blanc (Pink and White Foundation), which he and Sophia started 21 years ago to provide assistance to those most in need throughout Haiti.

For more information, contact the Office of the Provost at 803-535-5404.
An Orangeburg County deputy has been presented with the South Carolina Sheriffs Association Medal of Valor award for saving a man's life.

The award was presented to Deputy C.J. Quinlan by Orangeburg County Sheriff Leroy Ravenell at the winter meeting of the South Carolina Sheriffs' Association at the Embassy Suites in Columbia on Thursday evening.

Deputy Quinlan has exemplified bravery and courage in saving a mans life from a burning residence, Ravenell said.

Quinlan was on patrol when a call went out about a suspicious vehicle. That search led to a residential area in Sulton Court, where Quinlan spotted a mobile home on fire. He managed to awaken the sleeping resident and get him out of the home that became fully involved in flames.

Its humbling, its humbling. Im still in shock, Quinlan said Friday of the award presented before sheriffs and officers from around the state. But (the victim is) the hero.

In addition to Quinlan, other deputies receiving the Medal of Valor were Berkeley County Sheriffs Cpl. Kimber Gist and Florence County Sheriffs Cpl. William Odom and Deputy Tyler Urquhart.

Gist was shot multiple times yet not only survived but managed to give fellow officers a description and the name of her assailant.

Odom and Urquhart pulled a victim from a burning vehicle following a fiery crash.

The South Carolina Sheriffs Association Medal of Valor Award is intended to bring special recognition to those deputies who have displayed tremendous bravery or courage during the previous calendar year.

Law enforcement officers put their lives on the line to protect our communities every day, said Sheriff Jay Brooks of Chesterfield County, Medal of Valor Committee chairman. We certainly do not want to diminish the risks and sacrifices that all law enforcement officers make, but we do believe the four deputies we have selected to receive the Medal of Valor Award this year truly deserve special recognition.
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The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) considers the financing of a part of a road between Ganja and the Georgian border as part of the project for reconstruction and upgrading of roads in Azerbaijan, Ivana Duarte, head of the EBRD Baku office, told Trend.

"We are considering the financing of 130 km of road on the M2 highway between Ganja, the second largest city in Azerbaijan, and the Georgian border. This would be done within the previously signed framework loan agreement for regional roads," she said.

"The M2 Highway is part of the East-West corridor, which is expected to open up flow of goods via the Silk Road. We hope we will be able to commit to this important project in early 2017."

Duarte added that EBRD continues to support the Azerbaijani governments priority of rehabilitation and reconstruction of its principal road corridors and key regional roads.

"The well-functioning infrastructure is crucial for trade, for regional cooperation with neighbors, and in general for economic development across the country," she said.
The world is tired of Armenias obstinacy, Azerbaijani Deputy Prime Minister Ali Hasanov told reporters in Baku Jan. 27.

Organizations and states all over the world are tired of the obstinate, non-constructive stance and the aggressive policy of Armenia, Hasanov, who also chairs Azerbaijani State Committee for Refugees and IDPs, said.

Even Armenias patrons are tired of it, he said. The Armenian diaspora in the US, France and other countries have either ceased or reduced their aid to Armenia. They see that their aid doesnt reach the Armenian population, but goes to Sargsyan regime.

He said that neither the two peoples, nor the leadership of Azerbaijan are to blame for the events that occurred during the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

We have become victims of the policy of some states, Hasanov said.

He stressed that the current regime in Armenia has ripped its people off and brings its end closer by clashing with Azerbaijan.

The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts.

The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts.
Royal Brompton & Harefield Hospitals Specialist Care, the UKs largest specialist heart and lung centre, will be performing a life-changing surgical myectomy for the management of Obstructive Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy at this years Arab Health 2017.



The event will be held at Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Centre from January 30 to February 2.



The simulation will be the first-time that RB&HH will perform the procedure in the Middle East, said the company in a statement.



The procedure provides hope to patients in the Middle East with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, an inherited heart disease, which affects as many as 1:500 people across the world, it stated.



Hypertrophic CardioMyopathy is the most common inherited cardiac condition and associated with an increased risk of sudden death in the young.



The disease affects people of all ages, is a major cause of complications in youth, and can often affect several members of the same family due to its genetic traits. On average, up to 75 per cent of the patients are associated with symptomatic Left Ventricular Outflow Tract Obstruction (LVOTO).



LVOTO is caused by the thickened heart muscle and the abnormal movement of the mitral valve and is the main mechanism of symptoms in Hypertrophic CardioMyopathy patients. The most definitive management of the LVOTO is the surgical myectomy.



Across the globe there are only few centres with the clinical experience to manage Inherited Cardiac Conditions (ICC), Royal Brompton & Harefield Hospitals (RB&HH) is one of the largest centres for the diagnosis and management of patients with ICC.



During Arab Health 2017, RB&HH Specialist Care will demonstrate this technically demanding surgical operation. The procedure is one of many offered in RB&HHs inherited cardiac service.



Fabio De Robertis, adult consultant cardiac and transplant surgeon at RB&HH will perform the demonstration whilst Dr Antonis Pantazis, consultant cardiologist at RB&HH, Lead of the Cardiomyopathy Service, will talk about the procedure as it is being simulated.



The simulations will take place on January 30 and January 31 between 2pm-3.30pm on the ABHI stand (UK Pavilion, Zabeel Hall 1, Stand Z1D30), it stated.



"Heart disease is one of the biggest killers in the Middle East and a thickened heart muscle is one of the main risk factors for sudden cardiac death, especially in young patients," explained Dr Antonis Pantazis at RB&HH.



"Patients with LVOTO often experience exertional symptoms which can impact daily living. For this reason, we are excited to be demonstrating this life-enhancing procedure in the Middle East in order to bring hope, and a real solution to those with HCM," he noted.



"We are proud to be one of the few leading ICC centres across the world with state-of-the-art imaging services, genetic advances and a full range of expert interventions to manage these cardiac conditions," he added.



Fabio De Robertis said: Our interventional surgical cardiac service aims to improve the lives of many individuals across the Middle East. Arab Health is an ideal platform for us to be able to perform the cardiac demonstration and is an important first-step in increasing the awareness of available cardiac procedures to those residing in the region.



Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals are renowned for their expertise, standards of care and research breakthroughs, he added.-TradeArabia News Service
UAE-based Naffco, a leading producer and supplier of property and life safety solutions, has signed up as the fire and safety sector sponsor at the Gulf Industry Fair (GIF) 2017 to be held at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre.



The Northern Gulf's leading business-to-business industrial show, GIF will be organised by Hilal Conferences and Exhibitions (HCE) from February 7 to 9 under the patronage of HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa the Prime Minister of Bahrain.



A global leader in fire safety and security industries, Naffco which has recently set up its base in Bahrain, said Gulf Industry Fair was an important platform to showcase its credentials as the supplier of first choice for all types of safety and fire protection systems.



Naffcos fire safety and solutions are compliant to the requirements of certifying bodies, local and national government standards and international safety organizations like NFPA, said a statement from HCE.



Khalid Al Khatib, the founder and chief executive of Naffco, believes that success doesnt come as a coincidence.

"Naffcos vision is to become the worlds number one provider of innovative solutions in protecting life, environment and property. In order to successfully achieve the vision we have been supported by the hard work and dedication from all the companys employees team members," remarked Al Khatib.



"They are showing every day that Naffco has the knowledge and more importantly discipline essential for people to trust in their hands their safety and protection," he noted.



Naffco Bahrain will showcase among others the innovative products and services as a source of all types of fire protection systems. It is part of several prestigious projects in Bahrain such as the Al Manar House project in Seef; King Hamad Hospital; and the Mondalez Biscuit Factory plant in Hidd.



Jubran Abdulrahman, the managing director of HCE, said: "Naffcos leadership at Gulf Industry Fair, shows that products manufactured in the GCC do provide first-class fire and safety protection exportable to the global market."



Gulf Industry Fair 2017 is sponsored by the Bahrain Petroleum Company (Bapco) in association with Noga, Aluminium Bahrain (Alba).



Majaal will be leading the Industrial Facilities Sector and Naffco will be supporting the Fire and Safety products and services sector of the event, said the statement from HCE.



Supporting organisations for GIF 2017 includes AHK Saudi Arabia, the German Saudi Arabian Liaison for Economic Affairs , Indias PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Saudi British Economic Offset Programme and Bahrain Industrial Association, it added.-TradeArabia News Service
A Saudi criminal court has declared that it was dropping the case related to the 2015 Makkah crane crash, which claimed 110 lives and injured over 200 pilgrims, due to the lack of jurisdiction over the case, said a report.



The Makkah Criminal Court issued its ruling in the presence of the defendants on trial and the prosecutor; it came after several sessions of deliberations.



The prosecutor had interrogated the defendants before the judge decided to drop the case due to an issue of jurisdiction, reported Arab News.



The court informed the defence team that it will inform them later of the date the legal decision will be formally issued, stated the report.



Reports presented by the Binladin Group during the investigation and court sessions had shown that sudden changes in weather conditions, difficult to forecast, resulted in unusual winds, which in turn caused the collapse of the crane.

The company pointed out that 50 thunderbolts had been recorded on the day in Makkah within a period of only one hour due to the inclement weather conditions. The storm, it stated, was accompanied by heavy rain and thunder, as well as drop in temperature from 45 to 21 degrees Celsius, said the report.



The Civil Defence Department spokesman said that the heavy rain that fell over Makkah on that day reached 40 mm within a very short period of time. The 13 defendants on trial gave their affidavits to the court.



They were absolved of responsibility for the collapse of the crane and the consequent damage due to insufficient evidence, reported Arab News.



Of the three judges, two decided to drop the case; the third maintained that the court has jurisdiction over the case, it stated.

The prosecutor also insisted that the court had jurisdiction and legal competency to look into the case, based on the royal decree issued following the incident, including into charges of loss of life, property damage and negligence.



The Bureau of Investigation and Public Prosecution relied on the results of the investigation, which were submitted to higher authorities, and indicated that the main cause of the accident was the fact that the crane was subjected to heavy winds and had been kept idle in the wrong position, in violation of the operation instructions issued by the manufacturer, said the report.



The defendants were also accused of failing to measure the speed of the wind and to respond to a number of letters from concerned authorities to review the condition of the several cranes at the site, especially the crane that fell, it added.
Saudi Arabias state oil company has hired two US companies - energy consulting services unit Gaffney, Cline & Associates, as well as Dallas-based reserves auditing group DeGolyer and MacNaughton - to assess its crude oil reserves, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing sources.



The audit is a prerequisite for listing Saudi Aramco in the capital markets, which could happen as soon as next year, according to the Journal.



The assessment will play a critical role in determining the value of the company. Aramco is said to be worth between $2 trillion and $3 trillion, according to Saudi Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.



That would put the company well above tech giant Apple's $642 billion market capitalisation. It would also be roughly three times larger than the market cap of the three U.S. supermajors ExxonMobil, Chevron and ConocoPhillips combined.



Gaffney, Cline declined to comment on the matter. Saudi Aramco did not immediately return our request for comment.



Saudi Aramco says it has 261.1 billion barrels of crude oil and condensate reserves. But considering that Opec's leading producer pumps out more than 10 million bpd of crude oil a day, there is uncertainty about the actual size of the reserves.



By comparison, ExxonMobil had about 8 billion barrels of proved crude oil reserves along with approximately 25 billion barrels of proved oil-equivalent reserves, according to its 2015 annual filing with the SEC.
CHEYENNE  A group of Wyoming lawmakers voted Friday to bump up the states minimum wage for non-tipped employees to $7.25 per hour  the same as the federal minimum wage.

If that bill passes both the House and Senate, it would not change much for most Wyoming employees, but would no longer make Wyoming tied for the lowest minimum wage in the country among the states that have minimum wages.

Originally, House Bill 140, brought by Rep. James Byrd, D-Cheyenne, would have raised Wyomings minimum wage to $9.50 an hour for non-tipped employees and $5.50 for tipped employees.

But such an increase was not palatable to members of the House Labor, Health and Social Services Committee, and members amended the bill to simply match the federal wage.

Wyomings current minimum wage is $5.15 an hour, which can be paid by employers not covered by the federal minimum wage.

Only a small portion of Wyoming workers fall under that wage, a representative of the Department of Workforce Services said, since the vast majority of employers are subject to the higher federal minimum wage.

The state and federal minimum wage for tipped employees is $2.13 per hour, and employers are supposed to ensure employees make enough tips to reach the regular minimum wage, or else employers have to make up the difference. The amended bill does not affect the tipped employees wage.

Byrd said the minimum wage should be at least closer to a wage that would pay for basic living expenses for full-time employees.

If you work hard at your job 40 hours a week  you should be entitled to some basic necessities, he said.

Byrd also criticized the current tipped minimum wage.

That wage only works if youre in an economy thats booming, he said.

But the minimum wage increase was opposed by representatives of the states hospitality and convenience store industries, saying minimum wage is supposed to be an entry-level wage.

They also said that market forces dictate wages, and some entities pay higher than the minimum wage to attract employees.

Chris Brown of the Wyoming Restaurant and Lodging Association said businesses would not be able to absorb the cost of raising the wage by as much as Byrd proposed. Nearly all employers in his industry already fall under the federal minimum wage, he said.

Don Johnson of the Johnson Restaurant Group in Casper said many tipped employees end up making between $10 and $20 per hour, and his company pays non-tipped employees above the minimum wage.

Still, he said Byrds proposed increases would be hard for his businesses and the industry.

Tom Jones also spoke on behalf of the Wyoming Petroleum Marketers Association, which represents convenience stores. He said minimum wage jobs are a way to get people started in the workforce.

Were not causing people to starve, he said.

Marguerite Herman of the League of Women Voters supported the increase, pointing out Wyomings minimum wage is lower that its neighbors, and higher wages could encourage people to stay in the state.

If we had a $9.50 minimum wage, it would be an added incentive for these young families to stay in Wyoming, she said.

Mark Aronowitz of the Lawyers and Advocates for Wyoming also favored an increase, saying it would help stimulate the economy.

Research shows that higher wages will sharply reduce employee turnover, he said, adding, This isnt welfare of any kind. You dont get a better minimum wage if youre not working.

Byrd told committee members to ask tipped employees they encounter about their situation to see how existing laws affect workers.

Ask them how much theyre making, he said. Ask them if they have more than one job.

According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, every state around Wyoming has a higher state-level minimum wage for non-tipped employees.

Utah and Idaho have matched the $7.25 federal wage; Montana is set at $8.15 for all businesses, except those with less than $110,000 in annual sales, which have a $4 minimum wage; South Dakota is set at $8.65; Nebraska is at $9, and Colorado is at $9.30.

Colorados minimum wage will increase to $12 by 2020.

In all, 29 states have wages above federal minimum wage, and five states, all in the South, have no minimum wage.

The Labor Committee advanced the wage increase to $7.25 by a 5-4 vote.

Reps. Eric Barlow, R-Gillette; Mike Gierau, D-Jackson; Timothy Hallinan, R-Gillette; Marti Halverson, R-Etna; and JoAnn Dayton, D-Rock Springs, voted in favor of the bill.

Reps. Scott Clem, R-Gillette; Lars Lone, R-Cheyenne; Joe MacGuire, R-Casper; and Pat Sweeney, R-Casper, voted against the bill. Lone was not present for the meeting but left a no vote for the bill.
Casper, Wyoming

June 26, 1940January 24, 2017

Was born June 26th, 1940 in Anaconda, Montana to Larry F. Dionne and Mary J. (Wilson) Dionne, he passed on January 24th, 2017 at 12:10 pm in Casper, Wyoming at Central Wyoming Hospice with a battle of cancer which he fought very bravely over two years, at the age of 76.

He lived in the San Francisco and Seattle area until 1946. One Brother, David, was born during this time. His parents went their separate ways, he and David went to live with Mary and Richard (Sandy) R. Smith (the best stepdad one could ever have). He then went to live in Superior, Montana and Wallace, Idaho. One sister, Kathleen and brother, Ralph were born, Garys mother died in child birth with twins. Gary and David then came to live with their dad and stepmom Edna, (best stepmom one could ever have). Two brothers, Ron and Eugene, and one sister, Teresa were born.

Gary went to School first and second grade in Superior, Montana, third and fourth grade in Wallace, Idaho, fifth through eighth grade at Elk Creek Grade School, ninth through twelfth grade at Kellogg Senior High School both in Kellogg, Idaho. He graduated in 1958.

He worked almost a year, 3700 feet underground at the Sunshine Mine in Big Creek, Idaho. He joined the US Navy in 1959. First duty station, RTC located in San Diego, California. Second duty station, MMA School Naval Station in Chicago, Illinois. Third duty station, Naval Hub Base in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. He saw the start of the building of the Arizona Memorial, the Making of the movie, The Wackiest Ship in The Army and title wave from earth quake in Peru. Fourth duty station, USS Mispillion AO105. Fifth duty station, USS Navasota AO106; cruised to Hobart Tasmania, Adelaide and Melbourne, Australia, for the USS Coral Sea CV43 celebration. Pulled into Long Beach, California, at the start of Cuban Missile Crisis (October of 1962).

Gary was discharged from the US Navy, and went back to work at the Sunshine Mine. He saw no future at 3700 feet underground, went back into the US Navy. Seventh duty station, USS Steinaker DDR863. Eighth duty station, USS Eaton DD510, pulled spy ship out of Havana Harbor, Cuba. Ninth duty station, USS Sacrame into AOR5. Part of fleet during the USS Pueblo Crisis when captured by North Koreans. Tenth duty station, RTC San Diego was company Commander. Stayed single never got married, and never got hung for maltreatment. Eleventh duty station, USS Wabash AOR5, which he was a plank owner for commissioning the Ship, November 20th, 1971. Trip from Boston, MA to Long Beach, CA, via tip of South America.

March 18th, 1972 he met his future wife. On July 22nd, 1972 he married his wife, Dorothy Rose Ferrante and his daughter, Samantha Lynn.

Ship changed port from Long Beach to Alameda, California where daughter, Marie Antoinette was born March 4th, 1974. Twelfth duty station, Naval Station Long Beach California, managed enlisted barracks and was PMS Coordinator for Port Services. Garys son, Kari Lawrence was born September 7th, 1976. Thirteenth duty station, USS Coral Sea CV-43, was part of the Iranian Hostage Rescue Attempt. Last tour was March 1981 to April 1981 the Pineapple Cruise.

Gary retired from US Navy in July of 1981 after over 22 years of service. He received a Vietnam Service Medal with a Bronze Star and ten other awards of valor. He then ended up in Casper, Wyoming. Where he worked for National Machine, Compressor Pump and Engine, and National Oil Well Varco.

Gary enjoyed watching the news, building models, reading books and the newspaper, and listening to books on CD with his wife, while getting to travel the last couple of years. He enjoyed spending time with his pets, as well as with his grandchildren, teaching while receiving life lessons. Fishing with his sons, camping at the lake and mountains with all of his family, even getting to go for a 4 wheeler ride for the first time and not realizing that we had such beautiful country so close to home.

Those who have passed are his mother, father, two sisters, three brothers, step-parents, mother-in-law and son-in-law.

He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Rose; children, Samantha (Elgin) Dehoff of Evansville, WY, Marie Dionne of Forks, WA, Shad (LeaAnn) Caulfield, and Kari (Cheryl) Dionne both of Casper, WY; ten grandchildren, Melinda, Dylan, Rachael, Kimberlee, Mathew, Frank Cary, Wyatt, Corbin, Katelynn and Landon; expecting his first great-grandchild; brothers, Ron (Sharon) of Coeur dAlene, ID, and Eugene of Spokane, WA; sister, Kathleen Dorset of Wenatchee, WA; his lifelong military brother, Allen McNerney; and numerous nieces, nephews and in-laws.

A memorial service will be held 1:00 PM, Sunday, February 5th, 2017 at VFW Casper Memorial Post, 1800 Bryan Stock Trail, Casper, Wyoming.

In lieu of flowers and gifts please make donations to Central Wyoming Hospice; 319 S. Wilson Casper, WY, 82601, Must have in memory of Gary Dionne on donation.
The Casper City Council has tentatively approved a low-interest loan for the Casper Housing Authority to buy the former Roosevelt High School building to use as a veterans housing and community center.

While the Natrona County School Districts sale of the Roosevelt building was announced earlier this month, the agreement was contingent on the city agreeing to finance the housing authoritys purchase. That happened Tuesday.

The housing authoritys plan calls for creating a one-stop shop for veterans with a Veterans Affairs clinic and a program to help veterans learn how to farm. Low-income housing for veterans will be on the top floor of the building.

CHA director Kim Summerall-Wright said that she could not finalize deals with outside groups like the VA, or receive federal grants, until the city approved the $432,749 loan needed to officially purchase the property.

We cant agree to anything until we buy the building, Summerall-Wright told council.

Summerall-Wright said that because the housing authority is a public agency rather than a nonprofit, it is not eligible for bank loans because banks are not allowed to seize government assets in the case of a default.

The city is pretty much the only place we can finance, she said.

In addition to the purchase price covered by the low-income city loan, the housing authority needs about $2 million to remodel the high school as a community center and to create the apartments.

Councilman Chris Walsh, who is a veteran, expressed concern that CHA might not be able to secure the additional funding.

If that wasnt to come through, then we have a high school? he asked.

Summerall-Wright said that her agency has a successful record of securing outside money after an initial contribution from the city.

She cited the 50-unit CentrePoint apartments project. For that project, the city gave $480,000 for the purchase of a condemned building, and the agency was able to secure an additional $9 million in funding to complete the renovation.

Weve leveraged it into more, and well do that this time, Summerall-Wright said.

Council gave approval for staff to draft an exact loan agreement, but it will likely charge 2 percent interest over a 15- or 20-year term.

Several council members expressed concern over how the low-income loan would cost the city.

Id hate for us to lose money on it, said councilman Bob Hopkins.

City Manager V.H. McDonald said the money would come from the perpetual care fund, which currently earns less than 2 percent interest.

But McDonald said that over a 15- or 20-year period, the fund has historically earned more than 2 percent, making it difficult to measure the cost of the loan.

Council was generally supportive of the project both because of an interest in helping veterans and because creating low-income housing for homeless vets will save the city money.

Summerall-Wright said that the average homeless person in Casper costs the public about $55,000 per year in emergency room visits and other expenses.

The low-income housing costs about $6,500 per year.

I just think this is going to improve the situation for our veterans, whether theyre homeless or not, said councilwoman Amanda Huckabay, who like Walsh is a veteran.

Huckabay specifically cited the current VA clinic location at Sunrise Shopping center in south Casper as difficult to get to. She said a move to the Roosevelt site in north Casper would make it much more accessible.

Summerall-Wright said the clinic had been looking to expand for the past five years but had not been able to find a suitable site until the Roosevelt building was suggested by the CHA.

The project will also include a program designed to help veterans learn to grow and sell vegetables in an urban setting and mental health services that would help homeless veterans transition to permanent housing.

Its an awesome program, said councilman Todd Murphy. I see no reason why we wouldnt move on that. The population needs help.

A CHA report provided to council said Wyoming has the seventh-most veterans of any state in the country and that there are 5,092 veterans in Casper. The report said 8.1 percent are living at or below the poverty level.
Superintendents across the state are trying to assess two major pieces of education legislation released last week that could significantly affect the future of school funding in Wyoming.

Its no secret, the officials acknowledged, that Wyoming in general, and education in particular, are facing a fiscal crisis. The numbers are bleak: The funding shortfall for schools will be $400 million annually in the coming years and could hit $1.8 billion by the end of the 2022 fiscal year, officials estimate.

A number of bills have been brought before the Legislature in its first three weeks to address the crisis. Some deal with class size, while others would amend the states constitution to give the Legislature more legal leeway to change how schools are funded.

But the two most prominent bills were released last week. One, an omnibus bill designated House Bill 236, would freeze special education and transportation spending at existing levels while slashing instructional facilitator funding, reducing the number of school operational days and stripping schools of some of the excess funding the Legislature has been providing them for years.

The omnibus measure would also take money annually from the Legislatures rainy day fund to help the main schools account, divert a 1 percent severance tax to education and increase the state sales tax if savings dip too low.

The other bill, Senate File 114, would institute a series of cuts, from addressing education and transportation costs to increasing class sizes and reducing funding for instructional facilitators.

Both bills raised concerns among superintendents. Reductions are necessary, they acknowledge, but many worry about the lasting effects these cuts will have on the success of its roughly 93,000 public school students in a state thats prided itself on its well-funded education system.

Certainly, I think every district will try to continue forward movement, but when you start talking about cutting teachers and increasing class sizes, said Donna Little-Kaumo, the superintendent of Sweetwater County School District No. 2. In three to five years, were going to be regretful of what happens now.

Robbing Peter to pay Paul

Both bills would target special education. The omnibus would freeze spending at current levels while lawmakers calibrate new ones. The Senate bill would cut costs by 10 percent. Its not the first time lawmakers have raised the possibility of looking hard at special education: Because 100 percent of special education dollars spent at the local level are reimbursed by the state, it may be an attractive option for legislators looking to chip away at the looming shortfall.

Last month, Sen. Hank Coe, a Cody Republican and a co-sponsor of the Senate bill, said he thought legislators would take a look at special education costs.

I think everything is on the table for consideration, he said.

But that raises concerns for district officials. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act requires free appropriate public education. And the potential that special education could be cut by 10 percent  or frozen  leaves officials wondering if theyll fall short of meeting their federal requirements.

Because districts must continue providing a consistent maintenance of effort, any cuts to special education would have to be made up elsewhere in the districts block grant, which is the money guaranteed to each district that they can generally use as they see fit.

Brian Farmer, the executive director for the Wyoming School Boards Association, explained that maintenance of effort means, generally speaking, that districts must continue providing what theyve provided in the past. So legislation that proposes cuts to special education could be problematic, he said.

You cant cut 10 percent, which for our district is $670,000, and then get a federal grant (to make up for it) and try to win that argument because youre not, Little-Kaumo said. Youd have to take it from general fund.

On top of the existing standards, the U.S. Supreme Court recently heard arguments in a Colorado case involving further standards school districts must implement.

Depending on the high courts ruling, that case has the potential to raise the bar that districts must meet, said Jay Harnack, the superintendent for Sublette County School District No. 1. With cuts, that means dipping even more into districts general fund.

The message from superintendents who spoke to the Star-Tribune was consistent: Cuts or a freeze to special education funding meant the money would have to come from elsewhere. Officials would find themselves stuck between a legislative rock and a federally mandated hard place.

Its robbing Peter to pay Paul, which will ultimately happen, Harnack said.

Teachers and high standards

Several officials also expressed concern about the effect the bills would have on staffing: The cuts proposed in either the Senate bill or the Houses omnibus measure would likely mean layoffs.

Oh, absolutely, said Charles Auzqui, the superintendent for Sheridan County School District No. 3, when asked if he was concerned about what the proposals would mean for his staffing.

Im not sure our parents understand our elementary schools will lose a teacher at every grade level, Harnack said, referring to the effects of the provisions in the Senate bill that would increase class sizes.

As much as 85 percent of districts budgets is tied up in personnel costs, such as salaries and benefits. A continued 1.4 percent reduction, which is a provision in the current omnibus bill, or increasing class sizes would likely force many districts hands with layoffs.

Whats clear is that different proposed cuts are going to have significant impacts on individual districts, and the reality of that is that people are going to lose their jobs, Farmer said.

Natrona County School District Superintendent Steve Hopkins reiterated what hes said before: The districts board of trustees has placed a high priority on avoiding layoffs. He said he thinks the omnibus bill will allow them to do that, particularly because the cuts included in it are folded into the larger pool of money that comes to the district. That will allow the board to work the remaining dollars to fit the districts needs.

But he expressed more concern about the Senate bill because of the somewhat ambiguous fiscal impact the bill would have on districts. Its hard to get a grip on what its passage would mean for Natrona County, he said.

I cant tell what theyre doing with reductions in the budget right now, he said of the Senate bill.

The omnibus bill would cut schools operational days from 185 to 180 by cutting professional development days, which would mean that teachers lose a weeks pay, or about 2.7 percent, officials said.

Just cutting the five professional days, thats going to be about $1.5 million for Campbell County, said Boyd Brown, the countys superintendent. We cant do that without reducing contracts for all of our teachers or losing staff members.

His district has also been hit hard by dropping enrollment, a measurement of which determines how much money districts are guaranteed.

The Senate bill would raise standards, mandating that 90 percent of students must be reading at grade level by the time they reach third grade. It would also cut funding for instructional facilitators, who serve as teachers for teachers, helping districts implement their goals and curriculum down through the ranks.

Theres this expectation that we move toward continuous improvement at all times, while at the same time, this is designed to limit our ability to do that, Harnack said. Its going to be hard to focus everyone on continuous improvement when we have less staff members and less days to do that work. ... (The omnibus) would significantly reduce our districts ability to deliver the required basket of goods.

The potential cuts come as Wyoming is being recognized for its education system. This month, a survey by Education Week ranked Wyoming seventh in the nation for education quality, including top marks for school funding. Wyoming students also beat out the national average on a national test.

Educators are worried about backsliding.

Im concerned for our ability to provide our kids with an outstanding education. I think its threatened right now, Harnack said. I think the potential exists in the very near future that it gets deconstructed. For the kids that we serve, Im a little bit sad for that potential.

Brown said he fears Wyoming will go the way of states like Wisconsin. In February 2012, Politifact verified a claim that Gov. Scott Walker enacted the biggest cuts to education in (Wisconsin) history. That included $792 million in cuts to K-12 schools.

Its unlikely Wyoming, with its constitutional protection for education, will see cuts that drastic. But Little-Kaumo, who has been outspoken in the past about a potential decline in student success as cuts come down the line, agreed with her colleagues.

The idea that were considering changing, that is going to hurt the uniqueness of Wyoming, she said. If we do that kind of thing, I think its going to affect student performance.

She was referring specifically to another provision in the omnibus bill, which would cut the salaries of administrators, like superintendents and business managers, by 10 percent. That would bring business managers salaries in the education funding model down to around $43,000 and then $38,000.

The strict letter of the bill would affect superintendents pay in the model as well, taking it down to below the salaries for principals. Little-Kaumo said provisions like that would make it difficult to bring people to Wyoming.

She explained that though the model dictates paying teachers around $36,000, her district starts at $46,000. Otherwise, she said, theyd be hard-pressed to bring educators to Green River. The same can be said for superintendents: The bill calls for paying them roughly $70,000 in the coming years, but she said no superintendent makes that amount for the same reason teachers arent paid $36,000.

Youre not going to get a (business manager) for $43,000, she said. So theyre saying, You guys are way overpaid. Well, were not way overpaid. You cannot hire a teacher in Wyoming for $36,000. Theyre not going to come here.

Looking ahead

Still, for their reservations, some officials were heartened by the omnibus holistic approach: While it would impose millions in cuts, it would also include savings and potential revenue streams to keep those savings viable.

The board sees the omnibus bill as a balanced approach that is in line with the white paper, Hopkins said, referring to a report released late last month that outlined many of the proposals that wound up in the omnibus bill.

Because many of the provisions would be part of the block grant, it allows his board fiscal flexibility, he said.

Brown, the superintendent from Campbell County, agreed.

In the omnibus bill, theyre moving all the categorical grants inside the model, which I really appreciate as well, he said, noting that he would be in Cheyenne to testify about legislation.

Harnack, of Sublette County, said he thought Wyomings emphasis on education funding is a point of pride for the state and for legislators, but he worried about what the future holds.

This is a business based on human capital, he said. With reductions in human capital can almost certainly be followed by reductions in performance.
A Cheyenne legislator wants to amend civil rights-era legislation to bar transgender individuals from using public bathrooms in Wyoming.

People would be subject to imprisonment for using a bathroom that does not correspond to their sex identified at birth by the persons anatomy under House Bill 244, which would expand the crime of public indecency.

To be charged with public indecency under the existing law, a person must engage in an activity with the intent of arousing the sexual desire of himself or another person.

Sponsor Rep. Lars Lone, R-Cheyenne, declined to speak with a Star-Tribune reporter at the Wyoming Legislature.

Bathroom bills, meant to bar transgender people from using public restrooms, have become popular among socially conservative Republican legislators around the country.

Transgender peoples gender does not match the sex they were assigned at birth. For example, a transgender womans birth certificate might list her as a male. But House Bill 244 would bar even individuals whose birth certificate has been amended to reflect their gender.

Lones bill would also amend Wyomings anti-discrimination law.

The law governing access to public accommodations, passed in 1957, allows all persons of good deportment access to any public establishment and bars discrimination on the basis of race, religion, color, sex or national origin.

House Bill 244 would make that legislation subject to the new definition of public indecency and allow barring access to bathrooms on the basis of sex. People convicted of using the wrong bathroom would be guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by up to six months imprisonment, a $750 fine or both.

The anti-discrimination statute was originally passed after Republican Gov. Milward L. Simpson warned the Legislature that by the mid-1950s Wyoming was one of the only non-southern states that did not permit all citizens access to public accommodations, according to an article in the history journal Annals of Wyoming.

House Bill 244 would allow cleaning staff and people providing medical aid to enter any bathroom they need.

Legislator wants law governing bathroom use in Wyoming CHEYENNE  A legislator from Campbell County wants a state law governing which bathroom Wyom

While Rep. Roy Edwards, R-Gillette, announced his intention to file a bathroom bill several weeks ago, he has not yet done so.

Only Rep. Mark Jennings, R-Sheridan, has co-sponsored Lones bill.

While he could not be reached for comment by the Star-Tribune, Lone told the Wyoming Tribune Eagle before the legislative session began that his main priority was solving the states budget deficit.

Reduce spending is the first goal we have to accomplish, Lone said.

In addition to House Bill 244, Lone has sponsored five other bills, including one that would require all Internet-enabled electronics sold in Wyoming to include software blocking obscene material like pornography, a bill that would make it easier to stop making alimony payments and a bill that would require voters to show photo identification at the polls.

House Bill 244 was filed Thursday and has yet to be assigned to a committee.

State politics reporter Laura Hancock contributed to this article from Cheyenne.
With so many new legislators this year, I suppose it was inevitable that they had to work their way through the nest of divisive social issue bills that lawmakers in previous sessions have rejected.

It is like an orientation to explosive legislation.

The copy of the infamous North Carolina bathroom bill and other anti-gay proposals before this session marred the states reputation at a time when Wyoming could use some new industries.

I expect the Legislature again to show good sense in dealing with the extremist bills and devote themselves to the big job at hand  the budget deficit.

I was interested in one unusual bill that could have cleared up the deficit without cutting agencies or raising taxes.

Sounds ideal, doesnt it?

Well, it never got out of the House Appropriations Committee.

Sponsored by Rep. Tim Hallinan, a Gillette Republican, House Joint Resolution 5 was a proposed constitutional amendment that would have diverted severance tax money from going into the Permanent Mineral Trust Fund for six years.

Instead, the millions of dollars would go into the general fund for the Legislature to use as necessary.

Voters would first have to approve the diversion in the 2018 elections.

The diversion would begin on July 1, 2019, and continue for six years.

The proposal appeared to offer a clean, efficient way to solve the money problem without mucking around in state agency budgets and tax options.

This seems to me to offer the best chance to avert the budget crisis in which we find ourselves in and would prevent the institution of new taxes, Hallinan wrote in an email. I set the term of the change to the Constitution to last for 6 years as this is the term of expected financial difficulty.

The amendment, had it been in effect, could have provided $287 million in 2016 and $615 million in 2014. The amount includes the diverted severance, divided, and interest from the funds corpus.

The committee members who opposed the bill said they believed they can solve the financial problem with tax increases and program cuts, Hallinan wrote.

Another factor could have been reluctance to tamper with the PMTF corpus.

We shall see what the Legislature comes up with to solve the budget deficit.

Meanwhile Senate File 156 is another interesting bill  one that still is alive and a cinch to pass since it is sponsored by the leaders of the House and Senate.

SF156 would create yet another state commission. This one is called the Wyoming Spending and Government Efficiency Commission.

It is in keeping with the trend of state governments to reinvent themselves every 25 years, an issue I addressed in last weeks column.

Wyoming reorganized government in the late 1980s and early 1990s. But that effort concentrated on management and government structure. Among other things it resulted in creation of a cabinet-style of state government.

The 2017 commissions goal appears to be primarily to find savings  quickly. This is not a leisurely study. The bill requires the commission to report to the governor and the Legislatures management council by Nov. 30.

It also appropriates $500,000 to hire expert consultants. It will go into effect as soon as its passed and is signed by the governor.

The commission will include only six members.

The Legislatures management council gets to appoint three members, including one from the private sector and one each from the House and Senate.

The governor appoints two, including one from the private sector. The chief justice of the Wyoming Supreme Court names the sixth member, who cannot vote.

No member can be a state employee.

This study is one to watch.

This session has produced a wealth of health-related bills  so many, in fact, that the House Labor, Health and Social Services Committee is overrun and the bills are sent to non-health committees, like Minerals and Corporations.

Another prediction I will make is that one of those health-related bills will fail. House Bill 107 would allow chiropractors to re-name themselves chiropractic physicians.

Physicians apparently get better reimbursement from insurance companies.

The Wyoming Medical Society is actively lobbying against the bill, according to the organizations online newsletter.
Wyoming has great schools  schools of which Wyoming parents, teachers and students are justifiably proud.

Our teachers, administrators and parents collaborate to advance the dreams and careers of Wyomings next generation every day. The Legislature is proud to do our part, year after year, in supporting these efforts and ensuring student success through quality classrooms.

Over the last two decades, the Wyoming Legislature has invested over $22.3 billion in education. Weve opened more than 24 new schools and renovated hundreds more, making great progress on the large backlog of school facility projects across the state. Weve supported the University of Wyoming and community colleges, grown scholarship funds, prioritized early childhood education and expanded vocational and technical training opportunities.

In looking at approaches to address Wyomings current education funding shortfall during the interim, the Joint Education Committee remained dedicated to meeting our obligation to every parent, student and teacher by providing adequate, stable funding to every Wyoming school.

That said, Wyoming faces some tough days ahead. The nature of our economy is boom and bust. That cycle has always made our highs exceptional and our lows harrowing. As chairmen of the Wyoming House and Senate Education Committees, we came to this session with our eyes wide open about the severity of the funding shortfall Wyoming schools face.

Its a tough time for many Wyoming families who, just like the state, have less money coming in the door today than when times were good, while the same amount of money goes out every month. Those financial hits come fast and sting like a one-two punch.

Just like the family that sits down at the kitchen table and talks about where the household can cut back and who can pick up some extra work, the Wyoming Legislature must make some tough choices on the revenue and spending sides of the funding equation. We must face facts about the reality of Wyomings education funding sources, like the loss of federal coal lease payments, and plan for the future without that revenue.

Moving forward this session with no action and keeping our fingers crossed that revenues will improve is simply not an option. Wyomings school funding shortfall for operations and capital construction will only grow out of control if we do not begin to institute some meaningful reforms now.

Based on current estimates, Wyoming will face an annual shortfall of $360 million in fiscal years 2019 and 2020 and an annual shortfall of $400 million in fiscal years 2021 and 2022 for funding the daily operations of Wyoming schools. This does not include the deficit we face for schools capital construction and major maintenance.

The total estimated education funding shortfall over the next five years is nearly $1.8 billion. Thats $200 million more than Wyoming currently has in its rainy day savings fund (the Legislative Stabilization Reserve Account).

As it stands today, our education system is operating at a deficit. The Wyoming Legislature has already authorized the use of every dollar in the state education systems savings accounts. By the end of this two-year budget cycle, those accounts will be drawn down to zero.

As the economic downturn gained momentum last spring, the Education Committee tasked the Subcommittee on Deficit Reduction Options with developing a list of possible funding approaches that the House and Senate Education Committees could then bundle into comprehensive solutions. Many of the central tenets in the House and Senate education legislation introduced earlier this week came out of a white paper authored by that subcommittee.

In the white paper, the subcommittee identified five key approaches for developing substantive solutions to our education operations funding problem: spending reductions, use of savings, diversions of current funding streams, spending policy changes and revenue enhancements. The white paper emphasized that not one but all of the approaches should be considered in concert to fully and adequately solve Wyomings education funding shortfall.

The House omnibus bill includes all five of the sub-committees recommended approaches. All revenue bills must begin in the House, so the Senate bills do not include any revenue enhancements but largely follow other recommendations from the subcommittees white paper.

All the pieces are now on the board. As we proceed through the legislative process, House and Senate leaders will collaborate to put the best pieces of each chambers bills together in a fashion that works for Wyoming students, teachers and parents.

In closing, let us take a minute to ask Wyoming citizens interested in this issue to please reach out to your legislators this session. Your input in this process is key to our chances of success.

Moving forward this session with no action and keeping our fingers crossed that revenues will improve is simply not an option.
CHILE

100-plus wildfires continuing to spread

CONCEPCION  Flames from more than 100 raging wildfires in Chile continued spreading from the mountains to the Pacific coast, destroying forests, livestock and entire towns in a destructive path that is now dangerously close to the city of Concepcion.

Authorities said they found a body Friday, raising the overall death toll to 11. About 118 fires remain active and 53 of those are contained.

Officials were hopeful that light rains and lower temperatures would provide some relief.

President Michelle Bachelet has called the wildfires the worst forest disaster in Chiles history.

BOLIVIA

19 trapped in mine

by dynamite are saved

LA PAZ  Bolivian police on Friday rescued 19 wildcat miners who were trapped inside a mine by a rival group using dynamite.

Police said that about 100 miners used dynamite blasts to block the mines entrance and took control of another way out of the Asientos mine. The trapped miners were later rescued unharmed from the silver, lead and zinc mine that is located some 200 miles southeast of the Bolivian capital.

Police said that miners on both sides had begun mediated talks with local authorities to resolve their conflict over the mines resources.

AUSTRIA

Government wont aid

non-Muslim Iranians

VIENNA  Austria has shut its door to about 300 non-Muslim Iranians hoping to use the country as a way station before establishing new homes in the United States, The Associated Press has learned. The action is an early ripple effect of President Trumps effort to clamp down on refugee admissions.

Under a 27-year-old program originally approved by Congress to help Jews in the former Soviet Union, Austria had been serving until recently as a conduit for Iranian Jews, Christians and Bahai, who were at risk in their home country and eligible to resettle in the United States. Iran has banned the Bahai religion, which was founded in 1844 by a Persian nobleman considered a prophet by followers.

SOMALIA

Rebels clash with military, dozens dead

MOGADISHU  The al-Shabab extremist group attacked a Kenyan military base inside Somalia with a car bomb and machine guns early Friday, and both the insurgents and Kenyas military claimed dozens of deaths on the opposite side.

Nine soldiers  two officers and seven servicemen  were killed and more than 70 al-Shabab extremists died in the base attack, Col. Paul Njuguna, the Kenyan military spokesman, said in a statement.

Two Kenyan police officers also were killed and four seriously wounded when their vehicle struck an improvised explosive device while they were crossing into Somalia to respond to the attack, a Kenyan official said.

CANADA

GM is switching 600 auto jobs to Mexico

LONDON  General Motors Canada is cutting 625 jobs at its assembly plant near London, Ontario, and moving those jobs to Mexico, where labor is cheaper, GM Canadas union spokesman said Friday.

Unifor Local 88 spokesman Mike Van Boekel said the layoffs will take effect in July at the CAMI Assembly plant in Ingersoll, which currently employs 2,800 Unifor workers.

Unifors national president, Jerry Dias, said the decision reeks of corporate greed and is a clear sign that the North American Free Trade Agreement must be renegotiated.

U.S. President Trump has told Mexico and Canada he wants to renegotiate NAFTA, or perhaps even scrap it.

ITALY

Knights of Malta insist on sovereignty

ROME  The Knights of Malta is still insisting on its sovereignty in its showdown with the Vatican, even after Pope Francis effectively took control of the ancient religious order and announced a papal delegate would govern it through a process of renewal.

The Knights current grand master, Fra Matthew Festing, was at work Friday at the orders swanky Rome palazzo near the Spanish Steps, pending a meeting of his governing council to either accept or reject his resignation.

The Saturday meeting is no rubber-stamp formality: Its evidence of the orders sovereign status under international law, which is recognized by the more than 100 countries that have diplomatic relations with the Knights of Malta and essentially consider it a state.

Wire reports
Southern Arizona business and political leaders involved in cross-border economic initiatives are scrambling to quell resentment and fear over the feud between the U.S. and Mexican presidents.

A demand that Mexico pay for a proposed border wall resulted in Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto calling off a scheduled visit to Washington.

Closer to home, many residents in northern Mexico who would have made a trip north to Tucsons malls this weekend stayed home and are urging friends and relatives to stop buying U.S. products or eating at U.S. chain restaurants operating in Mexico.

There are many implications to the country as a whole, but to border communities especially, said J. Felipe Garcia, executive vice president of Visit Tucson. Mexicans are offended and want to stop shopping in the U.S. and stop buying U.S. products.

We need that market of shoppers who spend $1 billion a year in Pima County.

But, might there be some who think its a good thing for those shoppers to stay south of the border?

We need those sales tax collections, Garcia said. If we lose that sales tax we have to make up for it somehow, like higher taxes.

Lea Marquez-Peterson, president of the Tucson Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, said there is already concern from business owners in Tucson, Nogales, Douglas and Sierra Vista.

We must consider the impact and threat to our local economies; to the business owners loss of revenues and the loss of sales tax, hotel taxes, gas taxes, etc., she said.

Shopping dollars lost by securing the border pale in comparison to what U.S. residents will save, said Ira Mehlman, media director with the Federation for American Immigration Reform.

Enhanced border security needs to be brought to fruition, no matter who pays for it, he said. Even if U.S. citizens paid for it, it would be worth it versus what it costs to take care of illegal immigrants.

Improved security wouldnt just benefit U.S. residents, Mehlman said.

It would also benefit the people coming across to shop and do legitimate things, he said.

Garcia said there are social media efforts underway to keep Mexicans from spending money on U.S. products.

Vamos a Tucson (Lets go to Tucson) signs have been photoshopped to read ibamos a Tucson (We used to go to Tucson).

Whats happening is bringing out nationalism on both sides of the border, Garcia said. No one wins in that situation.

TRADE RELATIONSHIP

HANGS IN THE BALANCE

Manufacturers already doing business in northern Mexico are nervously watching the political drama.

As the White House throws out ideas such as a 20 percent tax on imports from Mexico to pay for the border wall, top Mexican officials say the country might simply walk away from NAFTA.

Mexico has trade agreements with 45 countries and could cozy up to the Chinese if no longer bound by NAFTA.

China is very active in Mexico, Garcia said. If the U.S. decides to take a side role with trade, China is ready to step up. This is a big disruption.

Marquez-Peterson said the chamber is working with other chambers to drive that message to D.C.

We plan to continue our advocacy  on building rather than diminishing the relationship with Mexico to remain globally competitive against China, she said.

Since taking office in 2011, Tucson Mayor Jonathan Rothschild has made improved relations with Mexico a top priority.

The only remedy is constant communication, letting our friends and business partners in Mexico know that there are many of us in Arizona who believe these policies are wrong, he said. I will be asking Gov. Ducey, who has based much of his prosperity plans for the state on trade relations with Mexico, to speak up.

Senators (John) McCain and (Jeff) Flake must also continue to speak up against what they know is damaging to the state and country.

The Tucson-based Offshore Group is the largest private-sector employer in Sonora. Its manufacturing parks in Empalme and Guaymas have clients from around the world, and Offshore provides the labor and support.

It employs more than 20,000 employees in Mexico; 14,000 of them in Sonora. The tough talk coming out of the White House has put many employees and clients on edge.

The idea that the U.S. economy is stronger by excluding its neighbors is equivalent to the idea the U.S.s global interests are safer without its allies around the world, said Eduardo R. Saavedra, executive vice president of business development for Offshore. The challenge Americans and more specifically Arizonans face today is to understand how our economic, social and political relationship with Mexico strengthens us globally.

If we took the same energy expended today to derail what has been built over the years and instead improved upon it, logic would say we will be better off.

He said many people lack an understanding of how the cross-border relationship is beneficial.
While economists and politicians bemoan the shipping of U.S. jobs overseas, the goal of a new University of Arizona program is to bring companies to Tucson from across the country and the globe.

Global Advantage, a program of Tech Parks Arizona, aims to recruit new businesses to the UA Tech Park on South Rita Road by offering an array of product-development and business support.

The current Global Advantage program is a retool of a program of the same name launched in 2004, which aimed to attract foreign companies by working with technology business incubators in other countries.

We played at it for a while but it just didnt seem to get much traction, said Bruce Wright, associate UA vice president for Tech Parks Arizona.

In 2014, the UA reworked the program to focus on identifying and recruiting companies that are eager to partner with the UA in six technology areas.

Global Advantage took on a couple of clients then, but has since shifted its offices to a tech park building at 9070 S. Rita Road and now has four companies signed up for the program, including one original client.

Partners in the effort include Tucson Electric Power Co., industrial fabricator CAID Industries, The Offshore Group, commercial real-estate broker PICOR/Cushman Wakefield and the Arizona Technology Council, which recently moved its Southern Arizona office to the Global Advantage building.

The program focuses on six technology areas: advanced energy, including solar and other renewables; aerospace and defense; agriculture, water and arid-lands technology; biosciences, with a focus on medical devices and diagnostics; mining technology; and intelligent transportation systems.

Wright says the UA and Tucson have deep expertise in those areas that can help companies perfect their products, with Tech Park space to accommodate collaborative business development.

While the program is not limited to foreign firms, he said prospective client companies ideally are interested in demonstrating their products to the North American market and want to access huge markets relatively close to Tucson, including California and Texas as well as Mexico.

Global Advantage staff and the programs business partners have spent the last two years building up the programs presence in government and university circles and have made recruitment visits to countries including Mexico, Israel, Germany, Finland, Spain and Canada.

Once signed up, Global Advantage clients get two free years of office space, help in developing a custom business plan, as well as help with such things as staffing and employee relocation, banking, market analysis and networking. After two years, they can pay fees to stay up to two more years.

The hope is, theyll be successful, theyll establish their business permanently in Tucson and Southern Arizona, and we would hope they would consider putting their place of business in the Tech Park, Wright said.

Heres a look at the Global Advantage client companies and what they think of the program:

Cleveland Electric Labs

The 97-year-old maker of temperature sensors for industrial markets began working with the Global Advantage program in 2014 to test a new line of fiber-optic based security sensors, which detect vibration and movement and transmit data through glass-fiber cables.

The company, which has a production plant in Tempe that employs about 40 people, already has developed a line of fiber-optic-based sensors to monitor such things as the structural health of bridges, aircraft engines and pipelines.

The system constantly polls each sensor point and feeds the data into a main network that can be set up to provide various alerts, such as texting security personnel, said Rodger Shepherd, vice president of Cleveland Electric Labs Advanced Technology Group.

The company has been testing its fence-security product on fencing bordering photovoltaic installations since 2014 at the Tech Parks 233-acre Solar Zone demonstration area.

After finding ground-mounted sensors difficult to perfect, the company is now testing a system deployed along the top of about three-quarters of a mile on a chain-link fence guarding the Solar Zone.

The company is in the process of opening an office with engineering and sales staff at Global Advantage, where it will soon begin courting potential customers, said Shepherd, adding that Global Advantage has provided critical help in finding clients and linking with other organizations.

ProAutomation

The 9-year-old Mexican company designs and custom-builds automated manufacturing equipment, working with partners that provide robotics and other components.

Up to now, the company has mainly served Mexicos auto-assembly industry, which employs more than a million people in component and full-vehicle assembly lines in 14 Mexican states, said Mark Marchand, operations director for ProAutomation.

The company has opened a sales office at Global Advantage for now, but plans to open new manufacturing plants in the U.S. and make inroads into the aerospace industry, Marchand said.

The sales office is the start of a full-blown manufacturing facility in various locations in the states  this is in the works, he said.

Marchand, who was referred to Global Advantage by Visit Tucson, gave the program high marks.

They are really, really helping us to launch our initiative in the states, he said. They have been instrumental, their support has been really amazing.

Power Panel

As the name suggests, the Detroit-based companys main business is a hybrid solar panel that generates power from photovoltaics while making hot water.

But the company is expanding into a new product line: modular systems for aquaponics, which combines soil-free hydroponic plant production with fish farming.

The system is based on Power Panels proprietary, modular hot-water storage tanks, which are comprised of thick foam panels, a waterproof liner and a sleeve that holds it all together.

The companys Aquagrove aquaponics system combines a 150-gallon tank for fish with an upper 16-square-foot growing tray or raft. In operation, water from the fish tank is pumped into the planting bed, where the plants use nitrite in the fish waste and essentially filter water returned to the lower tank.

Its a very efficient way to use less water and energy with higher yields of better-quality foods, said Joe Naroditsky, business-development manager for Power Panel.

The company is finalizing plans to place prototype aquaponics systems in high schools, including some local schools, so the company can gather data and students learn about aquaponics.

Naroditsky said Global Advantage has been instrumental in opening doors and making introductions, and the offices there will be base of operations for Power Panels aquaponics business.

Chakratec

The Israeli company has developed a kinetic battery  essentially a system that stores energy in the form of motion  that uses a cylindrical flywheel that is spun up and can produce power as needed.

The system comes in modular blocks, each with a capacity of 3 kilowatt hours, which can be ganged together to megawatt scale.

Chakratec has successfully piloted the system in Israel and hopes to use Global Advantage to demonstrate the technology to the North American market.

We are now working on installations with the leading utilities in Europe, the next step for us is to move to North America, Chakratec CEO Ilan Ben-David said in an email.

Ben-David said that because of multiple levels of regulation, its tough to break into the U.S. market.
A federal magistrate in Tucson is chiding the Border Patrol for trying to hide certain information from the public about its sometimes controversial checkpoints.

In a 55-page recommendation, Bernado Velasco said there is no valid reason for the Department of Homeland Security to refuse to provide records about the location of its checkpoints. The American Civil Liberties Union wants that as part of a broader look into the practices of the Border Patrol in stopping vehicles.

Velasco also rebuffed the contention by Homeland Security that requiring it to divulge information on the nationality and skin complexion of those who are stopped at either fixed checkpoints or roving patrols would be an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy.

And he scoffed at a bid by the agency to hide information about how accurate the dogs their agents use are in sniffing out people and drugs being smuggled.

As long as the government asserts that its canines are reliable, it should not be able to avoid producing records about their reliability, Velasco wrote.

The recommendation comes in a case the ACLU filed in 2014 on behalf of Derek and Jane Bambauer, professors at the James E. Rogers College of Law at the University of Arizona after the plaintiffs said that Homeland Security had not fully responded to their requests for records under the federal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

The incidence of civil rights violations associated with Border Patrols interior enforcement operations, which include interior checkpoints and roving patrol stops, is a matter of pressing public concern, the ACLU wrote in filing the suit. It contends that the budget for U.S. Customs and Border Patrol more than doubled between 2006 and 2014, with a nearly commensurate increase in agents.

As the agency has expanded, reports of Border Patrol abuses in the Arizona-Sonora region and throughout the nation have increased, the lawsuit states. Plaintiffs seek the requested records in order to shed light on Border Patrols extensive but largely opaque interior enforcement operations.

Those checkpoints have been a continued source of contention between the agency and residents of Arivaca, who say agency operations interfere with their lives.

After the lawsuit was filed, the case was put on hold. Attorneys for the government said during that time the agency produced more than 13,000 pages of information.

Based on some of what it got, the ACLU in 2015 issued a report saying that abuse of travelers at Southern Arizona checkpoints was at epidemic levels.

Homeland Security lawyers now want the FOIA lawsuit dismissed, contending they have provided everything they need to disclose.
Tucson police are investing allegations by several elementary school students that they were inappropriately touched by a staff member, officials said.

The Grijalva Elementary School employee was "immediately removed from any contact with students on Wednesday and no longer works for the district,"said Stefanie Boe, a Tucson Unified School District spokeswoman.

School officials and Tucson police are investigating the incident and believe they've identified all the students involved, Grijalva Elementary principal Timothy M. Grivois-Shah, wrote in a letter sent to parents on Thursday.

Because of privacy interests of the involved students and the ongoing police investigation, the school can't provide details of the allegations, Grivois-Shah said.
Fifty-one Tucson bars, restaurants and markets were fined a collective $45,000 in 2016 for liquor law violations, state records show.

The majority of the violations and a large portion of the money collected in 2016 came from smaller fines for taxes, lack of knowledge of liquor laws, no manager agreement on file and employees who hadnt taken the required alcohol training course, according to Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control records.

However, a number of locations were fined thousands of dollars for violations such as serious acts of violence on the premises and failure to protect patrons, and several locations were flagged for not reporting assaults, records show.

The largest fine came from Maloneys Tavern, 213 N. Fourth Ave., which the Star reported last July was fined $8,000 for failure to protect patrons, serious act of violence and an employee drunk on duty.

Rocky Point Drive Thru liquor store, 2526 W. Valencia Road, was fined $5,000 in May for selling liquor to an intoxicated man who was struck by a car 20 minutes after he left the store, according to the records.

During the liquor board and Pima County Sheriff Departments investigation, one of the store employees who was working during the incident said that when the customer came in, he smelled of alcohol and was clearly drunk.

The woman also told investigators she would not have sold alcohol to the man, but she was handling another customer and her co-worker made the sale, records show.

The store was also cited for failure to protect the safety of patrons. The Star reached out to Rocky Point for a comment, but an owner or manager wasnt available.

The Star previously reported that OMalleys Bar and Grill, 247 N. Fourth Ave., was fined $1,625 for failing to report two assaults and having an employee drunk on duty.

Earlier this year, the Star also reported downtown nightclub Hi Fi Kitchen and Cocktails, 345 E. Congress St., was fined $1,500 for repeated acts of violence, which the liquor department defines as two or more incidents in a seven-day period or three within 30 days, the database shows.

Hi Fi manager C.J. Urban said at the time there were issues with fights outside of the building after the bar first opened, but that they report all incidents to the police or the liquor board.

In addition to the fine, Hi Fi was also required to submit a comprehensive security plan to the board and submit proof that all employees had attended liquor-law training, records show.

Another downtown nightclub, Zen, 125 E. Congress St., was fined $2,000 after the liquor board received a tip that employees were taking bribes to allow minors inside.

During a detail with Tucson police, two underage buyers paid the doorman $40 to get in and were able to buy beers, which they handed to an undercover police officer. The doorman and the bartender were criminally cited for failing to get IDs and selling alcohol to minors.

Zen's liquor license holder, Kevin Kramber, declined to comment on the situation.

Prince Market, 952 W. Prince Road, was also fined a hefty amount for selling to minors, paying $5,000 for two separate incidents, and Tonys Liquors, 4717 S. 12th Ave., was fined $3,000.

Tens Nightclub, 5120 E. Speedway, was cited for failure to report an act of violence , after a female employee was assaulted in the bathroom by another woman.

The manager told the employee that because of her injury, she needed to leave the club, but he didnt call for medical attention. The employee went to the hospital and hospital staff called the police due to the type of injury and where she worked, records show.

Investigators found no record that Tens contacted police, violating a mandatory liquor board law. The amount of the fine was unclear from liquor board records.

Several other locations fined lesser amounts for selling to minors include:

Arizona Best Gas, 1570 W. Grant Road.

Beverage Barn, 5770 S. 12th Ave.

Hub, 266 Congress St.

Rancho Rustico Family Mexican Restaurant, 9165 E. Tanque Verde Road.

Taco Giro Mexican Grill, 4140 W. Ina Road.

Viva El Caribe, 1929 E. Grant Road.
WASHINGTON  Heres how area members of Congress voted on major issues in the week that ended Jan. 27.

HOUSE

ABORTIONS, AFFORDABLE CARE ACT: Voting 238 for and 183 against, the House on Jan. 24 passed a GOP-sponsored bill (HR 7) that would prevent taxpayer-subsidized insurance policies in Affordable Care Act marketplaces from covering abortions, which are legal in the U.S. under conditions set by the Supreme Court in Roe v. Wade. Because the ACA already requires policyholders to personally pay the share of their premium applicable to reproductive care, there was dispute over whether this bill would change anything.

In other provisions, the bill would prohibit the use of tax credits to subsidize premiums for ACA policies that cover abortions, prevent the District of Columbia from using locally raised funds to pay for abortions and add the so-called Hyde Amendment to permanent law. A standard part of appropriations bills since 1976, the Hyde measure prohibits the spending of federal funds for abortions except in cases of rape or incest or to save the life of the mother.

Diane Black, R-Tenn., said the bill would ensure that hard-earned tax dollars are not used to fund the destruction of innocent life.

Judy Chu, D-Calif., said the bill is a womans health catastrophe ... In effect, it makes abortion an option only for the wealthy.

A yes vote was to send the bill to the Senate, where it is likely to face a Democratic filibuster.

Voting yes: Martha McSally, R-2, Paul Gosar, R-4, Andy Biggs, R-5, David Schweikert, R-6, Trent Franks, R-8.

Voting no: Tom OHalleran, D-1, Raul Grijalva, D-3, Ruben Gallego, D-7, Kyrsten Sinema, D-9.

GENDER BIAS, AFFORDABLE CARE ACT: Voting 187 for and 235 against, the House on Jan. 24 defeated a Democratic motion that sought to ensure that HR 7 (above) would not result in women paying higher premiums than men for the same policies in Affordable Care Act marketplaces. Under an ACA provision that took effect in 2014, insurance companies are prohibited from discriminating on the basis of policyholders gender or health status. The anti-abortion provisions of the underlying bill would apply to any law that replaces the Affordable Care Act.

Jan Schakowsky, D-Ill., said: We cannot go back to the days when insurance companies were free to discriminate against women. But that is exactly what Republicans want to do. They want women to pay more for insurance coverage that doesnt include the services they need.

Diane Black, R-Tenn., did not comment directly on the motion, but said: Today we have an opportunity to invest in womens health over abortion by passing (this bill) and making the Hyde amendment permanent.

A yes vote was to adopt the Democratic motion.

Voting yes: OHalleran, Grijalva, Gallego, Sinema.

Voting no: McSally, Gosar, Biggs, Schweikert, Franks.

DISCLOSURE OF DONALD TRUMPS TAX RETURNS: Voting 233 for and 187 against, the House on Jan. 24 blocked a parliamentary move by Democrats that sought to force debate on a bill now in committee that would require sitting presidents and presidential candidates to publicly release personal tax returns for the preceding three years. Democrats took this procedural step after the Republican majority denied them a chance to offer amendments to HR 7 (above). As a presidential candidate, Donald Trump said he would release his tax returns at the conclusion of what he said was an ongoing IRS audit. But Trump as president will not disclose his returns, a spokeswoman said days before this vote.

Liz Cheney, R-Wyo., said it is no surprise that (Democrats) would rather talk about just about anything besides the text and the substance of the pending anti-abortion bill.

Jim McGovern, D-Mass., said that between (Trumps) refusal to release his tax returns and all these business conflicts of interest, this presidency is on a collision course with corruption.

A yes vote was to quash a Democratic bid for disclosure of Trumps tax returns.

Voting yes: McSally, Gosar, Biggs, Schweikert, Franks.

Voting no: OHalleran, Grijalva, Gallego, Sinema.

SENATE

MIKE POMPEO, CIA DIRECTOR: The Senate on Jan. 23 voted, 66 for and 32 against, to confirm Mike Pompeo, 53, a Republican congressman from Kansas, as director of the Central Intelligence Agency. Pompeo becomes the sixth CIA director since the spy agency was restructured in 2005 as part of a revamp of U.S. intelligence operations in response to global terrorist threats.

According to his supporters, Pompeo firmly opposes any resumption of abandoned U.S. security practices such as collecting bulk data on Americans telecommunications or torturing terrorist suspects. But critics say Pompeos statements and writings call into question his true feelings about several post-9/11 policies that were stopped by acts of Congress or executive orders.

Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., said Pompeo has committed to following the law with respect to torture. He committed (in testimony) to refuse any orders to restart the CIAs use enhanced interrogation techniques that fall outside of the Army Field Manual.

Jon Tester, D-Mont., said: The threats we face in this world are real, but we cannot afford to revive and expand some of the worst elements of the PATRIOT Act. Every American has a fundamental right to privacy, and Mr. Pompeo has indicated he is willing to sacrifice that right.

A yes vote was to confirm Pompeo as CIA director.

Voting yes: John McCain, R, Jeff Flake, R.

NIKKI HALEY, UNITED NATIONS AMBASSADOR: The Senate on Jan. 24 voted, 96 for and four against, to confirm South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, a Republican, as the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Haley, 45, served in the state House of Representatives for six years before becoming South Carolinas first female governor in 2011.

Supporters praised Haleys leadership as governor and natural diplomatic skills, and while acknowledging her inexperience above the state level, they predicted she will grow into her international position. Opponents said that in her confirmation hearing, Haley only repeated GOP talking points, including a hard line on refugees and Cuba, while showing little understanding of world affairs or U.N. operations.

Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., said Haley can learn the nuances of foreign policy, but diplomacy is something you either have or you dont. She is tough and determined, and I think she is very capable of being the United States voice in the United Nations.

Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., said that in contrast to Haley, U.N. ambassadors historically have been accomplished people (such) as Henry Cabot Lodge, Adlai Stevenson, George H.W. Bush, Daniel Patrick Moynihan, Thomas Pickering and Madeleine Albright. Each was recognized ... across the political spectrum for his or her depth of foreign policy experience and wisdom.

A yes vote was to confirm Haley as U.N. ambassador.

Voting yes: McCain, Flake
OPINION: "While we may not always agree on the path to take, in our discussions its clear that we all want a similar result: excellence in education at TVUSD. To achieve this goal, we need to vote 'yes' on Prop 494," writes Thomas Trask, a candidate for the Tanque Verde Unified School Distr
LOGAN, Utah (AP)  There's something about Charlie Sparkle that makes people smile.

The 3-year-old English Bulldog was born with spina bifida, leaving his two back legs useless. To get around, Charlie hops around in a pair of size 6 diapers and children's shorts from the thrift store, using his two front legs to propel himself forward, reported the Standard-Examiner (http://bit.ly/2jOc0q4).

"His name is Sparkle because you shouldn't let anybody or anything take your sparkle," owner Maren Scott of North Logan said. "He's exuberant and happy and full of joy despite the fact that he's completely messed up. I mean, his eye wanders, his pipshoot is in the wrong place, his legs don't work, his wee falls out, he's messed up. And he's the embodiment of joy. He's Charlie Sparkle."

Charlie took a lap around Sunshine Foundation's Terrace Grove Assisted Living facility. The residents and employees there couldn't help but laugh as Charlie scooted down the hallway in his pants, and many who were bedridden lit up as Scott lifted up the dog and told his story.

Scott got Charlie as a puppy from a breeder. He had been chewing on his back legs like toys because there wasn't any feeling in them.

Charlie now lives at home with eight cats and another family dog named Tigger. He even has his own special stroller to make it easier to get around, paired with his favorite toy, a stuffed Big Bird. Scott has considered having Charlie's back legs removed but decided not to because he uses them for balance, and they make it easier to wear a wheeled harness.

"He's so messed up already, why mess him up more?" Scott said. "He is what he is."

Terrace Grove resident Bud Covert said Charlie reminded him of the many dogs he had owned throughout his 85 years of life, especially a bulldog named Sarge.

"He used to go with me to the bakery for a couple of trays of rolls and the rowdies in town learned pretty quick, 'You don't mess with Covert, he's got a bulldog,'" he said. "But ol' Sarge was about the kindest old mutt that ever was."

Charlie isn't the only furry friend at Terrace Grove. The residents also care for a large, brown rabbit whose name was changed from Thumper to Thumpalina when the bunny's gender was discovered.

Jennifer Heninger, a recreational therapy intern, said she wants to train therapy dogs for a career and will be introducing them at the center more consistently.

"Animals help release endorphins, happy hormones, when you pet them and when you're around them," she said. "Some people just aren't animal people, and if that's the case, that's OK, but having a dog around, their lives are just so simple and happy and that can really be good for someone to have around."

Research is ongoing regarding animal-assisted therapy. One study in Italy showed animal therapy improved depressive symptoms and lowered blood pressure in elderly patients. Another study in Mississippi showed pet therapy reduced loneliness in long-term care facilities.

Sheila Field, a 75-year-old resident who has come to enjoy taking care of Thumpalina, stopped to say hello to Charlie.

Field said having animals around is beneficial for her and her friends at the center.

"We love having Charlie come in, he's so much fun," she said.

Cherie Woods was visiting the facility because she had just lost her mother, a resident there. Even she stopped to say hello to Charlie as he hopped around on the floor at the feet of his owner.

"My goodness, look at that tongue!" Woods said, smiling as she bent down to give Charlie a head rub.

Charlie was excited and anxious upon arriving at the center, so he simply clung to Scott's leg with his two functional legs, giving an occasional snarly bark and using the cuff of her jean as a chew toy.

"It's not what it looks like," Scott said, laughing as she walked, dragging Charlie with her.

Susan Gibson, who works with the Cache Valley chapter of Love on a Leash, said training Charlie and certifying him as a therapy dog was easy. She said his tendency to use Scott's leg as a 'home base' is acceptable because it's just one of the several ways he finds his balance.

"I think the name Charlie Sparkle says it," Gibson said. "He's a happy, happy boy."

Gibson said Charlie passed the American Kennel Club's Canine Good Citizen program, which requires that dogs complete 10 tasks, including accepting a friendly stranger, walking through a crowd, coming when called and responding to distractions appropriately.

Gibson said she also accompanied Charlie for 10 hours of service work prior to certifying him.

"You can bring in somebody like Charlie and they really perk up, they respond," Gibson said. "When they don't respond to people, they will respond to an animal, which is really cool to see."

___

Information from: Standard-Examiner, http://www.standard.net
It seems that the world got a dose of unwanted heat, as the political stage is afflicted with so many variables floating around. As Donald Trump stepped in as the United States President the world's fragile balance is disappearing in no time. The pressing issue of immigration stirred things up, as the Trump Administration is quite determined to start the construction of a wall along the Mexican border. To give a sample of how bad this is, it`s enough that the Mexican President cancelled next week's meeting with President Donald Trump.

Whether he likes it or not, Trump is globally involved

While campaigning for the Oval Office, one of Trump's biggest promises revolved around focusing on America first. But, it`s easier said than done as the United States is widely involved economically and militarily as well in so many overseas territories. Whether it's NATO, the United Nations, or other trans-national organisations, the US role in the world kept things in a balance, a fragile one, yet functional.

One of the biggest challenges when it comes to world peace is the threat of nuclear War. Trump and Putin are definitely the main characters of this piece but other governments may get involved. According to The Telegraph, Mikhail Gorbachev, the former leader of the Soviet Union and Nobel Peace Prize winner warned that the world might be heading to an imminent war.

He knows what it's like to live under the imminent threat of nuclear war.

The world stage might get even hotter

In 2017, there is a chance of huge derailments, especially in Europe. Both France and Germany are waiting for elections, and the United Kingdom is getting ready for Brexit. While nationalism seems to have prevailed in the United States, in Europe it's not there yet.

But populism is on a rise in Germany, France, and other nations. While a united Europe might act as a buffer zone between Russia and the US, a divided one might be a spark for the powder keg. Both WWI and WWII were triggered following disastrous events in Europe.

President Trump will have to handle this carefully, as the world is literally living on the edge. His role is bigger than he might think.
Maybe George Orwell was farsighted. Mr. trumps questionable actions are becoming increasingly worrying. After radically changed the official website of the White House - deleting sections dedicated to climate change and to the LGBT community -, the president-elect Donald Trump continues to take controversial measures ordering to entire federal public bodies not to release public communications, including the Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Agency for Environmental Protection (EPA). All publishing requests from these three American organizations must be preventively submitted before publication to verify them, and eventually to have the permission to be released.

In an Orwellian move of blatant institutional censure, President Trump made matters worse for EPA, forcing a media blackout to all members of the agency, including blogs, updates on the website and post on social media, including the Facebook official page and the Twitter profile.

Years of work done on climate change will disappear

"If the website goes dark, years of work we have done on climate change will disappear," one of the EPA staff members declares to Reuters, adding that some employees have tried to preserve some of the information on the website or at least to convince the Trump administration to not delete parts of it.

The website contains thousands of data about greenhouse gas emissions, as well as the report called "Climate Change Indicators" which describes trends related to the causes and effects of climate change.

The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), the largest scientific society in the world, said that many federal agencies were protected by regulations which "prohibit political interferences" when it came to pass on information to the public. It was not enough, apparently.

Trump and the brilliant moves

With a masterstroke worthy of Stalin or Kim Jong-un, Mr.

Trump nominated Scott Pruitt, a well-known denier about the existence of the climate change, administrator of EPA. The stroke of genius is that Scott Pruitt is an old enemy of EPA, suing the agency for 14 times. Maybe, to Mr. Trump seems obviously the most logical choice, a bit as if Uncle Scrooge put to guard his Deposit one of the Beagle Boys.

The US Senate, with a Republican majority, has not yet officially confirmed the choice of Mr. Trump.

Mr. Trump has had a dispute with journalists and the press since a while, and he doesn't consider climate change as a real thing, but the fact to censure scientists who do not express opinions, but mere facts, are chilling news.

USA
Prime Minister Theresa May has stated that US President Donald Trump is "100 percent behind" NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organisation), AL Jazeera noted. But the questions to ask are, what is NATO, what has it done and crucially why is Trump against it?

The first visit

Theresa May was the first foreign leader to visit the new President since he was sworn in a week ago. In a joint press conference May said that Trump had given strong backing to NATO. May went on to state that the two countries are "united in our recognition of NATO as the bulwark our collective defence".

What is NATO?

Looking back, what is NATO and what has it done for the international community? Formed in 1949, the organisation is "an active and leading contributor to peace and security on the international stage" as stated on the NATO website. Although committed to the "peaceful resolution of disputes". However if that fails military action can be used. After The Cold War NATO became increasingly "proactive" within the international community and conducted several military operations. These included 'Operation Anchor Guard', the intervention as a result of Iraqi forces invading Kuwait in August 1990. After the break-up of the Soviet Union in December 1991, NATO assisted in numerous international relief efforts.

More recently there have been NATO action in Afghanistan, the African Union and in securing the Mediterranean Sea.

Why is Trump against it?

So why is Donald Trump against the alliance? one major problem is the cost of lives that comes with NATO. Its Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg stated that more than 1,000 European soldiers have died fighting alongside US forces in Afghanistan, as stated on the Time website.

Another major issue is the financial aspect. The BBC noted that in 2015 only five of NATO's 28 members "reached the target" of spending 2 percent of GDP on defence. Another problem concerns the fact that the US seem to be doing most of the work. Donald Trump stated that other nations who are "party to the treaty" have not sufficiently "carried their own weight", leaving "much of the work" to the US, as reported on the Politico website.

It is as a result of this that Trump stated that the United States "might not automatically fullfil its obligation" to defend other NATO countries and even went further to describe the alliance as "obsolete".

Although critical of the alliance, I do not see America leaving, particularly after the visit of Theresa May. Although the US shoulders much of the firepower and cost, that is the unfortunate flip side of the being the richest and strongest nation in the world; the only superpower you may say. It is a moral obligation to use their resources and capabilities to help those in need. If they do not, it will cause major problems throughout the world.
Perhaps one of the better appointments of President Donald Trump is that of former Gov. Nikki Haley to United National Ambassador. She presented her credentials and then signaled that she is going to be a UN ambassador in the mode of Daniel Patrick Moynihan, John Bolton, and Jeane Kirkpatrick.

First Ambassador Haley offered the olive branch, according to the New York Times, when she said, Youre going to see a change in the way we do business. Our goal with the administration is to show value at the U.N., and the way well show value is to show our strength, show our voice, have the backs of our allies and make sure our allies have our back as well.

The statement was an apparent reference to the betrayal of American ally Israel by allowing a resolution to pass the UN Security Council that attacked the Jewish State.

Ambassador Haley had a stick to apply as well. She said, For those who dont have our back, were taking names; we will make points to respond to that accordingly.

Americans have always had an antipathy toward the United Nations, as an institution run by corrupt, third world tyrants that, far from promoting peace and freedom throughout the world, has done quite the opposite. Since the passage of the anti-Israel resolution, anti-UN sentiment has reached new heights, with bills in Congress mandating a reduction in Americas financial contribution to the world body. There is even some sentiment for pulling out of the UN altogether and giving the institution the boot from its headquarters in New York.

Ironically, Ambassador Haleys confrontational stance will likely keep the United States in the UN, if only to provide Americans with the pleasure of seeing her take names (ass kickings no doubt to follow.)

Can Ambassador Haley bring the UN back to its stated mission of promoting peace and freedom? Likely not, but the world body will provide a venue for her upholding American values while being a terror to the smarmy third world tyrannies and the spineless European democracies that infest that institution. A lioness is on the loose at the United Nations and all should tremble as a result.
Donald Trump has not been in good standing with the media ever since he kicked off his campaign for president. During his most recent press conference, Trump clashed with an international reporter.

Trump and media

Since his inauguration last week, Donald Trump has signed several executive orders, many of which have come under fire from the mainstream media. The executive order signed to start construction on the border wall received such backlash that Mexico cancelled the planned meeting with the former host of "The Apprentice." Despite this, UK Prime Minister Theresa May came to the White House on Friday afternoon to meet with the new president to discuss a variety of issues.

After the meeting, the two took part in a joint press conference that quickly took an interesting turn, as reported by Mediaite on January 27.

With Donald Trump and Teresa May standing side by side at joint podiums, the billionaire real estate mogul took a question from Tom Newton Dunn, a reporter for The Sun in the United Kingdom. "You said you would help us with a Brexit trade deal, you said you would stand by us with NATO," Dunn said to Trump, before asking, How can the British Prime Minister believe you...because you have been known in the past to change your position on things." Not stopping there, Dunn praised May for being "hard-working," while smearing Trump as a "brash TV extrovert."

British Journalist Challenges Trump: Why Should UK Prime Minister Believe Your Promises? https://t.co/GqodGwImuR (VIDEO) pic.twitter.com/3FygZbo1U8  Mediaite (@Mediaite) January 27, 2017

Attempting to laugh off the question, Donald Trump replied, "I am not as brash as you might think." The new president went on to say that he got along "very well" with May, explaining to Dunn, "I think Brexit is going to be a wonderful thing for your country." Trump was a vocal supporter of Brexit and the right-wing movement in Europe, with his own election win being compared to the vote in question.

Moving forward

After one week as the commander in chief, Donald Trump has been accused of compromising United States relationships with foreign countries, most notably Mexico. While it's unknown how the Trump administration will impact the relationship between the United States and countries around the world, it appears that foreign media, like the domestic press, aren't big fans of the former reality TV host.
One of the big talking points that helped generate excitement for Donald Trump among conservatives was his hard-line stance when it came to Islamic terrorism. After Trump signed an executive order restricting entry into the United States by refugees from Muslim countries, the new president elaborated further.

Trump on refugees

It took less than a week in the White House, but Donald Trump has already signed a handful of executive orders that matched what he vowed to do while he was on the campaign trail. In addition to starting the construction of the border wall, restarting the Keystone XL pipeline, and putting in motion the repeal of Obamacare, the former host of "The Apprentice" also took the United States off the list of countries who were willing to accept Syrian refugees, and others from Muslim countries in the Middle East.

During an interview on the January 27 edition of "The Brody File" on the Christian Broadcasting Network, Trump gave his thoughts on the issue at hand.

Joining host David Brody was President Donald Trump, and the aforementioned executive order on refugees was brought up. "As it relates to persecuted Christians, do you see them as kind of a priority here?" Brody asked the new president. Without hesitation, Trump confirmed "yes." Just looking for clarification, Brody once again asked, "you do?" Trump then responded with a more detailed answer.

Trump's orders bar people from Iran, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Libya, Yemen and Somalia entering US for 90 days https://t.co/OwJLvKbRPG  CNN Breaking News (@cnnbrk) January 28, 2017

"They've been horribly treated," Donald Trump said, before explaining, "Do you know if you were a Christian in Syria it was impossible, at least very tough to get into the United States." "If you were a Muslim you could come in, but if you were a Christian, it was almost impossible," Trump continued, calling the process "so unfair." Trump went on to admit that "everybody was persecuted," but reiterated that "they (Islamic State) were chopping off the heads of everybody but more so the Christians." Once again, the new commander in chief stated, "We are going to help them."

.@POTUS repeated previously debunked statements about Christian refugees while pledging to give them "priority." https://t.co/rAb9x861Ew pic.twitter.com/Bh50zeAY3D  American Atheists (@AmericanAtheist) January 27, 2017

Refugee reaction

In response to the news that Syrian refugees would no longer be legally welcome in the United States, critics of Donald Trump quickly spoke out.

Actor George Takei took to his Twitter account and cited a map that explained that the countries that were not on the ban list had financial ties to Trump. Women's education activist Malala Yousafzai wrote a statement where she described herself as "heartbroken," while Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg posted a personal plea for the new president to possibly reconsider his actions.
It's become commonplace for Donald Trump to start his day by using his Twitter account to lash out at his critics. After taking a shot at The New York Times on Saturday morning, Trump was quickly fact-checked.

Trump fact-checked

In a three-part tweet to kick off the weekend, Donald Trump set his sights on one of his favorite media targets; The New York Times. Trump referred to the paper as "failing," while accusing them of having "dwindling subscribers and readers." Not stopping there, the commander in chief criticized the paper for being "dishonest," "false," and "angry," while also taking a cheap shot at The Washington Post in the process.

As seen on Twitter on January 28, The New York Times communications' page had some interesting information to send back to the former host of "The Apprentice."

"@realDonaldTrump Fact check: @nytimes subscribers & audience at all-time highs," The New York Times Communications tweeted out on Saturday morning, before adding, "Supporting independent journalism matters." Donald Trump has made attacking the media part of his MO over the last year and a half, and paper has been at the top of his list.

NYT fires back at Trump: "Subscribers & audience at all-time highs" https://t.co/Y0qci8ytwB pic.twitter.com/w3IuTwAaGc  The Hill (@thehill) January 28, 2017

Donald Trump adopted the nickname "failing" for the paper, which he often used on the campaign trail. Not long after he won the election, Trump met with the paper at their offices in New York City, but after the latest social media battle, it doesn't look like the relationship will be improving.

Trump's media battle

Earlier in the week, Donald Trump praised Fox News for their ratings and coverage of his inauguration, but made sure to attack CNN in the process. Trump accused CNN of having low ratings during Inauguration Day, but the network also fact-checked the president. CNN's Twitter account released a statement, citing Nielsen, which showed that they had nearly identical ratings with Fox News during the inauguration.

Moving forward

It's only been one week with Donald Trump as the new commander in chief, and he's already making major changes. In addition to his attacks on the media, Trump has signed several controversial executive orders, including, but not limited to, starting construction of a border wall, banning Syrian refugees from the United States, and restarting the Keystone XL pipeline.
It was all a lie. A 14-year-old African-American boy from Chicago named Emmett Till was brutally beaten to death in Klan infested Money, Mississippi in 1955 because of a lie. It was a lie which was all too common in the deep south since slavery. A black male accused of behaving inappropriately towards a white female. In the case of Till, a city boy visiting relatives in the segregated south, images of his disfigured body inflamed tensions and played a role in the civil rights movement.

One summer day, Till and his cousin Simeon Wright had gone to a store owned by Roy and Carolyn Bryant.

For some reason, Carolyn Bryant accused Till of making unwanted verbal and physical advances toward her. Some time later, her husband Roy and his half-brother J. W. Milam kidnapped Emmett Till from his relatives home. His bloated, mutilated body was found days later in the muddy Tallahatchie River with an eye dislodged from its socket, a bullet hole in the head and barbed wire around his neck. Emmett Till was totally unrecognizable. At the funeral, his mother, Mamie Till-Mobley insisted the casket remain open for the world to see what had been done to her child. Acquitted by an all-white, all-male jury in September 1955 after an hours deliberation, Bryant and Milam seemed at ease at their highly-publicized trial.

Both men, now dead, confessed their guilt in a Look magazine article in 1956.

The truth comes almost sixty years later

Now 82-years-old and having re-married, Carolyn Bryant-Donhams 2007 Vanity Fair interview is revealed in a new book, The Blood of Emmett Till. Bryant told writer Timothy Tyson that her accusations against Till were not true and nothing he did could ever justify what happened to him.

Till only stopped by her store to buy 2 cents worth chewing gum. Bryant-Donham, who went into hiding after the trial, added that she felt a tender sorrow for Emmett Tills mother, who died in 2004.

One of Americas darkest moments

The FBI re-opened the famous case in 2004, in an attempt to haul any accomplices to court. However, a grand jury decided that there wasn't sufficient evidence to pursue further charges.

Bryant-Donhams manuscript of her recollection regarding Emmett Till, including the trial and murder, is stored in the Southern Historical Collection at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill library archives. Per Bryant-Donhams request, the manuscript wont be available for public viewing until 2036. It was all a lie, and everyone knew it was.
In the last week since the inauguration of Donald Trump, the new administration has come under fire for a variety of reasons. Presidential Counsel Kellyanne Conway has been a top target since she coined the phrase "alternative facts," which has prompted her to lash out at the media and her critics on Twitter.

Conway on Twitter

When Donald Trump was taking the oath of office last Friday, around 200,000 people were in Washington, D.C. to watch it happen in person. After the news media reported on the attendance figures, Trump and White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer accused the press of lying about the numbers.

When Kellyanne Conway was asked by "Meet the Press" host Chuck Todd about why the administration was disputing the information, she said they were simply giving "alternative facts." Backlash quickly followed, and Conway has been on war path against the media ever since. As seen on her Twitter account on January 24, the former Trump campaign manager is still not holding back.

Fascinating take posted by a former Democrat.



That picture - mom must be so proud.



Clintons and Obamas on board here? https://t.co/6vj8VuYPGX  Kellyanne Conway (@KellyannePolls) January 24, 2017

While re-tweeting a post from a woman explaining why she's not a liberal feminist, Kellyanne Conway added a few words of her own.

"Fascinating take posted by a former Democrat," Conway wrote on her own Twitter account. In response to the image attached, a female Women's March protester wearing a vagina-shaped hat, Conway added, "That picture - mom must be so proud." Not stopping there, Conway rhetorically asked, "Clintons and Obamas on board here?"

Let's see if double standard for Trumps can be a single standard when it comes to such a simple and decent appeal. Do what's right, folks. https://t.co/0SzWn1bwz1  Kellyanne Conway (@KellyannePolls) January 24, 2017

Prior to her tweet targeting liberal feminists, Kellyanne Conway posted a statement from the White House asking for family privacy in the aftermath of recent attacks on 10-year-old Barron Trump, while also adding her own message.

"Let's see if double standard for Trumps can be a single standard when it comes to such a simple and decent appeal," Conway wrote on Twitter in an apparent shot at media and liberal critics, while adding, "Do what's right, folks."

Next up

The first week of the Donald Trump administration is still underway and the opposition from the media appears to be at an all-time high. With the former host of "The Apprentice" just getting started as the commander in chief, it's likely to be a bumpy ride between both sides.
In the first week of his administration, Donald Trump has come under fire after signing several executive orders. In response, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has decided to speak out.

Facebook on Trump

During the year and a half that he was on the campaign trail, Donald Trump vowed to make drastic changes, and to get them done as soon as possible. After being in the White House for seven days, the billionaire real estate mogul made big moves on issues related to immigration and refugees. Trump signed an order to start construction on the Mexican border wall, and also restricted refugees from entering the United States if they came from certain Muslim-majority countries in the Middle East.

As seen in a January 27 post on Facebook, Mark Zuckerberg is giving his thoughts.

Mark Zuckerberg started off his post by explaining that many in his own family immigrated to the United States, and that his wife's family were refuges from Vietnam and China. "Like many of you, I'm concerned about the impact of the recent executive orders signed by President Trump," Zuckerberg wrote. "We need to keep this country safe, but we should do that by focusing on people who actually pose a threat," the Facebook CEO added. Zuckerberg provided alternative solution's to what Donald Trump has ordered, including, "Expanding the focus of law enforcement."

Going further, Mark Zuckerberg called for those refugees who need help, to be allowed into the United States, noting, "Had we turned away refugees a few decades ago, Priscilla's family wouldn't be here today." Zuckerberg did offer a glimmer of hope, saying that he was "glad to hear" that the former host of "The Apprentice" was going to "work something out" for the "Dreamers," who were brought to the United States at a young age, and through no fault of their own.

In conclusion, Zuckerberg noted, "I hope we find the courage and compassion to bring people together and make this world a better place for everyone."

Donald Trumps executive orders are going to be expensive to enforce https://t.co/3KvUbhHTBW pic.twitter.com/B38vhrqSSJ  The Daily Beast (@thedailybeast) January 27, 2017

Next up

The reaction from Mark Zuckerberg is in line with what many around the country have expressed over the last week. Multiple protests have taken place, including the historic Women's March, with over two million taking to the streets last Saturday to voice their opposition to Donald Trump.
A new study by a political scientist from Virginia's Old Dominion University claims that Hillary Clinton received approximately 834,000 illegal votes in the 2016 presidential election. The Washington Times reported on Thursday that political scientist Jesse Richman has produced "groundbreaking" research on non-citizen voting, which he shared on his blog in response to President Trump's allegation of widespread voting fraud.

Non-citizen vote heavily favored Clinton

Richman based his calculations on national polling conducted by 28 universities, which revealed that 6.4 percent of the 20 million non-citizens living in the United States voted in the recent election.

He then calculated that 81 percent of these non-citizens cast their ballots for Clinton. Through extrapolation, Richman concluded that this percentage translates into 834,000 additional votes for the Democratic candidate.

While Richman's figure falls well short of the five million illegal votes that Trump claims were cast for Clinton, those 834,000 extra votes would have been more than enough to put states like Nevada, New Hampshire and Maine into Donald Trump's win column. Hillary Clinton won each of those states with a margin of victory less than three percent.

Leftists still insist there's no proof

This new study probably won't do much to silence Trump's critics, however. After Trump made the bold claim about rampant voting fraud, his accusations were met with derision by the mainstream media, with many clinging to their strongly held opinion that there is no evidence of fraud.

For instance, Jake Tapper of CNN dismissed the claim as a stunning allegation for which the White House is providing no evidence. And there is a reason they are providing no evidence -- there is no evidence. It is not true.

Richman's study relied upon the Cooperative Congressional Election Survey, an anonymous questionnaire that includes a question on citizenship status.

A significant portion of survey-takers admitted that they were not legal citizens. The statistics in the Old Dominion University study were compiled by Richman, along with professors Gulshan A. Chatta and David C. Earnest.
Sheriff David Clarke's no nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is approach has transformed the Milwaukee County sheriff into a conservative icon. Beloved by Trump supporters, the sheriff was even invited to speak at Donald Trump's 'DeploraBall' over inaugural weekend. And now the tough-talking lawman has turned his attention to Facebook founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg, calling out the tech titan over his stance on Trump's ban on refugees.

Saturday morning, on the "Fox & Friends Weekend" show, Sheriff Clarke addressed the critics of President Trump's recent executive order, which temporarily restricts refugees from certain countries from entering the United States.

Clarke had one critic in particular in his crosshairs -- Mark Zuckerberg.

Sheriff Clarke doesn't like being lectured

Clarke declared that he was tired of 'one-percenters' like Zuckerberg lecturing the rest of America about borders and immigration. "I know who I am and most Americans know who they are. We are a sovereign nation," said Clarke. "If youre going to be a sovereign nation, you have to have borders and you have to protect those borders." Clarke then claimed that Zuckerberg had no idea who is entering the U.S. and what it takes to vet those individuals, and pointed out that Zuckerberg's own home in Hawaii was protected by a wall.

Clarke didn't mince words when asked about the Syrian refugee crisis.

"Im tired of all the crocodile tears about the kids -- the poor kids coming, he added. Sheriff Clarke alleged that a significant portion of Syrian refugees were not women and children, but grown men of fighting age who should be back in their homeland trying to save their country.

Zuckerberg's statement

Clarke's criticism of Zuckerberg stems from comments the Facebook founder made on Friday after President Trump signed several executive orders, including an order to start the process of building a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border and another order establishing a temporary ban on refugee entry.

In Zuckerberg's statement, which was posted on his official Facebook page, the social media mogul said, The United States is a nation of immigrants, and we should be proud of that. We should also keep our doors open to refugees and those who need help. Thats who we are."
The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Theresa May has been urged by rival politicians and leaders in the UK's other major political parties to reject recently elected United States President Donald Trump's embrace of waterboarding and any potential trade deal between the United Kingdom and the United States that would open up the UK's National Health System (NHS) for privatisation.

Prime Minister May receives criticism from Labour and Liberal Democrat leaders

As Prime Minister May prepares to be the first foreign leader to meet newly-elected President Trump on Friday in Washington, she has received pressure from British Members of Parliament from both rival parties, Labour and Liberal Democrat, as well as from within her own party.

Most of the criticism has focused on President Trump's recent comments surrounding the issue of torture. In his first televised interview since being inaugurated as the 45th President of the United States, Trump declared he believes torture methods against terrorism suspects are both morally justified and effective means for retrieving information.

During Prime Minister's Questions on Wednesday, where Members of Parliament are allowed the floor to ask May questions on current issues, Conservative MP Andrew Tyrie pressure May to unilaterally reject torture and refuse to allow the UK to complicit in any action that would facilitate the use of torture by the Us government. While May condemned the practice of torture and stated the UK government would by no means practice it, she refused to make a statement on President Trump's recent comments.

Several Liberal Democrat MPs and Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn quickly took to social media, criticising May and pressuring her to confront Trump on this issue. Corbyn has a long history of advocating human rights issues and has been a fierce critic of both the current Conservative government and President Trump.

Prime Minister May also criticised for free trade deals

As Trump and May meet, there will be discussion of a potential free Trade deal between the two countries. Although May has stated her support to keep the UK's national health care program free at the point of delivery, she has left open the possibility for US corporate investment in the NHS.

This has drawn fierce criticism and questioning from British MPs as to the future of the UKs health care. The Liberal Democrat Party leader Tim Farron demanded May that the NHS be protected in any future US-UK trade deals.
When Barack #Obama became President of the United States in 2009 the country and the world saw it as the moment that proved that all Americans are equal. Although the Birther Movement tried to discredit Obama, the country as a whole welcomed him and the world saw proof that skin colour did not exclude any American from becoming the countrys President.

Time Machine

The first week of the new #Donald Trump presidency seems to have turned the White House into a time machine. The executive order signed yesterday to block Moslem migration from at risk countries and at the same time give priority to persecuted Christians from those countries raises fears that religion, race and skin colour will once more decide a persons fate, rather than their own personal behaviour.

This message was further reinforced with Trumps statements during the presidential campaign against Mexicans as drug runners and rapists which ended with the executive order to build a wall between the two countries. This led to Mexicos President Enrique Pena Neto to cancel his planned visit to the White House.

New occupant, new policies

While a change of Presidents will always mean a change of policies for the country, particularly with Presidents from different Parties, the contrasts between the two occupants is truly vast. While one President worked to heal rifts within the country, the other campaigned to once again widen these divisions. While Obama was generally well seen world by the worlds population, Donald Trumps America First policies risks alienating the country from its traditional allies and the withdrawal of the U.S.

from the TPP was seen as such by countries such as Australia which has always been a firm and faithful ally through decades of wars and economic agreements.

The signing of the many executive orders was not the final step of these possible changes, but the first indications of the change of direction. They will still have to overcome the legislative controls and almost certainly challenges to the Supreme Court.

Making this process even harder to foresee will be the possibility of clashes between President Trump and his own Republican Party which risks serious divisions over radical changes from its traditional stances on matters such as Freedom of religion.

The country and the world can only wait and see what will be the final outcome of this first week of executive decisions and whether or not they will eventually be put into action.

But there is one thing that can definitely be said about the transition from the Obama Presidency to that of Trump.

Rarely have the differences between successive Presidents been as wide as we have seen in recent weeks. The next four years will truly be interesting, but we do not yet know in what way.
The signing of a new executive order targeting Moslem refugees and migrants was a major victory for ISIS and the other fundamentalist terrorist groups. Effectively #Donald Trump proved to them that the United States is fighting a war against Islam. The effect of the decision may well be to encourage marginalized Moslems in Western countries, especially the easily influenced youth, to enroll with the groups that are the major cause of refugees that are fleeing the hot spots targeted in the order such as Syria, Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan, Yemen, Sudan and Somalia.

War on Terror

With a stroke of his pen Donald Trump gave the world apparent proof that there is a war against Islam , at least in the eyes of the terrorists and even some moderate Moslems around the world.

In addition, this order does nothing to address the issues that led to the rise of these fundamentalist groups. The problems of huge gaps in wages and quality of life within many Moslem countries must be addressed in order to limit recruits to the fundamentalists. Moslems must be helped to integrate in their new countries of residence and not treated as outsiders even after two or three generations as occurs in France and Germany. Worse still the decision to target the Moslem refugees and migrants shows that the newly installed President and his Administration have learnt nothing from the European experiences during the tragic years of left wing and Irish terrorism during the 1970s and 1980s.

In particular the Italian and German experiences with the Red Brigades and the Red Army Faction must be studied because they were defeated by separating the the terrorists from their base support and removing the conditions that led young people to take up armed conflict against their own countries.

Inclusion not exclusion

#ISIS, the Taliban, Boko Haram and the other groups will not be defeated by repression, but by openness to the moderate elements of the Moslem population.

Using discrimination and restrictions will only increase the alienation that leads young, often weak members of the Western countries to seek a solution in such extremists groups. Tragically all too often they learn too late that there is no solution in such groups.

The United States and the Western country will not win the war on Terrorism with tactics of exclusion, but with the tactics of inclusion.

The economically rich countries must encourage and work with the moderate political and religious Moslem leaders. They must encourage education in the countries at risk of terrorism and help them to defeat the elements that wish to divide the world into us and them.

The blocking of Moslems from these countries has only made the ISISs job of recruiting even easier and thus ensuring that the war against terror begun on 9/11 and not yet finished will be even longer and bloodier.
At the end of his first week in Office, President #Donald Trump on Friday signed an executive order setting bans and eventual extreme vetting of Moslem refugees from at risk countries, as well as giving priority to Christian and other minority groups persecuted in these countries. The announced decision made headlines around the world as it goes against long American tradition of accepting migrants from religious persecution and will also cause major problems for the international agencies processing the millions of migrants fleeing the hot spots in the Middle East.

New executive order

This decision was not a surprise as it had been foreshadowed days before at the signing of another executive order on Immigration. The actions against Moslem immigration had been a major part of Donald Trumps presidential campaign and even then had raised concerns about the implications, particularly on a constitutional level.

While the actions will surely please many who voted for him, these same measures will also cause embarrassment and distress to the moderate elements of the Republican Party. The reaction against the decisions included an impassioned appeal by Noble Peace Prize winner #Malala Yousafzai who is living proof that the Islamic extremists not only target other religions, but also Moslems who oppose their very limited interpretations of the Koran.

The United States of America was founded by refugees fleeing religious persecution in Europe and so Freedom of religion is a proud and important part of the Constitution. Although the incident of the so-called Ship of shame in 1939 was a blot on this record, no American President before Donald Trump had ever targeted a specific religious group for particular attention.

This decision was also emphasized by the Presidents admission to the Christian Broadcast Network that he will also give priority to Christian refugees.

In fact, for this very reason the executive order will certainly be subject to appeals to the Supreme Court on the basis of its unconstitutionality. Worse still for the President, the Republican Party, already subject to a rumours, whispering and leaks campaign against the new President, will be forced to publicly confront and address this most delicate of issues.

Victims twice over

Sadly these new measures will mean that the millions of Moslem refugees fleeing their homes are now victims twice over. The fanatic groups such as the Taliban and ISIS target have less patience for heretical Moslems than they do for other persecuted minorities in the territories they control and now the refugees who were victims of the Islamic terrorists are now also victims of a climate mistrust that these terrorists have been hoping to provoke in the Western world towards their religion.

The first week of the Trump Administration has seen a number of executive orders signed that seem to indicate a rush to achieve the more controversial aspects of the political agenda that gave him victory on November 8th last.

One of these has already caused a public clash with Mexico in response to the order to build a wall between the two countries and to the cancellation by President Enrique Pena Nieto of his planned visit to the United States. This after the Womans March on Saturday last which attracted a huge crowd to protest Donald Trumps attitude to women and to defend womens rights.

The decision to block and then severely limit Moslem immigration will only provide more opposition to the new President and may even force into action those politicians within his own Party such as House Leader Paul Ryan, John McCain and Marco Rubio who have publicly expressed their doubts on Donald Trump.

In any case, given the nature of the orders, the final decision will probably not come from the Senate or Congress, but from the Supreme Court who are the final arbiters of American Laws.
NIMHANS PhD Super-Speciality MPhil Admissions 2022 https://career.webindia123.com/career/dates_and_events/entrance/medi/national-institute-of-mental-health-and-neuro-sciences-nimhans-entrance-test.htm Details of NIMHANS PhD Super-Speciality MPhil Admissions 2022 2022-7-11 2022-7-15 https://career.webindia123.com/career/images/exams.png India India NIMHANS PhD Super-Speciality MPhil Admissions 2022 Medical

National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences Admissions 2022 -23

NIMHANS PhD Super-Speciality MPhil Admissions 2022 Category : Medical Admissions 2022 Published : On July 11, 2022 By Webindia123 Editor

Important Dates

Online availability of application forms 22nd June 2022 Last date for online submission of application 15th July 2022 Online entrance test (Tentative Dates) 24th July 2022 The date of Interview & Counseling - Commencement of the Courses 1st September 2022 Last date for admission 5th August 2022

Online Applications are invited on prescribed form for Admission to the following courses for the Academic Year 2022 - 2023

A) Ph.D.

(a) Institute Fellowship

Ph.D. Degree in Clinical Psychology - 03 Seats Ph.D. Degree in Neurophysiology - 02 Seats Ph.D. Degree in Psychiatric Social Work - 01 Seat Ph.D. Degree in Speech Pathology & Audiology - 01 Seat Ph.D. Degree in Biostatistics - 01 Seat Ph.D Degree in Mental Health Rehabilitation - 02 Seats Ph.D in Clinical Neurosciences - 08 Seats (ICMR Program)

(b) External Fellowship

(a) Biophysics (b) Biostatistics (c) Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (d) Clinical Psychology (e) Human Genetics (f) Ph.D. in History of Psychiatry (g) Mental Health Education (h) Mental Health Rehabilitation (i) Neurochemistry (j) Neuroimaging & Interventional Radiology (k) Neurological Rehabilitation (l) Neurology (m) Neuromicrobiology (n) Neuropathology (o) Neurophysiology (p) Neurovirology (q) Nursing (r) Psychiatric Social Work (s) Psychiatry (t) Psychopharmacology (u) Speech Pathology & Audiology

Candidates with sponsorship / deputation from Government of India / State Govt. Institutions / Universities, candidates with Fellowships from Government Agencies like UGC, CSIR, ICMR, DBT, AYUSH (specific reference to courses in Yoga and Ayurveda) (JRF / SRF only) etc., permanent employees / tenured employees of NIMHANS and candidates sponsored by NGOs can apply for Ph.D. in the various departments of this Institute. However, such applications will be considered at the discretion of the competent authority at NIMHANS for permitting them to appear for Entrance Test and interview.

Candidates who have cleared the UGC, CSIR, ICMR, DBT and AYUSH (specific reference to courses in Yoga and Ayurveda) (JRF/ SRF only) qualifying exams are exempted from entrance test. All other candidates should clear the Online Entrance Test with minimum of 50% Marks to become eligible for Interview.

All the candidates who are selected for appearing before selection committee for Interview are required to qualify by obtaining a minimum of 50% marks to be eligible for admission to a Ph.D. course. Mere qualifying in Entrance test and interview does not entitle admission to a Ph.D. course. Selection is subject to availability of eligible guides in the respective departments.

B) SUPERSPECIALITY COURSES

DM Degree in Neuroimaging and Interventional Radiology - 4 Seats (1 for sponsored*) DM Degree in Neurology - 14 Seats (10seats for Post MD/DNB & 04 seats for post MBBS) (01 seat for sponsored under post MD/DNB only, however if sponsored candidates are not available, it will go to the General pool) DM Degree in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry - 4 Seats (2 for sponsored) DM Degree in Addiction Psychiatry - 2 Seats DM Degree in Neuroanaesthesia - 06 Seats (02 seats for sponsored) DM Degree in Neuropathology - 2 Seats (1 for sponsored) DM Degree in Geriatric Psychiatry - 2 Seats M.Ch. in Neurosurgery - 10 Seats (06 seats for post MS/DNB & 04 seats for post MBBS) (01 seat for sponsored under post MS/DNB only, however if sponsored candidates are not available, it will go to the General Pool)

C) POST GRADUATE DEGREE/DIPLOMA COURSES

MD Degree in Psychiatry -37 Seats Fellowship in Psychosocial Support in Disaster Management- 08 Seats (4 for Sponsored) Fellowship in Psychiatric Rehabilitation# - 02 Seats (Under Medical) (1 sponsored)/ 02 Seats (Under Non-Medical) (1 sponsored) Fellowship in Geriatric Mental Health Care - 02 Seats (01 seat for sponsored) Fellowship in Mental Health Education - 04 Seats (02 seats for sponsored candidates from State/Central Govt./NGO) If sponsored candidates are not available, it will go to the General Pool. Fellowship in Geriatric Mental Health Nursing - 04 Seats (02 seats for sponsored) Fellowship in Psychosocial Care for elderly - 03 Seats (01 seat for sponsored) M.Phil. in Clinical Psychology - 21 Seats M.Phil. in Psychiatric Social Work - 21 Seats (3 for Foreign**/Sponsored*) M.Phil. in Neurophysiology - 02 Seats M.Phil. in Biophysics - 03 Seats M.Phil. in Neurosciences - 04 Seats Master of Public Health - 10 Seats (05 Seats for sponsored candidates from the government sector and 05 Seats for non-sponsored candidates) M.Sc. in Psychiatric Nursing - 09 Seats (03 seats for sponsored candidates from NIMHANS only) M.Sc in Biostatistics - 4 Seats Post-Graduate Diploma in Clinical Biochemistry- 4 Seats

D) POST DOCTORAL FELLOWSHIP COURSES

Child & Adolescent Psychiatry - 2 Seats (1 for sponsored) Neuroanaesthesia - 4 Seats (2 for foreign/sponsored) Neurocritical Care - 3 Seats (2 ICMR fellowship under Centre for Advanced Research and 1 seat sponsored by TVS group) Neuroinfection - 2 Seats (1 for sponsored) Hospital Infection Control - 1 Seat (1 for sponsored) Epilepsy - 3 Seats (1 for sponsored) Movement Disorders - 3 Seats (1 for sponsored) Neuromuscular Disorder - 03 Seats (01 seat for sponsored) Stroke - 1 Seat Paediatric Neurology - 1 Seat Cognitive Neurosciences - 02 Seats (01 seat for sponsored) Neuropathology - 03 Seats (01 seat for sponsored) Transfusion Medicine - 2 Seats (1 for sponsored) Neurological Rehabilitation - 2 Seats Acute Care & Emergency Psychiatry - 2 Seats (1 for sponsored) Community Mental Health - 3 Seats (2 for sponsored) Addiction Medicine - 4 Seats (2 for sponsored) Consultation Liasion Psychiatry - 2 Seats (1 for sponsored) Geriatric Psychiatry - 2 Seats (1 for sponsored) Obessive Compulisive disorder & related disorders - 3 Seats (2 for sponsored) Clinical Neuro Sciences & Therapeutics in Schizophrenia - 3 Seats (2 for sponsored) Women's Mental Health - 2 Seats (1 for sponsored) Non Invasive Brain Stimulation of Psychiatric disorders - 2 Seats (1 for sponsored) Forensic Psychiatry - 2 Seats (1 for sponsored)

*Sponsored and Deputed candidate/s means permanent employees sponsored/deputed by the State/Central Government or Public Sector undertaking of State/Central Government.

All foreign nationals (holding passports of countries other than India) and non-resident Indians should apply under Foreign National category. They shall appear for a common entrance test along with the other candidates. Admission will be subject to the candidate qualifying in the online entrance test and obtaining No Objection Certificate for pursuing the course applied from Government of India.

Sponsorship for Ph.D. for Foreign Nationals is permitted only from Governmental Organizations, recognized Universities and National Scholarships of any reputed/recognized organization will be considered. No other source of funding will be considered.

# Candidates sponsored by the NGOs also can apply for this course. The sponsorship letter should be in the NIMHANS prescribed format as shown under Sponsorship Certificate. If no candidates are qualified under Medical category, the seats will be filled by the Candidates from the Non-Medical category and vice-versa.

E) ELIGIBILITY CONDITIONS FOR ADMISSION

DM Degree in Neuroradiology:

MD/DNB in Radiodiagnosis. The duration of the course will be for a period of three years.

MD/DNB in Radiodiagnosis. The duration of the course will be for a period of three years. DM Degree in Neurology:

(a) Post MBBS: The duration of the course will be for a period of five years,

(b) Post MD/DNB in Internal (General) Medicine or Paediatrics: The duration of the course will be for a period of three years.

(a) Post MBBS: The duration of the course will be for a period of five years, (b) Post MD/DNB in Internal (General) Medicine or Paediatrics: The duration of the course will be for a period of three years. DM Degree in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry:

MD/DNB in Psychiatry. The duration of the course will be for a period of three years.

MD/DNB in Psychiatry. The duration of the course will be for a period of three years. DM Degree in Neuroanaesthesia:

MD/DNB in Anaesthesia. The duration of the course will be for a period of three years.

MD/DNB in Anaesthesia. The duration of the course will be for a period of three years. M.Ch. Degree in Neurosurgery:

(a) Post MBBS: The duration of the course will be for a period of five years,

(b) Post MS/DNB in General Surgery: The duration of the course will be for a period of three years.

(a) Post MBBS: The duration of the course will be for a period of five years, (b) Post MS/DNB in General Surgery: The duration of the course will be for a period of three years. Post Doctoral Fellowship in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry:

MD/DNB in Psychiatry.

MD/DNB in Psychiatry. Post Doctoral Fellowship in Neuroanaesthesia:

MD/DNB in Anaesthesia.

MD/DNB in Anaesthesia. Post Doctoral Fellowship in Neuroinfection:

MD in Microbiology.

MD in Microbiology. Post Doctoral Fellowship in Hospital Infection Control:

MD/DNB in Microbiology.

MD/DNB in Microbiology. Post Doctoral Fellowship in Neurology

a) Epilepsy b) Movement Disorders c) Neuromuscular Disorder d) Stroke: DM/DNB in Neurology.

a) Epilepsy b) Movement Disorders c) Neuromuscular Disorder d) Stroke: DM/DNB in Neurology. Post Doctoral Fellowship in Muscular Disorder:

DM/DNB in Neurology.

DM/DNB in Neurology. Post Doctoral Fellowship in Stroke:

DM/DNB in Neurology.

DM/DNB in Neurology. Post Doctoral Fellowship in Neuropathology:

MD/DNB in Pathology.

MD/DNB in Pathology. Post Doctoral Fellowship in Transfusion Medicine:

MD/DNB in Pathology/ Medicine/ Pediatrics/ Microbiology/ Anaesthesia/ Emergency Medicine or any other clinical equivalent degree recognized from a recognized institution in India

MD/DNB in Pathology/ Medicine/ Pediatrics/ Microbiology/ Anaesthesia/ Emergency Medicine or any other clinical equivalent degree recognized from a recognized institution in India Post Doctoral Fellowship in Neurological Rehabilitation:

MD/DNB (Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation).

MD/DNB (Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation). Post Doctoral Fellowship in Acute Care & Emergency Psychiatry:

MD/DNB in Psychiatry.

MD/DNB in Psychiatry. Post Doctoral Fellowship in Community Mental Health:

MD/DNB in Psychiatry.

MD/DNB in Psychiatry. Post Doctoral Fellowship in Addiction Medicine:

MD/DNB in Psychiatry.

MD/DNB in Psychiatry. Post Doctoral Fellowship in Consultation Liasion Psychiatry:

MD/DNB in Psychiatry.

MD/DNB in Psychiatry. Post Doctoral Fellowship in Geriatric Psychiatry:

MD/DNB in Psychiatry.

MD/DNB in Psychiatry. Post Doctoral Fellowship in Obessive Compulisive disorder & related disorders:

MD/DNB in Psychiatry.

MD/DNB in Psychiatry. Post Doctoral Fellowship in Clinical Neuro Sciences & Therapeutics in Schizophrenia:

MD/DNB in Psychiatry.

(The duration of Post Doctoral Fellowship courses will be for a period of one year)

MD/DNB in Psychiatry. (The duration of Post Doctoral Fellowship courses will be for a period of one year) MD in Psychiatry:

(a) MBBS: The duration of the course will be for a period of three years

(b) Diploma in Psychiatry (DPM): The duration of the course will be for a period of two years for DPM candidates

(a) MBBS: The duration of the course will be for a period of three years (b) Diploma in Psychiatry (DPM): The duration of the course will be for a period of two years for DPM candidates Diploma in Psychiatry (DPM):

MBBS: The duration of the course will be for a period of two years

MBBS: The duration of the course will be for a period of two years Fellowship in Psychosocial Support Disaster Management:

M.Phil. in Psychiatric Social Work/ Clinical Psychology/Psychosocial Rehabilitation/Disaster Management or M.Sc. in Psychiatric Nursing with one year experience after completion of M.Sc. course.

M.Phil. in Psychiatric Social Work/ Clinical Psychology/Psychosocial Rehabilitation/Disaster Management or M.Sc. in Psychiatric Nursing with one year experience after completion of M.Sc. course. Fellowship in Psychiatric Rehabilitation:

Candidates who possess the following degrees/diplomas a) Diploma in Psychiatry/Psychological Medicine or MD (Psychiatry) or DNB (Psychiatry), b) M.Phil. in Clinical Psychology/Psychiatric Social Work, c) M.Sc. in Psychosocial Rehabilitation, Direct candidates as well as those deputed from other organizations can be admitted to the course. Those with MBBS and those with MA in Psychology/MSW/M.Sc. Nursing who have had minimum of 2 years of experience of having worked in a mental health setting are eligible. (If M.Phil. or Diploma is for only 1 year duration, then 1 additional year of experience in mental health setting is necessary).

Candidates who possess the following degrees/diplomas a) Diploma in Psychiatry/Psychological Medicine or MD (Psychiatry) or DNB (Psychiatry), b) M.Phil. in Clinical Psychology/Psychiatric Social Work, c) M.Sc. in Psychosocial Rehabilitation, Direct candidates as well as those deputed from other organizations can be admitted to the course. Those with MBBS and those with MA in Psychology/MSW/M.Sc. Nursing who have had minimum of 2 years of experience of having worked in a mental health setting are eligible. (If M.Phil. or Diploma is for only 1 year duration, then 1 additional year of experience in mental health setting is necessary). Ph.D. in Clinical Neurosciences (ICMR Programme):

Minimum Qualification: MBBS degree with not less than 55% of the Marks of any University recognized by the Medical Council of India (MCI). The Candidate should have completed satisfactorily one year compulsory rotating internship or its equivalent as recognized by the MCI after passing the final MBBS examination and must have full registration with a State Medical Council. The duration of the course will be for a period of five years.

Minimum Qualification: MBBS degree with not less than 55% of the Marks of any University recognized by the Medical Council of India (MCI). The Candidate should have completed satisfactorily one year compulsory rotating internship or its equivalent as recognized by the MCI after passing the final MBBS examination and must have full registration with a State Medical Council. The duration of the course will be for a period of five years. Ph.D. Degree in History of Psychiatry:

MBBS or Post Graduation in Social Sciences/Humanities (History/ Psychology/ Sociology/ Social Work/ Cultural Studies)

MBBS or Post Graduation in Social Sciences/Humanities (History/ Psychology/ Sociology/ Social Work/ Cultural Studies) Ph.D. in Biophysics:

M.Phil. Biophysics/Neuroscience/MBBS/ M.Sc. in Biophysics/ Physics/ Biochemistry/ Biotechnology/ Life Sciences/ Physiology

M.Phil. Biophysics/Neuroscience/MBBS/ M.Sc. in Biophysics/ Physics/ Biochemistry/ Biotechnology/ Life Sciences/ Physiology Ph.D. in Biostatistics:

M.Stat. (ISI)/M.Sc. in Statistics/Biostatistics/Medical Statistics/Health Statistics/Agricultural Statistics

M.Stat. (ISI)/M.Sc. in Statistics/Biostatistics/Medical Statistics/Health Statistics/Agricultural Statistics Ph.D. in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry:

MD in Psychiatry or DNB in Psychiatry or M.Phil. in Clinical Psychology or M.Phil. in Psychiatric Social Work

MD in Psychiatry or DNB in Psychiatry or M.Phil. in Clinical Psychology or M.Phil. in Psychiatric Social Work Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology:

2 years full time MA/ M.Sc. in Psychology/ Counseling Psychology/ Psychological Counseling/ Clinical Psychology/ Applied Psychology/ M.Phil. degree in Mental Health and Social Psychology/M.Phil. in Clinical Psychology

2 years full time MA/ M.Sc. in Psychology/ Counseling Psychology/ Psychological Counseling/ Clinical Psychology/ Applied Psychology/ M.Phil. degree in Mental Health and Social Psychology/M.Phil. in Clinical Psychology Ph.D. in Human Genetics:

M.Sc. in any Life Sciences discipline

M.Sc. in any Life Sciences discipline Ph.D. in Mental Health Rehabilitation:

M.Sc. in Psychosocial Rehabilitation/M.Phil. in Clinical Psychology/M.Phil. in Psychiatric Social Work/M.Sc. in Psychiatric Nursing/MBBS

M.Sc. in Psychosocial Rehabilitation/M.Phil. in Clinical Psychology/M.Phil. in Psychiatric Social Work/M.Sc. in Psychiatric Nursing/MBBS Ph.D. in Neurochemistry:

M.Phil. in Neurosciences/ M.Sc. in Biochemistry/ M.Sc. in Medical Biochemistry/ M.Sc. in Biotechnology

M.Phil. in Neurosciences/ M.Sc. in Biochemistry/ M.Sc. in Medical Biochemistry/ M.Sc. in Biotechnology Ph.D. in Neurological Rehabilitation:

MBBS, Masters in Physiotherapy (MPT)/ Masters in Occupational therapy (MOT)/ Masters in Orthotics & Prosthetics/M.Phil. in Clinical Psychology/ M.Phil. in Psychiatric Social Work/ M.Phil. in Clinical Neurosciences/M.Sc. in Nursing/ M.Sc. in Speech Therapy/ MD/DNB in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

MBBS, Masters in Physiotherapy (MPT)/ Masters in Occupational therapy (MOT)/ Masters in Orthotics & Prosthetics/M.Phil. in Clinical Psychology/ M.Phil. in Psychiatric Social Work/ M.Phil. in Clinical Neurosciences/M.Sc. in Nursing/ M.Sc. in Speech Therapy/ MD/DNB in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Ph.D. in Neuroimaging & Interventional Radiology:

MBBS/ MD or DNB in Radiodiagnosis/M.Sc. in Medical Subjects/ BE/ B.Tech./ M.Tech. Degree

MBBS/ MD or DNB in Radiodiagnosis/M.Sc. in Medical Subjects/ BE/ B.Tech./ M.Tech. Degree Ph.D. in Neuromicrobiology:

MBBS/ MD Microbiology/ BE Biotechnology/ M.Phil. Neuroscience/ M.Sc. in Medical Microbiology/ Microbiology/ Biotechnology/ Molecular Biology/ MLT / Applied Microbiology/ Biochemistry/ Biomedical Genetics/ Neuroscience

MBBS/ MD Microbiology/ BE Biotechnology/ M.Phil. Neuroscience/ M.Sc. in Medical Microbiology/ Microbiology/ Biotechnology/ Molecular Biology/ MLT / Applied Microbiology/ Biochemistry/ Biomedical Genetics/ Neuroscience Ph.D. in Neuropathology:

MD in Pathology/ M.Sc. in Life Sciences/ MBBS

MD in Pathology/ M.Sc. in Life Sciences/ MBBS Ph.D. in Neurophysiology:

M.Phil. in Neuroscience/ Neurophysiology/ MBBS/ MD in Physiology/ MD in Ayurveda/ BE/ B.Tech. Electronics/ Electrical/ Computer Science/ Biotechnology/ M.Sc. in Physiology/ Biochemistry/ Anatomy/ Neuroscience/ Life Science/ Biotechnology/ Zoology/ Masters in Physiotherapy/ Masters in Unani Medicine

M.Phil. in Neuroscience/ Neurophysiology/ MBBS/ MD in Physiology/ MD in Ayurveda/ BE/ B.Tech. Electronics/ Electrical/ Computer Science/ Biotechnology/ M.Sc. in Physiology/ Biochemistry/ Anatomy/ Neuroscience/ Life Science/ Biotechnology/ Zoology/ Masters in Physiotherapy/ Masters in Unani Medicine Ph.D. in Neurovirology:

MBBS/MD in Microbiology/ M.Sc. in Medical Microbiology/ Microbiology/ Biotechnology/ Virology

MBBS/MD in Microbiology/ M.Sc. in Medical Microbiology/ Microbiology/ Biotechnology/ Virology Ph.D. in Nursing:

Masters Degree in Psychiatric Nursing

Masters Degree in Psychiatric Nursing Ph.D. in Psychiatric Social Work:

2 years full time Masters Degree in Social Work/M.Phil. in Psychiatric Social work

2 years full time Masters Degree in Social Work/M.Phil. in Psychiatric Social work Ph.D. in Psychiatry:

MBBS/MD/Postgraduate degree in the Basic Sciences or Humanities/BE/B.Tech./ME/M.Tech.

MBBS/MD/Postgraduate degree in the Basic Sciences or Humanities/BE/B.Tech./ME/M.Tech. Ph.D. in Psychopharmacology:

MD in Pharmacology/ Physiology/ Biochemistry/ MBBS/ BE Biotechnology/ Bioinformatics/ B.Tech. Biotechnology/ Bioinformatics/ ME Biotechnology/ Bioinformatics/ M.Sc. in Pharmacology/ Physiology/ Biochemistry/ Life Science/ Biotechnology/ Bioinformatics

MD in Pharmacology/ Physiology/ Biochemistry/ MBBS/ BE Biotechnology/ Bioinformatics/ B.Tech. Biotechnology/ Bioinformatics/ ME Biotechnology/ Bioinformatics/ M.Sc. in Pharmacology/ Physiology/ Biochemistry/ Life Science/ Biotechnology/ Bioinformatics Ph.D. in Speech Pathology & Audiology:

M.Sc. in Speech Pathology & Audiology or M.Sc. in Speech-Language Pathology or M.Sc. in Audiology

M.Sc. in Speech Pathology & Audiology or M.Sc. in Speech-Language Pathology or M.Sc. in Audiology M.Phil. in Biophysics:

MBBS/B.Tech in Biotechnology/ Electronics/ Computer Science/ M.Sc. in Biophysics/ Physics/ Biochemistry/ Biotechnology/ Life Sciences/ Zoology/ Chemistry/ Physiology

MBBS/B.Tech in Biotechnology/ Electronics/ Computer Science/ M.Sc. in Biophysics/ Physics/ Biochemistry/ Biotechnology/ Life Sciences/ Zoology/ Chemistry/ Physiology M.Phil. in Clinical Psychology:

2 years full time MA/ M.Sc. in Psychology/ Counseling Psychology/ Psychological Counseling/ Applied Psychology / Clinical Psychology

2 years full time MA/ M.Sc. in Psychology/ Counseling Psychology/ Psychological Counseling/ Applied Psychology / Clinical Psychology M.Phil. in Neurophysiology:

MBBS/ BAMS (Ayurveda)/BDS/M.Sc. in Physiology/ Neuroscience/ Anatomy/ Biochemistry/Zoology/ Biotechnology /Life Science/Molecular Biology/Bachelors in Unani Medicine

MBBS/ BAMS (Ayurveda)/BDS/M.Sc. in Physiology/ Neuroscience/ Anatomy/ Biochemistry/Zoology/ Biotechnology /Life Science/Molecular Biology/Bachelors in Unani Medicine M.Phil. in Neurosciences:

MBBS/ BE/ B.Tech. Electronics/ Electrical/ Computer Science/ Biotechnology/ M.Sc. in Physics/ Chemistry/ Biochemistry/ Anatomy/ Physiology/ Molecular Biology/ Genetics/Biotechnology/ Zoology/ Life Science/MA Psychology/ M.Sc. Psychology

MBBS/ BE/ B.Tech. Electronics/ Electrical/ Computer Science/ Biotechnology/ M.Sc. in Physics/ Chemistry/ Biochemistry/ Anatomy/ Physiology/ Molecular Biology/ Genetics/Biotechnology/ Zoology/ Life Science/MA Psychology/ M.Sc. Psychology M.Phil. in Psychiatric Social Work:

2 years full time MA/MSW degree in Social Work.

2 years full time MA/MSW degree in Social Work. Masters in Public Health:

MBBS

MBBS M.Sc. in Psychiatric Nursing:

Should be a Registered Nurse & Midwife with any State Nursing Registration Council with minimum passing of B.Sc. Nursing/ B.Sc. Hons.Nursing/ Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing with minimum of 55% aggregate marks from an Institute recognized by INC with minimum of one year experience after Basic B.Sc. Nursing as on the day of counseling. Minimu

Common for all Courses:

The qualifying degrees for all the above mentioned courses should be from a University recognized by NIMHANS. For Medical qualification the degree should be recognized by the Medical Council of India. The Candidates should have obtained not less than 55% of Marks in the aggregate of the Master's degree for non-medical courses.



A relaxation of 5% on the aggregate of marks obtained will be given for non-medical and Ph.D. courses in respect of SC/ST candidates.



10% relaxation in the qualifying marks of the Entrance Test for all Post Doctoral Fellowship courses for the Sponsored/Deputed Candidates.

F) GUIDELINES:

For Medical courses, the candidate should have completed compulsory rotation internship of one year after MBBS or its equivalent as recognized by Medical Council of India on or before the date of commencement of course i.e., 1st July 2021. A certificate to that effect has to be produced. The candidate should have permanent registration with State Medical Council. Candidates who do not submit the certificate of completion of internship on the day of admission to the course will not be admitted under any circumstance.

Candidates who have MD/MS/DNB/DPM from a recognized University or from any other University recognized as equivalent thereto by NIMHANS and by the Medical Council of India may apply for the course. Candidates who are awaiting the results may also appear for the entrance test subject to production of proof of having passed the examination on or before the date of admission to the course.

For Non-Medical courses, candidates should bring the results of their qualifying examination as on the date of Counseling/Interview.

G) FEES/EMOLUMENTS/RESERVATION OF SEATS:

Please refer website/prospectus for full details.

H) INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Application forms for all the courses are available online at the NIMHANS website www.nimhans.ac.in. The applications have to be filled online and submitted online. APPLICATIONS WITH ENCLOURES WILL BE RECEIVED ONLINE ONLY. ABSTRACT NEED NOT BE SENT SEPARATELY.

2. A candidate can apply for a maximum of 3 courses only provided they are eligible.

3.The Application fee is Rs.1500/- per course for General candidates and Rs.1000/- per course for SC/ST candidates for each course. PWD candidates are exempted from application fee. The payment is to be made online only with Debit/ Credit Cards and/or online transfer. Other mode of payment including Demand Draft will not be accepted at any cost.

4. Employees of State or Central Government or of any Public Sector Undertaking of State or Central Government should send their applications through their employers. However, the advance copy of the application (complete in all respects) can be submitted. In case the application is not received through the employer before the date of the ONLINE Entrance Test, a NO OBJECTION CERTIFICATE from the employer should be produced at the time of interview/counselling failing which the candidate will not be allowed to appear for interview/counselling.

5. AGE LIMIT: For PG Medical and Superspeciality courses, age should not be more than 32 years for MBBS degree holders and 35 for PG medical degree holders. Age is relaxable by a maximum of 5 years in the case of SC/ST candidates and by a maximum of 3 years for OBC candidates as on the date of commencement of course except for Superspeciality courses. Age should not be more than 45 years as on the date of commencement of courses in case of sponsored/deputed candidates. The maximum age limit for applying to M.Sc. in Biostatistics course is 30 years and relaxable by a maximum of 3 years for OBC candidates as on the date of commencement of course.Employees of NIMHANS applying for Ph.D. should have at least 10 years of service left before registering for Ph.D. Age is relaxable by a maximum of 5 years in the case of PWD candidates as on the date of commencement of course (check PWD block under reservation of seats section for more information). Age is calculated as on 1.7.2021.



I) GUIDELINES FOR ONLINE ENTRANCE TEST:

The Entrance Test will be held online (i.e., computer based). The seven cities identified for conduct of ON-LINE Entrance Test in the year 2021 are BENGALURU, CHENNAI, COCHIN, HYDERABAD in the South, PUNE in the West, DELHI in the North, and KOLKATA in the East. There may be multiple test centers in these cities and NIMHANS reserves the right to distribute applicants to any test center. A candidate has to select three cities, for taking examination, in the order of priority, i.e., 1st choice, 2nd choice and 3rd choice. However, the choice of City for taking examination, or center in a given city, cannot be claimed as a matter of right. Under exceptional circumstances like lack of minimum number of applicants for a given center in a given city, NIMHANS reserves the right to cancel the choice of city / center.

THE ENTRANCE TEST FOR ALL THE COURSES WILL BE HELD AT ALL THE CENTERS ACROSS INDIA

A mock test demo will be hosted on the NIMHANS website 15 days prior to the Online Entrance Test. The Online Entrance Test will be conducted for 2 days at all the Test Centres across the country.

In the event of unforeseen problem/force majeure, a re-exam will be held at a later date only for those who attended the abandoned exam. NIMHANS reserves the right to decide whether the re-exam relates to one or more cities, or one or more center, or one or more courses.

Possession/use of Mobile Phones/Electronic Devices/Spy Cameras/ Bluetooth is strictly prohibited on the premises of NIMHANS Entrance Test Centres and candidates shall be liable for penal action for any such act.

All the Candidates applying for admission to any course at NIMHANS, should give a declaration stating that I fulfil all the eligibility criteria and I am applying for the courses at NIMHANS. I understand that my candidature will be cancelled if I am found to have given wrong information. I also substantiate my claim by attaching necessary certificates .

Candidates possessing PG qualification in Medicine (MD/DNB) and Surgery (MS/DNB) will be considered only under PG category for DM in Neurology and M.Ch. in Neurosurgery courses respectively. If they apply under MBBS category, their Candidature will be disqualified.

Incomplete applications, applications without the mandatory attachment will be rejected. Applications without sufficient payment will also be rejected. The payment of the application fee of the rejected candidates will not be returned at any cost. No communication will be given against the rejected applications. No interim enquiry or correspondence will be entertained. Candidates called for Entrance Test and Counseling must be present at the venue within the stipulated time failing which they will not be considered for Entrance Test or Counseling at any cost.

NIMHANS reserves its absolute rights to modify/alter/amend the admission guidelines.

Eligible candidates must take printout of their Admit Card for the Entrance Test from NIMHANS website only. Admit Card will not be sent by post. List of qualified candidates for interview/counseling will be notified on the Institutes Notice Board and Website. No separate individual intimation will be given. The decision of the Director in all matters regarding selection will be final and no representation in any form will be entertained. The candidate must visit the website from time to time for all necessary details and updates on the above.

For more details visit institute's website.

Contact Details Address : National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS)

P.B.No.2900, Hosur Road, Bangalore-560 029 Phone : 080 - 26995013/15 Fax : - Mobile : - E-mail : Contact I Website : nimhans.ac.in/

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After a year of incomparable celebrity death, 2017 has been much slower to take beloved figures away. Thursday did bring a passing of a beloved actress, though. Barbara Hale, most famous for her role on the show "Perry Mason," passed away at the age of 94.

Hale's passing

Actor William Katt, the son of Barbara Hale, announced the passing of the actress on his Facebook page. His agent confirmed her death and stated that the former "Perry Mason" star died peacefully at her home surrounded by loved ones. She is survived by three children, six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

Hale's legacy

Hale was born in DeKalb, Illinois on April 18, 1922. Through her schooling, she didn't express any real interest in being an actress, instead wanting to be a commercial illustrator or portraitist. She ended up having a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, spotted on the streets of Chicago and quickly signed to a modeling contract.

After spending more than a decade toiling around the modeling and film industry, Hale finally received her big break as an actress when she was cast in "Perry Mason" in 1957. She played Della Street, the trusted secretary of Raymond Burr's titular character. She went on to play the role in all 271 episodes of the show, which aired as a legal drama on CBS for a decade.

The show was so popular that it led to 30 television movies (which Hale starred in) and is being revived for HBO in the coming years, starring Robert Downey Jr.

Hale officially retired from acting in 2000. She won an Emmy Award for her portrayal of Della Street on "Perry Mason" and was nominated for another one. Her time as an actress on the show earned her a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

She was also given a Golden Boot Award in 2001 in recognition of her contributions to western cinema, where she often played uncredited roles across some of Hollywood's most famous leading men, including James Stewart in "The Jackpot," James Cagney in "A Lion Is in the Streets," and Rock Hudson in "Seminole."
It doesnt take a genius techie to notice the great strides being taken by social network giant Facebook in fields beyond their original social media stomping grounds. In addition to sites and apps such as Messenger, Instagram, and the business-oriented Workplace, Facebook has gone into gaming and virtual reality hardware as well, with their dedicated division Oculus VR developing the well-received  if prohibitively expensive and performance-intensive  recreational headset the Oculus Rift. With the departure of Oculus VR CEO Brendan Iribe last December, Facebook boss Mark Zuckerberg has decided to bring in Brazilian tech maven Hugo Barra, late of Google and more recently of Chinese electronics rising star Xiaomi, to take up heading the companys virtual-reality arm.

Proven pedigree

Zuckerberg couldnt have come up with a better choice for the position on short notice. Barra was a real shoo-in for the tech career from the start, with time at MIT before joining Google in 2008, first at Google Mobile, then on to the Android development team in 2010. Here he would be involved in overseeing four Android OS versions, two Android smartphones and two tablets, along with Google Now and Google Voice Search. In 2013, Barra would go to China to serve as International Vice President for Xiaomi, by that point one of Chinas fastest growing electronics manufacturers. His hiring was considered a masterstroke of company founder Lei Jun, and he would be at the forefront of Xiaomis expansion and leap onto the international market.

Barra would go on to announce the next line of his new companys Apple-esque yet comparably affordable mobile gadgets  smartphones RedMi and Mi3, and the MiPad tablet. With carte blanche given to him on deciding which foreign markets Xiaomi would concentrate on, Barra posited inroads into Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore and prospectively the US and Latin America.

However this Monday January 23 he announced his intent to leave the company, citing his growing detachment from his family still in the States as well as all his old Silicon Valley associates, a separation that has reportedly affected his health. A recent problem with Xiaomi regarding the over-aggressive market expansion that has become increasingly difficult to manage has also been considered a factor.

VR the next step

Regarding his hire of Barra, Zuckerberg remarks that the two of them are in agreement with a vision that sees virtual reality and augmented reality becoming the next prominent computing platform. They even symbolically illustrated their new setup by posting a photo on FB Wednesday January 25 with their virtual avatars together. While his position as chief of Oculus VR is set, Barra notes he will actually start working for the Facebook subsidiary after a needed break of two months, placing it in mid or late March 2017. He hopes to get started working on immersive VR and AR tech by then.
Mei Sim Lai, the first female and first Chinese partner at the firm Pridie Brewster. PROVIDED TO CHINA DAILY

Mei Sim Lai has scored a lot of firsts in her life.

She was the first female  and first Chinese  partner at the chartered accountancy firm Pridie Brewster in 1979. She has been honorary secretary of the City of London branch of the Institute of Directors, one of the most prestigious because it groups together important London companies.

Then in 2004, she was given an OBE for services to equal opportunities.

The Malaysian-Chinese businesswoman has also had a privileged position from which to view the evolution of Chinese-UK relations, which reached a golden era with the visit of President Xi Jinping in October 2015.

But as with all relationships, it needs careful handling, says Lai. There is a need for ongoing respect for each other because things can happen very quickly to affect good relations.

She pointed to the British governments delay over the $21.7 billion Hinkley Point nuclear plant, in which China has a one-third share and which was only given the go-ahead in September. British Prime Minister Theresa May is reported to be much more cautious about closer ties with Beijing in terms of critical infrastructure.

Mei Sim Lai has led several delegations of British companies to China as part of her mission to break down barriers, not just with China but also for women and minority ethnic groups working in the City.

She talked to China Daily at the Oriental Club, an exclusive institution founded nearly 200 years ago by returning British officers and officials from India and the East. It only admitted women in 2010. Miss Lai now sits on its finance committee.

She remembers that, when she first arrived in London in 1970, it was extremely challenging to work and study at the same time as an articled clerk at Pridie Brewster. She is one of 10 children and luckily two of her sisters were already in the UK so she was able to live with them.

There were very few ethnic minorities or women working here when I started out. People werent sure if clients would really like someone from a different background, she says. I stood out, but I wasnt threatening to people. Once clients understood I knew what I was doing, I had no problems but initially I had to prove myself. I worked very hard because I wanted to be the best trainee.

She stayed for 36 years at Pridie Brewster, where her client-fee income was more than 500,000 a year for her work, which included auditing and business advice to clients. When the firm was taken over by a bigger company in 2005, she set up her own firm, LaiPeters & Co Chartered Accountants, a boutique business on which she now spends about one-third of her time.

The rest of her time she devotes to a long list of public and charitable organizations. As well as helping to set up the China Interests Group of the Institute of Directors in 2006 for members wanting to do business in China and for Chinese wanting to invest in the UK, she is also one of four executive directors of The 48 Group Club.

This influential club was founded in 1949 by some of the first icebreakers or Westerners to establish trade relations with China. It brings together well-known figures in business, government and academia with an interest in Sino-British relations.

The promotion of diversity in the workplace remains one of her biggest passions. There has been a debate in the UK in the past few years about how to promote women and ethnic minorities onto the boards of top companies and Lai has been at the forefront of this debate.

There have been some improvements in this area but its not been good enough, she says. Quotas for a limited time might be needed because there are even fewer ethnic minorities than women on boards, even though I know of a lot of very good people who would do well if appointed.
The Chinese Lunar New Year Family Day event held at the Kogod Courtyard of Smithsonian's American Art Museum in Washington on Saturday drew thousands of Americans, mostly parents with young children. [Photo by Chen Weihua/China Daily]

On Saturday, the first day of the Chinese Lunar New Year, the Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington was filled with Chinese music and shouts of joy of young children.

For the fourth year in a row, the museum's Kogod Courtyard was bustling with Chinese culture, with demonstrations of traditional paper-cutting, bristle dolls, dough sculpting, mask coloring, New Year's card making, Beijing folk artists' paintings and calligraphy, along with crowds making for a festive atmosphere.

Following the lion-awakening ceremony performed by David Skorton, secretary of the Smithsonian, and Chinese Ambassador to the US Cui Tiankai, shows by the Yong Han Lion Dance Troupe from Johns Hopkins University, the Beijing Chinese Orchestra and Beijing Acrobats in turn served up an auditory and visual feast.

Among the audience was Ajay Bhatt and his family from Chevy Chase, Maryland.

Growing up in New York, Bhatt used to go to New York's Chinatown to watch the Chinese New Year's parades from a very young age.

"We always had to cover our ears because their fireworks were very, very loud. But it was a lot of fun," he said. "So, it's a lot of good memories celebrating the Chinese New Year."

Now he had brought along his 3-year-old son Gabriel, who just got his face painted, to the museum in Washington's Chinatown to celebrate the Chinese New Year.

"It's a great event for families. We are very happy that the Smithsonian is putting this on," Bhatt said. "It's very important for kids to participate in cultural events from around the world."

Shakirra Cook, 13, was particularly interested in Asian culture because "it's beautiful," she said, calling it thrilling to take part in the cultural activities and meet diverse groups of people.

"I love the languages that they speak, and I would like to learn them," she said. "I'm self-teaching myself Japanese, and I want to learn Chinese."

She was waiting in line to try on a traditional Chinese costume, in her case a pink embroidered dress, and have her picture taken.

The Bisson family were no strangers to the Lunar New Year. Originally from Britain, they had lived in Vietnam for a few years.

"We want our kids to continue to get exposed to Chinese culture and learn about the Chinese New Year," said Andrew Bisson. "They are having a great time. They watched the lion dance, got their faces painted and are now doing some paper cuttings."

He was holding a rooster-shaped paper cutting made by his 7-year-old daughter Louisa.

Mayra Paixao from Brazil, on an au pair exchange program in Washington, said she couldn't help but join in the fun and celebrate with the crowd.

"I like this," she said. "There are lots of things for you to indulge in the culture, and it's nice to see more than the things we usually see."

An estimated 7,500 visitors attended the three-and-half-hour Chinese New Year Family Day event, up from the 7,000 who went last year and the most since the event started four years ago.

Skorton came to the event with his wife Robin Davisson. He said the two had visited China many times and made many close friends there.

Skorton, a former president of Cornell University, praised the contributions Chinese Americans have made to the US.

"If any member of your family is from China, today should be a day of great pride for you," he said.

The Confucius Institute at George Washington University had set up a booth and sent more than 15 volunteers to the event. They wanted to offer a window on how Chinese celebrate the Lunar New Year and present some of China's unique art forms.

"Particularly for the kids who generally have strong curiosities, directly participating in the process can be a great opportunity to learn about Chinese customs," said Frances Sun, managing director of GW's Confucius Institute.

Further Chinese New Year celebrations in Washington will be held at the Kennedy Center from Feb 4-6 and Smithsonian's Sackler Gallery on Feb 5.

Yuan Yuan contributed to this reporting.
United States Court of Appeals, Tenth Circuit. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, Plaintiff - Appellee, v. RODNEY MCINTOSH, Defendant - Appellant. No. 16-3259 Decided: January 24, 2017

Before HARTZ, O'BRIEN, and PHILLIPS, Circuit Judges.

ORDER DENYING CERTIFICATE OF APPEALABILITY AND DISMISSING APPEAL

While an inmate at Leavenworth federal prison, Rodney McIntosh hit prison employees with urine and other liquid substances and spit on them. He was indicted for nine counts of assault involving physical contact in violation of 18 U.S.C.  111(a)(1) and convicted by a jury of all but one. His conduct earned him a sentence of 144 months imprisonment. We affirmed his convictions and sentences and the Supreme Court denied certiorari review. See United States v. McIntosh, 573 F. App'x 760 (10th Cir.) (unpublished), cert. denied, 135 S. Ct. 768 (2014).

McIntosh filed a 28 U.S.C.  2255 motion and 38 related pleadings raising myriad claims. The district judge considered them all and denied the  2255 motion in a detailed 45-page order. McIntosh seeks to appeal from the denial but needs a certificate of appealability (COA) to do so. Miller-El v. Cockrell, 537 U.S. 322, 336 (2003) (a COA is a jurisdictional prerequisite to our review of a petition for a writ of habeas corpus). The judge denied a COA so he renews his request here.

COAs may issue only upon a substantial showing of the denial of a constitutional right. 28 U.S.C.  2253(c)(2). McIntosh must demonstrate that reasonable jurists could debate whether (or, for that matter, agree that) the petition should have been resolved in a different manner or that the issues presented were adequate to deserve encouragement to proceed further. Slack v. McDaniel, 529 U.S. 473, 484 (2000) (quotation marks omitted). When, as here, a district court's ruling rests on procedural grounds, it must be upheld unless jurists of reason would find it debatable whether the petition states a valid claim of the denial of a constitutional right and that jurists of reason would find it debatable whether the district court was correct in its procedural ruling. Slack v. McDaniel, 529 U.S. 473, 484 (2000).

In his COA application and opening brief, McIntosh makes various arguments relating to the indictment, the jury instructions, and his sentence. He also claims the witnesses presented perjured testimony, alleges an ex post facto claim, and says the government committed prosecutorial misconduct during closing argument. But, as the district judge decided, these claims are procedurally barred because he could have but did not raise them on direct appeal. United States v. Allen, 16 F.3d 377, 378 (10th Cir. 1994) (Section 2255 is not available to test the legality of matters which should have been raised on appeal.) (quotation marks omitted). A defendant who fails to present an issue on direct appeal is barred from raising the issue in a  2255 motion, unless he can show cause for his procedural default and actual prejudice resulting from the alleged errors, or can show that a fundamental miscarriage of justice will occur if his claim is not addressed. Id.

Here, McIntosh makes a broad statement blaming his attorney for not raising the claims on direct appeal. United States v. Harms, 371 F.3d 1208, 1211 (10th Cir. 2004) (A meritorious claim of ineffective assistance of counsel constitutes cause and prejudice for purposes of surmounting the procedural bar.). But the only specific claim is that appellate counsel should have challenged the judge's failure to instruct the jury on the lesser included offense of misdemeanor simple assault under 18 U.S.C.  111(a)(1). We restrict our review to that issue because the others are not sufficiently developed.

The district judge decided appellate counsel was not ineffective because McIntosh was not entitled to such instruction. She concluded misdemeanor simple assault is not a lesser included offense of assault involving physical contactthe indicted felony offensebecause simple assault requires a willful attempt or a threat to inflict injury and assault involving physical contact does not require an intent to cause bodily injury.

But since her decision in this case, we clarified that assault, i.e., a willful attempt to inflict injury upon the person of another, or a threat to inflict injury upon the person of another, is an element of every conviction under  111(a) including misdemeanor simple assault and felony assault involving physical contact. United States v. Wolfname, 835 F.3d 1214, 1216, 1218 (10th Cir. 2016). The only elemental difference between the two offenses is the latter's requirement of physical contact. Id. at 1218; see also United States v. Hathaway, 318 F.3d 1001, 1008-09 (10th Cir. 2003) (in the context of  111, the definition of simple assault is assault which does not involve actual physical contact; the only difference between a felony offense and a misdemeanor offense under  111(a) is the nature of the assault). Thus, for purposes of  111(a)(1), simple assault is a lesser included offense of assault involving physical contact. See Schmuck v. United States, 489 U.S. 705, 716 (1989) ([An] offense is [a lesser-included offense of the charged offense if] the elements of the lesser offense are a subset of the elements of the charged offense. Where the lesser offense requires an element not required for the greater offense, no [lesser-included-offense] instruction is to be given ).

Despite the intervening clarification of our precedent, the result here was proper. McIntosh was not entitled to a simple assault instruction because the element differentiating the two offensesphysical contactwas not in dispute at trial. See United States v. Moore, 108 F.3d 270, 272 (10th Cir. 1997) (a defendant is entitled to a lesser included offense instruction if, among other things, the elements differentiating the two offenses are in dispute). The government's argument and supporting evidence were clear and simple: McIntosh hit prison employees with bodily fluids. McIntosh denied doing so; he did not rely on an absence of physical contact. Thus, the evidence at trial did not warrant an instruction on simple assaultthe evidence only allowed the jury to decide that [McIntosh] either did or did not participate in [assault involving physical contact on the prison employees]. See United States v. Espinoza, 277 F. App'x 789, 792 (10th Cir. 2008) (unpublished). Because a lesser included offense instruction was not warranted by the evidence, counsel was not constitutionally ineffective for not raising this issue on direct appeal (the only specific claim presented for our consideration). See Cannon v. Mullin, 383 F.3d 1152, 1177 (10th Cir. 2004) (failure to raise meritless claims is not ineffective assistance).

McIntosh also claims he is actually innocent. [A]ctual innocence, if proved, serves as a gateway through which a petitioner may pass whether the impediment is a procedural bar  or  expiration of the statute of limitations. See McQuiggin v. Perkins, --- U.S. ---, 133 S. Ct. 1924, 1928 (2013). But actual innocence claims are rarely successful. Id.; see also Schlup v. Delo, 513 U.S. 298, 324 (1995). As the district judge decided, this case is no exception. McIntosh claims the prison employees lied at trial and the videotape evidence did not support their allegations. But a viable claim of actual innocence requires a petitioner to support his allegations of constitutional error with new reliable evidencewhether it be exculpatory scientific evidence, trustworthy eyewitness accounts, or critical physical evidencethat was not presented at trial. Schlup, 513 U.S. at 324 (emphasis added). McIntosh provides no new evidence.

Because the result reached by the district judge is not reasonably debatable, we DENY a COA and DISMISS this matter. The district judge allowed McIntosh to proceed on appeal without prepayment of fees (in forma pauperis or ifp). But only prepayment of fees is excused, not the fees themselves. See 28 U.S.C.  1915(a). McIntosh is required to pay all filing and docketing fees ($505.00). Payment must be made to the Clerk of the District Court.

Entered by the Court:

FOOTNOTES

. According to the evidence he also threatened to squirt feces on them.

. At the time of sentencing, McIntosh had completed the sentence he had been serving when he committed the instant offenses. However, he remained in custody pending trial in this case.

. Before trial McIntosh moved to dismiss the indictment because the prison employees discarded their clothing thereby depriving him of evidence. The motion was denied. On direct appeal he sought reversal on that issue but otherwise raised no merits challenge to his conviction. His appeal was mainly restricted to sentencing matters. The sentencing issues mentioned in his  2255 motion are different from those he raised on direct appeal.

. McIntosh has not claimed trial counsel was ineffective for not requesting a simple assault instruction.

. That is true, in large measure, because actual innocence is confused with technical innocence. Bousley v. United States, 523 U.S. 614, 623 (1998) ([A]ctual innocence means factual innocence, not mere legal insufficiency.) (quotation marks omitted).

. McIntosh claims the judge abused her discretion in denying him discovery to prove his actual innocence claim. But he sought only a copy of a prison videotape, which was presented at trial. That is not new evidence.

Terrence L. O'Brien United States Circuit Judge
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United States Court of Appeals, Eleventh Circuit. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, Plaintiff - Appellee, v. EDDIE CASANOVA, Defendant - Appellant. No. 15-14436 Decided: January 26, 2017

Before TJOFLAT, JORDAN, and JILL PRYOR, Circuit Judges.

Eddie Casanova appeals his conviction for conspiracy to distribute, and possess with the intent to distribute, 5 kilograms or more of cocaine, in violation of 21 U.S.C.  846 & 841(b)(1)(A)(ii). Mr. Casanova argues that there was insufficient evidence to sustain a conviction for the charged conspiracy because the government only presented evidence of two unrelated conspiracies, and not a single unified one.

Mr. Casanova also challenges his 262-month sentence, first arguing that the district court clearly erred in assigning him a base offense level of 32 under U.S.S.G.  2D1.1(c)(4) because the conspiracy did not involve more than 15, but less than 50, kilograms of cocaine. He asserts that the testimony of a co-defendant about an amount of additional cocaine was imprecise and uncorroborated, and that the additional cocaine that was referenced was transported outside of the timeframe for the conspiracy. Mr. Casanova additionally challenges two sentencing enhancements. He argues that the district court clearly erred in applying a 2-level increase under U.S.S.G.  2D1.1(b)(12) for maintaining premises for the purpose of manufacturing or distributing a controlled substance. And he argues that the district court clearly erred in applying a 2-level increase under U.S.S.G.  2D1.1(b)(1) for the presence of a firearm in connection with the conspiracy.

After consideration of the record and both parties' briefs, we affirm Mr. Casanova's conviction and sentence.

I

Mr. Casanova was charged by superseding indictment with one count of conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, 5 kilograms or more of cocaine. Mr. Casanova's co-defendants, Emilio Zundt, Jr., and Pablo Robledo, were also charged with conspiring to distribute, and possessing with intent to distribute, various amounts of cocaine. The indictment alleged that Mr. Zundt was responsible for 5 kilograms of cocaine or more and that Mr. Robledo was responsible for more than 500 grams, but less than 5 kilograms, of cocaine. Mr. Zundt and Mr. Robledo pled guilty and testified against Mr. Casanova at trial.

A

In March of 2015, Mr. Robledo was pulled over for a traffic violation in Mississippi while transporting cocaine from Texas to Florida for Mr. Casanova. During the traffic stop he consented to a search of his vehicle. The search led to the discovery of 3 kilograms of cocaine and 2 cellphones. Mr. Robledo then cooperated with the government and agreed to execute a controlled delivery.

Mr. Robledo made monitored contact via text messages and phone calls with Primo and Lolo, the two individuals he was working with to transport the cocaine to Florida. At the instruction of the agents, Mr. Robledo continued to plan the meeting with Lolo to give him the cocaine. Lolo agreed to meet Mr. Robledo at a hotel and said he would be driving a black Toyota. At the time of the rendezvous, Lolo was indeed driving a black Toyota and was arrested in connection with the cocaine that Mr. Robledo had been transporting. Mr. Robledo and the agent who had been monitoring the calls between Mr. Robledo and Lolo identified Mr. Casanova as Lolo. An analysis of Mr. Casanova's phone revealed that he had several conversations with Primo and Mr. Robledo.

As the government continued its investigation, it located several vehicles and storage facilities either owned by or associated with Mr. Casanova in both Texas and Florida, including two storage units in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. At those locations they discovered items typically associated with the drug trade, such as packaging materials, digital scales, and cutting agents. There were also some old vestiges from Mr. Casanova's defunct stucco business.

An additional 4.5 kilograms of cocaine and a firearm were found in a black truck located in a rented parking space that was associated with Mr. Casanova at a storage unit in Texas. The manager of the storage facility was familiar with Mr. Casanova and his co-defendant, Mr. Zundt. The government then arrested Mr. Zundt.

Mr. Zundt had met Mr. Casanova two years earlier, when he was working as a handyman for Mr. Casanova. Mr. Casanova offered Mr. Zundt the opportunity to transport cocaine from Texas to Florida for him. Mr. Zundt testified at trial that he had made numerous trips by bus and car transporting various amounts of cocaine for Mr. Casanova.

Mr. Zundt had been traveling with Mr. Casanova before he was arrested. They had journeyed from Texas to Florida together carrying between 4 and 5 kilograms of cocaine with them on the trip, though Mr. Casanova had anticipated that 8 kilograms would be transported from Texas to Florida. Mr. Casanova left Mr. Zundt at a hotel but failed to return from his meeting with Mr. Robledo. When Mr. Casanova did not return, Mr. Zundt took the cocaine back to Texas. He stopped at one of the storage facilities, changed cars, and removed a firearm that had been stored in the facility in order to hide it. Mr. Zundt testified that on a previous occasion Mr. Casanova had stored cocaine at one of the storage facilities, and that another time Mr. Casanova had prepared and packaged cocaine at one of the facilities.

Mr. Casanova did not present any witnesses at trial. He did, however, introduce evidence that his stucco business had received an award from the Deep Water Horizon oil spill. He then moved for a judgement of acquittal, which the district court denied.

Before deliberations began the district court gave the jury several instructions regarding conspiracy. One set out the basic concepts of a conspiracy, and explained that a person does not need to be aware of the entirety of the scheme or all parties involved to be convicted of being a member of a conspiracy. The district court also provided an instruction concerning multiple conspiracies. The government, the district court explained, was required to prove that Mr. Casanova was guilty of the charged conspiracy with Mr. Robledo and Mr. Zundt. The government would not meet its burden if it only proved separate conspiracies between the men, with no overall connection between them.

The jury found Mr. Casanova guilty as charged. Mr. Casanova again moved for a judgment of acquittal, arguing that the evidence presented by the government was insufficient to prove the charged conspiracy. The district court denied the motion. Mr. Casanova also filed a motion for new trial, but it too was denied.

B

According to the PSI, Mr. Casanova had a base level offense of 32 under U.S.S.G.  2D1 because his offense involved between 15 and 50 kilograms of cocaine. Mr. Casanova received a 2-level enhancement for maintaining premises for the purpose of manufacturing or distributing a controlled substance pursuant to U.S.S.G.  2D1.1(b)(12), an additional 2-level enhancement under U.S.S.G.  2D1.1(b)(1) for possessing a firearm, and another 2-level enhancement for being the organizer or leader under U.S.S.G.  3B1.1(c). This resulted in a total offense level of 38. Due to his prior criminal history, Mr. Casanova was assigned a criminal history category of II. An offense level of 38 and criminal history category of II resulted in an advisory guideline range of 262 to 327 months' imprisonment. Mr. Casanova objected to his base level offense being 32, and to the 2-level enhancements for possession of a firearm and maintaining premises for the purposes of manufacturing or distributing a controlled substance.

The district court overruled all of Mr. Casanova's objections. It found that there was sufficient evidence presented to support a total offense level of 38. The district court added up the total amount of cocaine for all of the trips taken by Mr. Robledo and Mr. Zundt at the direction of Mr. Casanova, and conservatively estimated that 16.5 kilograms of cocaine had been transported in relation to this conspiracy.

The district court also found sufficient evidence to support the enhancement for maintaining premises for the purpose of manufacturing or distributing a controlled substance. The evidence showed that Mr. Casanova's stucco business had closed years earlier, and the only testimony concerning the storage facilities was that they had been used to store or prepare drugs, that a gun was kept at one facility, and that they contained various items associated with drug distribution.

Finally, the district court found sufficient evidence to support the enhancement for possession of a firearm. It found that the gun belonged to Mr. Casanova, was kept at storage facility where he sent Mr. Zundt to store cocaine, and was transported in the same car as the cocaine was when it was taken back to Texas. The district court found that, based on these factors and Mr. Casanova's criminal history of drug dealing, the firearm was sufficiently related to the offense to allow the enhancement.

After overruling all of his objections, the district court sentenced Mr. Casanova to 262 months' imprisonment at the bottom of his advisory guideline range.

II

Mr. Casanova first argues that there was insufficient evidence to support his conviction. He contends that the government did not prove an overarching conspiracy between himself and his two co-defendants, and instead only proved two separate conspiracies, one between himself and Mr. Robledo, and another between himself and Mr. Zundt. Mr. Casanova argues that the proof of these two purported schemes is insufficient to prove that the three men were all part of the same conspiracy. We disagree.

We review a sufficiency of the evidence claim de novo. See United States v. Pacchioli, 718 F.3d 1294, 1299 (11th Cir. 2013). We view the evidence in the light most favorable to the verdict and draw all reasonable inferences and credibility choices in its favor. See id. Credibility determinations are the province of the jury, and we typically do not invade that province and make our own credibility determinations. See United States v. Copeland, 20 F.3d 412, 413 (11th Cir. 1994).

Mr. Casanova's sufficiency of the evidence claim has taken the form of a variance claim. A variance occurs when the evidence at trial establishes facts materially different from those alleged in the indictment. United States v. Caporale, 806 F.2d 1487, 1499 (11th Cir. 1986). In a conspiracy case where a variance is being alleged, we look to see if a reasonable juror could have found the existence of a single conspiracy beyond a reasonable doubt. United States v. Huff, 609 F.3d 1240, 1243 (11th Cir. 2010). As an initial matter we conclude that, although Mr. Casanova did not use the term variance in the district court, his argumentthat the government had proved two unrelated conspiracies and that he was being convicted of a different crime than what he was indicted forwas sufficient to preserve the claim for appeal. Thus we will review his claim de novo and not for plain error. See United States v. Dennis, 237 F.3d 1295, 1300 (11th Cir. 2001).

When a defendant claims a material variance between the indictment and the evidence presented at trial, we consider [f]irst whether a material variance did occur, and second, whether the defendant suffered substantial prejudice as a result. United States v. Chastain, 198 F.3d 1338, 1349 (11th Cir. 1999). We look at the evidence in the light most favorable to the government to determine whether there was a material variance. See United States v. Seher, 562 F.3d 1344, 1366 (11th Cir. 2009).

In order to convict a defendant of conspiracy under 21 U.S.C.  846, the government must show that (1) a conspiracy existed, (2) that the defendant knew of it, and (3) that the defendant, with knowledge, voluntarily joined it. See United States v. Perez-Tosta, 36 F.3d 1152, 1157 (11th Cir. 1994). [T]here is no material variance from an indictment charging a single conspiracy if a reasonable trier of fact could have found beyond a reasonable doubt the existence of the single conspiracy charged in the indictment. Caporale, 806 F.2d at 14991500. In order to make that determination, we consider (1) whether a common goal existed, (2) the nature of the underlying scheme, and (3) the overlap of participants. See Huff, 609 F.3d at 1243.

There was sufficient evidence for the jury to find the existence of one overreaching conspiracy, as charged in the indictment, beyond a reasonable doubt. The evidence demonstrated that Mr. Casanova was involved in one unified singular conspiracy with Mr. Robledo and Mr. Zundt. The three men were active participants in the transportation of cocaine from Texas to Florida for the purposes of sale and distribution. The jury could have found beyond a reasonable doubt that there was sufficient evidence all three men were involved in that particular goal based upon the testimony of Mr. Zundt and Mr. Robledo. Although aspects of their testimony may have been uncorroborated, that testimony was sufficient to sustain Mr. Casanova's conviction. See United States v. Broadwell, 870 F.2d 594, 601 (11th Cir. 1989). The methodical nature and elaborate manner in which Mr. Casanova utilized multiple parties, multiple vehicles, and multiple facilities in order to transport his cocaine across state lines illustrates the underlying framework Mr. Casanova was using to run the cocaine scheme.

Mr. Robledo and Mr. Zundt did not know about each other, but that was not fatal because the conspiracy here was a hub-and-spoke conspiracy. See Huff, 609 F.3d at 124344. This kind of conspiracy occurs when one conspirator (Mr. Casanova) recruits a separate group of co-conspirators (Mr. Robledo and Mr. Zundt) to carry out various functions of the illegal enterprise. See id. In this case the evidence showed that Mr. Casanova was the hub moving along the spokesMr. Robledo and Mr. Zundt. As a general matter, spokes in such a conspiracy do not need to know each other, as long as they are aware of the common aim. See Pacchioli, 718 F.3d at 1303.

There was sufficient evidence to show that Mr. Robledo and Mr. Zundt were both generally aware that other parties were involved in transporting cocaine from Texas to Florida. Mr. Robledo was in constant communication with Mr. Casanova and Primo during his trip from Texas to Florida, demonstrating his knowledge that other people besides himself and Mr. Casanova were involved in transporting the cocaine across state lines. Mr. Zundt was also aware of the existence of other parties. He had transported cocaine multiple times for Mr. Casanova. He also testified that on the last trip Mr. Casanova was expecting about 8 kilograms of cocaine, but he and Mr. Casanova only had between 4 and 5 kilograms. The additional 3 to 4 kilograms would have had to come from an additional party.

We note, as well, that the jury was given an instruction on the existence of multiple conspiracies, and expressly told that in order to convict Mr. Casanova, they had to agree that he was a member of the conspiracy charged in the indictment and not a member of some other conspiracy. That instruction gives us further confidence that the jury could reasonably find Mr. Casanova guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

III

Mr. Casanova challenges his base level offense of 32, which was based on more than 15, but less than 50, kilograms of cocaine. He asserts that the district court erred in its approximation and consideration of the weight of the cocaine of the previous trips taken by Mr. Zundt. We are not persuaded.

We review a district court's factual findings on the quantity of narcotics for clear error. See United States v. Rodriguez, 398 F.3d 1291, 1296 (11th Cir. 2005). Absent a definite and firm conviction that a mistake has been committed, we will not overturn a district court's factual findings. United States v. Crawford, 407 F.3d 1174, 1177 (11th Cir. 2005).

The Sentencing Guidelines provide that the base offense level for a drug offense is to be calculated by determining the quantity of drugs attributable to a defendant. See generally U.S.S.G.  2D1.1(a). When a conviction stems from a conspiracy charge, the defendant may be found responsible for the amount of drugs involved in all reasonably foreseeable acts done in furtherance of the conspiracy. See U.S.S.G.  1B1.3(a)(1)(B). In addition, a defendant may be held accountable at sentencing for illegal conduct not in furtherance of the offense of conviction if that conduct was part of the same course of conduct or common scheme or plan as the offense of conviction. United States v. Gomez, 164 F.3d 1354, 1356 (11th Cir. 1999) (internal quotation marks and citation omitted). In examining extrinsic conduct we evaluate the similarity, regularity, and temporal proximity between the count of conviction and the extrinsic offense in order to determine if they were part of the same course of conduct. See United States v. Maxwell, 34 F.3d 1006, 1011 (11th Cir. 1994).

When a defendant objects to a factual finding that is used in calculating his guideline sentence, such as drug amount, the government bears the burden of establishing the disputed fact by a preponderance of the evidence. Rodriguez, 398 F.3d at 1296. Although the preponderance burden is less than that of a beyond a reasonable doubt, it does not grant the court a license to sentence a defendant in the absence of sufficient evidence. Id.

The district court did not clearly err in finding that sufficient evidence was presented to assign Mr. Casanova a base level of 32 for possessing more than 15, but less than 50, kilograms of cocaine. The district court was permitted to use the evidence it heard during trial, undisputed statements in the PSI, and evidence presented at the sentencing hearing in making its determination. See United States v. Wilson, 884 F.2d 1355, 1356 (11th Cir. 1989).

We afford great deference to a district court's assessment of the credibility of witnesses and the evidentiary content of testimony. See United States v. Lee, 68 F.3d 1267, 1276 (1995). The district court relied upon the testimony of Mr. Zundt and Mr. Robledo to determine that Mr. Casanova was responsible for more than 15, but less than 50, kilograms of cocaine. When the amount of drugs seized does not match the scale of the offense, the district court is permitted to approximate the quantity of the controlled substance. See United States v. Frazier, 89 F.3d 1501, 1506 (11th Cir. 1996). When a district court approximates a quantity of drugs, the approximation must be fair, accurate, and conservative. See United States v. Zapata, 139 F.3d 1355, 1359 (11th Cir. 1998).

The evidence showed that 7.5 kilograms of cocaine were seized from Mr. Zundt and Mr. Robledo. The district court relied upon the testimony of Mr. Zundt about his other previous trips to approximate the remaining kilograms. Mr. Zundt testified that he had made 10 trips by bus carrying between 1/2 a kilogram and 1 kilogram of cocaine, and had made four trips by car carrying between 1 and 2 kilograms of cocaine. He also testified that the amount of cocaine Mr. Casanova had him transporting had been increasing, and on this trip they expected to transport about 8 kilograms of cocaine total. The district court assumed that the 8 kilograms he was referring to was the cocaine recovered from Mr. Robledo. The district court then assumed the lowest weight possible for all of the various trips by bus and car. At 10 bus trips with a 1/2 kilogram each trip, Mr. Zundt transported approximately 5 kilograms of cocaine at the behest of Mr. Casanova. At four trips by car, carrying at least 1 kilogram of cocaine per trip, Mr. Zundt transported approximately 4 kilograms of cocaine by car. The 9 kilograms from those trips, combined with the 7.5 recovered kilograms of cocaine recovered, results in a total weight of at least 16.5 kilograms of cocaine. The methodology used by the district court in assuming the lowest weight for the bus and car trips was fair, accurate, and conservative. See Zapata, 139 F.3d at 1359. In addition, there were the 3 kilograms recovered from Mr. Robledo and the extra 3 to 4 kilograms that Mr. Casanova and Mr. Zundt were going to acquire on their last trip.

We note that the conspiracy Mr. Casanova was charged with began on or around January 1, 2014, and that Mr. Zundt testified that he believed that he had transported cocaine for Mr. Casanova prior to that date. This possibility did not cause the district court to err. Mr. Zundt testified that he had only known Mr. Casanova for two years (or less) prior to the trial in July of 2015, and that he had worked for him as a handyman prior to transporting drugs for him. Assuming that Mr. Casanova and Mr. Zundt met on July 1, 2013, two years before trial, that was only five months prior to the start of the charged conspiracy. And during that time frame Mr. Casanova and Mr. Zundt were still engaging in the exact same conduct as what was charged in the conspiracy. We conclude that the district court did not err in including the weight of the cocaine from possible trips prior to the start date of January 1, 2014, due to the similarity, regularity, and temporal proximity of the crimes. See United States v. Simpson, 228 F.3d 1294, 1301-02 (11th Cir. 2000).

IV

Mr. Casanova next challenges the district court's application of a 2-level increase to his base level offense for being in possession of a firearm in relation with a drug trafficking offense pursuant to U.S.S.G.  2D1.1(b)(1). He argues that the firearm that was found at one of his storage units was not sufficiently related to him and the crime he was charged with. We disagree.

The application of an enhancement for possession a firearm is a factual determination which we review for clear error. United States v. Stallings, 463 F.3d 1218, 1220 (11th Cir. 2006). The enhancement for weapon possession reflects the increased danger of violence when drug traffickers possess weapons. The adjustment should be applied if the weapon was present, unless it is clearly improbable that that the weapon was connected with the offense. U.S.S.G.  2D1.1, comment. (n.3). The government must show by a preponderance of evidence that the firearm was present at the site of the charged conduct or prove that the defendant possessed a firearm during conduct associated with the offense of conviction. Stallings, 463 F.3d at 1220. The government must demonstrate that the firearm had some actual connection with the trafficking crime; it cannot be a mere accident or coincidence or simple possession. See id. at 122021. Once that burden is met, the defendant must establish that a connection between the weapon and the offense is clearly improbable. See id. at 1220.

The district court did not clearly err in finding that the 2-level enhancement applied to Mr. Casanova. Mr. Zundt testified that, after learning that Mr. Casanova had been arrested, he went back to one of the storage facilities and removed the firearm. He testified that he transported the firearm back to Texas in order to hide it. Mr. Zundt's actions as co-conspirator are attributable to Mr. Casanova. See United States v. Fuentes, 991 F.2d 700, 701 (11th Cir. 1993). In addition, Mr. Zundt also testified that the firearm was stored at a storage facility where he and Mr. Casanova had previously stored cocaine. The amount of cocaine, the number of trips, the presence of the firearm at a storage facility where cocaine had been stored, and the attempted cover-up by Mr. Zundt permitted the district court to apply the enhancement.

V

Mr. Casanova also appeals the 2-level enhancement he received for maintaining premises for the purpose of manufacturing or distributing a controlled substance. He argues that the district court erred in finding that his storage facilities were used primarily for the purposes of manufacturing or distributing a controlled substance. We are not convinced.

We review the district court's finding that Mr. Casanova maintained premises for the manufacture or distribution of drugs for clear error. See United States v. Barrington, 648 F.3d 1178, 1195 (11th Cir. 2011). The government was required to prove the enhancement by a preponderance of evidence. See id.

The district court did not clearly err when it found that the government had met its burden and applied the two-level enhancement for maintaining premises for the purpose of manufacturing or distributing a controlled substance pursuant to U.S.S.G.  2D1.1(b)(12). The enhancement may be applied when the premise is a building, room, or enclosure used for storage of a controlled substance for the purpose of distribution.  2D1.1, comment. (n.17). Application Note 17 also indicates that the district court properly considered Mr. Casanova's possessory interest in the property and to what extent he controlled access and the activities on the premises. See id. The manufacture and distribution of controlled substance does not need to be the sole use of the premises, but it must be a principal one as opposed to a collateral one. See id.

Mr. Zundt testified at trial and at the sentencing hearing about the numerous rental facilities that he and Mr. Casanova utilized when transporting the cocaine from Texas to Florida. Mr. Casanova had unlimited access to the facilities and controlled when the duo went there. The evidence presented at trial concerning the use of the units showed that they were only used to aid Mr. Zundt and Mr. Casanova when they were transporting cocaine. Mr. Casanova even prepared cocaine for distribution at one of the units in one instance. Drug distribution materials were also present in the facilities, and Mr. Zundt testified that the facilities in Fort Walton Beach were only used to store drugs. There was some evidence presented that one of the units contained the remnants of Mr. Casanova's stucco business, and a claim relating to the Deep Water Horizon oil spill, but those items did not demonstrate any recent use of the units for those purposes.

In sum, we conclude that there was sufficient evidence to sustain the enhancement for maintaining premises for the purpose of manufacturing or distributing a controlled substance.

VI

Upon review of the record and consideration of the parties' briefs, we affirm Mr. Casanova's conviction and sentence.

AFFIRMED.

PER CURIAM:
United States Court of Appeals, Eleventh Circuit. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, Plaintiff-Appellee, v. PEDRO RAMIREZ, Defendant-Appellant. No. 15-15283 Decided: January 26, 2017

Before ED CARNES, Chief Judge, HULL and WILSON, Circuit Judges.

Pedro Ramirez pleaded guilty to failure to register as a sex offender in violation of 18 U.S.C.  2250(a). The presentence investigation report recommended a base offense level of 14 under  2A3.5(a)(2) of the United States Sentencing Guidelines (2014) because Ramirez met the criteria as a Tier II offender. The PSR also recommended an eight-level increase under  2A3.5(b)(1)(C) of the guidelines because he had committed a sex offense against a minor during the period when he had failed to register as a sex offender. After taking into account Ramirez's acceptance of responsibility and calculating his total offense level to be 19, and after assigning Ramirez with a criminal history category of IV, the resulting advisory guidelines range was 46 to 57 months imprisonment.

Ramirez appeals that sentence, contending that (1) the district court erred in classifying him as a Tier II sex offender, (2) the district court erred in applying the eight-level enhancement for committing a sex offense against a minor while failing to register as a sex offender, and (3) that his sentence was procedurally unreasonable. As to his first two arguments, we review de novo the district court's interpretation and application of the sentencing guidelines and we review for clear error its factual findings. See United States v. De La Cruz Suarez, 601 F.3d 1202, 1219 (11th Cir. 2010). As for his third argument, we review for abuse of discretion the procedural reasonableness of a sentence. See United States v. Register, 678 F.3d 1262, 1266 (11th Cir. 2012).

I.

Section 2A3.5(a)(2) of the guidelines provides for a base offense level of 14 for a defendant who was required to register as a Tier II offender. U.S.S.G.  2A3.5(a)(2). The definition of Tier II sex offender includes a person who was convicted of a sex offense that is both punishable by imprisonment for more than 1 year and comparable to the offense of abusive sexual contact (as described in section 2244 of title 18) when committed against a minor. 42 U.S.C.  16911(3). The crime of abusive sexual contact under  2244 includes engage[ing] in sexual contact with another person without that other person's permission. 18 U.S.C.  2244(b).

In 2002 Ramirez was found guilty of committing Florida sexual battery (slight force) and found not guilty of unlawful sexual activity with a minor. Florida's crime of sexual battery (slight force) is governed by  794.011(5) of the Florida code which, at that time, provided:

A person who commits sexual battery upon a person 12 years of age or older, without that person's consent, and in the process thereof does not use physical force and violence likely to cause serious personal injury commits a felony of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, s. 775.084, or s. 794.0115.

Fla. Stat.  794.011(5) (West 2000). Ramirez contends that the fact that he was found not guilty of unlawful sexual activity with a minor demonstrates that the sexual encounter in that case was consensual, and that the only reason he was convicted of sexual battery was because the 16-year-old victim could not legally provide consent. That distinction, however, does not matter. Ramirez was convicted of sexual battery, which required that the jury find that the contact was not consensual. The district court did not err in finding that Ramirez qualified as a Tier II offender because of his prior conviction for sexual battery, a crime comparable to abusive sexual contact against a minor.

II.

Ramirez also contends that the district court erred in applying the eight-level enhancement for committing a sex offense against a minor while unregistered. Section 2A3.5(b)(1)(A) of the guidelines provides that [i]f, while in a failure to register status, the defendant committed  a sex offense against a minor, increase by 8 levels. Ramirez argues that the enhancement was improper because the only evidence supporting the facts underlying it was unreliable hearsay.

When the government seeks to apply an enhancement under the Sentencing Guidelines over a defendant's factual objection, it has the burden of introducing sufficient and reliable evidence to prove the necessary facts by a preponderance of the evidence. United States v. Washington, 714 F.3d 1358, 1361 (11th Cir. 2013) (quotation marks omitted). [A] court may rely on hearsay at sentencing, as long as the evidence has sufficient indicia of reliability, the court makes explicit findings of fact as to credibility, and the defendant has an opportunity to rebut the evidence. United States v. Anderton, 136 F.3d 747, 751 (11th Cir. 1998). A district court's failure to make explicit findings about the reliability of a witness' hearsay testimony, however, does not require reversal when the reliability is apparent from the record. United States v. Docampo, 573 F.3d 1091, 1098 (11th Cir. 2009).

The conduct at issue for the eight-level enhancement involved Ramirez's contact with a 12-year-old girl, and the hearsay Ramirez challenges is the statements the girl made to her mother and to a law enforcement investigator. At the sentence hearing the child's mother testified that Ramirez was staying at her home one night when she woke up to find him standing outside of her daughter's bedroom. After she went into that bedroom, her daughter, who was in a distressed state, told her that Ramirez had been in that room and had been groping her. The mother reported Ramirez to the police, and the investigator who responded to that report also testified at the sentence hearing that the child, who was visibly upset when he spoke to her, had told him that Ramirez had groped her.

While the district court did not explicitly state that it found the hearsay reliable, the consistency of the child's statements to both her mother and the investigator, along with their testimony that the child was visibly upset that night, make the reliability of her statements apparent from the record. The district court did not err in allowing the hearsay testimony to be admitted into evidence and concluding that the necessary facts had been established by a preponderance of the evidence at the sentence hearing.

Ramirez also argues that the eight-level enhancement was improper because he was not convicted of a sex offense for his actions toward the 12-year old child. After the mother reported Ramirez to law enforcement, he was charged with lewd or lascivious molestation but was convicted only of felony battery. He now contends that for the eight-level enhancement to apply he had to have been convicted of a sex offense against a minor. The language of the guideline enhancement, however, does not require a conviction. It instead calls for an enhancement if the defendant committed a sex offense against a minor. See U.S.S.G. 2A3.5(b)(1)(C); see also United States v. Lott, 750 F.3d 214, 22021 (2d Cir. 2014) (Neither 42 U.S.C.  16911(5) nor U.S.S.G.  2A3.5(b)(1)(C) require a sex offense conviction in order to apply an eight-level increase pursuant to section 2A3.5; conduct amounting to a sex offense is enough.). As a result, the district court did not err in imposing the eight-level enhancement even though there was no sex offense conviction for the conduct.

III.

Finally, Ramirez contends that his sentence is procedurally unreasonable. A sentence may be procedurally unreasonable and therefore an abuse of discretion if the court commits a significant procedural error such as failing to consider the Guidelines or miscalculating the Guideline range, failing to give due weight to the [18 U.S.C.]  3553(a) factors, or failing to explain the reason for a chosen sentence. United States v. Bonilla, 579 F.3d 1233, 1245 (11th Cir. 2009).

Ramirez contends that his sentence is procedurally unreasonable because the district court incorrectly calculated the guidelines range and failed to consider the  3553(a) factors. As we have already noted, the two guidelines challenges Ramirez makes  his classification as a Tier II offender and the imposition of the eight-level enhancement  fail. As for his contention that the district court failed to consider the  3553(a) factors, at the sentence hearing the district court explicitly stated that it had considered all seven factors in  3553(a) as well as Ramirez's arguments. The district court did not commit procedural error in sentencing Ramirez.

AFFIRMED.

FOOTNOTES

. While Florida sexual battery is not limited to victims who are minors, Ramirez concedes that the victim of his Florida crime was 16 years old.

. He also contends that the district court should not have allowed the hearsay to be admitted because he was deprived of the opportunity to confront the declarant. That argument has no merit and is foreclosed by our precedent. See United States v. Cantellano, 430 F.3d 1142, 1146 (11th Cir. 2005) (The right to confrontation is not a sentencing right.).

PER CURIAM:
United States Court of Appeals, Eleventh Circuit. SVETLANA GRIGORE SUMSCHI, Petitioner, v. U.S. ATTORNEY GENERAL, Respondent. No. 16-10196 Decided: January 26, 2017

Before TJOFLAT, MARTIN and ANDERSON, Circuit Judges.

Svetlana Grigore Sumschi, a citizen of Moldova, seeks review of the final order of the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) affirming an Immigration Judge's (IJ) denial of her application for asylum, withholding of removal, and relief under the United Nations Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CAT). Sumschi contends that she was politically persecuted in Moldova when she was assaulted and threatened because of her opposition to the Communist Party. She also argues that she has a well-founded fear of future political persecution if she is removed to Moldova.

We review the BIA's decision as the final judgment in an immigration appeal. Gonzalez v. U.S. Att'y Gen., 820 F.3d 399, 403 (11th Cir. 2016). When the BIA explicitly agrees with the IJ's findings, we review both the BIA and the IJ as to those findings. Jeune v. U.S. Att'y Gen., 810 F.3d 792, 799 (11th Cir. 2016). The BIA explicitly agreed with certain findings by the IJ in this case, so we review those IJ findings in addition to the BIA's decision. See id.

We review our subject matter jurisdiction de novo. Indrawati v. U.S. Att'y Gen., 779 F.3d 1284, 1297 (11th Cir. 2015). Under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), we lack jurisdiction to review a final order in an immigration case unless the alien has exhausted all administrative remedies available to the alien as of right. INA  242(d)(1), 8 U.S.C.  1252(d)(1). An alien who failed to argue the core issue now on appeal before the BIA did not exhaust administrative remedies with respect to that issue. Indrawati, 779 F.3d at 1297 (quotation omitted). Issues that are not raised in an appellate brief are abandoned. Ruga v. U.S. Att'y Gen., 757 F.3d 1193, 1196 (11th Cir. 2014).

Factual findings are reviewed under the highly deferential substantial evidence test. Adefemi v. Ashcroft, 386 F.3d 1022, 102627 (11th Cir. 2004) (en banc). We must affirm the BIA's decision if it is supported by reasonable, substantial, and probative evidence on the record considered as a whole. Id. at 1027 (quotations omitted). We view the record evidence in the light most favorable to the BIA's decision and draw all reasonable inferences in favor of that decision. Id. We reverse a factual finding only when the record compels a reversal; the mere fact that the record may support a contrary conclusion is not enough to justify a reversal. Id.

An applicant for asylum must meet the INA's definition of refugee. INA  208(b)(1)(A), 8 U.S.C.  1158(b)(1)(A). A refugee is

any person who is outside any country of such person's nationality  and who is unable or unwilling to return to, and is unable or unwilling to avail himself or herself of the protection of, that country because of persecution or a well-founded fear of persecution on account of race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.

INA  101(a)(42)(A), 8 U.S.C.  1101(a)(42)(A). The alien must prove persecution or a well-founded fear of persecution with specific and credible evidence. Diallo v. U.S. Att'y Gen., 596 F.3d 1329, 1332 (11th Cir. 2010).

[P]ersecution is an extreme concept requiring more than a few isolated incidents of verbal harassment or intimidation[, and] mere harassment is not persecution. Rodriguez v. U.S. Att'y Gen., 735 F.3d 1302, 1308 (11th Cir. 2013) (quotation omitted). Determining whether an alien was persecuted involves considering the cumulative effect of the allegedly persecutory incidents. Diallo, 596 F.3d at 1333. We have not required serious physical injury [to prove persecution] where the [alien] demonstrates repeated threats combined with other forms of severe mistreatment. De Santamaria v. U.S. Att'y Gen., 525 F.3d 999, 100910 (11th Cir. 2008). For example, we previously concluded that the record compelled a finding that an alien was persecuted when she received repeated death threats over the course of two years and was dragged from her vehicle by her hair, was traumatized by the torture and murder of a family groundskeeper who refused to reveal her whereabouts, and was kidnapped and beaten. Id. at 100910. We concluded that substantial evidence supported a finding that an alien was not persecuted when he was arrested while participating in a demonstration, interrogated and beaten for five hours, and detained for four days. Kazemzadeh v. U.S. Att'y Gen., 577 F.3d 1341, 1353 (11th Cir. 2009); see also Djonda v. U.S. Att'y Gen., 514 F.3d 1168, 1171, 1174 (11th Cir. 2008) (concluding that the record did not compel a finding of persecution when an alien was threatened, detained for 36 hours, and beaten).

A credible death threat by a person who has the immediate ability to act on it constitutes persecution regardless of whether the threat is successfully carried out. Diallo, 596 F.3d at 133334 (concluding that an alien was persecuted by the soldiers who killed his brother when the alien was beaten, detained for eleven hours, and threatened with death before he escaped). Attempted murder constitutes persecution even if the alien is not physically injured. Sanchez Jimenez v. U.S. Att'y Gen., 492 F.3d 1223, 1233-34 (11th Cir. 2007) (concluding that an alien was persecuted when a revolutionary group attempted to murder him by shooting at his moving car).

An alien proves a well-founded fear of persecution by establishing a reasonable possibility he or she would be singled out individually for persecution, or that he is a member of, or is identified with, a group that is subjected to a pattern or practice of persecution. Djonda v. U.S. Att'y Gen., 514 F.3d 1168, 1174 (11th Cir. 2008) (quotation omitted). The alien must establish that the government would be her persecutor or that the government would be unwilling or unable to protect her from persecution by a private actor. Malu v. U.S. Att'y Gen., 764 F.3d 1282, 1291 (11th Cir. 2014). The alien's fear of persecution must be both subjectively genuine and objectively reasonable. De Santamaria, 525 F.3d at 1007. The subjective component is generally satisfied by the applicant's credible testimony that he or she genuinely fears persecution. Id. at 1007 (quotations omitted). An alien who shows past persecution is presumed to have a well-founded fear of persecution. Shi v. U.S. Att'y Gen., 707 F.3d 1231, 1235 (11th Cir. 2013).

An alien may not be removed to a country if the alien's life or freedom would be threatened in that country on account of race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. INA  241(b)(3)(A), 8 U.S.C.  1231(b)(3)(A). An alien seeking withholding of removal must show that it is more likely than not that he will be persecuted on account of a protected ground if he returned to his home country. Gonzalez, 820 F.3d at 403. An alien unable to meet the well-founded fear standard for asylum generally fails to meet this more stringent standard for withholding of removal. Sanchez Jimenez, 492 F.3d at 1239.

An alien is eligible for CAT relief if the alien establishes it is more likely than not that she would be tortured if removed to the proposed country of removal. 8 C.F.R.  208.16(c)(2). Torture is

any act by which severe pain or suffering, whether physical or mental, is intentionally inflicted on a person for such purposes as obtaining from him or her or a third person information or a confession, punishing him or her for an act he or she or a third person has committed or is suspected of having committed, or intimidating or coercing him or her or a third person, or for any reason based on discrimination of any kind, when such pain or suffering is inflicted by or at the instigation of or with the consent of acquiescence of a public official or other person acting in an official capacity.

8 C.F.R.  208.18(a)(1).

Upon review of the record and consideration of the parties' briefs, we deny the petition. As an initial matter, Sumschi adequately exhausted her arguments regarding a well-founded fear of future persecution. She raised the core issue of future persecution to the BIA by arguing that evidence of human rights problems, government corruption, and Community Party activity demonstrates she will be persecuted if removed to Moldova. See Indrawati, 779 F.3d at 1297. Thus, she adequately exhausted the arguments regarding a well-founded fear of future persecution that she raises to this Court. See Indrawati, 779 F.3d at 1297 (stating that exhaustion is not a stringent requirement and simply requires an alien to have argued the core issue now on appeal before the BIA (quotation omitted)). As to waiver, Sumschi does not abandon her arguments regarding a well-founded fear of future persecution. She essentially challenges the BIA's entire well-founded fear finding by arguing that the evidence shows she has an objective, reasonable fear of being persecuted and that there is corruption, abuse, and Communist infiltration in the Moldovan government. Thus, we reach the merits of her future persecution argument.

Substantial evidence supports the IJ and BIA's denial of asylum. First, the record does not compel reversal of the IJ and the BIA's determination that Sumschi's assaults and threats considered cumulatively do not rise to the level of persecution. Sumschi was trampled during an anti-Communist demonstration when the police began to disburse the demonstrators. However, her testimony reflects that she was not specifically targeted, but was injured because the situation became chaotic. Two women confronted her in an elevator after distributing political flyers. One of the women held a knife to her throat and threatened to kill her and her family if she continued to oppose the Communist Party. However, her testimony indicates that the women released her from the elevator and did not intend or attempt to kill her. She and her family received threatening telephone calls from the women after the incident in the elevator, but she remained in Moldova for nearly a year following the incident and was never again directly confronted. Sumschi did not face attempted murder or the type of severe mistreatment that we have recognized as persecution. See, e.g., De Santamaria, 525 F.3d at 100910; Sanchez Jimenez, 492 F.3d at 1233. In fact, we previously held that worse treatment than that suffered by Sumschi did not constitute persecution. See, e.g., Kazemzadeh, 577 F.3d at 1353; Djonda, 514 F.3d at 1171, 1174. Substantial evidence supports the IJ and BIA's determination that Sumschi's treatment in Moldova did not reach an extreme level that constitutes persecution. See Rodriguez, 735 F.3d at 1308 (referring to persecution as an extreme concept requiring more than mere harassment or intimidation (quotation omitted)).

Second, the record does not compel reversal of the BIA's decision that Sumschi has not shown an objective, well-founded fear of persecution if removed to Moldova. The evidence reflects that the Communist Party lost the majority in the Moldovan parliament before Sumschi left the country and that a coalition of opposition parties controls the parliament and elected a president. Although government corruption and torture of detained people by the police continue to be problems in Moldova, the government increased sentences for torture and replaced officials in charge of police forces. Individuals can criticize the government without reprisal and have the right to change their government peacefully through elections. Sumschi did not present evidence showing that Communists continue to target political opponents, and she and her family have not been threatened since November 2010. Consequently, there is substantial evidence in the record to support the BIA's determination that Sumschi did not demonstrate an objective, well-founded fear of future persecution in Moldova.

Because Sumschi has not established asylum eligibility, substantial evidence also supports the BIA's decision that she has not met the higher burden to show eligibility for withholding of removal. See Sanchez Jimenez, 492 F.3d at 1238-39. Additionally, based on the above analysis, substantial evidence supports the IJ and the BIA's determination that she has not established eligibility for CAT relief by showing that it is more likely than not she will be tortured if removed to Moldova. See 8 C.F.R.  208.16(c)(2).

PETITION DENIED.

PER CURIAM:
United States Court of Appeals, Third Circuit. WILLIAM GILSON, Appellant v. PENNSYLVANIA STATE POLICE, an agency of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania; MARK SCHAU; KYLE TETER; LISA S. CHRISTIE; WILLIAM SIBBALD; DEBRA FACCIOLO; FRANK NOONAN No. 16-2144 Decided: January 23, 2017

Before: SMITH, Chief Judge, JORDAN, and SHWARTZ, Circuit Judges

OPINION*

William Gilson appeals the order of the District Court granting summary judgment in favor of his former employer, the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) and related individual defendants, on his claims of deprivation of due process and gender discrimination arising from his termination from the PSP. We will affirm.

I.

Trooper Gilson was employed by the PSP from 1994 to 2011. On August 17, 2009, Gilson and others, including Trooper William Sibbald, Jr., responded to an incident involving the involuntary commitment of a young man. Sandra Grgic, a female crisis services worker, was also present at the scene. It is undisputed that Trooper Gilson briefly had physical contact with Grgic, although the extent of and nature of this contact is disputed. According to Gilson, he tapped Grgic's elbow and asked her a question about where the individual being committed was to be taken. According to Grgic, Gilson placed his left arm around her waist and pulled her toward himself.

Grgic called the PSP and made a complaint on August 24, 2009. The PSP's Internal Affairs Division subsequently conducted an investigation, led by Sergeant Mark Noce. Sergeant Noce interviewed Grgic, Gilson, Sibbald, and others who were present at the scene of the incident. Noce interviewed Gilson twice and, before each interview, Noce read to Gilson a formal Administrative Warning, which stated, among other things, you are required to answer questions truthfully and completely or you may be subjected to administrative action. App. 1043. Gilson flatly, and repeatedly, denied having touched Grgic on her waist, maintaining that he had only touched her elbow. According to Noce, Grgic described the touching as unwanted, inappropriate, and on a personal area of her body. App. 1003. Sergeant Noce determined that no one else had observed the incident between Gilson and Grgic, except Trooper Sibbald. Grgic's and Sibbald's accounts of the incident differed only in that Sibbald stated that Grgic had quickly pushed herself away from Gilson, while Grgic said that she had walked away.

Sergeant Noce submitted a report of his investigation (the IAD Report), dated November 23, 2009, to Trooper Gilson's commanding officer, Captain Mark Schau. On December 8, 2009, Captain Schau issued a Summary Report to Trooper Gilson, which summarized the investigation, stated that he had determined that the allegation had merit and that he was considering taking disciplinary action against Gilson. The Summary Report informed Gilson that, pursuant to PSP procedures, he could request a meeting for the purpose of offering any justification or mitigating information. App. 1063. A copy of the IAD Report was attached to the Summary Report.

Trooper Gilson's pre-disciplinary conference was held on December 11, 2009. Captain Schau was unable to attend and arranged for Operations Lieutenant Bradley Allen to meet with Trooper Gilson. Prior to the conference, Captain Schau had drafted a Disciplinary Action Report (DAR), which he instructed Lieutenant Allen to issue to Gilson if Gilson failed to bring anything forward at the conference. See App. 9. Lieutenant Allen issued the DAR to Gilson following the conference on December 11, having determined that Gilson had nothing additional to offer regarding his conduct. The DAR stated, among other things, I have determined the allegation of Improper On-Duty Conduct against you is sustained. You were also found to be less than truthful during several administrative interviews conducted during this investigation. App. 1065.

Following a series of internal memoranda in which various PSP officials reviewed and analyzed the IAD Report, Sergeant Kyle Teter of the PSP Department Discipline Office issued a Notice of Disciplinary Penalty to Gilson on November 9, 2010. The Notice stated that it was the Discipline Office's recommendation that he be terminated from the PSP. The Notice further indicated that Trooper Gilson's conduct was in violation of seven State Police Field Regulations, including regulations titled Discrimination or Harassment, Sexual Impropriety, and Providing False Information. App. 1211. Thereafter, Trooper Gilson, who had until this point continued to perform his duties as usual, was suspended without pay. He initiated arbitration proceedings.

Following an arbitration hearing held on January 6, 2011, Arbitrator Steven M. Wolf issued an Opinion and Award in favor of the PSP on May 2, 2011. At the arbitration, the PSP framed the issue as whether Gilson had committed a serious act of deception during the investigation, while counsel for the Pennsylvania State Troopers Association (PSTA), appearing on behalf of Gilson, framed the issue as whether Gilson had violated the relevant Field Regulations. Under the terms of the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) governing Gilson's employment relationship with the PSP, the commission of a serious act of deception was an infraction for which the proper level of discipline is termination of employment, notwithstanding any mitigating circumstances. App. 1225.

The arbitrator agreed with the PSP's framing of the issue, noting that the serious act of deception provision is what the Commonwealth principally relies upon to support its dismissal of [Gilson]. App. 1196. The arbitrator determined that Grgic's account of the incident was credible, and that Gilson's was not. He acknowledged the PSTA's argument that the term serious act of deception was ambiguous, but determined that it was prudent to conclude that a State Trooper's conscious choice to fabricate testimony well over a dozen times during the course of an IAD investigation (most of those times being conclusive, but on occasion equivocating by not recalling) constitutes a serious act of deception.  App. 1200. Accordingly, the arbitrator concluded that the PSP's decision to terminate Gilson's employment was supported by the CBA, and he upheld the decision.

On May 4, 2011, Major Lisa Christie, Department Discipline Officer, sent a memorandum to Captain Schau and Gilson. It summarized the events which led to Gilson's dismissalwhich included a statement of the Field Regulations that Gilson was found to have violatedand indicated that the arbitration award had denied Gilson's grievance challenging the penalty of dismissal. In September 2011, this memorandum was forwarded by Debra Facciolo, the Director of the PSP's Human Resource Management Division, to the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, along with copies of the arbitrator's award and the November 2010 Notice of Disciplinary Penalty. Gilson claims that several prospective employers declined to offer him job offers after inquiring about him with the Department of Labor and Industry.

Gilson filed this action on January 6, 2012, bringing claims against the PSP, its Commissioner, Captain Schau, Sergeant Teter, Major Christie, Trooper Sibbald and Ms. Facciolo (collectively referred to herein as the PSP Defendants). As is relevant here, Gilson claimed, under 42 U.S.C.  1983, that the PSP Defendants deprived him of due process in violation of his federal constitutional rights because they failed to notify him that he had been accused of a serious act of deception, because they failed to notify him that he had been charged with sexual harassment or sexual misconduct, and because the term serious act of deception was unconstitutionally vague. He also claimed that the PSP Defendants deprived him of his protected liberty interest in his reputation by publishing the May 4, 2011 Christie memorandum to the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, which caused state employers to refuse to hire him. Finally, Gilson claimed that the PSP subjected him to gender discrimination and a hostile work environment in violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA).

On March 30, 2016, the District Court granted summary judgment in favor of the PSP Defendants on all counts. The Court concluded that Gilson had received adequate pre-deprivation and post-deprivation process, that he could not establish a claim for deprivation of his liberty interest in his reputation because the May 4, 2011 memorandum did not contain false information, that the serious act of deception language was not vague as applied, and that Gilson had failed to set forth sufficient evidence to withstand summary judgment on his claims of gender discrimination. This appeal followed.

II.

The District Court had jurisdiction pursuant to 28 U.S.C.  1331 and 1367, and we have jurisdiction pursuant to 28 U.S.C.  1291. We exercise plenary review over an order granting summary judgment, and summary judgment is proper when the movant shows that there is no genuine dispute as to any material fact and the movant is entitled to judgment as a matter of law. Fed. R. Civ. P. 56(a); Mancini v. Northampton Cty., 836 F.3d 308, 313 (3d Cir. 2016). If the non-moving party fails sufficiently to establish the existence of an essential element of its case on which it bears the burden of proof at trial, there is not a genuine dispute with respect to a material fact and thus the moving party is entitled to judgment as a matter of law. Mancini, 836 F.3d at 313-14 (internal quotation marks omitted).

III.

Pursuant to 42 U.S.C.  1983, an individual has a private right of action to redress the deprivation of a right secured by the United States Constitution, where the deprivation is committed by one acting under color of state law. See 42 U.S.C.  1983; Harvey v. Plains Twp. Police Dep't, 635 F.3d 606, 609 (3d Cir. 2011). The Due Process Clause prohibits a State from depriv[ing] any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law.  Mancini, 836 F.3d at 315 (alteration in original) (quoting U.S. Const. amend. XIV,  1).

A. Due Process Claims

In Schmidt v. Creedon, we determined that (absent extraordinary circumstances) due process entitles an individual with a protected property interest in continued employment to a pre-suspension or pre-termination hearing  albeit a brief and informal one. 639 F.3d 587, 596 (3d Cir. 2011). This is the case even when post-deprivation grievance procedures are adequate, after the fact, to provide redress for erroneously suspended employees. Id. at 597. This hearing, though necessary, need not be elaborate. Cleveland Bd. of Educ. v. Loudermill, 470 U.S. 532, 545 (1985); see Schmidt, 639 F.3d at 596. The employee is entitled only to notice of the charges against him, an explanation of the employer's evidence, and an opportunity to present his side of the story.  Schmidt, 639 F.3d at 596 (quoting Loudermill, 470 U.S. at 545).

For example, in Gniotek v. City of Philadelphia, 808 F.2d 241 (3d Cir. 1986), police officers were suspended after in-court testimony indicated that the officers had taken bribes. Prior to suspension, each officer was served with a notice, advised that he had been identified as the recipient of bribes in court testimony, and given a chance to make a statement. Id. at 242. We held that this notice comported with due process, because it was sufficient to g[i]ve [the officer] notice of the charges and nature of the evidence against him, and was of sufficient specificity to allow [the officer] the opportunity to determine what facts, if any, within his knowledge might be presented in mitigation of or in denial of the charges. Id. at 244.

Likewise, in Copeland v. Philadelphia Police Department, 840 F.2d 1139, 1142 (3d Cir. 1988), a police officer was informed that drug test results showed that he had used marijuana, and he was given an opportunity to explain the results. We determined that the officer's due process rights were not violated because the information provided was sufficient to fulfill the due process requirement that he be apprised of the substance of relevant supporting evidence against him. Id. at 1145 (quoting Brock v. Roadway Express, Inc., 481 U.S. 252, 265 (1987)). We also held that it was not violative of due process requirements for the city to inform the officer that it intended to suspend him with intent to dismiss only at the end of the meeting, or for the city to prepare formal charges only after he had been dismissed. Id. at 1145-46. We observed that the formal charge was based on the same information previously made available to [the officer], which he had the opportunity to refute, and that [t]he fact that the specific charge was drafted after he had already been terminated does not constitute a violation of [the officer's] right to procedural due process under the present circumstances. Id.

In this case, the District Court correctly concluded that Gilson's constitutional right to procedural due process was not violated because, prior to depriving Gilson of his protected property interest in continued employment, the PSP provided him with all of the pre-deprivation process that was constitutionally required: notice of the allegations against him, an explanation of the evidence, and an opportunity to present his side of the story. Loudermill, 470 U.S. at 546; Schmidt, 639 F.3d at 596. At his interviews in connection with the investigation, Gilson was informed of the allegations against him, informed about what others had said in connection with the investigation, and provided with an opportunity to respond. On December 8, 2009, Gilson received the Summary Report, which included a copy of the full IAD Report, and he had the opportunity to present his own side of the story at the pre-disciplinary conference on December 11.

Gilson claims that the process was deficient because he was not adequately informed that he was being charged with lying during the investigation or that he would be accused of having committed a serious act of deception. It is undisputed, however, that Gilson was warned that he was required to answer questions truthfully in connection with the investigation, and that he could be subject to administrative action for lying. In fact, before each of his interviews with Noce, Gilson signed a copy of this Administrative Warning and checked a box affirming that he understood it. Also, the Summary Report made clear that the PSP considered the allegation against Gilson to have merit, and, in this context, that necessarily meant that the PSP did not consider Gilson's version of events to be truthful. Gilson was on further notice that lying during the investigation could lead to his dismissal because the CBA, through a Special Order issued to all members of the PSP in 2005, specifically stated that termination was the proper discipline for lying during  administrative investigation or proceeding. App. 721. Accordingly, at the pre-disciplinary conference on December 11, 2009, Gilson was aware that the PSP considered him to have lied during the investigation, he was aware of the statements of other witnesses contradicting his story, and he was given an opportunity to explain and respond. In addition, immediately after the conference, and nearly a year before his suspension and eventual dismissal, Gilson received a copy of the DAR which stated that Gilson was also found to be less than truthful during several administrative interviews conducted during this investigation. App. 1065. The requirements of due process were met.

Gilson further claims that the process was deficient because the Summary Report did not provide notice that the PSP considered his conduct to constitute harassment and sexual impropriety. Just as in Copeland, however, those formal charges were based on the same information previously made available to [Gilson], which he had the opportunity to refute, see 840 F.2d at 1145-46, and Gilson acknowledges that he was fully informed of the relevant factual allegations. The fact that the formal charges were prepared only after the pre-deprivation conference does not signal a violation of due process. See id. The purpose of a pre-deprivation hearing is not to definitively resolve whether discipline is appropriate, or whether particular charges are appropriate given the facts, but instead is an initial check against mistaken decisions  essentially, a determination of whether there are reasonable grounds to believe that the charges against the employee are true and support the proposed action. Schmidt, 639 F.3d at 596-97 (quoting Loudermill, 470 U.S. at 545).

Because the PSP provided Gilson with the required notice and opportunity to be heard prior to his suspension, we will affirm the District Court's order rejecting Gilson's claims for deprivation of due process.

B. Liberty Interest in Reputation

Gilson contends that the PSP Defendants deprived him of his liberty interest in his reputation when they published Major Christie's May 4, 2011 memorandum to the Department of Labor and Industry, which thereafter provided it to potential employers. While reputation alone is not an interest protected by the Due Process Clause, our Court has held that an employee may pursue a due process claim for deprivation of his liberty interest in his reputation when an employer creates and disseminates a false and defamatory impression about the employee in connection with his termination[.] Hill v. Borough of Kutztown, 455 F.3d 225, 236 (3d Cir. 2006) (quotation marks omitted). To succeed on such a claim, the employee must establish a stigma to his reputation plus deprivation of some additional right or interest. Id. To show stigma, it must be alleged that the purportedly stigmatizing statement(s) (1) were made publicly, and (2) were false. Id. (internal citations omitted).

The District Court correctly concluded that Gilson could not show stigma, because the May 4, 2011 memorandum did not contain false statements. The memorandum accurately recounted the events that culminated in Gilson's ultimate dismissal, and accurately stated the Field Regulations on which Gilson's discipline was based. It did not make any representations regarding the exact findings of the arbitrator; it merely stated, correctly, that Gilson's grievance was denied following arbitration. Because the statements that Gilson contends were stigmatizing were not, in fact, false, the Court properly granted summary judgment on this claim to the PSP Defendants.

C. Vagueness

Gilson also contends that the serious act of deception provision in the CBA is void for vagueness because he did not know its meaning, was not trained on its meaning, and was not made aware that repeated denials of an accusation could constitute a serious act of deception. In a void-for-vagueness challenge, we must ensure that a statute or standard is fair in that it is not so vague that a party would not know what conduct is prohibited. Borden v. Sch. Dist. of Twp. of E. Brunswick, 523 F.3d 153, 166-67 (3d Cir. 2008). A standard is unconstitutionally vague if its terms are so vague that men of common intelligence must necessarily guess at its meaning and differ as to its application. San Filippo v. Bongiovanni, 961 F.2d 1125, 1136 (3d Cir. 1992) (quoting Connally v. Gen. Constr. Co., 269 U.S. 385, 391 (1926)). This inquiry is conducted on a case-by-case basis, and the party opposing the statute or standard must show that it is vague as applied to him. Borden, 523 F.3d at 167.

In this case, the District Court properly concluded that the serious act of deception language was not unconstitutionally vague as applied to Gilson. Although Gilson correctly points out that reasonable minds could differ as to the meaning of serious, the provision is not so vague that a party would not know what conduct was prohibited. See id. at 166-67. The relevant paragraph of the CBA made clear that the provision is applicable to conduct that takes place during a[n]  administrative investigation when under a specific, official obligation to be truthful and when the conduct involves intentional [ ] lying. App. 1225. This was sufficient to inform Gilson that intentionally (and repeatedly) lying, during interviews that were part of his official administrative investigation, was prohibited and could result in his dismissal without consideration of mitigating circumstances, as indicated in the CBA.

D. Discrimination Claims

Gilson argues that he was targeted for discrimination based on his gender, in violation of Title VII and the PHRA. Title VII makes it an unlawful employment practice for an employer  to discriminate against any individual  , because of such individual's race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.  Connelly v. Lane Constr. Corp., 809 F.3d 780, 787 (3d Cir. 2016) (quoting 42 U.S.C.  2000e2(a)(1)). We interpret claims under the PHRA coextensively with Title VII claims. Atkinson v. Lafayette Coll., 460 F.3d 447, 454 n.6 (3d Cir. 2006).

Here, even assuming that Gilson could establish a prima facie case of gender discrimination (an issue seriously in doubt), the District Court properly granted summary judgment in favor of the PSP Defendants because the record is devoid of any evidence from which a factfinder could conclude that the PSP's legitimate, nondiscriminatory reason for Gilson's termination was pretext for gender discrimination. See Fuentes v. Perskie, 32 F.3d 759, 764 (3d Cir. 1994). Likewise, even if Gilson could show that he suffered intentional discrimination because of his sex, his hostile work environment claim fails because, as the District Court recognized, he failed to present sufficient evidence from which a factfinder could conclude that he suffered from discrimination that was severe or pervasive. See Mandel v. M & Q Packaging Corp., 706 F.3d 157, 167 (3d Cir. 2013).

IV.

We will affirm the order of the District Court granting summary judgment in favor of the PSP Defendants.

FOOTNOTES

. Specifically, the CBA stated: The commission of a serious act of deception during a criminal, civil or administrative investigation or proceeding, when under a specific, official obligation to be truthful, involving intentional (1) lying; (2) fabrication; (3) misleading acts or words; (4) civil or criminal fraud; or (5) perjury. App. 1225.

. Gilson argues that the lack of specificity with respect to explicit allegations of lying or a serious act of deception, did not allow [him] the opportunity to determine what facts, if any, within his knowledge might be presented in mitigation of or in denial of the charges. See Blue Br. at 34 (internal quotation marks omitted). It is unclear, however, what other facts Gilson could have presented in mitigation of or in denial of the charge of lying, that he did not already have the opportunity and incentive to bring forward at the pre-disciplinary conference. At that time, he had sufficient notice and opportunity to present whatever facts and evidence he had to support his version of events of August 17 (i.e., to prove that he was not lying).

. Gilson does not argue that the post-deprivation grievance and arbitration procedures were insufficient to protect his right to due process, nor does he argue that they were not followed. Such a claim would, in any event, be unavailing. See Dykes v. Se. Pa. Transp. Auth., 68 F.3d 1564, 1565 (3d Cir. 1995). Notably, Gilson failed to avail himself of the opportunity to appeal the arbitrator's decision in state court, see Pa. State Police v. Pa. State Troopers Ass'n, 656 A.2d 83, 89-90 (Pa. 1995) (describing the standard of review for grievance arbitration awards), and we have held that [i]n order to state a claim for failure to provide due process, a plaintiff must have taken advantage of the processes that are available to him or her, unless those processes are unavailable or patently inadequate. Alvin v. Suzuki, 227 F.3d 107, 116 (3d Cir. 2000).

SMITH, Chief Judge.
United States Court of Appeals, Third Circuit. JOSE BELAMINO MARADIAGA, Petitioner v. ATTORNEY GENERAL OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, Respondent No. 15-3308 Decided: January 24, 2017

Before: MCKEE, Chief Judge,*FISHER, and GREENAWAY, JR., Circuit Judges.

OPINION**

Petitioner Jose Belamino Maradiaga (Maradiaga) petitions for review of the Board of Immigration Appeals' (BIA) decision that he is ineligible for cancellation of removal. We conclude that Maradiaga's prior state-court conviction was for a crime involving moral turpitude, and that under 18 U.S.C.  1229b(b)(1) he is ineligible for cancellation of removal. We will therefore deny his petition.

I. Background

Maradiaga, a native and citizen of Honduras, entered the United States in March 1999 as a nonimmigrant. In September 2002, he pled guilty to misdemeanor third-degree assault, pursuant to New York Penal Law  120.00(1). Maradiaga received three years of probation.

In October 2009, the Department of Homeland Security initiated removal proceedings against Maradiaga, charging him with removability as a nonimmigrant present in the United States beyond a temporary authorized period. In June 2013, Maradiaga appeared before an immigration judge (IJ) and conceded removability. The IJ denied Maradiaga's request for cancellation of removal, concluding that Maradiaga's New York conviction was for a crime involving moral turpitude. The BIA remanded the matter to determine whether the charge of removal was appropriate.

On remand, DHS asserted a substitute charge of removal, charging Maradiaga removable as a noncitizen present in the United States without being admitted or paroled. Maradiaga conceded the substitute charge of removal. The IJ again denied Maradiaga's request for cancellation of removal on the basis of his New York conviction.

Maradiaga filed an appeal, which the BIA dismissed. Maradiaga then filed a timely petition for review.

II. Jurisdiction and Standard of Review

We have jurisdiction to review questions of law in petitions for review from the BIA. 8 U.S.C.  1252(a)(2)(D). We review the administrative record on which the final removal order is based. Li Hua Yuan v. Att'y Gen., 642 F.3d 420, 425 (3d Cir. 2011) (quoting Zhang v. Gonzales, 405 F.3d 150, 155 (3d Cir. 2005)). [T]hat means [we review] only the BIA's decision unless the BIA's decision specifically references the IJ's decision. Id.

We review legal determinations by the BIA de novo, subject to established principles of deference. Wang v. Ashcroft, 368 F.3d 347, 349 (3d Cir. 2004). We defer to the BIA's definition of moral turpitude, as well as the BIA's determination that a certain crime involves moral turpitude. Mehboob v. Att'y Gen., 549 F.3d 272, 275 (3d Cir. 2008) (footnote omitted) (citations omitted) (internal quotation marks omitted) (citing Knapik v. Ashcroft, 384 F.3d 84, 87 & n.3 (3d Cir. 2004)). We do not defer, however, to the BIA's determination of what the elements are of a particular criminal statute deemed to implicate moral turpitude. See Knapik, 384 F.3d at 88.

III. Analysis

Maradiaga first contends that he is eligible for cancellation of removal under 8 U.S.C.  1229b(b)(1)(C) because his 2002 New York conviction was not for a crime involving moral turpitude. He alternatively argues that he is eligible for cancellation of removal because of the petty-offense exception in 8 U.S.C.  1182(a)(2)(A)(ii)(II). We conclude that Maradiaga's New York conviction is for a crime involving moral turpitude, and that he is ineligible for cancellation of removal notwithstanding the petty-offense exception.

A. Maradiaga was convicted of a crime involving moral turpitude

The cancellation of removal statute, 8 U.S.C.  1229b(b)(1)(C), states in relevant part:

The Attorney General may cancel removal of, and adjust to the status of an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence, an alien who is inadmissible or deportable from the United States if the alien

 (C) has not been convicted of an offense under section 1182(a)(2), 1227(a)(2), or 1227(a)(3) of this title.

Both sections 1182(a)(2) and 1227(a)(2) include offenses regarding any noncitizen who is convicted of a crime involving moral turpitude. 8 U.S.C.  1182 (a)(2)(A)(i)(I); id.  1227(a)(2)(A)(i)(I). Crimes involving moral turpitude contain conduct that is inherently base, vile, or depraved. Jean-Louis v. Att'y Gen., 582 F.3d 462, 465 (3d Cir. 2009) (quoting Knapik, 384 F.3d at 89). [M]alicious intent is  the essence of moral turpitude. Id. at 469 (quoting Matter of Flores, 17 I. & N. Dec. 225, 227 (BIA 1980)).

In determining whether a state law conviction is for a crime involving moral turpitude we[ ] have historically applied a categorical approach, focusing on the underlying criminal statute rather than the alien's specific act.  Id. at 465 (quoting Knapik, 384 F.3d at 88) (some internal quotations marks omitted). Under the categorical approach, we read the applicable statute to ascertain the least culpable conduct necessary to sustain a conviction under the statute. Partyka v. Att'y Gen., 417 F.3d 408, 411 (3d Cir. 2005).

If a statute covers both turpitudinous and non-turpitudinous acts, we employ the modified categorical approach. Id. Under this approach, we look to the record of conviction to determine whether the alien was convicted under that part of the statute defining a crime involving moral turpitude. Id. In such a case, we examin[e] the record of conviction for the narrow purpose of determining the specific subpart under which the defendant was convicted. Jean-Louis, 582 F.3d at 466 (citing Singh v. Ashcroft, 383 F.3d 144, 162 (3d Cir. 2004)).

Maradiaga was convicted under  120.00 of the New York Penal Law, which states:

A person is guilty of assault in the third degree when:

1. With intent to cause physical injury to another person, he causes such injury to such person or to a third person; or

2. He recklessly causes physical injury to another person; or

3. With criminal negligence, he causes physical injury to another person by means of a deadly weapon or a dangerous instrument.

N.Y. Penal Law  120.00.

Our starting point is whether  120.00 is divisiblethat is, whether it includes both crimes that are morally turpitudinous and crimes that are not. Both parties agree that the statute is divisible because it criminalizes conduct that is not turpitudinous. Thus, we apply the modified categorical approach, turning our focus to the specific subpart under which the defendant was convicted, or  120.00(1). Jean-Louis, 582 F.3d at 466.

The BIA concluded that Maradiaga's conviction under New York Penal Law  120.00(1) was a categorical crime involving moral turpitude. The BIA noted that it had previously held, in Matter of Solon, 24 I. & N. Dec. 239 (BIA 2007), that  120.00(1) was a categorical crime involving moral turpitude given the specific intent element and the requirement of actual physical injury, which includes impairment of physical condition or substantial pain.  App. vol. I at 4.

Maradiaga argues on appeal that this conclusion was in error because although  120.00(1) identifies intentional conduct with physical injury, it does not require specific intent to injure. He does not attempt to distinguish his case from Matter of Solon, rather he argues that Solon is wrongly decided because it interprets  120.00(1) as having a specific intent requirement.

We begin by examining the elements of the New York criminal statute at issue. [I]n in determining what the elements are of a particular criminal statute deemed to implicate moral turpitude, we do not defer to the BIA. Knapik, 384 F.3d at 88. Thus, we undertake that inquiry here.

Section 120.00(1) criminalizes actions that: [w]ith intent to cause physical injury to another person  cause[ ] such injury. N.Y. Penal Law  120.00(1). Thus, the elements of the offense consist of: (1) specific intent to cause, (2) physical injury, and (3) that the intended physical injury actually occurs. See People v. Juarez, 827 N.Y.S.2d 564, 567 (N.Y. Cty. Ct. 2006) (In order to convict a defendant of the misdemeanor of Assault in the Third Degree, the People must prove beyond a reasonable doubt the specific intent of the defendant to cause physical injury, and the causing  of such injury.). Further, New York law makes clear that the physical injury element requires substantial harm. See New York Penal Law  10.00 (defining physical injury as impairment of physical condition or substantial pain).

The BIA has determined that  120.00(1) is a crime involving moral turpitude; we defer to this determination so long as it is reasonable. Knapik, 384 F.3d at 87 & n.3. We conclude that it is a reasonable determination. The provision's specific intent requirement and its requirement that non-trivial injury occur meet the criteria the BIA has established for crimes involving moral turpitude. See Matter of Flores, 17 I. & N. Dec. at 227 ([M]alicious intent is  the essence of moral turpitude.); Solon, 24 I. & N. Dec. at 241 ([D]e minimis conduct or harm  is not ordinarily considered to be inherently vile, depraved, or morally reprehensible.).

Maradiaga responds that  120.00(1) is not a crime involving moral turpitude because it only requires general intent and does not involve serious injury, and that [i]t is more akin to the simple assault statutes that have been held not to be [crimes involving moral turpitude]. Pet'r's Br. at 13. Maradiaga provides no authority or hypotheticals to support his view that non-turpitudinous conduct could be criminalized under  120.00(1). Further, New York cases interpreting the statute contradict his assertion. See, e.g., People v. Henderson, 708 N.E.2d 165, 166 (N.Y. 1999) ([P]etty slaps, shoves, kicks and the like delivered out of hostility, meanness and similar motives[ ] are not within the definition of the statute. (citation omitted) (internal quotation marks omitted)); People v. Martini, 309 N.Y.S.2d 831, 833 (N.Y. Crim. Ct. 1970) (explaining that under New York Penal Law, minor assaultive conduct or petty batteries, i.e. so-called technical assaults, are now covered by the offense of harassment, as opposed to the offense of third-degree assault).

In conclusion, we find the BIA's determination reasonable. We defer to its conclusion that  120.00(1) is a crime of moral turpitude.

B. Maradiaga is ineligible for cancellation of removal notwithstanding  1182(a)(2)'s petty-offense exception

Maradiaga alternatively argues that, even if  120.00(1) is categorically a crime involving moral turpitude, he is still eligible for cancellation of removal because he was not convicted of an offense within the meaning of  1229b(b)(1)(C).

To reiterate,  1229b makes ineligible for cancellation of removal any noncitizen that has been convicted of an offense under section 1182(a)(2), 1227(a)(2), or 1227(a)(3).  1229b(b)(1)(C) (emphasis added). The relevant offense in  1182(a)(2) is a crime involving moral turpitude. However, under  1182(a)(2) an offense will not be considered a crime involving moral turpitude if it meets the petty-offense exception. Id.  1182(a)(2)(A)(ii)(II). A petty offense is one for which (1) the maximum penalty possible does not exceed imprisonment for one year and (2) the noncitizen was not sentenced to a term of imprisonment in excess of 6 months. Id.

Maradiaga argues, correctly, that he was not convicted of an offense under  1182(a)(2) because his offense fits the definition of a petty offensethe maximum penalty for a  120.00(1) conviction is one year of imprisonment, and Maradiaga received three years' probation.

His second and related charge is that he was not convicted of an offense under  1227(a)(2) because  1227 applies to deportability not inadmissibility. That is, even though  1227(a)(2) includes crimes involving moral turpitude, and does not include  1182(a)(2)'s petty-offense exception, Maradiaga believes that because  1227(a)(2)'s immigration requirements do not apply to him, he was not convicted of an offense under that statute.

The government argues that  1229b(b)(1)(C) cross references only the offenses in the listed sections, not the entirety of those sections, and that as long as Maradiaga was convicted of an offense under any of the statutes listed 1182(a)(2),  1227(a)(2), or  1227(a)(3)he is ineligible for cancellation.

The BIA shares the government's view. Relying on its reasoning in Matter of Cortez, 25 I. & N. Dec. 301 (BIA 2010), in which it held that offenses in  1229b(b)(1)(C) refers only to language specifically pertaining to the criminal offense in the relevant statutes and not the immigration consequences therein, the BIA concluded that Maradiaga was ineligible for cancellation of removal. Maradiaga recognizes that Cortez contradicts his argument, but argues that it was wrongly decided.

This dispute turns on the meaning of  1229b(b)(1)(C). Thus, we apply the analysis set forth in Chevron, U.S.A., Inc. v. Natural Resources Defense Council, Inc., 467 U.S. 837, 84245 (1984). Under Chevron, we must first consider whether Congress has directly spoken to the precise question at issue. 467 U.S. at 842. If Congress has done so, the inquiry is at an end; the court must give effect to the unambiguously expressed intent of Congress.  FDA v. Brown & Williamson Tobacco Corp., 529 U.S. 120, 132 (2000) (quoting Chevron, 467 U.S. at 843). If we conclude that Congress has not addressed the issue, that is, if the statute is ambiguous, we must respect the agency's construction of the statute so long as it is permissible. Id. (citing INS v. Aguirre-Aguirre, 526 U.S. 415, 424 (1999)).

Maradiaga argues, through implication, that  1229b(b)(1)(C) is ambiguous because he does not contend that the plain meaning of the statute supports his view and instead advances canons of construction generally applied when statutory language is unclear. We assume arguendo that  1229b(b)(1)(C) is ambiguous and thus per Chevron, we consider whether the agency's interpretation of the statute is reasonable.

Thus, per Chevron, we consider whether the agency's interpretation of the statute is reasonable. We conclude that it is. In Matter of Cortez, the BIA explained that only language specifically pertaining to the criminal offense is considered in determining whether a noncitizen is eligible for cancellation of removal. Matter of Cortez, 25 I. & N. Dec. at 307. The BIA supported this interpretation by reference to the language and design of the statute as a whole. Id. at 308 (quoting K Mart Corp. v. Cartier, Inc., 486 U.S. 281, 291 (1988)). Specifically, because in other provisions of  1229b Congress explicitly distinguishes between noncitizens rendered inadmissible under  1182(a)(2) and those rendered removable under  1227, the BIA reasoned that, had Congress intended to make such a distinction in  1229b(b)(1)(C), it would have done so. The BIA further explained that its interpretation did not depart from, and was supported by, its previous holdings. Id. at 30810.

The BIA's interpretation also accords with those of our sister circuits. See Gonzalez-Gonzalez v. Ashcroft, 390 F.3d 649, 652 (9th Cir. 2004) (The plain language of  1229b indicates that it should be read to cross-reference a list of offenses in three statutes, rather than the statutes as a whole.); Nino v. Holder, 690 F.3d 691, 69798 (5th Cir. 2012) (Section 1229b(b)(1)(C), without ambiguity, references Section 1227(a)(2) in order to identify the kinds of offenses that will make an alien ineligible for cancellation of removal.).

The agency's interpretation was not arbitrary, capricious, or clearly contrary to the statute. Knapik, 384 F.3d at 87 (quoting Cabral v. INS, 15 F.3d 193, 195 (1st Cir. 1994)). In light of these circuit opinions and the BIA's reasoned consideration of the issue, we defer to the BIA's determination that  1229b(b)(1)(C) refers only to the criminal offenses of the relevant statutes, and not the immigration consequences therein.

Therefore, to determine whether Maradiaga is ineligible for cancellation of removal under  1229b(b)(1)(C), we look to whether Maradiaga was convicted of a crime involving moral turpitude under any of the statutes listed in the provision. While Maradiaga could be eligible for the petty-offense exception of  1182(a)(2), his conviction falls within the meaning of  1227(a)(2). He was thus convicted of an offense listed in  1227(a)(2) and is ineligible for cancellation of removal pursuant to  1229b.2 Cf. Gonzalez-Gonzalez, 390 F.3d at 65253 (holding that an unadmitted noncitizen who was convicted of a crime of domestic violencea conviction that renders an admitted noncitizen deportable under  1227(a)(2) but that does not render an unadmitted noncitizen inadmissible under  1182(a)(2)was ineligible for cancellation of removal because [t]he plain language of  1229b indicates that it should be read to cross-reference a list of offenses in three statutes, rather than the statutes as a whole).

IV. Conclusion

For the foregoing reasons, we will deny Maradiaga's petition for review.

FOOTNOTES

. We conclude that the agency's interpretation is reasonable notwithstanding Maradiaga's argument that the rule of lenity requires us to resolve any lack of clarity in his favor. Some courts have used the rule of lenity to support a conclusion that the BIA's interpretation of a statute is unreasonable. See Vargas v. INS, 938 F.2d 358, 363 (2d Cir. 1991) (declining to defer to the BIA because its interpretation runs afoul of the rule that lingering ambiguities in deportation statutes must be construed in favor of the alien (internal quotation marks omitted)). Here, given the BIA's reasoned and detailed analysis, and Maradiaga's failure to advance any non-conclusory assertions challenging the BIA's view, we cannot conclude that the BIA's interpretation is unreasonable even though the rule of lenity might support an interpretation favorable to Maradiaga. 2 Maradiaga also argues that he was not convicted of an offense under  1227(a)(2) because  1227(a)(2) requires that the crime be committed within five years of admission and he was never admitted. This argument also fails. As explained above, we defer to the BIA's conclusion that the term offenses in  1229b(b)(1)(C) refers only to the criminal offenses listed in the statutes and does not encompass language referring to immigration consequences. That the crime be committed within five years of admission is an immigration consequence, and as such does not inform our analysis. Cf. Matter of Cortez, 25 I. & N. Dec. 301, 307 (BIA 2010) (noting that the statutory language of sections [1182(a)(2), 1227(a)(2), and 1227(a)(3) ] pertaining only to aspects of immigration law, such as the requirement that the alien's crime be committed within five years  after the date of admission, is not considered).

GREENAWAY, JR., Circuit Judge:
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United States Court of Appeals, Sixth Circuit. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, Plaintiff-Appellee, v. JERMAINE MORRISON, Defendant-Appellant. Case No. 16-5452 Decided: January 25, 2017

BEFORE: COLE, Chief Judge; COOK and WHITE, Circuit Judges.

Jermaine Morrison pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C.  922(g). In a written plea agreement, Morrison waived his right to appeal any sentence imposed by the Court  so long as it is within the applicable guideline range, or lower, whatever that guideline range might be. Morrison appealed, arguing that a change in the law entitles him to a reduced sentence and renders his appeal waiver unenforceable. Because we enforce the waiver as written, we dismiss Morrison's appeal.

I.

At sentencing, the prosecutor argued that Morrison's prior conviction for Tennessee aggravated burglary qualified as a crime of violence, setting his applicable guideline range at 77 to 96 months' imprisonment. Although Morrison opposed the government's classification, his objection never stood a chance. At the time the district court sentenced Morrison, the Sentencing Guidelines defined crime of violence to include burglary of a dwelling. USSG  2K2.1 & comment. (n.1), 4B1.2(a) (2015). Additionally, in United States v. Ozier, this court held that although Tennessee's aggravated-burglary statute criminalizes more conduct than generic burglary under the Guidelines, the statute is divisiblei.e., lists multiple offenses in the alternative. 796 F.3d 597, 60003 (6th Cir. 2015). That being so, we permitted courts to review a limited class of documents  to determine which alternative formed the basis of the defendant's prior conviction. Id. at 600 (omission in original) (quoting Descamps v. United States, 133 S. Ct. 2276, 2281 (2013)), abrogated by Mathis v. United States, 136 S. Ct. 2243 (2016). Bound by Ozier and the version of the Guidelines in effect at the time of sentencing, the district court examined Morrison's plea colloquy from his earlier conviction and, after determining that he had burglarized a dwelling, overruled Morrison's objection and imposed a 96-month sentence.

Morrison appealed. While his appeal was pending, two legal developments cast doubt on Tennessee aggravated burglary's classification as a crime of violence. First, the Supreme Court in Mathis v. United States clarified what makes a statute divisible, abrogating Ozier. See Mathis, 136 S. Ct. at 2251 & n.1. Second, we granted rehearing en banc to decide whether Tennessee's aggravated-burglary statute criminalizes more conduct than generic burglary under the Armed Career Criminal Act, and if so, whether it is divisible in light of Mathis. United States v. Stitt, 646 F. App'x 454 (6th Cir. 2016) (Mem.). Stitt is currently pending before the court.

II.

On appeal, Morrison argues that Tennessee aggravated burglary no longer qualifies as a crime of violence under the Guidelines and asks to be resentenced. But before addressing the merits, we must determine whether Morrison's appeal waiver forecloses our consideration of his request. It does.

We will enforce an appeal waiver included in a plea agreement when the agreement is made knowingly and voluntarily. United States v. Toth, 668 F.3d 374, 378 (6th Cir. 2012) (citing United States v. Fleming, 239 F.3d 761, 764 (6th Cir. 2001)). Morrison may challenge his waiver of appeal rights only on the grounds that it was not knowing and voluntary, was not taken in compliance with Fed. R. Crim. P. 11, or was the product of ineffective assistance of counsel. United States v. Detloff, 794 F.3d 588, 592 (6th Cir. 2015) (quoting United States v. Atkinson, 354 F. App'x 250, 252 (6th Cir. 2009)).

Here, Morrison makes no effort to undermine the voluntariness of his plea agreement, nor does he assert a violation of Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 11. Our independent review of Morrison's plea hearing confirms that he voluntarily waived his appellate rights. The district court informed Morrison that he was giving up his right to appeal any sentence within the guideline range, and explained the few narrow exceptions to that waiver (ineffective-assistance-of-counsel or prosecutorial-misconduct claims). When asked if he understood, Morrison said Yes, sir.

Morrison instead relies on the change wrought by Mathis to maintain that he could not knowingly waive his right to appeal. It is well settled, however, that a change in law cannot render a plea agreement unknowing. See Brady v. United States, 397 U.S. 742, 757 (1970); United States v. Bradley, 400 F.3d 459, 463 (6th Cir. 2005) ([W]here developments in the law later expand a right that a defendant has waived in a plea agreement, the change in law does not suddenly make the plea involuntary or unknowing or otherwise undo its binding nature.). This rule reflects the sound judgment that a plea agreement, like any other contract, allocates risk. Bradley, 400 F.3d at 464. By waiving the right to appeal, a defendant assumes the risk that a shift in the legal landscape may engender buyer's remorse. Id.; see also United States v. Morgan, 406 F.3d 135, 137 (2d Cir. 2005) (The possibility of a favorable change in the law after a plea is simply one of the risks that accompanies pleas and plea agreements.).

Accordingly, courts will enforce appeal waivers even when a legal development makes it likely that the defendant would receive a lower sentence were the defendant resentenced under the new law, and even when the legal change affects constitutional rights. For example, when the Sentencing Commission lowered the base offense levels for many drug offenses in 2008 and 2014, defendants who waived their right to appeal could not benefit from the change. See, e.g., United States v. Ellison, No. 16-5085, 2016 WL 6818855, at *2 (6th Cir. Nov. 18, 2016) (per curiam); United States v. Marquez, 570 F. App'x 816, 81819 (10th Cir. 2014) (per curiam); United States v. Polly, 630 F.3d 991, 1002 (10th Cir. 2011). Similarly, after the Supreme Court voided for vagueness the residual clause in the ACCA's definition of violent felony, see Johnson v. United States, 135 S. Ct. 2551, 2557 (2015), courts routinely enforced the appeal waivers of prisoners who stood to benefit. See, e.g., Sanford v. United States, 841 F.3d 578, 57980 (2d Cir. 2016) (per curiam); In re Garner, No. 16-1655, 2016 WL 6471761, at *2 (6th Cir. Nov. 2, 2016); United States v. Hurtado, No. 16-2021, 2016 WL 3410270, at *1 (10th Cir. June 17, 2016) (per curiam); United States v. Bey, 825 F.3d 75, 83 (1st Cir. 2016); United States v. Blackwell, 651 F. App'x 8, 10 (2d Cir. 2016) (per curiam); United States v. Ford, 641 F. App'x 650, 651 (8th Cir. 2016) (per curiam). Although Morrison understandably regrets waiving his appellate rights in light of Mathis and Stitt, his lack of clairvoyance cannot undo [that] decision. In re Garner, 2016 WL 6471761, at *2.

In an effort to circumvent his appeal waiver's preclusive effect, Morrison invokes United States v. McBride, 826 F.3d 293 (6th Cir. 2016). In McBride, the defendant's plea agreement included an understanding that he would be sentenced as a career offender because he ha[d] at least two prior crime of violence convictions. Id. at 294 (alteration in original). McBride appealed his sentence following Johnson, arguing that his prior offense for bank robbery no longer qualified as a crime of violence. Id. at 295. Although we recognized that McBride's consent to his career-offender designation would normally waive his right to challenge it on appeal, we nonetheless reviewed for plain error, reasoning that McBride could not have intentionally relinquished a claim based on Johnson[.] Id.

But the McBride plea agreement, unlike the one here, did not include an appeal waiver; McBride simply agreed that he qualified as a career offender. Looking past the waiver-inducing effect of such a concession makes sense in those circumstancesafter all, McBride could not have intentionally relinquished a Johnson-based challenge to his career-offender designation considering [Johnson] was decided after [he was] sentenced. United States v. Stines, 313 F.3d 912, 917 (6th Cir. 2002); see also McBride, 826 F.3d at 295. Morrison, on the other hand, could and did intentionally relinquish his right to appeal. In doing so, he assumed the risk that he would be denied the benefit of future legal developments. See, e.g., In re Garner, 2016 WL 6471761, at *2.

Moreover, even if the district court erred in finding that Tennessee aggravated burglary qualified as a crime of violence, its conclusion was harmless and do[es] not require a remand for re-sentencing. United States v. Ward, 506 F.3d 468, 476 (6th Cir. 2007). If the record shows that the district court would have imposed its sentence regardless of the Guidelines range, then an error in calculating the Guidelines range is harmless. Molina-Martinez v. United States, 136 S. Ct. 1338, 1346 (2016). Here, in fixing Morrison's sentence at 96 months confinement, the top of Morrison's Guidelines range, the district court emphasized that the offense was extremely dangerous and egregious and that domestic violence is prevalent throughout Morrison's criminal history. The district court stated that had it determined that aggravated burglary was not a crime of violence, it would have varied upward and ended up with the same Guidelines range. Since the district court would have sentenced Morrison to 96 months without regard to whether his conviction for Tennessee aggravated burglary qualifies as a crime of violence, the alleged error in calculating the Guidelines range would not entitle Morrison to resentencing in any event.

In short, McBride does not disturb the general rule that appeal waivers remain enforceable despite changes in the law. In re Garner, 2016 WL 6471761, at *2 (discussing McBride and enforcing an appeal waiver akin to Morrison's despite a change in law). We discern no reason to depart from that rule.

We accordingly dismiss Morrison's appeal.

FOOTNOTES

. The Sentencing Commission recently removed burglary of a dwelling from the list of enumerated crimes of violence, but that change did not take effect until August 1, 2016four months after the district court imposed its sentence. 81 Fed. Reg. 4741, 4742 (2016).

. The district court explained:At the outset I will say this, I was considering an upward departure and/or an upward variance. That's because I was facing two different guideline ranges. I've now made the decision that the 77 to 96 months is the appropriate sentence given the record before me. And so I'm not going to make an upward departure or variance in that regard.Had I ruled the other way on the aggravated burglary, and we had the lower sentencing range, I would have varied upward or taken advantage of 5K2.6 and the use of a firearm, which in this court's mind is not adequately taken into account with the cross-reference to reckless endangerment. And I would have made an upward variance and/or a departure and the type of sentence that we're talking about and the range would come  have come back into play. So I just want that to be clear for the record.R. 50, PID 147.

COOK, Circuit Judge.
United States Court of Appeals, Sixth Circuit. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, Plaintiff-Appellee, v. MARIO SEYMOUR, Defendant-Appellant. No. 16-5205 Decided: January 26, 2017

Before: GUY, CLAY, GRIFFIN, Circuit Judges

Defendant, Mario Seymour, appeals the district court's order denying his motion for reduction of sentence. We affirm.

I.

Defendant pleaded guilty to conspiring to manufacture and distribute cocaine base, cocaine, and marijuana in violation of 21 U.S.C.  841(a)(1), 846. The plea agreement called for a sentence of 151 months. Defendant's presentence report (PSR) calculated his offense level as 36 and his criminal history category as II, for a guidelines range of 210 to 262 months. The parties stipulated an offense level of 32. The district court utiliz[ed] the sentencing guidelines as advisory to arrive at an offense level of 34 and a guidelines range of 168 to 210 months. The district court accepted the plea agreement, finding that it provide[d] a[n] appropriate sentence, and sentenced defendant to 151 months' imprisonment.

The United States Sentencing Commission retroactively amended U.S.S.G.  2D1.1(c), which specifies offense levels for drug quantities, in November 2014. U.S. Sentencing Guidelines Manual, Supplement to Appendix C, Amendment 782 (2014). Defendant moved to reduce his sentence under 18 U.S.C.  3582(c) in light of Amendment 782. The district court denied the motion. It wrote that under the revised guidelines, defendant's range would be 168 to 210 months  lower [sic  higher] than the imposed sentence of 151 months  and thus not  appropriate pursuant to U.S.S.G.  1B1.10(b)(2)(A) because the term of imprisonment cannot be less than the minimum of the amended guideline range without a reduction pursuant to  5K1.1[.] Defendant appealed.

II.

Although we generally review a district court's decision to modify a sentence under  3582 for an abuse of discretion, where the district court finds a defendant ineligible for a reduction under  3582, we review that determination de novo. United States v. Valentine, 694 F.3d 665, 669 (6th Cir. 2012).

III.

A district court may modify an imposed term of imprisonment where it sentenced a defendant based on a sentencing range the Sentencing Commission subsequently lowered. 18 U.S.C.  3582(c)(2). The district court may reduce the sentence, after considering the applicable 18 U.S.C.  3553 factors, only if such a reduction is consistent with applicable policy statements issued by the Sentencing Commission. Id. In considering a reduction, the district court follows Dillon's two-step inquiry: A court must first determine that a reduction is consistent with [U.S.S.G.]  1B1.10 before it may consider whether the authorized reduction is warranted, either in whole or in part, according to the factors set forth in  3553(a). Dillon v. United States, 560 U.S. 817, 826 (2010); accord Valentine, 694 F.3d at 669.

The Supreme Court has ruled  albeit fractiously  that district courts may reduce at least some sentences imposed pursuant to plea agreements. Freeman v. United States, 564 U.S. 522, 530 (2011). The plurality opinion held that an agreed-upon sentence in a plea agreement does not discharge the district court's independent obligation to exercise its discretion to find that such sentence is an appropriate sentence within the applicable guideline range or, if not, that the sentence departs from the applicable guideline range for justifiable reasons. Id. at 529. Accordingly, the plurality held, any plea agreement sentence a district court accepts is inherently based on the Guidelines and may be reduced under  3582. Id. at 529-30; see also U.S.S.G.  6B1.2(c) (a district court may accept a plea agreement sentence only if it is within the guideline range or justifiably outside it).

Justice Sotomayor's concurrence, however, provid[es] the framework that governs the [ 3582 eligibility] inquiry in this circuit. United States v. McNeese, 819 F.3d 922, 927 (6th Cir. 2016). This approach looks solely to the terms of the plea agreement, and permits a  3582 reduction only where the agreement call[s] for the defendant to be sentenced within a particular Guidelines sentencing range or provide[s] for a specific term of imprisonment  [and] make[s] clear that the basis for the specified term is a Guidelines sentencing range applicable to the offense to which the defendant pleaded guilty. Freeman, 564 U.S. at 538-39 (Sotomayor, J., concurring).

Applying this approach, we have unequivocally held that [a] defendant's sentence  for purposes of [ 3582(c)(2)]  is based on a guideline range only when that guideline range is explicitly referenced in a plea agreement. McNeese, 819 F.3d at 927 (internal quotations omitted). Defendant's plea agreement makes no reference to his guideline range or any aspect of the sentencing guidelines other than a brief stipulation for drug quantity. This stipulated gross base offense level of 32 is not an explicit reference to the guideline range or the sentencing guidelines. Indeed, the stipulated offense level is different from defendant's calculated Total Offense Level of 36. And, unlike in Freeman, defendant here did not agree[ ] to have his sentence determined pursuant to the Sentencing Guidelines. Freeman, 564 U.S. at 542 (Sotomayor, J., concurring). Far from being based on a guideline range, the plea agreement merely states, The parties agree that an appropriate sentence in th[is] case is 151 months.

We cannot accept defendant's argument that a guideline range led directly to [his plea agreement] sentence without an explicit reference to a guideline range in the plea agreement. To do so would require us to engage in a free-ranging search through the parties' negotiating history in search of a Guidelines sentencing range that might have been relevant, in direct contravention of McNeese and Freeman. McNeese, 819 F.3d at 928 (quoting Freeman, 564 U.S. at 538 (Sotomayor, J., concurring)).

Because the plea agreement did not base defendant's sentence on a guideline range, the district court lacked authority to modify it. See 18 U.S.C.  3582(c)(2). The district court therefore properly denied defendant's motion for reduction of sentence.

AFFIRMED.

RALPH B. GUY, JR., Circuit Judge.
HA NOI  The wood processing industry faces a lot of difficulties in the future following the governments order close natural forest gates from January 1.

This was stated by Bui Chinh Nghia, deputy head of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Developments (MARD) Forestry Department.

Nghia said this would result in a cut of some 40,000 cu.m. of raw material this year.

Ensuring timber supply for domestic manufacturing is a problem in Viet Nam as a large amount of raw timber is exported despite many domestic producers lacking raw material.

To have enough material for processing and exports, many businesses have proposed that the government prohibit the export of raw material to other countries.

If the quantity of exported wood is retained in the country, it would help local businesses take the initiative in signing orders with their partners in Europe and the United States.

Sharing his opinion on this proposal, Huynh Kim Bau, assistant to the director of Saigon Furniture Co. Ltd, said the government should levy a tariff of 30-35 per cent on raw timber exports, the same level as applied by some regional countries, such as Cambodia and Thailand, to lower exports. In addition, enterprises need to plant high-quality tree species that grow in a short period of time to meet the industrys increasing demand.

Huynh Van Hanh, deputy chairman of the Handicraft and Wood Industry Association of HCM City, said small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) needed to co-operate with each other if they wanted to compete with foreign firms globally.

The association should make decisions based on three criteria -- they are in real need of co-operation with other, they should trust their partners, and their rights and interests should be based on fairness as the work will be divided equally based on production and supply for each participant.

As for those enterprises which are capable of expanding their business, they should invest in advanced technology to raise capacity and quality to overcome difficulties and access large orders.

Hanh said Viet Nam had more than 4,000 timber processing and export businesses but only seven per cent of them were large and could easily access huge orders from clients from the United States, Japan and the European Union. The remainder, which was small and medium enterprises, had weak competition capacity and small investment capital, hence they faced more difficulties while seeking orders.

Meanwhile, the number of foreign investment businesses in the country was few, but they retained more than 50 per cent of the market share. Vietnamese SMEs mostly did outsourcing work of foreign investment businesses.

Duong Phuong Thao, deputy director of the Import-Export Department under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, said Viet Nam exported processed wood worth US$7 billion in 2016, while global demand stood at $400 billion for wood products. Viet Nams wood industry, he said, must grow further to capitalise on the huge global demand.

In 2017, MARD will switch the use of 200,000ha under small tree forests to growing large trees and issue sustainable forest certificate to those land areas. The total area under large trees granted sustainable forest certificates is expected to reach 500,000ha by 2020, promising a high-quality and certified source of timber for processing and exporting.

Thao added that the Vietnamese Government planned to negotiate with its Lao and Cambodian counterparts to create better conditions for Vietnamese firms to source timber from forests in these countries to increase the supply of raw material.

The local wood industry uses 30 million cu.m. of raw timber for manufacturing every year and has shipped products to more than 100 countries and territories. Only two-thirds of the timber is sourced domestically while the rest has to be imported.  VNS
PARIS - It was the fairytale ending to a fortnight of Paris fashion shows. A year ago Danish designer Christine Hyun Mi Nielsen was fired from her high-pressure job as the director of the studio of one of the worlds top brands.

Fourteen months on she has her own label -- Hyun Mi Nielsen -- with a show on the haute couture catwalk on January 26, the very pinnacle of the fashion tree.

The creator, who was born in Korea and adopted by a Danish couple, said her first solo Paris collection wasnt just about climbing the career ladder, it was also deeply "personal".

"It was a way to find myself after I was dismissed from my job," she said.

"For someone like me who puts so much effort into my work which I love so much, it was so painful.

"This is about finding my own voice to get over the grief," said the 40-year-old, who had led the Givenchy studio and Alexander McQueen womenswear before being sacked from Balenciaga last October after the arrival of Vetements wunderkind Demna Gvasalia.

Punk princesses

All her models wore army-surplus boots -- punk princesses off to a ball -- with the collection kicked off by a spectacular figure-hugging white dress with intricate frills of organza on tulle.

She also put a ruff of starched frills on an eye-catching three-piece leather biker outfit -- and cut a long back leather dress as if it had been frilly tulle.

The contrasts of hard and soft, darkness and light, frivolous and serious clearly a metaphor of what Nielsen has been through. One model even had a thunderously blacked-up face.

Nielsen was helped to set up on her own in Paris by a "subtle and sophisticated" female investor, she said, but did not name her.

Haute couture is a purely Parisian institution limited to 15 labels, and the designer said she was thrilled to have been invited as a guest member into its elite ranks.

All clothes have to be made to measure by hand, meaning couture can usually only be afforded by the richest women.

"My love of fashion is not just the (visual) image but also the technique and the craft," Nielsen said.

"So its especially exciting for me to start my own company in France -- this is the home of (fashion) savoir faire (know-how)."

The Dane began her rise at Max Mara in Italy before returning to London, where she studied at the Royal College of Art, to join Burberry before she moved on to McQueen, whose edgy poetry she has clearly inherited.

The Dutch-Vietnamese designer Xuan-Thu Nguyen also made her Paris couture debut on Thursday as nearly two weeks of menswear and couture shows drew to a close.

Her Xuan label, which she founded 12 years ago, is best known for its "surprise and fragility" and her spring summer collection had avalanches of frills on otherwise plain and pure pale pastel mousseline and tulle outfits.  AFP
United States Court of Appeals, Eighth Circuit. Diversified Ingredients, Inc. Plaintiff - Appellant v. Joseph W. Testa, Ohio State Tax Commissioner Defendant - Appellee No. 16-2791 Decided: January 23, 2017

Before LOKEN, BEAM, and BENTON, Circuit Judges.

In a preliminary proposed audit, the Ohio Department of Taxation assessed Diversified Ingredients, Inc. (Diversified), a Missouri corporation, as owing $561,448.00 in unpaid tax, penalties, and interest under Ohio's Commercial Activity Tax (CAT). Diversified commenced this action in the Eastern District of Missouri against Joseph W. Testa, the Ohio State Tax Commissioner, seeking a declaratory judgment that the Interstate Income Act, 15 U.S.C.  381, deprives Ohio of jurisdiction to assess and collect the CAT on Diversified's sales of goods manufactured and shipped from outside Ohio to locations in Ohio, and an order enjoining the State Tax Commissioner from asserting that jurisdiction. Diversified appeals the district court order dismissing the action as barred by the Tax Injunction Act, 28 U.S.C.  1341, and by long-standing principles of comity that restrain[ ] federal courts from entertaining claims for relief that risk disrupting state tax administration. Levin v. Commerce Energy, Inc., 560 U.S. 413, 424 (2010). Reviewing the dismissal for lack of subject matter jurisdiction de novo, we affirm. See Dakota, Minn., & E.R.R. v. Schieffer, 711 F.3d 878, 880 (8th Cir. 2013).

The Ohio CAT is an annual tax on the privilege of doing business in this state. See Ohio Rev. Code  5751.02(A); Beaver Excavating Co. v. Testa, 983 N.E.2d 1317, 1324 (2012). The CAT is imposed on gross receipts sitused to this state,  5751.01(G). Gross receipts are sitused to Ohio if the property is received in this state by the purchaser,  5751.033(e). Subject to exclusions,  gross receipts' means the total amount realized by a person, without deduction for the cost of goods sold or other expenses incurred, that contributes to the production of gross income,  5751.01(F). The exclusions include [a]ny receipts for which the tax imposed by this chapter is prohibited by the constitution or laws of the United States or the constitution of this state,  5751.01(F)(2)(ll).

Diversified sells commodities such as pet food ingredients to customers located outside of Ohio and uses for-hire motor carriers to ship these commodities to destinations directed by the customer. The contracts are negotiated and executed outside Ohio. Diversified has no employees located in Ohio and is not registered to do business in Ohio. At issue are Diversified's sales to customers who direct the delivery of Diversified products to manufacturing plants in Ohio. Although the Interstate Income Act (IIA) limits state taxation of net income, 15 U.S.C.  381, and the CAT is imposed on a corporation's gross receipts, Diversified claims that the IIA divests Ohio of jurisdiction to assess the CAT against Diversified's out-of-state sales that are delivered to its customers in Ohio.

Reacting to Supreme Court decisions that rejected constitutional challenges to the imposition of state income taxes on the income of out-of-state corporations, Congress passed the IIA to establish a minimum standard for imposing net income taxes based on solicitation of interstate sales. See Wis. Dept. of Revenue v. William Wrigley, Jr., Co., 505 U.S. 214, 220-23 (1992). Specifically, 15 U.S.C.  381 provides in relevant part:

No State, or political subdivision thereof, shall have power to impose  a net income tax on the income derived within such State by any person from interstate commerce if the only business activities within such State by or on behalf of such person during such taxable year are either, or both, of the following:

(1) the solicitation of orders by such person, or his representative, in such State for sales of tangible personal property, which orders are sent outside the State for approval or rejection, and, if approved, are filled by shipment or delivery from a point outside the State; and

(2) the solicitation of orders by such person, or his representative, in such State in the name of or for the benefit of a prospective customer of such person, if orders by such customer to such person to enable such customer to fill orders resulting from such solicitation are orders described in paragraph (1).

The district court declined to rule on whether the IIA strips Ohio of authority to impose the CAT based on the Diversified transactions at issue. Instead, the court held that the Tax Injunction Act (TIA) deprived it of subject matter jurisdiction to entertain this action. Diversified Ingredients, Inc. v. Testa, 2016 WL 2932160 (E.D. Mo. May 19, 2016). We agree.

The TIA provides: The district courts shall not enjoin, suspend or restrain the assessment, levy or collection of any tax under State law where a plain, speedy and efficient remedy may be had in the courts of such State. 28 U.S.C.  1341. Congress enacted the TIA to transfer jurisdiction  to the state courts to grant injunctive relief that could interfere with the State's power to assess, levy, and collect taxes. Rosewell v. LaSalle Nat. Bank, 450 U.S. 503, 515 n.19 (1981); see Tully v. Griffin, Inc., 429 U.S. 68, 73 (1976). As originally enacted, the statute provided that no district court shall have jurisdiction of any suit to enjoin, suspend, or restrain  Act of Aug. 21, 1937, 50 Stat. 738, codified at 28 U.S.C.  41(1) (1940 ed.). Though the explicit reference to jurisdiction was removed in the 1948 United States Code revisions, the Supreme Court has continued to refer to the TIA as limiting subject matter jurisdiction. See Direct Marketing Ass'n v. Brohl, 135 S. Ct. 1124, 1133-34 (2015); Levin, 560 U.S. at 429 n.10 & 433 (Thomas, J., concurring); Ark. v. Farm Credit Servs. of Central Ark., 520 U.S. 821, 825-26 (1997); Cal. v. Grace Brethren Church, 457 U.S. 393, 408 (1982) (TIA strips district courts of jurisdiction to award declaratory relief). Thus, the district court properly decided this issue of law in ruling on Testa's Rule 12(b)(1) motion to dismiss for lack of subject matter jurisdiction.

Diversified's primary contention is that the district court erred in failing to determine whether the IIA bars Ohio from imposing the CAT on Diversified's out-of-state sales because federal courts have exclusive jurisdiction to interpret and enforce the IIA's federally conferred tax immunity. It is true that the TIA has been held not to preclude the grant of federal equitable relief to a party suing under a federal statute that conferred original or exclusive jurisdiction on the federal courts. See Moe v. Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes of Flathead Reservation, 425 U.S. 463, 472 (1976) (Indian tribe suing under 28 U.S.C.  1362); City Vending of Muskogee, Inc. v. Okla. Tax Comm'n, 898 F.2d 122, 123 (10th Cir. 1990) (Bankruptcy Code exception to the TIA); Se. Pa. Transp. Auth. v. Pa. Pub. Utility Comm'n, 802 F. Supp. 1273, 1281-85 (E.D. Pa. 1992) (construing 45 U.S.C.  546b and 581(c)(5) exception); Firestone Tire & Rubber Co. v. Bodle, 645 F. Supp. 305, 310-11 (N.D. Ohio 1986) (ERISA exception).

The IIA does not explicitly provide for exclusive federal jurisdiction, and numerous appellate state court decisions have applied the IIA to specific state tax cases. See, e.g., Gillette Co. v. Dep't of Treasury, 497 N.W.2d 595, 597-99 (Mich. App. 1993). These decisions confirm that the deeply rooted presumption in favor of concurrent state court jurisdiction applies to the IIA. Tafflin v. Levitt, 493 U.S. 455, 459 (1990); see Gulf Offshore Co. v. Mobil Oil Corp., 453 U.S. 473, 478 (1981). As the Supreme Court decision affirming a state court decision in Wrigley illustrates, the IIA divests state legislatures of the power to impose net income taxes on certain out-of-state transactions, but it does not divest state courts of jurisdiction to decide whether the IIA bars a particular state tax assessment, levy, or collection. Of course, this is a question of federal law that may ultimately be reviewed by the United States Supreme Court.

The TIA applies to a suit in federal court seeking to enjoin assessment, levy or collection of a state tax where a plain, speedy and efficient remedy may be had in the courts of such State. 28 U.S.C.  1341. Diversified argues that the Ohio CAT does not provide a plain state court remedy because the statute expressly provides that the CAT is not subject to the IIA. Ohio Rev. Code  5751.02(A). The contention is without merit. This TIA exception is procedural. It addresses only whether state law provides a remedy that permits a taxpayer to challenge the state tax at issue in state court. See Rosewell, 450 U.S. at 514-17. Here, the Ohio Revenue Code provides taxpayers an appeal of right to an Ohio appellate court which will hear and decide a claim that a state tax has been invalidly assessed or collected. Id. at 517; see Ohio Rev. Code  5717.04. This obviously includes authority to decide that imposing the CAT on Diversified's out-of-state transactions violates the IIA, regardless of the Ohio Legislature's contrary intention. Cf. Beaver Excavating, 983 N.E.2d at 1324.

The district court further concluded that it should abstain from entertaining this lawsuit under comity principles. In Levin, 560 U.S. at 417, the Supreme Court noted that the long-standing doctrine restraining federal court relief that risks disrupting state tax administration is [m]ore embracive than the TIA. Thus, our decision that the TIA effectively transferred jurisdiction over Diversified's equitable claims to the Ohio state courts is not at odds with comity principles applied in Levin and earlier cases. However, as we agree with the district court that the TIA deprived that court of subject matter jurisdiction over Diversified's claim, we decline to consider whether dismissal was also appropriate under prudential comity principles.

The judgment of the district court is affirmed.

FOOTNOTES

. The Honorable Ronnie L. White, United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Missouri.

LOKEN, Circuit Judge.
HA NOI  The agriculture and rural development ministry has approved a plan to provide vocational training to 1.4 million rural labourers over the next four years.

At least 80 per cent of labourers should have stable jobs or earn higher income in their current jobs after training, the ministry has estimated.

While one million labourers will undergo a three-month primary vocational training, around 400,000 will receive intermediate- and college-level training.

The training cost for primary levels will be VN2 trillion (US$88.6 million). Of this, VN1.1 trillion ($48.7 million) will be allocated from the National Target Programme on New Rural Development; the remaining funds will come from local authorities and other sources.

The ministry said the target group includes labourers involved in agriculture restructuring and new-style rural area buildings, those who work in farms, cooperatives and enterprises related to farmers, the disabled, the disadvantaged households and women.

Vocational training will focus on technical and management skills in cultivation, husbandry, fishing, fish farming, salt processing and salt production. There will also be programmes on restructuring agricultural production, adapting to climate change and addressing maritime environment pollution.

Every locality will have to select appropriate occupations related to large-scale agricultural production, chain production, high-tech products and food safety.

Pilot training courses will be suggested in key production areas, and the vocational training curriculum will be revised to suit the demands of the labour market. Teachers at vocational training centres will also get to do courses to improve their knowledge.  VNS
WASHINGTON - President Donald Trump hailed a "most special relationship" with Britain and threw his support behind Brexit on January 27, as he hosted British Prime Minister Theresa May for his debut on the diplomatic stage.

At a tense moment in trans-Atlantic relations, Trump tried to recast the "deep bond" as a meeting of ideological minds: two countries embracing populist policies and taking an uncompromising view of the national interest.

Trump pointed to Britains exit from the European Union as a "wonderful thing" and said: "When it irons out, youre going to have your own identity, and you are going to have the people that you want in your country."

"Youre going to be able to make free trade deals without having somebody watching you and what you are doing," he added.

May brushed aside deep-seated differences on issues from torture to Russia, to pursue a diplomatic charm offensive aimed at securing commitments on trade and mutual defence.

May conveyed an invitation from Queen Elizabeth II for Trump to come to Britain for a state visit later this year.

The pair even briefly held hands as they walked down the West Wing colonnade.

Trump greeted May himself upon her arrival at the White House and then they went to the Oval Office, posing and shaking hands in front of a bust of Winston Churchill.

Behind closed doors, May was expected to give Trump an engraved quaich -- a ceremonial cup exchanged by Scottish highland chiefs -- in a nod to Trumps Scottish ancestry. His mother was born on the island of Lewis.

For First Lady Melania Trump, May was to gift a hamper of apple juice, damson plum jam, marmalade, Bakewell tarts and cranberry and white chocolate shortbread cookies.

But May also came with a diplomatic shopping list. Trans-Atlantic relations have been rocked by Trumps election and his willingness to rethink NATO, the UN and other foundation blocks of the liberal world order.

With Trump largely silent on these issues during a joint press conference, May conveyed what had been said in private.

"Weve reaffirmed our unshakeable commitment to this alliance," she said.

"Mr President, I think you confirmed that you were 100 per cent behind NATO."

Much of Britains military power, including its nuclear deterrent, depends on US equipment and systems.

In private, European diplomats worry about the influence of top Trump advisor Steve Bannon, who has made common cause with right-wing nationalists and populists in France, Britain and beyond.

Many in European capitals are conscious of the continents previous embraces of nationalism -- the Balkan wars and the horrors of World War II, which left millions dead.

Post-Brexit trade

Trumps break with decades of US support for multilateral trade deals and his preference for bilateral accords did offer May one opening as she seeks to navigate Britains complex exit from the European Union.

Faced with exit from the European single market, the British government is scrambling to secure bilateral deals around the world.

Trump nevertheless offered no firm commitment to negotiate a free trade agreement, but did say: "We look forward to working closely with you as we strengthen our mutual ties and commerce, business and foreign affairs."

That could pose problems for May at home. Her decision to meet Trump just one week after his inauguration has caused considerable controversy.

Trump has been condemned by European politicians of all stripes for his comments about women, Muslims and the use of torture.

May was not helped Thursday when the White House misspelled her name multiple times when announcing her visit.

I think were going to get along

The reserved daughter of a vicar had promised to be "frank" in her dealings with the unpredictable billionaire. The pair laughed off questions about their personal compatibility.

Trump joked that he was "not as brash as you might think" and, turning to May, said: "I think were going to get along very well."

Throughout the long US election campaign, Trump showed little interest in foreign policy except through the prism of his image at home and a pledge to put "America First".

His first week in office has been marked by a war of words with Mexico over the building of a border wall, and his vow to make Mexico pay for it.

On Thursday, Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto called off a planned trip to Washington in protest. But the pair spoke by telephone on Friday and agreed to try to resolve their differences, the two sides said.

May arrived in the United States on Thursday and received a rapturous welcome from Republican lawmakers gathering in Philadelphia with a speech urging them to "beware" of Russia, and warning US allies to "step up" and play a greater role in global security.

On Friday, Trump said it was "too early" to talk about whether he might lift sanctions against Moscow. May took a much sterner line, saying the sanctions should continue. - AFP
LISBON - Leaders of seven southern European Union nations meet in Lisbon on Saturday to forge a common approach to deal with Britains looming exit from the bloc and the new protectionist administration of US President Donald Trump.

The mostly centre-left leaders taking part in the gathering -- the second by southern EU leaders in four months -- are also expected to renew their push for action to boost flagging growth in the EU and tackle the ongoing migrant crisis.

Faced with the rise of "protectionism and populism", the EU needs urgent reforms to "surpass the economic, social and political legitimacy crisis which is weakening it," Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa, the summits host, said Tuesday.

French President Francois Hollande and Italian Prime Minister Paolo Gentiloni are scheduled to take part in the talks, which are due to start at 11:00 am local time. Also holding court are the leaders of Spain, Greece, Cyprus and Malta.

The leaders will issue a joint statement after the meeting that is expected to focus on the need to boost growth and investment in Europe.

This is a follow up to a first gathering held in Athens in September 2016 as part of a push by Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras to create a strong southern "axis" to counter the influence of nations in northern Europe.

The group is often referred to -- sometimes dismissively -- as "Club Med", even though one of its members, Portugal, is not on the Mediterranean.

It includes some of the nations which were hit hardest by the financial crisis. Portugal and Greece both got international bailouts worth tens of billions of euros which came with demands for tough austerity measures and economic reforms.

The Lisbon summit comes ahead of a February 3 meeting of EU leaders in Malta to reflect on the future of the bloc without Britain, its second-largest economy and its richest financial centre.

Politically weak leaders

Analysts said forging a common front will be hard as southern EU nations have different priorities and many of the leaders who will be at the Lisbon summit are politically weak.

Hollande is not a candidate in Frances presidential election later this year and his Socialist party is trailing in the polls.

"So whatever Hollande promises or agrees this weekend will probably be forgotten by the middle of the year," said Adriano Bosoni, senior Europe analyst at US private intelligence firm Stratfor.

"The Italian government is also fragile. The Greek prime minister is struggling to keep his government alive."

Paris is not interested in breaking its traditional partnership with Germany which has long set the pace for the EU, said Guntram Wolff, director of Bruegel, a Brussels-based think thank.

"France is both a nation of the south and the north, she creates bridges between the two regions. There is no reason for her to seek confrontation with Germany," he said.

Trump challenge

Hollande travelled to Berlin on Friday on the eve of the summit for talks with German Chancellor Angela Merkel in a sign of the continued importance which Paris puts on the French-German axis.

During a joint press conference with Merkel he warned Trumps administration poses "challenges" to "our trade rules, as well as to our ability to resolve conflicts around the world".

Trump has rattled his traditional European allies with a range of radical policy plans, from calling NATO "obsolete" to announcing he would rip up a planned transatlantic trade plan and supporting Britains move to leave the EU.

Eurogroup head Jeroen Dijsselbloem warned Thursday that Europe was "on its own" after Trump took over as US president, but said it could be an opportunity to strengthen the EU. - AFP
WASHINGTON - US President Donald Trump signed a sweeping new executive order Friday to suspend refugee arrivals and impose tough new controls on travelers from seven Muslim countries.

Making good on one of his most controversial campaign promises, and to the horror of human rights groups, Trump said he was making America safe from "radical Islamic terrorists".

"This is big stuff," he declared at the Pentagon, after signing an order entitled: "Protection of the nation from foreign terrorist entry into the United States."

Trumps decree suspends the entire US refugee resettlement programme for at least 120 days while tough new vetting rules are established.

These new protocols will "ensure that those approved for refugee admission do not pose a threat to the security and welfare of the United States."

In addition, it specifically bars Syrian refugees from the United States indefinitely, or until the president himself decides that they no longer pose a threat.

Meanwhile, no visas will be issued for 90 days to migrants or visitors from seven mainly-Muslim countries: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

Extreme vetting

During the suspensions of the refugee and visa programmes, new rules will be devised for what Trump as called the "extreme vetting" of applicants backgrounds.

Some exceptions will be made for members of "religious minorities," which -- in the countries targeted by the decree -- would imply favorable treatment for Christians.

Civil liberties groups and many counterterror experts condemned the measures, declaring it inhumane to lump the victims of conflict in with the extremists who threaten them.

"Extreme vetting is just a euphemism for discriminating against Muslims," said Anthony Romero, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union. Romero argued that, by choosing countries with Muslim majorities for tougher treatment, Trumps order breaches the US Constitutions ban on religious discrimination.

Ahmed Rehab, director of the Chicago chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, said his group would mount legal challenges to fight the order "tooth and nail."

"It is targeting people based on their faith and national origin, and not on their character or their criminality," he said.

Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani activist and Nobel peace laureate who was shot in the head by the Taliban in 2012, said she was "heartbroken."

She urged Trump not to abandon the worlds "most defenseless children and families."

But the measure will be popular with Trumps nationalist base, and stops short of a threat made during last years campaign to halt all Muslim travel to the United States.

Trumps supporters defend the measures as necessary to prevent supporters of Al-Qaeda or the Islamic State group from infiltrating the US homeland disguised as refugees.

And the State Department, which with the Department of Homeland Security will have to implement the measures, said it was ready to put them into immediate effect.

"We will announce any changes affecting travelers to the United States as soon as that information is available," spokesman Mark Toner said.

"We take seriously our responsibility to safeguard the American public while remaining committed to assisting the worlds most vulnerable people."

Wonderful thing

Trump signed the order -- which will cut the number of refugees the United States plans to resettle this fiscal year from 110,000 to 50,000 -- in a ceremony at the Pentagon.

Moments earlier, he had signed an order to "rebuild" the US military and had watched Vice President Mike Pence swear in respected former Marine general James Mattis as his new secretary of defence.

Trump showered Mattis with praise and had earlier admitted he would allow the generals opposition to the use of torture to override his own enthusiasm for harsh measures.

In what was a busy day from Trump, one week after his inauguration, he also met with Britains Prime Minister Theresa May, the first foreign leader to visit his White House.

He hailed the "most special relationship" between the twin Atlantic powers and praised Britains decision to leave the European Union as a "wonderful thing."

"When it irons out, youre going to have your own identity, and you are going to have the people that you want in your country," Trump said, in a nod to his own immigration stance.

"Youre going to be able to make free trade deals without having somebody watching you and what you are doing." - AFP
DECORAH  The 322nd Engineer Co. based in Decorah is relocating to Las Vegas, according to Staff Sergeant Jason Proseus, public affairs noncommissioned officer for the 416th Theater Engineer Command in Darian, Ill.

The move is necessary for two reasons, Proseus said.

It is difficult for the unit to find engineer soldiers. That will be easier in Las Vegas, with its much-larger population. The climate in Nevada is also more conducive to year-round training, he said.

Soldiers assigned to the 322nd Engineer Co. can transfer to another unit in the area, and can change their military occupation in order to transfer. They may also transfer to the Individual Ready Reserve.

The unit recently received their movement orders. However, it will take some time to move a unit of this size, Proseus said.

About 50 soldiers train at the Reserve Center, typically once a month.

The 322nd Engineer Co. is the only unit located at the PFC Lloyd C. Wohlford Jr. Decorah Army Reserve Center. The center will not close immediately, but its future use by the Army Reserve is tentative, Proseus said.

If another unit decides to move in, it will continue to be an Army Reserve facility. If no unit takes up residence there after a year, it will close down, he said.
CEDAR FALLS -- As the governor and Republican lawmakers mull changes to public employee collective bargaining laws, University of Northern Iowa faculty are girding for battle.

The United Faculty union held a "Call to Action" meeting Friday, asking members to contact legislators and tell their stories about the importance of the bargaining rights now enshrined in Iowa Code.

"This is one of the most important moments in the history of this university," Joe Gorton, United Faculty president, told those assembled in the Lang Hall auditorium. "We're not going to be able to transcend the issues that are being foisted on us if we don't stand together."

Under current bargaining rights, "We know that we aren't subject to the arbitrary whims of management that might not be here tomorrow," he added. "None of us can afford to stand idle."

Republicans, who hold a majority this session in both houses of the Legislature, have pledged to make changes to the way the state bargains with public employee unions over wages and benefits. Gov. Terry Branstad has proposed changing collective bargaining in part by having public employees on one statewide health insurance contract rather than multiple contracts.

"We are with you in this fight," said Julie Schmid, executive director of the American Association of University Professors, who attended the meeting. "This matters greatly to our members. That is what solidarity is, and we'll have your back."

Schmid, who worked in Wisconsin when public employees were stripped of their bargaining rights, talked about how that has impacted the education system there. She said the state's experience has taught a number of lessons -- most strongly in the public kindergarten through 12th-grade system.

"One of the lessons we can learn is more turnover and less ability to recruit and retain high-quality faculty," said Schmid. "There's about a 25 percent turnover in most school districts."

In some cases, wealthier school districts are offering $20,000 to $25,000 signing bonuses while smaller, rural districts are having a harder time retaining teachers. "This really has created a system of haves and have-nots," she said. "That's not what you want."

The University of Wisconsin in Madison also paid a price this academic year to attract and retain faculty, according to Schmid. "On top of their salary package, they had to pay almost $9 million to keep about 30 faculty," she said. "Again, the losers are the smaller institutions, the non-flagships" that can't compete with those incentives.

Northern Iowa Student Government leaders spoke, supporting faculty and the current bargaining rights. In a statement, student leaders wrote: "Without Chapter 20 effectively in place, not only will our faculty suffer, but it would also have a crippling effect on the education provided to the 12,000 students here at UNI." Chapter 20 refers to where laws related to collective bargaining are located in Iowa Code.

"NISG will be voting on a resolution regarding this issue next week," said Hunter Flesch, student body president.

Associate Professor Jerry Soneson noted weakening collective bargaining could endanger the tenure system. "If we lost tenure, we would lose excellent faculty -- the excellent faculty we have at UNI now as well as the possibility to attract excellent faculty," he said. A bill has been introduced at the Legislature to abolish tenure.

Organizers handed out postcards and lists of Republican legislators who are also UNI alumni so they could register concerns with the proposals. They directed attendees to the United Faculty website to sign a petition that will be hand-delivered to state Republican leaders.

Nate Willems, the United Faculty's attorney, asked attendees to go online and examine bargaining topics in Chapter 20.9 of the Iowa Code. He urged them to email legislators and "tell your specific story" about what bargaining rights mean in their lives.

"Those emails don't go unread and they make your legislator understand that there are people who do care about these issues," said Willems.
CEDAR RAPIDS  U.S. Rep. Rod Blum welcomed 29 new American citizens in Cedar Rapids and thanked them for respecting the immigration laws of their adopted country.

Congratulations my fellow Americans, Blum told the new citizens, including a member of the Army Reserve, representing 20 countries from Brazil to Zambia. Thank you for very much for participating in our immigration in the right way, the legal way.

He welcomed the newcomers who ranged in age from ages 24 to 68 to the liberty, to the freedom, the personal responsibility of what American citizenship is.

Blum didnt see any incongruity between his welcome and President Donald Trumps executive orders that would suspend U.S. refugee programs for four months.

Trumps 120-day pause in resettling refugees from seven countries that are what Blum called hotbeds of terrorism makes sense to him after receiving classified briefings by the directors of the FBI and National Security Agency.

I cant tell you what they said, but the bottom line is they cant properly vet people coming from war-torn areas like Syria and Iraq, the Dubuque Republican said. If we cant vet people properly, then we shouldnt be allowing them into our country. Im supportive of that.

Blum, beginning his second term representing the 20-county Northeast Iowa 1st District, believes NATO-patrolled safe zones in those regions would better serve people displaced by war.

Then when its safe, they are close, they can go back to their homes, he said.

Blum also welcomed Trumps actions to kick-start construction of a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border.

Although the cost  estimated between $12 billion and $15 billion  will increase the deficit in the short term, over time it will reduce costs, Blum predicted.

Were going to save money in the long run by not spending money on social services for illegal immigrants, he said. Theyre heavy users of social services, of police. We spend a lot of money, states do, cities do and the federal government does, on the problem of illegal immigration.
United States Court of Appeals, Eighth Circuit. United States of America Plaintiff - Appellee v. Ricky Funke Defendant - Appellant No. 16-1218 Decided: January 24, 2017

Before MURPHY, BENTON, and SHEPHERD, Circuit Judges.

Ricky J. Funke pled guilty to one count of possessing child pornography in violation of 18 U.S.C.  2252A(a)(5)(B) and (b)(2). The district court sentenced him to 135 months' imprisonment and ordered $3,500 in restitution. He appeals the sentence and restitution. Having jurisdiction under 28 U.S.C.  1291, this court affirms.

Funke possessed over 600 images and videos of child pornography, including depictions of child rape and bondage. Among these were 21 videos from the Vicky series, depicting her sexual abuse at the age of 10 and 11. Some of the images and videos had been on his computer since 2001.

Funke's guideline range was 135 to 168 months. At sentencing, he moved for a downward variance. The district court denied it, sentencing him to 135 months' imprisonment. Vicky requested $27,500 in restitution and attorney's fees. On the government's recommendation, the court ordered $3,500 restitution to Vicky.

I.

Funke argues the district court erred in sentencing him to 135 months, the bottom of the guidelines range. He asserts the court gave insufficient weight to his military service, lack of criminal record, and long-term employment.

This court reviews the substantive reasonableness of a sentence for abuse of discretion. United States v. Harlan, 815 F.3d 1100, 1107 (8th Cir. 2016).

An abuse of discretion occurs when: 1) a court fails to consider a relevant factor that should have received significant weight; 2) a court gives significant weight to an improper or irrelevant factor; or 3) a court considers only the appropriate factors but in weighing them commits a clear error of judgment.

United States v. Farmer, 647 F.3d 1175, 1179 (8th Cir. 2011). Where a sentence imposed is within the advisory guideline range, [this court] typically accord[s] it a presumption of reasonableness. United States v. Scales, 735 F.3d 1048, 1052 (8th Cir. 2013), quoting United States v. Deegan, 605 F.3d 625, 634 (8th Cir. 2010). It is the defendant's burden to rebut the presumption and to show that the sentence should have been lower. United States v. Goodale, 738 F.3d 917, 926 (8th Cir. 2013), citing United States v. Peck, 496 F.3d 885, 891 (8th Cir. 2007).

Funke has not rebutted the presumption. After argument from both parties, the district court stated it had carefully considered each and every factor under 18 United States Code  3553(a). The court considered Funke's military service, lack of criminal record, and long-term employment, but determined that the length of his criminal conduct and the large number of images did not warrant a downward variance. The district court did not abuse its discretion in sentencing at the bottom of the guidelines range. See United States v. Feemster, 572 F.3d 455, 464 (8th Cir. 2009) (en banc) ([I]t will be the unusual case when we reverse a district court sentencewhether within, above, or below the applicable Guidelines rangeas substantively unreasonable.) (quotation omitted).

II.

Funke contests the restitution. First, he contends the district court should not have included future costs in costs incurred by Vicky. Second, he challenges the amount of the award. An award of restitution is reviewed for abuse of discretion, and district court interpretations of the Mandatory Victims Restitution Act (MVRA) are reviewed de novo. United States v. Evans, 802 F.3d 942, 950 (8th Cir. 2015), quoting United States v. Allison, 772 F.3d 554, 556 (8th Cir. 2014).

A.

Restitution shall be awarded for the full amount of the victim's losses, defined as any costs incurred by the victim for:

(A) medical services relating to physical, psychiatric, or psychological care;

(B) physical and occupational therapy or rehabilitation;

(C) necessary transportation, temporary housing, and child care expenses;

(D) lost income;

(E) attorneys' fees, as well as other costs incurred; and

(F) any other losses suffered by the victim as a proximate result of the offense.

18 U.S.C.  2259(b)(3).

Funke argues costs incurred do not include future costs. Five circuits hold that future losses are compensable under section 2259. See United States v. Rogers, 758 F.3d 37, 39 (1st Cir. 2014) (affirming restitution based on an estimate of Vicky's future therapy costs, occasioned by defendant's conduct); United States v. Pearson, 570 F.3d 480, 486 (2nd Cir. 2009) (holding that costs incurred may include restitution for estimated future medical expenses); United States v. Danser, 270 F.3d 451, 455 (7th Cir. 2001) (holding that future counseling expenses are compensable under section 2559); United States v. Julian, 242 F.3d 1245, 1246-48 (10th Cir. 2001) (same); United States v. Laney, 189 F.3d 954, 966-67 (9th Cir. 1999) (same). As the Seventh Circuit explained:

We do not believe that Congress sought to create such a cumbersome procedure for victims to receive restitution. In enacting section 2259, it is clear that Congress intended to provide victims of sexual abuse with expansive relief for the full amount of  [their] losses suffered as a result of abuse,  2259(b)(3)(B) (emphasis added). Congress chose unambiguously to use unqualified language in prescribing full restitution for victims. Indeed, in the legislative history of the contested statute, Congress cites the United States Supreme Court's landmark decision in New York v. Ferber, 458 U.S. 747, 102 S. Ct. 3348, 73 L.Ed.2d 1113 (1982). In that case, the Court discussed, at great length, the devastating and long term effects that the sexual exploitation of children can have both upon the victims of that abuse and greater society. Id. In light of Congress's intent to make whole those victims of sexual exploitation, we find that section 2259 allows for restitutionary damages for the future costs of therapy.

Danser, 270 F.3d at 455. Persuaded by the reasoning of the other circuits, the district court properly awarded restitution based on future losses.

B.

Funke challenges the district court's proximate cause determination. In Paroline v. United States, the Supreme Court considered a similar argument, holding:

In this special context, where it can be shown both that a defendant possessed a victim's images and that a victim has outstanding losses caused by the continuing traffic in those images but where it is impossible to trace a particular amount of those losses to the individual defendant by recourse to a more traditional causal inquiry, a court applying  2259 should order restitution in an amount that comports with the defendant's relative role in the causal process that underlies the victim's general losses.

Paroline, 134 S. Ct. 1710, 1727 (2014). Determining the proper amount of restitution cannot be a precise mathematical inquiry and involves the use of discretion and sound judgment. Id. at 1728. The Court listed factors to consider:

the number of past criminal defendants found to have contributed to the victim's general losses; reasonable predictions of the number of future offenders likely to be caught and convicted for crimes contributing to the victim's general losses; any available and reasonably reliable estimate of the broader number of offenders involved (most of whom will, of course, never be caught or convicted); whether the defendant reproduced or distributed images of the victim; whether the defendant had any connection to the initial production of the images; how many images of the victim the defendant possessed; and other facts relevant to the defendant's relative causal role.

Id.

The district court properly applied the Paroline factors, considering Funke's possession of a large number of files involving [Vicky] and his role in distributing files to others over the BitTorrent program. The court did not abuse its discretion in awarding $3,500 in restitution. See United States v. Evans, 802 F.3d 942, 949-50 (8th Cir. 2015) (finding no abuse of discretion in $3,250 restitution to Vicky where the defendant possessed 20 videos and a handful of images of her); United States v. Beckmann, 786 F.3d 672, 682 (8th Cir. 2015) (finding no abuse of discretion in $3,000 restitution to Vicky where the defendant possessed 14 videos and two images of her).

* * * * * * *

The judgment is affirmed.

FOOTNOTES

. The Honorable Linda R. Reade, Chief Judge, United States District Court for the Northern District of Iowa.

BENTON, Circuit Judge.
CEDAR FALLS  Atheist activist Justin Scott made clear his opposition to school choice legislation promised during the 2017 session. He challenged lawmakers at a forum Friday night to say if theyd support public money going to a private school that espoused satanic beliefs.

It wasnt a subject the lawmakers  many of whom said they attended Catholic school  chose to weigh in on.

But they were uniform in opposition to diverting money from what they consider already underfunded public schools to private schools, satanic or otherwise.

This battle is really about pulling money away from public education and giving it to someplace that you cannot ensure that youre getting a well-rounded education thats based in science and fact, Sen. Bill Dotzler, D-Waterloo, said to applause from the audience. Im clearly a no when it comes to that.

The Democratic lawmakers said the state already offers parents a choice on where students are educated.

Their comments in support of public schools and public employee unions earned robust applause from the crowd of more than 200 people, more than half of whom identified themselves as educators.

The crowd also cheered Scotts questioning the absence of Republican lawmakers at the event. Republicans have a majority in both the House and Senate and occupy the governors office, so Democrats have little power at the Capitol.

I would love to have the Republicans that were invited be here, but unfortunately theyre not, Scott said.

Thirteen lawmakers who represent Black Hawk or surrounding counties were invited. Four lawmakers came  Dotzler, Sen. Jeff Danielson, D-Waterloo, Rep. Timi Brown-Powers, D-Waterloo, and Rep. Bob Kressig, D-Cedar Falls. Rep. Ras Smith, D-Waterloo, told organizers he would miss the event as he just became a father for the second time, and Sen. Bill Dix, R-Shell Rock, told organizers he had a conflict.

The remaining seven did not respond, organizers said.

The event is moderated by the League of Women Voters of Black Hawk-Bremer Counties and sponsored by more than 30 area organizations.

Not attending was Rep. Walt Rogers, R-Cedar Falls, chairman of the House Education Committee. He has said a school choice bill is likely this year.

Lets look at everything and see what we can afford, see what type of transition period it would take to implement more choice for parents. Thats where Im at. Im willing to take a look at everything. Im going to give everything a fair hearing in education, Rogers said as the 2017 session began.

Educators made apparent their distaste for the direction the Legislature is headed on education issues. Danielson told the audience the proposed state aid increase is 1.1 percent.

Few of the educators chose to speak. Those who did questioned legislation to limit political discussions within schools and whether there would be support for early childhood education.

On the latter issue, Danielson offered a bleak forecast.

I would be very worried. If you remember when Gov. (Terry) Branstad campaigned to come back  one of his number one proposals was to completely eliminate the early childhood money in Iowa. They have the keys to the car this year, Danielson said. I would be ready to be engaged, to advocate to keep it.

Erin Murphy of Lee newspapers contributed to this story.
CEDAR RAPIDS  The Iowa Judicial Branch on Friday became the first state agency to tell employees they will have to take an unpaid furlough day as legislators near agreement on a plan to save the state nearly $118 million in five months.

All court offices in the state will be closed and 1,446 court employees, except judges and magistrates, will be forced to take the unpaid day May 26, saving an estimated $364,573, Iowa State Court Administrator David K. Boyd told employees in a letter.

In all, the Judicial Branch expects it will be required to cut $3 million from its existing budget of about $180 million.

To meet a projected revenue shortfall before June 30, lawmakers are planning to cut more than $88 million and make about $25 million in fund transfers, among other moves. Some 19,000 state employees represented by AFSCME will vote on whether to accept the states request they give up a recent 1.25 percent pay raise.

The Senate passed the budget measure and the House is expected to pass it Monday. Gov. Terry Branstad has indicated he will sign it.

Boyd said since personnel costs account for about 95 percent of the courts operating budget, options to save money are limited. The key, he wrote, is to use vacant positions to make up most of the cut.

At the beginning of the fiscal year, there were 70 staff vacancies. Thats now grown to 111. In addition, judge positions that became vacant during the year had been held open for about six months, he said.

We budgeted for nine judgeship vacancies, but so far we have had 12, Boyd said. Based on our savings to date, I believe we can hold sufficient positions vacant for the balance of the fiscal year to get us within $400,000 of covering the $3 million appropriation.

Boyd said court officials will continue to search for savings.

If at some point between now and May 26th we find sufficient additional savings, we will cancel the need for this one day of court closures and unpaid leave.

Boyd said judges and magistrates are expected to work that day unless approved to be off.

In his letter, Boyd noted during the past two fiscal years all nonjudicial employees received pay increases along with step increases for those already not at the top of their pay grade, Judges and magistrates have had only one increase since 2008.

The last statewide court closure due to budget cuts was in 2010, the Judicial Branch said.
WATERLOO  City Councilman Jerome Amos Jr. has accused two colleagues of making racially insensitive remarks at weekly meetings.

Amos, the citys only African-American council member, said councilmen Steve Schmitt and Tom Lind have made several comments over the past year he found inappropriate.

I dont want controversy on this council, and Im not out to cause anybody any problems, but somewhere down the line this needs to stop, Amos said. These things should not be said.

Amos, who sits between Schmitt and Lind at council meetings, said Schmitt had called the seating arrangment a reverse Oreo cookie and also said he looked like a Cadillac kind of guy, which he took to have racial undertones.

He said Lind made a reference to wearing a hood at Mondays meeting, the day after Mayor Quentin Hart had accused Lind in an email exchange of making racist, derogatory, partisan remarks.

Amos broke his silence about the matter after the email exchange became public. He had spoken about his concerns with Hart, the citys first African-American mayor, and believed it played a role in Harts sharp reaction to Lind.

Lind had criticized the mayor for appointing a part-time communications director without council approval, adding, You work for us. Obama (yesterday) is gone.

Hart responded he would no longer accept the disrespect, slander, threats, being called out of my name, or your racist partisan Obama comments from you or anyone else on this email.

Lind said the Obama reference referred to the former presidents penchant for approving executive orders and bypassing Congress and objected to Hart demeaning his character.

Lind declined Friday to discuss Amos comments.

Schmitt, however, said he was disheartened by what he heard from Amos, who hes known for 30 years and who he encouraged to run for council as I thought he was a well-intentioned individual who would be above such petty, partisan political comments.

Schmitt said hed noticed a nice Cadillac in the council parking lot one evening and, since he knew what other members drove, he assumed it was Amos and congratulated him on the car.

He seemed caught off guard, and said it wasnt his and why would I think it was? he said. I assumed he was joking. Council member (Ron) Welper overheard us and said it was his wifes car. I couldnt understand why Jerome disliked Sharon Welpers car, as I thought it was pretty nice.

Schmitt said he does not remember the Oreo comment.

If you watch Jerome, Tom and I before meetings, we are usually joking and laughing and I have never noticed Jerome take offense at anything that was said, Schmitt said. I usually make some comment along the lines of the liberal sitting between the two conservatives and then reference that I am sitting between Ron and Jerome so I am the conservative sitting between the two liberals.

Schmitt said he did support Linds right to question the hiring of a communications director, agreeing Hart should have sought council approval.

Rather than having a calm, mature and adult conversation about if the mayor will follow the rules, and how this hiring and others will impact the budget, the mayor reacts by calling Councilman Lind names  threatens Councilman Lind on any possible future questioning and, finally, unleashes a list of verbs and adverbs not based on fact, just his opinion.

City Attorney Dave Zellhoefer and City Clerk Kelley Felchle said Hart did follow the proper process and had authority to hire a part-time position without seeking council approval. Under Waterloos form of government, the mayor serves as the citys administrator and has broad authority on many personnel issues.
DES MOINES  Members of a union representing about 600 officers, included Iowa State Patrol troopers, say they didnt reject the states request to forego a pay raise they won through collective bargaining.

Instead, the State Police Officers Council said, the state declined their offer to return to the bargaining table in order to find a way for the union members to assist the state in dealing with a $118 million budget shortfall over the last six months of the fiscal year.

If the state accepted SPOCs contract offer for the 2018 fiscal year then SPOCs members could be in a position to consider the states proposal to forego our 1.25 percent pay increase in 2017 and assist the state in meeting their FY17 revenue shortfall, Sue Brown, the unions executive director, replied.

In its initial contract request, SPOC sought a 3 percent across-the-board pay increase for each of the next two fiscal years.

A spokeswoman for PolicyWorks, which represents the union, said in the past SPOC members have foregone salary increases in exchange for maintaining some aspects of their health insurance plans.

SPOC is currently the lowest-cost employee insurance group in the state, and contributes 20 percent toward their insurance premiums, Jessica Maldonado wrote.

The union is concerned Gov. Terry Branstads proposal to cover all state, county, city and school employees with one health insurance plan would inevitably raise insurance premiums for SPOC members who have been thoughtful users of their insurance plan, she said.

SPOC consistently has had the lowest cost family plan of all state employees, and no rate increase last year compared to an average 10 percent rate increase for all other state employee group pools, according to Maldonado.

Rather than rejects the states request, SPOC tried to work with the state to find a solution that would help the state with its current budget needs and also provide some assurance for our state law enforcement, she added.

The Department of Administrative Services, which represents the state in contract negotiations, confirmed the unions counter-offer was not accepted.

Iowa United Professionals rejected the request and AFSCMEs 19,000 state employees will begin voting in early February on whether to accept the states request.
United States Court of Appeals, District of Columbia Circuit. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, APPELLEE v. JAMES ANTONIO JONES, ALSO KNOWN AS TONIO, APPELLANT No. 15-3063 Decided: January 24, 2017

Before: KAVANAUGH and WILKINS, Circuit Judges, and WILLIAMS, Senior Circuit Judge. Tony Axam Jr., Assistant Federal Public Defender, argued the cause for appellant. With him on the briefs was A.J. Kramer, Federal Public Defender. Nicholas P. Coleman, Assistant U.S. Attorney, argued the cause for appellee. With him on the briefs were Elizabeth Trosman, Chrisellen R. Kolb, William B. Wiegand, and John Dominguez, Assistant U.S. Attorneys.

WILLIAMS, Senior Circuit Judge: Appellants Melvin Butler and James Antonio Jones are each serving lengthy prison sentences for drug offenses. Based on a recent retroactive amendment to the United States Sentencing Guidelines, they sought reductions of those sentences under 18 U.S.C.  3582(c)(2). Although the district court agreed that it could reduce their sentences, it declined to do so after considering the relevant factors listed in 18 U.S.C.  3553(a). United States v. Butler, 130 F. Supp. 3d 317 (D.D.C. 2015).

Appellants challenge those denials as substantively unreasonable. Before reaching the merits, we must consider our statutory basis to hear these appeals and whether that authority extends to reviewing the reasonableness of the district court's decisions. Since we find that 28 U.S.C.  1291 permits such review, we consider the underlying denials and, finding them to be reasonable, we affirm.

* * *

Section 3582 of Title 18 sets out the statutory background for the district court proceedings that we review. While it starts with the general proposition that a court may not modify a term of imprisonment once it has been imposed, it goes on to create exceptions, notably  3582(c)(2). Where a defendant has been sentenced to a term based on a sentencing range that has subsequently been lowered by the Sentencing Commission  , the court may reduce the term of imprisonment, after considering the factors set forth in section 3553(a)  if such a reduction is consistent with applicable policy statements issued by the Sentencing Commission. Id.  3582(c)(2); see U.S.S.G.  1B1.10(a) (policy statement on reductions); see also Dillon v. United States, 560 U.S. 817, 826-27 (2010) (further explaining the framework).

Along with several others, appellants were convicted in 1989 of conspiracy to distribute large amounts of cocaine. After post-trial motions and appeals (the details of which are not relevant here), the district court determined that, based on the quantity of drugs and various enhancements, the then-mandatory Sentencing Guidelines provided a range of 324 to 405 months for both Butler and Jones. The district court then imposed sentences at or near the top of that range405 months for Butler and 393 months for Jones. According to the Bureau of Prisons, Butler is scheduled to be released on October 14, 2017 and Jones on February 23, 2018.

Roughly twenty years later, the Sentencing Commission adopted amendments that authorized retroactive reduction of the sentences for most drug offenses. Unlike prior amendments that targeted specific substances, Amendment 782 worked an across-the-board reduction in the offense levels for most drug crimes. And in Amendment 788 the Commission provided for courts to apply the reduction retroactively after determining that offense levels had previously been set unnecessarily high and that a reduction would be an appropriate step toward alleviating the overcapacity of the federal prisons. U.S.S.G. Supp. to App'x C, Amend. 788 at 86. But the Commission built a one-year delay into its retroactivity amendment (until November 1, 2015), to give courts adequate time to obtain and review the information necessary to make an individualized determination  of whether a sentence reduction is appropriate based on the  3553(a) factors. Id. at 87; see also U.S.S.G.  1B1.10(e)(1).

Appellants filed unopposed motions invoking Amendment 782 to reduce their sentences to time served as of November 1, 2015. The district court agreed that appellants were each eligible for a reduction under Amendment 782, which reduced their sentencing ranges to 262 to 327 months. Butler, 130 F. Supp. 3d at 321. (Although by that point appellants had each served more than 327 months, the terms of Amendment 788 limited their maximum benefit to release on its November 1, 2015 start date.) Despite appellants' eligibility for reductions, the district court considered defendants' motions in light of the  3553(a) factors and held that any reductions were unwarranted. See id. Accordingly it denied the sentence-reduction motions. We address this reasoning in detail when we reach the merits.

* * *

Until now we haven't seriously considered our authority to review  3582(c)(2) sentence reductions, or denials of such reductions, either pursuant to our broad authority to review any final order of the district courts, 28 U.S.C.  1291, or the more specific power in 18 U.S.C.  3742(a)(1), which we have read as allowing us to review any sentence for reasonableness, United States v. Dorcely, 454 F.3d 366, 373-74 & n.4 (D.C. Cir. 2006) (relying on United States v. Booker, 543 U.S. 220 (2005)). Our prior decisions either silently assumed jurisdiction, e.g., United States v. Lafayette, 585 F.3d 435 (D.C. Cir. 2009), or merely stated without analysis that it existed, e.g., United States v. Kennedy, 722 F.3d 439, 442 (D.C. Cir. 2013) (jurisdiction under  1291); United States v. Cook, 594 F.3d 883, 885 (D.C. Cir. 2010) (jurisdiction under both  1291 and  3742). Of course, those cursory and unexamined statements of jurisdiction have no precedential effect. Steel Co. v. Citizens for a Better Env't, 523 U.S. 83, 91 (1998); see Lewis v. Casey, 518 U.S. 343, 352 n.2 (1996). But as the Sixth Circuit has found in United States v. Bowers, 615 F.3d 715 (6th Cir. 2010), that it could not hear a nearly identical appeal under either 28 U.S.C.  1291 or 18 U.S.C.  3742, we thought it necessary to grapple with the issue more explicitly and ordered supplemental briefing.

Denials of sentence reductions are unquestionably final decisions of [a] district court[ ] because they close the criminal cases once again. 28 U.S.C.  1291; see Midland Asphalt Corp. v. United States, 489 U.S. 794, 798 (1989) (decision is final when it leaves nothing further to be done). So  1291 obviously looks promising. But a would-be appellant cannot use that broad grant of jurisdiction to circumvent statutory restrictions on sentencing appeals in  3742. In re Sealed Case, 449 F.3d 118, 121 (D.C. Cir. 2006). Thus the presence of  3742 might pose an obstacle if an appeal under that section were available and if its provisions barred review for reasonableness, as Bowers held, 615 F.3d at 723-28. Indeed, the government invokes our preBooker decision in United States v. Hazel, 928 F.2d 420, 422-25 (D.C. Cir. 1991), which read  3742 to bar such review. Section 3742(a) allows a defendant to appeal on ground of violation of law, incorrect application of the sentencing guidelines, or any upward departure from the Guideline range, and Hazel read those specifics to have a negative implication, precluding appeals claiming only unreasonableness. We look at the situation first in light of our circuit law, which in fact now allows review for reasonableness in  3742 appeals. This completely moots the theory that use of  1291 would undercut  3742's limitations. We will then briefly consider the situation independent of the undercutting theory.

While Hazel would be binding in the absence of Booker, that case radically changed the landscape by eliminating the Guidelines' mandatory character. With a sentencing judge's departure from a specified range no longer subject to the special requirements of 18 U.S.C.  3553(b)(1), any negative implications from the specific provisions of  3742(a) or (b) made little sense, and Booker tidied the situation up by declaring that the Sentencing Reform Act implicitly provided for review for reasonableness. 543 U.S. at 260-62. See also Rita v. United States, 551 U.S. 338, 341 (2007) (The federal courts of appeals review federal sentences and set aside those they find unreasonable. ). Congruent with if not absolutely compelled by Booker, we have made it clear that  3742 allows us to review any sentence for reasonableness, whether within the Guidelines range or not. Dorcely, 454 F.3d at 374 (emphasis added); see also United States v. Olivares, 473 F.3d 1224, 1231 (D.C. Cir. 2006). Thus  3742 presents no problem for review under  1291.

Of course the proposition that an appellant can't avoid restrictions under a path of review designed for his case by proceeding along a more general avenue of review presupposes that the path avoided was actually available. In fact we have serious doubt as to whether a statute specifically directed at appeals of sentences ( 3742) also extends to those challenging the denial of a  3582(c)(2) reduction. Section 3742 provides for appeals of an otherwise final sentence. But a district court proceeding under  3582(c)(2) does not impose a new sentence in the usual sense. Dillon, 560 U.S. at 827. Indeed, reasoning that an order modifying a sentence is not, properly speaking, a sentence, at least one circuit has held that  3742 is inapplicable to any appeal from a sentence-reduction decision, thus leaving free rein for  1291. United States v. McAndrews, 12 F.3d 273, 277 (1st Cir. 1993) (Rule 35(b) reduction). But see, e.g., United States v. McDowell, 117 F.3d 974, 977 & n.3 (7th Cir. 1997) (reasoning that a granted reduction results in a new, modified sentence and so falls within  3742). Particularly since here the district court's denials of appellants' sentence-reduction motions resulted only in final ordersnot new sentences by any definitionit appears that at least the most obvious reading of  3742 renders it inapplicable. Cf. United States v. Washington, 759 F.3d 1175, 1180 (10th Cir. 2014) (finding jurisdiction under  1291 albeit based on different reasons); United States v. Colson, 573 F.3d 915, 916 (9th Cir. 2009) (reaching the same conclusion but providing little in the way of reasoning).

In any event, the availability of appeal under  3742 need not detain us, given the absence of any obstacle to review for reasonableness under  1291.

* * *

Thus we reach the merits, and start with a review of the evidence on which the appellants were convicted. The two were key members of a drug ring that brought massive amounts of Colombian cocaine into the District over the course of the 1980s. Led by Rayful Edmond III, the group sold the bulk of that cocaine in an open-air drug market in Northeast D.C. known as the Strip. See United States v. Edmond, 52 F.3d 1080, 1084-86 (D.C. Cir. 1995). Because Butler supplied the organization with the Colombian cocaine that fueled its growth, he occupied a position at the very top of the organization (essentially equal to Edmond himself). Once the drugs arrived in the District, Jones (along with a few others) managed their distributionoverseeing day-to-day drug dealing on the Strip and supervising the lieutenants (who supplied street-level dealers and collected the proceeds of their sales). As one of the gang's enforcers, Jones use[d] force  to keep rival drug distributors from dealing in their territory and to ensure that no one interfered with the daily operation  on the Strip.  Pre-Sentence Report  33 (Feb. 13, 1990). After a lengthy jury trial, eleven members of the gang (including Butler and Jones) were convicted of conspiracy to distribute cocaine. The trial judge calculated a range of 324 to 405 months under the Guidelines and sentenced Butler at the very top and Jones just below (393 months). (It is unclear why Jones's sentence was lower.) As we noted at the start, the reduced range applicable under Amendment 782 was 262 to 327 months.

In considering the appellants' motions for relief under  3852(c)(2), the district court, as directed by that section, looked to the factors set forth in section 3553(a) of Title 18. See Butler, 130 F. Supp. 3d at 321-26. These require consideration of both the particular defendant and the public interest. Specifically, the district court must consider the nature and circumstances of the offense and the history and characteristics of the defendant, as well as the need for the sentence imposed to reflect the seriousness of the offense, to promote respect for the law, [ ] to provide just punishment  [and] adequate deterrence to criminal conduct, [and] to protect the public from further crimes of the defendant. 18 U.S.C.  3553(a)(1)-(2). Section 3553(a) also requires the district court to consider the sentencing range established by the Guidelines, the need to avoid unwarranted sentencing disparities, and, where relevant, the need to provide restitution to any victims of the offense. Id.  3553(a)(4), (6), (7).

The district court attached great weight to the fact that [e]ach defendant was a key player in one of the largest drug conspiracies in the history of this city. Butler, 130 F. Supp. 3d at 321-22 (citing  3553(a)(1)-(2)(A)). It stressed the consequences of their activitieshow the Edmond gang enabled drug use and addiction on a scale that up until that point was unprecedented and largely unimaginable in this city and caused harm across our city [that] is immeasurable and in many cases irreversible. Id. at 322. Although acknowledging that appellants each had a model disciplinary record and had availed themselves of mentoring and educational opportunities while in prison, the court concluded that such factors do not outweigh the other, more commanding considerations, presumably the serious nature of their crimes. Id. at 323-24. Based on those findings, the district court denied the sentence-reduction motions, giving no relief.

Appellants claim that the denials of their sentence-reduction motions were substantively unreasonable for three reasons. First, they argue that because the newly-amended Guidelines already accounted for the nature and seriousness of their offenses (through the weight of the drugs involved and the various role-related enhancements imposed), the district court couldn't double-count those factors in denying their requested reductions. Particularly since the initial sentencing court concluded that these crimes fitted within the Guidelines (rather than requiring upward departures), appellants argue that it is unreasonable for the district court to now find that the same crimes are too serious for sentences within Amendment 782's newly-reduced range.

Indeed one might reasonably think that the district court's role under such a downshift in the Guidelines range would be simply to pick the spot in the new range corresponding to the spot chosen in the old one. But even apart from  3582(c)(2)'s direction to newly apply the  3553(a) factors, Amendment 788 clearly ruled out any such automatic shift by making November 1, 2015 the earliest date for a release accelerated by Amendment 782, in order to allow district courts to make individualized determination[s]  of whether [ ] sentence reduction[s] [are] appropriate. U.S.S.G. Supp. to App'x C, Amend. 788 at 87. Section 3582(c)(2)'s directive to consider the  3553(a) factors is in any event enough, and explains why we and other circuits have never adopted the view that a district court contemplating such a reduction motion is either required to apply the simple downshift notion or even to offer any special reasons refusing to do soso long as the court properly applies  3553(a). See Lafayette, 585 F.3d at 439; see also United States v. Jones, 836 F.3d 896, 899 (8th Cir. 2016); United States v. Dunn, 728 F.3d 1151, 1159-60 (9th Cir. 2013); United States v. Osborn, 679 F.3d 1193, 1196 (10th Cir. 2012). Just as in an ordinary initial sentencing, the Guidelines provide the starting point and the initial benchmark but are not the only consideration. Gall v. United States, 552 U.S. 38, 49 (2007).

Here the court considered the  3553(a) factors at length (including the nature and seriousness of the offenses) and decided that nothing less than the original sentences would be enough. See Butler, 130 F. Supp. 3d at 321-324. In contrast to run-of-the-mill drug gangs, Edmond's organization regularly procured and distributed hundreds of kilos of cocaine and cocaine base and enabled drug use and addiction on a scale that up until that point was unprecedented and largely unimaginable in this city. Id. at 322. Based on the appellants' critical roles in that unprecedented drug ring, the court found that these crimes required stiffer sentences than the amended guidelines provided and justified the risk of potential disparities. Id. at 322-24. While we (or another district court) might have reached a different conclusion were the decisions ours to make, we cannot say that the court acted unreasonably. See Gall, 552 U.S. at 51; see also United States v. Gardellini, 545 F.3d 1089, 1093 (D.C. Cir. 2008).

Second, appellants argue that the district court ignored the Sentencing Commission's own findings that middle-aged offenders who served lengthy sentences (as appellants have) pose little risk of recidivism and that the sentence reductions enabled by Amendment 782 would not increase the risk of recidivism. See Appellants' Br. at 25-26 (citing United States Sentencing Commission, Recidivism Among Offenders Receiving Retroactive Sentence Reductions: The 2007 Crack Cocaine Amendment (May 2014) and United States Sentencing Commission, Measuring Recidivism: The Criminal History Computation of the Federal Sentencing Guidelines (May 2004)). As appellants would have it, those studies in combination show there should be little concern over their recidivism. But statistics can only speak to the likely results for the average offender, whereas under  3553(a) the district court must consider every convicted person as an individual and every case as a unique study in the human failings that sometimes mitigate, sometimes magnify, the crime and the punishment to ensue. Koon v. United States, 518 U.S. 81, 113 (1996). Although appellants are now in their fifties, the district court concluded that they pose a significant threat to the community because they were critical to the design and execution of a dominant, enduring, and citywide drug operation and accordingly possess the skills, knowledge, and proven resolve necessary to procure and distribute illegal drugs on a massive scale. Butler, 130 F. Supp. 3d at 323. Again, we can't say that the district court's concerns were so baseless as to constitute reversible error.

Finally, appellants argue that the district court ran afoul of Bearden v. Georgia, 461 U.S. 660 (1983), by resting its denials of their reductions in part on their failure to make financial restitution to the victims of their drug gang. Of course, it would be highly questionable if the district court kept appellants in jail solely because they genuinely couldn't afford to pay restitutionand possibly unconstitutional. See United States v. Burgum, 633 F.3d 810, 815 (9th Cir. 2011) ([T]he Constitution prohibits imposition of a longer prison term based on the defendant's poverty ); United States v. Plate, 839 F.3d 950, 956 (11th Cir. 2016). But appellants' argument completely mischaracterizes what the district court did here. It made no reference whatever to financial repayments but instead considered the immeasurable and in many cases irreversible harm done to the community at large. Butler, 130 F. Supp. 3d at 322. Although the court made a linguistic misstep by framing its discussion of the harms that appellants' activities inflicted on the local population, wrongs concededly uncorrected, as a failure to provide restitution, id. at 322-23, it is plain from the context that it meant only to stress the magnitude of those harms, clearly part of the seriousness of the offense mentioned by  3553(a). Just as in United States v. Rangel, 697 F.3d 795, 804 (9th Cir. 2012), the district court here used an inapt label for its consideration of victim impact, and here as there it is no reason for reversal.

* * *

Accordingly, the judgment of the district court is

Affirmed.

Opinion for the Court filed by Senior Circuit Judge WILLIAMS.
Youre doing it wrong is a battle cry that regularly rings out throughout the Asatru and Heathen communities; among those who practice one of the various modern forms of Germanic polytheism. In a cluster of religions without central authority or dogma, there is a paradoxical and continual struggle to assert authority and dogma while positing ones own perspective as the proper one.

Especially in America, such assertions often turn to academia for authentication and justification. Perhaps surprisingly to those unfamiliar with the Heathen subcultures, practitioners sometimes adjust their religious beliefs to accord with academic works written by secular scholars who are openly hostile to modern Heathenry.

Whether seeking to justify their own beliefs or to critique the practices of others, Heathens often turn to academic writing on ancient Germanic paganism as the fundamental arbiter of modern religious authenticity.

Secular scholarship on ancient Germanic paganism is widely seen as the fundamental ground of authority on what Heathen religions are in the twenty-first century. This belief in the primacy of non-Heathen scholarship as bedrock of belief, practice, and theology can be found in multiple iterations of Heathenry. The deference to academia cuts across divisions within the wider Heathen community.

The scholars most often cited as sources for modern Heathenry do not focus on any of the Heathen religions that have been developed as living traditions since the founding of the Icelandic Asatruarfelagi (Asatru Fellowship) in 1972. Instead, they are mostly specialists in medieval Germanic (largely Old Norse) literature, medieval and pre-medieval Germanic religion, and archaeology of related areas and periods.

A Hostile Witness

The literature covered by the scholars is of the post-conversion period, given that the writing down of long texts (i.e., not short inscriptions on stone or wood) arrived in northern Europe with the coming of Christianity. Although poetry may have been composed by pagan poets and passed down via oral transmission, the major mythological poems were not codified in writing until over two hundred years after the conversion of Iceland. The Icelandic sagas, often mined by Heathens for descriptions of belief and practice, are works of historical fiction composed by Christians centuries after the events they purportedly record.

Some of the major scholars of this literature have made derogatory comments about modern Heathen religions. In John Lindows Norse Mythology: A Guide to the Gods, Heroes, Rituals, and Beliefs, the University of California, Berkeley professor of Old Norse and folklore explores the magical myths and legends of Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland and Viking-Age Greenland  outlining along they way the prehistoric tales and beliefs from these regions that have remained embedded in the imagination of the world. Although his subject is the mythology of the Nordic countries in pre-Renaissance times, he ends his introduction with snide remarks on Heathen religion in the postmodern era:

There was a revival of belief in the sir some years ago in Iceland, which seemed to have to do at least in part with tax breaks for organized religion, although partying is also important. That revival had its counterpart in Norway, where a group of students announced themselves to be believers in the aesir. In celebration, they drank some beer and sacrificed a sausage.

Belief in the sir is a translation of Asatru, the name of the Heathen religion founded in 1972 in Iceland. The establishment of the Asatruarfelagi in that year was the first major event in the worldwide revival, reconstruction, and reimagining of Germanic polytheism. Today, the organization continues to thrive, and Asatru is now the largest non-Christian religion in Iceland.

Lindows work was published in 2001, nearly thirty years after the Icelandic government officially recognized the Asatru religion. There were decades of media coverage by this time. In 2000, a major conflict occurred between the Asatru group and the National Church of Iceland over events surrounding the thousandth anniversary of the nations conversion; over one thousand people attended the Asatru event.

Given the seriousness of Lindows scholarship, it is odd that he chose to minimize the history and practice of the Asatru religion by referring to it as some strange thing in the past and making dismissive comments about tax breaks, partying, and sausage. It is difficult to imagine a Berkeley professor writing a guide to historical Judaism or Islam turning aside from their ancient sources to make a derogatory remark about todays Jews or Muslims in their published work.

We all pick and choose what we want to use from problematic sources. As adults, we are capable of noting the bias of authors as we evaluate their work. The important question here is this: why would Heathens privilege the work of an outsider who openly slanders their religion over the writing of those within their tradition? What other world religion sets up such a hierarchy?

Imagine practitioners of Judaism today basing their theology on works by non-Jewish archaeologists who include anti-Semitic statements in their texts. Imagine Muslims around the world privileging non-Muslim literature professors who take Islamophobic positions in their studies over books by their own writers. Imagine members of any minority faith fundamentally altering their spiritual beliefs to line up with theories of scholars who openly denigrate their religion.

Some Heathens may read the passage quoted above and say, Hes right! The Icelanders are doing it wrong. Only those of us who practice _________ are true Heathens. Such attitudes are similar to those of the Germanic or Celtic tribes who allied themselves with Rome in order to gain power over local rivals. Such willingness to celebrate public disparagement of Heathenry in order to move up in the pecking order is closer to rivalry in subcultural online communities than to thoughtful theological discourse. Even worse, the desire to declare ones own denomination superior to all others sometimes feels like fundamentalism.

Scholarship vs. Experience

None of this is to say that the study of scholarship is unimportant. In order to revive, reconstruct, and reimagine Germanic Paganism today, a deep engagement with the heritage of Heathen history is of great importance. The issue here is how practitioners of living religions engage with academic work on ancient sources as the primary authorities for todays belief and practice.

There is not an equal sign between modern Heathenry and pre-Christian Germanic polytheism of the Long-Ago Time. Academic work on one does not necessarily transfer onto the other. A medievalists theory regarding the portrayal of women in mythical poetry of medieval Iceland is interesting. Its fascinating. It can provide us with insights into ways in which male poets of that particular time and place portrayed idealized or stereotyped images of women on the mythic level. It can enrich our understanding of the changing status of women on the island during the age of conversion. But to use this sort of literary study to determine the nature of ones experience of deity in twenty-first-century America is a very strange thing.

There is a strong division drawn by many Heathens between secular scholarship on one hand and unverified personal gnosis (UPG) on the other. Academic writing by non-practitioners is portrayed as definitive. There may be arguments between scholars, and there may be changes in scholarly approaches over time. However, the ability to footnote ones belief and practice by citing a passage from a publication of a university press is widely valorized. Personal experience of the spiritual is seen as (at best) something one should keep to oneself and close relations or (at worst) a bunch of nonsense that deserves the harshest ridicule.

This portrayal of religious experience as something to be hidden and mocked is deeply problematic. Yes, if someone insisted to me that the only true Heathen belief is of Lokis son Narfi as the light of the world and savior of mankind, based upon a dream he had after eating an anchovy pizza before bed, I would smile and back toward the door. However, I would have a similar reaction if someone told me that she could undo a lifetime in modern society and alter her consciousness in order to erase all of her experiences and replace her worldview and causal belief system with that of a warrior in a first-century Germanic tribe, based upon her reading of journal articles downloaded from JSTOR.

The old mythological poems that survive are  if not written as antiquarian works  based on UPG. The old representations of mythical figures in art are  if not simply made to order  based on UPG. The religious objects found in religious settings are  if we accept the interpretations of archaeologists that they are indeed driven by religious belief  based on UPG. Religious experience cannot, by definition, be verified. The situation is made murkier by the fact that our theoretical understanding of past Heathenry is mediated by centuries-later (sometimes hostile) Christian writers and millennia-later (sometimes hostile) secular scholars.

To assert that the supposed beliefs of the past are somehow verified is to go against the very academic system that is cited for support. Interpretations and explanations of the textual and material sources change with the generations. Compare the old scholarly works insisting that every myth is really about the return of the sun to new scholarship insisting that the trolls of lore are simply racist representations of Sami people. The idea of changing ones religious belief and practice with every new theory published is simply bizarre and, in fact, not what is done; practitioners hold on to the scholarly works that they feel reflect something real and authentic, even if they have long been rejected by subsequent scholars.

Valorizing past religious experience as more valid than present ones fetishizes the past in a way that it is hard to imagine those living then would have themselves done. Literary and material evidence suggests that beliefs and practices changed greatly over time, even in a specific location. New ways arose, whether from outside pressure, internal dissent, spiritual experience, or any of a host of unknowable causes.

A Path Forward

The very distinction that is made between academic sources and UPG sets up a dichotomy that unfairly favors secular academia as authoritative in a way that denigrates actual religious experience. Those who champion scholarly authority parody anyone who disagrees with their own positions as hopelessly unintellectual and goofily mystical. Those who question the hegemony of outside scholarship and insist on their own personal experience fight a losing battle that is not helped by the prevalence of the most extreme visionary claims in the online world. Posting on social media that Loki loves me! This is know, for I drank an entire bottle of Tequila last night, he manifested as Heath Ledgers Joker in my shower, threw pistachios at me, and told me so, then calling anyone who questions your reliability a Nazi is not forwarding the cause of serious engagement with the numinous.

There is another option. We can respect academics for their diligent scholarship and learn from what they write without treating their work as cudgels with which to beat down those whose views dont line up with our individual and idiosyncratic positions within Heathenry. We can accept that religious experiences today are not different in kind from those of the past and resist lumping in anyone who speaks from the heart with the most outrageous elements of online testimonials.

A third way is clear. We can avoid the false opposition of academia-as-authority and experience-as-nonsense and turn to Heathen theology. We can create deep, thorough, passionate, quality work that combines the best of what we have learned from the secular academics with the most powerful of personal experiences. Rigor of study and depth of experience are not mutually exclusive.

We simply have to widen our horizons. To academic study and personal testimony we must add a thoughtful theology. By theology, I do not mean dogma. Perhaps it would be useful to call for theologies (plural), because what I am suggesting is a deep engagement by Heathens with both scholarship and experience that leads to a rich body of works that exist in fruitful dialogue with each other.

Many are already doing this and have been doing this. The massive two-volume edition of Our Troth brings together a wide variety of Heathen authors from a multiplicity of perspectives as it bridges the scholarly and the spiritual. Sacred Gifts by Kirk S. Thomas may be written by a Druid, but it is valued by Heathens and is a model of combining dedicated research of primary and secondary sources with an open discussion of personal religious experience and spiritual insight.

The creation and reception of texts like these suggests the possibility of overcoming factionalism and engaging with thinkers and writers within our own and related religious traditions. Perhaps we can break the habit of reflexively telling those whose version of Heathenry differs from our own that they are doing it wrong. Maybe we can respect those who work within Heathenry as living practitioners of a living religion and disagree with them as we evaluate their theologies rather than bury them with academic citations or deny the validity of their experiences.

If we do, together we can raise the tone of dialogue within Asatru and Heathenry as we develop modern Heathen theologies and build truly communicating communities.

* * *

The views and opinions expressed by our diverse panel of columnists and guest writers represent the many diverging perspectives held within the global Pagan, Heathen and polytheist communities, but do not necessarily reflect the views of The Wild Hunt Inc. or its management.
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Six Chinese think tanks were ranked among the top 100 in the world in a latest report released in Washington on Thursday.

The 2016 Global Go To Think Tank Index Report was published by the Think Tank and Civil Societies Program at the Lauder Institute of the University of Pennsylvania (TTCSP).

US-based think tanks took six of the top 10 positions, with the Brookings Institution continuing to be ranked on top. The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) ranked No 4 while the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace stood at fifth.

Rand Corp was seventh, while Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars took eighth place. The Council on Foreign Relations, headquartered in New York, took 10th place.

The China Institute of Contemporary International Relations (CICIR), at 33rd, was the highest ranked among China's think tanks. The Chinese Academy of Social Sciences was 38th, while the China Institute of International Studies (CIIS) was 40th.

Other Chinese think tanks that made into the top 100 include the Development Research Center of the State Council (DRC), the Shanghai Institute for International Studies (SIIS) and the Institute of International & Strategic Studies (IISS).

At 1,835, the US has more think tanks than any other nation. China has the second most, with 435 think tanks, while the United Kingdom was third with 288 think tanks.

China has witnessed a boom in think tanks in recent years after President Xi Jinping called to build a new type of think tank with Chinese characteristics.

James McGann, head of the University of Pennsylvania program, revealed on Thursday that he has zero budget and zero staff for the 10-year-old program, but hosts 50 interns each semester and has a partnership with think tanks around the world.

Edwin Feulner, founder and former president of The Heritage Foundation, has advised US President Donald Trump's campaign since last August. He said the names recommended by the Heritage Foundation and the Federalist Society have played a large role in Trump's team selection.

Jane Harman, president and CEO of Wilson Center, described the relationship among think tanks as "frenemies" (friendly enemies). "We compete, but we work together. There is a huge overlap of what we do," she said at the Thursday talk at CSIS on think tanks' role.

John Hamre, president and CEO of CSIS, believes that the role of think tanks has become more important because more people are coming to Washington for special interests.

"You need institutions that can objectively evaluate them against the context of public good," he said.

Contact the writer at chenweihua@chinadailyusa.com
"It is a great day today for all patients, doctors and the healthcare system as HouseCallsNow brings the excellence of Canadian healthcare to the comfort of your home."

TORONTO, ON, January 28, 2017 /24-7PressRelease/ -- New startup HouseCallsNow created today what may become a future trend in healthcare delivery. With the tap of the HouseCallsNow App, doctors were summoned by patients to their homes. A mother can now have a physician come to her home when her child is crying and has a fever without the need to run to an ER while scrambling to find a sitter for her other children.



"It is a great day today for all patients, doctors and the healthcare system as HouseCallsNow brings the excellence of Canadian healthcare to the comfort of your home. This will result in less ER crowding, timely medical attention of patients, early triaging, better health and reduced healthcare budgets." - Dr. Venkatraman Sadanand, Neurosurgeon, CEO, HouseCallsNow Inc.



As this trend grows, the impact on the healthcare system can be considerable. The chronic problem of overcrowding of ER can now be addressed with the convenience of house calls. The CDC reports that about 90% of the patients seen in the ER do not require admission to the hospital. So, doctors who should be promptly assessing the 10% of patients requiring admission are burdened by the 90% who do not. HouseCallsNow can enable doctors to be called to patients' homes, to render timely assessment and treatment.



In addition, HouseCallsNow makes an innovation in safety for providers. There is an SOS button in the app. Pressing this will send out predetermined text messages and live GPS location data to designated recipients.



HouseCallsNow helps particularly vulnerable patient populations such as the elderly or patients with disabilities who are unable to go to the ER and instead let diseases take their course at home. It is also not easy for a single parent with many children to rush to the ER in the late hours of the night. All these are barriers to healthcare access. Such barriers to access healthcare can make population health worse resulting in increased healthcare budgets and sicker population in the long run. HouseCallsNow can service these patients by safely and conveniently bringing the doctor or healthcare provider to patients' homes.



To quote the first patient who used the App to call a doctor to his home, "The HouseCalls App is very user friendly. I had a great experience in getting the care I needed, when I needed it at my home. I would highly recommend this App to anyone."



As we usher the 21st century, we must be able to provide healthcare when it is most needed, where it is most needed. Healthcare must leverage current technologies to improve population health and quality of life.



With the tap of an app, HouseCallsNow can also provide other services to the comfort of an individual's home using the same technology used in healthcare delivery.



All providers are background checked for criminal records, employment history, training, certifications and terrorism check. Financial transactions are handled securely through PayPal. All non-healthcare providers as well as clients are rated and reviewed after verified completion of transaction.



Additional information is available at https://www.housecallsnow.com



New startup HouseCallsNow Inc. delivers services directly to your home using a secure mobile App.



Services include healthcare, home care, education, personal care and pet care. Service providers can now be summoned with a simple tap of a location aware app.



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Jan 28, 2017 | By Tess

11-year-old Jordan Reeves, who last year made the world a bit jollier with her 3D printed, glitter-shooting prosthetic arm, has become a source of inspiration for many. The young and remarkably ambitious girl, who was born without most of her left arm (it stops just above the elbow), has been showing off her 3D printed glitter prosthetic all around the U.S. for the past several months, was presented with Disneys Dream Big, Princess award, and was given a 3D printer courtesy of Autodesk and Dremel.

Not only is she receiving recognition, however, but Reeves has continued her steadfast work and is creating more 3D printed prosthetic accessories and assistive tools. Her latest project, for instance, is working on developing a device that combines a medical-grade prosthetic arm with 3D printed, changeable attachments. Though decidedly less sparkly than her first make, the hybrid prosthetic could allow for a variety of 3D printed attachments (like a hand or a pirate hook). Jordan is developing the 3D printed prosthesis with the help of her prosthetist and her Autodesk mentor Sam Hobish.

While many 3D printable prosthetic hand models do already exist, Reeves is one of many people who cannot use them, mainly because they mostly rely on wrist or elbow mobility, which she does not have. As Jordans mother Jen Reeves told Fast Company, She came with the challenge because she and Sam were trying to figure out a way to use those standard 3D printed hands, and it got pretty aggravating. She realized that it was not possible with any of the current 3D-printed design concepts, since she doesn't have an elbow."

Jordan with her 3D printed glitter-shooting prosthetic

Fortunately, with the help of her long time prosthetist, David Rotter, the clinical director of prosthetics for Chicago-based Scheck & Siress, Jordan conceived of a traditional prosthetic arm with a connection at the wrist that can accommodate 3D printed extensions. To move and control the 3D printed hand, the user can simply move their shoulder to trigger a string that connects the 3D printed extension to a shoulder harness.

Jordan recently received her new prosthetic arm from Rotter, which came with a standard prosthetic hook, as well as a pirate hook. To connect her own 3D printed attachments to the arm, Jordan simply has to install a compatible screw mechanism. The 11-year-old demonstrated her new prosthetic arm at Kid Inventors Day in New York City last Tuesday.

"Where it gets fun is the pieces that can be made to put on the end of her prosthesis," commented Rotter. "That's really where I think we're going to have a good interaction between what I've made, what Jordan can conceptualize, and what perhaps Sam can help her produce, to see if this is something that's usable for her and provides her with sufficient utility.

Still, Rotter believes there is a long way to go before fully 3D printed prosthetics will be viable at a professional level. Despite his reservations, however, he does see potential in combining medical prosthetics with 3D printed, DIY-style ones, like Jordan has. Additionally, as 3D printed prosthetic organizations such as e-NABLE continue to advance and improve upon 3D printed hand models, we can already see the gap between medical and 3D printed prosthetic devices shrinking.

For instance, Hobish, Jordans mentor and Autodesk employee, has been working with the Enable Community Foundation to develop a new software program called LimbForge that is capable of automatically scaling the size of 3D printed hand models based on user measurements. He says, It does incorporate a lot of traditional prosthetics techniques when it comes to how we take the measurements and how we're working with the patients.

One of the main appeals of 3D printing prosthetics is, of course, accessibility. While in prosperous nations people usually have insurance to help cover medical costs, in parts of the world where assistive devices are most neededsay in disaster stricken Haitithey are expensive and difficult to come by. 3D printing could help to change this.

And while Jordan may still be a ways off from making hands for people across the world, she is determined to keep working and to keep inventing new helpful tools for herself and others. For instance, the 11-year-old is reportedly planning on making a portable tool that could help people with disabilities to use paper-towel dispensers more easily. At the same time as inventing, the young innovator will continue to advocate for children like herself, and will promote inclusiveness for all.

Posted in 3D Printing Application

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Isabella jones wrote at 1/30/2017 5:02:33 AM:This invention is totally AWESOME!!!! I wanna do something like this




Monica Ali in The New York Times:

Transit is a novel that all but dispenses with plot. A recently divorced novelist buys a dilapidated house in London, and has conversations with builders, neighbors, a hairdresser, a friend. She appears at a literary festival where she brings something to read aloud (we learn no more), teaches, goes on a date and attends a disastrous dinner party. It is the second novel of a trilogy that began with Outline, in which Rachel Cusks project appears to be nothing less than the reinvention of the form itself. Once you have suffered sufficiently, she told an interviewer after the publication of Aftermath, her memoir about the demise of her marriage, the idea of making up John and Jane and having them do things together seems utterly ridiculous. What, then, is to be done? How is the novel to be written? Cusks answer is to eliminate John and Jane in favor of an altogether different narrative structure, in which a shadowy narrator, Faye  named only once in each novel  becomes a conduit for multiple stories. These stories are not, as it were, played out John-and-Jane style; they do not unfold before us, nor are they  by and large  composed through dialogue. Instead they are delivered by Faye, who sums up what often amounts to the story of a life. Thus a chance encounter with an ex-boyfriend, Gerard, produces a tale of marriage, fatherhood, and the way life can be simultaneously ever changing and stuck in a rut. Superficially, for him at least the facts of that life were unchanged since the days I had known him: he lived in the same flat, had kept the same friends, went to the same places. The difference, Faye notes, was that his wife and daughter were with him: They constituted a kind of audience. Pavel, a Polish builder, yields a story about the house he built for himself back home, and the hardships of his new life in London. He rented a bedsit near Wembley Stadium, in a building full of other bedsits occupied by people he didnt know. In the first week, someone had broken in and stolen all his tools.

It is a risky business, this summing up. Show, dont tell, say the creative writing manuals. Cusk has torn up the rule book, and in the process created a work of stunning beauty, deep insight and great originality. Key to this originality is the novel approach to building a character. The narrator of Outline was described by critics as a cipher, self-effacing, numbly inert, or a faint image. In Transit, Faye is beginning to emerge from the numbness and passivity that followed the death of her marriage. As she tells the real estate agent, I would want what everyone else wanted, even if I couldnt attain it.

More here.
Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park invites the public to participate in a 60-minute program on Feb. 11, beginning at 2 p.m. at the Chickamauga Battlefield Visitor Center. This program will caravan to Tour Stop #5, then hike to Lillys battery of artillery in Viniard Field.

Prior to the American Civil War, Eli Lilly found himself working as a pharmacist, inventing medicines that would help provide good health for the American public.

Lilly was an innovator when it came to producing drugs that would help people. During the war, he found himself under the command of Col. J.T. Wilder, where he used that same innovation to put together an artillery battery like no other. On September 19, 1863, his battery saw fierce fighting in Viniard field during the Battle of Chickamauga. This same innovation and drive followed Lilly after the war, back into his pharmaceutical business. Today, we still see that innovation in the business he founded, and we live under the ideas that Lilly put forth and the American government adopted.

As a reminder, comfortable, supportive footwear, chairs, appropriate clothing for the weather and water are recommended for this program.



For more information about programs at Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, contact the Chickamauga Battlefield Visitor Center at (706) 866-9241, the Lookout Mountain Battlefield Visitor Center at 423 821-7786, or visit the parks website at www.nps.gov/chch.
Northern football players, cheerleaders from beyond the U.S.

Two Northern football players and two cheerleaders have common ground with hometowns outside the U.S.
Renowned Moroccan tourism agency, Nature Dream, shows the world the best of Morocco with amazing day and desert tours

Nature Dream, a tourism agency in Morocco has been showing travelers and tourists the best of Morocco with awesome tour packages. Nature Dream organizes Morocco tours that range from Private Day Trip and Excursions to Private Sahara Desert Tours and even Customized Tours Trekking.

The tours are designed to take off from the different historical cities like Fes, Casablanca, Ouarzazate, Agadir, and Marrakech. The Morocco day tours take travelers and tourists to different historical sites and cities in the North American countries, with popular sites like the Souks of Marrakech, Chegaga, and the High Atlas in Azilal Province.

Persons looking to travel to Morroco to spend some time with family and friends are bound to get the best of Morocco, with a memorable and exciting experience with Nature Dream and the different tour packages that come with professional and experienced tour guides.

Popular tourists locations to discover and visit in addition to the places visited during the Morocco desert tours include Draa Valley, Dades Gorges, Mhamid Dunes, Chegaga Dunes, Merzouga Dunes, Skoura Palmery, Roses Valley, and Todra Gorges. The sites are historic and fun, with guides taking travelers through the different places and intimating them on the significance of each site.

In addition to offering quality, affordable, and exciting tour packages, Nature Dream also helps with travel plans. Travelers can get information and tips regarding different issues regarding preparation for their trip. Such assistances include accommodation issues, visa, travel insurance, and weather updates.

Nature Dream turns moments into memories, taking charge of the holiday from the beginning to the end.

About Nature Dream

Nature Dream is a tour agency founded in 1996 by two brothers  Mohamed and Houssine Mhidi. Headquartered in Ouarzazate, Nature Dream comprises of a team of experienced, fun, and ready-to-assist personnel and exciting tour packages to thrill travelers and tourists in Morocco.

Comprising of experienced camel drivers, excellent cooks, and tour guides, Nature Dream is born out of the adventurous nature of the brothers and the desire to show the world the rich history and beauty of Morocco and the exciting sites, sounds, and people of Morocco.

Media Contact

Company Name: NATURE DREAM

Contact Person: Lisa J.

Email: reservationnaturedream@gmail.com

Phone: 00 212 6 61 19 47 85

Address:110 Mohammed V Avenue

City: Ouarzazate

Country: Morocco

Website: http://www.vacationtomorocco.com/
Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, in partnership with the Bessie Smith Cultural Center, invites the public to participate in a free, 45-minute program at the Bessie Smith Cultural Center, 200 East Martin Luther King Boulevard, Chattanooga, Tn. 37403, on Monday, Feb. 13. The doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the formal program begins at 6 p.m. This program will focus on abolitionists in the Union Army of the Cumberland during the Chickamauga and Chattanooga Campaigns.

In many cases, soldiers found themselves marching off to war, as Private Chauncey Welton of the 103rd Ohio suggested, in order to fight for and vindicate the supremacy of the Constitution. Not all were staunch abolitionists, looking to eradicate the institution of slavery. However, as many US soldiers tramped through middle Tennessee, headed toward Chattanooga, they became personally acquainted with the peculiar institution. As soldiers interacted with enslaved African Americans, some of their mindsets began to change, as indicated by Lieutenant Alfred Pirtle, when he shared in a letter home that as the unfolding events in which he was involved rapidly made practical abolitionists of every soldier. For whatever reason soldiers donned the blue uniform of the US Army at the onset of hostility, by wars end, they removed the shackles of slavery from across the land. This program will explore stories of these blossoming abolitionists found within the Army of the Cumberland.



For more information about programs at Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, contact the Chickamauga Battlefield Visitor Center at 706 866-9241, the Lookout Mountain Battlefield Visitor Center at 423 821-7786, or visit the parks website at www.nps.gov/chch.


In Algeria, falling energy revenue without a viable replacement risks riots in 2017. Violent riots erupted in the northern Algerian city of Bejaia on January 2, following the introduction of the national budget set by the 2017 Finance Law on the first day of the new year. The events started with a strike by the citys shopkeepers in protest against the laws tax increases and reduction of key subsidies, with other members of the public joining the demonstration. The protest then descended into rioting after the crowd came into confrontation with local security forces, and clashes continued into the early hours of the morning.

Videos uploaded to social media show the police firing tear gas at protesters, and members of the crowd setting fire to a bus, a police van and various local shops. The premises of several foreign businessesincluding a branch of BNP Paribaswere wrecked, while some buildings were looted. Around 100 protesters were arrested, and others hospitalized by rubber bullets fired by police.

The violence in Bejaia has been among the most disruptive protests to occur in Algeria since the 2011 riots in Algiers, which took place during the Arab Spring revolts. The incident highlights the risk for the Algerian government from altering its substantial subsidy system, which reduces the price of fuel, electricity, food and other essentials for the public. The 2017 budget also increases value added tax, income tax, property tax and tobacco tax, which Algerians have been vocal in opposing over recent months.

Labor unions have held a series of related anti-austerity demonstrations and strikes since October 2016particularly in opposition to the governments planned extension of the age at which employees can retirethough the events in Bejaia have been the first sign of this unrest turning into serious violence.

Like other countries in the Middle East and North Africa, Algerias political and economic model relies heavily on a high level of state spending to reduce the prospect of instability. In April 2016, Abdelatif Benachenhou, an ex-finance minister and former close advisor to President Abdelaziz Bouteflika, told Reuters he estimated that Algeria allocated around 22% of the countrys gross domestic product (GDP) to its system of social welfare and subsidies. This system, Benachenhou believed, was unsustainable even in times of higher state revenues, due to steady increases in the prices and volumes of materials consumed.

Over the past two years, there has been ongoing debate in Algeria about the need to alter this economic model as the governments revenues from energy sales have plummeted. After years of oil being priced at over $100 per barrel, this dropped sharply from late 2014, resulting in a corresponding drop in Algerias large accumulated reserves of foreign currency. As oil remained at an average of around $50 or less throughout 2015-16, Algerias reserves fell from a high of over $190 billion in 2013 to $114 billion by the end of 2016.

The scale of this deficit has forced government attempts to drastically reduce public spending, which it did by 9% in 2016, followed by the current years reduction of 14%.

Unsurprisingly, Algeria has not been the only regional state facing a large budget deficit and dwindling currency reserves since 2014. In April 2016, the Saudi government unveiled a 15-year roadmap to reforming its economy, titled Vision 2030, which stemmed from the unbridgeable gap between the states forecast oil income and its rate of social spending until that point.

However, unlike Saudi Arabia, which has cast a restructuring toward the private sector as a positive opportunity for its nationals, Algeria has provided few concrete suggestions as to what the old, unsustainable economic order should be replaced with. Rather, the government has sharply cut public spending without focusing on a real strategy to replace it, leaving Algerians with few ideas or aspirations regarding where the reforms may lead.

This is resulting in heightened anxieties and frustration among the public, and there is a strong possibility of further violent and disruptive protests over the year ahead.

Over the past 18 months, most notable protest action in Algeria has been held in the countrys northern provinces, remote from the gas extraction sites in the southern deserts. This contrasts with early 2015, when the southern towns of In Salah and Ouargla were the locus of larger-scale demonstrations, sometimes featuring thousands of participants. While Algerian security forces will prioritize the protection of critical national infrastructure in the event of future protests, the risk remains that public frustrations will lead to further destruction of local businesses, and even hinder Algerias prospects for attracting highly-needed private investment.

It is notable that a BNP Paribas branch was attacked during this months protests in Bejaiait is possible that other French or Western businesses will be specifically targeted if unrest persists.

donate to nonprofit media organizationsThe one sector in which Algerias spending is being maintained is its defense budget, which will be allotted $10 billion in 2017, approximately the same as the previous year. This will be viewed with relief among domestic and international observers, who see Algeria as a relative haven of security alongside neighbors Libya and Mali, thanks to increased Algerian efforts in 2016 to militarize its borders.

Algerias maintaining of this security beyond 2017, however, will be dependent upon its ability to sustain its exceptionally high rate of military spending, particularly given the inherent challenges of the countrys vast desert geography. If the government is not more pro-active in finding an economic infrastructure to replace high energy rents, it is possible that we will see a reduction in both security from terrorism and domestic political stability over the longer term.

The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Fair Observers editorial policy.
African Event: King Mohammed VI departed to Ethiopia to Take Part in the AU Summit

King Mohammed VI left on Friday afternoon the Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport heading to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.

King Mohammed VI is expected to attend the African Union (AU) summit, scheduled to take place on January 30 and 31, in Ethiopias capital, Addis Ababa.

Moroccos appointed Head of Government, Abdelilah Benkirane, said earlier this month that the King will travel to Addis Ababa, for the AU summit to stand up for Moroccos return to the Pan-African organization.

King Mohammed VI is accompanied by Prince Moulay Ismail and an official delegation consisted of his advisor, Fouad Ali El Himma, Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Minister Salaheddine Mezouar, Delegate to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nasser Bourita, and a number of dignitaries.

Earlier this week, Morocco officially notified the countries constituting the Commission of the AU of this development.

During the 30th regular session of the AU Executive council, held Thursday in Addis Ababa, four countries reaffirmed their support for the return of Morocco to the AU.

Morocco World News reported on Wednesday that Morocco had officially notified the countries constituting the Commission of the AU of this development.

Earlier this month, during a meeting of the House of Representatives committee, Moroccos Foreign Affairs and Cooperation minister, Salaheddine Mezouar, said that, 40 countries are supporting Moroccos return to the AU.
Thousands of people lined the streets of Gambias capital on Thursday to welcome home the new President days after authoritarian leader Yahya Jammeh fled into exile under pressure from regional forces.

A new page in Gambian history is being turned, said Mohamed Ibn Chambas, U.N. Special Representative for West Africa and the Sahel, who helped negotiate Jammehs exit, shortly before accompanying Barrow to Banjul.

Barrows surprise ballot box victory and the determination of Western and African countries to uphold it is being celebrated as a moment of democratic hope for Africa.
Morocco on its road back to AU: the successful story

Morocco is set to rejoin the African Union (AU) during the 28th African summit scheduled for Jan. 30 to Jan. 31 in Addis-Ababa, after leaving the pan African organization three decades ago.

In 1984, Morocco decided to withdraw from the Organization of African Unity, which later became the AU, over the admission of the virtual state Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) as a member of the organization.

SADR , supported, hosted and backed by Algeria, claims sovereignty over the whole Western Sahara territory, which Morocco claims as its a part of it integral territory.

For over three decades, Morocco has refused to be part of the organization, but recently Rabat has changed its policing, making the readmission to the AU on the top of its agenda.

In July 2016, King Mohammed VI of Morocco sent a message to the 27th AU summit in Kigali, Rwanda, saying that his country should not remain outside its African institutional family, and it should regain its natural, rightful place within the AU.

The king however, explained the reasons for returning to the pan African organization.

He mentioned the repeated call of many African friends of the kingdom as well as a thorough reflection, which concluded that when a body is sick, it is treated more effectively from the inside than from the outside.

He also stressed that from within, Morocco will contribute to making the AU a more robust organization, one that is both proud of its credibility and relieved of the trappings of an obsolete era.

Two months after the kings message to the African leaders, the Cherifian kingdom formally submitted a request to re-join the continental body in September.

The request was submitted after Morocco received the support of a group of 28 AU member states, representing over the majority of the 54 AU member states required for admission.

Following this request, the Moroccan king visited numerous African countries, including some that Rabat has long regarded as hostile to its territorial unity.

Consequently, Morocco raised the total of the supporters to 40 as was announced by its Foreign Minister Salaheddine Mezouar during a parliamentary session to review the constitutive act of AU a week earlier.

Recently, both houses of the Moroccan parliament unanimously adopted the constitutive act of AU, its additional protocol and the bill on the approval of the act, preparing the ground for the Kingdoms return to the AU.

On Jan. 10, the council of ministers, which is chaired by the king, approved the draft texts.

While Morocco has not being a part of AU yet, it has developed strong ties with many countries in the continent, particularly in West and Central Africa.

Report says Morocco is already the top investor in West Africa and the second largest African investor in the continent.

In addition, Moroccan firms have strong holds in the many African markets, especially those related to banking, insurance, air transport, food security, renewable energy, telecommunications and housing.

According to official statistics from the countrys economy and finance ministry, over the decade ending in 2016, Moroccos investment in sub-Saharan Africa represented 85 per cent of its overall foreign direct investment stocks.

In addition to economic relations, Morocco has strong cooperation with many African countries, particularly in the fields of security, peacekeeping operations and managing religious affairs.

Morocco looks ahead to expand its influence in the continent and also to join hands with member states to meet the countless challenges facing the continent, through rejoining of the AU.
Chattanooga State Community Colleges Career Services and Counseling Center will hold its annual Career Fair on Thursday, March 23, in the gymnasium between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Chattanooga State will welcome more than 75 vendors, which will be on hand to discuss employment opportunities with their company.

Business and industry employers representing the areas of engineering, banking, local government, communications, broadcasting, tourism and transportation are just a sample of the many employers expected at the event.

For more information call the office of Career Services and Counseling at 423 697-4421 or email careers@chattanoogastate.edu.
The Master and head of Qadiriya Butchichiya , one of Moroccos biggest Sufi orders, with tens of thousands of followers at home and abroad, died Wednesday aged 95, an official and local media said.

Sheikh Sidi Hamza al-Qadiri al-Boutchichi had been the spiritual leader of the Qadiriya Boutchichiya order since 1972.

He died in the northwestern city of Oujda and was to be buried in the nearby town of Madagh where he was born and his order is based, local media reported.

Seen as a living master by his followers and famed for his wisdom and kindness, he was believed to be descended from the Prophet Mohammed and belonged to a long line of Sufi leaders.

Every year hundreds of thousands of pilgrims came from across the world to Madagh to celebrate Mawlid, the Prophet Mohammeds birthday, and hear the ageing Sufi leader preach.

Before he died, he designated his eldest son, Sidi Jamal, to succeed him, a spokesman for the brotherhood told the local press.
King Mohammed VI appointed General Abdel Fattah Warraq as Inspector General of the Royal Armed Forces, according to a royal statement released Tuesday.

Warraq will succeed General Boushoaib Arroub, who will be leaving the position under uncertain circumstances.

The monarch met with the new leader at the palace in Casablanca Tuesday morning, the release said.

General Abdel Fattah Warraq was chosen to assume this position for his interpersonal and professional qualities, as well as the selflessness and loyalty he has demonstrated while fulfilling the responsibilities of the various military positions he has been entrusted with, the palace said.

Gen. Arroub had been the subject of rumors circulated by a number of media outlets last May, which said the leader had died due to illness in a military hospital in Rabat. A few weeks later, the rumors dissipated when the general was spotted participating in official activities around the country.

Gen. Arroub, born in the medium-sized city of Khouribga, began his tenure as Inspector General on June 13th, 2014, at the appointment of King Mohammed VI, who serves as Commander-in-Chief of Moroccos armed forces. He succeeded General Abdelaziz Bennani when he took over the key position.
BJP always irritated dominating Uddhav Thackeray after the demise of the Shiv Sena supremo Bala Saheb Thackeray. Uddhav was never so aggressive like his father, and Modi waves actually changed the attitude of the BJP. Finally, he has snapped its 25-year-old ties with the BJP for upcoming urban body polls in Maharashtra. The Shiv Sena has made it clear that there will be no understanding with the BJP for the civic polls. Earlier, Shiv Sena accused BJP of back-stabbing. Uddhav Thackeray said that Shiv Sena wasted those years by sticking with the BJP. The Shiv Sena-BJP alliance broke over seat-sharing arrangement. The BJP is said to have rejected the Shiv Senas offer of 60 seats for the BMC polls.

But there is a possibility that Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena may enter into an alliance with Raj Thackeray-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) for the upcoming local body polls, as BJP has already switched its loyalties to NCP. Sena and MNS are believed to be in talks over a formal alliance for the civic polls. Shiv Sena and MNS leaders are in talks over a seat-sharing alliance. But, the talks are said to be in initial stage.

The MNS has conveyed its desire of contesting 50 seats for the BMC polls. The BMC house has 227 seats and the two parties are in discussion over 177-50 formulas where Shiv Sena may field 177 candidates while MNS will put up candidates on 50 seats. However, the two parties are not in negotiation for only BMC polls. If the alliance is stitched up between Shiv Sena and MNS, they will cover municipal polls in Nasik, Pune and Thane also. The MNS did not do well in the last assembly elections, when it secured only one seat out of 288. In the last BMC polls, the MNS won 27 seats while Shiv Sena won 77. The BJP has 31 corporators in the BMC. Shiv Sena and MNS had discussed a possible tie up for the civic polls last year also but no formal announcement could be made.

Interestingly, a day ago MNS had put up posters of Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray in Dadar. The Shiv Sena had officially objected to the use of Bal Thackerays photograph by the MNS. But, now the two parties are in serious negotiation. The civic polls will be held in Maharashtra on February 21 and votes will be counted on February 23.

It is unlikely that Thackeray would have taken the decision in a huff. He must have weighed the pros and cons before severing Shiv Senas age-old ties with BJP. After deciding to go it alone in civic polls in Maharashtra, Shiv Sena on Saturday unleashed a stinging attack on BJP, Sena accused the BJP of going out of the way to flaunt its secular credentials and said it would not even hesitate to dub Chhatrapati Shivaji and Lokmanya Tilak as anti-nationals to serve its purpose. Though Shiv Sena has parted ways with BJP in the forthcoming elections to the municipal corporations and district panchayats, the two parties are still in alliance at two other levels- Assembly and Parliament. The number of seats won by Shiv Sena has been continuously decreasing over the years. Conversely, BJP has been improving its performance with each passing election.

BJP and Shiv Sena entered into alliance for the first time in 1989. Since then, Shiv Sena has won on more number of seats than BJP in every Assembly election except in 2014. However, even though BJP has bagged lesser number of seats, its performance has been better than Shiv Sena.

BJPs strike rate has always been better than that of Shiv Sena. Despite contesting on lesser number of seats, BJP has not remained far behind Shiv Sena in registering victory on the number of seats.In the 2014 State polls, the two parties contested separately and fielded candidates against each other. While BJP won 122 seats, Shiv Sena bagged 63 of the 288 seats. For the first time ever, BJP contested separately and it won far more number of seats than its alliance partner. Though BJP fell short of majority, Shiv Sena offered support to run a coalition government.

In 1966, Bal Thackeray, founded the Shiv Sena as a political organisation. The Shiv Sena especially attracted a large number of unemployed Marathi youth, who were attracted by Thackerays charged anti-migrant oratory. Shiv Sena cadres became involved in various attacks against the South Indian communities, vandalizing South Indian restaurants and pressuring employers to hire Marathis. The Sena started placing more weight on the Hindutva ideology in the 1970s as the sons of the soil cause was weakening. The party has been in coalition with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for Lok Sabha as well as Maharashtra Assembly since 1989. The two formed a government in Maharashtra between 1995-1999. The Sena was the opposition party in the state along with the BJP from 1999 to 2014. However, 25 years old alliance of Sena and BJP was broken in 2014 Maharashtra Assembly elections over seat sharing issue and both contested elections independently. After the BJP became largest party in the 2014 Assembly elections, Sena declared that it would play the role of opposition but, after further negotiations, agreed to join the government in Maharashtra. The Shiv Sena-BJP combine governs the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation. Traditionally the main strongholds of Shiv Sena have been Mumbai and the Konkan coastal areas. However, in the 2004 Lok Sabha elections the result was reversed. The Shiv Sena made inroads in the interior parts of the state, while suffering losses in Mumbai. Since 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the relations between two parties stressed to an extent of getting further nastiest.
By Mark Blaxill

Dan Olmsteds Weekly Wrap, his regular Saturday column, was one of my favorite weekend pleasures. Dans death last weekend makes his January 21st version his last. So in his honor, I spent much of this week connecting with a few folks who knew him well in order to write a tribute to him in this space. A final wrap.

Dan was born and raised in Danville Illinois, started his career there and maintained close ties to friends and family in the region. His sister Sallie died last year but his other sister Rosie still lives in Wilmette. She has long been a fierce supporter of Dans work. Rosie knew from an early age that Dan was a uniquely brilliant and talented journalist. She was a great advocate for the books we wrote together and especially pleasedDan told me-- that in The Age of Autism, I insisted that we put Dans name first on the marquee! (Dan and I actually competed to be the second author and eventually decided to take turns).

Dan was a journalist from very early in life. While in high school he wrote a column, High Times (the high stands for high school, nothing illegal!), for Danvilles local newspaper The Commercial News. His talent was apparent early.

Dan and I were classmates at Danville High School, wrote Bina Connelly on the comments section underneath his obituary. Even then, we knew he would leave a mark, make a difference. He was kind, thoughtful, intelligent, passionate. I am humbled to have known him. Dans friend of 40 years, Melissa Merli, tells me he is still in touch with his high school English teacher, who plans to attend his memorial service.

A career in journalism was on Dans radar from the very beginning. An English degree at Yale (class of 1974) separated his stints at The Commercial News, a Gannett paper. From there he went to The Democrat and Chronicle, Gannetts flagship paper in Rochester, New York. On the Gannett fast track, Dan went on to be a founding editor of USA Today in 1982 and its 1984 spinoff, USA Weekend, where he worked for 15 years. Following a brief and abortive stint at an internet start-up in 1999, Dan moved over to United Press International in 2000. Laid off in 2007 after a series of cutbacks at UPI, he moved on to launch the Age of Autism, the daily web newspaper of the autism epidemic.

In speaking with Dans colleagues during that 40-plus year journey, Ive heard an amazing and consistent portrait of a man who was, as his longtime partner and husband Mark Millett puts it, always passionate about journalism and his work. Melissa Merli was a colleague in the 1970s at The Commercial News and remembers that Dan was widely liked and respected. Everyone adored him at The Commercial News. That adoration extended to a number of the female reporters there, including Melissa. I had a crush on him, confided Melissa, and at one point, Dan took me aside and told me he was gay, but that we could still be good friends! Theyve been close and constant friends ever since.

Melissa described Dan as a gifted investigative reporter from the outset. One investigation stood out: an expose of corruption in the local police force, where a gang of police officers were running a drug store burglary operation. A grand jury was convened; Dan was sued for libel and won. Melissa later heard from a local official that theres one reporter there that everyones afraid of and thats Dan Olmsted.

Melissa describes a man that many came to know and love. Dan had a finely tuned sense of justice and compassion for others. Hes one of the most honest people I know. I can honestly say that I have no negative memories of Dan. He was one of a kind.

We can all thank the dot.com crash for reawakening Dans passion for investigative journalism. While at USA Today and USA Weekend, he focused on lighter fare. But after landing at the once proud UPI wire service --then owned by the Unification Church (aka the Moonies), a step down in prestige led to a step up in freedom and investigative autonomy. Dan teamed up there with a young reporter named Mark Benjamin and together they embarked on a project that hit the big time: an investigation of the negative side effects of an anti-malaria drug called mefloquine. Or, as it was marketed by Roche Pharmaceuticals, Lariam.

The Lariam project was investigative reporting at its most pure, Mark told me. It was a case of Dan deciding that we were going to take really damaging, but solid information on a bad drug and go up against one of the most powerful and deep-pocketed companies in the world, Roche. And it was one that had the Army and the CDC, quite literally, in its pocket.

Lariam was widely used at the time in the Army and the Peace Corp and although effective at preventing malaria, in a subset of recipients it was associated with cases of hallucinations, paranoia, suicidal thoughts, psychoses and even homicide. According to an August 11, 2016 article in Military Times. Mefloquine was implicated in a series of murder-suicides at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, in 2002, and media reports also tied it to an uptick in military suicides in 2003.

Dan and Mark were faced with sharp initial resistance, but their work eventually had a huge impact. According to Military Times, Once the U.S. military's malaria prophylactic of choice, favored for its once-a-week dosage regimen, mefloquine was designated the drug of last resort in 2013 by the Defense Department after the Food and Drug Administration slapped a boxed warning on its label, noting it can cause permanent psychiatric and neurological side effects. Prescriptions plummeted from 50,000 in 2003 to only 216 in 2015. Thats not low enough for some. Dr. Remington Nevin, another friend of Dan, argued that any distribution of Lariam is too much. This new finding should motivate the U.S. military to consider further revising its mefloquine policy to ban use of the drug altogether.

Their work had many positive and unexpected ripple effects. Mark and Dan were turned into a composite character, Sherm Hempell, on a Law and Order: SVU episode, which told a story of violence and murder in two Afghanistan war veterans that had taken an anti-malarial drug, Quinium. Happily, the good guys won and the Army cover-up was exposed. More notably, in a real life case that wasnt ripped from the headlines Dan and Mark quite literally saved the life of the first soldier since the Vietnam War charged with cowardice, an offense that carries the death penalty. The Army soldier, Andrew Pogany, was put on trial but ultimately the Army dropped the case when it became clear that his cowardice was simply an adverse reaction to Lariam. Mark joked that Dan wrote one of the best headlines ever for their article, Army Surrenders to Coward Soldier.

Ive never seen anyone else like Dan Olmsted in our business, before or since, Mark claimed. You can hold him up against any of the all-time great investigative journalists and he deserves a place right alongside them. What made him so good? There were so many things. He was just smarter than anyone else. He worked harder and once he knew he was right, he just never gave up. He would just never stop.

It was their glimpse into the inner workings of the CDC and its preferred programs that brought the UPI investigative pair to the vaccine issue, and in Dans case, into the Age of Autism. In the summer of 2003, Mark pursued (and Dan edited) a story about conflicts of interest in the CDCs recommended vaccine program, with a special focus on a little known vaccine inventor, Dr. Paul Offit, and the conflict between his role on the CDCs Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices and his commercial relationship with Merck, which made his rotavirus vaccine. Its a story AoA readers know well!

Mark Benjamin is the man that brought Dan Olmsted and me together. The two Marks (who when added to Dans partner Mark Millett explain Dans dedication in The Age of Autism, to Mark, Mark and Mark, in that order) had been discussing the issues swirling around autism and vaccines. Mark Benjamin wanted Dan to meet me and he arranged a dinner between the three of us in Washington DC on October 7, 2003. That began a collaboration that would last for over 13 years.

As Mark Benjamin turned to issues with the military and the health of veterans, Dan turned his attention to autism. He and I began to have frequent conversations and email exchanges. In 2004, Dan had decided he wanted to launch an extended, deep dive. And he wanted to find a way into the issue that was unique. By year end, Dan and I were just beginning to share thoughts on the issues we would turn into a book 6 years later. Dan, as he so often did, was trying to find the critical question, one that could spark an investigation. On December 7, he prefaced an email list of questions this way: I made a list of some odd ways in (some of which I have seen referred to elsewhere but not conclusively) if you have any thoughts The very first question was right on the mark: Is there anywhere they dont use vaccines and dont have autism? Or any group, like Christian scientists?

Bingo.

I wrote (as is my tendency) a lengthy answer. We have long discussed the idea of using low and zero exposure groups, religious groups (Amish or others), anthroposophic schools, etc. to test the theory. Since autism surveillance stats are not routinely collected, this would require a specific study, one that has never been done (and epi studies are expensive).

And so it began. Dan didnt bother to wait for a bureaucratic funding process. He decided to cut to the chase and do the study himself. He drove from his home in Falls Church Virginia to Lancaster County Pennsylvania, and started asking real people about autism in the Amish. A bare four months later he launched his UPI Age of Autism series with his first article, The Amish Anomaly. As many of us know by now, Dan found very few autistic children there and all of these were in the relatively small subset of vaccinated Amish.

Starting with the Amish Anomaly, on April 19, 2005, Dan added dozens of articles to the series. He stopped writing only when he was laid off at UPI, ending on July 18, 2007 with The Last Word. Along the way, he found the first of Leo Kanners case series, Donald T., the first of eight eventual discoveries and the heart of our book, The Age of Autism. Following his departure from UPI, Dan and I reached out to JB Handley and Kim Stagliano who had started their own blog, Rescue Post. Our joint venture went on line just a few months later.

From the very beginning, Dan stayed close to the families and individuals affected by autism. Dan started out talking to doctors on the front line of the epidemic, free thinkers like the late Meyer Eisenstein and Elizabeth Mumper. In fact, the third column in the UPI series Sick Children took Dans readers to Liz Mumpers pediatric practice in nearby Lynchburg Virginia. Dan wrote Dr. Elizabeth Mumper is an unlikely contrarian. Mumper is a pediatrician in the southern Virginia city of Lynchburg. About a decade ago, Mumper said, she began noticing a change for the worse in the overall health of the children she was seeing, including a startling rise in cases of autism. Ultimately, Mumper came to suspect the increasing number of childhood vaccinations in the 1990s -- and particularly the mercury-based preservative called thimerosal in many of those vaccines -- was a big reason.

Liz was a great source for Dan and me in our second book, Vaccines 2.0. When I reached out to her yesterday to get her reflections on Dan, she described those initial meetings. Dan came to my office in 2005. I was in the midst of running a practice in which many of the children had chronic illness and neurodevelopmental disorders. .Dan had such an inquisitive mind and asked such great questions. I was surprised that a reporter who had not gone to medical school would understand and be able to synthesize complex medical information the way he could.

Like many of us, Liz remarked on Dans tenacity and gift for words. What a gift to passionately seek answers to the unprecedented tsunami of childhood chronic illness! He wove the stories of children, families, medical institutions, government organizations and pharmaceutical industries into compelling prose.

Dans subsequent career-- 10 years here at the daily web newspaper of the autism epidemic (he truly loved real printed newspapers!), two published books and a third on the wayis all available here at Age of Autism. Under Kim Staglianos leadership and with the help of our amazing group of contributing editors we are continuing the noble project Dan started. But we do so with a heavy heart. I heard the news about Dan from his sister Rosie, driving from Boston to Manhattan this Monday afternoon. When I got to the city I sat down for dinner and wept. I didnt know quite what to do, so I typed out this FaceBook post, as tears smudged my iPhone .

To everyone who is sharing love for my great friend Dan Olmsted, please keep it up. Dan deserved so much and I hope will ultimately get the recognition he deserves. Dan was the consummate journalist. He had so much to teach us all about the ethics and discipline of how good reporters should respond to and treat evidence. But he was more than that. He was a deeply original and creative investigator. That combination was unique and compelling. Dan was brilliant and compassionate and persistent and uncompromising and balanced and impatient. All at once. And man! could he put words together in such a graceful and powerful way.

I was so fortunate to be his fellow traveler on the Age of Autism (his phrase and it was so powerful) journey. I will really miss him. I wish I had the words to say it as artfully as he could. I love you man. We'll all miss you. But you kicked some ass.

Later this week, I took my two daughters to dinner in Cambridge. Dan got to know both of them quite well in our years working together. My oldest, Sydney, traveled to Vienna with us as we researched the medical history of mercuric chloride treatments for syphilis and hysteria. My youngest, Michaela (now 21 years old and diagnosed with autistic disorder), spent a lot of time with Dan in recent months; he came to Cambridge a lot as we wrote our third book, Denial. Sydney knew the news already, but when I picked them up we told Michaela about Dans death. She often has difficulty processing emotions, especially sadness, in an appropriate way. But when I told her, I have sad news, honey. Dan is dead, I was pleased to see she was genuinely affected in the way Sydney and I were feeling. Dan is dead, she repeated to herself in a subdued tone. Trying, in her way, to process the news. She had grown up with Dan and knew how close our friendship was.

Later in the evening, as we were walking into dinner at Legal Seafoods, she asked me an amusingly autistic but poignant question. Dad, she asked, are you going to get a replacement for Dan?

No, honey. There will never be a replacement for Dan.



Mark Blaxill is Editor at Large for Age of Autism.








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Turkey and Greece with common borders continue to face mutual tensions and Greece is a major reason for Turkeys efforts to enter the EU as a European power.



Also, those EU members who oppose Turkey to be a EU member mainly because Turkey is the only Muslim nation in entire European continent. For most of EU members find it embarrassing to have a Muslim nation in their estimably Christian continent and create problems to deny Turkey its legitimate claim to be in the EU, though economically and politically Turkey, a stable and prospective nation both ways, would not gain anything being in this weak association.



The Turkish military helicopter that landed in the Greek border city of Alexandroupolis just as an attempted coup was being quashed in Turkey has turned into one of the toughest diplomatic challenges to date for Greeces relatively inexperienced government. On board were eight Turkish military personnel  all unarmed helicopter crew members, it later turned out  who issued a mayday signal and were granted permission for an emergency landing. The eight immediately surrendered to Greek police. They insist they were not involved in the attempted coup, had been tasked with transporting wounded soldiers and civilians and had fled for their lives after coming under fire from Turkish police.



Turkey disputes their claim, and has demanded their return to stand trial for alleged participation in the violent attempt to overthrow the government. But the eight have applied for political asylum in Greece, saying they would be in danger if returned to Turkey amid President Recep Tayyip Erdogans widespread purges of the military and civil service in response to the failed coup.



Turkey has been demanding from its neighbor Greece to hand over the former military personnel involved the failed coup in Turkey to kill President Erdogan and destabilize Islamist Turkey but Greece by using the issue as an important asset to belittle Istanbul has refused to oblige the Turkish government, citing some technical problems.



Greeces Supreme Court has ruled against the extradition of eight Turkish soldiers who fled to Greece in July after a failed coup attempt in Turkey, a decision which angered Ankara and further strained relations between the two neighbours.



Turkey has demanded Greece extradite them to try them for their possible involvement in the coup attempt and has branded them traitors.



The coup men who fled Turkey after their coup failed three majors, three captains and two sergeant-majors  landed a helicopter in northern Greece on 16 July and in oreer to get the support of Greece and EU sought political asylum saying they feared for their lives in Turkey.



Without giving reason to use the military helicopter and fled Turkey after the failed coup, the soldiers deny playing a role in the attempt to oust President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, which led to a purge of the military and civil service. The possibility of their rights being violated or reduced regardless of the degree of guilt or the gravity of the crimes they are accused of does not allow the implementation of extradition rules, a Supreme Court president said.



The soldiers have been kept in protective custody pending final decisions on their asylum applications in Greece. Their lawyer Christos Mylonopoulos said the verdict was a big victory for European values, but he has not explained how those who tried to engineer ac coup to destabilize Turkey and kill the Islamist leaders as it has happened in Egypt is victory for Greece..



The court decision brought an angry response from the Turkish foreign ministry, which accused Greece of protecting plotters and said relations between the two countries would be reviewed. Turkey would use all avenues of law to ensure the soldiers extradition and prosecution, it added. Once again Greece, an ally and a neighbour, has failed to fulfil the basics of the fight against terrorism, it said. The impact of this decision thought to be made with political motives on our mutual ties, our cooperation in the fight against terrorism and our work on other mutual and regional issues will be subject to a comprehensive review.



The state-run Anadolu news agency reported earlier that Turkish authorities had issued arrest warrants for the soldiers. The soldiers have been accused in Turkey of attempting to abrogate the constitution and dissolve parliament, seizing a helicopter, using violence and attempting to assassinate President Erdogan who is already facing problem form his former allies like Gulen who is being shielded by USA for his involvement in the coup and other anti-Turkey activities. President Trump is likely send Gulen back to Turkey for facing legal procedures to clear himself of all charges of treason.



Relations between Greece and Turkey, neighbours and NATO allies, have improved over the years but they remain at odds over territorial disputes and ethnically split Cyprus. In 1996, they almost reached the brink of war over an uninhabited islet.



Today, the two countries play an important role in the handling of Europes worst migration crisis in decades and the EU depends on Ankara to enforce a deal to stem mass migration to Europe. Turkey has been on the forefront to help EU solve the explosive migration crisis by accepting thousands of refugees.



The relations between the Greek and the Turkish states have been marked by alternating periods of mutual hostility and reconciliation ever since Greece won its independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1832. Since then the two countries have faced each other in four major warsthe Greco-Turkish War (1897), the First Balkan War of 1912 to 1913, the First World War (1914 to 1918) and finally the Greco-Turkish War (191922). The latter was followed by the Greco-Turkish population exchange and a period of friendly relations in the 1930s and 1940s.



Both countries entered NATO in 1952 and normalized their ties without tensions. Relations deteriorated again in the 1950s due to the Cyprus issue, Greek destabilization moves, the 1955 Istanbul pogrom and the expulsion of the Istanbul Greeks in the 1960s, leading to the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974, and subsequent military confrontations over the Aegean dispute. A period of relative normalization began after 1999 with the so-called "earthquake diplomacy", which notably led to a change in the previously firmly negative stance of the Greek government on the issue of the accession of Turkey to the European Union.



Both countries entered NATO in 1952 and normalized their ties without tensions. Relations deteriorated again in the 1950s due to the Cyprus issue, the 1955 Istanbul pogrom and the expulsion of the Istanbul Greeks in the 1960s, the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974, and subsequent military confrontations over the Aegean dispute. A period of relative normalization began after 1999 with the so-called "earthquake diplomacy", which notably led to a change in the previously firmly negative stance of the Greek government on the issue of the accession of Turkey to the European Union.



After the failed 2016 Turkish coup d'etat attempt several Turkish military personnel sought political asylum in Greece while Turkey requested their extradition. Also, the Greek armed forces and Coast Guard was on alert and increased the patrols and a contingent of the Greek It seems, police was dispatched to some Greek islands to conduct checks there in order to prevent the arrival of participants in the failed coup to Greece and arrest anyone who might manage to enter the country. No details of detentions are available.



There has been a flow of anti-government Turks seeing asylum in neighboring countries like Greece and Italy. The coup in Turkey was a deep rooted one but failed because President Erdogan could detect the trouble well in advance or before it was too late to do anything, so that coup could not succeed and some plotters fled the nation. Also, the two Turkeys military attache in Athens fled to Italy. The Greek Foreign Ministry canceled the two attache accreditations on August 7, 2016, upon the request of the Turkish Foreign Ministry. At August 11, 2016, the Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said that they left Greece to Italy on August 6 and added that Turkey will officially ask Italian authorities to extradite the two soldiers.



On August 25, 2016, seven Turkish citizens who supported the coup were seeking asylum in Greece. A couple, both of whom are university professors, and their two children applied for asylum in Alexandroupoli after they illegally entered the country from the northeastern border. Also, three businessmen have illegally reached the Greek island of Rhodes, and they also applied for asylum.



On August 30, 2016, interestingly, a Turkish judge arrived in the Greek island of Chios on a migrant boat and sought asylum in the country. He told the Greek coast guard and police officers that he is against Islamist government and is being persecuted in Turkey for his political beliefs by the government of President Tayyip Erdogan. The Turkish judge had been arrested for illegally entering the country and, also, he transferred to Athens for his asylum proceedings.



On September 21, 2016, ten Turkish civilians, two men, two women and six children landed by boat illegally on the Greek island of Rhodes and sought asylum. They told to the Greek authorities they were working in the private sector in Turkey and they were being persecuted by the Turkish government for opposing it and due to their political beliefs. On September 29, 2016, five Turkish nationals, a couple and their child and two other men, arrived in Alexandroupolis by crossing the Evros River by boat illegally and requested political asylum



The arrival of coup plotters on board a Black Hawk helicopter on July 16  and their asylum applications in particular  have created a diplomatic headache for Greece, which has a long history of delicate relations with its much larger and more powerful eastern neighbor. The two countries last came to the brink of war 20 years ago over a territorial dispute in the Aegean Sea that separates them, and while they have since enjoyed far warmer ties, tensions are never far away. Greece often complains of Turkish fighter jet violations of its airspace in the Aegean.



Greek officials quickly returned the helicopter, and have suggested they would like to return the eight as well as per international law but has not kept their word. . .Many in Greece supporting the coup say the frequent comments by Turkish officials, including Erdogan himself, about reinstating the death penalty are complicating matters. If death penalty legislation is introduced in Turkeys parliament, Greece or any other European Union member would struggle to extradite someone to a country where they might be executed.



Turkeys ambassador to Athens, Kerim Uras, has warned that the Turkish public is closely watching the case, and a failure to return the military personnel could have repercussions on bilateral relations. If they are returned as soon as possible, this can really turn into a great, positive thing for bilateral relations, Uras said. if Greece indicates that the military personnel would be returned, Turkey might refrain from turning up the pressure on Athens.



Greece apparently now serves as the safe haven for the coup plotters and anti-national operators in Turkey and Greece supports the anti-Turkish protester sand agitators and plotters as a policy. And hence the Supreme Court also supports the coup plotters and refuses to extradite them.



Extradition of outsiders from neighboring countries is a law that is followed by most countries even without request from the countries where they belong. But Greece and USA still refuse to extradite those from Turkey with anti-government charges.



This attitude strengthens the anti-Islamic movements particularly in Islamic world.
Aiken, SC (29801)

Today

Cloudy skies with a few showers this afternoon. High near 80F. Winds SE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Rain showers early with scattered thunderstorms arriving overnight. Low 67F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%.
Photo: Co-Sponsors Wait At O'Hare To Greet One Of Last Syrian Refugees Before Ban

By Stephen Gossett in News on Jan 27, 2017 10:46PM



Photo: Scott Olson

President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Friday in Washington D.C. that severely restricts the flow of refugees to the United States. It includes, according to drafts cited in news reports, bans on Syrian refugees until an extreme vetting process is administered.

Hundreds of miles west, in Chicago, a simultaneously heartwarming and heart-shattering scene played out at O'Hare.

Reporter Jodi Kantor, of the New York Times, tweeted the image below. A large group of co-sponsors waits to greet "one of the last Syrian families to arrive before Trump signs the orders."

I'm at O'Hare with volunteers waiting for one of the last Syrian families to arrive before Trump signs the orders. pic.twitter.com/QStUy20xN1  jodikantor (@jodikantor) January 27, 2017



Such a welcoming group is not an uncommon sightor at least it hasn't been until now. "As often as possible, we try to match refugees and sponsors with co-sponsors," Jims Porter, of RefugeeOne, a Chicago-based organization that helps settle refugees in the area, told Chicagosit. Co-sponsors form "either through groups of faith, a group of people from a mutual workplace, or a business or corporation that wants to help. And they support them from the moment they arrive." Co-sponsors will often furnish a refugee family's first residence, "provide a hot meal" oras the photo would appear to indicateoffer a lift from the airport, Porter said.

Godspeed.

Trump's executive action will likely ban all people from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen for 30 days and also lift refugee admissions for 120 days. The refugee program will then be reinstated "'only for nationals of countries for whom' members of Trump's Cabinet deem can be properly vetted," according to CNN.

It is unclear how the executive action will affect refugees who are already scheduled to arrive in the near future but have not yet.
Aiken, SC (29801)

Today

Considerable cloudiness with occasional rain showers. High near 80F. Winds SE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Cloudy with showers. Low 67F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%.
The third "Happy Chinese New Year: Fantastic Art China," co-hosted by the China Central Academy of Fine Arts (CAFA) and the US-China Cultural Institute, will commence January 23rd, and conclude January 31st, 2017. A vital part of the "Happy Chinese New Year" program, "Happy Chinese New Year: Fantastic Art China" is a series of arts and culture initiatives where traditional culture, modern discourse, and innovative visual arts and creative design meet. The 2017 theme is "Year of the Rooster, Light of Gold". It invokes the auspicious connotation of light and hope symbolized by the Year of Rooster, and aims to facilitate creative exchange between Chinese and American cultures while paving the way for continued opportunities to collaborate and mutually share in education, arts, and culture.

The program for the 2017 will consist of three modules: "Celebratory Activities", "Art Exhibitions", and "Public and Arts Educational Events". These activities will run through New York City's many iconic culture and architectural landmarks, bringing a series of free arts and cultural activities to fellow New Yorkers.

Celebratory Activities: A Brilliant Feast for the Eyes and Ears

This year's "Happy Chinese New Year: Fantastic Art China" presents a series of celebratory activities integrating visual arts and music, including the Empire State Building Light Show, Fireworks Spectacular on the Hudson River, the Lincoln Center Public Art Display, and the New York Philharmonic's Chinese New Year Concert and Gala.

Empire State Building Light Show

Illumine the Empire State Building light installation

The Empire State Building Light Installation starts at sunset on January 26th and 27th and will change every sixty seconds until morning, adding a touch of Chinese festive color to the New York City skyline. The Chinese New Year Fireworks Spectacular designed by CAFA began at 8:30 PM over the Hudson River on January 26th. The fireworks display consists of four chapters: "Wintertime," "A Hundred Birds," "Spring Returns," and "Phoenix". The display's theme of the natural flow of seasons and imagery of "A Hundred" and "Phoenix" pays homage to the Chinese philosophy that all living things should strive to develop in harmony. The specially designed fireworks display offers a vibrant feast for the senses while conveying ancient festival blessings to the modern world.

The Chinese New Year Fireworks Spectacular

The Chinese New Year Fireworks Spectacular

The Chinese New Year Fireworks Spectacular

As a proud partner, the New York Philharmonic will hold its 6th annual Chinese New Year Concert at 7:30 PM on January 31st at David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center, sounding the close of the nine-day celebration. Meanwhile, the Lincoln Center Plaza will present a public art display incorporating Chinese New Year themes.

A group photo of the organizers and partners of Fantastic Art China

Prof. Yu Ding, President of Art Management and Education Institute of CCAFA and the Chief Planner of this project, in the interview

"Fantastic Art China" Exhibitions: Works from Top Chinese Art Academy

Four themed exhibitions will go on display at the New York Institute of Interior Design (January 23rd-29th) and the Metropolitan Pavilion (January 26th-29th).

 Abstract Art in Dialogue present the works of young Chinese and American artists. Drawing from their distinct cultural perspectives and diverse artistic approaches, they explore new possibilities in contemporary abstract art.

 Image of the Mind: Contemporary Chinese Art showcases works by sixteen pioneering contemporary Chinese artists, including Shang Yang, Hong Yao, Ma Lu, Su Xinping, Zhan Wang, Lyu Pinchang, Miao Xiaochun, Zhang Fangbai, Xiang Yang, Huang Yong, Qiu Ting, Cai Zhisong, Mu Boyan, Feng Fang, Huang Zhen and Wu Jian'an, who utilize different media and artistic languages to incorporate the Chinese ink painting technique "freehand" into contemporary Chinese art, forming new outlooks on contemporary Chinese art and treading new paths in its development.

 China-America Young Artists Exhibition and China-America Art Students Exhibition focus on cross-cultural dialogue, and showcase the latest works of Chinese and American art students and young artists, presenting concerns, creative perspectives, and varying approaches from new generations of artists.

Dance given by children from New York schools highlighting "the Year of Rooster"

Public and Arts Educational Events: Promoting China - America Art Educational Exchanges

With the assistance of Beijing Visual Art Innovation Institute and New York School of Interior Design, "Fantastic Art China" will hold a series of public programs to facilitate further dialogue between the higher arts education fields of China and the U.S.. This module includes the Experimental Film Screening, the Panel Discussion on Art and New Urban Culture, and the China - America Art Colleges Collaboration Initiative: Students Visit Program. The "Experimental Film Screening" explores the theme "Art and New Urban Culture," and takes place January 23rd, 27th and 28th in New York School of Interior Design's Arthur Satz Auditorium. It features outstanding student experimental film works from Beijing Film Academy and other colleges. This is the first time the "China & America Art Colleges Initiative: Students Visit Program" has invited artist representatives from Chinese higher education institutions to participate.

In addition, the "NYC Lunar New Year Students Day" will be open to the public on January 28th at the Metropolitan Pavilion. It is to celebrate the city's historic designation of the Lunar New Year as a school holiday for 1.1 million public school students.

The third annual "Happy Chinese New Year: Fantastic Art China" brings together many Chinese and American partners, including the Empire State Realty Trust, Lincoln Center, the New York Philharmonic, the National Dance Institute, New York School of Interior Design, China Institute, Fireworks By Grucci, Cathy Barbash Arts Consulting Services, as well as Chinese companies and organizations including Guangdong Ji Mei Design & Construction Co., Ltd., Shanghai Kechuan Culture and Arts Co., Ltd., Art.china.cn, Beijing Television, Beijing Chengyun Culture Communication Co., Ltd., Tianjin Wangda Displaying Tools Co., Ltd., Liuyang Intently Fireworks Display Co., Ltd, etc.

About Central Academy of Fine Arts (CAFA)

The Central Academy of Fine Arts (CAFA) is the only institution of higher arts education under the direct charge of the Ministry of Education of the PRC. The most prestigious and renowned art academy in China with over 4,700 undergraduate and graduate students, CAFA consists of eight specialty schools, including the School of Chinese Painting, the School of Fine Arts, the School of Design, and the Institute of Arts Administration and Education, etc. CAFA has committed itself to rendering a modern arts education system that enables disciplines such as Fine Arts, Art Design, Architectures and Humanities to mutually support and influence one another. Serving as a both a pioneer and leader in the field of art education, CAFA has nurtured many world-renowned artists and scholars, and has made a unique contribution to the development of modern Chinese art.

Free Events Schedule:

2017 "Happy Chinese New Year: Fantastic Art China" (January 2331)

Special Exhibition: Abstract Art in Dialogue

Gallery of New York School of Interior Design (161 E 69th St)

Opening reception: January 23, 6PM8PM

Exhibition on view: January 24-29, 11AM6PM

Experimental Film Screening

New York School of Interior Design, Arthur Satz Auditorium (170 E 70th St)

January 23 at 7PM, January 27 at 4PM, and January 28 at 6PM

Art Exhibitions: Image of the Mind: Contemporary Chinese Art , Cross-Cultural Dialogue: China-America Young Artists exhibition and Cross-Cultural Dialogue: China-America Art Students exhibition Metropolitan Pavilion (125 W 18th St)

Preview: January 26, 6PM  9PM (Opening Ceremony, Open to the Public)

Public opening hours: January 27-28, 10AM6PM

January 29, 10AM12PM

Empire State Building Light Installation

Empire State Building (350 5th Ave)

January 26 & 27 evenings

Fireworks Spectacular on the Hudson River

Hudson River Pier 84 (Pier 84, 12th Ave & 44th St)

January 26 at 8:30PM

Fireworks soundtrack is available on Fireworks by Grucci APP.

Panel Discussion on Art and New Urban Culture

New York School of Interior Design, Arthur Satz Auditorium (170 E 70th St)

January 27 at 2PM

NYC Lunar New Year Students Day

Metropolitan Pavilion, 5th floor (125 W 18th St)

January 28 at 10:30AM & 2:30PM

New York Philharmonic Chinese New Year Concert (ticketed)

David Geffen Hall, Lincoln Center (10 Lincoln Center Plaza)

January 31 at 7:30PM

Tickets: $35 to $110

Lincoln Center Public Art Display

Lincoln Center Josie Robertson Plaza

January 31
January 27, 2017

On Jan. 25, Interior Minister Aryeh Deir announced that he had approved the entry into Israel of some 100 Syrian children orphaned in their country's civil war. According to the plan prepared by the ministry, the children will be granted temporary residency, and after four years will be eligible for permanent resident status allowing them to remain in Israel. If first-degree relatives of the children are located at some point, the Interior Ministry will also consider granting them Israeli residency.

Deri came under pressure over the past year from various directions urging him to take some sort of humanitarian action, even if symbolic, proving that Israelis are not indifferent to events across its border. After all, Israel itself is a state of refugees who experienced the Holocaust, and it cannot sit around doing nothing when such horrific scenes are emerging from Syria. So far Israel has treated more than 2,500 wounded Syrians brought to Israeli hospitals, but none were granted residency and all were returned to Syria after their treatment and recovery.

Opposition Chairman Isaac Herzog of the Zionist Camp appealed to the government more than a year ago, in September 2015, saying Jews cannot remain indifferent when thousands of refugees are seeking safe haven. Herzog urged Israel to take in Syrians and grant them a life-saving asylum status. A fellow Knesset member from Herzog's Zionist Camp, Itzik Shmuli, waged a campaign on the issue and called on the interior minister to take immediate humanitarian measures to save refugees, wondering out loud how we had all become so inured to the wholesale slaughter of innocents.

We Israelis have not exactly been indifferent to events in Syria. Since the outbreak of the war almost six years ago, and especially since the massacres in Aleppo, various Israeli organizations have been energized into action. Some raised money for human rights organizations helping Syrian refugees, others mobilized Israeli public opinion in a bid to prompt government action, repeatedly haranguing the government to show its sensitivity to the murder of civilians.

Activists from Israeli human rights nongovernmental organizations have been active in the field throughout the ongoing war in Syria. The Israel Flying Aid organization, for instance, is specialized in life-saving assistance to populations in countries with which Israel does not have diplomatic ties. This organization has launched a crowdfunding campaign titled "The Syrians are on the fences  Israel engages for the children." The heads of the group were astonished at the generous response of Israelis to the campaign. They received 1.3 million shekels ($300,000), more than double the sum they were hoping for.

The engagement of human rights organizations and left-wing groups may seem obvious and a must. But apparently right-wing activists also have started calling upon the government to take action, and have taken steps in that direction.

One of the groups that launched such an extensive online campaign was "My Israel," a right-wing organization founded in 2010 by Education Minister Naftali Bennett, the head of the HaBayit HaYehudi Party, and his fellow party lawmaker, Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked. The group, currently headed by Sara Haetzni, boasts widespread support from tens of thousands of Israelis and the ability to influence the Israeli political agenda.

In an interview with Al-Monitor, Haetzni said there is nothing trivial in members of a movement that views itself as a national, Zionist group mobilizing for the citizens of an enemy state. "But one must set aside the differences and the emotional baggage and stir public opinion to do the humanitarian thing. We knew people would criticize us and we would generate lots of anger within our camp, but it was a calculated risk," she said. As it turned out, they got more support and offers to help spread the word than criticism and attacks.

The idea for the My Israel campaign was the brain child of Itai Reuveni, who works for another right-wing organization called NGO Monitor, founded 15 years ago to follow other nonprofits that claim to be human rights advocates but are, in fact, politically biased toward the left. Reuveni went to My Israel and to other groups, and suggested joint action on the Syrian issue. He told Al-Monitor that he had been exposed during his work to daily reports from the battlefields in Syria and could not remain indifferent.

Nonetheless, Reuveni admits that among the considerations that motivated him to persuade his colleagues in other organizations to take action and to generate pro-refugee public opinion, was the feeling that undertaking such a necessary humanitarian move would prove Israel's sensitivity to refugees, on the one hand, and would expose the hypocrisy of the world, on the other. "The main objective was, of course, to mobilize for the sake of the refugees, but also to show that the world, which is always preaching to us, has proven that it doesn't care that people are being slaughtered every day. More the reason for us to take significant steps and show that we are leading, that we are humane, that we are not indifferent to the genocide occurring on our door step."

Reuveni and Haetzni don't know whether the campaign they initiated and led did, indeed, influence Deri's decision. But there is no doubt that the public sentiment generated in Israel in recent weeks, especially after the horrible massacre in Aleppo, served as a convenient backdrop for it, both among the political left and right, which welcomed the plan to take in orphaned children and babies.

According to the plan, the orphans will be brought to Israel by international human rights organizations active among civilians in the war zones. The Israeli organization Amaliah has already been active. Last September it worked to bring dozens of Syrian children from the Quneitra area bordering Israel for treatment in Israeli hospitals, and then arranged recreational activity for them in kibbutzim in northern Israel. It's safe to assume that the 100 children who will be brought as official refugees are mostly Aleppo residents who lost their parents. According to the recommendations of international human aid organizations, the children will initially live in boarding schools and with foster families in Arab-Israeli towns and villages. They will undergo medical treatment, psychological and rehabilitative counseling, and will start learning Hebrew so they can attend Israeli schools. In four years they could get permanent residency.
January 27, 2017

On Jan. 27, Russia Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov hosted a group of Syrian opposition representatives in Moscow. After the talks earlier this week in Astana, Kazakhstan, Moscow was looking to double down on its mediation role, even though big news wasnt expected from the meeting at Russias Foreign Ministry.

A Russian journalist covering the event was skeptical: These arent the militant opposition groups that were present in Astana; this is just some tamed opposition. Indeed, the people involved in the Moscow meeting were mainly from the so-called Hmeymim, Moscow-Cairo and Astana opposition groups that are deemed Russia-friendly, though it took Moscow time and effort to make it happen.

The Saudi-backed High Negotiations Committee of the Syrian opposition (HNC), which had also been invited to the talks, refused to attend, allegedly demanding an individual meeting with Russians. Addressing the opposition leaders in his opening remarks, Lavrov complained, If we always squared up with [the HNCs] position wed never start negotiations on the Syria peace settlement. Another opposition formation, the National Coalition for Syrian Revolutionary and Opposition Forces (SNC) also canceled its meeting with Lavrov and declined the draft of a constitution offered by Russia.

Lavrovs two-hour meeting with 10 representatives from opposition groups  regardless of how powerful they are  was indicative of Moscows approach to the Syria peace process. Its critical for Moscow at this stage to get as many intra-Syrian and regional stakeholders to support Russias mediation efforts, and ideally to share its own vision for how the process should be implemented. The approach seeks to raise Russias regional credibility and its ability to offer constructive solutions, and leans on Moscows flexibility to work with all the interested players.

Russia invited three officials from the Kurdish nationalist Democratic Union Party (PYD) to the meeting with Lavrov, where they reportedly presented their version of a constitution for a federative republic.

Putins own meeting with the king of Jordan on Jan. 25 followed the same pattern.

Astana was a qualitatively new step in the Syrian peace settlement, said Lavrov, as his deputy, Mikhail Bogdanov  who is also Putins envoy on Middle Eastern and African Affairs  nodded in consent. The Astana conference hadnt produced any substantial breakthroughs, but there were two important takeaways that could be helpful in the long run.

First, both the Syrian government and the opposition reiterated their commitment to seek a peaceful political solution to the civil war. Second, the Astana event transformed the peace talks to the point where militant opposition groups that previously hadnt participated in the process but were critical to the situation on the ground are now expected to be present at UN-sponsored talks next month in Geneva.

The top initiative that Russians elaborated on in Moscow was a proposed Syrian constitution. Moscow insists it was designed in accordance with the positions of Damascus, the opposition and the interests of the regional states. Although the draft hasnt yet been officially presented, some of it was leaked, supposedly by an opposition representative, and appeared in the Russian press.

The 27 provisions listed in the draft cover the three most important aspects of Syrias future.

One has to do with the nature of the new state: The draft suggests dropping the word Arab from the countrys official name, thus making it Syrian Republic. The current provision enshrining "Islamic law as a main source of legislation" would be rejected along with the present constitutional provision requiring the president to be Muslim. These are the legal means suggested to make new Syria a freer, more open and all-inclusive state and a society with equal opportunities for social and political participation for everyone.

The second aspect deals with the very institution of the presidency: It would stipulate a seven-year term with no right to run for a second consecutive term. The president would still be commander-in-chief, but could only announce an emergency situation and call for a general mobilization with approval from a new body to be called the "Assembly of Regions. Also, the presidents power to appoint the heads of the Constitutional Court and the Central Bank would be passed to the parliamentary People's Assembly.

The third part of the draft has to do with the state structure and stipulates decentralizing government and empowering local councils. It also seeks to leave aside the current quota system for parliamentary membership. One issue that has stirred debate is a provision allowing for autonomy of Kurdish regions, which Russia sees as an adequate compromise for the countrys federalization. A provision stipulating equal rights for Kurds and Arabs on Kurdish territories is also remarkable. Moreover, under the proposed draft, every region in the country should be given the right to legalize the use of a language of the regions majority  in addition to the state language and in accordance with the law.

The proposals quickly developed supporters and opponents across all ranks of political groups in Syria and beyond. So far, the Kurdish issue is the most controversial. Turkey, Damascus and the Arab opposition forces all have their own caveats about the proposed autonomy  and it doesnt please the Kurds, either, as they want more. The expectation in Moscow is that, at the end of the day, the parties will share the view that extreme, uncompromising positions will mean no end to the civil war in the near future, while the proposed formula may be the best possible solution under the current circumstances.

Some opponents have said Russias draft is similar to the constitution the United States drew up for Iraq. Lavrov waves off the accusations as groundless: These are just proposals, we are not intending to impose them. Syrians themselves should be discussing them.  Its just that our five-year-long experience taught us that you will never get started with any work unless there are some concrete proposals on the table.

Konstantin Kosachev, the head of the Russian Senates Foreign Relations Committee, earlier echoed similar sentiments saying Russia was not imposing the constitution project, but looked at it rather as our contribution to catalyze the peace process.

So far, rather than pushing the proposals, Moscow is waiting to see how they are received and what counterproposals might be made. Being cautiously optimistic about the drafts prospects, Moscow also is bearing in mind the real, objective limits to the process.

Wars like this tend to smolder for at least 20-25 years, a retired Russian senior military official told Al-Monitor, so Syria will long haunt all of us, even if some progress is achieved at any point.
January 27, 2017

If you had asked me five years ago to reveal the Kurdistan Workers Party's (PKKs) combat inventory, I would have listed the AK-47 Kalashnikov as the personal gun used across the board, the BKC (Bixi) machine gun, the SVD Dragunov sniper rifle, a few A2/A4 US rifles, anti-tank weapons limited to RPG-7 rocket launchers, no anti-tank missiles, extremely limited access to MANPADS and shoulder-fired, ground-to-air defense missiles. The same PKK force would rely on commercially available Yaesu radios to communicate, would not be equipped with night and thermal vision optics, and would procure its uniforms and supplies locally. In short, it would be equipped for long-term, low-intensity clashes in rural terrain.

But now, because of the wars in Iraq and Syria with advanced weaponry used by all belligerents, the PKK has become a sophisticated force by diversifying its weaponry, ammunition and equipment. The Turkish military notes the PKK and its northern Syrian combat affiliate, the People's Protection Units (YPG), are gradually becoming more of a regular army by constantly improving their conventional capabilities such as armored unit tactics; artillery and rocket-fire support without line-of-sight availability; large-scale logistics movements; coordinating close air support; and providing artillery-forward observation, surveillance and reconnaissance with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and urban warfare.

Today, the Turkish Armed Forces (TSK) is learning on the ground in al-Bab clashes how tough the new generation of urban warfare with the Islamic State (IS) can be. Turkish troops are experiencing major tests against the defensive model IS has developed based on tunnel warfare, anti-tank missiles and vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices, used with lethal effect in urban warfare. Ankara is now seriously considering whether the PKK will also be achieving the military technology and modern military capability levels of IS.

We had earlier seen how the PKK had developed its weaponry, ammunition and equipment inventories within its trench-barrier warfare against Turkish security forces in Cizre, Silopi, Silvan, Sur/Diyarbakir, Yuksekova and finally at Nusaybin. The weapons and equipment Turkish forces have seized in the clashes painfully show that the PKK diversification and sophistication efforts are continuing unabated.

According to a defense analyst who spoke to Al-Monitor in Ankara but did not want his name mentioned, diversification of the PKK arsenal is most perceptible in its anti-tank rocketry, hand grenades and anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs). The source said, In the past, the PKK used to rely mostly on PG-7 RPG-7 rockets. Now they field RPG-7VM, PG-7ML, DZGI-40 and HEI-AP rockets. There is a sizable increase in their stocks of hand grenades of German manufacture DM41 and DM51, South Korean-made K-413, and US-made M26/61 and M67.

We also watched on Guerrilla TV  which is accepted as the PKKs military broadcast system  and in their social media platforms their use of Metis and Fagot anti-tank missiles against Turkish army targets. In a video recording of April 10, 2016, in Uludere in Sirnak province, and June 26, 2016, at Sirnak again, we saw them firing MILAN ATGMs.

From photographs distributed by the TSK, we see that one 9M113 Konkurs launch tube was captured at Cudi Mountain on Sept. 2, 2016, and another one in Semdinli in Hakkari province on Sept. 27. Also at Cudi Mountain, four M7 Osa rockets were found along with a fiberglass Osa rocket tube in Silopi in Sirnak province.

Ankara was particularly concerned by the capture of 9438 Igla (NATO code name Grouse) MANPADS on Aug. 25 in Sason in Batman province. We have to remember that on May 13, 2016, a TSK AH-1W helicopter was shot down with the same type of MANPADS.

In 2016, the Turkish military noted an upsurge in Iranian-made weapons seized from the PKK. For example, on Dec. 3, 2016, Iranian-made M57, RPG-7 rocket-propelled launchers, PG7-A, PG-7-AT rocket launchers and NR431A 60 mm mortar rounds were seized. On Oct. 6, M62P8 120 mm mortar rounds manufactured by the Serbian company Krusij were found in Cukurca in Hakkari province. The ease with which they could harass the Turkish army's fixed and mobile outposts with mortars have encouraged the PKK to procure fire control equipment for its mortar attacks.

A major indication of the PKKs efforts to diversify its anti-tank weaponry was the capture on June 1, 2013, of a Swedish Saab-Bofors-manufactured AT4 84 anti-tank weapon.

Turkey has also noted the increasing numbers of M16A2 and M16A4 US-made rifles, FN FAL 50 rifles, Serbian-origin M08-40 40 mm rifle grenades and Glock pistols for the leadership. Also noted are the PKKs efforts to improve its accurate firing at night and in poor visibility by mounting Specter thermal cameras on M16A2 rifles.

The anti-material sniper rifle  the 12.7 mm Kord (or its modified Zagros model)  which was first seen in PKK hands in 2012, has now become a standard weapon. It is extremely effective in harassing helicopters and armored vehicles.

The PKK uses DHSK-Kord heavy machine guns for security of its permanent bases. To protect these heavy machine guns against air attacks, the PKK has developed a rail movement system in caves.

The PKK is working on enhancing reconnaissance with UAVs (drones), and Turkish forces have so far seized US-made RQ 20 Puma and civilian model DJI Phantom drones from the PKK.

The question then becomes how the PKK is procuring so many different kinds of developed weapons systems and equipment. Here a hard reality everyone knows but doesnt talk about is the weapons black markets that have blossomed in Syria and Iraq, where one can buy or lease any weapons system including tanks and multibarreled rocket launchers. Particularly widespread in Syria is the sale in bazaars of guns and ammunition sent to opposition armed groups or exchanges with other groups. US, European and Iranian weapons and ammunition supplied to armed groups such as Kurdish peshmerga forces, the Iraqi army and Shiite militias are sometimes transferred to the PKK or sold on the market. One must also not ignore the PKK/YPG war booty of weapons and equipment  especially from their clashes with IS.

Another anonymous source speaking to Al-Monitor said, Contrary to prevailing impression, most of the weapons the PKK uses in Turkey do not enter Turkey from northern Syria but from northern Iraq. This means these are weapons supplied or sold to peshmerga, Shiite militias and the Iraqi army. There is now a lucrative regional weapons black market further nurtured by the clashes in Libya and Ukraine. For instance, I know that some Arab countries import weapons from the Balkans and send them to Iraq.

Can Ankara put an end to this phenomenon? Unfortunately, that is practically impossible, as serial numbers and manufacturing information are erased from ATGMs and MANPADS. Moreover, Ankaras continuing problems with Damascus and Baghdad and persisting weakness of a central authority in those countries enable weapons black markets to flourish and operate with impunity.

What is impossible to ignore is that the crises in Syria and Iraq enrich nonstate actors like the PKK and strengthen their military arsenals while severely boosting the security threats to states like Turkey.
A new economic development advisory committee will focus on the future of HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology in Huntsville.

HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology. (File photo)

The nine-member group is charged with "retention, expansion and attraction of life science companies" at HudsonAlpha's Cummings Research Park campus and across North Alabama. The committee met this week for the first time.

HudsonAlpha Vice President for Economic Development Carter Wells, a member on the committee, said the group is needed as HudsonAlpha becomes a hub for new and expanding bioscience companies.

"Bringing together this group of prominent leaders in economic development will continue to foster life sciences growth in North Alabama and across the region," he said in a statement.

In addition to Wells, the group's members include:

Anne Burkett, director of the North Alabama International Trade Association and director of Madison County Planning and Economic Development

Cindy Burns, vice president of the North Alabama Industrial Development Association

Ted Clem, director of business development for the Alabama Department of Commerce

Harrison Diamond, business relations officer for the City of Huntsville

Will Hearn, senior vice president at CBRE; Site Selectors Guild

Jim Hudson, co-founder and board chairman at HudsonAlpha

Erin Koshut, director of Cummings Research Park

Spencer Sessions, target market specialist for the Tennessee Valley Authority Economic Development

The new committee comes just weeks after HudsonAlpha broke ground on a new biotech campus for life science companies in Huntsville. The 100,000-square-foot facility will be the fourth building on campus, which now employs more than 700 workers.

Conversant Bio, which supplies human tissue and cell samples to develop new medicines and diagnostic tools, will be one of the first companies to move to the new building.
There were bubbles in the Chinese film industry in 2016 which first excited filmmakers and investors but eventually turned into disappointments. However, hundreds of new Chinese films and filmmakers are already gearing up for a new year.

China.org.cn previews 20 Chinese films that can be looked forward to in 2017:

"Bleeding Steel"

"Bleeding Steel," a sci-fi action movie directed by Leo Zhang and starring Jackie Chan. Science fiction is a rare genre for Jackie Chan, who will play an agent protecting a witness in a conspiracy. The film has an international cast and crew, including Callan Mulvey ("Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice"), and a part of it was shot in Australia, where Chan has an extraordinary fight on the roof of the Sydney Opera House. It is reported to be the most expensive Chinese film ever shot in Australia.

The film will be released on Dec. 22, 2017.
Two young girls helped Birmingham police officers catch a man who broke into their home on Saturday morning, police said.

Birmingham police Sgt. Bryan Shelton said the girls, ages 8 and 14, called 911 at around 9:45 a.m. and told a dispatcher that they could hear someone in their kitchen.

"The girls did an excellent job staying calm and helping officers catch the suspects," he said.

Shelton said the girls hid from the intruder and weren't harmed.

The burglary occurred in the 9700 block of Redlane Road in the Roebuck area of east Birmingham.

At the scene, one officer went to the rear of the house and saw someone walking through the residence. Another officer was at the front door when the suspect walked out of the house carrying stolen items, according to police.

Two young girls were honored after helping Birmingham police officers locate a man who broke into their home on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. (Birmingham police)

"This is a situation an adult could find scary and be frozen with fear, unable to act," Shelton said. "For an 8-and-14-year-old to think and respond was an example of bravery and cunningness. They outsmarted a criminal, and won a victory for crime fighting. Too bad we can't hire them yet!"

The two girls were honored by the responding officers, Shelton said.

The suspect is in police custody. His name and charges have yet to be released.
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Customers talk outside Berlin Plaza Quick Stop in Cullman, Ala., on June 10, 2014. The store was the scene of a shooting two days earlier that preceded the slaying on a man convicted of sexually abusing a girl in 2002. The girl's father is now charged with murder in the shooting. (AP Photo/Jay Reeves) (Jay Reeves)

An appeals court won't let a Cullman County man who pleaded guilty in November to killing his daughter's former sexual abuser change his mind and have his case heard by a jury.

In a Jan. 26 order, the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals said Jay Maynor, 43, waited too long to ask for a dismissal of his plea deal. Cullman County Circuit Judge Greg Nicholas, in turn, set aside his Jan. 24 granting a trial.

After pleading guilty, Maynor sentenced to 40 years in prison for the June 2014 killing of Raymond Earl Brooks, a 59-year-old Berlin man. Brooks pleaded guilty to sexually abusing Maynor's daughter 15 years ago.

In court documents, Maynor claimed he pleaded guilty to save his daughter Julia Maynor, now 24, from having to testify at trial.

Maynor also was sentenced to 20 years in prison for attempted murder because he opened fire outside a country store in the Berlin community.

Just before Brooks was killed, Maynor saw and fired at a man who had been dating his stepdaughter. The boyfriend ran into the Berlin Plaza Quick Stop on U.S. 278 and hid.

Brooks pleaded guilty to sexual abuse in 2002. Although he was sentenced to five years in prison, he later received probation, court records show.
Dateline NBC tonight profiled the story of Justin Ross Harris, the Georgia father convicted of murder after he left his 22-month-old son Cooper in a hot SUV.

In November, the 36-year-old was found guilty of murder after his son died in the back of an SUV in June 2014, as temperatures climbed into the high 80s.

He was sentenced to life without parole in December.

Prosecutors argued in the trial that Harris was unhappily married and intentionally killed his son because he wanted an escape from family life. Defense attorneys maintained that Harris was a loving father and that while he was responsible for the boy's death, it was a tragic accident.

Harris moved from Tuscaloosa, Alabama, to Georgia to work at Home Depot's corporate office in Cobb County, Georgia, just northwest of Atlanta.
Muslim Immigrant Protest

Protesters hold signs during a rally against President Donald Trump's executive order on Muslim immigration, Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017, in downtown Miami. The protesters manifested their opposition to Trump's executive order restricting immigration from some Middle Eastern and African countries.

(Alan Diaz/AP Photo)

President Donald Trump signed an executive action on Friday to establish new vetting procedures for some people seeking to enter the U.S., saying the measure would prevent terrorists from being admitted into the country.

Text of the document was not immediately available. Trump signed it at the Pentagon after a ceremonial swearing-in of his defense secretary, James Mattis.

"I am establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America," he said. "We want to make sure we are not admitting to our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas."

The Trump administration has been considering further restrictions on refugees admitted to the U.S., but it was not clear if any of those measures were included in the document the president signed on Friday. Trump said in an interview with the Christian Broadcasting Network on Friday that he regards Christians as a priority for the U.S. refugee program.

"They've been horribly treated," Trump told the network. "Do you know if you were a Christian in Syria it was impossible, at least very tough to get into the United States? If you were a Muslim you could come in, but if you were a Christian, it was almost impossible."

State Department data show that 34 Syrian Christian refugees were admitted into the U.S. in the fiscal year that ended Sept. 30 and 39 so far in the current fiscal year. By comparison, 12,486 Muslim Syrians were admitted in fiscal 2016 and 4,772 so far this year.

Syria is a majority Muslim nation, and U.S. officials say that Christians fleeing the country's civil war have largely wound up at refugee processing centers in areas the U.S. government considers unsafe to work.

"There are Christians being processed, and processed at the same percentage at that which they apply for the program," Lavinia Limon, president and chief executive officer of the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants, an advocacy group, said in a phone interview. "So they're moving through the process exactly in the same percentage."

Trump also signed a measure at the Pentagon that he said would "begin a great rebuilding of the armed services of the United States," including "new planes, new ships, new resources and new tools for our men and women in uniform."

Text of that document was also not immediately available.

During his campaign, Trump warned that the U.S. risked allowing terrorists to slip into the country as part of the refugee program, pointing to terrorist attacks such as the killing of a French priest and a bombing at a German music festival, as evidence of the danger posed by refugees.

Trump originally proposed a temporary ban on all Muslim immigration to the U.S. After drawing criticism, he subsequently proposed blocking immigration from countries with a "proven history" of terrorism. Other than Syria, he had not specified what countries would meet that definition during his campaign.

"We've taken in tens of thousands of people; we know nothing about them," Trump said Thursday in an interview on Fox News. "They can say they vet them, they didn't vet them. They have no papers. How can you vet somebody when you don't know anything about them and you have no papers? How do you vet them? You can't."

Under the Obama administration, the U.S. focused its refugee admissions on individuals with existing links to America, as well as women and children facing persecution or in desperate need of medical care. The screening process averages 12 to 18 months and includes biometric data and reviews by multiple law enforcement and intelligence agencies.

"If you actually get resettled in the United States, it's literally like winning the lottery," Limon said.

Trump's call to limit refugee admissions has been denounced by human-rights groups who say vulnerable people seeking to flee religious or political persecution would be denied safe haven. Although Trump has pulled back from statements early in his presidential campaign that he would ban immigration by Muslims, his critics say his policies are intended to embrace anti-Muslim sentiment and would erode America's standing around the world.

"We bomb your country, creating a humanitarian nightmare, then lock you inside," Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Connecticut, said in a statement on Wednesday. "That's a horror movie, not a foreign policy."

Washington Post reporters Shannon Pettypiece and Michelle Jamrisko wrote this article with assistance from Nick Wadhams and Justin Sink.
brooks

U.S. Congressman Mo Brooks speaks at Washington Update Luncheon sponsored by Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County. (Bob Gathany/bgathany@AL.com)

Citing examples in his own political career, U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks sided with President Trump over concerns about voter fraud.

But Brooks said Friday that support does not extend to Trump's assertion that 3 to 5 million illegal votes were cast in November's presidential race.

"(Trump) is spot on about their being illegal votes and we need to prospectively do what is necessary to limit voting to American citizens at the voter registration and at the voting place," Brooks told AL.com. "I have no way of knowing about that 3 to 5 million. Nobody has any way of knowing. It could be more; it could be less."

Brooks' comments, which have reverberated through the political world, were first captured in a secret recording during a private question-and-answer session in Philadelphia on Thursday with Vice President Mike Pence for House and Senate Republicans.

Brooks said he had no way of knowing who may have recorded his comments or leaked them to the media. But he said it's not a concern because he is usually willing to repeat publicly what he may have initially said privately.

In a ballroom with hundreds of federal lawmakers and others, Brooks told Pence that Trump's concern about voter fraud was "may be spot on." The media, which had been in the room earlier to cover Pence's opening remarks, had been escorted from the room before the Q-and-A began, Brooks said.

Supporting Trump's concern over illegal voting, however, does not equate to Trump's assertions about the 3 to 5 million illegal votes cast that he said went to Democratic challenger Hillary Clinton and explained why she won the popular vote even as Trump won the electoral college vote.

"If you're talking about 3 to 5 million, that's impossible to prove," Brooks said. "If you're talking, over the years, a lot of votes being cast illegally, that's irrefutable. There is plenty of evidence of that.

"So what's at issue is the magnitude of the problem, not that there is no problem."

As examples of voter fraud, Brooks pointed to his 1982 election to the Alabama legislature in which Brooks said some voting machines did not allow votes to be cast for him. Brooks defeated Eddie Albright even as Brooks called a midday news conference on voting day to bring attention to the voting irregularities.

Brooks said an investigation by the Alabama Bureau of Investigation confirmed that voting machines were not counting votes for him. But the ABI could not determine who caused the malfunction and no one was charged with a crime.

Brooks also cited a September 2016 decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia that removed a proof-of-citizenship requirement from a mail-in voter registration form used in three states, including Alabama.

And as a lawyer, Brooks said he was involved in a case in 1984 in DeKalb County where in one precinct, the Democratic candidate for superintendent got more votes than both Ronald Reagan and Walter Mondale in the presidential race as well as his Republican opponent.

But Brooks cautioned that his concern over illegal voting should not be translated into backing Trump's claim of 3 to 5 million illegal votes cast nationwide.

"I never said he was spot on about the 3 to 5 million," Brooks said. "I said he was spot on on the need to conduct the investigation and we need to stop illegal voting."

As for being caught up in the narrative that Trump is making allegations about the 3 to 5 million illegal voters without providing any evidence, Brooks said that's not a worry.

"I can't let the willingness of other people to lie about what I said deter me from saying truthful things," he said. "There are always going to be people who lie about what other people say. You can't let that deter you."

Updated Jan. 28, 2017, at 8:59 a.m. to clarify about Brooks' 1982 election.
It's been a year since host Steve Harvey famously announced the wrong person's name as the winner of Miss Universe 2016. Despite the blunder, Harvey is back Sunday night as the new Miss Universe is crowned.

Miss Universe 2017 will be broadcast live from the Mall of Asian Arena in Manila on Sunday (Jan. 29) starting at 7 p.m. ET (6 p.m. CT) on Fox. Livestreaming is available on FoxNow, DirectTVNOW and Sling with a subscription to those services.

Here's all you need to know about this year's pageant:

First, what happened last year?

Last year, Harvey originally announced Miss Colombia Ariadna Gutierrez had won with Pia Wurtzbach of the Philippines finishing as first runner-up. He soon realized the mistake and the crown was taken from Miss Columbia and given to Miss Philippines. It will be interesting to see the reception Harvey receives this year with the pageant in the Philippines.

Who are the contestants?

A total of 86 contestants from around the world take part in Miss Universe. Each competes in swimwear, evening gown and interview categories and those with the highest scores move on to the top 12.

What will we see Sunday night?

On Sunday, contestants will introduce themselves before the top 12 are announced. The finalists will compete in swimwear and evening gown before a question-and-answer portion.

Who is representing the U.S.?

Miss USA is the feeder system for the Miss Universe pageant. Miss USA 2017 is Deshauna Barber. The Georgia native was Miss District of Columbia in the 2016 Miss USA pageant before capturing the national title.

A lieutenant in the U.S. Army Reserves, Barber is the first active member in the military to be crowned Miss USA.

Who are the judges for Miss Universe 2017?

The judges are Miss Universe 1993 Dayanara Torres, Miss Universe 1994 Sushmita Sen, Miss Universe 2011 Leila Lopes, "Real Housewives of Atlanta" star Cynthia Bailey, Paper Magazine editorial director Mickey Boardman, and TV and film producer Francine LeFrak.

Can viewers vote?

Fans can vote for their favorites up to 10 times per day through Saturday through a registered account at vote.missuniverse.com, the official Miss U app, on Twitter by using #MissUniverse and the country specific hashtag found on the voting website, or by downloading the mobile messaging app Vodi. Those votes will be used to determine the top 12 finalists. On Sunday, viewers can vote 10 times for each round of competition.

Who will perform?

Flo Rida and Boys II Men will perform during the live show.

Was does the winner receive?

Miss Universe receives an annual salary with living expenses paid for a year. She also receives a personal appearance wardrobe and styling services, a year of travel to represent the pageant and representation by WME/IMG, parent company of The Miss Universe Organization.
Trump signs order.JPG

President Donald Trump signing an order related to the Keystone Pipeline. On Wednesday, he signed more orders related to immigration. (Contributed photo/White House)

In 1943, after the Associated Press reported that more than three million Jews had been "liquidated" by the Nazis, The Birmingham News published an editorial arguing that American outrage was "hollow expressions of sympathy" and that "non-Jewish Americans [had] an inescapable responsibility" to aid Jewish refugees.

The damning response followed a decade of inaction and ambivalence by the American people. In the 1930s, German Jews were desperate to get out of an increasingly hostile environment. Hundreds of thousands applied for visas to the United Kingdom, the United States and elsewhere. They were largely rejected by an unsympathetic American public.

Americans have long praised their country as a "cultural melting pot," but in 1924 Congress passed an Immigration Act designed "to preserve the ideal of U.S. homogeneity." For European immigrants, the law placed caps on immigration based on the number of people from that country already living in the United States, limited immigration from Africa and banned the immigration of Asians and Arabs. German immigration was limited to approximately 27,000 applicants per year during the 1930s. More than 300,000 German Jews applied seeking a way out.

However, each year, America did not meet its quota for German immigration.

"A lot of that was due to anti-Semitism in the State Department," says Dan J. Puckett, professor of History at Troy University and author of "In the Shadow of Hitler: Alabama Jews, the Second World War, and the Holocaust."

Jewish applicants "had to jump through so many hurdles. It was astounding."

"Between 1933-1939, only around 90,000 Jewish refugees entered the US. It's staggering how many were denied entry simply because they were Jewish. Only one year did we meet the quota, 1939. The actual quota from Germany was 25,957."

Puckett says that Americans were overwhelmingly sympathetic to the plight of German Jews but were equally unwilling to grant them refuge beyond the established quota. All around the country, Americans like Charles Lindbergh promoted efforts to put "America First." Politicians and writers suggested that the refugees might take American jobs or serve as a drain on the economy. Members of the FBI argued that German spies and insurrectionists could enter the United States disguised as refugees, spreading terror and mayhem through the country. Some argued that the Jews should go elsewhere in Europe or to British controlled Palestine - Israel was not yet established as an independent state. The plight of German Jews, while tragic, was not an American problem and should not be handled by Americans. In a 1939 poll, 61 percent of respondents rejected a proposal to accept 10,000 refugee children from Germany. That same year the United States turned away an ocean liner carrying 937 refugees.

US Jan 20 39: Should the US government permit 10,000 mostly Jewish refugee children to come in from Germany? pic.twitter.com/5cFs5RabQn  Historical Opinion (@HistOpinion) November 17, 2015

Six million Jews were killed during the Holocaust, including 254 of the people aboard that ship. Puckett says it's impossible that we could've saved all of them. The evil of Hitler was so singular and so unprecedented that even many German Jews "thought 'things can't get any worse' up until Kristallnacht and then they decided 'it will get worse.'" But even by meeting our quotas for German immigration, we could've saved tens of thousands of lives. And we could've saved the passengers of the St. Louis.

Real people died because of American prejudice and an imagined fear.

On Friday - which in a bitter irony was Holocaust Remembrance Day - President Donald Trump signed an executive order halting the refugee program for those seeking refuge in the United States. Already, about 450,000 Syrians have been killed since the country devolved into Civil War in 2011. Nearly five million have registered as refugees seeking aid, many of whom are women and children. Even prior to Trump's executive order, the United States had admitted just over 12,000 refugees in 2016. Twelve thousand people that went through extremely thorough vetting.

"It took over a year to get through policy. You're talking about a very limited number," said Puckett. "To be honest, I really think it's the fear of terrorism and xenophobia that's driving our anti-Muslim immigration policy."

History repeats itself. As do excuses.

"We can't be sure that the refugees aren't really terrorists in disguise."

"This is tragic, but they should go to Saudi Arabia or somewhere else. This isn't an American problem."

"We need to put America First."

While we imagine dire scenarios of America under attack (refugees from the countries targeted by this ban are not responsible for American terrorism), real people are dying daily. Real people who are desperate for a lifeline. And we are closing the door. We are closing the door on people like my friend Karim's sister who has been seeking refuge for years; and my wife's best friend Roda, an Assyrian Christian who still has family trapped in Iran. We are closing the door on future generations and we are closing the door on American humanity.

"Never again must such a holocaust sear mankind," wrote the Birmingham News in 1943. "It is not too much to say that by her tangible response to this unspeakable heartlessness will America prove she has learned the lesson of this war."

Apparently we haven't.

Updated at 8:20 a.m. on January 28, 2017 to include a link to a New York Times story about refugee totals. Updated at 11:07 a.m. to correct an error that misapplied the term "asylum" to refugee status. Asylum is a separate policy.
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At a red carpet roll-out event here Friday for the upcoming 23rd Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards ceremony, Hollywood stars expressed their excitement over the Chinese Year of the Rooster.

"I want to wish all of you happy Chinese New Year, the Year of the Rooster, woo-hoo!" Hollywood star Missi Pyle, who was nominated by the SAG for her performance in the motion picture "Captain Fantastic," told Xinhua.

Marcus Scribner, a nominee for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series for "Black-ish," told Xinhua that he knew this Friday was the eve of the Chinese New Year.

"Happy Chinese New Year," he said with a big smile.

"Happy New Year, the Year of the Rooster," Kathy Connell, executive producer of the SAG Awards, told Xinhua reporters Friday morning.

Other Hollywood stars, including Jean-Claude Van Damme, Ellen DeGeneres, Gal Gadot and Chris Pine, also posted their Chinese New Year greetings on social media.

The SAG Awards ceremony is scheduled to be held on Sunday at Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles.
Differences in how the two countries have treated the persecuted Rohingya could not be more stark.

Kutupalong makeshift camp in Coxs Bazaar, southeastern Bangladesh, was the first refugee camp I ever visited.

It was 2010, and I remember being viscerally struck by the stench of paths that felt paved with sewage; the atmosphere of fear among the Rohingya refugees inside; and the claustrophobic crush of mud huts and tents packed so tightly together that they looked like they were built on top of each other.





The conditions at that camp, home to about 100,000 Rohingya at the time, were the worst I had seen anywhere  and not much has changed since.

Years later, on a trip to several camps in northern and southern Thailand  also home to thousands of refugees from Myanmar  a very different sight lay in wait.

The people there still lead a hard life, but the conditions are not inhumane. Their camps are organised, relatively spacious, and clean.

Now, the Thai government is moving forward on a project with the European Union, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and local NGOs to provide support to undocumented Myanmar Muslims  most of them Rohingya refugees  by improving access to basic services like education and healthcare.

The project will address the needs of Myanmar Muslims, but will also cover disadvantaged Thais who live in the same areas, including hill tribe communities whose living standards are far below the rest of the people in the country.

Keep in mind that Thailands Education for All policy means that in theory undocumented migrant children should be able to go to school anyway. This project is an effort to stamp out the obstacles that still remain, to make access smoother.

Southeast Bangladesh, home to the Rohingya camps and settlements, is also among the worst performers in the country when it comes to sanitation, nutrition and education.

But the Bangladesh government has always resisted international efforts to provide services to the Rohingya, which would also have a knock on effect on the underprivileged Bangladeshis who live around there.

International cooperation



Neither Bangladesh nor Thailand are signatories to the United Nations 1951 Refugee Convention, the key legal document underpinning refugee rights around the world. Yet the differences in how the two countries have treated the persecuted Rohingya could not be more stark.

Thailand is a richer country than Bangladesh and is less densely populated. But that doesnt fully explain away the differences.

What Thailand has done  with the Karen, Kachin and Shan refugees who came earlier from Myanmar, and the Rohingya refugees later  is to engage with the refugee population and operate using a framework of international cooperation.

Organisations such the The Border Consortium, a group of nine international NGOs, and others play a large role in administering the camps in Thailand.

We work closely with the Thai government, because it always becomes an issue of national law and how the national law allows undocumented migrants to access services, says Chiaki Lee, the projects manager at IOM.

And we also work closely with local NGOs, because they are the ones that provide community-based services.

READ MORE: Bangladesh refuses Rohingya fleeing ethnic cleansing

The Bangladesh government, on the other hand, seems to have settled on the tactic of sticking their head in the sand and hoping the problem will go away.

After 25 years, it still hasnt.

The first big wave of Rohingya refugees came to Bangladesh in the early 1990s. Many more have arrived after violence in 2012, and then again in 2016.

Estimates of Rohingya population in Bangladesh varies from 300,000 to 600,000.

For the Rohingya and the NGOs supporting them, there is little clarity on what the government is thinking.

Right to education

Organisations like Doctors Without Borders and the UN Refugee Agency tiptoe around the camps trying to get their work done, constantly worried about having access cut off if the government gets offended or just changes its mind on a whim.

This has severe repercussions. Far from trying to make access to education smoother, Rohingya children in Bangladesh dont have any right to education at all, unless they are one of the roughly 20,000-30,000 people living in two official UN refugee camps, in which case they get to study until they are 12. No secondary education is allowed.

Rohingya refugees have to sneak their children to school outside their camps, or set up illegal schools inside  always worried it might get shut down.

Forget the other stuff thats part of the EU-IOM project in Thailand  access to legal aid, livelihood support, and protection against domestic violence.

Some Bangladeshi officials recognise the problem thats brewing.

How long can you treat people like this? asked a senior official at the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics who was involved in carrying out a recent census of the Rohingya population. He asked not to be named because he was worried about a backlash from his superiors.

They must be so resentful toward us. Is it smart to have this large group of people in the middle of your country growing more and more resentful by the day?
Electing the next new chair for the AU Commission, what type of leader is required to take the continent forward?

The African Union, the 54-member state continental body, will on Monday elect a new commission chairperson to replace outgoing leader Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, who is not seeking a second term after finishing her four-year-tenure.

Heads of states and dignitaries have been arriving in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, where the AU is based, to attend the continental summit and to lobby for their preferred candidate for Africas top job.

Five candidates are in the running to replace Dlamini-Zuma, a former South African minister and first female AU leader, who is thought to be seeking to replace her former husband, President Jacob Zuma, as South Africas fourth democratically elected president since the end of apartheid in 1994.

So who are the candidates seeking to lead the AU over the next four years?

Amina Mohamed, Kenyas foreign minister

Widely seen as a front-runner for the job, Amina has the backing of almost all Anglophone countries.

Amina, who was UNEPs deputy executive director before she took her current post, is well-known as one of the most vocal critics of the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Since her appointment as Kenyas top diplomat in 2013, Amina has continually criticised the Hague-based court on how it handles African cases, especially those involving sitting heads of state.

Her anti-ICC stance has won her many supporters. She successfully campaigned to get the ICC to drop its cases against Kenyas President Uhuru Kenyatta, and his deputy, William Ruto.

Amina, 55, also served in the World Trade Organization and is seen by many as the candidate to obtain for Africa better trade agreements with the rest of the world.

Abdoulaye Bathily, Senegalese diplomat and academic

Bathily is seen by many analysts as a strong candidate for the AU chair seat. He served as a UN mediator in the Central African Republic and Burundi. Bathily has strong support from Morocco, which could complicate his bid.

Morocco, the only country in the continent that is not part of the AU, withdrew from the union in 1984 to protest against the admission of disputed Western Sahara territories.

Ghana would also prefer to see someone else other than Bathily as AU chair. Accra is campaigning for its former Deputy Foreign Minister Thomas Kwesi Quartey to get the deputy chair position. Quartey cannot obtain the position if Bathily becomes the chair because AU protocol forbids two candidates from the same region from holding the two most senior posts of the organisation at the same time.

Another headache for Bathilys bid is that Nigeria  the West African powerhouse and the continents biggest economy and most populous country  is seeking the position of Peace and Security Commissioner, which Abuja will not get due to protocol if Bathily gets the AU chair post.

Algeria, Moroccos foe, would also rather have anyone at the AUs top table rather than Rabats man. But Senegal can still count on the support of many fellow Francophone countries.

Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chadian foreign minister

Mahamat is another candidate showing a strong possibility of snatching the seat from the favourites, Amina and Bathily. The 56-year-old and father-of-five is not new to the workings of the AU after previously serving as the bodys chair of the AUs Economic, Social and Cultural Council.

Before taking up his current post, Mahamat was his countrys prime minister. His boss, Chadian President Idriss Deby, who has ruled the country since coming to power in 1990, is the current chairperson of the AU.

As the AU chair, Deby, who is not on the good books of rights groups for alleged repression of critics, wields great power within the organisation.

The candidacy of two Francophones  Chadian and Senegalese  for the top seats will also not help Faki or Bathily as it could potentially lead to a split in Francophone countries votes.

Pelonomi Venson-Moitoi, a veteran politician from Botswana

A veteran politician from Botswana and a close ally of President Seretse Khama, Venson-Moitoi is also in the running to be the AUs chairperson, although it is predicted she has only a small chance of winning the seat.

Venson-Moitoi, 65, is the current foreign minister of the diamond-producing southern African country.

The former journalist-turned-politician has served in her countrys cabinet since 2001.

Mba Mokuy, Served as a senior adviser to Equatorial Guineas President

Mokuys chance of becoming the chairperson is believed to be even slimmer than Venson-Moitois.

Before landing his current post, Mokuy, 51, served as a senior adviser to President Teodoro Obiang.

Mokuys boss, President Obiang, has ruled the former Spanish colony for the past 37 years and is the continents longest-ruling leader.

Follow Hamza Mohamed on Twitter: @Hamza_Africa
Multiple generations of Lebanese have made their home in Nigeria. Some are the descendants of migrants who arrived in West Africa as early as the 19th century, leaving behind their small Middle Eastern nation in search of opportunities elsewhere.

Members of this Lebanese diaspora  from fourth-generation Nigerian nationals to recent arrivals  share their experiences of life in Africas most populous nation.

Tatiana Mousalli Nouri

Tatiana Mousalli Nouri, 38, is fourth-generation Lebanese, raised in Nigeria. She is the deputy group managing director for Aim Group, a family-run conglomerate with offices across the country, which includes broadcasters Cool FM and Wazobia FM.

She also heads Wazobia TV, which is the only Nigerian channel to broadcast exclusively in pidgin English. Tatiana is married with three children.

I was born in London, in the UK, but was conceived and raised in Nigeria. I have been here all of my life because my mums family has been in Nigeria for a very long time, since 1886. My great grandfather, Michael Lelias, left Lebanon in 1886 on his way to Brazil.

The boat stopped by Nigeria before heading to Brazil. Back then I think it was fashionable to go to Brazil.

The story goes that he did not have enough money to make the trip to Brazil, so he basically stopped in Nigeria and made it home. He worked for many years as a cattle trader. Then he went back to Lebanon, got married and brought back his wife. Thats how my grandfather was born here.

My grandmother on my mothers side of the family was born in the Republic of Benin, in Porto-Novo. My mother grew up here when she was a child as well, left for secondary school and then came back.

My father always says that we are civilised nomads because of his and my mothers heritage. Weve always been nomads, going from one place to another.

Im Lebanese maybe by blood, if I can use that word. When people ask me, Where are you from? I will say Nigerian, because this is what I know, this is where I grew up, this is where my memories are.

We are not real Nigerians, according to some people. When people tell me, No, you are not Nigerian, I can defend my Nigerian roots more than everyone. But were usually embraced.

In Nigeria there is a code that says all media owners must be Nigerian. We are Nigerian, meaning my parents are Nigerian, my sister and I are Nigerian. My brother-in-law is Nigerian  he was born and raised in Kano, a city in the north of the country. We feel very much Nigerian. However, the colour of our skin is very different.

When we launched Wazobia FM, in 2007, and it was in pidgin English, no presenter out there wanted to audition to be a pidgin English presenter, because it was not done in Nigeria. We used cleaners and cooks from our cafe, Chocolat Royal. We said, Just go and talk.

READ MORE: Inside the elite world of Nigerian polo

We still have some of the cleaners that have grown with the station. Its gone further than we expected.

Everybody has embraced it. Even though we still get some criticism, by a small amount of people that tell us that we are teaching pidgin English to the future generations. If you want to be educated, put your kids in school. Wazobia is really a medium; its just a language that we use to communicate a message.

Nigeria has this vibe, this thing that when you come here there is something that hooks you to the country. I dont know what it is.

A lot of my friends that live here feel the same way. The potential that there is in this country, there is nowhere else. There is this dynamism, and there is hope. There is a very bright future for the generations ahead.

Loubna Fakhri-Baker

Loubna Fakhri-Baker, 32, is the executive chef of the Lagos-based restaurant Craft Gourmet, which she co-founded with her husband, Tarek Baker. Loubna was born and raised in Senegal but moved to Nigeria in 2008. She has a daughter.

In 1939 my grandfather moved to Senegal along with a big community of Lebanese people. My father told me that they were supposed to go to South America, but the boat stopped in Senegal and they started doing business there and stayed. Senegal is a very nice country to live in and the population there is very welcoming.

I was born and raised in Dakar. We consider ourselves Senegalese. Every Friday or Saturday the family would sit around a thiebou jen (a spicy stuffed fish served with rice), which is the national dish. We cook yassa (a spicy chicken or fish dish) every day. We speak Senegalese, we eat Senegalese, I travel with the Senegalese passport, and we bury our dead in Senegal. We became Senegalese.

French is my mother tongue. I also speak English, Wolof, and Spanish. I dont speak Arabic well. When I go to Lebanon and I open my mouth and say Bonjour or Marhaba, people say, Oh, shes from Africa because of my accent.

I want to go back to Lebanon to live  go back to my roots. Whether its a good or bad experience I dont care. I want to understand where Im from.

Im Lebanese by blood but I sometimes feel closer to my Senegalese friends than my Lebanese friends from around the world. However, theres still something that doesnt make me feel completely Senegalese. I had a complex about it. When I talk to Lebanese people Im not Lebanese, but when I talk to Senegalese, Im not quite Senegalese for them. Im still the white girl in their country.

I met my husband in Lebanon when I went there for holidays. He was living in Lagos and then he moved to Abuja. When he moved to Abuja we got married and I followed him. After I got pregnant, Boko Haram attacks started to happen in Abuja so when I wanted to deliver we went back to Senegal. We stayed a bit, but we were missing the energy of Nigeria.

When we first came to Lagos my husband was working as a financial controller and I was thinking about what I wanted to do in the food industry because I have a diploma from Ecole hoteliere de Lausanne (a Swiss hospitality management school). I knew that I wanted to work in that field.

READ MORE: Peju Alatise  The Nigerian artist transcending barriers

Craft Gourmet was a concept made by me, but then I felt it was too hard to do it alone and my husband decided to quit his job to join me. He takes care of purchasing and financial control and Im the executive chef.

Its not easy to live in Nigeria. You are outside your comfort zone every day, fighting and struggling. What I love the most about Nigeria is that I became an adult in Nigeria. In Senegal I was not. Life was too easy. Here Ive been challenged. Everyone is hustling here.

Here, if you dont do something, you feel like a loser. For me theres this energy of feeling alive, of getting something fixed every day.

Eddie Bahnam

Eddie Bahnam, 41, works in supply chain management and business development at Beamco Nigeria, an engineering services company with interests across oil and gas services, construction and commodity trading. He moved to Nigeria 15 years ago and lives in Lagos with his wife and two children. He is currently applying for Nigerian citizenship.

I was born and raised in Lebanon. I practically lived there all my life except during the civil war when we had to go to Paris for three years because we couldnt even go to school in Lebanon. After that I returned to Beirut.

After my Masters in Business Administration in Lebanon I was on my way to a job in Switzerland but coincidence led me to my future boss in Nigeria. I thought to hell with Europe. I didnt want to work for a big corporation. I wanted a much more flexible structure where you can make an impact.

I didnt know anyone in Nigeria. I remember vividly, from the airport all the way to Apapa (a neighbourhood in Lagos) I saw people walking. Whether on a bridge, or on a street or on a major road, you had a lot of people everywhere.

I never had the intention to stay. I said, Let me come here for three years. Then, it was very difficult for me to leave because at that time Nigeria was booming. Then I met my wife who was also working on a project in Lagos and here I am 15 years later. Three years became 15. I dont regret that decision.

In the beginning there was a lot of frustration because youre not used to taking care of your own power supply, providing your own water. When I first came there were absolutely no malls or cinemas. There were probably three or four major clubs that people would go to and the roads were tiny. Now, theres an abundance of malls everywhere. Shoprite (a supermarket chain) is everywhere, in every mall theres a movie theatre and theres a list of restaurants popping up every month.

READ MORE: From illiterate child bride to famous Nigerian novelist

There are cliches. Nigeria has the tag of being corrupt or unsafe but this is just because of mass media. I feel much safer here than in Paris after 10 oclock at night. I dont care how foreigners or the media depicts Nigeria or generally West Africa. People are super-friendly. The sense of community is much stronger here. You will get help if you encounter trouble on the street, whereas in Europe nobody will care. Corruption  I think its blown out of proportion.

I would say I sometimes look at how I lived my childhood and I compare it to what my children are going through. Nigeria is a great place to raise children; however, the most basic things are lacking. I remember when I was four years old, I could go with my friends down the street and maybe go buy a chocolate or walk to my neighbours house. These are the things you cant do here. Any time you want to step out of the gates of the compound, you have to be escorted.

Ive managed to integrate into the social fabric of at least Lagos. I have a lot of Nigerian friends and that might make me different from others within the Lebanese community. Some Lebanese choose to stay within the Lebanese community but these are a minority.

Most Lebanese are well integrated into Nigerian society. I feel Im welcome in every house, in every party, in every event.
Indian Supreme Courts ban on the use of caste in politics is admirable, but its practicality needs to be questioned.

C S Dwarakanath is former Chairman of Karnataka State Commission for Backward Classes and a public intellectual.

In the first days of this year, in a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court of India banned political candidates from seeking election on the basis of caste, religion and language. On the surface, this ruling seems to be appealing to secular voters, upholding the secular values of the constitution and implementing the principles of democracy.

But it also seems to be contradicting a 1995 Supreme Court ruling which considered Hindutva (Hindu nationalism) and Hinduism a way of life, rather than an ideology that belongs to a certain caste or religion. The court has been silent on reviewing the Hindutva issue.

There has been praise from seculars on the ruling and respect for the judiciary has further increased among ordinary people. But while the verdict is indeed an important new development, there are still questions about its practicality because caste, like religion, remains an integral part of Indian society.





Caste is everything

India is a nation of caste and religion. It is a nation where caste is policy. Upper caste policy is to move upwards, while lower castes continually struggle in their lowly status.

Everything that happens here is based on caste. At every stage of our life, caste becomes important. We are unable to understand what is going on in the country if we disregard caste. We also see Justice T S Thakur, who delivered the court ruling, through the eyes of caste because the surname, Thakur, also represents a caste.

When caste is so integral in our society how can we separate caste and religion  a solid foundation  from politics and elections?

There are three main parties in India today: the Congress Party, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Communist Party. The Congress and BJP are outwardly secular parties. The BJP promotes itself as the party for Hindus, and on caste issues it says it is secular. However they choose to self-define, if we search further, we find that the soul of these parties is brahminical, i.e. belonging to the highest caste.

The prominence of caste also applies to politics before Indias independence. Priestly Brahmins who controlled the Bania caste  which had close business connections with them  have unjustly benefited from the new political reality, and that is why Indias politics is called Brahmin-Bania politics.

IN PICTURES: In the name of Ram  Tattoos in Indias Dalit community

If we observe regional parties, we notice that one way or the other the foundation of these parties is also caste or religion. For instance, Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Rashtriya Janata Dal Party (RJD) are supported by the Yadav community; Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) is supported by Dalits; Shriomani Akali Dal by Sikhs Telugu Desam Party by Kamma; YSR Congress Party by Reddy; Janata Dal (S) by Vokkaliga.

The Congress, BJP, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, All India Trinamool Congress and other parties also depend on caste and religion of the region where they operate.

Muslims as a minority have always participated in party politics since before independence. Engaging in politics for the welfare of their community is their right. Just like the All-India Muslim League in the first half of the 20th century, new parties like the Social Democratic Party have emerged to carry on similar politics with a religious element.

Caste is a reality in this nation - political power has always been with the minority upper castes and the same situation continues today. by

The identity of politics

Indias politics has been defined as integration of caste and consolidation of resources.

Caste is a reality in this nation  political power has always been with the minority upper castes and the same situation continues today.

OPINION: Dreaming again for equality in India

The majority of Dalit Bahujans, religious minorities or Adivasis have never ascended to positions of power. Keeping this in mind B R Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian constitution, famously said, The root of untouchability is the caste system; the root of the caste system is religion attached to varnashramam, and the root of varnashramam is Brahminical religion, and the root of the Brahminical religion is authoritarianism or political power.

How can the Bahujans, without engaging in caste politics, escape this brahminical hold and achieve power? Ram Manohar Lohia, an Indian socialist, once said, Caste is a reality in India. It always crystallises but never liquefies.





All about power

Isnt coming to power based on the demolition of Babri Masjid not politics? And what about using the Gujarat riots for political gain? Isnt it a political game giving a coat of nationalism to beef eating and the food habits of minorities and Dalit Bahujan?

When Bahujan politics are responding adequately to all of this, and organising effectively, we need to be aware of the politics behind this Supreme Court decision. These people have come to power based on the politics of caste and religion, and have experienced everything.

Just when the lower strata of society have achieved some realisation and started indulging in Bahujan politics, will judgement like this not create hurdles?

We have reservations based on caste, and on this basis, seats are allocated to state legislative assembly and parliament with the seal of the constitution. This is direct caste politics. What does the Supreme Court say on this?

Caste is not to be looked at simplistically. It is the identity of Adivasi, nomadic and Dalit people, and because of this Kanshi Ram, a politician who wanted to annihilate the caste system, came up with this slogan: Jaati Todo Samaj Jodo (Leave caste, unite society).

An important statement from him is a fitting response to the current judgement: Manuvadis ruled India by dividing castes, but I am going to rule India by uniting castes.

C S Dwarakanath, lawyer at the High Court of Karnataka, is former Chairman of Karnataka State Commission for Backward Classes and is an influential public intellectual.

This article was translated from Kannada by Sridhar Gowda.

The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial policy.
The Russian ruling elite is hoping it would be able to negotiate a new world order with Trump.

The inauguration of Donald J Trump as the 45th President of the United States caused anger, anxiety, and demonstrations across the world. Few were the countries that celebrated the event. Unsurprisingly, Russia was one of those few (Israel being another).

Both the elites and the ordinary people in Russia greeted the new US president, and even some in the political opposition saw the potential for positive developments under his administration.

The reason for Russias warm welcome of President Trump had nothing to do with claims in the US media that he was a Kremlin agent or that Russian hackers helped him win the election. It had much more to do with expectations among the elites, the ordinary people, and even the intelligentsia, of a new direction in US-Russian relations that would de-escalate internal and external tensions and favour their interests.

Negotiating a new world order

Many times during the past decade Russian President Vladimir Putin and his subordinates claimed that the world order that emerged after the collapse of the socialist camp and the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 was not only unjust but also illegitimate.





There were no new foundational documents and institutions to replace those created at the end of World War II with the Yalta Conference. In the eyes of the Russian leadership, no country signed any obligation to consider the United States the only superpower and therefore nobody should comply with its leadership.

This logic explains the confrontations over Ukraine and Syria. For the Kremlin, both were used to demonstrate that there are red lines and that there is a need for a new world order. Russian foreign policy analysts have repeatedly claimed that the new US president might be ready to negotiate the creation of a new system of international relations to replace Yalta and the current unipolar model.

The new Yalta would redistribute spheres of responsibility to recognised great powers. The Kremlin, of course, sees Russia as one of them (alongside with the US, China, and perhaps Europe).

Among the ruling elite, there is also a much more modest expectation from Trump concerning matters of self-interest. Since at least 2014, after the annexation of Crimea and Russian support to the anti-Kiev rebels in Eastern Ukraine, many members of the ruling class experienced the effects of sanctions targeting them. With Trump in the White House, they expect the sanctions to be lifted, if he indeed wants to start a new chapter in Russian-US relations.

A sigh of relief

Ordinary Russians were also pleased with Trumps victory. Part of the peoples joy we can blame on the extensively flattering coverage of his campaign and victory in the Russian media, but there were also very concrete reasons for it.

One is, again, hope for lifting of the economic sanctions. Ironically enough, ordinary Russians are actually suffering much more from the counter-sanctions on trade imposed by the Russian government on the EU and the US, which effectively raised the prices of basic goods and eliminated some types of quality foodstuffs from grocery stores.

OPINION: The inevitable Trumputin divorce

Still, with this new stage in the Russian-US relations, those counter-sanctions could be lifted as well. But even if the sanctions remain in place, improving relations with the US does come as a relief for the Russian people. The confrontations of the past two years encouraged not only patriotic feelings among Russians, but also feelings of anxiety. In the early fall of 2016, discussions in the Russian public space about the possibility of war with the US started for the first time since the Cold War. Trumps victory was perceived as a sign that at least there will be no war.

America is foe no more

The opposition intelligentsia in Russia is mostly sympathetic to their US peers, the Democrats, in academia and the NGO community, and they also despise Donald Trumps politics and style.

But even the opposition took a breath of relief with Trumps victory. The fact is that since the winter protests of 2011-2012 against the rigged elections and the return of Putin to the presidency, the Russian regime has used the strategy of smearing its critics by accusing them of links to evil American influences.





That led to a legal, political, and media pressure on activists, many of whom have emigrated since 2012, and on independent civil society organisations which were subject to restrictions by a new foreign agents law. Thus, hostile relations with the US were instrumental in subduing the independent civil society. Nobody knows whether the regime will cease using this approach, but it would make sense to do so after America stops being a foe.

Even within the more radical opposition that would call such a consideration a Stockholm syndrome, there are some hopes that President Trump will prove to be a more difficult partner for Putin. This faction considered Barack Obamas foreign policy a failure, not because it alienated Putin and imposed sanctions, but because that policy did not bring the desired results. They claim that Obamas perceived weakness encouraged Putin to adopt more aggressive policies both at home and abroad, and they hope Trump will be a tough Republican keeping Putin quiet.

Time will tell what direction US-Russian relations will embark on. But if history is to have any predictive value, we should not be too optimistic. Both George W Bush and Barack Obama started their presidencies with rapprochement between the two countries  Bush looked into Putins eyes and saw his soul, while Obama was eager for a reset policy. Both ended their second terms at a low point in relations (with the Russia-Georgia war in 2008 and with Syria and the hacking scandal in 2016, respectively).

Will this pattern be repeated with President Trump; will we witness a honeymoon for a year or two and the return to hostility in the longer term? The probability is high, but nothing is for sure.

After all, we know that the Trump presidency will be over in 2020 or 2024, but dont know when the Putin presidency will end. It may happen before Trumps term expires. And that would definitely open a new chapter in the troubled Russian-US relations.

Ivan Kurilla is a professor of history at the European University at Saint Petersburg.

The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial policy.
Eritrea does not have a war or famine, but hundreds cross the border into Ethiopia every day.

Eritrea does not have a war or famine, but it accounts for the second largest number of asylum seekers arriving in Europe after Syria.

Many Eritreans also make the dangerous trek across their border to find refuge in Ethiopia.

Most of those fleeing are young people who say they want to avoid conscription, a compulsory exercise for both men and women.

Al Jazeeras Mohammed Adow reports from Shire in northern Ethiopia.
Tens of thousands convene in the US capital, spurred on by Donald Trump who has vowed to end taxpayer-funded abortion.

Tens of thousands of anti-abortion activists marched in the US capital, Washington, DC, spurred on by the election of Donald Trump who has vowed to end taxpayer-funded abortion.

Vice President Mike Pence, a longtime supporter of the anti-abortion movement, was the most senior government official to speak at Fridays rally.

Life is winning again in America, Pence told the demonstrators who hoisted signs saying Choose life, I am the pro-life generation and Equal Rights For Unborn People.





Pence, who as governor of Indiana signed some of the nations strictest abortion laws, praised the election of pro-life majorities in the Congress of the United States of America.

On Tuesday, Trump signalled his intention to nominate an anti-abortion justice to the Supreme Court and has already revived an old policy banning funding for groups abroad that pay for abortions or provide information about abortion.

Al Jazeeras Shihab Rattansi, reporting from the rally in Washington, DC, said many of the protesters were optimistic that they had an ally in the new president.

Many of the protesters hope that a Trump-nominated justice will help overturn the landmark Roe v Wade ruling in 1973 that a woman has the right to make her own medical decisions without any interference from politicians, he said.

Trump has said Roe v Wade should be overturned. He has also pledged to defund Planned Parenthood, which draws the ire of many Republicans because it provides abortions, along with other services.

READ MORE: Dangerously cheap: Kenyas illegal abortions

Dana Tilson, the Kenya director for Marie Stopes International, a family-planning clinic, told Al Jazeera that cutting funding to abortion providers could see poor women across the world turn to dangerous methods to end their pregnancies.

If women and girls are denied safe options, they will seek any method to end a pregnancy, she said.

They will go to the streets and will be served by unskilled providers who use chemicals and sticks and other mechanisms that will damage their reproductive organs and some cases result in them bleeding to death.

The rally comes as the number of US abortions has fallen to a record low. The Guttmacher Institute, a reproductive health and rights organisation, said last week that it dropped below 1 million in 2013 for the first time since 1975.

A Quinnipiac University poll released on Friday showed that 64 percent of Americans say abortion should be legal in all or most cases, while 31 percent said it should be illegal in all or most cases.
Frustration boils as new US president signs executive order banning immigration from several Muslim-majority countries.

Disgraceful, a travesty, racist.

These were some of the words used to describe a measure signed off by US President Donald Trump that suspends immigration from several Muslim-majority countries, and indefinitely bans Syrians  including refugees  from entering the United States.

Closing off his first week in office, Trump signed the order on Friday at the Pentagon, saying the move would help protect Americans from terrorist attacks.

Trumps latest executive order is likely to hurt the people most in need: those fleeing violence and terrorism  and on Holocaust Remembrance Day, no less, said Grace Meng, senior US researcher at Human Rights Watch. The decision to drastically curtail the refugee programme will abandon tens of thousands to the risk of persecution or worse and cede American leadership on a vitally important issue.

READ MORE: Trump signs executive order banning Syrian refugees

Following Trumps signing, the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), a US Muslim advocacy and civil rights group, said it would file a federal lawsuit on behalf of more than 20 individuals challenging the Muslim ban'.

There is no evidence that refugees  the most thoroughly vetted of all people entering our nation  are a threat to national security, said Lena Masri, CAIRs national litigation director. This is an order that is based on bigotry, not reality.

The state department said the three-month ban in the directive applied to Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen  all Muslim-majority nations.

The needs of refugees and migrants worldwide have never been greater and the US resettlement program is one of the most important in the world, said the United Nations refugee agency and International Organization for Migration (IOM) in a joint statement.

Here is a collection of posts describing the orders effect and decrying the move, which many have said in part fulfils Trumps campaign promise to place a ban on Muslims entering the country.

With a pen stroke, a wedding is missed, a eulogy isn't spoken, a job is not taken, a family is left broken, safety isn't found. #MuslimBan  Remi Kanazi (@Remroum) January 28, 2017

Disappointed at media headlines referring to #MuslimBan using Trump's "radical Islamic terrorists" frame. Say it for what it is: racism.  Mai El-Sadany (@maitelsadany) January 27, 2017

American foreign policy has played active role in creating the same refugees that we are now banning & denying a safe home. 1/2 #MuslimBan  Kashif N Chaudhry (@KashifMD) January 25, 2017

Mark my words: Even after the #MuslimBan, many Democrats will still continue to cooperate with Trump. Tells you everything you need to know.  Professor Fleming is elsewhere (@alwaystheself) January 28, 2017

https://twitter.com/KhaledBeydoun/status/825190496607813633

#MuslimBan, wall, undoc immigrant crime list, false urban crime stats- ALL targeted efforts to dehumanize people of color. Q is to what end?  Kumar Rao (@KumarRaoNYC) January 28, 2017

Can you hear that? It's Democrats not promising to nullify/repeal Trump's #MuslimBan executive order.  not sarah harvard (@amyharvard_) January 28, 2017

Pence, Ryan, Mattisall slammed #MuslimBan during campaign, all now supporting Trump implement it. Wonder why no trust in politicians?  Mehdi Hasan (@mehdirhasan) January 28, 2017

We've lost something very precious. And traded it for a cowardly, foolish illusion of safety. I'm ashamed.#MuslimBan  Adam McKay (@GhostPanther) January 28, 2017

The #MuslimBan is not about national security, its about White supremacy & the invented threats craven leaders use to justify its existence.  #RIPBassemMasri  (@Delo_Taylor) January 28, 2017

Relevant to all of us who truly believe in justice and dignity for all #solidarity #muslimban https://t.co/CeYISW9T62  Ava DuVernay (@ava) January 28, 2017

These are the bloodthirsty terrorists Trump is outlawing. The #MuslimBan is an absolute immoral, inhumane disgrace. https://t.co/naxWb3BJTz pic.twitter.com/ocGwDFviqi  Ashley Spencer (@AshleyySpencer) January 28, 2017

"#Trumps Executive Order is a Travesty"  2hrs since #MuslimBan was signed, still no sign of the final text. https://t.co/f6LJoTIlKi  NIAC Action PAC (@NIACActionPAC) January 27, 2017
The World Food Programme (WFP) has slashed food rations distributed to 1.4 million displaced Iraqis by 50 percent because of delays in payments from donor states.

The sharp cutbacks come at a time when a growing number of Iraqis flee the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS) group.

We by Safa

in order to have a chance to live and now they have cut the aid. How are we supposed to live?]

At least 160,000 people have been displaced since October when the Iraqi military, backed by Kurdish forces and Shia militias. launched a military campaign to recapture Mosul from the armed group.

WFP spokeswoman Inger Marie Vennize said the UN agency was talking to the United States  its biggest donor, Germany, Japan and others to secure funds to restore full rations.

We have had to reduce [the rations] as of this month, she was quoted by the Reuters news agency as saying.

The 50 percent cuts in monthly rations affect over 1.4 million people across Iraq, she added.

The effect is already being felt in camps east of Mosul, ISILs last major bastion in northern Iraq.

They are giving an entire family the food supply of one person  we want to go back home, said Omar Shukri Mahmoud at the Hassan Sham camp.

Safa Shaker, who fled with her extended family, said: We are a big family and this ration is not going to be enough.

We escaped from [ISIL] in order to have a chance to live and now they have cut the aid. How are we supposed to live? she added.

Mosul is still home to nearly 1.5 million people, who are at risk of being caught up in brutal urban warfare.

An estimated 650,000 people live without potable water in the city and the UN has warned of a potential humanitarian crisis and a refugee exodus.
Carriers refuse to fly nationals from seven Muslim-majority countries to the US, after Trumps ban comes into effect.

US President Donald Trumps order banning arrivals from several Muslim-majority countries has come into effect, with some airlines already stopping would-be passengers from flying to the United States.

In a move that sparked widespread international criticism, Trump on Friday signed a sweeping executive order to suspend the arrival of refugees and impose tough new controls on travellers from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Syria and Yemen.





In some of the countries affected by the restrictions, would-be travellers preparing family visits, work trips or seeking to escape war reported chaotic disruption to their plans, with some saying they had been humiliated.

Some were already in the air when Trump signed the measure and were detained on arrival, according to The New York Times.

In Egypt, five Iraqi nationals and one Yemeni were prohibited from boarding an Egypt Air flight that was bound to New York from Cairos international airport on Saturday morning.

The six passengers, who were headed for John F. Kennedy International Airport, were reportedly prevented from boarding despite holding valid immigration visas.

In The Netherlands, the Dutch flag carrier, KLM, said it had stopped seven passengers from boarding its flights, five of whom it had been able to contact before departure. The identities of the seven, their countries of origin and destinations were not given.

We would have liked to have had them fly with us, but it would not have made much sense because they would have been denied entry to the US, KLM spokesman Manel Vrijenhoek told AFP news agency.

In Canada, WestJet Airlines said it turned back a passenger bound for the US on Saturday in order to comply with an executive order that prohibits people from seven Muslim-majority countries from entering the US.

WestJet spokeswoman Lauren Stewart said the airline would give full refunds to anyone affected by the US executive order. It did not say which country the passenger had come from.

READ MORE: Syrian family decries Trumps ban on refugees

In Irans capital, Tehran, two travel agencies told AFP they had been instructed by Etihad Airways, Emirates and Turkish Airlines not to sell US tickets or allow Iranians holding American visas to board US-bound flights.

Qatar Airways on Saturday issued a travel alert on their official website, saying nationals of the seven countries may travel to the US only if they are in possession of a permanent resident card [green card] or any of the below visas, listing foreign government, United Nations, international organisation and NATO visas.

Across the Middle East, people reacted with fury, saying the travel curbs were insulting and discriminatory.

Its not right to portray huge groups of Arabs and Muslims as possible terrorists, Najeeb Haidari, a Yemeni American security manager in Yemen, told Reuters news agency.

This is a stupid, terrible decision which will hurt the American people more than us or anybody else, because it shows that this president cant manage people, politics or global relationships.

READ MORE: Hassan Rouhani  Now is not the time to build walls

In Baghdad, Bayan Adil, a doctor working in the Iraqi Health Ministry who applied for a US visa to attend a medical seminar, said Iraqi academics should visit Europe instead of the US, where they were no longer welcome.

Trumps decision is, unfortunately, a humiliating insult not only for us as academics, but for all Iraqis, she told Reuters.

Iran also slammed the insulting measure and said it would stop US citizens entering the country in retaliation to Washingtons visa ban, calling it an open affront against the Muslim world and the Iranian nation.
New president says he will require complete financial transparency from the ministers he chooses for his government.

Adama Barrow, The Gambias new president, has vowed to reform the countrys notorious intelligence agency and promised to ensure media freedom in the country.

Speaking at his first news conference since returning to take office on Thursday, Barrow announced plans to rename the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), a dreaded secret police accused by rights groups of forced disappearances and torture under the control of former leader Yahya Jammeh.

READ MORE: Gambians ready to rebuild their country from scratch

Barrow told reporters on Saturday the NIA was an institution that has to continue, but with a different name.





The rule of the law, that will be the order of the day, he said, adding that training would be given to NIAs operatives.

Name change

Barrow also said the countrys official name will no longer contain the word Islamic, which had been added by Jammeh in 2015.

The new president said The Gambia, whose population is 90 percent Muslim, with the rest Christian and animist, was a republic, not the Islamic republic.

Jammeh, who ruled the small West African nation for 22 years caused a major political impasse by refusing to give up power after losing the December 1 presidential election to Barrow.

OPINION: Gambia  A lesson for African dictators

After weeks of pressure from regional players and the threat of arrest by West African troops, Jammeh eventually conceded defeat.

In his news conference, Barrow also said he would ensure press freedom in the country and said that his cabinet picks would have to declare their assets before assuming office.

He promised his cabinet would be named early next week so that he could get the ball rolling, adding he would receive the first comprehensive information about the state of the nations finances also on Monday or Tuesday.





Foreign help

Jammeh has been accused by a Barrow aide of taking $11m from the state coffers before leaving for exile in Equatorial Guinea, and diplomats have said the country was already in a precarious financial state.

Barrows first cabinet pick, Vice President Fatoumata Jallow-Tambajang, has caused controversy as she is allegedly too old to serve, according to current constitutional rules.

Asked about reform of The Gambias army, whose poor reputation is partly responsible for the presence of 4,000 West African troops to guarantee Barrow and the populations safety, the president said he expected foreign nations to provide help.

In the army, if we need technical aid, we will contact countries that are willing to help us, he said.

There was no time set for the West African force to leave, Barrow added.
Rouhanis warning follows order by US President Trump banning visas for Iranians and six other Muslim-majority nations.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday it was no time to build walls between nations and criticised steps towards cancelling world trade agreements, without naming new US President Donald Trump.

His remarks on Saturday came after Trump ordered the construction of a wall along the US-Mexico border and imposed tough new controls on travellers from seven Muslim countries, among them Iran.





They have forgotten that the Berlin Wall collapsed many years ago. Even if there are walls between nations, they must be removed, Rouhani said at a tourism convention in Tehran.

Rouhani did not comment directly on the visa ban, but said Iran had opened its doors to foreign tourists since the signing of a nuclear agreement with world powers in 2015.

With more than a million Iranians living in the US, many families are deeply concerned about the implications of Trumps visa ban, which also affects citizens from Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

To annul world trade accords does not help their economy and does not serve the development and blooming of the world economy, Rouhani said at the Tehran conference. This is the day for the world to get closer through trade.

The protectionist-minded Trump formally withdrew the United States from the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal on Monday, fulfilling a campaign pledge to end American involvement in the 2015 pact.

Not logical

On Thursday, one of Irans most popular actresses said she would boycott next months Academy Awards in protest at the ban.

READ MORE: Taraneh Alidoosti boycotting Oscars over Trump visa ban

Trumps visa ban for Iranians is racist. Whether this will include a cultural event or not, I wont attend the #AcademyAwards 2017, tweeted Taraneh Alidoosti, who stars in the Oscar-nominated The Salesman.

No visas will be issued for migrants, refugees or visitors from the seven countries for at least 90 days, a restriction which can be extended if the countries in question do not provide extensive information on individuals seeking to enter the United States.

Quizzed on the street, many Iranians said they were baffled by the move.

Americans themselves are mostly immigrants. To pick out a few countries and call them terrorist is not logical, Mohsen Najari, a 33-year-old resident of the Iranian capital, told the AFP news agency.

READ MORE: Donald Trumps #MuslimBan sparks outrage and fear

Tehran and Washington have not had diplomatic ties since students stormed the US embassy in 1980 following an Islamic revolution that toppled the US-backed shah.

Its got nothing to do with terrorism. Iran and the US just dont have good ties. The US has good relations with Saudi Arabia so it doesnt matter how many terrorists come from Saudi Arabia, said Sima, a 27-year-old.

Trump also suspended the US refugee programme for 120 days, and specifically barred Syrian refugees until further notice.
Salman Haider and Ahmed Raza Naseer say they are safe, as fate of three others  missing for weeks  remains unclear.

Islamabad, Pakistan  One out of five disappeared Pakistani activists has been released and is back with his family, and another one has made contact with his relatives, Al Jazeera has learned, three weeks after the men first went missing.

Salman Haider and Ahmed Raza Naseer made contact via a telephone call earlier on Saturday, family members told Al Jazeera, without offering comment on their relatives current whereabouts.

Later on Saturday, Zeeshan Haider, Salmans brother, confirmed his release.

Hes with the family, and were happy that hes back, Zeeshan Haider told Al Jazeera. Hes in good condition [in terms of his health].

The disappearances prompted a series of protests by rights groups across the country, calling for the government to locate the men, or for them to be produced in a court to face formal charges if they had been detained by the states intelligence agencies.

Haider  a noted progressive activist, poet and university lecturer  was abducted while on his way home on the outskirts of the Pakistani capital Islamabad on January 6, family members told Al Jazeera earlier.

Naseer was abducted from his electronics shop in his native village just outside the town of Nankana Sahib in Punjab province on January 7, his family said.

READ MORE: Silencing Pakistans activists

The two men were among five activists who disappeared over the course of four days across Punjab province and from Islamabad.

There was no immediate word on the whereabouts of the other three men, Waqas Goraya, Asim Saeed and Samar Abbas, on Saturday.

He is safe and has made contact with us on the telephone, said Tahir Raza Naseer, Ahmeds brother. He did not say who had taken him.

Haiders family had also made a similar statement.

He has been in contact with the family, and the police should be consulted for further details, said a close family member, on condition of anonymity given the sensitivity of the subject.

We are still looking into these reports and will make a statement later, said Naeem Iqbal, a spokesperson for the Islamabad Police.

READ MORE: TV host Aamir Liaquat banned over hate speech

The Civil Progressive Alliance of Pakistan, a progressive human rights groups based in the southern city of Karachi, issued a statement saying the whereabouts of its president, Samar Abbas, were still unknown.

Samar Abbas, president of Civil Progressive Alliance Pakistan is still missing and family have not been contacted by any official yet, said a statement posted on their official Facebook page on Saturday.

It remains unclear who abducted the men.

The issue of enforced disappearances is not new for Pakistan. Rights activists allege that there are thousands of people who have been disappeared by the state, with some allegedly killed while in custody.

In December, the governments Commission on Enforced Disappearances reported that the bodies of 936 missing persons had been found in Balochistan province alone since 2011.

The Pakistani government denies any wrongdoing, and, in the case of the five activists, the interior ministry said it was making every possible effort for [their] safe recovery, according to a statement released last week.

OPINION: Pakistans violent cyberspace  No place for dissent

Zohra Yusuf, chairperson of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP), urged the ministry to make information about the case public.

It is incumbent upon the interior minister to bring the facts before the people, because he said he was personally pursuing the case, she told Al Jazeera. I think its his responsibility to come up with the reasons that they were taken, otherwise no one knows who is going to be next, and this practice will continue.

Since their abduction, the five men have been repeatedly accused on social media, and in some mainstream outlets, of committing blasphemy, a crime that carries a judicial death sentence and, increasingly commonly, the threat of extrajudicial murder by right-wing vigilantes.

The families of all five activists deny the blasphemy allegations.

Some of the rights activists calling for the release of the disappeared men were also later accused of blasphemy.

At least one protest calling for the mens release was attacked by stone-throwing right-wing counter-protesters on January 19.

Asim Saeeds family were forced to relocate from their home on Thursday, after receiving death threats via telephone based on the blasphemy allegations.

[The caller] said that he would kill me and also kill [Asims] children, and then burn our house down, said a family member, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Saeed is one of the three activists whose whereabouts remain unknown.

At least 68 people have been murdered in relation to blasphemy allegations in Pakistan since 1990, according to an Al Jazeera tally.
Protests planned at several more US airports as authorities block entry of migrants, including green card holders.

Protests have broken out at the John F Kennedy (JFK) International Airport in New York City as immigrants, including US green card holders, have been detained following right-wing President Donald Trumps executive order placing harsh restrictions on travellers from several Muslim-majority countries.

Hundreds of demonstrators chanted No ban, no wall, sanctuary for all! and No hate, no fear, immigrants are welcome here! while gathering outside the airports Terminal Four arrivals section.

Other protests were held at airports in Chicago, San Francisco, and Washington DC, among other US cities.

The protests came in response to passport holders from Arab countries being blocked on Saturday from passing through customs at US airports, while others were prevented from boarding US-bound planes.

On Friday, Trump signed an executive order to curb immigration and the entry of people from some Muslim-majority countries. He separately said he wanted the US to give priority to Syrian Christians fleeing the civil war there.

Trump placed a four-month hold on allowing refugees into the country and temporarily barred travellers from Syria and six other Muslim-majority countries.

The protest was attended by several New York-based organisations, including Make the Road New York, Jews for Racial and Economic Justice (JFREJ), Black Latino Asian Caucus members and The New York Immigration Coalition, among others.

Speaking to Al Jazeera, Julia Carmel, an organiser with JFREJ, decried Trumps executive order.

READ MORE: Fury as airlines bar passengers from flying to US

The purpose of our protest at JFK airport is twofold. First, we are demanding the safe release of refugees and other visa-holders, all of whom cooperated with a long and gruelling vetting process in order to get here, she said.

Additionally, the central message of our protest is that we are all immigrants or children of immigrants and refugees. The executive order is not only inhumane; it is absurd and hypocritical, she added, pointing out that the ban came into effect on Holocaust Remembrance Day (Friday).

Protests erupt at JFK Airport in New York as authorities block entry of migrants, including green card holders, following Trump's #MuslimBan pic.twitter.com/ZvVojmdHz4  Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) January 28, 2017

Tara Raghuveer, a 24-year-old national immigrant rights organiser with Make the Road New York, described the executive orders as deeply un-American.

They go against everything our country aspires to stand for, she told Al Jazeera at the protest.

Kazi Fouzia, a 48-year-old Bangladeshi immigrant and activist with Desis Rising Up and Moving, said she came to the protest to say: Banning one of us is banning all of us. Terrorising one of us is terrorising all of us.

Fouzia, who has lived in New York City for ten years, added: We are here to make sure every single person held in JFK will be released  we have to take down the policy.

Lawsuits

Trump administration officials have defended the executive order. Speaking to reporters on Saturday, a senior US administration official confirmed that the restrictions will affect legal permanent residents, known as green card holders, on a case-by-base basis.

For at least 90 days, citizens of Iraq, Iran, Somalia, Yemen, Sudan and Libya are barred from entering the country. Syrians have been banned from entering the US indefinitely.

READ MORE: World leaders condemn Donald Trumps Muslim ban

Immigrants from the seven countries have been blocked from boarding US-bound planes in Lebanon, Egypt, United Arab Emirates and elsewhere.

Legal representatives for two Iraqi men filed lawsuits against Trump and the US government on Saturday, according to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), a rights group.

Both men had ties to the US military and had visas. They were detained on Friday night in JFK Airport.

President Trumps war on equality is already taking a terrible human toll. This ban cannot be allowed to continue, said Omar Jadwat, director of the ACLUs Immigrants Rights Project, in a statement.

Additional reporting from New York City by Kelly Lunde: @Kllunde
Executive order that bars Syrian refugees from entering the US will shatter families, a family tells Al Jazeera.

An executive order that bans Syrian refugees from entering the US will shatter and divide families, a Syrian family has told Al Jazeera.

US President Donald Trump says the order, which will suspend the US refugee programme for 120 days and ban Syrians until further notice, will help protect Americans from terrorist attacks.

My brothers-in-law and cousins are still there. They're dying and no one is taking them in. No food, no medicine, their homes have been bombed, their shelters have been bombed and they have nowhere to go. Where can they go? by Bill Dalati, Syrian refugee

One Syrian family that has found refuge in the US state of California urged Trump to reconsider the ban and said it was an insurmountable obstacle for many Syrians seeking safety.

Bill Dalati told Al Jazeera: My brothers-in-law and cousins are still there. Theyre dying and no one is taking them in.

No food, no medicine, their homes have been bombed, their shelters have been bombed and they have nowhere to go. Where can they go?

His wife, Dalal Alia, said Trumps comments had left her feeling more helpless than ever.

I need to save them but theyre not letting me.

Every day I wake up and Im afraid to pick up the phone and to hear Oh, you lost a brother, or Oh, you lost a sister, or You lost someone. I cant do it any more.

The order, which has drawn the ire of Democrats and civil rights groups, bans nationals of Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen from entering the US.

Despite none of the perpetrators of any major US attack coming from these majority-Muslim countries, the Trump administration insists that the order is not targeting Muslims.

READ MORE: Dear Donald Trump  A letter from a Syrian refugee

On Friday, during an interview with the Christian Broadcasting Network, Trump said his administration would make helping persecuted Christians in the Middle East and North Africa a priority.

Theyve been horribly treated, Trump said, referring to Christians.

Everybody was persecuted in all fairness, but they were chopping off the heads of everybody, but more so the Christians, and I thought it was very, very unfair.

The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, or ISIS) group overran large swathes of Iraq and Syria in 2014, before attacking religious minorities including Christians and Yazidis.

However, the vast majority of the armed groups victims have been Muslim, particularly Shia Muslims, whom ISIL consider deviant.
US refugee programme suspended for 120 days and Syrian refugees barred until further notice.

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order suspending the US refugee programme for 120 days, specifically barring Syrian refugees until further notice.

Trump signed the order at the Pentagon, saying the moves would help protect Americans from terrorist attacks.

Im establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America. Dont want them here, Trump said earlier on Friday.

READ MORE: Anger, outrage and fear as Trump orders #MuslimBan

We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people, he said.

France and Germany are concerned over Trumps move to restrict refugee arrivals, French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault said.

This decision can only cause us concern, he said following a meeting with his German counterpart Sigmar Gabriel. Welcoming refugees who are fleeing war is part of our duty.

Meanwhile, a spokesman for Czech President Milos Zeman praised Trumps steps.

Trump protects his country, hes concerned with the safety of his citizens. Exactly what EU elites do not do, Zemans spokesman Jiri Ovcacek said in a tweet.

Civil rights groups condemned the measures as discriminatory.





Trumps latest executive order is likely to hurt the people most in need: those fleeing violence and terrorism  and on Holocaust Remembrance Day, no less, said Grace Meng, senior US researcher at Human Rights Watch.

The decision to drastically curtail the refugee programme will abandon tens of thousands to the risk of persecution or worse and cede American leadership on a vitally important issue, Meng added.

The order suspends the Syrian refugee programme until further notice, and will eventually give priority to minority religious groups fleeing persecution. Trump said in an interview with a Christian news outlet the exception would help Syrian Christians fleeing the civil war.

His order had been expected to include a directive about setting up safe zones for Syrian refugees inside the country, but no such language was included.

READ MORE: Trumps first week  Executive overdrive

The measure limits entry for at least 90 days from Syria and other Muslim-majority countries, but did not list the countries by name.

The state department said the three-month ban in the directive applied to Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen  all Muslim-majority nations.

Al Jazeeras Dorsa Jabbari, reporting from Tehran, said: [Iranians] are shocked and astonished that this has taken place. Theres more than one million Iranians living in the US. A lot of them have extended family, or their children, or their parents still in Iran.

Ardeshir Namavar, a US green card holder currently in Tehran, told Al Jazeera: We feel really terrible about the news. I bought my ticket [to the US] and have a flight in 10 days; now we dont know what we are going to do. All of my family are in the US including my mother and father. They are American citizens. I had planned to study there, now everything has changed.

The order said all immigration programmes should include questions to evaluate the applicants likelihood of becoming a positively contributing member of society.

Extreme vetting

Jennifer Sime, the senior vice president of US programmes at the International Rescue Committee, an NGO that works with refugees, told Al Jazeera: I think its important to understand that there is already a robust vetting process in place. It was reviewed a few days ago and new things were added to enhance the vetting process.

She added that refugees were already the single most vetted population coming into the US.

On the exception in the order that favours Syrian Christian refugees, Sime said: The first thing to remember is that this programme [was] based on the principle of non-discrimination, so its not about choosing Muslims or Christians. Refugees are selected based on need, urgency and basically their cases, not based on political affiliation and religion.

"Extreme vetting" is a euphemism for discrimination against Muslims. Period.  ACLU (@ACLU) January 27, 2017

Trumps order cuts the number of refugees the US plans to accept this budget year by more than half, to 50,000 people from around the world.

During the last budget year, the US accepted 84,995 refugees, including 12,587 people from Syria. President Barack Obama had set the current refugee limit at 110,000.

READ MORE: Iranian president says now is not the time to build walls

During the Obama administration, vetting for refugees included in-person interviews overseas, where they provided biographical details about themselves, including their families, friendships, social or political activities, employment, phone numbers, email accounts and more.

They also provided biometric information, including fingerprints. Syrians were subject to additional, classified controls that administration officials at the time declined to describe, and processing for that group could routinely take years to complete.

Following Trumps signing of the order, the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), a US Muslim advocacy and civil rights group, said it would file a federal lawsuit on behalf of more than 20 individuals challenging the Muslim ban'.
In her first official visit to Ankara, the UK leader meets Turkish president to discuss trade, defence and Brexit.

British Prime Minister Theresa May has signed a $125m defence equipment deal with Turkey as the two countries promised to ramp up trade partnerships.

May, who arrived in Turkey on Saturday after a trip to the US, visited both countries for the first time as prime minister, promoting trade agreements to strengthen her hand in the UKs negotiations to leave the European Union, or Brexit.

After three hours of talks, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said the two leaders had discussed steps towards defence industry cooperation.

He also told reporters he hoped to increase annual trade with Britain to $20bn  up from $15.6bn now.

Trade, defence

May said the two countries had agreed to form a joint working group for post-Brexit trade.

They would step up an aviation security programme, signing a defence deal worth more than $125m to develop Turkish fighter jets.

May hailed the deal, which involves BAE Systems and TAI (Turkish Aerospace Industries) working together to develop the TF-X Turkish fighter programme, saying it showed that Britain is a great, global, trading nation and that we are open for business.

OPINION: Why a hard Brexit will cost the UK more than Europe

Al Jazeeras Sonia Gallego, reporting from London, said there are already in place robust trade and arms deals between the two countries.

Since 2015, theres has been $400m worth of arms traded to Turkey, and  following the coup [another] $60m.

Trade partners

May said she was proud Britain had stood with Turkeys democratically elected government when a failed coup attempt happened last year.

Im proud that the UK stood with you on 15 July last year in defence of democracy and now it is important that Turkey sustains that democracy by maintaining the rule of law and upholding its international human rights obligations as the government has undertaken to do, she told reporters.

Mays government is keen to start laying the groundwork for bilateral trade agreements for when Britain leaves the EU

The UK was the second-largest destination for Turkish exports in 2015, buying $10.6bn in goods, according to IMF trade data. Only Germany imports more from Turkey.
European leaders, the United Nations and international groups have condemned US President Donald Trumps measures against refugees and travellers from several Muslim-majority countries.

The chorus of criticism came as passport holders from Arab countries were blocked on Saturday from passing through customs at US airports and others were prevented from boarding US-bound planes.





Trump on Friday signed an executive order that will curb immigration and the entry of refugees from some Muslim-majority countries. He separately said he wanted the US to give priority to Syrian Christians fleeing the civil war there.

The bans, though temporary, took effect immediately, causing havoc and confusion for would-be travellers with passports from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

The United Nations refugee agency and the International Organization for Migration called on the Trump administration to continue offering asylum to people fleeing war and persecution, saying its resettlement programme was vital.

The needs of refugees and migrants worldwide have never been greater and the US resettlement programme is one of the most important in the world, the two Geneva-based agencies said in a joint statement on Saturday.

Part of our duties

Germany and France also expressed discontent with Trumps measures.

The reception of refugees fleeing the war, fleeing oppression, is part of our duties, Jean-Marc Ayrault, Frances foreign minister, said during a joint news conference with his German counterpart, Sigmar Gabriel.

Germany has taken in more than one million refugees and migrants, mainly from the Middle East, since 2015.

Although traditionally open to asylum seekers, France has taken in far fewer refugees than Germany since the migrant crisis erupted.

READ MORE: Donald Trumps #MuslimBan sparks outrage and fear

Some in the French government, particularly ex-premier Manuel Valls, have criticised Berlins open-door policy, as has Trump.

The United States is a country where Christian traditions have an important meaning. Loving your neighbour is a major Christian value, and that includes helping people, said Germanys Gabriel.

I think that is what unites us in the West, and I think that is what we want to make clear to the Americans.

Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim also said the Republicans sweeping ban on people seeking refuge in the US is no solution to problems.

Regional issues cannot be solved by closing the doors on people, Yildirim said during a joint news conference in Ankara with Britains Prime Minister Theresa May, adding that Western countries should do more to help ease Turkeys refugee burden.

May, however, refused to condemn Trumps refugee suspension.

The United States is responsible for the United States policy on refugees, she said when repeatedly pressed on the issue.

But other European leaders made their concerns clear, with Luxembourg Foreign Minister Jean Asselborn condemning the new measures.

The decision is  bad for Europe, because its going to strengthen even further the mistrust and hatred towards the West in the heart of the Muslim world, he told the Sunday edition of German daily Tagesspiegel, excerpts of which were released a day in advance.

Extreme xenophobia

Inside the US, Democrats were also quick to condemn Trumps order, saying it would tarnish the reputation of the country.

Todays executive order from President Trump is more about extreme xenophobia than extreme vetting, said Democratic Senator Edward Markey in a statement.

Chuck Schumer, the New York senator, also criticised Trumps move, saying in a tweet:

There are tears running down the cheeks of the Statue of Liberty tonight. pic.twitter.com/X6q40dMCsN  Chuck Schumer (@SenSchumer) January 27, 2017

Yet some Republicans praised Trumps move. Bob Goodlatte, chairman of the House of Representatives Judiciary Committee, said the US president is using the tools granted to him by Congress and the power granted by the Constitution to help keep America safe and ensure we know who is entering the United States.

What we have to remember in all of this is that there are millions of Americans who like what Trump is doing when hes revamping immigration and the visiting to the US, Al Jazeeras Kimberly Halkett, reporting from Washington DC, said.

Its what he promised to do during the campaign trail and in his inauguration speech.

Not time for walls

Trump on Wednesday also ordered the construction of a US-Mexican border wall, a major promise during his election campaign, as part of a package of measures to curb undocumented immigration.

Ostensibly referring to Trumps executive order, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said in a speech on Saturday: Today is not the time to erect walls between nations. They have forgotten that the Berlin wall fell years ago.

READ MORE: Trumps first week  Executive overdrive

He added: Today is the time for peaceful co-existence, not the time to create distance among nations.

But Milos Zeman, the president of the Czech Republic, praised the decision. Writing on Twitter, Zemans spokesperson said Trump protects his country and called for the European Union to take similar measures.

Dutch politician Geert Wilders, known for promoting Islamophobia, tweeted: Well done @POTUS its the only way to stay safe + free. I would do the same. Hope youll add more Islamic countries like Saudi Arabia soon, using an acronym for the President of the United States.
Russia has accused Senegal of engaging in piracy after armed naval officers from the west African nation seized 62 of its nationals on a trawler for alleged illegal fishing.

The Russian foreign ministry on Thursday called in the Senegalese charge daffaires for a 40-minute meeting during which it filed a formal protest aimed at signalling the seriousness with which Moscow treated the affair.

Russian diplomats made a firm demand to the Senegalese authorities to immediately release the Russian fishing trawler, the Oleg Naydenov, and its crew, foreign ministry spokesman Alexander Lukashevich said.

He said Senegals charge daffaires had assured him that Dakar would make every possible effort to resolve the situation.

Russias federal fisheries agency argued on Thursday that the ship was actually in the waters of Senegals southern neighbour Guinea Bissau when it was seized.

You can say we are talking about piracy on a state level, Alexander Savelyev, a spokesman of Russian fisheries agency, told Rossiya 24 state television.

He said the ship was now suffering daily losses of more than $30,000 and promised to raise the matter with the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea.

We have been preparing the required documents for the past two days, Savelyev was quoted as saying by Russias Prime business news agency.

The same Hamburg-based UN tribunal had earlier ordered Moscow to release the Greenpeace crew Russian authorities had detained in November  a hearing boycotted by the Kremlin.

Savelyev further accused Senegalese authorities of acting under the pressure of Greenpeace activists who  angered at their earlier arrest  were urging Dakar to take a tough stance with the Russian crew.

It turn out that the army of the sovereign Republic of Senegal is acting under Greenpeace orders, Russian media quoted the fisheries spokesman as saying.

Repeat offenders

Senegal said on Sunday that it planned to fine Russia about $800,000. The ship and its crew  which also includes 23 citizens of Guinea Bissau  are being held under armed guard in Dakar.

The nation of 14 million has for years been battling to contain unauthorised fishing in its waters by foreign trawlers.

It blames this activity for depleting its stocks of sea life and endangering the livelihoods of local small-scale fishermen.

Senegalese Fisheries Minister Haidar El Ali said on Thursday that at least three illegal Russian trawlers had been caught off its waters in the past few days.

The spokesman for a union of Senegalese fishing industry workers added that Senegal suffered from aggressive interventions by ships from Russia, Ukraine and Belize.

These boats are repeat offenders, Senegalese fishing union spokesman Adama Lam told reporters in Dakar.

Senegal detained the Oleg Naydenov vessel in the Atlantic on January 4 after accusing it of repeatedly fishing in its waters without a proper permit.

The incident has created a furore in Russias state media amid anger at what Moscow views as discrimination against its nationals by a small African state.

The trawlers captain has complained of being refused the right to see a doctor and a Moscow delegation in Dakar has accused Senegalese officials of denying them meetings or explanations about the case.

Fishing authorities in Moscow have also linked the ships arrest to a clandestine campaign by Greenpeace  an environmental protection group whose activists were detained for two months last year after staging a protest against oil drilling off Russias Arctic coast.
In his first week in office, US President Donald Trump has been signing presidential orders and directives. In a matter of days, he has already managed some big changes in US trade policy without the approval of Congress.

International trade policy is one area where Trump is eager to flex his presidential muscle. Since 1934, US policy has been geared towards accommodation and internationalism.

But Trump believes too many imports from foreign countries are bad for US jobs and that has implications for the rest of the world. As such, all it took for Trump to exit the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade deal was to pick up a pen.

The impetus for TPP was about the pivot towards Asia  linking economies, from Japan to Vietnam, more closely to the US. However, Trump has no interest in giving countries more access to US markets.

Closer to home, The USs neighbours will also grapple with changes that will affect their economies and relations with the United States.

Trump wants to renegotiate the North American Free Trade Agreement between Canada, US and Mexico.

The physical barrier Trump wants to construct along the US-Mexico border is symbolic of an inward-looking US.

James Bays reports from Washington, DC.

Also on this episode of Counting the Cost:

US-UKs special relationship: Can UK Prime Minister Theresa May find an ally in Trump as her deadline to trigger an EU exit is only two months away? Russell Jones, a partner at Llewellyn consulting, discusses Trump and Brexit. Were going to see a more stimulative policy response out of the United States over the course of the next couple of years. Fiscal expansion coupled with deregulation and, of course, theres also the issue of greater protectionism of the US home market and that is something in the short-term help to hot-house the economy, if you like  keep demand within the borders of the United States.

While May and Trump were brought to power by the rise of populism, there are some areas of significant differences between them. On Mays visit to the US this week, Jones says, Theres a certain amount of desperation on the part of the British government. In the context of Brexit, the UK is very keen to reanimate its relationship with the United States, notwithstanding all the elements of Mr Trumps policies, which frankly, the British government find rather distasteful.

The US-UK relationship has always been an asymmetrical relationship  the United States seems to get rather more out of it than the United Kingdom does  trying to reanimate that relationship when youre a little bit desperate, perhaps, is not the best way to achieve a good outcome. I am not sure this really is going to do the UK a great deal of good in the great scheme of things, but in the context of Brexit, the UK is looking around for other friends, says Jones.

Making China Great again: Among Asian leaders, there was no surprise about Trump making good on his election promise to withdraw the US from the Trans-Pacific Partnership. But it has left some wondering if the TPP can now be salvaged. Like Australia, Japan is also a security partner of the US. Both governments worry about the consequences of a US retreat from Asia. But as Trump pivots away from Asia, will he actually be making China great again? Andrew Leung, CEO of the Hong Kong-based Andrew Leung International Consultants, thinks the worlds next biggest economy will take on an even bigger role in the region.

Chinese New Year: According to the Chinese lunar calendar, New Year falls on January 28 in 2017, and is marked by around one-sixth of the worlds population. Adrian Brown reports from Beijing on how people in China feel about the economy as the year of the Rooster dawns.
Jakartas outgoing governor, Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, also known as Ahok, was sentenced to two years in prison on May 9 in a south Jakarta courtroom over comments he made regarding what he believed to be the misinterpretation of certain verses of the Quran.

As hundreds of protesters gathered outside calling for the maximum penalty to be given, Dwiarso Budi Santiarto, the presiding judge, told the court that Purnama was convincingly guilty of committing blasphemy.

The court case against the Indonesian capitals first Christian and ethnic Chinese governor since the 1960s was filed by several conservative Islamic groups after a statement he made on his re-election campaign trail went viral on YouTube.

Ahok quoted the Quranic verse Al Maidah 51 while introducing an economic programme in a village  his concern lay in his political opponents using this very verse to discourage people to accept his leadership as a non-Muslim. The message was seen as Ahok criticising the verse itself, as opposed to those who may misuse it to undermine his political aspirations.



In spite of some major achievements, including cleaning up the river system, providing low-cost housing to the poor and improving infrastructure, Ahoks words brought hundreds of thousands to the street, and divided the country in opinion.

Indonesia has the largest Sunni Muslim population in the world and recognises six religions based on the countries ideology named Pancasila  a set of interrelated principles. According to the constitution, these six religions are all equal.

However, in the past two decades, the blasphemy law has been increasingly used against religious minorities.

In 2012, a public servant in Sumatra was jailed for 2.5 years after declaring himself an atheist on Facebook. A Muslim scholar received a two-year prison sentence for preaching Shia teachings.

Ahok was running for re-election against two Muslim candidates  and his supporters claim the blasphemy accusations are politically motivated.

Purnama lost his bid for re-election in an April runoff  after the most divisive and religiously charged election in recent years  to a Muslim rival, Anies Baswedan.

Governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama talks to Al Jazeera about the legal and political battle facing the governor, whether Indonesias religious tolerance is at a crossroads and if he wants to become Indonesias first ethnic Chinese president.

Indonesia saw some of the largest protests in its history as a result of the allegations against Ahok. Hundreds of thousands marched in the streets of the capital, demanding his arrest. Asked to deliver a message to those he has angered, Ahok says the issue isnt what it seems and explains the use of the Quranic verse in that chosen context.

I think the situation has changed since then [the protests]. Most of the people then had only seen an edited version of what I said, he says. They [people on the islands] had apologised in the past to me that they did not vote for me because according to their teachings about the verse of Al Maidah, a Christian is not allowed to be a leader and I am a Christian.

A combination of an edited snippet from the governors speech and virality via Youtube may have seen protesters line the streets of Jakarta, but Ahok believes that this is all part of the challenge of the elections. What would have happened if I were not running for re-election? There would not be this problem, he says.

Ahok continues: I see this as a historic opportunity for our nation, if we can continue to build our nation according to our constitution, which says we are a united country based on unity in diversity. I am grateful that history has chosen me to be in this position today.

Asked about the direction he feels Indonesia is going in, especially in considering its official status as secular and recognising multiple religions, Ahok is optimistic about the future.

Islam in Indonesia wants to bring prosperity and grace to all creatures, he says. If you are Muslim, Christian or Hindu, you will still be an Indonesian. I am convinced that the majority in this country are still on track with our ideology. After this case happened, it is actually getting stronger. We are more aware that we cant stay quiet. We are a country based on Pancasila. A tolerant nation.

Editors note: This interview was conducted in January 2017.

You can talk to Al Jazeera, too. Join our Twitter conversation as we talk to world leaders and alternative voices shaping our times. You can also share your views and keep up to date with our latest interviews on Facebook.
Dr Marc Lamont Hill is an award-winning journalist and author and is the Steve Charles Professor of Media, Cities, and Solutions at Temple University. Hill is known for his work addressing the intersections of race, justice, politics and culture. His latest best-selling book is We Still Here: Pandemics, Policing, Protest and Possibility which follows on the success of Nobody: Casualties of Americas War on the Vulnerable from Flint to Ferguson. Hill has received numerous prestigious awards from the US National Association of Black Journalists, GLAAD, and the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences.
UF is the latest of 225 colleges and universities under federal investigation for possibly mishandling a sexual violence complaint.

The Office of Civil Rights in the U.S. Education Department announced Thursday that a January report from UF is one of 306 sexual violence complaints being investigated, The Washington Post reported.

On Jan. 20, the office began its investigation into UF  making it one of six cases to open in 2017.

Inclusion on the list doesnt indicate that federal law has been violated, according to The Washington Post. The list, started under President Barack Obamas administration in 2014, first listed 55 universities. It has since quadrupled.

UF spokesperson Janine Sikes confirmed Friday that the UF investigation is ongoing. She said while the investigation is open, the complaint and any other relevant documents arent public.

The University of Florida is committed to Title IX compliance, including clear standards of student conduct and a fair student conduct process for all students involved, Sikes wrote in an email. We are fully cooperating with OCR in its investigation.

The other Florida universities under investigation include Florida State University, Full Sail University, Stetson University, the University of Miami and the University of South Florida, according to The Washington Post.

@paigexfry

pfry@alligator.org

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Once the thick crowds of college students exhaust last calls for alcohol and slowly scatter from Midtowns bar scene early Saturday morning, 101 Cantina will close its doors for good.

After eight years spent across the street from UFs campus, where it served for many as a welcome escape from the stressors of academia, the bar and restaurant announced Friday its run was over.

Since August, Cantina faced the threat of foreclosure after its owners could not pay back $68,322 in debts owed to investors, Alachua County court records show.

Then, in September, the bars landlord demanded owners pay back $21,181 in overdue rent, according to court records.

Erik Zika, Cantinas general manager, broke the news of the bars closing in a bleak, long-winded Facebook post.

With much heartache, the day that we never thought would happen is now upon us, the post read. This will be 101 Cantina's final night open in Gainesville.

Zikas post, which was shared more than 300 times, assured patrons that the bar's owners did what they could to stay open while dealing with its legal battles.

You put your heart, blood, soul, tears  and it ends, Zika, 34, said. Its not going to be a happy time.

But for the night  and into the morning  Cantina will host one final drunken celebration, a fitting send off for one of Midtowns most recognizable bars.

Zika said the usual Friday-night Happy Hour deals, which last from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., will be in full effect. Bargoers can buy discounted shots of liquor, pitchers of beer and Jagerbombs.

When Zach Feldman, 23, found out Friday would be his last time at the bar, he slipped on a pair of jeans and convened with friends for one final round of drinks.

Feldman forecasted Cantinas send off would be packed, a typical Friday night at a bar he won't soon forget.

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I have had too many great memories here  a lot of drunk memories, the UF real estate graduate student said.

mkornfield@alligator.org

@merylkornfield
Hundreds of thousands of people participated in this year's March for Life in Washington, D.C. Each year since 1974, pro-life advocates have protested the Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton decisions that invalidated fifty state laws and made abortion legal and available on demand throughout the country. Each year they mourn the loss of the nearly 60 million unborn children, since 1973, and to bring awareness to what pro-lifers consider the greatest human rights violation of our time.

This years gathering was a somewhat bittersweet for the pro-life movement. There is reason for hope based on President Trumps campaign promises and his executive order reinstating the Mexico City Policy, which bars foreign aid or federal funding for international NGOs that promote or provide abortions. Both houses of Congress are controlled by an ostensibly pro-life GOP, which adds to the movements optimism. However, their greatest cause for celebration is the end of the most radical pro-abortion presidency in our nations history. That is not just hyperbole, when you consider his voting record and deafening silence on Planned Parenthood executives being caught on tape trafficking baby parts while sipping Chardonnay.

The underlying gloom of this years march was the missed opportunity and betrayal by John Kasich, the Republican governor of Ohio. On December 13, 2016, Gov. Kasich received two bills from the Ohio legislature for signature. The first bill was SB 127, which classifies abortions performed after 20 weeks a fourth-degree felony for doctors. The second bill, HB 493, commonly referred to as the Heartbeat Bill, which would prohibit abortions in cases where a babys heartbeat can be detected along with any procedures performed after six weeks of pregnancy. The governor signed SB127 into law, but line item vetoed the Heartbeat Bill.

Dr. James Dobson categorized Gov. Kasichs veto as a cowardice and shameful action. I would add self-serving and foolhardy to Dr. Dobsons criticism. As we witnessed in his stubborn unwillingness to drop out of the 2016 GOP presidential primary, despite having no mathematical path to victory, Kasich is really best at serving his own interests. In an incredible display of arrogance, he described his veto as, what is best for the public interest, and justified it in his own mind because the potential litigation it would invite due to its clear contrast with U.S. Supreme Court abortion rulings. Did he not believe the sixty out of ninety-nine Republican House members considered this possibility when presenting the bill? Beyond such arrogance and defiance of Ohio voters, his veto makes no sense from a strategic standpoint, unless of course he was more concerned with being perceived as moderate on this issue.

Politicians left of center create issues for the sole purpose of getting SCOTUS rulings on laws or regulations that would never pass the legislative process. Indeed, that is exactly how the Griswold v. Connecticut paved the way to the Roe v. Wade decision, which nullified laws limiting and prohibiting abortion in all fifty states. If Gov. Kasich were correct in predicting this bill would wind up before the SCOTUS, wouldnt that be a desirable outcome? After all, we heard throughout the entire race for the presidency how essential it was for the GOP to win, because of the Supreme Court nominations hanging in the balance. That was the ultimate justification for people across all political, economic, and faith spectrums to vote for Donald Trump over Hillary Clinton or more conservative third-party candidates. Gov. Kasich squandered an opportunity to implement a law that was legitimately passed by a strong majority of legislators that would have raised far more awareness and potentially far greater consequence than an annual one-day protest, even one as large as the March for Life.

Is life in the womb any less alive at six weeks than twenty weeks? What does the governor of Ohio consider the growth of arms and legs, brain development, formation of eyes and ears, spine and bone tissue growth, regular rhythmic heartbeats that pump blood through main vessels, all of which take place by the sixth week? Must a baby actually hear itself being murdered, as it can by the nineteenth week, for the governor to feel it is worth protecting?

People in Ohio have been marching on campaign trails and to the polls for years, which resulted in a strong majority of pro-life representatives. The state legislatures finally reached a point to pass two solid bills that would save a considerable amount of lives and marched them before a self-proclaimed pro-life Republican governor to sign into law, only for him to split the proverbial baby in half. More specifically, according to Ohio Department of Healths Induced Abortions records as of 2015, split at least 10,066 babies in half. To put this in better perspective, out of the 20,976 induced abortions recorded in 2015, only 145 took place beyond twenty weeks of gestation. Every life saved is precious and worth fighting for under any circumstance. However, if you are given the opportunity to potentially save over 10,000 lives instead of 145 with the stroke of your pen, and you willingly opt to save only 145, you certainly can no longer call yourself pro-life. I sincerely hope this was only a cowardice and shameful act of one extremely flawed man and not a coordinated effort to keep campaign funds and charitable donations flowing to calculating politicians and activists.

The March for Life must continue every day in each state. Pro-life advocates must continue to pray for and elect true leaders that will pass and sign strong bills that protect the unborn. Politicians or advocacy groups that betray the unborn must be denied every form of support.

Ringo Lanzetti is a small business owner. As a strong believer in traditional American values, he focuses on defending economic and religious liberties to preserve the American Dream. He lives in Virginia with his wife and two children.
A warm, sunny Saturday a decade ago, there was a Hispanic festival in our small town, a bedroom community for illegal aliens seeking day labor jobs in the nearby wealthy suburbs. It was a sanctuary city at the time. No problem with the festival itself. The music was lively and the food tasty. And don't the Irish have St. Patrick's Day, and the Italians Columbus Day?

While wandering around the festivities, I noticed a table with three nice ladies in front of a "Register To Vote" sign. Curious about its presence at a festival where the bulk of the crowd was either illegal alien day laborers or legal non-citizens, I went over to inquire. Before I spoke, one of those nice ladies asked me if I was registered to vote. Wanting to see where this would go, I said no, and asked how to sign up. A voter registration form was thrust in my hands. The very first item on these forms, in Virginia and the rest of America, was "I am a citizen of the United States of America," with YES and NO blocks to check.

"Don't I need to show you some proof of citizenship?" I asked. She replied "no." I asked her how she could verify that I wasnt lying. Sensing she might be on a slippery slope, she called over a supervisor from the Registrar's Office and told the woman of my concern. The official told me they never checked citizenship status because I would be penalized if I lied. Really? So I asked her how she would verify my truthfulness, or those of the dozens of new voters being registered that day. Defensively, she replied that they checked all registrations for accuracy at the Registrar's Office when they were turned in.

I called the Registrar Monday, and asked if they do indeed verify citizenship status. I was told that they didn't unless someone made a specific complaint against an individual applicant.

Forward to our next local election, where the illegal alien presence and an unlawful day labor site were THE issues, I noticed that the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) in their purple tee shirts, and their local spinoffs were canvassing the town. I followed them for awhile as they went to homes and neighborhoods where the illegal aliens concentrated, and watched them exit each home or apartment with a new handful of voter registrations.

Ten years later, nobody at the Registrar's Office is checking citizenship.

The brutal truth is that illegal aliens vote, and in large numbers. Voter fraud is not exclusive to illegal aliens. There are also legal aliens (green card, H1B visas, tourist visa holders, etc.) who vote illegally. And it's not just Latin Americans. The non-citizen demographic includes South Asian tech workers, Irish overstays, West and Horn of Africa immigrants, and Asian students. Then there are dual-state voters (college kids, snowbirds, transients), reincarnated voters, and un-purged voters long moved from their precincts.

While few cases are prosecuted, its not because few crimes are committed. Political pressure from Democrats and the cowardly establishment, open-borders Republicans, precludes rigorous enforcement. The United States Attorney in Virginia refused to prosecute such cases in several Northern Virginia counties. The Democratic Party Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Elections refused to release any information on illegal alien registrations. Rep. Paul Ryan and Sen. Lindsey Graham deny the existence of voter fraud, but they offer no proof for their position. Then they ridicule President Trump when he asks to investigate the problem.

In fact, numerous studies document the fraud that these politicians and their media votaries consciously ignore or derisively rebut. A well researched report on illegal alien voting in my home state of Virginia revealed more than a thousand illegal alien registrants in just eight counties. It did not include the two most populous, of which one, Fairfax County, is a de facto sanctuary county, and the very county described in the opening paragraphs of this article. Extrapolate those eight Virginia county totals to the whole state, and then to the entire United States, including states like California where no illegal alien controls exist, and you can see that President Trump's claims are not so frivolous.

The effects of turning a blind eye to this felonious voter fraud? Virginia was once a solid red state. Once the illegal alien invasion hit the state in full flood after 2004, (thanks in part to Republican amnesty advocate George Bush's indifference to the tsunami) it became a blue state. The margin of Hillary Clinton's victory over Donald Trump in Virginia was almost entirely her margin in Fairfax County, where illegals have sanctuary and are protected by a solidly Democrat government. In five recent statewide elections, the Republican margin of defeat - Cuccinelli for Governor (vs. McAuliffe), Gillespie for Senate (vs. Warner), Allen for Senate (vs. Webb), and two Attorneys General - was almost certainly the result of illegal voting. Al Franken sits in the Senate almost certainly because of Minnesota vote fraud. Paul Ryan in his gerrymandered Wisconsin protectorate may not know that, but we citizens in Virginia and elsewhere do know it.

Virginia has recently implemented some controls on voter fraud, such as a photo ID requirement. But that law has been weakened by liberal court challenges and a Democrat governor. Whats more, the ID law controls fraud only on election day. The real fraud is in the registration process. Once on the voter rolls, illegals are essentially home free, because even a photo ID is easy to come by.

Analysts John Fund and Hans von Spakovsky, and TV reporter Eric Shawn, have done yeomans work in several published studies on voter fraud. A new study confirms similar voting fraud in Philadelphia, the electoral whale in Pennsylvanias elections. As far back as 2012, a CBS 4/Miami Herald study, not exactly a right wing bastion, revealed that Floridas voter rolls included as many as 180,000 non-citizen legal resident voters, while illegal alien voters werent even noted because they could not be explicitly identified. The left-leaning Pew Research Center in 2012 contended that state voter rolls contain millions of inaccuracies ripe for exploitation.

There are numerous surveys in other states with similar results, should Ryan, Graham, Fox News, CNN and those of their ilk bother to study them instead of rail against Trump.

Speaking of which, the Democratic (and Republican) politicians and pundits who now ridicule Trump as lacking evidence, are ignoring evidence which already exists. Trump has called their bluff, and there will now be the investigation they have sought. People in the real world already know the results. You can be sure that Democratic Secretaries of State and Democrat-controlled election boards are scurrying to seclude their files from prying eyes, and the federal and state bureaucracies who must supply the corroborating support data (jury duty exclusions, green card identities, tax records, visa overstays, border entry records, illegal alien arrests, drivers licenses, etc.) are finding ways to hide or retain the information.

For many inside the chattering class Beltway bubble, illegal alien vote fraud is a debating exercise with the endgame political advantage. But for each and every citizen, it is a theft of that person's sacred vote. As with illegal alien crime, the compassion always goes to the perpetrator, not the victim. But my vote and your vote was secured and defended by thousands of servicemen over the years, many of whom gave their lives. It is sad and disgraceful to know that the value of a hard-won vote is being destroyed by people who shouldn't even be in this country. Bring on that investigation!

William Campenni is a retired engineer, business owner, and Air Force fighter pilot.


Along with President Trump, I too would like to see waterboarding return as a tool for getting information from captured enemies. My support for this comes from my personal experience of being waterboarded while I was in the Marine Corps.

Im a former Marine Corps helo pilot and attended what was the last SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, Escape) training course located near Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point in North Carolina. During my training I was captured by the enemy and waterboarded.

My waterboarding did not occur in some medically safe, hermetically purified room, designed for that purpose with a few doctors and medics standing nearby to render immediate assistance. Thats what I saw a few times on TV way back when Senator McCain called it "torture". I was taken, blindfolded via my poncho that the instructors put on backwards with the hood tied tightly closed, to someplace in the training area (which at that time was located in a big square, framed by four small state highways and county roads and not on base). There, I was forced to the ground and, face up, tied spread eagle to stakes.

Now, let me back up for a second and explain to you naysayers and civilians that when the Marine Corps creates a training environment, it is intentionally designed in such a way that you are not predisposed to think, Hey, this is just training so anything that happens, I know is just fake.

While I was spread-eagled, able to see nothing, the instructor came over to ask me questions to test my resistance to answering. I refused to answer a question about my unit just as I was told to do earlier that week during the classroom phase of training. Suddenly, he loosened my poncho hood, pulled it down so I could see, then quickly put some kind of towel or cloth over my face and the towel or cloth was held tight to the ground on either side of my head making it impossible to move my head side to side. I was shocked about the towel and at that time had no idea what was about to happen next. He poured water on the towel where my nose and mouth were located and I literally could not breathe, as if I were drowning and could do absolutely nothing about it.

Now, I dont know much about how the human brain functions, but all thought left mine except abject, animal fear and knowing, absolutely knowing I was going to die right then, period. There was no, Okay, this will end in a few seconds and Ill be fine, or Come on Ken, youre a Marine, take this, or This is just a training exercise and its not real so calm down. None of that. And I would suspect that its the same for anyone else whos been waterboarded. Sorry Marine Corps, but I failed to resist, because when the instructor finally stopped after what seemed like years, and asked me the question again, I told him the answer, the right answer because I never wanted to experience again what had just happened.

Yes, I felt the shame and remorse later, feeling that I turned into a little two-year-old girl in a pink tutu after I was waterboarded. But there was a lot more training to go, and in order to pass the course (and never retake SERE school again), I had to start over from the beginning of the field course and go all that night and the next day to get to the checkpoint by 1500 (3 p.m.) or fail the course. Me and my SERE school partner, who I assumed was also spread-eagled nearby when we both were captured, made it by the skin of our teeth but we both passed.

Okay, so whats the bottom line? In my humble opinion, waterboarding is not torture. It is an effective technique, albeit an extremely terrifying and dehumanizing technique, that will make anyone sing the truth like a canary. Torture, to me is something permanent, like cutting off fingers or dislocating and relocating body joints over and over inducing extreme pain, giving one a disability for life. Torture is being forced to watch your son or daughter get beheaded or watch your daughter get beaten or stoned to death because she was raped by seven males; or watching your only son get burned alive on the nightly news after he was captured. That, to me, is torture and I am very against it, whether it works or not. Im sure President Trump is against that as well. Plus, I have serious doubt that any enemy can train themselves enough to take a session of waterboarding in order to keep mum.

And those who disagree and think waterboarding is torture because Doctor So-and-So, or Special Ops Colonel So-and-So, or Senator McCain says it is, fine. My opinion is based on my own experience. I believe waterboarding ought to be used to get real time information from an enemy in order to save the lives of those in harms way, period.

Not that its going to make a difference to policy, but based on my own experience, thats my two cents.
As both White house counselor to President Trump Kellyanne Conway and Vice-President Mike Pence noted at the 44th annual March for Life in Washington, D.C., it is an important historical fact that when the Declaration of Independence was written that it was no accident that life was first among the unalienable rights we were endowed with by our Creator, before even liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

Among the rights we enjoy and defend, some newly invented, is the right to an abortion found in the penumbras and emanations of the U.S. Constitution inventive Supreme Court justices. These days, liberty takes a back seat to the pursuit of happiness, or should we say self-indulgence, and the right to life the Founders exalted is denounced as the legacy of the allegedly anti-women old white men who wrote the Declaration and the Constitution. As Pence noted Friday, the first sitting vice-president to address a March for Life, the Trump administration is determined to restore life to its proper position of an unalienable right:

Vice President Mike Pence assured anti-abortion protestors Friday that their cause has friends in the new administration, vowing that it "will not rest" until the "pro-life" culture is restored in the U.S.

Speaking at the annual "March for Life" event in Washington DC, Pence proclaimed that "life is winning again in America" and outlined how the Trump administration would advance anti-abortion policies. "Be assured, along with you, we will not grow weary. We will not rest until we restore a culture of life in America, for ourselves and for our posterity," he said at the event. Pence, the first sitting vice president to attend the March for Life, vowed that the administration would work with Congress to defund Planned Parenthood and other abortion providers. While no federal government money goes towards abortions performed by Planned Parenthood, the organization can be reimbursed by the government for other health services performed for women who are on programs like Medicaid. Blocking that funding has long been a target for anti-abortion lawmakers. Pence also praised Trump's signing of an executive order than bands U.S. aid to international healthcare organizations that provide or promote abortions. "Life is winning again in America. Today is a celebration of that progress...That is evident in the presence of pro-life majorities in the Congress of the United States of America," Pence said.

And perhaps a pro-life majority on the Supreme Court as well? Roe V. Wade was decided in an age when you could argue that the fetus was a soulless clump of cells and get away with it. There was no ultrasound and no way to monitor the fetal heartbeat, or even to perform fetal surgery. We are now able to save premature babies at earlier and earlier dates. Should our right to life be determined by technology? What kind of right is that?

Viability was and still is a determining factor in limiting abortions. Many states have added restrictions on when abortions can be performed based on the ability of the unborn to save birth. But heres a test for you. Take a full-term newborn and leave it alone. See if it feeds and changes itself. As Investors Business Daily editorialized when Texas passed a late-term abortion ban, the humanity of the unborn was even grudgingly acknowledged by one of the majority in Roe V. Wade:

The 20-week benchmark wasn't pulled out of a hat. The respected University of Utah expert Maureen Condic recently testified before Congress that at 20 weeks a fetus can feel pain and has "an increase in stress hormones in response to painful experiences" along with other reactions that "reflect a mature, bodywide response to pain." It is her view that fetuses "deserve the benefit of the doubt regarding their experience of pain and protection from cruelty under the law." The public would seem to agree, as the advent and advances of ultrasound have largely shredded the "clump of cells" argument of abortion proponents. A University of Texas/Texas Tribune poll found 62% of people support the ban. Nationwide, even a recent Huffington Post/YouGov poll found that 59% support an abortion ban after 20 weeks. A Gallup poll late last year found that 64% think abortion should be illegal after 12 weeks.... Thanks to medical science, the time it takes for a baby in the womb to become viable is shrinking. It's been said that if the Supreme Court in 1973 had seen ultrasound pictures of the unborn, as is routinely done today, Roe v. Wade would have been decided quite differently. Indeed, writing the majority opinion back then, Justice Harry Blackmun said: "We need not resolve the difficult question of when life begins." He also wrote that if the unborn life was proved to be a person, "the appellant's case, of course, collapses, for the fetus' right to life is then guaranteed."

We may be only one or two more Supreme Court justices away, the fetus right to life being guaranteed in law. When President Trump issued an executive order restoring the Mexico City policy on funding of organizations that provide abortions, we got a clear message on his view of the humanity of the unborn. As The Hill reported:

President Trump on Monday reignited the war over abortion by signing an executive order blocking foreign aid or federal funding for international nongovernmental organizations that provide or "promote" abortions. The so-called Mexico City policy, established by Republican President Ronald Reagan in 1984, blocks federal funding for international family planning charities that provide abortions or actively promote the procedure. I think the president, its no secret, has made it very clear that hes a pro-life president, White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer told reporters at his first briefing Monday afternoon. And I think the reinstatement of this policy is not just something that echoes that value, but respects tax payer funding as well, and ensures that were standing up not just for life of the unborn, but for also taxpayer funds that are being spent overseas to perform an action that is contrary to the values of this president.

On the wall of the Jefferson Memorial are the words: God who gave us life gave us liberty. The two are inseparable. Slaves were once considered something less than human, as the unborn currently are. The Supreme Court, which gave us Roe V. Wade, once gave us the Dred Scott decision. A new decision may soon correct another gross injustice.

Daniel John Sobieski is a free lance writer whose pieces have appeared in Investors Business Daily, Human Events, Reason Magazine and the Chicago Sun-Times among other publications.
Former Soviet premier and Russian president Mikhail Gorbachev sees a worrying trend in world affairs and is warning that it appears to him that nations are preparing for war.

Gorbachev penned a self-serving op-ed in Time Magazine that appears to blame the U.S. and the West for the heightened tensions:

In November 1985, at the first summit in Geneva, the leaders of the Soviet Union and the U.S. declared: Nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought. Our two nations will not seek military superiority. This statement was met with a sigh of relief worldwide. I recall a Politburo meeting in 1986 at which the defense doctrine was discussed. The proposed draft contained the following language: "Respond to attack with all available means." Members of the politburo objected to this formula. All agreed that nuclear weapons must serve only one purpose: preventing war. And the ultimate goal should be a world without nuclear weapons.

It is important to recall the balance of forces at that time. Russian and Warsaw Pact tanks outnumbered NATO by 4 to 1, Russian planes by 3 to 1. The old Soviet Union had a massive material advantage in conventional weapons, forcing NATO to rely on nuclear weapons to deter a Soviet attack.

Today, the U.S. has a technogical lead on Russia, but President Putin is modernizing and building up his forces as fast as he can. Where is this headed?

Today, however, the nuclear threat once again seems real. Relations between the great powers have been going from bad to worse for several years now. The advocates for arms build-up and the military-industrial complex are rubbing their hands. We must break out of this situation. We need to resume political dialogue aiming at joint decisions and joint action. There is a view that the dialogue should focus on fighting terrorism. This is indeed an important, urgent task. But, as a core of a normal relationship and eventually partnership, it is not enough. The focus should once again be on preventing war, phasing out the arms race, and reducing weapons arsenals. The goal should be to agree, not just on nuclear weapons levels and ceilings, but also on missile defense and strategic stability. In modern world, wars must be outlawed, because none of the global problems we are facing can be resolved by war  not poverty, nor the environment, migration, population growth, or shortages of resources. I urge the members of the U.N. Security Council  the body that bears primary responsibility for international peace and security  to take the first step. Specifically, I propose that a Security Council meeting at the level of heads of state adopt a resolution stating that nuclear war is unacceptable and must never be fought. I think the initiative to adopt such a resolution should come from Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin  the Presidents of two nations that hold over 90% of the worlds nuclear arsenals and therefore bear a special responsibility.

What Gorbachev dismantled, Putin is actively working to restore. Any rapprochement with Moscow must take into account Putin's planned measures to reconstitute the old Soviet Union  perhaps not by directly controlling the nations of Eastern Europe and the Baltics, but rather, by intimidation and threats, moving those countries into Moscow's orbit.

In this, America stands athwart Russian designs. Putin will not stop until he hits a brick wall  and yes, that could lead to a serious confrontation. But confronted with superior NATO forces, Putin will have little choice except to back down.

At least, that's the rational outcome to any confronation.

Is Putin a rational actor? Is Trump? We are likely to find out the answer to these questions in the next few years.
Iran was shocked on Thursday, January 19 as a deadly fire raged in downtown Tehrans iconic 17-story Plasco tower. Firefighters battled the blaze for several hours, yet the high-rise collapsed, and at least thirty trapped firefighters died due to lack of facilities, the BBC Persian Service reported.

The next day, Tehran locals were extremely angry, saying millions have been spent for ballistic missiles to reach Western capitals, yet the regime couldnt provide adequate hoses for firefighters to reach Plascos 10th floor.

They said the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) has provided enormous resources available to the Iranian regime, especially Tehrans terrorist entities, such as the Revolutionary Guards (IRGC), which play an outsized role in Irans internal power structure and which definitely exploit economic dividends generated by the JCPOA. With a network of money-laundering systems, the IRGC finance terrorist groups across the world.

According to a Reuters review of business accords:

When world powers agreed in 2015 to lift sanctions on Iran in return for curbs on its nuclear program, the deal's supporters in the United States, Europe, and Tehran hoped renewed trade and investment could boost Iran's private sector and weaken the state's hold on the economy. But the Iranian benefactors so far are mostly companies owned or controlled by the state, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Of nearly 110 agreements worth at least $80 billion that have been struck since the deal was reached in July 2015, 90 have been with companies owned or controlled by Iranian state entities, the analysis shows.

The same concern has been raised by prominent U.S. congressmen,

Senator Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), a member of the Foreign Relations Committee and Select Intelligence Committee, wrote in a Sept. 2016 press release:

We now know the President authorized a $1.7 billion cash ransom payment to Iran, then his administration lied about it to Congress[.] ... Providing cash to Iran has also allowed the mullahs to circumvent the international financial system as they shuttle much-needed resources to their terrorist proxies in Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen. Since the Nuclear agreement was completed, Iran has fired four missiles in defiance of United Nations resolutions. Iran is using the cash it has received from the Obama administrations ransom payment for its military expansion and terrorist activities[.]  There must be consequences for Irans ballistic missile activities[.]

Maryam Rajavi, president of the Iranian opposition National Council of Resistance of Iran, said in a speech delivered recently in Paris:

The year since the nuclear accord, many of the sanctions were lifted and oil exports increased. But the generated revenues were poured into the inferno of the Syrian war. Dozens of political and business delegations visited Tehran, where they found a bankrupt, unstable and totally corrupt system.

While Iran this month will commemorate the 1979 revolution anniversary, an Iranian tweeted: We started the revolution holding roses...Now the roses turned into misery against us, and missile and terrorism, against the neighbors.

The new administration in the United States brings a sense of incredible insecurity and nervousness to the ayatollahs in Iran. The religious tyranny in Iran will, at last, have to face 80 million dissatisfied people while working hard to manage its over-extended proxies that continue with their crimes against nations across the region. The answer to the failed legacy of Obamas policy is definitely a policy change to end state-sponsored terrorism.

Hassan Mahmoudi is a human rights advocate and social media journalist. He graduated from California State University, Sacramento.
Muslims from countries that President Trump wants to target for extreme vetting or for banning outright the arrival of refugees in the U.S. expressed dismay at the president's executive order on refugees, saying the move will play into the hands of ISIS and other extremists who claim that America is waging war on Islam.

New York Times:

But even in countries not directly affected by the ban, it sent a dispiriting signal. It gives the impression that America is no longer the country it used to be, said Ammar Ali Hassan, a prominent Egyptian novelist. It is no longer open to skilled people from across the world. It is no longer the land of dreams. Muslims in many Western countries have felt the brunt of paranoia and racial discrimination as Islamic State attacks have continued in the past year and the public furor over immigration has grown.

Since the majority of refugees accepted by the U.S. are low0skilled workers and poor, I wonder where all these "skilled people" we're denying entry to are coming from.

And Earth to New York Times: "Muslims" and even "Arabs" do not suffer from "racial discrimination," because religions and ethnicities are not a separate "race."

Many Muslims have long viewed Americas vision of itself as hypocritical and its idealism as degraded. After years of grinding war in countries like Afghanistan and Iraq, there is a growing belief that even many Americans do not truly believe talk about America being a shining city on the hill that seeks to do good in the world. Trump has dispensed with the politeness, but that wasnt fooling people before, said Karl Sharro, a Lebanese-Iraqi architect and commentator who is based in London. In being honest about these draconian measures, a lot of people will say that at least we know where we stand now. In a recent article for Politico, Mr. Sharro drew on the growing similarities between the United States political scene and that of many Arab countries, with allegations of vote rigging, feuds involving the security services, accusations of foreign meddling and vicious arguments between the countrys leader and the media. I just collected what everyone is saying in Arab countries, he said. Its a kind of schadenfreude. Mr. Sharro said he was insulted by suggestions that the visa ban might help create a new cadre of radicalized Muslims. The assumption that these people are going to flip into terrorists and start attacking the United States is driven by some very condescending liberal assumptions, he said. Visiting the United States can already be a demeaning process for many Muslims. Refugees have to go through an exhaustive 18-month security clearance program, while visitors on tourist or business visas have complained of being sometimes singled out at American airports. Only Americans suffer from the delusion that Muslims are not already being extensively racially profiled at immigration counters when they enter the United States, said Ali Dayan Hasan, a human rights consultant from Pakistan who has regularly visited the United States since 2001.

Muslims are not being "racially profiled," because Islam is not a race, and it's dishonest to say otherwise. And when the TSA strip-searches a white grandmother while allowing most Muslims to sail through security checkpoints at airports, that hardly constitutes being "singled out" by Americans.

There appears to be a disconnect between the belief that it's okay to allow a few potential terrorists entry into the U.S.. and the reality that we have an absolute right to decide who is allowed in and who isn't. There was an unstated attitude in the Obama administration when they reduced the vetting time for refugees from 18 months to 3 months, that the few terrorists who would sneak in wouldn't kill that many Americans, and it was a small price to pay for upholding our "humanitarian" values.

Even though there have been no terrorist attacks in the U.S. from refugees, that hardly means there aren't dozens already here. In Germany, security officials admit there are 500 ISIS infiltrators who arrived mixed in with the refugees. You have to wonder how many U.S. refugees are similarly connected.

Trump's executive order is the first concrete action taken by the U.S. government to protect us from those who would take advantage of our compassion to try to kill us. It may be an inconvenience to some foreign Muslims, but a failure to recognize the reasons for the ban shows just how in denial those Muslims are about their violent co-religionists.
On Inauguration Day, President Trump entered the Oval Office and welcomed a familiar friend: the bust of Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill. During President Trump's first meeting with a foreign leader, Prime Minister Theresa May, the pair posed in the Oval Office in front of the bust of Winston Churchill. "This is the original, folks, in many, many ways," the president told the press. "It's a great honor to have Winston Churchill back."

The bronze by Sir Jacob Epstein had enjoyed a special place in the White House after the September 11, 2001 attacks during President Bush's tenure. However, when the newly inaugurated President Barack Obama discovered the Epstein bronze of Churchill in the Oval Office, he had the bust packed and shipped out of the White House faster than the speed of hate.

The Obama White House rejected the notion that the Churchill bust had ever been returned. "The bust is still in the White House. In the Residence. Outside the Treaty Room." A ridiculous staged 2010 photo was circulated to prove there was a bust of Churchill in the White House with the caption "President Barack Obama shows Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom a bust of Sir Winston Churchill in the private residence of the White House." According to the White House archives, the White House has had a bust of Winston Churchill since the 1960s.

Diplomats were reluctant to admit or discuss the whereabouts of the Churchill bronze after its ejection from the seat of American power. But after several reports in 2009, the British Embassy in Washington confirmed that Sir Jacob's work "sits in the palatial residence of ambassador Sir Nigel Sheinwald."

So what? On more than one occasion, President Obama had said "he loved Winston Churchill" or "I love Winston Churchill, love the guy." Some viewed his amorous comments as rebuffs to any suggestions that he held a grudge against Britain because of his Kenyan ancestry. Others believed that the president, who had a demonstrable penchant for falsehoods, was incapable of articulating his true feelings for Sir Winston. In Dr. Paul Kengor's research for The Communist: Frank Marshall Davis: the Untold Story of Barack Obama's Mentor, he found that the card-carrying member of Communist Party USA loathed Churchill primarily because the British prime minister was the ultimate anti-communist. At the height of World War II, Frank Marshall Davis excoriated Churchill as an imperialist in articles he wrote for the Associated Negro Press. "The only people Churchill gives a rap about are the white people of the British Empire." Did Davis transfer his hate of Churchill to his acolyte Obama?

Why did the British P.M. give President George W. Bush a bust of Churchill after 9/11? America was attacked by Islamic extremists. Sir Winston Churchill had a colorful history dealing with the Muslim world. He was more famous for several quotes on the scourge of Islam than he was on white British exceptionalism. If Obama was irked that a bust of Churchill was in the Oval Office, then Churchill's quotes on Muslims and Islam would have sent him over the cliff.

From Churchill's unabridged The River War:

How dreadful are the curses which Mohammedanism lays on its votaries! Besides the fanatical frenzy, which is as dangerous in a man as hydrophobia in a dog, there is this fearful fatalistic apathy. The effects are apparent in many countries. Improvident habits, slovenly systems of agriculture, sluggish methods of commerce, and insecurity of property exist wherever the followers of the Prophet rule or live. A degraded sensualism deprives this life of its grace and refinement; the next of its dignity and sanctity." The fact that in Mohammedan law every woman must belong to some man as his absolute property  either as a child, a wife, or a concubine  must delay the final extinction of slavery until the faith of Islam has ceased to be a great power among men. Individual Moslems may show splendid qualities. Thousands become the brave and loyal soldiers of the Queen: all know how to die. But the influence of the religion paralyzes the social development of those who follow it. No stronger retrograde force exists in the world. Far from being moribund, Mohammedanism is a militant and proselytizing faith. It has already spread throughout Central Africa, raising fearless warriors at every step, and were it not that Christianity is sheltered in the strong arms of science, the science against which it (Islam) has vainly struggled, the civilization of modern Europe might fall, as fell the civilization of ancient Rome.

And lastly:

Indeed it is evident that Christianity, however degraded and distorted by cruelty and intolerance, must always exert a modifying influence on men's passions, and protect them from the more violent forms of fanatical fever, as we are protected from smallpox by vaccinations. But the Mohammaden religion increases, instead of lessening, the fury of intolerance. It was originally propagated by the sword, and ever since its votaries have been subject, above all the peoples of all other creeds, to this form of madness.

My gut check is that President Obama, the man who couldn't utter the phrase "radical Islamic terrorism," banished the visage of Sir Winston Churchill from the White House because of his distinct anti-Islamic views, and that is the same subtle reason President Trump, who is not afraid of calling "radical Islamic terrorism" for what it is, welcomed the wise old man back into the Oval Office.

Mark is the author of espionage thrillers Special Access, Shoot Down, and No Need to Know.
In September of 2015, a huge crane operated by the Saudi Bin Laden Construction Group collapsed in Mecca during severe weather, killing 110 people and injuring 209 others. After 16 months of investigation and several court hearings, the Makkah (Mecca) Criminal Court announced that it was dropping the case because it was not within its jurisdiction.

The court informed the defense team of the 13 people on trial, consisting of Ahmed Al-Qurashi, Attorney Hassan Jomaan Al-Zahrani and Abdullah Bin Laden, that it will inform them later of the date the legal decision will be formally issued. Reports presented by the Bin Laden Group during the investigation and court sessions had shown that sudden changes in weather conditions, difficult to forecast, resulted in unusual winds, which in turn caused the collapse of the crane.

Im not in the least surprised at the outcome  just that it took this long to absolve the Bin Laden Group using the flimsy legal excuse of a lack of jurisdiction. It also seems the Saudi Arabian legal authorities have learned a lesson from FBI director James Comey when it comes to laying out a case for prosecution, then not charging the company for clear safety violations. The Bureau of Investigation and Prosecution acknowledged that the severe weather was a factor; however, the bureau:

 indicated that the main cause of the accident was the fact that the crane was subjected to heavy winds and had been kept idle in the wrong position, in violation of the operation instructions issued by the manufacturer. (emphasis added) According to the instructions, the cranes main arm should have been lowered when not in use or during instances of heavy winds. The bureau also pointed to the lack of compliance with safety standards in the operating procedures, no respect for the safety requirements, and poor communication and monitoring by safety officials responsible for the project during the poor weather conditions, despite warnings by the Presidency of Meteorology and Environmental Protection.

All of this comes on the heels of construction companies not being paid for several months, resulting in idle construction projects and massive unemployment of tens of thousands of expat workers. Yet the Bin Laden Group was awarded the contract some three years ago to construct the Jeddah Tower for 1.2B USD and has seen no interruption in construction.

So the powers that be sure dont want to see its favored construction company prosecuted for safety violations or risk its financial well-being. And if the Bin Laden Groups safety record is any indication, I certainly wouldnt set foot in a one-kilometer-high building.

John Smith is the pen name of a former U.S. intelligence officer.
Alinksys Fourth Rule is working for us these days, as more and more conservatives demand that lefties live up to their rhetoric. Last night, Tucker Carlson provided us an excellent example of the tactic.

(I am a little bit worried that lefties are going to start to realize that they are like lambs to the slaughter if they accept a booking as a guest on Tucker Carlsons eponymous Fox News show. But of course, most professional advocates of progressivism are convinced that they are so much smarter than any conservative that they have nothing to worry about.)

Last nights episode of the show featured one of the best ever demolitions of a smug prog.

J. Kevin Appleby is the senior director of international migration policy for the Center for Migration Studies (CMS) and an advocate of accepting many refugees. This may have some relation to his former work for Catholic charities, some of which earn very large amounts of money from taxpayers by providing services to refugees. More refugees = more money for those tax-exempt religious organizations providing services.

In his interview, Carlson expertly sliced and diced the arguments he received, and Appleby was unable to respond in an effective manner, in my opinion. The video (hat tip: Conservative Treehouse) takes nine minutes, but it is great!
Freshly minted U.N. ambassador Nikki Haley gave her first speech at the U.N. yesterday, and it was an eye opener  at least for most of the world, who is used to the United States meekly accepting the anti-American, anti-Israel actions taken by the world body.

The Hill:

There is a new U.S.-U.N., she said during her first speech at U.N. headquarters. "We talked to the staff yesterday and you are gonna see a change in the way we do business. Our goal, with the [Trump] administration, is to show value at the U.N., added Haley, the former GOP governor of South Carolina. "The way well show value is to show our strength, show our voice, have the backs of our allies and make sure that our allies have our back as well. For those who dont have our back, were taking names. We will make points to respond to that accordingly. Haley added the Trump White House would help improve the U.N. and reevaluate its goals as an institution. This administration is prepared and ready to have me go in, look at the U.N. and everything thats working, were going to try and make it better, she said. "Everything thats not working, were going to try and fix. And anything that seems to be obsolete, and not necessary, were going to do away with. This is a time of strength. This is a time of action. This is a time of getting things done.

Those words must have terrified the U.N. diplomats, who live a comfortable existence at the expense of the American taxpayer.

The former governor blasted the U.N. Security Councils December vote condemning Israels settlement building in disputed territories during her confirmation hearing last week. Nowhere has the U.N.s failure been more consistent and more outrageous than in its bias against our close ally Israel, Haley said during her Jan. 18 opening remarks. Any honest assessment also finds an institution that is often at odds with American national interests and American taxpayers  are we getting what we pay for? Haley was questioning Americas funding to the U.N., which constitutes about 22 percent of the global organizations budget. Trump, who has also denounced the U.N. Security Councils vote on Israeli settlement building, called the institution obsolete earlier this month.

There is so much wrong with the U.N. that Haley doesn't need to look very far to initiate reforms. At the top of the list must be the U.N. secretariat  the huge, bureaucratic mess that serves the U.N. secretary general. The secretariat is a colossal waste of money, and efforts to reform it in the past have met with fierce resistance.

In addition, departments like the Commission on Human Rights are a joke. Putting nations that violate human rights with impunity on a commission that regularly criticizes the U.S. and Israel for "violations" needs to be eliminated.

The U.N. is a black hole for American tax dollars with billions misspent or wasted. It will be a tall order for Haley to make a dent in reforming an institution so resistant to change and corrupt to its core.
A recent university analysis has given a basis for the Trump argument that there is significant voter fraud. Old Dominion associate professor Jesse Richman, through an online, survey has suggested that 100,000 non-citizens may have cast votes for Hillary Clinton. The extension of this analysis is that as many as 800,000 non-citizens could have voted for the Clinton candidacy. Richman cautions that this number is likely too high, though. Some Republicans want to avoid this issue, as they fear a legitimacy backlash. Democrats at first laughed about this but now want to stop any search for information.

Trumps pop statement after a congressional leadership meeting earlier in the week has reopened the issue despite attempts on the left to quiet it. Democrats claim that this investigation will result in voter suppression. The question is whether these suppressed voters are eligible under our laws. In some states, registration requires persons only to certify eligibility. In Washington State , a drivers license and state ID is required. The voter certifies eligibility. Other states such as New York give registration forms to persons when they get automobile licenses. California also encourages non-citizens to gain drivers licenses. This system can unintentionally register non-eligible persons to vote.

Further, the vote recount requested by Jill Stein in Michigan ended when the vote count in Detroit was found to exceed the number of persons that actually came to vote. The system is managed by the states individually. The real concern for Democrats is that systematic violations will be uncovered.

The system does not eliminate voter registrations in multiple states when people move from one state to another. One report claims that over 6 million voters have registrations in more than one state. The number is estimated by others to be closer to 3 million. This now threatens the integrity and confidence of all sides.

Finally, the registration rolls do not always purge dead persons . In this analysis, it is estimated that 1.8 million registrants have died but not been removed from the rolls. Attempts to purge these names have been met with resistance, which furthers concerns of fraud.

Now that an investigation will begin on Trumps order, the opposition cites the cost of this effort. When Democrats argue about excessive costs, one might question the motives. Perhaps Trump has found another issue with which to tweak the Democrats. In any event, he has changed the press narrative from Putin to voter eligibility. Smart like the fox, perhaps.
The Washington Post has provided yet another tiresome front-page smear against Israeli Jews who want to live in an area considered disputed territory, though Israel won it after being attacked by Jordan in 1967 ("Israel forges ahead on new housing" 1/25/17). This is land the Palestinians claim to want for a future state, though they refuse to sit down and negotiate for it. The Post repeats once again that Jewish housing construction in the West Bank is "condemned by most of the world." Former president Obama called the neighborhoods "illegitimate."

This same "most of the world" condemned misbehaving countries 24 times with U.N. General Assembly resolutions in 2016. With all the horrible human rights violations and atrocities in the world, there was only one resolution against Syria, one against Russia, one against Iran, and one against North Korea. Zero against the entire rest of the world. Whom were the remaining 20 against? You guessed it! They were against one of the smallest countries in the world  the only democracy in the Middle East  Israel.

The tally of the resolutions speaks for itself to any honest person. It is quite clear, therefore, that "most of the world's" views are illegitimate. The Washington Post's preoccupation with Jewish homes is also illegitimate.
Chinese Premier Li Keqiang meets with foreign experts working in China prior to the Lunar Chinese New Year, in Beijing, capital of China, Jan. 20, 2017. [Xinhua/Pang Xinglei]

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang's recent announcement was significant. The timing, however, caused it to be somewhat hidden among the international headlines covering Donald Trump's inauguration as the 45th U.S. president. The message, nevertheless, was clear: China welcomes high-level international talent to boost its innovation, business and scientific development.

This follows a period of sustained policy changes aimed at attracting more foreign experts to boost the country's innovation-driven growth and increase its soft power. Judging from reports in the international media, President Xi Jinping's keynote speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos on Jan. 17 represented a well-received push to highlight China's soft power, showing the world that the country welcomes professionals with the right skill sets. Indeed, Premier Li expressed his strong interest to "fully tap into the wisdom and creativity of every individual," from scholar or senior corporate officer.

A number of practical measures have been implemented in recent months to make the country a more attractive destination for high-level foreign talent. These include easing red tape and requirements to obtain work permits and, eventually, permanent residency for Master's and doctorate degree holders.

However, Zhang Jianguo, head of the State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs, put his finger astutely on one of the most significant impediments preventing the country from becoming a scientific and innovation powerhouse in the short term. He pointed out that the lack of top-tier talent in cutting-edge domains and China's insufficient attraction to high-end talent are hampering sustained progress, according to news reports in the People's Daily.

It will take some time to address these issues comprehensively. A two-pronged approach of attracting high-level foreign expertise and supporting innovative homegrown research teams will likely be most productive in the medium term.

In recent years, we have seen sustained improvements in attracting high-level, mostly junior foreign talent. Indeed, year-on-year the number of newly minted doctorate degree holders from abroad that venture to Chinese research institutions increases. While the number of non-Chinese postdoctoral researchers at mainland universities and research institutions was a mere trickle only a decade ago, China is rapidly becoming a credible destination for recent graduates from prestigious international programs at top universities in Europe and the U.S.A.

Current recruitment challenges can be grouped into three categories. One revolves around the general perception of China as a destination country. With few exceptions, international scientists based in China appear to thrive and they also seem quite happy in their personal lives. When we talk to our friends and colleagues abroad, however, we often face a lack of comprehension in relation to any positive comments we may make about the possibilities of pursuing a research career in China. President Xi's speech in Davos was an important attempt to address such perceptions.

Second, a potential practical impediment facing junior scientists coming to China is that they need to retain high international visibility if they ever want to secure a higher-level job elsewhere in the international community. Junior scientists need to establish themselves first, which is ideally done through networking in their respective international communities, but the mere fact of China's geographical location with respect to the traditional scientific powerhouses may make this a daunting and potentially costly prospect.

Third, Western postdoctoral scientists are often concerned about the perceptions of their mentors in relation to a move to China, where the relative rankings of the host universities comes into play. This latter aspect is, therefore, yet another reason why Chinese universities are hotly pursuing improved rankings in the international league tables - an approach that has yielded fruit in recent years.

Although recruitment of high-level junior international talent to China appears to be on a positive trajectory, the same cannot yet be said of their senior counterparts. The number of long-term senior scientists at China's top universities is still small. This may well change as Chinese research programs and institutes become more competitive internationally, but it is very important to realize that attracting senior foreign talent to long-term appointments will only succeed if they feel at home and respected at their new positions.

This implies that they should be taken seriously as members of their newly adopted Chinese scientific community rather than merely seen as temporary visitors. They should ideally be allowed to be actively involved in policy discussions affecting their fields and be eligible to compete for the nation's top awards and funding sources. Only then will China's research environment be on a par with those of its main competitors on the international stage. And only then will China have a fighting chance to attract the best and brightest international talents to its top research institutes.

Richard de Grijs is a Dutch professor of astrophysics at the Kavli Institute for Astronomy and Astrophysics (Peking University) in Beijing. He has been actively involved in recruiting international postdoctoral researchers to China since 2009.

Opinion articles reflect the views of their authors, not necessarily those of China.org.cn.
Google Opinion Rewards has a new update that gives users the option to turn on notification sounds for whenever a new survey or task is available. This fixes a major pain point with the app, being that users often missed survey windows while going about their normal daily business because the surveys would expire by the time they got a chance to look at their phone, or the notifications would go away for one reason or another after a while, as notifications sometimes do. This update makes Google Opinion Rewards an even better way for Play Store fans to earn a bit of money to spend on their favorite apps, games, and media in the Play Store.

Google Opinion Rewards has been improving just a bit with each release, becoming more full-featured and stable over time. The collection of available questions has sometimes dipped into rather tantalizing territory, to boot, with questions about things like Project Ara and the name candidates for Android N popping up. Google often seems to be using the app as a test bed for ideas in the Android space. The user interface has been updated recently to be more in line with the rest of Googles app suite, though it was far from the most recent to do so, and some apps are still in need of a makeover.

Google Opinion Rewards has been around since 2013, and the basic premise has never really changed. Google can gather a lot of data from user activity and trends, but some data can only be accurately collected by asking users direct questions, which is exactly what the app has always done. Questions about market trends and product preferences, device use cases, and pop culture have all ended up on the screens of Google Opinion Rewards users over the years. One thing that has always plagued the service is users saying that theyre not getting enough survey opportunities, and Google not revealing exactly how they figure out who should be doing what surveys and when. Hopefully, todays update should alleviate that at least a little by ensuring that users get a fair chance to participate in each survey that theyre entitled to.
Educators are adopting the Google Chromebook platform, shunning the expensive and fragile Apple iPad, and the complicated Windows laptop market. Over the years weve seen schools buying more and more Chromebooks for students and the devices are helped by coming complete with a keyboard, as many school districts insist that computers for education come with a hardware keyboard. The equipment itself is relatively inexpensive helped because Chrome OS has a light touch compared with many other operating systems, which means that Chrome OS computers do not need especially powerful hardware. Additional software for educators is cheap at just $30 and the Chromebook platform is easy to setup and deploy, and thanks to how Chrome OS offers seamless updating, is fast and easy to maintain with software updates.

Weve seen Microsoft release and re-release different products designed to take on the Chromebook platform head on, plus supporting marketing literature denouncing the Chromebooks lack of offline functionality. However, these tactics do not appear to be working in isolation as the company is still pushing its computers for education. Its also true that Microsoft has been able to watch how the Chromebook has steadily pushed into the education sector and has learned from Google. Windows 10 was offered as a free upgrade for many customers and on a cheap computer, licence costs can make up a big part of the overall cost. Furthermore, Windows 10 has been refined and made more efficient such that the operating system runs well on similar hardware to the Google Chromebook: the days of a slow, cheap laptop offering a torrid Windows experience are mostly behind us, at least if system administrators are able to manage and maintain the device.

Here, Microsoft has learned something from Google too and the company has launched a new Intune for Education program, built upon Microsofts Intune service, which sets up and manages students Windows 10 laptops. Along with the program are new laptops from established brands, such as Acer, HP and Lenovo, with prices starting from $189. The Intune for Education service costs the same as Googles equivalent, at $30 per device, with Microsoft excitedly explaining that the program offers the power, performance and security [of Windows] for the same price as a Chromebook installation but without any of the compromises. The advertising for the scheme explains how schools put devices in classrooms and not touch them again for the rest of the school year. Intune for Education also offers an express setup function, which allows system administrators to apply over 150 settings to Windows 10 devices to control the hardware, applications, web browser and antivirus software  assigned to individual students. Intune for Education ships with School Data Sync, which allows students can be placed into different groups for particular applications. On this, Microsoft said: For example, if a student is added to a photography class in the school roster, they will automatically be added to the group in Intune for Education and get the relevant apps.

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Is this enough? There are some newly launched laptops that are designed with Intune for Education, such as the HP Stream G3 ($189) and the Acer Travelmate Spin B118 convertible (due later in the year for $299). However, Lenovo have not disclosed pricing or availability of their three new laptops designed for the the Intune for Education market, two new variants of a new ThinkPad 11e and the N24 convertible device. Theres a specialist education laptop by JP.IK, the Turn T201, which has a 360-degree convertible hinge, an active stylus, a retractable handle, a basic microscope, and a thermal probe. We dont yet have a price for this hardware either. School districts may need to wait and see how inexpensive the new equipment is before deciding if the new Microsoft scheme is worth it.

Another point to consider is if the Microsoft proposition offers the same value as the Google Chromebook and this includes considering the disadvantages of Windows compared with Chromebooks. These include the need to install and maintain antivirus software, and if Office 365 is worth paying for. Currently, the enterprise or corporate world favors using Microsoft Office whereas startup businesses have a preference for Google Docs. Google offers cross-compatibility with Office files, but a Windows machine could run the Google Chrome browser and allow easy access to the Google Docs service. Lets not forget the idea of quickly applying changes to 150 individual settings, either. Its good for educators to have a choice, and each platform offers its own spread of benefits and disadvantages. Microsofts argument that the Windows platform is more powerful carries some weight, but the hardware is often more expensive and requires more time to setup and maintain. The Chromebook platform is simpler to operate, harder for students to interfere with, runs on inexpensive hardware and is growing quickly in the education sphere: its understandable why Microsoft is scrabbling around trying to offer a comparable product.
On Friday, Google has issued a recall note to American-based staff advising them to immediately return home after new President Trump signed an executive order banning immigration from seven majority-Muslim nations for 90 days. Although the order directly impacts citizens of Syria, Iraq, Iran, Sudan, Somalia, Yemen and Libya, Google is clearly taking no chances here. Googles Chief Executive Officer, Sundar Pichai, explained in a memo to employees that one of their employees rushed back to the United States during a trip to New Zealand before the order was signed. Pichais memo went on to explain, Its painful to see the personal cost of this executive order on our colleagues Weve always made our view on immigration issues known publicly and will continue to do so. Google and Pichais sentiments echo those of several other large American technology companies, which have relatively large numbers of immigrants working for them. A spokeswoman for Google highlighted how the company are, concerned about the impact of this order and any proposals that could impose restrictions on Googlers and their families, or that create barriers to bringing great talent to the U.S.

Google have asked any impacted staff to contact Googles security, travel and immigration teams. The company is believed to have up to a hundred employees overseas at the moment, either on assignment or vacation and the company is worried that even with a valid visa, employees may not be able to return home if they are from one of the seven banned countries. Ava Benach, partner at immigration law company Benach Collopy LLP, explained: No one is really sure whether a green card holder from these seven countries can return to the U.S. now. Its fairly clear that an H-1B visa holder cant. The H-1B visa allows American businesses to employ graduate-level employees from other countries for technical posts. Its likely to be a popular type of visa for Google employees. The New York Daily News reported that late Friday, a number of green card and visa holders were stopped from boarding flights to the United States of America.

Googles caution over the changes to United States immigration law has been echoed by both Facebook and Microsoft. Facebooks Chief Executive is said to be concerned by President Trumps restrictions on immigration and Microsoft issued a securities filing on Thursday with a note that explained any new restrictions may inhibit our ability to adequately staff our research and development efforts. The Executive Order lasts for ninety days, giving the authorities time to draw up new immigration legislation.
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China witnessed a surge in tourist numbers on Friday, the first day of the week-long Lunar New Year holiday, official data showed on Saturday.

The number of tourists jumped 10.4 percent year on year to 50.5 million. Tourist-generated income climbed to 59 billion yuan (around 8.67 billion U.S. dollars), up 13.3 percent from one year earlier, according to data from the China National Tourism Administration.

In Beijing alone, 294,000 tourists visited the city's 160 key scenic spots on Friday.

China's northwestern Gansu Province received 860,500 travellers, up 22.1 percent year on year. The province reaped tourist revenues of 520 million yuan, up 25.9 percent year on year.

In terms of outbound tourism, Phuket and Bangkok of Thailand, Nha Trang of Vietnam, Bali of Indonesia, and Singapore were among most popular destinations.

It is estimated that over six million Chinese people will travel abroad during the holiday.
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The Moroccan King Mohammed VI left for Ethiopia on Friday to attend the upcoming African Union (AU) Summit, official news agency MAP reported.

Last week, the Moroccan parliament unanimously approved the Constitutive Act of the African Union, its additional protocol and the bill on the approval of the act to allow the Moroccan government to continue its bid to rejoin the AU.

The council of ministers, chaired by the king, approved the draft on Jan. 10.

Morocco left the Organization of African Unity, the predecessor of the AU, in 1984.

Last September, the North African country made an official request to rejoin the organization.

In recent weeks, the Moroccan king has visited several African countries to seek support for its return to the AU.

The 28th AU Summit is slated to take place on Jan. 30-31 in the Ethiopia's capital Addis Ababa.
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The armed conflict, which rages in eastern Ukraine for almost three years, has taken its toll on some 950,000 children, an official from the presidential administration said on Friday.

"Up to date, around one in eight of Ukrainian children have been affected by the conflict in the east," Mykola Kuleba, the President's commissioner for children's rights, told reporters.

The months of violence have endangered the lives of some 100,000 children living near the frontline of fighting and forced about 250,000 others to flee their homes, Kuleba said.

He added that some 600,000 children are still residing in the conflict-torn territories, which are controlled by independence-seeking insurgents.

According to the government's estimates, at least 68 Ukrainian children were killed in the crossfire between government troops and rebels, while 186 others were wounded since April 2014.

Besides, 80 children were on board the Malaysia Airlines flight MH17, which crashed in eastern Ukraine in July 2014, leaving no survivors.
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YEREVAN, JANUARY 28, ARMENPRESS. Billionaire internet entrepreneur, founder and CEO of Facebook Mark Zuckerberg criticized US President Donald Trumps executive orders on immigration policy.

Zuckerberg posted on his personal Facebook page the following statement:

My great grandparents came from Germany, Austria and Poland. Priscilla's parents were refugees from China and Vietnam. The United States is a nation of immigrants, and we should be proud of that.

Like many of you, I'm concerned about the impact of the recent executive orders signed by President Trump.

We need to keep this country safe, but we should do that by focusing on people who actually pose a threat. Expanding the focus of law enforcement beyond people who are real threats would make all Americans less safe by diverting resources, while millions of undocumented folks who don't pose a threat will live in fear of deportation.

We should also keep our doors open to refugees and those who need help. That's who we are. Had we turned away refugees a few decades ago, Priscilla's family wouldn't be here today.

That said, I was glad to hear President Trump say he's going to "work something out" for Dreamers -- immigrants who were brought to this country at a young age by their parents. Right now, 750,000 Dreamers benefit from the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program that allows them to live and work legally in the US. I hope the President and his team keep these protections in place, and over the next few weeks I'll be working with our team at FWD.us to find ways we can help.

I'm also glad the President believes our country should continue to benefit from "people of great talent coming into the country."

These issues are personal for me even beyond my family. A few years ago, I taught a class at a local middle school where some of my best students were undocumented. They are our future too. We are a nation of immigrants, and we all benefit when the best and brightest from around the world can live, work and contribute here. I hope we find the courage and compassion to bring people together and make this world a better place for everyone.

On January 27, Donald Trump signed executive orders on suspending refugees arrivals to the United States for 120 days. Mr. Trump's order directs the State Department to stop issuing visas to Syrian nationals and halts the processing of Syrian refugees.
YEREVAN, JANUARY 28, ARMENPRESS. Galust Sahakyan, Speaker of Armenias Parliament assesses the domestic politics situation as normal, without intrigues.

Everything moves on its course, its the usual path of our lives, if you take a path, you must finish it, but if you deviate from that path, then naturally you also lose things. Its the same in politics, Sahakyan said regarding former PM Hovik Abrahamyans departure, adding he doesnt think the 2015 February events will re-occur.

If any problem happens which will harm our state, anything is possible. But such situation cant happen, because its an election process, I think the political teams are sure that after the elections no one can accuse one another for anything, Sahakyan said.

Former Prime Minister Hovik Abrahamyan announced on January 24 that he is stepping down as Vice President of the ruling party (RPA).
YEREVAN, JANUARY 28, ARMENPRESS. The ministry of transportation, communication and IT says as of 13:30 the Vayk-Jermuk highway and the road-turns section of Saravan have been shut down due to a snowstorm and low visibility.

The abovementioned highways will remain closed in the upcoming hours, the ministry told ARMENPRESS.

Drivers are advised to avoid travelling to the mentioned parts.

Additional information will be provided.
YEREVAN, JANUARY 28, ARMENPRESS. Serving in the Armenian Army is a great honor for anyone, Larisa Alaverdyan, co-chair of the Against Legal Arbitrariness NGO told ARMENPRESS.

I congratulate the servicemen of the Armenian Army, those who have served and those who are yet to serve. The Armenian Army is the guarantee of our countrys eternity. I wish our Army to grow stronger each day, Alaverdyan said.

According to her, the Armenian Army is an accomplished structure, which has passed a path full of courageous acts and heroism. Not only the heroism of the 90s, which returned us our lands, but also the heroic battle of our young soldiers during the April War. The new generation demonstrated a new quality and proved that regardless the problems in the state, they are ready to go to the end, without sparing their lives, Alaverdyan said.

Recalling the April War, Alaverdyan particularly said: Ive had the honor to see the faces of the men who were fighting in Talish. Thats when I got convinced that the Armenian people have nothing to be concerned about.

January 28 marks the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Armenian Army. On January 28, 1992, the Government adopted a historic decision On the Defense Ministry of Armenia, heralding the formation of the Armenian Army. The first draft took place in May of 1992.
They called for the film industry not to be silent on the issue this time and come together against it.

The attack on Bhansali was also captured on camera.

Mumbai: Numerous Bollywood stars vociferously raised against their voice against the attack on acclaimed filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali on the sets of his film 'Padmavati' starring Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh in Jaipur.

Members of a group called Rajput Karni Sena on Friday slapped Bhansali and pulled him by his hair on the sets of the film at Jaigarh Fort and also vandalised the sets of the film.

According to the members, the filmmaker is presenting wrong facts about the Rajput queen Padmavati, on whom the film is based on, and that was reason for their action.

Several B-Town stars took to Twitter to express her anger at the incident. Almost all the celebrities on Twitter tweeted how engared they were at the incident while also expressing support to the filmmaker.

The hashtag #IStandBySLB also started trending on Twitter post the incident. The celebrities also demanded action against the attackers while throwing light on the industry repeatedly getting targeted for various reasons. They called for the film industry not to be silent on the issue this time and come together to raising their voice.

Read some of the tweets by celebrities
They reportedly stormed the set and damaged some chairs and other objects, forcing stoppage of the shooting.

Bollywood stars have come out in support of Sanjay Leela Bhansali.

Jaipur: Five persons, who were detained for creating nuisance on the sets of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's film 'Padmavati', have been released, police said on Saturday. They were allegedly involved in creating nuisance during the shooting of the film in Jaigarh yesterday, SHO Amer Police Station Narendra Kumar said.

They were detained and later released yesterday.

Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali was allegedly assaulted yesterday by activists of a Rajput community group who also forced stoppage of shooting of his movie 'Padmavati' by vandalising the set at Jaigarh Fort, alleging that the director was "distorting facts".

Police said it had detained five persons for disturbing peace even though no complaint was received from Bhansali's side.

The ruckus took place when the film, in which Deepika Padukone is playing Padmavati and Ranveer Singh is playing Alaudin Khilji, was being shot at the historic fort, eyewitnesses said.

The activists of Karni Sena had gathered at the site and demanded stoppage of the shooting. They stormed the set and damaged some chairs and other objects, forcing stoppage of the shooting.

After the incident, the director decided not to go ahead with the shooting in the state.

"We had warned the filmmakers against presenting wrong facts. When we came to know about the shooting, we gathered there and protested. Besides the Karni Sena activists, there were several other people who had gone there to watch the shooting. Someone from the mob slapped him and pulled his hair," district president of Karni Sena Narayan Singh had claimed.

"There was a protest and the issue was settled after both the parties held talks," DPC North (Jaipur) Anshuman Bhomia had said.

He had said that no FIR was lodged by anyone but five persons have been detained by the police for disturbing peace.

Singh had claimed that Bhansali wants to present a "distorted fact" about Rani Padmavati which will not tolerated by the Rajput community.
While the film fraternity shows its outrage over the attack on SLB, some believe that it is time for more hands-on action than tweeting.

The buzz around Padmavati took a sudden and drastic turn on Friday, when the members of a radical group  the Rajput Karni Sena  stormed the sets of the movie in Jaigarh, Rajasthan. The group vandalised the sets and even roughed up the director. Rajput Karni Sena shot the entire altercation and subsequently released the video. While the police had detained five individuals for disturbing the peace, following no action from Sanjay Leela Bhansalis quarters, they have been released from custody.

The film fraternity, in the meantime, has risen as one against the outrage, with prominent filmmakers and actors taking to Twitter to express their solidarity with the director and condemning the incident. Some, however, believe that the time for dialogue and tweeting is over and that stricter action needs to be taken.

A hashtag wont change things. We need assurance from the central government and state government that they will ensure that such a thing does not repeat itself. It has been over 17 years that the Shiv Sena blackened my face over a dialogue in a film, and if anything, the situation has only become worse, says filmmaker Hansal Mehta.

Screen grab of the video where the director was attacked.

Director Anil Sharma, who shot his iconic film Gadar: Ek Prem Katha in Rajasthan, says that he is shocked at this development, as he had expected better from the government and the police force of the city. This whole event is simply not acceptable  if you have a point to put across then you come and speak with the director. You dont go and beat him up! Whether they were right or wrong in what they thought doesnt even matter at this point; what matters is that their method was wrong. Where were the police and security personnel when this was happening? he asks, outraged.

Director Mohit Suri concurs with Anils views and adds that, in a country where Mahatma Gandhi conveyed the message of non-violence, and where this motto should have become a cornerstone of society, it is especially shocking to find these instances of violent outbursts. We have a board for film certification, which can decide if something is historically relevant or if something insults someones religious sentiments. Who are these people to come and take matters into their own hands this way? How do they even know what is happening in the film when it hasnt even been shot yet, demands an angry Mohit, adding that he is speaking, not as a fellow fraternity member, but as a citizen of India when he asks for strict government action.

The culpability, however, says Hansal, lies partly with the fraternity itself, since it has failed to stand up for itself on so many occasions prior to this. This is a result of our own silence and subservience to the continuous process of suppression of our cultural freedom, which has been going on for a while now. Our freedom of expression has been systematically curtailed but there is no systematic counter effort from the fraternity, he says, adding that such acts of violence have probably just begun.

Vivek Agnihotri, who was also mobbed by university students and sustained injuries in an altercation, while promoting Buddha in a Traffic Jam sympathises with SLBs predicament. However, he encourages a more active participation from the film fraternity to counter this type of violence. These events are purely extortionist and are meant as a threat. The film fraternity doesnt express its outrage on Twitter, when a smaller director faces a similar predicament. Also, just tweeting about it isnt enough. Associations in the film industry should come together and do something about this. If production houses like Phantom Films and Dharma Productions were to simply say that we will make no more films till something is done, then the government would be bound to act, he says confidently.
'One white light and simultaneously two blasting sounds were heard,' on March 4, 1968, above Ladakh.

The CIA documented three UFO sightings in Sikkim and Ladakh in March 1968. (Photo: Pixabay/Representational)

Mumbai: Of the thousands of declassified documents published online by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), one contains details about sightings of unidentified flying objects, or UFOs, in India, Nepal and Bhutan.

The CIA documented a total of six UFO sightings over south Ladakh, north east Nepal, north Sikkim and western Bhutan in 1968. Three UFOs were sighted in Ladhak, India.

The CIA report, dated April 11, 1968, gives specific details of the date, local time and area of the UFO sightings in the regions. Two flying saucers were spotted in Ladakh, one on March 4 and another on March 25 and one in Sikkim on the night of February 19, 1968, according to the CIA report.

The UFO in Sikkim was flying from South-east to North-west over Lachung, Lachen, Thangu, Muguthang and Chholamu. A thunder sound was heard in Chholamu after sighting the object.

In Ladakh, one white light and simultaneously two blasting sounds were heard. Also, one reddish light followed by white smoke, was seen at 1 pm on March 4, 1968, above Chang La, Fukche and Koyul.

The one cited over Ladakh on March 4 was following a circular path. Left a trail of smoke behind it. Another flying saucer was spotted on the night of March 25, 1968, and it was rocket-like with a white-yellow-white trail about 20 yards long at a height of 20-25,000 feet.

While two UFOs were sighted in Nepal, one on February 19 and another on March 25, one was spotted over Thimpu in Bhutan on February 21.

One blazing object, was seen over Kaski in Nepal on the night of March 25, 1968. It was flashing intermittently and disintegrated, the report said. A huge metallic disc-shaped object with a six-foot base and four feet in height was found in a crater at Baltichaur, five miles NE of Pokhara, it added.
The Centre had approached the EC seeking clearance for the regular radio programme as Model Code of Conduct is in force in 5 states.

New Delhi: The Election Commission has given a go ahead to the next episode of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Mann ki Baat' programme to be aired on Sunday.

The government had approached the Commission seeking clearance for the regular radio programme as Model Code of Conduct is in force in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Goa and Manipur that are going for assembly polls between February 4 and March 8.

The Commission has now cleared the programme, sources said.

The government had been approaching the Commission for clearance of the radio programme from the poll panel during assembly elections.

This time, the focus of 'Mann ki baat' will be the Class X and XII Board examinations. The exam will commence from March 9, a day after the last vote is cast in the assembly polls.
January 27, 2017

Tehran, IRAN  One of the key underlying economic challenges of Iran is the current underfunding of its pension system. Make no mistake: Pension reform must be a priority for the country. Figures posted by the Ministry of Cooperative, Labor and Social Welfare show that "a major portion of pension funds have either gone completely bust or are among the ones relying tremendously on state resources," reported Eqtesad News on Jan. 23.

The most important issues are the imposition of financial obligations by consecutive administrations over the past four decades as well as the approval of populist legislation by various parliaments, and particularly under the previous conservative government. Combined with the pension funds own financial problems, the situation is truly dire.

By politically influencing the pension reserves, consecutive governments have mismanaged the assets owned by these funds. At present, most of them are accumulating large, unsustainable and unfunded pension liabilities. In this vein, problems concerning equity, efficiency and management are pervasive. In an interview with business weekly Tejarat-e-Farda on Oct. 8, 2016, Mohsen Riazi, the deputy of the social and economic planning office at the Social Security Organization (SSO), said, Policies such as early retirement in difficult and hazardous occupations and renovation of industries that have played a great role in the financial misbalance of the largest pension fund in the country [belonging to the SSO] date back to the Reformist government [1997-2005].

Riazi also reiterated that the Health Reform Scheme modeled on Obamacare that is implemented by President Hassan Rouhani or increasing retirees monthly pension payments by 800,000 rials ($25) at the end of the first term of Mahmoud Ahmadinejads presidency (2005-2009) could be referred to as embittering policies exerted on the SSO, shrinking its meager financial resources to a minimum.

Another issue aggravating the dire situation of pension funds is the protective laws ratified by lawmakers who consistently have passed populist bills supposedly in support of vulnerable groups in society. Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani, who is also the deputy head of the parliamentary economic commission, has addressed parliamentarians approval of bills relevant to pension funds, saying, In the previous [parliamentary] terms, occasionally the members of parliament conducting their duties as representatives suffered from politicization and made rash decisions.

He added, This brought about a crisis for pension funds, and sadly, the resulting actions of the preceding parliament [2012-2016] are not very defensible.

Indeed, in a session held on Jan. 15, members of parliament  without counseling appropriate expert agencies such as the parliaments Research Center or conducting any other conventional investigations  voted for a bill on the early retirement of working women who have merely contributed payments to their respective pension funds for 20 years, without pushing for any age limit. This is while no actuarial calculations of such a decision and its likely impact on fund assets have ever been carried out. That being said, preliminary estimates indicate that the move will cost pension funds some 1,000 trillion rials ($31 billion) collectively over five years alone.

Minister of Cooperatives, Labor and Social Welfare Ali Rabiee has expressed his concerns over the alarming conditions of pension funds. Addressing parliament on June 14, 2016, he said, The total budget deficit of pension and insurance funds stood at about 360 trillion rials [$11 billion] through the end of the Iranian calendar year 1394 (ending March 19, 2016). He added, Casting a blind eye on fund-holding principles caused the deficit to grow from approximately 42 trillion rials [$1.3 billion] in 2005 to 600 trillion rials in 2013, adding to the governments debt, and continuing the same trajectory, the deficit is climbing exponentially.

Meanwhile, the demographic transition Iran is experiencing suggests that the number of people paying social security premiums will gradually decline while those entitled to the benefits of yearslong contributions to the pension system will increase. Indeed, it is estimated that the percentage of over-65-year-olds in Iran will reach 10%, 15% and 25% in 2021, 2036 and 2049, respectively. The disproportion between contributions received and benefits paid by pension funds severely damages their financial capability.

Needless to say, the promised benefits are not in line with retirement rules and contribution rates. As is the case in Iran, basing pension entitlements on the final two years of earnings rather than the average of pay over ones lifetime appears unfair and might be open to abuse. This has worsened the standard for the replacement ratio, meaning a person's gross income after retirement divided by his or her gross income before retirement.

It is noteworthy that the replacement ratio in Iran is already one of the highest in the world. According to Esmail Gorjipour, the head of the social security office at the Ministry of Cooperatives, Labor and Social Welfare, the ratio was 85% of the final salary at SSO and 87% in the Civil Servants Pension Fund (CSPF) in the Iranian year ending March 20, 2015. In addition, the support ratio  the number of people aged 15-64 per person aged 65 or above  which normally should be around 5, is 0.93 for CSPF and 4.57 for SSO. These ratios are indicative of an imminent crisis for a majority of pension funds in Iran.

Many pundits have warned about the disastrous consequences of any deferral in taking proper and immediate action to help pension funds out of crisis, as they believe the funds are already on the brink of bankruptcy.

Indeed, the time for change is now, as correctly advised by an in-depth report on pension funds in the region conducted by the World Bank in 2005. The recommended changes and reforms, nonetheless, should be executed by introducing systematic and/or parametric modifications to pension funds. If not, the odds are that Iran will have to pay a heavy penalty by exposing itself to the risk of social and political upheaval in the foreseeable future.
BJP MP Nalin Kumar Kateel said Kambala had history of 800 years and it was a tradition of Tulunadu.

Activists protest seeking the permission to hold kambala (buffalo race), at Chikmagalur in Karnataka. (Photo: PTI)

Mangaluru: Stepping up pressure on the government following the success of the Jallikattu stir in Tamil Nadu, students, artistes and politicians on Friday staged a massive protest here, demanding removal of the ban on Kambala, a traditional buffalo race in the coastal region held annually.

All-College Students Association along with Tulu film artistes, Yakshagana artistes, politicians and members of Tulunada Rakshana Vedike staged protest at Hampankatta here, lending momentum to the growing demand on the issue.

Noted personalities from Tulu film industry, including actors Devdas Kapikad, Naveen D Padil, Bhojaraj Vamanjoor, director-producer Vijay Kumar Kodai-lbail, BJP MP Nalin Kumar Kateel, Congress MLA Mo-hiuddin Bava and others, called for immediate government action to ensure continuation of Kambala.

Students from various colleges formed a human chain. Mr Kateel said Kambala had history of 800 years and it was a tradition of Tulunadu.

Tulu, a Dravidian language, is spoken in a small region, mainly in coastal Karnataka and Keralas Kasaragod district, collectively known as Tulu Nadu.

The student fraternity had gathered to protect Kambala and prove youth power, he said, alleging that People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals was projecting Kambala in a wrong way claiming that buffaloes were subjected to cruelty, but in fact they were treated with great care and concern.

The protest would continue until ban on Kambala was withdrawn, he said.

Mr Kateel had on Thursday threatened to observe a fast unto death if the state government did not promulgate an ordinance on Kambala.

Addressing the protest, Bava said Kambala was a unifying sport and the people of the district were closely attached to it irrespective of religion, caste and creed. The fight would be continued until justice is done.

Theatre director Vijaykumar Kodialbail said there was no instance of buffaloes being tortured during Kambala.
The NGO had collected detailed information about the reasons that led to suicides by 41 farmers.

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Friday sought response of the Centre and all states on an NGOs allegation that drought and debt drove more than 600 farmers to commit suicide in Gujarat alone between 2003 and 2012, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the chief minister.

A bench of Chief Justice J.S. Khehar and Justice N.V. Ramana issued not-ice and sought the Centre response to whether there is any policy on crop loans when there is a natural calamity. The bench also wanted the Reserve Bank of India to indicate the policy on loan waiver in such situations.

The notice was issued on a petition filed by Mallika Sarabhai-founded NGO Citizens Resource and Action Initiative, which challenged the Gujarat high courts decision not to intervene in the case on the ground that farmers relief and rehabilitation was a state policy matter.

The court in 2014 had issued notice only to Gujarat. During the resumed hearing, senior counsel Colin Gonsalves pointed out that there is no policy regarding loan waiver in case of crop loss due to natural calamities and farmers are left with only crop insurance.

The NGO said its coordinator, Bharat Sinh Jhala, had made a series of RTI queries forcing the Gujarat government to disclose that from 2003 till 2007, as many as 498 farmers committed suicide. In response to another RTI query, the state informed that between 2008 and 2012, another 121 farmers committed suicide, taking the number of officially acknowledged farmers suicides to 619.

Mr Jhala said he had written to the chief minister and chief secretary of Gujarat on May 25, 2013, requesting financial assistance to the kin of farmers who committed suicide due to crop failure.

The NGO had collected detailed information about the reasons that led to suicides by 41 farmers. The reasons were increasing amount of loan, cotton crop failure due to no rain, bad economic situation, inability to pay instalments for loans taken for tractor, seeds and other agricultural implements.

The petitioner said among the suicides, the most striking incident was the mass suicide on April 8, 2013, by the entire family of Rathilal Jeevabai Maladiya of Daldi village in Rajkot district.

The family of five jumped in front of a running train. Three of them died on the spot and other two were seriously injured, it said and urged apex courts intervention to save the lives of farmers.
Unhappy over ticket allotment, BJP workers from Ghazipur allegedly sprinkled kerosene to set themselves afire but were stopped by people.

Lucknow: On a day BJP released its manifesto for the Assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh, dissent over ticket distribution manifested into protests with two party workers from Ghazipur district allegedly attempting self-immolation at the party office in Lucknow.

Unhappy over ticket allotment, BJP workers from Ghazipur allegedly sprinkled kerosene to set themselves afire but were overpowered by people. While one of them was arrested, others managed to flee, a party leader said.

The workers were not happy with ticket distribution and had come to the party headquarters to express their displeasure over it on the day when the BJP national president was in town, he said.

Another group of BJP workers reportedly protested against Shah on his arrival in Lucknow earlier in the day.

BJP state unit chief Keshav Prasad Maurya also faced opposition from the cadres in Varanasi for denying tickets to party veterans.

The party cadres are reportedly unhappy over party hoppers being given importance in ticket distribution over loyal workers.

When questioned on the issue, Shah played down the protests saying the fight over tickets only proved that 'acche din' are round the corner.

"You don't appear to have run a political party, when there is a fight over tickets it should be taken that acche din are round the corner ... where there is no fight it should be taken as a signal of defeat," he said.

"The problem is that of our party and it should be left to us ... do we tell you what all you have to write," he told newspersons when asked to comment on it after releasing the manifesto.
Amit Shah said if their government comes into power, they would ban all illegal slaughter houses.

BJP President Amit Shah with UP BJP chief Keshav Prasad Maurya releasing party manifesto for the upcoming Uttar Pradesh assembly elections in Lucknow. (Photo: PTI)

Lucknow: BJP President Amit Shah today released the party's manifesto for Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections promising to make efforts to ensure construction of Ram temple under constitutional provisions if voted to power.

The manifesto, called 'Lok Kalyan Sankalp Patra' (Pledge for People's Welfare), also promises to press for taking forward its view on the triple talaq in the Supreme Court. "The party is firm on the Ram temple issue...efforts will be made to ensure that Ram temple is constructed under the constitutional provisions," Shah said.

On the contentious issue of triple talaq, Shah said the party, on coming to power, will take views of women and present its opinion before the Supreme Court.

On exodus of people due to communal tension, he said a special team would be formed to check it at district level. DMs will be held responsible for mass exodus, he said.

Shah also said all mechanised slaughter houses will be closed in the state.

Also read: Highlights of BJP manifesto for Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls

Taking a cue from ruling Samajwadi Party, Shah promised to upgrade the Dial 100 of the state police to ensure police help in 15 minutes all over the state.

Stressing that if voted to power, his party will take one step ahead of the Samajwadi Party's laptop distribution scheme by providing 1 GB free data for one year besides free wi-fi in universities.

To ensure the safety of college girls, innovative anti- Romeo squads will be set up near colleges to check eve-teasing. Besides, three women battalions will be raised for security of women, the document said.

While releasing manifesto, the BJP president said the party will form government in Uttar Pradesh with a two-thirds majority.

He attacked Samajwadi Party and Mayawati's Bahujan Samaj Party which have ruled Uttar Pradesh for the last 15 years, accusing them of doing nothing to develop the backward state.

BJP, he said, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, would turn UP into a developed state, the way it has developed the other states it rules. "All BIMARU - Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh - states have become developed except UP," he said.

BJP is going hammer and tongs to return to power in UP after 15 years.

In 2012, it had won only 47 of the state's 403 seats, but in the 2014 national election, it swept 71 of the state's 80 Lok Sabha seats and hopes to repeat that performance in this year's assembly election.

Elections in Uttar Pradesh will be held in seven phases from February 11 to March 8.

Accusing the Akhilesh Yadav government of not doing anything for the upliftment of the state, he said the Centre sanctioned Rs one lakh crore to Uttar Pradesh but no development has been seen on ground.

Besides, law and order is at its nadir, he claimed, adding that Akhilesh will have to answer for the problems faced by the state where "ruling party goondas have grabbed land".

He said people will not be hoodwinked by merely entering into an alliance with Congress to win the polls. "UP has been plundered by SP-BSP for 15 years and we have come with a pledge to transform the state," he said.

Before unveiling the document, Shah said, "We have tried to take views and aspirations of a cross section of people and in the process contacted people through different means (before drafting the manifesto)."

The document focuses on farmers' welfare, he said, adding agricultural loans will be waived once BJP comes to power.

He also said a Special Task Force to be set up to put an end to illegal mining in the state.

Shah said on lines of central government's decision, no interview will be held for Class III and IV UP government jobs to end corruption in recruitment if BJP comes to power.

The manifesto promised free education up to Class 12 and waiver of fees up to graduation level to meritorious students. Shah said food processing parks would be set up in UP and power would be supplied round the clock in the state with cheaper rates for the poor. "We will provide laptops to all students without any discrimination," he said.

Shah also said special focus would be given to Bundelkhand for its all round development.

He expressed hope that UP would get the strongest government since Independence when BJP gets over 300 (of the 403) seats.

Since the past 15 years it has been SP-BSP governments in the state and in this period several states which were behind Uttar Pradesh have improved but UP was still lagging behind, he claimed.

Other states like Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh have been pulled out of the Bimaru states list after BJP got a chance, he said. "I want to assure people here that given a chance BJP will pull it out of the list in five years," he said.

"After 30 years, it is for the first time any party has got absolute majority at the Centre and I want to thank the people of UP for it...BJP workers have been blessed by the people and now want to do something for the state, he said.

"Till we do not have a government in Lucknow not much can be done about issues concerning everyday life like law and order, power, health among others.

"Every year our government has given Rs one lakh crore more than UPA government and I want to ask Akihlesh ji where has it gone, why the situation has not imporved here...he will have to give a reply, merely (entering into an alliance) will not hoodwink the people," he said.

"UP's law and order is worst in the country, in villages ruling party goondas have grabbed land...women are not safe, mining and road mafia are active in the state," he said. On the issue of exodus FIRs are not filed in police stations.

"After note ban, these elections are being held and we have faith that the kind of war BJP and PM have launched against black money, UP will show us the results," he said.

"We have not indulged in politics of caste, religion or family, and politics of performance is going to start in the state," he said.
Joint press meet likely on Sunday to send strong message of unity after SP-Congress pact.

New Delhi: In a bid to further cement the electoral alliance with the Samajwadi Party ahead of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls, Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi is expected to hold a joint press conference with chief minister Akhilesh Yadav shortly.

Senior leaders from both sides are of the view that the coming together of the two leaders on the same stage would send out a strong and correct political message to cadre across the state, especially after initial talks of an electoral pact between the two parties had hit a roadblock.

The press conference is being planned for January 29. Mr Gandhi is campaigning in Punjab, which is also headed for Assembly elections. But he will take time out of Punjab to address the press conference. He will head to Lucknow on Sunday. Apart from the press conference, he is also expected to organise a road show in Lucknow.

The two leaders are also scheduled to address 14 rallies across UP, which is headed for a seven-phase polling starting February 11. According to the plan chalked out so far, there will be two joint rallies before every phase of election in the state. The two sides are also in the process of making a series of slogans, which will be launched shortly. The first one is: UP ko yeh saath pasand hai (UP likes this combination).

Another under consideration is: Apne ladke vs Bahari Modi. This will cash in on the fact that BJP has not projected any local face as its chief ministerial candidate yet. Planning on campaign strategies is also on in full swing. After the alliance pact both the parties have gone back to the drawing boards. But there are still some difference on Assembly seats in parliamentary constituencies of Amethi and Rae Bareli, which have been the traditional strongholds of the Gandhi family.

Both these places have five Assembly segments each. Out of the total 10 the SP has seven members of legislative Assembly, of which two are ministers in the Akhilesh Yadav government. People familiar with the matter say that Priyanka Gandhi, who was a backroom player in getting this alliance sealed, has sent word to Akhilesh Yadav that the Congress would like to contest on all 10 seats.

The logic being given is that since the Congress is not contesting in the family bastions of the Yadav family such as Mainpuri, Etawah and Azamgarh, the SP should also return the favour. At the moment an eerie silence prevails. The matter will be sorted out once the nomination dates come closer, a person with direct knowledge of the matter said.

Before the alliance, the SP announced five candidates on these 10 constituencies. It has not taken back these names as polling in Amethi is in the fifth phase, while in Rae Bareli it is in the fourth phase. Campaigning for the first phase of the UP elections will end February 9.
The poll code came into force on January 4 and will last till the polls are over.

New Delhi: The Election Commission on Saturday gave its go ahead to Prime Minister Narendra Modis monthly Mann Ki Baat radio address despite the Mode Code of Conduct being in place, but slammed some government departments like the ministries of finance and defence and the Niti Ayog for failing to seek its permission before holding similar decisions, which can affect the level-playing field during Assembly polls in five states.

Specifically mentioning the finance ministry, Niti Aayog and defence ministry, the EC said they failed to refer important matters to it, despite the poll code being in effect. The poll code came into force on January 4 and will last till the polls are over.

The Election Commission has noted that in certain cases, the ministries/departments took decisions, which have the effect of disturbing level-playing field of poll-bound states, without referring the matter to the Commission, particularly by Niti Aayog, ministry of defence and ministry of finance, the poll body said in a letter to Cabinet secretary P.K. Sinha.

The reason behind the strongly worded letter seemed to be the finance ministrys decision to fix the Budget date without seeking its clearance when it was clear that as per the new date, the Union budget will be presented when the election process in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Manipur, Punjab and Goa will be on.

On January 20, the poll panel had pulled up the Niti Aayog for holding special Gram Sabhas in the five poll-bound states without seeking its permission. It had also given permission to the defence ministry to hold Combined Commanders Conference in Uttarakhand with the rider that the PM, who inaugurated it, would not combine the event with an election rally in the poll-bound state.

The Mann Ki Baat show got the EC approval after the government approached it seeking its permission to continue to hold the show during the poll time. Pertinent that this time, the focus of Mann ki baat will be the Class 10 and 12 board exams, which will commence from March 9.
Rahul also hit out at Mr Kejriwal saying that he failed in fulfilling any of his promises in Delhi.

Chandigarh: Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday described deputy chief minister Sukhbir Badal as king of corruption. While addressing a politicalrally Chandigarh, Mr Rahul also warned the people of Punjab against thefalse promises of Arvind Kejriwal, saying Captain Amarinder Singh alone could resolve the problems plaguing the state and bring it back on the path of progress.

Taking a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal for making all kinds of false promises to the people of the country and Delhi, respectively, Rahul said the Congress did not believe in making such fake promises but was committed to delivering on all its promises.

Referring to Mr Modis promises of putting Rs 15 lakhs in every poor persons account and fighting corruption through demonetisation, Mr Rahul said anyone can make such false promises but Punjab needed development, not tall claims. He also hit out at Mr Kejriwal saying that he failed in fulfilling any of his promises in Delhi.

Mr Rahul lashed out at Mr Modi for sharing the dais with Indias mostcorrupt man (Sukhbir Badal) after claiming to be fighting against corruption, and said neither the Prime Minister nor the Delhi chief minister could be trusted to look after the concerns of Punjabis.

Lashing out at Mr Kejriwal, Mr Rahul said he was eyeing Punjabs chief ministership as he wanted to run away from Delhi, where he had been exposed.

Pointing out that Punjab gives strength to India and the ethos of Punjabiyat is known the world over, Rahul said the Badals had left no stone unturned to ruin that ethos. The Congress workers, over the past one decade, had been fighting the tyranny of the Badals, he said.
Triple talaq, cow slaughter also on agenda.

BJP President Amit Shah with UP BJP chief Keshav Prasad Maurya releasing party manifesto for the upcoming Uttar Pradesh assembly elections in Lucknow. (Photo: PTI)

Lucknow: While packing in a raft of sops in its UP election manifesto, the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) looked to return to a Hindutva agenda as it promised to push for Ram temple in Ayodhya, and take up other contentious issues of triple talaq and cow slaughter. The party also said it would stop forced Hindu migration from UPs riot-hit pockets if voted to power.

The announcements, which mark a departure from the BJPs current narrative of development, come after the Congress and the ruling Samajwadi Party (SP)  both backed by a sizeable section of Muslim voters  recently joined hands ahead of UPs seven-phase Assembly elections starting February 11.

BJP chief Amit Shah, while releasing the 24-page document called Lok Kalyan Samarpan Patra on Saturday, also looked to better many giveaways from the SPs manifesto released earlier this month.

Looking to form government in UP after 15 years, the BJP promised laptops but without caste discrimination and with a monthly 1 GB free Internet, free Wi-Fi on campuses, expansion of Metro services, increased air connectivity and Rs 150 crore for dairy units.

The party also promised 24-hour power supply, 70,000 jobs for the youth, free education to both girls and boys with riders, better dial 100 services and schemes for farmers and landless labourers. All these issues were part of the SP manifesto.

Despite that the BJPs manifesto drew sharp criticism from political opponents, with the BSP terming it another attempt to hoodwink voters, while the Congress and the SP called it a bundle of lies.

After failing to fulfil the achche din promise made during the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP has no moral right to bring out this manifesto, BSP chief Mayawati said.

To woo students, Mr Shah promised free education up to graduation for girls and up to class 12 for boys. However, if boys get above 50 per cent marks, they can also avail free education up to graduation, he said.

He promised loan waiver for small and marginal farmers and clearance of sugarcane dues within 120 days.

He also said that a welfare card will be issued to the poor who will be entitled to `6 lakh as home loan.

On the temple promise, Mr Shah said that if the BJP came to power in UP, it would use constitutional means to resolve the issue and pave the way for its construction. He did not explain how a state government would facilitate the construction of Ram temple as the matter is pending in the Supreme Court.

Mr Shah said that the issue of triple talaq was also in the apex court, but if the BJP came to power, its government would push for a ban on the practice.

He said that district magistrates and police chiefs in districts would be responsible for Hindu migration due to communal tension. A special task force would be set up to check migration, he said.

The BJP also promised to fill 1.5 lakh vacancies in the police force. Mr Shah said 40,000 prisoners who had jumped parole would be arrested. He said that women police stations and an anti-Romeo squad would be set up. Three women battalions would also be raised.

He also promised a special task force to check illegal mining.

Key points in manifesto
BJP raises the contentious Ram Mandir, while SP, BSP fight for Muslim votes.

The BJP, while focussing on the non-Yadav and non-Jatav vote banks, along with 21 per cent of the upper caste, is hoping for the Muslim votes to split between SP and BSP.

New Delhi: Trying to consolidate its core Hindutva vote bank along with the upper caste-Brahmins and Rajputs by reverting to the contentious Ram Mandir issue, the BJP has also been targeting the non-Yadav OBCs for the forthcoming Assembly polls in Uttar Pradesh.

Meanwhile, a tug of war is raging between the BSP and SP over the 20 per cent Muslim vote bank in the state. Ms Mayawati is trying to dent SP's Muslim-Yadav combination with her Dalit-Muslim blend.

With the Jatavs generally sticking to the BSP and Yadavs to the SP, the BJP is mainly targeting the non-Jatavs OBCs and MBCs (Most Backward Caste), which include Koeri, Maurya, Kushwaha, Shakya, Saini surnames, Kashyap, Prajapati Kurmi, Lodh, Nishad, Rajbhars, Baghels and Jats. Making its intention clear, the Modi government had announced that majority of these communities or sub-castes will be included in the SC category.

It is estimated that OBCs are nearly 44 per cent of UP's electorate, dalits 21 per cent, Muslims 19 per cent, and upper castes 16 per cent. Yadavs, the dominant among the OBCs is the core of the SP vote bank.

It's the SP and BSP, which are now engaged in a battle for the Muslims. The BSP has fielded 97 Muslim candidates while the SP-Congress alliance has 62 Muslim faces for the first three phases. Numbers are bound to go up for the SP-Congress for the remaining five phases.

After the SP, led by Akhilesh Yadav, refused to include the Quami Ekta Dal (QED), Ms Mayawati has pounced on the outfit. The merger of the gangster-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari's QED into the BSP is all set to intensify the fight to capture the minority vote bank.

Of the 403 Assembly berths, Muslims play a dominant role in over 140 seats. If Ms Mayawati's calculations work and majority of the 20.5 per cent dalits and 20 per cent Muslim tilt towards her, she could return to power in the state.

The BJP, while focussing on the non-Yadav and non-Jatav vote banks, along with 21 per cent of the upper caste, is hoping for the Muslim votes to split between SP and BSP. But the problem for the party could be the Congress move to latch on to the Akhilesh bandwagon. Some of the BJP leaders apprehended that the SP-Congress alliance could also cut into the saffronites upper caste vote bank. During 2012 UP Assembly polls, while SP won 224 seats with a vote share of 29.3 per cent, Congress had bagged 28 seats with an 11.7 percent vote share. If the percentages are not disturbed, the alliance could sweep the polls with 40 per cent of the vote share.
The song will be blaring across the state to lure the electorates, say party workers.

New Delhi: The Young Turks, Akhilesh Yadav and Rahul Gandhi, seem to have developed a great bonhomie after their parties finalised an alliance for the upcoming Assembly polls in UP.

To make their presence felt among the masses, they have now penned an anthem song, UP ko yeh saath pasand hain, Cycle aur yeh haath pasand hain, tarraqi ki yeh baat pasand hain, on the lines of popular Bollywood song from the movie Sultan, Baby ko bass pasand hain. The song will be blaring across the state to lure the electorates, say party workers.

Besides, posters showing Apne ladke versus Bahari Modi (Our boys vs outsider Modi), in which Akhilesh and Rahul are standing together, while a grinning Modi, clad in a traditional Gujarati attire, is standing below them.

On Sunday, both the leaders will kick-start their campaign by holding a roadshow in Lucknow. Mr Gandhi and Mr Yadav are expected to address a total of 14 rallies with two rallies in each phase. Though Priyanka Gandhi is in the star list of campaigners, it is still undecided whether she will campaign outside Amethi and Raebareli.

Meanwhile, confusion persists in the alliance over distribution of seats in both Amethi and Raebareli. While Congress leader Sanjay Singh said the Congress will contest all the 10 seats in Amethi and Raebareli, there is no official confirmation so far.

Sources said that Priyanka Gandhi has sent a message to Mr Yadav asking him to give all 10 seats as Congress is not contesting Yadav stongholds in Etawah, Mainpuri and Azamgarh.
Eye-catching light arrangements by Guy Hoare juxtaposed with Seetas gracious moves & striking expressions created beautiful visual drama.

Bharatanatyam exponent Seeta Patel recently enthralled the audience in Delhi with her performance Something Then Something Now. Eye-catching light arrangements by Guy Hoare juxtaposed with Seetas gracious moves and striking expressions created beautiful visual drama.

Born and brought up in the UK, Seeta made her India debut with this performance. Held at Sri Ram Centre, the performance was presented by the India Heritage Desk.

I visit India every year, to watch classical dance and music performances. But I was very excited to give a performance here because the audience is familiar with the dance form, says Seeta.

The act, composed by Seeta, tells a divine story of love and separation. The performance focuses on the relationship between three characters: the youthful heroine (nayika), the god Krishna, and her friend (sakhi) who will bring Krishna to her.

The varnaam (central piece) has been one of the most elaborate and intricate works I have done. My teacher Mavin Khoo and I have worked together on this, says Seeta.

While she enjoys performing to Indian audiences, Seeta feels that classical music is more established here than classical dance and has a better audience.

There are certain trends that I have noticed here and I feel it is challenging for performers to engage the audience and keep their excitement up till the end of the performance. For classical dancers, the struggle is much more than classical musicians.

Elaborating on her journey, she adds, One wants to be a better dancer and learn more in life to be successful. But at the same, one also has to work on trying to engage the audience with the dance form to gain more prominence.

In the UK, when people think of Indian classical dance, they put everything under one banner and dont usually relate it with other contemporary dance forms. If you go presenting a classical dance performance, you are bound to disappoint the audience. So I try explaining my act like classical literature. It does take time to make people relate to it but people have definitely engaged better with Bharatanatyam now as compared to when I started, says Seeta.

Speaking of her experience in India, the 36-year-old feels that there is a financial burden that performers face here, and this is more for the inexperienced artistes. I have been wanting to perform in India for a few years. But it was only after I could afford the musicians and got invited by a former colleague that I could perform here. Also, it depends on how much one has performed and been seen, says Seeta.

But getting a chance to perform in India has not been Seetas only struggle. Managing to have an audience for Bharatanatyam in the UK has been the biggest challenge for the danseuse. In the UK, one has to provide the audience with enough information about the act so that they enjoy the performance. So it has been a long journey and a long process to cultivate an audience for Bharatanatyam, says Seeta, who now looks forward to her second performance in Chennai.
The suit was worn by Michael Keaton in the 1992 movie about the popular DC superhero

Original parts of the Batsuit that were featured in the film include the cowl, cape and body. (Photo: Youtube)

Los Angeles, Jan 28 (PTI) The Batsuit worn by Michael Keaton in 1992 superhero film "Batman Returns" sold at auction for USD 41,250.

According to the Nate D Sanders Auction website, the costume is displayed on a mannequin with the chiseled likeness of Keaton. It stands at approximately 6-foot-5 and is displayed on a 2-inch gray and white mounted base with Batman Returns titled on the front center.

Original parts of the Batsuit that were featured in the film include the cowl, cape and body. "Batman Returns" reached audiences on June 19, 1992. It earned USD 45.69 million across 2,644 theaters during its first weekend - the highest-grossing opening weekend of any film up to that point in time.
The Mumbai Gay Pride or the Queer Azaadi March (QAM) is one of the biggest pride parades in the country.

Arun Kumar* loves wearing gold. You could see the gold bling from across the field. Dressed in a dark green kurta with nails painted light green, Arun says he feels complete at the Queer Azaadi March this year. It is the first time Im cross dressing. I always wanted to try to dress this way, but I was too scared to even try back home, he says. Coming from Bengaluru, this is the first time he is attending the Mumbai Pride Walk. Consciously adjusting the press nose ring he wears, he complains about what a bad a job he has done with his dressing. His foundation, compact and a matching bright green eye shadow prove otherwise.

The Mumbai Gay Pride or the Queer Azaadi March (QAM) is one of the biggest pride parades in the country. Ever since the march first started out nine years ago, it has not only become a symbol of protest, but has also gone on to be a celebration of the queer communitys identity. Sporting elaborate  and fabulous  costumes, raising important and quirky slogans, the pride reflects the strength of the queer community.

Roshni, a proud transgender woman tells us the joy she feels being at the walk. Today is the only day when we are legal in the country, she says, as she fans herself with an elegant purple hand fan. Elaborating on the struggle of the queer community, she continues, We are fighting a battle everyday, not just against the Supreme Court or against the part of society that doesnt support us, but also with ourselves. There are so many transgender women I know, who are in the closet and are struggling everyday. For Roshni, realising she was transgender was no surprise; she always felt like a woman, Like a little girl who loves to wear frocks and frills! she laughs.

Amidst all the loud chanting and the colourful slogans, one group of middle-aged women dressed in all white with orange coloured phetas (turbans) stands out. We are mums standing here for equality! shouts one of them. They call themselves The Jam Network (with origins on WhatsApp Messenger) and profess equality across all genders and sexualities. Everyone deserves to give and receive love, they chant. The coloured phetas represent masculinity and the nathani (nose rings) represent feminity, they say. When posing for pictures, half of them strike a deliberately feminine pose and the others flex their muscles in a manly pose.

Dr Sam is a very busy man today. He is walking around briskly handing out condoms packed in bright red packets as he shouts, Make love safely. Explaining that hes part of an awareness group, he says, Were here all the way from New Delhi to spread the message of love and protection. As he rushes off as if to fulfil his duty, a quiet, small man stops him, quickly takes six packets, and shoves them down his pocket, as he looks around, smiling.

Tabassum* promptly asks if she can use a pseudonym instead; she doesnt want to be out there. But what she is proudly doing at the walk is walking hand in hand with her son, as he shouts loudly in support. His name is Anwar and he completely supports my decision, she smiles.

Nissar is a dumb and deaf transgender man who is present at the walk for the very first time. He stands tall in a bright red glittery dress and nods enthusiastically when asked how he is doing that day. He works for Humsafar, an NGO that promotes LGBTQ rights, and, as his friend tells us while admiring him, Hes always dressed to the point  looking like a queen!

Even as the pride walk is filled with people conscious of their true identities, who try to hide their names and faces, a proud transgender explains, Its more important that we came out to ourselves, that we know our own truth.

*names changed to protect identities
A medical examination of the accused driver confirmed that he was drunk at the time of the accident, police said.

New Delhi: A 23-year-old man driving a Range Rover in an inebriated condition was today arrested after he allegedly rammed into a taxi in north Delhi's Majnu Ka Tila area even as the cab driver had a narrow escape, police said today.



The incident, almost a re-run of a recent episode in south Delhi in which a BMW rammed into a cab leaving its driver dead, occurred in the wee hours, police said.



The impact of the Range Rover ramming into the taxi was such that the cab driver, Ashok Kumar (53), lost consciousness for 10 minutes. The rear portion of the taxi, a Maruti Ritz, was completely damaged, however, the driver did not suffer any injuries, police said.



The accused driver, Sandeep Kumar, was arrested from the spot but was later released on bail since the sections under which he was charged are bailable, they added.



A medical examination of the accused driver confirmed that he was drunk at the time of the accident, police said.



Kumar was going towards ISBT when around 1.15 AM when the Range Rover rammed into his vehicle from behind.
Taxi-hailing apps like Uber and radio taxi service providers such as Meru are locked in a stiff competition across the country.

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Friday ordered status quo on the probe against Uber by Competition Commission of India on alleged unfair trade practices adopted by the firm in fixing surging/discounted fare.

A bench of Justices Dipak Misra and D.Y. Chandrachud issued notice to Meru Cabs and CCI and posted the matter for further hearing on February 17. The status quo was ordered during the hearing of an appeal filed by Uber against the Competition Appellate Tribunal (Compat) ordering a probe by the CCI on the alleged abuse of dominance by Uber. Senior counsel Harish Salve, appearing for Uber, argued that the tribunal had no power to order a probe by the CCI. He said any probe against the company will have serious global repercussions. He prayed for an interim stay of the order directing a probe. On behalf of Meru Cabs, stay was opposed but the court directed status quo to be maintained.

Taxi-hailing apps like Uber and radio taxi service providers such as Meru are locked in a stiff competition across the country. Earlier, there have been allegations and counter-allegations by the two sides.

The tribunal ordered a probe on the basis of the complaint that Uber allegedly resorted to many abusive practices with the sole intent to establish its monopoly and eliminate otherwise equally efficient competitors from the market by way of discounts and incentives.

It was alleged that Uber is spending about $885 million to generate a revenue of $415 million. The CCI in February last had rejected the complaint but on appeal, the tribunal directed the CCI to conduct a probe. The appeal is directed against this order.
The police also recovered 42 passports and forged stamp of Kuwait Embassy from their possession.

The team found that Mr Qumesh and Mr Junid were running a fake visa company for the last 10 years. (Representational image)

New Delhi: The East Delhi police arrested two persons who had been running a fake visa company for the last ten years in the Capital.

The police also recovered 42 passports and forged stamp of Kuwait Embassy from their possession.

The accused, identified as Junid Ahmed and Md. Qumesh Ahmed, were running the operations from an office in Shakarpur. They had duped people by not only promising them visas to Gulf countries, but also offered them jobs.

The accused are residents of Uttar Pradesh. According to police, the matter came to light after a complaint was filed on January 24 at Shakarpur police station.

The police said that one Md. Nasruddin, a resident of Ghaziabad narrated how he was duped by Mr Qumesh and Mr Junid.

In his complaint, Mr Nasruddin told the police that last September he got to know about a company with the name Alfa Enterprises at Vikas Marg in Shakarpur in Delhi.

The complainant later told the police that the company promised him visa to Gulf countries and also offered jobs. Mr Nasruddin and his friends visited the office and met with Mr Qumesh, the owner of the company.

A team was constituted and it gathered inputs against the bogus company. The team found that Mr Qumesh and Mr Junid were running a fake visa company for the last 10 years.
Out of 227 corporators in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), there are 21 Muslim councillors.

Mumbai: Buoyed by success in 2014 State Assembly polls where it managed to win two seats, All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen's efforts to make strong inroads in the upcoming BMC polls has further widened the possibility of division of Muslim votes, say political experts.

Former chief of Mumbai Congress' minority cell, Nizamuddin Rayeen, who recently quit the party alleging biases, said, "Muslim leaders are themselves divided and very insecure. Therefore, expecting them to do something positive for the community would be like cheating our own selves."

"A Muslim leader can be either a corporator, MP or an MLA but he can never become leader of the masses," he said.

Out of 227 corporators in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), there are 21 Muslim councillors with 10 belonging to Congress, five to Samajwadi Party, two are with NCP, three independent, while one with others.

Notably, there are no Muslim corporators in ruling parties BJP and Shiv Sena.

Senior journalist Imtiyaz Manzoor Ahmed said the February's election is going to be ambiguous for the voters.

"Muslim voters were already divided between Congress and Samajwadi Party and to make things more complicated, one more party (referring to Hyderabad-based AIMIM) has entered. Voters have become more confused and this is going to led to further division of votes resulting in less representation of leaders in the state politics," Ahmed said.

"Voices of people from the community will go unheard and their sorry state is only going to worsen," he lamented.

As per 2011 Census, Muslims account for 20 per cent population in the city.

Noted Islamic scholar Zeenat Shaukat Ali said that entry of the new party in the run for BMC elections in going to further confuse voters.

"Entry of one more party is certainly going to put voters in a fix, though, the intention might be to put forth an alternative for them," she said.

"Muslims are already facing hardships like lack of quality education, unemployment, beside facing discrimination in getting jobs or a house," she said.
The letter of a desk officer that banned religious pictures and slogans in government offices has created a furore in Maharashtra politics.

Mumbai: In opposing a recent government circular banning religious pictures in its offices, the Shiv Sena sought to re-assert its Hindutva-based politics in the run-up to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) polls while also aiming to score a brownie point against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), said sources. The letter of a desk officer that banned religious pictures and slogans in government offices has created a furore in Maharashtra politics. Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray slammed the BJP in his rally on Thursday while his ministers met the chief minister at his residence Varshathe following morning, which resulted in the CM withdrawing the letter.

The desk officer of the rural development department had given written directives to his departmental colleagues disallowing religious pictures and slogans in government offices. This letter dated on 4 January 2017, gave an opportunity to the Shiv Sena, a party that claimed to stand for Hindu rights. Mr Thackeray asked BJP in the rally whether it is government of the BJP, a party that espouses the Hindutva cause, or Owaisi (the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen leader)? Significantly, Mr Thackeray broke the pre-poll alliance with the BJP in same rally.
'The response to the show has been quite encouraging,' an Information Officer of Kerala Government said.

Mumbai: The cultural and trade fair of Kerala, which began earlier this month at CIDCO Urban Haat at Belapur in Navi Mumbai, will conclude tomorrow with a stage show on 60 years of the state, after luring a large number of visitors to the event which showcased the best of the state's art, craft,culture and cuisine.

"The response to the show has been quite encouraging. Not only Malayalis but people belonging to all parts of the country residing in the megapolis turned up in the last nine days", an Information Officer of Kerala Government said.

The show, organised by state Information and Public Relations Department with the support of Mumbai Malayali associations, was inaugurated by Kerala Labour and Excise Minister T P Ramakrishnan on Janurary 20.

A wide range of artifacts and souvenirs like replicas of Kathakali mask, snake boat (chundan vallam), off-white handloom textiles, traditional delicacies and fritters were on sale at the fair.

Apart from food stalls of women selfhelp network "Kudumbashree", the exhibition also had outlets selling spices, coconut-based sweets and coir products.

The book stalls set up by some leading publishers from Kerala also received good response from the visitors, the organisers said.

Apart from stage programmes, performed by troupes from Kerala as well as members of Malayali associations, competitions for school children in writing and drawing were also held.

This is the second edition of the event held in the Mumbai suburb, seeking to give hands on feeling of the rich culture and traditions of Kerala to all sections of people in the metro and its adjoining areas.
The deceased had won a silver medal in the 1m springboard at the 70th National Aquatics held in September 2016.

Mumbai: A 23-year-old National level swimmer, Tanuka Dhara, residing in the city allegedly committed suicide on Thursday afternoon. The deceased had won a silver medal in the 1m springboard at the 70th National Aquatics held in September 2016.

Dhara who hails from Kolkata was employed as a junior level clerk in Western Railway. She stayed in a rented apartment in poonawala chawl in lower Parel area of the city. Sources revealed that Dhara had returned to the city on Tuesday from visiting her parents in Kolkata. "she last spoke to her mother on Wednesday at 9 pm. When she did not answer her calls after that, the parents informed her colleague who visited her and found the body," said an officer. He added that she had recently booked a flat for Rs 26 lakh back home.

According to NM Joshi Marg Police station, Dhara was found dead by her friends and neighbours.
BJP leader Kirit Somaiya had recently said he would come out with a "black paper" on graft and malpractices in the civic body.

Mumbai: Virtually pinning the blame of the alleged "scams" in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Coporation (BMC) on Devendra Fadnavis, the Shiv Sena on Saturday alleged that it was the Chief Minister who was responsible for approving proposals in his capacity as the state Urban Development Minister.

"The chief of a municipal corporation is the municipal commissioner who is appointed by the chief minister. Whenever proposals are approved by the standing committee of the BMC, it goes to the municipal commissioner and the Urban Development Department for final approvals. The UDD is headed by the chief minister," Sena MP Rahul Shewale told reporters in Mumbai.

"Throughout the process, the chief minister is involved. He should thus, clarify who is responsible for corruption," Shewale, a former chairman of the BMC's standing committee, added.

BJP leaders, including Kirit Somaiya and Ashish Shelar, have repeatedly been chiding the Sena, alleging corruption in the BMC, which is controlled by Uddhav Thackeray's party.

Somaiya had recently said he would come out with a "black paper" on graft and malpractices in the civic body.

Shewale claimed that the "maximum" number of proceedings initiated by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) were against BJP corporators, adding that there was "maximum corruption in 30 departments" of the state government which were with the BJP.

"There is no transparency in the (functioning of the) Home department under the chief minister. They should thus, learn the meaning of corruption before leveling allegations," he said.

Responding to Somaiya's allegations of "mafia raj" in the BMC, Shewale said the Sena was ready to disclose the names of the "mafias" and sought to know if Fadnavis will take action against them.

"If you have the courage, take action. When Somaiya is alleging a road scam in the BMC, does he not know that a chargesheet has been filed against all the contractors responsible and that the BMC has not even disbursed money to those who are responsible?" the Sena MP asked.

He also alleged that those who have been accused in the "garbage scam", had "sponsored BJP programmes" in the city.
The major focus of Fadnavis speech was on corruption allegations in BMC for the last 25 years.

Mumbai: Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis lambasted Shiv Sena on Saturday, accusing it of committing extortion. In one hand you take the saffron flag of Shivaji Maharaj but extort money by another hand. But you will not be able to continue this hereafter, said Mr Fadnavis at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)s Vijay Sankalp Melava, held at NSE ground, Goregaon east.

Mr Fadnavis also slammed Sena over transparency. We were ready to take a few seats less, but not compromise on issue of transparency. Senas proposal of 60 seats was a clear indication that they were not ready to come clean on the issue. Shiv Sena had something to hide and thats why they broke the alliance, alleged Mr Fadnavis.

After Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray announced his decision of contesting the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections independently, political observers were watching Saturdays BJP rally keenly. Mr Fadnavis showered a rain of promises on Mumbaikars, understanding the political importance of his speech. The CM tried to address every issue important for the development of Mumbai, such as integrated transportation system in MMR area, rehabilitation of slum dwellers at the place where they are currently living, Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), etc.

However, the major focus of Mr Fadnavis speech was on corruption allegations in BMC for the last 25 years. Before Mr Fadnavis, Mumbai BJP chief Ashish Shelar said called Sena Kauravs and referred to BJP as Pandavas from Mahabharat. Mr Shelar said, Sena behaves like egoistic Duryodhan of war time. As Duryodhan refused to give land to Pandava, Sena too was not ready to give us seats that we deserve.

Mr Shelar also alleged that, There could be an alliance between MNS and Sena. This is the reason behind Sena not accommodating the issues of Balasaheb Thackerey memorial and Shivaji memorial in its manifesto, because MNS has opposed both.

Mr Fadnavis also slammed Sena over transparency. We were ready to take a few seats less, but not compromise on issue of transparency. Senas proposal of 60 seats was a clear indication that they were not ready to come clean on the issue. Shiv Sena had something to hide and thats why they broke the alliance, alleged Mr Fadnavis in his speech in BJP block presidents rally at Goregaon, on Saturday.

After Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray announced his decision of contesting the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections independently, political observers were watching Saturdays BJP rally keenly. Mr Fadnavis showered a rain of promises on Mumbaikars, understanding the political importance of his speech. The CM tried to address every issue important for the development of Mumbai, such as integrated transportation system in MMR area, rehabilitation of slum dwellers at the place where they are currently living, Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), etc.

However, the major focus of Mr Fadnavis speech was on corruption allegations in BMC for the last 25 years. Rebutting Mr Thackereys claims that Sena got saturated with BJP in its 25-year alliance, he asked, an alliance which was sealed by Balasaheb (Thackerey) and Pramod Mahajan and Gopinath Munde cannot be saturated. If anyone really has got stuck here, then it is the common Mumbaikar. He has not got his due development for the last 20 years.

Mr Fadnavis also accused Sena of doing extortion. In one hand you take the saffron flag of Shivaji Maharaj but extort money by another hand. But you will not be able to continue this hereafter, said Mr Fadnavis. The CM also made public the details of an alliance discussion at the time of the 2014 Assembly elections. He alleged Sena was responsible for breaking an alliance that survived for 25 years. Mr Fadnavis also tried to reach out to minorities of the city. He said, Our Hindutva is not narrow-minded. It is of Shivaji Maharajs Hindutva where all are working for the welfare of people.

Before Mr Fadnavis, Mumbai BJP chief Ashish Shelar compared Sena with the arrogance of Duryodhan and the Kaurava army from Mahabharat. Mr Shelar said, Sena behaves like egoistic Duryodhan of war time. As Duryodhan refused to give land to Pandava, Sena too was not ready to give us seats that we deserve.

Mr Shelar also alleged that, There could be an alliance between MNS and Sena. This is the reason behind Sena not accommodating the issues of Balasaheb Thackerey memorial and Shivaji memorial in its manifesto, because MNS has opposed both.
Veteran RSS leader says that if Sena wants to leave, let them leave.

Mumbai: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) ideologue M. G. Vaidya dropped a bomb on Maharashtra politics after supporting the idea of an alliance between Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) in Maharashtra. His statement came after the junior party in the BJP-led government, Shiv Sena declared it would contest all upcoming elections independently.

After Sena chief Uddhav Thackerays announcement on January 26 declining alliance with the BJP in crucial Brihanmumbai Municipal Council (BMC) elections as well as all other civic bodies and Zilla Parishad elections, ministers from his party started saying that they are ready to resign from the state government anytime. However, Mr Vaidya seems to have an answer to this situation, which has raised questions on the stability of Devendra Fadnavis-led government. There is no wrong in going with the NCP to save the government. If Sena wants to leave, let them go, said Mr Vaidya in Nagpur.

Mr Vaidya is a veteran RSS leader and has been one of the important voices in the decision-making processes of the organisation. His statement on the BJP-NCP alliance is being seen in the same light. In 2014, just after BJP won the assembly elections, Sharad Pawar-led NCP had proposed support to BJP for stability in state. Since then, political observers indicate that NCP is willing to support BJP if Sena leaves the house. In an assembly of 288 members, BJP has 122 MLAs, Sena 63, Cong 42 and NCP 41.
Union minister of micro, small and medium enterprises Kalraj Mishra has reason to be unhappy with the present dispensation.

The various state and district units of the Congress have been organising protest marches and rallies against demonetisation after party vice-president Rahul Gandhi exhorted the rank and file to take up this issue on a war footing at the Jan Vedna Sammelan held in the capital earlier this month. However, the campaign appears to be petering out days after it was launched with great enthusiasm. The recent protest rally held in Bhopal is a case in point. To begin with, the march was poorly attended. Second, senior Congress leaders from Madhya Pradesh like Digvijay Singh, Kamal Nath and Jyotiraditya Scindia failed to show up for the protest even though this issue is of personal interest to Mr Gandhi. In fact, the absence of these state stalwarts did not go unnoticed. What was ostensibly a protest against the Narendra Modi government became an occasion for the Congress to display its much-vaunted factionalism. Conversation at the programme was centred around the missing trio with the usually-discreet former Congress minister Suresh Pachouri even taking a public dig at his colleagues. While Mr Singh was said to be busy with the Assembly polls in Goa, as he in charge of the state, nobody knew why the other two leaders failed to turn up. An embarrassed Mohan Prakash, Congress in charge of Madhya Pradesh, is said to have assured the state unit that this matter would be looked into.

When veteran Congress leader Narayan Dutt Tiwari was recently welcomed into the Bharatiya Janata Party by its president Amit Shah, it was widely speculated that the ageing leader had switched sides essentially to secure a ticket for his son Rohit Shekhar in the coming Uttarakhand Assembly polls. There was also a strong buzz that the BJP was willing to accommodate Mr Shekhar, despite the fact that he is a political novice, because the saffron unit felt it was worth the price for having acquired a respected brahmin face. As it happens, Mr Shekhars name does not figure in the BJPs list of candidates. A disappointed Mr Shekhar is now planning to approach Prime Minister Narendra Modi, failing which he plans to approach Uttar Pradesh chief minister Akhilesh Yadav for a Samajwadi Party ticket. While the partys decision to deny a ticket to outsider Mr Shekhar has been well received by the BJP workers, they are also wondering if it was necessary to import an ailing Mr Tiwari while the partys in-house brahmin  Sanjay Joshi  continues to be ignored. Former BJP national general secretary Mr Joshi had a bitter falling out with Mr Modi over two years ago and remains in the doghouse even though he has attempted to make peace with the Prime Minister by openly supporting his decision on demonetisation.

BJP MP Varun Gandhi is not known to hold back his punches but he appears to have been effectively silenced ever since his name figured in a case of a honey trap by known defence dealer Abhishek Verma and was accused of leaking defence secrets. Normally, the voluble Mr Gandhi would have been up in arms at not being included in the BJPs list of campaigners in next months Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls. Not just that, Mr Gandhi was not named as a candidate in Uttar Pradesh even though he was keen on contesting the coming Assembly poll since he fancies his chances as the future chief minister. He had made his ambition clear at the meeting of BJPs national executive last June when Allahabad was plastered with hoardings and posters declaring Mr Gandhi as the partys future face. But BJPs move to cut him to size has failed to elicit any reaction from Mr Gandhi, which is most unusual. Maybe, the young MP is biding his time before he strikes back.

Union minister of micro, small and medium enterprises Kalraj Mishra has reason to be unhappy with the present dispensation. Not only is he being denied a major role in next months Assembly polls in his home state Uttar Pradesh, he has limited functional autonomy in his ministry. For instance, Mr Mishra has little say over the working of the Khadi and Village Industries Commission even though it is under his ministry. This is primarily because KVIC chairman V.K. Saxena is known to be close to Prime Minister Narendra Modi who has given him a free hand in running the place. It is well known that it was the sycophantic Saxena who gave permission for the use of Mr Modis photographs in the commissions 2017 calendar and diary. According to the political grapevine, Mr Saxena is so powerful that when Mr Mishra asked him to look into a representation by some KVIC employees who felt they had been arbitrarily transferred, the KVIC chairman brought this to the notice of the Prime Ministers Office. Mr Mishra was apparently told to back off and asked not to interfere in the working of the KVIC.
The govt has given a more substantial one-year extension to foreign secretary S. Jaishankar, who was to retire on January 28.

The government has given a three-month extension to economic affairs secretary Shaktikanta Das, who will now retire in May this year.

Mr Das has been the public face of the government during demonetisation. He was to retire at the end of February and the extension will allow the 1980-batch Tamil Nadu cadre IAS officer to oversee the entire Budget process that lasts until early April. This is a routine Budget perk to officers on the cusp, at Budget time.

The government has given a more substantial one-year extension to foreign secretary S. Jaishankar, who was to retire on January 28. The extension to Mr Jaishankar will have a ripple effect in the ministry of external affairs. Many senior diplomats, including Indias ambassador to Italy Anil Wadhwa (1979-batch) and secretary (west) Sujata Mehta (1980-batch) will now retire without getting a shot at the top position. Though a little bird tells us, they know this pretty much.

According to sources, Indias ambassador to China, Vijay Gokhale, seen as one of the main contenders to replace Mr Jaishankar, is due to retire in the end of January 2019. And with Mr Jaishankar getting a one-year term, it leaves Mr Gokhale in the race for the top diplomatic position in the MEA.

Babus have their way in Mumbai

Some months ago this column had reported that the Bombay Gymkhanas managing committee was under tremendous pressure from babus who wanted membership of the prestigious 140-year-old club, against the wishes of majority of the members. But it seems the babus have won. As Dilli ka Babu had expected, need we add? The club has agreed to give permanent membership to senior bureaucrats in Mumbai.

Sources say that the management may have caved in following a series of actions and threats by various government departments, the latest being denial of a liquor licence for the clubs New Years Eve party.

The club has been battling a controversial proposal to allow service members, or bureaucrats, to use the clubs facilities even after they retire from their public posts. Some senior officials have allegedly been pushing for this and using their offices to hinder the clubs functioning. The club has been afflicted with delays in repair permissions and an overhanging threat that their lease  the land belongs to the state government  will not be renewed. Recently, its parking facilities were taken away. It seems to have worked.

Transfer draws ire in mP

The abrupt transfer of a senior police officer, who was investigating cases related to a hawala scam in Madhya Pradesh, has set off unprecedented public protests against the decision of the state government.

Sources say that Gaurav Tiwari, superintendent of police in Katni town, was just six months into his tenure when the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government transferred him to Chhindwara.

The government had clearly not expected the widespread condemnation of its decision. Protesters shut down the town for two days following the transfer order. Citizens came onto the streets to demand the revocation of the order, people have posted messages of solidarity on the officers Facebook wall, and government employees in the district have threatened to go on strike from February 3.

However, despite the protests and criticism, Mr Chouhan has refused to withdraw what he termed a routine administrative order. But sources say that the party leadership in Delhi has taken note of the development and sought a report from the CM on the circumstances leading to Mr Tiwaris transfer.
A Muslim NGO has revealed that around 700 women are abducted, raped and forced into Islamic marriages every year.

A Muslim NGO has revealed that around 700 women are abducted, raped and forced into Islamic marriages every year. (Photo: AFP/Representational)

New York: A Muslim NGO called Movement for Solidarity and Peace has revealed that around 700 women are abducted, raped and forced into Islamic marriages every year.

In the most recently reported incident, three Christian girls in Pakistan, who rejected the advances of some wealthy Muslim young men, were mauled by them. One of the girls died.

Chairman of the British Pakistani Christian Association (BPCA) and human rights activist, Wilson Chowdhry, reported that the incident occurred on January 13 in Lahore. The three girls-aged 17, 18, and 20-were walking home. Four Muslim youths in a vehicle followed the girls and accosted them.

After the girls refused their advances and started to run in a fit of panic, the men rammed the car into them.

Two girls fell to the ground: one's hip was broken, the other's ribs were shattered. The youngest, Kiran Masih, aged 17, flew up in the air and crashed into the speeding car's windshield.

While hurling abuses, one of the men had said: "Christian girls are only meant for one thing, the [sexual] pleasure of Muslim men."

Chowdhry said, "As usual, Pakistani police are reportedly "doing little to apprehend the young men and are allegedly delaying the investigative process."

He said that violence against Christians is rarely investigated and highly unlikely to be met with justice. Women have a low status in Pakistan, but none more so than Christian women who find themselves under the grip or terror, especially after this attack.

Chowdhry added that accounts like this - including the claim that it is a Muslim man's right to rape Christians and other "infidels" - are common in Pakistan.

In another incident, a Muslim rapist, while attacking a 9-year-old Christian girl in Pakistan, had told her "not to worry because he had done the same service to other young Christian girls."

Locals discussing the man's remark, said: "It is shameful. Such incidents occur frequently. Christian girls are considered goods to be damaged at leisure. Abusing them is a right. According to the community's mentality it is not even a crime. Muslims regard them as spoils of war."

The Islamic concept of "spoils" (ghanima) is applied specifically to property acquired by force from non-Muslims. It includes, however, not only property (movable and immovable) but also persons, whether in the capacity of asra (prisoners of war) or sabi (women and children).

According to an article in Gatestone Institute, a think tank, even in Western nations, Muslims from Pakistan believe it is their right to rape and sexually abuse "infidel" women  or even Muslim women if they are out at night unaccompanied or not wearing a veil.

Today, as Muslims spread into the West, what they do to "infidel" women in their adopted countries is increasingly what they do to "infidel" women in their home countries, it says.
The man kicked her, shouted obscenities at her and saying that President Donald Trump will get rid of all of you, authorities said.

Robin Rhodes approached Rabeeya Khan, who wears a hijab, at the Sky Club in Terminal 2 while she was sitting in the utility office, authorities said. (Photo: Representational Image/AFP)

New York: A businessman attacked a Muslim employee at a Kennedy Airport lounge, kicking her, shouting obscenities at her and saying that President Donald Trump "will get rid of all of you," authorities said.

Robin Rhodes, of Worcester, Massachusetts, had arrived from Aruba and was awaiting a connecting flight to Massachusetts on Wednesday night when he approached Rabeeya Khan, who wears a hijab, at the Sky Club in Terminal 2 while she was sitting in the utility office, authorities said. Khan is a contracted employee based at the Sky Club and works for a facility services company called ISS, according to Delta.

Khan told police that Rhodes came to the door and went on a profanity-laced tirade, asking her if she was praying, District Attorney Richard A. Brown said. Rhodes then punched the door, which hit the back of Khan's chair, he said. The 60-year-old Khan asked Rhodes what she had done to him and Rhodes said she'd done nothing, authorities said. He then cursed at her and kicked her in the leg, Khan told police.

When another person tried to calm him down, Rhodes moved away from the door and Khan ran out of the office to the front desk at the club, authorities said. Rhodes, 57, followed her, got down on his knees and began to bow down to imitate Muslim prayers and shouted obscenities, investigators said.

Khan recalled Rhodes saying: "Trump is here now. He will get rid of all of you. You can ask Germany, Belgium and France about these kinds of people. You see what happens," prosecutors said.

At the time of his arrest, Rhodes told officers, "I guess I am going to jail for disorderly conduct," Brown said.

The airline condemned the behavior in a statement Friday.

"What happened in this incident is totally unacceptable and Delta has made its stance clear on these types of events," Delta said in the statement. "People who are violent or exhibit bullying behavior are not welcome."

Rhodes appeared in court Thursday night on charges of assault and menacing as hate crimes and is being held on $30,000 bail. He was represented by a public defender for the court hearing, but will have to get his own attorney for subsequent proceedings. His next court date is Feb. 8.

His mother, Dorothy Rhodes, said the behaviour alleged by authorities is uncharacteristic of her son.

"It's not like him at all," she said. "He's not a violent person. He's very kind."

Robin Rhodes is the president of Nitrofreeze Cryogenic Solutions, a metals company based in Worcester.

Dorothy Rhodes said her son "goes out of his way to hire people of different races and ethnicities."

Brown said Rhode displayed bigotry and hatred that "have no place in a civilized society, especially in Queens County, the most culturally diverse county in the nation."

Khan was taking some time off from work, her employer said.

"Our main priority right now is to ensure that the involved employee knows how much we support and value her," ISS said in a statement. "When she is ready, we look forward to her safe return to work."
Pillalamarri said she was uncertain of what her rights were when the officers stopped her.

New York: An Indian-American woman, who has lived in the US for over 30 years, was stopped and asked about her immigration status while she was routinely walking in her neighbourhood in Maryland, as tensions and fear grow regarding US President Donald Trump's immigration policies.

Aravinda Pillalamarri, 47 was walking in her Bel Air neighborhood on the morning of December 21, a routine with her, when she said she was stopped by a Bel Air Police Department officer, a report in The Baltimore Sun said.

Pillalamarri, who was born in India but moved with her parents to the US when she was young, was asked by the police officer about what she was doing and she replied that she was walking. The officer continued to ask several questions. When she asked why the officer was asking her so many questions, he replied because someone had called police.

"Walking while brown?" Pillalamarri said she then asked the officer.

The report said a police supervisor arrived at the scene and began to question Pillalamarri more aggressively. The supervisor told her she wasn't free to leave because she "was under criminal investigation."

He asked why she didn't have identification with her.

"Why don't you have ID?" she said the supervisor asked her.

"Are you here illegally?"

Once the officers had run her name through their computer system, Pillalamarri said, she was allowed to leave and walked to her home, just a few doors away.

Pillalamarri, has lived in Bel Air for more than 30 years and is a US citizen. Her parents came to America from India when she was a baby. She went to Bel Air High School.

"Only when the supervisor asked 'are you here illegally' did my sense of colour, and of being unequal, come forth and my interest in my civil rights take a back seat to get out of the situation safely," she said in the report.

"Public safety does not need to come at the cost of civil rights," she added. "I am sharing this incident here not to ask anyone here to find fault or take sides. We are all on the same side and can use this as an opportunity to learn and improve. The responsibility to uphold civil rights is one that all of us share, and we need to do our part and also expect the police to do their part."

Pillalamarri said she walks in her neighbourhood nearly every day. She related her story to members of the Bel Air Board of Town commissioners at their town meeting on January 17, not to get anyone in trouble but to bring to their attention the need to uphold everyone's civil rights.

Colour was not on her mind when she was first stopped, Pillalamarri told the commissioners.

Bel Air Police Department Chief Charles Moore, who's led the agency since September 2015, said he's not sure if his department has a policy specifically dealing with questioning a person's immigration status, but added: "If there isn't one, there will be."

Moore, who was present at the meeting, said his officers do not ask someone's immigration status, particularly during a routine call. In Pillalamarri's case, there had been a call about suspicious activity and the officers responded, he said.

"There could have been more sensitivity on the part of the officer," Moore told the town commissioners.

Pillalamarri said she was uncertain of what her rights were when the officers stopped her.

"Police are training in dealing with people when they stop them on the street, but ordinary people are not necessarily training in interacting with the police," she said to the commissioners. "I did not know when I was stopped whether I had the right to remain silent, whether I was being legally detained or what information I was required to give."

Pillalamarri has since met with Moore, as well as Town Administrator Jesse Bane, who was formerly county sheriff and a career police officer, about the incident.

Moore said at the town meeting the police department could hold an open forum with the community.

"The community needs to be aware of what police are doing. They have to investigate fully," he said. "And on the officer's part, there has to be sensitivity, so it doesn't escalate to the point of being wrong, of things being said they way they're said."
120-day ban also applies to Green Card holders.

Dozens of demonstrators march in and around the main terminal at Portland International Airport, Saturday. (Photo: AP)

Washington: Donald Trumps controversial immigration order that immediately led to some travellers being turned back from US-bound flights or detained at airports sparked widespread condemnation and anger, prompting the United Nations to ask the US President to continue his countrys long tradition of offering asylum to people fleeing war and persecution.

President Trump on Friday signed an executive order that temporarily bans the entry of Syrian refugees and limits the flow of other refugees into the United States by instituting whats being called extreme vetting of immigrants.

People holding green cards are included in Mr Trumps 120-day ban on people from seven Muslim-majority countries from entering the US.

Titled Protection Of The Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry Into The United States, the executive order follows Mr Trumps promise to tighten borders and halt certain refugees from entering the United States. The move, he said, would help protect Americans from terrorist attacks.

We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people, Mr Trump said.

People with green cards, making them legal permanent US residents, from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen have been advised to consult immigration lawyers before travelling outside the country, or trying to return, Muslim Advocates, a civil rights group in Washington, said.

Few hours after Mr Trump signed the executive order, five Iraqi passengers and one Yemeni were barred from boarding an EgyptAir flight from Cairo to New York.

In Tehran, two travel agencies said they had been instructed by Etihad Airways, Emirates and Turkish Airlines not to sell US tickets or allow Iranians holding American visas to board US-bound flights.

In a reciprocal move, Iran on Saturday said it will ban Americans from entering the country in response to Mr Trumps insulting order.

The Islamic Republic of Iran... has decided to respond in kind after the insulting decision of the United States concerning Iranian nationals until the measure is lifted, Irans foreign ministry said in a statement.

The New York Times reported that lawyers representing two Iraqi refugees detained at JFK airport had filed a legal challenge against the measure, demanding their clients be released and proposing a class action in a bid to represent all refugees and migrants affected.

The UN asked Mr Trump to continue his countrys long tradition of welcoming refugees and to ensure their equal treatment, regardless of race, nationality or religion. The appeal came in a joint statement from the UN refugee agency, UNHCR, and the International Organisation for Migration.

The longstanding policy has offered a double win: first by rescuing some of the most vulnerable people in the world, and second by enabling them to enrich their new societies. The contribution of refugees and migrants to their new homes worldwide has been overwhelmingly positive, the UN said in a statement.

Google CEO Sundar Pichai issued a memo to Google staff members currently overseas, ordering them to return to the US immediately if affected by the executive order.

In a message to employees, Mr Pichai, who grew up in India, said that it was painful to see the personal cost of this executive order on our colleagues. At least 187 Google employees were from countries included in the ban.

Our first order of business is to help Googlers who are affected If youre abroad and need help please reach out to our global security team, he said.
Around 43,000 people are under arrest in Turkey on charges or links to last year's failed military coup against Erdogan.

Frankfurt: About 40 mostly high-ranking Turkish soldiers who worked at NATO facilities in Germany but were suspended after the failed coup in Turkey in July have requested asylum in Germany, news magazine Der Spiegel and broadcaster ARD reported on Saturday.

No comment was immediately available from the government or NATO officials.

The reports of the asylum applications filed by Turkish soldiers in Germany came as Chancellor Angela Merkel prepares to travel to Turkey to meet President Tayyip Erdogan.

Ties between the two NATO partners have been strained over issues including alleged spying by Turkish clerics in Germany, German concerns about Turkey's crackdown on dissidents, and Ankara's accusation that Berlin is harboring militants from the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) and far-leftists of the DHKP-C.

The report quoted officials with German federal migration office and the interior ministry as saying that the asylum applications would be handled as all others.

Norbert Roettgen, head of the parliamentary foreign affairs committee, told Spiegel that political considerations could not play a role in asylum cases.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told a conference in November that some Turkish military officers posted to NATO in Europe had requested asylum but gave no specific numbers.

Reuters reported in October that Turkey had fired hundreds of senior military staff serving at NATO in Europe and the United States after the coup. Most were recalled to Turkey, but some chose not to return, fearing reprisals.

Greece's Supreme Court this week ruled against the extradition of eight Turkish soldiers who fled to Greece in July after the abortive coup.
Despite denials by the authorities, hard labour and torture are used against religious scholars and communities. At least two Muslim prisoners died in top-security Ovada-Depe prison in the second half of 2016. Lukman Yaylanov died in summer 2016, possibly as a result of torture, and Narkuly Baltayev several months later.

Ashgabat (AsiaNews)  Repression against freedom of thought and religion continues in Turkmenistan. A recent report revealed that two Muslims died in top security Ovada-Depe prison in the second half of 2016. Lukman Yaylanov died in summer 2016, possibly as a result of torture, and Narkuly Baltayev several months later.

When the bodies of the two men were handed over to their families for burial, relatives had to sign a document banning them from revealing what they saw. However, Baltayev's dead body weighed no more than 25 kilos. Alive, he had been a large man.

Although it is impossible to determine for certain whether they died from torture, neglect or malnourishment, Alternative Turkmenistan News cites another prisoner at the same facility as saying that he heard Yaylanov being tortured in prison.

"When they tortured Lukman Yaylanov, we heard his cries and groans on the upper floors of the prison," said the former inmate.

The two prisoners who died were both part of an informal group of Sunni Muslim scholars led by Bahram Saparov.

The latter and 19 others, including Yaylanov, were arrested in March 2013 and sentenced to long prison in May of that year.

Yaylanov, who was from Garabekevul District, had joined Saparovs Muslim group to study the bases of Hanafi Sunni Islam. However, the Ministry of State Security (MSS) soon began to harass him, and subject him to violent interrogations. The police even used known criminals to try to provoke group members.

Even Atageldi aga, the imam of an unregistered Sunni mosque in Khitrovka District, Ashgabat, died in a labour camp after being arrested in 2008 for exercising freedom of expression.

Some prisoners managed to survive the torture, among them Mansur Masharipov, a Jehovahs Witness, tortured by police in the northern city of Dashoguz.

On 18 January 2013, the police opened a criminal case against members of the Saparov group. Yaylanov and Saparov were among 21 suspects detained. On 22 October 2013, at the conclusion of their trial, the court sentenced the 20 members of the group to long prison terms.

The defendants were convicted under Criminal Code Article 174, Part 1 ("Conspiracy to seize power"), Article 175, Part 2 ("Calls to violent change of the constitutional order"), Article 177, Part 3 ("Incitement of social, ethnic or religious hatred"), Article 275, Parts 1 and 2 ("Creation of an organised group, criminal association or other criminal structures or participation in their activity") and Article 291 ("Theft of extortion of weapons, military materiel, explosive substances and explosive devices").

Saparov was sentenced to 15 years in prison; the sentences of others remain unknown. Since the trials were held in secret, relatives of the accused were not informed about either charges or convictions. The defendants lawyers were allowed to represent their clients.

"The relatives don't even know if their children are still alive, and if yes, where they are kept," Alternative Turkmenistan News said. When they try to visit prison camps, they are told that their children are not there, or that they had been transferred somewhere else.

Yet, the Turkmen government claimed before the United Nations Human Rights Committee on 25 October 2016 that "In 2015 to 2016, no cases were known to Turkmenistan's Interior Ministry of harsh treatment on the part of officials towards sentenced people/

Similarly, Turkmen authorities had earlier denied claims that people were tortured in detention in its written report submitted to the United Nations Committee Against Torture on 16 July 2015. "No cases of death resulting from torture during custody have been recorded in the country," it noted.

Like all of the countrys religious groups, Turkmen Muslims face harsh repression from the government in terms of their right to freedom of expression, religion and thought. What is more, its Sunni Muftiate (Muslim Spiritual Administration) is under strict government control.
Concerned about the declining numbers of the consecrated, the pontiff notes that a world dominated by the culture of the provisional and money forgets "the beauty of a simple and austere life". He calls for evangelising in lieu of the culture of success at any price, shying away from worldliness, yet maintaining the "strength of mission".

Vatican City (AsiaNews)  Pope Francis today spoke to the Plenary Session of the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life. In a world ruled by a culture of the transient and money, consecrated persons should shy away from the "logic of worldliness" and instead "maintain the freshness and novelty of the centrality of Jesus, something to offer to young people.

Francis pointed out that consecrated people must maintain fidelity even when it is tested. He noted that statistics show that the Church is haemorrhaging, which is weakening consecrated life and the Church herself. Given the number of dropouts, there is every reason to be very concerned, and to wonder why it is happening.

First, he said, there are the factors that "affect fidelity in this era of change. Indeed, We live immersed in the so-called culture of the fragment, the provisional, which can lead to living 'a la carte' and be slaves to trends. This culture induces the need to have side doors always open to other possibilities; it feeds consumerism and forgets the beauty of a simple and austere life, and in many cases causes an existential void.

This also produces a powerful practical relativism, according to which everything is judged in terms of a self-realisation that is often extraneous to the values of the Gospel."

"We live, he added, in a society where economic rules replace those of morality; laws that dictate and impose their own frames of reference at the expense of the values of life; a society where the dictatorship of money and profit proposes a vision of existence in which those who do not contribute to it are discarded." In this situation, "it is clear that we must first be evangelised and then engage in evangelisation.

Francis then turned his thoughts to "the world of youth, complex but at the same time rich and challenging. For him, "there are many wonderful young people. Yet, even among young people, many are the victims of the logic of worldliness, which can be summarised as the quest for success at any price, for easy money and for easy pleasure.

This logic seduces many young people as well. We must commit ourselves to stand by them so as to infect them with the joy of the Gospel and [a sense of] affiliation with Christ. This culture must be evangelised if we do not want young people to succumb."

The Holy father noted a third negative factor that comes "from within the consecrated life itself, where alongside great holiness", there are "situations of counter-witness that make fidelity hard to uphold.

These include "routine, fatigue, heavy bureaucratic structures, internal divisions, the quest for power [. . .], parvenus, [. . .] a worldly manner of running institutions, a service by authorities that sometimes becomes authoritarianism and other times is laissez-faire."

Yet, "If the consecrated life wants to maintain its prophetic mission and appeal, continuing to be a school of faithfulness for those near and those afar (cf. Eph 2:17), it must maintain the freshness and novelty of the centrality of Jesus, its spiritual attractiveness, and the strength of mission as well as show the beauty of following Christ and radiate hope and joy. [. . .] When hope is missing, there is no joy, and things are ugly."

Francis went on to stress that we must "especially take care" of "fraternal life in community." This "must be nurtured by community prayer", and "active participation in the sacraments", as well as "mercy towards brothers or sisters who sin, and share responsibilities."

All this must be "accompanied by an eloquent and joyful witness of simple life alongside the poor and a mission that privileges existential peripheries." At the same time, we must defend themselves "from trends and the culture of the ephemeral" and continue "to walk firm in the faith."

"This means that we too must keep our eyes fixed on the Lord, always careful to walk according to the logic of the Gospel and not succumb to worldly criteria. Many times, great infidelities take small detours or distractions. In this case too, it is important to make our own Saint Pauls exhortation: "it is the hour now for you to awake from sleep' (Rom 13:11).

The pontiff ended his address emphasising the importance of accompaniment. It is necessary, he warned, that "the consecrated life invests in training qualified guides to this ministry."

Such accompaniment should "not create dependency," but it has to help "discernment." This, he noted, is not solved only by "choosing between good and evil, but between good and better, between what is good and what leads to identification with Christ."
by Pavel Felgenhauer

Trump signed two executive order to keep "terrorists" out of the US. Giving priority to Christian refugees, he suspends admissions for Syrians. For 90 days, Iraqis, Iranians, Somalis, Libyans, Sudanese and Yemenis are barred from the US. Irans president responds by rejecting walls. Meanwhile, talks about Syrias future continue. On the recent Astana talks, we propose the reflection of an expert. Courtesy of the Jamestown Foundation.

Damascus (AsiaNews)  US president Donald Trump has signed two executive orders to keep terrorists out of the United States. Giving priority to Christian refugees, he suspended "indefinitely" admissions for Syrian refugees. He also banned for 90 days the citizens of Libya, Iran, Iraq, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen from entering the US. "I am establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America. We dont want them here, the US leader said.

Reacting to Trumps statements, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani did not mince his words. "They have forgotten that the Berlin Wall collapsed many years ago. Even if there are walls between nations, they must be removed," Rouhani said.

Meanwhile, focus is on the next UN peace talks on Syria, originally set for 8 February in Geneva. Now doubts and uncertainties have emerged, with the possibility that they may be put off to late February although there is no confirmation yet.

Here is the reflection on the situation in Syria and the recent peace talks in Astana, Kazakhstan, sponsored by Russia, Turkey and Iran, by the Jamestown Foundation.

Last month (December 2016), the eastern half of Syrias prewar most-populated city, Aleppo, held by opposition fighters since 2012, fell under a relentless assault from joint Iranian, Russian and pro-government Syrian forces The Syrian opposition fighters, together with some of the civilian population, were allowed to withdraw from Aleppo to the nearby opposition-held province of Idlib after their defenses were crushed and resistance became senseless.

Forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad and Iranian-led Shia militias did not seem happy with the oppositions withdrawal from Aleppo, but Moscow insisted on a free passage. A reinforced battalion of Russian military police (MP) consisting of Sunni Muslim soldiersmostly former Chechen separatist fighters who now serve under the Russian flagwith some additional personnel coming from other Sunni Muslim regions of Russia were deployed in Syria (see EDM, December 8).

According to Chechen strongman Ramzan Kadyrov, today these Chechen Muslim MPs defend Aleppo (Instagram.com, January 24).

After Aleppos fall, the future of the Syrian opposition forces looked bleak. It seemed reasonable to expect the joint pro-al-Assad forces would keep up the momentum and push further to uproot the Syrian opposition from their last major positions: the city of Idlib, the surrounding province as well as opposition-held suburbs of Damascus. But Moscow apparently had other plans. At the end of December, Russia and Turkey agreed on a ceasefire and peace talks between the Syrian government and the armed opposition, in Kazakhstans capital of Astana (Anadolu, December 28, 2016). The ceasefire, though shaky, has been holding. The peace talks in Astana proceeded as planned this week under the auspices of Russia, Turkey and Iran. No breakthroughs came out of the latest Astana meeting, but there has been no outright collapse of the talks either. All sides have agreed to maintain the ceasefire and continue a dialogue through intermediaries, which allowed Russia to claim overall success (RIA Novosti, January 24).

The opposition forces were represented in Astana not by the political representatives of the revolutionary anti-al-Assad forces, but by a delegation of field commanders led by Mohammed Alloush, the leader of Jaysh al-Islama coalition of Islamist and Salafist units primarily operating in the Damascus area, in the city of Douma and Eastern Ghouta. Other large opposition armed groups were absent, in particular Ahrar al-Sham, a dominant force in Idlib, in the north of Syria.

With only a fraction of opposition fighters present, there was no practical reason to expect any fundamental breakthrough in Astana. Arab states that support the anti-al-Assad opposition were also not represented. Russia and Turkey extended an invitation to the new administration of President Donald Trump, while Iran resisted any presence of officials from the United States.

In the end, the US sent as an observer its ambassador to Astana, George Krol, apparently to play to role of a fly on the wall. Foreign observers and diplomats accredited in Astana, together with the press, roamed the lobby of the Rixos Hotel (the venue for the Astana talks), evidently baffled as to Moscows true aims in organizing the meeting.

A vague communique was issued after two days of talks. The Syrian opposition and government teams had refused to talk face to face and were present together only at the opening plenary session.

The United Nations Syria mediator, Staffan de Mistura, announced he intends to reconvene peace talks, in Geneva, on February 8, apparently involving the political wing of the Syrian opposition but without any guarantee these talks may achieve any success. Russia, Turkey and Iran agreed to jointly monitor the ceasefire, while the opposition delegation accused Iran of interference in the Syrian war. At the same time, the al-Assad government delegation accused Turkey of supporting terrorists (RBC, January 24).

On its face, Astana looks like one more still-born attempt at reaching an overall Syrian settlement; but Russias true objectives for the meeting may have been quite different. The military success of the Aleppo offensive demonstrated the futility of opposing Russian firepower in the open or entrenched within a large city. Now, Russia is offering the Syrian opposition (Islamists and Salafists included) a deal: To die fighting or sign up as de facto collaborators.

This seems to be working at least with Jaysh al-Islam and other smaller groups that were represented in Astana. Jaysh al-Islams leader, Alloush, announced his desire to continue talks with Moscow and expressed hope that the Russians could curtail the activities of Iran and the Iranian-sponsored Hezbollah (RBC, January 24).

In Idlib and the north of Syria, Ahrar al-Sham and other opposition groups have apparent backing from Turkey. But in and around Damascus, the opposition, including Jaysh al-Islam, is effectively surrounded. An Aleppo-style siege of Eastern Ghouta with full Russian support would surely end in the oppositions defeat. However, at present, Moscow seems to have other plans and Alloush was granted some positive coverage on Russian state TV.

The head of the Russian delegation in Astana, Alexander Lavrentyev, told reporters, Both sides are violating the ceasefire in Syria, but al-Assads pro-government forces do it more often because of provocations organized by al-Nusra [al-Nusra Front, a radical Islamist militant group in Syria recently renamed Jabhat Fateh al-Sham]. Lavrentyev announced that Moscow will be focusing on pacifying Eastern Ghouta and Wadi Barada in the Damascus region, though it cannot be said that Eastern Ghouta is fully controlled by the moderate opposition (Militarynews.ru, January 24).

Accusing al-Assad forces of violating the ceasefire is a change of tone; and previously, the Russian military denied the very existence of a moderate Syrian opposition. According to Lavrentyev, Russian military representatives held separate direct talks with the Syrian opposition delegation in Astana, which lasted through the night. The two sides agreed on maps of delimitation of the opposition with internationally designated terrorists from Jabhat Fateh al-Sham and the Islamic State (Militarynews.ru, January 24).

The Russian military continues to carpet-bomb the Islamic State and other designated evildoers in Syria, despite the ceasefire, while offering a place and a political future to the opposition that is willing to sign deals and eventually turn coat like the Chechen kadyrovtsy (see above).

The secret direct military talks with the opposition delegation in Astana could have been the main reason the meeting was organized. Moscow seems to be trying to somewhat distance itself from al-Assad and his Iranian sponsors. At the same time, Moscow is seemingly attempting to build closer ties with Sunnis in Syria and possibly throughout the Middle East as a basis for Russias long-term future dominance in the region.
More and more patients are infected with superbugs that can even resist last resort antibiotics used in extreme situations. About 1 per cent of those samples were resistant to colistin. The danger is that nothing might be available to treat bacterial infections, a remote scenario that cannot be ruled out.

Beijing (AsiaNews)  A growing number of people in China may be infected with antibiotic-resistant superbugs.

Researchers examined more than 17,000 samples from patients with infections of common bacteria found in the gut, in two hospitals in Chinas Zhejiang and Guangdong provinces, over eight years.

About 1 per cent of those samples were resistant to colistin, often considered the last option in antibiotics.

We might not be very close to that happening, but it is a remote possibility if we arent careful about how we use our antibiotics, one expert said.

The study, published in the Lancet journal, is one of the first to document the extent of drug-resistant infections in more than one Chinese province.

For decades, China has used colistin in agriculture to speed animals growth. Scientists say the latest work is further evidence that overuse in animals can spread to people.

Chinese officials earlier this year approved colistin for use in hospitals, raising fears that it could worsen the resistance problem.

Health officials have long worried that antibiotic-resistant bacteria might spread more widely, setting the stage for superbug infections that would theoretically be impervious to medications. Only a small number of such cases worldwide have been detected.

The worst case scenario would be for these bacteria to become untreatable even with the toughest drugs available today.
Aamir Liaquat Hussain hosts a programme on Bol TV. In the past, he has been at the centre of controversy for giving abandoned children to childless couples and hosting anti-Ahmadi Islamic radicals. His comments can provoke violent reactions against those calling for the return of five missing intellectuals.

Islamabad (AsiaNews)  The Pakistan Electronic Media Authority (PEMRA) has banned Aamir Liaquat Hussain, a high-profile television host, from appearing on television.

The media regulator said it has received "hundreds" of complaints against the broadcaster accusing him of hate speech against five intellectuals and activists who have gone missing in the past few weeks. Instead of obeying the ban, he appeared in a video. Now the TV station risks losing its license.

Aamir Liaquat is not new to excessive and improper behaviour. In 2008 he dedicated an entire show to exploring the beliefs of the Ahmadis, a minority in Pakistan that is considered heretical. During the programme, two Islamic scholars said all followers of false prophets are "worthy of murder."

In 2013 Liaquat caused a lot of controversy when he handed out abandoned children to childless couples on his show.

Recently, during the broadcast of the Aisay Nahi Chalay Ga (It is not acceptable) programme on Bol TV, he accused Professor Salman Haider and the four missing Lahore bloggers of insulting Islam, a crime punishable with death in Pakistan.

His allegations against the activist bloggers are serious as the mere suspicion of blasphemy can evoke a strong reaction from a section of organised religion in Pakistan, with victims being attacked and in some cases lynched by angry mobs.

Increasingly, many believe that the five intellectuals were seized by the police for publishing comments critical of religious extremism and radical elements in the government and the armed forces. For his part, the broadcaster cast doubts on this, claiming that the five had defected to India.

Liaquat also attacked others in the entertainment business and social activists, saying that many in media and civil society are "non-Muslims", "infidels," "enemies of Islam" and "Indian spies".

Separately, Rawalpindi police on Thursday registered a case against Liaquat under the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) for indulging in hate speech and threatening the life of activist and lawyer Jibran Nasir, a lawyer and a leading advocate for the five missing intellectuals.

In a statement, the All Pakistan Newspapers Society also expressed profound concern over the incessant trend of unscrupulous outbursts of baseless allegations and hate mongering on a satellite channel against journalists, publishers and editors of newspapers.
Hi Guys,



Just looking for someone to shed a little light on this. So I submitted my application for the 820 visa online back on 28/06/16. Hadn't heard a peep from immigration until last week 18/01/17 when I received an email requesting I complete my medicals within 28 days (that's all good, I have my appointment booked this coming Monday).



Anyways, up until a couple of days ago, I was still given the option to upload evidence to both mine and my sponsor's parts of the online application. I then logged into my Immi account yesterday and it now says "approved" on my sponsor's section and it does not allow me to upload any further documents on his part. My section remains the same as before. So, I might be looking too deeply into this, but could this be a good sign? I am also unsure as to whether I have a case officer yet or not, I'm assuming yes? The request for medicals was signed off under a first name with a "Position Number: XXXXXX" - would this be my case officer?



I'm trying not to jump the gun here by thinking I may have an outcome to my application soon after I complete my medicals, so just seeing if anyone can offer some advice?



Thank you in advance!
Groupe Renault sales in South America rose by 0.1% despite a market shrinkage of 4.1%, according to auto manufacturer.

The automaker posted a market share of 6.5% in the Americas, up by 0.3 points.

In Brazil, the automakers market share rose by 0.2 points to a record 7.5% on a market that slipped back 19.8% due to performance of the Duster Oroch, according to Renault. In 2017, the region will see releases of the manufacturers range of SUVs, including the Captur, Kwid, Koleos, and Alaskan.

The Renault brand in the Argentinian market saw registrations up by 24.8% against growth of 9.1% in the market as a whole. In Colombia, sales volume and market share hit records of 21.3%.
Photo courtesy of Renault

Renault Trucks has commenced construction of an assembly plant in Meftah, Algeria, where it will assemble C and K range vehicles for the local market.

In order to comply with new Algerian regulations, vehicles will be manufactured at the Soprovi assembly plant. Renault Trucks and the BSF Soukari group signed a shareholder joint-venture agreement in August, and construction of the new plant began earlier this month, according to the automaker.

Renault Trucks Algeria and its network employ nearly 600 people, according to Renault Trucks. The Algerian European truck manufacturer has almost a 40% share of the 16-ton market for European vehicles.

Approximately 1,000 vehicles are set to be assembled in 2018 and 2,000 in 2019. The plant is set to create nearly 500 jobs, including 200 direct jobs and will be mainly dedicated to assembling Renault Trucks C and K ranges. The Soprovi plant is being built in Meftah, in the province of Blida.

This new Algerian production site confirms the commitment of Renault Trucks to the Algerian market and is set to play a long-term role in the economic and social development of the country, according to Renault.
Photo of the overseas 2018 Toyota Camry courtesy of Toyota.

Toyota is shifting production of the 2018 Camry for the Australian market to Japan, which will replace the locally-made Camry.

Toyota, which has been building cars in Australia since 1963, will be the last of the local manufacturers to close its doors, according to the automaker.

Toyota Australia anticipates sales of the new car would decline  partly because of the loss of some fleet and Government sales as the buy-Australian policies come to an end, and partly from declining interest in mid-sized cars.

The 2018 next generation Camry will be available with three engine choices  four-cylinder and V-6 petrol, and a petrol-electric hybrid.
Photo of the Outlander PHEV courtesy of Mitsubishi Motors.

Mitsubishi Corp. has secured a deal for the sale of 635 Outlander plug-in hybrid electric vehicle's (PHEV) in Ukraine.

The vehicles are manufactured by Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) and will be sold through MMC Ukraine, a subsidiary of Mitsubishi and local distributor of MMC vehicles and spare parts, according to the automaker

The PHEVs are being purchased by the local police and delivery to the Ukrainian government is planned for around July 2017. Mitsubishi holds 60% of shares in MMC Ukraine while local partner NIKO holds the remaining 40%.

The Ukrainian governments decision to replace a portion of its current fleet of police cars with the PHEV is to promote environmentally friendly policies. The PHEVs environmental performance has been highly evaluated by the Ukrainian government, according to the automaker.

With a population of 45 million, Ukraine is one of the largest countries in Eastern Europe and the CIS, second only to Russia, and is expected to see notable economic growth over the medium to long term, according to the automaker.
By Trend

The world is tired of Armenias obstinacy, Azerbaijani Deputy Prime Minister Ali Hasanov told reporters in Baku Jan. 27.

Organizations and states all over the world are tired of the obstinate, non-constructive stance and the aggressive policy of Armenia, Hasanov, who also chairs Azerbaijani State Committee for Refugees and IDPs, said.

Even Armenias patrons are tired of it, he said. The Armenian diaspora in the US, France and other countries have either ceased or reduced their aid to Armenia. They see that their aid doesnt reach the Armenian population, but goes to Sargsyan regime.

He said that neither the two peoples, nor the leadership of Azerbaijan are to blame for the events that occurred during the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

We have become victims of the policy of some states, Hasanov said.

He stressed that the current regime in Armenia has ripped its people off and brings its end closer by clashing with Azerbaijan.

The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts.

The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts.

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
28 January 2017 15:00 (UTC+04:00)

A group of 41 Azerbaijani soldiers serving within NATO's "Resolute Support" mission in Afghanistan has returned to Baku on a rotating basis, Azertac reported.

The peacekeeping contingent of the Azerbaijani Armed Forces has been serving under the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan since November 20, 2002.

Currently, 90 servicemen, 2 medical officers and 2 sappers of Azerbaijani Armed Forces are participating in a mission in Afghanistan.

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
28 January 2017 13:31 (UTC+04:00)

By Trend

Azerbaijani presidents order to restore the Jabrayil Districts Jojug Marjanli village, liberated from the Armenian occupation in April 2016, has been praised both by the people of Azerbaijan and international organizations, said Deputy Prime Minister Ali Hasanov.

Hasanov, who also chairs the State Committee for Refugees and IDPs, noted that visits of ambassadors and representatives of international organizations to Jojug Marjanli will be organized.

The April battles are our glorious history. There were martyrs in the battles, but today their souls rest in peace, as people with a great desire return to the lands liberated at the price of their blood, said the deputy prime minister.

He said that under the presidents order, each house in the village should be examined urgently and the relevant documents should be prepared immediately.

Currently, the Azerbaijan National Agency for Mine Action (ANAMA) continues mine clearance in those lands, added Hasanov.

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
28 January 2017 14:30 (UTC+04:00)

By Trend

Armenia will continue its dialogue with Russia on the supply of weapons within the Russian loan of $200 million, Armenian Defense Minister Vigen Sargsyan said, aysor.am news website reports.

Today we receive weapons as part of our cooperation with Russia and the CSTO, he said. But it is insufficient to meet the need for supermodern weapons.

Therefore, we are using all opportunities in the Russian market and by cooperating with our partners from other countries to replenish the Armenian Armed Forces arsenal, the minister said.

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
The forex trading week has come and gone.

Time to take a look at what was driving forex price action.

Were you able to profit from any of this weeks top movers?

Another week of pound domination and yen weakness was the main theme this week. Although weve also got Kiwi and Loonie strength as secondary themes.

So, what was driving forex price action on these currencies? And how did the other currencies fare?

The Pound Sterling

Last week, I told yall to keep an eye on the pound because the U.K. Supreme Court was expected to deliver a ruling by January 24, which could be another source of fun for the pound (or not).

Well, that top-tier event was indeed a source of fun for the pound. Moreover, that event also helped propel the pound higher against ALL its peers this week.

Most pound pairs started the week on a strong footing, likely because of preemptive positioning, given that expectations were high that the government would lose the Supreme Court case. The pound then started to dip on Tuesday, as bulls who got in early started taking some profits off the table.

And when the ruling was finally announced that, as expected, the Court judged against the governments authority to start the Brexit process without Parliaments approval, the pound initially tried to jump on the good news, since the ruling would give anti-Brexit MPs a chance to get a softer Brexit.

However, the ruling was a mixed blessing (for the anti-Brexit and/or pro-Single Market camps), since the Court also ruled that the U.K. government has no legal obligation to seek the approval of and/or consult with the devolved legislatures of Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland in order to start the Brexit process.

As such, Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon angrily reacted to the ruling by saying that another Scottish independence referendum is becoming ever clearer. Meanwhile, forex traders reacted by dumping the pound. Although profit-taking by the early bulls was also very likely.

The pound then slumped even harder after Brexit Secretary David Davis said in his prepared speech to Parliament that the government will present a Brexit Bill within days and that it would be straightforward, which is bad for anti-Brexit MPs, since that implies that the government plans to make it difficult to table amendments to the Bill, thereby making a so-called hard Brexit all but inevitable.

However, the pound later made a U-turn after Brexit Davis told Parliament that it will have great influence in the Brexit process, saying later that the planned Brexit Bill will be designed to allow for substantive amendments.

These statements very likely revived expectations that anti-Brexit MPs would have a chance to fight for a softer Brexit, thereby sending the pound higher.

Moving on, there were no major catalysts for the pound on Wednesday, but it ended up extending its broad-based gains, very likely on optimism that the Brexit Bill would allow for amendments, as well as preemptive positioning ahead of the U.K.s Q4 GDP report.

The pound rally continued on Thursday but got cut short when the GDP report got released during Thursdays morning London session. Both the quarter-on-quarter and year-on-year readings for the U.K.s GDP growth were better-than-expected, but total growth for 2016 was only 2.0%, which is slower than 2015s 2.2%.

Moreover, this is the slowest pace of expansion since 2013, which is a bit disappointing and probably why forex traders decided to use the overall upbeat GDP report as a pretext to take some profits off the table.

And things only got worse for the pound later on, since the U.K. government published the highly-awaited Brexit Bill, and it looked like this:

As you can see, the 133-word Brexit Bill is indeed very straightforward, just as Brexit Davis said. Furthermore, the Brexit Bill had a very tight timetable, with the second reading scheduled for next week (January 31  February 1).

The tight timetable would make it harder to introduce amendments, so much so that some anti-Brexit MPs bitterly complained that its a disgrace and that it shows contempt for parliamentary sovereignty.

Anyhow, post-GDP profit-taking and worries about the Brexit Bill continued to take its toll on the pound until Friday. Still, the pound already had a bountiful harvest during the course of the week, and so it ended up as the best-performing currency of the week.

Again, the second reading is scheduled for next week, so make sure to keep an eye on the pound, since thats when the Parliamentary debates start, so chances are good that were gonna get some more fun from the pound next week.

In addition, weve got a bunch of PMI reports, as well as the BOE statement, so all the more reason to keep an eye on the pound.

The Japanese Yen

Regular readers who have been around since November of last year may have noticed that I occasionally let slip my own bearish bias on the yen. Also, regulars may have noticed that Ive been mentioning since November that the yens price action has been heavily linked to the ebb and flow of bond yields, particularly U.S. bond yields.

Ive already explained this a few times before, so regulars may wanna skip this part. But for the newbies out there, the fundamental reason for this is that global bond yields rose when Trump won the race to the White House because the markets focus turned to The Donalds fiscal stimulus plans, which stoked risk appetite and demand for riskier assets/instruments, namely U.S. equities.

However, this came at the expense of safer assets/instruments, namely U.S. bonds. And as you learned from our Schools lesson on How Bond Yields Affect Currency Movements, mass dumping of bonds means higher bond yields. And the rise in U.S. bond yields, together with the Trump-induced risk-on vibes and the Feds December rate hike, pushed global bond yields higher.

However, the BOJs monetary policy framework since the September 2016 BOJ statement has been the so-called QQE With Yield Curve Control, wherein the BOJ keeps Japanese government bond (JGB) yields close to 0% through unlimited bond purchases.

And the BOJ doesnt buy government bonds directly from the Japanese government. Instead, the BOJ buys em with cash from financial institutions, mainly banks. Cash purchases, in turn, generally mean printing more yen, which weakens the yen.

In addition, this has continually fueled expectations that the BOJ would step in whenever Japanese bond yields rise, which weakens the yen.

Moreover, this has made Japanese bonds less attractive, which is also bad for the yen, not to mention the wider spread between Japanese bond yields and bond yields from other countries, which reduces the attractiveness of Japanese bonds even further.

With that out of the way, the yen was the weakest currency of the week this week after being the second weakest currency last week, which is awesome (well, for me it is).

The yen had a good start on Monday, thanks to the dip in U.S. bond yields, which was blamed by market analysts on safe-haven demand for bonds due to Trumps protectionist trade plans.

The yen then got its comeuppance on Tuesday when bond yields surged, thanks to mass dumping of bonds on returning risk-on vibes, which market analysts attributed to the U.K. Supreme Courts ruling, positive Euro Zone data, and the U.S. equities rally on that day.

Global bond yields continued to rise on Wednesday, including the yields of JGBs, but reports came out that the BOJ unexpectedly refrained from buying short-term JGBs while maintaining the pace of its long-term JGB purchases.

This apparently caused confusion among yen traders as to what the nefarious BOJ is scheming, which is why the yen traded sideways for the day instead of weakening further.

Bond yields continued to rise on Thursday, though, so yen shorts ultimately won out. However, U.S. bond yields returned a large chunk of their gains later in the day, thanks to strong demand for 7-year bonds during the auction held on that day.

Conveniently for yen shorts, a Reuters report came out that the BOJ unexpectedly ramped up its purchases of 5-10 year JGBs, which clearly showed that the BOJ still intends to enforce its monetary framework, thereby causing the yen to weaken further instead of recovering.

And this report and its implications apparently continued to weigh down on the yen on Friday, since bond yields also rose only to dip later when the U.S. printed disappointing GDP numbers.

Okay! On to the next currency! But before that, make sure to also keep an eye on the yen next week, since weve got the BOJ statement coming up on Tuesday.

The New Zealand Dollar

Depending on your data feed, the Kiwi either edged out a win against the Loonie, or the Loonie barely won out against the Kiwi. Either way, the implication is the same  both the Loonie and the Kiwi were in high demand for the week. Lets start with the Kiwi first.

Most commodities were actually down for the week. Still, the higher-yielding Kiwi did pretty well, thanks to the prevalence of risk appetite during the week, which market analysts mainly attributed to renewed optimism on Trumps fiscal plans.

Nikkei 225 ( N225 ) closed 1.72% higher to 19,467.40 for the week

Shanghai Composite ( SSEC ) closed 1.15% higher to 3,159.17 for the week

Hang Seng ( HSI ) closed 2.07% higher to 23,360.78 for the week

The Euro Stoxx 50 ( STOXX50E ) closed 0.10% higher to 3,302.62 for the week

The DAX ( GDAXI ) closed 1.58% higher to 11,814.27 for the week

The DOW ( DJI ) closed 1.34% higher to 20,093.78 for the week

S&P 500 ( SPX ) closed 1.03% higher to 2,294.69 for the week

Nasdaq Composite ( IXIC ) closed 1.90% higher to 5,660.78 for the week

Some market analysts also point to New Zealands better-than-expected CPI reading. I dont agree with that, though, since the Kiwis bullish knee-jerk reaction ultimately got faded, which implies that forex traders actually used that event as a pretext for some profit-taking.

Getting back on topic, U.S. dollar dynamics were also very likely in play, since the Greenback was a net loser this week, despite the rise in U.S. bond yields and U.S. equities ending the week on a high note.

And as Ive been pointing out for the past several weeks, a weaker Greenback usually means a stronger Kiwi. Also, U.S. dollar dynamics help to explain the Kiwi rally losing steam on Thursday despite persistent risk-on vibes, since that is when the Greenback regained its composure. Anyway, well talk more about that more when we get to the Greenback.

The Canadian Dollar

The Loonie was the third best-performing currency of the week. Loonie pairs were tracking oil prices for the most part, and oil benchmarks ended the week in the green.

U.S. crude oil ( CLG6 ) up by 1.49% to $53.20 per barrel for the week

Brent crude oil ( LCOH6 ) up by 0.07% to $55.53 per barrel for the week

But as you can see on the chart above, oils price action was rather choppy while the Loonie just plowed through most of its forex rivals. Also, the Loonie appreciated broadly and significantly on Tuesday. What was that about? Well, this happened.

The Keystone XL pipeline project, which runs from Alberta, Canada to the State of Nebraska (with the ultimate destination being U.S. Gulf Coast oil refineries), is expected to generate benefits for Canada to the tune of $2.4 billion per year, according to Reuters.

And a large chunk of this would go to the good people of Alberta, who were hit the hardest by the great oil slump of 2014-2015. As such, this move is very positive news for the Canadian economy and the Loonie.

However, Trump is Trump, so in the spirit of his America First policy, Trump also demanded that American materials be used for the pipes. Interestingly enough, only the Loonie got a bullish boost.

Anyhow, do note that trumps Executive Order is only the first step. TransCanada, the would-be developer of the Keystone XL project, has also pushed this developing event forward by submitting its application for a presidential permit.

Makes you wonder if speculators will keep the Loonie supported next week, or if further developments on this event will also further benefit the Loonie, huh?

The Australian Dollar

After being a net winner for several weeks, the Aussies winning streak finally came to an end this week. Not only that, the Aussie ended up as the second weakest currency of the week to boot.

And as you can see on the chart above (and if you look at your own charts), the Aussie had a mixed performance from Monday to Tuesday but got slammed hard across the board during Wednesdays Asian session.

And the main catalyst for that was apparently the miss in Australias CPI reading, with CPI only increasing by 0.5% quarter-on-quarter (0.7% expected, same as previous) and 1.5% year-on-year (1.6% expected, 1.3% previous).

The reaction was likely amplified because the Australia CPI report is released on a quarterly basis, instead of the usual monthly basis, so the CPI report tends to have some heft to it.

Anyhow, Aussie pairs traded roughly sideways after that, with some diverging price action to boot, which implies that opposing currency price action dominated Aussie pairs.

The U.S. Dollar

As mentioned earlier, the Greenback was a net loser this week, despite the rise in U.S. bond yields, as well as the U.S. equity indices closing out the week in positive territory.

The Greenback started the week by sliding lower against its peers. And pretty much all market analysts attributed this to concern over Trumps protectionist and populist inauguration speech.

After that, the Greenback had a mixed performance on Tuesday and Wednesday, even as U.S. equities marched higher and U.S. bond yields rose. And market analysts blamed this on continuing concern over Trumps protectionist attitude, as well as his focus on building the Great Wall of Trump and kicking out or keeping out illegals and unwanted immigrants, rather than on fleshing out his fiscal policies.

Basically, Greenback bulls and Greenback bears were playing a game of tug-of-war, as bulls tried to buy up the Greenback because of climbing U.S. equities and U.S. bond yields, while bears, who were disappointed with Trumps actions, were trying their best to send the Greenback lower.

The bulls finally gained the upper hand, though, as U.S. equities and U.S. bond yields continued to climb higher on Thursday.

Greenback demand then persisted during the first half of Friday, but Greenback bulls got spooked when U.S. GDP came in worse-than-expected, with U.S. Q4 GDP expanding by 1.9% quarter-on-quarter annualized, which is below the expected 2.2% increase. And looking at the GDP report, the slowdown was mainly due to net trade subtracting 1.70% from total GDP growth (+0.85% previous).

This is actually widely expected. For instance, Forex Gump wrote in his Forex Trading Guide for the GDP report that the available economic reports are pointing to a downturn in trade. And since trade was a major growth driver back in Q3, the poor readings for trade will likely weaken GDP growth in Q4. Still, the GDP report was enough to dish out some pain on most Greenback pairs, which was enough to make the Greenback close out the week with a loss on some of its forex rivals.

By the way, the first FOMC statement of the year, as well as another NFP Friday, are on the docket for next week, so you may wanna keep tabs on the Greenback.

The Euro

As usual, the euros price action was another choppy mess, with many euro pairs trading sideways for the entire duration of the trading week, which implies that opposing currencies were dictating price action on euro pairs.

The Swiss Franc

Also, as usual, Swissy just as messy as (or messier than) that of the euros, so opposing price action was also dominant. Just like last week, however, the Swissy had a very noticeable instance of broad-based demand, as highlighted above.

As I noted in Thursdays London session recap, this was rather weird because risk-taking was the dominant sentiment back then, so safe-haven demand for the Swissy should have been limited.

Brexit jitters due to the release of the Brexit Bill is a possible reason for the Swissys strength.

However, the Swissy was already on the move a couple of hours before the Brexit Bill was published, so thats not the likely reason. Anyhow, pretty strange stuff and most analysts chose to just ignore that weird price action.

This weeks scorecard:
U.S. Rep. Raul Labrador (R-Idaho) has announced this week that he will reintroduce the discriminatory anti-LGBT First Amendment Defense Act to the republican controlled House of Representatives for a vote.

FADA would prohibit the federal government from taking discriminatory action against any business or person that discriminates against LGBTQ people. The act distinctly aims to protect the right of all entities (church, privately owned businesses and individuals) to refuse service to LGBTQ people based on two sets of beliefs: (1) marriage is or should be recognized as the union of one man and one woman, or (2) sexual relations are properly reserved to such a marriage.

FADA was first filed in the House and Senate in 2015, but was met with protests from Democrats and resulted in just one House hearing amid concerns that Obama would veto the bill. It is currently co-sponsored by 171 House Republicans and just one Democrat (Daniel Lipinski of Illinois.)

Jennifer Pizer, Law and Policy Director at Lambda Legal, states that the FADA invites widespread, devastating discrimination against LGBT people and is a deeply unconstitutional bill.

This proposed new law violates both Equal Protection and the Establishment Clause by elevating one set of religious beliefs above all others, Pizer said, And by targeting LGBT Americans as a group, contrary to settled constitutional law.

The law would also prevent the government from penalizing or attempting to deny special tax incentives and credits to those who discriminate against LGBT people.

Donald Trump promised to sign FADA into law during his presidential campaign.

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Across town, other community members, including from the UFW Foundation, gathered Friday afternoon outside the Mesa Verde Detention Facility in downtown Bakersfield to protest the immigration executive orders President Donald Trump signed this week.

The facility holds immigration detainees.

According to a news release, the demonstrators wanted to highlight the fact many undocumented residents do low-paying work many rely on, including in farm fields, hotels, nursing facilities and people's homes.

"But instead of calling these workers who are so vital to key sectors of the U.S. economy by their names, President Trump and his supporters call them names: Illegals. Aliens. Lawbreakers," the news release said.

Trump's orders advance promises he made on the campaign trail: to advance work on a U.S.-Mexico border wall, withhold federal funding from sanctuary cities and limit refugees from certain countries.
10 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW: Todays guide to the obscure, the possibly relevant and things in between
The public is invited to join the Laura Ingalls Wilder Memorial Society of Pepin on Saturday, Feb. 4, to celebrate the 150th birthday of the popular author and cultural icon who was born in a log cabin near Pepin in 1867.

The festivities will be held both at the Laura Ingalls Wilder Wayside cabin at the authors birth site and at the Laura Ingalls Wilder Societys museum in the village of Pepin. The museum, at 306 3rd Street, will be open from noon to 4 p.m., with food, birthday cake and a performance on the antique reed organ.

At the wayside on County CC there will be a fire in the fireplace and some cold weather activities at 1 p.m. Hot cider and gingerbread will be served. In the event of bad weather, the alternate date is Sunday, Feb. 5.

Watch the Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum, Pepin Wisconsin Facebook page for up to the minute weather notifications and other details (https://www.facebook.com/LauraIngallsWilderMuseumPepinWisconsin/).

About Lauras home

Laura Ingalls Wilder was born on Feb. 7, 1867, at the site of the Laura Ingalls Wilder Wayside on County CC in rural Pepin (N3228 Cty CC, Stockholm). The events in her first published book, Little House in the Big Woods, describe the life they lived as pioneers in the Pepin area. The chapter, Going to Town, tells some of her memories of the Village of Pepin.

Always on the move, the family spent 1869 and 1870 migrating to Kansas and then back to the cabin in Pepin. They stayed in the cabin at the wayside for three more years, until the winter of 1873-74, when they left the area for good, crossing the ice on Lake Pepin to move to Minnesota, Iowa and finally South Dakota. Other books in the Little House series describe their lives as Laura grew up on the frontier.

Thousands of tourists from all over the country visit the Little House Wayside and the Museum in Pepin throughout the summer and attend Laura Ingalls Wilder Days, held in Pepin the second full weekend of September. The Laura Ingalls Wilder Memorial Society always holds their annual meeting the first Tuesday of February, in honor of her birthday.
Whats the secret to a long, happy and healthy life?

Brandon Thorsness, administrator at Chippewa Manor Nursing & Rehabilitation in Chippewa Falls, doesnt have one specific answer. In talking to the 68 manor residents who celebrated 90-and-older birthdays Friday, he has heard a lot of good ideas.

Some people swear by a glass of alcohol a day, some say no alcohol, some say getting good sleep and some say exercise, Thorsness said. But we hear a lot of people say a lot of laughter.

There was plenty of laughter to be had as residents and their families celebrated each of the residents, honoring them with a card and a carnation, and of course, birthday cake. Thorsness said based on last years large crowd, they ordered an extra cake this year. But they went through the extra cake pretty quickly, too.

All in all, the manor celebrated around 6,400 years of life.

Lifelong Chippewa Falls resident Elaine Fort joined the club Friday, as she celebrated her 90th birthday July 5, 2016.

My secret is to remain positive, enjoy your family and stay active, Fort said.

As long as she could, Fort was an active swimmer, did yoga and walked wherever she could. She also credits spending her winters in Florida as helping her age well.

Her daughter, Linda Salow, added one other piece of advice: You have to adapt to change.

Its true, Fort has seen a lot change in the last 90 years. She worked as assistant deputy county clerk for the courthouse for 20 years, and recalls using the first computer they ever had.

Shes learned how to work a dial telephone and a cell phone, and seen technology change quicker than she aged. But the people surrounding her Friday afternoon had stayed almost the same.

I went all the way through high school and graduated with a lot of these people whose names they called off, Fort said.

Salow said she was excited to be part of her mother and friends special day, and it was a constant reminder of how proud she is of the woman who raised her.

Part of the reason she feels shes been here is because shes friendly and helps others, Salow said. If I can be just as compassionate as my mom, Ill be happy.

Across the manors filled dining room, another daughter celebrated her parents birthday.

Bill Dresdin, originally from Eau Claire, celebrated turning 100 on Jan. 11. Still a spunky and healthy man, Dresdin boasted of receiving more than 120 birthday cards and a family gathering on Jan. 7 that saw nearly 50 people.

Dresdin said his doctor gave him a little book about the secrets to a long life, which he read every day.

Youve gotta have your family, no stress and take everything one day at a time, he said.

His daughter, Cathy, added his kindness and optimism probably helped.

I feel very fortunate to still have dad as happy and healthy as he is, she said. A positive attitude goes a long way.

It sure does. The Chippewa Manor celebrated over 6,400 years of life Friday afternoon, with resident Lorraine Thompson being honored as the oldest resident at 101 years old. Thompson was born Jan. 13, 1916, during the first term of the administration of President Woodrow Wilson.
Is the Chippewa Falls School Board smarter than a fifth-grader? How about a fourth-grader?

An attempt to get to the bottom of those questions ended in a stalemate at Thursday nights board session, as board members were challenged to a Battle of the Books by two fifth-graders, Corbin Holm and Chloe Wilson, and two fourth-graders, Gaige Nyhus and Breanne Lor, from Parkview Elementary. Three of the four students had read 10 of the 20 books included in the competition.

Parkview Librarian Dawn Totzke said the students are asked a question about a book, and the students respond with the books title and author.

In which book does the main character investigate his matriarch? was one of the questions Totzke posed. Board Member Staish Buchner had the answer to that one: Are You My Mother? by P.D. Eastman.

When the bookmarks were placed, the students correctly answered two questions, and the board answered two.

The state Battle of the Books competition will be held the last week of February. The Parkview fourth-graders will battle the fifth-graders to decide who will represent the school at state.

And, no, board members will not be allowed to participate in that contest.

Calendar gets OK

The board voted 7-0 to approve the calendar for the 2017-18 school year.

The calendar calls for Chippewa Falls Senior High School graduation on Wednesday, June 6. Board member Kathy Strecker said shes heard a lot of complaints about that.

Its hard for families. Out of town (visitors) too, she said of holding graduation on a night other than the typical Friday evening.

The calendar calls for a Christmas week vacation from Dec. 25-29, 2017.

Superintendent Heidi Taylor-Eliopoulos said she is working on a new strategic plan for the district. The current plan was from 2014-17. She said she plans to report to the community about a new plan in September.

Eliopoulos said there is a movement among state chambers of commerce to ask the Legislature to repeal the mandatory start of the school year after Sept. 1. That requirement was put in place to provide staffing for some tourism industries, but circumstances have changed, she said.

The board voted 7-0 to extend the contract of Eliopoulos, and 6-1 to raise her salary by $3,750 to $146,250 a year.

Voting in favor of the incremental pay raise were Board President Amy Mason, Strecker, Pat Allen, Pete Lehmann Jennifer Heinz and David Czech. Voting against was Buchner. He said he thought the pay increase was too small, and he praised the work she is doing.
It's been 37 years since the Coast Guard Cutter Blackthorn sank after colliding with tanker vessel Capricorn near the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.

Coast Guard honors fallen shipmates from Blackthorn tragedy

Coast Guard Cutter Blackthorn crashed near Skyway Bridge in 1980

37th anniversary memorial service for fallen crew members held yesterday

The Blackthorn lost 23 of its 50 crew members on Jan. 28, 1980, in the Coast Guard's worst peacetime disaster.

The Coast Guard honored those fallen crew members Friday during the annual memorial service of the Coast Guard Cutter Blackthorn collision.

A memorial inscribed with the names of the crew members who perished stands two miles north of the collision site.

"This is the first Blackthorn memorial ceremony I've been to," said Petty Officer 3rd Class Odlanier Gonzalez-Vega, crew member stationed at Sector St. Petersburg. "After all these years, I am proud we still take a moment to gather and reflect."

The ceremony was held at Blackthorn Memorial Park at the base of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge overlooking Tampa Bay.

It included an aerial salute by Air Station Clearwater crews, a reading of the names of Blackthorn victims and the tolling of the ships bell.

During the ceremony, crew members from Coast Guard Cutter Joshua Appleby, a 175-foot Keeper Class Coastal Buoy Tender homeported in St. Petersburg, and Coast Guard Cutter Bernard C. Webber, a 154-foot Fast Response cutter homeported in Miami, laid 23 roses to commemorate each of the fallen crew members.

"This annual ceremony commemorating the Blackthorn crew was a beautiful and solemn occasion," said Lt. Ashley Holm, crew member at Sector St. Petersburg's Waterways Management Division. "I am honored to be here and pay tribute to my fallen shipmates."

The Blackthorn collision prompted the need for the establishment of the Command and Operations School at the Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut. The school offers courses to prepare command-level officers and senior enlisted members for command duty afloat.

Additionally, the Coast Guard developed new training requirements, invested in more safety equipment and made changes to the navigational aids in and around Tampa Bay.
January 25, 2017

On Jan. 14, Iraqi and Iranian media reported that Iraqi Foreign Minister Ibrahim al-Jaafari offered to mediate between Iran and Saudi Arabia in order to overcome their disputes and restore their bilateral relations that were ruptured following the Jan. 2, 2016, attack on the Saudi Embassy in Tehran. The attack came after a series of diplomatic tensions between the two countries over incidents such as the 2015 hajj stampede in Mecca that killed more than 450 pilgrims and Saudi Arabias execution of dissident Shiite cleric Nimr al-Nimr on Jan. 2, 2016.

Jaafari confirmed these reports, saying that he has been engaged in mediation efforts since last year. Ive indeed exchanged messages between officials from the two countries, he said, according to what Reuters reported from Iranian state TV. Jaafari added, Any crisis in Saudi-Iranian relations also affects Iraq as well and vice versa.

Jaafaris mediation attempt followed official efforts by Gulf Cooperation Countries (GCC) to thaw the ice between Tehran and Riyadh and open channels of dialogue. Kuwaits Deputy Foreign Minister Khaled al-Jarallah said Dec. 1 that the GCC countries are trying to send a message to Iran on behalf of the council, inviting both countries to dialogue meetings, adding that Kuwait will be transmitting the message to Iran and that contacts with Iran are ongoing to set a convenient date to deliver that message.

On Jan. 17, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said that at least a dozen countries, including Iraq and Kuwait, have offered to mediate between the Islamic republic and the kingdom, indicating that Iran hailed these efforts and wishes to be on good terms with everyone, especially the Gulf states and Saudi Arabia. Rouhanis statement was previously echoed by Irans Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council Ali Shamkhani and Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, both wishing to renew relations with the kingdom.

Iraq offered to mediate in January 2016, notably after tensions rose between the two countries in the aftermath of the attack on the Saudi Embassy. At that time, Jaafari said, The recent feud involving Iran and Saudi Arabia led Iraq to immediately take the initiative, adding that the Iraqi Cabinet decided to react quickly in order to defuse the tension between Iran and Saudi Arabia, but to no avail. Germany attempted a mediation in February, one that also proved unsuccessful due to the lack of response on both sides.

The question is whether the time has come for mediation between Iran and Saudi Arabia. Is Iraq impartial and capable enough to influence the two countries positions, and therefore achieve a reconciliation?

The answer to this question depends on whether the two sides are willing to achieve reconciliation. In fact, both need to overcome their differences amid the current circumstances and reach a settlement  even partial  on specific matters. This has indeed taken shape in the two countries agreement to curb oil production during the OPEC meeting in Algiers on Sept. 28. This agreement resulted in the largest cut in oil production since 2008; hence the considerable price increase. Economic interests brought the two rivals to the negotiation table, yielding an unprecedented agreement in the midst of the exacerbating crisis between them.

As for the hajj stampede, head of the Iranian hajj mission Seyed Ali Qadi Askar announced Jan. 10 that he had received an invitation via Saudi Arabias consulate in New York to hold meetings to discuss plans for the 2017 hajj. Iranian hajj pilgrims were estimated at 60,000 in 2015, which is one of the largest numbers of pilgrims from a single nation, not to mention the sizable number of Iranians visiting Mecca and Medina regularly each year. For the kingdom, this represents a valuable economic profit, let alone the fact that Saudi Arabia does not wish to restrict any Islamic country from participating in the hajj to preserve its reputation in the Islamic world. Furthermore, Iran is not willing to restrict its citizens from performing the hajj as Iranian pilgrims would look for other ways to go at the expense of governmental control and supervision involving such a sensitive issue as the hajj.

As far as regional disputes, recent developments seem to be bringing the two rivals closer to reconciliation. First, Lebanon saw the formation of a Cabinet after a long period of deadlock. The Future Movement  close to Saudi Arabia and led by Prime Minister Saad Hariri, who holds dual Lebanese and Saudi citizenship  reached a political consensus with Hezbollah, the Lebanese Shiite party close to Iran. It is not unlikely that rapprochement will also be the case in Yemen and Syria, especially since the new US administration wishes to pacify the situation in the Middle East and bring about a relatively more stable status quo.

Despite the obvious change in Saudi Arabia and Irans public policies in the direction of bilateral relations, there are still some voices, particularly from the military, calling for the continuation of the cold war pitting the two countries against each other. On Jan. 14, the commander of Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in Iranian Kurdistan, Mohammad Hussein Rajabi, criticized the Iraqi Kurdistan Regional Government for allowing Saudi Arabia to open its consulate in Erbil, accusing it of espionage and conspiracy against Iran.

Iraq's religious and political diversity represents a strong political asset that could enable the country to achieve a successful mediation between Iran and Saudi Arabia. For instance, Kurdistan and Sunni parties maintain good relations with Saudi Arabia and Shiite parties have similar relationships with Iran that can be invoked by Iraqi diplomats to bring about the reconciliation.
A three-year fight to protect the voting rights of Texas minorities seems to have become one of the first targets of Donald Trumps presidential administration. The outcome could have far-reaching implications, and an interim Supreme Court ruling might only provide short-term comfort.

Within hours of Trumps inauguration, his administration requested and received a one-month delay in Tuesdays scheduled Corpus Christi federal court hearing on issues surrounding the constitutionality of the 2011 Texas voter ID law, which allowed voters to use only a handful of identifications at polling places.

The request cited the change in administrations, adding The United States requires additional time to brief the new leadership of the (Justice) Department on this case and the issues to be addressed at that hearing.

Since President Barack Obamas Justice Department led the effort against the Texas voter ID measure, revising its stance could help the state implement the controversial law, which a federal appeals court ruled discriminatory.

On Monday, the Supreme Court rejected the states appeal to review that decision. But the court indicated it might do so later, when the currently divided court could have a ninth, potentially decisive member.

The issues will be better suited for review after completion of lower court proceedings, Chief Justice John Roberts said, suggesting Mondays denial of a review may be a temporary victory for opponents of the Texas law.

Make no mistake, the fight is not over, said the Lone Star Project, a liberal Texas group fighting the law.

The voter ID case is one of two long-pending court cases that challenge efforts by Texas Republicans that many consider aimed at diluting the voter strength of the states rapidly growing Hispanic population. The other concerns the 2011 reapportionment of congressional and legislative seats.

Critics of the latter said it minimized the voting rights of minorities, who tend to vote more Democratic than Republican. While a three-judge federal court implemented an interim, fairer plan, the original case remains undecided.

On voting rights, Obamas Justice Department refused  using the Voting Rights Acts provision for pre-review of such changes  to approve the Texas law on grounds that by limiting the number of acceptable IDs for voters, it placed an undue burden on Hispanics and African-Americans and could disenfranchise up to 600,000 Texans.

But when the Supreme Court ruled in June 2013 that pre-clearance was no longer needed, Texas implemented its law, prompting litigation to block it.

At the same time, the high court upheld another section of the Voting Rights Act that bans measures designed to limit the voting clout of minorities.

Last summer, Texas suffered a significant setback when a bipartisan majority on the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled the ID laws effect was discriminatory. It sent the case back to the Corpus Christi district court to determine if it also violated the provision that bars discriminatory intent. That is the subject of the hearing, now delayed until Feb. 28.

This development enables new leaders of the Justice Department in the Trump Administration an option to switch positions at least on the constitutional question, if not on the cases as a whole, veteran Supreme Court correspondent Lyle Denniston wrote in the National Constitutional Centers Constitution Daily.

Civil rights groups expressed deeper fears. We are deeply concerned that this Justice Department is preparing to abandon its commitment to enforcement of the nations civil rights laws, said Kristen Clarke, president and executive director of the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights.

Rights groups say restrictive voter ID laws enacted in more than a dozen states since 2011 are Republican political efforts to curb voting by Democratic-leaning minorities. While the stated purpose of such laws is to prevent voter fraud, supporters have been unable to show that fraud is a problem, in Texas or elsewhere.

Texas rejects the contention of critics that such laws limit voting. However, Texas 43 percent turnout of its voting age population in November was again one of the countrys lowest.

The Supreme Court sanctioned voter ID laws in a 2008 decision on an Indiana statute. However, the authors of both the appeals court decision in the Indiana case, conservative Judge Richard Posner, and the Supreme Court verdict, retired liberal Justice John Paul Stevens, have since expressed doubts about their actions.

Both the Texas law, which limits valid IDs to seven items, and a strict North Carolina law rejected by another appeals panel are more restrictive than the Indiana law. Additional court cases are pending on other states statutes, meaning the courts ultimate verdict could have a far-reaching impact.

And while the Obama Justice Department sought wherever possible to make voting easier, signs are the Trump administrations goal may be to make it harder.
Boston Medical Center implemented a method for holding effective team meetings, according to AMA Wire.

Here are five insights into successful team meetings:

1. Each of the center's six internist practice teams meets every Friday at 8 a.m. for one hour. Practice teams consist of between six and eight physicians, nurses, medical assistants and staff.

2. Friday meetings focus on projects specific to the team, like establishing a "wait-time notification board for the waiting area," reports AMA Wire.

3. Each month, all practice teams hold a joint meeting for organization announcements and celebrations of success.

4. Charlotte Wu, MD, the center's General Internal Medicine Primary Care Clinic director, said the team meetings create collaboration among multidisciplinary team members. The meetings serve as a platform for members to "get to know each other in a more personal way, which breaks down hierarchies and silos and improves communication," she said.

5. The smaller team meetings also give every player a voice, so improvement projects actually come into fruition.

Check out the STEPS Forward module to implement effective meetings in your organization.





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Late in 2014, Drew Estate announced a partnership with Pappy & Company to produce a small batch cigar line to be distributed exclusively by Pappy & Co. The concept of this project would be to create a cigar could be paired with Pappy & Companys Van Winkle bourbon and rye products. The resulting line would be known as the Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve Barrel Fermented Cigars. The first two sizes of the Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve Barrel Fermented line would be in the form of a Robusto and Toro. In 2016, Drew Estate announced two line extensions with a 7 x 48 Churchill size and a 4 7/8 x 60 Limitada. Recently Ive had an opportunity to smoke the Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve Barrel Fermented Churchill. Not only was this an excellent cigar, but one that would also showcase Drew Estate as innovators in the cigar industry.

There are two key innovative features that went into this blend. For starters the company incorporates some of its Kentucky-grown Fire-Cured tobacco into the blend. After the Kentucky tobacco undergoes a fire curing process, it is then put into barrels where it is not simply aged, but fermented right in the barrel. The actual fire-curing and fermentation processes take place in the U.S. before the tobacco is sent to Drew Estates La Gran Fabrica in Nicaragua.

The use of Fire Cured tobacco is not new to Drew Estate as they have incorporated it into its Kentucky Fire Cured line. Most cigars utilize air curing. This where where the tobacco is hung in a barn for several weeks to remove moisture from the leaf. With Fire Cured tobacco, hardwoods are kept on continuous, low smoldering flames to remove the moisture. Typically this process is used for pipe and chewing tobacco. Fire-cured tobacco is cured quickly and it results in a smokey, camp-fire like flavor in the final product.

The barrel fermented Kentucky tobacco is incorporated used as a tapa negra wrapper over a Mexican San Andres base wrapper. The name Tapa Negra translates to black cap and this name is appropriate because the Kentucky wrapper rests on the cap of the cigar creating a segmented wrapper effect.

Without further ado, lets break down the Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve Barrel Fermented Churchill and see what this cigar brings to the table.

Blend Profile

In addition to the two wrappers found on the Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve Barrel Fermented cigar, the blend contains Nicaraguan tobaccos that were personally hand-selected by Drew Estate co-founder Jonathan Drew.

Wrapper: Kentucky Fire-Cured / Barrel Fermented Tapa Negra, Mexican San Andres Base

Binder: Nicaraguan

Filler: Nicaraguan

Country of Origin: Nicaragua (La Gran Fabrica Drew Estate)

Vitolas Available

Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve Barrel Fermented Cigars are available in three sizes limited production sizes. Each of these sizes are available in ten count boxes. The Limitada size is a vitola that is reminiscent of a Liga Privada Unico Serie Feral Flying Pig. At the time of this assessment, the The Pappy Drew Limitada is only being sold in three packs and is available as gift when consumers purchase at least one box each of the Churchill, Toro, and Robusto sizes.

Robusto: 5 1/4 x 52

Toro: 6 x 52

Churchill: 7 x 48

Limitada: 4 7/8 x 60

Appearance

The Mexican San Andres wrapper of the Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve Barrel Fermented Churchill extends from the footer and has medium brown color to it. Upon closer examination, some darker marbling can be seen on the surface. The Kentucky Tapa Negra cap extends almost two inches from the top of the cigar. It has a rich dark espresso bean color. While I didnt find the much oil on the Mexican wrapper, I did find the Tapa Negra was quite oily. The wrappers on the cigar were quite smooth. On both wrappers the veins and wrapper seams were on the thin side.

There also was a strong fire-cured aroma coming from the cigar, but this was not a surprise given fire-cured tobacco is a part of the wrapper.

The band of the Pappy Van Winkle Barrel Fermented cigar has a white background and highlighted by the iconic antique portrait of Pappy Van Winkle founder Julius Van Winkle. Above the portrait is the text PAPPY VAN WINKLES in a gold gothic style font. Below the portrait is the text FAMILY RESERVE  also in gold gothic font. Just below that text is the text PREMIUM HANDMADE CIGARS  also in gold font. The remainder of the band is highlighted by various gold adornments. The left side of the band has the Drew Estate logo surrounded by the text DREW ESTATE NICARAGUA. The right side has the Pappy Van Winkle key logo.

The back of the band has the Pappy key logo with the text PAPPY & COMPANY and Louisville KY. Just below it is the text Produced Exclusively for Pappy & Co By Drew Estate  Esteli, Nicaragua.

Preparation for the Cigar Experience

Prior to lighting the Pappy Van Winkle Barrel Fermented Churchill, I went with my usual choice of a straight cut. The cut was placed into the Tapa Negra leaf. On the dry draw, I was not surprised by the strong fire-cured campfire like note. I was also surprised to pick up a rich roasted coffee note. Overall I considered this pre-light draw to be excellent. At this point I was ready to fire up my Pappy Van Winkle Barrel Fermented Churchill and see what the smoking experience would have in store.

Flavor Profile

The start of the Pappy Van Winkle Barrel Fermented Churchill delivered a mix of mocha, cedar, and for what I will call Bourbon Sweetness. This bourbon sweetness was a compound note had a mix of charred wood, sugar cane, and caramel components. The mocha was also compound note that had both chocolate and coffee components. As the Pappy Van Winkle Barrel Fermented Churchill moved through the first third, the mocha and chocolate notes moved into the forefront while the cedar notes took to the background. On the retro-hale, I definitely picked up a mix of campfire charred notes and cedar spice.

During the first third, there was an interesting dynamic that took place. I found the mocha and bourbon sweetness varied as to which was the dominant note. The individual chocolate and coffee components of the mocha varied in intensity. Meanwhile the wood, sugar cane, and caramel components within the Bourbon Sweetness flavor also varied in intensity.

By the second third of the Pappy Van Winkle Barrel Fermented Churchill, the bourbon sweetness moved into the forefront. At times there was also a slight sour component, but this didnt have too much of a negative impact. Meanwhile the mocha notes were now in the background with the cedar notes.

Moving into the last third, I found some earth notes surfaced with the bourbon sweetness. The cedar slightly increased in intensity and I could still taste some of the mocha notes. This is the way the Pappy Van Winkle Barrel Fermented Churchill. The resulting nub was firm to the touch and cool in temperature.

Burn and Draw

The Pappy Van Winkle Barrel Fermented Churchill burned extremely well through both sections of the wrapper. The cigar maintained a straight burn line and a straight burn path. There were some touch-ups along the way, but an excessive amount was not needed. The resulting ash was light gray. This was a firm ash that came off the cigar in clean chunks. Meanwhile the burn rate and burn temperature were both ideal.

The draw to the Pappy Van Winkle Barrel Fermented Churchill was also ideal. It was not too loose, nor was it too tight.

Strength and Body

Overall the Pappy Van Winkle Barrel Fermented Churchill is a cigar that I would put as medium in terms of strength and body. While there was a slight increase in intensity of both attributes, I still found that the strength and body remained in the medium range when the cigar experience came to a close.

In terms of strength versus body, both attributes balance each other nicely with neither one of them overshadowing the other.

Final Thoughts

The Pappy Van Winkle Barrel Fermented Churchill was a highly impressive cigar by Drew Estate. I found it to deliver a very unique flavor profile  and an enjoyable one at that. Its one of the better cigars I have had to incorporate fire cured tobacco. While Drew Estate is a large tobacco company, this is a release that shows they can be agile when it comes to delivering high quality small batch releases. Most importantly, it shows the company continues to maintain a core competency when it comes to innovation. I dont drink Pappy Van Winkle, so I cannot comment how well this cigar pairs with it. What I can say is that on its own, this cigar was very enjoyable. Its a cigar I would recommend to a novice or experienced cigar enthusiast. As for myself, this is a cigar I would smoke again and its definitely worthy of a box purchase.

Summary

Key Flavors: Mocha, Bourbon Sweetness, Cedar

Burn: Excellent

Draw: Excellent

Complexity: Medium+

Strength: Medium

Body: Medium

Finish: Very Good

Rating

Assessment: 4.0-Box Worthy

Score: 92

References

News: Drew Estate Adds Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve Barrel Fermented Churchill and Pappy Drew Limitada

Price: $17.00

Source: Gifted

Brand Reference: Drew Estate
Regulars of an underground pub located in Belfast city centre say they are devastated that the venue will close today.

Yesterday lunchtime patrons at the Basement Bar, opposite the City Hall, spoke of their sorrow at its demise.

It is understood the building will be turned into a hotel.

Last orders at the hostelry will be called this evening for the final time.

For three regulars, the decision to shut the pub has come as a shock.

Friends James Privilege from Donaghadee, Anthony Burke from Lurgan and Billy McGookin from Belfast previously worked together in the Housing Executive.

They used to visit the Basement during their lunch breaks every Friday.

Yesterday they were enjoying a final drink to reminisce over old times.

"I have been coming here for over 20 years," said Anthony.

"The bar is very friendly and welcoming, and does the best food around.

"We used to meet every Friday, but this time it's to say goodbye to the bar as an old friend.

"It really is the end of an era."

Another patron, Belfast man Stephen Ritchie, said he was saddened by the pub's loss.

"I'm a civil servant and this is a great little bar to come to at lunchtime to get away from it all," he said.

"I have been coming here for the past five years and really am gutted it is closing. I don't think a new place would have the same atmosphere."
We are now halfway through the Decade of Centenaries. The Home Rule crisis, the Ulster Covenant, the Battle of Jutland, the Easter Rising and the Battle of the Somme: all these historical events have been marked, acknowledged and commemorated, some with more dissent and debate than others. But there's still another five years of the Decade of Centenaries to go.

A public discussion, organised by the Community Relations Council and the Heritage Lottery Fund, was held in the Jethro Centre in Lurgan this week. One of three planned meetings across Northern Ireland, the workshop was an opportunity for museums, libraries, councils, community groups, funding bodies and other individuals and organisations to reflect on progress made over the first five years and to anticipate the commemorations still to come.

There are many important centenaries to mark in the years up to 2023, both on the island of Ireland and beyond: the end of the First World War, the War of Independence, the foundation of the Irish Free State and, of course, the establishment of Northern Ireland itself.

It's going to be complicated and challenging and it will inevitably involve many difficult conversations. The idea of the three public meetings - in Lurgan, Belfast and Londonderry - is to allow both the public and practitioners to think ahead and get ready.

In Lurgan on Thursday morning, the event opened with two dramatic extracts from Kabosh Theatre Company. "Elizabeth Corr", by Maria McManus, was part of the Short Strand community project to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising.

As an old woman, Corr talks about the events of that extraordinary weekend, her experiences on returning home and her hopes for the future of Belfast.

"July 1st 1916", by Seth Linder, was originally commissioned to be staged in Shankill Library for the Shankill Stories community project. It recounts the story of Mrs Dowell, a local woman, who lost seven sons at the Battle of the Somme. The play consists of two reflections by this stoical mother and her eldest son as they reflect on the horrors of war.

It was interesting that the event began in an engaging, theatrical manner, because it's all too easy to approach the Decade of Centenaries with great trepidation, as a source of potential controversy and, consequently, something to dread.

Jacqueline Irwin, of the Community Relations Council, said that people were sometimes concerned about engaging with these fractured parts of history, fearing that to explore them too deeply could impact on the ability to maintain a shared future.

So, the function of discussion events like the one held in Lurgan was to provide reassurance, she said, as well as to build confidence and capacity.

As Paul Mullan, of the Heritage Lottery Fund, pointed out: "There are not two histories, but a multi-layered, complex and ultimately enjoyable history for people to discover."

This should be promoted, said Mullan, and people should be asked, "to open themselves up to history and see what they find".

"We are halfway through the decade and now we are really beginning to hear each other," said Deirdre MacBride, of the Community Relations Council. "It's about listening in a respectful way and taking stock of what we're learning.

"We have the anniversaries of some very challenging times ahead, which led to the formation of Northern Ireland and the Irish Free State. Today is also an opportunity to acknowledge the work done by museum services, local councils and grassroots groups."

At the centre of the Decade of Centenaries is a set of four key principles: start from the historical facts; recognise the implications and consequences of what happened; understand that different perceptions and interpretations exist; and show how events and activities can deepen understanding of this period.

"We think it's important that the principles are tested in the context of our experience," said Mullan, "and in anticipation of the next period in which we may have a multiplicity of anniversaries that are within living memory." He pointed out that in assisting people with dealing with the recent past, it was important to take account of hurt, trauma, loss and the challenge of political change.

"As we have seen here with Kabosh, the arts are a perfect vehicle for capturing both the immediacy of traumatic past events and the simple power of the human experiences behind them. That tends to make people a little less disposed to hasty judgments," said Damian Smyth from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, another agency also engaged in the Decade.

The historian Eamon Phoenix gave a short, but compelling talk about Ireland in the period from 1917 to 1923, providing a historical context for the discussion. He described the "afterglow of 1916", the rise of Sinn Fein and the way that "republicanism swept the land like a prairie fire" in 1917.

He reflected on the need to look beyond our own shorelines to see the bigger picture in Europe at that time. It was to become a post-war world, with new borders being drawn, great changes ahead and "the Irish question" still to be solved. Lloyd George spoke of "struggling with a series of Ulsters all over Europe". Phoenix also discussed the War of Independence, partition, and the shocking sectarian violence which erupted in Belfast in 1922.

"People have long memories," he said, "and the wounds are raw. Compared to the first half-decade we have looked at, this one will be more challenging."

Phoenix sits on the Taoiseach's expert advisory group on centenary commemorations in Dublin and he said that there was "a sense of 'put it all out there' and let the people and the general public mull over it".

It was, he said, all about "seeking the many-sided nature of the truth".

Following the speakers, participants were given the opportunity to divide into small groups to discuss what they had heard, to share experiences and to plan for the future. Afterwards, spokespeople for each group fed back the responses.

Emer Lyttle, of Co-operation Ireland, talked of the need for shared history education and the importance of reaching out to the most marginalised. "You can't force education and you can't force progress," she said.

"The more voices of people's experience, the better," said Fiona Byrne, of National Museums Northern Ireland, adding that "we need to get more people involved".

Mary McAnulty, of Metis Initiatives CIC, said that people were aware of the "murkiness" and violence of some of the imminent anniversaries in the Decade of Centenaries and she spoke of the need to address the idea of shame, as well as the benefits of linking our own stories to wider, international stories, in order to make sense of them.

"Heritage can be very dangerous," admitted Paul Mullan, after the event was over. "The past can throw up so many pitfalls. But that's why it's really good to bring out resources that people at community level can use. The past doesn't need to be a fearful thing. It can get people talking."
Emily Watson says: "I had a dream last night. I dreamt that I was about to go on stage and I didn't know the lines and I didn't even know what play I was supposed to be doing... I was running round the theatre surreptitiously looking for a copy of the play to find out exactly what we were doing.

"And every time I walked down a backstage corridor, it turned into a forest, and I woke up at two o'clock and thought 'Phew!... thank God that was just a dream.' And then I fell asleep and went straight back into the same dream. It's an actor's dream we have all the time, but it taps into a basic fear that I am going to be very exposed."

This impromptu excursion into Watson's nightmares was prompted by our discussion about her latest role. She plays Dr Yvonne Carmichael, an eminent scientist and a "pathologically law-abiding" wife and mother, who finds herself in the dock of the Old Bailey, in Bafta-winning Amanda Coe's BBC adaptation of Louise Doughty's best-selling novel Apple Tree Yard.

Carmichael is a geneticist and, when we met her in the first episode of Coe's adaptation, she was heading to the Houses of Parliament for a routine appearance before a government committee, helping it to pronounce on recommended limitations on cloning technology.

"It's the same debate we've been having for years," she says, secretly scornful of the limitations of MPs' knowledge of her specialist subject.

What this highly self-controlled woman doesn't herself know is that before the morning is out she will be enjoying hot, animal sex with a mysterious stranger in the Chapel of St Mary Undercroft, beneath the Palace of Westminster - an act so uncharacteristic that Carmichael returns home and stares incredulously at her reflection in the mirror.

The lover whose name she doesn't even inquire about until later (in her late-night diary, written while her husband sleeps downstairs, she refers to him as 'X', as in the X chromosome "or the most innocent of kisses") is called Mark Costley.

He is a man with an opaque occupation (a civil servant? A spy?) - played with suitably vulpine charm by Ben Chaplin. Either way, this compulsive dalliance will lead Carmichael to the dock in a murder trial - the less revealed about which here, the better.

"It's particularly important that she was a scientist, because she's spent her whole life being rational," Doughty tells me.

"And now through one rash act, her life is spinning out of control."

But back to Watson's nightmare, and her "trepidation about being that exposed", because not for the first time in her career, the role requires what television continuity announcers are apt to call 'scenes of a sexual nature'.

"When I first read the script I thought 'really?' It made me very nervous," says the actress, who turned 50 this month.

"But then I went to meet Jess (director Jessica Hobbs) and she completely turned me around. I feel that something like this has come at a time in my career when the roles for women of my age in movies and television are smaller and smaller and smaller, and this is about a fully grown-up woman who is powerfully sexual and has a complex life. Those women aren't really represented on screen."

Even so, Watson was clear about certain boundaries. "The first thing I said to Jess was that I wouldn't do any nudity," she says. "It's not that I'm a prude or vain it's just that I'm way too old to be naked on screen."

And what might have been a demanding shoot was made far easier by the casting of her old friend Ben Chaplin (The Wipers Times, Snowden) as Costley.

"One thing I felt Ben has done with the part of Costley is that he has taken away any sense of it being sleazy," says Watson. "So I hope the audience will fall for him in the same way Yvonne does. So when things turn, it becomes as much as a shock to them as it is to her.

"When you're asked to do those kinds of scenes when you're 22 there's just a lot of fumbling and hoping and just wishing they'd say 'cut'.

"But when you've got two actors who've been round the block a bit, we just sat down and discussed it point by point and had a plan, because we wanted it to seem real, and like a progression.

"I've known Ben for a long time and we were very honest about it... straightforward... and it was fun."

Watson mentions being 22, but it was at the age of 28 that the London-born actress, then a virtual unknown outside the National Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company, stepped into the lead role - after Helena Bonham Carter "got cold feet" - in one of the most controversial films of the 1990s, Lars von Trier's Breaking the Waves.

The proto-Dogme 95 movie would win Watson an Oscar nomination for her very first film role.

She played a young woman in a remote Scottish community who submits to sexual degradation out of love for her paralysed husband and because she believes in God's will - a role that required nudity and graphic sex scenes.

"I wasn't comfortable, but I did it because I wanted to give myself completely to this role," she says.

"I was very naive - I'd never made a film so I didn't know why this was different from other things, but evidently it was. It just completely put me on the map. I was an actress in demand after that."

Despite a lot of what she calls "come hither... come to Hollywood and earn a lot of money", Watson sought out interesting roles (opposite Daniel Day-Lewis in The Boxer, as cellist Jacqueline du Pre in Hilary and Jackie, and in Robert Altman's Gosford Park), while turning down Amelie (which had specifically been written with Watson in mind). "I don't speak French," she says. "And I just had an instinctive feeling that I would make a t** of myself."

Then there was the Olivier Award for her stage performance in Uncle Vanya at the Donmar, and a Bafta for Appropriate Adult, in which she played an inexperienced charity worker employed to sit in with serial killer Fred West (played by Dominic West) during his police interviews, while The Politician's Husband in 2013, opposite David Tennant, showed that she was still up to sexually explicit parts.

"These roles just come my way really... I don't seek them out," Watson says.

"Once you done it once people think 'Oh maybe she'll do it again'. And I think you have to be a bit of an idiot really - just jump all four feet in and regret it later and have that ability to forget."

All the same, Watson believes that there is a political point here.

"I think there's a lot of debate going on about the presence of women in film and television and pieces like this are becoming more common," she says.

"The most loyal audience for TV is women and they are really interested in watching women like these on TV. The cultural topic of sexually powerful women in their fifties is now open for business."

Apple Tree Yard continues tomorrow on BBC1 at 9pm
The Great British Bake Off won't be back exactly as we know it when it begins its stint at Channel 4, but viewers can take heart in the fact its sister show, The Great Pottery Throw Down, is returning to the BBC, with Sarah Cox once again on hosting duties.

The series is made by Love Productions, the company behind Bake Off, but Cox admits she didn't know what kind of reaction to expect when it first aired in 2015.

"I knew it had a good pedigree behind it, but it's quite overwhelming just how much people have taken to it," says the radio and TV presenter, who describes the experience of being back at Middleport Pottery, where the series is filmed, as "a genuine real joy".

"[It's] so exciting. It's nice to be up in Stoke-on-Trent; I absolutely love it there. You see the gas kilns in the distance as you get off the train, it's lovely," remarks Bolton-born Cox.

"And all the crew, who work on so much telly, say it's genuinely one of the most lovely shows to work on because it's got a really good heart to it."

Series two will see another 10 plucky amateur potters, ready to take to the wheel and compete to become the champion of clay.

"We've got such a wonderful mix of people," says 42-year-old Cox. "We've got a mortgage advisor, cage fighter, male model, housewife, somebody who works at the Quaker House; a really lovely mix of people, but all bought together through their love of clay."

She's in no doubt they'll be friends for life after "what we've put them through", saying "it's a real bonding experience".

The success, of course, lies in the casting, and Cox admits it takes "a long time" to find the right mix of people.

"You want all the different personalities in there, and the different backgrounds as well. Obviously, we want people to think of pottery as being something anybody can take up, no matter what your age or your background."

Overseeing their progress are two judges, master potter Keith Brymer Jones and ceramic artist Kate Malone, who task the potters with three creative challenges each episode, designed to test skills and showcase craftmanship.

"We have guest judges this time as well," adds Cox, including ceramic designer Emma Bridgewater, Paul Cummins, who created the breathtaking display of ceramic poppies at the Tower of London in 2014 and, perhaps surprisingly, comedian Johnny Vegas.

"He was Kate's pupil when she was tutoring at a polytechnic," explains Cox.

"He came and judged the throw down and he threw for us, and then the guys had to repeat what he did and he was absolutely fantastic.

"It was a real treat for the potters as well, because he actually began in comedy with throwing stuff on stage at the wheel, adding beer instead of water. This time we used water!"

On paper, the show might not sound emotionally wrought, but just as The Great British Bake Off is edited to induce heart-stopping moments, so too is this - and it usually involves the "bloomin' kiln".

"We're slaves to it!" says former model Cox, who's also a mum-of-three, to Lola, 12, Isaac, eight, and six-year-old Renee. "People have their plans but when the nerves are thrown in there and they're up against the clock, it all goes out the window sometimes.

"We have disasters, but equally we did have moments where someone had a completely disastrous start and then they really rose from the flames and pulled it out the bag, so there's some really uplifting bits as well."

Cox, who started out on TV in The Girlie Show and The Big Breakfast in the Nineties, is always on hand to lighten the mood if necessary.

"I sometimes try to make them laugh because we're not saving lives here, we're making something out of clay. It can get incredibly intense but I try and loosen it up a little bit, and remind them to breathe."

As for the innuendos the show's become synonymous with, Cox says: "Funnily enough, the language you use in clay is saucy enough, they're not actually innuendos. I think it would be quite annoying if I was doing a knowing look to camera and a bit of a wink because we're talking about this stuff all the time."

While promoting series one, Cox said the programme had inspired her to try pottery herself.

So has she embraced it?

"No, have I 'eck! Though I'd still love to," she admits. "I did take Lola to Kate's house, where she's got part of her studio, so that was a real treat. Lola absolutely loved it, so if anything, it might be Lola who comes through as the family potter."

Likewise, Cox hasn't taken her art exam, as previously pledged.

"No, but I'd love to get round to it!" she retorts with a laugh. "I've just been so busy. I went straight onto the BBC Two show Too Much TV, and then there's been loads of radio, so it's been super busy. but eventually it would be nice to get 'round to it."

With so much to manage, Cox is the first to credit her "very nice husband" for his support (she's been married to advertising executive Ben Cyzer since 2013).

"In a marriage, that's what you do, isn't it? One's got to step up when the other one's working, so if he's got a work trip away, I hold the fort, and vice versa," she explains.

"And I've got supportive in-laws as well, which is nice. But the kids do miss me. There's a lot of FaceTime happening."

They might miss their mum, but she insists the kids aren't impressed by her day job.

"I'm just Mum, really. I'm the one who shouts at them and makes them brush their teeth," says Cox. "I wish I did get star treatment at home, but it's quite the opposite!"

The Great Pottery Throw Down returns to BBC Two on Thursday, February 2, 8pm
As thousands of primary school pupils across Northern Ireland prepare to receive the results of their transfer tests this morning, the caring headmaster of one west Belfast primary school has written a touching letter of encouragement to his young pupils

In his letter to his charges as they nervously await the potentially life-changing news, Paul McCabe, headmaster of St Oliver Plunkett's PS on the Glen Road, wrote: "On Saturday morning the postman will bring news of your Transfer Grade. I know that you are nervous. I understand that you are apprehensive of your grade, but I just want to let you know one thing: we are so proud of you. We are proud for a thousand reasons; it is in every conversation with you, every laugh shared, every learning experience, every assembly, every door opened, every thank you said, every report back from visitors about you and the list could go on.

"If you think we are delighted with you, think about just how much your parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles are proud of you and how much they love you.

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"Yes, for you, right now in this present moment Saturday is important to you but you have to know that you can never be measured by a grade, the love people have for you cannot be measured by a standardised score."

And the headmaster had a powerful message for pupils' mothers and fathers.

"Mums and Dads, I'm sure you are worried about Saturday too, but as I have said to you in the past, you can remember the very moment your child was placed in your arms for the very first time - and it really wasn't that long ago.

"On Saturday, I know that whatever arrives through the letterbox you will hug them, tell them you love them, and probably have to spend a few quid too."

Mr McCabe signs off: "All the best, boys and girls (and Mums and Dads too)."
The Stroke Association has said the failure to address the postcode lottery of stroke services here could cost lives

Efforts to improve failing stroke services in Northern Ireland have suffered a major setback following the collapse of Stormont.

The Stroke Association has said the failure to address the postcode lottery of stroke services here could cost lives.

A public consultation on reform of stroke services has been postponed indefinitely as politicians prepare for a snap Assembly election. The charity has hit out at the delay, claiming lives are being lost, while others are being left with life-changing disabilities as a result of failings in stroke services.

Health bosses were due to carry out a consultation on stroke services last year. However, this was postponed in anticipation of the results of the Bengoa Report - a major review of the health service in Northern Ireland.

It was hoped the consultation would get under way next month but the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) told the Stroke Association last week that the process cannot happen now due to the situation at Stormont.

The 2016 Stroke National Audit found that Northern Ireland has no seven-day stroke therapy service, poor access to specialist stroke units and inadequate rehabilitation and long-term support in the community.

Stroke survivors also face indefinite waits for review appointments with specialist doctors. Barry Macaulay, director of the Stroke Association in Northern Ireland, said: "Despite the substantial progress which has been made and the many dedicated health professionals in Northern Ireland, our stroke services are lagging behind the rest of the UK.

"This is leading to avoidable stroke-related deaths and disability. The news that the long awaited public consultation on stroke services has been postponed is extremely worrying."

An HSCB spokesperson said it is committed to improving stroke services.

"The HSCB and PHA are working very closely with a wide range of stakeholders, including the Department of Health and the voluntary sector, to progress the reform of stroke services as a matter of priority in line with the Minister's vision.

"It is important that a wide range of stakeholders, service users and HSC staff are involved in co-designing the new model of care.

"The HSCB and PHA will therefore be further engaging with the community on the shaping of the new model over the next few months to be followed by a formal public consultation on the final proposals.

"There are clear opportunities to improve stroke services and the outcomes for stroke survivors in the North of Ireland and we are firmly committed to taking this important work forward in partnership with patients, families, partner organisations and the wider community."
In secret, behind locked gates, our Nation's Oldest City dumped a landfill in a lake (Old City Reservoir), while emitting sewage in our rivers and salt marsh. Organized citizens exposed and defeated pollution, racism and cronyism. We elected a new Mayor. We're transforming our City -- advanced citizenship. Ask questions. Make disclosures. Demand answers. Be involved. Expect democracy. Report and expose corruption. Smile! Help enact a St. Augustine National Park and Seashore. We shall overcome!
The 72-year-old, who cannot be named to protect the identity of the two sisters and a brother he abused, was handed a six-year sentence

A Belfast man who sexually abused three siblings over an eight-year period has been jailed.

The 72-year-old, who cannot be named to protect the identity of the two sisters and a brother he abused, was handed a six-year sentence.

The pensioner was told by Judge Geoffrey Miller QC that he will serve half his sentence in prison followed by a three-year period on probation when he is released.

Yesterday, Belfast Crown Court heard that the defendant - who was in a relationship with their grandmother - used to bring one of his young victims to work with him on a Saturday morning, where he would abuse her on a regular basis while playing.

He initially denied a host of sexual offences, but appeared in court after admitting six counts of indecent assault against the siblings over a period spanning from 1998 to 2005. Each of the children were under the age of 10 when they were targeted by their grandmother's partner.

Judge Miller said his admission vindicated his victims and spared them the trauma of giving evidence in court.

Crown prosecutor Laura Ivers revealed all the abuse occurred in Downpatrick - mainly in the victims' grandmother's home.

The defendant began abusing the oldest sibling, who the court heard "spent a lot of time with her grandmother".

The girl was sexually assaulted by the defendant both in her grandmother's house and in the man's place of work from the ages of six to 10.

Her younger sister was abused from the ages of six to eight. Many of his cases of abuse occurred when he was babysitting for his partner. The prosecutor said these incidents occurred "every time he had the opportunity".

Also abused was their brother, who regarded the defendant as a father figure. He was abused once by his granny's partner when he was aged around six or seven, who told him what occurred was a "wee secret" between them.

The alarm was initially raised in 2005 when the male victim alerted his mother to the defendant's behaviour towards his sisters.

No official complaint was made at that time, however each of the siblings subsequently revealed what happened to them.

When the defendant was arrested, he initially denied claims made by the two sisters and brother. However, he later pleaded guilty to six counts of indecent assault. Defence barrister Ken McMahon QC told the court his client came before the court with an otherwise clear criminal record.
A Portstewart man lifted his 70-year-old mother out of her wheelchair and carried her into a Coleraine bank to highlight access issues.

Mark McGregor (35) is now calling on Halifax to provide a ramp at its branch at The Diamond.

Mark said his mum Sylvia Simpson, who lives in the town, wanted to open a new account but was told she would need to make the 60-mile round trip to Ballymena to do so because of the accessibility situation at the local branch.

To highlight the issue he went to the Coleraine Halifax, lifted his mother out of her wheelchair and took her inside.

Mark, who is her carer, told the Belfast Telegraph his mother wished him to speak on her behalf about what happened.

Because of the access problems, wheelchair users have to ring a special bell outside and staff then come out and conduct business in the open air.

Halifax has said the absence of a ramp is down to the fact the building has listed status.

"They keep saying it is because it is a listed building but I don't think that is the law, though," Mark said.

"This is a pedestrian area, there are no space issues.

"Sometimes the bell doesn't work or you have to wait a long time for someone to come out.

"You would be placed in a queue.

"They would wait until all people inside have been seen to before they would come out - it doesn't seem to be a priority.

"And all the business is done outside, which has security implications. There is no shelter and the person gets soaked, obviously, if it is raining."

He added the situation "might discourage inclusion" of wheelchair users.

He said: "There are currently steep, old-fashioned steps at the branch. Even a woman with a pram would suffer. I would ask the Halifax to install reasonable access.

"Some local businesses may not have the money for that, but a bank? I think they can find the money for that."

He said his mother had now been sorted out with a new account, which she needed in connection with her care package.

"I carried her in. Originally the staff said we should go to Ballymena, so that is why I made a stand and carried her in," he explained.

"She was obviously self-conscious about it but she is glad it happened and ended well. I had to carry her in and find a seat on the far side and plop her down and then go out and get the wheelchair."

On its website, Halifax states: "At some branches steps are unavoidable and a 'call assistance' bell system has been installed so that a member of staff can be called.

"There are some locations where you may find access more difficult due to such as the layout of the premises or planning permission refusal. We record and review these locations on a regular basis."

A Halifax spokeswoman said: "We are aware of issues accessing the Halifax Coleraine branch and apologise for the inconvenience this caused Mrs Simpson.

"We have previously applied for the relevant permissions to make alterations to the listed building, which would have enabled wheelchair access to the branch, but these were declined.

"We are currently pursuing additional options to improve accessibility in the near future."
Ian Paisley says strong unionism is more important than ever after Taoiseach Enda Kenny's shock announcement that he would consider a coalition with Sinn Fein.

The Fine Gael leader stunned his own colleagues with his dramatic shift in position on Gerry Adams's party, less than a year after saying it "wasn't fit for government".

But this week Mr Kenny reacted to a change in Sinn Fein's stance about its must-have position as the major player in any coalition. The shift was signalled by deputy leader Mary Lou McDonald when she said she wants to be in government and a "conversation" needs to be had between now and the next election.

Mr Kenny, who has been leader of Fine Gael for 15 years, has always maintained there was no way his party would work with Sinn Fein. But asked whether this might change in light of Ms McDonald's comments, he replied: "I said I wouldn't do business with Fianna Fail so, depending on the result you gave as a member of the electorate, politicians have to work with the result. So Sinn Fein seem to be converted now to a position of changing their stance."

He later said Sinn Fein have "a long journey to go".

A number of senior Fine Gael sources were shocked by Mr Kenny's inconsistency, with one saying: "This is ridiculous stuff. I can't understand why he would open up this can of worms."

And politicians in Northern Ireland reacted strongly too, with Mr Paisley saying the only answer was for unionists to vote for the DUP.

"The thirst for power and holding on to power is always unquenchable, so I think ultimately if Sinn Fein is the largest party in the South of Ireland then Fine Gael will end up doing a deal with them," said the DUP MP.

"This is clearly Sinn Fein policy, to be the All-Ireland party. And if that's the policy, then we need to make sure that unionism is held up as being the largest party in Northern Ireland.

"Unionists must calculate that the only way to ensure that our ideology and strategy and policies prevail is by supporting the only unionist party that can lead Northern Ireland."

Mr Paisley also said the change in position from Fine Gael shows a "public abandonment" of any link with the SDLP.

"The SDLP leader must feel absolutely devastated this morning in the wake of comments that signal Enda Kenny is willing to speak to Sinn Fein, with a view to doing a deal with Sinn Fein," he added.

Ulster Unionist leader Mike Nesbitt said: "For many years we have had a totally unacceptable position from the Irish Government that was 'do as I say, not as I do'.

"When we brought forward the Belfast Agreement in 1998, we promoted democracy and exclusively peaceful means over wholesale slaughter on our streets. In doing so, we realised the difficult challenge of finding ways of working with parties of different philosophies.

"What we did not contemplate was attempting to gain party political advantage from power-sharing, it would be disappointing if that was what was motivating this potential change in policy."

Sinn Fein said: "The Sinn Fein position in relation to entering coalition government is a matter for the party's ard fheis. This issue is a topic of ongoing debate among the membership, from the leadership to the grassroots. This is healthy for a growing party such as ours and it is a conversation that the leadership is encouraging. It is a conversation that we need to have. However, any decision to change the current position can only be taken by the membership at an ard fheis."

The SDLP declined to comment.
The DUP's Lord Morrow has joked about the botched RHI scheme which was set to cost the Northern Ireland taxpayer almost 500m.

The DUP MLA and party leader Arlene Foster were in Omagh on Friday to lodge papers for the forthcoming snap election, which was brought in the wake of the Renewable Heating Incentive scandal.

As the DUP members posed for pictures one photographer, in encouraging the politicians to smile remarked about the weather and it being a "lovely sunny day".

"It's hot. Yes, the boilers are all working," Lord Morrow responded laughing.

Mrs Foster replied: "Stop it, stop."

The exchange was filmed by a BBC cameraman.

The DUP has been contacted for a response.

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The Renewable Heating Incentive has been described as the biggest financial scandal in the history of devolved government.

Unlike a similar scheme in England, there was no cap on the payments meaning many businesses profited from the scheme.

Flaws in the scheme were identified in June 2015, however, caps were not introduced until the following November, during which period there was a spike in applications.

The inquiry into the 1billion RHI scheme is to open on February 1, chaired by Sir Patrick Coghlin.

Westminster's Treasury department is set to cover 660million of the scheme's cost, with Stormont and the Northern Ireland taxpayer landed with the remaining 490m.

Timeline: How Renewable Heat Incentive unfolded

November 2012 - Arlene Foster, then Enterprise Minister, announces the Renewable Heat Incentive scheme for businesses.

October 2013 - A whistleblower emails Mrs Foster to express concerns over the scheme.

Autumn 2013 - The woman is referred by Mrs Foster to officials from her Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, and she urges them to address the problems.

May 2014 - The whistleblower emails again, after the civil servants appear to do nothing. She explicitly outlines how the scheme was being abused, was paying out exorbitant sums of money, and could not be ignored any longer.

December 2014 - The scheme is extended to domestic customers by Mrs Foster.

November 2015 - With the realisation the funding available for applicants is uncapped, Stormont tightens the rules.

But a massive late surge of 900 applications is received before changes can be made.

January 2016 - Another whistleblower civil servant tells the Executive the scheme is being abused.

February 6 - New Enterprise Minister Jonathan Bell (above) makes a shock announcement that the RHI scheme to be scrapped.

February 9 - Michael Doran of Action Renewables warns it will force renewables from "boom to bust."

June - Auditors begin investigating concerns.

July 5 - A damning Audit Office report states a farmer will make 1m of government money just for heating an empty shed. It reveals that more than 1 billion of public money will be paid to Northern Ireland-based businesses by 2036 after they installed new appliances under the RHI scheme.

October - Stormont's Public Accounts Committee (PAC) call the mishandling of the RHI scheme "one of the biggest scandals" since devolution. SDLP Assembly member Daniel McCrossan tells officials from government utility regulator OFGEM, which administered the scheme: "It was very clear the department was asleep at the wheel but I am horrified that you too were asleep at the wheel in relation to this."

November - The Public Accounts Committee is told that a 405m hole will have to be plugged over the 20-year lifetime of the RHI.

Dr Andrew McCormick (above), permanent secretary for the Economy Department, says he can't think of any government scheme being worse value for money.

December 2016

12 December: First Minister Arlene Foster says she won't quit over the fiasco following allegations that she did not act appropriately when concerns were first raised about the scheme. It also emerges the brother of a DUP special advisor and a Ferrari showroom have benefited from the error-ridden scheme.

13 December: UUP leader Mike Nesbitt claims to have uncovered the "smoking gun" of Arlene Foster's involvement in the decision-making process in connection with the flawed RHI scheme.

14 December: The SDLP says it will table a motion of no confidence to exclude Arlene Foster as First Minister. Sinn Fein says it won't back the motion. Meanwhile the UUP says the UK Government can no longer ignore the "national scandal".

The DUP's Nigel Dodds hits out at a "scurrilous attempt" to blame Arlene Foster for the botched energy scheme. The party releases what it says is a copy of the 2013 email sent from the whistleblower to Mrs Foster, saying that it raised no specific concerns about RHI.

15 December: Arlene Foster says she has nothing to hide from a BBC interview with former DUP minister Jonathan Bell, who vowed to tell the truth about the scandal, adding the revelations will end his political career.

Jonathan Bell claims DUP advisers attempted to delay the closure of the scheme in its original and generous format. He also said attempts were made to remove references to the Finance Department and Arlene Foster in records. The claims were denied.

16 December: Deputy first Minister Martin McGuinness calls for the DUP leader to stand aside from her role as First Minister while a full investigation is carried out into the scheme. The DUP rejects the call.

19 December: Arlene Foster faced a motion of no confidence as the devolved assembly was recalled for a special sitting to discuss the growing political crisis in the run-up to Christmas. The First Minister apologised for failing to put in place cost controls, but defended her role. The motion of no confidence failed on a cross-community vote.

January 2017:

13 January: Sinn Fein outline how an inquiry should be conducted with the first minister standing aside to allow for a preliminary report to be made in four weeks. A full report would then be published in three months time.

16 January: Martin McGuinness's resignation and Sinn Fein's refusal to nominate a deputy First Minister over Arlene Foster's refusal to stand aside leads to the collapse of the institutions and an election being called.

January 18: Economy Department civil service head Andrew McCromick tells the Stormont PAC insider information that the scheme was to close may have had a significant impact on the 490m overspend. He also said he believed a DUP spad "exerted influence" in keeping the scheme open, but insisted he had no evidence to back it up. That adviser, Andrew Crawford, rejected he attempted to keep it open.
Michelle O'Neill is facing calls to step aside as Sinn Fein's leader in Northern Ireland, and from any future Executive role, over revelations about her part in the 'cash for ash' scandal.

New documents have revealed the Department of Agriculture ran 58 workshops to promote the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) under the leadership of Mrs O'Neill during her time as Agriculture Minister. She is expected to be positioned as Deputy First Minister by her party after the March 2 elections.

This week the Mid Ulster MLA claimed she had no responsibility for the controversial RHI scheme, and directed blame solely at the DUP.

But seminars organised by Mrs O'Neill's department stressed the financial benefits of the programme throughout its existence - even pushing the scheme to potential participants as late as October 29, 2015, during the now acknowledged 'spike' period in applications.

The Department of Agriculture presentations to promote RHI included documents from the then Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, and a DETI official even spoke at its 'spike period' event.

Ulster Unionist MLA Doug Beattie said he was stunned by the revelations, and demanded Mrs O'Neill step aside from her role as Sinn Fein leader in Northern Ireland and any potential future role in the Executive until vital questions were answered.

He also insisted she should play no part in the running of any RHI inquiry.

"I would say very strongly to Michelle O'Neill, you have made a very serious mistake here because in the middle of the spike, when it was just weeks from closing down, your department was holding a seminar to say how financially wonderful it was," Mr Beattie said. "We all, quite rightly, pointed the finger at Arlene and said 'step aside pending an inquiry'. Now people need to point that finger just as strongly at Michelle O'Neill.

"She should not be sitting in the Executive Office after the election with this cloud hanging over her. She should consider her position in her party going into an election. And vitally, it was one of her own minsters, Mairtin O'Muilleoir, who called for the inquiry, and she must not have any part in overseeing it."

Other developments include the fact that many of the Department of Agriculture presentations took place at its College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE), which runs six RHI-funded boilers across three campuses.

A number of its workshops included talks by Tom Forgrave, a poultry industry representative and founding member of new lobby group the Renewable Heat Association for Northern Ireland (RHANI). The Ballymoney farmer was part of the October 2015 'spike period' presentation at the CAFRE college campus in Greenmount, Co Antrim. He spoke to two groups of farmers on the subject of 'Heat from Biomass'.

The seminar also included talks by Department of Agriculture representatives on 'Renewable Payback Times'.

And crucially, just three weeks before the scheme closed on November 19, 2015, two talks were also given by a DETI official about the financial benefits of RHI. A 2013 Department of Agriculture presentation on RHI, taken down from the department's website, has since been supplied to the Belfast Telegraph.

It shows the department organised a presentation for farmers before the scheme launched.

One department official advised potential participants payments would continue for 20 years. He also presented a table on the different levels of payments available, while another department official used a DETI presentation to show farmers the financial benefits.

Mr Beattie said: "There are crucial questions to be asked - did the Department of Agriculture know there were problems before the spike? If they did, why did they hold a seminar which talked about the great financial benefits? Did Department of Agriculture officials know it was going to close within a matter weeks? If they did, why did they carry on selling it? And if they didn't know, why and how didn't they, particularly as a DETI official spoke about the financial benefits during this presentation which they organised?"

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood joined calls for full transparency from Sinn Fein. "These revelations demonstrate that Sinn Fein are yet to come clean on how involved they were in the RHI scandal," he said.

"They show that during the period of the infamous spike, Michelle O'Neill's department were telling farmers to 'get in quick'. If we're not allowing Arlene Foster to hide behind civil servants, then we can't allow her to do so either. Michelle O'Neill is also silent when explaining why Sinn Fein failed to act. If Michelle O'Neill is sincere when rowing in behind the opposition and calling for full transparency from the DUP, then Sinn Fein must open themselves up to full transparency.

"I challenge Sinn Fein to publish all its records and actions on the 'cash for ash scandal'."

Last night Mrs O'Neill denied any wrongdoing. She said: "When I was Agriculture Minister my department was involved in promotional events around the Renewable Heat Incentive, which was run by the then Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment. My department promoted a wide range of grant schemes for farmers, most run by the EU, some by the Department of the Environment and some run by Arlene Foster's department (DETI), as well as our own schemes.

"I did not attend any of these events. There was widespread knowledge of the RHI scheme among MLAs, the energy industry and the media as it was well publicised. At that time there were no particular concerns about it. When Sinn Fein became aware of the concerns around the scheme we took decisive action to end it in the interests of the public purse, despite the objections of the SDLP and UUP, who voted to keep it open."
Members of the union Unite will walk out from February 5-7, and again for three days from February 9

British Airways cabin crew are to stage a further six days of strikes next month in a dispute over pay.

Members of the union Unite will walk out from February 5-7, and again for three days from February 9.

The union is in dispute over members of BA's so-called mixed fleet, who joined the airline after 2010 and are on worse pay rates than other staff, Unite says.

The crew went on strike last week, but the airline said only a small number of flights had to be cancelled.

BA said: "We have flown all customers to their destinations during the previous strikes by mixed fleet and we will ensure this happens again. We will publish more details on Tuesday once we have finalised our contingency plans.

"Our pay offer for mixed fleet crew is consistent with deals agreed with Unite for other British Airways' colleagues. It also reflects pay awards given by other companies in the UK."
The Queen arrives at the Sainsbury Centre at the University of East Anglia in Norwich to visit the Fiji exhibition

The Queen arrives at the Sainsbury Centre at the University of East Anglia in Norwich

The Queen has marvelled at a dazzling exhibition of Fijian artefacts which had her reminiscing about her past trips to the South Pacific nation.

From the moment the Queen arrived at the University of East Anglia, she entered the world of Fiji, with two warriors guarding her red carpet and others beating out a welcome on drums.

The Duke of Edinburgh was scheduled in error to attend the event, Buckingham Palace said, but it is understood he was out and about on the Sandringham Estate.

Fiji: Art & Life In The Pacific showcased the Commonwealth country's sculptures, textiles and ceramics, alongside ivory and shell regalia.

Having visited Fiji a number of times, the Queen was well versed with some of its customs and as she was taken on her tour appeared fascinated by the exhibits and asked a number of questions.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will meet with Theresa May in Ankara

Theresa May has arrived back in Britain to a storm of fury over her refusal to condemn Donald Trump's widely-criticised ban on refugees entering the United States.

Conservative MPs joined the attacks on the Prime Minister after she refused to speak out about the controversial move and one Tory said he would be hit by the ban.

Labour said it should "sadden" the country that Mrs May had failed to condemn the president's actions and the Liberal Democrats said her behaviour was "shocking".

Conservative MP Nadhim Zahawi, who is of Iraqi origin but a British citizen, said a US immigration lawyer had confirmed that he would be affected by the ban.

"A sad sad day to feel like a second-class citizen," he said. "Sad day for the USA.

"Had confirmation that the order does apply to myself and my wife as we were both born in Iraq. Even if we are not dual Nat.

" I'm a British citizen and so proud to have been welcomed to this country. Sad to hear ill be banned from the USA based on my country of birth."

Tory MP Heidi Allen rounded on Mrs May for the way she had handled the situation.

She said on Twitter: "Strong leadership means not being afraid to tell someone powerful when they're wrong. It's an ethos this country is proud of @theresa_may.

"I don't care how special the relationship is, some lines just shouldn't be crossed."

Scottish Tory leader Ruth Davidson said the ban was "both wrong in itself and very worrying for the future".

Mrs May was pressed repeatedly about her views on the refugee ban during a press conference in Ankara where she had been holding talks with Turkish leaders.

After initially dodging questions about her views on the controversial move, the Prime Minister then insisted it was up to America to devise its own policy.

She told reporters: "The United States is responsible for the United States' policy on refugees.

"The United Kingdom is responsible for the United Kingdom's policy on refugees and our policy on refugees is to have a number of voluntary schemes to bring Syrian refugees into the country, particularly those who are most vulnerable, but also to provide significant financial contributions to support refugees in countries surrounding Syria."

As Mrs May declined to attack the ban, her counterpart in Turkey, a country with a dismal record on human rights, was more forthcoming.

Prime minister Binali Yildirim sa id: "You cannot solve this issue of refugees by putting up walls.

"You have to eradicate the root causes of this. You have to eradicate the regional discrepancies in terms of development."

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said : "President Trump's executive order against refugees and Muslims should shock and appal us all.

"Theresa May should have stood up for Britain and our values by condemning his actions. It should sadden our country that she chose not to.

"After Trump's hideous actions and May's weak failure to condemn them, it's more important than ever for us to say to refugees seeking a place of safety, that they will always be welcome in Britain."

The US president has barred all refugees from entering the US for four months but blocked those from war-ravaged Syria indefinitely as part of a plan to stop "radical Islamic terrorists".

A 90-day ban on entry to the US from seven Muslim-majority nations has been imposed.

Speaking in the White House, Mr Trump said the ban was "working out very nicely".

He said: "It's not a Muslim ban but we were totally prepared. It's working out very nicely.

"You see it at the airports, you see it all over, it's working out very nicely, and we are going to have a very, very strict ban and we are going to have extreme vetting, which we should have had in this country for many years."

Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron said Mrs May's behaviour was "shocking".

He said: " Not only is this shocking even by her standards, it cannot be allowed to stand. The president's actions have horrified the world, and this is a moment when she has to show what side she is on."

"At the press conference she contrived to make the Turkish government look liberal," he added.

"They said it was wrong to build walls. Rather than fighting to build a world that is open, tolerant and united, Theresa May is dividing the world in a very dangerous way."

Canada's prime minister Justin Trudeau said his country welcomed " those fleeing persecution, terror and war", regardless of their faith.

Tory MP Sarah Wollaston said Mr Trump must not be invited to address both houses of Parliament from Westminster Hall on his state visit later this, pointedly insisting "t hose who wish to fawn over him" should do so elsewhere.

Hundreds of protesters gathered at New York's John F Kennedy Airport to show their anger at Mr Trump's ban on refugees entering the United States.

Demonstrators held placards with slogans such as "no hate, no fear", and shouted chants exhorting "no borders, no nations, no racist deportations".

Twelve refugees were detained at the airport on Saturday.
US President Donald Trump speaks on the phone with Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel from the Oval Office of the White House on January 28, 2017 in Washington, DC.

The United Nations has condemned Donald Trumps ban on refugees and order to stop Syrians and travellers from six other Muslim-majority countries entering the US amid mounting international anger.

The UN refugee agency (UNHCR) and International Organisation for Migration called on the new Presidents administration to continue offering asylum to people fleeing war and persecution, a right protected by international law.

The needs of refugees and migrants worldwide have never been greater and the US resettlement program is one of the most important in the world, the two agencies said in a joint statement.

The longstanding US policy of welcoming refugees has created a win-win situation: it has saved the lives of some of the most vulnerable people in the world who have in turn enriched and strengthened their new societies.

The UN also cautioned Mr Trump against any move to give preferential status to particular nationalities or religions after his executive order called for minority religious groups to be fast-tracked.

He announced his support for the prospect of Syrian Christians being given priority for asylum in an interview with the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN).

When asked if Christians would be given special status, he replied yes, adding: Theyve been horribly treated everybody was persecuted in all fairness, but they were chopping off the heads of everybody but more so the Christians.

And I thought it was very, very unfair. So we are going to help them.

The UNHCR and IOM urged the new administration to continue its work with the UN and other agencies to ensure vital resettlement programmes for people fleeing conflict and persecution, whatever their background.

We strongly believe that refugees should receive equal treatment for protection and assistance, and opportunities for resettlement, regardless of their religion, nationality or race, a spokesperson said.

We will continue to engage actively and constructively with the US Government, as we have done for decades, to protect those who need it most.

Mr Trump has suspended all refugee admissions for 120 days as part of measures he claimed would keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the US.

His order additionally banned Syrian refugees indefinitely until significant changes are made, and halved the annual cap on refugees to 50,000.

The President also signed an executive order on Friday that will suspend travel visas for anyone from seven predominantly Muslim countries from entering the US for at least 90 days.

He claimed his administration needed time to develop more stringent screening processes for refugees, immigrants and visitors.

The order will affect people from countries of particular concern, expected to include Syria, Iraq, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen.

It provoked outcry from NGOs working to stem the worst ever global refugee crisis, with more than 65 million people forced to flee their homes.

Amnesty International warned the move could have catastrophic consequences, saying some of the worst fears about a Trump presidency were already being realised.

Salil Shetty, the groups secretary general, said: These men, women and children are the victims of the same terror President Trump claims he wants to fight against. The irony beggars belief.

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) said Mr Trumps harmful and hasty decision would impact thousands of innocent people, mostly women and children, awaiting resettlement to the US.

In truth, refugees are fleeing terror  they are not terrorists, said IRC president and CEO David Miliband.

Help Refugees, a British charity working across camps in northern France, Greece and the Middle East, said news of Mr Trumps order was devastating.

Refugees are, by definition, people seeking sanctuary from some of the most horrific circumstances and it is the duty of compassionate and progressive nations to accept their fair share, a spokesperson said.

Banning refugees on the basis of their religious beliefs is abhorrent.

It came months after global outcry over the Republicans campaign pledge to implement a total and complete shutdown of Muslims entering the United States.

Around 25,000 refugees were resettled in the US between October and the end of 2016 under the UNHCRs programme for the most vulnerable, the agency said.

According to the Pew Research Centre, the numbers of Muslim and Christian refugees from all countries entering the US were around the same last year: 37,521 Christian refugees entered the US during 2016, with 38,901 Muslim refugees entering in the same period.

Before being approved for resettlement by American authorities, refugees undergo an in-depth process that includes up to 36 months of vetting  including biometric screening  by 12 to 15 government agencies including the Department of Homeland Security and intelligence services.
US President Donald Trump and German Chancellor Angela Merkel have agreed on the "fundamental importance" of Nato to trans-Atlantic relations and the need for all members to pay their fair share, according to the White House.

The leaders also discussed the situation in the Middle East and North Africa, relations with Russia and the Ukraine crisis during what was described as an "extensive telephone conversation".

In previous remarks Mr Trump has dismissed Nato as "obsolete", though during British prime minister Theresa May's visit to Washington on Friday, she said the president had assured her he was 100% behind Nato.

Mr Trump and Mrs Merkel agreed to deepen German-US relations, and increase cooperation in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism.

The White House said Mr Trump accepted Mrs Merkel's invitation to the Group of 20 economic summit in Hamburg, Germany, in July. He also said he looked forward to welcoming her to Washington soon.

AP
No comment: Donald Trumps spokesman Sean Spicer walked out of a Press conference when confronted by reporters

One of the most profound stories in literature is that of Pontius Pilate's question to Jesus "What is truth?" It is a question that continues to perplex us more than 2,000 years later, and one that has been brought into sharp focus by current major developments at home and abroad.

Last Saturday the vulgarian Donald Trump attended an inter-denominational prayer service in the beautiful Anglican Cathedral in Washington.

That evening a British television reporter in Washington claimed that the nation needed more than prayers to survive the reign of this new President.

Nevertheless, his character flaws did not stop him becoming President, and like Pope Francis we should try and give him time to prove himself, even if his first week has been upsetting.

However, we are already hard-pressed to judge where fact merges into fiction .

A good example of this was the row over the alleged number of people who attended Trump's inauguration.

Various media outlets reported that there was a markedly smaller turnout than for Obama's inauguration.

Trump angrily denied this and sent out his hapless press secretary to confront the media. When reporters persisted, the press secretary walked out of the room.

Two days later I watched Trump supporters rubbish the media claims, and one of them even said that the facts did not matter.

This is dangerous nonsense of the kind that you find in Putin's Russia. If people do not want to accept the facts, our Western democracies are in deep trouble.

Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Previous Next Close Donald Trump, chairman and president of the Trump Organization and the founder of Trump Entertainment Resorts, speaks at a press conference on day two of the 2014 Republican Leadership Conference on May 30, 2014 in New Orleans, Louisiana. Members of the Republican Party are scheduled to speak at the 2014 Republican Leadership Conference, which hosts 1,500 delegates from across the country through May 31st. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) Getty Images Donald Trump's comments have provoked outrage Donald Trump Getty Images Donald Trump is considering running for president Donald Trump has refused to back down over his remarks about Mexican immigrants Donald Trump tees off. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump speaks at a town hall event in New Hampshire (AP) Donald Trump says he and NBC have settled their beauty pageant "dust-up" Donald Trump said his proposal comes in response to the level of hatred among "large segments of the Muslim population" toward Americans (AP) Donald Trump's support for a Muslim database in the US drew sharp criticism (AP) Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump mocks disabled reporter Serge Kovaleski. Kovaleski has arthrogryposis Republican presidential candidate, businessman Donald Trump AP Republican presidential candidate, businessman Donald Trump assures America he has no size issues during Republican presidential primary debate at Fox Theatre, Thursday, March 3, 2016, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio) AP Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump (AP) An protester against Donald Trump holds a burning T-shirt outside the Republican's rally in Albuquerque (AP) After the Orlando nightclub mass shooting - the worst in American history - Donald Trump tweeted: "Appreciate the congrats for being right on radical Islamic terrorism, I don't want congrats, I want toughness & vigilance. We must be smart! " / Facebook

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Whatsapp Donald Trump, chairman and president of the Trump Organization and the founder of Trump Entertainment Resorts, speaks at a press conference on day two of the 2014 Republican Leadership Conference on May 30, 2014 in New Orleans, Louisiana. Members of the Republican Party are scheduled to speak at the 2014 Republican Leadership Conference, which hosts 1,500 delegates from across the country through May 31st. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

We are now in a post-truth society, which is a polite way of talking about half-truths and total lies.

Some of these are so obvious that they hardly bear repeating. Did Russia interfere with the American election? Of course it did. But if Putin denies this often enough, many people will believe him.

The search for truth is also controversial nearer home. Prime Minister Theresa May refused point blank to give any details to the media about the serious fault that happened during a test of the Trident missile system.

Some people will agree that she was right not to discuss such matters publicly, but we still do not know what happened.

Here at home there are many rumours and bitter accusations about the scandalous mess created by the RHI fiasco, and there is an urgent need to find the truth.

There is no doubt that the retired judge who heads the RHI inquiry will do everything in his power to discover the truth, but his findings may not please everybody.

The search for truth also applies to people in their everyday lives. How many are living behind an image,? Even when faced with the truth, many folk are unable to accept it. Too often they take the easy way out and obey the maxim "Whatever you say, say nothing".

This has been apparent throughout our recent history. It took a very long time and a great deal of money for the Saville Inquiry to finally expose the truth about Bloody Sunday.

It also took a very long time for the truth about institutional child sex abuse to be revealed by investigators, including the findings of the recent inquiry chaired by Judge Anthony Hart.

These inquiries shone a clear light on dark quarters and brought a sense of relief that these evils had been exposed.

This did not bring full redress to the victims, but the truth always has a cleansing effect. Perhaps that underlies the Biblical exhortation that if people adhere to the teachings of Christ, they will know the truth and the truth will set them free.

It may take a long time to burrow beneath the bombast of Donald Trump or of the Stormont debacle to find out the truth.

In the meantime, it is the duty of everyone inside and outside the churches to be on their guard.

We ignore the truth at our peril, so never stop asking yourself, "What really is true?" You might be surprised about your answers.
Future fears: Theresa May promised a practical solution on the Irish border after the Brexit vote at a meeting with Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny

Consigned to a destiny over which they no longer have any power, or influence. Sinking to their knees in resignation. Thudding their fists against impenetrable glass. Dramatic? Yes - but such is the depth of desperate voicelessness suffered by all the devolved nations, which are all likely to suffer worst from a loss of single market and customs union membership.

Having no influence over your destiny is a frightening thing and, after hearing Theresa May's Brexit speech, it is becoming clear that the devolved institutions' pleas are falling entirely on wilfully deaf ears.

If in any doubt, see the frustration spewing from the joint ministerial meetings (the discussions between David Davis and ministers from Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales).

After its very first meeting, Nicola Sturgeon shocked reporters with how candid she was - describing it as "greatly frustrating", she noted "words are not matched by substance and action", while the Labour First Minister of Wales said, "nothing concrete came out of the meeting and I am none the wiser as to what her (Theresa May's) proposals are".

After the most recent meeting, a Sinn Fein minister said May, "treated the council with utter disdain" by giving her Brexit speech two days before the council met, highlighting its impudence, with a Sinn Fein source describing the meeting as "heated", with the devolved nations feeling they are being treated with "contempt and disdain".

People are getting frustrated, angry and worried at the prospect of a Brexit guided solely by English politicians swayed by hard Brexit sentiments, which has elevated hard controls on immigration and building nonsensical new trade deals as a priority far above economic prosperity, or political stability, in the devolved nations.

Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales each harbours specific anxieties about Brexit, but with the Government's ears so finely tuned to the needs of the loudest Leave voters, they cannot hear them.

There is serious concern here in Northern Ireland about a hard border. People lazily couch this concern in the language of peace, or war, which is ridiculously out of touch.

But it is simply impossible for the UK to leave the customs union without a hard border being installed, either around the island of Ireland, or between Northern Ireland and the Republic.

Either would damage trade, with the former increasing our sense of isolation from the Republic, or with the latter isolating us from the rest of the UK - if that happens, to travel between areas in the UK, I'll need to go through a customs check and passport check, so we'll be both within and without the UK.

And that would be with a UK passport - life would be even more difficult for the sizeable amount of Northern Ireland citizens with just an Irish passport.

Recent submissions to the Parliamentary Northern Ireland Affairs Committee highlight the impact on people's lives that Brexit's direction will have. Looking at one industry alone, dairy, the head of the Northern Irish arm of Dairy UK, Mike Johnston, insisted how damaging the current course will prove to be.

No longer being part of EU trade deals (the other side of the coin to this incessant desire for the United Kingdom to strike out on its own) will see exports to major markets, like Malaysia and Thailand, face "at least double" tariff rates, which "would kill that business".

On a hard border, he stated: "It's a major, major issue for the dairy industry. We are very, very dependent on what we call an all-island value chain. If we have any interruption in the current practices it is going to affect the longer-term viability of the industry."

Faced with such dire consequences, we sought refuge in the law, specifically what is called the Sewel Convention, which is essentially a political promise that the UK will listen to the devolved institutions.

In Tuesday's judgment, all 11 Supreme Court Justices rejected the request for each of the devolved assemblies to be consulted on leaving the EU. The Supreme Court noted: "The sanction for non-observance of a convention is political in that disregard of a convention may lead to political defeat, to loss of office, or to other political consequences, but will not engage the attention of the courts which are limited to matters of law alone."

And here lies the problem the devolved nations face: quite simply, no one will be subjected to a political defeat, or a loss of office, in Westminster as a consequence of completely neglecting us. If anything, it might even play well among some of the 52%.

So, with no legal, or political, consequences for ignoring us, what is to stop Westminster blocking us out entirely?

Nothing. And it shows.
An Australian-educated former economist with Indonesias finance ministry and his family were released from police custody on Friday after being deported from Turkey for allegedly trying to join Islamic State (IS) in Syria, an official said Friday.

The man, identified as Triyono Utomo, was arrested Wednesday morning at a Bali airport with his wife, daughter and two sons. They were sent to Jakarta on Thursday as part of an investigation, but were eventually released due to a lack of evidence needed to press terrorism-related charges against them, National Police spokesman Brig. Gen. Rikwanto told BenarNews.

They finally were freed and sent to a social center of Bambu Apus to receive guidance training from the social ministry, Rikwanto said, referring to a government center in Jakarta. "There they are to be trained in Pancasila, Indonesias ideology based on five principles, and how to live in society.

Earlier this week, police released 17 Indonesians who were arrested Saturday after being deported from Turkey over similar allegations. The 17 are attending the same training.

Quit to start school for orphans

On Friday, the Ministry of Finance confirmed that Utomo had been employed there. He had earned a masters degree from Flinders University in Adelaide, Australia, and was a candidate to head a unit in the ministrys Fiscal Policy Office.

In February 2016, he resigned as a public servant from the finance ministry, saying he wanted to manage a boarding school for orphans in Bogor, ministry spokesman Nufransa Wira Sakti said in a press release Friday. After that he could no longer be contacted.

The city of Bogor is just south of Jakarta.

Rikwanto said the family was freed because there was not enough evidence against them even though, he acknowledged, there was evidence that IS recruiters had persuaded them to go to Syria.

We have no choice because they have not done anything related with the terrorism law, Rikwanto said.

Police, according Rikwanto, cannot charge IS supporters unless criminal laws are broken. He gave examples such as passport forgery and falsification of documents.

Under Indonesias counterterrorism laws, it is not an offense for nationals to travel to Syria. But, according to the Associated Press, local authorities have resorted to arresting suspected radicals under the countrys electronic communications laws, if they can prove that they were trying to recruit militants over the internet.

Now (the law) is under revision. Who knows in the future, if we can have additional clauses to investigate or to charge an IS supporter? Rikwanto said, referring to the terrorism law.

Investigators determined that the family of five wanted to go to Syria because members were lured by IS recruiters who promised them life under Islamic Caliphate.

They believe in hijrah, jihad by emigrating, and living under the Islamic law. They want to live in an Islamic community blessed by God. When they are dead, they will go to heaven. Thats what they believe, Rikwanto said.

Village watchmen

During the past four years, police have teamed up with the National Counterterrorism Agency (BNPT) and local governments to monitor citizens who suddenly move and disappear.

We told the leaders of neighborhood and villages to monitor suspicious activities of their people so we can follow it up, Rikwanto said.

Some special regions of concern are hotbeds of IS supporters, including Tasikmalaya in West Java, Makassar in South Sulawesi and Padang in West Sumatra.

Since 2015, as many as 283 Indonesians have been deported from Turkey for allegedly intending to go to Syria, according to figures from the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. As of August 2016, according to BNPT, 237 adults and 46 children from Indonesia were in Syria.
A military offensive has apparently injured the leader of Islamic States affiliate in the Philippines who is linked to a newly uncovered terrorist cell in Malaysia, as well as killed four militants including a Malaysian, according to reports published Friday.

Isnilon Hapilon, reportedly fled from a camp in Lanao del Sur, a province in the southern Philippines, after being injured in a military operation on Wednesday and Thursday that consisted of ground and air strikes, Philippine military chief of staff Gen. Eduardo Ano told the Associated Press (AP).

Hapilon suffered an arm injury and had to be carried by others during his escape, Philippine television news ABS-CBN reported. The news reports did not identify the Malaysian who was killed.

Terrorism experts have described Hapilon, a former leader of the Abu Sayyaf Group, as the head of IS Philippines  which consists of three militant groups that have sworn allegiance to the Middle East-based Islamic State group  and Malaysian and Indonesian supporters of the group last year referred to him as their regional emir in an IS propaganda video.

His reported injury is the second blow to IS Philippines this month. On Jan. 5, another IS leader based in the southern Philippines, Mohammad Jaafar Maguid, who was known as Tokboy, was shot dead by security forces on a beach in Mindanao island, officials said.

He was the founder and leader of Ansarul Khilafa Philippines (AKP), one of the three groups that make up the Philippine branch of IS, according to experts.

Reacting to the reports about the killings of the four militants and the wounding of Hapilon, Malaysias police chief told BenarNews that security forces in the eastern state of Sabah  which is close to the southern Philippines  were ready to intercept any militants trying to flee from the Philippine offensive.

We fully support Philippines forces assault on the terrorist groups in the south. We will give our fullest cooperation, Inspector General of Police Khalid Abu Bakar said late Friday. Our front-line troops have been put on alert for any attempt by these terrorist members to flee the south and take refuge in Sabah.

Earlier this week, Khalid announced that police had arrested a Filipino and two Bangladeshis along with a Malaysian woman. He said the four were part of a new IS cell that planned to use Sabah as a transit point for sending militants to the Philippines.

The cell had received orders from Hapilon and a former lecturer at Malaya University, Mahmud Ahmad, Khalid said in a statement issued Monday.

A question of time

Hapilon leads al Harakat ul Islamiyah Basilan, one of the groups that make up IS Philippines, according to Rohan Gunaratna, a BenarNews contributor who directs the International Center for Political Violence and Terrorism Research at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore and has referred to Hapilon as the overall leader of IS Philippines.

A former Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) deputy leader responsible for the Basilan area, Hapilon broke away from ASG and unified several groups pledging allegiance to IS and inviting foreign fighters.

With President Dutarte vowing to dismantle the IS-centric threat groups in the Philippines, Hapilon relocated from Basilan in Western Mindanao to Central Mindanao in December 2016, Gunaratna told BenarNews on Friday.

As Hapilon is not familiar with Central Mindanao, he has become vulnerable to injury and death. It is a question of time that he will be captured or killed."

Hapilon (pictured below in a notice circulated by the FBI) is on the U.S. governments list of most wanted terrorists for murder of a United States National outside the United States; hostage taking resulting in death; conspiracy to use and carry a firearm during a crime of violence; and using and carrying a firearm during a crime of violence. The FBI is offering a reward of up to U.S. $5 million for information leading to his apprehension or conviction.

Hapilon gained global notoriety in May 2001 when he and other ASG members kidnapped 20 tourists, including three U.S. nationals, from the Dos Palmas Resort on Palawan, according to the Counter Extremism Project. ASG operatives beheaded one of the American hostages, Guillermo Sobero, and referred to his killing as a gift to then-Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
Burin Intin poses for a mugshot following his arrest on suspicion of violating Thailands royal defamation law, April 2016.

In the first such ruling since the new king took Thailands throne, a military court Friday sentenced a man to 11 years and four months for violating the countrys strict royal defamation laws and committing computer crime.

Defendant Burin Intin pleaded guilty to charges of breaking the Lese-Majeste law that guards against royal defamation as well as the Computer Crimes Act (CCA) for posting messages on social media deemed as insults to the monarchy, his lawyer told BenarNews.

Burin, 27, who is employed as a welder, was arrested April 27, 2016, while taking part in a street protest in Bangkok against a coup that brought Thailands military government to power in May 2014. Two days later, authorities charged him with violating Lese-Majeste and the CCA, attorney Anon Nampa said.

Burin faced the prospect of a combined sentence of 22 years and eight months, but had this reduced by half because he pleaded guilty to both counts, the Associated Press reported.

While investigating the case, police found that he had sent a message to the mother of a protest organizer and had posted a comment on his Facebook page, both of which were deemed as insults against the royals.

The Lese-Majeste law, which carries a potential sentence of 15 years, prohibits the repetition or reproduction of defamatory content.

The military court found he committed crimes on two occasions. The final sentence is 11 years and 4 months, Anon told Benar News by phone.

He will not appeal, though he has the right, he said, adding that his client would seek a royal pardon.

Burin became the first person to be sent to prison under Lese-Majeste since King Maha Vajiralongkorn ascended to the throne on Dec.1 following the death in October of his father, King Bhumbol Adulyadej, who ruled over Thailand for 70 years.

So far under the new kings reign, one person has been charged under Lese-Majeste. An activist, Jatupat Pai Boonpattararaksa, has been jailed while he awaits trial for posting a BBC News profile of the new king that was seen by Thai authorities as defamatory and that was published on the day that Vajirarlongkorn became king.

Beginning with the May 2014 coup through Jan. 15, at least 73 people were charged with royal defamation, according to iLaw, a rights advocacy group.
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It can be tough to be a vegetarian. You have to work harder than everyone else to make sure youre getting all the nutrients your body needs. So, when its time to take a
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 28/01/2017 (2107 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Westman is poised to edge past the Canadian Chamber of Commerces national economic forecast for the year.

So described Brandon Chamber of Commerce president Terry Burgess in response to the national entitys Crystal Ball Report, Shock and Opportunity: Adapting to a Volatile World.

The report, released earlier this week, forecasts national economic growth of 1.8 per cent in 2017, during which oil prices are expected to return to the $55 to $60 per-barrel range, because, as the report notes; demand has finally caught up to production.

Colin Corneau/The Brandon Sun Brandon Chamber of Commerce president Terry Burgess expects a good year for growth in Manitoba, adding that its important for Brandon to capitalize on that.

Looking into his own crystal ball, Burgess points to Westmans reliance on the oil industry, whose downfall was a central player in last years 7.2 per cent Brandon unemployment rate, which was the citys highest in recent memory.

An economy this reliant on the oil industry will be more heavily affected by an oil industry upturn than the nation as a whole, particularly in light of Virden-based Tundra Oil and Gas CEO Ken Neufelds optimism in looking at 2017.

Tundra only dug 35 wells last year  a level of investment Neufeld hopes to see triple in 2017.

Anecdotally, Burgess said that he has heard similar takes on local oil industry optimism in recent weeks, and that while it will take a while for an upturn to impact Westmans economic cycle, its still anticipated to come.

The Manitoba Chamber of Commerce has issued its own 2017 forecast, in which it anticipates the province will place second in terms of overall growth, right after Ontario.

Manitobas expectations are quite high for a good year in terms of economic growth, so our challenge in Brandon is to make sure that were set to go and can capture that, Burgess said.

This is where the citys economic development department comes into play, along with its work to promote existing business expansion, the development of vacant industrial land and various other related efforts.

Thursdays Brandon Chamber of Commerce board meeting carried a special focus on the Westman Opportunities Leadership Groups efforts to attract a soybean-crushing plant, Burgess relayed.

The conversation was in large part driven by a recent announcement that the worlds largest pea processing plant would be constructed at Portage la Prairie; a $400-million project that will maintain 150 full-time jobs.

While the soybean-crushing plant effort is a positive one, Burgess clarified that theyre still quite early on in the process, and that results arent likely in the near future.

Another effort that might help strengthen Brandons economy in the coming years is an ongoing initiative to attract an urban reserve to the city.

Next month will find the Brandon Chamber of Commerce and City of Brandon meet with the Aboriginal Chamber of Commerce to help nudge the effort forward.

If you create the environment where First Nations know were receptive to promoting a First Nation Urban Development Area in Brandon, then I think it helps us all get at the table and

into discussions, Burgess explained, clarifying that the key hurdle will be proving the City of Brandons willingness to start up such mutually beneficial partnerships.

Although the Canadian Chamber of Commerce forecasts an economic growth of 1.8 per cent in 2017, it also clarifies that U.S. President Donald Trump could easily throw a wrench into the works.

Trumps anti-trade rhetoric has brought about a heightened level of apprehension about the local economy, the report reads, noting that Canadian business leaders are more worried about general economic prospects than they have been in the past.

Brandon and Westman are no exceptions, Burgess said  a point that rings particularly true given the areas proximity to the United States border and its wealth of manufacturing jobs.

Whatever tariffs, duties or border adjustment taxes the United States places on imported goods will affect us and potentially drag our economic growth down.

(Trump) made a number of really big statements, general statements, that would lead a lot of people to think that free trade, or trade of any sort, would be in trouble with the U.S., Burgess said, asking: Is the federal government doing what they need to do to protect that trade?

 tclarke@brandonsun.com

 Twitter: @TylerClarkeMB
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 28/01/2017 (2107 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The Milne sisters  who may be the oldest siblings in Manitoba living under one roof  got along so well three of them married into the same family.

There must have been something about those Templeton boys from Basswood.

Margaret was the first, tying the knot with Hugh.

Tim Smith/The Brandon Sun Sisters Olive Templeton, Florence Brown, Margaret Templeton and Gertie Templeton all reside together at the Fairview Personal Care Home in Brandon.

Then Gertie married Tom and Olive found love with Bob.

That was funny, wasnt it? Margaret said aloud.

Florence, the baby of the sisters, missed out  the four Templeton brothers were already taken.

Dad said, Thank gosh theres no more, she said to laughter from gathered family.

Decades later, the Milne sisters, originally of Newdale, are still close  by blood, marriage and now through housing.

They each live at Fairview Personal Care Home in Brandon.

Their names are Margaret Templeton, 98, Gertie Templeton, 95, Olive Templeton, 93, and Florence Brown, 87.

Staff at the PCH believe there isnt a senior centre in the province taking care of as many as four siblings. The provincial government does not keep track.

Though the Milne sisters have the same address again, they live on separate floors.

Its so we cant fight, quipped Olive, who this month became the last of the sisters to move in.

The Milnes havent lived in the same place since they were children in Newdale.

As girls, the sisters were musically inclined, and say they werent too much for their parents to handle.

They remained close throughout their lives.

Margaret was a housewife. She and her husband spent time in Sudbury, Ont., Newdale and then Basswood, the latter where they spent much of their lives farming. They managed the community general store for some time.

Gertie was a teacher. Her family settled in Holland, where they ran a butcher shop.

Olive was a teacher, too. Her family lived and farmed in Basswood.

Florence was a housewife. She worked at a bank before tying the knot with her husband, farming together south of Brandon.

Some of the sisters moved around, but by and large, remained in Westman.

Their husbands have since passed away, and none of them remarried.

Submitted photo A Milne family gathering at Fairview Personal Care Home in Brandon on Mother's Day in 2016. Back row, from left, Bob Brown, Sandy Brown, Carol Campbell, Gwenda Templeton, Linda Creighton, Jim Templeton, Jim Campbell, Velma Templeton, Sandra Kingdon, Doug Templeton, Gwenda Prouty. Front row, Florence Brown, Olive Templeton, Gertie Templeton and Margaret Templeton.

And heres another coincidence the four sisters share: they each gave birth to one son and one daughter.

The womens oldest sister, Elsie Wilson  who had three children, and happened to not marry a Templeton  would have now been 100 years old. She passed away seven years ago.

All five of the Milne girls then must have some secret to longevity.

Good food, good health, Margaret said. And good home life.

Eat good, Olive answered.

Exercise, Gertie added.

It helped the women that they always had each other.

We shared everything with each other, Gertie said.

Gathered at the first floor of the PCH, the Milne sisters were joined by two of their children to help with answering questions, Linda Creighton, Florences daughter, and Sandra Kingdon, Margarets daughter.

They are grateful their mothers still have each other.

This is probably the best thing for them, said Creighton, who lives in Brandon.

In some respects, their mothers lives have come full circle.

This is the finish, said Kingdon, who resides in Alberta. Everybody is finally back together, like a bunch of girls hanging out.

 ifroese@brandonsun.com

 Twitter: @ianfroese
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 28/01/2017 (2107 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Ten turkeys were scooped out of Brandon last week as part of a provincial initiative feathering out the citys flock.

Some neighbours, however, suggest downsizing the number of wild birds has proven to be a safety hazard, and led to a proliferation of deer in the region.

A news tip sent to The Brandon Sun suggested a turkeys head was caught in the trap, set up at the intersection of Richmond Avenue and Eighth Street. One person spotted a dead grouse inside the trap, the person said.

Submitted A few turkeys are in a cage set up at a residential property at the corner of Richmond Avenue and Eighth Street in Brandon. The entrance of the trap was shut on 10 turkeys late last week as part of an effort to relocate turkeys out of the city.

Neighbour Harry Malchuk said he saw 19 deer on a recent evening. The wildlife gnawed on his cedar trees to the extent he wrapped his trees in jute bags to prevent it.

They came into my yard and just chewed every cedar I had that Ive been planting for years. Thats all right, but the turkeys are what bothers them? Malchuk said in disbelief.

The initiative to capture turkeys is in response to numerous complaints, said Allison Krause Danielsen, regional wildlife biologist with Manitoba Sustainable Development.

The wild birds, situated in the citys south end, are making messes in backyards and resting on the roofs of houses and in trees, said Krause Danielsen, who is based in Brandon.

Some people enjoy them a lot and some people dont really like them.

Last winter, the government department used a trap to drop nylon netting on the birds.

It worked, capturing 10 of the flocks 20 birds, but was not as successful as intended, Krause Danielsen said.

This winter, a traditional metal frame trap was positioned. For a number of weeks, food was set in the cage each morning to entice turkeys to visit the temporary feeding station.

One day a week ago, the trap door was shut on 10 turkeys. Krause Danielsen understands four more of the wild birds roamed the city, which the department wont try to apprehend this winter.

The birds were taken to a holding area outside Brandon and will be released in rural areas, where game and fish associations want more turkeys.

In response to the high number of deer, a member of the Brandon Wildlife Association visited the trap every night to close the entrance.

But Malchuk claimed the deer  enticed by the smell of food  returned to the trap anyway.

A spokesperson with Manitoba Sustainable Development said he understands there are passionate people pro- and anti-turkey in Brandon, but stated the deer complaint was no longer an issue once the trap was closed each night.

He explained no turkeys were stuck or injured in the cages soft meshing, which the birds can put their head through without pain.

The animals are not actually native to Manitoba, and thus struggle in winter with finding food.

Its why they congregate around feeding stations, said Krause Danielsen, who explained, as a result, they only capture turkeys when theres a lot of snow.

They sometimes struggle in winter and so they do best in areas where they have access to food source.

Turkeys swarm places with food and without predators, which likely makes Brandon an attractive centre, she said.

Since Krause Danielsen started with the department in 2012, this is the second winter Sustainable Development tried capturing the wild birds, she said.

Krause Danielsen said the department recommends that people leave the turkeys alone and avoid feeding them.

If they are causing problems, homeowners are encouraged to place a plastic owl or plastic spikes on railings to scare away the birds.

These are wildlife-discouraging things you can do if you dont like having turkeys there, Krause Danielsen said.

 ifroese@brandonsun.com

 Twitter: @ianfroese
Opinion

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 27/01/2017 (2108 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

LETHBRIDGE, Alta.  Canada is about to relearn the truth in the old maxim, States do not have friends; they have interests.

The free trade election of 1988 ignored this advice. Former Canadian prime minister Brian Mulroneys Irish eyes sparkled as he talked about the great relationship between Canada and the United States. With free trade, Canada was entering into a continental partnership that, he argued, would ensure stable trade relations and secure market access.

Critics at the time warned Canada was selling off its economy  and even locking itself into being a hewer of wood and seller of raw petroleum products  for the chimera of assured access; more broadly, Canada was potentially dealing away its sovereignty by making itself more dependent on the United States, a country whose history of economic development was a testament not to open borders but to protectionism.

In defence of this critique, critics pointed to past efforts to secure trade deals with the U.S., in particular the Reciprocity Agreement of 1854. That agreement, far more limited in scope than the FTA or NAFTA, secured access for Canadian wheat and other products exported to the U.S. It made sense at the time for Canada, a struggling young colony of Britain that had only recently been abandoned by the mother country that had, 20 years before, adopted free trade.

In 1866, however, the U.S. pulled out of the agreement. It did so in part because of Britains support for the Confederate states in the recently concluded civil war. But the U.S. also abrogated the agreement because Canada  as Donald Trump would say  was winning in the deal. Americas protectionist instincts kicked into high gear, as they have for much of that nations history. The ending of the deal had a happy conclusion, however: it spurred the discussions that led to Canadas creation the next year.

In later years, notably 1911 and again after the Second World War, Canada toyed briefly with the idea of entering into free trade with the U.S. But its political leadership  and a large portion of the electorate  rejected the idea, fearing a loss of sovereignty. Still, the theology (and misnomer) of free trade stuck around and, during a crisis of Keynesianism in the 1970s, resurfaced under Britains then-prime minister Margaret Thatcher and former U.S. president Ronald Reagan.

The decision of both countries to advocate for the trade agreements that followed was based in large part on an intention to hobble unionized labour and to scale back their countrys respective welfare states.

But so-called free trade also had supporters among large corporate interests and, most particularly, among finance capitalists  bankers, investment houses and insurance companies. Already possessors of a large amount of capital, this particular segment of the capitalist class desperately wanted new markets in which to invest its surplus. Capital wanted to be liberated  to go wherever it chose in search of greater profit, without hindrance in the form of regulation or fears of public (national) ownership.

The Canada-U.S. Free Trade Agreement set the stage for a swath of similar deals, each of which has been heavy on protecting investors rights  such as allowing financial interests to sue governments for enacting policies that cut into their profits  while doing little to protect workers, social programs or the environment.

The rising gap between the rich and the poor in every country and across the globe is a product of these policies. A recent Oxfam report states that eight individuals now possess the wealth of the bottom 50 per cent of humanity. A small group of individuals, whose sole contribution to the world economy is watching their money earn more money, is turning everyone else into debt slaves.

But at least for the moment, this growing underclass in the United States and elsewhere in the West has a weapon: the vote. It is not a coincidence that the two countries whose mentorship in the early 1980s fostered globalization  Britain and the United States  have witnessed, in the past year, a revolt against neo-liberal trade.

For private capital, this current apparent retreat into protectionism will not prove a serious blow. Some will lose money, but most will do well. Capitalism is nothing if not resilient. The Trump administration views everything as a business opportunity and will ensure that American corporations  including the presidents own family businesses  thrive.

But Canadians  like Americans  should take seriously the challenge presented by the new administration. Citizens  not governments, nor the state  who leave too great an amount of power in the hands of corporate interests surrender control over the kind of society they want today and into the future.

 Trevor W. Harrison is a professor at the University of Lethbridge and director of the Parkland Institute. His column was also published by the Winnipeg Free Press.
Opinion

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 28/01/2017 (2107 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Last week I had the opportunity to briefly speak at a conference put on by Facebook Canada and co-hosted by the Brandon Chamber of Commerce about how Westman companies can boost their business using the social media platform.

Facebook and other social media sites have grown exponentially in the past decade. They are no longer just a place to share photos. They are now a hub of commerce. With the rapid rise of Facebook, Google, Netflix, Twitter and YouTube, there has been significant changes in the way we use technology and consume news.

The Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage has been tasked with studying the future of local media and putting forward policy recommendations. Due to Facebook and other various websites, we know that newspapers and other forms of media are directly impacted. As our interim report stated, we fully recognize that media plays a vital role in society.

Unfortunately, there is no silver bullet to ensure that local media will continue to be available in the years ahead. We have heard and know that if the trend lines continue and if we want responsible local news to still be available, it is time we got serious about putting forward solutions.

The committee has heard from witnesses, such as the Globe and Mail and the Neepawa Banner, as well as online media companies like the Tyee from British Columbia and Brian Lilley from Rebel.ca. While some have thrived in this new business environment, many are having difficulty keeping the doors open.

As with many issues that Parliament deals with, the sustainability of local media is complex. There are new competitors entering the marketplace every day and the way people consume news is drastically changing. Throughout all this change, government policy has not kept up to date.

Traditional media has seen revenues decline. Some have wholly changed their business model, such as Macleans magazine, which now only prints a monthly edition. Newspapers such as The Brandon Sun were one of the first in Canada to have a paywall on their website and the Winnipeg Free Press has a unique pay per article method.

Due to these changes, many companies are changing their advertising methods. The reasons why local Westman businesses want to learn how to better utilize Facebook are many, but it does not mean that they completely disregard advertising in our local papers or radio stations. In fact, ignoring our local media would not make good business sense. According to a recent report, The Brandon Sun reaches 89 per cent of the citys adult population every week. Not only are people reading the newspaper, its writers and photographers are frequently awarded for their talents.

In my own campaign in the 2015 federal election, we spent thousands of dollars in The Brandon Sun. We also advertised on the radio, through direct mail and used social media extensively. Any successful business or organization, depending on their budget, should be using every platform they can.

Apparently my comments at the Facebook event raised concerns of sales staff with some of our local media outlets. I fully understand from where they are coming. As media outlets have told our committee, they are seeing increased competition due to online ad sales. However, businesses will continue to shift dollars online as it provides them with another tool to increase sales. Admitting the obvious, that online advertising offers additional opportunities for local businesses to reach new customers, while also supporting local media outlets is not mutually exclusive of one another.

To ensure that local news across the country is still available, our heritage committee will put forward recommendations in the very near future. There are lots of ideas being brought forward. Some have suggested that we assist smaller publications in improving their online presence and gradually move their audience to that platform. Or make funds available to keep the costs of printing down. We could eliminate advertising on the CBC and reform their mandate. We could direct the CBC to allow media outlets to use their local content, with full recognition given to the CBC, so that your tax dollars are not being seen to favour just the public broadcaster.

There are ways we could reduce taxes, such as creating tax credits to offset salaries. We could completely eliminate media outlets from paying sales taxes or allow Canadians to write off newspaper subscriptions. We could also give charitable status to small media outlets to provide incentives for those who wish to donate and support local news.

These are just some of the ideas weve heard. If you have ideas on how the federal government can change its policies or how it can improve the way it supports local media, please send me an email at Larry.Maguire@parl.gc.ca.

Larry Maguire

MP, Brandon-Souris
Opinion

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 28/01/2017 (2107 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Manitobas premier would probably have an easier time if he would just take a page from his old boss, former prime minister Stephen Harper.

During his career as leader of the Conservatives and his tenure as prime minister, Mr. Harper did not make it a habit to engage in incendiary language. His relationship with First Nations could at times be characterized as frosty, particularly on issues such as aboriginal education and missing and murdered indigenous women.

But Mr. Harper never found himself on the wrong side of a microphone denouncing aboriginal people (although he did make the mistake once of using the term old stock, for which he was widely criticized). His language and comportment was, for the most part, viewed as professional and diplomatic.

This is something Brian Pallister needs to learn.

A case in point is an interview he conducted with Macleans magazine, in which he complained that young indigenous men  a preponderance of them are offenders, with criminal records  are going off shooting guns in the middle of the night. It doesnt make sense.

Mr. Pallister made those comments to the reporter while enjoying his winter home in Costa Rica. It was in follow-up to an earlier remark he made while in Virden.

In that conversation, recorded by Virden radio station CJVM, the premier told area residents:

I think environmental and fiscal issues, I think (of them) the same way. We should all think sustainably. What is fair about going out and shooting at a pair of eyes in the night with a high-powered rifle? Whats sustainable about that?

Its just not right. It should stop. So what are we doing? Well, were organizing. Were organizing to bring indigenous people together to say the same thing I just said. Because its becoming a race war. And I dont want that. Thats not in anybodys best interest. Young indigenous guys going out and shooting a bunch of moose because they can? Because they say its their right? That doesnt make any sense  to me.

As we have suggested previously on this page, more than anything, Mr. Pallister likely believed he was playing to the crowd at the meeting of Tory members  there are some in the room who likely agreed with what he had to say and, given the tone of the newly elected president in the United States, perhaps this type of language has become more acceptable.

Nevertheless, this is not something Mr. Harper would have done.

Our Tory premier is a smart guy. He knows that the right to hunt and fish for indigenous people in Manitoba and elsewhere is constitutionally protected.

In fact, as the Supreme Court decision in R. v. Morris makes clear, aboriginal people have the right to hunt and fish and, if they wish, to hunt at night using techniques such as flash lights. Its one of the concessions Canada made to First Nations in exchange for the territories on which Manitobans farm and live (including Treaty One territory, which includes Winnipeg).

Now, if Mr. Pallister wanted to be really smart, he would take a page from his former boss and criticize the Supreme Court for this decision, because thats really where the fault lies. Certainly, Mr. Harper and some of his advisers complained long and hard about judge-made laws that shackle governments from making policy decisions.

Instead, our premier has shot himself and his government in the foot on the issue of night hunting, making opportunities to have a careful and well-considered conversation with First Nations leaders about rural residents concerns regarding safety and conservation much more difficult.

Apparently, he didnt heed our warning from last week when we suggested that our political class should be more careful with their words.

 Winnipeg Free Press and The Brandon Sun
Opinion

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 28/01/2017 (2107 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

People, speak out now

People, make sure you have your say. It is so wrong to have someone like Donald Trump as leader of a democratic nation. We want nothing to do with this misogynistic bully boy. Justin Trudeau, stand tall!

Make it law for all

I am puzzled. I cannot understand why night hunting is allowed at all. There should be a law against hunting at night for all!

These are my Canadian values

I would like to know what Kellie Leitch means when she talks about Canadian values. I am 84 years old and to me Canadian values means welcoming immigrants and anyone of any sexual orientation and colour. My values are ones of caring and inclusiveness.

Thanks to citizen traffic reporter

On Jan. 20, while shopping at a local grocery store, a man in a big brown truck hit my little car and drove away without leaving a note to claim any responsibility. I know this because a really nice woman saw the accident, and left me a note. She was able to give me a lot of details. Thanks go out to this angel, as she had gone out of her way to help, whereas the man in the truck had gone out of his way to avoid responsibility. I will remember this, and try to help out someone too in the future, as this really made me feel better about the situation. Hit-and-run accidents, even if no people are hurt, do have consequences. Thanks again to my secret reporter.

Good parenting

As hard as it must have been for the mom who identified her son as the suspect in a firearms case  good job mom. We need to make sure they grow up with respect for human life and the law!
Unions representing drivers at Bus Eireann say it is not too late to avoid industrial action.

The comments come after the company yesterday announced unilateral cuts to all premiums as of February 20 - this affects sick pay, overtime and Sunday rates.

Unions have described the financial crisis within the company as being "manufactured through bad policy decisions".

SIPTU Divisional Organiser Greg Ennis said: "We are prepared for talks but time is running out.

"If the acting chief executive (Ray Hernan) continues to push forward his agenda of unilateral cuts to our members' terms and conditions...we will respond accordingly," he warned.

"But in the meantime we are of course prepared to engage with all of the protagonists - Bus Eireann, the NTA (National Transport Authority) and the Department of Transport."

He said some of the union's drivers with 20 years' service earn 624 a week for a 39-hour week driving buses.

In a letter to workers, Bus Eireann acting CEO Ray Hernan said that in order to survive, the company, which is facing debts of 9m, will be imposing a series of pay and allowance cuts within weeks.

From February 20, Mr Hernan said workers will see their pay cut by 10%, Sunday premium pay slashed by 80%, shift premium payments scrapped, and further cuts to sick pay and overtime.

In addition, he said new policies such as part-time drivers will be considered by the firm, adding unions need to act responsibly.

The move has been seen as an attempt by the firm to force home the reality of the debt facing the bus company.

However, Bus Eireann Trade Union Group last night said the threatened pay cuts amount to open warfare , and that it was prepared for a battle.

Additional reporting by Read More: Fiachra O Cionnaith.
Jack O'Connor says he is running for the Labour Party chairmanship because we are at a unique point in Irish history.

The SIPTU president is working on a manifesto which will call for full collective bargaining for workers and an end to homelessness by 2022.

The vote will take place at Labour's spring conference in April.

Mr O'Connor explained why he wants the job, saying: "We're in a unique place in Ireland at the moment.

"If we can manage to navigate a course through Brexit and the implications of the Trump election in the States, and maintain the levels of economic growth by the centenary of the foundation of the state, we can actually achieve a great deal of the aspirations which we envisaged in the democratic programme of 1919."

The longstanding President of SIPTU also outlined his vision for Ireland.

He said: "Full collective bargaining rights for all workers, housing for all our people, we can go a considerable way, perhaps not all the way, towards achieving a fully comprehensive national health service.

"And we can build an education and skills development system which is equal to or better than most of Europe."
The Prime Minister of Mauritius has said that he knows who leaked the photographs of Michaela McAreavey's dead body to a newspaper.

In an interview published in today's Irish Independent, Navin Ramglooam said the source of the pictures did not come from within the police force itself, but from someone else close to the case.
France and Germany have formed a united front in the face of US president Donald Trumps halt in the US refugee programme, saying it "can only worry us".

German foreign minister Sigmar Gabriel pointed out that loving thy neighbour forms part of Americas Christian traditions.

After meeting on Saturday, the foreign ministers of both nations said they want to meet Rex Tillerson, Mr Trumps nominee for secretary of state who is still awaiting confirmation.

French minister Jean-Marc Ayrault said Mr Trumps order on Friday that bars all refugees from entering the United States for four months - and those from Syria indefinitely - "can only worry us".

"We have signed international obligations, so welcoming refugees fleeing war and oppression forms part of our duties," the French minister said.

"There are many other issues that worry us," he added. "That is why Sigmar and I also discussed what we are going to do.

"When our colleague, Tillerson, is officially appointed, we will both contact him."

Mr Gabriel - on his first trip abroad since his appointment on Friday - said offering refuge to the persecuted and those fleeing death are western values that Europe and the United States share.

"Love thy neighbour is part of this tradition, the act of helping others," he said.

"This unites us, we Westerners. And I think that this remains a common foundation that we share with the United States, one we aim to promote."

Mr Trump declared the ban necessary to prevent "radical Islamic terrorists" from entering the United States.

The order immediately suspended a programme that last year resettled in the US roughly 85,000 people displaced by war, political oppression, hunger and religious prejudice.

AP
Update 7.30pm: Iran's foreign ministry announced it will limit issuing visas to American tourists in retaliation against the immigration crackdown.

The official IRNA news agency carried a statement by the Iranian foreign ministry saying Iran will resort to "counteraction" to Mr Trump's executive order.

The statement said: "Iran, to defend the dignity of the great Iranian nation, will implement the principle of reciprocity until the removal of the insulting restriction against Iranian nationals."

The statement adds: "It will apply corresponding legal, consular and political actions."

The two countries have had no diplomatic relations since 1979 when militants stormed the US embassy.

Earlier: A sweeping new travel ban introduced by Donald Trump is causing chaos and panic worldwide.

The president issued an executive order yesterday banning nationals of seven Muslim-majority countries for three months - banning those fleeing from war-torn Syria indefinitely - and stopping the admission of all refugees for four months.

The Executive Order has been implemented by US Customs at Dublin and Shannon airports, as well as at ports of entry across the United States.

A note on the US Embassy website says that nationals of the countries listed on the Executive Order who have already scheduled a visa interview in Dublin, should not attend their appointment, as the Embassy will not be able to proceed with the visa interview.

In the US, New York immigration lawyers have moved to block the order saying numerous people have already been detained and many others turned away while Google has urged around 100 employees to return as soon as possible from abroad, for fear they could be affected.

Debbie Almontaser, from the Muslim Community Network, said: "The impact of this executive order will be immense, on immigrants as well as Muslims.

"We fear that it will further marginalize communities "

Airlines have been forced to turn away passengers due to fly to the United States.

Dutch airline KLM says it has had to turn away seven would-be passengers.

Manel Vrijenhoek, at KLM's press office, said: "We would love to bring them there. That's not the problem. It's just that this is what the US sprang on the rest of the world - that these people are no longer welcome."

She said the seven were due to fly with KLM from different airports around the world. Ms Vrijenhoek confirmed they were from countries affected by the three-month immigration ban: Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen.

Qatar Airways is advising passengers bound for the US from banned countries that they need to have either a green card or diplomatic visa to travel.

A statement on the company's website says: "Nationals of the following countries: Sudan, Libya, Somalia, Syria, Iran, Iraq, Yemen ... may travel to the U.S. only if they are in possession of a permanent resident card (Green card) or any of the below visas."

Cairo airport officials said seven US-bound migrants - six from Iraq and one from Yemen - have been prevented from boarding an EgyptAir flight to New York's JFK airport.

The officials said the seven migrants, escorted by officials from the UN refugee agency, were stopped from boarding the plane after authorities at Cairo airport contacted their counterparts in JFK airport.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations said it would challenge the constitutionality of the executive order.

"There is no evidence that refugees - the most thoroughly vetted of all people entering our nation - are a threat to national security," said Lena Masri, the group's national litigation director. "This is an order that is based on bigotry, not reality."

During the past budget year, the US accepted 84,995 refugees, including 12,587 people from Syria. President Barack Obama had set the refugee limit for this budget year at 110,000.

According to Mr Trump's executive order, he plans to cut that to 50,000.

Jan Egeland, of the Norwegian Refugee Council, said the decision "will not make America safer, it will make America smaller and meaner".

He said the decision dealt a "mortal blow" to the idea of international responsibility for those fleeing persecution.

The US is leading a "race to the bottom" in which politicians in wealth countries provide "zero moral leadership", he said.

Malala Yousafzai, shot in the head by the Pakistani Taliban in 2012 to stop her campaigning for girls' education and co-winner of the 2014 Nobel peace prize, said she is heart-broken by the ban.

Ms Yousafzai implored Mr Trump "not to turn his back on the world's most defenceless children and families".

Refugees and immigrants, she said, have "helped build your country".

AP
Top Mexican political figures are debating how to fight back against US president Donald Trump's aggressive stance on trade and immigration.

They have suggested the country could expel US law enforcement agents, stop detaining Central American migrants or no longer inspect north-bound lorries for drug shipments.

Some activist groups are also calling for a boycott of American brands.

Former president Felipe Calderon said "we have to design a policy of retaliation" for Mr Trump's proposed plans, which include making Mexico pay for the border wall he wants to build.

"We have to put US security issues under review ... including the presence of (US) agents" on Mexican soil, Mr Calderon said.

The comments came after current president Enrique Pena Nieto scrapped a planned meeting on Tuesday with Mr Trump after the American president tweeted that it would be better to cancel if Mexico was unwilling to pay for his proposed wall.

Ruben Aguilar, a political consultant who was spokesman for former president Vicente Fox, noted that Mexico had been stopping Central American migrants before they reached the US border "as part of the logic between two friendly countries".

He suggested that Mexico could say, "OK, I'm not going to stop Central Americans any more" and added: "Now if our two countries aren't friends any more, that is a card we could play to increase the pressure."

"Drugs are another" possible card, Mr Aguilar said, adding: "If you want to stop them with your wall, well we won't stop them any more, let them go through."

Mr Trump appeared to try to defuse the spat between the two countries on Friday, saying: "Great respect for Mexico, I love the Mexican people.

"We have really, I think, a very good relationship, the president and I, and we had a talk that lasted for about an hour this morning, and we are going to be working on a fair relationship."

The office of the Mexican president confirmed the call, calling it "constructive and productive", but did not specifically mention the wall or other policies proposed by Mr Trump.

Mr Pena Nieto's government instead stressed "the need for both countries to continue working together to stop the trafficking of drugs and the flow of illegal weapons".

"Both presidents recognised their clear and very public differences on this very sensitive issue, and agreed to solve those differences as part of an integrated discussion of all aspects of the bilateral relationship," Mr Pena Nieto's office said.

"The two presidents also agreed, for the moment, to no longer speak publicly about this controversial topic."

Mr Pena Nieto met Mexican politicians to discuss US relations.

"There will be constant communication between the federal executive and the Senate to define what actions to take," said Fernando Herrera of the conservative National Action Party.

Business magnate Carlos Slim called for "national unity" in the face of Mr Trump's hostility and said the country should have a measured response "without getting angry but without surrendering".

He called for a "modern, not protectionist" national programme of substituting imported products, the vast majority of which come from the United States, but stopped short of calling for a boycott of American goods.

"I think it is an error to think about boycotting companies," Mr Slim said. "What we should do instead is buy what is produced in Mexico."

A coalition of Mexican farm and consumer groups, however, did call for such a boycott when it raised the battle flag on January 18, two days before Mr Trump took office.

The campaign's slogan, "Consumers cry war!" echoes the first line of Mexico's national anthem as it calls on citizens to buy national products.

In a country where US chain restaurants, coffee shops and stores are now ubiquitous, social media users created long strings of hashtags such as #AdiosStarbucks #AdiosCostco, #AdiosWalmart, #AdiosMcDonalds, #AdiosProductosGringos , #ConsumoProductosMexicanos.

Peter Schechter, senior vice president for strategic initiatives at the Atlantic Council, said the dispute may awaken underlying currents of resentment in Mexico.

The US took away almost half of Mexico's territory in the 1848 Mexican-American War, though that historic resentment had faded in the last three decades.

"All this does is to solidify the view that an attempt to negotiate with the United States under this administration is impossible and that we should break from the United States," Mr Schechter said.

"This argument has moved from incredulous, to possible in people's minds. The next step is it moves from possible, to the right thing, and that step is not that far."

In a Washington Post opinion piece, former Mexican president Ernesto Zedillo said "the prudent thing" was to assume that Mr Trump would kill the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which he said would be costly to Mexico.

"But such an outcome should not be cause for despair in my country," he wrote, calling for Mexico to reinforce its commitment to openness and tell companies from around the world that it remained open for business.

"The end of Nafta, as disruptive and costly as it would be in the short term, could be compensated for with the right set of policies," Mr Zedillo wrote.

- AP
US President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin have agreed to work closely together and boost ties between the powers, the Kremlin said.

In their first conversation since Mr Trump took office, the Kremlin said "both sides showed their readiness for active, joint work to stabilise and develop Russian-American cooperation".
Qantas will scrap some code-sharing and loyalty points reciprocity with American Airlines, in a move that will hurt customers but the carrier says will help convince United States authorities to approve a formal tie-up between the two companies.

The Flying Kangaroo confirmed on Saturday it would re-apply to the US Department of Transportation for immunity from anti-competition laws so it can launch a lucrative but as-yet elusive joint venture with American.

The DoT indicated it would reject Qantas' first application late last year because it would concentrate too much market share. That put a brake on the deal, which involved the airlines sharing revenue and marketing costs on trans-Pacific flights and scheduling new routes between Sydney and San Francisco and Los Angeles.

Speaking in Los Angeles on Saturday (Australia time), Qantas chief executive Alan Joyce said the airlines were close to re-filing its application to the DoT.
A plant not seen alive for almost two centuries has been found on Sydney's south-west fringe, the discovery revealed only after a project proposed for the area won planning approval.

Greg Hunt, the former Federal environment minister, approved for the SIMTA Moorebank Intermodal Terminal Facility in March, 2014, but imposed conditions on the rail freight plan, including a "targeted search" for an endangered species of hibbertia flowering plants.

Thought to be extinct for almost 200 years, the newly-named Hibbertia Fumana makes a comeback. Credit:Via Nature Conservation Council

The search instead found 370 individuals of the hibbertia fumana species on the seven-hectare site, formerly owned by the military and largely untouched. The plant was thought extinct and last documented in 1823. It was only named in 2012 as a separate species from pressed specimens held in overseas vaults.

"Finding a species thought to be extinct is not something many scientists get to do in a lifetime, so this is an exciting discovery for everyone involved," said Jane Rodd, a senior ecologist with Arcadis, the consultancy hired to do the search.
Q: I'm an 86-year-old who loves his wife. I enjoy your common sense and technical advice. Some years ago, you wrote a comprehensive review of suitable personal lubricants, which I retained in my medical files. Is Sylk still your top recommendation? What is the most discreet way to purchase Sylk, or its equivalent?

A: When a woman becomes sexually aroused she produces a lubricant that facilitates penetration. The amount produced can vary, especially with ageing, and it can also be depleted by lengthy, or vigorous, intercourse, so people have also added saliva, or oils and gels. These are especially necessary for anal sex play, as this area has no natural lubrication.

Maureen Matthews Credit:Simon Schluter

For my parents' generation the petroleum jelly Vaseline was commonly used. It was greasy, smelt bad and got everywhere. Then the medical lubricant KY Jelly became popular. Odourless and non-greasy, it was still sticky and a little unpleasant. The sexual revolution ushered in the modern sex industry and suddenly a plethora of sexual lubricants hit the shelves, many of them targeting gay men. Today, you can buy all kinds of lube: flavoured, warming, cooling, stimulating, glow-in-the-dark 

However, little thought was given to any possible health risks posed by these slippery concoctions. Over time, it was noticed that some people were experiencing irritation, allergic reactions, and so on. For example, products containing sugar might be fine for anal sex, but can fuel yeast infections in women.
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From left: Australian Liberty Alliance Senate candidates Bernard Gaynor, Debbie Robinson and Kirralie Smith at the party's launch in 2015. Credit:Getty Images As it was, a confluence of events brought her to her mission. In 2000 Smith and her husband Greg, a tradesman, sought out volunteer work in Mali and there met the Assemblies of God missionary Faouzi Arzouni, whom she describes as a Muslim apostate who became a friend and mentor. Two years later the couple went on another trip, a 10-day visit to refugee camps of the displaced of what is now known as the Maluku sectarian conflict in Indonesia, during which Christian and Muslim communities fell into violent political and ethnic conflict. Smith recalls sitting in refugee camps hearing terrible stories of violence perpetrated by Muslims. Liberal senator Cory Bernardi is one of several prominent conservatives to have voiced support for Smith. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen In 2009 Smith's husband took her to a talk being given by Mark Durie, an Anglican vicar. During that lecture Durie expressed concern about buying certain supermarket products because they had been certified as halal.

Smith was intrigued and began her own investigations on the internet, learning that many brands are halal-certified, and that a portion of the fees paid for such certification is donated to Muslim charities. In other countries, Smith contends, those charities have directed funds towards groups with terrorist links. Her online investigation became a website, Halal Choices, a campaign and, with the support of Bernardi and Christensen, a parliamentary inquiry into "third party" food certification. Finally it became a political ambit, with Smith running for the ALA in a campaign launched by the anti-Islamic immigration Dutch MP Geert Wilders. A screenshot of Dutch politician Geert Wilders speaking in an anti-immigration campaign ad. Credit:YouTube "There is no question of our country being Islamified. Now, this reply constituted a historical error as soon as it was uttered," Wilders once told Dutch parliament. "I can report that they have had enough of burkas, headscarves, the ritual slaughter of animals, socalled honour revenge, blaring minarets, female circumcision, hymen restoration operations, abuse of homosexuals, Turkish and Arabic on the buses and trains as well as on town hall leaflets, halal meat at grocery shops and department stores, Sharia exams, the Finance Minister's Sharia mortgages, and the enormous over-representation of Muslims in the area of crime, including Moroccan street terrorists," Wilders said. George Christensen and Pauline Hanson in Parliament. Credit:Andrew Meares

Smith says she does not believe there is an imminent threat of adopting Sharia law, but is concerned about what she calls "creeping Sharia". "We are being encouraged very strongly to tolerate Sharia finance, halal certification, the hijab," she says. Kirralie Smith has been described as a potential leader for a new conservative movement. "Sharia is definitely present in Australia  I believe there are honour killings and it is all reported under domestic violence or another name," she says. As evidence she says she has close friends who are pastors who work in churches who have provided sanctuary to victims. But Smith's concerns are broader than creeping sharia. During the US election she was horrified by Hillary Clinton's support for abortion rights. She opposes political correctness, Safe Schools and big government regulations imposed upon farmers by distant bureaucrats.

"I pretty much oppose everything the Greens stand for," she says. She was also appalled by the Liberal Party's abandonment of Tony Abbott for Malcolm Turnbull. This broader political outlook, and Smith's articulate direct manner, has led some observers to speculate that she is a potential leader for a new conservative movement, one energised by the international populist surge. She is, says John Adams, a former Coalition adviser who has written about the need for more intellectual depth in the new conservative movement, a more capable and charismatic messenger than, say, Pauline Hanson. ("I think Pauline has a lot of good sentiment, I am not sure about the ability," says Smith of Hanson.) In the months since the campaign Smith has kept in touch with supporters via videos on her Facebook page. In them she is relentlessly bright and articulate, upbeat about Christmas and Australia Day, though scandalised by the recent billboard that showed a pair of little girls celebrating in a hijab and cheerily opposed to the "threat" of multiculturalism. She denies ever having had media training, though confesses that she is constantly asked if she has.
Will Tuck began keeping track of how much his bills have risen in the new year. It's only just gone Australia Day and he's passed $1000.

Mr Tuck, a retired journalist, has, along with 30,000 other people in NSW, this year been deemed ineligible for the age pension under a new, tougher means tests introduced by the federal government.

Pensioner Will Tuck has added up all the price rises since the government changed its means test. Credit:Jessica Hromas

So far attention has focused on the up to $10,000 a year lost by part pensioners under the changes.

But Mr Tuck says while many seniors have accepted the loss of benefits they are unaware of the substantial increases to their living costs from a loss of a wide range of concessions on bills and state government services given to pensioners.
A decommissioned Lugar pistol seized off Michael James Holt. Credit:NSW Police In a surprising turn, Holt is being represented by Muslim community advocate and lawyer Lydia Shelly. She declined to comment on the case. Deradicalisation academics have also put him in touch with a reformed white supremacist who is helping to change his views. Firearms paraphernalia found in his mother's home in Windsor. Credit:NSW Police Holt, who dropped out of a business degree at Evocca College in Gosford, is not believed to be associated with any far right groups and is largely a loner with developmental difficulties.

Until his arrest in September 2015, he divided his time between his mother's house in Windsor, his grandfather's house in nearby Hobartville and room five at the Tall Timbers pub hotel in Ourimbah. A friend said the homemade firearms made by Michael James Holt showed a high degree of skill. Credit:NSW Police In July 2015, the Firearms Squad received a tip-off that he was manufacturing homemade guns, knuckle dusters and slingshots in his grandfather's garage. A month later, when Holt attended the "Big Show" Militaria, Guns Collectibles Fair in Toowoomba, he was caught with a knife and knuckledusters and was charged by Queensland police. The caller led police to the Tall Timbers Hotel, where Holt had eight firearms hidden in the cupboards and a flick knife and slingshot in the fridge of his rented room.

Many of the homemade guns were known as "slam fire" guns, capable of firing a single shot. Pipes and other gun parts, hand drawings relating to making guns, Nazi memorabilia and white supremacy propaganda were also found. "Of particular concern, it was reported that the offender often talked about loading weapons into his vehicle and driving to a very public place where he would 'just start shooting it up' most recently saying he wanted to do this to Westfields at Tuggerah," the statement of facts said. After his arrest in September 2015, a raid of his mother's home unearthed knuckle dusters, sling shots, gun parts, ammunition and a further nine unregistered or imitation pistols including a loaded "slam fire" gun on a lounge-room table that children had access to. Holt has Asperger's syndrome and low intellectual capability yet was described by one friend as an angry "genius" whose homemade guns showed incredible skill.

He had several books and diagrams on gun manufacturing and had "liked" many YouTube tutorials. On one online profile, he described himself as "anti-system, anti-religion, anti-politics, pro-gun" and professes a love of "shotgun death metal music" and heavy metal tracks with titles like "End It With A Shotgun" and "Carnal Decay". He listed his job as boss of the Reaper's Disciples Private Security Company and wrote: "I will do anything for those i love" and "Ausfailia can go to Hell". A friend of Holt's, who never met him but spent hours talking to him on pro-libertarian forums, said he was an angry man who had "zero tolerance for government oppression and overbearing nanny state interference". He said Holt had previously been persecuted by authorities and had a mental state "which would easily be radicalised".

"Obviously he fell through the cracks when he just needed some help, everyone became his enemy," the friend, who didn't want to be named, said. "He ended up looking like he must've been one of those Asperger's genius people after I saw police pictures of home-made contraptions he engineered." He said Holt made no secret of his neo-Nazi views. "Should it be wrong to be proud of a Teutonic heritage? No. However, being proud to be who you are if you are white instantly gets one a stigma if mentioned in public. Asperger's obviously has little comprehension of this," he said. He believed Holt liked owning guns because it made him realise he was "a slave to no tyrannical government". However, he had been banned from holding a licence because of his troubled youth.

Court documents state that Holt first attracted police attention at 15 when he was seen walking around local shops with a pistol that turned out to be a toy. He was caught with three knives at school in 2005 and had concerning social media posts passed on to police in 2014 and 2015. "I honestly don't think he would act out anything evil," the friend said. "Just a big mouth with no political correctness filter." While Sunni Islamist extremism is the major terrorism threat facing Australia, violent anti-Islamic and white nationalist extremism is growing, ASIO director Duncan Lewis said last year. "It has come off a low base. But it has presented, really, probably in the last 18 months or so," he told a senate hearing.

In August, Melbourne man Phillip Galea became the first right-wing extremist to be charged with terrorism offences, triggering experts to warn about public complacency. Greg Barton, counter-terrorism expert at Deakin University, said political developments in Europe and America were fanning the existing flames of extremism in Australia. "One of the things you want Australians to pay attention to is recognising that hateful speech and incitement to hatred in the political field is not just something that remains a political play," he said. "It has the potential to give people a sense of a green light to be more outrageous in their opinions and eventually those individuals have some sort of social license to try some sort of attack." Much like other forms of extremism, he said vulnerable young people looking for a sense of belonging are targeted by recruiters. However, others may have no "visible network on the ground" but extensive online activity.
A Muay Thai fighter has surrendered himself to police and been charged after allegedly punching a father and his daughter in the head during a road rage attack.

Nerang man Nathan Harris, 52, was knocked out and his 20-year-old daughter also allegedly assaulted at Surfers Paradise on Saturday afternoon.

Marsden man Daniel Valusaga, nominated for male pro fighter of the year in the 2015 Australian Muay Thai awards, handed himself in at Southport Police Station on Sunday.

A police spokesman said the victims' car had pulled over and the driver behind began using his horn in frustration.
A motorcyclist is in a critical condition in hospital after crashing into a traffic sign on the Gold Coast on Friday evening.

Police said the 69-year-old man was riding east along Hope Island Road in Helensvale about 5pm when he hit the sign.

Police investigations into the cause of the crash are continuing. Credit:Marina Neil/Fairfax Media

He was taken to Gold Coast University Hospital in critical condition suffering from serious injuries.

The cause of crash is still under investigation by the Forensic Crash Unit.
Dreamworld CEO Craig Davidson has assured the theme park's patrons a glitch that left thrillseekers stranded on one of its most popular rides on Friday is nothing to worry about.

An automatic sensor is believed to have triggered the brief shutdown that left riders dangling at the top of the 119-metre Giant Drop for about five minutes on Friday, just hours after the ride's reopening.

An automatic sensor is believed to have triggered the brief shutdown of the Giant Drop at Dreamworld on Friday.

But no fault was discovered and Mr Davidson said the incident showed the ride was operating as it should.

"There will always be glitches, we see that on any amusement park in the world and we're no different," he said on Saturday.
One Nation senator Pauline Hanson has hit back at fresh criticism about the influence of her chief of staff James Ashby from a candidate dumped over a controversial website post.

Peter Rogers, who was axed as the party's candidate for the Queensland seat of Mulgrave on Friday night, claimed Ms Hanson and One Nation had fallen under the control of Mr Ashby.

"I have the final say on who represents One Nation," Pauline Hanson tweeted on Saturday. Credit:Lisa Maree Williams

"My personal view is Pauline is the puppet and he (James) is the puppeteer," he said on Saturday.

Ms Hanson took to social media to dismiss Mr Rogers' claims.
First aid-trained Victorians could soon be called to handle triple-0 medical emergencies via a new mobile phone app.

Under the plan being developed by Ambulance Victoria, the app would notify the "trusted respondents" when somebody nearby had suffered a heart attack.

Responders would be notified when someone nearby was having a heart attack. Credit: supplied

The responders would be given the location of the patient and sent to provide CPR, as well as being alerted to the location of the nearest public defibrillator.

Paramedics would simultaneously be sent to treat the patient.
A salvage operation is underway on Perth's Swan River to lift out wreckage of a seaplane that crashed during Australia Day celebrations, as new details emerge about the events leading up to the tragedy.

The WA Department of Transport is leading the delicate operation that began on Friday afternoon and started with the removal of the plane's tail, along with the fuel tanks.

"Our primary concern is maintaining the integrity of the site and wreckage for the purposes of the investigation by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau," Ray Buchholz from the Department of Transport said.

A dive team has already assessed the site and a crane, barge and a pollution response vessel are being used to extract the twisted metal.
Hong Kong: You might call it a Noah's Ark for an era of melting polar ice sheets.

An audacious plan to respond to climate change by building a city of floating islands in the South Pacific is moving forward, with the government of French Polynesia agreeing to consider hosting the islands in a tropical lagoon.

An artist's impression of a floating island project in French Polynesia. Credit:Seasteading Institute

The project is being put forward by a California nonprofit, the Seasteading Institute, which has raised about $US2.5 million from more than 1000 interested donors. Randolph Hencken, the group's executive director, said work on the project could start in French Polynesia as early as next year, pending the results of some environmental and economic feasibility studies.

"We have a vision that we're going to create an industry that provides floating islands to people who are threatened by rising sea levels," Hencken said.
COLUMBUS  A 25-year-old Columbus woman who was driving under the influence of alcohol when she killed a St. Edward man in a two-vehicle collision near Tarnov last summer will avoid time behind bars.

Mikala Phillips entered separate no contest pleas to motor vehicle homicide and first-offense DUI in Platte County Court in a deal worked out with the prosecution that stipulates she will receive the maximum term of probation allowable on the charges.

Judge Frank Skorupa scheduled Phillips for sentencing March 8.

William Bill J. Sorensen, 33, was killed in the two-vehicle collision that occurred shortly before 11 p.m. June 9 on 385th Street near Tarnov.

Phillips was initially charged with motor vehicle homicide while driving under the influence of alcohol, a Class 2A felony with a maximum penalty of 20 years imprisonment.

Charged separately, Phillips agreed to plead to motor vehicle homicide, a Class I misdemeanor with a maximum sentence of one year in jail and a $1,000 fine, and DUI, a Class W misdemeanor that carries a maximum penalty of 60 days in jail.

Chief Deputy County Attorney Breanna Anderson said the negotiated plea with Phillips requires the city woman to be sentenced to the maximum term of probation on each charge, running consecutively, and continue counseling until being discharged by a therapist.

Other probation terms stipulate Phillips wear a bracelet for continuous alcohol monitoring for 90 days, follow any aftercare recommendations and attend AA/NA meetings. Additionally, she will be required to attend a victim impact panel, the Crime Victim Impact/Offender Accountability Class and Victim Offender Mediation, if requested by the Sorensen family.

The victims family members, who were most interested in Phillips being under probation supervision for the longest possible time, were satisfied with the terms of the plea agreement, Anderson said.
Washington: President Trump has closed America's borders to refugees from around the world, ordering that families fleeing the slaughter in Syria be indefinitely blocked from entering the United States, and temporarily suspending immigration from several predominantly Muslim countries.

In an executive order that he said was part of an extreme vetting plan to keep out "radical Islamic terrorists," Mr Trump also established a religious test for refugees from Muslim nations: He ordered that Christians and others from minority religions be granted priority over Muslims.

"We don't want them here," Mr Trump said of Islamist terrorists during a signing ceremony at the Pentagon. "We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas. We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country, and love deeply our people."

Earlier in the day, Mr Trump explained to an interviewer for the Christian Broadcasting Network that Christians in Syria were "horribly treated" and alleged that under previous administrations, "if you were a Muslim you could come in, but if you were a Christian, it was almost impossible".
Paris: Restaurants in France face prosecution starting today if they offer unlimited fizzy drinks to customers in the latest Gallic crackdown on obesity.

France had already enforced a tax on sweet drinks in 2012. Now, a new decree makes it illegal to sell unlimited amounts of drinks with sugar or sweetener at a fixed price or for free.

The ban, which was published in the government's Journal Officiel website on Thursday and came into force on Friday, applies to all soft drinks "fountains" in areas open to the public, including restaurants, fast food chains, schools and holiday camps. It outlaws unlimited "flavoured fizzy and non-fizzy drinks, concentrated drinks like fruit syrups, drinks based on water, milk, cereal, vegetables or fruit", but also "sports and energy drinks, fruit nectar, vegetable nectar and similar products".

Ikea, the home improvement chain, has removed drink fountains from its 33 centres around France, but other vendors, including the fast food chain Quick, waited until Friday to change their drink fountain set-up.
US President Donald Trump after signing the first executive order banning refugees and people from some Muslim-majority countries. Credit:Bloomberg Judge Ann Donnelly of the US District Court in New York made the order on Saturday. Mr Trump's order, which suspends entry of all refugees to the United States for 120 days, created a legal limbo for individuals on the way to the United States and panic for families who were awaiting their arrival. The order has also thrown into doubt a US agreement to resettle refugees from Australian detention centres. The executive order, which Mr Trump said was part of an extreme vetting plan to keep out "radical Islamic terrorists," also established a religious test for refugees from Muslim nations: he ordered that Christians and others from minority religions be granted priority over Muslims. Mr Trump's order stops the admission of refugees from Syria indefinitely and it bars entry into the United States for 90 days from anyone from seven predominantly Muslim countries: Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen.

Under the ban, Iranian filmmaker Asghar Farhadi, whose film The Salesman has been nominated for an Academy Award, will not be able to attend the Hollywood ceremony next month. Mr Trump's order will make it virtually impossible for relatives and friends of an estimated one million Iranian-Americans to visit the United States. Many fear the immigration ban will only stoke anti-American sentiment in these countries and damage relationships to fight the threat of terrorism. "It is basically sending a positive signal to people who hate this country, because now ISIS gets to say: 'See? They don't want you'," said Keith Ellison, who became the first Muslim member of Congress in 2007. "They get to whip up hate and anti-American sentiment." Iran hits back with reciprocal ban

Iran announced on Saturday said it would impose a reciprocal ban on US citizens travelling to Iran, calling the US action "offensive". The country's official Islamic Republic News Agency in a report on Saturday said the executive order was a "visible insult" to Muslims and called it "a gift to extremists". Iran "will reciprocate with legal, consular and political undertakings," according to the report. The US ban extends to people already holding green cards that have until now made them legal permanent US residents, said Gillian Christensen, a Department of Homeland Security spokeswoman. It was unclear how many immigrants and refugees were being held nationwide in the aftermath of the executive order, but the move essentially restricts some green card holders from leaving the US for fear of being barred re-entry Officials were also stopping travellers with dual Canadian and Iranian citizenship from boarding planes in Canada that were headed the United States, said Mana Yegani, an immigration lawyer in Houston who works with the American Immigration Lawyers Association.

"These are people that are coming in legally. They have jobs here and they have vehicles here," she said. "Just because Trump signed something at 6pm yesterday, things are coming to a crashing halt. It's scary." Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau hit back on Twitter with a welcome message to all fleeing persecution. Immediate legal challenge Formal legal complaints were filed by a prominent group including the American Civil Liberties Union, the International Refugee Assistance Project at the Urban Justice Centre, the National Immigration Law Centre, Yale Law School's Jerome N Frank Legal Services Organisation and the firm Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton.

The lawyers said that one of the Iraqis detained at Kennedy Airport, Hameed Khalid Darweesh, had worked on behalf of the US government in Iraq for 10 years. The other, Haider Sameer Abdulkhaleq Alshawi, was coming to the United States to join his wife, who had worked for a US contractor, and young son, the lawyers said. They said both men were detained at the airport on Friday night after arriving on separate flights. The attorneys said they were not allowed to meet with their clients and there were tense moments as they tried to reach them. "Who is the person we need to talk to?" asked one of the lawyers, Mark Doss, supervising attorney at the International Refugee Assistance Project. "Mr President," said a Customs and Border Protection agent, who declined to identify himself. "Call Mr Trump." In the arrivals hall at Terminal 4 of Kennedy Airport, Mr Doss and two other lawyers fought fatigue as they tried to learn the status of their clients on the other side of the security perimeter.

"We've never had an issue once one of our clients was at a port of entry in the United States," Mr Doss said. "To see people being detained indefinitely in the country that's supposed to welcome them is a total shock. "These are people with valid visas and legitimate refugee claims who have already been determined by the State Department and the Department of Homeland Security to be admissible and to be allowed to enter the US and now are being unlawfully detained." A supervisor for Customs and Border Protection at Kennedy Airport declined to comment, referring questions to public affairs officials. Calls to officials in Washington and New York were not returned on Saturday. Families broken apart According to the filing, Hameed Khalid Darweesh was granted a special immigrant visa on January 20, the same day as Mr Trump's inauguration. He worked with the United States in Iraq in a variety of jobs as an interpreter, engineer and contractor over the course of roughly a decade.

Mr Darweesh worked as an interpreter for the Army's 101st Airborne Division in Baghdad and Mosul starting shortly after the invasion of Iraq on April 1, 2003. The filing said that he was directly targeted twice for working with the US military. A husband and father of three, he arrived at Kennedy Airport on Friday evening with his family. Mr Darweesh's wife and children made it through passport control and customs, but agents of Customs and Border Protection stopped and detained him. He was released from custody on Saturday after almost 19 hours in detention. Emerging from the airport and speaking to reporters, he mimicked being put in handcuffs with his hands behind his back. "What I do for this country? They put the cuffs on," Mr Darweesh said. "You know how many soldiers I touch by this hand?"

A infantry officer who worked with Mr Darweesh in 2003 in the Army's 101st Airborne Division said Trump's order was putting US troops in danger as it removed the incentive for people like Mr Darweesh to work with them. "This is a guy who has done a lot more for this country than most people who were born here," Brandon Friedman told The Washington Post. Mr Alshawi was supposed to be reunited with his wife, who has been living in Texas. His wife, who asked to be identified by her first initial of D out of concern for her and her family's safety, wiped away tears as she sat on a couch in her sister's house in a Houston suburb early on Saturday. The woman, a 32-year-old who was born in Iraq, met her husband while both were students at a Baghdad college. The couple has one child, a seven-year-old son, who is in first grade. The boy was asleep in the house at 3am local time on Saturday, oblivious to the fact that his father was in the United States, but under detention and the possible threat of return to Iraq. Relatives crowded the living room in their pyjamas and slippers, making and receiving phone calls to and from other relatives and the refugee's lawyers. At times, D was so emotional she had trouble speaking about her husband's predicament.

She pulled out her mobile phone and flipped through her pictures while seated on the couch. She wanted to show a reporter a picture she took of her son's letter to Santa Claus. In November, at a Macy's Santa-letter display at a nearby mall, the boy wrote out his wish: "Dear Santa: Can you bring my Dad from Sweden pls." He has not seen his father in three years. "I'm really breaking down, because I don't know what to do," she said. "It's not fair." It is a similar sentiment felt by refugee families abroad who had been days and even hours away from boarding a plane to finally be resettled in the US. Danielle Drake, from US Together, a refugee settlement agency, pointed out the timing of Mr Trump's controversial order coincided with Holocaust Remembrance Day.
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FIND OUT WHAT'S ON NEAR YOU WITH OUR NEWSLETTER

With the weather what it is, were all looking for a bit of warmth and comfort. And that is something that we Brits do better than anyone.

And the same can be said for Bristol - in a big way.

We love a good roast dinner. Sunday lunch is the most important meal of the week for many.

But, while many of us think we are dab hands in the kitchen, sometimes its nice to get others to don the apron for you.

So we have picked our favourite places where you can get a proper and decent Sunday lunch.

If we missed your favourite, Please tell us your recommendations in the comments below. So pile on the roasties, pass the gravy and tuck in

The Victoria Park

The Victoria Park, a popular gastropub just off Victoria Park, demonstrates the ever-thriving nature of the areas culinary scene.This family-friendly pub offers a selection of lunches of varying sizes all at appropriate prices.

The bigger lunches include a cider and fennel seed braised pork belly, apple sauce and crackling. All roasts are served with roast potatoes, Yorkshire puddings, greens, roasted root vegetables, carrots and lashings of gravy.On average these mains cost around 15 and can be ordered on their own.

Click here for further details.

The Vittoria

Situated on Whiteladies Road, The Vittoria, is a pub that prides itself on its old fashioned hospitality as well as providing food with a modern twist.

Their Sunday roast is more than enough reward for the trek up to Whiteladies Road and the deal can be sweetened further if you consider the fact students and Whiteladies Road workers get a discounts, which can save you 10 per cent on all drinks orders if you fulfil either of the criteria.

The roasts are 10 and its walk-ins only so you dont have to book, just turn up and hope theres a table.

Click here for further details.

Volunteer Tavern

Occupying a 340-year-old building only a stones throw away from Cabot Circus, the Volunteer Tavern makes its way onto our list for the great value of their Sunday roasts.They offer two to three meat options each week, along with a vegetarian and vegan roast.

Trimmings include homemade Yorkshire puds and a whole host of veg - and the best bit? The chicken and pork roast dinners are capped at 10.For non meat eaters, the nut roast can be served vegetarian or vegan if you notify them when you order it.

Click here for further details.

The Spotted Cow

Bedminsters very own Spotted Cow offers up the traditional Sunday lunch and trimmings at reasonable prices, with a standard main costing between 10.95 for the walnut, cashew and sweet potato nut roast and 14.50 for the Hereford Cross beef sirloin with Yorkshire pudding, horseradish sauce, roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables and rich gravy.

Its a spacious pub but booking is still advisable, although the huge garden is the place to head when the weathers warmer.

Click here for further details.

The Lazy Dog

(Image: Dave Betts)

The Lazy Dog off Gloucester Road is a pub that understands the importance of the tradition of the hearty British Sunday lunch.

Using fresh and locally sourced produce to deliver quality lunchtime meals all week long, the Lazy Dog's Sunday roast is the hearty meal you need to round off your week, especially as winter begins to rear its head.

The Sunday options great value, where you would expect to pay 10.95 for the butternut, spinach and mushroom Wellington or around 14 for roast dry-aged rib-eye of beef.

Click here for further details.

The Pony and Trap

(Image: Jon Craig)

OK, its technically in the Chew Valley but The Pony and Trap still has a Bristol postcode and how can we not include a local pub that has a prestigious Michelin star?

Josh Eggletons pub is a place to enjoy the high quality, locally grown produce grown at and delivered in each day by the Community Farm at Chew Manga.

These local sourced ingredients are transformed into a variety of dishes not forgetting the traditional three course Sunday roast.The Pony and Trap offers Sunday lunch classics, including fish and vegetarian options in addition to a starter, dessert and cheese plate for 30 (two courses) or 35 for three courses.

Click here for further details.

The Grace

One of Gloucester Roads finest, The Grace offers a wide selection of local ales and ciders, as well as a menu comprising locally-sourced ingredients.

The roasts include Hereford rump and duck fat roast potatoes, and a vegetable pithivier with roast potatoes, all for reasonable prices, rarely exceeding 15 for a main dish. Wash it down with a pint of craft beer or the pubs now legendary Bloody Mary.

Click here for further details.

The Cowshed

Something of a Whiteladies Road veteran now, The Cowshed offers an a la carte Sunday Lunch menu much to the delight of meat lovers everywhere.Roast chicken, beef, lamb and pork are on offer as well as the numerous cuts of steak that the Cowshed is best known for seven days a week.Options are provided for non-meat eaters but the choice is more limited.

The Sunday roasts cost 16.95 for one course, 21.50 for two courses, 27.50 for three courses.

Click here for further details.

The Cauldron

Unique in that the kitchen doesnt use gas but relies of wood-fired ovens and a Victorian cast iron range, The Cauldron in St Werburghs is now one of the coolest places in Bristol for Sunday lunch.

Local produce, including vegetables literally grown down the road, is the driving force of the menu, which might include cherry wood-roasted sirloin of Hereford Cross beef or free-range pork griskin and real deal crackling.

Non meat-eaters can enjoy innovative mains such as apricot, cranberry and walnut polenta cake. Either way, leave room for the baked bread and butter pudding with rhubarb compote.Click here for further details.

The Knowle

This imposing former hotel overlooking Knowle and Brislington has become a go-to place for Sunday lunch since it reopened under new owners (the same team behind The Grace on Gloucester Road, The Alma in Clifton, the Westbury Park in Henleaze and The Greenbank in Easton).

Served from 12pm until 6pm, the Sunday roast choice includes 30-day aged roast topside of beef; roast loin of pork; slow-roast leg of lamb or red pepper and sweet potato strudel served with all the usual trimmings.

Prices range from 11 to 13, and theres a good size garden for the warmer months.Click here for further details.
The Friends of the Columbus Public Library are delighted to present Mr. Joe Starita at 2 p.m. Feb. 12 in the Columbus Art Gallery, lower level of the library.

Starita will be speaking about his new book, A Warrior of the People: How Susan La Flesche Overcame Racial and Gender Inequality to Become America's First Indian Doctor."

Inspirational, determined, courageous; these are just some of the words used to describe Dr. Susan La Flesche, who received her medical degree in 1889. If you are not familiar with her story, Starita hopes his new book and its companion, the recent PBS documentary, Medicine Woman, will change that.

It is the story of how Susan went from her birth in a hide teepee on the Omaha Reservation in northeast Nebraska, to becoming valedictorian of her medical school class. After she graduated, she returned to her people on the Omaha Reservation and served over 1,200 patients in an area of over 1,300 square miles. She also built the first hospital on a reservation that was completely privately funded.

Starita is also a Nebraska native. For the last 12 years, he has been a journalism professor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. You may remember him from the last time he was in Columbus, speaking about his book, I Am A Man: Chief Standing Bears Journey for Justice. That book led to over 150 speaking engagements for Starita, including C-Spans Book Talk. He has been nominated for a Pulitzer Prize twice.

This program is funded by the Friends and by Humanities Nebraska.

Addictive, fun, great deals. These are some of the words that have been used to describe the Friends of the Columbus Public Librarys biannual book sales. The next sale is coming up Super Bowl weekend. It begins at 6 p.m. Thursday and continues while the library is open until 5 p.m. Feb. 5. Reminder flyers are available at the librarys circulation desk.

There is always a wide variety of materials available for sale, and this time is no different. Some of them are so special they make it on our staff picks shelf. The following are a few of these gems.

Spymaster: My Life in the CIA by Ted Shackley is a must-read for any espionage buff. Ted Shackley was a giant in the intelligence world, but did he tell the whole story? You be the judge.

Fans of Bing Crosby, Ingrid Bergman, or just old movies in general will be thrilled by The Bells of St. Marys by George Martin. It is a novelization of the famous movie, laced with photographs from the film.

The most surprising recent donation was a book called, Fighting the Traffic in Young Girls: Or, War on the White Slave Trade by Earnest A. Bell, copyrighted 1910. This classic work has been reprinted many times.

The book sale has something for everyone, but this upcoming sale has an unusually large number of cookbooks and Christian nonfiction books. Come and see what you can find!
HS Football: North Penn upsets Pennsbury in instant playoff classic

With the game on the line, North Penn coach Dick Beck opted to go for the win with a two-point conversion attempt against Pennsbury.
Yardley Friends Meeting at 65 N. Main Street in Yardley will host the documentary Organic Roots on Friday, November 18 at 7 p.m. Join director Al Johnson for a showing of this film followed by a discussion of the last 50 years of this movement. Organic foods are part of our life today and a tool in our concern for...
LINCOLN  Since the dawn of time, Tim Thomssen said, beer has required four key ingredients. Lite is not one of them.

"Malted barley, water, yeast, hops are the four ingredients that define beer," said Thomssen, head brewer at Boiler Brewing Company, 129 N. 10th St., No. 8. "And only since Louis Pasteur have we recognized (yeast). For millennia, brewers made beer kind of like a sourdough -- they just kind of repitched a little bit of the successful batch into the next one. And I dont know if it was an offering to the gods, or how they thought of it, but they were repitching yeast and they didnt know it."

The Cornhusker States pioneers might have succeeded in brewing up some beer that included all the main ingredients, said Thomssen, a fifth-generation Nebraskan. But hes pretty confident that Boiler Brewing's latest offering, Nebraska Native, is the first-ever craft beer made entirely from Nebraska-grown products. He is certain that this is his moon landing. And he said he couldn't have done it without luck and friends.

Here, ranked by degree of difficulty in locating them, are the ingredients that went into Nebraska Native, and the people who helped Thomssen along the way.

1A, barley. Technically, yeast should probably be ranked the most difficult ingredient to get in Nebraska, Thomssen said. Acquiring wild yeast typically involves foraging, trial-and-error, pure luck or some combination of the three. But Thomssen wouldnt have ever considered the idea of making an all-Nebraska brew without a malted barley producer walking into Boiler Brewing Company and shattering notions of what was and wasnt available around here. So malted barley gets top billing today.

In the early part of last summer, Zach Davy introduced himself to Thomssen at Boiler Brewing and volunteered that he was trying to get a malted barley company going in Nebraska. He had a family farm up by the South Dakota border, in Lynch, and lives in Omaha, where his malting company, Missouri Valley Malt (facebook.com/MissouriValleyMalt) is based.

So he stops in the bar one day and says, Hey man, would you be interested in Nebraska-grown malted barley? Thomssen recalled. Im like, Hell yeah, I would. Because theres no Nebraska-available malted barley. Theres no malting company. There is barley grown in Nebraska, but its not being malted.

It only took about a millisecond to realize what I would do with Nebraska-malted barley. I would make an all-Nebraska beer. I didnt have to think about it. So I cant claim to be smart or visionary. Maybe opportunistic is the word.

1B, yeast. Think about the dusty white fuzz that covers a blueberry.

That (fuzz) youre looking at is wild yeast, Thomssen said. Thats its ecosystem. It hangs out on the skin of a fruit, and its a spoilage organism for a fruit. Eventually the skin breaks down, it gets in there and it can consume the sugar from the fruit.

Its blowing everywhere, he said, Nebraska included.

Its very common, but -- theres a big but," Thomssen said. Youve got a couple things going against you when youre foraging for wild yeast -- its either gonna taste bad or its not going to ferment beer, or both. So youve got to get lucky to get both of those factors.

Or you could be friends with a microbiologist.

Some five years ago, Thomssen, a Lincoln Lagers member well before Boiler Brewing Company opened downtown, was at a fellow homebrewer's place for a club meeting/brewing session. During that gathering, the Lagers later determined, the English ale Kim Theesen was brewing was contaminated by some wild yeast. (There were 80 apple trees on the property, and the owner, Doug Finke, had just made cider.)

Months later, when they cracked open bottles of Theesen's beers made during that gathering, the English ale didn't taste at all like an English ale.

It had these wild, funky, earthy, tropical fruit and citrus flavors that were unexplained and not supposed to be there," Thomssen said.

Before they dumped the beer in the sink, Jason McLaughlin, a Lager and certified cicerone, said to hold that thought.

The carnival of flavors that wild fermentation yeast sometimes brings to the brewing process are more and more attracting -- and these are Thomssen's words, spoken proudly -- "the nerds."

"Adventurous brewers and adventurous drinkers like Brettanomyces," he said, referencing a specific type of wild yeast. "It produces new and unusual flavors that you are not accustomed to having in beer.

McLlaughlin said this botched English ale hid some of those qualities, and suggested holding onto a yeast sample from that brew for further experimentation. A sample ended up in the freezer of Aaron Carnes for the next five years.

He is a talented homebrewer and, conveniently, a microbiologist, Thomssen said of Carnes. So hes a guy you want in your corner on a project like this.

"I had forgotten about this wild yeast. So I said: Hey Aaron, Im thinking about trying to forage for wild yeast. Is this something youd be willing to collaborate with us on doing?' He said: 'Yeah, Id love to. By the way, remember that wild Brett from (Doug) Finkes house five years ago? Ive still got that in the freezer.'

Carnes was able to isolate the funky yeast and it ever-so-slowly fermented in a trial run.

"It was at that point we knew it was going to make beer," Thomssen said. "Its happening. We can do this. 

2, hops. Compared to yeast, hops is cake.

Well in Nebraska, there is a pretty good hop industry, Thomssen said. Its young, but its growing -- theres (farmers) growing hops. You can get Nebraska-grown hops, no problem at all.

For the Nebraska Native, Thomssen didnt have to look far. At all.

The hops is from my neighbor," said Thomssen, who lives on an acreage west of town.

3, water. The waters the easy one, Thomssen said. You just turn on the faucet.

Bonus ingredient: Aronia berries. You dont need aronia berries, aka chokeberries, to brew a beer. In fact, many brewers would shy from the sour-tasting berry. But for a unique Nebraska-centric offering with weird, wild reanimated yeast and experimental barley, the berry belonged. Thomssen got his from Herz Aronia Farm in Plattsmouth.

"Thats just one more ingredient that will make it more interesting, more local and a pretty color," he said. "It turns out its kind of a rose.

The final product, Nebraska to its core, filled two 31-gallon barrels. Boiler Brewing Company will begin selling the small batch of 32-ounce Nebraska Native bottles on Jan. 23.

Thomssen said the people who helped him create this beer might get an early sample, though.

Were definitely going to treat our friends right, Thomssen said. Because we couldnt have done it without our friends.
Where Andy Kim, Bob Healey stand on abortion, inflation and more

The USA TODAY Network New Jersey asked Andy Kim and Bob Healey where they stand on key issues in the midterms. Here's what they said.
Last week, I started a series of articles about cash rent for farmland for 2017. I talked about the important questions for landlords and tenants. I reminded both parties that good stewardship of the land should be our first priority as we talk about the land lease.

This week we focus on trust. Good cropland leases are based on trust between the two parties. Without trust between the landlord and tenant, a sound written contract does not carry the same weight involving mutual respect between the two parties.

If trust between the tenant and landlord does not exist or cannot be repaired, the lease should be terminated and a different tenant would be recruited. Poor communication serves as one of the main reason for a lack of trust.

Neither the landlord nor tenant should feel like the other party has more power in the leasing negotiation.

Sometimes, landlords feel that the tenant withholds information about their ground, thus making it difficult for them to set an appropriate rental rate. Landlords may want to get specific information on the productivity of the ground including crop yields or soil tests.

If the landlord wants production information, it is appropriate to ask for that with a clause written in the lease. Through proper communication, this should be the type of information that a tenant would share with the landlord. Still, if this type of information is not readily shared between the two parties, then a provision could be put in as a contingency of the lease.

For landlords, the communication also needs to include any expectations for practices used or that you want used on your land. This means you need to communicate about specific weed control expectations or no-till or organic production (as examples) if you have strong feelings about those practices. These expectations can also be outlined in a written lease provision.

Just as common, the tenant feels that the landlord has all the power in the lease negotiation. The feeling is if the tenant does not give the landlord exactly what he or she wants for lease terms, the lease will be terminated. In some neighborhoods of Nebraska, the demand for farms to lease far exceeds supply. Losing a land lease contract is a common fear among many tenants.

For the tenant, specific communication needs need to be addressed. Tenants need to keep landlords up-to-date with things like current prices, cost of equipment, repairs, seed, fertilizer, insecticides, herbicides, etc., with the main goal of keeping the landlord informed on true cost per bushel for production relative to current prices heading into 2017.

In a contract, there should not be any winner or loser. Both parties need to communicate their needs, realistic crop budgeting and realistic yield goals when determining how to set an economically viable rental rate.

Reminder: The Grain Marketing Workshop is scheduled for Feb. 6. It is free and will be at Pinnacle Bank (east) in Columbus. The program goes from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call the office it register so we can plan for handouts and the meal. Pinnacle Bank is the meal sponsor and the host for that workshop.
Every morning, billionaire drives down to his office in Omaha, Nebraska, in his 2014 Cadillac XTC. One of the good things of the five-minute-trip is the McDonalds where he has breakfasts.
SBI Card, a subsidiary of the State Bank of India, is aiming at increasing its co-branded card business, on expectations of replicating the robust performance of its partnership with the Future group.
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Union Pharmaceutical Minister Ananth Kumar on Saturday said the centre would issue a notification to control the prices of cardiac stents, an artificial tube inserted in the human heart for proper blood circulation.
Lokendra Singh Kalvi, of Rajput Kari Sena said "We told him(Bhansali) clearly, we wouldn't even allow a dream sequence between Alauddin and Padmini. In a meeting with Bhansali, I showed him one of Ranveer's interview suggesting such a development. Bhansali was also visibly shocked, and now they have asked for two days to answer us."

Kalvi further said a distortion of history would not be tolerated by the Rajput Karni sena.

"We would be skeptical until the film is out" adding also the question as to with whose permission were they allowed to shoot at the Jaigarh fort.

"We had actually planned to protest against the filming tomorrow, but then we found out that the shooting is on in Jaigarh who's permission did they have? Jaigarh's owner, Police, forest? Nobody's.

"Kalvi said that he has already filed his objection before the Rajasthan High Court, Information and Broadcast Ministry, and Censor board. "

Refusing to apologise and placing the blame on Bhansali, Kalvi said the Sena were provoked into taking progressive action.

"Yesterday, when we wanted to meet him, they called for an air-firing, three of our children were injured. If you try to incite a Rajput by arms and force it's your biggest mistake.I demand a CBI probe into the matter proving only that the Rajput forces are at fault and none of Bhansali's crew. Only reason yesterday's fiasco was their crew and security team", he added

He said, "Bhansali himself told me yesterday to forget the morning incident, but I told him, I can very well forget the incident, but I won't forget history."

He said, ''I come from the same legacy, even in the 28th generation, it's a matter of life and death if we tolerate such things. I am very proud of my heritage. We should all feel honoured as it's a god gift, and we must preserve it ".

He also urged all Hindu religious groups apart from Rajputs, not to tolerate and rise up against Bhansali's meddling with the great legacy.

He said, "My history teacher Dr Bhargav, told me that these motely crew sitting Mumbai only understand the language of two things, either of Chandi (money) or Joota(shoes). I urged Shyam Bengal to take a call which mode will he prefer. All I am requesting them to do is to be mindful of history, in the building in which our ancestors laid down their lives. The pious queen who sacrificed herself with 16,000 queens, how can she dance with Alauddin Khilji in a dream."

Bhansali was manhandled in broad daylight on Friday.

Rajasthan Home Minister Gulab Singh Kataria condemned the incident and said that a probe would be initiated.

Twitter is abuzz with the comments and reactions of various Bollywood celebrities, including Hrithik Roshan, Karan Johar and Sonam Kapoor to support the 'Padmavati' director.
The Delhi edition of the Great Britain Debate organised by the British High Commission and hosted by the Lady Sri Ram College was won by Anmol Sharma and Sidaq Batra of . The runners up were Pratyaksha Jha and Aritro Bose of Ashoka University.

The audience witnessed a high intensity and quality competition among 32 top debating teams from across universities and colleges in Delhi who spoke for and against topics on gender equality and sustainable development.

At the event, Hannah Cockburn, Head of Political and Bilateral Affairs, British High Commission said:

"This is the fourth consecutive year that we have conducted the Great Britain Debate. We are delighted this time to have been able to increase our nationwide footprint to include debaters from across the country. I am happy to have heard some of the fine voices of the next generation. The youth of India are important constituents of a 'Living Bridge' between UK and India. I congratulate the winners and urge all of the participants to use the Great Britain Debate as a springboard to go and achieve great things for India.

"Just like the debating competition, the prize is also special. Each element of the prize has been carefully handpicked to enable the winning team's journey to success through knowledge and education. Winners of the Great Britain Debate will get a Kindle, annual British Council Library membership, 'HeySuccess' premium membership. Most importantly they will get an exclusive opportunity to meet and interact with Sir Dominic Asquith KCMG, British High Commissioner to India."

Organised by the British High Commission network in India, the Great Britain Debate competition is one of the biggest since its conception. In its 4th edition, the competition is being held in eight cities - Bhopal, Visakhapatnam, Hyderabad, Delhi, Kolkata, Dehradun, Jaipur and Patiala.

The debate is being organised in association with Chevening Scholarships.
Thirteen companies have signed memoranda of understanding (MOUs) with to invest Rs 600 crore in the integrated business city in Andhra Pradesh.

The MoUs were signed at the CII Partnership Summit, which concluded here on Saturday.

The agreements are expected to create employment for about 2,000 people.

The 13 companies which inked the agreements with are from different sectors.

They are: Windar Renewables (Energy); Mahabal Metals and Proto D (Engineering); MCNS (Industrial Chemicals); IRMRA (R&D); Blue Star (Consumer durables); TCI and Snowman Logistics (Logistics Solutions); Manpasand Beverages, Mabalam Iyers, Sri Lakshmi Agro, Shrisym Technologies and Premium Ingredients (all in food processing sector).

While Manpasand Beverages will invest Rs 150 crore, Windar Renewables, a Spanish company proposes to invest Rs 130 crore.

MCNS is from South Korea while Premium Ingredients is also from Spain. The remaining companies are Indian.

"In line with 'Make in AP' policy, emerges as one of the most preferred investment destinations, boosting local manufacturing which, in turn, will give a fillip to creation of jobs and get the economy of state and region on a fast track," said Ravindranath Sannareddy, founder & managing director, Sri City.
Republic Day Parade 2017 Awards announced Madras Engineer Group Adjudged Best Marching Contingent amongst Services

The results of different competitive presentations in the Republic Day Parade 2017 have been announced by the Ministry of Defence. Among the Services category, Madras Engineer Group has been adjudged the best marching contingent. In the category of Para-Military Forces and other auxiliary marching contingents, Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) contingent has been adjudged the best marching contingent.

In the tableau category, in total 23 tableau including six from Union Ministries / Departments took part in this years Republic Day Parade, out of which first position has gone to Arunachal Pradesh tableau, which depicted the Yak dance, one of the most famous pantomimes of the Mahayana sect of Buddhist tribes of Arunachal Pradesh. Tripuras tableau based on Hojagiri dance, depicting the magnificent Reang tribal dance was adjudged the second best, while the third position was shared by Maharashtra and Tamilnadu.

The tableau of Maharashtra depicted the commemoration of 160th birth anniversary of the honoured freedom fighter, Lokmanya Balgangadhar Tilak. The Tamilnadu tableau portrayed the popular folk dance Karagattam which forms an important event in temple festival celebrations, especially in Amman temple festivals in the rural areas of Tamilnadu.

In the category of tableaux representing Union Ministries/Departments, the first prize has been awarded to the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship which depicted the theme Transforming India through Skill Development, and highlighted the achievements of the Ministry and its programmes. The tableau presented by the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) depicting the concept of Green India-Clean India was selected for a special prize by the jury.

In the competitive category of school children items, the dance presented by Kendriya Vidyalaya, Pitampura, Delhi has been adjudged the best children item for their performance to express how our National Flag has been a witness to the glorious tales of our freedom fighters, establishment of Indian democracy, the endless affection of Indians, womens empowerment and such countless achievements. A Consolation Prize has also been awarded to South Central Zone Cultural Centre, Nagpur for their performance of the Saila Karma dance which is a popular dance of the Gond Tribe of Dindori district in Madhya Pradesh.

As in previous years, this year also Ministry of Defence had appointed three panels of judges for assessing the marching contingents from three Services, Para-Military Forces and Tableau from various States/Ministries/Departments and School Children items from Schools of Delhi as well as outside Delhi. The panels of judges today announced their results here.
Union Govt has taken decisive steps against Pak sponsored terrorism: Dr Jitendra Singh

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh has said that the Union Government led by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has taken decisive steps against Pakistan sponsored terrorism and the two most recent examples are the decision of Remonetization which has drastically reduced terror related transactions, preceded by the military strike inside the Pakistan Occupied Kashmir.

Addressing the 2nd Round-Table Conference on the subject of Countering Pakistan State Terror" organized by Global Counter Terrorism Council (GCTC) here today, Dr Jitendra Singh said Pak sponsored terrorism in the context of Jammu & Kashmir is a cumulative effect of a series of misdoings of the past six decades. He said, if only the first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru had allowed the then Home Minister Sardar Patel to handle J&K, the history of the Indian subcontinent would have been different.

When the NDA Government took over on May 26, 2014, Dr Jitendra Singh said, it bequeathed a huge baggage of cumulative liabilities from the past. There was a feeling of pessimism all over the country, but within two years, he said, not only the common man in India is feeling proud to be an Indian, but the Indians settled abroad are also looking forward for an opportunity to return to their motherland.

This itself is a vindication of the kind of redemption which the government under the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has succeeded in bringing about in just two-and-a-half years, he added.

As per the reports, Dr Jitendra Singh said, following Remonetization, there is a 60% dip in terror related activities and 50% reduction in terror-related Hawala transactions being funded by Pakistan. Not only this, at least two printing press units in Pakistan which were printing fake Indian currency and pumping into India have been compelled to shut down, he added. Similarly, the incidents of stone-pelting in J&K have also gone down drastically, he said.

Dr Jitendra Singh said, decisions like the surgical strike and Remonetization have hit the Achilles heel" of Pakistan and these are some of the decisive steps which no government in the past dared to take. He also referred to the Governments stand on Baluchistan and said, for the first time, the Indian forces have had the opportunity to give befitting retaliatory response to every act of mischief from Pakistan.

Dr Jitendra Singh reiterated that the Union Government follows a policy of zero tolerance to Pakistan-sponsored terrorism and will never compromise with the honour and dignity of the security forces of India or the sovereignty of the Republic of India.

Among the eminent panelists at the Round-Table Conference were noted analyst Shri Sushil Pandita, former Foreign Secretary Shri Kanwal Sibal, retired Vice-Chief of Army Staff Gen Phillip Campose, the Head Imam, Imam Illiyasi and well known activist Shri Tarek Fatah.
Facebook Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mark Zuckerberg and his Google counterpart, Sundar Pichai, have slammed US President over his executive order to ban refugees and immigrants from some Muslim-majority countries.
Esteban Santiago, the Ft. Lauderdale airport shooter, is an Iraq war veteran. Prior to executing five innocent people and wounding seven, he told the FBI that voices were telling him to watch ISIS videos. Although clearly exhibiting the possible symptoms of a thought disorder, the authorities were not able to connect him with mental health treatment.
Air Products & Chemicals has hit a bump as it attempts the largest US takeover of a Chinese firm in more than a decade, stymied by an extended boardroom battle at Yingde Gases Group. A divided board of the Hong Kong-listed firm failed to agree on a panel needed to review the offer, but has asked Air Products to proceed with due diligence to avoid further delays, Yingde said in a statement to the Hong Kong stock exchange. The worlds biggest producer of hydrogen offered to pay at least HK$5.50 a share, valuing Yingdes equity at about $1.3 billion. The success of the ...
is set to add more than 300 new and traditional drugs to its list of medicines the state will help patients pay for, the first change in more than seven years that will boost treatments for cancer, kidney disease, hepatitis and haemophilia.
Seeking to quell a social media campaign imploring Mexicans to boycott US companies, Starbucks defended itself saying it had invested millions in the country, created more than 7,000 jobs, and that its local unit is Mexican-owned.
John Hurt, a British character actor who vanished inside dozens of roles, from Shakespeare to science fiction, including John Merrick, the hideously deformed title character in the 1980 film The Elephant Man, has died. He was 77.
US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order indefinitely banning admission of people fleeing Syria, temporarily freezing the entry of other refugees and prohibiting entry by people from seven Muslim-majority nations for 90 days. Trump said the measure would prevent terrorists from being admitted into the country. Democrats labelled the order a Muslim ban and criticised it as inhumane. Absent from the order was a provision from a draft of the document, obtained by Bloomberg, that would require the Defense Department to make a plan to create safe ...
US President Donald Trump signed an order today to strengthen the vetting of would-be immigrants or refugees and to keep "radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America."



At a ceremony at the Pentagon to swear in James Mattis as his secretary of defense, Trump signed a decree entitled: "Protection of the nation from foreign terrorist entry into the United States."



"This is big stuff," he declared, to polite applause from gathered senior military brass.

The White House did not immediately make the wording of the decree public, but a draft text had been leaked to US media earlier in the week and was widely reported on.

According to this unconfirmed order, Trump's decree suspends the entire US refugee resettlement program for at least 120 days while tough new vetting rules are established.

In addition, it specifically bars Syrian refugees from the United States indefinitely, or until the president himself decides that they no longer pose a threat.

Meanwhile, no visas will be issued for 30 days to travellers, whether would-be visitors or migrants, from seven mainly-Muslim countries: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.
The minimum paid-up capital for (IUs), which are companies to be set up under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code to keep records of defaults and debts of those seeking insolvency protection, will be Rs 60 crore, if recommendations of a working group are accepted.
Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have issued a high danger avalanche warning for the hilly areas of Kashmir valley for the next 24 hours.

An official spokesman said the warning has been issued for avalanche-prone slopes of Kupwara, Bandipora, Baramulla, Ganderbal, Kulgam and Budgam and Kargil district of Kashmir division.

Deputy Commissioners of Kashmir division, including Leh and Kargil, have been asked to take precautionary measures in their districts and advised people not to venture in avalanche-prone areas.

Locals have also been asked to keep clearing snow deposits from roof tops of their houses and bunkers to avoid any damage.

On January 25th, Indian soldiers lost their lives in two separate avalanches in Gurez and Sonmarg.

Two ghastly avalanches had hit an army camp in Gurez sector of Bandipora district near the Line of Control and the Army camp of 115 Battalion at Sonmarg in central Kashmir's Ganderbal district respectively on Wednesday.

While an avalanche hit a patrol party which was on its way to a post in Gurez sector on Wednesday night, the other hit two shelters occupied by two officers and four jawans.

Gurez and Sonmarg are the same avalanche-prone sectors where 16 soldiers were killed and four others injured in two snowslide-related incidents in March 2012.

In February 2010, at least 15 Armymen were killed after an avalanche hit a military camp in the Khilanmarg area near Gulmarg.

Meanwhile, the weather is improving in the Valley with the increase in the maximum temperatures and night temperatures and other areas across the state.

Srinagar recorded max of 6.9 and minimum of minus 0.8 degree Celsius. Jammu recorded max of 19.8 and minimum of 8.3 degree Celsius.

The surface link continued to remain suspended between the Valley and the rest of the country for the past four days.

However, after remaining suspended for three days, the air link was restored from Srinagar today.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Ahead of elections, posters and slogans become integral campaigning weapon for the political parties to convey their message to woo voters and attack rivals and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) has come out with a powerful slogan with the spotlight on party supremo Mayawati.

The BSP has released a series of posters centring on Mayawati, catering to a plethora of social issues with the slogan- "Behan Ji Ko Aane Do'.

The party chief is called 'Behan Ji' (elder sister) by fellow party followers and supporters as a sign of respect.

"To make daughters smile, let Behanji (Mayawati) come," the poster further reads.

One of the posters also carries a tagline, attacking Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government for the demonetisation drive while another hit out at Uttar Pradesh government over increasing cases of crimes in the state.

"Mayawati government will stop corruption, riot, abduction, hooliganism after coming in power in UP," another poster reads.

Mayawati, who is contesting the UP assembly polls has earlier urged the Muslim voters to cast their votes in favour of her, and not in support of the ruling Samajwadi Party, in order to defeat the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Taking a potshot at the BJP, Mayawati had said even the workers of the saffron party know that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not fulfilled even the one-fourth of promises he made during 2014 Lok Sabha elections.

Uttar Pradesh is set to have a seven-phase polling between February 11 and March 8.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Dubbing the government's claim that would weed out black money and corruption as "hoax", former union finance minister P Chidambaram has said that such issues are likely to persist since the November 8 decision was not "notebandi", rather it was a "notebadli."

" will not kill black money and corruption. Earlier, they asked and took bribes in old notes. Now they will take in new notes. The change of notes will not make any difference to these things. It is a complete hoax to say that will kill corruption," Chidambaram said while delivering a lecture on demonetisation at Srimanta Sankardev Research Centre in Guwahati.

Throwing a challenge to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Congress leader said, "Let me throw a simple challenge to the government, please guarantee to me that next time I go to a Tehsildar he will not ask bribe from me. Let the Prime Minister give the guarantee to 132 crore people of the country that from today nobody will ask for bribe because he demonetised all notes."

Pointing out that former Reserve Bank of India (RBI) governors had resisted from recommending demonetisation to the government, Chidambaram said it took merely 64 days for RBI Governor Urjit Patel to support demonetisation.

"Dr Urjit Patel became Governor on September 4 and in 64 days, after he became Governor, he supported the government in demonetisation when seven governors before him have not recommended demonetisation," he added.

He also criticised the Centre for not knowing the printing capacity to churn out new currency notes to cater to the demands of the people.

"400 crore notes is needed for circulation and if your capacity is 300 crore notes how long will it take. Simple arithmetic tells you that it would take eight months to print the notes, how can the Finance Minister say that by Wednesday everything will be alright when even now they are printing. There are not enough notes so the government did not even know the capacity of the printing press, the RBI knew but the government did not," he added.
The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has ordered Switzerland to pay EUR 30,000 to a Sri Lankan Tamil national who was deported from Switzerland and subsequently arrested and allegedly beaten in Colombo.

In a judgement issued on Thursday, the court held that Swiss authorities failed to adequately consider risk of ill-treatment before deporting the Sri Lankan Tamil national.

The victim had applied for asylum in Switzerland on the grounds of political persecution, as he was a former member of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and had previously been subjected to ill-treatment while imprisoned in his home country, according to the court proceedings.

The victim complained that the Swiss authorities had failed to properly assess these submissions and had deported him to Sri Lanka, where he had been subjected to further ill-treatment at the hands of the Sri Lankan authorities, reports the Colombo Page.

His request for asylum was rejected and, following an unsuccessful appeal, the man, his wife and children were deported in 2013.

Upon arrival at the airport in Colombo, they were detained and questioned. The man was later incarcerated in Boosa Prison, where he suffered ill-treatment.

The Court held that Switzerland was to pay the applicant EUR 30,000 in respect of non-pecuniary damage and EUR 4,770 in respect of costs and expenses.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A Special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court has convicted four and sentenced them to life imprisonment in a case relating to the murder of environmentalist and Right to Information activist Shehla Masood.

Four people who have been convicted by the special court are Zahida Parvez, Saba Farooqi, Saqib Ali and Taabish Khan.

The Trial court found the four accused guilty of the crime and convicted them. One accused was later given pardon by the court.

After thorough investigation, charge sheet was filed against may 25, 2012 under the section 302, 120-B, 201 of the Indian Penal Code and under the section 25 and 27 of the Arms Act.

The case was registered on the allegations relating to daylight murder of Masood, a resident of Bhopal and an RTI activist and a business women on August 16 by a gunshot wound inflicted while she was sitting in a car in front of her house at Old Safia College Road in Bhopal.

Later, on the request of Madhya Pradesh Government, the CBI had registered the case on September 3, 2011.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Commenting on the recent attack on Sanjay Leela Bhansali on the sets of 'Padmavati' in Jaipur, veteran actor Raza Murad has said the incident is extremely disheartening and called on the government to take strict action against the guilty.

Venting out his anger, the actor told ANI, "Seeing all this, I feel the film industry should open a censor office in every corner and send their script for approval to every party. Otherwise the same thing will happen time and again. I am amazed by all this."

"There is something called law and order. Who so ever feels like just targets the film industry and its actors. Why do we need Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) if there is a censor board in every nook and corner?"

The 66-year-old said the incident is regrettable and that the government must take strict action.

"There is no space for violation in a democracy. This has to end. The entire film fraternity must come together and the government must take stern action. Otherwise it all seems to be a jungle raj," he concluded.

The director was roughed up by members of Karni Sena at the city's historic Jaigarh Fort on Friday alleging that Rajasthan's history was distorted in Bhansali's magnum-opus.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
An ancient tribe of snake charmers in Uttar Pradesh's Jogi Dera area, is these days struggling to earn a livelihood, thanks to increased urbanisation and punitive regulations imposed by the animal rights groups and institutions

Popularly known as 'Saperas', these snake charmers have been struggling to keep their tradition alive of catching venomous snakes and making them dance to their tune. Regulations and fewer performance opportunities are making it difficult for them to earn a living, as the Indian government formally banned snake charming in 1991.

Jogi Dera is home to about 1,000 snake charmers and the lack of business and access to snakes is making some reconsider other options. Earning only 200 rupees on an average per day of snake charming is no longer an attractive career option.

Buti Nath, a 65-year-old charmer, said

"Ever since the days of our forefathers we have been into this profession. It is even older than our fore-fathers. More than seven generations of our families have been doing this and so are we. It is our bad luck that our children do not have any jobs, any profession or anything to look after them. We are called upon whenever there are dangerous animals coming into your houses or in your fields - we go and catch them with courage."

He claims, "Officials have put out orders to catch and lock up all charmers.

Animal rights activists, however, suggest snake charmers inflict severe cruelty on these reptiles, whose numbers are fast dwindling due to deforestation and urbanisation.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Woman activist and lawyer Abha Singh on Saturday lashed out Salman Khan in connection with the Black buck poaching case,saying she he should file a counter if he is truly innocent.

She said, "If the forest department has falsely implicated him, then I challenge Salman Khan to go under section211 of the IPC. Why doesn't he file a counter case to the forest department,for maligning his name and harassing him, for keeping him behind the bars in the Jodhpur Jail. He has a legal avenue under 211 of the IPC. Why is he keeping quiet? It clearly shows that Salman khan is speaking legally tutored language of what his lawyers are telling him."

She said Salman Khan has madea joke of the Judiciary repeatedly. She said that he should be tried for perjury and wasting the time of the court.

She said,"How can there be two post mortem reports. The first report said that the black buck died due to falling in a hole and due to a dog bite, and the second mortem suggested something else."

Singh said that it was now for the Judiciary to get the truth out, as the police and the defence have connived in not conducting the case in a true manner.

"Everybody knows that after he was let off in the hit and run case in Mumbai, Delhi Police came out with a notification saying that these are sixteen points where they goofed up and the benefit went to Salman Khan. So,whether the prosecution and police has deliberately goofed up and left holes for Salman khan's benefit, is another investigation which needs to be done, but at the moment. It is obvious what happened and he is trying to take the judiciary for a ride." She concluded.

During the shooting of Sooraj Barjatya's movie, Hum Saath Saath Hain in year 1999, Salman Khan allegedly went on a shooting expedition along with actors Saif Ali Khan, Neelam, Sonali Bendre and Tabu, killing two blackbucks in Kankani village.

Following protests by the local Bishnoi community, a case was filed against Salman Khan and other actors, besides a local named Dushyant Singh.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
In a move seen as a step toward marijuana decriminalization in Israel, Public Security Minister Gilad Erdan announced a new policy that would cut down on prosecution for recreational use of the drug.

Erdan said the plan would usher in a "shift to decriminalization with responsibility", reports the CNN.

Some European countries and the United States already have embraced this approach with a few legalizing marijuana for recreational use.

The proposal comes on the heels of a Justice Ministry recommendation that marijuana use not be prosecuted criminally, but instead fined or punished by administrative sanctions.

The new policy would apply to users carrying up to 15 grams. If passed, first-time offenders would face a fine of around USD 265, with the offense not appearing on their criminal record.

Those caught for a second time would see the fine double. If caught a third time, the punishment would be at the discretion of the police.

On the fourth offense, the suspect could face criminal prosecution.

Minors caught for the first time with marijuana would be criminally prosecuted only if they refused to take part in a treatment program.

The second offense would be closed with a special settlement. The third time could trigger criminal proceedings.

Israel's cabinet must approve the policy shift before it can be enacted.

Meanwhile, as officials relax laws regarding marijuana, the nation's crackdown on cigarettes continues to expand.

Israel's Health Ministry recently announced stricter rules, including a complete ban on cigarette advertising, requiring cigarette packaging to include illustrated warnings, and expanding the ban on smoking in public places.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Lord Mayor of London Alderman Dr Andrew Parmley, recently visited Pakistan to strengthen trade links between London and Islamabad.

Dr Parmley, met business and government leaders in Karachi and Islamabad, and discussed discussing how London can work more closely with Pakistan as it develops an international presence in financial and professional services.

The visit also supported the 70th anniversary of British-Pakistani relations, a new initiative launched last week in Islamabad.

The Lord Mayor also met with several senior industry figures in Karachi, including representatives from Meezan Bank and the State Bank of Pakistan, said an official press release.

He hosted several round table discussions on debt markets, education, and fintech.

In Islamabad, he promoted London's financial and professional services industries and suggested that they could help develop world-class infrastructure, alongside the ongoing China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), in Pakistan.

Dr. Parmley also raised the subject of education and training at an education roundtable attended by government ministers and representatives from Pakistani universities.

He wrapped up his visit in Pakistan with a meeting with the Chair of the Federal Board of Investment, and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister, Dr Miftah Ismail.

The Lord Mayor was accompanied on his trip by a business delegation from British businesses looking to establish, or expand their operations in Pakistan, including Senior Manager Ali Abdul Aziz of Deloitte, Managing director of MomoEssa Capital Management Farhan Rizvi, and Garbhan Shanks, Partner at global law firm Michelmores.

He was also accompanied by David Clark, Head of the Economic Crime Directorate at the City of London Police, the UK's leading agency on cyber-crime and its investigation.

Speaking about his visit, Parmley said, "My trip to Pakistan has been a great success, full of productive meetings and roundtables. I enjoyed seeing firsthand the famous Pakistani hospitality and I'm sure a new golden era of Pakistani-British relations is beginning.

Commenting on the Lord Mayor's visit, British High Commissioner to Pakistan, Thomas Drew said, "The visit of the Lord Mayor of the City of London shows how much of a priority Pakistan and its vibrant economy is for the UK. The Lord Mayor is one of the most senior figures in British business and represents the world's biggest financial hub. British companies are recognizing the growth in the economy in Pakistan - and its potential - and this will help launch a stronger trade relationship in 2017."

Dr. Parmley is a spokesman for the UK's financial and professional services industries, and is the leader of London's 'Square Mile' or financial district.

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Pakistan and Iran have agreed to increase the volume of bilateral trade to five billion dollars.

Chairman for the Committee for Foreign Policy and National Security of Iran, Allauddin Boroujerdi made these remarks while addressing a press conference in Islamabad.

Earlier, Boroujerdi held talks with Pakistan National Security Adviser Nasser Khan Janjua on Friday and discussed matters pertaining to security of the region.

Janjua said that Pakistan attaches great value to its relations with neighbour country Iran.

Boroujerdi said that Iran is a very close friend of Pakistan and there is a need to further improve bilateral relations.

He said Gwadar and Chabahar are sister ports, and they will help boost bilateral trade.

Boroujerdi added that Iran Pakistan Gas Pipeline was on the top priorities of both the countries.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address a public meeting in Goa on Saturday ahead of the state Assembly polls scheduled on February 4.

The party organisation which has announced candidates on 36 seats, has decided to support independent candidates in four constituencies which are largely Catholic dominated.

The Bharatiya Janata Party which had pre-poll ties with Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP) during 2012 assembly elections had won majority seats and formed the government.

The MGP recently severed ties with BJP joining hands with Goa Suraksha Manch, a political outfit mentored by rebel Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader Subhash Velingkar.

Goa goes to polls on February 4.
Reiterating his promise to put Punjab's Revenue Minister Bikram Majithia behind the bars by April 15, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal continued his attack on the ruling Badal family, accusing them of bringing doom upon the state through their nexus of nepotism.

Addressing the crowd of Patiala yesterday ahead of Punjab assembly polls Kejriwal said, "By 20th March the party would take the office, and by 15th April Majithia would be in Jail. I urge everyone to note the date down today. Whatever ruckus Badals have caused in Punjab, we'll undo it all."

Tearing into the Badal family and their supposed political nepotism, he said that now time has come for them to face the consequences off the menace they had conferred upon Punjab.

"They had a good setting. Everything was functioning well and within the family between uncles, in-laws and nephews and Punjab was taken for a toss.", he said.

"We will end the addiction in Punjab. Over 40lakh children are afflicted and we have full preparation to treat them all.", he added.

He claimed to open several clinics, call assistance from outside, if need be and within 6 months, Punjab would be rid of the menace.

On subject of the deep penury and debts, farmers are troubled within Punjab, he claimed that within 3 to 4 years of government, 50 percent profit on a farmers produce, would go to the farmers.

"In this way a farmer would gain what he deserves. And the time a farmer starts earning his rightful, in future no farmer would have to take loans and debt-ridden." He added.

Majithia came into the scanner, when wrestler-turned-drug peddler Jagdish Singh Bhola's recently alleged that Punjab Revenue Minister in the multi- crore international drug trafficking racket.

Majithia, brother-in-law of Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal, has denied the allegations, but a CBI probe was demanded to expose the alleged drug mafia-politicians-police racket.

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Tata Steel on Saturday announced the fourth season of its annual innovation challenge, 'Mind over Matter' in search of the nation's next student innovators.

The platform provides young minds from India's premier tech institutes, such as IITs, NITs and the like, an opportunity to shape their ideas, innovate, work on real life manufacturing challenges and explore its implementation on an industrial scale.

Over the last three editions, the contest has grown manifold and promises to be one of the most credible and popular innovation programmes to recognise young engineering talent.

"Tata Steel has a rich legacy of innovation through R and D and is continuously pushing boundaries on innovations that drive fruitful results. 'Mind Over Matter' is a promising platform for fresh and young minds as it provides students an opportunity to work with the research experts at the Company and apply their ideas using state-of-the-art equipment and facilities," Chief R and D and Scientific Services, Tata Steel, Dr. Sanjay Chandra said.

Launched in 2014, 'Mind Over Matter' challenges students to conceptualise solutions for real life and exciting manufacturing problems.

The contest pans out in three phases. In the first phase, students from top engineering institutes across the country are invited to register and submit innovative proposals on research cases put forth.

Students with the most innovative solutions are shortlisted for a 2-month internship at Tata Steel and further build on their solutions under the mentorship of R and D experts from Tata Steel in the second phase.

In the third and final phase, the teams present their solutions to an esteemed Jury and the winners of the contest are chosen based on various parameters such as potential, impact, and implementation aspects. The contest winners stand to win cash prizes of up to Rs one lakh, trophies, certificates and even a pre-placement offer.

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British Prime Minister Theresa May has repeatedly refused to condemn the ban on refugees and entry for citizens of seven Muslim-majority nations imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump.

She was speaking just a day after meeting the new President in Washington, where the pair pledged their commitment to the "special relationship" between Britain and the U.S., reports the Independent.

May who is presently in Turkey for bilateral talks, held a joint press conference with Prime Minister Binali Yildirim.

Their talks were overshadowed by global debate over Trump's executive order to ban Syrian refugees from entering the US indefinitely, halt all other asylum admissions for 120 days and suspend travel visas for citizens of "countries of particular concern", including Syria, Iraq and other Muslim-majority nations.

When pressed for her view on Trump's executive order, May replied: "The United States is responsible for the United States' policy on refugees, the United Kingdom is responsible for the United Kingdom's policy on refugees."

Yvette Cooper, the former shadow Home Secretary, sent a letter to the Prime Minister urging her to echo condemnation from French and German ministers over the "deeply troubling" executive order.

Ed Miliband, the former Labour leader, said the Prime Minister's refusal to condemn Mr Trump's Muslim ban "is shocking, wrong and cannot stand".

He added: "It flies in the face of the values of people across Britain."

Meanwhile, the United Nations has condemned Trump's ban on refugees.

The UN refugee agency (UNHCR) and International Organisation for Migration called on the new President's administration to continue offering asylum to people fleeing war and persecution, a right protected by international law.

"The needs of refugees and migrants worldwide have never been greater and the US resettlement program is one of the most important in the world," the two agencies said in a joint statement.

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US President Donald Trump signed an order to suspend admission of all refugees for 120 days while a new system is put in place to tighten vetting for those from predominantly Muslim countries, adding that preference would be given to Christians.

According to Washington Post, Trump said that the goal is to screen out "radical Islamic terrorists" and that priority for admission would be given to Christians.

"We don't want them here," Trump said of terrorists in a signing ceremony at the Pentagon.

"We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people," he added.

In an interview, Trump was asked whether he would prioritize persecuted Christians in the Middle East for admission as refugees, and he replied, "Yes."

Since the beginning of the Syrian civil war and the rise of the Islamic State, many more Muslims than Christians have been killed or displaced because of the violence. A 2015 Washington Post poll found that 78 percent of Americans favored equal consideration for refugees regardless of religion.

The order was called "Protecting the Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States" and contained a temporary entry ban that would affect citizens of seven countries - Iraq, Iran, Syria, Yemen, Sudan, Libya and Somalia.

The order calls for a halt to the flow of refugees from Syria until further notice and suspends all refugee admissions for 120 days until more analysis can determine which countries harbor the greatest threat.

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Former Karnataka chief minister and senior Congress leader S. M. Krishna on Saturday resigned from all the posts held by him in the grand old party.

Krishna has resigned from the Congress and Congress Working Committee.

The Congressman is said to have written a letter to party president Sonia Gandhi apprising her of his decision.

The 84-year-old first became a Member of Parliament (MP) in 1968 from Mandya.

Krishna led the Congress to victory in Karnataka in 1999 and served as the chief minister till 2004.

He also served as the governor of Maharashtra for the period 2004-2008.

Krishna was also made the minister for external affairs in Dr. Manmohan Singh's cabinet, and resigned from it in 2012.

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At least 45 were killed in a Madagascar town when a lorry transporting people for a wedding ceremony fell from a bridge into a river on Saturday, officials said. The newlyweds were among the victims.

The accident happened in Anjozorobe, a town 90 kilometers northeast of Madagascar's capital Antananarivo. There were 70 people in the lorry which fell into the Mananara river.

"Forty-five people, including 9 children were killed on spot while 24 others were injured during the accident," Anjozorobe mayor Lova Andriamanantsoa told Xinhua by telephone.

"The main reason of the accident is not yet known because the driver also died. "Most of them were killed by suffocation in the water," said Andriamanantsoa.

--IANS

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Anti-Brexit campaigners are hoping to organise the biggest protest march in modern British history, drawing fresh inspiration from the success of anti-Trump rallies around the world, the media reported on Saturday.

"Unite for Europe", an umbrella group of 'Remain' campaigners, plans to march outside parliament on March 25 -- the last weekend before Prime Minister Theresa May's self-imposed deadline for launching the process of leaving the European Union (EU) -- hoping to attract a crowd in excess of three-quarters of a million people, the Guardian reported.

"I don't think we were ever under the illusion that the march would stop article 50 (official process of exiting the EU) being triggered; it is more about demonstrating the strength of opinion against Brexit," said Peter French of Unite for Europe.

"This fast-track bill will create a lot of emotion and anger in the country that things are being rushed through."

A march against the Iraq war in 2003 is thought to be the largest in modern times, attracting 750,000 people, according to police estimates and up to 2 million according to organisers.

In contrast, the largest anti-Brexit march to date attracted an estimated crowd of 50,000 on July 2, shortly after the EU referendum on June 26, and there have been two smaller marches in August and September.

"The idea is to try to make this the biggest march the capital, or country, has ever seen," said French, who pointed out that there were 6 or 7 million voters in London alone, some 70 per cent of whom had opposed Brexit.

"Right now, Theresa May is focused entirely on the 52 per cent and forgetting the 48 per cent," the Guardian quoted French as saying.

After the Supreme Court ruled this week that MPs must be consulted first, the government has announced a swift timetable, with just five days of debate scheduled in the Commons and 137 words of proposed legislation.

Organisers are working with the Metropolitan police, Greater London Authority and Westminster council on a route for the march that will likely start in Park Lane before heading to Piccadilly, Trafalgar Square and end in Parliament Square with a series of as-yet unannounced speakers.

--IANS

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The talks held on January 23-24, in Kazakhstan's capital Astana, should be seen against the grim toll of the turmoil in Syria that began in February/March of 2011: More than half-a- million Syrians dead, half the 22.5 million population displaced -- with over five million outside the country -- and unfortunately no end in sight for the inexorably unfolding tragedy.

The participants were seven: Russia, Turkey, Iran, the Syrian regime, the UN represented by its mediator Staffan di Mistura, the armed rebels led by Mohammed Alloush (politburo member of Jaish al-Islam -- one of the armed groups) and the US as an observer. The initiative for the talks came from Russia, Turkey and Iran, with Russia in the driver's seat. The three are the "guarantors" of the cease-fire announced on December 30, 2016.

Turkey has recently moved closer to Russia on Syria and there is a degree of understanding between the two along with some mutual accommodation, though they still might have differences about the desired final outcome. Russian President Vladimir Putin adroitly chose the date January 23 keeping in mind the presidential inauguration of Donald Trump -- former President Barack Obama had, ever since the annexation of the Crimea in 2014, "demonised" Putin.

Let us look at the political context of the talks. On December 22, eastern Aleppo, held by the rebels since 2012, fell to forces of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad supported by Russia and Iran. On December 30, a ceasefire and talks at Astana were announced. The ceasefire, though broken repeatedly, more by Assad than by his foes, has generally held mainly because the rebels, receiving less and less external support, are in no position to fight Assad. They cannot defy Turkey as it either provides military supplies or permits the passage of such supplies from others through its territory. The ceasefire did not necessarily indicate a serious readiness to talk and settle matters on the part of the warring foes.

In listing the participants, we have mentioned "the armed rebels". A list of the rebel groups that attended the Astana talks has not been published. But we have a list of the groups that had agreed to the ceasefire as per a notification of the Russian Defence Ministry: Feilak al Sham with 4,000 fighters, Ahrar al Sham (16,000), Jaysh al Islam (12,000), Thuwar al Sham (2,500), Jaysh al-Mujahideen (8,000), Jaysh Idlib (6,000), and Jabhat al-Shamiya (3,000).

Some Kurds attended the talks, but Turkey saw to it that its foes PYD (Democratic Union Party) and YPG (People's Protection Units) were not invited. YPG is closely allied to the US in its fight against the Islamic State. YPG provides the boots on the ground while the US Air Force carries out the bombings.

The Assad regime was represented by its Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Jaafari. Iran, Russia, and Turkey too were represented at a similar level. There was a significant difference between Astana and the various meetings in Geneva, Vienna and elsewhere that have taken place under the auspices of the UN or that of US-Russia. This time the rebels were represented not by civilians but by the commanders. Russia sent General Stanislav Gadjimagomedov, underlining the military dimension of the talks.

There was difference of opinion between Iran and Russia over inviting the US as Trump has adopted a hostile stance towards the Iran nuclear deal. But Russia prevailed, as expected. Russia had earlier said that it was inviting Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Jordan and Egypt. Obviously, the decision to invite them was changed.

The delegation of the Syrian regime and the other delegates from that country refused to talk directly to each other. They communicated through the "guarantors". Jaafari referred to the rebels as "terrorists" as, for Assad, anyone opposed to him is a terrorist. The three "guarantors" issued a joint statement read out by Kazakhstan Foreign Minister Kairat Abdhrakhmanov, not subscribed to by the rebels.

The joint statement of the three guarantors is rather anodyne. They "reiterate their determination to fight jointly against ISIL/Daesh and al-Nusra (Front) and to separate from them armed opposition groups". This is nothing new.

The guarantors "express their conviction that there is no military solution to the Syrian conflict and that it can only be solved through a political process". This is rather strange as the three countries are engaged in a military solution to the Syrian crisis. They have compelled their client, namely, the Assad regime, to attend the meeting only to see whether it can get the rebels to surrender their arms as a pre-condition to political talks.

The rebels did not associate themselves with the joint statement because their demands about the lifting of siege, release of prisoners, and delivery of aid to besieged areas were not agreed to by Assad. In short, the surrender that Assad was wanting did not occur.

The next round of talks is in Geneva under the auspices of the UN on February 8. Even more important than the Astana talks is the likelihood of Trump and Putin formally agreeing on a united fight against the Islamic State and al Qaeda. The latter two hold considerable territory -- with the Islamic State alone holding territory as large as Florida.

We have to wait and watch how that war will unfold as it will cause large-scale civilian casualties. Even if that war succeeds, peace and normalcy will elude Syria unless there is a political resolution of the crisis, the moot questions being Assad's continuance in power and the shape and future of post-Assad Syria.

(Ambassador K.P. Fabian is a retired Indian diplomat who served in the Middle East and has deep knowledge of the region. The article is in special arrangement with South Asia Monitor/www.southasiamonitor.org)

--IANS

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The minimum temperature here on Saturday rose above freezing point as the authorities sounded an avalanche warning for higher reaches of the Kashmir Valley and Ladakh region.

Divisional administration issued the high avalanche warnings for hilly areas in Baramulla, Kupwara, Kulgam, Ganderbal, Shopian, Anantnag, Leh and Kargil districts, advising people living there not to venture out of their homes till the warnings were withdrawn.

District magistrates of the districts were asked to supervise all relief and rescue operations in avalanche-prone areas.

Twenty one people, including 15 army soldiers, died in snow-triggered tragedies, including avalanches, roof collapses etc since Tuesday in Jammu and Kashmir.

The weather office said the minimum temperature on Saturday here was 0.8 degrees Celsius.

Pahalgam and Gulmarg recorded minus 0.1 and minus 6.6, respectively, while Leh recorded minus 10.1 degrees Celsius.

Jammu city was at 8.6, Katra at 7.6, Batote at 4.2, Bannihal at 0.5 and Bhaderwah at minus 0.3 degrees Celsius, an official of the MET department said.

The 40-day long period of harsh winter called the 'Chillai Kalan' that started on December 21 will end on January 30.

--IANS

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John Hurt, the widely-admired Bafta-winning English actor who's known for his roles in "Alien", "The Elephant Man" and "Harry Potter" died aged 77, a media report said.

Hurt's agent, Charles McDonald, confirmed his death on Saturday, the BBC reported.

Diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2015, the Oscar nominated actor who rose to fame playing flamboyant gay icon Quentin Crisp, died on Friday, McDonald said.

Hurt was given an all-clear in October 2015, but in 2016 he pulled out of play "The Entertainer" due to ill-health.

"Sir John decided not to perform as Billy Rice in Sir Kenneth Branagh's production on the advice of his doctors," McDonald said.

No cause of death was, however, immediately known.

"I can't say I worry about mortality, but it's impossible to get to my age and not have a little contemplation of it," Hurt had told the Radio Times after the diagnosis.

Hurt had famously said: "We're all just passing time, and occupy our chair very briefly."

Hollywood director Mel Brooks described Sir John as "cinematic immortality", as tributes poured in for the star.

Brooks paid tribute to Sir John, who had starred in Brooks' comedy Spaceballs, saying on Twitter: "No one could have played The Elephant Man more memorably."

Lord of the Rings star Elijah Wood said: "It was such an honour to have watched you work, sir."

British actor Alfred Molina said Sir John was "a gloriously talented actor, one of the best, of this or any era."

Hurt was born on January 22, 1940, in Chesterfield in Derbyshire. Over six decades, he appeared in more than 120 films as well as numerous stage and television roles.

--IANS

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Actor Ranveer Singh has expressed disapproval of the attack on Sanjay Leela Bhansali on the set of their film "Padmavati" in Jaipur. He says the ace filmmaker cannot do anything that can hurt someone's feelings.

Activists of a Rajput organisation, Shree Rajput Karni Sena, attacked Bhansali on Friday. The activists slapped him, tore up his shirt and manhandled him.

"As a team, we are making 'Padmavati' keeping in mind the sensitivities and emotions of the people of Rajasthan and the Rajput community," Ranveer posted on Twitter on Saturday.

"Sanjay sir is one of the most accomplished and authentic filmmakers we have in India, and he won't ever do anything to hurt anyone's feelings.

"What happened is very unfortunate. We hope the people of Rajasthan will understand and empathise with our intentions and give us their support," he added.

Ranveer's co-star Shahid Kapoor also took to the micro-blogging site to condemn the attack.

"Very very sad. Words do fall short and feel too little to express feelings. Violence is unacceptable. This incident has shocked me. We need to look deep within as a society, as a country, as people...where are we headed," Shahid tweeted.

"Sanjay Bhansali is a filmmaker who the country should be proud of. You will know when you see 'Padmavati' the dignity he brings to it. And my only regret is that I wasn't by his side when this happened," he added.

The protesters also misbehaved with the crew and criticised the famed director for "distorting" history. Bhansali was shooting some scenes of "Padmavati" in Jaigarh Fort when the attack was reported, the police said.

Actress Deepika Padukone, who plays the title role in the film, also stood by Bhansali's side.

She wrote: "In a state of shock! Deeply saddened and disheartened by yesterday's (Friday) events! As Padmavati, I can assure you that there is absolutely no distortion of history. 'Padmavati'."

"Our only endeavour is and has always been to share with the world the story of this courageous and powerful woman in the purest form there is," she added.

--IANS

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Pakistan has expressed hope that the Saarc summit, which was boycotted by India and other neighbours last November, will be organised soon. It also urged that "internal and bilateral problems of member states must not be allowed to affect the organisation" - in an apparent reference to India.

Pakistan foreign policy chief Sartaj Aziz on Friday in a meeting with Arjun Bahadur Thapa, the outgoing Secretary General of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc), said that "Islamabad was looking forward to welcoming Saarc leaders for the 19th Summit in November but was postponed when India impeded the process and violated the spirit of the Charter."

Aziz expressed Pakistan's commitment to host the 19th Saarc Summit in Islamabad at the earliest so that the objectives of regional cooperation under the bloc can be pursued more vigorously.

According to Nepal, the current Saarc chair, the conference was cancelled after Bangladesh, Bhutan, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka followed India's decision to boycott the summit on the issue of terrorism.

Thapa emphasised the need to overcome the difficulties that the organisation faced and expressed the hope that the summit would be held as soon as possible.

The boycott from India came as relations between the neighbouring nations dipped in the wake of the September 18 attack on an Indian Army base in Uri town of Jammu and Kashmir that left 19 soldiers dead. India blamed Pakistani militants for the attack.

Tensions between the two countries shot up following the prolonged unrest in July in the Kashmir Valley, and escalated markedly after India said it had conducted surgical strikes across the Line of Control on September 29.

--IANS

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Batting for all-round development of Uttar Pradesh and wooing various sections of the society, the BJP on Saturday released its manifesto promising to waive off loans of small and marginal farmers and distributing laptops to the youth.

Releasing the manifesto here in the state capital Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Amit Shah said the Uttar Pradesh was left behind in the race for development.

"I appeal to the people to give us one opportunity and we promise to turn UP into a developed state," said Shah.

The party also promised to create a fund of Rs 150 crore for agricultural development in the next five years.

"Will distribute laptops to youth with 1 GB free internet if voted to power in UP," said Shah.

--IANS

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With barely a fortnight left for the Uttar Pradesh polls, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) plans to go full throttle with its campaigning after BJP chief Amit Shah releases the party manifesto here on Saturday, party sources said here.

A senior party leader requesting anonymity told IANS, "The 2017 manifesto for Uttar Pradesh polls will completely focus on the overall development of the state."

"It will make other parties jittery, because it will focus on all sectors," he said.

"The manifesto will also highlight the bad shape of the state in the last 15 years," he said.

According to the BJP leader, the party will raise the issue of slide in agricultural output in the state, which has now dipped to one per cent, and also highlight the problem of migration of people.

The BJP leader also described the alliance between Samajwadi Party and the Congress as the biggest "mistake" of Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav.

"This shows his desperation to gain power, but he committed the biggest mistake of his life by giving 105 seats to Congress," the BJP leader said.

"In 2012 Samajwadi Party emerged as the largest party in the state, but now with the alliance they are not in a position to emerge as the biggest party," he added.

"It shows Akhilesh's desperation for power," he said.

Elaborating why BJP didn't do aggressive campaigning in the last 20 days, he said: "We got very good traction after the (cross-LoC) surgical strikes and demonetisation in the state."

"But to maintain that potential was quite tough, so we will turn on the aggressive mode soon after the manifesto is released by Amit Shahji," he said.

The BJP leader also said that the party carried out a survey on the mood of people regarding the policies of the Narendra Modi government and said it was confident of coming to power in the state by emerging as the biggest party.

"The survey was carried out among 6.15 lakh people, and more across the country. The people supported it beyond our imagination," he said, adding that the survey was carried out between November 15 to December 31.

Explaining the reason why he expected people to vote for the BJP, he said: "The people have got an image of a credible government due to the central government's policies."

"So they shall vote for the BJP for the betterment of their livelihood in the long term, and they won't be carried away with short-term promises."

Uttar Pradesh will hold seven-phased assembly polls from February 11 to March 8.

(Anand Singh can be reached at anand.s@ians.in)

--IANS

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Some British reporters have complained that they were unable or delayed in entering the White House to cover their Prime Minister Theresa May's meeting with US President Donald Trump.

On Friday, Secret Service officers were baffled that the journalists' birth dates did not match what had been recorded by security personnel, CNN reported.

In the UK, the date is recorded by the day of the month followed by the month itself, unlike in the US.

"British press corp is locked outside the White House because our birthdates were submitted in UK format and secret service don't get it," one British reporter from BuzzFeed, Jim Waterson, tweeted.

He later added: "Those of us born after the 12th day of the month have been let through."

Moments before Prime Minister May's motorcade entered the White House grounds, members of the British press remained outside the North West gates, waiting for the Secret Service to tell them they were good to go.

One British journalist, presenting his UK passport, could be seen asking an officer if he was cleared, with the officer telling him that his birthday was still reversed in the system.

He had to continue waiting among a handful of others.

Mail On Sunday reporter Ned Donovan also experienced problems and was told off by a White House press officer for laughing at their confusion.

He wrote: "White House press officer just told me off on the phone for laughing when they told me about not knowing British date formats were different."

Meanwhile, Trump and May walked hand in hand at the White House as they hailed a resurgent Special Relationship - and he insisted Brexit would be "wonderful", the Daily Mail reported.

The President said he was 'honoured' by May's visit and that relations between the two long-standing allies had never been stronger as the leaders held a press conference at the White House.

May announced that the Queen has invited Trump for a state visit to the UK - and also signalled he had reassured her about America's commitment to NATO and pledged to continue the working relationship between the two countries.

The Prime Minister also revealed that the President and First Lady have accepted an invitation to make a state visit to the UK later this year.

--IANS

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Actor Bryan Cranston, who shot to fame playing a drug king in TV series "Breaking Bad", will go from bad to mad when he will make his London stage debut in a theatre version of the film "Network".

Cranston will play an unstable television news anchor who urges viewers to stick their heads out the window and yell 'I'm mad as hell and I'm not going to take it any more!' -- a line which was said in the 1976 movie, reports dailymail.co.uk.

The film's Oscar-winning screenplay has been adapted by Lee Hall.

The production, to be staged at the National Theatre, will be directed by Ivo van Hove.

Rufus Norris, the director of the National Theatre, revealed that "Network" will open in the Lyttelton in November.

--IANS

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The Border Security Force (BSF) on Saturday seized three China-made and two countrymade pistols apart from ammunition near the India-Pakistan border in Punjab's Amritsar sector.

The seizure included three 7.63 mm Chinese pistols, three magazines, 28 rounds of ammunition and two 12 mm local-made pistols, a BSF spokesman said here.

The BSF earlier carried out a search near Border Out Post Daoke after specific information and came across the weapons and ammunition hidden in agricultural fields in the Indian territory close to the international boundary.

BSF officials said the weapons could belong to smugglers on both sides of the border.

--IANS

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Former Finance Minister on Saturday said the cash crunch in the wake of demonetisation is still continuing in many places in the country even though it has eased to an extent in the metros.

"There are 5,199 automated teller machines in all the northeastern states put together. Out of which 3,645 are in Assam... half of them have no money. I was in Tirumala (Andhra Pradesh) and every bank has a branch at Tirumala. There is no money. Even today, 40% of ATMs have not been stacked with currency," he said.

"The cash crunch has eased for those in metropolitan cities and for those in Uttar Pradesh. The cash crunch has not eased in Nagaland, Odisha, remote areas of Bihar...," the senior Congress leader said at Tata Steel Kolkata Literary Meet here.

As for money-laundering through Jan Dhan accounts, he said: "25% accounts and earlier financial inclusion accounts are still zero-balance accounts. So, there is no money-laundering in these accounts. In the remaining accounts, the average money being laundered is Rs 27,000. In a small number of cases, huge amounts were passed around."

The evidence does not point to the wholesale use of Jan Dhan accounts for money laundering, Chidambaram added.
Bollywood celebrities including Priyanka Chopra, Mahesh Bhatt and Anurag Kashyap are appalled after ace filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali was attacked on the sets of his upcoming film "Padmavati" in Jaipur.

Activists of a Rajput organisation, Shree Rajput Karni Sena, assaulted Bhansali, on Friday, slapped him and tore up his shirt.

The protesters also misbehaved with the crew and criticised the famed director for "distorting" history. Bhansali was shooting some scenes of "Padmavati" in Jaigarh Fort when the attack was reported, the police said.

They damaged cameras and other equipment, forcing Bhansali to stop shooting.

As news of the attack broke, celebrities took to social media to express their anger and shock.

Priyanka Chopra: It's appalling to hear what happened to Sanjay Leela Bhansali. I'm so saddened. Violence is not what our forefathers taught us.

Farhan Akhtar: My fellow film folk, if we do not unite now against these recurring incidents of bullying, it's going to get much worse. I stand by Bhansali. If you don't like what he's making, don't watch his film. What's with the violence?? Apart from a vulgar display of self righteousness...I'm waiting to see how many people are punished for what they've done to Bhansali and his crew. There's enough evidence.

Anurag Kashyap: Can once the whole film industry come together and take a stand, and refuse to be a pony that all b******t and b************s ride on?? At the same time Shame on you Karni Sena, you make me feel ashamed to be a Rajput.. bloody spineless cowards. Hindu extremists have stepped out of twitter into the real world now and Hindu terrorism is not a myth anymore.

Ashutosh Gowariker: Shocking! Appalling!! Desparing!!! And still, we shall not stop making what we want to!! Sanjay stay strong! I'm with you! Padmavati.

Shabana Azmi: Film industry must stand as one and do whatever it takes to ensure that the reprehensible attack on Bhansali becomes a flash point for 'goondagiri' to stop.

Mahesh Bhatt: You don't beat an idea by beating a person. You beat an idea by beating an idea. This politics of violence is chilling free speech. Raise your voice! Not only do I respect the right and the power of free speech of my own tribe, I also respect that same power in the hands of those I despise.

Sudhir Mishra: Our dignity has been violated. The entire film industry must stand with Sanjay and demand that every member of this goon squad should be arrested!

Karan Johar: I am appalled at what has happened with Bhansali....this is the time for all of us as an industry to stand by our people and fraternity!! Thoughts of what has transpired with Bhansali today are just not leaving me!! Feeling helpless and angry! This cannot be our future!

Rishi Kapoor: How do you take justice in your hands without knowing what the facts are. Shameful! So much for Karni Sena's reputation. With you Sanjay!

Anubhav Sinha: When Power tries to control Art, there is something right with Art and there's something wrong with power Bhansali.

Hrithik Roshan: Bhansali, Sir. I stand with you. This is so infuriating!

Boman Irani: Disturbed and saddened at what happened to Bhansali. Inaction will only embolden others...And that's Anarchy.

Alia Bhatt: What happened on the sets of 'Padmavati' is ridiculous. There is such a thing as creative freedom and cinematic license.

Vivek Singh of Karni Sena had on Friday told IANS: "We had earlier requested him (Bhansali) to show us the script which he did not do. We are against distorting of historical facts and we know that he has distorted historical facts."

Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone and Shahid Kapoor starrer "Padmavati" tells the story of Alauddin Khilji, the medieval-era Delhi ruler, who fell in love with Rajput queen Padmavati.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Chinese communities across Asia celebrated the first day of the Year of the Rooster on Saturday with traditional dances and prayers, the media reported.

While the main celebrations got underway in China, huge crowds gathered for events across the region to share their wishes for an auspicious start to the Lunar New Year, Efe news reported.

In Thailand, which boasts of hosting the biggest Lunar New Year celebrations outside of China, the Year of the Rooster was rung in on Friday night with a parade in the capital's Lumpini Park, which saw some participants dressed in traditional Chinese costumes.

"By putting in a touch of Thai-ness, we want to ensure that Thailand's celebrations to mark the Chinese New Year 2017 will be unique and memorable for local and international tourists," said Yuthasak Supasorn, governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

In Malaysia, hundreds of people gathered on Saturday to watch a traditional Chinese Lion Dance being performed at Kuala Lumpur's Thean Hou temple.

New Year's revellers were also seen visiting the temple with their families for prayers and posing for photos with decorative lanterns.

Similar scenes were observed in the Philippines capital, where children from poor families donned makeshift dragon costumes as they performed dances in front of Chinese revellers in Manila's China Town.

Filipino-Chinese spectators offered money to the dancers to wish them good luck.

In Taiwan, huge crowds gathered at the capital's Longshan Temple, which was decorated with images of the rooster, where they burned incense and joined New Year prayers.

Scores of displaced people in South Korea whose home towns are in the North made their way to Imjingak, a park located near the Demilitarised Zone in the city of Paju, for an ancestor memorial service.

The annual holiday traditionally sees people in South Korea travel to their home towns to visit their families and pay homage to their ancestors.

Celebrations for the Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, will officially end on February 2, while the year will continue until February 15, 2018.

--IANS

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In response to a request by The Columbus Telegram, Platte County department heads and elected officials have agreed to write one article per month on issues facing our county. Since everyone is talking about taxes and our state Legislature is addressing taxes in their current session, this initial article addresses our county taxes and spending. This article reflects my personal perspective on this subject.

The state Legislature, not the county board, establishes the guidelines for property taxes and valuations that our county assessor must follow. Agricultural land is assessed at 75 percent of valuation, while residential homes are assessed at 95 percent. Farm land values increased rapidly because neighbors were willing to pay as much as $10,000 to $13,000 per acre for the land. Though the resulting increase in values is not fair for those who aren't selling their land, a "rising tide lifts all boats," so to speak. This inequity must be addressed at the state level, and I hope sooner rather than later.

Platte County's tax levies have decreased the last four years, not only because of the increased valuations, but because the current board and our predecessors have tried to keep a handle on spending. Our current levy of 20 cents per $100 valuation is less than half of the 45 cents we are allowed to levy by state statute. I was surprised to learn that of every 20 cents the county receives in property taxes, only a nickel goes to the roads department.

Rising health care premiums, tougher road standards, increasing state mandates in probation and juvenile services, court-appointed attorney fees and almost 500 bridges and hundreds of miles of roads in need of repairs and maintenance are some of the issues that presently have our attention. Supervisors are taxpayers, also. At the same time, we must attract and retain good people to serve our citizens. Federal cost-of-living adjustments are used as a guide when preparing budgets.

Our departments are encouraged to "buy locally" in Platte County; we charge the state of Nebraska to house state prisoners; and will continue discussions with the city of Columbus on mutual cost-saving endeavors. We merged our veterans service office with Colfax County to better serve our veterans, and they are provided transportation to several VA hospitals in the state if other transportation isn't available.

An example of trying to get the best value for your tax dollars is the relocation of the county Extension offices. For more than two years, many knowledgeable and involved citizens have pointed out various problems with the basement offices and requested a new location. We heard numbers/estimates from $700,000 to $1 million for a different facility and explored many alternatives. Many individuals were involved in finding a space that satisfies most of the needs, and even a few of the wants, for a fourth of the costly estimates. We hope you will be happy with the new digs when they are announced.

A final thought: As we became adults and started raising our families, we were encouraged to put away three to six months' income into a "rainy day" fund in case of a severe injury or family emergency that could affect our family income. The inheritance fund, to which very few of us have actually contributed, is the county's rainy day fund. We can discuss the proper amount necessary; however, if it is raided for instant gratification, the county will need to increase the budget (taxes) to remain prepared for emergencies and, as in the case of the Extension office, certain opportunities.

Again, my own opinions.
Echoing former RBI Governor Y.V. Reddy, former Union Finance Minister P. Chidambaram said on Saturday that demonetisation move put the central bank's reputation at great risk and dubbed the whole process a "command performance".

He also dubbed the demonetisation as a "terrible decision that was terribly implemented".

Asked whether the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) autonomy was over or not, the former Union Minister said: "On this issue, the answer is yes."

"Reversing the sequence stipulated in the Act... instead of the Reserve Bank recommending withdrawal of legal tender status for the (high-denomination) currency, the government recommended to the bank that the legal tender status should be taken away."

Recalling the build-up to the November 8 demonetisation announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the senior Congress leader said: "That was on November 7 when the RBI Board (meeting) was called. Was there a written notice? They will not tell us."

"How many people attended? They will not tell us. Was there an agenda paper for the meeting? Were there minutes of the meeting? They will not tell us. How long the meeting lasted? They will not tell us," he said.

"I have information that the meeting lasted 30 minutes and the recommendations were made to the government. The Cabinet was waiting for the recommendations," he claimed.

"How could the Cabinet know that the RBI will recommend the withdrawal of legal tender status? It was a command performance," he said.

Echoing Reddy, Chidambaram said: "And to that extent, in this instance, the Reserve Bank's reputation has been put at a great risk, the point which (ex) Governor Reddy made."

The senior Congress leader said he would have resigned if demonetisation was implemented during his term as Finance Minister.

"In the last 50 years, no major economy has demonetised its currency. India has been added to the list that includes Zimbabwe, North Korea and Libya," Chidambaram said, adding that demonetisation was a "terrible decision that was terribly implemented".

Taking a swipe at Modi, he said: "My real grievance on demonetisation is that the decision of this magnitude with enormous consequences cannot be taken, or is not to be taken, by one person."

Chidambaram said three important official of the Finance Ministry -- the Finance Secretary, Banking Secretary and the Chief Economic Adviser -- should be involved in the (any proposed) demonetisation and they should be in the forefront in telling about and defending the scrapping of currency.

He said none of them had spoken a work in the last 70 days.

"What it means is that the three most important officials of the Finance Ministry concerned were not consulted; if they were consulted, they disagreed," he added.

Chidambaram said former RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan opposed demonetisation and formally put his view on the issue in a five-page note to the Prime Minister's Office.

"In retrospect, I suspect one of the reasons why his term was not extended was that the government was in a hurry to demonetise," he said.

"That is why 64 days after the new Governor (Urjit Patel) assumed office, we have demonetisation," he added.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Actor Robert Downey Jr reportedly went skinny dipping at a hotel here.

According to a source, the "Iron Man" actor flashed his manhood while swimming naked in an empty guest pool at St. Regis Hotel in Punta Mita, reports aceshowbiz.com.

"(Robert) gave giggling female guests a full-monty glimpse of his rod, er, bod when he padded stark naked out of his swanky St. Regis suite in Punta Mita, Mexico, for a late night skinny-dip, dirty-diving into its huge, empty guest pool," a source told National Enquirer newspaper.

"When a sharp eyed female vacationer spotted Downey splash down stark naked, word spread around the resort quicker than Montezuma's revenge, and suddenly, naughty rich ladies were dashing out on their balconies, panting and hungry for sneak peeks at the stripped-down star.

"There's no question: All agreed 'Iron Man' looked great... and he packs one big burrito," the source added.

--IANS

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Ethiopia, where Indian teachers have long been revered, is again looking at Indian teachers and trainers in various fields as the ancient East African nation, where one of the earliest traces of human existence has been found, shifts its economy from an agrarian to an industrial one.

"In 1950-60 when we were expanding our education system, India came to our rescue because we did not have any teacher training colleges. Later, when our capacity grew, we started training elementary and high school teachers. Today, we are expanding our higher education and have close to 500 Indian professors in our colleges and universities," Ethiopian Ambassador Gennet Zewide, who completed eight years in India this month, told IANS in an interview.

"Our tryst with education has further diversified. Not only we take teachers from here but also we bring our Ethiopian students to India. The Ethiopian government consciously gives scholarships to train its would-be professors and instructors at universities in India. So we have close to 500 Ethiopian instructors studying in India," said the amiable envoy who, before her stint in New Delhi, served as the country's education minister 1992-2005. She is an academic who taught business education courses and designed administration programmes.

Ethiopia has already tied up with institutes like the South Indian Textile Research Association (SITRA), the National Institute of Fashion Technology and the Footwear Design and Development Institute. "These institutes train people for the industry in our country," the envoy said.

"They give technical assistance as well. They travel to give short-term training to our people and we also bring our students here," she added.

"A team from the Metal and Metallurgy Institute of Ethiopia will be coming in a month's time to talk with the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). This tie-up will help in knowledge and technology sharing," she said.

The team will be visiting the three CSIR institutes - the National Metallurgical Laboratory, Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute and the Central Electronics Engineering Research Institute.

(Aparajita Gupta can be contacted at aparajita.g@ians.in)
Five soldiers were trapped after their snow tracks caved on Saturday near the Line of Control in north Kashmir's Kupwara district.

The incident comes just days after two avalanches hit a military post and a patrol along the Line of Control, killing 15.

Police sources said five soldiers of 56 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) were trapped under snow and a rescue operation was on to save them.

The RR party was on routine counter insurgency duties when the mishap occurred, the sources said.

Kashmir has seen heavy snow this week and authorities had warned of the "high danger" of avalanches. Power and communication lines are also down in some areas.

Officials evacuated dozens of residents from high-risk areas after authorities issued an avalanche warning in many parts of the region.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
An India-origin researcher has put together a system that would help analyse whether your tweet is credible or not, a report said.

A team led by Georgia Tech Ph.D. candidate Tanushree Mitra scanned 66 million tweets linked to nearly 1,400 real-world events to build a language model that identified words and phrases that lead to strong or weak perceived levels of credibility on Twitter.

"There have been many studies about social media credibility in recent years but very little is known about what types of words or phrases create credibility perceptions during rapidly unfolding events," Mitra said in a statement.

The team looked at tweets surrounding events in 2014 and 2015, including the emergence of Ebola in West Africa, the Charlie Hebdo attack in Paris and the death of Eric Garner in New York City.

The team asked people to judge the posts on their credibility -- from "certainly accurate" to "certainly inaccurate" -- and then fed the words into a model that split them into 15 different linguistic categories.

The Georgia Tech computer then examined the words to judge if the tweets were credible or not.

It matched the humans' opinions about 68 per cent of the time. That's significantly higher than the random baseline of 25 per cent, the research said.

"Tweets with booster words, such as 'undeniable,' and positive emotion terms, such as 'eager' and 'terrific,' were viewed as highly credible," Mitra said.

"Words indicating positive sentiment but mocking the impracticality of the event, such as 'ha,' 'grins' or 'joking,' were seen as less credible. So were hedge words, including 'certain level' and 'suspects,'" she added.

Higher numbers of retweets also correlated with lower credibility scores. Replies and retweets with longer message lengths were thought to be more credible.

"It could be that longer message lengths provide more information or reasoning, so they're viewed as more trustworthy," she said.

"On the other hand, a higher number of retweets, which was scored lower on credibility, might represent an attempt to elicit collective reasoning during times of crisis or uncertainty," she added.

The system, when deployed, could eventually become an app that displays the perceived trustworthiness of an event as it unfolds on social media.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Philippines President and Chair of the Asean for 2017 Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Saturday exchanged greetings on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the dialogue partnership between India and the regional bloc, the External Affairs Ministry said in a statement.

In his message to Duterte, Modi said that "our shared bonds of heritage and culture are built on the foundation of strong people-to-people contacts nurtured through the millennia".

"It is in consonance with this that the theme of the 25 years celebrations has been selected as 'Shared Values, Common Destiny' reflecting our joint endeavour for a shared future defined by mutual cooperation, peace, progress and prosperity," he said.

"India's Act East Policy is a reflection of the importance we attach to our strategic partnership with Asean, of which we mark five years alongside 15 years of our summit-level partnership."

It was on January 28, 1992, at the Fourth Asean Summit in Singapore that a decision to establish a Sectoral Dialogue Partnership between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) and India was made. The two sides became full dialogue partners in 1996, Summit partners in 2002 and Strategic Partners in 2012.

The 10 member states of Asean are Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

Modi stated that India greatly valued Asean's role as a proponent of peace, stability and prosperity in the region, and "reiterates its support to Asean centrality in regional affairs".

"Our economic partnership remains dynamic and urge Asean support for reaping the full benefits of the Asean-India Free Trade Area in goods, services and investment," he said.

"The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership could further strengthen cooperation and economic integration in our region if we are able to achieve an inclusive, comprehensive, balanced and mutually beneficial agreement, with equal ambition in goods, services and investment."

President Duterte, in his congratulatory message, praised the ground-breaking initiatives taken by India across the political-security, economic and socio-cultural pillars of the Asean-India strategic partnership for mutual benefit.

He noted that Asean-India relations have contributed to the maintenance of peace, stability and prosperity in the region, and that Asean looked forward to further invigorating trade and investment relations with India.

He expressed special appreciation for India's commitment of a $1-billion line of credit for connectivity with Asean as well as for undertaking initiatives for narrowing the development gap within Asean.

In separate messages, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Asean Secretary General Le Luong Minh also exchanged greetings to mark the occasion.

A series of events have been planned through the year to reflect the commemorative year's theme of "Shared Values, Common Destiny" to reflect the close cultural and civilisational links that India and Southeast Asia have enjoyed over two millennia.

In her message, Sushma Swaraj stated that the celebrations would span the political, economic, cultural and people-to-people domains and would include a special commemorative summit and a commemorative foreign ministers' meeting in India.

In addition, a youth summit, a business summit, CEOs forum, regional Indian diaspora meet, car rally, sailing expedition, conferences, public competitions and cultural festivals are also planned in India as well as in Asean countries.

Asean is India's fourth largest trading partner, accounting for 10.2 per cent of India's total trade. India is Asean's seventh largest trading partner.

Investment flows are also robust both ways, with Singapore being the principal hub for both inward and outward investment, according to the ministry statement.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Actress Mischa Barton, who came back home after being hospitalised for mental evaluation earlier this week, has revealed that prior to hospitalisation, she was drugged with GHB, a date rape drug, while celebrating her birthday with a group of friends leading to her disturbing behaviour.

Barton was given the drug on Wednesday night.

It was previously reported that Barton was spotted hanging over the backyard fence of her home in West Hollywood, California on Thursday morning.

She has opened up about her drink being drugged during her birthday celebration.

"On the evening of the 25th, I went out with a group of friends to celebrate my birthday," Barton told people.com.

"While having drinks, I realised that something was not right as my behaviour was becoming erratic and continued to intensify over the next several hours," she added.

She stated: "I voluntarily went to get professional help, and I was informed by their staff that I had been given GHB," before confirming that she's home and doing well "after an overnight stay."

Barton also thanked "the professionals at Cedars Sinai for their great care and professionalism," adding: "This is a lesson to all young women out there, be aware of your surroundings."

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Missing Pakistani blogger Salman Haider has been found, Geo News reported, quoting police sources.

Haider, a poet and academic who has been a vocal opponent of religious extremism and the Pakistani authorities' abuse of opposition activists, had been reported missing from Islamabad on January 8. His disappearance led to an online campaign for his safe return.

At least five bloggers and activists reportedly disappeared in the country and Haider was the best known among them. The others who have vanished were critical of organised religion, the influence of clerics in Pakistan and the country's powerful military on social media.

According to family of Haider, he was with friends in the Bani gala area here and told his wife that he would return soon. But later she received a text message from Haider's phone saying his car should be taken from Koral Chowk.

Hundreds protested in major cities in Pakistan, calling for the activists' safe return. Relatives and rights groups allege that the country's powerful Inter-Services Intelligence agency was behind the disappearances as part of a larger crackdown on dissent.

No group had claimed responsibility for the abductions.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tribute to Lala Lajpat Rai on his 151st birth anniversary.

Paying homage to the leader who is known for his contribution to the Independence movement, Modi said Lala Lajpat Rai was respected for his "fearlessness, impeccable integrity and fight against injustice."

Rai, popularly known as Punjab Kesari was part of the "Lal Bal Pal" trio.

He was one of the three extremist members of the Indian National Congress who gave their life for the independence of India along with Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Bipin Chandra Pal.

Rai was born on January 28, 1865 and died on November 17, 1928.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The shooting of filmmaker Chakri Toleti's Tamil invasion thriller "Kolayuthir Kaalam" commenced here on Saturday and actress Nayanthara has joined the sets.

YSR Films, one of the producers of the film, tweeted on Saturday: "Our production no 1 'Kolayuthir Kaalam' shooting started in London. Stay tuned for exclusive updates."

The film is loosely based on English indie hit "Hush" - a story of a deaf and mute author who is struggling to complete the climax of her latest novel when she falls prey to a psycho killer.

Nayanthara, too, plays a deaf and mute character.

However, it is not known whether she is playing an author or not.

The first look poster of the film was released in December last year when the project was officially announced.

Yuvan Shankar Raja has been roped in to compose the music. He will co-produce the film with Vashu Bhagnani and Deepshikha Deshmukh.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
One of the hardest things a person can do is uproot their family and move to a location where you have no friends, no family and very few acquaintances. But that is exactly what we did seven months ago when my family moved to Columbus after I was lucky enough to accept the superintendent position at Lakeview Community Schools.

We moved from the quaint, small town of York where we had been living for the past nine years and personally knew 90 percent of the people we would see walking down the street. This security of knowing everyone made me fearful about living in a larger town, not being accepted, and feeling like an outsider in the community.

Boy, was I worried for no reason.

I cant imagine a more inviting school district to become a part of than Lakeview or a more accepting community to have moved into than Columbus, Nebraska. Lakeview patrons have gone out of their way to help my family become acclimated to beautiful northeast Nebraska. Columbus has opened their arms to ensure my family felt like we belonged and were comfortable. Everyone has been so kind to introduce themselves (sometimes twice if I forgot their name) and offer a hand wherever needed to make us feel more connected. All in all, we have moved to one fantastic location.

One of the very first things I noticed about the community is the immense amount of pride. The Columbus community is not just one that people live in, but one they love. People are proud of the history and tradition, but also excited about the future. I can tell there is buy-in to growth and prosperity. This pride is completely infectious as I have found that same pride pumping through me, even after such a short time at Lakeview.

Nebraska values are another attribute of the community that was immediately evident. As soon as we acclimated ourselves to the area, I knew people at Lakeview and in Columbus valued hard work, integrity and the pursuit of a greater good. These are values I can stand behind and ones I am happy to raise my kids around. These core values are solid and I truly believe they guide the decisions of the community.

In short, I want to thank everyone for their generosity and accepting my family with open arms. I am so proud to be at Lakeview and live in the Columbus community. It truly is a special place.
Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai on Saturday said she was "heartbroken" by President Donald Trump's executive order calling for new vetting of refugees entering the US.

"I am heartbroken that Trump is closing the door on children, mothers and fathers fleeing violence and war," the women's education rights activist said in a statement posted on Facebook.

"I am heartbroken that America is turning its back on a proud history of welcoming refugees and immigrants -- the people who helped build your country, ready to work hard in exchange for a fair chance at a new life," Yousafzai said.

"I am heartbroken that Syrian refugee children, who have suffered through six years of war by no fault of their own, are singled out for discrimination," the statement continued.

Yousafzai cited an example of Zaynab, who fled wars in three countries -- Somalia, Yemen and Egypt -- before she was even 17, saying she was heartbroken for girls like her.

The activist said "today Zaynab, who came to the US in 2014 and now in a college studying human rights, her hope of being reunited with her precious little sister separated when she fled unrest in Egypt, dims".

"In this time of uncertainty and unrest around the world, I ask President Trump not to turn his back on the world's most defenceless children and families."

The White House did not provide immediate details about Trump's executive order, but reports said the US would stop issuing visas to people coming from several Muslim-majority countries, including Iran, Sudan, Syria, Libya, Somalia, Yemen and Iraq.

People from countries such as Afghanistan, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia will face "extreme vetting", the US President said.

The order is also expected to indefinitely block refugees from war-torn Syria from entering the US and suspend all refugee admissions for 120 days while the administration determines which countries pose the least risk.

Yousafzai is an advocate for women's education who survived a terrorist attack when she was shot by the Taliban in 2012.

In 2014, she became the youngest person to win the Nobel Peace Prize at the age of 17.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Finnish telecommunications giant has created a customised digital assistant "MIKA" that will improve telecom operators' efficiency by providing engineers faster access to critical information.

MIKA that stands for 'Multi-purpose Intuitive Knowledge Assistant'  is the first digital assistant trained specifically for the telecom industry, designed to provide automated assistance that saves time and frees highly skilled workers to focus on critical tasks.

"MIKA taps into the power of the AVA platform to provide quick and accurate answers, avoiding time wasted on fruitless searches. It is customised to support the specific needs of telecoms, and can deliver recommendations based on experience from networks around the world," said Igor Leprince, Head of Global Services at Nokia, in a statement.

MIKA combines augmented intelligence with automated learning to provide access to an extensive range of tools, documents and data sources.

These include the AVA knowledge library, a repository of best practices gathered from Nokia projects around the world.

Using the knowledge library MIKA can provide recommendations based on similar issues seen in other networks.

MIKA is available via a web interface and mobile agent so that engineers can tap into its knowledge base, wherever they are.

In addition to launching MIKA, Nokia introduces 'Predictive Repair', a service that will enable operators to reduce costs and improve network quality by moving away from break-fix approaches to hardware maintenance.

"The care service can predict hardware failures and recommend replacements up to 14 days in advance, with up to 95% accuracy," the company said.
Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Saturday rejected the panel formed by the Centre to resolve the ongoing Mahanadi water sharing dispute with neighbouring Chhattisgarh.

The Negotiating Committee will only delay the setting up of a Tribunal which will allow Chhattisgarh to complete the construction of the disputed projects, said the Chief Minister in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"I also wish to state that the Committee is not in accordance with the provisions of Sec 4(1) of the Inter State River Water Disputes Act of 1956 and its composition is arbitrary," he said.

Patnaik requested the Prime Minister to instruct the Ministry of Water Resources to withdraw the office memorandum constituting the committee and initiate the constitution of a Tribunal, reasoning that water disputes raised in the statutory complaint of Odisha government cannot be resolved by negotiations.

Patnaik also raised concern regarding Centre's nomination of Engineer in Chief of Odisha into the committee , saying the state should have been the authority to choose its representatives in the panel.

"The negotiation should be between constitutional functionaries and if any nomination of official is permissible, the chief secretary or the principal secretary in the water resources department should be the nominee," he said.

He also urged Modi to direct the Chhattisgarh government to stop ongoing works on the Mahanadi river basin immediately.

"However, as a last and final chance to settle the dispute by negotiations, I am open to attend a meeting at your level, if the meeting of the Chief Ministers of the riparian states is called immediately," said the Chief Minister.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Pakistan has expressed the hope that the Saarc summit, scheduled to be held here in November last year and postponed due to the boycott by India, will be organised soon.

Adviser to Pakistani Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz on Friday talked to Arjun Bahadur Thapa, the outgoing Secretary General of South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc), that India "impeded the process and violated the spirit of the Saarc Charter".

"Pakistan remains committed to hosting the 19th Saarc Summit here at the earliest so that the objectives of regional cooperation under the Saarc umbrella can be pursued more vigorously," Xinhua news agency quoted Aziz as saying.

According to Nepal, the current Saarc Chair, the conference was cancelled after Bangladesh, Bhutan, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka followed India's decision to boycott the summit.

Thapa emphasised the need to overcome the difficulties that the organisation faced and expressed the hope that the summit would be held as soon as possible.

The boycott from the Indian side came as relations between the neighbouring nations dipped after the September 18 attack at an Indian Army base in Uri town of Kashmir that left 19 soldiers dead. India blamed Pakistani militants for the attack.

Aziz reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to regional cooperation under the framework of Saarc for promoting welfare of the people of South Asia, improving their quality of life, economic progress, social uplift and cultural cooperation.

Aziz believed the Saarc Secretariat could play an important role as catalyst to bring all the member states together and ensure timely and effective implementation of programmes and activities that would benefit the region.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The new sheriff in town declared he could be the most presidential of all chiefs before him perhaps with the exception of Honest Abe, but then who would get things done!

With that salute to America's Civil War icon Abraham Lincoln, Donald Trump, now the President of the United States (POTUS), launched an all out (un)civil war keeping media in the bull's eye.

Even as he thanked Barack Obama for a "beautiful" and "thoughtful" letter left in his Oval Office drawer, the Donald with a flurry of executive orders took the wrecking ball to his predecessor's policies from immigration to trade.

Ticking off his campaign promises, a fast and furious Trump signed a score of orders in seven days to pull America out of two major trade treaties, started dismantling Obama's signature healthcare law and moved to build that big beautiful wall on the border with Mexico.

He threatened to send the Feds to Chicago if Obama's adoptive hometown failed to check violence and cut federal funds to hundreds of sanctuary cities, including the national capital, that harbour illegal immigrants in defiance of Washington.

And when Mexico refused to pay for what its former leader called that "F---ing Wall," he forced the Mexican president Enrique Pena Nieto to cancel a visit to US and set off a bitter feud with the Southern neighbour.

In pursuit of his "America First" policy, he assured India's Narendra Modi that he considers "India a true friend and partner", "repaired" the "US-Israel special relationship," and welcomed Britain's Theresa May as she hailed Trump's term as a "new era of American renewal."

But in the midst of all the action, pundits seemed fixated on what many glibly called his "false claims" and "lies" about three to five million illegal immigrants voting for Democratic rival Hillary Clinton to deny him a victory in popular vote.

Instead of analysing the impact of his bold moves, the chatterati spent endless hours breathlessly examining Trump's "insecurity" and his obsession with the size of the crowd that came to watch his inauguration.

Though a few did acknowledge that the twitter thumb master manipulator of Manhattan now ensconced in the White House had once again changed the conversation.

No one was talking about a million plus people in pink pussycat ear hats protesting against Trump at 673 women's rallies from Moscow to Manchester with the one in Washington drawing the biggest crowd.

Vulgar signs like "This pussy grabs back" - a reference to Trump's trash talk about women-and an "angry" "outraged" pop megastar Madonna dropping F-bombs galore and talking "about blowing up the White House" did not help their cause either.

As the women marched towards his new digs, Trump took a trip to the CIA headquarters to assure the intelligence community that his alleged feud with them over claims of Russian hacking to help him win the election was a media invention.

Journalists are "the most dishonest human beings on earth, Trump declared citing "a running war with the media" as the reason they had downplayed the size of the crowd that came to watch him take the oath of office.

"This was the largest audience to ever witness an inauguration-period -- both in person and around the globe," his press secretary Sean Spicer insisted in an angry outburst even as photographs showed much larger crowds at Obama's historic 2009 inauguration.

And when a TV anchor accused the White House of pedalling "falsehood," Trump's equally combative counsellor Kellyanne Conway hit back brazenly suggesting "you're saying it's a falsehood" while "Spicer gave alternative facts."

"Our intention is never to lie to you - although sometimes we may 'disagree on facts,'" a more composed and smiling Spicer assured later in a bid to mollify the media even as he complained afresh about persistent negative "demoralising" coverage of Trump.

But the boss would have none of it. "I think the media is the opposition party in many ways," Trump said echoing the words of his chief strategist Stephen Bannon who had a day earlier advised an "embarrassed and humiliated" media to "keep its mouth shut."

No wonder sales of "1984", George Orwell's dystopian novel about a society in which facts are distorted in a "newspeak" are soaring amid demands to legalise pot in the American capital in the Trump era!

(Arun Kumar can be contacted at arun.kumar@ians.in)

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Film & Television Producers Guild of India Ltd has condemned the attack on ace filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali by activists of a Rajput organisation, Shree Rajput Karni Sena, on the sets of his upcoming film "Padmavati" in Jaipur. It has also urged the Indian government to take "immediate steps" against "miscreants".

The activists assaulted Bhansali on Friday, slapped him and tore up his shirt.

Guild President Siddharth Roy Kapur said in a statement: "As President of The Film & Television Producers Guild of India Ltd and speaking on behalf of the entire film industry, I strongly condemn the acts of vandalism on the sets of 'Padmavati' as a direct attack on freedom of expression in our democracy.

"The film industry has become the softest target for any fringe group looking for media attention, and we need the strongest possible intervention from the concerned authorities to end this and to end it now.

Kapur further went on and added: "We stand united and unflinching in our support of Sanjay Leela Bhansali, and urge the Government of India and the state government of Rajasthan to take immediate steps to ensure the strongest possible punitive action is taken against these miscreants, so it serves as a deterrent in preventing the recurrence of such unacceptable events in the future."

The Guild has made a plea to the concerned ministries and authorities to promptly initiate measures against these elements to send out a strong message to other misinformed individuals and bodies that such acts will not be tolerated in the future and thereby provide a timely deterrent against the repetition of these unacceptable incidents.

Bhansali, whose 2015 release "Bajirao Mastani" was also criticised by a section of the society for "distorting" history, was shooting some shots of "Padmavati" in Jaigarh Fort.

"Padmavati" tells the story of Alauddin Khilji, the medieval-era Delhi ruler, who fell in love with Rajput queen Padmavati.

Actors Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone and Shahid Kapoor star in the film.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi on Saturday made a frontal attack on the "massive corruption" by the family of Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal and questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his claim of fighting corruption while supporting the Punjab's corrupt regime.

Rahul said that Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal, who is the ruling Shiromani Akali Dal President, was an "icon of corruption".

"Sukhbir Badal is an icon of corruption. The biggest corruption in any state of the country is occurring in Punjab," Rahul said at a rally in support of Congress candidate Ravneet Singh Bittu.

Bittu, a Congress MP from Ludhiana, is pitted against Sukhbir Singh Badal from Jalalabad assembly seat for the February 4 assembly elections. The seat is witnessing a high-profile contest with AAP MP and satirist Bhagwant Mann also in the fray.

Questioning Prime Minister Narendra Modi's claims of fighting corruption, Rahul said: "Modi should explain why is he supporting Sukhbir if he is fighting corruption?"

Rahul said Sukhbir Badal, whose party the Shiromani Akali Dal has an alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party in the state since 2007, said that the SAD had deviated from the ideology of Sikhism's founder Guru Nanak Dev.

"Sukhbir Badal claims he is protecting the Sikh religion and ideology of Guru Nanak Dev. But Sukhbir and the Akali Dal say everything is theirs," the Congress leader said.

He said the Badal family had monopolised all businesses in the state, including transport, cable TV and mining etc., and were getting commission from liquor trade.

"The Badals have finished all industry in Punjab. They don't allow people from other countries and states to invest and start industry here. Industry has moved to other states and Punjab youths are rendered jobless," Rahul said.

He said the youths were being denied government jobs by the Badal government.

"Amarinder Singh (Congress Chief Ministerial candidate) would change the face of Punjab, which had been completely devastated by the corrupt and tyrannical Badals, in just two years after taking over as Chief Minister, Rahul said.

Every section of the society would progress under the Congress, which was the only party concerned about the poor," he added.

The Congress Vice-President cautioned people against supporting the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of Arvind Kejriwal.

"Punjab needs a Chief Minister from Punjab. (Arvind) Kejriwal runs Delhi like a dictator," he said.

He reiterated that Congress Punjab unit Chief Amarinder Singh would again be the Chief Minister if the party returns to power in Punjab.

On Friday too, Rahul Gandhi had slammed Modi as well the Akali Dal over the issue of corruption.

"Modi talks of corruption and religion at various places. But how can he stand with the corrupt Akali Dal leaders and talk of fighting corruption," Gandhi wondered at an election rally in Akali stronghold Majitha in Amritsar district.

Majitha is represented in the assembly by Revenue Minister Bikram Singh Majithia, who is a brother-in-law of Sukhbir Badal and brother of Union Minister Harsimrat Kaur.

The 117-member Punjab assembly will go to polls on February 4. The counting of votes will be held on March 11.

The main contest is between the ruling SAD-BJP alliance, the Congress and the AAP.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Defending tickets given to kin of party MLAs and MPs, Bharatiya Janata Party President Amit Shah on Saturday took a dig at Congress Vice-President Rahul Gandhi, saying if he were to get married, his yet-to-be-born child would be anointed the next leader of the opposition party.

He was responding to a pointed query on whether giving tickets to family members of senior BJP leaders amounted to promoting dynastic rule.

He said Rahul Gandhi's family was an example of dynastic in the country.

"... it was decided that after Nehru, it would be Indira (Gandhi); after her, Rajiv bhai; and after him, Rahul Gandhi... that is what we are opposed to," Shah said.

The BJP chief claimed giving tickets to the kin of MLAs and MPs was not dynastic .

Asked if the an alliance between Rahul Gandhi's party and Samajwadi Party of Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav will make any difference to the BJP's prospects in Uttar Pradesh, Shah replied in the negative.

"The alliance poses no challenge to us," he said, adding that in the new alliance, only the Samajwadi Party was of some consequence.

"Akhilesh has looted the state while Rahul Gandhi has looted the country; now both are planning to plunder Uttar Pradesh jointly but the people are wise enough," he added.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A literary session being addressed by student activist Kanhaiya Kumar had to be cut short at the Tata Steel Kolkata Literary Meet (KLM) here on Saturday after ultra-Left activists raised slogans against him.

Kumar, who has penned a book 'Bihar to Tihar', was addressing a session of the KLM at Rabindra Sarobar Stadium here.

But activists, under the platform of Bastar Solidarity Network India, raised slogans against the former Jawaharlal Nehru University's Students' Union president for attending a literary meet organised by the Tatas and "accepting corporate hospitality".

The protesters raised slogans such as "Kashmir Maange Azaadi" and "Maqbool Maange Azaadi" and carried banners criticising the Tata Steel sponsors.

Kumar tried to reason with the protesters, but was forced to halt his programme due to the continuous slogan shouting. He apologised to the audience for not being able to answer their questions.

He also said: "I did not expect this to happen in Kolkata."

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Saying that terrorism has now become increasingly malignant, Bangladeshi Novelist Shazia Omar has said creating more space for dialogue and tolerance is the way to fight Islamic radicalism.

"In this age of technology the spread of terrorism is becoming much more malignant," Omar said on Friday during an interactive session at the Kolkata Literary Meet here.

Speaking on the subject "triple challenges of Islamophobia, stereotypes and radicalisation", the author of the 2016 novel 'Black Diamond' stressed the need for knowledge, education and interaction to take on Islamic radicalism.

"The best way to fight it (Islamic radicalisation) is to create space for people to have dialogue, have tolerance to live and let live and through knowledge, education and more interaction, maybe we can break away from the increasingly homogeneous interpretation of what Islam should be and make space for more expression," Omar said.

The product of the London School of Economics said women should become leaders and break the historical stereotypes of being dominated.

"Throughout history we have seen this imbalance where women have not been in positions of power. Women should be encouraged to become leaders. If the whole world is led by women, I wonder if we would still have incidents like a war or building walls," she said amid much cheer from the audience.

Omar described how with her three run-ins with terrorism in three continents, she felt the scourge was coming closer, and said the spread of the "radical ideology and the way some people are taking it into their heart is very frightening".

"Little pockets of terrorism are springing up everywhere," she lamented.

The novelist said she was in New York during the 2001 World Trade Center attack and then she considered the terrorist threat to be a "distant enemy".

But her idea of terrorism changed during the 2005 London tube station bombings as "the bombers were just like a guy with a backpack sitting next to you".

Her third brush with terrorism during the attack at the Holey Artisan Bakery in Dhaka on July 1 last year was "most horrifying".

Omar said the Spanish cafe belonged to her cousin. The massacre left 29 persons, including five attackers, dead.

"It was done by the boys who went to the same school my cousins went to. It seemed the distant enemy has increasingly come closer and closer," she said.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
UK Prime Minister Theresa May is set to discuss a post-Brexit trade deal with Turkey during talks with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, media reported.

The premier is set to arrive in Ankara on Saturday from the US, where she met President Donald Trump, the BBC reported.

A new trading relationship with Turkey following the UK's exit from the European Union (EU) would form part of the discussions, Downing Street announced.

The premier is also expected to discuss security, May's spokeswoman said.

"They will be discussing a new trade relationship (and) a strategic security partnership," she added.

May's first prime ministerial visit to Turkey comes as President Erdogan is clamping down on opponents following the failed military coup in July 2016.

Asked whether May would raise human rights concerns since the coup, the spokeswoman said Britain had "expressed our strong support for Turkey's democracy and institutions following the coup."

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Japanese tech giant Toshiba's chairman Shigenori Shiga, plans to resign over the expected massive write-down in the companys US nuclear business, sources said on Saturday.

Shiga once served as president of the US nuclear unit, Westinghouse Electric Co., which Toshiba has said could face a multi-billion dollar loss due to cost overruns from delays in plant projects, The Japan Times reported.

The industrial conglomerate may announce his resignation on February 14 when it reports its April-December financial results, the sources said. The post of Toshiba chairman is expected to remain vacant after Shiga's resignation.

Westinghouse Chairman Danny Roderick is also expected to step down, but Toshiba President Satoshi Tsunakawa is likely to stay on.

Shiga, Roderick and Tsunakawa took their current posts last June as Toshiba reshuffled its management following an accounting scandal that surfaced in 2015.

Shiga was the vice president in charge of the power systems business when Westinghouse acquired CB&I Stone & Webster in late 2015.

The US nuclear plant construction firm is at the heart of the massive write-down problem.

On Friday, Toshiba said it will spin off its chip business to raise funds to cover the write-down.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Ties between the US and Britain have "never been stronger", US President Donald Trump said here as he welcomed British Prime Minister Theresa May to the White House.

"Great days lie ahead... On behalf of our nation, I thank you for joining us here today as a really great honor," Trump said during a joint press conference with May on Friday, the first foreign leader to meet the new US president, Efe news reported.

"Thank you for inviting me so soon after your inauguration and I'm delighted to be able to congratulate you on what was a stunning election victory," May said, going on to hail the US-Britain special relationship -- "a relationship based on the bonds of history, of family, kinship and common interests".

Trump, alluding to London's "Brexit" plan for withdrawal from the European Union, spoke of a "free and independent Britain" as a blessing and said that the US-Britain "relationship has never been stronger".

Both leaders agreed that negotiations on a new US-Britain trade pact will begin once London has completed the Brexit process and May announced that Trump had accepted Queen Elizabeth II's invitation for a state visit to Britain later this year.

When the subject shifted to international issues, May took the opportunity to reassure Europe regarding Trump's view of NATO, an alliance he has described as obsolete.

"Today we've reaffirmed our unshakeable commitment to this alliance -- Mr. President I think you confirmed that you are 100 per cent behind NATO," the British Prime Minister said.

In response to a question about Western sanctions against Russia over Moscow's annexation of Crimea, May said that Britain and other European nations wanted to see them continue.

Trump, who calls for better relations with Russia, said that it was "very early to be talking about" lifting the sanctions.

Time was also spent on the question of torture, which Trump praised during the election campaign and again this week in an interview.

Before making the trip to Washington, May faced pressure - even from within her own Conservative Party - to emphasize Britain's opposition to torture.

When the matter came up during Friday's press conference, Trump said he would be guided by the judgment of Defense Secretary James Mattis, a retired general who has disputed the effectiveness of torture methods such as waterboarding.

"He has stated publicly that he does not necessarily believe in torture or waterboarding, or however you want to define it," Trump said. "I don't necessarily agree. But I would tell you that he will override because I'm giving him that power. He's an expert."

--IANS

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(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
US President Donald Trump has re-decorated the Oval Office according to his opulent tastes with new gold curtains and a red-and-beige rug with green leaves, the media reported.

A CBS News report on Friday said that these changes came naturally to Trump whose family home is a three-storey penthouse in New York's Trump Tower.

His 'Versailles in the Sky', as it has come to be known, is accented with marble, the family "coat of arms", and paintings of Greek gods along with plenty of golden coloured items around the house.

One of the most notable choices Trump made in the Oval Office in accordance with his love of gilded decor, was replacing the red curtains used during former President Barack Obama's second term with a set of gold ones.

While used briefly by former President George W. Bush, these curtains ironically first hung in the Oval Office during Bill Clinton's presidency. President Bush ultimately swapped them out for a slightly different set of golden drapes, the report said.

The next replacement was the tan-and-navy rug which the Obama administration had laid out in 2010 with inspirational quotes from five American heroes around its outer edge.

But one item that Trump has retained from the previous administration is the Resolute Desk, as it is officially known, the most ornate of the Oval Office desks and also the most popular one, the report said.

Used by Obama, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, Ronald Reagan, Jimmy Carter, and John F. Kennedy, the Resolute Desk has been used by more US Presidents than the Hoover Desk, the Johnson Desk and the Wilson Desk combined.

Opulent and highly ornamented, its wood was salvaged from a British ship called the HMS Resolute, which explored the Arctic in the mid-1800s.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
US President Donald Trump's 'extreme vetting' executive order to bar entry to the US to refugees and immigrants from certain Muslim-majority countries has evoked widespread condemnation, including from Nobel Peace prize winner Malala Yousafzai and Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg.

The extreme vetting order will suspend the entry of immigrants and non-immigrants from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen for 90 days, whereas refugees from Syria were indefinitely banned. It added all refugee admissions to be suspended for 120 days, and refugee numbers would be cut down to a maximum of 50,000 in 2017 (less than half the previous year's figure of 117,000), and prioritise Christians refugees.

According the Guardian newspaper, the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) on Friday said it will file a federal lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the order "because its apparent purpose and underlying motive is to ban people of the Islamic faith from Muslim-majority countries from entering the US".

"There is no evidence that refugees -- the most thoroughly vetted of all people entering our nation -- are a threat to national security," said CAIR's Lena F. Masri. "This is an order that is based on bigotry, not reality."

World's youngest Nobel Peace prize winner Malala said she was "heartbroken" that America was "turning its back on a proud history of welcoming refugees and immigrants -- the people who helped build your country, ready to work hard in exchange for a fair chance at a new life".

She said: "I am heartbroken that Syrian refugee children, who have suffered through six years of war by no fault of their own, are singled out for discrimination."

Facebook chief executive Mark Zuckerberg said he was "concerned about the impact of the recent executive orders signed by Trump".

Zuckerberg, who is Jewish, said his great-grandparents came to the US from Germany, Austria and Poland and his wife's parents were refugees from China and Vietnam.

"The US is a nation of immigrants, and we should be proud of that," he said.

Zuckerberg expressed a hope that Trump would not reverse former President Barack Obama's decision to allow undocumented immigrants brought to this country as children to work in the US.

Khizr Khan, whose son Humayun Khan died saving his unit from an Iraqi suicide bomb and was a focus of attacks by Trump earlier this year, said the President's "race to violate constitutional principles and fundamental American values by targeting Muslims and immigrants is of tremendous concern".

Earlier this week, Nihad Awad of CAIR said Muslims would be "the sole targets" of Trump's action.

"These orders are a disturbing confirmation of Islamophobic and un-American policy proposals made during the presidential election campaign," he said.

Manar Waheed, a former political appointee for the Obama administration, told the Guardian that the President's order was a "de facto ban on Muslims" that would only serve to alienate key allies across the globe and millions of Muslims living in the US.

David Miliband, President and chief executive of the International Rescue Committee, said refugees were "fleeing terror -- they are not terrorists".

"At a time when there are more refugees than ever, America must remain true to its core values," the former British Foreign Secretary said. "The US must remain a beacon of hope."

Speaking on Thursday, a day before Trump announced his shift in refugee policy, Madeleine Albright, the former US Secretary of State, quoted the words enshrined beneath the Statue of Liberty.

That read: "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free."

"There is no fine print on the Statue of Liberty," said Albright, who came to the US as a child when her family fled Nazi persecution.

"Today she is weeping because of the actions of President Trump."

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
US President Donald Trump is expected to speak over telephone with the Prime Ministers of Japan and Australia, Shinzo Abe and Malcolm Turnbull respectively, on Saturday, according to the White House.

Donald Trump is also expected to talk on Saturday with French President Francois Hollande, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Russian President Vladimir Putin, the White House announced on Friday.

Moreover, Trump will sign new executive orders in the Oval Office, although the White House has not offered any details about the content, Efe news reported.

Trump is not scheduled to hold any public event on Sunday, the White House said.

Trump has had a hectic first week as president after being sworn in on January 20, with meetings in the White House, a trip to Philadelphia to attend a meeting of Republican lawmakers and the signing of several executive orders on health, trade and immigration.

He also received British Prime Minister Theresa May at the White House on Friday, his first meeting with a foreign leader.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
US President Donald Trump said he had a "very good" telephonic conversation with his Mexican counterpart Enrique Pena Nieto amid a diplomatic spat over Washington's plans for a border wall.

During a joint press conference with visiting British Prime Minister Theresa May on Friday, Trump confirmed that he and the Mexican president spoke for nearly an hour, Efe news reported.

"It was a very, very friendly call," Trump said.

"We are going to be working on a fair relationship, a new relationship," the US president said. "We are going to be renegotiating our trade deals."

The conversation came a day after Pena Nieto cancelled a planned visit to Washington in response to Trump's signing an executive order to initiate his promised border wall and insisting again that Mexico would ultimately pay for the barrier.

Pena Nieto's office issued a statement on Friday confirming the phone call and saying that the two presidents agreed to resolve their differences over the wall as part comprehensive discussions about all aspects of the bilateral relationship.

Trump and Pena Nieto also resolved to instruct their respective staffs not to make any further public comments about the issue of the wall, according to the Mexican government statement.

On Wednesday, the US president signed several executive orders affecting immigration, including one that assigns federal funds for the construction of the border wall.

In an interview with ABC News later that day, Trump said that while the US government would pay the initial construction costs, Mexico would ultimately reimburse Washington.

Pena Nieto has repeatedly insisted that Mexico will not foot the bill for the wall and did so again on Wednesday.

In a series of tweets on Thursday, Trump said Mexico should pay for the wall because it had long benefited from the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) at Americans' expense.

Citing the persistent US trade deficit with its southern neighbor, he said it would be better to cancel his January 31 meeting with Pena Nieto if Mexico refused to defray the cost of the wall.

Within hours of Trump's tweets, Pena Nieto announced that he would not be travelling to Washington, though the US leader described the cancellation as a mutual decision.

"The president of Mexico and myself have agreed to cancel our planned meeting scheduled for next week," Trump said Thursday during a gathering with congressional Republicans in Philadelphia.

"Unless Mexico is going to treat the US fairly, with respect, such a meeting would be fruitless and I want to go a different route. We have no choice," the president said.

Later Thursday, White House spokesman Sean Spicer told reporters that Trump intended to impose a 20 per cent tax on imports from Mexico to cover the cost of the wall.

The tax, however, cannot be immediately levied because of NAFTA, the 1994 accord linking the US, Canada and Mexico that the president has repeatedly criticized as a destroyer of American jobs.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
US President Donald Trump plans to open a dialogue with Russia that could lead to lifting of American sanctions, even as Britains visiting Prime Minister Theresa May and key Republican senators urged him not to let up the pressure on the Kremlin until it reverses its armed intervention in Ukraine, the media reported.

Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin intended to talk by telephone on Saturday about fighting terrorism in the Middle East, a collaboration that would represent a significant turnabout from years of friction between the two countries, the New York Times reported.

At the direction of the White House, US officials have been preparing memos outlining possible common ground, including the prospect of removing some or all of the sanctions imposed by former President Barack Obama.

Trump has suggested lifting the punitive measures in exchange for nuclear arms cuts and Russian cooperation in fighting the Islamic State, according to the report.

Asked about sanctions, the US President on Friday played down the possibility of quick action, but did not rule it out.

"As for sanctions, very early to be talking about that," Trump said at a White House conference with British PM Theresa May. "But we look to have a great relationship with all countries, ideally."

May warned Trump against easing sanctions unless Russia abides by a peace settlement for Ukraine negotiated in Minsk, the capital of Belarus.

Senator John McCain of Arizona also warned Trump against lifting sanctions and vowed to push legislation reinstating them if he does, a measure that has strong bipartisan support, including from Republicans like Senators Rob Portman of Ohio and Ben Sasse of Nebraska.

Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the majority leader, who has largely shunned confrontation with Trump, has also been a longstanding opponent of lifting sanctions, a position he forcefully reiterated on Friday.

According to the New York Times, one topic that may come up on Saturday's call is the fate of Austin Tice, a freelance journalist who disappeared in Syria in 2012.

Trump may ask Putin for help in pressuring Russia's ally, President Bashar al-Assad of Syria, to release Tice, according to an official briefed on the matter.

Syria has never acknowledged holding him, but Trump has considered dropping support for the Syrian opposition.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
US President Donald Trump said persecuted Christians will be given priority over other refugees seeking to enter the US, saying they have been "horribly treated".

Speaking with the Christian Broadcasting Network on Friday, Trump said that it had been "impossible, or at least very tough" for Syrian Christians to enter the US, CNN reported.

"If you were a Muslim you could come in, but if you were a Christian, it was almost impossible and the reason that was so unfair -- everybody was persecuted, in all fairness -- but they were chopping off the heads of everybody but more so the Christians. And I thought it was very, very unfair. So we are going to help them."

Trump did not name a reason or offer any evidence about why the agencies that vet refugees, including the Department of Homeland Security and the State Department, would have prioritized Muslim refugees over Christians.

According to a report by the non-partisan Pew Research Center, however, 99 per cent of the nearly 12,600 Syrians granted refugee status last year were Muslims. Less than 1 per cent were Christian. Syria's population is 87 per cent Muslim and 10 per cent Christian, according to the CIA World Fact Book.

Also on Friday, Trump signed an executive order freezing refugee applications from seven Muslim-majority countries in the Middle East and Africa, including Syria. It's unclear how his pledge to help persecuted Christians from those countries will accord with that plan.

The US admitted a record number of 38,901 Muslim refugees in 2016, according to a study conducted by Pew. But nearly the same number of Christians, 37,521 were also admitted.

Many religious groups have denounced Trump's proposed ban on refugees from Muslim-majority countries.

At the same time, many Christian groups that resettle refugees in the US decry the persecution of their brethren overseas but said the country should not give favour to fellow Christians or bar Muslims.

"We would resist that strongly," Scott Arbeiter, president of World Relief, the humanitarian arm of the National Association of Evangelicals and one of nine agencies that partner with the federal government to resettle refugees.

"Some of the most vulnerable people in the world right now are Muslims. If we say no Muslim should be let in, we are denying the humanity and dignity of people made in the image of God."

--IANS

pgh/

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RJD chief Lalu Prasad on Saturday said his party will organise a rally against demonetisation in the Bihar capital after the Uttar Pradesh assembly polls.

He also said that he would rope in like-minded political leaders for the proposed rally.

"We will hold a massive rally against the November 8 demonetisation after the Uttar Pradesh elections," the former Bihar Chief Minister told the media here.

The President of Rashtriya Janata Dal -- while is in power in Bihar along with Janata Dal-United and the Congress -- denied reports that the RJD will not organise the rally against the note ban in view of the pro-demonetisation stand of ally JD-U led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.

"I will talk to Congress President Sonia Gandhi, its Vice-President Rahul Gandhi, Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee and other like-minded leaders to join the proposed rally," Lalu said.

He said his party proposed to hold the rally early this year but decided to postpone it due to seven-phase assembly polls in Uttar Pradesh, scheduled to be held between February 11 and March 8.

Last December, RJD organised sit-ins at Patna and all district headquarters against demonetisation. Lalu participated in the 'maha dharna' in Patna.

--IANS

ik/tsb/vm

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Why did Congress Vice-president Rahul Gandhi have to declare a second time that the partys chief ministerial candidate in Punjab would be Captain Amarinder Singh? It was definitively and categorically to scotch the hopes of Navjot Singh Sidhu, who has been telling people that once he assumes command in Punjab, he will create conditions helpful for industry to invest within six months. Perhaps Sidhu did not realise that things have a way of getting back to the party leadership.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will on Saturday release its election manifesto for Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections.

BJP President Amit Shah will release the manifesto in Lucknow.

The BJP poll manifesto will counter the ruling Samajwadi Party's free smartphone, pressure cooker, e-rickshaws and bicycle to girls.

Although there is a less chance of the BJP going for announcement of some freebies, it will certainly have house for all and jobs for the youths in its manifesto.

Report suggests that the party would skip the Ram Temple issue this time.

The BJP earlier on January 22 promised a slew of populist schemes in its manifesto for Punjab Assembly polls like providing sugar and ghee at low prices, houses to the poor, land to Dalits and backwards, besides assuring Rs 5 lakh assistance to the families affected by militancy.

Union Finanace Minister Arun Jaitley, while releasing the document in Jalandhar, said the BJP's manifesto is particularly aimed at improving the social infrastructure in Punjab, even as he slammed the Congress for its policies which he alleged paved way for militancy in Punjab in 1980s and termed its 2002-2007 tenure in power as "most dishonest and corrupt".

Noting that the SAD-BJP government in Punjab is already running 'atta-dal' scheme, the BJP manifesto has promised providing two kg ghee for Rs 25 per kilo and five kg sugar at Rs 10 a kilo to the blue card holders in the state.

Uttar Pradesh is set to have a seven-phase polling between February 11 and March 8.
Five members of a family were critically injured after 20 armed dacoits attacked their house near Garobadha Lower Primary School, about 500 metres from Garobadha outpost in West Garo Hills district of Meghalaya today.

Police said quoting delayed reports that the attack took place on January 24 and the five critically injured persons were Tapan Ghosh (55), his wife Geetarani Ghosh (49) and sons Taposh Ghosh (30) and Rajesh Ghosh (28) and their aunt Suchitra Ghosh (32).

Deputy Commissioner of West Garo Hills, Pravin Bakshi stated that the matter would be taken up on a priority basis and investigations would follow.

"The matter is very serious and will be taken up with the police authorities. We will get to the bottom of the incident and action will be taken up. We will also discuss security of the villagers and ensure security is provided," said Bakshi.

Bakshi later informed that the SP of the district, Mukesh Singh, was aware and the investigation in the case has been entrusted to an ASP ranked officer.

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An abandoned mortar shell was found in a park at Vasant Kunj (North) in south Delhi this morning, creating sensation in the area with police cordoning off the area and calling National Security Guard (NSG) for defusing it.

The locals spotted the mortar shell lying in the park of Kishan Garh locality in Vasant Kunj area. They informed the police who reached there and cordoned off the entire area.

"A PCR call was received around 8.30 AM regarding the finding of the mortar shell in the park Machli Wala, Samadhi Van village, Kishan Garh, in Vasant Kunj(N). The entire area has been cordoned off and evacuated as a precautionary measure," said a senior police officer.

The NSG has been requested to send a team for carrying out necessary drill to diffuse the shell, he said.

The police added that the old and corroded shell has been covered with a "bomb blanket" to avert any accidental blast.

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BJP MP Yogi Adityanath today refuted claims that hus his outfit 'Hindu Yuva Vahini' will contest against the saffron party in few Assembly seats in the Uttar Pradesh, saying these reports are "fake".

"All these reports are fake. I am campaigning for my party," he told PTI.

The Gorakhpur MP was is one of the star campaigners for BJP and was at the dice along with party chief Amit Shah and other leaders while the release of the manifesto for state Assembly elections next month.

Earlier, Hindu Yuva Vahini's state president had said that they have fielded candidates on six seats spread over three districts in the eastern region of the state.

The seats he mentioned are Padrauna, Khadda, Kasya (all in Kushinagar), Paniyara (Gorakhpur) and Siswa and Pharenda (Maharajganj).

Sunil also said that the outfit has been working on Hindutva agenda and it is the best opportunity for them to field candidates to set things right.

However, there had been a strong demand in BJP, especially in the stronghold of Adityanath, to declare him as the chief ministerial candidate in the polls.

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Air strikes have killed 10 civilians including seven children in areas near a town held by the Islamic State group in north Syria, a monitor said.

The strikes came as regime forces had advanced to within seven kilometres (four miles) of the jihadist group's bastion of Al-Bab, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights yesterday said.

The Observatory said regime airstrikes killed a child in Tanif yesterday, while Turkish air raids left nine civilians dead including six children in Al-Uraima and Bezaa.

President Bashar al-Assad's fighters have advanced towards Al-Bab from the southwest, seizing three villages since late Friday, the Observatory said.

Turkish forces, meanwhile, have gathered to the north of the town, the Britain-based monitor said.

Al-Bab has come under heavy assault in recent weeks, with Turkish, Russian and Syrian warplanes carrying out strikes in or around the town.

Turkish forces regularly carry out air strikes in support of a ground operation they launched in Syria last August targeting both IS and Kurdish fighters.

Several this month have been joint operations with Russia.

Turkish officials say the utmost is done to avoid causing civilian casualties, and have denied claims that civilians have been killed in previous raids.

The Observatory has also reported that 10 civilians were killed on Friday in Turkish air strikes and shelling in the area.

Turkey's state-run Anadolu agency reported on Friday that the latest round of raids had killed 22 IS "terrorists".

IS is not included in a fragile nationwide ceasefire in force since December 30 that led to peace talks jointly organised by Turkey, Russia and Iran in Kazakhstan this week.

Ankara has backed rebels since the conflict began with the brutal repression of anti-government protests in March 2011.

Moscow and Tehran have supported the government.

The Observatory, which relies on a wide network of sources inside Syria for its information, says it determines whose planes carry out raids according to type, location, flight patterns and munitions used.

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US authorities wasted no time implementing Donald Trump's order halting Muslim arrivals, detaining travelers arriving at American airports within hours of the US president signing the tough new measures, media reports said today.

The New York Times reported that airport officials as early as last night began detaining travelers, some of whom already had been aboard their flights when Trump announced his executive order closing America's borders to refugees.

Trump's order suspends entry of all refugees to the United States for 120 days and indefinitely halts the admission of refugees from Syria.

It also bans entry into the United States from travelers from seven predominantly Muslim countries -- Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen -- for 90 days.

The order paved the way for what Trump has pledged will be "extreme vetting" of visa applicants' backgrounds -- with some exceptions made for members of "religious minorities," a caveat many see as a way to apply favorable treatment to Christians from majority Muslim states.

The move makes good on one of Trump's most controversial campaign promises, when he vowed to stem immigration from various Muslim countries which he insists pose a terror threat to the United States, and to subject future arrivals to "extreme vetting."



The Times said the detentions have been met with early legal challenges, as lawyers representing two Iraqi refugees being held at New York's John F Kennedy Airport filed a court appeal for their release, alleging that the two travelers were being unlawfully detained.

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Fresh from talks with US President Donald Trump, British Prime Minister Theresa May will meet Turkish leaders in Ankara today, hoping to expand ties and seal a new trading relationship before Britain leaves the EU.

On a one-day visit to the Turkish capital, her first since becoming premier, May will hold talks with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Prime Minister Binali Yildirim.

While some EU states have been wary of sending top officials to Turkey following the July 15 failed coup and ensuing crackdown, May will follow several senior British ministers who have visited Ankara in recent weeks.

And symbolically, her visit to Turkey is the last leg of a trip which took her to the White House as the first foreign leader to be hosted by Trump.

Turkey, which has sought to join the European Union since the 1960s, has long seen Britain as one of the most enthusiastic supporters of its troubled bid.

But following Britain's June vote to leave the bloc, both sides are now looking to bring a new dynamic to relations, with London seeking to firm up post-Brexit trade deals with non-EU states.

May's spokeswoman said increased security cooperation, especially on aviation, and a new trade relationship post- Brexit would top the agenda at the talks.

Following the failed coup, Turkey's relations with the EU have become strained, with Brussels sharply criticising the extent of the ensuing crackdown, and Ankara deploring Europe's failure to show solidarity.

The spokeswoman emphasised that there were no issues May would steer away from, including human rights and freedom of the press.

"The Prime Minister's approach is quite clear - she thinks it's important, and in the UK's national interest - to engage with Turkey on a range of issues - from defence and security cooperation to capitalising on trade opportunities," she said.

She added: "I don't think there are any issues that the prime minister is afraid to bring up."



Ahead of May's visit, Britain's Trade and Investment Minister Mark Price held a series of meetings with Turkish ministers in Ankara.

Bilateral trade between the two countries amounted to more than USD 16 billion in 2015, Turkish figures show, with Britain the second most important country for exports and 11th in terms of imports.

Three months after the Brexit vote, Foreign Minister Boris Johnson made a colourful visit to Turkey during which he said Britain was seeking a "jumbo free trade deal" with Ankara.

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British Prime Minister Theresa May today refused to condemn an order by US President Donald Trump suspending refugee arrivals, saying Washington was responsible for its own refugee policy.

"The United States is responsible for the United States' policy on refugees. The United Kingdom is responsible for the United Kingdom's policy on refugees," May said at a conference in Ankara, after being repeatedly pressed to give her opinion on Trump's executive order.

"And our policy on refugees is to have a number of voluntary schemes to bring Syrian refugees into the country, particularly those who are most vulnerable but also to provide significant financial contributions to support refugees in countries surrounding Syria," she added.

On the same day May visited Washington for her first White House meeting with Trump to bolster the London-Washington relationship, the new president ordered a suspension of refugee arrivals.

He also imposed tough controls on travellers from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

At a joint conference with Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim, May had initially declined to be drawn into directly giving any comment on Trump's order.

Instead she praised Turkey for its hospitality in hosting some three million refugees from Syria and also Iraq.

Yildirim however offered implicit condemnation of Trump's move, saying throwing up walls will not solve the world's refugee problems.

"We cannot solve this refugee problem by putting up walls," Yildirim said.

Trump's executive order specifically says no visas will be issued for 90 days to migrants or visitors from the seven Muslim-majority countries.

Yildirim insisted that with tens of millions of refugees worldwide, it was a problem which "could not be ignored" but had to be solved with greater cooperation between countries.

"We opened our doors, and if they come again, we would take them again," he said, adding: "Regional problems cannot be solved by sweeping them under the carpet."



The Turkish authorities say they are hosting some 2.7 million Syrian refugees who fled the country during the over six-year conflict and another 300,000 Iraqi refugees.

Yildirim added it would not be possible to make "assessments on hearsay" with regard to Trump's order.

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: Delegates from 46 countries, including the US, China, UK and Japan, have registered for Vyapar 2017, the sixth edition of Kerala business-to-business meet,to be held in Kochi from February 2.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will inaugurate the three day-meet, organised by the Kerala Department of Industries, at Bolgatty Palace and Island Resort, Kochi.

Vyapar 2017 provides a platform to the buyers for direct interactions and discussions with participating manufacturers and sellers from Kerala, a release said here today.

Minister for Industries and Commerce A.C. Moideen will preside over the inaugural ceremony.

"A total of 683 buyers have registered for participation. 160 buyers from foreign countries and 523 buyers from India have registered in the three-day event, which will open up new growth frontiers for Kerala's Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)," Moideen said.

"We expect more than 450 buyers to participate in the event," he said.

As part of the promotional campaign of Vyapar 2017 and to disseminate the details of the event among the foreign diplomatic community, a Foreign Diplomats Meet chaired by the Chief Minister was organised at Federation House, New Delhi in November last.

Promotional Meets on Vyapar 2017 were also organised in association with FICCI at Hyderabad, Kolkata and Puducherry as a prelude to this major event of the Department of Industries & Commerce.

"Around 7,000 business meetings are expected to happen during Vyapar 2017.The B2B meet will be a platform for SMEs to meet industry leaders and find prospective clients, increase the business volume and strengthen the state economy. It will also help them to explore potential markets abroad," P M Francis, Director, Industries and Commerce, said.

Sellers from various small scale industries including food processing, handlooms & textiles, rubber, coir products, Ayurveda & herbal, electrical & electronics as well as traditional industrial sectors have registered for the event.

The list also includes state-run enterprises.

Kerala Bureau of Industrial Promotion (K-BIP) is the nodal agency for this event, which is organised in association with the Directorate of Industries and Commerce, Directorate of Handlooms and Textiles, Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation, Kerala Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce Industry (FICCI) as the Trade & Industry Partner.

The event would conclude on February 4.

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China today raised objections over the presence of the Prime Minister of 'Tibetan government-in- exile' at a recent dinner hosted by former US envoy to India Richard Verma in New Delhi, saying it resolutely opposes any country's "interference" in its internal affairs by using Tibet issue as an excuse.

The dinner hosted by Verma on January 15 in honour of his visiting friend and Hollywood actor Richard Gere was reportedly also attended by the Prime Minister of the Tibetan government-in-exile, Lobsang Sangay.

"No country in the world recognises the so-called Tibetan government-in-exile," Chinese Foreign Ministry said in a written response to PTI over reports that the Prime Minister of Tibetan government-in-exile was present at the event.

"We are firmly against any country's official contact with it in any form, and resolutely opposed to any country's interference in China's internal affairs by using Tibet related issues as an excuse," the Foreign Ministry said.

The private gathering hosted by Verma days before Donald Trump took over as US President was made public by Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju who thanked the envoy for the dinner on Tweeter yesterday.

Photographs posted on his Twitter page showed the Prime Minister of the Tibetan government-in-exile and other US diplomats attending the dinner.

China routinely protests visits and meetings of Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama and his associates saying it constitutes interference in its internal affairs.

In October last year, China objected to Verma's visit to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh which Beijing claims as southern Tibet, saying any interference by Washington in the Sino-India boundary dispute will make it "more complicated" and "disturb" hard-won peace at the border.

Last month, China took strong exception to the Dalai Lama's meeting with President Pranab Mukherjee at the Rashtrapathi Bhavan during a children's summit.

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Congress, NCP workers and activists of Sambhaji Brigade and Nitesh Rane-led Swabhiman Sanghatana today staged protest against Marathi play "Hey Ram Nathuram" here, police said.

The protest was held outside the Annabhau Sathe auditorium in Satara Road area. However, the play was conducted amid tight security, a senior police official said.

Congress and NCP had earlier warned that they will not allow staging of the play claiming that Nathuram Godse, who had assassinated Mahatma Gandhi, was glorified in it.

"A wrong history is being portrayed through such a play," alleged Santosh Shinde, a leader of Sambhaji Brigade.

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After losing the coastal state to Bharatiya Janata Party in 2012 polls, the Congress party is now looking to revive its fortunes in Goa through upcoming state Legislative Assembly elections.

The party has fielded candidates on 38 out of the total 40 seats, while it has roped in the support of its own expelled leader Atanasio Monserratte in Panaji constituency and Independent legislator Rohan Khaunte in Porvorim.

Both the candidates are not contesting on Congress' official symbol.

"We want to give a clean government to Goa. People discarded Congress in the year 2012 with a hope of some changes. But BJP has proved them wrong. BJP-led government has been a indulging in U-turns on all the fronts," All India Congress Committee Secretary Girish Chodankar said.

Chodankar, a leader of Goan origin who is attached as AICC secretary to party vice president Rahul Gandhi, has been camping in his own state for last four months overseeing the party's campaign.

He said the Congress has consciously introduced a mix of new and old faces who are fielded from different constituencies.

"When we began the first challenge we took steps to reach to grass-root level. The party existed in all the constituencies but the only task was to revive the support," Chodankar said.

The Congress party also saw change in guard during last two years with former state chief minister Luizinho Faleiro taking over as party's Goa chief.

Faleiro is now contesting from his traditional Navelim constituency in South Goa.

Chodankar said that Congress manifesto for Goa polls has been prepared after taking inputs from all sections of people.

"We have included all the aspirations of the people. If we form the government, all the promises in the manifesto would be fulfilled," he said.

The Congress has assured to ban Casinos, get special status for the state, provide free five litres of petrol to the students, review all the investments done under Investment Promotion Board amongst other things.

The party which was infested with internal bickering till recently seems to be going united but has not provided any chief ministerial face during the campaign though former chief ministers--Luizinho Faleiro, Pratapsinh Rane and Digambar Kamat--- are contesting on its ticket.

In the run up to the polls, it was expected that Congress would have alliance with forces like Goa Forward and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP).

The prelude to the election was witness to series of meetings to cobble an alliance.

At the eleventh-hour, Congress refused to have pre-poll ties with any party but instead opted for seat sharing arrangements at a few places.
CPI National Secretary D Raja today termed as "unconvincing and unacceptable" the explanation given by the Tamil Nadu government and state police on the recent pro-Jallikattu protests turning violent, and sought a high-level judicial probe into police "excesses".

"How could the protests which had been peaceful turn violent suddenly? The explanation by the government and police (that anti-national and anti-social elements had infiltrated the protests) is unconvincing and unacceptable," he told PTI.

Raja, a Rajya Sabha member, asked what the intelligence agencies were doing if such elements had infiltrated the protests.

He demanded a high-level judicial probe into the alleged "police excesses" while dispersing the protesters from Marina Beach here on January 23, which was followed by a series of violent incidents.

The violence and police excesses should be condemned, he added.

The week-long pro-Jallikattu protests by students and youth had turned violent on January 23 when the police asked them to disperse.

Chief Minister O Panneerselvam had told the state Assembly that "anti-national, anti-social and extremist elements" had infiltrated the pro-Jallikattu protests, and that the police had only used "minimum force" against "rioters".

Various opposition parties, including DMK, have alleged that police indulged in excesses during their action to evict the protesters and demanded a fair probe.

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A spokesman for Czech President Milos Zeman today praised Donald Trump's anti-migrant steps, saying the new US president simply cared about the safety of Americans.

"US President Trump protects his country, he's concerned with the safety of his citizens. Exactly what EU elites do not do," Zeman's spokesman Jiri Ovcacek said in a tweet.

In office for a week, Trump on Friday signed an order to boost the vetting of potential immigrants and refugees, seeking to keep "radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America."



The move has sparked criticism among rights groups as well as at the United Nations which called on the US to continue its long tradition of welcoming refugees.

The pro-Russian Zeman, a 72-year-old veteran leftwinger and ex-Communist, who endorsed Trump before the election last year, has criticised immigration from Muslim countries.

He once called the wave of refugees "an organised invasion" and said Muslims were "impossible to integrate."



"The safety of Czech citizens is a priority. Now we have allies in the US," Ovcacek tweeted Saturday.

Migration is a prominent political issue in the Czech Republic, despite refugees largely avoiding the ex-Communist EU and NATO member state of 10.5 million people, heading instead to wealthier countries in western Europe.

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Top Democratic lawmakers have expressed outrage over US President Donald Trump's decision to sign an executive order on preventing radical Islamic terrorists from entering the country, which they said is un-American and would badly hit genuine people and refugees.

"I am outraged by President Trump's executive order banning immigrants and refugees from the United States on the basis of religion. This pronouncement violates constitutional principles and disregards religious tolerance - a cornerstone of American democracy," Congresswoman Barbara Lee said.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said this is one of the most backward and nasty executive orders that the President has issued.

"Tears are running down the cheeks of the Statue of Liberty tonight as a grand tradition of America, welcoming immigrants, that has existed since America was founded has been stomped upon," he said.

"Taking in immigrants and refugees is not only humanitarian but has also boosted our economy and created jobs decade after decade," Schumer said.

"On Holocaust Memorial Day, Trump restricted refugees from Muslim-majority countries. Make no mistake- this is a Muslim ban," said Senator Kamala Harris from California.

"We have opened our doors to those fleeing violence and oppression for decades, by presidents on both sides of the aisle. We can't turn our backs on the millions of refugees who are contributing to our country and our economy," she said.

Senator Chris Murphy alleged that the executive order that targets Muslims is "likely to get Americans killed," adding that with this Trump has now handed ISIS a path to rebirth.

"Trump's Muslim ban is a moral abomination. It is fundamentally un-American. And it is dangerous - it will give life back to the terrorist movement and eventually get Americans killed," Murphy said.

Senator Duck Durbin asked Republican lawmakers to reject this ban on Muslims.

"History will judge where America's leaders stood today," he said.

"Faced with the humanitarian crisis of our time, the United States cannot turn its back on children fleeing persecution, genocide, and terror. During the Holocaust we failed to fulfill to our duty to humanity. We cannot allow mindless fear to lead us into another regretful chapter in our history," he added.

"This is not what America is about. We stand strongly



against these hateful actions, and in solidarity with our Muslim and immigrant neighbours," said Stephanie Taylor, co-founder, Progressive Change Campaign Committee.

"Vilifying refugees will not make our nation stronger or more secure. Neither will imposing a religious ban on individuals from predominantly Muslim countries. As a country, we are better than this and should not accept the Trump administration's thinly-veiled intolerance as anything but Islamophobia," said Congressman Joe Crowley, chairman of the House Democratic Caucus.

"It's despicable that President Trump chose Holocaust Remembrance Day to issue yet another executive order that exploits fear of refugees and immigrants. This is wrong. I will continue to fight the President's extreme, knee jerk actions that divide our country," said Senator Mazie K Hirono.

Describing this as a watershed moment, Lee said people of conscience must unite in opposition to this un-American policy which weakens US leadership on the world stage and poses a direct threat to national security.

"Today's executive order from President Trump is more about extreme xenophobia than extreme vetting. This executive order is the equivalent of a "Keep Out" sign posted at America's borders," Senator Edward Markey said.
Actress Kalki Koechlin, who has teamed up with Pakistani director Sabiha Sumar for a documentary, believes filmmakers today are consciously coming up with films that carry a message to the society.

The documentary titled "Azmaish" will showcase the cultural aspects of both the countries.

The year 2016 saw a wide range of films like "Dangal", "Kahaani 2:Durga Rani Singh", "Pink", "Udta Punjab", "Aligarh" dealing with subjects like child sexual abuse, drug abuse to women emancipation and Kalki feels that filmmakers are consciously making such movies.

"Cinema is such a powerful platform and reaches out to a wide audience. And nowadays, I think people from the industry are consciously making movies that spread an important message to the society," Kalki told PTI.

The 33-year-old actress plans to promote "Azmaish" through film festivals.

"We are currently raising funds on Wishberry to complete the post production. We definitely want to take 'Azmaish' to film festivals and showcase the documentary."



When asked that what drew her to take up the project, she said, "I liked the fact that this was a project on India and Pakistan that didn't have to do with conflict. I did wonder why Sabiha approached me to be a part of this, but I am thrilled with the experience and am very grateful for It," she said.

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The EU's traditional power couple France and Germany expressed mounting alarm today at key decisions by US President Donald Trump in his first week in office, saying they raised many issues of concern.

French President Francois Hollande vowed a "firm" response to a growing list of pronouncements by the maverick tycoon, including his encouragement for Brexit and suspension of all refugee arrivals.

"We must conduct firm dialogue with the new American administration which has shown it has its own approach to the problems we all face," the French leader said after a meeting of southern EU countries in Lisbon, flanked by fellow leaders.

Another EU founder member, Luxembourg, also said Trump risks bolstering "hatred towards the West" by slapping tight new controls on travellers from seven Muslim countries including war-wracked Syria.

Hollande spoke out a day after Trump -- who has made clear he thinks other EU countries will leave the bloc -- called Britain's decision to leave the European Union a "wonderful thing".

"When he talks about Brexit being a model for other countries, I think we must respond," he said, adding that Trump's "protectionist" measures could "destabilise economies not just in Europe but the economies of the main countries of the world".

Trump has announced a series of controversial decisions, making good on what some thought may have been electioneering campaign pledges, on an almost daily basis since taking office on January 20.

British Prime Minister Theresa May, whose country voted to leave the EU last June plunging the bloc into an unprecedented crisis, became the first world leader to meet Trump in Washington yesterday.

Keen to forge a post-Brexit trade deal with the United States and other countries, she refused to condemn Trump's refugee suspension today.

"The United States is responsible for the United States' policy on refugees" she said when repeatedly pressed on the issue at a press conference in Turkey.

But other EU countries have different priorities, and are making their concerns clear.

Luxembourg Foreign Minister Jean Asselborn condemned the tougher visa measures slapped on seven Muslim states: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

"The decision is .. Bad for Europe, because it's going to strengthen even further the mistrust and hatred towards the West in the heart of the Muslim world," he told the Sunday edition of German daily Tagesspiegel, excerpts of which were released a day in advance.

The first concrete cases emerged today of US-bound travellers being turned back due to the new visa arrangements.

In Cairo an Iraqi family bound for New York was stopped, while some who were already in the air when Trump signed the executive order were detained on arrival, the New York Times reported.

The French and German foreign ministers meanwhile voiced "concern" about Trump at talks in Paris.

"Welcoming refugees who are fleeing war is part of our duty," France's Jean-Marc Ayrault said following a meeting with his new German counterpart, Sigmar Gabriel.

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With the arrest of three persons, Delhi Police has unearthed a fake currency racket.

The three accused, Azad, Manoj and Sunil, have been arrested here with Rs 18 lakh in the form of counterfeit Rs 2000 notes, said a senior police officer.

Azad belongs to Delhi while the other two accused are from Haryana, he added.

Further details are awaited.

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Three women workers and a private secretary, appointed personally by former Governor V Shanmuganathan in Meghalaya, were today sacked after their services were found to be in variance with norms, Raj Bhavan officials said here.

The four - a cook from Chennai, a private secretary from Lucknow, his personal assistant from Assam and local public relation officer - were sacked, Raj Bhavan Secretary H Shangpliang told PTI.

He said the contractual services of these people appointed by Shanmuganathan are co-terminus with the term of the governor.

Shanmuganathan was forced to resign on January 26 after a section of Raj Bhavan staff shot a complaint to Prime Minister Narendra Modi complaining about the former's role in comprising with the dignity of the highest office in the state by turning it into a "young ladies' club".

During his tenure from May last year, Shanmuganathan had appointed three women and a person from Lucknow, as recommended by his close political aide, a Raj Bhavan employee told PTI on condition of anonymity.

The employee alleged that interviews for these job seekers were also conducted by the Governor himself and at odd hours.

Women activists in the state have now demanded an inquiry into the whole episode resulting in the Raj Bhavan scandal.

"We now need a speedy and decisive inquiry to be initiated which should lead to prosecution," said Angela Rangad, Convenor of Thma u Rangli (TUR) a progressive people's group in the state.

"Now that he is not the Governor anymore, Article 361 is not operational, and we do not need prior sanction from the President (for his prosecution)," she said.

"It should not be that now he tendered his resignation and that is the end of it. Only this (prosecution) will send out the right message that nobody in any high office can get away with abusing their power," she added.

President Pranab Mukherjee had yesterday accepted the resignation of former Governor V Shanmuganathan and gave charge of the office to Assam Governor B Purohit.

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French investigators have searched the offices of a magazine as part of a widening inquiry into whether presidential candidate Francois Fillon's wife was paid for allegedly fictitious jobs, sources told AFP today.

The raid late Thursday at La Revue des Deux Mondes follows the launch of the investigation into Penelope Fillon's role at the literary monthly, owned by a billionaire friend of her husband, as well as in the French parliament, where she was paid USD 534,000 from public funds over more than a decade.

The satirical weekly Le Canard Enchaine, which broke the story, said the Welsh-born Penelope Fillon had done nothing to earn her salary at the legislature, since it had been unable to find anyone who remembered her working there.

The newspaper also alleged that in 2012 and 2013, Penelope Fillon was paid 5,000 euros a month at La Revue des Deux Mondes, owned by Marc Ladreit de Lacharriere, 76.

In a separate development, a French watchdog for political ethics said today it had handed investigators Fillon's declaration of wealth and business interests.

The High Authority for Transparency in Public Office (HATVP) confirmed a report on the radio station Europe 1, saying it handed over the information in response to a judicial request.

The HATVP was set up in 2013 with the aim of improving transparency and accountability in French politics after a string of high-profile scandals. It is the repository of legislators' declarations and issues rulings on conflicts of interest.

Selected in a primary election on November to be the presidential candidate of the conservative Republicans party, Fillon has suffered a slump in popularity ratings following the revelations.

An opinion poll yesterday found that 38 per cent of voters across the political spectrum had a "good opinion" of the former prime minister.

That was a drop of four points from a poll on January 8, and 16 points less than in early November, according to the Odoxa survey of 1,012 people.

Fillon said in a TV interview Thursday that he was "disgusted" at the allegations that his wife had done nothing to earn half a million euros from public funds.

He said his wife had "always worked for me" during his four-decade political career and listed tasks she had carried out, including "editing my speeches" and representing him at events.

La Revue des Deux Mondes ("The Review of the Two Worlds") traces its roots to the French literary scene of the early 19th century.

Contributors have included giants such as George Sand, Alexandre Dumas and Alphonse de Musset.

The magazine today is focussed on politics and literary and, coincidentally, devoted its front page this month to Fillon.

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Gambia's new President Adama Barrow promised an overhaul of the country's feared security forces today as he works to rebuild a country that lived under authoritarian rule for more than 22 years.

In his first conference since taking office, Barrow told reporters he also plans to rename the National Intelligence Agency, which was tasked with interrogating and sometimes torturing detainees.

"It's an institution that has to continue, but the name will change," Barrow said.

Barrow returned to Gambia on Thursday in a dramatic homecoming where he was met by hundreds of thousands. He had taken the oath of office in neighboring Senegal, shortly before longtime dictator Yahya Jammeh was forced into exile.

Some of Jammeh's top associates fled with him to Equatorial Guinea, another autocratic state led by Africa's longest-serving ruler. Other security forces remain in the country and need to be retrained, ideally by partners, Barrow said.

"In the army we need technical aid, and we need countries that are willing to help us in the security realm," he said.

Barrow is the first new president in Gambia in more than 22 years. His arrival is seen as a rebirth for the tiny country where political opponents, journalists and gays and lesbians were among those jailed and sometimes killed.

The United Nations has urged Gambia's new government to release political prisoners as soon as possible.

Senegalese authorities announced Friday that one of the leading suspects in the abuses of Jammeh's regime had been arrested.

Borra Colley, who had been director of the notorious Mile Two prison, was arrested Wednesday while trying to make his way to Guinea-Bissau.

He also had led the Jungulars, Jammeh's personal military of some 50 officers who reportedly went into exile with him last weekend. It was not immediately known why Colley had not joined them.

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Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today lashed out at the protesters seeking relocation of an Indo-Bangla joint power plant project in Rampal, saying the agitators have no idea how far the site is from Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest.

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the 57th convention Institute of Engineers, Bangladesh in Chittagong, Hasina asserted that the plant will not harm the mangrove forest.

The protesters were "shedding tears" for the Royal Bengal Tigers, ignoring the "benefit to the people", she was quoted as saying by the bdnews24.Com.

"Visit Rampal and see how far it is from the Sundarbans. I would advise the protesters to march from Rampal to Sundarbans then they will get an idea," she said.

The 1320 MW coal-based power plant in Rampal is a joint India-Bangladesh project currently under commissioning. The proximity of the project to the world's largest mangrove forest prompted protests from several leftist organisations.

Environmentalists say the proposed plant would be a significant threat to the Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage site. But the government maintains that it would not harm the Sundarbans, partly owned by India.

On Thursday, police in Dhaka lobbed tear-gas shells, fired rubber-bullets and used water-cannons to disperse protesters observing a half-day shutdown against government plans to build the power plant project.

Main opposition party outside parliament Bangladesh Nationalist party (BNP) and several leftist organisations and environmental groups had extended their support to the protesters who staged street marches in Dhaka on Thursday.

"I would have been the first person to oppose the power plant had there been a slightest chance of damage of the Sundarbans," Hasina had said earlier.

The National Committee in October 2016 sent a letter to the Indian premier through the Indian High Commission in Dhaka seeking his intervention to scrap the project.

Bangladesh-India Friendship Power Company (Pvt.) Limited (BIFPCL), a joint venture enterprise, inked the deal with state-run Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), which was selected under an open international tender for constructing the "ultra-super critical thermal plant" at Rampal.

India's Exim Bank finances the USD 1.49 billion project, scheduled to launch generating power in 2019.

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A PIL has been filed before the Madras High Court bench here, seeking a judicial inquiry into the alleged excesses by the police while dispersing pro-jallikattu protesters at Alanganallur in the district on January 23.

Petitioner P Kanagavel also pleaded to the court for direction to the Tamil Nadu government to provide treatment to those injured in the police action.

He alleged that several protesters were detained illegally by the police.

On January 23, the police had used force to disperse the pro-jallikattu protesters at Alanganallur, famous for the bull-taming sport.

A plea for a CBI probe had been made in the Madras High Court's principal seat, also alleging police excesses against the pro-jallikattu protesters in Chennai.

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In Mosul, where Iraqi forces are at the forefront of the war against jihadists, soldiers are unhappy that security concerns could keep them from visiting relatives in the United States.

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order restricting the entry of citizens of seven Muslim-majority countries including Iraq in what he described as an effort to make America safe from "radical Islamic terrorists".

The travel restrictions, which come on the heels of repeated assertions by Trump that the US should have stolen Iraq's oil before leaving in 2011, risk alienating the citizens and government of a country fighting against militants the president has cast as a major threat to America.

"It's not fair, it's not right. I should have the right to visit my family," said Assem Ayad, a 23-year-old soldier deployed in Mosul who has three cousins living in Texas.

"This decision was made because there are terrorist groups in Iraq. But there are also innocent people" including those who are fighting against jihadists, said Ayad, who carried an American-made assault rifle.

Haider Hassan, 45, another soldier in Mosul, said his cousin lives in the United States and that he had wanted to visit.

Referring to US military personnel deployed in Iraq, Hassan asked: "Why would they ban us from coming to America when they are in my country and have bases here?"



The Islamic State group overran large areas north and west of Baghdad in 2014, sweeping aside military and police units that were ill-prepared to combat the offensive.

But Iraqi forces backed by US-led air support, training and other assistance have since regained much of the territory they lost, and are now three months into a massive operation to retake Mosul, the country's last city in which IS still holds significant ground.

Hamza Kadhim, 34, noted that he and other Iraqi soldiers are part of the battle against jihadists, and also emphasised that the actions of extremists do not reflect Islam as a whole.

"On the day of his inauguration, Trump said he would fight Islamic terrorists. As Iraqi soldiers here to defend our country and fight terrorists, we tell him: Islam is not terrorism. Islam is a religion of love and brotherhood."



"We don't send terrorists to foreign countries... But we have had people coming to Iraq from foreign countries to kill, rape and rob. And we will keep fighting them until the last drop of our blood," he said, referring to IS militants.

The travel restrictions follow repeated statements by Trump that the US should have "kept the oil" in Iraq, remarks that have drawn criticism from Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi.

"Of course, the oil of Iraq is for Iraqis, and any remark to the contrary is unacceptable," Abadi told a conference in Baghdad.

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Iranian President Hassan Rouhani criticised his US counterpart Donald Trump today, saying now was "not the time to build walls between nations".

"They have forgotten that the Berlin Wall collapsed many years ago. Even if there are walls between nations, they must be removed," Rouhani said at a tourism convention in Tehran.

His remarks came after Trump ordered construction of a wall along the US-Mexico border and imposed tough new controls on travellers from seven Muslim countries, among them Iran.

Rouhani did not comment directly on the visa ban, but said Iran had "opened its doors" to foreign tourists since the signing of a nuclear agreement with world powers in 2015.

With more than a million Iranians living in the United States, many families are deeply concerned about the implications of Trump's visa ban, which also affects citizens from Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

On Thursday, one of Iran's most popular actresses said she would boycott next month's Academy Awards in protest at the ban.

"Trump's visa ban for Iranians is racist. Whether this will include a cultural event or not, I won't attend the #AcademyAwards 2017," tweeted Taraneh Alidoosti, who stars in the Oscar-nominated "The Salesman".

No visas will be issued for migrants or visitors from the seven countries for at least 90 days, a restriction which can be extended if the countries in question do not provide extensive information on individuals seeking to enter the United States.

Quizzed on the street, many Iranians said they were baffled by the move.

"Americans themselves are mostly immigrants. To pick out a few countries and call them terrorist is not logical," said Mohsen Najari, a 33-year-old resident of the Iranian capital.

Tehran and Washington have not had diplomatic ties since students stormed the US embassy in 1980 following an Islamic revolution that toppled the US-backed shah.

"It's got nothing to do with terrorism. Iran and the US just don't have good ties. The US has good relations with Saudi Arabia so it doesn't matter how many terrorists come from Saudi Arabia," said Sima, a 27-year-old.

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An Iraqi family was barred from flying from Cairo to New York today after US President Donald Trump signed an order restricting arrivals from seven Muslim countries, airport officials said.

The husband, wife and two children, who had American visas and reserved seats on an EgyptAir flight, were informed that they could not board because of the new regulation, the officials said.

Trump yesterday signed a sweeping executive order to suspend refugee arrivals and impose tough controls on travellers from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

EgyptAir representatives did not immediately respond to phone calls, and the airline's website did not provide updated travel advice for the United States.

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu took to Twitter today to hail new US President Donald Trump's decision to build a wall on the border with Mexico.

On Wednesday, Trump signed an executive order telling officials to begin to "plan, design and construct a physical wall" along the 3,200-kilometre US-Mexico border, making good on a campaign pledge.

In an interview with American channel Fox on Thursday Trump justified his decision, citing Israel which, he said, had managed to "stop 99.9 per cent" of illegal immigration by constructing a wall.

He was referring to the more than 240-kilometre barrier Israel completed in 2014 along its border with Egypt, a route previously taken by many African illegal immigrants and traffickers.

"President Trump is right. I built a wall along Israel's southern border. It stopped all illegal immigration. Great success. Great idea," Netanyahu tweeted in English, adding the Israeli and American flags.

Netanyahu, who heads one of the most right-wing governments in the history of the Jewish state, has not hidden his admiration for the new US president.

The Israeli premier's most nationalist allies see in Trump's administration the chance to continue building Jewish settlements in occupied east Jerusalem and the West Bank.

Israel announced a major settlement expansion in the days after Trump's January 20 inauguration.

On Sunday, the city planning committee approved building permits for 566 settler homes in east Jerusalem.

Two days later, the defence ministry announced plans for 2,500 settler homes in the occupied West Bank.

And on Thursday, Israeli officials gave final approval to 153 east Jerusalem settler homes.

The announcements have deeply concerned those seeking to salvage a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

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While political families like those of 'Alemaos', 'Monserrattes' and 'Ranes' have become household names in Goa, another clan which has thrown its hat into the poll ring ahead of the Goa Assembly elections this time, are the Kavlekars, wherein both husband and wife are contesting on the Congress ticket.

Sitting Goa legislator Chandrakant Kavlekar and his wife Savitri are contesting on Congress ticket from Quepem and Sanguem constituency respectively, making them the latest entry in 'family raj' politics.

The current election already has father-son duo Pratapsinh-Vishwajit Rane, couple Atanasio-Jeniffer Monserratte and brothers Churchill-Joaquim Alemao contesting from different constituencies.

While Congress candidates Pratapsinh is contesting from his traditional Poriem constituency, his son who is a former state minister--Vishwajit--is in the fray from Valpoi.

Controversial former minister Atanasio is contesting from Panaji constituency, (a bastion of BJP, formerly represented by Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar) while his wife Jeniffer is contesting from neighbouring Taleigao constituency, which is currently represented by her in the State Assembly.

Atanasio who shifted from his St Cruz constituency to Panaji for this election, is contesting on United Goans Party ticket with the support of Congress, while Jeniffer is a Congress candidate.

Alemao brothers, both former State ministers, whose political career spans for almost two decades before losing in the 2012 polls are trying to revive their careers this time.

While Churchill is contesting from Benaulim constituency in South Goa on NCP ticket, Joaquim has rebelled against Congress party after being denied candidature from Cuncolim constituency. He is contesting as an Independent.

The latest entrants, Kavlekars have chosen constituencies which are dominated by Scheduled Tribe population.

Chandrakant is representing Quepem on Congress ticket and Savitri is trying her luck from Sanguem constituency which is a bastion of BJP.

"Savitri is contesting because she is popular amongst the voters in her constituency. She has been in active politics along with me and has worked for the people in the constituency," Chandrakant said denying talks that she was given a ticket only because she was his wife.

"There was proper scrutiny process by Congress party which was followed before she was selected for Sanguem constituency," he said.

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Kerala Governor P Sathasivam today lamented the "unending conflict" between lawyers and mediapersons in the state and urged the legal fraternity to come forward to resolve the issue.

Inaugurating the Kerala Chapter conference of the Indian Association of Lawyers here, Sathasivan, a former Chief Justice of Supreme Court, also said judiciary and journalism were society's two most important "watchdogs of democracy" and both law and media were professions of public service.

"It is very sad that the most literate state faces an unending conflict between Lawyers and mediapersons, both of whom constitute two pillars of democracy," he said.

"As supporters and protectors of democracy, the legal fraternity should come forward to resolve the issue, which I understand, has worsened to the level of lawyers refusing to argue cases pertaining to media companies," he said.

His comments come against the backdrop of some high court lawyers clashing with journalists in Kochi on July 14 on reports about the arrest of a government pleader who allegedly tried to molest a woman.

This incident resulted in a stand-off between the media and lawyers in courts in Kerala with the former still facing problems in covering court proceedings.

Holding that the relationship between law and journalism should be "cooperative, not contradictory" and "complementary, not conflicting", he said, "The lawyer is the sworn officer of the court unto society's welfare and the journalist is the unsworn officer of society unto the common good."



Pointing that though "reasonable restrictions" in the courts can be understood, a total non-cooperation and antagonism were not in the spirit of the democratic values, he said.

He also noted that it was surprising that lawyers, who help litigants to reach consensus through Alternative Dispute Resolutions and other mediation, were unable to take a lead in settling theirissue with journalists.

"Let us not forget that society is watching us," Sathasivam added.

He also noted that a lawyer had to be vigilant, especially in maintaining credibility.

"As a person who was fortunate to lead the Indian Judiciary, I am worried about the reports about unqualified lawyers in our State and the nation.

"We have been hearing reports quoting official sources that thousands of lawyers in Kerala are yet to confirm their educational credentials," he said.

As even an allegation in this regard was very depressing, it was high time lawyers' associations came forward to clear the misunderstanding caused in society, the Governor added.

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Information and Broadcasting Minister M Venkaiah Naidu today termed as "highly objectionable" the manhandling of filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali and said one cannot take law into own hands.

"Manhandling of Sanjay Leela Bhansali and disturbing the shooting of film is highly objectionable.

"No one can take law into own hands. Spoke to Vasundhara Raje ji and asked her to take necessary action," he said.

Bhansali had to cancel the shooting of his film "Padmavati" in Jaipur after the set was vandalised by a Rajput group and he was assaulted.

The assault triggered outrage in the film industry and Bhansali termed it as "uncalled for" and extremely damaging to the image of the beautiful city.

Members of the Rajput community group stopped the shooting by damaging the set at Jaigarh Fort, alleging that the director was "distorting facts" in the movie which is about Alauddin Khilji's obsession with Rani Padmavati.

Refuting claims of the fringe group that the film will feature an intimate scene between Alauddin Khiji, played by Ranveer Singh, and Rani Padmavati (Deepika Padukone), Bhansali said there is no such sequence.

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Cuba's cigars may be more famous, but Nicaragua has its own growing reputation as a tobacco producer, boasting a sector that is a big exporter and employer, thanks mainly to US demand.

Esteli, a region in the north of the Central American country, has the dark soil and tropical climate propitious for growing the big leafy tobacco plants.

And there's a lot of Cuban know-how on the farms.

Many of the firms here are owned by families that emigrated from Cuba, says Juan Ignacio Martinez, the head of the Nicaraguan Chamber of Tobacco Growers.

In Nicaragua, "the soil is of volcanic origin and well suited for any sort of crop," he says, "especially tobacco leaf, which grows big here, with a lot of flavor and a great aroma that smokers like."



Some 27 big companies owned by US, European and Nicaraguan capital and 60 smaller local ones operate in the area, growing, curing, fermenting and producing cigars.

The activity has attracted workers from across the country, among them Isabel Ramos, whose family left the impoverished village of Murra to work in Esteli 17 years ago.

Now, she, her parents and three brothers bring in USD 900 per month to support the family.

"If it weren't for the tobacco, I would be working as a cook" for a paltry USD 50 a month, the 31-year-old mother of two teenagers said as she counted out dried shells used to make cigars for the US company Oliva Cigars.

"Tons of people" fleeing poverty have come to find employment in Esteli, she said.

Around 35,000 are estimated to work for the tobacco industry in northern Nicaragua, including many entire families. The deleterious health effects of smoking are not a consideration for people who otherwise would have not enough to eat.

The influx has driven a boom in construction, shops and tourism, turning Esteli into one of Nicaragua's most important economic hubs.

"Here we have a chance to work and get enough money to build a house," says Sergio Gadea, 25, who arrived a year ago with his 16-year-old wife.

Naksara Ochoa, 24, says eight members of her family work in the industry, making cigars in a factory while reggae music plays over employees too busy to raise their eyes.

Yasmina Cruz, 47, says her family is there to "get enough money to make a home." She has been working here with her husband for the past 18 years.

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Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik informed Prime Minister Narendra Modi today that Odisha government has rejected the Centre's negotiation committee on Mahanadi river water dispute with Chhattisgarh.

Patnaik in his letter, however, said he was open to attending a meeting at the prime minister's level as a last chance to settle the river water dispute through dialogue.

"My government rejects the Negotiation Committee and request your good self to instruct the Central Government (Ministry of WR, RD &GR) to withdraw the Office Memorandum dated January 19, 2017 constituting the committee and initiate the constitution of Tribunal as the water dispute raised in the statutory complaint of my government dated November 19, 2016 cannot be resolved by negotiation," Patnaik wrote.

Pending formation of the tribunal, he requested the prime minister that Chhattisgarh be immediately directed to stop works of the ongoing project on Mahanadi basin.

"However, as a last and final chance to settle the dispute by negotiation, I am open to attend a meeting at your level, if the meeting of the chief ministers of the riparian states is called immediately," Patnaik mentioned in the letter to the prime minister.

Noting that the negotiation committee would only delay the setting up of the tribunal as demanded by Odisha, Patnaik said the state would allow Chhattisgarh to complete the construction of the disputed projects.

On Odisha's rejection of the negotiation committee, Patnaik said, "The committee is not in accordance with the provisions of Sec 4(1) of the Inter-State Rover Water Dispute Act of 1956 and its composition is arbitrary."



The provisions of the Act of 1965 put responsibility on the central government to negotiate after receiving complaints and in this regard the principle of federal relations mandated that the constitutional functionaries namely the prime minister or Union minister for water resources conduct negotiations with the chief ministers of the riparian states rather than appointing a committee headed by an officer of the subordinate office namely Central Water Commission, he said.

"In fact, recognising this constitutional position, Uma Bharati, Union Minister of Water Resources had called a meeting of the chief ministers of the riparian states on September 17, 2016 at New Delhi. However, Bharati could not successfully mediate, particularly by failing to direct the state of Chhattisgarh from going ahead with construction of ongoing disputed projects in the Mahanadi basin," Patnaik's letter said.

(REOPENS CAL7)



Patnaik said the terms of reference of the committee



indicate that it is not intended to negotiate on the water dispute raised by Odisha govenrment but is designed to record its views of findings.

"While section 4(1) of the Act of 1956 mandates the central govenrment to negotiate by mediation, it does not empower the central government to record its findings on the water dispute, such as assessment of yield which may cause prejudice to the claims of the riprarian states before the tribunal is constituted," he claimed.

Stressing that the negotiation should be between constitutional functionaries and if any nomination of official is permissible, the chief secretary or principal secretary to the government in water resources department should be the nominee, Patnaik said.

The choice belongs to the state and not the central government, he said, adding that the nomination of engineer-in-chief of WRD of Odisha by the office memorandum dated January 19, 2017 as the member of the committee is not appropriate.

Besides, the member of CWC who has been nominated as the chairman of the committee, which comprises six nominees of the central government agencies and one member each from other non-contesting basin states of Jharkhand, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh in all covering less than 0.5 per cent of the total catchment of the inter-state Mahanadi basin.

"The outcome from such committee with represntatives from states who have no real stakes will lack focus and unnecessarily delay the whole process," Patnaik said.
Hitting out at Shiv Sena which snapped ties with BJP for the local body polls, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis today said his party had no qualms about fighting on lesser number of seats in the BMC elections, but was firm on transparency in the Sena-controlled civic body.

"Like them (the Sena) I will not say that 25 years have been wasted with the alliance. I will only say that we learnt a lesson that we caused a loss to Mumbai all this while.

"I had told all BJP leaders who were negotiating that we should be willing to fight for a lesser number of seats (in BMC) but we will not compromise in having transparency and accountability in Sena's style of functioning," he said.

Fadnavis was addressing a gathering of BJP workers here, as part of 'Vijay Sankalp Melava' (Resolve for Victory Rally), the same venue where Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray had on January 26 declared that his party will go it alone in the local body polls.

Holding Sena responsible for the break-up of the alliance in the run up to the 2014 Assembly polls, Fadnavis claimed the party was adamant on not contesting a seat less than 191 (out of 288 seats).

"But I thank my stars today that the alliance did not happen (before the polls). Had it happened, I would not have been the Chief Minister today. We could realise our strength only because we fought alone," he said.

Questioning Sena's criticism of BJP when it sought transparency in the BMC controlled by the Thackeray-led party, Fadnavis asked, "Did I say something wrong? Why was I chided? People had voted us to power only on the issue of transparency. Why was this agenda not acceptable to you."



Who should be held responsible for slums in Mumbai that are deprived of water and electricity connections, he asked, and alleged, "There is no scheme to treat waste water. And due to BMC's inefficiency, the city has deteriorated environmentally."



On the contrary, the BJP government during its two years in power has made the city equipped with CCTV cameras, Wi-Fi connections and large amount work on the Metro has been done, Fadnavis claimed.

"We conceived the idea of elevated corridors to ease the congestion of trains and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region is being developed. We are integrating all modes of transport and looking at a single ticket issuing system.

"A person, at any point in the city should find a public mode of transport within 500 metres of his standing place," he said.

Terming Sena's stand on the coastal road project a



"hypocrisy", Fadnavis alleged on one hand the party said it will be built by BMC and on the other, it was discreetly telling farmers to oppose the project as it would impact their livelihood.

"Similar hypocrisy was shown during Metro-4 project. People were told that we will displace Marathi people," he alleged.

Referring to Sena's poster campaigns, Fadnavis said the party may say "they have done it", but the real satisfaction will be in people saying "yes you have done it".

Fadnavis said his government initiated the BDD chawl redevelopment project, where people have been promised much bigger houses than that they are living in now.

"You talk of Chhatrapati Shivaji's Hindutva ideology. But Chhatrapati Shivaji had the same respect for other religions as he had for Hindutva. If you do not believe in what he said, you have no right to take his name," he said.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray had on January 26 said his party will contest the upcoming elections to municipal corporations and zilla parishads on its own.

While snapping ties with his ally, Thackeray had said that his party had wasted 25-years due to alliance with BJP.
Pakistan has expressed hope that it could soon host the SAARC summit which was postponed after India boycotted it, with Prime Minister's advisor on foreign policy Sartaj Aziz alleging that New Delhi "impeded" the grouping's process.

Aziz said this during a meeting with outgoing South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Secretary General Arjun Bahadur Thapa who was on a visit to Pakistan yesterday.

Pakistan was looking forward to welcoming SAARC leaders for the 19th Summit in November but it was postponed when "India impeded the SAARC process and violated the spirit of the SAARC Charter", Foreign Office (FO) said in a statement.

"Pakistan remains committed to hosting the 19th SAARC Summit at Islamabad at the earliest so that the objectives of regional cooperation under the SAARC umbrella can be pursued more vigorously," FO quoted Aziz saying in the meeting.

He also reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to regional cooperation under the umbrella of SAARC for promoting welfare of the people of South Asia, improving their quality of life, economic progress, social uplift and cultural cooperation.

Aziz said that due to several impediments and challenges, SAARC has been unable to fulfill the vision that was laid out for it by its founding members.

Aziz said he believed that the SAARC Secretariat could play an important role as catalyst to bring all the member states together and ensure timely and effective implementation of programme and activities that would benefit the region.

Thapa emphasised the need to overcome the difficulties the organisation faced and expressed hope that the 19th SAARC Summit would be held in Islamabad as soon as possible.

Thapa, who paid a farewell call on Aziz, also held a meeting with Foreign Secretary Aizaz Ahmed Chaudhry, who appreciated Thapa's contributions to the SAARC process and reiterated Pakistan's commitment to the SAARC objectives.

Chaudhry emphasised that internal and bilateral problems of member states must not be allowed to affect the organisation and that 19th SAARC Summit should be held as soon as possible to put the whole SAARC process back on track.

On behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Syed Zulfiqar Gardezi, Additional Secretary (Asia Pacific) hosted a lunch for the Secretary General, which was attended by Amjad Hussian Sial, Secretary General-elect of the SAARC.

Thapa who hails from Nepal, is the 12th Secretary General of SAARC. He will complete his tenure on February 28 after which Amjad Hussain Sial, former Special Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan is to take charge as the next Secretary General of SAARC.

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Preparations for 'Momentum Jharkhand Global Investors' Summit (GIS), to be organized at Khel Gaon on February 16-17, is in full swing, a press release said here today.

Many high profile visitors from industry from India and abroad are expected to attend the summit and address the participants, it said, adding delegations from many countries are also expected to grace the occasion.

To assist the visitors attending the summit in a seamless manner, the state government has planned to provide a liaison officer along with a security officer, giving them a vehicle to take the visitors to the summit and help them reach the place where arrangements have been made for their stay, the release said.

Workshops are being conducted on equipping the liaison officers with the processes as well as on policies and initiatives being taken under 'Ease of Doing Business'. A snapshot of the initiatives and policies has been provided to the liaison officers.

One such training-cum sensitisation workshop is organised for designated liaison officers from Industries, Mines and Geology Department with the department Director K Ravi Kumar emphasizing on prospective role of liaison officers during the preparation of GIS.

With every detail being discussed in length pertaining to the summit which may be helpful in creating atmosphere conducive to investment in Jharkhand, Kumar also elaborated about the responsibilities of liaison officers towards the logistic arrangement during GIS.

Mukesh Kumar, the State Project Director, Sarv Shiksha Abhiyan-cum-OSD, Department of Industries, Mines & Geology, said that liaison officers would be instrumental in projecting the state's image as first point of contact.

"Since it is the first time that the summit is being organised in the state, we all should take pride in supporting the event and put out best to project the state's efforts in right perspective," he said, adding liaison officer to update their knowledge towards investment initiatives undertaken by the Jharkhand government.

About 150 officers from the department of Industry, Mines and Geology participated in the workshop.

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Raising the pitch for lifting the ban on annual buffalo race "Kambala" in Karnataka, thousands of people today staged a massive rally in Dakshina Kannada district here in support of the traditional sport, even as protests on the issue intensified.

Amid tight security, Kambala supporters marched in a nearly four-km long procession from Swaraj Maidan with 200 bullocks and ended their protest against the ban at Kadalakere Nisargadhama Kambala Track.

The protesters holding placards and shouting slogans demanded an ordinance, as was done in the case of Jallikattu (bull taming sport) in Tamil Nadu, to permit holding of the folk sport which is part of the tradition of the coastal Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts.

Kambala was part of agriculture and an 800-year-old tradition which was is indivisible component of our lives, the supporters said, emphasising that they treated the buffaloes as their own children and no violence was involved unlike in Jallikattu, where deaths and injuries to many occur.

The protest was called by various committees associated with the organisation of the sport, including the District Kambala Samiti, Sampradaya Kambala Samiti, Kambala Academy and Moodbidri Koti-Chennaya Jodukare Kambala Samiti.

A symbolic Kambala was planned earlier as part of the protest, but was given up after persuasion by district authorities against violating the law. The matter is before the Karnataka High Court at present and it will hear the case on January 31.

The annual sport, held from November to March, involves a pair of buffaloes tied to the plough and anchored by one person. They are made to run in parallel muddy tracks in a competition in which the fastest team wins.

Kambala is believed to be held to propitiate the Gods for a good harvest, besides being a recreational sport for farmers.

Meanwhile, a PETA statement said agitators in Karnataka have taken a leaf out of the pro-Jallikattu protesters' book and begun to falsely label PETA India as "foreign" and were now calling for banning the organisation.

Poorva Joshipura, PETA India CEO, said the PETA India was



a law abiding organisation which has spent the last 17 years advocating 'ahimsa' (non violence), promoting vegetarian foods and clothing, facilitating free veterinary care for working animals whose owners cannot afford it, among other life saving activities.

"Calling for a ban on PETA India would also be akin to calling for a ban on a child protection organisation which saves children from illegal trafficking. We should all be concerned that such an action is being called for," she said.

After the massive protests in Chennai gained success with the revocation of ban on 'Jallikattu', leaders across political parties have supported a similar action to facilitate Kambala.

A division bench of the Karnataka High Court, headed by Chief Justice S K Mukherjee, in an interim order in November 2016, had stayed holding of Kambala on a petition by PETA challenging it in view of orders passed by the Supreme Court on Jallikattu.

Kambala committees have filed an interim application, seeking vacation of the stay. The ban has sparked a debate on whether the event amounts to cruelty to animals or is just a simple rural sport.

Kambala in its traditional form was non-competitive, but over the years, it has become an organised sport.

Animal rights activists claim that the buffaloes run in the race due to fear of being beaten, which the organisers dismiss, saying no violence is involved and that modifications had been made to ensure that it is animal friendly.

Facing growing demand for holding Kambala after the success of the Jallikattu stir in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has said an ordinance could be brought in, if necessary, to allow the event after seeking legal opinion.

He had also asked the Centre to take a favourable stand on Kambala as it did on Jallikattu, where both Tamil Nadu and Central governments, after facing public pressure moved swiftly to facilitate the bull-taming sport.
China has witnessed a 10.4 per cent surge in tourist numbers, the first day of the week-long Lunar New Year holiday, with the number of visitors touching a record 50.5 million, officials said today.

In Beijing alone, 294,000 tourists visited the city's 160 key scenic spots yesterday, the first day of the Chinese New Year of the Rooster celebrations.

Tourist-generated income climbed to 59 billion yuan (USD 8.67 billion), up 13.3 per cent from one year earlier, the China National Tourism Administration said.

China was yesterday officially shutdown for a week to welcome the Chinese New Year of the Rooster amid the biggest annual human migration as people rushed to their native places to celebrate with their family members.

Northwestern Gansu province received 860,500 travellers, up 22.1 per cent year on year. The province reaped tourist revenues of 520 million yuan (USD 75 million), up 25.9 per cent year on year, state-run Xinhua agency reported.

In terms of outbound tourism, Phuket and Bangkok of Thailand, Nha Trang of Vietnam, Bali of Indonesia, and Singapore were among most popular destinations.

It is estimated that over six million Chinese people will travel abroad during the holiday.

Meanwhile, over 14.2 billion e-gift red packets, knowns as "hongbao", were distributed through WeChat, China's instant messaging app, during the Chinese new year being celebrated today.

This is 75.7 per cent higher than last year, according to WeChat, operated by Tencent.

Some 340 million users, also a record high, shared red packets on QQ, another social media platform under Tencent, the report said.

It is customary to distribute red packets with money to near and dear ones.

New forms of red packets such as "face-to-face and AR red packets" were adopted.

Lin Yuwen, a Beijing resident, said he distributed red packets totaling 1,200 yuan (USD 175) yesterday, almost double the amount last year.

The Chinese Lunar New Year, which this year is the Year of the Rooster, fell today. It is common for Chinese to distribute "hongbao," traditionally money in red envelopes, among friends and relatives during Spring Festival.

Analysts say the electronic red packets are used by Internet giants to expand their shares in the mobile payment market.

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Besides political biggies BJP and Congress, a clutch of regional parties are also testing electoral waters in Goa and hoping for a post-poll role with one of them even announcing its Chief Ministerial candidate.

Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP), contesting on 18 of the 40 Assembly seats, is the most prominent and formidable regional outfit in the coastal state.

After partying ways with BJP, MGP has cobbled an alliance with fellow regional outfit Goa Suraksha Manch (GSM) and Maharashtra-headquartered Shiv Sena.

Former Minister Sudin Dhavalikar of MGP, the oldest regional outfit in Goa, has been projected as the Chief Ministerial face of this alliance, which is seeking to make its presence felt in the February 4 Assembly polls.

Dhavalikar, contesting from Madkai, said his party represents the regional aspirations in Goa politics.

"MGP represents the regional parties and forces. For 18 years after Goa's liberation (in 1961), MGP was in power. Even when it was out of power, MGP continued to have representation in the Goa Assembly," Dhavalikar told PTI.

In the past, MGP has allied with both Congress and BJP - which are ideologically different - thus displaying realpolitik and deft manoeuvring in its bid to come to power.

Between 2007-2012, the party was part of the Congress -led ruling alliance. It then switched sides and joined the BJP-headed Government in 2012, but the two parties had a bitter fallout a few months ago and they are now facing each other in the election ring.

GSM, launched by rebel RSS leader Subhash Velingkar last year, is the newest regional outfit in the State and it is being keenly watched by political observers. Velingkar, a regional language crusader, has publicly announced his party's aim is to oust BJP from power.

GSM is the political arm of Bharatiya Bhasha Suraksha Manch (BBSM), an organisation which has been agitating for making only regional languages as as medium of instruction in State's elementary education.

The Velingkar-led party has fielded six candidates, while Shiv Sena is contesting on four seats.

Among the newly-formed regional outfit, Goa Forward is



a prominent name, but it does not have a pan-Goa presence. Mentored by South Goa-based politician Vijai Sardesai, it unsuccessfully tried for a tie-up with Congress and is now contesting on four seats.

The party swears by Goan ethos and Goanness, and has 'coconut' as its symbol. Sardesai himself is contesting from Fatorda, where he is pitted against Congress' Joseph Silva and Damodar Naik of BJP.

Atanasio Monserratte-led United Goan Party (UGP) has restricted its presence in and around Panaji. The party has fielded two candidates - Monserratte (Panaji) and Ramakant Borkar (Cortalim). Monserratte, being supported by Congress, is taking on BJP's sitting MLA Siddharth Cuncolienkar.

South Goa-based Goa Vikas Party (GVP) had extended outside support to the BJP-led Government since 2012, but is now contesting on its own in five constituencies - Benaulim, Velim, Navelim, Cortalim and Pernem.

Another regional party Goa Suraj party (GSP) is contesting on eight seats. Sitting Nuvem MLA and former Minister Fransisco Miccky Pacheco has left Goa Vikas Party to join GSP and is seeking another term from the same constituency.

Congress and BJP, the two major forces in the tourist State, have been heading the ruling coalitions in Goa for a long time with regional outfits as junior allies.
Winding up his tenure in New Delhi, US Ambassador to India Richard Verma recently hosted a dinner here attended by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju and Prime Minister of the Tibetan government-in-exile Lobsang Sangay, a move that has raised objections in China.

The dinner was hosted by Verma on January 15 for his visiting friend and Hollywood actor Richard Gere, in what may signal prominence to the Tibet issue in international fora.

The high-profile event was also attended by officials from both India and the US, besides a few Tibetan leaders.

Rijiju, Minister of State for Home Affairs, tweeted about the January 15 event yesterday along with a picture showing Sangay and Gere among others.

"Nice meeting my dear friend Richard Gere again. Thank you HE Richard Verma for a wonderful dinner & great tenure as USA Ambassador to India," Rijiju tweeted.

"Both of them are great friends of India and contributed a lot in many areas," the minister said.

Reacting to the event, Chinese Foreign Ministry told PTI in Beijing that "No country in the world recognises the so-called Tibetan government-in-exile".

"We are firmly against any country's official contact with it in any form, and resolutely opposed to any country's interference in China's internal affairs by using Tibet- related issues as an excuse," the Foreign Ministry said.

The presence of Tibetan leaders at the dinner has brought the focus back on the issue of Tibet's sovereignty as China routinely protests visits and meetings of Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama and his associates saying it constitutes meddling in its internal affairs.

In October last year, China had objected to Verma's visit to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh which Beijing claims as southern Tibet, saying any interference by Washington in the Sino-India boundary dispute will make it "more complicated" and "disturb" hard-won peace at the border.

Last month, China took strong exception to the Dalai Lama's meeting with President Pranab Mukherjee at Rashtrapati Bhavan during a children's summit.

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Veteran Bollywood actor Rishi Kapoor today advocated creating two different time zones for the country at a literary meet in the 'City of Joy'.

The heartthrob of the 70s-80s Hindi cinema, who was here to attend Tata Steel Kolkata Literary Meet, was visibly displeased as dusk descended during a conversation on his autobiography 'Khullam Khulla: Rishi Kapoor Uncensored' at the magnificent Victoria Memorial compound.

"You have darkness descending even at 5:30 PM while sun light is very much there in Mumbai around this time. In the northeast dusk settles even before here in Kolkata. So much loss of man hours," he said.

"In our country there must be two time zones to save working hours. Why we don't have it, I have been talking about this issue for a long time," the "Kapoor & Sons" actor said.

Recalling that he had heard Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru had discounted such a proposal decades back on the ground our public was not so educated to be nuanced with the differences of latitude and longitude and get confused, Rishi said, "Now since we are already in 2017 and moving into 2018, it was high time such a proposal was implemented.

Rishi, who also dwelt on his family's tryst with the city since 1927, complimented Kolkata for its pretty and clean look and said it was far better than Mumbai in that respect.

"In five years time I see beautification of Kolkata. It is really pretty and clean. You guys are notches ahead of Mumbai right now," he said.

The 64-year-old actor said that of the 100 year old history of Indian cinema, the four generation of Kapoors have the contribution of 89-90 years to a thunderous applause from the audience.

He later signed autographs of his new title.

Later in the night, Rishi tweeted, "Kolkata. Thank you for a good conversation and appreciating it.

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Congress leader Shantaram Naik today said that RSS is interested in bringing back a Goan man from their fold to be at the helm of affairs in the state, after the upcoming Assembly polls.

"It may be recalled that Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar was shifted to Delhi as he had become a liability for BJP in Goa. It appears, it is RSS which is now interested in posting a Goan RSS man in the state with a specific agenda," Naik told reporters here.

Speculations are rife that Parrikar might return to Goa politics if BJP is voted to power.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari had recently said after elections in Goa, the MLAs would choose their leader, but with a rider that the choice for the top slot could either be from among them or can be sent from the Centre.

Also, BJP president Amit Shah, at a rally in Goa, had said the next government would function under the leadership of Parrikar, further fuelling speculation on his possible return in the event of his party securing a fresh mandate.

Naik, a Rajya Sabha MP said that during the 2012 Assembly elections, Parrikar had held Congress MLAs and ministers responsible for illegalities in Goa's mining sector.

But when BJP came to power, he told the Legislative Assembly that none of the ministers or MLAs from the present or past government were involved in mining illegalities, he said.

Naik claimed it was Parrikar who even before the Supreme Court directive had ordered the closure of mining industry when he was the Chief Minister.

"It is therefore Parrikar alone who is responsible for all the mining crisis in Goa and subsequent unemployment of mining dependents," he alleged.

Goa will go to polls on February 4 to elect the 40-member House.

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Eminent Russian poet and essayist Maxim Amelin has lamented lack of awareness about present-day Indian writers among Russian readers, which he blamed on the absence of "direct communication" between the two countries.

Only a handful of contemporary writers, for example Arundhati Roy, enjoys some familiarity back in Russia and for that matter in Europe, but that too because their writings got to be translated in native languages, Amelin observes.

"It's a far cry from Rabindranath Tagore, Bankim Chandra Chatterjee and Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay whose works are hugely popular in Russia and several other European countries," Amelin told PTI on the fringes of the 41st Kolkata International Book Fair where he was a guest.

He said, "Only those contemporary Indian writers, who are published in Europe or US, have some following whereas there is no knowledge of the vast number of others due to the absence of direct communication between the two countries."



Precisely for the same reason there had been no knowledge in India about his own books of poetry "Cold Odes" (1996) and 'Dubia', the 47-year old author rued.

"There had been fraternal exchanges between the two countries before the collapse of the Soviet Union, but ever since there has been a gap," he pointed out.

Another accompanying member of the Russian delegation to the hugely popular book fair said that the "common addiction" to social media by youths of the two countries had not helped it since most Russians communicate through their own languages in the virtual world.

Not only Tagore, most Bengali writers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries are very popular with the Russians, he said.

Alena Novokshona, Project Manager of the Moscow International Book Fair, said that by attending the Kolkata Book fair, the third largest in the world in terms of footfall, the delegation was looking to gather new experiences which could help refurbish literary awareness of each other's authors.

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Director Sanjay Leela Bhansali and his crew have cancelled the shooting of "Padmavati" here in the wake of assault on him and vandalism on the sets of the movie by a Rajput group that has triggered outrage in the film industry which is demanding stern action against the culprits.

"The shooting has been stopped by the filmmaker at Jaigarh Fort and they have vacated the place," SHO Amer police station Narendra Kumar said.

A source close to the production said, "The makers have already clarified that there are no scenes between Padmavati and Allaudin Khilji's characters. Bhansali has shot his movies in Rajasthan in the past but he never faced any problem. What happened was unfortunate and the team is packing up."



Bhansali was roughed up by members of a Rajput community group yesterday, who also stopped the shooting of the film by damaging the set at Jaigarh Fort, alleging that the director was "distorting facts" in the movie which is about Alauddin Khilji's obsession with Rani Padmavati.

Karni Sena today reiterated its stand to oppose any distortion of historical facts and demanded a written assurance from the director while also blaming his security for the commotion yesterday.

"I do not support any violence. The Karni Sena had gone there to oppose the shooting and talk to Bhansali. But he refused to meet and three bullets were fired in the air by his security men which led to provocation and commotion," Lokendra Singh Kalvi, Karni Sena founder, said at a press conference.

He said they had communicated their objection six months prior to the shooting after they came to know about a supposed the dream sequence of Alauddin Khilji through Ranveer's interview.

While Bhansali is yet to publiclly comment on the issue, the industry, including the film's three lead stars -- Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone and Shahid Kapoor -- slammed the fringe outfit for the incident.

Deepika, who is in the titular role of Padmavati, tweeted, "In a state of shock!deeply saddened and disheartened by yesterday's events!#Padmavati."



The actress assured that the team behind the film is not distorting any historical facts and their aim is to bring on-screen the story of "courageous and powerful" Padmavati.

"As Padmavati I can assure you that there is absolutely no distortion of history.#Padmavati. Our only endeavour is & has always been to share with the world the story of this courageous & powerful woman in the purest form there is," she wrote.

Ranveer too termed it an "unfortunate" incident.

"What's happened is very unfortunate. We hope the people of Rajasthan will understand & empathise with our intentions & give us their support. As a team, we are making 'Padmavati' keeping in mind the sensitivities and emotions of the people of Rajasthan and the Rajput community.

"Sanjay Sir is one of the most accomplished & authentic filmmakers we have in India, & he wont ever do anything to hurt anyones feelings," he tweeted.

Shahid, who is in the role of Raja Ratan Singh, condemned



the assault on Bhansali, saying violence is "unacceptable".

"Very very sad. Words do fall short and feel too little to express feelings. Violence is unacceptable. This incident has shocked me. We need to look deep within as a society, as a country, as a people. Where are we headed," he wrote.

Terming the incident as "unacceptable", Film & Television Producers Guild of India Ltd and many leading members of the film fraternity like Salim Khan, Shabana Azmi, Karan Johar, Anurag Kashyap, Hansal Mehta, have urged the government to take strong punitive action against the group.

"The people those who attacked Sanjay Leela Bhansali called themselves Rajputs. The incident is a matter of shame to the noble community," Salim tweeted.

"Film industry must stand as one and do whatever it takes to ensure that the reprehensible attack on SLB becomes a flashpoint for 'goondagiri' to stop," Azmi tweeted.

Johar, who himself has been at the recieving end of fringe elements during the release of "Ae Dil Hai Mushkil", said he felt "appalled" at what happened with Bhansali.

"Having been through many instances of turmoil during a film shoot or release... I understand Sanjay's emotions at this points. I stand by him.

"Thoughts of what has transpired with Sanjay Leela Bhansali today are just not leaving me. Feeling helpless and angry. This cannot be our future," he wrote.

Kashyap said he was suprised that people seem to know the story even though the film is yet to be made.

"We living in the times where everyone who does not read or research knows more truth than those who have spent a lifetime doing it," Kashyap said.

"What happened on Padmavati sets is appalling and heinous. Is this the state of the world," Sonam tweeted.

Mehta said, "The political environment in our country is encouraging for fringe elements and attack on cultural freedom."



Gowariker tweeted, "Shocking! Appalling!! Despairing!!! And still, we shall not stop making what we want to!! Sanjay stay strong! I am with you! #Padmavati."



Meanwhile, VHP also criticised the filmmaker and said that no attempt to distort the history will be tolerated by the Hindu community.

"A filmmaker is free to depict a fiction but when it comes to historic facts, a huge responsibilities lies with him. Rani Padmavati created history and insult to her will not be tolerated," Narpat Singh Shekhawat, a state VHP leader said.
Virtually pinning the blame of the alleged "scams" in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Coporation (BMC) on Devendra Fadnavis, the Shiv Sena today alleged that it was the Chief Minister who was responsible for approving proposals in his capacity as the state Urban Development Minister.

"The chief of a municipal corporation is the municipal commissioner who is appointed by the chief minister. Whenever proposals are approved by the standing committee of the BMC, it goes to the municipal commissioner and the Urban Development Department for final approvals. The UDD is headed by the chief minister," Sena MP Rahul Shewale told reporters here.

"Throughout the process, the chief minister is involved. He should thus, clarify who is responsible for corruption," Shewale, a former chairman of the BMC's standing committee, added.

BJP leaders, including Kirit Somaiya and Ashish Shelar, have repeatedly been chiding the Sena, alleging corruption in the BMC, which is controlled by Uddhav Thackeray's party.

Somaiya had recently said he would come out with a "black paper" on graft and malpractices in the civic body.

Shewale claimed that the "maximum" number of proceedings initiated by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) were against BJP corporators, adding that there was "maximum corruption in 30 departments" of the state government which were with the BJP.

"There is no transparency in the (functioning of the) Home department under the chief minister. They should thus, learn the meaning of corruption before levelling allegations," he said.

Responding to Somaiya's allegations of "mafia raj" in the BMC, Shewale said the Sena was ready to disclose the names of the "mafias" and sought to know if Fadnavis will take action against them.

"If you have the courage, take action. When Somaiya is alleging a road scam in the BMC, does he not know that a chargesheet has been filed against all the contractors responsible and that the BMC has not even disbursed money to those who are responsible?" the Sena MP asked.

He also alleged that those who have been accused in the "garbage scam", had "sponsored BJP programmes" in the city.

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Regime forces have advanced to within seven kilometres of the northern Syrian town of Al-Bab which is held by the Islamic State jihadist group, a monitor said today.

President Bashar al-Assad's fighters have seized three villages since yesterday, bringing them to around four miles from Al-Bab to its southwest, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

Turkish forces, meanwhile, have gathered to the north of the town, the Britain-based monitor said.

Al-Bab has come under heavy assault in recent weeks, with Turkish, Russian and Syrian warplanes carrying out strikes in or around the town.

Yesterday, the Britain-based monitor said 10 civilians including a child were killed in Turkish air strikes and shelling in the area.

Turkish forces regularly carry out air strikes in support of a ground operation they launched in Syria last August targeting both IS and Kurdish fighters.

Several this month have been joint operations with Russia.

Turkish officials say the utmost is done to avoid causing civilian casualties, and have denied claims that civilians have been killed in previous raids.

Turkey's state-run Anadolu agency reported yesterday that the latest round of raids had killed 22 IS "terrorists".

IS is not included in a fragile nationwide ceasefire in force since December 30 that led to peace talks jointly organised by Turkey, Russia and Iran in Kazakhstan this week.

Ankara has backed rebels since the conflict began with the brutal repression of anti-government protests in March 2011.

Moscow and Tehran have supported the government.

The Observatory, which relies on a wide network of sources inside Syria for its information, says it determines whose planes carry out raids according to type, location, flight patterns and munitions used.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi today heaped praises on Manohar Parrikar, saying he was thankful to Goa for giving 'such a strong' Defence Minister.

"I am thankful to Goa for giving such a strong Defence Minister to the country. Entire world is now discussing surgical strikes," Modi said addressing a BJP rally here.

Before moving to the Centre as a Defence Minister, Parrikar had served as Chief Minister of Goa, after the party secured a mandate in 2012 Assembly polls.

"Some people are still studying the surgical strikes. How did the jawans reach there? I said when I went to Lahore, I went during the day, but still the world was wondering how did I reach there. Agar Hindustan ek bar thaan leta hai to uske jawan parakram karke dikhate hai (IfIndia resolves, then its soldiers show bravery)," said the Prime Minister.

Meanwhile, Modi also said his government is for the poor and working to root out corruption.

"We have began campaign against corruption across the country. Common man is never involved in the corruption. Big people are involved in corruption. Now I am being harassed because they are facing inconvenience because of me," said the Prime Minister.

"Modi is removing everything which they have collected during last 70 years. This government is for the poor. We are taking firm steps to uplift the poor. Our steps would be strict but they would be for the welfare of the country and not for political benefits. We are making honest attempt to free the country from corruption," he said.

The Prime Minister further said there has been a fashion in the country to give speeches on eradicating poverty, corruption.

"But when you take any step to eradicate corruption, they are the ones to face the first attack," he quipped.

He pointed out that in Karnataka, new notes, black money and gold of more than Rs 150 crore was found at a Congress minister's house.

"Karnataka government was not even bothered about it. They have not even asked that minister to resign. He has not even been issued the notice," added Modi.

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President Donald Trump's administration is drafting an executive order giving the US military 30 days to devise a new strategy for defeating the Islamic State group, the White House said today.

A senior administration official told reporters that Trump might sign the order -- designed to fulfill one of his main campaign pledges -- as early today.

The order is seen as meaning more US forces and military hardware moving into Iraq and Syria.

"We have to get rid of ISIS. We have no choice," Trump told Fox in an interview broadcast Thursday, using another acronym for the jihadist group.

"This is evil. This is a level of evil that we haven't seen."



Barack Obama took a longer term view of the anti-IS fight, with a more cautious commitment of US forces, instead ramping up an air war against the violent extremists.

"President Trump might be looking for something with quicker results, that could put some more options on the table," retired lieutenant general David Barno, who led coalition forces in Afghanistan from 2003 to 2005, told National Public Radio yesterday.

The Wall Street Journal reported that Trump wants the Pentagon to come up with a new set of options for a tougher campaign against IS.

The United States currently has 5,000 troops in Iraq and 500 in Syria as "advisors" -- but also US artillery and aircraft to help in the fight.

They have provided substantial support to the assault led by Iraqi forces on Islamic State's hold on the key city of Mosul.

The slow, steady assault has driven IS fighters out of part of the city on the east bank of the Tigris River, and forces are now preparing an assault on IS-held Mosul neighborhoods on the river's west bank.

According to reports, an escalation of the US role could involve more US armor and helicopters engaging in the assaults on IS positions together with Iraqi, Turkish and Kurdish forces.

Trump "could elect to put American boots on the ground on larger numbers," Barno said.

"That all entails new uses of military power... And that opens the prospect of a deeper involvement with more casualties.

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Hailing Brexit as a blessing to the world, US President Donald Trump has said it would give the UK its "own identity" as he met British Prime Minister Theresa May in his first summit with a foreign leader since his inauguration.

May, dressed in red, was greeted in person by Trump when she arrived at the White House and the two leaders then met at the Oval Office.

At a joint press conference, Trump reiterated his support for Britain's decision to leave the European Union, saying, "A free and independent Britain is a blessing to the world and our relationship has never been stronger."



Both leaders said they would work to strengthen US and the UK's commercial ties, with the British Prime Minister hoping that a swift trade deal with Washington will mitigate the effects of Brexit.

May said Trump had accepted an invitation to make a state visit to Britain later this year.

The US-UK defence relationship is the deepest of any two countries, May said during the press conference.

She said a trade deal between the two countries is in the national interests of both.

Trump threw his weight behind Britain's exit from the European Union, saying it would be a "wonderful thing" for the country.

"I think when it irons out, you're going to have your own identity, and you are going to have the people that you want in your country," Trump said as he hosted May at the White House.

"You're going to be able to make free trade deals without having somebody watching you and what you are doing," he said.

During the press meet, Trump also spoke on controversial topics like the use of torture as he reiterated his support for harsh interrogation techniques but said he will defer to his Pentagon chief, who opposes their use.

The meeting was being watched with global interest as the two countries seek to find common ground on trade and lay the groundwork for a new deal following last year's Brexit vote in favour of the UK to leave the European Union.

Trump said he believes Brexit will end up being a fantastic thing for the United Kingdom.

"In the end it will be tremendous asset not a liability," said the US President.

May said she is convinced that a trade deal between the US and the UK will cement the crucial relationship that exists between them, particularly as the UK leaves the European Union and reaches out to the world.

"We are discussing how we can establish a trade negotiation agreement, take forward immediate high-level talks, lay the groundwork for UK-US trade agreement and identify the practical steps we can take now in order to enable companies in both countries to trade and do business with one another more easily," May said.

It was also Trump's first tryst with face-to-face diplomacy as he welcomed his first foreign visitor to the White House.

Trump played down speculation that he is about to lift



sanctions on Russia.

Asked by reporters whether he was planning to lift Russia sanctions, he said: "It's very early to be talking about that."



May said Britain believes sanctions should continue until Russia upholds its commitments of the international Minsk Agreement.

May also said that Trump vowed '100 per cent' support for NATO.

Ahead of the meeting with Trump, May, while speaking at the Republican Retreat in Philadelphia, said with the emergence of non-state actors, it is time that the countries like the US and Britain assert their leadership role.

May said Britain and the US must "lead together" again and play their role in safeguarding global security even as she welcomed the rise of democratic allies like India.

May also paid her respects to the military dead of the US at Arlington National Cemetery outside Washington DC.

The UK Prime Minister laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns at the Virginia military cemetery, which holds the remains of unidentified US troops from the First and Second World Wars, as well as the Korean war.

Dressed in black, May was greeted by troops representing all military units based in Washington, led by Major General Bradley Becker, commander of Joint Force Headquarters for the national capital region.

A cannon was fired 19 times as the prime minister's convoy arrived at the cemetery and made its way to the memorial, which stands on a small hill looking down over serried ranks of gravestones to the monuments of Washington a few miles away across the Potomac River.

The new US president and the premier, who took office in July, both have strong political incentives to make the visit -- likely to be heavier on symbolism and aspiration than deliverables -- a roaring success.
President Donald Trump and Germany Chancellor Angela Merkel have agreed during a telephone call that NATO is "fundamental," the White House said, despite the American leader's past characterization of the transatlantic military alliance as "obsolete."



"The president and chancellor also agreed on the NATO alliance's fundamental importance to the broader transatlantic relationship and its role in ensuring the peace and stability of our North Atlantic community," a White House statement yesterday said.

It added that Trump will attend the upcoming G20 summit in Hamburg, Germany in July.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
President Donald Trump today signed an executive order that calls for "extreme vetting" of people entering the US from certain Muslim-majority countries, a move he said is aimed at keeping "radical Islamic terrorists" out of America.

The executive order "Protection of The Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry Into The United States" notes that the steps taken by the US in the aftermath of 9/11 has not been able to deter terrorists from entering the country.

"Numerous foreign-born individuals have been convicted or implicated in terrorism-related crimes since September 11, 2001, including foreign nationals who entered the US after receiving visitor, student, or employment visas, or who entered through the US refugee resettlement program," it said.

The move fulfils the vow Trump made on the campaign trail to limit Muslim immigration to the United States.

"I'm establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America. We don't want them here," Trump said after he signed the executive order in his first visit to the Pentagon, a week after he was sworn in as the President.

"We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas. We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people," Trump said.

"We will never forget the lessons of 9/11 nor the heroes who lost at the Pentagon. They were the best of us. We will honour them not only with our words, but with our actions, and that's what we're doing today," said Trump flanked by Defence Secretary Gen (rtd) James Mattis and the Vice President Mike Pence.

Deteriorating conditions in certain countries due to war, strife, disaster, and civil unrest increase the likelihood that terrorists will use any means possible to enter the US, the executive order said.

The US must be vigilant during the visa-issuance process to ensure that those approved for admission do not intend to harm Americans and that they have no ties to terrorism, it said.

"In order to protect Americans, the US must ensure that those admitted to this country do not bear hostile attitudes toward it and its founding principles," the executive order said adding that the US cannot, and should not, admit those who do not support the Constitution, or those who would place violent ideologies over American law.

In addition, the US should not admit those who engage in acts of bigotry or hatred (including "honour" killings, other forms of violence against women, or the persecution of those who practice religions different from their own) or those who would oppress Americans of any race, gender, or sexual orientation, it said.

The executive order suspends the US Refugee Admissions Programme for 120 days until it is reinstated "only for nationals of countries for whom" members of Trump's Cabinet deem can be properly vetted.

The order also prevents all persons from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia or Yemen from entering the country for 30 days.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
US President Donald Trump spoke by phone today with various world leaders, amid growing international alarm and a legal challenge over his moves to drastically limit Muslim immigration to the United States.

In a flurry of calls that started early in the morning and rounded out an already frantically paced week, Trump spoke with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

He has calls planned for later in the day with French President Francois Hollande and Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.

The conversations gave the US president an early opportunity to explain new policies that have baffled and unnerved much of the rest of the world -- particularly his order to temporarily halt all refugee arrivals and those of travelers from seven mainly Muslim countries including war-wracked Syria.

The calls also allow him to start developing ties with countries that have been close allies with the United States in recent history, as well as Russia -- a perennial foe, but a country with which Trump has said he is keen to improve relations.

Trump's pronouncement on Muslim immigration makes good on one of his most controversial campaign promises to subject travelers from Islamic countries to "extreme vetting," which he declared would make America safe from "radical Islamic terrorists."



"This is big stuff," the new US president declared at the Pentagon yesterday, after signing an executive order entitled "Protection of the nation from foreign terrorist entry into the United States."



The decree suspends the entire US refugee resettlement program for at least 120 days while tough vetting rules are established.

The new protocols "ensure that those approved for refugee admission do not pose a threat to the security and welfare of the United States."



In addition, they specifically bar Syrian refugees from the United States indefinitely, or until the president himself decides that they no longer pose a threat.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
US President will speak with leaders of Russia, Germany, France and Australia on Saturday, the White House said, covering major leaders of Europe.

Trump's first phone call is scheduled to be with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, followed by that with German Chancellor Angela Markel and the Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Later in the afternoon, Trump is scheduled to speak with the French President Francis Hollande and the Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.

Trump will also sign a series of executive orders, the White House said.

After becoming the 45th US President last Friday, Trump has so far spoken with leaders of Canada, Mexico, Egypt and Israel.

Trump also spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
US President Donald Trump has invited Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe for a meeting at the White House on February 10, a presidential spokesman said today.

The invitation was extended to Abe during the telephonic conversation that the two leaders had this morning -- the first between the two leaders after Trump was sworn in as the 45th President of the United States on January 20.

"During call with Japanese Prime Minister Abe @POTUS invited him to a meeting at White House on February 10th," White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer tweeted.

Abe has also met Trump in New York after he won the November 8 general elections.

The telephonic conversation comes just days after Trump formally withdrew the US from the Trans-Pacific Partnership. The US participation was seen as key to the agreement.

(Reopens FES 48)



In a readout of the phone call, the White House said Trump and Abe discussed the importance of the US-Japan alliance and cooperation on regional and global issues.

"President Trump affirmed the iron-clad US commitment to ensuring the security of Japan," the White House said.

They also discussed the significance of Secretary of Defence James Mattis's upcoming visit to the region, including Japan.

Trump and Abe said they would consult and cooperate on the threat posed by North Korea, the White House said.

"The two leaders also committed to deepen the bilateral trade and investment relationship. President Trump and Prime Minister Abe agreed to meet in Washington, on February 10," said the readout of the phone call.
US President Donald Trump has invited Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe for a meeting at the White House next month, as he reaffirmed US' "iron-clad" commitment to Japan's security.

The invitation was extended to Abe during the telephonic conversation that the two leaders had this morning -- the first between the two leaders after Trump was sworn in as the 45th President of the United States on January 20.

"During call with Japanese Prime Minister Abe @POTUS invited him to a meeting at White House on February 10th," White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer tweeted.

Abe has also met Trump in New York after he won the November 8 general elections.

The telephonic conversation comes just days after Trump formally withdrew the US from the Trans-Pacific Partnership. The US participation was seen as key to the agreement.

In a readout of the phone call, the White House said Trump and Abe discussed the importance of the US-Japan alliance and cooperation on regional and global issues.

"President Trump affirmed the iron-clad US commitment to ensuring the security of Japan," the White House said.

They also discussed the significance of Secretary of Defence James Mattis's upcoming visit to the region, including Japan.

Trump and Abe said they would consult and cooperate on the threat posed by North Korea, the White House said.

"The two leaders also committed to deepen the bilateral trade and investment relationship. President Trump and Prime Minister Abe agreed to meet in Washington, on February 10," said the readout of the phone call.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Britain's BAE Systems today signed a deal with Turkey's national aerospace firm to develop a new generation of Turkish fighter jets, the British government said in a statement.

Under the deal signed in Ankara during a visit by British Prime Minister Theresa May, BAE Systems and state-owned Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) will establish a partnership for the development of the TF-X fighter jet.

Commenting on the agreement, May said it indicated that "Britain is a great, global, trading nation and that we are open for business", after the Brexit vote saw the country seeking new partners for trade.

"It marks the start of a new and deeper trading relationship with Turkey and will potentially secure British and Turkish jobs and prosperity for decades to come," May added.

The deal is a so-called Heads of Agreement which is non-binding and will only be obligatory once formal contracts are signed.

The initial phase is worth over 100 million pounds (117 million euros), Downing Street said.

But the agreement can pave the way for further deals potentially worth billions of pounds over a 20-year lifespan, May's spokeswoman told reporters.

Currently the Turkish air force flies F-16s, some of which were used to bomb parliament by rogue elements in the military during the attempted overthrow of Erdogan last year.

Ankara has long mooted the plan to build its own homegrown fighter jets.

After a controversial visit to the United States meeting President Donald Trump, the spokeswoman stressed that it was in the UK's national interest to engage with Turkey on trade and defence despite criticism at home and abroad of May's cosying up to Erdogan.

"Our defence and security cooperation is justified and important because Turkey is an important ally in NATO," the spokeswoman added.

BAE Systems chief executive Ian King said the agreement confirmed the continued work on the aircraft's design and development in an "exciting next step in relations between both Turkey and the UK with the cooperation between BAE Systems and TAI".

The Turkish army is heavily involved in multiple military operations and frequently launches air strikes on Kurdish militant targets in northern Iraq and southeast Turkey, and more recently the Islamic State extremist group in northern Syria.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Actress Adah Sharma says her "Commando 2" co-star Vidyut Jammwal is really good at action and watching him do that was nothing less than inspiring.

Adah says though she wasn't intimidated by the actor, it was exciting to watch the kind of stunts he pulled for the action-thriller.

"It wasn't intimidating. We are not competing or anything like that. But just watching him do that was inspiring. I've been doing gymnastics since I was three. So, watching someone flying up and all is exciting to see," Adah told PTI.

"The stuff he does is very cool and it is quite inspiring to have someone like him on sets. You see the dedication he puts to do it and I am happy it's coming across on screen."



Directed by Deven Bhojani and produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah, the film is a sequel to the 2013 film "Commando."



The "Hasee Toh Phasee" star says she had to keep certain things in her mind, like holding a gun properly, since she is playing an encounter specialist in the film.

"I will be doing action in the film. I've never shot with guns before so that was fun. I didn't know how to hold a gun so I had to make it look convincing, holding it properly because I am playing an encounter specialist."



The actress, however, says her character is that of a "larger than life flamboyant" girl from Andhra Pradesh so she also had to get the right accent.

"It is rare that a leading lady would have an accent like this. We got this teacher who trained Aamir Khan in 'Dangal', Kangana in 'Tanu Weds Manu'. She worked with me on the accent.

"I am a Tamilian but if you know one South Indian language, getting the hang of another is a little easy. We tried Hyderabadi accent with Telugu. I was doing movies there so I stayed in Hyderabad for two years. So I love picking up accents."



"Commando 2" is scheduled to release on March 3.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Ordering a bottle of Corona beer at a bar in the United States is a simple proposition.

Getting it there from its brewery in Mexico involves a complex, cross-border supply network that will likely get more complicated if US president follows through on vows to renegotiate the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) or tax imports.

Trump has not outlined specific plans for revising NAFTA, but he has made repeated calls for a levy to discourage from moving jobs outside the United States. On Thursday, the White House floated a plan to impose a 20 per cent tax on imports. Republican leaders in the US House of Representatives have included a tax on imports in their blueprint for overhauling corporate taxes.

The ideas have met opposition in Congress, even inside Trump's own party. US Senator Lindsey Graham, a republican from South Carolina, took to Twitter on Thursday, saying "Simply put, any policy proposal which drives up costs of Corona, tequila, or margaritas is a big-time bad idea. Mucho Sad."

Trump's rhetoric has also heightened uncertainty over the billions in supply chain and infrastructure investment that a diverse array of from automakers and railroads to appliance makers and food producers have made on both side of the US Mexico border during the past two decades.

The stakes are high for brands like Corona, which is entirely brewed in Mexico, and the transport such as Union Pacific Corp that make money moving the beer's raw ingredients and packaging into Mexico, and bringing the finished brew back to the United States.

Victor, New York-based Constellation Brands Inc, which owns the U.S. rights to Corona, plans to spend $2.5 billion to expand an existing brewery in Nava, just south of the border with Texas and $2 billion on a new brewery in Mexicali by 2021.

Just days before the November 8 US election, the company said it would buy a Mexican brewery from Grupo Modelo for $600 million and expand its operations in the country.

To qualify as a Mexican beer, Constellation's beer brands must be made in Mexico. However, about 40 per cent of the cost of the company's Mexican beers are tied to ingredients, supplies and freight services that come from the United States, said David Klein, Constellation's chief financial officer during a conference call earlier this month.

The company - which has seen its market valuation triple to nearly $30 billion since 2013 when it obtained rights to sell Corona and other Mexican beer brands - imports hops, barley and other grains from the United States to brew Corona. The company does not disclose the specific origin of ingredients.

"The majority of our glass bottle supply comes from the glass plant at the Nava brewery and other Mexico suppliers. We source less than 20 per cent of our glass bottles from the United States. Some raw materials, including hops and grains to brew the beer, do come from the United States," Constellation said in a statement.

Farms in the Midwestern and Northwestern United States are major growers of barley in North America, and in 2015 Mexico was the world's largest importer of US barley. Since 2010, Mexico has been either the world's largest importer of US hops or second just behind the United Kingdom.

Unraveling the NAFTA supply chains of companies such as Constellation, or the big automakers, would lead to higher prices for consumer goods, experts and industry executives say.

"Everyone would lose, especially the consumer, it's that simple," said Brandon Stallard, CEO of Troy, Michigan-based TPS Logistics, which handles tens of thousands of cross-border shipments for customers daily.

US companies also benefit from Corona production. Perrysburg, Ohio-based glass maker Owens-Illinois formed a joint venture with Constellation to expand a glass bottle plant next to the Nava brewery and subsequently bought a major Mexican glass bottle producer to meet demand. Owens-Illinois declined to comment on where its raw materials come from.

Broomfield, Colorado-based Ball Corp is building a plant in Mexicali to make cans for Constellation's new brewery.

Constellation says it imports almost 20 per cent of its glass bottles from the United States. The company did not say where those bottles come from, but Lance Fritz, chief executive of No 1 US railroad Union Pacific often cites the example of glass bottles the company hauls from a plant in Texas to a brewery in Mexico and that those bottles are made from recycled glass Union Pacific hauls from all over America.

The railroad has also invested $40 million in cleaning, washing and repair facility for beer-carrying box-cars just north of Constellation's Nava brewery. Union Pacific hauls US barley, malt and rice for brewing.

"The job we have at hand is to help our elected officials see the world from our perspective and then pray for them to make the right decision," said Fritz.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Larsen & Toubro (L&T), which on Saturday reported a 38.85 per cent jump in its consolidated net profit at Rs 972 crore for the December quarter, said the government's 'cashless economy' efforts have caused 'disruption' and its impact on business is yet to be assessed.

The industrial giant had clocked a net profit of Rs 700.34 crore for October-December last fiscal.

The infrastructure conglomerate's total income from operations rose to Rs 26,286.98 crore during the quarter under review, from Rs 25,928.07 crore a year ago.

Its expenses during the quarter were slightly up at Rs 24,486.57 crore as against Rs 24,170 crore in the previous fiscal.

In its outlook, the company said the domestic growth appears to take longer time as investment momentum remains weak and the banking system is burdened by debt overhang.

On recent demonetisation, the infrastructure major said, "Government's initiatives to curb the parallel economy and make a transition to cashless economy have caused disruption whose impact on the business sentiment is yet to be conclusively assessed."

It said the challenging business conditions are expected to continue in the next few quarters until the government moves to lift growth through "infra spend and tax reforms take effect".

About global economic scenario, it said the revival hinges on the outcome of post Brexit events in the UK, change in the economic policy stance in the US, political developments in some of the major European countries and China's policy response to slowdown.

"Recovery of commodity prices and oil price uptick have provided a positive twist to the global economic revival predictions," it noted.

The company focus will be on "selective pursuit of opportunities, working capital reduction, cost optimisation through supply chain efficiencies and productivity enhancement through digitisation initiatives".

"Aided by these initiatives, the company is hopeful of a satisfactory performance, given the current business environment," it said.

The company said it has garnered fresh orders worth Rs 34,885 crore at the group level during the quarter ended December 2016 amid subdued business environment.

The international orders at Rs 11,865 crore constituted 34 per cent of the total order inflow, which on a cumulative basis, stood at Rs 95,706 crore for the nine months to December.

Major orders were secured by infrastructure and hydrocarbon Segments.

"Consolidated orderbook of the group stood healthy at Rs 2,58,585 crore as on December 31, 2016, higher by 1.4 per cent on a y-o-y basis. International orderbook constituted 29 per cent of the total orderbook," it said.

L&T said its infrastructure segment achieved customer revenue of Rs 12,467 crore for the December quarter, a y-o-y growth of 6 per cent.

"Delays in obtaining clearances and work slowdown due to abrupt liquidity constraints of customers aggravated by demonetisation impacted progress of jobs under execution, especially in buildings and factories business," it said.

It said transportation infrastructure and water and effluent treatment businesses contributed to the revenue growth during the quarter.

International revenue constituted 37 per cent of the total customer revenue of the segment.

During October-December 2016, the infrastructure segment won fresh orders of Rs 21,516 crore despite sluggish investment climate, it said.

Some of the anticipated orders did not materialise due to delay in bid process, it added.

L&T's IT and technology services (IT&TS) achieved customer revenue of Rs 2,454 crore during the quarter, registering growth of 9 per cent yoy.

Likewise, the financial services logged customer revenue of Rs 2,108 crore during the quarter, y-o-y growth of 11 per cent, driven by jump in loan assets and disbursements mainly in microfinance, housing and wholesale finance, it said.

Larsen & Toubro is an Indian MNC that is into technology, engineering, construction, manufacturing and financial services with over $16 billion in revenue. It operates in over 30 countries.
Nearly a decade after it was abolished in Budget 2007, there is a clamour to re-introduce 'Standard Deduction' to incentivise the salaried class by leaving a significant annual disposal income in their hands so that they can kick-start domestic consumption.

For the salaried, Standard deduction (SD) is equivalent of business-related expenses that businessmen deduct before arriving at their taxable income.

In its previous avatar, SD was capped at Rs 20,000 for salaried employees earning above Rs 5 lakh a year. For employees with annual income of between Rs 75,000 and Rs 5 lakh, SD of Rs 30,000 or 40 per cent of income--whichever was lower--was allowed.

If the FM is inclined to re-introduce SD, he should tie it to the extent of digital transactions the assessee makes during the year. Up to a cap of, say, Rs 30,000 or even Rs 50,000 (in case the FM doesn't intend to raise the minimum taxable income from Rs 2.50 lakh to Rs 3 lakh), SD should be claimed proportionate to the digital transactions conducted by the assessee during the financial year.

ALSO READ: Budget 2017-18 taxes: If this, then that!



The government needs to keep the definition of digital transactions as wide as possible. For instance, it must include all utility bill payments done digitally, all online bank transactions, including transfers via NEFT, IMPS, all credit and debit card transactions (excluding cash withdrawals/deposits); all wallet payments, etc.

Ideally, every Rs 2 transacted digitally should earn Rs 1 worth of standard deduction. This ensures that the higher income group conducts at least Rs 1 lakh worth of transactions digitally every year to claim Rs 50,000 worth of SD. Nothing stops the government from raising the SD cap from year to year.

Just like housing loan interest certificates, banks/payment banks, credit card companies, wallet should auto-generate Digital Transactions certificates and mail them to their customers. The IT tax assessee can collect all its digital transactions certificates and submit them to the I-T authorities along with annual IT returns to claim SD.

But none of this is going to be feasible if transactions charges remain as high as they are today. Credit cards have no cap on transaction charges; debit card charges were capped at 0.75 pc in 2012. Even these are capricious.

Most payments banks and wallet companies have suspended transaction charges for the moment in their race to beat each other at acquiring customers. However, they will begin charging when they are in a position to arm-twist the customer.

Andhra chief minister Chandrababu Naidu, who heads the state Chief Ministers' Committee on Digital Payments, has recommended abolishing all transaction charges in its report to the government.

Instead, Naidu recommends that digital infrastructure companies such as credit cards firms and banks be given minimal compensation by the government for aiding digital transactions. Clearly, the tyranny of digital transactions needs to be abolished if the government expects the SD-digital money objective to deliver the desired result.


| BY Lynchy |

The One Club for Creativity, producer of The One Show and the ADC Annual Awards, today announced the jury for the Young Ones College Competition, which now includes 10 new juries for the newly introduced portfolio competition.

There are 178 judges across 12 juries from 27 countries, including several from Australasia: Jason Williams, ECD, Leo Burnett Melbourne, Iggy Rodriguez, creative group head at Leo Burnett, Sydney, Steve Back, creative partner, Joy Sydny, Takeshi Takada, executive producer, Alt.vfx, Aussie expat Cam Hoelter, now ECD, DDB New York, Damon Stapleton, CC, DDB New Zealand.

The client brief, sponsored by Serviceplan, challenges students to raise awareness for the BMW Connected app  a digital service platform that enhances the connection between car, driver and smartphone  and magnify the perception of BMW as a leader in innovation.

The social brief tasks students to create or promote partnerships for peace. Students can use the TOMS brand as a vehicle for promoting worldwide unity, or they can bring diverse groups together for global peace in accordance with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and PartnersGlobals mission.

Winners are published in the One Show Annual and on the Young Ones Online Awards Archive, and are invited to attend the Young Ones Education Festival and Awards Ceremony during Creative Week New York in May. Winners receive either a One Show Pencil or an award of excellence for their portfolio.

This year we added a portfolio competition across 10 different disciplines, including illustration, game development and animation, said Jessica Gumora, education manager at The One Club. We expanded the Young Ones to make sure students with a broad range of creative interests could participate.
GoTo Networks, which is focusing on the development of new cable systems to greenfield or underserved markets, says the Djibouti Telecom will also take capacity on its new Australia West Express (AWE) cable, which will land in Djibouti Telecom facilities and enter service at the end of 2018.

John Mariano, CEO of GoTo Networks, said: Djibouti Telecom has provided important support to the AWE project throughout its planning phase. Now that we are nearing the beginning of the project, we are pleased in their investment in AWE, and their agreement to procure capacity between Djibouti and Perth.

The companies did not provide figures for how much Djibouti Telecom is investing in AWE, which is being built by Alcatel-Lucent Submarine Networks. The 10,100km cable will have two fibre pairs and will operate at an initial capacity of 10Tbps per fibre.

Djibouti, on the north-east African coast where the Red Sea enters the Indian Ocean, has become an important landing station for subsea cables. AWE will be able to interconnect there with at least six other cables, including EASSy, AAE-1 and SEA-ME-WE 5.

The new AWE system will provide valuable capability for transporting the rapidly growing traffic between Australia and points in the Middle East, Africa and Europe, said Mohamed Ahmed, director of government-owned Djibouti Telecom. We are excited to be participating in this most important project.

Meanwhile GoTo Networks has appointed Greg Varisco to the board of AWE. In 2010, he co-founded Emerald Networks, which later became Aqua Comms, of which he was CEO until October 2016.
Telia has been looking to offload assets beyond its core European business, last year marking its Eurasia operation as a discontinued line.

In September, it reached an agreement to sell its 60% stake in Tcells parent company, but this is currently tied up in a tax dispute with Tajikistans authorities.

Speaking following Telia Companys latest financial results, Dennelind said he was confident it would offload the assets this year, but said the timeframe was difficult to predict.

I also want to direct a special thank you to our employees in Eurasia for keeping focus and turning trends during exceptionally difficult environments and circumstances, he said.

When it comes to the disposal of Fintur Holdings, we have seen an increased interest in our assets following the decision to explore a joint divestment of Fintur Holdings together with Turkcell. We see it as highly probable that the Eurasian assets will be disposed during 2017. As we already explained last quarter, the timing of the sale of Ucell asset is the most difficult to predict.

We continue to have a constructive dialogue with the US, Dutch and Swedish authorities in their respective investigations and have an active dialogue regarding the proposed settlement of $1.45 billion, recorded in our books in quarter three. Our ambition is to close this in a responsible way and in the best interest of our shareholders.

Ucell is Telias Uzbekistani arm that was caught up in a poltical and legal scandal due to how it entered the market.

The Uzbekistan scandal dates back to what was then TeliaSoneras acquisition of Uzbekistan operator Coscom  later rebranded as Ucell  in July 2007. TeliaSonera "did not conduct a sufficiently in-depth analysis into the identity of our local partner in Uzbekistan before we invested in the country or into how this partner came to own the assets that were later obtained by TeliaSonera", said then

CEO Lars Nyberg in his 2013 resignation statement.

In its fourth-quarter results, Telia Company posted net sales of SEK 21 billion ($2.3 billion), down 6.7% on Q4 2015. EBITDA declined 2.7% to SEK 6.3 billion ($712 million).
Millennial Moms Review: 2022 Acura MDX is pretty close to the perfect family car

I dont know if perfect is attainable, especially considering weve got the world of options when it comes to modern vehicles. Were spoiled and, as such, we have very specific needs and wants. Driving-wise, the 2022 Acura MDX is one of my favourite ...
Our Promise: Welcome to Care2, the world's largest community for good. Here, you'll find over 45 million like-minded people working towards progress, kindness, and lasting impact.

Care2 Stands Against: bigots, racists, bullies, science deniers, misogynists, gun lobbyists, xenophobes, the willfully ignorant, animal abusers, frackers, and other mean people. If you find yourself aligning with any of those folks, you can move along, nothing to see here.

Care2 Stands With: humanitarians, animal lovers, feminists, rabble-rousers, nature-buffs, creatives, the naturally curious, and people who really love to do the right thing.

You are our people. You Care. We Care2.
Sometimes its good to be reminded of just how good a car is by giving it go once more. In the case of the Mitsubishi Xpander, its the smal...
If you drive frequently, theres a good chance youll see at least one crazy driving maneuver by a fellow motorist every other day, if not everyday. However, its not often you see dangerous driving quite this stupid.



Filmed on a Scottish road last week, the terrifying scene shows a blue Skoda Octavia vRS overtaking a truck at high speed, coming within inches of crashing head-on into an oncoming Honda Accord.

The driver of the truck claims that alongside passing himself in the terrifying stunt, the Skoda driver also overtook a van and an Audi A3.

In order to avoid any contact, the Accord driver was forced to pull to the left side of the road as the Skoda leisurely pulls back into its own lane. It even passes the Honda while still on the wrong side of the road.

Fortunately, no one was injured in the near-crash and hopefully, the Skoda driver will learn his lesson from the lucky escape.

VIDEO
Chinese automaker Geely says that it may have to change its plans of launching its Lynk & Co mobility brand in the United States in early 2019 due to the presidency of Donald Trump.



The brands first model, dubbed the 01, was unveiled in October last year prior to the U.S. Presidential election. Now with Trump in office and the possibility of new tariffs being placed on imported cars, the company is wary.

While speaking with Reuters at the National Automobile Dealers Association convention in New Orleans, the brands senior vice president Alain Visser said such taxes could be a risk for the firm but remains optimistic.

Thats an open question but were going to offer employment in the U.S. so we believe theres a positive business case to let us in.

Despite being a new company, Lynk & Co plans on opening 170 retail stores in China this year and is targeting 100 stores for the United States where it will compete against the likes of Toyota and Honda.

Lynk & Co says that its first model, the 01, is the worlds most connected car. It is based around the same modular architecture set to be used by the upcoming Volvo XC40 SUV. Possible engine options include 2.0-liter and 1.5-liter petrol engines as well as a plug-in hybrid. Fully electric models are also likely.

PHOTO GALLERY
Photo: Penticton Fire Department

The Penticton legion is doing its part to help the fire department buy a new boat.

The legion will host a big spaghetti dinner fundraiser and auction, Saturday, Feb. 11 to raise funds for the fire department marine rescue boat.

Auction items include race car rides at the new Circuit Area 27 track near Oliver, and a family helicopter ride donated by HNZ Topflight Helicopters.

Tickets to this family event can be purchased for $15 each from the main firehall at 250 Nanaimo Ave. W. or at the legion at 502 Martin Street.
Photo: CTV - File photo Bill Bennett

A group of First Nations women have staked a mineral claim on the property of the minister of energy and mines in Cranbrook to demonstrate how easy the process is.

Bev Sellars, former chief of the Xat'sull First Nation in Soda Creek and chair of BCs First Nations Women Advocating Responsible Mining, says they wanted to show how ridiculously easy it is to stake a claim on someones land."

Sellars says she spent a few minutes at a BC government services centre getting a $25 Free Miner Certificate, and then staked the claim on Bennett's property for $104.89.

Anyone can do it in just a few minutes and they do not even need to ask for permission or even inform those persons whose land they are staking, said Ms. Sellars. We think this is wrong, and we hope that Mr. Bennett might now be inclined to agree with us."

The placer claim is used to conduct exploration activity.

Sellars says BC's claims staking system is at the root of confrontations and title and rights issues with First Nations.

We will have a lot more to say on this issue and related mining concerns in the coming months, but for now, we hope our staking this claim will get politicians and the public thinking, Sellars said.
Photo: Google Street View

The provincial government is providing funding to open three new hospice beds in West Kelowna.

The $90,000 grant through the BC Centre for Palliative Care, will go towards three newly-designed hospice beds at Brookhaven Care Centre in West Kelowna.

"Anyone who has helped a loved one struggle in their final days knows how important end-of-life care is," said Premier Christy Clark, MLA for Westside-Kelowna.

"With our partners, we are helping to provide patients and their families with the supports they need in."

The Health Ministry and health authorities collaborated with the centre to determine how best to allocate the funds.

A study of palliative population was undertaken to assess characteristics such as age, underlying cause of death and geography.

"Those nearing end of life and their loved ones deserve timely, well- co-ordinated, compassionate care as close to home as possible," said Interior Health board chair John O'Fee.

"Our strategy includes specialized education for staff; dedicated resources in the form of a medical director and newly created nurse specialist roles; and the introduction of designated palliative beds, including those announced here."

The new beds should be open in March of this year.
Photo: The Canadian Press

Atlantic Canadian companies that want to hire international students and skilled workers will soon get government help.

Atlantic Canadian premiers and several federal ministers announced a key step in an immigration pilot project, at the conclusion of their second meeting on the Atlantic Growth Strategy initiative Friday.

Federal Immigration Minister Ahmed Hussen said the provinces will now start designating employers that want to hire skilled immigrants.

Immigrants arriving in the region will have a job offer and an individualized settlement plan for them and their families.

"The idea behind this is to leverage the unique position of employers to help immigrants and their families better integrate into their new communities in Atlantic Canada and to remain here for the long-term so they can help grow the region's economy," Hussen said after Friday's meeting in Wolfville, N.S.

Under the plan  part of the new Atlantic Immigration Pilot announced last July  the government will accept up to 2,000 immigrant applications this year, with increased numbers in following years depending on performance.

The pilot project is aimed at ensuring newcomers stay in the region instead of joining the stream of outmigration to other parts of the country.

Nova Scotia Premier Stephen McNeil said his province recognizes the need to capitalize on the 20,000 young people who choose his province for post-secondary education.

"About seven to eight thousand of them are from other countries," said McNeil. "We're aggressively going to work with our universities to grow that number even more and provide them an avenue to stay inside of our province to grow jobs and create opportunities."

The premiers and federal ministers also agreed in principle to a $20 million Atlantic trade and investment growth strategy, with an aim of doubling the number of exporting companies in the region by 2025.

They also announced the expansion of the federal government's Accelerated Growth Service  which provides financing support and advice to companies  to the region.

The immigration plan is only one of the five pillars in the Atlantic Growth Strategy. Other aspects deal with innovation, clean growth and climate change, trade and investment, and infrastructure.
Photo: The Canadian Press

Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister is being criticized for saying young indigenous men with criminal records are responsible for night hunting, which he previously said was fuelling a "race war."

"Young indigenous men  a preponderance of them are offenders, with criminal records  are going off shooting guns in the middle of the night," Maclean's magazine quotes Pallister as saying from his vacation home in Costa Rica.

"It doesn't make sense."

His comments came after a speech he made last week in which he said tension surrounding night hunting is leading to a "race war."

"Young indigenous guys going out and shootin' a bunch of moose 'cause they can, 'cause they say it's their right, doesn't make any sense to me,'' he said in the speech.

"This is a poor practice. A dumb practice ... It should stop.

"So what are we doing? We're organizing to bring indigenous people together and say the same thing I just said to ya, 'cause it's becoming a race war, and I don't want that."

The Opposition is demanding Pallister apologize for his latest comments and commit to educating himself about First Nations.

NDP legislature member Amanda Lathlin said Pallister's comments are ignorant and feed into a dangerous stereotype of indigenous people.

"Those comments were racist and irresponsible," said Lathlin. "He did not consult or talk to our hunters in that community. That conversation is absolutely missing."

Olivia Baldwin-Valainis, spokeswoman for Pallister, said in an emailed statement that the province has stepped up its enforcement of laws that ban the use of bright lights to hunt at night. She said that resulted in 44 charges in 2016.

Baldwin-Valainis didn't say how many of the people charged were indigenous or how many had criminal records.

"Reports of dangerous hunting practices have increased," she wrote. "Two human lives have been lost, livestock have been found shot on private property and agricultural equipment, homes and buildings have been hit by stray bullets."
Photo: The Canadian Press

Lawyers for a former Summerland man convicted of killing two missing Alberta seniors have filed an appeal.

Travis Vader was sentenced earlier this week to life in prison for manslaughter in the deaths of Lyle and Marie McCann. The couple, in their late 70s, vanished in July 2010 after leaving their Edmonton-area home to go camping in British Columbia.

A notice of appeal from the defence asks Alberta's top court to set aside the conviction and enter a stay on the charges or an acquittal. If there is to be a new trial, Vader wants his case heard by a jury.

If the conviction stands, Vader wants his "demonstrably unfit" sentence changed, says the notice filed Friday.

The court document lists a dozen grounds for appeal, including the trial judge not ordering a mistrial after initially finding Vader guilty of second-degree murder.

Court of Queen's Bench Justice Denny Thomas mistakenly used an outdated section of the Criminal Code and later substituted his verdict with manslaughter.

The appeal notice says Thomas first erred in the case a year ago when he refused to stay the charges because of an unreasonable delay in getting to trial.

The judge then relied on circumstantial evidence and unsavoury Crown witnesses during the trial, the notice claims.

"The learned trial judge erred in law by making findings of fact in both his reasons for conviction and reasons for sentence that were unreasonable and not supportable by the evidence."

The motion further claims the judge failed to find that Vader's rights were violated while he was in custody. Vader testified during his sentencing hearing that guards humiliated him during a strip search and RCMP prevented him from meeting privately with a lawyer.

The defence had asked that Vader receive a stay because of the alleged mistreatment or get more credit for his time behind bars and be released with time served.

Thomas determined at trial that Vader was a desperate drug addict who came across the McCanns and killed them during a robbery west of Edmonton. He then burned their motorhome and disposed of their bodies in the wilderness, the judge said.

The couple's remains have never been found.
Photo: Contributed

Trans rights activists say it is only a matter of time before the federal government drops any mention of gender from government-issued identification after the Liberals publicly said officials don't always need the information.

The admission came as part of a human rights settlement this month over the use of sex and gender in issuing social insurance numbers. The government agreed to give Canadians a third choice on applications, neither female nor male.

Christin Milloy, the trans activist behind the complaint, said the government's own words set the stage for the all government identification documents to become gender-neutral.

"It bolsters the case for those people who are challenging  in other provinces and the federal government  the presence of sex and gender on ID because every single one of those cases will refer to this settlement, to this statement that's been made."

Milloy and the federal government settled a long-running human rights complaint earlier this month after the Liberals agreed the federal government doesn't always need to know someone's sex or gender before handing out a social insurance number.

The departments policy of using the sex designation at birth discriminated against transgender persons, the complaint argued. Milloy also argued the information was not necessary to identify a numbers holder.

In a statement about the settlement, Social Development Minister Jean-Yves Duclos said his department will only collect the information if needed to receive a benefit or for legitimate purposes, such as policy and program development.

The government will no longer make it mandatory to provide sex or gender information for a social insurance number and will provide a third option for those who don't identify as male or female. ESDC also no longer requires supporting documents to change the gender designation in the registry.

"Changing gender markers is a bureaucratic nightmare and in many circumstances it's impossible to do and it just creates enormous barriers," said Milloy, a former Ontario Libertarian candidate whose political leanings now swing to the left.

I am looking forward to a world in which nobody in Canada faces those barriers ever again."

The Liberals are conducting a sweeping policy review on the use of gender and sex information in government programs, but are making no promises about when it will be done or when a decision will be made on a long-running internal evaluation about how to make passports gender-neutral.

Federal immigration officials first started looking into the issue in 2015, but have yet to come to any decision. A spokesman said officials are still considering offering a third-sex option on department-issued documents, including passports, "as not all people identify with the choices of either female or male."

Seven countries allow a third sex designation on their passports  Australia, Bangladesh, Germany, India, Nepal, New Zealand and Pakistan  and passport standards from the International Civil Aviation Organization, which Canada adheres to, allow governments to allow a third sex or gender category, usually marked with an X.'
Photo: Wikipedia

A new bus service between Smithers and the First Nations village of Moricetown in northwestern B.C. will only take about 30 minutes, but the ride along the so-called Highway of Tears has been years in the making.

The service that starts Monday is along a small section of Highway 16, the route that stretches between Prince George and Prince Rupert where 18 women have disappeared or been murdered since the 1970s.

John Rustad, B.C.'s minister of aboriginal relations and reconciliation, says part of the service plan involves working with First Nations communities to train bus drivers and operate transit services between their villages and major communities along the highway.

First Nations, social-service agencies and womens groups have been calling for a shuttle bus service in the area for several years to provide safe transportation for people who live in communities along the 750-kilometre route.

Moricetown Band Chief Duane Mitchell says the community is excited about the opportunity for safe and reliable transportation for their membership.

The federal and provincial governments announced a $5 million transportation plan last year that aims to improve travel and safety options along the highway and to the many remote First Nations communities in the area.

Rustad, who was in Smithers for the bus announcement on Friday, says the transit plan was a long time in coming.

He says further bus route expansion announcements are planned for the coming months.

"There's a real challenge in trying to provide the standard type of transit option that we think about when we think of Vancouver or Victoria," Rustad says.

"I know there are a lot of people who would have liked to have seen this happen more quickly, but working with families and communities to make sure we get this right was important."
Photo: Nicholas Johansen

B.C. Premier Christy Clark brushed off questions about cash-for-access rules in the province on Friday.

This comes a day after a $5,000-a-plate fundraising dinner for her party at Mission Hill Winery in West Kelowna.

"We'll see how it works. I think it's an interesting idea, so we're watching it," said Clark.

Clark was pressed on whether shed introduce any of the changes being drafted by Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus government.

Attendees at Thursdays dinner met at an undisclosed location, and were shuttled into the winery by van.

The proposed federal rules would ban hosting fundraisers at private homes or clubs and require every event to be publicly advertised.

Cash-for-access events would not be banned outright, and none of the rules would apply to provinces.

"When someone donates, we report it," Clark told CTV. "Now, the NDP are refusing to follow our lead on that. I hope they do, because I think that also offers a real level of transparency.

Clark did not disclose who attended the dinner.

 with files from CTV Vancouver
Photo: CTV

Real estate is worth more than gasoline, as petroleum giant Chevron has put five service stations up for sale in Vancouver.

That's on top of three others it listed for sale last year.

The West Georgia Street location is one of only two gas stations remaining in the city's core.

"There's intense demand for housing in the city, and with that in mind it makes sense that we market these properties in some of the most valuable parts of the city," company spokesman Adrien Byrne told CTV.

Chevron will still have 19 other locations across the city.

Sky-high property values and slim profit margins on gasoline are behind the sales.

Vancouver still has about 65 gas stations, but in the Metro Vancouver area, North Vancouver and Richmond are also losing stations. Surrey, however, has seen a 10 per cent increase in stations over the past decade.

 with files from CTV Vancouver
Photo: CTV

A Vancouver Island sea urchin farm is being called the first of its kind.

The pilot project aims to prove that a sustainable export market is viable for the spiny seafood.

The 12-week project launched off shore at Nanaimo on Friday.

Sea urchin aquaculture would be a first for Canada.

Were hoping to develop a new industry that will incorporate native species, Chris Pearce, a research scientist with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, told CTV.

The researchers aim to increase the urchins' value over wild stock by fattening them up. Urchins typically sell for about $22 per kilogram.

It would be a major export over to Asia, Japan mostly, although hopefully we could develop some smaller-scale markets within B.C., said Pearce.

Scientists will also monitor the environmental impact of the farming.

 with files from CTV Vancouver Island
Photo: CTV

As they grieve the loss of their son, a Lower Mainland couple hope some good may come from their tragedy.

The couple are speaking out about the loss of 15-month-old Macallan in an incident at a daycare Jan. 18.

Shelley Sheppard and Chris Saini are opened up about their devastating loss and vow to do what they can to prevent such a tragedy from occurring again.

"We are so overwhelmed by Mac's death. Losing him has completely shattered us. He was the love of our lives," they said in a heartbreaking letter.

Few details about what happened the day Mac died have been confirmed and the family has only said the toddler was involved in an accident at daycare.

"We know parents are scared and want to know how this could happen. Please know this: we did all the checks a diligent parent should do. We had lists of things to look for and questions to ask. We signed papers, we were given assurances and promises that made us feel like Mac would be safe and well cared for," they said.

"In the end, this was all meaningless. Mac's death was entirely preventable and we want to make sure this never happens again."

The couple said finding daycare for Mac was difficult and often parents are rushed to take the one spot available and pressured into making decisions that may not work for their family. In Mac's memory we will fight for accountable, safe and affordable daycare."

The East Vancouver home was cordoned off by police for several days after the toddler's death. On Friday, one of the landlords, Karen Kruse, told CTV News she was unaware that a daycare had been operating at the property.

The tenants only moved in back in October and have left since the tragedy, Kruse added.

It's unclear whether any charges are pending, but the Vancouver Police Department is continuing its investigation.

- with files from CTV
Photo: The Canadian Press

Calling someone a junkie was once the norm, but many people who use illicit drugs and those who treat them say the word addict is just as stigmatizing.

At the Crosstown Clinic, which provides pharmaceutical heroin treatment for people hooked on the opioid, someone has crossed out "addicts" on a notice posted by a group called the Addicts Union and substituted "patients."

Dr. Scott MacDonald, lead physician at Crosstown, said the Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders no longer lists the term addict.

"In the most recent version, I won't even say it, the A word is not even in the professional language anymore," he said in the cramped lobby of the clinic, which follows Switzerland's example in providing pure heroin as a treatment option.

"For me, it's helpful," MacDonald said of the changing language around substance use. "If I walked in and said, 'I'm an addiction specialist and you're an addict,' that sets up a dynamic."

The BC Coroners Service said 914 people fatally overdosed in British Columbia in 2016, with fentanyl being the culprit in many of the deaths. The service said 90 per cent of the people died indoors, most in private residences.

Just down the street from Crosstown at a flea market in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside, Michael Totten, 44, said his life spiralled into illicit drug use after he was prescribed the painkiller Percocet following a back injury.

Totten, who lost his home and now lives in a shelter after enduring the "nightmare" of a filthy single-room occupancy hotel, said many people driven to using drugs have suffered severe trauma and fear they'll end up dead from unwittingly taking the opioid fentanyl, so they shouldn't be defined by their behaviour.

"I think if people could hear some of the horror stories they'd be ashamed of how they have stereotyped users," Totten said as police, fire and ambulance sirens rang out in the area that was once known as skid row.

MacDonald said people who chronically use illicit drugs are now considered to have a substance-use disorder, not an addiction, which is more stigmatizing.

"They're just people with a medical problem, a chronic disease that's manageable with treatment," he said, adding clients at Crosstown have tried an average of 11 other methods in their effort to quit using drugs.

An Amsterdam-based advocacy group calls itself the Junkie Union, but only because people chose to apply the term to themselves, said Jordan Westfall, president of the Canadian Association of People Who Use Drugs.

"It can be a powerful sort of reclamation of a term but as far as an external, I think these terms, like junkie and addict, they reduce an entire life, an entire human being, into a behaviour that society has deemed problematic," he said.

"I refer to myself as a person who formerly used opioid drugs," said Westfall, adding he was a university student who came close to becoming homeless before quitting OxyContin, fentanyl and heroin to pursue his goal of getting a master's degree in public policy so he could advocate for reform to help others.

Loaded terms are often dropped to suit an evolving society, said Ruth Derksen, a former English professor who specializes in the philosophy of language at the University of British Columbia.

"Language shapes our perception and reality and the way we see the world," she said, adding the negative term "juvenile delinquents" was changed in the 1990s to "kids at risk" to describe troubled children and youth needing help.
Photo: Contributed

Richmond RCMP are investigating after a badly injured man was brought to an area hospital.

Shortly before midnight on Jan. 27, police responded to the Richmond General Hospital after a report of an unresponsive male.

When officers arrived, the male was suffering from injuries consistent with foul play, said Cpl. Dennis Hwang. Despite best efforts, he succumbed to his injuries and his death is considered a homicide.

The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) has taken over of the investigation.

This is believed to be a targeted homicide, and at this point in time, it is not believed to be related to the recent acts of violence Richmond has seen, said Hwang, adding IHIT will be working in partnership with the Richmond RCMP. No further information will be provided at this time.

Anyone with information regarding this crime is asked to contact the IHIT tipline at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or by email at [email protected]

To remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
Via Scientific American, Helen Branswell writes in STAT: Superbug Resistant to Last-Resort Antibiotic Arises in China. This will definitely be on the final exam, so you'd better read it all. Excerpt:

A wide variety of E. coli bacteria in China have developed resistance to a key antibiotic of last resort, a new study has revealed, a worrying development in the rise of so-called superbugs.

A second study released Friday, like the first published in the journal Lancet Infectious Diseases, found the superbug is still uncommon in Chinese hospitalsthough not a rare as experts might like.

The gene known as mcr-1which has the capacity to move from one bacterium to anotherwas found in about 1 percent of E. coli bacteria and 1 percent of a bacteria, known as Klebsiella pneumoniae, that can cause pneumonia, bloodstream infections, and wound infections.

Although that incidence was described as rare, it wasnt especially reassuring to Lance Price, director of the Antibiotic Resistance Action Center at George Washington University.

One percent doesnt sound huge, but for something that we didnt know about a little more than a year ago and that is clearly a recently evolved [drug resistance] element, its pretty substantial, said Price, who was not involved in the study.

The mcr-1 gene gives bacteria the ability to withstand treatment with a drug called colistin. Its an old antibiotic that wasnt used much for years because it has unpleasant side effects; other newer drugs were simply better. But with resistance to better drugs on the rise, colistin has taken on increasing importance in medicine.

In many places is it reserved for human useand even then, only when absolutely needed. But China has been using it in agriculture, to speed growth of animals raised for meat.

In November 2015 scientists reported finding this gene in China, raising alarms around the world. Within a short span of time researchers elsewhere revealed they had looked for and found the gene in their stored bacteria collections.

An alarming feature of mcr-1 is that the gene moves easily from bug to bug and also from a family like E. coli to others, like Klebsiella pneumoniae.

The authors of the new paper reporting the incidence of the gene in hospital infections are from Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, in Hangzhou.

Professor Timothy Walsh of the University of Cardiff was one of the discoverers of mcr-1 and is also an author of the paper that tracked the genes spread among E. coli bacteria.

I think the take away message is that mcr-1 is very, very widely spread among many different types of E. coli and therefore is kind of pervasive, really, throughout Chinese communities, Walsh told STAT.

And that picture could be about to get a lot worse.

China has agreed to ban use of colistin for growth promotion purposes. That policy comes into effect on April 1, Walsh said. But it also plans to license the drug for human use there.

China is making that move, Walsh said, because it realizes it is morally unacceptable to use the drug in animal feed. But theres another reason: It needs colistin to deal with the rapid spread of other superbugs in China.
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A new report from the Ministry of Health, updated on Friday (27), indicates that 555 suspected cases of yellow fever were registered. Of the total, 442 cases remain under investigation, 87 were confirmed and 26 discarded. Of the 107 reported deaths, 42 were confirmed and 65 are still investigated. The cases were in Minas Gerais, Espirito Santo, Bahia, Sao Paulo, Goias, Mato Grosso do Sul and in the Federal District, which has already ruled out all reported cases. Minas Gerais remains the state with the highest number of registrations to date.
Wacker and students from Bradley Central High School last week delivered 244 winter-weather items to The Caring Place, including nearly 100 coats and several bags of food and toiletries. In addition, Wacker donated $2,500 to the organization.

The collection drive was organized by Wacker and students from two clubs at Bradley Central High School: Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) and the National Technical Honor Society (NTHS).



When we work together, we can achieve great things and help so many, said Mary Beth Hudson, vice president and site manager at Wacker Polysilicon North America. We are very proud of our BEST partnership with Bradley Central High School and all that we have been able to accomplish together. One of the objectives of this partnership is to enhance the quality of life for our community, and by supporting the Caring Place we knew we helped to make a difference.



Bradley Central High School students and staff have huge hearts, said Donna Mitchell, NTHS advisor who helped to coordinate the drive at the school. I've watched our students work on a number of community service projects and they always give 110 percent. The students inspire me to do more. Being able to share this experience in conjunction with Wacker, our BEST Partner, has really shown them what can happen when a community comes together. We hope what we've done can help those less fortunate, because the truth is, we never know when that could be one of us.



Thank you Wacker and Bradley Central High School for demonstrating The Caring Places motto: meeting needs with love, said Toni Miles, director of organization advancement at The Caring Place. With our deepest gratitude, we thank you for coats for the Community Coat Drive, several bags of food and toiletries.



The advisors for HOSA are Drew German, Cindy Leslie and Tammy Estrada.



Bradley Central High School is Wackers Business and Education Serving Together (BEST) partner. BEST is a program of the Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce that connects a business and a selected school to enhance the quality of life for our community and provide business support for our educational programs.


Tennessee Supreme Court Justice Sharon G. Lee and retired Supreme Court Justice William "Muecke" Barker have been recognized as part of University of Tennessee's Top 100 Distinguished Alumni. The recognition comes as The Tennessee Alumnus magazine celebrates its 100th continuous year of publication by selecting 100 illustrious graduates to feature in three commemorative issues.

Justice Lee received her undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Tennessee. She was appointed to the Supreme Court in October 2008, was elected in 2010 and 2014, and served as Chief Justice from 2014-2016. She engaged in the private practice of law in Madisonville from 1978-2004, during which time she served as Attorney for Monroe County, as City Judge for Madisonville, and City Attorney for Madisonville and Vonore. She was appointed to the Court of Appeals in 2004, and elected in 2004 and 2006.

Former Justice Barker received his undergraduate degree at the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga. In 1998, Governor Don Sundquist appointed Muecke to the Tennessee Supreme Court. He was then elected to a full eight-year term and again in 2006. In 2005, he was unanimously chosen by his colleagues to become Chief Justice. Upon his retirement from the Supreme Court in September 2008, former Chief Justice Barker was named Appellate Judge of the Year by the Tennessee Chapter of the American Board of Trial Advocates.
One of Chicago's few black-owned banks, Seaway Bank and Trust Co., was closed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. on Friday and is being sold to State Bank of Texas of Dallas, the FDIC announced.

All 10 branches of Seaway Bank and Trust will continue to be open during normal business hours under the new ownership, the FDIC said. During the weekend, people with deposits will be able to access their money by writing checks or using ATMs or debit cards. Deposits will continue to be insured by the FDIC.

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Seaway had attempted to shore up its financial condition last August with a campaign in the community to support black-owned banks. It was part of a national movement known as "bank black," led by rapper Killer Mike. The idea is to bring jobs and investment to neighborhoods in need of support.

At the time of the campaign, Seaway Chairman Veranda Dickens said the bank had been hard hit by the housing crash, when many of the homes in south Chicago plunged in value and left people struggling to pay mortgages.

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The FDIC reported Friday that the bank had about $361.2 million in total assets and $307 million in total deposits. In addition to assuming all of Seaway's deposits, State Bank of Texas agreed to purchase $309 million of the failed bank's assets, said the FDIC. The FDIC estimates that the cost to its deposit insurance fund will be $57.2 million.

gmarksjarvis@chicagotribune.com

twitter @gailmarksjarvis
Supporters of President Trump rally in favor of his immigration ban executive order Saturday at Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)

President Trump's executive order suspending refugee arrivals and banning entry to the U.S. from seven Muslim-majority countries spawned chaos and consternation across the globe Saturday, stranding unwitting travelers, prompting passionate debate over American values and igniting a fierce legal pushback that yielded early court victories for the president's opponents.

The abrupt ban ensnared people from all walks of life who were caught in transit or expecting to soon return to the U.S.  not only refugees but students on a break from studies, business travelers and scientists, tourists and concert musicians, even the bereaved who had gone home for funerals.

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Of all the directives issued during a first jolting week of Trump's presidency, it was this one that reverberated most powerfully in the outside world. Trump and his team insisted the order was not intended to target Islam and its followers, but the hashtag #muslimban trended, and many Muslims both in America and abroad said they viewed the measure as a broadly conceived and stinging exclusion.

Capping a day of high-stakes drama, a federal judge in New York, Ann M. Donnelly, ordered a halt to deportations of travelers who arrived at airports with valid visas to enter the U.S., saying that sending them back to the affected countries could cause them "irreparable harm." But she did not rule on the legality of the executive order, nor did she say that others who have not yet arrived in the U.S. can be allowed to proceed.

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Opponents of the president's directive vowed to seek a wider court win. Lawyers from groups including the American Civil Liberties Union said they intended to press ahead with efforts to overturn the president's overall order on constitutional grounds. And they rejoiced at their early victory.

"Clearly the judge understood the possibility for irreparable harm to hundreds of immigrants and lawful visitors to this country," said ACLU Executive Director Anthony Romero. "On week one, Donald Trump suffered his first loss in court."

In a separate and more limited ruling, a federal judge in Virginia ordered a weeklong stay against removing people with permanent U.S. residency who had been detained under the presidential order at Washington Dulles International Airport.

As the directive's effects spread, thousands staged spontaneous protests against refugee detention at airports across the country, including in Los Angeles and San Francisco. At New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport, demonstrators waved signs and read from the famous Emma Lazarus poem inscribed in the Statue of Liberty.

At more than a dozen airports, including Los Angeles, Newark, Boston, Dallas, Chicago and Atlanta, immigration attorneys stepped up in droves to offer free services to those detained. "A lot of tears and emotion here," said Hassan Ahmad, a lawyer from northern Virginia who hustled to Dulles airport.

The New York order appeared to affect the 100 to 200 people who were detained in transit to the United States. While the order will prevent them from being sent home, it was less clear whether they will have to remain in detention while their asylum cases are being decided.

One of the two detained Iraqis named in the case, Hameed Khalid Darweesh, was an interpreter who had worked on behalf of the U.S. government. Freed after 19 hours in custody, he wept as he spoke to reporters, thanking supporters and calling America "the land of freedom, the land of rights."

The groups bringing the legal challenge, who also included the International Refugee Assistance Project and the National Immigration Law Center, said a separate motion sets the stage for a larger action involving other would-be refugees, visitors and immigrants stopped at other ports of entry.

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Arab American advocacy groups also were reacting to the new order, warning that it was disrupting travel all over the world.

"We see complete chaos in the way this has been implemented," Abed A. Ayoub, legal and policy director for the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee, said in a conference call with reporters.

The directive, he said, had caught up not only desperate refugees who had thought themselves within a hairsbreadth of safety, but many more with already established lives, homes and families in the United States. "This order needs to be rescinded," he said.

In another legal challenge, the Council on American-Islamic Relations said it would file a federal lawsuit on behalf of more than 20 individuals challenging the order. The suit, to be filed Monday in U.S. District Court in Virginia, argues that the executive order is unconstitutional because of its apparent aim of singling out Muslims.

"There is no evidence that refugees  the most thoroughly vetted of all people entering our nation  are a threat to national security," the group's national litigation director, Lena F. Masri, said in a statement. "This is an order that is based on bigotry, not reality."

The order, signed Friday by Trump during a visit to the Pentagon, suspends all refugee entries for 120 days. In addition, it indefinitely blocks Syrian refugees and bars entry to the U.S. for 90 days for those traveling from seven Muslim-majority countries: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

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Prominent Muslim figures raised their voices in opposition to the temporary refugee ban, saying children would be among those suffering the most from it.

Nobel Peace laureate Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani schoolgirl who was shot by the Taliban, said in a statement that she was "heartbroken" that Trump was closing the door on "children, mothers and fathers fleeing violence and war."

On Saturday, the Department of Homeland Security said the travel ban also covered holders of green cards, who are authorized to live and work in the U.S. Some reports have put the number of such permanent residents from the affected countries as high as half a million.

An administration official said that current green card holders from the affected countries would be allowed to remain in the U.S.  but that those caught outside the country at the time of the ban's imposition would have to be allowed back in on a case-by-case basis. Those with business overseas will have to meet beforehand with a consular official.

The measure's scope was also widened by a State Department announcement that dual nationals from the seven affected countries who also held passports from third countries such as Britain or Canada could be blocked  in effect denying U.S. entry to citizens of closely allied nations.

As the measure's far-reaching impact became clear, and the airport chaos mounted throughout the day, Trump denied it was a "Muslim ban" and said the process was going smoothly. "We were totally prepared," he told reporters in the Oval Office. "It's working out very nicely, and we're going to have a very, very strict ban."

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The move has hit the technology industry, which employs thousands of foreign-born workers, many from Muslim-majority countries. Google Chief Executive Sundar Pichai on Friday slammed Trump's executive order in a memo to employees, saying about 100 employees were affected, and advising those traveling abroad to reach out to the company's immigration teams for assistance.

Investors and start-up employees are worried as well. Tech workers from countries such as Egypt and Jordan fear the list could soon expand to include their countries.

The entertainment world felt repercussions, too. It's uncertain whether Iranian filmmaker and Oscar nominee Asghar Farhadi will be able to attend next month's Academy Awards ceremony, though there are artistic waivers to the ban.

Relatives wondered when they would see loved ones again. Iranian American Milad Sharifpour, a physician at Emory University in Atlanta, was worried for his brother, Ali Reza, a green card holder who was in Tehran visiting family when the directive took effect. "I am sad, I'm upset, and I feel very frustrated," Sharifpour said.

Many feared that what they intended as temporary trips abroad could become prolonged ordeals. A Syrian clarinetist who lives in New York and holds permanent U.S. residency was in the Lebanese capital, Beirut, for a concert when the order took effect.

It left him unsure whether he would be able to go back to his Brooklyn apartment, he said, "let alone all the concerts and residencies I have in the U.S. in the coming few months."

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He asked not to be identified, because he will soon be trying to return to the U.S.

"I am not sure how to describe how I feel," he said. "It is certainly not about me; it is about so many individuals whose lives were deeply affected."

[ Are you an immigrant? We want to hear your story  ]

The United Nations human rights agency issued a statement calling the long-standing U.S. refugee resettlement program "one of the most important in the world." It called on the Trump administration to ensure the U.S. "will continue its strong leadership role and long tradition of protecting those who are fleeing conflict and persecution."

"We strongly believe that refugees should receive equal treatment for protection and assistance, and opportunities for resettlement, regardless of their religion, nationality or race," the group said.

Across the United States, refugee advocates scrambled to ascertain the status of those who were already en route or about to leave when the order came down. A total of 30 refugees were scheduled to arrive in Atlanta next week from Somalia, Afghanistan, Myanmar and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

All had gone through months of security checks.

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"This is unprecedented," said J.D. McCrary, executive director of the International Rescue Committee's Atlanta office. "I'm not familiar with anything like this ever happening on such a mass scale in the entire history of this program. Slamming the door on those fleeing persecution is deeply un-American."

In Congress, reaction to the immigration chaos tended to break down along party lines, with vociferous criticism from Democrats while Republicans largely remained silent.

California Sen. Dianne Feinstein said Trump had chosen a "dark path," while both Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer of New York and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi of San Francisco said the Statue of Liberty would have wept.

One of the few Republicans to speak out against the directive was Sen. Ben Sasse of Nebraska, who said the order could play into the hands of jihadist groups by being excessively sweeping in nature.

"While not technically a Muslim ban, this order is too broad," Sasse said in a statement.

Airports overseas and in the U.S. found themselves at ground zero for the spreading chaos. Five members of one Iraqi family, along with a Yemeni, were prevented from boarding flights in Cairo.

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At the Frankfurt airport in Germany, a major hub for travel from the Middle East and onward to Europe and the U.S., more were stranded. A German radio network quoted federal police as saying that 20 people from all seven countries on the list were stuck in the airport's transit zone, unable to board flights for the U.S.

In Atlanta, a growing cluster of family members and lawyers gathered Saturday at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport after at least five permanent U.S. residents who had traveled to Iran on vacation were detained by federal immigration officials.

Mansour Kenareh, 55, an Iranian software engineer who lives in Suwanee, Ga., said his brother-in law, his wife and their 10-year-old child had been detained after returning from a vacation in Tehran to visit family.

"They have green cards, they have bank accounts, they have a house here," Kenareh said as he paced the arrivals hall of the international terminal after an unfruitful visit to a Customs and Border Protection office. Officials, he said, had detained the family for more than five hours, even though they had lived legally in the U.S. for more than a year.

Sarah Owings, an immigration attorney, said that she had not been allowed to meet with the detained immigrants at the Atlanta airport.

"These are people who live here; they have houses, they have dogs, cars," Owings said. "This should not be happening. They can't send back a permanent resident without a hearing."

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Late Saturday, Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed said that all 11 people who were detained at the airport had been cleared and released.

In Europe, there was blowback from U.S. allies, who have absorbed a wave of refugees over the last two years and are already deeply unhappy with Trump for disparaging the NATO alliance and predicting the breakup of the European Union.

"When he rejects the arrival of refugees while Europe has done its duty, we should respond to him," said French President Francois Hollande.

German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel, well aware of Trump's evangelical Christian base of support, said pointedly, "'Love thy neighbor' is part of this tradition, the act of helping others."

On social media, users bemoaned what they said was a blow to what remained of the world's respect for American ideals.

"Fascism USA 2017," tweeted Mona Eltahawy, an Egyptian American author and activist.

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The prospect of reciprocal measures was raised almost immediately  a factor that could potentially affect Americans including aid workers, tourists and business travelers. Iran's Foreign Ministry, condemning Trump's order, said Saturday that Iran "reserves the right of reciprocity," official outlets reported.

Trump's move could also dampen hopes for negotiating the release of U.S. citizens held in any of the affected countries. Several Americans of Iranian descent are imprisoned in Iran on spy charges.

King reported from Washington, Demick from New York and Hennessy-Fiske from Houston. Times staff writers Brian Bennett and Lisa Mascaro in Washington, Melissa Etehad and Kurtis Lee in Los Angeles, Tracy Lien in San Francisco, Shashank Bengali in Mumbai, India, and special correspondents Ramin Mostaghim in Tehran, Nabih Bulos in Beirut and Erik Kirschbaum in Berlin contributed to this report.

laura.king@latimes.com

Twitter: @laurakingLAT

barbara.demick@latimes.com

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Twitter: @BarbaraDemick

molly.hennessy-fiske@latimes.com

Twitter: @mollyhf

ALSO

Unknown number of U.S. permanent residents stuck overseas as a result of Trump's immigration ban

Outpouring of criticism over Trump's refugee ban from Democrats in Congress as GOP stays silent

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As Trump bans Syrian refugees, a look back at when California welcomed 50,000 displaced people

UPDATES:

10:35 p.m.: This story was updated with details from the Atlanta airport.

9:00 p.m.: This story was updated with additional details about the stay and another court ruling.

7:35 p.m.: This story was updated with a federal judge issuing an emergency stay.

3:18 p.m.: This story was updated with additional reaction from affected families and communities.

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12:30 p.m.: This story was updated with additional reaction from officials and family members of those prevented from boarding flights.

10:25 a.m.: This story was updated with additional information from the Department of Homeland Security, and reaction from the high-tech industry and the government in Iran.

9:30 a.m.: This story was updated with additional comments from Arab American groups.

This story was originally published at 9:10 a.m.
What happens when a Democrat in the Illinois House won't kneel before Boss Madigan?

Punishment, isolation and mockery.

State Rep. Scott Drury, of Highwood, is paying for not voting for Madigan for speaker of the house, where Madigan has reigned for decades.

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The former federal prosecutor has been stripped of his position on a judiciary committee. His ethics legislation, he understands, will die. And he's been mocked by Madigan's smarmier mouthpieces.

"I'm being punished, it's fair to say," Drury told me in an extensive interview on my podcast, "The Chicago Way," on WGN-AM.

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"It's a message," he said.

And what is Madigan's message?

"Don't do what Drury did. Don't go against me."

Drury said he'd do it again. Last week, he also voted against Madigan on House rules dictating how legislation moves through that chamber.

Madigan has spent decades killing legislation  including ethics reforms  by stopping bills from hitting the floor for a vote.

"He has accumulated a massive amount of power in Illinois," Drury said of Madigan, "but you can only accumulate that if people let you have it. That's the problem. The state is not a really a representative democracy anymore. You have too few people making too many big decisions."

Every two years, Illinois Democrats seeking editorial endorsements or publicity for their state representative campaigns do a pathetic little dance.

It's a dance put on for the chumbolones of Illinois, people like you and me who are still here, paying taxes, in this economic wasteland of a state.

When they're seeking voter support, House Democrats say they're independent.

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By this they mean independent of Boss Madigan, speaker of the Illinois House, first of his name and Khan of Madiganistan, the cartographer of all the political maps, maker of judges from the state Supreme Court on down, lord of tax assessors and keeper of a whopping personal fortune from his lucrative tax reduction legal practice.

Listening to them talk of independence, you almost feel that they have integrity and they don't think they should be expected to act like yappy little circus dogs doing tricks for treats.

Yet when the time comes to install the speaker, they flop to their knees, touch their foreheads to the floor, support him for speaker and let the state slide deeper into the muck.

Once Drury made his intentions clear, he was portrayed as a tool of Madigan's enemy, Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner.

He didn't vote for Madigan. He voted "present." And he paid for it.

Madigan passed out expensive engraved clocks to the Democrats. Drury didn't get one. He mentioned that in a news release, and much was made of it, as if he were upset that he didn't get a fancy clock.

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He doesn't need a Madigan clock.

By tradition, three-term House representatives receive committee leadership positions. Drury was stripped from his post on the judiciary committee. You'd think a good government would recognize the value of having an experienced prosecutor, one who hunted corruption, in a leadership post.

A Madigan spokesman told the Tribune that other Democrats found Drury "increasingly difficult to work with."

Yet if Madigan told them to kiss Drury on the forehead, sing Italian love songs and fix him sausage and peppers, they'd do that, too.

Since he'd been described by Madigan mouthpieces and others as a tool of Rauner's, why didn't he switch parties and vote for Republican House Minority Leader Jim Durkin for speaker?

"Because I'm not a tool of Gov. Rauner and I'm not a Republican," he said. "I'm a Democrat  based on the feedback we're getting that there are a lot of Democrats in the state of Illinois who agree with what I'm doing.

"I'm not taking an unpopular position. Unpopular in Springfield, absolutely, but unpopular statewide? Absolutely not," he said.

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Yet he couldn't even get state Sen. Julie Morrison from his same north suburban region to offer public encouragement.

"I only needed eight votes to tie up the speakership vote and send it to a runoff, and they weren't there," Drury said. "To give you an example of how hard it was to find votes, I reached out to my state senator.  I said to her, 'Will you send out a message saying that you support or encourage my run for speaker of the house?' I got a text back: 'I don't feel comfortable getting involved.'"

I called state Sen. Morrison, the Deerfield Democrat, on Friday and asked her about it. She acknowledged she and Drury had talked.

"I told him it was not my role to get involved in House politics," Morrison told me. "I try to stay on my side of the rotunda. I said I would give it some thought, and I texted back, and said, 'No.'"

Yet wasn't her silence a tacit endorsement of Boss Madigan rule?

"Absolutely not," she said. "I've worked cooperatively with Scott. I'm not going to get involved with Madigan and House politics."

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I asked if her district relished Boss Madigan's power.

"A few of my colleagues can talk about ward bosses and aldermen, but I don't," Morrison said. "And people do expect independence in my district."

Of course they do. And Drury's fight isn't hers.

But from the North Shore all the way to the Southwest Side where Madigan lives, from Chicago to Springfield and beyond, it's all The Chicago Way.

And Mike Madigan is the boss.

Listen to "The Chicago Way" podcast with John Kass and WGN's Jeff Carlin here: www.wgnradio.com/category/wgn-plus/thechicagoway.

jskass@chicagotribune.com Twitter @John_Kass
Chicago has had relatively little snow and ice to start 2017. (Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune)

Just for fun, and almost news-free, here are 9 things I've liked lately.

1. Cleaning out drawers

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Drawers are where we stash things out of view or put them for safekeeping, which means they're full of things we don't remember and ones we'll never need.

In my recent drawer-cleaning frenzy, I've marveled at the reproductive capacities of inanimate objects like rubber bands, screws, business cards, old phone cords and rolls of tape.

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Where did they come from? How do they multiply? Half a dozen toothbrush covers? I don't even use toothbrush covers.

When the world is spinning out of order, as it usually is, there's therapeutic benefit to ordering a drawer.

2. "The Underground Railroad" by Colson Whitehead

It won the 2016 National Book Award. Oprah picked it for her book club. Still, I was hesitant to read this novel, a story of slavery in which the underground railroad, a network of people who helped fugitive slaves, is literally a railroad. Sounded a little too fantastical for my fact-loving mind.

But, nudged by a friend, I began to read it and once I started I couldn't stop. It's the story of a young slave, Cora, who escapes her Georgia plantation, gets on the underground railroad and at every stop where she disembarks  South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, northward  discovers something new about the world and being black in it.

Some characters verge on cartoonish, but the language is stunningly evocative and efficient. I felt I'd traveled back in time and through places that felt real. By the end, I had a lump in my throat and yearned for a sequel.

3. No ice

I can't remember a Chicago January with as little ice on the sidewalks. It may not be good for the planet but it's nice for city walkers.

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4. "The Night Manager," available on Amazon Prime

Tom Hiddleston gave a well-intentioned but cringe-worthy acceptance speech at the Golden Globes after he won a best actor award for his performance in this six-part BBC miniseries . His fumble doesn't make this espionage tale, based on a John le Carre novel, any less entertaining.

Hiddleston plays a luxury-hotel night manager who is roped into spying on an amoral arms dealer played by the fabulously villainous Hugh Laurie (aka "House"). Olivia Colman plays the tough but tender head spy. She and Laurie also won Golden Globes.

The scenery  Egypt, England, Switzerland, Spain, the Syrian border  is as riveting as the actors are.

5. The yoga room at Midway Airport

"Yoga" and "airport" aren't natural companions, which is exactly why this peaceful little room, just off a side hall near the security line, is such a great place. It feels crowded with more than six people, but the floors are bamboo, the music is unobtrusive and there are a few mats available. It's an incentive to arrive early for a flight.

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6. "Indivisible" on NPR

It's a new radio call-in show dedicated to exploring politics and society in the first 100 days of Donald Trump's presidency. Each of the four nights (Monday through Thursday) has a different host. Tuesdays, for example, are steered by Brian Lehrer of WNYC. Wednesdays feature Charlie Sykes, known as "the contrarian conservative."

In its debut week, I was impressed by the show's balanced, nuanced, calm discussion of our political differences. It airs at 7 p.m. on WBEZ in Chicago and is available online.

7. Hob Nob 2013 pinot noir

I discovered this simple but pleasant red wine in a restaurant when I asked the server, "What's good but not too pricey?" It's exactly that, no more, no less. I found it at Binny's for $10.99 but have also seen it in supermarkets.

8. "A-Sides" by Michael Miles

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Michael's a Chicago musician known as one of the country's best banjo players. He also plays guitar, and that's what's featured in this recent release. It's a mellow, catchy instrumental collection of 12 songs that range from jazz standards to soul classics to Carol King's "Tapestry."

He's joined by other musicians, including the well-known fiddler Darol Anger. His take on Stephen Sondheim's "Send in the Clowns," which features Don Jacobs on clarinet, has become my favorite version of that great song.

Full disclosure: For several years, Michael was part of the Songs of Good Cheer holiday band that Eric Zorn and I host annually at the Old Town School of Folk Music.

The album is available on CD or download here: http://www.cdbaby.com/Artist/MichaelJMiles

9. "Sometimes" by Sheenagh Pugh

My sister-in-law told me this is her favorite poem lately, one she sends as encouragement to friends in distress. It's a reminder that things don't always go from bad to worse.

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You can find the full poem via Google or in Garrison Keillor's compilation "Good Poems." Here's the last stanza:

Sometimes our best efforts do not go

amiss; sometimes we do as we meant to.

The sun will sometimes melt a field of sorrow

that seemed hard frozen: may it happen for you.

mschmich@chicagotribune.com
The former home of Emmett Till and his mother, Mamie Till-Mobley, on May 15, 2022, on the South Side of Chicago. (Erin Hooley / Chicago Tribune)

NEW YORK  The woman at the center of the trial of Emmett Till's alleged killers has acknowledged that she falsely testified he made physical and verbal threats, according to a new book.

Historian Timothy B. Tyson told The Associated Press on Saturday that Carolyn Donham broke her long public silence in an interview with him in 2008. His book, "The Blood of Emmett Till," comes out next week.

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"She told me that 'Nothing that boy did could ever justify what happened to him,'" said Tyson, a Duke University research scholar whose previous books include "Blood Done Sign My Name" and "Radio Free Dixie."

Emmett Till was a 14-year-old black tortured and killed in 1955 in Mississippi after allegedly whistling at a white woman, then known as Carolyn Bryant.

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His murder became national news, was a galvanizing event in the civil rights movement and has been the subject of numerous books and movies. During the trial, Bryant said that he had grabbed her, and, in profane terms, bragged about his history with white woman. The jury was not present when she testified.

Donham's then-husband, Roy Bryant, and his half-brother, J.W. Milam, were acquitted by the all-white jury. Both men, who later told Look magazine they did murder Till, have since died. Milam's widow, Juanita Milam, would later tell the FBI she believed that Carolyn Bryant had fabricated her story. Juanita Milam died in 2014. The Justice Department re-examined the case a decade ago, but no one was indicted as a murderer or an accomplice.

On Saturday, the maker of a documentary on Till said he had long been sure that Bryant's story was false.

"His mother had mentioned that Emmett had a speech impediment and that the things Bryant claimed he was saying he could not have said easily," said Keith Beauchamp, whose "The Untold Story of Emmett Till" came out in 2005.

Tyson said that he spoke with Donham after her daughter-in-law, Marsha Bryant, contacted him. Bryant had read "Blood Done Sign My Name," about a racist murder during his childhood in Oxford, North Carolina, and invited Tyson to meet with her and Donham.

Tyson said he and Donham had two conversations, both lasting 2-3 hours, and that he planned at the time to place the material in the archives at the University of North Carolina. Asked why he waited so long to publicize his findings, he responded that historians think in different terms than do journalists.

"I'm more interested in what speaks to the ages than in what is the latest media thing," he said.

He added that he wasn't sure whether Donham knew about the book. He said he had fallen out of touch with the family and that when he last spoke with Bryant, a few years ago, she said Donham was in poor health.

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Till was a fun-loving teenager from Chicago visiting the Mississippi Delta and helping out on his great-uncle Mose Wright's farm. On Aug. 24, 1955, Till and some other kids drove to a local store, Bryant's, for refreshments. At Bryant's, some of the kids stayed on the porch, watching a game of checkers, while the others filed inside to buy bubble gum and sodas. Carolyn Bryant, the 21-year-old wife of proprietor Roy Bryant, was behind the counter.

Accounts of what happened next differ.

Roy Bryant, left, and John W. Milam during their trial in Sumner, Miss., Sept. 23, 1955. Acquitted by an all-white jury, the two men would eventually admit to the murder of Emmett Till after being paid for their story by Look magazine. (AP)

Mrs. Bryant claimed Emmett bragged about dating white women up north. She said he grabbed her and asked her, "How about a date, baby?" Simeon Wright, his cousin, heard none of this. But there is no doubt about what he heard when they left the store, he told the AP in 2005.

Standing on the front porch, Emmett let out a wolf whistle.

Carolyn Donham's whereabouts have long been a mystery, but North Carolina voter rolls list a Carolyn Holloway Donham. Holloway is her maiden name.

The address is for a green, split-level home in Raleigh at the mouth of a neat cul-de-sac just two turns off a busy four-lane thoroughfare. The well-tended house has burnt-orange shutters and a front-facing brick chimney decorated with a large metal sunburst. Orange flags emblazed with the word "Google" dot the lawn.

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A woman, who appeared to be of late middle age, and a small barking dog appeared at the front door. When a reporter asked if this was the Bryant family home, the woman replied, "Yes."

When asked if Carolyn Donham was at home, the woman replied, "She's not available."

At first, she refused to accept a business card, but relented after hearing about the upcoming book.

The Emmett Till Legacy Foundation has shared news reports about the book on Instagram and asked if Donham would have the "decency and courage" to speak with Till's relatives.

Associated Press
Chicago police investigate the scene where sixpeople were wounded in a shooting near the corner ofSt. Lawrence and 75th Street on Jan. 25, 2017. (Eric Clark / for the Chicago Tribune)

Two days after President Donald Trump told a national television audience that Mayor Rahm Emanuel needed to "smarten up and toughen up" on fighting gun violence, the mayor held a carefully orchestrated news conference to discuss Chicago's "smart-policing strategy."

As Emanuel summoned a swarm of cameras to the 7th District police station in Englewood on Friday to highlight new police cameras and gunshot tracking technology, sources said the Police Department's top brass was busy carrying out an order to flood the city's most violent neighborhoods with extra officers this weekend.

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In a Tuesday night tweet in which he said he "will send in the Feds!" if the city doesn't fix its violent crime problems, Trump cited Chicago Tribune crime data that showed January homicides up 24 percent compared with 2016, a year marred by the highest number of killings in two decades. Trump again criticized Emanuel and the city's handling of gun violence in his first television interview as president Wednesday night, describing Chicago's rampant shootings as "horrible carnage" and "a problem that is very easily fixable."

Now, hundreds of additional Chicago police officers assigned to tactical, gang, saturation and mission teams have had their regular days off canceled from Friday through Sunday, according to police sources familiar with the change that was announced during a meeting at police headquarters. The city's beat officers also were given the option of earning overtime by working weekend days off, the sources said.

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Adding so many officers to the street on their day off is more typical during hot summer months or special occasions such as when the president is visiting the city; is unusual for a cold-weather month such as January. This month has been marked by weekends with dozens of shootings, including 54 people shot last weekend alone.

Through Thursday, there had been 42 homicides so far with five days left in the month. In January 2016, there were 50 homicides. If the number of killings for January were to come in lower than last year, that would allow Emanuel to try to counter Trump's narrative of this year being off to an even worse start.

Chicago police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said the staffing adjustment was unrelated to recent attention paid to Chicago's gun violence by the Republican president.

The mayor did not bring up the weekend staffing increase at his Friday news conference, instead focusing on technological advances the department is making in its two most violent police districts on the South and West sides  including the expansion of a gunshot detection system and crime cameras on the street along with new surveillance centers and new cellphones with software to instantly inform officers of shootings.

Members of the Chicago Police Department work the scene where an offender was shot by the police after initially shooting at an officer on the 4500 block of West Washington Monday, Nov. 28, 2016 in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune)

The mayor's announcement came to an abrupt end when police Superintendent Eddie Johnson grew faint and had to be helped to a chair, leading officers to call paramedics and escort reporters out of the room. On Friday night, Johnson said he had become lightheaded earlier in the day after taking blood pressure medication on an empty stomach, but he confirmed he's had a kidney disease for more than 30 years and is on a list waiting for a transplant.

While Johnson's health episode Friday came as a surprise, the rest of Emanuel's policing message for the day was scripted for public consumption.

Before Emanuel's arrival at the Englewood district, six police officers already were stationed at computers in a small, windowless room that featured four large flat-screen TVs on the wall. While a sign proclaimed the spot as a "viewing room," the Police Department's brass and the mayor's office called it the "Strategic Decision Support Center," which is staffed by a district intelligence officer who will incorporate the new technology with offender criminal history and crime data.

"The mayor is 10 minutes out, so if everyone could stage and get ready, all right? No pressure," Jonathan Lewin, CPD's deputy chief of bureau support services, told the room. "I need the officers who are going to meet the mayor in the lobby."

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About 15 minutes later, Emanuel arrived through the station's back door and greeted the officers who were staffing the new "nerve center," as the mayor called it. "I'll be back," he told them. "They want me to do something."

Emanuel then made his way to the lobby, where 17 television cameras were recording as Emanuel and Johnson greeted the four officers  one each African-American, Asian, Latino and white  who had been waiting to participate in the prearranged shot.

After that photo op, the crush of cameras followed Emanuel into the tiny surveillance room, where Lewin walked Emanuel through the new technology as officers remotely zoomed in street cameras on license plates and explained how the gunshot tracking technology would allow officers to respond to a scene five minutes faster than from a 911 call.

"You can control the cameras from here?" Emanuel asked. "Yes," Lewin responded. "This is real time?" the mayor inquired. "Yes," was the answer again.

Much of what was discussed was difficult to hear, as the Police Department's media handlers barked orders to the TV photographers, who were being directed in and out of the room in shifts to record Emanuel's interest in the effort.

Chicago police Superintendent Eddie Johnson and commanders tout advances in technology that could help officers pinpoint gunfire instantly as part of their newest efforts to combat gun violence plaguing the city. (Zbigniew Bzdak/Chicago Tribune) (Zbigniew Bzdak/Chicago Tribune/Chicago Tribune)

"Which screen are you looking at?" a photographer asked the mayor at one point.

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"The one on the far left," Emanuel responded, pointing to a map of the 7th District that had labels for territory covered by various gangs, including the Gangster Disciples, Conservative Vice Lords, Mickey Cobras, Black P Stones, Black Disciples and Latin Kings. A second screen showed a "heat map of homicides." A third was streaming live street surveillance footage.

As Lewin explained how all the technologies eventually will be merged into one cohesive software system, Emanuel stopped him. "Do that again for me," the mayor said as the cameras rolled. "I'm slow."

Once Lewin finished his presentation, Emanuel headed upstairs to the district's roll call room, where he lauded the new technology, which he's paying for with money from unclaimed property tax rebates aimed at easing the pain from the record property tax increase he and aldermen approved.

"This allows our police officers to be all that much smarter and more effective in using technology and command ability to make sure people are in the right place at the right time to prevent a shooting in the first place," Emanuel said.

In a news release, Emanuel's office described the technology as part of the city's "smart-policing strategy," a term that had not been used in previous mayor's office announcements.

Less than 48 hours earlier, Trump had called Emanuel out on needing to run a smarter policing effort.

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"It has been going on for years," Trump said of Chicago's rash of shootings and homicides. "So, all I'm saying is, to the mayor, who came up to my office recently, I say you have to smarten up and you have to toughen up, because you can't let that happen. That's a war zone. I want them to straighten out the problem. It's a big problem."

At the news conference, Emanuel was asked if there "was any coincidence" that his Friday announcement came after Trump's recent criticism.

"You don't put something like this together overnight," Emanuel replied. "It's about what's right for the future, not about any current event."

Chicago Tribune's Rosemary Regina Sobol contributed.

bruthhart@chicagotribune.com

jgorner@chicagotribune.com

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Via The New York Times, an editorial that healthcare workers around the world should heed: Mr. Trumps Gag Rule Will Harm Global Health. The full editorial, with my bolding:

With a single memorandum, President Trump may well have made it harder for health workers around the world to fight cancer, H.I.V., Zika and Ebola. The memorandum, signed on Monday, reinstates and expands a policy barring health organizations abroad, many of which provide an array of services, from receiving federal funds if they even talk to women about abortion as a method of family planning.

The so-called Mexico City policy, also known as the global gag rule, was established by President Ronald Reagan in 1984, and has since been supported by every Republican president and opposed by every Democratic one; Barack Obama renounced it in 2009. Mr. Trump has not only reinstated it but greatly broadened its impact.

In the past, the policy has applied only to international family-planning funds, which currently total around $600 million. Mr. Trumps memorandum, however, would apply the policy to global health assistance furnished by all departments or agencies.

Although reproductive health groups are still studying the memorandum, this language would appear to apply to any international health funding, around $9 billion, used to fight malaria, H.I.V., Zika, Ebola and many other global health threats. This would seem to go well beyond family-planning aid from the Agency for International Development and the State Department, to also include money from all American governmental agencies and departments.

Federal funding for abortions abroad has been banned since 1973, except in cases of rape, incest or a threat to the mothers life. Mr. Trumps gag rule goes far beyond the 1973 ban to bar funding to all organizations that provide abortion or abortion referrals, even if they do so with their own funds and even if abortion is not the focus of their work.

By cutting off family-planning funds to reproductive health care providers, the gag rule eliminated contraceptive and maternal health services to countless women around the world. After losing funding during the Bush administration, a group known as Family Health Options Kenya had to close six clinics, leaving 9,000 people with little access to health care.

Perversely, the gag rule appears to have led to an increase in abortions, which its proponents obviously did not intend, and would be likely to do so in the future. In one 2011 study, African countries that relied heavily on aid from the United States experienced increased abortion rates when the policy was in effect, relative to countries that got less funding from the United States.

The policy will also limit access to providers of safe abortions. Under the Bush-era policy, the International Planned Parenthood Association of Ghana reported a 50 percent increase in the number of women needing treatment following unsafe abortions.

Though the potential damage from Mr. Trumps memorandum is still being tallied up, the International Planned Parenthood Federation calculates that it may lose $100 million over four years, leading to reductions in services in at least 30 countries. President Trumps decision will limit health organizations ability to fight disease and promote reproductive health, and other governments will have to pitch in to help.

On Wednesday, the Dutch government announced plans to establish an international fund to help fill the gap left by the reinstatement of the policy, paying for contraception, abortion and education for women. Representative Nita Lowey, Democrat of New York, and Senator Jeanne Shaheen, Democrat of New Hampshire, have introduced bills that would permanently repeal the Mexico City policy.

Neither, regrettably, is likely to pass.
Chicago police have suspended an officer who was caught on video throwing a cup of coffee at a passing motorcyclist who shouted at him near a downtown intersection, officials said.

The incident happened Jan. 20 and city officials learned about it Monday after news stations obtained the video and sent it to the department's communications team, police said.

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The recording, posted by a Facebook group called Chicago United Riders, appears to have been taken from a helmet camera and shows a group of bikers riding east on Hubbard Street toward State Street. The leader of the pack, in front of the camera, is riding a wheelie  on his back wheel only.

The rider taking the footage raises his left hand and shouts something indiscernible at an officer, who is standing on the other side of a solid yellow line and appears to be waiting to cross the street. The officer then throws a cup of coffee underhand at the rider.

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A police spokesman confirmed Friday that the police officer, Robert Markvart, has accepted a five-day suspension.

Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson said earlier this week he could not defend the officer's actions.

"We expect every officer to be professional (and) treat people fairly and responsibly," Johnson said. "So to that end we'll have an investigation, an investigation has been opened up, and when it comes down to it, that officer will be held accountable and will be disciplined appropriately."

Chicago Tribune's Elyssa Cherney and Peter Matuszak contributed.

gpratt@chicagotribune.com

Twitter @royalpratt
RITZVILLE, Wash.  A Chicago man will be sentenced to 30 years in prison for murdering his girlfriend on Interstate 90 in eastern Washington state front of their 3-year-old son.

The Columbia Basin Herald reported Thursday that 34-year-old Manuel Argomaniz-Camargo was sentenced after previously pleading guilty to first-degree murder and possession of methamphetamine.

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Argomaniz-Camargo admitted to bludgeoning Ana Montelongo Garcia with a hammer and stabbing her with a screwdriver on I-90 near Ritzville in March 2016.

According to court documents, Argomaniz-Camargo, Garcia and their young son left the Chicago area on a cross-country trip to Washington. Argomaniz-Camargo admitted to investigators that he ingested meth and cocaine to help him stay awake to drive. When they were near Ritzville, Argomaniz-Camargo forced Garcia out of the car, accused her of witchcraft and struck her with a hammer.

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Huda Hidar, who fled war-torn Syria with her daughter and four sons last summer, discusses her worries that the new restrictions might make it harder for other refugees like them to escape conflict in the Middle East. (Phil Velasquez/Chicago Tribune) (Phil Velasquez/Chicago Tribune/Chicago Tribune)

Chicago immigration reform advocates and Muslim leaders denounced President Donald Trump's executive order to temporarily block refugees coming to the U.S. while the government reviews screening processes, calling it an effective ban on Muslims in America.

In issuing the order Friday, which calls for a four-month halt on all refugee admissions, an indefinite ban on Syrian refugees and a temporary moratorium on immigrants from countries that don't comply with security procedures, Trump said he seeks to protect the nation from terrorist attacks. He called for a review of all screening procedures for those seeking immigrant visas to the U.S.

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"I am establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America," Trump said. "We don't want them here."

"He can call it what he wants," said Lawrence Benito, executive director of the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights. "As we see it, it's a backdoor ban on Muslims."

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CAIR (Council On American Islamic Relations) Chicago Executive Director Ahmed Rehab, activist Hoda Katebi and Dr. Mufaddal Hamadeh denounce President Trumps executive order to temporarily block refugees coming to the U.S., calling it a "draconian strategy" on Jan. 27, 2017. (Abel Uribe/Chicago Tribune) (Abel Uribe/Chicago Tribune/Chicago Tribune)

Supporters of tougher immigration policies praised the plan as a sensible safety measure that balances the interest of refugees with the country's need to prepare for a credible emerging threat.

Opponents say the order undermines the nation's reputation in the Middle East and threatens the security of Americans at home and abroad by giving extremists evidence that the U.S. alienates and discriminates against Muslims.

Locally, the volunteer group RefugeeOne had planned to welcome a family from Syria on Monday, said Alisa Wartick, an organizer for the Chicago-based group. Since November, volunteers have been working to sponsor the family, who currently live at a Turkish refugee camp.

A statement on the refugeeone.org website reads:

"We are devastated by President Trump's executive action halting the resettlement program. In the next 3 weeks, 15 families including 14 children, were scheduled to arrive at O'Hare. These refugees from the DR Congo, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Iran, Iraq, Syria and Uganda, were to be welcomed by RefugeeOne and their co-sponsors.



"Today, their hopes of rebuilding their lives in America were shattered."

Late Friday, organizers were notified that the family will not travel to America as planned, given the executive action.

"We're unsure if they will ever be allowed to come," Wartick said. "There is a complete Syrian ban."

The group had been raising money and collecting items since identifying the family, Wartick said. Last week, the family's fully furnished apartment in Skokie was finally ready.

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Now, the husband, 34, his 23-year-old wife and 16-month-old daughter will remain at the Turkish camp, where some people have been since 2013. The wife's parents and siblings have been living in Chicago since the fall, Wartick said. Her family has members who have earned college degrees.

"They were running from terrorism, they are not the people we are being told to fear," Wartick said.

"I know there are legal challenges to this executive order that is just a blanket order to target certain countries. It doesn't do what it's thought to do and that is to prevent terrorism."

It wasn't known Saturday whether any potential immigrants were being detained at O'Hare, but in New York, two men from Iraq were detained at John F. Kennedy International Airport and representatives of the ACLU filed a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of Trump's executive order.

Wartick said she said she hopes the order is found illegal and unenforceable.

"These families are real people and not who we should be scared of. They have already been through the 18- to 24-month vetting process. This is just ridiculous."

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Dr. Zaher Sahloul, a former president of the Syrian American Medical Society and the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago, came to the U.S. in 1989 to continue his medical training at the University of Illinois at Chicago, with the intention of going back. Instead he met his wife, an American citizen of Syrian origin, and began working at St. Anthony Hospital on the West Side.

Sahloul, a Syrian-born physician who lives in Burr Ridge, said of the executive order: "Every American should challenge it because it will jeopardize our own security and it's against all American values."

The order "will paint Islam as an enemy," added Sahloul, now an American citizen who has gone on two dozen medical missions to the Middle East since the start of the Syrian conflict. "Whether President Trump understands that or not, that has to be determined. It will put any American traveling in the world at risk."

The flow of foreign fighters from Iraq and Syria into other countries increases the chances of them winding up in the U.S. and becoming homegrown terrorists, said James Carafano, vice president of foreign and defense policy studies for the Heritage Foundation, a Washington-based conservative think tank.

"We all know we're looking for a needle in the haystack," said Carafano, who advised the Trump transition team on State Department and homeland security issues. "You do want to make sure your screening processes are pretty strong.  I acknowledge this might create an additional hardship for some refugees, but from a practical perspective it takes two years now. So if there's a pause or additional measures that stretch it to 100 or 200 days, it's hard to argue if you think you'll stop a terrorist attack, that it's an undue burden."

At a news conference Friday, Ahmed Rehab, executive director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations Chicago, said refugees and others seeking haven in the United States "don't choose to leave" but are forced out by persecution or violence.

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"When they are at the doors of places where they can seek mercy, compassion, life, they're turned away in many other countries, and now as well in the United States, only by a signature on paper by the president," he said. "This is not about vetting. This is about religious discrimination and codifying it into law, and as such we stand against it."

The order does allow exceptions for refugees who claim religious persecution as long as they practice a minority religion in their home country. It's unclear if the exception only applies to non-Muslims, a key point in Syria, where mostly Sunni Muslim refugees have been displaced by conflict between a regime-backed Shiite minority and Sunni rebels.

Huda Hidar, 43, fled war-torn Syria with her daughter and four sons and arrived in Evanston last summer. She worries that the new restrictions might make it harder for other refugees like them to escape the Middle East.

"We are not doing anything, not terrorism or anything. Why would he ban us?" she said through an interpreter. "We are coming to a country of safety. We want to secure our children's safety and future, most importantly, in a safe country."

Hidar's hijab covers a long, deep scar along the left side of her face, which she said was carved out by shrapnel from an airstrike in May 2013 that demolished her suburban Damascus home while she was preparing hummus in the kitchen. While in a Jordan hospital, she stayed in touch with her 18-year-old son via cellphone. Then one day, she couldn't reach him: She said she learned from a relative that her son and husband were killed in a chemical attack.

She's afraid that her four brothers, three sisters and many nieces and nephews who still live in fear in the Middle East won't be able to find refuge as her family has. She also worries that her children won't be allowed to stay in their Evanston home and schools and continue enjoying a long-sought sense of normalcy.

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"I am afraid we would have to go back," Hidar said. "I wish for the safety of my kids and for all people."

Nearly 85,000 refugees from around the world were admitted to the U.S. in fiscal year 2016, a majority of them Muslim, according to the Pew Research Center. Former Secretary of State John Kerry had projected the U.S. would accept up to 100,000 refugees in fiscal year 2017. Trump's order reduces the number of refugees the U.S. will admit this fiscal year to 50,000.

Carafano said that number is based on how many can be processed safely and efficiently. The reduction is not intended to lessen the importance of resettling refugees.

"The fact that we have a refugee program, that's a statement about who we are. It's a humanitarian gesture to show our respect for human rights and human suffering, our beliefs in being generous and loving. It's a statement of who America is," he said. "Because we do it differently or more stringently, that doesn't change that sentiment."

Benito, the advocate for refugees, acknowledged that visa procedures could benefit from a closer look, but he said halting refugee admissions while reviewing those screening procedures is unnecessary and unjust. The nation's yearslong vetting process for refugees already is one of the most rigorous, he said.

"We believe the process is working and we should be admitting more refugees, not less," Benito said.

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Sahloul said the nation's president not only should provide wise leadership when it comes to education and the economy, but also should provide moral leadership. This executive order does not meet that expectation, he said.

"Most of these refugees coming from Syria, they went through extreme violence," Sahloul said. "They witnessed family members killed by the regime or an extremist group and were displaced multiple times inside Syria and Lebanon and refugees camps. To shut the door in their faces is inhumane."

Tribune reporter Deanese Williams-Harris contributed.

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Chicago police guard the scene of a shooting involving multiple victims, including an off-duty police officer, inside a parking garage in the 1200 block of North State Street on Jan. 28, 2017, in the Gold Coast neighborhood. (Alyssa Pointer / Chicago Tribune)

An off-duty Cook County deputy was one of three people who were wounded in a shooting early Saturday in the city's Gold Coast neighborhood, officials said.

The shooting happened about 3:30 a.m. in the 1200 block of North State Street. Police did not release details about what led to the shooting.

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Sophia Ansari, spokeswoman for the Cook County sheriff's office, said an off-duty Cook County courts deputy was wounded in the shooting. He has worked for the sheriff's office for 11 years.

She did not have additional information about the deputy's involvement in the shooting, and she said the investigation was being handled by Chicago police.

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Scenes from a shooting involving multiple victims, including an off-duty Cook County police officer, in the Gold Coast neighborhood on Jan. 28, 2017. (Alyssa Pointer / Chicago Tribune) (Alyssa Pointer / Chicago Tribune/Chicago Tribune)

Jeff Lyle, deputy district chief for the Fire Department, said three people were taken in serious condition from the scene.

Ansari said the off-duty officer was grazed in the head. Police previously said a 39-year-old man had been grazed in the head.

A 33-year-old man was shot in the leg. Both men were taken to Northwestern Memorial Hospital, where their conditions were stabilized.

A 30-year-old man was shot in the lower back and was listed in good condition at Illinois Masonic Medical Center.

One of the wounded men was carried out on a stretcher past a crowd that had gathered at the corner of State and Division streets.

Officers patted down a man dressed in all black before placing him in the backseat of a police car. Bouncers from area bars and clubs huddled on the corner and watched as the man was placed into the car.

Officers later walked a man in handcuffs out of the crime scene. Police said detectives were questioning a person of interest in the shooting.

Officers blocked with police tape a public parking garage on State. Officers could be seen talking to several people inside the first floor of the garage and they were looking at a car. It was across the street from McFadden's Restaurant and Saloon, which also was taped off by police.

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Men who had been speaking to officers inside the parking garage declined to comment.

The area where the shooting happened has several popular bars and clubs. As officers interviewed witnesses, people continued walking in and out of the bars. Flower petals could be seen along Division.

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Hector Cruz, 23, was among those who watched the aftermath of the triple shooting. He had traveled from Romeoville to go to Detention Nightclub with friends.

He said he was smoking a cigarette outside the nightclub when he heard two gunshots and then saw people running.

Down the street, a man, who did not want to be identified, was on his phone perplexed by the shooting.

"What the (expletive)," he said.

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The man moved to Chicago about two months ago. He was at a nightclub around the corner from where the shooting took place, and he said he would think twice before spending another night out in the Gold Coast neighborhood.

"I'm from Kentucky," he said. "I don't see this."

As the crowd of bar patrons left the neighborhood, officers continued to guard the crime scene. Along Divison, a person waved a large sign at motorists in the area. It read: "President Trump Will Stop Chicago Carnage."
Police superintendent Eddie Johnson's godmother always told him, "God works in mysterious ways." The number of people who've volunteered to donate a kidney to Johnson in the 24 hours after announcing his need for a transplant has him thinking his godmother was right.

Johnson, 56, disclosed Friday that he is on a waiting list for a kidney transplant after nearly fainting at a news conference that morning. Since then, in addition to overwhelming support, he's received offers of kidney transplants from both the police officers serving under him and the citizens Johnson works to protect.

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"We have people dialing 911, asking officers to come over to their homes so they can give them their information," Johnson said at a news conference Saturday morning. "I've gotta tell you guys, that's a humbling, humbling feeling. It really is."

The news of Johnson's kidney condition came as the police department faces national criticism over its seemingly runaway violence. President Donald Trump has singled out Chicago violence on several occasions this week, including a tweet that led some to think he was considering sending in the National Guard "if Chicago doesn't fix the horrible 'carnage.'"

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Adding to woes of Johnson and Mayor Rahm Emanuel was a stinging U.S. Department of Justice report earlier this month that found the Police Department flawed from top to bottom, harshly criticizing officers as poorly trained and quick to use excessive and even deadly force, most often against blacks and Latinos, without facing consequences.

At a news conference Friday night, where Johnson appeared refreshed, Mayor Rahm Emanuel gave Johnson a vote of confidence, saying "he's exactly the person we want at exactly this time."

Johnson said he was diagnosed with the ailment  glomerulonephritis, an acute inflammation of the kidney  more than three decades ago when he underwent testing as part of his applying to become a Chicago cop. He was 25 when he was diagnosed, and said he was told by a doctor that his kidneys would probably only last three to four years.

"You have to have faith in these things," Johnson said on Saturday. "The day that the doctor told me I had this disorder, he explained to me what it was, you know. And that day, when I told my family, we all just said a prayer and then relied on that. Thirty-one years later, here we are."

Once a kidney donor has been found, Johnson said, he's been told to expect to be back on the job three to five weeks after surgery. Johnson said he told Emanuel of the kidney condition in March when he was the surprise pick to be superintendent. Until Friday, Johnson had mostly kept his condition quiet, he said.

"Yesterday may have been God's way of letting me know, 'Okay, dummy, let people know,'" he said with a smile.

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Johnson believes his light-headedness Friday was the result of taking blood pressure medication on an empty stomach  something he promised to avoid doing down the road.

"I've learned my lesson," he said.

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Saturday's news conference followed Johnson's visit to the Chicago Police Academy to greet and address applicants for this year's police officer examination. While the department has yet to release its application numbers, Johnson said the numbers looked "so far, so good." The department, Johnson said, seemed to be on track in reaching the city's goal of hiring nearly 1,000 beat officers, detectives and supervisors over the next two years, in order to combat the violence plaguing the city.

Johnson said he was especially pleased to see diversity among applicants. He said Chicagoans in minority communities often tell him they'd like to see more cops who look like them patrolling their neighborhoods.

In offering advice to the new recruits, Johnson felt it was important to emphasize the learning curve of becoming a police officer. Officers, no matter their rank, shouldn't be afraid to ask questions, he said.

"I'm the superintendent and I still ask questions," Johnson said. "They'll be fine  we have revamped our curriculum. When this is all said and done, CPD will be a model agency for the rest of the country."

Tribune reporters Jeremy Gorner and Bill Ruthhart contributed.
One person was killed and three others were seriously injured in a traffic crash in the West Town neighborhood at the intersection of Ashland Avenue and Hubbard Street on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. (Nuccio DiNuzzo/Chicago Tribune) (Nuccio Dinuzzo/Chicago Tribune/Chicago Tribune)

A 58-year-old man died in a two-vehicle crash that injured three others Saturday afternoon in the 400 block of North Ashland Avenue in the West Town neighborhood, police said.

A 19-year-old man who was driving one of the vehicles involved in the wreck was taken into police custody pending charges. Officials suspect alcohol could have contributed to the crash, police said.

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The 19-year-old, driving a Jeep Grand Cherokee, about 1:35 p.m. was heading west on Hubbard Street when he drove past a stop sign and crashed into a Toyota Camry, police said.

The 58-year-old man, who was driving the Camry, had been heading north on Ashland. The impact of the crash left both vehicles on Hubbard.

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The 58-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the Grand Cherokee and two of his passengers, a 25-year-old man and a 19-year-old man, were taken to Stroger Hospital with injuries that weren't life-threatening, police said.
People march during a protest against an executive order on immigration from President Trump at Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids on Sunday, Jan. 29, 2017. (Neil Blake / AP)

ISTANBUL  Update: A federal judge issued an emergency order Saturday night temporarily barring the U.S. from deporting people from nations subject to President Donald Trump's travel ban, saying travelers who had been detained had a strong argument that their legal rights had been violated.

Confusion, worry and outrage grew Saturday as President Donald Trump's crackdown on refugees and citizens from seven majority-Muslim country took effect. Airlines blocked people traveling to the United States, legal challenges were underway and doubts abounded about whether the order would make America safer.

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The immediate fallout from Trump's order meant that an untold number of foreign-born U.S. residents now traveling outside the U.S. could be stuck overseas for at least 90 days  despite holding permanent residency "green cards" or other visas. And some foreign nationals who were allowed to board flights before the order was signed Friday were being detained at U.S. airports, told they were no longer welcome.

Trump billed his sweeping executive order as a necessary step to stop "radical Islamic terrorists" from coming to the U.S. Included is a 90-day ban on travel to the U.S. by citizens of Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia or Yemen and a 120-day suspension of the U.S. refugee program.

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Trump's order singled out Syrians for the most aggressive ban, indefinitely blocking entry for anyone from that country, including those fleeing civil war.

The directive did not do anything to prevent attacks from homegrown extremists who were already in America, a primary concern of federal law enforcement officials. It also omitted Saudi Arabia, home to most of the Sept. 11 hijackers.

As a candidate Trump pledged to temporarily ban Muslims from coming to the U.S., then said he would implement "extreme vetting" for people from countries with significant terror concerns.

Trump told reporters Saturday the order is "not a Muslim ban."

"It's working out very nicely," Trump said of the implementation of his order. "We're going to have a very, very strict ban and we're going to have extreme vetting, which we should have had in this country for many years."

The order drew criticism from U.S. lawmakers and officials around the globe.

Sen. Ben Sasse, a Nebraska Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, said while Trump is right to focus on border security, the order is "too broad."

"If we send a signal to the Middle East that the U.S. sees all Muslims as jihadis, the terrorist recruiters win by telling kids that America is banning Muslims and that this is America versus one religion," Sasse said. "Our generational fight against jihadism requires wisdom."

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In Tehran, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Iran would stop issuing new visas to U.S. citizens in response to Trump's ban, but that anyone already with a visa to Iran wouldn't be turned away.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau took to Twitter Saturday afternoon to say that refugees were welcome in Canada, "regardless of your faith."

To those fleeing persecution, terror & war, Canadians will welcome you, regardless of your faith. Diversity is our strength #WelcomeToCanada  Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) January 28, 2017

Two of the first people blocked from entering the United States were Iraqis with links to the U.S. military.

Hameed Khalid Darweesh and Haider Sameer Abdulkhaleq Alshawi were detained by immigration officials after landing at New York's Kennedy airport Friday night. Darweesh had worked as an interpreter for the U.S. Army when it invaded Iraq in 2003. Later he worked as a contract engineer. He was allowed into the U.S. Saturday afternoon, hours after his attorney petitioned a federal court to let the two men go.

In their court filing, his lawyers said Alshawai's wife had worked for a U.S. security contractor in Iraq. Members of her family had been killed by insurgents because of their association with the U.S. military.

The government can exempt foreign nationals from the ban if their entry is deemed in the national interest. But it was not immediately clear how that exemption might be applied.

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Diplomats from the seven countries singled out by Trump's order would still be allowed into the U.S.

Those already in the U.S. with a visa or green card would be allowed to stay, according to the official, who wasn't authorized to publicly discuss the details of how Trump's order was being put in place and spoke only on condition of anonymity.

Trump's order also directed U.S. officials to review information as needed to fully vet foreigners asking to come to the U.S. and draft a list of countries that don't provide that information. That left open the possibility that citizens of other countries could also face a travel ban.

The U.S. may still admit refugees on a case-by-case basis during the freeze, and the government would continue to process requests from people claiming religious persecution, "provided that the religion of the individual is a minority religion in the individual's country."

The Council on American-Islamic Relations said it would challenge the constitutionality of Trump's order.

"There is no evidence that refugees  the most thoroughly vetted of all people entering our nation  are a threat to national security," said Lena F. Masri, the group's national litigation director. "This is an order that is based on bigotry, not reality."

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John Cohen, a former Department of Homeland Security counterterrorism official who worked under Democratic and Republican administrations, said the order didn't address America's "primary terrorism-related threat"  people already in the U.S. who become inspired by what they see on the internet.

Trump's order drew support from some Republican lawmakers who have urged more security measures for the refugee vetting program, particularly for those from Syria.

"We are a compassionate nation and a country of immigrants. But as we know, terrorists are dead set on using our immigration and refugee programs as a Trojan Horse to attack us," House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Michael McCaul said in a statement Friday. "With the stroke of a pen, he is doing more to shut down terrorist pathways into this country than the last administration did in eight years."

It is unclear how many people would be immediately impacted by the non-refugee travel ban. According to the statistics maintained by the Homeland Security Department, about 17,000 students from the seven designated countries were allowed into the U.S. for the 2015-2016 school year. In 2015 more than 86,000 people from those countries arrived in the U.S. on other, non-immigrant visas and more than 52,000 others became legal permanent residents.

Last year the U.S. resettled 85,000 people displaced by war, political oppression, hunger and religious prejudice, including more than 12,000 Syrians. Before leaving office President Barack Obama announced that the U.S. would accept 110,000 refugees in the coming year, but Trump's order cut that by more than half to 50,000.

No refugees were in the air when the travel ban was signed Friday, but about 350 people were in transit in Nairobi, Kenya, and were now stuck there, said Melanie Nezer, vice president of policy and advocacy for HIAS, a refugee resettlement aid agency. She said several hundred more people who were booked on U.S.-bound flights in the next week were now stranded around the globe.

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"This in effect could be a permanent ban," she said. "Many of these people may never be able to come."

Associated Press
President Donald Trump signs an executive order for border security and immigration enforcement improvements at the Department of Homeland Security in Washington on Jan. 25, 2017. (Pablo Martinez Monsivais / AP)

Government failures come in two basic forms. The first kind is not achieving the intended result  say job training that leads to no jobs or a Marine recruiting campaign that gets few takers. The second kind is doing damage that wouldn't have been done otherwise. It's roughly the difference between a cigar that fails to light and one that explodes.

The immigration measures announced Wednesday by President Donald Trump fall in the latter category. The consequences will mostly be more or less the opposite of what he and his supporters imagine.

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His promised border wall is supposed to stop the flow of unauthorized immigrants and reduce the number of foreigners living here without legal permission. But it's not likely to do either.

Stop the flow? Even if you assume smugglers won't find ways to breach the wall or tunnel below it, the flow will continue. On a typical day, more than a half-million people stream over the border from Mexico with the required documents. About 40 percent of foreigners living in the United States without legal permission came legally and overstayed their visas.

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Putting up a wall won't keep out people we knowingly admit  and it won't help find those who decline to leave. It will merely encourage more people to drive or fly in on a tourist visa rather than swim the Rio Grande.

If past measures to fortify the border shut some foreigners out, they also kept millions of others in. Princeton sociologist Douglas Massey notes that in 1986, nearly half of the Mexicans here without permission eventually went back to Mexico, knowing that they could always change their minds.

But when enforcement was stepped up, they learned a lesson: Once you're here, you had better stay. The number choosing permanent residence rose. How's that for a solution?

One complaint about people sneaking over the border comes from ranchers whose lands they cross and befoul. But the migrants are there because of tight enforcement.

In the old days, they sneaked across in border cities. "It used to be that you could literally sit at a bar in Tijuana, Mexico, look across the border into San Diego, wait for the Border Patrol to drive in the other direction and make a run for it,'' Steve Atkiss, a former chief of staff of Customs and Border Protection, told The Washington Post in 2015.

When security improved at major ports of entry, it pushed illicit migrants into areas with more rattlesnakes than people, which are harder to police.

That phenomenon would persist if the 653 miles of fencing now in place were extended, because filling in the other 1,300 miles would take years. In the meantime, landowners who have rarely, if ever, seen migrants before may play host to a steady procession of furtive skulkers.

Trump also wants to punish sanctuary cities  where policies bar police from making arrests for immigration violations or asking people about their immigration status. He decries these accommodations as a threat to public safety. In fact, they enhance it  by encouraging the 11 million foreigners living here without permission to cooperate with cops.

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The Major County Sheriffs' Association warned in 2015 that cutting off funds to these cities would "prevent law enforcement from effectively protecting their communities and themselves." Chuck Wexler, executive director of the Police Executive Research Forum, told USA Today, "If people are afraid to come to the police, that domestic violence incident today will be a homicide tomorrow, and that's in no one's interest."

Most of what Trump says on this topic is lacking evidence. During his campaign, he accused immigrants here without permission of "taking our jobs." But if he expects tougher enforcement to create jobs and raise wages for American workers, he's in for a crushing disappointment.

A report last year, commissioned by the National Academy of Sciences, detected "little evidence that immigration significantly affects the overall employment levels of native-born workers" and found it has only a minimal impact on wages.

A study by economists Gihoon Hong of Indiana University at South Bend and John McLaren of the University of Virginia concluded that by raising demand for goods and services in the communities where they take up residence, new immigrants create 1.2 new jobs each and boost the pay of Americans. Cutting down on illegal immigration wouldn't save jobs, on net; it would eliminate them.

Right now, Trump is happy to brag about his crackdown. Will he still own it when it backfires?

Steve Chapman, a member of the Tribune Editorial Board, blogs at www.chicagotribune.com/chapman.

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schapman@chicagotribune.com

Twitter @SteveChapman13

Related articles:

Trump says sanctuary cities are hotbeds of crime. Data say the opposite.

Countries where Trump does business are not hit by new travel restrictions

Illinois Democrats express 'disbelief' at Trump immigration order
In this photo taken on Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017, a woman who has been beaten by her husband, looks through a window in a shelter for women who suffered from domestic violence outside Moscow, Russia. The lower house of the Russian parliament has given final approval to a bill decriminalizing some forms of domestic violence, a move that has sparked intense public debate. (Pavel Golovkin, AP)

Imagine a country where domestic violence is a crime only if, for example, a wrist is broken, a kidney is lacerated or a cuff to the head causes a concussion.

Hard to imagine, right?

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Well, think of the land of Vlad, and you've hit pay dirt.

Russia is poised to enact a law that would decriminalize domestic violence. So, a black eye, a welt on the face and the trauma that comes with being struck by a loved one would yield a small fine, a short stay in a lockup, or a few weekends of roadside garbage pickup.

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Existing law makes battery of a family member a crime that can mean up to two years in jail. Under this legislation, if it's a first offense, civil  not criminal  law would apply, provided that the abuse doesn't cause serious bodily harm. Abusers who meet conditions of the law would get what amounts to a slap on the wrist  a fine of up to $500, community service or, at the most, up to 15 days in jail.

Russia's parliament, the Duma, overwhelmingly passed the legislation Friday. It now comes up for a vote in the country's upper legislative chamber, the Federation Council, which routinely rubber stamps what the Duma passes. It then goes to President Vladimir Putin's desk for his signature.

Proponents of the bill say government should keep its nose out of family life. They also say it's too harsh to make domestic violence a crime for first-time offenders, if the act of violence is "committed in an emotional conflict, without malice, without grave consequences," Olga Batalina, a co-author of the bill, told The Associated Press. "Battery doesn't even involve grave bodily harm. We're only talking about bruises, scratches, which is bad, too, of course."

Oy! Now that's some Potemkin logic! Striking your spouse or slapping your kid for the first time isn't a crime, but doing it again is. Is there a Russian word for "mulligan"? Creating minimal consequences for a first offense sets the table for subsequent offenses and disregards the deep psychological harm caused by superficial injuries such as bruises and scratches administered by a loved one.

The push for this law reflects Russian society's long-standing ambivalence to domestic violence. Russian police often shy away from responding to domestic violence calls, preferring instead to leave disputes to families to work out. According to a survey conducted by state-run pollster VTsIOM, nearly 1 out of every 5 Russians says it can be acceptable to strike a wife, husband or child "in certain circumstances." The Russian Orthodox Church has weighed in, issuing a statement last year that characterized corporal punishment as an "essential right given to parents by God."

Statistics bear out the damage domestic violence does to Russian society. The Russian Interior Ministry estimates that 14,000 women die annually from injuries inflicted by their husbands or partners  nearly 40 per day. Human Rights Watch says 40 percent of all violent crimes in Russia are committed within the family.

Opponents of the law say the measure essentially excuses violent behavior in households. "It is clear that lawmakers recognized violence as a norm of family life," Svetlana Aivazova, a Russian gender studies expert, told The New York Times. "This shows that Duma deputies are not simply conservative or traditional, it shows that they are archaic."

The measure probably will soon reach Putin. Will he be modern or medieval? The right thing to do, Comrade Putin, is obvious  say "nyet" and veto the bill.

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People march during a protest against an executive order on immigration from President Trump at Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids on Sunday, Jan. 29, 2017. (Neil Blake / AP)

Let me address those celebrating President Donald Trump's executive order barring refugees from Syria and other predominantly Muslim countries.

Let me address those who think keeping out Muslim refugees has somehow made us safer. That it has somehow made America better. That it has somehow shown us to be strong.

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You are wrong. Woefully, embarrassingly, pathetically wrong.

As Trump signed the order Friday  with Vice President Mike Pence and Defense Secretary James Mattis, two men who had previously denounced such an order, standing at his side, complicit  the terrorists won. The Islamic State militant group won.

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This is exactly what they wanted. For us to defy who we are, who we've always been.

They can claim victory for getting us to bend to their will, not due to force, but due to fear. Baseless, unfounded fear. Fear that is not becoming of most Americans I know. Fear ginned up for purely political purposes. Fear that will now cost innocent children, women and men their lives and any chance at a future. Fear that will embolden our enemies and help drive up their numbers as the evil portrait they paint of us  as a Western power at war with Islam  is confirmed in some young minds.

Part of who we are went away as that order was signed. And we are not better for it  not at all.

We don't look strong. We look cowardly.

And each and every person out there celebrating this decision, you don't look tough. You don't look patriotic. You look ignorant. And weak. Because you have turned your back on people in need.

You who are Christians have gone against everything Jesus taught. Everything.

He had no fear. He had only love. He would have let them in, no matter where they came from. And he would have loved them, no matter who they are.

On Sunday, many who support this decision will sit in a church pew and pray to a God they seem happy to leverage when it's convenient and happy to abandon when fear creeps in.

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Any of you who have stood on your self-righteous soapboxes and preached the sanctity of life, know this: People will die because of what happened Friday. They will die. Families will be torn apart.

They may not be Americans, but they are as human as you or me and as worthy of help and love and respect as anyone.

Because that's how it works in a world where we believe in freedom and standing up for what's right. That's how it works in America.

At least that's how it worked prior to Friday. Now, I just don't know.

So think about this at Mass on Sunday. Think about it Sunday night as you tuck your children in and tell them to pray to a God of love. Think about what this callous decision makes us, and what it makes you if you're celebrating.

Because we're not safer. We're not better. We don't look strong.

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We look exactly the way our enemies want us to look.

And we have to do better.

rhuppke@chicagotribune.com
Aurora officials are looking to extend the time they have to use a $2 million grant from the Kane County Forest Preserve District that was given toward building a pedestrian bridge over the Fox River near RiverEdge Park.

Members of the City Council's Planning and Development Committee have recommended an amendment to the intergovernmental agreement between the city and the Forest Preserve District that would provide the grant.

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Stephane Phifer, Aurora's planning and zoning director, said the two entities first struck the agreement in 2010, then amended it in 2012 to allow the city to use $350,000 of the grant toward engineering for the bridge and the project it is part of. This second amendment would give the city until 2020 to take advantage of the grant, which would put it in the same sequence as a Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality grant the city has been promised from the federal government toward the rest of the grant, Phifer said.

"We need a little more time than was allowed in the 2010 agreement," she said.

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The pedestrian bridge would connect parking lots on the west bank of the river downtown with RiverEdge Park on the east bank. It would cross through Blues Island, a long, skinny island in the river at that point. The bridge would allow for better use of the west bank parking, both for RiverEdge Park activities and for people going to catch buses and trains at the Transportation Center across North Broadway from RiverEdge, city officials said.

Because of the commuter train aspect, the pedestrian bridge was folded into a bigger project to change and improve some things at the Transportation Center, including relocating the Pace bus pulse point, which right now sits along Route 25 but would be moved closer to the trains; providing more parking; and adding a traffic signal to the entrance to the Transportation Center and its parking lot.

The city secured the federal grant for the overall project of about $8.65 million, and it also applied to the Illinois Department of Transportation for a $2 million enhancement grant for it.

The federal money is given to cover at least 80 percent of a project, with the local entity, in this case the city of Aurora , paying 20 percent. The $8.65 million would cover only about 60 percent of the cost, which means the city can pursue third-party funding to make up the difference to the 80 percent level.

Phifer said the city is trying to get the federal funding "expedited" to get the money sooner than 2020. But she said even if it does not come any quicker, the city is guaranteed to get it then. City officials also are going to ask for more money toward the project at the same time.

"The additional money, well, we'll just have to see," she said.

At one point, city officials estimated the entire project to be about $14 million, but because the engineering is not finished and the project is not even ready to bid, no one knows what the actual cost would be.

"We're in the midst of Phase 2 engineering, which is where we begin to finalize some of these things," Phifer said.

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slord@tribpub.com
The iconic school bus loudly rolls into our daily lives, as it has for a big part of our history. It gets the children to school. It has taken kids to new schools that once were closed to them because of their race.

Parents depend on the bus. When it's late or it doesn't show up, as can happen on that hectic first day of school, the newspapers are filled with stories quoting parents angry about their children being left alone at the curb.

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Then there are those children whose bus has never shown up  such as the students in East Aurora School District 131. The school district only provides busing for special education students, some preschool students and those attending the off-campus John C. Dunham STEM Partnership School.

That may change. The school district is once again looking into providing regular busing to all of its students. We heartily applaud this decision.

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Unreliable transportation is doubtless a reason students miss school or arrive late. This can have awful consequences. Research shows that high rates of absenteeism and truancy make it very difficult for students to keep up in the classroom. Studies by the national group Attendance Works show that missing 10 percent of school  or about 18 days on average in a school year  negatively affects a student's academic performance. It also reports that "by 6th grade, chronic absence becomes a leading indicator that a student will drop out of high school."

Last school year, 15 percent of students were deemed chronically truant in District 131, compared to 10 percent statewide. The graduation rate in District 131 is 64 percent, compared to 86 percent on average in other state school systems.

Attendance Works lists transportation problems as a contributor to chronic absenteeism. The school district would do well, then, to get data on how a lack of reliable daily transportation to and from school is contributing to absenteeism and truancy, if at all. We suspect the data would establish a link between absence of busing and absenteeism, given many students live in homes that are several miles from their schools. What parents would want their children to walk that far in a heavy rain or snowstorm if they are unable to drive them or if public transportation wasn't accessible?

Data linking good academic performance with a daily bus schedule could also prove to be persuasive to a community that has historically rejected busing. As far back as 1966, efforts to create busing have met resistance in District 131.

Admittedly, a comprehensive school bus system would come at great cost. This is one reason the community and the school district have been reluctant to expand busing. Indeed, voters rejected a ballot measure in 2005 that would have raised taxes to help cover the costs of busing. Some school officials think it's a good idea to look at the feasibility of partnering with the Suburban Pace bus system; perhaps create a shuttle system. We agree. District 131 might want to contact the St. Paul Public School System in Minnesota to see how well its pilot program with the local public transit agency is faring. The two entities are looking at the possibility of getting students to school via city buses, according to the MinnPost.

We know nothing is going to quickly change in District 131 when it comes to expanded busing, if anything changes at all. But we are encouraged that the issue is again in the forefront. That is where it should be in a school system without regular busing and with higher than state average truancy and dropout rates.
Frustrated over budget stalemate

As I reflect on my four years in office, I am humbled and honored to be serving as state representative. As a U.S. Marine veteran, I am proud to be able to work to improve the lives of veterans in our state and to prevent veteran suicide. But I'm frustrated with the ongoing deadlock in Springfield.

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The lack of a complete budget has left Illinois with a staggering backlog of unpaid bills. When I took office, I made paying down our debts a top priority, and in my first term, we were able to reduce the backlog of bills by over $2 billion.

But the two-year budget impasse, triggered by Gov. Bruce Rauner's refusal to negotiate a budget, resulted in the bill backlog ballooning to almost $11 billion. Even more concerning, our state's social service agencies are crumbling, and our higher education system is teetering on the brink of collapse.

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The only way we can move beyond the current budget stalemate is by working together in a bipartisan fashion. We need to lower property taxes to provide relief to hardworking families. I believe all of Illinois' children should receive the educational support they need and that we need to increase funding for our local schools.

We must encourage economic growth and promote job creation by supporting small businesses. I am committed to holding companies accountable by supporting reforms that encourage job creation and crack down on those companies that ship jobs overseas.

I am focused on ending this stalemate in addition to ensuring financial stability for today and future generations, making Illinois affordable to live in, and creating a competitive and educated workforce in conjunction with a strong business economy.

State Rep. Stephanie A. Kifowit, Aurora

If the tables were turned

We watch all the shenanigans surrounding the inauguration  the protests, the rioting, the property destruction, the rants, the marching, the screamed profanity, the stomping of feet, the collective holding of breath, the unfulfilled threats to leave the country, Black Lives Matter, the Hollywood elite, individuals like Madonna who, through her thoughtful, intelligent speech, inspired her "sisters," Hillary's influential donors worldwide to the Clinton "Foundation." (As an aside, isn't it fascinating that since her defeat in November, we see this charitable "foundation" dissolving because it, effectively, has no buyable influence? Let's call it what it is/was: a political influence trust fund that brought millions to them personally, with attempts to influence with Bill, Hillary and their political allies here and abroad through their exorbitant "speaking fees.")

Continuing: those who listened and hacked her conversations through her unsecured servers, CAIR, LGBT, LSMFT, and the variety of other variously lettered interest groups, and all of the other radical left-wing social engineers like George Soros and his ilk, Wall Street big money, the majority of the national media, and all of the left-wing interest groups and lobbyists. We'd have to wonder: had the election gone the other way and Hillary Clinton been elected president, what type of country would we have, and what would it turn into if these people had the president's ear and were, in effect, running the country?

And then people wonder why she lost.

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Mark Werthmann, Aurora

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Submit letters to the editor via email to suburbanletters@tribpub.com. Please include your name and town of residence for publication. Please include phone number and email address for confirmation. Letters should be no more than 250 words.
Ryan Schuring, a senior at North Central College in Naperville, poses in Heidelberg, Germany, where he studied abroad in 2015. The native of Elgin says he stands by the President Donald Trump's stance on immigration because he's seen the challenges other countries like Germany have faced. (Provided by Ryan Schuring)

As someone who works in an agency that helps refugees settle in the United States, Susan Sperry is accustomed to adapting to changes brought about by new policies or funding issues.

"We are used to the ebbs and flows of refugee arrivals every year," Sperry, of the Aurora and DuPage offices of World Relief, said via email. "But this sudden, dramatic change is a shock to the service provision network and is impacting World Relief."

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President Donald Trump issued an executive order Friday that he said would establish "new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America." According to the order, Trump would move to stop accepting Syrian refugees indefinitely. The order also calls for a pause in the nation's broader refugee program for at least 120 days and for suspending the issuance of visas for people from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen for at least 90 days.

Sperry, speaking before the draft was signed Friday, said her organization remains committed to the refugees it is serving. She believes the order likely would keep apart those who have arrived in the United States but are still waiting for some family members to complete the resettlement process. In Aurora, between 60 and 65 percent of the refugees that World Relief resettles join family or friends when they arrive, she said.

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"That's going to cause considerable anxiety and stress and pain for the people who are separated," she said.

But Ryan Schuring, an Elgin native and senior at North Central College in Naperville, stands by the president's position on immigration because he said he has seen the challenges other countries have faced.

Schuring  who is studying finance, economics, management and German  said he studied abroad in Germany in 2015 when Syrian refugees were fleeing in mass numbers to Europe.

In addition to his experience in Germany, he said he saw many refugees sleeping in the streets in Salzburg, Austria, and in Belgium, where the Red Cross set up tent camps.

Based on his experience, Schuring also disputes reports that most asylum seekers are women and children.

"I did not see a lot of families in train stations," he said. "It was mostly men my age or in their 40s."

But Shoaib Khadri, president of the Islamic Center of Naperville, stresses that this is a time for people to challenge their assumptions, ask questions and "step outside their bubble" to learn about different cultures instead of being fearful.

"When you hear something negative about the group, try to get to the source," Khadri said. "If every American who heard something bad about Islam went to a nearby mosque to ask questions, there would be no credibility to the anti-Muslim rhetoric."

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The rhetoric Trump is using in his official capacity as president validates anti-Muslim thoughts, Khadri said. Learning about a different religion or culture can often put an end to rumors or preconceived notions, said Khadri, who welcomes people to learn more by visiting the Islamic Center of Naperville.

"It is unfair to target an entire population of people as dangerous when potential risks are mitigated to a great extent by Homeland Security," Khadri said. "We care about the safety and security of this country as much as anyone else. This is where we live and where our kids live. This is our home."

Earlier in the week, Trump also moved to jump-start construction of a U.S.-Mexico border wall and cut federal grants for "sanctuary cities," such as Chicago.

Those moves, which were part of his campaign platform, have some people in the Hispanic community on edge, said Jaimie Garcia, executive director of Elgin-based Centro de Informacion.

"We get people saying there is no point of worrying and we have to wait to see what happens," Garcia said. "We have other people who have gone out and gotten ready to be deported, closing accounts and figuring out what to take back to their country."

And people who have a legal permit to be in the United States want information about becoming a citizen, Garcia said.

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Overall, "people are very, very concerned," he said. "They are actually scared."

Centro is working on developing a series teaching immigrants living in the U.S. illegally what rights they have, he said. Some changes can be made by the president, for instance, while other policies must go through Congress and the Senate, Garcia said.

"It could be a matter of a week, it could be a matter of months before anything happens," he said. "We just tell them to wait and be careful."

Adrienne Holloway, chairwoman of the Aurora Hispanic Heritage Advisory Board, said the group has not met specifically on these measures and is not sure what the moves would mean for residents of Aurora.

"What we're experiencing now is a president who's trying to make good on campaign promises through executive orders. However, we really don't know the extent or the ability for these executive orders to be fulfilled," she said.

The board is working with other organizations and representatives of Aurora's black and Indian communities to bring residents together and to provide information so people know where to turn with questions or concerns, she said. They are hoping to hold an event designed to meet those goals in the coming month.

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Meanwhile, supporters of Trump's policies say the changes are not the result of a lack of compassion. As president of North Central College's Student Government Association and vice president of the College Republicans, Schuring often is asked to defend his viewpoint.

"Once I sit down and explain my reasoning, they understand," Schuring said.

Suzanne Baker is a reporter for the Naperville Sun, Sarah Freishtat is a reporter for The Beacon-News and Gloria Casas is a freelance reporter for The Courier-News. Naperville Sun reporter Erin Hegarty and Courier-News reporter Rafael Guerrero contributed.
Surveillance photos show two suspects in a pair of armed robberies in Buffalo Grove on Jan. 28, 2017. (Buffalo Grove Police)

Buffalo Grove police are searching for two suspects in a pair of early Saturday morning armed robberies.

In the first incident, around 2:25 a.m., police responded after two male suspects entered the Mobil gas station at 1251 N. McHenry Road in Buffalo Grove. The suspects reportedlyentered the gas station and ordered the clerk to open the cash register. The suspects then fled with $50, entering a vehicle east of the building, police said.

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While investigating the first incident, police say a second aggravated robbery took place around 3:50 a.m. at CVS Pharmacy, 20 E. Dundee Road in Buffalo Grove.

Police say the same two suspects took about $200 from CVS and fled on foot east of the building before entering a vehicle.

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Police described the suspects as light-skinned black or Latino men, between 5 feet 7 and 6 feet tall, both with slender builds. Police say one suspect was wearing a black Chicago Bulls jacket with light-colored sleeves and the word "BULLS" across the back, with blue jeans and tan shoes. The other suspect was described as wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt, tan pants, black shoes with a white stripe on the side and a dark scarf across his face.

No injuries were reported in either of these incidents, which Buffalo Grove and Arlington Heights police K-9 teams assisted in the investigations.

Anyone with information about these incidents should call the Buffalo Grove Police Department at 847-459-2560.
A Harvey city official on Friday denied that the suburb improperly diverted water funds it owes Chicago to instead pay for department store purchases, credit card debt and contribute to a college fund.

Last week, a Cook County judge found the City of Harvey was in default on its efforts to repay millions of dollars for water it took from Chicago. Chicago attorneys alleged in a court filing Harvey had used water funds on other expenses, violating an agreement reached by the cities in 2015.

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"The City of Chicago is working with alternative facts," Harvey comptroller Louis Williams said Friday.

The defense came one week after Cook County Judge Kathleen Pantle effectively stripped away Harvey's control of its water fund, which by law and court order is supposed to be used for paying only water-related expenses. The judge ordered Harvey to pay $21.7 million  the amount of its remaining water debt plus the late fee penalties Chicago agreed to waive if Harvey had kept the terms of the 2015 settlement between the two municipalities.

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Last year, Chicago asked Pantle to find Harvey in default after the suburb repeatedly missed making the $244,000 in monthly back payments to Chicago. As part of their filing, Chicago attorneys alleged Harvey improperly diverted money from its water fund to other city accounts, and used water funds to make purchases at Kohl's Department Stores and contribute $5,000 to a college savings fund.

Williams said he provided documentation to Chicago's attorneys showing the purchases at Kohl's and other expenditures were promptly discovered by Harvey officials and they had the charges reversed in each case. He said the City of Harvey has adopted more stringent financial protections to prevent individuals from defrauding the suburb.

A spokesman for Chicago's Department of Law said Harvey never offered an explanation the improper expenditures or how the suburb would prevent them in the future.

Williams noted Harvey has recorded water revenues of $30.7 million over the past two years but has paid Chicago more than $32 million for the water it has used and also back payments during that same time period.

"That means I diverted money from our general fund to pay the City of Chicago," Williams said. "I took money that we use to pay the police, the fire department, I took that money and paid (Chicago)."

What is not in dispute is that Harvey failed to make five months worth of water back payments to Chicago. And the suburb also has not paid for the last two months of water it used from Chicago. Williams said Harvey can't afford to make the payments, but Chicago has been unwilling to reduce the monthly amount agreed to in the 2015 court settlement.

mwalberg@tribune.com

Twitter: @mattwalberg1
"Hidden Figures" is the story of Katherine G. Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson who are African-American women working at NASA. It was nominated for Best Picture. (20th Century Fox / TNS)

During the 1960s, the era of the movie "Hidden Figures," Joseph Pluth said he was studying to be a scientist.

A few years later, he said he worked with a newer model of the same computer featured in the movie while working at the University of Chicago.

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The New Lenox man said the movie, which he saw on Friday, gave an accurate portrayal of the science of the era.

"It was really well done, the whole movie," said Pluth after seeing it at New Lenox AMC Theatre.

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The movie is based on a true story of three African-American women who played important roles at NASA in 1961. The movie earned three Oscar nominations.

"One of the best pictures I've seen," said Mary Ellen Connolly of Lockport.

"And we laughed and we cried," said John McGowan, also of Lockport, who attended the viewing with Connolly. " Bring some tissues if you see it."

As people exited the theatre Friday, others also praised the film.

"I think its a story that should have been told before now," said Vincent Hardy of Chicago.

Hardy said it was especially important during February's Black History Month, so that children can aspire to be whatever they want to achieve. Diane Stemley, also of Chicago, said that it will help girls understand they, too, can be scientists, if they chose.

"Kids don't dream like they used to," he said.

The movie captured the era of the 1960s in a dynamic way, Stemley said.

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"It didn't rehash what you already know, it lets you absorb what the ladies did for the space program," Stemley said.

"It's a wonderful movie about women and science," said Arlene Jones of unincorporated Joliet Township. "When I got married (in 1966), the only opportunities were teaching, nursing and homemaker, (also) secretarial, that's about it. (Women) weren't encouraged to go into other fields."

Daily Southtown Twice-weekly News updates from the south suburbs delivered every Monday and Wednesday >

Jones said it was "heartwarming" to learn about the women scientists at NASA back then.

"It took me back," said Sheree Jensen of New Lenox. "I was growing up in 1961 I was 10 years old. It's a shame as brilliant of minds those women had they were treated that bad."

Karen Ely, of New Lenox, said that she is not surprised that the movie earned so many Oscar nominations. She said the acting was "excellent."

"You couldn't ask for a better group (of actors) from Kevin Costner, and everyone played in there," Hardy said.

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Still, what many of the people leaving the theatre remarked about where the real-life female mathematicians portrayed in the movie, Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson.

"Three women were that exceptional, brilliant and smart, nobody knew for how many years," Jensen said. "It's 2017."

Erin Gallagher is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.
Living up to its name, a comprehensive plan for a county or municipality covers a multitude of topics and issues.

Land use, conservation, transportation, housing, business, population, tourism and services are among them, and with each topic comes reams of data on demographics and trends.

Because of this, area officials admit that comprehensive plans can become rather unwieldy to residents and government leaders.

Therefore, its not a big surprise that those who put together such plans are looking to make reading them a little easier to understand.

Both Cumberland County and Carlisle Borough are among those updating their comprehensive plans. And both find themselves looking for something a little more succinct.

In the last 10 to 20 to 30 years, we were producing plans that were several hundred pages long, with background information about the community and employment numbers and Census data. (The plan) had a number of recommendations, Carlisle Borough Manager Matt Candland said. What people discovered was that it was too much. Its not always focused and not always practical.

Kirk Stoner, director of planning in Cumberland County, likewise found the 300-plus page comprehensive plan, while useful, rather lengthy.

Most comprehensive plans are very data intensive, he said. Right now, its over 300 pages and weighs about 5 pounds. Whats most important should be a springboard to action.

And what comprehensive plans are meant to do is provide goals and recommendations that can be met by local officials.

Comprehensive plans

A comprehensive plan is drawn up by municipal or county officials with the help of residents and other stakeholders, such as area nonprofit organizations. They cover a range of issues with the purpose of directing the future of the area.

According to the municipal code of Pennsylvania, comprehensive plans should include goals or objectives pertaining to future development, planned land use, housing needs of residents, transportation of goods and people, information on existing and proposed development, plan for protection of natural and historic resources and implementation strategies.

According to Stoner, counties in Pennsylvania are required to have a comprehensive plan, but municipalities are not. However, should a municipality develop a comprehensive plan, it should be updated every 10 years and be generally consistent with the countys comprehensive plan.

For Cumberland County, Stoner said its easy to fulfill the latter requirement because the county seeks input from municipalities when developing its strategies and goals, especially for land use in regions of the county.

We dont believe in the top down approach here. Were grassroots up, he said.

Stoner also said that for an area like Cumberland County, 10 years is not an acceptable time to wait to update a plan.

We believe thats too long, he said. Were the fastest growing county in the state.

The countys comprehensive plan dates back to 2003, but Stoner said the county made updates to it in 2011.

The county is again in the process of updating its plan with the aim to have it finalized and in front of commissioners by this summer.

Finalizing the plan, however, isnt the last step. According to Stoner, most officials should be seeing that as the beginning.

Then the fun part starts with implementation, he said. If youre not focused on implementation, the plan is a waste.

Goals and objectives

Since 2003, Cumberland County has made headway on what officials then believed was important to improve.

Then, the goals had been to address farmland preservation, help municipalities with technology, complete a stormwater management plan and address transportation issues with county-owned bridges. Stoner said the county has made headway on all of those issues.

Likewise, Candland said Carlisle has also been able to fulfill some of the recommendations from its 2002 plan, that it had updated in 2013.

There were a number of really good recommendations (with the 2002 plan). A number of recommendations were implemented, especially in regard to the downtown.

Candland said the new plan will address new goals for the borough and may be finished in the next few months.
A small church has won support in federal court to use this Markham building, 3509 W. 159th St., for worship services. (Mike Nolan / Pioneer Press)

A federal judge has ruled that Markham officials erred in denying a church permission to hold worship services by imposing rules that treat religious and non-religious assemblies differently.

In issuing a preliminary injunction Thursday against the city, U.S. District Court Judge Manish Shah said that requiring Original Bible Church to obtain approval from the city's Plan Commission was "likely unlawful."

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The church was twice denied permission by Markham to hold services in a building at 3509 W. 159th St., and filed a lawsuit in December. The church alleged the city had violated the federal Religious Land Use & Institutionalized Persons Act, which requires municipalities to treat religious assemblies on equal terms with non-religious assemblies, such as movie theaters.

In his ruling, Shah said the "church has a likelihood of success" on its equal-terms claim, but that the injunction was "narrowly tailored" as to not impinge on the city's ability to impose parking requirements on the church.

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The judge noted that the "uncertainty over whether the city will allow the property to be used for a place of religious assembly has caused irreparable harm to the church, because it has caused anxiety over whether the congregation will ever find a home." The 30-member church has been renting space in a Flossmoor church to hold services.

After concerns were raised by Markham officials about parking needs for the church, the church submitted a revised plan that proposed reducing seating in the planned sanctuary and abandoning the idea of using an adjacent lot for additional parking. That proposal was also turned down by the city.

In court filings in the case, the city said it didn't object to the property being used as a place of religious assembly, but argued the church "wants to provide parking on its property in a manner that violates the city's zoning code."

In one filing, an attorney for the church, Noel Sterett, had called the city's changing parking requirements for the building a "moving target," but the city claimed it was the church that kept revising its proposal.

In a filing earlier this month objecting to the church's request for a preliminary injunction, attorneys for Markham said the church's application "has been an amorphous moving target from the start, with details of its plans ever changing." The city, in that filing, said it was seeking compliance from the church with some "very straightforward and practical land use requirements."

"The church should not be trying to shirk its responsibilities while pretending this is a case about religious discrimination," Markham's attorneys said in that filing.

Sterett said the church would file plans with the city to renovate the building, a former bait and tackle store, and that he expected the parking issue would be easily resolved.

"I don't anticipate that will be much of a problem," he said.

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An attorney representing Markham in the case did not return a phone call about the judge's decision.

The city also had raised in the court filing the possibility the church would need a permit from the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District because of a creek that passes near the building.

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Sterett said the MWRD matter had never been raised during the church's prior appearances before Markham's Plan Commission and City Council, although the city claimed it made the church aware of the issue during its application process.

"Whatever it is, we'll deal with it," the lawyer said.

The church's pastor, the Rev. Fred Fields, and his wife, own the building, according to the church's lawsuit filed Dec. 13. Fields owns a construction and remodeling business and said he intended to complete the renovations on the Markham property himself.

Sterett said it "will take a little while for the plans to go through" review by Markham's building department, and that "I hope the city will be cooperative."

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Original Bible Church was incorporated in Illinois as a nonprofit in January of last year and parishioners had been gathering for worship services at a Matteson hotel and more recently at a church in Flossmoor while pursuing plans in Markham.

The church began its application process with the city in October 2015, and Fields said he was told by a city official early on that Markham did not need another church.

mnolan@tribpub.com
A 20-year-old man was arrested after allegedly scraping ice from the windshield of a stolen car in Oak Lawn, police said.

Maurice D. Nixon, of Chicago, was taken into custody Jan. 12 and charged with possession of a stolen vehicle, authorities said.

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Nixon was arrested in a parking lot in the 9700 block of Kostner Avenue with the 2000 Acura, which had been reported stolen earlier from a another location, police said.

The car had earlier been left idling to warm up when it was stolen, the owner told authorities.

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The owner, searching for her missing vehicle, claimed a man was scraping its windshield just a couple of blocks away from the site of where it had been stolen, police said. The woman then yelled and the man allegedly fled in the vehicle, police said.

Police soon arrested Nixon in the South Side parking lot after the woman reported the incident, Oak Lawn police said.

Nixon was on parole from prison where he had been serving a sentence for three residential burglary convictions, police said.

A warrant also had been issued for Nixon for allegedly violating his parole, police said.

Dennis Sullivan is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.
Rahaf Othman, far left, a teacher at Richards High School in Oak Lawn, flew to the nation's capital to participate in the Women's March on Washington Jan. 21. Her sister, Rola Othman, center, also marched. (Rahaf Othman Photo / Handout)

Many who participated in the women's marches of Jan. 21 describe the day on which millions of people around the world took to city streets in a peaceful yet determined show of solidarity as uplifting and invigorating.

"It restored my faith in humanity," said Rahaf Othman, social studies teacher at Richards High School in Oak Lawn.

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Othman, who flew to the nation's capital with her sisters to join the March on Washington, D.C., called it "an unforgettable experience."

"Everyone was so kind and caring. Everyone was united with a common purpose," she said. "It was a beautiful, peaceful march."

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Othman went on to say, "I loved this experience  I'd repeat it in a heartbeat. This is what America is all about. I love being an American and being able to participate in my civic duty in ensuring our voices are heard. This was an awesome historical event and I'm so glad that I was a part of it."

Othman's sister, Rola Othman, director of technology at Saint Xavier University, said, "This has been one of the most humbling and enlightening experiences of my life. The women's march to D.C. was something we decided to do as a group to support our sisters (and brothers) in the quest for equality, freedom and unity. Freedom of choice, freedom of speech, freedom of religion. We aim toward social justice and equality for all people."

Rola Othman said she was compelled to join the legions of marchers because, "I could not remain passive as I continue to see discrimination against people because of their color, sexual orientation, religion, etc. I participated because I am unapologetically a Muslim-American and am an active and contributing citizen of this great nation."

The best part of the international tour de force, which included demonstrations in red states here in the United States as well as across Europe, Asia and even on Antarctica, she said, was that, "People wanted to be there, people wanted to participate. The energy was contagious. We chanted many things, but my favorite and most poignant chant was the song by Woody Guthrie: 'This land is your land, This land is my land, From California to the New York island, From the redwood forest to the Gulf Stream waters, This land was made for you and me.' This land was made for you and me and we should all be equal in it."

Last fall, the students at Richards and at District 218's other high schools, Shepard and Eisenhower, voted in a mock election. Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton won the presidential contest at the schools by a landslide.

So, I asked school representatives what the students are saying now that the real election brought a very different result. Although many of the students supported Donald Trump before the election and still do today, teachers say there is an air of inquisitiveness that the women's marches has fueled.

Amidala Soria is 17 and attends Eisenhower High School. She marched in Chicago with her mom, younger brother, two cousins and boyfriend.

"It was a very inspirational experience for my family and myself," Amidala said. "I never thought that I would be part of such a historical event."

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The day left her feeling empowered, she said. "I felt good about myself," she said.

But she is still uncertain about the views of many President Donald Trump supporters, she said. "I feel good about those (people) who care about the good of (all) people but the others (make me) very scared. (The march) gave me hope that we will not let (President) Trump take over our lives. I hope we continue to stand up for our rights and we keep fighting for what's right."

In terms of size and of imparting positivity, the marches were a success in many people's summation. History, however, will tell if they result in any social change or legislative action.

Rahaf Othman, who plans to march again on April 15 in another demonstration aimed at convincing Trump to release his tax forms, said many students at Richards have asked her about the March on Washington and about the direction the country is headed in general.

They ask about the Affordable Care Act and about funding for Planned Parenthood, she said. Though some support what is currently going on, many are fearful, she said.

She expects even more questioning in reaction to President Trump's latest executive order suspending U.S. entry for 120 days of all refugees and blocking entry into the country for 90 days for citizens of seven predominantly Muslim countries.

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Rahaf Othman called the president's move "devastating. This ban is not only for refugees. Anyone with a visa or even a permanent resident (with a green card) is not allowed back into the country. These people have already been vetted prior to getting their visas or green cards -- why are they not being allowed back in? So many innocent families are being broken up."

The U.S. History teacher went on to say: "Our forefathers are probably rolling over in their graves right now. This is was not their vision for this great country. All of this makes my heart hurt."

She said the ban "completely goes against the Constitution and discriminates against a specific religious group. Even the Pope has stated that you can't defend Christianity by being 'against refugees and other religions.' Just like there is so much out there that improperly represents Muslims, I have faith that these Executive Orders and the Republican Party's support of them do not properly represent Christianity."

On Saturday night, a federal judge granted a request from the ACLU to stay deportations of those with valid visas detained on entry to the United States. As the issue was being protested at airports around the country Saturday, Rahaf Othman was bracing for the questions that would come from students when class resumed Monday.

On the upside, she added, "Our students are a lot more engaged about this election than any other election in my teaching career."

Gina Hanna is a social studies teacher at Shepard High School in Palos Heights.

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"I teach U.S. History and we talk a lot in class about current events," she said. "The girls in my classes were really pumped up about (the women's marches last) Monday. They wanted to talk about what was said in the speeches and Donald Trump's reaction."

Students who didn't know much about what had happened started asking questions, wanting to know the purpose of the gatherings, she said.

"So, we did talk at length about why people protest in general and the hopes of the people involved in the most recent marches," Hanna said. "I do find the students want to know more since Trump first announced his candidacy. We probably spend the first 5 to 10 minutes talking politics and current events each day. Their curiosity gives me hope for the future. I try to encourage them to remain active and, most importantly, to vote when they are 18."

Can discussion lead to change? What happens now that the marches are over?

John Duckhorn, a social studies teacher at Eisenhower High School in Blue Island, said throughout history, voices that rise together have had powerful effects.

"American democracy was built on the idea of protesting against one's government or an institution for the purpose of bringing about change or awareness to a cause," he said.

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The colonial period and the American Revolution preceded the Constitution, but both had an influence on the ideals of the First Amendment, he said.

"The ideal that everyone is entitled to the freedoms of speech and assembly," he said. "Even the Boston Tea Party, though not peaceful, exemplifies the desire for a platform to voice the need for change.

"We've had many successful protests that resulted in change," he said. "For example, the Bloody Sunday march in Selma, Alabama, in March of 1965 to address African-American voting rights resulted in the passage of the 1965 Civil Rights Act."

Before that, the 1913 Woman Suffrage Parade broke out in violence among spectators. The coverage of the mistreatment rallied a stronger public support for the suffragists that aided in the passing of the 19th Amendment, he said.

Daily Southtown Twice-weekly News updates from the south suburbs delivered every Monday and Wednesday >

But not all protests have been successful, he said.

An example of a failed one, he said, is the Chicago 1886 Haymarket Riot, which was intended to address the labor unions' desire for an eight-hour workday. A bombing by an anarchist resulted in the death of police officers, protesters and the execution of the accused, he said.

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"The event hurt public support of labor unions at that time," he said.

Still, he said, in terms of making a cause known, while a lone voice may get drowned out, the voices of many can reverberate across the nation and across time.

"History has shown this to be true," he said.

dvickroy@tribpub.com

Twitter @dvickroy
What is wrong with our new president? Most of his predecessors have said they wished there were more hours in the day or that there were two of them because the presidency of the United States is such a demanding and all-consuming responsibility. So, what is the current president's focus? It's on the ratings/attendance of his inauguration and unsubstantiated, totally fictitious, mass voter fraud that supposedly deprived him of winning the popular vote (ah, ratings again) that must be investigated immediately. Hello, Mr. President. You won. The job you now have isn't reality TV and will affect everyone in the country and around the world.

El

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In reply to the letter about declining enrollment at our state colleges and universities, have you looked at the cost of attending? Administrators and faculty collect six figure salaries, bonuses and pensions and spend money recklessly with no accountability. Tuition and fees are increased to cover these costs. Enrollment is down because it's too expensive to go to college in Illinois.

The U.S. is scheduled to give Mexico $145 million in foreign aid this year. Keep it and put it toward the wall. It's a start.

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President Donald Trump had an interview on ABC. He told seven lies, or demonstrated alternative facts seven times if you are a Trump supporter. But no matter how it is spun, what he said is simply not true on the seven issues he spoke about. It will be a long four years as his Cabinet of billionaires enrich themselves at the expense of the American people.

William, Oak Lawn

I see where one of our local members of Congress would like our new President Donald Trump to fund jobs for our region. That is funny. The former president was a Democrat like you? Why didn't he help your region?

Oak Forest

What's Speak Out?

Speak Out allows readers to comment on the issues of the day. Email Speak Out at speakout@southtownstar.com or call 312-222-2427. Please limit comments to 30 seconds or about 120 words and give your first name and your hometown.
State Rep. Tryon (left) speaks to the village board after receiving a recognition plaque from the Village of Huntley. (Jeanie Mayer / The Courier-News)

The village of Huntley bid farewell to State Rep. Michael Tryon who announced his retirement from the legislature this year.

Village President Charles Sass said he wanted to recognize the commitment and dedication Tryon showed toward the village during his tenure.

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"It's a happy and sad day. I'm happy he is retiring, and he probably is, too. But it is a sad day for McHenry County and a sad day for Huntley," Sass said.

"He was very instrumental in securing funds for the Route 47 widening. Without his time, commitment and effort, we wouldn't have been as successful. I really appreciate what you have done for the village," Sass said.

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Sass presented Tryon with a collage of photographs that captured many of the projects Tryon was instrumental in helping to achieve for the village. These included the opening of Centegra Hospital-Huntley, opening of the full I-90 interchange at Route 47, the widening of Route 47 and the groundbreaking of the village's municipal center.

Tryon said he was thankful for the opportunity to work with the village.

"When I was county board chair, Huntley was just beginning its growth in 1998. I feel like I was a part for every challenge and every step we faced You are people with a can-do attitude and a great administration. Huntley welcomed growth and welcomed people into this city. I thank you for the opportunity to work so well together," Tryon said.

Jeanie Mayer is a freelance reporter for The Courier-News.
Robert Zastany, who accepted early retirement recently from his position as executive director of the Lake County Circuit Court. (Lake County Circuit Court)

Last January, Lake County Circuit Court had to address the retirement of three veteran judges. This new year brings a different challenge  the loss of 14 court employees, including some in critical positions, under the county's latest early-retirement incentive.

The biggest name to leave is Circuit Court Executive Director Robert Zastany, who started in 1984 and has overseen major upgrades and expansions during his tenure of more than three decades.

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Chief Judge Jorge Ortiz on Friday called Zastany "a nationally renowned court management guru," and said a nationwide search is underway to find his successor.

Likewise, a national search is also being conducted to take over for retiring Director of Juvenile Probation and Detention Robert Cesar, who has been with the circuit since 1982 and will also be difficult to replace, Ortiz said.

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"Some of these folks are very key people," Ortiz said. "They really performed a public service. Many worked quietly behind the scenes in the advancement of justice."

Ortiz said many of the new retirees were in management positions with the court's Probation Services, and will need to be replaced to maintain public safety.

If there is an upside, Ortiz said it will be a chance to review organizational structure, although he added the court already does that regularly, "and it also is an opportunity for new people" and perspectives.

He said existing employees with experience will be considered in filling some of the positions.

Zastany, who left quietly in December, said Friday that his time with Lake County Circuit Court "was absolutely wonderful."

"The judges over the years always gave me latitude and space to implement best practices," he said. He said the Lake County Board was also "gracious" in supporting new programs and providing feedback.

The results were a number of national awards for the circuit court under Zastany's leadership, as well managing expansion of the court to address a huge population increase during his tenure.

Ortiz said that from the time Zastany started to the present, the county has grown from about 450,000 people to population of about 700,000.

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In addition to addressing those issues and supporting innovative programs such as Lake County's veterans and drug-specialty courts, Zastany gained significant national attention, from being awarded the National Center for State Courts Distinguished Service Award in 1996 and the Institute for Court Management's Star Award in 2009.

Ortiz said it is also of note that Zastany worked with the National Center for State Courts International Division to "help war-torn Kosovo establish a court system."

During Zastany's tenure with the circuit, the local court received 49 National Association of Counties awards for various programs and services instituted by administrators, from victim assistance to intensive juvenile services, psychological services and adult-probation outreach groups.

Zastany said much of the local court's success over years of increasingly tight budgets has come from its ability to start new programs without much new funding, develop them into successful entities and then receive state and federal grants to keep them going.

Ortiz said Zastany was a master at that kind of planning.

"To say he will be missed is a huge understatement," he said.

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The 14 court employees join a total of 80 Lake County employees who accepted the county's most recent early-retirement incentive late last year, with most leaving between December and this March.

The Lake County Health Department saw 17 employees accept the retirement program and eight employees retired from the Lake County Sheriff's Office.

Consolidation of staff and entry-level salaries will figure into the financial benefit for the county with regard to many of those leaving, county officials said, but some in specialty areas, such as Zastany and Cesar, the positions will not likely be replaced easily or cheaply.

County Administrator Barry Burton said recently the county is attempting to more efficiently maintain its level of service using fewer bodies and increased technology.

"It gives you the opportunity to kind of rethink how you do your business," Burton said. "Are there opportunities to consolidate? Are there opportunities to implement technology?"

Burton estimated the county will save at least $1.2 million over the next two years as a result of the retirement incentive effort.

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jrnewton@tribpub.com

Twitter @jimnewton5
The labyrinthine way Illinois schools are funded continues to baffle not only laymen but also Lake County educators. Especially the way the funding formula being used today doles out state aid to school districts that have charter schools within their boundaries.

There are eight state-sponsored charter schools in Illinois, and the impact these charter schools have on taxpayers and school districts is coming home to roost in Lake County. The county is home to two state-sponsored public charter schools, Prairie Crossing in Grayslake and a LEARN Charter School Network school in Waukegan. Under state law, charter schools cannot levy real estate taxes, the main funding vehicle for public schools.

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Instead, charter schools receive state funding based on the per-capita tuition costs of the districts in which their school children reside. In the case of Prairie Crossing, that amounts to around $3.7 million. That is money that Woodland District 50, based in Gurnee, and Fremont District 79 in the Mundelein area would see in their coffers if Prairie Crossing did not exist. Because of shrinking state aid and the presence of a charter school within their boundaries, both public school districts are facing very real funding problems created for them by the legislature.

Woodland officials have complained bitterly about the founding of Prairie Crossing, which opened in 1999.

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Over the next three years, Woodland expects to see its share of state aid fall $3.6 million as property values climb and enrollment declines, yet additional twists to the funding formula. That's about what the district received during the last fiscal year, meaning that after the state pays Prairie Crossing its portion of state money, Woodland will get virtually no state general aid. School officials contend the district has seen $30 million siphoned to Prairie Crossing since 1999. At Fremont, nearly $1 million in state school funding annually goes to Prairie Crossing. School officials expect their share of general education money to drop to nothing this year or at the latest in 2018. District officials have grappled with the funding so far by making cuts, but taxpayers eventually could be asked to fill the void.

Educators all agree the state's funding model is inadequate when it comes to paying for charter schools, something lawmakers missed when rushing to install charter schools in the Illinois educational framework. Charter school leaders see the funding they receive as "grossly inadequate"; public schools gripe about losing state money to the charters. The current climate, according to state Rep. Sam Yingling, D-Grayslake, "creates an adversarial relationship" between a charter school and its feeder districts. He's right on that count.

Yingling said he's open to further exploring a change in Illinois' funding model of state-sponsored charter schools that would address general state aid for them first and share the rest with other districts.

No one wins in the current situation, and with the state's ongoing financial impasse, it's not likely to get any easier to pry money out of Springfield. In the long run, there's no easy fix. Yet local and state lawmakers must get involved to ensure equitable funding for charter and noncharter schools in Illinois.
Residents line up to talk during a Jan. 23 Libertyville Plan Commission meeting where a proposed 15-house subdivision was being reviewed. (Rick Kambic / Pioneer Press)

A developer looking to build a subdivision near Libertyville's busy Butterfield Road and Route 176 intersection presented a somewhat scaled back version of his original plans Monday as residents raised concerns over several housing projects in town.

Paul Swanson originally presented a plan in December to construct 19 houses on 7 1/2 acres at the southwest portion of the intersection. The property runs parallel to the county bike path and currently has three houses on it. If approved, the subdivision would be named North Pointe Estates.

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To ease concerns from residents, Swanson on Monday presented a new plan for 15 houses that includes more green space. He said part of the change is because Lake County wants 20 more feet of easement for a potential future widening of Butterfield Road.

"The other thing I would remind everybody is that these homes are above the $700,000 selling point," Swanson said. "It's not like we're coming in with cheap homes. Our goal is to be a positive addition to your community."

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The group of about 50 attendees at the workshop presentation before the Plan Commission included a mix of residents who came to hear about this proposal and other potential housing developments in town.

"I take a look at what's on the dockets currently and it does strike me like Libertyville is really trying to build up every square centimeter possible," said Ellen Wettlaufer, who lives near Butterfield School. "I've lived in Europe for years and I can tell you what it's like to live in places like that."

Clay Ervine, who has spoken during recent hearings on two other projects, said he was surprised to see a few houses possibly turn into a subdivision.

"I grew up on the East Coast and if you happened to have an old lot with three or four acres and one house, that was it. There was a big deal to turn it into a subdivision," Ervine said. "It seems like here, we have little hidden gems that people are swooping in and all of the sudden putting in 15 more houses."

Village Attorney David Pardys said the proposed subdivision at Butterfield Road and Route 176 meets density limitations and law allows for landowners to divide their property into new parcels so long as it complies with zoning laws.

"The village years ago designated this neighborhood with a certain zoning classification and the zoning code dictates the general size of the lots that can go there," Pardys said.

Resident Katie Suttie asked village employees if the project would be subject to the tree replacement ordinance.

John Spoden, Libertyville's director of community development, said the code doesn't apply to this project.

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"It only applies to the taxpayers who have been here for generations who have sewage lines being interrupted but can't cut the trees down?" Suttie asked. "Here's another reason to band together, ladies and gentlemen. We need to talk to our trustees and mayor urgently."

Chairman Mark Moore said the commission's job is to review applications using current policy.

Commissioner Kurt Schultz said the latest plan is much improved. However, he said the Illinois Department of Transportation owns the nearby bike path along Route 176 and he's worried they may decide to cut trees down. Schultz said he wants Swanson to have a few more trees on that side as a backup buffer.

Other remaining issues include traffic on Butterfield Road and a median that prevents cars from making a left turn to go northbound, as well as potential flooding onto neighboring properties. The only special use permit being requested is to allow a 580-foot cul-de-sac when village ordinance limits them to 500 feet.

Swanson's proposal involves two areas for drainage, one of which is current vegetation and the other would be a new detention basin with new plantings. He said two separate drainage systems would be built and will likely improve current storm water issues.

Nearby resident Debbie Wilson asked for Libertyville to arrange a development agreement that would require Swanson to build a better system if flooding gets worse after the subdivision is built.

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Moira Morris, who lives behind the proposed subdivision, said the nearby land is an eyesore and thanked Swanson for his interest but expressed concern about traffic.

Jim Woods, a traffic consultant with Civiltech Engineering, said getting around without a left turn would be difficult, but he doesn't believe the amount of cars exiting the property will a problem.

Plan commissioners voted to formally review Swanson's latest proposal during their March 20 meeting.

rkambic@pioneerlocal.com

Twitter @ Rick_Kambic
Repealing the Affordable Care Act could have dire consequences, not the least of which would be the loss of thousands of health care and construction jobs in DuPage County, U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin said during a public meeting with county medical officials Friday.

"We'll lose 90,000 health care jobs if it's repealed without replacement; hospitals will delay construction and expansion," Durbin, D-Ill., said during the public discussion at Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital in Winfield.

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"I think this is the last test of private insurance," he said. "If the repeal people prevail, it will be catastrophic  for people, doctors, clinics and others. It could come to that in a matter of weeks."

Durbin's comment come in the wake of President Donald Trump's executive order giving federal agencies the authority to dismantle the program, known as Obamacare. It's believed Republicans have sufficient votes in both houses of Congress to make the repeal happen

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Durbin said he believes more people will begin to oppose ending the program once they realize what they'll be losing. Among the benefits to be eliminated, he said, are the no lifetime dollar limits on coverage, no chance to be dropped from or rejected for insurance because of pre-existing conditions like diabetes, 90,000 people in Illinois under the age of 26 losing their insurance coverage under their parents' plans, and no required coverage for mental health and substance abuse.

"One in four people suffers from mental illness," Gina Sharp, president of Linden Oaks at Edward Hospital, said during discussion.

Durbin said the ACA resulted in "the lowest percentage of uninsured Americans ever," with more than 20 million people gaining health insurance because of the program. About 1.2 million people in Illinois would lose their health insurance, including 650,000 on Medicaid, if it is dismantled.

Not everyone agrees with Durbin's assessment. U.S. Rep. Peter Roskam, R-Wheaton, voted for the bill that begins the process of dismantling the program.

"In Illinois, insurance premiums have increased by an average of over 21 percent," Roskam said in a statement. "More than 49,000 Illinoisans lost coverage when the Land of Lincoln Co-Op failed last year, leaving taxpayers on the hook for over $160 million. It's clear the law has failed."

The senator acknowledged the ACA has its flaws. Premiums are too high, even with subsidies, prescription drug prices haven't gone down and not enough healthy people signed up for it because they were confused by the process and didn't understand the value of what they'd be getting, he said.

Karen Ayala, executive director of the DuPage County Health Department, agreed, adding that politics played a role as well.

"Part of the challenge was people were not aware of the benefits," Ayala said. Many people who said they were against Obamacare expressed support for the ACA, not realizing they were the same thing, she said.

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"In order for it to work, it has to make business sense for the insurance companies," said Bill Kottman, president and CEO of Edward Hospital in Naperville. He said many healthy people who signed up through the marketplace didn't end up paying for the premiums unless they got sick.

Durbin said he doubted several alternate proposals being discussed in Washington, D.C., would be successful. Allowing people to create health savings accounts with pretax dollars wouldn't help the millions of low-income people who don't make enough to put any money in savings, he said. And letting each state decide whether or not to keep the ACA provisions would result in a patchwork of uninsured areas across the country, he said.

He added that a proposal to send Medicaid funds as block grants to individual states could be risky in places like Illinois, where a state budget crisis could divert funds away from health care.

One physician at the meeting advocated for "Medicare for all," a system he said more than 50 percent of doctors now favor.

Durbin said he, too, supported such a plan but it was removed from the initial proposal for the ACA. That option could eventually become more accepted if the program is repealed and health care companies keep increasing costs, he said.

At least two Republican Congressmen are needed to block repeal. Durbin asked those in attendance to contact their legislators in Washington.

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"Hearing from people in the community and hospitals and construction companies and hearing how many jobs are at stake, that could make a difference," he said.

Diane Moca is a freelance reporter for the Naperville Sun.
A Midstate woman accused of lighting a Silver Spring Township man on fire in an attempt to kill him was found not guilty Friday on all charges except theft of the mans van.

After only a few hours of deliberation Friday, a jury found Christina Leach, 28, of Harrisburg, not guilty of felony criminal attempted homicide, aggravated assault and arson. The jury found her guilty of felony theft.

Leach did not testify during the trial, and the defense did not call any witnesses.

Police said Leach attempted to kill a man by lighting him on fire in his home in the 7000 block of Wertzville Road in Silver Spring Township around 3 p.m. May 23, 2015.

During testimony earlier in the week the victim said he met Leach through a Craigslist ad and had spent time with her in the weeks leading up to the fire.

The man at first said the two did not have sexual intercourse, but after further questioning said the two had a physical relationship prior to the fire. Shortly before the fire, Leach offered to give the man a massage, he said.

Leach bound his hands to the headboard of the bed and, as he lay naked with his face down, poured gasoline on him and lit him on fire, the victim said during the trial.

Leach held the bedroom door shut as the victim burned, a point both the victim testified and Leach agreed happened when she talked to police in 2015.

What motive did she have? defense attorney John Shugars said during his closing argument. Maybe its unexplainable because it didnt happen the way they say it happened.

Shugars painted a picture for the jury that it was possible the victim started the fire in a stunt gone wrong and invoked the image of Evel Knievel.

With no way out through the door, the victim said he turned and jumped headfirst out a window of the second floor bedroom where the fire started.

The victim suffered third degree burns to more than a quarter of his body from the fire and suffered multiple broken bones from the fall, according to witness testimony.

During questioning with police in 2015, Leach said the fire started when the victim, who she said was playing with fire and holding a vase filled with accelerant, became sexually aggressive toward her.

She told police she pushed the victim away, causing the accelerant to ignite.

A plastic container with liquid in was found by police in the bedroom, but Pennsylvania State Trooper Terence Carberry, of the fire marshal division, said he smelled the contents, determined them not to be an accelerant and discarded the fluid out a window.

A red gasoline container was found at the foot of the bed near where Carberry said was the origin of the fire.

Gasoline was found on several items found within the bedroom; including a piece of cloth that the victim said was used to bind his hands to the headboard, according to Silver Spring Township Police Officer Christopher Butler.

Maybe something did happen at the end of this bed that wasnt supposed to happen, Shugars said, pushing at reasonable doubt that the prosecutions evidence did not meet the burden of proof.

A forensic examination of Leachs phone showed it had been used a day before the fire to research things like is gasoline flammable and how long does burning take to kill someone, Cumberland County District Attorneys Office Detective Ryan Parthemore, who works in the computer forensic lab, testified Thursday.

Shugars conceded that those websites were visited on the phone but said there was no way to know if Leach was the one who accessed them.

He went on to say it is not beyond a reasonable doubt that Leach set the fire.

If you dont know, and youre never going to know, then my client is not guilty, Shugars said.

Leach was arrested several hours after the fire in Harrisburg while driving a van belonging to the victim.

A search of the van revealed a receipt for an attempted ATM withdrawal made after the fire using a card matching the last four digits of the victims bank card.

Surveillance footage from the ATM that was played in court Thursday showed a person matching Leachs description with a cloth wrapped around her head and face drive up to the ATM in the victims van and attempt to use the bank card.

A partially eaten meal from McDonalds purchased after the fire was also found inside the van.

Leach is being held in Cumberland County Prison, according to court records.

She was found guilty of felony theft for stealing the victims van during the fire and will be sentenced on that charge on March 14.
The city has taken steps to improve traffic congestion by synchronizing some traffic signals, such as the one at 75th and Washington streets, one of the busiest corners in Naperville. Traffic remains resident's biggest gripe with the city, a recent survey shows. (Susan Frick Carlman / Naperville Sun)

It turns out that you actually can get satisfaction, if you're in a town like Naperville. A recent survey run by the ETC Institute found that 94 percent of Napervillians are satisfied with the town in which they live. That's 3 percent higher than what was found in the previous survey, which was conducted four years ago.

Naperville residents are especially happy with the town's efforts to keep them informed during emergency situations, using social media and other technology. They are pleased with the city's efforts to be prepared in case of emergencies and with the quality of the services provided by the police even when there is not an emergency.

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Significantly, the residents of Naperville feel safe, both in their neighborhoods and in the downtown area. In fact, the sense of safety downtown after 10 p.m. is 13 percent higher than it was four years ago, which suggests the efforts of the Police Department to improve the livability of nighttime Naperville have been successful.

The people of Naperville like the way their parkway trees are trimmed and how animal services are being conducted.

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But the same things that left residents dissatisfied four years ago are the same things they don't like today.

They don't feel they're getting good value for the money they spend on water and electricity. In part, this could be due to the large deficit incurred by the electric department and the loan from the water department that was meant to deal with it. Rates have increased steadily after the cost of power purchased through the Illinois Municipal Electric Agency ran significantly more than expected. With nearly 37 percent of the cooperative's shares, Naperville is its largest member utility.

The most chronic source of public discontent, however, is still traffic. Although Naperville fares better than other cities in virtually every other area, it falls behind in the flow of traffic and congestion management. In fact, in both traffic and street maintenance, resident satisfaction has significantly declined in the past four years. Dissatisfaction with the amount of public transportation available to residents adds to this problem.

North-south travel in the city earned the lowest ratings, with only 39 percent satisfied. Only 41 percent were satisfied with the availability of public transportation services.

Residents surveyed said their top priorities for improvement were traffic flow and maintenance of streets, sidewalks and infrastructure. City officials should use this information to guide upcoming decisions.

These things must remain priorities and should demand more attention and resources. The proposed streetscape plan that includes sidewalk improvements downtown is a step in this direction.

We applaud the effort to beautify that area and make it more accessible by adding benches, brighter pavers and wider sidewalks. We also appreciate the burden it would impose on store owners, who over time would be expected to pay half the bill. Things have already become quite challenging for brick-and-mortar businesses as online stores have increased sales. We would support a final agreement that has the backing of the business community.

While the aesthetics of the street outside establishments is not the most pressing problem, ongoing improvements will only enhance the charm of the downtown shopping experience. That's something online retailers will never be able to replicate.

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We urge the city of Naperville to first direct its energies toward improving the flow of traffic and reducing congestion. When another survey is conducted in four years, we hope residents will be more satisfied in those areas as well.
The ongoing presidential transition should not impede clean-up efforts at the U.S.S. Lead Superfund site in East Chicago, an Environmental Protection Agency official said Saturday.

Doug Ballotti, acting division director the Superfund division for EPA Region 5, said he does not anticipate any changes in the Superfund program and that money for the Calumet neighborhood cleanup should remain stable.

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"We don't foresee a limitation in our funding at this stage," said Ballotti, who spoke with East Chicago residents at an EPA forum.

His comments come in the wake of President Donald Trump's order that EPA employees temporarily suspend new business activities, according to The Associated Press, and the institution of a media blackout, barring EPA press releases, blog posts and social media posts. Trump also instituted a federal hiring freeze.

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Ballotti said the review of the agency's grant program is complete and the one looking at its contracts is nearly complete.

"That pause did not impact the Superfund program," Ballotti said.

The EPA will continue to provide information to the public, according to Ballotti. "We're still pretty much operating the way we've always operated," he said.

The agency held a multiagency open house Saturday  the first the EPA has had since September  for residents to hear updates on the U.S.S. Lead Superfund site. Residents continued to push EPA officials for information on the cleanup and the testing that found elevated levels of lead in the drinking water.

Maritza Lopez said residents are concerned the EPA is not doing enough to keep them informed about the work that's been done at their properties and where they now stand. She said many residents didn't even get postcards telling them about the forum Saturday.

Tim Drexler, an EPA remedial project manager, apologized that some residents might not have received their sampling results from the agency, assuring them they'd be available at the next open house.

"We certainly recognize your sentiment," Drexler said.

Zone 3 resident Jesse Avita asks a question during a forum Saturday at which U.S. EPA officials updated people on the status of the U.S.S. Lead Superfund cleanup work. (Jim Karczewski / Post-Tribune)

Residents also wanted to know why EPA officials don't attend the weekly meetings of their community advisory group. Thomas Frank said he wanted to make sure the EPA knew there was an active resident organization in East Chicago.

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Several times, audience members raised questions as to why the EPA is not providing them with water filters after tests found elevated lead levels in the drinking water. The EPA is telling people to install water filters in their homes but many can't afford them, resident Lendell Smith said.

Miguel Del Toral, of the EPA's water branch, said the agency is not providing filters. The sampling work done with drinking water sought to assess the impact that construction had on the lead water infrastructure and if the contamination from those pipes made it to residents' taps, Del Toral said.

As the EPA halted remediation efforts throughout the Superfund site in December, the agency found that 18 of the 43 homes where the water was tested exceeded 15 parts per billion of lead, the EPA's threshold for water safety.

Maritza Lopez, a resident of Zone 3 in the U.S.S. Lead Superfund site, asks a question during a public forum with EPA officials held Saturday. (Jim Karczewski / Post-Tribune)

The EPA tested the water during remediation work to see if the excavation had any effect on the lead service lines throughout the neighborhood, according to court documents. During excavation, the EPA gave residents bottled water, according to court documents, and gave water filters to residents who had work done at their properties.

Drexler said the agency could restart its excavation operations in April, weather permitting.

As the 2016 construction season wrapped up, EPA officials had remediated soil at 17 homes in Zone 2 of the site, which runs from McCook Avenue to East Huish Drive, and 38 in Zone 3, which runs from East Huish Drive to Parrish Avenue.

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In Zone 2, the EPA sampled soil from 494 of 596 homes, according to the federal agency, and 419 of 480 homes in Zone 3.

EPA officials anticipated that at least 395 homes in Zone 2 and 212 in Zone 3 still need remediation, according to documents filed in federal court.

Indoor dust sampling was done at residences in Zones 2 and 3, according to the EPA. If levels of lead were above those considered safe, cleaning was offered to those residents. The EPA will continue to sample dust in homes when excavation restarts in the spring, officials said.

"We hope to do as many of the properties as we can each year," Drexler said.

At the West Calumet Housing Complex, EPA contractors cleaned 270 units.

Tom Alcamo, an EPA remedial project manager, said the EPA does not have plan to excavate soil from Zone 1, as those plans will change once the city demolishes the West Calumet Housing Complex.

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"Right now, that cleanup is on hold," Alcamo said.

clyons@post-trib.com

Twitter @craigalyons
The Indiana University Northwest ROTC fold a flag in honor of a man who donated his body to science during the Indiana Northwest Medical School's cadaver memorial ceremony. (Kyle Telechan / Post-Tribune)

After her son decided to donate his body to Indiana University Northwest's Cadaver Prosection program, Tasha Jetson-Bowman viewed it as a way to establish his legacy.

"He used to tell his doctors when he had his first transplant surgery that he would be in textbooks and now he will be," said Jetson-Bowman, 45.

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Ryan Brown died on July 29, 2015, a few months after the 18-year-old had his second heart transplant. Brown was born with a congenital heart defect  his heart formed on the wrong side of his chest  and wanted doctors to study his condition to help future patients.

"He was a phenomenal kid," she said. "From 18 to say, 'I want to donate my body to science.' He wasn't thinking about fast cars and girls, he was thinking about the next person."

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The emotional service Friday at the IUN School of Medicine's Gary campus allowed Jetson-Bowman and family members of donors to meet many of the medical students and doctors who have learned from their loved ones and share stories. The program is now in its 18th year.

"Today is closure for me," she said. "I can talk about him and smile."

First-year medical students lit candles and read thank you letters for each of the service's eight donors -- Jeri Lyn Hansen, Shannon French-Holt, Patricia St. John, Judith Ann Wilson, Brown, David McLaughlin, Jeffrey Dolezal and Maurice Little.

Students in the university's ROTC program provided military honors for Little.

"For me, I feel it's an obligation that we have to the patient and their family for the gift that they are giving to us," said program director Dr. Ernest Talarico. "It isn't just their body. We've shown that this kind of program teaching philosophy makes a better physician."

For Arnold Obungu, a first-year medical student, learning about Brown's life underlined that patients were more than "cases to be solved," he said.

"I think having this experience reinforces that. This is a decision that they made, completely selfless," Obungu said.

For Kristie French, 60, of Evansville, the service also brought her closure after the death of her daughter, Shannon French-Holt, a mother of two, from breast cancer at 38 on March 11, 2016.

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In October 2010, French-Holt was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer, a rare form for a patient in her 30s, her mother said.

"She knew that would take her life; she didn't know when," her mother said. "She fought really hard because she had so many adversaries."

French-Holt initially went through two surgeries and later developed a serious kidney infection, she said. Her mother retired from teaching in 2015 to care for her daughter.

"She knew that would be her last year," French said.

French-Holt, who worked for the Southwestern Indiana Builders Association in Evansville helped organized the area's annual parade of homes was a consummate planner, but did not want a traditional funeral, French said.

She left the details up to her mother.

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When a friend suggested her daughter could donate her body to science, French said she suggested it to her daughter.

"Her bucket list was make a difference in someone's life," French said. "It gives you closure. It's such a relief. It's really a godsend and a blessing."

mcolias@post-trib.com

Twitter: @meredithcolias
A Lake County councilman says the call for his resignation by a longtime Gary state representative in the wake of his misdemeanor conviction stemming from a domestic incident is political.

Lake County Councilman Jamal Washington, D-Merrillville, took to social media Thursday night and defended his position Friday.

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State Rep. Charlie Brown, D-Gary, in a letter posted on Washington's Facebook page, called for the Washington to step down in the wake of the his recent efforts to fight domestic violence charges.

"Councilman Washington's actions are distasteful to not only women, but to anyone else who respects women," Brown wrote.

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Washington was charged in December 2015 with two counts of strangulation and one count of domestic battery, all felonies, after an incident at his Merrillville home involving two women. He was later charged again after violating a protection order in the spring.

Through a plea deal reached in early December, he pleaded guilty to battery resulting in bodily injury and invasion of privacy, both misdemeanors. He was sentenced to six months in Lake County Jail on each of the charges, all suspended, and one year of probation.

"While Councilman Washington has made a failed attempt at apologizing, his apology fails to demonstrate the required degree of contrition," Brown said.

Washington took to a Facebook Live feed Thursday to decry the call for his resignation. Washington, who was joined by Gary City Councilwoman LaVetta Sparks-Wade, D-6th, in the feed, described the attack by Brown as political.

Washington said the reason Brown has come out now is because he and Sparks-Wade represent a threat to the establishment and its positions.

On Friday he maintained his stance that the attack on his position by Brown was a move to quiet his opposition to the West Lake expansion of the South Shore line.

"It amazes me to what lengths someone would go to squash the voice of someone who is opposing their views," Washington said.

He said Brown has not made public statements on politicians that have been brought up on public corruption charges and is directing his ire toward Washington because of his positions on some issues.

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Brown denied Friday that the call for Washington's resignation was political. He said Washington's appointment to vice president of the county council despite the misdemeanor conviction "was the straw that broke the camel's back."

"That's really a stretch. I'm not aware of his stance on anything," Brown said, adding he is not on Facebook and did not see the Thursday Facebook Live post by Washington.

Brown said Washington is his representative on the county council and he is appalled

"Rather than try and disappear in the woodwork, he still wants to be a big shot. That's not acceptable to me," Brown said. "I am encouraging all of my fellow elected officials, every citizen in the councilman's district to speak out and show their anger, disgust and disdain for a personality like Mr. Jamal Washington."

Washington said he has always been forthcoming regarding his personal legal situation and has repeatedly apologized publicly and on Facebook. He said he will continue to work on the council for the benefit of his constituents and will not be silent.

"I made a mistake and the establishment is pounding on it. Guess what? I am not going to fall," Washington said. "I will keep standing, standing up for the injustice (the West Lake corridor) is for the public."

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Council President Ted Bilski, D-Hobart, said he had not seen the letter, nor Washington's response via Facebook, but said the claim the establishment is trying to silence him is not true. Bilski said it boils down to a simple matter of right vs. wrong.

He said Washington's criminal conviction likely is receiving more attention in the wake of the council's action to Washington's appointment earlier this month to vice president of the panel. The council split 4-3 to appoint Washington vice president, with Bilski, Councilman Dan Dernulc, R-Highland, and Councilwoman Elsie Franklin, D-Gary, voting against the appointment.

"He is legally allowed to serve, but the body was not required to promote him to the position of vice president," Bilski said. While he did not support Washington's appointment, Bilski said he shares in the responsibility of it.

"I think we are sending the wrong message to the victims of domestic abuse in Lake County," Bilski said.

Councilwoman Christine Cid, D-East Chicago, in a release Friday said she was reconsidering her support of Washington for council vice president. Cid said she based her decision to vote to appoint Washington to the slot "based on his demonstration of responsibility and accountability as it related to County Council business."

Cid said she struggled with the decision due to Washington's personal situation with domestic violence.

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"At this point in time, I am not completely comfortable with my decision," Cid said in the release, adding for years she has spoken out against such violence.

"Although I stand proud on my past votes, this vote weighs heavily on my heart and has been on my mind constantly," Cid said, adding she plans to make a motion at the Feb. 14 meeting revisiting the appointment.

Carrie Napoleon is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
South Shore Line officials can't prevent an ice storm from coating their power lines and equipment with ice, but they can respond better when something like that happens again, they said Friday.

"There are some things we absolutely are going to improve," Michael Noland, the South Shore's president and general manager, said in discussing the Jan. 12 incident that stranded South Shore riders on one train for more than three hours and disrupted all the morning rush-hour service that day.

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Noland told the Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District board that emergency procedures and communications will be improved, and the South Shore is considering some technologies that are used by other railroads.

"Everybody here feels that's unacceptable," NICTD board member Jim Biggs, a Porter County commissioner, said of the Jan. 12 incident, "and we need to fix that."

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Board member Michael Repay, a Lake County commissioner, said it would be good to have a written report, in addition to Friday's verbal reports by Noland and other South Shore officers.

Mark Yagelski, NICTD board president, of LaPorte County, said some people didn't feel they got a good explanation at the time.

Victor Babin, the South Shore's chief engineering officer, said ice weighed down the pantographs  the apparatus that brings power to train cars from the electric line overhead  and cut off power to the train that got stuck on the tracks west of the Hegewisch station in the Hegewisch section of Chicago. He said Metra trains operating south of Chicago on Jan. 12 had less trouble with the ice, in part because they have heated pantographs.

Also, Metra trains run more frequently, which helps keep ice from building up on the power lines.

The South Shore is considering getting heated pantographs and pantograph-mounted ice-cutters.

Bill O'Dea, the South Shore's chief operating officer, said the South Shore also plans to acquire another diesel locomotive and have it stationed near the western end of the line to help stranded trains.

Noland said NICTD's text-messaging system proved to be inadequate Jan. 12, and the railroad will switch to another system to relay information to customers.

Also at the NICTD meeting:

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The NICTD board approved a $1.1 billion five-year capital plan for major South Shore improvements, including $604 million for the West Lake extension from Hammond to Dyer; $290 million for installing a second set of tracks between Gary and Michigan City; $75 million for positive train control, an automated emergency braking system mandated by federal law; $30 million for new train cars; $20 million to move the South Shore tracks to the western end of the South Bend Airport terminal, to reduce travel time; and $93.6 million for "state of good repair" projects to maintain and upgrade the service. Federal funds would pay for more than half or more of all the projects except for positive train control.

The number of South Shore riders last year fell by about 3.1 percent, but ticket revenue was up about 3.4 percent. John Parsons, the South Shore's marketing and planning director, said lower gasoline prices have prompted some passengers to switch to cars, and Chicago's special events are attracting fewer people. Track-improvement projects caused train delays in the first half of last year, but in the past six months, Parsons said, the trains were on time nearly 94 percent of the time.

Tim Zorn is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
As he packed his bags for his new job in Washington last month, Vice President Mike Pence hurled one last insult at a Lake County city.

Saying East Chicago already was getting enough help, the former GOP governor rejected Mayor Anthony Copeland's request for a federal disaster declaration to aid families caught in the quagmire of a lead and arsenic contamination nightmare. About 1,000 residents of the West Calumet Housing Complex found out last summer the ground under their public housing project was laced with a toxic stew of lead and arsenic stemming from manufacturing operations decades ago.

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Copeland outlined the city's plight and the drain it's had on resources, including its federal public housing dollars, in his December letter to Pence's deaf ears.

Environmental studies of the West Calumet area first began in 1985, and it became part of the USS Lead Superfund site in 2008. Indiana entered into a federal consent decree in 2014, but Copeland said the city was not a party to the decree. State environmental officials apparently didn't consider warning local officials about the toxins that residents lived near.

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Copeland said he didn't learn of the site's "unprecedented" lead levels until May 2016, and the city began doing its own blood tests. The state finally began doing blood tests in July, while Pence was busy taking bows at the GOP convention.

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In his letter, Copeland fought for new services. He argued the declaration could pave the way for new mental health assistance for shaken residents. He said blight remediation funding would help tear down the West Calumet Housing Complex and preserve the property values of its neighbors. No dice, Copeland was told.

In a bitter election year, this is what happens to folks in a heavily Democratic county in a red state with an ambitious governor focused on playing to a nationwide base. Like Flint, Mich., a minority city coping with its own lead crisis, East Chicago got hosed.

In August, as East Chicago residents despaired over the harm their children may have suffered, Pence visited a flooding disaster site in Louisiana while campaigning with now-President Donald Trump. They passed out water bottles, looking sympathetic to voters. Yet Pence still hasn't visited the lead-contaminated disaster in his own state.

Copeland doesn't plan to quit trying. He said he'll send another letter to new Gov. Eric Holcomb, who hopefully won't be as tone deaf as his predecessor. There are also some positive signs of bipartisan cooperation among state lawmakers that could provide significant relief to weary residents.

There are several proposals, authored by local Democrats and Republicans, aimed at helping the city.

One would provide an additional $2.8 million emergency loan to the School City of East Chicago to pay off debt owed for the shuttered Carrie Gosch Elementary School, next to West Calumet. The lead crisis forced the school to close. Another bill would appropriate $5 million over the next two years for disaster relief in the city.

Meanwhile, Trump has cast a cloud of doubt over cleanup efforts in East Chicago. Last week, he issued an order suspending all U.S. Environmental Protection Agency activities, and it's unclear whether that will suspend efforts in East Chicago. Cleanup work ended in December with more than 600 homes still in need of remediation. Work is expected to resume in the spring, but Trump's order provides new concern for residents who may not agree he's "making America great again," let alone East Chicago.
The far-flung celebrations of the Chinese Lunar New Year around the world offer people beyond the country an opportunity to feel the charm of China's traditions and culture, and also testify to its increasing soft power.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has sent a message to the Chinese people and wished them a happy Lunar New Year.

A growing number of people around the world are now celebrating the Chinese Lunar New Year, or Chinese Spring Festival, which lasts several days. The holiday, which is about reunion and togetherness, has become a highly anticipated annual event not only for the Chinese.

Over 1,000 Ghanaian students from the capital's junior high schools on Wednesday performed Chinese songs and dances to celebrate the Spring Festival.

The event was hosted by the Confucius Institute at the University of Ghana Basic School, Legon. During the event, students from the Confucius Institute also displayed their proficiency in the spoken Chinese language and knowledge of Chinese music, dance and traditional costumes.

Chinese embassies as well as people of Chinese origin hold various receptions and parties during this time of the year in their respective countries to socialize with their counterparts and friends.

Earlier this month, the Chinese Embassy in Cuba held a New Year's reception, welcoming dozens of people of Chinese descent and Cuban guests.

The Chinese Ambassador to Cuba, Chen Xi, assured that the next 12 months will be decisive for strengthening political and commercial ties between the two countries in search of bilateral prosperity, as well as the bonds of friendship that have existed for more than 50 years.

The Chinese embassies in the United States, Nepal, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Egypt and Rwanda held all kinds of activities to mark the occasion, attracting members from various circles of their host countries.

President of the French National Assembly Claude Bartolone also threw a party in Paris recently to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year.

On the festive occasion, many national leaders have expressed their wishes for a stronger bilateral relationship.

While sending her wishes to those celebrating the festival worldwide, British Prime Minister Theresa May said on Thursday that the starting point of bilateral relations between Britain and China is stronger than ever before.

"We receive more Chinese investment than any other major European country. We've got around 150,000 Chinese students studying here and the number of Chinese tourists visiting has doubled in five years," she said.

"The Rooster -- the Fire Rooster -- represents so many of the characteristics we need to employ in that endeavor: openness, confidence, hard work and leadership," May said. "Indeed, they are characteristics demonstrated day in, day out by the British Chinese community."

United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has sent a message to the Chinese people and wished them a happy Lunar New Year, which falls on Saturday.

In a video message, Guterres said the Year of the Rooster symbolizes early starts and new beginnings. "It stresses the importance of energy, determination and a strong sense of responsibility at work."

"These are inspiring attributes to help guide us in troubled times," he said in the video released Wednesday night.

Czech President Milos Zeman on Wednesday evening invited reporters from China Central Television (CCTV) to convey his best wishes for the Chinese Lunar New Year.

Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen has also sent his greetings to overseas Chinese and Cambodians of Chinese descent ahead of the Chinese New Year.

"As the Chinese Lunar New Year, the Year of the Rooster, draws near, in the status of the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, I'd like to join the celebrations with all brothers and sisters who have always lived and shared happiness and difficulty with each other since old times," he wrote in a message sent to the Association of Khmer-Chinese in Cambodia on Monday and released to the media on Thursday.
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Morocco's interior ministry announced on Friday the foiling of an Islamic State's (IS) terror attack, a new operation that shows the imminent threat the group poses to the country.

Morocco has been targeted by terrorist groups. Terror attack in 2011 in the tourist city of Marrakesh claimed the lives of at least 15 people. In recent years, it was the IS group that has been plotting attacks against sensitive spots in the country.

According to official figures, in 2016 alone, Morocco busted 19 terrorist cells and arrested of 273 suspects, most of them linked to the group which control large swaths in Syria and Iraq.

Friday's operation led to the bust of the seven-member cell in five cities, namely El Jadida, Settat, Sale, Meknes and Taza, the ministry said in a statement.

The interior ministry said that the police raided the cell's safe house in the coastal city of El Jadida, some 190 km south of the capital Rabat, adding that the mastermind of the cell was preparing terror attacks following orders from IS field leaders.

National TV channels showed the seized firearms, ammunition, bladed weapons, telecommunication devices, chemical substances and suspicious liquids.

The ministry said that these materials are likely to be used in the production of explosive devices, noting that the suspicious objects will be submitted to scientific expertise.

While the ministry did not reveal details about the operation in El Jadida, le360.ma news site reported earlier on Friday that the Moroccan police started since the early hours an operation where real bullets and explosion were heard in the coastal city.

The explosion was also reported by Alyaoum24.com news site, which cited local sources saying that the city has been on high alert.

The ministry noted that the cell planned also to recruit young people to conduct operations that kill as many people as possible and undermine the country's stability.

The statistics of the Central Bureau of Judicial Investigations (BCIJ) indicate that since 2002, 167 cells have been dismantled, 46 of which were closely linked to groups active in IS conflict zones.

A total of 341 terrorist attempts have been foiled by Moroccan security services and 2,963 individuals arrested were arrested and brought to justice, according to the same figures.
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U.S. President Donald Trump and British Prime Minister Theresa May hold a joint press conference at the White House in Washington D.C., the United States, Jan. 27, 2017. U.S. President Donald Trump said Friday that it is "very early" to talk about lifting sanctions on Russia in relation to the Ukraine crisis. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu)

U.S. President Donald Trump is "100 percent" behind NATO, British Prime Minister Theresa May said Friday as she paid a visit to the United States.

"On defense and security cooperation, we are united in our recognition of NATO as the bulwark of our collective defense, and today we've reaffirmed our unshakable commitment to this alliance," May said at a joint press conference following a meeting with Trump.

"Mr. President, I think you said, you confirmed that you're 100 percent behind NATO," she added.

In a recent interview, Trump said NATO was "obsolete because it was not taking care of terror," and he complained that various members of the bloc were not paying their dues, which was "very unfair to the United States."

However, Trump added that NATO was very important to him.

May is the first foreign leader to hold face-to-face talks with Trump after he was inaugurated a week as the new U.S. President.

At the press conference on Friday, May said she will ensure that other European leaders follow through on their commitments to NATO.

"We're also discussing the importance of NATO continuing to ensure it is as equipped to fight terrorism and cyber warfare as it is to fight more conventional forms of war," May said.

The British leader added that she will also continue to encourage other European leaders to deliver on their commitments to spend 2 percent of their country's GDP on defense "so that the burden is more fairly shared."
 Flash

Mexico's President Enrique Pena Nieto and his US counterpart Donald Trump on Friday agreed to keep a bitter and ongoing dispute over a border wall project out of the public realm, the office of the presidency said.

The two "spoke for an hour by telephone," a day after Pena Nieto cancelled a meeting with Trump that was to take place on Tuesday.

Pena Nieto cancelled the visit after Trump tweeted there was no point in meeting if Mexico was not prepared to pay for a wall along the US' southern border.

In a statement, the presidency said, "in regard to paying for the border wall, both presidents acknowledged their clear and very public positions on such a sensitive issue, and agreed to resolve these differences as part of a comprehensive discussion on all aspects of the bilateral relationship."

Both "also agreed to not talk about this controversial matter in public for now."

Pena Nieto and Trump have instructed their teams "to continue to dialogue to strengthen this important strategic and economic relationship in a constructive way," his office added.

The leaders had a "constructive and productive conversation" on bilateral ties, "including the US' trade deficit with Mexico, the importance of the friendship between our two nations, the need for our countries to work together to stop drug trafficking and the illegal flow of arms," the office said.

Surprisingly, no mention was made of illegal immigration from Latin America, especially Mexico, to the US.

Trump has said the wall is needed to keep out illegal migrants, as well as prevent trafficking.

The call was "arranged by their work teams," the office said.
We have long known that presidents, or perhaps more accurately, their policies, have a bearing on the stock market.

This site: http://www.macrotrends.net/2481/stock-market-performance-by-president has a fantastic graph that shows how the stock market fared under each president since Warren G. Harding in 1923.

Calvin Coolidge, who completed Hardings term and then one term of his own, saw the biggest market rise of 230.5 percent. He was followed very closely by Bill Clinton who oversaw a run-up of 228.9 percent over an eight-year period.

President Herbert Hoover, whose term ushered in the Great Depression, oversaw the most precipitous decline at -82.1 percent.

While not on the same level as Hoover, both Presidents Richard Nixon and George W. Bush saw market declines just short of 30 percent.

Two presidents whose terms saw virtually the same performance may surprise many of you, as it did me. President Obama oversaw a market increase of 150.6 percent, which was 2.3 percent better than President Reagan.

Overall, Democrats have seen much better overall market performance. No Democrat oversaw a decline in their term while three Republicans did.

It is far too early to make any kind of prediction, but President Donald Trump may have the touch. In recent weeks we have seen what many are calling the Trump effect. The week of the election the market jumped 1,000 points and over the next 30 days, another 1,000 points.

The rise is based on the premise that many of President Trumps policies will lead to growth and expansion. One of the his first orders was to have the Keystone and Dakota pipeline plans move forward.

Additionally, there is talk of a trillion dollar infrastructure improvement program and talk about a repeal or modification of the Dodd-Frank banking regulation bill.

As a result, steel companies, heavy equipment companies and financial institutions have all seen their stock prices jump.

Stock prices also move based on perception of a president as we saw with gun stocks during the Obama administration.

Because voters perceived President Obama was set on either taking or over-regulating guns, American gun manufacturers saw dramatic increases in their stock prices.

Smith & Wesson stock went from roughly $2 per share to $28 per share and Ruger Firearms went from $6 per share to well over $60 per share during the Obama years.

A phenomenon heretofore unseen is a presidents ability to impact specific stocks. President Trumps use of Twitter to lash out or praise individual companies has proven effective in moving their stock prices.

The president tweeted about cost overruns on a new Air Force One and Lockheeds fighter jet and both lost billions in market share.

On the flip side, the president sent a complimentary Tweet about Lands End clothing and anti-Trump forces retaliated causing the stock to decline.

If you enjoy dabbling in stocks as I do, be very careful; a simple 140 character message can be devastating if you are on the wrong side of an issue.
 Flash

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and other top UN officials on Friday said that the world has a duty to remember that the Holocaust was a systematic attempt to eliminate the Jewish people and so many others.

Marking the International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust, Guterres noted that building a future of dignity and equality for all will honour the victims of this "incomparable tragedy in human history...who we will never allow to be forgotten."

On Jan. 27 each year, the United Nations remembers the Holocaust that affected many people of Jewish origin during World War II. This day is called the International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust. It also commemorates when the Soviet troops liberated the Nazi concentration and death camp Auschwitz-Birkenau in Poland on Jan. 27, 1945.

The secretary-general said in a video message that it would be a dangerous error to think of the Holocaust as simply the result of the insanity of a group of criminal Nazis.

"On the contrary, the Holocaust was the culmination of millennia of hatred, scapegoating and discrimination targeting the Jews, what we now call anti-Semitism," Guterres said, adding that tragically and contrary to the international community's resolve, anti-Semitism continues to thrive.

Moreover, the world is also witnessing a "deeply troubling" rise in extremism, xenophobia, racism and anti-Muslim hatred, he said. "Irrationality and intolerance are back."

Stressing that this is in complete contrast to the universal values enshrined in the UN Charter and Universal Declaration of Human Rights, he said, "We can never remain silent or indifferent when human beings are suffering."

"We must always defend the vulnerable and bring tormentors to justice. And as the theme of this year's observance highlights, a better future depends on education," he said.

"After the horrors of the 20th century, there should be no room for intolerance in the 21st," Guterres said. "I guarantee you that as Secretary-General of the United Nations, I will be in the frontline of the battle against anti-Semitism and all other forms of hatred."

Also on Friday, in his remarks, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein said the day of remembrance for the victims of the Nazi Holocaust forces the world to contemplate the horrors to which bigotry, racism and discrimination ultimately lead.

"The sadistic brutality of the atrocities inflicted by the Nazi regime on Jews, Roma, Slavs, persons with disabilities, political dissidents, homosexuals and others was nourished by layer upon layer of propaganda, falsifications and incitement to hatred," he said, adding that they were denigrated and smeared; one after another, their rights were refused, and finally, even their humanity was denied.

'It happened, therefore it can happen again,' wrote Primo Levi, who endured and survived the concentration camp at Auschwitz Birkenau, he said. "As we honour the victims of the Holocaust, we must also acknowledge the need to prevent the recurrence of anti-Semitism and all forms of racial and religious hatred and discrimination today."

It is therefore essential to uphold independent rule of law institutions and a free press, which can hold leaders to account and establish a truthful record of the facts. It is crucial to maintain respect for human rights, especially in respect of the right to life and wellbeing of all people regardless of their origin or ethnicity.

"Above all, education must be at the core of all efforts to combat anti-Semitism, racism, and all forms of discrimination. Although an important part of that work must be centred on schools and other academic fora, education in this sense must extend far more broadly, so that we can undo the stereotypes which generate so much injustice and prejudice throughout society," Zeid said.

A Holocaust Memorial Ceremony was held on Friday at UN Headquarters in New York, hosted by the the UN under-secretary-general for communications and public information, Cristina Gallach.

Speakers included Peter Thomson, the president of the UN General Assembly, Danny Danon, the permanent representative of Israel to the UN, and Michele J. Sison, the U.S. deputy permanent representative to the UN.

Noah Klieger, a 90-year old Holocaust survivor, was keynote speaker.

The ceremony also featured music by guitarist Gary Lucas and vocalist Rachel Joselson, Doctor of Music Arts and Associate Professor at the U.S. University of Iowa.

Holocaust survivors and various leaders make their voices heard on the International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust. Many of them speak publicly about the Holocaust or their experiences around the event, its aftermath and why the world should never forget what happened in Europe in the 1930s and 1940s.

Many statements emphasize the need for future generations to learn about and remember the Holocaust and for everyone to work towards preventing genocide.
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By Hezi Jiang in New York and Rena Li in Toronto | China Daily USA | Updated: 2017-01-28 00:50

North American lobsters such as this one from Canada are showing up on dinner tables for Chinese NewYear. Provided to China Daily

Will lobster one day become a Chinese New Year dinner staple like fish and dumplings?

North American distributors and Chinese e-commerce platforms are seeing a growing demand from China for Western lobster.

Despite lobster prices reaching highs in the winter due to smaller catches, China's appetite rises significantly ahead of the Lunar New Year and further drives prices up.

The Chinese name for lobster is "dragon prawn". Once cooked, the "red dragon" makes a delicious dish with lucky meaning. More Chinese are adding garlic steamed lobster and lobster congee to the most important meal of the year.

Distributors are also seeing an escalating competition. A Chinese company even chartered a plane this month to fly lobsters from Canada to China.

The Boston Lobster Co, founded in 1986, discovered the huge Chinese market six years ago. The company saw that many Chinese people who traveled to Boston, or local Chinese Americans who were going back China to visit family, would order live lobsters to take home.

Lobsters from the US and Canada are the same species, called the American lobster (Homarus americanus). However, for an undetectable reason, lobsters from North America are called "Boston lobsters" in China. Therefore, it seems that Chinese anticipate those red dragons from Beantown will arrive with extra deliciousness.

E-commerce is playing a big role in Chinese consumption of American lobsters. Retailers such as JD.com, China's second-largest e-commerce platform after Alibaba's Taobao, has been doing same-day or even two-hour delivery in major cities that could reduce the precious "out-of-water" time for live lobsters.

Josh Gartner, vice-president of international corporate affairs at JD.com, said the company has seen more than an eightfold increase in the sales of US fresh food in the three weeks leading up to the Spring Festival compared to last year.

He told China Daily there has been "an impressive, more-than-15-fold growth in sales of American lobsters", he told China Daily.

There are tens of thousands online reviews for a "Boston lobster". People share photos taken of the lobster next to their flip-flops to show how big it is. Some have their children pose for photos with the red dragon.

Canada is one of the big winners when it comes to satisfying China's palate.

In 2011, the live lobsters exported to China by Nova Scotia represented only 6 percent of the province's lobster exports. By the end of November 2016, that share had climbed to 21 percent.

The increase in Chinese demand for live lobster from Canada is a welcome development for Canadian fishery workers and exporters, said John Bitzan, country risk analyst at Export Development Canada.

"We believe that it speaks to a greater awareness of Canadian lobster in the Chinese market," he said. "It is also a testament to the growing purchasing power of the Chinese consumers."

American lobsters are sold for $20 to $25 per pound on JD.com. A small lobster is about a pound, and a larger one is about 2 pounds.

In comparison, they currently sell for about $12 per pound in North America, which is the highest price of the year. They go for $5 in the summer.

In restaurants in China, a red dragon could cost more than $100.

"I think there will be a dip in the overall price after the Chinese New Year," said Matt Egan, vice-president of sales at the Boston Lobster Co.

A bigger pie doesn't mean a larger piece for everyone.

Egan said his company has been experiencing a decline in exports to China going back a year and a half, after many other distributors discovered China.

"There is too much competition for the Chinese market," he said.

Contact the writers at hezijiang@chinadailyusa.com
British Prime Minister Theresa May listens as US President Donald Trump speaks during their joint news conference at the White House in Washington on Thursday. [Photo/Agencies]

President Donald Trump on Friday pledged America's "lasting support" to the US' historic "special relationship" with Britain after he emerged from his first meeting with British Prime Minister Theresa May.

May, who said the meeting gave the two a chance to build a relationship, announced that Trump had accepted an invitation from Queen Elizabeth II for a state visit later this year with his wife, first lady Melania Trump.

Trump sought to charm May, noting during his first news conference as president that, "by the way, my mother was born in Scotland.""I am honored to have the prime minister here for our first official visit from a foreign leader," Trump said, standing alongside May in the ornate White House East Room. "This is our first visit so, great honor."He added that the United States and the United Kingdom have "one of the great bonds.""We pledge our lasting support to this most special relationship," Trump said during brief opening remarks. "Together, America and the United Kingdom are a beacon for prosperity and the rule of law."May thanked Trump for inviting her to visit so soon after his inauguration last Friday and said their meeting was an indication of the strength and the importance of maintaining good relations between the trans-Atlantic allies. She said there was "much on which we agree.""Today's talks, I think, are a significant moment for President Trump and I to build our relationship," May said.

The Trump-May meeting came a day after Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto called off his own trip to Washington next week amid wrangling over who will pay for Trump's planned wall along the US-Mexico border.

Trump's spokesman said the president would seek a 20 percent tax on Mexican imports to pay for the barrier, then later clarified that such a tax would be a possible approach.

May's meeting with the president is being hailed by the British government as a sign that the trans-Atlantic "special relationship" is valued by the new administration.

Before answering questions from a few journalists, Trump welcomed May to the Oval Office where he promptly showed off a bust of Winston Churchill, one of her predecessors.

"It's a great honor to have Winston Churchill back," Trump said. The bust had been moved from the Oval Office to another part of the White House when Barack Obama held the office.

May's visit, so soon after Trump's inauguration, has been criticized by her political opponents, and risks being overshadowed by the flood of announcements, plans and proposals coming out of the White House. On Thursday, May was repeatedly asked about Britain's stance on torture  the UK. has condemned it  after Trump said he thinks torturing terrorism suspects works.

If we can have a great relationship with Russia, and with China, and with all countries, I'm all for that. That will be a tremendous asset. No guarantee, but if we can, that will be a positive, not negative, says President Donald Trump in joint conference with visiting British Prime Minister Theresa May.
Dr Vijay Bhatkar appointed new vice-chancellor of Nalanda University

Published: January 28, 2017

President Pranab Mukherjee has appointed Dr Vijay Bhatkar, architect of Indias first supercomputer the Param series, as the chancellor of Nalanda University.

He will have term of three years from the date of his appointment as provided under Section 11(3) of the Nalanda University Act. He shall succeed George Yeo, former Foreign Minister of Singapore, who resigned after the Board of the University was reconstituted.

About Dr Vijay Bhatkar

Dr. Bhatkar is one of the acclaimed scientists and IT leaders of India. He is best known as the architect of Indias first supercomputer Param series.

He is also known as the founder executive director of C-DAC, Indias national initiative in supercomputing. He is also credited with the creation of several national institutions.

He also was member of the scientific advisory committee to the cabinet of Union Government and as also of the governing council of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).

Bhatkar studied at the Indian Institute of Technology (Delhi) and the Maharaja Sayaji Rao University. He has been honoured with Padma Shri, Maharashtra Bhushan, Padma Bhushan (2015) awards for his contribution to field of science and technology.

About Nalanda University

Nalanda University revived version of ancient Nalanda University located at Rajgir in Nalanda District in Bihar.

It is a non-state, non-profit, secular and self-governing international institution. Its idea was mooted by former President APJ Abdul Kalam in 2006.

It was established through Nalanda University Act, 2010. It functions under Ministry of External Affairs.

It is mandated to be engaged in the pursuit of intellectual, philosophical, historical and spiritual studies

Note: The ancient Nalanda University was established in 427 AD during the reign of Gupta king Sakraditya. It was one of Indias earliest university. At its peak, it had attracted scholars and students from near and far with some travelling all the way from Tibet, China, Korea, and Central Asia

Month: Current Affairs - January, 2017

Topics: appointments  Education  Nalanda University  National  Persons in News  Vice Chancellor  Vijay Bhatkar

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Wang Peng (center), assistant teaching professor of East Asian languages and cultures at Georgetown University, leads the first Chinese Salon hosted by the Confucius Institute US Center Tuesday night in Washington. The newly launched program provides a platform for advanced Mandarin students to gather and discuss Chinese culture and society. Yuan Yuan / for China Daily

Along with the Chinese New Year, a new Chinese Salon program initiated by the Confucius Institute US Center (CIUS) held its inaugural event on Tuesday, offering advanced Mandarin students in the Washington area free classes as well as opportunities to communicate with other Mandarin speakers to sharpen their language skills.

"Hopefully through this new program, we offer the opportunity for those who are interested in China and in learning Mandarin to gradually build up a community based on their common interest," said Gao Qing, executive director of the Confucius Institute US Center, who is also an assistant professor of international arts management at George Mason University and the director of the university's Confucius Institute.

Prior to the Chinese Salon, only a handful of groups  mostly formed casually and at the grass-roots level  offered such an opportunity for Washington's Mandarin students.

"In Washington DC, there seems to be a lack of opportunities for young professionals to practice their Chinese, specifically non-Chinese-born individuals," said Zachary Bomberger, the center's program assistant who organizes the event.

Providing this kind of platform is the mission of the Confucius Institute, a non-profit public educational organization affiliated with the Chinese Ministry of Education and similar to the UK's British Council and Germany's Goethe Institute.

"We knew there was a considerable amount of advanced Mandarin learners around this area, but we were not sure of their number or actual needs," Gao said.

Last fall, through Wang Peng, assistant teaching professor of East Asian languages and cultures at Georgetown University, the center reached out to a group of Mandarin lovers and started to plan the salon program.

"We made a general plan to have a topic and select a passage each time to facilitate the specific topics," Wang said.

Due to the proximity of this weekend's Chinese New Year, they decided to kick the salon off on Tuesday evening with a festive atmosphere at the center's offices on Massachusetts Avenue.

Through a true-or-false quiz, a folk song and riddles about characters and words, Wang discussed the Spring Festival and the aspects of fu, meaning good fortune, with the students.

Participants will gather at the center every two weeks and discuss a specific topic picked by Wang, or another Chinese language professor, according to the plan.

In order to insure every participant has a chance to talk, class size is limited to 30.

Wang plans to cover such topics as Chinese folk customs, language, culture, politics and economics.

"We really want to get feedback from our participants to learn more about their interests and needs to help us better prepare our programs," Gao said.

The first salon gave Wang a good idea of the participants' level of Chinese.

Benjamin Creutzfeldt, a researcher on Chinese foreign policy at the John Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies who has been studying Chinese for 25 years, came to the salon because he wanted a way to keep his Chinese ability up and the location is right next door to his work place.

"It's an interesting experiment to try getting people together," he said. "At the moment, it has been very guided by the host. Over time, maybe it can become more social.

"Cultural topics are fun to talk about, but they are more for beginners. Most people who come here seem to have quite a good level of Chinese, we can talk about more serious stuff," he said.

"Individuals can come together to network with others as they otherwise may not be able to. It's good to be able to make friends and really put yourself in an environment that forces you out of your comfort zone," Bomberger said.

Before coming to the Chinese Salon, Kadidia Konare, a staffer at the International Finance Corporation, only had one-on-one Chinese classes with her teacher.

"It's very useful," she said. "I've been looking for ways to practice Chinese, and it's always nice to come to a different group."

For her, meeting with other learners pushes her to work harder one her Chinese.

"I know I'm not the best," she said. "I will definitely continue to come to the Chinese Salon."

Starting out with only advanced Chinese speakers, "hopefully over time, with more building on to the event, we can have advanced to intermediate and maybe down the line cater to individuals who have beginning Chinese or no Chinese at all," Bomberger said.

Yuan Yuan in Washington contributed to the story.
MEXICO CITY - Mexico's President Enrique Pena Nieto and his US counterpart Donald Trump on Friday agreed to keep a bitter and ongoing dispute over a border wall project out of the public realm, the office of the presidency said.

The two "spoke for an hour by telephone," a day after Pena Nieto cancelled a meeting with Trump that was to take place on Tuesday.

Pena Nieto cancelled the visit after Trump tweeted there was no point in meeting if Mexico was not prepared to pay for a wall along the US' southern border.

In a statement, the presidency said, "in regard to paying for the border wall, both presidents acknowledged their clear and very public positions on such a sensitive issue, and agreed to resolve these differences as part of a comprehensive discussion on all aspects of the bilateral relationship."

Both "also agreed to not talk about this controversial matter in public for now."

Pena Nieto and Trump have instructed their teams "to continue to dialogue to strengthen this important strategic and economic relationship in a constructive way," his office added.

The leaders had a "constructive and productive conversation" on bilateral ties, "including the US' trade deficit with Mexico, the importance of the friendship between our two nations, the need for our countries to work together to stop drug trafficking and the illegal flow of arms," the office said.

Surprisingly, no mention was made of illegal immigration from Latin America, especially Mexico, to the US.

Trump has said the wall is needed to keep out illegal migrants, as well as prevent trafficking.

The call was "arranged by their work teams," the office said.
File photos of US President Donald Trump (L) and British Prime Minister Theresa May .

WASHINGTON - US President Donald Trump is "100 percent" behind NATO, British Prime Minister Theresa May said Friday as she paid a visit to the United States.

"On defense and security cooperation, we are united in our recognition of NATO as the bulwark of our collective defense, and today we've reaffirmed our unshakable commitment to this alliance," May said at a joint press conference following a meeting with Trump.

"Mr. President, I think you said, you confirmed that you're 100 percent behind NATO," she added.

In a recent interview, Trump said NATO was "obsolete because it was not taking care of terror," and he complained that various members of the bloc were not paying their dues, which was "very unfair to the United States."

However, Trump added that NATO was very important to him.

May is the first foreign leader to hold face-to-face talks with Trump after he was inaugurated a week as the new U.S. President.

At the press conference on Friday, May said she will ensure that other European leaders follow through on their commitments to NATO.

"We're also discussing the importance of NATO continuing to ensure it is as equipped to fight terrorism and cyber warfare as it is to fight more conventional forms of war," May said.

The British leader added that she will also continue to encourage other European leaders to deliver on their commitments to spend 2 percent of their country's GDP on defense "so that the burden is more fairly shared."
US President Donald Trump waves upon his arrival at the White House from Philadelphia, in Washington DC, the United States, on Jan 26, 2017. US President Donald Trump wants a 20-percent border tax on all imports from Mexico, said White House spokesman Sean Spicer on Thursday. [Photo/Xinhua]

WASHINGTON - US President Donald Trump signed an executive order Friday enacting a vetting process for refugees coming into the United States, in the name of guarding against terrorist threats.

"We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas," Trump said, while pointing the finger at the "radical Islamic terrorists" as he signed the document in the Pentagon.

The White House released no details of the document, but media reports suggested that it may include an indefinite ban on Syrian refugees and a four-month ban on all refugees as the US government assesses the level of risks in each country.

Reports have also suggested that the United States would refrain from giving visas to citizens of Iran, Sudan, Syria, Libya, Somalia, Yemen and Iraq, whose governments were on the US list of sponsors of terrorism or countries of concern.

The new measure, Trump said on Wednesday, is not equivalent to the Muslim ban he proposed during the presidential elections.

In the same ceremony, Trump also signed an executive order to beef up the US military.

"I'm signing an executive action to begin a great rebuilding of the armed services of the United States, developing a plan for new planes, new ships, new resources, and new tools for our men and women in uniform," he said.

The move came as multiple figures in the new administration, including the newly appointed Defense Secretary James Mattis and Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Director Mike Pompeo, believed the present capacity of the US military is insufficient to counter emerging threats to US security and interests worldwide.
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(Photo : Getty Images) China and the US consider microchip technology as a crucial cog in their national security and economy.

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Amid growing tensions between the two countries, China's technology ministry is trying to play down Beijing's semiconductor ambitions, saying that the United States' concerns over the issue are exaggerated.



Chinese government officials have been surprised by the US's backlash towards Beijing's efforts to advance its chip sector, especially considering that many of China's programs are still being drawn up.



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"There's been unnecessary panic. We don't want US and China to have these conflicts," said Peng Hongbing, vice director of information and technology at China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology.



China's tech ministry is responsible for the development and regulation of advanced technology.



Peng was involved in drafting plans to build China's semiconductor industry.



Peng's remarks are a reflection of the views held by the Chinese government. Officials in China are trying to play down their economic rivalry with the US, amid strongly worded attacks from US President Donald Trump over China's trade practices.



In recent weeks, Chinese government officials have been initiating contact with US trade groups. They have also been speaking more openly to Western media in a bid to send a message to Trump's administration.



One of the areas of contention is the tiny chips that power computers used in any device from smartphones to missiles.



The chips are evidence of the technological self-sufficiency that China craves, and the manufacturing monopoly that the US wants to retain.



China and the US consider the technology as a crucial cog in their national security and economy.



Nathaniel Ahrens, director of China affairs at the University of Maryland, said that semiconductors are the "holy grail" for China and the US.



In its final year in power, the Obama administration responded to concerns by US chipmakers by taking a closer look at China's huge investments in the industry and blocked one deal in December.



Trump's administration is expected to continue the hardline stance on China's semiconductor ambitions.



According to estimates by the departing Obama administration, China plans to invest $150 billion over the next decade to support its technological advancement.



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Tagschina, US, donald trump, Semiconductor, chips
(Photo : Getty Images. ) According to reports in Chinese media, China may be testing long-range air-to-air missile that may easily take down early warning aircraft and aerial refuelling aircraft.

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China may be in the process of testing long-range air-to-air missile that could easily target early warning aircraft and aerial refuelling aircraft, a state-run newspaper claimed on Thursday.



The English newspaper China Daily said that the Chinese army uploaded photos on their website of a J-11B fighter carrying a large, unidentified missile during the military drill last year.



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Air force researcher Fu Qianshao informed the newspaper that the missile may have been designed to target distant high value targets like early warning aircraft that are normally located outside conventional combat zones.



He stressed that "successful development of this potential new missile would be a major breakthrough" while claiming that the missile may even exceed an actual range of 400 km (249 miles).



If this claim is true then this would be a major improvement over existing Chinese missiles, which can target aircrafts only within the range of 100 km (62 miles).



The Chinese air force or People's Liberation Army (PLA) is yet to officially comment on the new missile. However, the Chinese media rarely reports about new weapons unless they anticipate a confirmation from the Chinese army.



The Chinese government is currently carrying out an ambitious military modernization program that aims to include advanced stealth jets, aircraft carriers and anti-satellite missiles in the Chinese army.



The military modernization drive comes amid China's increasing assertiveness in the South China Sea region, where China continues to claim territorial rights despite the historic ruling by the international arbitration court last year.



Earlier this month, China's first aircraft carrier the 'Liaoning' passed through Taiwan Strait, which quickly prompted Taiwan to fighter jets and navy ships in the region.



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TagsChinese missiles, china, Chinese military, China Military Modernization
(Photo : Getty Images. ) Animal rights activists and politicians in New Zealand have raised concern over government's decision to allow a Saudi businessman to export nearly 5,000 cows to China.

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Saudi businessman 'Sheik Hamood Al-Ali Al-Khalaf' is currently in the eye of storm of animal welfare organizations in New Zealand as he is all set to export nearly 5,000 cows to Mainland China.



The opposition is owing to the fact that Mr Al-Khalaf's company has a chequered record in exporting bulk animals, causing mass death of animals in the past.



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According to reports in New Zealand media, Ministry for Primary Industries has received an export application from Khalaf's company Awassi Express to export 5,300 dairy breeding cattle to China. The cows are due to be docked from coastal city of Naiper in just matter of few days.



Animal right activists and politicians are concerned about treatment these cows will be receiving during the long voyage and also whether right protocols will be followed during their slaughtering.



"We need to be assured they have the very highest standards of animal welfare both on the ship and then of course once they get to China," said Damien O'Connor, Labour Party primary industry spokesperson.



The director of Safe, a prominent animal welfare organization, Hans Kriek claimed that there is no guarantee that these cows would be treated humanely after reaching their final destination.



"They will be slaughtered, for instance, without stunning as is required in New Zealand," Hans said.



The leader of New Zealand First party, Winston Peters, has also raised red flag over livestock export. He termed the government's decision to allow nearly 5,000 cows to be exported as an 'economic treason.'



"It does beg the question, is New Zealand benefiting from such a large export of high-quality genetic material from our dairy industry?" Winston said.



Mr. Khalaf has reportedly invested huge amount of money in New Zealand's dairy and livestock industry.



Apparently, almost two years ago New Zealand government had signed a controversial deal with Mr. Khalaf's company to export 900 heavily-pregnant lambs to Saudi Arabia. The deal came under the scanner as it was reported that government gave more than $11 million in cash as well as livestock equipments to the company.



However, an official last year found no evidence of corruption in the deal, but criticized the government over the way it carried out transaction.



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(Photo : Getty Images) Turkic-speaking Uighurs, living in northwest China and practicing Sunni Islam, have strengthened their campaign for independence since the early 1990s.

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In late January, Pentagon spokesperson Captain Jeff Davis said that "U.S manned and unmanned aircraft conducted a precision airstrike on January 19 against an Al Qaeda camp in Idlib Province, Syria."



According to Captain Davis, more than 100 Al Qaeda fighters were killed in the airstrike.



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The news was important to China, as many of the fighters killed in the airstrike were Uighurs of the Turkestan Islamic Party.



The Uighurs are fighting under the umbrella of Jabhat Fateh-al-Sham. During the US airstrike, a Uighur Jihadist known as Abu Omar al-Turkistani was killed.



al-Turkistani was one of the four top leaders of the Turkistan Islamic Party (TIP), which is affiliated with Al Qaeda.



In China, Turkic-speaking Uighurs, living in northwest China and practicing Sunni Islam, have strengthened their campaign for independence since the early 1990s.



The independence of former Central Asian countries such as Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan partly galvanized an awakening of national identity among Chinese Uighurs.



Central Asia and the Muslim-dominated Xinjiang region of China have a common language and culture.



The Uighurs often use the term "Turkestan" in national liberation and religious movements. The Islamic Movement of Eastern Turkestan, International Committee of Eastern Turkestan and several other Uighur liberation movements have used this term.



All these liberation movements have been officially labeled as terrorist groups, and have been banned in China.



Among the groups, the Turkestan Islamic Party is the biggest financially, militarily, and ideologically. It is also the most influential. The group has become the core of Uighur fighters abroad.



The Syrian civil war and the growing influence of Uighur separatist in the global Jihadist movement have forced China to modify its Middle East foreign policy.



China supports Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, and his allies Russia and Iran.



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Tagschina, Syria, Uighurs
(Photo : Getty Images) Jack Ma has praised Trump saying he is a "smart person."

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Alibaba executive chairman Jack Ma has said that China's short-term economic outlook will be tougher than expected, and that trade friction with the United States was inevitable.



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"In the coming three to five years...the economic situation will be even more arduous than everyone had expected," the Alibaba founder said on Wednesday during an annual meeting of the General Association of Zhejiang Entrepreneurs, a private business association that he chairs.



Ma's comments come as reports emerge that China is planning to lower its growth target for this year.



On Thursday, Western media cited policy sources saying China would lower its economic growth target for 2017 to about 6.5 percent, down from 6.5 to 6.7 percent last year.



The move by China will reinforce a policy shift from supporting growth towards reforms to contain debt and house risks.



Last year, China recorded its lowest economic growth in 26 years. The country's economy grew by about 6.7 percent.



During the meeting, Ma said that it "was only natural" that China's rapid economic growth over the past three decades would slow down.



Ma added that China should shift its focus to the quality of growth, such as upgrading its manufacturing industry.



Ma also voiced his views on China-U.S. relations, as well as his impression of U.S. President Donald Trump, who he met recently at the Trump Towers in New York.



Ma said that conflicts between the U.S. and China are to be expected.



"If the conflicts were not dealt with properly, they might lead to a relatively big trade war," Ma said, adding that such a trade war would not augur well for China, the U.S. or the world economy.



Ma added that Trump should not be underestimated.



Ma said that although Trump's speaking style and his way of doing things are different from what people are used to from politicians, he has seen the many problems now existing in the U.S., and hopes to solve them in a different way.



Ma said that he believes Trump is a "very smart person."



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Tagschina, US, US-China relations, Alibaba, Jack Ma
(Photo : Getty Images) China has ominously warned that war between China and the U.S. would mean the end of U.S. history, or even worse, the end of humanity.

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China is stepping up its preparedness for a possible military conflict with the US.



This comes as United President Donald Trump signals that he intends to follow a more hard-line policy in a bid to counter China's claims to the disputed South China Sea.



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In addition to the South China Sea issue, Trump has also accused China of unfair trade practices.



In a commentary on its official website on January 20, the day that Trump officially assumed office, China's People Liberation Army (PLA) said that the chances of war has become more real amid a more complex security situation in the Asia-Pacific.



The commentary, which was written by an official at the defense mobilization department in China's Central Military Commission, said that the U.S. call for rebalancing of its Asia strategy, military deployments in the East and South China Seas, and the setting up of a missile defense system in South Korea could potentially ignite war between the two countries.



"'A war within the President's term' or 'war breaking out tonight' are not just slogans, they are becoming a political reality," the commentary stated.



In another commentary on Sunday, China's Official People's Daily said China's military would conduct exercises on the high seas, regardless of provocations by foreigners.



The commentary went on to refer to comments by Rex Tillerson, Trump's nominee for secretary of state. Tillerson had said that the U.S. should strive to block China from accessing the artificial islands it has built on the South China Sea.



The commentary warned that with their threats to China, Trump and Tillerson are making "rookie blunders" that will only hurt the credibility of the U.S.



China accused Tillerson of being too arrogant; warning that such an attitude towards Beijing would potentially lead to war between China and the U.S.



The statement went on to ominously warn that war between China and the U.S. would mean the end of U.S. history, or even worse, the end of humanity.



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Tagschina, US, donald trump, South China Sea, rex tillerson
(Photo : US Navy) USS Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group.

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China's state propaganda machine is now openly speculating a war between China and the United States is likelier now than ever before due to openly hostile anti-China statements by U.S. President Donald Trump and ranking members of his new administration.



An op-ed piece on the website of the People's Liberation Army (PLA), the armed forces of the Communist Party of China (CPC), said the PLA is raising its level of preparedness so it can fight a war should ties between Beijing and Washington cross the point of no return.



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The coming war will be a naval war where the qualitatively and quantitatively inferior People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) will seek to prevent the more powerful U.S. Navy from invading China's man-made islands and those it unlawfully took from the Philippines in the South China Sea.



A naval war is expected to end quickly in a Chinese defeat.



Dennis Blair, who was the United States' Director of National Intelligence from 2009 to 2010 and former Commander, United States Pacific Command (USPACOM) from 1999 to 2002, in late 2016 estimated offensive operations by the U.S. Navy and Air Force to seize China's illegally occupied islands will only be "probably 10 or 15 minutes' worth of worth of work for U.S. forces."



Blair is confident the U.S. Navy and the Air Force are capable of rapidly "neutralizing" China's outposts in the South China Sea, which are practically defenseless from a determined attack since they're isolated and strung out over hundreds of kilometers of sea.



China's heavily hyped DF-21 anti-ship ballistic missile is still under development and its immature kill chain might prevent it from even acquiring fast moving U.S. Navy carrier strike groups hundreds of kilometers distant.



The PLA said the chances of war today have become "more real" amid a more complex security situation in the Asia Pacific. The op-ed said the call for a U.S. rebalancing to Asia; military deployments in the East China Sea and South China Sea and the instillation of the THAAD missile defense system in South Korea are hot spots moving closer to ignition.



"'A war within the president's term' or 'war breaking out tonight' are not just slogans, they are becoming a practical reality," said the story.



PLAN, however, is in no condition to fight a war since its command structure is in complete disarray. It reshuffled its senior command since the start of January and is now led by admirals that have been at their posts for only two weeks.



PLAN appointed a new commander, as well as new commanders for it three fleets -- the North, East and South Sea Fleets -- over the past two weeks.



PLAN is now commanded by Vice Admiral Shen Jinlong. Vice Admiral Wang Hai was promoted to Commander of the South Sea Fleet.



Rear Admiral Zhang Wendan is now the Commander of the North Sea Fleet. Rear Admiral Wei Gang was promoted to Commander of the East Sea Fleet.



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Tagschina, United States, war, South China Sea, People's Liberation Army, People's Liberation Army Navy, PLAN, Vice-Admiral Shen Jinlong
(Photo : Getty Images) NBA basketball legends Mugsy Bogues (1.60 meters) and Yao Ming (2.29 meters).

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The relative impact of genetics on height doesn't increase with improvements to the standard of living.



These are among the findings of an international research group that analyzed the impact of genetic and environmental factors on adult height over a span of more than a century. The research inluded 40 twin cohorts, including more than 143,000 twin pairs from 20 countries.



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The published study shows no clear trend is apparent in the proportion of height variation explained by genetic differences between individuals, or heritability, between birth year cohorts from 1886 and 1994.



"Our results do not support the assumption that the heritability of height increases as the standard of living improves and extreme poverty is reduced," said researcher Aline Jelenkovic from the University of Helsinki.



When geographical-cultural regions were studied separately, height variation was lowest in East Asia and greatest in North America and Australia. The geographical differences in height variation can be attributed to both genetics and environment.



Hereditability estimates by geographical-cultural regions did not show a pattern across birth cohorts.



"Even though mean height has increased over the 20th century as standards of living have improved, this is not reflected in the heritability of height," said Jelenkovic.



Variation in adult height in human populations is caused by individual genetic differences and environmental factors.



Twin and family studies have consistently shown the proportion of height variation attributable to individual genetic differences is some 80%. There has been a long-term hypothesis that the impact of genetic factors is weaker in populations with low living standards can lead to a lack of basic necessities, which are important for human growth.



Environment, however, is more significant for women's height.



The study showed that height variation caused by genetic differences was generally more pronounced among men than women. Conversely, environmental factors had a bigger impact on the height variation among women.



"This is to say that women's growth is not more resistant to environmental influences than that of men," said Jelenkovic.



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TagsGenetics, height, standard of living, Aline Jelenkovic, Hereditability, Environment
(Photo : Russian Aerospace Forces) MiG-35.

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A persistent lack of money has delayed the expected deliveries of the Mikoyan MiG-35 air superiority fighter for testing and evaluation by the Egyptian Air Force and the Russian Air Force.



The evaluations were supposed to have taken place at the end of 2016 and two MiG-35s delivered to Egypt. In July 2016, United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), the conglomerate that includes Russian Aircraft Corporation MiG, said it was completing the general assembly stage, and should move to flight tests according to schedule.



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"We will begin state tests as part of the Ministry of Defense program at the end of summer (2016). The tests will be carried out until next year," said General Director Sergey Korotkov.



Those tests were to have begun in January 2017 and failed to take place due to funding shortfalls.



The delay belies the claim made in December 2016 by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin that test flights of fourth-generation MiG-35 jet will begin in January 2017.



This generation 4.5 (or generation 4++) fighter made by Russian Aircraft Corporation MiG is in the same league as the Sukhoi Su-35S.



Egypt signed a contract in April 2015 for 50 MiG -35s worth over $2 billion, and has made a down payment on this order. Egypt's MiG-35s will be equipped with high precision targeting pods.



In contrast, the Russian Air Force has ordered only 37 MiG -35s worth $1.1 billion but has delayed acquiring the jet because of government spending cuts. Development of Russia's MiG-35 should be completed in 2017 while entry into service with the Russian Air Force is scheduled for 2018.



The main customer for the MiG -35, however, was supposed to be the Indian Air Force and the jet was first unveiled at the Aero India 2007 air show in Bangalore. The MiG -35 was one of six contenders for India's multi-role combat aircraft competition that would see 126 jets on order.



France's Dassault Rafale eventually won this competition and the loss was a huge blow to cash-strapped Russia.



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TagsMikoyan MiG-35, Russian Air Force, Egypt, United Aircraft Corporation, Russian Aircraft Corporation MiG, Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin
Religious Mystery Novel Exposes Global Christian Zionist Plot

Contact: Sam Jane Brown, + 44 787 8063263; www.samjanebrown.com

LONDON, Jan. 28, 2017 /Christian Newswire/ -- "Forgotten Word," Sam Jane Brown's popular, provocative first novel, exposes a global Christian Zionist plot, the author announced today.



The religious-themed mystery, which delivers a surprise ending, can be read in ways that reveal the global machinations of the Christian Zionists who are intent on dominating the Middle East through false flags and cutouts, such as the Jewish people.

"There's what you see, what you think is going on and what is really going on in the world," Brown said. "When you start to understand how the Middle East actually functions and who is pulling whose strings, you'll be shocked beyond words. This is the story told in my book. It will blow your mind."

"Forgotten Word" website (www.samjanebrown.com)," takes on this issue. In the story, Zena McGrath is a detective working for an International Police Organization. A routine day is turned upside down when she receives a call from her boss in the New York office. A number of Catholic Priests have died in mysterious circumstances.

The mystery quickly dives into a shadowy underworld of religious intrigue that includes many references to the Christian Zionist plot to control Israel. This story has been told also by such global intellectual luminaries as the UK's David Ickes. Ickes, who writes extensively on this subject, explains that the world misunderstands Zionism by characterizing it as an exclusively Jewish movement.

In addition to being false, this idea -- promoted by the globally powerful Rothschild family --both deflects awareness away from the real issue while insulating the secret cabal from criticism by shielding it with the false accusation of "anti-Semitism" against anyone who questions their motives and actions. Indeed, many religious Jews are actually anti-Zionist or non-Zionist, firming believing that only God can create a true state of Israel. They believe secular leaders like David Ben Gurion and Golda Meir had no business setting up an Israeli state without divine intervention.

As Brown's book reveals, it is Christian Zionists like the American pastor, John Hagee, who are manipulating the Jews and the State of Israel to deliver it into Christian hands. Their goal, according to the book's gripping plot, is to prepare Jerusalem for the second coming of Jesus Christ. But, as Brown's book describes, they're in for a big surprise.



For more information, visit www.samjanebrown.com, soon to be feature film.
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Super Bowl week is going to be a crazy time for Houston restaurants. But in addition to being busy, next week will also probably be a poignant time for chef Richard Knight at Hunky Dory.

The former Feast chef who joined the Treadsack restaurant group as the executive chef of Hunky Dory when it opened in October 2015 is leaving after Super Bowl. His last day will be Feb. 5.

"I've had a wonderful experience putting together this restaurant  from the Kipper Club dinners, charity dinners, and loads of other fun stuff along the way," Knight said in a statement released Friday afternoon. "It's been great, but it's time for me to move on."

Treadsack owner Chris Cusack said Knight is parting on good terms to pursue other opportunities that include a project with his wife, Carrie Jean Knight. "It's sad when things change," he said, "But I'm happy for Richard and Carrie."

Knight's departure, which has been in the works for several weeks, leaves the inevitable question of who will lead Hunky Dory. That job falls to chef Graham Laborde, executive chef of Bernadine's, the restaurant attached to Hunky Dory at 1801 N. Shepherd.

Laborde will become culinary director of both restaurants, according to Cusack. He added that both restaurants will remain open as separate concepts under the same roof. Bernadine's will continue its Gulf Coast/southern route while Hunky Dory will remain an inventive British pub-inspired eatery and bar.

"I'm excited to take on the challenge of running two strong kitchens here in the Heights," Laborde said in a statement. "Richard has left some big shoes to fill, but he has a great team and a fantastic menu. We'll do our best to make him proud."

Laborde's Bernadine's came in at No. 9 in Alison Cook's list of Houston's Top 100 restaurants for 2016.

Hunky Dory was Treadsack's first major culinary venture after 2011's Down House. Knight, who made a name at the nose-to-tail Feast, wowed Houston foodies with his creative, often lavish take on British pub food including his much-talked-about Cake Stand Pork Chops (a slew of grilled pork chops stacked on a cake stand and dripping with schmaltz) and his Silver Salver, a showy presentation tray groaning with cheese, hare pie, chicken liver mousse, piccalilli, and gentleman's relish.

Friday's news of Knight's departure and Labord's promotion comes at a curious time for the Treadsack group. In December, Foreign Correspondents restaurant closed the day after its chefs, the husband-and-wife team of PJ and Apple Stoops, left the business they opened with Treadsack in October 2015.

According to a report by the Chronicle's restaurant critic Alison Cook, the 144-seat restaurant serving Northern Thai food found it difficult to attract a steady customer base. Aside from Houston Restaurant Weeks, "we had never really made money," Stoops said.

Immediately after Foreign Correspondents closing, Treadsack announced that Canard, its boutique bar next door (they shared the same strip mall address at 4721 N. Main), was shuttering. Canard, which had opened only in March 2016, closed at the end of the year.

Treadsack's reputation took a hit when the Houston Press reported in January that the Texas Comptroller's Office was threatening to seize Treadsack's cash for back taxes and that the IRS hit the business with $1.1 million in liens. According to reporter Craig Malisow, the company's financial problems were probably a result of the brisk expansion Treadsack undertook in 2015 when it opened Hunky Dory in October 2015 and Bernadine's 'n December 2015 followed by Canard in March 2016.

"Based on internal memos obtained by the Press, the expansion appears to have caused delays in paying state and federal taxes  as well as bonds  leading to frozen accounts and employees' dealing with bounced paychecks and canceled health care benefits," according to the Houston Press article.

Cusack did not address specific allegations. When asked if the article hurt business at the company's other brands (Down House, D&T Drive Inn, Hunky Dory, Bernadine's, Johnny's Gold Brick, and Sugar & Rice magazine), Cusack said no.

"Not at all. In fact, there's been a groundswell of support from people who know our commitment to the neighborhood and know our business," he said.
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Donald Trump will soon be traveling to the United Kingdom after Queen Elizabeth extended an invitation to the president.

News of the trip sparked the Twitter-verse to resurface one of Trump's tweet from 2012 that Trump posted after the paparazzi snapped, circulated photos of Kate Middleton sunbathing topless while on vacation.

MORE CONTROVERSY: People outraged at Melania Trump Vanity Fair Mexico cover as husband pushes border wall

The post, which reads, "who wouldn't take Kate's picture and make lots of money if she does the nude sunbathing thing. Come on Kate," led to outrage at such a vulgar comment supporting the invasion of Middleton's privacy.

Twitter users came to Middleton's defense in 2012 making comments like "please tell me you're joking. It's called PRIVACY. She deserves it. Don't cheer on these pitiful paparazzi's!! #rude."

Now that the post has come back into the spotlight, commentors have shown the same outrage.

"Once a disgusting pig, always a disgusting pig, Trump. Husband/Father/Grandfather of year, aren't ya," said one user.

Another user pointed out the hypocrisy or the tweet by posting "didn't you get mad at cnn [sic] for using a picture of your face that you didn't like?"

The trip is planned for later this year, and it is still not clear which member of the royal family will be in attendance.

Take a look through the gallery above to see other vulgar comments Donald Trump has made about women.
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Paul Michael Slayton, better known to millions as Houston rapper Paul Wall, appeared in Houston court for a routine hearing Friday related to drug and criminal activity charges.

Slayton, 35, and nine others were arrested Dec. 23 during a "smoke session" in The Heights and charged with engaging in organized criminal activity and manufacture and delivery of a controlled substance for allegedly selling large amounts of THC to "weed parties."

Slayton, and fellow rapper Ronald Ray Bryant, known as Baby Bash, were in court for a routine hearing Friday but did not appear before the judge.

Slayton's attorney Jolando Jones denied the charges in a Dec. 27 court appearance. During that hearing, Slayton said he would likely test positive for several types of prescription drugs.

"Everything they think they know is just not there," Jones said. She also said Slayton has a back problem and may have prescriptions for several of the drugs.

Staff writer Brian Rogers contributed to this report.
FARMINGTON  Glen Rudoff Weedman, formerly of Farmington passed away January 25, 2017, at the age of 78. He was born January 7, 1939, at Senath, Missouri, the son of the late Virgil Leroy Weedman and Corine (Long) Weedman. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a son, Greg Weedman in 2000; a granddaughter, Stephanie Weedman; and two sisters, Retha Keating and Wilma Coons.

Glen was a proud veteran of the United States Army having served from 1957 to 1959. He retired from General Motors after a 30 plus year career there. After retirement he enjoyed driving for SMTS for many years. He developed many good friendships with the many people he drove while working there. His children will remember fondly the automotive repair skills they learned from their dad as he loved working on vehicles and teaching those skills. He also liked the outdoors and going camping.

Survivors include four sons, Keith Jordan, Ralph Weedman, Mark Weedman and Ronnie Weedman; one daughter, Terri Milam; twelve grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Carolyn Bollinger and Melba Fitzmaurice.

Friends may call from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Cozean Memorial Chapel on Tuesday, January 31, 2017. Visitation will resume on Wednesday morning beginning at 7 a.m. until the funeral beginning at 10 a.m. in the Cozean Chapel. Interment with military honors will follow at Three Rivers Cemetery. Memorials, if desired, may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project. View the video tribute, the online obituary and share your condolences at cozeanfuneralhome.com.
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A man walking on a sidewalk in East Houston died after a drive-by shooter struck him several times Friday night.

The man was on Sultan near Homewood when a vehicle pulled up about 11:15 p.m. Someone inside the vehicle opened fire, striking the victim three times in the leg, side and head.

He collapsed in front of a home, whose residents heard the shots and tried to help the victim.

The man was taken to the hospital in critical condition and later died. His name has not yet been released.

Houston homicide detectives ask anyone with information to call HPD Homicide at 713-308-3600 or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS (8477).
NEW YORKAn Iraqi refugee bound for Houston was released on Saturday night after being detained for 22 hours at JFK Airport. He was one of the first people prevented from entering the U.S. under President Donald Trump's executive orders restricting immigration and is central to a lawsuit challenging the order.

A temporary stay was granted by a federal judge in the case late Saturday that allows detainees with visas at airports to stay in the country temporarily.

Haider Sameer Abdulkhaleq Alshawi was on his way to live with his wife and 7-year-old son, who had previously come to Houston as refugees. "I'm very happy," he told a small group of reporters at the Terminal 4 arrivals hall through an interpreter. He wore a black jacket and gray shirt and had a full face of stubble. "I'm very tired, but I'm very happy," he said.

Alshawi had received a visa on Jan. 11 to join his wife, who had worked for a U.S. contractor in Iraq. When they lived in Iraq, the family was a victim of a kidnapping attempt and car bombing because of their connection to America, his lawyers said.

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His latest ordeal started when he arrived in New York last night on a Norwegian Air flight from Stockholm, where he lived for the last year and a half. Right away, he said, a customs agent told him he would have to "go back to Iraq." He said he was asked "every question" imaginable by a series of officials, and was only allowed to call his family once.

Alshawi was one of two Iraqi refugees named as plaintiffs in an ACLU lawsuit on Saturday morning against the Trump administration, alleging that the executive orders violated the Fifth Amendment and the Immigration and Nationality Act. The other plaintiff in the ACLU lawsuit, Hameed Khalid Darweesh, a former interpreter for the U.S. Army, was released from JFK after 17 hours of detention and an intervention from two members of Congress.

The ACLU lawyer handling the case, Andre Segura, said he hadn't been allowed to meet with Alshawi at all before his release. It's not clear exactly who made the decision to let Alshawi go free Segura said about 30 minutes before Alshawi was released, a Customs and Border Protection official told him the order had come "from the top."

Alshawi is staying in New York Saturday and flying to Houston to meet his family Sunday. "I'm going to hug them for a very long time," he said.

As Alshawi waited for customs officials to decide whether he would be allowed into the country, several thousand pro-refugee protesters demonstrated outside the terminal where he was being held. Chants of "let them in!" and "racists out, refugees in" could be heard inside the terminal. Similar protests took place at airports around the U.S.

"Without this pressure from everyone outside, I think I would have had to return to Iraq," Alshawi said.

The tightly-packed protest grew as the day went on, with New Yorkers braving cold temperatures and scattered flurries of snow. Some demonstrators waved handmade signs, while others shouted from the airport parking garage. At least one demonstrator made a sign with Alshawi's name on it.

Lisa Sbranna said she felt like she had to be there because "this country is founded on immigrant rights."

"If people like [Alshawi] can be detained, we're all one step away from having it happen to us," she said.

"This is not the America I know," said Somia Hassan, who wore a sequined gray hijab. She said her mother had just canceled a trip to see family in Yemen because she was worried she wouldn't be allowed back into the U.S.  even though she has a green card.

Hassan said she was scared of what's in store for immigrants in Trump's America, but inspired by the passionate protest she saw. "I cried when I first saw this," she said.

The lawsuit, filed Saturday by team of lawyers led by a Yale Law School professor, states that Alshawi's wife worked for two years as an accountant for a U.S. military contractor, where her brother also worked. Neighbors said the family would be targeted by insurgents for collaborating with the occupying forces.

In 2010, insurgents tried to kidnap the wife's brother, according to the lawsuit. A month later a targeted car bombing killed a different relative. The family left Baghdad for another city.

Under a program that let former employees of U.S. and coalition contractors move to the U.S. after a long vetting process, the wife and child arrived in Houston in January 2014, the lawsuit states. The region resettles more refugees than almost any other metropolitan area in the country, according to U.S. State Department data.

Harris County alone welcomes about 30 of every 1,000 refugees that the United Nations resettles anywhere in the world - more than any other American city, and more than most other nations. If Houston were a country, it would rank fourth in the world for refugee resettlement.

READ MORE: Why Houston became a magnet for refugee resettlement (Subscribers Only)

Once his wife gained status as a legal permanent resident, she asked permission for her husband to join her, a permit called a "Follow to Join" visa, which was approved Oct. 9, 2014 by the U.S.

On Jan. 11 of this year, her husband was issued a visa to come to the United States. He flew from Sweden on Friday and arrived about 8:30 p.m. local time to Kennedy Airport, where he was detained without access to a lawyer.

Another Iraqi refugee detained at the same airport, a former U.S. Army interpreter, was released Saturday, the New York Times reported.

Casey Tolan reported from New York. Andrew Kragie reported from Houston.
Mikiko Kasahara threw what everyone expected to be a celebration of the end of the semester at Texas Lutheran University.

The Japanese exchange student held a party at her apartment in Seguin 15 years ago on Dec. 14 2002. Before the next day, the 21-year-old Kasahara was dead and her apartment would be set ablaze.
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AUSTIN -- A federal judge on Friday issued a preliminary injunction blocking the state of Texas from implementing a controversial new rule targeting abortion by requiring the burial or cremation of fetal remains.

The 24-page ruling from U.S. District Judge Sam Sparks ordered the parties move forward with a case challenging the new state rule mandating the cremation or burial of the remains from an abortion, miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton immediately promised to appeal Sparks' ruling.

"Texas has chosen to dignify the life of the unborn by requiring the humane disposition of fetal remains," Paxton said. "Indeed, no longer content with merely ending the life of the unborn, the radical left now objects to even the humane treatment of fetal remains. Texas stands committed to honoring the dignity of the unborn and my office is proud to continue fighting for these new rules."

THE VP ON ABORTION: Mike Pence addresses annual antiabortion rally: 'Life is winning again in America'

Opponents to the rule celebrated the ruling, calling it a victory for women's rights.

"Anti-abortion attacks cannot and will not slow us down," said Amy Hagstrom Miller, founder and CEO of Whole Woman's Health, a plaintiff in the case. "It is so important that our resiliency continues to blaze a path that people in all communities are empowered to stand up and continue to fight back against political interference that attempt to regulate our lives."

Officials in the state Health and Human Services Commission introduced the regulation at the behest of Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican who later referenced the rule in a fundraising letter. The state quietly published the rule four days after the U.S. Supreme Court's landmark ruling last summer found Texas had gone too far in regulating abortion, striking down a pair of Texas regulations as unconstitutional.

Sparks in a hearing earlier this month said it was "obvious" the new rule had no health benefits, striking a chord with the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling that any regulation that burdens access to abortion must offer a sufficient medical benefit.

Embryonic and fetal tissue currently is disposed of the same way as medical waste which undergoes chemical disinfection, grinding, incineration or cremation which is then discarded in a sanitary sewer, sanitary landfill or by burial.

PRESIDENTIAL ACTION: Trump expands anti-abortion ban to all US global health

The state's attorneys argued in court earlier this month the rule provides for the dignity of the unborn. Cremation and burial would be affordable if done in bulk, the state contends, and abortion supporters have failed to identify irreparable harm the rule would cause.

The Center for Reproductive Rights, which brought the suit on behalf of several Texas abortion and health care clinics, argues the regulation imposes government officials' religious beliefs on women and would create an undue burden to accessing abortion.

"Today's ruling acknowledges that these regulations do nothing to protect public health while imposing new burdens and uncertainty on health care providers and the diverse communities they serve," said Nancy Northup, president and CEO of the center.

The plaintiffs in the suit include Brookside Women's Medical Center PA, its founder, Lendol L. Davis, Nova Health Systems, Inc., Alamo City Surgery Center and Whole Woman's Health.

ABORTION IN TEXAS: Study says fewer Texas women have abortions if they must travel a long way

Nearly 55,000 abortions were performed in Texas in 2014, the latest year figures were available.

A top Texas Department of State Health Services official said the agency envisioned the remains would be buried in one mass grave. The Texas Conference of Catholic Bishops has offered to make cemetery space available across the state for the remains.

Witnesses for both the state and abortion providers said the cost of burial and cremation services, if done in bulk, could amount to less than $2 per abortion, but would require facilities that handle aborted remains to store them in a freezer for weeks or months. Opponents of the rule say it would create additional emotional hardship for women undergoing an abortion or miscarriage.

ABORTION CRITIC: Tomi Lahren blasts women's marchers as 'entitled crybabies' who want 'free abortion'

The rule would apply to abortion clinics, as well as hospitals, forensic labs and pathology labs.

Abortion advocates and obstetricians testified in court that few if any women opt to have the fetal or embryonic remains buried.

Republican lawmakers vowed after their loss at the U.S. Supreme Court to search for additional ways to curb abortion in Texas. Several lawmakers since have drafted bills to change state law to require fetal burials or cremations. Other proposals include abolishing certain abortion procedures.

Rep. Byron Cook, R-Corsicana, has one such proposal to require the burial or cremation of fetal remains.

"Today's ruling is disappointing, however, the two-day court hearing provided us with essential input to ensure we pass good, constitutionally sound public policy," he said in a statement. "Committed to changing antiquated, abhorrent practices that do not offer dignity for unborn children -- as we do for all deceased humans, I am committed to pursuing this important endeavor during the current 85th Session of the Texas Legislature."
The summers final Live on the Waterfront concert was held Wednesday evening at Prince Arthurs Landing. The popular series in Thunder Bay has completed nine weekly shows that began on July 13. Wednesdays concert was unique as it was held one hour later in the evening to mesh with the 10 p.
"It was a Trump speech," said Beth Lesser, a Donald Trump supporter from Greenville, South Carolina, after listening to the president's inaugural address on the Mall.

"He hasn't changed at all -- and I don't want him to."

Lesser was one of the thousands who traveled a long way to come to the inauguration, and who loved what they heard. They didn't come to hear soaring rhetoric from Donald Trump. They didn't come to hear Trump try to sound like Marco Rubio or, God forbid, Barack Obama. They came to hear Trump sound like himself.

That's what they got. And to them, Inauguration Day was a day of hope.

"It brings some hope that we're going to have a new direction for the country, that we're going to create a real economic recovery," said Rick Fischer, who organized for Trump in Fairfax County, Virginia.

"I think this really restores our country to its place in the world as far as a leader is concerned," said Patrick O'Neal, of Atlanta.

"To me, it means the future of America," said Emily Ovecka, who volunteered for Trump in Philadelphia.

"It means the return of optimism," said Phil Bell, of Vienna, Virginia. "We've had years and years where I personally, and I think a lot of people, have felt simply like we didn't have an opportunity."

Talking to people on the Mall was like entering a universe entirely apart from that of the political commentariat. In the pundits' world, Trump delivered a pessimistic and foreboding address, one sure to further divide the nation. The adjective of choice was "dark."

"Unusually dark," wrote The Atlantic.

"Short, dark, and defiant," wrote USA Today.

"A dark vision," wrote the Los Angeles Times. There were many, many more.

Where journalists and pundits saw darkness, the people who came to the inauguration saw promise. For example -- and this should shock no one who has spent even a minute paying attention to politics -- they really liked it when Trump talked about jobs.

Indeed, the biggest applause line in the area where I was standing was when Trump said, "We will get our people off of welfare and back to work -- rebuilding our country with American hands and American labor."

Where the pundits heard a "dark, weird" speech (New York magazine) or a "dark, raw" speech (Vanity Fair), or a "dark, hard-line" speech (the New York Times), the audience heard the possibility that jobs -- not just low-paying service jobs, but better, higher-paying jobs -- would come back to their communities.

"It's the first time we've been excited and looking forward to a government," said Jay Leone, of Long Island, New York. "I think it marks the beginning of a new era, hopefully, for prosperity and jobs and security."

Trump's speech was remarkable in that he spent a significant amount of time bashing the political establishment arrayed behind him on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol. That was just fine with the people standing in front of him.

"For too long, a small group in our nation's capital has reaped the rewards of government while the people have borne the cost," Trump said. "Washington flourished -- but the people did not share in its wealth. Politicians prospered -- but the jobs left, and the factories closed."

"The establishment protected itself, but not the citizens of our country," Trump continued. "Their victories have not been your victories; their triumphs have not been your triumphs; and while they celebrated in our nation's capital, there was little to celebrate for struggling families all across our land."

The people who come to inaugurations are a new president's biggest supporters. Out where I was standing -- the podium was far, far away -- there were no bigwigs, no people who would have reservations Friday night at Washington's priciest restaurants. Some had traveled a long way, but a lot were from neighboring Eastern Seaboard states. And many said they believed in Donald Trump from nearly the first day.

Patrick O'Neal, a Trump supporter from the get-go, said he booked tickets on Amtrak and made hotel reservations for January 20, 2017 in Washington back in January 2016. He felt that strongly that Trump would win.

From the moment Trump finished speaking, many analysts compared the inaugural address to Trump's Republican convention acceptance speech last summer. And indeed, much of the punditocracy's reaction to that speech was the same as its reaction to this one: it was "dark."

Immediately after the convention speech, I asked 20 people in Cleveland's Quicken Loans Arena, in quick succession, what they thought of it. They all thought it was great. Of course, those were the type of Republican loyalists who actually attended a GOP convention. On the Mall Friday, there were the type of Republican loyalists who attend a Republican presidential nomination.

The bigger question last summer -- and now -- was how the vastly larger TV audience would see the speech. As it turned out, Trump actually got a bounce from the convention. (It was short-lived, given that Trump created enormous problems for himself the very next week with the Khizr Khan affair.) At the very least, it's fair to say that Trump's convention speech did not keep him from winning the general election.

Now, Trump has given another speech with worlds-apart reactions from the commentators and the people who came to see him. Dark? On the Mall, people saw Trump's speech as a ray of sunshine.

"It means we have a chance," said Liz Rawlings, of Annapolis, Maryland. "We have a chance to move our country forward."

Byron York is chief political correspondent for The Washington Examiner.
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(City of Akron)

AKRON, Ohio - ODOT will start removing the Innerbelt Feb. 6. Which means in another week, Akron drivers won't be able to get downtown from Howard Street, or get on the Innerbelt from Perkins Street.

The intersection of Main/Howard, and Perkins Street/Martin Luther King Boulevard will remain closed for six months.

The closure will allow ODOT to begin removing the Innerbelt, or Ohio Route 59. The Oak Park Renewal Project will reconnect the historic Oak Park neighborhood around Glendale cemetery to downtown Akron.

Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan has said the Oak Park area could be redeveloped to include housing, green space and a water feature.

"The Route 59 corridor, along with the intersection where Route 59 and North Main Street meet, have the highest crash rates in the area," Public Service Director John Moore said in a news release. "Once this project is complete, the corridor and that intersection will be much safer for both pedestrian and vehicular traffic."

Access to the Northside Arts District during the closure will be Perkins to Summit and Furnace to North Main.

The closure will cut off some access to the Northside Arts District. You can get there from Perkins to Summit Street and Furnace Street to North Main.

In conjunction with the closure, the city is is working on an EPA sewer separation project at the same intersection. The project will eliminate 39 combined sewer overflows or 4.1 million gallons of overflow in a typical year. The work is part of the Old Main Sewer Separation.

"We worked very closely with ODOT to ensure that the intersection was only closed one time and for the shortest duration possible," Horrigan said in a news release. "Both the city and ODOT are committed to improving our public infrastructure, while simultaneously enhancing public safety."

Signs about the closure will be posted this week. Information about the closure along with maps showing different detours are available at DriveAkron.com. For questions or concerns, call the Mayor's Action Center at 330- 375-2311 or 3-1-1.

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Davis-Besse nuclear power plant

FirstEnergy may ask Ohio lawmakers to create new regulations awarding "zero emission credits," or ZERCs, to its nuclear power plants, Davis-Besse east of Toledo and Perry east of Cleveland, in recognition that they do not contribute to air pollution. The ZERCs would increase customer bills. Details have not been divulged. FirstEnergy and Columbus-based American Electric Power want to become regulated utilities again, by either selling off their power plants, which are not regulated, or changing Ohio law.

(Plain Dealer file )

CLEVELAND -- The big power plants that FirstEnergy and Columbus-based American Electric Power have operated for decades just cannot make electricity as cheaply -- or as profitably -- as the new gas turbines, and at times, wind farms.

The companies have been looking for a way to escape the perils of market prices that come with deregulation or at the very least craft "surgical" amendments to state laws that since 2000 have been gradually moving the industry into market-based pricing.

In other words, they want to "re-structure" the state's utility laws. And you can bet that their opponents -- independent power producers which own coal plants or are building gas turbine plants --along with consumer groups are gearing up for a fight.

This past week Nicholas Akins, CEO of AEP, gave a glimpse of what the utilities have been talking about privately and efforts to resolve their differences before they formally involve lawmakers.

"We've got to make sure that an industry restructuring package is transparent enough and people will understand it well enough to accommodate some of these varied interests," he told financial analysts during the company's public teleconference discussing 2016 sales and profits.

"There are already drafts of legislation that are circulating around and we just need to make sure all the parties are comfortable with that,"he added in response to further questioning. "It is a work in progress, with the new legislature as well here in Ohio."

AEP, which is doing well financially, wants to build wind and solar farms, and maybe new gas plants, he told them. And FirstEnergy is interested in finding a way to subsidize its nuclear power plants Davis-Besse and Perry.

"If there is support [for] ZECs for nuclear (zero emission credits for nuclear plants), I am supportive of that being in legislation," he said, as long as AEP customers don't have to pay for them.

Lawmakers in New York and Illinois have approved ZECs but the concept has already been challenged in federal court as anti-competitive.

Todd Schneider, spokesman for FirstEnergy, said the company has been in discussions with AEP, but characterized the talks as preliminary and insisted that no legislation has been drafted. He said the company is looking at ZECs. And he added that the company is not interested in building new power plants.

"We are in the beginning stages of pursuing energy legislation that supports economic growth, environmental progress, electricity price stability and 24/7 reliability by giving state lawmakers greater control and flexibility to manage their energy supply needs through preservation of in-state nuclear plants," Schneider further explained in an email.

When pressed by analysts about whether the two companies are in agreement, Akins said, "I'd say generally we recognize we need to be arm in arm, but there are still outstanding issues that we need to resolve.

"But I really believe that the participants are motivated to move this process forward because they understand the importance of the restructuring effort here in Ohio.

"So I'd say the parties are motivated, but still there are issues that we have to resolve specifically related to if it's a surgical legislation.

He said House and Senate leadership are being kept informed.

Spokesmen for both chambers made it clear that legislation has not been drawn up.

"The Speaker is willing to have a conversation with the industry and the caucus to gain a better understanding and perspective of the issue," said Brad Miller, press secretary, for Speaker Clifford Rosenberger. "There has been no legislation introduced at this point in time, however, so further decisions and debate will wait until a proposal is brought forward."

John Fortney, press secretary for the Ohio Senate Majority Caucus, characterized the situation as preliminary. "We have not determined a particular policy direction or outcome at this point, but we are committed to a robust dialogue on the issue," he said in an email.

Whether called a bailout, a subsidy or re-structuring, the efforts to save the old power plants or make them more profitable is nothing new.

FirstEnergy and AEP have tried for two years to find a way for state regulators to subsidize the old power plants, subsidies that customers would have to finance in the form of higher monthly bills.

But federal authorities nixed the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio's efforts to help the utilities as anti-competitive. AEP dropped the idea. FirstEnergy looked for a way around the federal objections.

But the PUCO, dealing with an avalanche of protest from other power suppliers, consumer groups and environmentalists, backed away from fully funding what FirstEnergy said it needed to keep its plants operating.

Competitors called the subsidies a "bailout" and are still appealing the PUCO ruling.

FirstEnergy made it clear last November that it wants to become a regulated company once again and would either sell or close its power plants unless it could convince state lawmakers to return to regulation and (higher) regulated rates.

Both companies are selling some of their old plants.

FirstEnergy last week announced it would sell three older gas-fired plants in Pennsylvania and its share of a pumped hydro-power plant in Virginia. There is effort in Pennsylvania to re-regulate, restructure, or modify competitive markets.

AEP has closed a deal to sell its largest coal-fired power plant in Ohio and three gas-fired plants to private investors. The company is looking to sell or close other Ohio-based plants, which it owns jointly with independent power companies.
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Cleveland Heights police, in separate incidents, charged two men with public drunkenness on Coventry Road.

(file photo)

Disorderly conduct, Coventry Road: At 1 a.m. Jan. 20, a police officer was flagged down by someone who reported a highly intoxicated man nearby on the street.

The drunk man was incoherent and vomiting. Police called an ambulance and the man was taken to the hospital. It was learned that the man is from Australia and is a student at a local college.

Two ID cards were found on his person, one stating that he is 19 years old, and the other listing him as 22. The man was cited for disorderly conduct.

Disorderly conduct, Coventry Road: At 10:15 p.m. Jan. 20, an officer was flagged down by a resident who pointed out a drunk man in her yard who had fallen into bushes. The man's dog was with him and barking. The dog's chain was wrapped around the man, who was having trouble standing up.

It was learned that the man lived two doors away. The dog was turned over to the man's family and he was charged with disorderly conduct.

Counterfeit money, South Taylor Road: At 8 a.m. Jan. 19, police were called to the Shell gas station at 1895 S. Taylor Road where a clerk had just received from a customer a counterfeit $10 bill. The customer was on the premises when police arrived and couldn't tell officers where he acquired the phony bill.

Police confiscated the bill. The customer was not charged with a crime.

Buglary, Noble Road:

At 2:30 p.m. Jan. 21, a woman reported that her home had been burglarized. The woman told officers that she left her home at 9 p.m. the previous day and returned at 2 p.m. Jan. 21 to find her apartment door unlocked. She said she had locked the door when she left on Jan. 20.

The burglar went through the woman's closet and dresser drawers. Stolen were video game equipment and two televisions, one with a 42-inch screen, and the other, a 60-inch screen.

Police were able to gather fingerprints and are investigating the crime.

Theft, Mayfield Road: At 5:35 p.m. Jan. 22, police were called to Home Depot, 3460 Mayfield Road, due to a shoplifting incident.

An employee at the store watched as a man selected a cordless power tool kit worth $129, then walk out of the store without paying for the item. The employee confronted the man and escorted him back inside the store.

The employee told police that the suspect is known to have stolen from the store before, as well as from other area Home Depot stores. The store is pursuing charges of theft and trespassing against the suspect.

Disturbance, Lee Road: At 1:50 p.m. Jan. 23, an employee of a fitness center reported that she had been assaulted by the business's male owner. The woman said the man grabbed her wrist, then later pushed her in the lower back as he escorted her from the business.

The owner said the woman was seen talking to a trainer rather than manning the front desk area. He confronted her about it and then told her to leave the premises. Police spoke with two witnesses and determined the woman was not assaulted and that the man merely had his hand on her lower back as he escorted her out.

The matter was turned over to the city prosecutor for further evaluation.

If you would like to discuss the police blotter, please visit our crime and courts comments page.
EAST CLEVELAND, Ohio - Detectives are searching for two men who pushed a woman to the ground before stealing her car in East Cleveland.

The 74-year-old woman suffered minor injuries in the strongarm robbery that happened Monday outside a Roses discount store on Hayden Avenue near Shaw Avenue, according to a police report.

Detectives released surveillance photos of two men sought for questioning in connection with the incident.

The woman was outside her 2014 Ford Escape just after 4:30 p.m. when the men came up to her and forcefully grabbed her keys, according to the police report. The men pushed the woman to the ground before they got into the car and drove off.

Investigators are still searching for the car, police said Friday.

Anyone with information is being asked to call the East Cleveland Police Department at 216-681-2162.

If you'd like to comment on this story, visit Friday's crime and courts comments section.
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- With bagpipes playing and a gun salute, Cleveland police officer David Fahey was laid to rest Saturday afternoon.

Afternoon temperatures were below freezing, but hundreds of police officers from far and near gathered around Fahey's grave at Brooklyn Heights Cemetery a couple hours after a funeral service was held.

En route to the cemetery, the funeral procession passed by the Cleveland police department's First District headquarters, where Fahey was stationed, for a final salute.

Horses trotted alongside as Fahey's hearse made its way through the cemetery.

Bagpipes played as Fahey's casket was carried to the grave site.

Before everyone left, a final roll call went out for Fahey, followed by a moment of silence in honor of him. The final roll call stated Fahey was off-duty at 1:41 p.m. The radio message thanked Fahey for his service while on the force.

Fahey was killed Tuesday in a hit-and-run crash. He was setting road flares to divert traffic after a fatal crash on the westbound lanes of Interstate 90 in Rocky River, police said. A suspect was later arrested in Lorain.
Shoppers browse at the West Side Market on Friday. Vince Bertonaschi, who operates Vince's Meats, says customer traffic remains down, even with an end to construction in the parking lot. He's closing Saturday after three decades.

CLEVELAND, Ohio - After three decades of cutting meats in the city's venerable West Side Market, Vince Bertonaschi is calling it quits.

Vince's Meats will close Saturday, a decision Bertonaschi says he made in frustration -- with the cost of rent and the dwindling number of customers.

"My rent went up in June and it went up in January and I've been putting money in hoping it would be getting better," said Bertonaschi, 68. "It hasn't gotten better and I'm not putting any more money in."

Packed parking lots and construction caused headaches that drove customers away, Bertonaschi said. And he's not convinced the city's plan to charge for parking will help. Neither did adding Sunday hours.

He fears it will take years for that traffic to recover, if it ever does.

"They're promoting tourism and tourists don't buy fresh beef," he said.

Criticizing the city

Bertonaschi, former president of the merchant tenants' association at the market, is a sharp critic of the city and how it has managed the market, particularly the parking area.

The merchants' group used to maintain the lot. "We resurfaced it. We stripped it. We kept it plowed."

In the 1950s, the merchants bought a pair of houses and razed them to make room for more parking.

"We had a stake in that," he said.

Ultimately, the city took over maintenance and costs went up, he said.

Months of construction last year created more parking spaces but left market vendors angry over what they say was a loss of revenue during the work. Vendors circulated a petition demanding that the city reduce their rent to compensate for their losses.

But Dan Williams, a spokesman for Mayor Frank Jackson, said Friday that vendors had not raised concerns over the parking as they renewed their contracts for the year. Bertonaschi was the only vendor who did not renew and had indicated he was retiring, Williams said.

Questioning the solutions

Something needs to turn around, Bertonaschi said, or he fears for the long-term stability of the market.

The addition of Sunday hours last year wasn't the answer, he said. The extra hours didn't bring in an extra day of customers. Rather, he said, it just spread traffic out.

For vendors, that means putting in an extra day without a significant gain in sales.

And he's unconvinced charging for parking, as the city plans, will help.

City officials have maintained that charging customers would increase turnover in the lot, solving many of the parking problems in the popular and growing neighborhood.

If there's a free period, he said, that still allows shoppers to go to other stores on the street. And if there's no free period, the cost of shopping at the market goes up.

If customer numbers don't rebound, eventually more vendors will leave, Bertonaschi said.

Already there are several empty stalls in the main market building and adjacent produce building. On Friday, customer traffic inside the building was thin.

"Look at the aisles. Look at the aisles. I'm not being funny," he said. "It's Friday. We should be doing business, and we're not."
Donald Trump Nicholas Kamm | AFP | Getty Images

I don't think the sky is falling. Rotations and retirements are facts of life in the Foreign Servicethey're how we refresh the ranks and steadily produce a deep bench ready to step in and lead. Barbara Stephenson president of AFSA

Critics inside and outside of the State Department also pushed back hard against the story's most explosive suggestion  that Kennedy and his deputies were choosing to leave as part of a "mass exodus" of officials opposed to Trump. The State Department said that the four officials had submitted their resignations at the start of the new administration, as is standard practice with all political appointees throughout the executive branch of the government. Reporters who have covered the State Department for years said the Post report was overstating a normal feature of a transition. The American Foreign Service Association (AFSA), a sort of union for foreign service officers, also stepped into the fray, releasing an unusual public statement that said the entire thing was overblown. Hannah Allam tweet "I don't think the sky is falling," Barbara Stephenson, the president of AFSA, told me in a subsequent email. "Rotations and retirements are facts of life in the Foreign Servicethey're how we refresh the ranks and steadily produce a deep bench ready to step in and lead." By the end of the day, the Washington Post had changed its headline to "the State Department's entire senior administrative team just resigned," though it included no editor's note explaining the new language. Rogin, the piece's author, told me he stands by his reporting. The bottom line, though, is that the story as written  and as described by its initial headline  gives a misleading impression of what happened at the State Department and why. Some senior officials did leave, but it was a relatively small slice of the department's top brass. They did resign, but as part of the standard routine when new administrations take office. The Trump team did let the four officials know that their resignations were going to be accepted, but that's the normal prerogative of any incoming White House. It's also important to note that the most prominent of the departing officials, Kennedy, was a deeply controversial figure tied to both Benghazi and the lingering scandal over Hillary Clinton's email server. This was not necessarily a white knight shoved out the door by dastardly Trump administration officials. Taken together, it's reminder that Trump's chaotic approach to governance means we need to be more, and not less, careful about understanding what's actually a nefarious move by a vengeful and unpredictable new administration  and what's actually just business as usual for a new White House.

What we actually know about the State Department departures

The undersecretary of state for management, Kennedy's former post, is tasked with handling the nuts and bolts of the department  personnel, facilities, and the like. Most people, reasonably, don't know that. So when the Washington Post publishes a piece that says that State's "entire senior management team resigns," it makes it sound like that everyone who helps run the State Department's far-flung diplomatic apparatus had resigned  not just four officials tasked with high-level administrative work. The pushback began almost immediately. Mark Toner, the State Department's spokesperson, released an official statement saying the offers of resignations were "standard with every transition." AFSA's line was similar: "While there appears to be a large turnover in a short period of time, a change in administration always brings personnel changes." Hannah Allam tweet 2 Matt Lee of the Associated Press, a veteran State Department reporter, sent out a number of tweets challenging key parts of the story. "Entire leadership not leaving on same day," Lee wrote. "And those leaving have competent deputies to step in the interim." Matt Lee tweet According to Lee, large staff turnover is fairly normal at State. "Do you know how many under secretaries of state stayed after Bill Clinton to George W Bush transition? Answer is 1," he tweeted. Then, two reports  one from Foreign Policy's John Hudson, and another from CNN's Elise Labott  disputed Rogin's implication that they resigned in protest. "Characterizing these as protest resignations is totally inaccurate," one State Department official told Hudson. This is, in a way, unsurprising. Kennedy's administrative duties included both embassy security and IT  which meant that he was the top official, other than Secretary Hillary Clinton herself, who could be blamed for what Republicans see as two of the biggest scandals of the Obama years (Benghazi and Clinton's private email server). "Worth remembering that Republicans were never going to let Pat Kennedy (i.e. Mr. Benghazi & Mr. Emailgate) stay on," Hudson, who had profiled Kennedy last year, tweeted. Matt Hudson tweet Given Trump's emphasis on Clinton's emails during the campaign, then, it's easy to see why Kennedy (and some of his deputies) would have had their resignations accepted by the new White House once they offered to leave their posts. In messages we exchanged on Thursday evening, Rogin said he stood by his story. In the hours since the story first posted, Rogin said he had learned that six more of Kennedy's deputies had their resignations accepted. That would bring the total number of departing officials up to 12, or nearly all of the department's management team. That, in turn, would justify using the word "entire" in the article and in the initial headline.

To be fair, it is certainly possible that Kennedy and the other departing officials didn't want to serve in a Trump administration and secretly hoped that their resignations would be accepted. It's also possible that more officials will leave in coming days and make clear, publicly, that they left because of Trump.
"How we capitalize on it is our product is just engineered for it," Donald told " Mad Money " host Jim Cramer on Friday.

Millennials are also known for taking selfies, and Donald was ready to take advantage of that.

This year's Cruise Travel Report revealed that a growing number of millennials and Generation Y travelers are embracing cruises as a method of travel. Cruise travel has now become the most popular travel preference for younger generations.

In just three short years, Carnival CEO Arnold Donald has transformed the company's image from a struggling cruise line operator into a personalized experience, especially for millennials.

Donald has also embraced the power of technology, as Carnival unveiled its Ocean Medallion technology at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. It is the world's first interactive guest experience platform that introduces a highly personalized level of customer service.

"We think this potentially is the wave of the future," Donald said.

There is no question that the Ocean Medallion could be a multiplier for earnings, Donald said. A guest can walk into a facility and everyone knows their name already. They can leave a drink at one bar, and go to the next, and the bartender will know what drink to serve them based on the record.

Moving forward, Donald said his goal is to deliver double-digit return on investor capital within the next two years and is prepared for any issues that could plague the cruise industry. In 2016 alone, the cruise industry battled concerns over Zika, Brexit, fuel, currency and a series of global political events.

Donald wasn't rattled, though. Carnival assumes these events will occur and have factored it in.

"We have more than doubled our return of investor capital in the last three years; we have more than doubled our earnings. We are on a path to do that regardless of those external things that can impact you in a given geography," Donald said.
That's why when Cramer sees Trump's agenda of deregulation, lower corporate taxes and repatriation of foreign assets, he likes it. He thinks it could lead to higher stock prices.

"My agenda? It has always been the same: higher stock prices. That is my true north; because most of you home gamers own stocks and I want you to make money. It's that simple," the " Mad Money " host said.

The truth is that he is neither. Cramer cares about the stock market, not politics.

In a raging debate from his fans on Twitter, many people have asked Jim Cramer if he is for or against President Donald Trump .

The recent rally in the stock market is directly related to improved fundamentals thanks to a stronger global economy and better employment. However, Cramer was willing to admit the election played a role in the run. The surprising Republican win of a pro-business president and the end of gridlock in Washington did help, Cramer said.

But the proposed U.S-Mexico border wall worries Cramer. The real issue with Mexico isn't the wall, he said, the issue is jobs. The Mexican peso is so cheap that it is drawing in corporations that would have otherwise build factories in the U.S.

When NAFTA was passed, the exchange rate was four pesos to every dollar. Now a dollar buys 21 pesos. That gives U.S. corporations a major advantage. That is what Cramer wants addressed if Trump plans to stop companies from shipping jobs south of the border.

"In just one week, the president has upended Washington," Cramer said.

The tiff with Mexico could be a problem for the market. It's not about who pays for the wall. It is about whether Republicans in Congress can say, "Count me out  Mexico is my friend, has been for years."

If that happens, Cramer warned that Trump's whole economic agenda could be derailed and the market will go down.

Ultimately, the issue of building a wall has raised political risk, Cramer said. It has introduced real uncertainty in to stocks, and Trump's agenda has become shaky. It must go away, but Cramer isn't sure how it will, given that Trump campaigned on it and he isn't likely to give up his campaign promises.

"It makes more concerned and it should concern you, too, if it isn't resolved in a civil and lasting fashion," Cramer said.
Samsung Electronics Co. Galaxy Note 7 SeongJoon Cho | Bloomberg | Getty Images

Jack Estes, an IT consultant in Indianapolis, doesn't think people who know him are too surprised he kept his recalled Samsung Galaxy Note 7. "A number of them know me as a little bit of a maverick." Estes said. "I regularly wear pants printed with dogs and whales ... I'm not the same type of buttoned-down businessman that you see in stock pictures. Some people have said I'm tilting at windmills, but no complaints from clients. I have a somewhat healthy disrespect of authority."

In his attachment to his Samsung phone  now more famous for its exploding battery than any of its features  Estes is by far in the minority: Samsung said earlier this month that about 96 percent of phones have been returned, after they were recalled due to the danger they might catch fire. The devices have essentially vanished from public life. They were banned from American planes. They've had their battery life throttled by software updates from Samsung and have been aggressively pursued by carriers like Verizon. The trade-in incentives at Sprint have ended. But some consumers, "the 4 percenters," have found ways to keep their phones working. Of the 20-odd consumers that reached out to CNBC, most said they plan to keep it at least until the Note 8 is released, if not longer.

Jack Estes Galaxy Note 7 owner Source: Jack Estes

Some back-of-the-napkin math indicates this group numbers about 76,000 people in the U.S.  about as many folks as live in Camden, New Jersey, or Santa Fe, New Mexico. (About 1.9 million total devices were covered by the U.S. recall, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.)

For Estes, who said he has owned every Note device since the Note 2, the stylus has enabled him to run his small business more efficiently  thanks to its large screen and "sporty" processor, he no longer has to lug around a laptop. He said he'd happily let his daughter use the phone too, given that she is careful.

Most users said there's no other phone on the market like the Note 7, and resent having to essentially "downgrade" to phones like the Galaxy S7 edge that many already owned. Some consider the recalled phone a collector's item. And many also point out that it's statistically unlikely that a phone would catch fire now, if it hasn't already. Out of the less than 2 million handsets out there, Samsung received 96 reports of batteries overheating, 13 reports of burns and 47 reports of property damage this fall, the CPSC said. (Samsung and U.S. regulators have urged consumers that it is not safe to keep the recalled phones.)



We live in a free country, we don't have to be forced beyond our will. Jay Ringgold Note 7 Rebels organizer

"We've been insulted in the media: 'They're foolish, they're dumb,'" said Zack Cernok, a 26-year-old resident of Quakertown, Pennsylvania, who installs swimming pools. "Very few people have reached out and heard our side of the story." Some users of the phone, Cernok said, just think what Samsung is doing is wrong, and that they should be given a free version of the next Note device Samsung releases. Samsung declined to comment specifically on this demand as of the time of publishing. "The main reason is not just because it's a great phone. Yes, it is. But we feel that Samsung put us in an unfair predicament," said Cernok. "I have never been a tech enthusiast, until after this phone came out and the recall started happening. That is what turned me on to tech."

In fairness, Samsung has put considerable effort into easing the pain of the recall, offering kiosks at airports, special return packaging, trade-in phones with no fees and sizable bill incentives of up to $100 to help customers switch over.

This Oct. 9, 2016 photo shows a damaged Samsung Galaxy Note 7 on a table in Richmond, Va., after it caught fire earlier in the day. Shawn L. Minter | AP

The remaining Note 7 owners have established insular and extremely active online communities where they give each other advice on switching carriers, avoiding updates that "brick" their phones, and providing IT and moral support.

One group, the Note 7 Rebels, has about 4,000 members, and accepts donations to do upkeep of a bespoke $1,100 software solution. The Note 7 Alliance has about 1,300 members on Facebook. Cernok helps moderate the "Rebels" group, which is run by Jay Ringgold (who also goes under the online alias Jay Boss), a technology professional in San Diego who said he is something of a social media guru. Ringgold, who spends a minimum of 25 hours a week on the "Rebels" community, has started petitions and confronted Samsung at technology trade show CES. He said it was not receptive to his complaints.

There's a certain ethos that goes with the champions of each brand. I'm into sharing the knowledge. Jack Estes Note 7 owner

Ringgold said he doesn't think the phones are a danger to others at this point. Cernok said while he doesn't condone it, he knows people who have flown with the phone. (The Federal Aviation Administration has called the phones an "imminent safety hazard," and anyone who flies with the phone risks criminal prosecution.) "They tell everyone its voluntary. That's like a store saying, 'You can have this have this candy bar if you want,' but then they say, 'We're still going to arrest you if you walk out with it,'" Ringgold said. "We live in a free country, we don't have to be forced beyond our will." Shanda Edstrom, a payroll administrator in Portland, Oregon, has come to dread the weekly "return your phone" messages from her carrier  when her data unexpectedly ran out once, she "almost had a heart attack," thinking that Samsung had finally figured out how to get around the software that's protecting her Note 7. Edstrom said she had to wait hours with rude staff the first time she did the recall, and didn't want to have to go through it again. But she loves the ability to easily annotate screenshots on the Note 7, and said she has always been the type of do-it-yourself person that finds her own solutions to problems. She also believes in open source technology. "Yes, I'd consider myself a rebellious person," Edstrom said. Estes  the "maverick" IT consultant with the colorful outfits  agreed.

"I'm a Linux guy," he said. "There's a certain ethos that goes with the champions of each brand. I'm into sharing the knowledge."

John Jackson of Amherst, Mass., is one of a few thousand consumers who says they still have the recalled Samsung Galaxy Note 7 phone. Source: John Jackson
Country

Afghanistan Albania, People's Socialist Republic of Algeria, People's Democratic Republic of American Samoa Andorra, Principality of Angola, Republic of Anguilla Antarctica (the territory South of 60 deg S) Antigua and Barbuda Argentina, Argentine Republic Armenia Aruba Australia, Commonwealth of Austria, Republic of Azerbaijan, Republic of Bahamas, Commonwealth of the Bahrain, Kingdom of Bangladesh, People's Republic of Barbados Belarus Belgium, Kingdom of Belize Benin, People's Republic of Bermuda Bhutan, Kingdom of Bolivia, Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana, Republic of Bouvet Island (Bouvetoya) Brazil, Federative Republic of British Indian Ocean Territory (Chagos Archipelago) British Virgin Islands Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria, People's Republic of Burkina Faso Burundi, Republic of Cambodia, Kingdom of Cameroon, United Republic of Canada Cape Verde, Republic of Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad, Republic of Chile, Republic of China, People's Republic of Christmas Island Cocos (Keeling) Islands Colombia, Republic of Comoros, Union of the Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, People's Republic of Cook Islands Costa Rica, Republic of Cote D'Ivoire, Ivory Coast, Republic of the Cuba, Republic of Cyprus, Republic of Czech Republic Denmark, Kingdom of Djibouti, Republic of Dominica, Commonwealth of Dominican Republic Ecuador, Republic of Egypt, Arab Republic of El Salvador, Republic of Equatorial Guinea, Republic of Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Faeroe Islands Falkland Islands (Malvinas) Fiji, Republic of the Fiji Islands Finland, Republic of France, French Republic French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon, Gabonese Republic Gambia, Republic of the Georgia Germany Ghana, Republic of Gibraltar Greece, Hellenic Republic Greenland Grenada Guadaloupe Guam Guatemala, Republic of Guinea, Revolutionary People's Rep'c of Guinea-Bissau, Republic of Guyana, Republic of Haiti, Republic of Heard and McDonald Islands Holy See (Vatican City State) Honduras, Republic of Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of China Hrvatska (Croatia) Hungary, Hungarian People's Republic Iceland, Republic of India, Republic of Indonesia, Republic of Iran, Islamic Republic of Iraq, Republic of Ireland Israel, State of Italy, Italian Republic Jamaica Japan Jordan, Hashemite Kingdom of Kazakhstan, Republic of Kenya, Republic of Kiribati, Republic of Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Kuwait, State of Kyrgyz Republic Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon, Lebanese Republic Lesotho, Kingdom of Liberia, Republic of Libyan Arab Jamahiriya Liechtenstein, Principality of Lithuania Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Macao, Special Administrative Region of China Macedonia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Madagascar, Republic of Malawi, Republic of Malaysia Maldives, Republic of Mali, Republic of Malta, Republic of Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania, Islamic Republic of Mauritius Mayotte Mexico, United Mexican States Micronesia, Federated States of Moldova, Republic of Monaco, Principality of Mongolia, Mongolian People's Republic Montserrat Morocco, Kingdom of Mozambique, People's Republic of Myanmar Namibia Nauru, Republic of Nepal, Kingdom of Netherlands Antilles Netherlands, Kingdom of the New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua, Republic of Niger, Republic of the Nigeria, Federal Republic of Niue, Republic of Norfolk Island Northern Mariana Islands Norway, Kingdom of Oman, Sultanate of Pakistan, Islamic Republic of Palau Palestinian Territory, Occupied Panama, Republic of Papua New Guinea Paraguay, Republic of Peru, Republic of Philippines, Republic of the Pitcairn Island Poland, Polish People's Republic Portugal, Portuguese Republic Puerto Rico Qatar, State of Reunion Romania, Socialist Republic of Russian Federation Rwanda, Rwandese Republic Samoa, Independent State of San Marino, Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, Democratic Republic of Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of Senegal, Republic of Serbia and Montenegro Seychelles, Republic of Sierra Leone, Republic of Singapore, Republic of Slovakia (Slovak Republic) Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia, Somali Republic South Africa, Republic of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands Spain, Spanish State Sri Lanka, Democratic Socialist Republic of St. Helena St. Kitts and Nevis St. Lucia St. Pierre and Miquelon St. Vincent and the Grenadines Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Suriname, Republic of Svalbard & Jan Mayen Islands Swaziland, Kingdom of Sweden, Kingdom of Switzerland, Swiss Confederation Syrian Arab Republic Taiwan, Province of China Tajikistan Tanzania, United Republic of Thailand, Kingdom of Timor-Leste, Democratic Republic of Togo, Togolese Republic Tokelau (Tokelau Islands) Tonga, Kingdom of Trinidad and Tobago, Republic of Tunisia, Republic of Turkey, Republic of Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu US Virgin Islands Uganda, Republic of Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom of Great Britain & N. Ireland United States Minor Outlying Islands United States of America Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe
According to sources, Snap Inc. plans to publicly file for its much anticipated initial public offering late next week. That means the company will likely go public sometime in March, after a typical road show schedule that lasts nine weeks.

Technically, Snap already did a private filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission for its IPO late last year, but this will be the first time the public will get a glimpse into its financials and also its core business.

As usual, the timing of the IPO might still change, as is typical in public offerings.

More from Recode:

One of China's largest online retailers is adding dozens of drone delivery routes to rural villages in 2017

The Google Car was supposed to disrupt the car industry. Now Waymo is taking on suppliers.

When will self-driving cars be everywhere?



The offering is being led by Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs, with a whole string of other banks attached as usual. It will be the first big IPO in quite a while for a leading tech company and is more interesting because it will not be a victory for Silicon Valley. Instead, co-founder and CEO Evan Spiegel created and grew the Snap to huge levels from Southern California, where the company is headquartered.

Sources said the five-year-old company's valuation could reach $25 billion, but interest in the IPO could garner more than that if demand is high.

Snap's main product, Snapchat, has become a sensation with a young demographic with its initial ephemeral messaging product. But its innovative series of new offerings has solidified it as the most fast forward social media company around.

But twitchy teens  like my 14-year old for whom Snapchat is a digital must  are not its only audience, going forward. Sources said that Spiegel told a gathering at the Morgan Stanley conference last year that half of its new users were over the age of 25.

Snap's success has had reverberations across the tech landscape, so much so that Facebook has essentially been copying its products, including Snapchat Stories, to keep up. Facebook, as most know, once tried to buy the company, for $3 billion dollars several year ago, an offer Spiegel declined.

A Snap spokesperson had no comment.
Protesters gather outside Terminal 4 at JFK airport in opposition to U.S. president Donald Trump's proposed ban on immigration in Queens, New York City, U.S., January 28, 2017.

A federal judge granted an emergency stay Saturday to bar deportation of people with valid visas who landed in the U.S., following chaos and detentions after President Donald Trump's executive order related to immigration from seven Muslim-majority countries.



The American Civil Liberties Union estimates it will affect between 100 and 200 people detained at or in transit to U.S. airports, though they do not have to be released from detention. It did not, however, appear to cover Trump's full order, suspending visas from certain nations for 90 days.

The ACLU and other activist groups filed a class action lawsuit on Saturday, seeking to challenge the president's order, as acrimony widened over the policy and the number of detainees waylaid in transit appeared to swell. Demonstrations sprang up at airports around the country in response to the detentions.

"This ruling preserves the status quo and ensures that people who have been granted permission to be in this country are not illegally removed off U.S. soil," Lee Gelernt, deputy director of the ACLU's Immigrants' Rights Project, said in a statement.



A senior Homeland Security official said Saturday that the agency is monitoring the litigation and has not seen the stay, but will implement any appropriate orders accordingly. The officer said 109 travelers were denied entry into the U.S., while another 173 were stopped from boarding flights in the first 23 hours of the order.

Late Friday, the Trump administration announced that it would temporarily bar entry to refugees from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen due to terrorism concerns. The order seeks "extreme vetting" procedures for those it did allow to enter the U.S. In signing the order, Trump said he pledged to "keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America."

In a habeus corpus petition filed Saturday in a New York federal court on behalf of two Iraqis detained at John F. Kennedy International Airport, the ACLU called Trump's move "unlawful." They were later released.

The case's two lead plaintiffs were held by authorities and threatened with deportation, the ACLU argued, even though both are authorized to enter the U.S. As a number of immigrants in transit were waylaid by the sudden shift in policy, spontaneous demonstrations erupted at JFK Airport on Saturday afternoon.

JFK tweet1

The ACLU's briefing called the ban a part of a "widespread pattern applied to many refugees and arriving aliens" in the wake of Trump's executive order. Critics have blasted it as a de facto ban on many Muslims entering the United States, though Trump denied that characterization Saturday.

"It's not a Muslim ban, but we were totally prepared. It's working out very nicely. You see it at the airports, you see it all over," Trump said.


Despite having the largest population of any country in the world, China isn't having enough babies. That's the unspoken conclusion of a government plan, published Wednesday, which revealed that the relaxation of China's one-child-only policy has so far failed to boost the country's birth rate enough to avoid significant demographic challenges in the coming decades. The easing of the one-child policy, which was amended in early 2016 to allow all Chinese families to have two children, helped push the number of births in the country to 17.86 million in 2016, an increase of 7.9 percent over 2015, according to state media reports citing China's National Health and Family Planning Commission. The figure was the highest since 2000. Other data released by China's National Bureau of Statistics recorded a slightly higher figure of 18.46 million births in 2016. Despite the increase, China's fertility rate remains below replacement level  at which a population naturally replenishes itself from one generation to the next  where it has languished for years, according to the National Population Development Plan 2016 - 2030, issued by China's State Council, the country's cabinet.



STR | AFP | Getty Images

Despite state media trumpeting the increase as evidence of the two-child policy's success, the increase in births is lower than the figure of 20 million for which authorities had hoped  and even that figure would not have allowed the country to sidestep the demographic train rolling toward it. The report released Wednesday warns that China faces a turning point over the next 15 years, particularly between 2021 and 2030. The aging of the population will accelerate, increasing pressure on social security and public services. At the same time, the working-age population will shrink, damaging economic growth and reducing the tax income required to support the elderly.

The report predicted that a quarter of China's population will be over 60 in 2030, compared with about 16 percent in 2015. More from NBC News:

China's hunger for world's food grows, and US farmers are glad

China's Xi lectures Trump on globalization and climate change

Beijing says One China policy 'non-negotiable' after Trump comments Conversely, the working-age population  those aged between 15-59  will be 80 million fewer in 2030 than in 2015, according to a statement Wednesday from China's National Development and Reform Commission, cited by the Wall Street Journal.

watch now
President Donald Trump's decision to temporarily bar refugees from certain countries drew an emotional response from Google CEO Sundar Pichai, who said the move impacted nearly 200 of the company's employees and urged them to return to the U.S. in a company-wide email.

In a letter to employees seen by CNBC, Pichai said he was "upset about the impact of this order and any proposals that could impose restrictions on Googlers and their families." The existence of the memo was first reported by The Wall Street Journal.

"We're concerned about the impact of this order and any proposals that could impose restrictions on Googlers and their families, or that could create barriers to bringing great talent to the US," a Google spokesperson told CNBC.

"We'll continue to make our views on these issues known to leaders in Washington and elsewhere," the Google rep added.



Separately, Microsoft also voiced concerns about the policy, which was announced late Friday and immediately ricocheted across the world. Both Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and Google's Pichai are Indian-Americans.

The software giant told CNBC in a statement that "we share the concerns about the impact of the executive order on our employees from the listed countries, all of whom have been in the United States lawfully, and we're actively working with them to provide legal advice and assistance."

Moreover, Pichai said that at least 187 of Google's employees were from the countries included in the sweeping seven country ban, such as Syria, Iraq, Iran and Libya.



"Our first order of business is to help Googlers who are affected," Pichai said. "If you're abroad and need help, please reach out to our global security team." Pichai added that it was "painful to see the personal cost of this executive order on our colleagues."

The move sparked an outpouring of anger and condemnation worldwide.

A federal judge granted an emergency stay Saturday to temporarily allow people with valid visas who landed in the U.S. to stay in the country. The American Civil Liberties Union estimates it will affect between 100 and 200 people detained at or in transit to U.S. airports. It will not, however, stay the president's entire order.



--CNBC's Josh Lipton and Harriet Taylor contributed to this article.
MU Ukrainian students have trouble reaching family in homeland

Vlad Sazhen and Alina Rohulia talk about the power outages in Ukraine caused by Russian strikes, leading to difficulty in keeping touch.
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Campaign Finance Disclosure passed the Senate Rules committee and is now headed to the Senate Judiciary committee.

Please contact your legislator and ask them to support SB 96 to ensure that everyone spending large amounts of money in our elections discloses where that money comes from and where it is going! You can locate your legislator here.

This not only a priority bill for Common Cause New Mexico, but also a bill that will be scored for our first NM GPA. Check out our new website to see all bills being scored, our methodology and read about our Four Pillars of Democracy.

The proposed disclosure legislation has passed the Senate FOUR times (the last three unanimously), as well as all House committees in prior years. This bill will overhaul the current law to bring it in line with both recent constitutional rulings and modern campaign practices by:

Requiring public disclosure of information about the campaign spending of PACs and other non-candidate campaign participants without crossing constitutional boundaries established by the courts

Requiring independent groups to disclose contributions and expenditures

Why this legislation is important to New Mexicans:

91% of New Mexico voters support requiring that all large political contributions be made public

74% of New Mexico voters support contribution limits for candidates

So Whats Up for Next Week?

First, another Priority Bill is on the agenda for Monday morning! A bill to improve New Mexicos existing system of public campaign financing. New Mexico currently has three systems for public financing of campaigns: the Public Regulation Commission, Court of Appeals and the NM Supreme Court.

On June 27, 2011, the U.S. Supreme Court reaffirmed the constitutionality of public campaign financing in the Arizona Free Enterprise v. Bennett decision. The ruling, however, struck down one mechanism used in some public financing programs, including New Mexicos Voter Action Act.

While the current bill does not address what was struck down as far as matching funds, it does prohibit candidates who run unopposed from receiving more than 10% of the public funding available to them, and also prohibits the use of campaign funds for living expenses or compensation to the candidate or candidates family.

The bill will be heard in the Senate Rules committee at 9 AM. Let your legislators know to support Senator Peter Wirths SB 97!

Then we are hoping that the THREE Common Cause New Mexico priority bills (Constitutional Amendment to Create an Ethics Commission, Prohibiting Legislators from Lobbying for two Years after Leaving Office, and the Campaign finance disclosure bill described above) that passed their first committee this week will be scheduled for their next committee soon  check in daily to our blog for when they will be scheduled.

We are Tracking More than our Priority Bills!

We have other bills we follow besides the 1) Bills being scored on the NM GPA and 2) the Common Cause New Mexico Priority legislation for the year  we also track about another 60-75 throughout the session that we either support or oppose. We expect to see quite a few of them have their first hearing next week, including the below.

Click on the link for any committee and you will find the agenda, committee members, links for bills, analysis of bills and what committees they have been assigned to  as well as sponsors and co-sponsors.

Tuesday in House Local Government, Elections, Land Grants and Cultural Affairs

HB 99  16 year olds voting in school elections sponsored by Rep. Javier Martinez

Thursday in House Local Government, Elections, Land Grants and Cultural Affairs

HB 120 Disqualification of Presidential Electors

HB 119 Prohibition Period for Candidate Contributions

Tuesday in House State Government, Indian and Veterans Affairs

HB 121 Web-Based Outlay Publication

And there will be lots more next week, so check back after the weekend for the next Democracy Wire update from the Common Cause New Mexico team!

Follow us on Twitter @commoncausenm & like us on Facebook for mid-day updates and remember to CALL YOUR LEGISLATORS!
News used to be reliable.

While "fake news" has always existed, we enjoyed a halcyon period in the second half of the 20th Century where the news media in industrial democracies produced a reliable, shared reality. People disagreed, but their opinions were mostly based on credible facts produced by solid journalism standards, fact-checking and editorial integrity.

Then the web arrived, followed by the social web. Now, instead of three reputable news sources, you hear facts and ideas from thousands of sources of varying reliability. These appear before your eyeballs by invisible means -- by the compatibility of the content with the secret algorithms used to determine what spreads widely -- and what doesn't.

A broad range of people with political, commercial or anti-social interests have been evolving their techniques for gaming the social algorithms for ever-accelerating the spread of fake news. Dana Boyd calls it "hacking the attention economy."

Why semi-fake news is the worst kind

Here's the problem: Patently false news is ridiculous and, as such, harmless. The worst kind of fake news is a Russian export called "disinformatzya."

Guardian journalist and Russia specialist Luke Harding says the Kremlin's "disinformatzya" tactics were honed by the KGB during the Cold War. They've been around for decades, but only in Russia.

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What's new is that in recent years Russia has been applying "disinformatzya" to English-language audiences. We're not used to "disinformatzya," and so it's extra effective.

The goal of "disinformatzya" isn't to get people to believe lies, but to "confuse and bamboozle everybody else by floating conspiracy theories, so there are 10 different explanations for an event," Harding said in an interview with NPR's Terry Gross. The Russian government does this through the publication of semi fake news and also "by hiring armies of trolls," which spread misinformation and disrupt online conversations with abusive, hateful posts, thus preventing rational conversation.

Inside Russia, "disinformatzya" seeks to erode trust in all institutions so that a "strong man" like Putin can present himself as the only solution.

Outside Russia, "disinformatzya" helps Russia destabilize and weaken rivals, while simultaneously enabling the Russian leader to convince the Russian public that the West is just as corrupt and dysfunctional as Russia is.

The worst part is that this manipulative tactic of using "disinformatzya" to deliberately create confusion and havoc works. And because of that, it's being instinctively picked up by American and European organizations, trolls and politicians.

That's what's new. That's why "fake news" is such a big problem now.

Muddying the waters is that the "fake news" label is being thrown around irresponsibly.

"The National Catholic Register" slammed an article in The Atlantic about the political effect of ultrasound technology as "fake news."

President Trump started calling CNN "fake news" after that network reported information the president disagreed with.

A post this week in Canada's Financial Post went full circle on "fake news." The author of the piece slams the Canadian government for an intended crackdown on "fake news," saying that the government itself spreads "fake news." The article is accompanied by a warning that the piece may itself be "fake news."

There's no question that "fake news" is a "thing" now. Australia's Macquarie Dictionary named "fake news" their "Word of the Year."

CNN created a "fake news" beat position -- not to create fake news, but to research, report and expose it.

Governments in Germany, Canada, the Czech Republic and elsewhere are setting up commissions, review boards and committees to tackle the fake news problem. These efforts are nice, but won't have the desired effect, because they don't affect the spread of fake news on social sites.

Fake news is technology's fault. Can technology fix it?

What Silicon Valley can do

The fake news problem has gotten so bad lately that Silicon Valley companies and others are scrambling for technology solutions to a technology-created problem. Google this week announced that it had banned some 200 publishers from its AdSense network. Google didn't publish a list of banned sites, which resulted from a change in the company's policy on misleading content. Google has now added a category for sites that impersonate news sites.

While the word "ban" sounds strong, the fact is that Google is merely withholding its advertising services from these sites, which are free to pursue other advertising opportunities.

Facebook reportedly updated its Trending service to reduce the viral sharing of fake news. It took an interesting approach, too. Facebook's algorithms will now eject news that's trending where that news comes from a single source. Unless a report gets pickups (original stories based on the reporting of another publication) in other publications, it won't be allowed in the Trending section.

Unfortunately, this appears to be easy to game. Fake-news sites need only to publish multiple sites, and do pickups on their own content -- something many of the fake news sites already do. Facebook also promised to de-personalized Trending topics that show the same list to all users.

The French newspaper Le Monde built a database called "Decodex" containing 600 fake-news websites that goes online in February. The database was compiled by the publication's fact checkers. Most of the sites are fake, but foreign sites like America's "Breitbart" and the "Daily News Bin" are also included. Users can paste in URLs to see if an online news piece is fake or, better yet, use a Chrome or Firefox extension that alerts readers with a color-coded system. Le Monde plans to also launch a Facebook Messenger bot for fact-checking.

This approach might be effective. Researchers at the University of Cambridge found that "inoculation" is the best way to prevent people from believing fake news. (Studies show that when fake news is corrected, they continue to remember and believe the fake news.) But when study participants were given true news, then told that specific groups were circulating fake news, followed by exposure to the fake news, they continued to believe the true news. In other words, identifying fake news only works if the fake news is identified before exposure.

A 19-year-old Stanford University student, Karan Singhal, created a "fake news detector" using artificial intelligence. It analyzes 55 different metrics, including writing style, layout and domain name. You can try it for free.

Climate scientists and technologists are also collaborating on fighting fake news with a new site called climatefeedback.org. The site gets climate scientists to do reviews on stories about the climate. The scientist/reviewers add notes and links to the articles, and add a credibility score.

The beauty of this approach is that each article is judged independently (instead of branding an entire publication as "bad"). For example, the site slams the Guardian for this article but praises it for this one. Better still, the site essentially teaches media criticism and skepticism from a scientific point of view.

One of the most aggressive actions comes from Snap. The company updated its content guidelines for Snapchat publishers to battle fake news, according to a report in The New York Times this week.

In advance of an expected IPO, Snap wants to cut down on clickbait. Snapchat's "discovery" section now bans profanity, sexual or violent content and misleading or fraudulent headlines.

But Snap also targets fake news. The company says all content must be fact-checked and accurate and that publishers can't impersonate entities or people. It's not clear how Snap will police the guidelines. But to the extent that they are policed, they're among the most stringent of all the social sites.

Snap is doing the right thing by saying: We're a publisher. We're responsible for content. And that's the only responsible policy.

What not to do

The attitudes of Twitter and Facebook, meanwhile, are irrational and toxic. They reserve the right to ban, censor or delete any content they want -- Facebook based on its "Community Standards" and Twitter based on "The Twitter Rules." Both Twitter and Facebook tend to take action only when shamed in the court of public opinion. But when it comes to fake news, they throw their hands up and say they're not publishers and that they support free speech -- or they make minor tweaks to filtering to placate critics.

Recently, a series of analyses found that fake news didn't determine the outcome of the recent election, and therefore we shouldn't worry about fake news. But who wants to live in a backwards world where people believe journalism is false while propaganda, conspiracy theories and fake news are truth; where scientific research is considered political, but claims by politicians about science are not?

It's time for Google, Facebook and Twitter to get serious. Fake news can and must be identified, banned, deprioritized, labeled or otherwise disempowered.

The only thing that can save us from the scourge of fake news and "disinformatzya" is Silicon Valley.
In 1993, President Bill Clinton was in the first year of his presidency, Windows NT 3.1 and Jurassic Park were both released, the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) was signed, and Phil Hogan, an IT application architect, booted up a brand-new Stratus Technologies fault tolerant server.

A lot has changed in 24 years, but one thing hasn't: The Stratus server is still in operation and Hogan -- who works at steel products maker Great Lakes Works EGL in Dearborn Mich. -- continues to keep it that way.

This is a fault tolerant server, which means that hardware components are redundant. Over the years, disk drives, power supplies and some other components have been replaced but Hogan estimates that close to 80% of the system is original.

"It never shut down on its own because of a fault it couldn't handle," said Hogan. "I can't even think of an instance where we had an unplanned shutdown," he said.

This is a famous server. In 2010 Stratus held a contest to identify one of its servers that had been running the longest. Hogan's then 17-year-old server was the winner. (At the time of the 2010 contest, the firm was known as Double Eagle Steel Coating Co.)

This system runs an older version Stratus proprietary VOS operating system, which Hogan believes hasn't been updated since the early 2000s. "It's been extremely stable,' he said.

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His company doesn't have a maintenance contract with Stratus, and Hogan has been able to buy parts from a third-party vendor. Still, Stratus says it probably still has parts for it in stock.

This server had been eyed for an upgrade over the years but ownership or business cycle changes interrupted or derailed plans. It also helped that the users weren't complaining.

Even though the system has a character-driven interface, similar to an old green screen system, the users "like the reliability of it, and the screens are actually pretty simple," said Hogan.

Jason Andersen, the vice president of business line management at Stratus, said the systems they produce "are totally redundant in every way shape or form."

Since the 2010 server longevity contest, Andersen said Stratus has learned of other 20-year-old-plus systems but it's possible that the server at Great Lakes Works may still be the oldest.

Stratus fault tolerant systems are used in payment processing, telecommunications, and credit card processing, as well as in manufacturing, energy and natural resources among other industry verticals, said Andersen. Stratus builds systems that support Windows, Linux, VMware and VOS.

But the end is nearing for Hogan's server. Great Lakes Works is now part of United States Steel Corp., in a deal completed in 2015. There is now a plan to upgrade the system in April. At that point the Stratus will be retired.

When the hardware is finally turned off, it might deliver a moment for Hogan. Maybe it will be akin to the feeling of getting rid of an old and faithful car. But the only person who will really know what the server has accomplished in its long life is the person who kept it running.
Toshiba on Friday officially announced it will sell a portion of its flash memory business, including the SSD business of the Storage & Electronic Device Solutions Division, to a not-yet-named buyer.

The company, which invented NAND flash in the early 1980s, announced last week it was exploring spinning off its memory business. A Nikkei's Asian Review said Toshiba had been considering spinning off its semiconductor operations and selling a partial stake to Western Digital (WD), "as it tries to cope with a massive impairment loss in its U.S. nuclear power unit."

Toshiba, however, said Friday it has not confirmed a sale to WD.

Toshiba Based on a vertical stacking or 3D technology that Toshiba calls BiCS (Bit Cost Scaling), the company's NAND flash memory stores two bits of data per transistor, meaning it's a multi-level cell (MLC) flash chip. It can store 128Gbits (16GB) per chip.

Toshiba said it is giving "full and careful" consideration regarding the assets to be transferred in the company split, so as to "not interfere with the operation of the Memory business" after the transaction is complete.

The move to spin off its memory business is designed to help it grow through investments a partner could make, the company told investors.

Toshiba and WD already co-operate memory fabrication plants, such as the Fab 2 plant located in Yokkaichi, Japan.

Toshiba Toshiba's and Western Digitals Fab 2 NAND flash manufacturing facility in Yokkaichi, Japan.

Toshiba's solvency and fundraising ability are presently in doubt because of a $1.9 billion accounting scandal and a huge loss related to the nuclear plant purchase. Last week, Toshiba announced its share price had tumbled 13% after reports that its nuclear power business had lost $4.4 billion.

"Its financial problems were a major drag on the growth of its memory business," said Sean Yang, research director of DRAMeXchange.

The Nikkei Asian Review reported that Toshiba may sell a 20% stake in the memory business for between $1.77 billion and $2.65 billion, "while retaining a majority stake and keeping the new company in group earnings."

"Toshiba has positioned the memory business as a focus business where timely investments, accelerated development time and the ability to ramp-up the production of large capacity, highly reliable 3D memory devices (BiCS flash) are essential to meet growing demand for storage," Toshiba said in a shareholder memo. "Splitting off the memory business into a single business entity will afford it greater flexibility in rapid decision-making and enhance financing options, which will lead to further growth of the business and maximize the corporate value of Toshiba Group."

Toshiba plans to hold a special shareholders meeting to vote on the intended split in March; if all goes well, the company plans to finalize the deal March 31.

"Although there are still many undecided items, such as the assets to be transferred, which are still under review, and while the company is still considering various structures with a view to an injection of third-party capital...the company recognizes that some lead-time is required to prepare for the [meeting]," Toshiba said.

Currently, Toshiba and WD together represent 35% of global NAND flash production, according to DRAMeXchange, a division of TrendForce. The leading supplier of NAND flash, Samsung, has a slightly larger share of 36%, while Micron-Intel and SK Hynix account for 17% and 12%, respectively.

Samsung, SK Hynix and Micron are also the three top DRAM suppliers, so their roadmaps for memory products as a whole are much more developed, DRAMeXchange said. By contrast, Toshiba and WD are limited to just the NAND flash industry.

DRAMeXchange said Toshiba's decision to spin off its memory business will give it more operational flexibility and stronger fundraising ability.

"For Toshiba and Western Digital, the capital-intensive nature of the memory industry and the volatility of the end market will make their operational challenges more difficult compared with similar issues encountered by their rivals," DRAMeXchange stated.

In the long run the current Toshiba-Western Digital alliance will enable an expansion in NAND Flash production capacity and increased efficiency in storage product development, according to DRAMeXchange.

Toshiba The clean room in Toshiba's and Western Digital's jointly operated memory fabrication plant in Yokkaichi, Japan

"Toshiba wants to put its memory business in a more stable financial position," Yang said. "Facing mounting operational and competitive pressure, the spun-off entity will be more effective in raising cash to stay afloat or expand."

From the financial angle, Toshiba's latest fiscal quarterly report shows that memory sales roughly made up around 15% of the company's quarterly revenue. However, up to 50% of the company's operating margin for the period came from the same source, which means memory has become the main profit driver for Toshiba, DRAMeXchange noted.

"The spin-off deal therefore intends to make fundraising less difficult for Toshiba's memory business, which will need a steady stream of capital to develop and compete in the memory industry," Yang noted. "As a separate entity, the memory business will be in a better position to make significant changes to its operation and cost structure, making it more attractive to investors. At the same time, Toshiba's move bolsters its NAND flash partnership with Western Digital."
CORNWALL, Ontario  Ontario Drivers will soon face additional penalties on unpaid parking and traffic tickets as the province prepares to employ a program which would deny drivers with delinquent fines their right to renew license plates.

The changes are set to take effect in May 2017, and hopes to crack down on unpaid parking tickets and driving offenses such as careless driving and speeding.

In essence, the province is assigning the municipal government the role of gatekeeper, said Christopher Rogers, who is the citys chief building official and bylaw enforcement supervisor. The municipality does not issue parking tickets, thats the province.

The plate denial process will force drivers to pay up on parking tickets 15 days after they are issued. Failing this, municipalities will trigger a letter advising of impending conviction before increasing the fine. If the fine is still not paid after 75 days, it is once again increased, and the city registers the license plate with the Ministry of Transport of Ontario.

While the changes were offered in efforts to collect outstanding fines more efficiently, those whove purchased a two-year sticker before receiving a ticket may dodge the impact temporarily.

Its important for people to realize that there will be follow-up, said Rogers. Its not an open ended deal, and its not going to go away. You either pay up or dig yourself a deeper hole.

Cornwall Community Police Service Constable Matt Dupuis says that the new legislation will only impact drivers not obeying the rules of the road. Either way, people are going to have to pay their fines, said Dupuis. The province isnt going to keep letting people get away with non-payment.

Rogers says that the implementation of the new process is not just about restoring funds, but more importantly, a matter of safety. He notes that if police issue a ticket, theres likely a transgression that needs to be addressed.

Collectively, I think its for our own good, said Rogers. Were expected to abide by traffic regulations, which are ultimately good for all of us.
Close

Maine lawmakers have approved amendments of the first portion of the marijuana legalization on Thursday. Maine voters backed up the legalization in November and are looking forward for the amendment to take effect on Monday. This will allow adults 21 and above to possess and grow a limited amount of medical marijuana.

The changes approved and certified by Gov. Paul LePage on Dec. 31 will allow consumption of the drug on private property for home medication. This will allow doctors to prescribe cannabis to patients who do not have access to the drug. Further, retail shops are allowed to open this fall but the lawmakers agreed to a three-month delay moving the retail sales to early 2018.

Majority of the voters agreed to legalization, 381,768 in total. Those who opposed were 377,773 and requested a recount but did not continue as it was clear the 3,995 votes point margin did not vary significantly. Most of the voters were mothers that had children with epilepsy and adults experiencing chronic pain or multiple sclerosis.

According to The Daily Chronic, adults 21 and older are allowed to legally possess up to two and a half ounces of marijuana, they can grow up to six flowering marijuana plants and 12 non-flowering plants at home either for recreational or medicinal purposes. Marijuana will still remain illegal in public use and driving. The law will not affect drug-testing policies and employers can still prohibit marijuana use in the workplace.

Come Monday, Maine will be the eighth state that voted to legalize marijuana. Massachusetts, California and Nevada voted in Nov. 9, Dec. 15 and Jan. 1, respectively.

Additionally, while Arizona rejected legalization, it has been approved in Colorado, Washington, Oregon and Alaska.

Augusta Patch reported that marijuana is still prohibited under federal law. The Obama administration waited to see if the states would continue to legalize the drug for home medication. However, Jeff Sessions, newly appointed attorney general and Donald Trump's pick shared that they won't commit to legalization. Trump himself said that it should be a state issue.

See Now: What Republicans Don't Want You To Know About Obamacare
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"We needed to stretch out the length of some of the food," says Tom, of his now-defunct Bennigan's. "It could be a few weeks before more bread arrived, and for the last few days, we would serve bread with mold on it. I had no idea about it until someone complained."

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And if corporate didn't care, why should the employees?

"You know, why vacuum thoroughly if it's closed soon? Why should you wash more if you know you aren't getting many more customers that night? Why throw out the bread when you don't know when more will come in? We had bussers who didn't bother to clear a table before a wipe down, and I'd seat a family at a table where it was all nice and clean until a few inches to the back of the booth -- there'd be a line of crumbs and food from the previous guest showing exactly where he stopped because he didn't feel like reaching in. No one cares, and when people complain, it doesn't change the fact you could be out of a job soon."

UpPiJ/iStock

"Dirty table?! No, that's ... an appetizer. Dig in."

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That's the key, right there: The threat of getting fired doesn't mean much when the whole operation can go belly-up at any moment. Nicole's dire last days at Chi-Chi's were full of constantly checking to see if the dish washers (a group already short on fucks to give) had bothered to do their jobs.
Networking News

Comcast Releases 'Disruptive' Gigabit-Speed Internet In Select Cities, No Fiber Required

Gina Narcisi

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Comcast Business is now offering business customers in four major cities access to gigabit internet speeds simply by changing out their router. The channel partner community is eager to immediately start selling lightning-fast internet options that don't require their customers to be on a carrier's fiber footprint.

Comcast, based in Philadelphia, has rolled out two new high-speed internet services to its business customers in Atlanta, Chicago, Detroit and Nashville. The latest services, Business Internet 1 Gig and Business Internet 500, both use DOCSIS 3.1-based modem technology on Comcast's existing coaxial network.

The two new internet service offerings will give thousands of small and midsized customers access to the speed and network capacity they need to reach cloud-based applications, and are available immediately through the channel, according to Comcast.

[Related: Solution Providers Poised To Pounce On Gigabit Internet Opportunities]

Telarus, a master agent that partners with Comcast explained that the provider's two new services will dramatically increase the amount of bandwidth that has been available to coax users, and won't require any costly infrastructure upgrades, said Patrick Oborn, co-founder of Sandy, Utah-based Telarus.

"We're super-excited for the DOCSIS 3.1-based internet service," Oborn said. "Even though the service does not come with a [service-level agreement] SLA, the overall jump in speed is a huge value-add to companies with high bandwidth utilization."

DOCSIS 3.1 technology gives partners access to gigabit internet services to their end customers who already have access to the Comcast network, Craig Schlagbaum, vice president of indirect channels for Comcast Business told CRN.

"We are seeing companies shift to the cloud. However, any shift of computing resources into the cloud must take bandwidth requirements into account. This new service allows partners to help their clients scale for that quickly and easily," Schlagbaum said.

Business Internet 1 Gig offers connectivity speeds of up to 1 Gbps on the download, and Business Internet 500 offers up to 500 megabits per second (Mbps) on the download. The two tiers join Comcast's existing portfolio of gigabit and multi-gigabit services, which includes Comcast Business Ethernet.

The Federal Communications Commission says is the average U.S. broadband connection speed is about 31 Mbps.

Intelisys, a Petaluma, Calif.- based master agent that partners with Comcast predicts that the rollout of its "fiber-like speeds" delivered over coax will be disruptive across the connectivity market. The provider expects its agent partners will see a lot of success in selling the two new offerings to business customers located within Comcast's service areas.

"For customers that partners have been trying to deliver fiber to for a long time  and haven't been able to because there was either too much construction required or it was too cost-prohibitive  coax is pretty much ubiquitous, so we can offer the kinds of speeds that customers are really demanding today at an incredibly disruptive price point," said Andrew Pryfogle, senior vice president of cloud transformation for Intelisys.

The cable provider announced its plan to offer gigabit-speed internet service via a modem upgraded with DOCSIS 3.1 technology last year. The two new internet services announced this week allows Comcast to keep up with its carrier competition by offering gigabit connectivity speeds, without building out any additional, pricey network infrastructure.

"DOCSIS 3.1 business internet service offers a new and easy plug-and-play option for accessing gigabit speeds in any business environment  whether that is a large distributed enterprise across a wide geographic area or a small business with one or a few locations," said Kevin OToole, senior vice president of product management for Comcast Business in a statement.

To make the switch, business customers already being served by Comcast will need to contact the cable provider or their solution provider partner to request one of the two new services and to order the DOCSIS 3.1 modem, according to Comcast.

Comcast said it plans to launch Business Internet 1 Gig and Business Internet 500 to the rest of its service areas throughout 2017 and into 2018. The provider is targeting Miami, Denver, San Francisco, and Kansas City next.

Atlanta-based competitor Cox Communications has also revealed plans to leverage DOCSIS 3.1 technology early this year.
Apple's Next U.S. Rival?

Outside the U.S., Huawei and its Honor smartphone brand are increasingly becoming a big deal. In the U.S., not so much: Huawei's share of the U.S. market in the third quarter was a paltry 0.4 percent, according to Canalys. But the Chinese company is pushing to change that. Most recently, Huawei launched a smartphone during CES 2017 in Las Vegas, the Honor 6X, that is aimed at grabbing millennial customers away from Apple's iPhone brand. While touting customer satisfaction scores for the Honor brand on par with those of the iPhone, Huawei Honor President Ming Zhao said during CES: "We know that today's young people want to have everything. Today, Honor 6X gives them that."

But does it? In the following slides, the CRN Test Center breaks down how the Huawei's Honor 6X compares to the similar-sized Apple iPhone 7 Plus on specs and price.
Mark Wilson | Getty Images

SXSW, the annual Austin festival celebrating music, technology and music, is known for bringing in at least a few huge names ripped from the headlines of the day.

2014 saw a conversation with Edward Snowden and the ACLU on mass surveillance, one that needed to be held virtually, since the former NSA worker couldnt freely return the United States.
You take compliments where you can find them. They are few and far between, by the way. Critics, on the other hand, are flat out chatty and prolific. .

Being called a miraculous survivor and a saurian relic from a bygone time doesnt seem especially flattering.

But Ill tell you: that Robert Sopher, of Milford, well, the guys got a way with words. Hes actually one sweet-talking hombre.

To get this out of the way quickly, according to Websters New World Dictionary, saurian means, of, or having the characteristics of, lizards.

Sopher indeed sent me to the dictionary on this one. And while there, I looked up dino and, sure enough, its from the Greek and means terrible, dreadful,: and is a prefix and can be applied to other words, hence, dinosaur - terrible, dreadful lizard.

Okay, class is over.

Sophers description came in a letter to the editor that was printed on Friday. The gist of it was that he took issue with the editorial that appeared on the Opinion page critical of President Donald Trumps immigration stance. He noted contrasts with my column, which appeared on the same page.

Now, bear with me because this is not an entirely narcissistic exercise.

... Daly, a saurian relic from a bygone time, a miraculous survivor from when reporters were reporters and writers thought about their words, told us of his three daughters marching on Saturday.

In spite of their concerns and his own left-wing leaning, Daly concedes that: She (Clinton) lost; Donald Trump won. Period... he is a perfectly legitimate president...

Like many of his now-extinct kin in the press, Daly puts respect for our system, a pride among nations, above rank partisanship.

Wow. Ive been forwarding this note to as many relics as I can.

But heres the point: There is a vast army of people, as described by Sopher, working in the legitimate, respected, non-partisan, curious, intrepid, thoughtful, selfless and articulate ranks of the American press. They have no partisan axe to grind. Many are intentionally not registered with a political party and got into this work to be journalists, people who record the days events and try to bring perspective to them.

Donald Trumps smirking smearing of the press  in his lets make up speech to CIA employees last week, he joshed I always call them the dishonest media, but they treated me nicely, referring to coverage of his inauguration  is out of his campaign playbook: Crooked Hillary, Little Marco, and so on.

His ongoing smear campaign does a disservice not only to members of the legitimate press, but to the American people as he tries to undermine their confidence in what they read, see and hear from even the most responsible news organizations.

I came across slight, but telling, evidence last week that maybe its not working. Christina Dady, of New Britain, is a 26-year old student in the University of Connecticuts early childhood development program. Her schooling has brought her through the center in Westport where my wife works.

Shes a well-informed young woman who uses BuzzFeed to get her news and also uses the BBC to avoid the cacklers of American television. She listened to Trumps CIA speech the other day. I was really disturbed at what he was saying about the press. Dady, who marched in Washington last weekend, said she and many of her peers are quickly developing an appreciation for how important the press is in America, particularly now.

To be supportive, she said she is going to subscribe to.... The New York Times.

Michael J. Daly is editor of the editorial page of the Connecticut Post. Email: mdaly@ctpost.com.
There is a storied history of the United States accidentally disrespecting its closest ally, the United Kingdom.

In 2009, U.K. Prime Minister Gordon Brown gave U.S. President Barack Obama an ornamental pen holder made from the timbers of the Victorian anti-slave ship HMS Gannet. In exchange, Brown received a bunch of DVDs.

That same year, Obama gave Queen Elizabeth II an iPod (to be fair, she gave him a photo of herself). In 2011, at a banquet at Buckingham Palace, Obama mistakenly spoke over the British national anthem. And not to get into the removal of the bust of Winston Churchill from the Oval Office, but . . . Obama took the bust of Winston Churchill out of the Oval Office.

But Fridays visit by Prime Minister Theresa May to the White House was different. May, to make her case that Britain is somehow becoming more global by leaving the European Union, needed to demonstrate just how special the special relationship was (even though Britain cannot sign a trade deal with the United States until after its divorce with the European Union was finalized). And U.S. President Donald Trump, on the heels of Mexican President Enrique Pena Nietos cancelled visit, likely wanted to demonstrate that he could, in fact, conduct diplomacy. Both sides, in other words, wanted this visit to go smoothly.

Alas, we cant always get what we want.

First, the White House Press Conference issued a statement in which Theresa Mays name was spelled incorrectly. Three times. Foreign Policys Molly OToole pointed out on Twitter her name was misspelled Teresa.

Must the indignities suffered by UK PM Theresa May never cease?!

According to at least one former deputy assistant secretary, Moira Whelan, that was not good.

This may seem funny but its not. This is insulting to a head of state. And amateurish. No one checked w/ Protocol, clearly.

Then, the British press corps was locked out of the White House because their dates of birth were submitted in U.K. form.

Then, per a White House pool report, there was this exchange:

Its a great honor to have Winston Churchill back, Potus said.

Its a great honor to be here, PM May said in response.

It is almost as if Trump was supposed to say that the honor was having not just a bust of a former prime minister, but also having the real live prime minister in the White House.

Then came the joint press conference.

While the two stressed their shared interests (i.e. U.S.-U.K. trade, the working people) and their support of the special relationship (the phrase was used at least four or five times), the press conference was not without its uncomfortable moments.

For example, Trump noted that his mother was born in Scotland and that he was in Scotland celebrating Brexit. Scotland voted overwhelmingly to remain in the European Union, and now may hold a second referendum to leave the United Kingdom. He went on to say that, while he was scorned for saying Brexit would happen, he was indeed proven correct, and that it will be a wonderful thing for the United Kingdom. May, who gained the prime ministership after Brexit, and who now must see Brexit through, campaigned against it.

There was also the moment BBCs Laura Kuenssberg, (who was finally admitted to the White House), asked what Trump would say to the British people who are nervous to have him as leader of the free world. There goes that relationship!, the president joked.

Still, the story ends for now on a happy note (at least publicly). Trump said at the press conference that he and Theresa will get along very well. And May assured her audience that the two are listening to each other. The point of the special relationship is that were able to have that open and frank discussion.

And also for the prime minister to give the president an engraved Quaich, an engraved cup of friendship from Trumps ancestral Scotland.

Emily Tamkin is a Washington Post columnist

.
Still Standing: Four the Moments legacy honoured at Nova Scotia Music Week

When a quartet of Halifax women began singing together a cappella in the name of social justice in 1982, there was little in the way of a music industry at play in Atlantic Canada. And even if there had been, its likely that Four the Moment would ...
We must rethink the U.S. response to infectious disease. Here's why.
Life is swell when your mother is age-defying glamour puss Elizabeth Hurley.

Not only has her 14-year-old son, Damian, already nabbed a role in her TV series, The Royals, but now he's also been given a leg-up into the competitive world of fashion photography, with his mother acting as his muse.

Publicity-savvy designer Elizabeth, 51, ensured she was wearing a 162 blue crystal bikini from her own swimwear line when he took this picture in the Maldives which she shared on social media.

Although the image was taken by Damian, the compliments were directed at the subject. 'Total babe,' wrote one admirer.

Hot mama! Elizabeth Hurley, 51, flaunted her age-defying appearance in a barely-there blue bikini as she shared a sexy Instagram snap from her Indian holiday on Thursday

Fun in the sun: The actress was joined on her winter sunshine break by her son Damian, 14, who poked fun at his advancing height and joked he was overtaking his mother

Take her back: Her swimwear of choice continued to showcase her endless toned pins as the strapless detail exhibited her pristine decolletage as she captioned the snap '#takemeback'

Actor and comedian Sanjeev Bhaskar confirms he went from being just good friends to engaged to his future wife, TV colleague and co-star Meera Syal, during the course of a long-haul flight to Australia where they were seated next to each other.

'Pretty much,' he laughs. 'But it was 24 hours  a long time to be stuck with someone. And I can't sleep on planes, so having watched everything there is to watch ...'

Brings a new meaning to speed dating.

The House of Commons select committee on Brexit is off on a fact-finding trip to Boston.

But don't worry. Next week's jaunt is not to Boston, Massachusetts, but Boston in Lincolnshire, the most pro-Brexit town in the country.

Arch Remainer Hilary Benn  the committee's chairman  and his fellow Europhiles on the committee are holding an evidence session there on Thursday. Let's hope they admit anyone and not just approved guests.

Arch Remainer Hilary Benn  the committee's chairman  and his fellow Europhiles on the committee are holding an evidence session there on Thursday

While his late friend and comic partner Mel Smith was known for his excesses, comedian and actor Griff Rhys Jones cuts a monk-like figure nowadays. He names his secret vice as...

'Cheese. It's virtually all I have left,' he says. 'I've not had a drink in over 30 years.

'Most of the other vices have gradually left me, not the other way around. I don't eat sugar or processed food, even.'

Jones, 63, who stars in an adaptation of Moliere's The Miser in the West End next month, adds: 'My indulgences now are exercise and fizzy water.'

You Can Quote Me On That

'DONALD TRUMP has a severe case of Narcissistic Presidency Disorder and we're all stuck in a destructive relationship with him.'

Kate Rothschild, heiress

'I would walk naked through London and swim in the Serpentine. And then dry off at Buckingham Palace with the soft towels.'

Actress Caroline Quentin on if she were invisible for a day

'I hear music in the sounds of nature, so in the shower I'd be listening to the music the water was making.'

Musician Mike Oldfield, 63

Let's hope Billy Joel hasn't put Liverpudlian noses out of joint. Of The Beatles, he says: 'They didn't look manufactured in Hollywood. They were from Liverpool, which sounds even worse than where I'm from, Hicksville [in Long Island].'
In a typically knee-jerk response, the Labour Party has called for Sir John Rose, who was chief executive throughout most of that period, to be stripped of his knighthood

There has been a deafening chorus of denunciation over the past week of Rolls-Royce, the great British engineering giant.

This followed the revelation that the firm had owned up to 'extensive systematic bribery and corruption' dating back more than 20 years.

In a typically knee-jerk response, the Labour Party has called for Sir John Rose, who was chief executive throughout most of that period, to be stripped of his knighthood.

There is also talk that he could face criminal charges as the Serious Fraud Office contemplates whether to bring prosecutions.

True, the charge-sheet against Rolls-Royce looks damning.

After a long investigation, the High Court ruled that it had been responsible for 'egregious criminality over decades' that implicated 'very senior executives' and the 'controlling minds' of the company.

In a withering judgment, Sir Brian Leveson said the firm was guilty of 'the most serious breaches of the criminal law in the area of bribery and corruption'.

Rolls-Royce escaped possible criminal charges by agreeing to pay 671 million in fines and penalties to the Serious Fraud Office, the U.S. Department of Justice and to prosecuting authorities in Brazil in respect of corrupt practices in order to obtain contracts in 12 countries: Indonesia (where the firm bribed a senior figure with a Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit luxury car), China, Malaysia, Thailand, India, Iraq, Russia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Nigeria, Angola and Brazil.

Let me stress immediately that bribery and corruption are morally wrong. But I want to speak up for Sir John Rose and his colleagues.

The truth is that they are patriots who should be celebrated rather than pilloried. I believe a grave injustice may have been done to them.

Above all, those who are loudly lambasting Rolls-Royce bosses have no comprehension of how business is done in the modern world.

More specifically, the root cause of Rolls's problems dates back (like so many of the problems currently facing Britain) to the actions of the Blair government.

There is also talk that he could face criminal charges as the Serious Fraud Office contemplates whether to bring prosecutions

A former lawyer with no clue about how international business deals are made, he cynically presented himself as a moral crusader who would get rid of the sleaze and corruption which he claimed had been the presiding culture during the previous 18 years of Tory-run Britain.

And so, one of his government's earliest initiatives was to pass a Bribery Act.

A NOBLE MAN WHO'S NOT ON THE MAKE Sadly, it seems that David Cameron and George Osborne are following the disreputable example of Tony Blair and trying to exploit their government experience by making as much money for themselves as fast as they can. By contrast, at least one former PM and ex-Chancellor has maintained decent standards of honesty and propriety. Gordon Brown made mistakes when in power, but post-Downing Street he has nobly dedicated his life to be an advocate of numerous non-profit organisations, campaigns and causes. Advertisement

Of course, bribery  the provision of private payments or inducements in order to obtain an advantage  was already illegal, but the new law introduced further penalties and included the actions of companies' agents.

Although this gave the Blair government a patina of virtuousness, the naivete increased the enormous problems for Britons trying to do business abroad.

The fact is that there are vast areas of the globe  including much of Africa, the Middle East, Asia and the sub-continent of India  where bribery is standard practice.

In some cultures, it is not even considered wrong or immoral. Instead, it is seen as a way of life which dates back centuries if not millennia.

All of our competitors use bribes. Most egregiously, the French, the Italians, the Americans and more recently the Chinese have been happy to offer them as inducements to win major contracts.

In many places, it is simply impossible to do business without using bribery.

As a result, British exporters have found themselves at a massive disadvantage. They were being asked to compete for business against ruthless rivals in some of the most brutally competitive markets in the world.

Ultimately, those who suffered most were British workers.

For example, Rolls-Royce has been a superb employer for many decades, offering brilliant careers and apprenticeships in high-skilled manufacturing to tens of thousands of Britons. At risk, therefore, was not only the future of the British economy but also the jobs of people which New Labour claimed it was desperate to support.

After Sir John Rose became chief executive of Rolls-Royce in 1999, he quickly proved himself to be a magnificent example of British management  fighting like a tiger on behalf of his firm and workers, and consolidating Rolls's reputation as one of the greatest aeronautical companies in the world.

In many people's estimation, Britain is hugely in Sir John's debt for what he achieved.

However, one of the biggest problems he faced was the Bribery Act.

Put simply, he faced a choice between allowing Rolls-Royce to be destroyed by foreign rivals who did not have to abide by such niceties as Mr Blair's wide-eyed anti-bribery law, or devise a way of dealing with it.

OUR MAN IN WASHINGTON I was critical of Britains ambassador to the U.S., Sir Kim Darroch, for his failure to develop strong contacts with Donald Trump and his team ahead of his unexpected election last November to the presidency. Now, I realise I was too harsh. Considering how quickly Theresa May was invited to meet the new president at the White House yesterday, it is clear than Our Man in Washington has been making up lost ground. Advertisement

And, make no mistake, Rolls's foreign rivals were every bit as corrupt, if not more, than the British firm. For the list of those who have been suspected of engaging in corrupt arrangements to secure vital deals includes an A-to-Z of nations.

Typically, major French firms have bribed officials from Nigeria to Malaysia and from Costa Rica to Taiwan. German giants have used corruption to win big contracts. A Japanese nuclear company and a Brazilian aircraft manufacturer have been exposed for paying bribes.

In this context, it is understandable if Rolls-Royce's Sir John Rose cut some corners and made some foolish mistakes.

But there is no suggestion that personal venality was involved. His sole intention was to fight for the company he loved and, by extension, to fight for Britain plc.

Incidentally, his brilliant record can be contrasted with that of his critics. Take Barry Gardiner, Labour's international trade spokesman, who splutters that Sir John 'is not fit to hold his knighthood'.

Let it not be forgotten that this is the same Barry Gardiner who was caught up in the MPs' expenses scandal  having made 198,500 profit from a flat funded and refurbished at taxpayers' expense.

After a long investigation, the High Court ruled that it had been responsible for 'egregious criminality over decades' that implicated 'very senior executives' and the 'controlling minds' of the company

Also, three years ago he was described as the 'Junket King of Commons' after being flown around world by lobby groups. Over 15 years, an international climate change organisation paid 55,000 for Mr Gardiner to spend 98 days travelling the world, to push its agenda to combat global warming.

Barry Gardiner has no right to lecture Sir John Rose about anything, let alone financial integrity. If the Labour MP for Brent North truly cared about the working people, he would speak out in support of Rolls-Royce.

For, make no mistake, there are many around the world who are trying to trash the reputation of one of Britain's greatest companies.

If this continues, tens of thousands of British men and women, with families to support, risk losing their jobs.

I am not claiming that Rolls-Royce has done everything by the book. Clearly it has erred.

But it's time more people spoke up for one of Britain's truly great companies and the proud, superbly skilled workers it employs.
The pictures of Rory McGrath's loyal wife Nicola hugging him and smiling at him outside court this week showed a very public display of affection.

McGrath had just been given a suspended sentence for conducting a long campaign of harassment against his ex-mistress and her family after she broke off their five-year affair.

Nicola endured not only the private agony of the affair but also the public humiliation of the court case, which revealed how, during his 14-month stalking campaign, the 60-year-old comedian tormented his former mistress with endless texts and intimate photos and sent menacing messages to her husband.

Comedian Rory McGrath (pictured outside court with wife Nicola) avoided jail despite having conducted a lengthy campaign of harassment against a married woman

The court heard how, when he'd been spurned, McGrath described himself as suffering 'the madness of the addict who can't get what he wants'.

Yet despite the terrible pain this must have caused Nicola, she is publicly standing by her man  just like so many women have before her.

As McGrath's lawyer said: 'His wife's ability to understand his conduct is nothing short of phenomenal.'

Remarkably, 60-year-old McGrath's marriage has survived this treachery and he and his wife Nicola were pictured hugging each other outside the court

Nicola's determination to 'heal their relationship' is admirable. But doesn't this tawdry case reveal the horrifying extent of the suffering that can be caused by extramarital affairs?

McGrath was supported in court by his wife Nicola, and thanked the judge when told of his suspended ten-week prison sentence

It is not just the heartache between McGrath and his wife. The affair destroyed the former mistress's marriage and devastated her children. And it's difficult to imagine what McGrath's two children with his first wife have had to go through. Yet our society seems gripped by a fever of adultery, with an estimated one-third of married couples cheating, and the dating website Ashley Madison  which specialises in extra-marital liaisons  having one million users.

Last Sunday, five million viewers tuned in to the BBC's rampant new series Apple Tree Yard, in which Emily Watson plays a 50-year-old mum locked in a humdrum marriage. Ripe for passion, she hooks up with a suave but predatory civil servant with a penchant for sex in public places.

Within minutes of encountering him at a conference, they're at it in a broom cupboard. 'Sex may be an animal pleasure,' she says, 'but adultery is a human one.' For her  like McGrath  it becomes an addiction, one she is prepared to risk everything for.

Apple Tree Yard glamorises adultery  although we are given a hint of disaster to come when we flash-forward to the future and our 'heroine' is seen handcuffed in a police van.

I do hope the series shows the other side of the adultery coin: the bitterness, the broken families, the misery.

Yes, there are times when love dies and leaving is the right thing to do, however painful. But often, having an affair is the opposite of glamorous.

As McGrath found, it's like strapping an emotional suicide vest to your chest and walking into the midst of those you love. Before detonating it.

The former panellist on They Think It's All Over, the BBC sports quiz show, also reduced the woman's teenage daughter to tears by suggesting she had a 'personality disorder'

Gina plays sex card

While I deplore the vile social media abuse that Brexit challenger Gina Miller has been subjected to, it's a bit ripe for the multi-millionairess to claim she has been attacked because she's a woman.

If a man had fibbed about his law degree (as she did) and presented himself in the smug, sanctimonious, self-promoting way she does, he would have received the same angry response.

And if she doubts this, perhaps Mrs Miller should take a look at the social media comments directed at her fellow Remoaners Tony Blair and Sir Richard Branson.

While I deplore the vile social media abuse that Brexit challenger Gina Miller has been subjected to, it's a bit ripe for the multi-millionairess to claim she has been attacked because she's a woman

La La? I wish I hadn't bothered

Not for 20 years has a movie had as many Oscar nominations as La La Land  14 in total. So it was with much excitement I went to see it with a gay friend who adores a musical. We were ready to leave after 30 minutes.

Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone can't dance or sing. The burger we had afterwards had more sexual chemistry than they did.

When I said to my friend, about Gosling: 'Ed Balls dances better than him,' he replied: 'And Ann Widdecombe better than her.' So much hysteria for such a silly movie. That's Hollywood for you!

Having just won yet another best-presenter award, Ant and Dec received their OBEs yesterday. With them were their wives Lisa and Ali. The thing we love about Ant and Dec is they're so un-showbizzy. At the palace, they wore morning suits, and their wives didn't have a split skirt or plunging cleavage between them.

Much hand-wringing from the Left as it is revealed the number of people sleeping rough in the UK has risen by 50 per cent. Those of us living in big cities can see it for ourselves.

I spoke to one of three new arrivals begging in the area I live in north London. He said he'd just arrived from Romania.

Why was he here, I asked? He looked at me as though I was stupid and said he could 'earn' more on the streets of London in a month than at his old job in a factory in his home city of Bucharest in a year.

And he's already applied for a council flat and plans to bring his family here. Bring on Brexit.

A risky name game

The adorable Alex Jones, co-presenter of the BBC's very popular The One Show, has just had a much-longed-for baby at the age of 39.

She thought it was too late for such happiness, but managed to phone the show live to share her wonderful news. Alex said the first days with her new son were so precious, but now she wants to share him with the nation and has invited viewers to help her choose a name.

Does she really want a boy called Dwayne?

The adorable Alex Jones, co-presenter of the BBC's very popular The One Show, has just had a much-longed-for baby at the age of 39

Madonna's Mission

One moment she's ranting against Trump, saying she wants to blow up the White House. The next, Madonna is in demure mode, trying to adopt twin girls in Malawi.

Quite why the twice-divorced, 58-year-old mother-of-four with a penchant for men half her age feels she is ready for motherhood again is anyone's guess, especially since she's had such a difficult relationship with her son Rocco.

But perhaps I've got it wrong. Perhaps Madonna was on a different kind of search in Africa  looking for a new toyboy.

One moment she's ranting against Trump, saying she wants to blow up the White House. The next, Madonna is in demure mode, trying to adopt twin girls in Malawi

It has been almost 30 years since a naked, heavily pregnant Demi Moore graced the cover of Vanity Fair, photographed by Annie Leibovitz.

Next month we have Natalie Portman in an advanced state of pregnancy. Same snapper, same mag, but this time the subject can actually act.

Sad to see that Jane Fonda has parted from Richard Perry, her partner of eight years. Especially since the actress, who's been serially disappointed on the romantic front, had said: 'I'm with a man who's very different from the others. He's kind. Nobody teaches young women to look for kindness. We look for glamour, sexiness, but no one says maybe the quieter ones are the better ones in the long haul.' The break-up appears to be due to her 'rededicating herself to activism'. Burning a few bras on a demo are cold comfort when you can't keep the love of a good man.

Sad to see that Jane Fonda has parted from Richard Perry, her partner of eight years. Especially since the actress, who's been serially disappointed on the romantic front, had said: 'I'm with a man who's very different from the others. He's kind. Nobody teaches young women to look for kindness. We look for glamour, sexiness, but no one says maybe the quieter ones are the better ones in the long haul.' The break-up appears to be due to her 'rededicating herself to activism'. Burning a few bras on a demo are cold comfort when you can't keep the love of a good man.

Westminster wars...

+ In her forthcoming memoirs A Woman's Work, Harriet Harman reveals that over 40 years ago a university lecturer said he'd bump up her degree if she slept with him.

He is now dead, so has no right of reply. Though judging by his obituaries, he was a highly respected and much-admired married man at the time.

It's a bit of a cheap shot, Harriet, and a sordid way to sell your memoirs. Just remember, revealing all about her private life didn't do Edwina Currie any favours.

+ Chairman of the Women and Equalities Committee Maria Miller thinks making women wear heels at work should be outlawed. Yes, it should be a choice, but millions of women find heels empowering. Never more so than for Prime Minister Theresa May, the woman who won't give this frumpy, expenses-cheating ex-minister a job.

Crisis? What crisis?

We all know the NHS is in crisis and it's easier to get an appointment with celebrity hairdresser Nicky Clarke than with your local GP.

So it is astonishing that some of these 'overworked' nine-to-five doctors want to charge patients for minor surgical procedures after agreeing to open after normal surgery hours.

A group of them are prepared to work evenings and weekends  offering effectively a private service  and are planning to pocket the proceeds.

Yes, these are the same GPs who in 2004 took Tony Blair's deal to bump their salaries up by 20,000 to 110,000  in return for working fewer hours and closing their surgeries at weekends.
British diamond firm unearths 6 MILLION diamond in Lesotho

Gem Diamonds' stunning stone weighs 164 carats and worth 6m rough



Large rare gem found in Letseng Mine in Lesotho, South Africa



Is currently being computer analysed in Antwerp to discover full value

UK firm found 11m 550 carat sparkler in 2011 - world's 14th biggest

World's biggest diamond was found in 1906 and weighed 3,106 carats



They say that diamonds are a girl's best friend.

And some lucky girls will never be short of friends thanks to another sparkling find by British miners Gem Diamonds Limited .

Supplying to prestigious clients such as Harry Winston - Marilyn Monroe's jeweller of choice - the diamond producer has dug up some of the largest most valuable gems in the world.

Gem Diamonds sold the 164 carat type IIa rough diamond 'of an exceptional quality' for 6m

In addition to the recovery of the 164 carat diamond, a 103 carat gem was also recovered from the Main pipe

In 2011 they uncovered the world's 14th biggest white diamond from their South African Letseng mine - which they sold for 11million in the rough - and now, the same fruitful bit of land has sprouted another super gem.

The 164 carat beast was discovered on April 30 and has already been sold in the rough for 6million.

These diamonds and anything of their size are rare to recover, especially when they are of high first class quality.

Though the real test to find the gem's worth comes now as it's currently being computer analysed in Antwerp, Belgium, as experts look for flaws and weaknesses - but say it's value can only increase.

Marilyn Monroe, on the set of Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, was a fan of Harry Winston, one of Gem's clients

Large round cut diamonds are in high demand at the moment, so Gem might be hoping to find a part of the stone suitable for this purpose.

Gem tell the MailOnline that the manufacturing process is a complicated one to understand:



'The 164ct is an exceptional D colour, type IIa rough diamond with the potential to yield flawless polished diamonds.



'The initial analysis, using Gem Diamonds' high tech computerised analytical capability in Antwerp (Baobab Technologies) revealed a number of potential polished options with respect to quantity, size, shape and clarity of the individual polished diamonds.

'Now that the diamond has been sold, it will be sent for closer examination, where windows (polished surfaces) are opened onto the stone to allow for greater accuracy in determining the most optimal polished value through the use of computer algorithms.

'While South African diamonds have in the past faced controversy over being a potential produce of conflict, Gem pride themselves in complying with the Kimberley Process'

'The most optimal solution from a valuation and marketing perspective will then be chosen and the stone will then be laser sawn into a number of pieces, shaped and then polished to deliver the potentially flawless polished diamonds.



'These large high value polished diamonds are eventually purchased by the highest end retail brands, such as Graff, Harry Winston and Moussaieff etc. and are set into unique pieces of jewellery for sale to their high net worth customers.'

While South African diamonds have in the past faced controversy over being a potential produce of conflict, Gem pride themselves in complying with the Kimberley Process established in 2003 to prevent conflict (blood) diamonds from entering the mainstream rough diamond market.

A spokesman said: 'Gem Diamonds continues to comply with Kimberley Process initiative.



'The Gem Diamonds Group is committed to the principles and practices of sustainable development and believe an active and engaged approach to sustainability to be key to their ability to meet responsibilities to all stakeholders: shareholders, employees, communities and the environment.'

The diamond, recovered from the Main pipe at the Letseng mine, is expected to produce top colour and top clarity polished diamonds and has been sold into a profit sharing arrangement for 6million (37,000 per carat), whereby the rough price is received upfront.



The 550 carat diamond, the world's 13th biggest ever (l) and a pair of Graff earrings made with Gem stones (r)



Letseng Diamonds will benefit further from a significant share of the downstream polished margin from the sale of the polished diamonds.

Further work focusing on reducing diamond damage at Letseng continues and it is pleasing to report that in addition to the recovery of the 164 carat diamond, a 103 carat diamond was also recovered from the Main pipe during May 2013 and that both diamonds were undamaged.



The 103 carat diamond, which is not of the same high quality as the 164 carat diamond, will be sold on the next tender in June.

Gem Diamonds CEO, Clifford Elphick stated: 'The recovery and sale of this high quality 164 carat white diamond reinforces Letseng's position as the premier source of exceptional diamonds.'
As a time-poor single mother of two young children, Alizah Maryanka knew a thing or two about not having enough hours in the day to prepare nutritious, delicious lunchboxes for her kids.

In fact, she said she was being 'tipped over the edge' by trying to fit in the activity.

This is just one of the reasons why Ms Maryanka set up Foodie Packs, a Sydney-based business which provides kids with colourful, tasty lunchboxes - and stops their parents from fretting about making them the night before.

Alizah Maryanka (pictured with her two children) told Daily Mail Australia that as a single working mum, she was being 'tipped over the edge' by having to make packed lunches

This is just one of the reasons why she set up Foodie Packs (pictured), a Sydney-based business which provides kids with colourful, tasty lunchboxes

'I'm just like any other single mother who works full time,' Ms Maryanka said. 'I work seven days a week, I'm time-poor and I value the little time I do spend with my kids doing things'

'I'm just like any other single mother who works full time,' Ms Maryanka told Daily Mail Australia.

'I work seven days a week, I'm time-poor and I value the little time I do spend with my kids doing things,' she said.

I work seven days a week, I'm time-poor and I value the little time I do spend with my kids doing things

When they Sydney-based mother first came up with the idea for Foodie Packs, she went to several Australian manufacturers and found that there was nothing like them on the market.

So, Ms Marylanka set about devising her own, and 18 months later, Foodie Packs is about to be stocked in Woolworths stores around Sydney.

'Foodie Packs has gone through nutritionists, food clinics and more,' Ms Maryanka said.

'While it's quite a simple idea, it's actually quite complicated to ensure you get perfect portions of fruit, veggies etc, which stay fresh.'

When they Sydney-based mother (pictured) first came up with the idea, she went to several manufacturers and found that there was nothing like her idea on the market

So, Ms Maryanka started devising her own, and 18 months later, Foodie Packs look set to be stocked in Woolworths stores

'We have about 12 different packs under the umbrellas of Sandwiches, Sushi (pictured) and Pasta,' Ms Marylanka said

'Interestingly, we found that kids love both the clear packaging, so that they can see what they're eating, and the fact that the foods come in snack-sized portions and different shapes'

At present, the business works by mothers buying a week's worth of Foodie Packs.

The lunches are priced at AUD $10 each, and get delivered to homes each Sunday - where they will last until the following Friday.

In the past, Ms Maryanka used to send her kids to school with veggies that came home

'We have about 12 different packs under the umbrellas of Sandwiches, Sushi and Pasta,' Ms Marylanka said.

'Interestingly, we found that kids love both the clear packaging, so that they can see what they're eating, and the fact that the foods come in snack-sized portions and different shapes.

'I used to send my kids to school with tomatoes and carrot sticks in little zip lock bags and they'd come home again uneaten.

'But now I send them in the foodie packs and they return home empty. There's something about the presentation kids just love.'

However, now she said she sends them in with the Foodie Packs, she said they come home empty - 'there's something about the presentation kids just love,' she said

While the boxes might seem expensive to some, Ms Marylanka said that they are only as expensive as they need to be.

'Fresh fruit and veg in general are more expensive than chocolate, because they can't sit on the shelves for a year. Plus they're quite labour intensive.

'The people we are targeting are people who want convenience and variety for their children. They might not use an entire rockmelon in a week, but they might want to give some to their kids on one day. With Foodie Packs, they can.'

Ms Marylanka added that the packaging is also 100 per cent recyclable, and can be used for other things, too:

'They stack really nicely on shelves with toys in them, you can put paint in them during art and craft, and we donate lots of them to schools,' she said.

'My kids love them, and love learning about shapes through their packed lunches.'

Ms Marylanka added that the packaging is also 100 per cent recyclable, and can be used for other things, too - such as keeping paint inside or stacking toys

Former Spice Girl, Mel B, is a fan - she gave one of the lunches to her daughter when she was in Sydney (pictured)

With the move into Woolworths stores imminent, Ms Marylanka hopes that this is just the beginning for Foodie Packs.

'We hope to expand the menu, and move into other parts of Australia soon, too' she said.

'We're also going to move into making dinners, for the even-more-stressed mums who simply don't have the time to get everything done AND get dinner on the table for 6pm.

'Being a single working mum of two kids under four meant that I was extremely time-poor before I had Foodie Packs.

'Quality time with my children was non-existent and morning lunch making just tipped me over the edge.

'These days, I can sit with my daughter and help to teach her to read. For others like me, I hope Foodie Packs can help.'

For more information on Foodie Packs, click here.
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK I've found that there is always some beauty left - in nature, sunshine, freedom, in yourself; these can all help you. From The Diary Of A Young Girl by Anne Frank (1929-1945) Advertisement

Dear Bel,

I was 18 when I met my former boyfriend, the first man Id ever really fallen in love with  kind, funny and so sweet.

When he went off to university it upset me, but I always supported him.

From the first night he moved away he cheated on me. He continued the deception (I found out later) for seven months.

I should have been smarter and recognised the signs  hardly ever coming home and barely speaking to me for weeks at a time.

Eventually, I found a text message on his phone that broke my heart.

I made the mistake of asking him when he was drunk to tell me what had gone so wrong.

His answer was to pin me to the wall and tell me I was the worst thing that had ever happened to him, but that he loved me more than anything.

I gave him a choice between me and the other girl and he told me that he couldnt pick between us. I left him and didnt hear from him for around five months.

Then I contacted him again  hurting someone in the process. I cut contact once more.

Since then we have both been in other relationships and he has moved to another part of the country.

Im now 24. He has never really stopped trying to contact me: a message, a Facebook friend request, a follow on Twitter or Instagram, even the odd call or text.

My friends and family dislike him. On some occasions I have contacted him back and have always regretted it.

Ive tried to forgive him, tried to be friendly, tried not to be friendly, tried changing my name on social media.

I dont know how else to tell him we cant be friends and that I could never love or trust him again.

I know hes sorry, I know he misses me and I know I was the best girlfriend he ever had and how much he regrets hurting me.

How do I tell someone the past is the past and that he has to move on?

ELLIE

You are a lucky young woman (your whole life before you) who should stand tall  raising a fist like a feisty female  and get rid of this useless man clogging up your mind and heart.

What is it with some women that they cling to losers? Roll over and cry: Hurt me again?

Why dont they have the strength of mind to sing out, Go now!  and really mean it? How come they simply cannot see just how much of their own fault all this is?

Yes, Ellie, Im looking at you here! In your longer letter, you write: So I guess I am partly to blame... And all of us want to shake you gently and say: Wake up, pet  of course you are!

Let me immediately underline that if you have any fear this guy is stalking you, then the situation becomes very different. It would be obvious to you then that you should tell people and get help. Be very clear about that.

But all my instincts tell me thats not the case here. Instead, they say you locked yourself into him emotionally when you were 18 and have never had the strength to cut all ties  even though he behaved so badly and everyone you care about dislikes him.

In your uncut letter you used the word weak, so you do know the fault is largely your own. That being the case, why did you write to me? You must surely have known what Id say. So I will.

Your ongoing weakness is evident when you write: I know hes sorry, I know he misses me and I know I was the best girlfriend he ever had and how much he regrets hurting me. Oh, come on! How feeble does that sound? You dont know anything of the kind and the fact that you wrote it proves you are still (at heart) a deluded victim. Its time to give it a rest and toughen up, my girl.

Do you know the Paul Simon song, Fifty Ways To Leave Your Lover? It starts: The problem is all inside your head, she said to me / The answer is easy if you take it logically / Id like to help you in your struggle to be free / There must be fifty ways to leave your lover.

The lyric then lists some of the ways: You just slip out the back, Jack / Make a new plan, Stan / You dont need to be coy, Roy / Just get yourself free. And so on. At 24, you owe it to yourself to be free of this old, dead relationship.

Nobody else can help you face up to your own truth; you have to delve deep within and haul out all your womanly strength yourself. At this stage it will necessitate your being much nastier than ever in the past.

Changing your name on social media is the action of a victim, not somebody in charge. What would happen if you totally ignored every single communication? Would he grow tired in the end? I suspect he would.

That is the only way, but you could kick off the communication blackout with the crudest, four-letter instruction as to what to do with himself. I certainly would.

Should I let my wastrel son go to jail?

Dear Bel,

I was a single parent in the Seventies and struggled to make the best life I could. I went to college and qualified as a teacher to enable me to take school holidays, as I had little help with childcare.

I did well and bought a house, and later married a wealthy man. My son, an only child, did well at school, but seemed to resent my marriage. He got into mischief, fell in with the wrong crowd, sailed through GCSEs, but failed his A-levels. He then neither wanted to go to university or leave home.

He had a series of dead-end jobs beneath his capabilities. Hes had serious relationships, but they all ended due to his failure to commit. Hes never been able to manage his money and is always in debt. Now he lives in a house owned by us, but his life seems to be spiralling downwards.

We tried to help him start a business, but that failed. He has been unemployed for some time and I have discovered he has huge council tax debts. I suspect he has a gambling problem, but will not admit it.

Hes never been in trouble with the police, but I worry it might be a matter of time, given the company he keeps. He is in his 40s and I fear he is becoming too old to change.

I am in a position to help financially, but do not want to be enabling him. I am seriously considering allowing him to be jailed for non-payment, as I wonder whether this would give him a wake-up call  or would that create an insurmountable barrier?

I am all he has in terms of family  there is no contact with his father, who abandoned us when he was born. My husband has never accepted him as a son, as he has his own children who have all done well.

I wonder if counselling or tough love would help, but I am retired and getting older with less energy to devote to him. I would really appreciate some advice.

DEIRDRE

Recently, Ive received a number of letters from mothers having big problems with their adult sons. Its a telling reminder of just how hard and long a sentence motherhood is, with no parole available.

That may sound bleak, but any mother whos known tough times with one (or more) offspring will know exactly what I mean. Sometimes, you can look back on all the stress with disbelief; nevertheless (as I know well) you bear the scars.

In the past, Ive often counselled tough love  since it can be useful. Most parents will agree there should be a limit to how long you go on bailing out an irresponsible adult child. But although thats all too easy to say or write, the reality is more complex.

When we read of parents who shield their children from the police, we may disapprove morally, but would we do the same, in extreme circumstances? I tend to think: There but for the grace of God go I.

This is a sad story  mainly because you clearly married at the very time when you son was most vulnerable and needed maximum support.

You admit a painful truth: My husband has never really accepted him as a son, as he has his own children who have all done well.

Im not making excuses, just asking you to acknowledge it must have dealt a blow to his self-esteem when his mother was distracted by a wonderful new relationship with a man who did not care about him. He sought companionship elsewhere  and so (you think) the rot set in. Surely these are mitigating circumstances?

To allow him to go to jail would be a dramatic step, although I dont quite see how or why such a decision is yours.

Youre talking about money, of course, and you cant be expected to go on bailing him out financially. On the other hand, if you do, surely you can attach conditions.

Im sure you must have talked this through, suggested counselling and so on. The man clearly needs help, but you cannot be the person to give it. And as you imply, at a certain age you just become tired of all the problems.

Why should you permit this man in his 40s to exhaust you and continue to annoy (Im assuming) your husband? Its a painful question  one answer being: Because Im his mother.

Which takes us full circle, doesnt it? I think that would be my own response. But I wish somebody you know well could intervene. Does your son have a friend you approve of? Is there a member of the family who could help? What is the attitude of his half-siblings?

No matter how much of a wastrel he is, nevertheless he is enmeshed in all your lives, and thats why a jail term would impact on you, too.

So please dont accept that it is too late for him to change, but make one last effort to persuade him to get help, by any means.

AND FINALLY... The gifts that keep on giving

Its only three weeks since we took down the Christmas cards with the rest of the decorations  and I piled them up to deal with. How?

Channelling my thrifty Fifties childhood, I turn the prettiest ones into postcards and make gift tags from the rest. Yes, Im the kind of geek who sits watching TV with a mountain of cards and a pair of scissors. But last year I didnt get round to it  meaning this time there were two years worth to go through.

Some people have stopped sending Christmas cards, as a waste of time and money. Others send e-cards or emails telling you theyve donated to charity. Which is all very useful and so on  but deprives friends of your greetings. So what if somebody writes: We really must get together this year  and then you dont? The fact that somebody thought about me is infinitely precious.

Anyway, carefully going through the 2015 cards was a delight because of all the marvellous messages I found. The latest ones too ... but the previous year was extra special because my little dog had died and people were so kind.

Sometimes in the Christmas rush you dont take in what people have written  all the more reason to keep cards for a while, then read them all again.

Ill pick just one to share. To my astonishment this came from the son of a colleague, whom I met only once when he was a little boy.

Now a teenager, he wrote these lovely words: I just wanted to say that Im so sorry to hear about Bonnie and I still remember how much I loved your stories about her. I hope you have a very good Christmas and even though you wont see her, shell be with you.

There were many other beautiful messages to make me smile  but that one from 14-year-old Luke is intact in my box of Bonnie keepsakes.

See what I mean? Christmas cards are much more than bits of cardboard; they are gifts that keep giving  if you let them.

Bel answers readers questions on emotional and relationship problems each week. Write to Bel Mooney, Daily Mail, 2 Derry Street, London W8 5TT, or e-mail bel.mooney@dailymail.co.uk. A pseudonym will be used if you wish. Bel reads all letters but regrets she cannot enter into personal correspondence.
Rarely have I encountered a woman so utterly elegant as Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis.

She was Americas First Lady  and still plain Jackie Kennedy  when I was invited to an informal supper with Jackie and her husband at the White House.

I was working in New York as a fashion model, and was married to my first husband Robin Douglas-Home, whose Uncle Alec became Britains Prime Minister soon afterwards.

President Donald Trump with the First Lady, Melania Trump, at his Inauguration Day on January 20

Former First Lady Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy sits on a sofa with two young girls during a charity event for the Heart Fund at the White House, Washington, D.C

Britains Ambassador to the U.S., David Ormsby-Gore, was a family friend and the reason why, aged 22, I found myself sitting next to President John F. Kennedy eating a fried chicken dinner.

It was a Sunday night in October 1962 and  although I had no idea at the time  the eve of the Cuban Missile Crisis, one of the major Cold War confrontations.

Yet the President acted as if he hadnt a care in the world.

Jackie's iconic style has influenced many over the years and continues to. Amal Clooney (right) has taken inspiration from her

Victoria Beckham is seen channeling Jackie (left) while on holiday in the south of France (right)

We were a small, intimate party, and as JFK sat down next to me I remember Jackies slight froideur; perhaps because her flirtatious husband had a way of making a girl feel she was the most important person in the world.

Tactile, warm and fascinating, he even commented on the fact Id been on the cover of American Vogue for two months in a row.

For that casual supper I recall wearing a Mary Quant red felt dress with a pinafore top and trapeze skirt, and feeling very flattered that the most important man in the world should be focusing his magnetic gaze on me.

Pippa Middleton (right) wears a stunning colour-block dress, similar to one worn by Jackie (left)

When JLo wore this asymmetric aquamarine dress, complete with bejeweled leaves, it was very similar to a dress worn by Jackie when she met with Cambodian Prince Sihanouk

Jackie, meanwhile, left me feeling positively overawed  even though Id been mingling with some of the worlds most fashionable women, at Vogue and the Eileen Ford modelling agency.

Dressed in a tan shift with a cardigan, Jackie looked, as always, impeccable. Whatever the occasion, she knew instinctively what to wear. Her taste was unerring; her judgment, infallible. In fact she exuded effortless style.

Even today, two decades after her death, Jackie Kennedy Onassis remains a timeless fashion icon. From catwalk to High Street, her influence is ubiquitous.

Now, with the release of Jackie, an Oscar-tipped film biography, with Natalie Portman in the title role, we can expect to see an explosion of lookalike outfits. Tailored workwear, jackets cut flatteringly above the waist, skirt-suits and neat little hats will doubtless become de rigueur.

Coleen Rooney channeled Jackie's style when she attended the Beckham's pre World Cup party in 2006

Aside from that White House supper, I met Jackie once in New York as well. She was slender, exquisitely tailored and stylishly understated.

I recall the elan with which she wore those plain, boxy jackets over neat, sleeveless dresses. In summer she looked sublimely chic in pastel sleeveless shifts.

But perhaps her greatest triumph was her ability to accessorise: an uncomplicated strapless evening gown adorned with a charming diamond brooch; a classic shirt teamed with pearls; a casual jersey and statement sunglasses. Jackies look was hallmarked by its simplicity: her triumph was to know exactly how much embellishment an outfit needed. Nothing was ever overdone. But while she has often been emulated, how many women can really pull off her trademark look?

In 2006, Teri Hatcher (right) wore a stunning pink fish tail gown, complete with long black gloves and a stunning necklace when she presented the Laureus awards

As this parade of recent celebrity doppelgangers shows, very few of them measure up to Jackie Kennedy Onassis. Fake tans clamour for attention with strident jewellery, fussy hairstyles, shimmering make-up and low-cut tops. There is just too much to distract the eye.

In contrast Jackie knew, intuitively, that less is more. She always wore the correct height of heel for the occasion, whatever it might have been. Neat summer shift frocks were teamed with pretty flat sandals, not the vertiginous heels favoured by todays imitators. Decorum was always Jackies byword. There was never an unseemly flash of thigh or too much decolletage on display.

If you could bottle that understated elegance, it would sell for outrageous sums. But  as the motley succession of modern celebrities shown here proves  you cant.

Italian overkill: Nancy DellOlios revealing top and clashing accessories (pictured right) yell: Look at me! while Jackies navy shirt and pearls (left) whisper: Class

Taylor Swift (left) wore a red strapless gown at the Country Music Awards in 2011, which was similar to a red strapless gown worn by Jackie

Miscalculation: A glimpse of black skirt dangling below the hemline of her cream coat, Carol Vorderman (right) misses out as a fashion icon while Jackies look (left) is fresh and feminine

With their too-bright clashing fabrics and too-high hems, many of her copycats are trying too hard, in my view, and falling short of her high standard.

I cant help feeling that theyve missed the point. The secret to Jackies success was in her acuity and restraint, rather than any particular cut or shape, lovely as they were.

Her refinement and sophistication were innate. And there is no way, as todays showy celebrities prove, to teach that.
The young rowan tree in Sarah Hendersons local park is already bursting with its signature red berries. Passers-by stop to admire its beauty, a vibrant splash of colour at this otherwise bleak time of year.

Some may notice the simple oak post by the tree in the Buckinghamshire park which bears the name Rowan Henderson. But few will understand the significance.

It is the only place on earth that records the name of the little girl Sarah and her husband Nick lost nearly two years ago.

Sarah Henderson and husband Nick lost their baby nearly two years ago

Rowan was born at 1.30am on April 3, 2015, at just 23 weeks and four days gestation.

British laws mean that neither the birth  technically a miscarriage  nor the death of those delivered at less than 24 weeks is recorded.

Rowan has no birth certificate. No death certificate. Without that simple carved post, this little girl disappears without a trace. Its something that Sarah, 35, a graphic designer from Milton Keynes, is determined to change.

People will see the tree in the park and not necessarily know the story, but they will know her name and thats special to me, says Sarah, who is married to Nick, 42, who works in PR.

Rowan was born on April 3, 2015, at just 23 weeks and four days gestation

Its important knowing she had her place in time, that there was some proof she existed on this planet. Somehow I feel more of a connection and a link to her there than at the spot where shes buried. Because here, people know my little girl existed. That she was loved, cared for and remembered.

Her words are particularly poignant, just days after the Mail published a haunting photo of another baby girl, Francesca Bradley-Curran, who against all odds, survived, despite being only five days older than Rowan at birth.

Two weeks ago, Sarah started a petition to change the law to bring the age of birth certification down to 20 weeks. Shes been astonished by the reaction. Since then, more than 307,000 people have signed it.

More than 250,000 miscarriages, almost 4,000 stillbirths and 4,000 neonatal deaths (before the baby reaches 28 days) occur in the UK every year.

The Mariposa Trust  known also as Saying Goodbye  is one of the UKs leading baby loss charities and reaches 50,000 grieving parents every week. Its website gets 650,000 hits a month.

British laws mean that neither the birth nor the death of those delivered at less than 24 weeks is recorded

Its a huge issue affecting so many people, says Sarah. Id spoken to friends whod suffered the loss of a baby and knew they felt it was important to have some kind of official acknowledgement.

I decided to start a petition. I had no idea where it would lead. I just knew I wanted Rowan acknowledged and that others felt the same. But I had no idea more than 300,000 people felt the same.

As a twin herself, Sarah wanted a sibling for their eldest daughter, who was then a year old. But after the pregnancy confirmed, Sarah started to feel instinctively, that something was wrong.

My previous pregnancy went smoothly so I had nothing to fear. But from the moment I did the test, something didnt feel right, she says. At the 12-week scan I was too terrified to even look at the screen, worried the baby wouldnt be alive. But it all seemed fine.

However, at the 20-week scan, Sarahs gnawing fear was realised.

Its a huge issue affecting so many people, says Sarah

The sonographer spent a long time looking at the heart and I asked three times whether it was a girl or a boy, but she wasnt saying anything. Eventually she told us one half of the babys heart seemed bigger than the other and she would book us in for a cardio scan.

She did all she could to reassure us so we werent overly worried but by the time I got home, Id already got a voicemail telling me the scan was booked for the next day. I knew then it was serious.

I remember sitting in the car, crying, and saying to Nick, I knew this would happen.

The following day, the couple were given devastating news. The baby, whom the sonographer had confirmed was a girl  had cardiomyopathy, a condition which affects the thickness of the heart muscles. They were told she would probably die before full gestation.

Two days earlier wed had a healthy baby, says Sarah. Now we were being told we wouldnt bring her home alive.

Two days earlier wed had a healthy baby, says Sarah. Now we were being told we wouldnt bring her home alive.'

Days later we went for another scan and already Rowans condition had deteriorated. I could already feel her inside me and every time I felt her kick it was wonderful but at the same time it broke me in half because I knew I couldnt save her. Id feel her move and Id be delighted saying There you are! then Id be in tears.

Tragically, within days of that scan, little Rowan began to show signs of heart failure. We couldnt stop it, says Sarah tearfully. Even if shed been born, her condition was so severe a transplant wasnt an option. We felt helpless.

We told our family what was happening. It was really important to me that we saw all the grandparents before Rowan died because  I know it sounds stupid  I wanted her to have heard their voices before she went. Friends and family were wonderful but I felt very alone because, though I knew people whod miscarried at earlier stages, I didnt know anyone whod been in my shoes.

Sarah was scanned regularly to monitor Rowans deterioration, and on the afternoon of April 2, 2015 she learned that her daughter had lost her fight for life.

I wanted the doctors to turn around and say, We got it wrong, its all fine but of course it wasnt. But when we got to the scan, we looked at the screen and shed gone. It was just . . . still.

I was totally numb. We were holding each other, silent, unable to comprehend that after weeks of knowing we would lose her, that she was actually now gone.

Heartbroken Sarah was induced immediately which meant she went straight into labour.

Im very glad that I went through that because its the last thing Rowan and I shared, she says. A birth at 23 weeks is just as painful as a full-term birth and it matched my emotional pain. I remember walking to the delivery suite and I had to stop because I was having a painful contraction.

Walking in the opposite direction was a man wheeling a mother whod just given birth and she was holding a new baby.

I remember she looked at me as if to say, Dont worry, its all fine, this is what you get at the end  but I thought: No, I dont get a baby at the end, at least not a live one.

After seven hours, Rowan was born weighing 1lb 5oz, tiny but perfectly formed. But just after the birth, Sarah made a decision she now regrets. I was frightened of looking at her, she says. Before the labour, Id Googled what she might look like because I didnt want to be frightened of my own child.

I wanted to be able to compose myself before I saw her. The doctors took her away, cleaned her up, took photographs and hand and footprints and brought her back to us but I realised there was nothing to be frightened of.

Seeing her for the first time, I couldnt believe she was there and she was so still. So tiny. You could see the veins in her hands through her skin and she had Nicks chin. A lot of people will say all premature babies look the same but they dont. Not to their mum and dad. She was perfect.

We spoke to her. We told her about her sister and how much she was loved, then wrote notes that she would be buried with.

I kept telling her I was sorry, that I couldnt protect her. Thats your job as a mother isnt it?

Seeing her for the first time, I couldnt believe she was there and she was so still,' said Sarah

The couple had been told that because Rowan was likely to die before 24 weeks, they would not be issued with a birth certificate.

I didnt understand the implications at the time because all my focus was on my baby, says Sarah.

About two months later we realised actually, theres nowhere

that says she even existed. Its not anywhere. If our grandchildrens grandchildren wanted to look back through our history, she would not be there.

But that doesnt mean we didnt love her. It didnt feel right. We wanted her birth to be acknowledged and for people to know she was wanted and cared for.

Sarah was aware others might feel the same. When the hospital offered to bury their daughter in a service with other children who hadnt survived 24 weeks, ten other babies were buried alongside her.

It was a comfort to me to know she is buried alongside other children, she says.

But there is no gravestone with her name on it. The coffins were already in the ground when the chaplain did a service. It still doesnt feel like weve done her justice, theres no right way to bury your baby.

Sarahs initial petition was to lobby the government to change the laws so babies born from 20 weeks  whether dead or alive  would have the same birth certificate as a baby born after the 24 week limit. She admits now that she was naive about the legislation surrounding the viability of babies as well as the abortion laws.

Id still be delighted for it to happen but as someone has pointed out, if it was brought down to 20 weeks, what happens to mothers who lose a baby at 19 weeks and five days?

Theyve still lost a baby. They are still grieving.

In a recent poll, we found 88 per cent of parents want an official document which recognises the baby they have lost.

The government encourages hospitals to create in-house certificates. It can be printed off in a back office but parents are saying this isnt good enough, says Zoe Clark-Coates, founder of The Mariposa Trust.

In a recent poll, we found 88 per cent of parents want an official document which recognises the baby they have lost.

Sarah is now working with the Maripose Trust on their campaign to establish a new certification that all parents can request after losing a baby at any point. It wouldnt be a birth certificate, but it would be nationally recognised and one that any woman who has a medically confirmed pregnancy could receive. It could also affect bereavement leave. At the moment, a woman who has a miscarriage is expected to simply get on with life and work afterwards. I was very fortunate that my employers gave me all the time I needed.

Some parents like to keep it very private, which is fine  and which is why the certification would be optional, says Sarah.

One thing I find very moving since starting the petition is that 307,000 people know my daughters name. Thats incredibly special. Even a birth certificate wouldnt have given me that.

n The Mariposa Trust offers support For anyone who has experienced baby loss at any stage. Visit sayinggoodbye.org or facebook.com/saying goodbyeUK

Sarahs petition is at: www.change.org/u/58646006
Crown Princess Mary of Denmark has proved yet again she can't go wrong when it comes to style, as she attended events in Copenhagen while dressed warmly for the wintery weather.

Princess Mary and Prince Frederik visited Tante Olga Kindergarten on Wednesday with President Guni Thorlacius Johannesson of Iceland and First Lady Eliza Reid as part of their tour of Denmark, reported Yahoo 7.

The group were at the kindergarten to see how students are using materials from the Mary Foundation, which was set up help fight bullying and well-being, domestic violence and loneliness.

Scroll down for video

Crown Princess Mary (right) visited Tante Olga Kindergarten in Copenhagen on Wednesday with Prince Frederik (left) and the Icelandic president and First Lady on their tour of Denmark

The Princess was elegantly dressed in a black and navy tartan dress, just visible under a long charcoal blue coat, with matching maroon accessories. She accepted flowers as she chatted to students outside

The Danish royals (pictured) visited the kindergarten to see how the students were using materials provided from The Mary Foundation, a charity set up by the Crown Princess (right)

The Princess was dressed in a navy and blue tartan dress, just visible underneath a smart charcoal blue coat.

She accessorised her winter look with maroon leather gloves, pointed suede maroon pumps with a matching maroon clutch bag tucked under her arm.

She wore her long brown hair loose, with small diamond earrings.

As the Crown Princess chatted to students outside, who were rugged up in coats and beanies against the cold, she accepted small bunches of colourful flowers.

Princess Mary accessoried her winter outfit with simple flower-shaped diamond earrings and wore her long brown hair loose on her shoulders

That same day the group visited Copenhagen Cooking School and listened to a presentation from various chefs. Pictured left is Princess Mary, centre left President Guni Thorlacius Johannesson of Iceland, centre right First Lady Eliza Reid and right, Prince Frederik

Princess Mary was seen tasting a variety of canapes (left) and also sample a glass of champagne at the cooking school (right)

That same day Princess Mary and Prince Frederik were also seen with the Icelandic royals at the Copenhagen Hospitality School for a cooking workshop.

The royal couples enjoyed a presentation from the cooking school, before sampling a range of canapes and sipping from glasses of champagne.

On Friday, Crown Princess Mary also made an appearance at the Women's Board Award presentation.

The Danish couple smiling and laughing while toasting glasses of champagne with President Guni Thorlacius Johannesson of Iceland (centre)

The group helped themselves to an array of delicious canapes prepared by the cooking school for their visit

Dressed in a printed silk dress with tailored back vest over the top, the Princess wore black stockings, black heels and wore drop pear earrings against her loose hair.

She spoke about the need for female role models in business and, at referenced that fact that at an executive level, how people are judged is influenced by that person's gender.

Princess Mary later presented the Women's Board Award to Pernille Erenberg, Managing Director for the telecommunication company TDC.

On Friday Princess Mary spoke about women in business at the the Women's Board Award, dressed in a printed silk dress with a tailored cut-out black blazer and drop pearl earrings
One of the scariest experiences I ever had as a doctor was a few years ago while working a night-shift in A&E.

In the course of my career, Ive been sworn at, slapped, punched, threatened, spat at, you name it  but this was totally different.

I was on duty in a busy inner city hospital casualty department. It was a tiny team  just me and a nurse. The usual nurse was off ill, so an agency had supplied a replacement.

As soon as I introduced myself, I realised that her spoken English was very poor. She was from Portugal and lived there most of the time, coming to the UK to do stints as an agency nurse.

While it is quite right that foreign nurses should work in the NHS, it is vital that they should conform to the same high standards, writes DR MAX PEMBERTON

After a brief, hesitant discussion, I became aware that she didnt believe in mental illness  the area of medicine with which we were dealing that night.

She described people who suffered from mental illness as being merely weak in the head, and said that they should be told to pray. Aghast, I presumed her real view had been lost in translation.

But then I spotted her giving a patient medication to sedate him, although it hadnt been prescribed. Worse still, it was in fact potentially dangerous considering how unwell the patient was.

The Mails revelations this week that more than 1,000 registered and licensed doctors have criminal convictions left me flabbergasted. I sometimes wonder what has become of my profession. The cases include cardiologist Dr Steven Burn, who was found to have 65 child abuse pictures on his work computer. Also, trainee anaesthetist Rupert Pemsel was allowed to continue working as a doctor despite having had sex with a prostitute while on duty in a maternity hospital. Im horrified that they are still allowed contact with patients. It makes me wonder what exactly a doctor has to do to be banned from practising. Advertisement

When I reprimanded her, she shrugged. (To be honest, Im not sure she understood me.)

Problems continued when the family of another patient, a female, complained that the Portuguese nurse couldnt understand them and they didnt want their relative to continue under her care.

She then discharged a patient who was suicidal, and I had to call the police to find him and return him to the hospital.

Finally, the nurse went missing for several hours when she was supposed to be monitoring a disturbed patient with dementia. I found her asleep in the office. By this stage, I was so worried about her interacting further with patients that I told her to stay there while I made the rounds alone.

The following morning, I reported what had happened to our manager, who duly informed the agency and told them we wouldnt have the nurse back.

Of course, this woman may have been a one-off bad apple and a liability, even if her English had been impeccable. But I cant be certain that the language barrier wasnt the problem.

Either way, the truth is that the NHS hiring system is unable to do proper checks to ensure that health staff who come from fellow EU countries are capable of doing the job. There is no requirement for language tests, or even a test of basic medical competency.

I am the first to accept that the vast majority of nurses and doctors from EU countries who work in the NHS are highly competent and skilled. Their ability to speak English as a second language puts my own schoolboy efforts with French and Spanish to shame.

Nevertheless, it is not right that EU employment laws mean we cannot make checks on foreign staff before they are hired.

Under current rules, regulators must register all EU nurses as safe without carrying out any checks  even if they have not practised for decades.

The rules are that only nurses from non-EU countries may be subjected to competency tests.

This week, the Nursing and Midwifery Council called for loopholes that prevent nurses from European Union countries being tested to be closed. In a damning report to the Commons Health Committee, the Nursing and Midwifery Council warned that the current situation is unsafe.

This ludicrous state of affairs demonstrates how EU rules risk the welfare of the sick.

My hope is that Brexit will result in sensible changes and improvements to the standards in nursing care. Hopefully, such changes will include more stringent checks on abilities of staff from EU countries.

Figures show that in 2015/2016, nearly 10,000 nurses and midwives from EU countries registered to work in Britain. In total, about 40,000 nurses working in the UK trained elsewhere in Europe.

This is a vital issue because poor nursing care affects the most vulnerable: the elderly, the disabled and those with mental illness.

To highlight this basic truism is not xenophobic. The issue is about providing best patient-care.

And the unarguable fact is that there is a worrying difference between the standards we demand from British-trained nurses, compared with those who come from EU countries.

While it is quite right that foreign nurses should work in the NHS, it is vital that they should conform to the same high standards.

As well as new agreements on trade, environmental regulation, border controls etc, Brexit also offers the ideal opportunity to reinforce proper patient-care standards in our Health Service.

Is your cat affecting your mental health?

I dont mean their incessant yowling or the way their claws damage your furniture. What Im talking about is how cats can carry a parasite called toxoplasma gondii that may affect how you behave and could even trigger depression.

A study has found an association between the infection and the extreme premenstrual tension experienced by some women.

The idea that infections can alter our mind may sound like something out of science fiction, but there are instances where we know this happens.

The bacteria Treponema pallidum  which is responsible for the sexually transmitted disease syphilis  can, if left untreated, cause neurosyphilis, symptoms of which include depression and psychosis. It can also affect memory.

I once saw a patient who had been wrongly diagnosed with Alzheimers when his memory problems and confusion were down to a syphilis infection that he probably contracted while in the Navy many decades previously.

Theres another condition known as PANDAS (paediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal infections) which affects children. It is caused by a bacteria which can trigger a reaction that results in either Obsessive Compulsive Disorder or Tourettes syndrome  a psychiatric condition where the sufferer has uncontrollable tics or swears inappropriately.

While its perfectly possible that parasites in cats can affect human behaviour, I fear the dangers are exaggerated. It might be easy to blame some microscopic bug  indeed, some researchers claim toxoplasma gondii can cause road rage  but the truth is that we humans have the power to moderate our behaviour.

So dont blame the cat when you feel moody. Thats just a cop-out.

The young minds warped by porn

Ministers are considering whether sex education should be made compulsory in schools in a bid to tackle the hateful, pernicious effects that pornography is having on some youngsters.

As a general rule, Im very wary of making anything compulsory, especially when it involves parenting.

But as a doctor, Ive seen the scale of the problem deriving from pornography and I now concede that the state should step in.

Its very hard for generations who grew up before the age of the internet to comprehend the impact it can have on a young persons understanding of sex. I have seen countless teenagers in my clinic who think, for example, that pubic hair is dirty and wrong because in the pornograghy theyve seen, people shave themselves.

Also, the images they are exposed to are often violent and extreme, with the result that many children now consider such depravity as normal sexual behaviour.

As a society we need to respond to this normalisation of pornography. We need to ensure that every child is taught about consent, about sex in the context of loving, committed relationships and about the realities of human biology.

It makes me uncomfortable that this burden has to fall to schools, but the alternative is that children will get their sex education solely through perverted clips shared on their mobiles. We owe it to our young people to intervene.

Don't force old into care

Thousands of elderly people face being moved against their will into residential care homes because it would be cheaper for local authorities than providing them with care at home.

What a disgrace.

Certainly, some people benefit from being in care homes  but to enforce this on pensioners is inhuman.

There has been extensive research into the effects of older people being dumped in care homes, and it shows this can result in a rapid deterioration of their health and is associated with increased confusion and disability.

The mind has a powerful attachment to routine and familiar surroundings. It is amazing how well some people can cope, even in the grips of dementia, if they can be cared for at home.

Institutionalising older people against their wishes is shamefully immoral.
An app that can warn you up to half a day in advance that youre going to fall ill is being developed by scientists.

It uses information from wearable health trackers which monitor heart rate and body temperature via the likes of an Apple Watch, to tell individuals they are about to suffer an illness such as the flu.

The app uses information from a smartwatch to determine whether individuals are about to suffer from an illness, such as the flu

A team at Californias Stanford is working on the app, after testing the theory on 43 volunteers who wore a smartwatch for up to 11 months.

Project leader Professor Michael Snyder said: We discovered that just as people are starting to get sick, their heart rate and skin temperature go up, and their blood oxygen level goes down.

Our app gives you a first alert that something is not quite right  because these physiological changes happen before you even notice you are ill. Resting heart rate went up by five to ten per cent, compared with the individuals normal level, he said, while they also experienced more occasions when it rose high.

The teams research, published in the journal PLOS Biology, concluded that if a persons heartbeat was raised for two hours or more, that was a good signal youre not quite right.

Prof Snyder, a leading geneticist, said it gave up to half a days notice of imminent illness. He believes it would help normally healthy people plan better in the event of coming down with flu, and so recover quicker.

You might look at your monitor, and itll say I think you are coming down with something  perhaps you shouldnt go out dancing tonight. Stay at home and have chicken soup instead, he said.

Professor Michael Snyder, a leading geneticist, said the app would give up to half a days notice of imminent illness, which would help normally healthy people plan better in the event of coming down with flu

But the bigger benefit could come in helping track the health of the elderly, or those with chronic health problems such as diabetes  acting as an early warning system for the individual themselves, loved ones, or medics.

Id like my mum to have one, so I could keep tabs on her health from 3,000 miles away, said Prof Snyder.

He came up with the idea while testing whether commercially available wearable trackers did indeed provide reliable health data  and discovered that he was able to self-diagnose that he had picked up a serious viral infection.

The Stanford study spotted eight out of eight infections suffered by the volunteers over its course, although Prof Snyder conceded bigger trials were needed.

He said it would be a couple of years before any app was on the market, because he was seeking gold standard approval for it to be used as a medical device.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 12

Ive been booked to appear on next weeks Question Time, so tuned in tonight to see if host David Dimbleby tried anything tricksy when he announced my forthcoming appearance. Next week he said, Our panel will include the broadcaster Piers Morgan. Dimbleby then deliberately paused and pursed his lips like hed sucked a particularly sharp lemon, which of course encouraged the audience to fill the air with pantomime villain boos. I didnt ask for that! he smirked, delightedly, knowing thats exactly what he was asking for.

MONDAY, JANUARY 16

The most credible compliments are always those wrenched from long-time critics. Piers Morgans an oaf, a tool, a buffoon, an out-of-control trunk bucket, a human wrecking ball, a walnutbrained egomaniac, the punchline to a brilliant joke hell never get, wrote The Suns TV pundit Ally Ross today. Hes a smirk jerk, clam jam, and a yawning great t**topotomus with a surprisingly small mouth but enormous balding head. Then it came: Piers is also  and I say this through heavily gritted teeth  one of the best things to ever happen to Britains breakfast television. This is what we call in the newspaper trade a drop intro.

You chucked me under a massive bus last week! I remonstrated as David Dimbleby arrived in the green room. I most certainly did not, he retorted. I just let the words Piers Morgan hang in the air and the audience reacted accordingly

TUESDAY, JANUARY 17

In my New Year predictions for 2017, I declared: On the 50th anniversary of the worlds first heart transplant, Lord Sugar announces he has applied to have one. The applications rejected because doctors find no evidence of any existing heart in his body. Today, it emerged Sugars just had emergency heart surgery to fix a narrowed artery with the insertion of a stent. The old growlers tried all manner of ruses to prove my predictions wrong over the years, but this is ridiculous.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 19

To Question Time in Peterborough. You chucked me under a massive bus last week! I remonstrated as David Dimbleby arrived in the green room. I most certainly did not, he retorted. I just let the words Piers Morgan hang in the air and the audience reacted accordingly

The panel, which this week included the Shadow Foreign Secretary, Emily Thornberry, and the Transport Secretary, Chris Grayling, is always given a dummy question to warm everyone up before the real programme starts.

I was mindful of the advice Roy Hattersley once gave me: Make them laugh during the fake question and theyll be on your side the whole programme.

Tonight it was whether cannabis should be legalised.

Ever had a spliff, David? I asked the host, as the audience roared. No! he exclaimed indignantly, and somewhat implausibly as he once campaigned in the Sixties to decriminalise the drug.

Not even a cheeky one where you didnt inhale? NO!

It was a fun, feisty show notable for the fact I never once got booed, even when I defended Donald Trump.

In fact, highly unusually, I got loudly applauded for virtually everything I said.

Question Time viewers in shock as they AGREE with Piers Morgan! screamed one headline afterwards. At the post-show dinner, we discussed the fact this was my 21st appearance.

Do I get a carriage clock or something, David? I asked. No, he replied. We save those for our longest-running guests. I cant be far off, surely?

A producer pulled out a chart that revealed Im now the 31st most regular living panellist, a list led by Shirley Williams (56) and Ken Clarke (55). But, crucially, Im the third most regular non-politician living panellist after Melanie Phillips (25) and Peter Hitchens (23).

We actually had one suggested question from an audience member tonight asking if you were going to replace me as host, said Dimbleby. I said it was pointless debating it because there was no way youd take such a massive pay cut Have you really never had a spliff? I asked. I dont recognise the term, he replied.

Then he broke into a giant grin: In my day they were called joints.

I sat next to Emily and teased her about Labours beleaguered leader, Calamity Corbyn.

The way your party memberships now set up, he could be there for another 1,000 years. You guys might be doomed to a millennium of failure.

I have one word for you, Piers, she smiled, as the table fell silent. B*******! At 10.30pm, everyone suddenly left.

Theres a problem with the trains, explained a QT assistant. All eyes turned to Grayling. Hes going by car explained his special adviser.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 20

Last summer, Jennifer Aniston wrote a blog moaning about how awful it is that everyone objectifies her body all the time, and how harmful this is to women generally.

I responded by pointing out this was a bit rich given the vast number of heavily airbrushed, semi-naked magazine covers Ms Aniston has posed for over the years.

The least stars like Jennifer can do in return for the massive financial and career boost these fake covers bring them, I wrote, is to stop pretending its all everyone elses fault that impressionable young girls struggle with their own beauty and body images.

Now, in an interview for Variety, she says she was happy the furore made a little bit of difference.

Its definitely in peoples consciousness a lot more, she opined. Then she added: But youre always going to have the Piers Morgans of the world contradicting something that comes from the heart and saying, Youre a hypocrite.

Well, yes, Jen, you are  if youre a hypocrite.
With just two weeks to go before filming began on Ridley Scotts epic Gladiator, it was clear that something was badly wrong. The script was unravelling and unrest among the cast and crew was building to crisis point. Writer William Nicholson was summoned to Surreys Shepperton studios to rewrite key scenes that had to be shot within two days, leaving the films famously short-fused leading man Russell Crowe ready to blow his top.

When director Ridley Scott finally asked his restless star to hit his marks, Crowe did so reluctantly, but he was brilliant, says Nicholson, only for Crowe to remark of his fresh dialogue: Your lines are garbage, but Im the greatest actor in the world and I can make even garbage sound good.

Gladiator star Russell Crowe told writer William Nicholson: Your lines are garbage, but Im the greatest actor in the world and I can make even garbage sound good.

And the funny thing is that its true, says Nicholson. OK, the lines werent garbage and he was a bit aggressive, but he is a great actor, so his occasional fits of arrogance didnt bother me at all.

Having worked in Hollywood for over 20 years, British writer Nicholson, 69, has developed a skin thick enough to withstand even the barbs of Russell Crowe.

Twice nominated for an Oscar (for Gladiator and for the Anthony Hopkins film Shadowlands), Nicholson has also written celebrated screenplays including Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom starring Idris Elba, Elizabeth: The Golden Age with Cate Blanchett and Les Miserables starring Hugh Jackman and Nicholsons old pal, Crowe.

He has also penned acclaimed novels for children and adults, the latest of which is Adventures In Modern Marriage, which revisits the characters from his 2009 book, The Secret Intensity Of Everyday Life.

Whereas with novels I can do whatever I want, in the film world, Im always forced out of my comfort zone. If you cant take criticism, all I can say is dont become a screenwriter, says Nicholson, who admits that while his time on Gladiator was a terrific experience, it was occasionally fraught.

Nicholson, 69, has worked in Hollywood for over 20 years

The film was in a lot of trouble when I got there and everything I did was helping, so I was the good guy, he says. But Russell was under enormous stress and he knew that the film was all on his shoulders [as Maximus], so he really felt the pressure.

Russell responds to pressure by being strong and aggressive and so he was quite resistant to doing new scenes. But then he would say: OK, lets give it a go and of course it worked. He was very demanding but professional.

The biggest problem on set, says Nicholson, was with Oliver Reed, who played Maximuss mentor, Proximo. He took the job on the understanding that he wouldnt drink and he abided by that until three days before the end of the shoot and that finally did for him, says Nicholson. Id already gone home when I got a phone call saying: Oliver has died and we havent shot the ending yet  fly back and sort it out. So I had to fly back to Malta and we redid the ending.

Gladiator won five Oscars, with Nicholson being credited with transforming the movie from a one-note revenge tale to one that was a success with women, men, boys and girls. Its a story about a very strong guy who can kill people but its also about somebody who loves very deeply. And thats not Russell Crowe, thats me. I invented all of that, but do women chase me around supermarkets, inviting me back to their apartments like they do with him? he laughs. No they dont!

Beautiful homes in Londons Fitzrovia, where we meet, and another near Lewes in Sussex that he shares with his wife, are testimony to Nicholsons position as one of Hollywoods most successful scriptwriters. Having a gilded CV, which includes an OBE for services to drama and literature, has given him the luxury of being able to turn down work, including the film version of Philip Pullmans The Golden Compass, as well as Hunger Games 2 (I just didnt think it was a very good book).

Part of his success is based on his reputation for mining the emotional truth from the toughest of characters  imbuing Crowes Maximus with a gravitas he was previously lacking  and he admits to being obsessed with relationships. With sex too, ever since I was young and thought no girl would ever come near me. Ive always been very interested in sex, he reveals, but a lot of men are and its hard to communicate to women just how much.

Certainly sex is at the heart of his new novel Adventures In Modern Marriage: I used to think there was a huge difference between men and womens sexuality, but I feel there isnt as much difference as we think. Women can pursue the excitement of the sexual encounter for itself without expecting it to turn into a proper relationship, but they also want proper relationships. But even men who screw around want relationships, too. As humans, we want everything and it just doesnt work.

His novels never shy away from describing intimate sexual encounters, although four years ago he was nominated for the Literary Reviews Bad Sex in Fiction Award for his novel, Motherland.

I minded tremendously, he admits. But it did enable me to attack the award itself. The organisers claim they just want to encourage good writing but in that case, have a Good Sex in Fiction Award, too. I think its just a publicity stunt for them, which is sad because the award has had a chilling effect on some writers willingness to write about sex.

Nicholson has his own theories about the reasons for his emotional candour, linked to his childhood shuttling between Seaford on the English south coast and Nigeria, where his father, a doctor, was working to eradicate leprosy. From the age of 11 he attended Catholic boarding school in England and if you come out of an all-male boarding school run by Benedictine monks with no access to girls, he says, its like trying to climb Everest with one leg. So I thought: all right, Im going to set out to find what women really want.

His first love affair at university ended painfully (I was so possessive and needy that she had to detach herself from me) and he displays a disarming honesty about his romantic failures (I got very keen on an American actress I dated in the Eighties, but I really made a fool of myself and it took me a while for the penny to drop).

In the face of Hollywoods demands, his family has helped keep him grounded. The film industry criticisms are very sharp and theyre always going through my scripts saying I dont believe a word of this scene or Im bored by this character, and there have been times when Ive been sacked and not even told. I used to get very annoyed about it but after a while I realised its just how the business works because of the amount of money involved. Theyre terrified of failure. Everyone moves forward, no one looks back.

Nicholson has also written celebrated screenplays including Elizabeth: The Golden Age with Cate Blanchett

Occasionally, though, Hollywood can surprise him. I wrote the screenplay for the film First Knight and one of the stars, Sean Connery, said: Im not sure we need all these lines. So he read his part and I read all the others and whenever it was his turn, he replaced his line with a Hmmm or an Uh-huh and it worked perfectly. Youd think hed have asked for more lines, but he cut everything out because he was only interested in making the scene better.

Nicholsons next film, Breathe, starring Andrew Garfield and Claire Foy, is due for release later this year. I used to believe actors were just puppets for my scripts and Id think: Dont ask me what it means  just speak the bloody lines! he laughs. But the more Ive watched the great actors, Ive seen how they can transform lines into something really special.

Russell Crowe, it seems, may have been on to something after all

Adventures In Modern Marriage by William Nicholson is published by Quercus, 19.99
Hacksaw Ridge Cert: 15 2hrs 19mins

Rating:

Everyone knows that Hollywood loves a comeback. Even so, the rehabilitation of Mel Gibson is astonishing.

Ten years ago, after being arrested for drunk-driving and launching into the sort of anti-Semitic rant that made headlines the world over, his career seemed over.

But Gibson played the long game. He grovelled his apologies in public, confronted his alcoholism and embarked on a programme of rehabilitation. And slowly, very slowly, he is clawing his way back.

Remarkably for someone who hasnt directed a film for more than a decade, Mel Gibson's Hacksaw Ridge is very good indeed and Andrew Garfield (above) is superb as Desmond Doss

Last year the now 61-year-old former Lethal Weapon star showed what a good actor he still is with a wonderfully grizzled performance in the drugs thriller Blood Father.

This year, however, its all about directing, with the man who once made Braveheart and Apocalypto returning with the World War II epic Hacksaw Ridge.

Remarkably for someone who hasnt directed a film for more than a decade, its very good indeed, fully deserving of the six Oscar nominations it received last week  including a slightly unexpected but no doubt very welcome Best Director nod for Gibson himself  and standing up to comparison with Steven Spielbergs Saving Private Ryan, Clint Eastwoods Letters From Iwo Jima and even Michael Ciminos The Deer Hunter.

At its heart is a superb performance from Andrew Garfield, who  in what is a true story  plays Desmond Doss, a young man from the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia whose alcoholic father (Hugo Weaving) has never been able to shake off the horror of what he saw during the World War I.

Nevertheless, Desmond is keen to do his patriotic duty and sign up. The only complication is that a childhood fight with his brother and a Christian faith have left him quietly opposed to the use of violence and firearms. The sixth commandment  Thou shall not kill  weighs particularly heavily.

Based on a true story, Doss was a young man from Virginia who left his fiancee (Dorothy, played by Teresa Palmer, above) to enlist in WWII despite being opposed to the use of violence

So while Doss is keen to enlist, he steadfastly refuses to pick up, let alone fire, his rifle. Were pretty sure the US Army is not going to like that and soon Doss, after enduring bullying, beatings and countless humiliations for his beliefs, is facing a court martial.

But when all seems lost, his father intervenes  calling in high-standing favours and delivering the most powerful of speeches  and swings the day.

The good news is that Doss can go to war as a non-combatant medical orderly; the bad news is that his unit are being dispatched to Okinawa, the Japanese island where the fighting was so fierce it would eventually persuade the Americans that the only way to defeat the Japanese was to drop atom bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

But first the Americans had to take Okinawa, where, as Doss and the rest of the 77th Infantry Division arrive, the Japanese are well and truly dug in on the plateau nicknamed Hacksaw Ridge. The devastating second act of Gibsons film is about to begin.

The battle scenes are extraordinary  like the first 20 minutes of Saving Private Ryan but doubly so; maybe even quadruply so.

The fighting is chaotic and merciless, where the life of a young man who has trained for months and travelled thousands of miles to fight can be extinguished in a split-second by the opening salvo of machine-gun fire.

The battle sequences, of which there are several, are devastatingly powerful.

Doss and his unit are dispatched to the Japanese island of Okinawa and the battle sequences, of which there are several, are devastatingly powerful

Slowly it becomes clear that many of the men who have been gunned down are badly wounded rather than dead and in need of medical attention. Dosss moment has arrived.

A strong undercurrent of religious faith is fundamental to the story (Doss is a Seventh Day Adventist) but isnt going to be to everybodys taste, with Doss uttering a fervent prayer  one more, Lord help me get one more  between each rescue. But his bravery is astonishing, his heroism undeniable.

Garfield, whose performance was rewarded with an Oscar nomination, is quietly superb, but Gibson draws some wonderful performances from his supporting cast too.

Vince Vaughn has probably never been better than as the platoon sergeant, while Adelaide-born Teresa Palmer is quietly enchanting as Dorothy, the pretty nurse Doss becomes engaged to before joining up.

But Palmer and Weaving are far from Australias only contribution, which, given that Gibson grew up and trained as an actor in New South Wales, is not perhaps totally surprisingly.

It provides convincing locations; Sam Worthington delivers a nice performance as Captain Glover; and former Home And Away star Luke Bracey impresses as Smitty, the first but certainly not the last US soldier to admit that theyd got Doss badly wrong.

Its a cracking story and impressively executed by a director clearly going out of his way to show he has lost none of his passion for film-making and for action in particular.

Theres an old Hollywood cliche about just being nominated for an Oscar being as good as a win, but for Gibson, after all hes been through, its true. Against all odds, Mel is back in town.

SECOND SCREEN

T2 Trainspotting (18)

Rating:

Denial (12A)

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Sing (U)

Rating:

Christine (15)

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Choose life: choose Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and hope that someone, somewhere cares. Rentons brilliant reprise of one of the best-known intros in film history is one of the bittersweet delights of T2 Trainspotting, which isnt as stomach-churning as the 1996 original but makes up for it with lashings of Irn-Bru and midlife poignancy.

Twenty years have passed since Mark Renton (Ewan McGregor) made off with the 16,000 proceeds from the drug deal that he and his bungling Edinburgh mates had somehow set up.

Since then hes been living  apparently successfully  in Amsterdam, but those he left behind have not been so fortunate.

In T2, Mark Renton (Ewan McGregor) is forced back to Edinburgh twenty years later to find fortune has been less kind to his mates (including Jonny Lee Miller's Sick Boy, above)

Sick Boy (Jonny Lee Miller) now combines owning a rundown pub with a little gentle blackmail; Spud (Ewen Bremner) is still on the scag and failing as a father; and the terrifyingly violent Begbie (Robert Carlyle) is in jail. Again.

So when circumstances force Renton back to Edinburgh well, its a safe bet that no one is going to be pleased to see him.

Danny Boyle returns to direct and uses the same relentless mix of music, camerawork and editing to induce that familiar adrenaline-fuelled movie high.

Spud (Ewen Bremner) and the terrifyingly violent Begbie (Robert Carlyle, above) also feature in a sequel which lacks substance but is packed with affectionate references to the original

It only begins to flag as we enter the second hour, by when his by now middle-aged core audience might reasonably expect a little more substance.

It never really arrives, but the damage is modest to a sequel packed with affectionate references to the original.

I loved the joke about British Summer Time, the brave sequence set in a Unionist club, and the cameo from author Irvine Welsh.

Rachel Weisz (above) stars in Denial which revisits the 1996 court drama that saw Deborah Lipstadt sued by David Irving (Timothy Spall) after she accused him of denying the Holocaust

Denial spends its first 20 minutes labouring under a rather clunky, wordy screenplay and some under-par performances, as we revisit the 1996 High Court drama that saw American academic Deborah Lipstadt (Rachel Weisz) being sued for libel by the controversial historian David Irving (Timothy Spall) after she accused him of being a Holocaust denier.

But it completely changes gear after her legal team  led by her claret-swilling barrister Richard Rampton (Tom Wilkinson)  decides to visit Auschwitz and suddenly you realise whats at stake.

Helped by an all-star voice cast that includes Matthew McConaughey & Reese Witherspoon, Sing mixes a Zootropolis-style animal city with an Americas Got Talent singing competition

Helped by an all-star voice cast that includes Matthew McConaughey, Reese Witherspoon and Scarlett Johansson, Sing is a feature-length cartoon that combines a Zootropolis-style city of animals with an Americas Got Talent singing competition, as a koala (McConaughey) tries to save his decaying theatre.

Its over-long and flags when we need it to build to a climax but its also colourful, funny and tuneful, and sometimes thats good enough.

In Christine Rebecca Hall has the misfortune to be extremely good in a film that always feels somewhat exploitative and too miserable to be a rewarding watch

In Christine Rebecca Hall has the misfortune to be extremely good in a film that always feels somewhat exploitative and too miserable to be a rewarding watch.

She plays Christine Chubbuck, an intensely driven and already mentally fragile television reporter who, back in the 1970s, was driven to breaking point by her own perfectionism and the demands of the station where she worked. Mary Tyler Moore, alas, it is not.
As was expected, Shah Rukh Khan's Raees opened with bigger numbers than Hrithik Roshan's Kaabil.

Stats show Raees earned Rs 20.42 crore all over India on opening day. Kaabil managed Rs 10.43 crore.

The two superstars are likely to score hits with their Republic Day biggies but both know they would have done far better if they had a solo run.

A Forbes report states Raees is also doing better in key overseas markets such as the US, the UK and West Asia.

The trade estimates Raees, given its pre-release hype, could have easily scaled a new first-day record on Wednesday raking in around Rs 40 crore.

Kaabil would now struggle to be a mere hit. Sharing an opening date has meant both films lacked ample release space.

In the multiplexes, Raees managed around 60 per cent screens while Kaabil had to contend with 40 per cent of the total exhibition space it would have got if the film opened solo.

A Forbes report states Raees is also doing better in key overseas markets such as the US, the UK and West Asia.

In the US, for instance, SRK's latest grossed $347,000 (Rs 23620428) across 247 screens on day one, beating Kaabil's $81,700 (Rs 5561327) across 229 screens.

Kaabil was always meant to be about Hrithik Roshan, and the superstar has not disappointed his fans

Clearly, Hrithik's film has taken a bigger hit more because Shah Rukh is a bigger star worldwide.

The matter would not have mattered in the long run if Kaabil had better content (Bajirao Mastani overtook SRK's Dilwale after the two films clashed on Christmas 2015 simply because it was popularly accepted as a superior entertainer).

This time, though, early word-of-mouth as well as reviews seem to suggest that more people have loved Shah Rukh's film so far, and that the only saving grace about Kaabil is Hrithik's performance. That may not be enough.

Shah Rukh and Hrithik had clashed once ages ago. On Diwali 2000, SRK's Mohabbatein clashed with Hrithik's Mission Kashmir.

The equation was different then. Hrithik had just given Kaho Naa... Pyar Hai, a blockbuster, and was being hailed as the next big thing.

SRK's year till then - with Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani and Josh - had been lukewarm.

Yet Mohabbatein, grossing Rs 90 crore eventually, towered over Mission Kashmir, which managed just Rs 43 crore.

History, it seems, could repeat itself in SRK's favour.

What's hot

Big start

The film has opened big, surging ahead of Kaabil over the first two days.

Raees has been running to full houses all over through the extended weekend, and word of mouth is positive.

The songs have caught on, as well as dialogues, prompting the makers to launch a dialogues-only album.

The makers were unable to promote Mahira Khan, who debuts as SRK's heroine in Raees

Powerhouse acts

SRK plays a bootlegger gangster and his fiery avatar has caught the fancy of most fans.

His Miyan Bhai get-up, brooding look and caustic dialogues have raised anticipation.

There is talent powerhouse Nawazuddin Siddiqui, too. He plays a cop - an almost parallel lead to superstar Shah Rukh in the commercial drama.

Sunny shining

Nothing grabs the eyeballs during the promotional build-up of a film as Sunny Leone gyrating to the remixed tune of a yesteryear's hit.

Her Laila item number, remixing a cult song Feroze Khan picturised on Zeenat Aman in Qurbani, has become popular - thereby setting the right hype for the film.

What's not

Big clash

SRK has claimed it was unavoidable, but his fans as well as trade experts know if Raees did not release alongside a Hrithik Roshan biggie the film probably had enough fire power to create a few records.

The superstar may have to settle for half the lifetime's collection his film might have hauled if released solo.

Pak factor

The makers were unable to promote Mahira Khan, who debuts as SRK's heroine, fearing the Pakistani actress's involvement during promotions would jeopardise the film's release in the same way MNS tormented Karan Johar before Ae Dil Hai Mushkil.

SRK personally met MNS chief Raj Thackeray, thereby upsetting Shiv Sena honchos.

Delay blues

The release of Raees was postponed several times since its original intended opening date of Eid 2016.

While that has not affected quality, it is a known fact that when a big film gets pushed around it somehow tends to make the audience wary.

It also spells good news for piracy.

Kaabil

Although a standard story about love and revenge, Kaabil promises an unconventional treatment

What's hot

Unusual feel

Although a standard story about love and revenge, the film always promised unconventional treatment.

The basic idea seems influenced by the Korean flick Broken, but Sanjay Gupta has plotted a unique way of revenge for his blind hero.

In the film, the hero - a dubbing artist - uses his vocal talents to set up situations that ultimately spell doom for his enemies.

Hrithik's Act

The film was always meant to be about Hrithik Roshan, and the superstar has not disappointed his fans.

Despite the overall treatment being mediocre, the actor shines through as the one bright spot.

If Hrithik was looking for a sound impact to mark a return after the no-show of Mohenjo Daro last year, Kaabil seems adequate.

Retro Melody

One gets to hear Rajesh Roshan's tune rarely these days, only when the Roshans make a film.

The title song and the Laila remix have become popular mainly for their retro feel.

Good music in a Hrithik Roshan film is always a plus point. A still from Kaabil

Good music in a Hrithik Roshan film is always a plus point - given the actor's superb dancing skills.

What's not

Big clash

The clash of the two biggies has inevitably affected Kaabil more than Raees.

Shah Rukh's film towered over Hrithik's release even during the promotional phase, and post release the figures have only suggested that Raees is fated to be a bigger hit, banking on SRK's star power and more aggressive wordof- mouth vibes among the buffs.

Lukewarm effect

Despite an unusual theme and Hrithik's dramatic act, the overall impact has been disappointing.

The script makes too many compromises to accommodate masala, thereby failing to strike a hardhitting impact.

Hrithik surely deserved a more engaging screenplay, given the fact that he has a lot at stake with this film.

Second choice

Trade patterns show Kaabil is second choice for most Bollywood buffs over the holiday weekend.

Which means, far lesser number of people will have seen the film than Raees before piracy inevitably takes over.

While Raees is expected to cross a Rs 300-crore haul, Hrithik should be happy to touch the Rs 150- crore mark.
The most refreshing side of the UP elections is that almost all the parties are banking heavily on women campaigners.

Leaders such as Dimple Yadav, Priyanka Gandhi, Smriti Irani and Anupriya Patel, have been blazing the campaign trail for their respective parties, creating quite a buzz in political circles.

All eyes will, however, be set on the Priyanka-Dimple pair and sources say the Congress-SP alliance has huge expectations from the women, in terms of their charismatic presence.

Priyanka Gandhi (right) will campaign only in Amethi and Rae Bareli

The two women leaders are expected to be a major crowd puller, while campaigning in the interiors.

While Priyanka will campaign only in Amethi and Rae Bareli, Dimple will set on a whirlwind tour in the entire state.

With her participation in almost all political programmes along with her husband, Dimple has first-hand knowledge of the wants of the electorate and the issues the state is facing.

Like Rahul and Akhilesh, both Priyanka and Dimple will campaign jointly for the candidates of both parties.

Dimple Yadav, Akhilesh's wife will set on a whirlwind tour in the entire state

Other women star campaigners of the alliance include former Speaker Meera Kumar, former Delhi CM Sheila Dixit, and actresses Nagma and Jaya Bachchan.

While the BJP also has a long list of women star campaigners, the main responsibility will be on Union minister Smriti Irani and Mathura MP and actress Hema Malini.

In the last Lok Sabha elections, Irani gave a neck-to-neck fight with Rahul Gandhi in his bastion Amethi.

Other star campaigners include Rajasthan CM Vasundhara Raje Scindia, Union minister Maneka Gandhi and firebrand leaders Uma Bharti and Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti.

The new entrant in the list is Swati Singh, president of BJP state Mahila Morcha.

Jyoti is the wife of BJP leader Dayashankar Singh who used abusive language against Mayawati last year.

Jyoti, her daughter and mother-in-law were targeted by BSP activists after this incident following which she gained a lot of sympathy.

Unlike others, Mayawati is the sole women face in the BSP.

She will be holding more than 60 rallies in the state starting from Meerut on February 1.

Actress and Mathura MP Hema Malini has been invited to campaign in UP polls

BJP ally Apna Dal has its own star campaigner in the form of Union minister Anupriya Patel.

She is a popular face in many districts of Poorvanchal and also has a lot of influence on backward voters in the region.

Smriti Irani has been the most prolific campaigner of BJP

Out of 371 seats the BJP is contesting, it has given tickets to 42 women (11.2%) while SP has given tickets to 29 women out of 324 seats it is contesting (9%).

The BSP has fielded 20 women out of 401 seats it is contesting (5%), and the Congress has given tickets to merely two women out of 41 seats it is contesting (5%).

There are a total of 93 women contenders in the fray from among 1,137 candidates.
The Karnataka High Court issued a bailable arrest warrant against beleaguered liquor baron Vijay Mallya for allegedly violating an undertaking given by him and his companies not to transfer their equity shares in United Breweries Limited (UBL) to British spirits company Diageo Plc.

'We are issuing a bailable arrest warrant against the accused (Vijay Mallya) for violating an undertaking given by him in the case,' said Justice Jayant Patel heading a division bench.

The warrant has been issued after Mallya failed to appear before the bench, also comprising Justice Aravind Kumar, on petitions filed by a consortium of banks led by State Bank of India.

The Karnataka High Court issued a bailable arrest warrant against beleaguered liquor baron Vijay Mallya

The banks have accused Mallya of violating the undertaking given by him and his companies, including the now defunct Kingfisher Airlines, not to transfer their equity shares in UBL after the Debt Recovery Tribunal (DRT) had restrained Standard Chartered Bank, with which the shares had been pledged, from handing over the same to Diageo Plc.

On December 2 last, Justice Vineet Kothari of the high court had rejected Mallya's application for recalling its order summoning him for allegedly violating the undertaking.

On October 20 last, Justices Patel and Kumar had summoned Mallya to appear before it on November 24.

Resuming the hearing, counsel for the bankers, Nagananda pleaded that a non-bailable arrest warrant be issued against Mallya for violating the undertaking given to the court.

At this, the bench asked whether the bankers had placed documents submitted before the Supreme Court suggesting the non-residence of Mallya in the country in order to issue non-bailable arrest warrant against the liquor baron.

Since you (bankers) haven't placed the Supreme Court documents suggesting Mallya's nonresidence in India, we request you to submit the same before us.

After which, the court would decide on issuing non-bailable arrest warrant, which your are pleading for, Justice Patel said.

The division bench posted the matter for next hearing on February 17.

The DRT, in its order last year, had restrained Standard Chartered Bank from transferring to Diageo Plc or anyone else, the equity shares of UBL pledged by Mallya and his son Siddharth with the bank.

In their plea, the banks alleged that despite the earlier order by DRT, Standard Chartered Bank was in the process of transferring the equity shares to Diageo Plc.

The British liquor giant, had issued a guarantee to Standard Chartered Bank for a USD 135 million (around Rs 877 crore) loan to a Mallya-linked firm.

'I am kind of getting used to these witch hunts coming from all directions with no legal basis whatsoever. Shows what Govt Machinery can do,' Mallya had tweeted on Thursday.
In a strong message to officers seeking to quit on flimsy grounds, the navy has rejected the plea of a Lieutenant Commander to resign from the force as his wife was reluctant to leave Delhi, to live with him outside the national Capital.

The Lieutenant Commander had requested the navy to relieve him of his commission on 'compassionate grounds' including his mother's ailing health, along with his wife's reluctance to leave Delhi.

After the officer put forward his resignation request before authorities multiple times with the latest being filed in 2015, the force replied that as per its policy issued in 2012, such request will not be acceded.

After the navy rejected the officers plea, he approached the military court in Delhi

The officers with less than 15 years of service 'will normally not to be acceded to keeping in view the shortage of officers and time spent on training, unless there are overwhelming and compelling reasons for acceding to such requests'.

The officer had joined the Navy in 2011 and wanted to resign only after putting in five years of service at the time when he first forwarded his resignation plea.

'There is an acute shortage in the navy, especially in the junior officers' pool.

A substantial training input has been expended on the officer till date.

Allowing the officer to leave service at this juncture would lead to wastage of training effort and would only exacerbate shortages,' the navy said while rejecting his plea.

The grounds for quitting the service put forward by the officer were also rejected as the navy said 'compassionate grounds put forth by the officer are generic in nature and not convincing enough to merit resignation of commission.'

In the last three years, the navy has received 79 requests for premature retirement from its officers and 72 of them were allowed to leave as their grounds for quitting were found to be compelling.

After the navy rejected the officer's plea, he approached the military court in Delhi against the maritime force's decision and seeking premature retirement.

However, the court further exposed the officer saying that the officer had cited the ailing health of his mother as a reason for resignation, but 'has produced no documents' to substantiate his claims.

The tribunal further reminded the officer that as per the provisions in the navy, an officer in the force cannot claim permission to resign as a matter of right.

'It is made clear that the application from officers for premature voluntary retirement or permission to resign from Commission are considered on merit, subject to exigencies of the service.

'On the officer's argument that his request for resignation was recommended by his commanding officer, the court said the 'recommendation does not show the applicant's claim was substantiated by cogent evidence, either oral or documentary'.

'For foregoing reasons, this plea is found to be devoid of any merit and hence, it is dismissed,' the navy said.
The battle lines are drawn in Uttar Pradesh and the war rooms of political parties in the fray are getting combat-ready.

With the first phase of voting on February 11, these nerve centres are brimming with young techies and election strategists.

Major players such as the BJP, SP and Congress have set up high-tech war rooms in state capital Lucknow and have been running clamorous campaigns on Facebook, Twitter and WhatsApp over the past six months.

The SP war room was lying defunct for the past couple of months due to the family feud

Digital canvassing for polls has picked up steam in India since Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the NDA to a resounding victory in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections when his team used social media in innovative ways to maximise reach among young voters.

BJP: The most active and buzzing war room is that of the BJP, which works in full swing even on Sundays.

The 20-seat call centre at the BJP state headquarters operates round the clock, while a private 90-seater one also works rigorously to promote party policies.

'We make 20,000 calls to local party committees every day, inquiring about the WhatsApp groups on which they are sharing our messages,' a young graduate at the BJP state headquarters war room said, requesting anonymity.

Sanjay Rai, the BJP's state IT head, said nearly 8,000 pro-BJP WhatsApp groups have been created to woo voters.

The BJP war room works round the clock on all seven days in Lucknow

'All groups have been given the responsibility of sending messages to at least 100 users. We release 6 to 8 contents every day', Rai said.

The content includes information regarding the party, central government schemes and inputs related to developments on the state's law and order situation, he added.

Congress: The Congress war room doesn't work 24x7. The state IT cell head Prashant Singh claims that the party does not 'believe in show-off'.

'Our main war room is based in Delhi and we do not need to show off like them (BJP). You do not need to sit at a fixed place to be socially active,' he argued.

Singh said nearly 50 professionals are working for the party.

'About 15 are engaged in social media activities and the rest are working as tele-callers who are involved in building voter connect and gathering inputs.'

'Besides, we also have a team of over 300 who are involved in content writing and related jobs,' he told Mail Today.

'Unlike the BJP, we are not involved in negative politics.'

The Congress war room doesn't work 24x7. The state IT cell head Prashant Singh claims that the party does not 'believe in show-off'.

'We are only mentioning positive inputs about the works carried out by the Congress in the past and highlighting the main points of rallies held by our leaders like Rahul Gandhi, Raj Babbar, etc,' he said.

Samajwadi Party: Though the war room was largely lying defunct for the past couple of months, due to the ongoing family feud, it was recently shifted to a new base near the party's state headquarters.

Headed by Ashish Yadav, who is also the media communication head of the party, the war room members chiefly focus on development in the national and regional media.

'Kaam bolta hai (work speaks) is the theme of the war room.'

'The fact that he (CM Akhilesh Yadav) too is tech savvy inspired us to work with twice the energy.'

'The war room has four sections - media monitoring cell, research cell, digital content on social media and a call centre.'

'We make over 2,000 phone calls every day to booth-level workers and get their feedback.'

'Our social content is basically aimed at highlighting the developmental works carried out by the CM during his tenure,' a member of the war room said, preferring anonymity.

'We get feedback not only on our party but even rivals like the BSP and BJP.'

A few days ago, the CM also gave an additional responsibility to his wife and MP Dimple Yadav.

'She will connect with female voters through WhatsApp and make them aware of the policies and achievements of the government,' a source said. Bahujan Samaj Party:

The BSP is a late entrant in the social media game. There is no set physical infrastructure for the war room and it is running virtually.

'Nearly 400 of our selected party workers are running it from various parts of the state, publicising our line of thought among the voters,' party spokesperson Pravesh Mishra said.

'A majority of our tech-savvy workers include alumnus of IITs, other engineering colleges and universities like JNU, AMU and DU.'

Modi lookalikes campaign in Punjab

In Jalandhar, 'Narendra Modi' reached an hour before schedule without his heavy SPG cover - a move that upped the public's selfie mania.

He was accompanied by 'Amit Shah', who was not expected at the rally.

The men here in question are not the real Modi and Amit Shah, but lookalikes Ranbir Dahiya and Rajinder Aggarwal.

Modi lookalikes are campaigning in Punjab. File picture of PM Modi

The duo has been campaigning for the BJP since the 2014 Lok Sabha elections.

Dahiya even visited Varanasi to seek votes for Modi.

Dahiya (66) was first roped in by party workers from Delhi in 2014.

A former employee of the Delhi transport department and wearing a Modi-style jacket, Dahiya said he first met Modi in Varanasi during the 2014 Lok Sabha elections and desires to meet him personally.

Since his 'discovery', he has been sent to various states for campaigning.

Since he landed in Ludhiana on Saturday evening, more than 500 people have clicked photos with him.

Aggarwal is also from Delhi, where he runs a small business.

Akhilesh Yadav not to contest

Akhilesh expressed desire to contest from Bundelkhand, saying people of the area wanted better representation and he was contemplating contesting from there.

At a hurriedly called meeting at Samajwadi Party office by UP CM Akhilesh Yadav on Friday to gauge the sentiments of office-bearers and party workers, a drooping body language and an abrupt decision to not to contest in the assembly polls speak volumes of the rapidly changing political dynamics in the state.

Akhilesh said: 'Some TV channels are saying that I will contest from Sarojini Nagar in Lucknow. This news is planted by Sharda Pratap Shukla. I am not contesting from anywhere. I am an MLC till 2018 and I will campaign for all.'

Last month, Akhilesh expressed desire to contest from Bundelkhand, saying people of the area wanted better representation and he was contemplating contesting from there.
BTs boss has apologised to savers who saw the value of their investments collapse following its Italian accounting scandal.

Gavin Patterson said he was angry the companys reputation had been damaged after it revealed a 530m hole in its finances.

Markets were stunned on Tuesday by BTs admission that inappropriate behaviour had caused it to exaggerate its profits in Italy.

Staying out: BT boss Gavin Patterson insists he will keep his job at BT though he admits investors are angry

The profit warning led to 8bn being wiped off the companys share price  dealing a blow to BTs army of almost one million small investors.

I am sorry, I apologise to Daily Mail readers, said Patterson. The integrity of the company has been challenged by a handful of individuals in Italy.

'Shareholders are clearly very unhappy about it.

Patterson, 49, said the situation was under control. The telecoms giant has sacked senior executives, and yesterday revealed its European boss Corrado Sciolla was leaving, as it happened on his watch.

However, Patterson, who earned 5.4m last year, remained tight lipped on whether he would be handing any of it back.

That will be a decision the remuneration committee will take, he said.

However, he sought to point towards a strong performance in the rest of the business.

The scandal drove a 37 per cent dent in BTs third-quarter profit, falling to 526m from 832m a year earlier. But revenue over the period rose 32 per cent to 6.1bn.

BT was this week awarded the Daily Mails Wooden Spoon award for poor customer service.

It is frustrating to have won it again, Patterson said.

Shares closed up 0.2 per cent, or 0.7p at 302.8p.
Gender pay

Employers are getting guidance ahead of regulations that come into force in April forcing firms to report on their gender pay gap.

The rules affect firms employing at least 250 and is aimed at revealing differences between the pay of men and women. The Office for National Statistics said the gender pay gap for full-time workers was 9.4 per cent, rising to 18.1 per cent for all employees.

New Gender Pay Regulations come into force in April

Defence fears

Auditors warned the Ministry of Defence is at risk of not being able to afford its equipment over the next nine years.

The National Audit Office said that to meet its spending plans the MoD will need to save an extra 5.8bn and use all of a 10.7bn fund set aside for emerging requirements.

Alphabet boost

Googles parent company Alphabet reported exceptional growth in its quarterly financial results. Overall revenue increase by 22 per cent to $26.1bn (20.7bn) on the same period last year, while net income was also up to more than $5.3bn (4.2bn).

Tourist trade

A record number of tourists flocked to Britain in November. A total of 3.1m visits were made to Britain in that month, up 17 per cent on November 2015, with tourists spending a whopping 1.7bn.

Popular attraction: Tourist numbers continue to grow as a record number of visitors came to UK in November

Loans cut

Paragon Bank more than halved lending to landlords in the last three months of 2016 after tighter rules were introduced. It agreed buy-to-let loans of 185.2m, compared to almost 401m a year previously.

Solid earnings: A New All-Time High For Microsoft

Sales up

Microsoft reported revenue of $24.1bn (19.1bn) in the three months to December 31, up on the $23.8bn (18.9bn) it generated in the same period last year, an increase driven by its cloud-based products.

Nuclear strike

Six hundred workers at the Atomic Weapons Establishment sites in Aldermaston and Burghfield, Berkshire, will strike for 48 hours from one minute past midnight on Monday in a row over pensions.

Pension chunk

John Lewis has taken a chunk out of the black hole in its final salary pension scheme. The employee-owned retailers pension deficit has fallen from 840m to 479m.

Exec quits

Kent Masters is quitting as a non-executive director at engineer Amec Foster Wheeler before the end of his three-year term. He was appointed to the board in February 2015.
Flash traders have had their bid to build a giant telecoms mast on the Kent coast turned down by councillors.

Dover District Council rejected the bid by two secretive American high-frequency trading firms to build two masts taller than the Eiffel Tower, which is 1,063ft high to its tip.

Vigilant Global  which is owned by Chicago trading firm DRW  and New Line Networks  which is part owned by New York firm Jump Trading  wanted to each build a radio mast in Richborough, north of Sandwich, to increase trading speeds between London and Frankfurt.

Flash boys: high-frequency traders use powerful computers to trade huge volumes at high speeds

The masts hold satellite dishes that can pick up microwave signals which update the traders on the latest stock prices. These masts are utilised by high-frequency traders who use powerful computers to trade huge volumes at high speeds.

Information sent by microwave signals are quicker than cables, which run along the ground, by fractions of a second. But this minuscule bit of extra speed enables the traders to make money by buying and selling ahead of their rivals.

But on Thursday night their plans were voted down by Dover councils planning committee after huge local opposition.

Bernard Butcher, vice-chairman of the planning committee, said: In 26 years as a councillor, this is the worst application I have ever seen. This particular proposal is just unsightly, its too incredibly stupid for us to even contemplate.

The councils planning department warned the structures  as tall as the Eiffel Tower  would damage local views and harm the character of the area.

Planning officer Andrew Somerville said the views from Richborough Roman Fort, a local tourist attraction, would be particularly harmed.

Concerns: National Grid said there could be interference with television signals

National Grid also said it was worried about potential interference with television signals.

Eric Bellerive, a director at Vigilant, said: It is our firm belief that this proposal would have solved a real problem for the financial industry whilst providing significant value to national and local economies.

It is important that we now take time to reflect on the feedback provided by the councillors and evaluate if there is a manner in which a future scheme could progress in a mutually beneficial fashion.

New Line Networks declined to comment, but they can ask the Government to review the councils decision.
Millionaire plumber Charlie Mullins has been facing a torrent of abuse on social media  and even a death threat.

The founder of Pimlico Plumbers  and a former adviser to David Cameron  bankrolled the successful legal bid to give Parliament a vote on Brexit and has been an outspoken backer of the Remain case.

It has not made him popular in some quarters. Its like Britains at war at the moment, he declares.

Driven: Charlie Mullins has had a good year, but isn't sure it will last after Brexit

I had a death threat from some guy and the police got involved. Something on Facebook. I didnt report it, but one of our customers reported it and the police investigated it. Weve had the normal amount of abuse which you can live with and accept.

But the death threatsthats just way out of bounds.

Mullins has been more behind the scenes in the case than Gina Miller, the fund manager who was the face of the Article 50 case. The case, of course, won in the Supreme Court last week, forcing the Government to table a bill in Parliament to quit the EU.

But as the main paymaster of the plan, Mullins has not avoided attack and had to hire security for the court hearings. Its disgusting. But I dont think we got it to the same level as her, he says, referring to Miller.

They might seem an unlikely alliance. Mullins began his plumbing career by bunking off school and has since built an empire which last year turned over 30million.

He may not be an obvious member of the global liberal elite, but he is rich. I have a nice car, I have a Bentley. I drove it to the court, and everyones saying typical Remainer.

Attacked: Mullins has not avoided attack and had to hire security for the court hearings

But Remain people and Leave people, were all the same. Theres a mixture right across the board.

'People that have got no money, people that come from no money, to people that are wealthy. It doesnt matter how much you earn or what job youre in, if you vote Remain or Leave, thats your decision. I dont think we should put people in pigeon holes.

So how did the blunt-speaking tradesman Mullins meet Gina Miller?

Well, my lawyers Mishcon de Reya mentioned that this case was going to be happening. We had a meeting there. I liked what she had to say. I thought she was very positive, very meaningful, and a very brave woman. We became the main financial backer.

I have a Bentley. I drove it to court and everyones saying typical Remainer

I did it for the benefit of my children, grandchildren, and for the future of Britain.

Mullins says he would prefer it if the Brexit vote was overturned, but he will accept leaving the EU. I mean democracy is Parliament, isnt it? Thats what theyre there for.

Unfortunately, I think the referendum has been so misleading and divided the country so much, Im getting tired of it now. I just really want to get on with it. If were going to leave, just show us how were going to leave and lets leave in the best possible way.

He adds: But what none of us voted for in the referendum is to be poorer and worse off.

Im not a politician and I dont claim to be. Im only working off common sense. But nobody can tell me to shut the window on 500 million customers in the EU, and 225 billion worth of trade. I think its 45 per cent of all trade goes through the EU. You havent got to be a politician to work out: that aint a bad deal.

Maybe, in a couple of years it turns out for the better. But as a betting man, I believe this will be the end of Theresa May once it all kicks in, and I believe its a recession coming.

Funding: Mullins has been more behind the scenes in the case than Gina Miller, the fund manager who was the face of the Article 50 case

Perhaps inevitably, Mullins, 64, has faced accusations that he only supports staying in the EU because his plumbing business employs large numbers of East European workers.

I get a load of stuff on Twitter: Yeah, he wants to stay out of the EU so that he can keep paying Polish plumbers. Its a load of rubbish, Mullins insists.

I employ 350 people and Ive got two or three foreign workers. Ive got a guy who works in the yard that comes from Lithuania. Ive got another one starting on Monday that comes from Lithuania, who is a friend of his. Ive probably got the odd Italian and the odd French and thats it.

But if we stop free movement and a lot of the people from the EU do go home, Londons construction is going to come to a standstill. Lets not kid anybody. When you go by a building site now its full of people from the EU, whether we like it or not. London will come to a standstill.

Foreign building labour is essential to major projects past and future, he argues. Take them away and we wouldnt have had the Olympics and we wont be getting another runway done, we cannot do it. And all these from the EU that work in Starbucks etc, theyre adding to our economy. Take them away, I tell you what, London is going to be in trouble.

The skills shortage that is drawing many European workers to the UK is better solved by Government action rather than leaving the EU, argues Mullins. My answer is: Its the benefits system thats stopping us working, not the EU.

I spoke to a very established City bank and they say no one wants to invest in the UK

All the Government has got to do is, rather than give the youngsters job benefit money, turn it into job allowance. Give it to the employer who will put it towards a better living wage.

Ive had these conversations with Boris, Theresa May, Cameron, Osborne. That is what you need to do to resolve the apprenticeship thing, solve youth unemployment. Simple. But despite the challenges and uncertainty, business is booming for Pimlico Plumbers in Lambeth.

He said: Weve just taken out a major advertising campaign with a television channel to run until September. We need to boost up because people are going to be tightening their belts and not spending.

Between now and December we will have recruited another 50 people. Were doing great. Were heading for a 35million turnover. Last year, it was 30million.

But that doesnt mean its going to continue. Everyone keeps saying to me: Charlie, how comes you say Brexits a bad thing but your business is doing good? The answer is: I dont believe Brexits kicked in yet, I really dont.

I spoke to a very, very established bank in the City, and their take is that the last place investors want to invest at the moment is the UK.

And when bankers are saying that the last place that anyone would invest at the moment is the UK, now that says everything, doesnt it?

One suspects the angry Twitter crowd will not agree.
Ebola has spread to a fifth nation in West Africa as it was revealed the epidemic has killed more than 1,550 people in the region.

A case of the deadly virus has been reported in Senegal, making it the first time a new country has been hit by the outbreak since July.

It comes a day after the World Health Organisation warned the number of infections was increasing rapidly.

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The Central Hospital of University of Fann in Dakar, Senegal, where the first case of Ebola in the country was received

Senegalese health minister Awa Marie Coll-Seck confirmed the frist case of Ebola in Senegal, the fifth West African country to be hit by the deadly virus

The Ebola virus has claimed the lives of more than 1,550 people in West Africa since the outbreak started

Senegal's health ministry said the country's first Ebola patient was a young Guinean man who was immediately quarantined at a Dakar hospital, where he was in a 'satisfactory condition'.

The man is believed to have been infected in Guinea's capital Conakry, and may have travelled to Senegal before Dakar closed its land border with Guinea on August 21.

Authorities are now trying to piece together where he went and who he encountered, in a bid to halt the spread of the deadly virus.

Meanwhile, Liberia says it will open up a slum in its capital where thousands of people were barricaded to contain the spread.

Information Minister Lewis Brown says lifting the quarantine on Saturday does not mean there is no Ebola in the West Point slum.

Family members and friends of a man believed to have died form the Ebola virus, gather near his home as his body is removed by health workers in Monrovia, Liberia

Liberian health workers outside a home of a man that they believed died from the Ebola virus in Monrovia, Liberia

Despite the death, Liberia says it will open up a slum in its capital where thousands of people were barricaded to contain the spread of the virus

Liberian health workers carry the body of a man that they believed died form the Ebola virus from his home in Monrovia, Liberia. The Ebola outbreak in West Africa could exceed 20,000 cases, the World Health Organisation has warned

But authorities feel confident they can screen for the sick and that the community now actively fighting the disease.

Scientists say the first human trials of a potential vaccine would start next week using a product made by pharmaceuticals giant GlaxoSmithKline and the US government.

On Friday, scientists writing in the journal Nature said 18 lab monkeys given high doses of the Ebola virus fully recovered after being given the prototype drug ZMapp, which reversed bleeding in the animals.

ZMapp has been given to a handful of frontline health workers who have contracted Ebola, two of whom have recovered, and two of whom have died. Three others are still receiving the treatment.

New figures released by WHO this week revealed the massive scale of the crisis, which it said indicated a 'rapid increase still in the intensity of transmission' that could cost at least $490 million to tackle.

The LIberian government says lifting the quarantine will not mean there is no Ebola in the West Point slum

A school classroom lies abandoned in Kenema, Sierra Leone. Many have been shut while whole villages have been quarantined in the country

In a sign that affected countries are struggling to stop its spread, the UN agency said the number of cases could exceed 20,000 before the epidemic is brought under control.

As of August 26, 1,552 people had been confirmed dead from Ebola in four countries - Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea and Nigeria.

Liberia was the worst affected with 694 deaths; 422 people have died in Sierra Leone; and 430 in Guinea, where the virus emerged at the start of the year. Nigeria has now recorded six deaths.

The Democratic Republic of Congo has also confirmed two cases of Ebola, but officials there insist it is unconnected to the current outbreak in West Africa.

In Sierra Leone President Ernest Koroma yesterday sacked health minister Miatta Kargbo.

WEST AFRICAN NATIONS HIT OUT AT 'UNFAIR' TRAVEL BANS In a bid to stop the spread of the virus, many African governments have sought to ringfence Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia. But member states of the West African regional bloc ECOWAS have complained that some of the security measures taken by other countries, including travel bans, had unfairly hit the region. A number of airlines, including Air France and British Airways, have suspended their services to Freetown and Monrovia, the capitals of Sierra Leone and Liberia respectively. A number of airlines, including Air France and British Airways, have suspended their services to Freetown and Monrovia, the capitals of Sierra Leone and Liberia respectively Bruce Aylward, the WHO's head of emergency programmes, said it was 'absolutely vital' that airlines resume flights because bans were hindering the emergency response. The outbreak has also caused sporting chaos, with Sierra Leone having to field all players for the qualifying games for the African Cup of Nations from outside the country over a growing quarantine. Morocco, which will host the tournament next year, said on Friday it was launching a national commission tasked with drawing up a health plan to deal with the risk from Ebola.

A presidential statement read on state television said the decision was made 'in order to create a conducive environment for more efficient and effective handling of the Ebola outbreak.'

Nigeria's latest death - in the southeastern oil city of Port Harcourt - was the first outside its biggest city, Lagos, and dashed hopes that the country had successfully contained the virus.

The victim, a doctor named Ikyke Samuel Enuemo, is believed to have caught the virus from a patient he treated who travelled to the city after coming into contact with an infected Liberian-American man.

Some 160 people are now under surveillance in Port Harcourt following the doctor's death, the local government said on Friday.
Rare images from North Korea show thousands of workers, some of whom appear to be children, shoveling snow from a road leading to the hermit country's Masikryong ski resort.

Scores of civilians were captured along the winding stretch during blizzard conditions hacking at the frozen ground with makeshift wooden shovels as opposed to using snow trucks, used in other parts of the world, to clear snow covered roads.

Footage captured men, women and children as young as 11-years-of-age wrapped up in winter clothing moving the snow to allow the country's elite and tourists to get to the plush resort on the outskirts of Wonsan.

Graft: Civilians hacked at the frozen ground with makeshift wooden shovels to clear the road to the ski resort

Privilege: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un guides the winter river-crossing attack tactical drill of the reinforced tank in Pyongyang on January 28

Small groups of uniformed soldiers were also seen joining in the work but the effort was largely a civilian effort, according to NBC, who captured the footage.

The workers also scattered earth and stones on the icy road to stop vehicles that passed from skidding over the edge.

Despite the labour intensive work few cars passed the route onto North Korea's only ski resort which caters for the country's elite, who are nearly all high-ranking officials in the Worker's Party, and a smattering of tourists.

Struggle: Men, women and children as young as 11 -years-of-age were spotted along the long road to the resort

The bone chilling exercise was made all the more futile as only four of the resort's 10 slopes were open the day NBC visited.

It is unclear how the workers got to the mountain and whether they live close by. There didn't appear to be a person overseeing the grueling job for the miles of road they were working on.

The Masikryong ski resort is three hour drive from showcase capital Pyongyang and is said to rival top ski destinations across the world.

The summit is over 4,000ft and the ten slopes, when open, cater for all levels of skiers, from beginners to the slalom experts who swoon their way down the wide pistes.

Fun for some: North Korea's elite hit the slopes of the country's only ski resort

Skiers can rent out equipment at a shop and a large hotel at the bottom of the piste offers first, second or third-class rooms.

Footage shows party official children swooping down the slopes dressed in new boots and skis which would take the average North Korean worker months to be able to afford, just to rent for a day in Masikryong.

Kim Jong-un inspecting his 'pet project', near Wonsan in North Korea with top officials

A ski-less Kim Jong-Un surveys the snowy surroundings during his visit at the end of 2012

Despite the relative luxury a giant screen towards the bottom of a slope blares out propaganda, like on collective farm radios across the country, and shows images of saluting generals and officials at a Communist Party conference.

And the hotel lobby has copies of Pyongyang newspapers from the day after Supreme Leader Kim Jong-un visited the resort.

During his visit Kim watched people ski, praised the country's sportsmen and watched some nearby artillery firing.

Authoritarian North Korea relies on the 'revolutionary' work done every day by the millions of peasants and factory workers, organised by the ruling Worker's Party, to maintain and create 'a socialist fairyland.'
Two men were charged Friday with roles in Ponzi schemes that cheated wealthy people, including some who believed they were investing in ticket businesses for popular shows like an Adele concert and Broadway's 'Hamilton.'

Joseph Meli, 42, of Manhattan, and Steven Simmons, 48, of Wilton, Connecticut, were arrested on charges alleging they enticed wealthy individuals to make multi-million-dollar investments.

The Securities and Exchange Commission said in a civil complaint that the Ponzi schemes led people in 13 states to invest $81million. Meli's scheme included investments in businesses that would buy large blocks of tickets for major concerts and musicals, authorities said.

Steven Simmons (left) and Joseph Meli (right) leaves Manhattan federal court Friday in New York, after they were freed on $1 million bail in a Ponzi scheme case

The SEC said at least $51million of the $81million was diverted to pay off other investors or for personal expenses of co-conspirators. Simmons was not charged in the civil complaint, but both men were charged criminally with conspiracy, securities fraud and wire fraud.

They were each freed on $1million bail as U.S. Magistrate Judge James C. Francis IV rejected a prosecutor's request that they be held without bail.

Simmons declined to comment as he left Manhattan federal court, though his attorney noted he had no criminal record. Meli's attorneys called the accusations false.

Two men allegedly swindled people in 13 states to invest in a business they thought sold 'Hamilton' (pictured) tickets

Steven Simmons and Joseph Meli were accused of tricking rich people into investing $81million total into their Ponzi scheme

Deputy U.S. Attorney Joon H. Kim said Meli and Simmons ran Ponzi schemes even as they pitched backers with legitimate-sounding investments.

'Meli allegedly made up out of whole cloth purported deals to buy Broadway tickets that he could later sell at a profit,' Kim said. 'But as alleged, Meli was just robbing Peter to pay Paul.'

William F. Sweeney Jr., head of the FBI's New York office, said the defendants had joked about their Ponzi scheme, saying it was a 'shell game.'

'When fraudsters think they're going to get away with scheming investors out of money, they tend to forget that at some point the money will run out. It's the way a Ponzi scheme ends,' he said.

According to a criminal complaint, the fraud stretched from November 2015 through January and the Ponzi schemes developed as investors demanded their money.

Meli spent over $200,000 at a luxury car dealership, the complaint said.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua Naftalis had sought to have both men detained without bail.

He said Simmons was a danger to the community because he told an FBI agent after his arrest he hoped Meli "put two slugs in the back of the cooperator's head."

The scheme allegedly claimed to sell Adele tickets. The SEC said at least $51million of the $81million was diverted to pay off other investors or for personal expenses of co-conspirators

Attorney Florian Miedel, representing Simmons, told the magistrate judge that Simmons had made an ill-advised, jokey comment' but had no criminal history.

The prosecutor said Meli was a risk to flee, citing a statement heard by investigators Thursday in which he claimed he was draining his bank account and had gotten together his passport and valuables. Naftalis said that comment led investigators to make the arrests Friday, earlier than they had planned.

Michael Bowen, an attorney representing Meli, said his client drained his account Thursday to pay Bowen's law firm to represent him after learning he was under investigation. He said Meli also had turned over his passport and valuables to the law firm for safekeeping.

In a statement, Bowen and attorney Marc Kasowitz said the complaint against Meli was not true and he will 'vigorously defend against the criminal charges.'
A seven-month-old boy from Ohio is the new face of Gerber baby products.

Though he probably won't be saying much anytime soon, the spokesbaby named Riley has an 'infectious laugh and big, gummy smile', according to his mom, Kristen Shines.

Gerber announced Thursday that Riley, who lives with his family in Lewis Center, beat out more than 110,000 other entries. He now has the chance to star in a future ad.

Riley Shines of Lewis Center, Ohio is the new face of Gerber baby products

Riley's parents will receive $50,000 plus $1,500 in Gerber clothing. Shines says the money will help start a college fund for her son.

The annual Gerber baby photo search began seven years ago. It pays homage to Ann Turner Cook, whose face has been featured on Gerber's packaging since 1928. She celebrated her 90th birthday in November.

Riley's parents told Us Weekly the infant hasn't let the fame go to his head. His dad Devin said: ' Hes a laid-back guy.'

Mom Kristen Shines (left) said new Gerber baby Riley is a well mannered infant

'He only gets fussy when he needs to nap or if he has a wet diaper. Even when hes hungry hell just kind of hint at you like, "Hey, I could use some more food."'

Mom Kristen said: 'If all babies were this easy, the world would be way more populated!'

Gerber is based in Florham Park, New Jersey, and is a unit of Nestle SA, based in Vevey, Switzerland.
New Jersey prosecutors will not pursue a criminal misconduct case against Chris Christie in the 'Bridgegate' scandal.

No charges will be brought against the outspoken Republican governor for his alleged political revenge plot in the 'baseless fiasco' of the George Washington Bridge lane closures in 2013.

Bergen County prosecutors said in a letter that the state of New Jersey does not believe it can prove official misconduct beyond a reasonable doubt against Christie on Friday.

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New Jersey prosecutors will not pursue charges for governor Chris Christie for his alleged revenge plot in the George Washington Bridge lane closures in 2013, it was announced Friday

The letter deals a blow to the misconduct case stemming from a complaint filed by former Teaneck firefighter William Brennan, who has declared himself a Democratic candidate for governor.

A municipal court judge is set to hear arguments for the second time in a probable cause hearing next month.

Brennan's complaint says that Christie violated the state's misconduct law when he failed to reopen local access lanes in Fort Lee that were closed in an alleged plot to punish a mayor who didn't back Christie's re-election bid in 2013.

A Superior Court judge this month sent the complaint back to municipal court for a new hearing.

Brennan said in an interview that the decision not to pursue charges shows that prosecutors cannot be 'fair and impartial.'

'This vindicates my position that a special prosecutor is needed,' he said. A Superior Court judge earlier rejected Brennan's request for such a prosecutor. County prosecutors are appointed by the governor in New Jersey.

The complaints were originally brought forth after claims that Christie violated the state's misconduct law when he failed to reopen local access lanes in Fort Lee that were closed in an alleged plot to punish a mayor who didn't back Christie's re-election bid in 2013

Christie's office said in a statement that the governor was 'gratified' the 'baseless fiasco' has ended.

'It is right and appropriate that this injustice against the Governor is finally over,' spokesman Brian Murray said.

Two of Christie's former aides were convicted in federal court in November in the scandal. Christie has denied wrongdoing and was never charged in the case.

Superior Court Judge Bonnie Mizdol agreed earlier this month with arguments from Christie's attorneys that the lower court's October finding of probable cause was flawed. But in turning down the request for dismissal, she rejected their arguments that the evidence Brennan offered, which was testimony from the federal trial, wasn't sufficient for a probable cause finding.

If Brennan's complaint is allowed to go forward, prosecutors would have to collect evidence and present it to a grand jury, which would have to hand up an indictment before Christie could face a criminal trial.

But in Friday's letter, prosecutors say they've examined the transcripts from the federal trial and have concluded they could not prove the charges sufficiently.
New commercial satellite imagery has appeared to indicate that North Korea has restarted its plutonium reactor at its nuclear weapons site.

The pictures, taken earlier this month, were obtained by Washington-based think tank 38 North Korea who have analysed them an say they indicate plumes of water.

They say the images show signs that Kim Jong Un has started the reactor at Yongbyon, having unloaded spent fuel rods for reprocessing to produce additional plutonium for its nuclear weapons stockpile.

New commercial satellite imagery has appeared to indicate that North Korea has restarted its plutonium reactor at its nuclear weapons site due to the presence of a water plume

In a report, the think tank said: 'Imagery from January 22 shows a water plume (most probably warm) originating from the cooling water outlet of the reactor, an indication that the reactor is very likely operating.'

They added it is impossible to estimate at what power level the reactor was running, it may be considerable.

It comes after North Korea suspended operations at the reactor in late 2015, but has maintained its nuclear and missiles programmes in spite of repeated rounds of international sanctions.

News of the apparent reactor restart also comes at a time of rising concern about North Korea's weapons programs, which could present the new administration of U.S. President Donald Trump with its first major crisis.

A Washington-based think-tank say the pictures show signs that North Korea leader Kim Jong Un has started the reactor at Yongbyon

A report by leading U.S.-based nuclear expert Siegfried Hecker published by 38 North last September estimated North Korea had stockpiles of 70 to 119 pounds of plutonium.

This would be enough for six to eight bombs, and the report added North Korea had the capacity to produce six kilos of plutonium, or approximately one bomb's worth, per year.

North Korea also produces highly enriched uranium for atomic bombs and would have sufficient fissile material for approximately 20 bombs by the end of last year, and the capacity to produce seven more a year, that report said.

In a New Year speech, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said his country was close to test launching an Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) and state media has said a launch could come at any time.

Trump's defense secretary plans to visit Japan and South Korea next week and shared concerns about North Korea are expected to top his agenda.

Assessments of the North's plutonium stockpile are generally consistent and believed to be accurate because experts and governments can estimate plutonium production levels from telltale signs of reactor operation in satellite imagery.

The known history of the uranium enrichment project dates to 2003, when the North was confronted by the United States with evidence of a clandestine programme to build a facility to enrich uranium with the help of Pakistan.
A 31-year-old man who used his mother's credit card and drove her blood-stained car after she disappeared four days ago is now being questioned by the police.

Joseph Garcia was arrested Thursday on charges of larceny and unauthorized use of a vehicle in New York City, with police naming him as a person of interest in connection to his mother Joan Viau's disappearance.

Viau, 52, was reported missing by her boyfriend Nelson Monegro, and traces of blood were found in her car and her apartment, police said.

Joan Viau (left) was last seen heading to the hospital with her son Joseph Garcia (right) on Monday. He is being questioned for using her credit card after her disappearance

Her live-in boyfriend of 15 years told police it wasn't unusual for Viau (right with Garcia) to go missing for a day or two and didn't report her missing until Wednesday

Viau was last seen leaving her home on Carlisle Place in the Bronx, accompanied by Garcia, as she headed to an appointment at the local Veterans Affairs Hospital.

Viau's younger son Nicholas Duverge, 22, told CBS his mother has rheumatoid arthritis, adding: 'I just feel like somethings wrong.'

Her live-in boyfriend of 15 years told police it wasn't unusual for Viau to go missing for a day or two and didn't report her missing until Wednesday, after he found her red Toyota parked more than 10 blocks away from their apartment.

He told ABC: 'I saw the car over there. Its got a lot of blood in the back. But I dont know whats going on. I think something happened to her. Something happened, real bad.'

In addition to blood in the back seat, there was a bloody palm print on the ceiling of the car, CBS reported.

There was also blood on Viau's purse and cellphone, which police found back in her bedroom after Garcia returned to the apartment without his mother, CBS reported.

In addition to blood in the back seat, there was a bloody palm print on the ceiling of the car. Pictured, Garcia

There was also blood on Viau's purse and cellphone, which police found back in her bedroom after Garcia returned to the apartment (general view) without his mother, CBS reported

Surveillance cameras showed Garcia using his mother's credit card after she had gone missing, NYPD Chief of Detectives Robert Boyce said Friday, although he did not disclose where or what he bought with it.

There is also surveillance footage of Garcia leaving his mother's car, ABC reported.

The 31-year-old has been named a person of interest by police, and he has been arrested for larceny and the unauthorized use of a vehicle.

Both Garcia and Monegro have prior arrests to their name.

Viau, who is 5'7" and about 135 pounds, was last seen wearing a pink shirt and black pants.

Anyone with information should call CrimeStoppers at (800) 577-TIPS.
President Trump's Cabinet is worth a combined $14 billion, and they are catching flak in recent weeks for confessing an inability to keep track of their vast sums of wealth.

But private bankers who work with the ultra rich say that if they had a dollar for every time a client forgot about a million, they would be, well, almost as rich as their clients.

'We see it all the time,' with new clients, said Chris Walters of GenSpring Family Offices, SunTrust Bank Inc's branch for clients with more than $50 million in assets. 'It's not that they are surprised they own the asset. They just omitted it in the inventory.'

Steven Mnuchin, a former Goldman Sachs Group Inc partner who is Trump's pick to lead the U.S. Treasury Department, was grilled by members of the Senate last week for inadvertently failing to disclose more than $100 million in real estate.

On Tuesday, the nominee for head of the budget office, Mick Mulvaney, said he did not realize he needed to pay $15,000 in federal taxes for a nanny until scrutinizing his finances more closely for confirmation proceedings.

Oops I forgot about $100 million: Treasury pick Steve Mnuchin, who attended the inauguration with his fiancee Louise Linton, a Scottish-born actress, failed to declare real estate holdings. He apologized and said it was unintentional

Oops I forgot about $15,000 tax liability: Budget management pick Mick Mulvaney testified that he had gone over records and realized he owed $15,000 in federal taxes for a nanny

Trump himself said in an interview with Reuters last March that he does not pay much attention to his own investments in hedge funds and mutual funds.

'I have no idea how they are doing. I don't really care,' Trump said. 'I'm in a lot of things. I may be in a few funds. I have no idea if they are up or down. I just know that they have been very good over a period of time.'

Trump's lawyer Sheri Dillon has since said that he has liquidated all of his investments.

Senate leadership has delayed confirmation hearings for three other wealthy Trump nominees to allow more time for nominees to file disclosures and to accommodate schedules.

In response to questions about how people with millions or billions of dollars who hire experts to carefully tally their vast wealth could lose track of such big chunks of money, private bankers and family office managers said their clients simply live much more complicated financial lives than ordinary people.

About one-in-five people with more than $25 million in assets hire advisers to take care of tasks like paying daily bills, managing staff at multiple homes and keeping track of assets around the globe, according to a report by research firm Spectrem.

Advisers say their clients need this type of assistance because they work, socialize and travel too frequently to take care of mundane tasks themselves.

Eileen Foley, head of Bank of New York Mellon Corp's family office business, said that some clients want daily reports detailing every dollar that goes in and out of each account.

They also ask for daily reports on investments, tangible assets, properties and liabilities.

When a client is nominated for a position on the board of a public company or in government, this type of daily monitoring can help she said: 'It's not a fire drill.'

Signed it all away: Trump got rid of all his mutual funds and other investments. He had said he paid little attention to their day-to-day movements, which a banker said was typical of many of the super-rich

But even with that type of due diligence, clients often forget to mention assets held by multiple people, like limited partnerships. Those structures are harder for advisers to discover in financial statements, because they are often structured to keep ownership opaque.

Mnuchin, for instance, failed to disclose around $900,000 worth of artwork held by his children, according to media reports. Mnuchin did not respond to requests for comment. He also did not initially disclose homes in New York, Los Angeles and Mexico.

The complexity of a rich person's financial life usually builds over time as they acquire houses and collections and other belongings, advisers said.

In many cases, if a client has not been forced to detail all their assets or confirm that every domestic employee has insurance coverage, then they probably have not done it, said Bill Woodson, head of North American family offices at Citigroup Inc's private bank.
Students at a prestigious all-boys boarding school had to be treated by paramedics last week after taking a suspected bad batch of Ecstasy pills.

Staff at 37,350-a-year Harrow School in North West London were forced to call for paramedics after the three boys complained of feeling unwell.

The teenagers are believed to have purchased 20 Ecstasy tablets from a drug dealer in the nearby town centre before heading back to their house where they later took the pills before collapsing at around midnight.

Staff at 37,350-a-year Harrow School in North West London were forced to call for paramedics after the three boys complained of feeling unwell

A source said: 'The boys were all suspended by the head Jim Hawkins (pictured) and the board of governors were informed'

The sixth-form students, all aged about 17, have now been suspended from the school following the incident last Wednesday

One of the pupils at the school had to be rushed to Northwick Park Hospital while the other two were treated at the scene.

The sixth-form students, all aged about 17, have now been suspended from the school following the incident last Wednesday.

It is understood that one of the pupils has now left the 260 acre school.

A source told The Sun: The boys went into Harrow town centre last Wednesday night and bought 20 pills from a dealer.

They took some but they are thought to have been a bad batch of Ecstasy and they all became ill.

There was a major panic and staff and the matron were called.

They called an ambulance as there were serious concerns about one of the boys. He was taken to hospital where he was treated and initially detained for observation.

The school, where students are required to wear straw boater hats, has previously faced criticism for a drug culture at the school.

The boys were all suspended by the head Jim Hawkins and the board of governors were informed, the source added.

One of the boys has now left the school and a decision will be taken at some point on what to do with the other two boys.

The school takes a firm stance on drugs these days but will be loath to wreck a young boys education because of one mistake.

A London Ambulance Service spokesperson said: We were called to reports of an incident at an address on High Street, Harrow'

A London Ambulance Service spokesperson said: We were called to reports of an incident at an address on High Street, Harrow.

We sent an ambulance crew to the scene. We treated a patient and took them to hospital.

A spokeswoman for the school said: Our policy is to protect the privacy of our pupils and we do not comment on individuals.
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People on all sides of the political spectrum are gearing up for an impending apocalypse, if a Texas bunker manufacturer is to be believed.

Following the election of Donald Trump, the Doomsday Clock reached two-and-a-half minutes to midnight - the closest to an apocalypse since 1953.

And Rising S Company in Murchison, 75 miles southeast of Dallas, is offering willing and able patrons livable underground bunkers.

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Swimming in oblivion: The world may end, but at least 'Aristocrat' dwellers in the company's most expensive bunker can swim in their underground bunker

Chances of a Trumpocalypse? A game room in the 'Aristocrat' dwelling ensures that dwellers would not get bored

The gun range in the company's most expensive bunker is seen above. The 'Aristocrat' dwelling can hold 44 of your friends and family

A lucky strike: Patrons who survive an apocalypse can pass the time with a spot of bowling. Pictured: The bowling alley in the model 'Aristocrat' dwelling

Life down under: A Rising S Company shelter is placed underground. The manufacturer offers an $8.4m 'Aristocrat' dwelling that can sleep up to 44 people

The company offers shelters from a 96-square-foot abode for two to the aptly named 'Aristocrat' which can sleep 44 people and includes 10 individual master bedrooms.

The homes are designed to last forever, and are able to hold a year's worth of food per resident.

Employee Gary Lynch said that new orders come in daily for the bunkers, whose costs start at $39,500 and go as high as $8,350,000 for the Aristocrat - though that number can grow even higher as customers can add-on unlimited features.

People who fear an impending apocalypse are buying up underground bunkers from a Texas company. Pictured: A living room and kitchen model for one of the smaller underground shelters

Rising S Company in Murchison manufactures underground homes ranging from $39,500 for a 96-square-foot space ideal for two to multi-million dollar palaces. Pictured: A toilet with a view out towards a bedroom and living room

While much of the shelter is outfitted in steel, furnishings have rounded edges to decrease the chance of self-injury

Company employee Gary Lynch said the shelters are fully furnished as homes. The spaces can hold up to one year's worth of food per occupant. Pictured: A model kitchen for the 'Aristocrat' dwelling

You may get pale, but you can still be buff: The 'Aristocrat' dwelling comes complete with a workout room, so dwellers can be sure to stay fit

Sustainable: The 'Aristocrat' even has plans for a garden - which would prolong the year's food supply for each occupant

What used to be: The 'Aristocrat' comes complete with a screening room, where dwellers can watch films from pre-apocalypse happy days. they can then go for a game of bowling next door when the movie ends

You'll need a lot of popcorn to keep you going: The movie theater room is seen above in the 'Aristocrat' bunker

A dining area and kitchen in the huge 'Aristocrat' bunker is seen above. While much of the shelter is outfitted in steel, furnishings have rounded edges to decrease the chance of self-injury - due to delayed access to emergency care

What lies beneath: In the event of a global apocalypse that could annihilate even the most suburban of ideals, as pictured, willing and able patrons can secure for themselves an underground bunker home

The most basic one comes complete with a toilet, shower, bunk bed and basic kitchen - while the Aristocrat offers features including a sauna, swimming pool, game room with billiards and a media room.

While much of the shelter is outfitted in steel, furnishings have rounded edges to decrease the chance of self-injury - due to delayed access to emergency care.

Lynch said: 'People are asking for comfort, anything that makes them feel like they are inside a home instead of a bunker.

'They typically want features like more cabinet space, secure doors, hidden rooms, exercise rooms.'

And in the event that the shelter itself is compromised, an escape tunnel can be added for $16,000.

Lynch said: 'People are asking for comfort, anything that makes them feel like they are inside a home instead of a bunker.' This includes features such as exercise rooms and more cabinet space

Explore the possibilities: Larger bunkers can facilitate master bedrooms with queen-size beds

Flat-screen life: Master bedrooms can come equipped with large televisions, perhaps to watch the earth as it would have once been. Pictured: A model bedroom from 'The Aristocrat;

Economical: To maximize available space, buyers can also opt for bunk beds. But whatever option one chooses, as Lynch said, 'These are definitely not Cold War-era shelters'

Bunk beds increase walking space in the dwellings - though larger floor plans can accommodate master bedrooms with queen-size beds. Pictured: A model bedroom in 'The Aristocrat'

Lynch told the Star-Telegram: 'These are definitely not Cold War-era shelters.'

He added to the newspaper: 'It's picked up a little, you know, as Donald Trump has emerged as president.

'You know, there's some people that maybe even voted for Donald Trump that maybe worry that some of the riots are going to get out of hand and there's going to be social or civil unrest.

'You've got people that didn't vote for him that are thinking the same thing that, because he's president, maybe he's going to start a war.'

Lynch said that business picked up following Trump's election. He said: 'You know, there's some people that maybe even voted for Donald Trump that maybe worry that some of the riots are going to get out of hand.' Pictured: A shelter toilet

European: The slightly cramped bathroom nonetheless features all the essentials

Got food? The shelters come equipped with ample storage space. They are designed to hold one year's worth of food per occupant

Storage: There's enough space in some of the bunkers to keep a year's worth of food per person

A world below ground: In the event of a global apocalypse, bunker dwellers may have to create whole new lives for themselves. Lynch said: 'It is insurance that you would have a safe place to be in the event that there was a social or economic collapse, or war'

The old adage that it's better to be safe than sorry seems to be what's driving the company's customers.

Lynch said: 'Everyone is a prepper in one form or fashion.

'You prepare for auto accidents with full coverage insurance instead of just liability, homeowner's policies cover contents and personal injury protection, health insurance before it was mandated, savings accounts, et cetera.

'This is just another form of insurance. It is insurance that you would have a safe place to be in the event that there was a social or economic collapse, or a war.'
Donald Trump is 100 per cent behind Nato, Theresa May declared last night.

After their first talks in the White House, the Prime Minister said the US and the UK were united in their 'unshakeable commitment' to the alliance.

Both leaders recognise Nato as the 'bulwark of our collective defence', she said during a joint press conference.

Mr Trump said a 'free and independent Britain is a blessing to the world' in an enthusiastic welcome for Brexit

But the pair were set for a collision course on how to handle Vladimir Putin after President Trump said he hoped to have a 'fantastic' relationship with the Russian leader.

As Mrs May said she strongly supported continuing sanctions against Russia, Mr Trump's team said lifting them was on the table.

Speaking about Nato, the Prime Minister said: 'Today we have reaffirmed our unshakeable commitment to this alliance. Mr President, I think you confirmed that you are 100 per cent behind Nato.'

Mr Trump's apparent commitment represents a significant victory for Mrs May.

Earlier this month the president caused alarm across Europe as he dismissed Nato as 'obsolete' and expressed a desire for warmer ties with Mr Putin. During his campaign he even suggested he could withdraw the US from the alliance if other members did not spend more money on defence.

Mrs May pledged to work to persuade other EU leaders to meet their Nato commitment of spending 2 per cent of national income on defence.

She added that they needed to make sure it is as equipped to fight terrorism and cyber warfare as it is conventional forms of war.

The pair were set for a collision course on how to handle Vladimir Putin after President Trump said he hoped to have a 'fantastic' relationship with the Russian leader

VICTORY FOR PM AS TRUMP SOFTENS STANCE ON TORTURE Donald Trump dropped his controversial threat to revive the use of torture yesterday, following a warning from Theresa May that it would force Britain to curb intelligence sharing. In a dramatic about-turn, the US President indicated he would not order secret service interrogators to use torture despite maintaining 'it works'. Speaking after his talks with the Prime Minister, Mr Trump said he would defer to his security advisers who are overwhelmingly opposed to the use of torture. Mr Trump sparked an angry backlash on Thursday when he spoke out in favour of waterboarding, saying the West had to 'fight fire with fire' in the war on terrorism. His comments sparked alarm in the British intelligence community, with sources warning rules banning intelligence sharing with states that use torture would limit vital co-operation with the US. But speaking alongside Mrs May at yesterday's press conference, Mr Trump said he was going to bow to the advice of US Defense Secretary General James 'Mad Dog' Mattis, who is opposed to torture. However, Ukip leader Paul Nuttall yesterday said he would 'probably be OK' with waterboarding if it saved lives. Advertisement

However, there were clear differences between the two leaders on Russia. In comments likely to alarm No 10, the President said of Mr Putin: 'I don't know the gentleman. I hope we have a fantastic relationship. That's possible and it's also possible that we won't. We will see what happens.'

He added that it would not be possible to see how the relationship worked out until later.

'I have had many times where I thought I would get along with people and I don't like them at all,' he said.

'And I have had some where I didn't think I was going to have much of a relationship and it turned out to be a great relationship.'

Mr Trump also said he hoped for a 'great relationship' with China.

Mrs May said the UK would not back down on Russian sanctions amid suggestions Mr Trump could agree to lift them during his phone call with president Putin today.

She said: 'As far as the UK is concerned on sanctions for Russia in relation to their activities in the Ukraine, we have been very clear that we want to see the Minsk agreement [aimed at resolving the conflict between Ukraine and pro-Russian rebels] fully implemented.

'We believe the sanctions should continue until we see that Minsk agreement fully implemented, and we've been continuing to argue that inside the European Union.'

The comments sparked fears an emboldened Russia could launch a full-scale invasion in the Ukraine or Baltic states

Mr Trump did not answer directly whether he would remove the measures. But yesterday his senior adviser said US sanctions against Moscow, and other issues, would be on the table during the call. Aide Kellyanne Conway said 'all of that is under consideration'.

Barack Obama's administration and the EU hit Moscow with sanctions for sending in troops and supporting pro-Russian rebels in Ukraine. Earlier this month Mr Trump suggested his administration could lift them in return for a nuclear arms deal  irrespective of whether Mr Putin withdrew troops from the Ukraine.

The comments sparked fears an emboldened Russia could launch a full-scale invasion in the Ukraine or Baltic states.

Responding to the possibility of sanctions being lifted, the former head of Nato, Anders Fogh Rasmussen, said: 'I would urge strong caution against reversing any sanctions on Russia without concrete concessions.

'Easing sanctions will only embolden Russia's aggression in the region, putting the security interests of Ukraine and the United States in jeopardy.'
The Pentagon has announced that Boeing Co has been awarded a $2.1billion US defense contract.

The contract will be for an order of 15 KC-46 aerial refueling aircraft, which will go to the United States Air Force.

It is the third low-rate initial production lot for the new tankers, and includes spare engines and wing air refueling pod kits in addition to the 15 aircraft.

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The contract will be for an order of 15 KC-46 aerial refueling aircraft (pictured), which will go to the United States Air Force

The aircraft is based off the Boeing 767 air-frame, according to the Wichita Eagle.

Boeing expects to manufacture 179 jets for the Air Force to replace KC-135 fleet, which is over 50 years old.

Deliveries will begin later this year.

In addition to aircraft fuel, the tankers can carry passengers, cargo, and patients, Boeing said.

'This award is great news for the joint Boeing-Air Force team and reinforces the need for this highly efficient and capable tanker aircraft,' said Boeing Vice President and program manager Mike Gibbons in a statement.

'Our Boeing industry team is hard at work building and testing KC-46 aircraft, and we look forward to first delivery.'

'Placing an order for another 15 aircraft is another important milestone for the KC-46 program,' Air Force program manager Colonel John Newberry said in a statement.

'I know the warfighter is excited about bringing this next generation capability into the inventory.'

The Pentagon has announced this order and the $2.1billion contract, which will supply new jets to the Untied States Air Force

Chief Executive of Boeing, Dennis Muilenburg, has previously welcomed Trump's social media presence and habit of engaging with US companies on Twitter.

He has praised the new President for targeting companies like his, saying that he is 'directly engaging' with corporate America, reported the Financial Times.

Muilenburg praised his social media strategy and economic plans including tax reform, saying that he was giving business a 'voice at the table'.

He said to the Financial Times: 'I give him a lot of credit for reaching out and directly engaging'.

These comments came after Boeing was one of several US companies directly mentioned in one of the President's twitter rampages. He complained that the cost of Boeing's Air Force One replacement was too high.
Jon Andrewes, 63, is on trial for fraud charges after falsely claiming he had a PhD to get top NHS jobs

A former chairman of two NHS trusts admitted yesterday that he had lied about his qualifications to get top jobs.

Jon Andrewes, 63, was described as a Walter Mitty character after it emerged that he falsely claimed that he held a PhD, allowing him to call himself Dr.

When NHS investigators took a closer look at his background, they found he had lied about his past before being appointed by health bosses, who made no effort to check his CV and references.

Andrewes appeared at Exeter Crown Court yesterday on charges of fraud and gaining pecuniary advantage.

The court heard he gained substantial amounts of money from roles he took using deliberate deception.

He chaired the Torbay NHS Care Trust for almost a decade, was a former chairman of the Royal Cornwall Hospital Trust, and earned almost 100,000 a year as chief executive of a hospice in Somerset. Last night a senior NHS source said: It took investigators a couple of days to discover the truth about Andrewes. Once they started looking at his claims closely everything started to unravel.

During one court appearance, the prosecutor called him a Walter Mitty. That is exactly what he was. It is amazing he managed to reach such top jobs built on a CV made up of lies.

It beggars belief that no due diligence was carried out when he was appointed to these NHS trust roles.

Andrewes pleaded guilty to dishonestly making a false representation over his qualifications to make a gain as chairman of Torbay NHS Care Trust in July 2007.

Andrewes pleaded quilty to dishonestly making a false representation over his qualifications to make a gain as chairman of Torbay NHS Care Trust in 2007 at Exeter Crown Court (pictured)

He admitted a second charge of false representation over his qualifications to make a gain as chairman of the Royal Cornwall Hospital Trust in Truro, Cornwall, in April 2015.

He also admitted making a financial gain for his role as chief executive of St Margarets Hospice in Taunton, Somerset, by deception in 2004. He pleaded not guilty to a fourth charge of having a false degree certificate from the University of London which he is accused of using in connection with a fraud.

Judge Geoffrey Mercer QC adjourned sentencing until a later date while prosecutors consider whether to allow the charge to lay on the file.

On CVs Andrewes claimed to have a management PhD from Heriot-Watt University in Scotland, as well as a first degree in PPE and an MBA with a financial specialism from Bristol University. All these claims are untrue.

He also claimed to have been a partner in a technology firm before retiring early.

Official documents show he worked as a social worker, probation officer and builder before using a fake CV to start out in healthcare in 2004.

A year after taking his job at the Royal Cornwall Hospital Trust in July 2015, he was interviewed about his past by NHS investigators. Within days he announced he was retiring early through ill health.

Andrewes was released on conditional bail until sentencing at Exeter Crown Court on March 1. He was told to surrender his passport and stay in the Devon area.

NHS Improvement, which employed him, said there were no concerns about him before he joined Royal Cornwall, and that it only checked qualifications directly relevant to the post. We dont check degrees but we do check references, including one from the last employer, a spokesman said.

The Department of Health refused to comment.
Germany yesterday paved the way for a trade war in the aftermath of Brexit by demanding that the EU quickly wraps up a dozen deals around the world.

In a sign that Europe's main economic power is concerned about the close ties between Theresa May and Donald Trump, it called on Brussels to begin a deal-making spree.

The timing of the intervention by Germany also highlights growing diplomatic tensions between Angela Merkel and the new US President as her officials issued a veiled criticism of his trade approach.

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The German chancellor is understood to be increasingly frustrated by her inability to engage or open up channels of communication with Mr Trump

Donald Trump and Theresa May walked hand in hand at the White House today as they hailed a resurgent Special Relationship - and he insisted Brexit would be 'wonderful'.

The President said he was 'honoured' by Mrs May's visit and that relations between the two long-standing allies had never been stronger as the leaders held a press conference at the White House.

He also signalled he had reassured Mrs May about America's commitment to NATO and pledged to continue the working relationship between the two countries.

The British Prime Minister also revealed that the President and First Lady have accepted an invitation from the Queen to make a state visit to the UK later this year with full pomp and ceremony.

Mr Trump said it was 'an honour' to have Mrs May in the White House and also said he was honoured to have the Churchill bust in place

Mr Trump and Mrs May were spotted holding hands at one point as they walked around the White House grounds

By contrast, the German chancellor is understood to be increasingly frustrated by her inability to engage or open up channels of communication with Mr Trump.

While Mrs May yesterday became the first foreign leader to meet Mr Trump in the White House, Miss Merkel will instead have a short phone call today.

Already falling behind in the polls ahead of the upcoming election, she is under pressure to make sure Britain and the US do not leave her country behind.

During a meeting of EU finance ministers in Brussels yesterday, German officials warned that the EU needed to act because of supposed threats posed by Brexit and Mr Trump's presidency.

A document circulated by finance minister Thomas Steffen urged other EU states quickly to tie up 12 free trade deals with countries including Japan, China, Australia and New Zealand.

While many of the discussions have been dragging on for years, Berlin is understood to want to bolster the EU's economic clout as Brexit negotiations are finalised by sealing the agreements.

In an apparent reference to Mr Trump's decision to rip up the landmark Trans-Pacific Partnership agreement, the document urged EU leaders to 'give a timely push against protectionism'.

During a meeting of EU finance ministers in Brussels yesterday, German officials warned that the EU needed to act because of supposed threats posed by Brexit and Mr Trump's presidency

A German diplomatic source said: 'We think it is important that the 27 [remaining member states after Brexit] stick together and back up our belief, which is in free trade.'

The official denied that the paper was targeted at the US.

EU officials this week warned the UK that it could not begin negotiating trade deals with other countries until after it agreed the terms of its 'divorce bill'.

Brussels chiefs suggested that advanced talks could breach the obligations under EU treaties.

But Chancellor Philip Hammond, who attended yesterday's meeting, insisted that the UK would 'abide by the rules'.

Meanwhile, one of the leading candidates to become France's new president yesterday accused Britain of becoming subservient to the US.

The Left-leaning Emmanuel Macron said: 'Britain lived in an equilibrium with Europe. But now it is becoming a vassal state, meaning it is becoming the junior partner of the United States.'

Adding to Merkel's misery were figures revealed yesterday showing as many Germans would vote for new Social Democrat (SPD) leader Martin Schulz as for conservative Angela Merkel in a direct vote for chancellor.

The Infratest dimap poll for ARD television, conducted on Wednesday, put both at 41 percent, with support for Merkel down two points from September and for Schulz up five points.

The SPD nominated former European Parliament president Schulz on Tuesday to run against Merkel in the September election after Sigmar Gabriel said he would stand aside to boost the party's chances.

Schulz will officially be appointed leader on Sunday.

The poll showed that Merkel's Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and its CSU Bavarian sister party would win 35 percent of the vote if it were held on Sunday, down two percentage points from the last poll.

The SPD would win 23 percent of the vote, an increase of three percentage points that the pollsters said was likely due to the news about Schulz.

The pro-environment Green party would win an unchanged nine percent of the vote, with the anti-immigrant Alternative for Germany (AfD) party capturing 14 percent of the vote, a drop of one percentage point from the previous poll.

The Left party would win eight percent of the vote, while the Free Democratic Party would win six percent, the poll showed.

Federal elections take place in September.
A Florida teacher was found not guilty of murder after shooting dead her ex-husband, who according to her attorney was acting out of control.

Cara Ryan, 47, walked free from the courthouse Friday in Clearwater. She had been charged with second-degree murder following the shooting death of her ex-husband, retired St Petersburg officer John Rush, in March 2015.

Rush, then 45, was a gambling addict with unpredictable behavior, Ryan's attorney told the jury according to the Tampa Bay Times. He and Ryan divorced in 2006 and kept an on-and-off relationship for years afterwards.

Moments before his death, Rush pinned Ryan down and threatened to kill her after his ex-wife received a text from someone else, Ryan's attorney Roger Futerman said. He also told the jury the former officer was having withdrawal syndrome from oxycodone.

Florida teacher Cara Ryan (pictured at an earlier court date), 47, was found not guilty of murder Friday after shooting dead her ex-husband, who was acting out of control

'She'd never seen him this out of control,' Futerman told the jury.

The estranged couple were married nine years before their divorce a decade ago. They had an on-and-off relationship after splitting up, but prosecutors said Rush ended it in 2015.

Investigators from the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office said after the shooting that Ryan had sent Rush an explicit text message and invited him over on the day of his death, the Tampa Bay Times previously wrote.

Rush became threatening while inside the apartment he once shared with Ryan, according to Futerman.

Ryan shot and killed her ex-husband, retired St Petersburg officer John Rush (pictured with her), in March 2015. Her attorney said he had threatened to kill her moments prior

The lawyer said Ryan received a text from someone she was dating, after which Rush pinned her down and said: 'I'm going to kill you. I'm going to kill him. I'm going to bust you open so no man can want you again.'

Rush left but burst back into the apartment moments later. At that point, Futerman said, Ryan closed her eyes and fired the shot. The attorney told jurors that Ryan acted to defend herself.

She used a .38-caliber pistol that Rush had given her several years prior.

Ryan walked free on Friday. She had previously faced a potential sentence of life in prison.

Jurors deliberated for two hours before finding Ryan not guilty.

'We never doubted her innocence, from moment one,' Futerman told the Tampa Bay Times. 'It was a very quick verdict. I think they made their minds up early on that, that this woman should never have been arrested.'
An 83-year-old man was critically wounded after shooting himself in the head in front of his wife's grave at a cemetery in Queens, New York.

The incident took place at St. John's Cemetery in Middle Village on Friday according to the New York Daily News.

Cemetery employees discovered the man lying next to his wife's grave.

Officials said that he had a .22 caliber pistol at his side.

Paramedics evacuate an 83-year-old man (above) from a Queens, New York, cemetery after he shot himself in the head as he was standing in front of his wife's grave

The man was rushed to Elmhurst Hospital Center in critical condition.

The identity of the man was not disclosed.

Cemetery workers said they were accustomed to seeing the man pay regular visits to the wife's grave.

The man was a frequent visitor to his wife's gravesite and was known to cemetery employees. Emergency workers investigate the scene of the apparent suicide attempt above

'Many of the employees at the cemetery know the man because he visits his late wife's grave often,' a spokesman for the Brooklyn/Queens Diocese, which runs the cemetery, said.

'We are saddened about what happened and are praying for him and his family.'
Organised crime in NSW is 'out of control' with drugs streaming in and gangs fighting bloody turf wars on the street.

Police chiefs admit they have lost the war on drugs as even huge seizures have no effect on the rampant trade raking in millions for crime kingpins.

The shocking extent of the state's crime problem was detailed in a NSW Crime Commission report claiming organised crime is 'at levels not seen previously'.

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Organised crime in NSW is 'out of control' with drugs streaming in and gangs fighting bloody turf wars on the street, leading to murders of gangsters like Pasquale Barbaro (pictured)

The damning report seen by the Daily Telegraph listed 607 high-level drug lords pushing meth, cocaine, MDMA and heroin in sophisticated international operations.

They included members of notorious bikie gangs like the Hells Angels, Nomads and Comancheros, Chinese gangs, and Middle Eastern crime families.

Senior law enforcement sources expressed dismay but not surprise at the findings and warned 'radical change' was needed to have any hope.

'We are not losing the war on drugs, we have lost it,' one told the newspaper.

Another said: 'There is no way of sugar-coating it. Organised crime in this state and the rest of the country is out of control and cannot be stopped without a radical change.'

Crime family boss Walid Ahmad was shot to death in broad daylight while he drank coffee in a shopping centre cafe

The report said drugs were cheaper than ever thanks to oversupply but demand was high enough to sell all of it to thousands of users.

Increased police efforts were seizing more drugs and arresting more gang members, but they were all low level 'foot soldiers' who were easily replaced.

'[Police efforts] have had little, if any, effect on the quantities of prohibited drugs available for consumption in Australia,' it said.

Part of the problem was that crime bosses would learn the ropes in Sydney, make contacts, and then disappear overseas as soon as police were on to them.

Former Hell's Angels bikie Wayne Schneider was murdered in Thailand in 2015

They included notorious bikies who operate out of Turkey after fleeing Australia.

Catching the big fish while they hide overseas was almost impossible, but even local members were harder to take down because they use encrypted phones.

The Telegraph said encrypted BlackBerry phones could be bought for $1,400 on the dark web, making surveillance useless.

The report said organised crime figures were making such 'obscene' amounts of money - millions a week - they could easily afford to buy weapons and hire hitmen to take out rivals.

Mafia figure Pasquale Barbaro was gunned down in an ambush in November

This led to a string of high-profile murders across Sydney over the past year - the only way top criminals were scratched from the Commission's list.

Mafia figure Pasquale Barbaro was gunned down in an ambush in November months after Walid Ahmad was shot to death in broad daylight while he drank coffee in a shopping centre cafe.

The year before, former Hell's Angels bikie Wayne Schneider was murdered in Thailand.

Ongoing gang wars are so volatile that 150 of the 607 kingpins were under 'active investigation' because of their dangerous and erratic tendencies.

Ongoing gang wars are so volatile that 150 of the 607 kingpins were under 'active investigation' because of their dangerous and erratic tendencies

The net effect of the drug trade's purple patch was that though crime was generally down in NSW, organised crime was picking up the slack.

'According to statistical reporting, mainstream crime has been slowly reduced over time however, the observed situation in relation to organised crime is considered to be the opposite,' the report said.

NSW Crime Commander, Assistant Commissioner Mark Jenkins, said police were doing everything they could, but organised crime would stay so long as users bought their drugs.

'While there is a demand for illicit drugs, there will be criminal groups willing to supply it. If no one wants to buy drugs, theyll have no business,' he said.
President Donald Trump played host to his first foreign dignitary at the White House on Friday, welcoming British Prime Minister Theresa May.

The two appeared to be fast friends as they were photographed spending the day together and then later giving a joint press conference, but according to a body language expert both parties were anxious about the events of the day.

Prime Minister May showed her 'psychological discomfort' with her facial expressions, while President Trump was clearly nervous judging by how frequently he spoke Joe Navarro tells DailyMail.com.

The two ended the day in sync with one another however, standing side-by-side for a press conference.

And Trump even had a chance to show what a gentleman he is by escorting May along the walkway from the Oval Office to their press conference on Friday, holding her hand so she would not slip on what is known to be slippery pavement said Navarro.

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Special relationship: President Donald Trump met with Prime Minister Theresa May on Friday

President Trump gave Prime Minister May a handshake that was much to powerful said Navarro

Meanwhile, Navarro said the pair likely held hands while walking from the Oval Office to the press conference so the Prime Minister would not lose her balance

After greeting Prime Minister May on Friday, President Trump took her to the Oval Office for a photo op, with the two posing on either side of the sculpture of Winston Churchill that the new commander-in-chief had moved into the room.

In that photo, May looked a bit tense, but Navarro explained that was likely because of the situation and number of people in the room with the two.

'Staged photographs are sometimes awkward,' explained Navarro.

'May's stiffness may have more to do with where to stand then and what to do as sh leans toward the sculpture.'

It was also during this posing that President trump began to start filling the silences with comments and conversation, in what Navarro believes could be a sign of nervousness.

'People tend to try and hide their nervousness with frequent talk and chatter,' explained Navarro.

He also pointed out that Trump had his button down on his coat at this moment, a far more formal look then he had during his actual inauguration one week prior.

For that entire day he wore his coat wide open, which Navarro said could suggest that President Trump views his meeting with the prime Minister as a mire important event than his swearing-in ceremony.

President Trump was clearly nervous judging by how frequently he spoke said body language expert Joe Navarro

Prime Minister May showed her 'psychological discomfort' with her facial expressions during the day

Once incient of this was when a when a BBC reporter asked a question about torture to President Trump

Then came the handshake between the two, for which President Trump looked to be applying far to much pressure.

'Those fingers seemed a little crushes,' said Navarro, referring to Prime Minister May's hand.

'Unfortunately, Americans are led to believe that a strong handshake is a way to assert power.'

Navarro, whose book What Every Body Is Saying is available now, then explained that the pressure applied during a handshake should always be equal on both sides.

'Grip should match grip. It should not be a finger cruncher,' said Navarro.

And then the two walked to their press conference, which allowed them to get a breath of fresh air and gave photographers the chance to catch the moment that President trump held Prime Minister May by the hand.

That was most likely to help her keep her balance as she walked in her heels said Navarro, though he also said: 'Hand holding is appropriate so long as both parties are agreeable.'

The two ended the day in sync with one another however, standing side-by-side for a press conference and showed their relationship was going 'smoothly'

President Trump was far more formal for his meeting with Prime Minister May than at his inauguration, taking the time to button his suit

Once the two took their podiums that looked like good friends said Navarro, who pointed out that they even looked identical in their manners and motions.

'Isopraxis. These are mirroring behaviors that say the two are getting along smoothly,' said Navarro.

That then changed however when a BBC reporter asked President Trump a question about his support of torture and calls to ban Muslims.

'After the reporter asks a tough question, that is not answered, notice how May's mouth distorts,' said Navarro.

'The left side of her mouth pulls toward the left. I haven't seen her do that before, that is her tell that shows that this is difficult for her and we know that from the distorted mouth pull.

'Facial distortions are caused by psychological discomfort or cognitive dissonance between what is said and what is felt.'

Prime Minister May said of the meeting: 'I have been listening to the president and the president has been listening to me. That's the point of having a conversation and a dialogue.'

She added: 'There will be times when we disagree and issues on which we disagree. The point of the special relationship is that we are able to have that open and frank discussion so we are able to make that clear when it happens.
Sir John Hurt, who won Oscar nominations for the Elephant Man and captured the hearts of millions for his roles in Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings, has died.

The star, one of Britain's most treasured actors, died aged 77 at his home in Norfolk after a long battle with pancreatic cancer, it was revealed today.

His widow, Anwen Hurt, today said it will be 'a strange world' with out the actor, whose death has prompted an outpouring of grief from the showbusiness industry, with director Mel Brooks and J K Rowling among those paying tribute.

Mrs Hurt added: 'John was the most sublime of actors and the most gentlemanly of gentlemen with the greatest of hearts and the most generosity of spirit. He touched all our lives with joy and magic and it will be a strange world without him.'

Sir John was well known for roles including Quentin Crisp in The Naked Civil Servant, the title role in The Elephant Man and wand merchant Mr Ollivander in the Harry Potter films.

Sir John Hurt, the two-time Oscar nominated star of the Elephant Man, has died, aged 77 after battling with cancer

The Derbyshire-born star has been an enigmatic and much-beloved presence on the screen for more than six decades. He is survived by his wife of 12 years Anwen Rees-Myers (pictured together at Wimbledon last year)

In July 2015 he received a knighthood (pictured left), and said he wished his parents had been alive to see him presented with the honor

Mel Brooks hailed him as a 'truly magnificent talent' while Harry Potter author JK Rowling called him 'immensely talented and deeply beloved'.

Hurt bounced back from pancreatic cancer in October 2015 and signed on to appear in a West End production of The Entertainer, only to pull out on the advice of his doctors after he was taken to the hospital with an intestinal complaint.

Despite revealing that he had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in the summer of 2015, Hurt was matter-of-fact about his mortality.

Speaking to the Radio Times, he said: 'I can't say I worry about mortality, but it's impossible to get to my age and not have a little contemplation of it.

'We're all just passing time, and occupy our chair very briefly,' he said.

In the autumn of 2015, Hurt announced he was in remission and vowed to continue working.

Despite the all-clear, Sir John continued to endure periods of ill health. He suffered intestinal complaints and was forced to withdraw from a West End production of The Entertainer last July.

Hurt, whose death was confirmed by his agent Charles McDonald on Saturday, is survived by wife Anwen Rees-Myers, and sons, Alexander and Nick, from his third marriage with Jo Dalton.

He died on Wednesday, January 25, but had been working on a number of films set for release this year.

In one, That Good Night, he plays a once-famous writer who is terminally ill, perhaps channelling his own experiences.

He is also due to star in a film called Darkest Hour, about the early days of the Second World War. Hurt was due to play Neville Chamberlain alongside Gary Oldman as Winston Churchill, although the movie has not yet finished filming.

His acting aspirations were almost shattered by his headmaster as a young boy, but he plucked up the courage and successfully auditioned for the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London

The English actor, born in Derbyshire in 1940, became a critical and commercial success in films like Midnight Express, Alien and Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy.

The son of a vicar and an engineer, Hurt spent what he described as a lonely childhood at an Anglo-Catholic prep school before he enrolled at a boarding school in Lincoln.

His acting aspirations were almost shattered forever by his headmaster's insistence that he did not stand a chance in the profession.

He left school to go to art college but dropped out, impoverished and living in a dismal basement flat.

He finally plucked up enough courage to apply for a scholarship and auditioned successfully for the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, although he later recalled being so hungry he could hardly deliver his lines.

Hurt played a wide range of characters over the course of 60 years, from a mad Roman emperor to a pimp on the road to stardom; a circus freak, to a heroin-addicted prisoner.

He was best-known for his portrayals of the famously misunderstood and he took an instinctive approach to his craft, believing that method acting was for people with no imagination.

Hurt once told the British film critic Geoff Andrew: 'The only way I can describe it is that I put everything I can into the mulberry of my mind and hope that it is going to ferment and make a decent wine.

'How that process happens, I'm sorry to tell you I can't describe.'

Hurt was born in Chesterfield in 1940. The son of a vicar, Hurt went on to play a wide range of c haracters and was best-known for his portrayals of the famously misunderstood

HURT'S FINAL ROLE AS AN AGING MAN BATTLING TERMINAL ILLNESS The Good Night, starring John Hurt, will be released this year John Hurt will give the world a glimpse of his own experience battling terminal illness in one of his final roles, set for release after his death. In The Good Night, Hurt plays a once-famous screen-writer in his seventies who is desperate to fix his relationship with his son and make sure he is not a burden to his wife before he dies. The character knows his condition is terminal and Hurt will bring a little of his own experience to the role after being diagnosed with cancer in June 2015. Afterwards, he told the Radio Times: 'I can't say I worry about mortality, but it's impossible to get to my age and not have a little contemplation of it.' He beat the disease but was left with health problems, although he continued to work and has a number of projects set for release even after his death. Hurt had been filming for movie the Darkest Hour, in which he was to play the Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain in the early days of World War Two. The all-star cast also included Gary Oldman as Churchill, Kirstin Scott Thomas as Churchill's wife Clementine and Lily James as Elizabeth Nell. The big-budget British movie is still being filmed, it is believed, so it is not yet known if Hurt will appear or if they will have to find someone to replace him. In 2000 classic movie Gladiator, Oliver Reed died unexpectedly of a heart attack during filming so the filmmakers used the footage already shot and a few scenes featured a CGI version of the star. All the other projects Hurt had been working on were already filmed and are set for release next year, including My Name Is Lenny, a biopic on one of Britain's most notorious bare-knuckle boxers, Lenny McLean. Hurt plays Leslie Salmon after stepping in from the now retired Michael Gambon as the character of Leslie Salmon in the movie set for release in February and starring real-life prize fighter Michael Bisping. Hurt will also star in Damascus Cover, alongside Jonathan Rhys Meyers, a movie about an undercover mission in Syria, set for release at some point this year. Gary Oldman as Churchill in the upcoming movie Darkest Hour, in which Jurt was set to play Neville Chamberlain Advertisement

Hurt first rose to fame in A Man For All Seasons in 1966 and later clinched a BAFTA for best supporting actor, along with an Oscar nomination, for playing a drug addict in Midnight Express.

He picked up yet another BAFTA just two years later in 1980 - this time as a leading actor in David Lynch's Elephant Man.

He also received his second Oscar nomination for the performance, which many extolled as Hurt's best, but was beaten to the award by Robert Di Nero with his role in Raging Bull.

The actor also enjoyed immense commercial success, playing Kane in the 1979 blockbuster Alien. The iconic scene in which an alien bursts from his chest won the actor a place in film history.

He later reprised the role in Mel Brooks' parody Spaceballs, and fans went on to compile clips of Hurt's famous last scenes, since the actor gained a reputation for taking on characters who meet their tragic ends.

The star later found a new generation of fans by taking on the role of Garrick Ollivander in the Harry Potter franchise.

Hurt was also known for his work as a voice actor and took his talents to the small screen, where he played a prominent role in Doctor Who, The Naked Civil Servant, and I, Claudius.

Hurt most recently starred in the Oscar-nominated biopic of President John F. Kennedy's widow, Jackie, which is currently showing in cinemas. The film's director Pablo Larrain issued a statement saying: 'John was invincible. Unflinching. Eternal.'

Hurt most recently starred in the Oscar-nominated biopic of President John F. Kennedy's widow, Jackie, which is currently showing in cinemas (above)

SIR JOHN HURT'S GOLDEN CAREER Sir John Hurt was a multi-award winning actor in an illustrious six-decade career Sir John Hurt was a multi-award winning actor in an illustrious six-decade career. He won a Golden Globe and four BAFTA Awards and was also nominated for two Oscars. The Academy Awards nominations were for Best Actor in a Leading Role in The Elephant Man in 1981 and Best Actor in a Supporting Role for his performance in Midnight Express in 1979. He won a Golden Globe in the same category for Midnight Express, where he played the character Max. His acting talents in The Elephant Man, where he plays Londoner John Merrick, saw him nominated for a Golden Globe in the US in the Best Actor in a Motion Picture - Drama category. At the BAFTAs, he won Best Actor in 1976 and 1981 for The Naked Civil Servant and The Elephant Man. He also earned Best Supporting Actor for Midnight Express in 1979 and Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema in 2012. Hurt was nominated for Best Actor in 2010 for An Englishman in New York and Best Supporting Actor in 10 Rillington Place in 1972 and Alien in 1979. Advertisement

In his earlier years, Hurt was notorious for his wild lifestyle and hell-raising antics off-screen.

He famously hurled himself in a drunken rage at a pack of paparazzi, and his picture was often splashed across newspapers.

The actor was married four times but his longest relationship was to French model Marie-Lise Volpeliere-Pierrot, who he met after his first marriage to Annette Robertson.

The pair were together for 16 years but she died in a tragic accident, flung from her horse when they were out riding in Oxford. Hurt saw her hit the ground, after which she fell into a coma and died later that day.

Afterwards, he continued a life of hedonism that earned him a reputation as a hard-partying Hollywood bad boy, although his exciting lifestyle did not solve his problems. He later described himself as 'a distressed person looking for something he couldn't find'.

Sir John once boasted that he drank up to seven bottles of wine a night but he mellowed with age and Hurt, who once described his career as not bad 'for an old drunk', received a string of honors towards the end of his six decade-long career.

He received a lifetime achievement award at the BAFTA awards in 2012, and was knighted by the Queen at Windsor Castle in 2015.

On Saturday, tributes poured in for one of Britain's most formidable and successful actors.

Director Mel Brooks tweeted: 'It was terribly sad today to learn of John Hurt's passing. He was a truly magnificent talent.

'No one could have played The Elephant Man more memorably. He carried that film into cinematic immortality. He will be sorely missed,' he added.

Rowling wrote: 'So very sad to hear that the immensely talented and deeply beloved John Hurt has died. My thoughts are with his family and friends.'

Elijah Wood, who played Frodo Baggins in the Lord of the Rings trilogy, said: 'It was such an honor to have watched you work, sir.'

Bonnie Wright, who played Ginny Weasley in the Harry Potter films, wrote: 'John Hurt. What an acting legend. Rest in peace dear Sir. Wand shopping won't be the same without you.'

Comedian Stephen Fry called the news of Hurt's passing 'terrible news', and wrote: 'We've lost #JohnHurt as great on the stage, small screen and big. A great man & great friend of Norfolk & NCFC', the Norwich City Football Club.

Luke Evans, who worked with Hurt in The Immortals, wrote: 'We shared a trailer and would sit in our loincloths and would tell me story after story of the good old (crazy!) times of film making. I was so new to the business but he spoke to me like and equal, with a kindness and a dignity only a man of his generation possessed. RIP Mr Hurt and thank you for that special memory.'

On Saturday, tributes poured in for one of Britain's most formidable and successful actors

HURT TURNED TO ALCOHOL AFTER FIANCEE DIED IN TRAGIC FALL Treasured actor Sir John Hurt was once a world-famous hell-raiser when his life descended into hedonism and alcohol after the tragic death of his fiancee. The actor, who once boasted that he drank up to seven bottles of wine a night, was famous for partying with other Hollywood bad boys Oliver Reed and Peter O'Toole. And although he was still an acclaimed actor, landing some of the biggest roles in the industry, he later said that those 'wild' days were a response to the tragedy. Hurt has had four marriages and a number of colourful relationships, but his longest was with French model Marie-Lise Volpeliere-Pierrot, who died in 1983 in a horse-riding accident Hurt has had four marriages and a number of colourful relationships, but his longest was with French model Marie-Lise Volpeliere-Pierrot, who died in 1983 in a horse-riding accident The pair were to be married but tragedy struck when her horse bolted as they were out riding together in Oxford, flinging her into the road. She landed on her head and fell into a coma, dying that day in 1983. They had been together for 17 years. Speaking of the days that followed, he later said: 'Drink doesn't make you feel better. It just exacerbates the mood you are in.' His wild drinking earned him a reputation as a party animal, but he described it as 'a distressed person looking for something he couldn't find'. And though he has always boasted that he has lived his life in public and has 'never hidden behind closed doors', he has never spoken of the actual tragedy. The year after it happened, Hurt married an old friend, American actress Donna Peacock, at a local Register Office, in September 1984. The year after it happened, Hurt married an old friend, American actress Donna Peacock, at a local Register Office, in September 1984 (pictured) It was actually his second marriage after wedding actress Annette Robertson in 1962, which lasted just two years before the pair got divorced. Hurt and Donna Peacock moved to Kenya but divorced in January 1990, just days before he married his third wife American production assistant Joan Dalton. They had met on the set of Scandal and had two sons, Alexander 'Sasha' John Vincent Hurt and Nick Hurt, but divorced in 1996. The marriage was followed by a seven-year relationship with Dublin-born presenter and writer Sarah Owens. And despite his partying and drinking in the previous decades, he was still one of the biggest names in Hollywood, responsible for some of its most acclaimed performances. He had appeared in 1984, a movie about George Orwell's book, the year after the death of his fiancee, which was praised by the critics. But living his life so publicly and those days of heavy drinking have helped him with such an illustrious career, he believes. He married his third wife American production assistant Joan Dalton after they met on the set of his movie Scandal. They had two children together 'If I have gone over the top sometimes, it has been visible. But it was not a way of life. Otherwise I wouldn't have the CV I've got, would I?' he has previously said. But he turned his life around later on in life, and married his current wife ten years ago. He married his third wife American production assistant Joan Dalton after they met on the set of his movie Scandal. They had two children together John Hurt in Scandal, a movie released in 1989. He divorced Donna Peacock in January 1990, the same month in which he married Joan Dalton Since then, his reputation in the eyes of the public has changed dramatically, from the 1970s Hollywood bad boy to the national treasure who featured in Harry Potter. But the industry has also changed immeasurably. In 2012, years after totally giving up drinking, he said: ' Actors don't drink so much now. There were eight of us sitting around the other night and only one was drinking wine.' Talking about why he stopping drink, John continued: 'It wasn't serving me, and the climate has changed.' Speaking to the Radio Times in 2015, he added: 'We've become obsessed with the dangers of alcohol  you get newspaper articles that are entirely over the top. 'There's political correctness as well. I wonder who instigated that? Where does it come from, and who says what is or is not politically correct?' Hurt first married actress Annette Robertson, pictured in a play with David Hemmings, in 1962 but it only lasted two years Advertisement

British actor Alfred Molina said Sir John was 'a gloriously talented actor, one of the best, of this or any era.'

Another British film star, Richard E Grant, wrote on Twitter: 'So so sad to have lost such an extraordinary talent and friend. Sir John Hurt. R. I. P.'

Queen guitarist Dr Brian May also paid tribute, writing: 'What a fabulous actor, splendid voice and venerable human being. How sad to lose him. RIP John Hurt.'

Childline founder and president Dame Esther Rantzen hailed Sir John, who was a fundraiser for the children's charity, saying he had an 'extraordinary career'.

Dame Esther said she approached him after a London theatre performance, some 30 to 40 years after first meeting him when he was a young actor, and he 'immediately agreed' to help the organisation.

She said: 'He understood it was a unique way for children to seek help. There was something in his own past which made him connect with vulnerable children - I believe it happened when he was in school.

'From then on he never turned us down, he spoke at events for us, telling stories of some of the children we had helped, and took part in carol services for us.

'Because he was such a great artist, I remember writing for him and he gave it so much more strength because of the way he told it. He will be a great loss to the children in this country.'

Actress Clare Higgins, who worked with Sir John on Doctor Who, said he was 'the perfect actor' and a 'beautiful gentleman'.

Speaking on BBC Breakfast she said he was acknowledged by all actors as one of the 'greatest'.

'He was simply the most brilliant complete actor. He gave himself to his role.

'John had a real tenderness and gentleness which is quite rare in a male actor.'

She revealed she had spent three days with Sir John at a Doctor Who convention in Los Angeles last year in one of his last public appearances.

'What was so touching and lovely about John was that this wasn't an actor talking to fans, this was a person talking to a person. It was very moving and lovely to watch.'

Chris Evans, who starred in the 2013 film Snowpiercer with Hurt, wrote: 'John Hurt was one of the most powerful, giving and effortlessly real actors I've ever worked with. Remarkable human being. U will be missed.'

Oscar-winning American actress Octavia Spencer worked alongside the veteran actor on post-apocalyptic thriller Snowpiercer and recalled similar memories of his storytelling.

She wrote on Instagram: 'John Hurt was the craft at its finest. It was an honour and a great joy to work with him on Snowpiercer.

'To wile the time away on set, Luca Pasqualino Jamie Bell Tilda Swinton and I would play a crazy card game called s***head. It's English... and yes it's real.

'Anyway, though John and Chris Evans would never play, we'd all convene at our table in base camp and listen to John recount tales of his varied sets throughout the years.

British actor Luke Evans, who starred alongside Hurt on The Immortals, paid tribute to the star

Queen guitarist Brian May praised him for a 'splendid voice' and being a 'venerable human being'

David Morrissey called him a 'generous, funny and intelligent man', paying tribute on Twitter

'I was in awe of him because he always looked regal even though we played unwashed rebels in a post apocalyptic film. I can't explain it.

'Maybe it was the way he held his cigarette, or that English accent. Or, perhaps the kindness he showed us all allowed his nobility to radiate even beneath the layers of grimey makeup and tattered clothes. He was such an interesting man! Miss you, John.'

Walking Dead actor David Morrissey tweeted: 'I loved John Hurt. I worked with him many times. A generous, funny and intelligent man. Brilliant actor. Great storyteller. Going to miss him.'

Actor John Barrowman posted: 'Sir John Hurt showed us that your career can be diverse as the characters you play. So many wonderful performances.'

Richard E Grant wrote: 'So so sad to have lost such an extraordinary talent and friend. Sir John Hurt. R. I. P.'

Film-maker Kevin Smith tweeted: 'Rest in Peace to the actor genius JohnHurt. Most folks know him from ALIEN but I loved him as Sir Richard Rich from A Man for All Seasons.'

Stephen Colbert, a comedian, writer and producer, highlighted the actor's performance as Richard Rich in A Man for All Seasons, calling it 'a paragon of heartbreaking human weakness & model for many characters'.

Actress Jamie Lee Curtis wrote: 'John Hurt. Midnight Express. Nothing better. Ever.'

Keifer Sutherland called Hurt 'a deer friend' and extended his 'deepest sympathies to John Hurt's family, friends and fans'.

Hurt was Joseph Merrick in the Elephant Man and received his second Oscar nomination for his performance, which many extolled as Hurt's best

FROM ALIEN AND THE ELEPHANT MAN TO HARRY POTTER: JOHN HURT'S GENRE-SPANNING ROLES Hurt's turn as John Merrick in The Elephant Man saw him nominated for the biggest prize in Hollywood, an Academy Award Having started off his screen career in BBC police favourite Z Cars back in the sixties in a one-off role, John Hurt soon found his star rising and in 1966 he gained acclaim for his turn in A Man For All Season, playing Rich. Starring alongside the likes of Orsen Welles and Robert Shaw in the period piece about Thomas Moore, Hurt made waves in Hollywood. A stream of iconic roles soon fell into the British star's including his iconic turn in Ridley Scott's 1979 horror classic, Alien, in which Hurt famously died on-screen as an alien 'chestburster' erupted from his sternum  a moment which has gone down in cinematic history. His turn as John Merrick in The Elephant Man the following year saw him nominated for the biggest prize in Hollywood, an Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role. Since then the Derbyshire-born actor remained an enigmatic and much-beloved presence on the screen. Other notable roles for the actor included the lead role in the big screen adaption of George Orwell's 1984 opposite Richard Burton. A stream of iconic roles soon fell into the British star's including his iconic turn in Ridley Scott's 1979 horror classic, Alien In more recent years the actor has made star turns in the likes of the blockbuster Harry Potter series, playing the wandmaker Ollivander from 2001-2011. He also starred in the Oscar-nominated Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy in 2011 alongside Gary Oldman, and even had a turn in the BBC's revamped Doctor Who as the haunted 'War Doctor' in 2013. He was still working up to his death, having been attached to World War II drama Darkest Hour, which saw him playing besieged PM Neville Chamberlain alongside Gary Oldman as Winston Churchill and Ben Mendelsohn as King George VI. Advertisement

Sharon Stone said: 'God speed to John Hurt, a legendary actor and good human being.'

Comic actor David Schneider wrote: 'Sad re John Hurt. I was in a film with him and he was so mesmerising I kept forgetting to act and just watched him. A genius & a lovely man.'

Hurt's private life was at times scarred by disaster. He was married a total of four times.

He married actress Annette Robertson at the age of 22, and the two divorced in the 1960s.

In 1968 he started a relationship with Marie Lise Volpeliere-Porrot, who he called 'love of his life'. After 15 years together, she was killed in a riding accident.

One year after her death, Hurt married US actress Donna Peacock. The marriage only lasted four years, although the two remained good friends.

He married his third wife Jo Dalton in 1990 and they had two sons. But again the marriage ended in divorce in 1995.

Ten years later he wed Anwen Rees-Myers, who has remained at his side for the last decade.
Wearing polished shoes and sharply pressed grey trousers, the 52-year-old Nigerian is desperate to stay in this country and work as a security guard. He speaks perfect English and his younger girlfriend is a British citizen.

I met him, one of countless foreigners fighting to remain in the UK, a week ago at Britains busiest asylum and immigration appeals centre, Taylor House in Central London.

He has been living in the UK since 2002 and is challenging  for the third time  Home Office attempts to send him back to Africa. Shaking his head, he told me: This system is crazy.

Zenab H. from Syria waits for an appeal hearing to begin in a hearing room at the Higher Administrative Court. (L-R) Translator Kameran Bisarani, Zenab, and Lawyer Kirsten Hanke

Although the Nigerian, whom we will call Patrick, is happy to speak openly about the case and to be identified, he is prevented from doing so. This is because, towards the end of a two-hour hearing, the judge suddenly announced that details of the case cant be reported in the Press. The mans name, where he lives, and any other snippet that might identify him or his loved ones cant be made public.

Why? According to the female judge, Patricks girlfriends six-year-old son, who has been mentioned in the hearing, must be protected.

Secrecy rules in asylum and immigration appeals (mostly inspired by Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights  the right to respect for private and family life  and ardently adhered to in the UK) stipulate that, as a child, his identity must be kept secret.

At first glance, this might seem a sensible decision to safeguard the youngster. But the boy is not Patricks biological son and doesnt have his surname. The couple have an on-off relationship and have rarely lived together (according to evidence from Home Office officials, who insist Patrick should leave this country).

In truth, there is little to link him directly to the child, although the judge was deciding  bizarrely  whether Patricks relationship with the girlfriend and her son meant his rights to a family life would be breached if he was sent home.

Welcome to the crazy  to use the Patricks own description  world of Britains secretive courts.

For years, the Mail has campaigned against an increasing and insidious assault on open justice. We have highlighted controversial decisions made about children and pensioners in the equally shadowy Family Court and Court of Protection.

Of course, anonymity is important to protect people from potential harm or for reasons of national security, but the creeping number of anonymised hearings in our overwhelmed asylum and immigration appeals system is a scandal. For without transparency, the truth about who is being let into this country and why is hidden from the public.

Automatic anonymity is now given in all asylum-seekers appeals and in other immigration appeals where asylum is not a factor but involves request to remain on human rights grounds, can simply download a form from a government website requesting secrecy

I was told recently by a whistle-blower who works at Taylor House that secrecy is becoming the norm.

Even foreigners with blatantly bogus stories, criminal records, or pose a potential danger to society can stay under the radar.

Automatic anonymity is now given in all asylum-seekers appeals. In other immigration cases, where asylum is not a factor, a migrant can simply download a form from a government website requesting anonymity.

The result is that thousands of foreigners appealing to remain in this country are actively encouraged to do so secretly. 

Two immigration lawyers at Taylor House confirmed that it was now common practice for the Home Office not to challenge anonymity requests.

Even those, like Patrick, who dont ask for privacy often find the judge steps in at the first sight of the press and orders it at a hearing anyway.

Not only are identities never known, but the public is never told the judges rulings  which are issued privately a few weeks after the hearing ends.

Disturbingly, the Ministry of Justice admitted this week that it does not publish how many non-asylum immigration appeals are heard in this secretive way.

However, official figures last month showed that almost 63,000 foreigners were awaiting appeals  an increase of 20 per cent on a year ago.

More specifically, the number of asylum-seekers claiming refuge in Britain because of their sexuality has rocketed by 450 per cent in five years. These include 1,115 people who argue that being lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender means they would face discrimination if they returned to their home country. Most were from Pakistan but they also came from Jamaica, Nigeria and Ghana.

Under the current rules, if any asylum-seeker starts an appeal against a Home Office decision to remove them, their file will immediately be marked protection appeal and their details will be anonymised on all published paperwork and at hearings.

This secrecy covers all types of asylum-seeker: those who claim to have escaped slavery; those under 18 (although there is no testing in the UK to prove their age), or anyone who argues that they risk harm if their identities are made public.

Under the current rules, if any asylum-seeker starts an appeal against a Home Office decision to remove them, their file will immediately be marked protection appeal and their details will be anonymised on all published paperwork and at hearings

Even the names of relatives, friends or acquaintances connected with their case must be kept secret.

At Taylor House last week, a judge heard the case of a 19-year-old Afghans appeal. The youth claimed he risks attack by the Taliban if he returns home.

He argued that he was also at risk because he ran a TV and video shop, which was illegal in Afghanistan at the time he left in 2011.

Initially, he applied for asylum when his status as a child refugee expired in June 2015.

In evidence, the Home Office challenged the credibility of his account, saying there was no reason he could not live in the Afghan capital, Kabul, where he would not be recognised. Yet at the end of the hearing, and following an inquiry from the Mail, Judge John McMahan imposed an anonymity order, saying: As this is an asylum case, it should already have been under anonymity directions . . . he is an asylum-seeker and it is for his protection.

This closed-doors culture betrays the principle that justice must not only be done but be seen to be done. It certainly runs counter to pledges from senior judges.

Recently, the Supreme Court Justice Lord Reed said that as most people get their information about court proceedings through the media, it follows that the principle of open justice is inextricably linked to the freedom of the media to report on them.

Sadly, that was not the case when we monitored asylum appeals over a two-day period.

In Bradford, 31 appellants  from South Asia, North Africa and Iran  were granted anonymity. In the same 48 hours in Manchester, the number was 35. Several cases there involved individuals from the Middle East, from where it is feared that ISIS terrorists, posing as asylum-seekers, are travelling to Britain.

Similarly, at Taylor House over three days the names of 71 asylum-seekers were kept secret. (Almost routinely, when the Mail arrived at a hearing, the judges imposed anonymity orders on immigration cases as well.)

Anyone who breaks these secrecy orders, be they journalists, lawyers or members of the public, faces jail for contempt of court. Even the appellants, their relatives and friends are not allowed to talk about their cases outside the courthouse.

One man who had five children claimed to be gay

Unsurprisingly, these secrecy orders and the willingness of judges to grant them has angered MPs.

Sir Julian Brazier, MP for Canterbury, said: This is a clear example of European human rights laws creating a change in part of our justice system. Secretive hearings are completely contrary to this countrys long-held principles of open justice.

And fellow Tory Philip Davies (Shipley, Yorkshire) agreed: [It] builds up resentment among British people by creating suspicion that those appealing to live here are trying to stop someone digging up something that undermines their case.

Even those dealing daily with the hearings are critical.

One Home Office official at Taylor House told us the system is widely exploited. He pointed out a recent rise in the number of people claiming to be gay.

This, he said, was because sexuality is hard to prove, as European human rights laws prohibit intimate questioning of asylum-seekers on such matters. Last year the Home Office issued a 40-page directive warning its staff.

The official said: The British judicial system is being laughed at. This country is an easy place to come and say the right thing  for instance, that you are gay and from a homophobic nation  so you get to remain here.

He cited instances of asylum-seekers, about to be deported on other grounds, playing what he called the gay card at the last minute.

I even had one case where a guy with five children claimed to be gay and told the judge he only ever had sex with a woman those five times.

While investigating appeal cases at Taylor House, we came across a 17-year-old Algerian boy who claimed that if he was sent home he would be killed.

He said that on a visit to Algiers last year to retrieve his identity documents, he was attacked by a family member who accused him of trying to steal part of the family inheritance.

The evidence was being heard in open court until a Mail reporter entered the room. An application was immediately made by the boys solicitor for an anonymity order. This was duly granted by the judge, forbidding the Press from disclosing any meaningful details about his seemingly rather imaginative story.

So the wheels of secret justice roll on.

Anyone who breaks these secrecy orders, be they journalists, lawyers or members of the public, faces jail for contempt of court

Our reporters watched as a 27-year-old Ethiopian woman claimed asylum, citing discrimination back home because she was a member of the Oroma tribe (who make up nearly half the countrys 100 million population, and are opposed to the government).

However, the hearing was told that she failed to give examples of the type of persecution her people had suffered, and couldnt understand her native language.

Meanwhile, a Bengali-speaker from Bangladesh sought asylum, claiming he was being persecuted by his government because of his affiliation with a student political group, the Bangladesh Chhatra League. He had been arrested twice, but was released the second time after just two days to resume his life.

Under the rules, he was given complete anonymity.

Another immigrant, claiming to be 19, argued he should not be sent back to Afghanistan because he was involved in a land ownership dispute with an uncle.

She couldn't understand her 'native' language

He had given two names and three dates of birth when he first tried to claim asylum in Austria (which refused him entry, saying he was an adult) before arriving in Britain illegally in the back of a lorry in 2013. A secrecy order was imposed by the judge on the basis of the applicants age, health issues and need for protection.

His lawyers claimed he was suffering from post-stress and psychological problems because of a lengthy delay over his hearing.

Challenging his story, Gabrielle McAvock, of the Home Office, said UK college reports showed he was a hard-working, conscientious and calm student with a supportive family back in Afghanistan.

Yet another Afghan asylum-seeker was accused of faking a relationship with a Polish woman and pretending to be the father of her baby son so he would stay in the UK.

In 2009, when he claimed to be an unaccompanied child of 17, he was allowed to remain. He is now apparently 23, and exceptionally bald for his age. Suspicions about his story were raised because he was unable to provide the babys birth certificate (which would have named him as the father).

But because his case is secret, we cannot tell you who he is or make the slightest attempt to investigate whether what he says is true.

Amid this bedlam, I watched as Patrick, from Nigeria, greeted his girlfriends son when the lad ran into his arms during a break in his hearing. Patrick says he loves the boy as his own child. If proof were needed that this is a real relationship, that cuddle appeared to be it.

Patrick told me he cant work in the UK because he is here illegally. He said he despaired that his appeal had been going on for years and he isnt allowed to earn a living.

Among what appear to be hundreds of asylum-seekers and immigrants at the hearings with dubious claims to stay in Britain, his was probably a genuine appeal.

But we are not allowed to report the full details to let you, the reader, make up your own mind.
One Nation has lost its third Queensland candidate in a month after party leader Pauline Hanson dumped Peter Rogers.

The north Queensland candidate's website posted a conspiracy-laden article alleging the Port Arthur massacre and the death of a Syrian toddler who drowned at sea were fabrications.

Mr Rogers was dumped as the party's candidate for the seat of Mulgrave on Friday night, two weeks after the controversial post came to light.

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Mr Rogers (pictured) was dumped as the party's candidate for the seat of Mulgrave on Friday night, two weeks after the controversial post came to light

He claims the post was made by a friend who was running his website without his knowledge hit out at Ms Hanson over the decision to axe him.

'I offered to resign when the issue blew up in the media, but I never expected Pauline or the party officials to accept it,' he told the ABC.

'Other politicians including Ms Hanson have done far worse and survived.

'I made a mistake by allowing this guy to look after my website but Pauline has made bigger mistakes.'

One Nation has now lost three candidates since December, when it unveiled a team of 36 to contest the next Queensland election.

But the party also scored a major coup with the defection of former Newman government minister Steve Dickson earlier this month, giving it a toehold in state parliament for the first time since 2009.

One Nation has lost its third Queensland candidate in a month after party leader Pauline (pictured) Hanson dumped Peter Rogers

And its ranks have been bolstered further by the announcement another Newman government figure, former Thuringowa MP Sam Cox, had jumped ship to join the party.

Mr Cox, who lost his seat at the 2015 election after one term, will contest the seat of Burdekin at the next election, which is held by the LNP's Dale Last.

Queensland's next election is due by early 2018 but Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk is widely expected to head to the polls sometime this year.
And you and the people who think like you are prime examples of this.



You get your ideas about the effectiveness of torture from shows like "24". Radical Muslims hurt us on 9/11 and you want to hurt them back. You don't care if the methods you are suggesting are effective you are simply reacting with emotion. They hurt us you want to hurt them.



Trump is a textbook example of "emotional thinking". He has no self control when it comes to perceived slights. He lashes out on Twitter whenever his feelings gets hurt or when someone dares to disagree with his perception of reality.



You claim that the real enemies are the ones who make political decisions based on emotion and I agree. The problem is that you don't recognize who those people are. Trump is a man who, because of his emotional instability, can't be trusted on Twitter and we've given him access to nuclear weapons. What could possibly go wrong?
Multi-Millionaires are being handed tens of thousands of pounds a year by the Government to heat their mansions and swimming pools.

Wealthy owners of country estates are rewarded for using excessive amounts of heat  as long as it is made using green energy.

Some are given as much as 50,000 every year in taxpayers money so the UK can meet renewable energy targets agreed with the European Union.

The House of Schivas estate (pictured) is under investigation after being paid thousands in subsidies to heat its swimming pool which it is said to have had on all the time

Rewards increase as the landowners use more heat, so profits can be maximised by turning up the temperature.

The House of Schivas estate in Aberdeenshire run by Lord Catto, 66, is under investigation after the Daily Mail found it has been paid thousands in government subsidies to heat its indoor swimming pool 24 hours a day.

A reporter was told the water was kept hot at all times, even in summer.

In another case an undercover reporter was advised by a green energy salesman to raise the heat in the pool at a country manor to take advantage of the system.

The extraordinary deals mean the wealthy landowners are guaranteed to get the payments for 20 years. Almost 800million has been set aside to cover the payments this year and costs are expected to rise to more than 1billion by 2020. Meanwhile thousands of homeowners across the country struggle to heat their homes and pay their winter bills.

Tory MEP Daniel Hannan called the scheme upper class welfarism. He added: A system like this can be literally corrupting in that it makes an otherwise good person behave badly.

Mark Andrew, the former estate manager of The House of Schivas estate in Aberdeenshire, run by Lord Catto, 66

A similar cash for ash scandal in Northern Ireland has led to a political crisis there. Homeowners milked profits by turning green heating to maximum and opening windows.

Today the Mail can reveal:

Green energy salesmen claim clients in England make up to 50,000 a year from the renewable heat incentive scheme (RHI);

Landowners are advised to make money by using woodchip-fuelled heating in old farmhouses as they are poorly insulated and use more energy;

Investigations into suspected RHI fraud rose last year;

The green boilers are up to 20 per cent less efficient than hoped.

For six years wealthy homeowners and businesses have been pushed to switch oil and electric heaters to biomass boilers which get energy from woodchips or pellets, rotted trees, manure and sewage. The idea is to help the UK hit an EU target of getting 15 per cent of its energy from renewable sources by 2020. They are paid depending on how much heat is used. A cap of about 15 per cent of all the hours in the year exists to stop people keeping the heating on maximum all day.

But some users try to get as close to the cap as possible to maximise the payouts. Our undercover reporter, posing as a country estate employee, was encouraged by biomass salesmen to exploit the RHI.

What you want to do is get up as close to that [cap] in a year as you can because thats where your maximum benefits going to be, one said. You might increase your temperature in the pool by a degree or two or raise the temperature in the houses.

He added: If youve got an old farmhouse or cottages that arent very well insulated thats better because youre going to be using more energy, therefore youre going to get more money back.

The House of Schivas estate signed up to the RHI scheme more than four years ago and has claimed tens of thousands of pounds to use a woodchip boiler to heat the main house and the farm managers home. But it allegedly made most money on its pool.

The payback was quicker with the swimming pool because it was on all the time, former estate manager Mark Andrew told the Mail.

It was using heat all the time. Its absolutely brilliant. Throughout the year its the same. Throughout winter and summer.

The investigation by Ofgem, the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets, will examine if rules have been manipulated rather than any suspicion of fraud.

Current estate manager Tom Stewart said the pool is heated for six hours a day at the moment.

The Government has proposed to reform RHI this spring. The Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy said there were rules to prevent misuse.

Last year there was a rise in investigations of suspected fraud relating to RHI. There were 37 probes  compared to four in 2012/13. The domestic RHI began in 2014, accounting for some of the rise.

Ofgem said it ensures all participants comply with their obligations, which includes not generating heat for the predominant purpose of increasing payments.
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Members of team Trump poured into the Kushner residence to celebrate Shabbat Friday evening as the First Daughter and her husband finally relaxed after a whirlwind week.

Department of Commerce pick Wilbur Ross and his wife Hilary Geary Ross were in attendance. President Trump's Strategic Communications Director Hope Hicks, Ivanka's unofficial adviser Dina Habib Powell also joined the celebration.

Former president of Goldman Sachs and top economic policy adviser Gary Cohn, Department of the Treasury pick Steve Mnuchin and his partner Louise Linton were all sighted heading into the Kushner home.

Earlier that day, Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner's home was a frenzy as people worked to get the house ready for Shabbat Friday afternoon.

A florist, a rabbi, caterers and a glam squad were pictured entering the couple's new D.C. home.

The couple was later seen welcoming guests into their home for the festivities.

The Jewish family was preparing for the day of rest after a hectic week following President Trump's inauguration.

This time last week, the couple was likely getting dressed for the inaugural balls. Today, makeup artists were seen standing outside of their home in the Kalorama neighborhood chatting with Rabbi Levi Shemtov.

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Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump invite guests Wilbur Ross, President Trump's pick for the Department of Commerce, and wife Hilary Geary Ross into their home for Shabbat

Jared Kushner, President Donald Trump's senior adviser and son-in-law, greets guests at his new home in the Kalorama neighborhood

Wilbur Ross and Hilary Geary Ross leave the Kushners' home on Friday evening. Wilbur Ross is President Trump's pick for the Department of Commerce. Like Trump, he has been an opponent of what be calls 'bad trade deals'

President Trump's Strategic Communications Director Hope Hicks (left), Ivanka's unofficial adviser Dina Habib Powell (center) and former president of Goldman Sachs Gary Cohn (doorway) leave the Kushner residence

Steve Mnuchin, Trump's pick for the Department of the Treasury, and his partner Louise Linton enter the Kushner home to celebrate Shabbat

Dina Habib Powell, the head of Goldman Sachs Impact Investing arrives at Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner's house (left). Secret service surrounded the couple's home (right)

Former president of Goldman Sachs and top economic policy adviser Gary Cohn, Donald Trump's top economic adviser, speaks on the phone inside the Kushners' home

Secret Service stand outside Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner's house in northwest Washington, D.C.

With so many people coming in and out of the house, it was no surprise that secret service agents were present to inspect caterers and florists.

Rabbi Levi Shemtov was also present Friday afternoon. The Chabad is located just blocks from Ivanka and Jareds new home.

The Orthodox synagogue, run out of a simple brick building in the Dupont Circle neighborhood, is smaller and less ornate than others in the area.

As is the tradition in Orthodox synagogues, men and women are separated by a wall divider during prayer services. It has a congregation of around 50 members, including President Obamas Treasury Secretary Jack Lew.

Ivanka converted to Orthodox Judaism before she married her husband in 2009.

She told Vogue in an interview: 'Were pretty observant, more than some, less than others. I just feel like its such an intimate thing for us.'

'Its been such a great life decision for me. I am very modern, but Im also a very traditional person, and I think thats an interesting juxtaposition in how I was raised as well.'

'I really find that with Judaism, it creates an amazing blueprint for family connectivity.'

Rabbi Levi Shemtov walks out of the Kushners' home in the Kalorama neighborhood in northwest Washington, D.C.

Members of a glam squad were seen leaving Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner's home before Shabbat

Makeup artists speak to a rabbi outside of the couple's home in Washington, D.C. before their guests, many who are cabinet picks, arrived

A Secret Service agent uses a hand magnetometer to conduct a security check on a man delivering flowers to the home

Workers brought in boxes for preparations for Friday's Shabbat at the Kushners' home. Secret security agents were spotted outside the house screening people delivering packages

An employee from Occasions Caterers brings cases of glasses into the garage of Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner's home

Last Friday the couple was getting ready for the inaugural balls. Today, the glam squad appeared to be back to work for tonight's Shabbat festivities

A woman brings in boxed into the Kushners' home before Shabbat. Ivanka converted to Orthodox Judaism when she married her husband in 2009

The family has spent the past week adjusting to life in the nation's capital after moving from New York City.

The first daughter shared a snap of her two oldest children playing at a local park on Instagram on Thursday night.

The adorable photo shows Ivankas daughter, five-year-old Arabella, pushing a bundled-up Joseph, three, on a swing.

Arabella looks on from behind and Joseph laughs as their mother gets a snapshot of the loving moment. Ivanka captioned the photo with a heart emoji.

Ivanka Trump's father may have just become the most powerful man on earth - but it was her baby's achievements that she decided to celebrate on Wednesday

Ivanka shares a family photograph titled Blair House - lodgings close to the White House used traditionally by incoming presidential families

Ivanka Trump at her husband's swearing in ceremony in the East Room of the White House on Sunday. She is pictured holding three-year-old son Joseph and is sitting next to her brother-in-law Joshua Kushner and daughter Arabella

Jared Kushner had a brush with nature Friday morning, as he headed into work at the White House.

The son-in-law and adviser to President Trump was leaving his home in the upmarket Kalorama neighborhood of D.C. when a wild fox was spotted outside the house next door.

It's a sight that Kushner, who has lived in New York City for most of his life, will have to get used to now that he's suburbian.

Kushner is working as a special adviser to his father-in-law, President Trump. His family moved to the upmarket Kalorama neighborhood last week
A Dutch woman doctor who drugged an elderly woman and then asked her family to hold her down as she fought desperately not to be killed did not break the law, according to medical experts citing the country's euthanasia legislation.

The shocking case was referred to the so-called Regional Review Committee in the Netherlands which admitted that while the case involved some irregularities that merited a reprimand, the female doctor had effectively acted in good faith.

However they also added that the case should come to court so that judges can confirm that any other doctor who acts in good faith when providing euthanasia to people with dementia cannot be prosecuted.

A Dutch woman doctor who drugged an elderly woman and then asked her family to hold her down as she fought desperately not to be killed did not break the law

Regional Review Committee Chairman Jacob Kohnstamm said: 'I am convinced that the doctor acted in good faith, and we would like to see more clarity on how such cases are handled in the future.'

The Netherlands introduced the euthanasia law 17 years ago, and since then more than 5,500 people have ended their life, arguing that they are suffering unbearably. One of those who died was a sex abuse victim who suffered severe anorexia, chronic depression and hallucinations, and another was a severe alcoholic.

Every time a doctor performs euthanasia, they have to prepare a report for the coroner who sends the relevant documents to the Regional Review Committee.

In the latest controversial incident the unnamed woman, who was over 80, reportedly suffered from dementia and had earlier expressed a desire for euthanasia when she deemed that 'the time was right'.

As her situation deteriorated, it became difficult for her husband to care for her, and she was placed in a nursing home.

Medical paperwork showed that she often exhibited signs of fear and anger, and would wander around the building at nights. The nursing home senior doctor was of the opinion that she was suffering intolerably, but that she was no longer in a position where she could confirm that the time was now right for the euthanasia to go ahead.

However the doctor was of the opinion that the woman's circumstances made it clear that the time was now right.

The doctor secretly placed a soporific in her coffee to calm her, and then had started to give her a lethal injection.

Yet while injecting the woman she woke up, and fought the doctor. The paperwork showed that the only way the doctor could complete the injection was by getting family members to help restrain her.

It also revealed that the patient said several times 'I don't want to die' in the days before she was put to death, and that the doctor had not spoken to her about what was planned because she did not want to cause unnecessary extra distress. She also did not tell her about what was in her coffee as it was also likely to cause further disruptions to the planned euthanasia process.

The Review Committee concluded that the doctor 'has crossed the line' by giving her the first sleeping medicine, and also should have stopped when the woman resisted.

The paperwork and the recommendations of the committee are now being considered by prosecutors and health officials.

Kohnstamm said he was in favour of a trial: 'Not to punish the doctor, who acted in good faith and did what she had to do, but to get judicial clarity over what powers a doctor has when it comes to the euthanasia of patients suffering from severe dementia.'

It comes at a time when the Netherlands is considering a proposed extension to the law which would give all over-75s the right to assisted suicide.

A few conditions would have to be met first. There has to be a 'sustainable, well-considered and intrinsic' wish to die.

A specially trained 'life-ending consultant' would give their verdict about the death wish, which has to be seconded by another consultant or checking committee.

The life-ending consultant would have at least two interviews with the OAP, with at least two months between, to make sure the person knows what they are deciding and that they are not being pressured by their environment. The life-ending consultant could be a doctor, a nurse, a psychologist or a psychotherapist.

The proposal is likely to find support with Prime Minister Mark Rutte's coalition formed by the liberal VVD and their social-democratic partners of the PvdA, the Dutch Labour party.

The Ministers of Justice and Public Health have previously sent a joint letter to Parliament advocating a similar law.

Yet three Christian parties as well as the Socialist Party (SP) are leading the effort to stop any such law.

MP Renske Leijten of the SP said: 'Elderly care is not in order, a lot of OAPs are lonely and then they are making the ending of life easier?'

MP Renske Leijten of the SP said: 'Elderly care is not in order, a lot of OAPs are lonely and then they are making the ending of life easier?'

Gert-Jan Segers, a MP of the Christian Union, also attacked the plan.

He said: 'The proposal relies on the myth that this is an individual choice, but relatives, society and care workers are also involved.'

His party said the law would contradict with the duty of government to care for and protect the elderly, especially those in a vulnerable position.
Roshaun Jones, who has a record of 2-6 as a fighter in pro MAA, was arrested on Friday in connection with a double homicide in Del City, Oklahoma on Monday

A professional MMA fighter allegedly killed two people during a botched robbery of a laundromat in Oklahoma on Monday.

Roshaun Jones, 33, who has a record of 2-6 as a fighter in pro MAA, was arrested on Friday in connection with the robbery in Del City, TMZ reported.

The Oklahoma native was last seen in an MMA ring in Kansas this past November.

Authorities allege that he shot dead two people during the armed robbery of the Laundry Station laundromat in Del City, Oklahoma.

One victim, Nekia Jackson, 42, was a laundromat manager and the other, 60-year-old Russ Roberts, was a bystander who tried to stop the robbery.

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Jones (right), an Oklahoma native, was last seen in an MMA ring in Kansas this past November. Here he is seen in a weigh-in to promote an MMA fight in this undated Facebook photo

Jones (above) amassed a losing record as an MMA fighter, going just 2-6 in his bouts

Police allege that Jones entered the laundromat and during the attempted robbery got into an altercation with Jackson.

Roberts, who was the only customer in the laundromat, intervened to try and help Jackson.

At that point, police say Jones shot both of them and fled.

'She's a mom, and she just turned a grandma,' her father, Horace Jackson, told KFOR-TV.

Russ Roberts (left) intervened to try and help Nekia Jackson (right), the manager of the laundromat, as she resisted the armed robber alleged to have been Jones. At that point, police allege that Jones shot them both dead

'And, I'm a great grandfather. And, she was so passionate for the kids.'

Nekia worked the day shift on Monday, requiring her to open the laundromat early. This worried her family because it would still be dark outside at dawn.

'I always was uneasy with her, because she opens, and it would be dark, and it would be like 6, and she was punctual, and she had a couple of times she would come to work and stuff would be broken and windows cracked and they don't keep money in here,' Horace said.

Jackson opened the laundromat (above) at 6am, which worried her family because it was still dark outside when she left home to go to work

'He was just a super guy,' an acquaintance of Roberts, Dona Augsburger, told KFOR-TV.

Augsburger managed the building in which Roberts lived.

'I said that would be just like him to jump in a try to help, because he was just that type of man. It's a great loss for society, really, he was a great guy. He will be missed. I will miss him for sure,' Augsburger said.

Local law enforcement as well as the US Marshal service launched a manhunt in search of the suspects.

Jones was arrested Friday and charged with two counts of first degree murder.

If convicted, he faces the death penalty.
Marla Maples shared a throwback snap of herself with Ivanka and Tiffany Trump as girls Friday, months after Ivanka said she wasn't close to her stepmother.

The family photo shows Marla, Ivanka and Tiffany in Telluride, Colorado, posing in their ski outfits and smiling at the camera.

Marla captioned it: 'Appreciating moments with these two special girls', using the hashtags #FBF (for flashback Friday) and #sisterlove.

Ivanka raved about Tiffany in an interview in July, saying the two had always been very close and that she loved her younger sister - but did not say the same about her stepmother.

Marla Maples shared a throwback snap of herself with Ivanka and Tiffany Trump as girls (pictured) Friday, months after Ivanka said she wasn't close to her stepmother

When People magazine asked Ivanka if she and Marla were close, she replied: 'I'm not. She was out in California and really my relationship is with Tiffany.'

Marla married Donald Trump in 1993, the year after the mogul's marriage to Ivana Trump, Ivanka's mother, ended.

Trump and his first wife split after 15 years of marriage following his infamous affair with Marla.

The billionaire and Marla tied the knot in 1993 and split in 1999, leaving Maples as the hands-on parent to raise their daughter Tiffany, now 23.

Marla (left) married Donald Trump in 1993. The pair split in 1999, leaving Maples as the hands-on parent to raise their daughter Tiffany (right), now 23

Trump went on to marry First Lady Melania in 2005. Both Marla and Ivana attended his inauguration, with Marla sharing an excited Instagram live story from her front-row seat.

Tiffany and Ivanka didn't grow up together but saw each other frequently and developed a strong bond, according to Ivanka.

'We would see each other on all of the holidays and talk to each other frequently,' Ivanka told People in July. 'She's my little sister! I've been close to Tiffany her whole life, and I really love her.'
US President Donald Trump is set to call Malcolm Turnbull from the Oval Office on Sunday morning.

The Australian prime minister said on Friday his government is in constant touch with the new Trump administration and the relationship is very direct and engaged.

Mr Turnbull said he was looking forward to speaking with Mr Trump.

US President Donald Trump (pictured) is set to call Malcolm Turnbull from the Oval Office on Sunday morning

The Australian prime minister (pictured) said he was looking forward to speaking with Mr Trump and said the pair had 'a great deal to discuss'

'I have had a very good discussion with him shortly after the election when he was President-elect Trump,' he told reporters in Port Lincoln on Saturday.

'We have a great deal to discuss.'

The relationship between the US and Australia gets stronger all the time, Mr Turnbull said, expressing confidence it will be deeper during the Trump administration.

The 9am AEDT call to the Australian prime minister is one of many for the new president in the coming days.

He will also speak with Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Russian President Vladimir Putin and French President Francois Hollande.

Mr Trump is also due to speak with numerous other world leaders on the weekend, including Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe (pictured)

It comes as the recently-elected president has suspended the United States' Syrian refugee program for four months, reported the ABC.

Mr Trump has signed a presidential executive order stating the entry of 'nationals of Syria as refugees' is 'detrimental to the interests of the United States.'

'I'm establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America. Don't want them here,' Mr Trump said.

Mr Trump will also have conversations with Russian president Vladimir Putin (left) and German Chancellor Angela Merkel (right). It comes as the new president has signed an executive order suspending the US Syrian refugee program for the next four months

The order inflicts strict conditions on many potential immigrants to the US, suspends all refugee admissions for four months and also authorises 'extreme vetting'.

Part of the order directs that the State Department stop issuing visas to Syrian nationals and also indefinitely freezes the processing of refugees from war-torn countries.

Trump's executive order also appears to be capping the number of refugees the US will accept from other countries at 50,000 people in the fiscal year 2017, compared to 110,000 under the Obama administration.
Qantas customers will lose the chance to claim frequent flyer points on Sydney to Los Angeles flights with American Airlines.

From February 1, the two airlines will end their code-sharing arrangements on this trans-Pacific route.

Qantas and American Airlines are winding back joint programs after the U.S. Department of Transport questioned plans to expand their business ventures.

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Qantas customers will lose the chance to claim frequent flyer points on American Airlines flights from February 1, 2017

Qantas reassured its customers on Saturday the new developments would not affect passengers who had already booked a ticket to flight with American Airlines until September

Qantas issued a statement on Saturday, reassuring its customers the developments won't affect passengers who had already booked a Qantas ticket to travel on an American Airlines' Sydney to Los Angeles flight between February 1 and September 30, 2017.

Qantas will continue to code-share on non-overlapping routes including an American Airlines' service between Auckland and Los Angeles and more than 130 of American Airlines' domestic services.

Both airlines argue the U.S. Department of Transport had failed to appreciate the strong competition on cross Pacific Ocean routes.

Qantas already has a code-sharing agreement with Emirates to fly between Australia and Dubai.

Qantas chief executive Alan Joyce ended his airline's previous arrangement with British Airways in March 2013.

He opened a new Qantas hangar in Los Angeles on Saturday, on the same day his airline announced it had ended its Sydney to LA arrangement with American Airlines.

Qantas chief executive Alan Joyce (right) with Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop

Pictured is a Qantas A380 in the new Qantas Los Angeles hangar, which opened on Friday

Qantas has opened a new hangar in Los Angeles after ending a code-share agreement with American Airlines on Sydney to LA flights
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Floors rotted away, charred and graffiti-covered walls, thousands of margarine packets turned to dust, and the ghosts of tormented souls skulking what's left of the halls.

Once the most notorious asylum in Australia, Wolston Park Hospital is now nothing more than a decaying shell guarded by kangaroos, while its survivors fight for compensation.

The 150-year-old building in Wacol, near Brisbane, has been left to the elements since it closed in 2001 and is now a sad and creepy place popular with curious urban explorers like AJ Sofoulis.

Once the most notorious asylum in Australia, Wolston Park Hospital is now nothing more than a decaying shell guarded by kangaroos, while its survivors fight for compensation

Barely any of the abandoned wood and red brick structure is intact and police say the building is very dangerous.

That hasn't stopped hundreds from taking a peek each year, some marking their mark to complement the eerie atmosphere.

Photos show the graffiti includes the haunting words 'still lost' painted on a wooden bathroom panel and flames coming out of a long-extinguished fireplace.

The 150-year-old building in Wacol, near Brisbane, has been left to the elements since it closed in 2001 and is now a sad and creepy place popular with curious urban explorers

Photos show graffiti including the haunting words 'still lost' painted on a wooden bathroom panel

The windows are long gone and covered by corrugated iron sheets, and small fires have charred some of the wooden interior walls

The windows are long gone and covered by corrugated iron sheets, and small fires have charred some of the wooden interior walls.

In what was once the kitchen, an stove lies smashed and crumbling to dust on the floor while thousands of unopened margarine packets are strewn across another room.

The roof outside is rusting but the exterior largely stood the test of time and gives Wolston an appropriate look of a haunted house.

More than 50,000 people, including children as young as 11, called the asylum home over its lifetime since it was hastily built in 1865 after Queensland became a state.

One room had thousands of unopened margarine packets are strewn across the floor

In what was once the kitchen, an stove lies smashed and crumbling to dust on the floor

Barely any of the abandoned wood and red brick structure is intact and police say the building is very dangerous

What appear to have once been sinks are left filled with rubble and rubbish

Patients were often smuggled in by boat and packed into the cramped conditions that looked more like a prison than a treatment facility.

Dozens of survivors spoke out about their horrific treatment that included frequent sexual assault by staff, electroshock on children, and being force-fed drugs that are now banned.

They testified that beatings were sometimes a daily occurrence and many were drugged and hidden away when the government came to inspect.

Nine years after it closed they were given a blanket apology by the Queensland Government issued to all those abused under care, but were never compensated.

It stands on the grounds of a modern psychiatric hospital called The Park Centre for Mental Health but has not been left untouched.

The roof outside is rusting but the exterior largely stood the test of time and gives Wolston an appropriate look of a haunted house
Mischa Barton said she was drugged while having birthday drinks with friends, leading to a meltdown that left her screaming on top of her backyard fence.

The OC actress was taken to the hospital Thursday after neighbors found her screaming that her mother was a witch, TMZ reported. She was also rambling about the 'world shattering', and Ziggy Stardust - which is one of her dog's names.

Barton said Friday she was out of the hospital after an overnight stay and had found out through doctors that someone had given her GHB on Wednesday night, while she was celebrating her 31st birthday.

GHB, which is often referred to as a date-rape drug, has been known to be slipped in alcoholic drinks, typically to incapacitate victims of rape or sexual assault.

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Mischa Barton (pictured) was taken to hospital for mental evaluation after neighbors found her 'screaming about end of the world and her mom being a witch' on Thursday, TMZ reported

The OC actress was voluntarily taken to the hospital for a mental health evaluation after the incident Thursday morning, law enforcement sources told the website

Neighbors found the 31-year-old on top of her backyard fence in West Hollywood screaming that her mother was a witch. She said Friday that she was drugged while having drinks

Barton told People Friday that she went out with a group of friends on the evening of the 25th.

'While having drinks, I realized that something was not right as my behavior was becoming erratic and continued to intensify over the next several hours,' the actress aid.

'I voluntarily went to get professional help, and I was informed by their staff that I had been given GHB. After an overnight stay, I am home and doing well.'

Barton thanked the staff at Los Angeles' Cedars-Sinai Medical Center for their care.

'This is a lesson to all young women out there, be aware of your surroundings,' she added.

However, a source has now claimed to TMZ that Mischa was on a downward spiral for 'nearly a year' before checking into the hospital psych unit.

The site alleges that Mischa's neighbours claim she 'frequently' has loud crying and screaming fits, disturbing the peace.

Police and firefighters were called to the scene after being alerted about a jumper or possible overdose. Barton was then taken to the hospital

Her next-door-neighbours are also reported to have complained about the star's loud parties and late night Netflix binges.

Law enforcement sources told TMZ Thursday that Barton had been voluntarily taken to the hospital for a mental health check.

Police and firefighters were called to the scene after being alerted about a jumper or possible overdose. Barton was wearing just a dress shirt and tie at the time.

Not long afterwards the Brit, who turned 31 just two days ago, tweeted: 'Thank you all for all the birthday messages Xoxo'. The tweet seemed to have been deleted as of Thursday evening.

Not long after the incident the Brit, who turned 31 just two days ago, tweeted: 'Thank you all for all the birthday messages Xoxo'. The tweet seemed to have been deleted in the evening

Trouble: Police and firefighters were called to the scene after being alerted about a jumper or possible overdose. Barton is pictured earlier this month

It is not the first mental health episode Barton has been involved in.

In July 2009, after seeking medical attention for a tooth infection, the actress was sectioned for two weeks under a '5150', a Californian law that allows a psychiatrist to involuntarily confine a person deemed to have a mental disorder that makes them a danger to themselves and others.

She said at the time: 'If they feel you are depressed or a danger to yourself they can hold you on a 5150. I am terrified of needles and they wanted to pump me full of drugs and I said, 'No, absolutely not. I don't want to be here,' and got into a fight with the nurses, and that led to my 5150.'

It is not the first time Barton has blasted her mother Nuala either.

She famously sued her 2015, accusing her of defrauding her by stealing her money.

Not so happy birthday: Not long afterwards the Brit, who turned 31 just two days ago, tweeted: 'Thank you all for all the birthday messages Xoxo'

Last year she accused her mom of purposely holding up the sale of the $7million Beverly Hills mansion they co-own.

The 7,600-square-foot Tuscan-style villa, which boasts views of Catalina Island, was one of the focal points of the suit - with the actress claiming her mom gave herself co-ownership of the property without her knowledge or permission.

She accused Nuala of taking out massive loans against the house behind her back - and turning the home into her 'personal ATM'.

Barton even claimed she was then kicked out of the home by her parents who wouldn't let her back on the property.

That case was dismissed back in February with the terms of the agreement stating Nuala would sell the home.

Estranged: It is not the first time Barton has blasted her mother Nuala either. She famously sued her in 2015, accusing her of defrauding her by stealing her money

Nuala had been her daughter's manager for years until the actress accused her mom of being a 'greedy stage mother posing as a talent manager'.

Barton's lawsuit included claims that Nuala had lied about her salary for a film and didn't pay her the full amount.

She also accused her mom of opening up a Mischa Barton fashion boutique in London and used the Sixth Sense actress's name to hawk a handbag line - yet Barton claimed she never saw a cent.

Nuala called her daughter's allegations 'nonsense' and the case was dismissed in February last year.

Both mother and daughter have had financial problems for years - so the impending sale of the home should bring much-needed relief to them both.

Blocked: Last year she accused her mom of purposely holding up the sale of the $7million Beverly Hills mansion they co-own

Disputed: The 7,600-square-foot Tuscan-style villa, which boasts views of Catalina Island, was one of the focal points of the suit

In her bankruptcy papers, filed in February, Nuala said her assets totaled $3,747,500 but her liabilities totaled $5,583,412.

She said her average monthly income totaled only $1,600 but her expenses were $27,618 - leaving her in the red over $26,000 every month.

The biggest asset listed in her bankruptcy petition was the Bowmont Drive property.

She said the current value of her portion was $3,747,500 with the total value being $7,495,000.

The petition stated her liabilities as $4,264,567 on the mansion, including an unknown amount owed to Barton.

Nuala spends $10,500 a month on the Beverly Hills home along with $12,200 in additional mortgage payments, $3,635 in real estate taxes and $600 in food & housekeeping supplies, according to the papers.

Last year, the actress  who has been trying to sell off the home for 6 years - listed it for sale at the price of $7.495 million.

Barton also listed it back in 2010 for $8.6 million and even tried to rent it out for $35,000 a month but nobody bit.

London-born Barton moved to the United States when she was five and began acting at age eight, appearing in hit movies Sixth Sense and Notting Hill before rocketing to fame in teen drama The OC.

However her glittering career came crashing down as her partying began to get out of control.

She was arrested for DUI in 2007, then two years later - following an intervention by her parents - she had a nervous breakdown and was held in psychiatric care after threatening to kill herself.

Mis-step: Barton (pictured earlier this month) attempted a comeback on the most recent Dancing With The Stars - but was booted off after just three episodes

In 2009 her house went into foreclosure after it was revealed she had failed to pay her mortgage for five months.

The same month she was sued by producers of the movie Promoted, who claimed they paid her an advance but she never turned up for work.

Barton was then sued by her landlord over unpaid rent on her $7,000 a month NYC apartment in 2010 before suing her own mother five years later for 'theft' and 'breach of contract'.

Her legal troubles are believed to have left her homeless and broke.

She attempted a comeback on the most recent Dancing With The Stars - but was booted off after just three episodes.
The youngest victim of Melbournes Bourke Street tragedy has been released from hospital, four days after her brother was laid to rest.

Two-year-old Zara Bryant was discharged from the Royal Childrens Hospital on Friday afternoon.

Her three-month-old brother Zachary was killed after a man drove his car into a crowd at Melbourne's Bourke Street mall last Friday. Zachary was one of five people killed in the rampage.

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Two-year-old Zara Bryant (pictured left with her brother) was discharged from the Royal Childrens Hospital on Friday afternoon

Her three-month-old brother Zachary (pictured with sister Zara) was killed after a man drove his car drove his car into a crowd at Melbourne's Bourke Street mall last Friday

Crowds at a memorial held for victims of the Bourke Street Mall Attack at Federation Square

Zachary was farewelled on Tuesday at a private funeral.

Their parents Matthew and Nawwar Bryant described Zachary was a 'beautiful, loving, happy and perfect little baby' in a statement released to Daily Mail Australia on Monday.

Police have charged Melbourne resident Dimitrious Gargasoulas, 26, over the incident.

Among the dead are 10-year-old Thalia Hakin, who was out walking with her mother and eight-year-old sister Maggie when all three were hit by the car.

Police have charged Melbourne resident Dimitrious Gargasoulas, 26, over the incident

Police allege the vehicle was being driven by 26-year-old Dimitrious Gargasoulas

Maggie was left with a broken leg, still in plaster as she attended her sister's funeral earlier this week, while her mother was too gravely injured to see her own daughter laid to rest.

There are still 16 people in hospital following the attack, two of whom are still in critical condition, more than a week on.

Gargasoulas has been charged with five counts of murder and has been remanded in custody to appear again in December while lawyers compile the extensive evidence to be used against him.
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Police in Michigan are investigating the deaths of two men whose bodies were found in a car parked in front of a Walmart.

The victims were discovered inside a white Dodge Nitro that was parked at the Walmart Supercenter store in Caledonia Township on Friday, according to MLive.com.

Investigators believe that the two men were murdered, law enforcement officials say.

Police have not released the identities of the two men, who were only described as two adult males.

Police in Michigan are investigating the deaths of two men whose bodies were found in a car parked in front of a Walmart

Reports from the scene indicate that blood was found on the outside of the SUV, according to WJRT-TV.

There is still no word from investigators as to whether the victims were killed while inside the car or if their bodies were stashed inside the vehicle after they were dead.

The victims were discovered inside a white Dodge Nitro that was parked at the Walmart Supercenter store in Caledonia Township on Friday

Forensic investigators are on the scene gathering evidence which they hope will shed more light on the case.

Video below courtesy of WJRT-TV
Storms battering Northern California have caused a bypass to overflow and become an 'inland sea.'

The rare occurrence over the last two weeks, resulting from rain and snow runoff, has filled the Yolo Bypass's farms and wetlands with water.

Drivers on Interstate 80 between Davis and and Sacramento, 15 miles apart, will appear to drive over a large lake.

An estimated one million acre-feet of water have passed through the 40-mile-long Bypass recently.

Storms battering Northern California have caused the Yolo Bypass to overflow and become an 'inland sea.' Pictured: A less-inundated bypass in 2007 with a view toward Sacramento

An estimated one million acre-feet of water have passed through the 40-mile-long Bypass recently. Pictured: Roughly the same view showing the Bypass as an 'inland sea'

UC Davis Professor Jay Lund told the Los Angeles Times: 'It's an inland sea.'

The Bypass collects runoff from nearby mountains to prevent the flat Sacramento metropolitan area from flooding.

In the summer, the vast expanse of farms and wetlands is used to grow produce such as beets and tomatoes.

The water volume was so great that for the first time since 2005, workers had to open the floodgates of the Sacramento Weir.

The central Sierra Nevada mountain range had its wettest January in recorded history while Sacramento has had its fourth-wettest - which may go higher by the month's end.

Drivers on Interstate 80 between Davis and and Sacramento, 15 miles apart, will appear to drive over a large lake

The water volume was so great that for the first time since 2005, workers had to open the floodgates of the Sacramento Weir

Sacramento has had its fourth-wettest January on record - which may go higher by the month's end. Pictured: Tower Bridge in Sacramento

As a result, the percentage of the state experiencing drought declined from 95 percent to 51 percent.

Since Sacramento's founding, it has had to contend with flooding.

In fact, the city - and much of California's Central Valley - only exists because of gradual sediment deposits from the surrounding mountains.

The Yolo Bypass was built in the 1930s as part of the Sacramento Flood Control Project.

The percentage of California experiencing drought declined from 95 percent to 51 percent
Republican lawmakers are concerned about how to repeal Obamacare, a recording revealed late Thursday.

The audio, obtained by the Washington Post, features members of the GOP questioning how to replace the Affordable Care Act without disrupting the health insurance market or increasing the financial burden on middle-class families.

Some warned against settling for a 'quick fix' and worried about having to carry the new law's legacy. 'That's going to be called Trumpcare. Republicans will own that lock, stock and barrel,' Representative Tom McClintock said.

One senator also told his fellow GOP lawmakers they should not use the new healthcare law to defund Planned Parenthood, warning it would amount to 'walking into a gigantic political trap'.

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Republican lawmakers are concerned about how to repeal Obamacare, a recording has revealed. The audio comes from the Republican congressional retreat in Philadelphia (Donald Trump, Mike Pence and Paul Ryan are pictured at the event Thursday)

The recording, sent from an anonymous email address, came from a closed-door meeting during this week's Republican congressional retreat in Philadelphia. All lawmakers quoted by the Washington Post confirmed their remarks to the newspaper either themselves or through their offices.

Concerns expressed during the meeting reveal how GOP figures are struggling to figure out to implement Donald Trump's promise to do away with Obamacare.

The president has urged Congress to repeal the Affordable Care Act quickly, but Senator Lamar Alexander warned against a 'quick fix' in Thursday's recording.

'Our goal, in my opinion, should be not a quick fix. We can do it rapidly  but not a quick fix,' Alexander said. 'We want a long-term solution that lowers costs.'

Representative Tom McClintock (left) warned about having to bear the legacy of the new law that will replace Obamacare. Senator Lamar Alexander (right) spoke against a 'quick fix'

Representative Tom MacArthur expressed concern that some plans being considered by the GOP would leave 20 million people without proper coverage.

'We're telling those people that we're not going to pull the rug out from under them, and if we do this too fast, we are in fact going to pull the rug out from under them,' he said.

McClintock warned that the Republican party will have to carry the legacy of the new law devised under Trump's administration to replace Obamacare.

'We'd better be sure that we're prepared to live with the market we've created' McClintock said. 'That's going to be called Trumpcare. Republicans will own that lock, stock and barrel, and we'll be judged in the election less than two years away.'

Financing the new law seemed to be a concern as well. Senator Rob Portman told his colleagues that the amount saved by repealing Obamacare would have to be spent coming up with the new law to replace it.

Health insurance was one theme brought up by demonstrators who gathered Thursday outside the congressional retreat in Philadelphia Friday (pictured)

Two lawmakers worried that the new system would create higher taxes for middle-class families, or leave them unable to afford their premiums.

Some Republicans have thought about giving a refundable tax credit to families without private or government coverage. But Representative Pete Sessions expressed concern that this system would not benefit middle-class families, who can't afford to pay upfront while waiting for a refund.

Meanwhile Senator Bill Cassidy questioned another idea, which would target deductions allowing people to get coverage via their jobs with no additional taxes.

'It sounds like we are going to be raising taxes on the middle class in order to pay for these new credits,' he said.

Protesters gathered in front of the Loews Philadelphia Hotel, where the retreat is taking place, on Wednesday (pictured) , the first day of the reunion

One lawmaker spoke out against using the new healthcare bill to defund Planned Parenthood.

'We are just walking into a gigantic political trap if we go down this path of sticking Planned Parenthood in the health insurance bill,' Republican John Faso said. 'If you want to do it somewhere else, I have no problem, but I think we are creating a political minefield for ourselves  House and Senate.'

Another concern was needing Democrats' support to replace Obamacare.

'The fact is, we cannot repeal Obamacare through reconciliation. We need to understand exactly: What does that reconciliation market look like? And I haven't heard the answer yet,' McClintock said.

Trump signed an executive order aiming to pull the plug on Obamacare in his first hours in office. His administration this week halted Obamacare outreach and ads in the final days of the enrollment period, before partially retracting the ban on Friday.
An ABC radio host was lost for words after a talkback caller swore live on air during a chat about homelessness.

Former homeless woman Shae, from Footscray, was discussing the issue with experienced host Rafael Epstein on the popular Melbourne drive-time program.

She seemed articulate and spoke with a radio-friendly tone until she was asked how she would stop herself ending up back on the street.

ABC Melbourne host Rafael Epstein was was lost for words after a talkback caller said 'c**t' live on air during a chat about homelessness, stunned into silence for six seconds (stock image)

'Youve been homeless, what would have made a difference for you and whats going to keep you out of falling into that position again?' Epstein asked.

After a pause Shae replied, matter-of-factly: 'Probably just being a dodgy c**t, hey'.

Epstein sat in stunned silence for about six seconds wondering what to do before very awkwardly moving on to another caller.

The taboo remark went live to air uncensored for unknown reasons.

On the ABC program the caller replied: 'Probably just being a dodgy c**t, hey' (stock image)

Epstein (pictured) sat in stunned silence for about six seconds wondering what to do
Melbourne music lovers were treated to blue skies and banging tunes when the Laneway festival kicked off on Saturday.

Perth psych rockers Tame Impala were scheduled to headline the festival's main stage at 9.30pm.

But festival-goers had no problem killing time while the sun was still up.

The festival grounds were packed with colourful characters, dressed up in summer dresses, Hawaiian shirts, sequins, and short shorts - while some didn't wear much more than glitter.

Melbourne music lovers were treated to blue skies and great bands when the Laneway festival kicked off on Saturday

A lot of festival-goers took the opportunity to be doused in glitter by the women behind the Glitoris booth

Many cooled off with iced drinks in the hot weather, which peaked at 29.2 degrees at 11.30am, according to the Bureau of Meteorology

Social media pictures lucky ticket-holders enjoying the music and sun

Social media pictures lucky ticket-holders enjoying the music and sun.

A lot of them took the opportunity to be doused in glitter by the women behind the Glitoris booth.

Ali Gay, 27, who started Glitoris with two fellow Tasmanians, told Daily Mail Australia earlier in January: 'When you have glitter on its an invitation for people to say "hi" to you. So people would talk to us and we'd put glitter on them too.'

Perth psych rockers Tame Impala were scheduled to headline the festival's main stage at 9.30pm. Pictured at their show at the Laneway Festival in Brisbane on Thursday

UK-born future star Jess Kent, left, and singer-songwriter Nick Murphy, a.k.a. Chet Faker, were due to perform in Melbourne on Saturday. They are pictured at gigs in Brisbane on Thursday

Two revellers are pictured sipping 'frose,' which obviously is the name for frozen rose wine

Boots and shorts, or matching pants - anything goes at the Laneway festival

Many cooled off with iced drinks in the hot weather, which peaked at 29.2 degrees at 11.30am, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.

'The temperature peaked early, and in the afternoon the temperature has been sitting around the mid-twenties,' said Richard Carlyon, senior forecaster at BOM.

The sky 'should be clear right through the evening,' Mr Carlyon said.

'When you have glitter on its an invitation for people to say "hi" to you. So people would talk to us and we'd put glitter on them too,' said Ali Gay, a co-founder of the Glitoris booth

Music fans showed off their coolest poses in social media pics posted from the Laneway festival

Some heated up with kisses, while others cooled off with iced drinks

He said the weather would cool off to a low of 15 in the early hours of Sunday, when, presumably, many festival-goers will still be going strong.

Some revellers took to Twitter to communicate with the outside world.

A woman who met her dream guy but let him get away wrote a heartfelt message:

'I met the coolest person at laneway and he was so nice and I didn't get his name and I'm never going to see him again I'm so devastated.'

'Who's at Laneway and wants to share ONE cigarette?!' a man wrote.

One man who didn't get tickets let out his frustration:

'I am not at Laneway today. I am sad.'

The St Jerome's Laneway festival is held Saturday at the Footscray Community Arts Centre in the Melbourne's west.

In the coming week, the festival will be held in Auckland, Adelaide, Fremantle, WA, and Sydney.

Hippie culture isn't dead! Laneway visitors sported long hair, braids, jean shorts and dresses

These Laneway bros showed off in matching Hawaiian shirts under the hot sun Saturday

Sun glasses, boots and shorts was the dress code followed by these two revellers

Revellers kick back their heels at the Footscray Community Arts Centre

Two punters chose the occasion to don their best festival attire

A femaler festivalgoer treats herself to some downtime by an inflatable swan

The festival grounds were packed with the latest Summer stylings

A group of revellers take a moment to capture their day with a high-sprited snapshot

Festival-goers had no problem killing time while the sun was still up

Crowds outside one of the Melbourne stages iof the nationwide festival

Glitter seemed to be the dress code of the day

Spirits were high across the grounds of the festival

The festival grounds were packed with colourful characters, dressed up in summer dresses, Hawaiian shirts, sequins, and short shorts

Revellers let their hair down inside the trendy event
Theresa May arrived in Turkey to begin talks about a post-Brexit free trade deal. She is pictured here meeting President Erdogan

Theresa May today signed a fighter jet deal worth up to 100million with Turkey.

During a visit to Ankara, the Prime Minister announced that the UK's BAE Systems will work with Turkish Aerospace Industries on the fighter plane programme, known as TF-X.

Mrs May - who was also seeking to make progress on a post-Brexit trade deal with Turkey - unveiled the deal flanked by the country's Prime Minister, Binali Yldrm.

She declared: 'This agreement underlines once again that Britain is a great, global, trading nation and that we are open for business.

'It marks the start of a new and deeper trading relationship with Turkey and will potentially secure British and Turkish jobs and prosperity for decades to come.'

It is hoped Britain could win contracts to provide engines, weapons, radars and sensors.

Ankara is the latest leg of Mrs May's 10,842 mile trip between Britain, America and Turkey to drum up trade post-Brexit.

Mrs May earlier met its controversial president Tayyip Erdogan, after flying into Turkey in her way from historic talks with President Trump in the White House.

Civil rights groups have been piling pressure on Mrs May to tackle President Erdogan head-on over human rights abuses.

Theresa May and Tayyip Erdogan (sitting down nearest to camera on the right) sit down at the Presidential Palace in Ankara

Theresa May has clocked up 10,842 miles in the last two days travelling between Britain, the USA and Turkey to discuss post-Brexit trade deals

Mrs May speaks at a press conference in Ankara after meeting with President Erdogan

Mrs May's lunch with Mr Erdogan at the presidential palace started about an hour late after their talks went on longer than expected

Mrs May glances over at Prince Minister Binali Yldrm as they speak together at a press conference

Theresa May flanked by advisers Nick Timothy (left) and Fiona Hill (fourth from left)

Fiona Hill glances over at the Prime Minister during the dinner in the presidential palace

This will be the 13th working group she has set up with other countries since June's referendum, although formal trade negotiations cannot begin until Britain leaves the EU

He has jailed thousands of people, including journalists, in a crackdown after a failed coup against him last year.

The jet deal was put on hold last August as Britain assessed the ferocity of President Erdogan's response to the attempt to bring him down.

But Mrs May said it was now getting the green light to proceed.

BAE Systems Chief Executive, Ian King, said the deal could 'pave the way for a deeper defence partnership and could effectively make the UK Turkey's partner of choice, positioning it as a key aerospace technology exporter to Turkey.'

Mrs May is also expected to set up a working group to look at lifting trade barriers with Turkey. It is the 13th country she will have begun working with in this way since Brexit.

In response to human rights questions about Turkey, No10 has repeatedly stated that It is an important strategic ally, both as a member of NATO and in working to stem the tide of migration into Europe over the past two years.

Her meetings with President Erdogan will also focus on security and counter-terrorism, particularly the fight against Isis in Syria and Iraq

Since it crushed a coup attempt in July, Mr Erdogan's government has closed media outlets and sacked thousands of public officials, including judges, academics and teachers

The two leaders walk together following a meeting at the presidential palace in Ankara

Earlier, Mrs May laid a wreath at the tomb of Kemal Ataturk, the founder of the modern Turkish republic.

Dressed in sombre black, the PM bowed her head in respect after laying the large red and white wreath - the colours of Turkey's flag - before Ataturk's sarcophagus inside the imposing mausoleum building which perches on a hill in the centre of Ankara.

Mrs May then signed her name in the visitors' book, beneath the message: 'It is a great honour to visit this special place of remembrance to the founding father of modern Turkey.

'Let us together renew our efforts to fulfil Ataturk's vision of peace at home and peace in the world.'

British Prime Minister Theresa May, centre, walks during a visit to the mausoleum of Turkey's founding father Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, in Ankara

Dressed in sombre black, the PM bowed her head in respect after laying a large red and white wreath - the colours of Turkey's flag - before Ataturk's sarcophagus

Ataturk was the founder of the republic of Turkey and served as its first President from 1923 until his death in 1938

Mrs May bows her head in front of the tomb of Ataturk, as two uniformed soldiers stand guard

Ataturk's imposing mausoleum building is perched on a hill in the centre of Ankara

Mrs May then signed her name in the visitors' book, beneath the message: 'It is a great honour to visit this special place of remembrance to the founding father of modern Turkey'

A British Government Land Rover flying a union flag drives through Ankara at the start of Theresa May's visit

THERESA MAY RAISES HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSES AFTER UPROAR FROM CAMPAIGNERS The Prime Minister's arrival in Turkey seemed a much more sombre affair than her wildly friendly trip to the White House Theresa May today challenged the grim faced president of Turkey over the country's human rights record. Sitting alongside President Erdogan during a visit to Ankara, the Prime Minister said his country must 'sustain democracy by maintaining the rule of law and upholding its human rights obligations.' Mrs May arrived in Ankara this morning after a direct flight by RAF Voyager jet from Washington, where she became the first foreign leader to meet President Trump. The Prime Minister's arrival in Turkey seemed a much more sombre affair than her wildly friendly trip to the White House, where she was pictured holding President Trump's hand as they walked through the grounds. The Prime Minister arrived at the presidential palace to find her own image dominating television screens, which were showing footage of her visit to the White House. As she sat down to begin talks, the controversial Turkish president pointed out the footage playing on a huge TV screen. 'It was well covered in Turkey,' an aide to the president explained, as Mrs May laughed in surprise. Mr Erdogan asked how the weather in Ankara - currently under a light coating of snow - compared to Washington. 'Here is colder,' she replied. During the visit, the two leaders will set up a working group to allow officials to discuss the groundwork of a free trade agreement. Mrs May was flying direct from Washington last night where she met President Donald Trump during a wildly friendly visit This will be the 13th working group Mrs May has set up with other countries since June's referendum, although formal trade negotiations cannot begin until Britain leaves the EU. Mrs May's lunch with Mr Erdogan at the presidential palace started about an hour late after their talks went on longer than expected. The Prime Minister is under pressure to condemn Turkey's clampdown on civil liberties since the crushing of a coup attempt in July. Turkey has detained tens of thousands of people suspected of links to a movement led by U.S.-based Muslim cleric Fethullah Gulen, who the government accuses of orchestrating the failed coup. More than 100,000 others have been dismissed from government jobs. The crackdown extended to other government opponents. More than a hundred journalists and pro-Kurdish party leaders are in jail. Advertisement
Isnilon Hapilon has a $5-million bounty on his head from the US government for his involvement in the 2001 kidnapping of three Americans in the Philippines

A top leader of an ISIS-affiliated Islamic militant group who is on the United States' list of 'Most Wanted Terrorists' has been wounded in military airstrikes.

Isnilon Hapilon has a $5-million bounty on his head from the US government for his involvement in the 2001 kidnapping of three Americans in the Philippines.

Hapilon has been recognised by IS as its leader in Southeast Asia and belongs to Abu Sayyaf, a kidnap-for-ransom gang based in the southern Philippines.

Philipine Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said Hapilon was 'seriously wounded' in air strikes on Wednesday in the town of Butig, 500 miles south of Manila.

He said: 'As of [Friday, Hapilon] is still being carried by four men in a makeshift stretcher moving northeast of Butig.

'Troops are in hot pursuit supported by ground artillery and air support.'

Lorenzana added the military offensive killed four of Hapilon's companions including an Indonesian he identified as having the alias Mohisen.

The Abu Sayyaf, a loose network of militants formed in the 1990s with money from Al-Qaeda, preys on vessels between Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines.

It has earned millions of dollars from kidnappings-for-ransom.

Hapilon was involved in the kidnapping of three Americans from a resort in the western Philippine island of Palawan in 2001, according to the US.

The militants later beheaded one captive in their stronghold in Basilan island in the strife-torn south.

Hapilon (bottom right) has been recognised by IS as its leader in Southeast Asia. Pictured: A wanted poster from 2006

Another hostage died in the crossfire with soldiers during a rescue operation in 2002. The third American was freed.

Hapilon has pledged allegiance to IS, which endorsed him as 'amir for Southeast Asia,' according to a report by think-tank Institute for Policy Analysis of Conflict.

'Southeast Asians in Syria have pledged their loyalty to him,' the report said.

Hapilon was based in Basilan but he had moved to Lanao del Sur province, 180 miles east, in a bid to establish an IS presence there.

Lorenzana added Hapilon was 'trying to rally' into cooperation the Maute group, another gang which had pledged allegiance to IS.
The young Muslim girls caught in a storm of controversy over an Australian Day billboard have opened up on fears for their safety.

The Australian-born girls, aged 10 and 12, told 7News they had been living in fear after the controversial billboard showing them holding Australian flags was erected in Melbourne last week.

The billboard was part of a Victorian Government promotional campaign but was pulled down after the company behind it was issued death threats.

Now, the youngsters have lifted spirits after the ad was picked up by another company on the strength of a $170,000 crowdfunding campaign.

The young Muslim girls featured in an Australia Day billboard, 10 and 12, have opened up on fears for their safety

A photograph of two young Muslim girls in hijabs used in a controversial Australian Day billboard (pictured) was taken as the pair celebrated last year with their families in Melbourne

'We felt frightened, scared, like we were not safe, like something dangerous is going to happen,' one of the girls said.

The sign sparked an online debate after a picture of it was shared by far-right groups.

The image was taken without their knowledge at the Docklands in Melbourne last year as the young girls celebrated Australia Day with their families

'They didn't tell us, just one day we saw on the news two girls in Hijabs were on the billboard. We looked closely and it was us,' one of the girls said.

But they said the national show of solidarity to get the ad renewed with another print media campaign gave them a renewed sense of belonging.

'Now we feel like we belong in Australia because everyone cared. We thank them a lot.'

Their faces have been used in a similar print media Australia Day campaign after a crowdfunding campaign

Some commenters were outraged that Australia was only represented by a pair of Muslim women instead of a more diverse crowd

The heated debate attracted hundreds of comments with a variety of opinions, and was shared thousands of times.

Some commenters were outraged that Australia was only represented by a pair of Muslim women instead of a more diverse crowd.

'Some culture doesn't belong! Meh all this multi cultural bs being rammed down our throats,' one angry Facebook user wrote.

'Muslims on that is a disgrace... I don't know what's going on in this country... It's just going downhill... Muslims are not the face of Australia,' another said.

'PC to the extreme. There's nothing wrong with including people from different backgrounds as Australia is more or less a melting pot of different cultures,' a third wrote.

'But to represent Australia as just Muslim people (as the billboard implies) is just as ignorant as assuming Australians are all Caucasian,' they added.
He has made his mark on the silver screen with some of the most memorable performances of the last century, but more of his finest moments may still be ahead.

After a long battle with pancreatic cancer, Sir John Hurt died on Wednesday but despite poor health, he had continued to work on a number of projects set for release this year.

Set to use his own experience to bring the role to life, he plays a once-famous screen-writer in his seventies who is terminally ill in That Good Night, due to be released this year.

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Hurt plays a terminally ill writer trying to fix things with his family before he dies in That Good Night (pictured), set for release this year

In the movie, he struggles to fix his broken relationship with his son and make sure he is not a burden to his wife in his final months, a role he acted after his own diagnosis in June 2015.

Revealing his feelings on death after his own 2015 diagnosis, he told the Radio Times: 'I can't say I worry about mortality, but it's impossible to get to my age and not have a little contemplation of it.'

Hurt had been filming for movie the Darkest Hour, in which he was to play the former Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain in the early days of World War Two.

The all-star cast also included Gary Oldman as Churchill, Kirstin Scott Thomas as Churchills wife Clementine and Lily James as Elizabeth Nell.

In the movie, Churchill - who became Britain's leadership after it became apparent that Chamberlain was not a wartime leader - leads an early charge against Hitler.

He was also set to appear as Neville Chamberlain alongside Gary Oldman (pictured) as Winston Churchill in Darkest Hour, although it is not known what will happen as the movie is still filming

Both Damascus Cover and That Good Night have already been filmed so it is unlikely that any complications will arise from Sir John's death

The big-budget British movie is still being filmed, it is believed, so it is not yet known if Hurt will appear or if they will have to find someone to replace him.

In 2000 classic movie Gladiator, Oliver Reed died unexpectedly of a heart attack during filming so the filmmakers used the footage already shot and a few scenes featured a CGI version of the star.

All the other projects Hurt had been working on were already filmed and are set for release next year, including My Name Is Lenny, a biopic on one of Britains most notorious bare-knuckle boxers, Lenny McLean.

Hurt plays Leslie Salmon after stepping in from the now retired Michael Gambon as the character of Leslie Salmon in the movie set for release in February and starring real-life prize fighter Michael Bisping.

Hurt will also star in Damascus Cover, alongside Jonathan Rhys Meyers, a movie about an undercover mission in Syria, set for release at some point this year.
David Cameron has been paid tens of thousands of pounds for advising hedge fund managers about the consequences of Brexit, it was reported last night.

The former prime minister attended a private breakfast in London organised by the Gerson Lehrman Group, which puts businesses in touch with experts.

The revelation comes after the Mail revealed George Osborne met executives from BlackRock five times while still in office before taking a lucrative job with the US finance giant.

The former chancellor has made more than 600,000 from speeches in the past six months and is expected to earn a six-figure salary as a senior adviser with the worlds biggest asset manager.

George Osborne (right) listens as David Cameron delivers a speech on the economic impact of the UK leaving the European Union

Mr Cameron is apparently following in the footsteps of Tony Blair and other former politicians by pursuing highly-paid commercial ventures after office.

David Cameron has been paid tens of thousands of pounds for advising hedge fund managers

The Times reported that the breakfast before Christmas was attended by a dozen financiers, mainly from US investment firms.

Government rules dictate that politicians are not permitted to draw on privileged information acquired during office in commercial activities.

Richard Socarides, a spokesman for GLG, confirmed that a very small, intimate meeting had taken place.

He said: We host hundreds of small group meetings ... for conversations which are all off the record but often wide-ranging.

He added that GLGs invited clients, which the company declined to name, could ask Mr Cameron about any topic they wished to discuss.

It is understood that the attendees were portfolio managers for hedge funds that pay GLG millions in annual subscriptions.

The Times said topics up for discussion included the political and economic consequences of Brexit and Donald Trumps election.

OFFICIALLY RAKING IN THE CASH George Osborne: As a member of the Washington Speakers Bureau and an adviser for the world's largest assets manager BlackRock, the former Chancellor of the Exchequer earns up to 80,000 per speech.

William Hague: The Lord Hague of Richmond, who has held a number of cabinet and shadow cabinet posts, earned a staggering 1.3million from various speeches in 2016 for companies such as Linklaters and Citigroup.

Sir Danny Alexander: The former chief secretary to the Treasury is now in the well-paid post of vice-president of Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.

Andrew Lansley: Lord Lansley served as Health Secretary under Cameron between 2012 and 2014 before becoming an adviser for a private equity fund, a management consultancy firm and two pharmaceutical companies including Roche.

Sir Ed Davey: The former Energy Secretary has stayed in the industry by becoming an adviser for a lobbying firm whose clients include EDF.

Sir Craig Oliver: David Cameron's former chief of communications is now managing director of consultancy firm Teneo Blue Rubicon.

Sir Hugh Robertson: He is now in charge of the London branch of a company dealing in strategic advice to the leadership of Dubai having worked as the Minister for the Middle East.

Greg Baker: The now non-executive director of Lightsource Renewable Energy has stayed in the field having formerly been the Energy and Climate Change Minister.

Sir Henry Bellinger: The former Minister for Africa is now non-executive chairman for Pathfinder Minerals.

Steve Webb: The director of policy at Royal London - a company for pensions - has stayed in his area of expertise having served as Pensions Minister.

David Heath: After serving as Minister of Food and Agriculture, he has since been appointed as regional chairman of the Consumer Council for Water

Mark Hoban: The now non-executive director of the London Stock Exchange used his expertise from his time as financial secretary to the Treasury. Source: The Times. Advertisement

Mr Cameron has received approval from Whitehalls watchdog, the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments, to register with the Washington Speakers Bureau to give speeches on the contemporary global environment.

It is understood that the breakfast meeting was arranged through the WSB.

A document seen by the Times suggested that GLG expected to have a continuing working relationship with Mr Cameron and hoped to put clients in touch with him in future.

In the case of Mr Osborne, opposition MPs accused him of trading on his ministerial contacts book and blasted Acobas handling of the appointment as an embarrassing bungle and a farce.

Acoba, which examines potential conflicts of interests or breach of ministerial rules, has never blocked a single appointment.

David Cameron and George Osborne speak together during a question and answer session at the construction company Skanska
Brody File Exclusive Interview: President Trump Relying On God Now More Than Ever



DAVID BRODY: Let me switch gears. You know, it wouldnt be an interview between us if I didnt ask a God question, if you will. How has that spiritual journey been for you? Especially being here and knowing the gravity of the office. Do you feel the need to pray more? Where are you on that?



PRESIDENT TRUMP: Well, Ill tell you what. Ive always felt the need to pray. And you know thatSo, I would say that the office is so powerful that you need God even more, because your decisions are no longer gee, Im going to build a building in New York, or Im going to do this. These are questions of massive life and death, even with regard to health care. You know were working very hard on health care. But there, youre talking about life and death and youre talking about better lives. People living better because they have better health care at a lower price, which were working very hard on. So yes, you realize these decisions are all so important. Theres almost not a decision that you make when youre sitting in this position that isnt a really life-altering position. So God comes in even more so.

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A five-year-old boy has been forced to change schools because he was not allowed to wear a turban that was part of this religion.

Sidhak Singh Arora really wanted to attend Melton Christian College in Melbourne's north-west.

But his patka, a turban for young Sikh boys with long hair, was an issue.

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Sidhak Singh Arora (pictured) was excited about going to Melton Christian College

The boy's father Sagardeep Singh Arora (pictured) said the turban was not a fashion item

His father, Sagardeep Singh Arora, said it was unfortunate his son could not attend the best school in Melton.

'I really feel bad, and disappointed, because I thought this is a modern society, how can a kid not go to the school of his choice, just because he is wearing a religious clothing?,' he told SBS News.

'My son really wanted to go to that school.

'This is one of the best schools over there, I say the best school in the Melton area.'

Sagardeep Singh Arora puts a patka on in the morning for his son Sidhak Singh Arora

The boy's family has taken Melton Christian School (pictured) to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal

The boy's father said the patka, which he puts on his son's head every morning, wasn't a fashion accessory.

'You have to keep your hair covered all the time,' he said.

'It's not like a fashion, or accessory for us, it's like a basic principle of our religion.'

The boy's family has taken his case to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal and the school principal declined to comment.

A hearing date has been scheduled for April.
The Prince of Wales during a pre-dinner reception of the People's Postcode Lottery Charity gala at Prestonfield House, Edinburgh on Tuesday

The Prince of Wales has complained that the British public has become 'obsessed' with Brexit at the expense of other burning issues such as the persecution of Christians in the Middle East.

Prince Charles expressed his concerns to guests at a Lambeth Palace reception hosted by the Archbishop of Canterbury the Most Reverend Justin Welby where he was a guest of honour.

The heir to the throne is reported to have said he believed a major report on religious persecution has 'sunk without trace' due to the UK's focus on leaving the European Union.

The Telegraph reported, citing a well placed source, that Prince Charles told guests at the event on Thursday evening: 'People are more interested and obsessed with Brexit than persecuted Christians.'

The comments, made in private conversation, have not been denied by Royal Aides and Clarence House said it does not comment on private conversations.

The Prince has spoken often on religious persecution in recent months and in December warned against a repeat of 'the horrors of the past' on Radio 4's Thought for the Day.

During the reception he outlined his dismay that a report called Religious Freedom in the World 2016 by Aid to the Church in Need (ACN), a Catholic charity that supports oppressed Christians, had received little coverage in the mainstream media.

The source at the Lambeth House event said: 'Prince Charles complained that the Aid to the Church in Need report had sunk without trace because people were so obsessed with Brexit.'

Prince Charles looks round at the crowd after unveiling a commemorative plaque at the Mountsorrel Railway and Rothley Community Heritage centre in Rothley on Tuesday

An EU supporter waves the Union's flag outside the Supreme Court in London before judges ruled that Parliament must be given a vote on if the UK can trigger Article 50

The ACN welcomed the prince's comments and said it had received a donation from the Prince of Wales' Charitable Foundation.

Neville Kyrke-Smith, ACN's national director, said: 'Despite highlighting the genocidal attacks on Christians and other minorities in the Middle East, the secular press showed little interest in the Religious Freedom in the World Report and there was no national television coverage.

'It is those who are suffering at this time who are left abandoned unless ACN and other charities respond to their terrible plight.'

Prince Charles also has concerns over climate change and wrote exclusively for the Mail on Sunday last week calling for the world ' to act before it is too late and we test our world to destruction.'

'Climate change has heightened the risk of flooding in some areas of the world and of drought in others,' he wrote.

'It is leading to a decline in some wildlife species, threatens food and water supplies and can be a contributing factor for the migration of people. These effects can in turn exacerbate political tensions and help fuel conflict.'

He has also written a new Ladybird book, with collaborators, warning of the threat of global warming aimed at explaining complicated subjects to a mass audience.

Prince Charles has written a Ladybird book warning of the threat of global warming

The Supreme Court ruled on Tuesday that Prime Minister Theresa May must obtain the approval of both Houses of Parliament before beginning the two-year process of pulling the UK out of the European Union.

Gina Miller launched the Brexit legal case with London-based Spanish hairdresser Deir Tozetti Dos Santos and the People's Challenge group, set up by Grahame Pigney and backed by a crowd-funding campaign.

Since this week's ruling Miller claims she has become 'the most hated woman in Britain' and was told she is not 'not even human' by racist trolls on the internet.

Meanwhile, Mrs May became the first foreign leader to meet President Donald Trump on Friday where both leaders agreed they would work to establish trade negotiation agreements.

Gina Miller, pictured centre outside the Supreme Court flanked by private security, claims she has been told she is 'not human' because she is a 'coloured woman'

The President said he was 'honoured' by Mrs May's visit and that relations between the two long-standing allies had never been stronger as the leaders held a press conference at the White House.

The leaders were also spotted briefly holding hands walking on White House grounds.

The Prime Minister is also set to discuss a post-Brexit trade this weekend with Turkey after meeting with controversial President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday.

A spokeswoman for Number 10 said: 'They will be discussing a new trade relationship (and) a strategic security partnership.'

Mr Trump said it was 'an honour' to have Mrs May in the White House and also said he was honoured to have the Churchill bust in place

In an apparent reaction to the UK's initial trade talks with non-EU nations Germany on Friday urged the Union to quickly wrap up dozens of deals around the world.

During a meeting of EU finance ministers in Brussels yesterday, German officials warned that the EU needed to act because of supposed threats posed by Brexit and Mr Trump's presidency.

A document circulated by finance minister Thomas Steffen urged other EU states quickly to tie up 12 free trade deals with countries including Japan, China, Australia and New Zealand.
Between filthy flatmates, noise pollution and eye-watering rental prices, share houses come with their fair share of pitfalls.

But young New Zealand couple Anna Naygrow and Christoph Riedel have side-stepped them all by building their own tiny abode from scratch  all during their university holidays.

Nestled away in a remote plot of land in Nelson, the 7.6m long by 2.4m wide home-on-wheels is poised to soon be up and running with power, water and a fireplace.

New Zealand couple Anna Naygrow and Christoph Riedel have built their own tiny abode from scratch

The 7.6m long by 2.4m wide home is poised to be up and running with power, water and a fireplace

'It's a going to be cosy. We're going to get have a fireplace, everything's double-glazed, and there's plenty of natural light,' Christoph Riedel told Daily Mail Australia.

The couple were inspired to tackle the huge project after growing disillusioned with squalid and poorly heated Christchurch share houses.

'We were sick and tired of our flatmates. The places we were renting were cold, mouldy flats at exorbitant costs,' said Anna Naygrow

After loaning some money from their parents, the students put their studying skills to use researching tiny houses online. Within months they were laying the foundations.

They couple bought the trailer base and then second-hand windows, before employing a roofer friend to give them a helping hand putting it together.

The bite-sized property is set to have a kitchen-living room, bathroom and composting toilet, and a mezzanine bedroom with a skylight.

The couple were inspired to carry out the massive-scale project after growing disillusioned with living in squalid and poorly heated Christchurch sharehouses

After loaning some money from their parents, they set about studying tiny houses online to plot out how they would tackle the project

They couple bought the trailer base and then second-hand windows, and employing a roofer friend to give a helping hand

After loaning some money from their parents, the students put their studying skills to use researching tiny houses online - including how to install kitchens from scratch
Britain could be put on a fast-track process to rejoin the EU if it wanted to reapply for membership, the chief Brexit negotiator of the European Parliament has claimed.

Former Belgian Prime Minister Guy Verhofstadt said it would be 'always possible' for a future British government to come back into the bloc if it regretted leaving.

The staunch federalist added that a British request for membership could be dealt with 'a little bit faster than normal'.

Former Belgian Prime Minister Guy Verhofstadt said it would be 'always possible' for a future British government to come back into the bloc if it regretted leaving

Referring to the UK, Mr Verhofstadt told Al-Jazeera: 'They can always reintroduce a request for membership of the European Union.'

When asked during the interview what drove the Brexit vote, Mr Verhofstadt replied: 'Mainly the migration.[sic] It's very clear.'

The Brussels veteran is thought to represent a widespread feeling in EU institutions that the UK will regret Brexit and rapidly want to come back into the fold.

'In their hearts, some of them still hope we won't go through with it,' a senior British official with knowledge of the negotiations told The Telegraph.

Mr Verhofstadt recently clashed with Boris Johnson over his jibe comparing the French president to a Nazi guard administering 'punishment beatings'

Mr Verhofstadt's appointment as chief negotiator was bitterly criticised by leading Brexiteers, who see him as a Brussels insider who despises Eurosceptics.

Nigel Farage of the UK Independence Party, described the Belgian as a 'fanatical' federalist who 'hates everything we stand for'.

The spirit of Mr Johnson's remark echoed Theresa May's speech last week, when she warned the EU it would be an act of 'calamitous' self-harm to refuse a trade deal. The Prime Minister pictured in Turkey today

Mr Verhofstadt recently clashed with Boris Johnson over his jibe comparing the French president to a Nazi guard administering 'punishment beatings'.

The Foreign Secretary had been asked about Francois Hollande allegedly wanting to punish Britain for its Brexit decision.

Mr Verhofstadt quickly branded the comments 'abhorrent' and later suggested in an article for the Guardian that 'no European leader has called for this'.

The spirit of Mr Johnson's remark echoed Theresa May's speech last week, when she warned the EU it would be an act of 'calamitous' self-harm to refuse a trade deal.

But Mr Verhofstadt, the former Belgian premier, said on Twitter: 'Yet more abhorrent & deeply unhelpful comments from @BorisJohnson which PM May should condemn.'
The hibbertia fumana was thought to have disappeared in 1823

A flower that was thought to have disappeared almost 200 years ago has resurfaced in Sydney.

The hibbertia fumana was found at the proposed development site for the SIMTA Moorebank Intermodal Terminal Facility in Sydney's south-west after it was last seen 1823.

The 'once-in-a-lifetime find' has excited scientists and botanists after uncovering 370 individual specimens, according to The Sydney Morning Herald.

'Finding a species thought to be extinct is not something many scientists get to do in a lifetime, so this is an exciting discovery for everyone involved,' senior ecologist with Arcadis Jane Rodd said.

The find had been kept secret for over a year prompting several parties to ponder the discovery had been kept quite until the site won approval for development.

Greg Hunt, the former federal environment minister, approved the development in March, 2014, but only under a number of conditions including a 'targeted search' for endangered species of flower.

Greens environment spokeswoman Mehreen Faruqi told The Sydney Morning Herald it was very suspicious the news came only after approval was successfully obtained.

'We need to know who knew what and when as well as how the project was approved just a few days before this critically endangered species was listed,' Mr Faruqi said.

The SIMTA Moorebank Intermodal Terminal Facility claims to be 'a vital piece of infrastructure for NSW that will transform the way containerised freight moves through Port Botany and deliver a faster, simpler, and more cost-effective service'.

The area of bushland where the plants were found is proposed to be set aside as a biobanking site.

The flower was found at the proposed development site for the SIMTA Moorebank Intermodal Terminal Facility (pictured)
Identified: David Lytton had travelled to the UK from Pakistan two days before his death

The British man who is thought to have flown from Pakistan to kill himself at an English beauty spot did not have a single visitor to his home in 34 years, it has emerged.

David Lytton left the UK for Asia in 2006 before returning and seemingly ending his life.

But spent most of his days in South London, where his neighbour revealed nobody called in to visit in more than three decades.

He was found dead on a cold hillside, fully clothed with 130 cash in his pocket and rat poison in his blood.

And after a year of investigations, the mystery man of Saddleworth Moor has finally been identified as a 67-year-old pensioner who had travelled to Britain from Pakistan two days before his death.

Mr Lytton was discovered clothed and lying prone on the ground above Dovestone Reservoir in Greater Manchester on December 12, 2015.

He had no wallet, mobile phone or other identification and remained unidentified despite public appeals and CCTV footage of his last known movements.

The day before he had travelled by train from London Euston to Manchester Picaddilly station and later went into The Clarence pub in Greenfield, Saddleworth, and asked the landlord the way to 'the top of the mountain'.

Yesterday, Manchester North Coroner Simon Nelson said his name had been confirmed after police found he had travelled from Lahore to the UK two days before his death.

The day before he was found dead on the moor, Mr Lytton had travelled by train from London to Manchester Piccadilly (pictured)

Now, neighbour Margaret Dias, 81, has shed more light on the tragic tale of the man she lived next door to in Streatham for 34 years.

She told The Sun: 'David was a very quiet, private man. I never saw him with a friend or any visitors  and I definitely didn't see any family.

'We moved here in 1972 and he was in the house then.

'He would just come and go, say "hello", "morning", "goodbye", and that was it.

'I'm so shocked he's died.

'I knew he had gone away when he sold his house but I never knew where.'

CCTV images of a man matching the description of Mr Lytton had revealed his movements from Ealing Broadway station in London on the morning of December 11

The family of Mr Lytton has been informed and a full inquest will take place in March.

Greater Manchester Police said Mr Lytton was from London.

Previously it emerged he had strychnine in his system - a highly toxic substance used in rat poison.

He had also had a 10cm metal plate inserted into his left leg between 2001 and 2015, which indicated the operation would have taken place in Pakistan.

A container of medicine found on his body was also linked to Pakistan.

A number of theories about his identity had been discounted, including speculation that a survivor from a plane crash in 1949 near Indian's Head - the outcrop where he was discovered by a cyclist - that killed 24 people may have made a pilgrimage to the site.

A path that leads to the lay-by where the man's body was found at Dovestone Reservoir on Saddleworth Moor in Greater Manchester

Also a man from Northern Ireland contacted police to say the released image of the mystery man bore a resemblance to his father who had gone missing more than 20 years before, but DNA checks ruled him out.

CHILLING DEATHS ON SADDLEWORTH MOOR Saddleworth Moor, which is situated in the South Pennines, became infamous in the 1960s as the burial site of four victims of Ian Brady and Myra Hindley. The pair lured children and teenagers to their deaths, with their victims sexually tortured before being buried on the moor in Greater Manchester. In 1965, the bodies of Lesley Ann Downey and John Kilbride were discovered at the remote hillside, having been buried there during the previous two years. Saddleworth Moor was also the site of a 1949 plane crash. The twin-engined British European Airways Douglas Dakota plane crashed into the hillside after taking off from Belfast, killing 24. Advertisement

CCTV images of a man matching the description of the man had revealed his movements from Ealing Broadway station in London on the morning of December 11 and on to Euston and Manchester Piccadilly stations.

The next sighting was at The Clarence pub before, at about 4.30pm, in darkness, a motorist spotted him near where he was found the day after, around three-quarters of the way up the hill.

Also found on his body were three train tickets, including a return to London, and 130 in 10 notes.

An inquest in Heywood was told on Thursday that extensive police inquiries led to detectives concentrating on flight data from Pakistan to London.

This uncovered last month that Mr Lytton travelled from Lahore to London Heathrow on December 10 and he appeared to have no return travel arrangements.

The hearing was listed in the name of Neil Dovestones - a nickname reportedly given to him by mortuary workers at Royal Oldham Hospital.

Mr Nelson said he and the investigating officer, Detective Sergeant John Coleman, were 'anxious' the information of Mr Lytton's identity be made public 'without delay'.

But he added: 'There are other areas of inquiry that need to be pursued and they are being pursued in order that I can fulfil my statutory obligations and conclude my inquest in due course.

Mr Lytton went into The Clarence pub in Greenfield, Saddleworth, and asked the landlord the way to 'the top of the mountain'

'I am extremely anxious that the surviving members of the deceased's family be left in peace as such and can come to term with their grievous loss in the days, weeks and months that follow and they not be subjected to any unnecessary intrusion.'

A full hearing will take place at Heywood Coroner's Court on March 14. It is believed DNA taken from a relative of the deceased also matched Mr Lytton's profile.

Greater Manchester Police will reveal further details of its international inquiries - which Mr Nelson praised as 'a highly professional investigative strategy' - tomorrow.

In a statement, the force said: 'After more than a year of painstaking inquiries, which included media appeals being released in the UK and Pakistan, as well as assistance from the National Crime Agency, detectives investigating the mysterious case of 'Neil Dovestones' have made a positive identification.

'At an inquest in Heywood earlier today, senior coroner for Oldham, Mr Simon Nelson confirmed that the true identity of the man found close to Dovestones Reservoir is David Lytton, 67, from London.'
Treasured actor Sir John Hurt was once a world-famous hell-raiser when his life descended into hedonism and alcohol after the tragic death of his fiancee.

The actor, who once boasted that he drank up to seven bottles of wine a night, was famous for partying with other Hollywood bad boys Oliver Reed and Peter O'Toole.

And although he was still an acclaimed actor, landing some of the biggest roles in the industry, he later said that those 'wild' days were a response to the tragedy.

Hurt has had four marriages and a number of colourful relationships, but his longest was with French model Marie-Lise Volpeliere-Pierrot, who died in 1983 in a horse-riding accident

The next year he starred in 1984, an acclaimed role, but he was partying hard at the time, once boasting he drank up to seven bottles of wine a day

Hurt has had four marriages and a number of colourful relationships, but his longest was with French model Marie-Lise Volpeliere-Pierrot, who he met in 1967.

The pair were to be married but tragedy struck when her horse bolted as they were out riding together in Oxford, flinging her into the road.

She landed on her head and fell into a coma, dying that day in 1983. They had been together for 17 years.

Speaking of the days that followed, he later said: 'Drink doesn't make you feel better. It just exacerbates the mood you are in.'

His wild drinking earned him a reputation as a party animal, but he described it as 'a distressed person looking for something he couldn't find'.

And though he has always boasted that he has lived his life in public and has 'never hidden behind closed doors', he has never spoken of the actual tragedy.

The year after it happened, Hurt married an old friend, American actress Donna Peacock, at a local Register Office, in September 1984 (pictured)

Hurt first married actress Annette Robertson, pictured in a play with David Hemmings, in 1962 but it only lasted two years

The year after it happened, Hurt married an old friend, American actress Donna Peacock, at a local Register Office, in September 1984.

It was actually his second marriage after wedding actress Annette Robertson in 1962, which lasted just two years before the pair got divorced.

Hurt and Donna Peacock moved to Kenya but divorced in January 1990, just days before he married his third wife American production assistant Joan Dalton.

They had met on the set of Scandal and had two sons, Alexander 'Sasha' John Vincent Hurt and Nick Hurt, but divorced in 1996.

The marriage was followed by a seven-year relationship with Dublin-born presenter and writer Sarah Owens.

And despite his partying and drinking in the previous decades, he was still one of the biggest names in Hollywood, responsible for some of its most acclaimed performances.

He had appeared in 1984, a movie about George Orwell's book, the year after the death of his fiancee, which was praised by the critics.

But living his life so publicly and those days of heavy drinking have helped him with such an illustrious career, he believes.

'If I have gone over the top sometimes, it has been visible. But it was not a way of life. Otherwise I wouldn't have the CV I've got, would I?' he has previously said.

But he turned his life around later on in life, and married his current wife ten years ago.

He married his third wife American production assistant Joan Dalton after they met on the set of his movie Scandal. They had two children together

John Hurt in Scandal, a movie released in 1989. He divorced Donna Peacock in January 1990, the same month in which he married Joan Dalton

Since then, his reputation in the eyes of the public has changed dramatically, from the 1970s Hollywood bad boy to the national treasure who featured in Harry Potter.

But the industry has also changed immeasurably. In 2012, years after totally giving up drinking, he said: 'Actors don't drink so much now. There were eight of us sitting around the other night and only one was drinking wine.'

Talking about why he stopping drink, John continued: 'It wasn't serving me, and the climate has changed.'

Speaking to the Radio Times in 2015, he added: 'We've become obsessed with the dangers of alcohol  you get newspaper articles that are entirely over the top.

'There's political correctness as well. I wonder who instigated that? Where does it come from, and who says what is or is not politically correct?'

Farewell to a Hollywood legend: Sir John Hurt, who starred in The Elephant Man and Harry Potter, dies aged 77 after a battle with cancer as tributes pour in to 'the most gentlemanly of gentlemen'

Sir John Hurt, who won Oscar nominations for the Elephant Man and captured the hearts of millions for his roles in Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings, has died.

The star, one of Britain's most treasured actors, died aged 77 at his home in Norfolk after a long battle with pancreatic cancer, it was revealed today.

His widow, Anwen Hurt, today said it will be 'a strange world' with out the actor, whose death has prompted an outpouring of grief from the showbusiness industry, with director Mel Brooks and J K Rowling among those paying tribute.

Mrs Hurt added: 'John was the most sublime of actors and the most gentlemanly of gentlemen with the greatest of hearts and the most generosity of spirit. He touched all our lives with joy and magic and it will be a strange world without him.'

Sir John was well known for roles including Quentin Crisp in The Naked Civil Servant, the title role in The Elephant Man and wand merchant Mr Ollivander in the Harry Potter films.

Sir John Hurt, the two-time Oscar nominated star of the Elephant Man, has died, aged 77 after battling with cancer

The Derbyshire-born star has been an enigmatic and much-beloved presence on the screen for more than six decades. He is survived by his wife of 12 years Anwen Rees-Myers (pictured together at Wimbledon last year)

In July 2015 he received a knighthood (pictured left), and said he wished his parents had been alive to see him presented with the honor

Mel Brooks hailed him as a 'truly magnificent talent' while Harry Potter author JK Rowling called him 'immensely talented and deeply beloved'.

Hurt bounced back from pancreatic cancer in October 2015 and signed on to appear in a West End production of The Entertainer, only to pull out on the advice of his doctors after he was taken to the hospital with an intestinal complaint.

Despite revealing that he had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in the summer of 2015, Hurt was matter-of-fact about his mortality.

Speaking to the Radio Times, he said: 'I can't say I worry about mortality, but it's impossible to get to my age and not have a little contemplation of it.

'We're all just passing time, and occupy our chair very briefly,' he said.

In the autumn of 2015, Hurt announced he was in remission and vowed to continue working.

Despite the all-clear, Sir John continued to endure periods of ill health. He suffered intestinal complaints and was forced to withdraw from a West End production of The Entertainer last July.

Hurt, whose death was confirmed by his agent Charles McDonald on Saturday, is survived by wife Anwen Rees-Myers, and sons, Alexander and Nick, from his third marriage with Jo Dalton.

He died on Wednesday, January 25, but had been working on a number of films set for release this year.

In one, That Good Night, he plays a once-famous writer who is terminally ill, perhaps channelling his own experiences.

He is also due to star in a film called Darkest Hour, about the early days of the Second World War. Hurt was due to play Neville Chamberlain alongside Gary Oldman as Winston Churchill, although the movie has not yet finished filming.

His acting aspirations were almost shattered by his headmaster as a young boy, but he plucked up the courage and successfully auditioned for the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London

The English actor, born in Derbyshire in 1940, became a critical and commercial success in films like Midnight Express, Alien and Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy.

The son of a vicar and an engineer, Hurt spent what he described as a lonely childhood at an Anglo-Catholic prep school before he enrolled at a boarding school in Lincoln.

His acting aspirations were almost shattered forever by his headmaster's insistence that he did not stand a chance in the profession.

He left school to go to art college but dropped out, impoverished and living in a dismal basement flat.

He finally plucked up enough courage to apply for a scholarship and auditioned successfully for the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, although he later recalled being so hungry he could hardly deliver his lines.

Hurt played a wide range of characters over the course of 60 years, from a mad Roman emperor to a pimp on the road to stardom; a circus freak, to a heroin-addicted prisoner.

He was best-known for his portrayals of the famously misunderstood and he took an instinctive approach to his craft, believing that method acting was for people with no imagination.

Hurt once told the British film critic Geoff Andrew: 'The only way I can describe it is that I put everything I can into the mulberry of my mind and hope that it is going to ferment and make a decent wine.

'How that process happens, I'm sorry to tell you I can't describe.'

Hurt was born in Chesterfield in 1940. The son of a vicar, Hurt went on to play a wide range of c haracters and was best-known for his portrayals of the famously misunderstood

HURT'S FINAL ROLE AS AN AGING MAN BATTLING TERMINAL ILLNESS The Good Night, starring John Hurt, will be released this year John Hurt will give the world a glimpse of his own experience battling terminal illness in one of his final roles, set for release after his death. In The Good Night, Hurt plays a once-famous screen-writer in his seventies who is desperate to fix his relationship with his son and make sure he is not a burden to his wife before he dies. The character knows his condition is terminal and Hurt will bring a little of his own experience to the role after being diagnosed with cancer in June 2015. Afterwards, he told the Radio Times: 'I can't say I worry about mortality, but it's impossible to get to my age and not have a little contemplation of it.' He beat the disease but was left with health problems, although he continued to work and has a number of projects set for release even after his death. Hurt had been filming for movie the Darkest Hour, in which he was to play the Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain in the early days of World War Two. The all-star cast also included Gary Oldman as Churchill, Kirstin Scott Thomas as Churchill's wife Clementine and Lily James as Elizabeth Nell. The big-budget British movie is still being filmed, it is believed, so it is not yet known if Hurt will appear or if they will have to find someone to replace him. In 2000 classic movie Gladiator, Oliver Reed died unexpectedly of a heart attack during filming so the filmmakers used the footage already shot and a few scenes featured a CGI version of the star. All the other projects Hurt had been working on were already filmed and are set for release next year, including My Name Is Lenny, a biopic on one of Britain's most notorious bare-knuckle boxers, Lenny McLean. Hurt plays Leslie Salmon after stepping in from the now retired Michael Gambon as the character of Leslie Salmon in the movie set for release in February and starring real-life prize fighter Michael Bisping. Hurt will also star in Damascus Cover, alongside Jonathan Rhys Meyers, a movie about an undercover mission in Syria, set for release at some point this year. Gary Oldman as Churchill in the upcoming movie Darkest Hour, in which Jurt was set to play Neville Chamberlain Advertisement

Hurt first rose to fame in A Man For All Seasons in 1966 and later clinched a BAFTA for best supporting actor, along with an Oscar nomination, for playing a drug addict in Midnight Express.

He picked up yet another BAFTA just two years later in 1980 - this time as a leading actor in David Lynch's Elephant Man.

He also received his second Oscar nomination for the performance, which many extolled as Hurt's best, but was beaten to the award by Robert Di Nero with his role in Raging Bull.

The actor also enjoyed immense commercial success, playing Kane in the 1979 blockbuster Alien. The iconic scene in which an alien bursts from his chest won the actor a place in film history.

He later reprised the role in Mel Brooks' parody Spaceballs, and fans went on to compile clips of Hurt's famous last scenes, since the actor gained a reputation for taking on characters who meet their tragic ends.

The star later found a new generation of fans by taking on the role of Garrick Ollivander in the Harry Potter franchise.

Hurt was also known for his work as a voice actor and took his talents to the small screen, where he played a prominent role in Doctor Who, The Naked Civil Servant, and I, Claudius.

Hurt most recently starred in the Oscar-nominated biopic of President John F. Kennedy's widow, Jackie, which is currently showing in cinemas. The film's director Pablo Larrain issued a statement saying: 'John was invincible. Unflinching. Eternal.'

Hurt most recently starred in the Oscar-nominated biopic of President John F. Kennedy's widow, Jackie, which is currently showing in cinemas (above)

SIR JOHN HURT'S GOLDEN CAREER Sir John Hurt was a multi-award winning actor in an illustrious six-decade career Sir John Hurt was a multi-award winning actor in an illustrious six-decade career. He won a Golden Globe and four BAFTA Awards and was also nominated for two Oscars. The Academy Awards nominations were for Best Actor in a Leading Role in The Elephant Man in 1981 and Best Actor in a Supporting Role for his performance in Midnight Express in 1979. He won a Golden Globe in the same category for Midnight Express, where he played the character Max. His acting talents in The Elephant Man, where he plays Londoner John Merrick, saw him nominated for a Golden Globe in the US in the Best Actor in a Motion Picture - Drama category. At the BAFTAs, he won Best Actor in 1976 and 1981 for The Naked Civil Servant and The Elephant Man. He also earned Best Supporting Actor for Midnight Express in 1979 and Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema in 2012. Hurt was nominated for Best Actor in 2010 for An Englishman in New York and Best Supporting Actor in 10 Rillington Place in 1972 and Alien in 1979. Advertisement

In his earlier years, Hurt was notorious for his wild lifestyle and hell-raising antics off-screen.

He famously hurled himself in a drunken rage at a pack of paparazzi, and his picture was often splashed across newspapers.

The actor was married four times but his longest relationship was to French model Marie-Lise Volpeliere-Pierrot, who he met after his first marriage to Annette Robertson.

The pair were together for 16 years but she died in a tragic accident, flung from her horse when they were out riding in Oxford. Hurt saw her hit the ground, after which she fell into a coma and died later that day.

Afterwards, he continued a life of hedonism that earned him a reputation as a hard-partying Hollywood bad boy, although his exciting lifestyle did not solve his problems. He later described himself as 'a distressed person looking for something he couldn't find'.

Sir John once boasted that he drank up to seven bottles of wine a night but he mellowed with age and Hurt, who once described his career as not bad 'for an old drunk', received a string of honors towards the end of his six decade-long career.

He received a lifetime achievement award at the BAFTA awards in 2012, and was knighted by the Queen at Windsor Castle in 2015.

On Saturday, tributes poured in for one of Britain's most formidable and successful actors.

Director Mel Brooks tweeted: 'It was terribly sad today to learn of John Hurt's passing. He was a truly magnificent talent.

'No one could have played The Elephant Man more memorably. He carried that film into cinematic immortality. He will be sorely missed,' he added.

Rowling wrote: 'So very sad to hear that the immensely talented and deeply beloved John Hurt has died. My thoughts are with his family and friends.'

Elijah Wood, who played Frodo Baggins in the Lord of the Rings trilogy, said: 'It was such an honor to have watched you work, sir.'

Bonnie Wright, who played Ginny Weasley in the Harry Potter films, wrote: 'John Hurt. What an acting legend. Rest in peace dear Sir. Wand shopping won't be the same without you.'

Comedian Stephen Fry called the news of Hurt's passing 'terrible news', and wrote: 'We've lost #JohnHurt as great on the stage, small screen and big. A great man & great friend of Norfolk & NCFC', the Norwich City Football Club.

Luke Evans, who worked with Hurt in The Immortals, wrote: 'We shared a trailer and would sit in our loincloths and would tell me story after story of the good old (crazy!) times of film making. I was so new to the business but he spoke to me like and equal, with a kindness and a dignity only a man of his generation possessed. RIP Mr Hurt and thank you for that special memory.'

British actor Alfred Molina said Sir John was 'a gloriously talented actor, one of the best, of this or any era.'

Another British film star, Richard E Grant, wrote on Twitter: 'So so sad to have lost such an extraordinary talent and friend. Sir John Hurt. R. I. P.'

Queen guitarist Dr Brian May also paid tribute, writing: 'What a fabulous actor, splendid voice and venerable human being. How sad to lose him. RIP John Hurt.'

Childline founder and president Dame Esther Rantzen hailed Sir John, who was a fundraiser for the children's charity, saying he had an 'extraordinary career'.

Dame Esther said she approached him after a London theatre performance, some 30 to 40 years after first meeting him when he was a young actor, and he 'immediately agreed' to help the organisation.

She said: 'He understood it was a unique way for children to seek help. There was something in his own past which made him connect with vulnerable children - I believe it happened when he was in school.

'From then on he never turned us down, he spoke at events for us, telling stories of some of the children we had helped, and took part in carol services for us.

'Because he was such a great artist, I remember writing for him and he gave it so much more strength because of the way he told it. He will be a great loss to the children in this country.'

Actress Clare Higgins, who worked with Sir John on Doctor Who, said he was 'the perfect actor' and a 'beautiful gentleman'.

Speaking on BBC Breakfast she said he was acknowledged by all actors as one of the 'greatest'.

'He was simply the most brilliant complete actor. He gave himself to his role.

'John had a real tenderness and gentleness which is quite rare in a male actor.'

She revealed she had spent three days with Sir John at a Doctor Who convention in Los Angeles last year in one of his last public appearances.

'What was so touching and lovely about John was that this wasn't an actor talking to fans, this was a person talking to a person. It was very moving and lovely to watch.'

Chris Evans, who starred in the 2013 film Snowpiercer with Hurt, wrote: 'John Hurt was one of the most powerful, giving and effortlessly real actors I've ever worked with. Remarkable human being. U will be missed.'

Oscar-winning American actress Octavia Spencer worked alongside the veteran actor on post-apocalyptic thriller Snowpiercer and recalled similar memories of his storytelling.

She wrote on Instagram: 'John Hurt was the craft at its finest. It was an honour and a great joy to work with him on Snowpiercer.

'To wile the time away on set, Luca Pasqualino Jamie Bell Tilda Swinton and I would play a crazy card game called s***head. It's English... and yes it's real.

'Anyway, though John and Chris Evans would never play, we'd all convene at our table in base camp and listen to John recount tales of his varied sets throughout the years.

British actor Luke Evans, who starred alongside Hurt on The Immortals, paid tribute to the star

Queen guitarist Brian May praised him for a 'splendid voice' and being a 'venerable human being'

David Morrissey called him a 'generous, funny and intelligent man', paying tribute on Twitter

'I was in awe of him because he always looked regal even though we played unwashed rebels in a post apocalyptic film. I can't explain it.

'Maybe it was the way he held his cigarette, or that English accent. Or, perhaps the kindness he showed us all allowed his nobility to radiate even beneath the layers of grimey makeup and tattered clothes. He was such an interesting man! Miss you, John.'

Walking Dead actor David Morrissey tweeted: 'I loved John Hurt. I worked with him many times. A generous, funny and intelligent man. Brilliant actor. Great storyteller. Going to miss him.'

Actor John Barrowman posted: 'Sir John Hurt showed us that your career can be diverse as the characters you play. So many wonderful performances.'

Richard E Grant wrote: 'So so sad to have lost such an extraordinary talent and friend. Sir John Hurt. R. I. P.'

Film-maker Kevin Smith tweeted: 'Rest in Peace to the actor genius JohnHurt. Most folks know him from ALIEN but I loved him as Sir Richard Rich from A Man for All Seasons.'

Stephen Colbert, a comedian, writer and producer, highlighted the actor's performance as Richard Rich in A Man for All Seasons, calling it 'a paragon of heartbreaking human weakness & model for many characters'.

Actress Jamie Lee Curtis wrote: 'John Hurt. Midnight Express. Nothing better. Ever.'

Keifer Sutherland called Hurt 'a deer friend' and extended his 'deepest sympathies to John Hurt's family, friends and fans'.

Hurt was Joseph Merrick in the Elephant Man and received his second Oscar nomination for his performance, which many extolled as Hurt's best

FROM ALIEN AND THE ELEPHANT MAN TO HARRY POTTER: JOHN HURT'S GENRE-SPANNING ROLES Hurt's turn as John Merrick in The Elephant Man saw him nominated for the biggest prize in Hollywood, an Academy Award Having started off his screen career in BBC police favourite Z Cars back in the sixties in a one-off role, John Hurt soon found his star rising and in 1966 he gained acclaim for his turn in A Man For All Season, playing Rich. Starring alongside the likes of Orsen Welles and Robert Shaw in the period piece about Thomas Moore, Hurt made waves in Hollywood. A stream of iconic roles soon fell into the British star's including his iconic turn in Ridley Scott's 1979 horror classic, Alien, in which Hurt famously died on-screen as an alien 'chestburster' erupted from his sternum  a moment which has gone down in cinematic history. His turn as John Merrick in The Elephant Man the following year saw him nominated for the biggest prize in Hollywood, an Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role. Since then the Derbyshire-born actor remained an enigmatic and much-beloved presence on the screen. Other notable roles for the actor included the lead role in the big screen adaption of George Orwell's 1984 opposite Richard Burton. A stream of iconic roles soon fell into the British star's including his iconic turn in Ridley Scott's 1979 horror classic, Alien In more recent years the actor has made star turns in the likes of the blockbuster Harry Potter series, playing the wandmaker Ollivander from 2001-2011. He also starred in the Oscar-nominated Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy in 2011 alongside Gary Oldman, and even had a turn in the BBC's revamped Doctor Who as the haunted 'War Doctor' in 2013. He was still working up to his death, having been attached to World War II drama Darkest Hour, which saw him playing besieged PM Neville Chamberlain alongside Gary Oldman as Winston Churchill and Ben Mendelsohn as King George VI. Advertisement

Sharon Stone said: 'God speed to John Hurt, a legendary actor and good human being.'

Comic actor David Schneider wrote: 'Sad re John Hurt. I was in a film with him and he was so mesmerising I kept forgetting to act and just watched him. A genius & a lovely man.'

Hurt's private life was at times scarred by disaster. He was married a total of four times.

He married actress Annette Robertson at the age of 22, and the two divorced in the 1960s.

In 1968 he started a relationship with Marie Lise Volpeliere-Porrot, who he called 'love of his life'. After 15 years together, she was killed in a riding accident.

One year after her death, Hurt married US actress Donna Peacock. The marriage only lasted four years, although the two remained good friends.

He married his third wife Jo Dalton in 1990 and they had two sons. But again the marriage ended in divorce in 1995.

Ten years later he wed Anwen Rees-Myers, who has remained at his side for the last decade.
A Mississippi father who pleaded guilty in the hot car death of his baby daughter will be spared prison after his lawyer claimed it would be racist to lock him up.

Joshua Blunt, 26, was handed a five-year suspended sentence on Friday after agreeing to a plea deal with prosecutors that acknowledged that he did not intentionally kill his eight-month-old daughter Shania Rihanna Caradine.

The child died in May of 2016 after being found unconscious in Blunt's 100F car, where she was left while he worked at a restaurant job in Grenada, Mississippi.

Blunt's lawyer claimed that his client, who is African-American, was treated more harshly because of his race and serving any prison time would be racist.

Joshua Blunt, 26, will not go to prison for the death of his eight-month-old daughter Shania Rihanna Caradine, who died when he left her in a hot car in May of 2016. His lawyer claimed that Blunt going to jail would be racist

Blunt forgot his baby in his 100F car while he was working in Grenada, Mississippi. He was facing up to 20 years in prison for manslaughter but took a plea deal

In a very similar case, a white mother was not indicted in August when her two-year-old died in a hot car, just a few days before Shania died.

Amy Bryant's daughter Caroline died when she was left in a car after Bryant forgot to drop her off at daycare before she headed to work.

A grand jury in Madison County decided not to charge her, unlike a jury in Grenada County, 100 miles away, who decided to indict Blunt on charges of manslaughter despite the startling case similarities.

Blunt had forgotten to drop off Shania before he headed to work at a restaurant, leaving the baby inside a 100F car for four hours.

In a very similar case, a white mother was not indicted in August 2016 when her two-year-old died in a hot car, just a few days before Shania died. Blunt's daughter was found unconscious in the overheated car outside 333 Restaurant (pictured) while Blunt worked inside

Surveillance footage shows the moment Blunt and a friend return to the car at the end of his shift to find baby Shania inside unconscious

When he discovered his child in the car, Blunt and a co-worker took Shania inside the restaurant and put cool towels on her to await an ambulance that took her to the University of Mississippi Medical Center Grenada.

Physicians at the hospital tried unsuccessfully for hours to revive the baby and Blunt was arrested and charged for second-degree murder.

It was later was lessened to manslaughter after a grand jury indictment, but that still came with a maximum 20 year prison sentence.

The plea agreement Blunt took means five years of supervised probation and he is a convicted felon now. His lawyer, Carlos Moore, will ask for gubernatorial pardon after the five years, reported WMBF News.

Blunt (right) breaks down as his friend (left) runs off to get help

Mother of Shania, Shanice Caradine (left) is pregnant again with Blunt's (right) child and filed an affidavit in August 2016, asking that the charges be dropped against her now-fiancee

Moore said in a statement on Friday: 'There are no winners here. A child is dead, Mr. Blunt is a convicted felon, and the state did not get Mr. Blunt behind prison bars as it had so desired prior to today.

'I personally am sick and happy at the same time.'

Blunt's fiancee and the mother of Shania, Shanice Caradine, is pregnant, and Moore said Blunt didn't want to risk facing a possible 20-year prison sentence by going to trial.

Shanice said in a sworn court statement in August that she did not think Blunt should be charged in the death of their daughter: 'I honestly believe that it was a tragic accident.'
A superfan has had his dreams of spending eternity with Judy Garland dashed.

Earlier this month, the 'Wizard Of Oz' star's body was flown to Hollywood from New York, where her remains had rested since her death in 1969.

It's a blow to the die-hard fan who'd bought the crypt next to hers, which is now empty, in the Ferncliff Mausoleum in tony Westchester, New York.

And there's a knife-twist of irony to the cross-country re-interment saga.

The man who bought the adjacent crypt 'specifically flew in from California because he is a big fan of hers,' a Ferncliff cemetery manager told The New York Post.

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'Wizard Of Oz' star Judy Garland's body was moved from New York to Hollywood earlier this month, disappointing a fan who'd bought a crypt near hers, which is now empty

Liza Minnelli, shown right with her mother Judy Garland left, reportedly made the decision to move her mother's body from Ferncliff Mausoleum to the Hollywood Forever Cemetery

Judy Garland's New York crypt is shown. The crypt is now empty, to the despair of a fan who paid an estimated $15,500 for an adjacent spot

Garland had been interred in crypt No. 31 in Unit 9 of the mausoleum, where nearby spaces go for up to $15,500.

Garland was found dead in her London home in 1969 at age 47, after a barbiturate overdose.

Her fifth husband, Mickey Deans, made the decision at the time to bury her on the East Coast, rather than Los Angeles.

Ferncliff Mausoleum, where Judy Garland had been interred since 1969. Crypts in the cemetery sell for up to $15,500

The Hollywood Forever Cemetery is on the same block as Paramount Studios, and is one of the oldest cemeteries in Los Angeles

'I didn't want her where tourist buses and that sort of thing go through,' he told The New York Times at Garland's 1969 visitation in Manhattan.

Now, Garland's daughter Liza Minnelli was reportedly behind the decision to move the Golden Era starlet's body to the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, where there is more space for family to be buried nearby.

On the same block as Paramount Studios, the cemetery is one of the oldest in Lost Angeles.

There, Garland now rests among stars including filmmaker Cecil B. DeMille, Beatles guitarist George Harrison, and Ramones bassist Dee Dee Ramone.

If the Garland fan who bought the New York crypt moves forward with his plans to be buried there, it's unclear who his new neighbor in eternity will be, if anyone.

'We haven't decided what to do yet but we think because she's been here so long, we will just leave it here and memorialize her,' the cemetery manager said.
Demonstrators held a massive protest at New York City's JFK airport throughout Saturday after 12 refugees were detained following Donald Trump's immigration ban.

The group was held after flying to the United States following the president's executive order, banning all refugees and citizens from seven predominantly Muslim countries.

One of the Iraqi refugees who was detained for 14 hours, Hameed Khalid Darweesh, had worked for the U.S. government in Iraq for 10 years as a translator, engineer and contractor and had a valid special immigration visa to relocate to America.

The 53-year-old walked free from detention on Saturday afternoon after arriving in America on a flight from Istanbul the night before. The second detainee, Haider Sameer Abdulkhaleq Alshawi, was released around 7 pm Saturday after 24 hours.

A federal court has granted an emergency stay blocking the deportation of migrants detained at airports. The stay came from a petition signed on Darweesh and Alshawi's behalf.

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The massive demonstration carried on through Saturday evening as 11 out of 12 refugees remained held at New York City's JFK airport

The protest followed Donald Trump's executive order barring refugees and citizens from seven countries from entering the United States

Port Authority Police Department blocked an entrance as protesters gathered outside Terminal 4 at JFK airport

A sea of protesters gathered outside of Terminal 4 of JFK after people from muslim countries were detained at border control

Protesters held a massive rally at New York City's JFK airport Saturday after 12 refugees were detained due to the ban

The protest at John F Kennedy International Airport carried on through Saturday as 11 out of 12 people remained detained

'This is illegal': Demonstrators gathered outside JFK Saturday for a long protest after 12 refugees were detained inside

J'accuse: One protester held a sign reading: 'Trump is the terrorist' while another proclaimed: 'This is not how to defeat ISIS!'

One of the JFK protesters demanded more protection for immigrant families, as some were detained around the US

Travelers reported that police stopped allowing people without plane tickets onto the Air Train, which goes to the airport terminals, in the evening (the boarding area is pictured)

Police at one point blocked protesters from accessing the Air Train at JFK but Governor Andrew Cuomo later ordered authorities to let them through

Cuomo said that 'one of the fundamental rights that is granted to the people of this country is the right to peacefully protest' as he ordered police to let demonstrators access the Air Train again

Cab drivers at New York City's JFK airport went on strike for an hour from 6 pm to 7 pm Saturday to protest against the ban

The federal court for the Eastern District of New York issued the stay Saturday evening after the two men were released, after 14 and 24 hours respectively. The ACLU had filed the petition on their behalf, but the stay is effective nationwide.

Under the stay, none of the travelers held at airports across the nation can be sent back. However, the measure doesn't mean they have to be allowed into the country - leaving them in a grey area.

Ten people are still being detained. Alshawi - who was approved for a visa on January 11 - was flying to America to join his wife and son in Texas.

'I'm sleepy and tired and exhausted,' he told the New York Post after being released.

Cabs at the airport went on strike for an hour from 6 pm to 7 pm to protest against the ban.

Travelers reported that police stopped allowing people without plane tickets onto the Air Train, which goes to the airport terminals, during the evening.

Governor Andrew Cuomo, however, ordered authorities to let protesters onto the Air Train, saying in a statement relayed by ABC that 'one of the fundamental rights that is granted to the people of this country is the right to peacefully protest'.

A sea of protesters gathered outside JFK's Terminal 4 as hundreds of demonstrators remained at the airport Saturday night.

Iraqi refugee Hameed Khalid Darweesh (center) walked free from detention at New York's JFK airport on Saturday after being held for 14 hours when he tried to enter the U.S.

President Donald Trump (pictured Saturday) signed an executive order on Friday afternoon providing for 'extreme vetting' of immigrants and visa holders

Protesters gathered outside New York JFK's airport on Saturday after 12 refugees were detained trying to enter the United States under Trump's immigration ban

Earlier on Saturday, Darweesh pumped his fist in the air outside the airport following his release, as a crowd of supporters cheered him on.

'First of all I want to thank the people that take care of me and support me. This is the humility, this is the soul of America,' he told a crowd gathered outside the airport.

'This is what pushed me to move - leave my country and come here. America is the land of freedom America is the greatest nation, the greatest people in the world.'

Asked what he thought of Trump he said: 'I don't know. He's a president, I'm a normal person.'

He was travelling with his wife and three children at the time but they were not detained. They were heading to Charlotte, North Carolina to start their new life in America.

WHO EXACTLY IS BANNED FROM THE U.S? Any non-U.S. citizen from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia or Yemen is now barred from entering the United States. That covers legal permanent residents - green card holders - and visa-holders from those seven countries who were out of the United States after Friday, when President Donald Trump signed an executive order with the temporary ban. They cannot return to the U.S. for 90 days. There's an exemption for immigrants and legal permanent residents whose entry is in the U.S. national interest, but it's unclear how that exemption will be applied. Visa and green card holders already in the U.S. will be allowed to stay. Customs and Border Protection is notifying airlines about passengers whose visas have been canceled or legal residents scheduled to fly back to the U.S. Airlines are being told to keep them off those flights. Source: Associated Press Advertisement

Lawyers for Darweesh and another Iraqi who is still detained at JFK filed a lawsuit on Saturday morning in a bid to have them released.

The two men were on separate flights when immigration officials stopped them on Friday night and took their passports when they landed in New York.

Meanwhile, Cairo airport officials said seven U.S.-bound migrants - six from Iraq and one from Yemen - were prevented from boarding an EgyptAir flight to New York's JFK airport.

The officials said the seven migrants, escorted by officials from the U.N. refugee agency, were stopped from boarding the plane on Saturday after authorities at Cairo airport contacted their counterparts in JFK airport.

The action at Cairo airport was the first there since Trump imposed the three-month ban on refugees.

Dutch airline KLM says it had to turn away seven would-be passengers because they would no longer have been accepted into the United States.

'We would love to bring them there. That's not the problem. It's just that this is what the U.S. sprang on the rest of the world - that these people are no longer welcome,' Manel Vrijenhoek, at KLM's press office, said.

She said the seven, who were from the seven blacklisted countries, were due to fly with KLM from different airports around the world.

It is not clear exactly how many refugees or visa holders are already being detained across the country.

Darweesh was met by crowds of supporters outside JFK airport following his release on Saturday

Protesters assemble at JFK airport on Saturday to protest Trump's arriving refugee ban

Trump, pictured with the executive order on Air Force One on Thursday, has put a 90-day pause on visas and immigration from seven countries including Iraq and Syria

The U.S. has resettled tens of thousands of refugees from warn-torn Syria, something the Trump administration will indefinitely pause out of fears that jihadis will lurk among them

Panic broke out after Department of Homeland Security issued a directive at 4:30 pm on Friday enforcing Trump's executive order to essentially close down the borders to refugees and visa holders from a list of banned Muslim-majority countries.

The Arab-American Anti-Discrimination Committee said there was chaos at airports and in the air following Trump's ban with the organization already receiving calls for help from green card and other visa holders after being refused admission.

'Visas being denied immediately. Chaos at airports and in the air. #MuslimBan will apply to green card holders attempting to return tonight,' the ADC's Abed Ayoub tweeted on Friday night.

WHAT WILL TRUMP'S ANTI-IMMIGRATION ORDER DO? Ban refugee entries from all countries for 120 days. Refugees can be accepted on case-by-case basis, including if they are a religious minority facing religious persecution Block refugee entries from Syria indefinitely. Cap refugee intake at 50,000 per year. Ban visa and immigration entries for 90 days from Muslim-majority countries on banned list, including Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Iran, Libya, Yemen and Somalia. Suspend visa issuance to countries of particular concern. Advertisement

Trump's ban puts a 90-day pause on visas and immigration from seven countries including Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Iran, Libya, Yemen and Somalia.

The order also puts a 120-day ban on all refugee entries into the country and declares that refugees from Syria are not welcome until further notice.

After that period of time, refugees will be accepted only from countries that the State and Homeland Security Departments decide are safe to work with.

It comes as Iran's foreign ministry suggested the country would limit issuing visas to American tourists in retaliation for Trump's suspension of immigration and visas.

The official IRNA news agency carried a statement by the Iranian foreign ministry on Saturday that said Iran will resort to 'counteraction' to Trump's executive order.

'Iran, to defend the dignity of the great Iranian nation, will implement the principle of reciprocity until the removal of the insulting restriction against Iranian nationals,' the statement read.

'It will apply corresponding legal, consular and political actions.'

The two countries have had no diplomatic relations since 1979 when militants stormed the U.S. embassy.

Trump's immigration ban has angered activists (pictured in New York on Friday) with the U.S. banning all refugee entries for 120 days

Google CEO Sundar Pichai urged its staff travelling overseas on Friday to immediately return to the U.S. if they would be affected by the order

Demonstrators took part in a rally in support of Muslims and immigrants in New York on Friday ahead of Trump's executive order

SYRIAN REFUGEE'S DREAM OF MOVING TO U.S. SHATTERED: Syrian refugee Ammar Sawan took his first step toward resettlement in the United States three months ago by submitting to an initial round of security screenings. But his dreams of a better life were crushed when President Donald Trump enforced an indefinite ban on Friday on displaced Syrians entering the United States. Sawan, who is a Syrian refugee living in Amman, Jordan with his family, revealed on Saturday that he learned of Trump's decision from TV news the night before. 'When we heard of the order, it was like a bolt of lightning, and all our hopes and dreams vanished,' the 40 year-old said. The upholsterer, who supports his family with odd jobs in Amman, said he was especially disappointed for his four children who he had hoped would get a good education in the U.S. He and other Syrian refugees in Amman bristled at the idea that they posed a potential security threat, saying they were both shocked and saddened by Trump's ban. 'We tell the American people that we hope he (Trump) retracts this decision,' said 37-year-old refugee Mayada Sheik. 'We are not going out to harm people of other countries.' Advertisement

Google urged its staff travelling overseas on Friday to immediately return to the U.S. if they would be affected by the order.

CEO Sundar Pichai issued a memo slamming Trump's order saying 100 employees were affected, Bloomberg reports.

The tech company feared its employees, even though they have valid visas, would be stopped from returning to the country.

Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg hit out at Trump condemning his anti-immigration bans.

'The United States is a nation of immigrants, and we should be proud of that,' Zuckerberg said.

It follows reports that Muslim-majority countries with ties to Trump's business empire have been excluded from the order, Bloomberg reports.

Statistics show Trump doesn't have any business relations with the seven black-listed countries, but does with Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Turkey.

Trump's order declares that U.S. policy is 'to protect its citizens from foreign nationals who intend to commit terrorist attacks in the United States; and to prevent the admission of foreign nationals who intend to exploit United States immigration laws for malevolent purposes.'

It also gives Homeland Security 60 days to begin providing the president with the names of other countries to add to the list.

The nation will limit the total refugee resettlement numbers to 50,000 per year, according to the order.

It follows reports that Muslim-majority countries with ties to Trump's business empire have been excluded from the order

Trump's executive order declares that the U.S. will 'prioritize refugee claims made by individuals on the basis of religious-based persecution.' But that only applies when 'the religion of the individual is a minority religion in the individual's country of nationality.'

The International Rescue Committee called President Trump's suspension of the U.S. refugee resettlement program a 'harmful and hasty' decision.

In a statement issued late Friday night after the suspension was announced, IRC President David Miliband said: 'America must remain true to its core values. America must remain a beacon of hope.'

The IRC statement declared that the U.S. vetting process for prospective refugees is already robust - involving biometric screening and up to 36 months of vetting by '12 to 15 government agencies.'

Miliband praised U.S.'s record as a resettlement destination and said: 'This is no time for America to turn its back on people ready to become patriotic Americans.'
CCTV footage photo of Laurence French who died on May 25 of a heart attack after being robbed

Two burglars who caused their victim to have a cardiac arrest and die were pinpointed on CCTV thanks to a memorable scene in Coronation Street that was airing during the break-in.

Damien Bishop and Christopher Dalziell are starting jail sentences with a combined total of more than 23 years on charges of manslaughter and robbery.

Their vulnerable victim Laurence French, 50, rushed to a police station to report the incident but suffered a heart-attack and died moments after telling officers of the robbery.

Teesside Crown Court heard how the mugging could only have happened in a three-minute spell inside Mr French's Middlesbrough home because neighbours heard a disturbance - which coincided with a memorable Corrie plot when Street mechanic Tyrone Dobbs crashed his van into the Platt household.

The incident led to the discovery of Callum Logan, who had been killed and buried under an annex by David Platt in the popular soap.

As the fictional killer was undone, it also sealed the fate of Dalziell, 39, and Bishop, 41.

Christopher Dalziell (left) and accomplice Damien Bishop (right) have been jailed after a hearing at Teesside Crown Court

The scene was aired 16 minutes and 30 seconds into the episode on May 25, hitting Britain's screens just after 9.15pm.

It enabled neighbours of Mr French who were watching the soap to pinpoint the time of the commotion next door to a three-minute window in which Dalziell and Bishop were missing from street CCTV cameras.

Two figures in dark clothing were seen arriving at Mr French's home at 9.16pm and leaving at 9.19pm, while the victim left at 9.21pm.

Mr French arrived at the police station at 9.30pm and was said to be 'agitated', waving around his hat, and struggling to speak.

He reported that a jacket, his wallet, money, personal documents, coins, a sentimental ring and other jewellery were stolen during the break-in.

French was described as vulnerable and had an diagnosed heart condition

Mr French then suffered a heart attack after telling officers in Middlesbrough:'I've just been mugged by two men.'

He had been so traumatised by his ordeal at the hands of Damien Bishop and Christopher Dalziell that the stress and anxiety caused the cardiac arrest.

Dalziell was found guilty of manslaughter and robbery, while Bishop was convicted of robbery. He admitted manslaughter.

Corrie star Tyrone Dobbs crashed his van into David Platt's house leading to the discovery of Callum Logan, who had been killed and buried under an annex by Platt

The jury heard during a seven-day trial that Mr French had a previously undiagnosed heart condition.

Footage taken by a police officer on a body-cam at Mr French's home showed there had been a disturbance, said prosecutor Mark Giuliani.

There was a television, still switched on, and an upturned shopping trolley on the floor, alongside other items, the court heard.

Dalziell, of Aire Street, Middlesbrough, was jailed for 13 years; and Bishop, of nearby Apsley Street, was given ten years and four months.
Could Savannah Guthrie be losing her anchor spot on the Today show?

Ever since NBC news announced Megyn Kelly would be joining the team of the long-running morning show, rumors have swirled over who will get pushed to the side.

And now sources claim that Guthrie was told only 30 minutes before NBC announced it was canceling the show's third hour to make room for Kelly.

Insiders claim Megyn Kelly is being groomed to take Savannah Guthrie's anchor chair on the Today Show after it was revealed NBC was canceling the third hour

'Savannah is upset,' a source told Page Six. 'She's not convinced that Megyn doesn't want her job.'

Insiders claim Kelly is being groomed to take Guthrie's anchor chair, which she has held since 2012 after Meredith Vieira left the show.

It has not yet been decided whether Kelly will be hosting the third or fourth hour of the program when she begins in September, sources told Page Six.

The third hour is currently anchored by Al Roker and Tamron Hall, while the fourth hour has been hosted by Hoda Kotb and daytime stalwart Kathie Lee Gifford since its inception a decade ago.

A source claims that Hoda and Kathie Lee will be moved to the 9am slot if Kelly is given their 10am hour.

It was also reported that Hall would be leaving NBC next month, but a network source told DailyMail.com that is not the case.

Roker is said to be continuing his anchor duties from 7 to 9am, but insiders said they are shocked at how the network is treating him.

'Al has been slighted after all these years and proving himself on this hour,' one source told Page Six.

Sources said Guthrie was told only 30 minutes before NBC announced it was canceling the show's third hour to make room for Kelly

Kelly could be taking over Hoda Kotb and Kathie Lee Gifford's timeslot, which they have held since the fourth hour started airing a decade ago

'He was hopeful NBC would do the right thing.'

The uncertainty following NBC's major announcement has allegedly angered many of its biggest morning stars.

'The talent on Today has been left in the dark, and no one knows why there's such disruption when the show is doing so well,' a source said.

Another insider revealed that 'people are pissed'.

'The third hour was beating every syndicated show across the board. They bit off more than they can chew when they hired Megyn.'

Earlier this month, NBC said it had signed Savannah to a 'massive deal that is longer than Megyn's'.

'A lead anchor role at Today isn't part of the conversation for Megyn,' they added.

NBC did not respond to a request for comment from DailyMail.com.

The way they were: Carson Daly, Tamron Hall, Al Roker, Savannah Guthrie, Matt Lauer, Natalie Morales, Willie Geist, Kathie Lee Gifford and Hoda Kotb in 2015

The shakeup rumors come a little less than five years after Today was widely criticized for the insensitive manner in which they sent off longtime anchor Ann Curry after 15 years with the network.

Curry broke down in tears on live television as she told viewers she would not longer be hosting Today alongside Matt Lauer, just one year after she received the much coveted anchor chair.

That move came two months after Today was overtaken in the ratings by Good Morning America, breaking their 16-year streak as the most watched morning news program.

It was revealed earlier this month that Kelly would be leaving Fox News, putting to bed months of speculation regarding what the star host planned to do when her contract was up with the cable news giant.

Not revealed during the big announcement of Kelly's hiring, however, was how much she would be getting paid in her new role at NBC, and just how much Fox News was offering to get her to stay.

Rise and shine: Today was forced to deal with an intense backlash after Ann Curry was taken off the program in 2012

Not a great move: The show had Curry announce she was leaving in a tearful farewell a year after she landed her dream job

It is now being reported that Kelly was looking at a four-year deal worth $100million to stay at Fox News and host The Kelly File, but instead chose to sign with NBC where she will host two shows in addition to special events and make an annual salary of $15million.

That means the NBC offer that Kelly accepted will pay her the same amount she is currently getting at Fox News.

Both Fox News and NBC declined to comment on contract negotiations.

Mediaite reported that Lachlan Murdoch, the Executive Co-Chairman of News Corp and 21st Century Fox, approved a $25million-a-year contract for Kelly in his bid to keep her on the network.

That amount was much higher than the $20million that had been reported elsewhere, and all Kelly has said is that Murdoch gave her a 'generous offer.'

That contract was also for four years according to a source close to Kelly, thereby totaling $100million.

The Los Angeles Times meanwhile spoke to multiple people that were familiar with the negotiations between NBC and Kelly who said the network 'agreed to pay Kelly close to her current salary.'

That would mean that Kelly would be accepting her new post with an annual salary of $15million, which is notably less than the annual salaries of Robin Roberts and Kelly Ripa, who make $18million and $17million respectively at ABC.

Kelly will also make far less than her new co-worker Matt Lauer, who now takes home $25million a year as host of Today.

It was reported last month however that money was not the key issue for Kelly, who instead was looking to have a schedule better suited to her life as a mother to three young children.
Apple CEO Tim Cook has joined Silicon Valley's response to President Trump's immigration ban.

He told staff that the company 'wouldn't exist' without immigration and insisted the firm does not support the policy.

In an email to workers, obtained by Recode, he wrote: 'Apple would not exist without immigration, let alone thrive and innovate the way we do.

Apple CEO Tim Cook has joined Silicon Valley's response to President Trump's immigration ban. He told staff that the company 'wouldn't exist' without immigration and insisted the firm does not support the policy. He is pictured at Trump Tower during a meeting of tech CEOs

'I've heard from many of you who are deeply concerned about the executive order issued yesterday restricting immigration from seven Muslim-majority countries. I share your concerns. It is not a policy we support.'

He then quoted Dr. Martin Luther King in the note to employees: 'In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, 'We may have all come on different ships, but we are in the same boat now.'

He spoke out as Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg and Google CEO Sundar Pichai lead the outcry from business leaders.

Trump signed an order on Friday banning immigrants from seven countries from entering the United States, even if they have already been approved.

But the ban was temporarily overturned on Saturday after the ACLU won a stay in federal court, meaning those affected cannot be deported and sent back to their home countries.

Mark Zuckerberg broke his silence about President Trump's restrictive immigration policies in a heartfelt Facebook post on Saturday evening

On his social media platform, the business mogul wrote of his vehement disagreement with Trump's immigration policies

Zuckerberg broke his silence about President Trump's restrictive immigration policies in a heartfelt Facebook post on Friday evening.

The billionaire wrote of his vehement disagreement with Trump's promise to build a wall at the Mexican border, and his signing of an executive order banning Syrian refugees and preventing immigrants from selected countries from entering the United States.

Zuckerberg, who is married to a first generation immigrant, wrote about his own European nationality and his hope that the nation can come together as one.

He wrote: 'My great grandparents came from Germany, Austria and Poland. Priscilla's parents were refugees from China and Vietnam. The United States is a nation of immigrants, and we should be proud of that.

'Like many of you, I'm concerned about the impact of the recent executive orders signed by President Trump.'

Zuckerberg's wife Priscilla, left, is the child of refugees from China and Vietnam

On Wednesday, Donald Trump kept to his promise to 'build the wall' - signing executive orders that will employ 5,000 new border control officers, 10,000 deportation agents, and remove government funding for sanctuary cities.

Zuckerberg continued: 'We need to keep this country safe, but we should do that by focusing on people who actually pose a threat.

'Expanding the focus of law enforcement beyond people who are real threats would make all Americans less safe by diverting resources, while millions of undocumented folks who don't pose a threat will live in fear of deportation.'

'We should also keep our doors open to refugees and those who need help. That's who we are. Had we turned away refugees a few decades ago, Priscilla's family wouldn't be here today.'

On Friday, Trump signed a second executive order that went into immediate effect, banning Syrian refugees from entering the country.

Since 2011, an estimated 11 million Syrians have been forced to flee their homes for survival after civil war broke out, according to the EU website.

For 120 days, no Syrians will be permitted to enter the United States, and for 90 days, residents of the 'terror-prone' countries of Iran, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Libya, Yemen and Somalia are also banned, CNN said.

This posed an issue for immigrants who were already en route to the country, leading to mass arrests at airports across the nation.

On Friday, Trump signed a second executive order that went into immediate effect, banning Syrian refugees from entering the country

The New York Times reported that a number of legal complaints have since been filed, and when one refugee asked whom he should speak with about the issue, a customs agent told him to 'call Mr Trump'.

Zuckerberg continued: 'That said, I was glad to hear President Trump say he's going to 'work something out' for Dreamers - immigrants who were brought to this country at a young age by their parents.

'Right now, 750,000 Dreamers benefit from the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program that allows them to live and work legally in the US. I hope the President and his team keep these protections in place, and over the next few weeks I'll be working with our team at FWD.us to find ways we can help.

'I'm also glad the President believes our country should continue to benefit from 'people of great talent coming into the country.''

Zuckerberg should know the importance of having highly skilled immigrants in the workforce. Facebook, as with many other companies, employs engineers from around the world to program their technology.

Many Facebook users were quick to respond to the billionaire's message, with a clear divide between those supporting and criticizing his statements.

Many Facebook users were quick to respond to the billionaire's message, with a clear divide between those supporting and criticizing his statements

Zuckerberg wrote that he was glad Trump agreed to 'work something out' for 'Dreamers' protected by the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program

Zuckerberg spoke of his European heritage and his hope that we can all come together as Americans

Though the responses were generally positive, many criticized Zuckerberg for his 'hypocritical' statements about Trump's wall, given the fact that he recently constructed a wall around his $100 million home in Hawaii.

Many also argued that Trump is not opposing, immigration, but just wants to promote legal immigration.

One user wrote: 'Our families came into this country and went through the process to become citizens and or at the very least documented.'

Though the responses were generally positive, many criticized Zuckerberg for his 'hypocritical' statements about Trump's wall

Many also argued that Trump is not opposing, immigration, but just wants to promote legal immigration

One user wrote: 'Our families came into this country and went through the process to become citizens and or at the very least documented'

The CEO finished his emotive letter, stating: 'These issues are personal for me even beyond my family. A few years ago, I taught a class at a local middle school where some of my best students were undocumented. They are our future too.

'We are a nation of immigrants, and we all benefit when the best and brightest from around the world can live, work and contribute here.

'I hope we find the courage and compassion to bring people together and make this world a better place for everyone.'

Meanwhile, Google is urgently calling back employees from overseas.

CEO Sundar Pichai said Trump's move affects at least 187 members of the company's staff.

Bloomberg News obtained a copy of Pichai's memo to employees, which read: 'It's painful to see the personal cost of this executive order on our colleagues.

'We've always made our view on immigration issues known publicly and will continue to do so.'

'We're concerned about the impact of this order and any proposals that could impose restrictions on Googlers and their families, or that could create barriers to bringing great talent to the U.S.,' Google, part of Alphabet Inc, said in a statement. 'We'll continue to make our views on these issues known to leaders in Washington and elsewhere.'

One Google employee of Iranian nationality with legal U.S. residency made it back to the United States just hours before the order took effect, the executive said.

Microsoft said in a statement: 'We share the concerns about the impact of the executive order on our employees from the listed countries, all of whom have been in the United States lawfully, and we're actively working with them to provide legal advice and assistance.'

Google CEO Sundar Pichai said Trump's move affects at least 187 members of staff

Microsoft CEO, Satya Nadella wrote on LinedIn: 'As an immigrant and as a CEO, I've both experienced and seen the positive impact that immigration has on our company, for the country, and for the world. We will continue to advocate on this important topic.'

A lengthy email to Microsoft employees on Saturday included the lines: 'We're aware of 76 Microsoft employees who are citizens of these countries and have a U.S. visa and are therefore affected by this new Order.

'We've already contacted everyone in this group. But there may be other employees from these countries who have U.S. green cards rather than a visa who may be affected, and there may be family members from these countries that we haven't yet reached.'

Uber CEO, Travis Kalanick sent an email to employees, which he then posted on Facebook. It reads: 'Our People Ops team has already reached out to the dozen or so employees who we know are affected: for example, those who live and work in the U.S., are legal residents but not naturalized citizens will not be able to get back into the country if they are traveling outside of the U.S. now or anytime in the next 90 days.

'This order has far broader implications as it also affects thousands of drivers who use Uber and come from the listed countries, many of whom take long breaks to go back home to see their extended family.

'These drivers currently outside of the U.S. will not be able to get back into the country for 90 days. That means they will not be able to earn a living and support their familiesand of course they will be separated from their loved ones during that time.

'We are working out a process to identify these drivers and compensate them pro bono during the next three months to help mitigate some of the financial stress and complications with supporting their families and putting food on the table.'

Brian Chesky, co-founder and CEO of Airbnb, tweeted: 'Open doors brings all of US together. Closing doors further divides US. Let's all find ways to connect people, not separate them.'

Rideshare company, Lyft, issued a statement to Buzzfeed through its CEO, Logan Green. It read: 'Throughout our history, Lyft has worked hard to create an inclusive, diverse and conscientious community where all of our drivers and passengers feel welcome and respected.

'Banning people of a particular religion from entering the U.S. is antithetical to both Lyft's and our nation's core values.'
A male Georgetown University student was kidnapped by a man in a suit who forced him into an SUV in the middle of the day in a Washington DC street.

The kidnapper drove the student around for two hours and forced him to try and withdraw money from ATM machines and use his credit cards at high-end stores.

Surveillance cameras captured chilling footage of the kidnapper and the student at what appears to be a jewelry store on Thursday.

This suited man was captured on surveillance footage at a jewelry store after he kidnapped a Georgetown student (pictured left) to try and purchase high-end items on his credit cards

Authorities said the kidnapper drove the student around for two hours and forced him to try and withdraw money from ATM machines and use his credit cards at high-end stores in DC

Footage shows the two men walking into the store, the student still carrying his backpack as the man in a suit looks at the jewelry behind the glass display cases

Footage shows the two men walking into the store, the student still carrying his backpack as the man in a suit looks at the jewelry behind the glass display cases.

The man says something to the student before pointing at one item to the jeweler.

At one point the two men sit down in chairs as the jeweler hands over what appears to be a form they need to fill out.

The kidnapper offers the pen to the student, who doesnt take it, and then begins to write something down.

As they wait for the jeweler, the kidnapper appears nervous as he looks around the room and fidgets in his chair.

They then walk out of the store empty-handed and back into the kidnappers light gray or silver SUV.

The student told police that he had first been approached on a residential street by the suspect in the upscale Georgetown district around 3.20pm.

Multiple times in the footage the suited man is seen speaking to the student, who spends most of the time looking down on his phone

He said the man in the suit 'asked him for money' and the student 'hesitated to answer', according to ABC News.

In that split second the man grabbed the student by the arm 'and pulled him into his car', the police report states.

The student told investigators that the man drove him to several ATM machines and two different stores in the area.

He forced the student to try and withdraw money from his bank account and purchase high-end merchandise with his credit card.

After all the transactions were declined, the suspect fled the scene in his car.

The student, who filed a police report around 9.30pm that night, did not sustain any injuries during the two-hour abduction.

He also did not report seeing the man with a weapon.

The suspect remains at large and police released the surveillance footage on Friday as they continue to search for answers regarding the mysterious abduction.

At one point the two men sit down in chairs as the jeweler hands over what appears to be a form they need to fill out for the purchase

The two men later leave the store empty-handed, the student trailing behind his abductor. Police said all attempted transactions on the student's cards had failed

Both men were seen leaving the jewelry store in this white SUV on Thursday afternoon

Authorities describe the suspect as a white male in his late thirties to forties, with dark-colored hair and a mustache and beard.

The suspect, believed to be from 5ft 9in to 6ft, was last seen wearing a black suit, black shirt, gray neck tie and black shoes.

Georgetown University alerted the campus about the incident on Friday and confirmed the victim was a student at the school.

The school also revealed the Georgetown Police Department was 'coordinating with Metropolitan Police Department to increase patrols in the area'.

Georgetown students were shocked that something like that could happen right by their campus, on a street just blocks away from John Kerry and Madeline Albright's homes.

The student was abducted near campus on this street, just blocks away from the homes of former Secretary of States John Kerry and Madeline Albright

'It's very highly unusual for this area,' student Austin Szabo told WJLA.

'You hear about a lot of burglaries, people stealing laptops from unlocked rooms, but never anything about kidnapping with a guy in a suit involved.'

'It makes you think about your safety on campus,' added Princess Adentan. 'Or near campus for that matter.'

Metropolitan police are providing a $1,000 reward for any information that could lead to an arrest of the suspect.

Anyone who has information regarding this case should call police at 202-727-9099.
A single mother who was given six months to live after being diagnosed with cancer is desperately trying to find her disabled daughter a new mum.

Vicky Pickard, 44, was told she had pancreatic cancer and later learned that doctors believed she had less than a year left.

Miss Pickard, from Laindon, Essex, has now dedicated the time she has left to finding her disabled daughter, Jessica, 19, a new mother.

Her daughter was diagnosed with an extremely rare genetic disorder called Toriello-Carey syndrome, and became only the seventh person in the world to have it.

Vicky Pickard (left) quit her job so she could look after her 19-year-old daughter Jessica (right)

She needs around-the-clock care and Ms Pickard is devoting her time to ensure she finds someone to look after her, reports Marie Lunn at the Daily Mirror.

A GoFundMe page was set up by her friend who described her as the 'most amazing, incredible and kind individual'.

Her friend is trying to raise 10,000 so Ms Pickard and her daughter can enjoy the time they have left together and to 'relieve some of the financial burden of creating lasting memories'.

Miss Pickard, who gave up a job as a clinical support worker to be a full-time carer, told the Mirror: 'Jess is the most amazing young lady. She's 19 but she's dependent 24 hours a day on help.

'She has brain abnormalities, heart defects and weak muscle tone, she's epileptic and she's on the autism spectrum.'

Social care charity, Guideposts, is helping Miss Pickard with the search and she ideally she wants someone who knows Jessica to come forward.

She added: 'We met a lovely family through Guideposts but they lived too far away. I'm an only child so I don't have siblings.

'I don't want to pressurise anyone but I'd love a family who Jessica might already know. And it's important Jess is near my Mum and Dad and all her friends.

Miss Pickard, from Laindon, Essex, has now dedicated the time she has left to finding her disabled daughter, Jessica, 19, new mother

'We also have a Children With Disabilities social worker and she has been an amazing support.

'If we can't find someone who already knows Jess, then we need a family local to Basildon, Billericay or Chelmsford who are caring and gentle, with a silly sense of humour that would match her personality.'

The fundraising page was set up by her close friends after Miss Pickard was too ill to take Jessica to Disneyland Paris.

All proceeds will be split between Pancreatic Cancer UK, St Luke's Hospice in Basildon.

Her friend wrote: 'Vicky has been a single mum to Jess her entire life, and now with terminal cancer is having to go through the horrendous process of managing her own terminal illness, whilst simultaneously trying to find her gorgeous disabled daughter another forever family.

'With time against us, the most important thing for her friends and family to focus on right now is helping Vicky create some incredible and lasting memories with Jess.'

They have managed to raise almost 3,000 of the 10,000 target on the GoFundMe page.
An Iranian director nominated for an Oscar may not be able to attend the Hollywood award ceremony after Donald Trump signed off on his tough new immigration bans.

Asghar Farhadi is nominated in the best foreign film category for his movie The Salesman but there are fears he may now not be able to attend next month's Academy Awards.

His native Iran, which is where The Salesman was filmed, is one of seven countries listed in Trump's executive order that has placed a 90-day pause on visas and immigration to the U.S.

The fallout from Trump's immigration crackdown grew on Saturday as a number of non-American citizens realized they were now barred from the country where they were studying or had lived, perhaps for years.

It comes as seven refugees bound for the U.S. were stopped from boarding a plane in Cairo on Saturday and 12 migrants were detained in New York overnight because they arrived just after the executive order was signed.

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Award-winning Iranian director Asghar Farhadi, who is nominated for an Oscar for his film The Salesman, won't be able to attend after Donald Trump introduced tough new immigration bans

Trita Parsi, president of the National Iranian American Council, tweeted on Saturday morning that Farhadi would be banned from attending the Oscars in what has become yet another fallout from Trump's immigration bans.

'Iran's Asghar Farhadi won't be let into the US to attend Oscar's. He's nominated for best foreign language film... #MuslimBan,' he wrote.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which puts on the Oscars, said: 'The Academy celebrates achievement in the art of filmmaking, which seeks to transcend borders and speak to audiences around the world, regardless of national, ethnic, or religious differences.

'As supporters of filmmakers-and the human rights of all peoplearound the globe, we find it extremely troubling that Asghar Farhadi, the director of the Oscar-winning film from Iran A Separation, along with the cast and crew of this years Oscar-nominated film The Salesman, could be barred from entering the country because of their religion or country of origin.'

However, he was given slight hope on Saturday night when the American Civil Liberties Union won a stay on the ban.

Panic broke out after Department of Homeland Security issued a directive at 4.30pm on Friday enforcing Trump's executive order to close down the borders to refugees and visa holders from a list of banned Muslim-majority countries.

In addition to Iran, the other countries on Trump's blacklist are Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Libya, Yemen and Somalia.

An Iranian-born actress who stars in Farhadi's The Salesman vowed to boycott the Oscars over Trump's immigration bans.

Taraneh Alidoosti, the 33-year-old known as the Natalie Portman of Iran, took to Twitter with a message for fans on Thursday.

'Trump's visa ban for Iranians is racist. Whether this will include a cultural event or not, I won't attend the #AcademyAwards 2017 in protest,' she tweeted.

Farhadi won an Oscar in 2012 for his film A Separation.

Asghar Farhadi is nominated in the best foreign film category for his film The Salesman, which was filmed in his native Iran

Trita Parsi, president of the National Iranian American Council, tweeted on Saturday morning that Farhadi would be banned

President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Friday afternoon providing for 'extreme vetting' of immigrants and visa holders

The visa ban sparked fear for some refugees who were already on their way to the U.S. when the order came into effect and were detained on arrival.

Hameed Khalid Darweesh, one of the Iraqi refugees who was detained for 14 hours at New York, was released on Saturday afternoon.

The 53-year-old had arrived in America on a flight from Istanbul on Friday night, just hours after Trump implemented the immigration ban.

He had worked for the U.S. government in Iraq for 10 years as a translator, engineer and contractor and had a valid special immigration visa to relocate to America.

Darweesh pumped his fist in the air outside the airport following his release, as a crowd of supporters cheered him on.

'First of all I want to thank the people that take care of me and support me. This is the humility, this is the soul of America,' he told a crowd gathered outside the airport.

'This is what pushed me to move - leave my country and come here. America is the land of freedom America is the greatest nation, the greatest people in the world.'

Asked what he thought of Trump he said: 'I don't know. He's a president, I'm a normal person.'

He was travelling with his wife and three children at the time but they were not detained. They were heading to Charlotte, North Carolina to start their new life in America.

Protesters assemble at JFK airport on Saturday to protest Trump's arriving refugee ban

Protesters gathered outside New York JFK's airport on Saturday after 12 refugees were detained trying to enter the United States under Trump's immigration ban

The Iranian star of Oscar-nominated film The Salesman has already said she is boycotting the Oscars in protest at President Donald Trump's 'racist' ban on Muslim immigrants

Lawyers for Darweesh and another Iraqi Haider Sameer Abdulkhaleq Alshawi, who is still detained at JFK, filed a lawsuit on Saturday morning in a bid to have them released.

The two men were on separate flights when immigration officials stopped them on Friday night and took their passports when they landed in New York.

Alshawi - who was approved for a visa on January 11 - was flying to America to join his wife and son in Texas.

WHO EXACTLY IS BANNED FROM THE U.S? Any non-U.S. citizen from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia or Yemen is now barred from entering the United States. That covers legal permanent residents - green card holders - and visa-holders from those seven countries who were out of the United States after Friday, when President Donald Trump signed an executive order with the temporary ban. They cannot return to the U.S. for 90 days. There's an exemption for immigrants and legal permanent residents whose entry is in the U.S. national interest, but it's unclear how that exemption will be applied. Visa and green card holders already in the U.S. will be allowed to stay. Customs and Border Protection is notifying airlines about passengers whose visas have been canceled or legal residents scheduled to fly back to the U.S. Airlines are being told to keep them off those flights. Source: Associated Press Advertisement

Eleven other refugees are still being held at JFK airport. Protesters gathered outside the airport on Saturday in anger over those being held in detention.

Cairo airport officials said seven U.S.-bound migrants - six from Iraq and one from Yemen - were prevented from boarding an EgyptAir flight to New York's JFK airport.

The officials said the seven migrants, escorted by officials from the U.N. refugee agency, were stopped from boarding the plane on Saturday after authorities at Cairo airport contacted their counterparts in JFK airport.

The action at Cairo airport was the first there since Trump imposed the three-month ban on refugees.

Dutch airline KLM says it had to turn away seven would-be passengers because they would no longer have been accepted into the United States.

'We would love to bring them there. That's not the problem. It's just that this is what the U.S. sprang on the rest of the world - that these people are no longer welcome,' Manel Vrijenhoek, at KLM's press office, said.

She said the seven, who were from the seven blacklisted countries, were due to fly with KLM from different airports around the world.

It is not clear how many refugees or visa holders are already being detained across the country.

Hameed Khalid Darweesh, who had worked as a interpreter with the U.S. Army in Iraq, was released from detention on Saturday. He was detained after flying into New York on Friday night

The Arab-American Anti-Discrimination Committee said there was chaos at airports and in the air following Trump's ban with the organization already receiving calls for help from green card and other visa holders after being refused admission.

'Visas being denied immediately. Chaos at airports and in the air. #MuslimBan will apply to green card holders attempting to return tonight,' the ADC's Abed Ayoub tweeted on Friday night.

Trump's ban puts a 90-day pause on visas and immigration from seven countries including Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Iran, Libya, Yemen and Somalia.

The order also puts a 120-day ban on all refugee entries into the country and declares that refugees from Syria are not welcome until further notice.

WHAT WILL TRUMP'S ANTI-IMMIGRATION ORDER DO? Ban refugee entries from all countries for 120 days. Refugees can be accepted on case-by-case basis, including if they are a religious minority facing religious persecution Block refugee entries from Syria indefinitely. Cap refugee intake at 50,000 per year. Ban visa and immigration entries for 90 days from Muslim-majority countries on banned list, including Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Iran, Libya, Yemen and Somalia. Suspend visa issuance to countries of particular concern. Advertisement

After that period of time, refugees will be accepted only from countries that the State and Homeland Security Departments decide are safe to work with.

It comes as Iran's foreign ministry suggested the country would limit issuing visas to American tourists in retaliation for Trump's suspension of immigration and visas.

The official IRNA news agency carried a statement by the Iranian foreign ministry on Saturday that said Iran will resort to 'counteraction' to Trump's executive order.

'Iran, to defend the dignity of the great Iranian nation, will implement the principle of reciprocity until the removal of the insulting restriction against Iranian nationals,' the statement read.

'It will apply corresponding legal, consular and political actions.'

The two countries have had no diplomatic relations since 1979 when militants stormed the U.S. embassy.

Google urged its staff travelling overseas on Friday to immediately return to the U.S. if they would be affected by the order.

CEO Sundar Pichai issued a memo slamming Trump's order saying 100 employees were affected, Bloomberg reports.

The tech company feared its employees, even though they have valid visas, would be stopped from returning to the country.

Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg hit out at Trump condemning his anti-immigration bans.

'The United States is a nation of immigrants, and we should be proud of that,' Zuckerberg said.

Emotional: Muslim travelers were nervous as they arrived in JFK today as chaos was apparent over the enforcement of Trump's immigration executive order

Permitted: Tourists were permitted from Dubai which is not a country on Trump's anti-terror list

Uncertainty: Many have been left unsure of where they stand in relation to the new rules which denies entry even to Green Card holder from the seven banned states

It follows reports that Muslim-majority countries with ties to Trump's business empire have been excluded from the order

Google CEO Sundar Pichai urged its staff travelling overseas on Friday to immediately return to the U.S. if they would be affected. Zuckerberg also penned a post opposing the ban

It follows reports that Muslim-majority countries with ties to Trump's business empire have been excluded from the order, Bloomberg reports.

Statistics show Trump doesn't have any business relations with the seven black-listed countries, but does with Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Turkey.

Trump's order declares that U.S. policy is 'to protect its citizens from foreign nationals who intend to commit terrorist attacks in the United States; and to prevent the admission of foreign nationals who intend to exploit United States immigration laws for malevolent purposes.'

It also gives Homeland Security 60 days to begin providing the president with the names of other countries to add to the list.

The nation will limit the total refugee resettlement numbers to 50,000 per year, according to the order.

Trump's executive order declares that the U.S. will 'prioritize refugee claims made by individuals on the basis of religious-based persecution.' But that only applies when 'the religion of the individual is a minority religion in the individual's country of nationality.'
Nathan Waterman, 28, (pictured) punched a businessman while on board a P&O ferry from Hull to Rotterdam

A drunken fouled-mouth yob punched a businessman so hard he knocked him over the railings of a luxury 90million P&O ferry before his friend called him a 'P*** b******, a court heard.

Nathan Waterman, 28, caused severe disruption to 500 passengers on the P&O North Sea mini cruise from Hull to Rotterdam.

The vessel had to stop while unconscious businessman Sabah Bilbassi was airlifted by a rescue hospital back to the UK.

Waterman, a fish filleter began drinking heavily on the Pride of Hull mini cruise from after teaming up with a Grimsby pub mate and began insulting passengers.

The court heard Waterman ran at Kurdish businessman Mr Bilbassi and shouted abuse before throwing a single punch which knocked him totally off deck nine.

Mr Bilbassi was terrified as he flew through the air and was catapulted off the back of the boat's sun deck.

Miraculously he was blown back - landing unconscious on a closed crew deck 20ft below.

The ship's captain had to arrange from Mr Bilbassi to be air-lifted off the ferry to Hull Royal Infirmary. He suffered a fractured cheek bone and right rib.

Eleven months after the assault he is still on anti-depressants and is awaiting dental and facial surgery.

Waterman of Grimsby, appeared at Hull Crown Court for sentencing after pleading guilty to a single charge of causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

His friend, builder Haithm Saleh, 25, also of Grimsby, pleaded guilty to a charge of racially aggravated section five public order.

Crown barrister David Gordon said Sabah Bilbassi and his friend Darawan Amin had boarded the ferry on February 20 last year.

Waterman (pictured) began drinking heavily on the Pride of Hull mini cruise from after teaming up with a Grimsby pub mate

They had showered, changed and gone to the sun deck for a cigarette when they noticed the Grimsby men.

He told the court that Waterman approached and said: 'Alright lads! Where are you from? Get me some salt and vinegar crisps!'

They thought it was odd and walked away but five minutes later they heard shouting from the pair.

Mr Bilbassi had his back to the ship and was perched on a white safety rail. His friend was standing next to him.

Mr Gordon added: 'Mr Amin said the defendant approached at speed. He was shouting obscenities including: "'I'll knock you out!" and "I am gangster from Bransholme!"

Without warning, he punched Mr Bilbassi on the jaw which caused Mr Bilbassi to fall backwards over the railing - down on to the crew deck.

He added: 'In state of shock Mr Amin threw a punched and missed. The men ran off. Mr Amin went down to discover Mr Bilbassi laid out with severe injuries.'

Builder Haithm Saleh, 25, (pictured) also of Grimsby, pleaded guilty to a charge of racially aggravated section five public order

Fellow passengers located Waterman and Saleh in their cabin and they were put in handcuffs and taken to the ships cell.

Both were refused entry to Rotterdam and taken back to Hull to be arrested by Humberside Police.

Waterman swore and Saleh referred to the men as: 'P*** b******', the court heard.

In a victim impact statement, Mr Bilbassi said his life had changed drastically and that he could not feel anything in his right cheek.

Simon Godfre, defending, said Mr Waterman accepted he was going to prison and said: 'This was a single punch. Yes the man fell over the railing.

'Mr Waterman was acting in the moment, he stood up and swung out and hit this man. It was instinctive and alcohol-fuelled. He is deeply remorseful for it. He wishes through me to formally apologise to his victim.'

Judge Jeremy Richardson, QC, sentencing, told Waterman: 'Your conduct was outrageous.

'It was alcohol-fuelled serious violence visited upon an innocent member of the public.

'You are a terrible example to your family. When arrested you uttered other vile language.

'Mr Bilbassi's life had been changed. He has to endure corrective surgery. He has been unable to go out for long time and is now afraid of seeing people when he is out.

'I do not ignore this took place on a passenger ship in front of other passengers who must have been appalled.'

He jailed Waterman for four and a half years. Saleh was fined 450 and ordered to pay 450 costs.'
Malala Yousafzai, the 19-year-old Nobel Peace Prize laureate, is the latest to join a chorus of critics against President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown, with Jewish groups also raising outcry over the timing of the move.

'I am heartbroken that today President Trump is closing the door on children, mothers and fathers fleeing violence and war,' Yousafzai said in a statement on Friday.

Yousafzai, a British resident, drew global acclaim as a human rights activist when, in Pakistan at age 15, she was shot in the head by Taliban assassins over her advocacy for women's education.

'I am heartbroken that America is turning its back on a proud history of welcoming refugees and immigrants,' the young activist said of Trump's recent immigration order, which bans refugee entries to the U.S. for the next four months.

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Malala Yousafzai is shown delivering a speech to the United Nation in April 2016. Yousafzai spoke out against Trump's immigration order on Friday

Trump, pictured with the executive order on Air Force One on Thursday, has put a 90-day pause on visas and immigration from seven countries including Iraq and Syria

Holocaust survivor Michel Margosis (right),light a memorial candle at ceremony in the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum on Friday. Jewish groups are criticizing Trump for announcing a ban on refugee entries on Holocaust Remembrance Day

'In this time of uncertainty and unrest around the world, I ask President Trump not to turn his back on the worlds most defenseless children and families,' the statement said.

A wide range of Jewish groups were also outspoken about the immigration order, which went into effect on Friday, the anniversary of the Allied liberation of the Nazi's Auschwitz concentration camp.

The date is memorialized as International Holocaust Remembrance Day.

'It is a terrible irony that today, the same day on which this order is to be signed, is also International Holocaust Remembrance Day,' the liberal Jewish group J Street said in a statement.

Holocaust survivors stand for prayers during the United Nations Holocaust Memorial Ceremony on Friday. Trump's immigration order, signed the same day, 'evokes horrible memories among American Jews,' one Jewish group said

'The fact that President Trumps order appears designed to specifically limit the entry of Muslims evokes horrible memories among American Jews of the shameful period leading up to World War Two, when the United States failed to provide a safe haven for the vast majority of Jews in Europe trying to escape Nazi persecution,' the statement said.

Trump's ban puts a 90-day pause on visas and immigration from seven countries including Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Iran, Libya, Yemen and Somalia.

The order also puts a 120-day ban on all refugee entries into the country and declares that refugees from Syria are not welcome until further notice.

'History will look back on this order as a sad moment in American history  the time when the president turned his back on people fleeing for their lives,' Anti-Defamation League CEO Jonathan A. Greenblatt said in a statement.

'Yes, we need strict screening but our current system is sufficient in keeping America safe,' Greenblatt added.

The U.S. has resettled tens of thousands of refugees from warn-torn Syria, something the Trump administration will indefinitely pause out of fears that jihadis will slip in (file photo)

President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Friday afternoon providing for 'extreme vetting' of immigrants and visa holders

The president addressed the topic of the Holocaust in a statement acknowledging Holocaust remembrance day.

'It is impossible to fully fathom the depravity and horror inflicted on innocent people by Nazi terror,' he said Friday.

'In the name of the perished, I pledge to do everything in my power throughout my Presidency, and my life, to ensure that the forces of evil never again defeat the powers of good.'

Trump's immigration order declares that U.S. policy is 'to protect its citizens from foreign nationals who intend to commit terrorist attacks in the United States; and to prevent the admission of foreign nationals who intend to exploit United States immigration laws for malevolent purposes.'

It also gives Homeland Security 60 days to begin providing the president with the names of other countries to add to the list.

The nation will limit the total refugee resettlement numbers to 50,000 per year, according to the order.

WHAT WILL TRUMP'S ANTI-IMMIGRATION ORDER DO? Ban refugee entries from all countries for 120 days. Refugees can be accepted on case-by-case basis, including if they are a religious minority facing religious persecution Block refugee entries from Syria indefinitely. Cap refugee intake at 50,000 per year. Ban visa and immigration entries for 90 days from Muslim-majority countries on banned list, including Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Iran, Libya, Yemen and Somalia. Suspend visa issuance to countries of particular concern. Advertisement

Trump's executive order declares that the U.S. will 'prioritize refugee claims made by individuals on the basis of religious-based persecution.' But that only applies when 'the religion of the individual is a minority religion in the individual's country of nationality.'

Visa, green card holders and refugees had already been blocked from entering the United States just hours after Trump signed an executive order introducing his tough new immigration bans.

Seven migrants - six from Iraq and one from Yemen - were stopped from boarding a flight from Cairo on Saturday, while at least two Iraqis were detained after flying in to New York's JFK airport on Friday night.

Two Iraqi refugees, including one who had worked for the U.S. government in Iraq for 10 years, were detained at New York's JFK airport on Friday, The New York Times reports.

The two men were on separate flights when immigration officials stopped them.

One was released on Saturday.
Temperatures are due to rocket from freezing tonight to a positively balmy 12C in London on Tuesday.

Treacherous ice and fog has brought chaos this month, with hundreds of flights cancelled and scores of crashes on the countrys roads.

But while the ice is set to disappear by Monday, conditions will remain unsettled with plenty of wind and rain.

Temperatures are due to rocket from freezing tonight to 12C in London on Tuesday. Surfers were out in force on Brighton Beach despite the chilly conditions

Treacherous ice and fog has brought chaos this month, with hundreds of flights cancelled and scores of crashes on the countrys roads

But while the ice is set to disappear by Monday, conditions will remain unsettled with plenty of wind and rain. Pictured: A competitor at the cold water swimming championships in Tooting

Although tonight will still be frosty and icy, there will be warmer weather ahead into the early stages of next week

Met Office forecaster Emma Sillitoe said: 'Tonight we could see frost or icy patches, getting down to 1C in London and freezing in the Midlands.

'Into Monday morning we lose the risk of frost and ice in most places, except for the North East.

'Most places by day getting up to double digits, up to 12C in London on Tuesday.'

But she warned to expect rain, adding: 'Monday will largely be damp with light rain and drizzle in most places.

'There will be a band of heavier rain moves into the west on Tuesday and in onto Wednesday.

'Wednesday will largely be dry and bright. Then the middle of February will generally be unsettled and mild, with the heaviest rain in the north and west.'

Met Office forecaster Emma Sillitoe said: 'Tonight we could see frost or icy patches, getting down to 1C in London and freezing in the Midlands'

She added: 'Into Monday morning we lose the risk of frost and ice in most places, except for the North East'

But she warned to expect rain, adding: 'Monday will largely be damp with light rain and drizzle in most places'

Temperatures in the north of England dropped as low as -2C today, with snow on the hills.

The forecast will come as welcome news after ice hit the country yesterday morning - causing more chaos for commuters battling to get to work.

The yellow weather warning for ice was in place until 10am.

Police said there had been a spate of crashes on treacherous roads, including a pile-up which blocked the A252 at Chilham, Kent, where at least one car ended up on its roof.

Train services in Norfolk and Kent were also disrupted.

Temperatures in the north of England dropped as low as -2C today, with snow on the hills
Two teenage boys who allegedly plotted a 'Columbine-style' mass shooting were pictured smiling in their yearbook photos, as it is revealed one wore Nazi gear and made jokes about the massacre on social media.

Zachary Shearon, 13, and Richard Hummer, 14, were arrested and charged with conspiracy to commit murder in connection to planning a school shooting at The Villages Charter Middle School on Thursday.

Shearon, the supposed initiator of the plan, allegedly showed up to a Holocaust tribute wearing swastikas on his hands and Nazi logos on his arms, a Sumter County charging affidavit said.

The young teen recently made a disturbing joke about the Colorado massacre on social media, posting a photo of the killers with the caption: 'The Columbine High B-Ball team hasn't been the same since it lost its two best shooters', according to WFTV.

Zachary Shearon (left), 13, and Richard Hummer (right), 14, were arrested and charged with conspiracy to commit murder in connection to planning a 'Columbine-style' school shooting at The Villages Charter Middle School in central Florida on Thursday

Shearon, the supposed initiator of the plan, allegedly showed up to a Holocaust tribute wearing swastikas on his hands and Nazi logos on his arms. The young teen recently made a disturbing joke about the Colorado massacre on social media, posting a photo of the killers with the caption: 'The Columbine High B-Ball team hasn't been the same since it lost its two best shooters'

Authorities were alerted to the alleged attack when witnesses said some students had been warned not to come to school on Friday, when the teens were reportedly planning to shoot 'anyone who was not wearing a white t-shirt.'

The boys were taken into custody on Thursday when deputies executed search warrants and raided their homes.

Although no weapons were found on the boys, or in their bags or lockers, firearms were found at both the suspects homes, police said.

Officers first detained Shearon who is alleged to have been plotting the attack.

The teens were planning the massacre for Friday, January 27, at The Villages Charter Middle School in central Florida, pictured

Police said he acknowledged having conversations about the plot, and made reference to the 1999 mass shooting at Columbine High School, MyNews13 reports.

During the interview, deputies learned Hummer was also potentially involved.

Shearon had told him, 'imagine if that was me shooting', the Daily Commercial reported. The pair had allegedly worked out to meet in the gym on Friday morning and open fire when Hummer dropped a pencil.

The attack was plotted for morning because the children would be in a central location, meaning more targets, Capt. Chris Haworth, of the Sumter County Sheriff's Office, said to Click Orlando.

The teens told police they had discussed the 1999 Columbine High School massacre. Pictured: A Columbine High School student grieving at a memorial service

Both boys wept during their arrests and Shearon told deputies he was 'depressed' and wanted to end it all.

'I just want to die,' he said, according to the local report.

They both insisted the plot was a joke, despite all three witnesses believing the attack was serious and didn't think it was a joke, according to the affidavit.

The teens were charged with conspiracy to commit murder and were detained by the Department of Juvenile Justice.

School staff became aware of the alleged plot after they heard other students discussing it in the hallways, Fox News reports.

The Sumter County Sheriffs Office told WFLA-TV that police are grateful to the students brave enough to speak out about the plot.

Officers said there would be an increased deputy presence at the school on Friday, but they were not anticipating any further arrests.
Detectives investigating lurid abuse allegations against Sir Edward Heath have interviewed key figures at Private Eye  because the satirical magazine joked about his sexuality 40 years ago.

Police even visited the current editor, Ian Hislop, to ask what he knew about the former Prime Minister, despite the journalist being a teenager during the period under investigation.

Officers have also tracked down former Downing Street staff to ask them if young men were ever sneaked into Number 10.

Detectives investigating lurid abuse allegations against Sir Edward Heath have interviewed key figures at Private Eye

Wiltshire Polices controversial inquiry into Heath  Operation Conifer  has now cost taxpayers almost 900,000, with 17 people still working on it, despite growing demands for it to be shut down.

However, Chief Constable Mike Veale has apologised to MPs and peers for the operation being launched in front of cameras outside Heaths former house.

It comes after The Mail on Sunday revealed how an expert brought in by police to assess claims that Heath had been linked to a network of paedophiles who held satanic orgies, dismissed them as fantasy.

In the latest example of what has been branded a farce, Wiltshire Police rang former Private Eye editor Richard Ingrams earlier this month because the journal often made jokes at the expense of Heath when he was PM from 1970 to 1974.

Unmarried Heath had been jokingly dubbed Sailor Ted in a reference to rumours that he was gay.

The policeman said he wanted to know whether I had any information on Mr Heath, said Mr Ingrams.

I said, Youre talking about jokes. Theyd obviously looked through old copies of the Eye to some extent. There were plenty of Hello, Sailor type of jokes.

He added: I told the policeman there was a general subject of speculation about whether the Grocer [Private Eyes nickname for Heath] was gay or not. He had a dislike of women. He was very rude if he was sat next to women at lunch parties, just ignoring them completely.

It did all look like he was gay. But I never heard any evidence of paedophile rumours. Its a waste of time and public money.

Mr Ingrams said two officers have visited his long-serving successor at Private Eye. Ian had said to them it was a bit silly asking questions about Private Eye in 1974 because he was only 14 at the time, he added.

The House of Lords was told last month that Operation Conifer has even looked into Heaths activities inside No 10 Downing Street.

Lord Marlesford, a former adviser to Heath, told peers: The method of fishing adopted by Wiltshire Police seems to vary between the utterly naive and the patently absurd.

Police even visited the current editor, Ian Hislop, to ask what he knew about the former Prime Minister

I have been told by a former member of the Downing Street staff they were contacted by one of the investigating officers, who asked, first, whether they had noticed any untoward incidents in the behaviour of the then Prime Minister, and secondly, whether they had noticed any young men slipping in and out of No 10. Lord Armstrong of Ilminster, who was principal private secretary to Heath, told this newspaper he had been interviewed by two women from Operation Conifer but was asked only in general terms about my views on the allegations.

He told them Heath always had at least one policeman protecting him, from 1970 until his death in 2005, and that in any case the politician was almost completely asexual.

Wiltshire Police said the cost of Operation Conifer had reached 883,431 on December 22 last year, up from 674,472 in September.

There are now seven officers and 10 civilian staff working on it. Two people remain on police bail after being arrested but it is not known if they had any connection to Heath.

The force insisted the case is receiving appropriate scrutiny from a panel including a human rights lawyer, an ethics doctor, a psychiatrist and a local resident.

Last month, Chief Constable Veale met Wiltshire MPs in Westminster and told them that he expected the case to be finished by the summer. A final report may then be handed to the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse.

Wiltshire North MP James Gray said he told the chief constable he must make a public announcement if no evidence against Heath is found, as his name has been besmirched.

He said Mr Veale acknowledged it had been wrong for Superintendent Sean Memory to launch the investigation outside Heaths former Salisbury home in 2015, as it tended to imply there was a case to answer.

A spokesman for the local Police and Crime Commissioner, Angus Macpherson, said he continues to monitor the progress of the investigation and its cost and he remains satisfied with the progress.
Vanity Fair has received ample praise for featuring a number of black actresses on this year's diverse Hollywood Issue - but for some its not enough.

This year's cover girls included Natalie Portman, Emma Stone, Amy Adams, Ruth Negga, Janelle Monae, Elle and Dakota Fanning, Greta Gerwig, Lupita Nyongo, Dakota Johnson and Aja Naomi King.

But many on Twitter questioned how the magazine's annual issue could have once again left out Asian and Latina actresses among its sparkling stars.

'No Asian, Latina, trans, or lesbians represented,' wrote on user. 'Is this all we fought for #diversity? Just straight B&W?'

Vanity Fair has been praised for featuring a number of black actresses on its annual Hollywood Issue, but some are criticizing the magazine for leaving out Asian and Latina stars

Many took to Twitter to wonder why the likes of Gina Rodriguez or Priyanka Chopra were not featured on the magazine's cover

'No Asian, no Latino women... this is what "diversity" looks like in the USA,' added another.

When Jane the Virgin star Gina Rodriguez praised the cover on her Twitter account, one of her fans said she should have been featured as well.

'It's a beautiful picture, but you should have been part of that photo spread!' wrote the user, named Vanessa. '@VanityFair where's the Latina love?!!'

'@VanityFair I'm all for trying to be diverse but it seems you left out Latina actresses what's up with that,' another commenter added.

One Twitter user simply asked: 'Where are the Asian actors?'

The lack of any Asian celebrities on the cover was also brought up in one tongue-in-cheek Slate column.

'If there is a symbol of opposition in this vanity spread of fair people, it is the three black women in sparkles, shining bright in an Oscars season thats a little less "so white" but that still represents an industry that neglects complex Asian characters.'

Others noticed that when it came to diversity, the cover was severely lacking any actresses over a certain age.

Others noticed that when it came to diversity, the cover was severely lacking any older actresses, noting Annette Benning or the Academy Award nominee Isabelle Huppert

'Amazing photo. Great talent. #RuthNegga stunning! But why is there only one woman over the age of 40 in this group?' one Twitter user asked.

'Where's Annette Bening? Or banished for being over 40,' another chided in.

Some were confused to see both Fanning sisters taking slots on the cover, while others wondered why Dakota Johnson was included.

And others noted the Dakotas were the two actresses on the cover who did not have roles in this year's most critically-acclaimed films.

'Why Dakota Johnson, whose next Fifty Shades of Gray movie is sure to be bleh and isn't even out yet?' the Slate column asked.

'How come both Fanning sisters are there, disproportionately representing a single gene pool?' it added.

Some also complained that Loving star Ruth Negga was left off the actual cover of the issue, which featured Emma Stone, Amy Adams, Natalie Portman and Lupita Nyong'o

Negga was on the side panel with Elle and Dakota Fanning, Aja Naomi Harris, Dakota Johnson, Greta Gerwig and Janelle Monae

Vanity Fair has made huge strides since it came under fire for this Hollywood Issue in 2010 that featured only young white actresses

Another Twitter user joked that Vanity Fair only invited Dakota Fanning 'out of politeness' because 'they just wanted Elle'.

Elle Fanning, along with Gerwig, both starred in 20th Century Women with Bening. The Fannings are the first sisters to be featured on the Hollywood Issue together.

Although there were plenty of complaints, many Twitter users also heaped praised on the cover.

'This @VanityFair Hollywood Issue cover is EVERYTHING!' one user wrote.

'@VanityFair OMG I love this!!!! So beautiful! So diverse! So talented! I can see myself represented in this!' another user added.

Negga, who is Ethiopian and Irish, is the sole biracial woman on the cover.

The magazine was slow to increase the number of diverse cover stars following the controversy, and many noted that they were often pushed off to the side panels (2011)

Vanity Fair's 2012 Hollywood Issue featured Adepero Oduye and Paula Patton, who were pushed behind the fold

Zoe Saldana and America Ferrera were likewise pushed off to the side on the 2008 cover

Although some complained that Negga was pushed off the main panel, which is displayed on newsstands, others remarked Vanity Fair had massively improved.

The magazine came under fire after its 2010 Young Hollywood cover only featured white actresses.

And in the following years, many noted that the magazine had a habit of pushing non-white actors off to the side on Hollywood Issues, hiding them in the side panels.

But it seems that pattern has disappeared in the last three years.

In the 2015 Hollywood Issue, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Idris Elba and Michael B. Jordan joined the cover panel with Julia Roberts, George Clooney and Jared Leto.

And in 2016, Viola Davis was one of the four women featured on the cover along with Jane Fonda, Cate Blanchett and Jennifer Lawrence.

But there is something missing from both of those issues as well - any Asian or Latino actors.
Theresa May refused to condemn the policy while visiting Turkey. Pictured here at a visit to the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk

Theresa May has repeatedly refused to condemn an order by President Donald Trump suspending refugee arrivals, saying America is responsible for its own refugee policy.

Trump has signed an executive order which stops refugees entering the US from all countries for 120 days, and from Syria indefinitely.

It has already led to the refusal of entry of an Iraqi refugee who worked as a translator for the U.S. Army for 10 years.

But at a news conference in Ankara, Prime Minister May said: 'The United States is responsible for the United States' policy on refugees. The United Kingdom is responsible for the United Kingdom's policy on refugees.

'And our policy on refugees is to have a number of voluntary schemes to bring Syrian refugees into the country, particularly those who are most vulnerable but also to provide significant financial contributions to support refugees in countries surrounding Syria.'

However Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim condemned the policy and said putting up walls would not help the refugee crisis.

Theresa May was asked about Trump's ban on refugees from Muslim majority countries entering for 90 days but refused to condemn it

On the same day May visited Washington for her first White House meeting with Trump to bolster the London-Washington relationship, the new president ordered a suspension of refugee arrivals.

He also imposed tough controls on travellers from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

At a joint news conference with Yildirim, May had initially declined to be drawn into directly giving any comment on Trump's order.

Instead she praised Turkey for its hospitality in hosting some three million refugees from Syria and also Iraq.

However Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim was happy to condemn the move saying throwing up walls

Yildirim insisted it was a problem that could not be ignored but May said it was for the US to decide their own policy

Yildirim however offered implicit condemnation of Trump's move, saying throwing up walls will not solve the world's refugee problems.

'We cannot solve this refugee problem by putting up walls,' Yildirim said.

Trump's executive order specifically says no visas will be issued for 90 days to migrants or visitors from the seven Muslim-majority countries.

The order also puts a 120-day ban on all refugee entries into the country and declares that refugees from Syria are not welcome until further notice.

Yildirim insisted that with tens of millions of refugees worldwide, it was a problem which 'could not be ignored' but had to be solved with greater cooperation between countries.

'We opened our doors, and if they come again, we would take them again,' he said, adding: 'Regional problems cannot be solved by sweeping them under the carpet.'

Yildirim added it would not be possible to make 'assessments on hearsay' with regard to Trump's order

The Turkish authorities say they are hosting some 2.7 million Syrian refugees who fled the country during the over six-year conflict and another 300,000 Iraqi refugees.

Yildirim added it would not be possible to make 'assessments on hearsay' with regard to Trump's order.

In a statement issued late Friday night after the suspension was announced, IRC President David Miliband said: 'America must remain true to its core values. America must remain a beacon of hope.'

The IRC statement declared that the U.S. vetting process for prospective refugees is already robust - involving biometric screening and up to 36 months of vetting by '12 to 15 government agencies.'

Miliband praised U.S.'s record as a resettlement destination and said: 'This is no time for America to turn its back on people ready to become patriotic Americans.'
Cummins' slaughtered by night prolifically and with such sadistic savagery

On a cold Sunday night, Evelyn Hamilton, a 40-year-old chemist, arrived in London with her suitcase, planning to stay the night before travelling to Grimsby to start a new job in a pharmacy.

Charming and intelligent, if a bit lonely perhaps  like many women between the wars, she had not managed to find a husband  Evelyn had lost her job due to wartime cutbacks and hoped this new role would bring her security.

Leaving her suitcase at her boarding house in Marylebone, she popped out for supper at a Lyons Corner house. But she would never return to the property.

The following morning  Monday, February 9, 1942  an electrician on his way to work spotted a torch lying on the ground near an air raid shelter.

He and his companion peered inside and saw something that would haunt them for ever: the body of a woman, lying on her back in the gutter.

A policeman heard their shouts and within minutes senior officers were on the scene. They saw that the woman had been strangled.

Her skirt was rucked up revealing her stockings and underwear, and her vest had been torn, exposing one breast. It suggested the killer had a sexual motive.

The next day, two meter readers found an even more horrifying scene when a neighbour let them into a flat in Soho, Central London. Their torchlight picked out the body of a woman, her head hanging over the edge of the bed, and blood streaming across the floor.

She was Evelyn Oatley, 35, the flats occupant. She had been strangled and her throat had been cut. She had also been sexually mutilated with sickening brutality, using a torch, a razor blade, a tin opener and hair tongs.

Evelyn Hamilton, a 40-year-old chemist, was Cummins' first victim in February 1942. She was only staying the night before starting a new job in Grimsby

Were the murders, carried out within 48 hours of each other, the work of the same sexual sadist?

Chief Inspector Edward Greeno, of Scotland Yards Murder Squad, thought it likely.

Fingerprints revealed the killer in both cases was left-handed. But his prints did not match any held on file. So who was he and could he be caught before he struck again?

February sees the 75th anniversary of a momentous month in the Second World War, during which Singapore fell to the Japanese, with other British strongholds soon following.

But closer to home, Londoners, still reeling from the Luftwaffe blitz that had shattered the city and claimed so many lives, were haunted by a different kind of killer, one who struck in the dark, slaughtering by night so prolifically and with such sadistic savagery in a grotesque six-day killing spree that he was dubbed the Blackout Ripper.

Not since the panic-ridden days in 1888, when Jack the Ripper was abroad in the East End, had London known such a reign of terror, said Chief Superintendent Fred Cherrill, one of Scotland Yards most famous detectives and the pioneering head of its Fingerprint Department.

The killings and the hunt for the murderer are described in a book, In The Dark, in which author Simon Read draws on Scotland Yards case files to narrate the story of the murderer.

Enquiries about the woman in the Soho flat soon established her identity.

Evelyn Oatley, a shapely blonde, was an actress, who had married a Lancashire poultry farmer but abandoned him to pursue her West End career.

Work had dried up so she bedded strangers partly for the money and because she did not like to be alone in the darkness as the air raid sirens wailed.

Aspiring actress Evelyn Oatley, 35, was murdered by the Blackout Ripper, Gordon Cummins

Evelyn preferred older men  they were less demanding, less prone to violence. But on the night of February 9 she caught the eye of a good-looking young man and decided to relax her rule.

They walked through the dark streets scarred by bombs, gaping holes where houses had once stood, back to her one-room flat, where his charm gave way to horrific violence. Evelyns neighbour heard nothing above the sound from the wireless.

And even as her body lay in the mortuary, the killer was already hunting for his next victim.

At the Air Crew Receiving Centre in Regents Park, trainees were put through rigorous tests and medicals before they could go on to training wings around the country.

One, Leading Aircraftsman Gordon Frederick Cummins, 28, impressed his superiors with his efficiency and zeal to transform himself from lowly ground crew into dashing airman.

He was popular with his messmates, though some thought him pretentious: he claimed to be the Honourable Gordon Cummins, illegitimate offspring of an aristocrat and affected an upper-class drawl.

He also bragged of his sexual conquests: certainly his easy charm and good looks seemed to melt womens morals. Despite having an adoring young wife, Marjorie, he bedded innumerable women.

Chief Inspector Edward Greeno (left), of Scotland Yards Murder Squad, immediately thought it likely the first two deaths were connected

And now that he was posted in London, there was no shortage of them. Cummins was not the only married air cadet to sample the wares of the Piccadilly Commandos, as the sex workers were known. But he had not shown any propensity to violence.

On the night of February 9 he was accompanied into Soho by Air Cadet Felix Sampson.

While Sampson went off with a buxom girl named Molly, Cummins selected a blonde named Laura Denmark but, though he paid her, he failed to complete the act, perhaps as a result of all he had drunk.

After this failure he headed back to Piccadilly and spotted another blonde, Evelyn Oatley, and it was on her that he unleashed the sadistic urges that had, perhaps, been bubbling beneath his charming exterior for years.

Chief Inspector Greeno was sure that a man with such sickening appetites would strike again if police did not find him fast.

Within 24 hours, Cummins proved him right. His aristocratic pretensions had led his messmates to nickname him The Duke.

Now, with dreadful irony, he homed in on a woman whose fellow working girls had dubbed The Lady due to her fur coat and refined air.

Margaret Lowe was a widow and had a 15-year-old daughter, Barbara. It was in part to pay Barbaras weekly boarding school fees that she had taken to the streets.

At about 1am on February 11, Margaret was approached by a well- spoken young man.

THE GAS MASK THAT NAILED HIM Cummins dropped his respirator during one attack - police found mortar dust inside it that linked him to the scene of Evelyn Hamilton's murder Advertisement

She took him back to her flat and, once again, the next-door neighbour heard nothing as Cummins set about his sickening work.

Then, he quietly let himself out and returned to his billet where his roommates were snoring obliviously.

Meanwhile, in a flat the other side of Regents Park, Margaret Lowes mutilated body was growing cold.

By now, although the newspapers had devoted little space to the murders of Evelyn Hamilton and Evelyn Oatley, whispers had reached the working girls.

Despite police resources being under huge strain due to black-market racketeering, muggings and burglaries unleashed by the war, Chief Inspector Greeno sent officers out to try to pick up intelligence, hoping the increased presence might deter the killer.

On the night of February 12, Cummins bought drinks for a pretty woman, Mary (also known as Greta) Heywood, 32.

He had spotted her in a Piccadilly restaurant where she was waiting for her boyfriend. He propositioned her, thrusting 30  worth 1,000 today  on to the table, but she told him she was not that kind of girl.

She did, however, accompany him into the street. He pulled her into a doorway, kissed her and tried to put his hands inside her skirt.

When she told him to stop, he put his hands around her neck and began to squeeze.

As he tightened his grip she fought desperately, struggling to breathe. Just as she fell unconscious to the ground, a torchlight shone into the doorway: a passing night porter had noticed the commotion. Cummins ran off but in his hurry he dropped his respirator, with his RAF number 525987 printed on it.

Still reeling from the Luftwaffe blitz that had shattered the city and claimed so many lives, Londoners were haunted by a different kind of killer

Still desperate to sate his perverted desires, Cummins continued cruising the streets that night and found prostitute Catherine Mulcahy.

He attempted to strangle her but she had kept her boots on in bed and with a kick to his stomach she managed to get him off her, alerting neighbours with screams of Murder! Cummins fled, throwing money at Mulcahy as he left.

Furious at being thwarted, he roamed on. In Paddington he encountered Doris Jouannet, a bored housewife who picked up men as much for diversion as for cash.

On her, he at last satisfied his repulsive cravings, strangling her with her silk stocking then ripping her body open with a razor blade.

On February 13, Doriss elderly husband returned home in the evening from his job as a hotel manager and found the bedroom door locked.

When police broke it down they discovered Doriss horrifically butchered body. A few streets away, Margaret Lowes daughter had arrived at her mothers flat for the weekend, but her knocking went unanswered.

Neighbours called the police who kicked the door down and found her remains. Like Doris, she had been strangled and then mutilated with the hallmark sexual sadism of the Blackout Ripper.

But his bloody orgy had already come to an end. Both Heywood and Mulcahy had told police about the airman who had tried to strangle them.

The number on his respirator led them to Cummins and when they questioned him on February 13 they found him evasive and arrogant.

A search of his accommodation and possessions uncovered items belonging to his victims: a pen engraved with Doris Jouannets initials, a cigarette case Barbara Lowe identified as her mothers, and another belonging to Evelyn Oatley.

One of his shirts was bloodstained and the money he had thrown at Catherine Mulcahy was traced to his payday records.

Fingerprints tied him to the tin opener used to mutilate Evelyn Oatley and to a glass found in Margaret Lowes flat, while mortar dust in his gas mask was similar to that found in the shelter where Evelyn Hamilton had been murdered.

His trial was brief. He was tried only for Evelyn Oatleys murder and within 35 minutes, convinced by the fingerprint testimony given by Chief Superintendent Cherrill, the jury found him guilty. On April 28 he was sentenced to death by hanging.

This can openerwas left behind at one of the murder scenes by Cummins

Cummins continued to claim his innocence and his family even attempted to appeal, in vain. He was executed on June 25, 1942, at Wandsworth Prison during an air raid.

His death had brought the killings to an end but left unanswered the question: why? What had turned Cummins from a cheery, easy-going young man with a promising career into such a brutal killer who murdered and mutilated four women in six days, and attacked two others?

As Cummins refused to admit his guilt, the question remained unanswered. Police suspected that Evelyn Hamilton was not his first victim: he was also linked with two unsolved murders.

Cummins remains a grotesque enigma. His violence rivalled that of the other Ripper, his killing even more frenzied and almost as prolific: while Jack the Ripper is known to have slaughtered five women over three months, Cummins murdered four in five nights, and would have killed and eviscerated two others had he not been disturbed.

Yet, because of the war, and the fact that he was caught quickly, neither his crimes nor his victims received the level of attention as those of his Victorian predecessor.

Seventy-five years on, it is time to remember them, victims of their time and of a killer of such remorseless brutality that his infamy deserves to be far greater.
Its been billed as an American classic, an all-singing, all-dancing throwback to the golden age of Hollywood.

But might La La Land, the blockbuster musical that won a record-breaking seven Golden Globes and which has been nominated for 14 Oscars, owe just a little of its appeal to Britain?

The films Canadian star Ryan Gosling plays a jazz pianist and he stunned the cast and crew with his accomplished playing, after taking piano lessons six days a week for three months before filming began.

Accepting a Golden Globe for his performance earlier this month, Gosling paid tribute to his long-term partner Eva Mendes, who was nursing her terminally-ill brother during filming while also pregnant with the couples second child.

Might La La Land, the blockbuster musical that won a record-breaking seven Golden Globes and which has been nominated for 14 Oscars, owe just a little of its appeal to Britain?

But there was another person he could have thanked in his speech  the man from whom Ryan inherited his musical talent.

The Mail on Sunday has learned that Ryans great-great-grandfather, George Edward Gosling, was a talented musician and war hero from London who volunteered for the British Army as a bugler in early 1882, at the tender age of 15.

Within months, he was in action as part of a 13,000-strong British force sent to quell an uprising in Egypt, in which local insurgents were seeking to overthrow the British and French.

The details of his valour are lost to the mists of time, but such was his gallantry at the pivotal Battle of Tell El Kebir in 1882  at which the uprising was comprehensively quashed  that he came to the attention of Queen Victoria. She presented him with an engraved bugle at the end of the victorious campaign.

The family photo shows a remarkable resemblance between Ryan and his great-grandfather George Percy Gosling, son of bugler George Edward Gosling, who was also a talented organist.

The picture was taken in Ontario after George Edward emigrated to Canada aged 21.

Linda Stephens, 58, Ryans third cousin once removed, told The Mail on Sunday: I never knew George Edward Gosling but I remember his brother Charles, who was my great-grandfather. He told me that they came over here for a better life.

George was very musical  that must be where Ryan gets his talent from  and there is a real Gosling resemblance. They all look the spitting image of each other.

Ryan Gosling attended an open audition for a revival of Disneys Mickey Mouse Club and landed a two-year contract, his first step towards stardom (pictured with a young Britney Spears)

George Edward Gosling, the eldest of six children of a painter and decorator, was born in Cornwall in 1867 but grew up in Portland Road, Notting Hill, which recently featured on the BBC social history series The Secret History of Our Streets. Then, it was filled with new properties sandwiched between the stucco splendour of Ladbroke Grove and the Piggeries and Potteries  Londons most squalid gypsy camp  at the bottom of the hill.

Today, the most expensive house in Portland Road will fetch 14.6 million, while the street is also home to a council estate housing some of Londons poorest citizens.

George Edward quit the Army soon after returning from Egypt and he, his mother and five siblings emigrated to Canada in 1889 on the ship The Canadian.

They settled in the provincial town of Cornwall, Ontario, where Gosling worked on the railways until he retired in 1932.

His obituary in the Ottawa Journal on May 22, 1948, stated: George E. Gosling, for many years representative of the Canadian National Express Company, died in Cornwall General Hospital Thursday night, in his 81st year.

He had been in ill health more than a year. A native of England, he served with British troops as a bugler in the Egyptian campaign and, in 1885, was presented with an engraved bugle by Queen Victoria. The bugle is in possession of his son, George P. Gosling.

Gosling's great-grandfather George Percy is on the far right of the back row, while his great-great grandfather George Edward is far left on the bottom row. Both were talented musicians

He was an accomplished organist and played in churches in London, Arnprior and Montreal, as well as in three local churches.

Ryan, 36, is descended from George Edwards son George Percy, who ran Goslings Travel Bureau. His son George Bigelow Gosling was Ryans grandfather.

The actors father, Thomas, worked for a paper mill and his mother, Donna, was a secretary and teacher.

But it was his uncle Perry, an Elvis impersonator, who gave him the showbiz bug. He inspired him, at 12, to attend an open audition for a revival of Disneys Mickey Mouse Club. Ryan landed a two-year contract, his first step towards stardom.

Despite his obvious acting skills, Ryan puts the musical ability he inherited from Bugler Gosling to good use. Away from the film set, he is a multi-instrumentalist in Dead Mans Bones  the indie rock band released their only album in 2009  as well as providing songs for several film soundtracks.

Now nominated for an Oscar for his La La Land role, Gosling has said: Piano had always been something I wish I had the time to learn. What other job is it a part of your duty to just sit in front of a piano for three months and play? It was really one of the most fulfilling pre- production periods Ive ever had.

No doubt his great-great-grandfather would have agreed.
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Rare images taken inside secretive North Korea reveal the influence of the West is slowly seeping into the culture.

Photographer Eric Lafforgue travelled to the communist state, ruled by dictator Kim Jong-un, six times from 2008.

His pictures of the capital, Pyongyang, show a city where western-style billboards for fake brands and people on smartphones have become the norm, a site that was unthinkable a decade ago.

Mr Lafforgue has now been banned from the country after his work was noticed by North Korean officials.

Thanks to digital memory cards the photographer was able to save pictures that he was forbidden to take or was told to delete by minders.

Mr Lafforgue's photographs show a different side to the North Korean capital, which is often thought of as a poverty ridden dictatorship by westerners.

He said: 'As China has started to overflow the country with products, you can clearly see the changes in Pyongyang.

'Mobile phones are run by Orascom, an Egyptian company, and millions have subscribed to it, even if calling abroad is impossible .

'The clothes have changed . When I came in 2008 everybody wore this Nylon clothes made in North Korea making them look like robots.

'Now fake [versions] of American brands are everywhere . The attitude of people has also changed.

'Seeing young people together is more and more possible in the fun fairs for example. The huge park of the main fun fair has became a great rendez vous area for the young people.

'One of my guides, who was 20-year-old, kept on texting, telling me that she was answering young students.'

Eric Lafforgue's photographs show a different side to the North Korean capital, which is often thought of as a poverty ridden dictatorship by westerners. Pictured a uniformed traffic warden stands in front of a colourful poster depicting a nuclear weapon

His pictures often show a happy side to the North Korean capital but he has now been banned from the country after his work was noticed by officials

American influences in the country can be seen in the western-style branded billboards (pictured left) and pastimes (pictured right) that are popping up in Pyongyang

Showing poverty is forbidden in North Korea and the country has made a huge effort to appear rich to the western world. Pictured left is the Ryugyong Hotel, an unfinished 105-story skyscrapper in the capital. Pictured right a man uses a mobile phone serviced by an Egyption company

Mr Lafforgue said when he first visited the country in 2008 everybody wore Nylon clothes made in North Korea that, 'made them look like robots'. But now fake versions of American brands are 'everywhere'. Pictured is a woman wearing a American-style tracksuit and a badge depicting Kim Il-Sung, the eternal president of North Korea

When Mr Lafforgue posted some of his unique collection online he said: 'Thanks to digital memory cards, I was able to save photos that I was forbidden to take or was told to delete by the minder.' Pictured are young women wearing traditional dress

The huge park of the main fun fair has became a rendez vous area for young people in the the city. Pictured are a young couple taking a stroll while tentatively holding hands

The communist state has strict rules about what visitors are allowed to do and where they can go. Western influences, particularly those from America, are strictly banned but as technology becomes more widespread so does people's knowledge about the world outside North Korea

Photographer Eric Lafforgue travelled to the state, ruled by dictator Kim Jong-un, six times from 2008. Pictured are students using computers which are not connected to the world wide web but a North Korean intranet

Public transportation connecting the main towns is nearly nonexistent and citizens need permits to go from one place to another

Young people meeting up and being seen together is now more and more possible with the introduction of mobile phones
She is becoming a commanding figure on the world stage, but Theresa May has so far managed to keep her home life private.

Now, the BBC is planning an insight into what might be going on behind closed doors at No 10  in a radio comedy starring impressionist Jan Ravens as the Prime Minister.

Theresa May, pictured at home with husband Philip, will be stars of a new BBC radio show

And theres a hotlist of high-profile celebrity contenders lined up to play Mrs Mays unassuming husband Philip.

Ms Ravens, star of the hit Radio 4 series Dead Ringers, has revealed she has been given the green light for a pilot for a weekly series about the Mays.

Ms Ravens, 58, said: I thought about a 15-minute sitcom about the Mays at home.

The idea is based on them in the Downing Street flat when they kick off their shoes. We will want the script to concentrate on the main issues of the week but couched in a domestic situation.

Maybe well have Theresa going to choir practice or a book club.

Like finance executive Mr May, Ms Ravens comes from Liverpool, where she went to West Kirby Grammar School for girls at the same time he attended nearby boys grammar, Calday Grange.

Jan Ravens (left) will play Mrs May with one of the main contenders to play her husband, Philip, David Morrissey

She said: We are about the same age and I cant believe I didnt know him.

Mr May has not yet been cast but the candidates, all Liverpudlian, include Withnail And I star Paul McGann, David Morrissey and even comedian Alexei Sayle, whose show Alexei Sayles Stuff Ms Ravens appeared in.

She hopes the pilot will go out on Radio 4 later this year.

Fellow impressionist Rory Bremner, who is touring with Ms Ravens from March, said she was pitch perfect as the PM, who was difficult to impersonate.

The other two contenders up for playing the part of Philip May are Paul McGann (left) and comedian Alexei Sayle (right)

He said: I have noticed she has a distinctive voice and I think she has a condition called spasmodic dysphonia. When someone is nervous and under pressure, it results in a quavering voice, a slightly yodelly voice.

The BBC said the show was in the early stages of development.
Sir Alan Duncan, pictured, was the named as the minister that Israeli diplomat, Shai Masot, wanted to 'take down'

A high-powered group of MPs is to investigate the scandal of the Israeli diplomat exposed by the MoS vowing to take down Boris Johnsons deputy.

The Commons Foreign Affairs Select Committee is to examine claims that it was evidence of an Israeli plot to meddle in the UKs stance on the Middle East.

It comes after an undercover sting exposed Israeli diplomat Shai Masot making threats against Foreign Office Minister Sir Alan Duncan.

Masot was sent home in disgrace for threatening to target pro-Palestinian Sir Alan.

He was causing a lot of problems, said Masot, vowing to take down the Minister.

The disclosure also led to the sacking of a pro-Israeli British civil servant who appeared to egg on Masot.

Education Minister Robert Halfons aide Maria Strizzolo resigned after being filmed by a reporter from TV station Al Jazeera.

An investigation is to open into whether claims made by Israeli diplomat, Shai Masot, pictured, in a film by an Al Jazeera journalist, are evidence of an Israeli plot

A still from the Al Jazeera film which caught Israeli diplomat, Shai Masot, pictured, saying efforts should be made to target Sir Alan Duncan

She told Masot all MPs have something theyre trying to hide, adding: A little scandal maybe?

Foreign Secretary, Boris Johnson, said the matter was 'closed' after the Israeli ambassador apologised for the incident

The investigation reflects anger among many MPs at the Governments failure to take tougher action over the incident.

Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson said the matter was closed after Israeli ambassador Mark Regev apologised.

Mr Regev is expected to be summoned to the Commons to explain Masots conduct.

Announcing the inquiry, committee chairman Tory MP Crispin Blunt, also targeted in the undercover film, made a thinly veiled jibe at Theresa May for rejecting calls to punish Israel for the scandal. He said: The Government may have formally closed the issue of Shai Masot, but we intend to look into the way foreign states seek to influence UK policy.

Strizzolo and Masot were filmed talking of horrible pro-Arab Mr Blunt being on a hit list. Blunt called their conduct outrageous. Israel said plot allegations were ridiculous.
She was accused of starving him and depriving him of water

Colby and his younger brother were both taken into custody in May 2016

She is said to enjoy 'attention for having medically fragile children'

Danita Tutt, 41, of Cleburne, Texas, was indicted on injury to a child charges on Friday after she was accused of

A woman who was accused of lying about her 13-year-old son's medical condition for 'attention' and causing him bodily injury, was indicted on five counts.

Danita Tutt, 41, was indicted Friday on charges of injury to a child and on allegations that she lied about her son's 'terminal illness' which led doctors to perform unnecessary surgeries and be prescribe unneeded pain medications to her son Colby.

The woman from Cleburne Texas, is facing up to life in prison if convicted, the Star-Telegram reported.

Tutt is accused of starving her son, withholding water, and using him by lying about symptoms for a charity fundraiser.

Colby underwent ileostomy and gastrotomy surgeries which eventually led to a life-threatening blood infection, police alleged.

The 41-year-old's defense attorneys Terri Moore and Mike Ware said in a statement on Friday that Tutt is 'loving mother of a sick little boy upon whom doctors have performed medically necessary procedures.'

His mother's misleading medical information prompted the boy to undergo unnecessary surgeries and be placed on unneeded pain medications. Pictured: Colby

The two boys will remain in the custody of their maternal grandparents and will be allowed unlimited visits with Tutt, but will be supervised

They claim doctors told the mother-of-two her son was dying and needed hospice care, but that Child Protective Services removed her child from her after she questioned medical advice.

CPS removed Colby and his brother Colton, 9, in May last year after Tutt was accused of being an 'attention-seeking type person' who enjoys 'the attention she gets for having a medically fragile child'.

The documents stated: 'There are concerns that she may end Colby's life,' the report continued. 'There are concerns for the safety of his sibling.'

CPS and Tutt reached a settlement on Friday and agreed dismiss the suit against Tutt to remove her parental rights.

The two boys will remain in the custody of their maternal grandparents and will be allowed unlimited visits with Tutt, but will be supervised.

CPS spokeswoman Marissa Gonzalez said the agreement has not been officially finalized by a judge as of yet.

'Now, even Child Protective Services agree that the family should be reunited and has dismissed their case against Ms Tutt,' Moore and Ware said in their emailed statement.

'The District Attorney evidently disagrees with the decision to dismiss the case against Ms. Tutt and has indicted her,' Tutt's attorney in the CPS case said.

He said the family 'thrilled' by the settlement.

'It ensures they'll keep their parental rights,' he said.

Cooke also said it was ironic that she was indicted shortly after Child Protective Services settled the case.

Tutt was arrested in her home in Johnson County, Texas, on August 5th by Fort Worth Police and was free on bond in the case.

Colby and his younger brother had already been taken into custody in May of last year following a report that the Colby had been removed from Ronald McDonald House of Fort Worth (pictured) where he was in palliative care

The 13-year-old had been treated in Angel Unaware, a Fort Worth-based pediatric hospice agency and then was later transferred to Ronald McDonald House

Colby and his younger brother were taken into custody on May 6 following a report that the Colby had been removed from Ronald McDonald House of Fort Worth, where he was receiving palliative care.

The 41-year-old had been allegedly refusing to feed and provide water for Colby and had already made funeral arrangements for him, even going as far as to buy him a casket.

The Tutts received national attention after Colby's 'final wish' to attend WrestleMania at AT&T Stadium captured hearts across social media.

A GoFundMe page was then launched and in March of this year, Wrestler Erick Rowan paid a surprise visit to Colby at his home and WWE arranged a limo to take the family to the event.

Fort Worth police began investigating on May 6 after being contacted by CPS, who had taken emergency custody of Colby that same day after Tutt had removed her son from their care the night before without permission.

CPS took Colby to Cook Children's Medical Center in Fort Worth.

The affidavit to investigators also revealed how a hospice administrator had discovered that despite his mother saying that Colby could not tolerate solid foods, during a 30-observation - when his parents weren't present - she discovered otherwise.

'My evening with Colby was surprising in that Colby ate a bean and cheese burrito, a piece of cake and approximately 20 ounces of sweet tea and tolerated it all,' Connie Koehler wrote.

Meanwhile, despite Tutt preparing for the end of her son's life - and even buying a casket and picking out a gravestone - doctors have stated that Colby isn't actually dying.
Metal 'spikes' set up to stop homeless people sleeping near a city centre building have been slammed as 'demeaning'.

The devices have been installed outside Pall Mall Court, Manchester, in an area covered by a roof which rough sleepers have been known to use.

But the spikes have caused a stir among locals, including councillors who said they were 'not the answer'.

Metal 'spikes' set up outside a building in Manchester to deter rough sleepers have been slammed as 'demeaning' by locals

The devices have been put outside Pall Mall Court, whose owners declined to comment on the matter

City centre spokesman Pat Karney has criticised the move and vowed to meet with the owners of the building to discuss the issue.

The building is home to private healthcare centre Pall Mall Medical, which said that the firm only rents part of the building.

A spokesman for GVA, which manages the building, declined to comment.

Cllr Karney said: 'We don't want to see any of these devices in our city centre. This is not the answer to rough sleeping, it's demeaning in that way.

'We are not stupid, we know that there is a lot of irritation and a lot of mess caused by people, but the first thing they should do is phone the town hall and see what we can do.

'There is a lot of this in places like New York - and it's not the road we want to go down.

'It's not the solution and it really aggravates and alienates people.'

The use of homeless spikes has caused controversy in Manchester in the past.

Selfridges agreed to remove spikes outside its store in Exchange Square following protests in 2015.

The retailer was accused of targeting the homeless, but bosses insisted they were being used to discourage its own staff from smoking outside the store.

It comes after similar spikes have previously been used in Manchester that prompted thousands of people to sign a petition calling them 'inhumane'

Thousands of people signed a petition which branded the spikes 'inhumane'.

Figures released this week show that rough sleeping is on the increase across Greater Manchester.

Across Manchester, there are 78 people classed as rough sleepers in 2016 - an increase from 70 the previous year.

The figures are based on estimates carried out on one night in November.

In Manchester a new 'homelessness charter' was launched last year to bring together organisations, businesses, individuals and rough sleepers to tackle the problem.
A jihadi cyber attack is a real threat and should be taken seriously, warn experts.

Fear is growing that extremist groups may be able to shut down a power grid, paralyse a transport network or banking system.

Analysts fear that while groups such as ISIS may not have the skills themselves, they could hire someone else for the job.

A jihadi cyber attack is a real threat and should be taken seriously, warn experts

'Digital attacks with major impacts are unlikely in the short term,' said Guillaume Poupard, head of France's digital security service ANSSI, at an international cyber security conference in Lille, France.

'However, that could change very fast.

'Our real fear, and we may already be there, is that they will use mercenaries, people who will do anything for money.

At the moment extremist groups are mainly using the internet for recruitment and propaganda.

Mr Poupard said: 'The skills are complex, though not at the level of a nuclear weapon.

'With a few dozen people, a little money, but not that much, you can be effective.'

Fear is growing that extremist groups may be able to shut down a power grid, paralyse a transport network or banking system

Mr Poupard warned that intermediaries on the dark web may be used by extremist groups.

'In fact, that's our fear,' he said.

'It's no so much that IS can quickly develop cyberattacks but that they will be able to go through intermediaries.'

Speaking at World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, retired Pakistani general Raheel Sharif said cyber terrorism is 'a real threat'.

He said: 'As technology improves, the possibility exists that someone can hack into a very sophisticated system and control that resource in such a way as to do maximum damage somewhere.'
An argument on a subway platform in the Bronx took a dangerous turn on Wednesday, leaving an avid salsa dancer with an amputated leg and another man facing attempted murder charges for pushing him onto the train tracks.

Arrested is Alberto Pena, 34, who faces three assault charges in addition to attempted murder.

Victim Luis Henriques, 43, was on his way to work at a construction job in Brooklyn when the horrific incident unfolded on Wednesday morning, reported the New York Daily News.

It was about 6.40am when Henriques, who supports two children in the Dominican Republic, got into an argument with turnstile jumper at the Grand Concourse and East 170th Street station in the Bronx, police said.

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Shown is the Bronx subway station where, on Wednesday morning, Luis Henriques was allegedly pushed onto the tracks while on his way to work (file photo)

Henriques didn't see the shove coming, and his lawyer has denied there was any altercation.

'He went down into subway like normal and was waiting for the train and got pushed,' lawyer Joshua Stein said.

In any event, the shove came just as a D train was pulling into the station.

Steven Switzer, the train's driver, saw Henriques fly in front of the train and hit the emergency brakes, police said.

The driver said he didn't see the events that led to Henriques falling onto the tracks.

Henriques survived, though the train crushed his left leg.

The father was rushed to the hospital, where his leg was amputated in an emergency operation.

A train crushed Henriques' left leg, but the father of two survived. Alberto Pena, 34, has been charged with attempted murder in the incident

But later that afternoon, the construction worker, who loves salsa dancing, was already making quips to lift the mood, the New York Post reported.

'Now, I have no leg,' he told his landlord, Marisol Del Castillo, on the phone at around 1pm.

'He was in pain and he was making jokes about it,' Del Castillo said. 'He's the type of person who makes jokes.'

On Friday, police arrested Pena for the alleged subway shove.
The senior U.S. Secret Service agent who said she wouldn't want to take a bullet for President Trump has reportedly been placed on administrative leave.

Kerry O'Grady, the special agent in charge of the Secret Service's Denver district, made several posts on social media in the past year criticizing Trump, saying he would be a 'disaster' for the country - particularly for women and minorities.

In October, she posted that she would rather go to jail than 'take a bullet' for Trump - although she avoided referring to him by name, prompting public outrage.

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Kerry O'Grady (left), the special agent in charge of the Secret Service's Denver district, was a vocal opponent of the Donald (right) during his campaign

Officials have now confirmed that she's been placed on administrative leave whilst they conduct a formal investigation in to her social media activity, according to NY Daily News.

The post in question said: 'As a public servant for nearly 23 years, I struggle not to violate the Hatch Act,' which refers to the act that bars executive branch staff from engaging in certain political activities.

'So I keep quiet and skirt the median. To do otherwise can be a criminal offense for those in my position. Despite the fact that I am expected to take a bullet for both sides.'

She continued: 'But this world has changed and I have changed. And I would take jail time over a bullet or an endorsement for what I believe to be disaster to this country and the strong and amazing women and minorities who reside here. Hatch Act be damned. I am with Her.'

O'Grady said this week that she is devoted to her mission to serve her country and that nothing would stop her from doing her job.

'I hope you understand that's an emphatic no,' she said when asked if he political stance would affect her job, 'and I need to make sure that's resoundingly clear and just reinforces that this job needs to done well.'

'As a public servant for nearly 23 years, I struggle not to violate the Hatch Act,' she wrote, referring to the act that bars executive branch staff from engaging in certain political activities

Secret Service employees are covered by the act which bars people from posting partisan messages on social media, or sharing and disturbing partisan material, according to the Washington Examiner.

In operational security training, agents are warned against the use of social media because it can expose their personal information and their movements, sources say.

That post triggered at least one complaint to the Secret Service, those sources added.

O'Grady told the Examiner she took down the post just a couple of days after it was posted.

She explained that she wrote the post shortly after learning that Trump was being accused of sexually abusing a number of women. It was just days after the notorious video of Trump telling Access Hollywood' host Billy Bush he could grab women 'by the p***y.'

As a survivor of alleged sexual abuse, O'Grady said she had written the message while overcome with emotion by the news.

O'Grady has also made numerous other posts criticizing Donald Trump during his campaign - and even after his election

But she took down the post after realizing 'it was not the sentiment that I needed to share because I care very deeply about the mission.'

'My government is the most important thing to me,' she said. 'I serve at the pleasure of the president, but I still have the First Amendment right to say things.'

However, that was not the only anti-Trump post O'Grady made.

Over the past few months, she continued to make political comments online criticizing Trump and his adversaries.

O'Grady previously shared a Huffington Post story with the headline: 'Scott Baio Defends Trump's Sexism with More Sexism', with her comment; 'One word: douche. How do you like them apples?!'

A month after her 'bullet' post, she shared a Vox post, headlined 'Donald Trump nominates Jeff Sessions to serve as attorney general' on which Vox commented 'Just a few years ago, this would have been unimaginable.'

O'Grady, who removed the post a couple of days later, said she wrote it after being overcome with emotion following Trump's 'grab them by the p***y' video

O'Grady wrote: 'We are moving our civil rights into a period of bigotry, misogyny and racism that this country has not tolerated for decades. Dark ages. I am horrified and dismayed beyond words.'

During the Women's March, she posted the logo for the movement as her Facebook cover. She later wrote: 'All of these women represent me! Proud to say it! #nasty,' referring to the phrase Clinton supporters referred to themselves by after Trump labelled Hillary a 'nasty woman.'

On Inauguration Day, she updated her profile picture to a picture of Princess Leia with the words, 'A woman's place is in the resistance' - a reference to the rebel alliance in Star Wars, or those opposing Trump's presidency.

All political posts have since been removed.
Moldy bed sheets are being blamed for the death of five patients who contracted fungal infections that contributed to their deaths at two Pittsburgh hospitals.

Two wrongful-death suits were filed against the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center system from the families of Daniel Krieg, 52, and Che DuVall, 70, whose deaths are claimed to be fungal related.

The lawsuit claims that the hospitals knew there was possible mold contamination with bed sheets from Paris Healthcare Linen's facility in DuBois, Pennsylvania, which supplied the hospitals with linens.

Two wrongful death suits were filed against the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center system from the families of Daniel Krieg, 52, and Che DuVall, 70, whose deaths are claimed to be fungal related

Video courtesy of WPXI:

Five mold-infection-related deaths occurred at the Presbyterian and Montefiore hospital campuses since October 2014.

Previously, the UPMC settled out of court with two families of deceased patients who died due to the mold, for $1.3million each. The third victim contracted an infection in the transplant unit at the Montefiore campus, reported CNN.

In a report commissioned privately by the medical center, investigators found evidence of mold at the hospitals and areas of Paris Healthcare Linen facility. The system initiated the report in September 2015 after three patients died in relation to the mold.

DuVall died in February of 2016 and Krieg died in July of 2016. The hospital center received the report back in May 2016.

The lawsuit claims that the hospitals knew there was possible mold contamination with bed sheets supplied by Paris Healthcare Linen's facility in DuBois, Pennsylvania

The two lawyers representing the families were incredulous at the hospital's 'negligence', reported KDKA.

Attorney Brendan Lupetin said: 'Lo and behold, when they go and investigate where the laundry is actually being laundered, it turns out that the facility is covered in the exact type of fungus that led to infections that killed these patients.'

Attorney Jerry Meyers said: 'You go to a hospital, the one thing you can expect is to have clean sheets, not dirty sheets! Dirty sheets? What a reason for a person to die.'
Changing the Guard ceremonies at Windsor Castle have been cancelled amid fears of a devastating Berlin or Nice-style lorry attack by terrorists.

The time-honoured military tradition will no longer take place on Saturdays because police believe jihadis could target soldiers and the thousands of tourists who gather to enjoy the spectacle.

Twelve people were killed and 50 more were injured when a terrorist drove a heavy truck into a packed Christmas market in Berlin at 40mph. And last July, 86 people were killed and another 434 were hurt when a jihadi drove a 19-ton lorry into crowds celebrating Bastille Day in the French city of Nice.

The world famous tradition of the changing of the guard at Windsor Castle (pictured) will now only take place three days a week as a result of security fears in the capital

Following the Berlin attack, Thames Valley Police ordered Army top brass to change their ceremonial timetable in Windsor to avoid the busiest times of the week.

As a result, troops will only march through the town in their red tunics and bearskins on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Security has also been stepped up with armed police checkpoints and road closures.

Angela Merkel (left) and Francois Hollande (right) lay flowers to commemorate the victims of the terror attack in Berlin in December 2016. Such attacks have prompted Thames Valley Police to order the army to alter the schedule for the Changing of the Guard

But the move, which will be trialled for three months, has been attacked by local residents and traders, who fear they will lose money if the Saturday ceremonies are axed permanently.

Mother-of-two Polly Miller, 37, said: Families wont be able to go during the week because of school and work commitments. I think you are going to get a generation of disengaged British people, which is a shame.

Islamic State is already thought to have terror cells in the UK. The jihadis are believed to be plotting a massacre on the scale of the atrocities in Berlin and Nice.

The tradition (pictured) will no longer take place on Saturdays because police believe jihadis could target soldiers and tourists who gather for the spectacle

Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace has also been switched to fixed days as part of the shake-up, with armed police following the soldiers as they parade along the Mall.

The Mail on Sunday revealed in December 2014 how Royal Guards were being removed from posts including Clarence House and St Jamess Palace amid fears of a lone-wolf attack.

The world-renowned ceremonies involving the Guards regiments have taken place since the 17th Century but are now under unprecedented threat.

A Thames Valley Police spokesperson said: Security measures have been increased in relation to the Changing the Guard in Windsor.

These measures have been put in place as part of a review in order to reassure and increase the safety of the public and military.
Iran has suggested they will retaliate against Donald Trump's immigration and visa ban as other world leaders hit back at the U.S. president's executive order.

The Iranian foreign ministry plans to limit issuing visas to American tourists to counteract Trump's executive order introduced on Friday.

They announced the move as Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said they would take in refugees refused by the United States.

He tweeted on Saturday: 'To those fleeing persecution, terror & war, Canadians will welcome you, regardless of your faith. Diversity is our strength.'

Iran is one of seven Muslim countries blacklisted under the executive order.

The official IRNA news agency carried a statement by the foreign ministry on Saturday detailing plans to resort to 'counteraction'.

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President Donald Trump signed an executive order Friday providing for 'extreme vetting' of immigrants and visa holders from seven Muslim countries, including Iran

Iran and its President Hassan Rouhani announced that they will be retaliating the ban as Justin Trudeau opened his arms

They announced the move as Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said they would take in refugees refused by the United States.

'Iran, to defend the dignity of the great Iranian nation, will implement the principle of reciprocity until the removal of the insulting restriction against Iranian nationals,' it read.

'It will apply corresponding legal, consular and political actions.'

The two countries have had no diplomatic relations since 1979 when militants stormed the U.S. embassy.

It comes as anger erupted from other world leaders in relation to the refugee ban.

French president Francois Hollande vigorously urged European leaders to present a united front against populism.

French president Francois Hollande (pictured with German Chanceloor Angela Merkel) urged European leaders to present a united front against populism following Trump's refugee ban

Turkish prime minister Binali Yildirim said 'you cannot settle this issue by building walls'

'Europe is facing a moment of truth. The issue is populism. What we are hearing from the U.S. encourages populism and even extremism. They are saying that Europe should not take immigrants, shouldn't stay together, not believe in climate change,' he said.

'We should engage in discussions (with the U.S.) that sometimes should be very firm... When he rejects the arrival of refugees, while Europe has done its duty, we should respond to him.'

The German foreign minister noted that 'love thy neighbor' was a key part of America's Christian traditions and Turkish prime minister Binali Yildirim insisted that 'you cannot settle this issue by building walls.'

Turkey has admitted some 3 million Syrian refugees since the start of the war in its neighbor.

'They came here to save their lives and our doors were open. And if the same thing happened again, we would do it again,' he said.

Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon shared Trudeau's tweet and said banned immigrants would also be welcome in Scotland.

Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon shared Trudeau's tweet and said banned immigrants would also be welcome in Scotland
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A Miami church where one man who called himself the Son of God began a black supremacist group now stands in complete shambles, 10 years after its leader's death.

There is no evidence now of the heyday of the Nation of Yahweh, which founder Yahweh ben Yahweh turned into a national movement in the 1980s and created a multi-million dollar empire.

It was here that Yahweh first spouted the words that would become his church's gospel as he raged against 'white devils' and that African Americans, who the group saw as the original Israelites, would one day return to Israel.

This Miami church would be the first in the Nation of Yahweh, a black supremacist movement started by Yahweh ben Yahweh

In this now dilapidated room was where Yahweh formed his gospel - that white people were the 'devil' and that African Americans, who the group saw as the original Israelites, would one day return to Israel

There is no evidence now of the heyday of the Nation of Yahweh, which Yahweh turned into a national movement in the 1980s and created a multi-million dollar empire

The Nation of Yahweh followers believed that Yahweh (pictured), who died in 2007, was their Messiah. Yahweh, who always wore a jeweled white turban, once told a group of Miami business leaders that he was the 'world's greatest attraction'

The group's inner circle, known as the Brotherhood, were reportedly required to kill a white person. Yahweh expected them to bring a severed head or ear as proof.

In the nation's heyday, Yahweh - who called himself the 'Original Jew' - would walk around in a jeweled white turban and was always flanked by a group of bodyguards who carried wooden staffs for protection.

Yahweh's empire included hotels, grocery stores, apartment complexes, schools, Greyhound buses and white Rolls Royce cars.

He once claimed to have 20,000 followers spread across 45 cities, according to Washington Post.

Yahweh's empire once included hotels, grocery stores, apartment complexes, schools, Greyhound buses and white Rolls Royce cars. All that's left of its first church is abandoned furniture and ceilings that are falling apart

Yahweh once claimed to have 20,000 followers spread across 45 cities that believed in the Nation of Yahweh

Yahweh's empire included hotels, grocery stores, apartment complexes, schools, Greyhound buses and white Rolls Royces

Yahweh was also applauded for his efforts to rebuild and rehabilitate the Miami-Dad community, receiving the highest humanitarian award from the Miami Urban League and getting a day named after him by the Miami mayor in 1990.

Just a month later Yahweh would be charged with federal racketeering and conspiracy to commit murder.

Yahweh was linked to 14 murders, as well as two attempts, an a terrorist-style bombing of a block in Delray Beach after some of his supporters were beaten up.

During the trial it was revealed that Yahweh controlled everything in the lives of the people in his group, from their clothing to their sex lives - and that the leader would often have sex with his underage female disciples.

The Nation of Yahweh first fell apart after Yahweh was charged with conspiracy to commit murder in 1990

It was revealed that Yahweh was tied to at least 14 murders and had sex with underage female followers

Many of Yahweh's followers were disgusted and they renounced the man they once had called their God. Yahweh was sentenced to prison and the once flourishing Nation of Yahweh largely disappeared

Yahweh was sentenced to 18 years in prison and served nine before he was released on parole in 2001.

He was banned from having any communication with his former followers, though many of his disciples had already left the church and renounced their former God.

Yahweh died at the age of 71 from prostate cancer in 2007.

The once flourishing Nation has largely disappeared, losing most of its real estate and many of its followers, although it is still active to this day.
The note is one that could only be sent between dear friends.

Penned in the neat feminine script familiar to those with whom she corresponded, Jackie Kennedy touchingly pays tribute to the depth of her late husbands regard for his old companion, alongside her own affection.

I wish I could give you the most precious thing that belonged to him  as precious as your friendship was to him  but nothing tangible could ever express that, she writes. So please accept this with all my love. Jackie.

This refers to a book of poetry by Shelley, taken from the personal library of John F. Kennedy and containing his presidential bookplate.

Lord Harlech (David Ormsby-Gore) and and Jackie Kennedy and Lady Harlech on board the Queen Mary in New York, 1965

He had been assassinated just six months earlier, and now his widow was sending as a birthday gift a book which, she confides, her late husband had kept in his room at the White House.

The recipient was David Ormsby-Gore, the 5th Lord Harlech, a former British Ambassador to the US and one of JFKs most intimate confidantes.

Following the Presidents tragic death, the grief his old friend shared with Jackie cemented their own close friendship.

It was so close, that when Lord Harlechs wife Sissy died in a car crash four years later, rumours of romance between the pair swept through Washington, with one leading US newspaper proclaiming him The Man Most Likely To Win Jackie.

They travelled around the world and he is even said to have proposed at Angkor Wat in Cambodia.

But it was not to be: Jackie instead married shipping tycoon Aristotle Onassis, though it remained no bar to her continued affection for her old friend.

Yet only now has the true extent of their bond come to light following the decision by Jasset Ormsby-Gore, the current Lord Harlech, to auction the contents of his family home, Glyn Cywarch, to help restore the property to its former glory.

The 100th anniversary of JFKs birth has coincided with the film Jackie, for which its star Natalie Portman has been nominated for an Oscar

Among magnificent Old Masters and antique jewellery on sale in March through auction house Bonhams are books personally inscribed and gifted to Lord Harlechs grandfather by Jackie Kennedy, in which her love and affection are all too evident. In one inscription, she writes of the shining times she and her late husband had spent with the Ormsby-Gores.

The discovery is poignant, coming as it does in the year of the 100th anniversary of JFKs birth, as well as the release of a new film Jackie, for which its star Natalie Portman has been nominated for an Oscar.

Astonishingly, while Lord Harlech knew of the close family ties with the Kennedys, he had no idea the books existed.

These items, along with so many others, have been rediscovered for the first time in decades or even generations, Jasset reveals.

He sadly passed away before I was born, but I knew my grandfather had been British Ambassador to the US. Growing up I would look at photographs from that era with great interest. There is much history that binds the Kennedys and Ormsby-Gores. The friendship between the families dates back to the 1930s, when JFKs father Joseph was US Ambassador to Britain.

When David grew up he, too, forged a career in politics, entering Parliament in 1950 and making his mark in several Foreign Office posts.

He had been assassinated just six months earlier, and now his widow was sending as a birthday gift a book which, she confides, her late husband had kept in his room at the White House

When, in 1961, his old friend became President, Ormsby-Gore was sent to Washington as British Ambassador by Prime Minister Harold Macmillan.

That the Ormsby-Gores were at the heart of the Kennedy administration is in little doubt: their black ambassadorial Rolls-Royce was seen parked at the White House most days.

Jackie later said her husband used to claim that Ormsby-Gore was the brightest man hed ever met.

My grandfather is known to have played a significant role in ensuring Britains views were taken into account during the Cuban Missile Crisis and later helped to secure the first Nuclear Test Ban Treaty in 1963, says Jasset. In the same year as the treaty was signed, JFK was shot while travelling in a cavalcade through the streets of Dallas. Ormsby-Gore was one of the pallbearers at his funeral.

Poignantly, a month later Jackie presented David and his wife Sissy with a maroon calf-bound volume containing inaugural addresses of the presidents of the United States. In it, she wrote: Jack was going to give you this for Christmas  please accept it now from me  with all my love and all the memories of the shining times we had with him. Jackie, December 1963. The volume forms part of the sale.

Lord Harlech and his second wife, Pamela Collins, London editor of American Vogue

Five months later she sent him the volume of Shelleys poetry  her late husbands personal and much treasured copy. Accompanied by a note written on black-edged mourning stationery, she asks him to please accept it with all her love.

The families remained close and when Sissy was killed after her car skidded on a wet road in 1967, Jackie flew to England for the funeral, weeping at Sissys grave in Oswestry, near the Ormsby-Gore family seat.

Both grieving the loss of their partners, David and Jackie proved a great comfort to one another. But the friendship was not entirely without its shadows. Prior to his death last year, Jassets father Francis  Davids son  recalled that his mother Sissy was wary of Jackie, telling Francis: You should be aware this charming American woman carries around with her an aura of tragedy. Her ill luck, or whatever it is, will haunt not only her but anyone deeply involved with her.

Their friendship remained platonic, with Jackie instead marrying Onassis. The following year, Lord Harlech married Pamela Colin, an American journalist who bore an uncanny resemblance to Jackie.

Yet the passage of time, alongside distance, apparently did little to dim their mutual fondness and when, in 1985, David also died in a car crash, Jackie attended his funeral.

Ten years later, when she lay dying of cancer in her New York apartment, she is said to have spoken of her regret that she did not accept Lord Harlechs proposal. If she had, then one part of American and British history would have played out rather differently. As it is, the sale of this extraordinary slice of Kennedy history affords us a peek into a unique transatlantic bond.
Ross Kemp has revealed his terror after being held by an armed tribe in Libya for 12 hours while filming a documentary.

The tough television presenter was trapped inside a building with another tribe in Sabha, Libya, while his would-be kidnappers waited outside.

Kemp was in the African country to shoot an investigation into human trafficking operations and 'violent extremism'.

Ross Kemp, pictured, has revealed he was trapped in a building in Libya while filming a new documentary (pictured)

The former EastEnders star, pictured in Libya, said he was interviewing a tribe when an armed rival clan arrived and 'wanted to kidnap him'

He was filming for Ross Kemp: Extreme World, pictured, which starts on February 21

He told the Mirror it was one of the 'best' he had ever filmed, but also the 'most dangerous'.

Kemp said: 'We had a number of people outside the building we were in with weapons. And the tribe that we were with had to defend us because this other clan wanted to take us.

'There was a stand-off for about 12 hours. We nearly had to be lifted out.'

Kemp added he interviewed migrants who were being kept in 'detention camps' by various militia.

He said they were surviving on 'three pieces of cheese a day' as well as bread and 'dirty water'.

Kemp, pictured in Libya, said he also interviewed migrants being kept in 'detention camps' by various tribes

The 52-year-old said he saw people 'dying' in the camps but that 'nothing was done'

Kemp told the Mirror: 'There are three governments out there who say they are in control. But no one is in control in the country. It is on the verge of becoming a non-state.'

He added the country had 'three guns for every person'.

The former EastEnders star added he met people who were 'bleeding and dying', including a pregnant woman whose baby had died, but that 'nothing was being done'.

Last year Kemp was fired on by ISIS snipers as he joined Kurdish fighters on the frontline in Syria.

Last year Kemp, pictured, was fired on by ISIS snipers when filming with Kurdish fighters in Syria

He said people in the camps were surviving on 'three pieces of cheese per day' along with bread and 'dirty water'

The documentary is focusing on human trafficking in the region and 'violent extremism'

The jihadists targeted the actor, 52, and his crew while filming a new documentary set to be released this week.

Kemp was sheltering in rubble with Kurdish fighters battling ISIS when a bullet fired from 300 metres away flew over his head.

It then cracked against a wall behind him and sent shrapnel flying before he was forced to sprint away to safety across a section of open ground.

The Libya shoot was for the latest series of his Sky show Ross Kemp: Extreme World, which starts on February 21.
Max Mosley has donated 1.2 million for controversial drugs research  including funding for a former Government adviser who was sacked for claiming ecstasy was no worse than alcohol.

The ex-Formula 1 boss donated 600,000 for research by Professor David Nutt, who led a study last year into the use of magic mushrooms to treat depression.

Prof Nutt, who works at Imperial College London, lost his Government job in 2009 amid criticism he was trivialising the dangers of drugs.

Max Mosley has given 1.2m for drugs research to controversial scientists some of whom have advocated the use of drugs to treat medical conditions

Mr Mosley has also given 600,000 through his family trust to psychiatrist Ben Sessa, who wants MDMA  the main ingredient of ecstasy  to be prescribed as a treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder.

The trust was set up in the name of Mr Mosleys son, Alexander, a heroin addict who was found dead at his London home in 2009, aged 39.

He had taken 11 times more cocaine than a potentially fatal dose, along with other drugs including ecstasy, heroin, ketamine, amphetamines and methadone.

Last year Mr Mosley was revealed to be almost single-handedly bankrolling Impress, the state-approved organisation set up to offer independent regulation of the Press. It admits it will rely on 3.8 million in donations over four years from the Alexander Mosley Charitable Trust.

Neither Prof Nutt nor Mr Sessa has publicly announced that Mr Mosley is providing funding or revealed if the money has been spent. Mr Mosley declined to comment.
Britain is sending one of its most advanced warships to the Black Sea  the first time the Royal Navy has deployed there on an operational mission since the Cold War.

In a dramatic show of strength by Theresa May, HMS Diamond, a Type 45 destroyer equipped with the latest anti-aircraft rockets, will set sail for Ukraine carrying up to 60 Special Boat Service and Royal Marine commandos.

The move is part of the biggest British military build-up on Russias borders for decades, and comes after the Prime Minister told US politicians that Britain and America should stand up to President Vladimir Putin.

In a dramatic show of strength by Theresa May, HMS Diamond, a Type 45 destroyer equipped with the latest anti-aircraft rockets, will set sail for Ukraine

HMS Diamond will lead a Nato task force and help protect 650 British troops who are involved in secret exercises in Ukraine  a country invaded by Russian-backed rebels in 2014.

UK experts are already teaching infantry skills to thousands of Ukrainian troops. The high-tech warship, which was launched in 2007 and entered service three years later, will carry Sea Viper missiles.

Travelling at nearly 3,000mph, the radar-guided warheads have a range of up to 70 miles and can destroy enemy jets and drones.

Should HMS Diamond come under close-range attack, the ship is protected by a modern-day Gatling gun known as Phalanx  it fires 20mm shells at a rate of 3,000 rounds a minute.

The ships amphibious warfare troops will be flown to and from HMS Diamond by Lynx Mk8 helicopter, which uses a helipad at the stern.

Last night, Lord West, a former head of the Royal Navy, said: We have undertaken many naval exercises in the Black Sea in the past but these were much more benign circumstances and with benign intentions.

HMS Diamond will lead a Nato task force and help protect 650 British troops who are involved in secret exercises in Ukraine  a country invaded by Russian-backed rebels in 2014

This is an operation with a very serious purpose. HMS Diamond can really look after herself and President Putin is a man who respects hard military power. Nato has to show it wont be threatened and that the UK takes the lead.

Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon told The Mail on Sunday last night: The values of freedom and democracy cannot be traded. Britain is stepping up on the global stage and standing firm with our Ukrainian friends.

The UK is sending a clear message that we are committed to defending democracy across the world and support Ukraines sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity.

The ships amphibious warfare troops will be flown to and from HMS Diamond by Lynx Mk8 helicopter, which uses a helipad at the stern

HMS Diamonds arrival in the Black Sea is expected to coincide with the deployment of British soldiers to other Eastern European states. About 800 troops will be stationed in Estonia this summer, while a further 200 are being sent to Poland.

The RAF is also sending Typhoon fighter jets to Romania.

The British military hardware build-up is in response to Russia massing troops and tanks in the Ukrainian peninsula of Crimea and along its borders with Baltic states.

The Ukrainian government says it fears a Russian invasion could take place at any minute.
One of Britains top cyber experts has warned that Russian hackers are able to penetrate the countrys military computers.

Major General Jonathan Shaw, a former head of the UKs cyber defences security programme, said nothing could be done to stop the attacks, which may lead to top-secret information being read by Vladimir Putin.

The retired officer also claimed he expects 800 British troops to be targeted by Russian cyber attacks when they deploy to Estonia this summer.

The retired general suggested limiting the information stored on military computers

Maj Gen Shaw said: The Russians are past masters at electronic warfare. They will be trying to hack into our systems and we should recognise that total cyber security in unachievable.

Essentially we cannot defend ourselves, so it is better to limit the information we store on our military computers.

'Technologically speaking, Id say the Russians were competing with us but they are ahead of us in heir willingness to test the boundaries.

'Theyre not as morally or politically constrained as us.

In 2007, Estonia suffered a huge cyber attack, but no one was ever found responsible.
A FedEx delivery man is being praised as a patriot for stopping a group of protesters from lighting American flags on fire.

Matt Uhrin intervened twice during a small protest against racial and social injustices in Iowa City, Iowa, as the group set the stars and stripes alight.

He can be seen on video scuffling with protesters and wrestling the flag from them as he uses a fire extinguisher to put out the flames.

A FedEx delivery man is being praised as a patriot for stopping a group of protesters from lighting American flags on fire

Happening now: a confrontation on the ped mall as people burn an American flag as protest. pic.twitter.com/aPkMdls6oQ  Stephen GruberMiller (@sgrubermiller) January 26, 2017

Two protesters, Kelli Ebensberger, 21, of Iowa City, and Paul Osgerby, 23, of Ames, were arrested during the incident on Thursday for open burning - a misdemeanor in Iowa, according to WQAD.

Uhrin can be heard telling protesters to 'back off' as they try to retrieve the flags.

FedEx originally said that they would be investigating the incident and Uhrin's actions did not reflect the company.

Two protesters, Kelli Ebensberger, 21, of Iowa City, and Paul Osgerby, 23, of Ames, were arrested during the incident on Thursday for open burning - a misdemeanor in Iowa

Matt Uhrin intervened twice during a small protest against racial and social injustices in Iowa City, Iowa, as the group set the stars and stripes alight

Twitter was quick to respond to the video, which went viral overnight and prompted the hashtag #fedexguy, hailing him as a hero for American nationalism.

One user said: 'You've got a hero working out here in Iowa City, @FedEx. Can you thank him for us? Love, Iowa City #MERICA #FedExGuy #GodBlessTheUSA'

FedEx announced Saturday morning that Uhrin would be remain employed with the company, following a petition signed by thousands to urge the delivery service to let him keep his job.

FedEx announced Saturday morning that Uhrin would be remain employed with the company, following a petition signed by thousands to urge the delivery service to let him keep his job

One user said: 'Hey @FedEx don't fire #fedexguy. All he did was deliver a big ol' box of America today'
Ten people in Tennessee were injured in a mass shooting during a party at a National Guard Armory on Friday.

Authorities said shots were fired after a fight broke out at the armory in Brownsville around 11.45pm.

Two juveniles and eight adults were hit when a gunman opened fire into the crowd of partygoers.

None suffered life-threatening injuries.

Ten people in Tennessee were injured in a mass shooting during a party at a National Guard Armory (pictured) in Brownsville on Friday. None suffered life-threatening injuries

The victims were taken to a local hospital and seven have since been treated and released.

Two victims are being transported to The Med in Memphis with non-life threatening injuries.

It is believed the facility had been rented out for the party that night.

The scene at the armory has since been cleared.

Witnesses are being interviewed by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, which is investigating the shooting with the Brownsville Police Department.
A Mississippi man has captured hearts across the nation with an animated account of the deadly tornado that hit his town last weekend, killing four.

Standing amid the rubble of ruined houses in Hattiesburg, Mississippi earlier this week, David Alexander described to the Weather Channel the carnage wrought by the January 21 tornado.

The tornado that hit the town of 47,000, about 90 miles south east of Jackson, Mississippi, was a devastating EF-3 with winds of up to 145mph.

'I was at the house, I was in front of the window texting,' Alexander said in an interview that has garnered over a hundred thousand views.

'Get up out the front of the window!' he said his mother told him. 'It's a tornado watch!'

Mississippi man David Alexander (left) was texting by the front window when his mother told him about the tornado watch

'Get up out the front of the window!' Alexander said his mother told him. 'It's a tornado watch!'

'Wooooooooo Woo! The house got to shaking and err'thang,' Alexander told the interviewer.

'The door opened, wind just come flying everywhere woowoowoowoowoo,' said Alexander.

Then a call came from a cousin on Alcorn Street, the other side of town.

'We tried to go save him, you know what I'm saying, but it didn't even work out,' Alexander observed.

The National Weather Service confirmed that one man died on Alcorn Street when a tree struck a home.

Shown is the tornado track from the January 21 storm. The tornado killed four and destroyed hundreds of homes

'Wooooooooo Woo! The house got to shaking and err'thang,' Alexander told the interviewer. 'The door opened, wind just come flying everywhere woowoowoowoowoo,' said Alexander

A call came from a cousin on Alcorn Street, the other side of town. 'We tried to go save him, you know what I'm saying, but it didn't even work out,' Alexander observed. Authorities confirmed one man died on Alcorn Street when a tree struck a home

En route to help the cousin, Alexander's car became stuck on the west side town.

'I'm on Martin Luther King Street, we get stuck,' he said.

'It's the west side, it's already wicked over here, but you know it's real wicked now man.'

Alexander decried the lack of assistance in the tornado's aftermath.

'Folk got families and stuff man, I'm talking like ain't nobody helping nobody or nothing.'

The town's residents had been left to fend for themselves, he said: 'Everybody helping each other, you feel me.'
Theresa May was forced to perform a dramatic U-turn last night and condemned Donald Trumps ban on Muslim migrants entering the US.

She performed a somersault hours after refusing three times to criticise the US Presidents controversial policy during her visit to Turkey. Her change of tack, when she landed back in London late last night, followed an international outcry and a revolt from Tory MPs.

Downing Street issued a hurried statement saying that the Prime Minister had changed her mind and was opposed to Trumps decision.

MAY'S BACKROOM GANG TAKES CENTRE STAGE Theresa May's background team, pictured, took centre stage at a formal lunch in Turkey with President Erdogan The remarkable clout of Theresa Mays key backroom team  joint chiefs of staff Fiona Hill and Nick Timothy  was thrown into the spotlight yesterday at a formal lunch with Turkeys President Erdogan. Sir Mark Lyall Grant, the PMs national security adviser, was shunted down the table so Hill, who restyled Mays wardrobe, could be at her side. Meanwhile, tieless and bearded Timothy, her political strategist, was separated from May only by British ambassador to Turkey Richard Moore . Advertisement

During her Turkey visit Mrs May was put on the spot about Trumps extreme vetting policy by a heckler who shouted: What about the US? She replied: The United States is responsible for the United States policy on refugees.

The Presidents executive order means tens of thousands of British citizens will have to visit an American embassy to apply for work visas or renew existing visas.

Until now they have been exempt from the immigration process and simply had to fill out a form and post it to the State Department when reapplying for a work visa.

Mr Trump said his decision to refuse visas for 90 days to migrants or visitors from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen was needed to make America safe from radical Islamic terrorists.

But it led to pandemonium at US airports, worldwide protests from human rights groups  and is set to hit next months Oscars ceremony.

Thousands of citizens living legally in America can now no longer leave for fear of being unable to return.

The Department of Homeland Security said the order barred green card holders from the seven countries from re-entering the US  a move which potentially affects half a million people.

Reports in the US told of students attending universities abroad being unable to get back while others were stopped as they returned from funerals.

Mrs May was dragged into the furore over Donald Trump's 'Muslim migrant ban' after refusing to condemn it three times while in Turkey. She is pictured with Prime Minister Binali Yildirim

Mrs May, pictured with Mr Yildirim, was quizzed about President Trump's 'extreme vetting' policy but would not speak out against it

Tech giant Google ordered potentially affected staff, said to number 100, to try to return to the US immediately, saying: Were concerned about the impact of this order.

Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg, whose wife Priscillas parents are immigrants from China and Vietnam, posted an emotional message: Had we turned away refugees a few decades ago, Priscillas family wouldnt be here today.

Reports claimed the US State Department also planned to bar citizens from the seven targeted countries who enjoy dual nationality, potentially affecting millions of people.

Hundreds of protesters gathered at New Yorks JFK Airport last night to demonstrate against the policy.

One Twitter user pointed out that athlete Sir Mo Farah, who was born in Somalia  on Trumps banned list  but enjoys UK citizenship, will be prevented from returning to the Nike training facility in Oregon.

Mrs May came under fire from Harry Potter author JK Rowling who compared her refusal to Neville Chamberlain appeasing Hitler before the Second World War.

It came a day after Mrs May met the new US President in Washington, pictured

Frances outgoing president Francois Hollande warned Trump in a phone call: In an unstable and uncertain world, turning inward would be a dead end.

And Canadas Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wrote online: To those fleeing persecution, terror and war, Canadians will welcome you.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn attacked Trumps hideous and appalling actions.

And Tory MP Sarah Wollaston branded Mr Trump a sickening piece of work who should be banned during his State visit later this year from addressing MPs and peers. Another Tory MP, James Cleverly, branded Trumps ban indefensible on Twitter.

But Trump insisted his crackdown is not a Muslim ban and is working out very nicely.
Janel Charlene Francis, 45, is facing charges of murder for killing her son and stabbing her daughter following a home dispute in Pensacola, Florida, on Tuesday

A Florida grandmother was arrested after she 'stabbed her daughter in the neck and killed her son', all in the presence of her two grandchildren who were left covered in blood.

Janel Charlene Francis, 45, is facing charges of murder for killing son Devan Francis, 18, and stabbing daughter Gabrielle Torrence, 24, following a home dispute in Pensacola, Florida, on Tuesday.

Torrence's two young children, ages four and five, were in the mobile home at the time of Francis' attack and hysterically told a witness: 'Granny just killed momma'.

The murder and attempted murder is being investigated as a domestic violence incident, and no motive has been found yet, Escambia County Sheriff said.

The stabbings took place at Heritage Oaks Mobile Home Park off of Gulf Beach Highway in Pensacola, Florida on Tuesday morning.

One of the children said the attack started when she was playing with Torrence, when Francis came at the child's mother with a kitchen knife and stabbed the 24-year-old in the neck, reported the Pensacola News Journal.

The children initially thought Torrence, who was found heavily bleeding in the street, was killed by Francis who began 'poking her in the neck with a knife'.

A witness who ran to the trailer home when she heard screams, found the young children crying, screaming and covered in blood.

Devan Francis (left), 18, and Gabrielle Torrence (right), 24, were allegedly stabbed by their mother Janel Francis at Heritage Oaks Mobile Home Park off of Gulf Beach Highway. The attack was carried out in front of Torrence's two young children, ages four and five

Torrence's two children were in the mobile home (pictured) when Francis' began her attack. They hysterically said to a witness: 'Granny just killed momma'. They were found with blood on their hands and clothes

Video courtesy of WKRG:

Devan, 18, apparently came into the room when Francis was attacking Torrence. His mother then began stabbing him, according to police

The children are now in the care of their great-grandmother who also lives in the mobile home park (pictured)

Devan Francis was killed when he came into the room and his mother started attacking him, according to police.

One of the children told officers he saw Francis laying over Devan's body and she began stabbing herself in the chest.

The children are now in the care of their great-grandmother who also lives in the mobile home park.

Francis was taken to hospital and her condition is not known.

Torrence is in the ICU at Baptist Hospital and was taken for trauma treatment.

She said in a Facebook post on Friday night that her mother had 'pierced her lung and three-fourths of her heart' in the stabbing.

Torrence was found bleeding severely and laying in the street by a witness. The mother-of-two said in a Facebook post on Friday night that her mother had 'pierced her lung and three-fourths of her heart' in the stabbing

She wrote: 'Sorry you guys today is the first day I'm coming around a bit. I thank you all for the love and prayers through this very hard time. I'm here by miracle.

'She got 3\4 of my heart. Pierced it all the way through. She pierced my lung. I've had three procedures. Two of the three were open heart surgery and they just took me off the ventilator.

'They took three other tubes out today as well two from my stomach that ran to my chest and one from my heart they say I'm recovering good and at an amazing speed it really is a miracle and thank god my children weren't harmed through this they were witness to everything.

'I just ask for prayers because its really hit me today that my baby brother is no longer here I tried to save him and I couldn't. It's a miracle in here, they brought me back to life. This is just a nightmare and I love all the support.'
Commons invitation: Kremlin mouthpiece Maria Zakharova wins fans in Russia performing a folk dance

Boris Johnson is furious at a decision to let Russian President Vladimir Putins Kremlin mouthpiece launch a blistering attack on Britain from inside the Commons tomorrow.

Russian spin doctor and Putin confidante Maria Zakharova, who has called the Foreign Secretary shameful, is guest of honour at a glittering reception at the Commons Terrace Pavilion overlooking the Thames.

Embarrassingly for the Government, the event has been organised by Tory MP Daniel Kawczynski, who has been accused in the past of being gushing towards the Russians. Last night, there were calls by MPs for Mr Kawczynski to be stripped of his membership of the all-party Commons Foreign Affairs Select Committee.

One said: Putin will be laughing out loud that we are feting his nasty sidekick in the heart of our own Parliament. Kawczynski is a reckless fool.

The editor in chief of the hardline pro-Putin TV station Russia Today, Margarita Simonyan, will also be present.

Former Foreign Office Minister Sir Hugo Swire said: Meeting these people is neither timely nor appropriate, let alone helpful. We dont need Putins propaganda machine given a veneer of credibility by effectively giving him a platform in the British Parliament.

Some Tories claim the meeting undermines Theresa Mays warning to Donald Trump at their White House summit not to get too close to Putin, in which she urged him to engage but beware.

Mr Kawczynskis email invitation to MPs, leaked to The Mail on Sunday, is headed Terrace Pavilion event on Soft Power. It reads: It is my pleasure to invite you to a panel discussion session I am co-hosting with Russia Today. I hope you can join us for what I know will be a stimulating and valuable discussion.

Maria Zakharova has called Boris Johnson shameful, and called Barack Obama a shallow-brained loser

Polish-born Mr Kawczynski argued last year: Putin is not going to go away soon. He also said that Putins Russia was not our ideological nemesis, to be defeated like the Soviet Union. The MPs invite gives star billing to Putins outspoken propagandist with her full Kremlin title, Maria Zakharova, Director of the Information and Press Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation.

Striking blonde Ms Zakharova, 41, has powerful backing from Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. She became a celebrity in Russia last year after performing a Russian folk dance at political conference in Sochi.

She has made a series of highly provocative statements in recent years, often attacking Britain. In recent months, she has appeared to go out of her way to goad Johnson.

Boris Johnson is said to be furious about the decision to have the Kremlin mouthpiece as guest of honour at the event organised by Daniel Kawczynski

In October, Ms Zakharova targeted Johnson after the British Foreign Secretary said Russia risked becoming a pariah state. She said she was ashamed for him.

In January last year, she rejected a politically motivated British inquiry that concluded that Putin knew about the plot to murder former Russian agent Alexander Litvinenko in London in 2006.

She also turned her fire on Prince Charles after he compared Russias intervention in Ukraine to Hitlers foreign policy, saying the Prince and his son Harry had special relations with Nazis.

She has also called Barack Obama a shallow-brained loser.

She has proved her total loyalty to Putin time and again. When Lavrov was caught by a rogue microphone calling Saudi diplomats f****** imbeciles, she shrugged it off, claiming: He coughed.

In 2008, she helped stop George Clooney addressing the United Nations on the Sudan humanitarian crisis because of fears that it conflicted with Russian foreign policy.

She also claimed Trump won the US election thanks to Jewish votes.

Mr Kawczynski was unavailable for comment last night.
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A federal court has granted an emergency stay blocking the deportation of migrants detained at airports around the United States due to Donald Trump's immigration ban.

The federal court for the Eastern District of New York issued the stay Saturday evening after only two of 12 refugees held at JFK airport were released, after 14 and 24 hours respectively. The ACLU had filed a petition on their behalf, but the stay is effective nationwide. Under the stay, none of the travelers held at airports across the nation can be sent back. However, the measure doesn't mean they have to be allowed into the country - leaving them in a grey area.

Earlier on Saturday, Donald Trump defended his new immigration measures, which prompted outrage as migrants were barred from entering the United States, including families of refugees and Ivy League students.

The president denied that his executive order, which bars refugees and citizens of seven predominantly Muslim countries from entering the US, was a Muslim ban.

He maintained that the ban was 'working very nicely' while chaos broke out in airports as migrants were stopped and some non-American citizens realized they were now barred from the country where they were studying or had lived, perhaps for years.

Trump's comments came as migrants around the country were detained in airports because they arrived just after the executive order was signed.

A senior Homeland Security official told Reuters that roughly 375 travelers affected by the order. Out of the 375, 109 were in transit to the US and denied entry. Another 173 people were stopped by airlines from boarding an aircraft to the US. An additional 81 travelers with green cards or special immigrant visas received waivers.

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President Donald Trump on Saturday defended his executive order barring refugees and citizens of seven predominantly Muslim countries from entering the country

Trump (pictured speaking with Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull Saturday) made several phone calls with world leaders from Japan, Germany, Russia and France while the crisis unfolded

A crowd of protesters gathered on Brooklyn's Cadman Plaza Saturday night, outside of the federal court for the Eastern District of New York that issued the stay

Protesters rallied in Brooklyn outside of the federal courthouse, which blocked Trump's order temporarily Saturday evening

Demonstrators rallied outside the courthouse Saturday night as a judge granted the emergency stay protecting the detained travelers from deportation

'No ban': Demonstrators at the massive rally in Brooklyn voiced their disagreement with Trump's executive order

The federal court for the Eastern District of New York issued an emergency stay (pictured) Saturday evening. The stay means that none of the travelers detained in airports around the country can be deported

'It's not a Muslim ban, but we are totally prepared,' Trump told reporters in the Oval Office Saturday afternoon, according to The Hill.

'It's working out very nicely. You see it in the airports, you see it all over. It's working out very nicely and we are going to have a very, very strict ban and we are going to have extreme vetting, which we should have had in this country for many years.'

WHAT IS THE EMERGENCY STAY? The emergency stay issued Saturday evening by a federal court is a temporary measure that preserves the status quo pending a permanent ruling. It means that none of the travelers currently held at airports across the nation can be deported back to their countries. That is because Judge Ann Donnelly ruled that doing so would cause the travelers irreparable harm. The stay does not, however, mean that the travelers have to be let into the United States. It is unclear what will happen to those detained. The stay is not a ruling on Donald Trump's executive order enforcing the immigration ban. Lawyers had filed a petition on behalf of two out of 12 refugees detained at JFK airport. The men, two Iraqi nationals, had valid visas. One of them had worked for the US government for years. ACLU attorneys had filed a petition on their behalf, but the stay is effective nationwide. The lawyers who handled the case have also filed for class certification, which means other people affected by the order will be able to benefit from the stay as part of a class action. Advertisement

The stay issued Saturday evening blocks the situation pending a permanent ruling. The ACLU lawyers who handled the case have also filed a motion for class certification, which means other people affected by the order will be able to benefit from the stay as part of a class action.

Judge Donnelly also ordered the government to give a list of people detained due to Trump's order.

The measure means detained travelers cannot be deported back to their home countries, but it does not force authorities to allow them into the US. Judge Ann Donnelly ruled that sending them back would expose them to irreparable harm.

Trump's ban affects citizens from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen. The temporary stay also protects refugees with an approved case.

It is unclear what will happen to those detained. A later court date has been set for February.

It was reported shortly after the stay was issued that it wasn't being implemented in several airports.

'We have gotten disturbing reports that @CustomBorders is refusing to comply with the court order,' ACLU deputy legal director Cecilia Wang tweeted. She said she had heard reports that officials were refusing to pull people from planes sending them back.

A PhD student detained at JFK was being deported back to Istanbul despite the stay, BBC Persian correspondent Bahman Kalbasi said on Twitter.

The Department of Homeland Security said early on Sunday it would comply with judicial orders not to send back detained travelers.

It said it would 'comply with judicial orders; faithfully enforce our immigration laws, and implement President Trumps Executive Orders to ensure that those entering the United States do not pose a threat to our country or the American people'.

Crowds of demonstrators who had gathered at airports and outside the Brooklyn courthouse let out cheers when news of the temporary stay broke.

'I hope Trump enjoys losing. He's going to lose so much we're going to get sick and tired of his losing,' ACLU national political director Faiz Shakir told Yahoo News.

The ACLU was getting ready to help between 100 and 200 people.

'This ruling preserves the status quo and ensures that people who have been granted permission to be in this country are not illegally removed off US soil, deputy director of the ACLU's Immigrants' Rights Project Lee Gelernt, who argued the case, said.

ACLU Executive Director Anthony D Romero added: 'Clearly the judge understood the possibility for irreparable harm to hundreds of immigrants and lawful visitors to this country.

'Our courts today worked as they should as bulwarks against government abuse or unconstitutional policies and orders. On week one, Donald Trump suffered his first loss in court.'

The National Border Patrol Council, which represents about 18,000 border patrol staffers, previously backed Trump's measures.

'We fully support and appreciate President Trumps swift and decisive action to keep the American people safe and allow law enforcement to do its job,' the council said in a statement.

'We applaud the three executive orders he has issued to date, and are confident they will make America safer and more prosperous. Morale amongst our agents and officers has increased exponentially since the signing of the orders. The men and women of ICE and Border Patrol will work tirelessly to keep criminals, terrorists, and public safety threats out of this country, which remains the number one target in the world  and President Trumps actions now empower us to fulfill this life saving mission, and it will indeed save thousands of lives and billions of dollars.'

Two associate professors at the University Of Massachusetts Dartmouth told the Boston Globe early Sunday they had filed a federal lawsuit against Trump. The professors, who are both Iran citizens and Muslims, say they were held unlawfully at Logan International Airport.

Panic previously broke out after Department of Homeland Security issued a directive at 4:30 pm on Friday enforcing Trump's executive order to close down the borders to refugees and visa holders from a list of banned Muslim-majority countries.

Trump's order singled out Syrians by indefinitely blocking entry for anyone from that country, including those fleeing civil war.

The measure did not address the case of homegrown extremists who are already in the US, a major concern for federal law enforcement.

Reports of people being detained came from all around the US on Saturday. 'They're literally pouring in by the minute,' director of the International Refugee Assistance Project Becca Heller told the New York Times.

About 50 people were held at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, USA Today reported. Fifty people were also detained at Dulles International Airport, where protesters gathered. Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe and Attorney General Mark Herring have said the state could take legal action against the ban.

One Yale student said he would be unable to attend the prestigious Ivy League university. Another student from the Massachusetts Institute Of Technology said he was barred from boarding a plane.

A Stanford University student, a Sudanese national and legal permanent resident with a green card, was held for eight hours at JFK before being able to return to California.

An Iranian scientist was meant to fly to Boston to study cardiovascular medicine at Harvard but has now had his visa suspended indefinitely.

'This outstanding young scientist has enormous potential to make contributions that will improve our understanding of heart disease, and he has already been thoroughly vetted,' Professor Thomas Michel, who was going to supervise the student, told The New York Times.

Up to 13 people were detained at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, KUOW reported. Eleven people were held at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported. Thirteen were detained at Chicago O'Hare according to the Chicago Tribune. At least 50 Iranians were held at Los Angeles International Airport, the LA Times wrote.

Mehdi Radgoudarzi (left) greeted his wife Susan (right) after being detained for five hours upon his arrival from Tehran, Iran at San Francisco's SFO International Airport

Radgoudarzi (center) made his way through the arrival pick up area with his wife Susan (left) and daughter Niloofar (right) after being detained at San Francisco's SFO International Airport as a result of Trump's order

Niloofar (left) gave her father a hug while Radgoudarzi's wife (right) also greeted him at San Francisco International Airport

Mazdak Tootkaboni is pictured being embraced during a demonstration at Logan International Airport in Boston, Massachusetts. Tootkaboni is a US green card holder from Iran and a professor at the University of Massachusetts at Dartmouth, but he was still separated from other passengers and questioned

A female veteran held a sign reading 'We thought we were helping, sorry' at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport

Yolanda Roa, a Latina Muslim, joined the protest to denounce Trump's executive order at Dallas-Fort Worth International

Demonstrators gathered in the international arrivals area at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport to protest on Saturday

Philadelphia mayor Jim Kenney (middle) alongside Councilwoman Helen Gym (left) and Representative Bob Brady, addresses a crowd of protestors inside the Philadelphia International Airport

The massive demonstration carried on through Saturday evening as 10 out of 12 refugees remained held at JFK airport

Police stopped a man giving pizza to protesters who were chanting slogans outside Terminal 4 at JFK airport in New York City

The protest followed Trump's executive order barring refugees and citizens from seven countries from entering the US

Port Authority Police Department blocked an entrance as protesters gathered outside Terminal 4 at JFK airport

A sea of protesters gathered outside of Terminal 4 of JFK after people from Muslim countries were detained at border control

ACLU'S FULL STATEMENT ON THE EMERGENCY STAY A federal judge tonight granted the American Civil Liberties Union's request for a nationwide temporary injunction that will block the deportation of all people stranded in US airports under President Trump's new Muslim ban. The ACLU and other legal organizations filed a lawsuit on behalf of individuals subject to President Trump's Muslim ban. The lead plaintiffs have been detained by the US government and threatened with deportation even though they have valid visas to enter the United States. Lee Gelernt, deputy director of the ACLU's Immigrants' Rights Project who argued the case, said: 'This ruling preserves the status quo and ensures that people who have been granted permission to be in this country are not illegally removed off US soil.' ACLU Executive Director Anthony D Romero, had this reaction to the ruling: 'Clearly the judge understood the possibility for irreparable harm to hundreds of immigrants and lawful visitors to this country. Our courts today worked as they should as bulwarks against government abuse or unconstitutional policies and orders. On week one, Donald Trump suffered his first loss in court.' Source: ACLU Advertisement

Protesters held a massive rally at New York City's JFK airport Saturday after 12 refugees were detained due to the ban

The protest at John F Kennedy International Airport carried on through Saturday as 11 out of 12 people remained detained

'This is illegal': Demonstrators gathered outside JFK Saturday for a long protest after 12 refugees were detained inside

J'accuse: One protester held a sign reading: 'Trump is the terrorist' while another proclaimed: 'This is not how to defeat ISIS!'

One of the JFK protesters demanded more protection for immigrant families, as some were detained around the US

Demonstrators poured into JFK airport all throughout Saturday to express their disagreement with Trump's order

Travelers reported that police stopped allowing people without plane tickets onto the Air Train, which goes to the airport terminals, during the evening (the boarding area to the train is pictured)

Police at one point blocked protesters from accessing the Air Train at JFK but Governor Andrew Cuomo later ordered authorities to let them through

Cuomo said that 'one of the fundamental rights that is granted to the people of this country is the right to peacefully protest' as he ordered police to let demonstrators access the Air Train again

Hundreds gathered at Chicago O'Hare airport Saturday to speak out against Trump's ban on immigration Saturday

'Muslims are welcome': One Chicago protester insisted that all should be able to come to the US regardless of their religion

Hundreds of protesters arrived at Chicago O'Hare airport to protest against Trump's executive order on Saturday

Protestors rallied at a demonstration against the new ban on immigration issued by Trump at Logan International Airport in Boston, Massachusetts

More than 1,000 people gathered at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport to protest Trump's order that restricts immigration

Protesters gathered at the international arrivals area of Dulles International Airport, where 50 people were detained

'America wants you here!' Protesters sent a clear message to all visitors arriving at Washington Dulles International Airport

While a protest unfolded at Dulles International airport, Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe and Attorney General Mark Herring have said the state could take legal action against the ban

Demonstrators also gathered in San Francisco International Airport Saturday to protest against the ban on immigration

'No ban, no wall': One demonstrator spoke out against two of Trump's major campaign promises at the San Francisco rally

Kayla Razavi, whose family emigrated from Iran, addressed the crowd during the San Francisco protest Saturday afternoon

Demonstrators hold signs reading 'Home of the free' during the rally against the ban on immigration in San Francisco

Demonstrators rallied at the Minneapolis-St Paul International Airport Saturday afternoon to protest against Trump's ban

James Badue, who is with the Minnesota NAACP, led other opponents in a chant: 'No hate, no fear, immigrants are welcome here,' as an airport police officer tried to quiet him at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport

Travelers arriving to at the international gate of the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport were greeted by protesters demonstrating against the executive order signed by President Trump

Hillary Clinton tweeted on Saturday evening that she supported those who had chosen to speak out against the ban

Cab drivers at New York City's JFK airport went on strike for an hour from 6 pm to 7 pm Saturday to protest against the ban

HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE BEING DETAINED? A senior Homeland Security official told Reuters that roughly 375 travelers affected by the order. Out of the 375, 109 were in transit to the US and denied entry. Another 173 people were stopped by airlines from boarding an aircraft to the US. An additional 81 travelers with green cards or special immigrant visas received waivers. The ACLU gave an estimate comprised between 100 and 200 people. New York City/JFK: 12 Dallas/Fort Worth: 50 Dulles International: 50 Los Angeles International: 50 SeattleTacoma: 13 Atlanta: 11 Chicago: 13 Advertisement

Two families of six from Syria were affected. One was supposed to relocate to Cleveland, Ohio, after having to flee their home in 2014. But their trip was canceled.

Another family of six from the war-torn country was detained at Philadelphia International Airport Saturday morning even though they had required legal documents and approved green cards and visas.

Plane passengers were turned away in Dubai and Istanbul, including at least one family who got ejected from a flight.

The fallout from Trump's immigration crackdown grew on Saturday.

The visa ban sparked fear for some refugees who were already on their way to the US when the order came into effect and were detained on arrival.

Twelve refugees were held in New York City's JFK on Friday night. Cabs at the airport went on strike for an hour from 6 pm to 7 pm to protest against the ban.

Travelers reported that police stopped allowing people without plane tickets onto the Air Train, which goes to the airport terminals, during the evening.

Governor Andrew Cuomo, however, ordered authorities to let protesters onto the Air Train, saying in a statement relayed by ABC that 'one of the fundamental rights that is granted to the people of this country is the right to peacefully protest'.

Protesters also demonstrated at Dallas Forth Worth Airport Saturday afternoon as the immigration ban created chaos

'He will not divide us': One demonstrator made a plea for unity at Dallas Fort Worth Airport while protesting with his brother

One demonstrator at LAX re-purposed Hillary Clinton's supporters' motto, this time applying it to the Statue Of Liberty

People held signs with the names of people detained and denied entry at Los Angeles International Airport on Saturday

Sarah Saedian is pictured speaking with an attorney about her Iranian relatives as lawyers work to help family members of passengers affected by the travel ban at Los Angeles International Airport

Homa Homaei, a US Citizen from Iran, is pictured receiving a hug from a lawyer working to help her Iranian family members effected by the travel ban at Los Angeles International Airport

Volunteer lawyers are pictured working pro-bono Saturday in New York preparing petitions for detainees at JFK

Hameed Khalid Darweesh, one of the Iraqi refugees, was detained for 14 hours in New York and released on Saturday afternoon. The second detainee, Haider Sameer Abdulkhaleq Alshawi, was released around 7 pm on Saturday after 24 hours.

Darweesh, 53, had arrived in America on a flight from Istanbul on Friday night, just hours after Trump implemented the immigration ban.

He had worked for the US government in Iraq for 10 years as a translator, engineer and contractor and had a valid special immigration visa to relocate to America.

Alshawi, 33 - who was approved for a visa on January 11 - was flying to America to join his wife and son in Texas. 'I'm sleepy and tired and exhausted,' he told the New York Post after being released Saturday.

Darweesh pumped his fist in the air outside the airport following his release, as a crowd of supporters cheered him on.

'First of all I want to thank the people that take care of me and support me. This is the humility, this is the soul of America,' he told a crowd gathered outside the airport.

'This is what pushed me to move - leave my country and come here. America is the land of freedom America is the greatest nation, the greatest people in the world.'

Asked what he thought of Trump he said: 'I don't know. He's a president, I'm a normal person.'

He was travelling with his wife and three children at the time but they were not detained. They were heading to Charlotte, North Carolina to start their new life in America.

Protesters assemble at JFK airport on Saturday to protest Trump's arriving refugee ban

Protesters gathered outside New York JFK's airport on Saturday after 12 refugees were detained trying to enter the United States under Trump's immigration ban

Lawyers for Darweesh and another Iraqi Haider Sameer Abdulkhaleq Alshawi, who is still detained at JFK, filed a lawsuit on Saturday morning in a bid to have them released.

The two men were on separate flights when immigration officials stopped them on Friday night and took their passports when they landed in New York.

WHO EXACTLY IS BANNED FROM THE U.S? Any non-U.S. citizen from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia or Yemen is now barred from entering the United States. That covers legal permanent residents - green card holders - and visa-holders from those seven countries who were out of the United States after Friday, when President Donald Trump signed an executive order with the temporary ban. They cannot return to the U.S. for 90 days. There's an exemption for immigrants and legal permanent residents whose entry is in the U.S. national interest, but it's unclear how that exemption will be applied. Visa and green card holders already in the U.S. will be allowed to stay. Customs and Border Protection is notifying airlines about passengers whose visas have been canceled or legal residents scheduled to fly back to the U.S. Airlines are being told to keep them off those flights. Source: Associated Press Advertisement

Ten other refugees were still being held at JFK airport.

Republican lawmakers have spoken out against Trump's immigration ban. Senator Chris Murphy tweeted: 'To my colleagues: don't ever again lecture me on American moral leadership if you chose to be silent today.' He later called the emergency stay a temporary victory.

Representative Charlie Dent also spoke out against Trump's order.

'This is ridiculous,' he told the Washington Post. 'I guess I understand what his intention is, but unfortunately the order appears to have been rushed through without full consideration. You know, there are many, many nuances of immigration policy that can be life or death for many innocent, vulnerable people around the world.'

Representative Justin Amash questioned whether the measure was legal.

'It's not lawful to ban immigrants on basis of nationality,' he tweeted. 'If the president wants to change immigration law, he must work with Congress.'

Senator Ben Sasse said that Trump was right to focus on border control, but said the president's order was is 'too broad'.

'If we send a signal to the Middle East that the US sees all Muslims as jihadis, the terrorist recruiters win by telling kids that America is banning Muslims and that this is America versus one religion,' he said. 'Our generational fight against jihadism requires wisdom.'

Earlier on Saturday, Cairo airport officials said seven US-bound migrants - six from Iraq and one from Yemen - were prevented from boarding an EgyptAir flight to New York's JFK airport.

The officials said the seven migrants, escorted by officials from the UN refugee agency, were stopped from boarding the plane on Saturday after authorities at Cairo airport contacted their counterparts in JFK airport.

The action at Cairo airport was the first there since Trump imposed the three-month ban on refugees.

Dutch airline KLM says it had to turn away seven would-be passengers because they would no longer have been accepted into the United States.

'We would love to bring them there. That's not the problem. It's just that this is what the U.S. sprang on the rest of the world - that these people are no longer welcome,' Manel Vrijenhoek, at KLM's press office, said.

She said the seven, who were from the seven blacklisted countries, were due to fly with KLM from different airports around the world.

In Tehran, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Iran would stop issuing new visas to US citizens in response to Trump's ban, but that anyone already with a visa to Iran wouldn't be turned away.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau took to Twitter Saturday afternoon to say that refugees were welcome in Canada, 'regardless of your faith'.

The Arab-American Anti-Discrimination Committee said there was chaos at airports and in the air following Trump's ban with the organization already receiving calls for help from green card and other visa holders after being refused admission.

'Visas being denied immediately. Chaos at airports and in the air. #MuslimBan will apply to green card holders attempting to return tonight,' the ADC's Abed Ayoub tweeted on Friday night.

Trump's ban puts a 90-day pause on visas and immigration from seven countries including Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Iran, Libya, Yemen and Somalia.

The order also puts a 120-day ban on all refugee entries into the country and declares that refugees from Syria are not welcome until further notice.

After that period of time, refugees will be accepted only from countries that the State and Homeland Security Departments decide are safe to work with.

Hameed Khalid Darweesh, who had worked as a interpreter with the U.S. Army in Iraq, was released from detention on Saturday. He was detained after flying into New York on Friday night

Iran's foreign ministry suggested the country would limit issuing visas to American tourists in retaliation for Trump's suspension of immigration and visas.

WHAT IS TRUMP'S IMMIGRATION ORDER SUPPOSED TO DO? Ban refugee entries from all countries for 120 days. Refugees can be accepted on case-by-case basis, including if they are a religious minority facing religious persecution Block refugee entries from Syria indefinitely. Cap refugee intake at 50,000 per year. Ban visa and immigration entries for 90 days from Muslim-majority countries on banned list, including Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Iran, Libya, Yemen and Somalia. Suspend visa issuance to countries of particular concern. Advertisement

The official IRNA news agency carried a statement by the Iranian foreign ministry on Saturday that said Iran will resort to 'counteraction' to Trump's executive order.

'Iran, to defend the dignity of the great Iranian nation, will implement the principle of reciprocity until the removal of the insulting restriction against Iranian nationals,' the statement read.

'It will apply corresponding legal, consular and political actions.'

The two countries have had no diplomatic relations since 1979 when militants stormed the U.S. embassy.

Google urged its staff travelling overseas on Friday to immediately return to the U.S. if they would be affected by the order.

CEO Sundar Pichai issued a memo slamming Trump's order saying 100 employees were affected, Bloomberg reports.

The tech company feared its employees, even though they have valid visas, would be stopped from returning to the country.

Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg hit out at Trump condemning his anti-immigration bans.

'The United States is a nation of immigrants, and we should be proud of that,' Zuckerberg said.

Emotional: Muslim travelers were nervous as they arrived in JFK today as chaos was apparent over the enforcement of Trump's immigration executive order

Permitted: Tourists were permitted from Dubai which is not a country on Trump's anti-terror list

It follows reports that Muslim-majority countries with ties to Trump's business empire have been excluded from the order

Google CEO Sundar Pichai urged its staff travelling overseas on Friday to immediately return to the US if they would be affected. Mark Zuckerberg also penned a post opposing the ban

It follows reports that Muslim-majority countries with ties to Trump's business empire have been excluded from the order, Bloomberg reports.

Statistics show Trump doesn't have any business relations with the seven black-listed countries, but does with Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Turkey.

Trump's order declares that US policy is 'to protect its citizens from foreign nationals who intend to commit terrorist attacks in the United States; and to prevent the admission of foreign nationals who intend to exploit United States immigration laws for malevolent purposes.'

It also gives Homeland Security 60 days to begin providing the president with the names of other countries to add to the list.

The nation will limit the total refugee resettlement numbers to 50,000 per year, according to the order.

Trump's executive order declares that the U.S. will 'prioritize refugee claims made by individuals on the basis of religious-based persecution.' But that only applies when 'the religion of the individual is a minority religion in the individual's country of nationality.'

Award-winning Iranian director Asghar Farhadi, who is nominated for an Oscar for his film The Salesman, won't be able to attend after Donald Trump introduced tough new immigration bans

Trita Parsi, president of the National Iranian American Council, tweeted on Saturday morning that Farhadi would be banned

The Iranian star of Oscar-nominated film The Salesman, Taraneh Alidoosti, has already said she is boycotting the Oscars in protest at President Donald Trump's 'racist' ban on Muslim immigrants

Also affected by the order is an Oscar-nominated Iranian director, who won't be able to attend the Hollywood award ceremony due to the new immigration bans.

Asghar Farhadi is nominated in the best foreign film category for his movie The Salesman but there are fears he may now not be able to attend next month's Academy Awards.

His native Iran, which is where The Salesman was filmed, is one of seven countries listed in Trump's executive order that has placed a 90-day pause on visas and immigration to the US.

Trita Parsi, president of the National Iranian American Council, tweeted on Saturday morning that Farhadi would be banned from attending the Oscars in what has become yet another fallout from Trump's immigration bans.

'Iran's Asghar Farhadi won't be let into the US to attend Oscar's. He's nominated for best foreign language film... #MuslimBan,' he wrote.

An Iranian-born actress who stars in Farhadi's The Salesman vowed to boycott the Oscars over Trump's immigration bans.

Taraneh Alidoosti, the 33-year-old known as the Natalie Portman of Iran, took to Twitter with a message for fans on Thursday.

'Trump's visa ban for Iranians is racist. Whether this will include a cultural event or not, I won't attend the #AcademyAwards 2017 in protest,' she tweeted.

Farhadi won an Oscar in 2012 for his film A Separation. The Academy of Motion Pictures, Arts and Sciences has backed the director.

'The Academy celebrates achievement in the art of filmmaking, which seeks to transcend borders and speak to audiences around the world, regardless of national, ethnic, or religious differences,' it told EW in a statement.

'As supporters of filmmakersand the human rights of all peoplearound the globe, we find it extremely troubling that Asghar Farhadi, the director of the Oscar-winning film from Iran A Separation, along with the cast and crew of this year's Oscar-nominated film The Salesman, could be barred from entering the country because of their religion or country of origin.'
As Theresa Mays motorcade swung through the White House gates on Friday morning, the low Washington winter sun briefly picked out her expression through the window of her official car: tense and lost in thought.

Hours later, she boarded her private Prime Ministerial plane at Andrews Air Force base in triumph  exuding a new confidence after her double-act with Donald Trump catapulted her into the front rank of world leaders.

It is the most dramatic step change so far in Mrs Mays journey from vicars daughter to the global power broker and cover girl for US Vogue.

Theresa May has gone from vicars daughter to the global power broker and cover girl for US Vogue

The Prime Minister was an imposing figure in the Oval Office last week during a joint press conference with president Donald Trump

It is difficult to credit that the imposing figure standing in the Oval Office last week is the same woman I interviewed for a newspaper article a decade and a half ago.

Then the Tories education spokeswoman, Mrs May was hesitant and nervous when asked about even humdrum details of schools policy.

Even after David Cameron appointed her to the Cabinet after the 2010 Election, there was little sign she possessed the charisma for the top job.

Social events with the Home Secretary could be a trial. While Mrs May was always friendly and polite, she had an aversion to gossip  and jokes.

Long silences would be broken only by the sound of clashing cutlery.

For Cameron and his team, she was the submarine who proved infuriatingly hard to engage with.

But last weeks US trip  starting with the Philadelphia speech in which she invoked the special relationship of Thatcher and Reagan and repudiated the interventionist wars of David Cameron and Tony Blair  has moved her up a gear.

She even has the status symbol to go with it.

Mr Camerons resignation last summer means that she has inherited the new, specially equipped plane  originally dubbed Cam Force One  which he commissioned to be placed at the personal disposal of the PM.

He had the chance to fly in the 10 million Voyager only once, before he handed over the keys to Mrs May.

When she landed in America on Thursday, the plane  now affectionately known as Theresa Air  taxied up the runway and parked next to the US Presidents Air Force One, besides which it looked a symbolically scaled-down version but still impressive.

Mrs May used her first-class cabin at the front of the plane to work on the Philadelphia speech, discussing key lines with her senior team, Fiona Hill and Nick Timothy, as RAF officers served their drinks.

President Donald Trump joked 'there goes that relationship' to Theresa May after he was challenged by the BBC's political editor at the press conference

She was happy to break off to walk down to the back of the plane to talk to the Press, joking with us  unscripted  that she expected to click with the controversial and exuberant new President because opposites attract.

Central to Mrs Mays success is keeping the same tight-knit team of loyalists around her. Joint chiefs of staff Ms Hill and Mr Timothy have guarded her fiercely since her early days at the Home Office.

It is a marked turnaround from the disarray which followed Mr Trumps election victory in November, when Downing Street and the Foreign Office, which had planned for a Hillary Clinton victory, seemed hopelessly wrong-footed.

When Ukips Nigel Farage exploited the disarray, swooping in to meet the President-Elect at Trump Tower, Mrs Mays team were stung into action.

Ms Hill and Mr Timothy, who had been disparaging and dismissive about Trump during his campaign, travelled to Washington before Christmas to pave the way for the historic summit.

President Trump and Mrs May have been described as leaders who probably feel instinctively that each relies on the success of the other

But as the furore over Mr Trumps crackdown on Muslim refugees yesterday erupted, Mrs May will know there could be a price  as well as a reward  for reaching out so rapidly and so warmly to the new President.

And even friendly Tories seem to think that flattering comparisons of the new Trump / May relationship to the famous Ronald Reagan / Margaret Thatcher 1980s double-act are overdone.

Writing last week, Tory MP Kwasi Kwarteng said Reagan and Thatcher were united by a common purpose.

They were both unashamedly ideological. They both promoted free trade and capitalism, and stood belligerently against communism and the power of the Soviet Union.

In contrast, he described President Trump and Mrs May as leaders who probably feel instinctively that each relies on the success of the other. They are like shipwreck survivors on a raft, relying on each other while they navigate turbulent waters.

Central to Mrs Mays success is keeping the same tight-knit team of loyalists around her

But as Mays plane lifted off from Andrews Air Base, a political lifeboat seemed the last thing on her mind.

While still some way short of matching the insouciant command of Mr Cameron, she already looks more at ease than Gordon Brown  who would fly into rages with his advisers over the tone of newspaper coverage.

As the Prime Minister returned to London last night, there were no rages: just quiet satisfaction.

The submarine has surfaced.
A neo-Nazi with a huge collection of homemade guns had reportedly planned to commit a mass shooting at a popular Westfield shopping centre and told his school counsellor that Adolf Hitler was 'the greatest person to live'.

Michael Holt, 26, was arrested in 2015 after police received a tip-off and found a stash of guns hidden across three properties he stayed at in Sydney's far north-west.

The unemployed white supremacist once told a friend that he dreamed of walking through a school shooting students and teachers, an agreed statement of facts tendered in Penrith Local Court said.

'Reapers disciples': Michael Holt (pictured) pleaded guilty to a number of gun charges. The court heard that he had spoken about committing a mass shooting at a shopping centre

Holt was arrested in 2015 after police received a tip-off and found a stash of guns (pictured) hidden across three properties he stayed at in Sydney's far north-west

Holt recently pleaded guilty to a number of firearm manufacture and possession charges and will be sentenced in March, the Sydney Morning Herald reported.

'The offender is not discrete with his opinions and is extremely outspoken ... with regards to his views on gun crime, gun laws and violence,' the agreed statement of facts said.

'Of particular concern, it was reported that the offender often talked about loading weapons into his vehicle and driving to a very public place where he would 'just start shooting it up' most recently saying he wanted to do this to Westfields at Tuggerah.'

One of Holt's social media accounts features the tagline 'anti-system, anti-religion, anti-politics, pro-gun' and proclaims that 'Ausfalia can go to Hell'.

Holt recently pleaded guilty to a number of firearm manufacture and possession charges and will be sentenced in March
NASA researchers have revealed the results of a major new study into the effect of radiation on high altitude travellers.

Cosmic rays from the sun and space crash into molecules in the atmosphere, causing particle decay and radiation which can be harmful to our health.

The new study, using weather balloons, and published in the Space Weather Journal, took some of the first radiation measurements of their kind at altitudes from 26,000 to over 120,000 feet above Earth.

While we're mostly safe from this radiation on the ground, pilots and aircrew are more exposed to the dangerous radiation, as are astronauts.

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The results, published in the Space Weather Journal, took some of the first radiation measurements of their kind at altitudes from 26,000 to over 120,000 feet above Earth. Radiation dose rates, seen in this NAIRAS model, increase with altitude and latitude and can vary from hour to hour. Rates for Nov. 14, 2012, 20:00-21:00 GMT are shown above. Warmer colors indicate higher amounts of radiation.

WHAT ARE THE RISKS? The World Health Organization (WHO) International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) says that ionizing radiation causes cancer in humans. Ionizing radiation is also known to cause reproductive problems. The CDC says it is currently 'looking more specifically at whether cosmic ionizing radiation is linked to cancer and reproductive problems.' It warns 'We dont know what causes most health problems that could be linked to radiation, including forms of cancer and reproductive health issues like miscarriage and birth defects. 'If you are exposed to cosmic ionizing radiation and have these health problems, we cant tell if it was caused by your work conditions or something else. ' Advertisement

To conduct the study, called 'NASA's Radiation Dosimetry Experiment,' or RaD-X, the researchers launched a huge helium-filled balloon into the stratosphere from near Fort Sumner, New Mexico in 2015.

The balloon contained instruments to measure cosmic radiation from the sun and interstellar space.

The results, published in the Space Weather Journal, took some of the first radiation measurements of their kind at altitudes from 26,000 to over 120,000 feet above Earth.

They found a steady increase in the rate of radiation higher in the atmosphere.

Earth's magnetopshere acts as a magnetic shield and blocks most of the radiation from reaching the planet.

But particles with enough energy can penetrate the magnetosphere and the atmosphere.

They collide with molecules of nitrogen and oxygen, which cause the radiation particles to into different particles through processes called nucleonic and electromagnetic cascades.

Dr Chris Mertens, the lead investigator of the RaD-X mission at NASAs Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia, said: 'The measurements, for the first time, were taken at seven different altitudes, where the physics of dosimetry is very different

Radiation in the atmosphere can be measured in two ways - either by how much there is or how much it can harm biological tissue.

Measuring harm to biological tissue, called 'dose equivalent', is the standard way to measure health risks, and is a lot easier to measure than quantity of radiation.

This is because measuring quantity of radiation requires knowing the type and energy of the particle - not just how many there are.

WHAT ARE COSMIC RAYS? A long-standing puzzle in astrophysics is the source of ultra-high-energy particles from space that hit Earth. Called cosmic rays, they're up to a billion times more energetic than particles at Cern's Large Hadron Collider. They strike the atmosphere and cause an enormous shower of other particles, mostly muons, electrons and photons, over a wide area. Travelers flying polar routes to Asia or Europe can receive radiation doses that are up to three-times higher than near the equator. Though they were discovered decades ago, cosmic rays at these high energies are very rare, making it difficult to pinpoint where in the universe they originated. It's thought that some come from supernovae, but it's likely there are other sources of cosmic rays in the universe as well. Advertisement

Both the primary high energy particles and the secondary decay particles they become can have negative health effects on humans.

This is because cosmic radiation breaks down DNA and produces free radicals, which can alter cell functions.

Dr Chris Mertens, the lead investigator of the RaD-X mission at NASAs Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia, said: 'The measurements, for the first time, were taken at seven different altitudes, where the physics of dosimetry is very different.

'By having the measurements at these seven altitudes were really able to test how well our models capture the physics of cosmic radiation.'

The RaD-X payload (pictured) ascended into the stratosphere to measure cosmic radiation coming from the sun and interstellar space

The researchers measured the dose equivalent rate of radiation over a range of altitudes, finding a steady increase in the rate higher in the atmosphere.

The primary cosmic ray particles higher up are more damaging to humans than the secondary particles.

The research has important implications for aircrew in the aviation industry, as they're exposed to nearly double the radiation levels of people on the ground.

THE EFFECTS OF RADIATION For the most part, the Earth's magnetic field provides shielding for humans on Earth, and even spacecraft, from cosmic radiation. But recent research has shown astronauts on deep space missions could suffer from dementia and permanent memory loss as cosmic rays bombard and damage their brains. Scientists have dubbed this 'space brain' and say it may leave astronauts anxious, depressed, paranoid and more likely to make flawed decisions. A study by University of California, Irvine l ooked at exposure to highly energetic charged particles in rodents. This resulted in cognitive impairments and dementia. A severe solar storm in 2003 caused a temporary spike in radiation levels near the poles, where protection by Earth's magnetic field is decreased. In an extensive audit, Nasa's inspector general office looked at the space agency's overall effort to keep astronauts safe during lengthy space missions - especially trips to Mars, currently targeted for the 2030s. Among the top health hazards for three-year, round-trip Mars missions: space radiation that could cause cancer, central nervous system damage, cataracts or infertility; extreme isolation, which could lead to psychological problems; and prolonged weightlessness, already known to weaken bones, muscles and vision. But the cosmic rays that could damage us might be the source of life for completely different kinds of organisms. Advertisement

It's also a concern for crew aboard the International Space Station and future astronauts journeying to Mars, which has a radiation environment similar to Earths upper atmosphere.

The researchers said that learning how to protect humans from radiation exposure is a key step in future space exploration.

The results from the RaD-X study will also be used to improve space weather models including NAIRAS, which predicts radiation events.

These prediction are used by pilots to monitor radiation levels and to know when and where levels are unsafe so they can adjust their routes.

The researchers launched a huge helium-filled balloon containing instruments to measure cosmic radiation into the stratosphere from near Fort Sumner, New Mexico in 2015

While balloon flights like RaD-X are essential for modelling the radiation environment, they don't provide real-time radiation monitoring which NAIRAS requires for forecasting.

NASAs Automated Radiation Measurements for Aerospace Safety program works in conjunction with RaD-X to develop and test instruments that can be flown aboard commercial aircraft for real-time monitoring at high altitudes.

An instrument called TEPC  short for tissue equivalent proportional counter  is the standard instrument for measuring cosmic radiation, but it's large, expensive and can't be built commercially, so it cant easily be distributed.

'We need small, compact, solid-state based instruments calibrated against the TEPC that can reliably measure the dose equivalents and can be integrated into aircraft cheaply and compactly,' Dr Mertens said.

The flight mission tested two new instruments  the RaySure detector and the Teledyne TID detector.

During the test, both instruments were found to be promising for real-time radiation monitoring.
It is the high-tech, secretive phone designed to repel attacks and even self destruct if compromised.

The Boeing Black phone was specifically built to handle Top Secret information and, it is claimed, has been given to Donald Trump.

However, confusion surrounds which handset the President is actually using.

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It's the high-tech, secretive phone given to the incoming president  but it seems President Donald Trump may still being using his unsecured Samsung Galaxy. The Boeing Black phone was specifically built to handle Top Secret information and self-destruct

BOEING BLACK PHONE The Boeing Black phone encrypts calls and is specifically designed for government agencies and others that need to keep communications and data secure. The dual-sim phone supports GSM, WCDMA and LTE for high speed data. It has a 4.3inch screen The handset also comes with USB , Wifi and Bluetooth. It will run a secure version of Google's Android software. And it will self-destruct if someone tampers with it in order to keep Top Secrete data from falling into the wrong hands. Advertisement

On November 1, Lynn and President Obama were the first two, maybe even the only two, who received a Black Boeing phone, claims Patrick Tucker with Defense One.

Tucker this week contacted the DISA asking if Obama's Boeing Black phone had been handed off to Trump.

But the official's only response was that the phone 'goes with the office of that position'.

Before taking the oath of office on January 20, President Donald Trump was at first believed to have handed over his personal Android phone.

The New York Times reported President Trump swapped his personal phone for a 'secure, encrypted device approved by the Secret Service with a new number that few people possess.'

But it seems the story has since changed.

Six days later, The New York Times published another article that included evidence that the President is still using his Samsung Galaxy.

'Mr. Trump's wife, Melania, went back to New York on Sunday night with their 10-year-old son, Barron, and so Mr. Trump has the television  and his old, unsecured Android phone, to the protests of some of his aides  to keep him company,' reported Maggie Haberman with The Times.

And many are wondering why the President is not using his phone fit for a spy.

The Boeing Black phone is a collaboration between Boeing and the Defense Information System Agency (DISA).

It encrypts calls and is specifically designed for government agencies and others that need to keep communications and data secure.

The phone uses dual SIM cards to enable it to access multiple cell networks and can be configured to connect with biometric sensors and satellites.

And the Department of Defense Information Networks head Lt. Gen. Alan Lynn confirmed the Boeing Black works with 'a large amount of encryption.'

Many Android users know that their smartphones can be hacked at any moment, which makes many security experts worry about Trumps decision to keep his phone close.

The New York Times published an article stating: 'Mr. Trump's wife, Melania, went back to New York on Sunday night with their 10-year-old son, Barron, and so Mr. Trump has the television  and his old, unsecured Android phone, to the protests of some of his aides  to keep him company (Pictured is Trump campaigning in 2016)

'This is a consumer device, and it's going to have security vulnerabilities,' Bruce Schneier, an internationally renowned security technologist, shared in a blog post.

'He's at risk from everybody, ranging from lone hackers to the better-funded intelligence agencies of the world. And while the risk of a forged e-mail is real  it could easily move the stock market  the bigger risk is eavesdropping.

'That Android has a microphone, which means that it can be turned into a room bug without anyone's knowledge. That's my real fear.'

However, experts like Schneier might be able to sleep better at night knowing Trump was just using the Boeing Black phone.

The system works by using the handset to access a remote server on the military's Top Secret JWICS network.

The phone itself just send keyboard, mouse and other signals to the 'real' server.

said Lynn: 'We're not too worried about losing data,' at least not off the phone,' aid Lynn.

He also admitted he thought his boss liked that handset.

On November 1, Lynn and President Obama were the first two, maybe even the only two, who received a Black Boeing phone, reports Patrick Tucker with Defense One . Tucker contacted the DISA asking if Obama's Boeing Black phone had been handed off to Trump. But the official's only response was that the phone 'goes with the office of that position'

'I think he does,' he told Defense One in a November interview.

'Haven't heard any complaints.'

'The phone will be sold primarily to government agencies and companies engaged in contractual activities with those agencies that are related to defense and homeland security,' Boeing says.

It plans to limit the sale of the device to 'approved' buyers.

'The device will be marketed and sold in a manner such that low level technical and operational information about the product will not be provided to the general public.'

Even if approved, buyers will have to sign an agreement agreeing to keep their details of the phone secret.

WHAT COULD BE IN THE PHONE A researcher from the University of Maryland revealed other features and technology that could be included in President Donald Trump's official phone. One level of protection is what is called 'security by obscurity.' Many people presumably had Trump's pre-presidential phone number. Now, relatively few people will have his new number. 'Trusted Platform Module' is included that notifies authorities if phone has been tampered with. The phone may only be able to connect with certain predetermined phone and data networks that are regularly screened against intrusions. Limiting its contact with the internet would be key. Trump's phone likely has some degree of customization such as a unique operating system. The apps allowed on the president's phone should be few and limited only to those verified in advance. Separately encrypting the memory spaces used by each app can boost security further. Perhaps the phone's microphone and camera could be shut off, and any active Twitter link disconnected, if the phone itself is in the Oval Office, and whenever the president is meeting with members of his national security team. Advertisement

'Specifically designates and protects as 'proprietary information' the components, hardware, Product Software, applications, functionalities, or internal structure or workings of the Product provided by Seller, including without limitation those that can be obtained by disassembling or opening the Product or its software or components.'

'There are no serviceable parts on Boeing's Black phone and any attempted servicing or replacing of parts would destroy the product.

'The Boeing Black phone is manufactured as a sealed device both with epoxy around the casing and with screws, the heads of which are covered with tamper proof covering to identify attempted disassembly.

'Any attempt to break open the casing of the device would trigger functions that would delete the data and software contained within the device and make the device inoperable.'

Blackberry confirmed the existence of the project in 2015- but refused to reveal any more information.

The FCC filing reveal very little about the phone - other than its shape and the fact it will take two sim cards. The system works by using the handset to access a remote server on the military's Top Secret JWICS network

'We're pleased to announce that Boeing is collaborating with BlackBerry to provide a secure mobile solution for Android devices utilizing our BES 12 platform,' BlackBerry's CEO John Chen said on a conference call held to discuss its quarterly results in 2015.

'That, by the way, is all they allow me to say.'

The Boeing Black device encrypts calls and is aimed at government agencies and others that need to keep communications and data secure.

It uses dual SIM cards to enable it to access multiple cell networks and can be configured to connect with biometric sensors and satellites.

Lynn confirmed the Boeing Black works with 'a large amount of encryption.'

However, he said it was its ability to keep data on servers rather than on the handset that made it attractive.

'There's nothing that lives on the devices,' he explained.

The system works by using the handset to access a remote server on the military's Top Secret JWICS network.

The phone itself just send keyboard, mouse and other signals to the 'real' server.

said Lynn: 'We're not too worried about losing data,' at least not off the phone,' aid Lynn.

He also admitted he thought his boss liked that handset.

'I think he does,' he told Defence One.

'Haven't heard any complaints.'

It also reveals that the handset will be completely sealed, and any attempt to open it will destroy the phone and delete all the data on it.

'There are no serviceable parts on Boeing's Black phone and any attempted servicing or replacing of parts would destroy the product.

'The Boeing Black phone is manufactured as a sealed device both with epoxy around the casing and with screws, the heads of which are covered with tamper proof covering to identify attempted disassembly.
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Frank's story

In a persistent, whining swarm, mosquitoes clustered around us, undeterred by our swipes as we slapped ineffectively at our arms and necks.

Four days after arriving in Papua New Guinea, the worlds largest tropical island, we were deep in the swamps, on our way to meet a tribe known as the Crocodile People.

The muggy heat was intense. There was not a breath of wind to cool our faces, no respite from the open-air sauna that is the Sepik River valley.

Reporter Frank Gardner, centre, fulfilled a lifelong dream when he and explorer Benedict Allen, pictured behind him, voyaged to Papua New Guinea to reside with members of the Kandengi village

So why travel 9,000 miles just to get attacked by a bunch of bloodthirsty mosquitoes? There was method to our madness.

I had always yearned to see birds of paradise in the wild. After I got shot by terrorists in Saudi Arabia 13 years ago (the injuries left my legs largely paralysed), I lay on my hospital bed thinking: Damn, why didnt I go to Papua New Guinea when I could have? Now Ive left it too late.

But then a chance encounter with explorer Benedict Allen made me realise it wasnt too late. Undaunted by my wheelchair, Benedict offered to take me to a country where he had spent months living among a remote tribe in the 1980s.

Not one to do things by halves, he had volunteered back then for their gruelling scarring and beating fest, a rite of passage for boys becoming men.

The BBC was intrigued by the prospect that our impossible jungle quest might make good TV.

And so, as we emerged from the swamps, another sound replaced the whine of mosquitoes: drums. Word had reached the Crocodile People that Benedict, their long-lost son, was coming home. Two large wooden dugout canoes came from the village to meet us.

According to Frank, the Papuans were good-natured, taking care and patience not to drop him on the steep, muddy trails they carried him over, pictured

Faces were daubed in a ghostly grey paint made of clay; many wore sharply curved boars tusks in their hair and the mens black headdresses were piled high with feathers plucked from the cassowary bird. They were chanting, swaying their half-naked bodies from side to side and stamping their feet in the shifting canoes.

Benedict did not look happy. This was the beating song, a terrifying throwback to a time of pain he had put himself through. The drums were opening up old wounds.

We slept in palm-thatch huts, alert to the constant scuttling of animals above our heads. Once, Simon the cameraman awoke in the middle of the night and hissed: P*** off! A rat had just fallen from the roof on to his face.

The food was dire: cold, congealed sago, which had all the appeal of damp wallpaper, and Spam. Yes, Spam.

We slept in palm-thatch huts, alert to the constant scuttling of animals above our heads

Then Benedict tried to get me interested in a pile of live sago grubs he had foraged: great fat, squirming maggots with puss-filled heads. Even though I managed to resist, both Benedict and I still went down with food poisoning for a day.

And yet, despite all the hardships, it was worth it. The Papuans were good-natured, taking care and patience not to drop me on the steep, muddy trails they carried me over.

The scenery was spectacular: there were mud-filled ravines and towering fruit trees, and one night we camped out at over 10,000ft in the highlands inside a grass hut, our breath frosting in the chill air as we roasted sweet potatoes in the embers of a fire.

But did we see the birds of paradise? Ah well, that would be telling

Benedict's story

During the 1980s, Benedict spent months living in the Kandengei village, left, where he underwent a brutal initiation ceremony. This time, he was back to search for the illusive bird of paradise, right

I remember the moment clearly. Six years ago, Frank said the one thing he regretted was that hed never get to New Guineas highlands to see birds of paradise.

Oh, I can easily fix that! I said, without thinking.

I hadnt been to Papua New Guinea for three decades. I knew nothing much about Frank, let alone his birds, except they had magnificent feathers and that Id eaten three.

I could only hope some old mates would lend a hand  and my mind turned to Kandengei village. It was there, aged 24, that Id gone through a brutal initiation ceremony: that must count for something. The Kandengeis might help us out.

The idea of turning this into a documentary sounded flimsy but to my surprise the BBC said yes and it was then I learnt the extent of Franks injuries. If he were dropped even once it would be game over, as our beefy expedition medic said.

This quest had started as a remark between two blokes at a bar, and now whole communities were involved

Thankfully, the Kandengeis remembered me.

Indeed, two canoe-loads of dancers came to greet me. It was an extraordinary scene.

These images will stay with me for ever, said Frank.

Same here, I muttered, as unfortunate memories resurfaced.

The initiation had been designed to make me a man as strong as a crocodile. I was thrashed every day for six weeks.

Only once Id caught sight of the familiar faces, the thatched houses and excited children, did I began to appreciate the welcome. It was as if the Kandengeis had been waiting all this time  and indeed, they have no word for goodbye. No one ever leaves.

Days later, we were being escorted through the jungle.

By night Frank was racked by pain but there was a sense of mounting excitement too. This quest had started as a remark between two blokes at a bar, and now whole communities were involved, handling my companion, poised magnificently in a glorious sedan chair.

Did we find the birds? Im sworn to secrecy. But the journey was never entirely about them. It was about the highs and lows of a joint quest in a most spectacular land.

Birds Of Paradise: The Ultimate Quest will be screened on BBC2 on February 3 and 10 at 9pm
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After another amazing series of Strictly Come Dancing, followed by a month of travelling around the UK on the shows live tour with my husband and fellow dancer Kevin, we finally had the chance to get away.

The Maldives is where we go to revitalise ourselves and this time we stayed at the Sun Siyam Iru Fushi. The 52-acre resort is set in the heart of the Noonu Atoll, a 45-minute seaplane ride from Male international airport.

After a long journey it was great to arrive at our over-water villa. It had everything, from an infinity pool to an outdoor private shower. There were also glass sections of the floor so we could see fish swimming underneath.

Karen and her husband Kevin enjoyed their much-needed break in the Maldives, pictured, following another season of Strictly Come Dancing

On the shore, palm trees danced in the breeze and the ocean shimmered as if covered in diamonds.

On our first morning we jumped out of bed and ran to the beach. The sun kissed our skin and the sand gently massaged our feet. We just stood there, grinning from cheek to cheek.

After taking in our beautiful surroundings, we headed to The Spa by Thalgo. I love spas but nothing prepared me for this  every kind of treatment was on offer.

The aromas of iris and jasmine filled the room and calmed our hectic souls as we had the Iru Power Pack Deep Massage.

My masseuse had a small frame and was very delicate-looking but once she began the massage she was like a ninja. She moved stealthily from one area of my body to another, and her strength was mind-blowing. When she finished I felt as if I was born again, ready to take on the world  after a cup of green tea, of course.

As we laid there getting pampered, I looked across to Kevin and we had the same look of happiness in our eyes.

They stayed at the Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, pictured, in an over-water villa which boasted everything from an infinity pool to an outdoor private shower

Kevin doesnt usually have a massage but even he enjoyed this one and he looked stress-free for the first time in several months.

One day we had a great Maldivian cooking class by the beach at the Islanders grill restaurant. We prepared tuna bajias, Maldivian chicken curry and kiru boakiba (a creamy coconut custard). Even Kevin joined in and made a couple of samosas.

Unfortunately, thats probably the only time Ill ever see him in a kitchen.

There were many incredible restaurants at the resort. We ate at a different spot every night  Indian, Italian, French, Thai, Japanese and Maldivian cuisines. There was also a buffet where there was everything and anything you could wish for. And I mean everything.

Our favourite place was Flavours, which serves Asian fusion. The Maldivian seafood cocktail, marinated lamb chops, and Maldivian white snapper were all delicious.

Karen, seen relaxing in the pool, had a deeply luxurious massage and took part in yoga classes and daily walks on the beach

Since we ate so much and needed to work off some of those calories, we tried some activities around the island.

Every morning we would wake up around 8.30am and go for a 40-minute walk, then do some of our favourite exercises on the beach while having a good natter and taking in some early-morning sun.

Kevin went scuba diving for the first time. It was tough for him at first to get used to the breathing technique but he saw some beautiful fish and turtles in the crystal-clear waters.

He also paddled his way around the island on a surfboard. We went fishing too. Kevin mentioned that his great-grandfather Jack had been a fisherman in Grimsby and thats when I saw the transformation. Suddenly, Kevin turned into a rugged hero as he battled to land a huge fish.

But the best thing we did was a dolphin cruise. It was so much fun to see them swimming alongside our boat and splashing around us. On our way back to the resort we enjoyed a lovely glass of champagne while watching the sunset. It was one of the most romantic moments ever.

Karen was a big fan of the flying fruit bats, left, that popped up around the resort, while Kevin went scuba diving for the first time and witnessed sea turtles, right (stock images)

I had some yoga lessons and it was refreshing to breathe in and listen to the waves as I saluted the sun in my warrior pose. I loved every second of it and felt at one with nature.

Indeed, the resort was great for nature  one of my favourites things was spotting flying foxes. Theyre fruit bats that look like teddy bears with really big wings.

I was transfixed and somewhat obsessed at finding them hanging upside down while munching on a piece of fruit. The bats help to create more fruit by dispersing the seeds. When they fly around they spit the seeds out all over the place  fortunately none landed on me.

Actually I think I scared the bats a bit because I loved them so much

Actually I think I scared the bats a bit because I loved them so much. They certainly gave me some odd looks.

The holiday gave Kevin and I the chance to reconnect with one another. The tranquillity, peacefulness and privacy we enjoyed was exactly what couples need once in a while.

The gentle breeze and the sun recharged our batteries, and the bats kept me entertained for hours on end. Thats what I call a perfect break.
The Voice judges appear to be put through their paces once again on Saturday night's show as they prepare to add to their ever growing teams.

Will.i.am, Jennifer Hudson, Tom Jones and Gavin Rossdale are vying it out to find the next big singing star on the ITV competition and they'll be faced with an assortment of performances from across the musical spectrum this week.

While Bristol's own Tanya Lacey, 31, attempts to wow the foursome with her vocal talents to All The Man That I Need by the late Whitney Houston.

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Singing her heart out: While Bristol's own Tanya Lacey, 31, attempts to wow the foursome with her vocal talents to All The Man That I Need by the late Whitney Houston

Wanting to impress the mentors, 20-year-old Clara Hurtado hopes to get the red chairs turning with her interpretation of Disclosure and Sam Smith's hit Latch.

Another hopeful trying to hit the right note includes Liza Baker, 44, from South Wales, who will sing epic eighties power balled Alone by Heart.

Others trying to sway the musical mentors include Essex's Jack Bruley, 20, singing Tennessee Whiskey, while Hadleigh Ford, 28, will perform David Gray's This Year's Love and 28-year-old Rhyann Thomas from Birmingham will take to the stage to sing I Swear by All-For-One.

Deep in thought: Will.i.am looked uncertain whether or not Tanya was for him

One step closer: 20-year-old Clara Hurtado hopes to get the red chairs turning with her rendition of Disclosure and Sam Smith's hit Latch

The Voice is competing with BBC One's Let It Shine in the weekend ratings war.

Both shows have received a mixed response from viewers since launching on January 7.

One viewer found the decision to pick between them a difficult one, taking to Twitter to announce: 'I'm torn between The Voice and Let It Shine! Bad scheduling!'

Others weren't beating around the bush with their opinions on each series: 'The Voice is so much better than Let It Shine!'

Feeling it: Jennifer looked deep in thought as she listened to a contestant's performance

'Had to switch over from Let It Shine to The Voice. I couldn't think straight listening to pubescent boys who can't sing!' seethed another viewer, clearly not impressed with the BBC's boy band themed show.

Up until last year, the BBC broadcast The Voice, with it moving over to ITV for 2017.

'Saw 5 mins of The Voice UK and it's way batter than it was on the BBC!' one viewer decided, adding: 'The less said about Let It Shine the better!'

Decision to make: Gavin Rossdale mulled over pressing his buzzer during Saturday's show

Another person remarked: 'Why are the BBC even bothering with Let It Shine. Sour grapes over losing The Voice of what?'

On the flip side, others were quick to tweet Gary Barlow and applaud his new talent series: 'Loving your new show Let It Shine, beats The Voice any day!'

'Enjoying #letitshine - not switching over to The Voice! Well done!' came another satisfied tweeter.
He's the hunky TV presenter and model who travels all over the world for work.

But Jason Dundas is back home and enjoying the sand and sunshine after touching down in Sydney from Los Angeles on Friday.

The 34-year-old is in town for a Calvin Klein swimwear photo shoot for department store David Jones.

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Back at the beach: Jason Dundas went shirtless to show his legions of Instagram followers a clip of the refurbished Bronte Beach pools in the eastern suburbs

Jason was seen shirtless in an Instagram clip of the refurbished Bronte Beach pools in the eastern suburbs.

The handsome Sydney-born creative captioned: 'A perfect afternoon at #BronteBeach #Australia @Australia.'

In the video, he walks around the edge of the beachside pool and marvels at the view and the remodeled pool.

Dapper TV presenter: He flew into Sydney from Los Angles for a David Jones shoot and headed to Bronte Beach afterwards

'Ok so, they just refurbed the pool here down in Bronte Beach. Isn't it the most beautiful thing you've ever seen in your life or what?' he tells his viewers,' the avid vlogger said.

'And it's five o'clock in Sydney and it's just perfection. It's probably about 28 degrees. Australians doing what they do best.'

'How are you? How good is this?' he flirtatiously says to a blonde female passerby.

She is heard replying: 'It's beautiful.'

It's just perfection: The avid vlogger showed off the pools, sun and surf to his followers

'How good is this?': Jason boasts that it's 28 degree day in Sydney and that the refurbished pool looked perfect

His post garnered plenty of likes and comments from his worldwide fan following.

A follower wrote: 'Back in the dreamland.'

While Frenchy Morgan, the ex-girlfriend of Gabi Grecko, commented on his post saying: 'Australia is dope.'

He recently spent Australia Day with other LA-based Aussies, who dubbed themselves the 'Gum Leaf Mafia', including husband and wife actors Daniel MacPherson and Zoe Ventoura, Renee Bargh, Corbin Harris and DJ Havana Brown.
She is Australia's hope of winning the Miss Universe title since Jennifer Hawkins took the crown in 2004.

But Caris Tiivel, who is currently in the Philippines for the annual pageant, took time out of her busy preparation schedule on Friday to wish her fans a 'Happy Australia Day' - while sporting skimpy attire.

The 23-year-old posted a video to her Instagram, in which she could be seen wearing a lacy pink nightgown that showed off a hint of thigh and a glimpse of cleavage.

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G'day mate: Australia's Miss Universe candidate Caris Tiivel donned a skimpy lace nightgown in an Instagram snap shared on Friday, while wishing her fans a 'Happy Australia Day'

In the video, the Perth-born beauty can be seen waving the national flag in one hand and while holding a green and gold kangaroo in the other.

'G'day mate, happy Australia day from the Philippines,' she said.

The brunette beauty wrote in her caption: 'HAPPY AUSTRALIA DAY! #MissUniverseAustralia #MissUniverse.'

Green and gold: The 23-year-old posted a video to her Instagram wearing what appears to be delicate pink lingerie

Model with a purpose: Caris Tiivel will use her platform to draw attention to issues like Australia's refugee crisis and advocating same-sex marriage, should she win Miss Universe pageant next week

Caris also shared a boomerang edited clip of herself planting a kiss on the kangaroo's cheek.

Her post received plenty of shares and comments followers from back home and all over the world.

One wrote: 'I wish you queen Caris a amazing and Happy Australia Day from Colombia.'

Passion for politics: Speaking about her passion for politics, the 23-year-old Perth resident told The Daily Telegraph this week that Australia should not close its doors to those 'who are less fortunate'

Another simply said: 'Aussie! Aussie! Aussie! Oi! Oi! Oi!'

The Perth-born model has been busy preparing and rehearsing for the pageant.

She has also been travelling around the Philippines with the other candidates visiting some of it's famous destinations and sharing posts from Cebu, Boracay and Baguio.

Making America great again? 'I think we are quite lucky to live our lives here in Australia, so I think we should do our best to help people who are less fortunate than us,' she said

Caris Tiivel will use her platform to draw attention to issues like Australia's refugee crisis and advocating same sex marriage, should she win the international competition.

Speaking about her passion for politics, the 23-year-old Perth resident told The Daily Telegraph this week that Australia should not close its doors to those 'who are less fortunate.'

However, in the same interview, she voiced her support for US president Donald Trump - whose conservative views on immigration in-part inspired last week's anti-Trump Women's Marches across the globe.

Backing trump: However, in the same interview, she voiced her support for US president Donald Trump - whose conservative views on immigration in-part inspired last week's anti-Trump Women's Marches across the globe

'I think we are quite lucky to live our lives here in Australia, so I think we should do our best to help people who are less fortunate than us,' she said.

'Everyone deserves a chance, [Trump] hasn't been given that chance yet.'

She added: 'Even though I know he has said some very controversial things, and he has upset a lot of people and he still is upsetting people, but at the same time we can't change it now, he is the President of the United States and we have to give him that chance. 'Hopefully he performs.'

'Everyone deserves a chance, [Trump] hasn't been given that chance yet'

Caris, who hopes to become the first Australian crowned Miss Universe since Jennifer Hawkins, shares similar political views with the model - who previously told The Sydney Morning Herald that she has 'a lot of respect' for Trump.

In addition to advocating for immigration and same sex marriage, Caris hopes to raise awareness about domestic violence.

Last year, the beauty opened up about her struggles with depression in a bid to shine light on mental health.

'I'm someone that has suffered from anxiety and depression in the past and a lot of people think you are always smiling, you are always happy all the time, there is nothing wrong with you,' she told the Herald Sun in September.

'But that's the stigma that comes with depression.'

Caris, who hopes to become the first Australian crowned Miss Universe since Jennifer Hawkins, shares similar political views with the model - who previously told The Sydney Morning Herald that she has 'a lot of respect' for Trump

Stunning: Caris is signed with Chadwick models and has appeared in campaigns for clothing store ae'lkemi, graced the cover of Women's Fitness magazine's August 2016 issue and posed for GQ

She said many people were not aware that someone might be suffering from a mental health issue.

She plans to show her support by providing assistance to other mental health patients.

Caris is signed with Chadwick models and has appeared in campaigns for clothing store ae'lkemi, graced the cover of Women's Fitness magazine's August 2016 issue and posed for GQ.
George Clooney and wife Amal touched down in LA on Friday for a dose of California sunshine.

The 38-year-old human rights lawyer was covered up in a baggy sweater with a heavy coat layered on top while the actor, 55, kept it casual in jeans and a collared shirt.

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Back in the states: Amal Clooney stepped out wearing a baggy sweater with a heavy coat layered on top; pictured with George Clooney at LAX on Friday

Amal sparked baby rumors a few weeks back after she was pictured wearing a floaty dress at The White Helmets screening, with Piers Morgan among those who speculated that she might be pregnant.

And American magazine InTouch Weekly even claimed last week she was expecting twins.

Tho couple have yet to comment on the rumors.

The pair are back in the US following overseas travels.

Traveling lovebirds: George, 55, and Amal Clooney, 38, were spotted arriving together to LAX on Friday following their overseas travels

Flawless: Amal chose to wear a grey graphic sweater with black leather bottoms

Wow: The stunning brunette stayed warm in a camel colored coat with a black hat on her head

Looking good: George carried his luggage and a suit in the other hand while stepping out in a black top with his light-wash denim bottoms

Last week, George and Amal attended the Women Of Impact Dinner hosted by Tina Brown in Davos, Switzerland.

Earlier this month, the duo stepped out in London for The White Helmets screening at the Bvlgari Hotel.

Guests included actor Douglas Booth, and the film's producer Joanna Natasegara and director Orlando von Einsiedel.

George and Amal became engaged in April of 2014, after dating for less than a year.

They married on September 27, 2014 at Ca'Farsetti Palace - located in Venice, Italy.

Beauty: Amal wore her locks in waves and opted for a touch of lipstick with defined brows
He's the star of the American series of My Kitchen Rules.

And Curtis Stone, 41, made sure he used his time in the USA to celebrate Australia Day on Thursday, by cooking a traditional Cottage Pie on Hollywood Today Live.

The hunky Melbourne-born chef left the hosts of the program literally speechless with the meal before posing for photographers to promote the appearance.

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Australia Day USA! Hunky Australian chef Curtis Stone dropped by Hollywood Today Live to celebrate Australia Day by cooking a traditional Cottage Pie

Curtis went business up-top, casual down-below, pairing his traditional chef whites and striped apron with casual navy chinos and skate shoes.

The genetically-blessed personality worked an unkempt beard, styling his short blonde hair to the side.

He beamed for the camera as he stood in a foyer in front of some vintage chairs.

In the window behind him, the sun-drenched cityscape of Hollywood gleams behind him.

Keeping it traditional! The 41-year-old went business up-top, casual down-below, pairing his traditional chef whites and striped apron with casual navy chinos and skate shoes

The Coles ambassador - who owns lavish Los Angeles Restaurants Maude and Gwen (named after his grandmothers) - dropped by Hollywood Today Live to celebrate Australia Day.

Hosts Amanda Salas and Ross Matthews were left stunned with the results of Curtis's 'fancy' Cottage Pie, with Amanda stumbling on her words the throw to commercial.

'Oh my gosh you guys, I can't even talk it's so good.' she said.

So good! Hosts Amanda Salas and Ross Matthews were left stunned with the results Curtis's 'fancy' Cottage Pie, with Amanda stumbling on her words the throw to commercial

Earlier, the brunette beauty remarked 'Curtis is so fancy!' After he co-host Ross was surprised by the implement being used to mash potatoes.

Later, the vivacious Ross looked flustered at the task, saying 'I don't think I'm doing this right,' after several minutes of concentrated silence.

'I just twist and twist and twist and nothing's happening!'

Curtis surveyed the situation for a second before replying: 'That's because you're doing it backwards darling.,' as the audience erupted into laughter.

Doing it backwards! Later, the vivacious Ross looked flustered after trying to complete his task for several minutes before Curtis worked out he was doing it backwards the whole time

The reults! The piping hot pie went down a treat, with Amanda commenting: 'Oh my gosh you guys, I can't even talk it's so good'

The chef was promoting an upcoming episode of the American version of My Kitchen Rules featuring Brandy Norwood and Ray J.

The series - based on the Australian hit of the same name - has yet to find steady footing in the US ratings despite its celebrity cameos.

American chef Cat Cora co-hosts the show.

My Kitchen Rules! The Celebrity chef - who owns two Los Angeles restaurants was in the studio to promote the American series of My Kitchen Rules, co-hosted by fellow-chef Cat Cora (R)
She's a firm favourite on Channel 4 having fronted many of it's most headline-grabbing shows.

But presenter Anna Richardson has turned down the chance to appear on the up-coming relaunch of Bake Off beside show stalwart, Paul Hollywood.

According to The Sun, the journalist and TV presenter, 46, found the decision to turn down the role due to her relationship with former show host Sue Perkins, 47.

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No go: Presenter Anna Richardson has turned down the chance to appear on the up-coming relaunch of Bake Off beside show stalwart, Paul Hollywood, over girlfriend Sue Perkins

Anna, who has been in a realtionship with the comedian and TV favourite since late 2014, is said to have been quick to say 'no' to Channel 4's offer.

Speaking to the newspaper a source explained how it was never going to be a job the Naked Attraction host would consider - due to Sue.

Labeling the idea 'It was always a non-starter for Anna,' said an insider.

'Shes very well thought of at Channel 4 and an obvious contender to host but it wouldnt have been right. Her links with Sue made it an easy decision.'

Loyalty? According to The Sun, the journalist and TV presenter, 46, found the decision to turn down the role due to her realtionship with former show host Sue Perkins, 47

MailOnline has contacted a representative of Anna's for comment.

The apparent blow for show bosses comes after three culinary stars were seen being screen tested for the show.

Michel Roux Jr., Frances Atkins and Rachel Allen were all spotted attending what appeared to be auditioning beside Paul Hollywood for a role on the show earlier this week.

It's a no from her: Speaking to the newspaper a source explained how it was never going to be a job the Naked Attraction host would consider - due to Sue

The insider said: 'Shes very well thought of at Channel 4 and an obvious contender to host but it wouldnt have been right. Her links with Sue made it an easy decision'

The Great British Bake Off was purchased by Channel 4 for 25 million per year, but the move from the BBC prompted popular co-host Mary Berry and presenters Mel Giedroyc and Sue to jump ship.

Original host Paul Hollywood has remained with the show after securing a deal he said 'doubled his wages', but he has found himself lambasted by fans of the show.

Earlier this week world-famous chef Michel, 56, Rachel Allen, 44, and Michelin starred chef Francis Atkins were all spotted arriving at a location in Tooting, South London where Hollywood was also seen.
She gave birth to second son Forest Sage in mid-December, last year.

And in her six-week postpartum vlog for Your Zen Mama on Friday, Teresa Palmer praised the film industry, as she returned to work at the Sundance Film Festival, to promote her latest project, Berlin Syndrome.

'I was breastfeeding [Forest] in the interviews,' the 30-year-old revealed, adding that everyone was 'so accommodating,' after being nervous to return to work so soon.

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'I was breastfeeding in the interviews': Teresa Palmer, 30, praised the industry for being 'so accommodating' in her six-week postpartum vlog on Your Zen Mama on Friday, as she returned to work just weeks after giving birth to son Forest

'He [Forest] came to every interview, I was breastfeeding in the interviews, even the video interviews.'

She added: 'They [the industry] were just so accommodating. I couldn't believe it. It made it so easy and it really was a positive experience ... I had been really nervous.'

Teresa promoted her six-week vlog post via Instagram on Saturday.

Adorable: Teresa promoted her six-week vlog post via Instagram on Saturday. A precious photo saw Forest in a striped onesie, laying on a brown couch, with his head facing a large pillow

A precious photo saw Forest in a striped onesie, laying on a brown couch, with his head facing a large pillow.

'6 weeks' was formed using a gold chained necklace with a large crystal at the end.

'My 6 Week Postpartum Vlog is up now on @yourzenmama,' Teresa wrote.

'I discuss our week at the Sundance Film Festival, going to the Oscars, our small semblance of a routine plus what's working [and what's not!] fav baby swings, sleep stretches plush share a bunch of new pics!' she continued.

Back to work: Teresa recently attended the Sundance Film Festival in Utah for the premiere of her new film Berlin Syndrome

Teresa recently attended the Sundance Film Festival in Utah for the premiere of her new film Berlin Syndrome.

Posing for photos, the blonde beauty sported a semi-sheer pink blouse with collar and bow detailing.

A black high-waisted skirt with silver hearts near the hemline, was teamed with black opaque tights and ankle boots.

She later covered her frame in a chic white overcoat with a grey fur collar.

In style: The actress covered her frame in a chic white overcoat with a grey fur collar

Her locks were swept into a chic updo, while a burgundy lip added a dramatic touch.

Teresa plays a journalist named Clare in the thriller, which sees her team up with a man named Andi (Riemelt) during a backpacking vacation in Germany.

The morning after, the terror sets in, as Andi will not allow her to leave the domicile.

Teresa shares children Bodhi Rain, two, and Forest Sage, with husband Mark Webber.

She is also a step-mother to Mark's son Isaac, eight, from a previous relationship.

Balancing act: The Adelaide-born star juggles an acting career, with blogging and motherhood. Pictured with husband Mark Webber, son Bodhi Rain, two, and Forest Sage
The Eccles Centre in Park City, Utah played host to the world premiere of the new comedy Fun Mom Dinner on Friday.

Julie Rudd, the movie's writer, posed at the Sundance Film Festival event alongside her husband Paul Rudd, an executive producer and actor on the project.

The dashing 47-year-old wore a belt with an elaborate buckle advertising Kansas - where he'd gone to university - as well as a stylish fossil grey blazer, a slightly sheer white dress shirt and dark jeans.

The couple that works together: Julie Rudd, the writer of Fun Mom Dinner, posed at its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival on Friday alongside her husband Paul Rudd, an executive producer and actor on the project

He put an arm about his wife, who'd artfully contrasted a voluminous black turtlenecked jumper with bright white trousers and walnut brown boots.

Holding a white clutch with metallic edges against her slacks, she grinned broadly ahead of screening the film, on which she's credited as Julie Yeager Rudd.

The couple have been married since 2003 and have got two children, a son called Jack born in 2006 and a daughter called Darby born in 2010.

Alumnus pride?: The dashing 47-year-old wore a belt with an elaborate buckle advertising Kansas - where he'd gone to university - as well as a stylish fossil grey blazer, a slightly sheer white dress shirt and dark jeans

Clashing: The screenwriter had artfully contrasted a voluminous black turtlenecked jumper with bright white trousers and walnut brown boots

Directed by Althea Jones, Fun Mom Dinner stars Toni Collette, Katie Aselton, Molly Shannon and Bridget Everett as four harried mothers of primary school children.

Getting together for the film's titular meal, they manage to relax in each other's company and embark on an intoxicated night out, per the Variety review.

Rudd, apparently, plays a marijuana dealer who pitches one of his products to the four women as 'Ruth Bader Ganja, because it gives you a Supreme high.'

Wintry chic: Katie Aselton, one of the four titular characters, had turned up to Friday's premiere in a bright orange knit turtleneck, over which she'd flung a black leather jacket with brown fuzzy trim

Aselton had turned up to Friday's premiere in a bright orange knit turtleneck, over which she'd flung a black leather jacket with brown fuzzy trim.

Her faded jeans featured tears over both knees and were heavily frayed at the hems, which were cut off high enough to reveal black high-heeled boots.

Meanwhile, Shannon had slipped a black velour shrug over a purple dress with a plunging V-neck and a matching slit up the front of its hem.

All smiles: Another, Toni Collette, had buttoned a pale pink blazer over a frilly off-white top with a high collar, and had let a bit of fringe grow into her wavy blonde hairdo

Check the bag: Dark jeans tightened about her enviably taut legs, and a leopard-print clutch went smarty with her black and sand-coloured boots

Cut off slightly below the knee, the outfit afforded a glance at solid black stockings that seemed almost a part of the black shoes she'd selected.

Collette had buttoned a pale pink blazer over a frilly off-white top with a high collar, and had let a bit of fringe grow into her wavy blonde hairdo.

Dark jeans tightened about her enviably taut legs, and a leopard-print clutch went smarty with her black and sand-coloured boots.

Beaming: Meanwhile, Molly Shannon had slipped a black velour shrug over a purple dress with a plunging V-neck and a matching slit up the front of its hem

Adam Scott, who plays the Aselton character's husband, slung a dark blazer atop the grey and green T-shirt he'd teamed with midnight blue jeans and brown boots.

He's also been an executive producer on the film, and his wife Naomi Scott, who's been a producer, posed alongside him in a flowing white top with lacy sleeves.

Tangles of white rope fell from the blouse over a flattering pair of black trousers that complemented her gleaming black boots.

With a hand in his pocket: Adam Scott, who plays the Aselton character's husband, slung a dark blazer atop the grey and green T-shirt he'd teamed with midnight blue jeans and brown boots

Collaborative couple: He's also been an executive producer on the film, and his wife Naomi Scott, who's been a producer, posed alongside him in a flowing white top with lacy sleeves
She's got an incredibly fit physique and is not afraid to show it off.

And on Friday, Michelle Rodriguez put her toned legs on display in leggings while heading to a workout in Brentwood, California.

The 38-year-old wore an eye-catching Rolling Stones T-shirt with coordinating sneakers for her fitness session at an LA area gym.

Stunner: Michelle Rodriguez put her toned legs on display while heading to a workout on Friday in Brentwood, California

The Fast And The Furious star chose striped leggings, which showed off her sculpted stems.

Michelle donned The Rolling Stones tee with a white hoodie and a motorcycle jacket on top.

The actress wore equally bright sneakers - with black and red tones - as she headed inside.

She styled the look with a gold necklace and round-framed orange sunglasses.

Fan of the classics: The 38-year-old wore an eye-catching Rolling Stones T-shirt with coordinating sneakers for her fitness session at an LA area gym

Beaming beauty: The Fast And Furious star chose grey striped leggings, which showed off the actress' sculpted stems

Michelle wore her brunette locks pulled back into a low bun and opted to forgo all makeup.

She's currently in the midst of filming Fast & Furious 8, which is the eighth installment of the hit Fast And Furious franchise.

Michelle will reprise her role as Letty 'Ortiz' Toretto in the film, which is scheduled to hit theaters on April 14.

She's ready to sweat: The actress wore equally bright sneakers - with black and red tones - as she headed inside

Smiling for gym day: Michelle wore her brunette locks pulled back into a low bun and opted to forgo all makeup

Star power: She's in the midst of filming Fast & Furious 8, which is the eighth installment of the Fast And Furious franchise; seen in Furious Seven with Ludacris and Tyrese in 2015

Last week, Michelle Rodriguez took part in the Women's March in Washington, D.C..

The star was seen heading to LAX the day before, while dressed in white skinny jeans with a T-shirt and a black and white leather jacket.

She finished off her ensemble with a charcoal beanie and cream boots.

Focused: Last week, Michelle Rodriguez took part in the Women's March in Washington, DC
She returned to the public eye earlier this week, following an alleged domestic violence incident with partner Jean-David Blanc last October.

And Melissa George displayed some of her trademark flair on Friday, after being snapped in a quirky outfit while attending The Best Award Gala 40th Edition, held at the Four Seasons in Paris.

The 40-year-old actress flaunted her shapely legs in a bold silver gown, complete with futuristic-inspired hot-pink sleeves.

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Quirky! Australian actress Melissa George flaunted her lithe legs in a quirky outfit at an awards gala at the Four Seasons in Paris on Friday

In images from the event, the previously raven-haired beauty sported highlighted locks to match her striking silver gown - which was made up of thousands of thin-haired strands.

The unique tassels shone against the photographer's flash and resembled tinsel, further highlighting her pronounced hot pink sleeves and waistband.

The former Home and Away actress's luscious locks were neatly swept up in a chic updo, letting a small fringe spill out to frame her flawless visage.

At one point, she angled an arm against her slender waist, turning her head to give the crowd a good look at her dangling silver earrings and plump red lips.

Lighter, louder: In images from the Friday event, the typically raven-haired beauty had been lightened to match her striking silver gown, which was made up of thousands of thin-haired strands and complemented by futuristic hot-pink accents

She's back! The 40-year-old, returned to the spotlight last week following an alleged domestic violence incident with partner Jean-David Blanc last October

Melissa was also pictured with jet-setting Italian millionaire Massimo Gargia at the event.

Earlier this week, the beauty debuted a much more subtle all black ensemble at day two of Paris Fashion Week.

She was last pictured in October as she left a Paris court following Jean David's appearance on domestic assault charges.

Greeting fellow guests: She was pictured with jet-setting Italian millionaire Massimo Gargia at the event

In September, the actress was admitted to Cochin hospital after turning up to a local police station with bruises to her face and complaints of pain.

The Perth-born actress was allegedly assaulted by her partner of four years - allegations Jean-David denies, according to a report in French newspaper Le Parisien.

The couple first met in 2011 at a BAFTA after-party and welcomed their first son Raphael in February 2014 and their second son Solal the following year.

Melissa was previously married to Chilean film director Caludio Dabed.
She became famous for her voluptuous swimsuit-clad figure back in the 1990s in her Baywatch heyday.

And decades on, Pamela Anderson, 49, is still showing off her conspicuous assets - this time in an eclectic black and grey full skirted dress.

The star looked stunning as she stepped out at The Best Award Gala 40th Edition' at Four Seasons George V hotel in Paris on Friday night, displaying an impossibly youthful complexion.

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She's eclectic: Pamela Anderson sported a strapless black and grey ensemble as she stepped out at the Best Award Gala 40th Edition' at Four Seasons George V hotel

Partying the night away: The impossibly youthful looking actress was a vision in her quirky yet feminine attire

The star sported subtle make-up and a demure loose hair style as she arrived at the ceremony.

Black and white earrings, strappy black heels and a boxy clutch added to the look as she joined a smattering of stars at the bash.

Melissa George arrived in a grey tutu-style dress teamed with pink shoulder pads and matching belt, while Hofit Golan looked stunning in a satin red Christophe Guillarme number.

Accesories: Black and white earrings, strappy black heels and a boxy clutch added to the look as she joined a smattering of stars at the bash

Minimal: Pamela sported subtle make-up and a demure hair style for the bash

This way please: Pamela was escorted by promoter Massimo Gargia at the event

Positively beaming: The star glammed up after spending time in refugee camps

A kiss on the hand: Pamela was charmed by the Italian

Pamela has been recently spending time in France, paying a visit to a refugee camp in northern France, handing out supplies including food and children's books.

She made a visit to the La Liniere camp outside Dunkirk, after making a stop at an aid group's warehouse in Calais, where a huge makeshift camp harbouring thousands of migrants was closed after a forced evacuation in October.

Wearing high heels, she stooped to distribute fruit to children and passed out blankets, gloves and children's books.

Radiant: Pammy displayed her eternally youthful complexion as she prepared for dinner

Sealed with a kiss: The actress cuddled up to French jeweller Edouard Nahum

Checking out her bling: The high end jeweller couldn't resist admiring her ring

Taking to the stage: Pamela was at hand to help present on the evening

Tucking in: The A-lister was treated to a gourmet sit down dinner at the bash

La Voix du Nord newspaper quoted her as saying that everyone should see what a camp is like and ask what they can do.

The Canadian-born star promotes animal, human and environmental rights after shooting to fame on Baywatch.

Writing on her blog Anderson said: 'I'm leaving Dunkirk now. I'm speechless. I'm so angry. The children are so lovely and polite. I gave out blankets, hats, gloves, fruit, colouring books and crayons.

'Some were so fearful they wouldn't get a blanket or crayons or an apple - it was chaos. I'll never forget today. I brought some whisky to the volunteers.'

Futuristic: Melissa George cut a modern figure in her grey feathered dress with pink shoulder pads and a matching belt

Hanging with the glamour girls: Hofit Golan, Massimo and Francesca Dutton posed for some sophisticated snaps
She reportedly split from her personal trainer fiance Dan Adair in October last year.

But Natalie Roser looked a picture of contentment, in her latest selfie shared to Instagram on Saturday.

The 26-year-old, who has relocated to the United States for a modelling career, drew attention to her striking eyes and symmetrical facial features in a sultry close-up.

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Model looks! Natalie Roser, 26, showed off her striking facial features in a sultry snap snared to Instagram on Saturday, after moving abroad for work following split from fiance Dan Adair

'Trying to pretend I'm not freezing Wearing 7 layers,' Natalie captioned the snap alongside a series of snowflake and double heart emojis.

The image shared with the star's 725,000 Instagram followers saw Natalie offering a glimpse of her bronzed decolletage in a pink silk bomber jacket, with the zipper left slightly undone.

Accessorising with a pair of delicate hoop earrings, the blonde bombshell allowed her long locks to fall predominately over one shoulder, with several strands framing her face.

Smouldering for the camera, Natalie drew attention to her striking facial features with a flawless complexion, defined brows, subtle kohl-rimmed eyes, lashings of mascara and a glossy pink lip.

Flaunting it: Since becoming a newly single woman, the statuesque beauty has been posting many scantily-clad snaps to Instagram

Since becoming a newly single woman, the statuesque beauty has been posting many scantily-clad snaps to Instagram, including a racy bedroom shot in a white G-string bikini.

Following her shock split from Dan Adair, Natalie has chosen to relocate to Los Angeles.

Last week, she confirmed the news on Instagram, saying she will be moving to the United States to pursue a modelling career.

Natalie shared a photo of herself and her younger brother during her farewell lunch at a Sydney restaurant.

Change of scene: Last week, Natalie confirmed on Instagram that she will be relocating to the United States, to pursue a modelling career

'Saying goodbye to my little brother and family today because I'm moving to L.A. next week!' Natalie captioned the photo.

The photo confirms Natalie has split from Dan, following months of rumours the couple had ended their long-term romance.

On New Year's Eve, the stunner posted one of her trademark bikini photos to her Instagram account.

The former Miss Universe Australia contestant hinted in the caption that the past 12 months had been incredibly difficult.

'Ready to move past 2016 and start 2017 with a bang!' Natalie wrote.

Former flame: Natalie and Dan Adair [pictured] became engaged on holiday in July 2015 and had previously set their wedding date for October 2016

Natalie and her personal trainer fiance had been noticeably absent from each other's Instagram accounts in recent months.

The couple became engaged on holiday in July 2015 and had previously set their wedding date for October 2016.

The ceremony was unexpectedly postponed last year, but a representative for the couple denied they had split.

'Their wedding has been moved not due to a third person in the relationship,' a spokesperson previously told Daily Mail Australia.

Not to be: The ceremony was unexpectedly postponed last year, but a representative for the couple denied they had split: 'It was moved because the reception venue ended up closing down and they haven't yet found a replacement place to have the reception at,' the spokesperson said at the time

'It was moved because the reception venue ended up closing down and they haven't yet found a replacement place to have the reception at.

'That's the only reason why it's been moved. There is no third person and there is nothing wrong with their relationship.'

Dan is a personal trainer to several celebrities, including Home And Away's Pia Miller and Jesinta Franklin (nee Campbell).

He is also responsible for Roxy Jacenko's recent body transformation, which saw the Sweaty Betty PR founder lose 10kgs.
She's been busy working on her upcoming heist comedy Ocean's Eight.

And Anne Hathaway appeared as though she was in full wardrobe when she stepped out in New York City on Friday.

The 34-year-old actress looked ever the A-lister in an all black ensemble complete with dark movie star shades and a bold red lip.

Big Apple babe! Anne Hathaway looked ever the A-lister when she stepped out in New York City on Friday

The Academy Award-winning actress donned a chic knee-length coat with leather sleeves and cosy wool lining.

A pair of black skintight leggings encased the slender star's long lean limbs which she finished with knee high leather boots.

Her silky chestnut tresses were swept back into a glamorous updo with not a single fly-away in sight.

The Devil Wears Prada star added a rosy blush to her deep crimson lip and skipped the accessories, allowing her modern attire to take centre stage.

Dressed to impress! The 34-year-old actress has been busy filming her upcoming heist comedy Ocean's Eight and appeared as though she was in full wardrobe

Anne had her hands full as she carried a water bottle, thermos, mustard yellow journal and paperback book while making her way through the Big Apple.

Meanwhile, the mother-of-one has been in the city filming the upcoming blockbuster Ocean's Eight with it's all star cast.

The Les Miserables actress will join an all-female powerhouse line-up including Rihanna, Sandra Bullock, Cate Blanchett, Mindy Kaling, Helena Bonham Carter and rapper Awkwafina in the next installment of the Ocean's franchise.

The Gary Ross-directed film is set to be released on June 8, 2018.

Chic coat: The Academy Award-winning actress donned a knee-length jacket with leather sleeves and cosy wool lining

Additionally, it was recently revealed Anne is to also star in the remake of Dirty Rotten Scoundrels.

The brunette beauty is in talks to join the previously-cast Rebel Wilson in the upcoming twist on the con-artist comedy, which will now be called Nasty Women.

The film will see the gender roles reversed from the 1988 saga - which starred Steve Martin and Michael Caine as two men competing to swindle an heiress, played by Glenne Headly, out of her fortune - as Anne and Rebel play two cultured scam artists competing to take billions from a naive tech prodigy.

As with the first movie, Nasty Women is expected to show differences in class between the two con artists.

Jac Schaffer - who has been working on The Shower for Anne - is writing the script for the film, but it doesn't yet have a director.
For the past three months, Laura Csortan has been busy doting on her newborn daughter Layla Rose.

But on Saturday morning, the 40-year-old treated herself to a break and visited Spa Q at the QT Hotel on the Gold Coast.

The new mum was pictured on Instagram getting into relaxation mode after leaving her baby girl with her mother.

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Game changer: Laura Csortan finally let herself have a break from taking care of her daughter and visited the spa of a specialised new mum spa treatment at Spa Q

'My Mum looked after Layla for me while I popped into Spa Q @qtgoldcoast for an hour long personalised massage perfect for a new mum,' she captioned.

'It's the longest I've been away from my baby since she was born, Yep! I soaked up every baby free second and now feel a million bucks (I missed bub though, hopeless).'

She added: 'Feeling recharged and have sorted out some of the knots on my knots, I'll be ready for another next week. Wishful thinking... but seriously.'

Adorable: Laura has been at the QT hotel for the past few days taking some time out to bond with her little girl Layla Rose

The model also shared a photo of herself carrying her Layla Rose in a baby carrier for their first walk using it, which she described as a 'game changer.'

'I finally feel confident to put Layla in the carrier and the freedom it gives is brilliant!... she slept the whole time in perfect comfort.'

The TV presenter has been at the QT hotel on the Gold Coast for the past few days taking some time out to bond with her little girl.

Mum's hour off: The blonde beauty said the session left her feeling recharged and sorted out some of the knots in her back, 'I'll be ready for another next week,' she said

Early on in their stay, she posted a pic of her and her beloved baby poolside, showing off her enviable 'mum life' as well as her impressive post baby body.

The blonde beauty uploaded a picture of herself and her two-month-old daughter, poolside at the QT hotel on the Gold Coast.

In the snap, she poses for the camera in a black two-piece bikini while holding her infant close to her chest.

Poolside: Laura Csortan poses for the camera in a black two-piece bikini while holding two-month-old Layla Rose close to her chest

Accessorising with a pair of dark cat eye glasses, the model appears to be loving life near the water, doting over Layla in her arms.

Laura captioned her post: 'Pool daze... she slept and fed, I wet my feet #mumlife @qtgoldcoast.'

Beauties: She captioned her bikini post 'Pool daze... she slept and fed, I wet my feet #mumlife @qtgoldcoast'

Hello sunshine: The mother and daughter duo appear to have been at the luxurious QT hotel on the Gold Coast for a few days

Her adorable post garnered dozens of likes and comments from her followers.

Cheryl 'Chezzi' Denyer, the wife of Family Feud host Grant Denyer wrote: 'Gorgeous gorgeous pic! Congratulations on a special bundle of "pink" joy! Little girls are the best.'

While another user complimented her figure, writing: 'Looking beautiful and sexy.'

Laura has posted a number of doting images of Layla over the last week, featuring captions such as 'I still can't believe you're my little girl' and 'You can have whatever you want.'

Motherly love: Laura has posted a number of doting images of Layla over the last week, featuring captions such as 'I still can't believe you're my little girl'

Apple of her eye: Laura captioned another image 'You can have whatever you want'

According to her Instagram, the mother and daughter duo have been at the luxury hotel for the past few days.

In another post she uploaded, the model shares a picture of her cheat day treats including donuts, a cinnamon swirl and danish, paired with healthy alternatives such as a pear and a glass of orange juice.

Layla can be seen adorably looking up at her mum.

Her witty caption read: 'Whoa seriously mum! A minute on the lips.... @qtgoldcoast.'
He failed to find love on the latest season of The Bachelorette.

But on Friday, Sam Johnston revealed exclusively to Daily Mail Australia that he's 'seeing someone,' and has been doing so for several months.

'I've actually been seeing someone,' he said.

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Off the market? On Friday, reality star Sam Johnston revealed exclusively to Daily Mail Australia that he has been 'seeing someone', however he would not divulge details on the woman's identity after being linked to Noni Janur (pictured)

'... Yeah I got asked the other day like you know, is it easier to get the girls or is it harder to get girls after the show - actually don't know. Even before the show went to air I've been seeing someone.'

Sam, 27, did not divulge details of the woman's identity, but stated that they began seeing each other shortly after he left The Bachelorette mansion and before the show aired.

The revelation comes just weeks after he was linked to fellow reality star, Noni Janur, after they were reportedly seen shopping for groceries together over the New Year.

The news is sure to come as a blow Sam's admirers, who frequently swoon over his shirtless Instagram snaps.

'Seeing someone': Sam revealed the news exclusively to Daily Mail Australia

During the exclusive interview, Sam also addressed the romance rumours with Noni, cryptically stating: 'I love Noni... We're good mates, nothing more than that.'

The star hasn't posted any pictures with mystery women to his Instagram account, instead sharing snaps of male friends.

Sam, who is an electrician and model, also discussed his plans to move to the United States to pursue a career in acting.

Breaking hearts: The news that Sam is seeing someone will surely shatter the hearts of a few fans, who swoon over Sam's shirtless shots

The former reality star stated that he will meet with agents in Miami, before then deciding whether to relocate to New York or Los Angeles.

When asked if the mystery woman would be joining him on his American adventure, Sam said, 'Well she might be from the States, or she might be coming with me, we're not sure yet.'

Meanwhile, the handsome star denied a report published in NW that he has 'done' two Bachelor stars.

Hanging out with mates: Sam hasn't given away the identity of his new flame, preferring to share photos with friends, including this recent shot where he appears second from right

'Full of s**t', Sam said about the claims.

Meanwhile, he also deflected suggestions he had propositioned Bachelor stars Megan Marx and Tiffany Scanlon for a threesome, after the couple claimed they were constantly asked for group sex.

'I'm sure no one has asked those two girls for a threesome,' he stated.

New collaboration: The handsome model has recently partnered with Azzaro for the launch of their fragrance Azzaro Wanted

'Certainly not me.'

Sam recently collaborated with international fragrance brand, Azzaro, for the Australian launch of their scent Azzaro Wanted, which hits stores on Sunday.
Wintertime may still be in progress, but the forthcoming Baywatch film's assured its fans-to-be: 'DON'T WORRY, SUMMER IS COMING.'

On Friday, a septet of 'moving poster' videos debuted on YouTube, each but one showing a character's sexual magnetism prevailing against cold weather.

Kelly Rohrbach has only to slip her anorak off her shoulders, exposing a cleavage-baring swimsuit, and ice over the screen melts. A villainous Priyanka Chopra acts as the exception and creates frost on the screen rather than getting rid of it.

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Power of a one-piece: Kelly Rohrbach was one of the featured castmembers in a series of 'moving posters' promoting Baywatch released on Friday

Cocktail dress in the cold: A villainous Priyanka Chopra acts as the exception and creates frost on the screen rather than getting rid of it

In Zac Efron's, he showcases his taut physique in a skintight navy rash-guard and, looking slightly flustered, licks through part of a film of ice covering the screen.

Ultimately, he dissipates the frost by slamming his hands against it, after which the whole cast are seen in swimsuits, stood among snowy mountains - a shot that closes out each of the videos.

The film's adapted from the NBC programme of the same name, which ran from 1989 to 2001, spending 1999 until its final year under the name Baywatch Hawaii.

Septet: The cast of Baywatch have appeared in a series of 'moving poster' videos, each but one showing a character's sexual magnetism prevailing against cold weather; the cast includes (from left) Ilfenesh Hadera, Alexandra Daddario, Zac Efron, Dwayne Johnson, Kelly Rohrbach, John Bass and Priyanka Chopra

Matt Cody, the character Efron's taken on for the cinema adaptation, was originated on television by David Charvet.

Meanwhile, Dwayne Johnson's assumed the role of Mitch Buchannon, famously portrayed by David Hasselhoff on NBC.

In his 'moving poster,' Johnson's navy rash-guard tightens about his own musclebound frame as he draws a smiling face in the icy film.

Ultimately, he wipes a circle in the frost wide enough for his face and torso to be clearly visible whilst he smiles and flips off the camera.

Getting through: In Efron's, he showcases his taut physique in a skintight navy rash-guard and, looking slightly flustered, licks through part of a film of ice covering the screen

Source material: The film's adapted from the NBC programme of the same name, which ran from 1989 to 2001, spending 1999 until its final year under the name Baywatch Hawaii

Pamela Anderson, who achieved stardom and ran around a great deal as CJ Parker on TV's Baywatch, has been succeeded in the part by Rohrbach.

Her 'moving poster' sees her in a fur-trimmed off-white parka, but as she turns and puts her arms at her hips, the coat spreads to show a cleavage-baring red swimsuit.

Rohrbach's faint grin is enough to dissipate the ice in front of her, which she doesn't even have to touch as it crackles out of view.

Shoes to fill: Matt Cody, the character Efron's taken on for the cinema adaptation, was originated on television by David Charvet

Among the other cast members who can siphon off the frost just by opening her coat and showing off her swimsuit in front of it is Alexandra Daddario.

Her character, Roberta 'Summer' Quinn, was played by Nicole Eggert on television and in the film will develop a romantic connection with Matt Brody.

Meanwhile, Mitch Buchannon's amorous attentions will be aimed in the direction of Stephanie Holden, whom Alexandra Paul portrayed on NBC.

Leading man: Meanwhile, Johnson's assumed the role of Mitch Buchannon, famously portrayed by David Hasselhoff on NBC

Showing what he's got: In his 'moving poster,' Johnson's navy rash-guard tightens about his own musclebound frame as he wipes through the icy film

Ilfenesh Hadera's taken on the part for the film version, and in her 'moving poster,' sliding her jacket off her shoulders was quite enough to melt the ice as well.

Chopra's assumed the role of Victoria Leeds, a character who unlike the others with 'moving posters' has been created especially for the film.

Leeds is 'patronising and mean in a really fabulous, delicious way,' as Chopra said to Flare, and is the antagonist of the forthcoming comedy.

'Don't worry': Among the other cast members who can siphon off the frost just by opening her coat and showing off her swimsuit in front of it is Alexandra Daddario, whose character Summer Quinn was played by Nicole Eggert on television

Also etting her apart from the other characters, she appears not in a lifeguard uniform but in a blue cocktail dress that drapes about her svelte frame.

Moreover, rather than getting rid of the ice, she blows a kiss to the initially clear scree and causes frost to spread all over its surface.

John Bass, playing the pudgy Ronnie, who's smitten by CJ, opens his coat over his shirtless figure and manages to clear part of the frozen screen himself.

After opening in American cinemas on May 26, the Baywatch film, directed by Seth Gordon, will be released in Britain on June 2.
She's the glamorous AFL WAG known for her fashion-forward outfits.

So it's no surprise that Jessie Murphy [nee Habermann] wowed fans in her latest Instagram snap shared on Saturday.

The 27-year-old blonde beauty highlighted her slender legs in a thigh-skimming wrap dress, as she enjoyed cocktails at Melbourne hot spot Toko.

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Lady of leisure! Jessie Murphy [nee Habermann], 27, took to Instagram on Saturday, showing off her trim pins in a flirty thigh-skimming frock, as she enjoyed cocktails at Melbourne hotspot Toko

The snap showed the lifestyle blogger sporting a soft peach semi-sheer wrap dress, highlighting her bronzed and lean legs.

A corset in a deeper peach hue cinched in at her naturally slender waist, adding a flirty dimension to the outfit.

Accessorising with a pair of round-rimmed sunglasses and a Louis Vuitton handbag, Jessie styled her blonde locks in a centre part and in glamorous waves.

Yacht life: Just a day earlier, Jessie attended an exclusive yacht party with fellow AFL WAGs Rebecca Judd, 33 [centre], and Hayley Robertson [left], for Australia Day

The socialite's pretty facial features were enhanced with a flawless complexion, a touch of bronzer, and a coating of pink lipstick over her plump pout.

Just a day earlier, Jessie attended an exclusive yacht party with fellow AFL WAGs Rebecca Judd, 33, and Hayley Robertson, for Australia Day.

Rebecca shared a glimpse of the girls' day out on Instagram, posting a selfie of the trio.

Leisurely: An earlier snap captioned '#strayaday', saw a large group sipping drinks on the yacht together

With a drink in hand, a smiling Bec wrote in the caption: 'Lucky little Aussies.'

While an earlier snap captioned '#strayaday', saw a large group sipping drinks on the yacht together.

Jessie is the wife of AFL Carlton captain Marc Murphy, 29.

Loved-up: Jessie is the wife of AFL Carlton captain Marc Murphy, 29

Marc proposed to Jessie in September 2015 with a giant diamond sparkler.

On December 29 the following year, the couple tied the knot in a lavish ceremony at a rooftop venue in Melbourne, that offered sweeping views of the city.

Nuptials: The couple tied the knot in a lavish ceremony on December 29, last year, at a rooftop venue in Melbourne, that offered sweeping views of the city
It's been a sad few weeks for the Fisher family.

But hopefully they'll find some solace in the grieving process.

On Friday, 58-year-old Todd Fisher, who was Carrie's younger brother, announced on his website that a public memorial service would be held on March 25th.

Closure: On Friday, 58-year-old Todd Fisher, who was Carrie's younger brother, announced on his website that a public memorial service would be held on March 25th

'We will be celebrating their lives with friends, family members, and the people who loved them, you' he said in a simple statement.

'The service will begin at 1:00 PM and immediately afterwards, those who want to walk to their final resting place are welcome to do so,' he added.

And it seems organizers are planning for a sizable crowd, as he tried to assuage fears that there wouldn't be adequate seating: 'There are a limited number of seats available, and it will be on a first come first come, first seated basis. There will be room for overflow in the huge lobby as well as the outside with screens to watch and hear the service.'

The memorial will take place at the famous Forest Lawn Cemetery Hollywood Hills, which is just north of Hollywood itself.

Open invitation: 'We will be celebrating their lives with friends, family members, and the people who loved them, you' he said in a simple statement (Todd pictured with sister Carrie and niece Billie Catherine Lourd in 2015)

Todd's announcement comes the same day that one of Carrie's final wishes was revealed to the public as well.

It has emerged that Carrie Fisher apparently wanted Harrison Ford to sing at her Oscars In Memoriam tribute.

The 60-year-old Blues Brothers actress passed away last month after suffering a heart attack, with her famous mother dying shortly thereafter at the age of 84.

Memories: It's been a sad few weeks for the Fisher family (Todd pictured with his mom Debbie in 2004)

But six years ago, in an interview with the Rebel Force Radio podcast, she joked that she wanted her Star Wars co-star and former lover Harrison to sing in her death reel.

She said: 'I asked him [at a party] if he would be in my death reel, and if he would sing. It's just something I want. He's going to sing Melancholy Wookiee.'

'I figured they'll bring out, depending on when it happens, there's a lot of people they can bring out.'

When asked if she had ever heard Harrison sing, she joked: 'No, and I don't think we're missing much.'
She's been busy promoting her film 'Fun Mom Dinner' at the Sundance film festival.

But Toni Collette also found the time to let her hair down with a night out alongside co-stars Molly Shannon, Katie Aselton, and Bridget Everett in Utah this week.

The Australian actress, 44, and her co-stars were pictured partying up a storm on the dancefloor following the premiere of what they hope will be a hit comedy.

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Party mum! Toni Collette found time to let her hair down after the premiere of her movie 'Fun Mom Dinner' at the Sundance film festival

Choosing snugness over splendour for the cold conditions, Collette decided to ditch formal dress in favour of a blazer, jeans and comfortable snow boots.

With her skin-tight denim jeans tucked into her tan boots, Collette and her friends laughed as they formed a circle and partied hard.

Throwing her hands high in the air, the Hollywood star showed off her dance moves and appeared to be in a jolly mood despite mixed reactions to the film.

Co-stars! Collette (back left) posed alongside Molly Shannon, Katie Aselton and Bridget Everett who she stars alongside in the film

Collette and a number of her co-stars also took to Instagram to share images from their night out.

'FUN MOM DINNER premiere!!! I love these ladies. This film is a love letter to mothers everywhere...' the mother-of-two captioned a photo of the movie's stars.

Another image of her hugging co-stars Bridget Everett and Katie Aselton saw her use just love hearts.

Hours earlier as she arrived for the screening of her divisive film, the blonde beauty seemingly couldn't wipe the smile off her face.

Movie-ready: The 44-year-old ditched the dress in favour of a blazer, jeans and comfortable snow boots for the screening in Salt Lake City Utah

Subtle: The blonde beauty went for relatively subtle makeup that didn't overpower the carefree ensemble

Toni's beige single-buttoned blazer covered a frilly cream shirt, as the sleeves poked out from underneath.

The mother-of-two accessorised her movie ready outfit with a leopard print clutch, while she opted for a subtle makeup that didn't overpower her carefree ensemble.

Earlier this week Collette rubbed shoulders with more Australian acting royalty and a music legend.

Pictured alongside Cate Blanchett and REM front man Michael Stipe, Toni was happily taking in a night at Cate's show The Present on Broadway before her trip to Utah.

Star-studded: Earlier this week Collette rubbed shoulders with fellow Australian acting legend Cate Blanchett and R.E.M front man Michael Stipe

Netflix has already purchased rights to the distribution of 'Fun Mom Dinner', so fans looking to view the picture won't have to travel to snowy Utah to get a peek.

Toni has been married to musician Dave Galafassi since 2003.

The couple have a daughter Sage Florence, 9 and son Arlo Robert, 5.
She has her own line of designer clothes.

So it's no surprise that Nicole Richie was on hand for the Harper's Bazaar celebration of the 150 Most Fashionable Women event in Los Angeles on Friday.

The 35-year-old daughter of the great Lionel Richie looked every inch the fashionista in her sophisticated black frock.

In the right spot: Nicole Richie was on hand for the Harper's Bazaar celebration of the 150 Most Fashionable Women event in Los Angeles on Friday

The black floor-length, off-the-shoulder dress was quite clingy, and showed off the former reality star's lithe frame.

A large knit component rimmed the neckline and merged into a bow just below her left shoulder.

Her dirty blonde locks were styled up and back into a tight mini-bun.

Flattering cut: The black floor-length, off-the-shoulder dress was quite clingy, and showed off the former reality star's lithe frame

Aside from several diamond earrings in each ear and a sizable ring on her left hand, the multi-talented star was accessory free.

Of course her make-up was perfectly applied, and featured some large and eye-catching wing-like lashes. Subtle blush and light power pink lipstick completed her glam look.

The gala event presented by TUMI in partnership with American Express was held at the landmark Sunset Tower Hotel in LA as it kicked off SAG Awards weekend in the city.

Ready for take-off! Of course her make-up was perfectly applied, and featured some large and eye-catching wing-like lashes

It celebrated the 150th anniversary of the iconic publication with the 150 Most Fashionable Women featured in the February issue.

Meanwhile, though she was alone on Friday evening, Nicole stepped out with her husband of six years Joel Madden the night before.

With their loved-up display, the duo shut down the gossip surrounding their relationship, which had been swirling since early December.
He's the Australian celebrity chef taking My Kitchen Rules to the United States.

But it seems that fine cuisine isn't the only thing on which Curtis Stone, 41, is willing to serve up an opinion.

The Melbourne-born chef this week shared his views on American politics, following the lead of fellow Australian star Nicole Kidman and urging people to give new US president Donald Trump a chance.

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Opinion: Australian-born celebrity chef Curtis Stone has spoken out on the state of politics in the United States

'My granny always taught me you should never talk about religion and politics and for the first time I probably understand why,' Stone, who isn't a Trump supporter, told the Herald Sun.

'In some ways I really like the fact that we are all talking about it, at least, because if you don't talk about it then nothing can ever be fixed or changed.'

The owner of two restaurants in Los Angeles, Stone has called the US home for more than a decade.

Wait and see: Stone, the face of My Kitchen Rules in the United States, has urged people to give Trump a chance in the White House

Speaking out on the state of affairs in his adopted homeland, the father-of-two stressed the importance of respecting the democratic process.

While admitting the divisions in society highlighted by the billionaire's election made for a 'scary' climate, Stone said the Presidents early days hadn't been the disaster that many had claimed.

Unknown: The father-of-two admitted the divisions in society highlighted by the billionaire's election made for a 'scary' climate, but that it would be a case of wait and see

'Much as it is reported in the media, nothing here has changed yet in our day to day lives,' he said.

Stone's decision to share his views on Trump comes just weeks after Kidman made a similar statement about the new president.

The Daily Mail reached out to Curtis for comment.

Controversial: Stone's decision to share his views on Trump (pictured) comes just weeks after fellow Australian star Nicole Kidman made a similar statement about the new president

A dual citizen of Australia and the US, Kidman didn't back Trump but did urge for him to be supported upon taking over the Oval Office.

'I'm always reticent to start sort of commenting politically, I've never done it in terms of America or Australia,' the Hollywood star said.

'I'm issue based in the things I comment on, so I just say he's now elected and we as a country need to support whoever's the president.'

It comes as Australian prime minister Malcolm Turnbull prepares for his first official phone call with Trump on Sunday morning, the first since he was inaugurated.
They met in New York last year and have enjoyed a whirlwind romance ever since.

And things could be soon getting serious for embattled Essendon player Jobe Watson and model Virginia Slaghekke, who moved to Melbourne this year to be closer to her boyfriend.

On Saturday, the 26-year-old beauty caught the bouquet thrown at the nuptials of Essendon captain Brendon James Goddard and Rosie Brookes, fuelling speculation that wedding bells aren't far off for Jobe.

'When you catch that bouquet': Model girlfriend of Essendon player Jobe Watson Virgina Slaghekke catches flower toss at Brendon James Goddard and Rosie Brookes wedding

In a photo shared on Virginia's Instagram, The Dutch-born beauty covers her face with one manicured hand while clutching Rosie's wedding bouquet in the other.

The pre-med student, who is also signed to Donald Trump's modelling agency, appears overwhelmed after catching the bunch of flowers, widely accepted as a sign the recipient will be next to walk down the aisle.

Virginia wears her dark locks in sleek waves over her shoulders, showing off her flawless physique in a black cut-out dress.

Something to tell us? The Dutch-born beauty covers her face with one manicured hand while clutching Rosie's wedding bouquet in the other

Partying up: The model seems to be settling into Australian life well after arriving in the country earlier this month on a student exchange program

'When you catch that bouquet,' she captioned the photo.

The model seems to be settling into Australian life well after arriving in the country earlier this month on a student exchange program.

Virginia mingled with others throughout the wedding, posing happily for photos with other glamourous female guests.

Settling in: Virginia mingled with others throughout the wedding, posing happily for photos with other glamourous female guests

Jobe and Virginia met in the United States last year while the former Essendon caption was stationed after being handed a 12 month suspension for his involvement in the club's supplements scandal.

The couple were first publicly linked in October, when the model accompanied Jobe to his sister's wedding in Bali.

Whirlwind romance: The couple were first publicly linked in October, when the model accompanied Jobe to his sister's wedding in Bali

While now a university student, Virginia already has a successful career under her belt modelling for Cartier and LOreal, as well as appearing in the pages of Russian and Italian Vogue.

Jobe's career remains up the air since his suspension, handing back his 2012 Brownlow Medal in November ahead of a pending decision on whether he should of been stripped of the award by the AFL Commission.
She's one of Australia's hottest modelling exports who counts Kendall Jenner among her A-list American friends.

And Nicole Trunfio is winning more than just the admiration of the Kardashian clan, being named one of Harper's Bazaar 150 Most Fashionable Women.

On Friday the brunette beauty stunned on the red carpet for the publication's gala, pulling out all the stops in a body hugging black number.

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Coming in hot! Nicole Trunfio stuns in figure-hugging little black dress at Harper's Bazaar 150 Most Fashionable Women gala

The Perth-born beauty modelled a sleek top knot which showed off her killer cheekbones.

Nicole wore a figure-hugging black velvet dress, featuring a fashionable long sleeve on one side.

The mother of one kept her shoes and bag simple, sporting strappy black stilettos and a matching box clutch.

In fashion: Nicole wore a figure-hugging black velvet dress, featuring a fashionable long sleeve on one side

But the model pulled out all the stops in the jewellery department, sharing a close-up look at her choice of sparklers on her Instagram story.

The Face Australia judge can be seen wearing a stunning diamond choker and earrings which added to her look.

Nicole sported a subtle makeup look, wearing just a hint of mascara and lipstick which only accentuated her natural beauty.

Right to fight: On Saturday Nicole Trunfio turned protester, joining tens of thousands of people protesting for women's rights and against the US president, Donald Trump

Her dazzling display on the red carpet comes as after she made a very different walk last weekend.

The model joined millions of people around the world protesting for women's rights and against new United States president, Donald Trump.

The brunette beauty posted multiple Instagram images from the march on the Capital, one in which she was holding a large placard.

Standing up: Another photo saw the Perth-born beauty holding a sign that read - Womens Rights, Black Rights, Trans Rights, Immigrant Rights Are Human Rights

The sign read: 'Your silence will not protect you.'

She captioned the black and white image: 'Woman's March today in #womansmarch #stayawake.'

Another photo saw the Perth-born beauty holding a sign that read: 'Womens Rights, Black Rights, Trans Rights, Immigrant Rights Are Human Rights.'

A third image showed her wearing a jacket with a proactive slogan at the Capital of Texas.

Worldwide: Nicole was far from alone as millions of people joined rallies around the world to protest against Donald Trump on his first day as US president

Nicole was far from alone as millions of people joined rallies around the world to protest against Donald Trump on his first day as US president.

The rally Nicole attended in Austin, Texas, was expected to be attended by 20,000 people, however, most rallies were more widely attended than original estimates.

Nicole lives in the United States with her husband, musician Gary Clark Jr, with the couple sharing a son Zion together.
She is currently in Hungary filming her new spy thriller Red Sparrow.

And Jennifer Lawrence took some well-deserved time out on Friday evening after shooting had wrapped up.

The 26-year-old natural beauty joined her pal Laura Simpson and director Francis Lawrence, enjoying an evening at an American Steakhouse.

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Effortless: Jennifer Lawrence flaunted her enviable bone structure as she appeared to go make-up free, layering up against the cold after filming in Hungary on Friday

Flaunting her enviable bone structure the Hunger Games star appeared to go make-up free, perhaps relieved to be out of costume while she was off-set.

With her blonde tresses tied off her face, she was seen arriving at the restaurant in a beanie, shearling coat, as well as a hat, scarf and gloves, warding off the chill.

Completing the ensemble with ripped jeans and casual boots, she oozed relaxed style.

Layering up: The 26-year-old natural beauty joined her pals for an evening at an American Steakhouse

Jennifer has thrown herself into her current role, for which she plays a Russian spy trying to seduce a rookie CIA operative.

The talented actress is said to be dating director Darren Aronofsky, 47, who shares a 10-year-old son Henry, with former fiancee Rachel Weisz.

The duo met when Aronofsky cast Lawrence in a leading role for his film Mother, due out later this year.

Filming finished in August last year and rumors about their romance started swirling in October when they were photographed together.

They seemingly confirmed their relationship after they were photographed kissing on a public street in New York.

Lawrence gushed about her new beau in a recent interview with Vanity Fair, describing the Black Swan director as 'a visionary.'

She revealed she'd long been a fan of his work and didn't hesitate to sign up to star in his movie Passengers even though there was no script for it at the time.
They've often endured speculation about their relationship in the press.

But it appears actress Cate Blanchett and husband Andrew Upton are as close as ever after a romantic public display of affection.

The 47-year-old Hollywood star was pictured on the streets of New York this week, blowing her beau a kiss and gazing at him adoringly as he headed off for the airport in a black SUV.

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Goodbye my lover! Hollywood star Cate Blanchett has blown a kiss to husband Andrew Upton as he headed to the airport in New York

The Australian actress looked incredibly smitten as she walk her husband of 19 years to his vehicle.

The mother-of-four smiled and held her hands clinched together beneath her chin as she looked on adoringly at Upton.

As the SUV pulled away from the kerb, an emotional Blanchett blew her husband a kiss before raising a hand and waving him goodbye.

Happy couple: Blanchett looked smitten as she helped walk her husband of 19 years to the car

Farewell! The 47-year-old looked as elegant as ever on the streets of New York as Upton headed off for the airport in a black SUV

Once he was in the car she waved with both hands, and then delightfully her fingers.

The Elizabeth star couldn't bare to look as her husband drove away, closing her eyes and turning away from the street as the SUV left the front of their hotel

The Oscar winner appeared makeup-free as she stood on the sidewalk with her husband.

Look of love: The actress clasped her hands beneath her chin as she watched her husband's car pull away

Emotional: The Elizabeth star couldn't bare to look as her husband drove away, closing her eyes and turning away from the street as the SUV left the front of their hotel

Looking typically elegant, she combined a dark vest and skirt with a plain white shirt.

The A-list celebrity rocked a relaxed look, stepping out with her hair tied up and in a pair of knee-high black leather boots.

At one stage, as the car pulled away from the kerb, Blanchett stepped out on to the busy road to ensure her husband saw her waving.

Stylish: Looking typically elegant, she combined a dark vest and skirt with a plain white shirt

Doting parents: Blanchett and Upton have three biological sons Dashiell, 15, Roman, 12 and Ignatius, eight. In 2015 they also adopted a daughter Edith, something they'd long planned

Leading lady: The Oscar winner appeared makeup-free as she stood on the sidewalk before later moving on to the road to bid Upton goodbye

Blanchett and Upton first met on the scene of a television show in 1996 and tied the knot just over a year later in December 1997.

The couple have three biological sons Dashiell, 15, Roman, 12 and Ignatius, eight and an adopted daughter Edith.

As the SUV carrying her husband drove off down the busy New York street, Blanchett held her left hand high in a prolonged wave, seemingly hoping her beau would see.

Loving: The mum-of-four smiled and held her hands clinched as she looked adoringly at Upton
She's the Aussie stunner who boasts an international modelling career.

But despite the glamorous title Jessica Hart has revealed that her job isn't as easy as it seems, coming with plenty of gruelling days and long flights.

The 30-year-old also confessed to Stellar magazine that she doesn't know how many bikinis she owns, but estimates that it must be at least 100.

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'We work really long days': Jessica Hart reveals pitfalls of modelling and admits to owning at least 100 bikinis

The model explained that despite the glamorous locations - she shot the latest Seafolly campaign on a yacht off Hamilton Island - there were pitfalls to the photo shoots.

'We have very early call times and work really long days. I mean, we start at 4.30 in the morning and finish at around 7pm,' Jessica said.

'Thats definitely the hardest part, especially on top of jet lag.'

Body of work: Since starring as the face of Seafolly, the model has gone onto to flaunt her physique for a number of big name brands

The leggy blonde, who first rose to fame as the winner of Dolly Magazine's model search in 2000, also quipped that she didn't know how many bikinis she owned.

She confessed to still having some swimsuits worn on her very first Seafolly photo shoot back in 2010.

'How many bikinis do I own? Oh god. I dont know. I literally still have Seafolly bikinis from the first time I shot with them. I dont get rid of many, so I have a lot  like at least 100,' Jessica said.

'At least 100': The leggy blonde, who first rose to fame as the winner of Dolly Magazine's model search in 2000, also quipped that she didn't know how many bikinis she owned

Since starring as the face of Seafolly, the model has gone onto to flaunt her physique for a number of big name brands, most recently lingerie label Triumph.

Jessica revealed to MailOnline earlier this month that modelling was often solitary work.

'I got scouted at 14 and thrown into the industry. I had to learn quickly. I had no idea what Vogue magazine was or Chanel,' she said.

'You've got to be a tough cookie': Jessica revealed to MailOnline earlier this month that modelling was often solitary work

'You've got to be a tough cookie. Can be a little lonely at times but ultimately the best experience. I've learnt so much. I couldn't imagine it any other way.'

Jessica grew up in Victoria, but is now based stateside in New York City for employment.

She has made a name for herself in the United States modelling for popular lingerie brand Victoria's Secret.
She gave one of her most candid chats to date with Ocean Drive magazine.

And Charlotte McKinney let loose on Friday night after the interview was published, dining out with friends at Catch Restaurant in West Hollywood.

The 23-year-old model, who shockingly confessed she was called a 's**t' because of her ample cleavage, kept covered up in a clingy dress.

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Glamorous: Charlotte McKinney let loose on Friday night after the interview was published, dining out with friends at Catch Restaurant in West Hollywood

The bodycon number boasted a high neckline and a metallic sheen, highlighting her slender legs.

The striking star wore her blonde locks up in a loose ponytail, setting off her look with pale lipstick.

She added some extra height to her look with a simple pair of nude sandals.

Thigh's the limit: The 23-year-old model made the most of her slender legs in her minidress

Blonde bombshell: The striking star wore her blonde locks up in a loose ponytail, setting off her look with pale lipstick

Looking good: The bodycon number boasted a high neckline and a metallic sheen, highlighting her slender legs

Her outing comes after comes after Charlotte revealed she was ferociously bullied about her famous curves and even struggled to find work because of them.

The star may have proven her haters wrong but she still has a love hate relationship with her much celebrated chest - so much so that she is not ruling out surgical intervention.

On the eve of the two year anniversary since the model, and her bustline, burst onto the scene during the 2015 Super Bowl, the blonde has spoken of how her shape has both helped and hindered her journey to stardom.

Charlotte told the magazine: 'A lot of my friends were guys, and I was called a s**t by a lot of people.

Slightly sheer: The material of her dress boasted a slightly sheer quality to it

All natural: The star told Ocean's Drive, 'A lot of my friends were guys, and I was called a s**t by a lot of people'

The blonde beauty dropped out of school at 17 as she struggled academically and also socially as the target of mean girls.

'Girls would yell at me and call me a ''s**t.'' I would go to parties and get beer thrown on my head - there was so much bullying.

Charlotte said this coupled with severe dyslexia made school near impossible.

While she may have dropped out, the soon-to-be Baywatch babe always had a direction and that was modelling.

It took others especially big agencies, a little while longer to realize her potential.

Breakout role: Using Instagram as a platform and staying determined, Charlotte eventually landed her dream job at Guess and also the Carl's Jr. commercial which celebrated her natural chest and made her a household name

Using Instagram as a platform and staying determined, Charlotte eventually landed her dream job at Guess and also the Carl's Jr. commercial which celebrated her natural chest and saw her become a household name.

But while they have become her trademark, Charlotte said after a decade of being the girl with a big chest she may consider reducing her breasts.

Charlotte will be on the big screen this May in the Baywatch reboot and is also in Mad Families opposite Charlie Sheen, who she described as 'so healthy and so vibrant'.

Baywatch is in theatres May 26 and also stars Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson and Zac Efron.
She stars in Modern Family and he found fame in True Blood, Magic Mike and Spiderman.

And Sofia Vergara and Joe Manganiello looked every inch the Hollywood couple as they headed for a date night on Friday.

The 44-year-old Colombian beauty and her 40-year-old beau enjoyed a quiet dinner for two at YU/MI Sushi restaurant in Beverly Hills.

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Power couple! Sofia Vergara and Joe Manganiello looked every inch the Hollywood couple as they headed for a date night on Friday

Showing off her model figure, the mother-of-one accentuated her long lean limbs in ripped figure-hugging jeans.

Making the most of her toned midriff and womanly curves, she teamed them with an understated but elegant black poloneck.

And elongating her statuesque frame, she dressed the ensemble up with platform killer heels and a long tan coat.

With her brunette tresses perfectly blow-dried, she added a bold red lip and beamed a she held Joe's hand.

Date night! The 44-year-old Colombian beauty and her 40-year-old beau enjoyed a quiet dinner for two at YU/MI Sushi restaurant in Beverly Hills

The duo recently posed on the cover of Hola! magazine to open up about their romance after marrying in 2015.

Sofia, who was previously wed to her high school sweetheart Joe Gonzalez with whom she shares a son Manolo, born in 1992 when she was 20, said:'We enjoy our privacy, but we have the best fans in the world and we know it makes them happy to see us happy and in love.'

The Latin beauty told the magazine why she waited until her son, now 24, went to college before moving in with a man.

'Special time': Sofia Vergara and Joe Manganiello are on the cover of Hola! magazine and inside they gush about how in love and happy they are and how they want to share it with fans

'Partly because I hadnt found the right person and I knew that if I moved in with someone, it would have a psychological effect on my son. I wasnt going to bring a man into my sons home,' she said.

As for why the couple got engaged so soon into their relationship, Joe revealed: 'We realized very early on that we each had to put the other persons happiness and well being head of our own. Once you realize that kind that kind of trust has manifested, you hang on for dear life. Or in my case, you go and buy a ring.'

Sofia's role on Modern Family was a groundbreaking one when the sitcom first came on the air in September 2009.

But she has also come in for criticism from some who object to her character because they consider her to be a stereotype of Latin women.

'Whats wrong with being a stereotype?' Sofia countered. 'Glorias character is inspired by my mom and my aunt. They are both Latin women who grew up in Colombia, like me. They love color, prints and shoes'

She added: 'It upsets me when Latinos complain about Gloria. I am grateful for the opportunity because the gringos have let me in with this strong accent I have. Eight years ago nobody had an accent like this on television.'
Some people head to Costa Rica for the wildlife and hikes.

But for Kylie Jenner it has been all about the bikini selfie, so far.

The 19-year-old reality television star shared her sexiest selfie yet, on Saturday, as she showcased her curves in a teeny string two-piece.

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Revealing: Kylie Jenner shared her sexiest selfie yet, on Saturday, as she showcased her curves in a teeny string two-piece

Never knowingly un-logoed, the make-up entrepreneur looked very busty in the skimpy Louis Vuitton red and black bikini.

The 19-year-old's hourglass figure, slim waist and shapely hips were on show in the mirror picture.

She shared a second shot, which gave a generous glimpse of her cleavage.

Sexy: Never knowingly un-logoed, the make-up entrepreneur looked very busty in the skimpy Louis Vuitton red and black bikini

On Friday she marked the start of her trip by posing in her smalls on Snapchat.

She flaunted her figure in a revealing grey underwear set in the mirror.

She's away with boyfriend Tyga and Tyga's son King Cairo, four, from his relationship with Blac Chyna.

Mirror selfie: On Friday she marked the start of her trip by posing in her smalls on Snapchat

Blac now has a daughter with Kylie's half brother Rob Kardashian.

Kylie and Tyga are on vacay with her momager Kris Jenner, sisters Kourtney and Kim and her children North and Saint in Costa Rica.

Cameras for the family's reality show Keeping Up With The Kardashians are following the group around, as they film the next season of the ever-popular show.

Her sister: Kim Kardashian showed off her chest too on the trip

And another one: Khloe Kardashian was into flaunting her curves as well as she posed with Kourtney's youngest son Reign

All woman: The reality star is far past her teen years as she is not afraid to show her fans what she is made of on social media. Here she is on Instagram on Saturday
Kim Kardashian has been covering up in oversized flannel shirts while walking around chilly Los Angeles during the past few weeks.

But the Keeping Up With The Kardashians standout is finally showing some skin.

The wife of Kanye West modeled nothing but a low cut black tank top during a Snapchat session with kids North West and Saint from her trip to Costa Rica.

Hello! Kim Kardashian modeled nothing but a low cut black tank top during a Snapchat session with kids North West and Saint from her trip to Costa Rica

Like a Playboy bunny, but not: Kim chose a rabbit filter with fuzzy ears and a pink nose and whiskers

Kim chose a rabbit filter with fuzzy ears and a pink nose and whiskers.

The star seemed to be enjoying her animal filter as she kept the camera on her famous mug for quite some time.

Also in on the fun was her two children with the Yeezy rapper: North, aged three and Saint, aged one.

Look at me! The star seemed to be enjoying her animal filter as she kept the camera on her famous mug for quite some time

North looked cute in her filter, which was the same as her mom's.

The little Keeping Up With The Kardashians guest star is a natural with the camera, gazing softy into the lens.

She had on a pink and purple top.

Also there was Saint, who wore a white onesie.

Her little star: North looked cute in her filter, which was the same as her mom's. The little Keeping Up With The Kardashians guest star is a natural with the camera, gazing into the lens

The next Yeezy: Also there was Saint, who wore a white onesie

He is already walking: Saint has been taking a few steps here and there at home

The family looked to be staying in a home.

The colors were a neutrals with a white sofa and dark beige carpeting as well as a wood coffee table.

Also there was sister Khloe, who wore a white tank top and also had a filter. She was playing with Kourtney's son Reign.

Reign wore a grey top and gold chain like father Scott Disick.

Kim was seen flying out of LA on Friday on her way to the vacation.

Another low-cut top: Also there was sister Khloe, who wore a white tank top and also had a filter. She was playing with Kourtney's son Reign
Saffron Burrows, 44, has had her baby girl.

The Law & Order: Criminal Intent star welcomed daughter Daisy Alice Winnie Balian-Burrows with wife Alison Balian.

The child was born on January 23, according to E! News. Together the couple already have a son.

Another child: Saffron Burrows has had her baby girl. The Law & Order: Criminal Intent star welcomed daughter Daisy Alice Winnie Balian-Burrows with wife Alison Balian. Pictured January 8 at the Golden Globes

The Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. star announced her pregnancy in September.

The star showed off her bump at the premiere of Bridget Jones's Baby at the Paris Theatre.

Saffron and Alison, who are also parents to a son, have tried to keep their family life relatively private in recent years.

Her woman: The child was born on January 23, according to E! News. Together the couple already have a son. Pictured 2014

Burrows has been quiet about her personal life in recent years.

'I chose to speak to you because I don't want to lie by omission and I want to be very straightforward about my life,' Saffron told writer Hermione Hoby in The Guardian.

'I don't want to hesitate and feel hindered by something I haven't said. Also, I'm really proud of my family and who they are, these two individuals beside me. That's certainly my proudest achievement. And for my boy, I want to be honest with him because he deserves itbut also proud.'

Honest lady: Burrows has been quiet about her personal life in recent years. 'I chose to speak to you because I don't want to lie by omission and I want to be very straightforward about my life,' Saffron told writer Hermione Hoby in The Guardian. Pictured 2015

She continued, 'And I want us to live a very honest life with each other. I think for a while I was just avoiding conversations, in order to not be labeled in some way that I felt was limiting and not actually true to who I am.'

She started modeling at 15 and has since had a long career in TV with a turn on Boston Legal.

The 6ft tall star has also appeared in movies like Troy with Brad Pitt.
Sexually charged and boasting two protagonists with a penchant for dangerous liaisons in the most unlikely locations, BBC1s compelling new Sunday night drama Apple Tree Yard  back on tomorrow at 9pm  has left its six million viewers feeling a little hot under the collar.

And all with scarcely a square inch of exposed flesh. But as the drama unfolds and the mood turns sinister, there are many questions that remain unanswered.

Is there really a broom cupboard in the Palace of Westminster? Where is Apple Tree Yard? And where does Yvonne, played by Emily Watson, 50, get those pashminas? The Mail on Sunday spoke to the shows creators to get to the naked truth...

The BBC's new thriller, Apple Tree Yard, which airs again tomorrow at 9pm, has left its six million viewers feeling hot under the collar writes Katie Hind

The lovers' lane - but don't expect privacy!

This unremarkable looking alleyway behind Jermyn Street in Mayfair featured in Louise Doughty's 2012 novel, Apple Tree Yard

When Louise Doughty wrote her novel in 2012, Apple Tree Yard, was a little-known alleyway behind Jermyn Street in Mayfair.

Since then, it has been at the centre of a major redevelopment  complete with CCTV cameras and gangs of builders.

The work forced producers to find a similar alleyway in the City, left, to film the al fresco scenes.

According to security guards in the original Apple Tree Yard, some couples have made intimate pilgrimages to the site.

Ms Doughty says: Anyone enthusiastic about risky sex might be advised to wait a bit, not just until the weather has warmed up.

The mystery man who is melting hearts

With his slicked-back hair and piercing eyes, Ben Chaplin  who plays the mysterious Mark Costley  has prompted a swoon-fest among housewives. Alas, dear readers, the 47-year-old is off the market after marrying long-term girlfriend Rocio Oliver last summer. If the chemistry between Chaplin, right, and Watson is convincing, thats because they have worked together on two films before  The Water Horse and Little Boy. Watson is said by producers to feel comfortable about their explicit scenes.

Ben Chaplin as the mysterious Mark Costley in the BBC's new thriller has had housewives hearts racing, writes Katie Hind

Dressed up... for a night of pashmina

Like many sophisticated women of a certain age, Yvonne brightens up her sober coats with an eclectic collection of pashminas, sourced by Ray Holman, the man behind her smart yet sexy wardrobe. The acclaimed costume designer, whose previous credits include Broadchurch, bought Yvonnes black silk scarf with a red and orange pattern  the one she claims to have lost in Westminster  during a trip to New Yorks Metropolitan Museum of Art. He bought the turquoise one, left, while travelling around India.

Emily Watson as Yvonne who wears an eclectic collection of pashminas sourced by Ray Holman

Caff that's brewed up a starring role

It might look like a humble greasy spoon, but the Regency Cafe, right, is barely off our screens. Located near Westminster Abbey, it has appeared in BBC dramas including Rescue Me, Judge John Deed and London Spy. Well-known for its magnificent full English breakfasts and steaming cups of Rosie Lee, it also featured in the films Layer Cake, Pride and Brighton Rock. Viewers saw Yvonne and Mark meet there by accident but the couple managed to avoid Tory MP Andrew Mitchell, who is a regular there.

Regency Cafe, near Westminster Abbey, has played a key role in a number of films and series such as Layer Cake, Pride and Judge John Deed. It features in Apple Tree Yard as the place where Yvonne and Mark meet by accident

Rape scene that took weeks of research

The rape scene at the end of the first episode changed the direction of Apple Tree Yard. After several furtive encounters with her lover, Yvonne was brutally raped by colleague George, played by Steven Elder. It was, according to on-set sources, an immensely researched subject. The actors spent weeks with rape charities to ensure they projected the incident correctly and sensitively. A lot of thought was put into the casting of Elder, too. Producers didnt want someone who was too well known to take the role.

The moment Yvonne is raped by her colleague George, played by Steven Elder, changed the direction of Apple Tree Yard, writes Katie Hind

And it's all about to get very dark

Things are set to get grim for Yvonne.

The book is billed as a psychological thriller, and weve seen Yvonne arriving at court in a police van.

With three episodes left, theres a lot more of Yvonne to be seen.

Louise Doughty gives little away, saying: I hope those who persist with it will feel her recklessness is not only out of character, but receives a level of punishment out of all proportion. What could she possibly mean?

With three episodes of the series left things are about to get even more intense for main character Yvonne, pictured

Now where have we seen you before?

Spare a thought for Mark Bonnar, who plays Gary, Yvonnes unsuspecting husband. Mind you, he should have recognised the signs  his previous role in the Channel 4 comedy Catastrophe saw him play Chris, who was cheated on by wife Fran, played by Ashley Jensen.

Scotsman Bonnar has also appeared in New Blood, Unforgotten and hospital drama Casualty. His on-screen son Adam, portrayed by Jack Hamilton, has enjoyed a modicum of success on the other side of the Atlantic, starring in popular horror series Penny Dreadful.

Mark Bonnar plays Gary (pictured) Yvonne's unsuspecting husband. You may recognise Bonnar from roles in Channel 4 series Catastrophe, New Blood and Casualty

Why show is no small affair for adulterers

What do you get when you create a television series with two married, middle-aged people getting up to what can only be described as no good? A craze, of course.

Illicit Encounters  Britains biggest affair website  claims it has seen a 42 per cent spike in membership since Apple Tree Yard was first broadcast last Sunday.

Many are using noms damour from the show. They range from the rather obvious Apple Tree Yard to the more imaginative A Costley Affair (Costley is the surname of Ben Chaplins character), and Mark Bonnar  the real name of the actor who plays Yvonnes husband. We can only assume they havent read the ending...

Thriller that came out of the closet

A visit to the Houses of Parliament gave Apple Tree Yard novelist Louise Doughty what she describes as the light bulb moment.

Inside a tiny cupboard in the Chapel of St Mary Undercroft, there is a tiny plaque that records the fact that suffragette Emily Wilding Davison hid there on the night of the 1911 census so she could declare her home as the Commons.

Its a magical place, says Doughty. Hidden, mysterious, a cave full of secrets. The irony of such a woman [Yvonne], a top scientist, committing such an act of folly up against a plaque to a feminist heroine was, I can assure you, not lost on me.

The Westminster authorities refused to give permission to film the tryst between Yvonne and Mark Costley, right, in the real cupboard  so a replica was built at a studio in Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire.
His girlfriend Megan McKenna was pictured in floods of tears after the pair had a blazing row at the National Television Awards on Wednesday.

But Pete Wicks appeared quite blase about the drama on Saturday night, as he revealed he was enjoying a boozy night out in Scotland - without his girl.

The TOWIE star did not seem bothered by his romantic issues with the brunette, 24, as he shared a saucy shirtless selfie from his hotel with fans on Instagram.

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Not bothered: Pete Wicks appeared blase towards his relationship drama on Saturday night, as he revealed he was enjoying a boozy night out in Scotland - without girlfriend Megan McKenna

The reality star gave a raunchy glimpse of his heavily tattooed body as he posed in nothing but a silver necklace for the revealing snap.

Further implying his carefree attitude, Pete then pulled a funny face towards the camera as he prepared for his evening - showing no signs of strain from the stormy state of his relationship.

Clearly ready for a big night out after a dramatic week, the long-haired hunk captioned the shot: 'Saturday night chills before a few more drinks in Scotland...'

Get me out of here: Pete had also uploaded a snap of him 'airport bound' on Friday - implying he was wasting no time in escaping the drama

His boozy weekend comes just days after he fuelled rumours of a split with girlfriend Megan - when the brunette was seen in floods of tears after the NTAs.

The star was pictured sobbing hysterically and holding her head in her hands as she headed home from London's O2 Arena, after a supposed fall out with Pete.

The TOWIE star struggled to control her emotions as Pete snubbed her on his way out of the venue.

Emotional: Megan was pictured leaving London's O2 after the National Television Awards on Wednesday in floods of tears after an argument with boyfriend Pete

The stony-faced hunk reportedly ignored her cries of 'Pete!', and instead strode past her and disappeared into the night.

The tattooed star kept his face down, talking on the phone as he walked past his upset girlfriend.

Megan had to be consoled by her companion, who attempted to reassure her before leading her home.

She has since deleted her latest post about Pete and unfollowed the star on Instagram.

Devastated: Just days after her upset at the NTAs, a fragile Megan McKenna went into further meltdown due to online trolls on Friday

After becoming teary-eyed on Wednesday, a seemingly troubled Megan endured a further meltdown on Twitter on Friday - at the hands of online trolls.

Lashing out at comments regarding her relationship with Pete, the reality star took to the social media site to declare she was being 'bullied' and 'harassed'.

The feisty Essex girl defiantly declared she was 'strong enough' to ignore the bullies, but pondered why some people believe it is OK to attack her because of her celebrity status.

Taking some flack? Lashing out at comments regarding her relationship with Pete, the reality star, 24, took to Twitter on Friday, declaring she was being 'bullied' and 'harassed'

Don't let them win: Having posted a series of sultry snaps and videos to her Instagram hours earlier, the feisty Essex girl defiantly declared she was 'strong enough' to ignore the bullies

Strong: Her online rage against trolls came just hours after Megan appeared to be very much back in business, posting a sultry Instagram video of herself midway through a promo shoot

'Why do people on Instagram think it's ok to cyber bully me just because I'm in the public eye?' she asked during the rant.

Though it seemed that she was more concerned about other people receiving the same treatment, as she signed off:

'Thank god I take no notice & im strong enough to see all that rubbish... but some people arnt [sic].

'Surely this should be a crime to harass and cyber bully someone. In the public eye or not. Everyone's the same... [sic]'

Taking the plunge: Megan showed off her considerable assets in a Snapchat video of her promotional shoot

Make me beautiful: There was no sign of Megan's earlier row with Pete

Before adding: 'That's why I'm thankful for all my amazing fans who defend me without me even having to say anything!'

Her online rage against trolls came just hours after Megan appeared to be very much back in business, posting a sultry Instagram video of herself midway through a promo shoot.

The reality star looked stunning in a low cut white leotard as she put on a brave face after her fight with Pete to promote her mouthybymegan cosmetics range.

Fuming: Megan and Pete's relationship appeared to be in trouble once again

Fuming: Megan graced the red carpet earlier in the evening on the arm of her tuxedo-clad boyfriend, where she looked sensational in a stunning red two-piece

The couple's chequered romance spins a convoluted tale, with their love starting in March last year when she first joined the ITVBe show, following her stints on Ex On The Beach and Celebrity Big Brother.

Megan's world was then rocked in September last year when Pete's former flame Jacqui Ryland revealed he had been sending her explicit text messages while they were together.

Megan and Pete's relationship suffered the blow when co-star Danielle Armstrong dropped the bombshell on the former EOTB star - revealing the tattooed hunk's naughty activities.

Lost love: After blissfully bobbing along, Megan's world was rocked when Pete's former flame Jacqui Ryland came forward to reveal he had been sending her explicit messages while they were together

Despite previously harking about Pete's ability to calm down her fiery temperament, the beauty showed her boyfriend the entirety of her wrath as she screamed at him on a Marbella beach while filming the TOWIE summer special that day.

In shock at the discovery, the inked-up hunk made his way back to Essex where he was comforted by his best pal James Lock after he broke down over his behaviour and expressed huge regret over his actions.

Hurt and humiliated, Megan returned to her native county where she was comforted by her sister Millie before Pete arrived at her flat in an attempt at reconciliation.

While the alleged philanderer appeared to be seeking forgiveness, Megan was only prepared to launch a furious tirade at her boyfriend who she screamed at during a sit down on her sofa.

The truth comes out: Megan and Pete's relationship first hit the rocks when co-star Danielle Armstrong dropped a bombshell on the former EOTB star, in which she revealed the tattooed hunk's extra-curricular activities

Not forgiven and not forgotten: While the alleged philanderer appeared to be seeking forgiveness, Megan was only prepared to launch a furious tirade at her boyfriend who she screamed at during a sit down on her sofa

All well? The couple appeared happier than ever at the start of the night

Not again... When Megan discovered the news of the sexts she was seen shaking her Rolex birthday gift in the TV hunk's face, saying it had 'guilt written all over it'

When Megan discovered the news of the sexts she was seen shaking her Rolex birthday gift in the TV hunk's face, saying it had 'guilt written all over it'.

'I dont even want to f***ing hear your voice,' the television favourite shouted in her boyfriend's face. Pete made minimal attempts to explain himself as the raging brunette confronted him by the side of the pool.

'You've been telling this girl you want to be single - go and be f**king single then,' she said to him, after discovering that he had been in touch with ex-girlfriend Jacqui, 26.

However, the pair then reconciled in the TOWIE Christmas special, and had been putting on a united front until the dramatic award show incident - leaving the state of their relationship hanging in the balance.
They were rumoured to be romantically linked after a series of very flirty social media post.

And despite proclamations that they are just friends, both Vogue Williams and Spencer Matthews looked to be getting cosy on the slopes of Innsbruck, Austria.

The Jump contestants were almost inseparable as they hitched a ride up the mountain together, where they stayed close to each other as they practiced the terrifying ski jump.

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Close friends? Despite proclamations that they are just friends, both Vogue Williams and Spencer Matthews looked to be getting cosy on the slopes of Innsbruck, Austria

Heading up the mountain on Saturday for a practice session ahead of the show's kick-off next Sunday, the two celebrities appeared to be enjoying each other's company.

Sharing a ride up to the top of the slopes on a special quad bike, Spencer and Vogue were seen deep in conversation.

Leaning close to the Irish model and TV presenter, 31, the former Made In Chelsea lothario, 27, looked to doing his best to entertain the blonde beauty.

Cosy: The Jump contestants were almost inseparable as they hitched a ride up the mountain together, where they stayed close to each other as they practiced the terrifying ski jump

Inseparable: Heading up the mountain on Saturday for a practice session ahead of the show's kick-off next Sunday, the two celebrities appeared to be enjoying each other's company

Smiling as Spencer chatted away, Vogue certainly appeared to be enjoying her company.

Clad in their black snowsuits and ski helmets and goggles, the two looked to be attempting a run down the fearsome ski jump from which the show takes it name.

Apparently unperturbed by the risk of injury, Spencer and Vogue were lost deep in conversation.

Ride with me: Sharing a ride up to the top of the slopes on a special quad bike, Spencer and Vogue were seen deep in conversation

Enamoured? Leaning in close to the Irish model and TV presenter, 31, the former Made In Chelsea lothario, 27, looked to doing his best to entertain the blonde beauty

Great guy? Smiling as Spencer chatted away, Vogue certainly appeared to be enjoying her company

Just the two of them: Clad in their black snowsuits and ski helmets and goggles, the two looked to be attempting a run down the fearsome ski jump from which the show takes it name

Arriving at their destination, the duo were almost inseperable throughout their time on the mountain.

Keeping close to each other as they awaited the all-clear to ascend the ski jump, both Spencer and Vogue appeared keen to keep the banter flowing.

Laughing and joking with members of the crew, the pair kept close to each other as they waited their turn on the ski jump.

Sticking together: Arriving at their destination, the duo were almost inseperable throughout their time on the mountain

Banter: Keeping close to each other as they awaited the all-clear to ascend the ski jump, both Spencer and Vogue appeared keen to keep the banter flowing

Don't forget me: Laughing and joking with members of the crew, the pair kept close to each other as they waited their turn on the ski jump

It looked as though Spencer had thoroughly enjoyed his time on the slopes with Vogue, as he shared some shots of his day on Instagram.

'Competition heating up out here on #TheJump... Time for the bandanas to make an appearance. @channel4,' wrote the casanova as he shared a grinning selfie.

And seemingly excited about the prospect of competing on the actual ski jump, he gave his followers a look at the jump itself, captioning the snap:

'This is where it's all happening guys!!! Make sure to tune in for the first show next Sunday the 5th of Feb... @channel4 #TheJump.'

Just competative chums: Despite Spencer and Vogue's cosy relationship, it would appear that romance is firmly off-the-cards for the Irish girl

'Competition heating up out here on #TheJump... Time for the bandanas to make an appearance. @channel4,' wrote the casanova as he shared a grinning selfie

A jump with a view? He shared another snap, writing: 'This is where it's all happening guys!!! Make sure to tune in for the first show next Sunday the 5th of Feb... @channel4 #TheJump.'

But despite Spencer and Vogue's cosy relationship, it would appear that romance is firmly off-the-cards for the Irish girl.

As she put paid to rumours of a budding relationship between herself and Spencer during a chat with MailOnline.

Speaking ahead of undertaken hosting duties at The Unislim Gossies 2017, she spilled the beans on love, new friendships and her fear of The Jump.

Opening up about the intrigue into her personal life, the Dublin beauty insisted she's content being single, despite already being linked to 'best friend' Spencer - who is reported to have split from girlfriend Morgane Robart in December.

She said: 'People always try to link me, they already have. I suppose it goes with the territory. I suppose it's because Im single and I'm quite happily single that maybe people find that a bit weird.

'It's not like Im not looking to go out with anyone. It's just that, I'm really happy in my own space and whatever comes, comes. Right now, I'm single.'
She was one of the hottest Aussie models of the 1990s, but in recent years Kate Fischer has become a recluse.

That's set to change as the 43-year-old, who now goes by the name Tzipporah Malka bat Israel, is coming out of hiding to drop 20 pounds thanks to a magazine deal.

According to a report, the former model will lose 20 kilos with the help of a nutritionist and a personal trainer and document the results in New Idea magazine.

Out of hiding: According to reports the former model will lose 20 kilos with the help of a nutritionist and a personal trainer and document the results in New Idea magazine

The Sydney Morning Herald story alleges that Kate has 'signed a deal' to shed the weight and will be paid for her efforts.

Her results will be documented in a spread in the women's weekly at a date as yet unknown.

Kate's representative Max Markson didn't confirm the arrangement however he commented to Daily Mail Australia that, 'Tziporah's weight loss story is exclusive to New Idea.'

New Idea also recently published flattering photos of the Adelaide born beauty wearing lingerie.

Kate has been very open about her struggles with weight gain, referring to herself as 'morbidly obese'and fearing she may die before her time.

Back to her best: Kate has been very open about her struggles with weight gain, referring to herself as 'morbidly obese'and fearing she may die before her time

In November last year, she revealed she tipped the scales at over 118 kilos and knew she had to lose weight or face health concerns.

'I'm going to lose at least 20kg, hopefully much more. I'm way too heavy and it's time to trim down,' the one-time fiance of James Packer told New Idea.

She added, 'This is doctor's orders  he says I'm morbidly obese. My blood pressure is way too high and I'm likely to die prematurely unless I lose weight.

In her hey-day: 'I'm going to lose at least 20kg, hopefully much more. I'm way too heavy and it's time to trim down,' the one-time fiance of James Packer told New Idea

Kate minced no words, admitting her life was in danger at her current weight, adding, 'My life depends on this. I'm ready!'

The former runway star admitted her weight issues were due to treating herself to vodka, wine and cheese to unwind, a habit she often 'felt really down about'.

Once a high profile celebrity, Kate now lives a quiet life in an apartment in Melbourne, works in an aged care home studies Yiddish.

She changed her name to TZiporah Malka bat Israel after converting to Judaism.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Tzipporah Malka bat Israel's representatives for comment.
They've only just returned from one sun-soaked break abroad.

But it seems that Georgia May Foote and boyfriend George Alsford have fled the wintry weather in the UK once more, jetting off to California for a romantic trip.

Heading to the beach in Los Angeles, the actress, 25, and the model, 26, could barely keep their hands off each other as they enjoyed a PDA-heavy frolic by the sea.

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Fun in the sun: It seems that Georgia May Foote and boyfriend George Alsford have fled the wintry weather in the UK once more, jetting off to California for a romantic trip

Georgia, who came in second place on 2015's Strictly Come Dancing, looked utterly content with life as she and George strolled beside the sea.

The couple didn't look to be too enamoured with the scenery, however, as they could barely tear their eyes off of each other during their trip to the Malibu coastline.

Not content with lingering glances and flirty conversation, George scooped the former Coronation Street star up into a very cheeky embrace.

Getting a grip on things? Heading to the beach in Los Angeles, the actress, 25, and the model, 26, could barely keep their hands off each other as they enjoyed a PDA-heavy frolic by the sea

Reciprocating her boyfriend's affectionate overtures, Georgia wrapped her arms around her beau's neck.

And, later on during their beachside date, the couple enjoyed a passionate kiss as the waves crashed onto the shoreline mere feet from them.

Feeling very much at home on the West Coast, Georgia looked every inch the laid-back, beachy babe.

Beachy babe: Georgia, who came in second place on 2015's Strictly Come Dancing, looked utterly content with life as she and George strolled beside the sea.

The couple didn't look to be too enamoured with the scenery, however, as they could barely tear their eyes off of each other during their trip to the Malibu coastline

Touchy feely: The couple put on a very cosy display on the beach

Not content with lingering glances and flirty conversation, George scooped the former Coronation Street star up into a very cheeky embrace

Flaunting her tanned and toned legs, the Northern beauty wore a thigh-skimming blue plaid shirt dress, which featured button-up detailing.

She went barefoot on the beach, and only decided to accessorise her look with a pair of classic aviator sunglasses.

Wearing her tousled brunette locks loose and down past her shoulders, the former Waterloo Road star let her chestnut mane frame her face.

Feeling very much at home on the West Coast, Georgia looked every inch the laid-back, beachy babe

Flaunting her tanned and toned legs, the Northern beauty wore a thigh-skimming blue plaid shirt dress, which featured button-up detailing

She went barefoot on the beach, and only decided to accessorise her look with a pair of classic aviator sunglasses

Happy times: Georgia and George, who were first linked in October, have been keen to share some precious moments from their trip to the West Coast

Her beau: Georgia has been inundating Instagram with sunny snaps of both George and herself

Pert posterior: Georgia showed off her stunning figure in the short shirt

Opting for a minimal amount of make-up, Georgia let her natural looks shine through.

George meanwhile opted to go shirtless and showcase his washboard abs, casually draping a white t-shirt around his neck.

The chiseled model wore a pair of bootcut jeans, but like his girlfriend decided to go barefoot in the sand.

Georgia and George, who were first linked in October, have been keen to share some precious moments from their trip to the West Coast - with Georgia inundating Instagram with sunny snaps.

Their trip to America comes just days after they flew back from another sunny holiday, which saw them lounging by the pool and sea for the best part of two weeks.
The US refugee program, a lifeline for thousands

The US refugee resettlement program that President Donald Trump suspended has long been the world's most generous source of sanctuary for victims of conflict.

A week after taking office, citing the supposed threat of violent extremists hidden among Muslim refugee arrivals, Trump halted the program for at least 120 days.

Even if the program is revived in some form after this period, this will dramatically curtail the world's humanitarian effort to resettle vulnerable refugees.

In fiscal 2016 the US admitted 84,994 refugees and so far this fiscal year another 25,671 have come fleeing extremist violence and civil war in Syria, Yemen and Libya Frederic J. BROWN (AFP/File)

In 2015, the United States alone was responsible for allowing in and finding homes for 64 percent of those referred to world governments by the UN High Commissioner for Refugees.

Under President Barack Obama in the 2016 US fiscal year -- which ran from October 1, 2015 to September 30, 2016 -- the United States admitted 84,994 refugees from around the world.

And already in this fiscal year, another 25,671 have come, as US officials raced to cope with large numbers fleeing extremist violence and civil war in Syria, Yemen and Libya.

Before leaving office, Obama set a target of 110,000 admissions in the 2017 fiscal year that ends on September 30. Trump's order slashes that figure to 50,000.

In its last report to Congress on the subject, the Obama administration said it expected to have just over $1.5 billion to spend on the refugee program in the 2017 fiscal year.

New resettlements did not stop when Trump, who had harsh words for the program on the campaign trail last year, came to office on January 20 and began drawing up executive orders.

In fact, in the single week since Inauguration Day, the United States resettled 2,089 people.

Crucially, many of these come from countries that Trump's administration has singled out for special scrutiny: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

- Extreme vetting -

The new administration claims that these mainly Muslim and in some cases unstable nations could be a source of extremist infiltration.

But in fact, no refugee who passed through the resettlement program -- which involves a thorough investigation by US authorities -- has ever been convicted of a terrorist crime.

In addition to facing the same suspension in the refugee program as citizens of other states, would-be visitors or immigrants from these countries will not be allowed to seek visas during a 90-day period.

During this time, Trump has ordered senior staff to conduct a review of security procedures for migrants, visitors and refugees with a view to imposing "extreme vetting" on future applicants.

Pro-Trump media such as the nationalist site Breitbart, formerly run by the president's chief of strategy Steve Bannon, have criticized the State Department for continuing to welcome new arrivals.
Rich? Scared about the Trumpocalypse? Try New Zealand

The elevation of an unpredictable billionaire to the helm of nuclear-armed America has given fresh impetus to the idea of remote New Zealand as a bulwark for civilisation in the event of a global catastrophe.

The idea has pedigree -- British science fiction writer John Wyndham's 1955 novel "The Chrysalids" describes a post-apocalyptic landscape where Zealand (or Sealand) is the only place that has not sunk into barbarity.

The fictional Zealand escaped the holocaust because it was "somewhat secluded" and it seems that, in uncertain times, the real New Zealand is attracting interest for the same reason.

About 17,000 Americans have joined rich-listers from around the world in registering interest in moving to secluded New Zealand WILLIAM WEST (AFP/File)

"The world is heading into a major crisis," German-born internet mogul and alleged online piracy kingpin Kim Dotcom tweeted late last year.

"I saw it coming and that's why we moved to New Zealand. Far away & not on any nuclear target list."

After Trump's election in November, about 17,000 Americans registered interest online in moving to New Zealand, a 13-fold increase on regular levels.

Immigration New Zealand also reported a spike in inquiries from Britain after the Brexit vote.

Just last week it emerged that tech titan Peter Thiel, one of Trump's strongest supporters, quietly obtained New Zealand citizenship in 2011 and owns several properties in the South Pacific nation.

Other rich-listers who have either moved to New Zealand or bought land include Hollywood director James Cameron, Russian steel magnate Alexander Abramov and US financial services guru William Foley.

One of China's wealthiest executives, Jack Ma, said last year that at least 20 former colleagues from his Alibaba empire had retired to New Zealand and he was considering purchasing a property himself.

The nation of 4.5 million people is nestled deep in the South Pacific Ocean, some 2,000 kilometres (1,250 miles) from Australia.

It is prosperous, has spectacular landscapes and Transparency International rates it the least corrupt country in the world, alongside Denmark.

The New Yorker magazine this month reported it had become the refuge of choice for ultra-rich Americans looking for a bolthole if Trump's presidency goes disastrously wrong.

Peter Campbell of high-end construction firm Triple Star Management said wealthy Americans wanted helipads in their luxury escapes, but not necessarily underground shelters.

"Its not like you need to build a bunker under your front lawn, because youre several thousand miles away from the White House," he told the magazine.

- 'Sign of success?' -

Apocalyptic anxieties will have been heightened Thursday after the symbolic "Doomsday Clock" was moved 30 seconds closer to midnight on the strength of Trump's comments about nuclear weapons and climate change.

The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists set it at two-and-a-half minutes to midnight, the closest it has been since the height of the Cold War in 1953.

In such a troubled world, New Zealand Prime Minister Bill English has said he can see why his country's political stability and strong economy were attractive.

"Around the world now there's quite a lot of anxiety because there's so much uncertainty, whether it's in Europe or the UK or the US," he said.

"So I'd expect there would be demand for people to come to New Zealand. That's a measure of success."

New Zealand actively encourages wealthy migrants and has special provisions to grant residency to people who can bring along several million dollars in investments.

But the average Kiwi need not necessarily worry too much about rubbing shoulders with an Ivy League fund manager or Russian oligarch next time they tuck into a meat pie at the local rugby match.

The country's largest migration consultancy, Malcolm Pacific Immigration, said the post-election surge in interest in New Zealand was yet to translate into actual applications to move halfway around the world.

"There is a big difference between making an enquiry and following through," Chris Noakes, a team manager at the firm, told Fairfax New Zealand.
Japan says foreign workers top record 1 million

The number of foreign workers in Japan topped 1 million for the first time last year, the government has said, as the country looks overseas to offset labour shortages.

Tokyo has moved little on loosening strict rules for foreign workers despite years of calls to crack open Japan's borders to more immigrants.

But Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has unveiled a plan to review the rules, saying foreign labour will increasingly be needed, particularly in the booming construction industry ahead of the Tokyo Olympics 2020.

Japan is to review tight rules for foreign workers as more will be needed, especially in consturction ahead of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics YOSHIKAZU TSUNO (AFP/File)

A record 1,083,769 foreigners were working in the country at the end of October, up 19.4 percent from a year earlier, the labour and welfare ministry said on Friday.

The number of Chinese workers, topping the foreign labour list, gained 6.9 percent to some 345,000, accounting for nearly one third of the total, it said.

Vietnamese ranked second, jumping 56.4 percent to some 172,000, followed by Filipinos at 128,000, up 19.7 percent.

The ministry said the jump largely reflected an increase in the number of foreign students and highly skilled workers.

Rapidly-ageing Japan is desperately short of workers to pay the taxes to fund pensions and healthcare for its growing grey population, but it is almost constitutionally allergic to immigration, allowing only a small number of unskilled workers into the country.

The government has now decided to expand the country's industrial training programmes to allow foreign workers to stay five years instead of three.
US 'resistance' movement coalesces... on Twitter

A social media "resistance" movement is taking shape against the Trump administration, inspired by the new president's efforts to control information.

It began after the deletion of tweets and data from official US accounts and websites which proved embarrassing to the new president, including government reports on climate change, which have been challenged by President Donald Trump.

Some took to Twitter with "alternative" handles -- claiming to be federal employees exercising their free speech rights -- and the resistance mushroomed into a movement.

The seeds of a social media "resistance" movement against the Trump administration were first planted by the National Park Service JUSTIN SULLIVAN (Getty/AFP/File)

The seeds of rebellion were first planted by the National Park Service, which came under fire from the new administration for its photos comparing crowd size at Trump's inauguration to the event eight years earlier with Barack Obama.

After those tweets were deleted, tweets from one national park's account -- which according to some reports came from a former employee -- offered links to climate change studies, and when those were removed, a new @AltNatParkSer sprung up and amassed 1.2 million followers in a matter of days.

The account is described as "The Unofficial #Resistance team of US National Park Service."

"We don't want any trouble. We just want to keep peer-reviewed 'factually accurate' climate science flowing out of US institutions," the group said in one of its first tweets.

Over the next few days, dozens of "rogue" or "alt" Twitter accounts emerged, including @RogueNOAA (for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), @RogueNASA (for the space agency) and @alt_fda for the Food and Drug Administration.

Another account called AltEPA (@ActualEPAFacts), with more than 150,000 followers, aims to offer data which might be suppressed by the Environmental Protection Agency.

"He can take our official Twitter but he'll never take our FREEDOM," the account says. "UNOFFICIALLY resisting."

The messages were gaining traction with hashtags such as #ResistTrump, #ClimateFacts and #Twistance, although it was not clear if the messages were coming from federal employees themselves.

Some of the Twitter handles, according to various tweets, have been turned over to people outside government to avoid potential reprisals.

White House spokesman Sean Spicer denied the administration was trying to suppress free expression among federal employees.

"There's nothing that's come from the White House, absolutely not," he said when asked if the White House had ordered a clampdown.

But according to The Washington Post, Trump personally expressed anger to the head of the US park service over the inauguration day photos and ordered him to produce images to show a stronger turnout for his ceremony.

- Arab Spring redux? -

Philip Howard, a professor at the Oxford Internet Institute who has studied the role of social media in the Arab Spring uprisings, said he sees some parallels to those events.

"Whenever governments try to close up the supply of information, people look for new ways to express themselves and share information," Howard said.

"Social media resistance was an important part of the Arab Spring, during which protesters successfully used social media to turn roiling dissent into massive street protests. It is hard to know if social media will have the same role in the US, because Trump and his political communication team are already actively there on Twitter and Facebook."

John Wonderlich, executive director for the Sunlight Foundation, a group promoting transparency in government, called these actions unprecedented.

"It's a new kind mass resistance from employees who feel they can't talk to the public, and they are finding alternative channels," Wonderlich said.

"What is amazing is the public response, which is amplifying those voices."

Still, Wonderlich said the Trump administration's efforts to suppress and control data have raised concerns about the trustworthiness of information from the government.

"What we are seeing from the White House is anti-science, anti-government, anti-civil service and broad politicization of the federal workforce," he said.

"All government information under a Trump administration is going to be inherently suspect."

But because anyone can create a Twitter account and claim to represent a constituency, this makes it difficult to separate truth from misinformation, Wonderlich said.
Top Islamist militant wounded in Philippines: minister

A top leader of an Islamic militant group who is on the United States' list of "Most Wanted Terrorists" has been wounded in military airstrikes, the Philippine defence minister said Saturday.

Isnilon Hapilon was indicted in Washington for his involvement in the 2001 kidnapping of three Americans in the Philippines, and has a $5-million bounty on his head from the US government.

The 50-year-old militant is a senior leader of the Abu Sayyaf, a notorious kidnap-for-ransom gang based in the southern Philippines, and security analysts say the Islamic State (IS) group has recognised him as its leader in Southeast Asia.

The Abu Sayyaf is a loose network of militants that preys on vessels in the waters between Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines MARK NAVALES (AFP/File)

Philippine Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said Hapilon was "seriously wounded" in military air strikes on Wednesday in the mountain town of Butig, 800 kilometres (500 miles) south of Manila.

"As of (Friday, Hapilon) is still being carried by four men in a makeshift stretcher moving northeast of Butig," Lorenzana told AFP.

"Troops are in hot pursuit supported by ground artillery and air support."

Lorenzana added the military offensive killed four of Hapilon's companions including an Indonesian he identified as having the alias Mohisen.

The Abu Sayyaf, a loose network of militants formed in the 1990s with seed money from Al-Qaeda, preys on vessels in the waters between Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines and has earned millions of dollars from kidnappings-for-ransom.

Hapilon was involved in the kidnapping of three Americans from a resort in the western Philippine island of Palawan in 2001, according to the US.

The militants later beheaded one captive in their stronghold in Basilan island in the strife-torn south while another hostage died in the crossfire with soldiers during a rescue operation in 2002. The third American was freed.

Hapilon has pledged allegiance to IS, which has endorsed him as "amir for Southeast Asia," according to a 2016 report by the Jakarta-based think-tank Institute for Policy Analysis of Conflict.

"Southeast Asians in Syria have pledged their loyalty to him," the report said.

Hapilon was based in Basilan but Lorenzana said this week that he had moved to Lanao del Sur province, 300 kilometres (180 miles) east, in a bid to establish an IS presence there.
Iran's Rouhani to Trump: 'Not the time to build walls'

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani criticised his US counterpart Donald Trump on Saturday, saying now was "not the time to build walls between nations".

"They have forgotten that the Berlin Wall collapsed many years ago. Even if there are walls between nations, they must be removed," Rouhani said at a tourism convention in Tehran.

His remarks came after Trump ordered construction of a wall along the US-Mexico border and imposed tough new controls on travellers from seven Muslim countries, among them Iran.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani criticised his US counterpart Donald Trump saying "if there are walls between nations, they must be removed" HO (IRANIAN PRESIDENCY/AFP/File)

Rouhani did not comment directly on the visa ban, but said Iran had "opened its doors" to foreign tourists since the signing of a nuclear agreement with world powers in 2015.

With more than a million Iranians living in the United States, many families are deeply concerned about the implications of Trump's visa ban, which also affects citizens from Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

On Thursday, one of Iran's most popular actresses said she would boycott next month's Academy Awards in protest at the ban.

"Trump's visa ban for Iranians is racist. Whether this will include a cultural event or not, I won't attend the #AcademyAwards 2017," tweeted Taraneh Alidoosti, who stars in the Oscar-nominated "The Salesman".

No visas will be issued for migrants or visitors from the seven countries for at least 90 days, a restriction which can be extended if the countries in question do not provide extensive information on individuals seeking to enter the United States.

Quizzed on the street, many Iranians said they were baffled by the move.

"Americans themselves are mostly immigrants. To pick out a few countries and call them terrorist is not logical," said Mohsen Najari, a 33-year-old resident of the Iranian capital.

Tehran and Washington have not had diplomatic ties since students stormed the US embassy in 1980 following an Islamic revolution that toppled the US-backed shah.
In Lebanon camps, Syria refugees slam Trump bar

Shivering in their makeshift homes in camps in eastern Lebanon, Syrian refugees ask what they have done to deserve being barred from the United States.

On Friday, US President Donald Trump signed a sweeping new executive order to suspend refugee arrivals and impose tough controls on travellers from seven Muslim countries, including Syria.

More than one million Syrians have sought refuge in Lebanon from the devastating conflict in their homeland that has killed more than 310,000 people.

More than one million Syrians have sought refuge in Lebanon from the devastating conflict in their homeland STRINGER (AFP/File)

Over a third live in makeshift housing in the Bekaa valley near the Syrian border, where temperatures have dropped below freezing in recent days.

"What on earth have the Syrian people done to deserve this?" asks Abu Mahmoud al-Ghol, standing in the cold at one informal camp in the Marj area.

"And to think it's a democratic country doing it," says the 44-year-old, who fled the Syrian town of Quseir with his six children to seek refuge in Lebanon.

"We reject the decision. But what can we do about?" he says, his face appearing tired and drawn above a salt-and-pepper beard.

Nearly six years of conflict in Syria have driven more than half the population from their homes, with many fleeing abroad.

- 'Show some solidarity' -

Trump's executive order cuts the number of refugees the United States plans to resettle in fiscal year 2017 -- which is calculated from last October -- from 110,000 to 50,000.

The United States has only let in 18,000 Syrian refugees since the war began in 2011, a former US official has said.

The United Nations on Saturday urged Trump to continue his country's "long tradition" of welcoming refugees, regardless of race, nationality or religion.

At another informal camp in the Bekaa, a Syrian mother-of-four says Trump's order is unjust.

"He has no right to take such a decision," says Ibtisam Yusef, 41, her face wrapped in a green scarf.

"What's his problem if we enter the United States legally? What have we done to him?" she asks as stands outside her tent in the Bar Elias area.

Because Lebanon has not signed the 1951 UN Refugee Convention, it treats Syrians as foreigners, not refugees.

Syrian refugees struggle to get by in Lebanon despite aid from international organisations. Those who register for residency must pledge not to work.

"He should come and see how we live in the camps," says Yusef, who fled her home in the rebel bastion of Eastern Ghouta outside Damascus.

"He and European countries should show us some solidarity."

Snow covers the ground on January 28, 2017, at a Syrian refugee camp on the outskirts of the eastern Lebanese city of Baalbek STRINGER (AFP/File)
Bollywood director attacked on set by protesters

A Bollywood director has been assaulted on set by a group protesting his new movie "Padmavati", which they claim distorts historical facts about their clan.

Video shows protesters from a group called the Rajput Karni Sena slapping director Sanjay Leela Bhansali and pulling his hair as filming was taking place at a fort in Jaipur on Friday.

The protesters, who also vandalised the set, accuse Bhansali of twisting historical facts by romantically linking a Rajput queen and a Muslim ruler in the movie, according to local media.

Indian film director Sanjay Leela Bhansali (R) was assaulted while filming at a fort in Jaipur STRDEL (AFP/File)

The Rajputs were a Hindu warrior clan that historically ruled over kingdoms in Western India.

The actress playing the Rajput queen, Deepika Padukone, defended the movie on Saturday.

"I can assure you that there is absolutely no distortion of history," she tweeted.

"Our only endeavour is & has always been to share with the world the story of this courageous & powerful woman in the purest form there is."

Narayan Singh, who claims to be the local leader of Karni Sena, told the Press Trust of India that the group had warned the filmmaker against presenting "wrong facts", but he stopped short of claiming responsibility for the attack.

"We gathered there and protested," he said, adding there were also others watching the filming.

"Someone from the mob slapped him and pulled his hair," he added.
Gambia president plans massive overhaul, but keeps secret police

Gambian President Adama Barrow said Saturday that every aspect of his tiny west African state would need an overhaul after ex-leader Yahya Jammeh's 22-year rule, but that its dreaded secret police would remain.

Barrow faces an uphill task after taking over from Jammeh, who left behind a dysfunctional economy and allegedly emptied state coffers ahead of his departure.

Rights group blame the notorious National Intelligence Agency (NIA) under his longtime control for forced disappearances and torture.

The Gambia's President Adama Barrow speaks during his first press conference in Banjul on January 28, 2017 CARL DE SOUZA (AFP)

Barrow said the NIA was "an institution that has to continue", but that its name would be changed and training would be given to its operatives.

"The rule of the law, that will be the order of the day," he said.

Barrow also addressed one of Jammeh's most controversial declarations, from 2015, that The Gambia was an "Islamic republic".

Barrow, in contrast, insisted the country -- whose population is 90 percent Muslim, with the rest Christian and animist -- was a republic, "not the Islamic republic".

Civil servants would likely return to a five-day work week, breaking with Jammeh's rule that Friday was a day off in line with his Islamic republic rules.

"My government is going to look at every avenue and there will be a complete overhaul of the system," Barrow said, speaking at his first press conference since arriving back from Senegal on Thursday.

The president promised his cabinet would be named early next week so that he could "get the ball rolling", adding he would receive the first comprehensive information about the state of the nation's finances also on Monday or Tuesday.

Jammeh has been accused by a Barrow aide of taking $11 million from the state coffers before leaving for exile in Equatorial Guinea, and diplomats have said the country was already in a precarious financial state.

Barrow's first cabinet pick, Vice President Fatoumata Jallow-Tambajang, has caused controversy as she is allegedly too old to serve, according to current constitutional rules.

Asked about reform of The Gambia's army, whose poor reputation is partly responsible for the presence of 4,000 west African troops to guarantee Barrow and the population's safety, the president said he expected foreign nations to provide help.

"In the army, if we need technical aid, we will contact countries that are willing to help us," he said.

Controversial army chief Ousman Badjie would however keep his job, he said.
Trump, Abe to meet amid US leader's pledge of 'ironclad' support

Donald Trump and Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe agreed Saturday to a face-to-face meeting next month, as the US president pledged his "ironclad commitment" to Tokyo's security.

The two leaders, who agreed to meet in Washington on February 10, agreed to work together to counter the threat posed by North Korea's nuclear program and deepen bilateral trade and investment, the White House said in a statement.

They discussed the importance of the US-Japan alliance, and Trump "affirmed the ironclad US commitment to ensuring the security of Japan."

Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was the first world leader to rush to meet the US president-elect in New York, visiting Trump just nine days after Americans voted him into office in a surprise victory KAZUHIRO NOGI (AFP/File)

Trump's conversation with the Japanese leader kicked off a busy day in which the president was also to speak with the leaders of Australia, France, Germany and Russia.

The chat with Abe came days after Trump formally withdrew the United States from the Trans-Pacific Partnership, a vast trade deal encompassing a dozen nations that Abe has backed enthusiastically.

US participation is seen as key to the agreement and Abe has said he would keep trying to convince Trump of its merits. The trade deal was negotiated under former president Barack Obama. Trump yanked the deal before the US Congress was able to consider ratification.

Abe was the first world leader to meet the US president-elect in New York, visiting Trump just nine days after Americans voted him into office in a surprise victory.
In Mosul, Iraqi soldiers decry Trump's travel restrictions

In Mosul, where Iraqi forces are at the forefront of the war against jihadists, soldiers are unhappy that security concerns could keep them from visiting relatives in the United States.

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order restricting the entry of citizens of seven Muslim-majority countries including Iraq in what he described as an effort to make America safe from "radical Islamic terrorists".

The travel restrictions, which come on the heels of repeated assertions by Trump that the US should have stolen Iraq's oil before leaving in 2011, risk alienating the citizens and government of a country fighting against militants the president has cast as a major threat to America.

An Iraqi army soldier looks on as he holds a position on a roof in Mosul's al-Sahiroun neighbourhood on January 12, 2017, during an ongoing military operation against Islamic State (IS) group jihadists Dimitar DILKOFF (AFP/File)

"It's not fair, it's not right. I should have the right to visit my family," said Assem Ayad, a 23-year-old soldier deployed in Mosul who has three cousins living in Texas.

"This decision was made because there are terrorist groups in Iraq. But there are also innocent people" including those who are fighting against jihadists, said Ayad, who carried an American-made assault rifle.

Haider Hassan, 45, another soldier in Mosul, said his cousin lives in the United States and that he had wanted to visit.

Referring to US military personnel deployed in Iraq, Hassan asked: "Why would they ban us from coming to America when they are in my country and have bases here?"

The Islamic State group overran large areas north and west of Baghdad in 2014, sweeping aside military and police units that were ill-prepared to combat the offensive.

But Iraqi forces backed by US-led air support, training and other assistance have since regained much of the territory they lost, and are now three months into a massive operation to retake Mosul, the country's last city in which IS still holds significant ground.

- 'Why close the doors?' -

Hamza Kadhim, 34, noted that he and other Iraqi soldiers are part of the battle against jihadists, and also emphasised that the actions of extremists do not reflect Islam as a whole.

"On the day of his inauguration, Trump said he would fight Islamic terrorists. As Iraqi soldiers here to defend our country and fight terrorists, we tell him: Islam is not terrorism. Islam is a religion of love and brotherhood."

"We don't send terrorists to foreign countries... but we have had people coming to Iraq from foreign countries to kill, rape and rob. And we will keep fighting them until the last drop of our blood," he said, referring to IS militants.

The travel restrictions follow repeated statements by Trump that the US should have "kept the oil" in Iraq, remarks that have drawn criticism from Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi.

"Of course, the oil of Iraq is for Iraqis, and any remark to the contrary is unacceptable," Abadi told a news conference in Baghdad.

Keeping Iraq's oil would have required a continued US military occupation to accomplish, and would have been illegal under international law.

For Iraqis who have waited years for the chance to move to the US, Trump's assertion that stricter vetting of potential immigrants is needed may come as a surprise.

Abu Mohammed, a father of three, applied through the International Organization for Migration four years ago, and was expecting to move to the US in a month or two when Trump's order was announced.

"God willing, the decision won't affect my case," Abu Mohammed said.

"Why close the doors in our faces?"

An Iraqi soldier inspects the remains of a rocket embedded into the window of a vehicle following an attack, as they advance towards an area northwest of Mosul on January 20, 2017, during an ongoing military operation against the Islamic State group AHMAD AL-RUBAYE (AFP/File)

Iraqi soldiers inspect the debris on January 22, 2017 at St. George's Monastery, a historical Chaldean Catholic church on the northern outskirt of Mosul, which was destroyed by Islamic State group in 2015 AHMAD AL-RUBAYE (AFP/File)
Boko Haram raid kills at least 3 Nigerian soldiers

At least three Nigerian soldiers were killed when Boko Haram jihadists raided a military post near the country home of Nigeria's army chief in northern Borno state, military and civilian sources said Saturday.

The Islamist group however claimed to have killed five troops in the attack.

Armed jihadists from the Islamic State-supported Al-Barnawi faction of Boko Haram launched a midnight attack Thursday on Nigerian troops in the village of Kamuya, around five kilometres (three miles) from Buratai, the native home of army chief of staff General Tukur Yusuf Buratai, a military source told AFP.

Boko Haram attacks in Nigeria are believed to be reprisals over the successes by the Nigerian troops who have pushed the jihadists from swathes of territory they had seized STRINGER (AFP/File)

"The terrorists who rode on camels attacked our checkpoint at Kamuya, killing three soldiers after a gun battle," said the military source who asked not to be identified.

"The troops retreated to Buratai where they teamed up with another detachment and went after the terrorists in the bush," the military officer said.

Troops sealed the area, preventing villagers from leaving and making it difficult to get a detailed account of the incident.

Nigerian military officials declined to comment on the attack.

In a tweet from the IS-affiliated Amaq news agency, Boko Haram claimed it killed five soldiers from the regional coalition fighting the jihadists.

"Killing of five African coalition soldiers and 11 injured after attack by Islamic Caliphate forces... in Kamuya town," the tweet read in part.

A civilian resident in the nearby Miringa village said the Kamuya assault was carried out by fighters from the Al-Barnawi faction who are known to be hiding in the area's Ajigin forest.

Umar Sanda told AFP that Ajigin forest was the bastion of the Al-Barnawi fighters and that "they are responsible for most of the attacks in the area including the one in Kamuya."

He added that the residents have repeatedly told the soldiers that "Ajigin is the hideout of Boko Haram in the area and as long as they are not dislodged there will no end to their attacks."

Boko Haram, which has pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group, has been in the grip of a power struggle.

One faction is led by Abu Musab al-Barnawi, the 22-year-old son of Boko Haram's founder Mohammed Yusuf, who was named leader by the IS high command in August.

Villages in the area have been razed and plundered in deadly raids by Boko Haram since Tukur Buratai became Nigerian army chief in June 2015.

The attacks are believed to be reprisals over the successes by the Nigerian troops who have pushed Boko Haram from swathes of Nigerian territory they had seized in their bid to carve out an Islamic Caliphate.

The military campaign which succeeded in substantually cutting off Boko Haram's food, fuel and weapons supplies has also seen Boko Haram losing its Sambisa forest stronghold to Nigerian forces.
Syria rebels merge with ex-Qaeda affiliate

Several Syrian rebel factions merged with the Fateh al-Sham Front on Saturday after days of clashes between armed opposition groups and the former Al-Qaeda affiliate, they said.

The jihadist group and four rebel factions -- including the influential Nureddin al-Zinki faction -- labelled the new alliance Tahrir al-Sham.

"In view of the plots shaking the Syrian revolution... we announce the dissolution of all groups mentioned below and their total merger into a new entity named 'Tahrir al-Sham'," they said in a statement.

Aleppo's formerly rebel-held al-Shaar neighborhood is seen January 21, 2017, as Syria's conflict has killed more than 310,000 people and displaced millions since it started in 2011 LOUAI BESHARA (AFP/File)

Islamist factions Liwa al-Haq, the Ansar al-Din Front and Jaish al-Sunna also signed the declaration.

The new alliance, whose name means "Liberation of Syria", emerged days after other rebel factions joined the powerful Ahrar al-Sham group.

Fateh al-Sham and Ahrar al-Sham have for years battled side by side against President Bashar al-Assad's forces in the northern province of Idlib, the last major bastion of the armed opposition.

But the former Al-Qaeda affiliate -- which is listed as a "terrorist" group by the United Nations and Western governments -- has clashed with its erstwhile allies in recent days across Idlib and the neighbouring Aleppo province.

The fighting continued on Saturday with Fateh al-Sham seizing the area of Ihsem and the village of Dana in Idlib from rebel factions, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitor said.

Fateh al-Sham has been excluded from both a fragile nationwide ceasefire in force since December 30 and peace talks organised by Russia, Turkey and Iran this week in the Kazakh capital.

The members of the new alliance did not attend the Astana talks either.

Fateh al-Sham has accused rebels of seeking to isolate it as it is targeted by deadly air strikes. Most are believed to have been carried out by the US-led coalition fighting jihadists.

The Britain-based Observatory has said Fateh al-Sham appears to believe that local rebels were providing coordinates for the strikes.

The armed opposition has for months criticised Fateh al-Sham, accusing it of tarnishing the image of the rebellion because of its ties to Al-Qaeda, even after its cut ties to the global network last year.

Tensions rose further after the army retook the whole of Aleppo from the rebels last month, and they traded blame for the fall of the northern city.
Trump talks to world leaders amid alarm over Muslim immigrant policy

US President Donald Trump spoke by phone on Saturday with various world leaders, amid growing international alarm and a legal challenge over his moves to drastically limit Muslim immigration to the United States.

In a flurry of calls that started early in the morning and rounded out an already frantically paced week, Trump spoke with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Russian President Vladimir Putin. He has calls planned for later in the day with French President Francois Hollande and Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.

The conversations gave the US president an early opportunity to explain new policies that have baffled and unnerved much of the rest of the world -- particularly his order to temporarily halt all refugee arrivals and those of travelers from seven mainly Muslim countries including war-wracked Syria.

US President Donald Trump speaks on the phone with Russia's President Vladimir Putin from the Oval Office of the White House on January 28, 2017, in Washington, DC MANDEL NGAN (AFP)

The calls also allow him to start developing ties with countries that have been close allies with the United States in recent history, as well as Russia -- a perennial foe, but a country with which Trump has said he is keen to improve relations.

- 'Extreme vetting' -

Trump's pronouncement on Muslim immigration makes good on one of his most controversial campaign promises to subject travelers from Islamic countries to "extreme vetting," which he declared would make America safe from "radical Islamic terrorists."

"This is big stuff," the new US president declared at the Pentagon on Friday, after signing an executive order entitled "Protection of the nation from foreign terrorist entry into the United States."

The decree suspends the entire US refugee resettlement program for at least 120 days while tough vetting rules are established.

The new protocols "ensure that those approved for refugee admission do not pose a threat to the security and welfare of the United States."

In addition, they specifically bar Syrian refugees from the United States indefinitely, or until the president himself decides that they no longer pose a threat.

Meanwhile, no visas will be issued for 90 days to migrants or visitors from seven mainly Muslim countries: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

- Detentions already under way -

US authorities wasted no time implementing Trump's order, detaining travelers arriving at American airports within hours of the measures being signed, media reports said Saturday.

The New York Times reported that airport officials as early as Friday night began detaining travelers, some of whom were already aboard their flights when Trump announced his executive order.

The order also lays the groundwork for what Trump has pledged will be "extreme vetting" of visa applicants' backgrounds -- with some exceptions for members of "religious minorities," a caveat many see as a way to apply favorable treatment to Christians from majority-Muslim states.

US rights groups filed a legal challenge Saturday after two Iraqi men were detained Friday night at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York.

The American Civil Liberties Union and other advocacy groups are seeking the men's release on grounds that they are being held unlawfully, and asked that they be freed so they could at least request asylum and avoid being sent back to Iraq.

The groups asked for their suit to be considered a class action on behalf of all people held up in the same way. The two Iraqi men have valid visas, the documents stated.

- 'Greatest nation' -

One of them had worked for the US government in Iraq for 10 years and the other was coming to America to join his wife, who had worked for a US contractor, the lawsuit said.

The former, Hameed Khalid Darweesh, was released later in the day and spoke to reporters at the airport.

"America is the greatest nation, the greatest people in the world," Darweesh said.

Asked what he would say to Trump, he added: "I like him. But I don't know. This is a policy I don't know. He's a president. I'm a normal person."

Mark Doss, a supervising attorney at the International Refugee Project at the Urban Justice Center, said Darweesh's detention and release showed the new policy was being implemented "with no guidance."

Immigration advocacy groups issued an appeal for demonstrations at JFK airport, which spread rapidly over social media.

According to Camille Mackler of the New York Immigration Coalition, two New York lawmakers went to the airport to try to gain access to the men.

International groups and civil liberties organizations have roundly condemned Trump's orders.

"'Extreme vetting' is just a euphemism for discriminating against Muslims," said Anthony Romero, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union.

Romero said Trump's order breached the US constitution's ban on religious discrimination by choosing countries with Muslim majorities for tougher treatment.

Many foreign leaders said they were aghast over the new US policy.

Iran answered in kind by saying it would ban Americans from entering the country, calling Trump's action insulting.

But the US leader did get backing from Czech President Milos Zeman, who praised him for being "concerned with the safety of his citizens."

US President Donald Trump speaks on the phone with Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel from the Oval Office of the White House on January 28, 2017 in Washington, DC Mandel Ngan (AFP)

Russian President Vladimir Putin is among various world leaders US President Donald Trump will speak to on January 28, 2017 Sergei Ilnitsky (POOL/AFP/File)

Donald Trump, immigration and refugees
Israel's Netanyahu hails Trump decision on Mexico wall

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu took to Twitter on Saturday to hail new US President Donald Trump's decision to build a wall on the border with Mexico.

On Wednesday, Trump signed an executive order telling officials to begin to "plan, design and construct a physical wall" along the 3,200-kilometre (2,000-mile) US-Mexico border, making good on a campaign pledge.

In an interview with American channel Fox News on Thursday Trump justified his decision, citing Israel which, he said, had managed to "stop 99.9 percent" of illegal immigration by constructing a wall.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, seen January 26, 2017, tweeted "President Trump is right. I built a wall along Israel's southern border. It stopped all illegal immigration. Great success. Great idea" GALI TIBBON (AFP/File)

He was referring to the more than 240-kilometre barrier Israel completed in 2014 along its border with Egypt, a route previously taken by many African illegal immigrants and traffickers.

"President Trump is right. I built a wall along Israel's southern border. It stopped all illegal immigration. Great success. Great idea," Netanyahu tweeted in English, adding the Israeli and American flags.

Several hours later, foreign ministry spokesman Emmanuel Nahshon said in a tweet, also in English, that Netanyahu "referred to our specific security experience which we are willing to share. We do not express a position on US-Mexico relations."

Netanyahu, who heads one of the most right-wing governments in the history of the Jewish state, has not hidden his admiration for the new US president.

The Israeli premier's most nationalist allies see in Trump's administration the chance to continue building Jewish settlements in occupied east Jerusalem and the occupied West Bank.

Israel announced a major settlement expansion in the days after Trump's January 20 inauguration.

On Sunday, the city planning committee approved building permits for 566 settler homes in east Jerusalem.

Two days later, the defence ministry announced plans for 2,500 settler homes in the occupied West Bank.

And on Thursday, Israeli officials gave final approval to 153 east Jerusalem settler homes.
Agony for Mane as Cameroon, Burkina Faso reach Cup semis

Sadio Mane's decisive penalty miss allowed Cameroon to knock fancied Senegal out of the Africa Cup of Nations in the quarter-finals on Saturday and join Burkina Faso in the last four.

Cameroon beat Senegal 5-4 on penalties after a goalless 120 minutes in Franceville, southern Gabon, in the day's second game following a 2-0 win for Burkina Faso against Tunisia in Libreville earlier.

Liverpool star Mane was the only player to miss from the spot in the shoot-out in Franceville, with Cameroon goalkeeper Fabrice Ondoa saving his effort from 12 yards.

Cameroon's forward Benjamin Moukandjo reacts during their 2017 Africa Cup of Nations match against Senegal KHALED DESOUKI (AFP)

Vincent Aboubakar then stepped up to score and take the Indomitable Lions through to the last four at the expense of a Senegal side who were one of the favourites coming into the tournament.

Cameroon, who also beat Senegal on penalties in the final of the 2002 Cup of Nations, can now look forward to a semi-final tie against either DR Congo or Ghana in Franceville on Thursday.

It is the first time Cameroon have reached the last four since 2008, when they lost to Egypt in the final in Ghana.

"We have the possibility to write a beautiful page in our history and we do not want to stop here," Cameroon captain Benjamin Moukandjo told Canal Plus Afrique.

"We're going one game at a time. We have a semi-final to play, and whoever it is against we hope it will be as beautiful as this."

Senegal had enjoyed the better of the chances in normal time, but could not find a way past Ondoa, who was in inspired form.

"Our performance was good. We tried to play football against a side who were well organised and got men behind the ball," said the Senegal coach Aliou Cisse, who had missed the crucial penalty when the Lions of Teranga lost the 2002 final.

"We know about penalties. It comes down to luck. They won it and I wish them good luck."

Senegal's elimination means the three men who made up the podium for the 2016 African Footballer of the Year award have all been knocked out of the Cup of Nations, with Mane joining Algeria's Riyad Mahrez and Gabon's Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in heading for the exit.

- Supersub Bance -

Nobody had expected to see Cameroon go far after their build-up to the tournament had been marred by the refusal of several key players to accept call-ups.

Few tipped Burkina Faso to go far either, but the 2013 runners-up secured their place in the last four by getting the better of Tunisia with two late goals.

The Stallions had looked the more dangerous side throughout but it took the late introduction of Aristide Bance to make the difference.

Portuguese coach Paulo Duarte introduced the giant striker on 76 minutes as a tight, physical last-eight clash seemed destined for extra time.

Within five minutes Bance broke the deadlock in front of a sparse crowd in Libreville by slamming the ball into the net after a free-kick was pushed into his path just outside the box.

Prejuce Nakoulma doubled the lead on 84 minutes through a breakaway goal and Burkina Faso will now meet Egypt or Morocco at the same venue on Wednesday.

"We produced high-level football," said Duarte. "There was quality and confidence in our performance.

"The dream is to do better than in 2013, but it will not be easy."

Tunisia coach Henryk Kasperczak said: "We did not show our qualities. We did not possess the rage to win.

"We were a little tired, the physical freshness was not perfect, we did not play quickly enough when attacking."

DR Congo and 2015 runners-up Ghana meet in Oyem on Sunday at 1600 GMT.

The last quarter-final, between Herve Renard's Morocco and their north African rivals Egypt, is in Port-Gentil at 1900 GMT.
UN extends sanctions on Central African Republic

UNITED NATIONS (AP)  The U.N. Security Council has extended an arms embargo on the Central African Republic and a travel ban and asset freeze on blacklisted individuals for another year.

The resolution adopted unanimously by the council on Friday added a new provision making sexual violence a criterion for sanctions. It also encouraged member states to require that airlines provide advance passenger information to national authorities to make sure the travel ban is enforced.

France's U.N. Ambassador Francois Delattre, whose country drafted the resolution, said extending sanctions is justified because of "the persisting threat of various militias that continue to try to derail the process of stabilization and reconciliation."
Rose takes the lead as Tiger leaves early

SAN DIEGO (AP)  Justin Rose already achieved what he wanted Friday in the Farmers Insurance Open. One last birdie for the lead made the day a little bit better

Spooked by the bumpy greens late in the day at Torrey Pines that cost him two bogeys, Rose rolled in a 10-foot birdie putt on the par-5 closing hole on the South Course for a 1-under 71 that gave him a one-shot lead going into a weekend that no longer has as much star power.

Tiger Woods missed the cut in his return to the PGA Tour after 17 months. Perhaps more shocking was that Jason Day and Dustin Johnson also missed the cut, as did Rickie Fowler. Phil Mickelson was on the bubble until making a birdie on the 18th for a 72 to make the cut with one shot to spare.

Brandt Snedeker, right, waves as Justin Rose lines up a putt on the second hole during the second round of the Farmers Insurance Open golf tournament on the South Course at Torrey Pines Golf Course on Friday, Jan. 27, 2017, in San Diego. (AP Photo/Chris Carlson)

Rose, who was at 8-under 136, now gets two more cracks at the South Course, where the average score for two days was 73.8.

"Everyone has played both courses now, and now we get to play the bruiser for the next two days," Rose said. "So you just want to basically put yourself within shot."

Brandt Snedeker saved par from a shot that nearly went out-of-bounds on No. 12, rammed in a birdie putt on the 13th and held on for a 69. He was one shot behind as he tries to join J.C. Snead, Woods and Mickelson as the only back-to-back winners since this event began in 1952.

Adam Hadwin of Canada, coming off a 59 and a runner-up finish last week in the California desert, shot a 71 and joined Snedeker at 7-under 137.

The cut was at even-par 144.

"I actually think the cut mark is incredibly low for two days around here," Rose said. "Pretty much everyone who's made the cut is still in the golf tournament."

It still was too high for Woods.

He opened with a birdie on the par-5 10th on the North Course. He added another birdie on the par-5 fifth. He threw in a pair of bogeys and never looked like he was going to be sticking around for the weekend. Woods shot 72 and missed the cut at Torrey Pines for the first time.

"I just didn't make enough birdies," Woods said. "It's frustrating not being able to have a chance to win the tournament."

On a course where he has won eight times, Woods has failed to finish 72 holes in his last three starts at Torrey Pines.

Day, the No. 1 player in the world, missed the cut for the second straight year at Torrey Pines as he struggled with his putter even on the new, smoother greens on the North Course. Johnson had a chance to rally to make the cut until he missed a 6-foot par putt and three-putted for par on his last two holes.

The tournament had 10 of the top 25 players in the world. Only five of them  Hideki Matsuyama, Rose, Paul Casey, Mickelson and Emiliano Grillo  survived.

"If you're not sharp and not striking it well, it's a difficult place to play," Mickelson said.

Lefty hasn't won at Torrey since his back-to-back victories in 2000-01  before Rees Jones got his hands on it to beef it up for the 2008 U.S. Open  and while he was hovering on the cut line, he finished just seven shots behind and felt he was still in the game .

Rose had complete control of his game and was making enough putts to reach 9 under with a birdie on the 10th. He followed with a tee shot off the cart path and on a slope of deep grass leading to the 12th tee, but hacked it down to 18 feet on the fringe and holed it for a par.

But the middle of the back nine became aggravating when he missed a 6-foot par putt on the 14th, an 8-foot par putt on the 15th and a 5-foot birdie putt on the 16th.

"When the situation gets like that, you start to see not only some of the good stuff happening, but some of the bad stuff happening," Rose said. "But it was really nice to finish the way I did on 18 because ... it was pretty hard to keep it out of the water at that point."

The greens that kill so many players' confidence is where Snedeker thrives. The Tennessee native loves putting on poa annua, having won twice at Torrey and once up the coast at Pebble Beach. And he was at it again, keeping pace with Rose. But even Snedeker took his medicine with a 30-inch putt that spun out of the cup.

"Just have to take that with a grain of salt," he said. "I'm right where I love to be here on the weekend, and this course isn't getting any easier."

Justin Rose hits to the second hole during the second round of the Farmers Insurance Open golf tournament on the South Course at the Torrey Pines Golf Course Friday, Jan. 27, 2017, in San Diego. (AP Photo/Chris Carlson)

Justin Rose tees off on the third hole during the second round of the Farmers Insurance Open golf tournament on the South Course at the Torrey Pines Golf Course Friday, Jan. 27, 2017, in San Diego. (AP Photo/Chris Carlson)

Brandt Snedeker watches his putt on the fourth hole during the second round of the Farmers Insurance Open golf tournament on the South Course at Torrey Pines Golf Course on Friday, Jan. 27, 2017, in San Diego. (AP Photo/Chris Carlson)

Brandt Snedeker hits from a fairway bunker on the fourth hole during the second round of the Farmers Insurance Open golf tournament on the South Course at the Torrey Pines Golf Course Friday, Jan. 27, 2017, in San Diego. (AP Photo/Chris Carlson)

Tiger Woods reacts as he finishes the second round of the Farmers Insurance Open golf tournament Friday, Jan. 27, 2017, at Torrey Pines Golf Course in San Diego. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

Tiger Woods waits to hit his second shot from the rough alongside a pathway on the 17th hole of the north course during the second round of the Farmers Insurance Open golf tournament Friday, Jan. 27, 2017, at Torrey Pines Golf Course in San Diego. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

Phil Mickelson watches his tee shot on the third hole during the second round of the Farmers Insurance Open golf tournament on the South Course at the Torrey Pines Golf Course Friday, Jan. 27, 2017, in San Diego. (AP Photo/Chris Carlson)
Cubs invite Henderson, Kawasaki to big league camp

CHICAGO (AP)  Relief pitcher Jim Henderson and infielder Munenori Kawasaki are among the 24 non-roster players invited to the Chicago Cubs' big league camp for spring training.

Henderson went 2-2 with a 4.11 ERA in 44 appearances with the New York Mets last year. Kawasaki hit .333 in 14 games with the Cubs.

The World Series champions will hold their first full-squad workout on Feb. 18.

Top prospects Eloy Jimenez and Ian Happ also will report to major league camp.
Transcription

1 SOCIAL HEALTH INSURANCE SCHEME IN VIETNAM ACHIEVEMENTS & CHALLENGES Dept. of Planning and Finance and Health Insurance, MoH of Vietnam Tokyo, 06 June 2016

2 OUTLINE I. Basic country profile II. Structure of health system III.SHI achievements IV.Lesson learned V. Challenges VI.Moving forwards

3 I. Vietnam: Basic facts, 2014 Lao s China Cambodia Area: 332,600 km 2 (65 th ) Population: 90.7 mil (13 th ) Urban pop: 33% GDP per capita = 2,300 US$ (133 rd ) GDP growth rate: 5.42% Poverty rate: 12.6% Health expenditure: 6.7% GDP Basic Health Indicators: LEB = 73.2 yrs IMR = 14.9/1000 L.Bs U5MR = 22.4/1000 L.Bs MMR = 60/100,000 L.Bs

4 II. Health STRUCTURE care OF system HEALTH SYSTEM

5 II. STRUCTURE OF HEALTH SYSTEM Nation Ministry of Health Central General and Specialised Hosp(s) Prov Preventive Hlth Center(s) Medical and Phar Universities 63 Provinces 698 Districts 11,121 Communes Aver pop: 1-2 mil Prov Dept of Health (DOH) Prov General and Spec Hospital(s) Prov Preventive Hlth Center(s) Prov Secondary Med School Aver pop: 120,000 District Health Office District Hospital District (Preventive) Hlth Center Aver pop: 10,000 Com Hlth Center 4-5 CHWs/com, icld MD 98,000 VHWs

6 III. Health Insurance ACHIEVEMENTS 1. Historical Development By 1986: Free health care under centrally planned Economy 1989: First voluntary HI pilot begins for provinces entire population 1992 to 2009: Governed by Government Decrees Stage from 7/2009 now: Governed by the HI-Law 1/1/2015: Implementation of Compulsory Health Insurance under the Revised HI Law 6

7 2. HI coverage expansion Revised HI Law Compulsory participatio n 4% 23% 46% 60% 65% 66% 70% 72% 2015

8 3. HI coverage by groups Insureds groups: Source: Vietnam MOH 2011

9 4. Favor premium/subsidies policy Premium rate based on individual contribution Employee: 4.5% of salary (employer 3%, employee 1.5%) The poor: 4.5% of minimum salary ($30, paid by government) Near poor: 4.5 % of minimum salary (Gov. supports at least 70% of the premium) Students: 4.5 % of minimum salary (Gov. supports at least 30% of the premium) Others: 4.5% of minimum salary (paid by participants)

10 4. Favor premium/subsidies policy Number of insured (by contribution) Total (million) Employee/employer 100% subsidized by State Budget Partly subsidized by State Budget Paid by self

11 5. Health Insurance Benefits Benefits: Examination and treatment, rehabilitation, antenatal care and birth giving; Traveling expenses from district hospitals to higher-level hospitals (for some particular group). Level of Insurance Benefit: 100% - 95% - 80% health care expenditure. Services not be covered Medical costs covered by other sources; Routine health check-up, family planning services, infertility treatment; Aesthetic services; Occupational diseases; work related accidents; suicide, self-harm activities, substance abuse, consequences of law violation, etc.

12 6. Increasing number of HI Patient Visits & HI fund expenditure Number of HI patient visits (mil.) Expenditure (thousant mild. vnd)

13 7. Balance revenue & expenditure Revenue Expenditure

14 8. HI contribution to Health expenditure Other Private, 7.5% State Budget, 22.6% Out of pocket 49.3% SHI Fund, 18.4% Foreign aid, 2.3% Source: Vietnam MOH 2011

15 9. Reform Provider payment methods Capitation: Mainly at district hospitals: above 60% Some provincial hospitals and equivalent: 73 (13.4%) Diagnostic-related groups (DRGs) Pilot in 02 hospitals (Hanoi) From : Pilot in one Province (based on Thai -DRG); : expand to 5 Provinces. From 2019 for all country. Fee-for-service: The rest hospitals

16 V. LESSON LEARNED 1. Adoption of UHC Strategy: UHC stipulated by Constitution and Law In Vietnam, health care of citizens is considered as a human right and has been stipulated in the Constitution and Party Documents for many decades. Law on Health insurance in 2008 makes UHC as national goal. 2. Managing Expansion with Equity: Pro poor policies as core for equity and for expansion of coverage The Government is strongly committed to develop and to implement pro poor health programs toward equitable coverage Thanks to full premium subsidy paid by the government budget, 27 million vulnerable population are covered by Health Insurance 16

17 Lesson Learned (cont.) 3. Maintaining Momentum for Continuous Reform: using more participatory, independent, continuous reviewing process for continuous policy cycle MOH/VSS/ participatory approach. The National Assembly plays pro-active role in drafting the Law Continuous policy/legal development: for SHI, there were 3 government decrees (1992, 1998, 2005) and the Law on HI (2008), Revised HI Law (2014). Participation of independent agencies (including development partners, such as WB researchers) in assessment of UHC policies; Extensive consultation process using results of policy assessment Discussions on policy options with related stake holders, at provincial and central levels 17

18 V. PSHI CHALLENGES system 1. Common issues o Structure: Public HI scheme, weak cooperation with Private HI: Same benefits for all groups: Consumers have no choice -> no incentive for rich consumers. Heavy burden on state budget. o Low risk groups have to pay high premium No incentive to enroll in SHI -> evade paying premium. o Groups subsidized 100% by state budget: Moral hazard o Voluntary groups: No subsidized -> Adverse selection

19 V. CHALLENGES 2. Country-specific issues o Expanding the HI coverage : Households; Workers in informal sector; Workers in private companies (60% of them are currently participating in the HI scheme); o Drugs/Medicines for HI patients List of Drugs for HI patients: demand benefit constraints Management of drugs prices o Improving quality of care and removing unnecessary administrative procedures.

20 V. CHALLENGES o Inequity of payment because of inconsistency in health care price between provinces; o Undefined basic health care package; o High ratio of co-payments with high tech services; o Unsuitable payment method (fee-for-service) o Abuse of HI fund. o High administrative costs: annual card issuance; classification of HHs

21 VI. MOVING FORWARDS

22 V. MOVING FORWARDS HI Universal Coverage Master Plan Common objectives: Moving towards UHIC Specific objectives: Increasing population coverage: Maintain current membership, especially for categories with 100% enrolment. Expanding target groups so that population coverage can reach 75% by 2015 and 80% by Improving quality of care to insured patients satisfaction. Progressively taking steps to reform health financing mechanisms with a view to cutting OOP payment made by patients down to under 40 percent by 2015.

23 V. MOVING FORWARDS 1. Enhance Government s commitment Related Ministries, Provincial People s Committee to implement health insurance policies. Develop legal HI documents & strengthen the enforcement Set up specific HI coverage target for each province. Allocate State budget: Directly subsidize for vulnerable groups: Free HI cards + no copayment for the poor, ethnic minority, children under six Partly subsidize contribution for some groups (student, the near poor).

24 Government commitment 24

25 V. MOVING FORWARDS 2. Increasing population coverage National Assembly passed the amendments of Health Insurance Law - effective from 01/01/2015: All Vietnamese citizens compulsorily participate in the national HI scheme ; Family based members compulsorily participate in HI: from second member, HI contribution reduce 70%, 60%, 50% 40% of the first member s contribution; The employees of the army and police forces compulsorily participate in HI; Increase HI benefits of some beneficiaries.

26 V. MOVING FORWARDS 3. Improve quality of health service: - Strengthen capacity of health care provider; - Reform procedure administration; - IT application in treatment & examination management. 4. Reform health financing - Reform provider payment mechanism; - Reduce direct expense from state budget, increase expenditure from HI fund; - Reduce OOP. 5. Improve the capacity of state management - Coordinate between VSS and Ministry of Health in the implementation of health insurance policies; - Improve the implementation capacity of VSS.

27
'Stranger Things" Millie Bobby Brown gets first film role

LOS ANGELES (AP)  "Stranger Things" breakout Millie Bobby Brown has landed her first big film role in "Godzilla: King of Monsters," representatives for Legendary announced Friday.

With a smattering of TV credits to her name, the 12-year-old actress gained fame this past year for her portrayal of the mysterious Eleven in the sci-fi Netflix series "Stranger Things," which has been picked up for a second season.

The "Godzilla" sequel will be Brown's first film role. It's a follow-up to the 2014 "Godzilla."
Pence helps bring new energy to anti-abortion rally in DC

WASHINGTON (AP)  After more than four decades, the March for Life has become a familiar ritual in Washington. No matter the weather, thousands of abortion opponents gather every year on the National Mall, many wearing matching hats or scarves from their school or church groups, and listen to speeches from social conservatives in Congress before marching to the Supreme Court.

The presence of metal detectors and uniformed Secret Service agents was one of many signs that this year was different.

The anti-abortion movement has political momentum on its side, and Vice President Mike Pence lent his newly minted star power to Friday's rally, promising the triumphant crowd that more victories await.

Pro-life and anti-abortion activists converge in front of the Supreme Court in Washington, Friday, Jan. 27, 2017, during the annual March for Life. Thousands of anti-abortion demonstrators gathered in Washington for an annual march to protest the Supreme Court's landmark 1973 decision that declared a constitutional right to abortion. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)

"We've come to a historic moment in the cause for life," said Pence. "Life is winning in America."

Pence and White House senior adviser Kellyanne Conway pledged that President Donald Trump would keep his promises to end taxpayer-funded abortion and to choose a Supreme Court justice in the mold of the late Antonin Scalia, a conservative Catholic who opposed abortion.

Pence, who describes himself as an "evangelical Catholic," has spoken at the march before, during his time in Congress. But during Barack Obama's eight years as president, abortion opponents could point to few policy achievements at the federal level. The election of Trump brought new energy to the march, and while the National Park Service does not provide crowd estimates, the turnout was clearly bigger than in recent years.

"President Trump will make a real difference," said Marc Crotty, 62, an information-technology consultant from Rockville, Maryland, who attends the march every year. "We've had a strongly pro-abortion president for eight years."

One of Trump's first acts after taking office a week ago was to sign an executive order banning U.S. aid to foreign groups that provide abortions.

Domestically, a budget provision known as the Hyde Amendment already bans federal funding for Medicaid coverage of most abortions. Conservatives would like to see the rule made into a permanent law.

Majority Republicans in the House and Senate would also like to end federal funding for Planned Parenthood, which provided more than a third of the nation's abortions in 2014. They also hope to ban most abortions after 20 weeks of pregnancy. Trump has pledged to sign both measures if they reach his desk.

Some people at the march said they did not support Trump initially or disagreed with him on other issues but voted for him because of his stance on abortion and his ability to prevent a liberal majority on the Supreme Court.

"I wouldn't say that I was a supporter of Donald Trump," said Glenn Miller, 60, a cabinet maker from Coventry, Connecticut. "I didn't think I had a choice."

Other participants said they felt the march was important this year because their voices were not represented at last week's Women's March on Washington, an anti-Trump demonstration that drew massive crowds in Washington and cities around the country. The women's march included support for abortion rights in its mission statement and dropped an anti-abortion group as a partner.

Joi Hulecki, 63, a nurse practitioner from Orlando, Florida, said abortion-rights supporters wrongly portray the decision to terminate a pregnancy as empowering for women, when in fact women often feel pressured to have abortions and regret it later.

"We consider ourselves pro-women too," she said.

The March for Life  held every year on or near the anniversary of the 1973 Supreme Court decision legalizing abortion  was never expected to attract a crowd on the scale of the women's march, which brought more than half a million people to Washington. Organizers said in their permit application that they expected 50,000 people, though they hoped for more.

"There's been a lot of talk about numbers this past week," said Jeanne Mancini, president of the March for Life. "It's hard to add up so many numbers after 44 years because there have been a lot of us."

Mancini added that the most important number for marchers was 58 million, an estimate for the number of abortions performed in the United States since 1973.

Americans remain deeply divided on abortion. The latest Gallup survey, released last spring, found that 47 percent of Americans described themselves as pro-abortion rights and 46 percent as anti-abortion. It also found that 79 percent believed abortion should be legal in either some or all circumstances.

Ilyse Hogue, president of NARAL Pro-Choice America, said that poll shows why abortion-rights supporters should not despair.

"The vast majority of Americans support Roe v. Wade and support the legal right to abortion," Hogue said.

The March for Life, however, is running ads arguing that a majority of Americans support some restrictions on abortion and don't believe it should be funded by tax dollars.

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Follow Ben Nuckols on Twitter at https://twitter.com/APBenNuckols.

Anti-abortion activists and supporters of President Donald Trump march up Constitution Avenue en route to the Supreme Court in Washington, Friday, Jan. 27, 2017, during the 44th annual March For Life. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Anti-abortion activists march up Constitution Avenue en route to the Supreme Court in Washington, Friday, Jan. 27, 2017, during the 44th annual March For Life. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Anti-abortion activists converge in front of the Supreme Court in Washington, Friday, Jan. 27, 2017, during the annual March for Life. Thousands of anti-abortion demonstrators gathered in Washington for an annual march to protest the Supreme Court's landmark 1973 decision that declared a constitutional right to abortion. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)

An anti-abortion activist cries as she prays with others in front of the Supreme Court in Washington, Friday, Jan. 27, 2017, during the annual March for Life. Thousands of anti-abortion demonstrators gathered in Washington for an annual march to protest the Supreme Court's landmark 1973 decision that declared a constitutional right to abortion. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)

Anti-abortion demonstrators arrive on Capitol Hill in Washington, Friday, Jan. 27, 2017, during the March for Life. The march, held each year in the Washington marks the anniversary of the 1973 Supreme Court decision legalizing abortion. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

Anti-abortion activists march up Constitution Avenue en route to the Supreme Court in Washington, Friday, Jan. 27, 2017, during the 44th annual March For Life. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Anti-abortion demonstrators arrive on Capitol Hill in Washington, Friday, Jan. 27, 2017, during the March for Life. The march, held each year in the Washington marks the anniversary of the 1973 Supreme Court decision legalizing abortion. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

Anti-abortion activists march up Constitution Avenue en route to the Supreme Court in Washington, Friday, Jan. 27, 2017, during the 44th annual March For Life. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Anti-abortion demonstrators arrive on Capitol Hill in Washington, Friday, Jan. 27, 2017, during the March for Life. The march, each year in the Washington marks the anniversary of the 1973 Supreme Court decision legalizing abortion. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

Anti-abortion demonstrators arrive on Capitol Hill in Washington, Friday, Jan. 27, 2017, during the March for Life. The march, held each year in the Washington, marks the anniversary of the 1973 Supreme Court decision legalizing abortion. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
British PM May visits Turkey, reaches $125M fighter jet deal

ANKARA, Turkey (AP)  Turkey and Britain signed a deal to jointly build fighter jets during Prime Minister Theresa May's visit to Ankara on Saturday, even as the British leader called on Turkey's government to uphold democracy and abide by human rights standards.

Britain's BAE Systems and Turkish Aerospace industries signed the 100 million-pound (nearly $125.5 million) agreement establishing a partnership for the development of Turkey's fighter jet program after May met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and other Turkish officials about boosting trade between the countries once Britain leaves the European Union.

The two countries agreed to start preparatory work for a future free trade agreement and also talked about increasing cooperation in security and counterterrorism.

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, right, talks with British Prime Minister Theresa May, during their meeting at the Presidential Palace in Ankara, Turkey, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. May on Saturday met with Erdogan, a day after a friendly meeting in Washington with U.S. President Donald Trump. (Presidential Press Service, Pool via AP)

"This agreement underlines once again that Britain is a great, global, trading nation and that we are open for business," May said of the fighter jet deal, according to a statement. "It marks the start of a new and deeper trading relationship with Turkey and will potentially secure British and Turkish jobs and prosperity for decades to come."

May flew overnight to Ankara by RAF Voyager jet from the U.S., where she and U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday proclaimed a new chapter in the trans-Atlantic "special relationship."

The visit to Turkey, an important but complicated NATO ally, came amid pressure at home to condemn Turkey's clampdown on civil liberties since the government crushed a coup attempt in July.

"I am proud that the U.K. stood with you on the 15th of July last year in defense of your democracy," May said as she and Erdogan delivered brief statements to the media following their talks.

"And now it is important that Turkey sustains that democracy by maintaining the rule of law and upholding its international human rights obligations  as the government has undertaken to do," she said.

Turkey has detained tens of thousands of people suspected of links to a movement led by U.S.-based Muslim cleric Fethullah Gulen, whom the government accuses of orchestrating the failed coup attempt. More than 100,000 others have been dismissed from government jobs.

The crackdown extended to other government opponents. More than a hundred journalists and pro-Kurdish party leaders are in jail.

During a joint news conference with May, Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim strongly criticized Trump's move to suspend the admission of refugees, saying "you cannot settle this issue by building walls."

"Nobody leaves their homes for nothing," said Yildirim, whose country has admitted some 3 million refugees. "They came here to save their lives and our doors were open. And if the same thing happened again, we would do it again."

Yildirim also complained of insufficient backing for Turkish efforts to support the refugees, saying the expression of "appreciation" to Turkey was "not enough."

May said of Trump's announcement on refugees: "The United States is responsible for the United States' policy on refugees."

May, who was paying her first visit to Turkey since becoming prime minister, arrived for talks with Erdogan to find her image dominating television screens in the presidential palace, which were showing footage of her visit to the White House.

May laughed when Erdogan said her trip to Washington "was well-covered in Turkey."

In his statement, the Turkish leader said the two countries would aim to increase their bilateral trade volume from the current $15.6 billion to some $20 billion.

Earlier, May laid a wreath in the red and white colors of the Turkish flag at the tomb of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, founder of the modern Turkish Republic, before meeting Erdogan at the vast presidential palace.

She said Britain and Turkey should "renew our efforts to fulfil Ataturk's vision of peace at home and peace in the world."

Turkey has suffered multiple deadly attacks in the past two years, carried out by the Islamic State group or by Kurdish militants, including an IS raid on a nightclub in Istanbul during New Year's celebrations that killed 39 people.

Kate Allen, head of Amnesty International UK, said the visit was a "vital opportunity" for May to ask "probing questions" about allegations of the Turkish government's excessive use of force and ill-treatment of detainees.

May and Erdogan also discussed the conflict in Syria and efforts to reunite Cyprus.

Erdogan said Turkey was seeking a "different concept" in its cooperation with allies, including Britain, in its fight against the Islamic State group in Syria.

Turkey has criticized what it calls insufficient support from the U.S.-led anti-IS coalition in its military drive to liberate a key town in northern Syria from the extremists.

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This version corrects title of Kate Allen to head of Amnesty International UK.

Turkey's Prime Minister Binali Yildirim, left, walks with British Prime Minister Theresa May, centre, during her welcome ceremony prior to their meeting in Ankara, Turkey, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. May on Saturday urged Turkey to sustain its democracy and abide by human rights standards during her meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan that also drew promises of closer defense cooperation between the two NATO allies. (AP Photo)

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, 4th right, sits with his delegation during a meeting with the delegation led by British Prime Minister Theresa May, 4th left, at the Presidential Palace in Ankara, Turkey, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. May on Saturday met with Erdogan, a day after a friendly meeting in Washington with U.S. President Donald Trump. (Presidential Press Service, Pool via AP)

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, right, talks with British Prime Minister Theresa May, during their meeting at the Presidential Palace in Ankara, Turkey, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. May on Saturday met with Erdogan, a day after a friendly meeting in Washington with U.S. President Donald Trump. (Presidential Press Service, Pool via AP)

British Prime Minister, Theresa May, looks at Turkey's Prime Minister Binali Yildirim, after they reviewed an honour guard during her welcome ceremony prior to their meeting in Ankara, Turkey, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. May met also with Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and the talks in Ankara will focus on boosting trade between Turkey and Britain once the U.K. leaves the European Union, and on increasing cooperation over security and counterterrorism. May and Turkish leaders are also expected to discuss the conflict in Syria and efforts to reunite Cyprus. (AP Photo)

Turkey's Prime Minister Binali Yildirim, right, shakes hands with British Prime Minister Theresa May, left, prior to their meeting in Ankara,Turkey, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. May on Saturday urged Turkey to sustain its democracy and abide by human rights standards during her meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan that also drew promises of closer defense cooperation between the two NATO allies. (Pool photo via AP)

Turkey's Prime Minister Binali Yildirim, right, sits with British Prime Minister Theresa May, left, prior to their meeting in Ankara,Turkey, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. May on Saturday urged Turkey to sustain its democracy and abide by human rights standards during her meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan that also drew promises of closer defense cooperation between the two NATO allies. (Pool photo via AP)

Turkey's Prime Minister Binali Yildirim, left, walks with British Prime Minister Theresa May, centre, during her welcome ceremony prior to their meeting in Ankara, Turkey, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. May on Saturday urged Turkey to sustain its democracy and abide by human rights standards during her meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan that also drew promises of closer defense cooperation between the two NATO allies. (AP Photo)

Turkey's Prime Minister Binali Yildirim, right, shakes hands with British Prime Minister Theresa May, left, prior to their meeting in Ankara, Turkey, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. May on Saturday urged Turkey to sustain its democracy and abide by human rights standards during her meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan that also drew promises of closer defense cooperation between the two NATO allies. The visit aimed to boost trade between Turkey and Britain once the U.K. leaves the European Union, and focused on increasing cooperation over security and counterterrorism. (AP Photo)

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, right, talks with British Prime Minister Theresa May, during their meeting at the Presidential Palace in Ankara, Turkey, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. May on Saturday met with Erdogan, a day after a friendly meeting in Washington with U.S. President Donald Trump. (Presidential Press Service, Pool via AP)

Turkey's Prime Minister Binali Yildirim, left, walks with British Prime Minister Theresa May, centre, during her welcome ceremony prior to their meeting in Ankara, Turkey, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. May on Saturday urged Turkey to sustain its democracy and abide by human rights standards during her meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan that also drew promises of closer defense cooperation between the two NATO allies. The visit aimed to boost trade between Turkey and Britain once the U.K. leaves the European Union, and focused on increasing cooperation over security and counterterrorism. (AP Photo)

Turkey's Prime Minister Binali Yildirim, right, shakes hands with British Prime Minister Theresa May, left, prior to their meeting in Ankara, Turkey, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. May on Saturday urged Turkey to sustain its democracy and abide by human rights standards during her meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan that also drew promises of closer defense cooperation between the two NATO allies. (AP Photo)

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, 2nd right, sits with his delegation during a meeting with the delegation led by British Prime Minister Theresa May, 5th left, at the Presidential Palace in Ankara, Turkey, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. May on Saturday met with Turkish President Erdogan, a day after a friendly meeting in Washington with U.S. President Donald Trump. (Presidential Press Service, Pool via AP)

Turkey's Prime Minister Binali Yildirim, left, walks with British Prime Minister Theresa May, centre, as they review an honour guard during a welcoming ceremony prior to their meeting in Ankara, Turkey, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. (AP Photo)

British Prime Minister, Theresa May, centre, walks to lay a wreath during a visit to the mausoleum of Turkey's founding father Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, in Ankara, Turkey, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. May's talks in Ankara with Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Prime Minister Binali Yildirim will focus on boosting trade between Turkey and Britain once the U.K. leaves the European Union, and on increasing cooperation over security and counterterrorism. (Halil Sagirkaya/Pool via AP)

British Prime Minister, Theresa May, right, pays her respects after laying a wreath at the mausoleum of Turkey's founding father Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, in Ankara, Turkey, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. May's talks in Ankara with Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Prime Minister Binali Yildirim will focus on boosting trade between Turkey and Britain once the U.K. leaves the European Union, and on increasing cooperation over security and counterterrorism. (Rasit Aydogan/Pool via AP)

British Prime Minister, Theresa May, walks to lay a wreath during a visit to the mausoleum of Turkey's founding father Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, in Ankara, Turkey, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. May's talks in Ankara with Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Prime Minister Binali Yildirim will focus on boosting trade between Turkey and Britain once the U.K. leaves the European Union, and on increasing cooperation over security and counterterrorism. (Halil Sagirkaya/Anadolu Pool via AP)

British Prime Minister Theresa May, left, walks during a visit to the mausoleum of Turkey's founding father Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, in Ankara, Turkey, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. May's talks in Ankara with Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Prime Minister Binali Yildirim will focus on boosting trade between Turkey and Britain once the U.K. leaves the European Union, and on increasing cooperation over security and counterterrorism. (Rasit Aydogan/Anadolu Pool via AP)

British Prime Minister, Theresa May, 2nd left, walks during a visit to the mausoleum of Turkey's founding father Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, in Ankara, Turkey, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. May's talks in Ankara with Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Prime Minister Binali Yildirim will focus on boosting trade between Turkey and Britain once the U.K. leaves the European Union, and on increasing cooperation over security and counterterrorism. (Rasit Aydogan/Pool via AP)

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, right, shakes hands with British Prime Minister Theresa May, left, prior to their meeting at the Presidential Palace in Ankara, Turkey, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. May on Saturday met with Erdogan, a day after a friendly meeting in Washington with U.S. President Donald Trump (Presidential Press Service, Pool via AP)

British Prime Minister Theresa May speaks during a joint news conference with President Donald Trump in the East Room of the White House in Washington, Friday, Jan. 27, 2017. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, right, shakes hands with British Prime Minister Theresa May, prior to their meeting at the Presidential Palace in Ankara, Turkey, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. May met with Erdogan and the talks in Ankara will focus on boosting trade between Turkey and Britain once the U.K. leaves the European Union, and on increasing cooperation over security and counterterrorism. May and Turkish leaders are also expected to discuss the conflict in Syria and efforts to reunite Cyprus. (Pool via AP)

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, right, poses for the photographers with British Prime Minister Theresa May, prior to their meeting at the Presidential Palace in Ankara, Turkey, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. May met with Erdogan and the talks in Ankara will focus on boosting trade between Turkey and Britain once the U.K. leaves the European Union, and on increasing cooperation over security and counterterrorism. May and Turkish leaders are also expected to discuss the conflict in Syria and efforts to reunite Cyprus. (Pool via AP)

British Prime Minister Theresa May, center, walks during a visit to the mausoleum of Turkey's founding father Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, in Ankara, Turkey, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. May's talks in Ankara with Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Prime Minister Binali Yildirim will focus on boosting trade between Turkey and Britain once the U.K. leaves the European Union, and on increasing cooperation over security and counterterrorism. (Rasit Aydogan/Pool via AP)

British Prime Minister, Theresa May, stands after laying a wreath at the mausoleum of Turkey's founding father Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, in Ankara, Turkey, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. May's talks in Ankara with Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Prime Minister Binali Yildirim will focus on boosting trade between Turkey and Britain once the U.K. leaves the European Union, and on increasing cooperation over security and counterterrorism. (Rasit Aydogan/Pool via AP)

British Prime Minister, Theresa May, stands during a visit to the mausoleum of Turkey's founding father Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, in Ankara, Turkey, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. May's talks in Ankara with Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Prime Minister Binali Yildirim will focus on boosting trade between Turkey and Britain once the U.K. leaves the European Union, and on increasing cooperation over security and counterterrorism. (Rasit Aydogan/Pool via AP)

British Prime Minister, Theresa May, centre, walks during a visit to the mausoleum of Turkey's founding father Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, in Ankara, Turkey, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. May's talks in Ankara with Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Prime Minister Binali Yildirim will focus on boosting trade between Turkey and Britain once the U.K. leaves the European Union, and on increasing cooperation over security and counterterrorism. (Rasit Aydogan/Pool via AP)

British Prime Minister, Theresa May, walks to lay a wreath during a visit to the mausoleum of Turkey's founding father Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, in Ankara, Turkey, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. May's talks in Ankara with Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Prime Minister Binali Yildirim will focus on boosting trade between Turkey and Britain once the U.K. leaves the European Union, and on increasing cooperation over security and counterterrorism. (Rasit Aydogan/Pool via AP)
Trump, Putin discuss 'mutually beneficial' trade, security

WASHINGTON (AP)  President Donald Trump had an hourlong discussion Saturday with Russian President Vladimir Putin  the first since Trump assumed office last week  raising questions over the fate of U.S. sanctions against Moscow and whether the two will look to enhance military cooperation against the Islamic State group.

The White House provided a thin readout on the call between the two leaders, saying it was "a significant start to improving the relationship between the United States and Russia that is in need of repair."

The two leaders discussed "a range in topics from mutual cooperation in defeating ISIS to efforts in working together to achieve more peace throughout the world including Syria," the White House statement said, using an acronym for the militant group.

President Donald Trump speak in the East Room of the White House in Washington, Friday, Jan. 27, 2017. A day ahead of Trumps weekend call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, the fight within the Republican Party over the direction of U.S. policy toward Moscow intensified. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

A White House official later said sanctions did not come up in Saturday's call between Trump and Putin. The official said Putin brought up several times that Islamic terrorism was a "common foe" for the U.S. and Russia. The official was not authorized to disclose details of the call by name and insisted on anonymity.

Contrary to statements from the White House, the Kremlin said that the two leaders addressed the importance of "restoring mutually beneficial trade and economic ties between business circles of the two countries."

The Kremlin also said that Putin and Trump spoke in particular about international issues, including the fight against terrorism, the Arab-Israeli conflict, Iran's nuclear program, the situation on the Korean peninsula and the Ukraine crisis.

Moscow has applauded Trump's promises to rebuild U.S.-Russian relations, which have been pushed to their worst level since the Cold War by the Ukraine crisis, war in Syria and allegations of Russian meddling in U.S. elections. Trump signed a presidential memorandum on the plan to defeat the Islamic State group Saturday, including in it the possibility of teaming up with "new coalition partners," suggesting that pairing up with Russia on counterterrorism issues isn't off the table.

Trump was noncommittal about whether he was considering lifting the economic sanctions ahead of the call, telling reporters Friday: "We'll see what happens. As far as the sanctions, very early to be talking about that."

In 2014, Russia annexed Ukraine's Crimea region and backed separatists fighting government forces in eastern Ukraine, drawing widespread condemnation in Europe and the United States.

In response, sanctions were implemented against sectors of Russia's economy, including financial services, energy, mining and defense. The Obama administration also sanctioned people in Putin's inner circle.

Shortly before leaving office, President Barack Obama also ordered sanctions on Russian spy agencies, closed two Russian compounds in the United States and expelled 35 diplomats that he said were really spies. These sanctions followed an assessment by U.S. intelligence that Moscow meddled in the 2016 election to help Trump become president.

Trump's tempered approach to U.S.-Russia relations has already raised concern among several European allies who believe keeping Russia in check is essential to regional security.

British Prime Minister Theresa May, whose country  as part of the European Union  also has punished Russia for its provocations in Ukraine, voiced the view of many in Europe, telling reporters in Washington on Friday: "We believe the sanctions should continue."

Vice President Mike Pence and other senior advisers joined Trump for the call with Putin, including his national security adviser, retired Gen. Michael Flynn, chief of staff Reince Priebus and senior strategist Steve Bannon. Trump also spoke on Saturday with the leaders of Japan, Germany, France and Australia.

Two Republican senators  Arizona's John McCain, chairman of the Armed Services Committee, and Ohio's Rob Portman, a member of the Foreign Relations Committee warned the White House about easing any punishments on Moscow and they pledged to turn the sanctions into law.

"I hope President Trump will put an end to this speculation and reject such a reckless course," McCain said in a statement. "If he does not, I will work with my colleagues to codify sanctions against Russia into law."

Portman said lifting the sanctions "for any reason other than a change in the behavior that led to those sanctions in the first place would send a dangerous message to a world already questioning the value of American leadership and the credibility of our commitments after eight years of Obama administration policies."

McCain has emerged as a frequent critic of Trump among Capitol Hill Republicans. He takes a dim view of trying to reset relations with Moscow and says Trump should remember that Putin is "a murderer and a thug who seeks to undermine American national security interests at every turn."

"For our commander in chief to think otherwise would be naive and dangerous," McCain said.

McCain and Portman are part of a bipartisan group of senators who have introduced legislation designed to go beyond the punishments against Russia already levied by Obama and to demonstrate to Trump that forcefully responding to Moscow's meddling isn't a partisan issue.

The bill would impose mandatory visa bans and freeze the financial assets of anyone who carries out cyberattacks against public or private computer systems and democratic institutions.

The legislation also mandates sanctions in Russia's all-important energy sector and on investments in the development of civil nuclear projects to rebuke Moscow for its provocations in eastern Ukraine and military support for Syrian President Bashar Assad.

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Associated Press writer Howard Amos in Moscow contributed to this report.

FILE - In this Jan. 12, 2017 file photo, Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz. speaks on Capitol Hill in Washington. A day ahead of President Donald Trumps weekend call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, the fight within the Republican Party over the direction of U.S. policy toward Moscow intensified. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File)
France's hard left faces off against center left in primary

PARIS (AP)  Hard-left Socialist rebel Benoit Hamon heads into France's left-wing presidential primary runoff as a surprising favorite to beat pro-business pragmatist Manuel Valls, in a vote that will realign France's unpredictable presidential campaign.

Hamon is the favorite in Sunday's vote after arriving in pole position in the first round with 36 percent of the votes.

He proposes a "determined and optimistic leftist alternative." His most talked-about proposal is a 750 euros ($800) "universal income" that would be gradually granted to all adults.

Candidate for the left-wing presidential primaries Benoit Hamon visits a cultural center in Lille, Northern France, Friday, Jan. 27, 2017. Manuel Valls, a center-leaning former prime minister who rallied France together after extremist attacks, will confront stalwart Socialist Benoit Hamon in the country's left-wing presidential primary runoff Sunday. (AP Photo/Michel Spingler)

He is now backed by another left-wing candidate, Arnaud Montebourg, eliminated from the race with 17.5 percent of the votes.

Valls, who arrived second with 31.4 percent, criticized Hamon's "unrealistic" promises.

A former junior minister and briefly education minister, Hamon left the government in 2014. He then led a group of rebel Socialist lawmakers who opposed the government's economic policies.

"Yesterday's failed solutions have no reason to become successes tomorrow," he said at a rally near Paris Thursday.

Nassera Mohammad, living in Trappes, the suburban city west of Paris where Hamon was elected, said he believes the hard-left candidate proposes "real innovation" in French politics. "That's where we have to go, toward a renewal ... and not to be pleased with the old programs or with very small reforms," Mohammad said.

Ten French economists, including Thomas Piketty author of the best-seller "Capital in the Twenty-First Century" this week published an article to argue that the universal income can be "relevant and innovative".

"Properly conceived and detailed, the universal living income can be a key element for reshaping our social model," they wrote.

Valls has tried to make an asset from his experience as prime minister from 2014 to 2016 despite his association with unpopular President Francois Hollande.

Valls promotes "authority and security" values as the country is still under threat from potential terror attacks.

He says he represents a "credible left" seeking a balance between France's social model and reforms adapting the country to globalization.

"I don't want to be the candidate of the taxes; I leave it to my adversary," Valls said in a rally near Paris Thursday. "I want to be the candidate of work value, of jobs, with a clear and serious roadmap offering a future to the French people."

Vivien Chauffaille, a Parisian attending Valls' rally, said "he is the only one able to be a statesman and implement his proposals."

The French Socialist party has been torn for years between advocates of a radical left, including Hamon and Montebourg, and others sharing center-left views, like Valls and Hollande.

Divisions are so deep that if Hamon wins Sunday, some supporters of Valls are expected to back centrist figure Emmanuel Macron, who is campaigning for president as an independent.

Early polls showed the Socialist nominee, whichever is chosen, is currently ranking at the fifth position in the race for president. Not only far-right leader marine Le Pen and conservative leader Francois Fillon appear to be far ahead, followed by Macron and far-left figure Jean-Luc Melenchon.

Another sign of the Socialist party's uphill struggle for survival is that the first round was marred by irregularities in the vote count.

Results were not in dispute, but the number of voters was. Observers suspected organizers of trying to increase it artificially in order to give their future nominee more legitimacy.

In the end, the party announced 1.6 million voters last week. More than 4 million people cast ballots at the conservative primary in November.

The primary is open to all voters who pay 1 euro ($1.04) and sign a document saying they share the left's values.

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Nadine Achoui-Lesage and Oleg Cetinic contributed to the story

Former French prime minister and candidate in the left-wing primary for the 2017 French presidential election, Manuel Valls, arrives for a meeting in Alfortville, outside Paris, France, Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017. Former education minister Benoit Hamon will take on former prime minister Manuel Valls in a run-off vote on January 29, 2017, after scoring a surprise win in the first round of a primary seen as a battle for the party's soul. (AP Photo/Christophe Ena)

Candidate for the left-wing presidential primaries Benoit Hamon visits a cultural center in Lille, Northern France, Friday, Jan. 27, 2017. Manuel Valls, a center-leaning former prime minister who rallied France together after extremist attacks, will confront stalwart Socialist Benoit Hamon in the country's left-wing presidential primary runoff Sunday. (AP Photo/Michel Spingler)

Candidate for the left-wing presidential primaries Benoit Hamon, left, visits a cultural center in Lille, Northern France, Friday, Jan. 27, 2017. Manuel Valls, a center-leaning former prime minister who rallied France together after extremist attacks, will confront stalwart Socialist Benoit Hamon in the country's left-wing presidential primary runoff Sunday. (AP Photo/Michel Spingler)

Former French prime minister and candidate in the left-wing primary for the 2017 French presidential election, Manuel Valls, delivers his speech during a meeting in Alfortville, outside Paris, France, Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017. Former education minister Benoit Hamon will take on former prime minister Manuel Valls in a run-off vote on January 29, 2017, after scoring a surprise win in the first round of a primary seen as a battle for the party's soul. (AP Photo/Christophe Ena)
PICTURED: A selection of pictures from the past week

Highlights from the weekly AP photo report, a gallery featuring a mix of front-page photography, the odd image you might have missed and lasting moments our editors think you should see.

This week's gallery features images of a ferry traveling on the East River from Manhattan to Brooklyn during a storm in New York; African migrants sitting on the deck of a ship in the Mediterranean; a woman carrying a pair of boots from her tornado-damaged home in Georgia.

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A ferry travels on the East river from Manhattan to Brooklyn during a storm in New York, Monday, Jan. 23, 2017. From California to the Deep South to the Northeast, millions of Americans dealt with death and destruction from a series of storms. (AP Photo/Andres Kudacki)

This gallery contains photos published, Jan. 21-27, 2017.

See the latest AP photo galleries: http://apne.ws/TXeCBN

The Archive: Top photo highlights from previous weeks: http://apne.ws/13QUFKJ

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Follow AP photographers on Twitter: http://twitter.com/AP/lists/ap-photographers

Follow AP Images on Twitter: http://twitter.com/AP_Images

Visit AP Images online: http://www.apimages.com http://www.apimages.com/

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This gallery was produced by Shoun Hill in New York.

Wrapped in blankets, Sub-Saharan migrants sit on the deck of the ship Golfo Azzurro after their rescue from a rubber boat by members of the Proactive Open Arms organization in the Mediterranean sea, about 24 miles north of Sabratha, Libya, on Friday, Jan. 27, 2017. Tens of thousands of people seeking better lives are expected to trek across deserts and aboard unseaworthy boats from war-torn Libya this year in a desperate effort to reach European shores by way of Italy. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti)

Jenny Bullard carries a pair of boots from her home that was damaged by a tornado, Sunday, Jan. 22, 2017, in Adel, Ga. Gov. Nathan Deal declared a state of emergency in several counties, including Cook, that have suffered deaths, injuries and severe damage from weekend storms. (AP Photo/Branden Camp)

People wait to disembark from a ferry arriving at the port in Banjul, Gambia, Saturday Jan. 21, 2017, as life slowly returns to the Gambian capital. Gambia's defeated leader Yahya Jammeh announced early Saturday he has decided to relinquish power, after hours of last-ditch talks with regional leaders and the threat by a regional military force to make him leave. (AP Photo/Jerome Delay)

Kim Jong Un and Donald Trump impersonators, Howard, left, and Dennis, right, stand side by side on a train to promote a music video they created in Hong Kong, Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2017. (AP Photo/Vincent Yu)

A woman closes a gate on her property as a forest fire burns on a nearby mountain in Cajon del Maipo, on the outskirts of Santiago, Chile, on Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2017. The country is suffering one of its worst fire waves in history. The fires have outpaced local ability to put them out, forcing Chile to request international aid. (AP Photo/Esteban Felix)

Prudent Mazerolle walks with his dog, Blackie, on the main road to his house in Pointe Sapin, New Brunswick, on Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017. More than 80,000 customers were still without power in many parts of New Brunswick early Thursday after a blustery mix of freezing rain, ice pellets and strong winds moved through the Maritimes. (Diane Doiron/The Canadian Press via AP)

Pedestrians walk over the Millennium Bridge as fog shrouds St Paul's Cathedral in London, Monday, Jan. 23, 2017. Freezing fog covered the capital on Monday as cold weather conditions continued. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

Police launch tear gas shells to disperse protestors demanding the cancellation of a plan for a massive coal-fired power plant near ecologically sensitive mangrove forests on the coast in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017. The government insists that the planned 1.3-gigawatt Rampal power station near the Sundarbans, a world heritage site, is key to reaching its target of 24 gigawatts of electrical capacity by 2021. (AP Photo)

People walk through an underpass in Astana, Kazakhstan, Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2017. The Kazakh capital was hit by a heavy gale and a snowfall with a temperature of - 6 C (F 21). (AP Photo/Sergei Grits)

An inmate holds up a makeshift knife moments after police left the prison in the Alcacuz prison in Nisia Floresta, near Natal, Brazil, on Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2017. Military police had entered the facility in northeastern Brazil where a temporary wall separating two rival gangs is being built, after a week of chaos and fighting between rival gangs that left dozens of inmates dead. (AP Photo/Felipe Dana)

A border patrol agent, watches the Mexico-U.S. border fence, on the Mexican side, separating the towns of Anapra, Mexico and Sunland Park, N.M., on Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2017. (AP Photo/Christian Torres)

Horses graze in a paddock as fog envelopes the trees behind them near Leith Hill, England, in Surrey, southwest of London, Monday, Jan. 23, 2017. Thick fog has caused numerous flight delays and cancellations at London Heathrow and other area airports. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)
EU impasse on sharing burden of migrants weighs on Merkel

BERLIN (AP)  German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Saturday that there's no solution yet to the problem of how to fairly share the burden of migration in the European Union, an issue that has weighed on Berlin's relations with other members of the 28-nation bloc ever since the migrant influx of 2015.

The impasse has given ammunition to Merkel's domestic critics, who have railed against Germany's decision to take in hundreds of thousands of asylum-seekers over the past two years even as other European countries closed their borders to migrants.

Merkel, who is running for a fourth term in September's general election, said the issue would be raised at an EU summit in Malta on Friday, but downplayed hopes for a breakthrough.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel delivers a speech at a local meeting of her Christian Democrats, CDU, in Grimmen, northern Germany, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. Merkel said there's no solution yet to the problem of how to fairly share the burden of migration among European Union member states. (Stefan Sauer/dpa via AP)

"I wouldn't spread too much optimism," she said in a weekly podcast published Saturday.

"We have to insist that everybody shows a bit of solidarity when it comes to distribution (of migrants)," Merkel said, adding this could include contributing to border security and development aid.

"How this will look exactly is something I can't say at this point," she said. "The issue isn't resolved yet."

Members of Merkel's Christian Democratic Union overwhelmingly voted Saturday to nominate her as the party's candidate in the far northeast of Germany, though support dropped from 100 percent in 2013 to just under 96 percent this year. Merkel has won the seat at every election since 1990.

This year she faces a challenge in her constituency from the local leader of the anti-immigration Alternative for Germany party, which is expected to enter federal parliament for the first time in the Sept. 24 vote. Even if Merkel failed to win the constituency directly she would likely enter parliament under Germany's electoral system , which allocates about half of all seats based on the votes each party receives.

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Follow Frank Jordans on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/wirereporter

Sub-saharan migrants hold on to ropes to keep their balance on the deck of the Golfo Azzurro boat after been rescued from a rubber boat by members of Proactive Open Arms NGO, on the Mediterranean sea, about 24 miles north of Sabratha, Libya, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. Rescuers pulled nearly 300 people from two rubber boats in waters off the Libyan coast on Friday, and all of them will be transferred to an Italian port in Sicily. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti)
In South Africa, conservationists offer fake leopard hides

DURBAN, South Africa (AP)  Many worshippers at a large religious gathering in South Africa this weekend will wear leopard skins, seen as symbols of status and power. But some of the pelts are fake, reflecting an effort by an international conservation group to reduce poaching of the threatened animals.

The Shembe church of southern Africa, which mixes Christian and traditional Zulu beliefs, is expected to draw many thousands of people Sunday near the city of Durban. Followers will come from across South Africa, as well as neighboring Zimbabwe and Mozambique.

The Panthera conservation group says it has donated more than 14,000 fake leopard skins to Shembe followers and that another 4,000 will be distributed. Demand for real leopard pelts in the Shembe community in South Africa has dropped by 50 percent because of the campaign, according to the group, which launched its "Furs for Life" project in 2013.

FILE - In this Jan. 15, 2016 file photo members of the Shembe Church dressed in tribal leopard skins sing the praise of their prophet on the holy Nlangakazi Mountain north of Durban, South Africa in an annual pilgrimage. In a gathering this weekend many worshippers will wear leopard skins, seen as symbols of status and power. Some of the pelts to be displayed, however, are fake, reflecting an effort by an international conservation group to reduce poaching of Africa's threatened leopards. (AP Photo/Themba Hadebe, File)

Africa's leopard population has dropped over decades because of habitat loss, the loss of prey killed by poachers for meat, illegal hunting of leopards for their skins and attacks by people who want to protect their livestock.

While there is limited data on leopard numbers across the continent, one study estimates the population in sub-Saharan Africa has dropped more than 30 percent over the past two decades or so. Leopards are listed as vulnerable on an international "red list" of threatened species.

Southern Africa is considered a relative stronghold for leopards compared to other parts of Africa, though Panthera estimates that as many as 2,500 leopards are killed annually for their skins in the region. The group says fewer than 5,000 leopards remain in South Africa.

Concerned about threats to the leopard population, South Africa in January 2016 banned the regulated "trophy" hunting of leopards.

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Follow Christopher Torchia on Twitter at www.twitter.com/torchiachris
The Latest: Trump reaffirms NATO commitment to France

WASHINGTON (AP)  The Latest on President Donald Trump (all times EST):

7 p.m.

President Donald Trump has reaffirmed to France the U.S. commitment to the NATO alliance, including that all members share the burden on defense spending.

President Donald Trump, accompanied by, from second from left, Chief of Staff Reince Priebus, Vice President Mike Pence, White House press secretary Sean Spicer and National Security Adviser Michael Flynn, speaks on the phone with with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)

Speaking by telephone with French President Francois Hollande (frahn-SWAH' oh-LAWND'), the White House says Trump also expressed his desire to work with France on a range of issues, especially counterterrorism and security.

During the presidential campaign, Trump had dismissed NATO as "obsolete" and suggested the U.S. might not aid members who hadn't paid their share of military defense costs.

The White House says Trump and Hollande also praised joint efforts by their countries to eliminate the Islamic State group from Iraq and Syria.

Trump offered condolences for the loss of life in terrorists attacks carried out across France during the past two years.

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6:55 p.m.

President Donald Trump and Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull are stressing the "enduring strength and closeness" of relations between their countries.

The White House says both leaders agree that the relationship is critical for peace, stability and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region and globally. The White House says in a brief, two-sentence statement that the conversation lasted 25 minutes.

Turnbull was the fifth foreign leader Trump spoke with by telephone on Saturday.

The president also had conversations with the leaders of Japan, Russia, Germany and France.

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6:15 p.m.

The White House says President Donald Trump and Russia's President Vladimir Putin discussed a range of topics from defeating the Islamic State group to ways "to achieve more peace."

A statement Saturday said the phone conversation between the two leaders lasted one hour and "was a significant start to improving the relationship between the United States and Russia that is in need of repair."

The statement focused exclusively on security-related matters.

However, an earlier statement released by the Kremlin said Trump and Putin addressed "restoring mutually beneficial trade and economic ties between business circles of the two countries."

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3:55 p.m.

The White House says President Donald Trump and German Chancellor Angela Merkel agree on "fundamental importance" of NATO to trans-Atlantic relations.

The leaders also discussed the situation in the Middle East and North Africa, relations with Russia and the Ukraine crisis during what was described as an "extensive telephone conversation."

In previous remarks Trump has dismissed NATO as "obsolete." But British Prime Minister Theresa May, who met with Trump on Friday, said the president assured her he was "100 percent" behind the organization.

Trump and Merkel agreed to deepen German-US relations, and increase cooperation in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism.

The White House says Trump accepted Merkel's invitation to the Group of 20 economic summit in Hamburg, Germany, in July. He also said he looked forward to welcoming her to Washington soon.

A statement from Merkel's spokesman mirrored the White House description of the call.

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3:50 p.m.

A spokesman for Angela Merkel says the German Chancellor and U.S. President Donald Trump agree on the "fundamental importance that the NATO alliance has for trans-Atlantic relations" and the need for all members to pay their fair share.

Steffen Seibert says the two leaders had an "extensive phone conversation" Saturday in which they discussed NATO, the situation in the Middle East and North Africa, relations with Russia and the conflict in eastern Ukraine.

Seibert said in a statement that Merkel and Trump stressed their intention "to further deepen the already excellent bilateral relations in the coming years."

He said that Trump accepted Merkel's invitation to attend the G-20 meeting in Hamburg, Germany, in July. Seibert said Trump also said he looked forward to welcoming Merkel in Washington "soon."

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3:10 p.m.

The Kremlin says Russia's Vladimir Putin (POO'-tihn) and President Donald Trump have agreed to work closely together and boost ties between the powers.

That's the message after the leaders spoke by telephone on Saturday. It's their first official contact since Trump took office.

A Kremlin statement says "both sides showed their readiness for active, joint work to stabilize and develop Russian-American cooperation."

There is no immediate comment from the White House.

The Kremlin says Putin and Trump will maintain "regular personal contact" and begin preparations for a face-to-face meeting.

The Kremlin has applauded Trump's promises to rebuild U.S.-Russian relations. They've been pushed to their worst level since the Cold War by the Ukraine crisis, war in Syria and allegations of Russian meddling in U.S. elections.

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12:15 p.m.

The presidents are on the phone.

White House press secretary Sean Spicer has tweeted that the scheduled call between President Donald Trump and Russia's Vladimir Putin is underway.

It's the first time the leaders have spoken since Trump took office on Jan. 20.

Trump has said he's open to cooperating with Russia if it helps further American interests abroad.

Before the call, Trump was noncommittal about whether he was considering lifting economic sanctions imposed on Moscow by the Obama administration.

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11:10 a.m.

President Donald Trump has invited Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe (shin-zoh ah-bay) to a meeting in Washington on Feb. 10.

White House spokesman Sean Spicer says on Twitter that Trump extended the invitation during a telephone conversation with Abe on Saturday.

The White House says in a statement that Trump affirmed the "ironclad U.S. commitment" to Japan's security. The leaders pledged to consult and cooperate on the threat posed by a nuclear-ambitious North Korea.

They also discussed Defense Secretary Jim Mattis' upcoming visit to the region, including Japan.

It was the first several conversations Trump planned with world leaders on Saturday. The president is also expected to speak with the leaders of Russia, Germany, France and Australia.

Abe was the first world leader to meet with Trump after the election.

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6 a.m.

Russia's security chief says he has high hopes for Saturday's scheduled telephone call between Russian President Vladimir Putin and President Donald Trump.

Nikolai Patrushev  secretary of Russia's Security Council  is quoted by Russia's Interfax news agency as saying, "Everything will be positive."

The leaders' call will be their first official contact since Trump was sworn in as president.

The Kremlin has welcomed Trump's promises to mend ties with Moscow. Those ties have been strained by the Ukrainian crisis, the war in Syria and allegations of Russian meddling in the U.S. elections.
Anger erupts over Trump's order banning refugees from US

LONDON (AP)  Anger erupted on Saturday  along with some praise from the far-right  about U.S. President Donald Trump's ban on refugees entering the United States.

The French president vigorously urged European leaders to present a united front against populism while the German foreign minister noted that "love thy neighbor" is a key part of America's Christian traditions. Turkey's prime minister insisted that "you cannot settle this issue by building walls."

In Israel, meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu greeted Trump's plan to build a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border as a "great idea."

FILE- In this Tuesday, July 12, 2016 file photo Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai speaks to the Associated Press in Dadaab refugee camp, Kenya. Malala Yousafzai, shot in the head by the Pakistani Taliban in 2012 to stop her campaigning for girls' education and co-winner of the 2014 Nobel peace prize, says she is heart-broken by U.S. President Donald Trump's ban on refugees from entering the United States for four months. (AP Photo/Khalil Senosi, File)

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FRENCH PRESIDENT FRANCOIS HOLLANDE

"Europe is facing a moment of truth. The issue is populism. What we are hearing from the U.S. encourages populism and even extremism. They are saying that Europe should not take immigrants, shouldn't stay together, not believe in climate change.

"We should engage in discussions (with the U.S.) that sometimes should be very firm. And as long as there are statements from the U.S. president about Europe, when he speaks about the model of Brexit for other countries, when the U.S. president talks about climate change ... saying he's not convinced of it, we should respond to him. When he takes protectionist measures, we should respond to him. When he destabilizes the economies of other countries, not only European ones, we should respond to him. When he rejects the arrival of refugees, while Europe has done its duty, we should respond to him."

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TURKISH PRIME MINISTER BINALI YILDIRIM

"You cannot settle this (refugee) issue by building walls. Nobody leaves their homes for nothing."

Turkey has admitted some 3 million Syrian refugees since the start of the war in its neighbor.

"They came here to save their lives and our doors were open. And if the same thing happened again, we would do it again."

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NOBEL PEACE PRIZE WINNER MALALA YOUSAFZAI

Donald Trump should not "turn his back on the world's most defenseless children and families." Refugees and immigrants, she says "have helped build your country."

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IRANIAN PRESIDENT HASSAN ROUHANI

Those seeking to create walls between nations "have forgotten that the Berlin Wall collapsed years ago."

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GERMAN FOREIGN MINISTER SIGMAR GABRIEL

"'Love thy neighbor' is part of this (American Christian) tradition, the act of helping others."

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FRENCH FOREIGN MINISTER JEAN-MARC AYRAULT

"We have signed international obligations, so welcoming refugees fleeing war and oppression forms part of our duties."

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THE INTERNATIONAL RESCUE COMMITTEE

The agency is calling President Donald Trump's suspension of the U.S. refugee resettlement program a "harmful and hasty" decision. IRC President David Miliband says "America must remain true to its core values. America must remain a beacon of hope."

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NORWEGIAN REFUGEE COUNCIL

Trump's decision "will not make America safer, it will make America smaller and meaner."

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BRITISH PRIME MINISTER THERESA MAY

"The United States is responsible for the United States' policy on refugees."

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ISRAEL PRESIDENT BENJAMIN NETANYAHU

Netanyahu tweeted that Israel's wall along its border with Egypt had stemmed a swell of African migrants: "President Trump is right. I built a wall along Israel's southern border. It stopped all illegal immigration. Great success. Great idea."

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FAR-RIGHT DUTCH POPULIST GEERT WILDERS

In a tweet, the Dutch anti-Islam populist Wilders, whose Party for Freedom is polling strongly ahead of the country's March 15 election, says: "No immigrants from Islamic countries."

Spain's Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, left, puts on his earphones as France's President Francois Hollande delivers a statement at the end of an informal summit of southern European Union countries at Lisbon's Belem Cultural Center Saturday, Jan. 28 2017. The leaders of France, Italy, Spain, Greece, Portugal, Malta and Cyprus attended the meeting. (AP Photo/Armando Franca)

France's President Francois Hollande listens while Greece's Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras delivers a statement at the end of an informal summit of southern European Union countries at Lisbon's Belem Cultural Center, Saturday, Jan. 28 2017. The leaders of France, Italy, Spain, Greece, Portugal, Malta and Cyprus attended the meeting. (AP Photo/Armando Franca)

In this Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017 photo, released by the French Foreign ministry, French foreign minister Jean-Marc Ayrault, right, greets his newly appointed German counterpart, Sigmar Gabriel, before talks at the French Foreign Ministry in Paris, France. (Frederic de la Mure/French Foreign Ministry via AP)

In this Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017 photo, released by the French Foreign ministry, French foreign minister Jean-Marc Ayrault, left, greets his newly appointed German counterpart, Sigmar Gabriel, before talks at the French Foreign Ministry in Paris, France. (Frederic de la Mure/French Foreign Ministry via AP)

In this Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017 photo, released by the French Foreign ministry, French foreign minister Jean-Marc Ayrault, left, greets his newly appointed German counterpart, Sigmar Gabriel, before talks at the French Foreign Ministry in Paris, France. (Frederic de la Mure/French Foreign Ministry via AP)
Politico's Gabriel Debenedetti reported Thurdsday that national Democrats have largely "settled on a scorched-earth, not-now-not-ever model of opposition" to Senor Trumpanzee." I don't believe most of them are even capable of carrying it out or that most of them have the guts to try it but he claims that "[i]n legislative proposals, campaign promises, donor pitches and even in some Senate hearings, Democrats have opted for a hard-line, give-no-quarter posture, a reflection of a seething party base that will have it no other way." Really? Only 's Gabriel Debenedetti reported Thurdsday that national Democrats have largely "settled on a scorched-earth, not-now-not-ever model of opposition" to Senor Trumpanzee." I don't believe most of them are even capable of carrying it out or that most of them have the guts to try it but he claims that "[i]n legislative proposals, campaign promises, donor pitches and even in some Senate hearings, Democrats have opted for a hard-line, give-no-quarter posture, a reflection of a seething party base that will have it no other way." Really? Only 17 Senate Democrats opposed granting Mad Dog Mattis an exemption from a law that makes it illegal for a recent non-civilian to serve as Defense Secretary. And the only vote against confirming him was from a self-serving corporate shill who wants to run for president by recalling an uninformed Democratic base with her "progressivism" and courage. Only 11 Senate Democrats voted against confirming General John Kelly as Secretary of Homeland Security. Only 8 Senate Democrats were serious in their opposition to torture enthuseiast Mike Pompeo as head of the CIA. And only 4 Senate Dems voted against confirming Nikki Haley as the Ambassador to the UN. Doesn't sound very scorched earth/no-quarter to me. You?

According to interviews with roughly two dozen party leaders and elected officeholders, the internal debate over whether to take the conciliatory path-- to pursue a high-road approach as a contrast to Trumps deeply polarizing and norm-violating style-- is largely settled, cemented in place by a transition and first week in office that has confirmed the lefts worst fears about Trumps temperament.



They were entitled to a grace period, but it was midnight the night of the inauguration to 8 o'clock the next morning, when the administration sent out people to lie about numerous significant things. And the damage to the credibility of the presidency has already been profound, said Washington Gov. Jay Inslee. They were entitled to a grace period and they blew it. Its been worse than I could have imagined, the first few days."



That conclusion comes after two months of intra-party debates about how to outwardly treat the Trump White House, a process which played out not only in public but in private meetings and conference calls between leading party operatives, elected officials, and message crafters.



I predict the coming divide in the Democratic Party wont be ideological so much as it will be between those who resist and oppose and those who accommodate and appease, strategist David Brock told roughly 120 donors gathered in Florida to plot a path forward over the weekend... At a forum this week for candidates running to be the next Democratic National Committee chair, the very idea that the party should try to work with the new president was dismissed as absurd.



...Chicago mayor and former Barack Obama chief of staff Rahm Emanuel advocated a measured approach to Trump opposition, one in which Democrats choose only specific fights with a tight game plan. Sitting opposite Emanuel, former Joe Biden chief of staff Ron Klain shared his rules for a 100 Day Fight Club-- a battle royale he advocated to mark Trumps opening stretch, according to people in the room.



...Three days ago Donald Trump went from being a private citizen who tweets and criticizes to the establishment, said Ted Lieu, a Los Angeles-area congressman who has been vocally anti-Trump, to the point of introducing legislation to stop the new president from launching a nuclear first strike without passing it by Congress. He and the Republicans have unified control, and they own it. It is Trumps foreign policy, Trumps economy, Trumps healthcare plan. So he has to govern and in less than two years voters will go to the polls, and he has to own it.



We are very wary that this administration is trying to flood the zone with a whole lot of stuff that is very objectionable all at once, and make it very difficult by creating a cacophony of terribleness so that not one thing gets through. Its a tactic that they used on the campaign and they were fairly successful at doing so, so in a lot of ways we look at our jobs is focusing in on what we think are the most objectionable things," added Zac Petkanas, the director of the DNCs anti-Trump war room, which is currently taking on Trump's cabinet nominees, ties to Russia, and potential conflicts of interest.



Even so, strident anti-Trump Democrats worry that dealmakers like Senate Minority Leader Schumer will try to find agreements with the new president-- concerns that have been heightened by the cabinet confirmation process, in which Schumer has prioritized eight nominees rather than trying to gum up all of the picks at once.



In their view, a true opposition party in the Senate should grind all Republican movement to a halt. But that creates a problem for the senators leading the charge, who insist choosing their battles is the most effective way to kneecap Trumps agenda.



Opposing every nominee was not seriously on the table, it never has been. Thats not a test of whether or not youre resistant," said Hawaii Sen. Brian Schatz, noting that the party simply doesnt have the votes to stop many of them.



Democratic lawmakers have still found ways to embarrass Trump, by pushing to get Trumps nominees to disagree with the president, and introducing legislation aimed at disempowering him or forcing him to disclose personal information like tax returns. And by letting some of Trumps less objectionable picks through without a fight, like Housing and Urban Secretary nominee Ben Carson, senators believe they can inoculate themselves from the criticism of obstructionism often leveled at McConnell during Obamas presidency.

Trump doesn't care about being embarrassed; only about winning. And winning is what theDemocrats should be thinking about too. Grassroots Democrats are riled up , something that's likely to turn against collaborators like New Dem chief Jim Himes and Big PhRMA whore Cory Booker





Texas Observer that for the Democratic Party to move forward-- to be more than just the party that focuses on hating Trumpism-- Democratic office-holders have to listen to and talk with "the people who have been the bedrock of Democratic support for the better part of 70 years. I think that should cause us to assess whatever weve been doing. Nancy Pelosi has been able to leverage what is, relatively speaking, a weak negotiating position into significant concessions on funding bills. Shes also a terrific fundraiser. Congressional elections have become multimillion-dollar affairs, and shes been able to pump a lot of money into the party. But this is all a pretext for what Im going to say next. We need to do a much better job of listening to the people we represent and understanding their anxieties, and then be able to craft a legislative agenda and talk about it in a way that connects with constituents. I dont know that the same leadership team thats been in there for more than a decade and through four congressional cycles of loss can effectively do whats necessary for change." Meanwhile, we've been talking with Democrats around the country eager to take on Trumpism, from fired-up state legislators in Iowa, Wisconsin, Florida and Pennsylvania, states where Mercer's Cambridge Analytica was able to manipulate enough weak, simple-minded voters to give Trump his win, to elected officials in states as diverse as California and Texas. In fact, in Texas, one of Trump's most persistent antagonists, El Paso Congressman Beto O'Rourke is preparing to take on Ted Cruz in the 2018 Senate contest. This week, Beto told thethat for the Democratic Party to move forward-- to be more than just the party that focuses on hating Trumpism-- Democratic office-holders have to listen to and talk with "the people who have been the bedrock of Democratic support for the better part of 70 years. I think that should cause us to assess whatever weve been doing. Nancy Pelosi has been able to leverage what is, relatively speaking, a weak negotiating position into significant concessions on funding bills. Shes also a terrific fundraiser. Congressional elections have become multimillion-dollar affairs, and shes been able to pump a lot of money into the party. But this is all a pretext for what Im going to say next. We need to do a much better job of listening to the people we represent and understanding their anxieties, and then be able to craft a legislative agenda and talk about it in a way that connects with constituents. I dont know that the same leadership team thats been in there for more than a decade and through four congressional cycles of loss can effectively do whats necessary for change."

I remember my first official meeting at the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee-- Id just been sworn in. Steve Israel, who was the chair and a member of Congress from Long Island, laid out for [newly elected members] how we should do our job. When you broke down his daily agenda as to how we should be spending our time, more than half of it was fundraising. It showed me just how screwed up the place was. Because the opening conversation wasnt, Hey, I know you came here to improve [health care] access for veterans or pursue a smarter foreign policy or fix health care-- it was all about how to stay in office. It was absolutely disgusting to me. Its probably disgusting to Steve Israel. I dont think anybody likes it.



But its the system into which people were elected. I think thats the way most people look at it: to be reelected and to have any weight with the caucus they need to do these things, even if they find them distasteful. I spent about a half-session trying to figure out how to play that game, and then I gave up and stopped taking PAC checks. I decided I was going to sacrifice my ability to be a player in that large-dollar world and just focus on the issues I was excited to be there for.



I think with Americas disgust with politicians in general and congressional members in particular, and part of that connected to the obsession with money and with being re-elected, I think theres a golden opportunity for the Democratic Party to set itself apart and renounce Big Money. Its counterintuitive. It means you leave some big bucks on the table, but I think it could be inspirational and could become the brand that will set us apart.



...One thing Ive learned is that very rarely does the moral argument, which is the compelling one for me, persuade anybody. So I try to make the strongest economic argument that immigration is in Americas self-interest. Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals beneficiaries, for example, will earn $4 trillion in taxable income over their lifetimes, and Ive looked at what it would cost to deport them and what it would do to our economy should we lose them.



Those are things hopefully I can get Republicans to pay attention to. No state would be hurt more than Texas should we take a draconian turn on immigration enforcement, and its hard to imagine a more draconian turn than what we saw during the Obama administration, which deported more people than any previous administration.

I might mention that Beto may have a primary opponent for that Senate nomination. Joaquin Castro, a more cautious, collaborator type is sniffing around as well. He's hoping for a signal of some kind that the can win before spring when he promises a decision. He's the kind of weak loser who Texas Democrats feel comfortable losing with. If he's the candidate, Cruz is guaranteed 6 more years.





Some good polling news on the congressional front. Voters are repulsed by Trump and by Trumpism and buyers' remorse is huge already. According to a new survey released Thursday by PPP voters, by a nice healthy 48-40% margin, want to see Democrats take back Congress. Only 44% of voters see Trump favorably-- a shockingly low number for a new president-- and 50% already view him unfavorably. 35% are actually ready to see him impeached now! Voters don't like the agenda he's been pushing. Only 34% are willing to see American tax dollars pay for that idiotic wall of his. Now that the GOP is moving towards repealing the Affordable Care Act, support for keeping it now tops support for repealing it, 45-41%. Most Americans (59%) think the crooked prwsisdnet should release his tax returns and 61% say he needs to fully divest from his business interests.





Trump's ties to Russia continue to be a problem for him. Only 13% of voters have a favorable opinion of Russia, to 60% with a negative view of it. For Vladimir Putin himself, the numbers are even worse. Just 10% of voters see him positively, with 67% having an unfavorable opinion of him. Continued close ties to Russia could be a problem for Trump even with his own base-- among his voters Russia has a 20/47 favorability rating and Putin's is 15/55.

When asked who history will judge as a worse president, Trump is seen as worse than both Bushes, Clinton, Reagan, Obama, Carter and Jerry Ford! They think he'll be better than Nixon though. (They're wrong about that.)

In addition to losing out to all of his predecessors, Trump is also losing most of the fights he's picked recently. Voters say 58/21 that they think the intelligence agencies have more credibility than Trump, 50/40 that they think CNN has more credibility than Trump, and 46/41 that they have a higher opinion of the Today Show than Trump.



For the most part Americans don't buy claims about Trump having had the biggest crowds in history at his inauguration last weekend, although there's still a substantial portion of his base that goes along with him:



 Only 18% of voters overall think Trump's inauguration had the biggest crowd of any Presidential inauguration in history, to 62% who think it didn't. 34% of Trump voters do still say they think he had the biggest crowd ever though, to 32% who say he didn't, and 34% who aren't sure.



 Only 21% of voters overall think that Trump had a bigger crowd for his inauguration than Barack Obama, to 61% who think Obama had bigger crowds. 43% of Trump voters do still think that he had a bigger crowd for his inauguration though, to 26% who grant that it was Obama, and 32% who say they aren't sure.



 Only 29% of voters overall think that Trump's inauguration had a bigger crowd than the women's march, to 54% who think the women's march had a bigger crowd. 59% of Trump voters insist though that his inauguration had a bigger crowd than the women's march, to just 20% who say the march was bigger. Trump voters also have an explanation for why so many women turned out last weekend-- 38% think the marchers were paid to do so by George Soros, to 33% who say they don't think that was the case, and 29% who aren't sure.



The lying about crowd size has already taken a toll on Kellyanne Conway and Sean Spicer's credibility with the public. Conway has a 32% favorability rating, with 43% of voters viewing her negatively. By contrast when we polled on her a month ago she actually had a positive rating at 34/32, so she's had a 13 point net decline in the wake of 'alternative facts.' Spicer, who we polled for the first time, is seen favorably by 24% of voters and negatively by 37%.

Paul Ryan also has a terrible approval rating, just 33% to 43% who disapprove of the job he's doing. Miss McConnell fares even worse-- 15% approve and 52% disapprove. Congress as a whole also comes in at 15% approval-- with 65% disapproving.












49 African migrants rescued at sea, Spanish authorities say

MADRID (AP)  Spain's maritime rescue service says 49 African migrants have been rescued from a boat found 75 miles (120 kilometers) off the country's southern coast.

The migrants had been lost at sea since Thursday, Spanish government sources told The Associated Press on Saturday. After being tipped off by Moroccan authorities, the maritime rescue service was able to locate the boat late Friday.

Despite rough sea conditions, all 49 occupants arrived safely and in good health at Almeria port early Saturday, the maritime rescue service said.
Monk, abbot of rebel Greek monastery sentenced to 20 years

THESSALONIKI, Greece (AP)  A monk and the abbot of a Mt. Athos monastery deemed schismatic by the Greek Orthodox church have been sentenced in absentia to 20 years in prison by a court in this northern Greek city.

Antypas, one of 118 monks at the 1,000-year-old monastery, was sentenced for throwing firebombs at a court bailiff who was trying to evict the monks from a building in Karyes, capital of the Mt. Athos monastic community, in July 2013.

Abbot Methodios was convicted for incitement. Another six monks, sentenced to 10 years as accessories, were freed on appeal.

Antypas and Methodios will have to go to prison, if found, as the court decided that any appeal will not suspend their sentence.

The Esphigmenou monks are in a bitter dispute with the Istanbul-based Ecumenical Patriarch, spiritual leader of the world's Orthodox Christians, whom they accuse of treason for seeking better relations with the Catholic Church.

Patriarch Bartholomew I has created a new brotherhood and is trying to take possession of the monastery, but police efforts to dislodge the schismatic monks have failed.

"Esphigmenou monastery is our home; we will die there," one of the defendants told the court.
Kosovo president, Serb premier speak by phone

PRISTINA, Kosovo (AP)  Kosovo's president says he has spoken with Serbian Prime Minister Aleksandar Vucic in a telephone call aimed at normalizing their countries' ties.

Hashim Thaci on Saturday said they had agreed that "through dialogue they would solve all issues of bilateral interest."

Earlier this week, EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini called both countries' presidents and prime ministers to Brussels following increased tensions since December when the Serb minority erected a wall at a bridge in Mitrovica. Other incidents followed.
Bob Evans sat at a picnic table outside his friend Katherine Decker's motorhome in 1986, sobbing that his wife had died when his then-five-year-old daughter, Lisa, was just a baby.

But Evans hadn't been married to Lisa's mother. She wasn't his daughter, and her name wasn't Lisa. He also told Decker his name was Gordon Jenson.

Three decades later, authorities say only one part of his story was true: The girl's mother was dead.

They believe Evans killed her, along with at least five other women and children.

Authorities believe Bob Evans murdered five women and a child in the 1980's

'He really did cry. He'd cry and blow his nose and everything when he talked about it,' Decker recalled.

'I used to feel really bad all the time about it. Every time I saw him, I'd just feel sick.'

Evans  who over his lifetime had gone by different names  died in prison in 2010, eight years after he killed and dismembered his actual wife in Richmond, California.

On Thursday, authorities linked him to five earlier killings  the mother of the girl he called Lisa, and a woman and three children whose bodies were found in barrels in New Hampshire.

Those four have not been identified, but investigators say based on DNA evidence, one of the girls was Evans' daughter.

Evans was convicted of killing his wife Eunsoon, left, and is suspected of murdering his girlfriend Denise Beaudin and her daughter, and stuffing them in barrels

'What's clear is this is someone who targeted females and specifically children,' said Jeffery Strezlin, New Hampshire's senior assistant attorney general.

'He certainly fits the profile of a serial killer.'

In 1981, Evans was living with his girlfriend, Denise Beaudin, and her 6-month-old daughter, Dawn, in New Hampshire. All three disappeared just after Thanksgiving that year, but Beaudin's family never reported her missing because they believed the couple left town due to money troubles.

Though her body has not been found, authorities believe Evans killed Beaudin somewhere between New Hampshire and California, where, by 1985, he was living and working at an RV Park in Scotts Valley.

Decker, now 85, was staying at the park temporarily with her husband who was working for the state of California. In a phone interview Friday, the woman said she remembers Lisa as a friendly, outspoken child.

Investigators also believe Evans killed a woman (left) and three girls

The bodies of the woman and the three girls (two of whom are pictured) bodies were later found in barrels near a New Hampshire state park

A large green tent is seen in the back of a house on Hayward Street in Manchester, N.H., where authorities searched for clues in the missing person's case of Denise Beaudin

'She was always coming and sitting on my lap when I'd be sitting outside the motorhome on nice days,' said Decker. 'I had a little grandson who was her age and they used to play together all the time.'

The girl had no toys, Decker said. She and Evans slept in the back of a truck, in what Decker remembered as a shell of a camper that was open on one side.

'I don't understand how they could live like that. It was freezing cold,' she said. 'She was tattered and torn, she was a little ragamuffin.'

Evans frequently visited with Decker to have coffee. He never mentioned having lived in New Hampshire.

Police officers keep watch as an FBI agent walks by in Manchester, N.H., outside a house where authorities searched for clues in the missing person's case of Denise Beaudin

'I thought he was a weird guy but I thought he was nice, I didn't know any better,' Decker said.

In June 1986, Evans abandoned Lisa and fled. He later served about 18 months in jail for child abandonment, but took off after being paroled in 1990, authorities said. In 2003, he was convicted of killing Eunsoon Jun, whom he had married in an unofficial ceremony two years earlier. Her partially dismembered body was found in their basement, buried under cat litter.

'He could've done that to me,' Decker said. 'I had no idea, and I used to sit there and talk and talk to him.'

Lisa stayed with Decker's daughter and son-in-law for a short time and was later adopted. On Thursday, authorities released a statement from her saying she is happily married with three children of her own.

Decker said she has never forgotten the little girl who sat on her lap and called her 'Grandma.'
Puerto Rico gets more time to propose fiscal plan

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP)  A federal control board is giving Puerto Rico's government more time to figure out how to confront its financial crisis.

Saturday's action gives the territorial government a little more time to negotiate with creditors and stave off possible lawsuits. The deadline for presenting a fiscal plan moves to Feb. 28 instead of Jan. 15. And the moratorium on lawsuits now extends to May 31 instead of Feb. 15.

Gov. Ricardo Rossello says in a statement that the measure shows the government is "acting in a correct, transparent and responsible way."

The U.S. Congress created the board last year to oversee efforts to overcome an estimated $70 billion debt that has expanded during a decade-long recession. The board has said Puerto Rico should raise revenues and cut costs.
Deal reached to close Southern California airport

SANTA MONICA, Calif. (AP)  A Southern California city and the federal government on Saturday said they reached a deal to close Santa Monica's airport, ending a lengthy legal battle over the site.

Under the agreement, the city can close the airport after 2028 and carry out plans to turn the 227-acre property into a park, Santa Monica officials said.

In the meantime, the city can shorten the airport's single runway to 3,500 feet from its current length of nearly 5,000 feet, which means larger jets will no longer be able to take off or land, city officials said.

FILE - This Jan. 21, 2011 file photo shows an aircraft approaching Santa Monica Airport in Santa Monica, Calif. The city said Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017 that it has reached an agreement with the federal government to close the airport in December, 2028. Santa Monica spokeswoman Constance Farrell says the city aims to turn the 227-acre site into a large park. (AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes, File)

Santa Monica has long sought to shut the airport located amid residential neighborhoods in a seaside city of more than 90,000 people. Residents have raised concerns about noise, air pollution and the risk of planes crashing into neighborhoods.

Shortening the runway  which the city hopes to do within six months  will reduce jet operations by 44 percent, and jets are responsible for 95 percent of the noise complaints received by the city, said Mayor Ted Winterer.

"We think this is a big change for our community," Winterer told the Associated Press. "We can immediately shorten the runway, immediately reducing the impact."

The airport caters to private and chartered planes and has 90,000 take offs and landings a year. About 20 percent involve jets, said Santa Monica spokeswoman Constance Farrell.

Santa Monica has been trying to close the airport for decades. In recent years, the city has dueled in court over the future of the property with the Federal Aviation Administration, the agency tasked with regulating the country's airports.

Federal and local officials have feuded over a 1948 agreement over the transfer of airport property and a grant the FAA issued for airport improvements in 1994 that required the airport to operate for a determined period of time, according to federal court filings.

"This is a fair resolution for all concerned because it strikes an appropriate balance between the public's interest in making local decisions about land use practices and its interests in safe and efficient aviation services," FAA Administrator Michael Huerta said in a statement.
Los Angeles airport to get scanners to speed up security

LOS ANGELES (AP)  Los Angeles International Airport will be getting new fingerprint and iris scanners for passengers who want to speed through security lines.

The Los Angeles Times reports Saturday (http://lat.ms/2jh5Uzi ) that biometric screening company Clear will install kiosks by the end of March in Los Angeles and at Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport and Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.

The company's kiosks can confirm a traveler's identification in seconds. Passengers must pay an annual $179 fee to enroll and use the system.

Clear Chief Administrative Officer David Cohen says travelers who use the kiosks can head more quickly to the Transportation Security Administration's screening.

The company already operates in airports in San Francisco, Washington and New York.

___
Georgia parents found guilty of locking son in basement

LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. (AP)  A jury has convicted a suburban Georgia couple of child cruelty for locking their oldest son in a basement for nearly two years.

WSB-TV (http://2wsb.tv/2k1pxID ) reports jurors decided Friday in the case of Recardo and Therian Wimbush.

They locked their then-12-year-old son in a basement for 18 months as punishment and neglected to care for another son's malignant cancer. The Department of Family and Children Services acted on an anonymous tip in 2014 that led to their arrests.

The jury found them innocent of the four more serious first-degree cruelty charges but guilty on three counts of second-degree cruelty.

The Wimbushes, who served as their own attorney, face up to 30 years in prison.

A juvenile court will decide whether any of the couple's 10 children see their parents again.

___
PM Trudeau says Canada welcomes refugees

TORONTO (AP)  Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has a message for refugees rejected by U.S. President Donald Trump: Canada will welcome you.

He says he also intends to talk to Trump about the success of Canada's refugee policy.

Trudeau reacted to Trump's visa ban for people from certain Muslim-majority countries by tweeting Saturday: "To those fleeing persecution, terror & war, Canadians will welcome you, regardless of your faith. Diversity is our strength #WelcomeToCanada."

FILE - In this Dec. 11, 2015 file photo, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, left, greets Georgina Zires, center, Madeleine Jamkossian, second right, and her father Kevork Jamkossian, refugees fleeing from Syria, as they arrive at Pearson International airport, in Toronto. Trudeau has a message for refugees rejected by U.S. President Donald Trump: Canada will take you. He also intends to talk to Trump about the success of Canadas refugee policy. Trudeau reacted to Trumps ban of Muslims from certain countries by tweeting Saturday: To those fleeing persecution, terror & war, Canadians will welcome you, regardless of your faith. Diversity is our strength #WelcomeToCanada. (Nathan Denette/The Canadian Press via AP, File)

Trudeau also posted a picture of him greeting a Syrian child at Toronto's airport in late 2015. Trudeau oversaw the arrival of more than 39,000 Syrian refugees soon after he was elected.

A spokeswoman for Trudeau said he has a message for Trump.

"The Prime Minister is looking forward to discussing the successes of Canada's immigration and refugee policy with the President when they next speak," spokeswoman Kate Purchase told The Associated Press.

Trudeau is expected to the visit the White House soon.

The prime minister has refrained from criticizing Trump to avoid offending the new president. Canada wants to avoid becoming a target like Mexico has. More than 75 percent of Canada's exports go to the U.S.

Brad Wall, the conservative premier of the Canadian province of Saskatchewan, offered his support to Trudeau.

"Sask has welcomed approx 2000 refugees this past year," Wall posted on Twitter. "We stand ready to assist fed gov't re: anyone stranded by the US ban."

Toronto Mayor John Tory also weighed in, noting that the city is the most diverse in the world.

"We understand that as Canadians we are almost all immigrants, and that no one should be excluded on the basis of their ethnicity or nationality," Tory said in a statement.

Trump signed a sweeping executive order Friday that he billed as a necessary step to stop "radical Islamic terrorists" from coming to the U.S. Included is a 90-day ban on travel to the U.S. by citizens of Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia or Yemen and a 120-day suspension of the U.S. refugee program.

Trump's order singled out Syrians for the most aggressive ban, ordering that anyone from that country, including those fleeing civil war, are indefinitely blocked from coming to the United States.

White House National Security adviser Michael Flynn told Canada's national security adviser that holders of Canadian passports, including dual citizens, will not be affected by the ban, Purchase said.

"We have been assured that Canadian citizens traveling on Canadian passports will be dealt with in the usual process," Purchase said.

Trudeau later posted the statement on Twitter with the hashtag "ACanadianIsACanadian."

Earlier the U.S. State Department said that Canadians with dual citizenship from Iran, Iraq, Sudan, Somalia, Syria, Yemen and Libya would be denied entry for the next three months.

The Syrian refugee crisis became a major issue in Canada's election in late 2015 because of the haunting image of a drowned 3-year-old Syrian boy washed up on a Turkish beach. The boy had relatives in Canada. Tima Kurdi, the aunt of the boy who became a symbol of the Syrian refugee crisis, called the U.S. ban on Syrian refugees inhumane and said she was proud of Canada.
Tiger Woods has missed the cut in his first PGA Tour tournament in almost 18 months as Justin Rose leads at the halfway point of the Farmers Insurance Open.

The former world number one Woods exits at Torrey Pines after finishing his first two rounds on four over, four shots adrift of the cut.

76-72.



Tiger Woods will miss the cut in his first event of 2017. pic.twitter.com/xg9FyNgEja  PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) January 27, 2017

The damage was done on the opening day as a wayward back nine on the more testing South Course left him at four over and he was unable to claw any shots back on the North Course during the second round as his two birdies were cancelled out by bogeys on three and 12.

Tiger Woods shares his thoughts after Round 2 of the @FarmersInsOpen. pic.twitter.com/lXgLtOSpHs  PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) January 27, 2017

Woods has undergone two back operations since his last regular tour appearance in August 2015.

After a long lay-off he finally returned to tournament play at last months Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas but his rustiness was evident over the opening two rounds and he will not be around for the weekend action.

Its frustrating not being able to have a chance to win the tournament, he said on Sky Sports 4. Overall today was a lot better than yesterday, I hit it better, I putted well again. We fixed a few things while I was playing today which is good.

I need more rounds under my belt and more playing time and that is what I am trying to do.

Tiger Woods

Olympic champion Rose is having a much better time of it as he leads by one shot on eight under.

Rose, the overnight front runner, left it late to steal the lead as after two birdies were chalked off by back-to-back bogeys at 14 and 15, the Englishman sank a 10-foot birdie at the 18th to card a one-under-par 71.

Leader Justin Rose hit his first 10 greens on Friday.



"You can't really fake it around here."



The Upshot: https://t.co/eXsvZDd2G3 pic.twitter.com/25HDH1ptN7  PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) January 28, 2017

Birdie at the last for -1 on the South course... (-8 total 1st) Going to be a fun weekend. #TorreyPines #PGAtour pic.twitter.com/OzlWT0Vayy  Justin ROSE (@JustinRose99) January 28, 2017

I am happy with that to be honest, Rose said. I was going along really nicely and playing lovely and felt like I was in control but this golf course gets tough as you turn back into the breeze. It is really nice to finish with a birdie on 18.

Justin Rose

Woods will be made to feel better about his early exit by a host of other big names joining him in missing the cut.
Blue America's operating plan for 2017-18 is based on 2 simple premises-- first that Trump will be the worst and most destructive and hated president in history, and second, that Ryan, McConnell and the Republican Congress will drastically overreach, cement themselves to him, and make themselves vulnerable to a massive backlash in the 2018 midterms.





I spend a significant part of my days-- every day-- on the phone with perspective candidates, mostly for Congress, from around the country. I was even doing it when I was on vacation in Thailand last month. Sometimes its downright depressing. Many former candidates or activists who have worked for former candidates are bitter and filled with hopelessness because of the DCCC and DNC. More than I've ever seen, loathing for Pelosi and the DCCC is off the charts. Democrats around the country don't trust them and don't want anything to do with them. They routinely screwed over candidates everywhere and the corruption inside the DCCC is so overwhelming that potential candidates are almost unanimous is worrying that it isn't worth their time and effort to run before Pelosi and her failed, crumbling system are gone from the scene. Ironically, with Steve Israel now banished from Congress and no longer part of the DCCC-- he's at Third Way where he belongs-- the DCCC is showing early-- very early-- signs of a new beginning. I'm still skeptical but... no longer hopeless. Potential candidates aren't as tuned into the subtle changes and they're still hopeless.





Even in blue districts that the DCCC managed to lose because of their incompetence, venality, stupidity and corruption, candidates are reticent about what could turn out to be a banner year for Democrats, equivalent to the 2006 midterms, in which the Republicans lost 30 seats, forfeiting their majority and ousting Speaker Denny Hastert-- currently in prison after being convicted om charges stemming from decades of molesting underage boys-- and replacing him with Nancy Pelosi. In 2006, disgust with Bush and the GOP led to 42,338,795 votes being cast for Democratic congressional candidates, as opposed to 35,857,334 votes for Republicans. When the dust cleared, the Democrats held 233 seats and the Republicans 202, almost a mirror reflection of the 2004 results. Powerful and well-known Republicans, not just backbenchers, were swept out of office-- like Richard "Dirty Dick" Pombo (CA), Jim Leach (IA), John Sweeney (NY), northeast "moderates" Nancy Johnson (CT), Rob Simmons (CT), Jeb Bradley (NH), Charles Bass (NH), Sue Kelly (NY), Mike Fitzpatrick (PA) and far, far right doctrinaire extremists-- from J.D. Hayworth (AZ) and Charles Taylor (NC) to the 3 Indiana crackpots, Chris Chocola, John Hostettler and Mike Sodrel.





Recent polling shows that Trump and the congressional GOP are already creating the conditions for the kind of revulsion and backlash that not even DCCC incompetence can save them from. Trump's approval ratings, in poll after poll, are already circling the toilet in a way unprecedented for a new president:

This week, PPP released a more detailed poll showing how widespread anti-Trump sentiments are already hurting his party. Disapproval is 44% and expectations are very low. Voters expect him to be a worse president than Obama, Bush II, Clinton, Bush I, Reagan, Carter and Ford... though not as bad as Nixon. "Usually a new President comes in with voters having positive feelings and high expectations for them," said PPP President Dean Debnam. "Trump comes in with Americans expecting him to be the worst President in 40 years from Day 1." Voters are finally recognizing that he's a congenital liar and that his spokespersons, particularly Sean Spicer and Kellyanne Conway, are liars as well.

The lying about crowd size has already taken a toll on Kellyanne Conway and Sean Spicer's credibility with the public. Conway has a 32% favorability rating, with 43% of voters viewing her negatively. By contrast when we polled on her a month ago she actually had a positive rating at 34/32, so she's had a 13 point net decline in the wake of 'alternative facts.' Spicer, who we polled for the first time, is seen favorably by 24% of voters and negatively by 37%.







The upshot of all this is that 35% of voters already say they support impeaching Trump, to 50% who say they're opposed. We will continue to regularly poll on impeaching Trump as long as issues like his tax returns, business interests, and ties with Russia remain unresolved.



The ascendance of Republicans in Washington has voters already looking toward creating some balance of power in next year's election. Democrats lead the generic Congressional ballot 48/40. This is partly an outgrowth of Trump's unpopularity but it's also a function of GOP Congressional leaders being unpopular in their own right. Paul Ryan has a 33/43 approval rating, and that makes him look positively popular in comparison to Mitch McConnell's 15/52 rating. Congress as a whole comes in at 15% disapproval and 65% disapproval.





NY Times yesterday, Jennifer Steinhauer, highlighted how Ryan and the rest of the congressional Republicans are setting themselves up for a big fail by Writing for theyesterday, Jennifer Steinhauer, highlighted how Ryan and the rest of the congressional Republicans are setting themselves up for a big fail by fully embracing Trumpism and Trump . They're no longer treating him and his insane pronouncement "as essentially a distraction... [T]he question of whether congressional Republicans would change President Trump or Mr. Trump would change them has an early answer. Mr. Trump cheerfully addressed the group here at their policy retreat on Thursday, and they responded with applause to many proposals they have long opposed." And proposals most Americans oppose.

Republican lawmakers appear more than ready to open up the coffers for a $12 billion to $15 billion border wall, perhaps without the commensurate spending cuts that they demanded when it came to disaster aid, money to fight the Zika virus or funds for the tainted water system in Flint, Mich. They also seem to back a swelling of the federal payroll that Mr. Trump has called for in the form of a larger military and 5,000 more border patrol agents.



They have stayed oddly silent as Mr. Trump and Senate Democrats push a $1 trillion infrastructure plan, larger than one they rejected from President Barack Obama. Once fierce promoters of the separation of powers, Republicans are now embracing Mr. Trumps early governing by executive order, something they loudly decried during Mr. Obamas second term.



Speaker Paul D. Ryan, whose own website this week still praised the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal, now applauds Mr. Trump for putting the final shovel of dirt over the accord, with the president saying he is interested in bilateral agreements instead.



Many Republicans, who have been longstanding opponents of Russia and written laws that prohibit torture, have chosen to overlook, or even concur with, Mr. Trumps embrace of both. Even on the subject of Mr. Trumps call for an investigation into voter fraud, a widely debunked claim, Republicans have often demurred. The notion that election fraud is a fiction is not true, said the Senate majority leader, Mitch McConnell of Kentucky.



Mr. Trump said he could not wait for lawmakers to get to work on their newfound common ground. This Congress is going to be the busiest Congress weve had in decades, maybe ever, Mr. Trump said. In an apparent reference to forthcoming bills, he added, Were actually going to sign the stuff that youre writing. Youre not wasting your time.



...But it is the sudden embrace of federal spending that represents perhaps the most striking departure, with Republicans backing the concept of starting the financing for the border wall with a new appropriation.



And the list is much longer. By contrast, last year, Senator John Cornyn of Texas, the No. 2 Senate Republican, called Democrats request for $600 million in aid to Flint added to an energy bill a huge earmark, adding, I think its not something I could support, in keeping with most of his colleagues. Republicans also pushed for and partly succeeded in offsetting a bill to fight Zika last year.



The talk of a spending surge has left some Republicans worried about an exploding deficit. There are going to have to be some cuts, said Representative Jason Chaffetz of Utah. I am not interested in raising our spending levels.



Senator John Barrasso of Wyoming, the chairman of the Environment and Public Works Committee, seemed tense when asked about the open checkbook. Were a fiscally conservative group, he said of the committee. Were going to want to see things paid for.



Republicans are also at times confused about what Mr. Trump is actually seeking when he makes policy declarations on Twitter. Appears I think is the big word, said Representative Ryan Costello of Pennsylvania. I dont think anyone in the House of Representatives on the Republican side of the aisle wants to go through the legislative process, only to have the Trump administration send a bill back, he said.



Republicans had expected to reveal great progress on their plans to replace the health care act here, but instead seemed stuck in a perpetual debate over the timeline of coming up with a replacement. Senators in large part made a strong argument for making sure that a replacement plan had been fashioned before repealing the law, while many in the House continue to push for a repeal with replacement coming much later.
The widow of Sir John Hurt has said it will be a strange world without the veteran actor following his death at the age of 77.

Anwen Hurt said that the Oscar-nominated star died at his home in Norfolk on Wednesday after a battle with pancreatic cancer.

Sir John Hurt and wife Anwen Rees-Myers

In a statement to the Press Association, she said: It is with deep sadness that I have to confirm that my husband, John Vincent Hurt, died on Wednesday 25th January 2017 at home in Norfolk.

John was the most sublime of actors and the most gentlemanly of gentlemen with the greatest of hearts and the most generosity of spirit. He touched all our lives with joy and magic and it will be a strange world without him.

Sir John was well known for roles including Quentin Crisp in The Naked Civil Servant, the title role in The Elephant Man and wand merchant Mr Ollivander in the Harry Potter films.

It was terribly sad today to learn of John Hurt's passing. He was a truly magnificent talent.  Mel Brooks (@MelBrooks) January 28, 2017

No one could have played The Elephant Man more memorably. He carried that film into cinematic immortality. He will be sorely missed.  Mel Brooks (@MelBrooks) January 28, 2017

The British actor was nominated for two Academy Awards, for The Elephant Man and Midnight Express, and won four Bafta Awards, including a lifetime achievement accolade in recognition of his outstanding contribution to British cinema in 2012.

Oh no. What terrible news. We've lost #JohnHurt as great on the stage, small screen and big. A great man & great friend of Norfolk & #NCFC  Stephen Fry (@stephenfry) January 28, 2017

So so sad to have lost such an extraordinary talent and friend. Sir John Hurt. R. I. P. pic.twitter.com/J2eMMBVNLB  Richard E. Grant (@RichardEGrant) January 28, 2017

Sir John told the Press Association of his diagnosis in June 2015.

He said: I have always been open about the way in which I conduct my life and in that spirit I would like to make a statement.

I have recently been diagnosed with early stage pancreatic cancer. I am undergoing treatment and am more than optimistic about a satisfactory outcome, as indeed is the medical team.

I am continuing to focus on my professional commitments and will shortly be recording Jeffrey Bernard Is Unwell (one of lifes small ironies!) for BBC Radio 4.

I am not an animal, I am a human being... respect peace love #JohnHurt pic.twitter.com/a16gCwB84h  Daryl Hannah (@dhlovelife) January 28, 2017

John Hurt was one of the most powerful, giving, and effortlessly real actors I've ever worked with. Remarkable human being. U will be missed  Chris Evans (@ChrisEvans) January 28, 2017

My deepest sympathies to John Hurt's family, friends and fans. He was a dear friend.  Kiefer Sutherland (@RealKiefer) January 28, 2017

So very sad to hear that the immensely talented and deeply beloved John Hurt has died. My thoughts are with his family and friends.  J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) January 28, 2017

He later told the Radio Times: I cant say I worry about mortality, but its impossible to get to my age and not have a little contemplation of it.

Were all just passing time, and occupy our chair very briefly. But my treatment is going terrifically well, so Im optimistic.

I will forever cherish the memories I have of the incomparable John Hurt. A brilliant actor & a beautiful soul.  Jamie Bell (@1jamiebell) January 28, 2017

Rest In Peace John Hurt. What a wonderful actor and gentleman. Thank you for the memories.  Stan Collymore (@StanCollymore) January 28, 2017

Sir John enjoyed a big hit with sci-fi horror Alien in 1979 and his characters final scene has been frequently named as one of the most memorable in cinematic history.

He recently found new fans when he starred as a forgotten incarnation of the Doctor, known as the War Doctor, in Doctor Who.

He was knighted by the Queen for services to drama at an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle in 2015.

Sir John Hurt after being awarded a knighthood

Earlier this year Sir John pulled out of a production of John Osbornes play The Entertainer on medical advice, as he recovered from an intestinal complaint.

He had been due to play Billy Rice in the Kenneth Branagh Theatre Company production, directed by Rob Ashford.

However, he continued to work at a prodigious rate, starring in Jackie Kennedy biopic Jackie, thriller Damascus Cover and the upcoming biopic of boxer Lenny McLean, My Name Is Lenny.

He was also filming Darkest Hour, in which he starred as Neville Chamberlain opposite Gary Oldmans Winston Churchill.

Rest in peace, John Hurt. pic.twitter.com/98SndJJxyC  20th Century Studios (@20thcentury) January 28, 2017

So sad to hear John Hurt has passed away. Merlin, Potter, Who, Indiana...the man spanned so much of what has and will always inspire me. RIP  Scary Hope Fletcher (@CarrieHFletcher) January 28, 2017

God speed to John Hurt, a legendary actor and good human being.  Sharon Stone (@sharonstone) January 28, 2017

So so sad to hear the news about #JohnHurt

An absurdly gifted, brilliant actor and a very funny beautiful man

RIP John x  Stephen Moyer (@smoyer) January 28, 2017

Sir John, who played Caligula in the celebrated BBC drama I, Claudius, also racked up film hits in V for Vendetta, Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy and Hercules.

Other celebrated roles included his performance as Stephen Ward  a key figure in the Profumo affair  in Scandal and a reprisal of his role as Crisp for An Englishman In New York in 2009, 34 years after his original portrayal of the flamboyant figure.
The fall-out from President Donald Trumps immigration crackdown widened as residents and visa-holders from seven Muslim-majority countries who had left the United States found they could not return for 90 days.

It was a period of limbo for an unknown number of non-American citizens from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia or Yemen now barred from the country where they were studying or had lived, perhaps for years.

A federal law enforcement official who confirmed the temporary ban said there was an exemption for foreigners whose entry is in the US national interest. It was not immediately clear how that exemption might be applied.

President Donald Trump signs an executive order

I will be America's greatest defender and most loyal champion. -DJT pic.twitter.com/wukJ6YqvLu  President Trump 45 Archived (@POTUS45) January 28, 2017

Mr Trumps order exempts diplomats and those already in the US with a visa or green card will be allowed to stay.

Airlines were being notified by Customs and Border Protection about passengers they needed to prevent from flying.

Mr Trumps order barred all refugees from entering the US for four months, and indefinitely halted any from Syria. He said the ban was needed to keep out radical Islamic terrorists.

The next group of refugees was due to arrive in the US on Monday, but the official said they would not be allowed into the country.

The presidents order immediately suspended a programme that last year resettled in the US about 85,000 people displaced by war, political oppression, hunger and religious prejudice.

Mr Trump indefinitely blocked those fleeing Syria, where a civil war has raged, and imposed a 90-day ban on all immigration to the US from the seven Muslim majority nations.

Saddening to see a British Prime Minister walking hand in hand with Donald Trump on the day he turned America's back on Syria's refugees.  John McDonnell MP (@johnmcdonnellMP) January 28, 2017

We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas, he said as he signed the order at the Pentagon. We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people.

Mr Trump said the halt in the refugee programme was necessary to give agencies time to develop a stricter screening system.

The US may admit refugees on a case-by-case basis during the freeze, and the government will continue to process requests from people claiming religious persecution, provided that the religion of the individual is a minority religion in the individuals country.

In an interview with CBN News, Mr Trump said persecuted Christians would be given priority in applying for refugee status.

We are going to help them, Mr Trump said. Theyve been horribly treated.

The order was signed on Mr Trumps most robust day of national security and foreign policy at the start of his presidency.

There are tears running down the cheeks of the Statue of Liberty tonight. pic.twitter.com/X6q40dMCsN  Chuck Schumer (@SenSchumer) January 27, 2017

The Council on American-Islamic Relations said it would challenge the constitutionality of the executive order.

There is no evidence that refugees - the most thoroughly vetted of all people entering our nation - are a threat to national security, said Lena Masri, the groups national litigation director. This is an order that is based on bigotry, not reality.

During the past budget year, the US accepted 84,995 refugees, including 12,587 people from Syria. President Barack Obama had set the refugee limit for this budget year at 110,000. According to Mr Trumps executive order, he plans to cut that to 50,000.

I generally keep my political commentary to a minimum. But Trump's refugee ban is Un-American.  Jake Wood (@JakeWoodTR) January 28, 2017

The International Rescue Committee called the suspension of the refugee resettlement programme a harmful and hasty decision.

IRC President David Miliband said: America must remain true to its core values. America must remain a beacon of hope.
People are heading to temples and fairs across China to wish for good fortune at the start of the Lunar New Year.

(Victoria Jones/PA)

Thousands gathered at Beijings major temples on Saturday, the first day of the Year of the Rooster.

(AP/Ng Han Guan)

Wearing heavy winter coats, they lit incense sticks and bowed as they prayed for good fortune and health. As many as 80,000 people were expected at the Lama Temple in central Beijing.

(Victoria Jones/PA)

The capitals sprawling spring festival temple fair opened at Ditan Park, where empty tree branches were festooned with red lanterns and traditional goods and foods were for sale.

(Victoria Jones/PA)

Other New Year traditions include the eating of dumplings in northern China and the lighting of fireworks. Beijings government called on Communist Party cadres and government staff not to set off firecrackers due to environmental concerns.

(AP/Ng Han Guan)

Ethnic Chinese and others around the world have also marked the holiday with celebrations and visits to temples.

(AP/Achmad Ibrahim)

Large crowds gathered in Hong Kong and Malaysia on Friday night as the holiday began.

(AP/Lim Huey Teng)

In Rio de Janeiro, crowds watched a dragon dance and a performance of tai chi in front of a picture of Rios famous Christ the Redeemer statue. New York brought in the holiday with fireworks over the Hudson River.

(Victoria Jones/PA)

Chinese lanterns have been put out across streets to celebrate the new year.

(Victoria Jones/PA)

While crowds flocked to street stalls to picks up souvenirs.
Former England seamer Tim Bresnan starred as Perth Scorchers cruised to their third Big Bash League title in four years with a comprehensive nine-wicket victory over Sydney Sixers in the final at the WACA.

Bresnan was expensive from his allotted four overs but chipped in with three lower order wickets to blunt any hopes the Sixers had of a late charge as they ended on 141 for nine in Perth.

Doncaster-born Sam Whiteman creamed five fours and three sixes in a quickfire 41 in reply for the Scorchers, who coasted home with 25 balls to spare after Michael Klinger took over big-hitting responsibilities to finish on 71 not out from 49 deliveries.

Tim Bresnan

Last years final is the only time in six editions of the BBL that the Scorchers have not made it to the showpiece encounter, while they are the only franchise to have multiple wins in the competition.

This fixture was a repeat of the final from two years ago, when a fumbled run-out attempt off the very last ball allowed the Scorchers to scamper to the title.

What a way to seal victory! #BBLFinal pic.twitter.com/NuVPj323Cq  KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 28, 2017

There proved to be little tension this time around as the Sixers slipped to 17 for three after being put into bat although Brad Haddins 38 in a partnership of 57 with captain Moises Henriques (21) steadied proceedings.

Only Johan Botha, with 32, was able to reach double figures from the rest of Sydneys line-up however, his innings ending when he was caught at fine leg off Bresnan.

The Yorkshireman had four balls earlier cleaned up Ben Dwarshuis, after Sean Abbott had become his first wicket in his previous over, as he finished with figures of three for 40 to ensure the Sixers finished with a below par total.

STUMPED! A wonderful innings from Sam Whiteman comes to an end on 41. Lyon with the breakthrough. Scorchers 1-75 (7.3) #BBLFinal pic.twitter.com/78BGZmb1Iu  KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 28, 2017

In response, Whiteman, who was born in South Yorkshire but emigrated with his family to Western Australia at an early age, went six-four-four-four off Australia international Jackson Bird in the second over to ignite Perths charge.

His downfall, stumped after coming down the wicket to Nathan Lyon, failed to stop the Scorchers in their tracks, with Klinger picking up the mantle.
US President Donald Trump and German Chancellor Angela Merkel have agreed on the fundamental importance of Nato to trans-Atlantic relations and the need for all members to pay their fair share, according to the White House.

The leaders also discussed the situation in the Middle East and North Africa, relations with Russia and the Ukraine crisis during what was described as an extensive telephone conversation.

In previous remarks, Mr Trump has dismissed Nato as obsolete, though during British prime minister Theresa Mays visit to Washington on Friday, she said the president had assured her he was 100% behind Nato.

(Andrew Harnik/AP)

.@POTUS speaks with German Chancellor Merkel from the Oval Office. One of five heads of government calls today pic.twitter.com/xMNl3A3Iw0  Kayleigh McEnany 45 Archived (@PressSec45) January 28, 2017

Mr Trump and Mrs Merkel agreed to deepen German-US relations and increase cooperation in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism.
Kremlin says White House did not consult it on Syria safe zone plan

MOSCOW, Jan 26 (Reuters) - The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump did not consult Russia before announcing a plan to establish safe zones for refugees in Syria, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Thursday.

"No, our American partners did not consult with us. It's a sovereign decision," Peskov said on a conference call with reporters.
American Airlines, Qantas may revive joint venture plan under Trump

By Sue-Lin Wong and Jamie Freed

BEIJING/SYDNEY, Jan 27 (Reuters) - American Airlines Group Inc and Australia's Qantas Airways Ltd may reapply to the U.S. Transportation Department for permission to coordinate prices and flight schedules now the Trump administration is in charge, Qantas Chief Executive Alan Joyce said.

The pair's application for a joint venture covering the United States, Australia and New Zealand markets was rejected in November under the Obama administration amid opposition from rival carriers Hawaiian Airlines Inc and JetBlue Airways Corp.

During its earnings call on Friday, American said it intended to refile its application for a joint venture with Qantas.

"We do plan to refile the application with Qantas," said Steve Johnson, American's Executive Vice President of Corporate Affairs. "It probably is a few weeks down the road ... but we are looking forward to doing that and having another opportunity to make our case."

American Airlines shares sagged on Friday after the carrier released its fourth-quarter and full-year 2016 results, as mounting costs and growing wage pressures spooked investors.

The alliance would have the largest share of seats between 200 pairs of cities, and account for nearly 60 percent of all seats between the United States and Australia, the department said.

U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to boost American industry through lighter regulation and his administration may take a more hands-off approach to anti-trust enforcement.

"What we need to do is work out the implications, which we are still working through and then talk about what we will do and review our options with the Trump administration," Qantas' Joyce told Reuters in Beijing on Thursday. "When we do, we will make an announcement of what our intentions are."

Citi analyst Anthony Moulder said the inability to coordinate pricing meant the American Airlines flights between Australia and the United States were being sold at lower prices than Qantas flights, pressuring the Australian carrier.

"I think it has just taken perhaps a little bit longer than (American Airlines) would have hoped to where their offering has similar yields," he said.
Starvation looms for 6 mln children in Horn of Africa, charity says

By Katy Migiro

NAIROBI, Jan 27 (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - Hunger, malnutrition and death threaten 6.5 million children in the impoverished drylands of Somalia, Ethiopia and Kenya due to back-to-back droughts, a charity said on Friday, with spring rains also predicted to be poor.

Repeated rain failures have pushed 15 million people across the three countries into crisis, and in need of aid, as their animals are dying and water is in short supply, Save the Children said in a statement.

"The situation for already desperate children and families in Somalia, Ethiopia and Kenya will only get worse - leaving millions at risk of hunger, and even death," the charity's Ethiopia country director, John Graham, said.

The next rainy season is likely to bring more below-average rainfall across the region, experts predict.

Almost 500,000 children already have severe acute malnutrition, Save the Children said, which means they risk dying without emergency intervention.

Donors, political leaders and the new United Nations Secretary Antonio Guterres are meeting at the African Union (AU) summit which opens on Monday in Ethiopia.

Guterres was the U.N.'s refugee chief during Somalia's 2011 famine, in which 260,000 died due to drought, conflict and a ban on food aid in territory held by the Islamist militant group, al Shabaab.

The U.N. warned this month that Somalia, crippled by decades of war, risks slipping back into famine as five million people, or more than four out of 10 residents, do not have enough food.

Fighting between al Shabaab and Somalia's AU-backed government continues, with 28 killed on Wednesday in an attack in the capital, Mogadishu.

AU and Somali troops have driven al Shabaab from major urban strongholds and ports, but they have often struggled to defend smaller, more remote areas from attacks.

Thousands of Somalis are on the move in search of food and water, many crossing into Ethiopia for assistance, charities say.

Save the Children said there are high rates of malnutrition among children on arrival in Ethiopia's vast Dollo Ado camp.

Many Somalis have been living in exile for three decades, with almost one million in refugee camps in nearby Ethiopia, Kenya, Djibouti and Uganda, where food is also in short supply due to lack of funding.

In Ethiopia, hard hit by drought in 2016, almost six million people need aid. The Kenya Red Cross Society launched an appeal to the public on Friday for 1 billion Kenyan shillings ($9.6 million) to provide food vouchers and cash to thousands of hungry families in the north and along the coast.

As livestock deaths are increasing, weak animals will also be slaughtered and the meat donated to schools, orphans, the elderly and sick, it said.

It predicted the number of Kenyans without enough to eat would almost double by April to 2.4 million from 1.3 million.
British PM May to raise trade, security with Turkey's Erdogan

ANKARA, Jan 28 (Reuters) - Prime Minister Theresa May will meet Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday to discuss trade and security, her spokeswoman said, part of a charm offensive to bolster her hand in negotiations to leave the EU.

A day after meeting U.S. President Donald Trump when she won his approval and some assurances on economic cooperation, May heads to Ankara to launch a joint working group to prepare the ground for a new trade relationship after Brexit.

Her spokeswoman said May and Erdogan would discuss two key themes: "(They) will be discussing a new trade relationship following the UK's exit from the EU", and "they are expected to agree to ... a strategic security partnership."

May's government is keen to start laying the groundwork for bilateral trade agreements for when Britain leaves the European Union - a process that will take at least two years after triggering the formal divorce talks by the end of March.

May's spokeswoman said Turkey would be the 13th country to set up a working group on trade with Britain.

British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson said on a visit to Ankara last year that he hoped for a "jumbo" free trade deal with Turkey after Brexit. While Ankara is not a member of the European Union, it aspires to join the bloc and has a customs union with it.

The United Kingdom was the second-largest destination for Turkish exports in 2015, buying $10.6 billion in goods, according to IMF trade data. Only Germany imports more from Turkey.

Asked whether May would raise human rights concerns since last July's failed coup, the spokeswoman said Britain had "expressed our strong support for Turkey's democracy and institutions following the coup."

"But we have also been clear that we urge Turkey to ensure that their response is proportionate, justified and in line with international human rights obligations."
Energy pipelines back in investor favor after Trump orders

By Devika Krishna Kumar and Catherine Ngai

NEW YORK, Jan 27 (Reuters) - Investors have rushed back into North American pipelines after U.S. President Donald Trump revived growth prospects in a sector that struggled to cope with a two-year oil price slump and strident opposition from environmental and Native American activists.

Investor confidence in the industry was shaken last year when the administration of former President Barack Obama halted the $3.8 billion Dakota Access Pipeline, just as Energy Transfer Partners had nearly finished building it. Protesters have rallied for months against plans to route the Dakota Access pipeline under a lake near the Standing Rock Sioux reservation in North Dakota, saying it threatened water resources and sacred Native American sites.

A year earlier, Obama rejected TransCanada Corp's C$8 billion ($6.08 billion) Keystone XL project, which would ship oil from Canada to U.S. refiners.

Trump sought to smooth the way for both projects with executive orders on Tuesday as he made good on campaign promises to drive infrastructure investment throughout the world's largest economy.

The orders sparked a rally in indices that track pipeline companies to a more than 14-month high.

The shares of firms that build the pipelines and storage tanks such as Magellan Midstream Partners and Enterprise Products Partners have rallied as much as 9 percent in the days following Trump's orders.

Those gains came on top of a rally of about 13 percent in these firms since Trump's surprise election victory on Nov. 8.

"Energy companies can invest more confidently over the next four years with less concern over federal delays," said Libby Toudouze, a portfolio manager at Cushing Asset Management. The firm manages around $2.7 billion of investments in pipeline and energy transport and storage firms.

"I do think we are going to see a good consistent flow of new investors coming into this (pipeline) space for next 3-5 years."

The top picks for investors include Valero Energy Partners LP, Phillips 66 Partners LP and MPLX LP .

Energy infrastructure companies, once a darling of the industry, had languished in 2015 and early 2016 as oil prices plummeted to multiyear lows.

These firms, often structured as master limited partnerships (MLPs), are typically the vehicles used by investors to gain exposure to the pipeline industry.

MLPs are a tax-exempt corporate structures that pay out profit to investors in dividend-style distributions. Investors have funneled billions of dollars into the infrastructure industry through them since the shale boom began.

BLISTERING RALLY

The Alerian MLP index, which tracks a number of pipeline firms including Magellan, Enterprise, Energy Transfer Partners and Plains All American Pipeline LP, has risen more than 17 percent since Trump's election, including a 6 percent rally this week to the highest level since November 2015.

The pipeline sector has outperformed both oil and gas producers and the S&P 500 index, which have risen about 13 percent and 7.5 percent, respectively, since the U.S. election.

"You don't have to take a lot of risk in the MLP space at this point to make outsized returns ... so it's an interesting time and a unique opportunity in the MLP space," said Matt Sallee, a portfolio manager at Tortoise Capital.

The Alerian index rose 9 percent in 2016 as oil prices rose, OPEC and non-OPEC exporters announced supply cuts, and on Trump's election. That came after a crash of more than a third in 2015.

Mutual and exchange traded funds' investment in MLPs crashed to $3.8 billion in 2015 before recovering to about $6.2 billion last year, according to Morningstar.

The revival in U.S. shale activity sparked by the recovery in oil prices has also given pipeline companies a boost and opened the way to further development. Significant challenges remain - activists plan to take their fight to the courts on a state-by-state basis, which could bog down future developments.

But for now, investors see room for the value of pipeline firms to go higher.

"We think drilling is going to expand in the U.S. and will need plenty of new infrastructure, particularly in the Permian Basin," said Jay Hatfield, portfolio manager of the InfraCap MLP ETF. MLPs were around 60 percent undervalued compared with BBB bonds which usually fetch the same yield, he added.

Already, pipeline companies such as Plains All American have announced large deals and expansions in the Permian, the biggest shale play in the United States.
A precision airstrike conducted recently by manned and unmanned U.S. aircraft against a training camp in Syrias Idlib province killed more than 100 al-Qaida fighters, said Pentagon spokesman Navy Captain Jeff Davis.

In a statement, Davis said the Shaykh Sulayman training camp had been operational since at least 2013. The removal of this training camp disrupts training operations and discourages hardline Islamist and Syrian opposition groups from joining or cooperating with al-Qaida on the battlefield, said Captain Davis.

Since January 1, U.S. strikes have killed more than 150 al-Qaida terrorists including:

Mohammad Habib Boussadoun al-Tunisi, an external operations leader, killed January 17, was involved in facilitating Islamic extremism and external operations and had been connected to terrorist plots to attack Western targets.

Al-Tunisi arrived in Syria in 2014 after spending several years in countries across Europe and the Middle East, where he maintained ties with multiple Islamic extremists, according to Pentagon Press Secretary Peter Cook. The terrorist's death, Cook said, will degrade al-Qaida's pool of experienced, well-connected facilitators and fighters with external operations experience.

Abd al-Jalil al-Muslimi, a facilitator associated with a network plotting terror attacks in the west, was killed January 12. Muslimi, a Tunisian, was trained by the Taliban in the late 1990s, when he facilitated travel for the terror group, according to Press Secretary Cook. Muslimi also had extensive and long-standing ties to numerous al-Qaida external operations planners and terrorists. Muslimi's role will be difficult for al-Qaida to fill, Mr. Cook said, and the United States will continue to take action to deny these terrorists a safe haven in Syria from which to plot to attack the United States, its allies, or its interests.

These strikes, conducted in quick succession, degrade al-Qaida's capabilities, weaken their resolve, and cause confusion in their ranks, said Captain Davis. We will continue to exert unrelenting pressure to defeat violent extremist groups across the globe.
Syrian army seizes Damascus water source as rebels withdraw - pro-gov't media, monitor

BEIRUT, Jan 28 (Reuters) - Syrian government forces took back control of an area near Damascus that provides most of the capital's water supplies after reaching a deal for rebel fighters to withdraw, pro-government media and a monitoring group said.

The Syrian army and its allies launched an offensive last month to drive insurgents from the Wadi Barada valley, which they have controlled since 2012, and to recapture a major spring and pumping station.

Syria's mainstream rebel factions are under intense pressure after losing areas they held in the northern city of Aleppo to government forces at the end of last year, and now face a fierce assault by Islamist militants elsewhere.

Wadi Barada, which lies northwest of Damascus, has become one of the fiercest battlefronts in Syria's civil war. Disruption to water supplies, including infrastructure damage, has caused acute shortages in the capital this month.

Government forces entered the village of Ain al-Fija, where the spring and pumping station are located, early on Saturday, a military media unit run by Lebanese group Hezbollah, an ally of Damascus, reported.

"The Syrian army has entered Ain al-Fija ... and raised the Syrian flag over the spring installation," a statement by the unit said, adding that the development was due to a deal reached with insurgents by which the rebels would leave the area.

Teams were preparing to enter Ain al-Fija to fix the pumping station and the army had secured control of the village, it added.

INTENSE FIGHTING

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a British-based war monitoring group, said government forces had begun moving into the spring area as rebel fighters withdrew.

Under the deal reached between the government side and local representatives, rebels hailing from outside the Wadi Barada area would leave for the northwestern province of Idlib, an insurgent stronghold, carrying light weapons, the Observatory said.

Rebels from Wadi Barada would be allowed to leave too, but could also opt to stay and serve with pro-government forces, it added.

The Syrian government has struck similar local ceasefire deals with the opposition in several western parts of the country, usually involving the transfer of rebel fighters and their families to Idlib.

The opposition has said the process amounts to forced population transfer.

Intense fighting raged for weeks in Wadi Barada, and knocked the water spring out of service in late December.

The United Nations has said "infrastructure was deliberately targeted", without saying who was responsible, leaving four million people in Damascus without safe drinking water. It warned the shortages could lead to outbreaks of waterborne disease.

Rebels and activists have said government bombardment damaged the spring. The government said insurgent groups polluted it with diesel, forcing the state to cut supplies.
France, Germany concerned about Trump's moves to limit refugees

By John Irish

PARIS, Jan 28 (Reuters) - France, Germany and Luxembourg voiced disquiet on Saturday over U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to limit immigration and refugees from some Muslim countries, with Berlin and Paris also reaffirming a firm line on Russian sanctions.

Speaking at a joint news conference in Paris with his German counterpart Sigmar Gabriel, French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault said many of Trump's decisions worried the two U.S. allies, including new immigration restrictions.

Trump on Friday signed an executive order that will curb immigration and refugees from some Muslim-majority countries and he separately said he wanted the United States to give priority to Syrian Christians fleeing the civil war there.

"This can only worry us, but there are many subjects that worry us," Ayrault said, adding that he would soon invite his future American counterpart Rex Tillerson to Paris to explain Europe's interests, values and vision of the world.

"Welcoming refugees who flee war and oppression is part of our duty," Ayrault said.

Germany has taken in more than one million refugees and migrants, mainly from the Middle East, since 2015.

Although traditionally open to asylum seekers, France has taken in far fewer refugees than Germany since the migrant crisis erupted. Some in the French government, mostly ex-premier Manuel Valls, criticising Berlin's open-door policy, as has Trump.

"The United States is a country where Christian traditions have an important meaning. Loving your neighbour is a major Christian value, and that includes helping people," said Germany's Gabriel, who was on his first trip abroad since his nomination as foreign minister.

"I think that is what unites us in the West, and I think that is what we want to make clear to the Americans."

Luxembourg Foreign Minister Jean Asselborn said Trump's order would have negative consequences.

"The American president is dividing the Muslim world into good and evil with this," Asselborn told the Tagesspiegel German newspaper. "The decision is also bad for Europe because it will increase the Muslim world's mistrust and hatred of the West."

The two countries also reiterated their position on Russian sanctions, saying they could only be lifted if progress was made in the peace process for eastern Ukraine, where a pro-Russian separatist insurgency began in 2014.

They joined British Prime Minister Theresa May in cautioning Trump against premature moves on the issue.

"Let's not forget there was a war, that Russia sought to take over parts of Ukraine," Ayrault said.

Trump said on Friday he was only in the early stages of considering whether to lift U.S. sanctions on Russia, but insisted he wanted to follow through on his campaign pledge to pursue better relations with Russia.

The French and German ministers also said the United Nations remained the best framework to lead peace talks about Syria in the aftermath of Russian-led efforts in the Kazakh capital Astana that some diplomats say might undermine the UN process.

Separately, Germany and France are also continuing to work on creating a joint tactical airlift pool of Lockheed Martin Corp C-130J military transport planes, a spokesman for the German defence ministry said on Saturday.

He could not confirm a report in Der Spiegel news magazine that the two countries expected to complete work on the deal and present it to U.S. Defense Secretary James Mattis at a meeting of NATO defence ministers in Brussels next month.

The magazine said German Defence Minister Ursula von der Leyen hoped to present the joint airlift as evidence of Germany's willingness to contribute more to NATO.
Britain's May calls on Turkey to maintain human rights after coup

ANKARA, Jan 28 (Reuters) - It is important for Turkey to maintain human rights and the rule of law following a failed coup attempt last year, UK Prime Minister Theresa May said on Saturday after meeting President Tayyip Erdogan.

In a statement to reporters after the talks in the presidential palace, and as Erdogan looked on, May said she was "proud" that Britain had stood by Turkey in defence of its democracy during the July 15 abortive putsch.

"Now it is important that Turkey sustains this democracy by maintaining the rule of law and upholding its human rights obligations," she said.
UAE says it destroyed Iranian-built drone in Yemen - state news agency

DUBAI, Jan 28 (Reuters) - The air force of the United Arab Emirates shot down an Iranian-made drone in Yemen, state news agency WAM reported on Saturday, quoting a Yemeni military officer.

The UAE is a member of a mostly Gulf Arab military coalition led by Saudi Arabia that is backing Yemen's internationally recognised government in a nearly two-year war against the Iran-allied Houthi group.

It appeared to be the first time the coalition had accused the Houthis of deploying drones made by their regional arch-rival Iran.

"Yemeni forces ... spotted preparation to launch the plane from atop a light transport vehicle and coordinated and communicated with the UAE air force operating in Yemen, which did its part in dealing with the plane, destroying it with an air-to-land missile," WAM quoted the officer saying.

Major General Ahmed Saif al-Yafei added that the incident occurred in the area around the Red Sea port of al-Mokha, the scene of heavy fighting between Houthi and Gulf-backed Yemeni forces this week.

There was no immediate reaction to the allegation by Iran or the Houthi group, which has repeatedly denied Gulf Arab accusations that it serves an Iranian agenda in Yemen or has been armed by the Islamic Republic.
Lyon's title hopes hit by Lille defeat

PARIS, Jan 28 (Reuters) - Olympique Lyonnais's slim Ligue 1 title hopes suffered a setback when Yassine Benzia netted a double to give visitors Lille a 2-1 win on Saturday.

Algeria forward Benzia, who turned professional at Lyon before joining Lille in 2015, scored in each half as the northerners pulled away from the relegation zone.

The result left Lyon, who reduced the arrears through Alexandre Lacazette, in fourth place with 37 points from 21 matches, 11 behind leaders Monaco, who visit champions Paris St Germain on Sunday.

Lille have 26 points and now lie five points above the drop zone.

The hosts got off to a good start, with new signing Memphis Depay being a constant threat to the Lille defence. Mathieu Valbuena was in great shape, too, and saw his free kick hit the bar in the ninth minute.

Lyon, however, fell behind seven minutes before the interval when Benzia's low shot took a slight deflection off Mapou Yanga- Mbiwa and went past Anthony Lopes.

In the 71st minute, Benjamin Cornet's cross was deflected by Lille keeper Vincent Enyeama into the path of Valbuema, but the France international's shot from close range again crashed onto the bar.

OL pushed but Benzia doubled the advantage when he converted a penalty in the 80th minute after Sebastien Corchia had been brought down.

Lyon pulled a goal back as France striker Lacazette scored his 18th league goal with a penalty four minutes from time.
The Knights of Malta-Vatican feud: a tale of chivalry and sovereignty

By Philip Pullella

VATICAN CITY, Jan 30 (Reuters) - On the afternoon of Jan. 24, a black BMW pulled out of a 16th century palace in Rome, crossed the Tiber River and headed for the Vatican, a short trip to end a brazen challenge to the authority of Pope Francis.

Inside the car was 67-year-old Englishman Matthew Festing, the head of an ancient Catholic order of knights which is now a worldwide charity with a unique diplomatic status.

Festing was about to resign, the first leader in several centuries of the Order of Malta, which was founded in 1048 to provide medical aid for pilgrims in the Holy Land, to step down instead of ruling for life.

The move was aimed at ending a highly-public spat between Festing and the reformist pope over the running of the chivalric institution. The weeks-long conflict had become one of the biggest internal challenges yet to Francis' efforts to modernize the 1.2 billion member Roman Catholic Church.

At issue was the Order's reaction to the discovery that condoms had been distributed by one of its aid projects in Myanmar. The Order had fired its Grand Chancellor, Albrecht Freiherr von Boeselager, whom it held responsible for the condom distribution. Von Boeselager declined to comment for this article.

Though condom use goes against Catholic teaching, the Vatican had ordered an investigation into the firing of von Boeselager. It subsequently publicly castigated Festing, who had refused to cooperate with the investigation.

Backing down, Festing -- a former Sotheby's art auctioneer -- gave a hand-written resignation letter to Francis in the pope's private residence, according to a senior Vatican source. Festing, who has the title of prince, declined an interview request.

Instead of quelling the conflict, however, Festing's resignation was followed by yet another challenge to Francis' authority -- led by vocal pope critic American Cardinal Raymond Leo Burke, according to Vatican and Knights sources.

In particular: Burke tried to convince Festing to withdraw his resignation and keep fighting the pope, these sources say. On Saturday, the Knight's Sovereign Council accepted Festing's resignation and re-instated von Boselager, a clear defeat for Burke.

Burke declined to comment for this article.

The tussle suggested Francis is still battling to consolidate his power over the Church almost four years into his tenure, Vatican insiders say.

Beyond a fight over condoms, the clash pointed to lingering divisions between the Church's conservatives and more progressive factions who support the pope's reformist agenda, they add.

Francis is trying to make the Church less dogmatic and more welcoming to whose who have felt excluded, such as homosexuals and the divorced.

"While this whole saga was an internal matter that probably should have stayed that way, it metamorphosed into a clash that showed the divide between conservatives and progressives," said Andrea Tornielli, author of several books on Pope Francis.

The Vatican declined to comment on the clash and on Pope Francis' efforts to consolidate his power.

It directed Reuters to two public statements. One, on Dec. 22, relates to the Vatican order to investigate the firing of von Boeselager. The second, on Jan. 17, followed a pledge by Festing on the Knights' web page not to cooperate with the Vatican. It decried his resistance and ordered members of the order to cooperate.

GERMAN ARISTOCRAT

The all-male top leaders of the Knights of Malta are not clerics, but they take vows of poverty, chastity and obedience to the pope.

A German aristocrat whose father participated in a failed plot to kill Hitler in World War Two, von Boeselager was fired by Festing in December, and accused of having allowed the use of condoms while he was head of the Knights' global humanitarian projects.

Festing fired him in Burke's presence, arguing that the German had hidden the condom use from the order's leaders when he was named Grand Chancellor, according to Knights and Vatican sources.

Immediately, the firing set off the conflict between the Knights' hierarchy and the Vatican.

Von Boeselager , a devout Catholic, said in a statement on Dec. 23 that he was fully behind Church teachings. He closed two projects in the developing world when he discovered condoms were being distributed but kept a third running in Myanmar for a while because closing it would have abruptly ended all basic medical services to poor people.

The Church does not allow condoms as a means of birth control and says abstinence and monogamy in heterosexual marriage is the best way to stop the spread of AIDS.

In the same statement, von Boeselager said Festing and Burke told him the Vatican wanted him to resign and that there would be "severe consequences" for the Order if he did not.

The Vatican denied, in a letter from its secretary of state to the Order and seen by Reuters, that it had mandated the resignation, saying it had told the Knights the pope wanted a solution through dialogue.

The German said his sacking was against the Knights' constitution and appealed to the pope, who ordered the investigation.

Festing refused to cooperate, issuing a series of increasingly strident public statements. In one, he called the papal commission that was investigating the firing "legally irrelevant".

In a Jan. 14 confidential letter to the top echelons of the order and seen by Reuters, Festing wrote: "In refusing to acknowledge this group of people's jurisdiction, I am trying to protect the order's sovereignty".

The institution has the status of a sovereign entity, maintaining diplomatic relations with over 100 states and the European Union and permanent observer status at the United Nations.

The pope was irritated by Festing's defiant stand, a senior Vatican source said, and the Vatican shot back with a public statement ordering the Knights to obey.

After that public order, Festing changed his tune and resigned in the pope's residence a week later.

Festing's resignation came as a shock for many inside the Knights: some of them told Reuters it was akin to the resignation of Pope Benedict in 2013.

Four sources said that for many others in the order, it came as a relief. They feared the clash was damaging the image of the institution whose 13,000 members, 80,000 volunteers and 20,000 paid medical staff help the neediest around the world.

The day after Festing handed his resignation to the pope, Cardinal Burke drove to the order's headquarters from his apartment near the Vatican and sought to persuade Festing to withdraw his resignation, a source from the Vatican and one from the Knights said.

Burke declined to comment on his meeting with Festing.

Burke has long been leading challenges against the pope. Pope Francis demoted him from a top Vatican job in 2014 with no official explanation and assigned him to be the "patron" of the Order of Malta.

Such "patron" positions are usually given to older cardinals after they retire at 75. Burke was only 66 then and the demotion was widely seen as a sign of the pope's irritation with the cardinal's constant sniping over Francis' reforms.

In particular, Burke has contested moves by the pope that would allow Catholics who have divorced and re-married outside the Church without an annulment to return to the sacrament of communion. Burke declined to comment on his demotion.

Since the demotion, Burke has become even more of a rallying point for conservatives, flying around the world to give lectures to conservative groups and often giving interviews criticising the pope's decisions.

In November, he led a rare public challenge to the pope with three other cardinals who accused the pontiff of sowing confusion on important moral issues such as that of communion for the divorced.

Burke later said in an interview that if the pope did not respond to their letter, the cardinals might need to "correct" the pope themselves for the good of the Church.

The Vatican did not comment on the uprising at the time but many of the pope's supporters publicly criticised the four cardinals.

The pope will now appoint a "pontifical delegate" to help run the order, at least until elections can be held for a new Grand Master.

In a personal letter to the Sovereign Council on Jan. 27 and seen by Reuters, Francis made clear that the Vatican did not want to interfere with the Order's sovereignty but said his delegate would seek to "renew the spirituality of the Order, specifically of those members who take vows."
Who are the Knights of Malta?

VATICAN CITY, Jan 30 (Reuters) - The Knights of Malta, an ancient Catholic order which operates as global charity, has its headquarters on one of Rome's most exclusive streets, the cobble-stoned Via Condotti where red-and-white flags bearing the Maltese Cross fly above the entrance.

The leadership of the order -- formally, the Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem of Rhodes and of Malta -- has been locked in a battle with the Vatican for the past two months.

Here are some facts about the order:

- The Knights of Malta started in 1048 as the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, a monastic community which ran a hospital for pilgrims in the Holy Land. In 1113, it became a lay religious order, with all knights bound by the three monastic vows of poverty, chastity and obedience. It later became a military order to defend its centres and access roads.

- In 1291, after the loss of the Holy Land, it moved to the island of Cyprus. In 1310, it moved to Rhodes and became a major naval force in the Mediterranean. The Knights were defeated by the forces of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent in 1523 and moved to Malta, where they stayed until 1798, when they were forced to leave by Napoleon.

- The order settled definitively in Rome in 1834 and since then it has concentrated on its original mission, mostly through its humanitarian aid arm, Maltaser International.

- Today the institution is a worldwide charity that counts 13,000 members, 80,000 volunteers and some 25,000 paid employees, most of them medical staff.

- The top leadership consists of the Grand Master, the Grand Commander, the Grand Chancellor, the Grand Hospitaller and the Receiver of the Common Treasure (finance minister). They sit above a Sovereign Council, made up of six members.

- The all-male top leaders are not clerics, but they take vows of poverty, chastity and obedience to the pope.

- The institution has the status of a sovereign entity, maintaining diplomatic ties with more than 100 states and the European Union. It also has permanent observer status at the United Nations.
Mexico rebukes Israel over Netanyahu wall tweet

MEXICO CITY, Jan 28 (Reuters) - Mexico's government on Saturday rebuked Israel for a tweet by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that appeared to applaud U.S. President Donald Trump's plan to build a border wall with Mexico to keep out illegal immigrants.

Earlier on Saturday, Netanyahu tweeted: "President Trump is right. I built a wall along Israel's southern border. It stopped all illegal immigration. Great success. Great idea."

The comment prompted angry responses from several prominent Mexicans of Jewish origin on Twitter, and an unusually blunt statement from the Mexican foreign ministry.

"The Foreign Ministry expressed to the government of Israel, via its ambassador in Mexico, its profound astonishment, rejection and disappointment over Prime Minister Netanyahu's message on Twitter about the construction of a border wall.

"Mexico is a friend of Israel and should be treated as such by its Prime Minister," the ministry said, noting Foreign Minister Luis Videgaray had only on Friday expressed his deep affection for Israel in an event marking Holocaust memorial day.

Haaretz newspaper reported that the Prime Minister's office later issued a statement saying Netanyahu was not weighing in on U.S.-Mexico relations.

Mexico's government and Trump have been locked in a bitter dispute over his election campaign promise to build a wall on the U.S. southern border that he says Mexico will foot the bill for. Mexico has repeatedly said it will not pay for the wall.

Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto on Thursday canceled a visit to meet Trump next week after the American advised him to forgo the trip if he was not willing to pay for the wall.
Mobile App on the Colombo National Museum with information of its galleries and exhibits would be launched on February 6 with the reopening of the Museum which underwent rigorous renovations for almost two years, National Museums Department Director Sanuja Kasthuriarachchi said yesterday.

She said the 140-year-old Italian style Colombo National Museum will be declared open to the public at a special ceremony on February 6.

Commenting on the renovations, Ms. Kasthuriarachchi said the task was hard and tenuous given the historic value of the building.

This museum building is not just another building. It has been declared a historical monument. Therefore, the reconstruction work was detailed, scrupulous and time-consuming, she told Daily Mirror.

Ms. Kasthuriarachchi said Army personnel carried out the reconstruction work while the Central Engineering Consultancy Bureau (CECB) acted as the consultants and worked closely with the Department of National Museums and the Department of Archaeology throughout the renovation work.

She said engineering consultations were essential because of the museum building was not only historic but also consisted of many intricate structural designs such as arches and other work of art.

We had to be careful not to make even a single change during the renovation carried out at an estimated cost of Rs.200 million. The army personnel did a splendid job in completing the work allotted to them with dedication and commitment, she said. (Lahiru Pothmulla)
A plot to assassinate Tamil National Alliance (TNA) parliamentarian M.A. Sumanthiran by exploding a claymore mine while he was travelling along the Soranpatru-Thaalayadi Road in the Jaffna peninsula was uncovered by the Police Terrorism Investigation Department (TID).

The four former LTTE cadres arrested in this connection and produced before the Kilinochchi District Judge A.A. Anandarajan on January 20 were remanded at the Anuradhapura prisons.

It is suspected that the assassination plot was backed by the overseas LTTE faction headed by the Norway-based Perinbanayagam Sivaparan alias Nediyavan.

It is reported that two plots hatched to kill Sumanthiran on the Soranpatru-Thaalayady road on December 12, 2016 and January 13, 2017 did not succeed due to "accidental" reasons.

An enhanced security arrangement has been provided to Mr. Sumanthiran following a meeting by the National Security Council. Both President Sirisena and Prime Minister Wickremesinghe have expressed grave concern at the perceived threat to the TNA MP's life. (D.B.S. Jeyaraj)
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe today visited the Anuradhapura District and met several prominent Buddhist monks in the area including the chief incumbent of Attamastana Venerable Pallegama Sirinivasa thera and chief incumbent of thanthirimalle Venerable Thantirimalle Chandraratana thera. The Prime Minister briefed the Venerable monks on the Malwathu Oya project and other development projects in the area. Pix by Pradeep Pathirana.
For an long time now, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been silent on economic questions  especially on demonetisation. He could have stated that he and his Cabinet underestimated the extreme difficulties of the note ban, and that he would do his best to improve the travails ordinary citizens have faced.

Perhaps, most leaders in Modi's position would have done so, but he remains tight-lipped on the issue.

This is likely to hurt him politically as the upcoming polls are likely to reveal.

The NDA has few excuses to offer for the disastrous policy. Western economists like Kenneth Rogoff have repeatedly pointed out that demonetisation is not recommended for developing countries, where cash flows are relatively low.

It has also been pointed out that the note ban should be put in place only for high-denomination currency. However, the 1,000 note is only about $15 in US dollars, which economists like Rogoff say is too low to be demonetised.

Others like Lawrence Summers, former president of Harvard University; Bengt Holstrom, 2016 Nobel Laureate for Economics; Kaushik Basu, Chief Economist, the World Bank and Amartya Sen, Nobel Laureate in Economics had similar positions.

Three-and-a-half months have passed since the drive came into force. Yet, important facts are not yet in the public domain. RBI governor Urjit Patel has been unable to provide the details of amount deposited in cash in the central bank. A Bloomberg report estimates that 97 per cent of the demonetised currency was in the RBI and associated banks.

Gurgaon resident Nand Lal, who was standing in line to withdraw his pension, broke into tears after failing to do so despite queuing up for three days. Photo from Dec 13, 2016. Courtesy: Hindustan Times

If the RBI governor is unable to provide crucial details to the standing committee on finance, or to the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), it is clear that the policymakers did not know what they were doing.

In late 2016, the government imported 8,000 metric tonnes of currency paper. This was apparently not enough and hence followed by the import of 27,500 metric tonnes of currency paper.

Why didn't the government do so earlier? What this means is the printing of the new currency notes will be delayed with cash flows still low.

When minister of state for finance Arjun S Meghwal announced that new "lower denomination" currency notes would be printed, it appeared that the was reacting after it was clear that enough currency paper was in store.

This would include 100, 50, 20 and 10 notes. But what about old notes of the same denomination? They too would be demonetised and deposited in banks. Why go to such trouble and demonetise all the old currency?

While this enormously tedious process is underway, our people are hurting. The rural sector is badly hit  availability of cash is limited as ATMs and banks have less cash than provisions in urban areas.

The poor farmers, facing cash constraints, are at the mercy of highly exploitative moneylenders and this leaves them in debt.

The informal sector, India's largest employer that mostly deals in cash transactions, has lost employees and jobs; sales have plummeted and unemployment steadily rising.

At the same time, there is no ameliorative policy instituted by the government. It seems the ruling coalition is pretending things will get better on their own. That never happens.

Finally, the media has come up with advertisements on how to remonetise. Simply put, the formula is spend as much as possible in the urban areas, so there is greater demand in rural areas.

But where is the extra cash? How does urban spending lead to cash transfers to the rural areas?

Urban spending almost invariably leads to cash accumulation.

It is also argued that expenditure must be cut down in urban areas. That, however, doesn't mean unspent urban cash will automatically penetrate the rural economy.

Remonetisation cannot be done without spending more cash from urban or rural sectors. It is not the area where the cash comes from during the note ban that is important.

The acute shortage has to be replenished with a fresh infusion of cash to increase the liquidity in the economy.

Today, even the 1,000 notes are not available. The new "lower denomination" notes promised by Meghwal have yet to be printed.

It will take at least six months for the new currency notes to be made available  and distribution of currency will longer. In the meanwhile, the economically-weaker sections and the middle class  the bulk of India's population  will suffer.

This will cause another problem: the newly designed currency will have to replace old notes of the same denomination, an onerous procedure. So there is no easy way out of the rigours of demonetisation but to remonetise.

As Kenneth Rogoff has pointed out, demonetisation requires five to seven years to systematically phase out high-denomination notes. In India, no notice was given to the people before undertaking the mammoth task.

The printing of the 2,000 notes started only two months before demonetisation, while the printing of 500 notes started only about two weeks before demonetisation.
The just-concluded India visit of Abu Dhabi crown prince Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan is undoubtedly a powerful way forward for India's "Look West" policy and marks the beginning of a new chapter in India's ties with the Arab world. Yet, all isn't hunky dory. Here are the many hits and misses.

Sheikh Mohammed came on a second state visit to India in less than a year and on both times Prime Minister Narendra Modi breached protocol and received the dignitary at the airport, something that an Indian prime minister has done only with respect to the US presidents or the king of Saudi Arabia.

Moreover, the crown prince was made the chief guest at India's Republic Day parade even though he is neither a head of state nor the head of a government.

Add to this the fact that Abu Dhabi's crown prince was considered over two important leaders for attending Republic Day parade as chief guest - Justin Trudeau, prime minister of Canada, a G8 nation, and Sheikh Hasina, prime minister of Bangladesh, an important neighbour India shares the longest land border of 4096km with.

Not a dime of UAE's promised $75 billion in Indian infrastructure has come to India in the past 18 months. Photo: Twitter

This puts in perspective the importance of Sheikh Mohammed as well as of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for India - which is our third largest trade partner in the world after the United States and China with an annual bilateral trade of more than $50 billion.

PM Modi's reasons for wooing Sheikh Mohammed are not far to seek as the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority boasts of more than $750 billion sovereign funds of which the crown prince pledged to park $75 billion in India's infrastructure sector about 18 months ago.

Now come the challenges. Not a dime of the promised $75 billion has come to India in the past 18 months.

After the delegation-level talks between PM Modi and the crown prince in New Delhi's Hyderabad House on January 25, the Indian government is in no position to divulge when exactly the $75 billion investment would start flowing into the country.

But India has only itself, its business-unfriendly atmosphere and lack of due preparations to blame for not getting even the first tranche of the $75 billion pie because the chief vehicle which is to drive this ambitious investment from Abu Dhabi - National Infrastructure Investment Fund (NIIF) - is still busy in fastening its nuts and bolts.

At this rate it may well take at least one more year, if not more, before the Abu Dhabi investment materialises.

PM Modi is believed to be highly upset over the tardy progress achieved in this context with the UAE. He is restive but realises that cracking the UAE nut is not as easy as he had thought when he paid a historic visit to the UAE in August 2015 when the offer was first made to India.

Since then, the UAE has made $4 billion worth investment in India through the FDI route but faced major issues within the country. It feels the Indian investment climate is not as good as in China and many other foreign destinations.

The hard fact is that though India and the UAE successfully portrayed a fast-galloping bilateral strategic partnership, the two sides continue to have major sticking points.

On the strategic side, though the Abu Dhabi crown prince put his weight behind a 62-point India-UAE joint statement, which emphasises counterterrorism issues, supposedly sending a tough message to Pakistan. But fact remains that the UAE and Pakistan have strong ties.

Despite the high-octane rhetoric, it won't be easy for India to wean the UAE away from Pakistan's influence.

Obviously, the UAE is being very clever. It had militarily supported Pakistan in the 1971 war and is unlikely to disengage Islamabad and indulge in a please-all relationship with India.

The UAE strategy has been to find out what exactly it can extract from India and only then will it decide on making good its pledge of the $75-billion investment.

From the UAE's perspective, India can help in a big way if New Delhi could do at a faction of the cost what the US has been doing for years for billions of dollar per annum: safeguarding the UAE's oil and other strategic establishments.

It knows that the Donald Trump administration could soon put an end to the US practice of subsidising the costs of its secure umbrella over the UAE's oil installations and other strategic assets.

India can play the same role at a fraction of the cost. This, however, may not come into the public domain for quite some time.

The question that arises is, if Indian military can fill in the shoes of American forces, can't Pakistan do so at an even lesser cost?

After all, its former army chief General Raheel Sharif has recently been appointed by Saudi Arabia to head its international coalition to take on the threat of militant forces represented by the Islamic State.

However, the UAE is apprehensive of Pakistan's nexus with non-state actors, which the former learnt the hard way recently with the twin terror attacks in Afghanistan's Kabul and Kandahar in which five of its diplomats and many other UAE nationals were killed.

The UAE has suddenly become aware of Pakistan's potential of exporting fulminant Islam into its own country. That's why it chose to make the remarks it did for the first time in the India-UAE joint statement, swearing allegiance to zero tolerance to terrorism - and sustained opposition to "terrorism in all its forms and manifestations".
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Ltd., Pfizer Spain Holdings Cooperatief U.A., Pfizer Specialties Limited, Pfizer Strategic Investment Holdings LLC, Pfizer Sweden Partnership KB, Pfizer TRAE Holdings Kft., Pfizer Trading Polska sp.z.o.o., Pfizer Transactions Ireland Unlimited Company, Pfizer Transactions LLC, Pfizer Transactions Luxembourg SARL, Pfizer Transport LLC, Pfizer Ukraine LLC, Pfizer Vaccines LLC, Pfizer Venezuela S.A., Pfizer Venture Investments LLC, Pfizer Ventures LLC, Pfizer Worldwide Services Unlimited Company, Pfizer Zona Franca S.A., Pfizer spol. s r.o., Pharmacia, Pharmacia & Upjohn Company Inc., Pharmacia & Upjohn Company LLC, Pharmacia & Upjohn LLC, Pharmacia & Upjohn S.A. de C.V., Pharmacia Brasil Ltda., Pharmacia Hepar LLC, Pharmacia Holding AB, Pharmacia Inter-American LLC, Pharmacia International B.V., Pharmacia LLC, Pharmacia Limited, Pharmacia Nostrum S.A., Pharmacia South Africa (Pty) Ltd, PowderJect Research Limited, PowderMed, Purepac Pharmaceutical Holdings LLC, Redvax, Renrall LLC, Rinat Neuroscience, Rinat Neuroscience Corp., Roerig Produtos Farmaceuticos Lda., Roerig S.A., Sao Cristovao Participacoes Ltda., Searle Laboratorios Lda., Serenex, Servicios P&U S. de R.L. de C.V., Shiley LLC, Sinergis Farma-Produtos Farmaceuticos Lda., Site Realty Inc., Solinor LLC, Sugen LLC, Tabor LLC, The Pfizer Incubator LLC, Therachon, Thiakis Limited, Treerly Health Co. Ltd, US Oral Pharmaceuticals Pty Ltd, Upjohn Laboratorios Lda., Vesteralens Naturprodukter A/S, Vesteralens Naturprodukter AB, Vesteralens Naturprodukter AS, Vesteralens Naturprodukter OY, Vicuron Holdings LLC, Vinci Farma S.A., W-L LLC, Warner Lambert, Warner Lambert Ilac Sanayi ve Ticaret Limited Sirketi, Warner Lambert del Uruguay S.A., Warner-Lambert (Thailand) Limited, Warner-Lambert Company AG, Warner-Lambert Company LLC, Warner-Lambert Guatemala Sociedad Anonima, Warner-Lambert S.A., Whitehall International Inc., Whitehall Laboratories Inc., Wyeth (Thailand) Ltd., Wyeth AB, Wyeth Australia Pty. Limited, Wyeth Ayerst Inc., Wyeth Ayerst S.a r.l., Wyeth Biopharma, Wyeth Canada ULC, Wyeth Consumer Healthcare LLC, Wyeth Europa Limited, Wyeth Farma S.A., Wyeth Holdings LLC, Wyeth Industria Farmaceutica Ltda., Wyeth KFT., Wyeth LLC, Wyeth Lederle S.r.l., Wyeth Lederle Vaccines S.A., Wyeth Pakistan Limited, Wyeth Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Wyeth Pharmaceuticals Company, Wyeth Pharmaceuticals FZ-LLC, Wyeth Pharmaceuticals LLC, Wyeth Pharmaceuticals Limited, Wyeth Puerto Rico Inc., Wyeth S.A.S, Wyeth Subsidiary Illinois Corporation, Wyeth Whitehall Export GmbH, Wyeth Whitehall SARL, Wyeth-Ayerst (Asia) Limited, Wyeth-Ayerst International LLC, and Wyeth-Ayerst Promotions Limited.

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Alcoa Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, produces and sells bauxite, alumina, and aluminum products in the United States, Spain, Australia, Iceland, Norway, Brazil, Canada, and internationally. The company operates through three segments: Bauxite, Alumina, and Aluminum. It engages in bauxite mining operations; and processes bauxite into alumina and sells it to customers who process it into industrial chemical products, as well as aluminum smelting and casting businesses. The company offers primary aluminum in the form of alloy ingot or value-add ingot to customers that produce products for the transportation, building and construction, packaging, wire, and other industrial markets. In addition, it owns hydro power plants that generates and sells electricity in the wholesale market to traders, large industrial consumers, distribution companies, and other generation companies. The company was formerly known as Alcoa Upstream Corporation and changed its name to Alcoa Corporation in October 2016. The company was founded in 1888 and is headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Barnes & Noble Education, Inc. operates bookstores for college and university campuses, and K-12 institutions in the United States. It operates through three segments: Retail, Wholesale, and Digital Student Solutions. The company sells and rents new and used print textbooks, digital textbooks, and publisher hosted digital courseware through physical and virtual bookstores, as well as directly to students through Textbooks.com. It also offers First Day and First Day Complete access programs; BNC OER+, a turnkey solution for colleges and universities, that offers digital content, such as videos, activities, and auto-graded practice assessments; and general merchandise, including collegiate and athletic apparel, school spirit products, lifestyle products, technology products, supplies, graduation products, and convenience items. In addition, the company sources, sells, and distributes new and used textbooks; and sells hardware and a software suite of applications that provides inventory management and point-of-sale solutions to approximately 350 college bookstores. Further, it offers direct-to-student subscription-based writing services; and bartleby, a direct-to-student subscription-based offering that includes textbook solutions, expert questions and answers, and writing and tutoring services. The company operates 805 physical college and university bookstores; 622 virtual bookstores; 8 True Spirit e-commerce websites; pop-up retail locations; 73 customized cafes and 11 stand-alone convenience stores; and a media channel for brands targeting the college demographic. Barnes & Noble Education, Inc. was founded in 1965 and is headquartered in Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
ELKO  A man who fled from a police officer was captured and arrested on multiple charges.

Police Lt. Ty Trouten said an officer was doing a security check in the Gold Country Casino Thursday at around 8 p.m. when he noticed a man he knew was wanted. The officer tried to engage the man but he fled and dashed toward the RV parking area behind the casino.

Police discovered David Thompson, 32, of Salt Lake City trying to dispose of an unknown amount of methamphetamine, according to Trouten. Officers took custody of Thompson and searched him. The police also discovered 15 grams of suspected heroin.

Upon further search they discovered that Thompson was carrying an identification card with Thompsons photograph but another individuals name. Officers called a Utah family of the man who was named on the identification and he told them he was unaware of missing identification. Thompson also had stolen credit cards on his person.

Thompson was arrested for two counts of violation of probation or condition of suspended sentence, use or possession of drug paraphernalia, resisting a public officer, attempting to destroy or conceal evidence, possession of a controlled substance, possession to sell a controlled substance, trafficking a controlled substance, two counts of failure to appear after bail on a felony, and on a warrant for conspiracy to violate the controlled substance act, possession to sell a controlled substance, and four counts of selling a controlled substance.

His bail was listed at $219,280.
KBR, Inc. provides scientific, technology, and engineering solutions to governments and commercial customers worldwide. The company operates through Government Solutions and Sustainable Technology Solutions segments. The Government Solutions segment offers life-cycle support solutions to defense, intelligence, space, aviation, and other programs and missions for military and other government agencies in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Its services cover research and development, advanced prototyping, acquisition support, systems engineering, cyber analytics, space domain awareness, test and evaluation, systems integration and program management, global supply chain management, and operations readiness and support, as well as command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance services. This segment also provides various professional advisory services to deliver high-end systems engineering, systems assurance, and technology to customers across the defense, energy, and critical infrastructure sectors. The Sustainable Technology Solutions segment holds a portfolio of approximately 70 proprietary process technologies for ammonia/syngas/fertilizers, chemical/petrochemicals, clean refining, and circular process/circular economy solutions. This segment also includes advisory and consulting practices that focuses on energy transition and net-zero carbon emission consulting; and provides engineering, design, and professional services, as well as industrial solutions through KBR INSITE, a proprietary, digital, and cloud-based operations and maintenance platform that identifies opportunities for clients to achieve sustainable improvements in production, reliability, environment impact, energy efficiency, and profitability. KBR, Inc. was founded in 1998 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas.
Red Hat, Inc. provides open source software solutions to develop and offer operating system, virtualization, management, middleware, cloud, mobile, and storage technologies to various enterprises worldwide. It offers infrastructure-related solutions, such as Red Hat Enterprise Linux, an operating system platform that runs on hardware for use in hybrid cloud environments; Red Hat Satellite, a system management offering that helps to deploy, scale, and manage in hybrid cloud environments; and Red Hat Enterprise Virtualization, a software solution that allows customers to utilize and manage a common hardware infrastructure to run multiple operating systems and applications. The company offers application development-related and other technology solutions, such as Red Hat JBoss Middleware, a solution for developing, deploying, and managing applications; integrating applications, data, and devices; and automating business processes in hybrid cloud environments; The company's application development-related and other technology solutions also includes Red Hat cloud offerings, a software solution that enables customers to build and manage various cloud computing environments; Red Hat Mobile, a software development platform that enables customers to develop, integrate, deploy, and manage mobile applications for enterprises; and Red Hat Storage, a software solution that enables customers to manage large, unstructured, or semi-structured data in hybrid cloud environments. It also provides consulting, support, and training services; and realtime operating system, distributed computing, directory services, and user authentication. Red Hat, Inc. has collaboration with Juniper Networks Expand to provide a unified solution for enterprises designed to manage and run applications and services. The company was formerly known as Red Hat Software, Inc. and changed its name to Red Hat, Inc. in June 1999. Red Hat, Inc. was founded in 1993 and is headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina.
ServiceNow, Inc. provides enterprise cloud computing solutions that defines, structures, consolidates, manages, and automates services for enterprises worldwide. It operates the Now platform for workflow automation, artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotic process automation, performance analytics, electronic service catalogs and portals, configuration management systems, data benchmarking, encryption, and collaboration and development tools. The company also provides information technology (IT) service management applications; IT service management product suite for enterprise's employees, customers, and partners; IT business management product suite; IT operations management product that connects a customer's physical and cloud-based IT infrastructure; IT Asset Management to automate IT asset lifecycles; and security operations that connects with internal and third party. In addition, it offers governance, risk, and compliance product to manage risk and resilience; human resources, legal, and workplace service delivery products; safe workplace applications; customer service management product; and field service management applications. Further, it provides App Engine product; IntegrationHub enables application to extend workflows; and professional, industry solutions, and customer support services. It serves government, financial services, healthcare, telecommunications, manufacturing, IT services, technology, oil and gas, education, and consumer products through direct sales team and resale partners. It has a strategic partnership with Celonis to help customers identify and prioritize processes that are suitable for automation. The company was formerly known as Service-now.com and changed its name to ServiceNow, Inc. in May 2012. The company was founded in 2004 and is headquartered in Santa Clara, California.
ELKO  Greater Nevada Mortgage has added Ricky Harig to its team of Elko Mortgage Consultants. Harig is located in GNMs office at 905 Railroad St., Suite 203.

Harig brings more than 12 years of management experience and will focus on helping Elko residents access the many different home loan products and programs GNM offers. He is also an active community volunteer for local organizations such as Soroptimist International.

Greater Nevada Mortgage provides lending products to assist a variety of borrowers throughout Nevada, from investors to first-time homebuyers. GNM has several locations throughout Northern Nevada and provides local service for its customers. For information about GNM call 888-6999 or visit www.greaternevadamortgage.com.
Intercontinental Exchange, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, operates regulated exchanges, clearing houses, and listings venues for commodity, financial, fixed income, and equity markets in the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Singapore, Israel, and Canada. It operates through three segments: Exchanges, Fixed Income and Data Services, and Mortgage Technology. The company operates marketplaces for listing, trading, and clearing an array of derivatives contracts and financial securities, such as commodities, interest rates, foreign exchange, and equities, as well as corporate and exchange-traded funds; trading venues, including 13 regulated exchanges and 6 clearing houses; and offers futures and options products for energy, agricultural and metals, financial, cash equities and equity, over-the-counter, and other markets, as well as listings and data and connectivity services. It also provides fixed income data and analytic, fixed income execution, CDS clearing, and other multi-asset class data and network services. In addition, the company offers proprietary and comprehensive mortgage origination platform, which serves residential mortgage loans; closing solutions that provides customers connectivity to the mortgage supply chain and facilitates the secure exchange of information; data and analytics services; and Data as a Service for lenders to access data and origination information. Intercontinental Exchange, Inc. was founded in 2000 and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia.
Michael N. Kennedy of Spring Creek, NV passed away January 6, 2017 in Salt Lake City, Utah at the age of 76 after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Mike was born November 5, 1940 in Corpus Christi, Texas to parents Claude and Lorene Kennedy.

He graduated from Gunnison County High School in 1959 and joined the Marine Corps for four years. He said I didnt like sharing my bedroom with 79 other men and being told when to go to the bathroom. Mike then attended the Western State College of Colorado.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents and the love of his life, Reba Kennedy who he met and married in 1989. Of Reba, Mike said When she said something you could use it as collateral at the bank. When we had a problem, I could count on her to stay with her word, not whine and want to get a new hair-do, she was solid as gold, and twice as special.

Mike spent most of his life as a millwright and spent 10 years with Union Carbide at Uravan and Timpahute and later, 15 years with Newmont before retiring in 2003.

I got rid of my watch, grew a beard and stopped taking any crap.

He had an education for an office job, but couldnt stand the confinement of it.

Mike was a great outdoorsman. He was happiest backpacking through the wilderness, fishing, hunting, camping and prospecting. Mike enjoyed traveling with Reba, piloting his Mooney or his motorhome from Oklahoma City to Los Angeles, Washington to Kingman, Az. He was a man of simple tastes. An avid Denver Broncos fan, Mike was able to attend the Broncos training camp in the last summer of his life.

Mike is survived by his sister Lynne Howard of Lakewood, Colorado; nieces Roberta (Jim) Chase and Trina (Jon) Burgermeister, their children and one great-grand-niece. He is also survived by his step-children Katherine Thome of Fernley, Patricia (Mike) Andersen of Winnemucca and Carl (Kathy) Thome of Spring Creek; grandchildren Sara Reynolds and Ashley (Kevin) Conner of Spring Creek, Kate Nichols and Elizabeth Sample of Reno and Rebecca (Travis) Hall of Fernley as well as 12 great-grandchildren (including Red on the Head, Charlie Brown, Funa, Peanut and Big Guy).

There are more days behind us than before us, make each day good, smell a rose, and come to a smooth ending.

A celebration of his life will be held at a later date to be announced.
New U.K. Treasury chief Jeremy Hunt has reversed most of an economic package announced by the government just weeks ago, including a planned cut in income taxes. Hunt said Monday he was scrapping almost all the tax cuts announced last month by the Conservative government of Prime Minister Liz Truss, and also signaled that public spending cuts are on the way. It was a bid to soothe turbulent financial markets spooked by fears of excessive government borrowing. The move raises questions about how long the beleaguered prime minister can stay in office, though Truss insisted she has no plans to quit. She vowed to lead the Conservatives into the next general election, but many in the party want her gone.
ELKO -- Texas swing music comes to Elko and the 33rd National Cowboy Poetry Gathering.

Doug Moreland and the Flying Armadillos make their first appearance at the Poetry Gathering, performing their Texas rhythms in a variety of songs ranging from campfire tunes to dancehall music, culminating in the Saturday Night Dance at the Elko Convention Center in the Turquoise Room.

Moreland, a native of West Texas, grew up around cowboy music and poetry, thanks to his father  a wainwright, blacksmith, fiddle-playing, ranch hand  and the annual Texas Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Alpine.

Beginning his career in 1992 as a funny man and fiddle sideman, Moreland decided to start his own band and perform his own songs. His first album, Everybody Knows My Name, came out in 2004 and he released four more after that.

Two years ago, Moreland and the Armadillos released their latest CD Bring Back the Swing.

The band performs mostly around Texas and attends festivals around the county, most recently playing at MusicFest in Steamboat Springs, Colorado,

While music and poetry festivals are normal for Moreland, hes most looking forward to the jam sessions held around Elko during the Poetry Gathering.

Thats awesome as many as they get together for that, said Moreland about the informal performances among musicians. I want to be a part of it.

Morelands musical influences also come out on stage in the form of covers of Bob Wills, Willie Nelson, and Roger Miller.

We like to play and have fun, Moreland said of him and the Flying Armadillos. The band includes Randy Roberts on upright bass, Wes Holtsford on fiddle and mandolin, and JD Pendley on guitar.

In addition to performing, Moreland also is a chainsaw carver, selling his wood carvings through his gallery/studio/office, Cattelacs, in Mancaca, Texas, south of Austin.

Ill probably have some with me to look at or sell, he said when he comes to Elko.

The Cattelacs gallery also doubles as a studio for a weekly radio show, Behind the Lines, broadcast on KDRP 100.1 FM Tuesday evenings. A relaxed format that features an artist or group, Moreland calls the show a mic in an open room.

As Moreland and the Armadillos prepare for their debut at the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering, one fan, Michael Martin Murphey, was especially happy to hear the band was coming to Elko, telling Moreland at MusicFest:

About time they got a Texas band there.

Doug Moreland and the Flying Armadillos are scheduled to play throughout the Gathering, beginning Feb. 1 with Luke Bell in Kicking Up the Dust, 7 p.m. at the Elko Convention Center. They will also appear Feb. 3, 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. at Mixing It Up at the Elko Conference Center. Finally, they appear at the Saturday Night Dance held at the Elko Convention Centers Turquoise Room.

For more information on Doug Moreland and the Flying Armadillos, visit www.dougmoreland.com.
Ryan McFadden was in his early 30s when he found his lifes calling.

By then, McFadden, who had previously worked in graphic design, was a husband and father. The recession made it hard to find work, but he got an idea while he was participating in a medical trial at the University of Virginia for people with diabetes.

After talking with a nurse at the trial, McFadden decided that was what he wanted to do.

Ive kind of had health care in my life from an early age, McFadden said. I ended up going full circle.

Today, McFadden is a pediatric nurse at the UVa Childrens Hospital, thanks in part to the financial assistance he received under the Conway Scholarship, which allowed him to attend the universitys School of Nursing. The scholarship, which began 10 years ago, was recently renewed for another five years with a $5 million gift from founders Joanne and Bill Conway.

The scholarship is aimed at people like McFadden  people with bachelors degrees who want to jump into the nursing field with a two-year masters degree. The additional funding will help pay education costs for another 110 students in the schools Clinical Nursing Leader program.

Many of the scholars  former marine biologists, political lobbyists, attorneys and craft beer brewers  are already in some educational debt and could not afford to get their degree without financial aid.

This program is unique because we take people with degrees  we skip the bachelors degree and immerse them in two years of intensive study, said Dorrie Fontaine, dean of the UVa School of Nursing.

UVas CNL program is ranked second in the country by U.S. News & World Report, and its one of the ways in which the university is trying to help meet the need for nurses. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that there will be a need for an additional 1 million nurses by 2022 due to growth and replacement needs.

The aging population is affecting the nursing workforce in more ways than one. Like all professions, its facing a wave of retirements that leave existing positions open. Nurses also will have to help care for the growing elderly population in the U.S., so there will be growth in the field, as well.

The more scholarship aid we can provide, the better, Fontaine said.

McFadden said he thinks anyone with a willingness to work can get into the business. It could be good for nursing, he said, to get people from different walks of life  each of whom could help in their own way.

McFadden used his graphic design skills to help design a pamphlet mapping out the interior of the hospital and provided some feedback on signs that could make navigation clearer and easier.

But he said his new career, on the acute care floor of the pediatric unit, is more satisfying than anything he had done before.

Its demanding from both an emotional and physical standpoint, McFadden said. Ultimately, I feel good about what I do at the end of the day.

Nurse practitioners, who have more training and more freedom than entry-level registered nurses, will play an increasingly important role in caring for this population, according to Aaron Yao, a public health researcher at UVa.

A recent study led by Yao found that up to 4 million homebound, elderly Americans are not getting adequate care. Many of these patients live far away from doctors offices and would benefit from home visits, but doctors today rarely have the time or incentive to do these visits.

This role could be filled by nurse practitioners, Yao said, who can perform most of the basics of primary care.

[Elderly patients] really need care at home, and the care they need is not really complicated, Yao said. A lot of times, its symptom management.

Training nurse practitioners is faster and cheaper than training doctors, so nursing training  along with a loosening of regulations that would allow nurse practitioners to practice independently  could be crucial to meeting the need, Yao said.

If that happens, he said, we will have a better chance to solve rural disparities. Oftentimes, its more cost efficient for nurse practitioners to start up house-call practices in rural areas.
RICHMOND  Saying his effort had been dragged unfairly into Virginias redistricting debate, a Republican lawmaker on Friday abandoned a bill that would allocate Virginias Electoral College votes by congressional district rather than the existing winner-take-all system for presidential contests.

Del. Mark L. Cole, R-Spotsylvania, chairman of the House of Delegates committee on elections, urged the panel to kill the bill Friday, saying it had been wrongly associated with debates over redistricting and gerrymandering.

The opponents of it think its associated with redistricting when its really not, Cole said. It wasnt my intent. My intent was to try and distribute them a little bit more based on the actual voting.

Under the current system, Virginias 13 electoral votes have gone to Democrats in the past three elections after the Democratic ticket won the statewide vote.

Because Republicans hold seven of Virginias 11 U.S. House seats, a district-based system would give the GOP a competitive edge amid the partys losing streak in statewide elections that dates to 2009.

Only Maine and Nebraska use a presidential electoral system based on congressional districts rather than winner-take-all.

Proponents of the change believe it will better reflect the will of voters in Virginias various regions, but critics say it will further entrench partisan gerrymandering, the practice of drawing voter districts to retain or gain power.

Several Democratic-backed legal efforts have been launched in recent years to challenge Virginias political map.

Last year, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a redrawn congressional map that allowed Democrats to pick up the new, Richmond-centered 4th District. Another redistricting case challenging lines for statehouse districts is pending.

Cole pointed to the pending litigation and the General Assemblys distaste for changing policy during lawsuits as one reason for dropping the effort. He also said that even if the bill passed, Democratic Gov. Terry McAuliffe would veto it.

Democrats opposed the bill, and Cole said that even if the General Assembly passed it, McAuliffe would veto it.

I think probably the time is not right for it, though I still think its a good policy and something we may pursue in the future, Cole said.

A Senate version of the bill died in committee this week.

For the year, its done, Cole said.

The measure is House Bill 1425.
WASHINGTON  Heres how area members of Congress voted on major issues in the week ending Jan. 27:

House

Abortions, Affordable Care Act. Voting 238 for and 183 against, the House on Jan. 24 passed a GOP-sponsored bill (HR 7) that would prevent taxpayer-subsidized insurance policies in Affordable Care Act marketplaces from covering abortions, which are legal in the U.S. under conditions set by the Supreme Court in Roe v. Wade. Because the ACA already requires policyholders to personally pay the share of their premium applicable to reproductive care, there was dispute over whether this bill would change anything.

In other provisions, the bill would prohibit the use of tax credits to subsidize premiums for ACA policies that cover abortions, prevent the District of Columbia from using locally raised funds to pay for abortions and add the so-called Hyde Amendment to permanent law. A standard part of appropriations bills since 1976, the Hyde measure prohibits the spending of federal funds for abortions except in cases of rape or incest or to save the life of the mother.

A yes vote was to send the bill to the Senate, where it is likely to face a Democratic filibuster.

Voting yes: Tom Garrett, R-5th; Dave Brat, R-7th.

Gender bias, Affordable Care Act. Voting 187 for and 235 against, the House on Jan. 24 defeated a Democratic motion that sought to ensure that HR 7 (above) would not result in women paying higher premiums than men for the same policies in Affordable Care Act marketplaces. Under an ACA provision that took effect in 2014, insurance companies are prohibited from discriminating on the basis of policyholders gender or health status. The anti-abortion provisions of the underlying bill would apply to any law that replaces the Affordable Care Act.

A yes vote was to adopt the Democratic motion.

Voting no: Garrett, Brat.

Disclosure of Donald Trumps tax returns. Voting 233 for and 187 against, the House on Jan. 24 blocked a parliamentary move by Democrats that sought to force debate on a bill now in committee that would require sitting presidents and presidential candidates to publicly release personal tax returns for the preceding three years. Democrats took this procedural step after the Republican majority denied them a chance to offer amendments to HR 7 (above). As a presidential candidate, Donald Trump said he would release his tax returns at the conclusion of what he said was an ongoing IRS audit. But Trump as president will not disclose his returns, a spokeswoman said days before this vote.

A yes vote was to quash a Democratic bid for disclosure of President Trumps tax returns.

Voting yes: Garrett, Brat.

Senate

Mike Pompeo, CIA director. The Senate on Jan. 23 voted, 66 for and 32 against, to confirm Mike Pompeo, 53, a Republican congressman from Kansas, as director of the Central Intelligence Agency. Pompeo becomes the sixth CIA director since the spy agency was restructured in 2005 as part of a revamp of U.S. intelligence operations in response to global terrorist threats.

According to his supporters, Pompeo firmly opposes any resumption of abandoned U.S. security practices such as collecting bulk data on Americans telecommunications or torturing terrorist suspects. But critics say Pompeos statements and writings call into question his true feelings about several post-9/11 policies that were stopped by acts of Congress or executive orders.

A yes vote was to confirm Pompeo as CIA director.

Voting yes: Mark R. Warner (D), Tim Kaine (D).

Nikki Haley, United Nations ambassador. The Senate on Jan. 24 voted, 96 for and four against, to confirm South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, a Republican, as the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Haley, 45, served in the state House of Representatives for six years before becoming South Carolinas first female governor in 2011.

Supporters praised Haleys leadership as governor and natural diplomatic skills, and while acknowledging her inexperience above the state level, they predicted she will grow into her international position. Opponents said that in her confirmation hearing, Haley only repeated GOP talking points, including a hard line on refugees and Cuba, while showing little understanding of world affairs or U.N. operations.

A yes vote was to confirm Haley as U.N. ambassador.

Voting yes: Warner, Kaine.
A public collection of money has been gathered to help Tom Hanks.

Yes, that Tom Hanks. The actor and filmmaker. Who probably has more money than most of us would know what do to with.

And the donations have been collected to help Mr. Hanks acquire something he probably doesnt even know he needs. A Fiat 126p.

You see, the actor made an impression on the people of Bielsko-Biala, Poland, last year when he posted photos of himself posing with Fiat 126p cars in Budapest, Hungary.

The cars were produced in Bielsko-Biala until 2000, and theyre still popular there.

So fan Monika Jaskolska launched a campaign to collect money in order to buy one of the vehicles for Mr. Hanks. She said she got an overwhelming response, allowing her to purchase a pre-1975 car, which is now being overhauled  free of charge  at a private garage. Its also due for a new paint job.

Ms. Jaskolska alluded to her idols reputation for being an all-around nice guy. Hes a very nice person, she said, who helps others and deserves a present himself.

Another nice guy/celebrity helped push the fundraising campaign over the top. Polish driver Rafal Sonik, a 2015 Dakar Rally winner on quad, made a large donation, with the overage going to local children's hospital.
The Chinese are at it again.

Remember the rooster-cum-Trump balloons produced by a Chinese company (The Daily Progress, Jan. 13)?

Even though Twitter is blocked by China, President Trumps penchant for tweets is well-known there.

So well-known that new websites are springing up allowing users to send messages copying Donald Trumps style and purporting to come from him, reports The Associated Press. Such as:

 @realdonaldtrump would like to wish you a Happy Chinese New Year.

 @realdonaldtrump thinks Shanghai Jiaotong University is better than its crosstown rival.

 @realdonaldtrump wants to buy a jianbing [typical Chinese street food] and wants Mexico to pay for it.

President Trump apparently is just a joke in China right now  first, because hes eminently caricaturable, but also because his policies dont really affect the Chinese at present.

"If he made it much more difficult to get U.S. visas, then you will see a lot of people insult him," suggested Vincent Zhang, an employee at an online dating site.
ELKO  One of the new artists the Western Folklife Center highlighted for this years National Cowboy Poetry Gathering is Luke Bell.

A lot of people were asking for him, said Darcy Minter, Folklife Center communications director.

The musician will perform at 7 p.m. Feb. 1 during the Kicking Up Dust show at the Elko Convention Center auditorium. Doug Moreland & the Flying Armadillos will also perform during this show.

He also will play during the Friday Night Dance from 9:30 p.m. until midnight in the Turquoise Room at the Elko Convention Center.

Rolling Stone included Bell in the 10 new country artists you need to know in 2016.

The magazine said Bell sounds like a rough-around-the-edges return to country traditionalism, full of honky-tonk shuffles, steel solos and the big, booming baritone of a former ranch hand whos actually lived the cowboy lifestyle.

Bell has cowboy roots since he worked on his grandparents ranch in Shell Wyoming.

"I built fences, worked horses, stacked hay, dug sewage lines and fixed water tanks," Bell told Rolling Stone magazine.

He resettled in Nashville.

I like work, cowboy culture, just plain good songs, honky-tonks, real life people, my dog, and my 95 Buick, Bell states on his website.
RICHMONDThe parents of a University of Virginia student who was abducted and slain in 2014 are asking state officials to consider expanding DNA collection from convicts, something they say could have saved their daughter.

John and Susan Graham, the parents of Hannah Graham, met with the leader of the Virginia House of Delegates on Friday. Speaker William Howell said the Grahams urged him to push for a state commission to study the possibility of increasing the number of misdemeanor crimes for which a convicts DNA would be collected.

The Grahams, who have mostly maintained a low profile since their daughters death, also spoke with local media outlets. They said if Jesse Matthew, the man who pleaded guilty in Hannah Grahams death, had been DNA tested for a misdemeanor trespassing conviction in 2010, he would have been prosecuted for other violent crimes he committed before he met Hannah Graham.

Jesse Matthew should have been in jail in September 2014, Susan Graham told WCAV. Had he been in jail at that time, he wouldnt have encountered Hannah on the Downtown Mall, he wouldnt have abducted and murdered her, and she would be alive today.

Matthew also pleaded guilty to killing 20-year-old Virginia Tech student Morgan Harrington, who disappeared five years before Graham, and is serving a life sentence for a 2005 attempted murder and sexual assault in Northern Virginia.

The Grahams, who couldnt immediately be reached by The Associated Press, were pushing for a measure that would ask the Virginia State Crime Commission for a study on DNA collections. They met with Howell after a House committee earlier in the week failed to advance the measure.

Howell said he will to ask the commission to consider the study, but they already have a full plate and may not be able to take it up immediately, he said. The request also comes at a time when the state is facing a more than $1 billion budget shortfall.

The commission, which has four full-time staff members, has gotten far more requests than it can possibly review over the past few years, executive director Kristen Howard said. Howells request would be considered along with all others when the commissions executive committee meets later this year to determine its priorities, she said.

In September 2014, Graham had dinner with friends and attended parties off campus before deciding to walk home alone. Surveillance video showed her crossing Charlottesvilles Downtown Mall, then leaving a restaurant with Matthew. Her disappearance prompted a massive search.

Grahams body was found five weeks later on abandoned property about 12 miles from the Charlottesville campus. Court documents said autopsies determined Graham likely died of suffocation or strangulation.
Will King intends to put the representative back into government in his bid for the District 18 seat in the Virginia House of Delegates.

I believe corporate capitalism has destroyed our country and what they have done is make the 1 percent rule the rest of the countrywe no longer have representational government, he said in a recent interview from Ravens Nest Coffeehouse in downtown Culpeper.

A veteran of the U.S. Navy with a background in federal law enforcement, King said he gets suspicious when he hears government officials says they want to lead and fight for constituents.

I dont believe that because No. 1 you know nothing about me. How are you leading me anywhere, what are you leading me to and No. 2 how are you going to fight for me if you dont know what my interests are? he said. Weve got to move away from leadership in government and actually have representatives elected to do their job and represent the people who vote them in there.

King, of Bealeton, is running as a Green Party candidate having received the nomination from the local Piedmont Greens and on Saturday, the Green Party of Virginia. His first run for elected office was born out of a sense of disillusionment about the current state of politics.

This past year I really started to feel more disconnected from our government than ever before.

Raised Republican in rural Michigan, 45-year-old King supported Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders because of his anti-Wall Street stance. When Sanders failed to get the nomination, King looked elsewhere and found the Green Party, supporting Jill Stein for president.

The Green Party is a party of acceptance, he said. We believe in environmental freedoms, that you should have capitalism in your economy, but not corporate. We dont follow a traditional party line. We require a consensus vote on our ideas. We ask for community involvement to let people work with us, not against us.

King is already working at the statehouse to advance legislation he feels is important to the state and local economy, namely a bill that would allow the growing of industrial hemp in Virginia.

Hemp can do everything that we want it to, and you can do it sustainably, he said, naming biodiesel, medicine oils, clothing, paper and plastic among its byproducts. Its a miracle plant we can bring into Virginia. All we need is some starter farms and a processing plant.

King also supports the legalization of medicinal marijuana in Virginia and, eventually, recreational use.

I am a veteran, I volunteer with veterans groups, and I would rather have a person smoking marijuana than on an opiate, he said, noting that crime rates would drop with legalization. I dont believe anyones every gotten into a fight over Funyuns smoking marijuana. Lets focus on the real problem, which is heroin.

King said the DEA has overstepped its bounds in continuing to criminalize marijuana. In addition, the state candidate said it perpetuates the school to prison pipeline.

We are basically giving kids criminal records over a dime bag. Why? Now were affecting their lives and thats not necessary. If were going to talk about the war on drugs, lets talk about the hard drugs, the real drugs, he said.

King appears to have nontraditional views for someone who worked in law enforcement, starting out as an auxiliary officer in Lansing, Michigan near his hometown. He followed the family tradition in joining the Navy, serving for a decade during which time he was stationed in Norfolk.

In 2003, King joined the U.S. Capitol Police, working as a sworn office and later as part of the HAZMAT response team, specializing in weapons of mass destruction. In 2007, he shifted careers and became a federal air marshal until getting injured on the job and being medically retired last year.

King believes his 25 years of combined service makes him ideally suited to represent District 18 in the House of Delegates, a seat currently held by Del. Mike Webert, a Fauquier County Republican.

My whole campaign is based on connecting with people, King said. I understand how to talk to people, how to get them to compromise because what we dont have any more is compromise. Its either my way is the right way and your way is the wrong way or vice versa. The appeal of the Green Party is that we can pick and choose and thats what I want to do.

He is running on a platform that includes educational reform, cutting regulations for small farmers and establishing a single payer option for healthcare, basically giving Medicare to everyone. King feels the states Standards of Learning tests in public schools are ineffective, providing no practical application of knowledge.

Its memorization of a curriculum, take a test, repeat, he said, advocating for greater emphasis on career and vocational training in high school.

As for healthcare, King believes it should be a right of citizenship, criticizing federal lawmakers for being out of touch with the everyday American. They all have government-provided healthcare so why shouldnt everyone else, he said.

King is also campaigning for enhanced community policing and working more with veterans post-service. Then theres the complex issue of immigration, which the state candidate clearly characterized as being in the federal arena, but with a unique angle.

I am an immigrant born in the Philippines. I moved here when I was 2 years old, said King.

The demonization of all undocumented immigrants as criminals is wrong and untrue, he said, voicing opposition to mass deportation or restrictions on immigration. King served in the Navy with people from Africa and Central America and said he would support a pathway to citizenship for people living and working in the U.S.

We can find a way because if they are already in our communities being productive why are we going to want to force them out? he said.

A husband and father, King said is he is taking a wait-and-see approach regarding the current presidential administration.

With Trump, I am hoping that, good or bad, people realize that all politics is local, he said. If you want to make government work for you, we have to start in your district and then push your way up.

District 18 includes northern parts of Culpeper CountyEggbornsville, Rixeyville, Jeffersonton and Brandy Stationall of Rappahannock County and parts of Fauquier and Warren counties.
A Richmond man was sentenced this week to 20 years in prison for robbing a Burger King in Henrico County that he targeted because the manager disrespected him in a quarrel about his order.

Naim Kashif Watson, 28, received the sentence Tuesday from Henrico Circuit Court Judge James Stephen Yoffy for three felony charges: robbing a business with a gun, using a firearm in a felony and possessing a gun while being a convicted felon.

Watson had pleaded guilty in December to all three charges in connection with the robbery of the Burger King in the 8000 block of Brook Road.

According to a prosecutors report on file at the Henrico Circuit Court, police responded to a call of a robbery at 10:31 p.m. on April 27 and encountered Watson leaving the store carrying a blue bag and a gun. He was taken into custody after being challenged at gunpoint by police.

Watson, who told police he had just lost his job, said he needed the money because his girlfriend and baby were in a homeless shelter in New York, according to the prosecutors report.

Watson told police he waited for an employee to throw out trash at the restaurant around closing time and then ran up behind the worker and forced his way into the business with a gun to the employees head.

He demanded the manager open the safe and when he felt the manager wasnt moving quickly enough, shot his handgun into the air to scare employees, according to the prosecutors report, which adds that Watson also pistol whipped the manager and kicked him.

In an excerpt of a police interview on file in the case, Watson said he woke up upset about losing his job and that he needed money and chose to rob that Burger King because the manager had disrespected him weeks earlier. Watson said he thought he had placed his order correctly but had gotten into an argument with the manager.

The manager, who had a facial wound, was taken to the hospital, police said.

Yoffy gave Watson a 30-year sentence on the robbery but suspended 18 years. He also imposed a five-year sentence on the charge of possessing a gun while being a convicted felon and another three years for using a gun while committing a felony.
Jacob Breeden, of Lignum in Culpeper County, recently shot and killed in his front yard what may be Virginias largest-ever feral hog, weighing a whopping 545 pounds.

According to state wildlife officials, the sizable male beast could have alternatively been an escaped domestic pig or a feral swine that someone fattened up for recreational hunting, which they do not encourage due to the significant damage the disease-ridden creatures can cause to crops, property and people.

Whatever it was when 17-year-old Breeden saw it tearing up his yard last Saturday, he grabbed his rifle.

I went outside, and it charged me, it was flapping its jaws together and running toward me, he said. I was kind of shocked to see how big it was. When he came up to me the way he did, I had no choice but to shoot him.

Breeden said he was scared for himself and his young nieces and nephews in the house, calling the thing with tusks a wild boar. His adrenaline kicked in and he took down the beast that measured 6-feet and 10 inches long from snout to tail.

Breeden, who lives in a wooded area, later weighed the hog at a nearby farm. He said hes had encounters with supposed wild boars in the area before, but that he doesnt usually hunt them.

I believe it was a smart one that had been hanging out in the woods for a while, Breeden said.

Mike Dye, district wildlife biologist with the Virginia Dept. of Game & Inland Fisheries, said the creature could not be definitively identified at this point.

If it was a feral hog, it was being feda lot, he said. They typically do not have the resources to get that big in nature.

Feral swine are the same species as and often look very similar to domestic hogs, but are generally thinner with thicker hides of coarse bristly hair and longer tusk. The animals are called by many names including wild boar, wild hog, razorback, piney woods rooter and Russian or Eurasian boar

The average feral hog in Virginia is typically much smaller with an average weight of around 200 pounds for adult males and slightly smaller for females, Dye said.

Larger feral hogs are somewhat uncommon as there is a high mortality rate as there is a lot of hunting pressure on this population, he said.

The beasts are classified as nuisance species in Virginia and can be killed or trapped at any time of the year with no bag limit. They are very destructive to agriculture and environmental resources, including streams and rivers where they like to hang out to cool off, Dye said.

He added that its uncommon for feral hogs to demonstrate aggressive behavior like charging someone as Breeden described, but that it has happened. The Dept. of Game & Inland Fisheries has worked for years with the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture to completely eradicate the species first brought to the country in the 1500s by early settlers as a source of food.

A tissue sample was taken for testing from the large Lignum pig, said Jeffrey Rumbaugh, staff wildlife biologist with the USDA office based in Moseley. The sample will be compared with a genetic archive to see if the creature is related to other feral swine from the area, he said.

Its unlikely that a feral hog in Culpeper would grow to be that large unless it had easy access to something other than acorns or whatever else it could find in the woods, Rumbaugh said.

Still, he said there had been no reports so far of humongous missing domestic hogs in the Lignum area. Rumbaugh said some feral pigs can show aggression, but its the exception and that they typically dont want to be seen and want to get away quickly when faced with human contact.

Feral swine, with their lack of natural predators, have been reported in at least 35 states, including Virginia, with a nationwide population estimated at more than 6 million, according to the USDA.

Efforts in Virginia and locally to eradicate the population through trapping and killing have been effective, Dye said. At one point, he estimated hundreds of feral hogs roaming Culpeper County, a figure he said is now likely below 100.

It is a heavily hunted population with the majority of mortality occurring through hunters, he said. In the next two to three years, they could be eradicated.

Rumbaugh said Culpeper was once considered a hot bed for feral pig activity in that online searches for where to hunt them would point hunters here. He added the statewide population is not what it was a decade ago.

Most people who hunt feral hogs do eat them, and they can taste pretty good, Dye said. However, there is a risk of contracting one of the estimated 30 diseases the pigs can carry, which can also negatively impact domestic livestock.

Breeden said hes not eating his recent kill, saying he was advised it was not safe to eat because the male meat is loaded with testosterone.

If it was a sow, I could have enough sausage for the next few years! he said.

Both Dye and Rumbaugh said if genetic results confirm the beast was a feral hog, its the largest one of which theyve ever heard. Citizens experiencing any kind of wildlife conflicts, including with feral hogs, can report them to the USDA at 855/571-9003.
At least 28 firearms belonging to people accused of domestic violence surrendered guns they owned to local police departments in Virginia under a new law that requires alleged abusers to sell or transfer their weapons within 24 hours, Virginias secretary of public safety says.

The measure, adopted last year as part of a bipartisan gun safety deal struck between Gov. Terry McAuliffe and state lawmakers, has resulted in at least 66 law enforcement agencies across the state agreeing to accept and store firearms from people subject to family abuse permanent protective orders, said Brian J. Moran, state secretary of public safety and homeland security, whose office has been tracking certain elements of the law.

From July 1, when the law took effect, till the end of October, 18 handguns and 10 rifles or shotguns were turned over to various police agencies, Moran said. And an undetermined number of firearms have been turned over to defendants relatives, which also is permitted.

The measure was designed to remove guns from domestic violence situations.

The law doesnt require police to accept and store the weapons, because some agencies dont have the available storage or have other concerns about keeping the weapons, Moran said. But 66 agencies in Virginia have volunteered to accept firearms, including departments in Chesterfield County, Henrico County, Colonial Heights, Dinwiddie County and Hopewell.

Many (defendants) can give it to a family member, which is fine, as long as they have no record, Moran explained. But we would encourage law enforcement (to maintain the firearm) for its safe keeping.

In working with the Virginia Supreme Court, Moran said, the state added language to protective order forms that instructs defendants subject to the writs that they must surrender any guns they own or possess within 24 hours.

Judges presiding in the states juvenile and domestic relations district courts also have the option of verbally instructing defendants about firearm prohibition, Moran said.

Some judges do enter into a colloquy with the defendant, saying, Hey, you need to turn in your guns,  Moran said. Others wont, or dont, because theyre not required by the Supreme Court or by law. You have to leave that up to the respective judges.

Federal law already prohibits people under restraining orders from owning or possessing guns, but Moran said the state measure enhances federal law, primarily by requiring those subject to protective orders to surrender their firearms within 24 hours.

The number of people who were denied the purchase of a gun in Virginia because they were under a protective order rose 15 percent in 2016, from 227 denials in 2015 to 261 last year, records show.

But it is impossible to discern whether the increase is due to the new state law or a reflection of the states record number of firearm transactions in 2016, which topped a half million and jumped 14 percent over 2015.
Oh, please, no.

Thats our reaction to the news that conservative talk show host Laura Ingraham is thinking about seeking the Republican nomination for the U.S. Senate in Virginia in 2018and the right to challenge Tim Kaine.

Our reaction has nothing to do with Ingrahams brand of conservatism, and everything to do with her lack of involvement in the state she presumably wishes to serve.

Ingrahams interest in the Senate seat fits into what has become a bipartisan pattern of national political figures who try to use Virginia as their base to get into office.

Pardon us our provincialism, but shouldnt a U.S. senator from Virginia actually know something about, well, you know, Virginia?

There once was a time when people who wanted to be considered for statewide office had to work their way upusually through service in the General Assembly. That seems almost quaint nowadays.

There are obvious benefits to opening the pool of contenders wider than that select political club in Richmond. Over the years, that allowed Virginia to tap the unique talents of Linwood Holton and Mark Warner, for instance. Neither had served in the General Assembly (or any elected office) before becoming governor. Butand this is crucialthey had demonstrated interest in, and service to, the state they wanted to lead.

However, what were seeing now is a parade of candidates with no record of involvement in Virginia whatsoever. Theyre simply national figures who wake up one day and decide that simply their residence in Virginia qualifies them to represent the state. Frankly, it feels like were being taken advantage of.

Thanks, Northern Virginia.

One name floated as a possible Republican candidate for Kaines seat also has been that of former presidential candidate Carly Fiorina, who now lives in Northern Virginia but who not that long ago was running for the Senate seat in California.

What level of involvement in Virginiaif anyshould be required before we elevate someone to our highest offices?

An argument can be made that a potential governor should have to demonstrate more than a potential senator. Thats because governors deal entirely with state issues. Senators, though, deal with national issues. A case can be made that maybe its more important for senators to know national policy.

On the other hand, we elect senators on a statewide basis for a reason: to represent their states and lend that regional perspective to national debates. Would Ingraham really be representing Virginia and all its quirks? Or simply her particular spectrum of the conservative movement? Where does her first allegiance really lie?

Our complaint about Virginias growing trend of national politicians probably seems rather old-fashioned to those in Northern Virginia. So be it. Wed just like to have candidates who dont need a highway map to figure out where we are.
Most of the time, most of us are focused on this weeks news, next months plans, or last years mistakes. Some of us strategize for achieving goals over a longer term.

And then there are those who think really, really long term.

Were reminded of this by a couple of pieces of news that straddle the divide between futurism and immediacy.

One is speculation about Elon Musks proposal to dig massive tunnels under Los Angeles because hes tired of dealing with traffic congestion. (Read it at CNN Tech online: Elon Musk plans to start digging tunnels to beat traffic, Jan. 25).

Sounds farfetchedbut as the story points out, Mr. Musk has a record of surprising successes in far-out fields. His rocket company, SpaceX, has earned praise for its low prices, CNN says, and his motor company, Tesla, has raised the bar in the electric car industry.

Tunneling is expensive. But if it can be done cost-effectively, Mr. Musk may be the one to accomplish it.

Unless Amazon tycoon Jeff Bezos does so first. CNN points out that Amazon already has filed for a patent on a plan to deliver products via tunnels.

Techcrunch.com reported on Mr. Musks recent tweet that he might start tunneling soonin a month or so. You can make up your own mind about that statement, since tweets tend to favor impulsive comments rather than major announcements.

Now lets leap ahead to some serious speculation.

In FutureScapes Newsletter, futurist Rohit Talwar imagines what changes might affect our built environment, perhaps as soon as a decade from now.

As Mr. Talwar said, 10 years isnt really that long a time: A decade ago we were not using smartphones.

Focusing on urban areas, he imagines that:

 Fewer parking spaces will be needed because drones (or autonomous cars) will deliver packages and people to their destinations.

 Drones will fill other needs, including not just inspecting but also repairing skyscrapers and other forms of infrastructure.

 The built environment will continue to grow upto rise vertically. That includes even agriculture, which will take increasing advantage of technologies allowing plants to be grown in stacked spaces and controlled environments.

 Buildings and every element in them, including the very girders, will be embedded with sensors. This will enable buildings to be self-diagnostic, in terms of basic safety; to respond to human preferences for lighting and other environmental factors; and even to manage themselves, handling rentals and other functions without immediate human intervention.

 New materials will allow buildings to alter shape, such as angled corners becoming more rounded in response to high winds.

 Not just the shapes but the uses of buildings will have to shift to keep up with fast-changing employment and commercial trends; building spaces must become ever more functionally flexible.

And if Mr. Musk can figure out how to divert all traffic underground, just think how much real estate could be freed up for more and smarter buildings as imagined by Mr. Talwar.

Tweetable Trump trend

The Chinese are at it again.

Remember the rooster-cum-Trump balloons produced by a Chinese company (The Daily Progress, Jan. 13)?

Even though Twitter is blocked by China, President Trumps penchant for tweets is well-known there.

So well-known that new websites are springing up allowing users to send messages copying Donald Trumps style and purporting to come from him, reports The Associated Press. Such as:

 @realdonaldtrump would like to wish you a Happy Chinese New Year.

 @realdonaldtrump thinks Shanghai Jiaotong University is better than its crosstown rival.

 @realdonaldtrump wants to buy a jianbing [typical Chinese street food] and wants Mexico to pay for it.

President Trump apparently is just a joke in China right nowfirst, because hes eminently caricaturable, but also because his policies dont really affect the Chinese at present.

If he made it much more difficult to get U.S. visas, then you will see a lot of people insult him, suggested Vincent Zhang, an employee at an online dating site.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Vice President Mike Pence told a crowd gathered in Washington for the annual March for Life rally that ending taxpayer-funded abortion is an important priority of President Donald Trump.

He said the Trump administration would work with the Congress to end taxpayer funding of abortion and abortion providers, and we will devote those resources to health care services for women across America.

A budget provision known as the Hyde Amendment already bans federal funding for Medicaid coverage of most abortions. Conservatives would like to see the rule made into a permanent law.

Speaking to a crowd gathered near the Washington Monument, Pence said the nations founders, in the Declaration of Independence, intended life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness to be for all Americans, including the unborn.

He accused the U.S. Supreme Court, in its landmark Roe v. Wade decision in 1973 that legalized abortion, of having turned away from these timeless ideals.

He said President Donald Trump would be nominating a Supreme Court justice next week who will uphold the God-given liberties enshrined in our Constitution.
On February 4, 1941, Roy Plunkett, a chemist for the Kinetic Chemical Company, received a U.S. patent for Tetrafluoroethylene Polymers, now known under the trade name Teflon. In the introduction to the patent Plunkett describes the new polymer he had created as having exceptional properties, including being highly resistant to corrosive influences and to oxidation, and which can be molded and spun and put in to a wide variety of uses where its peculiar properties would be advantageous. A highly lucrative patent in the long run and yet, his invention was certainly by accident, one of those rare discoveries that arise out of nowhere.

Kinetic Chemical was founded by DuPont in partnership with General Motors in the 1930s with a primary goal of making an air conditioning system for high end automobiles. For many years General Motors had been searching for a replacement of the dangerous refrigerants then in use, those such as ammonia or sulfur dioxide because they could prove deadly to the occupants of the vehicle if the coolant lines we pierced. Working with Freon, a dichlorodifluoromethane, the company went on to produce R-12, the standard for the next 50 years and chemist Plunkett was assigned to this manufacturing process.

One day in 1938 as he attempted to make a new chlorofluorocarbon refrigerant, the tetrafluoroethylene gas in its pressure tank stopped flowing. Sensing something amiss, Plunkett recorded the tanks weight and deduced that there must be something still remaining within but for some reason it had stopped flowing out. Becoming curious about this event he finally sawed the tank apart and was shocked by what he found. Inside the steel tank a waxy white material had coated the walls from top to bottom. In addition, the substance was oddly slippery, almost like a grease but more solid. Analysis showed that it was polymerized perfluoroethylene. Somehow the metal of the tanks walls had acted as a catalyst at high pressure. Kinetic Chemicals registered the Teflon trademark in 1945. By 1948, Kinetic Chemicals was producing over 900 tons of Teflon per year in its Parkersburg, West Virginia plant. Some of the early applications of Teflon were for use in seals and piping holding in the highly reactive gas uranium hexafluoride at the government enrichment plant at Oak Ridge, Tennessee.

Teflon is labeled a thermoplastic polymer although it is almost impossible to get it to re-form once set. It is a white solid at room temperature and has a relatively low density of 2.2 grams per cubic centimeter. Noted for its high melting point of 327 degrees Celsius, Teflon is used for many industrial items that may experience rough service usage especially at elevated temperatures. All military electronics utilize Teflon coated wires because they do not degrade as other materials such as polyethylene or PVC do. In addition, Teflon wires will remain usable in the deep cold, at least to -79 Celsius. Teflon gains its properties from the strong carbonfluorine bonds in its structure with fluorine being a highly electronegative element. The only chemicals that can attack Teflon are liquid Column One elements such as sodium and very hot liquid Column Two substances such as calcium or magnesium. Teflon has a high thermal expansion coefficient of 120 x 10^-6/degree Celsius, over twice that of ordinary PVC. The electrical conduction of Teflon is almost nil, with resistivity approaching 1 x 10^16 Ohm-meter.

The strangest thing about Teflon is that it really is a slippery substance. When you pick up a piece of Teflon it almost seems to want to slide from your hand. That is because all surface electrons are bonded, there are very few to make electrostatic bonds with nearby objects. In fact, it has one of the lowest coefficients of static friction, coming in around 0.06, which compared to polished steel is almost an order of magnitude lower. Because Teflon has such a low free electron count, it does not develop the statistical van der Waals forces to any degree at its surface, meaning that it is the only known surface to which a gecko cannot stick to when climbing.

Plunkett received many awards for his singular discovery over the years and was inducted to the Plastics Hall of Fame in 1973 and the National Inventors Hall of Fame in 1985. He passed away in 1994 at his Texas home at the age of 83.

In 1954, the wife of French engineer Marc Gregoire urged him to try the material he had been using on fishing tackle on her cooking pans. He subsequently created the first Teflon-coated, non-stick pan.
ELKO  Mines and their vendors will have a chance to get to know each other and learn a few things during the second annual Elko Mining Reverse Expo in March at the Elko Convention Center.

Registration for the event begins Tuesday and ends Feb. 24, however the event sold out in less than two days last year, said Pam Borda, executive director for Northeastern Nevada Regional Development Authority.

The reverse expo is like speed dating, suppliers will get to pitch to the mine operators but they will have only five minutes to do so, she said. Plus we are bringing in two experts to help them get the message across in five minutes as well as help them with how to market their trade booths.

The daylong program was inspired by the reverse expo the Nevada Mining Association has in Lake Tahoe each year. Just like last year, NVMA and the Nevada Governors Office of Economic Development will help NNRDA host the event.

This event is a fabulous demonstration of the many opportunities available in Nevadas mining industry and all along the mining supply chain, said NVMA President Dana Bennett. As a foundational industry, mining is essential to Nevadas success in advanced manufacturing and other emerging sectors, and the Elko Reverse Expo provides a fun and unique way of strategically advancing business development in rural Nevada.

Companies have three ways to participate  sponsorship, speed pitching and booth analysis.

If a business sponsors the event, it can set up a booth in the main hall of the convention center to highlight services.

The speed pitching provides a company an opportunity to sit down and make rapid fire pitches to multiple mining companies.

Booth analysis provides an evaluation of an exposition booth by one of the Wests most prominent branding and marketing consultants, NNRDA states.

The reverse expo begins at 7:30 a.m. March 15 with registration and a continental breakfast.

The event will also feature two speakers.

Erik Kieser will tell participants how to craft their best elevator speech. He will help businesses craft a tight, clean, lean speech to sell their products, services or skills. The workshop will have examples and exercises and allow participants to practice so they can develop their best foot-in-the-door effort.

Michele Reeves will help participants learn techniques for building a distinct convention brand. Reeves is an urban branding and marketing strategist with more than 16 years of experience.

Companies also will have time for individual consultations with the guest speakers.

To register go to www.nevadamining.org. For information call 775-829-2121 or 738-2100.
Gold mine collapses in Tanzania

DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania (AP)  A search team in Tanzania was trying to rescue more than a dozen people trapped underground after a Chinese-owned gold mine collapsed in a remote region, a police official said Thursday.

Police commander Mponjoli Mwabulambo said a massive mound of earth collapsed early Thursday in Nyarugusu village in the countrys northeast, burying at least 13 workers, including a Chinese national.

A rescue team has been deployed since morning. The team hasnt managed to pull out a body, he said.

The commander said the mine is part of a Chinese company known as RZP. It was not immediately possible to get more details about the mines owners.

Scientists grow human organs in pigs

NEW YORK (AP)  Scientists have grown human cells inside pig embryos, a very early step toward the goal of growing livers and other human organs in animals to transplant into people.

The cells made up just a tiny part of each embryo, and the embryos were grown for only a few weeks, researchers reported Thursday.

Such human-animal research has raised ethical concerns. The U.S. government suspended taxpayer funding of experiments in 2015. The new work, done in California and Spain, was paid for by private foundations.

Any growing of human organs in pigs is far away, said Juan Carlos Izpisua Belmonte of the Salk Institute in La Jolla, California, an author of the paper in the journal Cell.

He said the new research is just a very early step toward the goal.
ELKO  When it comes to storytelling, Carolyn Dufurrena has plenty of yarn to spin.

Dufurrena has authored and co-authored several books including her latest, Quiet, Except for the Wind: Poems and Stories from the Cold Desert, which she will be selling and signing during the Cowboy Poetry Gathering. She is a long term writer for Range Magazine and has recently been awarded the Will Rogers Gold Medallion for her contribution to Reflections of the West: Cowboy Painters and Poets. She has also created nine short films.

Dufurrena and her family own the Quinn River Ranch near Denio. Much of her storytelling has to do with ranch life and the challenges of living in rural northwestern Nevada. She has also created nine short films.

Dufurena is teaching a three-day workshop titled Its Your Story: Share it with the World. She will be showing those enrolled how to combine still imagery and narrative to produce a short, digital tale.

Its another way to tell a story and its a way to tell a story to a whole bunch of people that you might not even know, said Dufurrena about her filmmaking workshop.

This project grew out of the Deep West Video Program that media producer Taki Telonidis started at Folklife Center in the late 90s.

Nevada Arts Council has recently asked her if she would be interested in presenting this type of storytelling to school kids and community groups.

Besides the workshop, Dufurrena is also pairing up with Kent Rollins, Jack Sammon and Jack Walther Jr. for Real Stories. Straight up, an evening of heroes, horses and high times.

The four will share the trials, tribulations and triumphs of life in the Nevada high desert, the Texas-Oklahoma range and the Australian Outback.

This performance kicks off the gathering and is also a tribute to the memory of Jack and Irene Walther, a local ranching couple who had plenty of their own stories to tell before they headed out to the final Promised Land. The show is from 7 8:30 p.m. at the G Three Bar Theater, 501 Railroad St.
The attack on Bhansali was also captured on camera.

Mumbai: The film industry reacted aggressively to the shocking attack on Sanjay Leela Bhansali on the sets of his film Padmavati in Jaipur.

Members of a group called Rajput Karni Sena on Friday slapped Bhansali and pulled him by his hair on the sets of the film at Jaigarh Fort and also vandalised the sets of the film starring Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh.

According to the members, the filmmaker is presenting wrong facts about the Rajput queen Padmavati, on whom the film is based on, and that was reason for their action.

Several B-Town stars took to Twitter to express her anger at the incident. Almost all the celebrities on Twitter tweeted how engared they were at the incident while also expressing support to the filmmaker.

The hashtag #IStandBySLB also started trending on Twitter post the incident. The celebrities also demanded action against the attackers while throwing light on the industry repeatedly getting targeted for various reasons. They called for the film industry not to be silent on the issue this time and come together to raising their voice.

Read some of the tweets by celebrities
Mumbai: Everyones been whispering about how lucky Sara Ali Khan is that she gets to debut with the Bollywood hunk Hrithik Roshan. But the fate of the movie, produced by Karan Johar-led Dharma Productions, is hanging mid air as Hrithik is yet to give his nod in black and white.

Apparently, the superstar has demanded a whopping 50 Cr fee and wouldnt settle for anything less. A leading tabloid quoted a source saying, That film might not see the light of the day because Hrithik had demanded a 50 crore fee for acting in it. And Dharma feels that at that price, the film is not feasible. And Dharma feels that at that price, the film is not feasible. . The actor has informed Dharma that he is not willing to negotiate the price. So, right now the films fate is hanging, even though a team of over a dozen people have already gone abroad and done a recce for the film.

The director of the film, Karan Malhotra, has also been unlucky so far. After a grand debut with the revamped version of the 1990 classic Agneepath, Karan was supposed to direct Shuddi but got shelved and now clouds loom over the fate of this one.

Ironically, both these films have one thing in common- Hrithik was offered to play the male lead.
Mumbai: Its not unfair to call Kangana Ranaut a self-made woman. The actress, who has always held her ground and has never hesitated to speak her mind, is undoubtedly one of the best actors in the Indian film industry. Kangana has numerous hit films to back that statement up.

While in the industry, we mostly know all about our actors budding friendships and relationships, Kanganas have always been quite secretive in nature. When her alleged relationship with Hrithik Roshan came out, the private affair turned into a public circus.

Kangana, who will be next seen in Vishal Bharadwajs Rangoon, spoke about how finding real friendship doesnt come easy to her in the industry. I can only speak for myself. People can have great friendships. Why generalise things? However, in my case, I dont find it easy or even possible, because in our environment, people you are close to, or the ones who love you, want to hold on to you and control you. The ones, who dont do that, are envious. So, your environment can be extremely confusing in the industry, which leads to a lot of personal and professional conflict., the actress told HT.

Moving forward, Kangana also said that she would never suggest anybody to make friends in the industry as it would create huddles in the professional front. She added, As for the profession, you will not be hired again, if you arent good at your job. So, even if its easy to make friends in the industry, I wouldnt suggest it to anybody, who is trying to pursue a career in films. Pleasing people will not get them anywhere. In short term, it might work, but eventually, it wont.
WASHINGTON  The flurry of bold executive orders and of highly provocative Cabinet nominations (such as a secretary of education who actually believes in school choice) has been encouraging to conservative skeptics of Donald Trump. But it shouldnt erase the troubling memory of one major element of Trumps inaugural address.

The foreign policy section has received far less attention than so revolutionary a declaration deserved. It radically redefined the American national interest as understood since World War II.

Trump outlined a world in which foreign relations are collapsed into a zero-sum game. They gain, we lose. As in: For many decades, weve enriched foreign industry at the expense of American industry; subsidized the armies of other countries while depleting our own. And most provocatively this: The wealth of our middle class has been ripped from their homes and then redistributed all across the world.

JFKs inaugural pledged to support any friend and oppose any foe to assure the success of liberty. Note that Trump makes no distinction between friend and foe (and no reference to liberty). Theyre all out to use, exploit and surpass us.

No more, declared Trump: From this day forward, its going to be only America First.

Imagine how this resonates abroad. America First was the name of the organization led by Charles Lindbergh that bitterly fought FDR before U.S. entry into World War II  right through the Battle of Britain  to keep America neutral between Churchills Britain and Hitlers Reich.

Not that Trump was consciously imitating Lindbergh. I doubt he was even aware of the reference. He just liked the phrase. But I can assure you that in London and in every world capital they are aware of the antecedent and the intimations of a new American isolationism. Trump gave them good reason to think so, going on to note the right of all nations to put their own interests first. America included.

Some claim that putting America first is a reassertion of American exceptionalism. On the contrary, it is the antithesis. It makes America no different from all the other countries that define themselves by a particularist blood-and-soil nationalism. What made America exceptional, unique in the world, was defining its own national interest beyond its narrow economic and security needs to encompass the safety and prosperity of a vast array of allies. A free world marked by open trade and mutual defense was President Trumans vision, shared by every president since.

Until now.

Some have argued that Trump is just dangling a bargaining chip to negotiate better terms of trade or alliance. Or that Trumps views are so changeable and unstable  telling European newspapers two weeks ago that NATO is obsolete and then saying NATO is very important to me  that this is just another unmoored entry on a ledger of confusion.

But both claims are demonstrably wrong. An inaugural address is no off-the-cuff riff. These words are the product of at least three weeks of deliberate crafting for an address that Trump said would express his philosophy. Moreover, to remove any ambiguity, Trump prefaced his America first proclamation with: From this day forward, a new vision will govern our land.

Trumps vision misunderstands the logic underlying the far larger, far-reaching view of Truman. The Marshall Plan sure took wealth away from the American middle class and distributed it abroad. But for a reason. Altruism, in part. But mostly to stabilize Western Europe as a bulwark against an existential global enemy.

We carried many free riders throughout the Cold War. The burden was heavy. But this was not a mindless act of charity; it was an exercise in enlightened self-interest. After all, it was indeed better to subsidize foreign armies  German, South Korean, Turkish and dozens of others  and have them stand with us, rather than stationing even more American troops everywhere around the world at greater risk of both blood and treasure.

We are embarking upon insularity and smallness. Nor is this just theory. Trumps long-promised but nonetheless abrupt withdrawal from the Trans-Pacific Partnership is the momentous first fruit of his foreign policy doctrine. Last year the prime minister of Singapore told John McCain that if we pulled out of TPP youll be finished in Asia. He knows the region.

For 70 years, we sustained an international system of open commerce and democratic alliances that has enabled America and the West to grow and thrive. Global leadership is what made America great. We abandon it at our peril.
Mumbai: Lead actors of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Padmavati' have finally broken their silence and reacted to the shameful act that took place on Friday where the film's set in Jaipur was vandalized by members of Rajput Karni Seva and the filmmaker was assaulted.

After leading lady expressed her shock and sorrow over the incidence, her male co-stars in 'Padmavati' expressed their grief over this unfortunate incident that has happened to their 'Sanjay sir'.

Ranveer Singh, who plays Alauddin Khilji, wrote, "As a team, we are making 'Padmavati' keeping in mind the sensitivities and emotions of the people of Rajasthan and the Rajput community. Sanjay Sir is one of the most accomplished & authentic filmmakers we have in India, & he wont ever do anything to hurt anyones feelings. Whats happened is very unfortunate. We hope the people of Rajasthan will understand & empathise with our intentions & give us their support."

Shahid Kapoor, who regrets not being by the side of the ace filmmaker when the attack took place, tweeted: "Very very sad. Words do fall short and feel too little to express feelings. Violence is unacceptable. This incident has shocked me. We need to look deep within as a society, as a country, as a people. Where are we headed. Sanjay bhansali is a film maker who the country should be proud of. You will know when u see #padmavati the dignity he brings to it. And my only regret is that I wasn't by his side when this happened."
Bollywood stars have come out in support of Sanjay Leela Bhansali.

Jaipur: Five persons, who were detained for creating nuisance on the sets of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's film 'Padmavati', have been released, police said on Saturday. They were allegedly involved in creating nuisance during the shooting of the film in Jaigarh yesterday, SHO Amer Police Station Narendra Kumar said.

They were detained and later released yesterday.

Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali was allegedly assaulted yesterday by activists of a Rajput community group who also forced stoppage of shooting of his movie 'Padmavati' by vandalising the set at Jaigarh Fort, alleging that the director was "distorting facts".

Police said it had detained five persons for disturbing peace even though no complaint was received from Bhansali's side.

The ruckus took place when the film, in which Deepika Padukone is playing Padmavati and Ranveer Singh is playing Alaudin Khilji, was being shot at the historic fort, eyewitnesses said.

The activists of Karni Sena had gathered at the site and demanded stoppage of the shooting. They stormed the set and damaged some chairs and other objects, forcing stoppage of the shooting.

After the incident, the director decided not to go ahead with the shooting in the state and is returning to Mumbai.

"We had warned the filmmakers against presenting wrong facts. When we came to know about the shooting, we gathered there and protested. Besides the Karni Sena activists, there were several other people who had gone there to watch the shooting. Someone from the mob slapped him and pulled his hair," district president of Karni Sena Narayan Singh had claimed.

"There was a protest and the issue was settled after both the parties held talks," DPC North (Jaipur) Anshuman Bhomia had said.

He had said that no FIR was lodged by anyone but five persons have been detained by the police for disturbing peace.

Singh had claimed that Bhansali wants to present a "distorted fact" about Rani Padmavati which will not tolerated by the Rajput community.
THIRUVANNATHAPURAM: The Forest Department has dusted off an earlier plan to create one of Asias finest Aviary within the Kottoor Elephant Rescue Centre which spreads over 40 acres along the foot of the Agasthyarkoodam hills. The Forest Department will soon invite architects to design an aviary which blends with the leafy ambience of the elephant centre. The Aviary was first mooted in 2012, when K B Ganesh Kumar was forest minister.

Sources said that the Department has now zeroed in on three aviary models: the Birds of Eden, Western Cape in South Africa; Flying High Bird Sanctuary, Apple Tree Creek, Australia; and Jurong Bird Park, Singapore. The Birds of Eden has been chosen because it is the largest free flight aviary in the world. All the three aviaries are almost similar in topography to the Kottoor centre. For instance, all the three have a backwater running through them just like in Kottoor and are set within a tropical ambience.

At this initial stage we can only say that there are certain basic requirements, a top Social Forestry official said. The architecture of the aviary should merge with the forest, there should be species-specific aviaries and the birds should have enough free space to fly about, he added. The centre already has a backwater that passes through it. The architects should find a way to incorporate the backwaters in their aviary design, the official said.

However, Avian experts are uncertain about the kind of attraction the proposed aviary holds for birds. Except for the birds endemic to the area, and the migratory birds that make their annual visits, it is not clear how new species could be attracted, said author and birdwatcher C Rahim. Water birds like cormorants and snake birds require large paddy fields or water bodies within five kilometres of the aviary to source food, and as for egrets they require marshes, he said.
The costume is displayed on a mannequin with the chiseled likeness of Keaton and stands at approximately 6-foot-5 and is displayed on a 2-inch gray and white mounted base with Batman Returns titled on the front center. (Photo: Youtube)

Los Angeles, Jan 28 (PTI) The Batsuit worn by Michael Keaton in 1992 superhero film "Batman Returns" sold at auction for USD 41,250.

According to the Nate D Sanders Auction website, the costume is displayed on a mannequin with the chiseled likeness of Keaton. It stands at approximately 6-foot-5 and is displayed on a 2-inch gray and white mounted base with Batman Returns titled on the front center.

Original parts of the Batsuit that were featured in the film include the cowl, cape and body. "Batman Returns" reached audiences on June 19, 1992. It earned USD 45.69 million across 2,644 theaters during its first weekend - the highest-grossing opening weekend of any film up to that point in time.
Pro-Jallikattu protesters during a demonstration against the ban on the Jallikattu at Marina Beach in Chennai. (Photo: AP)

Chennai: Twenty two persons have been arrested in connection with incidents of arson and rioting here on January 23, when the week-long pro jallikattu protests at the Marina beach turned violent, police said.

Police said that they were arrested in connection with various incidents including arson and damaging police vehicles and public property.

Of the 22, four persons were minors, police said and did not divulge their names and details.

Some of the arrested persons had earlier been jailed under the stringent Goondas Act, a city police release said.

The arrests were made on Friday and Saturday under Vadapalani, MKB Nagar, Vepery and Egmore Police station limits, it said.

The arrested persons were also involved in damaging government buses and vehicles of Fire and Rescue services, it added.
Chennai: More than one kg of cocaine, worth Rs 5 crore, was seized and a South African woman, who had swallowed capsules containing the contraband, arrested at the airport here, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) said today.

The woman -- Princess Ntombifuthi Msomi (47)  arrived here yesterday from Sao Paulo in Brazil via Abu Dhabi, the NCB said.

"She came on a tourist visa and was planning to leave the country after delivering the consignment of cocaine," an NCB press release said.

It said based on specific information, NCB sleuths intercepted the woman at the international airport yesterday and seized 1.075 kg of cocaine from her possession.

The seized cocaine was concealed in "82 capsules" which the woman had swallowed, the release added.

Stating that this modus operandi was followed by "experts" who could swallow "around 200 capsules", the NCB said they could also keep them concealed in their stomach "up to 48 hours".

The seized contraband was worth around Rs 5 crore in the local illegal market, it was of a very pure form and was sourced directly from the cocaine production belt in South America, it added.

The woman was believed to be working at the behest of the South American Cocaine cartel and a probe was on to unearth her links in Chennai, the NCB said.
Indore: Over five years after RTI activist Shehla Masood was shot dead in Bhopal, a CBI Court here today convicted interior designer Zahida Pervez and three other accused for the murder, and sentenced them to life imprisonment.

Judge B K Paloda, presiding over the Special CBI Court, pronounced Zahida, the prime accused, and three others --her friend Saba Farooqui, Saqib Ali alias `Danger' and Tabish--guilty in the high-profile case probed by the CBI.

However, the Court pardoned another accused Irfan, a Kanpur resident who later turned approver.

According to the agency, Zahida, who is married, approached Saqib Ali, who had criminal record, to eliminate Shehla as she was jealous of the latter's growing ties with former BJP MLA Dhruvnarayan Singh with whom the interior designer shared a close camaraderie.

Saqib Ali, in turn, hired professional shooters Tabish and Irfan, to kill the 38-year-old RTI activist, it said.

Zahida, her friend Saba, Tabish and Saqib were convicted under IPC Sections 302 (murder) and 120 (b) (criminal conspiracy), among others, and awarded life term.

"The prosecution convinced the Court that Zahida, out of jealousy, hired the killers to get rid of Shehla due to the latter's growing intimacy with the then BJP MLA from Bhopal Dhruvnarayan Singh," CBI Special Public Prosecutor Atul Kumar told reporters here.

The Central agency had produced 80 witnesses in the Court during the trial that lasted for five years.

Shehla was shot dead in broad daylight on August 16, 2011 close to her house in Koh-e-Fiza area of Bhopal.

Unhappy with the Court's judgement, Zahida told reporters, "I am surprised at the verdict."

A large number of people were present outside the Special Court where tight security was made.

Meanwhile, defence lawyers Sanjay Sharma and Sunil Shrivastava said they are going to challenge the verdict against their clients in the High Court.
Balasore: A woman was beheaded while her teenaged children and a relative were hacked to death by unidentified assailants in a village in Balasore district, police said.

They were killed with sharp weapons and the bodies bearing multiple injuries were recovered from a hut, barely 50 metres from Balasore-Gopalpur road under Jaydev Kasba police outpost limit.

Police recovered a sword, an axe and some ammunition from the hut where they were murdered.

The deceased were identified as Prativa Mandal (44), her son Suman Mandal (15), her daughter Sujan Mandal (18) and their relative Bibek Majhi (13), police said.

Pratibha Mandal was beheaded and her severed head was found along the road near the murder site.

It appears that old dispute over property was the reason behind the murder, police said.
Vijayawada: The fate of Pulichintala project seems bleak as AP government wants to divert the Krishna waters totally to Rayalaseema while Telangana government planned to construct two new projects on Krishna River.

Nearly Rs2,000 crore was spent on Pulichitnala project by treating it as most useful for Krishna delta but now it may turn only an ideal project without any use.

Nearly 45 TMC feet storage capacity is in the project but it may remain an empty water project.

Now the experts of Krishna delta irrigation requested to make alternative plans to use the irrigation project for water storage purpose. Once the farming community of Krishna delta fought for the project. But though the project was made reality it did not get water for at least 50 per cent of its full storage.

The dipping water reserves in Krishna River turned a challenge to the state government and finally the project too could not receive reasonable water levels from the time it was dedicated to the public by the then CM N. Kiran Kumar Reddy.

AP Rytanga Samakya president Erneni Nagendra Nath said that the government should take steps to pump water to Pulichintala project from Pattiseema through the Krishna River. He said that the Telangana government is following the same practice on Krishna and Godavari rivers.

He said that the illegal projects of Telangana government would totally damage the interests of Andhra farming community. AP Delta Parirakshana Samiti president Kolanukonda Sivaji said that the AP government should stop the illegal projects of the Telangana government.

AP would face severe water crisis due to the Telangana irrigation projects.
He disbursed the cheques drawn from the police welfare fund to each of the seven injured cops  undergoing treatment at the city police hospital in Egmore.

Chennai: City police commissioner S. George launched the disbursal of relief measure of Rs 10,000 each for the injured lot of the city police strength.

He disbursed the cheques drawn from the police welfare fund to each of the seven injured cops  undergoing treatment at the city police hospital in Egmore.

Additional Commissioner of Police (Headquarters) SN Seshasai who disbursed cheques to the injured at his office stated that the assistance had been enhanced to Rs 15,000 for Senthil Kumar, driver of JCoP (West) Santhosh Kumar, who was rescued from the brink of getting murdered by the mob.

Thankfully, he was saved by the onlookers who intervened and the force returned to get him away. Jurisdictional Additional Commissioners (law & order) will disburse the rest of the cheques of welfare assistance to the injured cops.

As many as 142 cops were injured in the violence that was unleashed against khakis, and 180 cases had been registered in this regard. A total of 215 persons were arrested for rioting. Over 100 more were identified with the help of the footages and mobile recordings, and efforts are on to arrest them as well, he said. The beneficiary list did not include the IPS officers who too faced the brunt of violence.
Recent news of so-called autonomous vehicles in Reno and Las Vegas have us wondering how soon they might debut in a place like Elko  and how they might be received by motorists here in Nevadas outback.

In downtown Las Vegas, a driverless electric shuttle started operating on public streets this month under a pilot program. It carried up to 12 passengers and a human attendant along a stretch of Fremont Street. The vehicle has no steering wheel or brakes, and was guided by GPS without the need for lane lines to navigate the route.

In Reno, a University of Nevada project is getting underway to collect data that will enable an electric bus to learn how to drive itself. The buses will still have drivers  at least for now.

So, just how reliable are these vehicles and how close will they get to using human-like judgment when it comes to keeping us safe? Its an important question, considering that a man was killed last year when his driverless Tesla slammed into a semi when it was unable to distinguish the trucks trailer from the clear, blue sky.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk downplayed the danger, but elsewhere he has described the science of Artificial Intelligence as our biggest existential threat.

The technology that is rapidly enabling driverless vehicles to come out of the workshop and onto public streets was largely developed under Department of Defense programs. DARPAs Deep Learning (DL) program is a result of combining artificial neural networks with Big Data.

Due in large part to the DL revolution, we are in the surprising position that the rollout of self-driving vehicles is now more limited by the speed of policy change than by its technical readiness, states an unclassified document authored by the nonprofit MITRE Corporation.

Nevada is one of the places where policy changes are enabling the real-time testing of driverless vehicles. Scientists prefer the term autonomous but such vehicles really do not have any freedom of choice  they can only respond to sensory data based on pre-programmed conditions. On the other hand, humans  who are truly autonomous  can set their own goals and strategies.

The difference was highlighted this month in an Associated Press report that looked at how driverless vehicles might respond to a moral dilemma:

Imagine youre behind the wheel when your brakes fail. As you speed toward a crowded crosswalk, youre confronted with an impossible choice: veer right and mow down a large group of elderly people, or veer left into a woman pushing a stroller. Now imagine youre riding in the back of a self-driving car. How would it decide?

To make such a choice requires a leap from Artificial Intelligence to what scientists are calling Artificial General Intelligence, meaning a human-like ability to pursue long-term goals and exercise purposive behavior.

According to the Federation of American Scientists, this field using multi-layered neural networks is experiencing broad and unforeseen successes. For example, this month the Department of Defense demonstrated a swarm of autonomous micro-drones that demonstrated advanced swarm behaviors such as collective decision-making, adaptive formation flying, and self-healing, reported FAS.

Still, the organization concluded that Sentient machines, let alone a revolt of robots against their creators, are still somewhere far over the horizon, and may be permanently in the realm of fiction.

Driverless technology still has many obstacles to overcome, according to the MITRE report, which explains that vehicle behavior has to be based on some sort of map:

Then, if it can see lane markings, it can figure out what to do  unless there has been recent construction, in which case it must decide which are the old misleading lane markings and which are the new ones. If it is snowing, or there is a road with no lane markings, what does it do?  More complex is the interaction with other things, from other vehicles, to pedestrians, to potholes, to careless children, to windblown garbage cans.

These are real-world anomalies that humans are used to encountering, although not always successfully. To find out if machines can do it better, we need demonstrations such as the ones under way in Nevada.

We wish these brave, new inhabitants luck as they begin to populate our streets and highways. Just dont expect us to wave as they drive by.
New Delhi: Having rejected indigenously built 'Tejas' as too heavy, the Indian Navy has launched a Request for Information to procure 57 multi-role combat aircraft for its carrier.

Last month, Navy Chief Admiral Sunil Lanba had said the "present LCA does not meet the carrier capability required by the Navy".

He had said the service would continue to support its development but "at the same time we will seek aircraft elsewhere which can operate on the aircraft carrier".

The RFI, dated January 17, says the aircraft are "intended as day-and-night capable, all-weather, multi-role, deck-based combat aircraft which can be used for air defence, air-to-surface operations, buddy refuelling, reconnaissance etc. from IN aircraft carriers".

The companies have been asked to respond by May. While it has not been specified whether the Navy wants single-engine or twin-engine multi-role carrier-borne fighters, sources said that given the role mentioned, the aircraft will be a medium-to-heavy, twin-engine one.

At present, the Navy operates 45 MIG-29K jets, which from time-to-time face serviceability issues.

Currently, six planes are compatible for aircraft carrier flying. They are Rafale (Dassault, France), F-18 Super Hornet (Boeing, US), MIG-29K (Russia), F-35B and F-35C (Lockheed Martin, US) and Gripen (Saab, Sweden).

While F-18, Rafale and MIG-29K are twin engine jets, the remaining three have single engine.

The government also wants to manufacture these planes in India and tender has asked the original equipment manufacturers to respond to it.

It also sought to know at what level of Transfer of Technology (ToT) and deep repair expertise the company is willing to share with India.

It also asked the vendor to specify critical technologies required and comment on its ability to absorb the aircraft manufacturing technology at the levels of sub vendor/supply chain elements in India through ToT from OEM and its partners.

As regards the delivery schedule, the first lot of jets have to be delivered in three years after inking of the contract and all the 57 have to be delivered in the next three years.
Mr Dominic from Bengaluru, who was working in the UAE for over 20 years, died on January 18, leaving the family living in Dubai shattered. (Representational Image)

Bengaluru: I am just insecure about my children's future, said Marilyn Stanislaus, whose husband Marilyn Dominics body is stuck at a Sharjah hospital for non-payment of bills.

Mr Dominic from Bengaluru, who was working in the UAE for over 20 years, died on January 18, leaving the family living in Dubai shattered. It is very difficult to raise three children and that too in Dubai, said Marilyn, who is worried about raising funds to get her husbands body released.

Those who studied with my husband in Bengaluru and people in Dubai have come forward to offer help since the news broke, she said.

I am working, but making ends meet has been very difficult since my husband lost his job in Dubai. He was stressed since then, she said.

Mr Dominic fell ill on December 26, 2016 and was rushed to the hospital where he died.

Since then, Marilyn said she had been struggling to pay 30,000 dirhams (`5.55 lakh) she owes the hospital.

Funeral

The funeral will happen in Dubai and that is again a challenge. There is a protocol that needs to be followed, she said. A lot of well-wishers have come forward to help the family.

The Indian Consulate also reached out to help. It is so heartening to see so much support. I have to be strong for the children and am only worried about their future, she said.

Marilyn said that her eldest daughter has completed her studies in India and would soon join her in Dubai.
Jaipur: Passionately defending its action of vandalising the sets of upcoming Indian period drama 'Padmavati' and assaulting its director Sanjay Leela Bhansali, the Rajput Karni Sena on Saturday warned that they will not let the history of their ancestors be tarnished, adding that they would defend their Rajput lineage from ignominy.

In a shocking development, the protestors manhandled the ace director yesterday in broad daylight and alleged that the film has love scenes between Queen Padmini and ruler Alauddin Khilji, played by actors Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh.

Speaking to ANI in Jaipur, founder patron of the fringe group Lokendra Singh Kalvi asserted that if history and traditions are not respected then nothing but doom awaits them.

The Karni Sena claims that Padmini was a proud queen known for taking her own life rather than submit to Alauddin Khilji, the emperor who attacked the Chittorgarh Fort.

"Does Bhansali have the nerve to go to Germany and make a fiction film against Hitler? Even when Jodha Akbar was being made I had raised objections as one cannot insult our blood-spattered history," Kalvi added.

He further alleged that the shooting was being carried out without permission, adding that the Sena would not allow 'obscenities' on the land of Rajputs against its own ancestral icons.

Meanwhile, condemning the attack on Bhansali, Rajasthan Home Minister Gulab Singh Kataria said that flouting the law to express anger is not called for, adding that probe would be initiated in the matter.

"In such case, anger is instinctive but it shouldn't be done outside the purview of law. One cannot express anger by breaking the laws. They could have filed a police complaint instead of taking law in their hands," Kataria told ANI.

Twitter is abuzz with the comments and reactions of various Bollywood celebrities, including Hrithik Roshan, Karan Johar, Sonam Kapoor to support the 'Padmavati' director.

Favouring Bhansali, the 'Kabil' actor took to Twitter and said, "Mr. Bhansali , Sir. I stand with you. This is so infuriating!!!!"

Coming out in defence of the ace filmmaker, Johar tweeted, "Am appalled at what has happened with Sanjay Bhansali..this is the time for all us as an industry to stand by our people and fraternity!!"

"Having been through many instances of turmoil during a film shoot or release.i understand Sanjay's emotion at this point. I stand by him," he added.
A mortal shell was found lying abandoned on Saturday in a village of Kishan Garh near Vasant Kunj, New Delhi. (Photo: ANI/Twitter)

New Delhi: A mortal shell was found lying abandoned on Saturday in a village of Kishan Garh near Vasant Kunj on Saturday, following which the National Security Guard (NSG) has been asked to step in.

The entire area has been cordoned cordoned off and evacuated as a precautionary measure as per procedure.

The NSG has been requested to send a team to carry out the necessary drill to examine, transport or diffuse the object.

Meanwhile, as an interim measure, the shell which seems old and corroded has been secured by a "bomb blanket" sourced from the District Bomb Disposal Squad.

More details to follow.
Chandigarh: The district administration has imposed CrPC Section 144 in parts of Rohtak district as a precautionary measure in view of the call given by a section of Jats for a fresh round of quota agitation from January 29.

The assembly of five or more people in about 500 metres from national and state highways, along with railway stations in the city has been banned, an official said today.

The Haryana government has sought 55 companies of paramilitary forces from the Centre besides deployment of 7,000 Home Guards in the state which saw 30 deaths and widespread vandalism during a similar stir last year.

Rohtak and some of its neighbouring districts, including Sonipat and Jhajjar, had been worst-hit by the violence.

The agitation had also affected Delhi as the protesters cut water supply to the national capital.

The call for fresh stir has been given by some Jat outfits, especially those owing allegiance to the All India Jat Aarakshan Sangharsh Samiti (AIJASS) headed by Yashpal Malik.

The Jat community outfits, while accusing the Manohar Lal Khattar government of not fulfilling their demands for reservation, have threatened to launch the next round of agitation from January 29.

"Although the leaders of various agitating organisations have promised to hold dharnas in a peaceful manner, still the administration is fully geared up to maintain law and order," Haryana's Additional Chief Secretary (Home), Ram Niwas said.

All the Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police have been directed to ensure that highways and railway tracks are not obstructed and no damage is caused to property, officials said.

Meanwhile, a mahapanchayat of some Khaps (caste councils) was held at Rohtak today, in which they reiterated their call to hold the peaceful agitation from January 29.

During the mahapanchayat, Khap leaders maintained that the release of arrested Jat youths from jails, withdrawal of cases registered during last year s agitation and grant of government jobs to the kin of youths killed during last year s stir were their immediate demands.

Om Prakash Nandal, new chief of Nandal Khap, who was the convener of the Mahapanchayat meeting held at Rohtak, assured that the stir will be peaceful.

"Since the reservation matter is in high court, we will wait for it the final outcome," he said.

Another prominent Khap leader Surinder Singh, told reporters in Kurukshetra that the Jat leadership knows it that the issue of Jat reservation was a legal battle and not a political one.

"However, some of the Jat leaders who belong to other states are using coercive methods of threatening to re-launch agitation across the state for vested interests," he said.
Thanjavur: An agriculture worker, R. Bhoominathan (56) of Kannanthankudi Keelaiyur village near Orathanadu, 20-km from here, received a phone call from Delhi on Thursday (Republic Day) evening.

As the person, who called him around 7 pm spoke in Hindi, Bhoominathan asked his friend Rajagopal, a Hindi-knowing ex-serviceman of the village to speak over the phone.

Ilavarasan

The caller identified himself as Commanding Officer of 51 RR battalion of Indian Army and said that Ilavarasan (27), son of Bhoominathan, a solider in the Indian Army was no more. He was killed in an avalanche in Kashmir valley, the caller sadly disclosed.

A shell shocked Rajagopal and Bhoominathan could scarcely believe their ears. However, the commanding officer confirmed the death once again and cut the phone stating that he will call them back for further information.

Even as Bhoominathan was refusing to believe the death of his son, news spread in the village amid a pall of gloom at once descending on the place in Thanjavur district.

I educated my son in the Government higher secondary school here and later at Rajah Serfoji Government Arts College at Thanjavur, with my hard earned money from the work I did as a cooli. We were happy when he joined the Army after his selection at the recruitment at Tiruchy. He had his training in Gujarat before he was posted in Kashmir. We-my wife Amutha, my younger son and my daughter thought that all our problems are over and Ilavarasan would help in managing the family with his salary. But all our hopes have been dashed when he died on Thursday, a wailing Bhoominathan, told Deccan Chronicle at his house (a hut) at the village on Friday. Amutha, mother of Ilavarasan and women of the village, who gathered at the house, were inconsolable.

Bhoominathans daughter is married and his second son has completed ITI and is at home without a job. Ilavarasans house presented an unkempt look with scattered articles and wailing women with the box from the Army in which he kept his things standing as the only testimony. Incidentally, the village Kannanthankudi Keelaiyur accounts for maximum number of servicemen and ex-servicemen in the district.

Our boys love joining the Army and serve the nation. There are nearly 180 service and ex-servicemen in the village. Next to Katpadi (in Vellore district), our village has given the maximum number of soldiers. There was one death in the early 1960s during war. After that no one died and Ilavarasan is the second death in the village while in service in the last 55 years said Sivagurunathan, an ex-serviceman of the village.

He identifies many as ex-servicemen who came to the house to express their condolences. Many youths presently serving the Army and who came to the village, are on leave.

Ilavarasan, an Economics graduate, joined the Army on his own interest, said his father. Rajesh, another youth of the village, who is serving as a soldier in the Army in Punjab, said that some of the youths have gone to countries like Singapore for work.

As ex-servicemen account for more in this village, they have been given the privilege of conducting a Mandagapadi in the village Mariamman temple during festive season. That is a days ritual done with money donated by them, said Sivagurunathan. Flex boards and posters condoling the death of Ilavarasan have sprung up at many places in the village, bringing out the intensity of the peoples grief at losing one of their sons.

We are expecting the body as early as possible. We are in touch with Army officials, the ex-servicemen said. However, officials here said that body was expected by Tuesday.
New Delhi: The Election Commission has given a go ahead to the next episode of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Mann ki Baat' programme to be aired tomorrow with a condition that nothing be said to influence voters in the five poll-bound states.

The government had approached the Commission seeking clearance for the regular radio programme as Model Code of Conduct is in force in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Goa and Manipur which are going for Assembly polls between February 4 and March 8.

The Commission has now cleared the programme saying it has "no objection" to it from the point of view of the model code that is in force.

It has also cleared the pre-broadcast publicity of the programme.

The poll body said the clearance is "subject to the condition that nothing be said therein that may be construed as inducement to voters or as having any impact in the election-bound states."

The government had been approaching the Commission for clearance of the radio programme from the poll panel during assembly elections.

This time, the focus of 'Mann ki Baat' will be the Class X and XII Board examinations. The exam will commence from March 9, a day after the last vote is cast in the Assembly polls.
Chennai: The prevailing drought condition in the state and farmers' suicide episodes, as well, echoed in the Assembly on Friday prompting Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam to assure a relief package once the government receives comprehensive reports from the district collectors.

Speaking on the motion of thanks to the Governor for his address to the Assembly on Friday, DMK legislator Durai Chandrasekharan said though the official figures on farmers' suicide due to the prevailing drought has been estimated to be 17, at least 244 farmers have died till January 26.

Intervening, Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam said his government had already announced Rs 3 lakh each as solatium to the kin of farmers who had committed suicide. Upon receiving the report of collectors, the relief for the farmers families, as well as for drought, will be announced.

DMK leader M. K. Stalin demanded that the government dispatch its ministers immediately to console the bereaved families of ryots.

Denying the allegation, handlooms and textiles minister O. S. Manian said the ministers and AIADMK leaders too had visited the families of 17 farmers who had committed suicide and consoled them. We have also distributed relief and expenses to perform the last rites.

The DMK leader Stalin has visited only ten families. Shall we construe that only 10 farmers had committed suicide? he asked. We will provide the relief to all the affected families on behalf of the DMK, if the government accepts its inability to provide compensation to farmers, Mr Stalin jibed. However, Mr Panneerselvam's reply brought the issue to an end.
New Delhi: The head of All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) forensic department, Sudhir Gupta on Saturday said that death of Sunanda Pushkar, wife of Congress MP Shashi Tharoor was unnatural and caused due to poisoning.

"Sunanda Pushkar's death was unnatural. We clearly said that this is a case of poisoning. This has been clearly stated in the opinion. This opinion has been made and formed on the basis of circumstantial evidence where certain drugs and poison have been recovered by Delhi police itself," Gupta said.

Read: Sunanda case: Police seeks details of deleted chats of Pushkar, Tharoor

Asserting that there is no iota of doubt in Sunanda's death case, he added, "This has also been confirmed by the chemical examination report of FBI America."

The AIIMS medical board had earlier in its reports, said that Sunanda had died of poisoning due to an overdose of the anti-anxiety drug Alprax.

According to a report by national daily Indian Express, the report states, " The circumstantial recovery of empty Alprax tablets (27 tablets) and report of FBI, which shows that presence of Alprax in stomach and its contents, spleen, liver, half of each kidney, blood sample, as well as urine wet clothing, bed cover and bed sheet, confirmed the death due to 'excessive ingestion of tablet alprazolam."

The medical board's report states that the FBI reported the presence of lidocaine, an antiarrhythmic drug of heart which may cause fatality if administered intravenously.

The board has also stated Pushkar was discharged in a perfectly healthy condition on January 14, 2014, from Kerala Institute Medical Sciences, and was never diagnosed as a case of lupus despite thorough investigation in several laboratories.

On an email claiming Pushkar had lupus and was consulting a doctor practising in Dubai, the medical board has stated it was a "desperate effort to mislead the investigation by a doctor who is not even a specialist of lupus and merely a child specialist".
The CIA documented three UFO sightings in Sikkim and Ladakh in March 1968. (Photo: Pixabay/Representational)

Mumbai: Of the thousands of declassified documents published online by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), one contains details about sightings of unidentified flying objects, or UFOs, in India, Nepal and Bhutan.

The CIA documented a total of six UFO sightings over south Ladakh, north east Nepal, north Sikkim and western Bhutan in 1968. Three UFOs were sighted in Ladhak, India.

The CIA report, dated April 11, 1968, gives specific details of the date, local time and area of the UFO sightings in the regions. Two flying saucers were spotted in Ladakh, one on March 4 and another on March 25 and one in Sikkim on the night of February 19, 1968, according to the CIA report.

The UFO in Sikkim was flying from South-east to North-west over Lachung, Lachen, Thangu, Muguthang and Chholamu. A thunder sound was heard in Chholamu after sighting the object.

In Ladakh, one white light and simultaneously two blasting sounds were heard. Also, one reddish light followed by white smoke, was seen at 1 pm on March 4, 1968, above Chang La, Fukche and Koyul.

The one cited over Ladakh on March 4 was following a circular path. Left a trail of smoke behind it. Another flying saucer was spotted on the night of March 25, 1968, and it was rocket-like with a white-yellow-white trail about 20 yards long at a height of 20-25,000 feet.

While two UFOs were sighted in Nepal, one on February 19 and another on March 25, one was spotted over Thimpu in Bhutan on February 21.

One blazing object, was seen over Kaski in Nepal on the night of March 25, 1968. It was flashing intermittently and disintegrated, the report said. A huge metallic disc-shaped object with a six-foot base and four feet in height was found in a crater at Baltichaur, five miles NE of Pokhara, it added.
SLC says police wont question immigration status

SALT LAKE CITY (AP)  Salt Lake City leaders are proclaiming their support for immigrants after President Donald Trumps moves to speed construction of his promised U.S.-Mexico border wall and cut federal grants for immigrant-protecting sanctuary cities.

The mayor and police chief in Utahs capital city said at a press conference Thursday that the department will continue its longstanding policy against questioning people about their immigration status.

Chief Mike Brown says that erodes public trust and makes it harder for police to investigate crime. He says federal officials need to listen to police chiefs and avoid taking action that makes their jobs harder.

Mayor Jackie Biskupski says the city isnt responsible for enforcing federal immigration policy, and Wednesday actions in Washington D.C. have created fear and confusion and could deter people from reporting crimes.

2 lawmakers want to exempt tampons from tax

CARSON CITY (AP)  Two freshman Democratic state lawmakers say they want the Nevada Legislature to get rid of what they call an unfair sales tax on feminine hygiene products.

State Sen. Yvanna Cancel and Assemblywoman Sandra Jauregui said Thursday theyre introducing measures in Carson City to make products such as tampons and sanitary napkins tax-exempt.

Cancela and Jauregui tell the Las Vegas Review-Journal women have no choice about purchasing the items, and they should be considered a tax-free necessity like food or medicine.

Jauregui says the state shouldnt tax women for being women.

Critics say Nevada is one of 37 states that tax menstrual products.

New York, Illinois and Connecticut passed laws last year making feminine hygiene products tax-exempt.

Utah lawmakers voted down a similar measure.

Woman sent to Nevada prison on stolen valor charge

RENO (AP)  A 25-year-old Ohio woman has been sentenced to nearly 20 year in prison in Nevada on fraud charges stemming from an investigation that began when she falsely claimed to be a decorated military veteran.

Washoe County District Attorney Chris Hicks said Friday Kelsie Hoover is the first person prosecuted in the county on a charge of stolen valor since the legislature made it a crime in 2013.

She also was convicted of burglary and identity-theft charges in unrelated incidents.

Authorities started investigating in 2015 when Hoover was volunteering under a false name at a local high school where she claimed to be a decorated and disabled combat veteran.

Hicks says she obtained Nevada Purple Heart license plates with falsified military records claiming she had received the Medal of Honor and the Purple Heart, and later bragged about it.

Supreme Court upholds foreclosure process

CARSON CITY (AP)  The Nevada Supreme Court has upheld the use of an out-of-court foreclosure process that helped investors acquire homeowner association properties at reduced prices during the Great Recession.

Justices ruled unanimously Thursday that the process doesnt violate protections for original mortgage holders under the U.S. and Nevada constitutions  and that due process rights werent violated because purchases dont constitute a state action.

The Las Vegas Review-Journal reports the ruling is significant for thousands in Las Vegas who acquired foreclosed homes at a fraction of their value by paying off liens held by homeowner associations.

But it says the decision will have to be reconciled with a recent ruling by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in a different Nevada case that said the state process violated constitutional protections.
Jaipur: A day after filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali was beaten up on the sets of his upcoming film, Padmavati, in Jaipur, the Rajput Karni Sena refused to apologise for the assault and claimed the film crew fired shots in the air, which provoked the organisations volunteers.

Bhansali was slapped and his hair was pulled by the activists, who alleged that the film distorts the Rajput history. They also vandalised the equipment set on the shooting location. The Karni Sena has been backed by Congress leader Pratap Singh Khachariyawas, who blamed Bhansali.

No one should take law into his hands but Sanjay Leela Bhansali is equally responsible for the incident. He cant distort the history, said Mr Khachariyawas, who is also party spokesperson.

Yesterday, Sanjay Leela Bhansalis crew fired shots in the air. That led to the confrontation, said Lokendra Singh Kalvi, spokesperson of the Rajput Karni Sena, justifying the attack. The spokesperson also refused to apologise and said, We wont tolerate distortion of history

Does Bhansali have the nerve to go to Germany and make a fiction film against Hitler? Even when Jodha Akbar was being made, I raised objections as one cant insult our blood-spattered history, he added. He said his sena has registered a complaint with I&B ministry.
Radhika suffered more than 70 per cent burns and is hospitalised in a critical condition. (Representational image)

Hyderabad: In a shocking incident, a mother set her 10-year-old daughter ablaze in Shadnagar on Friday night. The provocation was that the child, Dubba Radhika, spilled flour on the ground after her mother told her to fetch it from a shop for making chapatis.

Radhika suffered more than 70 per cent burns and is hospitalised in a critical condition. Police registered an attempt-to-murder case on the mother, Swarupa. Radhika is the first child of her parents, Dubba Chennaiah and Swarupa, residents of Chintagudem of Farooq-nagar mandal in Ranga Reddy district.

The couple owns four acres of farm land but worked as daily wage earners. Radhika has a sister and a brother younger to her and is studying in the local government primary school.

On Friday evening, after returning from work, Swarupa asked Radhika to get jowar atta from a shop. Radhika, while carrying the atta to her home, spilled some from the pack.

Girls Mother said to be mentally ill

When the daughter came back home, Swarupa got angry and beat her up. Not satisfied, she dragged the girl into the house, took a bottle of kerosene and poured it on her. She took a burning firewood from a chula, set the girl ablaze and left her on the floor.

Hearing Radhikas screams, neighbours rushed to their house and called an ambulance. She was rushed to the primary health centre for first aid and later shifted to Osmania General Hospital, Shadnagar sub-inspector M. Dasu said.

Doctors said Radhika received over 70 per cent burns and her condition remained critical. Police recorded her statement and registered an attempt-to-murder case against the mother.

Police heard from neighbours that Swarupa had attempted suicide some years ago by consuming pesticide, as the family had serious financial problems. She survived that attempt but went into depression. Often, when there was a tiff in the house, she would threaten to commit suicide. The neighbours said that since recovering from the suicide attempt, she was mentally ill.
Hyderabad: Shabana Sultana, 38, lived as the 31st wife of a Saudi national in the Gulf after her marriage to the small-time businessman 20 years ago.

While she was forced to return to her home here along with her two sons a year ago when she fell seriously ill, her 90-year-old husband did not allow her daughter to come back.

Sultana says her husband Al Sugaihi Ali Abdullahs family members have confined the girl to a room and are not allowing her even to talk to her mother over phone. Ms Sultana approached MBT leader Amjed Ullah Khan for help and he has, on her behalf, lodged a petition with the Ministry of External Affairs. The matter stands there.

Sultana says when she was 13, her family was residing in Talabkatta. Her elder sister was already married to a Saudi trader and staying in Riyadh. After the sisters husband died, her brother-in-law approached her for a re-marriage. She rejected his proposal and assured him that she would get her younger sister, Sultana, to marry him.

Initially, Sultana was reluctant to marry a man as old as Al Abdullah but her sister promised that she would be able to live a rich life and that, after his death, all his property will be hers.

In March 1996, Al Abdullah married her without providing any official documents related to marriage from Saudi Arabia. After staying with her for 20 days, he flew back to Saudi. Ms Sultana stayed with her parents. Since then, there were no phone calls from him. But he visited her in Hyderabad thrice and she gave birth to two daughters Zahoora Ali, Urooj Ali, and a son, Al Sugaihi Abdul Rehman.

Childrens visas have expired, says woman

In 2015, Al Abdullah called told her to get her and the childrens passports and visas done from the Saudi consulate in Mumbai. Ms Sultana along with her three kids landed in Riyadh in May 2015. There, all of them were confined to a small room. There were times when there was neither food nor water at the room.

He would come to me once in three days, lock my children in another room and have intercourse with me and leave. If I refused he would assault me and abuse me. I pleaded him to leave me, but he was adamant, Sultana said.

During her stay in Riyadh, she had visitors who were in the age-group of 25 to 60, identifying themselves as the children of her husband. From them, she came to know that she was his 31st wife. Her younger kids are also at risk as they are on visit visas there, which expired in September 2016. They can be detained by the police.
Representatives of CRDA and NHAI signed MoUs in the presence of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Union minister Nitin Gadkari during the CII Partnership Summit in Visakhapatnam on Saturday. (Photo: DC)

Visakhapatnam: Accusing the Opposition of trying to disrupt the CII Partnership Summit, AP Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday said he aimed to bring investments worth Rs1 lakh-crore to the state by 2029, and also to host a Davos-type international meeting here.

Addressing the media after the valedictory of the two-day event, Mr Naidu said he was successful in thwarting the disruptive attempts of the Opposition.

There was jubilant mood all around and the Partnership Summit got an incredible response. Over 2,000 delegates from 50 countries participated. This is only a beginning. My aim is to conduct Davos-type meeting in AP. Davos is a power platform for knowledge sharing and networking. I want to build such an ecosystem in the state, he said.

The CM added that during the summit, as many as 665 MoUs were signed, which would bring in around Rs10.54 lakh crore investments into the state and provide around 22.54 lakh jobs.

My aim is to attract at least Rs1 lakh crore investments into the state, which will make AP a $trillion economy. Such investment will also provide around 1.5 crore jobs. We can also achieve CAGR (combined annual growth rate) of 12 to 13 per cent. AP would become the hub of innovation, he said.

Mr Naidu said an expressway would be laid from Amaravati to Anantapur, connecting three Rayalaseema districts through the MoUs signed with the NHAI.

He said Saudi Arabias Aramco and Abu Dhabi were ready to consider AP to set up their downstream industries, oil refineries and petro chemical complexes.
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: CPM has demanded a detailed probe into the allegations levelled by a RSS worker regarding illegal confinement and torture. The CPM leaders alleged that Attingal Mandalam Sharirik Shikshan Pramukh and resident of Kallyam S. Vishnu was subjected to torture by RSS workers. In a detailed complaint given to the chief minister and DGP, he accused the RSS workers of holding him captive for more than 38 days at different places.

On the basis of a complaint filed by him before chief minister and DGP, the police has registered case against 45 RSS workers. The CPM alleged that Vishnu had been forced to write a suicide note that he was taking the extreme step following threat issued by Kannur CPM district secretary P. Jayarajan. Vishnu is now undergoing treatment at the general hospital. BJP state president Kummanam Rajashekharan had the other day accused the chief minister of shielding murder accused to engineer violence against his party workers.
A CCTV grab shows the victims approaching the accident spot, hitting the divider, falling under the truck, and a body lying on the road behind the truck.

Hyderabad: Two students were killed and their friend was injured when their bike hit a road divider and they fell under a truck on the other side of the road at Bowenpally on Saturday afternoon.

The victims were triple riding and speeding on a Yamaha FZ bike. Eyewitnesses said the rider could not control the bike due to its speed, and as soon as the bike hit the road divider, the three were flung into the air and fell on the other lane. None of them were wearing helmets.

Bowenpally police officials, who checked CCTV footage, said the youths were driving very rashly.

Police said the dead are R. Anirudh, 19, son of Ramakanth, an Interm-ediate second year student, and his friend Vishwa Chary, 20, son of Krishna, and a first year degree student. The injured, Akhil, who was driving, was rushed to hospital.

The incident occurred near Tadbund after 12 noon.

The three were going towards Secunderabad. At the curve near the Tadbund graveyard the driver failed to control the bike due to high speed. The bike rammed the road divider and the three were flung into the air and landed on the other lane. Meanwhile, a truck coming from Secunderabad ran over two of them. The two were crushed under the back tyres of the truck. The injured victim was lucky as only his leg was fractured, said an official from Bowenpally police station.

People who saw the accident informed the police and emergency services. But, the two died before any medical help

They suffered serious injuries and died on the spot, said the officer.

Anirudh was a student of Sri Narayana Intermediate College in Malkajgiri and Vishwa a student of Sai Sudhir Degree College. They were residents of Buddhanagar in Malkajgiri. Relatives said the three had gone out on a bike to go to their colleges in Secunderabad. In the afternoon they went to Fatehnagar to attend a family function and were returning to their colleges when the mishap happened.

The two bodies were shifted for autopsy. Police booked a case.

Faulty road blamed

A preliminary probe into the Bowenpally mishap revealed that faulty road design was one of the reasons for the accident. The road near Tadbund graveyard has a steep curve, where drivers cannot control vehicles easily. Cops say heavy vehicles often hit the median due to this faulty design.

It will be difficult for a driver to control his vehicle if it is moving at more than 45 km/hr in this area. At the steep curve three-wheelers might get toppled, and heavy vehicles and two-wheelers might hit the divider, said a senior police official from north zone.

Road safety experts say that the major reasons for accidents in the city were faulty road design, improper junctions and other infrastructure defects. These defects were overlooked in the past and only motorists were blamed for accidents. The traffic police had been submitting reports to the GHMC pointing out problems like narrow roads, steep curves, slopes of roads, blind corners, improper illumination and traffic junctions (without signals), and the absence of sign boards indicating speed limits since 2014. But the GHMC has not yet taken initiatives to set right these problems.
New Delhi: With the effects of the Centres move to demonetise old Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 notes dying down, Opposition parties are now focusing on the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC) to corner the government in the upcoming Budget Session of Parliament.

The campaign against the UCC is also likely to help the concept of a secular front against the Narendra Modi-led government, especially with Assembly elections coming up in five states, including the politically crucial Uttar Pradesh. The first salvo has been fired by JD(U) chief and Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar, who has written to the law commission twice, including on Wednesday, cautioning against the attempt to impose to a UCC without the concurrence of various religious groups, especially minorities.

Nitish said in the letter that "it was not a political instrumentality to be hurriedly imposed". The letter goes on to say that the imposition of the UCC must be based on a broad consensus in its favour and not be imposed by a fiat.

Sources in the JD(U) said that they have approached other "like-minded" parties, like the Trinamool Congress and the Left.
Bengaluru: After receiving a severe dressing down from party national president, Amit Shah, BJP state president B.S. Yeddyurappa and opposition leader in the council, K.S. Eshwarappa have agreed to a truce.

As per the agreement, the party decided to hold functions in the name of legendary warrior, Sangolli Rayanna under the party banner but not under any apolitical outfit (read Sangolli Rayanna Brigade).

Read: Mend your ways in our partys interest: Amit Shah to BS Yeddyurappa, KS Eshwarappa

The party's OBC morcha will organise such programmes and Yeddyurappa and Eshwarappa will participate in these functions, announced BJP general secretary, Muralidhar Rao.

Yeddyurappa and Eshwarappa will tour all districts and get involved in organisational activities. Shah reportedly told the two leaders, "If you can't act as per party tradition, both of you are free to leave the BJP." This threat worked forcing them to broker peace.

Shah instructed both the leaders to work together, and asked Mr Eshwarappa to conduct SRB activities as part of party platform rather an apolitical event in order to enhance the support base of the party at grass roots level.

Earlier on Friday day, Shah took inputs from Union ministers from Karnataka on ground realities. In the meeting, two Union ministers reportedly told Mr Shah that due to tussle between Mr Yeddyurappa and Mr. Eshwarappa, party workers are in confused status and party is struggling to take forward its fight against the ruling Congress party. These two ministers did not take sides during their discussion with the party president.
New Delhi: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has sent a legal notice to the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati for including gangster-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari and his brother in her party.

BJP leader Ashok Singh, who is the witness to the murder of Manna Singh, a local contractor allegedly killed by Ansari's gang in 2009, has sent the notice to the BSP chief.

Singh will also file a complaint against Mayawati with the Election Commission on January 30.

Mayawati, had on January 26 announced that four-time MLA Ansari, will contest the Uttar Pradesh elections from the Mau assembly constituency on BSP ticket while asserting that the latter is being taken back in the party as the allegations against him have not been proved yet.

The gangster-turned-politician's son Abbas and brother Sibgatulla have also joined the party and they will be contesting the elections from Ghosi and Mohammadabad assembly constituencies respectively.

The MLA had earlier won a seat from Mau in 1996 on a BSP ticket.

Ansari, who is currently lodged in Lucknow jail, was the prime accused in the Krishnanand Rai murder case, and has pleaded not guilty.

In 2010, Ansari was also booked for the murder of Ram Singh Maurya, who was a witness to the murder of Manna Singh.
BJP President Amit Shah with UP BJP chief Keshav Prasad Maurya releasing party manifesto for the upcoming Uttar Pradesh assembly elections in Lucknow. (Photo: PTI)

Lucknow: BJP's manifesto released here today amid much fan fare drew sharp criticism from its political opponents with the BSP terming it as another attempt to hoodwink Uttar Pradesh voters and Congress dubbing it as a "bundle of lies".

The Ruling Samajwadi Party too termed the manifesto as a bundle of lies and said after getting majority on false promises, the saffron party showed total insensitivity and behaved irresponsibly in almost three years of its government at the Centre.

Trashing the manifesto as another attempt to hoodwink the people of Uttar Pradesh, BSP chief Mayawati said the party which failed to fulfil its earlier promises has no moral right to bring a document of pledge.

"After failing to fulfil the 'achche din' promise made during the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, BJP has no moral right to bring out this manifesto...it is another attempt to hoodwink people of the state," she told mediapersons after release of the document by BJP chief Amit Shah.

"BJP and its Prime Ministerial candidate Narendra Modi had made a slew of promises and allurements to the people of the country and Uttar Pradesh as well like bringing achche din, but now they are not even on the agenda of the Centre...not even one-fourth of these promises have been fulfilled," she claimed.

The promises made in the manifesto today are hollow, she added.

Congress also hit out at BJP, terming the manifesto as a bundle of lies and alleged that it was out to rake up the Ram temple issue once again to hide its shortcomings. "People are now well aware that BJP does not desist from betraying even Lord Ram," UP PCC chief Raj Babbar said in a statement.

The manifesto has no mention of how many labourers and workers lost jobs and suffered due to the note ban, he said, adding the BJP chief is promising setting up of task force to deal with mining mafia but maximum illegal mining takes place in BJP-ruled states like Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and Madhya Pradesh.

"Have these states got task force for the purpose have the governments in these states launched any campaign against the mining mafia," he asked.

The BJP manifesto is a "document of lies" based on false promises aimed at misleading the people, Babbar said.

Mayawati apprehended that on coming to power in UP, BJP will be so emboldened that it will end reservation benefits of the scheduled and backward castes.

She said she will start her poll campaign from February 1 and will fulfil the promises made during campaigning once her party comes to power in the state.

Samajwadi Party spokesman Rajendra Chaudhary also termed the manifesto as a bundle of lies and said after getting majority on the false promises, the saffron party showed total insensitivity and behaved irresponsibly in almost three years of its government.

Once again by raising the Ram temple issue it has tried to spoil communal amity and talking about triple talaq which is under consideration of the apex court is a betrayal with the minorities, Chaudhary said.

BJP neither has any agenda nor thinking for Uttar Pradesh, he added.
Artsakh President issues congratulatory address on Army Day

On January 28, President of the Artsakh Republic Bako Sahakyan sent a congratulatory address to President Serzh Sargsyan of the Republic of Armenia. The address runs as follows: "Honorable Mr. President, On behalf of the people and authorities of the Artsakh Republic and myself personally I cordially congratulate You on the 25th anniversary of the formation of the heroic Armenian army, a holiday that is dear and memorable to all of us. The Armenian army has passed a glorious way and is the pride of all the Armenians, the main guarantee of our people's security, one of the significant factors of maintaining peace and stability in the region. The Armenian soldier with his unwavering spirit and invincible might brilliantly performs the Motherland defender's. Respectful Mr. Sargsyan, Having been standing at the origins of the Army's formation, You have done everything possible for its development and strengthening. In Artsakh we know and appreciate Your contribution and patriotic efforts. In connection with this cherished holiday I once again congratulate You, the whole personnel of the Republic of Armenia's Armed Forces and our entire people, wishing peace, great successes and new victories on the way of solving national issues and strengthening the Armenian statehood".
Gorakhpur: The Bharatiya Janata Party had chosen its Gorakhpur MP Yogi Adityanath, known for controversial statements, to campaign for the first two phases of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly election. However, on Friday, the Hindu Yuva Vahini (HYV), helmed by Yogi Adityanath, also released a separate list of six candidates from Kushinagar and Maharajganj districts, The Indian Express reported. HYV is set to contest polls on 64 seats.

The state President of HYV, Sunil Singh said, "BJP insulted Yogi Adityanath. Hindu Yuva Vahini will field candidates on all the seats."

When asked if Adityanath is aware of the decision, Singh said, "Yogi Adityanath Ji is denying that Hindu Yuva Vahini will contest UP polls because he is under the influence of BJP's black magic."

"The people of eastern UP wanted Adityanath ji to be declared as the chief ministerial face, but the BJP ignored him. BJP did not even include him in their election management committee, Sunil Singh was quoted as saying.

Last week, HYV announced their candidates on Khadda, Kushinagar and Padrauna seats from Kushinagar district and Paniyara, Pharendra and Siswa seats in Maharajganj. BJP has already declared candidates on all six seats.

Furthermore, of the list of 10 candidates that were provided by HYV, only two were given BJP ticket.

To the contrary, Yogi Adityanath said, "Hindu Yuva Vahini is a non-political organisation with nationalist mission and its members support BJP."

Meanwhile, the BJP urged the voters to "ignore personal ambitions" and stated that HYV candidates will not dampen the chances of BJP.
Kolkata: Despite his opposition to demonetisation, former Union finance minister and senior Congress leader P Chidambaram today said there was no evidence that majority of the Jan Dhan accounts were used for money laundering post-currency withdrawal.

"Evidences do not point out that there was wholesale use of Jan Dhan accounts for money laundering purposes. Nearly 25 per cent of the Jan Dhan accounts were having zero balances and in the remaining, the average balance was Rs 27,000," he said at the Kolkata Literary Meet here.

Only a small number of such accounts could have been used for money laundering, he said.

"My real quarrel with demonetisation is that a decision of this magnitude, which has enormous consequences, cannot be taken by a single person.

"The three most important officials of the Finance Ministry--the finance secretary, banking secretary and the chief economic adviser, had not spoken a word in the last 70 days. What does that prove? Either they were not consulted, or if consulted, they disagreed," Chidambaram said.

The Congress leader alleged that even former RBI governor Raghuram Rajan had sent a five-page note to Prime Minister Narendra Modi opposing demonetisation, following which "he was shown the door unceremoniously."

"It seemed that the PM was in a hurry to do demonetisation," he said.

Chidambaram said that as per his estimates, the country's GDP growth would take a hit of at least one per cent due to the policy.

He said 80 per cent of the units in the Ministry of Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector have been closed due to demonetisation, and it would take months, if not years, for them to recover.

The former Union minister also dispelled the notion that cash crunch was easing now. "The cash crunch is not easing. It may ease in the metropolitan cities, but in distant areas, 40 per cent of the ATMs do not have cash," he alleged.

Chidambaram also hit out at the Election Commission for setting an "unrealistic expenditure target" for candidates contesting the polls. "For every candidate, the limit is Rs 35 lakhs, which is unrealistic and foolish as contesting an election has become a very costly affair," he said.

He said that because of this, the election campaigning mode had shifted from "overground to underground", and the EC was responsible for it.

The senior Congress leader, however, supported state funding for polls. "I fully support the idea of state funding for polls. Even business houses should have trusts set up to fund elections," he said.
Jalalabad: Rahul Gandhi today stepped up his attack against the ruling Badals, calling Deputy CM Sukhbir Singh Badal a "symbol of corruption" and asking Prime Minister Narendra Modi to clear the air on why he was seeking votes for the "corrupt" if he was fighting against the menace.

Rahul, who yesterday began his election tour to poll-bound Punjab, today addressed a poll rally in the pocket borough of Sukhbir Badal here, from where the SAD president is seeking re-election.

The Nehru-Gandhi scion attacked the Akalis for allegedly plundering Punjab and appealed people to vote for the Congress in the February 4 polls "to transform Punjab".

Attacking Sukhbir Badal and Modi, Rahul said, "On one hand there is the Akali Dal and on the other hand there is Narendra Modi. Mr Modi comes here (to Punjab) and says he is against corruption and is fighting against corruption."

"Sab say zyada brashtachar Hindustan main ek pradesh main hota hain. Aur us brashtchar ka koyee chin hain, koyee nishan hain, toh uska naam Sukhbir Badal hain. (In India, maximum corruption takes place in one state. And if there is any symbol of this corruption, it is Sukhbir Singh Badal)," Rahul said launching a sharp attack on Sukhbir, who is five-time CM Prakash Singh Badal's son.

Attacking Modi in the same breath, Rahul said, "Modi comes here (to Punjab), delivers speech and says he is against corruption and has waged a war against it. Modi tells people here is Sukhbir Badal, you support him, vote for him and re-elect him."

"On one hand, Modi says he is fighting corruption and on the other hand he is trying to help India's most corrupt person. So, Mr Modi, tell us clearly if you are fighting against corruption, then why are you standing by Sukhbir Badal. Why are you helping him. Entire Punjab knows Sukhbir Badal is a symbol of corruption, but you say no no he is not a symbol of corruption. Now, whether people are right or whether you (Modi) are right, we will come to know in polls," he said.

Rahul said the ruling Badals had "plundered" the State for their own interests. "They have ruined the State by controlling everything here. The youth is unemployed while the industry is in shambles," he charged.

He promised that if Congress forms the government in Punjab, then the regime led by Amarinder Singh, will bring a tough law to tackle the drug problem.

Rahul said Congress delivers what it promises to the people unlike other parties who allegedly betray people after coming to power.

Attacking Arvind Kejriwal and AAP, Rahul said the Delhi CM had promised to voters that he will transform Delhi if his party comes to power there, but "now various sections were up against them for befooling the people".

"Ask autorickshaw wallahs, slum dwellers, safai karamcharis, poor, they will tell you the reality," he said hitting out at AAP.

Rahul also said that Kejriwal knows fully well that his game is over in Delhi and he is facing public wrath there, which is why now he wants to become "Punjab's CM".

He, however, said that people of Punjab will never chose an "outsider".

Rahul also said that Congress has always stood for and will always stand for the welfare of the poor, downtrodden, Dalits, small farmers, labourers and other weaker sections and appealed to the public to give the party a chance to serve them in Punjab.

He also talked about the problems faced by the common people in the wake of demonetisation.

Notably, Jalalabad Assembly constituency is witnessing a high-profile contest this time, with two MP of rival parties throwing their hat in the ring to take on Sukhbir Badal.

While Congress has fielded its Ludhiana MP Ravneet Singh Bittu to take on Sukhbir Badal, AAP has fielded its Sangrur MP Bhagwant Mann from the seat.

Rahul yesterday began his Punjab tour by addressing a rally at Majitha, from where Cabinet Minister and Punjab Deputy CM Sukhbir Badal's brother-in-law, Bikram Singh Majithia is seeking re-election for third term.

Gandhi reiterated his party will strive to combat drug menace in the state enacting strict law and assured of generating employment opportunities once the Amarinder Singh-led government is formed there.

Directing most of his attacks at Badals, Gandhi claimed the family wants "share" in every investment or industry that comes Punjab's way, which he suggested, is the reason why projects go out of the state, resulting in poor employment, further causing the youth there to move out in search of opportunities.
The various state and district units of the Congress have been organising protest marches and rallies against demonetisation after party vice-president Rahul Gandhi exhorted the rank and file to take up this issue on a war footing at the Jan Vedna Sammelan in the capital earlier this month. However, the campaign appears to be petering out days after it was launched. The recent protest rally held in Bhopal is a case in point. To begin with, the march was poorly attended. Second, senior Congress leaders from Madhya Pradesh like Digvijay Singh, Kamal Nath and Jyotiraditya Scindia failed to show up. What was ostensibly a protest against the Narendra Modi government became an occasion for the Congress to display its much-vaunted factionalism. Conversation at the programme was centered around the missing trio with the usually-discreet former Congress minister Suresh Pachouri even taking a public dig at his colleagues. While Mr Singh was said to be busy with the Assembly polls in Goa, nobody knew why the other two leaders failed to turn up.

When veteran Congress leader Narayan Dutt Tiwari was recently welcomed into the Bharatiya Janata Party by its president Amit Shah, it was widely speculated that the ageing leader had switched sides essentially to secure a ticket for his son Rohit Shekhar in the coming Uttarakhand Assembly polls. There was also a strong buzz that the BJP was willing to accommodate Mr Shekhar, despite the fact that he is a political novice, because the saffron unit felt it was worth the price for having acquired a respected brahmin face. As it happens, Mr Shekhars name does not figure in the BJPs list of candidates. A disappointed Shekhar is now planning to approach Prime Minister Modi, failing which he would meet Uttar Pradesh chief minister Akhilesh Yadav for a Samajwadi Party ticket. While the partys decision to deny a ticket to outsider Shekhar has been well-received by the BJP workers, they are also wondering if it was necessary to import an ailing Mr Tiwari while the partys in-house brahmin  Sanjay Joshi  continues to be ignored.

Former BJP national general secretary Mr Murli Manohar Joshi had a bitter falling out with Mr Modi over two years ago and remains in the doghouse even though he has attempted to make peace with the Prime Minister by openly supporting his decision on demonetisation. BJP MP Varun Gandhi is not known to hold back his punches but he appears to have been effectively silenced ever since his name figured in a case of a honey trap by known defence dealer Abhishek Verma and was also accused of leaking defence secrets. Normally, the voluble Mr Gandhi would have been up in arms at not being included in the BJPs list of campaigners in next months UP Assembly polls. Not just that, Mr Gandhi was not named as a candidate in Uttar Pradesh even though he was keen on contesting the coming Assembly poll since he fancies his chances as the future chief minister. He had made his ambition clear at the meeting of BJPs national executive last June when Allahabad was plastered with hoardings and posters declaring Mr Gandhi as the partys future face. But BJPs move to cut him to size has failed to elicit any reaction from Mr Gandhi. Maybe, the young MP is biding his time.

Union minister of micro, small and medium enterprises Kalraj Mishra has reason to be unhappy. Not only is he being denied a major role in Assembly polls in his home state Uttar Pradesh, he has limited functional autonomy in his ministry. For instance, Mr Mishra has little say over the working of the Khadi and Village Industries Commission even though it is under his ministry. This is primarily because KVIC chairman V.K. Saxena is known to be close to PM, and has a free hand in running the outfit. It is well-known that it was the sycophantic Saxena who gave permission for the use of Modis photographs in the commissions 2017 calendar and diary. According to the political grapevine, Mr Saxena is so powerful that when Mr Mishra asked him to look into a representation by some KVIC employees who had been transferred, the KVIC chairman brought this to the notice of the PMO. Mr Mishra was apparently told to back off and asked not to interfere in the working of the KVIC.
Meghalaya governor V. Shanmuganathan has put in his papers as the governor of Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh. A mere resignation may not suffice as the charges of misusing the Raj Bhavan and converting it into a ladies club, besides facing sexual harassment charges by a woman who appeared for a Raj Bhavan interview, constitute serious misconduct. There is a clear case to pursue an investigation into the affairs of state. But, given the record, the possibility is more of the matter being buried, as was the case with N.D. Tiwari, who was caught in compromising poses in the Raj Bhavan in Hyderabad when he was governor of Andhra Pradesh. While cases of sexual indulgences of those who compromise with the dignity of office they held seem to be laid to rest with their resignation, the greater threat to the system is the fall in the stature of those being appointed to hold high posts like governor.

There have been corrupt governors who have misused their sinecure and politically active governors who have meddled in the administration of states. It is the emerging pattern that is a cause of major worry, with the north-eastern states providing too many poor examples in the recent past. In fact, this NDA governments first appointee to a Raj Bhavan, J.P. Rajkhowa, was dismissed by the President after strictures from the top court over his complicity in dismissal of an elected government. In a bizarre coincidence, he too was governor of Arunachal Pradesh. All these raise the question, do we need governors?
Much hue and cry is being raised over the ban of Jallikattu by the Supreme Court, which was rightfully needed. This is nothing but a war between culture and concern or sentiments v/s sanity. To some, the dispute over the SC ban on Jallikattu may seem outrageous, but to others it is delightfully ironic. We have been always taught since inception that the law that governs India is always reasonable not only towards the people but also towards animals, and the said test of reasonableness is decided by the apex court of this country.

Therefore, right from the efforts made by Mrs Menaka Gandhi towards animal life till the enactment of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, this country has attempted to strike a balance between the environment, animals (wildlife) and civil society. However, the recent amendment to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act has not closed the chapter; rather, it has opened many floodgates. Now there are calls from various states demanding legalisation of elephant polo in Rajasthan, Kambala (buffalo racing) in Karnataka, bullock cart racing and cock fights in Maharashtra and bulbul fighting, which is seen in Assam, among others.

Also Read: Desi bullfight leaves politicos high and dry

It is truly sad that Supreme Court is required to intervene in these matters to make people realise religions impact on the environment and animals. The judiciary is one of the most important pillars of democracy. The courts are final interpreters of the Constitution and law. However, there seems to be a trend by governments to defy SC orders, which can ultimately weaken democracy in this country.

The Maharashtra government has been finding ways to defy the SC over the dance bars ban issue in the state. The Karnataka government and lawmakers continue to ignore the apex courts directives on the Kaveri water issue. And now, by bringing in an ordinance to legalise Jallikattu, the Tamil Nadu government seems to be walking the same path. Ironically, when the police cracked down on protesters at Marina beach, the supporters of Jallikattu saw it as a human rights violations and an atrocity by the Tamil Nadu police against those protesting the Supreme Court ban. What people dont understand that on the one hand they are taking the aid of human rights, which is a compassionate legislature, whereas on the other hand they want to continue cruelty against animals, disregarding all forms of compassion and sensitivity.

Jallikattu has been a cultural tradition in Tamil Nadu for around two thousand years. The bull-taming event is part of Pongal celebrations on Mattu Pongal day, which is the third day of the four-day festival, and whoever tames the bull is awarded with gold and silver coins tied to the bulls horns. Article 51(A)(g) of the Constitution of India states that it shall be the fundamental duty of every citizen to protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes and rivers, and show compassion towards all living creatures.

Therefore, it has to be our sincere endeavour to safeguard not only ourselves but also the environment, wildlife and living creatures. Today we are conveniently turning a blind eye towards the SCs Herculean efforts to give humane treatment to animals, which are often subjected to cruelty and brutality like forcing chilly powder in their eyes, forcing them to have alcohol, starving them for days and keeping them in inhuman conditions all for the sake of culture and tradition. It is the truth, which is universally acknowledged, that no religion preaches ignorance and blind faith. No chain is stronger than its weakest link. Is our religion so weak and ignorant that we cannot see the brutality and cruelty caused by us to animals? What is the use of education if it cannot trigger kindness towards animals?

As per the pro-Jallikattu lobby, a person disbelieving the practice of Jallikattu is considered to be an atheist but to others they are the loyal opposition. Its always said that people are known by the views they keep. Are we providing a bright, fearless, unbiased and clean future for the generations to come by overriding the Supreme Courts order by compelling governments to amend laws as per their own convenience?

By Advocate Madhav Thorat, Amicus Curiae and Senior lawyer of Bombay high court
In many a postcolonial country, leaders have adopted institutions inherited from the British while also denuding them of their soul and spirit  among them, inquiries into cases of gross neglect, malfeasance, corruption, etc. Its unthinkable for any British government to suppress their reports, but India presents several such instances, the most notorious of which is the suppression of the Henderson-Brooks Report on military reverses in the war with China in 1962. Submitted in 1963, it remains unpublished to this day. The Central Information Commission  constituted by the Right to Information Act, 2005, and headed by one more royalist than the king, Wajahat Habibullah  upheld its suppression. Even reports set up under a statute have suffered the same fate. In 1986, the Rajiv Gandhi regime promulgated an ordinance to amend the Commissions of Inquiry Act, 1952 to empower it to suppress inquiry commissions reports.

The urgency behind this move was to prevent the publication of a report by SC Justice C.K. Thakkar on Indira Gandhis assassination. It was re-enacted as an act of Parliament. Fortunately, the V.P. Singh government that succeeded his regime secured its repeal. Another ploy used by past governments is delaying the publication of a report and even suppressing the dissenting note. This defeats the very purpose of inquiries. Indias Commission of Inquiry Act, 1952, is modelled on a British statute, the Tribunals of Inquiry (Evidence) Act, 1921. In 2005, it was replaced by the Inquiries Act. The 1921 act had, however, stood the test of time and fully justified its enactment. The old institution of the select parliamentary committee had exposed its main flaw in the Marconi scandal, which involved leading figures like Lloyd George and Rufus Isaacs. The committee split along party lines. The Liberals and the Conservatives submitted conflicting reports. The 1921 act enabled judicial inquiries to be instituted. Their reports were invariably laid before Parliament for the people to read.

It is imperative that inquiry reports be published to restore the nation-wide crisis of confidence among the people, who have an undeniable right to know. In the last 40 years, Indias SC has ruled in a series of cases that the right to know is an inseparable part of the fundamental right to freedom of speech and expression. A citizen cannot form an opinion, still less express it, unless he is provided access to information. Article 19(2) of the UNs International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which most states (including India) are parties, clearly states, Everyone shall have the right to freedom of expression, this right shall include freedom to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds, regardless of frontiers, either orally, in writing or in print, in the form of arts or through any other media of his choice. Indias ban on telecasts from any foreign country violates Article 19(2) of the covenant.

Section 74 of the Indian Evidence Act, 1872, enacted during British rule, provides that every public officer having the custody of a public document, which any person has a right to inspect shall give the person on demand a copy of it on payment of the legal fees and provides a list of such documents. Now no longer subjects of an alien power, citizens have a right to ask the courts to construe a statute, nearly a century half old, in light of the situation today. Their right to inspect should be enforced by the high courts or SC if a petition seeks the disclosure of a suppressed commission inquiry report. This stands apart from their rights under the Right to Information Act, 2005. The citizens elected representatives also enjoy such a right. To deny them access to an inquiry report is an insult to Parliament as well.

By arrangement with Dawn
The government has given a three-month extension to economic affairs secretary Shaktikanta Das, who will now retire in May this year. Mr Das has been the public face of the government during demonetisation. He was to retire at the end of February and the extension will allow the 1980-batch Tamil Nadu cadre IAS officer to oversee the entire Budget process that lasts until early April. This is a routine Budget perk to officers on the cusp, at Budget time. The government has given a more substantial one-year extension to foreign secretary S. Jaishankar, who was to retire on January 28.

The extension to Mr Jaishankar will have a ripple effect in the ministry of external affairs. Many senior diplomats, including Indias ambassador to Italy Anil Wadhwa (1979-batch) and secretary (west) Sujata Mehta (1980-batch) will now retire without getting a shot at the top position. Though a little bird tells us, they know this pretty much. According to sources, Indias ambassador to China, Vijay Gokhale, seen as one of the main contenders to replace Mr Jaishankar, is due to retire in the end of January 2019. And with Mr Jaishankar getting a one-year term, it leaves Mr Gokhale in the race for the top diplomatic position in the MEA.

Babus have their way in Mumbai

Some months ago this column had reported that the Bombay Gymkhanas managing committee was under tremendous pressure from babus who wanted membership of the prestigious 140-year-old club, against the wishes of majority of the members. But it seems the babus have won. As Dilli ka Babu had expected, need we add? The club has agreed to give permanent membership to senior bureaucrats in Mumbai. Sources say that the management may have caved in following a series of actions and threats by various government departments, the latest being denial of a liquor licence for the clubs New Years Eve party.

The club has been battling a controversial proposal to allow service members, or bureaucrats, to use the clubs facilities even after they retire from their public posts. Some senior officials have allegedly been pushing for this and using their offices to hinder the clubs functioning. The club has been afflicted with delays in repair permissions and an overhanging threat that their lease  the land belongs to the state government  will not be renewed. Recently, its parking facilities were taken away. It seems to have worked.
Apple joining the Partnership indicates that the company is becoming less secretive. In December last year, Apple also published its first paper on artificial intelligence.

Technology giant Apple has joined the Partnership on AI, a nonprofit group researching the uses of artificial intelligence. The Partneships members are big names of the tech heavyweights that include Facebook, Google, Amazon and Microsoft.

"Apple has joined the Partnership on AI as a founding member," the group said in a post. "The company has been involved and collaborating with the Partnership since before it was first announced and is thrilled to formalize its membership."

The Partnerships aim is "to study and formulate best practices on AI technologies, to advance the public's understanding of AI, and to serve as an open platform for discussion and engagement about AI and its influences on people and society."

Apple joining the Partnership indicates that the company is becoming less secretive. In December last year, Apple also published its first paper on artificial intelligence.

Bloomberg news reported late Wednesday that Apple would likely join the Partnership.

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America is a nation of immigrants and should be proud of it, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg said today as he criticised President Donald Trump's decision to severely limit immigrants and refugees from certain Muslim-majority countries.

"Like many of you, Im concerned about the impact of the recent executive orders signed by President Trump," Zuckerberg wrote on his Facebook page.

"We need to keep this country safe, but we should do that by focusing on people who actually pose a threat ... We should also keep our doors open to refugees and those who need help. Thats who we are."

"We should also keep our doors open to refugees and those who need help. That's who we are. Had we turned away refugees a few decades ago, Priscilla's family wouldn't be here today," he wrote of his wife, Priscilla Chan, whose family were refugees from China and Vietnam.

"These issues are personal for me even beyond my family. A few years ago, I taught a class at a local middle school where some of my best students were undocumented. They are our future too. We are a nation of immigrants, and we all benefit when the best and brightest from around the world can live, work and contribute here. I hope we find the courage and compassion to bring people together and make this world a better place for everyone," he said.

Trump signed an executive order Friday that puts a moratorium on allowing refugees from a list of predominantly Muslim countries to enter the United States.

Zuckerberg, who has long championed immigration, wrote that his great grandparents came from Germany Austria and Poland.

While keeping America safe is important, he said that the way to do it is to focus on those who actually pose a threat.

"Expanding the focus of law enforcement beyond people who are real threats would make all Americans less safe by diverting resources, while millions of undocumented folks who don't pose a threat will live in fear of deportation," he said.

Zuckerberg also prodded Trump to stand by earlier statements regarding Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (Daca) and H1-B visas, which are of particular concern to tech companies that use the visas to hire talent from overseas.

Zuckerbergs statement, though restrained, is notable at a time when the rest of Silicon Valley appears to be rushing to fall in line with the Trump administration.

Tech leaders had overwhelmingly opposed Trump's candidacy during the campaign. But following Trump's surprise election, tech leaders quickly changed their tune.

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Mijatovic responds to Armenian Ombudsman over Lapshins case

In an official letter addressed to Armenian Human Rights Defender (Ombudsman) Arman Tatoyan, the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Dunja Mijatovic, presented her position on Lapshins case. Mijatovic said in part that she has been following the case of the arrest of Russian blog writer and journalist Alexander Lapshin since his arrest in Minsk on December 15, 2016. The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media said she is fully informed that Lapshin will face severe punishment in Azerbaijan in case of being extradited by Belarusian authorities. According to Dunja Mijatovic, she is fully informed that Lapshin will face severe punishment in Azerbaijan in case of being extradited by Belarusian authorities. Hence, she has applied to the Permanent Mission of Belarus to the OSCE several times and sent a letter to the Foreign Minister of Belarus expressing her concerns over the fact that in case of extradition, Lapshin will face unfair treatment as revenge for his journalistic activities and opinions, including key human rights issues related to the Karabakh conflict. Dunja Mijatovic assured the Armenian Ombudsman that she has called on the authorities of Belarus to pay special attention to that case so that Lapshins legitimate journalistic activities are not limited. She also said she would keep a watchful eye on the developments of this case.
Cairo: An Iraqi family was barred from flying from Cairo to New York today after US President Donald Trump signed an order restricting arrivals from seven Muslim countries, airport officials said.

The husband, wife and two children, who had American visas and reserved seats on an EgyptAir flight, were informed that they could not board because of the new regulation, the officials said.

Trump yesterday signed a sweeping executive order to suspend refugee arrivals and impose tough controls on travellers from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

EgyptAir representatives did not immediately respond to phone calls, and the airline's website did not provide updated travel advice for the United States.
Muslim women shout slogans during a rally against President Donald Trump's order cracking down on immigrants living in the US at Washington Square Park in New York. (Photo: AP)

Washington: Four days after President Donald Trump was inaugurated, mental health counsellors hosted a webinar on how their fellow American Muslims could cope. They surveyed the political landscape: a White House framing Islam itself as a threat, a surge in anti-Muslim hostility and suspicion of immigrants in general.

The counsellors offered tips such as limiting time on social media. And they cautioned against withdrawing in discouragement, worried about losing whatever foothold Muslims have gained in public life since the crucible of Sept. 11.

"It's very easy to tell a story of victimization, fear, feeling not welcome in our own home," said Ben Herzig, a Massachusetts therapist with a specialty in Muslim mental health. "But the narrative of Islam in American can be a positive one."

While many express alarm at Trump's statements, Muslim leaders are pushing back. They are organizing protests, hosting elected officials at their mosques, building ties with other faith groups and encouraging Muslims to run for elected office. Many of these initiatives had been planned before the general election, but have taken on a new urgency since then.

Trump was expected to sign an executive order to indefinitely stop accepting Syrian refugees into the U.S and suspend issuing visas for people from other majority-Muslim countries. The new president and his supporters insist his measures are needed to strengthen national security.

Meanwhile, a Texas state lawmaker recently sent a provocative survey to local Muslim leaders asking, among other things, their views of Islamic law and whether they would pledge not to harm Muslims who left the faith.

On Wednesday, a businessman attacked a Muslim airline employee at New York's Kennedy Airport, kicking her, shouting obscenities at her and saying that Trump "will get rid of all of you," authorities said.

"The discourse has shifted from good Muslims and bad Muslims to 'how bad is the Muslim you're talking about?'" said attorney Hassan Ahmad, an immigration law specialist in Virginia with many clients from Muslim countries.

Muslim leaders acknowledge they are in a relatively weak position from which to advocate, amid the nation's inflamed mood over immigration, religion and terrorism.

The US is home to only about 3.3 million Muslims, which means just a small number of Americans actually know a member of the faith. Many US Muslims come from families that only arrived a generation ago. But they have more organizations, charities and cultural clout than ever, built by a post-9/11 generation eager to assert their American identity.

Companies like Amazon, Nabisco and CoverGirl have recently featured Muslims in their advertisements. The night after Trump's inauguration, comic Aziz Ansari, speaking from one of the most influential platforms in pop culture, as host of "Saturday Night Live," called out anti-Muslim prejudice, white supremacy and other bias that has come to the forefront.

"It's very clear that one of the goals of bigoted language is to make the victims feel isolated and make them feel that they have no allies and they have no power to get them to be silent and intimidate them and make them give up," said Dalia Mogahed, director of research for the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding, an American Muslim think-tank.

Last month, about 2,600 people filled the Islamic Society of Boston Cultural Center, for an interfaith event expressing support for the community. Among the speakers were U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts and Boston Mayor Marty Walsh.

This month, Wardah Khalid, a 30-year-old graduate of Texas A&M University, started a Washington organization called Poligon to train American Muslims how to lobby Congress. She got the idea from working as an analyst for the Friends Committee on National Legislation, a Quaker public policy organization.

"There are other groups visiting (congressional offices) every single day of the year and it makes a difference in terms of policy asks," Khalid said. She said she's received a strong response to the launch on Facebook and through her website. "It got a lot of momentum," Khalid said. "People are finally waking up."

Muslims for American Progress, a project just launched by Mogahed's institute, aims to highlight American Muslim contributions to the country in medicine, science, sports, business and other fields. The profiles are based in part on data the institute has collected about Muslim professionals.

"For 15 years American Muslims have been asked to tell the world what they condemn versus what they contribute, and the conversation in this presidential campaign was with one candidate who thought Muslims were a cancer and the other who basically thought that Muslims were benign and useful as an instrument of counterterrorism. But neither of them understood the value of the American Muslim community to our country outside of counterterror," Mogahed said.

Jerusha Lamptey, a professor of Islam and ministry at Union Theological Seminary, a liberal Christian school in New York, had just wrapped up the school's first leadership training program for Muslim women when details emerged over the last week of Trump's plan to sharply restrict refugee flow.

"The scheduling turned out to be very important because it created something for us to do that was constructive and somewhat hopeful," Lamptey said. "This anxiety for the American Muslim community is not new. But this last year, it's been wildly out of control."

That angst is causing deep fatigue, especially among Muslim college students and parents desperate to protect their children, said Kameelah Rashad, founder of the Philadelphia-based Muslim Wellness Foundation, which educates Muslims on mental health issues. Rashad's son, who is in sixth grade, heard one of his teachers say people upset by Trump's election "should just get over it." Rashad said

"We are such a small minority in the country overall, so it will really just take more than us standing up and saying, 'This is inexcusable,'" Rashad said. "We're very resilient, but we also have to comfort our children. We have to figure out if my place of worship is safe on Friday. How will I be treated at work? There's an emotional exhaustion."

Surveying Trump's first week in office, she said: "I think it will get worse before it gets better."
Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, right, poses with United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres, left, after presenting him with her credentials as the new U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Friday. (Photo: AP)

Washington: The new US ambassador to the United Nations, Nikki Haley, pledged on Friday to overhaul the world body and warned US allies that if they do not support Washington, then she is "taking names" and will respond.

Haley made brief remarks to reporters as she arrived at the world body's headquarters in New York to present her credentials to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

"Our goal with the administration is to show value at the UN and the way that we'll show value is to show our strength, show our voice, have the backs of our allies and make sure that our allies have our back as well," Haley said.

"For those that don't have our back, we're taking names, we will make points to respond to that accordingly," added Republican President Donald Trump's UN envoy.

Haley, who was South Carolina's Republican governor when Trump picked her for the post, has little foreign policy and no US federal government experience.

French UN Ambassador Francois Delattre and British UN Ambassador Matthew Rycroft said they looked forward to working with Haley. The United States, Britain and France, along with Russia and China, are permanent veto-wielding members of the UN Security Council.

After her meeting with Guterres, a US official said they had "a good and productive conversation about ways they can work together to reform the UN"

Haley told reporters, "Everything that's working, we're going to make it better, everything that's not working we're going to try and fix, and anything that seems to be obsolete and not necessary we're going to do away with."

According to a draft executive order published by The Daily Beast, Trump wants a committee - including his secretary of state, attorney general and director of national intelligence -to carry out a one-year review of US funding to international organizations with the aim of almost halving voluntary funding.

A senior US administration official said on Friday that no such executive order was "expected at this time."

The United States is the largest contributor to the United Nations, paying 22 percent of the $5.4 billion core UN budget and 28 percent of the $7.9 billion UN peacekeeping budget. These are assessed contributions - agreed by the UN General Assembly - and not voluntary payments.

UN agencies, such as the UN Development Programme, the children's agency UNICEF, the World Food Programme and the UN Population Fund, are funded voluntarily.

Last year, Trump took to Twitter to disparage the 193-member world body after the United States abstained in a Dec. 23 UN Security Council vote, allowing the adoption of a resolution demanding an end to settlement building by US ally Israel.

Trump, who had called on President Barack Obama's administration to veto the resolution, warned that "things will be different" at the United Nations after he took office on Jan. 20.
Washington: US President Donald Trump has said he does not know his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, but getting along with him would be good for both the countries.

"I don't know Putin, but if we can get along with Russia, that's a great thing. It's good for Russia, it's good for us," Trump told Fox News.

"We go out together and knock the hell out of ISIS, because that's the real sickness, you know the whole ISIS thing is the real sickness," he said.

"But if we get along with Russia and other -- not just we should get along with everybody if we can. Now, in some cases you won't be able to but we've got to try," Trump said in response to a question.

Trump is scheduled to talk over phone with Putin.
US President Donald Trump shakes hands with British Prime Minister Theresa May after a news conference in the East Room of the White House in Washington. (Photo: AP)

Washington: Prime Minister Theresa May went to Washington, and President Donald Trump extended the hand of friendship. Literally.

May left Washington after a 24-hour visit as Saturday's British newspapers splashed front-page photos of the two leaders touching hands as they walked at the White House before a strikingly collegial news conference.

May wanted her meeting, Trump's first as president with a foreign leader, to revitalize the trans-Atlantic "special relationship." She got her wish, delighting those who think Trump's presidency will be good for Britain but alarming others who loathe the brash Republican populist.

She goes home, after a stop in Turkey Saturday to meet President Recep Tayyip Erdogan with Trump's promise to seek an early trade deal with Britain once it leaves the European Union, a commitment from the president not to abandon NATO and Trump's praise for what he called "this most special relationship."

Trump gets an invitation from Queen Elizabeth II to come for a state visit later this year, a treat for a president with Scottish roots and a taste for opulence.

So there was satisfaction from May's team aboard her RAF Voyager jet at how well the hastily arranged trip had gone.

May also praised Trump's "stunning" election victory and declared that they shared a commitment to make government serve "working people." May's embrace of aspects of Trump's policies infuriated her opponents in Britain and could make other European leaders uneasy.

British Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron said May "clearly spent her time with Trump dodging his despicable comments on torture, on women, on Muslims and on Mexicans."

Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn said May "failed to challenge Trump and stand up for our values" at a joint news conference with the president Friday.

Trump, meanwhile, extolled Britain's vote to leave the EU, saying Brexit would be "a tremendous asset and not a tremendous liability."

There's a touch of irony in Trump's praise for Brexit Britain. May supported the losing "remain" side in the EU membership referendum and now has to implement a decision she opposed.

But those comments and the warmth of the visit drew approval from the pro-Brexit sections of Britain's press.

"It was one of the most extraordinary days in the long history of U.K.-U.S. relations," said the Daily Mail under the headline "Love-In at the White House" and a picture of the hand-holding moment.

May's office said Trump offered his hand in a chivalrous gesture as the pair approached an unexpected ramp, and she took it.

The trip will provide images for countless future stories about the trans-Atlantic bond. As well as the shoulder-to-shoulder press conference, May got a handshake in the Oval Office beside a bust of Winston Churchill that has become minor obsession for sections of the British press since it was moved to another spot in the White House by President Barack Obama. Trump restored it to a prominent place beside the Oval Office fireplace.

At times it seemed the visit would be overshadowed by Trump-related headlines that had nothing to do with May, including his feud with Mexico over who would pay for the border wall.

While May was in town the White House announced that Trump would speak by phone with Russian President Vladimir Putin Saturday, amid speculation he could be preparing to lift U.S. sanctions over Ukraine. May said Britain wants to see the sanctions stay in place.

And at the news conference with May, Trump repeated his belief that torture works - though he said he would defer to Defense Secretary James Mattis, who thinks otherwise. Britain, May stressed during the trip, is firmly against torture.

May had scarcely left when Trump issued an executive order barring all refugees from entering the U.S. for four months and imposing a 90-day ban on people from seven Muslim-majority countries.

On the whole, May emerged from the joint appearance looking confident and controlled. Trump, too, was notably calm and measured in her presence.

When May said Trump has assured her he was "100 percent" behind NATO, a body he once called "obsolete," the president muttered his agreement.

And he said he was confident the two very different leaders were going to get along.

"I am a people person," Trump said. "I think you are also, Theresa."
Robin Rhodes attacked Rabeeya Khan, who was wearing a hijab while she was working at Delta Airlines' Sky Lounge. (Photo: Representational Image)

New York: A Massachusetts man who prosecutors said yelled that President Donald Trump "will get rid of all of you" after assaulting a female Muslim employee at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport faces nine hate crime charges.

Robin Rhodes, 57, of Worcester attacked Rabeeya Khan, who was wearing a hijab, or head scarf, while she was working at Delta Airlines' Sky Lounge on Wednesday evening, Queens District Attorney Richard Brown said in a statement on Thursday.

Rhodes, who was waiting for a connecting flight home after arriving from Aruba, approached the door of the office where Khan was working and said, "Are you sleeping? Are you praying? What are you doing?"

He punched the door, which struck Khan's chair, and then threatened her and kicked her in the right leg, according to Brown's statement.

Khan tried to flee, but Rhodes blocked her until a passerby stopped and attempted to calm him down, the statement said.

She was then able run out of the office. Rhodes followed her to the lounge's front desk, where he got down on his knees and began to bow in imitation of a Muslim praying, prosecutors said.

"Trump is here now," Rhodes shouted, according to Brown's statement. "He will get rid of all of you. You can ask Germany, Belgium and France about these kind of people. You will see what happens."

According to the statement, Khan suffered pain in her right leg and was afraid Rhodes would hurt her more.

Delta spokesman Anthony Black said Khan worked for an Israeli company that provides services to the airline, which had reached out to her employer to offer support.

In a statement, the airline said: "People who are violent or exhibit bullying behavior are not welcome."

Rhodes is due to be arraigned in Queens Criminal Court, where he will face nine hate crime charges, including third-degree assault, second-degree unlawful imprisonment and first-degree harassment. If convicted, he faces up to four years in prison.

An official at Brown's office said contact details for Rhodes' lawyer were not immediately available.
The new United States Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley waves to reporters as she arrives to the home of the US Mission in New York. (Photo: AP)

United Nations: The new US ambassador to the United Nations, Nikki Haley, pledged on Friday to overhaul the world body and warned U.S. allies that if they do not support Washington, then she is "taking names" and will respond.

Haley made brief remarks to reporters as she arrived at the world body's headquarters in New York to present her credentials to U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

"Our goal with the administration is to show value at the UN and the way that we'll show value is to show our strength, show our voice, have the backs of our allies and make sure that our allies have our back as well," Haley said.

"For those that don't have our back, we're taking names, we will make points to respond to that accordingly," added Republican President Donald Trump's U.N. envoy.

Haley, who was South Carolina's Republican governor when Trump picked her for the post, has little foreign policy and no U.S. federal government experience.

French UN Ambassador Francois Delattre and British UN Ambassador Matthew Rycroft said they looked forward to working with Haley. The United States, Britain and France, along with Russia and China, are permanent veto-wielding members of the U.N. Security Council.

After her meeting with Guterres, a U.S. official said they had "a good and productive conversation about ways they can work together to reform the U.N."

Haley told reporters, "Everything that's working, we're going to make it better, everything that's not working we're going to try and fix, and anything that seems to be obsolete and not necessary we're going to do away with."

According to a draft executive order published by The Daily Beast, Trump wants a committee including his secretary of state, attorney general and director of national intelligence to carry out a one-year review of U.S. funding to international organizations with the aim of almost halving voluntary funding.

A senior US administration official said on Friday that no such executive order was "expected at this time."

The United States is the largest contributor to the United Nations, paying 22 percent of the $5.4 billion core U.N. budget and 28 percent of the $7.9 billion U.N. peacekeeping budget. These are assessed contributions, agreed by the U.N. General Assembly and not voluntary payments.

UN agencies, such as the U.N. Development Programme, the children's agency UNICEF, the World Food Programme and the U.N. Population Fund, are funded voluntarily.

Last year, Trump took to Twitter to disparage the 193-member world body after the United States abstained in a Dec. 23 U.N. Security Council vote, allowing the adoption of a resolution demanding an end to settlement building by US ally Israel.

Trump, who had called on President Barack Obama's administration to veto the resolution, warned that "things will be different" at the United Nations after he took office on Jan. 20.
Washington: US President Donald Trump said on Friday he is only in the early stages of considering whether to lift US sanctions on Russia, as British Prime Minister Theresa May, other foreign officials and US lawmakers cautioned that such a move would be premature.

With Trump expected to speak by phone on Saturday with Russian President Vladimir Putin for the first time since taking power a week ago, speculation has been rife that he is close to lifting sanctions imposed by then-President Barack Obama over Moscow's annexation of Ukraine's Crimea Peninsula in 2014.

Such a move would likely cause consternation among European allies as well as many in the U.S. Congress who are also troubled by Russia's intervention in the Syrian civil war and by U.S. intelligence agencies' finding that Moscow meddled in the U.S. election campaign.

"As far as the sanctions, (it is) very early to be talking about that," Trump said, while insisting that he wanted to follow through on his campaign pledge to pursue better relations with Russia.

His caution on the Russian sanctions came in response to a question at a joint news conference at the White House with May, the first foreign leader to visit the president since his inauguration.

May made clear Britain wants to continue sanctions until Putin carries out the requirements in a ceasefire agreement arranged in Minsk, Belarus, in 2014. This view is shared by European allies who fear Putin could become more expansionist if he feels Trump will not intervene.

"We believe the sanctions should continue until we see the Minsk agreement fully implemented. And weve been continuing to argue that inside the European Union," May said.

The boisterous Trump and reserved May took pains to demonstrate a readiness to maintain the "special relationship" between the United States and Britain, something that is particularly important for May as she steers Britain out of the European Union.

They posed for photos before a bust of Winston Churchill in the Oval Office and Trump accepted an invitation from Queen Elizabeth to visit Britain later this year.

The two leaders held hands briefly as they walked down the White House colonnade to their news conference in the East Room. Later, they lunched on beef shortribs in the State Dining Room.

At the news conference, Trump showed flashes of the pugnacious willingness to dispense with formality that helped him win the Nov. 8 election, registering his displeasure when a British reporter asked him what he had to say to those who are "worried about you becoming the leader of the free world."

"This was your choice of a question?" Trump said with a half smile. Then, nodding toward May as laughter erupted, he added: "There goes that relationship."

On ties with Moscow, Trump has long bucked establishment Washington thinking by voicing a belief that, as he said on Friday, it would be a "tremendous asset" to have a positive relationship with Russia.

RECKLESS COURSE'

A long-time Putin critic, U.S. Senator John McCain, who like Trump is a Republican, urged Trump not to lift the sanctions, saying that he should "reject such a reckless course."

"If he does not, I will work with my colleagues to codify sanctions against Russia into law," said McCain, a long-time Putin critic.

House of Representatives Speaker Paul Ryan, the top U.S. elected Republican, told Politico of the sanctions that "I think they should stay."

Former NATO chief Anders Fogh Rasmussen, now an adviser to Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko, urged caution against reversing sanctions without winning concessions from Moscow, saying that, "easing sanctions will only embolden Russias aggression in the region, putting the security interests of Ukraine and the United States in jeopardy."

The White House encounter between Trump and May was heavily scrutinized for signs on how the relationship would develop between the leaders of two key members of the NATO alliance, who are markedly different in style but who both owe their rise to power to a tide of anti-establishment feeling in their countries.

Im not as brash as you might think, Trump said at the news conference. Im a people person and I think you are too, Theresa. I think we're going to have a fantastic relationship."

Trump, a wealthy real estate developer and former reality TV star, had never held public office when he was elected in November. May stepped in to lead Britain after the June referendum Brexit vote to leave the EU that prompted her Conservative predecessor, David Cameron, to resign.

It was notable that Trump did not give much in the way of vocal support for NATO, which he has previously declared obsolete. It was left up to May to issue support for NATO in her opening remarks at their news conference, and to encourage Trump's backing.On defense and security cooperation, we are united in our recognition of NATO as the bulwark of our collective defense, she said.

"Today weve reaffirmed our unshakeable commitment to this alliance, Mr. President I think you confirmed that you are 100 percent behind NATO."
Mexico City, Mexico: Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto and US President Donald Trump sought to tone down diplomatic tensions over the Republican's planned border wall on Friday, agreeing to seek a resolution to the thorny dispute.

One day after the spat boiled over, with Pena Nieto cancelling a trip to Washington next week in response to Trump's insistence that his country pay for the barrier, the two leaders held an hour-long phone conversation.

Trump described the talks as "very friendly" while the two governments issued a nearly similar statement saying it was "constructive and productive."

The discussion capped a week that saw relations between the neighboring nations plunge into the biggest diplomatic crisis in decades as Pena Nieto vowed that Mexico will never pay for the border barrier.

While Trump and Pena Nieto "recognized their clear and very public differences" about who should pay for the wall, they agreed to "resolve these differences as part of a comprehensive discussion on all aspects of the bilateral relation," the statement said.

But the Mexican government's version statement included a line missing from the White House text: "The presidents also agreed for now to no longer speak publicly about this controversial issue."

Trump and Pena Nieto spoke about the US trade deficit with Mexico, "the importance of the friendship between our nations" and the need for the neighbors to work together to curb drug and weapons trafficking, the statement said.

'Beat us to a pulp'

Speaking at a press conference during talks with British Prime Minister Theresa May in Washington, Trump said he had a "very good relationship" with Pena Nieto.

The US leader said he looked forward to renegotiating trade deals and other aspects of US relations with Mexico.

"As you know, Mexico with the United States has outnegotiated us and beat us to a pulp through our past leaders. They've made us look foolish," he said, noting that the US has a $60 billion trade deficit with Mexico.

Trump wants to renegotiate the 23-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) with Mexico and Canada.

Both Trump and Mexican officials have threatened to pull out of the pact if they fail to get a good deal.

"We are going to be working on a fair relationship and a new relationship, but the United States cannot continue to lose," Trump said.

Before the phone call was made public, Trump had railed against Mexico on Twitter, saying the country "has taken advantage of the US for long enough."

He complained about "massive trade deficits" and exclaimed that "little help on the very weak border must change, NOW!"

But he did not mention the wall payment.

Stiff tariff

The spat over the wall has created the biggest diplomatic rift since a drug cartel tortured and killed a US undercover agent in 1985.

Trump has angered Mexicans, perplexed economists and energized his nationalist political base by vowing to build a wall along the US frontier -- and then somehow to make Mexico pay for it.

Mexico's leaders have repeatedly said their country will never pay for the 2,000-mile (3,200-kilometer) border barrier that Trump says is needed to stop illegal immigrants and drug smugglers coming over.

Trump's response has been to ask the US Congress to find between $12-15 billion for construction and to help him find a way to recoup the money with some kind of tariff on Mexican imports.

His team have floated several ideas for how to do this. On Friday, for example, senior aide Kellyanne Conway told CBS television that a five to 20 percent tax may be imposed at the border.

On Thursday, White House spokesman Sean Spicer suggested that one option -- not necessarily the favored one -- would be a border adjustment tax of the kind favored by Republicans in the US Congress.

Visiting Washington on Thursday, Mexico's Foreign Minister Luis Videgaray scoffed at the notion, arguing that this would just pass the cost of the wall on to US consumers of Mexican goods.

Before Friday's phone call, Economy Minister Ildefonso Guajardo, who was with Videgaray in Washington this week, told the Televisa network that the two sides were "at an impasse."

But the line of communication remains open, maintaining "the possibility to find a solution," he said.
Washington: President Donald Trump on Friday put a four-month hold on allowing refugees into the United States and temporarily barred visitors from Syria and six other Muslim-majority countries, saying the moves would help protect Americans from terrorist attacks.

The order limiting entry on visitors from Syria and six other Muslim-majority countries is for 90 days. The six other countries are: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen, the White House said.

"I'm establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America. Don't want them here," Trump said earlier on Friday at the Pentagon.

"We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people," he said.

Civil rights groups condemned the measures as discriminatory, and said they would strand refugees in dangerous places and would tarnish the reputation of the United States as a land welcoming of immigrants.

The details of the order - which had been rumored for days - were not available until Friday evening, leaving people affected scrambling to figure out what it meant.

The impact was immediate, causing "chaos" for Arab-Americans who had family members already en route for a visit, said Abed A. Ayoub, legal and policy director for the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee.

Ayoub said the order could affect travelling green card holders, students, people coming to the United States for medical care and others.

The order is already affecting refugees and their families, said Jen Smyers of the Church World Service, a Protestant faith-based group that works with migrants.

Smyers said she spoke to an Iraqi mother whose twin daughters remain in Iraq due to processing delays. "Those two 18-year-old daughters wont be able to join their mother in the US," she said.

SYRIAN REFUGEES

Trump had promised the measures - called "extreme vetting" - during last year's election campaign, saying they would prevent militants from entering the United States from abroad.

The rise of Islamic State in Syria and Iraq, which fueled a flood of migrants into Europe, combined with a series of attacks in France and Belgium heightened concerns in the United States about taking in refugees from Syria.

Trump's order suspends the Syrian refugee program until further notice, and will eventually give priority to minority religious groups fleeing persecution. Trump said in an interview with a Christian news outlet the exception would help Syrian Christians fleeing the civil war there.

Stephen Legomsky, a former chief counsel at US Citizenship and Immigration Services in the Obama administration, said prioritizing Christians could be unconstitutional.

"If they are thinking about an exception for Christians, in almost any other legal context discriminating in favor of one religion and against another religion could violate the constitution," he said.

But Peter Spiro, a professor at Temple University Beasley School of Law, said Trumps action would likely be constitutional because the president and Congress are allowed considerable deference when it comes to asylum decisions.

"Its a completely plausible prioritization, to the extent this group is actually being persecuted," Spiro said.

Trump's order had been expected to include a directive about setting up "safe zones" for Syrian refugees inside the country, but no such language was included.

"President Trump has cloaked what is a discriminatory ban against nationals of Muslim countries under the banner of national security," said Greg Chen of the American Immigration Lawyers Association.
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Mikayel and Karen Vardanyans provided 136 million AMD support for the overhaul of the Myasnikyan statue, which was in unsafe state of disrepair

Believe me, as a representative of a country which uses the Schengen system very often, it is quite important. Vardanyan

I really look forward to having answers from the Azerbaijani side for these alleged gross human rights violations: Secretary General

I call on Armenian and Azerbaijani parliamentarians to use this Assembly as an agora of opportunities President Tiny Kox

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EU and CoE call on two Member States that have not yet acceded to this Protocol  Armenia and Azerbaijan  to do so without delay

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New York: An Indian-American woman, who has lived in the US for over 30 years, was stopped and asked about her immigration status while she was routinely walking in her neighbourhood in Maryland, as tensions and fear grow regarding US President Donald Trump's immigration policies.

Aravinda Pillalamarri, 47 was walking in her Bel Air neighborhood on the morning of December 21, a routine with her, when she said she was stopped by a Bel Air Police Department officer, a report in The Baltimore Sun said.

Pillalamarri, who was born in India but moved with her parents to the US when she was young, was asked by the police officer about what she was doing and she replied that she was walking. The officer continued to ask several questions. When she asked why the officer was asking her so many questions, he replied because someone had called police.

"Walking while brown?" Pillalamarri said she then asked the officer.

The report said a police supervisor arrived at the scene and began to question Pillalamarri more aggressively. The supervisor told her she wasn't free to leave because she "was under criminal investigation."

He asked why she didn't have identification with her.

"Why don't you have ID?" she said the supervisor asked her.

"Are you here illegally?"

Once the officers had run her name through their computer system, Pillalamarri said, she was allowed to leave and walked to her home, just a few doors away.

Pillalamarri, has lived in Bel Air for more than 30 years and is a US citizen. Her parents came to America from India when she was a baby. She went to Bel Air High School.

"Only when the supervisor asked 'are you here illegally' did my sense of colour, and of being unequal, come forth and my interest in my civil rights take a back seat to get out of the situation safely," she said in the report.

"Public safety does not need to come at the cost of civil rights," she added. "I am sharing this incident here not to ask anyone here to find fault or take sides. We are all on the same side and can use this as an opportunity to learn and improve. The responsibility to uphold civil rights is one that all of us share, and we need to do our part and also expect the police to do their part."

Pillalamarri said she walks in her neighbourhood nearly every day. She related her story to members of the Bel Air Board of Town commissioners at their town meeting on January 17, not to get anyone in trouble but to bring to their attention the need to uphold everyone's civil rights.

Colour was not on her mind when she was first stopped, Pillalamarri told the commissioners.

Bel Air Police Department Chief Charles Moore, who's led the agency since September 2015, said he's not sure if his department has a policy specifically dealing with questioning a person's immigration status, but added: "If there isn't one, there will be."

Moore, who was present at the meeting, said his officers do not ask someone's immigration status, particularly during a routine call. In Pillalamarri's case, there had been a call about suspicious activity and the officers responded, he said.

"There could have been more sensitivity on the part of the officer," Moore told the town commissioners.

Pillalamarri said she was uncertain of what her rights were when the officers stopped her.

"Police are training in dealing with people when they stop them on the street, but ordinary people are not necessarily training in interacting with the police," she said to the commissioners. "I did not know when I was stopped whether I had the right to remain silent, whether I was being legally detained or what information I was required to give."

Pillalamarri has since met with Moore, as well as Town Administrator Jesse Bane, who was formerly county sheriff and a career police officer, about the incident.

Moore said at the town meeting the police department could hold an open forum with the community.

"The community needs to be aware of what police are doing. They have to investigate fully," he said. "And on the officer's part, there has to be sensitivity, so it doesn't escalate to the point of being wrong, of things being said they way they're said."
San Francisco: America is a nation of immigrants and should be proud of it, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg said on Saturday as he criticised President Donald Trump's decision to severely limit immigrants and refugees from certain Muslim-majority countries.

"Like many of you, Im concerned about the impact of the recent executive orders signed by President Trump," Zuckerberg wrote on his Facebook page.

"We need to keep this country safe, but we should do that by focusing on people who actually pose a threat. We should also keep our doors open to refugees and those who need help. Thats who we are."

"We should also keep our doors open to refugees and those who need help. That's who we are. Had we turned away refugees a few decades ago, Priscilla's family wouldn't be here today," he wrote of his wife, Priscilla Chan, whose family were refugees from China and Vietnam.

"These issues are personal for me even beyond my family. A few years ago, I taught a class at a local middle school where some of my best students were undocumented. They are our future too. We are a nation of immigrants, and we all benefit when the best and brightest from around the world can live, work and contribute here. I hope we find the courage and compassion to bring people together and make this world a better place for everyone," he said.

(Photo: Facebook)

Trump signed an executive order Friday that puts a moratorium on allowing refugees from a list of predominantly Muslim countries to enter the United States.

Zuckerberg, who has long championed immigration, wrote that his great grandparents came from Germany Austria and Poland.

While keeping America safe is important, he said that the way to do it is to focus on those who actually pose a threat.

"Expanding the focus of law enforcement beyond people who are real threats would make all Americans less safe by diverting resources, while millions of undocumented folks who don't pose a threat will live in fear of deportation," he said.

Zuckerberg also prodded Trump to stand by earlier statements regarding Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (Daca) and H1-B visas, which are of particular concern to tech companies that use the visas to hire talent from overseas.

Zuckerbergs statement, though restrained, is notable at a time when the rest of Silicon Valley appears to be rushing to fall in line with the Trump administration.

Tech leaders had overwhelmingly opposed Trump's candidacy during the campaign. But following Trump's surprise election, tech leaders quickly changed their tune.
London: In a major gaffe, the White House misspelled British Prime Minister Theresa May's name three times in an official schedule of her visit to the US, confusing her name with a porn star.

Staff in US President Donald Trump's administration missed out the 'h' in her name in a document setting out the plan for talks on Friday, including a "bilateral meeting" in the Oval Office and a "working luncheon" following a joint press conference.

The White House's daily guidance and press schedule from the office of the press secretary reads: "In the afternoon, the president will partake in a bilateral meeting with United Kingdom Prime Minister, Teresa May", missing out the "h" in her name, despite spelling it correctly elsewhere, the Mirror reported.

It continued, "The president participates in a working luncheon with Teresa May, Prime Minister of United Kingdom."

The error was repeated in a later guidance note from the Office of the Vice President, though it elsewhere also spelt her name correctly, before finally being rectified fully in another notice from the same office.

Teresa May is the name of a former glamour model and porn actress. Teresa May, the actress also trended on Twitter during the race to be prime minister last summer.
Beijing: China on Saturday raised objections over the presence of the Prime Minister of 'Tibetan government-in-exile' at a recent dinner hosted by former US envoy to India Richard Verma in New Delhi, saying it resolutely opposes any country's "interference" in its internal affairs by using Tibet issue as an excuse.

The dinner hosted by Verma on January 15 in honour of his visiting friend and Hollywood actor Richard Gere was reportedly also attended by the Prime Minister of the Tibetan government-in-exile, Lobsang Sangay.

"No country in the world recognises the so-called Tibetan government-in-exile," Chinese Foreign Ministry said in a written response to PTI over reports that the Prime Minister of Tibetan government-in-exile was present at the event.

"We are firmly against any country's official contact with it in any form, and resolutely opposed to any country's interference in China's internal affairs by using Tibet related issues as an excuse," the Foreign Ministry said.

The private gathering hosted by Verma days before Donald Trump took over as US President was made public by Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju who thanked the envoy for the dinner on Tweeter yesterday.

Photographs posted on his Twitter page showed the Prime Minister of the Tibetan government-in-exile and other US diplomats attending the dinner.

China routinely protests visits and meetings of Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama and his associates saying it constitutes interference in its internal affairs.

In October last year, China objected to Verma's visit to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh which Beijing claims as southern Tibet, saying any interference by Washington in the Sino-India boundary dispute will make it "more complicated" and "disturb" hard-won peace at the border.

Last month, China took strong exception to the Dalai Lamas meeting with President Pranab Mukherjee at the Rashtrapathi Bhavan during a childrens summit.
Prague: A spokesman for Czech President Milos Zeman on Saturday praised Donald Trump's anti-migrant steps, saying the new US president simply cared about the safety of Americans.

"US President Trump protects his country, he's concerned with the safety of his citizens. Exactly what EU elites do not do," Zeman's spokesman Jiri Ovcacek said in a tweet.

In office for a week, Trump on Friday signed an order to boost the vetting of potential immigrants and refugees, seeking to keep "radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America."

The move has sparked criticism among rights groups as well as at the United Nations which called on the US to continue its long tradition of welcoming refugees.

The pro-Russian Zeman, a 72-year-old veteran leftwinger and ex-Communist, who endorsed Trump before the election last year, has criticised immigration from Muslim countries.

He once called the wave of refugees "an organised invasion" and said Muslims were "impossible to integrate."

"The safety of Czech citizens is a priority. Now we have allies in the US," Ovcacek tweeted on Saturday.

Migration is a prominent political issue in the Czech Republic, despite refugees largely avoiding the ex-Communist EU and NATO member state of 10.5 million people, heading instead to wealthier countries in western Europe.
Paris: France and Germany are "concerned" over a number of decisions by US President Donald Trump, particularly his move to restrict refugee arrivals, French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault said on Saturday.

"Welcoming refugees who are fleeing war is part of our duty," he said following a meeting with his new German counterpart, Sigmar Gabriel.

"We must ensure that this happens in a fair, just way and with solidarity."

Trump on Friday signed a sweeping executive order to suspend refugee arrivals and impose tough controls on travelers from seven Muslim countries.

"This decision can only cause us concern. But there are a lot of other issues that are causing us concern", Ayrault, with Gabriel at his side, said when asked by journalists about the restrictions.

He and Gabriel discussed "at length what we are going to do."

The pair plan to contact the nominated secretary of state, Rex Tillerson, once he is confirmed, "to discuss the issue point by point and have a clear relationship."

"Clarity, coherence and if necessary firmness are needed to defend our beliefs, our values, our vision of the world, our interests, French, German and European."

Gabriel on is on his first foreign trip since being appointed on Friday to replace Frank-Walter Steinmeier.

A spokesman for the European Commission, the EU executive said it had "no comment to make" on Trump's move.

But he recalled "comments made several times by" European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker, "that Europe is and remains open to all those who flee armed conflicts and terror, whatever their religion."
Moscow: Influential Russian security chief Nikolai Patrushev says Moscow has high hopes for a scheduled telephone call between Russian President Vladimir Putin and his US counterpart Donald Trump.

"Everything will be positive," Patrushev said Saturday, according to Russia's Interfax news agency. He is the secretary of Russia's Security Council.

The telephone call between Putin and Trump expected to take place later on Saturday will be the first official contact between the two leaders since Trump was sworn in as president.

The Kremlin has welcomed Trump's promises to mend ties with Moscow, which have been badly strained by the Ukrainian crisis, the war in Syria and allegations of Russian meddling in the US elections.

Putin held a meeting of the Security Council on Friday to discuss US-Russian relations.
Ankara: British Prime Minister Theresa May, who met with US President Donald Trump in Washington, arrived in Turkey on Saturday for a meeting with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, another important but complicated British ally.

May flew overnight to Ankara by RAF Voyager jet from the U.S., where she and Trump hailed a new chapter in the trans-Atlantic "special relationship."

May's talks in Ankara with Erdogan and Prime Minister Binali Yildirim will focus on boosting trade between Turkey and Britain once the U.K. leaves the European Union, and on increasing cooperation over security and counterterrorism.

May, who is paying her first visit to Turkey since becoming prime minister, is under pressure at home to condemn Turkey's clampdown on civil liberties since the government crushed a coup attempt in July.

Turkey has detained tens of thousands of people suspected of links to a movement led by US-based Muslim cleric Fethullah Gulen, whom the government accuses of orchestrating the failed attempt. More than 100,000 others have been dismissed from government jobs.

The clampdown extended to other government opponents. More than a hundred journalists and pro-Kurdish party leaders are in jail.

Kate Allen, head of Amnesty UK, said the visit was a "vital opportunity" for May to ask "probing questions" about allegations of excessive use of force and ill-treatment in detention.

May's office said Britain urged Turkey "to ensure that their response is proportionate, justified and in line with international human rights obligations."

May and Turkish leaders are also expected to discuss the conflict in Syria and efforts to reunite Cyprus.
The fighting trapped tens of thousands of civilians in the rebel-held area. (Photo: Representational Image/AP)

Damascus: Syrian state TV and military media army say government troops have gained control of the main water source for Damascus.

The development on Saturday could signal the end of a standoff in the Barada Valley that restricted the water flow to nearly 5 million residents for nearly a month. The fighting trapped tens of thousands of civilians in the rebel-held area.

The opposition monitoring group Syrian Observatory for Human Rights says government forces entered Ain el-Fijeh as part of a deal to end the fighting that continued despite a ceasefire. The deal would also mean rebels will either put down their weapons or evacuate.

The fighting was sparked by government claims that rebels poisoned the water source at Ain el-Fijeh - a claim the rebels denied.

Syrian troops take control of water facility from rebels

AP

Damascus: Syrian state TV and military media army say government troops have gained control of the main water source for Damascus.

The development on Saturday could signal the end of a standoff in the Barada Valley that restricted the water flow to nearly 5 million residents for nearly a month. The fighting trapped tens of thousands of civilians in the rebel-held area.

The opposition monitoring group Syrian Observatory for Human Rights says government forces entered Ain el-Fijeh as part of a deal to end the fighting that continued despite a ceasefire. The deal would also mean rebels will either put down their weapons or evacuate.

The fighting was sparked by government claims that rebels poisoned the water source at Ain el-Fijeh, a claim the rebels denied.
Frankfurt am main: Several dozen Turkish soldiers assigned to NATO have sought asylum in Germany, a media report said Saturday, quoting officers who said they fear jail and possibly torture back home.

Around 43,000 people are under arrest in Turkey on charges or links to last year's failed military coup against President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

"About 40 Turkish troops, mostly of high rank and stationed in NATO bases, applied for asylum in Germany," Der Spiegel magazine and the ARD television station said in a joint report.

One officer, who insisted he had no connection to the coup attempt or sympathy for those behind it, was quoted as saying: "If I return to Turkey I risk imprisonment, or perhaps torture."

The report quoted Germany's interior ministry and Office for Migrants and Refugees as saying the soldiers would be treated no differently as other people who apply for asylum.

Turkey has been vital to European Union (EU) plans to stop the mass flow of migrants from the Middle East and Africa into the bloc, especially to Germany.

Relations between Ankara and Berlin deteriorated in the aftermath of the attempt to topple Erdogan but German Chancellor Angela Merkel is planning to visit Turkey on February 2.

The German government has expressed alarm about the crackdown on alleged plotters linked to the coup while Turkey has criticised Berlin for failure to extradite alleged terror suspects.

Turkey blames the coup effort on US based preacher Fethullah Gulen. He denies the charges. Around three million Turkish people live in Germany.
Lawyer: Ararat Khandoyan is subjected to torture in prison

Why should Ararat Khandoyan, the brother of Sasna Dzrer group member Arayik Khandoyan (aka Lonely Wolf), be transferred to a prison cell with broken windows for a second time? Khandoyans lawyer Ara Gharagyozyan is going to address a letter to the chief of the Nubarashen penitentiary, Serob Harutyunya, to know the answer to the question. The lawyer has already applied to the Minister of Justice and the Penitentiary Department of the Ministry of Justice. I requested them to launch an investigation into the matter to know on what basis a person with health problems should be transferred to a cold cell with broken windows, Ara Gharagyozyan said to A1+. The lawyer finds it strange that the prison administration, being aware of Khandoyans health condition, allowed the transfer. Gharagyozyan considers it torture against his client. In this way, they want to show us that they will do whatever they want. The Foundation Against the Violation of Law (FAVL), where I work, has held discussions on the issue and we are going to apply to international organizations. The relevant bodies [in Armenia] sponsor and even ignore the fact of torture, the lawyer added. Ararat Khandoyan is accused of using violence against a government representative during the July 20 clashes on Khorenatsi street in Yerevan. Khandoyan does not accept charges brought against him.
Wearing heavy winter coats, they lit incense sticks and bowed as they prayed for good fortune and health. (Photo: AP)

Beijing: Chinese are heading to temples and fairs to wish for an auspicious start to the Lunar New Year.

Thousands gathered at Beijing's major temples on Saturday, the first day of the Year of the Rooster. Wearing heavy winter coats, they lit incense sticks and bowed as they prayed for good fortune and health. As many as 80,000 people were expected at the Lama Temple in central Beijing, state television reported.

Beijing's sprawling spring festival temple fair opened at Ditan Park, where empty tree branches were festooned with red lanterns and traditional goods and foods were for sale.

Other New Year's traditions include the eating of dumplings in northern China and the lighting of fireworks. Beijing's government called on Communist Party cadres and government staff not to set off firecrackers due to environmental concerns, but local media reported air pollution levels in Beijing and several other cities still shot up Friday night and early Saturday morning.

Ethnic Chinese and others around the world also marked the holiday with celebrations and visits to temples.

Large crowds gathered in Hong Kong and Malaysia on Friday night as the holiday began. In Rio de Janeiro, crowds watched a dragon dance and a performance of tai chi in front of a picture of Rio's famous Christ the Redeemer statue. New York brought in the holiday with fireworks over the Hudson River.
Salman Haider was critical of the fundamentalists in the sensitive Muslim-majority nation. (Photo: AP)

Islamabad: Three weeks after he went missing, a Pakistani professor and prominent human rights activist has returned home, police said on Saturday.

Salman Haider, a professor at the Fatima Jinnah University and human rights activist, returned home late last night, Geo News reported quoting police officers.

He had gone missing on January 6 when he was in the Bani Gala area with his friends and called his wife to tell her that he would return home by 8 pm.

When Salman, who was critical of the fundamentalists in the sensitive Muslim-majority nation did not return by 10 pm, his wife called him but his phone went unanswered, his brother Zeeshan Haider said.

His wife later received a text message from Salman's phone that asked her to pick his car from Coral Chowk, Zeeshan said.

Police had found the professor's car from Coral Chowk but no information about him.

A missing person's report for Salman was filed in Lohi Bher police station and an investigation was launched.

He was among four activists, others identified as Waqas Goraya, Asim Saeed and Ahmed Raza Naseer, who had gone missing this month. They had been accused of promoting blasphemy, a criminal offence in Pakistan.

A United Nations human rights expert on January 12 called on the Pakistani authorities to make it a top priority to locate and protect four disappeared human rights and social media campaigners, saying no government should tolerate attacks on its citizens.
Islamabad: Pakistani police said they filed a criminal case against the parents of slain social media celebrity Qandeel Baloch, alleging they were bribed to change their testimony to protect one of two sons facing trial in her suspected 'honour killing'.

Baloch, an avowed feminist whose raunchy photos posted online challenged social norms in Pakistan, was found strangled in July at her parents' home in Muzzafarabad, a village near the city of Multan in eastern Punjab province.

Her death drew renewed attention to the practice, widespread in Pakistan, of relatives killing women thought to have brought shame on their family. The government has since tightened legislation against such 'honour killings', including removing the right of families to forgive those responsible.

Baloch's parents, Muhammad Azeem and Anwar Bibi, had originally implicated two of their sons in the killing, but in court proceedings on Wednesday they said their elder son, Aslam Shaheen, was not involved.

In a First Information Report (FIR), which marks the formal opening of a criminal investigation, Muzzafarabad police officer Allah Bakhsh alleged seeing Baloch's parents receive an envelope from Aslam Shaheen outside the courthouse in Multan, where the murder case is being heard.

"He told them that he has fulfilled their demand. Now, they should record their statement in the court in his favour," reads the FIR, indicating that the parents had taken a bribe to change their testimony.

Baloch's parents denied the accusation

"We had wrongly nominated Aslam Shaheen in Baloch's murder case. It was the outcome of anger," Muhammad Azeem and Anwar Bibi told a news conference outside their home.

Baloch received frequent online abuse including death threats before her murder but refused to back down, writing in one Facebook post about changing "the typical orthodox mindset" of people in Pakistan.
President Donald Trump today signed an executive order which establishes new vetting measures to limit the flow of refugees and "keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the US".





"I'm establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America. We don't want them here," Trump said after he signed the executive order in his first visit to the Pentagon, a week after he was sworn in as the President.



"We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas. We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people," Trump said.



"We will never forget the lessons of 9/11 nor the heroes who lost at the Pentagon. They were the best of us. We will honour them not only with our words, but with our actions, and that's what we're doing today," said Trump flanked with the new Defense Secretary Gen (rtd) James Mattis and the Vice President Mike Pence.



The executive order "Protection of The Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry Into The United States" notes that the steps taken by the US in the aftermath of 9/11 has not been able to deter terrorists from entering the country.



"Numerous foreign-born individuals have been convicted or implicated in terrorism-related crimes since September 11, 2001, including foreign nationals who entered the US after receiving visitor, student, or employment visas, or who entered through the US refugee resettlement program," it said.



Deteriorating conditions in certain countries due to war, strife, disaster, and civil unrest increase the likelihood that terrorists will use any means possible to enter the US, the executive order said.



The US must be vigilant during the visa-issuance process to ensure that those approved for admission do not intend to harm Americans and that they have no ties to terrorism, it said.



"In order to protect Americans, the US must ensure that those admitted to this country do not bear hostile attitudes toward it and its founding principles," the executive order said adding that the US cannot, and should not, admit those who do not support the Constitution, or those who would place violent ideologies over American law.



In addition, the US should not admit those who engage in acts of bigotry or hatred (including "honour" killings, other forms of violence against women, or the persecution of those who practice religions different from their own) or those who would oppress Americans of any race, gender, or sexual orientation, it said.



The executive order suspends the US Refugee Admissions Programme for 120 days until it is reinstated "only for nationals of countries for whom" members of Trump's Cabinet deem can be properly vetted.



The order also prevents all persons from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia or Yemen from entering the country for 30 days



News reports had said that US has identified six countries  Iran, Iraq, Sudan, Syria, Libya, Somalia, Yemen and Iraq  from where it would refuse to provide its visas.



With respect to countries like Afghanistan, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia it would resort to extreme vetting.



As per the executive order, the list of such countries is to be expanded. It would be those countries who fail to provide information to the US about their citizens applying for a US visa.



In an interview to Christian Broadcast Network, Trump said he would give priority to Christina refugees. "We are going to help them," he said.



"They've been horribly treated. Do you know if you were a Christian in Syria it was impossible, at least very tough, to get into the United States?," he said.



"If you were a Muslim you could come in, but if you were a Christian, it was almost impossible and the reason that was so unfair, everybody was persecuted in all fairness, but they were chopping off the heads of everybody but more so the Christians. And I thought it was very, very unfair," Trump said.




More than one kg of cocaine, worth Rs 5 crore, was seized and a South African woman, who had swallowed capsules containing the contraband, arrested at the airport here, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) said today.





The woman -- Princess Ntombifuthi Msomi (47) -- arrived here yesterday from Sao Paulo in Brazil via Abu Dhabi, the NCB said.



"She came on a tourist visa and was planning to leave the country after delivering the consignment of cocaine," an NCB press release said.



It said based on specific information, NCB sleuths intercepted the woman at the international airport yesterday and seized 1.075 kg of cocaine from her possession.



The seized cocaine was concealed in "82 capsules" which the woman had swallowed, the release added.



Stating that this modus operandi was followed by "experts" who could swallow "around 200 capsules", the NCB said they could also keep them concealed in their stomach "up to 48 hours".



The seized contraband was worth around Rs 5 crore in the local illegal market, it was of a very pure form and was sourced directly from the cocaine production belt in South America, it added.



The woman was believed to be working at the behest of the South American Cocaine cartel and a probe was on to unearth her links in Chennai, the NCB said.
Poorva Joshipura, PETA India CEO, said the PETA India was a law abiding organisation which has spent the last 17 years advocating 'ahimsa' (non violence), promoting vegetarian foods and clothing, facilitating free veterinary care for working animals whose owners cannot afford it, among other life saving activities.



"Calling for a ban on PETA India would also be akin to calling for a ban on a child protection organisation which saves children from illegal trafficking. We should all be concerned that such an action is being called for," she said.



After the massive protests in Chennai gained success with the revocation of ban on 'Jallikattu', leaders across political parties have supported a similar action to facilitate Kambala.



A division bench of the Karnataka High Court, headed by Chief Justice S K Mukherjee, in an interim order in November 2016, had stayed holding of Kambala on a petition by PETA challenging it in view of orders passed by the Supreme Court on Jallikattu.



Kambala committees have filed an interim application, seeking vacation of the stay. The ban has sparked a debate on whether the event amounts to cruelty to animals or is just a simple rural sport. Kambala in its traditional form was non-competitive, but over the years, it has become an organised sport.



Animal rights activists claim that the buffaloes run in the race due to fear of being beaten, which the organisers dismiss, saying no violence is involved and that modifications had been made to ensure that it is animal friendly.



Facing growing demand for holding Kambala after the success of the Jallikattu stir in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has said an ordinance could be brought in, if necessary, to allow the event after seeking legal opinion.



He had also asked the Centre to take a favourable stand on Kambala as it did on Jallikattu, where both Tamil Nadu and Central governments, after facing public pressure moved swiftly to facilitate the bull-taming sport.



Raising the pitch for lifting the ban on annual buffalo race "Kambala" in Karnataka, thousands of people today staged a massive rally in Dakshina Kannada district here in support of the traditional sport, even as protests on the issue intensified.Amid tight security, Kambala supporters marched in a nearly four-km long procession from Swaraj Maidan with 200 bullocks and ended their protest against the ban at Kadalakere Nisargadhama Kambala Track.The protesters holding placards and shouting slogans demanded an ordinance, as was done in the case of Jallikattu (bull taming sport) in Tamil Nadu, to permit holding of the folk sport which is part of the tradition of the coastal Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts.Kambala was part of agriculture and an 800-year-old tradition which was is indivisible component of our lives, the supporters said, emphasising that they treated the buffaloes as their own children and no violence was involved unlike in Jallikattu, where deaths and injuries to many occur.The protest was called by various committees associated with the organisation of the sport, including the District Kambala Samiti, Sampradaya Kambala Samiti, Kambala Academy and Moodbidri Koti-Chennaya Jodukare Kambala Samiti.A symbolic Kambala was planned earlier as part of the protest, but was given up after persuasion by district authorities against violating the law. The matter is before the Karnataka High Court at present and it will hear the case on January 31.The annual sport, held from November to March, involves a pair of buffaloes tied to the plough and anchored by one person. They are made to run in parallel muddy tracks in a competition in which the fastest team wins.Kambala is believed to be held to propitiate the Gods for a good harvest, besides being a recreational sport for farmers.Meanwhile, a PETA statement said agitators in Karnataka have taken a leaf out of the pro-Jallikattu protesters' book and begun to falsely label PETA India as "foreign" and were now calling for banning the organisation.




"What's happened is very unfortunate. We hope the people of Rajasthan will understand & empathise with our intentions & give us their support. As a team, we are making 'Padmavati' keeping in mind the sensitivities and emotions of the people of Rajasthan and the Rajput community. "Sanjay Sir is one of the most accomplished & authentic filmmakers we have in India, & he wont ever do anything to hurt anyones feelings," Ranveer tweeted.



Shahid, who is in the role of Raja Ratan Singh, condemned the assault on Bhansali, saying violence is "unacceptable". "Very very sad. Words do fall short and feel too little to express feelings. Violence is unacceptable. This incident has shocked me. We need to look deep within as a society, as a country, as a people. Where are we headed," he wrote.



Terming the incident as "unacceptable", Film & Television Producers Guild of India Ltd and many leading members of the film fraternity like Salim Khan, Shabana Azmi, Karan Johar, Anurag Kashyap, Hansal Mehta, have urged the government to take strong punitive action against the group. "The people those who attacked Sanjay Leela Bhansali called themselves Rajputs. The incident is a matter of shame to the noble community," Salim tweeted.



"Film industry must stand as one and do whatever it takes to ensure that the reprehensible attack on SLB becomes a flashpoint for 'goondagiri' to stop," Azmi tweeted. Johar, who himself has been at the receiving end of fringe elements during the release of "Ae Dil Hai Mushkil", said he felt "appalled" at what happened with Bhansali.



"Having been through many instances of turmoil during a film shoot or release... I understand Sanjay's emotions at this points. I stand by him. "Thoughts of what has transpired with Sanjay Leela Bhansali today are just not leaving me. Feeling helpless and angry. This cannot be our future," he wrote. Filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt wrote, "Why is I & B Ministry silent when #NationalAward Winning director #SLB is assaulted? Jr IB Mantri #RajyaVardhanSingh is from Jaipur!"



Kashyap said he was surprised that people seem to know the story even though the film is yet to be made. "We living in the times where everyone who does not read or research knows more truth than those who have spent a lifetime doing it," Kashyap said. "What happened on Padmavati sets is appalling and heinous. Is this the state of the world," Sonam tweeted.



Mehta said, "The political environment in our country is encouraging for fringe elements and attack on cultural freedom." Gowariker tweeted, "Shocking! Appalling!! Despairing!!! And still, we shall not stop making what we want to!! Sanjay stay strong! I am with you! #Padmavati." Meanwhile, VHP also criticised the filmmaker and said that no attempt to distort the history will be tolerated by the Hindu community.



"A filmmaker is free to depict a fiction but when it comes to historic facts, a huge responsibilities lies with him. Rani Padmavati created history and insult to her will not be tolerated," Narpat Singh Shekhawat, a state VHP leader said.



Director Sanjay Leela Bhansali has cancelled the shooting of "Padmavati" here, saying the assault on him and vandalism on the sets of his movie by a Rajput group that triggered outrage in the film industry was "uncalled for" and extremely damaging to the image of the beautiful city. "The shooting has been stopped by the filmmaker at Jaigarh Fort and they have vacated the place," SHO Amer police station Narendra Kumar said.A statement issued through Bhansali's representative said keeping in mind the safety of the film's crew, the director decided to stop the shooting post the "shocking" incident. "Sanjay Leela Bhansali has shot two films in Jaipur and despite his love for Rajasthan, for the safety of his crew, we have decided to stop the shoot and leave the city post the shocking incident where miscreants damaged property and misbehaved with the crew on the shoot of 'Padmavati'," it said.Bhansali was yesterday roughed up by members of the Rajput community group who also stopped the shooting by damaging the set at Jaigarh Fort, alleging that the director was "distorting facts" in the movie which is about Alauddin Khilji's obsession with Rani Padmavati. Refuting claims of the fringe group that the film will feature an intimate scene between Alauddin Khiji, played by Ranveer Singh, and Rani Padmavati (Deepika Padukone), Bhansali said there is no such sequence."We clarify that there is no dream sequence or any objectionable scene between Rani Padmavati and Allauddin Khilji. We have been carefully researching and making the film. In spite of this, the attack on the shoot and crew was uncalled for and was extremely damaging to the image of the beautiful city of Jaipur." Karni Sena today reiterated its stand to oppose any distortion of historical facts and demanded a written assurance from the director while also blaming his security for the commotion yesterday."I do not support any violence. The Karni Sena had gone there to oppose the shooting and talk to Bhansali. But he refused to meet and three bullets were fired in the air by his security men which led to provocation and commotion," Lokendra Singh Kalvi, Karni Sena founder, said at a press conference. He said they had communicated their objection six months prior to the shooting after they came to know about a supposed the dream sequence of Alauddin Khilji through Ranveer's interview.Besides Bhansali, the film's three lead stars -- Ranveer, Deepika and Shahid Kapoor -- slammed the fringe outfit for the incident. Deepika, who is in the titular role of Padmavati, tweeted, "In a state of shock!deeply saddened and disheartened by yesterday's events!#Padmavati."The actress assured that the team behind the film is not distorting any historical facts and their aim is to bring on-screen the story of "courageous and powerful" Padmavati. "As Padmavati I can assure you that there is absolutely no distortion of history.#Padmavati. Our only endeavour is & has always been to share with the world the story of this courageous & powerful woman in the purest form there is," she wrote. Ranveer too termed it an "unfortunate" incident.
If everything had gone according to plan, these would be valedictory days for President Obama. With the economy humming, if not roaring, and his approval ratings higher than they were through most of his time in office, Obama expected to take a victory lap, map out his memoir and hand the reins to a like-minded successor to build on his accomplishments.





But everything did not go according to plan, and instead he finds himself bequeathing his record to Donald J Trump. Obama is left trying to explain the debacle, salvage what he can from the wreckage and make his case to history that his was still a transformative presidency.



In his corner will be Jonathan Chait of New York magazine and one of the countrys leading progressive voices, who has come to Obamas defense with Audacity, a timely, trenchant and relentlessly argued book presenting the 44th president in terms that he himself would approve. Not only did Obama change America for the better, Chait writes, he also cemented a new policy infrastructure that will resist Trumps efforts to tear it down.



To be sure, this was a book written largely before the November election with the evident expectation that Hillary Clinton would be preparing to move into the Oval Office, and it cannot help reading that way. After Trump shocked the world with his improbable Electoral College victory, Chait tweaked the text to address the upheaval in American politics. But he did not change his fundamental conclusion or buy into the notion that Clintons defeat represented a harsh verdict on Obama. She lost despite, not because of, her association with the popular sitting president, Chait writes. Republicans nurtured the opposite conclusion to justify a demolition of Obamas new foundation. The myth of repudiation had a clear purpose: to make it appear both fair and inevitable that the conquering Republican government would destroy Obamas legacy. But, he adds, the fatalistic conclusion that Trump can erase Obamas achievements is overstated  perhaps even completely false. Chaits point is that good ideas advance in fits and stops and that Obamas presidency represented one of those great bursts that will not simply be erased despite momentary setbacks.



Whether that is the case remains to be seen. Certainly in facing the judgment of history, much of the record that Obama will point to is beyond any Republican effort to reverse. He helped pull the country back from the brink of the economic abyss, saved the auto industry, ordered the raid that killed Osama bin Laden and broke the ultimate racial barrier.



Yet, despite Chaits confidence in the durability of Obamas legacy, other elements of his agenda appear to be in jeopardy. Obamas health care programme, efforts to ease immigration rules, crackdowns on emissions by coal-fired plants, regulations on Wall Street, labour rules intended to improve worker conditions and a free-trade pact with Asia, all seem unlikely to survive, at least in the form he prefers. The fates of his nuclear agreement with Iran and his diplomatic opening to Cuba are at least in question, although Trump may ultimately find it harder than he thinks to unravel either.



It could well be that Trump unintentionally helps his predecessors case for history as a point of contrast  that whatever Obamas leadership flaws, his calm, no-drama performance will look better in hindsight to many Americans. At the same time, it raises the question that if Obama was so successful, why do so many Americans feel so dissatisfied and left behind? How could an America that twice chose Barack Obama decide to replace him with Donald Trump?



Beyond noting Clintons popular-vote margin, Chait, like others on the left, points to willful distortion by Republicans determined from the start to tear down Obama and cynical news media that were complicit in that strategy. But he also faults liberals who were too willing to flay a president they agreed with because he failed to achieve some impossible standard of progressive perfection. The yawning chasm between the scale of Obamas achievements and the mood of his supporters presents one of the mysteries of the era, he writes. While Chait agrees that Obama has not done the job perfectly, he echoes Michael Grunwald in The New New Deal by making the case that his programmes will have long-lasting, if often overlooked, impact. Obamas fiscal stimulus package, for instance, was a gigantic success, not only by helping stanch job losses but also by investing in the future in the form of renewable energy, transportation infrastructure and scientific research.



Likewise, Obamas health care programme covered 20 million more Americans while also producing an economic miracle, Chait says, in slowing the rise of medical costs even though premiums for some continued to rise sharply. Obamas green energy revolution, he adds, has already brought down climate change emissions and changed the economic calculus irreversibly. While Obamas foreign policy may not have transformed the world, Chait concludes, he made incremental progress and avoided catastrophic mistakes. For disenchanted Obama supporters, this appraisal may seem like a surprise.



The various theories of disconsolate liberals all suffer from a failure to compare Obama with any plausible baseline, Chait says. Instead they compare Obama with an imaginary president  either an imaginary Obama or a fantasy version of a past president. Now he will be compared with his successor, and that is a comparison Chait thinks favours Obama. Trump is the poisoned chalice of a failed ideology, he writes. Obama, not Trump, is destined to supply the model for American governance in the decades to come.



Chaits argument probably will not persuade many on the right, who still see a president who expanded the size and reach of government at home while undercutting American authority abroad. But it may encourage those on the left and in the middle to come around again to a president they once believed in.



For Obama, that may be enough for now. Deprived of the valediction he had sought in November, Obama may want to keep a copy of Chaits volume on the night stand in his new home in Washingtons Kalorama neighbourhood. Audacity

Jonathan Chait

Harper Collins

2017, pp 272

Rs. 719


Samsonite, one of the worlds leading luggage brand, is bullish about the prospects of its newly introduced luggage brand Kamiliant in India.





The company is also planning to introduce new international brands in India as part of its product portfolio expansion strategy. We have got a good response to our newest launch Kamiliant, which was introduced in 2016. We had clocked a turnover of Rs 100 crore for Kamiliant in calendar year 2016 (CY2016) and our aim is to double it in CY2017, Samsonite South Asia director marketing Anushree Tainwala told DH.



The company is also planning to bring in atleast a couple of new brands including Speck and Gregory in 2017, Anushree added. Samsonite had acquired smartphone case maker Speck in May 2014 marking its entry into the smartphone accessories space. As far as Gregory is concerned, the company is best known for its outdoor backpacks. Currently, Samsonite India sells brands including Samsonite Red, Samsonite Black Label, American Tourister, Lipault, Kamiliant and recently-acquired Tumi. Samsonite had clocked sales of Rs 1,200 crore in 2016 with 15% of it coming from Karnataka alone.



According to Anushree, Samsonite is soon planning to launch its own ecommerce platform as well. Our sales from the online channel, which currently happen through third party websites, have jumped from 8% in CY2015 to 12% in CY2016. Hence, we plan to launch our own ecommerce platform in India in CY2017, Anushree said.


Secretary of State nominee Rex Tillerson supports peaceful resolution of Karabakh conflict

President Donald Trump's nominee for Secretary of State Rex Tillerson has expressed willingness to work with Armenia and Azerbaijan to find a peaceful settlement of the Karabakh conflict. "If confirmed, I will work with the governments of Armenia and Azerbaijan to find a peaceful, long-term solution that allows for stability and prosperity in the region. The first step in this process must be to build trust by ensuring that all agreements between the parties are respected." Senator Markey asked the Secretary of State nominee what steps he would take to ensure that Turkey ends its blockade of Armenia. Tillerson responded: "I will support the normalized diplomatic, economic, and civil society relations, between Armenia and Turkey in my ongoing discussions with the two parties. U.S. leadership and re-engagement in the region at large will help build the necessary trust to improve relations between Armenia and Turkey." He also added that he will "ensure protection of religious minorities and their property rights, including the Armenian community in Turkey." Tillerson assured that he is committed to fostering the relationship between the U.S. and Armenia, including economic opportunities.
On a chilly wintry morning, breaking frozen portions of the famed Dal Lake with his oar, boatman Mohammad Yosuf struggles to row his shikara (boat) towards the ghat (dock). As he rows the shikara, he is hoping to find some tourists. But the number of visitors on the banks can be counted on fingers.





This doesnt prevent him from making a regular trip to the site every day. Months of unrest in the Valley has hit him hard. Whether there are tourists or not, I regularly turn up at my fixed ghat. My earnings in the last six months have been virtually nil, but where else can I go, he asks.



After separatists relaxed the protest calendar some two months ago, the situation has started improving. However, the improvement has failed to restore normalcy in Kashmir. Arrival of tourists to the Valley is still to reach expected levels.



For over a month, Yosuf says, on an average he gets one turn in three days to row tourists. Something is better than nothing. I have a family of seven members and to feed them has become difficult. First, the 2014 floods dealt a blow to tourist arrivals in Kashmir and when things were shaping up for good, the unrest in the peak summer last year dashed our hopes, Yosuf rues. He is not the only one facing harsh times. There are nearly 2,500 Shikara owners at 60 docks in Dal Lake and a majority of them have similar stories to narrate. They say they are helpless and do not how to deal with such a situation.



What can we do except praying to God to normalise the situation. When people in rest of the country are moving forward, we have been caught in a quagmire of Kashmir conflict, says Mushtaq Ahmad Dar, another boatman. He says he had taken loan from a bank last year for the studies of his two children. I took the loan with the hope that I can repay it in instalments as everyone was expecting a good tourist season. But it didn't happen and I couldn't pay the instalments for the last six months. I do not know how to repay the loan and the interest now. It is a distress time for everyone in Kashmir, Dar says.



The loss of a good seasons revenue has also resulted in overdue electricity bills and pending fees of schoolchildren. However, the boatmen have not lost hope as, according to them, return of peace means rich dividends. We faced similar situations in 2008 and 2010 but from 2011 to 2014 tourists came to Kashmir in large numbers. We hope the situation will be similar this year with return of peace , the boatmen said. Their hopes have been rekindled by the return of a limited number of tourists in the last one month since the separatists stopped issuing weekly protest calendars.



Ramesh Desai, a Gujarati businessman who came to Kashmir along with his family to enjoy the snowfall, is delighted after reaching here. We were told by our friends that we should not travel to Kashmir as it was a danger zone. But it is really the heaven on earth and people in Kashmir are so hospitable, Desai said.



Asked what prompted him to visit Kashmir despite months of unrest, he says, I had planned to visit here in winter last year but due to business commitments couldn't. When in November, I decided to make a trip to Kashmir, I was initially hesitant. But later a friend of mine, who had visited here earlier, told me that visiting Kashmir is as safe as any part of the country. And he was right.



With normalcy gradually limping back after a five-month unrest, the tourist arrivals are slowly picking up. Director Tourism Kashmir, Mehmood Ahmad Shah, says the department along with all the stakeholders was organising various programmes for promotion of tourism in Kashmir. We are planning to start promotional exercises again this year to counter the negative publicity of this unrest, he says.



Aijaz Ahmad, a manager at one of the two five star hotels in Srinagar, says though the number of tourist arrivals at the moment is low, it is a positive sign for the future. We used to be overbooked, but due to the unrest all clients had cancelled their bookings. At the moment, we have 10 rooms booked out of 130. However, with the situation improving, I hope by April tourist flow will be normal," he says.



According to an official of the Tourism department, due to the unrest from July to December, Kashmir lost a large number of tourists. We lost about four to five lakh tourists during these five months. The fall was greater in domestic tourist arrivals than in the number of foreign tourists, the official said.



The official added that most of the domestic tourists arriving in Kashmir these days are from Gujarat, Maharashtra and West Bengal and the foreign tourists are mostly coming from Southeast Asian countries.



The tourism season in Kashmir in 2016 had begun on a positive note with more than 3.5 lakh tourists visiting the northern-most area of the country in the first six months. However, the unrest triggered due to the killing of militant commander Burhan Wani on July 8 dealt a blow to the hopes of people associated with tourism as almost all the bookings to Kashmir were cancelled.



Similar cancellations were witnessed in 2010 when protests erupted in Kashmir and in 2014 when the devastating floods hit the state.



According to preliminary estimates, the tourism sector suffered a loss of around Rs 3,000 crore due to the unrest, affecting livelihood of lakhs of people associated with it. However, the tourism stake holders say the normalcy like situation that is prevailing in the Valley since last two months has given them some hope. They are also elated over the recent statement by Kashmiri separatist leaders asking tourists and pilgrims to return to the Valley.



The recent improvement in situation has given a hope to the shikarawalas for an early spring of peace.


The Indian Navy will extend support to Field Marshal K M Cariappa Museum coming up at his residence Sunny Side here, Commandant of Indian Naval Academy (INA) (Ezhimala) Vice Admiral S V Bhokare said.



He was speaking at the 118th birth anniversary celebrations of Field Marshal Cariappa organised by district administration, Karnataka Kodava Sahitya Academy here on Saturday. Kodagu has given birth to first Indian commander-in-chief K M Cariappa. His service to the country is remembered even to this day, he recalled. With dedication and hardwork, one can achieve success. Cariappa is a inspiration for present generation, he said.



Recalling an incident, Bhokare said Cariappas son K C Nanda Cariappa had crossed the Line of Control once. The then Pakistan General Ayub Khan called Cariappa and informed that all efforts will be made to release Nanda Cariappa. Cariappa said there is no need to give special treatment for his son and asked him to release his son on the day when all others are released. He was a true patriot, he recalled.



MLA M P Appacchu Ranjan said Cariappa was known for discipline and honesty. The youth should imbibe Cariappas qualities to achieve success in life, he observed. Field Marshal Cariappa and General Thimmaiah Forum Convener Major (retd) B A Nanjappa said, While visiting Cariappas house, one had to compulsorily have pen, notebook and a kerchief. He would daily offer honour to the portrait of his parents with a sepoy.



Forum President Col (retd) K C Subbaiah said, The district administration has sanctioned land for museum at Sunny Side. The forum will make an effort to enrol students from Kodagu to Sainik School at Koodige.



Winners

As part of Cariappas birth anniversary, various competitions were organised for students. The winners are - EssayShafana (I), Deepthi (II), Rishika (III); patriotic song  General Thimmaiah School (I), Ammathi High SChool (II), A V School, Nelyahudikeri (III); marchpast  Government PU College, Madikeri (I), Kodagu Vidyalaya (II) and General Thimmaiah Public School (III); PU category  patriotic song  PU College, Moornadu; marchpast  PU College, Moornadu; Degree college category  patriotic song  FMC College (I), Government First Grade College (II); marchpastField Marshal College (I).


Despite various ups and downs in his nearly six-decade-long political journey, S M Krishna has been in power in one way or the other  either in the State or at the Centre. He has been a member of the Legislative Assembly, Legislative Council, Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. He has served as Union minister, Speaker, deputy chief minister, chief minister and also as Governor.



Krishna began his political career in 1962 with the Praja Socialist Party and defeated seasoned politician H K Veerannagowda of the Congress in Maddur Assembly constituency. However, his attempt to seek re-election in 1967 proved futile as Veerannagowdas son-in-law M Manchegowda won with a margin of 18,434 votes. Krishna contested the Mandya Lok Sabha polls in 1968 and defeated H D Chowdaiah. In 1971, he contested the Lok Sabha election on Jagjivan Ram Congress ticket and again won over Chowdaiah with a huge margin.



Roller-coaster ride

In 1980, he contested on a Congress ticket against C Bandigowda, who was responsible for bringing Krishna into the Congress fold. In 1980, Bandigowda was a Samajavadi Janata Party candidate. With this victory, he became the Union Minister of State for Finance.



However, in 1984, he lost to K V Shankaregowda of the Janata Party. He won from Maddur Assembly constituency in 1989 and became the Speaker and also deputy chief minister. However, he lost to Mahesh Chand, son of Manchegowda, in the 1994 polls. Thus, he became a Rajya Sabha member in 1996.



On his return to Karnataka politics again as Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee president in 1999, he became chief minister. Later, he served as the Governor of Maharashtra and entered the Rajya Sabha, which facilitated his elevation as External Affairs Minister in second term of the United Progressive Alliance government.




Vatal Nagaraj, former MLA of Chamarajanagar and president of Kannada Chaluvali Paksha on Saturday, staged a lone protest by sleeping on a mat, against the privatisation of Lalitha Mahal Palace Hotel in the city. Lalitha Mahal, the second largest palace in Mysuru, located near the Chamundi Hill, was built in 1921 and converted into a heritage hotel in 1974.



Though the state government owns the property, India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) is running the hotel on lease. Now, the Union government is planning to hand over the maintenance to private people, Nagaraj said.



He urged the state government to take over the hotel. The authorities of ITDC have asked the state government to cancel the agreement as the hotel is under loss and have also sought the government to privatise it. The Palace, which was built by Nalvadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar, the then Maharaja of Mysore for the exclusive stay of the then Viceroy of India, is a pride of Mysuru.



He warned of a state-wide protest, if the government hands over the hotel to private players. Nagaraj said that various like-minded pro-Kannada organisations will observe a Karnataka bandh on February 27 against Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his biased approach towards the state. Though the state had urged the Union government to resolve various issues, such as Mahadayi River water dispute, Kalasa-Banduri, Mekedatu drinking water project and Cauvery river water sharing issue, the prime minister has been neglecting the state, he said.



As many as 2,000 pro-Kannada organisations including Hotel Owners Association, taxi and autorickshaw associations, have extended support for the bandh, said Nagaraj.


The grieving parents of D P Sandeep Kumar (28), the soldier who lost his life in the avalanche in Kashmir, are proud of their son. I am proud of my son since he sacrificed his life for the nation. But I am not able to come to terms that my son is no more. It was his ambition to serve the nation. He struggled hard to join the Army, said Puttaraju, the father of Sandeep. He joined the Army in 2010, served in Gujarat and was posted to Jammu and Kashmir two years ago. He was killed when an avalanche hit an Army patrol company near the Line of Control (LoC) in northern Kashmirs Bandipora district.



Puttaraju and his wife Gangamma suffer from heart ailments and Sandeep was taking care of them. Sandeep used to call us twice a week. He also took us to Mysuru for a health checkup during his last visit to the village. He had told that he had been transfered to other place, said Puttaraju. The girl, who was engaged to Sandeep, said, Sandeep last called her on Monday and told that all roads have been blocked and no helicopters were coming near his place, due to the avalanche.



Sandeep did his schooling in the village and completed PU from M Krishna College in Hassan. On November 20, 2016, he was engaged to a relatives daughter and the family was preparing for the marriage, scheduled for April 22, 2017. Sandeep was the only son of the elderly couple, who earn a living by selling groceries at weekly shandies and religious fairs. Manjushetty, Sandeeps uncle, an ex-serviceman, told DH that the authorities have informed they were not able to airlift the body due to adverse weather condition in Gurej. The Army officials have informed that the body will be handed over to the family after autopsy at Srinagar.



Sandeeps mother Gangamma, who was hospitalised after the news of Sandeeps death broke, was discharged from the hospital on Friday night. Meanwhile, the residents of Devihalli, the native place of Sandeep, are angry as the district in-charge minister A Manju and Deputy Commissioner V Chaitra have not visited Sandeeps parents. They said that the authorities have not made any preparation for the final rites of Sandeep. The villagers have raised funds for the purpose, they said. However, Hassan Tahsildar Shivashankarappa visited the village to console the family members.


Ramachandrapur mutt seer Sri Raghaveshwara Bharathi on Saturday urged Parliament to take a serious look into the recommnedations of Gou Sansath (cattle sansath) for the good of the country. The seer, who has been strongly propagating conservation of native cow breeds, was speaking at the Mahamangala of Mangala Gou Yatre organised at Kulur.



Asserting that the study of indigenous cattle breeds assumes profound significance, the seer said there should be dedicated universities to study the benefits of cattle products. The cattle has better health benefits that can also get rid of the problems plaguing the country, he said. Karnataka Bank MD and CEO P Jayaram Bhat said the apathy towards traditional agriculture is the result of ignoring cattle-based agrarian activities. Such confernces reinfuse agriculture and spread the significance cattle to the world, he remarked.



Dr Sadana from Karnal in Haryana said Panchagavya (prepared using five products of cow - cowdung, urine, milk, curd and ghee) is not just sacred, but also has medicinal value and is rich in proteins. It also helps in keeping nerves and nano particles in the body, he said. Veterinary expert from Bengaluru Dr K P Ramesh said an estimated 40 Desi breeds have survived in the country. Four among them are considered for high yielding milk, 10 with dual benefits and remaining used for laborious works, he added.



He said Indian breeds are capable of facing any changes in weather and it is the only reason why most of the scientists across the globe are conducting research into such interest aspects in the cattle, he added.



The change in crop pattern, especially by growing tomato in the fields rich with black soil earlier meant for cotton is also a reason for depleting cow breeds. Krishna valley breed is on the verge of extinction due to this reason, he added. Chairman of Agri System Foundation, Coimbatore, Dr E Vadivel said Panchagavya also helps in increasing crop yields. This fact has also been proven in field experiments, he added.






The Opposition members in Mangaluru City Corporation council expressed concern over sewage being directly let into Nethravathi river in Thumbe upstream at 18 places under Bantwal Town Municipal Council jurisdiction. They demanded the mayor to urge the deputy commissioner to set up a treatment plant in Bantwal to treat the sewage. Speaking at the monthly council meeting here on Saturday, the Opposition members said tests have confirmed the presence of total coliform bacteria in alarming level in water that is being supplied to the citizens of Mangaluru. Even chicken waste is also being dumped directly to the river. Corrective steps need to be taken to check flow of sewage to the river, they said.



The members said the municipal council, which falls within Legislative Assembly constituency of District In-Charge Minister B Ramanath Rai, should have set up a sewage treatment plant. Now, only underground sewage pipelines have been laid in Bantwal town, they said. Mayor Harinath said water supplied to citizens is pure and potable. The people need not be anxious over it. The Opposition party members should not politicise the issue. If polluted water is supplied to the city, then people would have fallen sick the moment they consume it, he said. Later, the mayor said he will to visit the sites at Thumbe where sewage is directly being let into the river.



Water supply disruption

The corporators said the supply of water is irregular at Dambel, Ashokn Nagar and Jeppinamogaru. The officials told them that they will rectify the supply system within two to three days. On setting up desalination unit to supply water to industrial units, the mayor said superintending engineer will visit Chennai to examine the desalination unit there.



The corporators said that tipper vehicles owned by an elected representative outsourced by Unique Waste Processing Company, which is in charge of compost plant at Pacchanady often fails to cover the waste transported in tipper lorries and this affects road users and residents. This led to chaos and confusion in the council meeting with Opposition members demanding the mayor to name the owner of the tipper.



Misuse of funds

The Opposition leaders expressed displeasure over utilsing Rs 52 crore under AMRUT scheme for completing the mislinking works of the sewage lines. Opposition leader Roopa D Bangera said the funds should be utilised for the main project rather than incomplete works and demanded to revoke the decision to use the funds for mislinking works in Surathkal and Jeppinamogaru.



She said that she had written a letter to Urban Development Department secretary on the misuse of funds under AMRUT scheme and the latter has asked KUIDFC MD to examine the issue. Commissioner Mohammed Nazeer said KUIDFC was appointed as the nodal agency for implementing the scheme in Belagavi session. In the meeting there, it was decided to prepare an action plan by including the mislinking works, he added.



Standing Committee chairman Lancelot Pinto said filling of potholes has been taken up at 75 locations in MCC limits. MCC has submitted a proposal to the city police commissioner to lay humps at 170 locations and humps have been laid at 10 locations.


The stakes are high for the BJP in Uttar Pradesh after its stupendous performance in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls where it won 73 of the 80 seats with its ally the Apna Dal, registering leads in about 337 of the 403 Assembly segments. The ruling party at the Centre is targeting 265-plus seats in the Assembly polls. But it seems like an uphill task when one looks at the BJPs performance in the 2012 Assembly outing where it won just 47 seats and registered 15% of the votes.



This means that the party has to win 218 more seats and double its votes vis-a-vis the 2012 polls. Also, after the debacles in Delhi (2014) and Bihar (2015) Assembly polls soon after the 2014 victory, the BJP must be desperate to win Uttar Pradesh to be in good shape, at least psychologically, to face the Lok Sabha polls in 2019. The big question is, how can the BJP achieve this goal? How can it counter the SP-Congress political coalition and social coalition of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) with the Muslims?



The SP-Congress coalition is based on two premises: first, the allies votes in 2012 add up to 40% and even if there is attrition of about 10%, the alliance may romp home with 30% votes; two, the alliance partners can transfer their votes to each other.



But then, both premises can be slippery. While vagaries of electoral politics may upset vote-share arithmetic, the Congress and the SP may also fail in transferring votes to each other. The Brahmin and Dalit voters of the Congress, and the Yadav and Thakur voters of the SP could move to other parties or vote for rebel candidates, blowing up the coalition premises.



Mayawatis Dalit-Muslim alliance may be a greater worry for the SP-Congress than competition from BJP. Our empirical studies indicate lack of enthusiasm among Muslims about Mayawatis overtures of allocating 97 tickets to them. With the end of family feud and emergence of Akhilesh Yadav as the undisputed leader in the SP and the government, the confusion among Muslims is over.



Our studies show that the Muslim support for the BSP declined from 18% in 2014 to 14% in 2016 despite Mayawatis efforts, while it has gone up for the SP from 58% to 64% in the last two years. So, the Muslim voters are likely to go with the SP-Congress alliance to defeat the BJP.



If Muslims shift to the SP-Congress alliance and Mayawatis Dalit-Muslim coalition becomes ineffective, then Dalits would vote for the BJP to stop the SP from coming to power again. So, a failure of Mayawatis new social engineering could ensure two things: one, Dalits could shift to the BJP; two, Muslims may vote en bloc for the SP-Congress alliance to counter Hindu polarisation in favour of the BJP.



We have seen how communal polarisation impacted results in western Uttar Pradesh in the 2014 polls in favour of the BJP. For the first time, Asadudin Owaisi of the MIM is entering the fray and is likely to contest in a Muslim-dominant area, which can further exacerbate the situation for the SP-Congress alliance by splitting Muslim votes.



The 3D effect



The BJP, however, is confronted with the 3D effect: demonetisation, defection and dispirited campaigns. Though it has overcome demonetisation pangs after banks and ATMs resumed normal operations, our studies reported a strong undercurrent for Modi and the BJP in December 2016 post demonetisation which has taken a U-turn in favour of Akhilesh in January 2017 as he emerged stronger after his bout with father Mulayam Singh Yadav. The BJP is also facing a spate of defections and revolt among the rank and file for denying tickets to long-time loyalists and for accommodating several turncoats. But most parties face this situation on the eve of polls.



What is most surprising is the partys dispirited election campaign after the initial lead post demonetisation. As Akhilesh and his party got free media publicity during the family feud, they marginalised Modi and demonetisation discourse and captured the entire public space. Also, Modis exclusive election rallies in the state have made several local leaders lethargic about taking campaign initiatives in their respective constituencies.



The BJP is also on a weak wicket by not giving ticket to a single Muslim candidate. However, the party counters that it is working for the good of Muslims and is also trying to woo them slowly. The saffron outfit is also on the defensive by not declaring the chief ministerial face. People know Akhilesh and Mayawati as the faces of the SP and the BSP, respectively, but the BJP has to unnecessarily explain why it has no chief ministerial face and who would be its CM if it comes to power. That may adversely impact its electoral fortunes.



However, the BJP is very focussed on development and social engineering. It wants to capture the more-backwards and most-backwards among the Other Backward Castes (OBCs) which constitute 41% of the population in Uttar Pradesh. For that, the party went into an alliance with the Apna Dal that represents the more-backwards, inducted its leader Anupriya Patel into the Union ministry and made Keshav Prasad Maurya from the most-backwards community its state president.



The party also inducted Swami Prasad Maurya, who was expelled from the BSP. In addition, the BJP has formed an alliance with the Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party (SBSP) of Rajbhars who belong to the most-backward castes.



This strategy is discernible in ticket allocation too. The BJP has allocated 130 of the 370 tickets declared to non-Yadav OBCs and 33 seats would largely go to its alliance partners Apna Dal and the SBSP whose core support base is the more-backwards and the most-backwards, respectively. Thus, tickets to OBCs in the NDA kitty could be about 163 of the 403 - 40% equivalent to their share in population.



So, with a robust OBC support, probable Dalit shift and massive upper-caste support, the BJP is on a strong electoral turf. A wrong move by Akhilesh or Mayawati could greatly benefit the BJP.



(The writer is director, Centre for the Study of Society and Politics, Kanpur)


The medical board constituted to submit a report on the death of Sunanda Pushkar has failed to make any conclusions in its findings submitted to the Delhi Police. In its report submitted to the SIT, which is probing the case, the medical board, after studying the findings of the FBI and AIIMS, said the cause of her death is inconclusive.



The medical board submitted its report a month ago and they have failed to give any conclusive results. We have asked them to study the findings of the FBI and AIIMS again to draw a conclusion, a senior police officer said. The medical board, comprising doctors from Delhi, Chandigarh and Puducherry, was formed to study the findings of the FBI and AIIMS. The police is now waiting to retrieve deleted chats from Sunandas phone.



In September, Sunandas viscera samples were brought back from a FBI lab in the US by the members of a Delhi Police team probing the high profile case. The Delhi Police had also asked the FBI lab to submit its final list of observations so that they can be produced before a medical board. In January last year, a medical board comprising doctors from AIIMS, had given its opinion on the FBI report on her viscera samples, unanimously concluding that there was presence of anxiety drug Alprax in her stomach.



The wife of Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, Sunanda (51) was found dead at a suite in a five-star hotel in South Delhi on the night of January 17, 2014, a day after her spat with Pakistani journalist Mehr Tarar on Twitter over her affair with Tharoor. Several people, including Tharoor, have been questioned in connection with her death. The police have also conducted the polygraph test on six others, all prime witnesses in the case, including Tharoors domestic help Narayan Singh, driver Bajrangi and Sanjay Dewan, a close friend of the couple. In February, Mehr was questioned about her relation with the Congress leader, her fight with Sunanda over Twitter and other issues surrounding the death.
Upset with the party leadership for sidelining him, former Union minister S M Krishna quit the Congress on Saturday. The 85-year-old leader sent a letter to AICC president Sonia Gandhi, informing her of his decision to resign from the partys primary membership. He was also a permanent invitee to the Congress Working Committee.



Krishna, however, refused to comment on the resignation. Instead, he said he had convened a press conference on Sunday and would speak out then. Sources close to Krishna said he was dejected as the party high command refused to pay heed to his suggestions on issues related to the government and party in Karnataka. Besides, he was unhappy with the partys decision not to make him a Rajya Sabha member in the June 2016 elections.



Krishnas decision has come as a shock to party leaders as they fear that this may antagonise the Vokkaligas, a dominant community in the state. The community is already said to be feeling sidelined as the Siddaramaiah government has been giving priority to Ahinda (Kannada acronym for minorities, backward classes and Dalits). Ever since Krishna resigned as the external affairs minister in 2012, he has remained a forlorn figure in the Congress. The party did not give him any big responsibility during the 2013 Assembly election too.



The sulking leader had even refused to campaign for the party. But he finally agreed to campaign in Bengaluru following the intervention of senior leader A K Antony, sources said. According to sources, Krishna had complained to the high command about Chief Minister Siddaramaiahs style of functioning and had warned that the image of the party would be dented if steps were not taken to rein him in. But his efforts proved futile.



State Congress working president Dinesh Gundu Rao described Krishna as a dignified person, who is a role model to all politicians. I am not aware of his decision. He might have taken the decision to resign as he is not active in politics, Rao said.



Krishna, who began his political career in 1962, has been an MLA, MLC, member of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, served as Union minister, Speaker, deputy chief minister, president of Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee, chief minister and governor.


Serzh Sargsyan: We are grateful to you for the enormous work you have done (video)

On the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the creation of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Armenia, President Serzh Sargsyan awarded over two hundred military servicemen and freedom fighters with the highest awards of the Republic of Armenia, medals and orders, and bestowed on them high military ranks for the courage manifested in defending the borders of the Fatherland, valor, boundless dedication, as well as for their contribution to the army building and enhancement of the battle readiness of the troops. The President of Armenia congratulated the servicemen and the freedom fighters on the occasion of the holiday and on receiving high state awards. Congratulatory remarks of the President of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan addressed to the awardees Dear Awardees, I congratulate you on the occasion of the Army Day and on the receiving the Fatherlands high awards and ranks. We are grateful to you for the enormous work you have done and which is called the service to the Fatherland. First, we shall commemorate those immortals who are being awarded today posthumously. We, as a nation, stand by the parents who raised these heroes and send to their families the words of compassion and support. Those boys fell defending their families, their friends and us all. They fell so that Armenia can live, so that aspirations of our people live on and become a reality. They became immortals and together with us will continue the millennia-long and incessant march of the Armenian nation. I congratulate those present in this hall and those who in our Armed Forces carry on with the dedicated work of their fallen brothers in arms. Be aware that the Fatherland trusts you and believes in you. We are proud of you; you are the worthy sons of our nation, the power and reliance of our people, said President Serzh Sargsyan. In the presence of the particiapats of the official award ceremony, the President sent his congratulatory message to the people of Armenia on the occasion of the Army Day.
The Supreme Court on Saturday dismissed a plea against acquisition of six acres for an information technology park in Kadubeesanahalli, Bengaluru. Planned 12 years ago, the project had run into resistance from some land owners. Development in the country will be seriously impaired if all land acquisition is questioned, the court said.



Kadubeesanahalli is in eastern Bengaluru, between Bellandur and Marathahalli, about 10 km from the IT hub of Whitefield. A bench comprising Justice Arun Mishra and Justice Amitava Roy rejected the argument of senior advocate Kapil Sibal against a Karnataka High Court order dated November 26, 2012. Sibal appeared for the land owners.



The High Court order had upheld the allotment of six acres and three guntas (out of nine acres and nine guntas in Kadubeesanahalli) to Mysore IT Solutions Ltd on April 9, 2007. The government started acquiring land in 2005 through the Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board. The disputed land in Kadubeesanahalli was part of a 190-acre development proposed by the government.



The Supreme Court decision on Saturday brings to an end a full decade of litigation. The bench concurred with the contentions of senior advocate Harish Salve, assisted by Nishant A V and Balaji Srinivasan, appearing for Mysore IT Solutions.



They had submitted that the acquisition called for no interference as Bengaluru had become a hub for technology start-ups. The project in Kadubeesanahalli will add to the growing Indian technology work force, they said.



Sibal, on the other hand, argued that the state had not spared the petitioners lands even though they had claimed no compensation. He wanted to know why the benefits of denotification had been extended to some owners, but not to the petitioners.



The bench remained unconvinced, and said the acquisitions had been made independently under the Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board Act, and could not be judged on the basis of denotification elsewhere.




US President Donald Trump on Friday closed the nations borders to refugees from around the world, ordering that families fleeing the slaughter in Syria be indefinitely blocked from entering the United States. The US president also temporarily suspended immigration from predominantly Muslim countries  Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen.



In an executive order that he said was part of an extreme vetting plan to keep out radical Islamic terrorists, Trump also established a religious test for refugees from Muslim nations: he ordered that Christians and others from minority religions be granted priority over Muslims.



We dont want them here, Trump said of Islamist terrorists during a signing ceremony at the Pentagon. We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas. We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country, and love deeply our people.



Earlier in the day, Trump explained to an interviewer for the Christian Broadcasting Network that Christians in Syria were horribly treated and alleged that under previous administrations, if you were a Muslim you could come in, but if you were a Christian, it was almost impossible.



I thought it was very, very unfair. So we are going to help them, the president said. In fact, the United States accepts tens of thousands of Christian refugees. According to the Pew Research Center, almost as many Christian refugees (37,521) were admitted as Muslim refugees (38,901) in the 2016 fiscal year.



Rebuilding army

Additionally, Trump signed a memorandum on Friday directing what he called a great rebuilding of the armed services, saying it would call for budget negotiations to acquire new planes, new ships and new resources for the nations military. Our military strength will be questioned by no one, but neither will our dedication to peace, Trump said.



Announcing his extreme vetting plan, the president invoked the specter of the 9/11 attacks. Most of the 19 hijackers on the planes that crashed into the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, were from Saudi Arabia. The rest were from the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Lebanon. None of those countries are on Trumps visa ban list.



Human rights activists roundly condemned Trumps actions, describing them as officially sanctioned religious persecution dressed up to look like an effort to make the United States safer.



The president signed the executive order shortly after issuing a statement noting that Friday was International Holocaust Remembrance Day, an irony that many of his critics highlighted on Twitter. The statement did not mention Jews, though it cited the depravity and horror inflicted on innocent people by Nazi terror.


The state Cabinet on Saturday gave its approval for amending the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (PCA), 1960, to pave the way for Kambala, a traditional buffalo race held in the coastal districts. Briefing reporters after the meeting, Law Minister T B Jayachandra said the act would be amended to include Kambala and bullock cart racing as traditional sports.



The government will place the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Karnataka Amendment) Bill, 2017, before the state legislature for approval. A week-long session of the legislature is scheduled to commence on February 6.



Jayachandra said once the bill was approved by the legislature, it would be sent to the President for approval. At present, Kambala is not allowed following an interim stay by the Karnataka High Court.



The state government has been under tremendous pressure to allow Kambala after the Tamil Nadu government circumvented the Supreme Court ban on Jallikattu (bull taming) by promulgating an ordinance and later replacing it with a law.
The Madiwala flyover has been named the Mahasharana Madiwala Maachideva flyover. During the naming ceremony organised by the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) on Saturday, Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy said he will urge Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to include Madiwala community in the list of the Scheduled Castes.



Mayor G Padmavathi said Rs 19 crore had been earmarked in the state budget for development of the community. However, the amount was not utilised. The community should demand that the government utilise the budgetary allocation and ensure it is used for the uplift of the community. She said she had recently visited dhobi ghats on Queens Road, Ashoknagar, Malleswaram and other places and released Rs 35 lakh for upgrading them from the Mayors fund.


Punjab Congress president Capt Amarinder Singh on Saturday called Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal the most corrupt politician in India and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal the biggest of all liars.



Exuding confidence of a Congress sweep in the Assembly polls, the Congress chief ministerial candidate negated any threat either from the AAP or the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), saying he did not see them securing more than 25 and 12 seats respectively.



In the remaining seats, the Congress would win hands down. The SAD would trail heavily even in their strongholds of Lambi and Jalalabad - the seats of the Badal father-son duo. Sukhbirs own constituency of Jalalabad is in a big mess, with no development since he had been busy all these years looting the state, Amarinder alleged.



He came down heavily on Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal for growing religious intolerance and incidents of sacrilege in the state, and promised to put the latter behind bars after getting all cases of desecration re-investigated.


Pharma exhibition in Bengaluru from February 11

The India Pharma & India Medical Device 2017 exhibition will be held at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre from February 11 to 13. It is being organised by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry. Kumar termed it the Pharma Kumbh of the country. Workshops and live demonstrations will be conducted on the theme Shaping the Future: Making the right choices. For the first time, an international regulators meet will be part of the expo, he said.



Drug regulators from 12 countries, including USA and Japan, will participate and interact with drugs controllers in India. They will see our facilities and environment and will be convinced about the global standards of our products. The purpose is to make it easier to get clearance and approval when drugs produced in India are exported, Kumar said. There will be two roundtable discussions - one with representatives from the government and the other an interaction between CEOs and regulators, he added.



Union Minister of Chemicals and Fertilisers Ananth Kumar announced on Saturday that the notification on reduced prices of stents will be issued in a few days.He was speaking while announcing the second edition of India Pharma & India Medical Device 2017 exhibition, to be held in Bengaluru in February.People were being charged high prices for all kinds of stents. Now that stents have been included in the National List of Essential Medicines as a Schedule I drug, the prices can be controlled by issuing Drug Price Control Orders, he said.He said the Union government was mulling over making the uniform code of pharmaceuticals marketing practices (UCPMP) mandatory.The UCPMP was introduced in January 2015 as a voluntary code of conduct, but it is not being followed in letter and spirit. So we are thinking of making it compulsory, Kumar said. India lags behind in the production of bulk drugs and medical devices, with 80% of the devices used in the country being imported, he said.We will set up pharma and medical device parks in Visakhapatnam and Ahmedabad. Governments of Himachal Pradesh and Telangana have also shown interest in setting up such parks, he said. The cost of providing common infrastructure and land will be borne by the Central and state governments, bringing the cost of production down by 30%, the minister added.
Nurturing dreams of capturing the politically crucial state of Uttar Pradesh in the coming Assembly polls, the BJP on Saturday promised sops for every section of society in its election manifesto, but targeted the farmers, labourers and women. The manifesto released here by BJP president Amit Shah promised to waive crop loans of small and marginal farmers, besides providing them loans at a lower rate of interest.



Apparently keeping in mind the anger of sugar cane farmers in western and central regions, Shah said his party would ensure clearance of the arrears due to them from sugar mills within a fortnight of assuming power. The manifesto also promised 100% paddy purchase by the government and power to farmers at cheaper rates.



Shah said a BJP government in the state would provide free LPG cylinders to the poor, free education to girls up to graduation and laptops with free 1 GB data to youths. There will be free WiFi in school and college campuses, he said. Claiming that the law and order situation had turned from bad to worse during the successive Samajwadi Party and Bahujan Samaj Party regimes, Shah said that for effective policing, the BJP, if voted to power, would recruit 1.5 lakh police constables from every section of society.



He also promised to shut down illegal slaughter houses in the state and prevent exodus of people from their villages due to communal tension. It is a fact that people have left their villages in large numbers owing to communal tension, Shah added. Keeping in view the demands for separate Bundelkhand and Poorvanchal, Shah said his party, if it came to power, would set up Poorvanchal Vikas Board and Bundelkhand Vikas Board to ensure development of the two backward regions. Shah also said his party would seek the opinion of Muslim women on triple talaq. The BJP president promised to set up six super speciality hospitals on the lines of AIIMS in different parts of the state.






The seven rebel MLAs of JD(S) will join Congress and would meet All India Congress Committee president Sonia Gandhi soon in this regard, Magadi MLA, H C Balakrishna has said.





Speaking to reporters here on Saturday, Balakrishna, one of the rebel MLAs, said that they have already held talks with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on joining Congress. We will soon proceed to Delhi to meet Sonia Gandhi. We will join Congress thereitself if we are promised a suitable position in the party, Balakrishna said. He said that some JD(S) members were planning to join BJP.



Another rebel MLA, N Cheluvarayaswamy had said that they wont seek JD(S) ticket to contest Assembly polls.


A special Lokayukta court on Saturday granted conditional bail to former Lokayukta Justice Y Bhaskar Rao in the corruption and extortion case. Lokayukta court judge D T Devendra granted bail to Justice Rao on condition that he does not influence the witnesses in the case.



The Special Investigation Team (SIT), which had probed the cases of extortion and corruption within the Lokayukta institution, had filed an additional charge sheet naming Justice Rao as an accused. Earlier, the SIT had filed the main charge sheet in the first case, pertaining to extortion and demanding bribe from M N Krishnamurthy, former executive engineer, zilla panchayat (Bengaluru Urban).



Justice Raos son Yerabati Ashwin and former Lokayukta public relations officer Syed Riyaz are the prime accused in this case. In the additional charge sheet, Justice Rao was named accused number seven in the case. The SIT has pressed charges of abetment, destroying of evidence and attempting to protect his son Ashwin, who ran the extortion racket from both the office and the residence of the Lokayukta. The special court directed Justice Rao to produce Rs 1 lakh bond and a surety.


Ameriabank: At the Vanguard of Armenia's Banking Sector

STATEMENT OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OF THE REPUBLIC OF ARTSAKH

SUBSCRIBERS OF UCOMS ALL TIME BEST OFFER TO ENJOY ADDITIONAL BENEFITS

Armenia-Azerbaijan: EU sets up monitoring capacity along the international borders

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PACE co-rapporteurs on Armenia concerned by reports of alleged war crimes or inhuman treatment perpetrated by Azerbaijans armed forces

There is still 35% gender pay gap: Sona Ghazaryan

Global Finance Names Ameriabank the Safest Bank in Armenia

Mikayel and Karen Vardanyans provided 136 million AMD support for the overhaul of the Myasnikyan statue, which was in unsafe state of disrepair

Believe me, as a representative of a country which uses the Schengen system very often, it is quite important. Vardanyan

I really look forward to having answers from the Azerbaijani side for these alleged gross human rights violations: Secretary General

I call on Armenian and Azerbaijani parliamentarians to use this Assembly as an agora of opportunities President Tiny Kox

UCOMS SPECIAL OFFER OF THE UNLIMITED INTERNET IS NOW TERMLESS

There is no place for the death penalty in a State that respects human rights: PACE General Rapporteur

EU and CoE call on two Member States that have not yet acceded to this Protocol  Armenia and Azerbaijan  to do so without delay

An urgent debate requested on "The military hostilities between Armenia and Azerbaijan".

UCOM AND PES-PES CONTINUE COOPERATION WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF EDUCATIONAL PROJECT

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The statement of the meeting between Prime Minister Pashinyan, President Aliyev, President Macron and President Michel of October 6, 2022

Largest Corporate Bond Program at the Securities Market of Armenia Completed Successfully

The statement of the Defender on the video of the execution of Armenian PoWs by the Azerbaijani armed forces

LEVEL UP ONLY FOR STUDENTS: UCOM OFFERS X2 AND X3 MORE INTERNET

STATEMENT BY SECRETARY ANTONY J. BLINKEN

This criminal act is another proof that the Armenophobia policy. Tatoyan

Nikol Pashinyan, Nancy Pelosi discuss a number of issues related to the Armenian-American agenda and regional developments

Delegation by Nancy Pelosi Accompanied by Alen Simonyan Visits Tsitsernakaberd Memorial Complex

Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi Arrives in Yerevan

Armenian Revytech, global technology leader SAP and financial services software specialist SAP Fioneer sign a cooperation agreement

With 120 million drams donated by Mikael Vardanyan, the defenders of the homeland will be treated in a new building

OSCE Chairman-in-Office and OSCE Secretary General call for immediate cessation of hostilities along Armenia-Azerbaijan border

Statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Artsakh
Three students representing Carmel Del Mar Elementary School recently received a perfect score in the first of three meets in this years WordMasters Challenge  a national vocabulary competition involving nearly 150,000 students annually.

Competing in the difficult Blue Division of the WordMasters Challenge, fifth graders Lucie Babcock and Ariana Kogan, and sixth grader Brinda Srinivasan each earned a perfect score of 20 on the challenge. Nationally, only 67 fifth graders and 26 sixth graders achieved this result. Other students from Carmel Del Mar Elementary School who achieved outstanding results in the meet include third graders Darko Dresevic and Bryan Huang.

The WordMasters Challenge is an exercise in critical thinking that first encourages students to become familiar with a set of interesting new words (considerably harder than grade level), and then challenges them to use those words to complete analogies expressing various kinds of logical relationships. Working to solve the analogies helps students learn to think both analytically and metaphorically. Although most vocabulary enrichment and analogy-solving programs are designed for use by high school students, WordMasters Challenge materials have been specifically created for younger students in grades three through eight. They are particularly well suited for children who are motivated by the challenge of learning new words and enjoy the logical puzzles posed by analogies.

The WordMasters Challenge program is administered by a company based in Indianapolis, Indiana, which is dedicated to inspiring high achievement in American schools. Further information is available at the companys website: www.wordmasterschallenge.com.
By Bryan Menegus

26 January 2017 (Gizmodo)  George Orwells dystopian classic, 1984, occupied the number one spot on Amazons best-selling books list yesterday, where it remains today. A cautionary tale about a brutal, amoral dictator has evidently felt relevant to people lately. But as of today, Amazonthe worlds largest bookselleris unable to keep up with demand. Currently 1984 is printed by Signet Classics, and both the hardcover and softcover versions are listed as temporarily out of stock. As CNN reported yesterday, Penguin (the parent company of the New American Library, Signets parent company) is racing to print more copies of Orwells novel. Under the Trump administration, quotes like, The object of torture is torture and, If you want a picture of the future, imagine a boot stamping on a human facefor ever must be resonating with people. Go figure. [more]
Home Four wheelers Japan Fines Mitsubishi Motors $4 Million Over Fake Data oi-Rajkamal

Japanese carmaker Mitsubishi has been fined $4 million over false fuel consumption data of several of its small cars. The fine was imposed by Japan on Friday.

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By Jake Tracy

Its been a tumultuous few days for anyone following the ongoing battle against the Dakota Access Pipeline. Within the course of just over a week, the projects backers tried to get a judge to cancel environmental review of the project, environmental review officially began and, on Jan. 24, President Trump issued a memorandum calling for the Army Corps of Engineers to ditch the Environmental Impact Statement process and approve the pipeline.

https://twitter.com/EcoWatch/status/823926956479676416

Things look bleak, but its unclear whether Trumps order will actually have any effect.

The exact wording of his statement is that the Army Corps of Engineers should consider, to the extent permitted by law and as warranted whether this environmental review should be canceled. Federal courts have previously ruled that agency decisions cannot be reversed simply because a new president is in power, so this order could just be a bunch of hot air.

Because the situation is so uncertain, however, anti-DAPL activists should prepare for both scenarios: one in which the pipeline plows forward in the coming weeks and months and one in which the full environmental review proceeds. If youre willing to take a stand in the streets and in the cold of North Dakota, why not take a few moments to put your concerns into writing?

If Trumps order is not legally actionable, now through Feb. 20 is the only chance we will have to push for a full review of the pipelines climate impacts. Consider that Trumps picks (and lack thereof) have not yet been appointed to the Army Corps. This means there may still be decision-makers on the inside who are committed to fully analyzing the project.

16,000 emailed & won rights to legal representation for Water Protectors. Now, we need emails of input on EIS  https://t.co/vHAmNju5Do pic.twitter.com/b97P4Z7fsj  Indigenous Environmental Network (@IENearth) January 27, 2017

How the EIS Process Involves the Public

As I explained in detail in a previous article, the environmental review process that has now begun is known as an environmental impact statement or EIS. This is a highly regimented form of review that is part of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). An EIS is required any time a federal action (including federal permit approval) will have significant environmental impacts. It requires a full, detailed analysis of those impacts, as well as an evaluation of how alternatives to the project as-proposed would lessen or heighten those impacts. Although the Army Corps originally issued a Finding of No Significant Impact for the DAPL, its Dec. 4 announcement reversed that decision, citing that additional review was needed.

A standard pipeline EIS proceeds as follows:

Notice of Intent (official announcement of the EIS) is issued.

Scoping Period (public input on which impacts and project alternatives should be studied).

Army Corps drafts EIS document.

Draft EIS is published, and the public is invited to comment (on whether the report is complete or which alternative is best).

EIS is modified based on public comment.

Final EIS is published (possibly with another comment period).

Army Corps decides whether or not to approve a permit for the pipeline crossing.

Though the EIS process itself cannot deny the pipeline, the environmental information gathered through the process can be used by the Army Corps to deny a permit if the project is injurious to the public interestin other words, if the projects impacts outweigh its benefits.

One problem with that is past EISs have only looked at environmental impacts to the immediate project site and surrounding area (in this case, the sliver of land that the Army Corps owns and Lake Oahe). On the other hand, the Army Corps will be weighing those spatially-limited impacts against the overall benefits of the project, such as jobs and tax revenue.

If this seems like an unequal comparison to you, now is your chance to speak up and say so.

The EIS Notice of Intent was published in the Federal Register on Jan. 18. During the 32-day scoping period that began simultaneously, the Army Corps is reaching out to the public for input on which environmental impacts should be studied within the EIS, and what the alternatives to Dakota Access preferred route should be. Unlike the second comment period, this first comment period is solely to decide what the scope of analysis should be.

What Kind of Impacts to Comment On

One of the most important impacts of the pipeline is the potential for oil spills into Lake Oahe and the Missouri River. However, spills are certain to be studied in the EIS and there will be ample opportunity to comment extensively on those impacts during the second comment period, once the draft EIS is published. That doesnt mean that the public shouldnt include spills in their scoping comments and the Standing Rock Sioux and their lawyers will certainly need to provide information on their water intakes, fishing rights, etc., but there are other important issues to tackle in this comment period as well.

It is virtually certain that without an overwhelming public push during the scoping notice, greenhouse gas emissions and climate change impacts will not be studied in the EIS.

In order to have the strongest argument possible when it comes to deciding if this project is injurious to the public interest, activists should, at this point, focus on expanding the scope of the EIS to cover the effect of the global greenhouse gas emissions that will result from the oil that will run through the pipeline.

If completed, up to 570,000 barrels of crude oil would flow through the DAPL every day. According to one estimate, utilizing data specific to the Bakken oil fields in North Dakota, the transportation, processing and burning of that oil would result in 101.4 million metric tons of CO2 every year. To put this in perspective, thats the same amount of annual emissions that would result from operating 21.4 million passenger vehicles or 29.5 coal plants.

The original Environmental Assessment (think: preliminary, mini-EIS) for the DAPL did not address climate issues at all, with merely a one sentence mention (The contribution of the Proposed Action to greenhouse gas emissions during construction would be considered a minor indirect impact to climate change). This ignoring of the projects larger impact is inconsistent the U.S. Council on Environmental Qualitys guidance for evaluating climate change under NEPA. This guidance, released in 2016, states that agencies should evaluate direct and indirect, long- and short-term and broad-scale effects of greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. Though the Army Corps has not yet updated their standards to match these, overwhelming public pressure might convince them to provide a full analysis of climate impacts from the pipeline.

Suggest the True No-Action Alternative

While inclusion of climate impacts in the EIS would set major precedent for pipeline projects going forward, in order for them to help the argument that the project is injurious to the public interest, an additional change to the EIS scope must be made.

Every EIS includes evaluation of alternatives to the proposed project. In addition to alternate routes for the pipeline, the project is also required to evaluate a no-action alternative, in which the pipeline is not built. Exactly how this no-action alternative is structured will play a critical role in how the proposed route under Lake Oahe is viewed, both in terms of local water quality impacts and global greenhouse gas impacts.

In the initial Environmental Assessment for the DAPL, the no-action alternative assumed that, if the pipeline was not built, the oil would be carried by rail and truck instead. As these methods of transportation are more dangerous and energy-intensive than pipeline transportation, the no-action alternative was written off as being worse than building the pipeline. The only problem with this is that earlier in that same report, it was noted that truck transportation of the oil was not  a realistic alternative and that transportation by rail would first require construction of a facility more than 150 percent of the size of the largest existing oil-by-rail facility in the U.S.

Creating a no-action alternative in which the oil is still transported by truck and rail, therefore, is unrealistic. The proposed project should be evaluated against a scenario where the oil is left in the ground due to the multiple financial, technological and logistical constraints that exist. This would mean that the proposed projects local and global impacts would be evaluated against a true no-action alternative, rather than one that looks worse than the proposal but is unrealistic in practice.

Wont Trump Just approve the Pipeline?

I wont lie to you. Even if the full environmental review of the pipeline takes place, by the time the review is complete, the secretary of the Army and assistant secretary of the Army for civil works, who oversee the Corps, will be Trump appointees. Its hard to imagine that anyone he appoints would be willing to rule on the side of the environment, regardless of the impacts. His Jan. 24 decree that future pipelines and other infrastructure projects should receive expedited environmental review doesnt bode well either.

So its true. Denial of the pipeline is a long-shot. But if the water protectors at Standing Rock have taught us anything, its that with enough public pressure, even a long-shot is possible. So if youre against the pipeline, this is the time to step up, not back down. As long as the public process is still in play, we should do everything we can to push back. We owe it to those who worked so hard to get us to where we are today.

Send your public comments by Feb. 20 to:

Mr. Gib Owen

gib.a.owen.civ@mail.mil

Subject Line: NOI Comments, Dakota Access Pipeline Crossing

Sample Comment:

Mr. Owen,

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Dakota Access pipeline crossing. I have grave concerns that the scope ignores key impacts that the Army Corps approval would cause, and that the no-action alternative, as proposed in the environmental assessment, does not constitute a realistic alternative.

The EAs no-action alternative assumes that, if the pipeline is not built, the oil will be transported by truck or rail instead. This argument is flawed, however. The EA itself points out on page 5 that truck transportation is not realistic, and goes on to state that rail transportation would require massive infrastructure investments, far larger than any currently existing in the United States. For these reasons, the no-action alternative should assume that the oil is not extracted, as there will be no realistic way to transport it to the intended markets.

Additionally, the Council on Environmental Quality has directed federal agencies to evaluate projects direct and indirect, long- and short-term, and broad-scale greenhouse gas and climate change impacts through the EIS process. Approving this crossing would complete the project, allowing a flow of oil that, when all is accounted for, would have the same annual CO2 emissions as 29 coal-fired power plants. These emissions would have a significant impact on air quality, water quality, human health, and wildlife, and would not occur if this pipeline crossing was denied. Please evaluate these impacts as part of your review, in accordance with the guidance provided by CEQ.

Finally, I support your decision to include a thorough analysis of the effects of an oil spill on Lake Oahe and the people of Standing Rock. Even the strictest precautions today will wear with age, as we have seen with other projects where poor maintenance led to disastrous results. The impacts of a spill on the local population and environment cannot be discounteda spill 30 years from now would be just as impactful as a spill on day one, and should be treated as a near-certainty in the requestors preferred alternative.

Thank you again, and I look forward to your inclusion of the projects full impacts, as well as a no-action alternative that takes into account the infeasibility of other forms of oil transportation.

Jake Tracy is an urban planner and environmentalist from Seattle. Reposted with permission from our media associate YES! Magazine.
By Freshet Collective

On Jan. 27, attorneys representing the first 10 water protectors arrested in actions against the Dakota Access Pipeline in early August 2016 renewed their motion for a change of venue, on grounds that the state did not adequately respond to the motion and is not taking basic steps to assess bias among jurors.

The requested change of venue would move the trials to a different county, outside the reach of negative media coverage and hostile community perception. The motion was filed on Jan. 19 and denied by North Dakota District Judge Cynthia Feland on Jan. 24, who claimed that a fair and impartial jury has already been impaneled and seated and that it would be nonsensical for the court to say it cannot be done.

The motion renewal filed Friday by North Dakota attorney Chad Nodland stated:

It appears that the states strategy is to simply delay discovery, charge people based on collective action and not individual acts which can be established by admissible evidence, and then hope for a conviction from a jury overwhelmingly biased towards law enforcement and the state.

A randomized survey conducted by the National Jury Project concluded it is highly likely that the more than 600 water protectors facing criminal charges in the coming months will not receive fair trials from petit jurors impaneled in Morton and Burleigh Counties. The survey found that 77 percent of the juror-eligible population in Morton County and 85 percent of the juror-eligible population in Burleigh County had already decided the defendants were guilty.

A substantial number of of the surveyed population have connections to law enforcement, the oil industry, landowners and others who have been affected by the protests.

Many respondents made statements indicating that they perceive protesters as a threat to community safety and described the water protectors as eco terrorists, criminals and idiots who hopefully all freeze to death.

https://twitter.com/EcoWatch/status/822491211877535744 come to intentionally commit crimes for political purposes and have North Dakota taxpayers pick up the tab.

The actions of county and city authorities have also contributed to an atmosphere of prejudice and fear in the general public. There have been reverse 911 calls to warn residents to avoid certain areas Morton County deemed unsafe due to prayer circles and demonstrations. Elected officials called for economic boycotts and advised local businesses to deny service to those they suspect connected with the Standing Rock encampments. North Dakota GOP lawmakers also introduced bills to crack down on demonstrators by restricting the use of face masks and protecting drivers from liability if they injure or kill a pedestrian obstructing traffic on a public road or highway.

Diane Wiley, president of the National Jury Project Midwest, said that most juror-eligible residents  have prejudged or at a minimum are negatively predisposed against the protestor defendants and that it is next to impossible to expect that jurors holding these attitudes and predispositions, and living in such an atmosphere, can impartially weigh the evidence in the cases. In Wileys 43 years of jury pool research, this is the only time she has found 100 percent recognition of the issues involved in a court case.
To build the largest and most complete Amateur Radio community site on the Internet - a "portal" that hams think of as the first place to go for information, to exchange ideas, and be part of whats happening with ham radio on the Internet. eHam.net provides recognition and enjoyment to the people who use, contribute, and build the site. This project involves a management team of volunteers who each take a topic of interest and manage it with passion. The site will stand above all other ham radio sites by employing the latest technology and professional design/programming standards, developed by a team of community programmers who contribute their skills to the effort. The site will be something of which everyone involved can be proud to say they were a part. We welcome your comments. The eHam.net Team, Revision 07/2020.
Microsoft scammers target Manx residents

Manx residents are being warned not to give remote access to their computers to people claiming to be from Microsoft.

The Isle of Man Constabulary says members of the public have been contacted by scammers seeking access to their PCs.

Officers warn these scammers will attempt to steal files or install malware allowing criminals to access bank account.

The caution is the latest in a string of recent warnings from the police about scammers targetting Manx residents.
One of the nominees at this year's Oscars will reportedly be unable to attend thanks to President Donald Trump's Muslim ban.

Asghar Farhadi, who directed and wrote Oscar-nominated film The Salesman, allegedly won't be at the Oscars this year due to President Trump's new executive order suspending Muslims from certain countries from entering the United States. Farhadi is from Iran, one of the countries banned.

Trita Parsi, leader of the National Iranian American Council, tweeted Saturday that Farhadi won't be able to attend the Oscars:

Confirmed: Iran's Asghar Farhadi won't be let into the US to attend Oscar's. He's nominated for best foreign language film...#MuslimBan  Trita Parsi (@tparsi) January 28, 2017

The countries listed as part of President Trump's Muslim ban includes Iran, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen. The suspension lasts for 90 days, "to ensure that those approved for refugee admission do not pose a threat to the security and welfare of the United States," says the order.

"We don't want them here," President Trump said at the signing of the order, discussing Islamic terrorists. "We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas. We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country, and love deeply our people."

Farhadi's film, The Salesman, is nominated for Best Foreign Language Film, where it will compete against Denmark's Land of Mine, Sweden's A Man Called Ove, Australia's Tanna and Germany's Toni Erdmann. It remains to be seen if a statement will be made at the Oscars regardless of whether Farhadi's The Salesman ends up winning.

Farhadi previously won this category before for his highly acclaimed 2011 film A Separation, which was also nominated for Best Original Screenplay.

The 89th Academy Awards will take place Sunday, Feb. 26, airing at 8:30 p.m. ET / 5:30 p.m. PT on ABC, with host Jimmy Kimmel.
The paper is the revised work presented at the Allied Social Science Association/International Association for Feminist Economics meeting held at Boston, US, 25 January 2015 and at the MIDS Seminar on 5 February 2015.

The authors are thankful to Shashanka Bhide and other participants of the conference and seminar for valuable comments and suggestions. They are also grateful to an anonymous referee for insightful and detailed comments.
For a twist on Chinas capital control theme, it will be interesting to watch the progress of Chinese IPOs in Hong Kong this year. The broker Guotai Junan Securities will present an interesting litmus test.

China has clamped down on capital outflows, most obviously in outbound M&A, but has been increasing the volume and the speed of domestic share sale approvals. But how about listings outside China? Just as China is promoting offshore bond issuance, it also seems to be sanguine about listings in Hong Kong. It appears that raising funds outside the motherland is fine; sending funds outside the motherland is not.

The most closely watched in the near term will be Guotai Junan, which enjoyed a spectacular domestic debut in Shanghai in June, rising 44% on its first day of trading (the maximum permitted). A draft prospectus filed in Hong Kong on January 19 confirmed Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Goldman Sachs, Guotai Junan Capital and SPDB International for a likely $2 billion H-share listing in the first half of 2017.

Pipeline

Guotai Junan follows a number of Chinese banks and securities firms into Hong Kong, most recently Jilin Jiutai Rural Commercial Bank, which raised HK$3 billion ($386 million) on January 6 (with Guotai Junan International as sole sponsor). Guangzhou Rural Commercial Bank is also in line for an IPO and lodged a prospectus in Hong Kong in January. Others in the pipeline may include China United Insurance and Ping An Securities.

Continued fervour for H-shares is, on the face of it, good news for international banks. The presence of BAML and Goldman on Guotai Junans H-share listing is in contrast to the A-share in June, where China Galaxy Securities, Huarong Securities, Ping An Securities, Huatai United Securities and Southwest Securities were the underwriters. Fees in the draft prospectus remain redacted, but generally a Hong Kong IPO still pays pretty well.

But even in Hong Kong it is not a certainty that internationals get on to the big deals. For Guangzhou Rurals IPO, which could raise as much as $1.5 billion, the joint sponsors are not Goldman or JPMorgan or Morgan Stanley but CICC, China Merchant Securities, CCB International and ABC International.

It used to be a rallying cry at Goldman that, no matter that Citic Securities had stolen its traditional spot in the upper tiers of investment banking fees, Goldman could still say it was on every billion dollar-plus IPO out of China; not this one, it would appear. At least Goldman is on Guotai Junan.

In any event, the main game this year will not be pure-play financials but Chinese fintechs. Ant Financial, if it comes, could be a record deal; if it does not, or if it goes to New York, the biggest Hong Kong IPO of the year is likely to be Lufax, Chinas peer-to-peer lending platform, backed by Ping An.

Reported bookrunners on that one, expected to raise up to $5 billion, are Citic Securities, Citi, JPMorgan and Morgan Stanley. Here, at least, the internationals still have a role to play.
Today's Oil Prices

As of Monday 30th January, the price of oil in US dollars is 52.895 (-0.15%). The price in British pounds is 42.213 and in euros is 49.44.

Trump has also planned to cancel all the environment-related policy of the previous Obama administration.

Along with this, the U.S. Energy Information Administration reported an increase of 2.8 million barrels in domestic crude-oil supplies for the week ended Jan. 20 beating analysts expectations.

EIA expects oil to remain below $60 per barrel through end-2018. Global production and consumption are both projected to increase through 2018, but consumption is expected to increase at a faster rate than production, the EIA said.

"The market is having to filter a lot right now: Keystone, Trump and OPEC issues," Tim Pickering, founder and chief investment officer of Auspice Capital Advisors Ltd. in Calgary, said by phone.

"OPEC adherence appears to be a lot better than anticipated," reports Bloomberg.

OPEC cuts production by 1.5 million barrels a day

On the bullish side, OPEC has reduced output by more than 1.5 million barrels a day from the proposed 1.8 million barrels a day.

Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Algeria have cut more than promised, however, a few other are yet to implement the production cuts according to their quotas.

According to Bloomberg, "Saudi Arabia, Algeria and Kuwait have already made deeper cuts than required, while Russia has been able to reduce supply faster than expected, ministers from the countries said as they arrived in Vienna on Saturday."

"Producers have already removed 1.5 million barrels a day from the market, according to Saudi Minister of Energy and Industry Khalid Al-Falih."

Kuwaiti Oil Minister Essam Al-Marzouk chaired a meeting of the committee which has been formed to monitor compliance.

The production data for January will come out on February 17 so we will look at the numbers and decide how committed everyone is," he said. "We will not accept any compliance rate other than 100 percent from all producers," reports Bloomberg.

With a mixture of bullish and bearish news, crude oil is likely to remain in a range until more clarity emerges.

Price of Oil: Impact on Central Bank and Currencies

BNP Paribas recently released a brief to clients focusing on the "spectre of protectionism".

The analysts highlight several points in relation to the oil price near-term influence:
Ok a little back ground may help in answering my questions.I am british but have lived in USA for over 16yrs. My husband is now a retired Police officer (hurt on the job so had to retire earlier than expected) We have 2 children 7 & 9. We are taking this curve ball that life threw at us and turning it into an adventure! All my family live in scotland so why not go there right?I know that the visa is written as one generic application to cover all but I'm have a little bit of confusion trying to fit it to my situation. Obviously i have enough proof of my relationship since we have been married and living together for over 15yrs now. So what evidence should i narrow it down tooWe will be using his Pension to meet our financial requirements (CAT E) i have read the form over and over and am probably confusing myself but it just seem like very little is needed compared to most!We need evidence from the pension company confirming pension entitlement and amountAt least one bank statement in the 12 month period prior to date of application showing payment of pension going into persons accountThats it...i know me over thinking no doubt but is that it? I feel like i missing something major!!So sorry if this is long ..i promise next time to be more direct!!
It depends on where you apply. If you apply in Vietnam, it takes about 2 weeks. In BKK, about the same.

You apply online by completing the Select Visa Type section:

Reason for Visit: Other

Visa Type: Others

Visa Sub-Type: Replacement Biometric Residence Permit

You should then complete the online form and submit it, pay for it, and make an appointment according to the local instructions for your nearest UK embassy or visa application centre.

You will need scans of your passport/visa and your original CAS statement. These scans, or the reference numbers they contain, may be required during the above processes. If you don't have them with you, send an email to your university asking them to send you a copy, plus student status letter to show you are a registered student.
Hi Folks.



So grateful a forum like this exists as I could really do with some help from soon-to-be fellow expats.



As a brief background, I'm from the UK and I met an Italian girl whilst on holiday. I'm self-employed, so I've been able to rent a very small apartment in Italy over the past year and spend a few weeks there every few months (cheaper than a hotel overall).



However, I've decided I'd now like to move there properly instead of frequent visits. This is because I would like to settle here, but I'm also driven by our impending EU exit. I'm just not sure how easy it would be to nip back and forwards once we leave and I don't want to take the risk.



I'm also keen to apply before the end of March when Article 50 is likely to start. I may be overly paranoid here, but I'm just worried that any residency applications made after Article 50 is triggered may run into issues later down the line (i.e. anyone who has came to the UK/EU past a certain date have to jump through additional hoops, but I just don't know when that date will be).



Anyway, I'm self-employed as previously mentioned, so my idea here is to set up a limited company in the UK, continue to pay business earnings into that (all clients are UK-based), and then pay myself a small salary in Italy which I'll be taxed on there. So I'll basically be employed by a UK company but working in Italy.



I've heard nightmares about setting up and running a small business in Italy as a self employed person, so I presume I'm wise to go down this route and avoid all that hassle?



But I'm worried about a few other things:



1). UK bank accounts, credit cards and debts - can I continue to use those? Do I have to inform them of my move? What could the risks be? I do have car finance. Things to do with my home in the UK are easier because I live with my parents.



2). Stock investments. I currently have a portfolio of shares in an ISA with Interactive Investor. Does anyone know what would happen to that, if anything? Do I have to inform them?



Also, how straightforward is the process of applying for residency in Italy as an EU national? I really want to get my residency card so I have that regardless of what happens with Brexit. There won't be any issues with me having had this apartment in Italy for the past year, will there? I've had a codice fiscale since then and it was registered to me when I started renting it, but I've only ever used it as a holiday home with frequent short visits.



If anyone can think of anything else I've overlooked, it would be appreciated. Thank you so much.



PS: I do intend to eventually move back to the UK in a few years, if that helps (and hopefully bring my Italian girl with me, but that's a whole new topic).
Hi



I am new to this forum. I have been offered a job in Johannesburg by an IT company and they are providing a fully furnished family accommodation + Car+ all utilities expenses paid . It will be just me and my wife.



What would be a right salary to demand after taxes . I understand taxes are high in SA. I have demanded a net salary of ZAR 40k to 50 k per month? Is this a good salary for a comfortable living in Johannesburg? How much I will be able to save ?



Thanks

RS
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San Antonio-based Mission Solar is undergoing another round of layoffs, just three months after a first round cost 87 workers their jobs.

When we started out, our primary target was the utility scale market, the very large 50-, 100-megawatt projects, and were pivoting to rooftops, or the consumer market, said Mission Solar spokeswoman Laura Waldrum. Were moving into that space which requires smaller orders and smaller projects.

Waldrum would not reveal the number of layoffs, and the Texas Workforce Commission said it did not yet have a Workforce Adjustment and Retraining Notification, also known as a WARN notice, available for release Friday.

After the first round of layoffs in October, when it shut down its solar cell production line, Mission Solar reported having 294 employees in San Antonio.

Foreign competition was one of the main driving factors for the shift to the consumer solar market, Waldrum said.

Low prices for solar cells and panels from Asian suppliers have driven down prices across the industry over the last few years. Chinese and Taiwanese companies have been accused in the past of dumping billions of dollars worth of solar products onto the U.S. market.

But in the consumer market, there is a demand for American-made products that is very distinct, and were also able to be a lot more competitive price-wise, she said.

Mission Solar has been a part of CPS Energys New Energy Economy initiative, which has sought to bring 1,000 new high-paying jobs to San Antonio by creating a base for renewable energy companies to move to San Antonio.

The solar company, along with parent South Korean-owned OCI Solar Power, has built at least 400 megawatts of solar arrays for CPS and is building another 50-megawatt array for the utility in West Texas.

CPS spokesman Paul Flaningan said Mission Solar has had some trouble competing with the global market, but that the New Energy Economy initiative is not threatened despite the two rounds of layoffs from its largest company.

The New Energy Economy is not just one company. Its made up of many partners that are working toward making San Antonio a more connected city and a cleaner and more renewable city, Flaningan said.

He said CPS is committed to working with Mission Solar as it tries to move forward in San Antonio.

This is one company focused on manufacturing modules here in San Antonio, and I think in this specific industry theyve run into some market challenges, Flaningan said. I think what theyre doing to restructure and reshift their business model is the right thing to do to remain viable in San Antonio.

Waldrum said Mission Solar is working to repay tax abatements that the company has received from the city in a deal it inherited when OCI Solar Power bought out another solar company, Nexolon America.

That agreement included a pledge to create and maintain 404 full-time jobs by 2023.

Voter Guide: What to know for the midterm election Your guide to the Texas and San Antonio races and candidates on the Nov. 8 ballot.

I was disappointed to learn of (Mission Solar Energys) workforce reductions, but I am confident that our clawback provision will allow us to appropriately recover public funds invested, Mayor Ivy R. Taylor said in an emailed statement. I also understand that CPS Energy is going to continue to work with Mission Solar as part of its diversified energy portfolio. Energy is a volatile industry, and technological change has negatively impacted this company, but Im proud that San Antonios overall economy is booming.

rdruzin@express-news.net

@druz_journo
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San Antonios Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program has the largest force of volunteer certified tax preparers in the U.S., providing free filing services for people who earn less than $60,000 a year, according to local officials.

There may not be a free lunch, but there is free tax assistance, U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-San Antonio, said during a Friday kickoff event at one of the VITA sites, the YWCA at 503 Castroville Road.

The San Antonio-based program has 345 certified tax preparers at 18 walk-in sites, plus one in Fredericksburg. The program is in the process of training 541 more volunteers for certification. Additional volunteers are awaiting training.

J. Antonio Fernandez, Catholic Charities CEO and president, said 1,148 total volunteers have been recruited so far and more are sought. As new volunteers become certified, they will join the sites as the income tax season advances to its April 18 filing deadline.

VITA is operated by several supporting organizations, including Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of San Antonio Inc., the city Department of Human Services and the United Way of San Antonio & Bexar County.

More Information What to bring Income tax individual and family filers with 2015 incomes of $60,000 or less must bring the following items to VITA sites for free tax-filing services: Photo identity Social Security cards or individual tax identification numbers for all family members All W-2 forms Copy of prior-year returns, if applicable All 1099 forms, if applicable More information If filing jointly, spouses must be present to review and sign completed tax return forms. VITA sites and operating hours are listed online at www.vitasa.org and by telephone at 211. Source: VITA sponsors See More Collapse

VITA was started by the Internal Revenue Service more than 40 years ago, but the agency turned the program over to local communities in 2001. Volunteers have to meet IRS training requirements.

Brooklyn, New York, has a larger VITA program, but it pays some of its preparers. San Antonios VITA deploys the largest number of unpaid volunteers, local officials said.

Last year, the San Antonio VITA program filed 44,000 income tax returns that resulted in more than $60 million in refunds and credits, the sponsors announced Friday.

The VITA program saved local residents an estimated $8 million in tax-preparation fees last year.

Of the $60 million in refunds, $24 million of that were earned income tax credits to low-income families with children. Many people who qualify for the earned income tax credit and other tax relief dont need to pay federal taxes, but those tax credits often are overlooked, said Mayor Pro Tem Mike Gallagher.

A lot of people dont know about it, Gallagher said. That money goes back into the city of San Antonio.

VITA volunteers processed 34,331 tax returns in 2015, resulting in $55 million in refunds and credits that year, officials said.

The VITA site at St. Philips College, in Room 110 of the Bowden Building at 1801 Martin Luther King Drive on the East Side, historically is VITAs top-producing site. In 2016, the site processed 4,568 returns, resulting in $8.7 million in refunds and credits.

St. Philips College also serves as one of three VITA sites that processes business tax returns.

Nationally, the IRS expects to process 153 million tax returns this year. The deadline is April 18, a Tuesday, instead of the traditional April 15, because April 15 falls on a Saturday and Emancipation Day, a legal holiday in Washington, D.C., will be observed on Monday, April 17.

Last year, the IRS issued almost 111 million refunds, about 73 percent of all returns. The average refund last year was $2,857.

Voter Guide: What to know for the midterm election Your guide to the Texas and San Antonio races and candidates on the Nov. 8 ballot.

Early filers seeking EITC or child tax credit refunds may experience a delay this year, the IRS announced this month. To make it easier for the IRS to detect and prevent refund fraud, Congress passed a law recently that requires the agency to hold refunds on those credits until Feb. 15. EITC and child tax credit filers likely wont be able to access their refunds from their banks before the weekend of Feb. 27 because of the Presidents Day holiday and weekends, the IRS has warned.

All taxpayers can check the status of their refunds online at IRS.gov using the Wheres My Refund tool.

VITA operates two year-round income tax clinics that prepare prior-year returns and amendments by appointment only.

The Catholic Charities Guadalupe Community Center at 1801 W. Cesar E. Chavez Blvd. prepares individual taxpayer identification numbers for individuals who do not have a Social Security number but need an ITIN to prepare their taxes.

Like the previous two years, VITA will offer an express service option, which allows qualified tax filers to drop off their forms and information at five sites for processing within 48 to 72 hours.

VITA volunteers also will be available to organizations, senior centers and apartment complexes on request for mobile, on-site service. The volunteer preparers will bring their equipment and will need space for several computers and electrical outlets. Organizations can call 210-222-2975 to arrange it.

dhendricks@express-news.net
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Two prominent peace activists criticized President Donald Trump and expressed strong doubts that he would be able to improve U.S. foreign policy over the next four years during a talk at the University of the Incarnate Word on Friday night.

Ann Wright, a retired Army colonel and former U.S. diplomat, and Medea Benjamin, a human rights advocate, spoke about what to expect from Trumps foreign policy agenda, drawing an audience of about 60 people.

This guy is no peacemaker, if anybody had any illusions, Benjamin said of Trump. This guy is so erratic.

Friday nights panel followed several tense days for the Trump administration.

After moving forward with the construction of a wall on the southern border and calling for a 20 percent tax on imports from Mexico, the Mexican president canceled a planned visited to the United States. This week Trump also announced plans to crack down on sanctuary cities, threatening to withhold federal funding from cities that do not cooperate with immigration officials. And on Friday, the president signed executive orders temporarily blocking refugees and visitors from a handful of Muslim-majority nations from entering the country, and indefinitely suspending the entrance of Syrian refugees.

Wright is best known for publicly resigning from her post at the U.S. State Department in protest of the 2003 invasion of Iraq, and she has opposed the countrys occupation since then. She received the Award for Heroism in 1997 for her efforts evacuating thousands of people during Sierra Leones civil war.

Benjamin has been an activist for more than four decades and is the recipient of several peace awards. She is the co-founder of the womens peace group CODEPINK and human rights organization Global Exchange. In 2012, Benjamin was arrested and deported while taking part in a human rights delegation in Bahrain.

Both Wright and Benjamin have been arrested while participating in anti-war demonstrations. Their records led to them being denied entry to Canada in 2007 for being included in the National Crime Information Center, a FBI database.

Benjamin condemned many of Trumps policies, including his promises to revive U.S. military forces. Those efforts would further reinforce the countrys military industrial complex and encourage the money-making business of war, she said.

Rather than banning refugees, Benjamin suggested that the U.S. distance itself from Saudi Arabia for its role in supporting extremist groups.

We hardly took in any refugees at all to begin with, she said.

Benjamin concluded her comments by encouraging people to join the resistance movement building against Trump and his policies, starting with last weeks womens marches across the country and internationally.

Certainly it is a dark time, Benjamin said. But it can also be the dawn of a very progressive movement.

As a former diplomat with the State Department, Wright predicted that many resignations similar to hers were forthcoming, adding that the persecution of whistleblowers were likely to continue under Trump.

We need to watch out, Wright said. We need to listen.

Additionally, she said that Trump should work on smoothing tensions with foreign rivals, an effort that would include working with North Korea to broker a peace treaty in northeast Asia. After all the talk about Russian hacking and influence on the election, Wright said the president needed to talk with Vladimir Putin.

We got to talk to them about what is happening, and weve got to reduce these tensions, she said.

After helping organize some of the womens marches, graphic designer Monica Velasquez said she wanted to learn more about foreign policy and its local impact.

Im glad I came, Velasquez, 37, said. Things like this, where we learn from each other, is really important.

Jovanni Reyes, a local activist and event organizer, said foreign policy usually takes a back seat to discussions over domestic issues in the U.S. Though San Antonio has a strong military presence, he said war remains an abstract concept to the vast majority of Americans.

lcaruba@express-news.net
Shilo Harris was in the third of four Humvees south of Baghdad when a massive explosion ripped through the truck, killing three soldiers and enveloping him in flames. He was still conscious  somehow  as bullets flew in all directions.

Deafened by the blast, he couldnt hear the ammunition going off.

Nobody would tell me on the ground where my soldiers were, said Harris, 42, of Adkins. I finally asked the doctor as they were getting me cleaned up and cutting my clothes off and getting me prepped.  Can you please tell me where my friends are? And he said, Youll find out in a couple of months.

That was about right. Harris awoke from a coma around 50 days later in San Antonio to learn that his three soldiers were dead. He soon learned just how fortunate he was. Not only did he survive despite burns over a third of his body, but hed get back on his feet with the help of experts at a new, revolutionary medical complex: the Center for the Intrepid, which marked its 10th birthday Friday.

The center provides rehabilitative care for troops whove lost limbs or suffered severe burns, blindness or head injuries. A crowd of 500 who braved a chilly day for ceremonies was smaller than the 3,000 who watched its grand opening Jan. 29, 2007. Some were stunned that a decade had passed.

Thats what everybody says, the first CFI chaplain, former Capt. Roger Bryan van Pelt, told Harris. How can this be? Its been 10 years!

In that way, the anniversary also was a reunion. Harris saw Van Pelt, now a middle school English teacher at Harlandale Alternative Center, and ran into Bobbie Henline, a GI also badly wounded in 2007 who launched a new career as a stand-up comic after his rehabilitation stint at CFI.

New York real estate developer Arnold Fisher, who led a campaign that saw 600,000 people contribute $50 million to fund construction of the CFI, took stock.

I can only speak for myself. I love this country, he said.  Ive been very lucky in this country, and this country has given me and my family a great deal. And so its time to pay back. I do this because I need to pay back for the privilege of being an American.

CFI was badly needed when it opened a few weeks before Harris was brought to Fort Sam Houston to begin an arduous recovery that would last years. The lightning invasion of Iraq had long since morphed into a bitter counterinsurgency operation. In all, the war would leave 4,513 U.S. troops dead over the years and 32,203 wounded, according to the Iraq Coalition Casualty Count.

The signature weapon of the war was the improvised explosive device, or IED. Troops hit by buried roadside bombs often were badly burned and suffered amputations. Harris lost his ears, his left index finger and both pinkies. Henline suffered burns to a third of his body and lost part of his left arm.

More wounded streamed home as the war cooled off in Iraq and heated up in Afghanistan. Hundreds took advantage of devices such as a treadmill mounted on an 18-foot circular platform, projecting images onto a 360-degree screen to create the illusion of motion and help specialists adjust artificial limbs.

The Army said 1,703 troops injured in combat have suffered amputations since 9/11. Of those, 681 had been treated at CFI through Sept. 28. Appointments at the rehab center rose from 19,695 in its first year to a high of 48,824 in 2011. They fell to 29,361 in the fiscal year that ended Sept. 30.

Fewer patients at CFI these days are recovering from war wounds. Marine Lt. Col. Brian Forney, who was on hand for Fridays ceremony, lost his left arm and suffered burns when his CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter crashed in Thailand on a training mission nearly four years ago. He now commands Wounded Warrior Battalion East Detachment here and will retire this year.

At the very core of the third floor is a gym, said Forney, 41, of San Antonio. It is a gym thats got access to all of the prosthetics development and fabrication, its got access to the research. The occupational therapy, physical therapy is all in one place, which brings you to the people. The people that staff this place are absolutely phenomenal. Its a great building, but it would be an empty shell without the people who work here.

Fishers Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund had been supporting the families of troops killed on duty since 1982, but it shifted its focus more than a decade ago after Congress increased life insurance for military families. The Armys surgeon general at the time suggested the rehab center at Fort Sam. To help families stay close, a pair of 21-room Fisher Houses would be built.

But CFI was only the beginning. It was followed by the National Intrepid Center of Excellence in Bethesda, Maryland, for patients with traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder. Five smaller Intrepid Spirit centers are up and running elsewhere, and two more are in the works.

The Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund has raised more than $200 million.

I could probably write a book  from the letters that I have received from families of soldiers and Marines and sailors that have come back, said Fisher, 84, a former Army corporal who arrived in South Korea four days after the war ended in 1953. I got a nine-page letter from a woman who thanked me for allowing their children to have their father back.

sigc@express-news.net
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SEGUIN  Saying the anticipated long-term benefits outweigh the potential financial risks, Guadalupe County commissioners have voted to accept a second federal grant, of $6.63 million, to fund the elevation of up to 27 flood-prone homes.

The county already is managing a similar Federal Emergency Management Agency grant of $12.2 million authorized in 2015 to raise as many as 42 local homes that have a history of severe, repetitive losses from flooding.

Work is finished on eight homes, commissioners were told, but cost overruns make it unlikely that all 42 will be raised.

I think its gone really well, County Judge Kyle Kutscher said.

Isaac and Carmen Garcia, whose Lakeside Drive home flooded five times since they moved there in 1987, are among those enjoying a new peace of mind living higher off the ground.

I feel much safer, Carmen Garcia said from the deck of the two-story home, now on stilts 16 feet 8 inches tall, which they reoccupied Jan. 1 after four months of work by the contractor, Arkitektura Development Inc.

Isaac Garcia marveled at how workers tunneled under the foundation by hand, then installed jacks to incrementally lift the estimated 225-ton house, carefully inserting wooden blocks for temporary support as it rose.

The flood mitigation grant covered the entire $201,000 cost of elevating the house, but the Garcias say they paid to install an elevator-style lift to reach their front door in the treetops.

At first, its really strange said Isaac Garcia, 68. Then you get used to it and its not high any more.

Elevating the residences protects the lives and property of occupants, Kutscher said, while also lowering the flood insurance premium for the owners and raising the appraised value of the property, which translates into more revenue for local taxing entities.

However, he noted, non-compliance with the complicated grant program requirements could expose the county to demands by FEMA or the Texas Water Development Board, which disperses the federal funds, for repayment of grant money.

Were getting past our level of comfort with the amount of risk, said Kutscher, noting the combined two grants nearly matches the countys total reserve fund balance of about $20 million.

Saying the risk already was too high, Commissioner Judy Cope dissented on Tuesdays vote to approve the contract with FEMA on the second grant, which requires a local match of $797,000, for a total project cost of $7.43 million.

The grants are good, she said, but added, It does give me heartburn that were going to obligate the whole county (if any part of the grant needs to be repaid).

Since it inherited responsibility for dispersing FEMA grants in Texas in 2008, the Water Development Board has allocated $126 million for flood mitigation programs and $99 million more for sites with a record of severe losses from flooding, an agency spokesperson said.

In fiscal 2016, the agency sought $98.8 million of the $199 million in FEMA funds available nationwide for the program, and received $49.3 million.

Shelly Coleman, the countys environmental health department director, told commissioners the 10 percent local match required for the new grant will come from participating property owners. A yet-to-be-hired grant administrator, whose pay comes out of the grant, will help the county administer it.

Coleman told commissioners that participating homeowners are required to maintain flood insurance on the elevated properties, even if they change hands.

She said the original grant funds arent going as far as anticipated. We are going to be a little short in lifting all 42 homes, said Coleman, who did not respond to interview requests after the meeting.

Carmen Garcia said those in line for the grant funding shouldnt be in a rush.

The county was wonderful, but it took a long time, she said Tuesday. Whenever you deal with the government, its always hurry up and wait.

zeke@express-news.net
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A veneer of collegiality began to wear thin Friday as mayoral contenders Ron Nirenberg and Manuel Medina laid out their cases of why voters should install them in office over incumbent Ivy Taylor.

The two faced off at a candidate forum hosted by Morningside Ministries at The Meadows, a retirement community on the near-Northwest Side, where they traded barbs over each others statements about plans to move San Antonio forward.

Taylor wasnt expected to attend at all, as she was scheduled for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the San Antonio Water Systems new desalination plant in southern Bexar County. But she arrived at the living facility early and mingled with residents before making a brief statement about her tenure as mayor and plans for a next term.

Chairman of the Bexar County Democratic Party and a wealthy Dominion resident, Medina struck a populist tone in his own introduction. While he has spoken out vigorously against actions taken by President Donald Trump, Medina shares a similar rhetorical style with the New York real estate mogul  often making sweeping, hyperbolic statements and sometimes speaking about himself in the third person.

Im running for mayor because we need to make a difference. We keep hearing about the 1 million people coming to San Antonio for the next 25 years, about their needs and their infrastructure, he said. Well, how about the 1.5 million that already live here today? How about our streets? How about our transportation? How about our security? How about our jobs? We need solutions for today, and I have a vision for today, and Im ready to lead.

Nirenberg said he agrees with Medina on a number of points, including that we need new leadership in this city.

Though they share a common goal of ousting Taylor from the corner office at City Hall, their paths diverge from there. While Medina embraces his roots in the Democratic Party, Nirenberg has maintained a nonpartisan, though progressive, stance on local issues.

I think when people run, they should be straightforward with you and tell you what their core beliefs are, Medina said. And theres nothing wrong with being a Democrat, independent or Republican. They just need be straightforward with you. Im a proud Democrat.

Theres a long-standing tradition in San Antonio to keep party politics out of the nonpartisan municipal races. And while Nirenberg and Taylor have continued to eschew political affiliation, Medina has embraced it  and opened the door for partisanship in the mayoral race.

Im running for mayor because I want to leave San Antonio a better place than I found it, Nirenberg said. I didnt come from a political pedigree, I didnt come from a political family, and in fact, Im not part of a political party. But what drives me every day is going to work for the betterment of our entire city.

And the District 8 councilman said he strongly disagrees with Medina on planning for the future. Nirenberg has been an outspoken supporter of several local planning initiatives to ensure San Antonio is positioned to handle its growth in population and size  and commensurate infrastructure  in the coming quarter-century.

Both candidates prioritized addressing traffic congestion. In fact, before he even formally introduced himself, Nirenberg told the audience that a consistent complaint from residents across all corners of San Antonio is about gridlock. Left unaddressed, he said, the average commute time will increase by 75 percent in the coming years.

Medina promised a solution.

Manuel Medina will be the transportation mayor, he said. First, were going to take the top 50 corridors in the city and improve drive times by 10 percent in my first five months.

Medina also promised to insert himself into a leadership position with the Lone Star Rail District to complete a commuter rail line between San Antonio and Austin. Once that is completed, Medina promised to get to work on constructing a rail line between the Alamo City and Monterrey, Mexico.

But Mike Frisbie, director of the citys Transportation and Capital Improvements Department, said in an interview that San Antonio has already developed and optimized a sophisticated traffic-signal system that has already made double-digit improvements along major corridors.

To further decrease drive times by 10 percent would require various solutions, including adding left-turn-only lanes to intersections. The city is continually doing such projects, but theyre costly and time-consuming, Frisbie said, and could not be completed in a five-month window.

For his part, Nirenberg said theres broad consensus that a rail line connecting San Antonio and Austin would be good for the two cities and the corridor connecting them.

The trouble is weve been planning one for 22 years, he said, noting nothing has been accomplished. Officials have basically disbanded the Lone Star Rail District. Nirenberg said the line would get accomplished when it becomes a priority for Gov. Greg Abbott.

Local officials throughout the corridor are working on that initiative, and others, Nirenberg said. Medina, whod talked about San Antonio losing out to other area cities on issues such as job creation, warned about collaboration  a comment reminiscent of Trumps inauguration speech.

Yes, we need to work together, he said. But we need to look out for San Antonio first.

jbaugh@express-news.net
As their fears that President Donald Trump would target immigrants coming from Muslim countries became real Friday, many area refugees were trying their best not to be noticed.

They find themselves shying away from strangers and avoiding large public spaces.

Im just trying to give my family the best place (away) from the war, guns and crazy people, said a man from Syria who is in Texas legally, with a visa, but declined to give his name Friday. Now we have fears that we can be deported at any time.

Several students who attend citizenship classes at the Center for Refugee Services on the Northwest Side also were afraid to give their names, even though they also are here legally.

Center director Margaret Costantino sought to reassure her students, who come from Chad, Iraq, Iran and Cameroon.

You have freedom of speech, which means we can speak freely, she told them. You have the right to petition the government, to tell the government what you want them to do. Because we the people are the government.

But many refugees who came to the U.S. seeking safe haven worry that they wont have a chance to become citizens or, worse, will still be treated as outsiders even if they do become citizens.

Friday, Trump signed executive orders that call for a 90-day ban on all people from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen seeking to enter the U.S., along with a 120-day suspension of the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program, under which San Antonio has welcomed more than 8,000 people since 2004. In his order, Trump directed that when the program is reinstated, it would allow nationals only from countries that his Cabinet deems can be properly vetted.

Costantino has said she considers refugees as her neighbors and believes that the U.S. is stronger for its diversity.

Whatever we can do to help them become more self-sufficient is a benefit for the whole city, she said. They become taxpayers, they take care of families better and have less reliance on public benefits. I think thats a win-win situation.

In her citizenship class, Costantino talks about the right of U.S. citizens to vote for the candidates of their choice. She said, for example, that she knows Iraqi Americans who voted for Trump.

You have an obligation to be a good citizen. This is a very important time for all of us (to) think of how we want to help the country, Costantino told her students, who listened intently. Sometimes you have to go through the dark night to see the light, and maybe there are bad times, but we dont give up and in the next few years things will start to get better, but dont stop trying.

Not all refugees are afraid to be out in public.

Just 15 months ago, Ali Al Qubtan, 34, was a human resources officer working with the U.S. military in Iraq. Then the death threats came. One night, special visas in hand, he gathered his wife and son, said goodbye to relatives and traveled to America to find refuge and a new life.

After working three jobs here, hes found a good position and some stability, and he willingly talks about his experiences. He acknowledged that comments made by Trump about Muslims when he was on the campaign trail and now as president are worrisome.

Its the talk of the hour and topic of the last few months, Al Qubtan said at the Center for Refugee Services. I have mixed feelings. Hes the president in charge. But for me, instead of protests, people should step up to help each other. I dont agree with everything hes doing, but I hope hes doing the best for the country.

Ashraf Nahil, owner of Ali Baba International Food Market on the Northwest Side, said his store serves a wide range of customers including Muslims, Jews, Christians and Buddhists. At his market, at 9307 Wurzbach Road, the aromas of spices and fresh vegetables waft through the market as customers pore over shelves filled with produce and products from their countries of origin.

People of many nationalities come from all over South Texas to shop at Ali Baba. Aziza Taha and her husband, who now live in Laredo, visit the market once a month to shop for traditional foods and other items.

In business for 20 years, Nahil hears a wide range of views from his customers. Recent talk from longtime San Antonio residents and newcomers alike has revolved around Trump and what the new presidents action will mean for immigrants.

Nahil said he came to San Antonio from Kuwait as a student in 1987. He said San Antonio is his home and that he cant imagine going back to the land of his birth.

The new people in the United States, theyre kind of scared because of rumors, said Nahil, 48. I dont think anything crazy will happen. There are steps in place so nothing major will go on. I think everybody is in between shock or waiting for something to happen.

vtdavis@express-news.net
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With a burst of confetti and the drop of a curtain, the San Antonio Water System unveiled its latest accomplishment, a plant that turns salty groundwater into pure drinking water.

Technically, water from the plant on Hardy Road in South Bexar County began flowing to SAWS customers in November, but the utility picked Friday to publicly show off the plant that can supply up to 4.4 billion gallons per year, enough for 100,000 households.

The plant is the second-largest desalination plant in Texas, after El Pasos, and an important accomplishment for SAWS, which has for 20 years been focusing on bringing online more water supplies from sources other than the drought-prone and contested Edwards Aquifer.

Right here in our region, we have billions and billions of gallons of brackish water that is unused and has been unusable, said SAWS board Chairman Heriberto Berto Guerra Jr. SAWS has tapped into the water supply of the future.

Texas Water Development Board Chairman Bech Bruun called SAWS a true leader for the state, especially as the the 85th Texas Legislature convenes after two years of frequent flooding across central and eastern Texas.

When the lakes are full, water tends to get pushed further down the list, Bruun said. SAWS and San Antonio never think that way.

With the desalination plant operating, SAWS now controls three water supplies from one central hub, including its Carrizo freshwater wells and the underground water bank known as Aquifer Storage and Recovery. SAWS changed the facilitys name from Twin Oaks to H2Oaks.

Its going to give us more opportunity because brackish water is an unlimited supply and its drought-proof, said SAWS plant manager Roberto Macias, who will help operate the facility. And theres no competition for brackish water.

At the heart of the plant are racks of cylindrical pipes holding membranes that filter out salts as water is forced through them at high pressure. Next to that are a control room full of computer screens and two laboratories, one for water quality testing and one as a guest research laboratory for university students.

Many of SAWS guests Friday remarked on the thought that went into the symbolism of the design.

At the entrance, SAWS used sandstone and limestone blocks to evoke the two types of rock that supply San Antonios groundwater. Light fixtures are meant to look like rain drops and ceiling panels like clouds. Around the desalination membranes, interpretive displays built into the floor and windows show visitors where water enters and exits the system and the injection wells where leftover brine is pumped back underground.

SAWSs next challenge will be scaling up the plant over the next decade. The utility hopes it will produce up to 11 billion gallons per year of desalinated water by 2026 but lacks permits for the final 2.2 billion gallons from the neighboring Evergreen Underground Water Conservation District.

bgibbons@express-news.net,

Twitter: @bgibbs
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Three months ago, Manuel Medina was agitating for San Antonio to turn itself into a sanctuary city and officially declare itself one.

On Friday, he asserted that San Antonio is a sanctuary city.

Rather than an actual change in the citys status, though, the mayoral candidates remarks reflect the arbitrariness of the term itself, an important quality to keep in mind as President Donald Trump sets his destructive sights on so-called sanctuary cities.

This week, Trump signed an executive order to withhold grants from local governments that dont comply with a law requiring police to communicate with immigration agents.

Thats a narrow interpretation of a sanctuary city.

Under that definition, San Antonio is certainly not one, because both Police Chief William McManus and Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar cooperate with immigration officials.

In October, Medina was pushing the City Council to create a written policy designating San Antonio an official sanctuary city. (Medina is chairman of the Bexar County Democratic Party; he announced last month that hes running for mayor.)

At the time, Medina acknowledged the flexibility of the term: Each city defines what a sanctuary city is to them, he said.

Medina and other members of the San Antonio Sanctuary Movement had three demands: make permanent the San Antonio Police Departments informal immigration policies; stop adhering to a federal program known as Secure Communities; and appoint an immigrant commission to advise the mayor on immigration issues.

The city assented to the first demand.

The police department updated its General Manual to prohibit police officers from asking individuals their immigration status or arresting anyone for being undocumented.

The change merely made these policies official; under McManus, officers already were prohibited from taking these actions. (To anti-immigration groups, this fact alone makes San Antonio a sanctuary city.)

Medinas second demand was misguided.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement already had discontinued its controversial Secure Communities program, replacing it with a less draconian model: the Priority Enforcement Program.

Under PEP, immigration authorities prioritize the immigrants it seeks to transfer from county jails: only convicted criminals and people who threaten public safety and national security.

At the time, Medina alleged that the city had not gotten in line with the new guidelines. But PEP was automatic and not dependent on the discretion of local officials.

Trumps order this week scrapped PEP and brought back Secure Communities, which would notify ICE whenever someone who has a record with the immigration agency is arrested.

Salazar, who took office in January, told me, Im just always going to follow the law. If Im required to do something by law, Im going to do it.

He added that the sheriffs office and immigration authorities would work together.

Medinas third demand  the creation of an immigrant commission  has not been met. And fortunately, the city has not officially declared itself a sanctuary city.

On Friday, after Medina spoke at a mayoral forum, I asked if he still believed San Antonio should declare itself an official sanctuary city.

Well, we are a sanctuary city, he replied. Whether you call us a sanctuary city or a welcoming city, Im going to make sure that we stand up for our Christian values. That means protecting good people and deporting bad people.

Mayor Ivy Taylor, at least, seems to recognize the subjectivity of the term  and how unnecessary it would be to apply such a politically charged label to the city.

The term Sanctuary City does not enhance, nor does it impair, SAPDs commitment to protecting each and every citizen of San Antonio, she wrote in a Jan. 26 memo to the City Council and City Manager Sheryl Sculley.

Mayors across the nation have chosen to move past the rhetoric and focus our efforts on public safety, she continued. Here in San Antonio, while we do not use the term to describe our policies, SAPD does not question the immigration status of individuals. SAPD works to cultivate an environment where everyone will feel comfortable seeking the assistance of law enforcement if needed.

bchasnoff@express-news.net
Unlike the past two years when Mother Nature turned on baking hot and wet and wild weather, this year's auction took place in near-perfect conditions, which set the scene for all but one lot of the 656 head yarded PTIC heifers and cows and unmated heifers, to be snapped up under the hammer by discerning cattlemen from throughout the State.
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The Harry Potter series is one of the most popular in the world, with many an iconic actor stepping into various roles in the movie adaptations of J. K. Rowlings fantasy novels. One of those men is Jason Isaacs who plays villainous character Lucius Malfoy, but he almost never became a part of the franchise.

Jason Isaacs as Lucius Malfoy

Giving an interview at the Harry Potter Celebration in Universal this weekend, the actor spoke about his early days auditioning for the fantasy series and how he was close to rejecting the offer of playing Lucius Malfoy.

He explained: I auditioned for Gilderoy Lockhart and I was a little bit disappointed in the room when Chris [Columbus] asked me, Did you read the whole script? I said yes. Would you mind reading as Malfoy? [I said,] Ugh, sure.

Then I ran outside and called my agent immediately. I said, They want me to go back in and read a different part. I dont want to do it. He said, Just go in and read it. You dont have to take the job. I said, I dont want to play another bad guy. Im about to go off and play Captain Hook. Im really not interested in doing it. He said, Just go in and do it. You never know what will happen down the road.

I went in and I read it as Malfoy and I found out they offered it to me a week later. I told my agent, Tell them no. Thanks very much. I appreciate it. He [said], Take the weekend and think about it. I [said], Its just too similar to Captain Hook and another guy. He gave me the weekend and my nephews called and my godchildren called. And then every child I knew and their parents called and told me that I had to do it. Not because they cared about my career but because they wanted to visit the set, I think. So I took the job, and thank God I did.

Though it would be super interested for Potter fans to see what Isaacs would make of the Gilderoy Lockhart role, its hard to imagine any other actor taking on the Malfoy patriarch and giving as good a performance as him.

by Daniel Falconer for www.femalefirst.co.uk

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The state government of Madhya Pradesh will soon bring out a special policy to encourage garment industry in the state. In the last one decade, the state has emerged as one of the hubs of textile industry in India owing to industry-friendly policy of the state government. The state has also made long term planning to increase electricity production.

A special policy is being brought soon to encourage garment industry in the state, Madhya Pradesh minister for commerce, industry, employment, mineral resources and overseas Indians Rajendra Shukla said at the 14th International and 72nd All India Textile Conference. Over 300 representatives of the textile industry participated in the conference organised by The Textile Association (India)  MP Unit, in Bhopal. With the theme Shape India  Shape Textile, the conference covered whole gamut of cotton, textiles and apparel industry.

Madhya Pradesh has all facilities needed to set up industries, said Shukla. He said that the state has around 1,000 acre land bank in all the districts to establish industries. He added that electricity, water, transport and other facilities like good roads are also available.

The state government of Madhya Pradesh will soon bring out a special policy to encourage garment industry in the state. In the last one decade, the state has emerged as one of the hubs of textile industry in India owing to industry-friendly policy of the state government. The state has also made long term planning to increase electricity production.#

He said the state is registering an increase of 1,000 megawatt capacity in electricity production as a result of long term planning.

Well known textile groups like Trident, Raymond, Vardhman, Nahar, SEL Group and Grasim are successfully operating in the state. In the last six years, nearly 40,000 people have got employment in the textile sector in the state. (RKS)

Fibre2Fashion News Desk  India
The North East Investors Summit, the first ever Investors Summit exclusively for North Eastern Region (NER), will showcase the unique opportunities in textile manufacturing that the NER offers to the business world. Union textiles minister Smriti Irani will inaugurate the summit themed Exploring Opportunities in North East Region, on January 29.

The North East Investors' Summit, the first ever 'Investors Summit' exclusively for North Eastern Region (NER), will showcase the unique opportunities in textile manufacturing that the NER offers to the business world. Union textiles minister Smriti Irani will inaugurate the summit themed 'Exploring Opportunities in North East Region', on January 29.#

Being organised jointly by the ministry of textiles and the ministry of DoNER, in collaboration with industry associations FICCI and CII, the two-day summit in Shillong will focus on manufacturing in textiles and allied sectors. The summit aims to showcase the NER as a global destination for investment, and to explore the possibility of bringing in convergence of efforts of various Central ministries and north eastern states to attract investment in NER.

The North East Investors' Summit, the first ever 'Investors Summit' exclusively for North Eastern Region (NER), will showcase the unique opportunities in textile manufacturing that the NER offers to the business world. Union textiles minister Smriti Irani will inaugurate the summit themed 'Exploring Opportunities in North East Region', on January 29.#

The event is expected to usher in a new era of collaboration, not only for investments but also for new skills and advanced production technology. The states of the NER would put up exclusive stalls and make presentations on investment opportunities in textile manufacturing in these states. The summit will have focused sessions on Showcasing Opportunities in Textiles in North East, Entrepreneurship Development and Start-ups, Enhancing Reach of North East Textiles through Textile Design and Marketing, Ease of Financing of Textiles Industry in North East and Improving Infrastructure in NER.

The North East Investors' Summit, the first ever 'Investors Summit' exclusively for North Eastern Region (NER), will showcase the unique opportunities in textile manufacturing that the NER offers to the business world. Union textiles minister Smriti Irani will inaugurate the summit themed 'Exploring Opportunities in North East Region', on January 29.#

Various MoUs between industry bodies and state governments are expected to be signed during the summit, which would promote investment and boost manufacturing in the region. Buyer-seller meets and exhibitions would also be held on both days of the summit.

The North East Investors' Summit, the first ever 'Investors Summit' exclusively for North Eastern Region (NER), will showcase the unique opportunities in textile manufacturing that the NER offers to the business world. Union textiles minister Smriti Irani will inaugurate the summit themed 'Exploring Opportunities in North East Region', on January 29.#

NER has huge potential for investments, particularly in the field of textiles and handicrafts, due to its inherent strength for skilled workforce and locally available raw materials. The ministry of textiles is implementing projects worth Rs 1,050 crore for handlooms, handicrafts, sericulture, apparel and garmenting, technical textiles etc. in the eight states of NER, in line with the Act East policy of the Indian government. These projects have created a foundation for further growth of manufacturing in textile sector. (RKS)

Fibre2Fashion News Desk  India
Deepika Padukones Tweet

"In a state of shock! Deeply saddened and disheartened by yesterday's events! As Padmavati, I can assure you that there is absolutely no distortion of history. 'Padmavati'," Deepika posted on Twitter on Saturday.

She Added..

"Our only endeavour is and has always been to share with the world the story of this courageous and powerful woman in the purest form there is," she added.

Ranveer Singhs Post

Whereas, Ranveer Singh wrote on his Facebook page, "As a team, we are making 'Padmavati' keeping in mind the sensitivities and emotions of the people of Rajasthan and the Rajput community."

He Added..

He further wrote, "Sanjay Sir is one of the most accomplished & authentic filmmakers we have in India, & he won't ever do anything to hurt anyone's feelings. What's happened is very unfortunate. We hope the people of Rajasthan will understand & empathise with our intentions & give us their support."

Shahid Kapoors Tweet

Shahid Kapoor too took to the micro-blogging site and wrote, "Very very sad. Words do fall short and feel too little to express feelings. Violence is unacceptable. This incident has shocked me. We need to look deep within as a society, as a country, as a people. Where are we headed."

Shahid On SLB

"Sanjay bhansali is a film maker who the country should be proud of. You will know when u see #padmavati the dignity he brings to it. And my only regret is that I wasn't by his side when this happened."

Aditi Rao Hydaris Tweet

"To curb an artists vision is to throttle a country... your passion inspires us sanjay sir... we love you and stand by you...," wrote Aditi Rao Hydari on Twitter.


WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - President Donald Trump signed an executive order Friday instituting 'extreme vetting' of immigrants in order to keep 'radical Islamic terrorists' out of the country.



The executive order is seen as part of effort by Trump to keep his campaign promise to clamp down on immigration.



'I am establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America,' Trump said at the Pentagon. 'We don't want them here.'



'We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas,' he added. 'We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people.'



The final version of the order was not immediately available but drafts obtained by CNN indicated all persons from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen would be banned from entering the U.S. for 30 days



The U.S. Refugee Admissions Program would also be suspended for 120 days until it is reinstated 'only for nationals of countries for whom' members of Trump's Cabinet deem can be properly vetted, CNN said.



The number of refugees eventually allowed into the country would also reportedly be reduced to 50,000 this fiscal year from the current level of 110,000.



Trump also signed a second executive order he said would 'begin the great rebuilding of the Armed Services of the United States.'



The president signed the orders following a ceremony swearing in retired Marine Corps General James Mattis as Defense Secretary.



Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

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NEW ORLEANS, LA--(Marketwired - January 27, 2017) - Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") and KSF partner, the former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., reminds investors that they have until March 20, 2017 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Dollar General Corporation (NYSE: DG), if they purchased the Company's securities between March 10, 2016 and November 30, 2016, inclusive (the "Class Period"). The action is pending in United States District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee.

What You May Do

If you purchased securities of Dollar General and would like to discuss your legal rights and how this case might affect you and your right to recover for your economic loss, you may, without obligation or cost to you, call toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or email KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn (lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com). If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in this class action, you must petition the Court by March 20, 2017.

About the Lawsuit

Dollar General and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.

On August 25, 2016, Dollar General announced disappointing second quarter 2016 financial and operational results caused by "a reduction in both SNAP participation rates and benefit levels."

Then, on December 1, 2016, Dollar General announced third quarter 2016 financial and operational results that included a reduction in same-store sales. The Company cited reductions in SNAP benefits as a major contributor of the disappointing results, and admitted that the benefit reductions "affect[] about 56% of our store base."

On this news, the price of Dollar General's shares plummeted.

About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC

KSF, whose partners include the Former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is a law firm focused on securities, antitrust and consumer class actions, along with merger & acquisition and breach of fiduciary litigation against publicly traded companies on behalf of shareholders. The firm has offices in New York, California and Louisiana.

To learn more about KSF, you may visit www.ksfcounsel.com.

Contact:



Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC

Lewis Kahn

Managing Partner

lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com

1-877-515-1850

206 Covington St.

Madisonville, LA 70447
NEW ORLEANS, LA--(Marketwired - January 27, 2017) - Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") and KSF partner, the former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., reminds investors that they have until March 27, 2017 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Mallinckrodt Public Limited Company (NYSE: MNK), if they purchased the Company's securities between November 25, 2014 and January 18, 2017, inclusive (the "Class Period"). The action is pending in United States District Court for the District of Columbia.

What You May Do

If you purchased securities of Mallinckrodt and would like to discuss your legal rights and how this case might affect you and your right to recover for your economic loss, you may, without obligation or cost to you, call toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or email KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn (lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com). If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in this class action, you must petition the Court by March 27, 2017.

About the Lawsuit

The complaint alleges that, throughout the Class Period, Mallinckrodt and its CEO, Mark Trudeau, made a series of false and misleading statements and failed to disclose material adverse facts about the long-term sustainability of Mallinckrodt's revenues for HP Acthar Gel ("Acthar"), the only FDA-approved adrenocorticotropic hormone preparation. The action alleges that Acthar's monopoly status was the product of unlawful anticompetitive practices and failed to disclose that its increasing reliance on Medicare and Medicaid meant that Mallinckrodt's monopolistic Acthar revenue would be threatened if the government took action to limit the price paid for this drug by taxpayers.

About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC

KSF, whose partners include the Former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is a law firm focused on securities, antitrust and consumer class actions, along with merger & acquisition and breach of fiduciary litigation against publicly traded companies on behalf of shareholders. The firm has offices in New York, California and Louisiana.

To learn more about KSF, you may visit www.ksfcounsel.com.

Contact:



Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC

Lewis Kahn

Managing Partner

lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com

1-877-515-1850

206 Covington St.

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Over 17 months since Raam Reddys debut film Thithi won the Golden Leopard at the Locarno Film Festival, its raining clones that are trying to cash in on the originals success and tap the cult following it earned. In December came Tharle Village featuring the four leads of Thithi, using the names of their characters from Thithi  Century Gowda, Gaddappa, Thammanna and Abhi  as the actors screen names. Yen Nin Problemmu was released last week and Gaddappana Circle is coming up. All three are in Kannada.

As it happens, Thithi was No. 1 on my list of Best Indian Films of 2016 published on Firstpost this month. I spoke to 27-year-old Reddy about the continuing influence of his maiden feature, international recognition, copycats and what comes next. Excerpts from the interview:

You are aware of the films Tharle Village, Yen Nin Problemmu and Gaddappana Circle featuring the same cast as Thithi and using the names of Thithis characters as the actors screen names. What do you think has prompted this rather unusual trend?

Thithi has become a sort of cult film in Karnataka, and characters like Century Gowda and Gaddappa have become Internet sensations. The new films seem to be using the marketability of the Thithi leads. It is quite interesting to see the anti-heroes of Thithi becoming conventional heroes, with Century Gowda and Gaddappa becoming stars in their 90s and 70s respectively, and deservedly so because of their inherent talents. Having said that, instead of playing characters that are very similar to their fictional roles in Thithi, it would be much more exciting to see them playing original roles in all their new films.

Are there copyright issues involved? Do you plan to take legal action against the makers?

My producers are taking legal action wherever there has been any copyright infringement, and will continue to do so for future films that directly replicate content from Thithi.

M.F. Husain once said, you know you have arrived as an artist only when imitations of your works appear. Are these wannabe Thithi clones flattering in that respect?

To be honest, I dont have any particular feelings as an artist when looking at these new films. I always just focus on doing my best to create original worlds in my own work. What happens after completion of a work of art is not in our control. I believe it should be witnessed merely as a phenomenon, and not judged in any way.

Why do you think your film speaks to so many people even now, not just in Karnataka, but across the world?

One of the main reasons Thithi has done well is because its a comedy, so its enjoyable at one level and it has a philosophical undertone at another level, it can be watched without much depth if you wish or there is depth in it if you search for it. In that sense, weve been a little apart from other films even within the fest circuit.

There is a tendency in India to say, Why does international acclaim matter? especially during discussions around the Oscars. Why does international acclaim matter to you?

In general Im a globally oriented filmmaker and this idea of trying to make stories out of India that are universal is important to me.

What does it do to an audience when they are exposed to cinema beyond their own mother tongues?

Its like travelling, in a way. When people travel, they experience more of the world and that tends to make them grow. I know that when I first went to the village (Nodekoppalu in Karnataka where Thithi is set) I found I grew. It was different from what Im used to. It was the first time I went into a rural setting from an insiders point of view. Ive been to rural settings but as an outsider. So that was an interesting experience.

Thats what happens to people watching films that are not particular to them. If a film offers me a world Ive never seen before or an alternate reality I can inhabit, and if I like that alternate reality or vibe with it, I tend to have a deeply gratifying spiritual experience. Creating a particular world thats never been created before or shown in a certain way  as a storyteller and filmmaker, Id like to give people that unique experience.

Do we need more people today watching films in languages and about cultures other than their own, considering the disturbed world we live in with ISIS, Donald Trump, Brexit and things like the love jihad movement happening in our own country?

To some extent. The more travelled you are, the wiser you are in a certain way because theres more life experience, you open your mind. At the same time, stories are quite universal, whether its Thithi which, if you remove the cultural rootedness, could have been told in many many places. People like exciting stories that they can relate to. So its a little bit of both in that sense.

The strongest influence art could have on an individual is when it makes them look inward rather than outward and points to the fact that there is a certain journey inward that could be more gratifying. The world needs that in general with all the things you said. Ancient Eastern philosophy, spirituality, every religion has it at the highest level. Touching upon that in Indian cinema is important because as a country were one of the pioneers of spiritual thought.

Also, in every piece Ive ever done including my novel Its Raining In Maya, there are spiritual philosophical undertones. In the current world situation it would help if a film would integrate that subtly, in a way that it reaches a fair number of people, like Gaddappas character has reached people completely apolitically. Somebody started a Facebook page called Be Like Gaddappa which is shocking and wondrous to me. Gaddappa has come into popular culture as an alternate way of life. In a blinkered sort of world where were living, which is sometimes overly politically driven and with very strong opinions, I think simplicity of the kind that Gaddappa lives with will tend to make each one of us happier. As each one gets happier, society gets happier and theres less hate and violence. (Laughs) Thats my personal vision for cinema.

You were brought up in Bangalore. What made you think you needed to go to a village and that you will find a story there for your film?

Nodekoppalu is the ancestral village of my co-writer Eregowda. And I came into cinema with an inclination to work with non-professionals and people who still form a majority of the country but are not typically on film. The kind of films we see are fairly urban, so if youre doing a story in a village, people say, Oh, village story. Im not a fan of such stereotyping, so this just created a very special unique situation.

Still, since you grew up in Bangalore, why did you not tap Bangalore for a story?

Id go anywhere to make a film if it resounds with whatever Im trying to say as an artist. I dont feel particularly from this place or that place or this country. I just feel human. I never had that strong identification to this or that. Id be happy to be unidentified with anything. That simplicity is something a character like Gaddappa carries. That simplicity is core to all philosophical Eastern spirituality. So thats really the core from which the art builds.

I found that world fascinating in a way that it stimulated me artistically. Im actually least creative when Im in Bangalore, because Im at home, its too comfortable. I dont think Ill make a film in Bangalore to be honest, and Im not necessarily the type who does a film particularly with what he knows.

Theres a certain school of thought that as an artist you do what you know. I filter certain impulses into other settings. The way it is packaged doesnt matter to me as much as what the core of it is. So I could easily work anywhere in the world and feel comfortable if the core resounds with me.

You said you do not identify yourself with any particular place. Considering the political context in which you are speaking, in which it is being almost demanded that we all assert our national and religious identity and so on, you do realise that that statement could actually offend some people who demand to know, So what are you first, Raam? Are you a Hindu? Are you a Kannadiga? Are you an Indian? What are you?

(Laughs) Our way of non-ego is something very deep in Hindu philosophy, in all the religions at the highest level, at the root where they all stem from. In the current political situation perhaps weve moved away from those roots. But I dont think in those terms at all, of whether this would offend someone or not. Thats part of the same unconditioning. I think we are all conditioned and for each of our own personal journeys and happiness, being little less conditioned leads to more unconditional sort of love 360 degrees, a more positive space. Over-identification I dont think is a problem solver. Less conditioning is a problem solver.

Its now moving beyond philosophy into science in terms of mindfulness studies happening all over the world in Harvard etc. Neurologists are studying brain activity and people who live in the moment, for example. Its showing how mental activity is leading to happier, more productive, more stable people. So actually, filmmaking is one side of what Im really interested in. Im really interested in the human condition, why theres so much violence and hate everywhere, how simple adjustments in the way we live our lives daily could (laughs) solve a lot of problems.

Having said that, I have an attitude of non-negation where I wont negate the fact that Im a Hindu, that Im an Indian, that Ive grown up in Bangalore and studied in Delhi. Like every time I hear Indian classical music I feel so proud to be Indian. I wanna make films in India. I love the fact that Im Indian, and I wanna hold on to it in a sort of greedy way. Its not that there is no Indian in me, its just that that doesnt define me.

So you want to make films in India. Not specifically in Karnataka and in Kannada?

Absolutely. Not specifically even films. Its part of my life philosophy, Ill commit to the moment per se, then well see how things go from there. Like Im not committing to making films for the rest of my life, I might go back to writing, Ive taken up film photography on my grandfathers camera, Ive been into music, Im deeply into sound. I dont think Ill ever go beyond being an artist, but I dont know whether its only films, and if its film it could be anything  regional films, a silent film on the moor. (Laughs) Im open to exploring that. Because I dont have any strong conditioning connections to this or that, Im happy moving anywhere. I wouldnt mind making a film in the North Pole if I felt deeply connected to it.

So it doesnt necessarily even have to be within India.

Ah, not necessarily. But now where I am in my life, I feel like there are a lot of films in India that I could make better than anyone else and theyre calling me to make those. Its more of a professional philosophy that its good to do something original that no one else can do better than you. Perhaps theres someone in the North Pole who might do a North Pole film better than me. Right now where I stand, there are still stories here that Id like to tell.

Its always fascinating when someone makes a film in a language they dont understand. Ive been particularly thinking about this since I saw Dheepan, the Tamil film by Jacques Audiard who is French. Do you have the ability to make a film in a language you dont understand?

Im fine doing that. Ive made a Czech short film which is unreleased, but Im really proud of it. The title means spring in English. For me that becomes the body of the film which Im happy exploring in different worlds, in different ways. Its far less important than the core of the film.

What is the mechanics of making a film like that? You dont understand what is actually happening on the sets when your actors are speaking, so how do you work on the film?

Its interesting actually, I thought Dheepan was good but the intonation and dialogue delivery were the weakest part of the film. Thats definitely not the directors fault, its the fault of whoever is translating. As a director, theres someone shooting your film, someone doing your art direction, someone doing a million things in million departments so if you have someone in the translation team who understands you and your artistic impulse, then its a question of them watching dialogue delivery and translating it correctly. If you get multiple people to translate it you can get very close. However, you must accept that thats something you cant control and it may not be what you intend.

Ive had Czech people see my film and say its fine. That said, my Czech film had dialogue but it didnt depend on conversational nuances to convey the story or its intention. Thats important. I would never make a dialogue-dependent film in Czech. That would be silly. (Laughs)

You used the term regional film, though in an earlier conversation before the interview you told me you dont particularly love the term. Why do you use it if you are not comfortable with it?

Oh, its just a way to communicate. All kinds of cinema characterisation is for the industry to communicate so you can figure out budgets, etc. Art versus commercial, for instance. But this idea of not labelling anything, of just being unconditioned, is something I like. A work of art that happens to be on screen with some sort of sound going with it, thats all film is to me. Usually it tells a story, but not necessarily. Theres a film like Baraka thats brilliant, its just visual poetry.

My question is related more to the fact that the terms regional language and regional cinema imply that there is such a thing as a national language and a national cinema, which factually there is not. Can you think of a better term for Indian language cinema?

Oh, thats interesting. You can maybe characterise it more geographically? So its a south India film perhaps? Or south film? I guess you can say south, north, west, east, but thats complicated again, so I guess thats something Ill think about. Do you have another better term?

I just say Indian language cinema.

Indian language cinema. But the thing is, because we have so many languages its important for the industry and for the viewer to choose their film.

Booking websites and newspaper listings specify the language of the film anyway.

I think the problem with regional cinema is that it sounds marginalised.

Yes, does it not?

Ya of course it does. The same way art film sounds. With anything in the world, a marginalising term is a problem and becomes negative in its connotations. We have so many languages that if you call one the language and others the other language, it doesnt give the others their due. The Tamil and Telugu industries are also very big. But ya, these things dont bother me too much. I know what I need to, so its a part of the whole game.

Youve worked with non-professionals in Thithi. It has done very well but considering that you are still young, do you think you would be able to handle established stars without getting overwhelmed or intimidated?

Thats a whole new game, but Im confident of my craft and once youre confident of your craft, everything else becomes secondary. Then it just has to be mutual respect, and of course respect for people who are senior to you for their body of work, but its always film first. Im hoping that as an ethos will work professionally while dealing with anybody. Im quite comfortable as a people person, so Im curious to see how that comes about, but Im very keen as a director to always try and hold artistic integrity no matter who my producer, distributor or star cast is. Eventually if you prove that you know your craft, people will submit to your vision as a director.

But no, Im not so nervous that way. I dont take anything that seriously. Like I said, if its not film Ill happily do something else. So that high stakes is something I try not to bother me. The sort of spiritual background that my family comes from allows me to detach and look at it as something youre passionate about, not life or death.

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Sanjay Leela Bhansali is on his way to Mumbai after the violent protests at his film Padmavati's shoot in Jaipur. His crew is all travelling with him after the shoot got cancelled.

Here is team Bhansali's official statement on the matter, after the Rajput Karni Sena alleged that they have been in touch with the makers of the film for six months, stopping them from coming to Jaipur to shoot. They also claimed that Bhansali's security team fired first.

"Sanjay Leela Bhansali has shot two films in Jaipur and despite his love for Rajasthan, for the safety of his crew, we have decided to stop the shoot and leave the city post the shocking incident where miscreants damaged property and misbehaved with the crew on the shoot of Padmavati. SLB had directed the opera Padmavati to packed houses in Paris and earned worldwide praise for it.

He was inspired by the beautiful and courageous queen and is making a feature film on the story. We clarify that there is no dream sequence or any objectionable scene between Rani Padmavati and Allauddin Khilji. We have been carefully researching and making the film. In spite of this, the attack on the shoot and crew was uncalled for and was extremely damaging to the image of the beautiful city of Jaipur.

We are grateful to the authorities at Jaipur who responded promptly and limited the damage on shoot. We are confident that Mewar will be proud of the film made on their revered queen. We do not want to hurt any sentiments and would appreciate if the local people support us in making this film and making their queen revered by the world."

Meanwhile, here's a letter sent by the Sena to Bhansali in September last year, asking for a clarification on whether facts about Rani Padmavati have been distorted to suit the feature film.

Here's what Shahid Kapoor, one of the lead characters in the film, had to say about the matter:

Very very sad. Words do fall short and feel too little to express feelings. Violence is unacceptable. This incident has shocked me.  Shahid Kapoor (@shahidkapoor) January 28, 2017

We need to look deep within as a society, as a country, as a people. Where are we headed.  Shahid Kapoor (@shahidkapoor) January 28, 2017

We need to look deep within as a society, as a country, as a people. Where are we headed.  Shahid Kapoor (@shahidkapoor) January 28, 2017

Sanjay bhansali is a film maker who the country should be proud of. You will know when u see #padmavati the dignity he brings to it.  Shahid Kapoor (@shahidkapoor) January 28, 2017
By Ernest Scheyder, Catherine Ngai and Terray Sylvester

When U.S. President Donald Trump signed orders to revive two controversial energy pipeline projects this week, he pledged to require new pipelines to use American-made steel, a gesture to workers in the hard-hit industry who helped propel him to power.But U.S. steelmakers will receive negligible benefit from the multi-billion dollar Keystone XL project, one of the two projects Trump ordered to proceed, because they have limited ability to meet the stringent materials requirements for the TransCanada (TRP.TO) line.Economists said Trump's order has many loopholes to enforcement and could violate international trade law.Meanwhile, in the quiet prairie town of Gascoyne, North Dakota, deer wander among gleaming stacks of steel tubing intended for the Keystone pipeline. The company bought the material years ago when the U.S. debate was raging over whether the project should go ahead.TransCanada tried for more than five years to build the 1,179-mile (1,897 km) pipeline, until then-President Barack Obama rejected it in 2015.Since the materials were already purchased for Keystone, Trump's move to revive the project should not result in new large steel orders. The profits for manufacturing that steel were booked by companies with corporate headquarters in Russia, India and Italy. Those companies own the steel mills in the United States that made about half of the pipeline for the $8 billion project. Much of that steel has sat exposed to the elements in several giant stockyards along the pipeline's route for more than two years. Analysts said some of it will need to be replaced. But that is unlikely to come from U.S. producers, such as U.S. Steel (X.N), AK Steel (AKS.N) or Steel Dynamics (STLD.O), analysts and traders said, because of the specialised steel required for the big-ticket project.Trump's directive on using U.S.-made steel is likely also inconsistent with long-standing World Trade Organization rules that require imported products to be given the same treatment as domestically produced goods.

The directive could well become the target of a challenge under WTO rules.Trump's order also runs counter to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), a pact that he said he wants to renegotiate but one that nevertheless remains in effect.'NICE GESTURE'

TransCanada resubmitted its application Keystone project on Thursday, two days after Trump signed the orders.

The line is designed to link existing pipeline networks in Canada and the United States to bring crude from Alberta and North Dakota to refineries in Illinois en route to the Gulf of Mexico. Around Gascoyne where the tubing has sat idle in a TransCanada yard, there is little sign among residents of the fierce opposition that stopped Keystone and led to the delay of the other controversial pipeline that Trump pushed forward on Tuesday - the Dakota Access Pipeline.But townspeople were sceptical of Trump's made-in-America order."It's a nice gesture, but you can't renegotiate when the pipe's been bought already," said Dan Peterson, 47, a contractor from nearby Bowman, North Dakota, who supports the project. About half of the pipe was forged in Arkansas, at a plant owned by India's Welspun (WGSR.NS). About a quarter came from a Russian-owned plant in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan, and the rest came from Italy and India.

Alberta-based TransCanada expects to use roughly 821,000 tons of pipe in Canada and 660,000 tons in the United States for the project. TransCanada representatives did not return a request for comment.Trump's order pertains only to sections of pipelines built in the United States, and it said the directive should be followed to the "maximum extent" possible, which gives the administration wiggle room. Steel manufacturers and analysts said that TransCanada's stringent requirements for the pipeline, including thickness and pressure requirements, already keeps most U.S.-based steelmakers out, given current forging and manufacturing processes. That includes Nucor (NUE.N) and Steel Dynamics, which can make pipeline that is thick enough but may not meet all the pressure parameters. For the main trunk line, experts say that Keystone requires welded line pipe between 36 inches to 42 inches (91 to 107 cm) in diameter.Foreign-owned steelmakers with U.S. operations, such as India's Welspun and JSW as well as Russia's Evraz, are best able to produce the pipe. To be sure, U.S. steelmakers have a large part of their business in producing pipe and tube for the oil and gas industry. But, analysts said that to meet Keystone's requirements, they will need to reinvest and retrofit their plants to reorient production. It's not clear if other pipeline projects would have the same standards as Keystone."There are people who make (this type of) steel pipe in the U.S., but they're mostly Indian and Russian" companies, said Charles Bradford, an analyst at New York-based Bradford Research. (Reporting by Ernest Scheyder in Houston and Catherine Ngai in New York; Additional reporting by Terray Sylvester in Gascoyne, North Dakota; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
By Liz Hampton and Catherine Ngai

| HOUSTON/NEW YORK

HOUSTON/NEW YORK As with many industries now fretting over the uncertain future of U.S. trade policy, the oil business is sizing up the potential impact of the various protectionist measures being bandied about Washington - which have sent crude markets into a tizzy.The trade proposal with the most momentum may be the controversial tax reform, pushed by Republicans in Congress, that could slap a tax of up to 20 percent on all imports, including crude oil. That would spark a rise in fuel costs across the country that would hurt East and West Coast refiners more than those near the Gulf of Mexico. It would also hit the pocketbooks of drivers and airline passengers, as refiners pass on the nearly $30 billion that the tax could cost them each year on crude imports."The consumer is really the one that suffers," Cynthia Warner, executive vice president for operations at refiner Tesoro Corp (TSO.N), said earlier this month at a conference in Houston. Tesoro operates seven refineries: two in California, two in North Dakota and one each in Utah, Alaska and Washington. The "border adjustment" tax could also redraw trade maps for global flows of crude and refined products. U.S. crude producers would be the obvious beneficiaries as their overseas rivals bear heavy taxes on imports, which are used often by coastal refiners, especially those without direct access to U.S. pipelines.Higher prices for domestic crude would make pumping from more U.S. fields economically viable - encouraging higher output from the shale patch and giving more momentum to a nascent recovery in the U.S. shale industry after a brutal international price war.While that likely would not put a big dent in the 7.9 million barrels per day (bpd) that the U.S. imports, Goldman Sachs estimates that U.S. oil exploration and production firms would benefit to the tune of $20 billion from higher domestic crude price and increased production.Crude markets have been buffeted by the public back-and-forth between President Donald Trump and the Republican party over various tax proposals. Contradictory signals from Trump sent the oil markets up and down in recent days. U.S. crude fell to its biggest discount to Brent crude in five months last week after Trump appeared to poured cold water on the idea as "too complex". The next day, he said the tax would be discussed - and U.S. crude rose relative to Brent. Traders had speculated on the tax with an options bet that the value of U.S. crude would rise above the global Brent crude benchmark. Trump's comments caused volatility in trade of those options, which in turn impacted benchmark oil prices.Investment bank Goldman Sachs estimated in a report this week the border tax proposal had a 20 percent chance of passing. But White House chief of staff Reince Priebus seemed to move the President closer to supporting the border adjustment tax on Thursday, in the context of discussing how to make Mexico pay for a security wall on U.S. border with Mexico, his signature campaign promise.

Asked if Trump favoured a border adjustment tax, Priebus said such a tax would be "one way" of paying for the border wall.$30 BILLION IN IMPORT COSTS

Border taxes are part of a broader tax reform plan that is being pushed by Republican House Speaker Paul Ryan as an alternative to a variety of protectionist trade policies discussed in a more ad hoc way by Trump. While Trump has threatened to impose tariffs on specific industries or countries in an effort to boost U.S. manufacturing, Ryan's border adjustment tax would tax all imports at 20 percent. Exports would be tax-free. That could add more than $30 billion to the annual import bill for U.S. refiners, assuming an oil price of $53 per barrel on the 7.9 million bpd of imports that fuel the world's largest economy.A steep rise in import costs would squeeze the margins of refiners dependent on foreign crude shipments such as Chevron (CVX.N) and PBF Energy (PBF.N).

But all refiners would see feedstock prices rise if the tax pushed up domestic crude prices - and it would, because there is not enough U.S. crude to meet demand.To cover the costs to refiners, retail gasoline prices would need to increase by 13 percent, or 30 cents a gallon, energy consultant Philip Verleger estimated in a report last month. Diesel would rise by 11 percent, or 27 cents a gallon. That would be the equivalent of adding $300 to $400 per year to the average consumers' gasoline tab, Barclays Capital said earlier this month.Aside from oil refiners, automakers and retailers oppose the tax. Those against the measure include billionaire industrialists Charles and David Koch, who spend heavily to support Republican candidates and conservative policies and own a refinery that imports crude.Republicans, who now control the House and Representatives and the Senate, say that if U.S. companies want the lower corporation tax from its current level of 35 percent - a move supported by both Trump and Ryan - then they have to accept the border tax on imports.

COSTS FOR COASTAL REFINERS

The refining industry as a whole opposes the tax, which would separate it from the global oil marketplace. But East and West Coast refiners have more reason to worry. Coastal refiners import more foreign oil and typically have a competitive advantage over inland counterparts in accessing imports because they can buy a wider range of crude oil in various qualities.That advantage would evaporate with the tax."Anybody who is importing crude and not exporting very much - mostly refiners on the East and West Coasts - is going to be in a worse position," said Sandy Fielden, director of oil and products research at Morningstar. "Their raw material cost will have gone up, and that will eat into their margins."Chevron, which operates two refineries in California with capacity of more than 500,000 barrels per day, is the largest importer of foreign crude, according to government data from 2016. For the first ten months of 2016, Chevron imported some 213 million barrels, excluding Canadian imports. That's followed by Valero Energy (VLO.N), which imported 194 million barrels, and Phillips 66 (PSX.N), which imported 130 million barrels. Phillips 66 said it was analysing the potential impacts of such a law, while Chevron, Valero and PBF Energy did not respond to requests for comment.West Coast refiners may feel the pinch less than those on the East Coast, because they have access to Alaskan crude cargoes. U.S. Gulf refiners would be on the best footing, traders say, because of their easy access to domestic and foreign supplies and proximity to export markets for tax-free fuel shipments out. (Reporting by Liz Hampton in Houston and Catherine Ngai in New York; Editing by Simon Webb and Brian Thevenot)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
Nagaland saw a shutdown for the second day on Saturday as the state government decided to go ahead with Urban Local Bodies election despite demand from the tribal organisations to postpone it until the Municipal Act is reviewed.

The indefinite shutdown called by the Joint Co-Ordination Committee of the tribal bodies that became effective Friday is likely to hit the ULB elections slated on 1 February.

The state government on Friday had a cabinet meeting that decided to go ahead with its decision to hold municipal election despite protests, said a report by the Nagaland Post.

The report quoted a press communique issued commissioner and secretary to chief minister, Himato Zhimomi as saying, "While deliberating on appeals made by various organisations, the cabinet decided that elections cannot be deferred and shall be taken to the logical conclusion as per the provisions of law."

Meanwhile, as precautionary measures, the state government on Friday night put in place police personnel across Dimapur district to tackle any kind of eventuality during the bandh period, said the report.

The JCC decided to postpone the indefinite bandh from Friday to Saturday, responding to the state government's request seeking a day's time to halt the implementation of the shutdown until the cabinet meeting was over, but few districts followed with the shutdown.

Vichutolie Mere, president of the Chakhroma Public Organisation, which is also a part of the JCC told Firstpost, "The chief minister asked for one day's time. His request was accepted, but finally, the cabinet decided to go against our demand."

Adding that the Nagaland government is behaving like a communist government he said even though the government has decided to go ahead with the polls, a free and fair election will not be possible, on account of the shutdown.

"The polling booths will be blocked and no one will be allowed to cast votes. Even if any candidate is elected he will not be allowed to function," Mere said.

Earlier 140 intending candidates out of 536 withdrew their nominations, as tribal organisations opposing the election threatened to ex-communicate them.

Seven municipal bodies did not see a single nomination filed due to poll boycott declared by the tribal organisations, said The Indian Express.

On the other hand, the government is stiff in its decision to hold the polls at any cost.

The Nagaland Post reported quoting home commissioner Abhijit Sinha that the state government has directed district administrations and police to take all measures to ensure that those candidates remaining in the fray were not harassed nor forced to withdraw by any individual or organisations.

Civic polls in Nagaland has been boycotted by tribal groups in the state, on account of the governments decision to reserve 33 percent seats for women in it.

Hokiye Sema, the president of Central Naga Tribal Council, a tribal body, told Firstpost, "In Naga society, a woman is not considered to be equal to men. She is not even allowed to speak in panchayat until and unless she is summoned by it. Providing 33 percent reservation to women amounts to giving her the same status as men and it gives men inferiority complex."

Sema said that the Naga society has been following these laws for more than thousand years and those cannot be just wiped out. He said that Article 371(A) of the Constitution of India provides the Naga people with the right to frame their own laws as per local customs.

Chakhasang Public Organisation, another tribal body that has joined hands in the agitation, has a different view on the issue.

Maintaining that 33 percent reservation of seats is not the only issue with the Municipal Act, president K Lea said, "The Municipal Act passed recently was not deliberated upon properly before bringing it into force. It infringes upon the rights of the Naga people to develop their own land. After this Act is brought into force we will have to take permission from the municipality to develop our own land, whereas the Article 371(A) of the Indian Constitution provides us with the right to decide upon to what to do with our resources."
"I shouldn't have come," was the grim thought that surfaced from the most deplorably insecure depths of my writerly soul.

"You had every right to be here," debated the more rational, enlightened voice in my head.

"Everyone knows you're a pity-invitee," was the answer that emerged, fully formed, a retaliatory blow in the face.

And so, head hung in half-shame, half-pride, I made my way to the counter outside from where I was meant to collect my "Speakers" badge.

I was still smarting from the cold humiliation I had suffered the evening before, where, having arrived at the airport in Jaipur, I approached the prescribed "JLF Travel Desk" to inquire about the cab meant to transfer me to my hotel: I mumbled my name to a girl, one of three manning the desk, and asked about my commute to the Lalit. "Sorry Ma'am, this is not a help desk," she retorted, as if sensing that I was not meant to belong, or couldn't emanate or fakely assume the air of authority the real invitees exude. "But I was instructed to specifically look for this particular counter, and that I would be assisted," I said, channeling more of a defensive air than was perhaps necessary. I wished I was significant enough to be gracious about this clear case of presumed identity-lessness, but I feel too fragile to acquiesce.

"Are you a speaker or a delegate?" she asked, so sure I was not either. "A speaker," I said. "My name is Rosalyn D'Mello and I can see it on your list," I said rudely, having caught a quick glimpse of the sheet that was being handled by the girl's colleague. Masking her surprise, she proceeded to apologise profusely. "I've been traveling since 10.30 am, I just want to get to my room. I have two dinners to get to," I said. "Give us ten minutes," the boy with her said, as she continued to apologise despite my having feigned forgiveness. "By the time you get to Amer, the dinners will be over anyway," he added.

Mercifully, when I arrive at the counter to collect the badge that holds a unique barcode that'll clock in all my dinner and alcohol intake, the volunteer recognises me. She must have done her homework and studied the photos on each badge so she could correlate the face and the name. After a half-hearted frisk and bag scan, I am finally inside the premises of the 10th edition of the Jaipur Literature Festival.

This was by no means my first time. I'd been a regular visitor since the second edition, when Salman Rusdhie was a speaker, and Suketu Mehta. I loved the intimacy of sharing space with writers you never imagined encountering in real life, who were attached to your world only through the dimension of the written word. The festival had succeeded in making writers approachable, a wet dream for a 21-year-old with textual ambitions. So my first time at Jaipur was as a reader who also doubled as an aspiring writer. It was exhilarating. Over the years, my role as a freelancer writer offered me a little more exclusive access as a participant with a press pass. I remember a long interview I did a few years ago with William Kentridge, the legendary South African writer. I recall transcribing whole sessions on art, attending panels on refugee poetry, foraging for precious little moments of hope that I, too, could stake claim to a voice that was independent and self-reflexive, punctuated by formal awareness and capable of captivating an audience that boasted a wide demographic. As I found myself more and more entrenched in the literary circles of Delhi, Mumbai, and Goa, I found my access increase. Writing felt more possible, and by 2013, I found myself as a writer with an agent, one of the best in the industry.

When A Handbook For My Lover, my debut non-fiction memoir was finally released in late 2015, I hoped it would catch the fancy of the festival's co-directors. It was an exciting book, a literary tell-all about the coming of age of a desirous young woman with a photographer 30 years older, and her journey towards claiming agency for herself, owning up to her most secretive fantasies, relating to formative texts and the entirety of her gesture of surrender to the transformatory though conflict-ridden act of being in love and being loved. I imagined that its loyalty towards transcribing the erotic undercurrent of the relationship, a relative feat, given the oppressively patriarchal climate that continues to hold sway in contemporary India, would have made it stand out. I had been to panels on erotica and the memoir at the JLF before, many of which were entirely composed of male speakers  'manels'. I figured my book would be a welcome addition to a discourse that is infrequent within the non-fiction genre. When, despite three rave reviews by significant national newspapers, I got no invite to JLF's 2016 edition, I swallowed my pride, thanks to the lover's cajoling, and wrote to Namita Gokhale. She replied politely, saying it was too late now to include any new books and that she would keep my book in mind for the following year.

My publishers had given up. My publicist said I had to consider the possibility of sucking up to certain people if I wanted to be invited to any literature festivals. The HarperCollins team, too, seemed surprised by the lack of enthusiasm towards my book. I gave up. I was too busy earning a living to be overly concerned with networking, I had several other books on my plate that deserved my attention. Meanwhile, my book was published in Australia by an editor from Hardie Grant who fell in love with it. The lover's portrait of me was used as the cover. I spent a month in that continent touring my book, being appreciated by such a foreign audience. The months flew by. It was lit fest season in India again. But I had only received one invitation, to the Bangalore Literature Festival. I said yes. I ended up being the only woman on an all-male panel on the subject of erotica, juvenilely titled "Oohs and Aahs" that included one published writer who had yet to write a book that dealt with the erotic. His participation in the panel was on the premise of a yet-to-be-published book. He, along with another older male writer had allowed themselves to occupy the space that should have been reserved for writers who were more honestly and subversively dealing with the subject of the erotic, which, incidentally, in this day and age happen to be women. Before the older writer seized the opportunity to bore the audience with his un-timed and untimely reading of vast tracts of his novel that were presumably 'sexy', the moderator offered me the opportunity to read from my book. I chose the first two pages that constitute the prologue, and as I read, I searched through the length and breadth of the audience and found every member was hooked to my words. For the first time as a writer, I felt like I was so irrevocably intimate with my potential readers. When the session was over, I was humbled by the number of men and women of varying age-groups who approached me, some to tell me they'd already read my book multiple times, some to say they had just bought it and were eager for me to autograph their copies. It was magical.

That was mid-December. Until then, I had been trying with all sincerity to emulate the grace and anonymity with which Elena Ferrante writes her fiction, unmindful of the business of glamour or fame, content to be unknown and unknowable, except perhaps through the writing that she had authored. But that afternoon, after the high of interacting with so many women who felt they were able to identify so intensely with the vulnerability of the character I personify in my memoir, I began to feel cheated out of the enormity of such an experience; the whole idea of being given a platform that would enable me to connect with readers and influence aspiring minds. So by the first week of January, when, once again I realised I had not been invited to the Jaipur Literature Festival, an event that held particular significance for me as a writer, I felt like something had been taken away from me. If the festival had maintained its initial focus of serving up only the very best writerly fare, I would have understood my not being included as my not being good enough. But critically, my book had been a success. Every review commended its originality, bravery, and trascendental lure. The festival's 2016 edition was being so ostensibly inclusive it had even invited two members from the ultra right-wing RSS, male writers who didn't even have any works of literature to their credit. And yet, a writer like me, who had written something that functioned within the personal-is-political resistance had no place. It seemed unfair.

My attempts to make peace with the exclusion were in full swing when I began to get messages from friends from around the world who were going to be descending in Jaipur for the ten-year-anniversary extravaganza. That's when I began to full the sting of being snubbed. I put out a message on Facebook casually saying that after two years of my book being snubbed, I had decided not to go to the festival, I would spend that weekend instead at the residency I had been offered at HH Art Spaces in Goa. Within a few hours, the status message had been seen by hundreds of Facebook "friends". It was mostly other women writers who knew the quiet yet agonising humiliation of similar rejection who jumped to my defence. Soon, the festival's director, William Dalrymple jumped in to change the narrative. My absence was not to be read as proof of snubbing but as evidence of oversight. Festival directors were often really busy and it was thus possible that they could "forget", and writers should feel no qualms in reaching out to them. My writer friend Samhita Arni debated that the onus could not be put on writers, festival directors were responsible for keeping themselves updated. The debate spiralled on. I received a text from Dalrymple saying he could try to get me on a panel, as if it were a secret nightclub with a super private and coveted guest list, a hotspot that I was not cool enough to be at except through someone's mediation. I had to know someone who knew someone. Except I did know someone who knew many other someones, I was always "connected", but I had been under the impression that it was undignified to ask for something that my merit had already proved I deserve.

Wouldn't the benefits of going far outweigh the benefits of not going? I argued. I decided to read Dalrymple's entreaty as a correctional gesture, and I summoned as much grace as I could muster so I could bring myself to accept.

As I took my place on stage, I retrieved my notebook from my bag, in case I needed to pen down a thought. The moderator, an excellent writer, Samanth Subramaniam, introduced the subject of the discussion: The Memoir, as I shifted in my seat. After going through the motions with the other three writers  all women  who were my co-panelists, he turned his attention to me. By then all my insecurities had risen to the brim and were threatening to spill over. "Do not discredit your own writing. Do not call your memoir fickle. Do not allow your self-confidence to be called into question," I scribbled in my notebook. I had been placed next to Hyeonseo Lee, a North Korean defector; Emma Sky, who left the comfort of her known world to go and rebuild Iraq; and Bee Rowlatt, who, inspired by a journey made by Mary Wollstonecraft centuries ago, decided to take off to the Netherlands to follow in the feminist's footsteps, year-old baby in tow. And then there was me, a 31-year-old who was suddenly experiencing a bout of the Imposter Syndrome, wondering if there was a reason I was a pity-invitee.

But the women on my panel had lived exhilarating lives, and so embodied such unusual grace and kindness. They urged me on, they listened to me, as did the audience. For a while, the voices in my head were silenced. "I'm glad I came," I thought, and the conversations that continued long after the session ended reinforced that feeling, including the brief interview I did with Ellen Barry of the New York Times, who said she was exploring the idea of inclusion and exclusion at the festival, and was therefore interested in the story of how I came to be invited.

"I hope you enjoy the rest of your time in Jaipur," Dalrymple said to me later, at dinner. I said I'd make every effort, and so I did. I spent time with my agent, David Godwin, I had my first real conversation with Manu Joseph, a writer I read often enough but who I always presumed to be a snob, and by whom I am now completely charmed. I shamelessly barged in on a conversation between Chandrahas Chowdhury and Ashok Ferry in the Author's Lounge, which ended in my being introduced to the latter's beautiful biceps, exercise routine, and shocking age: he's only 59! I met Manju Kapoor, a writer whose book I had recently reviewed for The Hindu. I got re-acquainted with Jayanta Mahapatra, a poet I love, who I'd met years ago, when I ended up gifting him my copy of Sexing the Cherry by Jeanette Winterson, and he, in return, couriered to my JNU hostel address a signed copy of his own Rain of Rites. I experienced the phenonemon of "mansplaining" with Tishani Doshi and Joseph over lunch, as a random older gentleman inserted himself into the dynamic only to ask Tishani and me our opinion on mansplaining so he could interrupt our replies to proffer his own two-bit. Tishani laughed aloud when she realised the man was not interested in hearing her talk  considering we had been going over the proceedings of that morning's excellent panel on the subject of mansplaining and misogyny in which Bee Rowlat (the writer who went off with her toddler to retrace Wollstonecraft's steps) candidly asked the token man on the panel, Suhel Seth, why he was there to begin with. Like many in the audience I had clapped my approval when the women on the panel exposed the many hypocrisies practised by misogynists-in-gentleman's clothes. Despite her reservations about steering such a panel, Amrita Tripathi was stupendous.

Like last year, the biggest "moment" for me as a debut writer was at the airport in Delhi. In 2016 that moment was facilitated by Margaret Atwood, the only reason I even went to Jaipur that year. I had happened to spot her walking towards her gate as I was waiting to board my flight to Dhaka. I'd mustered the courage to seek her out to give her a copy of my book. By the time I'd got a copy and had started to look for her, she'd disappeared. So I inquired at all the gates that were still open if there was a passenger on board named Margaret Atwood, until I got lucky at the Air India counter for the flight bound to Heathrow, and I urged a passenger about to board to ferry my book to her. I learned later, through a tweet by her, that my book had reached her hands.

This year, as I was waiting for my flight to Goa from Delhi, I had a two-hour interlude after arriving in from Jaipur. I had said goodbye to most of the writers who were on that same flight. Now I was alone. I suddenly spotted Jayanta Mahapatra who saw me too and smiled.

"Mr Mahapatra, since you're here, why don't I just give you a copy of my book instead of couriering it to you like I promised?" I asked. "There's a copy at the bookshop, I can quickly get it."

"I don't want you to go to any trouble," he said.

"It'd be a pleasure," I said.

So I returned with a copy, which he made me sign, asking for a personal note too. It would be an honour, I told him.

"Please also write your address and phone number," he said. I obeyed, knowing fully well that soon enough I would receive a package from him as a sign of gratitude.

After I photographed him with my book, and after we hugged, he said this 

"I hope you don't mind, Rosalyn, but I would really like you to have this pen. It's my pen, and I've used it to write many poems. I would really like you to have it.

I was speechless.

I knew then why I had come after all. Precisely so I could pursue moments like these that were undiluted by egos, that were immersed in grace, that lived outside of convention and expectation, that were about conversations between writers across generations, beyond boundaries, marked by the vitality of conflicting genders as well as an awe for the provocative lure of the written word. I wanted to mark my existence as a writer and a woman with a voice that ought not to be ignored. I wanted to reject the threat of obscurity or anonymity. I wanted to stand up and be counted. And I wanted, most of all, to be heard.

Rosalyn D'Mello is former editor-in-chief of Artinfo India, and the author of A Handbook For My Lover
Mainstream media is still the chief influencer but social media is increasingly challenging its hegemony. Laws are being rewritten, terms of engagement revised and rules of etiquette are undergoing a sea change due to a greater democratisation of voices. Social media is causing huge societal churning and some would cite Donald Trump's victory to argue that it is altering the course of history as well. For many though, it still remains an unknown beast.

While social media has been a great enabler, it has also been an equally potent disruptor. All of us have come across the term "trolls", that internet slang used loosely for agent provocateurs who are said to hunt in packs and subject their 'victims' to targeted abuse, attacks or incessant harangues. There have been divergent opinions about the usefulness of social media but almost near total convergence on "trolls"  that social media tools like Facebook or Twitter should find a way to limit their "nuisance".

And yet, questions remain.

Unlike the mainstream mediums, the new media is in a state of perpetual flux. These definitions, therefore, cannot be cast in stone and must be frequently challenged. Is social media a force for good, or evil? Do online behaviors require greater accountability? Are "trolls"  as Vir Sanghvi writes in Business Standard while reviewing a book on the subject  simply "lonely or socially dysfunctional men whose own sexual inadequacies lead them to be (often violently) misogynistic"? Do they exist only to abuse "famous people" and find an escape route from their "sad and solitary" existence?

Arnab Ray would disagree. The columnist and acclaimed author who has been traversing the social media universe for more than a decade and whose award-winning blog Random Thoughts of a Demented Mind is among India's most-read, believes that not all trolls are demented attention-seekers and some, in fact, are very intelligent people who have forced the "influencers" into placing a greater premium on facts. The phenomenon, he says during an interaction on Wednesday with food critic and blogger Poorna Banerjee at the ongoing Kolkata Literary Meet, is more pronounced in the context of Indian media.

"Most trolling is good," says Arnab, during the session titled Tweets, Trolls and LoLs held at the city's iconic Victoria Memorial. "They either point out your logical fallacies, inconsistencies in argument or errors of commission and omission." The point, says Arnab whose recent book Sultan of Delhi: Ascension has received rave reviews, is that while "many media mavens like to proclaim that they hold a mirror to power, they forget that media too is part of that power structure and a small subsection will hold a mirror to them. But they consider this as trolling."

Part of the problem lies in the fact that the "liberal" discourse has come to represent a specific political viewpoint and it enjoys a stifling monopoly in academia and mainstream media. However, with social media providing for a greater democratising of discourse, an alternative worldview has emerged. Questions are being asked and narratives are being challenged at every step. Assumptions are being contested and theories are facing greater scrutiny. Influencers, who are so used to talking down, are struggling to cope with the feedback. Many times, these discordant, disparate voices that lie at the intersection of free speech and democracy are simply termed "trolls" so that they may be dismissed from being taken seriously or bullied into silence.

In one of his past blogs on the subject (The Internet Hindus, Trolling And Other Matters), Ray writes: "I have always found it ironic to Ironman-levels that those who consider themselves liberal (and so by definition open to the other) are so pathologically opposed to alternative viewpoints polluting the ideological purity of the so-called moderate world-view. Anyone so much as suspected as having a saffron dot on their white shirt is shunted out, both in media organisations as well as in universities, particularly in the liberal arts."

But one must be careful about threats of a criminal nature. That is when dissent or argument crosses the line and becomes a criminal activity that must draw legal censure, says Ray. He has categorised these threats into different zones.

"For me, the bad kind of trolling is abuse. The kind you are subjected to if you mistakenly step onto someone's toes in a crowded bus. Those fall in what I call 'orange zone'. Death threats or rape threats fall in the 'red zone' and that becomes a law and order issue. It stops being trolling", he says.

Ray, who holds a PhD in Computer Science from State University of New York at Stony Brook and resides in the US, has closely followed the rise of Donald Trump. He calls the septuagenarian the world's first "social media President" because of the massive support he drew/continues to draw from the Alt-Right. While that has been partly made possible by the winds of change flowing across continents, Trump, he says, has manipulated masterfully the dissent against globalisation and has risen to power by telling people what they wanted to hear. Ironically, having benefited from American laws that protect free speech, Trump in his campaign had taken aim at the rights protected by First Amendment.

In India, though, the debate on free speech is stunted by the lack of legal heft in its favour, feels Ray. He dismisses the debate on 'intolerance'.

"Not intolerance, the problem in India is we don't have laws for free speech. Just by putting a lawsuit, anybody can stop someone from saying something. The rule of law has been subjugated by power."

Ray's analytical mind shines through. His courage in tackling convenient notions is a refreshing promise. We shall expect more from him.
We were performing at the Ambedkar statue in Mumbai. We sat there for almost 3-4 hours, spoke to the press. No one turned up to arrest us. Later, the leaders from the Kabir Kala Manch Bachao Samiti who were with us, took us to meet the then home minster RR Patil. We were formally arrested by the ATS (Anti-Terrorism Squad) only after the meeting. After four years, we are out on bail. We are finally able to breathe freely and can sing our songs without any censorship.

This is what Sagar Gorkhe and Ramesh Gaichor  members of the Kabir Kala Manch, who were arrested by the ATS for their alleged connection with Naxals  have to say. The Supreme Court granted them bail on 3 January 2017, four years after their arrest. They are now ready to get back to the streets with their new songs.

Kabir Kala Manch (KKM), a Pune-based cultural group, was formed in 2002 after the Gujarat riots. It was later branded as a Maoist front by the state ATS. The ATS accused KKM artistes of being in contact with Naxals and working as per the instructions of Angela Sontakke and her husband Milind Teltumbde, as an urban sleeper cell for the Naxalite movement. The charge sheet against the KKM artistes states that they had allegedly participated in arms training with 150 Naxals in the jungle areas of Gadchiroli in Maharashtra between November 2011 and April 2012. The ATS booked Sheetal Sathe, Sachin Mali, Ramesh and Sagar along with eight other members of KKM under Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Sheetal and Sachin staged a satyagraha in Mumbai and surrendered themselves to the police in 2013. Sagar and Ramesh, who were then on the run, decided to appear in public after Sheetal and Sachin's arrest. They staged a protest at the Ambedkar statue near the Mumbai Sessions Court and were later arrested by the ATS.

We never surrendered. When you are accused of being Naxals, the word 'surrender' has a different meaning. We had never committed any crime. So the question of 'surrendering' simply doesnt arise, they say. When the police started arresting members of the KKM, we decided to go into hiding out of fear. We were on the run for more than six months. We were not able to find a way out. Then we came to know about the Kabir Kala Manch Bachao Sangharsh Samiti. We met Anand Patwardhan ,one of the members of the Samiti, and then consulted a lawyer. They suggested that we should follow the procedure of the law and face the prosecution," Sagar adds.

After our arrest, we were taken to the Arthur Road Jail. We were strip searched and sent to the barracks. First they kept us in one of the barracks along with many other jail inmates. Some of them were smoking, some of them were spitting, It was dirty, filthy  something we were not used to. This couldve easily broken our morale. Later, we were shifted to the 'anda cell' in Taloja jail. It was a small, 6 x 12 room. It would get very lonely. They used to lock us up for most of the day. We could communicate with only the 12 people in the nearby barracks when we were allowed to go out for few hours. It was the struggle with the system and also the struggle within. We were still trying to come to terms with the fact that we had to spend time in this environment, Sagar recounts.

Ramesh says in prison, they found some respite in practising their art: We are artists. So the obvious form of expression for us was poetry. That is how we wrote our first song  it was about our condition inside the jail. It provided some relief, so we decided to keep writing.

Even then, there was a barrier presented in the form of censorship. Our only sources of information were the letters from our friends and the newspapers we read. But these were censored too... An officer in jail used to read the newspapers and cut out the part that he felt prisoners shouldnt read. But letters from friends provided information, based on which we wrote the songs. We used to send these songs back to our friends through letters. But once an officer read one of the songs while examining our letter. The officers were told that we might instigate people through our songs. So he simply refused to send it  without any logical or legal reason. That was when we realised that our songs were going to get censored too. But we had to keep writing and find ways out to send them so that our troupe could perform," says Sagar. These songs were later published as a book  Gajanadchi Sangharshagatha, meaning 'songs of struggle from prison.

When the High Court rejected their bail plea twice, the KKM members started to lose hope. Their lawyers, however, were optimistic and approached the Supreme Court.

"It was a routine day. We only knew that our bail plea would be heard in the Supreme Court. So we kept waiting for the update. We were told by a constable that according to news on television, Sachin Mali had been granted bail. We enquired if he knew anything about our case, but he didn't. We had asked one of the prisoners who was taken to court to check if there was any update. He came back but didnt tell us anything. We thought our plea was either rejected or not heard, as it was a separate application. Sagar was feeling restless and kept trying to communicate with the prisoner. But he simply ignored us. It was only after some time that he turned to us and calmly told us that bail had been granted. He wanted to dramatise it! Everyone burst into laughter after hearing this, says Ramesh.

They were released by the jail authorities after completing the necessary legal procedures. Their friends were waiting for them outside the jail premises. We went to a nearby tea stall with them and started singing. We were performing outside the prison walls, without any censorship or tension. No one was going to stop us. We were back with our team, say Sagar and Ramesh.

They were released after spending almost four years in prison. The Supreme Court observed that the investigating authorities had presented only one witness in court  out of the 147 witnesses mentioned in the charge sheet. This was cited as the prime reason for granting bail.

Ramesh and Sagar are set to perform again, under the KKM banner (the group has split, with Sheetal and Sachin forming their own troupe). They want to perform the songs they have penned during their jail term. But the struggle is far from over.

We are invited for performances, only to be told that it has been cancelled. Being branded as Naxals has ruined our lives, Sagar and Ramesh say. Sagar had to drop out of the final year of his BA Sociology course, while Ramesh  who was working as a professor at a Pune college  was forced to quit too. Getting our jobs back is simply a dream for us. But we want to keep performing. Our new songs are ready. People can understand only when we simplify things for them. This is why we have decided to explain and criticise the decision of demonetization through our new songs. Songs on other topics are ready too," says Ramesh, while Sagar adds, "We will keep fighting for justice. But we will continue to sing too."

"Peoples art is a weapon for liberation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi appeared a bit subdued by his standards as he addressed a big crowd seeking comfortable majority for his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the 4 February State Legislative Assembly Elections.

Modi arrived at 5 pm, a good one hour behind the schedule, spoke for half an hour and rounded it up quickly saying his chopper must take off before sunset.

However, he conveyed all that mattered to BJP and Goa, promising a new era of development and making Goa envy of other states if his party gets a comfortable majority.

He lavished praise on his cabinet minister Manohar Parrikar and thanked people for giving the nation a capable defence minister, reminding people of that surgical strike on terror camps in Pakistan happened with Parrikar at the helm of the defence ministry.

While Goa is still wondering who their new chief minister would be, if BJP manages to retain power, his praise for the Goa government over the past 25 years must have come as sweet music to an uncertain chief minister Laxmikant Parsekar. Without naming him, Modi said what the Goa government has done in the past 25 months is far bigger and better than anything done in the past 50 years.

Modi talked about his government's efforts to increase tourist footfall in India and said while his government's job is to attract foreign til risks, it is up to state governments to ensure their longer stay. He said Goa government has succeeded on this front which is bringing overall prosperity to people here.

He attacked opposition for their negative politics and said they are working harder than the federal finance minister to prepare policies to criticise the union budget, to he presented in Lok Sabha on 1 February, without knowing it's contents and teeming it as their advance surrender even before first ballot is cast in five poll bound states.

Modi defended his government's demonetisation policy saying it was pro-poor and anti corruption. He said his government's performance is being praised globally only because Indian voters elected a stable government at the centre. "Give us comfortable majority in Goa and I promise to make Goa india's number one state," Modi said.

Modi's rally is bound to infuse Goa BJP. Many who came to rally admitted they had come to see and hear the prime minister. They felt it would be up to local BJP leadership to cash in on the favourable atmosphere Modi managed to create.
Jammu: On 24 January, when the Opposition legislators from National Conference and Congress had walked out of the legislative council of the Jammu and Kashmir legislature, BJP lawmaker Ajatshatru Singh, grandson of Maharaja Hari Singh, moved a resolution demanding 23 September, the birthday of the last Dogra monarch of the state, to be declared a state holiday.

The resolution was passed with a voice vote in the House and was supported by members from both the coalition parties including the PDP MLC Vikramaditya Singh, another grandson of Maharaja Hari Singh. It was nothing short of a political masterstroke by two grandsons of Maharaja, who represent the two ideological poles of J&Ks political spectrum but are bound by blood relation.

Days later, the resolution has put the coalition government in a bind which has led to a new clash of narratives. Before asking his colleague in the legislative council to withdraw his resolution, PDP leader and education minister Naeem Akhtar said he is also of the opinion that not only a holiday but even more should be done in Maharajas memory.

Where do you find such diversity like our civil secretariat, where you can find a minister namely Lal Singh and his commissioner secretary is Mohammed Afzal. The seeds were sown by Maharaja Hari Singh, Akhtar, who is the government spokesman, said. His biggest contribution was that he connected people and regions.

The government, however, opposed the idea of having a holiday on Singhs birthday, but Ajatshatru insisted on a vote. The resolution moved by junior Singh said: This House resolves that 23 September, the birthday of HH Maharaja Hari Singh, the last Maharaja of the state, be declared as a state holiday as a mark of respect for him.

Every year on 13 July, Akhtar, like the majority of his party leaders and other politicians, visit Nowhatta area and pay tribute at Martyrs Graveyard, where 22 Kashmiris who fell to the bullets of Dogra soldiers lay buried. In Kashmir, the day is observed as a Martyrs Day to pay homage to those Kashmiris who were killed in 1931 in a revolt against the atrocities of the autocratic Dogra rule.

There is a consensus among the general public in Kashmir, including National Conference and Peoples Democratic Party, says political analyst Noor Mohammad Baba, that Maharaja Hari Singh was a cruel leader. That is the reason every year both PDP and NC leaders line up in Iddgah on 13 July which is observed as Martyrs Day.

This day is quite important as it marks the start of the first conscious political struggle against the despotic leader, Baba adds.

But in Jammu, the Hindu-majority region of the state, Maharaja Singh is a revered public figure. The resolution by his grandson has sparked a sort of euphoria here. The Maharaja is seen here as someone who was a social reformer and worked for women education and upliftment of weaker sections of the society.

Deputy Chief Minister Nirmal Singh too backed the idea and said Maharaja deserved the step taken by the Upper house. "Maharaja was a true nationalist and choose to go with India. When asked in the first round table conference of princely states of India about his (Maharaja's) decision to join which dominion, he said he will work in the service of the people of India," he said.

We have been demanding this for ages but no one listened to us, and this resolution is long pending of the people of Jammu and it should be fulfilled, Ravi Singh Slathia, State President of Akhil Bhartiya Kshatriya Mahasabha (ABKM), says.

But in Kashmir valley, Maharaja is an unpopular figure. Engineer Rasheed, the firebrand MLA from north Kashmirs Handwara district on Friday asked the government and opposition to clear their stand on the issue. He wanted them to choose either of the two events: Either the Martyrs Day of 13 July or Maharaja Hari Singhs birthday on 23 September.

How can we praise Sheikh Sahab and Maharaja at the same time, Rashid asked in the House. Tell us with whom you are.

The National Conference leader from Jammu, Davinder Singh Rana, had earlier supported the resolution but on Friday when the house met, the NC leader Akbar Lone said his party did not support the resolution. That might be the personal stand of Rana Sahab but the party does not stand with that, Lone said.

National Conference later on Friday staged a walkout from the upper house against the passage of the resolution. NC MLC Bashir Veeri said a plot was hatched to somehow keep the opposition out of the house and then the resolution was passed.

It was a ploy of the ruling PDP-BJP combination to get the resolution passed. We condemn this and firmly believe no monarch deserves to be celebrated, Veeri said.
Former chief minister and opposition National Conference leader Omar Abdullah has alleged that it is not the Agenda of Alliance document of ruling PDP-BJP coalition government, but National Security Advisor Ajit Dovals doctrine which is being implemented in the state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Omar was speaking in the legislative assembly on Saturday where he made specific reference to a speech delivered by NSA Doval in Hyderabad, in 2008, on the unrest in the valley. He said there was no difference in Dovals speech and the way present government, led by Mehbooba Mufti, was managing the crises in the valley.

Had you handled the situation according to Agenda of Alliance, the situation would have been entirely different today. But you are going by Dovals doctrine, Omar said in the legislative assembly while speaking on the motion of grants.

The way Doval suggested in that lecture: how to stop protests and deal with separatists, and how it should not be accepted that there is a political problem in the valley and how to deal Pakistan, you are following it all in letter and spirit, he added.

The five months of summer unrest in Kashmir was triggered after the death of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani on 8 July, who was killed in a short encounter in south Kashmir. His death sparked protest across the valley and close to 100 people were killed during protests and more than 12,000 civilians were injured in firing by the forces. Two security personnel were also been killed while hundreds were injured.

The PDP-BJP government launched a massive crackdown against agitating leaders and stone pelters. Kashmir police arrested over 7,000 people in the Valley while more than 500 were booked under the Public Safety Act (PSA).

There can be only one thing: either you work according to Agenda of Alliance or follow the path set by Ajit Doval, Omar said speaking on the states Home department grants, which is held by the chief minister.

He said during his tenure as chief minister of the state, although there were few attacks carried out by militants, but whenever there was one on an army installation the BJP would leave no stone unturned to blame him, and the then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, for the security lapse and burn his the effigies.

But I am stunned today at their (BJPs) silence, after 2008, most of the attacks have happened in 2016, there is no place in the state where militants have not attacked, be it Pathankot, Uri, or Akhnooor.

Omar, who is also the working president of the National Conference, said Mehbooba Mufti has created an image for herself for being pro-separatist, that her attitude towards militants is soft. He said the plan has badly been exposed and the number of militants killed in 2016 is highest in the recent years.

But look at the numbers. A number of militants killed in 2016, under your rule, has seen a tremendous rise. It is almost impossible to believe that if you were soft separatist, then how did this number of militants killed in just one year went so up, he said.

He further added that state government had earlier said that if they would have known that Wani, the militant commander, was present in the house, where the encounter took place, they would have preferred to have him surrendered.

On one side, you talk about amnesty for local militants and on the other side Burhan Wanis killers are awarded gallantry medals,

He also blamed BJP of using Judiciary to abrogate article 370 and criticised the way state attorneys handle cases while defending the state cases in the state's interest. BJP is not silent on Article 370, they are not using legislature but judiciary.

He asked Mehbooba to show a single developmental work which she could showcase as an achievement of her government during last two years.
Thiruvananthapuram: Congress on Saturday attacked ruling CPI(M) and BJP over continuing incidents of political violence in Kannur district and asked Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to relinquish the Home portfolio, saying the department has 'lost' control over the police.

Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee President V M Sudheeran accused both the parties of trying to turn Kerala, known for its peaceful life, into a strife-torn state and urged their activists to lay down arms.

Both parties should stop the blame game and try to fulfil their responsibility to people, he told a press meet in Thiruvananthapuram.

"Both CPI(M) and BJP are on the path of violence. Political murders are happening back to back. Political violence and clashes galore. Amassing of weapons have become widespread. Both CPI(M) and BJP are doing all these," he said.

The KPCC President's statement comes two days after a bomb was hurled near the venue of a public meeting of CPI(M) state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan in Kannur.

Ten persons belonging to BJP-RSS had been taken into custody in this connection on Friday.

Urging the leadership of both parties to restrain their cadres from indulging in violence, Sudheeran also said police had not been able to function effectively to check crimes including murders and political clashes.

"The Home Department has lost control over police. It has already been proved that Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan cannot handle the Home Department effectively. So, he should not delay relinquishing the Home portfolio," the leader added.

He also asked the state government to take immediate steps to check the price hike of rice in the market and continue the existing ration system in the state.
GREIFSWALD, Germany German Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Friday that security would be a major issue in the campaign leading up to a federal election on Sept. 24, in which she is seeking a fourth term.Concern about security is widespread in Germany after more than a million migrants, mostly from the Middle East and Africa, entered the country over the past two years. That, along with several attacks carried out by migrants, has widened support for the anti-immigrant Alternative for Germany (AfD) party."People feel that a lot of things are changing. I think the issue of security will play a key role in the coming months," Merkel said at a meeting of her conservative Christian Democrats (CDU) in the northeastern city of Greifswald.She said that was true of social security as well as domestic and external security.

A Forschungsgruppe Wahlen poll published on Friday showed the CDU and its Bavarian sister party - the Christian Social Union (CSU) - would together win 36 percent of the vote if the election were held on Sunday.

The poll put the conservatives' junior coalition partner, the Social Democrats (SPD), on 24 percent.Merkel said she was optimistic that her CDU and the CSU would be able to come up with a joint election programme. The two parties have frequently been at odds over how to deal with the migrant influx.

(Reporting by Reuters TV; Writing by Michelle Martin)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
Mumbai bats in the high league of the urban places. It has a huge population, although it is constrained when it comes to space. Its civic body has enormous financial resources, larger than several small states. It generates a lot of revenue for the Centres coffers and remains the magnet for those seeking livelihood, skilled and unskilled alike.

Whenever elections to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), are held, less than half the people on the voter rolls turn up at polling booths. Then the politicians take over, running wild with their own political-economic agendas, with nary a concern for the city.

Over the years, some additions have been made to the citys infrastructure either by the civic body or other parastatals: flyovers, east-west link roads, augmentation of commuter train capacities, a metro and a monorail, and even housing stock, although that was provided for the rich by the private sector.

Although statistics point to a decline in slum population, partly due to patently inadequate rehabilitation efforts and a lower rate of influx, has the city come anywhere close to being Shanghai, Singapore, or Hong Kong? The politicians and decision-makers dream of Mumbai as a world class city, but has it made the lives of its citizens easier? Each resident would say just one simple word: No. Life in Mumbai is a struggle. Always has been, in a city hostile to new arrivals.

Land has been routinely recycled to account for the ever-rising population. During the British era, land was, in a manner of speaking, reclaimed from the sea and marshes. Then it was procured from demolishing defunct or loss-making textile mills. Now it is obtained by redeveloping old buildings to accommodate more residents and profiting by building new structures where slums previously stood. All of this has led to haphazard use of land.

The second question: will any political party, either the one in the saddle for almost two decades, or another, bring some tangible improvement to the city? Chances are, any improvements would be notional. In all likelihood, the city will continue to tread water instead of moving forward.

Apart from its own shortfalls and the sloth of those managing it, Mumbai is burdened by those who come from far and wide to earn a living, as evinced by our commuter trains. Since housing is expensive, people who come to Mumbai to earn a living dont live in the city  they stay in the extended suburbs and satellite towns  and when they visit, they put an enormous pressure on the infrastructure, which simply cant cope.

Consequently, if one were to confine our perspective to only the municipal limits, anyone commuting from the business districts to Mulund, Mankhurd, and Dahisar is forced to compete for space on the overcrowded trains with those from neighbouring urban spaces: there are at least eight municipal corporation cities in the metropolitan region apart from smaller towns.

This contention, however, is not to deny the suburban residents their right to livelihood in Mumbai. The attempt here is to explain how the economic opportunities have not been developed across the region, the absence of which, makes things worse for Mumbai.

For many, Mumbai and its neighbouring areas arent places to live but simply places to earn a living, which is why all buses in Thane converge on its station  to allow its people to travel to Mumbai. Only a fraction of the population in these towns and cities can find employment in their neighbourhood.

No serious attempt has been made to end, or even significantly alter this rims-spokes-and-hub character of metropolitan Mumbai. Even an inter-city bus route excluding Mumbai from its purview to ease the burden on the local trains has not been tried as the civic bodies that run the intra-city services are plagued by shortage of funds as well as an absence of will. These municipalised transport entities are simply platforms for rent-seekers.

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority hasnt examined this problem hard enough. Only now has it begun to look at satellite cities and towns. Managing Mumbai not only means improving the conditions but ensuring that the burdens on the city are mitigated. This can be done by empowering others to provide economic opportunities for those who choose to live elsewhere but depend on Mumbai to earn their living.
Mumbai: Hitting out at Shiv Sena which snapped ties with BJP for the local body polls, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said, on Friday, his party had no qualms about fighting on lesser number of seats in the BMC elections, but was firm on transparency in the Sena-controlled civic body.

"Like them (the Sena) I will not say that 25 years have been wasted with the alliance. I will only say that we learnt a lesson that we caused a loss to Mumbai all this while.

"I had told all BJP leaders who were negotiating that we should be willing to fight for a lesser number of seats (in BMC) but we will not compromise in having transparency and accountability in Sena's style of functioning," he said.

Fadnavis was addressing a gathering of BJP workers, as part of 'Vijay Sankalp Melava' (Resolve for Victory Rally), the same venue where Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray had on 26 January declared that his party will go it alone in the local body polls.

Holding Sena responsible for the break-up of the alliance in the run up to the 2014 Assembly polls, Fadnavis claimed the party was adamant on not contesting a seat less than 191 (out of 288 seats).

"But I thank my stars today that the alliance did not happen (before the polls). Had it happened, I would not have been the Chief Minister today. We could realise our strength only because we fought alone," he said.

Questioning Sena's criticism of BJP when it sought transparency in the BMC controlled by the Thackeray-led party, Fadnavis asked, "Did I say something wrong? Why was I chided? People had voted us to power only on the issue of transparency. Why was this agenda not acceptable to you."

Who should be held responsible for slums in Mumbai that are deprived of water and electricity connections, he asked, and alleged, "There is no scheme to treat waste water. And due to BMC's inefficiency, the city has deteriorated environmentally."

On the contrary, the BJP government during its two years in power has made the city equipped with CCTV cameras, Wi-Fi connections and large amount work on the Metro has been done, Fadnavis claimed.

"We conceived the idea of elevated corridors to ease the congestion of trains and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region is being developed. We are integrating all modes of transport and looking at a single ticket issuing system.

"A person, at any point in the city should find a public mode of transport within 500 metres of his standing place," he said.

Terming Sena's stand on the coastal road project a "hypocrisy", Fadnavis alleged on one hand the party said it will be built by BMC and on the other, it was discreetly telling farmers to oppose the project as it would impact their livelihood.

"Similar hypocrisy was shown during Metro-4 project. People were told that we will displace Marathi people," he alleged.

Referring to Sena's poster campaigns, Fadnavis said the party may say "they have done it", but the real satisfaction will be in people saying "yes you have done it".

Fadnavis said his government initiated the BDD chawl redevelopment project, where people have been promised much bigger houses than that they are living in now.

"You talk of Chhatrapati Shivaji's Hindutva ideology. But Chhatrapati Shivaji had the same respect for other religions as he had for Hindutva. If you do not believe in what he said, you have no right to take his name," he said.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray had on 26 January said his party will contest the upcoming elections to municipal corporations and zilla parishads on its own.

While snapping ties with his ally, Thackeray had said that his party had wasted 25-years due to alliance with BJP.
It seems that all the political parties in Pune are set to face the election solo in the upcoming civic polls. The talks for a Shiv Sena and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) alliance have already failed. While the Nationalist Congress Party and the Indian National Congress seem hopeful for an alliance, they are also heading for the last round of talks.

The Shiv Sena's Pune unit is in a celebratory mood ever since Uddhav Thackrey announced on Thursday that his party will not be forming an alliance with the BJP in the upcoming zilla parishad and municipal corporation elections, a request they had made to the party supremo in a meeting held two days ago.

Talks for the Sena-BJP alliance had begun on a positive note three weeks ago. But after two rounds of talks, they seemed to have reached to a conclusion that this alliance wouldnt help. A seat sharing formula was not even discussed between the leaders. "We are ready with our lists of candidates and are just waiting for the formal announcement of the breakup," the leaders in both the parties would say every time the question of a pre-poll alliance was brought up. But now with the alliance talks over, the city unit is preparing its final list of candidates

"If the need is, we will think of a post-poll alliance with other parties, but an alliance with the BJP is out of the question now, said Sena city chief Vinayak Nimhan. "The alliance came with a cost during last civic polls. This time we are ready to prove our true strength," he added.

Puneites had voted for "shat pratishad BJP" (100 percent BJP) in the parliamentary and Assembly polls. BJP is leaving no stone unturned to ensure a win in the civic polls as well. They had begun the talks for alliance on this note. But their failure to reach a conclusion on seat-sharing in Mumbai has resulted in a breakup of the alliance in Pune as well. Now, city core committee meetings are being held to finalise the list of candidates.

The BJP had come to power in the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) by forming an alliance with NCP and Shiv Sena, often termed as a unique "Pune pattern". This continued for two and half years, but with the NCP-Congress alliance forming government at the state level after the 2009 Assembly election, the BJP never emerged as a single largest party in PMC. Now, with a BJP government at the Centre and at the state level, the party is hopeful of a win in the civic polls as well.

But it is not going to be a cakewalk for BJP. Pune is known as NCP bastion with NCP emerging as the single largest party consecutively in the last two civic polls. It was only because of a tiff between NCP leader Ajit Pawar and Congress leader Suresh Kalmadi that an alliance with the BJP and Shiv Sena was formed in 2007.

The leader we had problems with isnt in the picture anymore, Pawar said hinting at Kalmadi. "So, now we are positive about an alliance with Congress and are sure that the talks would conclude on a positive note," he added.

But that doesnt seem to be as easy as suggested as four rounds of talks between Congress and NCP have failed. Congress had sent a proposal to NCP offering 91 seats and demanding 71 seats for itself. However, NCP being the single largest party had refused the proposal and had offered only 46 seats to Congress. After four rounds of talks between the leaders in the city and one amongst the senior leaders from the state, they are still not able to find a way out.

"The problem is with 14 panels that both the parties want to contest from," said a senior Congress leader who was part of the discussion. "No one is ready to back out. Another round of talks will be held today and if this fails we will go solo," he added.

The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) seems to have lost its sheen in the city too. Many of the MNS corporators have opted for other parties this time. Retaining the present seats itself is a big challenge for the party. "We have a strong cadre, and are also ready with a list of strong candidates," MNS supremo Raj Thackrey had claimed when he was in the town for the inauguration of party's election office. But till date, the party has not released their list of candidates.

The NCP had emerged as the single largest party in the last election with 51 seats followed by MNS with 29 seats. The Congress bagged 28 seats while the BJP won 26 seats. The Shiv Sena had won 15 seats and RPI won two. And, a lone independent candidate had supported the NCP.

As many as 162 corporators will be elected to PMC on 21 February. There will be 39 four-ward panels and two three-ward panels to elect a total of 162 corporators to the civic body.

With just a few days left for polling, aspirants have started to get restless since parties are still waiting to declare the lists.

Who will emerge as the single largest party in the upcoming election? Will there be a need for Post poll alliance? What do Puneites have in their mind? Answers to these questions will only be clear on 23 February.
Jalalabad: Rahul Gandhi on Saturday stepped up his attack against the ruling Badals, calling Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal a "symbol of corruption" and asking Prime Minister Narendra Modi to clear the air on why he was seeking votes for the "corrupt" if he was fighting against the menace.

Rahul, who on Friday began his election tour to poll-bound Punjab, on Saturday addressed a poll rally in the pocket borough of Sukhbir Badal in Jalalabad, from where the SAD president is seeking re-election.

The Nehru-Gandhi scion attacked the Akalis for allegedly plundering Punjab and appealed people to vote for the Congress in the 4 February polls "to transform Punjab".

Attacking Sukhbir Badal and Modi, Rahul said, "On one hand there is the Akali Dal and on the other hand there is Narendra Modi. Mr Modi comes here (to Punjab) and says he is against corruption and is fighting against corruption."

"Sab say zyada brashtachar Hindustan main ek pradesh main hota hain. Aur us brashtchar ka koyee chin hain, koyee nishan hain, toh uska naam Sukhbir Badal hain. (In India, maximum corruption takes place in one state. And if there is any symbol of this corruption, it is Sukhbir Singh Badal)," Rahul said launching a sharp attack on Sukhbir, who is five-time CM Prakash Singh Badal's son.

Attacking Modi in the same breath, Rahul said, "Modi comes here (to Punjab), delivers speech and says he is against corruption and has waged a war against it. Modi tells people here is Sukhbir Badal, you support him, vote for him and re-elect him."

"On one hand, Modi says he is fighting corruption and on the other hand he is trying to help India's most corrupt person. So, Mr Modi, tell us clearly if you are fighting against corruption, then why are you standing by Sukhbir Badal. Why are you helping him. Entire Punjab knows Sukhbir Badal is a symbol of corruption, but you say no no he is not a symbol of corruption. Now, whether people are right or whether you (Modi) are right, we will come to know in polls," he said.

Rahul said the ruling Badals had "plundered" the State for their own interests. "They have ruined the State by controlling everything here. The youth is unemployed while the industry is in shambles," he charged.

He promised that if Congress forms the government in Punjab, then the regime led by Amarinder Singh, will bring a tough law to tackle the drug problem.

Rahul said Congress delivers what it promises to the people unlike other parties who allegedly betray people after coming to power.

Attacking Arvind Kejriwal and AAP, Rahul said the Delhi chief minister had promised to voters that he will transform Delhi if his party comes to power there, but "now various sections were up against them for befooling the people".

"Ask autorickshaw wallahs, slum dwellers, safai karamcharis, poor, they will tell you the reality," he said hitting out at AAP.

Rahul also said that Kejriwal knows fully well that his game is over in Delhi and he is facing public wrath there, which is why now he wants to become "Punjab's CM".

He, however, said that people of Punjab will never chose an "outsider".

Rahul also said that Congress has always stood for and will always stand for the welfare of the poor, downtrodden, Dalits, small farmers, labourers and other weaker sections and appealed to the public to give the party a chance to serve them in Punjab.

He also talked about the problems faced by the common people in the wake of demonetisation.

Notably, Jalalabad Assembly constituency is witnessing a high-profile contest this time, with two MP of rival parties throwing their hat in the ring to take on Sukhbir Badal.

While Congress has fielded its Ludhiana MP Ravneet Singh Bittu to take on Sukhbir Badal, AAP has fielded its Sangrur MP Bhagwant Mann from the seat.

Rahul on Friday began his Punjab tour by addressing a rally at Majitha, from where Cabinet Minister and Punjab Deputy CM Sukhbir Badal's brother-in-law, Bikram Singh Majithia is seeking re-election for third term.
A day after Indian National Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi announced Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee president Captain Amarinder Singh as the face of the party in Punjab, Delhi chief minister and AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal has ventured into Captain Amarinder Singh's home turf of Patiala. CNN-News18 spoke to the Delhi chief minister on Captain Singh, AAP's Punjab ambitions, his tussle with the Election Commission and his antagonistic relationship with the prime minister. Edited excerpts from the interview:

CNN-News18: Rahul Gandhi has said that Captain Amarinder Singh is going to be Congress's CM candidate  don't you think that it is going to energise the Congress, and Congress will consolidate?

Arvind Kejriwal: What was the need for the Congress that just a few days before elections, it had to declare him (Captain Amarinder Singh ) as CM candidate? What has happened that Congress had to announce a CM candidate? The reason is Congress is losing very badly. So, they thought that if they declare a CM candidate, their chances will improve. But the people of Punjab have made up their mind. Forget about declaring Captain as the CM candidate, if they declare him as the PM candidate also, nothing will change. Even God cannot save the Congress. No one can save the Congress. Today, you saw at the road show Captain Saab is losing from his own constituency, kahan ke CM, kaise CM? (CM of where? CM of what?) Captain is losing from Patiala and from Lambi, and (he is) losing badly. There will be no gains from this.

You are a political opponent. Of course, you will say that Captain is losing. But he is not expected to lose from Patiala?

No. The people are saying that. You were there, you spoke with people. Toh janta ne bola aap ko aam aadmi ko vote de rahi hai (The people told you they are voting for the AAP).

Sir, there is a strong undercurrent for the AAP, yes, but Patiala is Captain's home turf...

Was (Captain's home turf ). This time people want change. Everybody wants change. Change from Congress, Akali, BJP. Change from the existing political system that has pushed Punjab into drugs. Where was Captain when drugs were sold in Punjab? What was the Captain doing for ten years? People say drugs began to be sold during his time. Three years ago, when Majithia was about to be arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Captain approached Sonia Gandhi to save Majithia. And in return, they took back all the cases against the Captain. People are tired of this. Earlier they did not have a choice, now they do  a neat and clean and good option that has emerged from within the people. People will vote for them.

When Captain took on Prakash Singh Badal from Lambi, you said that it was a fixed match because he was dividing the anti-incumbency vote. And before that, you said it was a fixed match because he never took on big leaders. How can you have it both ways?

No, no  I am saying if he had to fight really, he should have left Patiala. Bhagwant Mann is fighting from one seat, Jarnail Singh is contesting from one seat but Captain is fighting from Patiala and Lambi. One newspaper asked him why was he fighting from two seats. He said he is fighting from Patiala to win. So, from Lambi, he is not fighting to win. He is fighting to make Parkash Singh Badal win. This is something that he has admitted.

By declaring Amarinder Singh as the CM candidate, has the Congress not stolen one of your weapons? Because you always said that Sidhu will be the Congress's CM candidate, that he was promised. So, that question has been settled?

Let them steal all our weapons, even then the Congress is not going to win. People have made up their minds. People want to move away from this old politics. People want to build a new Punjab, a Punjab of their hopes and dreams. Congress/BJP/Akali Dal are all the same... same characters, same friendships. They get married amongst each other. They have relationship with each other. Majithia is Captain's nephew. Yeh saare mile hue hain (they're all in it together). People want to put an end to their politics.

What about AAP? The AAP has not declared a CM face here. Why is it that you have not declared a CM face here when you have done that in Goa?

That will be decided after the elections. All the MLAs will sit together and decide.

What is the reason that you have not decided?

Different states have different strategies.

We are getting to hear four names: Jarnail Singh, Bhagwant Mann, HS Phoolka and Himmat Singh Shergill?

MLAs will decide.

Is that not one of the factors in your party's campaign that has out you on the backfoot? Is that not a political risk you are taking by not declaring a CM face?

The people are not asking us who will be the CM, only the media is interested, people are happy. We have worked in Delhi with honesty. They want that in Punjab also.

In all your speeches you say that you will stand guarantee for all your manifesto promises that your party has made. Does this not point to a leadership vaccuum in Punjab?

People have faith in me. People believe, Kejriwal kattar imaandar hai, usko duniya ki koi bhi takat khareed nahi sakti (Kejriwal is an honest man. No power on this earth can buy him). And there is a second factor. People believe, Jo woh kehta hai, woh karta hai, apni baat as mukar nahi jaata, jhoot nahi bolta hai (He does what he says. He does not go back on his word. He does not lie). That is why I am the guarantee of the manifesto promises.

Why not project one strong face in Punjab?

Now the party feels, it should be decided after the elections. Let the MLAs decide.

You have locked horns with the Election Commission  you have again tweeted reacting to them restraining you from making the statement, "donon partiyon se note loh, lekin aam aadmi party ko vote do". In that you are attacking an institution?

I am not attacking any institution. I am reminding them of their responsibility. Everyone in Punjab will acknowledge that money is being distributed. Where is the EC? Is the EC sleeping? Can't they see that money is being distributed? EC is not telling them anything. I am saying whoever comes to distribute the money, take the money from them but vote for us.

What is the wrong thing I have said? EC is forbidding me to say that. Does the EC want me to say, "Give your vote to whoever gives you money?" EC mil gaya hai in partyion ke saath (EC is with these parties). Point out what is the wrong thing that I have said. I have said: Paise donon partiyon se lena lekin vote hume dena (Take money from both parties but vote for us). We did that in Delhi. People took money from BJP, Congress but voted for us. If the same thing happens in one or two more elections, parties will stop distributing money. They will feel they are losing their money.

I am doing the work of the EC, I am finishing bribery. EC, by stopping me, is encouraging bribery. EC has threatened me, "If you repeat this we will withdraw your symbol". A van belonging to the Akali Dal was caught, EC does not withdraw their symbol... money, liquor is being distributed but their symbols are not withdrawn. And they will withdraw our symbols? EC should do its duty. The way EC is behaving... they declared elections on the fifth... why? Because Modi ji has to speak on the third. So, now you will declare elections according to Modiji? Why are elections in Punjab and Goa held on the same day? The entire country knows the reason. Is the Election Commission independent now? EC belongs to the people of this country not to two-three people. If those sitting in that chair will not respect that, people of this country will raise their voice.

Sir but you are an elected chief minister  you are expected to be acting according to certain norms...

Tell me what norms have I violated. I have not indulged in any violence. It is my duty to raise my voice against wrong practices within the boundaries of the Constitution. If any wrong is being done, I will raise my voice.

They expect that you should show more respect...

Respect has to be earned. If your deeds don't command respect, how will we respect you? When TN Sheshan was there, when Lyngdoh Saab was there, everyone respected them. Now, no one respects the EC.

Sir, you are casting very strong aspersions against the EC...

I have been saying this for the past ten days. This is not the first time. Don't you see that the date announcement was not correct. They did the same thing in Delhi also. On 10 January, Modiji had to address a rally in Ramlila Maidan... (and then EC declared dates)... so, now dates of elections will be decided by the election commission according to the schedule of Modiji's speeches? Is this the independence of the election commission. That means dates are being decided by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), not the EC.

Deputy CM Sukhbir Badal has targeted you on two counts  by saying that you are from outside and that you have links with extremists...

Sukhbir Badal is saying all the NRIs who are coming  all of them are extremists. How can that be? When plane-loads of NRIs had arrived, he said that they are bringing extremists. Are all Punjabi NRIs extremists? All of them left Punjab due to compulsion, because Badals and Captain together had destroyed Punjab so much that they did not have an option. Now, they are coming back to help Punjab progress and they are being called extremists? This is shameful!

Captain Amarinder Singh has called you a sneaky little fellow, a slimy little fellow...

Let him say that. Buzurg hain toh gaali dete hai toh namashkar. Koi baat nahi (Even if our elders insult us it's like they're blessing us. No matter).

There are reports that the Congress is consolidating among the Hindus. Does that worry you?

No that is not true. I don't know who has told you that Congress is consolidating... media gives more space to the Congress, media gives us little space. Within the people, there is no Congress.

You are absolutely sure that there is no threat from the Congress party?

Understand this. Our fight is not against the Congress, our fight is that of the people against corruption and drugs. People are seeing a new ray of hope in AAP. Understand one thing  in Punjab, this election has gone out of the hands of parties and politicians  Yeh Kejriwal ki pahunch se, Captain ki pahunch se, Badalon ki pahunch se, Bhagwant Mann ki pahunch se bahar hai, yeh chunav ab janta ladh rahi hai (This is out of Kejriwal's hands, Captain's hands, Badals' hands, Bhagwant Mann's hands. The people are fighting this election). This is an election of hope.

Your party has had a bumpy ride in Punjab, hasn't it? You had to suspend two MPs, you had to suspend Succha Singh Chhotepur . Looking back, do you think it had a negative impact on people? The rise became tougher for you, to rebuild the image and establish hope in the minds of people?

There are ups and downs.

Would you have wanted things to be different?

Maybe, some things could have been done differently? I cannot comment on individual incidents now.

In case there is a hung assembly, would you support or take the support of any party?

Which report is saying this?

There are some reports. Some opinion polls?

Which report?

I cannot remember exactly which....

All false. You also know.

There is a wave for AAP in Malwa... but in Majha...

It is not a wave for AAP... it is a wave for hope. Please try and understand that. That hope is very strong. Like you asked, can Congress consolidate in one week? Is the Congress hope? Is there hope from the Congress? No. This is an election of hope. People have made up their minds. It cannot be reversed now. In such an election, umeed ki chunav (election of hope), people give decisive verdicts  either for Congress or for AAP

But just in case there is a hung assembly sir?

It is a theoretical question.

So you definitely don't want to commit now?

No, no... I am committing. There will be no understanding with any party. But I am saying the question is theoretical. There is no question of any gathbandhan (tying up with another party).

What will be the next steps for your party?

People will decide. In the case of Punjab also, people decided. Wherever people want us we will fight from there.

Going through your Twitter handle, like on Republic day, you said that the PM has asked the CBI to raid your department and seize papers?

They came on 20 January. They took away all the files of our feedback unit. Tell me, is this a Republic? Is this a federal structure? Every single day, CBI takes away files of one of our departments. Why is Modiji so negative? Why is he after us?

You have had an antagonistic relationship with the PM... is there anything positive you see in him?

Matlab woh agar than le na  isko chhodna nahi, badla lena hai, toh chodte nahi usko (If he decides he wants to get after someone, take revenge upon them, he doesn't leave them). Matlab bahut (I mean he's very) vindictive hain. Bahut zyada (Far too) vindictive.

Is that a positive thing?

Pata nahi (I don't know)  I can't think of anything. Can you suggest something?

You are turning the question to me... a question is not the answer.

I can't think of anything positive that he has done in the past two years.

Nothing at all?

I can't think of anything.

My last question: How important is Punjab for you?

You had only tweeted... that people of Punjab opted for us... Arvind Kejriwal is not important, Aam Aadmi Party is not important. Whatever we are doing, we are doing it for the state, for the country. The question that you asked, "how important it is for us?" For us, every part of the country is important. We came into politics out of compulsion, not out of choice. Wherever people want us, we will work hard... that is our duty... the rest is up to God.
Lucknow: Congress Vice-President Rahul Gandhi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav would jointly address a press conference in Lucknow on Sunday after which they will take out a road show, a minister said.

"The events would be to show we are coming together and display ourselves as a united force for the state assembly elections," Cabinet Minister in the Uttar Pradesh government and Samajwadi Party (SP) spokesman Rajendra Chowdhary said.

The roadshow will begin from the GPO Park, near the Gandhi state, will go through the Mayfair roundabout to Lalbagh, Novelty roundabout and then weave its way to Qaiserbagh through Muslim dominated areas like Aminabad and old city.

The Gandhi scion and the National President of the Samajwadi Party will then go to Nakkhas, Chowk, Ghantaghar where the road show will conclude.

Adequate security arrangements are being made for the high-profile road show. This would be the first outing of the two leaders after the alliance between the Congress and the Samajwadi Party was announced.

The Congress is contesting 105 seats while the ruling Samajwadi Party is contesting 298 seats. Uttar Pradesh will be voting for a new state assembly in a seven-phase election, voting for which begins on 11 February and concludes on 8 March.
Reactivating its Ram Mandir bandwagon, the BJP on Saturday released its election manifesto promising to waive off loans of small and marginal farmers and distributing laptops to the youth amid assurances of working for the all-round development of Uttar Pradesh, ahead of the state polls.

Loaded with the promises of development and, to an extent, freebies, the Bharatiya Janata Party launched its manifesto for Uttar Pradesh Assembly Election. Hitting out at the consecutive rules of Samajwadi Party-Bahujan Samajwadi Party in Uttar Pradesh, BJP national president Amit Shah said that the state was relegated by a span of 15 years when it comes to development. He also said that the BJP, if elected to power, will make up for the losses of past 15 years in just five years.

"UP has been plundered by SP and BSP for 15 years; We have come with a pledge to transform the state," Shah said.

However, what drew the attention of the most was the return of the Ram Mandir agenda in the BJP manifesto. Saving the announcement for the end, Shah concluded his speech by pledging to work towards the construction of Ram Temple "under the provisions of the Constitution." He, however, declined to elaborate on the steps the BJP government would take in the direction.

The manifesto, called 'Lok Kalyan Sankalp Patra' (Pledge for People's Welfare), also promises to press for taking forward its view on the triple talaq in the Supreme Court.

"The party is firm on the Ram temple issue...efforts will be made to ensure that Ram temple is constructed under the constitutional provisions," Shah said.

On the contentious issue of triple talaq, Shah said the party, on coming to power, will take views of women and present its opinion before the Supreme Court.

Shah also made some apparent references to the alleged Kairana 'exodus', without naming the issue or any particular community in his speech. However, he ensured to mention prominently in his speech, the steps the BJP will take to prevent the "migration of certain communities" in "Western Uttar Pradesh."

BJP's sitting MP from Kairana in Shamli District of Western UP, Hukum Singh had alleged that scores of Hindu families have been forced to migrate out of the city, by the local goons of another community. The issue was expected to be raked up to garner votes in the communally sensitive regions of Western Uttar Pradesh, which includes Shamli.

Shah, in his speech promised to hold the district collector responsible for any cases of forced migration and said that a special team consisting of police officers and the collector will be formed to look into the issue.

Meanwhile, he also maintained that all the developmental schemes promised in the BJP manifesto will be implemented without any differentiation on the basis of caste or religion.

In a battery of election promises, Shah promised a special focus on drought-hit Bundelkhand region of the state, that is seen as one of the most scantily developed area.

Releasing the manifesto in Lucknow, Shah said the Uttar Pradesh was left behind in the race for development.

"I appeal to the people to give us one opportunity and we promise to turn UP into a developed state," said Shah.

The party promised to create a fund of Rs 150 crore for agricultural development in the next five years.

Shah also sought to repackage some of the schemes existing in the state, introduced by the ruling Samajwadi Party.

Taking a cue from SP, Shah promised to upgrade the Dial 100 of the state police to ensure police help in 15 minutes all over the state. Stressing that if voted to power, his party will take one

step ahead of the Samajwadi Party's laptop distribution scheme by providing 1 GB free data for one year besides free wi-fi in universities.

To ensure the safety of college girls, innovative anti- Romeo squads will be set up near colleges to check eve- teasing. Besides, three women battalions will be raised for security of women, the document said.

"Will distribute laptops to youth with 1 GB free internet if voted to power in UP," said Shah.

Seeking to hit out at it's opponents, Shah also invoked the phrase 'Bimaru,' coined in the 1980's to refer to India's least developed states. 'Bimaru' acronym for Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh, is phonetically similar to the Hindi word bimar, which means sick.

Shah said that the Bimaru states that elected a BJP governemnt in the past are now rid of the tag, while adding that the BJP will transform UP into a progressive state within just five years.

The BJP president blamed the Akhilesh Yadav-led SP government for impeding development schemes implemented by the Centre, while adding that only a BJP leadership at both helms can change UP.

He also took hard on the Congress-SP alliance stating that such strategies cannot fool the voters and Akhilesh will remain answerable for the law and order situation, which he claimed was at its nadir.

"Akhilesh Yadav will have to answer for problems faced by the state where the "ruling party goondas have grabbed land"; merely entering into alliance will not hoodwink people," Shah said.

Shah promised a slew of measures to woo farmers. Apart from promising a complete loan waiver for small farmers, Shah claimed that the BJP governemnt will ensure zero interest loans for small farmers and labourers in the informal sector.

He promised to clear pending payments of sugarcane farmers, while adding that the BJP is elected to power will ensure that the sugar mills hand out a post dated check right at the time of delivery.

On the front of law and order also, the party made tall claims. BJP promised to crack down on corruption as well. Its manifesto entails the creation of special task forces to weed out mining mafias, land mafias, and all other organised crime nexuses. Shah even vowed to immediately fill all empty posts in the police force.

In the field of education, apart from promising a "world class" Sanskrit university named after Madan Mohan Malviya, the BJP reiterated promises of scholarships and aides for meritorious students from economically weaker section of the society.

The manifesto promised free education up to Class 12 and waiver of fees up to graduation level to meritorious students.

Before unveiling the document, Shah said, "We have tried to take views and aspirations of a cross section of people and in the process contacted people through different means (before drafting the manifesto)."

BJP is going hammer and tongs to return to power in UP after 15 years. In 2012, it had won only 47 of the state's 403 seats, but in the 2014 national election, it swept 71 of the state's 80 Lok Sabha seats and hopes to repeat that performance in this year's assembly election. Elections in Uttar Pradesh will be held in seven phases from 11 February to 8 March.
New Delhi: Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) has released its eighth list of candidates for the Assembly polls in Uttar Pradesh spanning 20 constituencies, taking to 150 its number of electoral nominees for the 403-seat House so far.

The prominent seats on which the Ajit Singh-led party has announced nominees in its latest list include Saharanpur, Moradabad, Fatehpur and Shahjahanpur.

According to an official RLD statement, Bhoora Malik has got the ticket from Saharanpur, Abdul Rauf Malik was nominated from Moradabd, Vikram Singh Lodhi from Fatehpur and Gaurav Gautam from Shahjahanpur.

The party has also fielded candidates from Nakud, Gango, Thakurdwara, Bisauli, Bilsi, Dataganj, Bahedi, Meerganj, Nawabganj, Balamau, Bidhuna, Bansi, Pipraich, Haata and Ghosi.

Dhananjay Singh has been nominated from Khadda Assembly seat, replacing N P Kushwaha, who was earlier announced party candidate from there, the statement released last night said.

With the latest announcement, RLD has so far announced names of 150 candidates after it failed to strike a deal with the Samajwadi Party and Congress.

RLD had announced that it will field candidates on all the 403 Assembly seats in alliance with JD(U) and other smaller parties as it is making efforts to come up with the 'fourth dimension' in the crucial state polls.

In the last UP Assembly elections in 2012, RLD, which claims to wield power in western UP, had contested on 40 seats and managed to win on nine of them while forfeiting deposit on 20.

UP will go for polls in seven phases beginning February 11. The election results will be declared on March 11.
Bengaluru: Former Karnataka Chief Minister and veteran Congress leader SM Krishna has resigned from the primary membership of the party, sources close to him said on Saturday.

84-year old Krishna has written to Congress President Sonia Gandhi conveying his decision, the sources told PTI in Bengaluru.

Asked about it, the former Minister for External Affairs declined to react, saying, "tomorrow. tomorrow." He has called a press conference tomorrow, where he is expected to give details about his decision and his future plan of action.

Krishna, who was the state Chief Minister from 1999 to 2004 and a former Maharashtra Governor, is reportedly miffed at being sidelined in the party, with which he has more than five-decades-old association.

He had returned to the state in 2012 but had been maintaining a low profile in the last two years.

As the news broke out, apparently surprised state Congress leaders said they were not aware of the development and rushed to his residence to meet Krishna who was away at a function.

"I am not aware of it. If it is true, I can't even believe it. I do not want to react now," KPCC President and state Home Minister G Parameshwara told reporters.

"We had not sidelined him in any matter from any angle. He is one of the most likeable leaders of our party...the party had not sidelined him," he said.

State Congress Working President Dinesh Gundu Rao also said he had no information.

"Without officially knowing I can't react. "Krishna is a senior leader who has always played politics with dignity. He has always played positive politics," he said.

The development has hit the Karnataka Congress at a time when a section of partymen are unhappy over the style of functioning of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who is also facing an aggressive BJP which is hoping to stage a comeback to power in the 2018 Assembly polls.
Washington: US president Donald Trump today signed an executive order which establishes new vetting measures to limit the flow of refugees and "keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the US".

The order also prevents all persons from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia or Yemen from entering the country for 30 days.

"I'm establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America. We don't want them here," Trump said after he signed the executive order on his first visit to the Pentagon, a week after he was sworn in as the President.

"We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas. We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people," Trump said.

"We will never forget the lessons of 9/11 nor the heroes who lost at the Pentagon. They were the best of us. We will honour them not only with our words, but with our actions, and that's what we're doing today," said Trump flanked with the new Defense Secretary Gen (retired) James Mattis and the Vice President Mike Pence.

The executive order "Protection of The Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry Into The United States" notes that the steps taken by the US in the aftermath of 9/11 have not been able to deter terrorists from entering the country.

"Numerous foreign-born individuals have been convicted or implicated in terrorism-related crimes since 11 September 2001, including foreign nationals who entered the US after receiving the visitor, student, or employment visas, or who entered through the US refugee resettlement programme," it said.

Deteriorating conditions in certain countries due to war, strife, disaster, and civil unrest increase the likelihood that terrorists will use any means possible to enter the US, the executive order said.

The US must be vigilant during the visa-issuance process to ensure that those approved for admission do not intend to harm Americans and that they have no ties to terrorism, it said.

"In order to protect Americans, the US must ensure that those admitted to this country do not bear hostile attitudes toward it and its founding principles," the executive order said adding that the US cannot, and should not, admit those who do not support the Constitution, or those who would place violent ideologies over American law.

In addition, the US should not admit those who engage in acts of bigotry or hatred (including "honour" killings, other forms of violence against women, or the persecution of those who practice religions different from their own) or those who would oppress Americans of any race, gender, or sexual orientation, it said.

The executive order suspends the US Refugee Admissions Programme for 120 days until it is reinstated "only for nationals of countries for whom" members of Trump's Cabinet deem can be properly vetted.

News reports had said that US has identified six countries  Iran, Iraq, Sudan, Syria, Libya, Somalia, Yemen and Iraq  from where it would refuse to provide its visas. With respect to countries like Afghanistan, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia it would resort to extreme vetting.

As per the executive order, the list of such countries is to be expanded. It would be those countries who fail to provide information to the US about their citizens applying for a US visa.

In an interview with Christian Broadcast Network, Trump said he would give priority to Christina refugees. "We are going to help them," he said.

"They've been horribly treated. Do you know if you were a Christian in Syria it was impossible, at least very tough, to get into the United States?" he said.

"If you were a Muslim you could come in, but if you were a Christian, it was almost impossible and the reason that was so unfair, everybody was persecuted in all fairness, but they were chopping off the heads of everybody but more so the Christians. And I thought it was very, very unfair," Trump said.
By John Irish

| PARIS

PARIS France and Germany voiced disquiet on Saturday over U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to limit immigration and refugees from some Muslim countries, and they reaffirmed a firm line on Russian sanctions.Speaking at a joint news conference in Paris with his German counterpart Sigmar Gabriel, French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault said many of Trump's decisions worried the two U.S. allies, including new immigration restrictions.Trump on Friday signed an executive order that will curb immigration and refugees from some Muslim-majority countries and he separately said he wanted the United States to give priority to Syrian Christians fleeing the civil war there."This can only worry us, but there are many subjects that worry us," Ayrault said, adding that he would soon invite his future American counterpart Rex Tillerson to Paris to explain Europe's interests, values and vision of the world."Welcoming refugees who flee war and oppression is part of our duty," Ayrault said.Germany has taken in more than one million refugees and migrants, mainly from the Middle East, since 2015.Although traditionally open to asylum seekers, France has taken in far fewer refugees than Germany since the migrant crisis erupted. Some in the French government, mostly ex-premier Manuel Valls, criticising Berlin's open-door policy, as has Trump.

"The United States is a country where Christian traditions have an important meaning. Loving your neighbour is a major Christian value, and that includes helping people," said Germany's Gabriel, who was on his first trip abroad since his nomination as foreign minister. "I think that is what unites us in the West, and I think that is what we want to make clear to the Americans."The two countries also reiterated their position on Russian sanctions, saying they could only be lifted if progress was made in the peace process for eastern Ukraine, where a pro-Russian separatist insurgency began in 2014.

They joined British Prime Minister Theresa May in cautioning Trump against premature moves on the issue. "Let's not forget there was a war, that Russia sought to take over parts of Ukraine," Ayrault said.Trump said on Friday he was only in the early stages of considering whether to lift U.S. sanctions on Russia, but insisted he wanted to follow through on his campaign pledge to pursue better relations with Russia.The French and German ministers also said the United Nations remained the best framework to lead peace talks about Syria in the aftermath of Russian-led efforts in the Kazakh capital Astana that some diplomats say might undermine the UN process.

Separately, Germany and France are also continuing to work on creating a joint tactical airlift pool of Lockheed Martin Corp C-130J military transport planes, a spokesman for the German defence ministry said on Saturday.He could not confirm a report in Der Spiegel newsmagazine that the two countries expected to complete work on the deal and present it to U.S. Defense Secretary James Mattis at a meeting of NATO defence ministers in Brussels next month.The magazine said German Defence Minister Ursula von der Leyen hoped to present the joint airlift as evidence of Germany's willingness to contribute more to NATO.Trump has criticised many European countries for not meeting a NATO target of spending 2 percent of gross domestic product on defence. (Additional reporting by Andrea Shalal in Berlin; writing by Michel Rose; editing by Mark Heinrich)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
By Elizabeth Piper and Tulay Karadeniz

| ANKARA

ANKARA British Prime Minister Theresa May signed a $125 million defence equipment deal with Turkey on Saturday and promised to push for more trade between the NATO allies, while cautioning Ankara on human rights following last year's failed coup.May, in Turkey after a trip to Washington where she met U.S. President Donald Trump, visited both countries for the first time as prime minister, promoting trade agreements to strengthen her hand in negotiations to leave the European Union. Speaking to reporters at the presidential palace in Ankara alongside President Tayyip Erdogan, May called Turkey one of Britain's oldest friends and briefly touched on human rights, a sore point for Erdogan, who accuses the West of not showing enough solidarity following the July 15 military putsch attempt."I'm proud that the UK stood with you on the 15 July last year in defence of democracy and now it is important that Turkey sustains that democracy by maintaining the rule of law and upholding its international human rights obligations as the government has undertaken to do," she said.Rights groups and some Western politicians have been more critical. More than 100,000 people have been sacked or suspended following the failed coup and some 40,000 jailed pending trial. Ankara says the measures are needed to root out supporters of the putsch. At a joint news conference later with Prime Minister Binali Yildirim, May also avoided criticising Trump's sweeping ban on people seeking refuge in the United States, saying Washington was responsible for its policies on refugees.

May has previously said the nature of the "special relationship" between Britain and the United States meant the allies could speak frankly to each other when they disagreed.In her Turkey visit, as in the United States, it was clear May's priority was on securing trade. She said the UK and Turkey had agreed to form a joint working group for post-Brexit trade and would step up an aviation security programme.'OPEN FOR BUSINESS'

The two countries signed a defence deal worth more than 100 million pounds ($125 million) to develop Turkish fighter jets.May said the deal, which involves BAE Systems and TAI(Turkish Aerospace Industries) working together to develop the TF-X Turkish fighter programme, showed "Britain is a great, global, trading nation and that we are open for business".Yildirim said the two countries plan to sign a free-trade deal once Britain leaves the European Union, while Erdogan told reporters that he discussed steps towards defence industry cooperation with May, and that he hoped to increase annual trade with Britain to $20 billion from $15.6 billion now.

May's government is keen to start laying the groundwork for bilateral trade agreements for when Britain leaves the European Union, a process that will take at least two years after triggering the formal divorce talks by the end of March.May's spokeswoman has said Turkey would be the 13th country to set up a working group on trade with Britain.The United Kingdom was the No. 2 destination for Turkish exports in 2015, buying $10.6 billion in goods, according to IMF trade data. Only Germany imports more from Turkey. The countries also discussed the fight against militant groups. Yildirim said he requested legal action against supporters of the coup, who he said are active in Britain. (Additional reporting by Ece Toksabay; Writing by David Dolan; Editing by Ralph Boulton and Helen Popper)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
By Kiyoshi Takenaka and Roberta Rampton

| TOKYO/WASHINGTON

TOKYO/WASHINGTON U.S. President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe agreed on Saturday to meet early next month, affirming the importance of bilateral ties while setting the stage for potentially sensitive trade talks.Trump's administration has put the focus of the Abe visit, one of the first summits of the new presidency, on starting bilateral trade talks. Japan says it is preparing for all contingencies in dealing with Trump, who pulled America out of an Asia-Pacific trade deal Japan had championed and who has said Japan does not offer fair access to U.S. carmakers. "President Trump affirmed the ironclad U.S. commitment to ensuring the security of Japan," during a telephone call in which they agreed to meet in Washington on Feb. 10, the White House said.Abe told reporters that at the coming meeting, "I would like to have a candid exchange of views on the economy and security issues as a whole."

The two leaders discussed the automotive industry, said senior government spokesman Koichi Hagiuda, without giving details. The White House statement said the two "committed to deepen the bilateral trade and investment relationship."Trump has threatened a "border tax" on imports into the United States and has said Japan has unfair barriers to foreign auto imports. Japanese officials have pointed out that there are no tariffs on foreign car imports into Japan and maintain there are no discriminatory non-tariff barriers.

Trump and Abe agreed on the importance of economic ties between the world's No. 1 and No. 3 economies, said Hagiuda, Abe's deputy chief cabinet secretary.On security, the two discussed a visit this week by Defense Secretary James Mattis, the first trip to the region by a Trump cabinet member.

"President Trump and Prime Minister Abe said they would consult and cooperate on the threat posed by North Korea," the White House said. (Reporting by Kiyoshi Takenaka and Roberta Rampton; Additional reporting by Lesley Wroughton; Editing by Ralph Boulton and David Evans)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
British actor John Hurt, 75, who had starring roles in The Elephant Man and Captain Corelli's Mandolin, passed away, reports said. He was 77.

How fortunate we are to have lived in a world with John Hurt's rendition of "Jabberwocky". pic.twitter.com/qfOjxbgFsY  Ronan Farrow (@RonanFarrow) January 28, 2017

The Hollywood actor was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2015 but was given an all clear. At that time, he was quoted as saying, that he intended to continue working, with one of his projects in the near future being to record Jeffrey Bernard Is Unwell for BBC Radio.

In his diverse career, Hurt has played numerous characters in blockbusters including Harry Potter where he played the role of Mr Ollivander. Hurt was nominated for Oscars for his roles in The Elephant Man and Midnight Express.

He can be seen in the film Jackie, a biopic about the widow of John F Kennedy, which was released recently, The Independent said.

Born in Chesterfield, Hurt was also lauded for his portrayal of Quentin Crisp in the 1975 biographical film, The Naked Civil Servant, directed by Jack Gold. He also starred in Hellboy, the TV series Doctor Who and the 1979 Ridley Scott horror, Alien which earned him a Bafta nomination as the Best Actor in Supporting Role. Watch it here:

The actor received a knighthood in 2015, writes Daily Mail. "He wished his parents had been alive to see him presented with the honour. He added: 'It does make one inordinately proud.'," it said.

Hurt is survived by his wife of 12 years Anwen Rees-Myers.
New York: Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg took to his social network to criticise US President Donald Trump's anti-immigration policies and his plans to build a wall along the border with Mexico.

In his first week in the White House, Trump signed executive orders for the border wall, withholding federal funding from sanctuary cities and blocking refugees from nations like Iran, Iraq, Libya and Syria.

"Like many of you, I'm concerned about the impact of the recent executive orders signed by President Trump. We need to keep this country safe, but we should do that by focusing on people who actually pose a threat," Zuckerberg said in a Facebook post on Friday.

Zuckerberg, who recently cleared that he was not running for the top post, criticised Trump's actions by saying the US is a "nation of immigrants".

He said that his great-grandparents came to the US from Germany, Austria and Poland, while wife Priscilla Chan's parents were refugees from China and Vietnam.

He urged Trump to keep the US' doors open to refugees.

"Had we turned away refugees a few decades ago, Priscilla's family wouldn't be here today," he said.

However, Zuckerberg also appreciated Trump's announcement regarding finding a solution for 7,50,000 immigrants in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals programme under the DREAM Act.
Mexico City: Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim said his country was in a position of strength in negotiations with US President Donald Trump, joking that the fellow tycoon was a negotiator, "not Terminator." Slim yesterday called a rare news conference to weigh in on the diplomatic row between Trump and President Enrique Pena Nieto over the US leader's insistence that Mexico pay for a

border wall to curb illegal immigration.

The spat escalated this week as Trump ordered the wall's construction, which he wants Mexico to fund, while Pena Nieto cancelled a meeting with the US president scheduled for next week in Washington. "I think that, to put it in cinematographic terms, Trump is not 'Terminator,' he's a negotiator," Slim said, referring to the science-fiction film about a killer cyborg from the future.

The telecommunications magnate showed a copy of Trump's book "Great Again: How to Fix Our Crippled America" as he discussed the New York real estate tycoon's negotiating skills. The US leader, Slim said, seeks to "provoke to negotiate" but he voiced confidence that Pena Nieto and Trump will eventually meet due to the importance of US-Mexican relations.

Slim said he felt "great pleasure" in seeing Mexican society back Pena Nieto's decision to cancel next week's meeting, saying he was surprised by the national unity. "We are in a position of strength... without getting angry but also without surrendering," he said.

The head of the America Movil telecoms empire said that in the negotiations, Mexican officials must make Americans "understand that what's best (for the United States) is to have an economic and trade association with Mexico." In addition to making Mexico pay for the wall, Trump wants to renegotiate the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

Slim, who had criticized Trump during the presidential campaign, had dinner with the fellow billionaire in Florida in December after Trump's election victory. Slim said he had not had contact with Trump since then.
New York: Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani student activist and Nobel Peace laureate, said she was "heartbroken" by Donald Trump's order on refugees and urged the US president not to abandon the world's "most defenseless." "I am heartbroken that today President Trump is closing the door on children, mothers and fathers fleeing violence and war," said the 19-year-old, shot in the head by the Taliban in 2012 after publicly advocating education for girls in her home country.

"In this time of uncertainty and unrest around the world, I ask President Trump not to turn his back on the world's most defenseless children and families," she added in a statement just moments after Trump signed the decree.

Yousafzai is the youngest ever recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, which she shared in 2014 with Kailash Satyarthi, a fellow education activist.

Now living in England, she made a remarkable recovery after undergoing medical treatment and has traveled the world as a campaigner.

"I am heartbroken that America is turning its back on a proud history of welcoming refugees and immigrants -- the people who helped build your country, ready to work hard in exchange for a fair chance at a new life," she said.

The decree signed by Trump was entitled: "Protection of the nation from foreign terrorist entry into the United States." The White House did not immediately make the wording public, but a draft text leaked to US media said it would suspend the entire US refugee resettlement program for at least 120 days while tough new vetting rules are established.

In addition, it specifically bars Syrian refugees from the United States indefinitely, or until Trump decides that they no longer pose a threat.

"I am heartbroken that Syrian refugee children, who have suffered through six years of war by no fault of their own, are singled out for discrimination," said Yousafzai.

She named a friend who had fled wars in Somalia, Yemen and Egypt to study in the United States, where she had hoped to be reunited with her sister. "Today her hope of being reunited with her precious sister dims," she said.
Washington: Top South Asian lawyers' bodies have condemned US President Donald Trump's executive order to stop refugees entering America and halt immigration process from Muslim-majority countries.

"These orders, which are based on the misguided idea that certain ethnic populations are more prone to violence, are incompatible with American values, and will not make our communities safer or our nation stronger," South Asian Bar Association of North America (SABA) and National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (NAPABA) said in a joint statement.

It said the order halts refugee admissions from all countries for at least 120 days, indefinitely halts the admission of Syrian refugees, and lowers the number of refugee admissions to the United States.

It also grants states and localities the ability to stop refugees from settling in their jurisdiction, and suspends all entry of individuals from certain Muslim-majority countries. "Criminalising and stigmatising a group of people simply for their religious beliefs, what they look like

and where they come from, violates the American spirit of equality, fairness and innocence until proven guilty," said SABA president Vichal Kumar.

"The carve out in the executive actions for religious minorities challenges any assertion that these orders do not directly target Muslims," he said. "An outright ban of an entire group is an overbroad and unjustified response to a threat that is based solely on conjecture and unsupported by facts. These actions will leave a legacy of creating deeper mistrust of our communities," he added.

"We must recognise the humanitarian needs of refugee populations and we must refuse to act based on fear and intolerance," said NAPABA president Cyndie Chang. "Policies that discriminate against members of the Muslim community go against our values as Americans. President Trump's anti-immigrant executive orders open the door to a defacto 'Muslim ban,' and roll back efforts to create safe and

supportive communities," Chang said. "As Asian Pacific Americans who are first, second, or third generation immigrants - which includes refugees, undocumented, and Muslims - we know all too well the harm these types of restrictive policies may cause," he said.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations has announced they will file a federal lawsuit on behalf of more than 20 individuals challenging the "Muslim ban" executive order signed by Trump. The lawsuit, will challenge the constitutionality of the order because its apparent purpose and underlying motive is to ban people of the Islamic faith from Muslim-majority countries from entering the United States, a media release said.

"There is no evidence that refugees  the most thoroughly vetted of all people entering our nation  are a threat to national security," said CAIR national litigation director Lena F Masri.

"The courts must do what President Trump will notensure that our government refrains from segregating people based on their faith," said Attorney Gadeir Abbas, who is co-counsel on the lawsuit.
By Emily, Stephenson and Eric Knecht

| WASHINGTON/CAIRO

WASHINGTON/CAIRO Five Iraqi passengers and one Yemeni were barred from boarding an EgyptAir flight from Cairo to New York on Saturday after President Donald Trump halted the entry of citizens from seven Muslim-majority countries, sources at Cairo airport said.The passengers, arriving in transit to Cairo airport, were stopped and re-directed to flights headed for their home countries despite holding valid visas, the sources said. Trump on Friday put a four-month hold on allowing refugees into the United States and temporarily barred travelers from Syria and six other Muslim-majority countries, saying the moves would help protect Americans from terrorist attacks.He said his most sweeping use of his presidential powers since taking office a week ago, barring travelers from the seven nations for at least 90 days, would give his administration time to develop more stringent screening procedures for refugees, immigrants and visitors."I'm establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America. Don't want them here," Trump said earlier on Friday at the Pentagon."We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people," he said.The bans, though temporary, took effect immediately, causing havoc and confusion for would-be travelers with passports from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.Besides Cairo it was not immediately clear whether other airports of countries listed by Trump had swiftly implemented the ban. Arab officials of the listed countries would not comment on the matter.The order seeks to prioritize refugees fleeing religious persecution, a move Trump separately said was aimed at helping Christians in Syria. That led some legal experts to question whether the order was constitutional.One group said it would announce a court challenge on Monday. The Council on American-Islamic Relations said the order targets Muslims because of their faith, contravening the U.S. Constitutional right to freedom of religion."President Trump has cloaked what is a discriminatory ban against nationals of Muslim countries under the banner of national security," said Greg Chen of the American Immigration Lawyers Association. Trump has long pledged to take this kind of action, making it a prominent feature of his campaign for the Nov. 8 election. But people who work with Muslim immigrants and refugees were scrambling to determine the scope of the order.Even legal permanent residents - people with "green cards" allowing them to live and work in the United States - were being advised to consult immigration lawyers before traveling outside the country, or trying to return, according to Muslim Advocates, a civil rights group in Washington. On Friday evening, Abed Ayoub of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee said he had fielded about 100 queries from people anxious about the order, which he said he believed could affect traveling green card holders, students, people coming to the United States for medical care and others."It's chaos," Ayoub said.

SYRIAN REFUGEES

During his campaign, Trump tapped into American fears about Islamic State militants and the flood of migrants into Europe from Syria's civil war, saying refugees could be a "Trojan horse" that allowed attackers to enter the United States.In December 2015, he called for a ban on all Muslims entering the United States, drawing fire for suggesting a religious test for immigrants that critics said would violate the U.S. Constitution.His idea later evolved into a proposal for "extreme vetting." Trump's order also suspends the Syrian refugee program until further notice, and will eventually give priority to minority religious groups fleeing persecution. Trump said in an interview with the Christian Broadcasting Network that the exception would help Syrian Christians fleeing the civil war there.Legal experts were divided on whether this order would be constitutional.

"If they are thinking about an exception for Christians, in almost any other legal context discriminating in favor of one religion and against another religion could violate the constitution," said Stephen Legomsky, a former chief counsel at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services in the Obama administration.But Peter Spiro, a professor at Temple University Beasley School of Law, said Trump's action would likely be constitutional because the president and Congress are allowed considerable deference when it comes to asylum decisions."It's a completely plausible prioritization, to the extent this group is actually being persecuted," Spiro said.The order may also affect special refugee programs for Iraqis who worked for the U.S. government as translators after the 2003 invasion of Iraq.It is already affecting refugees and their families, said Jen Smyers of the Church World Service, a Protestant faith-based group that works with migrants. Smyers said she spoke to an Iraqi mother whose twin daughters remain in Iraq due to processing delays. "Those two 18-year-old daughters won't be able to join their mother in the U.S.," she said.POLITICAL FIRE

Democrats on Friday were quick to condemn Trump's order as un-American, saying it would tarnish the reputation of the United States as a land that welcomes immigrants.

"Today's executive order from President Trump is more about extreme xenophobia than extreme vetting," said Democratic Senator Edward Markey in a statement.Some Republicans praised the move. Representative Bob Goodlatte, chairman of the House of Representatives Judiciary Committee, said Islamic State has threatened to use the U.S. immigration system, making it important to do more screening."I am pleased that President Trump is using the tools granted to him by Congress and the power granted by the Constitution to help keep America safe and ensure we know who is entering the United States," Goodlatte said in a statement.Without naming Trump, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday it was no time to build walls between nations and criticized steps towards cancelling world trade agreements.Trump on Wednesday ordered the construction of a U.S.-Mexican border wall, a major promise during his election campaign, as part of a package of measures to curb illegal immigration."Today is not the time to erect walls between nations. They have forgotten that the Berlin wall fell years ago," Rouhani said in a speech carried live on Iranian state television.He made no direct reference to Trump's order regarding refugees and travelers from the seven mainly Muslim states.Rouhani, a pragmatist elected in 2013, thawed Iran's relations with world powers after years of confrontation and engineered its 2015 deal with them under which it curbed its nuclear program in exchange for relief from sanctions.Rouhani said earlier this month that Trump could not unilaterally cancel the nuclear deal and that talk of renegotiating it was "meaningless".France and Germany voiced disquiet on Saturday over Trump's new restrictions on immigration."Welcoming refugees who flee war and oppression is part of our duty," French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault said at a joint news conference with German counterpart Sigmar Gabriel."The United States is a country where Christian traditions have an important meaning. Loving your neighbor is a major Christian value, and that includes helping people," said Gabriel. "I think that is what unites us in the West, and I think that is what we want to make clear to the Americans." (Additional reporting by Mica Rosenberg, Andrew Chung, Eric Beech, Mohammad Zargham, Dan Levine, Michelle Nichols, Julia Edwards Ainsley, Andrea Shalal and Firouz Sedarat; writing by Roberta Rampton and Samia Nakhoul; editing by Mark Heinrich)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
By Emily Stephenson and Mica Rosenberg

President Donald Trump on Friday signed an executive order that will limit immigration and refugees from some Muslim-majority countries and he separately said he wanted the United States to give priority to Syrian Christians fleeing the civil war there.Trump had promised the measures, called "extreme vetting," during last year's election campaign, saying they would prevent militants from entering the United States from abroad. But civil rights groups have condemned the order as harmful and discriminatory.The details of the order were not immediately available but were expected to be released by the White House on Friday night.Republican Representative Michael McCaul, the House Homeland Security Committee chairman, said on CNN that Trump's order would include a 30-day suspension of visa applications from seven countries designated as "high-threat areas" and a suspension of the refugee program."I'm establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America. Don't want them here," Trump said at the Pentagon."We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people," he said.

The move was immediately condemned by Democrats, civil rights groups and aid groups such as Oxfam and others, even before full details emerged."Extreme vetting is just a euphemism for discriminating against Muslims," American Civil Liberties Union Executive Director Anthony Romero said in a statement."Identifying specific countries with Muslim majorities and carving out exceptions for minority religions flies in the face of the constitutional principle that bans the government from either favouring or discriminating against particular religions," Romero said.

Separately, Trump said that Syrian Christians will be given priority when it comes to applying for refugee status, a policy that would likely be challenged on similar grounds."If you were a Muslim you could come in, but if you were a Christian, it was almost impossible and the reason that was so unfair, everybody was persecuted in all fairness, but they were chopping off the heads of everybody but more so the Christians," Trump said in an excerpt of an interview with the Christian Broadcasting Network, discussing the Syrian refugees.Statistics provided by the Pew Research Center last October do not support Trump's argument. Pew research found that 38,901 Muslim refugees entered the United States in fiscal year 2016 from all countries, almost the same number, 37,521, as Christian refugees.

Stephen Legomsky, a former Chief Counsel at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services in the Obama administration, said prioritising Christians could be unconstitutional."If they are thinking about an exception for Christians, in almost any other legal context discriminating in favour of one religion and against another religion could violate the constitution," he said.But Peter Spiro, a professor at Temple University Beasley School of Law, said Trumps move would likely be constitutional because the president and Congress are allowed considerable deference when it comes to asylum decisions."Its a completely plausible prioritisation, to the extent this group is actually being persecuted," Spiro said. (Reporting by Emily Stephesnon in Washington and Mica Rosenberg in New York; additional reporting by Eric Beech, Mohammad Zargham, Dan Levine, Michelle Nichols; writing by Roberta Rampton; Editing by Grant McCool)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
Sony is expected to unveil five Xperia smartphones at the upcoming MWC 2017 in Barcelona next month. The company is said to announce  Yoshino, BlancBright, Keyaki, Hinoki and Mineo smartphones at the event, according to a report from Review.ge.

Yoshino is expected to be the flagship device that will feature a 4K (3840 x 2160 display), Snapdragon 835 processor, 4/6GB RAM and a Sony IMX 400 camera sensor. Next up, Sony BlancBright is likely to have a QHD resolution 5.5-inch display, Qualcomm Snapdragon 653 processor or the Snapdragon 835 processor, 4GB RAM and the same IMX400 camera sensor. The Keyak is tipped to sport a full HD 1920 x 1080 display, MediaTek Helio P20 processor with 4GB RAM, 64GB of internal storage, 23-megapixel rear-camera and 16MP front-facing camera.

Codenamed Hinoki, this one is expected to sport a 5-inch 720 x 1280 screen, a Helio P20 chipset, 3GB of RAM, 32GB of storage, a 16MP rear camera and an 8MP front-facing one. Sony Mineo will be the lowest end device that is expected to be priced at around $350 and have inferior specifications vis-a-vis others in the lineup.

Sony has scheduled an event on February 27 at MWC 2017.

Source
For the past two decades, Europe has been a frontrunner in sustainable palm oil with the EU market reaching high levels. However, total palm oil imports are decreasing.... Read More
Election Day held significance for a number of reasons. For all Americans it represented a turning point in policy with the election of the 45th president of the United States, but for the marijuana industry it was the culmination of two decades worth of work. Nine states went into the Nov. 8 election with a marijuana initiative or amendment on their ballot, and eight came out victorious (sorry Arizona). The year ended with 28 states having legalized medical cannabis and eight with recreational pot laws now on their books.

One of the many victorious states on election night was Massachusetts, where 53.6% of the nearly 3.3 million people who voted filled in the "Yes" box for Question 4. However, with nearly three months having passed since that vote, one thing is looking painfully clear to the residents of Massachusetts: the state's recreational marijuana law may look nothing like what was passed on election night.

Are big changes in store for Massachusetts' recreational marijuana law?

As reported by The Boston Globe last week, even though residents have made their voices heard and marijuana will eventually become legal for adults in Massachusetts, state regulators may be able to impose serious restrictions on the cannabis industry prior to the law's implementation.

Senator Jason Lewis (D-MA) filed 14 bills with Massachusetts' legislature this month concerning the state's recently passed recreational weed law, some of which would look to substantially curb how much consumers can purchase and what retailers will be able to sell. Mind you, these bills come after state legislators in December passed a law delaying the sale of recreational marijuana products in approved retail dispensaries until July 2018.

Lewis's legislation would hit the marijuana industry in four ways, assuming all of his introduced bills are passed.

It would reduce the amount of marijuana an adult over the age of 21 could possess in their home from 10 ounces to two ounces, and it would limit the number of marijuana plants that could be grown from 12 per household to six per household. It would delay the ability of pot dispensaries to sell marijuana edible products and massage oils by at least two additional years. Any marijuana products other than the unadulterated plant matter itself would be permanently banned. Cities and town governments would be granted greater power to reject marijuana dispensaries without having to bring a vote to the residents of the city or town.

What makes these proposals so difficult for the cannabis industry to accept is that Lewis was a prime opponent of Question 4 during the November election. However, he's viewed as the top authority of Massachusetts' recreational marijuana industry and is probably going to be the co-chairman of a new Senate-House committee on marijuana. In other words, his bills could have strong sway with regulators.

Of course, not all of the bills Lewis introduced are being critiqued by pro-legalization advocates. For example, Lewis wants tough regulations on the packaging of marijuana products and edibles to ensure they don't wind up in the hands of minors. Lewis also wants to see tax revenue apportioned to drug education programs for adolescents.

Another of Lewis' bills likely to gain traction is the proposed creation of a research program to monitor the social and economic impacts of the legalization of recreational weed. These latter proposals are likely to get resounding support by state regulators.

Could Massachusetts' model limit recreational pot access in other states?

While Lewis aims to make Massachusetts a model that other recreational legal states can follow, it could also have worrisome consequences for the cannabis industry.

In particular, giving considerably more power to local municipalities to reject marijuana establishments could wind up hampering the ability of the pot industry to expand. For those who may not recall, we're already seeing something of a bifurcation in Colorado, which is currently considered the model marijuana state. Even though Colorado wound up generating close to $1 billion in legal sales in 2015, these sales pretty much came from a quarter of the Colorado's counties. About three-quarters of its jurisdictions have rejected the idea of recreational cannabis establishments in the state.

But, here's where things get tricky. If municipalities are given more power to control whether or not marijuana dispensaries are allowed into their town without a public vote, it could mean legislators squashing the will of the people. It presents a tricky balance: trying to integrate a previously illegal industry into a state's economy safely when essentially no precedence can be looked upon for guidance.

Making matters even tougher for the cannabis industry is the likelihood under the Trump administration that cannabis will remain a schedule 1 drug. As long as pot remains an illicit substance, marijuana companies will struggle to gain access to basic banking services from financial institutions, and weed businesses will be handicapped come tax time by having to pay tax on their gross profits instead of net profits. Since marijuana is illegal at the federal level, selling the drug at the state level excludes cannabis companies from taking normal business deductions.

Thus, what happens in Massachusetts' legislature in 2017 could have big implications in how other states may handle recreational pot legalization in the future.

For the time being, it remains in investors' best interest to remain on the sidelines and watch the progression of the marijuana industry solely as an observer. Even with some analysts suggesting that the legal marijuana industry could grow by 30% annually through the remainder of the decade, the federal government and state legislatures still have the power to make life very difficult for the cannabis industry as a whole  and that's bad news for prospective investors.
Image source: Getty Images.

Last year marked another solid one for Brookfield Infrastructure Partners (NYSE: BIP). Through the end of the third quarter, the global infrastructure company's funds from operations (FFO) were up 12% on a per-share basis, which puts it on pace for another year of double-digit annual growth. FFO in all four of the company's business lines grew last year, thanks to a combination of recently completed acquisitions and organic growth projects. That said, one segment clearly stood out as its best in 2016: energy.

Drilling down into why energy was last year's best performer

As the chart below shows, the company's utilities and transport segments generated the bulk of its funds from operations. However, most of the growth came from its energy-related businesses.

Data source: Brookfield Infrastructure Partners L.P. Chart by author. Note: In millions of dollars.

Overall, earnings in both the utilities and transport segments grew by a low single digit growth rate, while energy earnings jumped 75.7%. That was an even more robust rate than communications, where FFO leaped 42.5%, primarily because the company acquired this business in 2015.

Several factors fueled the energy segment's high growth rate last year. First, Brookfield Infrastructure Partners teamed up with natural gas pipeline giantKinder Morgan (NYSE: KMI) in a transaction to acquire full control of the Natural Gas Pipeline Company of America. In the deal, Brookfield and Kinder Morgan increased their stakes from 20% and 27%, respectively, up to 50% apiece. As a result, Brookfield's share of that system's earnings nearly doubled. In addition to that, Kinder Morgan and Brookfield invested capital in the business to lower its leverage, which reduced interest expenses and increased FFO. Brookfield also commissioned several growth projects in its district energy business last year, which added incremental earnings. Finally, Brookfield acquired a natural gas storage business in North America, which further bolstered earnings. Needless to say, last year was a busy one for the company's energy segment.

Image source: Getty Images.

Can energy continue to fuel growth at Brookfield Infrastructure Partners?

Brookfield's energy segment still has plenty of momentum that should drive further earnings growth in 2017. Fueling this growth is the continued contribution from recent acquisitions and project completions. On top of that, the company has about $230 million of growth projects in development, which should drive double-digit compound annual earnings growth over the next few years.

That said, Brookfield Infrastructure Partners has even better growth prospects in its other segments. For example, the company has $880 million of growth projects across its utilities businesses that should come online over the next two years, and it expects to invest $1.1 billion over the next three years in its transportation portfolio. These projects should deliver mid-single to low-double digit compound annual growth rates across these various businesses during the next five years.

On top of these organic growth projects, Brookfield has several needle-moving acquisitions in the pipeline that should drive earnings growth even higher. In transportation, the company recently completed the acquisition of a group of Australian ports and toll roads in Peru. Meanwhile, the company joined a consortium led by parent company Brookfield Asset Management (NYSE: BAM) to acquire a stake in Petrobras' (NYSE: PBR) natural gas utility in Brazil. Overall, Brookfield Infrastructure will invest $1.1 billion to buy 28% of the Petrobras pipeline transmission system, up from an initial expectation that it would acquire 20% of the business.

There have also been several reports that Brookfield Infrastructure Partners and Brookfield Asset Management are teaming up to buy communication tower companies in India. According to one report, Brookfield signed a $1.6 billion deal to acquire a 51% stake in Reliance Infratel, which is the tower unit of Reliance Communications. In addition to that, Brookfield Asset Management reportedly entered exclusive talks to buy India's largest tower owner Bharti Infratel for $11 billion. If both deals close and depending on the size of its participation, Brookfield Infrastructure Partners' communications earnings could surge.

Investor takeaway

Brookfield Infrastructure Partners' energy segment was clearly the greatest driver of the company's earnings growth in 2016. However, it is not likely to keep that crown in 2017 because the company has stronger growth prospects elsewhere. Depending on the company's ability to close acquisitions currently in its pipeline, the utilities or communications segments will likely drive growth in 2017.

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Matt DiLallo owns shares of Brookfield Asset Management, Brookfield Infrastructure Partners, and Kinder Morgan and has the following options: short January 2018 $30 puts on Kinder Morgan and long January 2018 $30 calls on Kinder Morgan. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Kinder Morgan. The Motley Fool recommends Brookfield Infrastructure Partners. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
When you think of heart attacks, you might assume the most common causes are smoking, high cholesterol, or obesity. Mental health issues probably don't spring to mind. But a new study suggests that depression poses just as great a risk to your heart health as those more familiar heart disease contributors.

In a new analysis, German researchers looked at health information from 3,428 European men, ages 45 to 74, who were followed for 10 years. And it turned out, dying from cardiovascular disease during the study period was as strongly associated with depression as it was with several of the classic big five heart disease risk factors: obesity, high cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure, and smoking.

Depressionwhich for this study, was determined by a checklist of mood symptoms, including anxiety and fatigueaccounted for about 15 percent of cardiovascular and coronary heart disease deaths, and high cholesterol and obesity for 8 to 21 percent. Diabetes posed less of a risk, accounting for 5 to 8 percent of heart-related deaths.

Only two risk factors accounted for more cardiovascular deaths than depression: smoking (between 17 and 20 percent) and high blood pressure (between 30 and 34 percent). Writing in the journal Atherosclerosis, the authors conclude that depressed mood and exhaustion holds a solid middle position within the concert of major cardiovascular risk factors.

RELATED: 10 Signs You Could Be Depressed

Mental-health screenings should be standard in patients who have classic heart disease risk factors, they write, and depression should be addressed to hopefully prevent additional risk to the heart. Plus, they add, treating depression is likely to have noticeable, tangible benefits to patientssomething that cant be said for factors like high blood pressure or cholesterol.

Heidi May, PhD, a cardiovascular researcher at the Intermountain Medical Center Heart Institute in Salt Lake City, says that the new research is very much in line with whats currently being reported by other studies. May was not involved in the analysis, but has also studied the link between depression and heart disease.

Theres a growing recognition for the need to screen and treat depression, and that doing so can reduce the risk of negative cardiovascular outcomes, she says. This study adds to the research by looking at specific mood symptoms, so I think its a great addition to what we already know.

May says that depression likely affects the heart in a variety of direct and indirect ways. There are some physiological changes that take place in the body with depression, and there are also behavioral changes. Depressed people are more likely to smoke, exercise less, and skip their prescribed medication, for example.

For the current study, the results for each variable were adjusted for all other risk factorssuggesting that depression is independently linked to heart disease, and is not just a contributor to unhealthy behaviors.

Previous research has also shown that this association is likely a two-way street: Just as depression can contribute to heart disease, suffering from a serious heart condition can also lead to depression. And in turn, depression can then impair recovery.

Thats why its important not only for people with cardiovascular risk factors to take care of their mental health, says May, but also for people with depression to take care of their hearts. These conditions have a compounding effect, she says, and they should all be treatedwhether you have one risk factor or five.

This article originally appeared on Health.com.
President Donald Trumps inaugural address mentioned the carnage taking place in American inner cities. This followed his recent criticism of Georgia Rep. John Lewiss Atlanta district as in horrible shape and falling apart. Though taken as a whole these comments may be exaggerations, his spotlight on the continuing plight of American urban centers is fair game.

In many ways Atlanta is booming. But the cranes that dot the citys skyline also obscure its serious problems that Trump has shined a light on. According to the most recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the citys youth unemployment rate is 40 percent, and its black unemployment rate is 19 percent. More than one in five residents live below the official poverty line.

It is unclear how much of the blame for this poverty and lack of opportunity can be laid at Congressman Lewiss feet. In too many urban centers across the country, there are too few opportunities for young and minority jobseekers. In many ways, the situation is worse now than when I was growing up in Atlanta in the 1970s.

Poverty and lack of opportunity have led to a recent surge in violent crime. According to the Major Cities Chiefs Association, violent crime is up significantly in major cities nationwide. Atlantas murder rate increased by over 25 percent between mid-2016 and mid-2015, and the city is now one of the countrys top 25 murder capitals. Increased crime chases away existing business activity, further reducing job opportunities.

To end this vicious cycle, legislators must relentlessly pursue policies that foster business and job creation. Yet in Atlanta and other major cities nationwide, the prospects of achieving such an agenda at the local level are slim. But there are encouraging signs at the federal level.

Consider Andy Puzder, who is the labor secretary nominee. Puzder not only understands how job opportunities are created, but also has actually created thousands of jobs as CEO of CKE Restaurants, which owns Carls Jr. and Hardees. The Senate should quickly confirm him so that he can get to work fostering a climate of job creation that is so desperately needed in the forgotten neighborhoods of major cities.

Puzder could address urban blight by eliminating and speaking out against the burdensome, unnecessary, or duplicative labor regulations that make it more expensive to do business and hire jobseekers. He could start by killing the previous labor departments overtime rule, which would require businesses to pay their salaried managers overtime pay if they earn less than $47,500 annually.

The overtime regulation  like many similar new and proposed labor regulations  would have economic and societal consequences because it would reduce good job opportunities.

Why? Because business owners rely heavily on their store managers, who are offered flexibility (say to leave work to pick up kids from school) in return for the understanding that they will stay until the job gets done. Usually, these jobs also come with other bonuses, benefits, perks, and prestige that arent reflected in a base salary.

If allowed to take effect, the overtime rule would increase labor costs, which would force business owners to reclassify salaried managers as hourly employees, reduce middle-class, middle-management job opportunities, and upend the longstanding, mutually beneficial relationship between owners and manager. In November, a federal judge issued a temporary injunction against the rule. Puzder could eliminate it for good.

Puzder has a unique opportunity because he has seen first-hand as CEO of a company with 3,000 domestic franchisees that employ over 75,000 Americans how bad regulations reduce employment and business creation. Urban centers starved for job opportunities need a labor secretary like Puzder who has been in the job creation trenches not the labor economics ivory tower.

I grew up in Atlanta's historic Old Fourth Ward. It is the same neighborhood that gave America, and the world, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

If we are to achieve Dr. King's dream we need a vision for economic growth and empowerment in our urban centers. I trust Andy Puzder to promote the policies that make these attainable.
The following column originally appeared on AEIdeas.org, the blog of the American Enterprise Institute.

In an interview with ABC News, President Donald Trump talked about the carnage taking place in Chicago, declaring, Afghanistan is not like whats happening in Chicago. People are being shot left and right. Thousands of people over a short period of time.

Is Trump right that Chicago is more dangerous that Afghanistan? For Americans, yes. If you compare US casualties in Afghanistan to those in Chicago, the Windy City has been a far more perilous place for Americans. Consider the statistics.

The total number of Americans killed in Afghanistan since 2001 under Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Freedoms Sentinel is 2,377. By contrast, there have been 8,229 murders in Chicago during that same time period. Here is the year by year breakdown:

2001: 667

2002: 656

2003: 601

2004: 453

2005: 451

2006: 471

2007: 448

2008: 513

2009: 459

2010: 436

2011: 433

2012: 506

2013: 422

2014: 427

2015: 495

2016: 746

2017: 45 (so far)

TOTAL: 8,229



To continue reading Marc Thiessen's column, click here.
One week into his new administration President Trump has shown the American people that while he lacks the silver tongue of a statesman, he more than makes up for it with the decisiveness of a businessman.

This week, President Trump signed executive orders on building the border wall in a sweeping move that also targets sanctuary cities. Another executive order aims to stop the flow of immigration from seven red-flag states including Syria, which will curtail the acceptance of Syrian refugees. Some would argue that the order doesnt go far enough to include terror-manufacturing states like the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. However, it does strategically target the greatest security gap: infiltration through the U.S. Refugee Resettlement Program. A program directed by emotion in the past, the initiative fails to look at two key elements:

First, does this type of immigration benefit America?

And second, does it consider the big picture?

The big picture is that refugee plight is a vehicle for radical Islamic terrorists who easily infiltrate the stream of hard-to-vet victims of war.

Immigration, until President Trump's executive order, was arguably the largest security blind spot for America to date.

President Trumps security-driven agenda in the first week is a move welcomed by Muslims both domestically and abroad, many of whom have the same security concerns against growing Islamic extremism as Americans.

When I talked about this with Pakistani-American activist Ali Abbas Taj, he stressed the need for the administration to push further by focusing on the underlying extremist groups: Salafis from the Middle East and Deobandis from South Asia.

The focus on these two groups will help the administration avoid over-simplification under the banner of radical Islam.

Ali says, We cannot win by making 2 billion Muslims our enemy through broad-brushing radical Islam. Only the extremists within these sub-sects [of Deobandis and Salafis] must be destroyed. We cannot destroy 2 billion Muslims.

Being swept aside in the tide of policy or directly attacked by extremists themselves is a widespread worry that many other Muslims have (but dont often publicly admit). Many American Muslims realize theyre on a fast-track to their own deportation process if the country doesnt start taking radical Islam seriously.

Take Fatima, for example, a North American-Muslim woman, who welcomes a crackdown on domestic terrorism.

In a message exchange with me, Fatima confides, Between extreme vetting and increased surveillance of mosques and monitoring the funding of mosques and organizations like CAIR, [these efforts] will help curb extremists and extremist ideas.

And she poignantly adds, This administration should be able to fight Islamic extremism without vilifying all Muslims.

In London, Shaaz Mahboob manages the Facebook page British Muslims for Secular Democracy.

A Trump supporter, Mahboob is confident President Trump can navigate the minefield of radical Islam in part through strategic alliances with pro-reform Muslims.

He also calls for excluding Islamists from the conversation, which was a tactic practiced by the Obama administration for the last 8 years.

Islamists, aided by the Obama administration, were able to completely push out pro-reform Muslims from the national dialogue.

For Mahboob, its simple: [It's] time to play Islamists at their own game and beat them by isolating them.

There is an undercurrent of support from Muslims for the newly elected president. Even those Muslims who couldnt vote for Trump, but who are engaged with the problem of radical Islam, feel President Trump can act as a megaphone for their voice.

Empowered by a high caliber cabinet, the new administration should expand on the immigration policy with a crackdown on domestic targets. The first step would be to strike with precision at the problem by partnering with pro-reform Muslim allies.


For all of his anti-establishment rhetoric, President Trumps stance toward immigrants and Muslims is more of the same. Orientalism and Manifest Destiny have long animated American foreign policy and domestic treatment of its racial and religious minorities.

Trumps executive orders on Friday, effectively barring immigrants from seven majority-Muslim countries, harks back to an era when holy wars were the currency for mass mobilization by the ruler.

In the eleventh century, for example, Pope Urban II called on his people to defend the Byzantine Empire from encroaching Muslim armies. What became known as the First Crusade in European history books solidified the image of Muslims as fanatical followers of a false religion and a threat to Christendom. Medieval romances and legends of battles between Christian and Muslim warriors nurtured the perception of a dangerous and violent Islam.

Over time, the stereotype of the Muslim savage animated the Wests domination, restructuring, and deculturalization of the Middle East.

Orientalism and Manifest Destiny have long animated American foreign policy and domestic treatment of its racial and religious minorities.

So-called Middle East experts produced knowledge that situated the West as eternally superior to the East; and imagined the East as anti-democratic and uncivilized. Islam was portrayed as backward and violent; thereby making Muslims savages who should be either converted or conquered. But its impact stretched beyond Europes borders.

British colonists brought with them Orientalism, which coupled with the ideology of Manifest Destiny, was used to justify the conversion or termination of Native Americans, enslavement of Africans, and exploitation of the Chinese. As nonwhite and non-Christian, these groups were deemed biologically inferior. As such, it was the white mans burden to teach, civilize, and save them from their savage nature.

Over time, the various offshoots of Orientalism animated our immigration policies in general and treatment of Muslims in particular. The Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 was grounded in the Orientalist construction of the Buddhist Asian as heathen. The Immigration Act of 1924 imposed a quota system with the intent to reduce immigration from non-European countries. With the number of immigrants from a country limited to two percent of people from that country in the U.S. in 1890 (thirty years before passage of the law), the percentage of immigrants from Western and Northern Europe soared. This explicit race-based immigration system purposely aimed to keep America predominantly white and Christian.

With passage of the Nationality Act of 1965, America effectively opened immigration from Asia, which included persons from Muslim majority countries in the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia. Like the White Nativism that gripped America in the early 1900s after millions of Southern and Eastern Europeans (deemed inferior whites) immigrated to the United States, the increase in non-European immigration triggered a new wave of xenophobia. And just as the Chinese and Japanese had experienced in decades prior, post-1965 immigrants were collectively blamed for international crisis between their country of origin and the United States.

The oil crisis with Saudi Arabia in the 1970s triggered a wave of anti-Arab and anti-Muslim discrimination. The Iranian revolution triggered a wave of anti-Iranian discrimination by both the state and the public. The conflict between Palestinians and Israelis perpetuated tropes of the Palestinian terrorist in the American media. And most recently, the rise of transnational terrorist groups such Al Qaeda and ISIS have led to the collective punishment of Muslims in America through mass surveillance, selective anti-terrorism enforcement, and private acts of discrimination.

Harking back to the Crusades and European Orientalism, American policy makers now invoke terms like radical Islamic terrorism to reify the centuries-long trope of the Muslim savage and barbarian whose very existence threatens the Christian West. That only a handful of Muslims in America, out of 6 million, have committed acts of terror is irrelevant because Orientalism is an ideology rooted in white supremacy and a clash of civilizations.

So when Trump signed his executive order allowing only Christian refugees and barring radical Islamic terrorists from America, he was no different than other U.S. presidents before him. His War on Terror is merely the latest version of Christian holy wars that use fear to manipulate the public into cowering to their rulers mandates.

In that regard, Trumps neo-Orientalism is the establishment.
President Donald Trump and Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Saturday spoke for the first time since Trump was sworn in -- a much anticipated talk about future relations between two world powers with a complicated history, including recent reports that Putin and Russia worked to influence the 2016 White House race on behalf of Trump.

Trump and Putin were expected to discuss the sanctions that Trumps predecessor, President Obama, imposed on Russia for annexing Ukraine's Crimea Peninsula in 2014.

The White House has yet to release details of the conversation.

The Kremlin said the world leaders talked about Ukraine, Irans nuclear program, North Korean aggression and better trade and economic ties but made no mention of the sanctions.

The message on the Kremlin website, translated to English, also stated that Trump and Putin talked about coordinating efforts to defeat the Islamic State and other terror groups around the world, particularly in Syria, torn apart in a bloody civil war that is approaching its sixth anniversary.

Putin has backed the regime of Syrian leader Bashar al Assad, while the United States favors an end to his rule.

The Kremlin also stated the leaders are working on a face-to-face meeting, but no date has been set.

The Putin call was just one of five Saturday by Trump to world leaders.

Trump, sworn in last week, also spoke by phone with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe; German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Francois Hollande. He is scheduled to speak later today with Australia Prime Minster Malcolm Turnbull.

In Trump's first call of the day, he and Abe discussed the importance of the U.S.-Japan alliance and cooperation on regional and global issues including investments and bilateral trade, according to the White House.

Trump also affirmed the United States commitment to ensuring the security of Japan, amid the continuing threat of North Korea. And the two leaders discussed the significance of Secretary of Defense James Mattis' upcoming visit to the region, including Japan, the White House said.

The annexation was widely considered an act of aggression toward neighboring Ukraine's effort to have a more democratic government.

Even the possibility of Trump lifting the sanctions has brought widespread concern, and criticism, from Washington Democrats and Republicans and from around the world.

"For the sake of Americas national security and that of our allies, I hope President Trump will put an end to this speculation  and reject such a reckless course, Arizona GOP Sen. John McCain said in a statement. If he does not, I will work with my colleagues to codify sanctions against Russia into law."

Trump had said that he is prepared to review the sanctions, as part of a large effort to improve relations with the United States former Cold War rival.

But he was noncommittal Friday, saying, "We'll see what happens. As far as the sanctions, very early to be talking about that."

Trump made the remarks Friday alongside British Prime Minster Theresa May, whose country -- as part of the European Union -- also levied sanctions on Russia following its provocations in Ukraine. May has said the sanctions should remain in place.

Mays White House trip made her the first world leader to visit Trump since he took office last week.

Putin and Trump spoke after Trumps presidential victory in November. Though they have never met, each has expressed admiration for each others forceful leadership style.

The U.S. intelligence services recently released a report that found Putin and Russia meddled in the White House race, in which Trump upset Democrat nominee Hillary Clinton.

The report found no evidence of vote tampering. But months of stolen, then leaked emails from the Democratic National Committee and Clinton campaign Chairman John Podesta had some damaging impact on Clintons presidential bid.

Trump has been openly critical of the report, and the Kremlin has denied involvement in the race.

Recent polls show that anti-American sentiment in Russia has dropped to 56 percent. Pollsters say its due to Trumps indication he wants to improve relations.

The Kremlin has welcomed Trump's promises to mend ties with Moscow, which also has been badly strained by the war in Syria.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
President Trump on Saturday signed one executive order and two memoranda -- to lengthen the ban on administration officials working as lobbyists and two related to national security, particularly strengthening efforts to defeat the Islamic State terror group.

The order on the lobbying ban extends the existing one from two years to five years and puts in place a lifetime ban on ex-officials lobbying for foreign countries.

Trump vowed on the campaign trail to make such changes and others, to voters chants of drain the swamp.

One memorandum attempts to strengthen the countrys National Security Council and Homeland Security Council. The second memorandum instructs the U.S. militarys Joint Chiefs of staff to come up with a plan in 30 days to defeat ISIS.

Lots of additional safety, Trump said in signing the actions at his desk. Weve been talking about doing this for a long time, many years.

In Trumps first nine days in office, he has now issued 15 executive orders.

The others include: multi-pronged orders on border security and immigration enforcement; two on reviving the Keystone XL pipeline and Dakota Access pipeline; withdrawing from the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal, a start to dismantling ObamaCare and imposing an immigration ban on refugees and residents of seven Muslim countries.
A federal judge has denied a motion to dismiss a lawsuit against two psychologists who designed the CIA's harsh interrogation methods for the war on terror.

U.S. District Judge Justin Quackenbush in Spokane on Friday declined a request by James Mitchell and John "Bruce" Jessen to dismiss the federal court lawsuit.

The American Civil Liberties Union sued the psychologists on behalf of Gul Rahman, who died in custody, and Suleiman Abdullah Salim and Mohamed Ahmed Ben Soud. They claim they were tortured in CIA prisons.

The lawsuit says interrogation methods such as waterboarding were developed by a Spokane, Washington, company owned by the two defendants that contracted with the CIA.

Quackenbush rejected arguments that Mitchell and Jessen acted as agents of the federal government, making them immune from lawsuits.
The teenage girl who was the target of an attempted rescue from a Brooklyn drug den last year  by a trio of vigilantes in a jacked-up pickup truck that was armed to the teeth  died this week from an overdose, according to a report.

Jenea Patterson, 18, was found dead Wednesday after using drugs with several friends in her rural hometown of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, according to The Citizens Voice.

Her dad, James Patterson, told the local newspaper that she had been struggling with addiction for quite some time, and that he had been trying to get her to seek treatment.

What I want to discuss is there is too much dope in the Valley, Patterson added. If we dont do anything, more are going to die.This was a baby. She was 18. But shes a baby, he said, explaining that drugs were a big problem in their area.

The Luzerne County Coroners Office told the Citizens Voice that they were investigating Jeneas death, and hadnt yet determined the cause pending an investigation.

John Cramsey, of nearby Zionsville, Pa., was arrested last June on the New Jersey side of the Holland Tunnel  along with pals Dean Smith, 53, and Kimberly Arendt, 29  as they attempted to bring Jenea back from a drug den in Brooklyn.

CLICK TO READ MORE FROM THE NEW YORK POST.
Ten people were shot at a party overnight in Haywood County, according to the TBI.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has taken over the case. They tell us the National Guard Armory in Brownsville was rented out for a party Friday night.

Around 11:45 p.m., a fight broke out.

The TBI said that after that fight, shots were fired. Ten people were hit.

The victims were taken to Jackson General Hospital. Two are expected to be transported to Regional One Medical Center in Memphis with non-life threatening injuries.

One victim is still being treated at Jackson General.

Seven others were treated and either released or are in the process of being released.

Click for more from FOX13Memphis.com.
A federal judge in Brooklyn, New York issued an emergency stay Saturday night that temporarily blocks the U.S. government from sending people out of the country after they have landed at a U.S. airport with valid visas.

The order barred U.S. border agents from removing anyone who arrived in the U.S. with a valid visa from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen. It also covered anyone with an approved refugee application. The Department of Homeland Security said that more than 170 people were denied entry to the U.S. as of Saturday night, according to Reuters.

The ruling by Judge Ann Donnelly of the U.S. District Courtfor the Eastern District of New York came during a hearing called after President Donald Trump issued an executive order blocking people from seven Muslim-majority from entering the United States and putting a temporary halt to refugee admissions

Twelve refugees were detained at JFK Airport within hours of Trump's order restricting immigration from seven majority-Muslim nations -- but two were released later in the day -- as hundreds of protesters continued to amass at the busy airport throughout the day and into the evening.

One of the Iraqis, Hameed Jhalid Darweesh, 53, was released by midday Saturday. I suffered to move here, to get my family here . I cant go back, Darweesh said shortly after his release, according to the New York Post. Asked if hed be killed in Iraq, he answered: Yes, yes.

Hameed Khalid Darweesh, an Army interpreter in Iraq, had been stopped as he traveled with his wife and three kids when agents pulled him aside, according to the New York Times.

What's happening at JFK is shameful. @NYCImmigrants Affairs Commissioner Nisha Agarwal is on the ground now working to help.  Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) January 28, 2017

The other Iraqi detainee, Haider Sameer Abdulkhaleq Alshawi, 33, was released at about 6:30 p.m. It was unclear how quickly the judge's order might affect people in detention.

Reps. Jerrold Nadler (D-Manhattan) and Nydia Velazquez (D-Brooklyn) announced the number of refugees held at the airport. This should not happen in America. We shouldnt have to demand the release of refugees one by one, the two members of Congress said in a statement.

"They have been detained illegally. I am begging you to go and revisit this. It's ill-advised, it's mean spirited," said Velazquez, during a press conference.

Meanwhile, the National Immigration Law Center and other civil liberties organizations have filed a suit in federal court in New York on behalf of the two Iraqi men that seeks to certify the case as a class-action on behalf of other who organizers claim have been detained illegally. Karen Tumlin, legal director at the NILC, issued the following statement:

Trumps order keeps some of the worlds most vulnerable people in life threatening danger. ... Many refugees like our client risked their lives to help the United States government. The fact that the government has now decided to turn its back on those who served and protected us isnt just unconscionable. Its unconstitutional.

Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe (D) held an afternoon press conference in response to Trump's actions to say that we "cannot tolerate this type of activity."

British Prime Minister Theresa May has also criticized Trump's ban, her official spokesman said Sunday that May does "not agree" with the order and will challenge the U.S. government if it has an adverse effect on British nationals.

The official comment came after May refused to condemn the ban during a visit to Turkey to meet with Turkish leaders. She said in Turkey the decision was a matter solely for the U.S.

The White House moved Saturday to defend the presidents refugee order, saying Muslims are not being targeted.

The notion that this is a Muslim ban is ludicrous, a senior administration official confirmed to Fox News.

In an interview with Fox News Justice with Judge Jeanine, former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani defended the ban saying it was perfectly legal, perfectly sensible. Giuliani added that the ban is not based on religion. It's based on places where there's substantial evidence that people are sending terrorists into our country.

Other travelers were being stopped from boarding U.S.-bound flights at overseas airports as the Trump refugee ban went into effect Friday night.

Protest grows at terminal 4 at JFK over at least 11 detained under Trump's executive order banning those from 7 Muslim nations pic.twitter.com/9t8lI0tlOZ  Bryan Llenas (@BryanLlenas) January 28, 2017

Trump on Friday suspended refugee admissions for four months and indefinitely banned those from war-torn Syria, pending program changes that are to ensure refugees won't harm national security.

A U.S. federal law enforcement official says any non-U.S. citizen from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia or Yemen is now barred from entering the United States.

That covers legal permanent residents -- green card holders -- and visa-holders from those seven countries who are out of the United States after Friday, when President Donald Trump signed an executive order with the temporary ban. They cannot return to the U.S. for 90 days.

The official says there's an exemption for immigrants and legal permanent residents whose entry is in the U.S. national interest, but it's unclear how that exemption will be applied.

The official says visa and green card holders already in the U.S. will be allowed to stay. The official wasn't authorized to publicly discuss the details of how Trump's order is being put in place and spoke only on condition of anonymity.

Customs and Border Protection is notifying airlines about passengers whose visas had been canceled or legal residents scheduled to fly back to the U.S., and the airlines are being told to keep them off those flights.

The order also imposes a temporary ban on travelers from Iran, Iraq, Somalia, Libya, Sudan and Yemen.

The lawyers said custom agents wouldnt let them meet with their clients who they said had valid visas to enter the U.S.

Who is the person we need to talk to? asked Mark Doss, a lawyer with the International Refugee Assistance Project.

Mr. President, the paper quoted a customs agent as responding. Call Mr. Trump.

President Trump's war on equality is already taking a terrible human toll. This ban cannot be allowed to continue, the group's Omar Jadwat said.

In Cairo, airport officials prevented seven U.S.-bound migrants -- six from Iraq and one from Yemen -- from boarding an EgyptAir flight to New York.

The officials said the seven migrants, escorted by officials from the U.N. refugee agency, were stopped from boarding the plane after authorities at Cairo airport contacted their counterparts at JFK.

Qatar Airways told passengers bound for the U.S. from the seven newly banned majority Muslim countries that they need to have either a U.S. green card or diplomatic visa to travel.

A statement on the company's website says: "Nationals of the following countries: Sudan, Libya, Somalia, Syria, Iran, Iraq, Yemen ... may travel to the U.S. only if they are in possession of a permanent resident card (Green card) or any of the below visas."

It listed foreign government, United Nations, international organization and NATO visas.

Late Friday, the International Rescue Committee called Trump's suspension of the U.S. refugee resettlement program a "harmful and hasty" decision.

The groups president David Miliband said, "America must remain true to its core values. America must remain a beacon of hope."

He said the U.S. vetting process for prospective refugees is already robust -- involving biometric screening and up to 36 months of vetting by "12 to 15 government agencies."

This is no time for America to turn its back on people ready to become patriotic Americans, he said.

The Associated Press and Fox News' Wes Barrett contributed to this report.
A man suspected of raping and killing a working young mother on the University of Texas campus in 1983 is in custody after years on the run.

Robert Van Wisse, 51, surrendered to authorities at the Texas border Thursday. He was apprehended six weeks after his name was added to the FBIs Ten Most Wanted Fugitive list.

He was wanted by Austin police in connection with the murder of 22-year-old Laurie Stout in September, 1983, Fox 7 Austin reports.

She was a University of Texas janitor and her body was found in a campus building restroom. She had a 19-month-old daughter.

The FBI says Van Wisse was the last person seen in the building before the murder but was initially ruled out as a suspect. He was a University of Texas student at the time.

He fled to Mexico in 1996 when DNA linked him to the crime, according to the FBI. His family had property in Mexico and he had been born there in Guadalajara.

He was a college student whose parents were both professionals, FBI Agent Justin Noble said of Van Wisse, according a Dallas Morning News report Friday. He grew up going to the best schools and living in the nicest neighborhood. He had the future in front of him and yet it appears he murdered a young woman making minimum wage trying to support her family and young child.

After surrendering, Van Wisse was jailed on two charges-- first degree murder and unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.

The victims daughter was still processing the news that Van Wisse was behind bars, Time Warner Cable News reported Friday.

Its just very shocking, Daile Stout said. Its not something I thought I was ever going to experience.
The Latest on a deadly car prowl in the Seattle suburb of Sammamish (all times local):

9:15 a.m.

Authorities in suburban Seattle say they have shot and wounded a suspect in a deadly car prowl.

The Seattle Times reports Saturday that (http://bit.ly/2keezlC) the King County Sheriff's Office tracked the suspect to an apartment late Friday and opened fire when a man and a 16-year-old boy emerged and pointed handguns at deputies.

The alleged suspect has been wanted since Wednesday after running over a man who confronted him in Sammamish.

The man killed trying to stop the car prowl is the 22-year-old son of a Seattle police officer.

The alleged suspect is in critical condition at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle.

His identity has not been released.

The teen was arrested early Saturday.

Deputies have not said if he was involved in the car prowl earlier in the week.

___

3:15 a.m.

A man who was struck and killed Wednesday after confronting a suspected car prowler in the Seattle suburb of Sammamish has been identified.

The Seattle Times reports (https://goo.gl/rJKRoa ) the King County Medical Examiner's Office identified him as Moises Elias Radcliffe.

Authorities say Radcliffe, who was the son of a Seattle police officer, was walking his dog at Beaver Lake Park when he saw someone trying to break into his parked car.

Authorities say Radcliffe ran over and tried to stop the suspect who jumped into a tan or gold SUV and began driving at Radcliffe.

Authorities say Radcliffe then pulled a gun and fired shots at the SUV but was hit and killed by the vehicle.

King County Sheriff's Sgt. Cindi West said Friday no arrests have been made.

___

Information from: The Seattle Times, http://www.seattletimes.com
An Iraqi pleaded for his life to President Donald Trump. A former Iraqi translator for the U.S. military landed in his new home with words of praise for America still on his lips. And community and church groups, geared up to welcome Syrian families, looked in dismay at homes prepared for refugees that may never be filled.

Trump signed a sweeping executive order Friday that he billed as a necessary step to stop "radical Islamic terrorists" from coming to the U.S. Included is a 90-day ban on travel to the U.S. by citizens of Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia or Yemen and a 120-day suspension of the U.S. refugee program.

Around the country and the world, refugees already approved for asylum here but not yet arrived, and families and refugee workers who had been eager to greet newcomers, adjusted to Trump's ban abruptly barring them and others from seven predominantly Muslim countries.

"What's next? What's going to happen next?" asked Mohammed al Rawi, an Iraqi-born American citizen in the Los Angeles area, on Saturday after his 69-year-old father, coming to visit his grandchildren in California, was abruptly detained at a transit stop and sent back to Iraq after 12 hours in detention. "Are they going to create camps for Muslims and put us in it?"

Refugee-rights groups and others immediately challenged the orders in court, and said the bans scapegoated Muslims and Arabs without making the United States safer.

Trump's order came down as Hameed Khalid Darweesh, a translator and assistant for the U.S. military in Iraq for 10 years now fleeing death threats over his U.S. ties, was just minutes away from landing at John F. Kennedy airport in New York.

U.S. officials detained Darweesh and another Iraqi whom the U.S. government also had already approved for entry to this country. After lawyers for refugee-rights organizations filed emergency petitions in federal court for their release, Darweesh walked free, to the applause of sign-waving demonstrators gathered at the airport to protest the ban.

"This is the soul of America," Darweesh told the crowd and reporters there, of those who had worked for his asylum and his release.

Asked what he thought of the United States now, Darweesh pointed a finger in the air, and said emphatically, "America is the greatest nation, the greatest people in the world."

Meathaq Alaunaibi, also a refugee from Iraq, was hoping to soon be reunited with her twin 18-year-old daughters who are in Baghdad. Alaunaibi, her husband, a son and another daughter were settled last August in Tennessee, as the twins completed their government review to enter the U.S. After Trump signed the order, she spoke by phone with her daughters.

"They are so worried and afraid because they're stuck there in Baghdad," Alaunaibi said Saturday. "They are young and they are strong, but I am crying all the time. I miss them."

Staff at U.S. agencies that resettle refugees were scrambling to analyze the order and girded for the wrenching phone calls that would have to be made to the thousands of refugees just days away from traveling to the U.S. Several staff who spoke to the AP burst into tears as they contemplated the future for people who had waited years to come into the country.

"It's complete chaos," said Melanie Nezer, policy director for HIAS, one of nine refugee resettlement agencies that work with the U.S. State Department. "It's heartbreaking."

The International Refugee Assistance Project, which aids foreign nationals targeted for their work for the U.S. government as well as other refugees, was sending the same message to asylum-seekers, most of them who had been waiting for years.

"We have to reach out to hundreds of our clients and explain that their future has been taken away from them, and we don't know when they'll get it back," said Becca Heller, the group's executive director.

An Iraqi in Mosul, an Iraqi city where the Islamic State group had seized control, despaired at word that what he had thought was an imminent flight to safety in America was now canceled, indefinitely.

"If you can write to Mr. Trump or find any other way to help me reunite with my family, please, I am dying in Iraq, please," the man, whose identity was withheld because he is still in danger in Iraq, wrote back to his U.S. lawyer by email.

Before Trump signed the order, more than 67,000 refugees had been approved by the federal government to enter the U.S., said Jen Smyers, refugee policy director for Church World Service. More than 6,400 had already been booked on flights, including 15 families that had been expected over the next few weeks in the Chicago area from Ethiopia, Eritrea, Iran, Syria and Uganda.

The bulk of refugees entering the U.S. are settled by religious groups, who organize churches, synagogues and mosques to collect furniture, clothes and toys for the refugees and set up volunteer schedules for hosting duties. All that work ground to a halt after Trump signed the order.

In Massachusetts, Jewish Family Service of MetroWest had been coordinating a group of doctors, community leaders, a local mosque and other volunteers to resettle 15 Syrian families, including a 1-year-old and 5-year-old who arrived Tuesday.

Now, two fully outfitted apartments remain empty and it's unclear when, if ever, the other refugees will be allowed to enter, said Marc Jacobs, chief executive of the Jewish service group.

"I'm very worried," he said. "This executive order will have a profound impact."

___

Associated Press writer Verena Dobnik contributed to this report from New York.
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A California woman says a man suspected of killing at least six women and children portrayed himself decades ago as a grieving widower raising his daughter on his own.

Bob Evans died in prison in 2010, seven years after being convicted of killing his wife in California. But New Hampshire authorities this week said he also killed two women and three girls in the 1980s, including his girlfriend, Denise Beaudin.

Evans, Beaudin and her infant daughter disappeared from New Hampshire in 1981. By 1986, Evans was living at an RV park in Scotts Valley, California, where he met Katherine Decker.

Decker says Evans frequently cried and said his wife had died when their daughter was a baby. Evans later abandoned the girl, and she was eventually adopted.
Three organizations claiming to do vital relief work on behalf of the United Nations in ravaged Somalia diverted millions of dollars intended for food, water, medicine, and other relief services for thousands of the most desperately suffering people in the world, according to confidential U.N. reports obtained by Fox News. Some of the money may have gone to terrorists.

Most of the aid supplies and services the organizations claimed to deliver never existed, according to U.N. investigators who began looking into the issue in late 2012, and issued their strictly confidential investigation results in November 2013 and May 2014.

Much of the missing money from the U.N.-administered Common Humanitarian Fund (CHF) for Somalia, the probers concluded, was diverted into the pockets of the officials involved -- but in one case, the investigators noted tersely, evidence suggested possible payment of project funds to a terrorist group.

That evidence, as presented in the reports obtained by Fox News, is intriguing but slender: a 2012 email between officials of one U.N. contractor who asks the head of his non-governmental organization (NGO) for money transfers, while reporting that a third colleague is pressed by al-Shabab to do the three payments as quickly as possible.

CLICK HERE FOR THE EMAIL.

The size and purpose of the briefly-mentioned payments is not mentioned in the email, and the U.N. investigators said they didnt have the investigative authority to look further into suspect bank accounts without the consent of bank owners.

For its part, the Geneva-based United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Assistance, or OCHA, told Fox News flatly that OCHA has no indication that any CHF cases are linked to the transfer of funds to terrorist organizations

Terrorist group al-Shabab is the radical Islamic organization that at times has controlled much of the hinterland of Somalia, and even much of its capital of Mogadishu, and still constitutes a deadly threat to the fledgling Somali government.

More than a year after the relief email was written, al-Shabab militants launched a May 2013 attack on the U.N.s own headquarters in Mogadishu, killing 15 people. The organization continues to launch attacks, including on U.N. relief efforts, even though recent U.S. drone strikes have killed some of its top leadership.

Where all the diverted money went is just one of the urgent issues that gets limited coverage in the three separate investigations into alleged NGO scams involving the high-priority CHF.

The humanitarian consequences of the alleged fraud are also not examined by the investigatorsexcept to note in every case that the relief was tied to alleviating Somalias 2010-2012 famine, which claimed the lives of over 260,000 Somalishalf of whom were children.

Indeed, the CHF was specifically intended to deal with that problem. It doled out more than $260 million between 2010 and 2013, the high-water mark of international concern for Somalia, with the aim of cutting red tape and getting aid fast to those who most desperately needed it. It was also expected to hand out tens of millions more in 2014 and this year.

Of the 2010-2013 tally, some 162 million was handled by the U.N.s Geneva-based Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairsan agency that was singled out by U.N. auditors last year for the way it ladled out CHF money with no assurance that the funds disbursed to NGOs were used for the intended purposes.

Many of its failings were linked in that examination to OCHAs practice of doling out 80 percent of the money for each CHF project up-front, and handing out the remaining 20 percent after project completion.

What the U.N. investigators examinations state is that in the case of three Kenya and Somalia-based organizations known as the Africa Rescue Committee (AFREC), the Humanitarian Action for Relief and Development Organization (HARDO), and the Mubarak for Relief and Development Organization (MURDO), the documentation of how the NGOs spent that initial 80 percent was largely a sham.

In each case, the probers reports offer lengthy proof that the trio showered their OCHA funders for years with phony receipts, padded invoices and doctored project reports as proof of their good work and expenses.

None of the three accused organizations had responded to questions from Fox News asking for their response to the reports by the time this article was published.

Given the vast amount of false documentation they say was involved, the investigators, working for the U.N.s Office of Internal Oversight Services, could only offer best estimates of the minimum amount of alleged fraud in 17 of 21 projects tied to the offending NGOs:

 at least 79 percent, or $2.31 million, of some 12 projects completed by AFREC and worth $2.94 million overall

 at least 73 percent, or roughly $620,000, of $850,000 given to HARDO for three projects

 at least 70 percent of spending claimed by MURDO in connection with two agreements, or about $378,000 out of $428,000

 in addition, possible similar distortions on four other projects with AFREC that the probers never examined. OCHA suspended the projects after spending about $1.4 million once concerns about the NGOs performance began to rise; the AFREC report notes that AFREC despite the suspension kept exaggerating project costs and continued under-implementing project activities.

Much of the allegedly fraudulent documentation could hardly be described as sophisticated. NGO officials ran padded invoices off of templates they allegedly stored on their office computers. The handwriting on invoices and other documentation from different sources was often the same.

In the case of HARDO, the investigators say, photographs offered as evidence that a U.N.-financed cash-for-work program was benefiting 1,100 people showed only a handful working on two small field projects.

CLICK HERE FOR THE HARDO REPORT.

When it came to staffing costs, the organizations not only padded their payrolls, but often double-billed the same staff to projects funded by other U.N. organizations or other humanitarian organizations. The same went for such things as vehicle rental expenses.

One reason why such double-billing was possible is that like OCHA, many -- if not most -- big humanitarian organizations rely on networks of local and international NGOs to carry out much of the delivery of humanitarian goods and services in harsh and dangerous areas like Somalia.

Many of them serve both as contractors and subcontractors on an array of different projects at the same timein the case of OCHAs portion of the CHF, for example, documents on the U.N. agencys website show that its contractors also include other U.N. agencies, from UNICEF to the U.N. Population Fund to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

At the same time, the investigators noted that the suspect NGOs had similar ties themselves. In the case of AFREC, their report cites funding received from, among others, UNICEF and the private relief agency Oxfam; for HARDO, the report mentions UNICEF and Oxfam again, as well as the U.S.-based private agency Mercy Corps.

CLICK HERE FOR THE AFREC REPORT (PART 1).

CLICK HERE FOR THE AFREC REPORT (PART 2).

All of which raises the question of whether, in the case of the three tainted organizations, how far the funding diversions might go.

In response to questions from Fox News, UNICEF reported that it had signed eight contracts with AFREC in Somalia from 2011 to 2015, and spent $2.6 million on them by 2013. It had an additional deal with MURDO for about $848,000, of which $767,000 had gone out the door.

CLICK HERE FOR THE MURDO REPORT.

So far as problems went, a UNICEF spokesperson declared that through its own monitoring and tips from other U.N. agencies, we determined that we needed to scrutinize the implementation and reporting (including financial reporting) on these projects. The process is on-going.

Britains Oxfam told Fox News that it had worked with all three of the suspect NGOs in the past, including AFREC in 2011, MURDO in 2013 and HARDO in 2014. A spokesperson said the agency has not experienced issues with any of the projects run by these partners, though it suspended work with HARDO pending three internal and external investigations into our programming. The investigations found nothing wrong, she said.

Mercy Corps, based in Portland, Oregon, reported that it had worked with HARDO until August 2012 and with AFREC until March 2013, but as sub-contractors on USAID projects. Two projects with AFREC were budgeted at about $1.19 million and in the case of the secondbuilding of a schoolthe project finished behind schedule and we decided that we would not work with them again.

As for HARDO, Mercy satisfactorily completed five projects budgeted at about $533,000 but added that we have not had the opportunity to work on any news projects with HARDO since August 2012.

For its part, OCHA told Fox News that when it came to the NGOs that U.N. investigators had probed, it was not able to comment on specific cases due to the ongoing investigations.

An OCHA spokesperson added, however, that the agency is determined to manage rather than avoid the risks of operating in high-risk environments in order to deliver critical programs.

Of course, no-one knows how widespread all of those risks may prove to be.

The most recent report of the U.N.s external Board of Auditors, for example, makes a guess that in Somalia, the amount of money OCHA might be at risk of losing to fraudsters -- or more sinister organizations -- is a lot more than the $3.3 million involved in the three investigative reports.

The external auditors put the number at more like 5 to 6 times as much, or about $17.1 million.

George Russell is editor-at-large of Fox News and can be found on Twitter: @GeorgeRussell or on Facebook.com/George Russell
Just this month, at least nine Miskito people have been killed, 20 have been wounded and hundreds have fled their ancestral lands in eastern Nicaragua.

The Miskito people, primarily of African-Native American ancestry, is an indigenous group in Honduras and Nicaragua.

The conflict flared up when the Miskito took up arms to try to expel a wave of mestizo, or mixed-race, newcomers attracted in part by the area's rich tropical hardwood groves. Some settlers have also clear-cut tropical forest for cattle ranching.

Miskito leaders call the settlers "colonists" and accuse them of forcibly seizing lands long considered communal property, helping themselves to food stocks and abusing the locals.

"Our people are going to (Honduras) because food is becoming scarce, there is no medicine. ... The rice harvest is on our lands but we can't go there because the colonists will kill us," said community leader Lacio Rivas of Santa Fe, a tiny hamlet on the meandering Coco River that forms the border between the Central American nations.

The region is largely cut off from the rest of Nicaragua, with roads reaching only some towns. Villagers paddle waterways in dugout canoes, wash clothes in brooks and live in wood and corrugated-metal-roof shacks raised on stilts. According to official statistics, at least 70 percent of residents are in poverty.

Miskito men patrol the humid terrain in knee-high boots, most of them armed with crude weapons such as double-pronged fishing spears, knives, machetes, bows and arrows. But some carry rifles they say they seized from invaders.

As the conflict intensified, authorities said Indians torched settlements. The Miskito replied that police in the area shot at them.

"This is the fault of the colonists. We have been on our lands for thousands of years, and they come and they invade us. We ask them to leave, and they start shooting at us," said Ambrosio Laicot, a villager from La Esperanza who lost his right eye in a clash. "They have no respect for our soul, so we don't have any respect for them."

Alex Fernandez, mayor of the river border city of Waspam, said he doesn't have a precise count, but hundreds of people have left for Honduras.

Many more have settled elsewhere in Nicaragua. About 1,000 of the 2,400 people who were living in Francia Sirpi have left for Puerto Cabezas, the capital of the North Caribbean Coast Autonomous Region. At least 200 people have fled to Waspam.

Nicaragua's Caribbean coast traditionally has been populated by three indigenous peoples  the Miskito, Mayagna and Rama  and the Afro-descendant Garifuna and Creole groups. They have been largely left alone in accordance with local custom and tradition, and autonomy laws bar the sale of communal lands.

President Daniel Ortega charges that corrupt individuals have "sold" such terrain to settlers from western Nicaragua, who don't know or don't care the titles are illegal.

"The con artists arrive and contact community leaders, give them some money and draw up paperwork, which has no validity, selling property to those who arrive from the Pacific" side of the country, Ortega said recently.

He has ordered an investigation. But some Miskito leaders allege that government officials with financial ties to lumber companies support the settlers.

Based on reporting by the Associated Press.

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A group of 14 Venezuelans who crossed illegally into neighboring Guyana apparently to flee the economic crisis engulfing their country will be deported by the end of the week, Guyanese officials said Tuesday.

Police Chief Seelall Persaud said he was sympathetic to the plight of the migrants but authorities had no choice but to detain them after they were found near the western border.

"We don't have that liberty and latitude not to arrest them on humanitarian grounds," Persaud said. "That is a policy change that government would have to make."

The nine men and five women appeared before a judge Monday and pleaded guilty to entering the country without authorization. One of the Venezuelans, Yineurys Lara, told the court they had no food and had come to Guyana out of desperation.

"Guyanese come over into our country and work freely, so we tried the same thing," the 26-year-old said.

Venezuelans have been leaving their country in increasing numbers amid a crash of the oil-dependent economy that has led to widespread shortages. But most have typically gone to more developed places than Guyana, one of the poorest and least developed in the region.

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British Prime Minister Theresa May, who met with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington, is due to arrive in Turkey for a meeting with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan  another important but complicated British ally.

Talks in Ankara on Saturday will focus on boosting trade between Turkey and Britain once the U.K. leaves the European Union, and on increasing cooperation over security and counterterrorism.

The British prime minister is under pressure to condemn Turkey's clampdown on civil liberties since the government crushed a coup attempt in July.

Her office said Britain urged Turkey "to ensure that their response is proportionate, justified and in line with international human rights obligations."

May and Turkish leaders are also expected to discuss the conflict in Syria and efforts to reunite Cyprus.
German Chancellor Angela Merkel and U.S. President Donald Trump discussed conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine on Saturday and agreed on the importance of NATO during their first call since Trump's inauguration, according to joint statement by Merkel's office.

The two leaders had an "extensive phone conversation" in which they also talked about relations with Russia, said Merkel's spokesman Steffen Seibert.

"They expressed their intention to further deepen the already excellent bilateral relations in the coming years," Seibert said.

On NATO, both agreed on the "fundamental importance that the NATO alliance has for trans-Atlantic relations" and the need for all members to pay their fair share. Trump has repeatedly said some U.S. allies don't spend enough on their militaries.

In the joint statement, there was no mention of refugees, not even of Trump's move on Friday banning refugees from several Muslim-majority countries from entering the United States. That move drew sharp criticism Saturday from French President Francois Hollande, Germany's European Union ally, among others.

Trump had severely criticized Merkel during his election campaign, claiming she was "ruining" Germany by allowing hundreds of thousands of asylum-seekers into the country.

In turn, Merkel had raised eyebrows after Trump's victory by insisting that the basis for cooperation between Berlin and Washington should be "democracy, freedom and human rights worldwide, and to strive for an open and liberal world order."

Seibert said Trump accepted Merkel's invitation to attend the G-20 meeting in Hamburg, Germany, in July. Trump also said he looked forward to welcoming Merkel in Washington "soon," according to the statement.

It was the second time Trump and Merkel have spoken by phone. They first spoke when the German chancellor called Trump shortly after the election to congratulate him on his victory.
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Many worshippers at a large religious gathering in South Africa this weekend will wear leopard skins, seen as symbols of status and power. But some of the pelts are fake, reflecting an effort by an international conservation group to reduce poaching of the threatened animals.

The Shembe church of southern Africa, which mixes Christian and traditional Zulu beliefs, is expected to draw many thousands of people Sunday near the city of Durban.

The Panthera conservation group says it has donated more than 14,000 fake leopard skins to Shembe followers and that demand for real leopard pelts in the Shembe community in South Africa has dropped by 50 percent because of the campaign.

Panthera launched its "Furs for Life" project in 2013.
A monk and the abbot of a Mt. Athos monastery deemed schismatic by the Greek Orthodox church have been sentenced in absentia to 20 years in prison by a court in this northern Greek city.

Antypas, one of 118 monks at the 1,000-year-old monastery, was sentenced for throwing firebombs at a court bailiff who was trying to evict the monks from a building in Karyes, capital of the Mt. Athos monastic community, in July 2013.

Abbot Methodios was convicted for incitement. Another six monks, sentenced to 10 years as accessories, were freed on appeal.

The Esphigmenou monks are in a bitter dispute with the Istanbul-based Ecumenical Patriarch, spiritual leader of the world's Orthodox Christians, whom they accuse of treason for seeking better relations with the Catholic Church.
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Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has a message for refugees rejected by U.S. President Donald Trump: Canada will take you.

He also intends to talk to Trump about the success of Canada's refugee policy.

Trudeau reacted to Trump's ban of Muslims from certain countries by tweeting Saturday: "To those fleeing persecution, terror & war, Canadians will welcome you, regardless of your faith. Diversity is our strength #WelcomeToCanada."

Trudeau also posted a picture of him greeting a Syrian child at Toronto's airport in late 2015. Trudeau oversaw the arrival of more than 39,000 Syrian refugees soon after he was elected.

A spokeswoman for Trudeau said Trudeau has a message for Trump.

"The Prime Minister is looking forward to discussing the successes of Canada's immigration and refugee policy with the President when they next speak," Trudeau spokeswoman Kate Purchase told The Associated Press.

Trudeau is expected to the visit the White House soon.

The prime minister has refrained from criticizing Trump to avoid offending the new president. More than 75 percent of Canada's exports go to the U.S.

Toronto Mayor John Tory also weighed in, noting that the city is the most diverse in the world.

"We understand that as Canadians we are almost all immigrants, and that no one should be excluded on the basis of their ethnicity or nationality," Tory said in a statement.

Trump signed a sweeping executive order Friday that he billed as a necessary step to stop "radical Islamic terrorists" from coming to the U.S. Included is a 90-day ban on travel to the U.S. by citizens of Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia or Yemen and a 120-day suspension of the U.S. refugee program.

Trump's order singled out Syrians for the most aggressive ban, ordering that anyone from that country, including those fleeing civil war, are indefinitely blocked from coming to the United States.

The Syrian refugee crisis became a major issue in Canada's election in late 2015 because of the haunting image of a drowned 3-year-old Syrian boy washed up on a Turkish beach. The boy had relatives in Canada.

Trudeau's tweet quickly received more than 150,000 likes. "Welcome to Canada" trended in Canada.
Police in Senegal say the Gambia official accused of overseeing the torture of prisoners under former leader Yahya Jammeh has been arrested.

A police statement says Borra Colley was arrested Wednesday while trying to make his way to Guinea Bissau.

Colley had been director of the notorious Mile Two prison. He also led the Jungulars, Jammeh's personal military of some 50 officers who reportedly went into exile with him last weekend in Equatorial Guinea.

Some former Gambian officials fled the country during the political crisis that ended this week with the arrival of new President Adama Barrow.
Saying his effort had been unfairly dragged into Virginias redistricting debate, a Republican lawmaker on Friday abandoned a bill that would allocate Virginias Electoral College votes by congressional district rather than the existing, winner-take-all system for presidential contests.

Del Mark L. Cole, RSpotsylvania, the chairman of the House of Delegates committee on elections, urged the committee to kill the bill Friday, saying it had been wrongly associated with debates over redistricting and gerrymandering.

The opponents of it think its associated with redistricting when its really not, Cole said. It wasnt my intent. My intent was to try and distribute them a little bit more based on the actual voting.

Under the current system, Virginias 13 electoral votes have gone to Democrats in the last three presidential contests after the Democratic ticket won the statewide vote. Because Republicans hold seven of Virginias 11 U.S. House seats, a district-based system would give the GOP a competitive edge amid the partys losing streak in statewide elections that dates to 2009.

Only Maine and Nebraska use a presidential electoral system based on congressional districts rather than winner-take-all.

Proponents of the change believe it will better reflect the will of voters in Virginias various regions, but critics say it will further entrench partisan gerrymandering, the practice of drawing voter districts to retain or gain power.

Several Democratic-backed legal efforts have been launched in recent years to challenge Virginias political map. Last year, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a redrawn congressional map that allowed Democrats to pick up the new, Richmond-centered 4th District. Another redistricting case challenging lines for statehouse districts is pending.

Cole pointed to the pending litigation and the General Assemblys distaste for changing policy during lawsuits as one reason for dropping the effort. He also said that even if the bill passed, Democratic Gov. Terry McAuliffe would veto it.

Democrats opposed the bill, and Cole said that even if the General Assembly passed it, McAuliffe would veto it.

I think probably the time is not right for it, though I still think its a good policy and something we may pursue in the future, Cole said.

A Senate version of the bill died in committee earlier this week.

For the year, its done, Cole said.

The bill is House Bill 1425.
The building at 530 Princess Anne St. in downtown Fredericksburg started out as a gas station in 1949, grew into a office building during a 1997 renovation, and in 2017, it could be yours.

The 2,900-square-foot building is being auctioned by sealed bid by the Community Foundation, the nonprofit which manages and distributes charitable giving in the Rappahannock River region.

The foundation received the building as a donation from Mary Jane ONeill who purchased the former Kayo Gas Station in 1989 and renovated it to become the headquarters of her Cullen Properties in 1997.

I wanted to give something back to the community, ONeill said.

During the renovation, ONeill had industrial fixtures installed, as well as large windows that give the appearance of the buildings original garage doors. She also added multiple offices to the original structure.

The property has a parking lot with eight spaces and a garage.

ONeill is a longtime donor to the Community Foundation and donated the building as she prepares to retire.

The building is assessed by the city at $766,700, and the minimum bid that will be accepted is $590,000.

Bids must be mailed to P.O. Box 208, Fredericksburg, Va. 22404 or hand delivered to 725 Jackson St., Suite 114, Fredericksburg, Va. 22401 by Friday, Feb. 28 at 2 p.m.

Teri McNally, executive director of the Community Foundation, said funds from the auction will go to creating the organizations first endowment and will contribute to its community enrichment fund, which aids immediate needs in the community.

Its a very cool property and a very generous gift, she said.

The Community Foundation is also celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2017 and will give out four grants of $20,000 to local organizations involved with the environment, arts, human services and education.

To find out more about the auction and the recently announced 2017 grant cycle, go to cfrrr.org.
After learning that the Supreme Court unanimously ruled in June 2015 that signs cannot be regulated based on content, Stafford County and many other localities across the country became immersed in the convoluted process of revising their sign ordinances to remove content-based restrictions.

County officials have held several meetings and public hearings to determine how to amend the ordinance to ensure compliance without impinging on political campaigns, businesses, Realtors, schools, churches and other organizations and individuals.

At a meeting on Tuesday, Stafford supervisors approved the amended ordinance by a 43 vote. Supervisors Wendy Maurer, Jack Cavalier and Gary Snellings voted against it.

The county followed a model sign ordinance developed by the Virginia Local Government Attorneys Association to assist localities in complying with the Supreme Courts ruling.

The amended ordinance limits the number of temporary signs to three per parcel. These signs can be put up for only two 60-day periods each year; otherwise, a permit is required. The ordinance also sets the maximum size for temporary signs at 32 sq. ft.

Maurer worries that these changes may impact political free speech. She said that with four supervisor seats up for re-election this year, it is injudicious timing to implement regulations that limit the number of political signs that may be posted on a property.

She noted that the amended ordinance could tilt the election in favor of the incumbents by creating rules that did not exist when the current board members ran their campaigns. New candidates will be limited to three signs per parcelany more than that would be subject to removal or need a permit.

She also said the time restriction will impact how long signs can stay up during an election. Temporary signs put up for the primaries will need to be taken down and put up again for the general election in order to comply with the 60-day rule.

My concern is that because it is a campaign year, the optics are bad, she said. We need to protect political speech.

Supervisor Laura Sellers said the limitations impact everyone, so the supervisors are also restricting their own ability to put up more than three signs.

It is complex, but our ordinance is out of compliance, so we have to fix it, she said.

Chairman Paul Milde said he is not committed to any particular number, but the three-sign limit without a permit provides a good starting point for discussion. The county has been operating under an unenforceable ordinance, which would have continued to be the case without passage of the amended ordinance in compliance with the courts ruling, he explained.

It has been a sign free-for-all in Stafford for several monthswe had stopped enforcement, he said.

County officials will have the opportunity to continue the discussion. Supervisors voted 61 to create a committee made up of two supervisors and two members of the Planning Commission to examine amendments to the ordinance. The committee will report their findings to the board.

I am supporting this knowing there is a second bite at the apple, Supervisor Bob Thomas said.

Other localities have also been grappling with the impact of the courts ruling on political campaign signs. Loudoun County, for example, considered the possibility of exempting political signs from the temporary sign regulations before determining that political signs cannot be treated differently based on content.

Loudoun officials have recommended determining the number of temporary signs allowed based on lot size or lot frontage. Temporary, on-site signs would be limited to one sign for a 10 acre lot and two signs on a lot greater than 10 acres. Temporary, off-site signs would be limited to one per applicant per lot.

Stafford supervisors also voiced concerns regarding enforcement of the ordinance. Snellings worries that people will begin monitoring how long political candidates keep their signs up, and reporting them if their signs exceed the 60-day limit.

I can see this turning into a political witch hunt, Snellings said. The ordinance is complex and cumbersome. Until it is ready for prime time, I cant support it.

In addition to being difficult to enforce, there are costs associated with hiring personnel to enforce these regulations, Cavalier added.

Milde said the new sign ordinance is nearly identical to the old one, and has been dramatically simplified by eliminating the categories dealing with content. He also explained that they have not added anything more restrictive to the current ordinance.

We are not trying to create a new sign law, Milde said. We have kept the sign ordinance as iswe are just taking out the content regulations.

The new sign ordinance

has been dramatically simplified by eliminating

the categories dealing

with content.
HERES a look at some recent news affecting the Fredericksburg region and our take on it.

THANKS, MS. HARRISON

She has a depth of knowledge about the history of Culpeper that is unmatched.

Thats how one admirer recently described Lee LangstonHarrison after touring Culpeper County sites with her via trolley.

So its the countys loss and the Northern Necks gain that LangstonHarrison departed the Museum of Culpeper History this month, after 10 years at the helm, for a similar post at the Reedville Fishermens Museum. The village is home to one of the nations most productive fisheries, giving Harrison a whole new set of topics to explore.

May she be as successful there as she was in Culpeper.

Keith Price, a former president of the countys museum board of directors, credits LangstonHarrison with many of the museums achievements.

She greatly expanded our range of exhibits, educational programs and fundraising efforts, he said. She was also the main architect of the museums highly successful move to the historic depot in downtown Culpeper in 2014.

As thousands of visitors to downtown Culpeper know, the museum anchors one end of the towns atmospheric historic district and helps orient new arrivals to the communitys heritage and cultural offerings.

One incredible event that LangstonHarrison popularized was the museums car-caravan tours of the Culpeper quarry, where lucky participants walked in the footsteps of dinosaurs whose tracks remain imprinted in its rock layers, deep within the giant excavation. That idea was but one good example of the outside the box thinking that she did, and that more historical sites are giving a try.

I love Culpeper and Ive made so many friends, LangstonHarrison told the Culpeper StarExponent. I love this museum, and weve been striving for years to make it the best small community museum in Virginia. And I think we are really close to that now. I leave it in good hands with the board and staff.

Well done.

FOSTERING YOUNG TALENT

The Fredericksburg area has a healthy and vibrant music scene with lots of local talent.

Proof: Events regularly noted in this newspapers Weekender section; the fine concerts by the University of Mary Washington Philharmonic Orchestra and the Rappahannock POPS Orchestra; and the Music On the Steps and Music in Market Square shows offered free downtown in the summertime.

But the existence of one long-running community effort that encourages the areas young musicians to persevere and strive toward perfection was news to us, we confess.

So it was a delight to read about the ArtsLIVE! Young Artists Competition in Mondays Free LanceStar. Writer Adele UphausConner made it clear that the program enlivens music lovers lives and cheers on aspiring artists.

Thats a tonic our region needs more of.

The ArtsLIVE! competition rewards the very best young people who audition in instrument, piano or voice categories. Its so tough that this year, none of the vocalists who tried out made the cut.

Weve set the bar very high, organizer Tina Gemmill said. The skill that these kids have is incredibleto perform 24 pages of notes all memorized, for example. I think they just dont get the appreciation, and as a public we should be encouraging this.

Just so. This idea is one that more people should applaud.

Lets rejoice that ArtsLIVE! board member Cornelia Bryant understands its value. The Fredericksburg woman has underwritten the match for each of its 13 years, providing small scholarships for the winners.

The aim is to give the regions best young talents a shot at experiencing a professional competition and performing for a receptive audience.

These are the most serious students, the ones we think might go on as musicians, Gemmill said of this years 19 contestants.

Heres a big shout-out to Ms. Bryant and the 2017 judgesRappahannock POPS Orchestra conductor Jim Ford, Riverbend High School orchestra director Alison Rolf and pianist Marilla Haasfor making this wonderful program work.
American people will end up paying for wall

In a recent op-ed column, [Oh, yes, Trump can make Mexico pay for the wall, Jan. 24] writer Mark Thiessen suggested that Mexico could indeed be forced to pay for Mr. Trumps wall.

His argument is clever, positing that by imposing a 20 percent import tax on goods from Mexico the United States could raise billions per year, more than enough to build the as-yet-undefined border wall. Yes, by imposing an import tax, that amount of money could be raised, but not from Mexico. From us.

Let me explain. Suppose a Mexican firm makes widgets at a unit cost of $50. They sell them to a distributor in Arizona for $100, for a net profit of $50 each. The distributor sells them to stores throughout our nation for $150, and you and I buy these widgets for $300 each. Thats how it works. But consider that when the Mexican firm makes its $100 on each sale to the distributor in Arizona, the U.S. imposes a 20 percent import tax. Does the Mexican firm pay that $20 and accept a net profit of $30/each? Of course not. It raises its price to $125, the distributor raises its cost to $175, and you and I end up paying $325.

No company on the face of the earth absorbs increases in the cost of business. It cant if it wants to remain profitable. Any increase in cost is reflected in an increase in price. The consumer ends up paying every time. Mr. Trump apparently doesnt know that.

In real estate, you negotiate the best deal you can, pocket the profits and then move on. Manufacturing is very different. The consumer, you and me, will end up paying for this tax. Thats the way its always worked.

Scott Howson

Fredericksburg
Balancing risk and benefit

Long-term follow-up is not just for transplant survivors. Many cancer therapies are tracked for years or decades after patients receive treatment. For some, like immunotherapy and other therapies that involve genetically modified cells, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration strongly recommends a 15-year follow-up period to understand the new therapies possible delayed effects, Martin said.

Long-term tracking studies are necessary to understand whether a cure is really a cure. When bone marrow transplantation was first developed at the Hutch in the 1960s and 70s, it took several years of tracking survivors for researchers to understand that the procedure was working to cure leukemia.

And sometimes, following patients who were treated with older therapies lays the groundwork for a better understanding of new treatments, too. Fred Hutch clinical researcher Dr. Mazyar Shadman led a study published earlier this week in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, describing 10 years of follow-up data from a large clinical trial for patients with follicular lymphoma.

Known as SWOG S0016, the trial was led by former Fred Hutch lymphoma researcher, the late Dr. Oliver Press, who holds the David and Patricia Giuliani/Oliver Press Endowed Chair in Cancer Research. The trial started in 2001 and included more than 500 patients with previously untreated, advanced follicular lymphoma. SWOG S0016 compared a standard combination of chemotherapy drugs commonly referred to by the acronym CHOP, combined with either the immunotherapy drug rituximab, a lymphoma-specific antibody, or a similar antibody-bearing a radioactive molecule. R-CHOP, as the combination of the chemotherapies and rituximab is called, had newly become the standard of care at the time, although its not used as frequently these days.

This blood cancer is generally very slow-growing, Shadman said, making lengthy tracking of follicular lymphoma treatments especially important. The studys initial results, published in 2013, found that both groups of patients  those whod received rituximab and those who had received the radioimmunotherapy  did very well, with no significant difference in overall survival. Approximately 90 percent of patients were still alive five years after treatment.

Now, after having followed the patients for 10 years, the longer-term results arent turning any of those older findings on their head, Shadman said. The two groups continue to do well  about 80 percent of the trial participants were still alive in 2016. Those whod received rituximab had a slightly higher chance of their cancer coming back as compared to those treated with the radiolabeled antibody, but that didnt affect their overall survival, the researchers found.

Multiple levels of reassurance

Shadman, who also treats patients with lymphoma and other blood disorders at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, Fred Hutchs clinical care partner, finds multiple levels of reassurance from tracking this study for so long. For one, he now can tell his patients exactly what they can expect in terms of their chances for long-term survival if they are treated with the type of combination therapy studied in SWOG S0016, more broadly known as chemoimmunotherapy.

But the follow-up is important not just for patients treated exactly like those in the study, he said. The findings will also be useful as a baseline for comparison. There are a lot of new targeted therapies for follicular lymphoma on the scene or coming down the pike, drugs such as lenalidomide, venetoclax, ibrutinib, and idelalisib, all of which either boost the immune system to act against cancer cells or target specific proteins involved in some follicular lymphomas and other blood cancers.

Researchers and patients alike are excited about the potential of these drugs to improve cancer treatment, but studies like Shadmans are necessary to provide the context, he said.

Its very important to know what are your historical data, whats your benchmark, he said. If you dont know how well you can do with chemoimmunotherapy, you dont know if theres any room for improvement.

Likewise, similar studies will be needed for those new therapies themselves.

If I have a new drug today and I give it to my patients and their lymphoma goes away, but Ive only followed them for six months, what do I know about the risk of other types of cancers five years from now? What if their lymphoma comes back? How difficult is it going to be to treat? These are real issues, Shadman said. In medicine, there should be an ongoing assessment of risk and benefit. If you dont know your long-term risks, you dont know how reasonable it is to accept that short-term benefit.
By Stef Gijssels We love solo bass albums, and it seems that they keep coming in great numbers. The overview below is indeed nothing more t...
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Readers, we need your help to prove a merry Christmas for victims of domestic violence.
Feb. 20, 1934  Dec. 24, 2016

Roland Gerald McCormick was born in Edmonton, Alberta, on Feb. 20, 1934. In 1947, his family moved to Dallas where he attended Dallas High School. He earned a teaching degree from the Oregon College of Education, and in1955, married his high school sweetheart Joyce Bartel.

After he served overseas in the Navy, Roland and Joyce settled in Albany, where Roland taught at Lafayette Elementary. His career as a beloved teacher spanned 33 years, several schools, and nearly 1,000 students. Specializing in fifth grade, he cared deeply for each student, inspiring and challenging them. He also earned his Masters in education from Oregon State University.

In 1965, Roland, Joyce, and their children moved to New Hampshire and then Woodstock, Vermont. In 1974, Roland and Joyce fulfilled a lifelong dream: purchasing land and building a farmhouse outside Independence. After retirement, they traveled frequently across the globe, and last July, celebrated 61 years of marriage.

Roland was a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, an avid reader and scholar, and a talented musician with a rich baritone voice who loved singing hymns with his family and in church. Above all, he was a committed Christ follower who shared the love of Jesus with everyone he encountered. After 82 years on earth, this chapter of Rolands life has ended, but we know that Christmas Eve 2016 marked the day his true story with Jesus began. He leaves behind a family who misses him greatly: his wife, three siblings, three children, and six grandchildren.

Roland supported younger generations worldwide. If you would like, consider making a donation or sponsoring a child through World Vision in his memory. A service to remember and celebrate Rolands life will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 11 at Riverside Baptist Church, 1300 NW Springhill Dr., Albany, 97321. Online memories and condolences can be shared at www.dallastribute.com. The Dallas Mortuary Tribute Center is caring for the family.
A dragon and lions helped ring in the Year of the Fire Rooster for the 2017 Chinese New Year on Friday at Ashbrook Independent School.

Students in the schools Chinese language program hosted their 10th annual parade, kicking off a weeks-long celebration of the Chinese New Year, which begins Saturday in accordance to the lunar calendar. 2017 marks the Year of the Fire Rooster, which last fell in 1957.

Fridays parade featured a dragon dance from the schools seventh- and eighth-grade classes, a lion dance from the schools fifth- and sixth-graders and a traditional Chinese New Years song and ribbon dance from the second-graders.

Nine students danced through the schools gym while holding up poles attached to a 20-foot-long dragon to open the parade. The dragon dance, an annual staple of the celebration in China, mimics the river spirit believed to bring good luck to people in the coming year.

Lena Becker-Blease, 13, who got to lead the dragon through the gym to the delight of students and family, had been looking forward to the parade for months.

Weve been spending a lot of time in class working on it and it was really cool to get that experience, Lena said. Its something I never really got to grow up with. To see the influence of other cultures is really interesting and its really cool that we get opportunities to do that.

Luh Jang Chen, the schools Chinese teacher, said students had been preparing for the parade since the beginning of the school year.

Its important that they understand the culture and speak the language, Chen said. If they love it, they will learn it.

While the dragon dance has also been a staple of Ashbrooks celebration, this years parade marked the first celebration of the lion dance. Months prior to the dance, Chen led students in creating their own masks as part of an immersive art project, all the while learning the language.

So as they would have the water, I would say this is how you say water (shui), and as they would dip the newspaper, I would say this is how you say newspaper (Baozhi) in Chinese, Chen said. They would hear it and would touch it and it would make the memory easier.

Principal Melissa Hausmann said Chen also teaches choreography to the students alongside the language.

The Chinese program is not just about speaking the language. They incorporate a lot of cultural experiences, such as song and dance, and also the artwork. (Chen) does most of the artwork herself, Hausmann. We have the best Chinese teacher.  She has built a phenomenal Chinese program. Letting her have the freedom to put on assemblies that really support the Chinese culture means a lot to her and it means a lot to the school.

The celebration is set to continue through the next couple of weeks with the schools Foreign Language Festival, a week-long showcase of the schools foreign language programs.

Its really nice to see the progression, Hausmann said. Seeing the kids verbalize those skills is just incredible.
Here is a look at public meetings scheduled in the coming week:

Monday

 The Philomath City Council will hold a goal-setting session at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall, 980 Applegate St.

Tuesday

 The task force working on the City Council goal of a climate action plan meets at 5 p.m. at the Madison Avenue Meeting Room, 500 S.W. Madison Ave. The task force, which received council approval of its draft plan Dec. 12, will look at next steps and a strategy for developing its implementation plan.

 Councilor Charlyn Ellis will host a meeting for Ward 5 residents at 7 p.m. at the Chintimini Senior and Community Center, 2601 N.W. Tyler Ave.

Wednesday

 The Corvallis Community Involvement and Diversity Advisory Board meets at 5 p.m. at the Madison room. The board will discuss criteria for the neighborhood empowerment grants it will be awarding.

 The Corvallis Planning Commission meets at 7 p.m. at the downtown fire station, 400 N.W. Harrison Blvd. No public hearings are scheduled. Commissioners will discuss their annual work plan and the mixed-use employment zone.

 The Corvallis-Benton County Library Advisory Board meets at 7:30 p.m. at the library, 645 N.W. Monroe Ave.

Friday

 The Corvallis Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board meets at 7 a.m. at the Madison room.

Feb. 4

 Ward 7 Councilor Bill Glassmire will team up with newcomer Hyatt Lytle of Ward 3 for the 10 a.m. to noon government comment corner at the library.

 The League of Women Voters of Corvallis will host a legislative town hall from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the library. State Sen. Sara Gelser and Reps. Dan Rayfield, Andy Olson and Mike Nearman have been invited to participate in a discussion of the 2017 legislative session.
1,233 million euros raised for Weihnachtslicht : Record donors for GA holiday charity

Bonn The GA campaign to raise money for needy seniors in Bonn was a huge success this year. There were 600 more donors than in the previous year and around 3,000 elderly neighbors could be helped.

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Support for the General Anzeigers holiday charity to help needy seniors was overwhelming this year. The holiday project is called Weichnachtslicht, which literally means Christmas light, but also carries the implication of bringing light or joy to someone at Christmas time. This year in 2016, two new bests were achieved: 1,233,821.59 euros was raised. This was made possible by the 9,925 donors, large and small - and it was around 600 more donors than in 2015. More than ever before.

When it comes to helping, even the smallest didnt forget the oldest. Around 100 girls and boys from the Bonn Kindergarten Botania sold home-made sweets and raised 450 euros for the charity.

The charity campaign of the General Anzeiger, just like that of the Kolnsiche Rundschau is one of the oldest put on by a regional newspaper in Germany. In that way, the GA and its supporters are pioneers: For 65 years, they have stood by needy seniors living directly in local communities here in Bonn. Their exceptional engagement is directed towards a group of people who are often forgotten. Already in 1952, GA wrote, Poverty amongst seniors is one of the most dismal and scary things of our time.

Today, Germany is a relatively well-off country but one thing still remains: the fear of senior poverty. The numbers and prognosis are alarming. According to one welfare association, around 12.5 million people are living in poverty today in Germany. The elderly are especially affected.
iPhone 8 to feature dual-edge curved screen; Japan Display confirms making flexible screen News oi -Abhinaya Prabhu iPhone 8 with dual-edge curved screen could be a reality.

Japan Display, the supplier of screens for Apple devices has come up with great news for Apple fans. Well, the company has stated that they are making flexible screens.

Lately, there were rumors that the display of the upcoming iPhone that is the iPhone 8 will be curved at the edges similar to what we already saw on the Samsung Galaxy S7 edge. Having received a confirmation from the display manufacturer of Apple, it is clear that the iPhone 8 will arrive with the curved display design.

As of now, Japan Display has not revealed the name of the device for which it is developing the flexible display. The company also supplies displays to Huawei, so there is a possibility that curved display phones might come from the Chinese brand's stable. However, Apple is pegged to launch the first iPhone with a bendable AMOLED display sometime later this year.

This iPhone 8 concept is bizarrely interesting

Back in November 2016, Apple had filed a patent showing a foldable iPhone that can bend at a specific degree. As Japan Display has confirmed that the flexible display is in the making, there is a very high possibility for the foldable iPhone to become a reality soon.

Notably, there is a lot of difference between the flexible screens and bendable or foldable displays. While bendable displays will let the users fold or roll, the foldable screens on smartphones will take some more time to come to reality. Such screens will not get cracked, but these are quite expensive.

Apple iPhone 8 long-range wireless charging feature appears in a fresh leak

It is not quite simple to see iPhones with flexible displays as the device must arrive with bendable components as well. There are rigid components including the battery in a phone that makes building a flexible iPhone a tedious task. Considering this fact, we can expect the flexible screen that is in the making at Japan Display to be a dual-edge curved screen as the one on Samsung devices

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ZTE to launch Blade A610 Plus with 5,000mAh battery on February 3 News oi -Samden Sherpa ZTE is likely to launch the Blade A610 Plus.

ZTE, the Chinese smartphone manufacturer is bringing a new smartphone to the market and has sent out media invites for a launch event in Delhi on February 3.

While the company has been secretive about the details of the smartphone but taking into account the rumors and leaked reports, ZTE is likely to launch the Blade A610 Plus.

According to a BGR India report, the upcoming ZTE smartphone might feature a 5,000mAh battery and in conjunction with the partial teaser on the invite, it further confirms that the smartphone could be Blade A610 Plus. The teaser that comes with the invite further indicates shows metal body design, a square shaped fingerprint scanner, and a LED flash placed below the camera lens.

BlackBerry Mercury to sport Google Pixel-like rear camera, launching on February 25

However, the smartphone was already launched last year and was priced quite affordably. Meanwhile, the smartphone came with decent configurations but the main highlight of the smartphone has been its huge battery.

As for the specifications, the ZTE Blade A610 Plus features a 5.5-inch 1080p display with 2.5D curved glass on top and is powered by a MediaTek MT6750T octa-core SoC paired with 2GB of RAM. The device comes with 16GB of storage and it can be expanded using a microSD card.

Moto G5 now receives FCC certification

The cameras include a 13-megapixel rear shooter with 1080p video recording capabilities and an 8-megapixel selfie camera. Connectivity options include 4G VoLTE support, and the smartphone runs on Android Marshmallow out-of-the-box.

The ZTE Blade A610 Plus is expected to launch for less than Rs 15,000.

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Poland, Lithuania won't host new secret CIA rendition prisons

Iran Press TV

Fri Jan 27, 2017 12:11AM

Poland and Lithuania have announced that they would not allow the United States to locate new secret detention facilities on their soil in case President Donald Trump decides to reinstate a deal, under which the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) clandestinely detains prisoners as part of the so-called war on terror.

"There is no proposal for that and there is no room (for talks)," Polish Prime Minister Beata Szydlo told journalists in Warsaw on Thursday, adding that her government would not agree to such "black sites" at all.

Lithuanian Foreign Minister Linas Linkevicius also told Reuters that Vilnius was prepared to cooperate with Washington on all strategic issues but noted that human rights needed to be safeguarded.

"Torturing of people is not possible according to international law, code of conduct - not just legally but morally," he said.

"I do not believe that any civilized state should apply these methods. It's not just my personal position, it's the position of my state," Linkevicius pointed out.

Lithuania currently faces two lawsuits at the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in Strasbourg, France, over assertions that detainees were being held at one of the secret CIA jails in the Baltic country.

In 2009, a Lithuanian parliamentary inquiry identified two locations that purportedly had been used as CIA "black sites," including an old riding school. However, a probe into the cases was dropped in 2011 over what was described as lack of evidence.

Polish authorities have been investigating such claims since 2008. The Eastern European country is believed to have struck a secret agreement with the United States, allowing the CIA to take control of an intelligence training academy and use it to secretly detain alleged terror suspects.

Human rights activists maintain that a number of other Baltic countries, such as Bulgaria and the Czech Republic, are hosting secret CIA jails.

The ECHR began examining in December 2013 allegations that two Guantanamo detainees were tortured at a secret CIA rendition prison in Poland.

Human rights lawyer Amrit Singh stated in June last year that Romania had received "millions of dollars" from the CIA to allow the agency to torture terrorism suspects in secret prisons on its soil.

She noted that the prisons were operating in Romania from 2003-2005 with the government's "acquiescence and connivance."

A 2014 report released by the US Senate Intelligence Committee detailed the torture tactics used by the CIA, including the extensive use of waterboarding.

The brutal practice, which mimics the sensation of drowning, was first allowed during George W. Bush's administration for terror suspects.

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B-52 undergoes HERO testing at Edwards AFB

By Kenji Thuloweit, 412th Test Wing Public Affairs / Published January 27, 2017

EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. (AFNS) -- A B-52 Stratofortress from the 96th Bomb Squadron at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, is undergoing Hazards of Electromagnetic Radiation to Ordnance testing in the Benefield Anechoic Facility (BAF) here.

The test was requested by the B-52 Program Office at Tinker AFB, Oklahoma, to comply with a recent mandate from the Air Force Safety Office according to members of the 772nd Test Squadron who oversee BAF operations. The mandate states all Air Force weapons platforms will conduct Electromagnetic Environmental Effects evaluations. This test with the B-52 concentrated on the HERO element.

Ordnance and other devices that contain electroexplosive devices must function in their operational electromagnetic environment without inadvertently activating. To prevent the susceptibility of ordnance to radiated or conducted electromagnetic energy, HERO limits are imposed. HERO tests are conducted to classify the ordnance's susceptibility to electromagnetic radiation as HERO Safe, HERO Susceptible, or HERO Unsafe.

"The advantage of using the BAF chamber allows for more sensitive measurements with low background noise levels, as compared to testing on the flightline where there are numerous interfering radio frequency sources," said Hannah Dahlgren, the 772nd TS project lead engineer. Since no signals escape the chamber, the customer does not have to deal with regulatory clearances to radiate from the aircraft, which typically results in transmitting late at night only to avoid interfering with flightline and commercial operations."

The BAF at Edwards AFB is the largest anechoic chamber in the world and can fit any airplane inside. It provides a "free space" so electronic warfare tests can be conducted without radio frequency interference from the outside world. The chamber is filled with radiation-absorbing material, or RAM, designed to stop reflections of electromagnetic waves. The size of the RAM, which is painted dark blue or black, varies depending on the particular frequency and test procedure being conducted. Aircraft systems can be tested and verified that they work properly in lieu of an actual flight test.

Dahlgren said the physical placement of the B-52 in the chamber was accomplished in four days. Once the jet was backed into the chamber, the bomber and the jack stands were placed on the turntable and rotated 180 degrees.

"There were no challenges relating to the size of the B-52. However, it was the first time the B-52 was jacked up within the BAF. This presented some logistics coordination challenges and analyses," Dahlgren said.

A maintenance team from Minot AFB, North Dakota, jacked the aircraft up and the landing gear was retracted to simulate in-flight conditions. Members of the 772nd TS placed the radiation-absorbing material around the aircraft along with pallets of ferrite tiles to absorb the various emitting frequencies from the aircraft.

Real ordnance is not needed during the testing because the BAF's equipment can simulate real-life radio frequency and electromagnetic conditions; sensors can collect data from the areas where the B-52 would carry weapons.

"Testing in the BAF allows the B-52 Program Office to collect a complete set of data at a higher fidelity and in shorter time in a secure, controlled environment than it would have been possible anywhere else. Being indoors also proved beneficial during the recent [inclement] weather that we have had at Edwards," Dahlgren said.

Due to local test scheduling, Air Force Global Strike Command provided the B-52 in place of an Edwards' bomber. An offensive and defensive weapons aircrew member is also on loan to operate the on-board systems. Minot AFB, provided a maintenance team to support the test. Local manpower and logistical support is being provided by 912th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron and electronic warfare personnel from Eglin AFB, Florida, are also involved.

"We also had contractor engineering support provided by Boeing and the Harris Corporations. This test would not have been possible without the outstanding professional collaboration and support from all members of the team," Dahlgren said.

Testing is scheduled to be completed Jan. 30.

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Army, Marine leaders bring multi-domain concept closer to reality

By Sean Kimmons January 27, 2017

TWICKENHAM, England (Army News Service) -- The Army's new multi-domain battle concept gained momentum last week when senior leaders joined Marine Corps leadership to produce a white paper and establish a joint task force to advance new ideas that could dramatically change how Soldiers fight.

"At the very beginning, we're trying to make this very much a joint concept," said Gen. David Perkins, head of the Army Training and Doctrine Command, which is developing the concept.

Together, Army Chief of Staff Gen. Mark Milley and Marine Gen. Robert Neller signed the white paper providing an overview of the concept, which is to be reviewed by Marine Gen. Joseph Dunford Jr., chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Back in October, the Army officially announced the multi-domain concept, which is meant to broaden how the service fights on land --- sometimes with the assistance of air assets -- and allow for the incorporation of capabilities in the maritime and cyber domains.

According to the concept, Soldiers one day may fire land-based missiles to sink ships or use cyber and electromagnetic tactics to help units maneuver inside enemy territory. The Army has already planned multi-domain exercises to test these and other warfighting ideas, starting with exercises in the Pacific theater this spring, according to Perkins.

"A concept is an idea, and now we have to operationalize it and get feedback from the folks that [will] actually use it," Perkins said Wednesday, following his keynote speech at the International Armored Vehicles conference.

U.S. Army Pacific is working closely with the joint Pacific Command to finalize these exercises, Perkins said. TRADOC personnel are assisting with their design and will work with the exercise participants to determine new ways of fighting in the multiple domains.

Soldiers in Europe are expected to conduct similar exercises next year, the general said.

"Let's take what we have now and use it better," he said. "Where are our shortcomings? Can we highlight them through exercises and help inform our requirements for the future?"

Besides designing large training exercises, he said, TRADOC also is working to encourage units to use the concept in their day-to-day activities and training, so the command can get continuous feedback rather than just one chunk of it after an exercise.

It's still too early to know when the multi-domain concept will be completed. As Perkins has noted in the past, the Army's air/land concept took eight years to be implemented after being introduced in 1973. While he expects faster progress on multi-domain, he cautioned that getting all of the armed services on board will be a lengthy process.

Bureaucracy, not the mindset of individuals, may pose the biggest challenge to the concept's rollout, he said. As Congress typically appropriates money for tangible items, like equipment and vehicles, a change in thinking may be needed to secure funding for less tangible future capabilities.

"We're trying to take those resources and spread them out to capabilities, and the system is not set up to deliver resources like that," he said. "It delivers resources for things, not capabilities. How do you start changing the bureaucracy and processes to align with producing what we actually need?"

But a portion of future funding will likely be needed to upgrade combat vehicles so the Army can maintain its edge in full-spectrum warfare.

"I think what you're going to have is no more one-trick ponies," the general said. "You can't just have a vehicle that does this, and that's all it does."

Perkins said he would prefer to have "optionally manned" vehicles that can be driven with or without a human crew, depending on the situation. For example, he noted, a Soldier could engage an enemy while an autonomous vehicle provides cover fire.

"I think what you're absolutely going to find are combat vehicles that have multiple purposes and can operate in multiple modes," he said.

Perkins acknowledged that much more work remains ahead to figure out how the Army can make use of the emerging domain of cyber in combat.

"Cyber has become a good forcing function for us," he said. "It's new and people know it's new so they don't necessarily have a preconceived notion on how to do it."

Soldiers must think more holistically about how all of the domains intersect, Perkins said. During an exercise, for example, he once maneuvered an infantry company to fix a cyber issue emanating from a building.

"That was a multi-domain battle solution," he said. "It wasn't a bunch of computer scientists busting down the door and taking care of this problem; it was a bunch of infantrymen."

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1st Battalion, 66th Armor Regiment tanks begin arriving in Grafenwoehr

By Mr. Andreas Kreuzer (Grafenwoehr)January 27, 2017

GRAFENWOEHR, Germany -- The first 19 heavy tanks from 1st Battalion, 66th Armor Regiment arrived Jan. 27 at U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria, Tower Barracks, Grafenwoehr.

The 1-66 Regiment is part of the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, known as the Iron Brigade, out of Fort Carson, Colorado.

The 3ABCT is the current regionally aligned heavy U.S. brigade for U.S. Army Europe. The brigade began arriving in Europe January 2017 to support U.S. Army Europe and participate in Operation Atlantic Resolve.

The brigade initially assembled in Poland to distribute units across central and Eastern Europe.

The remaining 1st Battalion, 66th Armor Regiment will move to Grafenwoehr Training Area to participate in Exercise Combined Resolve VIII, while the 1st Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment exercises in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania; the 1st Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment in Romania and Bulgaria; and the 4th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment in Poland and Hungary.

The deployment is part of the U.S. mission Operation Atlantic Resolve, which is aimed at ensuring security and stability within the NATO alliance.

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Signal Soldiers from two countries build partnership for stronger Europe

By 509th Signal Battalion January 27, 2017

VICENZA, Italy -- U.S. Soldiers from 509th Signal Battalion are working hard to create lasting partnerships with Italian Soldiers from 184th Italian Signal Regiment, headquartered in Treviso. Both units perform similar functions for their armies, and the natural bond between Signal Soldiers has blossomed quickly into a true cross-cultural friendship.

The 509th Signal Battalion here delivers communications support to U.S. forces across Italy, the Balkans, the Black Sea region and Africa, while the 184th Italian Signal Regiment provides communications support and maintenance to Italian units in Northern Italy.

The partnership began one year ago, when the Italian Army unit invited leaders of the 509th to visit their Army base in Treviso. The 509th's battalion commander, Lt. Col. Brent Skinner, saw the event as an opportunity to build a partnership between the two NATO allies and quickly accepted. The Key Leader Engagement visit included official greetings, a mission briefing, a tour of the Italian unit's facilities, and a meal at the Italian dining facility.

In return, 509th Sig. Bn. invited members of the Italian unit to visit the Vicenza installation. This was the first time the 184th Signal Regiment had ever visited U.S. Soldiers on a base in Italy, and they were impressed with the facilities provided to American Soldiers.

"It is evident by the impressive facilities located on Caserma Del Din and Caserma Ederle that the American Army takes exceptional care of their Soldiers and families living abroad  we thank the 509th unit for inviting us into their home," said Lt. Col. Daniele Versaci, battalion commander, 184th Sig. Bn.

Sgt. Maj. Albano Battistella, Italian Liaison Officer to U.S. Army Garrison Italy, helped facilitate the new partnership between the two units. Battistella has been critical in helping bridge the cultural gap between the two units, according to 509th leadership.

"The 509th has really made it a priority to seek out new partnerships with our Italian Army units, and this means a lot to us -- we learn from one another and help each other," Battistella said.

"Partnerships such as this are key to America's ability to operate in a complex environment," said Maj. Brian Stieritz, 509th Signal Battalion executive officer. "They strengthen our military alliance and are crucial to building a Stronger Europe."

The friendship between members of the two units continues to grow. 509th receives invitations to Italian events and ceremonies across Northern Italy. One event was a WWII military ceremony in the Northern Italian town of Fregona, where U.S. Soldiers participated in an Italian Soldier's prayer and memorial ceremony, listened to a speech by the Mayor of Fregona, and visited a static display of historical and modern Italian communication systems by the 184th.

Most recently, the 509th attended the Italian Change of Command ceremony for 184th Italian Sig. Rgt., as Col. Giancarlo Marolda relinquished command to Col. Vicenzo De Manna. The 509th Signal Battalion and 184th Signal Regiment continue their partnerships through different training events, site visits and interoperability opportunities.

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Army showcases stealthy hydrogen fuel-cell demonstrator vehicle

By David Vergun January 27, 2017

WASHINGTON (Army News Service) -- In a tactical situation, the last thing a Soldier wants to do give away his position to the enemy.

The ZH2 hydrogen fuel-cell electric vehicle promises to provide that important element of stealth, said Kevin Centeck. team lead, Non-Primary Power Systems, U.S. Army Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center at the 2017 Washington Auto Show here Thursday.

The ZH2 is basically a modified Chevy Colorado, fitted with a hydrogen fuel cell and electric drive, he said. It was put together fairly quickly, from May to September, and will be tested by Soldiers in field conditions later this year.

Charley Freese, executive director of General Motor's Global Fuel Cell Activities, explained the ZH2 is stealthy because its drive system does not produce smoke, noise, odor or thermal signature. GM developed the vehicle and the associated technologies.

The vehicle provides a number of other advantages for Soldiers:

-- The ZH2 produces high torque and comes equipped with 37-inch tires that enable it to negotiate rough and steep terrain.

-- The hydrogen fuel cell can produce two gallons per hour of potable water.

-- When the vehicle isn't moving, it can generate 25 kilowatts of continuous power or 50 kW of peak power. There are 120- and 240-volt outlets located in the trunk.

-- The vehicle is equipped with a winch on the front bumper.

Dr. Paul D. Rogers, director of TARDEC, said the Army got a good deal in testing this vehicle, leveraging some $2.2 billion in GM research money spent in fuel-cell research over the last several decades. The Army is always eager to leverage innovation in new technology, he added.

While GM developed the technology and produced the demonstrator, the Army's role will be to test and evaluate the vehicle in real-world field conditions over the next near.

HOW IT WORKS

Electricity drives the vehicle, Centeck said. But the electricity doesn't come from storage batteries like those found in electric cars today. Instead, the electricity is generated from highly compressed hydrogen that is stored in the vehicle by an electrochemical reaction.

As one of the two elements that make water (the other being oxygen), there's plenty of hydrogen in the world. But hydrogen isn't exactly free, Centeck pointed out. It takes a lot of electricity to separate the strong bond between hydrogen and oxygen.

That electricity could come from the grid or it could come from renewables like wind or solar, Centeck said.

Existing fuels like gasoline, propane, and natural gas can also be used to extract hydrogen, he said. The Army and GM are comparing the costs and benefits for each approach and haven't yet settled on which approach to use.

Christopher Colquitt, GM's project manager for the ZH2, said that the cost of producing hydrogen isn't the only complicating factor; another is the lack of hydrogen fueling stations.

Most gas stations aren't equipped with hydrogen pumps, Colquitt pointed out, but California and some other places in the world are in the process of building those fueling stations. For field testing purposes, the Army plans to store the hydrogen fuel in an ISO container.

Another cost involves the hydrogen fuel-cell propulsion system itself. Fuel-cell stacks under the hood convert hydrogen and air into useable electricity. They are composed of stacks of plates and membranes coated with platinum.

In the ZH2 demonstrator, there are about 80 grams of platinum, costing thousands of dollars, he said. But within the last few months, GM developers have managed to whittle that amount of platinum down to just 10 grams needed to produce a working vehicle, he said.

The modern-day gas and diesel combustion engine took a century to refine. Now, GM is attempting to do that similar refining with hydrogen fuel cells in just a matter of months, he said. It's a huge undertaking.

By refining the design, Colquitt explained, he means lowering cost and providing durability, reliability and high performance. Refining doesn't just mean using less platinum, he explained. A lot of other science went into the project, including the design of advanced pumps, sensors, compressors that work with the fuel-cell technology.

Colquitt said the ZH2's performance is impressive for such a rapidly-produced vehicle. For instance, the fuel cell produces 80 to 90 kilowatts of power and, when a buffer battery is added, nearly 130 kilowatts. The vehicle also instantly produces 236 foot-pounds of torque through the motor to the transfer case.

The range on one fill-up is about 150 miles, since this is a demonstrator, he said. If GM were actually fielding these vehicles, the range would be much greater.

NOT READY FOR CONSUMERS

Colquitt said hydrogen fuel cell technology hasn't yet yielded vehicles for consumers, but GM is working on doing just that in the near future, depending on a number of factors, mainly the availability of fueling stations.

The Army is no stranger to the technology, he said. GM's Equinox vehicles, powered by hydrogen fuel cells, are being used on several installations. The difference is that the ZH2 is the first hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle to go tactical, he said.

The value of having the Army test the vehicle is that it will be driven off-road aggressively by Soldiers, who will provide their unvarnished feedback, Colquitt said. Besides collecting subjective feedback from the Soldiers, he said, the vehicle contains data loggers that will yield objective data as well.

Testers will put the vehicle through its paces this year at Fort Bragg, North Carolina; Fort Carson, Colorado; Fort Benning, Georgia; Quantico Marine Base, North Carolina; and, GM's own Proving Grounds in Michigan.

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M-ATV: Protecting the warfighter

US Marine Corps News

By Keith Hayes | January 27, 2017

The newest version of Mine Resistant Ambush Protected All-Terrain Vehicle is currently being upgraded, refurbished and up-armored for both the Marine Corps and Air Force at Production Plant Barstow, Marine Depot Maintenance Command, on the Yermo Annex of Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, California.

It has been described by artisans working on the project as "a beast," "a gnarly truck," and "a Humvee on steroids."

Kenny Phillips, a Barstow native, is the production superintendent for the M-ATV line at the production plant.

"(The M-ATV) is really the replacement for the Humvee (High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle) because the Humvee is thin layer sheet metal and didn't do enough to protect the Marines," Phillips explained.

"It is a Fast Tactical Assault Vehicle to get men in for certain missions and is the preferred means of troop transport," he continued.

Phillips said the section of the M-ATV containing the driver and occupants is heavily protected by armor.

"It's an armored capsule and can take a powerful (improvised explosive device) hit and keep Marines alive," he said.

"Currently we're working on a split line between Air Force and Marine Corps M-ATVs at a rate of about 16 to 20 a month," Phillips said. "It takes us about three to four weeks for each vehicle and the total repair cycle time for all the vehicles is 120 days."

He noted the repair cost of each vehicle is about $385,000. The website for the manufacturer of the M-ATV, the Oshkosh Corporation, lists the cost of a brand new M-ATV, depending on the model, at around $400,000 to $1 million.

Kenneth Merica, a native of Victorville, California, has been working at PPB as an industrial engineer technician for 19 years. He said the M-ATV is an extremely well-engineered piece of lifesaving equipment.

"These evolved because of the desert war. These came out in 2009 from Oshkosh," explained Merica. "You're looking at a Humvee on steroids. You can blow this apart and the occupants would all be alive."

He explained that he and his team have to get the work the PPB is doing on the M-ATVs right the first time around.

"  because these go back to the Air Force and Marine customer so I make sure it's able to run and shoot as they're supposed to," Merica said. "They need to flip a switch and this equipment is supposed to do what it needs to do."

Phillips said the biggest difference between the Marine Corps model and the Air Force version of the M-ATV is the turret on top of the vehicle.

"The machine gun in the turret is operated directly by a Marine from on top," he explained. "The Air Force has a CROW type turret. That stands for Crew Remote Operated Weapon system where the machine gun on top can be operated from inside the cab of the M-ATV."

Daniel Contreras, a native of Barstow, and a former Marine, has worked at PPB for 11 years as a heavy mobile equipment mechanic.

He pointed out the heavy metal armor has three layers. The original plating which is covered by a much heavier and wider second layer of steel, which is then overlaid with dense foam.

"(The foam) is a crumple zone so it absorbs a lot of the impact versus a solid plate of steel, which gives us three layers of protection," Contreras said.

He said the mountainous terrain in Afghanistan makes it unsuitable for not only the wide M1 Abrams tanks but the previous generation of MRAP vehicles, as well.

"(The other variants of the MRAP) were rolling off the sides of mountain roads and in to creeks," Contreras said.

Dustin Wiley, originally from Riverside, Calif., and former member of the Army National Guard, has been working at the plant and on the M-ATV line for six months.

"I love working on it," Wiley said. "I was actually in the military myself and I've driven these things myself and they do save a lot of lives. My military occupational specialty was a wheeled mechanic and I did work on these in the field."

Contreras summed up what is a common feeling by the artisans working on the lifesaving M-ATV line.

"I feel a sense of accomplishment working here," he said. "Being a Marine myself, and working at a Marine base, I love this job. It's a way for me to continue giving back to the Marine Corps even after being out. I can still come here and still do my job and still help them do their job more safely day to day by doing what I do here. Where else am I going to go to be able to build this equipment or look at this kind of stuff and do these kinds of things and still help people survive and come back home to their families? Nowhere else can you do that but here."

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Continuing Promise 2017 Departs for Guatemala

Navy News Service

Story Number: NNS170127-04

Release Date: 1/27/2017 9:22:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brittney Cannady, Continuing Promise Public Affairs

MAYPORT, Fla. (NNS) -- The humanitarian mission Continuing Promise 2017 (CP-17) departed Naval Station Mayport, Florida, Jan. 26, for its stop in Puerto Barrios, Guatemala.

A team of 169 Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps service members will spend roughly two weeks in the city located on the nation's Atlantic coast. While there, they will provide veterinary and medical services to local communities which include preventative treatments, dental care, optometry screenings, and women's health services.

"Our visit gives us the chance to build on the previous missions' successes, while working with our partners to leave a positive impact in local communities," said Capt. Errin Armstrong,

CP-17's commander, who also participated in Continuing Promise 2015's visit to Guatemala.

"The relationships created during operations like Continuing Promise builds trust and cooperation within the region," added Armstrong, who also serves as Commander, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 40. "This stop will also help ensure we are prepared to provide relief as a team when a disaster strikes."

The team's departure aboard Military Sealift Command's expeditionary fast transport vessel USNS Spearhead (T-EPF 1) capped off nearly a week of training in Mayport. Service members were taught local customs and courtesies, and got a little dirty practicing the setup of the living and support facilities which will make up their temporary camp during mission stops.

CP-17 is scheduled to run from January to April and will visit Guatemala, Honduras, and Colombia.

CP-17 is a U.S. Southern Command-sponsored and U.S. Naval Forces Southern/U.S. 4th Fleet-conducted deployment to conduct civil-military operations including humanitarian assistance, training engagements and medical, dental, and veterinary support in an effort to show U.S. support and commitment to Central and South America.

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WFP says people in Boko Haram heartland at risk of starvation

Iran Press TV

Fri Jan 27, 2017 6:26PM

The United Nations World Food Programme has sounded the alarm for millions of people who are at risk of dying from starvation in the militant-infested northeastern region of Nigeria.

The Boko Haram Takfiri terrorists are obstructing efforts to deliver food to the crisis-hit region, the WFP warned on Friday.

Ertharin Cousin, the WFP executive director, said there were areas unreachable to the UN agency.

"The challenge is that there are areas in Borno state, in particular, that are still inaccessible, and we have no idea of the food security situation," she said, adding that an estimated 4.4 million people needed food assistance in the northeast.

Even in parts of the northeast held and defended by the army, Boko Haram attacks were jeopardizing aid programs, Cousin said.

Ending the insurgency will require a political as well as a military solution, said Cousin, adding, "Until we resolve those issues the humanitarian situation will not improve to a level that allows us to reach all of those in need."

The government has told aid agencies it expects the conflict to end in six months, she said.

"I am imploring the international community to continue to provide us with the support that is necessary," said Cousin.

The WFP is the world's largest humanitarian agency fighting hunger worldwide, delivering food assistance in emergencies and working with communities to improve nutrition and build resilience.

Boko Haram terrorists have killed more than 20,000 people and forced more than 2.7 million others to flee since 2009.

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US defense secretary to Europe: US committed to NATO

Iran Press TV

Fri Jan 27, 2017 6:2PM

US Defense Secretary James Mattis has told his German and French counterparts that Washington under President Donald Trump will remain committed to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) alliance, according to the Pentagon.

In a statement on Friday, Pentagon spokesman Navy Captain Jeff Davis said that Mattis had spoken on the phone with German Defense Minister Ursula von der Leyen and "assured the minister of the United States' enduring commitment to the NATO alliance."

The spokesman said that Mattis had also admired Berlin's role in the fight against the Daesh (ISIL) terrorist group and pledged further cooperation with his European counterpart in the future.

"He thanked Minister von der Leyen for her country's leadership in NATO activities on the Eastern Flank and in Afghanistan, and acknowledged the role that Germany plays in fighting terrorism, specifically in the counter-ISIL coalition," Davis said.

"He also cited the strategic importance of Germany as the host to 35,000 US personnel, the largest US force presence in Europe," he noted.

In a different call with French Defense Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian, the Pentagon chief stressed the importance of NATO, discussing "the long-time allies' security cooperation, which is stronger than ever as both countries engage side-by-side in the fight against terrorism."

Mattis also spoke by phone with Israeli Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman "to underscore his unwavering commitment to Israel's security," Davis said.

The remarks were made after Trump, earlier this month, caused alarm in NATO as he called the Western military alliance "obsolete", arguing that NATO is as an alliance through which the US is spending tremendous funds to protect other extremely rich countries and that many NATO member states were not paying their fair share for US protection.

During his presidential campaign, the billionaire businessman had also appeared to be conciliatory towards Russia, praising President Vladimir Putin.

The US accounts for nearly 70 percent of the NATO budget and has long urged its European allies to step up their contributions, particularly in the face of what Washington calls the "Russian aggression" in Ukraine.

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Yemen could face famine if no immediate action taken: UN officials

Iran Press TV

Fri Jan 27, 2017 3:22AM

United Nations officials have warned about the dire humanitarian situation in Yemen in the wake of the nearly two-year-old Saudi war in the impoverished Arab country, stating that Yemen could face famine this year.

"The conflict in Yemen is now the primary driver of the largest food security emergency in the world," UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Stephen O'Brien told the Security Council on Thursday.

"If there is no immediate action, famine is now a possible scenario for 2017," he pointed out.

O'Brien also expressed sorrow over the plight of Yemeni children, saying a child under the age of 10 is dying every 10 minutes of "preventable causes."

The top UN official further warned that grain silos will run out of storage within the next few months because foreign banks no longer conduct financial transactions with many of the country's commercial banks.

'Tragic consequences of Saudi airstrikes'

UN Special Envoy to Yemen Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed, for his part, told the Security Council that the "dangerous" upsurge in Saudi airstrikes and fighting between Houthi Ansarullah fighters and Saudi-sponsored militiamen loyal to resigned Yemeni president Abd Rabbuh Mansur Hadi are having "tragic consequences for the Yemeni people."

Ould Cheikh Ahmed also criticized Hadi for rejecting his peace proposals.

"Hadi continues to criticize the proposals without agreeing to discuss them and this will hinder and impede the path towards peace," the UN envoy told the Security Council.

The UN humanitarian coordinator for Yemen, Jamie McGoldrick, says the conflict has claimed the lives of 10,000 people and left 40,000 others wounded in the country.

McGoldrick told reporters in Sana'a earlier this month that the figure was based on lists of victims gathered by health facilities and the actual number might be higher.

The Saudi war on Yemen, which local sources say has killed at least 11,400 people, was launched in an unsuccessful attempt to reinstate the former government.

The Saudi war has also taken a heavy toll on the country's facilities and infrastructure, destroying many hospitals, schools and factories.

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Romanian Armed Forces Orders Fifth Batch of Piranha Armored Vehicles

Sputnik News

23:56 27.01.2017

General Dynamics European Land Systems won a contract to deliver more Piranha armored vehicles to the Romanian Armed Forces.

WASHINGTON (Sputnik)  General Dynamics European Land Systems won a contract to deliver more Piranha armored vehicles to the Romanian Armed Forces, the defense contractor said in a press release on Friday.

"General Dynamics European Land Systems has been awarded a contract to deliver a fifth batch of additional PIRANHA III 8x8 wheeled armored vehicles to the Romanian Armed Forces," the release stated. "The vehicle supply contract, signed on December 30, 2016, is part of the Romanian Army's plan to modernize its legacy wheeled armored vehicle fleet."

The release further stated that Piranha vehicles have served the Romanian Armored Forces since 2006 with proven capabilities in various missions, including in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The Piranha is one of the most successful 8x8 wheeled armored vehicles worldwide with over 11,000 systems fielded, the release added.

 Sputnik

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US Army Confirms 9mm Sig Sauer for Handgun System

Sputnik News

23:50 27.01.2017(updated 01:47 28.01.2017)

The US Army, scrapping the Beretta M9 in favor of the Sig Sauer pistol, has chosen the foreign-built 9mm handgun as it produces "better terminal effects" and will "cause more damage" to enemy targets.

The service had been seeking a replacement to deliver more firepower than the M9 9mm handgun. According to new procurement documents, the Army and other services are able to acquire XM1152 Full Metal Jacket rounds, XM1152 Special Purpose munitions, and training rounds for the P320 service pistol, which will be re-designated as the XM-17 service sidearm.

Sig Sauer scored a deal with the Pentagon worth $580 million, according to the military. The service plans to buy about 280,000 handguns and other branches may buy an additional 212,000, defense officials said.

The Germany-based company defeated Glock, FN America, and Beretta USA in competing for the contract. Incidentally, the deal breaks with two rules President Donald Trump stated during his inaugural address: "Buy American and hire American."

But at a price as low as $207 per gun, the deal evidently proved too good to pass up.

According to the Army, the P320 fits requirements for a lighter, more accurate and more modular handgun than the Beretta M9, which has been in service since 1985. The new XM-17, or simply M-17, is about five ounces lighter and a half-inch shorter than the Beretta. The Sig is touted for its adjustable grip and a removable fire control unit that can fit into varying sizes of the gun to fit different hand sizes. It is also more truly an ambidextrous gun with safety levels on both sides of the firearm.

Beretta, Glock, or another of Sig Sauer's competitors is expected to appeal the bidding decision with the Government Accountability Office, given the contract's size is north of half-a-billion dollars.

 Sputnik

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As Pentagon Orders Review of F-35 Costs, Norway Gears Up for New Fleet

Sputnik News

22:32 27.01.2017(updated 01:06 28.01.2017)

In an attempt to trim costs of the most expensive weapons program in history, US Defense Secretary James "Mad Dog" Mattis is looking at new ways to meet program requirements.

Mattis Takes Lead on Cost-Containment Effort

The review will "determine opportunities" to cut F-35 costs "significantly" while "meeting requirements." While many berate Trump for looking into upgrades of the F/A-18 Super Hornet as a comparable alternative to the fifth-generation F-35, Mattis said that the review will investigate to what extent the Boeing-made Super Hornet can provide certain capabilities at reduced levels of military expenditure. The review will look into potential F/A-18 upgrades as well.

Lockheed Martin and Boeing shares were both down Friday as of 1:30 p.m., Eastern Time.

One official from the General Services Administration, which deals with procurement, told Sputnik News that research and development expenses are always factored into the price of an aircraft. The $100-$135 million price tag generally refers to just the production cost of an F-35, and this is usually what gets reported across media outlets, including here on Sputnik. In 2015, lawmakers authorized approximately $55 billion for research, development, and testing, in addition to $1.1 trillion for operations and maintenance.

Lockheed Martin and Trump are "very close to a deal"

Sputnik has reported that despite Trump's claims to personally oversee "beautiful" cost-cutting measures, the price of the F-35 was already slated to drop in 2017. An executive from one of the anti-missile designers, private UK defense firm Chemring Group Plc, remarked that cost reductions were "a given, regardless of Trump," due to economies of scale.

Officials leaked that the Pentagon and Lockheed would reach an accord on the tenth order of F-35s by the end of January. In a recent earnings call, Lockheed CEO Marillyn Hewson said "President Trump recognizes the F-35 is a very large programthe largest in the Department of Defense," but promised shareholders and investors that lower F-35 costs would not contribute to "slashing our profit."

According to Hewson, the Joint Strike Fighter program is a "growth engine" for the defense mammoth. "We continue to see growing international demand for it," she said.

Norway Will Ditch Old F-16 Fighting Falcon Fleet For F-35 Arrival

Norwegian air squads will decommission a fleet of at least 50 aging F-16 Fighting Falcons to pave way for the arrival of new F-35 Joint Strike Fighters.

Norwegian pilots have been training on F-35s at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona since 2015. This year, the highly-anticipated fifth-generation F-35s will make their debut in Norwegian air space. The Ministry of Defense is hoping that the move to scrap the F-16 squadron will pay off financially and politically. The politics of selling the F-16s to another party may be too complex, and Oslo does not prefer to front expensive maintenance costs to keep the F-16s as a reserve fighting fleet.

The F-16 has been touted as the most combat-proven fourth generation fighter by its manufacturers, General Dynamics and Lockheed Martin. While officials cope with "out of control" costs of the F-35, which Trump hopes to lock-in for less than $100 million per aircraft, it is worth noting that, in the late 1990s, the price of an F-16 hovered between $14-$19 million.

Three F-35s will be delivered to Norway this year, prompting the air force to lay the F-16 fleet to rest, Ministry of Defense officials said. Some F-16s will remain in operation until 2021 as more of the 52 F-35As ordered by Oslo make their way across the Atlantic Ocean.

The Kingdom of Norway, instituted in 1905, has engaged in several armed conflicts since World War II. But Oslo has totaled just 10 casualties during these conflicts, all of which occurred during the War in Afghanistan, in which Oslo has supported US and NATO efforts against the Taliban. Oslo also contributed forces when NATO swooped into the Libyan Civil War.

 Sputnik

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Armenia Hopes for Military Cooperation With US Under Trump Administration

Sputnik News

14:26 27.01.2017

Armenian Defense Minister Vigen Sargsyan said that despite the change of the US administration, the US-Armenian cooperation in the military area will continue.

YEREVAN (Sputnik)  Yerevan hopes to continue military cooperation with the United States during the presidency of Donald Trump, Armenian Defense Minister Vigen Sargsyan said Friday.

"The Armenian side hopes that despite the change of the US administration, the US-Armenian cooperation in the military area will continue," Sargsyan said at a press conference.

The cooperation concerns different spheres, including medical military education, training, sergeants courses, Sargsyan noted, adding that the country formed its "peacekeeping potential" as a result of cooperation with the United States.

Armenia is currently engaged in the NATO peacekeeping missions in Kosovo and Afghanistan.

Sargsyan also stated that the agreement on supplying Russian weapons to Armenia is being implemented on schedule.

"All I can say is that part [of the purchased weapons] has already been transferred to the Armenian Armed forces. The rest is going on schedule, and we are consistent in receiving as soon as possible the weapons that will increase the efficiency of our army," Sargsyan said during a press conference.

The minister added that he could not elaborate on details due to the confidential nature of the information linked to supplies of weapons that had been purchased with the Russian $200-million loan.

The minister added that Yerevan would cooperate with Moscow to continue the program, underlining that the full reinforcement of the army requires active work with Russia and other partners, as well as cooperation within the framework of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO).

In 2015, Russia and Armenia signed an agreement on a $200-million credit line for 10 years financing the purchase of military products. As part of the program Armenia purchases Russian Smerch multiple rocket launcher systems, Igla-S man-portable anti-aircraft missile systems, RPG-26 anti-tank guided missile launchers, Tigr armored cars, communication and engineering equipment.

 Sputnik

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Argentina Sends Russia Commercial Offer to Buy 15 MiG-29s

Sputnik News

11:07 27.01.2017(updated 11:19 27.01.2017)

Deputy Director of the Russian Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation said that Russia is preparing a response to Argentina's commercial offer on the purchase of over 15 MiG-29 fighter jets.

LUKHOVITSY (Moscow Region) (Sputnik)  Russia is preparing a response to Argentina's commercial offer on the purchase of over 15 MiG-29 fighter jets, Deputy Director of the Russian Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation (FSMTC) Anatoly Punchuk said Friday.

"Argentina has sent a commercial offer for the purchase of more than 15 MiG-29s in Russia, we are preparing an appropriate response," Punchuk said at the unveiling of an advanced MiG-35 multirole fighter.

The Russian Mikoyan MiG-35 (Fulcrum-F) jet fighter is a further development of the MiG-29M/M2 and MiG-29K/KUB.

 Sputnik

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Trump at Pentagon, Looking for New Strategy Options to Counter IS

By Carla Babb January 27, 2017

President Donald Trump arrived at the Pentagon Friday, where talks with top military leaders were likely to include asking for options on how to defeat the Islamic State (IS) in ways that were previously considered "off the table" during the previous administration, defense officials told VOA.

In turn, top defense officials will be looking for clear priorities to direct the counter-IS fight.

For example, one defense official told VOA Friday the Obama administration had made dual priorities of keeping ally Turkey satisfied and defeating IS.

"When everything is a priority, nothing is a priority," the official told VOA. "Just tell us what is THE priority."

One counter-IS option that could be drafted for Trump is arming or otherwise enhancing the capabilities of a Syrian Kurdish group known as the YPG.

American support for the group is a sensitive proposal because NATO-ally Turkey considers the group a terrorist organization. However, Kurdish forces makes up the bulk of the force to retake Raqqa and have proven very effective against IS in Syria's north and east.

Other options to enhance the counter-IS fight could include providing U.S. Apache helicopter support in the battle for Raqqa or sending more U.S. troops to the region.

The military is likely to ask Trump for broader authorities to give commanders room to maneuver in the fight. A defense official said this change could allow delegation at a lower level in order to "alleviate the micro-approving that's been going on" and provide "speed and agility to tailor solutions to battlefield problems."

When pressed by VOA, the official said an example of "micro-approving" was when the military was authorized to have a forward mobility number of exactly 203 troops in Syria last year.

"Every single person had to be approved," the official said.

If the new administration makes authorizations more flexible for the commanders, "that would be a different equation for a warfighter, and probably easier," he added.

General Joseph Votel, the commander of U.S. Central Command, which oversees the counter-IS operation in Iraq and Syria, is not attending Friday's meeting. His absence supports officials' expectations that this meeting will be more of a request for strategic options that can be presented at a later date.

Trump's visit to the Pentagon will also include a ceremonial swearing-in for Secretary of Defense James Mattis, who told reporters Thursday he prefers to go by "Jim."

Speaking to reporters earlier Friday, Trump said that while he disagrees with the Mattis' thoughts on enhanced interrogation of American enemies, the defense secretary's opinion would "override" his own.

"He's an expert. He's highly respected," Trump said, "and so I'm going to rely on him."

Mattis has stated publicly that he does not believe in the use of torture, an interrogation method that Trump said he feels "does work."

A major focus of the Trump's meeting with Mattis and top military officers is to discuss the end strength and equipment needed to improve combat readiness.

The Pentagon announced Friday that Mattis has directed separate reviews of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program and the program on the president's new aircraft.

"This is a prudent step to incorporate additional information into the budget preparation process and to inform the secretary's recommendations to the president regarding critical military capabilities," Pentagon spokesman Navy Capt. Jeff Davis said.

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British PM May: Trump Confirmed '100 Percent' Support for NATO

By Cindy Saine January 27, 2017

In his first meeting with a foreign leader, U.S. President Donald Trump spoke of the two nations' "special relationship," and British Prime Minister Theresa May agreed, mentioning common economic interests and shared values, but pointedly saying the new president had pledged he is "100 percent" behind NATO.

Trump has raised concerns in European capitals with statements that he has made saying NATO is obsolete and that other members need to start paying their share for their own defense.

At a news conference following the leaders' meeting, Trump said Britain is especially close to his heart because his mother was from Scotland.

"Today the United States renews our deep bond with Britain  military, financial, cultural and political. We have one of the great bonds," said the president. "We pledge our lasting support to this most special relationship. Together America and the United Kingdom are a beacon for prosperity and the rule of law. That is why the United States respects the sovereignty of the British people and their right of self-determination. A free and independent Britain is a blessing to the world and our relationship has never been stronger."

Trump said he strongly supports Britain's "Brexit" vote to pull out of the European Union. "I think Brexit is going to be a wonderful thing for your country," he said.

He added that Britain would be able to reach "free trade deals without somebody watching you and what you are doing."

U.S. relationships

When reporters in the ornate White House East Room questioned the leaders, there were queries about Trump's controversial stands on Mexico and Russia.

When asked whether he would lift sanctions after a planned phone call Saturday with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Trump said it is very early to be talking about sanctions. Trump stressed he "looks to have a great relationship with all countries," mentioning that this includes China.

Answering the same question, May said Britain wants to see sanctions against Russia continued until there is full implementation of the Minsk Agreement  provisions to end the fighting between pro-Russian rebels and Ukraine.

NATO

May said one of the most important areas where the two countries are working together is the fight against the Islamic State group. She also surprised some by saying Trump told her he supports NATO, the trans-Atlantic security alliance.

"On defense and security cooperation, we are united in our recognition of NATO as the bulwark of our collective defense and today we've reaffirmed our unshakable commitment to this alliance. Mr. President, I think, you said  confirmed that you're 100 percent behind NATO," said May.

"But we're also discussing the importance of NATO continuing to ensure it is as equipped to fight terrorism and cyber warfare as it is to fight more conventional forms of war," she said. "And I've agreed to continue my efforts to encourage my fellow European leaders to deliver on their commitments, to spend 2 percent of their GDP on defense so that the burden is more fairly shared. It's only by investing properly in our defense that we can ensure we're properly equipped to face our shared challenges together."

Asked about his comments that torture works to fight terrorism, Trump said he does believe that, but he said he would defer to his incoming Secretary of Defense, retired General James Mattis.

Trade, U.N. funding

The British Embassy said May presented Trump with a Scottish artifact, a "Quaich," which is a cup symbolizing welcome and kinship. She also presented a gift for first lady Melania Trump, a "hamper" full of special produce, including marmalade and tarts.

Both Trump and May have taken steps to reform their international relations, particularly through trade. Britain's pending exit from the European Union and Trump's withdrawal from the 12-nation Trans-Pacific Partnership will necessitate negotiating new trade agreements throughout the world.

May's plan for the EU exit includes placing a priority on controlling immigration, although she has not yet announced any policy details.

Earlier, White House spokesman Sean Spicer said Trump has not yet decided whether he will cut funding to international organizations, like the United Nations, after media reports suggested the president was looking to reduce the role of the U.S. within those organizations.

On Thursday, May spoke to a gathering of U.S. Republican leaders in Philadelphia where she said the days of the U.S. and Britain intervening in other nations to remake them in their image are over.

May said it is in British and American interests to defend their values, but not go back to what she called the "failed policies of the past. But nor can we afford to stand idly by when the threat is real and when it is in our own interests to intervene. We must be strong, smart and hard-headed."

May also called for reform in such multinational institutions as the U.N. and NATO "to make them more relevant and purposeful."

She said their members have to stop leaning on the United States. "Sovereign countries cannot outsource their security and prosperity to America. And they should not undermine the alliances that keep us strong by failing to step up and play their part."

In Philadelphia on Thursday, May said a Trump presidency can make the U.S. "stronger, greater and more confident," which she said is good for the rest of the world. She underscored that British and American conservatives share the same principles.

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The Ukrainian businessman, MP Kostiantyn Zhevaho, had 110 affiliated companies as of September 2015, when the National Bank of Ukraine (NBU) withdrew his Bank Finance and Credit from the market, but his declaration for 2015 does not contain these companies, NBU Head Valeriya Gontareva has said.

"Open Zhevaho's declaration. He, poor, had nothing but watches. Where are assets? He had 110 related companies, when we were withdrawing the bank from the market. Where are they in his declaration? There's only Ferrexpo, because he is afraid of British law," Gontareva said in an interview with the New Time (Novoye Vremia) weekly.

She added today Zhevaho owes UAH 6 billion to the NBU, and there is his personal guarantee on part of the sum.

Among other former owners of the banks, withdrawn from the market, she named Viktor Polischuk (the owner of the Eldorado network and the ex-beneficiary of Bank Mykhailivsky) with the debts of more than UAH 23 billion, including the Gulliver trade center, Borys Kaufman (the ex-owner of substantial participation in Platinum Bank) and Oleh Bakhmatiuk (the owner of Ukrlandfarming and the former beneficiary of VAB Bank and Bank Financial Initiative).

According to Gontareva, in general the government has already paid UAH 80 billion to the depositors of banks withdrawn from the market.
Al-Shabab Captures Military Base in Somalia Before Withdrawing

By Harun Maruf January 27, 2017

The Mayor of the Somali town of Kulbiyow near the border with Kenya has been killed in a deadly dawn attack by al-Shabab militants, residents and military sources have confirmed.

Mohamed Tohyare Nuh was killed inside the Kenyan military base after al-Shabab militants stormed the base early Friday, a resident and a military officer told VOA's Somali service. Nuh was one of three civilians killed in the attack, two others were wounded, according to residents.

A Somali military official told VOA that two soldiers were killed in the attack and a third soldier was wounded.

Al-Shabab militants have now pulled out of the town after burning military vehicles they seized and removing military trucks from the base.

A resident told VOA that he could see military jets and helicopters flying over the town. Columns of Kenyan and Somali forces left Haluqa village, 18 kilometers from Kulbiyow and are now on their way to the scene, an officer said.

Militants withdraw after capturing base

Early Friday, al-Shabab fighters captured the military base run by Kenyan and Somali troops in Kulbiyow after a massive attack. The base is about a kilometer away from the town, residents said.

Residents there said the attack started when a truck filled with explosives detonated at the base, followed by heavy gunfire.

Two residents in the town said al-Shabab militants attacked the town and captured the base before withdrawing hours later.

A Somali military officer told VOA , "Small surveillance drones spotted the oncoming al-Shabab fighters." He said the troops fired mortars at the insurgents, but that failed to stop them and the militants later drove "two explosive-laden trucks into the base."

A small number of Somali forces and Kenyan troops fought to hold off the attack from al-Shabab, but the militants detonated more explosives and continued heavy gunfire.

Residents said the fighting lasted more than 90 minutes as the militants overpowered the Somali and Kenyan troops.

Al-Shabab militants have claimed killing 57 Kenya soldiers in the attack, but Kenya's defense ministry quickly dismissed the claim.

In the dawn attack, Al-Shabab tried to access the camp using a suicide attacker in a vehicle, the defense ministry said in a statement. "KDF soldiers repulsed the terrorists, killing scores," according to the ministry.

Residents said the militants launched the attack from the nearby town of Badhadhe.

Kulbiyow is a Somali town in Lower Jubba close to the border with Kenya.

Just two days ago, Kenyan troops at Kulbiyow attacked an al-Shabab base at Badhadhe before retreating back to Kulbiyow.

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Merkel, Hollande Call for EU Unity Amid New Worries

By Lisa Bryant January 27, 2017

The European Union's two most influential leaders called for unity in championing European values and the European project during a Berlin meeting overshadowed by concerns about the new Trump administration and rising populism at home.

"We need a clear, common commitment to the European Union, to what we have accomplished and to the values of our liberal, democratic democracies," German Chancellor Angela Merkel said in a brief statement to the press alongside French President Francois Hollande.

Coming a week before the EU's first summit of the year in Malta, the meeting aimed to set the tone for the 27-member bloc. Yet it was overshadowed by another key meeting across the Atlantic, as Prime Minister Teresa May of exiting EU member Britain talked with U.S. President Donald Trump.

In remarks, Trump has suggested a sharp break with the EU on issues ranging from maintaining sanctions on Russia and upholding the Iran nuclear agreement to climate change, free trade and NATO's viability.

Trump's support of Brexit, and recent predictions of the demise of the euro currency by Ted Malloch - reported to be the likely next U.S. ambassador to the EU - have not helped matters.

Describing the new U.S. administration Friday as posing "challenges," Hollande said it was important to speak to Trump "with a European point of view and promote our interests and values."

"They are very much concerned that the new President Trump will try to split the Europeans on some key policy issues," said Daniel Gros, director of the Brussels-based Center for European Policy Studies. "I think it's extremely important for Merkel to have a unified European response to anything the Americans might undertake - and that can only start with a Franco-German agreement."

Internal threats

The two leaders also warned of internal threats to Europe, with the rise of populist anti-EU parties across the region. Both their countries face key elections this year, with the upcoming presidential and legislative vote in France particularly closely watched.

President Hollande, who has taken a tough line against Syria and Moscow, is not running for re-election, judged too unpopular to win.

By contrast, two of the top candidates to replace him - conservative former prime minister Francois Fillon and far-right contender Marine Le Pen - want to end sanctions against Russia and work with Damascus in fighting the Islamic State group, positions that may align them closer to Washington if either becomes leader, than to Brussels.

Speaking after his own meeting with Merkel on Monday, Fillon said sanctions against Moscow were ineffective, and "we must find another way to talk."

For her part, Le Pen is a strong supporter of Trump, seeing his unexpected victory last November as a harbinger of her own. During a meeting with other far-right European parties in Germany last week, she called on European voters to "wake up" and follow the example of their British and American counterparts.

Still, analyst Gros believes that, on the whole, the U.S. president is proving a galvanizing force, bringing the EU - which is sharply divided over issues like immigration - closer in opposition.

"There is a sense of 'all united' in a European view of the world, which is different in its view than that of Trump," he said. "It's a long-term partnership based on common values."

Closer EU defense and security cooperation seems to be the first target, in the wake of new doubts over the U.S. commitment to NATO. The first lines were traced during an end-of-year summit last December and Merkel has been pushing since.

"The more Trump insists, the more he tries to divide the Europeans, the stronger will be the call for stronger military capacity," Gros said. "It's actually in the making. But it's nothing that you decide in a week or two. It will take years."

Still Friday's meeting between Trump and Britain's Theresa May - his first with a foreign leader since taking office - offers an unsettling counterpoint.

"It will be a strategic choice for May, whether to cozy up with Trump," Gros said. "She will have to weigh the U.K.'s long-term interests, since we never know if Trump will stick to a particular policy and how long he might last himself."

The upcoming Brexit negotiations will also give the EU some bargaining power, he believes, as Britain looks to access the bloc's single market after leaving.

"If she breaks ranks with Europe on some high policy issues," Gros said, "then the trade deal available to her will be a lot less favorable."

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Sunday Deadline Looms for Deal on New DRC Government

By William Clowes January 27, 2017

Political parties in the Democratic Republic of Congo signed a deal on New Years' Eve that eased the political crisis after deadly unrest over delayed elections. But now that agreement risks falling apart as the two sides wrangle over its implementation. Observers say they are running out of time if they are to have any hope of holding the polls this year.

The December 31 deal demands the polls be held by the end of this year and keeps President Joseph Kabila in office until then. In the accord, Kabila's political alliance agreed that he will not seek a third term, though some in Congo still fear the president means to change the constitution so he can do just that.

The agreement provides for a new government led by a prime minister from the largest opposition platform, the Rassemblement.

The deal's survival, however, is not assured and the Congolese Catholic Church, the deal's increasingly frustrated mediator, says the two sides have until Saturday to reach an agreement on the make-up of the new government and how to implement the rest of the deal.

Christophe Lutundula, a senior Rassemblement politician, told VOA they expect to make the deadline. He says what we have seen from the other side since the signing of the accord does not incite blissful optimism. But, he says, the Rassemblement remains vigiliant and committed to finding a solution.

Ruling alliance vs Rassemblement

For its part, the ruling alliance has denounced the Rassemblement for wanting to impose a prime minister upon the president. It argues that the opposition must present Kabila with five options.

Even if the two sides do agree on a new government this weekend, experts say organizing nationwide polls by the end of the year will be difficult. The Democratic Republic of Congo is a vast and poorly connected country, and public finances are particularly strained at the moment, largely due to the global dip in commodities prices since 2014.

Experts say the new government will need to muster rapid international support to fund the elections.

In December, the president of the electoral commission estimated that the full electoral package will cost $1.8 billion. In October, the Constitutional Court authorized the delay of the polls, which were scheduled for November, because the commission said it needs to redo the voter registry. That work has begun but it is a massive undertaking expected to take until at least the end of July.

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Paying for Trump's border wall not negotiable: Mexican FM

Iran Press TV

Fri Jan 27, 2017 3:6PM

Mexican Foreign Minister Luis Videgaray has described as "not negotiable" the idea that his country should pay for the border wall between the United States and Mexico despite expressing willingness to maintain good relations with the northern neighbor.

"There are things that are not negotiable, things that cannot and will not be negotiated. The fact that it is being said that Mexico should pay for the wall is something that is simply not negotiable," Videgaray said during a press conference at the Mexican embassy in Washington on Thursday.

"Just as we offer respect, we Mexicans must respect ourselves, our history and national symbols," he added.

The top Mexican diplomat made the comments after US President Donald Trump ordered the design and construction of a wall along the 2,000-mile US-Mexico border and later floated the idea of imposing a 20-percent import tax on Mexican goods to cover the cost of building the wall.

Denouncing the move, Videgaray said levying tax on Mexican imports, particularly household goods and groceries, would only harm Americans.

"Here in the United States avocados, washing machines, televisions, many things that North American families like to buy and that are expensive, would cost more," he said. "It would be the American consumer who would be paying."

The senior official also sought to pave the way for a meeting between the new US president and his Mexican counterpart, Enrique Pena Nieto, who had cancelled a planned trip to Washington after Trump said it would be better for the Mexican leader not to come if Mexico would not pay for the wall.

"We recognize that it is the beginning of a new relationship with President Trump and his government. We recognize that, as President Pena Nieto has said, we are ready to negotiate. We have clear priorities and objectives," Videgaray noted.

Trump, who assumed office last Friday, has repeatedly pledged to build a wall along the southern border to prevent more immigrants from entering the US illegally, and has promised to have Mexico cover the cost of the construction of his proposed wall.

While the new US president has estimated that erecting the wall would cost $8 billion, recent congressional legislation put the cost at $10 billion, but construction experts insist the actual cost could be more than double that amount.

Trump has also called illegal Mexican immigrants rapists and criminals, and has vowed to deport some 11 million undocumented immigrants living in the shadows in the United States.

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Morocco Dismantles Daesh-Linked Terrorist Cell, Thwarts Attack

Sputnik News

19:22 27.01.2017

A terrorist cell, linked to the Daesh, was dismantled in Morocco, according to Morocco's Interior Ministry.

MOSCOW (Sputnik)  Morocco's Central Bureau of Judicial Investigation (BCIJ) has dismantled in a security operation a terrorist cell, linked to the Islamic State (ISIL or Daesh) jihadist group, thwarting a planned attack in the country, Morocco's Interior Ministry said Friday.

"This security operation was conducted to monitor the location of the mastermind of this terrorist cell in El Jadida. The cell was planning to carry out a terrorist attack in Morocco at the behest of the commanders of IS in Syria, Iraq and Libya," the ministry's statement, cited by Morocco World News, read.

t added that the cell included seven people living in six different cities in Morocco.

During the operation, the BCIJ seized firearms, pistols, massive munitions, large knives as well as chemical materials used in production of explosives, according to the statement.

 Sputnik

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Four EU States Agree on Joint Train Passengers Database to Fight Terrorism

Sputnik News

18:49 27.01.2017(updated 18:50 27.01.2017)

Belgium, the Netherlands, France and the United Kingdom have reached an agreement on joint database on passengers traveling by international trains in an effort to counter possible terrorism threats, Belgian RTL radio reported on Friday.

BRUSSELS (Sputnik)  According to the broadcaster, the agreement was reached on the sidelines of an informal meeting of EU interior ministers in Malta on Thursday.

"Now there is an agreement that we have worked out together  to install the system in the international trains," Belgian Interior Minister Jan Jambon told the radio, when asked on the agreement.

The radio added that the states intend to create a working group together with the representatives of European high-speed train operators Eurostar and Thalys on drawing proposals for the database for passengers travelling between the four countries.

In November 2016, Belgian parliament's anti-terror commission adopted a bill that allows air, railway and maritime carriers to provide the authorities with the information about the passengers, which provoked criticism of the Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER).

 Sputnik

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China plans moon-sampling mission for November

Iran Press TV

Fri Jan 27, 2017 2:46PM

China plans to send a robot attached to a rocket to the moon to bring back samples of the lunar surface.

The rocket, named Chang'e 5, is scheduled to take off from Wenchang Space Launch Center in the southern province of Hainan at the end of November, according to China's state-run Xinhua news agency.

The mission will be fulfilled in three strategic steps and five stages. Orbiting, landing and returning are the three steps that will be carried out in the five stages.

In the first stage, a robot craft hitched atop China's Long March-5 booster will take off and land on the moon.

In stage two, a rover-lander will gather lunar samples into a container on the ascender, which will take off from the moon surface and dock on the orbiter near the returner, which will be circling around the moon, in stage three.

In stage four, the samples' container will be transferred from the ascender to the returner.

In the fifth and final stage, the returner will take off from the orbiter and return to earth.

The mission will be the first attempt to bring lunar material back to earth since the Soviet Union's Luna 24 spacecraft carried out a similar mission in 1976.

The former Soviet Union successfully carried out three robotic sample-return missions in the 1970s, bringing back notable amounts of lunar samples.

Before them, NASA's Apollo astronauts landed on the moon six times from 1969 to 1972. They brought more than hundreds of kilograms of lunar material with them back to earth.

Last year, China's chief engineer at the State Administration of Science, Technology and Industry for National Defense, Tian Yulong, said Beijing was in discussion with other countries "for human beings' landing on the moon in the future."

He said Beijing is hoping "to build bases and carry out scientific investigations on the moon."

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Russia Starts Work on Boosting BrahMos Missile's Range for India

Sputnik News

15:55 27.01.2017(updated 15:56 27.01.2017)

Russian-Indian BrahMos short-range ramjet supersonic cruise missiles, currently produced for India's armed forces, may gain an extended range variant by 2019, the missile's Russian manufacturer said Friday.

REUTOV (Sputnik)  In late 2016, Indian Minister of State for Defence Subhash Bhamre announced that India and Russia agreed to increase the range of BrahMos missiles by some 300 kilometers (185 miles), thus doubling its current range. Russian President Vladimir Putin also stated that the joint missile will be upgraded after agreements reached during a high-level bilateral summit in Goa last October.

"We are starting this work already, the first part will be research, and the second will be implementation. As usual, this will take two or three years The range will be increased significantly. Mayby not several times by it will be notable," NPO Mashinostroyenia Director General Alexander Leonov told reporters.

India joined the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) in 2016, thus paving the way for boosting the range of its missiles. Russia, a member since the 1990s, could not supply missiles with a range of over 300 kilometers and with a payload of over 500 kilograms (1,100 pounds) to India under conditions of the MTCR.

The BrahMos missiles, based on Russia's P-800 Oniks (Yakhont) cruise missile and produced jointly by NPO Mashinostroyenia and India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), can be launched from naval vehicles, including submarines, as well as aircraft and land-based launchers. The two-stage missile is armed with 200 and 300-kilogram warheads.

 Sputnik

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India Shows the Flag in Indian Ocean

Sputnik News

15:26 27.01.2017

The ongoing month-long exercise in the Indian Ocean is the most complex and is the first to be held after news broke about Chinese nuclear submarine visiting Pakistani ports.

New Delhi (Sputnik)  The Indian armed forces have launched a military hardware-intensive exercise in the Arabian Sea, not far from Pakistan's extended maritime domain.

The Navy did not conceal the objectives behind the show of military muscle on India's western seaboard: ``Tropex 17 assumes special significance in the backdrop of the current security scenario. The exercise is aimed at testing combat readiness of the combined fleets of the Indian Navy, and the assets of the Indian Air Force, Indian Army and the Indian Coast Guard,'' said a statement about the month-long exercise that began on January 24.

Tropex stands for Theatre Readiness Operational Exercise (TROPEX) with ships and aircraft drawn from Navy's Western and Eastern Commands. The last edition of the exercise was conducted two years back although the navy is billing the ``Tropex 17'' as an annual exercise.

The current edition will be the largest ever in scale and complexity. The military hardware includes major surface combatants and air assets of the Indian Navy including the aircraft carrier Vikramaditya, nuclear submarine Chakra, Landing Platform Dock (LPD) Jalashwa, the recently commissioned destroyer Chennai, the P-8I long range maritime reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare aircraft operating alongside Indian Air Force's SU-30 MKI, Jaguars, AWACS, IL-78 Flight Refuelling Aircraft and army infantry units.

''The exercise will be conducted in several phases, both in harbour and at sea, encompassing the various facets of war-fighting and combat operations. It will also strengthen inter-operability and joint operations in a complex environment,'' added the Navy statement.

 Sputnik

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Indian Navy Pitches for Three More Multirole Fighter Squadrons

Sputnik News

12:54 27.01.2017(updated 13:00 27.01.2017)

Global military aviation majors to square off as India sets stiff parameters for the selection of 57 combat jets that are able to operate from aircraft carriers.

New Delhi (Sputnik)  The Indian Navy has finally decided to rest speculation whether it will opt for a home-developed combat jet or import them for its aircraft carriers.

It has sought information from global manufacturers for 57 multi role carrier-borne fighters. "Multi role fighters are intended as day and night capable, all-weather multi-role deck based combat aircraft which can be used for air defense, air-to-surface operations, buddy refueling, reconnaissance and EW missions from Indian Naval aircraft carriers," reads document issued for global suppliers.

Apart from some basic guidelines for procurement, Indian Navy has sought answers on the configuration in 55 pages on a range of issues like electronic warfare capability, endurance and payload. Indian government is desirous of license production of the aircraft after acquiring Transfer of technology in the case.

The Indian Navy has asked global manufacturers questions like whether the twin- seat variant retains all operational attributes of the single seat variant (radar, air to air refueling)?

It also asked for the capability of long/ medium range Beyond Visual Range air to air missiles, short range anti-ship missiles, precision guided munitions and unguided munitions which will be integrated on the aircraft and likely to be offered to Indian Navy.

Indian Navy also wants to know from the global manufacturers whether the aircraft has a swing-role capability for the simultaneous carriage of strike weapons and air-to-air missiles.

"Does the aircraft have capability to operate from both STOBAR (Short Take-off But Arrested Recovery) and CATOBAR (Catapult Take-off But Arrested Recovery) aircraft carriers without any modification to the aircraft?" another question.

Selected aircraft will operate from indigenously developed Vikrant aircraft carrier which will be conventional ski jump based STOBAR layout. Configuration for second aircraft carrier has not yet been finalized.

Swedish Saab has claimed that its single engine Sea Gripen has capability to operate from both STOBAR/CATOBAR. Russian made MiG-29K also operates from STOBAR. Both these fighter will receive major competition from India's own LCA Navy MK2, as it may find favor from Indian government to promote Make in India component.

Only last month, Indian Navy chief Admiral Sunil Lanma had rung the alarm when he said the indigenous LCA Navy MK-1Tejas was too heavy for aircraft carriers and not fit in current form.

If the Indian Navy wants fighters for CATOBAR, Boeing's F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, Dassault's Rafale M and Lockheed Martin's F-35C will find place in this competition.

However, the winner of the competition will have to invest 30 per cent of commercial value under offset contracts. Request for information indicates that delivery for the aircraft is expected only after 2021; by the time India's LCA NAVY MK-2 may prove to be a tough competitor for offerings by foreign firms.

 Sputnik

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Ukraine has been passed ten ambulance cars, which were acquired through the financial support of the government of Canada, the Foreign Ministry of Ukraine has said.

According to the ministry's press service, the Diplomatic Academy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine held a ceremony on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between Canada and Ukraine, organized by the Canadian Embassy in Ukraine.

"Prior to the event Ukraine was officially handed over ten ambulance cars that were purchased and delivered to Kyiv with the financial assistance of the government of Canada and ordinary citizens," the report says.

Foreign Minister of Ukraine Pavlo Klimkin and Ambassador of Canada to Ukraine Roman Waschuk spoke in public during the event.

The officials expressed confidence Ukrainian-Canadian relations will continue their dynamic development, particularly stressing that the parties hope for the revival of bilateral trade after the entry into force of the recently signed free trade area agreement between Ukraine and Canada, which is now under consideration in the parliaments of both countries.
UK premier defends Iran nuclear deal

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Tehran, Jan 27, IRNA -- British Prime Minister Theresa May defended the Iranian nuclear deal that US President Donald Trump had denounced in Philadelphia on Friday.

May made the remarks in a meeting with senior American Republicans in Philadelphia.

She defended the nuclear deal with Iran, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), that Trump had denounced, although she said it should be 'very carefully and rigorously policed, AFP wrote.

The UK prime minister will on Friday become the first foreign leader to meet Trump following his inauguration last week, when they hold talks on post-Brexit trade at the White House.

9060**1771

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Iran, Russia sign roadmap on nuclear fuel production

Iran Press TV

Fri Jan 27, 2017 11:6AM

Iran and Russia have reached an agreement on a roadmap for joint cooperation in the area of nuclear fuel production, a senior nuclear official says.

Behrouz Kamalvandi, the spokesman for the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), told IRNA Friday that the agreement was signed during his recent visit to Russia.

The nuclear official further called the accord important "given that what we seek from [uranium] enrichment is to become able to generate fuel."

Iran managed to produce the 20-percent-enriched fuel it needed to run its research reactor in Arak itself, said Kamalvandi, adding, however, that generating the fuel required to run power plants is a "complicated process," a field in which Russia has good experience.

The official also reported singing of another bilateral agreement during his Russia visit featuring cooperation in the field of producing stable isotopes, which have applications in medical and industrial fields.

The deal, he said, is to be implemented at Iran's Fordow nuclear facility, making Iran the forth place in the world where such isotopes are produced alongside Russia itself, the US, and the European Energetics Corporation (Eurenco) in France.

The official said his trips also included discussion on the timing, in line with which Russia was to cooperate with Iran in building the Islamic Republic's second and third nuclear power plants after the one in the southern city of Bushehr.

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Iran to Become 4th Stable Isotope Producer Following Deals With Russia

Sputnik News

16:43 27.01.2017

Iran Atomic Energy Organization spokesman Behrouz Kamalvandi stated that a deal was reached between Moscow and Teharan, to convert Iran's Fordo uranium enrichment plant into a production facility for stable, non-radioactive, isotopes.

MOSCOW (Sputnik)  Iran will become the wold's fourth stable isotope producer as a result of recent cooperation deals with Russia, Iran Atomic Energy Organization spokesman Behrouz Kamalvandi told IRNA on Friday.

On January 19, a deal was reached between Moscow and Teharan, to convert Iran's Fordo uranium enrichment plant into a production facility for stable, non-radioactive, isotopes.

Kamalvandi noted that stable isotopes have industrial and medical applications and the material is currently only produced in Russia, the United States and Europe's Urenco Group, which operates uranium enrichment plants in Germany, the Netherlands, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

The official said a second deal, on a roadmap for producing fuel, was also signed during his trip to Russia, adding that it was significant, as Iran's ultimate goal for enrichment was fuel production.

He stressed that fuel production was a complex process, and one that Russia had a great deal of experience with. According to Kamalvandi, Russia is carrying out 40 percent of the world's enrichment and intends to carry out 60 percent by 2030.

The country's first nuclear power plant in Bushehr, a project overseen by Russia, is still operational, and a further two power plants are anticipated to be built in cooperation with Russia's nuclear energy corporation Rosatom.

The agreement between Russia and Iran on the Fordo plant is in compliance with the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action regarding Iran's nuclear program.

Iran's deal with Russia on the first stage of the Bushehr project, Bushehr 1, dates back to 1992. The first reactor was connected to the national electric grid in 2011 and reached full capacity the following year. Rosatom is preparing to build a second reactor, with works on a third one slated to start in 2026.

 Sputnik

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Iraqi government troops win back two villages north of Mosul

Iran Press TV

Fri Jan 27, 2017 2:16AM

Iraqi army soldiers have managed to regain control over two villages north of the strategic city of Mosul as government forces, backed by fighters from allied Popular Mobilization Units and Kurdish Peshmerga fighters, are involved in multi-pronged operations to expel Daesh terrorists from their last urban stronghold in the country.

Lieutenant Colonel Diya Lafta said troops from his Ninth Armored Division began advancing toward the villages on Thursday morning, and liberated them from the clutches of Daesh extremists "after a few hours."

Witnesses said government forces were mostly in control of the village of Shereikhan by afternoon, but skirmishes between Iraqi army troops and the militants continued in the surrounding villages.

The development came on the same day that Iraqi forces targeted Daesh fortifications across the Tigris River and in western Mosul as part of preparations for the next phase of the military campaign against the Takfiris.

"We are noticing gatherings of the enemy on the other side and vehicles and we try to deal with them with all the weapons we have. We are now absolutely ready to begin our assault on the western side and God willing victory will be ours," Major Mohamed Ali said.

The Iraqi army announced in a statement on Sunday that all districts of eastern Mosul had been cleared of Daesh militants, after retaking al-Milayeen neighborhood and al-Binaa al-Jahiz area. Government forces raised the national flag over buildings there.

In a statement on Tuesday, Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi lauded the "unmatched heroism of all security forces factions" and public support for the operation.

Daesh still maintains firm control over the western quarter of Mosul. The United Nations estimates that some 750,000 civilians are trapped in the area as Iraqi army soldiers and their allies are gearing up for the next phase of fighting against the militants.

Daesh drone drops explosives on residential building in Mosul

Meanwhile, three members of a family sustained injures when a drone belonging to the Daesh terror group dropped explosives on a house in the Bab al-Toub neighborhood of central Mosul.

A local source, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Mosul residents have been victims of Daesh drones over the past few weeks. The unmanned aerial vehicles drop explosives on residential buildings.

Hashd al-Sha'abi fighters repulse Daesh attack in Anbar

Additionally, fighters from the Popular Mobilization Units  commonly known by the Arabic word Hashd al-Sha'abi  foiled a Daesh assault on al-Rahaliyah area in the western province of Anbar, killing and wounding several extremists.

Iraqi army soldiers, supported by pro-government Hashd al-Sha'abi fighters and Kurdish Peshmerga forces, launched a joint operation on October 17 to retake Mosul from Daesh terrorists.

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Israel Confirms Test of Mid-Range Missile Interceptor

Sputnik News

00:04 28.01.2017(updated 01:47 28.01.2017)

On Wednesday Israel's Defense Ministry said that it successfully completed testing of the David's Sling missile-interceptor system, a weapons program co-developed with US support.

Slated for use by the Israeli Air Force, the system was originally tested in 2015 and was designed to neutralize projectiles with a range of 60-125 miles, such as those used by Hezbollah, a militant Shi'a group backed by Iran.

After testing, the Jewish News Services quoted US Missile Defense Agency director Vice Admiral Jim Syring saying, "This test campaign is a critical step in ensuring Israel has the capability to defend itself from a very real and growing threat," adding that Washington remains "strongly committed to supporting Israel's development of a missile defense system."

US arms-maker Raytheon and Israel's state-owned Rafael Advanced Defense Systems is developing the not-yet-operational system, to fill a gap between the US-funded Arrow ballistic-missile interceptor and the Iron Dome short-range rocket interceptor program, both of which are currently in service.

Developed by Boeing and state-owned Israel Aerospace Industries, the Iron Dome interceptor network was used with much success against Hamas in the 2014 Gaza War.

Moshe Patel of Israel's Missile Defense Organization said that Wednesday's testing included intercepting an air-launched test missile, and noted that "The tests were intended to simulate anticipated future threats and in the coming years our system will deliver to the Israeli air force more capabilities and more confidence."

According to the Jerusalem Post, the testing occurred under a media blackout, with the Defense Ministry stating, "The success of the test is part of the development on the future threat deterrence systemDuring the series of tests, after incoming missile detection, the MMR (multi-missile radar) located the targets and transferred the data to the central firing program, which calculated interception protocols."

 Sputnik

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Pyongyang's Nuclear, Missile Provocations Pose Threat to Seoul  S.Korea DM

Sputnik News

13:31 27.01.2017

South Korean Defense Minister Han Min-koo stated that Pyongyang's missile threat against the Seoul metropolitan area where key facilities and population are concentrated is directly linked to the South Korea's security.

MOSCOW (Sputnik)  North Korea's nuclear and missile provocations pose a "direct and realistic" threat to South Korea, South Korean Defense Minister Han Min-koo said Friday.

"Pyongyang's missile threat against the Seoul metropolitan area where key facilities and population are concentrated is directly linked to the nation's security," Han said during a visit to a military base, adding that the military should be well prepared, as quoted by the Yonhap news agency.

Han also warned of the threat of nuclear development and intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM).

Since the end of the Korean War in 1953, two Koreas have been divided by a demilitarized zone. The conflict is formally ongoing, as the sides signed an armistice, and not a peace treaty, at the end of the war. The process toward a potential Korean reunification was started by the 2000 NorthSouth Joint Declaration, but the relations between the two Koreas later deteriorated as the North declared itself a nuclear power in 2005, and has since conducted a number of nuclear and missile tests.

In the latest New Year's address to the nation, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said the country was finalizing preparations for another intercontinental ballistic missile test.

 Sputnik

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South Korea Finalizes Deployment of 36 Newest Apache Helicopters

Sputnik News

11:53 27.01.2017(updated 11:59 27.01.2017)

South Korea has finished the deployment of 36 US-built Apache attack helicopters of the latest model, local media reported Friday citing a military source.

MOSCOW (Sputnik)  According to Yonhap News Agency, the South Korean Defense Ministry has put into service all of AH-64Es helicopters under the $1.6-billion contract with the United States signed in 2013. Therefore, there are a total of 84 helicopters of that type in operation on the Korean Peninsula, including 48 US-held units.

The Apache is a helicopter constructed to survive heavy attack and is armed to inflict massive damage on ground forces. It is designed to operate day or night, including in unfavorable weather and poor visibility.

The political atmosphere on the Korean peninsula has become more tense over recent months, with the United States boosting its military presence in South Korea amid North Korea's nuclear and military threats.

 Sputnik

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Statement by SASC Cchairman John McCain on President Trump's Phone Call with Vladimir Putin

Jan 27 2017

Washington, D.C.  U.S. Senator John McCain (R-AZ), Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement today on President Donald Trump's phone call with Vladimir Putin tomorrow:

"President Donald Trump's call with Vladimir Putin is scheduled to take place amid widespread speculation that the White House is considering lifting sanctions against Russia. For the sake of America's national security and that of our allies, I hope President Trump will put an end to this speculation and reject such a reckless course. If he does not, I will work with my colleagues to codify sanctions against Russia into law.

"In just the last three years under Vladimir Putin, Russia has invaded Ukraine, annexed Crimea, threatened NATO allies, and intervened militarily in Syria, leaving a trail of death, destruction, and broken promises in his wake.

"Russia's war on Ukraine has killed over 10,000 Ukrainian soldiers and civilians. Russia supplied the weapons that shot down a commercial aircraft over Ukraine and killed 298 innocent people.

"Russia has conducted a massive military buildup along NATO's eastern flank, conducted large-scale military exercises, violated the borders, airspace, and territorial waters of its neighbors, and intensified its propaganda efforts to undermine the governments of our allies.

"Russia has propped up the murderous Assad regime as it has waged war on the Syrian people and killed more than 400,000 civilians. Russia's military has targeted Syrian hospitals and first responders with precision weapons. Instead of targeting ISIL, Russia has focused its operations against the moderate Syrian opposition, which has only empowered extremist forces in the country.

"And in the most flagrant demonstration of Putin's disdain and disrespect for our nation, Russia deliberately interfered in our recent election with cyberattacks and a disinformation campaign designed to weaken America and discredit Western values.

"Each of our last three presidents had high hopes for building a partnership with the Russian government. Each attempt failed, not for lack of good faith and effort on the U.S. side, but because Putin wants to be our enemy. He needs us as his enemy. He will never be our partner, including in fighting ISIL. He believes that strengthening Russia means weakening America. President Trump should remember this when he speaks to Vladimir Putin. He should remember that the man on the other end of the line is a murderer and a thug who seeks to undermine American national security interests at every turn. For our commander-in-chief to think otherwise would be naive and dangerous."

###

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Russia to mass produce multi-role MiG-35 warplane in 2019: Officials

Iran Press TV

Fri Jan 27, 2017 10:7PM

Russia's military plans to mass-produce a new generation of MiG-35 multi-role fighter jets in 2019, a year after the Russian Aerospace Forces will be equipped with the advanced aircraft, officials say.

Boris Slyusar, head of the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), made the remarks about the mass production of the MiG-35 during its unveiling ceremony in the town of Lukhovitsi near Moscow on Friday, adding that "until then, there will be flight tests which will be completed by that time."

Meanwhile, MiG Director General Ilya Tarasenko announced that the aircraft would be employed by the Russian Aerospace Forces next year.

The MiG-35, classified as a 4++ generation jet, is a greatly upgraded aircraft based on the earlier MiG-29M/M2 and MiG-29K/KUB airframes, featuring improved combat capability and flight performance characteristics.

Russian authorities expect that the lightweight fighter, developed jointly by the UAC and its subsidiary Mikoyan, the MiG company, will appeal to foreign customers.

Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin, who was present at the ceremony, noted that "the operational expenses" of the MiG-35 is lower compared with those of the Sukhoi jets, and "that is why our partners should be more willing to buy them."

On Thursday, the UAC and Mikoyan demonstrated the advanced warplane to the Russian government in Lukhovitsi through a widely publicized event, during which Russian President Vladimir Putin was reported to have watched the ceremony via remote video due to poor weather conditions in the region.

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McCain warns Trump against lifting Russian sanctions

Iran Press TV

Fri Jan 27, 2017 7:27PM

US Republican Senator John McCain has warned President Donald Trump of speculations that the new administration in Washington will lift sanctions against Moscow, describing the move as "reckless."

McCain made the comments in a statement on Friday, as Trump is scheduled to speak with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, the next day. It will be the first time that the two presidents talk on the phone since last week's inauguration.

"Trump's call with Vladimir Putin is scheduled to take place amid widespread speculation that the White House is considering lifting sanctions against Russia," McCain said in the statement.

"For the sake of America's national security and that of our allies, I hope President Trump will put an end to this speculation and reject such a reckless course," the US senator said. "If he does not, I will work with my colleagues to codify sanctions against Russia into law."

McCain argued that punitive measures against Russia had been imposed in response to the Kremlin's interfering actions in Ukraine and Syria. He also stressed that Moscow was still unwilling to change its behavior and therefore Washington should keep the sanctions in place.

"In just the last three years under Vladimir Putin, Russia has invaded Ukraine, annexed Crimea, threatened NATO allies, and intervened militarily in Syria, leaving a trail of death, destruction, and broken promises in his wake," he claimed.

The hawkish GOP senator also noted that Trump should bear in mind that the previous three administrations had "high hopes" for improving the US-Russian relationship and failed because, "Putin wants to be our enemy."

"[Trump] should remember that the man on the other end of the line is a murderer and a thug who seeks to undermine American national security interests at every turn," McCain said. "For our commander-in-chief to think otherwise would be naive and dangerous."

McCain has been a virulent critic of Russia and the new US president, who has repeatedly cast doubt over the claim that Russia launched cyberattacks on the US during the last year's presidential election.

On December 22, former US president Barack Obama announced a series of economic sanctions against Russia, as well as expulsion of 35 Russian diplomats, over allegations that it interfered in the 2016 presidential election through widespread hacking attacks.

The US claim has been rejected by Moscow.

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Some 192,209 military men and soldiers of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, who took part in the anti-terrorist operation, have received the status of war veteran since the beginning of the anti-terrorist operation in eastern Ukraine, Defense Ministry spokesperson Dmytro Hutsuliak has said.

At a briefing in Kyiv he informed that the Defense Ministry conferred a decoration to 36,000 soldiers and Armed Forces personnel, more than 12,000 soldiers were decorated by the state.
Trump Says It's 'Very Early' To Discuss Lifting Russia Sanctions

RFE/RL January 27, 2017

WASHINGTON -- U.S. President Donald Trump on January 27 said that it is premature to discuss the possibility of lifting sanctions against Russia, though his senior adviser said earlier in the day that such a move was "under consideration."

The comments by Trump and Kellyanne Conway came one day before Trump's first postinaugural telephone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin and amid speculation in Washington that Trump could remove sanctions imposed by his predecessor, Barack Obama, over Moscow's interference in Ukraine and alleged interference in the U.S. presidential election.

At a joint news conference in the White House with Britain's visiting Prime Minister Theresa May, Trump brushed off a question about the possibility of lifting sanctions on Russia.

"As far as the sanctions, very early to be talking about that," Trump told reporters following his talks with May, his first face-to-face meeting with a foreign leader since his inauguration last week.

Earlier on January 27, Conway was asked in a television interview whether the issue of sanctions would be "on the table right away."

"All of that is under consideration," Conway said.

At his news conference with May, Trump said that he hopes to have a "fantastic relationship" with Putin, while conceding that this might not occur.

May, for her part, said U.S. and EU sanctions should stay in place pending full implementation of the Minsk accords aimed at bringing an end to the conflict in eastern Ukraine, which has killed more than 9,750 people since April 2014.

"We believe the sanctions should continue until we see that Minsk agreement fully implemented, and we've been continuing to argue that inside the European Union," she said.

Washington has been awash in speculation this week that Trump is closely examining the possibility of removing sanctions against Moscow over its annexation of Ukraine's Crimea territory and backing of armed separatists in eastern Ukraine.

The reports triggered a backlash of criticism from some Republican lawmakers, including U.S. Senator John McCain, the Republican chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee.

In a critical statement on January 27, McCain vowed to pursue legislation that would cement sanctions against Russia into law if Trump tries to lift the punitive measures.

"For the sake of America's national security and that of our allies, I hope President Trump will put an end to this speculation and reject such a reckless course," McCain said. "If he does not, I will work with my colleagues to codify sanctions against Russia into law."

Because Obama used executive orders to impose several waves of sanctions to punish Russia for its 2014 annexation of Ukraine's Crimea territory and its backing of armed separatists in eastern Ukraine, Trump could undo these measures with his own executive orders.

But tegislation to enshrine the sanctions in law would tie Trump's hands in the matter, and lawmakers could override any White House veto should such a bill garner sufficient support in both houses of Congress.

Another Republican senator, Rob Portman of Ohio, also backed the idea of putting the sanctions into law, saying that lifting the punitive measures would send "a dangerous message."

"We must stand by our allies in the region, including Ukraine," Portman, co-chairman of the Senate Ukraine Caucus, said in a January 27 statement.

Asked whether Russia would have to change its ways in order for the United States to ease sanctions -- a reference to Moscow's intervention in Ukraine and Syria -- Conway said that Trump "will call out other nations when he believes [what they are doing is] not in the American interest, in the interest of humanity."

"But that's what these conversations are for, these private conversations with world leaders," she said.

Conway spoke after Putin's spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, said that Trump and Putin are due to speak by phone on January 28.

The White House confirmed that and said Trump will also speak to German Chancelllor Angela Merkel and French President Francois Hollande.

The Reuters news agency quoted an unnamed source in Berlin as saying that Merkel's conversation with Trump is expected to focus on Russia.

Peskov said the Putin-Trump call is expected to be held late in the day Moscow time. He stressed that it is an initial contact, saying that "one should hardly expect that this phone call will involve substantive discussions across the whole range of issues."

Peskov said that he has no information about the possibility of an order from Trump lifting sanctions.

In a separate appearance on CBS, Conway said that Trump and Putin are likely to discuss the fight against Islamic militants among other issues.

"I assume they will discuss, in the interests of their respective countries, how to come together and work together on issues where you can find common ground and where these two nations could maybe defeat radical Islamic terrorism," she said.

Trump has praised Putin and voiced hope for improvements in relations with Russia, which have been badly strained by Moscow's seizure of Crimea and support for separatists in a war in eastern Ukraine, as well as what U.S. intelligence officials say was Russian interference on Trump's behalf in the U.S. presidential election.

Asked about rumors that Trump is considering an order to lift U.S. sanctions against Russia, Peskov said that he has no information about it.

The White House said after Trump was sworn in that defeating "radical Islamic terror groups" will be the top foreign policy priority and that the United States will "pursue aggressive joint and coalition military operations when necessary" to achieve that goal.

Speaking about the planned phone call on the CBS program This Morning on January 27, Conway said: "I assume they will discuss, in the interests of their respective countries, how to come together and work together on issues where you can find common ground and where these two nations could maybe defeat radical Islamic terrorism."

Speaking at a news conference in December, Putin cited Trump as saying that Russian-U.S. relations couldn't be worse and added: "I agree with him. Together we'll think about how to improve things," Putin said.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that U.S. and Russian interests "obviously coincide" and that Moscow is ready to consider concrete proposals from the Trump administration.

"Let me remind you that [Putin] called 18 months ago for the formation of a full-fledged, universal front for fighting terrorism, and this initiative is still on the table," Lavrov said on January 23.

In his January 27 statement, McCain said Putin "will never be our partner in fighting" Islamic State militants and accused the Russian leader of being a "murderer and a thug who seeks to undermine American national security interests."

McCain is a vocal hawk on Moscow who has repeatedly been accused by the Kremlin of stoking anti-Russian sentiment.

Trump and Putin last spoke after the November 8 election, when Putin called to congratulate Trump on his victory.

Meanwhile, in Berlin, a German government spokesman declined to confirm that Chancellor Angela Merkel was likely to speak on the telephone with Trump on January 28.

Ulrike Demmer, a deputy government spokesman, told reporters that such telephone conversations are only confirmed after they have taken place.

Earlier on January 27, the Reuters news agency quoted an unnamed source in Berlin as saying Merkel and Trump will speak on the phone and that their conversation is expected to focus on Russia.

With reporting by Reuters, AP, AFP, dpa, TASS, and Interfax

Source: http://www.rferl.org/a/us-russia-trump-putin-call/28262519.html

Copyright (c) 2017. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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McCain Vows To Cement Sanctions Against Russia If Trump Tries To Lift Them

RFE/RL January 27, 2017

WASHINGTON -- U.S. Senator John McCain says he will pursue legislation that would cement sanctions against Russia into law if President Donald Trump decides to lift them.

McCain, a Republican from Arizona, made the pledge in a January 27 statement, a day before a planned phone call between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Earlier on January 27, senior Trump adviser Kellyanne Conway said in a television interview that lifting U.S. sanctions that were imposed against Russia over its actions in Ukraine and elsewhere was "under consideration."

McCain noted that the January 28 phone call between Trump and Putin comes "amid widespread speculation that the White House is considering lifting sanctions against Russia."

"For the sake of America's national security and that of our allies, I hope President Trump will put an end to this speculation and reject such a reckless course," McCain said. "If he does not, I will work with my colleagues to codify sanctions against Russia into law."

McCain, a vocal critic of Putin, called the Russian president a "murderer and a thug who seeks to undermine American national security interests."

Moscow has repeatedly accused McCain of stirring up anti-Russian sentiment.

Trump's stated desire to seek better relations with Russia has triggered criticism from both Republicans and Democrats in Congress.

Source: http://www.rferl.org/a/mccain-trump-russia- sanctions-ukraine/28263690.html

Copyright (c) 2017. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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British PM: Engage With Putin 'But Beware'

Carl Schreck January 27, 2017

The West should engage with Russia but remain wary about Moscow's intentions, British Prime Minister Theresa May has said in the United States.

Addressing Republican lawmakers on January 26 ahead of a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, May alluded to former President Ronald Reagan's approach to talks with his Soviet counterpart, Mikhail Gorbachev.

"When it comes to Russia, as so often it is wise to turn to the example of President Reagan who -- during negotiations with his opposite number Mikhail Gorbachev -- used to abide by the adage 'trust but verify,'" May said.

"With President [Vladimir] Putin, my advice is to 'engage but beware,'" she added.

May delivered the remarks shortly before her meeting in Philadelphia with Trump, the U.S. president's first face-to-face meeting with a foreign leader since he took office last week.

She used the speech to stress the importance of the "special relationship" between the two countries in addressing global challenges such as terrorism.

"So we -- our two countries together -- have a responsibility to lead. Because when others step up as we step back, it is bad for America, for Britain, and the world," May said in a speech that was repeatedly interrupted by enthusiastic applause from the audience.

At the same time, she said, "This cannot mean a return to the failed policies of the past."

"The days of Britain and America intervening in sovereign countries in an attempt to remake the world in our own image are over. But nor can we afford to stand idly by when the threat is real and when it is in our own interests to intervene," May said. "We must be strong, smart, and hard-headed."

May defended the Iran nuclear deal, which Trump has sharply criticized, but said the pact easing sanctions against Tehran in exchange for the curbs on its nuclear program should be "very carefully and rigorously policed."

She delivered sharp criticism of Russia, in particular over its 2014 annexation of Ukraine's Crimea territory, which she called "illegal."

Trump says he wants greater cooperation with Russia on issues like counterterrorism and Syria, and he suggested during his presidential campaign that he could lift sanctions that the Obama administration slapped on Moscow in response to the annexation.

Trump's election has also been dogged by allegations from the U.S. intelligence community that Russian hackers meddled in the campaign in a bid to help him win the White House.

The Kremlin denies the allegations. Trump has conceded that Russia was likely behind cyberattacks targeting the campaign of his Democratic rival, Hillary Clinton, but insists that the hacking had no impact on the outcome of the election.

Trump has also made fellow NATO members in Eastern Europe nervous by referring to the alliance as "obsolete."

In her speech, May voiced firm support for allies in the region, saying the West should "give assurance to Russia's neighboring states that their security is not in question."

"We should not jeopardize the freedoms that President Reagan and [former British Prime Minister Margaret] Thatcher brought to Eastern Europe by accepting President Putin's claim that it is now in his sphere of influence," she said.

May added, however, that "there is nothing inevitable about conflict between Russia and the West, and nothing unavoidable about retreating to the days of the Cold War."

"But we should engage with Russia from a position of strength, and we should build the relationships, systems, and processes that make cooperation more likely than conflict," she said.

With reporting by Reuters

Source: http://www.rferl.org/a/british-prime- minister-may-to-trump-engage-with-putin-but- beware-reagan-mantra/28262198.html

Copyright (c) 2017. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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US House Speaker Says Anti-Russian Sanctions Should Stay in Place

Sputnik News

23:54 27.01.2017(updated 01:27 28.01.2017)

House Speaker Paul Ryan claims that Donald Trump should keep the sanctions against Russia imposed by the administration of former President Barack Obama.

WASHINGTON (Sputnik)  US President Donald Trump should keep the sanctions against Russia imposed by the administration of former President Barack Obama, House Speaker Paul Ryan said in an interview.

"I think sanctions are overdue. Obama was late on putting them in place. I think they should stay," Ryan stated in the interview to Politico on Friday.

Earlier in the day, White House Counselor Kellyanne Conway told Fox News that the Trump administration is considering reversing punitive measures against Moscow.

Conway's statement sparked immediate criticism from US senators. Senate Committee on Armed Services Chairman John McCain threatened that if Trump does not abandon his "reckless course" of lifting sanctions against Moscow, the Congress will codify them into law.

Trump stressed in a Friday press conference that it was too early to discuss removing anti-Russia sanctions. The phone conversation between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin is set for Saturday.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Friday that the two leaders are expected to exchange views on the state of bilateral relations.

 Sputnik

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Russia to Start Churning Out MiG-35 Fighter Jets in 2019

Sputnik News

14:19 27.01.2017(updated 14:20 27.01.2017)

Russia will begin churning out advanced MiG-35 multipurpose jets in 2019.

LUKHOVITSY (Moscow Region), (Sputnik)  Serial production of Russia's advanced MiG-35 multirole fighters will begin in 2019 following flight tests, the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) head told Sputnik on Friday.

"In 2019 we plan to launch the MiG-35 into series. Until then there will be flight tests which will be completed by that time," UAC President Boris Slyusar said.

The Russian MiG-35 (NATO reporting name Fulcrum-F) is a 4++ generation jet, which has been created with the use of technical decisions used in the MiG-29M/M2 and MiG-29K/KUB aircraft and new advanced technologies.

 Sputnik

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Russia Will Replace Entire Fleet of Light Fighters With Cutting-Edge MiG-35 Jets

Sputnik News

12:57 27.01.2017(updated 15:06 27.01.2017)

The Russian Aerospace Forces will upgrade the whole fleet of its light fighters to the new MiG-35 aircraft.

LUKHOVITSY (Sputnik)  Russia's Aerospace Forces plan to replace the entire fleet of light fighters with the state-of-the-art MiG-35 (Fulcrum-F) multirole fighters, the forces' commander, Viktor Bondarev, said Friday at the aircraft's presentation.

"We will buy these planes, we need them In a short time, we will replace all light fighter aircraft with this class," Bondarev said.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday that he hoped the Russian armed forces would be significantly reinforced by the new MiG-35.

"Upon completion of flight tests [in summer 2017], the Russian Aerospace Forces plan to buy the first batch of MiG-35s in the amount of 30 aircraft. A total of 170 aircraft will be purchased for the complete replacement of the light combat aircraft fleet," Bondarev specified.

The MiG-35 is a further development of the MiG-29M/M2 and MiG-29K/KUB fighter jets, featuring improved combat capability and flight performance characteristics.

 Sputnik

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US President Popular in Russia - With Caveats

By Svetlana Cunningham January 27, 2017

As President Donald Trump prepares to speak by telephone Saturday with Russian President Vladimir Putin, the newly installed U.S. leader finds himself more popular in Russia than in the United States.

That unusual situation owes much to the positive coverage Trump has received in Russia's state-controlled media.

While a recent Gallup poll found that 45 percent of Americans approve of Trump, a record low for an incoming U.S. president, a survey by Russia's state-run VTsIOM polling agency found that 40 percent of Russians think Trump will either be a good U.S. president or "one of the best" (8 percent), while 31 percent said he will be "average."

Only 4 percent predicted he would be a bad U.S. president.

It is not hard to understand Trump's high approval rating in Russia, given the way he was covered by the country's Kremlin-controlled media during last year's U.S. presidential election.

"There is no other nation in the world that was watching Donald Trump so closely during his campaign, cheering him on," declared Dmitry Kiselyov, the head of the giant government-controlled international news agency Rossiya Segodnya (Russia Today).

Kiselyov, who also hosts a widely watched program on state television, has backed Trump openly and loudly on his show.

"They failed to portray Putin as a monster, now they're trying with Trump," he said during a recent program, referring to the U.S. media.

Since his inauguration, Trump has received a lot of positive coverage from Russia's state media. Since mid-January, Time Will Tell, a live political talk show that airs weekdays on state television, has devoted five programs exclusively to the American president.

During one of those broadcasts, host Anatoly Kuzichev, who has called Trump "our president," stood in front of a large screen with Trump's face photoshopped onto an image of Star Wars' character Obi-Wan Kenobi swinging his laser sword.

Kuzichev compared America's new commander-in-chief to "a lone Jedi" on a mission to save America, who is "all alone out there when we can't help him from all the way in Russia."

Still, there have been notes of concern. While the new American president has stated repeatedly that he wants to improve the U.S.-Russian relationship  particularly with an eye toward cooperating against the Islamic State terror group  he has also proposed lifting the sanctions imposed on Russia for its annexation of Crimea in exchange for a deal with Moscow to reduce nuclear arms.

"I think nuclear weapons should be way down and reduced very substantially," Trump said in an interview this month with the Times of London and Germany's Bild newspaper.

Those comments were greeted in Moscow with caution and skepticism. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Moscow expects a dialogue with Washington on nuclear weapons, but said any negotiations should include new hypersonic weapons, a U.S. missile shield in Europe, space weapons and nuclear testing.

Konstantin Kosachev, the head of the international affairs committee of the Federation Council, the upper house of Russia's parliament, said Trump's proposal shouldn't be given "the status of an official proposal," adding that the U.S. president's comments were "speculative" in nature.

Apparently, the Russian public is also skeptical about the proposal to lift sanctions in exchange for nuclear arms reduction: In the VTsIOM poll from earlier this month, 55 percent of the respondents said they opposed such a deal.

Another poll, conducted January 20-23 by the Levada Center, Russia's only independent national polling agency, found the number of Russians seeing an improvement in U.S.-Russian relations has dropped 9 percentage points since November.

Levada Center Deputy Director Alexei Grazhdankin told VOA's Russian service he believed the drop in optimism about U.S.-Russian relations was due to the Russian media's coverage of American politics.

"All the recent reports in the [Russian] press and on television [on this subject] in December-January can be summarized as saying that Trump's desire to improve relations with Russia is facing stiff resistance from other power structures in the United States," he said.

"Therefore, they said, it is quite possible his plans will not quickly be implemented in practice, and for that matter will wind up being nothing more than election promises."

Victor Vasiliev contributed to this report from Moscow.

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Pentagon wary of Trump's plan to create 'safe zones' in Syria

Iran Press TV

Fri Jan 27, 2017 10:51AM

The Pentagon is skeptical about President Donald Trump's plan to establish "safe zones" inside Syria, a move that could require tens of thousands of US military personnel to execute, according to a report.

The draft executive order would reportedly give the Defense Department and State Department 90 days to devise a strategy for establishing and protecting several camps for refugees in Syria.

Pentagon officials have refused to discuss the initiative publicly, saying Thursday the matter was "pre-decisional" and that Defense Secretary Jim Mattis had yet to receive an order from the White House, according to a report by The Military Times.

Navy Capt. Jeff Davis, a Pentagon spokesman, said Mattis was aware of the draft documents but had not acted on them.

"Let's give him a chance to see what is even in them," Davis said. "Let's give this a chance to develop, and we'll see what the guidance is, and we'll carry out the guidance."

Privately, some Pentagon officials described Trump's plan as "ambiguous," questioning whether the initiative would involve setting up secure camps for Syrian refugees, establishing no-fly zones  or both.

"ISIL's defeat is critical to creating safe space" in Syria, an official told The Times. "That's how they're going to get the traction required to bring their economy back again. That's how they will grow stability. We have to kill ISIL before people can feel safe and secure."

Trump's predecessor, Barack Obama, abandoned the idea of safe zones after his military advisers estimated that the strategy would need up to 30,000 US troops.

There are currently about 500 US soldiers on the ground in Syria, mostly Special Operations forces advising US-allied militants and coordinating airstrikes.

During his election campaign, Trump slammed his Democratic rival, Hillary Clinton, for proposing the establishment of a no-fly zone and "safe zones" in Syria.

He warned that Clinton's policy towards Syria would "lead to World War III", arguing that she would drag the US into an armed confrontation with Russia.

The president is expected to meet with Mattis and other senior military officials at the Pentagon on Friday to discuss options in Syria, but the challenges are numerous.

The six-year-old conflict is in the midst of a fragile ceasefire, sponsored by Russia, Turkey and Iran, and any escalation of US military involvement, military experts say, would carry the risk of confrontations with Syrian government forces and Russian military forces supporting them.

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Geneva talks on Syrian crisis postponed to February end: Russian FM

Iran Press TV

Fri Jan 27, 2017 8:31AM

Russia says the next of round peace negotiations, which were planned to be held between the Syrian government and opposition groups early in February, have been postponed to the end of next month.

"The date of February 8 has been put back until the end of next month," Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told a meeting with Syrian opposition groups on Friday.

The upcoming negotiations, which are to be hosted by the United Nations, will follow two-day talks held between Syria's warring sides in Astana, Kazakhstan, earlier this week with the mediation of Iran, Russia and Turkey.

At the end of Astana talks on January 26, Iran, Russia and Turkey agreed on the establishment of a trilateral mechanism to support the ceasefire in Syria and monitor possible violations.

Russia wants 'long-term' cooperation with Iran, Turkey

In another development on Friday, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova expressed hope that Moscow's cooperation with Turkey and Iran on the Syria crisis would be long-term.

Prior to the Astana event, Moscow, Tehran and Ankara had helped pave the way for a countrywide ceasefire deal between Damascus and opposition groups. The agreement does not apply to the Takfiri Daesh and Fateh al-Sham terror groups.

Among the salient features of Astana talks was the absence of Saudi Arabia and Qatar, which had taken part in previous meetings on Syria in Geneva.

The government of Syria had voiced its vehement disagreement to participation of Riyadh and Doha in Astana talks ahead of the international gathering, citing their support for armed militants, who have wreaked havoc in the Arab country.

Marginalization of the United States was another feature of the Astana talks. Iran had objected to the presence of Washington in Syria peace negotiations, with Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif noting that no joint invitation had been extended to the United States for participation in Syria talks.

At the Astana talks, Iran, Russia and Turkey stressed that there was no military solution to the Syria conflict and that the crisis could be only resolved through a political process based on full implementation of the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2254.

The three countries also agreed to work out a trilateral agreement with the goal of supervising the ceasefire in the Arab country.

The latest peace initiative came after the Syrian army dealt a crushing blow last month to the Takfiri militant groups controlling the eastern sector of Aleppo, the country's second largest city.

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Weakened Syrian Rebels Maintain Disapproval of Russian-proposed Constitution

By Jamie Dettmer January 27, 2017

Seven months ago, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad reacted indignantly when a Lebanese newspaper reported that Russian diplomats had finished drafting a new constitution for his country  one that included a name change for the Syrian Arab Republic with the removal of the word Arab.

On its face, the proposed constitution clawed back some powers from the Syrian president, handing them to the prime minister, a council of ministers and decentralized "regional commissions"  although the system of government under the Russian plan remained largely presidential.

"No draft constitution has been shown to the Syrian Arab Republic. Everything which has been said in the media about this subject is totally untrue," Assad's statement read.

This week, the Assad government toned down its objections  at least in public  when Russian negotiators at the Astana talks handed to rebel counterparts a version of the draft constitution. In private, within the talks process, the government has raised reservations. The difference speaks volumes, say Middle East analysts, arguing that it reflects how Russia is now calling the shots when it comes to finding a solution to the long-running conflict in Syria.

Russia fills gap

This week, Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May told U.S. Republicans in a speech that neither her country nor America should invade foreign countries "to make the world in their own image." Russia appears determined to fill the gap and model post-conflict Syria according to its vision.

Last week, Russia signed a long-term military agreement with Syria allowing it to expand its Tartus naval base. A similar agreement allows the expansion of the Russian-built Khmeimim air base in Latakia.

Syrian rebels have noted the contrast between what they see as a retreating West and a newly assertive Moscow, dubbing Russia "imperialist." Rebel negotiators have rejected Russia's draft constitution, telling Moscow that only Syrians are entitled to write their country's constitution. However, some rebel leaders concede privately that their weakness on the battlefield thanks to Russian hard power and a developing rapprochement between Moscow and Turkey, their biggest overseas backer, is placing them in an increasingly weak position.

Speaking Friday in Moscow, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stressed the importance of the Russian draft constitution for a future Syria.

"The draft constitution attempts to bring together and find shared points in those approaches that were outlined to us both by representatives of the government and representatives of the opposition, including all those present here, over the past several years," Lavrov said.

He emphasized Russia does not want to impose it on the country. The rebels, however, aren't so sure. They say that, at the very least, Russia is trying to pre-define much of what will be discussed when it comes to U.N.-brokered peace talks expected to resume next month.

Syrian opposition figure Yahya al-Aridi says Russia's Syria envoy, Alexander Lavrentiev, presented the rebel delegation with the draft constitution at the start of the Astana talks this week.

Left on the table

At first, the rebel negotiators left the document on the table, a gesture of disregard and in line with their insistence that they only agreed to attend the Russian-brokered negotiations to discuss the fragile cease-fire and boosting humanitarian aid into their war-torn country.

Their biggest priority all week has been to get Iranian-controlled militias to abide by the cease-fire brokered by Russia and Turkey.

As far as the rebels are concerned, the draft constitution merely shakes up existing government power structures, a reformulation as they see it of the existing Baath party's state structures. The draft goes further: curbing presidential powers, adjusting the parliamentary structure, and introducing changes to the judiciary and the security agencies.

And to the frustration of Syrian Kurds, who welcome the proposed dropping of Arab in the name of the country, the Russian constitution falls short of political federalism, although it envisages Kurds being given greater administrative freedoms in northeast Syria. The ruling Kurdish PYD in northern Syria attended a Moscow meeting Friday. The PYD was not invited to the Astana talks because of Turkish objections  Ankara views the group as a terrorist organization with ties to Turkey's outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK).

Russia's state-owned news agency, Sputnik News, reported in June 2016 that Russia suggested the name change for the country "in order to appeal to ethnic minorities such as Kurds and Turkmen." Pre-war Syria had a 74 percent majority Arab population; 9 percent were Kurds, and there were about 100,000 Turkmen.

Before he took office on January 20, U.S. President Donald Trump indicated he will cede efforts to end the Syrian civil war to the Russians, and suggested he might end American financial and logistical support for rebel forces battling Assad.

The Syrian president has clung to power thanks to the intervention of allies Russia and Iran. And they appear now to be securing rewards. Earlier this month, the Syrian government announced it would give Iran 5,000 hectares of land for farming, and 1,000 hectares for oil and gas terminals. Iran also has secured electricity projects.

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The VoxUkraine independent analytical platform has conducted a study under the index for monitoring of reforms (iMoRe) project concerning reforms conducted by Ukrainian ministries.

"The general situation is how reforms were conducted in the past two years. If briefly, the reform pace is slowing, at least, in amendments to legislation," reads the study presented at a press conference at Interfax-Ukraine on Thursday.

According to the study, the Economic Development and Trade Ministry was the leader among ministries having relation to the economic policy with 109 points.

"The Economic Development and Trade Ministry actively initiated bills and resolutions that positively influence the deregulation process, combat against corruption, liberalization of foreign trade and reformation of public procurement," reads the study.

The Finance Ministry is second with 77 points. The ministry initiated many legal acts intended to fight corruption and worked on tax system, social protection and public expenses reforms.

The Justice Ministry is third with 65 points. The ministry contributed to the anti-corruption, deregulation and civil service reforms.

The Energy and Coal Industry Ministry is fourth with 32 points, Regional Development, Construction, Housing and Utilities Economy Ministry follows it with 30 points. Infrastructure Ministry had 27 points, Health Ministry  26 points and Social Policy Ministry  25 points. The Education and Science Ministry and Agrarian Policy and Food Ministry had 18 and 13 points respectively.

The iMoRe rating of ministries reflects their reform progress. Each reform-related legal act is assessed by experts. The assessment of ministries in the rating is a sum of points received by all reform-related acts initiated by the ministry.
UN Won't Confirm Postponement of Syrian Peace Talks

By VOA News January 27, 2017

The United Nations said Friday there was "no confirmation" of a postponement of the Syria talks scheduled for February, clouding a statement from Russia's foreign minister earlier in the day.

Sergei Lavrov said Friday during a meeting in Moscow with several Syrian rebel groups that the U.N.-hosted talks planned for February 8 would be postponed. He did not provide a reason for the postponement.

A spokesman for the U.N. envoy in Syria, however, said the list of diplomats attending the talks in Geneva hadn't been finalized and wouldn't confirm a postponement.

"There is no confirmation that the February talks are postponed. I said that we are going to be sure once the special envoy (Staffan de Mistura) is back," U.N. spokeswoman Yara Shariff told reporters.

Earlier this week, Turkey and Russia, along with Iran, brought delegates from the Syrian government and rebel groups to Kazakhstan for a round of peace talks that ended with the three nations agreeing to help monitor a partial cease-fire and work toward a political resolution to the Syrian conflict.

Turkey spokesman Huseyin Muftuoglu said Thursday his country will not allow certain fighters to spoil the cease-fire, which went into effect in late December. He also reiterated Turkey's position that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has no place in Syria's future. Turkey has backed the rebels throughout the conflict that began in 2011 as peaceful protests before spiraling into a civil war.

Assad's fate has been a point of disagreement during multiple international efforts to achieve peace in Syria. The U.N. has created a framework that calls for a new constitution and new elections. Assad's allies, which include Russia and Iran, have said he should stay in power.

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Britain's Top Diplomat Hints Assad Could Remain Syria's President Under Peace Deal

By VOA News January 27, 2017

Britain's foreign minister says Bashar al-Assad should be allowed to seek another term as Syria's president if any agreement is reached to end the country's nearly six-year-long civil war.

The United States and its Western allies have long insisted that Assad must relinquish power in Syria as part of any peace agreement. But the latest remarks by British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson could signal a possible major shift in policy by one of Washington's closest partners.

Neither British Prime Minister Theresa May nor U.S. President Donald Trump mentioned Syria during their joint news conference at the White House Friday. Johnson did not accompany the British government chief on her visit to the U.S., but he discussed the situation in Syria with members of Parliament in London.

Time to re-evaluate

Johnson said the transition of power in Washington since Trump's inauguration should prompt all sides involved in the Syrian conflict to re-evaluate their positions. Taking note of the U.S. president's planned telephone discussion on Saturday with Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin, Johnson admitted that taking a new approach toward Syria would have potential drawbacks.

But speaking to the international relations committee of the House of Lords, the upper house of Parliament, Johnson said there is now a need to be "realistic about the way the landscape has changed" and seek a fresh approach to the Syrian crisis.

"It is our view that Bashar al-Assad should go. It's been our long-standing position," Johnson said. "But we are open-minded about how that happens and the timescale on which that happens."

Meeting with Bannon

Johnson discussed foreign policy and other issues earlier this month with senior members of Trump's team, including chief strategist Steve Bannon, in New York. Long known as a gadfly within Britain's Conservative Party, and for his outspoken, irreverent views, Johnson was a journalist and served as mayor of London until 2016, when his strong support for Brexit, Britain's breakaway from the European Union, catapulted him into the job of serving as his country's top diplomatic post in May's Cabinet.

Russia has sought to impose its influence as a power broker in the Syrian civil war, and Trump has repeated his desire to have a good relationship with Russia.

Russia question dodged

A White House adviser said Trump and Putin may discuss lifting U.S. sanctions imposed on Russia after its annexation of Crimea and support for secessionist groups in Ukraine. Speaking at his news conference with Britain's May, Trump did not answer directly when asked if he planned to ease any of the financial measures targeting Russian businesses.

If there is an agreement to end the civil war in Syria, Johnson said in London Thursday, Assad should be allowed to run for president in elections overseen by the United Nations. Russia and Iran have made similar proposals, saying Assad should be free to seek re-election during a future political transition period.

The 51-year-old Syrian government leader, trained as an ophthalmologist, has ruled his country since 2000, after the death of his father, Hafez al-Assad, who had tightly controlled Syria for three decades.

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Turkish aerial attacks kill nearly 60 PKK militants in northern Iraq

Iran Press TV

Fri Jan 27, 2017 5:44PM

Nearly five dozen members of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) have been killed when Turkish military aircraft carried out a string of aerial attacks against the militants' positions in Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdistan region.

The Turkish General Staff announced in a statement on Friday that at least 57 PKK terrorists were killed and scores of others injured between January 13 and 14 as Turkish warplanes bombarded their hideouts in the Metina area.

On January 16, four Turkish police officers were killed and two others injured in a roadside bomb explosion that targeted their patrol vehicle in Turkey's southeastern and Kurdish-populated province of Diyarbakir.

A security source, speaking on condition of anonymity, said PKK militants detonated the bomb near an excavation site in the Sur district of the province, situated 676 kilometers east of the capital, Ankara, as a police vehicle was passing by.

A total of 110 PKK militants were killed and 42 others captured during clashes with Turkish security forces in December last year, according to figures compiled by Turkey's official Anadolu news agency.

Another 18 Kurdish militants surrendered themselves to authorities.

Fifty-five members of the security personnel were killed, and 10 civilians lost their lives during the mentioned period.

Furthermore, 1,146 PKK suspects were arrested, out of whom 604 were taken into custody.

A shaky ceasefire between the PKK, which has been calling for an autonomous Kurdish region since 1984, and the Turkish government collapsed in July 2015. Attacks on Turkish security forces have soared ever since.

Over the past few months, Turkish ground and air forces have been carrying out operations against the PKK positions in the country's troubled southeastern border region as well as northern Iraq and Syria.

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Turkish airstrikes kill 10 civilian in Syria: Monitoring group

Iran Press TV

Fri Jan 27, 2017 11:32AM

Turkish airstrikes in and around the Syrian town of al-Bab have killed at least 10 civilians, including a child, a monitoring group says.

The so-called Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said on Friday that Turkish warplanes launched the airstrikes against the northern town and the nearby area of Tadif on Thursday.

Turkey, which started an incursion into Syria in August last year, is now in the middle of a military operation with the declared objective of retaking al-Bab from Daesh terrorists.

Turkish official news agency Anadolu reported on Friday that 22 Daesh terrorists had been killed in the latest round of Turkish strikes on Syria.

While Turkish officials deny that airstrikes have killed civilians, the Observatory says almost 250 civilians lost their lives and more than a thousand others sustained injuries between November 13 last year and January 15 this year as a result of Turkish artillery attacks and airstrikes against northern Syrian towns.

'Bogged down in the Syrian quagmire'

At least 48 Turkish soldiers have also been killed since the battle began to take al-Bab, according to an AFP tally.

On Friday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan vowed to "finish the job" in al-Bab, but said it was not necessary for the military to push any deeper inside Syria.

Turkish officials have repeatedly claimed in the last few weeks that al-Bab would be taken imminently, but Faruk Logoglu, a former Turkish ambassador to the United States and ex-opposition MP, has said Turkey is being "drawn further into the Syria quagmire," because it "is lacking final objectives and an exit strategy."

"The target given is well beyond what's achievable. That's the problem," Logoglu told AFP.

The incursion was the first major Turkish military intervention in Syria, which drew strong condemnation from the Syrian government for violating the Arab country's sovereignty.

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Turkish Air Force Killed 57 PKK Fighters in Iraq on January 13-14

Sputnik News

18:00 27.01.2017(updated 18:01 27.01.2017)

The Turkish General Staff said Ankara's airstrikes had killed 57 PKK fighters on January 13-14 in an area in Iraq.

ANKARA (Sputnik)  A total of 57 Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) fighters were killed in airstrikes carried out by Turkish forces on January 13-14 in the Metina region of northern Iraq, the Turkish General Staff said Friday.

"Airstrikes on the separatist terror group (PKK) targets killed 57 terrorists, injured a vast number of the fighters in the Metina region on January 13-14," the General Staff said, adding that several defensive positions which had been used by the fighters were damaged.

Armed conflict between the Turkish army and the pro-independence PKK, listed as terrorist group by Ankara, resumed in 2015 and has resulted in elimination of some 10,000 PKK members, according to the General Staff estimates.

The Kurds are living in parts of Turkey, Iraq, Iran and Syria. In Turkey, they represent the largest ethnic minority, and are striving to create their own independent state.

 Sputnik

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Royal Air Force playing major role in world's premier air combat exercise

27 January 2017

The world's premier air combat exercise is underway in Nevada, USA, with the Royal Air Force training alongside US and Australian counterparts.

Based at Nellis Air Force Base, Exercise Red Flag pits 'Blue' coalition forces against hostile 'Red Force' aggressors, mirroring real-life threats in air-to-air, air-to-ground, space and cyber warfare.

Red Flag's live element takes place over the US Air Force's premier military training area in Nevada; over 15,000 square miles of airspace and 2.9 million acres of land  an impossible scale to achieve in Europe.

Speaking about the Exercise, Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon said:

"The RAF is playing a major role alongside our greatest ally in the world's leading aerial combat training exercise."

"Britain's pilots and aircrews will receive unparalleled training and an opportunity to sharpen the combat skills they are demonstrating every day in the fight against Daesh."

"Training alongside two of our greatest allies in America and Australia shows how the UK is stepping up internationally, ensuring maximum interoperability with our partners, and in doing so helping keep Britain safer and more secure."

Typhoon jets, from 6 Squadron, RAF Lossiemouth, are operating in a swing-role capacity, fighting their way into hostile airspace, launching precision strikes on ground targets and fighting their way out again.

Working with the US Air Force (USAF) F-35A Lightning II for the first time, and with USAF F-22 Raptors; the exercise has been a hugely rewarding exposure to 5th Generation aircraft for RAF crews ahead of the F-35B's introduction into the RAF's combat inventory in 2018.

This is also the first time the RAF's Voyager is taking part in the exercise. The Voyager is providing key air-to-air refuelling capability during the exercise, while a Sentinel and Rivet Joint are gathering intelligence and other mission-critical information.

Speaking from the exercise, Group Captain Graham Pemberton, RAF Detachment Commander said:

"Red Flag replicates truly challenging, high-end warfare, from realistic aerial combat to emerging cyber and space threats. It's as close as we can get to the real thing."

"Testing ourselves against highly capable enemy aggressors is hugely beneficial and improves and readies our personnel, from pilots to those in crucial support roles, for real world operations."

"It's a privilege for us to work with our US Air Force and Royal Australian Air Force counterparts and to cement our relationships with them at an exercise of this scale."

The exercise will run until early February and marks the start of three months of RAF Typhoon activity in the USA.

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A former state police commissioner and a detective, who rendered services to Ukrainian businessman Dmytro Firtash, have been convicted of corruption on a large scale in Germany, according to the German edition DW.

According to the report, on Friday, January 27, the court in the northern German town of Schwerin delivered its verdict in the case of the former chief commissioner of the criminal police of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Heinz-Peter Hahndorf, and the ex-agent of the GDR security service Stasi, Christina Wilkening.

"The former civil servant was sentenced to three years in prison for taking bribes on a large scale, the disclosure of official secrets and tax evasion. Wilkening, who calls herself a "private detective," will have to spend two years and ten months in prison. In addition to taking bribes, she was also found guilty of incitement to issue official secrets," DW wrote, with reference to the court's press service.

According to the publication, the civil servant received large sums from the "detective" for providing various types of service information. There was also a case related to Firtash.
The Pittsylvania County School Board is waiting on the Virginia General Assembly to finalize state budget changes before proceeding with prioritizing new initiatives, budget committee member George Henderson said Friday.

We cant offer anybody anything until we hear from the state, Henderson said.

Henderson said Virginia was supposed to have everything in place by January, so the legislature still has a few days to meet that deadline.

Were kind of in limbo right now as far as salaries, he said.

The state cancelled a planned 2 percent raise for school employees last year due to a revenue shortfall. GOP leaders unveiled a plan Wednesday to give raises to all state employees except teachers, saying many school systems went ahead and gave teachers raises in last years budgets.

Henderson said one of the biggest requests from teachers was for a new health insurance plan that makes rates more affordable.

Thats the biggest thing the teachers are waiting for, he said.
Jacob Breeden, of Lignum in Culpeper County, recently shot and killed in his front yard what may be Virginias largest-ever feral hog, weighing a whopping 545 pounds.

According to state wildlife officials, the sizable male beast could have alternatively been an escaped domestic pig or a feral swine that someone fattened up for recreational hunting, which they do not encourage due to the significant damage the disease-ridden creatures can cause to crops, property and people.

Whatever it was when 17-year-old Breeden saw it tearing up his yard last Saturday, he grabbed his rifle.

I went outside, and it charged me, he was flapping its jaws together and running toward me, he said. I was kind of shocked to see how big it was. When he came up to me the way he did, I had no choice but to shoot him.

Breeden said he was scared for himself and his young nieces and nephews in the house, calling the thing with tusks a wild boar. His adrenaline kicked in and he took down the beast that measured 6-feet and 10 inches long from snout to tail.

Breeden, who lives in a wooded area, later weighed the hog at a nearby farm. He said hes had encounters with supposed wild boars in the area before, but that he doesnt usually hunt them.

I believe it was a smart one that had been hanging out in the woods for a while, Breeden said.

Mike Dye, district wildlife biologist with the Virginia Dept. of Game & Inland Fisheries, said the creature could not be definitely identified at this point.

If it was a feral hog, it was being fed  a lot, he said. They typically do not have the resources to get that big in nature.

Feral swine are the same species as and often look very similar to domestic hogs, but are generally thinner with thicker hides of coarse bristly hair and longer tusk. The animals are called by many names including wild boar, wild hog, razorback, piney woods rooter, and Russian or Eurasian boar

The average feral hog in Virginia is typically much smaller with an average weight of around 200 pounds for adult males and slightly smaller for females, Dye said.

Larger feral hogs are somewhat uncommon as there is a high mortality rate as there is a lot of hunting pressure on this population, he said.

The beasts are classified as nuisance species in Virginia and can be killed or trapped at any time of the year with no bag limit. They are very destructive to agriculture and environmental resources, including streams and rivers where they like to hang out to cool off, Dye said.

He added that its uncommon for feral hogs to demonstrate aggressive behavior like charging someone as Breeden described, but that it has happened. The Dept. of Game & Inland Fisheries has worked for years with the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture to completely eradicate the species first brought to the country in the 1500s by early settlers as a source of food.

A tissue sample was taken for testing from the large Lignum pig, said Jeffrey Rumbaugh, staff wildlife biologist with the USDA office based in Moseley. The sample will be compared with a genetic archive to see if the creature is related to other feral swine from the area, he said.

Its unlikely that a feral hog in Culpeper would grow to be that large unless it had easy access to something other than acorns or whatever else it could find in the woods, Rumbaugh said.

Still, he said there had been no reports so far of humongous missing domestic hogs in the Lignum area. Rumbaugh said some feral pigs can show aggression, but its the exception and that they typically dont want to be seen and want to get away quickly when faced with human contact.

Feral swine, with their lack of natural predators, have been reported in at least 35 states, including Virginia, with a nationwide population estimated at more than 6 million, according to the USDA.

Efforts in Virginia and locally to eradicate the population through trapping and killing have been effective, Dye said. At one point, he estimated hundreds of feral hogs roaming Culpeper County, a figure he said is now likely below 100.

It is a heavily hunted population with the majority of mortality occurring through hunters, he said. In the next two to three years, they could be eradicated.

Rumbaugh said Culpeper was once considered a hot bed for feral pig activity in that online searches for where to hunt them would point hunters here. He added the statewide population is not what it was a decade ago.

Most people who hunt feral hogs do eat them, and they can taste pretty good, Dye said. However, there is a risk of contracting one of the estimated 30 diseases the pigs can carry, which can also negatively impact domestic livestock.

Breeden said hes not eating his recent kill, saying he was advised it was not safe to eat because the male's meat are loaded with testosterone.

If I was a sow, I could have enough sausage for the next few years! he said.

Both Dye and Rumbaugh said if genetic results confirm the beast was a feral hog, its the largest one theyve ever heard of. Citizens experiencing any kind of wildlife conflicts, including with feral hogs, can report it to the USDA at 1-855-571-9003.
Update: A customer service and billing company will open a location in the Linkhorne Drive shopping center building that formerly housed a Kroger grocery store, a move that could bring more than 600 jobs.

The city of Lynchburg announced Friday that Convergys Corporation will open its first Virginia location at 2820 Linkhorne Drive.

Its an absolutely awesome day for the Economic Development Authority and for everybody in the region and the city, Lynchburgs Economic Development Director Marjette Upshur said. People are taking notice of what a lot of us have known for a long time and that is that this is a great place to do business.

Work on the facility has been ongoing, and the company plans to begin hiring customer service representatives by the second quarter of this year, Upshur said. Wages will be approximately 160 percent of the minimum wage, or between $11 and $12 per hour.

Convergys contacted the Lynchburg Economic Development about the opportunity about three to four months ago. Lynchburgs planning commission declared the zoning appropriate for a call center in the fall of last year.

No job fair has been scheduled for interested applicants, according to Upshur. The jobs will be added over the course of 36 months.

The space will continue to be owned by Lynchburg Investment Co. Inc., which is doing all of the improvements to the building at a cost of more than $3 million, according to building permits filed with the city of Lynchburg.

Its really great that the owners of the building were willing to jump in there and do the upfit on the building, Upshur said. Because it used to be a grocery store, its a big box building, so it can be converted into a call center pretty quickly.

In 2016, the city expanded the Enterprise Zones, which provide tax credits to businesses to encourage development, to include the building. Through this, the owners of the building will be able to take advantage of several geographically centric economic development incentive programs such as the Enterprise Zone Job Creation Grant, the Virginia Job Investment Program and others depending on how much money is they invest in the building and how many jobs are created, Upshur said.

Turner Perrow, the city councilman who represents Ward IV, where the call center will be located, said he is very enthusiastic about the new company coming to the city.

I am very excited about the opportunity this presents, Perrow said. I was very worried about this shopping center and what it meant for that neighborhood to not have people coming though. I think its great for the businesses and the residents to not have a vacant building there any longer.

According to Upshur, the customer service-oriented workforce in Lynchburg left over from the departure of large companies like Nationwide Insurance early last year and Genworth Financial's downsizing factored into the decision for Cincinnati-based Convergys.

Its definitely a workforce decision, she said. You had Nationwide that had a customer service center, StarTek, J.Crew and Liberty Online here already. When some of these other strategic corporate changes are made, whats happened is that Lynchburg already has a reputation for a customer service workforce.

Lynchburg City Manager Bonnie Svrcek said she also is excited about the call center.

600 jobs coming to Lynchburg? Of course Im excited, she said.

Convergys Corporation could not be reached for comment.

Earlier: A customer service and billing company will open a location in the Linkhorne Drive shopping center that formerly housed a Kroger, a move that could bring more than 600 jobs here.

The City of Lynchburg announced this morning that Convergys Corporation will open its first Virginia location at 2820 Linkhorne Dr.

Work on the facility has been ongoing, and the company plans to begin hiring customer service representatives this summer.

We are excited to join the Lynchburg community, Krista M. Boyle, Vice President Corporate Communications at Convergys, said in a statement on the city's website. We look forward to sharing hiring and grand opening details in the coming months.

The jobs will be added over a period of 36 months, the city's announcement said.

The Kroger in that shopping center closed in March 2014.
The Prosecutor General's Office of Ukraine (PGO) has extended until March 28, 2017 a special pre-trial investigation against former Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych, lawyer of the fugitive president Vitaliy Serdiuk has said.

"The investigation authorities notified the defense that the investigation had been extended until March 28, 2017," he said on the air of 112.ua on Friday night.

The lawyer also said the adjusted notification of suspicion, which was not accepted by Yanukovych's lawyer on Friday, has to be handed over in the territory of the Russian Federation.

"Russia told the PGO that its request for legal assistance is under execution. The defense by all possible means is trying to speed up the execution of the request. Once the notification of suspicion is delivered, we'll sign it," Serdiuk said.

Earlier, on January 27 prosecutor of the Chief Military Prosecutor's Office Ruslan Kravchenko said the PGO would pass the adjusted suspicion of treason to the defense of ex-president Viktor Yanukovych.

Prosecutor General Yuriy Lutsenko said the Prosecutor General's Office plans to complete the pre-trial investigation into criminal proceedings on the treason of Yanukovych in February 2017.
OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Jan. 27, 2017) -

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

Stria Lithium Inc. (TSX VENTURE:SRA) ("Stria" or the "Company") announces the closing of a non-brokered private placement (the "Offering") for gross proceeds of $444,000. The Company has issued 8,880,000 units (the "Units") at a price of $0.05 per Unit. Each Unit is comprised of one (1) common share and one common share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles its holder to purchase one (1) common share at a price of $0.05 per common share until January 27, 2022. Additionally, following the expiry of the regulatory hold period, should the closing price of Stria's common shares on the TSX Venture Exchange be equal to or higher than $0.15 for 10 consecutive trading days, the Company shall have the right to force the exercise of the warrants by providing the warrant holders with a 30-day notice period, following which the warrants will automatically expire.

In connection with the closing of the Offering, the Company paid cash finder's fees totaling $32,000 and issued 640,000 non-transferable warrants, each warrant entitling the holder to acquire one (1) common share of the Company at a price of $0.05 per common share until January 27, 2022.

The securities issued in connection with the closing the Offering are subject to a four-month hold period expiring on May 28, 2017. The Offering is subject to the final approval of the TSX Venture Exchange.

About Stria Lithium Inc.

Stria is a Canadian junior mining exploration company with an expanding technology focus and is the sole owner of the Pontax spodumene lithium property in Northern Quebec. Stria's mission is to be a reliable, profitable global source for both lithium metal and lithium compound products and process technologies for producing value added lithium products.

Stria's expanded business focus is on the application of in-house developed technologies and processes that lead to the production and milling of lithium metal and lithium metal foil for advanced lithium batteries.

From the production of lithium metal also comes the value added production of: lithium hydroxide; lithium carbonate; lithium fluoride; and lithium chloride.

Lithium is a critical metal in the universal fight against global warming. It is a core component of Lithium-Ion batteries used for powering electric vehicles and for industrial scale energy storage.

Stria is part of the 2GL Platform green energy technology strategy alliance with Grafoid Inc., Focus Graphite Inc. and Braille Battery Inc.

Forward-Looking Statement

This news release may contain forward-looking statements, being statements that are not historical facts, and discussions of future plans and objectives. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove accurate. Such statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and future events to differ materially from those anticipated or projected. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations are in our documents filed from time to time with the TSX Venture Exchange and provincial securities regulators, most of which are available at 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 accuracy or adequacy of this release.
OTTAWA, Jan. 27, 2017 /CNW/ - Northern Shield Resources Inc. ("Northern Shield" or the "Company") [TSXV: NRN] is pleased to announce it recently staked a new property, containing 88 claims, in the Labrador Trough. The Company will primarily explore the new property for Ni-Cu-PGE mineralization.

In conjunction with the Company's main exploration programs in the region, a ground reconnaissance program will be undertaken on these new claims as soon as conditions allow. The Company's main exploration programs currently include further exploration at Huckleberry - funded under the terms of the South32 Option and Joint Venture Agreement (as per press release dated December 5, 2016), an intensive rock and till sampling program at Se2 to prioritize VTEM targets for later drilling, as well as ground truthing of a VTEM anomaly at Idefix.

"The assay results from Sequoi are disappointing for us all; however, the presence of certain lithologies in one of the drill-holes directed us to stake this new claim block," says Northern Shield President and CEO, Ian Bliss. "We look forward to another active and exciting season as we aim to locate the source of the nickel and copper so prevalent in the nearby lake bottom sediment samples."

Northern Shield Resources Inc. is a Canadian-based company focused on exploring for platinum group element ("PGE") and nickel-copper-PGE deposits. The Company's management are known as leaders in grassroots exploration for Ni-Cu-PGEs, as well as their understanding of the magmatic systems that apply to such exploration.

Forward-Looking Statements Advisory

This news release contains statements concerning the exploration plans, results and potential mineralization at the Company's Sequoi property, geological and geometrical analyses of the Sequoi property and the drill core and assay results from the recently completed drill program at Sequoi and comparisons of the property and its potential mineralization to known mineral deposits, and other exploration and drilling plans, goals, objectives, assumptions, information or statements about future events conditions, results of exploration or performance that may constitute forward-looking statements or information under applicable securities legislation. Such forward-looking statements or information are based on a number of assumptions, which may prove to be incorrect.

Although Northern Shield believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements or information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on forward looking statements because Northern Shield can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements or information are based on current expectations, estimates and projections that involve a number of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by Northern Shield and described in the forward looking statements or information. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, risks associated with geological, geometrical and geophysical interpretation and analysis, the ability of Northern Shield to obtain financing, equipment, supplies and qualified personnel necessary to carry on exploration and the general risks and uncertainties involved in mineral exploration and analysis.

The forward-looking statements or information contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof and Northern Shield undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws

Neither the 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.

SOURCE Northern Shield Resources Inc.
Mexico's President Enrique Pena Nieto and his US counterpart Donald Trump on Friday agreed to keep a bitter and ongoing dispute over a border wall project out of the public realm, the office of the presidency said.

The two "spoke for an hour by telephone," a day after Pena Nieto cancelled a meeting with Trump that was to take place on Tuesday.

Pena Nieto cancelled the visit after Trump tweeted there was no point in meeting if Mexico was not prepared to pay for a wall along the US' southern border.

In a statement, the presidency said, "in regard to paying for the border wall, both presidents acknowledged their clear and very public positions on such a sensitive issue, and agreed to resolve these differences as part of a comprehensive discussion on all aspects of the bilateral relationship."

Both "also agreed to not talk about this controversial matter in public for now."

Pena Nieto and Trump have instructed their teams "to continue to dialogue to strengthen this important strategic and economic relationship in a constructive way," his office added.

The leaders had a "constructive and productive conversation" on bilateral ties, "including the US' trade deficit with Mexico, the importance of the friendship between our two nations, the need for our countries to work together to stop drug trafficking and the illegal flow of arms," the office said.

Surprisingly, no mention was made of illegal immigration from Latin America, especially Mexico, to the US.

Trump has said the wall is needed to keep out illegal migrants, as well as prevent trafficking.

The call was "arranged by their work teams," the office said.
IRVING  Conference USA's Let's SAAC Hunger" program, the league's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) conference-wide fall community service initiative, amassed a total of 52,713 pounds, which equates to more than 45,000 meals, this year. Nine C-USA schools, led by North Texas, gathered more than 1,000 pounds of donations during their respective drive week. UTSA finished third behind Charlotte.



Each C-USA school worked within its respective community to conduct a campus-wide canned food drive for one week during the fall semester. The league also partnered with YouGiveGoods, a for-profit company that facilitates online food drives. This partnership allowed student-athletes to reach a much larger audience, encouraging all student groups and alumni to participate. Each institution selected a local food bank to receive its donations.



North Texas collected 16,930 pounds of food, improving on its total of 16,797 pounds a year ago, for the Denton Community Food Center. Charlotte raised the second-highest total with more than 7,000 pounds of food distributed to the Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina Inc., while UTSA placed third and donated three-and-a-half tons of food to the San Antonio Food Bank. For the second year in a row, UAB posted the best online collection of 782 pounds, a more than 40 percent increase in food for the Community Food Bank of Central Alabama.



"Once again, Conference USA supporters all over the country were able to contribute to this worthy cause through our free online giving service," said Michelle Seideneck, Manager of Strategic Partnerships at YouGiveGoods. "SAAC teams ran a friendly competition online, tracked their results live, measured the digital impact they made and together raised 2,928 pounds of food online for their local food banks. The online shopping link helped to enhance their overall contributions - congratulations to UAB for winning the challenge by raising 782 pounds of food online! Special thanks to every SAAC Team for all of their hard work."



Donations were also made to Boca Helping Hands Inc., Miami Rescue Mission Inc., Christian Community Action, Marshall University Food Pantry, MTSA Student Food Pantry, Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia, Houston Food Bank, Christian Services, El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank, WKU Food Pantry and Irving Cares.



The C-USA SAAC was formed in 1998. Its committee consists of 28 members (two from each of the circuit's 14 institutions) with one member serving as chair, two members as vice chair and a secretary that all oversee an external affairs working group, a top issues working group and a student-athlete health and safety committee.



The C-USA SAAC meets four times per year by phone and also holds one in-person meeting each summer.


The big game

Middle ground?

Secure connectivity is a mainstay of the smart city.

is a mainstay of the smart city. Platforms and applications may drive data use in traffic, public safety, cyber or other areas.

may drive data use in traffic, public safety, cyber or other areas. Vertical integrated solutions address specific niche needs, whether in traffic, civic Wi-Fi, lighting or other areas.

address specific niche needs, whether in traffic, civic Wi-Fi, lighting or other areas. Alliances are key. In smart cities no one company does it all, Zeto said. It is an ecosystem play, and you need to bring together the right partners to add value.

A year ago AT&T launched its smart cities framework, bundling together a range of products and services in support of technology leaders looking to build connected cities.Since then the company has signed on a number of cities to a range of projects. The roster includes Atlanta; Chapel Hill, N.C.; Chicago; Dallas; the Georgia Institute of Technology; Miami-Dade County, Fla.; and Montgomery County, Md. Their projects encompass diverse areas including water sustainability, smart lighting and civic connectivity.A year into the effort, AT&Ts lead smart-city executive said a clear lesson has emerged: If youre thinking smart city, its best to think big.We have seen all these requests for proposals being issued in silos  something specific to intelligent LED lighting or to autonomous vehicle demonstrations or to water meters, said Mike Zeto, general manager and executive director of AT&T Smart Cities. We think cities need to develop more holistic strategies.When cities take a piecemeal approach to smart enhancements, the risk is that you may get just that one implementation, and that is all, Zeto said. A truly holistic strategy works with all the departments, with the public and the private sectors and the universities. That way you get to tap more funding models, you get more partners and you add more value to the citizens.AT&Ts think-big approach urges cities to take on three to five smart city projects at a time in order to build momentum and leverage relationships across government.The companys yearlong foray into smart cities has generated an extensive roster of implementations.Miami-Dade County implemented AT&Ts Smart Cities Operation Center , a platform designed to give civic leaders visibility into the community. It also has undertaken public safety upgrades, put in place new decision-making tools around transportation, and rolled out smart LED lighting. In addition, the city has expanded Wi-Fi availability in the schools as part of its efforts.In Atlanta, city leaders are testing a range of technologies along the Avenue corridor, which borders the Georgia Tech campus, where Mayor Kasim Reed said he's looking for ways to enhance availability of real-time data to improve residents lives. The city also is working with GE and Georgia Power to deploy intelligent LED lighting solutions.In Chicago, transit has been a key area of interest. AT&T has helped implement civic tech in the form of smart digital transportation boards in Chicago O'Hare International Airport, to aid travelers with their ground transportation planning. At the same time, select bus shelters have been outfitted with free Wi-Fi, intelligent lighting and digital displays.The breadth of these examples helps to bear out Zetos call for smart initiatives that take a wide approach to city issues. Still, some might see this as a break from the norm. In recent years, many cities have in fact been looking to scale down the scope of their smart initiatives.A decade ago, it was about everything being interconnected and intelligent, Forrester principal analyst Jennifer Belissent toldin June. Everything would be sensor enabled, there would be data generated by everything around the city and that would make everything smart.That sweeping agenda has been rolled back. Many government technology leaders now say that cities would do best to initiate narrow, tightly focused efforts to enhance civic tech. Rather than re-envision the urban landscape in its entirely, cash-strapped cities have opted to take small steps, scoring clear wins on discreet projects with an eye toward building something bigger over time.Some observers see AT&Ts approach over the past year as reflecting a kind of middle ground. The company has the muscle to bring multiple partners and diverse technologies to the table, so it can take a broad approach, encouraging government tech leaders to pursue the big picture, while still helping cities to deliver on specific end goals.They are talking holistic, but three to five solutions still seems like a small, piecemeal solution, said IDC Analyst Ruthbea Yesner Clarke. We see a number of bigger vendors doing this: providing a common layer, then delivering one or two projects and hoping it will scale.She pointed to IBM and Verizon as examples of similar platform-based smart city efforts.It may be a matter of semantics: Three or four projects in a given city may represent a holistic embrace, or they may be just a coincidence of isolated projects. To Yesner Clarke, a true big-picture approach isnt defined by the number of projects, but by how they intersect.When you have a video camera with a data feed that goes to multiple departments for multiple uses, that is a citywide solution. I dont think that is happening yet, she said.AT&Ts approach may point in that direction, as it aims to integrate activity in four key areas:A holistic approach implies working all these various aspects simultaneously toward a single vision of connectedness. If that seems like a big bite to try to take, Zeto said, the key to success lies in getting as many players as possible to the table right from the start.A lot of this isnt about the pilots or the deployments. Its about making sure your local ecosystem is engaged, past just city government, he said. Local economic development groups, universities and civic organizations all should be part of the conversation, ideally in the form of a smart city committee. He pointed for example to Smart Columbus , a group that has garnered tens of millions of dollars in backing through its coordinated efforts.To go beyond the piecemeal approach it also helps to have a champion, a director of smart cities who answers to the CIO. You need one person who has the responsibility for directing and managing this, he said.
(TNS) -- One-minute earthquake warnings, flood prediction 15 days in advance, and public development projects that incorporate social media feedback are on the horizon for cities, and not a far horizon, according to Jack Dangermond.Dangermond, president of Esri, addressed urban planners from across the United States gathered in Redlands on Wednesday for the tech companys annual Geodesign Summit.The summit is based on the premise that planning practices rooted in the twentieth century may no longer be adequate to build smart, liveable communities.Attendees looked at ways cities such as built-out San Francisco are using Esri technology to find room for growth and Los Angeles County assesses need for parks.Esri is a geographic information systems company whose cloud-based platform, ArcGIS, combines maps and data for analysis. The proliferation of big data, computers and social media is turning GIS into what Dangermond called a system of systems.Well have all the data we need. Well have all the computer power we need, well have all the big data computing power. Well have advanced visualizations. Well have the reach to every citizen on the planet. All of that is converging into this thing, the platform that we call GIS. And its happening everywhere.Dangermond was speaking a day after returning from a trip to India, where he said even villagers are more engaged with digital technology than many Americans.The Inland Empire has been identified as a place in danger of being left behind by the digital revolution because many of its residents lack access to broadband.Dangermond envisioned cities, counties, states the federal government and private initiatives sharing data.I think it will just take off and grow like the Internet did.Pointing to a visual aid projected on the wall behind him, he added, Along the bottom of the slide here I said this is going to create a nervous system for the planet. Its a little presumptuous, but it sounds good.
The storied election of Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper over incumbent Republican Pat McCrory signaled a nearly inevitable change for North Carolina CIO Keith Werner. The once deputy CIO turned CIO in December of 2015 was asked on Jan. 25 to step aside after assisting the new administration with its transition.Though Werner was asked to step down, the former CIO toldthat the opportunity to aid in the transition of power was one he deeply appreciated. The public-sector champion said that while it will be difficult to transition out of state service and away from his team, there are potential private-sector opportunities for him on the horizon.It was a wonderful opportunity and one that I am always going to be grateful to Gov. McCrory and Chris Estes , the previous CIO, for, he said. Ive learned so much in the position, but the thing that  I am most proud of is the people  incredible staff, incredible leadership team  with the purpose of mission and really a civic responsibility to not only the citizens but to our agency customers. I am very, very proud of the people first and foremost.Prior to his tenure in North Carolina government, Werners career spanned more than two decades working closely to support government as a private-industry player. Though his official employment with the state closed with the end of the business day Jan. 26, Werner said he may have another opportunity to pursue in the very near term.During his time with the state, the CIO and his team made headway in consolidating resources, developing a feasible but forward-looking strategic plan, tackling issues like rate reform and streamlining procurement processes.As reported in August 2016, Werner and the department focused their energies on the building a more cohesive IT structure throughout the state with the OneIT initiative, and they also worked to bolster stronger relationships both internally and externally.As for what he sees as the challenges facing the next CIO, Werner said it completely depends on where they are coming from.I think its going to largely depend on whether they are bringing somebody in from the outside, or they are bringing somebody in from internal state government, he said. Coming from [an external source], it would be understanding the legislative process, understanding the budgeting process, understanding the number of stakeholders involved in the decisions that are made and how to execute within all of those constraints. That would be a challenge.For someone who is familiar with the state and how to get things done, however? "I think its really getting to know the people," he said, "its getting to know what strategies are in place, what reform efforts are in place and empowering that wonderful staff there to get things done.With the administrative transition and departure now in his rearview mirror, Werner was asked to weigh in on the benefits or pitfalls of linking partisan politics to the CIO role. While he said he was grateful to the new administration for allowing him to assist with the handoff of IT leadership, he acknowledged that there are some downsides to the way things are done in the C-suite spot.From the perspective that state ITs ultimate goal is to empower the government business operations, Werner said he would like to see more continuity in the overall position.To answer your questions specifically, I dont think it is a political role. I think there are some policies in place that are guided and steered through the Department of Information Technology and the state CIOs role, but I still dont believe the position should be a partisan position, he said. Seeing those strategies and those reform efforts through long-term, I think, is critical and I think its in the best interest of the state. I still think we have a long way to go politically to get there  but that is a lot of turnover and a lot of disruption in a department that I dont think is needed.Werner also noted that he will continue to be a fan of his state government colleagues from afar.
Providing broadband service to rural communities is at the center of a legislative effort announced by Gov. Bill Haslam Jan. 26. The plan comes just days before Haslams State of the State address and at a time when approximately 34 percent of states rural communities are without broadband service that meets the recognized minimum connectivity standards.

Under the terms of the Tennessee Broadband Accessibility Act, approximately $45 million in grants and tax credits would be made available to service providers over the course of the next three years, while loosening the restrictive frameworks around Internet service in the state.

Of the funds, $30 million would be allotted for deployment of service in underserved areas, while the remaining $15 million would go toward the tax credits for service providers for the purchase of broadband equipment.

Some of the most difficult challenges are facing our rural areas. Our rural areas have a lot of opportunities to succeed, and they can do that through technology, he said during a press conference at Cane Ridge High School Thursday.

Haslam said the broadband legislation will focus on three key areas: deregulation, education and investment. As it stands, nonprofit electric cooperatives are restricted from providing retail broadband service. The governor said the uniquely situated cooperatives pose an opportunity for better access to affordable service.

The plan will lift current restrictions and permit Tennessees private, nonprofit electric cooperatives to provide retail broadband service, he explained.

On the education front, the governor explained the legislation would provide additional funding resources to public libraries for digital literacy education.

We know that providing accessibility without people taking advantage of that will accomplish very little, so the plan will provide grant funding opportunities to our local libraries to help our residents improve their digital literacy skills and learn about the benefits of broadband, Haslam said.

Sen. Mark Norris, R-Collierville, also joined in the Thursday announcement and said the idea behind the legislation centers on improved Internet services for rural communities, and not bigger government. He said officials are focused on what better connections will mean for employment, education, economic development and law enforcement.

Better access to broadband is going to address each and every one of those areas that are of such great importance to us, he said.

Despite the investment in rural networks, Haslam said there is no guarantee the plan will completely alleviate connection disparities in the state. He told reporters at the announcement that any successes would need to be measured at the end of the three-year period.
Only ten teams will make it to the grid as the 2017 season begins in Australia in March.

There were hopes the backmarker Manor could exit administration if a buyer was found before the end of January, as funds to test in Spain next month and race in Melbourne had dried up.

But administrator FRP on Friday announced that the team's operating company will now close.

"It is deeply regrettable that the team has had to cease trading and close its doors," said administrator Geoff Rowley.

As team staff faced the prospect of immediate redundancy, a photo appeared on social media of the wind tunnel model of Manor's unraced 2017 car.

Rowley said: "The administration process provided a moratorium to allow for attempts to secure a long term viable solution for the team within a very limited time-frame, but sadly no solution could be achieved to allow for the business to continue in its current form."

(GMM)
(Xinhua) 13:24, January 28, 2017

U.S. President Donald Trump and British Prime Minister Theresa May hold a joint press conference at the White House in Washington D.C., the United States, Jan. 27, 2017. U.S. President Donald Trump said Friday that it is "very early" to talk about lifting sanctions on Russia in relation to the Ukraine crisis. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu)

U.S. President Donald Trump is "100 percent" behind NATO, British Prime Minister Theresa May said Friday as she paid a visit to the United States.

"On defense and security cooperation, we are united in our recognition of NATO as the bulwark of our collective defense, and today we've reaffirmed our unshakable commitment to this alliance," May said at a joint press conference following a meeting with Trump.

"Mr. President, I think you said, you confirmed that you're 100 percent behind NATO," she added.

In a recent interview, Trump said NATO was "obsolete because it was not taking care of terror," and he complained that various members of the bloc were not paying their dues, which was "very unfair to the United States."

However, Trump added that NATO was very important to him.

May is the first foreign leader to hold face-to-face talks with Trump after he was inaugurated a week as the new U.S. President.

At the press conference on Friday, May said she will ensure that other European leaders follow through on their commitments to NATO.

"We're also discussing the importance of NATO continuing to ensure it is as equipped to fight terrorism and cyber warfare as it is to fight more conventional forms of war," May said.

The British leader added that she will also continue to encourage other European leaders to deliver on their commitments to spend 2 percent of their country's GDP on defense "so that the burden is more fairly shared."
(Xinhua) 13:56, January 28, 2017

At a red carpet roll-out event here Friday for the upcoming 23rd Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards ceremony, Hollywood stars expressed their excitement over the Chinese Year of the Rooster.

"I want to wish all of you happy Chinese New Year, the Year of the Rooster, woo-hoo!" Hollywood star Missi Pyle, who was nominated by the SAG for her performance in the motion picture "Captain Fantastic," told Xinhua.

Marcus Scribner, a nominee for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series for "Black-ish," told Xinhua that he knew this Friday was the eve of the Chinese New Year.

"Happy Chinese New Year," he said with a big smile.

"Happy New Year, the Year of the Rooster," Kathy Connell, executive producer of the SAG Awards, told Xinhua reporters Friday morning.

Other Hollywood stars, including Jean-Claude Van Damme, Ellen DeGeneres, Gal Gadot and Chris Pine, also posted their Chinese New Year greetings on social media.

The SAG Awards ceremony is scheduled to be held on Sunday at Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles.
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Baku, Azerbaijan, Jan. 28

Trend:

Permanent Mission of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the OSCE, proceeding from its legitimate concerns, protested against the demining-related activities carried out by the OSCE Office in Yerevan over last years, Azerbaijans Foreign Ministry said in a message Jan. 28.

Majority of the OSCE interlocutors during consultations identified the demining-related activities of the Office as clear violations of the mandate. The Yerevan Office cannot be involved in any activities related to the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan, including to process of settlement of the conflict, as this interferes with the responsibilities of the OSCE Minsk Group. Therefore, the Permanent Mission of Azerbaijan requested taking adequate measures to bring the activities of the OSCE Office in Yerevan in line with its mandate.

In response to the legitimate concerns of the Azerbaijani side, on December 31, 2016, Armenia, following its regular habit of hostage taking, blocked, with no argument, extension of relevant mandates of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, OSCE Centre in Bishkek, OSCE Observers to two Russian Checkpoints on the Russian-Ukrainian Border as well as Decision on the revision of the 2016 OSCE Unified Budget.

Such a blackmailing by Armenia made these critically important OSCE Missions dysfunctional, contingent upon its whims and about to close.

Only today, that, after the Foreign Minister Nalbandyan was called to Vienna for urgent consultations with the OSCE Chairmanship and Secretary General, the Armenian side was forced to withdraw its unsubstantiated block over relevant decisions.

Yet, Armenia continues its blackmailing policy to impose its position on OSCE with a view to misuse the Office in Yerevan, as the host country. Consequently, violations of mandate by the OSCE Office in Yerevan remain unaddressed and its operational activities had been suspended.

Azerbaijans position remains constructive and principled based on the apparent necessity to ensure that activities of the Yerevan Office are transparent and accountable to OSCE and conducted in line with the mandate. The Permanent Mission expresses its hope that the OSCE will overcome yet another challenge by Armenia in solidarity and unity without compromising its principles, shared values and commitments.
A few white students stood with the young African-Americans who made history outside Woolworths segregated lunch counter.

But only one of them was about to graduate as a Bennett Belle.

Mary Ellen Bender was a senior on Feb. 1, 1960, the day four N.C. A&T students first sat down at the lunch counter of the Greensboro store and refused to leave until they were served.

Their protest continued, and participation grew. The original four  David Richmond, Franklin McCain, Joseph McNeil and Ezell Blair Jr. (now Jibreel Khazan)  were joined by students from Dudley High School, North Carolina A&T State University and Womans College (now UNC-Greensboro) as well as from Bennett College, traditionally a school for black women.

Bender knew she wanted to take part in the protest with other Bennett Belles.

I was there on my campus, she says, and they were my friends and they were fighting for their rights.

I wanted to stand up with them.

But she first got permission from Bennetts president, Willa Player.

Bender likely would be the first white woman to graduate from Bennett, and she feared that if she took part in the protest, it would cause problems for the school.

Player told her, as she had told others, Go ahead. Whatever happens will happen.

When Bender joined protesters in the picket line, The hecklers would go after me in particular because I was white and picketing with black people.

She says she has put most of the ugliness surrounding the protest behind her. But she hasnt forgotten the heckler who put a lit cigarette into her jacket pocket.

And Bender remembers being arrested while taking a turn sitting at the lunch counter. She and the other students were fingerprinted and released, she says.

Then in the week of her graduation, with her parents in town for the ceremony, she went to court.

We were represented by the NAACP, Bender recalls, and we were acquitted.

F.W. Woolworth integrated its lunch counter that July, and Bender went on take part in a short-term home missionary program for the Methodist church.

She had been placed in a predominantly white community in the South but was rejected because of her part in the sit-ins, she says. So she went on to a black neighborhood and a good experience in Nashville.

The sit-ins were historic, but Bender says she was affected most by just being at Bennett.

She came to the school as a junior at Ohio Wesleyan University for a semester-long exchange program. There had been other white exchange students at Bennett  one from Pennsylvania took part in the sit-ins  but Bender was the first to decide to stay.

She says that she grew up in New Jersey, so the notion of being a Bennett Belle  required to wear white gloves and a hat  took some getting used to.

Her mother was involved in civil rights through her work with the Methodist Church womens society. But growing up, Bender hadnt really known many black people.

She made friends at the school  some, like author and educator Linda Brown, remain close to this day. Being with black students and getting to know them was a really eye-opening experience, she says.

I felt a commitment to stay.

She also felt a commitment to serve and built a career in social work and counseling. She was a local pastor in the United Methodist Church for 17 years, and now she lives in Pinehurst with a counseling practice in Southern Pines.

Bennett  the close-knit school that valued activism along with ladylike behavior  had changed her life.
In the African American Historical Museum at the Smithsonian, there are two stools from the Woolworths lunch counter in Greensboro.

When history finds you, rather than the other way around, you cant easily say no. That was what happened to us at Bennett College in 1960. Change had been brewing in small segments all over America. A critical tipping point occurred when enough people said enough to segregation, and that was when history found us at Bennett College.

We had been taught that freedom could be achieved by oppressed people, if enough individuals came together to demand their rights. So in 1959, meetings of the student chapter of the NAACP on our campus inspired us, and we were joined by a few young men from North Carolina A&T State University. There had been many starts and fits of a nonviolent movement before 1960. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. had led the Montgomery Bus Boycott in 1957 and had come to Bennett to speak in 1958. The winds of change were blowing.

We had no idea how powerful would be the image of students bold enough to sit down at the Woolworths counter and demand service. But at that moment, enough was enough.

In the fall of 1959, we decided to move forward after Christmas. The students who became known as the Greensboro Four were part of the planning at Bennett. They chose to go ahead on Feb. 1, 1960, and the rest is history. Bennett women joined them the next day.

The third day of the sit-ins, I got into a car with a few of my classmates from Bennett. We were headed to downtown Greensboro to sit-in at the lunch counter and to picket in front of Woolworths and Kress. Yes, we were nervous and we had no idea what would happen, but I had been raised by parents who understood and participated in the African-American struggle for freedom, and there was no hesitation on my part. Many other students from Bennett, A&T, and Dudley High School joined the movement. Demonstrations continued throughout the spring and summer in spite of threats of violence.

It was July 26, 1960, when Woolworths at last integrated. History had found us. We could not have imagined that those seats we sat on would end up in the Smithsonian!
GREENSBORO  Police raided eight sweepstakes businesses in December and January, resulting in seven people being charged with related offenses.

Detectives with the Greensboro Police Departments vice and narcotics division conducted a round of raids on Dec. 6, going to five sweepstakes businesses. On Jan. 12, they went to a sixth business. The operation was conducted after undercover work by the detectives, police spokeswoman Susan Danielsen said.

In all, nearly $48,500 was seized from the businesses, as well as 317 computer towers and 37 computer consoles, police said.

Since November 2014, it has been illegal in North Carolina to conduct or promote sweepstakes businesses. Greensboro began enforcing the statute in March 2015.

The seven people are charged with operating five or more server-based electronic video gaming machines and possessing five or more video gaming machines with a display that simulates a game ordinarily played on a machine for the purpose of promoting, operating or conducting a server-based electronic game promotion.

Charges and businesses are:

Barry Thomas Cummings, 60, of Winston-Salem. Business name unknown, at 2896-D Randleman Road.

Police

seized $2,294, 14 computer towers and seven stand-up consoles.

Ryan McQuade Strickland, 34, of Jacksonville Beach, Fla.; Skillville at 2804 Randleman Road and King of the Skill at 1518 Woodmere Drive. Police seized a combined $16,027, 88 computer towers and 12 stand-up consoles.

Kevin Clinton, 42, of 5 Donlora Court; Off the Hook at 3806 W. Gate City Blvd. Police seized $4,356 and 41 computer towers.

Frederick J. Wooden, 31, of Martinsville, Va.; Outlet at 2910 Randleman Road and Southern Skillz at 2912 Randleman Road. Police seized a combined $9,960, 88 computer towers and 10 stand-up consoles.

Leon Lawrence Lineberry III, 39, of Raleigh; Vape-X at 1708 Stanley Road. Police seized $1,498, 26 computer towers and eight stand-up consoles.

Hyun Jun Lim and Young Hoon Lim, of 1923 Fleming Road; Skill Shot at 4718 W. Market St. Police seized $14,323 and 60 computer towers.

Police said all but two of the people charged are the business owners. Clinton and Lineberry are managers of Off the Hook and Vape-X, respectively.

Each owner was charged with one count for each business owned.

The seized property is being held by police as evidence, Danielsen said. The businesses listed are now closed.

Although search warrants were conducted at the businesses on Dec. 6 and Jan. 12, not everyone was charged until Jan. 19 because not everyone lived in the area, Danielsen said.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Jan. 28

Trend:

Over the past 24 hours, Armenias armed forces have 8 times violated the ceasefire in various directions along the line of contact between Azerbaijani and Armenian troops, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry told Trend Jan. 28.

The Armenian army was using large-caliber machine guns.

The Azerbaijani army positions located in the Gizilhajili village of Azerbaijans Gazakh district underwent fire from the Armenian army positions located in the Berkaber village of the Ijevan district of Armenia.

The Azerbaijani army positions located in the Alibayli village of Azerbaijans Tovuz district were shelled from the Armenian army positions located in the Aygepar village of the Berd district of Armenia.

Moreover, the Azerbaijani army positions were shelled from the Armenian positions located on nameless heights of the Goranboy, Tartar and Jabrayil districts.

The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts.

The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts.
GREENSBORO  Theres a rift in the former first family of local auto sales:

Robert Bob Dunn Sr. has sued Robert Bobby Dunn Jr. for fraud.

In the suit, filed this week in N.C. Business Court, the father accuses his son of taking more than $1 million from Bob Dunn Hyundai from 2013 to 2015.

Bob Dunn also says Bobby Dunn falsified company records and failed to pay $457,000 in state and federal taxes.

Bobby Dunn bounced so many checks, the lawsuit says, the company spent $5,000 a month on insufficient fund fees alone.

The suit demands more than $4.27 million in damages. It also asks the court to put Bobby Dunns assets in a trust so Bob Dunn and Bob Dunn Hyundai can recover their losses.

Raleigh-based Capital Automotive Group bought Bob Dunn Subaru-Hyundai in February 2016  a sale Bob Dunn says in the suit he was forced to make quickly by creditors.

If it werent for Bobbys actions and failures to act, the lawsuit says, it is believed that (Bob Dunn Hyundai) would have continued as a business entity and would have had a fair value in excess of what it was sold for.

Darren McDonough of Ivey McClellan Gaton and Siegmund, an attorney for Bob Dunn and Bob Dunn Hyundai, didnt respond to an email and a phone message Friday.

Bobby Dunn hasnt filed a response to the suit. Its unclear who his attorney is. On Friday, he said in a text he was busy and unable to answer questions. He didnt respond to a follow-up text asking for the name of his lawyer.

Bob Dunn and, later, Bobby Dunn gained wide-spread notoriety in the Triad for their colorful TV commerials for Fords, Subarus, Hondas and Hyundais.

They always ended with the catchphrase Were dealin.

The Dunn Automotive Group at one time owned dealerships in Raleigh, Boone and Greensboro. In 2000, Bob Dunn started to transition away from running the company and into retirement in Florida, where he continues to live.

Bobby Dunn was vice president from 1998 to 2002, when he took over for his father as president and chief operating officer.

He owned 25 percent of the business, and his father owned the rest.

Bob Dunn said Bobby Dunns monthly financial reports were his only means of financial oversight, the suit says.

Unfortunately from 2013 to 2015, (Bob) Dunn had health issues that prohibited his ability to review the financial reports Bobby provided, the suit says.

It was not until mid-2015, when his health returned, that (Bob) Dunn was able to review these reports.

Bob Dunn and Bob Dunn Hyundais 20-page suit chronicles a litany of complaints against Bobby Dunn.

Fraud. Falsifying revenues. Defaulting on debt.

Bob Dunn says his son:

Spent more than $1 million in company money on himself. These improper and wrongful withdrawals and payments were done on a continuous basis  every month, with multiple withdrawals or payments occurring each month, the suit says. The suit says he used some of the money on mortgages, home renovations and legal fees.

Failed to pay $457,000 to the state and federal governments for payroll and withholding taxes.

Bounced $290,000 in checks to vehicle exchanges and failed to pay another $190,000 for costs related to vehicle sales and purchase.

Kept as much as $119,000 in cash at the dealership, using it to pay for services at his home and making loans to third parties.

Falsified company records. For example, it says, he listed a $1 million loan to Bob Dunn Hyundai from a sister company as revenue or increased inventory, misleading lenders and taxing authorities.

Inflated the companys inventory. The most egregious example was the listing of a vehicles value at $1 million, the suit says.

Eliminated the position of chief financial officer to better perpetrate his fraudulent schemes. That kept the companys lenders from identifying inaccurate financial statements and records, the suit says.

The suit says Bob Dunn has since paid off the Internal Revenue Service, the state Department of Revenue, the DMV and various car exchanges and liens.

But to close on the sale of Bob Dunn Hyundai to Capital Automotive Group, he had to loan the company an additional $455,000.

Bob Dunn and the company have made repeated demands of Bobby Dunn to repay the $1 million he took from the company, the suit says.

He has refused and continues to refuse to pay the amount due, it says.
GREENSBORO  Doha Altaki is a Syrian refugee who has lived here just six months. But it wasnt her choice to leave, she told a group of immigrants and supporters gathered Friday afternoon at Phill G. McDonald Plaza.

Many people are killed in Syria, Altaki said. Everything is destroyed in Syria. We have a beautiful country, like your country.

She said she wants to share her experiences with other people and live in peace with them.

She was one of several people on Friday who spoke about why they are against President Donald Trumps immigration policies.

This week, Trump signed executive orders authorizing construction of a border wall, increasing the number of immigration agents assigned to handle deportations and expanding the number of Border Patrol agents.

Trump also directed the State Department to stop issuing visas to Syrian nationals and halted the processing of Syrian refugees. That will remain in effect until Trump determines that enough changes have been made to make sure that would-be terrorists cant exploit weaknesses in the current vetting system.

Those policies prompted a protest and march downtown Thursday night that attracted about 500 people.

At Fridays gathering, a much smaller group of immigrants and their advocates again reiterated those concerns.

Jeremy McKinney, a Greensboro immigration lawyer, said Friday that according to most estimates, 10 million to 11 million people are living in America illegally.

He said that in recent history, annual deportations range anywhere from 300,000 to 420,000 people. McKinney said that shows that the country cant fix its immigration issues by deporting everyone.

When Mayor Nancy Barakat Vaughan introduced herself, she emphasized her maiden name, saying she is a third-generation Syrian.

I dont know anybody in Syria, but I know that I have family there and when I see the pictures of detention centers and whats going on in that country, my heart breaks on a regular basis, Vaughan said. And we have people who are fleeing terrorism. They are not terrorists.

Alan Duncan, the chairman of the Guilford County Board of Education, said he had received what he called informal reports that immigrant families are keeping their children home from school out of fear.

Duncan reminded the group that the law prohibits schools from asking whether a student is undocumented.

Rather, its our duty and obligation to serve and provide the best possible education we can to every single student that we have, he said.

Ivan Canada, the executive director of the National Conference for Community and Justice of the Piedmont Triad, said its important that people treat their neighbors fairly.

When we talk about implementing policies that will discriminate based on ethnicity and religion, he said, we must remember that were talking about people.
Today, Jan. 27, is International Holocaust Remembrance Day. This day was chosen because it is the anniversary of the liberation of the horrendous and unparalleled death camp Auschwitz in 1945. At Auschwitz, some 1.2 million people were murdered. Most of them were Jews, including some 430,000 Hungarian Jews who were deported in the last year of its existence.

While 6 million were murdered in the Holocaust, one other group, the Roma (or, as they are incorrectly called, the Gypsies) were also the targets of Nazi genocide. Historians estimate that somewhere between 200,000 to 500,000 Roma were murdered out of the 1 million Roma who lived in Europe in 1939. Other innocent noncombatant civilians were also killed. Eli Wiesel has said that while not victims were Jews, all Jews were victims. The Roma also fell into this category as specific targets for genocide.

At this time, let us recall that that what enabled the Holocaust to occur began long before World War II.

In "Mein Kampf," which was written in 1925, Hitler demonized Jews, as the parasitical others who were threatening the welfare of the Aryan state. Jews were considered to be economic vampires who sought to suck out the blood of the German economy, corrupt German theater with an attack on Aryan values and pollute though marriage and even rape the purity of the Aryan race.

At this time, we should also be aware that in the November 1932 German Federal elections, Hitler and the Nazi party took 33 percent of the votes in the Reichstag. A crisis of government ensued as no party was able to form a coalition government. Finally, Chancellor Franz von Papen, with the support of Reich President Paul von Hindenburg, agreed to form a government with Hitler as the chancellor. It would later come out that these men considered Hitler to be a buffoon whom they felt could be controlled by them and other rationally thinking people. History would, of course, prove them wrong, particularly in April of 1933, when the Reichstag, the German parliament burned.

Once in power, Hitler and the Nazis attacked the press to the point wherein they were able to control it. Joseph Goebbels became the Reich Minister of Propaganda. It was he who used the so called Big Lie technique. This technique was used to turn centuries of anti-Semitism into mass murder. The Jews were blamed for dolchstoss, the stabbing in the back of the German people during World War I, causing the unwarranted and underserved defeat.

Hitler and the Nazis moved quickly not only to control the press but also to exert their power and influence on public education. They realized that an eighth-grade boy in 1933 would be a soldier in 1939. The way to build the superior Aryan race of fighters was though the control of the educational system.

Finally, let us remember that also the 1,000 Jewish refugees on the ship the St. Louis in the summer of 1939 who were denied entry to America and sent back to Nazi Europe. Xenophobia could easily be exploited under the guise of national security concerns. The tragedy of the Holocaust was not simply that Jews were killed, but that they had no place of refuge. Perhaps it is not surprising then that the Jewish people have for the past 70 years have advocated for humane treatment of refugees fleeing persecution.

As the years go by, let us not forget what the Holocaust did to humankind and vow to ourselves to not let something like it occur again. It is for this reason that I have felt that it is my moral duty to take students to the sites of mass murder in Poland and to date have taken more than 1,000 high school students on the International March of the Living to Poland and Israel.

Finally and at this time, it is urgent that we acknowledge not only this history but also its relevance. Perhaps the recently deceased Noble Laureate and Holocaust survivor Eli Wiesel put it best when he said, The opposite of love is not hate, it's indifference. The opposite of art is not ugliness, it's indifference. The opposite of faith is not heresy, it's indifference. And the opposite of life is not death, it's indifference.
Although North Carolina is the ninth-largest state in population, its citizens have the fourth-highest enrollment rate in the Affordable Care Act, just behind much larger states like Texas, California and Florida. In 2016, almost 600,000 of our neighbors were insured through Obamacare.

As reported on Jan. 14, the Republicans are nonetheless rushing to repeal the ACA, so you or someone you know may lose health insurance soon.

Since no details about the replacement, if any, have been revealed, we need to call Reps. Mark Walker and Ted Budd and Sens. Richard Burr and Thom Tillis (congressional switchboard: 202-224-3121) to ask these questions about their promised plan.

Will employers with more than 50 full-time employees be penalized if they do not provide insurance benefits?

How will people without employer insurance benefits, such as the self-employed, working poor or part-time workers, afford to pay premiums without subsidies?

What about people with pre-existing or chronic conditions who could not purchase insurance before the ACA?

Will insurance companies reinstate annual and lifetime limits on what they pay?

What recourse will individuals have when insurance companies refuse to pay for needed treatment?

Will children remain on their parents policies until age 26 at no extra cost? Will women and seniors pay higher premiums due to their sex and age? How will seniors cover the Medicare donut hole for prescriptions?

Will insurers be required to provide free preventive care?

Finally, according to the Congressional Budget Office, repealing Obamacares cost controls could increase the deficit by as much as $353 billion over the next decade. How will the Republicans make up this loss? By tax cuts for the wealthy?

I guess we can call that Trumpcare.
State Sen. Joyce Krawiec of Forsyth County recently sent a tweet, in a very snarky way, questioning the intelligence of the women who marched in D.C. and around the country last week. Perhaps she isnt a student of history and is unaware that if it had not been for women marching for rights over the past century, she would not even be allowed to vote for a state senator, let alone be one.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Jan. 28

Trend:

On the occasion of 68th Republic Day of India, on the behalf of the President of Azerbaijan, the Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources, Huseyngulu Baghirov conveyed the greetings to the people of India and wished them peace and prosperity, Indian Embassy to Baku said in a message Jan. 28.

Speaking at a reception evening, Baghirov said that it was his sincere hope that progress of friendly and cooperative ties between Azerbaijan and India would steadily serve the interests of both nations. The reception was attended by the dignitaries from Azerbaijan and members of the diplomatic corps.

Baghirov mentioned the 4th meeting of Intergovernmental Commission between the Republic of Azerbaijan and India held in Baku in October 2016 which resulted in signing of a Protocol as a roadmap for bilateral cooperation. He said Azerbaijan gave great importance to the expansion of relations with India in the fields of medicine and pharmaceuticals, infrastructure, IT and telecommunications, agriculture, energy, including renewable energy, health and tourism sectors.

Ambassador of India Sanjay Rana thanked the Government of Azerbaijan for their hospitality and support and underlined Indias commitment to strengthen friendship and cooperation with Azerbaijan in all fields.

Ambassador informed that India- Azerbaijan bilateral relations have been progressing from strength to strength. Indias ONGC-Videsh is an equity partner in the ACG oil fields and Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline. He said the two countries were working together to develop International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) which would link Indian ports to Azerbaijan and beyond. He also said that in 2016, the bilateral trade between India and Azerbaijan has jumped up by more than 60 percent with growth in exports from both sides. He mentioned that their mutual cooperation in capacity building was growing. In 2017, India has doubled the number of places available for Azerbaijani professionals and students to attend training courses and scholarships in India under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program.

It was informed that Year 2017 marked the 25th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Azerbaijan. Ambassador said special celebrations were being planned to celebrate India-Azerbaijan Dostluq Festival to mark this occasion. It was also mentioned that both India and Azerbaijan have recently streamlined procedures for visas for each-others nationals. India has added Azerbaijan to the countries whose nationals can apply online for e-TOURIST visa. Similarly, Azerbaijan has included India among the ASAN Visa System. The simplification of visa procedure is expected to lead to increased flow of tourists and businessmen between the two countries in coming months.
A former Jefferies Group trader in Stamford was convicted of a single count of securities fraud in trading mortgage securities under a federal program created in the 2008 bailout of the financial sector.

Jesse Litvak, a 42-year-old resident of Boca Raton, Fla., is scheduled to be sentenced April 21, 2017. In a jury verdict returned Friday for a trial that began Jan. 5 in U.S. District Court in New Haven, Litvak was found not guilty of eight other counts of fraud. In March 2014, Litvak was convicted of 14 counts of fraud and making false statements, with the U.S. Court of Appeals reversing several judgments and remanding securities fraud charges back to the District Court for a new trial.
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Yankee frugality is in the eye of the beholder when it comes to Connecticuts publicly funded elections.

Legislative candidates have so far returned just $478,724 in unspent funds out of $11.5 million they received in 2016.

Celebrated by watchdog groups as a national model for clean elections, the decade-old system is facing a new round of threatened cuts by budget hawks who say the political welfare must come to an end with the state running a $1.4 billion deficit.

State lawmakers have introduced 25 separate bills in the current legislative session seeking to eliminate the Citizens Election Program altogether or to slash the grant amounts for qualifying candidates.

All of the sponsors are Republicans, including state Rep. Brenda Kupchick, of Fairfield, who received $28,150 from the program for her successful re-election bid in November.

To qualify, she had to raise $5,000 from 150 contributors in her town.

Now, Kupchick is calling for an across-the-board 25 percent reduction and an end to subsidies for unopposed candidates, which are already reduced by 30 percent.

I just think the money is too much, Kupchick said.

Jolted by a pay-to-play scandal that led to the resignation and imprisonment of Gov. John G. Rowland a decade ago, Connecticut created the program to wean candidates off special-interest money and free them from the time required for fundraising. Its paid for with proceeds from the sale of abandoned property and unclaimed bottle deposits.

More Information By the numbers Public funding for legislative candidates: $11.5 million for 2016. Candidates returned: $478,724 Current state deficit: $1.4 billion See More Collapse

Both incumbents and challengers are eligible for the program if they raise seed money in increments of $100 or less from within their district or town and abide by prohibitions on contributions from state contractors and lobbyists.

Senate candidates were eligible for $95,710 for the general election if they raised $15,000 from at least 300 contributors in their districts.

Good government groups are already rallying to the defense of the program, which they say has created parity for non-wealthy challengers and helped the state move away from the moniker of Corrupticut.

Other states are trying to emulate it, said Cheri Quickmire, executive director of Common Cause Connecticut. Overall, I would say the program is really successful.

In 2016, 268 candidates took advantage of the program, which requires surplus funds be returned to the state by March 31. The deadline is June 30 for candidates who are audited by the state Elections Enforcement Commission.

State Rep. John Frey, R-Ridgefield, said there is a spending culture among some fellow recipients of the grants.

You get the pile of money, you dont want to return it, said Frey, who said he will return $10,000 to the state. Ive heard that from a lot of candidates and political consultants. They want to spend every dollar.

Frey introduced a similar measure as Kupchick to eliminate grants for unopposed candidates.

The fact of the matter is the state is in a financial crisis and this money could be used elsewhere, Frey said.

Frey and Kupchick said they support the spirit of the program, but not at such great expense.
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GREENWICH  With whimsical hats, song and birthday cake, Stanwich School celebrated Charter Day, marking its 19th birthday on Friday.

Nineteen years ago, Connecticut approved the application of Mrs. (Patricia) Young (founder of the school) and the board of pioneering trustees to open a new, different sort of school in Greenwich: a school that was clear about its moral system and took the time for students and teachers to discuss how people should live a good life, said Head of School Charlie Sachs, addressing all students on Friday morning.

Stanwich was, from its first day, a school were commitment, kindness, and effort mattered most, he said. And as a result, our high academic and personal standards flourished.

Stanwich is not aligned with a religion, but teachers there emphasize the Golden Rule and the Ten Commandments. Administrators have described its program as predicated on a Judeo-Christian traditional-values system.

From the vantage point of 19 years old, we are taking more time this year to be reflective about our past to better inform our future in a time in the worlds history of unprecedented and dramatic change, said Sachs.

Sachs encouraged students to celebrate collective individualism  like the unique and frenzied dance moves that each student could contribute to the dance of the Stanwich tribe.

Hopefully, the year to come is filled with a variety of impressive individual dance moves that over time will rhythmically coordinate with those of your teachers and your friends, said Sachs.

Some 350 Stanwich students sang Happy Birthday to the school. Lower school students wore a variety of hats to celebrate the occasion.

During the ceremony, Stanwich also honored kindergarten teacher Paula Brock with the schools 2017 Humanitarian Grant.

Brock plans to travel in July to Sri Lanka where she will teach English at a rural school and volunteer at an orphanage for two to three weeks. The Stanwich Board of Trustees has agreed to finance her travel.

Brock said she applied for the grant because she wanted to pursue a more global perspective and put her skills as a teacher to good use for new students.

I was ready to experience a completely different country, she said. In this area, especially Fairfield County, its easy to get into the bubble of where we live.

emunson@greenwichtime.com; Twitter: @emiliemunson
BRIDGEPORT  A local Islamic community leader says that hundreds of families are reeling after an executive order by President Donald Trump blocked immigrants from some majority-Muslim countries from entering the U.S.

Its totally against the very basic ideas of our country, and it could even be illegal, Dr. Ahmed Ebrahim said Saturday.

As president of the Bridgeport Islamic Community Center, Ebrahim serves an estimated 2,000 people in Greater Bridgeport, and has led the effort to purchase a local church. Ebrahim said he fears immediate adverse effects for some of the 700 Muslim families associated with the center, many of whom have visas or relatives abroad. He said disruptions could include travel plans canceled, medical care delayed, or business trips put off for legal immigrants or those with family from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia or Yemen.

Under the presidents orders, legal permanent residents and non-immigrant visa holders from the countries on the list can leave the U.S., but cant return. Trump has touted the plan as protecting Americans against potential terrorist threats, but opponents say the policy is discriminatory, and that it has already adversely affected families and individuals.

Over the past several days, many travelers were detained at New York airports and barred from boarding flights abroad. To many, like Ebrahim  who works as an associate professor of accounting at Fairfield University  the reports are worrying. I am sure there is someone who was overseas coming back or trying to bring parents to visit, he said. Not to mention students.

There has been at least some temporary relief. A federal judge issued an emergency order Saturday night temporarily barring the U.S. from deporting people from nations subject to the travel ban, saying travelers who had been detained had a strong argument that their legal rights had been violated. And, on Sunday, The New York Times reported that White House chief of staff Reince Priebus, said that people from the affected countries who hold green cards will not be prevented from returning to the United States. However, he added that border agents had the authority to detain and question suspicious travelers from certain countries.

Protests of the order have broken out across the country. Locally, U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy, D-CT, announced his intentions on Sunday to announce a bill to overturn Trumps order. Also on Sunday, Governor Dannel P. Malloy issued a statement speaking out against the order, which he said conflicts with rights guaranteed by the Constitution of the United States, and it must be contested in our courts. As a nation of immigrants, inclusivity and compassion are the hallmarks of who we are. We will not abandon our values. In the face of grave injustice, we will be neither silent nor idle, but stand ready to protect our neighbors and communities.

The University of Bridgeport has advised international students for months to stay calm, but to avoid unnecessary travel. While precise numbers were not available Saturday, UB spokeswoman Leslie Geary said only a few students are from the countries current on Trumps list.

With classes having started on Jan. 17, most students are likely to have already returned from winter break. Fairfield Universitys semester is also in full swing.

While we respect the Trump Administrations desire to keep our country safe, UB President Neil Salonen said, it is important to note the incredible contributions that international students have made to our nation.

Salonen and Ebrahim are urging the Trump administration to reform immigration in completely different way. In the wake of the presidential election, Ebrahim said hes seen two Americas  Main Street, and Pennsylvania Avenue.

We see the America on the ground. The tremendous support from communities around us, Christian and Jewish, he said, including a recent solidarity march with 1,000 people.

In May, Ebrahim expects to close on the purchase of a building bought from the United Congregational Church, a Christian organization that strongly supported the sale.

Thats completely separate what we see from the ... administration in Washington, he said.

The Associated Press contributed to this report
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Backcountry

More and faster traffic in the Porchuck and North Porchuck Road area have gotten the attention of the Board of Selectmen.

On Thursday, First Selectman Peter Tesei said residents wanted to see more stop signs and reduced speed-limit signs installed to try and moderate the behavior of drivers.

It has been a long-standing problem and I think its interesting that, while one of the residents Ive talked to is probably a 60-year resident, the others have moved here within the last two years, Tesei said. We will try and be as constructive as we can.

Tesei said GPS navigation services direct drivers looking to get to I-684 in New York or the Westchester County Airport to the local roads.

Clearly we have to act on the advice and professional counsel of our Department of Public Works Traffic Engineering Section along with the Greenwich police and they will advise us about what remedies they could employ that meet the uniform state traffic manual, which we all operate under, Tesei said.

Central Greenwich

The next dedication of a historic marker in town is set for Feb. 3 in the towns fourth ward.

This is the third marker in an effort by the Greenwich Historical Society and the Greenwich Preservation Network to mark historic parts in town. First was Greenwich Avenue; last month a sign for the River Road-Mead Avenue Historic District in Cos Cob was dedicated.

The fourth ward is immediately to the north of the towns central business district and is best known for being the location of one of the towns earliest urban subdivisions. The work was done in 1836 by William Sherwood, for whom Sherwood Place is named, and the fourth ward earned its name after an influx of Irish immigrants to the town settled in the area.

The name is derived from the ward on the east side of Manhattan, which at the time was home to many Irish immigrants. The Historical Society said the architecture of the houses in the neighborhood and the churches and other houses of worship showed off the multi-ethnic and racial backgrounds of the diverse residents who have lived there.

The marker will be formally dedicated at a ceremony at 11 a.m. and will take place next to the William Street pocket park. The marker is being underwritten by Greenwich Hospital.

Cos Cob

The firefighters at the Cos Cob Firehouse recently got a visit from Miss Connecticut USA.

Greenwich resident Olga Litvinenko, recently crowned Miss Connecticut USA, has teamed up with Unik Ernest, founder of Edeyo Foundation, to collect hurricane relief items for people in Haiti affected by Hurricane Matthew. She was on hand Jan. 21 at the Cos Cob Fire Station, which was a collection point for donations.

The relief drive, which is to aid people in the Grand Anse and Bel-Air regiond of Haiti, collected first aid kits, medical supplies, emergency Mylar blankets, personal hygiene items such as soap, hand sanitizer, toothpaste and toothbrushes and shoes for children and teenagers.

The Greenwich Firefighters in Cos Cob Local 1042 were so gracious in letting me use the fire station to host a Haiti Relief Drive for the Edeyo Foundation, Litvinenko said. It was spectacular to see the community come together in bringing medical supplies and donations for this cause.

Chicken Joes, across the street from the firehouse, sponsored lunch. Litvinenko said she hoped it would become an annual event. She also is planning a spring cocktail party at the JHouse in Riverside to raise money for the foundations work.

"Haiti is still in dire need of aid, Litvinenko said. I know that bringing awareness to organizations like Edeyo will really help this urgent situation and aid families in need.

Litvinenko said five suitcases worth of supplies were collected. People interested in donating water to victims in Haiti can visit www.edeyo.org .

Litvinenko will represent Connecticut in the spring at the Miss USA Pageant.

Downtown

A morning showing at the movies is not where you might typically find a Greenwich crowd on a Wednesday, but the 10 a.m. showing last week at the Bow Tie Cinemas on Railroad Avenue was not a typical show.

It was a special screening of the new comedy American Fango about an Italian actor who moves from Rome to New York City and has romantic misadventures before finding true love in Los Angeles. It is based, in part, on the life of the movies co-writer and director, Gabriele Altobelli, who attended the screening with the movies executive producer and former Greenwich resident Charles Randolph.

This movie has such a light, happy feel, Randolph said. Its a romantic comedy and in this crazy world of ours, where we have very dark movies like Manchester By the Sea, its just what we need. I loved Manchester by the Sea but I walked out of there wanting to kill myself.

Randolphs wife Kathleen helped develop the story with Altobelli and co-writer Brittany McComas. Randolph said it all began with a conversation between them.

This is the kind of experience that can reach anyone, Altobelli added. People can relate about what its like to come from another place. Whether its Rome or Paris or Minnesota, they can be connected to the experience. When I started to talk about my experience, people told me that you have to make a movie about it.

The movie was finished last year and has been on the film festival circuit since then. It has already picked up festival awards before it came to Greenwich.

Were always looking to improve either this product or the next product, Randolph said. It gives us an idea of how people think and how it can improve us.

Randolph said he and his crew are meeting with distributors and looking at distribution platforms like Netflix, Hulu or Amazon.

These days its really only the big studios that can get their movies into a wide release in the theaters, Randolph said. The independent guys get left out. Platforms like Amazon and Netflix have a much wider appeal now.
GREENWICH  It started out as an argument over political correctness and whether the presidential election was going to change the mood of the country. It ended, say police, with physical contact that was described as a pinch or a grab.

It became a Greenwich Police Department case, #16-44378, when detectives interviewed a 57-year-old town employee who said Christopher von Keyserling forcibly touched her lower body as she walked away from him after a heated confrontation. A misdemeanor arrest followed. Officers went to Town Hall Jan. 11 and drove the Representative Town Meeting member to police headquarters for fingerprinting and booking on a charge of sexual assault in the fourth degree.

Now, the case of von Keyserling v. the People of Connecticut has moved into the court of public opinion.

A societal debate over what separates criminal conduct from boorish behavior, and a discussion about generational differences in the perception of harassment, have been coursing through the community and among town officials who work with von Keyserling since news of the alleged incident broke.

Since his arrest, Von Keyserling, 71, has drawn support from some quarters. As a longtime member of the RTM and an frequent speaker at Town Hall on a range of public topics, von Keyserling has earned respect among a number of defenders who say the case has been overblown and does not require criminal prosecution.

On comment boards, defenders point to von Keyserlings long history of public service and note how an earlier generation would have shrugged off the incident. Defaming the character of a good man, said one observer, while another asked, Was it really necessary to get this far, an arrest? One writer, describing himself as an older town resident, called it a slip-up that would have been unexceptional, much less criminal, back in the day.

But to many others, back in the day is exactly where that kind of thinking belongs.

A colleague of von Keyserlings in RTM District 8, Sarah Darer Littman, said shes been hearing support for von Keyserling, from members of the community and some on the RTM, the so-called peoples legislature in town.

Ive heard that so many times  its just Chris being Chris, boys being boys. Its the same excuse we get all the time, she said. But those who dismiss it dont understand what its like for women to be groped in the workplace.

Having worked on Wall Street, and having been subjected to some of this myself, I think women should be entitled to do their job without being subjected to man-handling, she said.

Littman insists that misconduct like the kind von Keyserling is accused of should have consequences, and shes called for von Keyserling to step down from his position on the RTM. She said other members have opposed her calls for resignation, and he still serves in his legislative capacity, although he has stepped away temporarily from the districts leadership.

Its enabling this behavior, she said. I see this all the time, denial is the enemy. It allows harassment and abuse to continue. I cant believe were even having this discussion, that this is an issue in 2017.

All these discussions have taken place against the back-drop of a presidential election cycle in which President Donald Trumps alleged history of unwanted advances toward women was heavily publicized.

Samarpana Tamm of Greenwich, who went to von Keyserlings arraignment in Stamford this week to protest his alleged actions, as did Littman, said Trumps election has re-energized her opposition to what she calls deeply offensive behavior. She said it was important to make a stand against it  in southern Connecticut or the nations capital.

Trumps morality is in question. And his statements  doing whatever you want  its become acceptable now, she said. Women need a voice, to speak out against it.

Generational attitudes toward sexually invasive behavior have been changing through the years, said a womens studies scholar, and not everyone sees the matter the same way.

Older generations are more likely to accept this sort of harassment as the norm for women at work, school or virtually anywhere, said Professor Jennifer Sacco of Quinnipiac University. Younger generations are more likely to have gotten the message through the institutions where they are socialized that this sort of a behavior is a violation ... and a form of assault.

Unwanted touching expresses a notion of entitlement to another persons body which is not justified, she said.

Todays political climate has put the issue in a new spotlight.

Donald Trump and his comments about grabbing women by the genitals has definitely made this issue re-surface and inspired a new informal campaign for women, in particular, to talk about their experiences with sexual assault and harassment with the men, though its certainly not the first time we saw that happen, she said.

Von Keyserling has been under scrutiny before. A number of town workers and residents have said he is known to make off-color remarks and smart-aleck gestures, often in public. He has been verbally rebuked more than once by other town officials for making what some colleagues regarded as controversial statements. Police responded to a noisy and rancorous dispute between von Keyserling and another town official at Town Hall in 2013, but no action was taken.

A divorced father of three, he runs a moving business.

His lawyer, Phil Russell, has called the charge against his client unrealistic and said the incident was trivial.

His court case continues next month in Stamford, and the charge is likely to continue to draw national attention as it progresses through the courtroom and outside it.

rmarchant@greenwichtime.com;
The "big, beautiful wall" that President Donald Trump vowed again this week to build along the Mexican border won't block just humans. Dozens of animal species that migrate freely across the international line in search of water, food and mates would be walled off.

A list of animals that dwell near the 1,300-mile expanse that the proposed wall would cover seems endless. In May, in a report called Trump Wall, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service listed more than 100 species between California and Texas that are listed as threatened and endangered under the Endangered Species Act, or are candidates for a spot on the list.

At a time when the Trump administration has restricted communications from the Environmental Protection Agency and other agencies, federal agencies may be reluctant to weigh in on any topic in a way that appears critical of the president's ambitions.







But outside the government, scientists who've studied how 670 miles of walls and fences erected as part of the Secure Fence Act under former president George W. Bush in 2006 tell stories of animals stopping in their tracks, staring at barriers they couldn't cross.

"At the border wall, people have found large mammals confounded and not knowing what to do," said Jesse Lasky, an assistant professor of biology at Penn State University. Deer, mountain lions, jaguar and ocelots are among the animals whose daily movement was disrupted, he said.

More News Fate of Berlin Wall should be a teaching moment for Trump, current Berlin mayor says

Trump's proposed wall, estimated to cost between $15 billion and $25 billion, would cover parts of the border that the Bush project, which was essentially abandoned because of its cost in 2009, does not.

Research on the impacts of the current barrier fence is limited because the 2006 act gave the Homeland Security secretary sweeping power to build quickly, without the need for environmental impact studies or other analysis that would show how the land would be disturbed and how flora and fauna could potentially be harmed.

While at the University of Texas, Lasky led a study on the impact of barriers published in the journal Diversity and Distributions in 2011. The study's main conclusion was the "new barriers would increase the number of species at risk."

A big concern, Lasky said in an interview Friday, was that over time the populations of threatened and endangered species would decline. A wall cutting off isolated populations from those on the other side of the wall would exacerbate the problem because they couldn't mate, at least not in a sustainable way.

"There are concerns about small populations mating with each other and inbreeding, and getting genetic disorders from inbreeding," Lasky said. Their problems wouldn't end there. "We didn't talk about it much in the paper, but with climate change, if an animal or any organism is going to stay in the temperatures it prefers, it has to move to track those conditions. That's going to be important for the persistence of a lot of species."

A 2008 study mentioned the decline of carnivores, such as the grizzly bear and gray wolf, at the U.S.-Mexico border and renewed interest in protecting Neotropical cat species there. "In the USA there are no known breeding populations of jaguars and only two . . . populations of ocelots," the study by scientists at Pace University in New York and the Universidad Autonoma de Queretaro in Mexico.

The cats "are threatened by land development and land conversion, predator control by cattle growers, an increase in disease exposure, construction of highways, international bridges and immigration-control infrastructure," meaning border walls. More walls would greatly magnify the threat, the researchers said.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Jan. 28

By Ilhama Isabalayeva  Trend:

Restoration of the liberated Azerbaijani lands, starting with one village, is a message to international organizations that were created to solve the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, says Ali Ahmadov, deputy prime minister, deputy chairman and executive secretary of the ruling New Azerbaijan Party (NAP).

He believes that the order of Azerbaijans President Ilham Aliyev on restoration of the Jabrayil Districts Jojug Marjanli village, liberated from occupation, is a historic step and a historic decision.

The presidents order is one of the most important steps in the resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, Ahmadov told reporters in Baku Jan. 28.

This is a harbinger of the beginning of great events. By this, Azerbaijani society, the country, government and Azerbaijans president once again showed the resolve to return our occupied lands. The position of our society is that Azerbaijan will at all costs liberate the occupied territories and they will be restored. Our IDPs will return to their lands, their homes. Thus, Azerbaijans territorial integrity will be restored and a great historical injustice will be eliminated, he said.

Ahmadov noted that the work in Jojug Marjanli will be carried out using the state funds.

But I believe, with liberation of the Azerbaijani lands, international and economic organizations will support the restoration of our lands and provide grants. But this is a matter of the future, he added.

President Ilham Aliyev signed an order Jan. 24 on measures to restore the Jabrayil Districts Jojug Marjanli village, liberated from the Armenian occupation in April 2016.

The State Committee of Azerbaijan for Affairs of Refugees and IDPs will receive 4 million manats from the Presidential Reserve Fund for 2017 for construction of 50 houses, a school building and the relevant infrastructure at the first stage, according to the order.

The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts.

The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts.
Zenkichis booths were made for hiding. Photo: Melissa Hom

The news these days could most charitably be called depressing. Nobody is happy with anybody else, and theres really no end in sight. With this parade of alarming developments, everyone could use a spot to seek refuge for just a few hours and act like things are still normal. Here are a dozen such spots that fit the bill: bars, secluded restaurants, and so on  where you can pretend, briefly, the outside world doesnt exist.

Karasu

You access the Japanese boite through a backdoor in Fort Greenes Walters, so in many ways it feels as though you passed through a portal into another world. The handsome space will make you feel removed while you chow down on your tonkatsu with coleslaw and sake-steamed clams.

4 Charles Prime Rib

All dark colors and barely lit, the West Village chophouse is the kind of place you go to totally disappear. The food  slabs of beef, an excellent burger, and other hearty, classic dishes like carbonara and Dover sole  is the sort of pleasurable cooking that will make you instantly feel taken care of. The many excellent cocktail options dont hurt, either.

Le Boudoir

Basement bars are good for this kind of thing, considering you cant see the outside world even if you want to. Even better when someplace goes all-in on an escapist theme, like this ostentatious imitation of Marie Antoinettes glitzy living quarters (even though its actually on Atlantic Avenue in Brooklyn). There are cocktails, naturally, and live jazz that will help remind you of a time when America was still civilized.

El Cortez

Theres a semi-secret feeling to the front door of this Mexican-ish bar in industrial Bushwick, which lends itself to the feeling when youre inside that its very much of a different time and place. The decor is thematic, but in a silly rather than serious way, which carries over into the food and drink: pina coladas and frozen mojitos and retro dishes like taco salads and hard-shell tacos.

Sammys Roumanian

From the outside, the Chrystie Street restaurant looks like, well, a shithole. The sign is weathered and pocked with graffiti, the front door flanked by security gates rolled down in perpetuity. Inside, its an alternative-universe adult bar mitzvah, where the vodkas in ice blocks, a keyboardist (fingers crossed for Dani Luv) plays all your favorite cheesy tracks, and its a party all night long.

Ginnys Supper Club

If in need of refuge in Harlem, head to the Red Roosters basement bar: Its lively and consistently busy, so it wont be right for you if you want to get away from the crowds. But the design is thoroughly retro, so you can pretend youre in another pre-Trump era, and the food is soulful. Think fried chicken with roasted yams, Swedish meatballs, and crab fritters.

Fort Defiance

Some bars feel thoroughly removed from the outside world not because of their physical structure, but because of their effectively conveyed aesthetic themes. Fort Defiance is one such place. A neighborhood stomping ground, its vaguely tiki-ish, and the ultimate in New Orleans-style escapism. Plus its in Red Hook, which itself always feels a world away from New York.

Vinegar Hill House

Like Red Hook, Vinegar Hill is the rare neighborhood that feels completely insulated from the rest of New York. Thats especially true of the block thats home to Vinegar Hill House, which is itself cozy and insulated, specializing in homey food and toasty vibes.

Jimmys No. 43

Like several other places on this list, Jimmys is a basement bar that, once you enter, doesnt reveal much about whats going on beyond its door. Thats good. The beer is fancy but the place isnt pretentious, and it has that sort of muted lighting characteristic of the worlds best pubs.

Zenkichi

Dull your senses with a little sake, and youll feel even more secluded in the Williamsburg restaurant than you would at your own home. Not only are there no windows whatsoever, but you eat in semi-private booths guarded by rattan blinds.

Achilles Heel

During the winter, the Greenpoint bar is perfumed by its wood-burning fireplace, so that it feels like an upstate retreat. The lights are always dim at night, strong cocktails are always within reach, and when its a quiet weeknight its easy to feel ensconced in your own conversation.

Ops

Pizza and wine together are comforting enough, but especially so in a place as snug as this Bushwick pizzeria. Its cozy and on a relatively quiet block, dimly lit in just the right way, and has a rustic ambiance that warms you right up. Plus: Theres a pizza blanketed in mortadella, and every bottle on the well-curated wine list costs $42.


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The Motorola Moto G5 and G5 Plus are seemingly set for a Barcelona unveiling next month, but oddly it's been just the Plus version that's been the star in recent rumors. Well, it's the non-Plus that's stopped by the FCC, for a change.

Moto G4

The US telecom regulator has given it the green light, and even if it's typically not the most prolific source of intel, sifting through the papers you could still find a few interesting bits. For one, the G5 will support NFC - a first for the G-series (if you don't count certain regional versions of the Moto G4 Play, as pointed out in the comments).



FCC documentation excerpts

The other thing, revealed by the FCC filing, is battery capacity - listed at 3,000mAh, it's slightly less than the floating 3,100mAh number for the Plus. The phone will come with a fast charger capable of outputting 14.4W at either 9V/1.6A or 12V/1.2A, as well as 5V/1.6A. You'd also be intrigued to find out that the bundled USB cable will be 1-meter long. Or not.

The rest of the so far established specs of the Moto G5 include a 5.5-inch FullHD display, 16GB of storage and a 13MP/5MP camera combo. For more, we'll need to wait until February 26.

Source | Via
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Baku, Azerbaijan, Jan. 28

By Azad Hasanli  Trend:

The Islamic Development Bank (IDB) is ready to support Azerbaijan in transition to non-oil-based economy, Sayed Aqa, IDB vice-president, said in an exclusive interview with Trend.

Azerbaijan is in the global economic system which, unfortunately, is not quite positive at the moment for political reasons, trade issues and commodity prices. So all of our member countries, including Azerbaijan, are affected in one way or another, he said.

He noted that the Azerbaijani government has taken steps to switch to an economic model which will not depend on oil.

We discussed [in the Azerbaijani Ministry of Agriculture] how we can support the agriculture sector not only in terms of agriculture improvements, but also how we can help with value addition for the products to be able to come for domestic market and also for export, Sayed Aqa added.

He noted that the IDB is ready to take part in financing of a number of the government initiatives and bring the experience of other IDB member countries that have gone through the similar transformation and transition to the non-oil-based economy.

Azerbaijan joined the Islamic Development Bank in 1992. To date, the bank has invested more than $1.3 billion to Azerbaijan for implementation of various projects.
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Published on 2017/01/28

A statue of a woman outside a Japanese consul sparks controversy, Jun Joon-hyuk will be Korea's first ballerino to join Britain's Royal Ballet, Seoulistic lists 13 "unique" museums in Korea, and get a glimpse into Korea's labour landscape through the lens of industry insider Park Jin-hee.

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"Japan Recalls South Korean Ambassador in Protest of 'Comfort Women' Memorial"

Earlier this month the Japanese ambassador to South Korea was recalled by his government pending their request to have a statue of a Korean woman outside their Busan consuls removed. According to Artnet, "Japan immediately called for the statue's removal, calling it a violation of the spirit of the 2015 agreement, in which it promised $8.3 million to surviving victims". Sarah Cascone, the Artnet writer, described the statue as follows: "The bronze artwork depicts a young girl with short hair, in a traditional Korean hanbok, sitting barefoot with her hands in her lap".

...READ ON ARTNET NEWS

"Jun Joon-hyuk joins Britain's Royal Ballet, its 1st Korean ballerino"

Congratulations to Jun Joon-hyuk on becoming the first Korean ballerino to join Britain's Royal Ballet. The 19-year old is set to join this prestigious group in August, just a month after he will have finished up his studies at the Royal Ballet School. "Whenever I looked up the ballet company's performance from the floor, I always wanted to be part of the group", said Jun. Well done young man!

...READ ON THE KOREA HERALD

"Korea Travel: 13 Unique Must See Museums"

Seoulistic has compiled this list of thirteen "unique" museums in Korea that will definitely challenge your previous notions of what a museum can be. There are some seriously stunning and important museums in Korea  like the National Museum of Korea, National Folk Museum, and War Memorial of Korea  but these places are a little different, a little weird even...

...READ ON SEOULISTIC

"Salt Flowers: Glimpses of South Korea's Labour Landscape"

Get a stunning look inside Korea's labour landscape with this series of incredible photographs by Park Jin-hee, a photo specialist for the Korean Metal Workers' Union. "I believe in that ancient truth: The world belongs to those who work", writes Park, "That is why my team of photographers are working on a project to document salt flowers, because we celebrate the nobility of honest sweat".

...READ ON KOREA EXPOSE
Baku, Azerbaijan, Jan. 28

By Anvar Mammadov, Azad Hasanli  Trend:

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) considers the financing of a part of a road between Ganja and the Georgian border as part of the project for reconstruction and upgrading of roads in Azerbaijan, Ivana Duarte, head of the EBRD Baku office, told Trend.

"We are considering the financing of 130 km of road on the M2 highway between Ganja, the second largest city in Azerbaijan, and the Georgian border. This would be done within the previously signed framework loan agreement for regional roads," she said.

"The M2 Highway is part of the East-West corridor, which is expected to open up flow of goods via the Silk Road. We hope we will be able to commit to this important project in early 2017."

Duarte added that EBRD continues to support the Azerbaijani governments priority of rehabilitation and reconstruction of its principal road corridors and key regional roads.

"The well-functioning infrastructure is crucial for trade, for regional cooperation with neighbors, and in general for economic development across the country," she said.
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, Jan. 28

By Huseyn Hasanov  Trend:

Turkmenistans presidency at the Energy Charter Conference will serve for development of long-term models of cooperation, the Turkmen Dovlet Habarlary state news service reported.

The report says that the program has been prepared on international events to be held in Ashgabat, Brussels, New York, Beijing, Hong Kong and Tehran. Tens of meetings of the Energy Charter Secretariat are planned to be held in Belgiums capital.

Turkmenistans presidency at the Energy Charter Conference in 2017 will make a contribution to the development of effective long-term models for international cooperation in the energy sector, based on a balance of interests of all parties involved, said the countrys President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov at a meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers, according to the report.

Particular attention will be paid to the following areas: processing of raw hydrocarbon materials to produce finished products and to export them; use of renewable energy sources; safe transit of energy resources; increasing energy efficiency and energy saving, as well as reducing impacts of energy use on environment.

Moreover, the agenda will also include issues on stimulating investments in order to meet the increasing global demand for energy and improving investment climate in member countries of the Energy Charter; on attracting new countries to the Charter membership.

Turkmenistan is one of rich countries for its natural gas resources. According to BP, the countrys recoverable reserves are estimated at 17.5 trillion cubic meters of gas or nine percent of total global reserves, which puts Turkmenistan on the fourth position in this field after Iran, Russia and Qatar.




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
Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Jan. 28

By Demir Azizov  Trend:

Media Week, dedicated to the public discussion of the Action Strategy on Five Priority Areas of Development in 2017-2021, ended in Uzbekistan.

The main purpose of the media week, held in Tashkent on Jan. 23-27, was a comprehensive study of current concerns of the population and getting opinions and suggestions of the Uzbek people.

The event was attended by experts, journalists, representatives of state bodies, public organizations and diplomatic corps.

A special media platform equipped with modern information technologies was created for holding the media week.

Media materials, prepared after presentations, discussions, briefings and press conferences were aired live by the countrys non-state TV and radio stations, published in newspapers, placed on the internet as well as in social networks.

Such a dialogue with society took place for the first time in the history of Uzbekistan, said Svetlana Artykova, deputy chairman of the Uzbek Parliaments Senate.
The family of Dublin darts great Vera Ronan has made a desperate plea for vital rehabilitation therapy after she suffered a serious brain injury.

Vera's husband, John, and daughter, Natalie, are pleading with Health Minister Simon Harris and the HSE to stop the further deterioration of Vera's brain functions by granting her the intensive therapy she needs.

John (63) broke down in tears as he told the Herald of his unanswered pleas for intensive help for Vera (63).

"I'm so angry that they are not giving her the intensive therapy she needs," said John.

The couple grew up in Cabra and have been sweethearts since they were 14 years old.

Surgery

They played darts together for decades and Vera was the captain of the Dublin ladies' darts team, leading the county to five All-Ireland victories.

She was the Dublin captain 18 months ago when she slipped in the hallway of her home in Mountview, Blanchardstown, and fractured her skull.

She underwent seven hours of surgery to stop bleeding in her brain.

She is now totally dependent on others, as she has been left with no short-term memory and has difficulty with her balance.

Experts who examined Vera later declared her condition would improve if she received intensive brain exercise therapy at home six hours a day for an extended period.

Instead, she receives only two hours a week from a rehabilitation assistant at her home in Blanchardstown.

Natalie feels betrayed that Vera has not got the treatment she so badly needs.

"My mother is deteriorating before my eyes because she isn't getting the amount of intensive therapy she needs," Natalie said.

"I was best friends with my mother but she can't have a conversation anymore and will ask the same question every three minutes. I feel like I've lost my best friend and my mother," said Natalie, a Sinn Fein councillor in Blanchardstown.

Plight

Vera also played darts in the Dublin men's league as a top player. She even defeated Phil Taylor when he visited Dublin in the first year that he was world champion, said Natalie.

"Dad hasn't thrown a dart since her accident," she said.

Vera's plight is replicated in many families throughout Ireland, where people with neurological problems are not getting the rehabilitation they need.

The Neurological Alliance of Ireland (NAI), an umbrella group for 30 neurological charities, is running a campaign called We Need Our Heads Examined, which demands proper rehabilitation therapies for Irish people.

Mr Harris invited Natalie and the NAI to meet in November. Natalie said he assured her he would do what he could about her mother's needs and he told the NAI he would work to get plans implemented to provide more services for people with neurological conditions.

Another meeting between the minister, Natalie and the NAI has been arranged for next month.

NAI executive director Mags Rogers told the Herald: "Vera has been let down by the State at all stages. She continues to be let down on an ongoing basis. We're aware of hundreds of cases like Vera's."

She said there are 80,000 people in Ireland with severe disabilities caused by neurological conditions who are in need of rehabilitation. "But less than one in six of them are getting any rehabilitation," she added.

The National Rehabilitation Hospital in Dun Laoghaire is far too small to provide the services that are needed.

"The hospital is being rebuilt but there is no increase in the number of beds. The new building will only have 120 beds like the old one.

Action

"But more than twice that number is needed to serve the Irish population," she said.

A national strategy for neuro- rehabilitation services was completed in 2015, but no action has been taken to implement the policy, she added.

A spokesperson for Mr Harris said: "The minister absolutely intends to meet with Natalie again in the next few weeks and his office has been in touch this week to arrange that meeting.

"The minister has also prioritised the publication of a new implementation plan for a neuro-rehabilitation strategy and this has been included in the HSE's Service Plan for 2017.

"This is a vital step in ensuring we improve rehabilitation services and supports for people who have suffered a stroke or neurological condition."

Meanwhile, Vera's condition continues to deteriorate.
Three men have been charged by gardai investigating a huge weapons seizure at a warehouse in west Dublin.

James Walsh (33), Johnathon Harding (44) and Declan Brady (51) were brought before Dublin District Court charged in connection with the haul.

Judge Anthony Halpin remanded them in custody until next Wednesday after no bail applications were made on their behalf.

They are charged with possession of five revolvers, ammunition and a silencer.

Raid

The find was made after officers from the Garda Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau (DOCB) raided a warehouse at Greenogue industrial estate, Rathcoole, in a dawn operation on Tuesday.

The three men had been detained at Clondalkin and Ronanstown Garda Stations before they were brought before Dublin District Court.

Their cases were dealt with individually.

Mr Walsh, of Neilstown Drive, Clondalkin; Mr Harding, of McNeill Court, Sallins, Co Kildare; and Mr Brady, from The Park, Wolston Abbey, Celbridge, also in Kildare, remained silent as evidence of their arrest, charge and caution was given to the court by detectives.

They are each charged with three offences under the Firearms Act - unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, possession of a silencer and having five handguns.

These are alleged to have been a Zastava M83-02 six-shot revolver, two special calibre Smith & Wesson model five-shot revolvers and two Rossi five-shot revolvers.

Detective Sergeant Emmet Casserly told the court Mr Brady said "no" in reply to each charge at Clondalkin Station at 1.14pm yesterday. Det Sgt Casserly said he was objecting to bail.

Defence solicitor Anarine McAllister said Mr Brady was "not applying for bail on this occasion".

Caution

Judge Halpin ordered all necessary relevant medical attention and treatment.

Judge Halpin asked if the DPP's directions were available.

Detective Superintendent Tony Howard said it was anticipated that there would be further charges.

Detective Sergeant Michael Cuffe then gave evidence of arresting, charging and cautioning Mr Walsh at 1.34pm at Ronanstown Garda Station. He made no reply after caution.

His barrister David Staunton handed a statement of Mr Walsh's financial means in to court and Judge Halpin deferred a decision on legal aid to a later date.

Detective Sergeant Paul Curran said he arrested Mr Harding at Clondalkin Station at 10.50am. He made no reply to the charges after caution.

He was granted legal aid following an application by his solicitor Brian Coveney.
Theresa May and Donald Trump put on a united front after their White House meeting. Photo: PA

President Donald Trump pledged America's "lasting support" to the historic "special relationship" with Britain after he emerged from his first meeting with British PM Theresa May.

Mrs May, who said the meeting gave the two a chance to build a relationship, announced that Mr Trump had accepted an invitation from the Queen for a state visit later this year.

Mr Trump sought to charm Mrs May, noting during his first news conference as president that, "by the way, my mother was born in Scotland".

"I am honoured to have the prime minister here for our first official visit from a foreign leader," Mr Trump said, standing alongside Mrs May in the ornate White House East Room.

Prosperity

He added that the United States and the United Kingdom have "one of the great bonds."

"We pledge our lasting support to this most special relationship," Mr Trump said. "Together, America and the United Kingdom are a beacon for prosperity and the rule of law."

Mrs May thanked Mr Trump for inviting her to visit so soon after his inauguration last Friday and said there was "much on which we agree".

"Today's talks, I think, are a significant moment for President Trump and I to build our relationship," Mrs May said.

The Trump-May meeting came a day after Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto called off his own trip to Washington next week amid wrangling over who will pay for Mr Trump's planned wall along the Mexican border.

Mr Trump's spokesman said the president would seek a 20pc tax on Mexican imports to pay for the barrier, then later clarified that such a tax would be one possible approach.

Mrs May's meeting with the president is being hailed by the British government as a sign that the trans-Atlantic "special relationship" is valued by the new administration.

Mrs May's visit, so soon after Mr Trump's inauguration, has been criticised by her political opponents, and risks being overshadowed by the flood of announcements, plans and proposals coming out of the White House. On Thursday, Mrs May was repeatedly asked about Britain's stance on torture - the UK has condemned it - after Mr Trump said he thinks torturing terrorism suspects works.

She has strong reasons for wanting the relationship to work with Britain set to leave the EU and its 500m-person single market. A trade deal with the US, Britain's biggest export market, is a major prize.

Derision

Mr Trump has drawn parallels between Britain's choice to leave the EU and his own success, using the Brexit vote to bolster his derision of the 28-nation bloc and his preference for striking bilateral agreements.

That puts Mrs May in an awkward spot. She wants a good relationship with Mr Trump but does not share his disdain for the EU, saying it's in Britain's interests that it succeeds.

Mr Trump and Mrs May both addressed a Republican retreat in Philadelphia on Thursday, though their visits did not overlap. Mrs May's speech alternated between saluting Mr Trump's vision for what she called American "renewal" and reminding him, and his Republican colleagues, of the United States' global responsibilities.
Tehran, Iran, Jan. 28

By Mehdi Sepahvand  Trend:

Iran is ready to sit for gas talks with Turkmenistan, but first the Turkmens would have to make up for the damages they have done, CEO of the National Iranian Gas Company Hamidreza Araqi told Tasnim news agency January 28.

Turkmenistan halted gas flow to Iran on January 1, just one day after they had agreed that a previous deal for gas import from Turkmenistan would stay in force for five years.

Turkmenistan claims Iran has to pay $1.8 billion due payment for gas it received in 2007-2008. Iran denies the claim. In that period Turkmenistan reportedly increased the gas price for Iran from $40 to $360 per 1,000 cubic meters, despite a 20-year deal.

Turkmenistan had been supplying gas to Iran since December 1997. On Jan. 24, Araqi said Tehran may file a complaint against Turkmenistan in the International Court of Arbitration over the gas dispute.

In his most recent interview, however, Araqi said Iran may for the time being consider not pursuing the legal case. He added Iran considers the previous agreement invalid and would only negotiate a new agreement.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Jan. 28

By Fatih Karimov  Trend:

Iran has commenced exports of petrochemical products to Peru, Kazem Bostakian, the commercial director of Karoon Petrochemical Company, said.

Iran has begun to ship Methylene diphenyl diisocyanate(MDI) consignments to the South American country, Bostakian said, Mehr news agency reported Jan. 28.

The company has so far exported various petrochemical products, in particular, toluene diisocyanate (TDI) consignments to various countries in Europe, Asia and America following the removal of international sanctions last year, Bostakian added.

Karoon Petrochemical Company, located in Irans southwestern port city of Mahshahr, is the first producer of isocyanates in the Middle East, according to the companys managing director, Alireza Sediqizadeh.

Isocyanates are a family of highly reactive, low molecular weight chemicals widely used in the manufacture of flexible and rigid foams, fibers, and coatings. They are increasingly used in the automobile industry and building insulation materials.

Karoon Company has two phases of production conducted through joint venture with Chematur Engineering AB (CEAB) of Sweden and at the cost of 350 million..

The first phase produces 40,000 tons of toluene diisocyanate (TDI) per annum, of which 70 percent is domestically consumed and the rest 30 percent is exported to other countries including Iraq, Turkey, India, Russia, Azerbaijan, Albania, Greece, Sweden, Peru, Kenya and Nigeria, with Iraq standing on top of them.

The second production phase, which is currently working with 50 percent of its capacity, is to produce 40,000 tons of MDI per year.
GLADE SPRING, Va.  Local patrons gathered at the Glade Spring Library last Saturday morning for more than just the books.

It was a family-fun activity that drew them to town to check out the first of several art events offered in the coming weeks.

Substitute librarian Linda Stanley said the Family Time Creations activity for the day was how to make a shadow box made from something as simple as a cardboard box.

Stanley said the activities are a good way to bring families together on the weekend. Some of the best family activities are the simplest ones.

And, there was nothing better than a table full of markers, glue sticks, and scissors to bring out the creativity and laughter for the participants.

Katelyn Gregory and her mother Chantal Gregory of Meadowview decided itd be fun to do a craft together. We rarely get to spend time with each other. Its really nice to have some time with her, said Katelyn, an eighth grade student at Glade Spring Middle School.

I love owls, said her mother, who featured a silhouette of the bird for her shadow box design. Her daughter chose a forest scene.

This is quality time for my granddaughter and me, said Marion resident Linda Surber. We very seldom get to spend weekends together since she moved to Meadowview. It was her idea to come to the activity today.

Her granddaughter, Keegan Surber, a fourth grade student at Meadowview Elementary School, made shadow boxes to give to her parents.

Teresa Kestner of Glade Spring made a fairy-themed shadow box that will go in a special room in her house that contains fairy designs. Ive always loved fairies, she said.

The process is simple:

1. Participants used mailer boxes from the post office, but any box, such as a shoe box, will do.

2. Using an Exacto knife, cut a rectangular opening in the top of the box, leaving a frame around the opening.

3. Paint the frame a desired color with acrylic paints.

4. Cut and glue a sheet of decorative scrapbook paper behind the opening.

5. Next, print small silhouette designs from the Internet and cut out the designs using either scissors or an Exacto knife.

6. Glue one or more of the silhouette designs on top of the scrapbook paper.

7. Sit the shadow box on a shelf and enjoy!

More to Come

Family Time Creations will be held at 11 a.m. at the Glade Spring Library on the following dates. Call the Glade Spring Library at 276-429-5626 to learn the activity for each meeting: Feb. 18, March 18, April 15 and May 20.

Carolyn R. Wilson is a freelance writer in Glade Spring, Virginia. Contact her at news@washconews.com.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Jan. 28

By Emil Ilgar  Trend:

Iran has signed deals with dozen European companies like Spanish Cepsa and Italian Eni to rent its 35 oil tankers to them for oil transits, Sirous Kian-Ersi, the managing director of the National Iranian Tanker Company (NITC) told Mehr.

He added that the all of 35 deals are voyage charter.

During January, three Iranian super tankers reached Europe.

After several years of suspension regarding the sailing of Iranian oil tankers to EU due to sanctions, the first Iranian oil ship reached Spain's Algeciras and two other Iranian tankers also left Persian Gulf to Netherlands.

Irans oil exports to EU reached 622,581 barrels a day in January, according to Bloombergs calculations.
Washington County football: Wildcats, Warriors open playoffs with victories

Williamsport and Boonsboro will play in the second round of the Class 2A-1A West playoffs after victories Friday night.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Jan. 28

By Fatih Karimov  Trend:

Iran's police have seized more than 8.4 tons of narcotics across the country in less than one week of operations, Asadollah Hadinejad, the deputy head of Iran's Anti-Drug Headquarters, said.

The police seized various illegal drugs including 7.5 tons of opium, 312 kilograms of hashish and 143 kilograms of heroin in last one-week period, Hadinejad said, Fars news agency reported Jan. 28.

Hadinejad further said the police also arrested 196 drug traffickers in the period.

Iran is situated on a major drug route between Afghanistan and Europe, as well as the Persian Gulf states. The Islamic Republic shares about 900 kilometers of common border with Afghanistan, over which 74 percent of opium is smuggled.

The fight against drug trafficking annually costs Iran about $1 billion, according to the official estimates.

According to statistics, there are about two million drug users in Iran.
Boeing has been awarded a more than $2 billion contract to build 15 KC-46 military air refuelling tankers, Sputnik reported.

"The Boeing Company [of] Seattle, Washington, has been awarded a $2.1 billion for KC-46 Lot 3 production," the announcement stated on Friday.

The contractor will provide 15 KC-46 aircraft, data, two spare engines, and five wing refueling pod kits, the Defense Department added.

The KC-46 Pegasus is a wide-body, multirole tanker that can refuel all US, allied and coalition military aircraft compatible with international aerial refuelling procedures.

Assembly of the first 19 Pegasus tanker planes under a $2.8 billion US Air Force contract began in August 2016.
The Spanish Maritime Safety Agency saved 49 migrants en route to Spain from Africa, whose boat had been adrift in the sea for two days, Sputnik reported.

The boat was found offshore, about 86 miles southeast of the city of Almeria in the Spanish region of Andalusia, Spanish Europa Press news agency reported.

According to the media outlet, after the boat was discovered with the help of a helicopter, everyone aboard was taken ashore.
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Moga/Faridkot/Amritsar

Theres an uprising against the Akali Dal and consequently the BJP in vast stretches of Punjab. The Congress has a perceptible edge in Majha and Doaba regions that aggregate 49 seats in the House. But the palpable fragmentation in the Akalis core panthic vote in certain pockets of Malwa that elects 68 legislatures isnt a cause for them to celebrate; the Aam Aadmi Party a bigger gainer where the shift is led by the right and the left radicals.

Such categorisation of radical behaviour is euphemism, in fact, for Sikh and Communist hardliners. For them, the Congress isnt a religious-ideological option. Example: the three assembly segments in Faridkot district thats part of the parliamentary seat held by the AAPs Sadhu Singh.

Such islands of radicalism are scattered across Malwa, including the other three Lok Sabha seats that went to AAP in 2014: Sangrur, Fatehgarh Sahib and Patiala.

The radicals are lending Arvind Kejriwals party a decibel strength that might be in excess of its ability to notch up seats. Spearheading their campaign in small towns and in the countryside are motivated peer groups besides jobless, young men known as mundeer in local lingo.

I met one such group at the marketplace in Mogas Lohara village. Whos winning here, I asked. They flashed in response their mobile sets with AAPs jhadu stickers. But whats so special about the neophyte party, I persisted. Weve been betrayed. We voted for the Akalis earlier, its time now to show them their place.

Of the five who sported crew-cut hair, only two could perhaps vote, the remaining being in their teens. We cant vote but our families will, they reasoned, walking off guffawing aloud.

One can argue that such groups are there for the fun of it. But not really.

They give the AAP a voluble social presence lacked by the Congress and the Akalis who they berate with parental approval.

A police inspector checking vehicles in Mogas Dharamkot segment explained succinctly the phenomenon: Whats overt isnt real except that the panthic vote has badly cracked. The Congress vote is intact but silent. Theyd reveal their hand at the polling stations.

In Moga town a short drive away, one gathered from a chat with RTI activist SN Sood --who did not hide his BJP past-- that the radicals support for AAP could be a double edged sword. Forever weary of Akali hardliners, the non-Sikh constituents might consolidate for the Congress in urban pockets.

The question is as to which of the two reactionary voting groups will tilt the scales? With rural and urban pockets headed in opposite directions, the contest over the Akali ruins is between the Congress and AAP.

The narrative acquired another dimension as one moved out of Moga to Faridkot some 50 km away.

There candidates didnt matter, only parties did. And the party with a head-start was Kejriwals. The Congress hoped to win one of the three seat on the local clout of its candidate. Explained a cycle shop in Faridkot constituency: The Congress candidates good. But theres an AAP wave in villages.

How did the AAP that has no CM-face acquire traction as a party? Easy answer: except the flip-flop on the water issue with Haryana, it has no other baggage from history.

The radicals trust it more than the Congress (with its 1984 past), in the region where the Badal regime used force to quell protests against incidents of sacrilege.

Yet, such micro pictures that are helpful to AAP defuse at the macro level even in Malwa.

For instance, in Ferozepur and Faridkot divisions comprising seven districts with 28 assembly segments, half the seats are projected for the Congress.

Intelligence reports place AAPs tally between 8-10 and the remaining in the Akali share in the region where PS Badal and his son Sukhbir are in the fray.

Regardless of the AAP undercurrent in rural areas, the Congress challenge could get keener in Malwa with Rahul Gandhi endorsing Captain Amarinder Singh as the partys CM face.

At a boisterous rally in the Akalis-citadel of Majitha, in the Majha region, Navjot Sidhu went hammer and tongs after Kejriwal, accusing him of enticing him with the deputy CMs slot without telling whod be their chief minister.

In the final leg of electioneering, the Congress twosome will focus on Malwa.

Kejriwal will in the meanwhile be in Majha. Thatll make the fight watchable  and suspenseful!
Indias military might was on view during its Republic Day parade on January 26. Much of the focus of its armed forces is on China even though they are more regularly engaged in dealing with Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir. China looms large in the minds of Indias planners  owing to its large military budget, its modernisation plans and the aggressive posturing in the South China Sea  but there is not enough public discussion as to what a future India-China war might look like.

This gap has been impressively addressed in a paper by Iskander Rehman for the Naval War College Review titled A Himalayan Challenge: Indias Conventional Deterrent and the Role of Special Operations Forces along the Sino-Indian Border. Rehman, senior fellow at Pell Center for International Relations and Public Policy at Salve Regina University, draws on extensive source material and interviews with figures in Indian intelligence, military and special forces to capture how Indian and Chinese strategists think about a border war, the way they are organising their resources and the constraints they face. The paper essentially tries to assess if Indias operational concepts are sufficiently tailored tothe evolving Chinese challenge.

Read | After 1962 war, CIA feared China could attack India through Nepal, Myanmar

To begin with, Rehman outlines four factors that will shape India-China conflict. First, the territorial defence postures of both countries. India maintains its large body of troops relatively close to the border while China stations a limited number in its interior in Tibet. Second is the climate and the difficult terrain. Areas along the Indian side are not amenable to mechanised warfare, except certain parts of Ladakh and Sikkim. The high elevation of Tibet gives China some commanding advantages for surveillance, artillery operations and acclimatisation of troops to high altitudes. High altitude and extreme cold affect almost every element of military equipment; they complicate air campaigns and battle plans. Third, is the infrastructure disparity between the two sides. The Peoples Liberation Army has rapid access to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) thanks to the terrain and highways and high-speed railway networks it has built whereas Indian troops often have to trek several hours, if not days, to attain certain areas. Fourth, there are very different command structures on both sides  India has several regional army and air force commands, China has one unified western theatre command.

Planners on both sides believe that the next India-China conflict will be limited in scope and short in duration, rather than a protracted, large-scale, force-on-force campaign, because of the nuclear overhang and the prospect of a third party intervention if it prolongs. This has a bearing on the kind of war they prepare for. Chinese writings since the 1990s have emphasised transtheater mobility, rapid massing of strength, gaining initiative from striking first and fighting a quick battle to force a quick solution.

Read | India trying to convince China that our rise wont harm its ascent: Jaishankar

In the event of a conflict with India, conventional forces will be rushed in from the interior and these will be accompanied by air, electronic and cyber operations. The PLAs air force (PLAAF) and artillery will conduct standoff strikes to disrupt and delay the arrival of Indian forces coming from the lowlands. PLAs Special Operations Forces (SOFs) will be deployed to attack vital targets to create favourable conditions for main force units. Rehman writes that India has been following with a certain degree of trepidation, the rapid development of Chinas airborne assault capabilities via the PLAAFs 15th Airborne Corps, numbering over 35,000 troops and headquartered at Xiaogan, from where it is expected to reach any part of China within ten hours.

Responding to this, India is building on its advantage in conventional troops numbers augmenting its force structure with new battalions of scouts, adding air, missile and surveillance assets, raising a new Mountain Strike Corps and improving its road and rail infrastructure in the border regions. Beyond these material indicators Rehman argues that the most significant change has occurred in the intellectual domain as Indian defence planners have adopted much more vigorous, tactically offensive approach to territorial defence. Raising a Strike Corps was a way of moving away from deterrence by denial to deterrence by punishment; to a form of offensive defence, a cross-border riposte strategy. As an army colonel told Rehman once the Chinese seize a position, it may be very difficult to dislodge them. Rather than expend much blood and treasure attempting to storm impregnable positions, we should pursue a strategy of horizontal escalation and capture territory elsewhere. In line with this, Ladakh and northern Sikkim are good locations for a mechanised riposte where Indias forces would sweep down frommountain plains to conduct pincer movements behind Chinese formations, with the hope of breaking troop concentration. Indias air and missile power would aid these mechanised incursions into Tibet, as part of a wider theatre strategy.

Rehman argues, however, that notwithstanding this Indias approach to conventional deterrence has certain limitations. While Indian planners have moved toward adopting a more-offensive form of area denial, they continue to rely, for the most part, on conventional forces that could be overcome or circumvented in the event of a fast-moving, localised, and limited border confrontation launched from higher elevations. This leads to several problems. India is reliant on dispersed, poorly equipped paramilitary forces like the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) as its first line of defence in many of the forward areas most vulnerable to Chinese aggression. The nature of the topography is such that conventional troops, which are substantially stationed in lower altitudes, are relatively static  moving them from lowlands is challenging, and while they wind up mountain roads and valleys during conflict they are vulnerable to artillery, missile or air strikes.

Read | Indias tanks at LAC could affect investments: Chinese media

These weaknesses can be addressed, in Rehmans view, by a greater complementarity between conventional forces and Special Operations Forces that can play a critical role behind enemy lines, conducting sabotage, reconnaissance, and direct-action operations. SOFs can be used to strike airbases, reconnaissance assets and disrupt build-up of PLA forces. SOFs are also useful to counter gray zone aggression described by Michael Mazarr as sequences of gradual steps to secure strategic leverage, which would include Pakistans covert action and Chinas use of infrastructural development to cement territorial claims. In view of their utility, Rehmans surveys in some detail Indias SOFs, their composition, mandates, operational challenges and deficiencies, which will no doubt be pored over by planners (and adversaries).

Some aspects of Rehmans diagnosis need immediate attention though. Road and rail projects in border areas continue to be delayed. As of May 2016, only twenty-one of sixty-one border road projects designated strategic had been completed. Twenty eight strategic railway lines were sanctioned in 2010, six years later none have been finalized. Chronic shortfalls in essential equipment continue, including parachutes, night vision devices, high-altitude clothing and even aluminium, belt-attachable water bottles. SOFs have expanded too rapidly in size and in ad hoc manner, without the benefit of careful, deliberate planning  and in numerous cases battalions have had to operate with inferior equipment sourced from infantry. There is not enough training capacity to cope with expanded forces. Attrition levels are high; most special forces units have an officer shortfall of 25-30%.

Perhaps the greatest set of challenges lies in the organizational domain, writes Rehman. Like other analysts, he calls for restructuring around a Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC) to harmonise the large number of SOFs, address inter-service rivalry and bring about greater strategic and doctrinal clarity.

Rehmans paper is a remarkable piece of scholarship that serves Indias defence establishment well. One cannot help but wonder reading it why such an important work on India-China conflict happens to be the product of a western institution rather than an Indian one. There are certainly some outstanding international relations scholars in India, who happen to be productive in spite of the prohibitive climate they operate in. It is worth considering the conditions needed for producing valuable academic work. A paper like Rehmans has a gestation period (requiring institutional support for scholars to pursue time-taking endeavours), it needs financial support, to create congenial conditions for research and to travel for fieldwork and interviews, and it needs access to establishment figures. Indian scholars based in India can rarely count on these; they are more likely to be underpaid and undervalued by the establishment.

Most importantly, a paper like this needs a strategic and intellectual ecosystem that values critical voices and contrarian thinking. Politicians must know that such rigorous scrutiny serves the public good  and that fine academic work is a product of the habits of thought that are nurtured in institutions, principally universities. If universities are instead turned into receptacles of conformity then India will not have the expertise that great powers need. It will also not establish institutions that will have the credibility and influence to define the debate abroad. Right now a paper originating in a western institution is initiating a conversation on India-China conflict. There is, by contrast, no piece of Indian work on American democracy that shapes the debate in the US on the age of Trump.

The author tweets as @SushilAaron

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Bharatiya Janata Party President Amit Shah on Saturday took a dig at Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi, saying if he were to get married, his yet-to-be-born child would be anointed the next leader of the opposition party.

He was responding to a pointed query on whether giving tickets to family members of senior BJP leaders amounted to promoting dynastic rule after the release of the party manifesto for the upcoming Uttar Pradesh assembly elections.

He said Rahul Gandhis family was an example of dynastic politics in the country.

... it was decided that after Nehru, it would be Indira (Gandhi); after her, Rajiv bhai; and after him, Rahul Gandhi... that is what we are opposed to, Shah said.

The BJP chief claimed giving tickets to the kin of MLAs and MPs was not dynastic politics.

Asked if the an alliance between Rahul Gandhis party and Samajwadi Party of chief minister Akhilesh Yadav will make any difference to the BJPs prospects in Uttar Pradesh, Shah replied in the negative.

The alliance poses no challenge to us, he said, adding that in the new alliance, only the Samajwadi Party was of some consequence.

Akhilesh has looted the state while Rahul Gandhi has looted the country; now both are planning to plunder Uttar Pradesh jointly but the people are wise enough, he added.
Music blasts on a cold Wednesday morning as a 500-strong crowd watches a publicity video on a big screen at the Sangrur grain market. It is foggy and their teeth are chattering, but they remain rooted to the spot in grim determination.

After all, they are Akali supporters, and its not every day that they get to see their icon  Punjab chief minister Parkash Singh Badal  in the flesh.

But still, the rally organisers are anxious because most of the chairs laid out at the venue are empty. They ask the usually punctual Badal to come a little late, hoping to garner a respectable crowd by then. The strategy pays off. When the chief ministers Toyota Land Cruiser rolls in 35 minutes later, the place is packed to the brim.

Badal, who is here to campaign for sitting Akali MLA Parkash Chand Garg, is welcomed with a siropa (a garment bestowed upon a person as a mark of honour). After a few customary speeches, it is his turn to speak.

It doesnt start well. Even as the chief minister takes the mike, a small group of people starts shouting slogans and waving black flags at him. Policemen deployed at the venue swing into action, shooing them out in a matter of minutes.

However, the 89-year-old political warhorse remains unperturbed. He dismisses the slogan-shouting bunch as troublemakers who know nothing else, and then goes on to launch a scathing attack on the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). This is a war between vikas (development) and vinash (destruction). Peace and brotherhood are on one side, and disruptive forces are on the other. AAP leaders tell people to throw stones and disrupt our meetings. They have links with people who create trouble and disturb peace. Strengthening such a party will be a sin, he thunders.

Badal accuses AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal of promoting his own political interests, and doing nothing for people from the state. Kejriwal is also the Delhi chief minister. Delhi has a huge population of Punjabis, but there is not a single Punjabi minister in his government, he says.

The chief minister then targets the Congress, which  according to him  let down the people of Punjab in both political and religious matters. They divided Sikhs and Hindus, snatched our capital (Chandigarh) and tried to take our water. When (then Prime Minister) Indira Gandhi performed the ground-breaking ceremony of the SYL canal, Amarinder was present. Duja jeda hai, woh Dilli aala, kehnda hai Punjab da paani, saare Hindustan da hai (Kejriwal claims he belongs to Punjab and whole India). He is from Haryana... he was born there. We have to save Punjab from them, he tells the gathering, alleging that people who indulged in violence over the Guru Granth Sahib desecration enjoyed political patronage.

Badal then adopts a preachy tone, presenting himself and the SAD-BJP alliance as the sole protectors of peace. The crowd doesnt sound impressed. But when he moves on to listing the sops announced in his manifesto  ghee, sugar, gas stoves and pressure cookers  loud cheers break out.

We will deliver on our promises. Keep away from AAP and Congress, because both these parties are gapod shanks (blabbermouths), he advises the people, winding up the 28-minute speech.

Playing the Punjabiyat card

The five-time chief minister is addressing three election rallies a day, toiling hard to battle the strong undercurrent of anti-incumbency his party faces. While age may have slowed him down, Badals speeches retain their sarcasm in election campaigns marked by mud-slinging, taunts and threats.

Punjabi identity is the common thread that runs through his speeches, apart from attempts to kindle some righteous Sikh anger by reminding the people of the excesses committed by the Congress in the past  especially Operation Bluestar.

Badals next halt is at a local dana mandi (grain market) in Dirba, where the Akali Dal has fielded kabaddi player Gulzar Singh. The crowd that has gathered here is impressive. Welcomed with loud cheers, an elated Badal begins by thanking the people for turning up in such large numbers. Then he moves on to praise the partys candidate in the constituency. Gulzar sone di dali hai (Gulzar is a gold bar). I have seen him play many matches in the Kabaddi Olympics. He will win gold in political kabaddi as well, says Badal.

While both AAP and the Congress find themselves at the receiving end, the rookie party bears the brunt of Badals barbs. Hitting out at Kejriwal and his supporters for hurting religious sentiments by featuring the broom  its party symbol  alongside a picture of the Golden Temple on its manifesto, he says: They have no understanding of Sikh ethos. They only want to mislead the people and come to power.

Next, Badals cavalcade heads out to Moonak in Lehra, an impregnable fortress of the Congress, for his last public meeting of the day. In this assembly segment, former chief minister Rajinder Kaur Bhattal is pitted against Punjab finance minister Parminder Singh Dhindsa  also described as sone di dali by Badal.

There can be no candidate better than him. When a government is formed, the most capable person gets the finance (ministry), the chief minister says, before moving on to blast his political rivals.

The Congress has hurt the interests of Punjab. AAP khumbi ji ug gayi (AAP has come up like a mushroom). If such people come to power, where will they take Punjab? No one trusts them. They remind me of tutte je (ramshackle) trucks on roads with old bodies and worn-out tyres, but have Chal baliye tera rab hi rakha (Girl, God will take care of you) written on their backsides, he says, drawing loud guffaws from his supporters.

With this, Badal wraps up his agenda for the day. But then, with the election slated to be held on February 4, he can afford no rest until victory is attained. Or not.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed an election rally in Goas capital Panjim on Saturday ahead of the state assembly election, slated for February 4.

The Goa rally came a day after the PM addressed a public meeting in Punjabs Jalandhar to muster support for ruling Shiromani Akali Dal-Bharatiya Janata Party (SAD-BJP) coalition, which is battling anti-incumbency after 10 years of rule.

Taking on the Congress, Modi accused it of bad mouthing Punjabs youth over the drug issue.

Here are the highlights of PMs rally in Panjim:

 I feel content when I see Goas development sitting in Delhi.

 Goa government is an excellent example of all-round development. The only issue plaguing the state is political instability

 This campaign is an attempt to rid Goa of a disease. The biggest disease of Goa is unstability. Goa has seen more than 12 chief ministers in ten years.

 Goa govt has carried out tourism centric infrastructure development and the Centre has relaxed visa norms to promote tourism.

 I urge Goans to give BJP a comfortable majority to BJP in the state elections. We will make it the most comfortable place in the country.

 Some parties are preparing their drafts ahead of the February 1st budget, in order to attack us the moment we release it.

 Goa has given a very strong defence minister to the country. Everyone around the world is talking about surgical strikes
The Samajwadi Party may be known for the Yadavs, but in this election, the party has witnessed the rise of a new dynasty  the Khans.

Back in 2014, Abdullah Azam Khan was a student in a Noida university, pursuing his M.Tech in civil engineering. He lived in a hostel and then a paying guest accommodation with friends. But the seeming normalcy of student life could not conceal the fact that he was the son of UPs most powerful and controversial Muslim leader, Azam Khan.

The Election Commission had banned the Samajwadi Party (SP) minister from addressing public rallies because of communal utterances. But in SP tradition, whenever Mulayam Singh or chief minister Akhilesh Yadav visited Rampur, Azam Khan hosted them.

Who would do it now?

Abdullah Azam Khan was called back home. And he was assigned the task of welcoming the chief minister at a public rally in the district. Khan recalls, I told my father that people begin on a small scale and then slowly rise. You are throwing me straight at the top with the chief minister. Are you going to bring me down after this?

The younger Khan got a taste of politics, returned home the following year, began managing the Jauhar university set up by his father, and is now the SP candidate from the Swar constituency of Rampur.

Still single, his life is now consumed by the election.

He attributes it to that coincidence in 2014, and claims politics was never a part of the plan. With a laugh, he says, Otherwise I would not have studied so much. I was even planning to start a PhD programme in engineering.

The Rampur contest is significant for three reasons. The 26-year-old Khan is contesting against another dynasty  the Nawab of Rampur, Kazim Ali Khan. A win would mark the emergence of a new political dynasty in UP. And the sons politics appears less belligerent than his father.

Is it a crime to be a Muslim?

Sitting in the SP office in Rampur, Azam Khan  who played a role in mediating the rift between Mulayam and Akhilesh Yadav  says the UP election of 2017 will determine whether India would retain its secular norms, whether it would be the country of Gandhi or Godse.

But BJP has been in power for almost three years, and the secular character of the constitution has not changed. So why this alarmism if it comes to power in Lucknow?

Khan senior replies, BJP does not have the required majority in Parliament to do it. And the Supreme Court is alive. That is what has preserved the Constitution.

HT asked Azam Khan about the perception that he practised Muslim communal politics as well. Should I feed them poison? No, but should he not speak of other communities too if he was secular? Why? Arent Muslims a part of this community? How many articles are there in the constitution dealing with minorities? So you dont believe in the constitution either; you will ask me questions against the constitution. Is it such a crime to be a Muslim? Is it a crime to uplift them?

His son, Abdullah, claims Muslim insecurity has risen with Modi.

They have called us haraamzaada. The PM equated us with pups. They have said snatch away Muslim voting rights. Obviously, the Muslim is insecure, he said.

Balancing act

But beyond the similarities, there is also a distinction in both the style and substance of the message of the father and son.

There has been a death of a supporter in Swar. As Abdullah drives down in his SUV to the burial  pointing to the poor roads as a sign of the areas under-development  he is polite, waving to supporters on the way. He clearly derives his support from being his fathers son, but is capitalising on the youth factor to expand his base.

When asked how his politics is different from that of his father, Khan junior says, There is an upgradation that happens with time. When he started politics, issues of social justice and equality were very important. People needed security. Today, while these issues are important, people are more educated, better off. They now want development along with security. What politics now demands is a balance.

Khan says that he believes in politics that speaks to both these concerns  and there should be social security for everyone.

Be it Muslims or even Hindus in Muslim-dominant areas, every should be secure and develop, he says.

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In 2014, BJP won 42% of the vote in Uttar Pradesh. This was a remarkable jump from the 15% vote share it had during the 2012 elections. And that is why the upcoming election in UP is for the BJP to lose.

When it started out, the BJP narrowed on a three-course campaign menu.

In terms of issues, a top BJP strategist told Hindustan Times in November, it would target the Samajwadi Party (SP) government on law and order and corruption, and promise development.

In terms of leadership, it would project PM Narendra Modi and local leaders.

And in terms of arithmetic, it would rely on 50-60% of the electorate  the upper castes, the non-Yadav OBCs, and the non-Jatav Dalits. For too long, we have been confined to 20% upper castes. We have to expand our party among OBCs, among women and youth, and in rural areas, said the strategist then.

To boost the campaign, it added two additional elements  the surgical strikes to portray a strong government which had taught Pakistan a lesson; and demonetisation as an exercise which had taught the rich a lesson, in the process transforming the party into a pro-poor force.

We are now a party of the poor. In one stroke, the suit boot ki sarkar tag has gone, a BJP UP spokesperson had declared in November.

A fortnight before the first phase of elections in UP, the elaborate spread has not worked out: the party is instead relying on one-and-a-half dishes. It is not just deprived of local leaders, it is also now working without an agenda. All it has going for it is Modi, and careful caste arithmetic.

This may still be enough to get the 30% or so votes required to scrape through, but clearly it cannot conceal the crisis underway.

Losing the narrative

So what has gone wrong?

The problem is that the BJP today is fighting the election without a grand narrative. None of its campaign issues are resonating on the ground, or even being articulated forcefully.

Take it one by one.

The BJP had thought law and order would be its big plank this election. But then it encountered a problem. The voter often remembers the final year or two of a governments tenure. While the SP regime undoubtedly had a poor record in maintaining order, controlling riots in the first two to three years, Akhilesh Yadav eventually got a grip on the law and order situation. Schemes like Dial 100  where people can directly call a centralised police control room in Lucknow  have helped in creating an impression that the government is serious about cracking down on crime. And so the anti-incumbency factor that used to exist against, say a Mulayam-led SP government at the end of his tenure on the law and order question has diminished considerably. Akhilesh was also able to shed the goonda image of the SPs old guard in the recent family feud. The bruising feud also help shape a public perception that Akhilesh was not averse to taking on the goons.

But for those for whom law and order is a pressing concern, it is BSP chief Mayawati who seems a better alternative, notwithstanding the entry of the Ansari family. In west UP pockets, as this reporter travelled with BSP candidates, the repeated refrain was there was peace under Behenji, that she knew how to control the administration, that under her both a lion and goat could drink water from the same well - denoting how the law was equal for all. If law and order becomes a big issue, BSP - at least in west UP, and not the BJP, is best positioned to take advantage of it.

And while the issue of corruption may have benefited the BJP, it has got linked to demonetisation. In the first month after the note ban, there was euphoria as the poor, the rural affluent, as well as the professional middle classes saw it as a move against the countrys corrupt elements. By the end of the second month, the enthusiasm had evaporated. The benefits remained elusive although the pain was tangible, but there was no hostility either. Almost three months down the road, there is visible dissatisfaction among the most poor segments - daily wage labourers, construction workers, farm labour - and certain communities - Muslims and Dalits in particular, and traders.

Counter intuitive as it may sound, despite its disruptive implications, voting may not necessarily happen on the issue of the note ban but other local factors. But if at all there is voting on this, it may work against BJP. Three BJP MLA candidates - from different parts of the state - told HT that they expect a drop in turnout of a section of their core supporters because of this issue. Many of these candidates are thus hoping that people would forget about demonetisation; and they dont seem to raise it vocally in their campaign. The profiles of the candidates also do not help. It is one thing for Modi - with his clean image and austere background  to raise it. But from candidates who come from prosperous backgrounds, and are involved in multiple businesses, sermons on how the rich have lost does not quite strike a chord. So for most part, they prefer not to raise it except a casual reference.

Till four months ago, we were attacking SP for corruption. Now we have to defend our own economic record, one candidate told HT.

The third issue the BJP had thought it would be able to monopolise was development. But this is where Akhilesh Yadav - irrespective of whether he wins or not  has wrested an advantage over the party. Today, across communities and regions, there is an acknowledgment  even if it is grudging among non-supporters  that Akhilesh has worked. Kaam to kiya hai. He has cleverly combined infrastructure (expressway, metro, roads), welfare (pensions, ambulances) and modern aspirations (laptops, smartphones) while carving out a development image for himself. The BJP has not yet been able to offer specifics to counter it.

And no one in UP, not even the BJP anymore, is talking about the surgical strikes anymore. Only three months ago seemed like the big game-changer in the elections. Constituents, when pressed, will say the government did well in responding to Pakistan; it has boosted Modis image but it is not something that is a potential determinant of local voting patterns.

All of this has meant that the BJP is left, in west UP particularly, with only one issue  Hindu pride, and need for revenge against SP for its Muslim appeasement. But from a pan-UP perspective, the party and its candidates on the ground are struggling to deliver a coherent, focused, new message that appeals to the diverse electorate.

Leadership and arithmetic

Early on, the BJPs crisis of local leadership became apparent. It was not able to project a CM face.

This was either because Modi-Amit Shah did not want any other leader to grow in stature in the Hindi heartland; or because there was no such leader who had the stature to take on the established faces of the state; or because the tallest leader from the state  Rajnath Singh  was unwilling to go or was not deployed; or because it would have upset the fragile caste coalition - an upper caste CM face would alienate the OBCs and vice versa; or because of all the above reasons.

Instead, the BJP put up four faces on the poster  Singh as the Thakur face, Uma Bharti as the Lodh face, Kalraj Mishra as the Brahmin face, and state president Keshav Maurya as the OBC face. The problem is that when there is no certified CM face, then no leader is accountable  and no leaders support base puts in all its might. That is what has happened; except Maurya, none of the other leaders are really invested in the campaign, and Maurya himself is the weakest link of the four. The fact that many other district level leaders feel alienated over ticket distribution has not helped.

And this means that on the leadership question, BJP is left just with half a dish  PM Modis face. He is still enormously popular; few doubt his intentions and work ethic; and he is still seem as the best leader India can have. But the contribution of the local leadership to the battle is minimal.

What BJP still has going for it is arithmetic.

A substantial section of the upper castes  except maybe Bania traders directly hit by demonetisation, and community members of upper caste candidates of other parties in particular candidates  are likely to vote for the BJP. A large element of the Jat, Pal, Saini, Prajapati, Kuswaha, Kashyap, Maurya, Lodh, Kurmi vote may also go to the party. And the Muslim vote could well get fragmented between SP-Congress and BSP  an essential pre-requisite for a BJP win.

What this means is that if BJP wins, it will have Modis image and careful caste management to thank. It will not be because of a story it has told UPs 200 million people, a promise it has made or delivered on, the local leadership it has groomed, or the dreams it has offered. From an election that should have been a walkover, UP 2017 has become a real battle for the BJP.

(The views expressed are personal. The author tweets as @prashantktm)

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Trump has accepted Merkel's invitation to come in July at G20 summit in Hamburg and also has invited the Chancellor to visit Washington, Sputnik reported.

US President Donald Trump has accepted German Chancellor Angela Merkel's invitation to come in July at G20 summit in Hamburg and also has invited the Chancellor to visit Washington in near future, the German government reported.

In a phone call between the two leaders, Trump and Merkel also agreed to step up joint fight against terrorism and work together for stabilization in the crisis regions.

"They also agreed to intensify their cooperation aimed at fighting terrorism and violent extremism as well as stabilization of the situation in the Middle East," the statement said.

According to the German government, the two leaders also discussed relations with Russia.

"Federal Chancellor Angela Merkel and President Donald Trump have held a detailed phone conversation on Saturday evening. A wide range of topics were discussed, particularly, NATO, the situation in the Middle East, as well as in North Africa, relations with Russia," the statement said.
A Hindu-dominated seat is ironically the hotbed of Panthic ire in Punjab over last years incidents of sacrilege of Guru Granth Sahib.

Kotkapura is Prime Minister Narendra Modis next and last stop in the state before it heads for polls on February 4. Here and in adjoining assembly seats of Faridkot, Jaito, Baghapurana and Moga are jathas (followers) of Sikh preachers Panthpreet Singh and Ranjit Singh Dhadrianwale that are quietly asking Sikh voters to punish those behind the sacrilege incidents.

While the first sacrilege incident took place at Bargari village in Faridkot, the police and protesters had clashed at the main chowk of Kotkapura town and later two Sikhs had died in police firing at Behbal Kalan village in the Jaito assembly segment.

Panjgrain Khurd, a village in the neighbouring Baghapurana seat in Moga, had shot to fame after two brothers were arrested and beaten up by cops and later released for want of evidence.

Sitting at their home, brothers Jaswinder, 29, and Rupinder, 23, deny reports that they have joined the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), saying they are religious not political people. But Rupinder, a BA final-year student, admits he is sharing the stage of the AAP and telling people how the Gur Sikh (baptised) family was falsely implicated and beaten up by the police.

The AAP candidates have pictures of the two protesters killed at Behbal Kalan  Gurjeet Singh and Krishan Bhagwan Singh  at its rallies and a pre-recorded telephonic message of party chief Arvind Kejriwal where he is promising to punish the culprits.

Rupinders family alleges it became a target for being followers of Panthpreet, who led protests against sacrilege and later to secure the brothers release, but has since gone silent.

Loki vota naal Badala nu daanga marange (voters will beat ruling Badals with their votes), says a frail-looking Rupinder, who says AAP leader HS Phoolka helped them fight the false police case.

AKALIS PIN HOPES ON PM

As he campaigns for a third win, Kotkapura sitting Akali Dal MLA Mantar Singh Brar is hoping the sacrilege ire will be countered by Modi.

Some angry Sikh voters accuse Mantar of not coming when police clashed with protesters at the towns chowk. But he says the mob was in a mood to lynch Akali leaders and had insulted a Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) member.

They would have killed us as some Sikh radicals were fanning trouble. The AAP has had a pact with radicals that after coming to power they would hand over the reins of the SGPC to them. Mine is a Hindu-dominated seat, who respect PM Modi and his agenda of development, Brar says.

SACRILEGE FUELLING AAP CAMPAIGN

Its the sacrilege anger that seems to be fuelling the campaign of AAP candidate Kultar who dubs the support voluntary and spontaneous.

At Kothey Theh village of Kotkapura where Kultar, grandnephew of former President Giani Zail Singh, was campaigning on Thursday, 26-year-old Gurinder Singh claims there have been 95 incidents of sacrilege in Punjab since last year.

Amandeep Singh, 23, who stands out of the crowd dressed in a robe of 10th Sikh master Guru Gobind Singh, echoes the views of Gurinder that the AAP will punish the culprits of sacrilege.

AAP candidate Kultar Singh, grandnephew of former President Giani Zail Singh, campaigning at Kothey Theh village in Kotkapura. (HT Photo)

It is not just sacrilege, people want jharu (broom) to clean the deep rot set in Punjab by the Akalis and Congress. The youth volunteers are themselves paying for fuel of their motorcycles and joining me from one village to another, Kultar says, adding, many Premis (followers of Dera Sacha Sauda) are also with us and even Hindus are not with Modi.

At his tyre shop in Kotkapura town, Dharampal Taneja says a majority of businesses in Kotkapura, including its grain market, are run by Hindus. Our shops were shut for a week after the clash between protesters and the police. Agar mohol kharab hua toh business ka nauksan hoga (if the situation gets tense, it will hit our business). The Hindus and other urban voters will vote for the Akali-BJP and rural ones for the AAP. The Congress is out of contest after fielding an outsider, Taneja says.

Which way the weighing scales (SAD symbol) will tilt will not just depend on Sikhs and Hindus, but also where Premis and other Dalits, a third of Kotkapuras voters, decide to go.

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With exactly a week to go for the February 4 Punjab assembly elections, Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi trained his guns squarely at deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badal, calling him Indias most corrupt man at a rally in his constituency, Jalalabad of Fazilka district, on Saturday.

The rally launched Congress final assault in the constituency where Sukhbir, who has won twice here, is facing a challenge from Congress MP Ravneet Singh Bittu and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Bhagwant Mann.

A day after formally naming state unit chief Capt Amarinder Singh as the Congress CM candidate, Rahul said Amarinder alone can resolve all the problems plaguing the state.

Alleging that the Badals have a percentage in the liquor business, own a major chunk of the TV business, and also take their share in every other trade, Rahul attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi through it. PM Modi claims to be fighting corruption. Punjab has the maximum corruption in India, and the symbol of that corruption is Sukhbir Badal. Yet, Modi seeks votes for Sukhbir.

(From left) Congress leaders Asha Kumari, Navjot Singh Sidhu, party vice-president Rahul Gandhi and Captain Amarinder Singh during the rally. (Sanjeev Kumar/HT Photo)

Rahul invoked the saintly deeds of the first Sikh master, Guru Nanak and said: Sukhbir Badal claims to protect Sikhism, but his philosophy is of sab mera (everything is mine) is in direct contrast with that of the Guru, who said, sab tera (everything belongs to God).

About the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), he also urged people to call their relatives and friends in Delhi  ask the auto drivers, slum-dwellers, Dalits  to ask about AAP chief and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwals work there. He has spent more on advertising than on the people. And now he wants to leave Delhi and become Punjab CM, Rahul said, adding, Municipal polls are due in Delhi soon, and AAP will be badly beaten. He did not mention Mann.

Of Punjabi pride, Italy and drugs

Seeking to invoke the Punjabi versus outsider line of argument that the Congress and the SAD both have been taking against the AAP, he underlined that his mother, Congress president Sonia Gandhis native town in Italy had had a Punjabi mayor.

He underlined how he was mocked when he said (in 2012) that 70% of Punjabs youth was addicted to drugs. Sukhbir Badal, the Akalis said I had put a question mark over Punjabs youth. I only spoke the truth. And now the entire Punjab, Akalis and AAP are saying it too.

He added, As soon as Capt Amarinder Singh becomes the CM, we will make a tough law against drug smuggling and give their property to the people. He promised that Punjab will be back on track in two years if Congress came to power with Amarinder as CM.

Target poor

He particularly targeted the poor in his speech, counting the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA) as promise delivered by the Congress. Even the atta-dal scheme for which the Akalis take credit is actually a (food security) scheme of the Congress and (former PM) Dr Manmohan Singh.

Read | Rahul woos Dalits in Doaba, says Cong will set up Ambedkar varsity if voted to power

Declaring that being a true Congressman, I cannot make false promises, he returned to Modi, saying, I will not promise Rs 15 lakh in every poor person bank account. Due to false promises, only the poor suffers. He listed the recent demonetisation of old notes of Rs 500 and 1,000 as an example. Did you see any rich person in the queues at banks? he asked the attendees, and also apologised for keeping them waiting for an hour due to the fog.

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The BJP promised on Saturday to push for a controversial temple to Hindu god Ram if it won power in Uttar Pradesh, unveiling an election manifesto that appeared designed to appeal to voters along religious lines.

The partys apparent return to an agenda of Hindutva marks a departure from its initial election narrative built around two of Prime Minister Narendra Modis boldest decisions: The scrapping of high-value banknotes to fight corruption and a surgical strike against militants across the de facto border with Pakistan.

The change in tack also contrasts with the partys election plank three years ago when it swept the political bellwether on a promise of development. The BJPs lurch towards Hindutva comes in the backdrop of an election alliance between the ruling Samajwadi Party and the Congress, which are traditionally backed by Muslims, who form a fifth of the states population.

Read | Goa election: PM Modi says will make state the most comfortable place

The partys election promises included ascertaining opinion of Muslim women over the Islamic divorce practice of triple talaq, closing down illegal slaughter houses and stemming the alleged migration of Hindus from riot-hit Muslim-majority towns in western Uttar Pradesh.

The manifesto, released by party president Amit Shah, also made a raft of populist proposals, including waiving off loans for small farmers, abundant electricity, new hospitals and universities, free school education for girls and free laptops to all college students with one 1 GB free internet a month.

The party also promised to raise anti-Romeo police battalions to tackle crimes against women, a proposal that appeared to ring of a controversial campaign by Hindu groups against love between Hindus and Muslims.

But the charter referred to neither the surgical strikes nor the demonetisation move, although Shah told reporters that the vote could be a referendum on the decision to junk 500-and 1000-rupee notes. Instead, the manifesto appeared to talk up a Hindutva agenda to win back power in a state it last ruled 15 years ago. The state votes in seven phases starting February 11.

A BJP government in UP would press for an early solution to the temple tangle within the ambit of the constitution, Shah said, referring to a disputed religious site that remains Indias most potent communal flashpoint between many Hindus and Muslims.

For decades, both Hindus and Muslims have revered the disputed site in Ayodhya town. In 1992, a Hindu mob tore down a 16th century mosque at the location, saying the Muslim ruler, Babar, destroyed an original temple to Ram and built over.

Muslim groups then appealed to the Supreme Court, which is still hearing the matter.

Read | UP elections: BJP needs poll victory for NDA candidate to become next President

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The 45th president of the United States is not known for his finer feelings towards women. In fact, he feels that he has, in the manner of feudal lords, some sort of droit du seigneur when it comes to women on account of his fame and fortune. So we saw a series of vile remarks being publicised on what Donald J Trump thought about how to treat women. You wonder, did his parents not teach him any better or at least one of his wives or daughters. If only he had got a telling off in school from his teachers. Did he not have the right role models growing up? Probably not, because by and large men are not part of the discourse on issues that concern women, particularly violence against women. Which is worrying considering that they are normally the ones who make the rules and drive the agenda in most nations and more so in countries like India.

Yet, the fight for womens rights and against violence has been driven by womens organisations. I have attended many such meetings and rarely heard male voices though they are so much part of the problem and the solution. Like the family planning programme, it will be far more effective if the fight against gender violence were to involve men. This is no easy task, it takes the undoing of years of conditioning and the gender biases which have become part of the DNA of our societies. In many cases, men dont even seem to think that their more violent actions are necessarily wrong.

Read: 21-year-old JNU student drugged, gang-raped in Delhis Green Park

In her searingly brutal film Anatomy of Violence Deepa Mehta touches on what it takes to make such violent criminals as those who were involved in the December 16 2012 gang rape in Delhi. The male actors in the film are show as being at the receiving end of the brutalisation and horror of years of poverty, in some cases of sexual abuse, domestic violence and lack of any normal access or mingling among the sexes. In a particularly disturbing scene, one of the killers nonchalantly blames the victim and says the fact of her death is not more significant than other deaths including his own impending one after he got the death sentence. At no point, does the film make any excuses for the gut-wrenching violence but it does show that even the concept of right and wrong are so skewed in the lives of many men in India.

Nothing can improve if we do not start thinking much more about involving men in gender justice. It is not that all men are resistant to the idea of playing a greater role in the fight against gender violence. They came out in huge numbers on Delhis streets when the gang rape took place in what was a spontaneous outpouring of grief for the young woman who fought so valiantly to live. For every man who thinks that involvement in female issue somehow reduces his masculinity or challenges his control, there are others who feel the opposite, who are willing to walk the extra mile for womens rights.

But it has to start with the education system where instead of promoting half-baked theories about a glorious past, boys and girls should be educated and made aware of what constitutes violence against women and how this demeans and brutalises us all. There will be resistance, of course, but I dont see that as a permanent barrier.

Read: Lets talk about rape: Turning girls into timid women, boys into bullies

Anatomy of Violence shows that gender discrimination at home gives boys the feeling that they are superior and that women should bend to their will. The good news is that in many countries, India included, there are many more men than ever who want to be work towards gender equality and are not afraid to speak out. There is an increasing awareness that male behaviour affects not just women, but the well being of society as a whole. Men have to be involved in gender violence as they are the main perpetrators of it and without their cooperation, there can be no solution. Women alone, as is largely happening now, are shouldering the burden in the fight against gender violence. We need to hear from men about what motivates violence against women and what they think could be solutions for behavioural change. In many ways, the male head of a household is not just the role model for his sons and other male relatives but he also takes the decisions which can empower women in the family should he chose to. It is only when we have the opinions from a much wider cross section of men that responses and frameworks that really work can be formulated to prevent or at least minimise violence against women.

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Bhopal: A 26-year-old woman hailing from Assam and working in the house of an advocate since last seven years at Bhopal was handed over to her relatives by police after she complained about harassment by the lawyers family.

According to Shahpura police station in-charge Jitendra Patel, the police received a phone call from a resident of a posh colony on Saturday morning informing them about misbehavior with the woman who was living in the neighbours house for several years.

We talked to the woman first over phone and came to know that she hails from Barpeta district of Assam. She along with 20-year-old cousin sister was working in the advocates house since last seven years, Patel told Hindustan Times.

A woman cop was subsequently sent to the house from where the phone call was made and recorded the womans statements.

Subsequently her medical examination was carried out at a hospital, but no traces of physical torture were revealed. With the woman not ready to stay with the family for whom she worked, the police handed her over to relatives. The relatives have promised to send her back to her home town in Assam, said Patel.

Sources in Shahpura police station, meanwhile, confided that the woman had escaped from the advocate s house to a neighbours house (who is possibly a retired IAS officer) on Friday night.

However, with the medical examination of the woman not revealing any physical torture that could amount to a cognizable offence, no case was registered in the matter, said Patel.
Bhopal: Congress party chief whip in the Lok Sabha and Guna MP Jyotiraditya Scindia has written a letter to the union minister for women and child development Maneka Gandhi, expressing his anguish that despite writing to her thrice during the last four months and meeting her personally, there has been no action on the malnutrition deaths in Sheopur district.

Scindia urged Maneka Gandhi to send a special team of central government to investigate the malnutrition deaths in Sheopur and issue necessary directions to the state government.

Scindia said he had written a letter to her on September 14, September 21 and November 18, to draw her attention towards the malnutrition deaths in Sheopur.

Scindia said when he met Maneka Gandhi personally, he had made some suggestions including an arrangement of the best possible health care, nutritious food like food packets for malnourished children and action against the officials responsible for the deaths.

You had assured me that a special team from Centre will be sent to MP and you will also write a letter to the chief minister in this regard. Expressing deep sensitivity towards deaths due to malnourishment in Sheopur, you had assured me that your ministry will take appropriate action and accordingly inform me. But despite your assurance, I have not received any information so far, the letter says.

In the letter, Scindia said in the last four months there was no improvement in the situation (in Sheopur).

In September and October 2016, 116 children died due to malnutrition. Instead of showing decline, the malnutrition in the district is increasing consistently. The number of malnourished children, which was 22,708 in October 2016, has increased to 24,448 in December 2016. Because of no action in the last four months, the number of malnourished children has soared by 1740 in just two months. Despite government spending Rs 2.5 crore, the number of malnourished children has increased, Scindia says in his letter.

I request you to treat this situation as an epidemic and take action at the earliest. Think over the suggestions I had given and implement them. I hope you will inform me about the action taken, the letter says.

Interestingly, in the winter session of the state assembly last month, the MP government maintained there had been no deaths due to malnutrition in the Gwalior division and Sheopur district during the last three years.

The reply of the government surprised many as Sheopur district had allegedly reported 116 malnutrition deaths since August last year according to media reports, prompting National Human Rights Commission to issue a notice to the chief secretary Madhya Pradesh in September.

According to the latest data, MP stands second in the context of malnourishment in the entire nation with Bihar topping the list. Over 42 % of the children under 5 years in the state are stunted (height for age), 25.8 % are wasted (weight for height) and 42.8 % are underweight (weight for age), according to health indicators released last year.
Bhopal: A baby born five days back in Bhopal was operated upon at AIIMS, Delhi for a heart ailment on Saturday after he was airlifted from here for the immediate surgery.

He is in a sick newborn care unit (SNCU) and critical. Doctors say they will keep him under observation for at least 3 days. I need prayers of people to the God, said Dev Sharma, father of the baby boy talking to the Hindustan Times on phone.

Sharma said he would like to convey his thanks to the union minister for external affairs Sushma Swaraj and chief minister Madhya Pradesh Shivraj Singh Chouhan for their help. Otherwise, he said, the operation couldnt have been possible. The entire government machinery is helping us, he added.

The baby was airlifted from Bhopal to Delhi on Friday for the heart surgery after his father sought the help of union ministers Sushma Swaraj and JP Nadda and also the chief minister besides the Prime Minister and the PMO among others on Twitter.

Dev Sharma posted his plea for help on January 25, saying, 2 day born baby boy need immediate heart surgery But whole Bhopal do not have 1 doctor to do this plz help (sic).

Swaraj, known to respond on the micro-blogging site, contacted the family, and later posted on Twitter saying the surgery was arranged for at AIIMS Delhi.

We contacted the family and got the medical reports through my Bhopal office. Dr Balram Airan Head Cardiac surgery AIIMS advises an early surgery. We can organise the babys surgery in AIIMS Delhi. The family has to decide, she posted on her Twitter page the next day.

Meanwhile, Sharmas message, which was shared on social media, led to a journalist contacting Bhopals mayor Alok Sharma.

A journalist Rohit contacted me and I then contacted the chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan who is in Chennai. I had a talk with him and requested for an air ambulance to airlift the baby to Delhi. He immediately instructed the authorities concerned. An air ambulance came in the evening and the baby was airlifted to Delhi where he was admitted to AIIMS. Sushma ji took care of arrangements at AIIMS, the mayor told Hindustan Times on Friday.
Bhopal: Over 31,000 people have volunteered, including chief minister and several of his ministerial colleagues for Madhya Pradesh governments novel project on a participatory learning to be held in the state on February 18.

In this initiative, the first of its kind in the state, the volunteers will teach a chapter or a part of it to the school children and hold interactive discussions with them across the state.

AK Parikh , deputy director Rajya Shikshya Kendra told HT that the participatory learning programme Mile Banche Madhya Pradesh (Let us read together) was scheduled to be held in all primary schools on January 28.

But given the response of the people to be volunteers, it has been decided to postpone the programme It will be now held on February 18. The chief minister wants on that day, a volunteer should teach in each one of the 1.2 lakh primarily and middle schools in the state, including the schools run for tribal children, he said.

Parikh said the last day for online registration for volunteering was January 25.

The online registration had started on January 18 on the website www.schoolchalehum.mp.gov.in. But now people can register themselves till February 12. This will help more and more people to volunteer for the novel initiative, he said

Parikh said that CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan had got himself registered online and he will teach at Sanjay Gandhi School in Bhopal while minister of state for education Deepak Joshi will teach at a school in Dewas.

Parikh said the programme was being organised with an aim to develop interest in children towards reading and understanding literature containing knowledge.

Over 31,000 people have volunteered for the initiative so far. Under this programme, public representatives, government employees, motivators of school chale hum campaign, eminent persons, private doctors, engineers, lawyers and ex-students will read a chapter or part of the chapter from the course book or from any book available in the library before the school children and then hold discussions with the children, he said.

Meanwhile, CM Chouhan has appealed to the people to participate in the initiative in greater numbers, go to school, read text books with children and share knowledge with them.
Members of the Indian film fraternity have asked for action against the Shree Rajput Karni Sena, a political outfit, that attacked filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali on Friday. Bhansali was shooting for his film Padmavati in Jaipur, when members of the group abused him physically and vandalised the set. They claimed Bhansali has distorted facts about the life of queen Padmavati in his film and wanted to see the script. Though Bhansali has not filed a police complaint five people have been detained by cops for disturbing peace.

Several actors and filmmakers have condemned the attacks and asked for action against those who abused him. Here are what some actors and filmmakers have to say:

Actor Saif Ali Khan says, I think its shocking and disgusting and really scary. I also think you should be asking the Prime Minister what he thinks should be done about this not us actors who are quite irrelevant. And the legality of these so called political parties should be questioned and they should be arrested. The politicians we vote for should be explaining how this kind of thing can happen. We can say what we like how does it make a difference? I think we are a minority. As in our intellectual views and political views concerning freedom of speech and expression.

Actor Saif Ali Khan

Director Onir says, It is alarming that this is happening and ironically a day after the Republic Day. Today as an artist we find ourselves bring targeted constantly And our freedom of expression snatched. Earlier this used to happen at time of release now its come into the sets. Truly a worrisome development. The entire industry is with Bansali n the entire group responsible for this shameful act should be banned n punished.

Director Onir. (Hindustan Times)

Bipasha Basu: Disturbing as hell. They have to be held accountable for this scary act. Its pathetic.

Actor Bipasha Basu.

Rahul Dholakia: I think we as an industry have to defend ourselves and I urge all filmmakers of all kinds to support and speak up for any film person that is targeted by these thugs. You never know, tomorrow it could be you !

Director Rahul Dholakia. (Prodip Guha)

Rajkummar: Its very shameful and disgraceful. I really hope that whoever is responsible for this gets punished and such inhuman acts should unanimously condemned.

Actor Rajkummar

Swara Bhaskar: This is horrifying and shameful in every which way and totally indefensible. A sad reflection of how INTOLERANT our society is becoming... I am sorry to say but the BJP led govt and its consistent inaction in bringing such vigilante violence to book has emboldened the crazy Hindutva fringe and thus we are seeing these repeated assaults on liberals and artists in India. How will any truly worthy cinema or art ever thrive in India if our artists are answerable to every illiterate violent freak and are vulnerable to such violence.

Actor -Swara Bhaskar.

Sajid Khan: Hooliganism and violence is not the answer. Any issue can be resolved by talking and discussing. What happened with Sanjay Leela Bhansali was very unfortunate.

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If Amitabh Bachchan-starrer Pink created a flutter in 2016 with its content that challenged rigid social concepts, actress Andrea Tariang, who impressed one and all with her performance in the Bollywood film, feels it was the relatable nature of the script that drew her despite linguistic barriers.

Kolkata you were Lit!!! Thank you for all the   A photo posted by Andrea Tariang (@annwallang) on Jan 27, 2017 at 5:31am PST

I was not fluent in Hindi so when my dad called me I did laugh. But when I did decide to go for the auditions anyway, they gave me like a few lines to read and they were in Hindi. It took me really long to figure out four lines, Andrea, who played the role of one of three girls around whom Aniruddha Roy Chowdhurys film revolved, said while speaking at the Tata Steel Kolkata Literary Meet on Friday.

#PINK now on #Netflix  A photo posted by Andrea Tariang (@annwallang) on Jan 23, 2017 at 5:09am PST

But then, when I read the entire script it was really gripping to me. Most women have experienced what we went through in the film, if I am right. So I could relate very well, Andrea said.

The northeast actor, also a guitarist, said she took immense pride in being able to represent the region in a field where not many from that belt get a chance to strut their stuff.

Cold sunny days  A photo posted by Andrea Tariang (@annwallang) on Dec 29, 2016 at 2:49am PST

I was happy to represent the northeast. Because everyone knows many in the northeast are not given a chance to do what I got to do. So, I am really proud that I am able to represent them. Its close to my heart that I dont think if I had to do another film it would top this.

Chowdhury, who hails from West Bengal, revealed the reason why the performances of his actors looked too real in reel.

I told people to feel humiliated. I just did not want the scenes to look fake and was apprehensive. There were scenes which went overboard, but that was required.
Turkish police late on Friday arrested 17 suspected Daesh members, including several foreign nationals, as part of an anti-terror operation in Istanbul, Anadolu reported.

Anti-terrorist teams raided seven addresses of a suspect -- identified only by the initials K.T. -- who is accused of housing suspected foreign Daesh members.

Police said 15 of the suspects held in the Istanbul district of Zeytinburnu were foreign nationals who would be deported.

Elsewhere in Turkey on Friday, a number of Daesh suspects were either arrested or remanded to stand trial on anti-terror charges.

An Ankara court remanded in custody five suspected Daesh members.

In the southeastern providence of Gaziantep, three suspected Daesh members were also remanded in custody on Friday, the local governorship confirmed in a statement.

Gaziantep governorship said the suspects were accused of planning suicide attacks which would have targeted Turkish soldiers travelling to join Operation Euphrates Shield in northern Syria.

Earlier on Friday, police in Turkeys northern Samsun province detained three Iraqi nationals -- believed to be brothers -- on terror charges.

The three men were later transferred to Sakarya province in western Turkey, according to sources who spoke on condition of anonymity.

The brothers were charged with being members of an armed terrorist organization and are also accused of making bombs.

Turkey has taken steps to crack down on Daesh since 2014 when the terror group launched a series of suicide bombings in the country.

Separately, Turkey has also been conducting Operation Euphrates Shield, which began late August 2016 to improve security and eliminate the terror threat from Daesh as well as other terrorist groups along Turkeys border with Syria.
Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali and his crew have cancelled the shooting for his film Padmavati after a fringe group vandalised the sets in Jaipur on Friday for allegedly distorting history about Chittor queen Rani Padmini and 14th century emperor Alauddin Khilji.

Bhansali was slapped and assaulted by Rajput Karni Sena workers who staged a protest at Jaigarh fort in Jaipur where he was shooting the film.

According to TV reports, the National Award-winning director is set to return to Mumbai.

In a video that has gone viral, protesters are seen running amok, damaging cameras and other shooting equipment while raising slogans and spewing abuses in Hindi.

They alleged that the film has love scenes between Rani Padmini and Alauddin Khilji, played by actors Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh.

The incident triggered outrage and drew condemnation from the Bollywood fraternity, which sought to take a stand, even as the Rajput Karni Sena on Saturday defended its action.

Speaking to ANI in Jaipur, founder-patron of the fringe group, Lokendra Singh Kalvi asserted that if history and traditions are not respected then nothing but doom awaits them.

He said Bhansali was to blame for the attack as the Sena was provoked by the film crew and threatened with gun shots. He even demanded a probe on gunshots being fired and permissions to shoot the film.

The Karni Sena claimed that Padmini was a proud queen who took her own life rather than submitting to Khilji, who attacked the Chittorgarh Fort.

Kalvi also dared Bhansali to make a film against Hitler in Germany.

Does Bhansali have the nerve to go to Germany and make a fiction film against Hitler? Even when Jodha Akbar was being made I had raised objections as one cannot insult our blood-spattered history, he said.

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Bollywood director Sanjay Leela Bhansalis team has issued a statement a day after he was attacked by the Shree Rajput Karni Sena on the sets of his upcoming film Padmavati in Jaipur for allegedly distorting historical facts.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali has shot two films in Jaipur and despite his love for Rajasthan, for the safety of his crew, we have decided to stop the shoot and leave the city post the shocking incident where miscreants damaged property and misbehaved with the crew on the shoot of Padmavati, the statement said on Saturday.

The film stars actors Deepika Padukone as queen Padmavati and Ranveer Singh as the Muslim king Alahuddin Khilji. The members of the political outfit attacked Bhansali because they believe that his film shows a romantic alliance between Padmavati and Allauddin Khilji.

The statement from Bhansali Productions said, We clarify that there is no dream sequence or any objectionable scene between Rani Padmavati and Allauddin Khilji. We have been carefully researching and making the film. In spite of this, the attack on the shoot and crew was uncalled for and was extremely damaging to the image of the beautiful city of Jaipur. We are grateful to the authorities at Jaipur who responded promptly and limited the damage on shoot.

Bhansali and Padmavatis team are confident that the films release will support their statement.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali had directed the opera Padmavati to packed houses in Paris and earned worldwide praise for it. He was inspired by the beautiful and courageous queen and is making a feature film on the story. We are confident that Mewar will be proud of the film made on their revered queen. We do not want to hurt any sentiments and would appreciate if the local people support us in making this film and making their queen revered by the world, the statement read.

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Bollywood celebrities, including filmmakers Karan Johar, Farhan Akhtar, Ram Gopal Verma, Anurag Kashyap and Madhur Bhandarkar along with actors Hrithik Roshan and Sonam Kapoor have expressed their anger after Rajput Karni Sena workers created ruckus and vandalised the sets of filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansalis Padmavati in Jaipur. In a series of social media posts, they stressed the entire film fraternity should come together and take a stand.

A gentle reminder sir... a couple of days after republic day if we as an industry have to deal with such humiliation for expressing ourselves , it's frankly very disheartening . Please stand up for us.. #padmavati A photo posted by sonamkapoor (@sonamkapoor) on Jan 27, 2017 at 10:20pm PST

Bhansali was slapped and assaulted on Friday by members of Karni Sena who staged an angry protest at Jaigarh fort in Jaipur where Bhansali was shooting for his next, Padmavati. In a video that has gone viral, protesters are seen running amok, damaging cameras and other shooting equipment while raising slogans and spewing abuses in Hindi.

Favouring the National Award winning director, the Kaabil actor took to Twitter and said, Mr Bhansali , Sir. I stand with you. This is so infuriating!!!!

Sanjay Leela Bhansali was shooting at Jaigarh Palace when protesters entered the sets of Padmavati.

Coming out in defence of the Bajirao Mastani director, Johar tweeted, Am appalled at what has happened with Sanjay Bhansali....this is the time for all us as an industry to stand by our people and fraternity!!

Having been through many instances of turmoil during a film shoot or release...I understand Sanjays emotion at this point...I stand by him, he added.

Describing the recent attack on the noted filmmaker as condemnable, Bhandarkar on Saturday said that acts like these are highly shameful in a country like India.

The ace director, who is known to make films based on ground realities said, Attack on Sanjay Leela Bhansali is condemnable. I strongly condemn the shameful attack.

Akhtar tweeted, My fellow film folk, if we do not unite now against these recurring incidents of bullying, its going to get much worse.

Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) chairman Pahlaj Nihalani on Saturday said that if a stringent action is not taken against the goons of moral ethnicity, the tourism of Rajasthan will soon begin to die. He further said that its not something new that such incident has happened in Rajasthan, as the people over there file court cases by merely watching the teaser of a film.

The CBFC chairman said, If the government doesnt wake up now and take strict measures against such happenings, the Indian cinema industry will begin to wither. People should have patience to wait and judge a film by watching the whole film rather than creating a ruckus by merely watching the teaser.

Veteran actor Raza Murad also said the incident is extremely disheartening and called on the government to take strict action against the guilty. Venting out his anger, the actor said, Seeing all this, I feel the film industry should open a censor office in every corner and send their script for approval to every party. Otherwise the same thing will happen time and again. I am amazed by all this.

There is something called law and order. Who so ever feels like just targets the film industry and its actors. Why do we need Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) if there is a censor board in every nook and corner. There is no space for violation in a democracy. This has to end. The entire film fraternity must come together and the government must take stern action. Otherwise it all seems to be a jungle raj, he concluded.

Taking stand of Bajirao Mastani director, Varma took to Twitter and wrote, Bhansali is an artiste and if any country cannot protect its artistes from street hooligans it doesnt deserve to be called a country.

Supporters of Karni Sena obstruct the shooting of Padmavati at Jaigarh Palace in Jaipur.

Expressing concern, director Anurag Kashyap also took to twitter and called for the entire film industry to come together and take a stand and refuse to be a pony that all bullshit and bullshitters ride on.

Neerja actress Sonam came out in support to voice her concern and tweeted, What happened on Padmavati sets is appalling and heinous. Is this the state of the world.

Below are some tweets supporting Bhansali after the Jaipur incident:

I condemn attack by goons on #SanjayLeelaBhansali. It is unfortunate & shameful. But to give it a communal angel by some is equally shameful  Anupam Kher (@AnupamPkher) January 28, 2017

Am appalled at what has happened with Sanjay Bhansali....this is the time for all us as an industry to stand by our people and fraternity!!  Karan Johar (@karanjohar) January 27, 2017

Having been through many instances of turmoil during a film shoot or release...i understand Sanjay's emotion at this point...I stand by him.  Karan Johar (@karanjohar) January 27, 2017

Thoughts of what has transpired with Sanjay Bhansali today are just not leaving me!! Feeling helpless and angry!! This cannot be our future!  Karan Johar (@karanjohar) January 27, 2017

Yes!! Attacking a filmmaker and his right to free voice is no answer !!! So called historian and moral police!!! Disgusting!!!! https://t.co/BgIxT8doXi  Karan Johar (@karanjohar) January 27, 2017

My fellow film folk, if we do not unite now against these recurring incidents of bullying, it's going to get much worse. #IstandbySLB  Farhan Akhtar (@FarOutAkhtar) January 27, 2017

Mr. Bhansali , Sir. I stand with you. This is so infuriating!!!!  Hrithik Roshan (@iHrithik) January 27, 2017

Did random people enter another persons workplace n raise their hand on him because dey decide dey don't like what he does? I am enraged!!!  Hrithik Roshan (@iHrithik) January 27, 2017

Can once the whole film industry come together and take a stand, and refuse to be a pony that all bullshit and bullshitters ride on??  Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap72) January 27, 2017

At the same time Shame on you Karni Sena, you make me feel ashamed to be a Rajput.. bloody spineless cowards ..  Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap72) January 27, 2017

What happened on Padmavati sets is appalling and heinous. Is this the state of the world.  Sonam Kapoor (@sonamakapoor) January 27, 2017

Several other actors and filmmakers condemned the attacks and asked for action against those who abused Bhansali. Here are what some actors and filmmakers have to say:

Saif Ali Khan: I think its shocking and disgusting and really scary. I also think you should be asking the Prime Minister what he thinks should be done about this not us actors who are quite irrelevant. And the legality of these so called political parties should be questioned and they should be arrested. The politicians we vote for should be explaining how this kind of thing can happen. We can say what we like how does it make a difference? I think we are a minority. As in our intellectual views and political views concerning freedom of speech and expression.

Onir: It is alarming that this is happening and ironically a day after the Republic Day. Today as an artist we find ourselves bring targeted constantly And our freedom of expression snatched. Earlier this used to happen at time of release now its come into the sets. Truly a worrisome development. The entire industry is with Bansali n the entire group responsible for this shameful act should be banned n punished.

Bipasha Basu: Disturbing as hell. They have to be held accountable for this scary act. Its pathetic.

Rahul Dholakia: I think we as an industry have to defend ourselves and I urge all filmmakers of all kinds to support and speak up for any film person that is targeted by these thugs. You never know, tomorrow it could be you!

Rajkummar: Its very shameful and disgraceful. I really hope that whoever is responsible for this gets punished and such inhuman acts should unanimously condemned.

Swara Bhaskar: This is horrifying and shameful in every which way and totally indefensible. A sad reflection of how INTOLERANT our society is becoming... I am sorry to say but the BJP led govt and its consistent inaction in bringing such vigilante violence to book has emboldened the crazy Hindutva fringe and thus we are seeing these repeated assaults on liberals and artists in India. How will any truly worthy cinema or art ever thrive in India if our artists are answerable to every illiterate violent freak and are vulnerable to such violence.

Sajid Khan: Hooliganism and violence is not the answer. Any issue can be resolved by talking and discussing. What happened with Sanjay Leela Bhansali was very unfortunate.

The protesters manhandled the ace director and alleged that the film has love scenes between Queen Padmini and ruler Alauddin Khilji, played by actors Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh.

The Karni Sena claims that Padmini was a proud queen known for taking her own life rather than submit to Alauddin Khilji, the emperor who attacked the Chittorgarh Fort.

Padmini committed Jauhar or immolated herself with scores of other women as Alauddin Khilji waited to conquer the fort and claim her.

The Rajput Karni Sena has demanded that Bhansali should delete such scenes in the film, if any.

(With inputs from Yashika Mathur)

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Following the attack on Sanjay Leela Bhansali in Jaipur on January 27 by the Shree Rajput Karni Sena, The Film & Television Producers Guild of India Ltd. (Guild) has issued a statement backing Bhansali and condemning the attacks. Bhansali had to bear the wrath of the group, whose members beat him up and vandalised the film set because they felt Bhansali is distoring historical facts in his film Padmavati.

The statement reads: The dastardly act of vandalism and assault which happened yesterday on the sets of filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansalis film Padmavati at Jaipur is extremely unfortunate, deplorable and totally unacceptable to the Indian film industry. The Film & Television Producers Guild of India Ltd. (Guild) in unison with the entire film fraternity strongly condemns this despicable episode and expresses its absolute and unflinching support to Sanjay Leela Bhansali.

Guild President Siddharth Roy Kapur in no uncertain terms said As President of The Film & Television Producers Guild of India and speaking on behalf of the entire film industry, I strongly condemn the acts of vandalism on the sets of Padmavati as a direct attack on freedom of expression in our democracy. The film industry has become the softest target for any fringe group looking for media attention, and we need the strongest possible intervention from the concerned authorities to end this and to end it now. We stand united and unflinching in our support of Sanjay Leela Bhansali, and urge the Government of India and the State Government of Rajasthan to take immediate steps to ensure the strongest possible punitive action is taken against these miscreants, so it serves as a deterrent in preventing the recurrence of such unacceptable events in the future.

The distressing part is that this is not the first time that fringe elements have unilaterally taken the law into their own hands to disrupt shoots/film releases and cause tremendous financial losses to film producers. The film Jodhaa Akbar was also not permitted to release in Rajasthan by the same group despite censor certification.

It is a glaring paradox that on the one hand the Central Government, various State Governments along with the film fraternity has been leaving no stone unturned to universally project India as an attractive shooting locale and on the other such hands miscreants are resorting to hooliganism of the worst order to defeat the Shoot in India endeavor. Such disparaging incidents not only discourage our film makers to shoot in India with them preferring to travel abroad for shoots, but also puts foreign producers on the alarm against prospective plans to shoot in Indian locales. The sordid story of these debilitating turn of events is that such misinformed individuals/organizations are not even realizing the structured and methodical manner in which the process of film making evolves at the shooting/release stage and further at the time of certification clearance from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).

The Guild makes a strong plea to the concerned ministries and authorities to promptly initiate stringent measures against these elements to send out a strong message to other misinformed individuals/bodies that such acts will not be tolerated in the future and thereby provide a timely deterrent against the repetition of these unacceptable incidents.

(Issued by the Film & Television Producers Guild of India Limited)

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As the incidence of crime against women continues to increase in India, feminist discourse has acquired greater relevance than ever. Eighteen voices (women with varied backgrounds and histories) in this non-fiction collection, Walking Towards Ourselves: Indian Women Tell Their Stories, spell out what it means to be a woman in India in a time of intense and incredible change. Yet, one cannot but admit the more things change the more they remain the same  especially regarding the majority of the populations mindset which, even in urban India, is firmly rooted in patriarchy. Despite the hostile environment more and more women, regardless of the stratum of society they hail from, are constantly rediscovering and reinventing themselves.

Writer and publisher, Namita Gokhale, says in the foreword, In a society where womens minds as well as their bodies are perceived as belonging to their fathers, their brothers and their husbands, women write about sexuality to test the limits of autonomy, to take charge of their intellect and creativity. This indeed is a crucial step where womens freedom and empowerment has clear limits.

A blend of young and old voices (most of them well known; one anonymous) provides the book variety and perspective. Perhaps it isnt surprising that the younger writers come across as more candid and emphatic, while the older ones sound milder and more circumspect in their writing. Overall though, the compilation is a smooth concatenation of mini-memoirs. It isnt possible to delve upon each piece individually, but that hardly makes any less significant than the others. The scope of the subject is so vast and the repertoire of women writers so great, that sequels or series could  and perhaps should  be a distinct possibility.

Some narratives are more hard-hitting than others, while some have more heart. Annie Zaidis piece, for instance, is one of the most appealing and memorable. She speaks about her life as a journalist, about the limited options women had in terms of career when she was young and the way working women were generally perceived: The commute was tough, the deadline pressure insane, harassment was a possibility that lay in wait at every corner. But my greatest worry was not finding a toilet when I needed one [] The official excuse was that women didnt use them anyway and that if toilets were open, they might be used for other purposes.

Being denied the most basic rights and amenities, besides being subjected to various injustices and humiliations has always been a matter of course for Indian women. This collection brings them firmly into focus. Several contributors have mentioned the Indian obsession with fair skin, especially while seeking matrimonial alliances. A finalist at the Miss India beauty pageant, Ira Trivedi, who spent a few years working at a marriage bureau, says, here in Punjab, the Mecca of fair skin, I realize how pervasive the obsession with fair skin is [] cast doesnt hold as much status as before [] so because of the lack of any other metric, people are using skin colour to judge class. Rosalyn DMello, on the same theme, reveals: Once, two women who were walking towards me on a street in Mumbai [] noticed how my colour resembled a black cats and spent a fair amount of time manoeuvring their gait so as to avoid crossing my path.

Catriona Mitchell, Editor of the book (Picture used with the publishers permission)

Mitali Saran talks about being a wildly independent woman in a country obsessed with marriage; Tishani Doshis bold and poignant piece reveals her thoughts on the concept of motherhood and choosing not to be one; Margaret Mascarenhas speaks of gender identity flux and an affair with another woman; Sharanya Manivannan discusses how she turned the traditional Indian symbols of marriage around (sari, bindi, toe rings, etc) to make a different kind of statement (marriage to her art); the anonymous writers narrative about being chained to fear and violence is tremendous.

Read more: She lit a flame: December 16 Delhi gang rape and its impact on lives, laws

Almost all the writers have mentioned the December 16, 2012 gang rape incident as the turning point in Indian history regarding altering laws in favour of women victims. In this context, the preface by Justice Leila Seth, who was directly involved in the case, becomes pertinent.

Even without the detailed preliminaries this collection would have made a mark. Ideally, it should be compulsory reading at every university regardless of the students gender or specialization. The fundamental theme, i.e., respect for all women should, in fact, be introduced at kindergarten level so that tomorrows women do not have to grow up with such horror stories .

Divya Dubey is the publisher of Earthen Lamp Journal, the Editor/Instructor at Authorz Coracle, and the author of Turtle Dove: A Collection of Bizarre Tales.
I still have crystal clear recollection of my first encounter with that strange beast known as a fashion designer. I was just out of college, working on my first job at a weekly magazine (now sadly defunct) called Sunday, when I was sent off to work on a story on the burgeoning design revolution in India. This was in the late 80s when fashion design was a concept largely unknown in this country. But there were a few early pioneers who were trying to sell us the concept of designer lehengas and couture kurtas.

So, there I was, on a hot summer day, at the south Delhi house of the late great Rohit Khosla. I entered his office  set up in the garage of the family home  to find him hard at work behind his desk. Ah, he said, looking up to greet me, and flashing the most dazzling smile that has ever been bestowed upon me, Im glad to meet a girl who is not afraid of colour!

Quite frankly, until that moment I hadnt realised that colour was something to be afraid of. But as I looked down at my parrot green kurta, paired with a bright orange churidar and a psychedelic dupatta that took in all colours of the rainbow and some that didnt even exist in nature, I had to concede that the man had a point.

I was a girl who was not afraid of colour.

But that was not some act of conscious bravery. It is just that, growing up in India, I had never seen colour as something to be afraid of. It was just a part of life, and I embraced it as matter of course as I went about my daily business.

On that day, however, I realised that this was something of an Indian peculiarity. We were the only ones who were not scared of wearing something in searing red or brilliant yellow. Or, as Khosla explained kindly to me, quoting the legendary fashion doyenne, Diana Vreeland, Pink is the navy blue of India.

Or, to put it less pithily, just as the West regards navy blue as a safe colour, a neutral shade that works best in all circumstances, we, in India, regard bright shocking pink in much the same way.

Vreeland apparently made this observation based on the clothes worn by the women of Rajasthan, they of the bandhini ghagras and lehriya dupattas coloured in shades of crimson, saffron and, yes, magenta. But frankly, this is as true of the rest of India as well.

Last week, celebrated chef Vikas Khanna put up this pic on Twitter and captioned it: What would the world be without colors

Wherever you travel in our country, you will find men and women who are not afraid of colour. Who, like me in more innocent times, dont even realise that colour is something to be afraid of. They just routinely pick up that turquoise sari or that orange shirt in the morning as they are getting dressed and go about their business without worrying about how brightly coloured their clothes are.

Travel in Punjab and you will find that the turbans of the men are as colourful as the salwar kameezes of the women. Go down south and you will be blown away by the brightly patterned lungis and the high contrast saris of the women on the street. Both Gujarat and Rajasthan use the most colourful dyes in their bandhej techniques. And then, of course, theres Bengal, with its jewel-hued tants, Tangails and Dhakais, where all the women seem to believe that red blouses go with everything (Hey, what do I know? Maybe theyre right!).

These sights are so common, the colours so much a part of our daily life, that we dont see them as something out of the ordinary. Colour is something that we do quite effortlessly and without giving it much thought. We will pair a red churidar with a purple kurta. We will wear a green sari with a pink blouse. We will wear purple from head to toe. We will stick on an orange bindi for good measure. We are not afraid of colour.

Which is why I am always surprised when I come across fashion features in foreign publications titled: Scared of the bold colour palette of this season? Heres how to wear it!

The feature nearly always dispenses mealy-mouthed advice like just stick to one strong statement piece and pair it with a neutral shade (which roughly translates as if youre wearing a bright yellow jacket, make sure you pair it with cream or black trousers; or maybe blue jeans if you are really pushing the boat out). Or even start off with an accessory and then gradually ease yourself into the big-ticket items (in other words buy a green pair of shoes or an orange bag if youre too much of a wuss; and then try and work your courage up to get into that stonking pink overcoat!).

Well, if you ask me, these colour cowards should just take a leaf out of our brightly-coloured book and go the full Monty. Ditch those dark trouser suits and go in for a strong burgundy. Throw out the safe monochromes and explore the possibilities inherent in strongly-contrasting shades. Eschew those pale pastels and embrace the strength of reds, blues and pinks. Go on, do it already. You have nothing to lose but your boring beige and grey.

Pink may or may not be the navy blue of India. But colour certainly is the very soul of India.

From HT Brunch, January 29, 2017

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Lets be very clear here. Nokia was the number one in the mobile phone business. Barring none! By a long shot. Absolutely nothing and no one came close! Nokia dominated the market to the point that it was a hopeless pursuit to even try and compete. There was Nokia on one side and then there was everyone else combined on the other side. And then, in a series of missteps so baffling, so comical and frankly so stupid  they lost it all!

But its back

For die hard fans and the romantics amongst us, the biggest piece of news for 2017 is three words. Nokia is back! But it is not the Nokia we knew. The new Nokia is a pretty convoluted arrangement. Nokia, the original company, has licensed its brand name and IP to a new company called HMD Global. But HMD Global wont be manufacturing the Nokia phones, it has outsourced that to a Foxconn sub-company called FIH Mobile. Really confusing, right? But eventually what matters is that Nokia is back and if it does all the right things, it could do something very dramatic and change the current mobile phone game! Heres what I think could be make or break for the new Nokia.

Play the warm and fuzzy game

The name Nokia still evokes a lot of nostalgia and loyalty. The new Nokia needs to capitalise on it and ensure it comes in hard and strong from the start. It cant begin the innings in a small way but needs to come in swinging a big bat and hit the ball out of the ground in as many countries as possible. It needs people to have the new Nokia phones in their hands and to become its brand ambassadors. It needs to bring back the days when the Nokia ringtone was the most identifiable piece of sound in the entire world.

A smartphone with a gaming system, the N-Gage was meant for the compulsive gamer

Slam dunk the differentiator game

Nokia stood for real innovation and also took risks. Unlike most of the current mobile phone companies, they never played safe, innovated all the time and pulled off the impossible. Think about it. They actually had a round-shaped phone, a phone built only for gamers with gaming controls built in, a phone with a 41 megapixel sensor (other companies still havent matched that till today), brightly-coloured phones with polycarbonate unibody design, a wireless charging phone when no else knew how to spell that and a slew of other firsts. They need to do that with each new phone.

Differentiate and stand out. In stunning design, in never before features, in all new materials, in camera and optics  they need to shake things up hard and fast. A Nokia phone always had something magically different about it and that legacy must continue. It is now playing in the Android business and if it comes in and become a me too brand with nothing to make it dramatically stand out  then itll be dead on arrival!

Nokia 7600 is a 3G handset that was aimed for the fashionable ones

Nailing the price war

Nokia has to be careful on price and cant just become a mid range champion as thatll kill the brand. It needs to play in all segments and take on Apple and Samsung in the high- end, and Xiaomi and One Plus in the middle. It needs to keep a premium attached and not play a low margin game. Nothing will dig the new Nokias grave deeper than playing a small profit game like Xiaomi and Le Eco do. And it needs a phone in every segment and price band within the first six months.

Tunnel vision and nothing else

The new Nokia needs extreme focus to get its phone business set and in full throttle before it starts getting adventurous. It doesnt need to dabble in tablets, TVs, notebooks, routers or IoT devices. Pure play mobile phones for the next few years and truly crack that market open. Anything less than singular tunnel vision will sound the death knell for it very quickly.

The Nokia 3660 has a Symbian OS

Set their house in order fast

The new Nokia will have to get all its decks in order very quickly. The Nokia brand always stood for trust. Think service centres that make people believe they will be taken care of, a warranty that beats the industry standards from the start, services like music and movies as soon as possible and some bundling deals with some service providers that have never been attempted before. That will get the Nokia fire ignited all over again.

The Nokia comeback is happening at a very interesting time for the mobile phone industry where business is starting to become completely commoditised, lacks innovation and every brand seems to be doing exactly the same things. If the new Nokia comes in with all guns blazing, it could truly start off a new order in a business that is starting to look old and haggard. Can the new Nokia become number one again? Maybe not. But it could regain a lot of its lost lustre if it plays its cards right.

Rajiv Makhni is managing editor, Technology, NDTV, and the anchor of Gadget Guru, Cell Guru and Newsnet 3

From HT Brunch, January 29, 2017

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How on earth would I know that a windmill is not just a windmill? Its my home, too, smiles the seven foot-something miller. He shows me the kitchen and the bunk beds. His living room is complete with lace-curtained windows, and theres an aircraft loo-sized toilet.

All under one coned roof

These Dutch windmills only draw water to keep the land dry. Over the years, motorised dykes and pumps have taken over their job, leaving these beauties as a symbol of the country that lies mostly below sea-level.

Im at Kinderdijk. This sweeping grassland with 19 mills (aged more than 200 years) oozes the rural charm of Netherlands. Sudden showers had forced me to stay put in this mill-house. Now the rains are over. I am thinking what my wife will do if I go out in this muddy pastoral land wearing new shoes. Try this, the miller opens his shoe rack and offers me 18th century Crocs  a pair of wooden clogs.

Kleywegs Stads Koffyhuis offers great food and nice views of the city. (Saubhadra Chatterji)

Food, glorious food

An hour later, the waterbus returns near a promenade that overlooks a series of strange buildings. We, in Rotterdam, call this place the Manhattan of Holland, a co-passenger quips.Manhattan? Forget an island full of high-rises, this place might not possess even 10 buildings soaring above 15 floors.

Whatever it is, the second largest city in Netherlands is a Disneyland of architecture. One building is tilted at the same angle as the Tower of Pisa (Its architect, obviously, is an Italian). The Central station resembles an arrow. A building looks like a sharpened pencil, and the row of cube houses makes me wonder how people can live there. Theyre like tossed dice. Inside, theyre funky with roofs almost falling on the head!

The Erasmus bridge and the Rotterdam skyline (Saubhadra Chatterji)

Then there is Markthal: An arch-shaped building full of residential flats with the citys best food market on the ground floor. Passing by Moroccan spices, risotto and lots of cheese, I stop for roasted pork belly. The Serb shopkeeper doesnt know any other language. I smile ear-to-ear, assuring the burly man behind the counter that language should never come in the way of good food. He prepares two lip-smacking dishes. I wash them down with a home-made digestif.

I am often accused of spending more time in food markets than at art galleries. After hopping three stalls, I am through with lunch. But I still go around, soaking in the smell and colours of this food culture (and the sprawling wine store in the basement). My wife drags me to the exit gate, Hurry up, we are getting late for the maritime museum.

The arrow shape of the Central station indicates the progress of Rotterdam (Saubhadra Chatterji)

Village? museum? whatever?

At the museum ticket counter, the Indonesian-origin woman suddenly becomes interested in India. I would love to go there, she declares in a flow of conversation. Towards the end, she says, Sorry, the museum is closed. Heartbroken, my wife comes out only to find that from the left pavement theres an excellent view of the old ships. For free.

If Rotterdam is a marvel of modern times, the open-air museums  and Netherlands has quite a few of them  are prizes from the past. The yellow and blue train stops at Enkhuizen. The picturesque small station looks as though its straight from a Yash Chopra movie set. On its left, hundreds of white boats and yachts float leisurely in a canal under the soft, winter sun.

The Markthal in Rotterdam has sumptuous food and awesome graffiti (Saubhadra Chatterji)

I ride a ferry for the open air museum of Zuiderzee, the showcase of 19th century traditional Dutch life. It was a fishing village before a part of the sea was blocked to reclaim land. People still masquerade as villagers. They repair torn sails, stitch fishing nets or simply slice logs as a feast for tourists eyes.

Its better to share one dish between two people (Saubhadra Chatterji)

After strolling almost every lane and saying goedemorgen to all villagers, I reach a narrow canal. Theres a fisherman with an old black box and heaps of sawdust, selling smoked fish. Herring or salmon? he asks. I betray the local pro-Herring sentiments and opt for salmon. Five minutes later, he opens his box and, from a haze of smoke, brings out what is probably the best smoked salmon of my life. And its just three euros.

At BE41 BnB in Maastricht, my host kept the Dutch version of Malgudi Days in my room (Saubhadra Chatterji)

Going Dutch

Netherlands, smaller than Haryana, has a superb train service. I am in the silent zone of a double decker train from Rotterdam as it whizzes past pretty villages. After 20 minutes, I step out at a small station.Leaving behind barricades, trucks and the cement piles of a construction site, I take a left turn and enter a different world altogether. The small town of Delft is a picture postcard. Its a prettier version of Amsterdam. No wonder that Dutch royalty is buried here.

The market square of the charming Delft (Saubhadra Chatterji)

Its a Monday morning. The historic main square has only a few visitors. Nearby, there are canals, rows of quaint houses and leafy neighbourhoods, creating a surreal urban space. I cross a few flower-decked bridges to find Kleywegs Stads Koffyhuis. An old barge is the outdoor extension of the cafe. Inside, lots of trophies are displayed on the top of the main counter. This cafe has been a champion in food competitions around Netherlands.Its not just a breakfast for me. Its a part of being in this life, slowly but happily, almost like those boats in the mossy canals.

From the glitzy Rotterdam to peaceful Delft, from the old villages to the timeless windmills, two things are common. First, the way these gritty people have built their country. As they say here, God created the earth but the Dutch created Holland.And secondly, wherever I see a cheese shop, I invariably enter to ask: Whats the age of your oldest one?

Follow @SaubhadraC on Twitter

From HT Brunch, January 29,2017

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Does Donald Trump present an opportunity or a challenge for India? That depends on how seriously you take what hes said. Until he acts weve nothing else to go by.

First, the impact of his broad handling of international relations. Trump has spoken warmly of President Putin, talked of lifting sanctions and wants engagement with Moscow. His secretary of state is a close friend of the Russian President. In contrast, Trump has threatened a tougher line against China. The one-China policy is open for reconsideration and the country could be penalised for currency manipulation.

Friendly relations between the United States and Russia suit India because we can then pursue closer relations with both without contradiction. Also, a US-Russia detente would diminish Russias dependence on Beijing. And any policy that confronts Chinas expansion cant disadvantage India.

More important is Trumps direct impact. During the campaign he famously said I am a big fan of Hindu. I am a big fan of India. Did he mean it or was it just campaign rhetoric?

Read: The ripple effect of a Trump presidency in US felt in Bhubaneswar

In terms of Indo-Pakistan relations, Nawaz Sharif claims Trumps expressed a willingness to sort out Indo-Pak differences. Vice President Mike Pence is also reported to have concurred in an NBC interview. However, most people think thats unlikely.

During the campaign Trump called Pakistan the most dangerous country in the world today and said the only country that can check Pakistan is India. Though he hasnt repeated this after the election his key appointments think similarly. At his confirmation, Defence Secretary Gen. Mattis spoke of Pakistans need to expel or neutralise externally-focused militant groups that operate within its border. The National Security Advisor, Gen. Flynn, in his book, the Field of Fight, writes: Countries like Pakistan need to be told we will not tolerate terrorist training camps and safe havens  they are going to have to choose and if they continue to help the jihadis we are going to treat them harshly. That suggests a tougher stand which can only be good news for India.

On other issues, like membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group or a permanent seat on the Security Council, we dont have clarity. Its unlikely Trump will reverse Obamas commitments but he may not accord them the same priority.

Read: Trump tells Modi India a true friend and partner, invites PM to US

Now to the economic impact. The key concern is what happens to H1B visas. Both the US president and his attorney general talk of reducing H1B visas. This would be bad news for Indias information technology industry, 60% of whose $108 billion exports go to the US. Companies like Infosys, Wipro and TCS could suffer.

However, that could also impact the American enterprises which rely on them. As the latters costs rise theyll be passed on to their American customers. The question is could this make Trump change his position? No one really knows.

Finally, what about Trumps attitude to American companies that establish factories abroad? Ford has three in India and intends to export most of its cars. Now, undoubtedly, exports to the US will be affected but will that make such companies rethink their India strategy? I guess that depends on how badly theyre affected.

If all this suggests we have more questions than answers thats undeniable. But a Trump-like change creates worrying doubts alongside great expectations and you have to keep your fingers crossed till you discover what will actually happen.

The views expressed are personal.

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By tradition, the Indian tribal has never received justice, wrote Amrita Rangaswamy in the 1970s, adding, But in Srikakulam denial of justice has been made a canon of official policy.

Rangawamys remarks are quoted in Nandini Sundars superb new book The Burning Forest, which  among many other things  show that the denial of justice to adivasis has taken place in many places apart from Srikakulam, and in many decades after the 1970s as well. Adivasis remain the section of Indian society most discriminated against; they have gained least, and lost most, from seven decades of political democracy and economic development in India.

Read | Bastars tribal reporter-couple: Editors pride, colleagues envy, cops bane

Sundars book focuses on Bastar, the former princely state that is now part of Chhattisgarh. This is a most beautiful part of the country that is now the epicentre of a most brutal civil war. Bastar has been subject to what one might call a triple resource curse. First, its rich forests were subject to large-scale logging. Second, its fast-flowing rivers were eyed by dam-builders. Third, its extensive deposits of mineral ore were coveted by the urban-industrial sector not just in India, but in Japan and China too. Commercial forestry, hydel-projects, and unregulated mining have all enriched outsiders while bringing environmental degradation and social devastation to the adivasis of Bastar.

In the 1980s, Maoists from neighbouring Andhra Pradesh entered Bastar. When they first came, the Maoists appeared to the villagers as Robin Hoods, fighting on their behalf for better wages, for fairer terms for forest produce, and the like. As they dug deeper roots they changed their tactics, seeking now to use Bastar as a base to launch an armed struggle to capture State power. In desperation, the Chhattisgarh government promoted a vigilante army named Salwa Judum, which escalated the violence even further. Meanwhile, tens of thousands of police and paramilitary descended on the area.

Read | Jharkhand to get Indias second tribal university

The battle between the State and Maoists, writes Sundar, has raged across roads, trees, schools, transformers and hand-pumps, fought each bitter inch of the way. Among the saddest signs of this ongoing war are the abandoned schools, their ceilings half fallen, creepers growing out of the sides of blasted walls.

The Burning Forest aims to explore what it means to be an adivasi citizen of India caught in armed conflict. It documents the crimes of every side in this war; the villages burnt and looted by the Judum; the murders and rapes committed by them too. And it investigates the many instances of Maoist violence; their killings of policemen, politicians, and Judum leaders; their murders of village headmen and of alleged informers too.

Read | Chhattisgarh CM assures activist Bela Bhatia of security and accommodation

Sundar also documents the refugee crisis caused by this war. She interviews villagers in camps in Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh, who almost uniformly desire to return to their abandoned villages, to rebuild their homes and their lives.

The crisis in Bastar was deepened by a curious, and perhaps unique, example of a Congress-BJP alliance, an alliance constructed for altogether destructive ends. The BJP and Congress leaders within Chhattisgarh collaborated in creating and patronising the Salwa Judum. Meanwhile, in Delhi, central governments led both by the Congress and BJP variously endorsed, whitewashed, suppressed and denied the colossal violations of the Constitution in Bastar.

Other metropolitan writers have visited Bastar as guests of the Maoists. The Maoists did not invite Sundar on a guided tour, apparently worried that she would ask them tough questions. That she certainly would have. The Burning Forest is the work not of a starry-eyed tourist, but of a scholar who has worked in the region for 25 years. Individuals, communities, plants, homes, settlements, the rhythms of the local agrarian and forest economies  all these (and more) are described with sensitivity and understanding.

Read | Rough deal: Pannas biggest diamond auction means nothing for its miners

As a result of the civil war, the integrity and solidarity of adivasi life have been totally destroyed. The small joys of the people of Bastar  feasts, festivals, cockfights, hunts  have been replaced by an atmosphere of fear, intimidation, suspicion, and paranoia. Clan has been set against clan, village against village, sometimes brother against brother. In such a conflict, writes Sundar, the worst part is that one never knows who is who, and if you talk too loudly, the wrong people might hear.

A few days ago the country celebrated Republic Day. Every thinking Indian, every citizen who is concerned about the present and future of the Republic, should read The Burning Forest. It is an impeccably researched and finely written work of scholarship, redolent with insight, and displaying enormous courage as well. Sundars book shines a sharp spotlight on our Republics failures, demonstrating how, despite professedly functioning institutions of democracy such as Parliament, the press, and the judiciary, even the most basic of checks within the state fail in the face of corporate and political greed and official indifference.

Ramachandra Guhas books include Gandhi Before India. The views expressed are personal.

Twitter: @Ram_Guha

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan hosted British Prime Minister Theresa May in Ankara on Jan. 28 in the latters first visit to Turkey after she took office and the two leaders discussed a variety of issues extending from trade relations to advanced joint operations against terror in Syria, Hurriyet reported.

After their meeting at the presidential compound, the two leaders gave a press meeting. Erdogan touched upon the two countrys trade relations and said they aim to boost the trade volume between Turkey and United Kingdom, increasing it from 15 billion dollars to 20 billion dollars.

Erdogan also said he discussed about the Cyprus issue, Syria and Iraq and the Astana process with May.

Syria and Iraq has a great importance for Turkish and British relations. We want to have a much different concept in the upcoming period for the cooperation between Turkey and the coalition powers. We have discussed these issues, said Erdogan.

May has also praised Turkey for its pro-democracy stance in the July 15 coup attempt and added that carrying our relationship to a further level is for the benefit of both countries.

After her meeting with Erdgan, May met with Trkish Prime Minister Binali Yldrm in Chankaya Mansion.
Uttarakhand Congress party is in fix over how to proceed with its assurance to support independent PDF candidate from Dhanolti assembly constituency Pritam Singh Panwar as its official nominee Manmohan Singh Mall denied on Saturday to withdraw his nomination. AICC leadership issued letter in support of Panwar on Friday.

Congress partys fire fighting plan doesnt seem to yield goods as Mall refused to withdraw alleging that he has been cheated by the partys state leadership. Mall charged that there is conspiracy against him but he will not withdraw from contest. He said that symbol was allotted to him on January 24 but party did not ask him not to file nomination for four days. He alleged now leadership wants him to withdraw under pressure from PDF MLA Pritam Singh Panwar who is contesting as independent from Dhanolti.

I will not withdraw from the Contest now as ticket was allotted by the AICC leadership. Party never communicated me about its decision to support Panwar. My elections preparations are complete. Its cheating against me under pressure from Panwar. If they sincerely want to support PDF candidate in sync with partys assurance given to them then same standard must be applied for Tehris independent candidate Dhane. Why party has fielded candidate against Dhane. If they withdraw from Tehri I will take my candidature back said Mall speaking to Hindustan times.

However Congress leadership is hopeful that their nominee will withdraw before deadline of election commission is over on January 30. Its indeed mistake on our part. Decision would have been taken in time but now that AICC leadership has issued a letter in favour of PDF candidate party is bound to support him said PCC president Kishore adding that Manmohan Singh Malls anger is genuine and obvious but he will compensated duly.
A traditional battleground for Congress and BJP, Ramnagar assembly constituency had first gained prominence soon after the first state polls were held in 2002. The Congress candidate who had won the seat vacated it soon after to pave way for then chief minister Narayan Dutt Tiwaris entry into the state assembly. Tiwari won the bypolls with a formidable margin of more than 23,000 votes and went on the rule the state for full term of five years --- the only CM to have done so in Uttarakhand.

Prior to that Congresss Yogamber Singh had won the seat in the 2002 polls defeating BJPs Diwan Singh Bisht by nearly 5,000 votes. The seat had recorded 59 per cent polling. Yogambar vacated the seat for Tiwari in June. To take on Tiwari, BJP nominated Ram Singh Bisht who suffered a major drubbing.

In the next state polls in 2007, BJP reposed faith in Diwan Singh Bisht, while Congress gave the ticket to Yogamber Singh. Diwan Singh romped home with a margin of more than 10,000 votes. The seat had witnessed 65.4 per cent polling.

Congress again won from Ramnagar in 2012 when former tourism minister Amrita Rawat defeated Diwan Singh by more than 3,000 votes. Rawat later joined BJP.

The seat with a sizeable presence of minority voters has also seen BSP making its presence felt in the elections held in Ramnagar securing 18-20 per cent of the votes.

For the fresh political battle on February 15, Congress has fielded Ranjeet Rawat, a close aide of chief minister Harish Rawat while BJP has once again nominated veteran leader and local heavy weight Diwan Singh Bisht. Ranjeet was twice elected to the assembly from Salt constituency in Almora before losing to BJP candidate in 2012. Party sources said he shifted to Ramnagar as it is considered a safe seat owing to the presence of a sizeable Muslim population that makes up for around 20 per cent of the voters here. Harish Rawat government has done a lot for development of Ramnagar despite want of funds. As an important corridor for Kumaon Hills, Ramnagar and its areas adjoining Corbett Tiger Reserve will be given mega facelift as tourism destination if Congress returns to power, said Ranjeet Rawat.

He, however, has an uphill task ahead as apart from the anti-incumbency wave against the state government, he is facing rebellion from youth Congress leader Sanjay Negi who has filed his nomination as an independent candidate.

The BJP, meanwhile, is banking on the support of its former MLA Amrita Rawat who recently addressed a gathering of Muslim voters. BJP is hopeful of endearing itself to the Muslim voters.
Q: Several disgruntled members along with their supporters have left the party after being denied ticket in favour of Congress turncoats. Hundreds of cadres quitting the party would cost it heavily in the assembly polls.

A: It is a fact that cadres are not raised in a day. It takes years to prepare them. However, it is also a fact that whenever a worker leaves our party, he leaves alone and our cadres do not leave the party. Ours is a democratic party. So, we cannot close our doors on those who want to join us. Such a process also helps strengthen the party.

Q: But your party is facing rebellion after it obliged most Congress turncoats with tickets. The Congress also accuses the BJP of causing split in the ruling party. In fact, people are also unhappy with your party.

A: There is no rebellion in our party. It is the Congress that is facing rebellion. So, (Congress) leaders should do some soul searching. They should think over as to why so many of legislators quit that party. Similarly, the cabinet colleagues of the chief minister (Harish Rawat) left him. Those who served that party (Congress) for 40-45 years left it to join us. It is for them (Congress) seek answers to all such questions.

Q: The BJP often accuses the Congress of pursing dynastic politics. Hasnt your party done the same thing by giving tickets to some of the Congress turncoats and their kin?

A: That party (Congress) is run by a family. Nobody other than a member of that family can become the president of that party. The members of that family have been leading the Congress for three generations. Such a party has no right to (accuse us of) pursuing dynastic politics. As far as the BJP is concerned, all the tickets were given purely on the basis of work not on the considerations like nepotism or dynasty.

Q: People in the state are unhappy owing to the massive cash crunch caused by Prime Minister Narendra Modis move to recall high value currency notes. There are reports that the BJP might not project him (Modi) as its face for the assembly election

A : People did face hardships owing to demonetisation yet they stood by the PM. In fact, it was the most courageous decision taken since Independence. Its (positive) results will soon start showing. The decision to demonetise the high value currency notes was not taken for (the benefit of) one class but for the benefit of the entire country. The move got full support of the people. In fact, our party (BJP) won all the elections held in the state post demonetisation.

Q: Will the Prime Minister be your partys face for the assembly elections?

A: Modiji is internationally recognised face of development. We have a number of capable leaders who can lead the state. There is no infighting in our party

Q: What will be your partys poll-plank in the assembly election?

A: People are unhappy with this (Congress) government because the chief minister couldnt fulfill a number of schemes and projects he announced for the state. Development of Uttarakhand would be our main poll plank.

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Former Uttarakhand chief minister Vijay Bahuguna Saturday said if the BJP wins the polls and forms the government, it would order a probe into the corruption involving sitting chief minister Harish Rawat.

We will certainly order a probe into the allegations of corruption involving him (chief minister Rawat), once our party comes to power, Bahuguna told a press conference.

Bahuguna, who along with nine Congress MLAs had joined the saffron party last year, was replying to queries pertaining to Rawats allegations of corruption against him.

He (Rawat) has been the chief minister for the past three years. Why didnt he order a probe against me if he had proof of corruption against me, Bahuguna said.

He also lambasted his successor for announcing a series of development projects and schemes for the state. The way he (Rawat) made these announcements without budgetary support, they will end up becoming a noose around his neck, the BJP leader said adding that the CM was scared of losing in the assembly election.

That he is unsure of his victory is evident from the fact that he is contesting election from two assembly seats instead of one, Bahuguna said, referring to Kichha and Haridwar (Rural). He also rubbished Rawats charge that the BJP tried to topple his government by imposing the Presidents rule last year. In India, the Presidents rule has been imposed 112 times. Out of that it (Presidents rule) was imposed 100 times when that party (Congress) was in power, Bahuguna said.

He also sought to downplay the Elections Commissions ban on publicising the sting CD purportedly showing Rawat buying over former Congress legislators to save his government last year.

We respect the ECs decision. As it is, the sting CD has got so much publicity that everybody knows about the charges of corruption against the CM, Bahuguna said, adding, He (Rawat) has accepted contents of the sting video as he has not issued any denial against them.

Earlier this month, Bahuguna had slapped a legal notice on Rawat and his media advisor Surendra Kumar demanding an unconditional public apology from them for accusing him and his family of promoting the interests of a foreign company. The legal notice had come after Kumar demanded an investigation into the dramatic rise of a London- based companys turnover from 50,000 pounds in 2011 to 250 million pounds by April 2013 when Bahuguna was the CM of Uttarakhand.

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A day after its members allegedly assaulted film director Sanjay Leela Bhansali and vandalised the sets of his film Padmavati at Jaigarh Fort here, the Karni Sena Saturday reiterated its stand to oppose any distortion of historical facts. It also launched an attack on the Bollywood personalities who condemned the vandalism and dared them to visit Jaipur.

Lokendra Singh Kalvi, the founder patron of the outfit claimed that they had informed the film maker five-six months ago in Mumbai that distortion of historic facts wont be tolerated.

We wont tolerate the distortion of history. We wont forget our history and neither will we let anyone forget. Mumbai me baithe log do cheez samajhate hain, chandi ya jute. (The jokers in Mumbai understand only two things, the language of silver or shoes), said Kalvi.

Founder of Karni Sena Lokendra Singh Kalvi interacts with media on Saturday. (Prabhakar Sharma/HT Photo)

The Karni Sena has objections to dream sequence in the film where, they alleged that fimmakers are pictutrising an intimate scene between Alauddin Khiji, played by Ranveer Singh, and Rani Padmavati, being played by Deepika Padukone.

Is this the way to pay tribute to a woman who is a legend in the Rajput history? We wont let this film see the light of the day if intimate scenes between Khilji and Padmini are depicted, he added.

Kalvi claimed that they told Bhansali to not go with the dream sequence for which the fimmaker sought a time for two days. Seeking a two-day time shows that there is something about the dream sequence in the film, he pointed out.

Mahipal Singh, the state president of the Karni Sena, said that they were trying to protect the history and violence erupted only after the security guards of the film crew fired in the air.

Rajputs are not afraid of guns or fire. It is about time that we look at this issue from the perspective of Hindutva. Several outfits such as Shiv Sena and Brahman Mahasabha have already pledged their support to us. There is no way that we are going let the film release if history is distorted, Makrana said.

Asked about director Anurag Kashyaps tweet that he felt ashamed to be a Rajput because of the Karni Sena, Kalvi said, Who is Anurag Kashyap? I dont know him.

Makrana also targeted actor Hrithik Roshan for tweeting that he was enraged because of the ruckus created by the Karni Sena. Hrithik Roshan has said that he is enraged. I dare him to come to Jaipur. Hum uske gusse ko thanda kar denge (we will cool his anger), said Makrana.

State Congress vice-president and MLA Vishvendra Singh too accused Bhansali of distorting history. Speaking to media persons in Bharatpur, Singh, who is also a member of the Bharatpur royal family, said that the filmmaker was trying to distort history for getting publicity.

Another state Congress leader Pratap Singh said, Padmavati was not a lover of anyone. Bhansali cannot hurt the sentiments of the people by portraying the sacrifice of Padmavati in a wrong way.

Meanwhile, Rajasthan home minister Gulab Singh Kataria said that flouting law to express anger was not called for, adding that a probe would be initiated in the matter.

In such case, anger is instinctive but it shouldnt be done outside the purview of law. One cannot express anger by breaking the law. They could have filed a police complaint instead of taking law in their hands, Kataria told ANI.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Amid heavy deployment of police in Delhi for Republic Day and Sundays Beating Retreat ceremony and Martyrs Day at Rajghat on Monday, snatchers are having a free run in central Delhis Daryaganj, raising questions on the preparedness of Delhi police.

In the first incident, a Romanian tourist became a victim of street crime in Delhi when his mobile phone was snatched by three men on a two-wheeler on Friday afternoon.

Read: Old, corroded mortar shell found in south Delhis Vasant Kunj creates panic

The complainant, Liviu Emaneul Badilita, was travelling in an auto rickshaw when the crime took place at around 4.35 pm outside Ghata Masjid near Rajghat, under the jurisdiction of Daryaganj police station.

In his complaint, Badilita told the police that he was staying at a hotel in central Delhis Paharganj. On Friday, he went to visit Akshardham Complex in east Delhi. At around 4 pm, he boarded an auto rickshaw to reach Red Fort for sight-seeing.

Read: Delhi Chak De girls chase down snatchers, beat them blue as traffic cops watch

As my vehicle crossed Rajghat and reached Zeenat-ul Masjid, also famous as Ghata masjid, three men on a two-wheeler snatched my LG Google Nexus 5X and fled towards Shantivan side. I could not see their faces or remember the registration number of their two-wheeler, Badilita said in his complaint.

Incidentally, while the Daryaganj police personnel were registering the FIR and completing legal formalities in the crime against the Romanian tourist, a resident of east Delhis Gandhi Nagar too reported that his mobile phone was snatched around the same spot.

In the second incident, Sachin Pandey, who works as an accountant in Daryaganj, was returning home after work on his motorcycle at around 7 pm, when his mobile phone started ringing. Pandey stopped near the Shantivan bus stop to receive the call. Soon after he answered the phone, three bike-borne men arrived and snatched his Samsung J-7 phone and fled.

Read: Delhi: Impostors held for cheating, extorting money from VIPs, lawmakers

The police suspect that the same set of snatchers had struck again in less than three hours.

Assistant sub-inspector Sohanvir Singh was appointed the investigating officer in both the cases.

Our teams are working on leads and the snatchers will soon be nabbed. We are taking precautionary steps to curb such crimes in future, said Mandeep Singh Randhawa, deputy commissioner of police (central).

Read: Romancing at Talkatora: Delhis Chashme Baddoor garden will be lovable again
Police on Saturday arrested five people from southwest Delhi and busted a gang of carjackers associated with notorious car thief Manoj Bakkarwala, who is behind bars.

According to the police, the kingpin of the gang, Ratan Chopra alias Masood, was among those who were arrested on Saturday. Four stolen SUVs and cars, one pistol and two cartridges were recovered from the possession of the five accused, who had more than two dozen cases of carjacking and vehicle thefts registered against them.

Among the five arrested on Saturday was a model-turned-gym instructor from Agra in Uttar Pradesh, identified as Sharvesh Kumar Sharma. Police said Sharma won the title of Mr Agra twice and had also done modelling for some famous brands.

Read: Amid Republic Day security, snatchers have a free run in Delhis Daryaganj, rob Romanian

Sharma wanted to become Mr India some day and for that he needed money. He, therefore, allegedly joined Masoods gang to make quick money through easy means. Sharma initially came in contact with Masood as a customer and wanted to buy a Hyundai i20 car that was available with Masood. Masood promised to gift him the car and asked him to join him, said a senior police officer. The other arrested persons were identified as Ajay Verma, Anshu Singh and Ankush.

Surender Kumar, deputy commissioner of police (southwest), said that the arrests came following investigations conducted by the districts anti auto theft squad led by ACP Rajinder Singh and inspector Raj Kumar.

On January 22, the team received information that the gang members would come to Dwarkas Sector 28 area to steal a car. A trap was laid accordingly and Masood was nabbed along with Ajay and Anshu after they arrived in a stolen car. Their interrogation led to the arrest of the other three and recovery of three more stolen vehicles, including a Fortuner SUV, the DCP said.

Read: Old, corroded mortar shell found in south Delhis Vasant Kunj creates panic

During interrogation, Masood said that he was a school dropout after which he came in touch with petty criminals and began committing small crimes. He later came in contact with Manoj Bakkarwala and started committing carjackings, robberies and vehicle thefts with him.

After Bakkarwalas arrest, Masood formed his own gang and continued his criminal activities. He was previously involved in 20 cases, added Kumar.
With laser fencing along its periphery walls, prisoner tracking system and use of advanced cameras, the new Mandoli Jail employs advanced technology to ensure security inside the prison complex.

The jail, mandated to accommodate 3,776 prisoners, turned functional last October with the relocation of 50 inmates from the overcrowded Tihar Jail. So far, about 1,500 prisoners have already been moved to the new prison complex located in East Delhis Mandoli.

But several problems faced by the Tihar Jail threaten the Mandoli Jail. The common among them are incidents of inmates kin flinging banned items like SIM cards, blades and tobacco products across the high walls.

Read: Six years after deadline, Delhi to get a new jail in Mandoli

To deal with this problem at Tihar, the jail authorities have in the past came up with solutions such as putting up nets around boundary walls and police patrolling outside the premises.

But with these plans either not taking off or being ineffective, Sudhir Yadav, DG (Delhi Prisons), has planned laser fencing security system here. If proved effective, the system will be installed even at Tihar Jail, said the DG.

Laser fencing will ensure that any foreign object passing through the fence will sound an alarm and capture the pictures of the object. It will also rule out any chance of an inmate escaping by scaling the boundary walls, Yadav told HT.

Talks are on with Invader Technologies Pvt Ltd, a Gurgaon-based company, to arrange for the fencing. We are looking at a 20-foot high laser fence above the periphery walls, the total length of which should be around 1.5-2 km, said Amit Kumar Mishra, company director.

Laser fencing will ensure that any foreign object passing through the fence will sound an alarm and capture the pictures of the object

While this will take care of foreign objects from entering jail premises, the administration is also planning a prisoner tracking system that will keep a track of the movement of all inmates. Electronic bracelets worn by inmates will help jail authorities fix boundaries for prisoners and check their movement.

These bracelets will first be tried on a small group of inmates at a soon-to-be-functional high security prison in Mandoli Jail before being used on all inmates, said Yadav who took over as the DG in May last year.

It should hopefully reduce clashes among prisoners as inmates will be forced to keep within certain areas designated for them or have an alarm buzzing off if they cross it, said Shailendra Parihar, who has been made the DIG in charge of the Mandoli Jail.

Read: Romancing at Talkatora: Delhis Chashme Baddoor garden will be lovable again

Other security features being brought in at the jail include a facial recognition system and automatic number plate recognition cameras which will keep a track of every person and vehicle entering or leaving the jail premises.

We are also reviewing a proposal to install special cameras that will help us track activities in the entire prison campus on a single screen and depending on which area we want to monitor. Those cameras are capable of detecting activities even in pitch darkness, said Yadav.

Read: Delhi baby beaters: Why mothers are turning angry, violent
Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Friday wrote a letter to Nripendra Mishra, principal secretary to the Prime Minister, seeking details on the social media campaigns launched by the Centre to promote its flagship schemes.

The letter comes over a week after the CBI initiated a probe against Sisodia over alleged irregularities in the Talk To AK campaign, the maiden interactive session of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal with the public, using social media.

The talk in which Sisodia too was present was held on July 17, 2016.

Making a counter attack, the Deputy CM in his letter questioned social media campaigns for Make in India, Digital India and Start-Up India initiatives.

Further, Sisodia asked if any bidding was conducted for giving advertising in Google, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and other platforms for its flagship campaigns.

Read: Old, corroded mortar shell found in south Delhis Vasant Kunj creates panic

For advertising in such platforms, payments are done through credit limits or credit cards. Credit card of which department, government agency or private agency was used for ads on social media for the mentioned projects? he asked. Another question was if the ads on these platforms were also sent out for users in Pakistan.

In the Talk to AK programme, Kejriwal had covered a wide array of issues linked to the strained relations between the Centre and the Delhi government - including the possibility of disqualification of 21 parliamentary secretaries, jurisdiction over the Delhi Police and the arrest of his principal secretary Rajendra Kumar by the CBI.

Launched more than a year after Prime Minister Narendra Modis monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, Kejriwals interaction was live streamed on the website www.talktoak.com. The programme had generated huge interest, AAP leaders had said.

Read: Amid Republic Day security, snatchers have a free run in Delhis Daryaganj, rob Romanian
The crime branch of Delhi Police was accused of allegedly raiding missing JNU student Najeeb Ahmeds maternal uncles house in Uttar Pradesh and harassing them by Najeeb s family and the varsitys students.

Police officers strongly denied the allegations.

Najeebs family and JNU students alleged that police on Saturday searched the house of the missing students maternal uncle at 4am on Saturday.

Read more| Najeeb disappearance: 100 days on, police clueless, quiz friend

On January 28, around 4am, four jeeps of Delhi Police, accompanied by local police from Badaun in Uttar Pradesh, reached the house of Ashraf Qadri, Najeebs maternal uncle. Around 50 police personnel later forcefully barged into the house, they have alleged.

JNU students claimed that on entering the house, police clicked photographs and shot videos.

They searched every nook and cranny of the house to find Najeeb, and asked the family members to produce Najeeb if they had hidden him somewhere. They even harassed his granfather, who is 90, said a family member.

Read more| Delhi Police grills man who made ransom call to JNU student Najeeb Ahmeds family

However, Delhi Police strongly denied the reports of high-handedness.

Search operations are continuing in all possible places, including that of friends and relatives, and notices are being issued in suitable cases. Today (Saturday) morning, our team with local police made a proper search. A DCP led the team, said Ravindra Yadav, joint commissioner of police (crime).

Read more| Delhi Police now offer Rs 10 lakh for info on missing JNU student Najeeb Ahmed

Videography was done of the proceedings which will make it clear that the allegations are baseless, he added.

Najeebs email was accessed by someone as per our technical analysis. So, we swiftly reacted and reached Badaun to nab the person. It turned out to be his maternal uncle Ashraf Qadri, he added.

Read more| Missing JNU student to ghostbusters death: 5 crimes that foxed Delhi in 2016
UK Prime Minister agreed with Turkish Prime Minister on closer cooperation in fighting terrorism, Anadolu agency reported.

Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said Saturday that he agreed with UK Prime Minister Theresa May on closer cooperation in fighting terrorism.

"We have agreed on closer cooperation in terms of fight against terrorism. Among the topics that we have discussed, was the coup attempt [in Turkey] on July 15. We informed May that the terrorist organization [headed by cleric Fethullah Gulen] is operating in the United Kingdom as well as across the world. We asked the United Kingdom to take all necessary measures concerning this issue," Yildirim said at the press conference.

Yildirim added that an agreement between Turkey and the United Kingdom on joint construction of fighter jets was signed and that the security services of both countries will work on increasing security measures at the airports.
Former Miss Universe and actress Lara Dutta Bhupathi has come out in support of Roshmitha Harimurthy, who will be representing India at the upcoming 65th edition of Miss Universe pageant to be held in Manila.

With my Uno baby! #missuniverse A photo posted by Roshmitha Harimurthy (@roshmitaa) on Jan 27, 2017 at 7:40pm PST

Lara, who was crowned as Miss Universe in 2000, says she believes in Harimurthy and urged her fans and followers to vote for her.

At the 'Speak for India debate' Maharashtra edition. Outfit by @officialswapnilshinde  Styled by @surabhi_stylefiles  Jewellery by @aquamarine_jewellery A photo posted by Roshmitha Harimurthy (@roshmitaa) on Oct 27, 2016 at 7:26am PDT

This is a girl I believe in, now its time for you to make her win. Tweet Miss Universe India to vote! India, its time to stand united and vote, Lara posted on Twitter.

This is a girl I believe in, now it's time 4 u to make her win.Tweet #MissUniverse #India to vote! India, it's time to stand united and vote pic.twitter.com/0sRFWo0E6z  Lara Dutta Bhupathi (@LaraDutta) January 27, 2017

More than 86 women from all over the world gathered in Manila on Thursday to compete in the Miss Universe beauty contest that will culminate in a coronation in the Philippines capital on Monday.

The journey of Miss Universe India 2016 begins. Thank you all for the love and support, never stop!  #yamahafascinomissdiva2016 A photo posted by Roshmitha Harimurthy (@roshmitaa) on Sep 11, 2016 at 7:51am PDT

The preliminary competition that started on Thursday will whittle down the crowded field to the top 12 candidates for the pageant night, the Miss Universe website said.

On our way to meet the President of Philippines! #missuniverse A photo posted by Roshmitha Harimurthy (@roshmitaa) on Jan 22, 2017 at 7:35pm PST

Former Miss Universe and Bollywood actress Sushmita Sen will be on the judges panel for the upcoming pageant, which will take place at the Mall of Asia Arena, Pasay in the Philippines capital.

Touchdown BANGALORE!!  #homecoming @RozinaVishram outfit - Roshmita Styled by Rochelle & Anishaa  A photo posted by Roshmitha Harimurthy (@roshmitaa) on Sep 19, 2016 at 10:57am PDT

Over half a million people are expected to tune in to watch the coronation night next week, organizers said.
Barring Gurgaon and Mewat, the Jat community will launch a statewide agitation from Sunday to press for reservations in state and Central government jobs, and six other related demands related to last years agitation. The community will also demand action against BJP parliamentarian Rajkumar Saini for making inflammatory statements against the community in the last two years.

Akhil Bhartiya Jat Arakshan Sangarsh Samiti which is spearheading the agitation asserted that the community members will go on indefinite strikes in their respective districts in support of their seven demands but will remain peaceful.

Gurgaon, however, will witness only a day long peaceful demonstration at Lt Atul Kataria Chowk on Sunday from 10 am and a memorandum will be submitted to Gurgaon deputy commissioner Hardip Singh and commissioner of police Sandeep Khirwar.

Residents can be relieved as the samiti said Gurgaon, Faridabad and Panchkula will only witness symbolic protest because of their urban character. There are chances that protests get out of hand in urban settings as there is a large floating population and as such, the focus will be on peaceful protests across rural Haryana, Yashpal Malik, president of the samiti, said, while addressing the media in Gurgaon on Saturday.

Mewat has been kept out of the agitation because of the limited population of the community in the region, the leader said.

The samiti said peaceful but indefinite protests and dharnas will commence on Sunday and continue till the demands are met. We want the government to deliver on the promise of reservations in Cental government and state jobs, release of youth arrested during last years agitation and withdrawal of cases registered against the youth, Malik said.

In February last year, the Jat agitation had turned violent leading to at least 30 deaths, and loss of public and private property worth hundreds of crores. Rohtak and adjoining districts had witnessed the maximum amount of violence and the government was forced to call in the Army to normalise the situation.

On Saturday, the Jat leaders also accused the Haryana government of misleading the public and claimed that it had the support of 98 khaps (clans). They also said the Prakash Singh report on Jat agitation should be scrutinised and those officials who failed to maintain and law and order and instigated violence should be penalised. BJP MP Rajkumar Saini has been making inflammatory statements against the Jat community and action must be taken against him, Malik said

The Samiti is also demanding that martyrs of last years agitation be given jobs and those injured be given compensation and jobs.

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A joint public memorial will be held for actress Carrie Fisher and her mother Debbie Reynolds on March 25. A private funeral for Reynolds was held on January 6.

The service will take place at the Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills, reported Variety.

The announcement was made by Todd Fisher, Carries brother and Debbies son, on his website.

We will be celebrating their lives with friends, family members, and the people who loved them, you. The service will begin at 1:00 PM and immediately afterwards, those who want to walk to their final resting place are welcome to do so, Todd wrote.

In this 2011 file photo, Carrie Fisher kisses her mother, Debbie Reynolds, as they arrive at the Primetime Creative Arts Emmy Awards in Los Angeles. (AP)

The statement was made exactly a month after Fisher died after suffering a heart attack at age 60 on December 27 last year.

Her mother, Reynolds had passed the very next day of Carries death.
Five soldiers who went missing after a pathway cleared in the snow caved in in Kashmirs Kupwara district on Saturday have been rescued, officials said, as the Valley reeled under unprecedented snowfall over the last few days.

An army spokesperson said the soldiers who were on patrol near a camp in Machhal sector when they were buried under several feet of snow are being are undergoing treatment. Snow tracks are pathways carved out through snow to facilitate movement of men and vehicles.

J&K: 5 army personnel hit by avalanche that struck Army post in Kupwara district; rescue operations by Army underway.  ANI (@ANI_news) January 28, 2017

The fresh incident came two days after two avalanches killed 14 soldiers in the Gurez sector near the de-facto border between Indian and Pakistani.

Separate avalanches buried a military post and swept away a patrol on Wednesday night in Gurez, burying a total of 21 Indian soldiers. Seven soldiers were rescued.

Earlier, an army major was also killed in an avalanche in Ganderbal district.

Several civilians have also been killed in the recent incidents.

Kashmir has been witnessing one of the most severe winters in recent decades, with heavy snow across the territory and temperatures dropping to minus seven degrees Celsius.

Authorities have issued avalanche warnings, advising residents in mountainous areas not to venture out.

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Three aides of the Meghalaya Raj Bhavan were sacked a day after governor V Shanmugathan resigned amid a raging sleaze scandal, an official said on Saturday.

The three officials -- public relation officers Chinmoyee Deka and Emdorini Thangkhiew, and private secretary Saurav Pandey  were appointed during the former governors tenure.

They were appointed on contractual basis and their jobs were co-terminus with the governors tenure. After his resignation, they were asked to quit, said HM Sangpliang, the secretary to the governor.

The 67-year-old former Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) pracharak, who was also in-charge of Arunachal Pradesh, resigned late on Thursday night after 100-odd Raj Bhavan sought his removal for lowering the dignity of the Raj Bhavan.

President Pranab Mukherjee accepted Shanmuganathans resignation on Friday and gave Assam governor Banwarilal Purohit additional charge of Meghalaya.

In a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the employees had alleged that Shanmuganathan seriously compromised the dignity of the Raj Bhavan and made it a young ladies club.

It has become a place where young ladies come and go at will on direct orders of the Governor...Many of them have direct access to his bedroom, they said.

Read l Congress demands FIR against former Meghalaya governor Shanmuganathan

The letter also alleged that, Deka, who handled Shanmuganathans social media accounts, used to work from her bedroom in the Raj Bhawan, which was attached to the Governors bedroom.

When this governor was in charge as governor of Manipur, Chinmoyee used to accompany the Governor to Imphal and stay in the same room with the governor in Raj Bhawan, Imphal, the letter mentioned.

The letter also blamed secretary Sangpliang of turning a deaf ear when some women staff members of Raj Bhawan went to him earlier to complain against Shanmuganathans activities and misbehavior.

In a meeting with Raj Bhawan staffers on Friday, the IAS officer clarified and mentioned that he had attended to the complaint.

There was a complaint by a woman staff of rude behaviour by the former governor. I asked her to lodge it in writing, but she said she would do so if such incident recurred, Sangpliang said.

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Highway sectors budgetary allocation for 2017-18 fiscal is likely to be increased only marginally even as the Narendra Modi government has set an ambitious target of building almost 40 km of roads per day. Governments road-construction target was 20 km per day during UPA-II.

Sources said the highways ministry is likely to get Rs 58,000 crore, up from Rs 57, 976 crore it got in 2016-17. It had sought around Rs 90,000 crore.

The marginal increase means the ministry will have to run a tight ship in the new fiscal, officials said.

Budget 2017: Education sector may get more funds, IITs to benefit

This comes at a time when the ministry has unveiled an expansion programme of constructing 20,000 kilometres of national highways over the next three years. This includes the Bharat Mala project that envisages developing 6000 km roads along coastal and border areas, Char Dham project connecting four pilgrimage spots including Badrinath and Kedarnath and Sethu Bharatam involving building 350 bridges and rail over bridges in two years.

Highways ministry, however, maintains the not-so-generous allocation will not prove a stumbling block for the proposed projects as of now. The finance ministry has allowed us to raise approximately Rs 59,000 crore from the market. This along with the budgetary allocation will see us through in the new fiscal, said a ministry official.

But ministry officials caution if the present allocation trend continues in the next couple of years, it can hit the highway-expansion programmes. If the government wants the highways infrastructure to be a catalyst for economic progress, it will have to continue the current level of investment in the next 2-3 years, said Rohit Kumar Singh, member (finance), National Highways Authority of India.

Budget may hike service tax, make eating out, movies and flying costlier

The Modi government, like the NDA government under Atal Behari Vajpayee, has given top priority to the sector that had hit a rough patch since 2007.

The government realises that road construction is vital for creating jobs and raising incomes, infrastructure experts said. According to credit rating and research firm Crisil, the construction sector was the most labour-dependent among all non-agricultural sectors, requiring more than 12 people to produce R10 lakh of real output.

Infrastructure experts admit the sector has probably got one of the biggest boosts since 1998 when the then NDA government launched the National Highways Development Project, the largest government initiative to date to expand and upgrade the capacity of the Indias shambolic highway network.

Between 2014-15 and 2016-17, the overall allocation to the highways sector has increased by 73 % -- from Rs 1.3 lakh crore to Rs 2.25 lakh crore.

The one sector that will outperform is highways. The progress in the last two-and-a-half years is laudable. But the ministry has to be careful otherwise it might get affected by the high expectation syndrome. Apart from a quantum jump in terms of project allocation, the quality too needs to improve, said Vinayak Chatterjee, chairman of infrastructure consulting firm Feedback Ventures.

Chatterjee says the ground conditions are right for a higher allocation. But he concedes there are tough challenges that the government will have to address if the current pace of development has to continue. These range from land acquisition issues, stressed balance sheet of highway developers and banks, laden with NPAs, that are reluctant to lend, he said.

In the last two years, the government has taken a slew of policy initiatives to raise revenue and lure back the private sector to invest in highways sector. With the appetite for PPP (public private partnership) projects going down, the highways ministry decided to first move to the EPC (engineering procurement contract) model where the government funds the entire project.

It also introduced a new model called hybrid annuity where the government gives 40 % of the construction cost while the developer invests the remaining 60 %. The new model will not result in reduced equity investments by developers, but will also reduce initial capital outflow for NHAI. Besides, the government also finalised the blueprint to auction completed public funded road projects to domestic and international players for operation and maintenance for a 15-20 year period.

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An irate mob on Saturday attacked the Ausgram Police Station in this district with sticks and brickbatted it causing injury to police personnel and set its waiting room on fire.

The mob attacked the police station with brickbats following which reinforcements were sent. We are now at the spot. Three policemen were injured in the incident, Burdwan superintendent of police Kunal Agarwal said.

IG Burdwan Range, Rajesh Kumar Singh is also at the spot and many persons have been detained.

On Friday, a mob had attacked the police and blocked the arterial Ausgram-Guskara Road protesting against the detention of three school teachers and alleged that they were manhandled at Guskara in Burdwan district.

The SP said Saturdays incident has no link with yesterdays as the matter was peacefully settled.

Stating that some people have been identified, Agarwal said After interrogating them we will come to know who were involved in it.

Sub-inspector Dipak Pal, who was at the police station at the time of attack, was seen on TV channel crying while describing the incident.

He claimed around 3,000 people attacked the police personnel, set some rooms on fire, damaged police vehicles and barracks.

They pelted big stones. Can I face that?, he said, adding seven to eight policemen were injured.

Local Trinamool Congress MLA Abhedananda Thunder alleged that todays incident was masterminded by CPI(M).
Defending its action of vandalising the sets of upcoming Indian period drama Padmavati and assaulting its director Sanjay Leela Bhansali, the Rajput Karni Sena on Saturday warned that they will not let the history of their ancestors be tarnished, adding that they would defend their Rajput lineage from ignominy.

The protestors manhandled the director on Friday and alleged that the film has love scenes between Queen Padmini and ruler Alauddin Khilji, played by actors Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh.

Speaking to ANI in Jaipur, founder patron of the fringe group Lokendra Singh Kalvi asserted that if history and traditions are not respected then nothing but doom awaits them.

The Karni Sena claims that Padmini was a proud queen known for taking her own life rather than submit to Alauddin Khilji, the emperor who attacked the Chittorgarh Fort.

Does Bhansali have the nerve to go to Germany and make a fiction film against Hitler? Even when Jodha Akbar was being made I had raised objections as one cannot insult our blood-spattered history, Kalvi added.

He further alleged that the shooting was being carried out without permission, adding that the Sena would not allow obscenities on the land of Rajputs against its own ancestral icons.

Meanwhile, condemning the attack on Bhansali, Rajasthan home minister Gulab Singh Kataria said that flouting the law to express anger is not called for, adding that probe would be initiated in the matter.

In such case, anger is instinctive but it shouldnt be done outside the purview of law. One cannot express anger by breaking the laws. They could have filed a police complaint instead of taking law in their hands, Kataria told ANI.

Twitter is abuzz with the comments and reactions of various Bollywood celebrities, including Hrithik Roshan, Karan Johar, Sonam Kapoor to support the Padmavati director.

Favouring Bhansali, the Kabil actor took to Twitter and said, Mr. Bhansali , Sir. I stand with you. This is so infuriating!!!!

Coming out in defence of the ace filmmaker, Johar tweeted, Am appalled at what has happened with Sanjay Bhansali..this is the time for all us as an industry to stand by our people and fraternity!!

Having been through many instances of turmoil during a film shoot or release.i understand Sanjays emotion at this point.I stand by him, he added.
India plans to build treatment facilities for patients exposed to chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) attacks as part of its comprehensive disaster management plan.

The Union ministry of health and family welfare has sanctioned the construction of four hospitals, each with 50 beds, for the purpose. As of now, we do not have a facility dedicated to treating CBRN victims. This is part of the Centres broader disaster management plan. The ministry has already sanctioned Rs 80 crore for each hospital, and will allot more if required, said Dr Jagdish Prasad, director general of health services.

The hospitals are expected to come up in Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Maharashtra and Delhi.

In the national capital, the health ministry plans to build the facility on the premises of either Safdarjung Hospital or the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS). Land has already been allotted for the purpose in the other three states.

The original plan was to set it up at Safdarjung Hospital, but there seems to be some problem. So, we might just have to borrow an acre of land from AIIMS instead, said Dr Prasad.

The ministry trains medical personnel from various states to handle CBRN victims in collaboration with agencies such as the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre in Mumbai. These trained personnel then become a part of state rapid response teams.

Using CBRN weaponry is considered an unconventional warfare technique, and specialists are required to handle situations where hazards such as these are present. Though we are keeping ourselves prepared, it is not meant only to handle terror attacks. There have been instances of disaster such as the 2010 Mayapuri radiation leak, where a dedicated facility of the kind would have helped, said Dr Prasad.

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A decade ago, Pattanam was a quiet, nondescript village 30km north of Cochin. Even today, its narrow lanes wind past country houses and the sea always feels like its just past the next clump of coconut trees. But for many years, local children rummaging in the sand had found old glass beads and pot shards that pointed to ancient encounters. The villages name, too, gave its secret away: The word has its origins in Prakrit, in which it could mean either a ferry or a port.

In 2007, the Kerala Council for Historical Research (KCHR), an autonomous body supported by the state government, began digging in the village and was immediately struck by the richness of their finds. Over nine years, the team of archaeologists unearthed over 1.29 lakh artefacts, some dating as far back as the Iron Age (years 1000 to 500 Before Common Era), and giving evidence of trade with the Mediterranean and Arabian Peninsula at the peak of the Roman Empire (1st Century Common Era).

But in September 2015, the Archaeological Survey of India suspended KCHRs license to excavate at Pattanam and launched an inquiry into the work it had done till then. This was in response to a complaint by the Bharatheeya Vichara Kendram, an affiliate of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, who claimed that the project was a collective conspiracy and propaganda to claim that Pattanam was the ancient Muziris.

Last month, the ASI, whose assent is mandatory for any excavation in the country, closed its inquiry and renewed the organisations license to dig at the site. But by then, funds had dried up and research had almost ground to a halt. The project now faces an uncertain future after the retirement in 2016 of KCHRs director, PJ Cherian, who has steered the excavations from the start.

Archaeology is a mine-field in India, where the creation of a national identity has had to contend with the diversity that its people have inherited  a history of mixing, a fear of contamination. Simplistic notions of the past come up against a common problem: too much history.

In one pit researchers found a wharf structure, a wooden dug-out canoe and bollards, all dating back to the Early Historic Period. (GRIST Media)

At the time that excavations began in Pattanam, some historians had a hunch that the village was the site of the fabled Muziris mentioned in classical Roman and Tamil literature. Minor archaeological excavations in the past had turned up foreign pottery from the area. Anyone familiar with archaeology could tell the difference between local and non-local materials among the finds, said Cherian.

But the archaeologists werent prepared for the volume of material they unearthed: black-and red-ware pottery and iron implements traced back to the Iron Age; non-local ceramics and glassware pointing to trade with the Mediterranean in the Early Historic period (years 300 BCE to 500 CE); turquoise glazed pottery that continues into the medieval period (500 to 1500 CE); and even Chinese ceramics as recent as the 16th Century.

From the start, the team realised it needed to look far and wide for help: Greek and Latin scholars to understand the classical literature on Muziris; geologists to explain sediment deposits and their contexts; laboratory scientists to date the artefacts using radio carbon tests; and paleo-botanists to reconstruct the vegetation and food habits of the time. Archaeological research has two fundamental aspects: it must be interdisciplinary and collaborative, said Cherian. KCHR sought experts and training from several institutions in the country, in addition to the British Museum in London, the Palace Museum in Beijing and the Universities of Oxford and Rome. When its license was suspended, the KCHR had just signed an agreement with the Palace Museum to set up a laboratory at the Pattanam site.

Glass beads and decorative stones found at the site (GRTSI Media)

The assemblage of Roman amphorae  large storage jars for wine, olive oil and fish sauce  were the biggest, found in India, according to Roberta Tomber, an honorary fellow at the British Museum, a specialist in Mediterranean ceramics and one of the first collaborators on the dig. From the outset, it was clear that the evidence from Pattanam was exceptional and would do much to progress our understanding of Indo-Mediterranean trade, said Tomber.

The artefacts confirmed several details that were only hinted at in textual sources for Greco-Roman trade with the region. In the classical literature of the Sangam age (300 BCE to 300 CE), the prized port of Tamilakam (of which present day Kerala was a part) was Muciri Pattinam. The poet Tayankannaanar, in Akananuru, described it as a prosperous town on the banks of the beautiful Culli river [Periyar], where the Yavanas [Westerners] come with their fine ships, bearing gold, and leave with pepper.

Black pepper, a precious commodity for preserving meat and enlivening tastes in the West, was bought in large sums from Indias south-western coast and Muziris was the hub of this trade. The Roman naturalist, Pliny the Elder, described it as the first emporium of India (77 CE).

Historians had long debated the location of the port. Kodungallur, which was earlier believed to be the site of Muziris, hadnt turned up any artefacts from before the medieval period. Pattanam is only 12 km away, said Cherian.

The Periplus Maris Erythraei, a 1st Century CE navigational document says: Muziris, in the kingdom of Keprobotos, owes its prosperity to the ships that come from Ariake and Greece. It lies on a river 20 stades [about three kilometres] from its mouth. Ships would anchor on the coast and the cargo would have to be fetched on smaller boats that plied up and down the Periyar River. Today, a tributary of the river flows a short distance from the site, where in one pit researchers also found a wharf structure, a wooden dug-out canoe and bollards, all dating back to the Early Historic Period.

The excavation site in Pattanam (GRIST Media)

The allegations from Hindutva groups werent new  since the early years of excavations, there were claims in the press and in Hindutva blogs that the equation of Pattanam with the ancient port gave credence to Syrian Catholic legend that the apostle Thomas had sailed to Muziris from the Red Sea in the 1st Century CE, bringing Christianity to the state before it even reached the West. A credence that they didnt welcome  Dr KN Madhusudan Pillai, director of BVK told the Times of India in September 2015, that the only motive of these excavations is to establish that there was no Brahmanical heritage of Kerala and that it was only after St Thomas arrived that culture came here.

The KCHRs research hasnt examined the religious practices of the time and moreover, according to Cherian, the name is immaterial. The story starts around 1000 BCE, when there was no Muziris. There are also finds from post-Muziris.

The researchers, for their part, have been cautious in declaring that Pattanam is Muziris but they dont hide their enthusiasm at what the evidence suggests. The quantity of Mediterranean material that has been excavated from Pattanam, in conjunction with ancient Tamil and classical written sources, strongly supports the equation between Pattanam and ancient Muziris, said Tomber.

The brick structures and the toilet arrangements (GRIST Media)

In one of the later seasons of the excavations, the team hit upon Cherians favourite pieces of the Pattanam puzzle: Architectural remnants in the form of brick flooring, drainage networks, ring wells and toilet structures  suggesting that it was a planned urban settlement. Theres evidence of the trade, with luxury goods like pepper and frankincense. But who were these people? The bricks and toilet structures humanise these findings, said Cherian.

The only written clue found at the site, which perhaps points to its religious life, is a potsherd inscribed with five letters in Tamil-Brahmi script, which dates back to the 2nd Century CE. The letters read as amana, possibly linking to sramana, meaning a senior Buddhist or Jain monk.

Contentions over identity arent the only problems that such projects face. In India, as in other developing countries, archaeology is controlled and funded by the government, which is often insensitive about the people inhabiting a historical site. In Pattanam, where over 3,000 people live on every square kilometre, unused land is scarce. People thought their land would be forcibly taken away. The colonial practice was to evict people from their land in order to conserve a site. We wanted to move away from that approach. said Cherian. According to Cherian, KCHR paid market rates for the land and launched a Green Archaeology initiative. It provided bicycles and employment to the locals, built a childrens museum at the site and also started a one-year post-graduate course in archaeology in Pattanam.

As Rachel A Varghese, a researcher on public archaeology at the Jawaharlal Nehru University writes in her 2015 essay, Archaeology and the New Imaginations of the Past, the Hindu Rights grievances, though directed at the excavations, were actually a reaction to the Muziris Heritage Project (MHP), launched by the state government around the same time as the start of the excavations. The Rs 200 crore project, meant to conserve Keralas heritage and repackage its charms for tourism, covers 150 sq km spread across five panchayats in Ernakulam and Thrissur districts. The area includes Pattanam and 16 other historical sites, for example, the Paravur Jewish Synagogue, Cheraman Juma Masjid, Mar Thoma Church, Paliam Dutch Palace, Kodangaloor Bhagavathi Temple, etc. Visitors can combine these on theme-based tours conducted as part of the MHP.

The choice of monuments, writes Varghese, perfectly captures Keralas cultural syncretism, although it does this by stretching the historical sweep of Muziris. All of these were built centuries after the port ceased to be active. The fall of the Roman empire seems to have led to the slow decline of the Muziris port, said Cherian. The quantity and richness of artefacts begins to shrink after the 5th Century CE.

Potsherd withTamil-Brahmi script (GRIST Media )

One has to be very careful when identifying historical sites, but hypotheses are fine, feels Cherian, adding, On the other hand, if artists or the public want to re-imagine that history, isnt that a good thing?

In that spirit, Cherian and the state government have supported art projects that have reclaimed the cosmopolitanism of Muziris. In 2009, the states departments of education, culture and tourism joined hands with the celebrated Malayali artists, Bose Krishnamachari and Riyas Komu, to plan the Kochi Muziris Biennale  a three-month-long arts festival, bringing together artists, galleries and cultural institutions from across the country and the world. Now, in its third edition, curated by contemporary artist Sudarshan Shetty, the Kochi Biennale has turned into one of the most important arts events in India. Previous editions of the biennale have had artists reflecting on the ports history, most notably Vivan Sundarams installation using 8 lakh potsherds to reflect on the pepper trade, titled Black Gold.

Seated on the Aspinwall House terrace overlooking the Kochi harbour, Krishnamachari told me how the choice of Kochi was a natural one. In the 14th Century, when a flood destroyed the site, the port shifted to Kochi. More than 30 countries used to have trade relations with Muziris. Thats a huge number when you consider it was 2,000 years ago, said Krishnamachari, wearing his trademark printed shirt and fluorescent glasses. Aspinwall House, a sprawling property in the Fort Kochi area, once housed an English trading company and is now owned by the DLF group. Its now the main venue of the Biennale. (Simultaneous exhibitions take place in at least 10 other locations spread across the rapidly gentrifying neighbourhoods of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry, in the historic old quarters of the city.)

Krishnamachari described the Biennale as a collaborative effort, which brought together not just diverse arts and artists, but planners, architects, historians and intellectuals within Kerala. That cosmopolitanism, that kind of global acceptance existed and still exists here. Kochi has accepted everybody as they are: The first mosque, the first church and synagogue in India, they were built here. I would say its almost like a mirror and for me a mirror is not a reflector; its a receiver.

***

The ASIs approval in December also includes a license to survey another site to the south, in Kollam (Quilon in the ancient trade routes). We are also interested in the Kollam site to understand the continuation of the Muziris story, after it disappeared. We dont think it really stopped entirely. It might have moved, said Cherian.

The 22-foot-long Peutinger scroll on the table (GRIST Media)

The Tabula Peutingeriana, a 22-foot-long scroll that sits in Vienna, is the only surviving map of the trade routes of the Roman Empire. It depicts towns, seas, rivers, and roads. The scroll in Vienna is a late medieval era copy of a map dated to the 5th Century. At the centre of that world is Rome  on its Western edge are the British islands and in the opposite end is Muziris.

Cherian believes that the Indian subcontinent was blessed by nothing more than geography for its place in the trans-oceanic trade routes. The land mass juts out like a jetty in the Indian Ocean. It also had a network of 44 rivers, so there was contact with the hinterland, he said. Its connections to other ports were thus spread wide  to Guangzhou (China), Khao Sam Kaeo (Upper Thai-Malay Peninsula), Ormara (Pakistan), Khor Rori (Sumhuram, Oman), Berenike (Berenice, Egypt), and Cilicia (Turkey), to name just a few.

There was exchange, of technology, people, ideas and goods. Im not comfortable with the term globalisation because of its modern connotations, but it is the first time that cultures far and near came closer, said Cherian. But to his team, Pattanam was no end of the earth. It played a presiding role in that history.

(In arrangement with GRIST MEDIA)
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This year, once again, several watchmakers are honouring Chinese astrology with limited editions that celebrate the artistic crafts. The Yin Fire Rooster, the tenth animal in the Chinese zodiac, is brave, determined and honest. For watchmakers, this divine messenger also has particular significance, as he tells the time by crowing at sunrise every day.

Jaquet Droz  Petite Heure Minute Rooster and Petite Heure Minute Relief Rooster

Jaquet Droz has longstanding ties with China, where it was one of the first watchmakers to offer its inventions back in the 18th century. The companys annual creations based on the Chinese zodiac, a potent symbol of this relationship, go back several years. Most of them are in the Petite Heure Minute collection.

These year sees two new models devoted to the rooster, each in two versions. The two Petite Minute Roosters in red gold, with a diameter of 39 mm, or 35 mm for the version set with 232 diamonds (each in a limited edition of 28), have an ivory grand feu enamel dial decorated with a naturalistic miniature painting. The colours are muted, with the exception of the cockerels red comb, echoed by two peonies. The self-winding calibre Jaquet Droz 2653.P also celebrates the rooster with an engraving on the rose-gold rotor. The two Petite Heure Minute Relief models, in rose gold (limited edition of 28) and white gold set with diamonds (series of 8) pay tribute to Chinas favourite stone, jade, with the art of sculpture. The dial with inlaid jadeite and engraved white mother-of-pearl represents a painted landscape dominated by a rooster jauntily announcing daybreak, in rose gold, or (for the diamond-set version) white gold with hand-painted red and blue plumage.







Vacheron Constantin  Metiers dArt Legend of the Chinese Zodiac

Vacheron Constantin is another watchmaker that can boast of historic ties to the Middle Kingdom  since 1845, to be exact. It has a specific collection dedicated to the Chinese zodiac  Legend of the Chinese Zodiac  which uses calibre 2460 G4, an automatic movement that tells the time without the benefit of hands, using four small windows to display the dragging hours and minutes, and jumping day and date, while leaving as much space as possible on the dial for an artistic representation of the animal of the year. The cockerel for 2017 is hand-engraved and positioned in the centre of the grand feu enamel dial, which is decorated with 18-carat gold foliage, creating a subtle three-dimensional effect. The 40 mm watch comes in a limited edition of 12 in rose gold and brown, and 12 in platinum and blue.







Chopard - L.U.C XP Urushi  Year of the rooster

Chopard also celebrates 28 January each year with a new ultra-thin model in the L.U.C XP Urushi Chinese Zodiac collection, featuring a lacquered dial. The lacquer, which is obtained from the resin of the urushi tree, is enhanced with thousands of minute particles of mother-of-pearl, giving the dial a subtle iridescence. The dials, made in Japan by an urushi grand master, feature a splendid crowing cockerel braced on two golden feet, with the rising sun to the right, and eight lucky red gladioli. The plumage of the Yin Fire Rooster, which is delicately carved onto its body, explodes with vivid shades of turquoise on the long and majestic feathers in its tail. Inside the 18-carat rose gold case, the self-winding L.U.C 96.17-L calibre uses twin barrels to provide a 65-hour power reserve. The watch is produced in a limited edition of 88.







Panerai  Luminor 1950 Sealand 3 Days Automatic Acciaio 44mm

There is nothing in the name to suggest that this model is dedicated to the Year of the Rooster, apart from the fact that Panerai uses the Luminor Sealand collection, with its protective cover, for special limited editions. The ninth timepiece in a series devoted to the Chinese zodiac, this 99-piece limited edition pays homage to an ancient Italian engraving technique that takes its name from the tool used to produce it: the sparsello. Gold wires are inserted into grooves carved into the steel cover of the watch to create the design of the cockerel with puffed-out chest, surrounded by floral garlands. Inside the watch is the automatic P.9000 movement, which drives the hours, minutes, a small second register and date.







Ulysse Nardin  Classico Rooster

Over at Ulysse Nardin, its the Classico collection that traditionally welcomes the specially designed Chinese zodiac pieces. The 88 Classico Rooster watches in rose gold honour the animal of the year with champleve enamel. The cockerel, larger than life and captured in a realistic pose, confidently occupies the entire centre of the brown dial, against which the deep blue of its plumage, the white of its neck and head and the red of its comb provide a bold contrast. The rooster is outlined with lively dashes of gold, which deftly convey the energy of the bird. The COSC-certified automatic UN-15 movement drives the hour, minute and second hands that rotate from the centre of the dial.











Bovet 1822  Amadeo Fleurier Monsieur Bovet

Bovet has chosen one of its convertible Amadeo models for its understated yet colourful miniature painting depiction of the rooster on a luminous white mother-of-pearl background, which fills the dial. On the back, the off-centre white lacquer dial shows the unusual design of the in-house Virtuoso II calibre with its inversed hands and double co-axial seconds.
Union commerce minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Saturday the statutory advisory body Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) will not challenge the bill passed by Tamil Nadu to allow the bull-taming sport Jallikattu.

There is no animal welfare board case at all in the Supreme Court, she told reporters here while reacting to questions of AWBI reportedly going against the law in the apex court.

Hitting out at anti-national elements who had allegedly burnt the national flag and targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a disparaging fashion during the Jallikattu stir at Marina beach here, she said such groups should be identified and action taken against them.

Questioning how peaceful protests at Marina beach had turned violent and who was behind it, Nirmala, a native of Tamil Nadu, said, There is absolutely no doubt that anti-national forces had infiltrated.

Read | Jallikattu: Tamil Nadu advocate says animal board lawyer not authorised to file plea

Questioning if those who burn the national flag and disrespect it were not anti-nationals, she reiterated that such elements who had allegedly indulged in such acts should be identified.

The institution of prime minister should be respected, whoever is the prime minister...today it is Modi, there had been many before him, the position must be respected, the commerce minister asserted.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Tamil Nadu chief minister O Panneerselvam were allegedly targeted by a section of protesters in a derogative fashion during the stir.

Answering a question on alleged police excess and some uniformed personnel involving in arson, Nirmala said, A fair probe should be held... people should not be targeted (by police).

She said both her party and the central government had always stood behind the cause of Jallikattu.

She said the Centre did not bring an ordinance on allowing the traditional sport as the one promulgated in 2016 was stayed by the apex court.

Had we issued one more ordinance to allow Jallikattu, it would have been tantamount to disrespecting the court, that was why the Centre did not issue an ordinance again and we supported the state government in its initiative, she said.

Read | Jallikattu protests: Was the students movement in Tamil Nadu hijacked?

Answering a question on Congress targeting BJP on the issue, the BJP leader said, Congress should be apologising to the people of Tamil Nadu. They were the ones who brought the 2011 notification that bulls cannot be performing animals. The party read the sentiment of the people wrong, they remained disconnected from the Tamil Nadu people.

On a question related to the Centre allegedly taking a stance against Tamil Nadu on the setting up of Cauvery Management Board, Nirmala defended the Centre, saying the government had only told the top court that it should be done through parliamentary process and not based on a court directive.

On the drought situation in Tamil Nadu, she said a Central team was assessing the damage.

She added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was following the line of Team India, and no state will be ignored.

Read | Jallikattu: Tamil Nadu CM says Osama bin Ladens posters shown during protests
Former high court judge Justice P Vishwanath Shetty was sworn in on Saturday as the Karnataka Lokayukta, a year after the post fell vacant following a bribery scandal that had hit the office of the anti-graft ombudsman.

Shetty was administered the oath of office by governor Vajubhai R Vala at a ceremony at Raj Bhavan.

Chief minister Siddaramaiah, state ministers, judges of the high court and senior officials were present at the ceremony.

The governor had given his assent to Shettys appointment on Thursday after the government replied to clarifications sought by him.

Vala had returned the file seeking some clarifications, reportedly following allegations that Shettys family owned a site in violation of norms.

The post had remained vacant since Y Bhaskar Rao, a former high court chief justice, stepped down in December 2015 amid public pressure to quit over an alleged bribery scandal involving his office and son.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that rulers and governments do not make a nation.

Kings, emperors, rulers, govts dont make a nation. Citizens, youth, farmers, scholars, scientists, shramiks, saints make a nation, the Prime Minister said in his addresses at annual National Cadet Corps (NCC) rally in Delhi on Saturday.

Modi also hailed the NCC cadets saying, When I see you, NCC cadets, I feel confident about the future of India. I feel proud of our yuva shakti (youth power). The life of a NCC cadet is beyond the uniform, the parade and the camps. The NCC experience provides a sense of mission.

Modi also put his faith in the countrys youth. NCC cadets can act as catalysts to bring change in their families and at large in the society, he said.
A 52-year-old man was electrocuted while standing in a queue to withdraw money from a bank in Sahatwar police station area here, police said on Saturday.

The victim, Puranmasi, of Dumari village was standing in the queue at the Sahatwar branch of State Bank of India on Friday when he tried to place his bag on a nearby trolley-mounted transformer of the bank, superintendent of police RP Singh said.

He was electrocuted and died on the spot, police said.

The body has been sent for postmortem and a case has been lodged against unidentified persons for negligence, they added.
Information and broadcasting minister M Venkaiah Naidu on Saturday termed as highly objectionable the manhandling of filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali and said one cannot take law into own hands.

Manhandling of Sanjay Leela Bhansali and disturbing the shooting of film is highly objectionable.

No one can take law into own hands. Spoke to Vasundhara Raje ji and asked her to take necessary action, he said.

Bhansali had to cancel the shooting of his film Padmavati in Jaipur after the set was vandalised by a Rajput group and he was assaulted.

The assault triggered outrage in the film industry and Bhansali termed it as uncalled for and extremely damaging to the image of the beautiful city.

Members of the Rajput community group stopped the shooting by damaging the set at Jaigarh Fort, alleging that the director was distorting facts in the movie which is about Alauddin Khiljis obsession with Rani Padmavati.

Refuting claims of the fringe group that the film will feature an intimate scene between Alauddin Khiji, played by Ranveer Singh, and Rani Padmavati (Deepika Padukone), Bhansali said there is no such sequence.

Read | Sanjay Leela Bhansali attacked: Team says Padmavati has no objectionable scene
Much of Nagaland shut down on Saturday following a call by tribal organisations to protest against urban local body (ULB) elections scheduled for February 1. The strike will continue till election day with a day-long respite on Sunday.

The strike is in retaliation to the Nagaland cabinets decision on Friday night to go ahead with the ULB polls. Tribal NGOs have been against the polls because 33% reservation of seats for women across the states 32 municipal and town councils.

Though the strike is from 6 am to 6 pm till February 1, there will be no strike on Sunday, said a spokesman of the Joint Coordination Committee (JCC), the umbrella body of several tribal organisations.

Sunday is when most people in the Christian-majority Nagaland head for the church.

The JCC had earlier called the strike from January 27 but deferred it after chief minister TR Zeliang invited the tribe hohos (associations) for a discussion that went nowhere.

After discussing at length the appeals made by various organisations for deferment of the municipal elections, the cabinet decided that the elections cannot be deferred and shall be taken to the logical conclusion as per provision of the law, Himato Zhimomi, commissioner and secretary to Zeliang, said in signed statement on Friday night.

We had no alternative but to impose the strike against the ULB polls where quota, and not capability, has decided the candidature of women, the JCC spokesman said.

The Nagaland ULB polls have not been held for more than 10 years because traditional tribal bodies that do not provide space for women in local administration were opposed to it.

But Zeliangs Naga Peoples Front (NPF) government is determined to hold the polls to convey the message that the state and Nagas as a whole are not against empowering women.

The world is moving towards greater gender equality, and there is no reason why women in Nagaland should not be given an opportunity to show their administrative capability starting with local bodies, NPF president Shurhozelie Liezietsu said.

Nagaland has had no woman legislator since it became a state in 1963.

There have been reports of people having been armed with catapults, sticks and other crude weapons for a possible showdown with security forces. Groups of volunteers have also been organised by JCC to lay siege to administrative buildings and block key traffic junctions.

The government, sensing violence, has sought the services of central paramilitary forces besides putting the state police and commandos on high alert. Besides restrictions on large public gathering, mobile phone data and broadband services in Nagaland are expected to be down from 5 5 am of January 29 to 10 pm on February 1, the day of polling.

Meanwhile, the Joint Action Committee on Women Reservation (JACWR) has appealed to the tribal organisations to let the ULB polls be held without further hiccups. If the municipal polls are held peacefully, we will withdraw the single leave petition (in the Supreme Court, seeking reservation for women), Abeiu Meru, JACWR convenor, said.

The SCs interim order based on the petition made the Nagaland government adopt a resolution in the 60-member assembly to hold the ULB polls. The process was started on December 21 last year.

In the face of opposition, intimidation and threat of exile, candidates in only 26 of the states 32 civic bodies filed nominations. A total of 535 candidates including 188 women had filed their nominations. But by January 17, 140 of the candidates had withdrawn their nominations under pressure, leaving 395 in the fray. Nagaland election officials have not specified how many of the 140 who withdrew are women.

Of the contestants standing, 17 have been excommunicated. All belong to the Ao community, considered among the most progressive of Naga tribes.

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Iranian President Hassan Rouhani criticised his US counterpart Donald Trump on Saturday, saying now was not the time to build walls between nations.

They have forgotten that the Berlin Wall collapsed many years ago. Even if there are walls between nations, they must be removed, Rouhani said at a tourism convention in Tehran.

His remarks came after Trump ordered construction of a wall along the US-Mexico border and imposed tough new controls on travellers from seven Muslim countries, among them Iran.

Rouhani did not comment directly on the visa ban, but said Iran had opened its doors to foreign tourists since the signing of a nuclear agreement with world powers in 2015.

With more than a million Iranians living in the United States, many families are deeply concerned about the implications of Trumps visa ban, which also affects citizens from Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

No visas will be issued for migrants or visitors from these countries for at least 90 days, a restriction which can be extended if the countries in question do not provide extensive information on individuals seeking to enter the United States.

Tehran and Washington have not had diplomatic ties since students stormed the US embassy in Tehran in 1980 following an Islamic revolution that toppled the US-backed shah.
Nearly five years after RTI activist Shehla Masood was shot dead in Bhopal, a CBI court on Saturday convicted interior designer Zahida Pervez and three other accused for the murder, and sentenced them to life imprisonment.

It took the Central Bureau of Investigation 137 court hearings, 83 witnesses and a 4,400-page chargesheet to bring the accused to book.

Judge BK Paloda, presiding over the Special CBI Court, pronounced Zahida, the prime accused, and three othersher friend Saba Farooqui, Saqib Ali alias Danger and Tabishguilty in the high-profile case. The fifth accused, Irfan, was given clemency for turning approver in the case.

Masood was found dead inside her car just outside her residence in Koh-e-Fiza area in Bhopal on August 16, 2011 when she was on her way to attend the demonstration called to support Anna Hazares India Against Corruption campaign. Initially, the police had termed it as suicide, but after furore, the case was handed over to CBI on August 19.

The case had hit the national headlines after a Bharatiya Janata Party legislator, a RSS functionary and other high-profile persons were questioned in connection with the murder. There were speculations that Shehla, who had filed several RTI queries in some alleged corruption cases, might have been killed due to her activism.

After the verdict, Zahida claimed the CBI had forged facts and evidences against her. We got this extreme verdict without any concrete evidence and witnesses, its nothing but CBI pressure which rules the roost in MP, she told reporters.

According to the CBI, Zahida shared a close camaraderie with former BJP MLA Dhruvnarayan Singh and was jealous of Masoods growing ties with him. Zahida approached Saqib Ali, who had criminal record, to eliminate Shehla. Ali, in turn, had hired shooters Tabish and Irfan, to kill the 38-year-old RTI activist. The CBI had arrested Zahida on February 28, 2012.

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Abdul Sattar was just 12 years old when India was partitioned in 1947, yet it was the macabre of 2013 riots in western Uttar Pradesh that has shaken him to the core.

In 1947, the violence lingered on for over two months, but it was never so bad that we would have to leave our homes, the octogenarian said.

Sattar was among the thousands of people who shifted from the villages of Muzaffarnagar to neighbouring Kairana after the Jat-Muslim riot broke out in August 2013.

Houses around ours were set on fire and we were forced to leave our village Ranagana, he said. Nearly 5,000 families had moved out from the violence- stricken western UP district never to return. An estimated 3,000 victims landed in makeshift tents in the Malakkpur refugee camp on the outskirts of Kairana.

Now, two years later, the camp has been disbanded and its residents moved to two colonies that have come up with the help of the local MLA, Samajwadi Partys Nahid Hassan. The one that Sattar lives in has been named Manawwar Hassan colony after the MLAs father and has 128 brick houses and around 230 huts.

He (Hassan) has promised to give us pucca houses after the elections, says Mohammed Haroon, 35, who moved from Kirthal village. Two kilometres away, the Sapa colony  named after the Samajwadi Party  houses around 1,200 people.

Most people in the two settlement colonies have also been enrolled as voters. The constituency now has nearly three lakh voters with a Muslim majority.

The government held special camps for the voters of these colonies to provide them with Aadhaar cards and voter IDs, says Mohammed Alim, who manages the local Jan Seva Kendra  where people get Aadhaar cards. His family has lived in Kairana for generations.

A law graduate and an M Com degree holder, Alim says the riots have changed the way people see elections here. This area did not see any violence. But, the riots have changed the complexion of Kairana completely. No Muslim will vote for a BJP candidate anymore, he said.

The BJP has given ticket to sitting Kairana MP Hukum Singhs daughter Mriganka Singh from the seat. Singh represented Kairana in the state assembly seven times before he moved to the Lok Sabha in 2014. His nephew, Anil Chauhan, who had contested the assembly by-election in 2014, is now a candidate for the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD).

Singh has been accused of instigating violence during the Muzaffarnagar riots. Last year, in June, he had also alleged that 346 Hindu families had fled Kairana due to the building communal tensions.

The Muslim population is on the rise and Chauhan would have got the Hindu votes here because of that. But, now that vote will get divided, says the RLD contestants name sake Anil Kumar Chauhan who is a deed writer at the local court.

Sitting legislator, Nahid Hassan is also an accused in a case of violence. A protest that he was leading on May 3, 2015 in Shamli turned violent and allegedly damaged railway property.

If it wasnt for the politicians, Kairana would have never been divided on communal lines. There has never been a riot here, says cloth merchant Sushil Kumar.

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Senior Congress leader and former Karnataka chief minister SM Krishna resigned from the party on Saturday.

The 85-year-old leader conveyed his decision to quit from the Congress Working Committee (CWC) in a letter submitted to party president Sonia Gandhi.

Taken aback by his move, the Congress leadership has deputed party general secretary BK Hariprasad, who hails from Karnataka, to persuade the veteran leader to take back the resignation.

It is not clear what prompted the former Union minister for external affairs to take such a decision. Krishna was not available for comment. However, he has called a press conference on Sunday, where he is expected to speak about his decision.

Congress sources said Krishna was feeling suffocated in the party for a long time. Though inducted into the CWC, he was not given any important organisational role either at the national level or in the state. He hardly attended meetings of the partys highest decision making body.

Krishna led the Congress to victory in the state in 1999 and served as the chief minister till 2004. He was instrumental in making Bengaluru the IT capital of the country.

He first became a member of parliament (MP) in 1968 from Mandya. He also served as the governor of Maharashtra for the period 2004-2008.

(With agency inputs)
Donald Trump Twitter (Photo : Twitter)

Most presidents or national leaders have a so-called honeymoon period with the media and the country he or she leads during the first 100 days in office. But it was not the case for the combative Donald Trump who had accused credible media organizations such as CNN of making fake news even before he took his oath of office on Jan. 20.



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As a result, there are Womens Marches against the 45th president of the U.S. not only in key American cities but other global cities as well. In China, he antagonized the country by tweeting about Beijing claim over disputed South China Sea islands which angered Chinese.



Fake Tweets



Given those circumstances, it is not surprising that despite Twitter being blocked in China, Chinese are making fake tweets using the handle @realdonaldtrump which has become the latest Internet sensation in the Asian giant. Jike, a startup in Shanghai, opened a website where locals could generate images of fake tweets that seem to have been sent by Trump himself, New York Post reported.



The fake tweets includes the presidents avatar and a real-time timestamp. After four days since Jike opened the website, around more than 1 million fake tweets in English and Chinese have been generated. The fake tweets often imitate the tone and characteristics of Trumps real tweets often full of exclamation points. The fake tweets are then shared on social media sites.



Alternative Facts



The fake tweets mania comes at a time that even Facebook are legitimate news organizations are becoming stricter in weeding out fake news. It also comes on the heels of the phrase alternative facts becoming a buzz word following its usage by Kellyanne Conway, adviser of Trump, over the embarrassing photos of significantly smaller crowd at the Jan. 20 inauguration rite for Trump in comparison to the humongous crowd during Barack Obamas inauguration ceremony, Bloomberg reported.



Apparently, the Chinese users of Jikes website are just enjoying themselves generating alternative tweets.






Farmers will get compensation for the crop loss in the recent hailstorm and rain, chief minister Vasundhara Raje said on Saturday.

I have instructed the revenue, and disaster management and relief departments to conduct a survey (girdawari) of the damage to the crops in the recent hailstorm that hit several parts of the state for a couple of days, Raje said after inaugurating the Falaudi Mata Mela at Khairabad in Kota district. After the survey, relief will be provided to the farmers.

The chief minister said work on the Takli medium irrigation project in Ramganjmandi would begin soon. I have told the Kota district collector to resolve all disputed issues related to the Takli irrigation project, Raje said, adding that she had provided 52 crore for the construction of the dam during her previous tenure as the chief minister.

A large number of devotees from the Medatwal community (Vaishyas) attend the month-long Falaudi Mata Mela, organised once in 12 years at Khairabad.

Falaudi Mata Mela is an example of communal harmony since Muslims, Gujjars and other communities have offered their land and wells for the fair, which is very unique, Raje said. It is my wish that the environment of communal harmony and peace created by the fair should prevail in entire Rajasthan.

She said the state government would promote Falaudi Mata temple and put it on the tourism department website.

State urban development and housing minister Shrichand Kriplani, Kota MP Om Birla, fair organising chairman Mohanlal Chaudhary and saints were present on the occasion.
Social activist and Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA) leader Medha Patkar urged the Rajasthan government on Saturday to ban liquor, and called for a stringent law in the country to ensure de-addiction.

She reached Bharatpur from Alwar and met members of the Gulabi team who have been protesting against liquor shops for the past several months. Inspired by Uttar Pradeshs Gulaab Gang, the Gulabi team was formed and so named because of the pink sarees and matching slippers its members wear.

Patkars visit is part of her national campaign for a drug-free India that was launched on January 23 at Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad. The campaign  to be carried out in Gujarat, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh -- will end at Rajghat in Delhi on January 30.

Encouraging the Gulabi team members, Patkar said, This team has contributed immensely in spreading liquor prohibition movement throughout Rajasthan and due to this, people identify them all over country. Gulabi team leader Prem Lata Sulania thanked Patkar for her support.

The Gulabi team members sat on dharna for three months to protest against opening of liquor shops in their localities. Women from various localities joined their protest.

Until women, who are the main suffers, rise against this menace, it is impossible to prohibit liquor. Netas only talk and make false promises, Patkar said.

Youths in the country are taking to drugs and alcohol. Addiction is on the rise and violence and torture are also increasing in society due to addiction. Chief minister of Rajasthan Vasundhara Raje should consider initiating a ban on alcohol. All state governments should follow the Bihar government which banned alcohol, Patkar said addressing a gathering in Bharatpur.

Criticising the Centre over demonetisation, she said the move had failed to control black money. The poor, farmers, labourers, and the common man are still facing cash crunch.

She said, Demonetisation has helped industrialists and the government should disclose feedback before people about seized black money.
Gangster-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansaris Qaumi Ekta Dal (QED) has been on a political roller-coaster ride for the past six months. The QED, which has pocket of support on some assembly seats in Eastern UP, merged with Samajwadi Party in June 21, last year.

Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav, who was partys state unit chief, sacked cabinet minister Balram Yadav for facilitating the controversial move and a demerger was announced. But QEDs dalliance with SP was revived when Shivpal Yadav replaced Akhilesh as SPs UP unit chief in October. After a two month hiatus and denial of party tickets by SP, Mukhtars party on Thursday hopped on Bahujan Samaj Partys bandwagon accusing the ruling SP of backstabbing it.

While Mukhtar is in jail, Hindustan Times spoke to his two brothers Afzal Ansari and Sibghatullah Ansari and their love-hate relationship with SP.

We never thought that a person holding such a high office would lie, use and later discard us like this, said Afzal recalling his brief association with SP. He sounded circumspect. But spilled the bins after a little prodding, I would not like to say much about our future plans as our party (BSP) discourages airing of views and opinions through media but people have seen and read how we have been treated.

Read more: Will Mayawatis Mukhtar gamble get her Muslim vote?

Sibling Sibghatullah Ansari, a sitting MLA from Mohamdabad Yusufpur assembly seat, however, is scathing and slams the ruling Samajwadi Party of treachery and being anti-Muslim. We voted in favour of SP five times: three times in legislative council and twice in Rajya Sabha elections. If we were untouchables, criminals, where were their ethics then? You cannot run with the hare and hunt with the hounds at the same time, he asks. What is more, I gave a signed affidavit in favour of the CM as partys national president before the poll panel. I met him a couple of days ago at his official residence and he told me to go back and start campaign in my constituency, he said. All this while I canvassed support for SP in my region. But I was shocked when a few days later, I was told that my seat had been allotted to Congress and that SP will also field its candidate against Mukhtar, he added.

We decided to join SP as you do not live in Rome and fight with the Pope. But we never sought any favours for our unstinted support. In fact, when I along with Mukhtar met the CM during the previous UP assembly session, he told us how netaji (Mulayam Singh Yadav) had changed his perception about us and everything was alright, said Sibghatullah, who is now BSP nominee from his traditional assembly seat.

Read more: Mayawatis Mukhtar gain is SPs loss

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Two drunk men crossing the busy Mumbai-Pune expressway late on Friday night died after being hit by a driver who likely did not spot them in the dark.

Krushna Chavan, 40, and Dullappa Bhise, 50, both from Karnataka, worked at a private firm near the Kon village in Raigad district. The police said they were hit while crossing the expressway near the village, around 10pm, by a car coming from Pune. Chavan and Bhise were rushed to a nearby hospital, but they succumbed to their injuries, said Nilam Pawar, police sub-inspector at the Panvel taluka police station.

Officials said autopsy reports revealed the two men were under the influence of alcohol, but the drivers medical report showed he was sober while driving. The police have, however, arrested the driver Avinash Sonawne.

Pawar said people were not allowed to cross the highway in that area. The two men were illegally crossing the road when they were hit, she told HT.

Sonawne, a resident of Kharghar, was on his way home from Pune with his wife. He lost control of the vehicle when he saw the two men, and ended up hitting them. We have arrested him and booked him under relevant sections of the IPC and Motor Vehicles Act, Pawar said.

He was produced before the judicial court on Saturday afternoon, Pawar said.

The Mumbai-Pune expressway has been notorious for road fatalities. Last year, state health minister Dr Deepak Sawant said 4,634 accidents had taken place on the expressway between 2010 and 2016, in which 1,323 people had been killed. Experts say human errors and tyre bursts were behind most accidents.

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Cross Mumbai-Pune Expressway, but take precautions, say cops

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Six days after she went missing, Babita Singh, 30, a scientific officer with Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) returned to her Navi Mumbai home early on Saturday.

After writing an e-mail to some of her relatives and senior BARC officials about harassment at her workplace, Singh had left her home in Dwarkanath CHS in Nerul on Monday and gone to Shri Aurobindo Ashram in Pondicherry.

On Thursday, she called her family and informed them about her whereabouts. Her relatives from Uttar Pradesh then left for Pondicherry and brought her back to the city.

When HT visited her house on Saturday, her fiance Devendra Singh said, She reached home early on Saturday and is doing well now. However, she is a little depressed and so she is staying at one of her friends place now.

When asked if they are planning to register any complaint against BARC officials, Singh said, We have not registered any case.

Sub-inspector from Nerul police station Sadananda Sonkamble said, We took her statement on Saturday. She said that she had left home because of the mental torture and harassment that she had faced at work. He added, So far they have not registered any FIR against BARC officials with us.

Also read: 79-year-old former BARC official shoots self

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The Bombay high court has asked the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) to decide by February 8 whether it will allow the two American couples to take back their frozen embryos from a city hospital.

A division bench led by Justice AS Oka has also directed the centre to explain the reason for the delay in taking a decision despite repeated representations from the couples. In view of the new surrogacy rules, the court had previously asked the Centre to make an exception on humanitarian grounds and take a reasonable and swift decision.

The court was hearing a plea filed by two San Francisco couples who came to India in 2015 looking for a surrogate, after they failed to conceive a child biologically. They brought eight frozen embryos, found surrogates and entered into a written contract with them, according to the rules in place at the time.

Before the embryos could be implanted into the surrogates wombs through IVF, the surrogacy rules in India changed with the introduction of the Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2016. The rule now allows only altruistic surrogacy for childless Indian couples who have been married for at least five years. It also mandates that the surrogate mother be a close relative of the couple.

To ensure implementation of the new rules, there is also a ban on the import and export of frozen embryos. So when the two couples decided to return to their country, the government disallowed their plea of taking back their eight embryos.

They had first approached the HC in September last year. The court had asked the centre for its response. Then, in a subsequent hearing, the court directed the centre and the DGFT, which woks under the ministry of commerce and industry, to apply their mind and make an exception for the couples considering that had followed all rules.

On November 5, the couples wrote to the DGFT requesting it to take a decision but failed to get a response.

In the hearing earlier this week, the union government told the court that the DGFT was yet to make up its mind.

Read:

Dont lend us womb, but let us take back our embryos: US couple to HC

Surrogacy law: Bombay HC tells Centre to help 2 US couples stuck with ban

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At a time when the government of India is promoting skill-based training among young people, colleges in Mumbai are struggling to attract sufficient number of students to courses that were introduced to train the youngsters for jobs.

Despite getting grants from the University Grants Commission (UGC) to boost vocational training in universities and colleges, the Bachelor of Vocation (B.Voc) has attracted negligible applicants. Nagindas Khandwala College in Malad recently returned the grant given by UGC to conduct B.Voc due to lack of students enrolling for the course. Theres need for more awareness among students to explain the importance of this course. We had around 30 students in the first year whereas there were barely five students in the second year. So we decided to return the grant money, said Ancy Jose, principal. She added the university as well as the UGC needs to introduce some incentive for a limited period to encourage more students to take up this course.

Skill India was one of the biggest campaigns that the central government  spearheaded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi  had started in 2014, following which UGC launched a scheme on skill-development training at universities and colleges. University of Mumbai was one of the first universities in the country to start B.Voc courses and seven affiliated colleges had started offering the course including Nagindas Khandwala, Ramnarain Ruia (Matunga), HR College (Churchgate), to name a few.

In the first year (2014-15), 354 students had enrolled in various subjects under B.Voc. In 2015-16, this figure was at 280.

Meanwhile, students said that they were not convinced that the course was useful. The course is extremely slow and it does not seem like there will be many job opportunities after we complete the course. Im planning to drop out after first year and look up at vacancies in Industrial Training Institute courses, said Sufiyan Pathan, a first-year B.Voc student of KB Patil College in Vashi.

While six other colleges are still running the course, many are worried about the losing interest among the students. Students still look at the name of the course and take step back. Vocation is still a ghost term to many and even before finding out what the course entails, they make their mind against it, said Usha Mukundan, principal of Ramniranjan Jhunjhunwala College, Ghatkopar. Her college runs two B.Voc courses  Financial Market & Services and Retail Management, and the first batch will pass out from the course this year. We manage the best from the industry to interact with our students and now we hope to get them good placements as well. Hopefully, once this batch is placed, well be able to attract more students to these courses, she added.

While the lack of knowledge or interest in the case is just one part of the issue, principals are also worried about the existence of grants to run this course. So far colleges have received a one-time grant for three years to run B.Voc courses but there is no guarantee that the grant will be given to colleges again. As of now the course fees is equal to that of a B.Com degree, thanks to the grant, but next year onwards if we dont get the grant, we will face trouble. Finding industry experts to teach students can be financially draining and we are hoping that the UGC will extend the grant to support this course, said the principal of another college, on condition of anonymity.

Also read: Skill India, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao themes for 68th Republic Day tableaux

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A developer appointed for the redevelopment of a building must treat all tenants and occupants at par without conferring additional benefits to a selected few, the Bombay high court has ruled.

The court recently struck down a separate deal agreed upon between the developer, SIA Developers LLP, and two tenants of a city building for extra monetary benefits, over and above the terms of agreement.

It was hearing a plea filed by SIA Developers against 16 occupants of the Krishna Kunj building who postponed to hand over vacate possession of their flats owing to their childrens ongoing school term.

Justice Gautam Patel asked the developer to deposit the extra amount meant for the two tenants with the high court.

It is not possible to have a development agreement which creates this kind of imbalance or lack of parity between others who are equally situated, said Justice Patel.

The developer had agreed to provide the two tenants additional 20% and 10% of the carpet area. Similarly, it had decided to pay the two Rs95 and Rs80 per square foot for alternative accommodation for the period of redevelopment against Rs70 per square foot for the other 14 occupants.

I believe it is axiomatic that all tenants and occupants should be treated on parity, said the judge, adding, Each individual tenant or occupant cannot negotiate a one-sided deal for himself or herself.

The judge said in such a situation not only the developer stands to lose, but more importantly, a majority of the tenants are forced either to accept poorer terms than those afforded to the select handful. The inequity in this situation is self-evident.

According to the terms of agreement, the occupants were supposed to handover vacant possession of their respective tenements to the developer within 45 days of obtaining the intimation of disapproval (IOD). Although the IOD was obtained by the developer on March 30, 2016, the 16 occupants did not vacate their premises within the stipulated time.

The court asked them to vacate the premises by February 28 for redevelopment.
The police arrested a Mulund-based engineer who murdered his 30-year-old estranged wife when she refused to get back together with him. The accused, Jayesh Mhadlekar, fled to Hyderabad but returned to the city on Saturday.

Mhadlekar and Shreya were married for 12 years. They have a 10-year-old son. However, their relationship soured after he started suspecting her of having an extra-marital affair. He grew abusive and would harass her after getting drunk, said the police.

The murder took place last Thursday at the couples house at PK Road in Mulund, which Shreyas parents had gifted them.

Owing to the constant harassment, Shreya moved in with her parents.On Wednesday, Mhadlekar allegedly arrived at Shreyas parents house and tried to convince her to get back together with him. She refused. On Thursday, he returned and insisted once more.

Shreya and he left for the private hospital where she was employed.

However, she never made it to work. Suspecting foul play, her mother Madhuri, 52, looked for her at the PK Road house  a ground-plus-one structure.

The police learnt that Mhadlekar took her there and hit her on the head with an iron rod. In her statement to the police, Madhuri said she found her daughter in a pool of blood upstairs.

After murdering her, Mhadlekar got on a train and went to Hyderabad. He reached his friends house and borrowed money from him, said an officer from Mulund police station.

The police, who were on the lookout for him, received a tip-off that he was near Kalyan railway station on Saturday. He was arrested outside Shivam Hotel near the station around 4pm. He will be produced before the metropolitan court on Sunday.

The couple had lodged close to 25 non-cognisable complaints against each other owing to their dispute. In her statement, Shreyas mother described Mhadlekars abusive behavior. There was an incident in which Mdhadlekar pulled her hair out. Six months ago, he hit her on the head with a cooker, she told police. She added that she had tried to counsel him in the past, to no avail.

Read

Engineer kills wife for refusing to stay with him in Mulund home, is on the run

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The battle for Mumbai is officially on. In a stinging response to Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackerays decision to walk away from the alliance, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday called the former ally in the civic body and its partner in the state government a party of extortionists whose dominance over Mumbai for the past 25 years was a huge loss to the megapolis.

The remarks came in Fadnavis address to his party cadre at the Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) show-of-strength rally in Goregaon, the venue where Thackeray broke off the alliance on January 26. The CM blamed the Senas refusal to come on board with transparency agenda and promise to change corrupt practices for the saffron allies split.

Drawing a parallel to the epic Mahabharat, the CM equated the battle for the countrys richest civic body to the Dharmayudh, and former ally Thackeray to Duryodhana, whose many advisors, like the wily Shakuni mama, had jinxed the alliance for the upcoming polls.

I had only insisted on one thing. It was not about seats, but that the agenda should be transparency. Why is this agenda not acceptable to you? There is a difference in your thinking and doing and that has to change. We came to power in 2014 because the people were fed up of corruption and scams... You cannot make use of Shivaji Maharaj only in speeches and then go out under the saffron flag and collect hafta (extortion), said Fadnavis.

He said the Senas offer of only 60 seats to the BJP made it clear they were never keen on an alliance. The CM also said as part of the saffron alliance, the BJP for the past 25 years as a small party had supported the Sena and helped it elect its own mayor year after year. But this came come at a cost to the city, he said. The last 25 years was a big loss for Mumbai because the city was under your control. The lesson from this is that you should not let anyone drag you... it comes at the cost of public good.

Fadnavis clearly pitted the BJPs campaign for Mumbai on the twin planks of development and anti-corruption, as against the Senas emotive issues and identity politics, which he said was akin to giving people marijuana pills. Only during elections are communal, regional and parochial agendas flared up, Fadnavis said. It is time to move away from this. The BJP will follow the only agenda given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in this election, and that is sab ka saath sab ka vikas (development for all).

The CM made it a point to highlight work done by his government in Mumbai over the past two years, right from setting up free Wi-Fi spots to planning the 200-km metro network and affordable housing. He claimed the Sena had been hypocritical when it came to big-ticket infrastructure projects such as the coastal road or Metro 3, working against development instead for it.

At the rally, there were liberal references to the Mahabharat  the BJP being given the righteous role of Pandavas, while Sena being referred to as Kauravas.

Mumbai city chief Ashish Shelar, who also addressed the rally, made it a point to show the BJP was as rooted to Mumbai, if not more, than the Sena.

With this rally and Fadnavis speech, mudslinging and name-calling between the former allies are likely over the next week, as attacks on neither Fadnavis nor Thackeray is off limits now.

The CM tried to walk the tightrope by spelling out the BJPs battle with Sena was not on ideological grounds but on issues of governance, as it did not agree with their corrupt work.

READ MORE

Shiv Sena MP blames Devendra Fadnavis for all scams in Mumbai civic body

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A company displays proposed solutions for Smart Home technologies, the future of residential real estate, during the Internet of Things World conference at the Convention Center in Dublin last year. (Photo : Getty Images)

Opportunities for collaboration in the Internet of Things (IoT) sector between Chinese manufacturers and the Indian IT industry were explored during a China-India IT symposium recently held in Nanjing in Jiangsu Province.



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According to a Global Times report, the symposium was organized by the Consulate General of India in Shanghai along with the Nanjing Municipal People's Government, in partnership with NASSCOM, the chamber of commerce of the IT-BPO industries in India.



The report said that the day-long event was attended by about 50 major Chinese companies from sectors that include aviation engineering, intelligent equipment manufacturing, health, smart grids, energy saving and environmental protection technologies, new generation IT, and big data cloud computing.



A dialogue among CEOs was also held, participated in by representatives from the Indian IT companies such as Infosys, Wipro, TCS, HCL, Tech Mahindra. Sessions on artificial intelligence, IT application in the time of Internet Plus and on the ecological construction of intelligent industry, were also held, the report said.



Prakash Gupta, the Consul General of India in Shanghai, opened the event. He urged both Indian and Chinese companies to further collaborate in the IT and IT Enabled Services (ITES) sector. He said Chinese companies must take advantage of opportunities presented by the "Make in India" initiative of the Indian government.



On the other hand, Xie Zhizheng, Vice Mayor of Nanjing Municipal Government, welcomed Indian IT companies which are engaged in collaborative ventures in the Chinese market.



Gagan Sabharwal, director of global trade development for NASSCOM, said that the combination of Chinese manufacturing skills and Indian software knowledge could result in a "natural win-win" situation for companies from countries and enable them to collaborate to produce world-class products.



As the world's largest sourcing destination for the IT industry, India accounts for 67 percent of a $124-130 billion market. Due to its intellectual capital, the country became popular among several global IT firms which eventually set up innovation centers in India.


Why is there a total deficit of public discussion on healthcare in India? asked Nobel laureate Amartya Sen at a conference organised by Tata Memorial Centre to mark its 75th anniversary.

The three-day long conference, that started on Friday, is being held at Tata Institute of Fundamental Research to discuss access to universal healthcare.

Sen said that during the 2014 general elections, neither the political parties nor the citizens made healthcare an issue during the campaigns, highlighting the need for more discourse on the subject.

According to Sen, some of Indias neighbours have overtaken the country in terms of their social indicators. While India has been overtaking other countries in terms of its earnings, it has been overtaken by its neighbours in terms of their social indicators, he said.

He added that Bangladesh, which is poorer than India, has surpassed India in terms of many social determinants such as immunisation of children, infant mortality, education of girls and sanitation facilities. Bangladeshs per capita income is only half that of India but that has not prevented it from offering better living conditions to its citizens, he said.

A couple of decades ago, India had the second best social indicators among the six south Asian countries, including Pakistan, Sri lanka and Nepal and Bhutan. It is now among the second worst, ahead only of Pakistan, Sen added.

The Nobel laureate also said that Indias expenditure on public healthcare must increase. India allocates only a little over 1% of its GDP to healthcare whereas China allocates 3%, he said.

Also read: Demonetisation akin to unguided missile: Amartya Sen
With its former ally now metamorphosed into its single-largest threat in the upcoming Mumbai civic elections, the Shiv Sena is carefully sharpening its knives to take on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) across the citys 227 wards and is under fierce pressure to stamp its authority on its home turf.

The party has already taken the lead in its campaign on social media. Its campaign will be a mix of Marathi pride, demonetisation and what it did for the city.

While the party is confident it can retain its traditional Marathi votes by raising the issue of Marathi pride, according to sources, it is also planning to convert the discontent among non-Marathi communities , such as the Gujarati trading community, against the Centres demonetisation move into votes.

The contest between the two parties is likely to be the fiercest in areas such as Borivli, Vile Parle, Goregaon, Andheri, Dahisar and Mulund where the BJP has its legislators, but the Shiv Sena has a strong number of corporators. Before calling the alliance off, the Shiv Sena conducted an internal survey, which estimated that the party can modestly end up with a tally of 105 to 115 if it contests alone, while the BJP can at the most touch 70 to 80, say Sena leaders.

The party, which has consistently been opposing Prime Minister Narendra Modis demonetisation move, plans to use the much-debated scheme to campaign against the BJP ahead of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) polls.

The party will campaign against demonetisation especially in Gujarati-dominated areas, with most of the trading and business community in Mumbai being Gujaratis.

Demonetisation has severely hurt the trading community in Mumbai. The Sena has never been anti-Gujaratis. This is a misunderstanding created by a few over the years. The Shiv Sena is pro-Mumbai and anyone who works in the citys interest is a Mumbaiite in our eyes. Those hurt because of demonetisation will now see Shiv Sena as a credible alternative, a senior Sena leader said.

Besides, the Sena will also highlight several delays by the state and Union governments in approving proposals of the BMC.

Rahul Shewale, Member of Parliament (MP), from the Shiv Sena, said, The urban development department is sitting on various proposals of the BMC, which if passed efficiently can make peoples life easier. We will highlight that the department is headed by none other than chief minister Devendra Fadnavis.

Proposals approved by the BMC such as opening up certain areas of Mumbai 24/7 to improve nightlife, a parking policy, creating a theme park at Mahalaxmi Racecourse have been pending with the state government, according to Sena leaders.

Even in Thursdays gathering where Sena Chief Uddhav Thackeray formally ruptured his partys alliance with the BJP, he spoke about how the BMC had completed work on the Middle Vaitarna dam within 3.5 years and it is only due to delays by the state and the Centre that the project took much longer to complete.

Sena leaders said, with the growing animosity between the two parties, party workers had an inkling that the Sena might have to contest independently in the 2017 BMC polls and has been preparing since a year by consciously taking up works in BJPs wards and increasing the Senas presence.

The party, which is fine-tuning its list of candidates, also plans to field more non-Maharashtrian candidates in areas where other communities are in strong numbers.

In the Colaba, Girgaum, Kalbadevi belt, for example, while Girgaum has always been a Shiv Sena stronghold, the wards in Kalbadevi and Colaba areas have a dominant Gujarati population and have mostly been loyal to the BJP.

Pandurang Sakpal, senior Sena leader from the region, said, We are looking to field candidates who the communities can relate to. From among the wards in South Mumbai, leaving aside the core Maharashtrian heartlands, more than half the names on our candidates list are non-Marathis.

READ

BJP would even brand Shivaji, Tilak as anti-national for politics: Shiv Sena regrets 25 years of alliance

How the polite, shy Uddhav Thackeray made the Shiv Sena roar

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Krishna, the 18-year-old leopard at Sanjay Gandhi National Parks (SGNP) rescue centre in Borivli, is seriously ill.

Veterinarians who have been caring for her said she has been undergoing treatment for chest infection and sores over the past five days. The average lifespan of a leopard is 12 to 14 years. Considering Krishnas age, we are doing everything we can to help her recover. However, she remains critical and unresponsive, said Dr Shailesh Pethe, veterinarian, SGNP. He added that she is being administered saline and antibiotics. She hasnt eaten for the past two days. We do not know if her condition will deteriorate further, he said.

Krishna had been abandoned by her mother at a sugarcane field near Pen in Raigad district as a cub. (HT Photo)

Krishna was a three-month-old cub when she was brought to the park in 1999. She had been abandoned by her mother at a sugarcane field near Pen in Raigad district. She is the only leopard at the centre who does not mind being touched by people. Whenever we called her by name, she would come running out of her cage to greet us, said said Shailesh Deore, range forest officer, SGNP.

He added that after hearing about Krishnas condition, SGNP officers gathered at her cage on Saturday, hoping for her recovery. Krishnas mate, Raja, died in 2014. She has been lonely since then, said Deore.

In 2014, forest officials suspected that Krishna had food poisoning. Her condition improved after treatment and she recovered.

In December last year, the city lost 16-year-old male leopard, Ahmednagar, one of the oldest animals at the park. He died of old age. He too, had stopped eating for two days, following which his condition became critical.

SGNPs centre cares for abandoned cubs and injured cats that can no longer hunt and feed themselves. There are currently 15 leopards  eight female and seven male  at SGNPs leopard rescue centre, of which four  two male and two female  are between 14 and 16 years.

Read

16-year-old leopard dies of old age at Mumbais Sanjay Gandhi National Park

Sanjay Gandhi National Park wants Mumbai to get a better view of big cats, to submit new proposal for leopard safari

Green diet, exercise: New fitness regimen for Mumbai national park leopards

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After several corruption charges were levelled against the Shiv Sena in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) by its ally-turned-main rival BJP, the party has shot back, saying the responsibility of the civic bodys decisions also lies with chief minister Devendra Fadnavis. Shiv Sena MP Rahul Shewale on Saturday said that Fadnavis should be held responsible for all the allegations of scams in the BMC as the civic body comes under the Urban Development Department, which is headed by Fadnavis.

The chief of the BMC, the municipal commissioner, is appointed by the chief minister. Whenever proposals are approved by the standing committee of the BMC, it goes to the commissioner and the Urban Development Department (UDD) for final approvals. The UDD is headed by the chief minister.

Earlier, BJP leaders such as Ashish Shelar and Kirit Somaiya had alleged corruption in the BMC and said that their party would end the mafia raj in the civic body.

Countering Somaiyas recent statement that BJP would come out with a black paper on corruption and malpractices in BMC by the Sena, Shewale said, Somaiya doesnt know the functioning of the BMC. In every process, the chief minister is involved. He (Fadnavis) should thus, clarify who is responsible for corruption.

Shewale, who is a former chairman of the standing committee in BMC, added that Sena is ready to disclose the names of the mafias if Fadnavis would take action against them. He dared Somaiya to name the mafias. If you have the courage, take action. When Somaiya is alleging a road scam in the BMC, does he not know that a charge sheet has been filed against all the contractors responsible and that the BMC has not given any money to those contractors? Shewale asked.

The MP from Mumbai South Central constituency further alleged that Somaiya is demanding the closure of the dumping ground at Mulund to help a prominent builder.

Somaiya was protesting against Mulund dumping ground; it was just to help a private builder, who has land adjacent this dumping ground, Shewale alleged.

Shewale also accused Somaiya of several scams in his constituency.

READ

Ahead of election, BMC clears proposals worth Rs1,000 crore in 40 minutes
Two people were killed after a man ran over them with his car on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway when the two were crossing the road on Friday night. The police have arrested the driver from the spot.

According to the police, Krushna Chavan, 40, and Dullappa Bhise, 50, both natives of Karnataka, worked with a private company near Kon village in Raigad district. Around 10pm, they were crossing the highway to reach the other side, when they were run over by a car coming from Pune.

Both Chavan and Bhise sustained injuries. They were rushed to a nearby hospital, but they succumbed to their injuries after some time, said Nilam Pawar, police sub-inspector from Panvel taluka police station.

According to Pawar, it was illegal to cross the highway in that area. The deceased were illegally crossing the road when the accident took place, she told HT.

The car driver, Avinash Sonawne, 35, a resident of Kharghar, was returning home from Pune with his wife. He lost control of the vehicle and ended up hitting the two. We arrested him from the spot, she said.

The police have booked Sonawne under sections 279, 304a of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and sections 184 of the Motor Vehicle Act. He was produced before the judicial court on Saturday afternoon.

In a letter to members of the state legislative assembly in the first week of December, state health minister Dr Deepak Sawant said that a total of 4,634 accidents had taken place on the expressway between 2010 and 2016, in which 1,323 people had lost their lives.

According to the experts, human errors and tyre bursts were behind most accidents on this highway. Four people died and six others were injured in another accident on the expressway on December 27, which was caused by a tyre burst.

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ST bus goes off Mumbai-Pune Expressway after tyre burst, 8 injured

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The Greater Noida authority has started construction of a boundary wall of the proposed landfill site and the waste-to-energy plant in Astoli. The plant is being set up to scientifically dispose of solid waste generated in Noida and Greater Noida.

Noida came into existence in 1976 and Greater Noida in 1992. Around 660 metric tonnes of municipal waste is generated every day in Noida and 200 metric tonnes in Greater Noida.

However, there is no landfill site to dump the waste. The solid waste generated in the two cities is dumped on vacant plots and roadside, in the absence of a scientific mechanism.

We started construction of the boundary wall on January 23. We aim to complete it by March-end, Anand Mohan Singh, general manager of the Greater Noida authority, said.

However, residents of Astoli (Greater Noida), where the 110-acre landfill site and waste-to-energy plant are being set up, are objecting to it on the grounds that it will pollute the environment, including groundwater and the air.

Officials claim that it will not give out a foul smell as they will use scientific methods to convert the waste into energy. But we do not trust them as the landfill sites and waste plants in Delhi stink, Rahul Kumar, a resident of Astoli, said.

Environmentalist Vikrant Tongad had also complained to the Uttar Pradesh State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) and demanded that the authority follows environmental norms during the construction of the landfill site so that it does not affect the ecology.

I have demanded that the authority obtains clearances from the central ground water board to extract groundwater for construction work at the landfill site. The authority should take special steps such as using recycled water, ensuring that no damage is caused to wetlands and using only non-polluting fuel for the construction and operations of the waste plant, Tongad said.

Following the complaint, SEIAA has sought a report from the Greater Noida authority on the project.

The Greater Noida authority said it will follow the environmental norms so that it does not impact the ecology.

Villagers need not worry because we will adhere to the norms. The waste-to-energy plant at the landfill may be functional only by 2018 as it is time-consuming to complete all procedures. Once the work on the boundary wall is over, we will develop a 100-metre wide green belt on the periphery so that residents do not suffer due to the foul smell, Singh said.

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Four people including a woman techie were killed in Ghaziabad when a speeding Audi rammed head on into an autorickshaw they were travelling in, police said on Saturday.

The autorickshaw driver was among the dead in Wednesday nights accident that highlighted the menace of reckless driving, identified as one of the major killers on Indian roads annually.

The incident occurred past midnight at Indirapuram, on a narrow road that runs parallel to the Hindon canal.

The dead have been identified as Yajuvendra Singh Sengar, 40, his cousin Vishal Singh, 25, and their family friend Rinku Yadav, 38, who worked with HCL in Noida. All hail from Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh.

Vishal had come to appear for a job interview, police said quoting family members.

The auto was completely destroyed, and all its occupants were killed in the mishap. (Sakiib Ali/HT Photo)

Police identified the auto driver by his first name, Sanjeev (25).

The occupants of the high-end SUV, an Audi Q7, fled and are yet to be identified.

The vehicle was registered in the name of Manish Rawat, a senior doctor at Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi, police said.

He stays at Sarita Vihar but he could not be found at his residence or at the hospital... We have also registered an FIR against unidentified persons and sent police teams to trace the car-owner, said PK Tripathi, the station house officer of Indirapuram.

Police have slapped charges of rash driving and causing death by negligence against the unidentified occupants of the Audi which is believed to have been travelling at speed up to 100 kmph.

The autorickshaw was crushed into a heap of mangled steel under the impact of the collision.

Their (the victims) faces and head had injuries and a lot of bleeding had taken place. We could not identify them and used their mobile phones to call up their contacts, Tripathi added.

The incident occurred barely a few days after two similar incidents involving speeding high-end vehicles.

On Friday, a 48-year-old Uber car driver and two passengers were injured when a speeding Range Rover SUV rammed their taxi in north Delhis Civil Lines.

The driver of the SUV was said to be under the influence of alcohol.

On Sunday, a 32-year-old driver lost his life after a speeding BMW driven by a 24-year-old MNC employee crashed into an Uber cab from behind near the IIT hostel in South Delhi.

A road accident takes place every four minutes in India, government data show, and road crashes are the number one killer of young men and women.

Almost 97% of the road accidents are caused by rash or negligent driving including drink driving. The number of people killed in road accidents on national highways shot up from 48,768 in 2012 to 51,204 in 2015, the statistics show.

Last month, the Supreme Court ordered closure of liquor shops along the highways despite opposition from state governments.

The government has brought in a new law to ensure prompt help for road accident victims, easing rules for citizens who come to their aid.

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A prospective marriage and job, and the dreams of three families were dashed when a speeding Audi car hit an autorickshaw at the Hindon Canal in Ghaziabad late on Friday, killing four persons in the three-wheeler.

Vishal Singh (25), a BTech engineer from Kanpur, his cousin Yajuvendra Singh Sengar (40), their family friend Rinku Yadav (38), an IT professional with HCL, Noida, and the 25-year-old autorickshaw driver were killed in the accident.

Vishal had been engaged to a woman from Unnao recently. He had come to Ghaziabad in search of a job and was accompanied by Yajuvendra and Rinku, who had arranged the interview, when the accident happened, his relatives said.

Vishal was trying for a job before the date of his marriage could be fixed. He had several rounds of interview and the final decision was awaited, Narendra Singh, uncle of Vishal and Yajuvendra, said, adding that on being informed about the accident, they rushed to Ghaziabad.

Rinku Yadav (first from left), Vishal Singh (25), Rinku Yadav (centre) and Yajuvendra Singh Sengar were killed in a crash crash.

We had a lot of dreams but they are lost now. We were all preparing for his marriage and eagerly awaiting the outcome of his interview. He completed his B Tech (electronics) and had also worked with Lucknow Metro Rail Corporation.

But he left his job and spoke to Rinku to help him get a job in Delhi-NCR. As she is working with HCL, she arranged for his interview and they both came to Ghaziabad on Thursday, Narendra Singh said.

Yajuvendra ran a mattress shop in Kanpur and leaves behind a wife and two sons, aged 8 and 12.

Rinku was the second of three sisters and had completed her MCA. She died exactly a month after her mother expired on December 28, 2016, Subhash Chandra Yadav, who is married to her elder sister, said.

Read: Old, corroded mortar shell found in south Delhis Vasant Kunj creates panic

Rinku did not marry as her mother was not keeping well since 2006. Her younger sister had also left her job in Pune and returned home to tend to her mother. Rinku had worked in Pune and Bengaluru and later shifted to Noida, he said.

Rinku also supported the family as her father retired 6-7 years back (from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited at Kanpur). After her mothers death, we were telling her to marry and settle down, Yadav said, adding that she had just returned to work last Monday.

After their mothers death, all of them initially moved to Noida, and later to Dehradun, where Yadav works as an assistant professor.

Read: Amid Republic Day security, snatchers have a free run in Delhis Daryaganj, rob Romanian

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Ten people, allegedly involved in robbery on various highways in Uttar Pradesh, were arrested by police in Jewar on late Friday night.

Acting on a tip-off about their presence in the area, the police arrested the accused from Jewar. Police recovered a Swaraj Mazda mini truck, four country-made pistols, five live cartridges, two knives, 23, 000 cash and paddy from their possession.

The accused aged between 33 and 40 are Yunus, Yusuf, Nakhre Alam, Devender, Bheek Chand, Showkat, Wahid, Yakub, Hasnain, Ashraf, residents of Ghaziabad, Bulandshahr, Mathura and Jaipur.

On January 8, the accused held a farmer hostage in Jewar and fled away with his paddy. Subsequently, a case was registered by the police at Jewar police station.

All were living in a rented accommodation in Ghaziabad and would go every night on highway to make people their target. Before the highway robberies, the accused were allegedly involved in theft cases in Aligarh, police said.

During questioning, the accused confessed their involvement in more than 12 highway robberies in Uttar Pradesh. With the help of robbed Swaraj Mazda mini truck, they would stop commercial and private vehicles.

Sujata Singh, superintendent of police (Rural), Gautam Budh Nagar said, Intercepting a vehicle with their truck was their modus operation. In all the cases, they robbed people at gunpoint. If anyone resisted, they would open fire in the air to threaten them.

She said the investigations are in progress to ascertain their involvement in other cases of robbery.

The accused were also found to have committed robbery in various farm houses along the highway. Police said the accused had procured the cash after selling half of the paddy.

A case of robbery and arms act has been registered against the 10 accused men and further investigations are going on.
The family members of 65-year-old Singhasan Yadav who murdered, allegedly by four neighbours, have ruled out any communal angle to the incident. Members of a Hindu outfit had come to the area on the day of the murder and tried to give it a communal colour, ahead of UP assembly elections which are scheduled in Ghaziabad for February 11.

The man, who hails from Gorakhpur, was murdered in his residence at Shaheed Nagar, a Muslim-dominated locality near Delhi-Ghaziabad border in Sahibabad.

We dont view it as a communal outburst against my father. It is a case of murder that was done in retaliation after an altercation. We have been living here for several decades now. The young men have been our neighbours and attacked after they had an altercation with my father, who objected to their foul language, Madan Yadav, son of the victim, said.

The family resides in a flat in C-block of Shaheed Nagar. The victim operated a milk dairy and had been a worker of the Samajwadi Party for the last 30 years. The altercation between the victim and his neighbours took place around 9pm on January 25.

He had been active with party work and used to go as a worker and supporter whenever called. On the day of the incident, he had advised neighbours not to abuse or use foul language with women. This led to an altercation and my father slapped the men, who happened to belong to a different community. They also slapped my father, Madan said.

It was around 1.30am when Anas, Asif and Gullu along with another unidentified man allegedly barged into the victims house and attacked him with knives and inflicted multiple blows. He later died while undergoing treatment at GTB Hospital in Delhi.

Following a complaint from the family, the police lodged an FIR for murder, house trespassing and criminal intimidation against Gullu, Asif, Anas and an unidentified man at Sahibabad police station. A large contingent of police personnel was also deployed in the area.

One of the accused, Anas, was later arrested by the police after the incident.

We are trying to trace the other accused persons and teams are searching for them. Police personnel are still deployed in the locality but there is no issue of any communal tension, said Anup Singh, circle officer (Sahibabad).

The accused and their families have fled and there is no one in their house. We want them arrested and punished for the crime, Madan said.

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A Samsung Electronics Co. Galaxy S7 Edge smartphones is displayed at the company's Galaxy Zone store in the COEX mall in Seoul, South Korea, on Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2017. (Photo : Getty Images/ SeongJoon Cho)

New leaked Samsung Galaxy S8 details have been revealed as a photo of the device has surfaced. The flagship Android 7.0 Nougat smartphone from the South Korean tech giant will reportedly sport a larger screen ratio as usual.



Samsung's Galaxy S8 leaked photo comes from reliable leaker Evan Blass from Venture Beat. The alleged photo shows both the front and back of the device which also presents the ports.



Advertisement

One noticeable difference that users may spot in the leaked photo is that the display seems to be taking almost all of the front end of the device. There is no home button in sight and the screen creeps up all the way to the bottom.



The Galaxy S8 base model and the larger Plus variant are expected to sport curved edge screens which means there will be no Edge devices any more in the line. Both models will also sport QHD Super AMOLED screens as expected.



Another difference is that the Samsung Galaxy S8 will still include the headphone jack and a USB-C connector will replace the previous generation, The Verge reported. Charging and transferring of data will indeed be faster thanks to the new USB standard although there may still be problems with compatibility through cables.



Powering the new flagship smartphone is either a Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 or a Samsung Exynos depending on the region. The base 5.8-inch model will have a 3000mAh battery while the larger 6.2-inch variant will have 3500mAh. Both will have 4GB RAM and a baseline of 64GB for the internal storage although expandable storage is still an option for up to 256GB.



While the Samsung Galaxy S8 specs are not expected to be unveiled at the upcoming Mobile World Congress 2017, the company is expected to announce it an Unpacked event in New York City in March. The expected release date is April 21.



Learn more leaked details below:






The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) volunteers, in its campaign for Pankaj Singh, said that womens safety is among the partys top priorities. Raising slogans of Pankaj bhaiyya, the party members also took a shot at the Samajwadi Party, citing the Bulandshahr gangrape incident.

They alleged that the SP failed to ensure law and order in the state.

Today, our mothers and sisters in Noida are no longer safe. Had there been a rule of law in the state, we would not have witnessed the brutal gangrape in Bulandshahr. Both Samajawadi Party (SP) and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) have made women in Noida live in fear, Surajpal Rana, president, Sainik Vihar BJP mandal, said.

On July 29, a Ghaziabad woman and her minor daughter were gangraped near a highway in Bulandshahr. The ruling SP faced criticism from political opponents and residents for its failure to curb crime against women.

The (gangrape) incident proved how helpless the police and administration have become. Apart from being BJP volunteers, we are residents of Noida and for years, we have experienced the apathy of the ruling state. That is why we have decided to campaign for BJPs victory in the state. Only our party can ensure that mothers and sisters can roam freely without fear, Keshav Chauhan, coordinator, Sector 45 BJP mandal, said.

BJPs candidate for the Noida constituency, Pankaj Singh, expressed his desire to improve the law and order situation in the district.

People who commit such heinous crimes (in reference to the Bulandshahr incident) must be punished severely. Our priority is the safety of women and we will ensure it, Singh.

However, not everyone in Noida believes that the BJP will curb crime. Witnessing the campaign trail, 58-year-old Azad Singh of Harijan Basti in Sector 37, who works as a tailor, said that neither Akhilesh Yadav nor the BJP has the intent to improve on the crime rate.

Everyone in Noida knows that there is only one person who can keep criminals at bay and keep the crime register clean, and that is Mayawati. She has, time and again, proved her mettle. Both SP and BJP lack the intent to ensure womens safety, Singh said.

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Bihar would see happier days in power sector in the coming few years.

While the cost of power is set to go down with the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) commencing work on its three coal blocks in Jharkhand, the stage I of the 1980 MW NTPC Barh super thermal power project in Patna district is set to be commissioned later this year. Bihar would get nearly 50% power  1025 MW to be precise  from it.

Regional executive director, NTPC, KS Garbyal said the 3x660 MW units of Barh stage I plant would be commissioned by the second quarter of 2017-18.

Conceived in 1999, this project, as per the revised deadline, was supposed to have been commissioned in 2011 itself. However, Russian firm Technoprom Export (TPE), initially allotted work, failed to meet repeated deadlines, forcing the NTPC to terminate its contract on December 24, 2015. The central PSU subsequently re-tendered and awarded the work to Dussan, a South Korean firm, which is now moving well ahead of its prescribed timeline for commissioning of the project.

At present, Bihar gets 1011 MW from the 2x660 MW NTPC Barh stage II project, the first unit of which was commissioned on November 15, 2014.

Bihar, which now has an installed power capacity of 4,520 MW would add 4,710 MW by 2019-20, Garbyal said.

While Barh stage I would contribute 1980 MW to it, the NTPC joint venture (JV) project with railways (Bharatiya Rail Bijlee Company Limited) would add 750 MW and the NTPC JV with the Bihar State Power Holding Company Limited (Nabinagar Power Generating Company Limited), both at Nabinagar in Bihars Aurangabad district, would contribute 1,980 MW.

Add to this the 2,400 MW Nabinagar stage II project, expected to come up by 2022-23, and Bihars total installed capacity of power would go up to 11,630 MW by 2022-23, Garbyal added.

Meanwhile, the NTPC, which now purchases coal from the Coal India Limited, has commenced work on its three coal blocks allotted in Jharkhand. While it has begun mining from Pakri Barwadih, it has appointed mining developer and operator for excavating coal from Chatti Bariyatu and Kerendari.

The NTPC expects to get 15 million metric tonne of coal per annum from stage I of Pakri Barwadih, where it has commenced mining, and another 2 million metric tonne per annum from stage II, which is expected to be developed by 2020-21.

The NTPC Barh will benefit hugely from the Pakri Barwadih coal of the NTPC, as its per unit power cost was expected to come down by Re 1 per unit from the present Rs 4.72. It would, however, still be higher than NTPCs average per unit cost of power, which was Rs 3.17.

The reduced cost would soften the burden on consumers, as it would affect fixation of power tariff.

General managers Rakesh Prasad (HR), Raj Kumar (operations),VM Prasad (project execution & monitoring), N Madhusudan (finance), assistant general manager (in-charge of commercial) SD Jha and deputy manager (public relations) Vishwanath Chandan were also present on the occasion.

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In yet another attack on Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) minister Bikram Singh Majithia on the drug issue, AAP leader and party candidate from Majitha Himmat Singh Shergill on Saturday released three photographs of Majithia with Canada-based NRI Satpreet Singh alias Satta, who was named in the Bhola drug racket case.

Addressing a press conference here, Shergill, who is AAPs state legal cell head, termed these photographs as prime facie documentary evidence to prove Majithias alleged links with drug suppliers.

Shergill said another accused Maninder Singh alias Bittu Aulakh had already admitted in his confessional statement before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) that Majithia introduced Satta to Jagjit Singh Chahal for supplying pseudoephedrine, a synthetic drug, and other raw material to him, but Majithia had so far been denying the charges.

But these photographs have exposed the involvement of Majithia in drug trade, he said. Reading out a report by the ED, Shergill claimed that Satta also acted as Majithias election agent in 2007 and stayed in his house.

Notably, Satta, Amninder Singh Laadi and Parminder Singh Pindi were three NRIs who appeared prominently in the statement of Jagjit Singh Chahal, the arrested pharma company owner and the alleged kingpin of the synthetic drug racket. He was wanted by the ED for investigation.

The photographs released by AAP leaders were allegedly clicked at Khalsa College, Amritsar, a few years ago. Former SAD MLA Inderbir Singh Bolaria, who is Congress candidate from Amritsar South, and Aulakh are also seen in these photographs.

ASKS MINISTER TO SURRENDER PASSPORT

Asking Majithia to surrender his passport, Shergill also dared him to give up his security cover. Majithia is scared of moving around without security as he is well aware of the public fury over his misdeeds. He has ruined the lives of several youngsters of Punjab by patronising drug trade, he added.

Reiterating the allegations of AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal, Shergill said the AAP has concrete evidence against Majithia and the party would put him in jail soon after forming government in Punjab.

AAP candidate from Amritsar Lok Sabha seat Upkar Singh Sandhu and party nominee from Amritsar South assembly seat Dr Inderbir Singh Nijjer were also present at the press conference.

MAJITHIAS AIDE DENIES CHARGES

Terming the accusations as a mere poll stunt, Sarchand Singh, media advisor to Bikram Singh Majithia, asserted that if AAP leaders considered these photographs as crucial evidence against Majithia, why did not they produce these in court so far.
While only 1.9% government schools in rural Jharkhand do not have toilets, students of 35.3% government schools in these areas are debarred from using toilets, which are despite having the facility in their campus, the latest Annual Survey of Education Report (ASER) has said, highlighting the lackadaisical approach of the government in maintaining the infrastructure they invest in.

In 2016, the state government claimed that almost all 40,000 odd government schools in Jharkhand had toilet facilities. However, due to a lack of sweepers and poor water connectivity, toilets in several village schools remain locked, say activists.

In a majority of the schools, the school management committees are directly responsible for maintaining the toilets. The government has constructed toilets, but there is no mechanism to keep them useable, said Manoj Kumar, member, State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCR).

A lot has been happening in Jharkhand over the usability of toilets in government schools here.

The Jharkhand high court too on January 18 initiated a PIL, suo motu, and deputed court managers to inspect all schools in their districts and file a report on their infrastructure with video proof.

The court also asked for specific information from managers on the condition of school toilets and allied facilities, including availability of running water and sweepers.

The situation, however, has improved significantly over the years, says ASER. In 2010, the survey had found that over 55% government schools in rural Jharkhand did not have useable toilets. After the education departments rigorous efforts in constructing toilets in each of the schools in the past couple of years under Swacchta Mission, the percentage of schools without useable toilets came down to 35.3.

Jharkhand Education Project Council (JEPC) director Mukesh Kumar said that the education department was planning to institutionalise a proper system for maintenance of government school toilets.

At present, the SMCs are doing this job. We are, however, planning necessary changes in the process to ensure usability of toilets in all the schools, Kumar said. The SMCs, he said, appoint ad hoc sweepers to keep toilets clean.

The state government had constructed more than 18,000 toilets in different government schools in 2015, but sufficient measures for maintenance werent taken.

Local villagers and slum dwellers in many parts of the state have been reportedly trespassing into the school premises and soiling the toilets after classes are over, leaving them unusable.

We had requested local villagers not to use the school toilets, but it did not help. We locked the toilets but the locks were broken several times, said Prakash Pandey, teacher at Banaso Middle School in Hazaribagh.

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Jharkhands illegal liquor traders have been quenching the alcohol thirst of boozers in Bihar since the Nitish government banned sale and consumption of liquor on April 5 last year. This came to fore following frequent raids and seizures of liquors by the state, as well as Bihar police in Jharkhand.

Koderma police on Thursday seized over 4,000 cartons of India-made foreign liquor (IMFL) wrapped in straw from a farmland belonging to an influential political leader of the district, under Tilaiya police station around 60 kms from Bihar border and arrested two persons in this connection.

Police are in a fix, as this is one of the biggest seizures in border area of Bihar. On January 15, Koderma police had seized 1409 cartons of IMFL from a house and lodged FIR against 13 people, including Sanjay Yadav, a politician.

On a tip-off, the police team raided the spot where it found liquor cartons hidden with straw wraps around them. This is one of the biggest seizures to my knowledge, Koderma SP Surendra Kumar Jha said, adding, We cannot certify immediately whether the consignment is legal.

The wrappers carry Punjab-Haryana labels. We are sending samples for lab tests, Jha said, adding, In any case, we wont allow any illegal trade of liquor from Koderma.

Ever since Bihar banned sale and consumption of liquor, illegal trade in alcohol has been thriving in many states. Jharkhands Koderma is emerging as one of the major centres to supply liquor clandestinely as the district shares border with Nawada and Bihar.

If liquor traders are to be believed, liquor consignments from UP, Punjab and Haryana are crossed into Bihar using the Koderma gateway.

Tilaiya police station incharge Mahendra Prasad Singh said, Since liquor is banned in

Bihar, illegal liquor manufacturers supply their produce clandestinely to Bihar where they get good price for the product. However, most of the labels found on liquor cartons are fake, he said.

On January 18, police officials from Gaya in Bihar accompanied by excise sleuths had conducted raid on a Kokar based godown in Ranchi and nabbed two officials. The Gaya police, then, said the liquor produced in Jharkhand and meant for Jharkhand and other states were being sent illegally to Gaya, Aurangabad and Patna districts.

Graphics: Major catch

January 26: over 4,000 cartons of liquor seized in Koderma, two nabbed

January 25: Rail police seized huge consignment of liquor from a bogie in Ranchi-Patna Jashatbdi Express in Gaya and arrested peddler

January 18: Bihar cops raided Kokar based godown in Ranchi, found 900 cartons, nabbed two

January 15: Bihar police along with Koderma police seized 1409 cartons in Koderma

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A political party in Jharkhand has launched an ambitious environment protection drive that is laced with an economy impact and cultural protection.

In what could be a lesson for other political parties to follow, All Jharkhand Students Union (AJSU) Party, an ally in the ruling BJPs Raghubar Das government in the state, has passed a stricture to all its district units to ban use of plastic and thermocol plates and glasses during partys meetings and events and replace them with leaf plates and clay glasses.

Party chief Sudesh Mahato, who is on a whirlwind trip to all districts since January 5, holding district level meetings is personally supervising execution of the directive taken by the central committee. At the meeting in Latehar last week, he declined to eat lunch with party colleagues when he found the food being served to some of them on thermocol plates.

Leaf plates and clay glasses are part of our culture. They are not only bio degradable, but also economically viable. Given the global scenario where plastic is playing havoc with environment and our lives, its time political parties show society the way by taking the first steps towards banning them. I am a firm believer of the adage charity begins from home, said AJSU chief Sudesh Mahato, who has twice been deputy chief minister in Arjun Mundas government.

AJSU has done a research through experts and has found out that if even half of the states 3.25 crore population starts using leaf plates and mud glasses, its business will grow to a whopping Rs. 200 crore industry.

Imagine the number of jobs it would create and revenue it would generate giving a total boost to the rural economy, said partys vice-president, Deosharan Bhagat.

The party has initially decided to penalize the district units that disobey the directive on banning plastic, thermocol. Further in future, if they get reports of violation from any district, the local unit president and secretary will have to vacate their chairs.

Plastic above 50 micron is banned in Jharkhand, but across cities including Ranchi the ban is hardly followed. The three major cities, Ranchi, Jamshedpur and Dhanbad together generate around 1200 metric tons of garbage per day and at least 20 % of them are plastic.

Congress leaders were critical about the drive. Clay glasses are no more economically viable. Each glass costs around Rs. 2-3 in the retail market. They are just not fit for large political gatherings, said Pradesh Congress secretary, Aditya Vikram Jaiswal.

Ashwini Kumar Saxena, former chairman of state expert appraisal committee that advises government on environment issues, hailed AJSUs initiative. Plastic and thermocol are causing tumours in the stomach of our cattle. Worse: If they are burnt on low temperature, they produce Dioxin gas that is a cancer agent, he said.
Right wing Hindu nationalist group, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangha (RSS) is all set to step up its drive to check religious conversion of Hindus in Eastern India, with a special focus on Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal and Assam. The outfit had also decided to reconvert those who had converted their religion under their special homecoming program called Ghar Wapsi.

The decisions were taken at the RSS eastern regional meet being held in Jharkhands steel city, Jamshedpur. Around 200 RSS leaders of Bihar and Jharkhand are attending the meet being convened by the outfit chief Mohan Bhagwat. The regional meeting will continue till August 29.

Though media is disallowed from attending the closed door meeting, HT has learned from sources in the outfit that the RSS chief has expressed concern over the speedy pace of conversion of Hindus in a planned manner in Eastern India.

East is a concern for us. We have to step up our activities by adding more and more people in the mission and defeat the forces that are working hard on weakening the nation, the source said quoting the RSS chief.

Sources said the meeting has also decided to form squads to check infiltration of Bangladeshi Muslims in India. Members strongly condemned the political support being given to the infiltrators in few Eastern Indian states.

Earlier on January 26, after unfurling the national flag, the RSS chief asked workers and a select group of students to live up to the spirit of the national flag and do some introspection on whether we are fulfilling our duties towards the nation.

Year after year hoisting the national flag we tend to forget its significance. We forget sacrifices of people who have laid down their supreme sacrifices for the country. We may not have got the opportunity to die for the motherland but we should learn to live for the independence for which our freedom fighters laid down their lives.
The Supreme Court on Friday gave its nod to the CBI to resume its investigation into merit scams of 16 different examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC).

Earlier in July 2014, the apex court had stalled the ongoing CBI probe into the irregularities committed in these examinations.

Merit scams hogged the limelight after relatives of several JPSC members and other higherups cleared the recruitment examinations held between 2003 and 2011.

One Budhdeo Oraon then filed a PIL in the Jharkhand High Court, which on January 14, 2012, directed the CBI to conduct thorough investigations into the alleged deceitful appointments.

Responding to the high courts order, the CBI on July 5, 2012 had registered 10 FIRs to probe into the illegality committed in different recruitment examinations, including 1st and 2nd civil services examinations. Out of the 10 cases, the CBI had submitted chargesheets in five of them.

However, some of the aggrieved successful candidates of the 2nd civil services examination moved the apex court challenging the high courts order instituting a CBI probe into the matter. The Supreme Court had then stalled the CBI probe.

Responding to a review petition, the apex court on Friday modified its earlier order paving way for resumption of the CBI probe into these cases. The SC also restrained the high court from monitoring the progress of the CBI investigation and directed the probe agency to file chargesheets of all cases under investigation with the trial court, said advocate Rajeev Kumar, who represented petitioner Budhdeo Oraon in Jharkhand High Court.

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Telugu actor-politician Pawan Kalyan has finally replied to a series of tweets by director Ram Gopal Varma in which he first praised the actor but later criticised him, reports Indian Express.

At a press conference on granting special status to Andhra Pradesh, the actor-politician lashed out at Varma for interfering in his affairs. He said I will speak about Ram Gopal Varma once and for all and put an end to this. He is a 50-year-old guy with a daughter who got recently married. Why would I listen to a man who says he collects pornographic films at this age? He talks good and ill about me. There is nothing more I want to say about him.

Varma responded to the statement stating that he was disappointed that the actor-politician had made the matters personal. I spoke about PK only as a fan but never spoke how his personal matters like his three marriages. I already wrote about my lifestyle and my thoughts in my book, Na Ishtam. Its unfortunate that he didnt understand that I spoke the truth because I like him and not because I want to criticise him, Ram Gopal Varma posted.

As fans of @PawanKalyan that he dint come to join protest after going on raising hopes are you  Ram Gopal Varma (@RGVzoomin) January 26, 2017

In what can be perceived as an ending of an association, Varma bid goodbye to Pawan Kalyan, hinting that he would not comment on him again. I wish him, his wife, his children, his family, his Jana Sena party and all his fans all the best..Bye, the director tweeted.

I wish him,his wife,his children,his family,his Jana sena party and all his fans all the best..Bye  Ram Gopal Varma (@RGVzoomin) January 27, 2017

In a series of tweets, Varma had earlier appreciated the leadership shown by Pawan Kalyan in championing the cause of according special status to Andhra Pradesh. However, he later posted another set of tweets expressing his disappointment at his absence from the proposed silent protest rally in Vishakhapatnam.

Why is @PawanKalyan still only tweeting from far ..When is he coming to battlefield ? How can a war be won without the king leading it?  Ram Gopal Varma (@RGVzoomin) January 26, 2017

A true warrior instead of with a phone from a safe distance will be with a sword in the middle of the field  Ram Gopal Varma (@RGVzoomin) January 26, 2017

Very disappointed that he stayed away after inspiring and exciting ..if he came it would have been a hit instead of failing so badly  Ram Gopal Varma (@RGVzoomin) January 26, 2017

The actor had called for a protest rally at Ramakrishna beach in Visakhapatnam on January 26 (Republic Day), on the lines of Jallikattu protest by Tamils at Marina beach in Chennai that caught nationwide attention. However, the AP government denied permission for the proposed protest. To foil it, police had imposed Section 144 of CrPc in the coastal city, banning any assembly of five or more people in an area.

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Social support is the main motive for the use of Facebook, while Twitter usage focuses more on gaining new knowledge and seeking advice, suggests a new study which reviewed 10 years of research on social support via social networking sites.

Researchers at Michigan State University and San Diego State University in the US examined the role of social networks as avenues of social support and the dynamic relationship between the two.

They analysed the past 10 years of studies covering this topic with their findings serving as a starting point for identifying the frontiers of social support in social media research and potential directions for moving it forward in a meaningful and efficient way.

Twitter users go for knowledge. (Shutterstock)

Social networking sites (SNS) offer users an alternate avenue by which to gain access to social support, said Brenda K Wiederhold from Interactive Media Institute in the US.

In reviewing why patients use SNS, it appears that social support is the main motive for Facebook use, while Twitter usage focuses more on gaining new knowledge and seeking advice, said Wiederhold.

The study was published in the journal Cyberpsychology, Behaviour and Social Networking.

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As Finding Love Online Booms in China, Are Village Matchmakers Becoming Obsolete?

Couples participate in a group wedding ceremony. (Photo : Getty Images)

Gone are the days when patriarchs in Chinese villages would hire matchmakers to find the perfect match for their sons and daughters.



Thanks to the Internet, everythings just a click away. People can now meet people and find love online, or for those who are not keen very enough to marry, can rent a girlfriend/boyfriend.



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But not everyones happy, especially 83-year-old Zhang Kelan, a matchmaker in Shandong province.



Zhangs career has spanned half a century and has been an instrument to 104 happy couples in her village--with no divorce! But nowadays, business has not been so good.



All were happy marriages. Not a single divorce, she said in a report by China Daily.



Matchmaking is a common way of choosing spouse in ancient China. A matchmaker matches or introduces an unmarried man and woman.



Often hired by families, matchmakers said it could take up to a year to go through the premarital customs.



These include inquiries about names, the first meeting and further meetings, proposal, marriage, and smooth over the complicated customs, such as the dowry.



In a report released by Inquiries Journal, out of more than 8,000 Chinese couples surveyed in 1991 across seven provinces, 77 percent of the couples were married by parental involvement.



Parents would typically advertise their unmarried children by supplying their basic information such as: age, height, job, income, education, Chinese zodiac signs, personality, family values, or even his/her picture.



Advertisements were usually posted around the park, and notice boards.



Some parents would go to the extent of lingering around the vicinity of their advertisement looking for a potential/interested buyer--without the knowledge of their single children.



The survey added that the lack of financial security among parents of unmarried children often lead them to finding suitable marital spouse for them.



But now that young adults have joined the migrant work force, they are somewhat more financially stable and independent.



They can now meet, get married, and settle down on their own without their parents interference, making the village matchmaker service, well, obsolete.


Winters in Europe is known to be too cold, where temperatures drop below zero degrees. However, that is exactly what many tourists, who plan to travel to Europe during this time of the year, looks forward to experience. We take on a tour to London (UK), Paris (France) and Brussels (Belgium), and give you an insight as in why it is the best time to flock to these destinations, and experience its winter charm.

Tower Bridge in central London (AFP)

London calling

Though Christmas and New Year is the best time to travel to London, the place will continue to attract tourists during winters. The city boasts of many popular tourist attractions. London has the famous hop on hop off bus service, which takes you to most of the tourist attractions of the city. Some popular attractions here include Madame Tussauds, Tower of London, Sea Life London Aquarium, St Paul Cathedral, Kensington Palace, The London Eye, The Shard and the Thames River Cruise, Tower Bridge, among others. Considering its winter time, queues to most of these places would be shorter.

Eiffel Tower seen from the Seine River Cruise (Istock)

The city of love

From London, you can catch a train to Paris. The ride can surely turn out to be the best train journey of your life. It will take you more than two hours to reach your destination. On the way, you will cross picturesque countryside, vast uninhabited open spaces, hills, lakes and lush green patches. The train will halt at Pariss Gare du Nord station. If you cant speak French, you will have to resort to sign language to communicate with people.

If you want to ask for help, preferably approach the young local crowd, as majority of them speaks and understands English. Paris has a vast metro train network, mostly underground, which takes you almost everywhere in the city. So, if you disembark at the right station, every major landmark in the city can be reached on foot within a few minutes. Considering cab rides are expensive, metro is the most economical mode of travel in Paris.

Temperatures in Paris during this time hover around 5 degree Celsius.

You might encounter long queues and huge number of tourists at every major attraction in the city. Considering its chilly during this time of the year, spending a lot of time in the open can get difficult for you. If you have heard from people that the city is expensive, well, you have heard the truth. In fact, there isnt much difference in the prices of food sold on the streets and restaurants.

If you are in Paris, the Eiffel Tower is surely going to be on top of your must visit list. Most people visit the tower at night as about 336 light projectors and 20,000 light bulbs makes it look magnificent. The towers observation decks give you a view of the Pariss floodlit bridges, churches and other landmarks. In the night, the Seine River Cruise is a popular attraction. The hour-long cruise starts at Pont Neuf and takes you past the Louvre museum, Place de la Concorde, Pont Alexandre III Bridge, Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral. A running commentary on the cruise gives you information as you sail through the Seine River.

The buildings of the Grand Place of Brussels are illuminated during the winter (Istock)

Relax in Brussels

You can go to Brussels from Paris by bus, which will take you around four hours to reach. Your trip to Brussels would be incomplete without seeing the bronze sculpture of Manneken Pis. Grand Place, Cathedral of St Michael and St Gudula, Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, and Atomium are some of the other attractions in Brussels, which are popular among tourists

Cool tips



1. Do not forget to carry proper winter clothes

2. Google Maps is a must, especially in places where English is not the spoken language

3. Consult your doctor and carry first-aid medicines because you cant buy medicines without a prescription in Europe

4. In winter, the sun sets around 4.30pm in Europe, so plan your day accordingly. The streets are almost deserted once its dark.

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As a prudent economic practice in the aftermath of demonetisation, union finance minister Arun Jaitley should concentrate on slashing indirect taxes, keeping the direct tax structure and slabs intact in his forthcoming budget proposals for the financial year 2017-18, his predecessor P Chidambaram advised on Saturday.

Had I been the union finance minister currently, I would have concentrated on reduction in indirect tax rates like service tax, excise duty and customs duty, among others. At the same time, I would have kept the direct tax structure and slabs untouched for the time being, Chidambaram said while participating in an interactive session at the Kolkata Literary Meet here on Saturday.

The former finance minister said that change in the direct tax structure and slabs would have benefitted only a small number of people in the country. However, slashing of the indirect tax structure would benefit crores of people who have already suffered a lot because of the demonetisation, he added.

Chidambaram also took a swipe at Jaitley saying that had he been the finance minister he would have resigned on November 8, 2016 immediately after the Prime Minister, Nareandra Modi made the late- evening announcement banning the old high-value currency.

The practice is that on crucial issues on banking and currencies it is Reserve Bank of India (RBI), which should make recommendations and the union government should act as per the recommendations of the apex bank. But in case of demonetization what happened was exactly the opposite of the common practice, where the RBI acted as per the recommendations of the union government, Chidambaram said.

He said that through demonetisation the Prime Minister has been able to create a class divide in the Indian society. The Prime Minister hopes to gain political mileage through this creation of class divide. However, with days passing by without any immediate respite being visible, such class divide will slowly fade out, the former finance minister said.

Chidambaram acknowledged that while the cash crisis might have eased to an extent in the major cities and to an extent in poll-bound Uttar Pradesh, most of the northeastern states and rural areas of Odisha, Bihar and even Tamil Nadu are still suffering from cash shortage.
When Madhulika Liddle got a fat volume on Indian forensic procedures from her father, she already had four detective novels under her belt. Her books revolve around the adventures of Muzaffar Jang, a 17th century nobleman in Shahjahans Delhi who doubles as a detective.

Liddles father had been a policeman and the book he gave Liddle, a guide to medical jurisprudence, was what the police used while investigating crimes. Chilling details (how to tell the difference between a hanging and a strangling? What are the different kind of poisons available in India?) aside, Liddle found the book to be pretty grotty and the clues horribly mundane. She preferred Jangs agile mind to forensic work.

The powers of deduction

Deduction is the key, says Liddle who is scheduled to speak about the powers of deduction at this weekends Noir Crime Writers Festival in Delhi. Thats what drew her to historical crime fiction, she says. The (forensic) lab takes the fun out of deduction.

Liddle is among a slew of authors who have invented memorable spooks (and series to boot): Jane De Suzas Gulabi, a village woman who turns up in Mumbai to find a husband and instead turns into a detective; Zac OYeahs shady yet likeable Hari Majestic; the upright retired Inspector Ashwin Chopra from Vaseem Khans Baby Ganesha Detective Agency novels; Ankush Saikias eccentric Arjun Arora; and Tarquin Halls Most Private Investigator Vish Puri.

These books are a sub-genre within a small but growing genre in Indian publishing: crime. Ten years back, Liddle says, most Indian publishers were reluctant to publish anything other than literary fiction. Now, that has changed. The festival, back for its third year, includes two jampacked days of conversations around crime with over 30 speakers, including novelists, journalists, lawyers and filmmakers.

A scene from the 2016 Crime Writers Festival that was held at the Oxford Bookstore in Delhi (Naihad Mohan)

The genre of genres

Publishers appetite for crime writing is growing, according to Mita Kapur, the festivals co-producer. They are all developing a good, hefty crime list, she says, adding that the genre is still young among Indian writers in English but it has a healthy tradition in Hindi and Urdu: writers in both languages have been telling crime stories for 200 years.

But the genre isnt short of diversity. Kapur says the festival brings together writers of true crime, white collar crime, legal and political thrillers as well as pulp novels. Last years edition included discussions about the fictional Bengali detective Byomkesh Bakshi, Urdu crime fiction, Agatha Christie and Hindi pulp author Surendra Mohan Pathak. It was a cracker, says Kapur.

And thats just fiction. The first edition of the festival, in 2015, featured Husain Zaidi, a Mumbai-based investigative journalist who has reported, and then authored books, on the citys mafia, chronicling the infamous life of gangsters such as Abu Salem and Dawood Ibrahim. This time around, Sandeep Unnithan, a journalist who reports on national security, joins crime novelist Uday Satpathy and Norwegian crime writer Thomas Enger to talk about the role of the journalist as crime solver.

Unnithans Black Tornado tells the story of the operation launched by Indias National Security Guard in response to the 26/11 terror attack in Mumbai. He says the book is a crucial, meticulous record of a mammoth operation that few know about, the desperate chaos that preceded it and the startling characters at the center of it all.

Most of the time, the truth is much more bizarre than fiction, says Unnithan whose stories of terror plots, espionage and investigation are far removed from Liddles charming mysteries set in Mughal Delhi. And yet, they are connected.

It is the genre of genres, says Namita Gokhale, writer, publisher and festival director. She believes that if you were to read across the crime writing of a culture, it will likely give you more insight than literary fiction. Given that it encompasses every aspect of life, from art to gender to money to psychology, Gokhale says, the crime writing genre is greater than the sum of its parts.

Audience members at the 2016 Crime Writers Festival that was held at the Oxford Bookstore. (Naihad Mohan)

Escapist or not

How accurately does Indian crime writing capture all of those hues? Indian crime writing is still coming of age, says Gokhale. She says its too early to say if the existing work sufficiently captures the despair induced by crippled courts, shoddy investigations and alarmingly high chances of errors in conviction.

Liddle admits that a lot of crime fiction could be called escapist, preferring to thrill rather than disturb. Especially in the case of classic crime fiction, which focuses on the detective and ends with the arrest. The mundane stuff and the dry stuff is culled out, says Liddle. It is escapist and escapist in a good way.

The festival tries to avoid that trope by inviting people who are familiar what happens on the other side -- from arrest to prosecution to, in some cases, execution. Journalists such as Unnithan are well aware of the alleged violations involved in prosecuting terror cases. So are criminal defence lawyers such as Anup Surendranath who will appear on a panel to discuss the role of the hangman, designated by the state to execute on its behalf.

But not everyone agrees with this definition of escapist. Filmmaker and writer Paromita Vohra is scheduled to speak at the festival about the manner in which crimes, especially crimes against women, are covered in the media. She says its unfair to think of thrills as escapist and some artificial realism approach as being not escapist.

She points to the daily choice made by newspapers to play up certain crimes against women on the front page while burying others deeper in the paper, or not carrying them at all. Whos to say that front page coverage isnt escaping the truth of whats inside?

What: Noir Literature Festival - The Art of Crime Writing

When: January 28-29, 10 am onwards

Where: Oxford Bookstore, Connaught Circus

Nearest metro station: Barakhamba Road

Entry is free. Seating is on the basis of first-come-first serve

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More than four decades after its release, award-winning childrens film Dak Ghar (post office), based on a play by poet Rabindranath Tagore, is travelling across the country to be viewed by children. Elsewhere in a dubbing studio, artistes are gearing to translate Satyen Boses Kaya Palat into different Indian languages for a wider reach. These efforts are part of Information and Broadcasting ministrys attempt to revive the Childrens Film Society of India (CFSI).

The ministry is organising a week-long programme called CFSI Film Bonanza. It will take films, many made by masters, from the storage to screening halls across the country. So far, the festival has travelled to the north eastern states, Gujarat and parts of Uttar Pradesh.

CFSI produces features, short film, animations in many languages, but most of the films remain unheard of as screening opportunities are few and far between. CFSI is also working on co-productions.

Kaya Palat was made by celebrated director Satyen Bose.

There are over 250 films made over the years for children by some noted filmmakers. We have Satyen Bose, best known for his works such as Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi, a classic comedy and Dosti that won him global recognition. We have excellent films by Ismat Chugtai and Shyam Benegal, which we are keen to show, said an official.

While most of these films, made in Hindi, are dubbed in at least one regional language, we are now looking at dubbing the films in more regional languages so that children can enjoy the films in the language they speak, said an official.

The ministry and the local administration have borne the cost incurred on screening the films, but the project to dub the movies will require an additional budget of Rs 30 crore.

Dak Ghar is based on a short story by Rabindranath Tagore.

Ministry officials said the response to the screenings has been encouraging. The screenings are organised by the district magistrates, picking the tabs for expenses such as transportation of the audience to refreshments. Formalities for seeking rights of the films are taken care of by the ministry.

Some of the films date back to the 1970s, and we want the children to see the works of the masters, said the official.

For instance, Zul Vellanis Dak Ghar, has a stellar star cast including names like poet Kaifi Azmi, filmmaker MS Sathyu, actors Sharmila Tagore and Balraj Sahni. The film won the Golden Plaque at a film festival in Tehran in 1966.

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Googles India-born CEO Sundar Pichai on Saturday criticised President Donald Trumps controversial immigration order against people from seven Muslim-majority countries, saying it will create barriers to bringing great talent to the US, as the internet search giant ordered its travelling staff to return to America.

Pichai in an email to staff said the US ban on foreign nationals from seven Muslim-majority countries will hit at least 187 Google employees.

We are upset about the impact of this order and any proposals that could impose restrictions on Googlers and their families, or that could create barriers to bringing great talent to the US, the Wall Street Journal quoted Pichai as saying in the email.

It is painful to see the personal cost of this executive order on our colleagues, he said.

Google has recalled around 100 of its affected staff from overseas, the BBC reported.

Earlier in the day, President Trump ordered extreme vetting of people entering the US from seven Muslim-majority countries and banned the entry of Syrian refugees until further notice, as part of new measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of America.

Read | Trumps immigration ban: Muslims barred from boarding NY-bound flight in Cairo

The countries impacted are Iran, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Libya, Yemen and Somalia.

The controversial move, signed a week after he was sworn- in as the President, fulfils the vow Trump made on the campaign trail to limit Muslim immigration to the US.

We are upset about the impact of this order and any proposals that could impose restrictions on Googlers and their families, or that could create barriers to bringing great talent to the US.

In his message to employees, 44-year-old Pichai, who grew up in India, suggested that at least 187 employees hailed from countries included in the ban.

Our first order of business is to help Googlers who are affected, he said. If you are abroad and need help please reach out to our global security team.

We wouldnt wish this fear and uncertainty on anyone and especially not our fellow Googlers, Pichai wrote. In times of uncertainty, our values remain the best guide.

Immigrants make up much of the workforce in Silicon Valley, including many executive roles, and the tech industry has long advocated for more open immigration laws in the US, saying they need more skilled foreigners to fill technical jobs.

The new restrictions will have a major impact on American technology companies that hire skilled staff from all over the world on special H1-B visas, mostly used by Indian IT firms.

There have already been reports of green card holders, who are allowed to work in the US, being prevented from getting on flights. However, green cards are not specifically mentioned in the executive order, the WSJ said.

Microsoft has also warned its shareholders that curbs on immigration could have a material impact on its business.

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has also criticised Trumps decision to severely limit immigrants and refugees from certain Muslim-majority countries, saying America is a nation of immigrants and should be proud of it.

Like many of you, I am concerned about the impact of the recent executive orders signed by President Trump, Zuckerberg wrote on his Facebook page.
Fresh from talks with US President Donald Trump, British Prime Minister Theresa May will meet Turkish leaders in Ankara on Saturday, hoping to expand ties and seal a new trading relationship before Britain leaves the EU.

On a one-day visit to the Turkish capital, her first since becoming premier, May will hold talks with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Prime Minister Binali Yildirim.

While some EU states have been wary of sending top officials to Turkey following the July 15 failed coup and ensuing crackdown, May will follow several senior British ministers who have visited Ankara in recent weeks.

And symbolically, her visit to Turkey is the last leg of a trip which took her to the White House as the first foreign leader to be hosted by Trump.

Turkey, which has sought to join the European Union since the 1960s, has long seen Britain as one of the most enthusiastic supporters of its troubled bid.

But following Britains June vote to leave the bloc, both sides are now looking to bring a new dynamic to relations, with London seeking to firm up post-Brexit trade deals with non-EU states.

Mays spokeswoman said increased security cooperation, especially on aviation, and a new trade relationship post- Brexit would top the agenda at the talks.

Following the failed coup, Turkeys relations with the EU have become strained, with Brussels sharply criticising the extent of the ensuing crackdown, and Ankara deploring Europes failure to show solidarity.

The spokeswoman emphasised that there were no issues May would steer away from, including human rights and freedom of the press.

The Prime Ministers approach is quite clear - she thinks its important, and in the UKs national interest - to engage with Turkey on a range of issues - from defence and security cooperation to capitalising on trade opportunities, she said.

She added: I dont think there are any issues that the prime minister is afraid to bring up.

Ahead of Mays visit, Britains Trade and Investment Minister Mark Price held a series of meetings with Turkish ministers in Ankara.

Bilateral trade between the two countries amounted to more than USD 16 billion in 2015, Turkish figures show, with Britain the second most important country for exports and 11th in terms of imports.

Three months after the Brexit vote, Foreign Minister Boris Johnson made a colourful visit to Turkey during which he said Britain was seeking a jumbo free trade deal with Ankara.
Optimistic anti-abortion advocates rallied in the US capital on Friday, with the White House throwing its weight behind the cause and vice president Mike Pence hailing it as a historic time for the movement.

Life is winning in America. And today is a celebration of that progress, Pence told the many thousands gathered on the National Mall, noting that Republican lawmakers -- who are overwhelmingly pro-life -- hold majorities in both houses of Congress.

Weve come to a historic moment in the cause of life, and we must meet this moment with respect and compassion for every American.

Read l US anti-abortion activists seek to make gains under Trump

The first vice president to ever address the March for Life, Pence vowed that President Donald Trumps administration will not grow weary, we will not rest until we restore a culture of life in America for ourselves and our posterity.

Trump tweeted that the march is so important. To all of you marching -- you have my full support!

The 44th annual anti-abortion march, billed as the worlds largest pro-life rally, drew participants from all corners of the country exactly one week after Trumps inauguration.

The unborn babies dont have a voice and someone has to stand up for whats right, said Katelyn Goodwin, 17, from Birmingham, Alabama who arrived in Washington with her church youth group after a 15-hour bus ride.

If just one mother contemplating abortion will change her mind because of this march, then weve done something good, Goodwin said, waving a life-sized cardboard cutout of the pope.

The crowd -- which included numerous school groups -- toted signs that said I am the pro-life generation, Defund Planned Parenthood and Babies can feel joy in the womb.

Read l Trump appears firm on agenda, says Americans have nothing to fear

Trump has already cheered abortion foes just days into his presidency. On Monday, he signed a decree barring US federal funding for foreign NGOs that support abortion services.

Next Thursday, he will announce his choice to fill an empty seat on the Supreme Court, with his nominee widely expected to staunchly oppose abortion rights.

Trump, a businessman new to politics, had previously been pro-choice but has veered right on the issue over the years, even saying at one point during the campaign that women who have illegal abortions should be punished. He later walked back that statement.

Anti-abortion and pro-choice demonstrators next each other outside the Supreme Court during the anti-abortion March for Life rally in Washington. (NYT)

His stance on abortion will be bolstered by Pence, a deeply conservative former governor of Indiana who promotes traditional family values and is anti-abortion.

Further showing the White Houses support for the movement, Trumps influential senior aide Kellyanne Conway also addressed the rally.

Allow me to make it very clear -- we hear you. We see you. We respect you. And we look forward to working with you, she said.

Participants said they were not particularly political but rather driven by their strong beliefs.

I think people that normally just sat back and said, Yeah, Im pro-life are beginning to act on it a little more and be more vocal, said Annette Vaske, a Catholic high school teacher from Iowa.

They dont feel so threatened and intimidated. I think we just realized that theres more of us than we really think there are.

The march set off from the Washington Monument and ended with participants massing in front of the Supreme Court.

The march was happening days after the 44th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the landmark Supreme Court decision that legalised abortion in 1973.

If Trump appoints a second conservative justice to the high court during his tenure, the overturning of Roe v. Wade could become reality -- even though seven of 10 Americans oppose scrapping the decision that established the right to an abortion in the first three months of pregnancy, a study by the Pew Research Center found this month.

Read l Anti-abortion Poland offers payments for disabled newborns

Abortion opponents are also taking action at the local level, with US states enacting 338 restrictions on abortion between 2010 and 2016, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a research organization that supports abortion rights.

This looming federal onslaught against a broad spectrum of reproductive health services, the institute said, threatens a massive rollback of womens health, rights and autonomy.

The March for Life came nearly a week after the Womens March in Washington, which brought hundreds of thousands of demonstrators to the US capital to oppose Trumps attacks on a progressive agenda, including access to abortion services.

Washington authorities do not provide crowd figures for these events.

However, 92 buses obtained permits for the main parking site of RFK Stadium for Friday, compared to 450 buses that requested permits for Trumps inauguration and 1,200 for the Womens March, the Washington Post reported.
British Prime Minister Theresa May on Saturday refused to condemn an order by US President Donald Trump suspending refugee arrivals, saying Washington was responsible for its own refugee policy.

The United States is responsible for the United States policy on refugees. The United Kingdom is responsible for the United Kingdoms policy on refugees, May said at a news conference in Ankara, after being repeatedly pressed to give her opinion on Trumps executive order.

And our policy on refugees is to have a number of voluntary schemes to bring Syrian refugees into the country, particularly those who are most vulnerable but also to provide significant financial contributions to support refugees in countries surrounding Syria, she added.

On the same day, May visited Washington for her first White House meeting with Trump to bolster the London-Washington relationship, the new President ordered a suspension of refugee arrivals.

He also imposed tough controls on travellers from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

At a joint news conference with Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim, May had initially declined to be drawn into directly giving any comment on Trumps order.

Instead she praised Turkey for its hospitality in hosting some three million refugees from Syria and also Iraq.

Yildirim however offered implicit condemnation of Trumps move, saying throwing up walls will not solve the worlds refugee problems.

We cannot solve this refugee problem by putting up walls, Yildirim said.

Trumps executive order specifically says no visas will be issued for 90 days to migrants or visitors from the seven Muslim-majority countries.

Yildirim insisted that with tens of millions of refugees worldwide, it was a problem which could not be ignored but had to be solved with greater cooperation between countries.

We opened our doors, and if they come again, we would take them again, he said, adding: Regional problems cannot be solved by sweeping them under the carpet.

The Turkish authorities say they are hosting some 2.7 million Syrian refugees who fled the country during the over six-year conflict and another 300,000 Iraqi refugees.

Yildirim added it would not be possible to make assessments on hearsay with regard to Trumps order.
New US Ambassador Nikki Haley arrived at the United Nations on Friday announcing a new way the US does business: The Trump administrations goal is to show US strength, speak out, and defend its allies  and as for countries opposing America, Were taking names.

The former South Carolina governor said the United States will respond accordingly to opponents.

Haley spoke to the news media immediately after she walked into UN headquarters for the first time, saying its a thrill to be here and declaring that at the U.S. Mission to the United Nations, You are gonna see a change in the way we do business. Its no longer about working harder, its about working smarter.

In the halls of UN headquarters, the Trump administrations approach to the 193-member world organisation has been a subject of non-stop diplomatic discussion, speculation and concern.

The United States is a permanent veto-wielding member of the UN Security Council, the UNs most powerful body, and pays 22% of its regular budget and over 28% of the costs of its far-flung peacekeeping operations.

Haley said President Donald Trump wants her to put fresh eyes on the United Nations.

Everything thats working were going to make it better, she said. Everything thats not working were going to try to fix, and anything that seems to be obsolete and not necessary were going to do away with.

In blunt language, with none of the diplomatic nuances characteristic of discussions here, Haley outlined the new US approach to the United Nations.

Our goal with the administration is to show value at the UN, and the way that well show value is to show our strength, show our voice, and have the backs of our allies and make sure that our allies have our back as well, Haley said.

For those that dont have our back were taking names, she said. We will make a point to respond to that accordingly. But this is a time of strength. This is a time of action. This is a time of getting things done.

Haley then got on an elevator and went to the 38th floor where she presented her credentials to Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who became UN chief on January 1. They then went into his office for a private discussion.

UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said Guterres was pleased to start discussions with the Trump administration, stressing that the United States is a critical partner to the United Nations. He refused to give any details on the subjects that were raised.
An image of a UFO captured by International Space Station cameras shows a bright object above the earth's horizon. (Photo : YouTube / Bright Insight)

A British UFO hunter claims that he spotted a UFO rising above the Earth's surface during the International Space Station (ISS) live feed. He also believes that NASA cut the live feed just at about the same time when the mysterious object appeared.



John Craddick said he has been a loyal viewer of the ISS live feed for a long time and has never seen anything like that before. The Wolver-Hampton resident is confident that the UFO he saw was undisputable proof of alien life and supports his argument by the fact that nothing human ever flies that high.



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"I've been watching it [the live feed] for years but never seen any UFOs on it before," Mirror quoted Craddick as saying. He said he was showing a friend how the whole thing works at around 11.30 p.m. when the feed suddenly discontinued and 35 seconds after it came back, the mysterious object appeared. It first seemed small and then got bigger, lasting for about 25 seconds, he said.



On July 9, 2015, UFO hunters and conspiracy theorists raised concerns over a similar incident where NASA was accused of cutting the ISS live feed moments after a UFO was spotted above the Earth's atmosphere. Notorious UFO hunter Streetcap1 uploaded a video on the same day, claiming it was alien-like.



Craddick remained open-minded by saying that it could have been a meteor or the like. NASA's act of turning of the camera was what turned out sinister.



The latest case is just another example of a string of other several clips showing the space agency stopping the ISS live feed when a UFO comes into sight. On Jan 16, an astronaut was captured attempting to block the station's video at about the same time when an object flew by, according to Daily Star.



NASA is being accused of hiding the existence of UFOs and alien life. Conspiracy theorists claim that the footage is enough proof and are entirely convinced by it. Here is the footage:






Iran will ban Americans from entering the country in response to President Donald Trumps insulting order restricting arrivals from Iran and six other Muslim states, the foreign ministry said Saturday.

The Islamic Republic of Iran... has decided to respond in kind after the insulting decision of the United States concerning Iranian nationals, the ministry said in a statement carried by state television.

Trump on Friday signed a sweeping executive order to suspend refugee arrivals and impose tough controls on travellers from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

Irans foreign ministry called the decision illegal, illogical and contrary to international rules.

It said its own ban on US nationals would continue until the American measure was lifted.

It said it had ordered Iranian diplomatic missions to help Iranians who had been prevented from returning to their homes and places of work and study in the United States.

Travel agents in Tehran said that foreign airlines had begun barring Iranians from US-bound flights.
First lady Melania Trump can move ahead with a libel lawsuit she filed against a blogger who reported rumours that she worked as a high-end escort, a judge ruled Friday.

The blogger, Webster Tarpley of Gaithersburg, sought to have the lawsuit dismissed. His lawyer argued Friday in Montgomery County Circuit Court that Tarpley accurately reported in an August blog post the fact that there were rumours about whether Trumps modelling career included work as an escort.

There is no dispute that there were, in fact, rumours, said his lawyer, Danielle Giroux. He did not say that Melania Trump was a high-class escort. What he said was there are rumours about that.

Trumps lawyer said the rumour is false and that reporters cant make defamatory statements under the guise of reporting rumours.

The job of a reporter is to vet it before you publish it, the lawyer, Charles Harder said.

He also disputed the notion that Tarpleys article merely reported the fact that rumours were out there. He cited a passage in the article stating, It is also widely known that Melania was not a working model but rather a high end escort.

Judge Sharon Burrell agreed with Harder: There can be no more defamatory statement than to call a woman a prostitute, she said in denying the motion to dismiss.

Burrell deferred ruling on a separate motion to dismiss filed by Mail Media Inc., which is described in the lawsuit as the corporation that publishes the Daily Mails website. The argument over the Daily Mails motion centered on whether the lawsuit against them should have been filed in Maryland, and whether Trump is suing the correct corporate entity associated with the Daily Mail.

Trump also has filed a lawsuit against the paper in London.

She filed the lawsuit in Rockville in September, after both Tarpley and the Daily Mail issued retractions. She did not attend Fridays hearing, though she did show up for an earlier pretrial hearing.
The first of five Pakistani social media activists believed to have been picked up by intelligence agencies returned home on Friday night amidst persisting fears about the fate of the other four.

Police said university lecturer and activist Salman Haider, who was reported missing from Islamabad on January 6, was in good shape but his family refused to comment.

Haider, who raised issues such rights violations in Balochistan and violence by militants, was abducted while on his way home on the outskirts of Islamabad. It is believed pressure from outside Pakistan helped secure his release.

After Haider went missing, a report was registered at Lohi Bher police station by his wife. Police found the academic's car at Koral Chowk but were unable to trace him. On Saturday, police said Haider was with his family in Islamabad but did not give details.

The disappearances prompted a series of protests by rights groups across Pakistan, and lawmakers called on the government to locate the men. Activists said they should be produced in court to face formal charges if they had been detained by intelligence or security agencies.

Four other activists - Ahmed Raza Naseer, Samar Abbas, Asim Saeed, and Ahmed Waqas Goraya - were either abducted or reported missing since early this month. All were critical of the states policies and advocated for civil rights.

Saeed and Goraya were known for managing Mochi, a well-known anti-military Facebook page. The abductions startled a number of social media users and people running web pages critical of the military, and many deactivated their accounts.

Goraya and Saeed disappeared from Lahore on January 4, Naseer went missing from Sheikhupura in Punjab province on January 7 while Naseer was abducted from his electronics shop in his village just outside the town of Nankana Sahib.

Interior minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan had directed police and other organisations to expedite efforts for Haiders recovery and to use all available resources.

Investigations revealed a Toyota vehicle, which is thought to have been following Haider before he went missing, had a fake number plate, police officials said. Local media reports suggested this proved the intelligence agencies were involved.

Last week, lawmakers of the opposition Pakistan Peoples Party submitted a calling attention notice in the National Assembly Secretariat regarding the disappearance of Haider. It is highly concerning that activists and intellectuals from other parts of the country have also gone missing in the last one week. This is a serious matter and needs an immediate response from the government, the notice said.

Haider also served on the board of editors for Tanqeed, a bilingual online magazine that is one of the few alternate media sources in Pakistan which highlights state and policy failures related to security and citizens rights. The magazine has regularly criticised military operations and the situation in Balochistan and Pakistans lawless northwestern tribal areas.
Pakistan has expressed hope that it could soon host the Saarc summit which was postponed after India boycotted it, with Prime Ministers advisor on foreign policy Sartaj Aziz alleging that New Delhi impeded the groupings process.

Aziz said this during a meeting with outgoing South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc) secretary general Arjun Bahadur Thapa who was on a visit to Pakistan on Friday.

Pakistan was looking forward to welcoming Saarc leaders for the 19th Summit in November but it was postponed when India impeded the Saarc process and violated the spirit of the Saarc Charter, foreign office (FO) said in a statement.

Pakistan remains committed to hosting the 19th Saarc Summit at Islamabad at the earliest so that the objectives of regional cooperation under the Saarc umbrella can be pursued more vigorously, FO quoted Aziz saying in the meeting.

He also reaffirmed Pakistans commitment to regional cooperation under the umbrella of Saarc for promoting welfare of the people of South Asia, improving their quality of life, economic progress, social uplift and cultural cooperation.

Aziz said that due to several impediments and challenges, Saarc has been unable to fulfill the vision that was laid out for it by its founding members.

Aziz said he believed that the Saarc Secretariat could play an important role as catalyst to bring all the member states together and ensure timely and effective implementation of programme and activities that would benefit the region.

Thapa emphasised the need to overcome the difficulties the organisation faced and expressed hope that the 19th Saarc Summit would be held in Islamabad as soon as possible.

Thapa, who paid a farewell call on Aziz, also held a meeting with foreign secretary Aizaz Ahmed Chaudhry, who appreciated Thapas contributions to the Saarc process and reiterated Pakistans commitment to the Saarc objectives.

Chaudhry emphasised that internal and bilateral problems of member states must not be allowed to affect the organisation and that 19th Saarc Summit should be held as soon as possible to put the whole Saarc process back on track.

On behalf of the ministry of foreign affairs, Syed Zulfiqar Gardezi, additional decretary (Asia Pacific) hosted a lunch for the decretary general, which was attended by Amjad Hussian Sial, secretary general-elect of the Saarc.

Thapa who hails from Nepal, is the 12th secretary general of Saarc. He will complete his tenure on February 28 after which Amjad Hussain Sial, former special secretary, ministry of foreign affairs of Pakistan is to take charge as the next secretary general of Saarc.
After a night of fireworks frenzy to usher in the Lunar New Year, Beijing residents woke up to choking smog on Saturday, with the air quality index (AQI) crossing the hazardous limit on the first day of the new year.

The Beijing government had launched a campaign that asked residents to refrain from setting off fireworks and imposed restrictions on the sale of crackers.

State media reported sales of fireworks this year were down by nearly 5% compared to last year.

A message circulated by the Beijing municipal government restricted the time for setting off fireworks, saying residents could burst crackers the whole day on Friday and Saturday and from 7 am to midnight from Sunday to February 11.

Please set off fewer or no fireworks in an effort to reduce air pollution. And if there is a red or orange alert on air pollution, fireworks will be banned, the message said.

Clearly, the steps were not enough.

Saturday was a clear day in Beijing but by late night, with the bursting of firecrackers intensifying, air quality rapidly declined and a sharp increase in pollution was recorded.

Visitors at the temple fair at Ditan Park (the Temple of Earth) wear face masks to protect themselves against the pollution. (Reuters)

According to the state-run China News Service (CNS), the Beijing Municipal Environmental Protection Bureau said harmful particulate matter in the air had hit the second highest level in five years by Saturday morning.

Due to fireworks and the lack of wind, the city's density of PM2.5, airborne particles smaller than 2.5 microns in diameter, hit a peak of 647 micrograms per cubic meter at 2 am Saturday, down 7.6% from the same time of the last lunar new year, state-run Global Times newspaper reported, quoting the Beijing Municipal Environmental Monitoring Center.

That was well beyond the upper limit of 500 on Chinas air quality index and double the threshold considered hazardous, a Reuters report said.

A recent poll on 1,000 residents in the capital showed 83% of interviewees said they would not set off fireworks during Spring Festival. This was 6.4 percentage points higher than last year, the Global Times reported.

According to CNS, the capital approved just 511 stores for selling firecrackers for the holiday period, down from 719 last year, with none of them within the Third Ring Road. In Shanghai, which has a population of 24 million, just seven outlets have been given licenses - all of them in suburban districts - compared with 77 last year, the report said.
A former Russian spy suspected of helping create a dossier of salacious claims linking the country to US President Donald Trump may have been murdered by the Kremlin, media reports said.

Oleg Erovinkin, a former general in the KGB and later its successor, the FSB, is rumoured to have helped former British intelligence official Christopher Steele create the explosive - and unsubstantiated - report that alleged Moscow holds deeply compromising information on Trump.

It was published by some American media outlets in early January, provoking a firestorm in the US.

The Telegraph reported Erovinkin was found dead in the back seat of his car in mysterious circumstances on December 26. Russias state-run RIA Novosti news agency reported Erovinkins body was found in a black Lexus and a large-scale investigation has been commenced.

Read | Those behind Trump dossier are worse than prostitutes, says Putin

Authorities said Erovinkin had problems with his heart, but there has been speculation the death was linked to Steeles dossier. Some Russian media outlets suggested the death was the result of foul play.

Erovinkin was close to former deputy prime minister Igor Sechin, who was mentioned several times in Steeles report. He is said to have been an important link between Sechin and Russian President Vladimir Putin and the source behind key information in the dossier about the Kremlin.

Sechin heads Russias state-run Rosneft oil company and Erovinkin was his chief of staff. Erovinkin was appointed to the post by Putin in 2008.

The Telegraph report suggested Erovinkin may have been killed by the Kremlin.

Steeles report alleged Russia had gathered compromising information on Trump, including videos involving prostitutes at a luxury Moscow hotel during a 2013 visit, supposedly as a potential means for blackmail. Putin and Trump rubbished these claims.

Steele has been in hiding since he was unmasked as the author of the Trump dossier.

Read | The name is Steele: Ex-British spy whose reports put Trump in trouble
A Chinese military official has said that war with the US has become a practical reality, signalling Beijings preparedness for a possible military conflict with Washington.

In a commentary on the official website of Peoples Liberation Army, the official at the national defence mobilisation department in the Central Military Commission has said that US rebalancing its strategy in Asia, military deployments in the East and South China Seas and the instillation of a missile defence system in South Korea were hotspots getting closer to ignition.

A war within the presidents term or war breaking out tonight are not just slogans, they are becoming a practical reality, South China Morning Post quoted the article.

Read | Why a US-China war cannot be ruled out under Donald Trumps leadership

The official Peoples Daily said in another commentary on Sunday that Chinas military would conduct exercises on the high seas regardless of foreign provocations.

Chinas sole aircraft carrier Liaoning passed through the narrow Taiwan Strait last month.

Tensions between the two countries have been on the rise after Donald Trump won the US presidential election. The Republican President has infuriated China by challenging it on the issues of Taiwan and South China Sea.

The real estate mogul also contested One China Policy, which considers Taiwan as part of the mainland. No US government has raised such questions in the last four decades.

Read | What the next India-China war might look like

Trump has openly challenged Beijings sovereignty over the energy-rich South China Sea while his predecessor Barack Obama maintained neutrality over the dispute. Obama had, however, sent US warships to the contested waters, citing the freedom of navigation.

The commentary referred to remarks by the Trumps nominee for US secretary of state, Rex Tillerson, that the US should stop Chinas access to artificial islands it has built in disputed areas of the South China Sea.

White House spokesperson Sean Spicer told a press conference the US would prevent China from taking over territory in international waters in the South China Sea.
President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Friday blocking entry into the US of people from seven Muslim-majority nations for 90 days and suspending all refugee admissions, from all countries, for 120 days.

The order will also usher, when authorities are ready, new vetting measures for visitors, Trump said, intended to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States as he had promised while campaigning for the White House.

The president also signed an executive action, different from an order that is enforceable by law, a great rebuilding of the armed services by developing a plan for new planes, new ships, new resources and new tools for our men and women in uniform.

Trump signed the two orders during a ceremony at his first trip to Pentagon, headquarters of US military, to swear in the new defense secretary, retired Marine general James Mattis and offered remarks as explanation for the two actions.

We dont want them here, Trump said about the order introducing new vetting measures and rules for admission. We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas.

The countries effected by what is being called a Muslim Ban are Iran, Iraq, Sudan, Syria, Yemen, Somalia and Libya, all Muslim-majority countries. The block will be in force for 90 days, and not 30 days as a leaked draft of the order had said.

The order halts the admission of refugees from Syria for an indefinite period, and for 120 days for all other refugees. And when the program resumes, it will allow only 50,000 refugees in 2017, down by more than half from 110,000 in 2016.

The order called Protecting the Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States, was aligned with Trumps election promise of restricting entry into the United States of people with suspect motives, those intended to cause harm and damage.

Trump started with an extreme position on the issue, calling for a temporary ban on Muslims entering the country in the aftermath of the San Bernardino terrorists attack in December 2015, that reminded a lot of Americans of 9/11.

He toned it down over a period of time to extreme vetting for visitors and immigrants from areas of the world impacted by terrorism, mostly, it was extrapolated, Muslim-majority countries, some of whom figured in the Friday blacklist.

But it did not include Afghanistan, Pakistan and Turkey, countries hit the hardest by terrorist attacks in recent times. But the order said clearly that more countries could be added to that list as deemed necessary by relevant government agencies.

In addition, it specifically bars Syrian refugees from the United States indefinitely, or until the president himself decides that they no longer pose a threat.

Read | Trump says restricted entry for Muslims needed as world is a total mess

Critics were harsh as expected.

Joe Crowley, chairman of the House Democrats, said in a statement it was unconscionable that President Trump would close the door to the desperate children, families, and elderly who have been forced to flee their homes and countries because of unspeakable acts of violence and war.

Extreme vetting

During the suspensions of the refugee and visa programs, new rules will be devised for what Trump as called the extreme vetting of applicants backgrounds.

Some exceptions will be made for members of religious minorities, which  in the countries targeted by the decree  would imply favourable treatment for Christians.

Separately, Trump said that Syrian Christians will be given priority when it comes to applying for refugee status, a policy that would likely be challenged on similar grounds.

Civil liberties groups and many counterterror experts condemned the measures, declaring it inhumane to lump the victims of conflict in with the extremists who threaten them.

Extreme vetting is just a euphemism for discriminating against Muslims, said Anthony Romero, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union.

Romero argued that, by choosing countries with Muslim majorities for tougher treatment, Trumps order breaches the US Constitutions ban on religious discrimination.

Read | Indian-Americans say Trumps immigration policy irresponsible and cruel

Ahmed Rehab, director of the Chicago chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, said his group would mount legal challenges to fight the order tooth and nail.

It is targeting people based on their faith and national origin, and not on their character or their criminality, he told AFP.

Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani activist and Nobel peace laureate who was shot in the head by the Taliban in 2012, said she was heartbroken.

She urged Trump not to abandon the worlds most defenseless children and families.

But the measure will be popular with Trumps nationalist base, and stops short of a threat made during last years campaign to halt all Muslim travel to the United States.

Trumps supporters defend the measures as necessary to prevent supporters of al Qaeda or the Islamic State group from infiltrating the US homeland disguised as refugees.

And the state department, which with the department of homeland security will have to implement the measures, said it was ready to put them into immediate effect.

We will announce any changes affecting travellers to the United States as soon as that information is available, spokesman Mark Toner said.

We take seriously our responsibility to safeguard the American public while remaining committed to assisting the worlds most vulnerable people.

Wonderful thing

Trump signed the order  which will cut the number of refugees the United States plans to resettle this fiscal year from 110,000 to 50,000  in a ceremony at the Pentagon.

Moments earlier, he had signed an order to rebuild the US military and had watched vice-president Mike Pence swear in respected former Marine general James Mattis as his new secretary of defense.

Trump showered Mattis with praise and had earlier admitted he would allow the generals opposition to the use of torture to override his own enthusiasm for harsh measures.

In what was a busy day from Trump, one week after his inauguration, he also met with Britains Prime Minister Theresa May, the first foreign leader to visit his White House.

Read | At White House, Britain PM Theresa May says Trump backs Nato

He hailed the most special relationship between the twin Atlantic powers and praised Britains decision to leave the European Union as a wonderful thing.

When it irons out, youre going to have your own identity, and you are going to have the people that you want in your country, Trump said, in a nod to his own immigration stance.

Youre going to be able to make free trade deals without having somebody watching you and what you are doing.

May conveyed an invitation from Queen Elizabeth II for Trump to come to Britain for a state visit this year, and thanked him for his 100% support of NATO.

Over the weekend, Trump is due to make calls to Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Germanys Chancellor Angela Merkel, Russias President Vladimir Putin, Frances President Francois Hollande and Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.

He is keen to develop friendly ties with Moscow, but played down reports that he might quickly end US economic sanctions imposed on Russia for its intervention in Ukraine.

(With inputs from AFP)
Five Iraqi passengers and one Yemeni were barred from boarding an EgyptAir flight from Cairo to New York on Saturday after President Donald Trump halted the entry of citizens from seven Muslim-majority countries, sources at Cairo airport said.

The passengers, arriving in transit to Cairo airport, were stopped and re-directed to flights headed for their home countries despite holding valid visas, the sources said.

Trump on Friday put a four-month hold on allowing refugees into the United States and temporarily barred travellers from Syria and six other Muslim-majority countries, saying the moves would help protect Americans from terrorist attacks.

He said his most sweeping use of his presidential powers since taking office a week ago, barring travellers from the seven nations for at least 90 days, would give his administration time to develop more stringent screening procedures for refugees, immigrants and visitors.

Im establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America. Dont want them here, Trump said earlier on Friday at the Pentagon.

We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people, he said.

The bans, though temporary, took effect immediately, causing havoc and confusion for would-be travellers with passports from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

Besides Cairo it was not immediately clear whether other airports of countries listed by Trump had swiftly implemented the ban. Arab officials of the listed countries would not comment on the matter.

Today is not the time to erect walls between nations. They have forgotten that the Berlin wall fell years ago.

- Iran President Hassan Rouhani

The order seeks to prioritize refugees fleeing religious persecution, a move Trump separately said was aimed at helping Christians in Syria. That led some legal experts to question whether the order was constitutional.

One group said it would announce a court challenge on Monday. The Council on American-Islamic Relations said the order targets Muslims because of their faith, contravening the US Constitutional right to freedom of religion.

President Trump has cloaked what is a discriminatory ban against nationals of Muslim countries under the banner of national security, said Greg Chen of the American Immigration Lawyers Association.

Trump has long pledged to take this kind of action, making it a prominent feature of his campaign for the November 8 election. But people who work with Muslim immigrants and refugees were scrambling to determine the scope of the order.

Even legal permanent residents -- people with green cards allowing them to live and work in the United States - were being advised to consult immigration lawyers before travelling outside the country, or trying to return, according to Muslim advocates, a civil rights group in Washington.

Read | Jihadists say Donald Trumps victory a rallying call for new recruits

On Friday evening, Abed Ayoub of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee said he had fielded about 100 queries from people anxious about the order, which he said he believed could affect travelling green card holders, students, people coming to the United States for medical care and others.

Its chaos, Ayoub said.

Syrian refugees

During his campaign, Trump tapped into American fears about Islamic State militants and the flood of migrants into Europe from Syrias civil war, saying refugees could be a Trojan horse that allowed attackers to enter the United States.

Muslim women shout slogans during a rally against President Donald Trump's order cracking down on immigrants living in the US, at Washington Square Park in New York. (AP Photo)

In December 2015, he called for a ban on all Muslims entering the United States, drawing fire for suggesting a religious test for immigrants that critics said would violate the US Constitution.

His idea later evolved into a proposal for extreme vetting.

Trumps order also suspends the Syrian refugee program until further notice, and will eventually give priority to minority religious groups fleeing persecution.

Trump said in an interview with the Christian Broadcasting Network that the exception would help Syrian Christians fleeing the civil war there.

Legal experts were divided on whether this order would be constitutional.

If they are thinking about an exception for Christians, in almost any other legal context discriminating in favour of one religion and against another religion could violate the constitution, said Stephen Legomsky, a former chief counsel at US Citizenship and Immigration Services in the Obama administration.

Read | Being Muslim in America in the era of Trump: A communitys view before voting

But Peter Spiro, a professor at Temple University Beasley School of Law, said Trumps action would likely be constitutional because the president and Congress are allowed considerable deference when it comes to asylum decisions.

Its a completely plausible prioritisation, to the extent this group is actually being persecuted, Spiro said.

The order may also affect special refugee programs for Iraqis who worked for the US government as translators after the 2003 invasion of Iraq.

It is already affecting refugees and their families, said Jen Smyers of the Church World Service, a Protestant faith-based group that works with migrants. Smyers said she spoke to an Iraqi mother whose twin daughters remain in Iraq due to processing delays. Those two 18-year-old daughters wont be able to join their mother in the US, she said.

Political fire

Democrats on Friday were quick to condemn Trumps order as un-American, saying it would tarnish the reputation of the United States as a land that welcomes immigrants.

Todays executive order from President Trump is more about extreme xenophobia than extreme vetting, said Democratic senator Edward Markey in a statement.

Some Republicans praised the move. Representative Bob Goodlatte, chairman of the House of Representatives Judiciary Committee, said Islamic State has threatened to use the US immigration system, making it important to do more screening.

I am pleased that President Trump is using the tools granted to him by Congress and the power granted by the Constitution to help keep America safe and ensure we know who is entering the United States, Goodlatte said in a statement.

Without naming Trump, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday it was no time to build walls between nations and criticised steps towards cancelling world trade agreements.

Trump on Wednesday ordered the construction of a US-Mexican border wall, a major promise during his election campaign, as part of a package of measures to curb illegal immigration.

Today is not the time to erect walls between nations. They have forgotten that the Berlin wall fell years ago, Rouhani said in a speech carried live on Iranian state television.

He made no direct reference to Trumps order regarding refugees and travellers from the seven mainly Muslim states.

Rouhani, a pragmatist elected in 2013, thawed Irans relations with world powers after years of confrontation and engineered its 2015 deal with them under which it curbed its nuclear program in exchange for relief from sanctions.

Rouhani said earlier this month that Trump could not unilaterally cancel the nuclear deal and that talk of renegotiating it was meaningless.

France and Germany voiced disquiet on Saturday over Trumps new restrictions on immigration.

Welcoming refugees who flee war and oppression is part of our duty, French foreign minister Jean-Marc Ayrault said at a joint news conference with German counterpart Sigmar Gabriel.

The United States is a country where Christian traditions have an important meaning. Loving your neighbor is a major Christian value, and that includes helping people, said Gabriel. I think that is what unites us in the West, and I think that is what we want to make clear to the Americans.

Read | Man attacks Muslim woman, tells her President Trump will get rid of all of you
New restrictions on immigrants and refugees will mean legal permanent residents, also known as green cards holders, from Syria and six other Muslim-majority countries will have to be cleared into the United States on a case-by-case basis, a senior US administration official said on Saturday.

In a briefing with reporters, officials defended the scope and execution of the new executive order signed by President Donald Trump on Friday, a move that has caused chaos and alarm at airports.

Asked about lawsuits filed against the order, the officials declined specific comment, but said foreigners do not have a right to enter into the united States, and dismissed as ludicrous the notion that the move amounted to a Muslim ban.

An official said Afghanistan, Malaysia, Pakistan, Oman Tunisia and Turkey were Muslim-majority countries not included in the order.
Ellen Pompeo accepts Favorite Network TV Drama for 'Grey's Anatomy' onstage during the People's Choice Awards 2016 at Microsoft Theater on January 6, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo : Getty Images/Kevin Winter)

One of the most anticipated series of ABC Network, Grey's Anatomy Season 13 is finally returning to TV on Thursday, Jan. 26. Though the fans got little disappointed when the midseason premiere delayed for a week due to pre-inauguration 20/20 special; America's First Family: The Trumps Go to Washington. However, everything is on track now, and finally, the viewers would be able to know if Dr. Alex Karev will be going to jail or not.



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Meredith Grey, the protagonist of the show, is worried about losing another "my person," as he had already lost Cristina, Derrick, Lexi, George on the show and he is the only person left for Meredith.



Looking back at the end of the last season, Alex when walked back in his and Jo's apartment, he thought, Deluca was attacking Jo, which was not the case. He was, in fact, helping her getting on the bed because she was drunk and Alex misread the whole situation and beat up Deluca so badly that he almost lost his vision as well as fractured his nose and is facing felony charges.



Though there are a lot of questions many fans may have about Alex's situation, however, they might have to wait another week to learn if he ends up in jail or not. The midseason premiere would primarily focus on the three doctors Jo, Bailey and Arizona and their visit to the prison floor of Tri-County Hospital to treat a 16-year-old inmate whose unborn daughter had an acardiac twin.



The midseason episode is rough, gripping and exciting, as expected out of the show according to TV Line.



The Grey Sloan Memorial has always been swirling with different stories, and there is no dearth of minor storylines in this season as well. But the largest drama of this season would be if Alex Karev would be taking a plea on the violent assault caused to Deluca. More than that, how other characters will take care of Meredith in Alex's absence.



We probably do not know yet. One thing for sure is Meredith will do everything in her power to keep Alex out of jail, Variety reported.



To know more, keep watching Grey's Anatomy Season 13 on ABC.



Check out the promo of the episode in the video below.






US President Donald Trumps executive order barring all refugees and citizens of seven Muslim-majority countries from entering the United States took effect on Friday leading to detentions and entry-denials at airports in the country and around the world.

The order drew criticism globally from leaders, activists, aid organisations and even private companies such as Facebook and Google, whose chief Sundar Pichai described its effects as painful.

The constitutionality of the order has already been challenged by lawyers representing two Iraqi refugees detained at the JFK airport in New York. More lawsuits are expected over the next few days from civil rights and Muslims organisations.

Trumps order, signed at a ceremony at the Pentagon to swear in James Mattis as the new defence secretary, prevents people from Iraq, Iran, Syria, Yemen, Sudan, Somalia and Libya, all Muslim nations, from entering the US for the next 90 days.

The order, which has been called a Muslim ban, also blocks refugees from all over the world for 120 days  indefinitely for those from Syria. And when the ban lifts, annual intake for 2017 will be 50,000, down by more than half from 2017.

We dont want them here, Trump said signing the order, which introduces new vetting measures and rules for admission. We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas.

A woman exits immigration after arriving from Dubai on Emirates Flight 203 at John F Kennedy International Airport in Queens, New York. (REUTERS)

The president also signed an executive action, different from an order that is enforceable by law, a great rebuilding of the armed services by developing a plan for new planes, new ships, new resources and new tools for our men and women in uniform.

But it was the Muslim ban that was generating more attention and opposition.

The Council on American Islamic Relations, a leading Muslim body, has said it plan a constitutional challenge to the order on behalf of more than 20 individuals.

The American Civil Liberties Union, the International Refugee Assistance Project at the Urban Justice Center, the National Immigration Law Center, Yale Law Schools Legal Services Organization and others have already filed complaints.

France and Germany voiced disquiet over Trumps moves to limit refugees. This can only worry us... Welcoming refugees who flee war and oppression is part of our duty, French foreign minister Jean-Marc Ayrault said at a joint news conference in Paris with his German counterpart Sigmar Gabriel.

The United States is a country where Christian traditions have an important meaning. Loving your neighbour is a major Christian value, and that includes helping people, Gabriel said .

Iran said it would stop US citizens entering the country in retaliation to Trumps order.

People attend a rally and candlelight vigil in Los Angeles, California to protest against Islamophobia and US President Donald Trump's executive orders to curtail immigration. (AFP Photo)

Malala Yousafzai, shot in the head by the Pakistani Taliban in 2012 to stop her campaigning for girls education and co-winner of the 2014 Nobel peace prize, impored Trump to not to turn his back on the worlds most defenseless children and families.

The UN refugee agency and International Organization for Migration called on the Trump administration to continue offering asylum to people fleeing war and persecution. The needs of refugees and migrants worldwide have never been greater and the US resettlement programme is one of the most important in the world, the Geneva-based agencies said in a joint statement.

The order has also been slammed by private companies such as Google and Facebook. Its painful to see the personal cost of this executive order on our colleagues, Pichai wrote in a memo to staff.

Facebooks Mark Zuckerberg wrote in a post, Like many of you, I'm concerned about the impact of the recent executive orders  We need to keep this country safe, but we should do that by focusing on people who actually pose a threat.

And Joe Crowley, chairman of the House Democrats caucus, said it was unconscionable that Trump would shut the door on desperate children, families, and elderly who have been forced to flee their homes and countries affected by violence and war.

Some on Trumps own National Security Council had concerns about the order, Associated Press reported, but were ignored by the inner circle, possibly chief strategist Steve Bannon and the presidents son-in-law and advisor Jared Kushner.

The impact of the ban was felt swiftly in the US and around the world. Two Iraqi refugees  one of whom had worked for the US government in Iraq  were stopped and detained by customs and border patrol at the JFK airport in New York on Friday night.

And seven US-bound migrants  six from Iraq and one from Yemen  being escorted by officials of the UN agency for refugees were prevented from boarding an EgyptAir flight for New York in Cairo in the early hours of Saturday.

An attorney for the Iraqis stopped at the Kennedy Airport told The New York Times that when he asked the customs officials who they should speak to to resolve the clients situation, he was told, Mr President  Call Mr Trump.

Trump started down this road with an extreme position, calling for a temporary ban on Muslims entering the country in the aftermath of the San Bernardino terrorists attack in December 2015, that reminded a lot of Americans of 9/11.

He toned it down over a period of time to extreme vetting for visitors and immigrants from areas of the world impacted by terrorism, mostly, it was extrapolated, Muslim-majority countries, some of whom figured on the Friday blacklist.

But it did not include Afghanistan, Pakistan and Turkey, countries hit the hardest by terrorist attacks in recent times. But the order said clearly that more countries could be added to that list as deemed necessary by relevant government agencies.

(with agency inputs)
US President Donald Trump will call almost half a dozen counterparts from around the globe on Saturday, among them Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, the first foreign leader with whom he met after his election.

The conversation comes just days after Trump formally withdrew the United States from the Trans-Pacific Partnership, a vast trade deal encompassing a dozen nations that Abe has backed enthusiastically.

US participation is seen as key to the agreement and Abe said he would keep trying to convince Trump of its merits.

But on Thursday, Abe said he would consider the possibility of Tokyo and Washington hammering out a trade deal alone -- Trump has said he preferred bilateral trade agreements to multilateral accords.

Abe was the first world leader to rush to meet the US president-elect in New York, visiting Trump just nine days after Americans voted him into office in a surprise victory.

The meeting stirred controversy when Trumps daughter, Ivanka, a former model and current business executive with no formal role in Trumps presidency, was seen in attendance.

Trump will also speak on Saturday with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Russian President Vladimir Putin, French President Francois Hollande and Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.

The conversations come one day after Trumps meeting with Britains Prime Minister Theresa May, the first foreign leader to visit his White House.

Trump hailed the most special relationship between the twin Atlantic powers and praised Britains decision to leave the European Union as a wonderful thing.
Senior Labour MP Virendra Sharma and other party lawmakers have declared they will vote against the British governments Brexit bill, throwing the party into turmoil.

The bill will authorise Prime Minister Theresa May to trigger Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty to leave the European Union.

Opposition to the bill comes particularly from those MPs whose constituencies voted overwhelmingly to remain in the EU in last years referendum. Two ministers in Labour leader Jeremy Corbyns shadow cabinet have also resigned, but the party supports the bill.

Sharma, whose constituency of Ealing Southall includes a large population of Indian origin, said: I will not vote for a Brexit blank cheque. I consider continued cooperation with the European Medicines Agency, the European Aviation Safety Agency and the European Police Office (Europol) essential to British prosperity and security.

He added, I cannot in good conscience vote to trigger Article 50 while it will threaten peoples jobs, wages and pensions. Access to the Single Market and a legal commitment to ensure the labour rights, health and safety protections, consumer rights, and environmental standards we currently enjoy are all key to my political beliefs.

If we cannot get clarity on our relationship with crucial international institutions then I will not vote to trigger Article 50 without a real plan for the future.

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Its looking like Barack Obama has quite the post-POTUS career set out for him. Its been reported that Barack Obamas post-presidency memoir could earn him the largest advance of all time for a book of its kind. Its been predicted that due to the historic nature of Baracks presidency, his memoir could earn him an advance of more than $20 million. For context, Bill Clinton received an advance of $15 million for his post-presidency memoir.

In other Obama news, the former president is in the process of setting up The Obama Foundation. Hopefully that turns out better than The Clinton Foundation.

Barack Obama
Following his arrest earlier this week, Chief Keef has been released on $500,000 according to his records on the Los Angeles County Sherriffs Department inmate information center, Fake Shore Drive reports. Keef (real name Keith Cozart) is listed as being released from L.A. county jail at 9:33 PM on January 27th. Keef posted photos of himself on Instagram later on that night.

Keef was arrested on charges of robbery and assault Thursday, reportedly tied to an alleged home invasion of producer Ramsay Tha Great. Cozart and one other man were taken into custody after police obtained a warrant to search the rappers home in Tarzana, California.



Chief Keef just released his Two Zero One Seven mixtape earlier this month. Hes planning to go on tour in support of the project in a few weeks time.

Chief Keef
Mark Hamill on stage during Future Directors Panel at the Star Wars Celebration 2016 at ExCel on July 17, 2016 in London, England. (Photo : Getty Images/ Ben A. Pruchnie)

"Star Wars: The Last Jedi" has been revealed to be the title for "Star Wars Episode VIII." The title's ambiguity has sparked a well of speculations and now actor Mark Hamill, who plays Luke Skywalker in the films, discussed what the title could possibly refer to.



Lucasfilm did tell Hamill the official film title back when the movie was still in midst of production, Hamill explained in an interview with Uproxx. He then pointed out that the phrase "The Last Jedi" was mentioned first in the opening crawl for "Star Wars: The Force Awakens."



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During this crawl of text, the term is used in reference to Luke Skywalker and that the First Order would not stop until "the last Jedi" was eliminated. Luke was also referred to as the last Jedi in "Star Wars: Return of the Jedi" given that his mentor, Yoda, had passed away.



"I was wondering why they would use that phrase if it was used that way, because it specifies me. And I think it's very ambiguous. Is the last Jedi Leia? Is it me?" he stated. "Is it someone we've never met before? Or is it Rey? Because she seems to have the force as well. So we'll all wait and see."



The titles for the "Star Wars" films have also been undergoing a few changes from their traditional routine. The new naming conventions may also be giving a hint in regards to the plot of the entire sequel trilogy, particularly when the titles are put together.



"The Force awakens the last Jedi" would be the final phrase when the titles for "Episode VII" and "Episode VIII" are put together. If this is indeed a hint for the films then the last Jedi would be Rey (Daisy Ridley) given how it was her Force abilities that were awoken in the previous film, Comic Book reported.



Disney and Lucasfilm have yet to confirm or deny of the rumors regarding "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" and what its title refers to. The official trailer for "The Force Awakens" can be viewed below:






Veteran British actor John Hurt, who spent many years living in Ireland, has sadly died at the age of 77 following a battle with cancer.

Sir John Hurt  who was twice nominated for an Oscar and won a Golden Globe and four BAFTA awards  will be fondly remembered for appearing in many classic and cult films, such as The Elephant Man, Midnight Express, Alien, The Hit, 'The Field' and 1984. While younger audiences will best remember him for his roles in the likes of the Harry Potter movies, the last installment of the Indiana Jones series in 2008 and the Doctor Who spin-off, 'War Doctor'. He also starred in the 1978 animated version of 'The Lord of the Rings' as the voice of Aragorn.

Paying tribute to the late actor, his widow Anwen Rees-Myers said this morning: John was the most sublime of actors and the most gentlemanly of gentlemen with the greatest of hearts and the most generosity of spirit. He touched all our lives with joy and magic and it will be a strange world without him.

In 2015, John Hurt opened up about his battle with pancreatic cancer, revealing in an interview with the Radio Times: I can't say I worry about mortality, but it's impossible to get to my age and not have a little contemplation of it. We're all just passing time, and occupy our chair very briefly.

John Hurt appeared on the BBC's 'Who Do You Think You Are?' back in 2007 and was deflated to discover that he didn't have any Irish blood.

"I am not who I believed I was. That really upsets me. Im not going to dance with pleasure to find out that one of the bankers in my life isnt true, am I? One of the bankers in my life was my Irish identity," he said at the time.

"When I went to Ireland for the very first time, I felt that I was where I should be. I felt it was home. As far as I was concerned I was Irish. My disappointment was that they had managed to prove that the one thing I thought I did have was Irish blood and I havent got any."

In 2014, John Hurt told the Irish Independent newspaper that he still had reasons to believe that his grandmother's family had Irish roots.



Hurt, who appeared in an acclaimed production of Beckett's 'Krapp's Last Tape' at the Gate Theatre in 2013, said several years after the BBC show: "Anyway, youre really as Irish as you feel."


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BROWNSVILLE - On a bright, windy day in this town on the southern tip of Texas, Sandalio Mata sat in a rocking chair, doing a crossword puzzle outside his postage-stamp house off an alley.

Mata, still spry at 91 after a life working as a migrant farm laborer, had just returned from a community center for elderly, where he finds companionship and care paid through Medicaid, the federal health care program for the poor. Medicaid also pays for the care of his wife, Maria, 85, whose arthritis-swollen knees make it difficult for her to move around and keeps her at home.

That care comes from their daughter, Nina Newell, who works for a home health agency, earning just above minimum wage to do small chores around the house, make sure Maria takes the right medications, and keep her company. "I love to work with the elderly," Newell said in Spanish, holding her mother's frail hands.

Newell's occupation is astonishingly common in Brownsville, a city of about 180,000. Personal home care attendants account for more than one in 10 jobs here - five times the Texas average and the greatest concentration of home health aides in the country, according to Labor Department and Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas.

In many ways, Brownsville and other border cities represent the future of care for America's aging population, since there's increasing recognition that "aging in place" is healthier and more cost effective than sending people to nursing homes. At the same time, state policy is making it difficult to expand that model across other parts of the state.

More Information Proportion of workforce in home health care in... - McAllen and Brownsville: About one in ten - Texas: About one in 50 - United States: One in 100 Median wage for personal care aides in Texas: $8.51 Number of personal care and home health aides in Texas: About 260,000 Number of new jobs by 2024: 102,000 Source: Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, Labor Department, See More Collapse

In locales with higher living costs, particularly urban centers, the $8 an hour provided for by Texas Medicaid's reimbursement rates won't be enough to draw qualified workers that will be needed. The Texas Workforce Commission projects the home health industry, which already employs 260,000, would grow by another 102,000 jobs - if workers can be found to fill them.

To some extent, the dominance of the home health care profession in Brownsville and other border cities results from a simple economic equation: The Rio Grande Valley is among the poorest regions in the country, and has the highest rates of chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension. At the same time, the cost of living is low, and few other jobs are available for those without college degrees.

"Thus, you have the demand: The sick elderly population," says Jose Pena, CEO and medical director at RGV ACO, a health benefits manager in the area. "And the supply: Low-educated middle age population available to work as home aides."

That works out fine for the Mata family - but other poor seniors may end up going without help.

Uneven distribution

Despite a reputation for low taxes and skimpy services, Texas has long been generous in providing services for people who can't leave their homes.

In 1989, Texas Senator Lloyd Bentsen pushed through a change to Social Security that allowed states to expand eligibility for personal attendant services beyond income limits set by Medicaid. That meant the program could pay for home health aides for people who weren't desperately poor - dramatically increasing participation in the program, since Texas opted to offer the benefit.

"Texas has decades of capacity building, so there's more of a familiarity with attendant services," says Anne Dunkelberg, who studies health care policy at the Austin-based Center for Public Policy Priorities.

About 482,000 people receive home health and personal assistance services through state-licensed agencies, and about 146,000 of their providers are paid through Medicaid, according to the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. But they're not distributed equally throughout the state.

For example, Cameron and Hidalgo counties, where Brownsville and McAllen are respectively located, make up about 4.5 percent of Texas' population, and have 11.6 percent of the clients of home health agencies. The same is true of adult day cares, where health aides help people like Sandalio Mata.

Hidalgo and Cameron counties have 195 adult day cares. Harris county, with nearly four times their combined population, has only 41.

So why the high density of attendant services in the Rio Grande Valley?

The first reason is poor health. Local public health researchers have documented diabetes rates approaching 30 percent, compared to 11 percent statewide, as well as elevated rates of high blood pressure, or both at once. Those conditions make daily life difficult, but don't require hospital admissions, making it common for doctors to approve home and personal health care aides instead - even for relatively young seniors in their 60s.

The second reason: poverty. Brownsville had the highest poverty rate in the nation in 2015, at 32.4 percent, just slightly above McAllen and Laredo. That creates a concentration of people eligible for both Medicare, the government program for the elderly, and Medicaid, making it financially viable to cater to that population.

"It does create some different market possibilities for providers," says Dunkelberg. "The possibility of creating a model that really grows on Medicaid patients is way more financially there than it would be in other parts of the state."

The third reason has to do with culture: Hispanic families are more likely to keep elderly folks at home, often in multi-generational households, rather than sending them to assisted living facilities.

But another reason comes up when talking about the proliferation of community health services in the Rio Grande Valley: Local entrepreneurs there have proven adept at milking government revenues. The problem of over-billing, sometimes to the point of fraud, was dramatized in a 2009 New Yorker article that identified McAllen as having the costliest health care in the country.

Changing perceptions

Roberto Zamora, who owns La Plaza Adult Day Care in Brownsville, recognizes that problem. He opened his own facility about 20 years ago after getting tired of working at other day cares that he described as skimpy on activities and laser-focused on profits. "Every time they would have a meeting, all they would talk about is money," he said. "I used to hate that."

Zamora is trying to change that perception, by putting as much as possible of the $4 per client per hour he gets from Medicaid into enrichment activities. On a Friday in mid-December, La Plaza held a traditional Christmas celebration called the Posada, in which people parade to each door off the main hall, singing gustily to a guitar. After that comes a snack of tripe tacos - special for the holiday - and a sewing project, followed by a dance contest.

"Baila, baila!" yelled Janie Toledo, 71, from the sidelines. She retired a couple years ago as a home health aide herself, never making enough to exceed the income threshold for Medicaid. But that gave her an appreciation for staying active, and she prefers La Plaza's high-energy environment to other day cares, where the main activity is chalupa, a game akin to bingo.

"Over there where I was, all we did was get there, have breakfast, play chalupa, eat, play chalupa, go home," Toledo said. "I have arthritis, and doesn't want to get stiff, because that would mean going into a wheelchair. I see what happens to them when they stop moving."

Money talks

As useful as home attendant and community services can be, they're few and far between in some parts of the state, for one reason: Money.

Partly because of Texas Medicaid's low reimbursement rate, the median wage for personal care aides in the state is $8.51, according to the Paraprofessional Healthcare Institute - the second lowest in the country after Mississippi, which pays a nickel less. The median wage for home health aides is only slightly higher, at $8.89. For that reason, finding attendants for Medicaid beneficiaries is difficult where housing costs are high and labor markets tight.

Take Austin, where Andrew Hodge owns and operates a home health agency. He doesn't accept Medicaid, because it's not worth trying to find people who'll work for near minimum wage when private insurance reimburses enough to pay caregivers $10 to $12 an hour.

"I don't know how anybody does it," Hodge said.

The same is true of adult day cares, of which there is only one in Travis County.

The problem of low wages was supposed to be solved in part by the Affordable Care Act's move toward managed care, which funnels Medicaid and Medicare dollars through medical organizations that take care of the full spectrum of patients' needs. That gives these "managed care organizations" the flexibility to pay more for caregivers if it saves money by preventing expensive hospitalizations.

Still, it hasn't made it easier to recruit home health aides in places where Walmart pays more than $10 an hour. Advocates warn the health care system could face a serious shortage of people willing to do the job.

"I talk with consumers, people who need those services, they're dependent on those providers," said Kay Ghahremani, the director of Texas' Medicaid programs until 2015 and now CEO of the Texas Association of Community Health Plans, a trade group for managed care groups. "When you have fast food restaurants paying more, from the Medicaid director's perspective, it's a big concern."

Penny wise?

Business and consumer advocacy groups are pushing the Legislature to give community health attendants a raise. In its budget request, the Health and Human Services Commission asked for money to boost wages by 50 cents an hour, but the Coalition of Texans with Disabilities, an Austin nonprofit, says that's not nearly enough. Instead, the advocacy group has proposed raising the minimum wage for home health attendants to $13 by 2019 at a cost of $1.25 billion over two years.

That would be matched by the federal government, and could save money through lower turnover and less need for paying other safety net benefits like food stamps. Still, it's a big ask in a legislative session focused on cutting programs to account for reduced revenue.

But Dennis Borel, the coalition's director, warns that shortchanging caregivers could lead to the kind of scandal that faced Child Protective Services last year: Overworked and underpaid staff falsified records and left kids in danger, prompting a judge to declare the program unconstitutional and recommend fixes costing millions.

"At some point, you have CPS copied in other programs," Borel says. "They failed to pay adequate wages to those people most responsible, and now they're throwing money at it left and right."
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WASHINGTON - Congressional Republicans are moving to undo a key element of the Obama administration's effort to reduce the oil and gas industry's impact on greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.

Legislation is being readied in the House to overturn an executive order from last year cutting the amount of methane - a particularly potent greenhouse gas - that is vented and flared from drilling sites on federal and tribal lands. The bill, along with another piece of legislation overturning an order protecting streams and wildlife around coal mines, is set to be introduced Monday.

"These are abusive last-minute regulations that are grossly inconsistent with congressional intent," Rep. Rob Bishop, R-Utah, chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee, said in a conference call Friday. "They will impose a real an unnecessary cost on American people and communities."

A day after a Republican retreat in Philadelphia headlined by President Donald Trump, party leaders were gearing up to roll back federal regulation at-large. And with Trump's public skepticism that climate change constitutes the global crisis scientists maintain, greenhouse gas emission rules are expected to be near the top of the list.

Most immediately, Republicans plan to revive a little-used law signed by former President Bill Clinton in the 1990s that gave Congress the authority to overturn any regulation within 60 days of publication - a measure designed to keep presidential administration's from tacking on regulations on their way out of the White House.

Known as the Congressional Review Act, it has only been used once in the past two decades. But now Republicans want to use it to tackle rules on everything from overtime pay to climate change.

Environmentalists are already stepping up campaigns to block the legislation in the Senate, where Republicans maintain a thin 52-48 majority.

"The math is hard, but it's not settled," said Chase Huntley, a senior government relations director at the Wilderness Society, a conservation group.

The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that methane is 25 times more powerful than carbon dioxide in terms of its warming effect on the atmosphere. While emitted by everything from landfills to cattle, the highest proportion - 33 percent - comes from oil and gas systems.

Last year the Bureau of Land Management said it was time to update its decades-old drilling rules, arguing it was for the good of the planet and would slow the waste of a valuable public resource in methane, the principal component of natural gas.

But for drillers, either burning methane or allowing it to escape is a part of doing business. Getting pipelines built to remote drilling locations requires investment and approval from government agencies. And with natural gas selling at historic lows, the incentive to capture that gas is reduced.

With global pressure to address climate change building, some companies have increased efforts to seek out methane leaks and reduce emissions. Since 1990 overall methane emissions have come down 6 percent, according to EPA.

Oil and gas industry groups like the Western Energy Alliance have long fought methane regulations, arguing they add billions of dollars in cost, raising energy prices while reducing oil field jobs. But the oil lobby faces opposition from a small but burgeoning industry that sells sensors and provides manned inspection teams armed with infrared goggles to root out leaks on drilling sites.

In Colorado, which has some of the strictest methane emission rules in the country, Houston-based Rebellion Photonics has made a business selling automated gas detection systems. CEO Allison Sawyer said the rush to fix leaks has led to rising demand for maintenance staff in the oil fields.

"It's worked really well in Colorado," she said. "They're high-paying blue-collar jobs that can never be exported."

Sawyer and others in her industry are working with environmentalists to press their case to Congress. But they will have to flip some Republicans, with Bishop expressing confidence Friday that he has the votes in the House and the Senate to get his legislation passed.

Bishop said he planned to "address" two similar methane rules adopted by the Environmental Protection Agency but had not yet decided on how. A rule relating to emissions from new wells is too old to be addressed by the Congressional Review Act. Overturning it would likely require an executive order from Trump.

The other rule, for existing wells, is still in development at the agency and is not expected to be completed.

"We're a little ahead of how many of those I want to do administratively and how many I want to do legislatively," Bishop said.

"The method I'm going to use in the future is not quite clear."
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PEMBERTON, N.J. - As jobs-versus-environment clashes go, few issues have been as hard fought and generated as much passion in New Jersey as a proposal to run a natural gas pipeline through federally protected woods atop some of the nation's purest drinking water.

The plan was narrowly defeated in 2014. But since then, Republican Gov. Chris Christie has replaced several commissioners on the state agency that will reconsider the plan with supporters of the pipeline. Last week, a public hearing on building the pipeline was held in Pemberton.

With a new Republican administration in power in Washington that is more receptive to fossil fuel energy projects, the fate of the Pinelands pipeline is sure to be closely watched by national energy and environmental groups.

South Jersey Gas proposes to run the pipe from Maurice River Township in Cumberland County to the B.L. England power plant in Upper Township; it would run mostly under or alongside existing roads.

Jeff DuBois, CEO of South Jersey Industries, said the company already operates over 1,400 miles of gas mains and 133 miles of elevated pressure lines within the Pinelands without harm to the environment.

New Jersey regulators will decide whether the pipeline gets built. After the proposal was defeated in 2014, the executive director of the New Jersey Pinelands Commission unilaterally decided that it met the agency's criteria and was therefore approved.

Environmentalists sued, and a court ordered the commission to take a new vote. That could come as soon as next month.

Supporters and foes packed the hearing last week, and dozens of others were denied entry when the room reached its capacity of about 250.

The proposed pipeline has been hotly fought by environmental groups, who fear it will harm the fragile Pinelands and set a bad precedent for future development there. They said it will cause a loss of some habitat and increase runoff and erosion in an area home to an aquifer estimated to hold 17 trillion gallons of some of the nation's purest water.

Four former state governors - two Republicans and two Democrats - also oppose the pipeline, citing their desire to protect a natural resource.
Discovery Green soon will be filled with visitors strolling around with Grand Marnier crepes in their hands and the smell of steak frites and coq au vin filling the air. For real? Oui.

That's because Brasserie du Parc  a new French bistro from the owners of Etoile Cuisine et Bar  is due to open in a tres chic outpost on the northern lip of Discovery Green at the base of One Park Place tower. Monday Jan. 30 is the day chef Philippe Verpiand and his wife and business partner, Monica Bui, plan to open their restaurant with its walk-up window for crepes called Creperie du Parc. And just in time to catch the hordes of out-of-towners expected to take in all the Super Bowl action at Discovery Green and George R. Brown Convention Center.

NEW RESTAURANTS: A slew of new spots opening up before the Super Bowl

Not by accident. Brasserie du Parc, like so many other restaurants fighting to open before SBLI, has been pulling sleepless days and nights to make its public debut. For Verpiand and Bui it's an enormous new step into the busy Houston food scene made four years after opening their first restaurant, Etoile, in Uptown Park. The success of that Gallic charmer led to the brasserie in one of the most desirable locations in downtown Houston  Marvy Finger's white glove apartment building overlooking Discovery Green.

"Honestly, we were not searching for another location, but this came up," he said of the formerly unused space at the corner of Lamar and La Branch. "I never thought I'd be downtown but the first time I saw it I liked it right away."

Both he and Bui envisioned a classic Parisian restaurant of Verpiand's native France (he hails from Provence, the son of a second-generation butcher). For Verpiand that meant a menu of classic dishes such as beef tartare, moules frites, foie gras au torchon, goat cheese salad, sole meuniere, duck confit, coq au vin, and steak frites glossed with sauce bearnaise. All those can be found on the menu executed in a manner worthy of a chef who has worked in seven Michelin-star restaurants in France and who happens to be one of only five Master Chefs of France living in Texas.

The dinner menu also includes dishes such as chicken liver pate served with red Dijon and cornichons; Burgundy-style baked snails; seafood risotto; Gulf snapper with saffron cream and fingerling potatoes; pasta with wild boar Bolognese; ribeye steak with French fries and spring salad mix; and Tartiflette, a creamy casserole loaded with bacon, potatoes and reblochon cheese from the French Alps. Lunch finds many of the same dinner dishes at a slightly lower price point, as well as sandwiches (the classic Croque Monsieur; a brioche bun burger), quiche, and merguez sausage.

Desserts also cover the indulgent classics: creme brulee, pot au chocolate, and Ile Flottante (a "floating island" of crispy meringue on a sea of pistachio creme anglaise).

And then there's the crepes. The partners hope to do a nice business in their clever walk-up window attached to the terrace portion of the restaurant offering take-away crepes. Both the savory (salmon and creme fraiche; ham and gruyere; ratatouille and mozzarella; pork belly; and shrimp, salmon, and blue crab in saffron veloute) and the sweet (Nutella; banana and Nutella; strawberry and Chantilly cream; Grand Marnier Suzette; caramelized apples, vanilla mascarpone, and fleur de sel caramel) are covered. And all served in the restaurant as well.

Bui designed the restaurant, taking inspiration from classic brasseries with their antique glass, colorful French posters, marble tables, and curvy lamps. The color scheme is the orange and yellow warmth of autumnal leaves: amber colored water glasses; ochre walls; marigold beadboard wainscoting; cognac-hued bar stools, creamy cognac leather dinner chairs, and the pale gold glow of Edison bulb lighting fixtures.

The space is divided into several areas including the light-filled terrace with its marble table tops, rattan bistro chairs, and glass "doors" that can slide open when the weather's optimal; the main dining room with white tablecloth and leather chairs; an upstairs wine room; and a double-height bar area anchored by a four-sided, brass-top bar with a three-tier glass canopy holding liquor and glassware.

The bar is where beverage director Kimberly Paul will show off her seasonal cocktails such as the Wallbanger circa 2017 (vodka, Galliano, and cardamom orange syrup); Oaxaca Old Fashioned (mezcal, turbinado sugar, and house-made orange bitters); Faux Snow Day (tequila, coconut and lime cordial, soda and Angostura bitters); and Bonny Prince Dram (scotch poured over an Earl Gray tea and honey ice ball). There are also three larger-format shared cocktails including Whiskey Spiced Tea Punch (rye, spice tea, lemon, mint); Rhum Petit Punch Vieux (rum, spiced syrup, lime and raspberry); and Sloe Ginger Punch (gin, ginger beer, lemon, sloe gin, and soda). And what would a good French bistro be without its aperitifs? They are here in good measure.

Verpiand said there's a mix of emotions attending the opening of Brasserie du Parc: stress, yes, but excitement too. Especially with 140,000 out-of-town visitors descending on Houston next week.

Brasserie du Parc, 1440 Lamar, 832-879-2802; will be open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
On Jan. 2, Shaker Sister Frances Carr died at the age of 89. She had been a Shaker for almost 80 years and passed away at the Shaker community at Sabbathday Lake in Maine.

And so it was with a pang of sorrow that I read Sister Carr's obituary. She had been a member of the community since 1937, when the Shakers (who called themselves the United Society of Believers in Christ's Second Appearing) had taken her in as a 10-year-old orphan.

According to one point of view, Carr was the last Shaker. In the mid-20th century, as the number of Shaker villages dwindled to two - Canterbury in New Hampshire and Sabbathday Lake in Maine, members of the Canterbury group felt strongly that the church should be allowed to die out. They insisted that Shaker membership had been closed since 1965 and that no new members would be accepted by either remaining Shaker community.

However, the members at Sabbathday Lake stressed the autonomy of each local community. Quietly, a few younger people became associated with the Maine community in the 1960s through the 1980s. The two remaining members of this community, Arnold Hadd and June Carpenter, are listed as members today.

Regardless of which side one might take, the death of this "last" Shaker is at least the symbolic close of an era. At one point in time, Shakers were quite a notable element in the religious and cultural life of United States. Even today, Shaker insights and way of life have much to offer.

History of Shakers

To begin with, the "Society of Believers" grew steadily in the United States from 1774, the year their founder, the English visionary and preacher Mother Ann Lee, arrived in New York with a few of her followers.

At first met with some resistance and even violence, Mother Ann started public preaching, prophesies and Spirit-inspired singing and dancing.

She insisted that Christ already had returned "in glory" from the dead, as he had promised in the gospels. She urged those who accepted this truth to respond by confessing their sins and then gathering together to live new lives in more perfect societies.

Believers dissolved their marriages in order to live in communal villages, practicing strict celibacy as "brothers" and "sisters." Those who had children allowed them to be raised by the community; they also took in orphaned and unwanted children.

They held all of their goods in common, made their own clothes, constructed and invented their own tools and architecture, and lived their days according to a specific order in work and prayer.

Apart from one urban community in Philadelphia, composed largely of African-American Shaker women, Shaker villages were agricultural communities, self-sufficient for the most part, supporting themselves by selling their produce and crafts. Most notable of these were packaged seeds, a joint venture of several Shaker communities marketed as the Shaker Seed Company.

Community decline

For almost 100 years, Shaker communities grew and expanded in the eastern United States. In the first part of the 19th century, there were more than 20 Shaker communities housing some 6,000 members, concentrated largely in New England and New York but scattered in other states as far west as Kentucky and as far south as Florida.

However, during the second half of the 19th century, the Shaker movement began a long decline. American society was going through a period of rapid transformation, sparked both by the Civil War and the impact of the Industrial Revolution.

Against this backdrop, many elements of Shaker life seemed at best antiquated (for instance, their determined rejection of "the world") and at worst repellent (especially their insistence on mandatory celibacy). The number of aspirants wishing to join dropped and people began to leave Shaker communities. The remaining Shaker population was rapidly aging.

Slowly, Shaker village after Shaker village closed and the land was sold to local towns or private individuals. Sections of 15 others, including Sabbathday Lake, were preserved as historical sites through the National Parks Service, and are still open today for tours and workshops.

Lasting legacy

But regardless of whether or not the Shakers' actual communities survive the 21st century, many believe their influence has shaped and will continue to shape American thought and culture in more than one way.

Members of the society, for example, were early proponents of gender equality, based on the fundamental teaching of Mother Ann that all believers were radically united in Christ's second coming. Christ was already present, they believed, within each of them and among them as a community; therefore, harmony was a key element in the structuring of all Shaker communities.

Teams of both sisters and brothers served in leadership roles as Elders and Eldresses, and Mother Ann continued to be the touchstone figure for all of the communities.

Believers also were determined pacifists, holding that warfare was antithetical to true Christianity. Members of the society stressed a simplicity of lifestyle, expressed in a strong sense of responsibility and adaptability in their daily actions and decisions. They accepted both "science" and "religion" as part of God's truth, and so never rejected technological advances, just the materialism that tended to come with them.

Death is necessary

Certainly, there are elements of the Shaker gospel and "harmony" that simply do not carry over into the 21st century, such as the insistence on mandatory celibacy for all members or the expectation of visions from diverse spirits.

But Shakers' rejection of "the world" does offer us today some insightful reflections on contemporary issues such as their pacifism when confronted by terrorism; their mutual love and respect in the face of gender and racial divisions; and their cheerful blending of prosperity and simplicity as a response to the wasteful nature of many materialistic cultures.

Like the seeds they once nurtured and sold, the Shakers were themselves seeds and catalysts in American society.
Precinct 3 Commissioner James Noack is pushing forward with a project to construct the Gosling Road bridge despite a stalemate between his office and Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Jack Cagle.

Noack met with Harris County Judge Ed Emmett Friday.

"We discussed the history of the Gosling Bridge project, funding alternatives and possible solutions on how together we could move forward," Noack told The Courier.

Emmett is a member of the Houston-Galveston Area Council's Transportation Policy Council, which determines the rules of funding road projects and which projects will be considered for funding. Noack said Emmett will review the Gosling Bridge project, meet with Cagle and determine the appropriate steps.

Later Friday, Noack spoke with David Wurdlow, Transportation Improvement Plan manager for HGAC, who confirmed that the calls for projects for 2017-18 and any funding rules associated with them have not been decided, meaning the Gosling project is not in jeopardy of losing its opportunity for funding due to the commissioners' stalemate so far.

Noack also said the total cost of the project could drop and the timeline be reduced if the project is funded with local dollars.

While there is no professional estimate on the cost of the project so far, Cagle's office requested $5.1 million for Montgomery County's share, with around $3.4 million of those costs being reimbursed to Montgomery County per an Advanced Construction Agreement between Harris County and the Texas Department of Transportation, according to Cagle.

Noack's counter proposal is for Montgomery County to fund 100 percent of the engineering and design portion ($1.7 million). Harris County would be responsible for the construction cost and reimbursed 80 percent from TxDOT through the advanced agreement.

Noack said one reason to let Cagle handle the bridge construction is because Harris County Precinct 4 also will be widening Gosling Road from Mossy Oak to the bridge, giving Cagle the opportunity to oversee the entire construction project. Noack would want to be involved in choosing the engineering firm along with Harris County.

Noack also wants a firm estimate and claims Cagle's cost estimates for the project have ranged from $830,000 to $5 million.

Noack does not want to start the Gosling Bridge construction project until the ongoing Kuykendahl Bridge project is completed.

The Gosling Road bridge, which crosses the county line near The Woodlands Village of Creekside Park in Harris County, is one of Noack's five funded projects approved by voters in November 2015 as part of the $280 million road bond package. Noack allocated $3.8 million for the county share of the project.

The Stalemate

Cagle said "communication difficulty" started sometime ago with Noack's stance against several of his projects, specifically the Texas 249 tollway and direct connectors for the Grand Parkway at Interstate 45, during a meeting regarding the Kuykendahl bridge project over the Montgomery-Harris County line.

"At that meeting, Noack announced he wanted to oppose our 249 project," Cagle said in a previous Courier article, noting also in attendance at that meeting were then-Precinct 2 Commissioner Craig Doyal and Alex Sutton, with The Woodlands Development Company. "Not really a good way to start a set of negotiations."

However, Noack said his stance was not against Harris County's toll program and Texas 249, but against Montgomery County developing a toll road program which Doyal, now county judge, and fellow court members support.

"Just because Commissioner Cagle doesn't like (my stance) doesn't mean (the Gosling project) is not something we should work together on," Noack said. "What Commissioner Cagle needs to realize is I am elected to protect the interests of Montgomery County not Jack Cagle."

Since then, the commissioners claim the other has not been willing to meet to discuss the project.

Cagle said he has tried to meet with Noack but claims the Precinct 3 commissioner has been "too busy." But Noack said when he reached out to Cagle following his invite, the Precinct 4 commissioner never responded.

On Dec. 15, Cindy Turski, an executive assistant with The Woodlands Township, sent an email to Noack and Cagle copying several other county and township officials stating township chairman Gordy Bunch would like to set up a meeting regarding an update on the ongoing Kuykendahl Road bridge project and future planning for the Gosling Road bridge project.

An additional two-lane bridge is being constructed on Kuykendahl Road over Spring Creek between Pine Plains Drive and Flintridge Drive. Noack has expressed a desire to wait until that project is completed before starting the Gosling Road bridge project so that two north-south corridors in close proximity at the county line are not affected at the same time.

Besong responded to Turski's group email stating Noack was available the first few weeks of January. However, in a Dec. 19 letter to Turski, Cagle said, "I respectfully believe there is no need for me to come to Montgomery County to appear before you on this occasion. The Kuykendahl Bridge, being managed by the Woodlands Road Utility District No. 1, is under construction and is scheduled for completion by May 17, 2017. On the Gosling Bridge, Harris County continues to await a check in the amount of $5.1 million dollars from Montgomery County. Of those funds, Montgomery County, after TxDOT gives its anticipated reimbursement, will receive a reimbursement of $3.4 million, making the total cost of the project to Montgomery County $1.7 million.

"Harris County would appreciate the assistance that your entity may lend, if any, in encouraging Montgomery County to send us the check."

Cagle suggested in December that Emmett and Montgomery County Judge Craig Doyal step in and work out the project and cost. However, Noack said that is not necessary and reached out to Emmett earlier this month to discuss a plan to move forward.
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A few minutes into a morning news broadcast on Friday, a man pointed to his mother's television set, which sat just beyond flower arrangements that strangers asked police to deliver to her home in the Villages. Look, it's you, the man told his 93-year-old mother, nearly shouting so she could hear him.

The elderly woman, nestled in a well-worn armchair in her den, looked up slowly and focused her eyes on the TV.

The video showed the woman's full-time caregiver hitting and cursing her as she sat in the same armchair earlier this month. The son caught the incident on video with a camera he had installed the day before.

The home health aide, Brenda Trahan Floyd, was arrested Thursday. She now faces a felony charge of elder abuse. The Houston Chronicle agreed to withhold the names of the victim and her family members to protect their privacy.

As the video played on TV, the 93-year-old didn't show any sign that she recognized herself or the home where she's lived since 1961, when she moved there with her strapping naval officer husband, whom she met at an officer's club dance in 1949. Her body was still strong - a doctor recently said he envied her heart health - but dementia had chipped away at her mind, especially since her partner of 63 years died in 2012.

On TV, the widow was sleeping in the same armchair on New Year's Day with her little brown dog asleep near her feet when the 59-year-old Floyd waddled into the room around 7:45 p.m., the elderly woman's bedtime.

Smacked and berated

Floyd, whom the son hired about 18 months ago through Care.com after talking with a reference and confirming she had no criminal history, wheeled a walker into the den. The home health aide tapped the shoulder of the elderly woman, who awoke startled.

"It's time to go to bed," Floyd said. Then the caregiver noticed a plate on the floor by the woman's feet.

"Pick up that thing for me," she said, pointing at the plate. Then the aide raised her right hand and slapped the woman's head.

"Why do you keep feeding that dog human food?" Floyd slapped her head again. "Get your (expletive) up and go to (expletive) bed, damn it."

The aide alternately smacked and berated the widow as she lifted herself out of the chair, grabbed hold of the walker and shuffled toward her bedroom. The aide stood in her way, leaned over her and yelled in her face like a drill sergeant.

"I said, why do you feed that dog human food?" Floyd slapped the back of her head again.

"I didn't do it," the elderly woman mumbled.

"Shut the (expletive) up, yes you did," Floyd responded before hitting her again. "Stop lying to me, (expletive)."

The widow's son watched the first slaps in real time that evening. He happened to check on the Nest-brand home video camera he had installed the previous day before his family celebrated New Year's Eve with his mother. The family spent a lot of time together, the son said - visiting most days, taking his mother out for dinner most weeks. His wife and her mother helped care for her, as well.

His wife, a cancer nurse, had concerns about Floyd, who blamed the widow's bruises on accidental falls - not uncommon among nonagenarians. He grew suspicious after spotting a bruise near her eyes. They took pictures, and he installed the camera without telling Floyd.

The man called 911, got into his SUV and drove the 2 miles from his nearby home. He met a police officer at his mother's home, the home where he grew up, and told the caregiver to leave the property immediately. She drove away in the car he'd given her so she could get to work.

'Did everything right'

Three days later, Floyd was charged with injury to an elderly individual, a third-degree felony. The local Memorial Villages Police Department teamed with Crime Stoppers to ask for help finding Floyd and offer a $5,000 reward for information. On Tuesday, the group published the son's video on YouTube; within days it drew nearly 180,000 views and stirred widespread outrage.

About 1:30 a.m. Friday, a tipster reported a suspicious person in north Houston driving a white Lexus, which matched the description of Floyd's vehicle. Responding officers took her into custody, HPD spokeswoman Jodi Silva said.

Floyd was booked into the Harris County Jail, where she was held in lieu of $5,000 bail. If convicted, Floyd could face two to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000.

To prevent such abuse in other households, Silva said, police recommend getting a background check, calling previous employers and considering a "nannycam," which the victim's son said he wished he had done earlier. Texas law allows residents to record video in their homes unless they unreasonably invade the privacy of another person, such as putting a camera in a bathroom.

The 93-year-old fell victim even though her family "did everything right," Silva said.

Signs of abuse

As many as 5 million older Americans fall victim to abuse, neglect or exploitation each year, according to the state's Adult Protective Services. The majority of cases go unreported, but the agency still gets more than 1,500 reports each month in the Houston region.

Across the state in fiscal year 2015, the agency received nearly 80,000 reports of abuse, neglect or exploitation of people 65 and older. Neglect accounted for about 9 in 10 reports, but investigators did validate more than 1,000 cases of physical abuse, spokeswoman Rachel Portnoy said.

Most perpetrators of in-home neglect and abuse were family members - adult children accounted for 38 percent and spouses another 15.6 percent - while paid caregivers made up 8.8 percent.

Signs of abuse include withdrawal, unexplained malnutrition or dehydration, and hesitation to talk openly. The agency said abusive caregivers may show indifference or anger toward the elderly person or speak of them as a burden.

Surrounded by family members on Friday, the elderly woman showed little sign of her ordeal. She looked elegant in a striped cream-colored blouse and a beaded necklace. Her little dog was by her side. Her bruises had faded.

As the video of her abuse played on TV, her son comforted her: "The bad woman is gone."

The widow admired the flowers on the table in her den. Though she didn't know why strangers sent her bouquets, she thought they were beautiful.
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Phoebe Dow was 19, waiting tables at a north Houston pool hall, when the right side of her face began to droop, and suddenly, she couldn't talk.

Arturo Garza was 55, watching TV at home in Needville, when his vision faded, and he collapsed to the floor.

Both had been born with a common defect, a small hole between the top two chambers of the heart that sometimes allows blood clots to reach the brain. Both had suffered a stroke as a result. Both were rushed to Memorial Hermann hospital, where a cardiologist named Dr. Richard Smalling told each about a clinical trial for a tiny metal device that could be passed through a catheter in a leg vein and advanced up into the heart, plugging the hole and possibly saving their lives.

Both signed up for the study.

In Houston, where people have access to more experimental treatments than perhaps anywhere in the country  offering hope of a medical breakthrough to untold numbers of patients  Dow and Garza landed on opposite ends of a high-stakes coin flip.

She was randomly selected for the test group that would receive the procedure; he drew the group that wouldn't.

She got better.

He did not.

***

Mark Mulligan/Houston Chronicle

The clinical study took more than a decade. Nearly 1,000 patients. Thousands of follow-up screenings at Memorial Hermann Heart & Vascular Institute and sites across the country.

Although the results won't be published until later this year, Smalling gave an overview this month at a pediatric conference. One of the slides in his presentation was a line graph showing how many years patients in the study had made it without a subsequent stroke: A blue line, flat and steady, representing patients like Dow, who had the holes in their hearts plugged; and an orange line, like a set of stairs tumbling down to the right, representing patients like Garza, who hadn't.

"Bottom line, when you compare those with metal in their chest with those who don't, you see a 75 percent reduction in recurrent strokes with the device," said Smalling, professor and director of cardiovascular medicine at UT Health's McGovern Medical School.

The findings have significant implications. The heart defect is known as a PFO, or a patent foramen ovale, and is found in about a quarter of the U.S. population. It's believed to be a leading cause of otherwise inexplicable strokes in people under the age of 55, possibly leading to as many as 70,000 incidents each year.

By the time Garza signed up for the clinical trial in 2007, Smalling and the study's three other primary investigators had already amassed evidence to suggest the procedure was safe and effective. But to prove it, they needed to record at least 25 recurrent strokes in patients like Garza, who were being treated only with medication, and compare those outcomes with the patients who'd had the procedure.

It's a harsh reality at the heart of many clinical trials: To demonstrate a treatment is beneficial, a certain number of patients must go without  and sometimes suffer for it.

The researchers finally hit that threshold last year and presented their findings to the Food and Drug Administration, the federal agency tasked with approving medical treatments. Several patients testified at a hearing in Washington D.C., including Dow, now 30 and working as an accountant in Houston.

"I'm here to tell you about how my life changed 10 years ago," she began.

"At 19, I didn't even know what a stroke was "

"I lost all of the mobility on the right side "

"Had to go through intense physical therapy "

"Had to withdraw myself from college "

"Chose to have the procedure with the PFO device "

"I will live a healthy life "

"If the device could save one person  then why not give them the opportunity?"

Months later, in August, Garza's wife, Anita, had just returned home from the grocery store when she heard a thud in the other room  the sound of her husband suffering stroke No. 3.

No. 4 came only a few weeks later, further impairing Garza's ability to speak and move, blunting years of rehab. His wife began to wonder how much more he could endure.

Finally, in October, the FDA issued its ruling: The PFO treatment had been approved for use in all patients.

Garza, 64 and growing desperate, was among the first to sign up.

***

Houston Chronicle

Last Tuesday, he lay on his back, eyes wide as nursing staff wheeled him into an operating room at Memorial Hermann's cardiac catheterization lab.

"Como estas?" Smalling greeted him.

Garza gave a thumbs up, though he admitted later that he was "a little freaked out." He hadn't realized he would be fully conscious for the procedure.

Another cardiologist inserted a catheter into an artery in Garza's right groin as Smalling lifted a long, wire-like probe from the operating table: An "intracardiac echo," he explained, used to capture images from inside the heart.

Smalling inserted it into the catheter. A picture appeared on a screen above. "We're looking at the right ventricle ... the aortic valve ... now at the left atrium."

"Senor Garza," Smalling said. "Breathe deep for me."

As Garza's chest rose and sank on the table, Smalling pointed to the monitor: "Do you see the bubbles going across?" he said, explaining that the small PFO opening between the heart chambers is what allows blood clots to reach the brain. "We're going to close that up."

Smalling turned to his instrument table and picked up a device  two discs smaller than a dime, connected by a narrow waist  perfectly shaped to plug the hole.

"This is it," he said, holding it up.

It's made of thin bands of nitinol metal, woven together like a cloth. The nickel-titanium alloy can be bent and twisted endlessly and still return to its original form, making it possible for the device to be squeezed into a narrow catheter and then pop back into shape once it's pushed through into the heart.

"Kind of amazing, right?" Smalling said.

He inserted the device into the tube in Garza's groin and began to snake it through.

"Just a little forward pressure," Smalling said, watching it move through Garza's body on an X-ray video monitor. "Very slow. Continuous."

A moment later: "OK, we're through."

On the screen, the device popped back open. Smalling moved it into position between the two chambers  "There, it makes a little sombrero"  then turned the probe counterclockwise four times to release the device.

"Senor Garza," Smalling said. "Toser."

"Que?"

"Cough!" the doctor repeated in English.

Garza released a few hoarse-sounding coughs as Smalling studied the monitor, watching to see if the plug was blocking air bubbles.

The doctor smiled and nodded. Done in 30 minutes.

"This looks like a perfect deployment," he said.

Garza was released from the hospital a day later.

After four strokes, it's unlikely the former construction worker will ever fully recover. He struggles to read and speak and won't ever return to work. He hasn't given much thought to how his life might have been different if he'd been chosen to receive the treatment years earlier.

"Better late than never," his wife figures.

Now, at least, anyone can have it.
Brenda Madrigal worries that she won't have her accounting job at the University of Houston in a year and will be forced to search for some under-the-table cash work.

The 22-year-old came to the U.S. illegally with her mother when she was seven and without her temporary work permit, she doesn't know how she'll support her two American siblings and her parents.

Ahmed Al Lami also worries. The 46-year-old Iraqi worked as an interpreter with English-language media during the war until he received death threats and immigrated here through a program for translators who are in danger. Now Al Lami wonders if he'll be able to visit his family in Baghdad or if they'll be blocked from coming here. And what about the scores of vulnerable translators left behind?

Like them, millions of immigrants and their families and advocates across the nation were shaken this week as President Donald Trump began enacting some of the most sweeping changes to immigration seen in decades. Friday, he signed an executive order that he said would impose tighter vetting to prevent foreign terrorists from entering the United States.

"I'm establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America," Trump said at a Pentagon ceremony. "We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country."

The order, released late Friday, indefinitely bans Syrian refugees from resettling here and temporarily suspends the admission of refugees from the rest of the world. It also implements a remarkably broad 90-day ban that could be extended on anyone from seven Muslim countries: Syria, Iraq, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. And it slashes the number of refugees admitted this year by more than half to 50,000.

"This would be one of the worst things that has happened in a very long time as far as U.S. values are concerned," said Madeleine Albright, a former U.S. Secretary of State who came here as a refugee from Czechoslovakia, during a conference call.

The latest action follows two executive orders this week that ordered construction of a multibillion-dollar border wall and cracked down on cities refusing to cooperate with the federal government on deportation. They also tripled the number of federal immigration agents and stripped away priorities the Obama administration implemented to focus on first deporting immigrants who have committed egregious crimes. Instead legal experts said anyone here illegally is now again at risk of deportation, no matter whether they have lived here for decades without committing a crime other than coming here illegally in the first place.

"It represents a gigantic step backwards to darker, xenophobic days," said Avideh Moussavian, a policy attorney at the National Immigration Law Center, an advocacy group based in Los Angeles.

Left unresolved was the future of immigrants here illegally like Madrigal, who came to the country illegally as children and are protected from deportation by a program Obama implemented in 2012.

During his campaign, Trump called for a ban on Muslim immigration, and though the order Friday does not single out any religion, advocates slammed it for focusing on majority Muslim countries and prioritizing refugees from minority religions, who are more likely to be Christian.

"Identifying specific countries with Muslim majorities and carving out exceptions for minority religions flies in the face of the constitutional principle that bans the government from either favoring or discriminating against particular religions," Anthony Romero, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union, said in a statement.

Scott Arbeiter, president of World Relief, an international humanitarian organization affiliated with the National Association of Evangelicals, said he was dismayed by the action, coming at a time when 65 million people are displaced across the globe. He suggested the order, signed on International Holocaust Remembrance Day, harks back to a time during World War II when people were questioned about whether they did enough to protect Jewish refugees.

"I wonder if our children and grandchildren will look at this time ... and ask us, 'what did you know and what did you do?" Arbeiter asked.

About 85,000 refugees were resettled here in the fiscal year ending last September, some 12,600 from Syria, where a brutal civil war has forced 11 million from their homes. Refugee advocates said that because it can take up to three years for refugees to be processed and vetted in an extensive multi-agency security screening, such a sudden brake on the process, even if temporary, has far-reaching consequences.

"It's going to have a devastating impact, obviously, for people who may have already been approved and expected to leave desperate situations for safety," said Kay Bellor, vice president for programs at Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, a national resettlement agency.

Experts say that the executive orders are written so broadly that it could extend to any number of immigrants. The vetting order, for instance, temporarily bans anyone from seven countries without defining what it means to be from a certain nation. That could include dual citizens who haven't been to their country of origin in years. The American Immigration Lawyers Association this week recommended clients from any of the affected countries who are not U.S. citizens but living here legally refrain from leaving in case they are not allowed to return.

Matt Zeller, a former U.S. Army captain and cofounder of the interpreter advocacy group No One Left Behind, said hundreds of Iraqi translators who worked with American troops and are in the process of receiving visas because they are in danger would lose that benefit. Thousands more Afghani translators could similarly be blocked if the administration views them as refugees like the Obama administration did, he said.

Shervin Taheran, a 24-year-old American of Iranian descent said the order harms U.S. citizens with families from those seven countries. Dozens of her relatives who live in the United Kingdom and Canada might now be prevented from attending her wedding in Houston this spring simply because of their Iranian nationality.

Across the country, immigrants were frantically calling advocates and attorneys and wondering how Trump would continue his march to limit immigration in the coming weeks.

Others praised his efforts, however, pointing out that it was a key part of his campaign and part of why many voters elected him.

"The refugee flow is overthrowing the existing order in Europe and it's part of the reason the U.S. government was overthrown in the fall," said Roy Beck, who heads NumbersUSA, a powerful national advocacy group that supports reducing immigration and whose platform was nearly mirrored by Trump's campaign. He said he hopes Trump cuts yearly immigration in half to 500,000 people so that resources can be poured instead into Americans.

"We've got to work on getting numbers down everywhere," he said.

A huge question remains about how the president will act on the more than 700,000 immigrants who came here illegally as children. Trump repeatedly has said he would repeal the Obama program, known as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, that protects them. Recently he appeared to back down, however, suggesting on ABC News this week that such youth "shouldn't be very worried."

Beck of NumbersUSA said he expected Trump to end the program by allowing the two-year work permits to expire. He imagined a more permanent solution might be enacted for them once other levels of immigration are reduced.

For Madrigal, who makes $44,000 a year as an accountant, losing her permit when it expires next year would be terrifying.

"It's always in the back of my mind," she said.
Fintech companies and banks may use blockchain technology services such as biometric authentication and mobile payment systems such as Apple Pay and AliPay. (Photo : Getty Images)

Blockchain infrastructure provider BitFury Group received $30 million as investment from Hong Kong-listed fintech company Credit China Fintech Holdings which also includes the setting up of a joint venture that will promote blockchain technology in China, CNBC reported.



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As part of the deal, the joint venture will help BitFury sell its bitcoin mining equipment.



The technology used in bitcoin is called blockchain, which is like a massive ledger where every transaction is recorded and stored in a global network to keep it tamper-proof. Blockchain has several applications which include securing information, easy processing of bank loans and more efficient trading.



According to the statement sent to CNBC by Phang Yew Kiat, vice chairman and CEO of Credit China Fintech, the company is considering the use of blockchain technology on some of its platforms, which will include peer-to-peer lending and payments services.



"We have a working prototype payment system using blockchain technologies working in our research laboratory," Phang was quoted as saying.



Blockchain technology has several potential uses and various applications in business, government and financial institutions.



However, as an emerging technology, industry players are still trying out blockchain's proof-of-concept for various uses and it would take some time before it is widely accepted and used, Ng Zhi Ying, an analyst with Forrester, said.



Ng cited the efforts of the Monetary Authority of Singapore, blockchain technology company R3, a consortium of banks, and the Singapore Exchange to pursue a proof-of-concept project, which aims to find a way to enable inter-bank payments using blockchain.



Earlier this month, at the World Economic Forum in Davos, the CEO of Ant Financial, Alibaba's payment affiliate, said they are looking into the possibility of using blockchain for Alipay system.



"It still hasn't gained that maturity level and people are trying to find out how do you use (blockchain), how can we scale it and how do you justify the return-on-investment of investing in this technology," Ng said.



Industry players are now looking for application of the blockchain technology using bitcoin in areas such as customer identification for banks, fraud prevention and implementing smart contracts in the insurance industry, monitoring and tracking of goods in the shipping industry and cross-border payments.



As blockchain technology's popularity grew, BitFury Group and international law firm Covington formed the Global Blockchain Business Council to bring industry players together and promote the latest blockchain innovations.


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WARSAW, Poland - Jewish and Christian leaders prayed over the ruins of gas chambers at Auschwitz-Birkenau as some warned on International Holocaust Remembrance Day of rising xenophobic hatred against Jews, Muslims and others.

Camp survivors gathered Friday with political leaders and representatives of Poland's Jewish community at the site where Germany murdered about 1.1 million people during World War II, mostly Jews, but also Poles, Roma, Soviet prisoners of war and others.

Poland's Prime Minister Beata Szydlo, who is from the Polish town where the Auschwitz memorial and museum is located, Oswiecim, recalled the "destruction of humanity" and the "ocean of lost lives and hopes" that resulted from the German genocide.

"It's an open wound that may close sometimes but it shall never be fully healed and it must not be forgotten," she said.

Dozens of Auschwitz survivors began a day of commemorations by placing wreaths and flowers at the infamous execution wall on the 72nd anniversary of the camp's liberation by Soviet soldiers.

The United Nations recognized Jan. 27 as International Holocaust Remembrance Day in 2005, and many commemorative events were held across the world.

"Tragically, and contrary to our resolve, anti-Semitism continues to thrive," U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said. "We are also seeing a deeply troubling rise in extremism, xenophobia, racism and anti-Muslim hatred. Irrationality and intolerance are back."

Elderly survivors at Auschwitz, which today is a museum and partially preserved memorial, paid homage to those killed by wearing striped scarves to symbolize the uniforms prisoners were given when they arrived at the concentration camp.

They walked slowly beneath the notorious gate with the words "Arbeit Macht Frei" (Work Will Set You Free) and made their way as a group to the execution wall, where they lit candles and prayed.

Janina Malec, a Polish survivor whose parents were killed at the execution wall, described her yearly visit as a "pilgrimage" and told the PAP news agency that "as long as I live I will come here."
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A flurry of national security moves and foreign policy outreach capped a hectic first week for President Donald Trump at the White House, giving Americans an initial look at how he intends to position the United States around the globe.

Refugee program temporarily halted

Setting a hard line on national security, President Donald Trump on Friday suspended the nation's refugee program for four months, aiming to keep "radical Islamic terrorists" out of the U.S.

"We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas," he said. "We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people."

The order imposes a 120-day suspension of the entire U.S. Refugee Admissions Program and a 90-day ban on all entry to the United States from countries with terrorism concerns.

The State Department said the three-month ban in the directive applied to Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen - all Muslim majority nations.

The order also halts entry to the U.S. by Syrian refugees until the president determines that changes to the refugee assistance program ensure that admitting them won't compromise national security.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations, or CAIR, said it would file a federal lawsuit Monday challenging the constitutionality of the executive order.

Trump has the authority to determine how many refugees are accepted annually, and he can suspend the program at any time.

During the past budget year, the U.S. accepted 84,995 refugees, including 12,587 people from Syria. President Barack Obama had set the refugee limit for this budget year at 110,000.

Trump, according to the executive order, plans to cut that to 50,000. The order says the government will continue to process refugee requests from people claiming religious persecution, "provided that the religion of the individual is a minority religion in the individual's country." That suggests it would allow the admission of Christians from Muslim-majority countries.

In an interview with Christian Broadcasting Network News, Trump said persecuted Christians would be given priority in applying for refugee status.

Trump's refugee action was strongly criticized by some Democrats.

"Tears are running down the cheeks of the Statue of Liberty tonight as a grand tradition of America, welcoming immigrants, that has existed since America was founded has been stomped upon," said Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York.

Mattis to submit readiness review

Trump traveled to the Pentagon, where he met with the Joint Chiefs of Staff and joined Defense Secretary Jim Mattis for the signing of an executive action to put in motion his plans to build up the nation's military.

Trump gave Mattis 30 days to conduct a "readiness" review and report back on steps that can be taken this year to improve conditions.

But Trump was also asked about more contentious issues, including his recent statements that torture "does work" in prying information out of terror suspects. Giving ground, he said he would defer to the views of Mattis, who has questioned the effectiveness of such practices.

"He has stated publicly that he does not necessarily believe in torture or waterboarding, or however you want to define it," Trump said. "I don't necessarily agree. But I would tell you that he will override because I'm giving him that power. He's an expert."

British PM May reaffirms relations

In Trump's first meeting with a visiting foreign leader - British Prime Minister Theresa May - since taking office, Trump reaffirmed the United States' "special relationship" with Great Britain.

As Britain prepares to exit the European Union, May was eager to reaffirm that relationship and seek a bilateral trade agreement, but cautioned Trump about his willingness to disparage NATO.

During the news conference with May, Trump was asked if he was considering lifting U.S. sanctions against Russia. But he was noncommittal.

Obama's administration and the European Union slapped Moscow with sanctions for its annexation of Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula and support for a pro-Russia insurgency in eastern Ukraine. Relations have plunged to post-Cold War lows over Ukraine, Putin's backing of Syrian President Bashar Assad and allegations of Russian meddling in the U.S. elections.

May, for her part, said the United Kingdom supports continuing the sanctions.

Trump is expected on Saturday to speak by phone with Russian President Vladimir Putin. One topic that might come up on the call is the fate of Austin Tice, a freelance journalist who disappeared in Syria in 2012.

Trump might ask Putin for help in pressuring Assad to release Tice, according to an official briefed on the matter. Syria has never acknowledged holding him, but Trump has been considering whether to drop support for the Syrian opposition.

Trump, Prieto hold discussions

Trump held firm Friday on another controversy - trade and illegal immigration from Mexico.

Trump and President Enrique Pena Nieto of Mexico spoke by telephone for an hour Friday and agreed to proceed with negotiations on a range of bilateral issues, both leaders said.

The presidents made an effort to say that the call had been productive, implying that tensions had cooled, but they stood their ground on their positions, with no suggestion the conversation had resolved their disagreement over fundamental issues, most notably the payment for construction of a wall between the United States and Mexico.

Trump reaffirmed his belief that Mexico has "outnegotiated and beat us to a pulp" on trade - and that would change.

"We're no longer going to be the country that doesn't know what it's doing," he said day after the Mexican leader canceled his visit to Washington in response to Trump's plans to build a border wall and have Mexico pay for it.

Calls scheduledwith world leaders

In addition to Putin, the White House said Trump will speak separately Saturday with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Francois Hollande.

This story contains material from the New York Times and Washington Post.
The state's highest court on Friday ruled against University of Texas System Regent Wallace Hall in his years-long battle to access confidential student records, putting an end to a contentious legal fight with System Chancellor William McRaven.

The Texas Supreme Court's decision that McRaven could withhold the documents marks the end of a legal saga involving Hall and the chancellor that originated with an investigation into admissions practices at the state's flagship university.

Justice John Devine delivered the affirming opinion of the court Friday, writing that Hall is "at the mercy of the Chancellor's discretionary legal determination."

"We are not unsympathetic to Hall's plight, however," Devine wrote. "He seeks information to educate himself and his fellow regents about issues of undeniable importance to the institution."

The decision by the court was unanimous, with four justices writing concurring opinions.

Battle sparked furor

Top University of Texas at Austin leaders in recent years admitted under-qualified students after high-profile alumni and influential lawmakers wrote recommendation letters on their behalf. Former UT President Bill Powers was among the administrators who flagged students' applications for further review after receiving the letters, according to a 2015 investigation. The probe pushed by Hall and other regents resulted in changes to the university's admissions practices.

The investigation and accusations surrounding the popular Powers sparked a furor among alumni and divided the board of regents. At one point, Texas House Speaker Joe Straus convened a committee to investigate Hall's actions.

A Travis County grand jury declined to indict Hall in 2015, but issued a four-page report recommending his removal from the board of regents. The grand jury was asked to examine whether Hall should be indicted for abuse of official capacity, misuse of official information or official oppression for conducting his own private investigation, which included a massive records request, into the administration of Powers.

The uncovered admission practices, which took place between 2009 and 2014, surfaced anew when the Texas Supreme Court heard oral arguments earlier this month in the case to decide whether Hall could view unredacted documents that led to the investigators' findings and the revised admissions protocols. Hall, a Dallas businessman whose tenure as regent will expire next month, sued McRaven in 2015 to gain access the information.

In Friday's decision, the court found that Hall may proceed only if McRaven's actions in withholding the records were without the state's authority.

"(McRaven) was not without legal authority in making that determination," the ruling said. "Nor was he without authority in redacting information once he made the legal conclusion. The Board instructed him to redact information he determined protected under FERPA, and he did just that."

New regents named

In a statement issued Friday morning, McRaven said he was pleased that the courts confirmed that his actions complied with the authority granted to him by the Board of Regents.

"I understand that it is important for a governing board to have access to certain information to perform its duties, but I must also ensure that The University of Texas System strictly complies with privacy requirements created by state and federal law," he said.

Hall and his attorney did not return requests for comment Friday.

The lawsuit will likely be the finale in Hall's tenure as system regent.

Gov. Greg Abbott on Monday announced the appointment of three new regents - Port of Houston Authority Chairwoman Janiece Longoria, former senator Kevin Eltife, and McCombs Partners CEO Rad Weaver. He did not reappoint Hall, who originally was named to the board by former Gov. Rick Perry in 2011. Hall's tenure as a regent will expire when the state Senate formally approves the new additions to the board.
By all means, build a wall on the border, but don't make Mexico pay for it.

It was a great - and by great I mean effective, not noble or heroic - applause line from then-candidate Trump on the campaign trail. Audiences loved it.But the campaign is over, and so is fun time. If the wall is worth having, it's worth paying for.

On Thursday morning, Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto abruptly cancelled his planned meeting with Donald Trump because the American president gave him no choice.

Pena Nieto was willing to go ahead with the meeting, despite the fact Trump had signed an executive order commencing work on a wall. But then in an interview Trump said that if Pena Nieto wasn't willing to commit Mexico to paying for the wall, he shouldn't bother coming. What else could Pena Nieto do?

The Greek historian Thucydides argued that countries go to war for three reasons: honor, fear and interest. He put honor first, and yet that is probably the least appreciated aspect of foreign policy today. Historian Donald Kagan, in his essay "Honor, Interest, Nation-State," recounts how since antiquity, nations have put honor ahead of interest.

"On countless occasions," he wrote, "states have acted to defend or foster a collection of beliefs and feelings that ran counter to their practical interests and have placed their security at risk, persisting in their course even when the costs were high and the danger was evident."

Americans instinctively understand this when our own honor is at stake. The rallying cry during the Barbary Wars, "Millions for defense, but not one cent for tribute," has almost become part of the national creed. I am no fan of Karl Marx, but he was surely right when he observed that "shame is a kind of anger turned in on itself. And if a whole nation were to feel ashamed it would be like a lion recoiling in order to spring."

Both the first and second world wars cannot be properly understood without taking the role national honor plays in foreign affairs. Similarly, Vladimir Putin's constant testing of the West only makes sense when you take into account the despot's core conviction that the fall of the Soviet Union was a blow to Russian prestige and honor.

Now, I don't think a war with Mexico is in the cards, even if the Trump administration were to figure out a way to get Mexico to foot the bill for a border wall. But forcing them to pay for it would be a punitive and gratuitous act of humiliation. Expecting a democratically elected president of a sovereign and allied nation to, in effect, grovel to the United States is the equivalent of asking him to drink poison.

Across Mexico, the wall itself is despised as an insult. That's too bad. And while I don't think we need some visible-from-space Great Wall of American Greatness stretching from the Atlantic to the Pacific, America has every right to secure its borders in any way it sees fit. But asking Mexico to pay for it literally adds injury to insult. In economic terms there's little difference between asking them to pay for it and forcing them to build it themselves.

No wonder virtually every sector of Mexican society sees the demand as an "announcement of a humiliation," in the words of Mexican political analyst Jesus Silva-Herzog Marquez. The former head of the Mexican Party of the Democratic Revolution (PRD) described the demand as spitting in the face of Agustin Basave Benitez, the foreign minister who set up the presidential meeting.

Trump insists that he wants a good relationship with Mexico and that a wall would be a "win-win" for the two countries. Maybe. But Trump's win-win calculus is based upon an analysis of simple national interests. A wall would, Trump argues, curtail drug-trafficking and stop the flow of Central American immigrants through Mexico.

That's the case Trump wanted to make at his presidential meeting. And, again, he might be right. But nations don't just act on their interests; they act on their honor. And shouting "You'll pay!" is a surefire way of guaranteeing no one will hear anything else.

Goldberg is an editor-at-large of National Review Online and a visiting fellow at the American Enterprise Institute.
A wanted Cabool man was arrested Friday night in Howell County, the Missouri State Highway Patrol said.

Jason K. Loman, 38, was sought on a felony Texas County warrant for driving under the influence  liquor and an Adair County warranting charging him with failing to appear on a resist/interfere with an arrest charge .

He was taken to the Texas County Jail and held without bond.
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Liaoning and her escorts. (Photo : PLAN)

A widespread change of command in the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) has seen younger admirals take over command of the three fleets comprising China's navy at the start of the year.



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Vice Admiral Wang Hai, former Deputy Commander of the PLAN, was promoted to Commander of the South Sea Fleet.



The fleet's former commander, Vice Admiral Shen Jinlong, was appointed Commander of the entire PLAN.



Rear Admiral Zhang Wendan, former Deputy Chief of Staff of the Southern Theater Command, is now the Commander of the North Sea Fleet.



The former fleet commander, Vice Admiral Yuan Yubai, was promoted commander of the Southern Theater Command.



Rear Admiral Wei Gang, former Deputy Commander and Chief of Staff of the Southern Theater Command, was promoted to Commander of the East Sea Fleet.



The former fleet commander, Vice Admiral Su Zhiqian, was promoted to Deputy Commander of the PLAN.



The change of commanders of the three navy fleets took military circles by surprise and seems to indicate moves by Chinese President Xi Jinping to cement his control over the PLA and its armed services before the 19th Annual Congress of the Communist Party of China this autumn.



The reshuffle of PLAN senior officers was unique in that theater-level leaders were appointed across regions.



Admiral Wang served in the South Sea Fleet for a long time and his return to the fleet demonstrates the strategic position of South Sea Fleet in the current strategic situation and that its commander should be someone with rich experience. He was also the first commander of a PLAN aircraft carrier battle group.



Admiral Zhang served in the South Sea Fleet for a long time, and was the fleet's Deputy Chief of Staff, Chief of Staff and Deputy Commander.



Admiral Wei was Commander of the North Sea Fleet's Lvshun naval base, Chief of Staff and Deputy Commander of the Fleet and head of the PLAN's logistics department.


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Giraffas, one the largest restaurant companies in Brazil, has announced a partnership with Humane Society International to transition to exclusively cage-free eggs in its supply chain. Giraffas, which operates more than 400 restaurants, has committed to being 100 percent cage-free by 2025.

Fernanda Vieira, corporate policy and program manager for HSI Farm Animals in Brazil, stated: Were happy to work with Giraffas to improve animal welfare in its supply chain. Consumers in Brazil care about the way animals are treated in food production, and Giraffas new cage-free egg policy will improve the lives of thousands egg-laying hens in the country.

Support our efforts to improve life for animals on farms.

In its statement, Giraffas stated: Were among the sectors leaders, as we always establish a commitment to quality and satisfaction, both to our direct consumers as well as our supply chain. Certainly, focusing our efforts on guaranteeing animal welfare is also part of our business plan.

Egg-laying hens are typically confined for their whole lives in wire battery cages, so small that the hens cannot even fully stretch their wings. Both common sense and science agree that virtually immobilizing animals for their entire lives causes mental distress and significant physical pain.

The use of conventional battery cages for laying hens is banned or being phased out under laws or regulations throughout the EU, in five U.S. states and in New Zealand and Bhutan. Officials in the majority of states in India, the worlds third largest egg producer, have declared that the use of battery cages violates the countrys animal welfare legislation, and the country is debating a national ban.

Giraffas joins other leading food manufacturers and corporations that have also committed to switching to exclusively cage-free eggs in Brazil and throughout Latin America, including Unilever, which has committed to a global cage-free egg supply chain by 2020, and Nestle, the largest food company in the world. After working with HSI, Burger King and Arcos Dorados, which operates McDonalds in Brazil and 19 other countries in the region, committed to switching to 100 percent cage-free eggs, as did other leading restaurant operators, totaling thousands of restaurants in Brazil and Latin America alone. Compass Group (GRSA in Brazil) and Sodexo, both leading food service providers in the country, announced a global cage-free policy in partnership with HSI. Alsea, the largest restaurant operator in Latin America and Spain, and Grupo Bimbo, the worlds largest bakery company, announced cage-free egg policies after several years of talks with HSI specialists. Other leading corporations like Cargill, IMC, BFFC, Grupo Trigo, AccorHotels, Intercontinental Hotels Group, Subway, Marriott International and Hilton Worldwide have also pledged to go cage-free in Brazil. Take action and donate now to help.

Media contact: Fernanda Vieira, fvieira@hsi.org, 11 9 8905 3848
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has reaffirmed Canada's commitment to welcoming refugees amid U.S. President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown.

"To those fleeing persecution, terror & war, Canadians will welcome you, regardless of your faith," Trudeau wrote on Twitter on Saturday. "Diversity is our strength."

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Canada resettled about 39,000 refugees from Syria between December 2015 and December 2016.

To those fleeing persecution, terror & war, Canadians will welcome you, regardless of your faith. Diversity is our strength #WelcomeToCanada  Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) January 28, 2017

President Trump signed an executive order on Friday to bar entry to the U.S. to anyone from seven Muslim-majority countries: Syria, Yemen, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, and Sudan. The order indefinitely bans Syrian refugees from resettling in the U.S. and shuts down the country's entire refugee program for 120 days.

Refugees and immigrants were turned away or detained on Friday night, as American airports scrambled to adjust to the new policy.

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Late on Saturday a federal judge reversed parts of Trump's order and allowed those that were being detained to enter the country.

I am establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America," Trump said. "We dont want them here.

Not a single American has been killed by a terrorist from those countries since 1975.

Also on HuffPost
LEON NEAL via Getty Images

Next Wednesday MPs will be voting on what is likely to be the political question of my lifetime - whether to start the process by which the UK comes out of the European Union and Single Market.

The vote next week is on the principle of the Bill. It's not about specific amendments which will be debated at Committee stage the week after - but about whether we should vote to start the process of leaving the EU on the terms set out by the Prime Minister in her speech last week.

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Along with 18 other Labour backbenchers, I have tabled an amendment which sets out the key reason as to why I believe there are fundamental problems with the Government's approach.

I might be accused of being a democracy denier but I can't sign up unconditionally to the UK leaving the European Union and the Single Market.

Whilst a narrow majority of those who took part in the referendum voted to leave the EU, the country has never been asked about leaving the Single Market and the European Economic Area (EEA).

The words Single Market weren't on the ballot paper. I can barely remember hearing the phrase "customs union" before the referendum - and yet we were fed a daily pack of lies about money which would automatically become available for the NHS, Turkey joining the EU and the "swarms" of refugees heading for our shores.

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Leave campaigner after leave campaigner took to the airwaves to say this wasn't about leaving the Single Market. Page 72 of the Conservative manifesto said they would "safeguard British interests in the Single Market" and then last week, an unelected Prime Minister announces she is pulling us out of the world's largest trading bloc.

That might be what democracy means to some, but it is not what it means to me.

I acknowledge the result of the referendum but don't expect me to respect the process which led to it.

The British people, or at least MPs in the British Parliament, must have a say on whether we leave the Single Market.

Triggering Article 50 is one thing, pulling us out of the Single Market is another - but that is precisely what Theresa May wants to do.

Article 127 of the EEA Agreement sets out a process by which a country wishing to leave the Single Market can notify its intention to do so in writing, giving 12 months' notice. There should be as much scrutiny on this notification as there is on Article 50.

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Our democracy didn't start or end on 23 June and we mustn't pretend that it did.

I can't stand by and watch big firms, which employ many of my constituents, announce they are scaling down operations here in favour of countries such as France or Germany - HSBC, UBS, Lloyds of London.

I fear for those whose jobs may be directly affected but I am equally worried about the wider impact on the economy. Talk to developers and they will tell you property prices are stagnating in central London - good some might say - but I fear for anyone who finds themselves in negative equity.

I fear for my home town of Swindon - a town with a massive Honda plant - an industry which has a supply chain which reaches across Europe. The ease with which businesses trade with Europe, the ease with which they sell to European consumers is threatened and nothing the Prime Minister has said reassures me about how she will, to quote the Tory manifesto, "safeguard British interests in the Single Market".

I feel like I am watching a slow motion car crash and I have to try to do something about it.

If my amendment is selected for debate, I will vote for my amendment. Irrespective of whether that happens or not, I will vote against triggering Article 50.

Nothing I have heard from the Prime Minister gives me the reassurance I would need to embark on the path of leaving the EU and the Single Market. That is where this Government wants to take us and I can't see how this is in the national interest.

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President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump, along with their son Barron, walk in their inaugural parade on Jan. 20, 2017 in Washington, DC. Donald Trump was sworn-in as the 45th President of the United States. (Photo : Getty Images/Kevin Dietsch - Pool)

United States president Donald Trump, 70, called the acts of comedians making fun of his youngest son as a disgrace. He mentioned both NBC and its late-night show "Saturday Night Live," in which Alec Baldwin, 58, impersonates him.



"A person from 'Saturday Night Live' was terrible, for them to attack, for NBC to attack my 10-year-old son," Trump told Fox News referring to Barron Trump, 10. "It's a disgrace. It's not an easy thing for him. Believe me."



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Baldwin's impersonation of the president started during the campaign period. For the president, "Saturday Night Live" is a "failing show" and "not funny" and the actor is a "disaster" and "terrible" on the show.



Over the weekend, "Saturday Night Live" writer Katie Rich, 33, was attacked on social media for joking through her personal Twitter handle that Barron is the "country's first homeschool shooter." She has since deleted both her Twitter post and page.



Rich has been with the late night show on NBC for about three years and exclusively worked on the bogus newscast "Weekend Update." She has been suspended indefinitely after the tweet, Deadline reported.



Rich was not the only one who was slammed for her Barron joke. Actress Julie Bowen, 46, of ABC's "Modern Family" sitcom is currently under fire for making jokes about the president's son. Bowen commented on social media that Barron was on his Gameboy during the swearing-in ceremony of his father on Jan. 20.



I think Barron is on his Gameboy. Can't say I can blame him.

A photo posted by Julie Bowen (@itsjuliebowen) on Jan 20, 2017 at 8:41am PST







People slammed Bowen on Twitter for going after a boy, noting that former President Barack Obama's daughters Malia Obama and Sasha Obama were regarded as off-limits when their father was in office. Netizens considered Bowen's joke as poor taste.



Bowen reasoned that she was trying to keep it light. Being a mother herself, she claimed she understands that kids would be a "horror" at public events. However, some did not buy her reasons and considered her being a mother even worse.



For some, Barron did great at sitting still for hours during the Inauguration Day. Other people declared they will not watch "Modern Family" again.



Here is a video about Donald's family and cyberbullying:






By ALBERTO ARCE  Associated Press

SAN PEDRO SULA, Honduras -- This is a city besieged by crime in all its forms: gang violence, drug cartel killings and rampant extortion compounded by a fear of authorities.

Honduras is now among the most dangerous places on Earth. No other country matches its rate of 86 slayings per 100,000 inhabitants a year, according to a 2011 United Nations Report. That is roughly 20 times the U.S. homicide rate.

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WARNING: GRAPHIC IMAGES

And it's worse in San Pedro Sula, often cited as Honduras' most violent city, with a murder rate almost double the national average.

In this Wild West city, gangs such as the Mara Salvatrucha, also known as MS-13, operate with impunity. MS-13 was born in the 1980s among Central American-born inmates in the prisons of California and spread to Central America when members were deported back home by the U.S. They found fertile ground in Honduras and other countries with underfunded police forces and corrupt officials.

Hondurans say gangs have imposed an almost unchallenged reign of extortion, murder and drug trafficking on this city and others.

Mayor Juana Carlos Zuniga recognizes that San Pedro Sula is threatened by violence that authorities cannot control. And the city's location near Honduras' Atlantic coast and border with Guatemala have put it on key international drug trafficking routes.

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"As a local government we don't have the necessary instruments to fight the well-defined and identified violence derived from drug trafficking that overwhelms us," Zuniga told The Associated Press.

One night recently, the Catalino Rivas public hospital in San Pedro Sula could have been operating in a country at war.

There were not enough stretchers for the 19 wounded who arrived that night, and the people who brought them in had to shift the patients about. Pools of blood on the floor went unmopped.

Natalia Galdamez, the doctor on duty, received three patients with gunshot wounds. They said a gunman suddenly appeared and shot them without saying a word.

"It's tough to believe. This was a paid hit. We hear the same story all the time," Galdamez said.

Drug trafficking isn't the only source of San Pedro Sula's violence.

At a nearby taxi stand, a driver with 21 years of experience explained how each of the company's 35 cars has to pay $30 a month to a gang. He said the drivers have to pay the same amount in taxes to the government, but each year, not each month.

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"Who do you think has more power, the state or the criminals?" said the driver, who didn't want his name used for fear of reprisals.
Ten years ago mentioning Hitler and the Nazis in a political debate was considered hyperbolic and in poor taste. And rightly so. Today, it has become almost passe. No less than the President of the United States has accused the American intelligence agencies of behaving as if they were in Nazi Germany over "fake news leaks" in a tweet, for example.

And yet it seems that Mr Trump seems more determined than anybody to make comparisons to Nazi Germany apposite in the 21st Century. One of the executive orders he has signed in his frenzied first week in office was to require his administration to, "on a weekly basis, make public a comprehensive list of criminal actions committed by aliens and any jurisdiction that ignored or otherwise failed to honor any detainers with respect to such aliens."

So then: drill into the heads of the public the association between immigration and crime, ignoring context, such as the fact that immigrants are noticeably less likely to commit crimes and have lower rates of incarceration than native US citizens. Bully any local or state jurisdiction that refuses to indulge your fantasy by threatening to name and shame them - and, I presume before long, accuse them of being "un-American" and "un-patriotic". And lay the ground for scapegoating these "criminals" and their "traitor", "liberal" accomplices for any of your domestic policy failures on crime, social cohesion, and public order.

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So far, so good, but this is rather closer to Putin than Hitler. Not to worry, Mr Trump has us covered: increase the number of detention centres, for these "threats to national security", so we can fit all "illegals" in, irrespective of whether they are dangerous criminals or just kids trying to get an education.

Mr Trump was elected to the Office of President by promising the sun and the moon to a vast cohort of Americans that have been left behind by globalisation and who feel their very identities are under attack from a relentless "liberal culture war" to strip them of their "masculinity" and their conservative values. These people feel that they have been robbed of everything, and that only Mr Trump can rebuild America into a country where they can belong, by taking a hammer to "liberal economics" and liberal cultural sensibilities. They expect the maverick businessman to "shake things up".

The problem is that Mr Trump has little to no interest in the wellbeing of his base. He wants their electoral support, sure, but in a post-fact world and with a base that is clinically resistant to facts and evidence after decades of indoctrination from Fox News and conservative talk radio, their wellbeing and their political support bear almost no correlation. What is actually important is Mr Trump's image as the "man of the people", the man who has their back.

He will fail to deliver what he has promised. That much is certain. This is something his team knows, and something he himself knows and is not too troubled by. But for that failure to not affect his image, and thus the support of his base, any responsibility for those failures must be deflected away from his administration and towards... well, anyone else will do. But his base are already inclined to blame immigrants and liberals for everything, so those two groups will do just fine as scapegoats.

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The capital of Lithuania, Vilnius, is full of beautiful but touristy highlights. Where do the locals hang out? Where do they drink their coffee or tea and eat their lunch or dinner? When they're going about their day, or plan a special day out during their free time, what do they go to see, where do they go?

If you're curious about this and you're interested in a local's point of view of the city Vilnius, the second largest city in the Baltic States, check out Spotted by Locals: Vilnius.

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Vilnius has an abundant history, as this quote from one of our Spotters confirms, "Vilnius has a very old and beautiful legend about a dream of the Grand Duke Gediminas. The dream was about the iron wolf, which became the alternate city symbol." The old town of Vilnius has some beautiful historic architecture as well. Culture, art and history are very important things here, as shown by the large number of spots recommended in our Art and Culture category.

So, to give you a taste of Vilnius through the eyes of locals, here is a small selection of tips from our Vilnius city blog. And if you're ever traveling to another city, check to see if it's one of the 43 other cities locals provide tips for!
I recently blogged about the political climate, about staying focused on an issue, and not getting distracted by partisan political "religions" and finding a way of working together for the greater good. That greater good in my life is, of course, Less Cancer -- the goal of actually reducing the low-hanging, preventable incidences of cancer.

Cancer is something that has touched almost all of us personally.

We understand that Cancer is a large umbrella term, encompassing dozens of diseases; we also know that over 50% of all cancers are preventable.

The American Association for Cancer Research tells us in its cancer progress report that, "Policies, whether implemented by schools, workplaces, businesses, or government -- local, state, or federal -- work by helping to create environments that allow individuals to more easily adopt a lifestyle that promotes cancer prevention. Thus, it is imperative that everyone works together to develop and implement new, more efficient public education and policy initiatives to help reduce the burden of cancer further, in particular, the load from those cancers related to preventable causes."

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Cancer comes at us from all directions and only together can we reduce those many kinds of preventable cancer.

With the political climate focused on Corporatism and seemingly less focused on social good, now is the time for non-profits to join arms. Even organizations that might not seem to be aligned need to find common ground.

This is also true of legislators, where many good men and women do work on behalf of the public good.

So it is Less Cancer's job to make sure that increasing incidences of cancer are a consideration when shaping policy.

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I have had the honor to work with people like Rep. Steve Israel, who is about to retire, and who five years ago submitted the first National Cancer Prevention Day resolution at my request. He has joined in the fight for Less Cancer by several Democrats and Republicans, including Representative Charlie Dent and Co-Chairs of the United States Congressional Cancer Caucus Representative Debbie Dingell and Representative Tim Murphy.

We all have read tips and guidelines for healthy living from both experts and advocates, which is all well and good. But Less Cancer looks beyond lifestyle issues that may not seem related to cancer, such as drinking water quality.

Cancer, while primarily prevented through lifestyle, many times has powerful external environmental causes.

Preventable cancers frequently require policy change beyond education, as we have seen in Flint, Michigan, among other places in the country where people are unnecessarily exposed to harmful cancer-causing chemicals.

Less Cancer's board member Rob Bilott has been described by The New York Times as the "The Lawyer Who Became DuPont's Worst Nightmare". Rob has been working tirelessly on the issue of something referred to as PFOA, or as Dupont refers to it C8, which was used in the manufacturing of Teflon. The chemical can be found in drinking water and is in fact known to cause cancer.

This February 2, 2017, on Capitol Hill we will hear from Rob, and several other nationally recognized experts on drinking water, lifestyle and other environmental issues linked to cancer.

Long-standing Less Cancer board member, award-winning journalist Miles O'Brien will be moderating our Town Hall meeting.

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Tom Sherman, MD, Less Cancer's Chairman of the Board, will be presenting on a New Hampshire cancer cluster, where an increased number of Seacoast children have died from rhabdomyosarcoma, or RMS, a rare type of childhood cancer.



We are collaborating with teams from the University of Virginia and American University, which have established Continuing Education credits for both nurses and physicians.

Several other leading experts will be presenting from across the United States. We will even be offering free live streaming so that some of those who cannot make it in person will be able to receive credit online.

Less Cancer and its collaborators create these programs specifically because we are interested in reducing the incidences of cancer. We can do this because people pitch in with time, talent and treasure.

We are not funded by the likes of the tobacco or chemical industries, so we are dependent on the good efforts of individuals.

Many people, nonprofits, and politicians of all stripes make Less Cancer's vision of National Cancer Prevention Day a reality.

Together we can all make a difference, and now more than ever we must use our pioneering spirit to carve new territory for the goal of reducing incidences of cancer. The time is now for us all to pitch in.

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If you see what needs to be repaired and how to repair it,

then you have found a piece of the world that Gd has left for you to complete.

But if you only see what is wrong and how ugly it is,

then it is you yourself that needs repair.
By Elizabeth Jaikaran

Our communities are heavily stained with anti-Blackness. It's probably best to start off with that difficult and often denied truth. Many non-Black Americans of Color, who are largely immigrants, become quickly acquainted with the American brand of anti-Blackness upon their arrival to a country brimming with economic opportunities unheard of in the lands they left behind. The goal of achieving success in a new country is what arranges the first meeting between these new Americans and the face of anti-Blackness. To begin, the concept of success and achievement in America is a racialized one -- regardless of whether we would like to admit that. Success refers to not just the pursuit of financial stability, but the protection of their bodies.

In the quest for this success, new Americans look toward the ones who enjoy the most economic and social privileges that they hope to one day attain. This inquiry results in the quick realization that an emulation of the most privileged, or, a special brand of Imperialist Whiteness, is what will facilitate the materialization of success. This implicitly involves the co-opting of the widely purported national narrative, which both vilifies African-Americans and then dismisses their discontent with such vilification as a display of oversensitivity.

Non-Black People of Color (NBPOC) demonstrate anti-Blackness in a number of ways -- much of them tragically overt. One of the most problematic manifestations of this is through inequitable comparison -- that is, the undermining of key struggles within the Black community via the improper equating of their own experiences as minorities with those of African-Americans. This means that many NBPOCs fail to understand or sympathize with the fact that Black communities continue to battle disenfranchisement, simply because they have been able to achieve success as new Americans.

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What's stopping them? I came here with just twenty bucks in my pocket. Look at how I was able to work hard and achieve. It means that they fail to account for the fact that while they came here willingly, Black men, women and children came here in chains. It means that they dismiss discourse challenging the institutionally unfair treatment of African-Americans as "oversensitive" and "contentious" simply because they fail to see that the extremity of anti-Blackness is greater than the racism to which they are accustomed and, thus, erroneously equate as the same. Why are they so upset? People are prejudiced against us, but you don't see us acting that way. Centuries of historical context so clearly lacking in their quick dismissal.

To be abundantly clear: there is no comparison between the experiences of NBPOCs and the experiences of African-Americans. The former, while certainly abhorrent in its own right, is simply not as vicious as the latter. NBPOCs were not victims of the murderous institutions of slavery and Jim Crow. They never had to meet an America in which the best jobs a Black person could get -- even in the "enlightened" North -- were positions as janitors or shoe-shiners. They never had to meet an America in which Black people had curfews by which they had to be back in their homes. They never had to struggle to pick up the pieces of their humanity after a seemingly unending history of dehumanization. They never had to meet this America because of all of the physical, emotional and intellectual labor, of African-Americans that took place before their optimistic arrival to an America sporting a brand new face.

This inability to understand that their own experiences can never equate to this breadth of inherited trauma -- rooted in the understanding that this country has explicitly combatted Black existence -- results in their consequent inability to understand that the many privileges that they enjoy, including their willful blindness of the struggles of Black communities, are privileges that have been built on African-American backs. That is, it is African-Americans who carry NBPOCs on their shoulders. NBPOCs benefit, socially and otherwise, in insurmountable ways from Black movements. And for this, African-Americans are certainly owed immeasurable debts of gratitude.

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To depart from the great debts owed by immigrant NBPOCs for a moment, it is also pivotal to highlight the great debt that first-generation American NBPOCs owe to their African-American counterparts. First-generation Americans, as children of immigrants being the first to be born in the United States, face distinct and complex social issues because of their unique disposition of having one foot firmly planted in the country in which they were born, and the other firmly planted in the country(ies) of their parents'. As a result, much like their parents, who were faced with their own choices regarding emulation upon their immigration, first-generation NBPOCs often struggle with finding their social footing in the larger American landscape as they struggle to both integrate into that terrain and maintain connectedness with their individual cultural identities.

With respect to the larger American landscape, Black culture (music, dance and social semblances) has always served as a saving grace for first-generation American NBPOCs facing a choice between two Americas -- the America that their parents believed they must emulate for success and the America that was born from unfathomable struggle, thus much more welcoming to a generation of children who just always felt different. It is the face of America with which many minorities have always heavily identified, have felt most accepted, and, thus, some sense of belonging. In fact, Black representation in American media is often the first instance of minority representation in which NBPOCs see themselves represented as minorities in larger American culture. This representation also paves the way and opens the door for other minorities to be included in these sectors. Now, surely, Black culture is not simply something that is up for grabs by those who desire it. What is being referred to herein, however, is not unjust appropriation but, rather, the ability that Black culture has had as a dynamic social construct to communicate and uplift other marginalized communities. For this, first-generation NBPOCs owe great respect to the labors of generations of African-Americans as, without it, their complex disposition as children of immigrants would be exponentially more difficult.

As the date of this publication coalesces with the celebration of the birth of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., it would be remiss not to highlight that the renowned Civil Rights leader's work was not solely comprised of the deliverance of his "I Have a Dream" speech, in which racial harmony is theorized. By the standards of today's standing narratives that devalue national discourse on hot-button social issues, and to which many NBPOCs subscribe, Dr. King was a radical. He consistently called for the disruption of the status quo and for the rejection of anything less than full enfranchisement and institutional respect. The revisionist profile of Dr. King that is espoused today is not the full picture. That incomplete picture suggests that the leaps of social progress that African-Americans have achieved are entirely due to complacency and flowery words.

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The truth, however, is that the Civil Rights Movement was successful because of the very means of protest and vocal displeasure that are so often looked down upon today. It is essential for NBPOCs to understand this -- that freedom has never been won by way of structured diplomacy. The achievement of their humanity was not a negotiation but a bloody war. The blood of African-Americans is what has cultivated America to be of a nature that allows it to welcome immigrating minorities.

Of further note, Dr. King also understood and spoke about the importance of working with allies in other disenfranchised communities, for both their collective and individual advancement. Here are just a few ways NBPOCs can be better allies to their African-American countrymen.

1. Reject the improper comparison of non-Black experiences with Black experiences.

Understand the dynamics of relative privilege and that African-Americans continue to suffer from the long-lasting impacts of state-espoused institutions that aimed to keep them disenfranchised. Understand the gravity of a long history of inaccessible education, financial opportunity and participation in government.

2. Show up for Black interests.

African-Americans undoubtedly show up in great numbers for the interests of others. It is crucial that this is reciprocated. Now, this does not mean being overly vocal. It is important to remember that there are certain things that NBPOCs cannot speak on and should be left for Black voices. However, showing up can mean joining them in protest, donating to movements like Black Lives Matter, and, at the absolute very least, refraining from the devaluation of existing movements as "unnecessary" just because one does not fully understand them. This is not passive involvement. This is valuable.

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3. Educate one another.

With respect to the majority of non-Black immigrant communities, one central underpinning for their inability to empathize with the struggles of African-Americans is the basic fact that they never learned about American history in their home countries. As a result, they faultily believe that movements which aim to uplift and advance Black communities emerge out of a vacuum. Explain slavery. Explain Jim Crow. Explain segregation. Explain public hangings and the disproportionate imprisonment of Black men after abolition. Provide them with that education. The result? Maybe they will finally be able to understand how this robust and historical disenfranchisement has resulted in current disenfranchisement.

By taking the aforementioned initiatives, NBPOCs can begin to emulate the gratitude that they owe to generations of African-Americans, who have worked to make the United States the kind of country in which minority immigrants may see as an opportunity for asylum and/or opportunity. They can begin to emulate the gratitude that is owed for their ability to view America as a perfect and unblemished union, all because they have arrived at a time when some of the greatest battles have already been fought by their Black countrymen. Today -- as much as any other day -- is a great time to commence that reflective inquiry and to introspect upon how to be a better ally in the battles that still remain to be fought.

***

Elizabeth Jaikaran is a freelance writer based in New York. She graduated from The City College of New York with her B.A. in 2012, and from New York University School of Law in 2016. She is interested in theories of gender politics and enjoys exploring the intersection of international law and social consciousness. When she's not writing, she enjoys celebrating small joys with her friends and binge watching juicy serial dramas with her husband. Her first book, "Trauma," will be published by Shanti Arts in 2017.
A serial about two artists with incurable neurological disease sharing fear, frustration and friendship as they push to complete the most rewarding creative work of their careers.



Read Episode Thirty-Four: Finished!. Or, start at the beginning: An Illness's Introduction. Find all episodes here.

After the thrill of seeing Hadley's murals on the walls of the Montana State Capital building, coming home to my novel that was growing roots in a file on my laptop was hard. The disappointment I felt in myself was directly proportional to the admiration I felt for Hadley. It was impossible not to compare our trajectories. Hadley, plagued as she'd been with serious health issues all her life, had turned out many notable projects in her 38 years, culminating in a historic, grand-scale commission. Here I was, on the verge of 60, and I hadn't managed to get Dream House, the project that most mattered to me, out into the world. I'd witnessed Hadley's deep satisfaction, unveiling the strongest and most celebrated work of her life. I wanted that!

The week following my trip to Montana, I attended a rousing orchestral performance. I found myself imagining a violinist playing her instrument in her room for years on end with no clear prospect of ever being heard. An absurd notion, as music is meant to be listened to. We don't think of writing as a performing art. But like musicians, writers work assiduoaulsy to craft an affecting expression of their ideas and stories in order to touch an audience with their words. Writers, I glumly mused as the orchestra played on, can write for years without having their work read.

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Away doom and gloom! I couldn't let my discouragement quash my determination. I began making inquiries about self-publishing. I had no well-considered bias against this route to publication; I just didn't feel I had the stamina it takes to make it happen. No sooner had I begun my research, than an email popped up that made my heart gallop. Jay, my Dream House editor, had a colleague who was interested in publishing the book.

It was tempting to get carried away by the excitement of this news. But I didn't share it even with my husband, Lewis, because the only thing worse than riding the rollercoaster of publication hopefulness that had begun four years earlier was taking those closest to me along for the ride. Two weeks after Hadley's mural unveiling, in a state of suspended belief, I drove downtown to meet with Lisa McGuinness, publisher at Yellow Pear Press. We hit it off and right then and there, nailed down details and deadlines to meet for publishing in the fall, November 2015.

Within eight weeks of my meeting with Lisa, my novel had a cover and I was proofreading the galleys. Every week, I let the new reality sink in a little more, but I still felt unable to celebrate. In part, this was because publishing had been a dream for so long that it felt too good to be true. Also, with many hands involved in its production, I fretted about whether the physical book would have the qualities I hoped for. And then there was the obvious: apprehension about how the novel would be received.

Another reason I felt excitement bubbling up only at discreet moments was not related to anxieties about my novel, but rather, what was happening in my day-to-day, i.e., life, which goes on despite the alternate realities our work sometimes constructs for us. Sylvia, after a short remission, was not winning her fight with cancer. The July ablation she'd had on the small lesion on her liver appeared to trigger an inflammatory response, resulting in a new proliferation of cancer cells. By February, she was housebound, except when she needed to see her doctor, and was spending much of her days sleeping. One Saturday evening in mid-March, the water heater on the second floor of her house began leaking through the floor. The plumber who came on Monday used a blowtorch too close to a fire sprinkler in the water heater closet, setting off a monsoon in the house. Sylvia's daughter, Meredith, home at the time, called 911 and me. Then, she led her bathrobed mother down into the street and helped her and their dog into their parked car. When I arrived, there was mayhem: two fire trucks, water everywhere, my stunned, sliver of a friend sitting in the car out front. I drove her to my house and set her up in bed.

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Sylvia, her husband Peter, Meredith, and their Golden Retriever stayed with us for a week while their house dried out. It was profoundly affecting to witness the tender, complicated care Peter and Meredith gave Sylvia, and to have one of my dearest friends under my roof at the end of her life. When she was sleeping, I tried to carry on with the daily tasks that were moving my book forward, but my awareness of Sylvia's ephemerality kept me in the present moment. I didn't want to miss something important. I savored the times she asked me to help shift her tiny frame in the bed, each brief conversation we shared. "I don't want to keep going like this," she told me one day. We talked about what's within a patient's power when they are ready to stop suffering and say goodbye. What could be more important, and yet how many times in life do we get the chance to talk this way with someone we love? One morning when we were chatting, she looked deep in thought for a few moments and I braced myself for something difficult. Finally, she said, "I probably won't be able to eat it, but just in case, can you save me some of the Bolognese sauce you made for dinner?" She laughed. She was such a foodie. She'd been eating Gerber baby arrowroot biscuits, mashed potatoes and ground chicken for days; no wonder she craved some zest!

That week, I barely thought about Parkinson's, which felt like a mere annoyance. But I thought a lot about what awaits me and everyone close to me at the end of our lives. During Sylvia's stay, I talked to Hadley and she recalled her last days with her stepfather, Charlie. Our conversation about dying was disorienting, as if I were looking through a camera lens at the four of us -- Hadley, Sylvia, Charlie, and myself -- trying to adjust the focal length to correspond with our (unspoken) perceptions of where we were on the timelines of our lives.

In late March, I sat on Sylvia's bed in the bright California sunshine streaming through the windows. She was waifish, every bone explicit. Always meticulously groomed, she worried aloud about how long her fingernails had grown and I asked her if she'd like me to cut them. Sylvia was a private person, and I felt honored when she said yes. As I held each of her cool, delicate fingers in my hand and clipped, I took my time, relishing the intimacy of this simple task, taking it in as Sylvia's last gift to me. She died several days later with Peter and Meredith by her side.

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Winter and spring were a blur of proofreading the Dream House galleys -- every word and punctuation mark, six times (by the time the book went to print, I probably could've told you to pick a word, any word, and I would've been able to turn to the page where it was written)--and pulling together promotional material at the behest of the publicist. Among other things, this included setting up an author Facebook page and a website, which I was lucky enough to have our son, Tobias, design. I learned how to describe the book in as few, hopefully enticing, phrases as possible: "An architect of houses searching for home," "...how we shape and are shaped by our houses," "What makes a house feel like home?" As tedious as the production period was at times, after years of editing Dream House with nothing but hope and encouragement to keep me motivated, I gobbled up the tasks before me, knowing that there would be a monumental payoff. Finally, I was able to put to bed all my sad feelings that are best described by the old question, "If a tree falls in a forest and no one is there to hear it, does it make a sound?"

In July, Lisa met me for lunch to present my printed book. When she passed it across the table, I was unprepared for the emotional rush that sent me diving for my napkin to brush away tears. To me, the book was an exquisite object. The quiet but evocative jacket featuring an image of the Maine house where I was raised perfectly captures the tone and landscape of the novel; the size and weight of the book is modest but inviting. I hadn't dared to hope the physical embodiment of my story and the story itself, in which I explored everything that most moved me: space and architecture, love and motherhood, pain and healing, ocean, sky and trees, would be so well integrated, so...right.

A week before the book's publishing date, in late October 2015, we threw a party. I dubbed it the "If not now, when?" party. I'd been casting about for an excuse to have a very big party for years and a book event seemed more fun than waiting for a milestone birthday, which, especially when you have a progressive, degenerative disease, is not necessarily a cause for celebration. The party was a blast. Local friends and my neurologist came. Friends from the other coast as well as our daughter Elena, my sisters, their husbands and some of their offspring flew in. Tobias's band played and I danced with the freewheeling women in my writing group. Lisa set up a bookselling table and friends generously stood in line to purchase books and have me sign them. While turning my Sharpie loose on book after book, it finally became real to me: my book!

Did I have Parkinson's? Not that night! I spoke into a microphone for the first time in my life. I was nervous, since presenting to groups has never been easy for me, but being in that crowd of well-wishers was like soaking in a warm bath.



From November through April, I talked about Dream House in the west and in New England at bookstores, private parties, newspaper and radio interviews, seven book groups and an architecture school. Awesome family and friends from around the country facilitated opportunities for me to speak and sell books. Mindful of my energy's ebb and flow, I only scheduled events where I knew people who would fill the chairs.



I never stopped feeling nervous when approaching the podium, afraid I'd go blank in the middle of a thought. I did a couple of times, but managed to recover well enough. After describing the inspirations for the novel, I would read a couple of passages and feel my anxiety drop away. Speaking the words I'd written, I re-experienced the passion I'd felt when I started the book years ago. It was powerful to feel I was engaging my listeners' emotions and imagination, not by selling plot or drama but simply through my choice and arrangement of words.

Finally, I was out of my room, playing my music. People were listening.



I didn't push much beyond my limitations to publicize Dream House, so the post-publication experience was entirely positive. Even at the event in my hometown, 3000 miles away, where I feared God-knows-who would surface to scold me with a wagging finger for airing my family's troubles, people were warm, inquisitive and even a little proud of their homie author. In addition to old family friends I hadn't seen in decades, two of my first childhood girlfriends were in that room, as well as my first love; their presence added a distracting tenderness to the occasion. Everywhere I went, I filled with gratitude for people's inquisitiveness, enthusiasm, and their persistent pursuit of literature.

That Lewis was the best roadie ever made all the difference. It was as if he'd read a manual on how to support your Parkie wife while she's on a book tour. He hefted my carryon into the overhead bin. Took my hand in the airport when he saw my leg dragging. Schlepped boxes of books and ran peoples' credit cards at private events. While at our Airbnb, he dashed to the market for groceries, made me coffee every morning and, in the evenings before my book talks, a mini margarita to boost my confidence. (Trust me; it works.) Each day, he rode a bike for an hour and a half but insisted he wasn't too tired to go back out and take a three mile walk with me, because he knows that exercise is what keeps my body from shutting down altogether. He was excited to greet the wonderful old friends who came out of the woodwork. Throughout the "season of Dream House," Lewis expressed no complaints. He had lost his partner in architecture years before, but was now proud to crow about her book to anyone who'd listen. He was thrilled for me, but also, like many partners of those with debilitating conditions, he understands the importance of turning up the light on life's joyful passages and significant accomplishments.

So, how did it feel to finally be published at 60? Besides joy, another feeling: relief when I finished my book tour. Taking stock of my Parkinson's progression, I had a sense that publication came not a moment -- or at least year -- too soon. Also a relief was to be done with the story that had been parked in my brain like a giant RV full of claustrophobic family members, and to clear out my cabinet filled with paper drafts, some dating back to the late 20th century. I could move on.
So now it's clear: rather than attempt any sort of policy research or political discourse, Trump has chosen Blitzkrieg. The newly installed president had barely taken his hand off the Bible but he began to implement his rally script by executive order.



The latest of these, halting the refugee resettlement program and screening out Muslims from future admissions, will result in innocent lost lives. Other stab-in-the-dark policies may turn out to be catastrophic for America, but tactically this is smart. It means that opposition groups are drowning each other out. Pipeline opponents, reproductive rights advocates, First Amendment defenders, science advocates, environmentalists, international relations experts, economists, and friends of refugees and immigrants are all trying to make themselves heard at the same time.

Has there ever been a more important moment to come together? Five years ago in these pages I called for a Good Faith Alliance. In many ways we have done that, but as the last election showed, it is far from complete. Look at this list:



It's from the front page of the Democratic National Committee. It reaches out to African Americans, Americans with Disabilities, Latinos, Native Americans, LGBT ... all the way to "young people and students," yet it implicitly excludes the white working class. That's a huge mistake. As Mark Lilla wrote in the New York Times, "If you are going to mention groups in America, you had better mention all of them. If you don't, those left out will notice and feel excluded."

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But it's not really a matter of writing a longer list. For resistance to succeed, we not only have to come together in a Good Faith Alliance, we have to be willing to focus on the most urgent causes for the greatest number of people, even if those don't happen to be closest to our hearts. I'm not saying we should throw refugees to the wolves -- no one care more about refugees than me. I'm saying we need to support one another's causes and join forces in the broadest possible front.
After the death of more than 300 refugees -- most from Eritrea -- when a boat carrying migrants sank near Lampedusa, Italy, Eritrean refugees living in camps in northern Ethiopia gathered to memorialize their compatriots.

Sadly, violence broke out during the memorial in two camps. At least one person was killed and some, including children, were injured.

Most people are unaware of the Eritrean refugee crisis. This small nation (a population under 6 million) is among the highest refugee-producing nations in the world. It is estimated that 2 million Eritreans live as refugees globally.

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Decades of instability in Eritrea have led to the current situation. Many refugees have experienced horrific treatment, first at the hands of their government, then on the long, dangerous journey to escape. Up to 3,000 flee to Sudan or Ethiopia each month.

The Eritrean government's list of human rights violations is long: arbitrary arrest and detention, torture, forced labor, severe restrictions on freedom of expression, and religious persecution. Many refugees are young men fleeing forced and indefinite conscription into the military.

The Center for Victims of Torture recently began providing mental health care to Eritrean refugees in three camps in northern Ethiopia. We have over a decade's experience working in refugee camps and post-conflict countries. So we know what it is like to work in a situation where the need for our services overwhelms our ability to provide them.

But we have been surprised by the severe lack of basic services available in the camps, including employment and education.

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Our staff visited a reception center in Endabaguna, Ethiopia. The center, intended to provide shelter for just a few days while people are registered as refugees and assigned space at a camp, ends up housing people for up to four months, especially the large numbers of youth under 18 who cross the border on their own, as there are limited space and resources in existing refugee camps.

The conditions of the compound for unaccompanied boys were especially bleak. Boys sleep in approximately 30 feet by 30 feet concrete rooms on foam mattresses spread out on the hard floor. There is no electricity, no mosquito nets. There is one social worker to address the needs of the hundreds of clients in the center at any given time. There are no organized activities, education, or recreational equipment of any kind available to these young people. Other than a very limited health clinic and basic provisions, there are essentially no services of any kind. Kids often go missing from the reception center, assuming that they can find better conditions on their own. They sometimes run away to the refugee camps, try to make the risky journey home to Eritrea, travel to other parts of Ethiopia, or try to go to other parts of the world. These children are vulnerable to all kinds of exploitation and abuse including smuggling and trafficking.

Given the conditions, it's not difficult to imagine that refugees of any age would embark on dangerous and risky journeys to Europe or other parts of the world.

It is understandable that people feel a sense of fatigue over the toll of war, especially as we witness the humanitarian crisis caused by the conflict in Syria. But it is simply not true that there is nothing more that can be done.

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Frankly, this crisis deserves the attention of world leaders. Very little time and focus has been given to the current situation. We can and we should do more to provide for the basic human needs of Eritrean refugees, especially those in camps in Ethiopia and Sudan. We must also do this in coordination with the African Union and the host countries themselves.

Eritreans fleeing their country are extremely vulnerable to human smuggling and trafficking. Working with host countries, we should promote migration paths from Eritrea to reduce underground channels and promote intercountry cooperation while treating victims humanely.

Also important is that much more must be done to resettle Eritrean refugees. Given the scale of human rights atrocities in Eritrea, returning home is not an option. Recently the U.S. State Department announced it came very close to resettling the number of refugees authorized. But that number is still 10,000 lower than the number of refugees we have resettled in the past. The United States and the European Union could do a better job of resettling refugees and providing a long term solution.
Everyone fails in life, and failure can be a crushing experience. The only thing that separates successful people from the rest is how they respond after they fail.

When facing obstacles, you have to decide if you're going to let them be the excuse for your failure or if you're going to make them the story behind your success.

"There is no failure. Only feedback." -Robert Allen

When you adopt the right attitude, failure is a great teacher. Failure interrupts your routine and gives you an opportunity to explore new solutions, but only if you have the right attitude.

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Psychologist Albert Bandura conducted a study that showed just how great a role our attitudes play in the face of failure. In the study, two groups of people were asked to complete an identical management task. The first group was told that the purpose of the task was to measure their management abilities. The other group was told that the skills required to complete the task were improvable and that the task was merely an opportunity to practice and improve. The trick was that the researchers made the task so difficult that all participants were bound to fail, and fail they did. The first group--feeling like failures because their skills weren't up to snuff--made little or no improvement when they were given opportunities to repeat the task. The second group, however, saw each failure as a learning opportunity, and they performed at progressively higher levels each time they attempted the task. The second group even rated themselves as more confident than the first group.

Just like the participants in Bandura's study, we can either view our failures as reflections of our abilities or as opportunities for growth. The next time you catch yourself wallowing in the self-pity that often accompanies failure, focus on what you can control: your attitude.

Some of the best lessons in life are also the toughest to accept and to adopt the right attitude toward. These are the lessons that challenge your flexibility and willingness to learn. When we don't embrace them soon enough, the lessons we learn turn out to be harsh ones.

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1. The first step is always the hardest. When you want to achieve something important, that first step is inevitably going to be daunting, even frightening. When you dare to make that first move, anxiety and fear dissipate in the name of action. People that dive headfirst into taking that brutal first step aren't any stronger than the rest of us; they've simply learned that it yields great results. They know that the pain of getting started is inevitable and that procrastination only prolongs their suffering.



2. Good things take time. Success, above all, requires time and effort. Author Malcolm Gladwell suggested that mastery of anything requires 10,000 hours of tireless focus. Many successful people would agree. Consider Henry Ford, whose first two automobile businesses failed before he started Ford at the age of 45, or author Harry Bernstein, who dedicated his entire life to writing before he finally landed a best-seller at the age of 96. When you finally do succeed, you realize that the journey was the best part of it.



3. Being busy does not equal being productive. Look at everyone around you. They all seem so busy, running from meeting to meeting and firing off e-mails. Yet how many of them are really producing, really succeeding at a high level? Success doesn't come from movement and activity; it comes from focus--from ensuring that your time is used efficiently and productively. You get the same number of hours in the day as everyone else, so use yours wisely. After all, you're the product of your output not your effort. Make certain your efforts are dedicated to tasks that get results.

4. You will always have less control than you want. There are too many extenuating circumstances in life to control every outcome. You can, however, control how you react to things that are out of your control. Your reaction is what transforms a mistake into a learning experience and ensures that a victory doesn't send your ego through the roof. You can't win every battle, but with the right attitude, you can win the war.



5. You're only as good as those you associate with. You should strive to surround yourself with people who inspire you, people who make you want to be better. And you probably do. But what about the people who drag you down? Why do you allow them to be part of your life? Anyone who makes you feel worthless, anxious, or uninspired is wasting your time and, quite possibly, making you more like them. Life is too short to associate with people like this. Cut them loose.



6. Your biggest problems are mental. Almost all our problems occur because we time travel: we go to the past and regret things we've done, or we go to the future and feel anxious about events that haven't even happened. It's all too easy to slip into the past or jet into the future. When you do, you lose sight of the one thing that you can actually control--the present.

7. Your self-worth must come from within. When your sense of pleasure and satisfaction are derived from comparing yourself with others, you are no longer the master of your own destiny. When you feel good about something that you've done, don't allow anyone's opinions or accomplishments to take that away from you. While it's impossible to turn off your reactions to what others think of you, you don't have to compare yourself with others and you can always take people's opinions with a grain of salt. That way, no matter what other people are thinking or doing, your self-worth comes from within. Regardless of what people think of you at any particular moment, one thing is certain--you're never as good or bad as they say you are.



8. Not everyone will support you. In fact, most people won't. Some people will inundate you with negativity, passive aggression, anger, or jealousy, but none of this matters, because, as Dr. Seuss said, "Those that matter don't mind, and those that mind don't matter." We can't possibly get support from everyone, and we definitely can't spend our time and energy trying to win over the people who don't support us. Letting go of the opinions of people who don't matter frees up time and energy for the people and things that do.

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9. Perfection doesn't exist. Don't seek perfection as your target. It doesn't exist. Human beings, by our very nature, are fallible. When perfection is your goal, you're always left with a nagging sense of failure that makes you want to give up or reduce your effort. You end up spending your time lamenting what you failed to accomplish and what you should have done differently, instead of moving forward, excited about what you've achieved and what you'll accomplish in the future.



10. Fear is the number one source of regret. When all is said and done, you will lament the chances you didn't take far more than you will your failures. Don't be afraid to take risks. I often hear people say, "What's the worst thing that can happen to you? Will it kill you?" Yet, death isn't the worst thing that can happen to you--the worst thing that can happen to you is allowing yourself to die inside while you're still alive.



Bringing It All Together

Successful people never stop learning. They learn from their mistakes and they learn from their triumphs, and they're always changing themselves for the better.
Beijing welcomes the Chinese New Year with the wish for a greener future, partly through bike-sharing. (Photo : Getty Images)

While conjuring an image of a smog-free Beijing comes off as difficult these days, it nonetheless has become a conceivable reality this Chinese New Year. The Chinese capital experiences change in its air quality as Chunyun clears the city from people, with the absence of cars and the proliferation of bike-sharing.



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The mass exodus that is Chunyun left Beijing virtually carless, and it's bound to remain so throughout the Spring Festival holiday, the Irish Times reported. On normal days, traffic jams are a conventional sight, alongside a large blanket of smog afflicting peoples' breathing faculties.



Beijing, as it is right now, is home to a seemingly endless scene of construction sites and factories. However, festivities during the Chinese New Year has restrained the industrializing clockwork, as workers have headed home to their families as they celebrate the holiday together.



Indeed, such scenarios during the Chinese New Year make Beijing a great place to visit during that time. What used to be a place sated with pushbikes on every street corner has now been plagued by smog-inducing vehicles--undeniably a mark of China's rising middle class, albeit with environmental costs.



But as pushbikes have been relegated to a distant memory of Beijing, two-wheeled wonders continue to serve as a crucial ingredient for the city's efforts to go green. Bike-sharing has become the latest in a series of efforts to clear the city of bad air, and it receives a great deal of private-sector support.



Mobike, one of such platforms, has received assistance from Taiwanese electronics giant Foxconn in its expansion efforts, per Fortune. Other bike-sharing firms such as Ofo and Bluegogo are also prevalent throughout Beijing, proof that the demand for mobility also comes popularly in two wheels.



Technology isn't neglected either in Beijing's bike-sharing programs, as several of the available bikes are GPS-powered and boast sleek designs. That, for sure, provides a great deal of motivation for locals to utilize two wheels to supplement their fast-paced lifestyles, as they usher in a newer and greener China.


One of Donald Trump's first acts as president of the USA was to sign an executive order which prohibits organisations that receive US family planning assistance from using non-US funding to provide abortion services, information, counselling or referrals, making it impossible for organisations not only to deliver the service of safe abortions, but also to give education, to promote contraceptives and make sure that people have access to contraceptives.

I lived for many years in a number of African countries where abortion was illegal and contraceptives were hard to come by, usually due to the influence of Western churches and religious organisations pouring money into the country, who successfully lobbied governments to ban both. In these countries where women did not have access to basic reproductive healthcare, were given no council, no assistance and few options, a common story repeated itself over and over.

The story would differ in how the girl came to be pregnant, but there was a consistent theme; for whatever reason, she had been willing to risk her life to have an abortion performed. In many cases the girl was raped, infected with HIV, seriously ill, disabled, or her religious family would do an honour killing on finding out about the pregnancy, or she did not have the money and a home in which to raise the baby. On failing to find a way to abort, it was not uncommon after giving birth, to tie the newborn in a plastic bag and dispose of it.

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This sad story had a common ending. The girl would search out and find an "alternative"; usually a medicine man or quack willing to perform the abortion for a fee. How the abortion was performed varied, but it almost always ended with death or near death as the final scenario, usually from infection setting in, as the girl was left without medicine or proper care.
Yesterday I outlined the reasons why the seven days that began with the inauguration of president* Trump constituted the most ominous week since the Cuban Missile Crisis. Our country is in extraordinary danger from a madman in the White House who is clearly moving in an authoritarian direction. There was, though, a bursting forth in that week of darkness of the brilliant sunshine of one of the most hopeful developments in modern American history. It is to that hope that I'll turn in this piece.

Less than twenty-four hours after the takeover of our government by people who threaten all that is best in the American tradition, an angry nationalist inaugural speech, the removal of climate change, civil rights, and LGBT pages from the White House website, and much more, the Women's Marches last Saturday transformed the despair into great hope.

January 20, was one of the darkest days in the nation's history (certainly not the worst; we've had a lot of bad ones. Antietam comes to mind, along with others, but an unstable man with a literally catastrophic--think reversal on climate change)--agenda taking over as president of the United States certainly ranks down there).

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But if last Friday seemed to many of us to be the funeral of the American Republic, we didn't even have to wait until Sunday for the Resurrection to begin. Saturday brought a whole new outlook and optimism. The amazing outpouring of people at Women's Marches around the country and the world to protest the evil that the Trump Administration represents can and must be the start of something great and powerful. All those people who came out on Saturday are not going to stay home in the next election.

The opportunity is clear. After Barack Obama's election, the extreme right created the "Tea Party." This past weekend can give birth to a center-left "We Party" to oppose robustly the "Me Party" that the Republicans have, under Trump, become more than ever before.

Circumstances today are vastly more favorable for the building of a powerful resistance movement than they were when the Tea Party was started.

In 2009, at the time the Tea Party was launched in opposition to President Obama, he had an 80 percent approval rating and most of his policy proposals had the support of substantial majorities of Americans. He had won the election by a margin of 7.3 percent and was loved around the world.

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In 2017, a movement in opposition to President Trump is being launched at a time when his approval rating is 36 percent, and most of his policy positions are opposed by majorities of the American people. He lost the vote by 2.1 percent and, apart from Russia and the followers of various neo-Nazi movements, is despised by people around the world.

Barack Obama had won 53 percent of the votes the previous November; Donald Trump won only 46 percent. Obama had won by a margin of more than 9.5 million votes; Trump lost by nearly 2.9 million votes.

Obama was taking office at a time when his predecessor, George W. Bush, had an approval rating of 34 percent. Trump is taking office at a time when the approval rating of his predecessor, Obama, stands at 59 percent. Put another way, shortly before the Tea Party began, Obama had an approval rating 46 points higher than the man he was succeeding. Today, Trump has an approval rating 22 points lower than he man he is succeeding. For those organizing an opposition, that is a 68-point advantage for those mobilizing against Trump over what the Tea Party had in fighting Obama.

The Tea Party began as and has remained a distinctly minority movement, yet it gained extraordinary influence. A We Party would begin as a majority movement that can mobilize the sort of enthusiasm that was evident in the Women's March.

There are other great advantages for a We Party movement over the situation in which the Tea Party arose. In 2009, when Barack Obama took office, the economy was in free fall, people were eager for positive leadership and the likelihood was, with sensible policies coming from the new administration, that the economy would improve.

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In contrast, President Obama leaves in place a strong economy and Donald Trump is saying that he will pursue--to an even more extreme degree--precisely the policies that have led to economic ruin in the past: massive tax cuts for the rich and corporations, concentrating even more of the nation's wealth and income into the holdings of the billionaires whose grasping hands and underdeveloped consciences are so well adapted for the habitat of the Trump Administration, eliminating the regulations that restrain the predatory behavior that contributed so substantially to the collapses of 1929 and 2008, and reducing government assistance for the middle class and poor that keeps up some buying power during downturns. If history is our guide, a new economic breakdown will result from his policies, though when is more difficult to predict.

The control of the presidency and both houses of Congress by the Republicans at a time when the Administration and many of the party's officeholders are right-wing extremists is a very dangerous thing for the nation and world. But such complete control of the government will make it crystal clear to most people who is to blame for the exceedingly harmful and unpopular policies that are already being proclaimed from the White House and for the economic consequences of the tried and failed policies of the past. The two sharpest and longest lasting political realignments in American history came when the Democrats controlled the presidency and Congress when the Panic of 1893 hit, leading to Republican ascendancy until the Great Depression began when they were in complete control in 1929, starting a long period of majority identification with the Democratic Party.

While the policies Trump and his party are pushing are likely to result in such a collapse, Democrats and a We Party have many advantages that can be used to regain power and reverse the disastrous course on which the Trump Administration is trying to set the country before a new economic catastrophe hits.

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Let us organize that dynamic resistance without delay.
Seven days since the #WomensMarch shook the world and I still can't get out of my head images of women resisting - joyful and determined. I marched in New York City. I came home that day with a thrill I still haven't shaken. A good thing, because mass mobilization may be our most potent weapon against a new administration that has already shown itself to be grossly incompetent, hateful, and acutely dangerous to our health.

As a reported 3.3 to 4.6 million women and men marched on January 21st, I wanted to get a selection of stories - first drafts of history - so we can know what this day was really like for many. I sent out the call and received written narratives from 41 marchers (39 women and two men). Fifteen marches were represented: Washington, DC; New York City, Phoenix, AZ; Stamford, CT; Cincinnati, OH; Montpeiler, VT; Dayton, OH; Winchester, VA; Ithaca, NY; Indianapolis, IN; Houston, TX; Portland, ME; Jacksonville, FL; Austin, TX; Lansing, MI; and Des Moines, IA. Here is what they shared.

Getting There

Some marchers hired buses. Some flew, some drove, others walked. Megean Weidman journeyed just "a few hundred feet" to the march site from her cafe job in Portland, Maine. Elisabeth Lehr traveled 500 miles each way. "We drove from Northern Vermont to Washington, DC," wrote Lehr. "Every rest top was filled with happy, excited, pussy-hatted women."

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Instead of marching in NYC's sister march, several New York-based respondents headed to Washington. "I took a bus to DC from Manhattan with a diverse group of women and one righteous man," wrote Shari Berman. "The bus was arranged by moms from my son's school. We sang freedom songs along the way led by a 70 year-old grandmother who had clearly done this before."

"Our bus captains jokingly left Depend diapers on each seat," wrote New Yorker Leslie Cain. "We laughed about our ugly clear backpacks that carried water, granola bars, sharpies, battery packs, and tampons on full display. They had to be clear so we wouldn't be deemed 'dangerous' and detained."

Some marchers had a simpler journey. "I had a ten-minute drive," wrote Morgen Bermel in Des Moines. "Then a couple rides around the block to find an open parking space."

In Houston and Phoenix Uber-riders reported anxiety that their drivers in might be conservative and against the march, but were pleasantly surprised by their support--or at least, neutrality. "[Our Uber driver] was rather indifferent but we got him talking about music," said Beth Weinstein in Phoenix. "He was a big Lady Gaga fan, so we at least felt non-threatened at that point."

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In Washington, Melissa Sullivan was struck by the journey through DC itself: "As we drove [in] we could see bands of men and women wearing pink hats and holding signs, on their way to the march. We honked at them in solidarity, waving a sign out of the window and cheering as we passed. The closer we got to the Capitol, the larger these groups became. Dozens of tour buses, filled to capacity, unloaded. Throngs of people ascended from the metro. It was amazing."

Obstacles

Fear ranked number one. Getting over one's fear that the march might get violent or out-of-control. "We had never protested or marched before," wrote Monica Chylla, an East Lansing mother who marched in DC. "I was nervous about potential violent outbursts at the march. I was so anxious I couldn't sleep the night before. But this experience was completely peaceful and people were courteous."

"Winchester (VA) is a fairly conservative place," wrote Tamara Haack. "I was worried about what the repercussions would be as far as counter-protests. While watching the Inauguration I realized I needed to overcome my fear because this just too damn important to stay home."

Fear of crowds was a major anxiety to overcome. "I feel incredibly claustrophobic and shy in huge crowds," wrote Addie Tsai, who attended the Houston march. "I have never been to any kind of protest or march such as this one, mainly for these reasons."

For Pam Hart, who attended the Stamford, CT, march, it was deciding whether to bring a mildly-feverish child who really wanted to go. They decided to bring her and it was fine. "Tylenol and snacks did the trick," wrote Hart.

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Other obstacles involved logistics. A Maryland mother who prefers to remain anonymous arrived at the Shady Grove Metro at 8:00am and couldn't board until 9:30am. "It was so packed inside the station," she wrote, "we worried we wouldn't get to DC. But police came and staggered the traffic so people weren't crowded in the tunnel leading to the station. It could have been a disaster."

At the DC march, marchers struggled to access WI-FI. Marchers who promised to text and find each other were incommunicado. "My family was trying to reach me but they couldn't" said the Maryland mother. "No Internet seemed to be a problem," wrote Carolyn Ferrell. "But then it wasn't. We communicated with each other, shared stories, and enjoyed the signs."

The Kids Are Alright

As the mother of a six year-old, I thought about bringing my son to the New York City march. But that thought last two minutes - I feared losing him in a large, unpredictable crowd. I feared bathroom asks at bad times. Many respondents reported worrying whether or not the march would be a safe and good place for their kids.

Yet many families brought their children and shared how profound it was to march together--with a little planning. "We had such a smooth, positive experience that could have easily turned difficult due to the children," wrote Dr. Christie Boxer, who attended the Lansing, MI march. "We studied the city layout so that we could move about effectively given any conditions - violent outbreak, road closings - and arrived early enough to get a kid-friendly spot."

In New York City, Dana Ostomel was proud of her daughter's poise, as were fellow marchers: "My five year-old stood with me in a two x two radius for almost three hours waiting to march. My daughter received a lot of positive reinforcement for coming out, standing with others, and using her voice." At the same march, Jenn Linstad felt her eleven year-old daughter had a profound consciousness expansion. "Her foundations in social justice have been strong," said Linstad. "But by being there, she was able to see, first-hand, the deafening truth in the Audre Lorde statement: 'I am not free while any woman is unfree, even when her shackles are very different from my own."

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Two respondents noted the children as a highpoint. "Perhaps the most beautiful thing about the march were the children who marched alongside their parents," wrote Matt Jones, who marched in Cincinnati. Addie Tsai thought the most poignant aspect of the march experience was "seeing so many children holding signs." At the Houston march, Robin Reagler's 11 year-old daughter carried a sign that said "I compete in rodeos. Don't tell me how girls should ACT." A daughter in DC held the sign: "If One Man Can Destroy Everything Why Can't One Girl Change It?". And I'll never forget the young afroed teen boy I saw sitting above the crowd on NYC scaffolding with the sign "Thank you Obamas! You made us feel great again!"

"I'm not sure if my daughter will remember the actual day," added Ostomel, "but I hope it builds a visceral feeling within her memory bank that she can call upon."

The March Experience

So how did it feel for the adults? "Transformative," wrote Lucy Vagnerova. "Uplifting and invigorating," wrote Pam Hart. "Empowering and transformative," wrote a Long Island mother. "A top ten highlight of my life," wrote the Maryland mother.

This may have been a trip of a lifetime, but it wasn't easy. "Cold, muddy, stuck in a crowd - we didn't really get to march or hear the speakers," wrote Nicole Cooley, who traveled to Washington from New Jersey. "But it was so inspiring! A lesson to girls that activism isn't always comfortable." Ami Novak wrote of the #PortaJohnStruggle. "We exchanged supplies with the ladies around us, because the porta-johns were disgusting and nearly overflowing," wrote Novak. "[The ladies in line] gave my friend's daughter an extra pussy hat. She loved it."

In Montpeiler, VT, Lea Belair was stunned by the crowd size - an estimated 20,000 in a town of 7500 - and who made a special appearance. "We had a high vantage point from the capitol steps and could see marchers arriving at the rally for literally hours. When Bernie Sanders showed up unexpectedly, the crowd--including me--went wild. When he told us there were so many cars on the interstate they had to shut it down, the crowd erupted."

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For a New York mom traveling to Dayton, OH, on business, attending the local march was an "incredible" experience. "At first I felt out of place because I'm Black, and the crowd majority was definitely Caucasian. I was also wearing all-black and tall boots, something extremely common in New York City, but not in Dayton. But I loved my displaced experience. It proved to me how from the beginning this era is strong."

"At 62 years, it was my first march," wrote the Maryland mom. "It's the best I've felt this election because I realized that there was a sense of solidarity that day. I wasn't alone. I wasn't crazy. The marchers were predominantly white, but people of every hue participated. People were so nice. And that's not a word I use often. Though I would suggest inviting more women of color. It would have been nice to see more diversity."

Despite white majorities, marchers of color reported positive experiences. "Although I've heard valid points regarding issues of white privilege at the marches, that wasn't my experience," wrote Addie Tsai of the Houston march. "I found incredible solidarity among bodies of various positions - white, black queer, Asian, etc. Everyone felt very connected, and kind, and generous with their bodies in the space." Leslie Cain wore a placard that said "What a Patriot Looks Like". "The arrow pointed towards my melanin-skinned, afro-haloed self," wrote Cain. "Older white women in particular stopped to take pictures of me all day. Not in a unicorn siting way (I know that feeling), but possibly in agreement."

In New York City, marchers spoke of the thrill of marching up Fifth Avenue towards Trump Tower. "Beyond the barricades, non-marchers were cheering us on and holding their own signs," wrote Sirin Thada. "People were waving down from windows and balconies. We heard the sound of church bells along the breeze. As we got closer, 'We Shall Overcome' rang from the top of St. Thomas Church and we sang along. That was such a beautiful moment, to all be of one voice." Rosie Finizio wrote that the high point of marching was knowing "that we are all the heroes of this story, united against an evil Orange Menace." But Finizio had advice for next time around: "Once people get to Trump Tower, they must MOVE." After many hours waiting for a march to start, marchers want to keep it moving for sure.

Speakers captivated many of the marchers. National coverage showed the diverse Washington speaking program, featuring activists from Angela Davis to Linda Sarsour to Melissa Mays. Other marches had speakers, too. At the New York City march, Finizio noted Whoopi Goldberg and Cynthia Nixon. "I went early so I was near the platform and got to hear many of the speeches," wrote Michelle Valladeres. "The most poignant one came from a Latino activist who spoke about his mother's journey crossing the border to give him a chance at an education. He described the running, falling down, and fear, in detail. I felt the pain of all of our stories of immigration, discrimination for whatever difference we possess in that moment. I cried."

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Star encounters were profound, too. Joan Lipkin had a primo spot next to the stage in DC. There she met Harry Potter film star and UN Goodwill Ambassador Emma Watson. Watson is best known for playing girl power heroine Hermione, a character often namedropped on many march signs (ex. "Without Hermione, Harry would have died in book one"). "I told her she was a wonderful actress but that her work as a human rights activist was as important," wrote Lipkin. "She seemed touched. And when I told her that she is the future, she teared up."

You can make the case that the real stars of the day were handmade signs--and the handmade hats. "We saw so many creative signs--people actively complimented each other on originality and execution," wrote Lucie Vagnerova, who attended the Washington march. She also met a woman who sculpts medical-grade silicone vaginas for surgical practice, and she had glued a few anatomically-diverse ones to signs staying "Stay out of my vagina," "Grabs back," and "Not Yours to Grab." And so many in the crowd wore hand-knit hats based on a pattern shared before the march. "There were thousands, maybe tens of thousands of pink pussy hats. This is what the patriarchy gets for committing women to arts and crafts for centuries: we really brought it!"

At her Phoenix march, Beth Weinstein was moved to see Canadian women marching. "To know that the world is concerned and wants to lend their voices is truly heartfelt," wrote Weinstein. "It also scares me. If they're as concerned as I am, then the administration must be as bad as I anticipate it to be."

In Jacksonville, Holly Masturzo simply wanted to listen. Part of their march day was at Suffragette Mary A. Nolan's gravesite. "People were greeted at the gates of the cemetery and given pledge cards for the local Democratic party - a practical gesture, yet not one that felt like the call I wanted to respond to most that moment," wrote Masturzo. "It wasn't a moment to sign for next actions in my view but rather for listening, for tending to the layers, intensely complex ones at that, of the journey of women's suffrage in this part of the world."



Photo by Emma-Lee

Signs (A Selection)

Take your broken heart and make it art! / These are not tears. This is the Sea. /Thinking Women Against Trump (TWAT) / RBG, stay alive!/Black Lives Matter (carried by more than Black people) / Cheeto in Chief / My daughter's more afraid of intolerance than cancer / Women are Literally the Best / Grumpy Cat saying "UGH" / So bad, even introverts are here / Build a wall between church and state / Do the Most Good/ Love trumps hate / They tried to bury us but they didn't know we were seeds / Women's rights are human rights (with the W on Women replaced with a pair of breasts) / RESIST / The revolution starts here (with a diagram of a uterus) / Make America Think Again / Did you assume that I'm wearing my dad's (Navy) hat? Or my brother's maybe? Then YOU are the reason I'm here /Less suffering, more grace / #FreeMelania / Can't believe I have to protest this shit forty years later / Toddlers Against Tyranny / Your guns will have no animals left to kill if you don't take care of the environment / [Signs in Russian] / Show us your taxes / (Caricature of a sad Paul Ryan) Paul Ryan Can't Find the Clit / Excerpt of June Jordan's 'Poem About My Rights' / We Shall Overcomb / America Is Already Great / Don't Forget: White Women Voted for Trump / I'd Call Him a Cunt But He Lacks Depth and Warmth / Never Underestimate the Power of a Fag with a Tambourine / Resistance is Fertile! / Lesbian Moms on Fleek. Stay Woke! / Thou Shalt Not Mess with a Woman's Reproductive Rights. Fallopians 1:21 / Hell hath no fury like 157 million women scorned / Viva la vulva / I will NOT go QUIETLY back into the 1950s / Respect existence or expect resistance / If you build a wall, I will grow up and tear it down / History has its eyes on you / Planned Parenthood saved my life / I'm NASTY AF / Bully Culprit / Oh Hell No

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What Now?

I asked the marchers what they will do next. "What won't I do now is the question," wrote Beth Weinstein. "I'm making calls every day to (Senators) McCain and Flake. Today's calls are regarding (Cabinet nominee) Betsy DeVos." Other marchers pledged phone calls and visits to elected, actions encouraged by the Indivisible guide and congressional staff advising constituents on most effective lobbying techniques. "We must call, email, and write our representatives relentlessly," wrote Dawn Tarney Brunner. "So they never forget what the majority wants."

"I'm getting involved with the local Democratic organization," wrote Dr. Boxer, "and using my position as a college professor to educate and guide others to effective actions." Laura Miller Tomaselli, a Brooklyn mother, is busier than ever: "Lots of conversations, social media posts, poster parties, fundraising dinners, rallies, picket lines, voter turnout efforts. Lots of listening, lots of comparing notes."

But Miller made a point about current political leadership. "The grassroots certainly showed its stuff last Saturday. Now we are waiting for the Democratic Party to do more than send us daily solicitations. Where are they, I wonder? Is there anything left of that billion we raised for Hillary?"

All respondents had some kind of action plan, though some marchers were focused more on personal interactions: "I want to be a force of positivity, to be everything Trump is not," wrote Sirin Thada. "To speak from the heart, but with wisdom, clarity, love and respect.

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To End with a Beginning

When Shari Berman shared her story, she wrote of her group's walk from their parked bus to the Washington march site. I thought it was beautiful. Please allow me to end this piece with a beginning:


Lucy Nicholson/Reuters

Chinese New Year, or the Spring Festival, is a highlight in Chinese society. But for many young people, the joy of vacation and family reunion is mixed with questions from parents and relatives about their achievements in the past year, including about their relationships.

This is a particularly stressful occasion for single men who - unless they choose to rent a fake partner or have a stroke of luck at the local marriage "market" - are forced to face the miserable fate of singlehood.

These involuntary bachelors, who fail to add fruit to their family tree are often referred to as "bare branches", or guanggun. And the Chinese state has recently started to worry about the dire demographic trend posed by the growing number of bare branches.

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The 2010 national census data suggests that 24.7% Chinese men above the age of 15 have never been married, while 18.5% of women in the same age group remain unwed.

The disparity in marital status between the sexes is particularly large in younger age groups. According to the same data source, 82.44% of Chinese men between 20 and 29 years of age have never been married, which is 15% more than women of the same age. The gap is approximately 6% among those in their 30s and less than 4% for those in their 40s or older.

Hiding in plain sight?

China's surplus of men is attributed, at least in part, to the family planning policy implemented in the country since 1979. The One Child Policy, coupled with the patriarchal tradition of son preference, has led many families to give up on their daughters. This has happened through gender-selective abortion, infanticide or by giving away girl children.

The bitter fruit of the preference for sons is a female deficit of 20 million people in the coming decades for men of marrying age.

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But there is an argument that the sex birth ratio might not be as skewed as all that. It points out that many of the "missing" girls were unregistered at birth in official records. By examining multiple waves of census data, for example, researchers have found that millions of "hidden girls" turned up in later statistics.

That being said, the extreme 118:100 sex birth ratio still points to huge pools of bachelors in China in the decades to come.

What alarms the state is not the singleton status of these men, but their socioeconomic characteristics. China's wealth is unequally distributed across the population, with particularly huge income gaps between urban and rural populations.

As in most countries, men are expected to be the head and main provider for the family, and women are allowed and encouraged to "marry up" to males with resources. Caught between the patriarchal tradition and the widening social gap, Chinese men on the lower end of the socioeconomic ladder have a particularly hard time attracting brides.

The "marriage squeeze" would not be so devastating for these bachelors had the Chinese government been thorough and persistent with its gender equality policy. Gender equality has been written in the constitution since 1954 and has been proudly promoted by the socialist state.

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New generations of Chinese women, who now make up 45% of the country's workforce and are almost on par with their male compatriots in education enrolments, no longer need to be financially dependent on future husbands. They have the potential to shake rigid gender roles that require men to shoulder the economic burden alone.

But the translation from educational attainment to earning power and equal status is not at all straightforward. The labour market in China has become increasingly hostile towards women in recent years and the gender gap in employment rate and income have expanded.

Many young women - especially those without promising career prospects - are looking again to marriage as their once-in-a-lifetime chance for upward social mobility. This is reflected in the increasing dating costs and rocketing "bride wealth" that women request from their male partners, which further disadvantage impoverished men.

Young men - economically disadvantaged and sexually frustrated - might eventually vent their anger through violence against others, thereby threatening public security and social stability. At least, that's what the Chinese government fears.

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Easy targets

Social gaps are so difficult to close that the Chinese authorities are firing at the easier target: women.

But little is discussed in official channels about abandoned girls, domestic and international human trafficking, and supporting women in workplaces.

Of course, not all "bare branches" are disadvantaged because of socioeconomic reasons. Homosexuality was formally decriminalised in China as recently as 1997 and removed from the list of mental illness in 2001.

Still excluded from the institution of marriage or any civil union, many Chinese gay men either have to stay legally single or form a sham union - often with lesbians who have the same problem. But some choose to or have had to marry straight women, causing tremendous distress to both parties.

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No longer wanting to spend their lives alone or to deceive innocent straight women, Chinese gay men are starting on the long, hard fight for marriage equality. Victory is still a long way away; China abstained from voting on the UN resolution on the rights of LGBT people in 2011. And in June 2016, a Chinese court dismissed a gay couple's lawsuit for their right to marriage.

Despite the conservative stance of the government and the dominating power of capital, there are signs of progress. In a recent survey on relationship values conducted by Tencent.com, - one of the leading internet companies in China - both male and female respondents listed "individual space" (32.8%) and "real connections" (24.6%) as their top requirements for starting a marriage. Only 9.3% males and 16.6% females put "house and car" as a requirement, suggesting a rejection of the purely materialistic model of marriage.

Similarly, in study on dating attitudes and expectations among Chinese college students, both sexes put "kind", "loving", "considerate" as the most desirable qualities in a romantic partner.

If they play nice and work with women to push for gender equality, perhaps there's hope for the bare branches yet.

Xuan Li, Assistant Professor of Psychology, NYU Shanghai
Schmidt ad says Democrats helping Pyle "trying to steal" governor's race

Attorney General Derek Schmidt's campaign has hit out with a radio ad saying "national Democrats are trying to steal the Kansas governor's race."
Roshmitha Harimurthy, Miss Universe India 2016 competes on stage in Yamamay swimwear featuring footwear by Chinese Laundry during the 65th MISS UNIVERSE Preliminary Competition at the Mall of Asia Arena on Thursday, January 26, 2017. The contestants have (Photo : Miss Universe Organization)

Time to celebrate the most beautiful women from across the world. Miss Universe 2016 is set to air this Sunday and the competition is on. You can watch Miss Universe 2016 live online, check out the link below.



Miss Universe 2017: Date, Start Time and Where to Watch



The 65th edition of Miss Universe will air on Sunday, Jan. 29 live from the Philippines on FOX at 7 p.m. ET/PT.



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Watch Miss Universe 2016 online via live stream, here.



Sushmita Sen (Miss Universe from India), Dayanara Torres (Miss Universe from Puerto Rico), Leila Lopes (Miss Universe from Angola), Francine LeFrak, Cynthia Bailey of The Bailey Agency School of Fashion and Mickey Boardman, PAPER Magazine's editorial director.



Steve Harvey has been roped in again to host the event this year. Meanwhile, Ashley Graham will be the backstage host at the 65th Miss Universe event.



Meanwhile, Miss Canada Siera Bearchell took to Instagram to take down the body shamers.



"How does it feel to be so much.. larger than the other delegates?" I was just asked this question in a press junket by a member of the media. I was left almost speechless. I thought, "How does it feel to be myself? How does it feel to be confident in who I am? How does it feel to fulfill my dream of representing Canada on the Miss Universe stage? How does it feel to be a role model for so many young women who struggle to find someone to look up to? How does it feel to redefine beauty?"- My answer- It feels great," Bearchell captioned her photo.



Miss Universe 2016 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach will crown the new Miss Universe this year.



Stay tuned for the complete coverage of Miss Universe 2016 winner, runner ups and more. Share your views and thoughts in the section below.


The Florida Chamber of Commerce has submitted a list of priorities to the Florida Legislature as it gears up for its upcoming session. The list includes proposals to reduce the states workers compensation costs by stopping fraud and abuse.Our main focus is to keep Florida competitive in every way, the chambers executive vice president, David Hart, told The Florida Times-Union.Hart said that the chamber is urging legislators to reform the state workers compensation system, which has been wracked with abuse and manipulation. He shared that the average Floridian employer is facing an incredible 14.5% increase in its workers compensation insurance rates, noting that this could lead to an increase in commodity prices, decrease in employee benefits, and even staff layoffs or hiring freezes.Hart decried the situation, which hurts both businesses and employees, but benefits some opportunistic law firms, which are (opening up) workers compensation offices because they see a pot of money.The US Chamber of Commerce has declared Florida has the seventh-worst legal climate for business in the country, so Hart says the state legislature should tackle it once its session resumes in March.Another issue the Florida chamber wants lawmakers to tackle is reducing property insurance fraud, which drives up costs for many businesses across the state.According to Hart, several construction firms in Florida go through neighborhoods after bad weather, convincing owners that their properties need work  and then offering to do the jobs for cheap if the residents agree to relinquish the assignment of benefits rights in their property insurance policies.This allows the construction firms to bill insurers at inflated rates, and later hiding behind excessive litigation to force insurers to pay up.We need to tighten up legal (loopholes) that are causing this dramatic increase in fraudulent, false cases, Hart said.
China-made detection reagent of Ebola virus is being processed on Aug. 26, 2014 in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province of China. (Photo : Getty Images)

China will strengthen the monitoring of medicines that are prone to chronic supply shortages to ensure that they can be replenished quickly, according to new national guidelines.



The drug regulations stated in the guidelines are aimed at addressing irregularities in the production and circulation of drugs and improving its quality and efficiency, Wang Hesheng, vice-minister of the National Health and Family Planning Commission, said on Wednesday.



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The guideline, which was drafted by the State Council's Health Reform Office and China Food and Drug Administration, has been approved and will be released soon, according to Wang.



He said that the new regulations will lead to improved oversight of the production of drugs and faster approval of new medicines.



The guidelines also push for the streamlining of the circulation of drugs between pharmaceutical companies and hospitals to cut down the price of drugs and regulate the increase of expenditures, Wang added.



Reports of shortages of commonly used medicines, including essential ones, in many parts of China have stirred public interest in the country in recent years.



Protamine sulfate, an injection needed for life-saving operations including heart surgeries, made headlines in April after it was reported that the drug was in short supply in many areas of China, forcing several hospitals to temporarily suspend heart surgeries.



The National Health and Family Planning Commission responded in May that Chinese pharmaceutical companies have halted production of the drug at the end of 2015 due to new drug laws in China, causing the shortage.



Measures to encourage production of the drug were undertaken so that it can be supplied immediately to the market, the commission said in a statement in May.



Wu Zhen, head of the China Food and Drug Administration, told Xinhua on Wednesday that many of the medicines that are in short supply are for children.



Guo Xiang, deputy director of consumer goods at the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, said the ministry has chosen seven kinds of drugs for children's use and has authorized pharmaceutical companies since last year to produce them to ensure a steady supply.



The ministry has invested 80 million yuan last year to help increase the supply of paediatric medicines, he said.



Fu Mingzhong, executive president of the China Association of Pharmaceutical Commerce, said a national data platform on the monitoring of drugs will certainly address China's drug shortage.


In 1957, Gladys Zender became the first Miss Peru to win Miss Universe and since then, the crown has yet to be given to another Peruvian candidate. This will change if Valeria Piazza, 26, wins Miss Universe 2016 and becomes Pia Alonzo Wurtbach's successor.



On Jan. 10, Piazza left Peru with Miss Peru 1986 Jessica Newton. Wearing a white outfit, Piazza took pictures with her fans when she arrived at Aeropuerto Internacional Jorge Chavez, Diario Correo reported.



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Piazza graduated from Universidad de Lima with a degree in Communications. She would like to raise awareness against violence towards women and children if she becomes Miss Universe 2016.



On Jan. 30, Monday, Wurtzbach will crown her successor at the Mall of Asia Arena, Pasay, Metro Manila, Philippines. The musical performers during the Miss Universe 2016 coronation night are Boys II Men and Flo Rida.



Steve Harvey is returning as the host of the coronation night with "America's Next Top Model" judge Ashley Graham as the backstage host. The former arrived in Manila on Jan. 28, Saturday, ABS-CBN News reported.



With a new format, Top 12 will be chosen from the preliminary competition and will be announced during the coronation night. The semifinalists will then be trimmed down to Top 9, from which six will be selected to undergo one Q&A round. In the final round, the Top 3 candidates will only get a final look from the judges and fans before the second runner-up, first runner-up and the winner are announced.



The judging panel during the coronation night includes Miss Universe 1993 Dayanara Torres from Puerto Rico, Miss Universe 1994 Sushmita Sen from India and Miss Universe 2011 Leila Lopes from Angola. Joining them are theatrical, TV and film producer Francine LeFrak, Paper Magazine editorial director Mickey Boardman and "The Real Housewives of Atlanta" star Cynthia Bailey.



On Jan. 18, Wurtzbach participated in a dinner program in Baguio City, Philippines, which was hosted by Miss Universe 2011 third runner-up Shamcey Supsup. Distinguished people of the city welcomed them along with some Miss Universe 2016 candidates including Piazza.



Have a glimpse of Piazza's visit in Baguio here:






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Fears of a talent exodus following the UKs vote to leave the EU have haunted the British psyche since June.

Last year, The Boston Consulting Group warned that up to 80,000 banking and finance jobs could be moved from London to other centres in Europe in a mass migration worse than at any time during the financial crisis.

But while financial firms are discussing whether they will need to move European headquarters or their staff to the continent, one entrepreneur sees the UKs possible brain drain as an opportunity.

Marcin Czyza, who use to work in finance, founded Expatexit, a company that aims to help foreigners working in Britain find jobs elsewhere following the Brexit vote.

Mr Czyza said he had already received more than 1,000 registrations since October, with 60 per cent coming from the finance world. After Prime Minister Theresa May confirmed last week that the UK would leave the single market, Mr Czyza said the site saw a spike in interest with four times more registration than usual.

The platform serves both individuals and businesses who are looking to join the new expat-crowd and move their operations.

He told The Independent: People are concerned that jobs will be cut in the UK and they want to live in a more secure and predictable environment.

My opinion is that the UK economy will be suffering in the long run... We need to bear in mind that Europe is the UKs largest trade business partner. A significant percentage of the British economy comes from finance, law, or consulting services. All these jobs are easy to relocate.

For now the company works as a non-profit organisation, but Mr Czyza hopes to turn the project into a recruitment agency.

People who register on his website provide information around where they would like to relocate to and what type of job they are interested in. Mr Czyza said the most popular destinations are Frankfurt and Paris  two financial hubs  followed by Amsterdam, Barcelona and Berlin. Others are keen to relocate as far away as Singapore.

Brexit Concerns Show all 26 1 /26 Brexit Concerns Brexit Concerns Brexit will put British patients at 'back of the queue' for new drugs Brexit will put British patients at the back of the queue for vital new drugs, the Government has been warned  forcing them to wait up to two years longer A medicines regulator has raised the alarm over a likely decision to pull out of the European Medicines Agency (EMA), as well as the EU itself. ealth Secretary Jeremy Hunt dropped the bombshell , when he said he expected the UK would quit the EMA  because it is subject to rulings by the European Court of Justice. Getty Images Brexit Concerns London to lose status as 'gateway to Europe' for banks One of Germanys top banking regulators has warned that London could lose its status as gateway to Europe for the banking sector after Britain quits the European trading bloc. Andreas Dombret, who is an executive board member for the BundesbankGermanys central banktold a private meeting of German businesses and banks earlier this week in Frankfurt that even if banking rules were equivalent between the UK and the rest of the EU, that was still miles away from [Britain having] access to the single market, the BBC reports. Jason Hawkes Brexit Concerns Exodus The number of financial sector professionals in Britain and continental Europe looking for jobs in Ireland rocketed in the months after the UK voted to leave the European Union Shutterstock Brexit Concerns Brexit is making FTSE 100 executives richer Pay packages of many FTSE 100 chief executive officers are partly tied to how well share prices are doing rather than the CEOs performance -- and some stocks are soaring. ritish equities got a boost since the June vote because the likes of Rio Tinto, Smiths Group and WPP generate most sales abroad and earn a fortune when they convert these revenues back into the weakened pound. Sterlings fall also made UK stocks more affordable for overseas investors. Rex Brexit Concerns Theresa May: UK to leave single market Theresa May has said the UK "cannot possibly" remain within the European single market, as staying in it would mean "not leaving the EU at all". Getty Brexit Concerns Lead campaigner Gina Miller and her team outside the High Court Getty Brexit Concerns Raymond McCord holds up his newly issued Irish passport alongside his British passport outside the High Court in Belfast following a judges dismissal of the UK's first legal challenges to Brexit PA wire Brexit Concerns SDLP leader Colum Eastwood leaving the High Court in Belfast following a judges dismissal of the UK's first legal challenges to Brexit PA wire Brexit Concerns Migrants with luggage walk past a graffiti on a wall as they leave the 'Jungle' migrant camp, as part of a major three-day operation planned to clear the camp in Calais Getty Brexit Concerns Migrants leave messages on their tents in the Jungle migrant camp Getty Brexit Concerns The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (Adra) which distributes approximately 700 meals daily in the northern Paris camp states that it is noticing a spike in new migrant arrivals this week, potentially linked the the Calais 'jungle' camp closure - with around 1000 meals distributed today EPA Brexit Concerns Migrant workers pick apples at Stocks Farm in Suckley, Britain Reuters Brexit Concerns Many farmers across the country are voicing concerns that Brexit could be a dangerous step into the unknown for the farming industry Getty Brexit Concerns Bank of England governor Mark Carney who said the long-term outlook for the UK economy is positive, but growth was slowing in the wake of the Brexit vote PA Brexit Concerns The Dow Jones industrial average closed down over 600 points on the news with markets around the globe pluninging Getty Brexit Concerns Immigration officers deal with each member of the public seeking entry into the United Kingdom but on average, 10 a day are refused entry at this London airport and between 2008 and 2009, 33,100 people were detained at the airport for mainly passport irregularities Getty Brexit Concerns A number of global investment giants have threatened to move their European operations out of London if Brexit proves to have a negative impact on their businesses Getty Brexit Concerns Following the possibility of a Brexit the UK would be released from its renewable energy targets under the EU Renewable Energy Directive and from EU state aid restrictions, potentially giving the government more freedom both in the design and phasing out of renewable energy support regimes Getty Brexit Concerns A woman looking at a chart showing the drop in the pound (Sterling) against the US Dollar in London after Britain voted to leave the EU Getty Brexit Concerns Young protesters outside the Houses of Parliament in Westminster, to protest against the United Kingdom's decision to leave the EU following the referendum Getty Brexit Concerns Applications from Northern Ireland citizens for Irish Passports has soared to a record high after the UK Voted in favour of Leaving the EU Getty Brexit Concerns NFU Vice President Minette Batters with Secretary of State, Andrea Leadsome at the National Farmers Union (NFU) took machinery, produce, farmers and staff to Westminster to encourage Members of Parliament to back British farming, post Brexit Getty Brexit Concerns The latest reports released by the UK Cabinet Office warn that expats would lose a range of specific rights to live, to work and to access pensions, healthcare and public services. The same reports added that UK citizens abroad would not be able to assume that these rights will be guaranteed in the future Getty Brexit Concerns A British resident living in Spain asks questions during an informative Brexit talk by the "Brexpats in Spain" group, about Spanish legal issues to become Spanish citizens, at the town hall in Benalmadena, Spain Reuters Brexit Concerns The collapse of Great Britain appears to have been greatly exaggerated given the late summer crowds visiting city museums, hotels, and other important tourist attractions Getty Brexit Concerns The U.K. should maintain European Union regulations covering everything from working hours to chemicals until after the government sets out its plans for Brexit, said British manufacturers anxious to avoid a policy vacuum and safeguard access to their biggest export market Getty

Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos earlier this month, the boss of UBSs investment bank, Andrea Orcel, said that his company would definitely have to move some jobs out of the UK as a result of Brexit, echoing similar remarks made by HSBCs chief executive Stuart Gulliver.

On Thursday, Reuters quoted a spokesman for Barclays in London saying that the banks had made clear repeatedly that we will plan for a range of Brexit contingencies, including building greater capacity into our existing operations in Dublin.
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Parts of the UK risk becoming cash deserts if a row over ATM fees is not resolved, an industry body warned on Friday.

Members of Link, the UK's cash machine network, met on Thursday in an attempt to resolve the dispute between some banks and independent cash machine providers.

No solution was found but members, which include all of the major high street banks, said a committee would be set up working to explore a way forward for the sustainability of the Link scheme.

Fears have been raised that more cash machines could start charging or disappear if current arrangements for sharing the cost of operating the network break down.

On Friday, the ATM Industry Association  a trade body  warned there were risks that cash deserts could be created. Its members, which operate cash machines across the country said up to 35 per cent of its machines would have to charge or be removed if charges were lowered.

Banks currently pay cash machine providers around 25p per transaction but some say the charges are too high and have demanded a reduction.

Data from the ATMIA found that the worst-hit regions are set to be rural south-west England, Scotland, and urban south-east England outside London, where respectively 44 per cent, 40 per cent and 33 per cent of independent, free cash machines would be at risk.

A study in January by consumer group Which? found these areas have already suffered the most bank branch closures. Which? said at the time that a total of 1,000 branches had closed across the country over the past two years.

Ron Delnevo, executive director for Europe at the ATMIA said: "With the question remaining over whether some banks will be willing to pay the true cost of providing ATMs, we still risk thousands of these cash points disappearing from the most vulnerable communities.

If any banks pull out of Link or charges are increased, the Payment Systems Regulator  the watchdog for the 75 trillion payment systems industry in the UK  could step in.

Peter McNamara, the chief executive of ATM provider NoteMachine said his company was working very closely with banks to ensure that 98 per cent of transactions remain free at the point of usage.

Business news: In pictures Show all 13 1 /13 Business news: In pictures Business news: In pictures Flybe collapses Airline Flybe has collapsed. All future flights on the Exeter-based airline have been cancelled  leaving more than 2,300 staff facing an uncertain future, and wrecking the travel plans of hundreds of thousands of passengers. The chief executive, Mark Anderson, said: Europes largest independent regional airline has been unable to overcome significant funding challenges to its business. AFP via Getty Business news: In pictures Future product placement will be 'tailored to individual viewers' Marketing executives say that product placement in films and televison shows on streaming services such as Netflix may be tailored to individuals in future. For instance, if data shows that a viewer is a fan of pepsi, a billboard in the background of a shot would host an advert for pepsi, while for a viewer known to have different tastes it could be for Coca-Cola Paramount Business news: In pictures Corbyn wishes Amazon a happy birthday In a card sent to Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos on the company's 25th birthday, Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn writes: "You owe the British people millions in taxes that pay for the public services that we all rely on. Please pay your fair share" Business news: In pictures No deal, no tariffs The government has announced that it would slash almost all tariffs in the event of a no-deal Brexit. Notable exceptions include cars and meat, which will see tariffs in place to protect British farmers Getty Business news: In pictures Fingerprint payment NatWest is trialling a new bank card that will allow people to touch their hand to the card when paying rather than typing in a PIN number. The card will work by recognising the user's fingerprint NatWest/PA Wire Business news: In pictures Mahabis bust High-end slipper retailer Mahabis has gone into administration. 2 Jan 2019 Mahabis Business news: In pictures Costa Cola Coca-Cola has paid 3.9bn for Costa Coffee. A cafe chain is a new venture for the global soft drinks giant PA Business news: In pictures RIP Payday Loans A funeral procession for payday loans was held in London on September 2. The future of pay day lenders is in doubt after Wonga, Britain's biggest, went into administration on August 30 PA Business news: In pictures Musk irks investors and directors Elon Musk has concluded that Tesla will remain public. Investors and company directors were angry at Musk for tweeting unexpectedly that he was considering taking Tesla private and share prices had taken a tumble in the following weeks Getty Business news: In pictures Jaguar warning Iconic British car maker Jaguar Land Rover warned on July 5, 2018 that a "bad" Brexit deal could jeopardise planned investment of more than $100 billion, upping corporate pressure as the government heads into crucial talks AFP/Getty Business news: In pictures Spotif-IPO Spotify traded publically for the first time on the New York Stock Exchange on Tuesday. However, the company isn't issuing shares, but rather, shares held by Spotify's private investors will be sold AFP/Getty Business news: In pictures French blue passports The deadline to award a contract to make blue British passports after Brexit has been extended by two weeks following a request by bidder De La Rue. The move comes after anger at the announcement British passports would be produced by Franco-Dutch firm Gemalto when De La Rues contract ends in July. The British firm said Gemalto was chosen only because it undercut the competition, but the UK company also admitted that it was not the cheapest choice in the tendering process. Business news: In pictures Beast from the east economic impact The Beast from the East wiped 4m off of Flybes revenues due to flight cancellations, airport closures and delays, according to the budget airlines estimates. Flybe said it cancelled 994 flights in the three months to 31 March, compared to 372 in the same period last year.

The Andrew Tyrie, chairman of the Treasury Select Committee, speaking on Thursday, welcomed the fact that the dispute was now being examined but said: Widespread charging would be of considerable concern, particularly in rural areas and poorer urban neighbourhoods.

Link now have an opportunity to sort it out. If they dont, the Treasury Committee will almost certainly need to investigate.
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It is perhaps unfortunate that for most filmgoers their abiding memory of John Hurt will be of a monster bursting out of his ribcage in Alien. It is a classic moment, of course, one of the most celebrated and talked-about scenes in movie history, and thrust Hurt into the international spotlight at the relatively late age of 39. It was a role that came to him purely by accident. Fellow British actor Jon Finch had originally been cast as astronaut Kane but developed a debilitating illness on his first day of filming and had to be hospitalised. That night in a mild panic director Ridley Scott drove to Hurts Hampstead home and pitched the movie to him over the course of several hours. By 7.30 the next morning Hurt was in costume and in front of the cameras at Shepperton Studios.

From the age of nine this son of a Church of England clergyman knew he wanted to be an actor. There was a cinema right across the road from the vicarage where he grew up in south Derbyshire, only his rigorously middle-class parents had declared it out of bounds. On Saturday mornings he enviously watched the lines of children going inside. Several of the local children were also off-limits, like the cinema they were deemed too common and he wasnt allowed to play with them. Out of this emerged an unhappy and sometimes lonely child, despite the presence of an older brother and sister. That lonely, lost little boy was sometimes conjured up in his film performances, notably the Machiavellian Richard Rich in A Man for All Seasons (1966). As producer David Putnam once observed: Johns got a tremendous sadness in his eyes. And that may be an actors greatest asset, because he can convey pain.

The odd trip to the theatre was allowed and at school Hurt acted in plays. Performing on stage gave him he said, an extraordinary feeling that I was in the place that I was meant to be. Perhaps at last he had found a means to express himself, something he had been unable to do at home. Having grown up surrounded by religion, Hurt found himself at an early age in disagreement with the deeply conservative principles of his parents resulting in a distant relationship, particularly with his father. Being sent off to boarding school aged eight didnt help either. His fellow pupils were all boys and Hurts slender frame and high voice usually meant he was cast as the girl in plays. He took on the demanding part of Lady Bracknell at the age of 16.

The drama department aside, Hurt despised his schooling, where he suffered at the hands of the senior master, who turned out to be a serial abuser. His trick was to remove his two front false teeth and insert his tongue into boys mouths. It was an experience that affected Hurt deeply and the only part of his childhood that he was able to conjure up in later years with absolute clarity.

Although Hurts mother was an amateur actress, both parents were against him applying to drama school. Instead they encouraged him to follow his flair for painting, in the hope he might become an arts master. In 1959 Hurt won a scholarship to study at St Martins College of Art and Design in London, where he once painted Quentin Crisp who modelled nude for the students.

Renting his own studio, Hurt fell comparatively easily into the life of a bohemian art student and was a regular at the Colony Room, the famous Soho members-only drinking club where his friends and fellow imbibers included the likes of Francis Bacon. But his ambitions to act never left him and he dropped out of art college after a year, burning all his canvases, a decision he later regretted, and without his parents backing or support won another scholarship, this time to the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art where his classmates included Sarah Miles, Tom Courtenay and Ian McShane.

Leaving in 1962 Hurt quickly made his screen debut along with McShane in The Wild and the Willing (1962), an early Swinging Sixties drama about a group of students and their sexual exploits. For the next few years he concentrated mainly on theatre, winning a critics award in 1963 for most promising newcomer for his performance in Harold Pinters one-man play The Dwarfs. While appearing in the title role of David Halliwells Little Malcolm and His Struggle Against the Eunuchs, Hurt was spotted by Fred Zinnemann, the legendary director of High Noon and From Here To Eternity, who cast him in A Man for All Seasons (1966). That exposure led to more film roles: Sinful Davey (1969), John Hustons flawed historical romp, Mr Forbush and the Penguins (1971) and the 1974 film version of Little Malcolm, financed by George Harrison.

It was Hurts extraordinary performance as the defiantly homosexual Quentin Crisp in Thames Televisions 1975 drama The Naked Civil Servant that really put him on the map. Ironic since everyone he knew told him not to do it, that it would wreck his career, typecast him, that it was too controversial. After it was shown the screenwriter Robert Bolt wrote to Hurt saying how, after the initial shock of the subject matter, it became a story about the tenderness of the individual versus the cruelty of the crowd rather than an essay on homosexuality, which Hurt never believed it was anyway. And yet, the role was to become so indelibly linked with him that Crisp always referred to Hurt as, my representative here on earth.

The role of John Merrick in The Elephant Man brought Hurt an Oscar nomination in 1980 (Allstar/Brooksfilm/Studiocanal)

It was another memorable television performance, this time as a petulant Caligula in the BBCs I, Claudius (1976), that undoubtedly led Hurt to almost singlehandedly corner the market in misfits and outsiders; Everyone Ive ever played has been flawed, he once said. He especially seemed to be drawn, or producers liked to cast him as, victims. It was something he had already excelled in with his haunting portrayal of Timothy Evans, the man wrongly executed for the crimes of John Christie in the deeply unsettling 10 Rillington Place (1971). Other notable additions to Hurts roster of the fragile and the lost was the heroin-soaked Max in Alan Parkers Turkish-set prison drama Midnight Express (1978), for which he was Oscar-nominated, Orwells reluctant hero Winston Smith in Nineteen Eighty-Four (1984) and Stephen Ward, the man in the middle of the Profumo affair in Scandal (1989).

Perhaps Hurts archetypal outsider/victim role was the hideously deformed John Merrick in David Lynchs The Elephant Man (1980). It was less of a performance than an endurance test, requiring Hurt to submit to seven hours in makeup; he consumed raw eggs and orange juice through a straw to keep going. Somehow under all the prosthetics Hurt was able to express the humanity of Merrick, prompting his director to call him, Simply the greatest actor in the world. It was a performance that earned Hurt his second Oscar nomination.

Off-camera Hurt was not averse to courting headlines of a rather less noble kind. His private life was colourful to say the least. He was married four times and belonged to that group of hedonistic actors the press labelled hellraisers. He drank with OToole, Burton and Harris and was often seen insensible at his old haunt The Colony Room. He had his demons, no question about it, and his battle with alcohol would last into his sixties. As late as 2004 he was thrown out of the lap-dancing club Spearmint Rhino for boorish behaviour. It wasnt long after that incident Hurt gave up the drink simply because had he carried on it would have killed him. His fourth marriage to a former actress and classical pianist 25 years his junior, also appeared to have calmed him down and made him easier to live with. Wacky behaviour may seem like a lot of fun, but it usually isnt, he admitted. Its usually the sign of a very distressed person looking for something they cant find.

 Sir John Hurt: Stars pay tribute to "extraordinary talent"

Hurt never allowed his drinking habit to affect his work and he went on to become one of the busiest film actors in the country, appearing in Michael Ciminos infamous Heavens Gate (1980), playing The Fool to Oliviers King Lear in a TV adaptation, a jockey in Champions (1984), the real-life story of Bob Champion, who battled from cancer to win the Grand National, and a soulless hit man in Stephen Frears 1984 thriller The Hit. As an actor Hurt always relied heavily on his imagination and gut instinct rather than methodical research to bring a character to life on screen; he left that kind of work to the screenwriter. When he played Raskolnikov, the protagonist of Dostoyevskys Crime and Punishment in the BBCs 1979 adaptation, Hurt never bothered to read the novel until after hed played the part.

Never leading-man material in the traditional sense, Hurt saw himself as a character actor, much like one of his heroes Alec Guinness. His admiration for Guinness, who was well known for vanishing completely into a character, perhaps explains why in so many of his performances Hurt is almost unrecognisable, allowing the role to totally subsume him; unlike a star who is always recognisably them whatever the role theyre playing.

And then there was the voice, an extraordinarily rich and versatile tool, used most famously in the mid-to-late Eighties when Hurt provided the doom-laden narration for the earliest UK television campaign against Aids, accompanied by apocalyptic images of icebergs and falling monoliths.

In 2013 Hurt joined Matt Smith (left) and David Tennant (centre) in Doctor Who

As he got older, of course, the voice became more naturally croaky, a fact he blamed on Guinness and on Gauloises. His face too had grown weather-beaten, a depository for wrinkles along with melancholic eyes that gave him the distressed look of a commuter who always misses his train. Nevertheless, he remained heavily in demand, though far from choosy. Over the course of his career Hurt made well over 100 films. The problem with being so promiscuous an actor you end up making things like Captain Corellis Mandolin (2001). Perhaps the problem was Hurt never seemed ambitious enough, coveting few roles and chasing even fewer scripts.

Curiously his latter career is marked out by the sheer number of genre pictures he made: Harry Potter, Hellboy (2004), V for Vendetta (2005), Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (2008), even Doctor Who. There was more serious, studied work, however. He enjoyed his experience with Jim Jarmusch on Dead Man (1995), and believed Love and Death on Long Island (1997), in which he played a stodgy British novelist who falls in love with a teen film star played by Jason Priestley, to be among his best work. While he excelled in the lead role of Samuel Becketts Krapps Last Tape both on stage and television.

John Hurt, actor: born Shirebrook, Derbyshire, 22 January 1940; married Annette Robertson (1962-1964), Donna Peacock (1984-1990), Jo Dalton (1990-1996: 2 children), Anwen Rees-Myers (2005-2017)
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Charges against one of the journalists arrested while covering Donald Trumps inauguration have been dropped.

Prosecutors dismissed the felony charges against Evan Engel of Vocativ on Friday, which could have seen him face 10 years in prison and a $25,000 (19,900) fine if convicted.

US attorneys office spokesman William Miller said the decision had been reached following a review of evidence presented to us by law enforcement.

Vocativ editorial director Ben Reininga welcomed the news and said the senior producer had been serving a vital public interest.

Learning that one of our journalists was arrested while on assignment served as a chilling reminder that we must never take our First Amendment freedoms for granted, he said in a statement.

We are pleased that charges against Evan were dismissed and we look forward to continuing to do our work.

Writing on Twitter, Mr Engel wrote: Case DISMISSED. Thanks to Vocativ, the legal team, & all who reached out with support. My thoughts are with all journalists still charged.

At least five other journalists arrested during the inauguration are reportedly still facing charges, according to the Guardian.

The Committee to Protect Journalists said the arrests send a chilling message.

"These charges are clearly inappropriate, and we are concerned that they could send a chilling message to journalists covering future protests," said Carlos Lauria, senior Americas program coordinator.

"We call on authorities in Washington to drop these charges immediately."
Christina Waage will be the second Miss Norway ever to win Miss Universe if she becomes Pia Alonzo Wurtbach's successor. The first and only Miss Norway to win Miss Universe is Mona Grudt, who was crowned in 1990.



Waage is a union leader for Red Cross in Nes, Norway, where she was born. A nursing student, she wants to help children with disabilities if crowned Miss Universe 2016.



Advertisement

On Jan. 30, Monday, Wurtzbach will crown her successor at the Mall of Asia Arena, Pasay, Metro Manila, Philippines. The musical performers during the Miss Universe 2016 coronation night are Boys II Men and Flo Rida.



Steve Harvey is returning as the host of the coronation night with "America's Next Top Model" judge Ashley Graham as the backstage host. The former arrived in Manila on Jan. 28, Saturday, ABS-CBN News reported.



With a new format, Top 12 will be chosen from the preliminary competition and will be announced during the coronation night. The semifinalists will then be trimmed down to Top 9, from which six will be selected to undergo one Q&A round. In the final round, the Top 3 candidates will only get a final look from the judges and fans before the second runner-up, first runner-up and the winner are announced.



The judging panel during the coronation night includes Miss Universe 1993 Dayanara Torres from Puerto Rico, Miss Universe 1994 Sushmita Sen from India and Miss Universe 2011 Leila Lopes from Angola. Joining them are theatrical, TV and film producer Francine LeFrak, Paper Magazine editorial director Mickey Boardman and "The Real Housewives of Atlanta" star Cynthia Bailey.



On Jan. 18, Wurtzbach participated in a dinner program in Baguio City, Philippines, which was hosted by Miss Universe 2011 third runner-up Shamcey Supsup. Distinguished people of the city welcomed them along with some Miss Universe 2016 candidates including Waage.



Before arriving in the Philippines, Waage was busy with schoolwork while looking forward to the upcoming beauty pageant. She told Raumnes that travelling around Wurtzbach's home country, aside from the photo shoots, will be exciting.



Have a glimpse of Waage's visit in Baguio here:






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Campaigners are urging people to stage the biggest protest ever in London, when Donald Trump comes to the UK on a state visit later this year.

Anti-Trump campaigners took to social media to call for a demonstration in the streets of the capital after Theresa May revealed the US President had accepted an invitation from the Queen.

Many reacted with fury at the announcement, which was made during a joint press conference in the White House on Friday.

 "There goes that relationship" - Donald Trump jokes about direct BBC question

Tom London tweeted: When Trump [....] comes to the UK, let's have the biggest demo ever to let him and the world know he's not welcome by the British people.

Another person wrote: Well done to her majesty for inviting Mr Trump to our country. Show him London he might even be able to spot a British person.

Ronnie Joice added: When Trump comes to the UK, we need to organise the largest protest march ever staged. Bring London to a total standstill.

On Facebook , Kevin Wilsher also wrote: Looks like we may have some more protests coming in London. .....the Queen has invited Trump to visit #justsaying.

A Facebook event has already been created by the organisation Stand Up To Racism to protest Mr Trumps visit to the UK.

Thousands attend Women's March on Washington Show all 18 1 /18 Thousands attend Women's March on Washington Thousands attend Women's March on Washington Protesters gather outside the White House at the finish of the Women's March on Washington on January 21, 2017 in Washington, DC. Large crowds attended the anti-Trump rally a day after U.S. President Donald Trump was sworn in as the 45th U.S. president. Getty Thousands attend Women's March on Washington Protesters hold up signage near the Washington Monument during the Women's March on Washington January 21, 2017 in Washington, DC. Large crowds are attending the anti-Trump rally a day after U.S. President Donald Trump was sworn in as the 45th U.S. president. Drew Angerer/Getty Thousands attend Women's March on Washington Protesters gather during the Women's March on Washington January 21, 2017 in Washington, DC. The march is expected to draw thousands from across the country to protest newly inaugurated President Donald Trump. Aaron P. Bernstein/Getty Thousands attend Women's March on Washington Protesters arrive at the Capital South Metro station for the Women's March on Washington on January 21, 2017 in Washington, DC. Following the inauguration of Donald Trump as the 45th president of the United States, the Women's March has spread to be a global march calling on all concerned citizens to stand up for equality, diversity and inclusion and for women's rights to be recognised around the world as human rights. Jessica Kourkounis/Getty Thousands attend Women's March on Washington Protesters arrive on the platform at the Capital South Metro station for the Women's March on Washington on January 21, 2017 in Washington, DC. Following the inauguration of Donald Trump as the 45th president of the United States, the Women's March has spread to be a global march calling on all concerned citizens to stand up for equality, diversity and inclusion and for women's rights to be recognised around the world as human rights. Jessica Kourkounis/Getty Thousands attend Women's March on Washington Demonstrators protest during the Women's March along Pennsylvania Avenue January 21, 2017 in Washington, DC. Hundreds of thousands of protesters spearheaded by women's rights groups demonstrated across the US to send a defiant message to US President Donald Trump. Joshua Lott/AFP/Getty Images Thousands attend Women's March on Washington WASHINGTON, DC - JANUARY 21: Protesters attend the Women's March on Washington on January 21, 2017 in Washington, DC. Following the inauguration of Donald Trump as the 45th president of the United States, the Women's March has spread to be a global march calling on all concerned citizens to stand up for equality, diversity and inclusion and for women's rights to be recognised around the world as human rights. Jessica Kourkounis/Getty Thousands attend Women's March on Washington A marcher holds a sign during the Women's March on Washington January 21, 2017 in Washington, DC. The march is expected to draw thousands from across the country to protest newly inaugurated President Donald Trump. Aaron P. Bernstein/Getty Thousands attend Women's March on Washington A woman chants while attending the Women's March on Washington on January 21, 2017 in Washington, DC. Large crowds are attending the anti-Trump rally a day after U.S. President Donald Trump was sworn in as the 45th U.S. president. Mario Tama/Getty Thousands attend Women's March on Washington Protesters attend the Women's March on Washington on January 21, 2017 in Washington, DC. Large crowds are attending the anti-Trump rally a day after U.S. President Donald Trump was sworn in as the 45th U.S. president. Mario Tama/Getty Thousands attend Women's March on Washington Protesters march in Washington, DC, during the Women's March on January 21, 2017. Hundreds of thousands of people flooded US cities Saturday in a day of women's rights protests to mark President Donald Trump's first full day in office. Robyn Beck/AFP/Getty Images Thousands attend Women's March on Washington A protester gestures toward the White House on the Ellipse near the South Lawn of the White House during the Women's March on Washington January 21, 2017 in Washington, DC. Large crowds are attending the anti-Trump rally a day after U.S. President Donald Trump was sworn in as the 45th U.S. president. Drew Angerer/Getty Thousands attend Women's March on Washington A protester, holding a Donald Trump doll wearing a pink cap, marches in Washington, DC, during the Womens March on January 21, 2017. Hundreds of thousands of people flooded US cities Saturday in a day of women's rights protests to mark President Donald Trump's first full day in office. Robyn Beck/AFP/Getty Images Thousands attend Women's March on Washington Protesters take to the National Mall to demonstrate against the presidency of Donald Trump Washington, DC on January 21, 2017. Hundreds of thousands of protesters spearheaded by women's rights groups demonstrated across the US to send a defiant message to US President Donald Trump. Dominick Reuter/AFP/Getty Images Thousands attend Women's March on Washington Protesters march during the Women's March on Washington on January 21, 2017 in Washington, DC. Large crowds are attending the anti-Trump rally a day after U.S. President Donald Trump was sworn in as the 45th U.S. president. Mario Tama/Getty Thousands attend Women's March on Washington Demonstrators gather on The Ellipse during the Women's March on Washington January 21, 2017 in Washington, DC. Hundreds of thousands of protesters spearheaded by women's rights groups demonstrated across the US to send a defiant message to US President Donald Trump. Zach Gibson/AFP/Getty Images Thousands attend Women's March on Washington Demonstrators march down Pennsylvania Avenue during the Women's March on Washington January 21, 2017 in Washington, DC. Hundreds of thousands of protesters spearheaded by women's rights groups demonstrated across the US to send a defiant message to US President Donald Trump. Zach Gibson/AFP/Getty Images Thousands attend Women's March on Washington Protester's signs are left near the White House during the Women's March on Washington on January 21, 2017 in Washington, DC. Large crowds are attending the anti-Trump rally a day after U.S. President Donald Trump was sworn in as the 45th U.S. president. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images) Mario Tama/Getty

The event has been temporarily organised for July 1, but it will be changed when a date for the visit is confirmed.

Stop the War, Peoples Assembly and Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (CND) are also backing the event and are urging people to oppose Trump's racism, sexism and bigotry.

The invitation to Donald Trump for a state visit will be opposed by millions in Britain. Our government should not be seen to be endorsing the sorts of ideas and policies he is putting forward, the event description adds.

It comes after thousands of people took to the streets of London as part of the Womens March campaign, which took place around the world following Mr Trumps inauguration.

He has since made a series of widely condemned statements and signed a number of controversial executive orders, including those effectively banning all refugees and visitors from some Muslim-majority countries.
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Shadow Business Secretary Clive Lewis has said he will vote against triggering Article 50 unless the Government accepts a series of amendments to the Brexit bill.

The Labour frontbencher said he would vote in favour of a second reading of the bill next week, although he would not commit to a vote to trigger Article 50 until the legislation is amended.

MPs were given just five days to debate Theresa May's 130-word bill, which was kept strikingly brief to deter opposition attempts to shape the Brexit process.

However, shadow Brexit Secretary Keir Starmer confirmed a series of amendments had been tabled by the Labour party, including a requirement for a vote in Parliament before a final exit deal is agreed.

Other amendments included guaranteeing full legal rights for EU nationals living in the UK and for Brexit Secretary David Davis to report at least every two months on negotiation progress.

Unless we change where were heading in the next few weeks on Brexit were stuffed. Were potentially heading to bargain basement Britain, Mr Lewis wrote on Facebook.

Labours amendments attempt to ensure we have the closest relationship to Europe and the single market as possible IF THE GOVT [sic] DOES NOT ACCEPT THESE AMENDMENTS, I WILL VOTE AGAINST TRIGGERING ARTICLE 50 AT THE THIRD AND FINAL VOTE.

Mr Lewis stance puts him in a precarious position after Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn imposed a three-line whip on the Brexit vote.

Labour MP for Hampstead Tulip Siddiq resigned her front bench position as shadow early years minister following Mr Corbyns decision.

Shadow Welsh secretary Jo Stevens followed suit shortly after, citing pressure from her constituents to vote against the Article 50 bill.

In her resignation letter to the Labour leader Ms Siddiq said: I have always been clear  I do not represent Westminster in Hampstead and Kilburn, I represent Hampstead and Kilburn in Westminster. I feel that the most effective place for me to counter Theresa Mays hard Brexit is from the back benches.

A number of other front bench MPs are also understood to have threatened to resign over the issue.
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Labours deputy leader Tom Watson has called on UK citizens to buy British in response to President Donald Trumps repeated pledge to put America first  placing him at odds with party leader Jeremy Corbyn.

In a controversial speech, Mr Watson said the UK could experience a Brexit bounce when it leaves the EU and questioned the prevailing belief that free trade was always a good thing.

As politicians and the media rush to condemn Mr Trump, Mr Watson suggested people should keep an open mind about the new Presidents policies.

Speaking at the Co-operative Party Economic Conference in London, Mr Watson said: If Trump says buy American, our rational response is buy British.

Yet to say buy British these days risks sneering derision from much of Britains commentariat and chattering classes, few of whom have been on a factory floor lately. When did you last hear Theresa May say it?

He argued that the creation of a national investment bank could benefit the UK by prioritising investment in industries that make goods currently imported from overseas.

Mr Watson said the election of Mr Trump added real uncertainty to global trading arrangements, against a backdrop of significantly increased economic nationalism.

But the MP, who has a background in trade unionism, asked: What if he does bring back the manufacturing jobs to America?

What if the interests of the rust-belt workers, who had their lives turned upside down by cheap imports from China, are prioritised over the ideological beliefs of Davos habitues?

The speech places the deputy leader in a different position from the one recently adopted by Mr Corbyn, who has said he wants Britain to seek full tariff-free access to the single market on leaving the EU.

Historically, however, Mr Corbyn has been a Eurosceptic, opposing every major European treaty since voting against EEC membership in 1975.

In September last year, Mr Corbyn attacked EU free market dogma in the Commons, saying it was damaging the economies in many developing countries.

Mr Watson is the MP for West Bromwich East, which voted Remain but is in the Black Country, where a majority of the surrounding constituencies opted for Brexit.

Although Mr Watson campaigned to remain, he has always said he accepts the Brexit decision and has attacked the Liberal Democrats for saying they would vote against triggering Article 50.

The deputy leader argued that Mr Trump might have a point when he says the Chinese have taken American jobs in manufacturing.

You can make a cogent case that the debt-fuelled growth of China has given Chinese corporations who receive forms of hidden state subsidies an unfair advantage in Western markets, he said.

Indeed, Trump used the export of manufacturing jobs to China as a devastating political weapon.

And Mr Watson argued that many in the trade union movement had questioned the wisdom of free trade agreements for years.

Now those international trade agreements Donald Trump is ripping up with gusto have also been the focus of opposition by organised labour, and for good reason: they also prohibit states from protecting workers, he said.

For the UK to ignore the early signs of a global reformation of international trading arrangements would be a mistake.

True colours? Is Blue Labour the way forward for the left? Show all 4 1 /4 True colours? Is Blue Labour the way forward for the left? True colours? Is Blue Labour the way forward for the left? 612541.bin GETTY IMAGES True colours? Is Blue Labour the way forward for the left? 612415.bin AFP True colours? Is Blue Labour the way forward for the left? 612416.bin AFP True colours? Is Blue Labour the way forward for the left? 612417.bin Rex Features

Mr Watson suggested the UK was arguably too dependent on the financial sector, particularly at a time when a number of banks are apparently planning post-Brexit moves to Germany.

He quoted the economist Robert Skidelsky in calling for rapid expansion to substitute goods currently imported with domestically produced goods to the UK.

His views highlight the difficulties the Labour Party is having reconciling itself to Brexit after the vast majority of its MPs campaigned to remain but many of its traditional voters opted to leave.

This week, a handful of Labour frontbenchers resigned their posts after Mr Corbyn said he would impose a three-line whip on his MPs instructing them to vote to trigger Article 50.

Mr Corbyn, Mr Watson and many other Labour MPs have said they will not obstruct the will of the people when the bill comes before Parliament  but other MPs, including Tulip Siddiq and Jo Stevens, both of whom represent strongly pro-Remain seats, said they will listen to the views of their constituents.
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The UK and the US will begin work immediately on a new negotiating pact to pave the way for a full trade deal to come into force after Brexit.

The announcement, which will raise eyebrows in Brussels, follows Theresa Mays visit to the White House in which she and Donald Trump agreed to deepen relations.

Giving new details about the visit, Downing Street said the story behind pictures of the pair arm-in-arm is that Mr Trump offered his hand to Ms May in a chivalrous gesture to help her down a ramp.

It also emerged Mr Trump said he wanted Ms May to be the first person he sees when he arrives on a state visit to see the Queen, and that he told an official to store away the White House menu card for their lunch together as a memento of their meeting.

At the lunch, the pair agreed the first step towards cementing a post-Brexit relationship would be a new trade negotiation agreement with high-level talks about it beginning immediately.

Ms May said: This is the first step leading to a future trade deal with the US which could provide huge benefits to our economic muscle and will give businesses additional certainty and confidence.

The pair agreed their governments would establish UK/US working groups to start scoping out what could be achieved before Brexit.

Early moves could involve removing mobile phone roaming charges, mutual recognition of professional qualifications, removing red tape and removal of non-tariff barriers blocking UK exports of certain agriculture and food products.

They hope it will mean a new trade agreement is ready as soon as possible after the UK has formally left the EU.

Mr Trump pledged to ensure trade arrangements that the UK currently has with the US through its EU membership would continue in place at the moment of Brexit, in a bid to provide certainty to businesses in both the UK and the US.

Images of the pair walking hand-in-hand spread across the globe as the two leaders sought to convince the world that relations between them and their nations were stronger than ever.

The meeting allowed Mr Trump to show he is not a pariah on the world stage, while the promise of a US trade deal gives Ms May leverage in Brexit talks with EU leaders, expected to take place later this year.

The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Show all 9 1 /9 The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the media White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer takes questions during the daily press briefing Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the Trans-Pacific Partnership Union leaders applaud US President Donald Trump for signing an executive order withdrawing the US from the Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations during a meeting in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington DC. Mr Trump issued a presidential memorandum in January announcing that the US would withdraw from the trade deal Getty The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the Mexico wall A US Border Patrol vehicle sits waiting for illegal immigrants at a fence opening near the US-Mexico border near McAllen, Texas. The number of incoming immigrants has surged ahead of the upcoming Presidential inauguration of Donald Trump, who has pledged to build a wall along the US-Mexico border. A signature campaign promise, Mr Trump outlined his intention to build a border wall on the US-Mexico border days after taking office Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and abortion US President Donald Trump signs an executive order as Chief of Staff Reince Priebus looks on in the Oval Office of the White House. Mr Trump reinstated a ban on American financial aide being granted to non-governmental organizations that provide abortion counseling, provide abortion referrals, or advocate for abortion access outside of the United States Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the Dakota Access pipeline Opponents of the Keystone XL and Dakota Access pipelines hold a rally as they protest US President Donald Trump's executive orders advancing their construction, at Columbus Circle in New York. US President Donald Trump signed executive orders reviving the construction of two controversial oil pipelines, but said the projects would be subject to renegotiation Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and 'Obamacare' Nancy Pelosi who is the minority leader of the House of Representatives speaks beside House Democrats at an event to protect the Affordable Care Act in Los Angeles, California. US President Donald Trump's effort to make good on his campaign promise to repeal and replace the healthcare law failed when Republicans failed to get enough votes. Mr Trump has promised to revisit the matter Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Donald Trump and 'sanctuary cities' US President Donald Trump signed an executive order in January threatening to pull funding for so-called "sanctuary cities" if they do not comply with federal immigration law AP The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the travel ban US President Donald Trump has attempted twice to restrict travel into the United States from several predominantly Muslim countries. The first attempt, in February, was met with swift opposition from protesters who flocked to airports around the country. That travel ban was later blocked by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. The second ban was blocked by a federal judge a day before it was scheduled to be implemented in mid-March SANDY HUFFAKER/AFP/Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and climate change US President Donald Trump sought to dismantle several of his predecessor's actions on climate change in March. His order instructed the Environmental Protection Agency to reevaluate the Clean Power Plan, which would cap power plant emissions Shannon Stapleton/Reuters

But with pictures of the awkward moment splashed across the front pages of newspapers, a Downing Street spokeswoman said: If you watch the video, theyre walking along and there is an unseen ramp.

He offered his hand, which she took as they stepped down the ramp.

She agreed that it was a chivalrous gesture, putting to bed rumours that Mr Trump had needed help down the ramp.

One outlandish claim doing the rounds was that the President is scared of stairs.

The spokeswoman also revealed the President collects menus, explaining: At the end of the lunch, he said that he always kept menu cards to remember significant moments.

He gave the menu card to one of his members of staff and said keep that safe, I had lunch with the British Prime Minister.

Mr Trump was then said to have repeated several times that it was really important to see Ms May first when he comes to the UK for the state visit.

In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump Show all 32 1 /32 In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump London An image of President Donald Trump is seen on a placard during the Women's March in London, England Getty In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump Sydney A view of the skywriting word reading 'Trump' as thousands rally in support of equal rights in Sydney, New South Wales EPA In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump Rome People shout and hold signs during a rally against US newly sworn-in President Donald Trump in Rome Getty Images In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump London A protester holds a placard during the Women's March in London, England Getty Images In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump Marseille A placard ready 'Pussy grabs back' is attached to the handle bar of a bike during a 'Women's March' organized by Feminist and human rights groups in solidarity with women marching in Washington and around the world for their rights and against the reactionary politics of the newly sworn-in US President Donald Trump, at the Old Port (Vieux Port) of Marseille, southern France Getty Images In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump Bangkok A young Thai girl holds a "women's rights are human rights" sign at Roadhouse BBQ restaurant where many of the Bangkok Womens March participants gathered in Bangkok, Thailand Getty Images In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump Bangkok A Thai woman takes a photo of a "hate is not great" sign at the women's solidarity gathering in Bangkok, Thailand Getty Images In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump Bangkok American expats and travellers gather with the international community in Bangkok at the Roadhouse BBQ restaurant to stand in solidarity in Bangkok, Thailand Getty Images In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump London Protetesters gather outside The US Embassy in Grosvenor Square ahead of the Women's March in London, England Getty Images In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump Marseille Women's March at the Old Port (Vieux Port) of Marseille, southern France Getty Images In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump Marseille Protestors hold placards reading 'My body my choice, my vote my voice' during a 'Women's March' organized by Feminist and human rights groups in solidarity with women marching in Washington and around the world for their rights and against the reactionary politics of the newly sworn-in US President Donald Trump, at the Old Port (Vieux Port) of Marseille, southern France Getty Images In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump Rome A person holds a sign during a rally against US newly sworn-in President Donald Trump in Rome Getty Images In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump Kolkata Activist Sarah Annay Williamson holds a placard and shouts slogan during the Women's March rally in Kolkata, India AP In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump Kolkata Activists participate in the Women's March rally in Kolkata, India AP In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump London A Women's March placards are rested on a bench outside the US Embassy in Grosvenor Square ahead of the Women's March in London, England Getty Images In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump London A women carries her placard ahead of the Women's March in London, England Getty Images In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump Manila Women protesters shout slogans while displaying placards during a rally in solidarity against the inauguration of President Donald Trump, in suburban Quezon city, northeast of Manila, Philippines AP In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump Berlin Protesters attend a 'Berlin Women's March on Washington' demonstration in front of the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany AP In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump Berlin Protesters attend a 'Berlin Women's March on Washington' demonstration in front of the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany AP In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump Berlin Protesters attend a 'Berlin Women's March on Washington' demonstration in front of the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany AP In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump Melbourne Protesters take part in the Melbourne rally to protest against the Trump Inauguration in Melbourne, Australia Getty Images In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump Macau Protesters take part in the Women's March rally in Macau Getty Images In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump Melbourne Womens march on Melbourne protestors marching during a rally where rights groups marched in solidarity with Americans to speak out against misogyny, bigotry and hatred Rex In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump Macau Protesters hold placards as they take part at the Women's March rally in Macau Getty Images In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump Macau Protesters hold placards as they take part at the Women's March rally in Macau, Macau. The Women's March originated in Washington DC but soon spread to be a global march calling on all concerned citizens to stand up for equality, diversity and inclusion and for women's rights to be recognised around the world as human rights Getty Images In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump Manila A mother carries her son as they join a rally in solidarity against the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump as the 45th President of the United States in suburban Quezon city northeast of Manila, Philippines AP In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump Sydney An infant is held up at a demonstration against new U.S. President Donald Trump in Sydney, Australia Getty Images In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump Sydney A woman attends a demonstration against new U.S. President Donald Trump in Sydney, Australia Getty Images In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump Sydney A woman expresses her Anti-Trump views in Sydney, Australia Getty Images In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump Sydeney Protesters demonstrate against new U.S. President Donald Trump in Sydney, Australia. The marches in Australia were organised to show solidarity with those marching on Washington DC and around the world in defense of women's rights and human rights Getty In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump London Protesters march from The US Embassy in Grosvenor Square towards Trafalgar Square during the Women's March in London, England Getty In pictures: Women of the world march against Trump London Protesters carrying banners take part in the Women's March on London, as they stand in Trafalgar Square, in central London Reuters

The spokeswoman went on: They [May and Trump] referred to the time that Thatcher took over Britain and the large challenges that she faced, and agreed that they had a shared admiration for her.

Trump went on to say that he always looked up to Reagan and said that he wanted their relationship to be even better than that one.

The conversation they had was described as warm, free-flowing and unscripted with the Brexit vote featuring heavily, although Nigel Farage was mentioned only in passing.
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Five families are being made homeless in England every hour of the day, according to a shocking new analysis of Government figures.

In the last year alone, 43,140 families were accepted as homeless by their local council  a rise of 32 per cent over the last five years, according to the latest figures put out by the Department for Communities and Local Government.

The housing charity Shelter has use the figures to forecast that around 3,600 families will be made homeless in the next month, an estimate they say is conservative.

Recommended Rough sleeping rises by 16 per cent in a single year

This figure amounts to one family losing their home every 12 minutes, or five families per hour.

Graeme Brown, the charitys interim chief executive, told The Independent that the problem was a drought of affordable homes leading to a crisis.

Its shocking that every hour, five families in England are predicted to become homeless as a direct result of our worsening housing crisis, he said.

At Shelter, we regularly hear from homeless families who are forced to live in one room of a cramped hostel or emergency B&B together, eat their meals off the floor and make siblings share a bed.

Sadly, with a drought of affordable homes and crippling welfare cuts, we expect to hear from even more of them in the future.

Yet it doesnt have to be this way. The Government has the power to provide homes that people on lower incomes can realistically afford to live in. In the meantime, we need the public to help Shelter raise vital funds so that we can continue to provide frontline support to every homeless family that needs us.

The charity is launching a fundraising drive called Vertical Rush  challenging participants to run up a 42-floor skyscraper called Tower 42 in London in an event to be staged in March.

Labours shadow housing minister John Healey said the figures were a terrible reminder of the consequences of Conservative Ministers seven years of failure on housing.

This rising problem is a direct result of decisions made by Conservative Ministers: a steep drop in investment for affordable homes, crude cuts to housing benefit, reduced funding for homelessness services, and a refusal to help private renters, he said.

Ministers long-promised housing white paper will fall at the first hurdle if it does not set out how they will end the national shame of rough sleeping, as Labour has committed to do.

The Government has pledged to build a million homes by 2020 but is currently not on course to meet its target at the current rate.

However, MPs today backed new backbench legislation  with the Governments blessing  to put a new duty on councils to intervene and house people who are at risk of becoming homeless.

The Homelessness Reduction Bill enjoys cross-party support but councils have raised concerns that they are not being properly resourced to fulfil their requirements under the new laws.

Rough sleeping is also on the rise, separate figures released this week show (Getty Images) (Getty)

A DCLG spokesperson acknowledged the analysis and pointed to the Governments support for the Homelessness Reduction Bill. He said the new legislation would help solve the problem.

This analysis does not take into account that were currently changing the law to prevent more people from becoming homeless, he said.

This is on top of 550 million investment until 2020 to tackle homelessness and rough sleeping, as well as government-funded projects in 225 local authorities.

Theresa May announced 20 million to help prevent homelessness at the end of last year, with the cash targeted at so-called Homelessness Prevention Trailblazers.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 4 November 2022 A peacock is seen in the early winter sunshine in the Dutch Gardens in Holland Park AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 3 November 2022 A villager cooks roti bread at the site of the annual Camel Fair in Pushkar, in India's desert state of Rajasthan AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 2 November 2022 A red squirrel gathers nuts in Pitlochry, Scotland Reuters UK news in pictures 1 November 2022 Englands Tara-Jane Stanley scores their sides seventh try against Brazil during the Womens Rugby League World Cup group A match at Headingley Stadium, Leeds PA UK news in pictures 31 October 2022 GBs James Hall competes during the mens parallel bars qualification at the World Gymnastics Championships in Liverpool AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 30 October 2022 People dressed in Halloween costumes paddle board along the river Avon in Christchurch, Dorset PA UK news in pictures 29 October 2022 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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. 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Council services are currently overstretched, however. Research reported by The Independent at the end of last year shows up to a third of homeless young people are being turned away when they seek help from their local authority.

Only 67 per cent of 16 to 24-year-olds seeking help were recorded as getting some sort of assistance from their local authority, according to a freedom of information request by the charity Centrepoint.

Separate official figures relating specifically to rough sleeping released on Wednesday this week showed a 16 per cent rise in 2016 compared to 2015.

An increasing proportion of rough sleepers are also recorded as suffering from mental health issues compared to five years ago, a breakdown of the statistics shows.
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Theresa May has repeatedly refused to condemn Donald Trumps ban on refugees and entry for citizens of seven Muslim-majority nations after meeting with Turkish leaders.

She was speaking just a day after meeting the new President in Washington, where the pair pledged their commitment to the special relationship between Britain and the US.

After agreeing a controversial 100 million fighter jet deal amid wide-ranging purges and security crackdowns following an attempted coup against President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Ms May held a joint press conference with Prime Minister Binali Yldrm.

 When May met Trump - five key points from the leaders' press conference

Their talks were overshadowed by global debate over Mr Trumps executive order to ban Syrian refugees from entering the US indefinitely, halt all other asylum admissions for 120 days and suspend travel visas for citizens of countries of particular concern, including Syria, Iraq and other Muslim-majority nations.

Faisal Islam, the political editor of Sky News, asked Ms May whether she viewed it as an action of the leader of the free world.

The Prime Minister replied that she was very pleased to have met Mr Trump in Washington, before evading the question by hailing Turkeys reception of millions of refugees and Britains support for its government and other nations surrounding Syria.

When pressed for a second time for her view by another British journalist, Ms May continued: The United States is responsible for the United States policy on refugees, the United Kingdom is responsible for the United Kingdoms policy on refugees.

Yvette Cooper, the former shadow Home Secretary, sent a letter to the Prime Minister urging her to echo condemnation from French and German ministers over the deeply troubling executive order.

Ed Miliband, the former Labour leader, said the Prime Minister's refusal to condemn Mr Trump's Muslim ban is shocking, wrong and cannot stand.

He added: It flies in the face of the values of people across Britain.

Mr Yldrm was more direct, calling the crisis a global issue and saying that UN members cannot turn a blind eye to this issue and settle it by constructing walls.

Nobody leaves their homes for nothing, they came here to save their lives and our doors were openand we would do it again, he added. If there is someone in need, you need to give them a helping hand to make sure they survive.

The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Show all 9 1 /9 The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the media White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer takes questions during the daily press briefing Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the Trans-Pacific Partnership Union leaders applaud US President Donald Trump for signing an executive order withdrawing the US from the Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations during a meeting in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington DC. Mr Trump issued a presidential memorandum in January announcing that the US would withdraw from the trade deal Getty The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the Mexico wall A US Border Patrol vehicle sits waiting for illegal immigrants at a fence opening near the US-Mexico border near McAllen, Texas. The number of incoming immigrants has surged ahead of the upcoming Presidential inauguration of Donald Trump, who has pledged to build a wall along the US-Mexico border. A signature campaign promise, Mr Trump outlined his intention to build a border wall on the US-Mexico border days after taking office Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and abortion US President Donald Trump signs an executive order as Chief of Staff Reince Priebus looks on in the Oval Office of the White House. Mr Trump reinstated a ban on American financial aide being granted to non-governmental organizations that provide abortion counseling, provide abortion referrals, or advocate for abortion access outside of the United States Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the Dakota Access pipeline Opponents of the Keystone XL and Dakota Access pipelines hold a rally as they protest US President Donald Trump's executive orders advancing their construction, at Columbus Circle in New York. US President Donald Trump signed executive orders reviving the construction of two controversial oil pipelines, but said the projects would be subject to renegotiation Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and 'Obamacare' Nancy Pelosi who is the minority leader of the House of Representatives speaks beside House Democrats at an event to protect the Affordable Care Act in Los Angeles, California. US President Donald Trump's effort to make good on his campaign promise to repeal and replace the healthcare law failed when Republicans failed to get enough votes. Mr Trump has promised to revisit the matter Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Donald Trump and 'sanctuary cities' US President Donald Trump signed an executive order in January threatening to pull funding for so-called "sanctuary cities" if they do not comply with federal immigration law AP The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the travel ban US President Donald Trump has attempted twice to restrict travel into the United States from several predominantly Muslim countries. The first attempt, in February, was met with swift opposition from protesters who flocked to airports around the country. That travel ban was later blocked by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. The second ban was blocked by a federal judge a day before it was scheduled to be implemented in mid-March SANDY HUFFAKER/AFP/Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and climate change US President Donald Trump sought to dismantle several of his predecessor's actions on climate change in March. His order instructed the Environmental Protection Agency to reevaluate the Clean Power Plan, which would cap power plant emissions Shannon Stapleton/Reuters

The Turkish Prime Minister brushed aside a question about wide-ranging human rights abuses in Turkey following the summers attempted coup, seeing thousands of people arrested or forced to leave government and military posts amid reports of torture in state prisons.

Ms May also evaded questions on her allys alleged abuses in the press conference, but had earlier urged Mr Erdogan to sustain democracy by maintaining the rule of law and upholding its international human rights obligations.

She and Mr Erdogan also discussed counter-terrorism, security, trade and migration in talks which stretched for an hour longer than scheduled.

Turkey has seen a succession of terror attacks by both Isis and Kurdish extremist groups since the start of the Syrian civil war, which caused millions of refugees to cross its border.

The US was among the countries resettling families from designated camps but Mr Trump has suspended all refugee admissions to the US for 120 days as part of measures he claimed would keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the US.

His order additionally banned Syrian refugees indefinitely until significant changes are made, and halved the annual cap on refugees to 50,000.

The President's executive order also suspends travel visas for anyone from seven predominantly Muslim countries, including Syria, Iraq, Libya and Iran, from entering the US for at least 90 days.

He claimed his administration needed time to develop more stringent screening processes for refugees, immigrants and visitors.

It provoked outcry from the United Nations and NGOs working to stem the worst ever global refugee crisis, with more than 65 million people forced to flee their homes.

Amnesty International warned the move could have catastrophic consequences, saying some of the worst fears about a Trump presidency were already being realised.

Salil Shetty, the groups secretary general, said: These men, women and children are the victims of the same terror President Trump claims he wants to fight against. The irony beggars belief.
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Long before the desert sun has had a chance to heat the dusty prison yard, 20 inmates at an Arizona state prison begin quietly tending horses. The men  many with violent histories  gently manoeuvre bits into the mouths of mustangs still unaccustomed to human touch; they remove caked mud from hooves and tighten girths against bulging bellies. And the horses, which just weeks ago roamed free, mostly comply with what is asked of them.

The men and the horses are still learning how to live behind fences. Prisoners taking part in the Wild Horse Inmate programme train mustangs that will eventually be adopted by the US Border Patrol, providing the agency with inexpensive but agile horses, and inmates with skills and insights they hope to one day carry away with them from prison.

For Brian Tierce, 49, who has served about five years of his seven-year sentence for domestic violence and assault, the horses have taught him "a lot of things I didn't know I had in me: patience, perseverance, kindness, understanding."

"I've got to be a compromising person, otherwise I'll never get this job done."

At least 80 per cent of the US Border Patrol's current stable of 400 horses come from inmate training programmes in Arizona, Colorado, Kansas and Nevada. The horses are critical for patrolling the rugged and remote stretches of the Mexican border to detect illegal crossings by migrants and drug trafficking. And, at $500 to $800 for a saddle-ready horse, the price is right. About 55,000 mustangs roam the Western United States, more than double the number public land can support, said Bureau of Land Management (BLM) spokesman Jason Lutterman. Those that do not end up in adoption programmes face an uncertain future.

At the prison in Florence, a cactus-dotted town about 140 miles north (225 km) of the Mexican border, prisoners round up their horses before dawn and work all day under the watchful eyes of Randy Helm, the third-generation rancher, former narcotics officer and self-proclaimed "cowboy preacher" who supervises the programme.

Over the course of four to six months, the men train their horses to tolerate bridles and saddles, respond to commands to trot and canter and perform footwork that will come in handy on the uneven desert terrain along the border.

Wild horses on the Mexican-US border Show all 13 1 /13 Wild horses on the Mexican-US border Wild horses on the Mexican-US border An inmate training a wild horse as part of the Wild Horse Florence State prison programme in Florence, Arizona Reuters Wild horses on the Mexican-US border The view shows Wah Wah Valley in Milford, Utah Reuters Wild horses on the Mexican-US border The trap corral is seen in the Wah Wah Valley where wild horses were herded during a Land Management round-up outside Milford, Utah Reuters Wild horses on the Mexican-US border Making a break for it: Mustangs are herded into corrals by a helicopter during a BLM round-up outside Milford, in Utah Reuters Wild horses on the Mexican-US border Time out: Border Patrol horses Hollywood (left) and Apache roll around the dirt at their patrol station in Boulevard, California Reuters Wild horses on the Mexican-US border Program manager Randy Helm looks over the names of horses being trained as part of the the Wild Horse Inmate Program (WHIP) at Florence State Prison in Florence, Arizona Reuters Wild horses on the Mexican-US border A wild mustang named Boss chews on the latch of a government transport trailer before going out with Border Patrol agents on patrol along the Mexico border near San Diego, California Reuters Wild horses on the Mexican-US border People in Mexico wave at Border Patrol agents on horseback patrolling the US-Mexico border fence near San Diego, California Reuters Wild horses on the Mexican-US border Inmates tending horses as part of the Inmate Program (WHIP) at Florence State Prison in Florence, Arizona Reuters Wild horses on the Mexican-US border Border Patrol agents on horseback head out on patrol along the border fence near Jacumba, California, U.S Reuters Wild horses on the Mexican-US border Pictures of horses hang on a wall at the border patrol station in Boulevard, California Reuters Wild horses on the Mexican-US border Border Patrol agents from Boulevard Station look out over a ridge after sunset near Jacumba, California Reuters Wild horses on the Mexican-US border Border Patrol supervisor Bobby Stine frisks a man a few hundred metres from the Mexico border fence near Jacumba, California Reuters

Helm, 62, teaches the men not to "break" the horses, but to "gentle" them. The method relies on incremental steps and rewarding the horses for good behaviour. Any inmate that raises a hand to a horse gets booted from the program. "It's more working on us than on them," said Rick Kline, 32, who has served five years of a seven and a half year sentence for stealing cars. "It's a new understanding of calming down."

He hopes to apply that skill of staying calm to parenting his two kids when he gets out of prison. Bret Karakey, 35, who is in prison for identity theft, recently broke his hip when he was thrown from a horse. But he came back without hesitation. "I kind of need this," he said.

Most prisoners who apply for the program don't have experience with horses, and Helm prefers it that way. They tend to be gentler with the animals.

Florence began its horse training programme in 2012, and while it is too early to assess the long-term effects on participating inmates, of the 50 or so who have gone through it and been released, none has returned to prison, Helm said. The national recidivism rate is about 68 percent within three years of release. Helm says he sees real transformations in inmates who stay with the programme.

"A lot of them haven't really bonded with a person, let alone an animal," he said. "It's been really interesting to observe these guys' lives change."

Border Patrol adoptions are key to the government's effort to stem the nation's growing population of mustangs. A federal law passed in 1971 tasked the BLM with managing wild horse and burro populations in the American West, both to protect the animals and to ensure that vegetation was not overgrazed and water sources depleted. But with the soaring cost of hay and dwindling public interest in horse ownership, the BLM can place only about 2,000 into adoption each year, severely limiting the number it can capture from the open desert and plains, Lutterman said.

Reuters
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President Donald Trump has spoken with German Chancellor Angela Merkel - the European leader whom he criticised for her policy of welcoming refugees from Syria.

In 2015, Mr Trump tweeted that the German chancellor was ruining Germany.

Similarly, he compared his opponent Hillary Clinton to Angela Merkel, saying she wants to be Americas Angela Merkel and you know what a disaster the massive immigration has been to Germany and the people of Germany.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel attends a session of the German Bundestag (lower house of parliament) in Berlin (Getty Images)

However, in 2016, Mr Trump picked Ms Merkel as his favourite world leader, despite his criticism of her position on refugees.

Well, I think Merkel is a really great world leader, but I was very disappointed [in] this move with the whole immigration thing, he said in New Hampshire in September, according to New England Cable News.

 May refuses to condemn Muslim ban

More recently, in an interview with Germanys Bild and the Times, Mr Trump again said he respected Ms Merkel but that she made a catastrophic mistake and referred to a Tunisian asylum seeker who drove through a Christmas market killing 12 people.

Ms Merkel and Mr Trump spoke bout NATO, the situation in the Middle East and North Africa, their ties to Russia and the conflict in eastern Ukraine, according to a statement approved by both countries.

The leaders recognised that NATO must be capable of confronting 21st century threats and that our common defence requires appropriate investment in military capabilities to ensure all allies are contributing their fair share to our collective security, it said.

FindTheData | Graphiq

Former President Barack Obama also admired Ms Merkel and his last phone call as president was to Ms Merkel and during a press conference before leaving office, Mr Obama praised her work as she considers running for re-election in September.

Thats a matter for the German people, but I value Angelas leadership, said Mr Obama on whether she should be re-elected.

"If I were German and I had a vote I might support her. But I dont know whether that hurts or helps."
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Donald Trumps ban on refugees entering America has caused chaos, confusion and anger across the globe, as people were turned back from US-bound flights and others were detained on arrival at American airports.

Up to 12 people were being held at New York's JFK Airport, two of them Iraqis who had worked for the US in Iraq and had been targeted for doing so. As lawyers filed a lawsuit demanding their release, passengers at various airports, including places such as Cairo, were turned back. KLM announced it had refused carriage to the US to seven passengers from predominately Muslim countries.

Mr Trump denied that his executive order amount to a Muslim ban, but he said: "This is working out very nicely."

On Friday, Mr Trump signed a four-month hold on allowing refugees into the United States and temporarily barred travellers from Syria and six other Muslim-majority countries. He claimed the moves would protect Americans from terrorism. We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas, he said in a ceremony at the Pentagon, where he also signed an order to boost the US military.

The enforcement of the order sparked outcry, not just in the US, but around the world, where travellers to the US were immediately confronted with uncertainty and doubt. Mr Trump had spoken during the election campaign of his intention to heighten screening of refugees, but refugees from the seven countries affected already face intense vetting that can last up to five years.

This is a stupid, terrible decision which will hurt the American people more than us or anybody else, because it shows that this President cant manage people, politics or global relationships, Najeed Haidari, a Yemeni-American security manager for an oil company in the Yemeni capital Sanaa, told Reuters.

The bans affect travellers with passports from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen and even extends to green card holders who are granted authorisation to live and work in the United States, according to a Department of Homeland Security spokeswoman.

The news agency said that in Cairo, five Iraqi passengers and one Yemeni were barred from boarding an EgyptAir flight to New York on Saturday, according to sources at the airport.

The passengers, arriving in transit to Cairo airport, were stopped and re-directed to flights headed for their home countries despite holding valid visas, the sources said.

 May refuses to condemn Muslim ban

Betsy Fisher of the International Refugee Assistance Project, said of the ban: [This] announcement is a betrayal of the fundamentally American value of welcoming those who are fleeing persecution. The US refugee programme is essential to US foreign relations and national security. Abandoning refugees means abandoning American humanitarian leadership.

Mana Yegani, an immigration lawyer in Houston, who works with the American Immigration Lawyers Association, said Customs and Border Patrol agents at many airports were unaware of the executive order early on Friday evening. She said she had spent the night fielding calls from travellers with student and worker visas who were being denied entry to the US.

Green card holders were also being stopped and questioned for several hours. Officials also denied travellers with dual Canadian and Iranian citizenship from boarding planes in Canada that were headed the United States, she said.

These are people that are coming in legally. They have jobs here and they have vehicles here, she told Reuters.

One of the two Iraqis held in New York, Hameed Khalid Darweesh, had worked on behalf of the US government in Iraq for 10 years. The other man, Haider Sameer Abdulkhaleq Alshawi, had flown to the US to join his wife, who had worked for a US contractor.

Mr Darweeh was eventually released after the intervention of local politicians and lawyers. Mr Darweesh thanked the people who had worked to set him free.

This is the humanity. This is the soul of America. This is what pushed me to leave my country to move here, he said. Im very, very thankful to the people who came to support me.
India and Russia can Now Sell BrahMos Cruise Missile to Other Countries

BrahMos battery. (Photo : Indian Army)

Russia and India announced they can now sell their jointly developed BrahMos cruise missile -- the world's fastest -- to other countries.



BrahMos is a joint venture between the Russia's NPO Mashinostroeyenia (Machine-Building Research and Development Consortium) and India's Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) that together form BrahMos Aerospace, the maker of the missile.



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NPO Mashinostroeyenia CEO and General Designer Alexander Leonov said Russia and India can start delivering BrahMos cruise missiles to third countries.



"The delivery to third countries is possible. It was previously restrained as the Indian Army purchased many missiles and, therefore, priority was given to that country as a party to the joint venture. And now we can talk about other countries," said Leonov.



India can sell BrahMos because it's now a member of the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR). MTCR, which consists of 35 nations, forbids its members from selling, jointly producing or exporting missiles with a range in excess of 300 km.



India became the newest member of the MTCR last June 28, which means it can now develop but not export missiles with a range exceeding 300 km.



One of the biggest drawbacks to BrahMos is its paltry range of just 290 kilometers. That drawback was imposed because Russia, the co-builder of the missile, was a member of MTCR at the time BrahMos was being developed in the 1990s and India wasn't.



Following India's accession to the MTCR, India and Russia agreed to work together to more than double the range of India's BrahMos supersonic cruise missile to over 600 kilometers.



The far longer range will also enable this as yet unnamed model to attack more People's Liberation Army bases in the interior of Tibet that threaten the Line of Actual Control, especially those bases aimed at the imperiled Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh China claims is part of Tibet.



The decision to extend the range of BrahMos was announced by Russian president Vladimir Putin during the recent 17th annual India-Russia bilateral summit in Goa last Oct. 15.



BrahMos' accuracy is astonishing. It can deliver its 200 kg conventional semi-armor-piercing or nuclear warhead to one meter of its target.



Its speed is equally stunning. The missile can hurtle towards its target at Mach 3 (3,700 km/h). The newest version under development will double this speed to Mach 7 (8,600 km/h).


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An Iraqi refugee released from detention at JFK Airport has spoken of his love of America and his belief it was the land of freedom.

Hameed Khalid Darweesh, who worked on behalf of the US government in Iraq for 10 years, was one of 12 refugees being held at the airport after the enforcement of Donald Trumps immigration ban.

On Saturday morning, lawyers for Mr Darweesh filed a habeas corpus lawsuit, seeing his release. At around lunchtime, Mr Darweesh, who was travelling with his wife and three children, was set free.

America is the greatest nation, the greatest people in the world, said Mr Darweesh, who said that he liked Mr Trump.

Mr Darweesh, who was given permission to enter the US because he had been threatened over his work with the US military as an interpreter, said he was heartened by those people who had come to his support. Their actions, he said, reaffirmed to him his belief in American values.

In Iraq, we know that America is the land of the free, he said.

Another detainee, Haider Sameer Abdulkhaleq Alshawi, had flown to the US to join his wife, who had worked for a US contractor. After they were detained, lawyers for all of the men filed a suit in the early hours of Saturday morning, seeking their release.

 May refuses to condemn Muslim ban

Mr Trumps order, signed on Friday, means that Syrian refugees are banned from entry until further notice. Nationals of six further countries, including Iran and Iraq, will be banned from entering the US for 90 days.

Meanwhile, the entire US refugee admissions programme is suspended for 120 days, and a lower cap on numbers introduced. Green Card holders from the seven countries are also affected.

Unfortunately, Donald Trump is basing his policies on bigotry and fear, rather than data, Ibrahim Hooper, a spokesman for the Council on American-Islamic Relations, told The Independent. There is no evidence that refugees pose a threat to the US.

According to the habeas corpus petition filed in New York, Mr Darweesh worked as an interpreter for the Armys 101st Airborne Division in Baghdad and Mosul starting shortly after the invasion of Iraq in 2003.

It said that Mr Darweesh, 53, who arrived with his wife and three children on Friday evening, was directly targeted twice for his association with the US Armed Forces.

After he was released, Mr Darweesh thanked those who had worked to free him.

This is the humanity. This is the soul of America. This is what pushed me to leave my country to move here, he said. Im very, very thankful to the people who came to support me.

Asked for his view on Mr Trump, he said he liked him. But he is the president. I worked for the US government. When I came here I showed my documents. They told me to to go to a room. They kept me there until these people came to help.

Lawyer Mark Doss, who works for the International Refugee Assistance Project, had been at the airport most of the night and said they were still trying to free the other people who were being detained.

There is no clear guidance to Customs and Border Control (CBC). Its the weekend. Things are slow right now, he said.

The lawsuit said that when lawyers for the detained men asked the CBC officers who they could speak to about meeting with Mr Darweesh, they were told: Mr President. Call Mr Trump.
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Google has reportedly recalled some of its foreign staff travelling overseas, after Donald Trumps executive order temporarily barring US entry to people from seven Muslim-majority countries.

The Presidents actions have unnerved many in Silicon Valley, where tech companies rely on foreign talent and have often lobbied for more open immigration policies.

Over 100 Google employees are believed to be affected by the temporary ban on migrants from Syria, Iraq, Iran, Sudan, Somalia, Yemen and Libya.

Google chief executive Sundar Pichai  himself an Indian immigrant  wrote to company employees after the order was signed on Friday.

The memo, obtained by Bloomberg, said: Its painful to see the personal cost of this executive order on our colleagues. Weve always made our view on immigration issues known publicly and will continue to do so.

The employees in question reportedly work full time in the US but were overseas for work or holiday.

However, the status of green card holders and foreign professional workers with a H-1B visa is now unclear and some have already been refused boarding on flights to the US, according to Abed Ayoub, director of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee and media reports.

This concerned Mr Pichai, who mentioned in the memo the example of an employee in New Zealand who had to cut short a trip to return to America.

A Google spokesperson told The Independent: Were concerned about the impact of this order and any proposals that could impose restrictions on Googlers and their families, or that could create barriers to bringing great talent to the US.

Well continue to make our views on these issues known to leaders in Washington and elsewhere.

 When May met Trump - five key points from the leaders' press conference

Lawyers are advising clients from the seven countries not to leave the US, even if all their documentation is in order.

Facebooks Mark Zuckerberg also condemned the Presidents decision, while highlighting his own familys immigrant heritage.

Im concerned about the impact of the recent executive orders signed by President Trump, Mr Zuckerberg wrote on his Facebook page.

The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Show all 9 1 /9 The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the media White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer takes questions during the daily press briefing Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the Trans-Pacific Partnership Union leaders applaud US President Donald Trump for signing an executive order withdrawing the US from the Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations during a meeting in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington DC. Mr Trump issued a presidential memorandum in January announcing that the US would withdraw from the trade deal Getty The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the Mexico wall A US Border Patrol vehicle sits waiting for illegal immigrants at a fence opening near the US-Mexico border near McAllen, Texas. The number of incoming immigrants has surged ahead of the upcoming Presidential inauguration of Donald Trump, who has pledged to build a wall along the US-Mexico border. A signature campaign promise, Mr Trump outlined his intention to build a border wall on the US-Mexico border days after taking office Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and abortion US President Donald Trump signs an executive order as Chief of Staff Reince Priebus looks on in the Oval Office of the White House. Mr Trump reinstated a ban on American financial aide being granted to non-governmental organizations that provide abortion counseling, provide abortion referrals, or advocate for abortion access outside of the United States Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the Dakota Access pipeline Opponents of the Keystone XL and Dakota Access pipelines hold a rally as they protest US President Donald Trump's executive orders advancing their construction, at Columbus Circle in New York. US President Donald Trump signed executive orders reviving the construction of two controversial oil pipelines, but said the projects would be subject to renegotiation Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and 'Obamacare' Nancy Pelosi who is the minority leader of the House of Representatives speaks beside House Democrats at an event to protect the Affordable Care Act in Los Angeles, California. US President Donald Trump's effort to make good on his campaign promise to repeal and replace the healthcare law failed when Republicans failed to get enough votes. Mr Trump has promised to revisit the matter Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Donald Trump and 'sanctuary cities' US President Donald Trump signed an executive order in January threatening to pull funding for so-called "sanctuary cities" if they do not comply with federal immigration law AP The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the travel ban US President Donald Trump has attempted twice to restrict travel into the United States from several predominantly Muslim countries. The first attempt, in February, was met with swift opposition from protesters who flocked to airports around the country. That travel ban was later blocked by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. The second ban was blocked by a federal judge a day before it was scheduled to be implemented in mid-March SANDY HUFFAKER/AFP/Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and climate change US President Donald Trump sought to dismantle several of his predecessor's actions on climate change in March. His order instructed the Environmental Protection Agency to reevaluate the Clean Power Plan, which would cap power plant emissions Shannon Stapleton/Reuters

We need to keep this country safe, but we should do that by focusing on people who actually pose a threat. Expanding the focus of law enforcement beyond people who are real threats would make all Americans less safe by diverting resources, while millions of undocumented folks who dont pose a threat will live in fear of deportation.

We should also keep our doors open to refugees and those who need help. Thats who we are.

In December, some of the worlds best known tech businesses said they wouldnt help President Trump create a Muslim registry, as threatened during his campaign.

Google and Facebook were joined by in Apple, Uber, IBM and others in refusing the possibility  which currently remains hypothetical.
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Donald Trump is proposing to prioritise asylum claims by Christians as part of an executive order aiming to combat terrorism, despite Muslims making up the vast majority of attack victims worldwide.

The new President has banned Syrian refugees from entering the US indefinitely, halted all other asylum admissions for 120 days and suspended travel visas for citizens of countries of particular concern, including Syria, Iraq and other Muslim-majority nations.

Aid agencies swiftly pointed out that many of the men, women and children hoping to be resettled in the US were fleeing the very terrorism Mr Trump claims to be fighting, with Amnesty International saying the irony beggars belief.

Mr Trumps wide-ranging executive order directed the Secretary of Homeland Security to make legal changes prioritising asylum claims over the persecution of religious minorities.

 Donald Trump says General Mattis and him disagree on torture

In an interview with the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN), he announced his support for the prospect of Christians specifically being given priority for asylum.

When asked if they would be given special status, he replied yes, adding: Theyve been horribly treated. Do you know if you were a Christian in Syria it was impossible, at least very tough to get into the United States?

If you were a Muslim you could come in, but if you were a Christian, it was almost impossible and the reason that was so unfair everybody was persecuted in all fairness, but they were chopping off the heads of everybody but more so the Christians.

And I thought it was very, very unfair. So we are going to help them.

Renad Mansour, a fellow from the Middle East and North Africa Programme at Chatham House, said that the number of Christian refugees accepted in the US was already disproportionate and available statistics contradicted Mr Trumps claim.

The Christians have been persecuted, yes, and they were forced to flee Isis territory, he told The Independent. But for example the Yazidis werent even given the option to flee  the women were taken as sex slaves and the men were massacred.

Dr Mansour cautioned that Mr Trumps inflammatory rhetoric and executive order were feeding into the narrative used by Isis and other jihadi groups to attract support.

In pictures: Baghdad hit by 24 hours of Isis bombings Show all 11 1 /11 In pictures: Baghdad hit by 24 hours of Isis bombings In pictures: Baghdad hit by 24 hours of Isis bombings Baghdad bombings People gather at the scene of a car bomb attack in Baghdad's mainly Shia district of Sadr City, Iraq, May 11, 2016. Reuters In pictures: Baghdad hit by 24 hours of Isis bombings Baghdad bombings People gather at the scene of a car bomb attack in Baghdad's mainly Shia district of Sadr City, Iraq, May 11, 2016. Reuters In pictures: Baghdad hit by 24 hours of Isis bombings Baghdad bombings People gather at the scene of a car bomb attack in Baghdad's mainly Shia district of Sadr City, Iraq, May 11, 2016. Reuters In pictures: Baghdad hit by 24 hours of Isis bombings Baghdad bombings People gather at the scene of a car bomb attack in Baghdad's mainly Shia district of Sadr City, Iraq, May 11, 2016. Reuters In pictures: Baghdad hit by 24 hours of Isis bombings Baghdad bombings Security forces and citizens inspect the scene after a car bomb explosion at a crowded outdoor market in the Iraqi capital's eastern district of Sadr City, Iraq, Wednesday, May 11, 2016. AP In pictures: Baghdad hit by 24 hours of Isis bombings Baghdad bombings People gather at the scene of a car bomb attack in Baghdad's mainly Shia district of Sadr City, Iraq, May 11, 2016. Reuters In pictures: Baghdad hit by 24 hours of Isis bombings Baghdad bombings A woman reacts at the scene of a car bomb attack in Baghdad's mainly Shi'ite district of Sadr City, Iraq, May 11, 2016 Reuters In pictures: Baghdad hit by 24 hours of Isis bombings Baghdad bombings A bulldozer clears the wreckage following a car bomb attack in Sadr City, a Shia area of Baghdad, on May 11, 2016. AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Baghdad hit by 24 hours of Isis bombings Baghdad bombings Iraqis walk past flowers and shoes left on the ground at Oraiba market a day after it was targeted in a car bomb attack on May 12, 2016. AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Baghdad hit by 24 hours of Isis bombings Baghdad bombings Iraqis mourn in the holy city of Najaf during the funeral of victims of a car bombing in Baghdad's Shiia area of Sadr City during on May 11, 2016. AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Baghdad hit by 24 hours of Isis bombings Baghdad bombings Mourners carry the coffins of bomb victims during a funeral procession at the holy shrine of Imam Ali in Najaf, Iraq, on May 11, 2016. AP

It plays into this clash of civilisations idea, which is something that global jihadis need as fuel, to claim Americans are against them, that the West is against them, he added.

Trump is seen to be validating what they already claimed was happening.

Mr Trumps claim that Isis has targeted Christians over other groups with its beheadings also appears to be untrue.

The group has released gory propaganda footage showing mass decapitations of Ethiopian Christians and Coptic Christians in Libya in 2015 but several other massacres on a similar scale have targeted Syrian soldiers and rebels, Kurdish fighters and Iraqi soldiers, all believed to be Muslims.

In the territory it controls across Iraq and Syria, Isis brutal interpretation of Sharia law also allows for the beheading of local residents on allegations of spying and sorcery, among others.

Isis claims to be fighting a holy war against other Muslim sects, Yazidis, Christians and the kuffar, or disbelievers.

Like other Sunni jihadist groups, Isis considers Shia Muslims to be heretical and has made its followers the main target of its attacks in Iraq.

Shias comprise the countrys majority, as they do in Iran, Bahrain and other nations, while Sunnis are dominant in Saudi Arabia and more than 40 countries stretching from Morocco to Indonesia.

Iraqi soldiers salute as they stand next to a mass grave containing the bodies of hundreds of Shia soldiers from Camp Speicher who were killed by Isis militants in Tikrit (Reuters)

Mr Trump pledged to implement a complete shutdown of Muslims entering the United States during his campaign and it is unclear whether Shia Muslims would be included as one of the prioritised religious minorities for refugee resettlement.

While al-Qaeda leaders considered attacks on Shia civilians too extreme and detrimental to public support  as well as a distraction from its jihad against the West  Isis has made the massacres a priority, targeting symbolic shrines, holy cities and pilgrimages as well as packed markets.

Shias were also the main victims of Isis deadliest ever attack in Iraq, when militants were reported to have massacred at least 1,500 air force cadets at Camp Speicher in Tikrit in June 2014.

A handful of survivors recounted jihadists separating Shias and other religious minorities, driving them into the desert and lining them up on the edge of a mass grave before opening fire.

The atrocity was one of countless massacres inflicted upon government forces and civilians in Iraq, where almost 7,000 people were killed and 12,000 injured in more than 2,400 attacks in 2015, according to the US State Department.

The Global Terrorism Index ranks it as the country worst-affected by terror, followed by Afghanistan, Nigeria, Pakistan and Syria  all Muslim-majority countries.

There are no definitive figures on the number of Muslims or other religious denominations killed by Isis but the huge number of victims in Iraq, where 95 per cent of the population is Muslim, suggests that the religion makes up by far the largest proportion of the dead.

A 2011 report by the US governments National Counter-Terrorism Center (NCTC), said: In cases where the religious affiliation of terrorism casualties could be determined, Muslims suffered between 82 and 97 per cent of terrorism-related fatalities over the past five years.
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The Council on American-Islamic Relations is planning on filing a lawsuit to challenge Donald Trumps ban on Muslim refugees.

Mr Trumps executive order, signed on the same day as International Holocaust Remembrance Day, requested that the Department of Homeland Security imposes a 120-day blanket ban on all refugees coming from seven Muslim-Majority countries.

Syrian refugees would be banned "indefinitely", but Christian applicants would be given top priority.

CAIRs lawsuit is aimed to "challenge the constitutionality of the order which very clearly is designed to target Muslims", Lena Masri, CAIRs national litigation director, told The Independent.

Recommended Twitter account lists Jews who died after being refused US entry

Full details of the lawsuit will be revealed on Monday.

Ms Masri said there are more than 20 Muslims behind the lawsuit and they started to prepare the case as soon as the executive order was signed.

"The American Muslim community has been the target of discriminatory policies for many years now," she said. Generally speaking at this time the Muslim community is being attacked by this order. Its important for Americans to stand together and rise together.

There are around 3.3 million American Muslims in the US, just 1 per cent of a national population of more than 320 million.

The US accepted more than 38,000 Muslim immigrants in 2016, the highest number since 2002, according to the Pew Research Centre, but has taken in relatively low number of Syrian refugees - around 12,500 - last year compared to other countries.

Mr Trump said on Friday that the US "didn't want them here", meaning radical terrorists, but his blanket ban is applied to all those attempting to flee violence, civil war and persecution.

CAIR will file its lawsuit in the US District Court of the Western District of Virginia on Monday.

"There is no evidence that refugees, the most thoroughly vetted of all people entering our nation, are a threat to national security," Ms Masri said in a statement released by CAIR.

"This is an order that is based on bigotry, not reality."

Our First Amendment is under attack. We, as attorneys, are foot soldiers of the American Constitution and took an oath to protect all from being targeted by the government because of their faith, said lawyer Shereef Akeel, who is also co-counsel on the lawsuit.

CAIR held an emergency rally this week when it was revealed Mr Trump would sign the executive order.

See you in court, they had promised at a rally in Washington Square in New York.
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US border agents are checking peoples Facebook pages for their political views before allowing them into the country, an immigration lawyer has claimed.

Houston-based lawyer Mana Yegani said several green card holders, who have the right to live and work in the US, were detained by border agents at American airports hours after President Donald Trump signed an executive order banning immigration from seven countries in the Middle East and Africa.

The ban affect travellers with passports from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen and also extends to green card holders who are granted authorisation to live and work in the United States, according to a Department of Homeland Security spokeswoman.

 Protests erupt outside JFK Airport after President Trump's immigration ban

Ms Yegani, who works with the American Immigration Lawyers Association (Alia), said she and her fellow lawyers had worked through the night fielding calls from people with legitimate visa being detained before entering the US or ordered back on flights to the Muslim-majority countries on the list.

In one alleged incident a Sudanese PhD student at Stanford University in California, who has lived in the US for 22 years, was held for five hours in New York and in another a dual Iranian-Canadian citizen was not allowed to board a flight in Ottawa.

The Alia said border agents were checking the social media accounts of those detained and were interrogating them about their political beliefs before allowing them into the US.

She said: "These are people that are coming in legally. They have jobs here and they have vehicles here.

"Just because Trump signed something at 6pm yesterday, things are coming to a crashing halt. It's scary."

The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Show all 9 1 /9 The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the media White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer takes questions during the daily press briefing Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the Trans-Pacific Partnership Union leaders applaud US President Donald Trump for signing an executive order withdrawing the US from the Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations during a meeting in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington DC. Mr Trump issued a presidential memorandum in January announcing that the US would withdraw from the trade deal Getty The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the Mexico wall A US Border Patrol vehicle sits waiting for illegal immigrants at a fence opening near the US-Mexico border near McAllen, Texas. The number of incoming immigrants has surged ahead of the upcoming Presidential inauguration of Donald Trump, who has pledged to build a wall along the US-Mexico border. A signature campaign promise, Mr Trump outlined his intention to build a border wall on the US-Mexico border days after taking office Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and abortion US President Donald Trump signs an executive order as Chief of Staff Reince Priebus looks on in the Oval Office of the White House. Mr Trump reinstated a ban on American financial aide being granted to non-governmental organizations that provide abortion counseling, provide abortion referrals, or advocate for abortion access outside of the United States Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the Dakota Access pipeline Opponents of the Keystone XL and Dakota Access pipelines hold a rally as they protest US President Donald Trump's executive orders advancing their construction, at Columbus Circle in New York. US President Donald Trump signed executive orders reviving the construction of two controversial oil pipelines, but said the projects would be subject to renegotiation Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and 'Obamacare' Nancy Pelosi who is the minority leader of the House of Representatives speaks beside House Democrats at an event to protect the Affordable Care Act in Los Angeles, California. US President Donald Trump's effort to make good on his campaign promise to repeal and replace the healthcare law failed when Republicans failed to get enough votes. Mr Trump has promised to revisit the matter Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Donald Trump and 'sanctuary cities' US President Donald Trump signed an executive order in January threatening to pull funding for so-called "sanctuary cities" if they do not comply with federal immigration law AP The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the travel ban US President Donald Trump has attempted twice to restrict travel into the United States from several predominantly Muslim countries. The first attempt, in February, was met with swift opposition from protesters who flocked to airports around the country. That travel ban was later blocked by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. The second ban was blocked by a federal judge a day before it was scheduled to be implemented in mid-March SANDY HUFFAKER/AFP/Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and climate change US President Donald Trump sought to dismantle several of his predecessor's actions on climate change in March. His order instructed the Environmental Protection Agency to reevaluate the Clean Power Plan, which would cap power plant emissions Shannon Stapleton/Reuters

A spokesman for the Alia told The Independent that they had heard were anecdotal reports of peoples social media accounts being targeted  this tactic had been used by border agents for several years despite doubts over whether it is constitutional.

It comes as several immigration organisations and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLA) launched a lawsuit in New York on behalf of two Iraqi men, one a former US government worker and the other the husband of a former US security contractor.

It said they had been given visas to enter the US but were detained at JFK airport hours after Mr Trump issued the executive order.

Meanwhile in Cairo, five Iraqis and one Yemeni passenger were barred from boarding a connecting EgyptAir flight to New York and were redirected to flights back to their home countries, despite holding valid visas.

Dutch airline KLM said it had similarly refused carriage to seven passengers from Muslim countries because there was no point taking them to the US.

 May refuses to condemn Muslim ban

The order, signed on Holocaust Memorial Day, means Syrian refugees have been banned from entering the country indefinitely  though the White House has said it will consider admitting Syrian Christians  and the entire US refugee programme has been suspended for 120 days.

Nationals from the six other countries on the list have been banned from entering the US for 90 days.

The move has been condemned by the UNs refugee agency (UNHCR) and the International Organisation for Migration who said: The needs of refugees and migrants worldwide have never been greater and the US resettlement program is one of the most important in the world,

The longstanding US policy of welcoming refugees has created a win-win situation: it has saved the lives of some of the most vulnerable people in the world who have in turn enriched and strengthened their new societies.

Additional reporting by Reuters
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Donald Trump has signed an executive order to ban refugees and travellers from seven Muslim-majority countries entering the US, sparking international condemnation from leading human rights groups.

Titled Protecting the Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry Into the United States, read the full text of the executive order here:

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and laws of the United States of America, including the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), 8 U.S.C. 1101 et seq., and section 301 of title 3, United States Code, and to protect the American people from terrorist attacks by foreign nationals admitted to the United States, it is hereby ordered as follows:

Section 1. Purpose. The visa-issuance process plays a crucial role in detecting individuals with terrorist ties and stopping them from entering the United States. Perhaps in no instance was that more apparent than the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, when State Department policy prevented consular officers from properly scrutinizing the visa applications of several of the 19 foreign nationals who went on to murder nearly 3,000 Americans. And while the visa-issuance process was reviewed and amended after the September 11 attacks to better detect would-be terrorists from receiving visas, these measures did not stop attacks by foreign nationals who were admitted to the United States.

Numerous foreign-born individuals have been convicted or implicated in terrorism-related crimes since September 11, 2001, including foreign nationals who entered the United States after receiving visitor, student, or employment visas, or who entered through the United States refugee resettlement program. Deteriorating conditions in certain countries due to war, strife, disaster, and civil unrest increase the likelihood that terrorists will use any means possible to enter the United States. The United States must be vigilant during the visa-issuance process to ensure that those approved for admission do not intend to harm Americans and that they have no ties to terrorism.

In order to protect Americans, the United States must ensure that those admitted to this country do not bear hostile attitudes toward it and its founding principles. The United States cannot, and should not, admit those who do not support the Constitution, or those who would place violent ideologies over American law. In addition, the United States should not admit those who engage in acts of bigotry or hatred (including honor killings, other forms of violence against women, or the persecution of those who practice religions different from their own) or those who would oppress Americans of any race, gender, or sexual orientation.

Sec. 2. Policy. It is the policy of the United States to protect its citizens from foreign nationals who intend to commit terrorist attacks in the United States; and to prevent the admission of foreign nationals who intend to exploit United States immigration laws for malevolent purposes.

Sec. 3. Suspension of Issuance of Visas and Other Immigration Benefits to Nationals of Countries of Particular Concern. (a) The Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of State and the Director of National Intelligence, shall immediately conduct a review to determine the information needed from any country to adjudicate any visa, admission, or other benefit under the INA (adjudications) in order to determine that the individual seeking the benefit is who the individual claims to be and is not a security or public-safety threat.

(b) The Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of State and the Director of National Intelligence, shall submit to the President a report on the results of the review described in subsection (a) of this section, including the Secretary of Homeland Securitys determination of the information needed for adjudications and a list of countries that do not provide adequate information, within 30 days of the date of this order. The Secretary of Homeland Security shall provide a copy of the report to the Secretary of State and the Director of National Intelligence.

(c) To temporarily reduce investigative burdens on relevant agencies during the review period described in subsection (a) of this section, to ensure the proper review and maximum utilization of available resources for the screening of foreign nationals, and to ensure that adequate standards are established to prevent infiltration by foreign terrorists or criminals, pursuant to section 212(f) of the INA, 8 U.S.C. 1182(f), I hereby proclaim that the immigrant and nonimmigrant entry into the United States of aliens from countries referred to in section 217(a)(12) of the INA, 8 U.S.C. 1187(a)(12), would be detrimental to the interests of the United States, and I hereby suspend entry into the United States, as immigrants and nonimmigrants, of such persons for 90 days from the date of this order (excluding those foreign nationals traveling on diplomatic visas, North Atlantic Treaty Organization visas, C-2 visas for travel to the United Nations, and G-1, G-2, G-3, and G-4 visas).

(d) Immediately upon receipt of the report described in subsection (b) of this section regarding the information needed for adjudications, the Secretary of State shall request all foreign governments that do not supply such information to start providing such information regarding their nationals within 60 days of notification.

(e) After the 60-day period described in subsection (d) of this section expires, the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of State, shall submit to the President a list of countries recommended for inclusion on a Presidential proclamation that would prohibit the entry of foreign nationals (excluding those foreign nationals traveling on diplomatic visas, North Atlantic Treaty Organization visas, C-2 visas for travel to the United Nations, and G-1, G-2, G-3, and G-4 visas) from countries that do not provide the information requested pursuant to subsection (d) of this section until compliance occurs.

(f) At any point after submitting the list described in subsection (e) of this section, the Secretary of State or the Secretary of Homeland Security may submit to the President the names of any additional countries recommended for similar treatment.

The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Show all 9 1 /9 The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the media White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer takes questions during the daily press briefing Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the Trans-Pacific Partnership Union leaders applaud US President Donald Trump for signing an executive order withdrawing the US from the Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations during a meeting in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington DC. Mr Trump issued a presidential memorandum in January announcing that the US would withdraw from the trade deal Getty The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the Mexico wall A US Border Patrol vehicle sits waiting for illegal immigrants at a fence opening near the US-Mexico border near McAllen, Texas. The number of incoming immigrants has surged ahead of the upcoming Presidential inauguration of Donald Trump, who has pledged to build a wall along the US-Mexico border. A signature campaign promise, Mr Trump outlined his intention to build a border wall on the US-Mexico border days after taking office Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and abortion US President Donald Trump signs an executive order as Chief of Staff Reince Priebus looks on in the Oval Office of the White House. Mr Trump reinstated a ban on American financial aide being granted to non-governmental organizations that provide abortion counseling, provide abortion referrals, or advocate for abortion access outside of the United States Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the Dakota Access pipeline Opponents of the Keystone XL and Dakota Access pipelines hold a rally as they protest US President Donald Trump's executive orders advancing their construction, at Columbus Circle in New York. US President Donald Trump signed executive orders reviving the construction of two controversial oil pipelines, but said the projects would be subject to renegotiation Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and 'Obamacare' Nancy Pelosi who is the minority leader of the House of Representatives speaks beside House Democrats at an event to protect the Affordable Care Act in Los Angeles, California. US President Donald Trump's effort to make good on his campaign promise to repeal and replace the healthcare law failed when Republicans failed to get enough votes. Mr Trump has promised to revisit the matter Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Donald Trump and 'sanctuary cities' US President Donald Trump signed an executive order in January threatening to pull funding for so-called "sanctuary cities" if they do not comply with federal immigration law AP The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the travel ban US President Donald Trump has attempted twice to restrict travel into the United States from several predominantly Muslim countries. The first attempt, in February, was met with swift opposition from protesters who flocked to airports around the country. That travel ban was later blocked by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. The second ban was blocked by a federal judge a day before it was scheduled to be implemented in mid-March SANDY HUFFAKER/AFP/Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and climate change US President Donald Trump sought to dismantle several of his predecessor's actions on climate change in March. His order instructed the Environmental Protection Agency to reevaluate the Clean Power Plan, which would cap power plant emissions Shannon Stapleton/Reuters

(g) Notwithstanding a suspension pursuant to subsection (c) of this section or pursuant to a Presidential proclamation described in subsection (e) of this section, the Secretaries of State and Homeland Security may, on a case-by-case basis, and when in the national interest, issue visas or other immigration benefits to nationals of countries for which visas and benefits are otherwise blocked.

(h) The Secretaries of State and Homeland Security shall submit to the President a joint report on the progress in implementing this order within 30 days of the date of this order, a second report within 60 days of the date of this order, a third report within 90 days of the date of this order, and a fourth report within 120 days of the date of this order.

Sec. 4. Implementing Uniform Screening Standards for All Immigration Programs. (a) The Secretary of State, the Secretary of Homeland Security, the Director of National Intelligence, and the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation shall implement a program, as part of the adjudication process for immigration benefits, to identify individuals seeking to enter the United States on a fraudulent basis with the intent to cause harm, or who are at risk of causing harm subsequent to their admission. This program will include the development of a uniform screening standard and procedure, such as in-person interviews; a database of identity documents proffered by applicants to ensure that duplicate documents are not used by multiple applicants; amended application forms that include questions aimed at identifying fraudulent answers and malicious intent; a mechanism to ensure that the applicant is who the applicant claims to be; a process to evaluate the applicants likelihood of becoming a positively contributing member of society and the applicants ability to make contributions to the national interest; and a mechanism to assess whether or not the applicant has the intent to commit criminal or terrorist acts after entering the United States.

(b) The Secretary of Homeland Security, in conjunction with the Secretary of State, the Director of National Intelligence, and the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, shall submit to the President an initial report on the progress of this directive within 60 days of the date of this order, a second report within 100 days of the date of this order, and a third report within 200 days of the date of this order.

Sec. 5. Realignment of the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program for Fiscal Year 2017. (a) The Secretary of State shall suspend the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) for 120 days. During the 120-day period, the Secretary of State, in conjunction with the Secretary of Homeland Security and in consultation with the Director of National Intelligence, shall review the USRAP application and adjudication process to determine what additional procedures should be taken to ensure that those approved for refugee admission do not pose a threat to the security and welfare of the United States, and shall implement such additional procedures. Refugee applicants who are already in the USRAP process may be admitted upon the initiation and completion of these revised procedures. Upon the date that is 120 days after the date of this order, the Secretary of State shall resume USRAP admissions only for nationals of countries for which the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and the Director of National Intelligence have jointly determined that such additional procedures are adequate to ensure the security and welfare of the United States.

(b) Upon the resumption of USRAP admissions, the Secretary of State, in consultation with the Secretary of Homeland Security, is further directed to make changes, to the extent permitted by law, to prioritize refugee claims made by individuals on the basis of religious-based persecution, provided that the religion of the individual is a minority religion in the individuals country of nationality. Where necessary and appropriate, the Secretaries of State and Homeland Security shall recommend legislation to the President that would assist with such prioritization.

 When May met Trump - five key points from the leaders' press conference

(c) Pursuant to section 212(f) of the INA, 8 U.S.C. 1182(f), I hereby proclaim that the entry of nationals of Syria as refugees is detrimental to the interests of the United States and thus suspend any such entry until such time as I have determined that sufficient changes have been made to the USRAP to ensure that admission of Syrian refugees is consistent with the national interest.

(d) Pursuant to section 212(f) of the INA, 8 U.S.C. 1182(f), I hereby proclaim that the entry of more than 50,000 refugees in fiscal year 2017 would be detrimental to the interests of the United States, and thus suspend any such entry until such time as I determine that additional admissions would be in the national interest.

(e) Notwithstanding the temporary suspension imposed pursuant to subsection (a) of this section, the Secretaries of State and Homeland Security may jointly determine to admit individuals to the United States as refugees on a case-by-case basis, in their discretion, but only so long as they determine that the admission of such individuals as refugees is in the national interest  including when the person is a religious minority in his country of nationality facing religious persecution, when admitting the person would enable the United States to conform its conduct to a preexisting international agreement, or when the person is already in transit and denying admission would cause undue hardship  and it would not pose a risk to the security or welfare of the United States.

(f) The Secretary of State shall submit to the President an initial report on the progress of the directive in subsection (b) of this section regarding prioritization of claims made by individuals on the basis of religious-based persecution within 100 days of the date of this order and shall submit a second report within 200 days of the date of this order.

(g) It is the policy of the executive branch that, to the extent permitted by law and as practicable, State and local jurisdictions be granted a role in the process of determining the placement or settlement in their jurisdictions of aliens eligible to be admitted to the United States as refugees. To that end, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall examine existing law to determine the extent to which, consistent with applicable law, State and local jurisdictions may have greater involvement in the process of determining the placement or resettlement of refugees in their jurisdictions, and shall devise a proposal to lawfully promote such involvement.

Sec. 6. Rescission of Exercise of Authority Relating to the Terrorism Grounds of Inadmissibility. The Secretaries of State and Homeland Security shall, in consultation with the Attorney General, consider rescinding the exercises of authority in section 212 of the INA, 8 U.S.C. 1182, relating to the terrorism grounds of inadmissibility, as well as any related implementing memoranda.

Sec. 7. Expedited Completion of the Biometric Entry-Exit Tracking System. (a) The Secretary of Homeland Security shall expedite the completion and implementation of a biometric entry-exit tracking system for all travelers to the United States, as recommended by the National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States.

(b) The Secretary of Homeland Security shall submit to the President periodic reports on the progress of the directive contained in subsection (a) of this section. The initial report shall be submitted within 100 days of the date of this order, a second report shall be submitted within 200 days of the date of this order, and a third report shall be submitted within 365 days of the date of this order. Further, the Secretary shall submit a report every 180 days thereafter until the system is fully deployed and operational.

Sec. 8. Visa Interview Security. (a) The Secretary of State shall immediately suspend the Visa Interview Waiver Program and ensure compliance with section 222 of the INA, 8 U.S.C. 1222, which requires that all individuals seeking a nonimmigrant visa undergo an in-person interview, subject to specific statutory exceptions.

(b) To the extent permitted by law and subject to the availability of appropriations, the Secretary of State shall immediately expand the Consular Fellows Program, including by substantially increasing the number of Fellows, lengthening or making permanent the period of service, and making language training at the Foreign Service Institute available to Fellows for assignment to posts outside of their area of core linguistic ability, to ensure that non-immigrant visa-interview wait times are not unduly affected.

Sec. 9. Visa Validity Reciprocity. The Secretary of State shall review all nonimmigrant visa reciprocity agreements to ensure that they are, with respect to each visa classification, truly reciprocal insofar as practicable with respect to validity period and fees, as required by sections 221(c) and 281 of the INA, 8 U.S.C. 1201(c) and 1351, and other treatment. If a country does not treat United States nationals seeking nonimmigrant visas in a reciprocal manner, the Secretary of State shall adjust the visa validity period, fee schedule, or other treatment to match the treatment of United States nationals by the foreign country, to the extent practicable.

Sec. 10. Transparency and Data Collection. (a) To be more transparent with the American people, and to more effectively implement policies and practices that serve the national interest, the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Attorney General, shall, consistent with applicable law and national security, collect and make publicly available within 180 days, and every 180 days thereafter:

(i) information regarding the number of foreign nationals in the United States who have been charged with terrorism-related offenses while in the United States; convicted of terrorism-related offenses while in the United States; or removed from the United States based on terrorism-related activity, affiliation, or material support to a terrorism-related organization, or any other national security reasons since the date of this order or the last reporting period, whichever is later;

Trump Inauguration protests around the World Show all 14 1 /14 Trump Inauguration protests around the World Trump Inauguration protests around the World Activists from Greenpeace display a message reading "Mr President, walls divide. Build Bridges!" along the Berlin wall in Berlin on January 20, 2017 to coincide with the inauguration of Donald Trump as the 45th president of the United State Getty Trump Inauguration protests around the World An activist holds up a sign at the "We Stand United" rally on the eve of US President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration outside Trump International Hotel and Tower in New York on January 19, 2017 in New York Getty Trump Inauguration protests around the World Protesters burn a U.S. flag and a mock flag with pictures of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump outside the U.S. embassy in metro Manila, Philippines Getty Trump Inauguration protests around the World Filipino protestors hold placcards during a protest rally in front of the US embassy in Manila, Philippines, 20 January 2017. On the eve of President-elect Donald Trump's inaguration as the 45th president of the United States, Filipinos and Fil-Americans held a protest in front of the US embassy in Manila to denounce the incoming US president. Getty Trump Inauguration protests around the World Hong Kong police officers and security guards look on as an anarchist protester belonging to the Disrupt J20 movement sits after using a heavy duty D-lock and motorcycle lock to chain himself to a railing at the entrance gate to the Consulate General of the United States of America in Hong Kong to protest the inauguration of United States President-elect Donald Trump, Hong Kong, China, 20 January 2017. Two activists were arrested and taken away by Hong Kong police during the demonstration. Getty Trump Inauguration protests around the World A banner is unfurled on London's Tower Bridge, organised by Bridges Not Walls - a partnership between grassroots activists and campaigners working on a range of issues, formed in the wake of Donald Trump's election, which aims to build bridges to a world free from hatred and oppression. Getty Trump Inauguration protests around the World Protesters chain themselves to an entry point prior at the inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump in Washington, DC, U.S. Getty Trump Inauguration protests around the World Bridges Not Walls banner dropped from Molenbeek bridge in Brussels, Belgium, 20 January 2017, in an Greenpeace action part of protests Wolrd protest in solidarity with people in the US, the day Donald Trump sworn in as the 45th President of the United States. Getty Trump Inauguration protests around the World A woman holds an anti-U.S. President-elect Donald Trump placard during a rally in Tokyo, Japan, Getty Trump Inauguration protests around the World A Palestinian protester holds a placard during a demonstration against the construction of Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank and against US President-elect Donald Trump, on January 20, 2017, near the settlement of Maale Adumim, east of Jerusalem Getty Trump Inauguration protests around the World Banners on North Bridge in Edinburgh as part of the Bridges Not Walls protest against US President Donald Trump on the day of his inauguration Getty Trump Inauguration protests around the World Russian artist Vasily Slonov (L) and his assistant carry a life-sized cutout, which is an artwork created by Slonov and titled "Siberian Inauguration", before its presentation on the occasion of the inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, in a street in Krasnoyarsk, Russia Getty Trump Inauguration protests around the World A woman holds a banner during a march to thank outgoing President Barack Obama and reject US President-elect Donald Trump before his inauguration at a park in Tokyo, Japan, 20 January 2017. EPA Trump Inauguration protests around the World Palestinian demonstrators protesting this week against a promise by Donald Trump to re-locate the US embassy to Jerusalem Reuters

(ii) information regarding the number of foreign nationals in the United States who have been radicalized after entry into the United States and engaged in terrorism-related acts, or who have provided material support to terrorism-related organizations in countries that pose a threat to the United States, since the date of this order or the last reporting period, whichever is later; and

(iii) information regarding the number and types of acts of gender-based violence against women, including honor killings, in the United States by foreign nationals, since the date of this order or the last reporting period, whichever is later; and

(iv) any other information relevant to public safety and security as determined by the Secretary of Homeland Security and the Attorney General, including information on the immigration status of foreign nationals charged with major offenses.

(b) The Secretary of State shall, within one year of the date of this order, provide a report on the estimated long-term costs of the USRAP at the Federal, State, and local levels.

Sec. 11. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

(i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or

(ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.

(b) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

(c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
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The United Nations has condemned Donald Trumps ban on refugees and order to stop Syrians and travellers from six other Muslim-majority countries entering the US amid mounting international anger.

The UN refugee agency (UNHCR) and International Organisation for Migration called on the new Presidents administration to continue offering asylum to people fleeing war and persecution, a right protected by international law.

The needs of refugees and migrants worldwide have never been greater and the US resettlement program is one of the most important in the world, the two agencies said in a joint statement.

 Donald Trump says General Mattis and him disagree on torture

The longstanding US policy of welcoming refugees has created a win-win situation: it has saved the lives of some of the most vulnerable people in the world who have in turn enriched and strengthened their new societies.

The UN also cautioned Mr Trump against any move to give preferential status to particular nationalities or religions after his executive order called for minority religious groups to be fast-tracked.

He announced his support for the prospect of Syrian Christians being given priority for asylum in an interview with the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN).

When asked if Christians would be given special status, he replied yes, adding: Theyve been horribly treated everybody was persecuted in all fairness, but they were chopping off the heads of everybody but more so the Christians.

And I thought it was very, very unfair. So we are going to help them.

The UNHCR and IOM urged the new administration to continue its work with the UN and other agencies to ensure vital resettlement programmes for people fleeing conflict and persecution, whatever their background.

We strongly believe that refugees should receive equal treatment for protection and assistance, and opportunities for resettlement, regardless of their religion, nationality or race, a spokesperson said.

We will continue to engage actively and constructively with the US Government, as we have done for decades, to protect those who need it most.

Refugee crisis - in pictures Show all 27 1 /27 Refugee crisis - in pictures Refugee crisis - in pictures A child looks through the fence at the Moria detention camp for migrants and refugees at the island of Lesbos on May 24, 2016. AFP/Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures Ahmad Zarour, 32, from Syria, reacts after his rescue by MOAS (Migrant Offshore Aid Station) while attempting to reach the Greek island of Agathonisi, Dodecanese, southeastern Agean Sea Refugee crisis - in pictures Syrian migrants holding life vests gather onto a pebble beach in the Yesil liman district of Canakkale, northwestern Turkey, after being stopped by Turkish police in their attempt to reach the Greek island of Lesbos on 29 January 2016. Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures Refugees flash the 'V for victory' sign during a demonstration as they block the Greek-Macedonian border Refugee crisis - in pictures Migrants have been braving sub zero temperatures as they cross the border from Macedonia into Serbia. Refugee crisis - in pictures A sinking boat is seen behind a Turkish gendarme off the coast of Canakkale's Bademli district on January 30, 2016. At least 33 migrants drowned on January 30 when their boat sank in the Aegean Sea while trying to cross from Turkey to Greece. Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures A general view of a shelter for migrants inside a hangar of the former Tempelhof airport in Berlin, Germany Refugee crisis - in pictures Refugees protest behind a fence against restrictions limiting passage at the Greek-Macedonian border, near Gevgelija. Since last week, Macedonia has restricted passage to northern Europe to only Syrians, Iraqis and Afghans who are considered war refugees. All other nationalities are deemed economic migrants and told to turn back. Macedonia has finished building a fence on its frontier with Greece becoming the latest country in Europe to build a border barrier aimed at checking the flow of refugees Refugee crisis - in pictures A father and his child wait after being caught by Turkish gendarme on 27 January 2016 at Canakkale's Kucukkuyu district Refugee crisis - in pictures Migrants make hand signals as they arrive into the southern Spanish port of Malaga on 27 January, 2016 after an inflatable boat carrying 55 Africans, seven of them women and six chidren, was rescued by the Spanish coast guard off the Spanish coast. Refugee crisis - in pictures A refugee holds two children as dozens arrive on an overcrowded boat on the Greek island of Lesbos Refugee crisis - in pictures A child, covered by emergency blankets, reacts as she arrives, with other refugees and migrants, on the Greek island of Lesbos, At least five migrants including three children, died after four boats sank between Turkey and Greece, as rescue workers searched the sea for dozens more, the Greek coastguard said Refugee crisis - in pictures Migrants wait under outside the Moria registration camp on the Lesbos. Over 400,000 people have landed on Greek islands from neighbouring Turkey since the beginning of the year Refugee crisis - in pictures The bodies of Christian refugees are buried separately from Muslim refugees at the Agios Panteleimonas cemetery in Mytilene, Lesbos Refugee crisis - in pictures Macedonian police officers control a crowd of refugees as they prepare to enter a camp after crossing the Greek border into Macedonia near Gevgelija Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures A refugee tries to force the entry to a camp as Macedonian police officers control a crowd after crossing the Greek border into Macedonia near Gevgelija Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures Refugees are seen aboard a Turkish fishing boat as they arrive on the Greek island of Lesbos after crossing a part of the Aegean Sea from the Turkish coast to Lesbos Reuters Refugee crisis - in pictures An elderly woman sings a lullaby to baby on a beach after arriving with other refugees on the Greek island of Lesbos after crossing the Aegean sea from Turkey Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures A man collapses as refugees make land from an overloaded rubber dinghy after crossing the Aegean see from Turkey, at the island of Lesbos EPA Refugee crisis - in pictures A girl reacts as refugees arrive by boat on the Greek island of Lesbos after crossing the Aegean sea from Turkey Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures Refugees make a show of hands as they queue after crossing the Greek border into Macedonia near Gevgelija Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures People help a wheelchair user board a train with others, heading towards Serbia, at the transit camp for refugees near the southern Macedonian town of Gevgelija AP Refugee crisis - in pictures Refugees board a train, after crossing the Greek-Macedonian border, near Gevgelija. Macedonia is a key transit country in the Balkans migration route into the EU, with thousands of asylum seekers - many of them from Syria, Afghanistan, Iraq and Somalia - entering the country every day Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures An aerial picture shows the "New Jungle" refugee camp where some 3,500 people live while they attempt to enter Britain, near the port of Calais, northern France Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures A Syrian girl reacts as she helped by a volunteer upon her arrival from Turkey on the Greek island of Lesbos, after having crossed the Aegean Sea EPA Refugee crisis - in pictures Refugees arrive by boat on the Greek island of Lesbos after crossing the Aegean sea from Turkey Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures Beds ready for use for migrants and refugees are prepared at a processing center on January 27, 2016 in Passau, Germany. The flow of migrants arriving in Passau has dropped to between 500 and 1,000 per day, down significantly from last November, when in the same region up to 6,000 migrants were arriving daily.

Mr Trump has suspended all refugee admissions for 120 days as part of measures he claimed would keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the US.

His wide-ranging executive order additionally banned Syrian refugees indefinitely until significant changes are made, and halved the annual cap on refugees to 50,000.

The President's action also suspends travel visas for anyone from seven predominantly Muslim "countries of particular concern", including Syria and Iraq, from entering the US for at least 90 days.

He claimed his administration needed time to develop more stringent screening processes for refugees, immigrants and visitors.

It provoked outcry from NGOs working to stem the worst ever global refugee crisis, with more than 65 million people forced to flee their homes.

Amnesty International warned the move could have catastrophic consequences, saying some of the worst fears about a Trump presidency were already being realised.

Salil Shetty, the groups secretary general, said: These men, women and children are the victims of the same terror President Trump claims he wants to fight against. The irony beggars belief.

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) said Mr Trumps harmful and hasty decision would impact thousands of innocent people, mostly women and children, awaiting resettlement to the US.

New Yorkers demonstrate against Mr Trumps proposed immigration policies in December 2015 (Spencer Platt/Getty)

In truth, refugees are fleeing terror  they are not terrorists, said IRC president and CEO David Miliband.

Help Refugees, a British charity working across camps in northern France, Greece and the Middle East, said news of Mr Trumps order was devastating.

Refugees are, by definition, people seeking sanctuary from some of the most horrific circumstances and it is the duty of compassionate and progressive nations to accept their fair share, a spokesperson said.

Banning refugees on the basis of their religious beliefs is abhorrent.

It came months after global outcry over the Republicans campaign pledge to implement a total and complete shutdown of Muslims entering the United States.

Around 25,000 refugees were resettled in the US between October and the end of 2016 under the UNHCRs programme for the most vulnerable, the agency said.

According to the Pew Research Centre, the numbers of Muslim and Christian refugees from all countries entering the US were around the same last year: 37,521 Christian refugees entered the US during 2016, with 38,901 Muslim refugees entering in the same period.

Before being approved for resettlement by American authorities, refugees undergo an in-depth process that includes up to 36 months of vetting  including biometric screening  by 12 to 15 government agencies including the Department of Homeland Security and intelligence services.
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Thousands of academics, including 13 Nobel Laureates, signed a petition protesting President Donald Trumps executive order that would require extreme vetting of refugees from majority Muslim countries.

The president signed the executive order on Friday, which claims that the entry of nationals of Syria as refugees is detrimental to the interests of the United States and thus suspend any such entry until it is decided the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program has made changes consistent with the national interest.

The executive order also suspends the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program for 120 days and imposes a 30-day ban on entry from Syria, Iraq, Somalia, Yemen, Iran, Libya and Sudan.

 Donald Trump says General Mattis and him disagree on torture

The EO unfairly targets a large group of immigrants and non-immigrants on the basis of their countries of origin, all of which are nations with a majority Muslim population, the petition reads.

This is a major step towards implementing the stringent racial and religious profiling promised on the campaign trail.

The petition also reads that the executive order would impose an undue burden on our community and that those whose status in the U.S. might be reconsidered are our students, friends, colleagues and members of our community.

This measure is fatally disruptive to the lives of these immigrants, their families, and the communities of which they form an integral part. It is inhumane, ineffective, and un-American, the petition said.

The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Show all 9 1 /9 The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the media White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer takes questions during the daily press briefing Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the Trans-Pacific Partnership Union leaders applaud US President Donald Trump for signing an executive order withdrawing the US from the Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations during a meeting in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington DC. Mr Trump issued a presidential memorandum in January announcing that the US would withdraw from the trade deal Getty The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the Mexico wall A US Border Patrol vehicle sits waiting for illegal immigrants at a fence opening near the US-Mexico border near McAllen, Texas. The number of incoming immigrants has surged ahead of the upcoming Presidential inauguration of Donald Trump, who has pledged to build a wall along the US-Mexico border. A signature campaign promise, Mr Trump outlined his intention to build a border wall on the US-Mexico border days after taking office Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and abortion US President Donald Trump signs an executive order as Chief of Staff Reince Priebus looks on in the Oval Office of the White House. Mr Trump reinstated a ban on American financial aide being granted to non-governmental organizations that provide abortion counseling, provide abortion referrals, or advocate for abortion access outside of the United States Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the Dakota Access pipeline Opponents of the Keystone XL and Dakota Access pipelines hold a rally as they protest US President Donald Trump's executive orders advancing their construction, at Columbus Circle in New York. US President Donald Trump signed executive orders reviving the construction of two controversial oil pipelines, but said the projects would be subject to renegotiation Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and 'Obamacare' Nancy Pelosi who is the minority leader of the House of Representatives speaks beside House Democrats at an event to protect the Affordable Care Act in Los Angeles, California. US President Donald Trump's effort to make good on his campaign promise to repeal and replace the healthcare law failed when Republicans failed to get enough votes. Mr Trump has promised to revisit the matter Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Donald Trump and 'sanctuary cities' US President Donald Trump signed an executive order in January threatening to pull funding for so-called "sanctuary cities" if they do not comply with federal immigration law AP The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the travel ban US President Donald Trump has attempted twice to restrict travel into the United States from several predominantly Muslim countries. The first attempt, in February, was met with swift opposition from protesters who flocked to airports around the country. That travel ban was later blocked by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. The second ban was blocked by a federal judge a day before it was scheduled to be implemented in mid-March SANDY HUFFAKER/AFP/Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and climate change US President Donald Trump sought to dismantle several of his predecessor's actions on climate change in March. His order instructed the Environmental Protection Agency to reevaluate the Clean Power Plan, which would cap power plant emissions Shannon Stapleton/Reuters

In addition, one of the concerns in the petition was that the conditions necessary to ending the suspension and ban make it easy to turn the executive order into a permanent ban. Trump campaigned on a temporary ban on Muslims entering the United States.

Among the signees are four John Bates Clark Medal recipients and thirteen Nobel Laureates who have received the award for physics, economics and physiology or medicine.
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Donald Trump has used his first official press conference with a foreign leader to throw the full weight of the US Presidency behind Brexit.

Theresa May stood next to President Trump as he declared that a "free and independent" Britain outside the EU would be a "blessing" for the world.

In words likely to antagonise already strained relations with EU leaders, Mr Trump said the UK and US understood that "governments must represent their own citizens" and now Britain would be able to seal trade deals without "somebody watching you".

The Prime Minister made clear her strong desire to build close a relationship with Mr Trump, as she praised his contentious election win as a "stunning victory" and confirmed that he has accepted an invitation for a state visit during which he will meet the Queen.

 When May met Trump - five key points from the leaders' press conference

But the big show of togetherness was pricked by the simmering controversies surrounding the Trump administration, including questions over the new leader's approach to torture and Mexico.

Ms May tackled another area of contention  the Presidents support for Nato  saying that Mr Trump backed the institution 100 per cent.

The President has previously called Nato obsolete but the Prime Minister said they were in agreement that the organisation is the "bulwark of our collective defence". In return, Ms May said that she would encourage other EU leaders to meet their Nato commitment of spending 2 per cent of national income on defence.

The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Show all 9 1 /9 The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the media White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer takes questions during the daily press briefing Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the Trans-Pacific Partnership Union leaders applaud US President Donald Trump for signing an executive order withdrawing the US from the Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations during a meeting in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington DC. Mr Trump issued a presidential memorandum in January announcing that the US would withdraw from the trade deal Getty The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the Mexico wall A US Border Patrol vehicle sits waiting for illegal immigrants at a fence opening near the US-Mexico border near McAllen, Texas. The number of incoming immigrants has surged ahead of the upcoming Presidential inauguration of Donald Trump, who has pledged to build a wall along the US-Mexico border. A signature campaign promise, Mr Trump outlined his intention to build a border wall on the US-Mexico border days after taking office Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and abortion US President Donald Trump signs an executive order as Chief of Staff Reince Priebus looks on in the Oval Office of the White House. Mr Trump reinstated a ban on American financial aide being granted to non-governmental organizations that provide abortion counseling, provide abortion referrals, or advocate for abortion access outside of the United States Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the Dakota Access pipeline Opponents of the Keystone XL and Dakota Access pipelines hold a rally as they protest US President Donald Trump's executive orders advancing their construction, at Columbus Circle in New York. US President Donald Trump signed executive orders reviving the construction of two controversial oil pipelines, but said the projects would be subject to renegotiation Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and 'Obamacare' Nancy Pelosi who is the minority leader of the House of Representatives speaks beside House Democrats at an event to protect the Affordable Care Act in Los Angeles, California. US President Donald Trump's effort to make good on his campaign promise to repeal and replace the healthcare law failed when Republicans failed to get enough votes. Mr Trump has promised to revisit the matter Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Donald Trump and 'sanctuary cities' US President Donald Trump signed an executive order in January threatening to pull funding for so-called "sanctuary cities" if they do not comply with federal immigration law AP The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the travel ban US President Donald Trump has attempted twice to restrict travel into the United States from several predominantly Muslim countries. The first attempt, in February, was met with swift opposition from protesters who flocked to airports around the country. That travel ban was later blocked by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. The second ban was blocked by a federal judge a day before it was scheduled to be implemented in mid-March SANDY HUFFAKER/AFP/Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and climate change US President Donald Trump sought to dismantle several of his predecessor's actions on climate change in March. His order instructed the Environmental Protection Agency to reevaluate the Clean Power Plan, which would cap power plant emissions Shannon Stapleton/Reuters

Mr Trump also renewed his support of torture, but said he would defer to his Defence Secretary, James Mattis, who opposes so-called enhanced interrogation techniques.

The press conference was the centre-piece of the Prime Minister's visit, which also saw her woo congressional Republicans at their annual retreat in a bid to strengthen the chances of a future trade deal with the US.

But with the tectonic plates of international politics re-aligning, it was Mr Trump's clear backing for Brexit that gave the clearest indicator of how the President sees a new global order.

Highlighting that he thought the US and UK both valued "prosperity and the rule of law", he said: "That is why the US respects the sovereignty of the British people and their right of self-determination.

"A free and independent Britain is a blessing to the world and our relationship has never been stronger. Both America and Britain understand that governments must be responsible to everyday working people, that governments must represent their own citizens."

Mr Trump has been heavily critical of Germany's Angela Merkel for her decision to allow thousands of immigrants to enter her country and has been accused by EU leaders of fomenting the break up of the union.

Theresa May and Donald Trump were pictured holding hands

During the conference he again talked about the difficulties of doing business in the EU.

He said: "I think Brexit is going to be a wonderful thing for your country. I think when it irons out you're going to have your own identity, and you're going to have the people that you want in your country, and you're going to be able to make free trade deals without having somebody watching you and what you're doing."

The President added: "I think it will go down that it will end up being a fantastic thing for the United Kingdom, in the end it will be a tremendous asset and not a tremendous liability."

Recommended Trump announces UK visit and hails Brexit at joint appearance with May

He also boasted of having correctly predicted Brexit against the odds while visiting Scotland in June, although he in fact did not hold his press conference there until after the result was already known.

In one awkward moment when British journalist Laura Kuenssberg asked about Mr Trump's questionable views on torture, the President joked about whether Ms May should have asked the BBC Political Editor to speak. There goes that relationship, he joked.

But the Prime Minister insisted that she and the President would listen to each other and that she would not be afraid to raise difficult issues.

"There will be times when we disagree and issues on which we disagree. The point of the special relationship is that we are able to have that open and frank discussion so we are able to make that clear when it happens, she said.

 Theresa May congratulates Donald Trump on 'stunning election victory'

"But I am clear also that there are many issues on which the UK and the US stand alongside one another, many issues on which we agree."

At the start of the event Ms May congratulated Mr Trump on what she said was "a stunning election victory", despite him having lost the popular vote.

Amid intense speculation as to how the brash New York property mogul and the vicar's daughter would get along, Mr Trump was spotted taking the Prime Minister by the hand as they walked through the White House grounds.

Mr Trump insisted that despite their very different backgrounds they were both "people persons". "I am not as brash as you might think, he said. I think we are going to get along very well.

Earlier in the day Mr Trump and the Prime Minister had a brief meeting in the Oval Office, where both were desperate to draw attention to a bust of Winston Churchill that had arrived back in the room.

The pair were also pictured walking hand-in-hand along the colonnade at the back of the White House, with the awkward photos then shared widely on social media.

At lunch the pair and their advisors ate a baby iceberg wedge salad with blue cheese, followed by braised beef shortribs with potato puree and glazed winter vegetables and finished with salted caramel creme brulee.

Ms May also held a private reception for key figures in the administration the night before, at which Defence Secretary James Mattis and Wilbur Ross, due to be Trade Secretary, were present.
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Green card and visa holders were being blocked from boarding US-bound flights within hours of Donald Trump issuing an executive order limiting immigration from several Muslim countries, according to reports.

US airports were also said to have ordered some passengers who had managed to board flights to return to their point of origin, according to the Arab-American Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC).

ADCs policy director Abed Ayoub warned visas were being denied with immediate effect and the ban would also apply to green card holders attempting to return to the US overnight.

Mr Trump suspended refugee admissions to the country for 120 days as part of measures he claimed would keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the US.

The executive order, titled Protecting the Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry Into The United States, also banned Syrian refugees indefinitely until significant changes are made, and halved the annual cap on refugees to 50,000.

The order will affect people from countries of particular concern, which is expected to include Syria, Iraq, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen.

The ADC warned against green card holders from the listed countries from travelling outside the US until the ban is lifted.

 Republicans 'openly considering Donald Trump's emotional stability'

The organisation also urged undocumented immigrants to be careful not to reveal their identities on social media.

Customs officials said the number of people who arrived in the US and were turned back was not immediately available.

It takes time to collect all the numbers, a spokesperson told the New York Daily News.

It will be a decision from the highest levels of The Department of Homeland Security to decide if and when the data may be available.

The order provoked international outcry from human rights and humanitarian groups, with the United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR), International Organisation for Migration and Amnesty International all condemning the ban.
Miss Universe 2016 winner: Half-Filipino Tania Dawson is second Miss New Zealand to win the crown?

Tania Dawson, 24, is hitting two birds with one stone while currently in the Philippines. Aside from representing New Zealand in Miss Universe 2016, she is also finding her Filipino roots in Miss Universe 2015 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach's home country.



Born and raised in a rural town called Waiuku, Dawson is a daughter of a Kiwi man and a Filipino woman named Margarita Palabay. The mother was originally from Pangasinan, Philippines.



Advertisement

"Given I'm half-Filipino, a lot of media profiled me and are taking more of an interest," Stuff quoted Dawson as saying. "And they are keen to link me to my mum's village."



If Wurtzbach crowns Dawson as her successor, the latter will become the second Miss New Zealand to be crowned Miss Universe. The first and only one is Miss Universe 1983 Lorraine Downes.



Steve Harvey is returning as the host of the coronation night with "America's Next Top Model" judge Ashley Graham as the backstage host. The former arrived in Manila on Jan. 28, Saturday, ABS-CBN News reported.



The judging panel during the coronation night includes Miss Universe 1993 Dayanara Torres from Puerto Rico, Miss Universe 1994 Sushmita Sen from India and Miss Universe 2011 Leila Lopes from Angola. Joining them are theatrical, TV and film producer Francine LeFrak, Paper Magazine editorial director Mickey Boardman and "The Real Housewives of Atlanta" star Cynthia Bailey.



On Jan. 18, Wurtzbach participated in a dinner program in Baguio City, Philippines, which was hosted by Miss Universe 2011 third runner-up Shamcey Supsup. Distinguished people of the city welcomed them along with some Miss Universe 2016 candidates including Dawson.



It was not Dawson's first time to visit Baguio City. In fact, her parents met in the 1980s in the city, which was also her mother's birthplace.



Have a glimpse of Dawson's visit in Baguio here:






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President Donald Trump spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin amid accusations Russia interfered with the 2016 presidential election, but did not discuss hacking in the US election or the lifting of sanctions against Russia.

According to a readout from the Kremlin about the meeting, Mr Putin congratulated Mr Trump on becoming president.

Mr Trump has previously stressed that he wants to see an improved relationship between the US and Russia.

 Vladimir Putin says Donald Trump didn't use prostitutes because he's met so many beautiful women

I think it would be great if we got along with Russia because we could fight Isis together, as an example, but I don't know Putin, Mr Trump said, during the second Republican presidential debate.

The two also discussed the Iranian nuclear programme. Mr. Trump has previously criticised the nuclear agreement that was negotiated with Iran by the US, China, France, Germany, the United Kingdom and Russia.

A statement released by the Kremlin said Mr Trump and his Russian counterpart had agreed to establish "partner-like cooperation" on issues ranging from Ukraine to Iran.

The phrasing will raise fears that the White House plans to pull back from sanctions on Russia.

But absent from the official account of the conversation was any explicit mention of lifting sanctions imposed on Russia because of the nations 2014 intervention in Ukraine, which Mr Trump had previously said he would be open to considering. They also did not apparently discuss the fate of 35 Russian diplomats recently expelled by Barack Obama for Moscows alleged cyber-meddling in the election.

The intelligence community has said - without providing evidence - that Russia intervened in the US elections last year to assist Mr Trump by hacking emails from the Democratic National Committee and giving them to the website WikiLeaks.

After initially refusing to admit outright that it was Russia, earlier this month Mr Trump said it was Russia that conducted the hacks.

But Mr Trump initially criticised leaks about information by the intelligence community, comparing them to Nazi Germany on Twitter.

During the first general election debate with Hillary Clinton, Mr Trump refused to directly acknowledge that Russia had intervened in the presidential election.

Mr Trump also frequently complimented the Russian president, saying he was a leader far more than our president in reference to then-President Barack Obama at a forum about foreign policy in September.
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A series of fake tweets pretending to be those of President Donald Trump are hitting Chinas social media as the Lunar New Year begins.

According to a report in Al Jazeera, people are using an app called Jike, which allows a person to enter content and then screenshot a resulting tweet, and more than a million fake tweets have been created in both Chinese and English.

Twitter is currently blocked in China, which could possibly make it hard for people to spot the difference between a real and fake tweet and has already fooled some people.

Mr Trump is famous for his outspoken comments about China (Twitter)

Among some of the more humorous tweets is one that says Wish everybody a very happy Chinese New Year! I love China. I love the Chinese people just as I love Melania or Ivanka, alluding to Mr Trumps wife and daughter, respectively.

 The Great Wall Featurette - Shooting In China

Another plays off his campaign slogan saying Make you Chicken year great again! since this Lunar New Year will be for the Year of the Rooster, while another that likely came from a student wrote All the universities should cancel their homework and exams for Chinese students to enjoy the Spring Festival.

Mr Trump has frequently spoken about the need to get tough on China, making proclamations such as China is eating our lunch and has said he would possibly label the nation as a currency manipulator, which has also been supported by some Democrats.

The presidents rhetoric on China has even led to actor Alec Baldwin to mock Trumps pronunciation of its name on the American comedy show Saturday Night Live.
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A teacher who had sex with her pupils said they made her feel good about herself.

Brianne Altice, from Utah, blamed self-esteem issues for the incidents with underage students.

The 37-year-old, who was married at the time of the events, was arrested after one of her 16-year-old victims notified the police.

Two other 17-year-olds then stepped forward and also claimed they had been having sex with the English teacher.

Altice, a mother of two, was jailed for 30 years in 2015 after pleading guilty to forcible sexual abuse and has now made an appeal for parole.

"They said this and that and made me feel good about myself. So I justified everything. There's no justification for it, she said.

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. 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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

"I clearly lost sight of all my values and my principles and was seeking inappropriate means to address my own issues.

"Issues I'm very aware of now.

Altice was clear that she was taking full responsibly for her actions and placed no blame on her ex-husband, her students or the school.
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Two Iraqi refugees who were detained at New Yorks JFK Airport as a result of Donald Trump's immigration ban, had spent the last decade working to help America in Iraq.

As news emerged that the nation was closing its border to immigrants from seven countries following an executive order signed by the new president, the New York Times said two Iraqi refugees were stopped at New York.

One of the men, Hameed Khalid Darweesh, had worked on behalf of the US government in Iraq for 10 years. The other man, Haider Sameer Abdulkhaleq Alshawi, had flown to the US to join his wife, who had worked for a US contractor. After they were detained, lawyers for the men filed a suit in the early hours of Saturday morning, seeking their release.

The order signed on Friday means that Syrian refugees are banned from entry until further notice. Nationals of six further countries, including Iran and Iraq, will be banned from entering the US for 90 days.

Meanwhile, the entire US refugee admissions programme is suspended for 120 days, and a lower cap on numbers introduced.

"Unfortunately, Donald Trump is basing his policies on bigotry and and fear, rather than data, Ibrahim Hooper, a spokesman for the Council on American-Islamic Relations, told The Independent. There is no evidence that refugees pose a threat to the US.

 BBC's Jon Sopel appears to do magic on air during Trump segment

He added: Now, the ones who are suffering the most are being refused help. Its ironic, because this entire country was built on immigrants.

Mark Doss, a lawyer for the two men who works for the International Refugee Assistance Project, told CNN that he had only been able to speak to one of the men once, on the phone. He said he was still at JFK Airport. "They were detained illegally".

He added: "They were both individuals who were targeted because of their association with the US."

According to the habeas corpus petition filed in New York, the two men had worked to help the USs efforts in Iraq for up to ten years. Mr Darweesh worked as an interpreter for the Armys 101st Airborne Division in Baghdad and Mosul starting shortly after the invasion of Iraq in 2003.

It said that Mr Darweesh, 53, who arrived with his wife and three children on Friday evening, was directly targeted twice for his association with the US Armed Forces.

Meanwhile, Mr Alshawi was trying to get to Houston to be reunited with his wife. The Times said that the woman, who asked to be identified by her first initial of D out of concern for her familys safety, wiped tears from her face as she sat on a sofa in her sisters house early on Saturday morning.

The lawsuit said the woman, a 32-year-old who was born in Iraq, met her husband while both were students at a Baghdad college. The couple has one child.

Im really breaking down, because I dont know what to do, she said. Its not fair.

The lawsuit said that when lawyers for the men, asked Customs and Border Protection officers who they could speak to about meeting with Mr Darweesh, they were told: Mr President. Call Mr Trump.
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President Donald Trump has spoken with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and the two are scheduled to meet next month in Washington.

According to a readout from the White House, the president reaffirmed ironclad US commitment to Japans security as well as Defence Secretary James Mattis upcoming visit to the region in a phone call.

In November, Mr Abe became the first foreign head of state to meet with Mr Trump after his election, though the meeting stirred controversy because of the fact Mr Trumps daughter Ivanka sat in on the meeting, along with her husband, Jared Kushner, who is now a senior adviser to Trump.

Japans Prime Minister Shinzo Abe meets with Donald Trump and his daughter, Ivanka, at Trump Tower in Manhattan, New York (Reuters ) (Reuters)

The two leaders also spoke about establishing a bilateral trade agreement.

Earlier this week, Mr Trump announced the US would withdraw from the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP), the 12-nation free trade agreement which included the US and Japan, along with countries such as Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Chile, Brunei and Peru.

Mr Trump frequently criticised the TPP on the campaign trail and hit Hillary Clinton for previously calling it the gold standard, and his opposition to other free trade agreements such as the North American Free Trade Agreement was seen as a reason why he won support in previously Democratic strongholds such as Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Michigan.
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An indigenous tribe in Arizona has said it will not let Donald Trump build a border wall on its land.

The Tohono Oodham Nation, a federally recognised tribe with a reservation that spans 75 miles along the US-Mexico border, said on Thursday that it does not support the proposed wall and will attempt to block construction if it goes ahead.

In a statement it criticised the White House for signing an executive order without consulting the tribe, and hinted at Standing Rock-style mass resistance if necessary. The tribal vice-chairman has previously said the government could build the wall over my dead body.

 Donald Trump's Mexico wall: At what cost, and how long?

The tribe, which has about 28,000 members, said it has suffered for decades from the "militarisation" of the international border, which cuts across its ancestral lands. Members have said they are frequently assaulted or threatened by border guards and impeded in visiting relatives south of the border.

The reserve is meant to operate as an autonomous territory, but in practice people living there say they are afraid to hunt on their own land or even let their children ride the bus to school because of harassment by security agents. They said in the statement that they are routinely stopped from simply travelling through their own traditional lands, practicing migratory traditions essential to their religion, economy and culture.

The Tohono O'odham Nation occupies the second largest Native American base in the country and has so far spoken out the loudest in opposition to the wall, but it is possible other tribes which span the border will also refuse to let Mr Trump build on their territory.

 What is the Dakota Access Pipeline?

The Kumeyaay in California and the Kickapoo in Texas, as well as the Cocopah, also in Arizona, all occupy land spanning the US and Mexico. Representatives of all these tribe have gathered together in the past to discuss tactics to oppose border security, with several indigenous leaders saying the militarisation and occupation of indigenous lands is in direct violation of their right to economic, political, social, and cultural control of their lands.

Tribe member Bradley Moreno, 35, told the Guardian there is already a steel barrier at the border, but if a wall is built, the results would be disastrous.

Its going to affect our sacred lands. Its going to affect our ceremonial sites. Its going to affect the environment. We have wildlife, and they have their own patterns of migration, he said. There are just so many things that are wrong with this. The whole idea behind it is just racist.

It remains unclear how Congress intends to finance construction of the wall. Mr Trump initially claimed that Mexico would be forced to pick up the bill, but recently he suggested instead that he would place an additional tax on all goods imported from Mexico to raise funds outraging Americans who like tequila and avocados.

However the legal challenge Mr Trump could face if he attempted to build a wall on Tohono Oodham land without the tribe's permission could pose an even larger problem than finding the money.

He is going to have a very serious and prolonged battle with the Oodham people, said Raul Grijalva, a Democratic congressman from Arizona, speaking to the Guardian. They know whats at stake is their sovereignty.

Sioux from Standing Rock claim victory over Dakota Pipeline Show all 21 1 /21 Sioux from Standing Rock claim victory over Dakota Pipeline Sioux from Standing Rock claim victory over Dakota Pipeline CANNON BALL, ND - DECEMBER 05: Despite blizzard conditions, military veterans march in support of the "water protectors" at Oceti Sakowin Camp on the edge of the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation on December 5, 2016 outside Cannon Ball, North Dakota. Over the weekend a large group of military veterans joined native Americans and activists from around the country who have been at the camp for several months trying to halt the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline. Yesterday the US Army Corps of Engineers announced that it will not grant an easement for the pipeline to cross under a lake on the Sioux Tribes Standing Rock reservation. The proposed 1,172-mile-long pipeline would transport oil from the North Dakota Bakken region through South Dakota, Iowa and into Illinois. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images) Getty Images Sioux from Standing Rock claim victory over Dakota Pipeline CANNON BALL, ND - DECEMBER 04: Fireworks fill the night sky above Oceti Sakowin Camp as activists celebrate after learning an easement had been denied for the Dakota Access Pipeline near the edge of the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation on December 4, 2016 outside Cannon Ball, North Dakota. The US Army Corps of Engineers announced today that it will not grant an easement to the Dakota Access Pipeline to cross under a lake on the Sioux Tribes Standing Rock reservation, ending a months-long standoff. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images) Getty Images Sioux from Standing Rock claim victory over Dakota Pipeline CANNON BALL, ND - DECEMBER 05: Despite blizzard conditions, military veterans march in support of the "water protectors" at Oceti Sakowin Camp on the edge of the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation on December 5, 2016 outside Cannon Ball, North Dakota. Over the weekend a large group of military veterans joined native Americans and activists from around the country who have been at the camp for several months trying to halt the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline. Yesterday the US Army Corps of Engineers announced that it will not grant an easement for the pipeline to cross under a lake on the Sioux Tribes Standing Rock reservation. The proposed 1,172-mile-long pipeline would transport oil from the North Dakota Bakken region through South Dakota, Iowa and into Illinois. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images) Getty Images Sioux from Standing Rock claim victory over Dakota Pipeline CANNON BALL, ND - DECEMBER 04: Fireworks fill the night sky above Oceti Sakowin Camp as activists celebrate after learning an easement had been denied for the Dakota Access Pipeline near the edge of the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation on December 4, 2016 outside Cannon Ball, North Dakota. The US Army Corps of Engineers announced today that it will not grant an easement to the Dakota Access Pipeline to cross under a lake on the Sioux Tribes Standing Rock reservation, ending a months-long standoff. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images) Getty Images Sioux from Standing Rock claim victory over Dakota Pipeline CANNON BALL, ND - DECEMBER 05: Despite blizzard conditions, military veterans march in support of the "water protectors" at Oceti Sakowin Camp on the edge of the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation on December 5, 2016 outside Cannon Ball, North Dakota. Over the weekend a large group of military veterans joined native Americans and activists from around the country who have been at the camp for several months trying to halt the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline. Yesterday the US Army Corps of Engineers announced that it will not grant an easement for the pipeline to cross under a lake on the Sioux Tribes Standing Rock reservation. The proposed 1,172-mile-long pipeline would transport oil from the North Dakota Bakken region through South Dakota, Iowa and into Illinois. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images) Getty Images Sioux from Standing Rock claim victory over Dakota Pipeline CANNON BALL, ND - DECEMBER 04: Native American and other activists celebrate after learning an easement had been denied for the Dakota Access Pipeline at Oceti Sakowin Camp on the edge of the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation on December 4, 2016 outside Cannon Ball, North Dakota. The US Army Corps of Engineers announced today that it will not grant an easement to the Dakota Access Pipeline to cross under a lake on the Sioux Tribes Standing Rock reservation, ending a months-long standoff. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images) Getty Sioux from Standing Rock claim victory over Dakota Pipeline CANNON BALL, ND - DECEMBER 04: Chief Arvol Looking Horse of the Lakota/Dakota/Nakota Nation listens to speakers during an interfaith ceremony at Oceti Sakowin Camp on the edge of the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation on December 4, 2016 outside Cannon Ball, North Dakota. Native Americans and activists from around the country have been gathering at the camp for several months trying to halt the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline. Today the US Army Corps of Engineers announced that it will not grant an easement for the pipeline to cross under a lake on the Sioux Tribes Standing Rock reservation, ending the months-long standoff. The proposed 1,172-mile-long pipeline would transport oil from the North Dakota Bakken region through South Dakota, Iowa and into Illinois. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images) Getty Images Sioux from Standing Rock claim victory over Dakota Pipeline CANNON BALL, ND - DECEMBER 04: An Native American activist rides down fom a ridge which overlooks Oceti Sakowin Camp on the edge of the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation on December 4, 2016 outside Cannon Ball, North Dakota. Native Americans and activists from around the country have been gathering at the camp for several months trying to halt the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline. The proposed 1,172-mile-long pipeline would transport oil from the North Dakota Bakken region through South Dakota, Iowa and into Illinois. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images) Getty Images Sioux from Standing Rock claim victory over Dakota Pipeline CANNON BALL, ND - DECEMBER 05: Despite blizzard conditions, military veterans march in support of the "water protectors" at Oceti Sakowin Camp on the edge of the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation on December 5, 2016 outside Cannon Ball, North Dakota. Over the weekend a large group of military veterans joined native Americans and activists from around the country who have been at the camp for several months trying to halt the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline. Yesterday the US Army Corps of Engineers announced that it will not grant an easement for the pipeline to cross under a lake on the Sioux Tribes Standing Rock reservation. The proposed 1,172-mile-long pipeline would transport oil from the North Dakota Bakken region through South Dakota, Iowa and into Illinois. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images) Getty Images Sioux from Standing Rock claim victory over Dakota Pipeline CANNON BALL, ND - DECEMBER 04: Political activist Cornel West listen to speakers during an interfaith ceremony at Oceti Sakowin Camp on the edge of the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation on December 4, 2016 outside Cannon Ball, North Dakota. Native Americans and activists from around the country have been gathering at the camp for several months trying to halt the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline. Today the US Army Corps of Engineers announced that it will not grant an easement for the pipeline to cross under a lake on the Sioux Tribes Standing Rock reservation, ending the months-long standoff. The proposed 1,172-mile-long pipeline would transport oil from the North Dakota Bakken region through South Dakota, Iowa and into Illinois. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images) Getty Images Sioux from Standing Rock claim victory over Dakota Pipeline Activists hold hands during a prayer circle as they try to surround the entire camp at Oceti Sakowin Camp on the edge of the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation on December 4, 2016 outside Cannon Ball, North Dakota. Native Americans and activists from around the country gather at the camp trying to halt the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline. / AFP / JIM WATSON (Photo credit should read JIM WATSON/AFP/Getty Images) AFP/Getty Images Sioux from Standing Rock claim victory over Dakota Pipeline Activists celebrate at Oceti Sakowin Camp on the edge of the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation on December 4, 2016 outside Cannon Ball, North Dakota, after hearing that the Army Corps of Engineers has denied the current route for the Dakota Access pipeline. / AFP / JIM WATSON (Photo credit should read JIM WATSON/AFP/Getty Images) AFP/Getty Images Sioux from Standing Rock claim victory over Dakota Pipeline CANNON BALL, ND - DECEMBER 04: Chief Arvol Looking Horse (L) of the Lakota/Dakota/Nakota Nation listens as political activist Cornel West speaks during an interfaith ceremony at Oceti Sakowin Camp on the edge of the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation on December 4, 2016 outside Cannon Ball, North Dakota. Native Americans and activists from around the country have been gathering at the camp for several months trying to halt the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline. Today the US Army Corps of Engineers announced that it will not grant an easement for the pipeline to cross under a lake on the Sioux Tribes Standing Rock reservation, ending the months-long standoff. The proposed 1,172-mile-long pipeline would transport oil from the North Dakota Bakken region through South Dakota, Iowa and into Illinois. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images) Getty Images Sioux from Standing Rock claim victory over Dakota Pipeline CANNON BALL, ND - DECEMBER 05: Military veterans from Southern California collect firewood for their campsite at Oceti Sakowin Camp on the edge of the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation on December 5, 2016 outside Cannon Ball, North Dakota. Over the weekend a large group of military veterans joined native Americans and activists from around the country who have been at the camp for several months trying to halt the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline. Yesterday the US Army Corps of Engineers announced that it will not grant an easement for the pipeline to cross under a lake on the Sioux Tribes Standing Rock reservation. The proposed 1,172-mile-long pipeline would transport oil from the North Dakota Bakken region through South Dakota, Iowa and into Illinois. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images) Getty Images Sioux from Standing Rock claim victory over Dakota Pipeline CANNON BALL, ND - DECEMBER 05: Despite blizzard conditions, military veterans march in support of the "water protectors" at Oceti Sakowin Camp on the edge of the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation on December 5, 2016 outside Cannon Ball, North Dakota. Over the weekend a large group of military veterans joined native Americans and activists from around the country who have been at the camp for several months trying to halt the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline. Yesterday the US Army Corps of Engineers announced that it will not grant an easement for the pipeline to cross under a lake on the Sioux Tribes Standing Rock reservation. The proposed 1,172-mile-long pipeline would transport oil from the North Dakota Bakken region through South Dakota, Iowa and into Illinois. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images) Getty Images Sioux from Standing Rock claim victory over Dakota Pipeline CANNON BALL, ND - DECEMBER 03: Activists participate in an art project conceived by Cannupa Hunska Luger, from the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, at Oceti Sakowin Camp on the edge of the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation on December 3, 2016 outside Cannon Ball, North Dakota. Native Americans and activists from around the country have been gathering at the camp for several months trying to halt the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline. The proposed 1,172-mile-long pipeline would transport oil from the North Dakota Bakken region through South Dakota, Iowa and into Illinois. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images) Getty Images Sioux from Standing Rock claim victory over Dakota Pipeline CANNON BALL, ND - DECEMBER 05: Military veterans are briefed on cold-weather safety issues and their overall role at Oceti Sakowin Camp on the edge of the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation on December 5, 2016 outside Cannon Ball, North Dakota. Over the weekend a large group of military veterans joined native Americans and activists from around the country who have been at the camp for several months trying to halt the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline. Yesterday the US Army Corps of Engineers announced that it will not grant an easement for the pipeline to cross under a lake on the Sioux Tribes Standing Rock reservation. The proposed 1,172-mile-long pipeline would transport oil from the North Dakota Bakken region through South Dakota, Iowa and into Illinois. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images) Getty Images Sioux from Standing Rock claim victory over Dakota Pipeline CANNON BALL, ND - DECEMBER 04: Native American and other activists celebrate after learning an easement had been denied for the Dakota Access Pipeline at Oceti Sakowin Camp on the edge of the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation on December 4, 2016 outside Cannon Ball, North Dakota. The US Army Corps of Engineers announced today that it will not grant an easement to the Dakota Access Pipeline to cross under a lake on the Sioux Tribes Standing Rock reservation, ending a months-long standoff. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images) Getty Images Sioux from Standing Rock claim victory over Dakota Pipeline CANNON BALL, ND - DECEMBER 04: Native American activists celebrate after learning an easement had been denied for the Dakota Access Pipeline at Oceti Sakowin Camp on the edge of the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation on December 4, 2016 outside Cannon Ball, North Dakota. The US Army Corps of Engineers announced today that it will not grant an easement to the Dakota Access Pipeline to cross under a lake on the Sioux Tribes Standing Rock reservation, ending a months-long standoff. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images) Getty Images Sioux from Standing Rock claim victory over Dakota Pipeline CANNON BALL, ND - DECEMBER 04: Native American and other activists celebrate after learning an easement had been denied for the Dakota Access Pipeline at Oceti Sakowin Camp on the edge of the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation on December 4, 2016 outside Cannon Ball, North Dakota. The US Army Corps of Engineers announced today that it will not grant an easement to the Dakota Access Pipeline to cross under a lake on the Sioux Tribes Standing Rock reservation, ending a months-long standoff. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images) Getty Images Sioux from Standing Rock claim victory over Dakota Pipeline Activists celebrate at Oceti Sakowin Camp on the edge of the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation on December 4, 2016 outside Cannon Ball, North Dakota, after hearing that the Army Corps of Engineers has denied the current route for the Dakota Access pipeline. The US Army Corps of Engineers on Sunday announced they will no longer allow the Dakota Access Pipeline to cross under a lake on the Standing Rock reservation in North Dakota, marking a huge win for Native Americans and protesters who had long opposed the construction. / AFP / JIM WATSON (Photo credit should read JIM WATSON/AFP/Getty Images) AFP/Getty Images

Even if Mr Trump won a legal battle, he would face a fight on the ground. Mr Moreno said people were already discussing strategies for direct action.

Audra Antone, who lives in the states Gila River Indian Community and whose family is Oodham, told the Guardian if the government tried to start construction, large protests like at Standing Rock could emerge.

Its divide and conquer again. We need to stand our ground as Native American people, said Ms Antone. Were going backward if we do not stand up and fight.
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A Republican lawmaker has proposed a bill that could lead to people who wear their trousers too low being fined.

Thomas Weathersby, who serves in the US House of Representatives on behalf of Mississippi, believes wearing trousers that exposes underwear is vulgar, and said those who did so may even need counselling.

In a bill shown to representatives, Mr Weathersby said his aim was to prohibit the wearing of pants, shorts or clothing bottoms that expose underwear or body parts in an indecent or vulgar manner, and to provide penalties for violations.

The lawmaker suggested that a warning be given for a first offence, and fines of $20, $30 and $40 for third, fourth and five offences.

A fine of $100 (80) should be imposed for a sixth offence, Mr Weathersby said, as well as psychological and social counseling by the Department of Mental Health.

Personally, I like to see people dressed when theyre in public and I like to see people with their pants up, Mr Weathersby told Mississippi Today. Various local governments around the US have recently suggested the implementation of a similar law.

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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. 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Last summer a town in South Carolina passed a law which fined residents up to $600 (480) for wearing low-hanging trousers that display their underwear.

The council of Timmonsville Town passed the second reading of the ordinance with council member William James, stating that it was about integrity and respect.

In September 2015, an Alabama council officer claimed God had told him to ban saggy trousers, in order to spare his town from indecency.
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A judge has blocked a Texas law requiring the burial of foetuses after women have undergone terminations or suffered miscarriages, saying the policy would unlawfully restrict access to abortion.

The new legislation was proposed last July by Texass pro-life Republican Governor Greg Abbott and approved by the state in November.

The rule would have forced abortion clinics to bury foetuses instead of disposing of them in a sanitary landfill.

It said foetuses should be handled in the same way as a deceased person using the process of cremation, entombment, burial, or placement in a niche or by using the process of cremation followed by placement of the ashes in a niche, grave, or scattering of ashes as authorised by law.

Governor Abbott said in a fundraising email published in The Texas Tribune last year: I believe it is imperative to establish higher standards that reflect our respect for the sanctity of life.

But US District Judge Sam Sparks found the rule placed burdens of access to abortion that substantially outweighed the benefits.

Abortion providers argued the rule could force clinics to close because there are only a limited number of providers able to deal with such burials.

They also said they feared protests by anti-abortion activists could discourage cemeteries from doing business with abortion clinics.

The judge said the proposed law would allow state health officials to exercise arbitrary, and potentially discriminatory enforcement on an issue connected to abortion and therefore sensitive and hotly contested.

A public outcry followed the proposal, with healthcare providers, funeral operators and feminist groups all expressing opposition, and some women showing their disgust by sending used tampons to Mr Abbott.

The Texas Medical Association and the Texas Hospital Association said it would require a women who had miscarried at home to bring their own foetal remains to a clinic to arrange a burial.

It is estimated that 10 to 15 per cent of women miscarry, and one hospital estimated an average of 140 foetuses are disposed of each month from miscarriages or ectopic pregnancies.

It was unclear who would have been responsible for the costs of the burials, and reproductive rights lawyers warned the proposed rule would almost certainly trigger costly litigation.

Planned Parenthood objected because the rule would not apply to other human tissue that might be removed during surgery or to existing disposal methods for the placenta and other tissue that results from miscarriages and abortions.

But anti-abortion groups, which have a powerful voice in Texas, applauded the rule change, agreeing with Mr Abbott that foetal remains should not be treated as medical waste.

Abortion was legalised in Texas and across the US in 1973 following the landmark court ruling in the Roe v Wade case, but lawmakers have consistently attempted to limit the provision of terminations ever since.

In June 2016, the Supreme Court struck down Texas unconstitutional attempts to shut down abortion clinics by imposing harsh restrictions.

Fears have been expressed about reproductive rights in the US since Mr Trump was elected because of comments he made during the campaign that there should be some form of punishment for women who undergo abortion if it is banned.

After a public outcry, he later said that he meant the doctors and clinics offering the procedure should be punished rather than the women having abortions.

Mr Trump has gone from being publicly pro-choice in 1999 to being against abortion today, although he says he would allow exceptions such as in the case of rape or incest.

On his first day in the Oval Office, Mr Trump signed an executive order banning federal money from going to international groups that perform or provide information on abortions.

Mr Trump will soon appoint a Supreme Court judge and is expected to select one with conservative views.

Although another conservative pick will not necessarily result in the overturning of the 1973 law, but a second or third such choice in the future could turn the majority of justices towards a pro-life stance.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxon plans to appeal the preliminary injunction granted by Judge Sparks.
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On International Holocaust Remembrance Day, one twitter account has tweeted out the individual stories of hundreds of Jewish refugees who were turned away by the US after attempting to escape the Nazis.

The St Louis ship sailed from Hamburg to Cuba in 1939, carrying more than 900 passengers fleeing the Nazis. Most were not allowed to disembark when they got there.

Of those that were sent back, 254 people were killed, most in Auschwitz or Buchenwald concentration camps.

Recommended Donald Trump does not mention Jews in Holocaust memorial statement

Each person - their name and place of death, sometimes with a photograph, has been tweeted by one account called "St Louis Manifest" to remind social media users of the horrors which took place within living memory and which led to more than six million Jews being killed.

The remembrance tweets are particularly poignant in 2017 as Donald Trump sent out a statement which talked of "the innocent" killed in the Holocaust but which did not specifically mention the Jewish people.

Mr Trump has finished his first week in the Oval Office by signing an executive order to ban Syrian refugees from entering the country, as well as imposing a blanket, 120-day ban on refugees from six other Muslim-majority and war-torn countries.

The US only took in around 12,500 Syrians in 2016, much less than other countries.

In 1939, the UK, Belgium, France and the Netherlands reached agreements with Jewish organisations to take in around 900 Jews from the St Louis ship.

 Donald Trump announces a ban on refugees and all visitors from Muslim-majority countries

"The fact that President Trumps order appears designed to specifically limit the entry of Muslims evokes horrible memories among American Jews of the shameful period leading up to World War Two, when the United States failed to provide a safe haven for the vast majority of Jews in Europe trying to escape Nazi persecution," said Jeremy Ben-Ami, president of the pro-Israel nonprofit organisation J Street.

"Most ultimately perished in the Holocaust. That episode remains a blot on the conscience of the United States. It is a terrible irony that today, the same day on which this order is to be signed, is also International Holocaust Remembrance Day."

Mr Trumps former rival for the Presidency, Hillary Clinton, spoke of the incident in 1939 during the 2016 campaign trail.

"Now, we've had dark chapters in our history before," she told the Jewish lobbying group AIPAC.

"If you see bigotry oppose it. If you see violence condemn it. If you see a bully, stand up to him," she said.
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War with the US under Donald Trump is not just a slogan and becoming a practical reality, a senior Chinese military official has said.

The remarks were published on the Peoples Liberation Army website, apparently in response to the aggressive rhetoric towards China from America's new administration.

They communicated a view from inside the Central Military Commission, which has overall authority of Chinas armed forces.

 Rex Tillerson calls China's actions in the South China Sea 'illegal'

Quoted in the South China Morning Post, the official from the Commissions Defence Mobilisation Department wrote: A war within the presidents term or war breaking out tonight are not just slogans, they are becoming a practical reality.

The official also called for military deployments in the tense South and East China Seas and for a missile defence system to guard the Korean peninsula, another regional hotspot, the Post reported.

The US should also reconsider its strategy in the Asia-Pacific region, the official wrote.

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

Mr Trump and members of his administration have consistently voiced a hard line against China. Mr Trump has branded the country a currency manipulator and accusing the country of underhand trading and economic tactics.

But more significantly in security terms, Mr Trump has also ignored the USs longstanding One China policy, publicly engaging with the President of Taiwan, Tsai Ing-wen, in a move that was hugely antagonising for Beijing.

China strongly regards Taiwan as part of its territory and the US has tacitly respected this for decades, but Mr Trump signalled a departure from this policy.

Secretary of State Rex Tillerson has also advocated a US naval blockade of artificial Chinese islands in the South China Sea  which Beijing could interpret as an act of war.

 Taiwan simulates China attacks during two days of military drills

Further suggestions China is preparing for conflict emerged this week, with unconfirmed reports the military has moved long range missiles closer to the north east border in Heilongjiang province -- within firing range of the US.

Chinese social media has carried pictures claiming to show the Dongfeng-41 advanced intercontinental ballistic missile system near the Russian border.

Provocative state-run tabloid The Global Times suggested the Peoples Liberation Army could have leaked the photos on social media as a warning to Mr Trump.

However, Chinese President Xi Jinping has also recently called for the reduction of nuclear weapons.
After a 15-year hiatus, Malta is represented again in the Miss Universe beauty pageant with Martha Fenech, 26, as the representative. This is not the first international beauty pageant of the Maltese model, who also works as a brand PR representative for a global cosmetics company.



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In 2008, Fenech was crowned Miss World Malta. She competed at Miss World 2008 in Johannesburg, South Africa, but did not place.



After more than eight years, Fenech is back and is competing against 85 other candidates at Miss Universe 2016. If crowned as Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach's successor, she will become the first Miss Malta to win Miss Universe.



Fenech arrived in the Philippines on Jan. 12, Northbound Philippines News reported. She was at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport with Miss Peru Valeria Piazza, Miss Belize Rebecca Rath, Miss Myanmar Htet Htet Htun and Miss Turkey Sila Cakir on that day greeting their Filipino fans.



On Jan. 30, Monday, Wurtzbach will crown her successor at the Mall of Asia Arena, Pasay, Metro Manila, Philippines. The judging panel during the coronation night includes Miss Universe 1993 Dayanara Torres from Puerto Rico, Miss Universe 1994 Sushmita Sen from India and Miss Universe 2011 Leila Lopes from Angola. Joining them are theatrical, TV and film producer Francine LeFrak, Paper Magazine editorial director Mickey Boardman and "The Real Housewives of Atlanta" star Cynthia Bailey.



Steve Harvey is returning as the host of the coronation night with "America's Next Top Model" judge Ashley Graham as the backstage host and Flo Rida and Boys II Men as the musical performers. Harvey arrived in Manila on Jan. 28, Saturday, ABS-CBN News reported.



On Jan. 18, Wurtzbach participated in a dinner program in Baguio City, Philippines, which was hosted by Miss Universe 2011 third runner-up Shamcey Supsup. Distinguished people of the city welcomed them along with Miss Universe Organization president Paula Shugart, Filipino tycoon Chavit Singson, a major sponsor, and some Miss Universe 2016 candidates including Piazza and Fenech.



Have a glimpse of the Miss Universe 2016 event in Baguio here:






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The UK has signed a 100m deal to design new fighter jets for Turkey, despite the countrys President undertaking a severe crackdown on his regimes opponents.

Theresa May said it could open the way to billions of pounds worth of business, as she became the first foreign leader to visit Turkey since Recep Tayyip Erdogan ordered a wave of arrests and sackings in the wake of last summers coup.

Questioned over human rights concerns, Downing Street officials said the deal to design the TF-X jets was sealed in light of Turkeys status as a Nato ally and claimed Ms May could approach human rights as a separate issue.

The PM did warn the President it was important for him to uphold human rights, as the stony faced Turkish leader looked on.

The UK is already mired in controversy regarding some 3bn worth of licences granted to export arms to Saudi Arabia as the Kingdom embarked on a deadly bombing campaign in Yemen.

The announcement in Ankara yesterday means BAE Systems and Turkish Aerospace Industries have signed a heads of agreement, establishing a partnership for the development of the Turkish Fighter Programme or TF-X.

Downing Street sources said the 100m contract has the potential to facilitate multibillion pound contracts between the UK and Turkish firms over the projects 20-year lifetime.

Ms May added: It marks the start of a new and deeper trading relationship with Turkey and will potentially secure British and Turkish jobs and prosperity for decades to come.

The failed coup last year saw Mr Erdogan enforce a state of emergency, order a wave of arrests, close numerous media outlets and remove thousands of public officials  including judges, teachers and university academics  from their jobs.

A Downing Street spokeswoman said: Those are separate issues. Turkey is an important Nato partner and so our cooperation on both security and defence is in light of that.

She added: The response to the coup is that the UK has expressed strong support for Turkeys democracy and institutions.

But we have also been very clear that we urge Turkey's response to be proportionate and in line with international human rights obligations.

The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Show all 9 1 /9 The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the media White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer takes questions during the daily press briefing Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the Trans-Pacific Partnership Union leaders applaud US President Donald Trump for signing an executive order withdrawing the US from the Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations during a meeting in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington DC. Mr Trump issued a presidential memorandum in January announcing that the US would withdraw from the trade deal Getty The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the Mexico wall A US Border Patrol vehicle sits waiting for illegal immigrants at a fence opening near the US-Mexico border near McAllen, Texas. The number of incoming immigrants has surged ahead of the upcoming Presidential inauguration of Donald Trump, who has pledged to build a wall along the US-Mexico border. A signature campaign promise, Mr Trump outlined his intention to build a border wall on the US-Mexico border days after taking office Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and abortion US President Donald Trump signs an executive order as Chief of Staff Reince Priebus looks on in the Oval Office of the White House. Mr Trump reinstated a ban on American financial aide being granted to non-governmental organizations that provide abortion counseling, provide abortion referrals, or advocate for abortion access outside of the United States Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the Dakota Access pipeline Opponents of the Keystone XL and Dakota Access pipelines hold a rally as they protest US President Donald Trump's executive orders advancing their construction, at Columbus Circle in New York. US President Donald Trump signed executive orders reviving the construction of two controversial oil pipelines, but said the projects would be subject to renegotiation Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and 'Obamacare' Nancy Pelosi who is the minority leader of the House of Representatives speaks beside House Democrats at an event to protect the Affordable Care Act in Los Angeles, California. US President Donald Trump's effort to make good on his campaign promise to repeal and replace the healthcare law failed when Republicans failed to get enough votes. Mr Trump has promised to revisit the matter Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Donald Trump and 'sanctuary cities' US President Donald Trump signed an executive order in January threatening to pull funding for so-called "sanctuary cities" if they do not comply with federal immigration law AP The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the travel ban US President Donald Trump has attempted twice to restrict travel into the United States from several predominantly Muslim countries. The first attempt, in February, was met with swift opposition from protesters who flocked to airports around the country. That travel ban was later blocked by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. The second ban was blocked by a federal judge a day before it was scheduled to be implemented in mid-March SANDY HUFFAKER/AFP/Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and climate change US President Donald Trump sought to dismantle several of his predecessor's actions on climate change in March. His order instructed the Environmental Protection Agency to reevaluate the Clean Power Plan, which would cap power plant emissions Shannon Stapleton/Reuters

According to Amnesty International, the human rights situation in the country has deteriorated markedly since the coup, including cases of excessive use of force by police and ill treatment in detention.

The group has said Ms May's visit is a vital opportunity to raise concerns with the countrys increasingly powerful leader, though it was unclear ahead of the meeting if the issue would be directly raised with the President.

The UK has also signed off 3.3bn in arms exports to Saudi Arabia since the start of its offensive in Yemen, leading the Campaign Against Arms Trade to launch a High Court challenge over the legality of the sales.

The Ministry of Defence has said it has noted 252 alleged violations of international humanitarian law carried out by the Saudi-led coalition in Yemens civil war, in which more than 10,000 have died.
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The mayor of Berlin has warned Donald Trump against repeating the slavery and suffering experienced by his own city with his planned Mexican border wall.

Michael Muller urged the new US President to remember his predecessor Ronald Regans famous appeal to tear down the communist-era Berlin Wall, adding: Dear Mr President, dont build this wall!

He cited barriers in Korea and Cyprus as modern examples of the Iron Curtain that divided millions of Europeans during the Cold War.

 Donald Trump wants import tax to pay for Mexico wall

Berlin cannot look on without comment when a country plans to build a new wall, Mr Muller said.

We Berliners know best how much suffering the division of an entire continent, cemented by barbed wire and wall, has caused.

The mayor said the destruction of the wall in 1989 was one of the most important moments of the 20th Century, and that such recent historical experiences must not be disregarded particularly by those to whom we in large part owe our freedom, the Americans.

I appeal to the President of the United States not to go the way of isolation and exclusion, he added.

The fall of the Berlin Wall  in pictures Show all 10 1 /10 The fall of the Berlin Wall  in pictures The fall of the Berlin Wall  in pictures The fall of the Berlin Wall  25 years on East German border guards stand on a section of the Berlin wall in front of the Brandenburg gate on November 11, 1989 AFP/Getty The fall of the Berlin Wall  in pictures The fall of the Berlin Wall  25 years on Cars line up at the Pomezy border station, on November 5, 1989 as East German refugees cross the border to West Germany AFP/Getty The fall of the Berlin Wall  in pictures The fall of the Berlin Wall  25 years on East German refugees penned behind barriers outside the West German embassy wait for the buses to take them to the railway station to leave Prague on 4th October 1989 AFP/Getty The fall of the Berlin Wall  in pictures The fall of the Berlin Wall  25 years on Thousands of young East Berliners gather at the Berlin Wall, near the Brandenburg Gate on November 11, 1989 AFP/Getty The fall of the Berlin Wall  in pictures The fall of the Berlin Wall  25 years on East Berliners climb onto the Berlin Wall to celebrate the effective end of the city's partition, 31st December 1989 Getty The fall of the Berlin Wall  in pictures The fall of the Berlin Wall  25 years on A replica of a watchtower of the former German Democratic Republic (GDR) on display in the "Potsdamer Platz Arkaden" shopping mall in Berlin where an exhibition titled "25 Years of the Fall of the Berlin Wall" has been staged AFP/Getty The fall of the Berlin Wall  in pictures The fall of the Berlin Wall  25 years on Berliners from East and West celebrate at the Brandenburg Gate in December 1989 AFP/Getty The fall of the Berlin Wall  in pictures The fall of the Berlin Wall  25 years on East German drivers queue at the Schirnding border crossing into Czecho-slovakia five days before the fall of the Berlin EPA The fall of the Berlin Wall  in pictures The fall of the Berlin Wall  25 years on The Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev, watched by his wife Raisa, right, kisses his East German counterpart Erich Honecker in East Berlin in October 1989 AP The fall of the Berlin Wall  in pictures The fall of the Berlin Wall  25 years on Police from both sides stand idly by as the Berlin Wall is breached for the first time between East and West, at the Sandkrug Bridge crossing-point on Invaliden Strasse, in November 1989 AFP/Getty

Berlin was divided from 1961 by a wall constructed by the communist dictatorship in East Germany to stop its citizens from escaping to the West, becoming a potent symbol of Cold War oppression.

Mr Trump is aiming to fulfil his headline campaign promise by ordering American officials to begin designing and constructing a barrier along the 2,000 mile US-Mexico border.

Mexico has refused demands to pay for the project, causing the White House to threaten new taxes on Mexican imports to cover its cost, and President Enrique Pena Nieto to cancel a planned Washington visit in protest.

He and Mr Trump have since agreed to work out their differences over the issue.
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The Syrian government has denied rumours President Bashar al-Assad has suffered a stroke.

In a statement on Facebook, the government said Assad was in excellent health and carrying out his functions quite naturally.

It said the Syrian people had become immune to such lies which and said the rumours would only provoke derision.

The denial follows reports by a Lebanese newspaper, al-Mustaqbal, which quoted reliable sources saying Assad had suffered from a cerebral infarction and was currently being treated in hospital.

Another Lebanese newspaper, al-Diyar, which supports the Syrian regime, also reported on Friday that the dictator had suffered from a stroke but had since retracted the story, the Saudi-owned news channel al-Arabiya reported.

Earlier this week, Saudi-owned newspaper Asharq al-Awsat claimed the presidents mental health was suffering after almost six years of civil war.

Citing unnamed sources it said Russian officials believed Assad was exhausted by five years of war and tension and had developed a nervous tick in his left eye as a result of psychological pressure.

The rumours come at a time when the tide of the war is turning in Assads favour.

After months of heavy bombardment Syrian and Russian forces broke the siege of Aleppo at the end of last year.

Meanwhile over in Washington, Donald Trumps signalling that he intends to cooperate with Russia more closely on Syria has led to fears that US will lessen its opposition to Moscows actions in the regime.

During an interview with The Sunday Times last year Assad said he had no trouble sleeping at night when he was asked if the deaths of children killed in Aleppo and elsewhere weighed on his mind.

In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Show all 30 1 /30 In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria A Syrian family arrives at a checkpoint, manned by pro-government forces, at the al-Hawoz street roundabout, after leaving Aleppo's eastern neighbourhoods Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria A Syrian woman, fleeing violence in the restive Bustan al-Qasr neighbourhood, reacts as she stands with her children in Aleppo's Fardos neighbourhood, after regime troops retook the area from rebel fighters Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian pro-regime fighters, gesture as they drive past resident fleeing violence in the restive Bustan al-Qasr neighbourhood, in Aleppo's Fardos neighbourhood Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian rebels withdrew from six more neighbourhoods in their one-time bastion of east Aleppo in the face of advancing government troops, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian rebels withdrew from six more neighbourhoods in their one-time bastion of east Aleppo in the face of advancing government troops, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian residents, fleeing violence in the restive Bustan al-Qasr neighbourhood, arrive in Aleppo's Fardos neighbourhood , after regime troops retook the area from rebel fighters Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian pro-regime fighters, gesture as they drive past residents fleeing violence in the restive Bustan al-Qasr neighbourhood, in Aleppo's Fardos neighbourhood Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian residents, fleeing violence in the restive Bustan al-Qasr neighbourhood, arrive in Aleppo's Fardos neighbourhood, after regime troops retook the area from rebel fighters Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian residents, fleeing violence in the restive Bustan al-Qasr neighbourhood, arrive in Aleppo's Fardos neighbourhood Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria A Syrian pro-regime fighter speaks with a child, as residents flee violence in the restive Bustan al-Qasr neighbourhood. Syrian rebels withdrew from six more neighbourhoods in their one-time bastion of east Aleppo in the face of advancing government troops AFP/Getty Images In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Smoke rises as seen from a governement-held area of Aleppo, Syria Reuters In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian soldiers targeting rebels-held areas in the eastern neighborhoods in Aleppo, Syria. According to media reports, the army is now holding on 99 percent of Aleppois eastern neighborhoods EPA In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian pro-government forces patrol Aleppo's eastern al-Salihin neighbourhood after troops retook the area from rebel fighters Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian soldiers rest following the battle at al-Sheik Saeed neighborhood in Aleppo, Syria EPA In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria A Syrian pro-government fighter walking past closed shops in the Bab al-Nasr district of Aleppo's Old City. Once renowned for its bustling souks, grand citadel and historic gates, Aleppo's Old City has been rendered virtually unrecognisable by some of the worst violence of Syria's war Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria The crucial battle for Aleppo entered its 'final phase' after Syrian rebels retreated into a small pocket of their former bastion in the face of new army advances. The retreat leaves opposition fighters confined to just a handful of neighbourhoods in southeast Aleppo, the largest of them Sukkari and Mashhad Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian civilans arrive at a checkpoint, manned by pro-government forces, at the al-Hawoz street roundabout, after leaving Aleppo's eastern neighbourhoods. Syria's government has retaken at least 85 percent of east Aleppo, which fell to rebels in 2012, since beginning its operation Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian civilians flee the Sukkari neighbourhood towards safer rebel-held areas in southeastern Aleppo Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrians celebrate in the government-held Mogambo neighbourhood of the northern Syrian city of Aleppo, after rebel fighters retreated into a small pocket of their former bastion in the face of new army advances Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrians celebrate in the government-held Mogambo neighbourhood of the northern Syrian city of Aleppo, after rebel fighters retreated into a small pocket of their former bastion in the face of new army advances. The fall of Aleppo would be the worst rebel defeat since Syria's conflict began in 2011, and leave the government in control of the country's five major cities Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria A Syrian refugee camp in the Bekaa Valley, Lebanon, close to the Syrian border PA wire In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian refugee Aliya inside the tent where she lives with her husband and ten children in a camp in the Bekaa Valley, Lebanon, close to the Syrian border PA wire In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian refugee women and children outside the entrance to their tents in the refugee camp in the Bekaa Valley, Lebanon, close to the Syrian border PA Wire In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria A Syrian refugee camp in the Bekaa Valley, Lebanon, close to the Syrian border PA wire In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria A Syrian refugee camp in the Bekaa Valley, Lebanon, close to the Syrian border PA Wire In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria A Syrian refugee woman outside the entrance to the tent where her family live, in the refugee camp in the Bekaa Valley, Lebanon, close to the Syrian border PA wire In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria A vehicle drives past a mosque at night in Idlib, Syria. Picture taken with a long exposure Reuters In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Damaged buildings stand in the rebel-controlled town of Binnish in Idlib province, Syria Reuters In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria The night sky is seen through damaged windows in the rebel-controlled town of Binnish in Idlib province, Syria Reuters In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Damaged buildings stand in the rebel-controlled area of Maaret al-Numan in Idlib province, Syria Reuters

Laughing he said: I know the meaning of that question.

I sleep regular, I sleep and work and eat normal and do sports.

Around 400,000 people have been killed during the civil war which began in January 2011. Both sides have been accused of multiple war crimes and human rights abuses.

The Syrian regime has been condemned by the international community in particular for the use of sarin gas on civilians.
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Iran will block American citizens from entering the country in retaliation for Donald Trumps ban on travellers from seven majority-Muslim countries coming to the US, officials have said.

Tehrans foreign ministry said in a statement it would enforce its own ban until the offensive US limitations against Iranian nationals are lifted.

The US ban is an affront against the Muslim world, the statement said, adding it would be a great gift to extremists.

Mr Trumps policy of barring citizens from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen has caused outrage around the world.

The Republican billionaire signed an executive order on Friday that suspended travel visas for anyone from those seven countries of particular concern from entering the US for at least 90 days.

 Donald Trump supporters boo mention of immigrants during speech

The United Nations has condemned the ban and the International Organisation for Migration called on the new Presidents administration to continue offering asylum to people fleeing war and persecution.

The needs of refugees and migrants worldwide have never been greater and the US resettlement program is one of the most important in the world, the two agencies said in a joint statement.

The Iranian Foreign ministry statement released on Saturday evening read: While respecting the American people and distinguishing between them and the hostile policies of the U.S. government, Iran will implement the principle of reciprocity until the offensive U.S. limitations against Iranian nationals are lifted.

"The restrictions against travel by Muslims to America are an open affront against the Muslim world and the Iranian nation in particular and will be known as a great gift to extremists.

Earlier on Saturday, Irans President Hassan Rouhani issued a thinly-veiled criticism of the US President.

Without naming Mr Trump, he said now was not the time to build barriers between nations.

Iranian president Hassan Rouhani speaking during a ceremony in Tehran, Iran, 28 January 2017 (EPA)

"Today is not the time to erect walls between nations. They have forgotten that the Berlin wall fell years ago," he said in a speech.

"To annul world trade accords does not help their economy and does not serve the development and blooming of the world economy.

"This is the day for the world to get closer through trade."
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Theresa May will unveil fledgling trade discussions with Turkey as she arrives in the country for her first visit.

But the announcement comes as questions still hang over the Turkish President's severe response to the coup which has resulted in a crackdown on his opponents.

Ms May's trip to Turkey will be used to promote a new "joint working group" to prepare the ground for a formal trade agreement after Brexit.

A Downing Street official said the group would involve "work that goes on between officials to look at liberalising trade, reduce tariffs and pave the way for future trade cooperation".

But her visit comes after Mr Erdogan declared a state of emergency following last summer's coup attempt, which was followed by a wave of arrests, the closure of numerous media outlets and the removal of thousands of public officials  including judges, teachers and university academics  from their jobs.

According to Amnesty International, the human rights situation in the country has "deteriorated markedly" since the coup, including cases of excessive use of force by police and ill treatment in detention.

The group has said Ms May's visit is a "vital opportunity" to raise concerns with the country's increasingly powerful leader, whom Number 10 characterised as an "important ally".

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

Asked if she would raise human rights, a spokeswoman said: "The Prime Minister's approach is quite clear  she thinks it's important, and in the UK's national interest  to engage with Turkey on a range of issues  from defence and security cooperation to capitalising on trade opportunities."

But she went on: "We have already expressed our strong support for Turkeys democracy and institutions following the coup  but we have also been clear that we urge Turkey to ensure that their response is proportionate, justified and in line with international human rights obligations."

Ms May will also use the visit to Ankara to deepen security cooperation, particularly in relation to counter-terrorism and aviation. The joint working group on trade is the 13th that the UK now has with countries as it looks to cement its future trade relations with the world after Brexit.
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When the German chancellor, Angela Merkel, proposed a ban on the burqa and niqab at a conference of her political party in December 2016, she was following the lead of a number of countries in Europe which already have such legislation in place.

In France and Belgium a woman wearing a full-face veil can be jailed for up to seven days. In January 2017, there were also reports that Morocco had banned the production and sale of the burqa.

Merkel, who has faced criticism over her refugee policy, turned towards a ban on the Muslim veil as proof of her harder stance on integration in Germany.

The politicisation of the veil  whether it covers the full face (burqa), leaves the eyes open (niqab) or covers head and neck only (hijab, al-amira, khimar)  has a long history in European politics. And it often becomes a battleground for different ideologies at times of crisis.

Fantasies of unveiling

Throughout the 19th century, the Muslim veil functioned as an object of fascination for European travellers to the Middle East, despite the fact that Christians and Druzes  a religious sect with origins in 11th-century Egypt  would also veil. European photographers in the region produced eroticised representations of women lifting their veils and exposing their naked bodies. Reproduced as postcards, these images circulated across the Mediterranean, constructing the image of a Muslim woman whose erotic powers could be unleashed once the veil was lifted.

But in the 1950s, the veil played an important role during the Algerian war of independence against French colonial rule. Frantz Fanon, a Martinique-born psychiatrist and anti-colonial intellectual, described the French colonial doctrine in Algeria as follows:

"If we want to destroy the structure of Algerian society, its capacity for resistance, we must first of all conquer the women; we must go and find them behind the veil where they hide themselves and in the houses where the men keep them out of sight."

Fanon was a member of the Algerian National Liberation Front who considered womens ill-treatment by the French army to embody the whole countrys situation. For him, it was impossible for the colonial power to conquer Algeria without winning over its women to European norms.

In 1958, during the Algerian war of independence, mass unveiling ceremonies were staged across Algeria. The wives of French military officers unveiled some Algerian women to show that they were now siding with their French sisters. These spectacles formed part of an emancipation campaign aimed at demonstrating how Muslim women had been won over to European values and away from the independence struggle. They were also staged at a moment of political turmoil in mainland France, which was struggling politically and financially to maintain its colony in North Africa.

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. 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The unveilings were publicised and presented to the government in Paris as spontaneous acts. But the French leader Charles de Gaulle remained sceptical of the French settlers claims, and historians would later find that some of the women who participated in these ceremonies never even wore the veil before. Others were pressured by the army to participate.

A form of resistance

Following the staged unveilings, many Algerian women began wearing the veil. They wanted to make clear that they would define the terms of their emancipation  rather than being forcefully liberated by the French colonisers.

The unveilings had come a year after the end of the Battle of Algiers during which female freedom fighters began to carry explosives underneath the traditional white haik, a form of dress which dates back to Ottoman Algeria. But once this technique was detected by the army, the female fighters unveiled and chose European dress instead. This meant they could pass through French checkpoints unnoticed, allowing them to smuggle bombs  a scene depicted in Gillo Pontecorvos celebrated 1966 film Battle of Algiers. Almost 40 years later, the film was shown at the Pentagon following the invasion of Iraq, in order to scrutinise terrorist strategies.

After the collapse of French Algeria in 1962, many Algerian women in urban areas stopped wearing the veil, but with the rise of Islamic radicalism in the country which led to a civil war in the 1990s, veiling became mandatory.

Recommended All the countries with bans on wearing the veil in public

Mobilisation of the veil against Western systems of thought and values also occurred in the 1970s in Egypt when college-educated women returned to wearing the veil. Among the reasons cited for their choice was a rejection of Western consumerism and materialism, in favour of modesty and minimalism.

A screen on which to project anxiety

The veil offers a visible, public marker that can be mobilised to emphasise various political and social agendas. Under colonial rule, the veil became a sign that demarcated those who did not belong to the European system of thought. It continues to do so, and has become mobilised within political debates at times of crisis  for example in Germany by Merkel facing the rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany party.

According to Gabriele Boos-Niazy, the co-chair of Germanys Association for Muslim Women, there are no more than a hundred women in Germany who wear the full-face veil. In a country of 80m citizens, this forms 0.000125%. The focus on banning the full-face veil is not rational but ideological, with Muslim womens dress now embodying a range of wider fears around terrorism, Islam and immigration. The Muslim veil has become a screen onto which Europes anxieties and political struggles are being projected.

Europeans have a history of portraying the veil as foreign to the continents mentality  and this shows no sign of abating. Yet, considering the way Muslim women have used the veil as a way of resistance in the past, they are likely to do it again in the future.

Katarzyna Falecka, PhD student: History of Art, UCL. This article first appeared on The Conversation (theconversation.com)
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The World Food Programme (WFP) has been forced to cut food rations to 1.4 million people because the worlds richest countries have delayed paying the organisation.

The food rations of 1.4 million Iraqis, displaced in the war against Isis, had to be halved this month because of delays in payments from donor states.

The WFP is now in talks with the United States  its biggest donor  Germany and Japan to pay the money so they can be fully delivered.

Inger Marie Vennize, a spokeswoman for the World Food Programme, told Reuters: "This year somehow we are receiving commitments from donors a little bit late, we are talking with donors but we dont have enough money as of yet. We have had to reduce (the rations) as of this month. The 50 per cent cuts in monthly rations affect over 1.4 million people across Iraq."

It was unclear which countries had not provided money in time.

In Iraq, the cuts are already being felt at the Hassan Sham camp east of Mosul, a city which remains an Isis stronghold in the north of the country.

"They gave us a good amount of food in the beginning, but now they have reduced it," said Omar Shukri Mahmoud.

"They are giving an entire family the food supply of one person ... And there is no work at all ... we want to go back home," he told Reuters.

Safa Shaker, who has a family of 11, added: "We are a big family and this ration is not going to be enough. We escaped from Daesh [Isis] in order to have a chance to live and came here and now they have cut the aid. How are we supposed to live?"

The ration cut came as the United Nations condemned Donald Trumps ban on refugees and his order to prevent travellers from seven major Muslim countries  including Syria and Iraq  from entering the US.

The UN refugee agency (UNHCR) and International Organisation for Migration urged the Trump administration to continue its work with the UN and other agencies to ensure vital resettlement programmes for people fleeing conflict and persecution, whatever their background.

In pictures: Mosul offensive Show all 40 1 /40 In pictures: Mosul offensive In pictures: Mosul offensive A doctor carries an Iraqi newborn baby at a hospital in Mosul, Iraq July 18, 2017. Reuters In pictures: Mosul offensive Iraqi girls play at a yard of a school in Mosul, Iraq July 18, 2017alal Reuters In pictures: Mosul offensive A woman on crutches who is a relative of men accused of being Islamic State militants is seen at a camp in Bartella, east of Mosul, Iraq July 15, 2017. Picture taken July 15, 2017. Reuters In pictures: Mosul offensive A displaced girl, who fled from home carries a doll at Hamam al-Alil camp south of Mosul, Iraq July 13, 2017. Reuters In pictures: Mosul offensive Iraqi federal police members and civilians celebrate in the Old City of Mosul on 9 July 2017 after the government's announcement of the "liberation" of the embattled city. Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi's office said he was in "liberated" Mosul to congratulate "the heroic fighters and the Iraqi people on the achievement of the major victory" AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Mosul offensive A picture taken on 9 July 2017, shows a general view of the destruction in Mosul's Old City. Iraq will announce imminently a final victory in the nearly nine-month offensive to retake Mosul from jihadists, a US general said Saturday, as celebrations broke out among police forces in the city. AFP In pictures: Mosul offensive Members of the Iraqi federal police raise the victory gesture as they ride on a humvee while advancing through the Old City of Mosul on 28 June 2017, as the offensive continues to retake the last district held by Islamic State (IS) group fighters. AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Mosul offensive Smoke billows as Iraqi forces advance through the Old City of Mosul on 26 June 2017, during the ongoing offensive to retake the last district held by the Islamic State (IS) group. AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Mosul offensive An Iraqi man wearing the green scarf of the Shi'ite faith kisses an Iraqi Army soldier on safely reaching the Iraqi forces position as Iraqi civilians flee the Old City of west Mosul where heavy fighting continues on 23 June 2017. Iraqi forces continue to encounter stiff resistance with improvised explosive devices, car bombs, heavy mortar fire and snipers hampering their advance. Getty Images In pictures: Mosul offensive A picture taken from the inside of an Iraqi forces armoured vehicle shows residents walking through a damaged street as troops advance towards Mosul's Old City on 18 June 2017, during the ongoing offensive to retake the last district still held by the Islamic State (IS) group. Military commanders told AFP the assault had begun at dawn after overnight air strikes by the US-led coalition backing Iraqi forces. They said the jihadists were putting up fierce resistance. AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Mosul offensive Iraqi Army soldiers advance in a destroyed street after an Iraqi forces airstrike targeted an Islamic State sniper position 17 June 2017 in al-Shifa, the last district of west Mosul under Islamic State control. IS snipers, as well as car and suicide bomb attacks continue to hinder the Iraqi forces efforts to retake the final district. A series of airstrikes by Iraqi helicopter gunships attempted to hit multiple Islamic State sniper positions in al-Shifa. Getty Images In pictures: Mosul offensive An Iraqi soldier frisks a displaced Iraqi man at a temporary camp in the compound of the closed Nineveh International Hotel in Mosul on 16 June 2017 which was recovered by Iraqi troops from Islamic State group fighters earlier in the year. A screening centre set up in the compound's fairgrounds sees a constant stream of Iraqis fleeing the battle for Mosul, awaiting their turn to be checked by the Iraqi forces who are searching for suspected Islamic State (IS) group members. The small fairground lies at the end of a pontoon bridge across the Tigris recently opened to civilians that is the only physical link between the two banks of the river. AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Mosul offensive Iraqis staying at the al-Khazir camp swim in a river near the camp for internally displaced people, located between Arbil and Mosul on 11 June 2017. AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Mosul offensive Iraqi government forces drive on a road leading to Tal Afar on 9 June 2017, during ongoing battles to retake the city from Islamic State (IS) group fighters. AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Mosul offensive An Iraqi policeman carries a poster bearing an image of Mosul's iconic leaning minaret, known as the "Hadba" (Hunchback), on 22 June 2017. AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Mosul offensive Iraqis stand in line to receive food aid in western Mosul's Zanjili neighbourhood on 7 June 2017, during ongoing battles as Iraqi forces try to retake the city from Islamic State (IS) group fighters. Living conditions in Mosul have again deteriorated since the start of the Iraqi government's offensive on the city in October in which they retook a large part of the west of the city. AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Mosul offensive Displaced Iraqis carry lightbulbs and sacks as they evacuate from western Mosul's Zanjili neighbourhood as government forces advance in the area during their ongoing battle against Islamic State (IS) group fighters on 13 May 2017 AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Mosul offensive A member of the Iraqi Counter-Terrorism Service (CTS) flashes the victory gesture as he patrols in western Mosul's al-Islah al-Zaraye neighbourhood on 13 May 2017 AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Mosul offensive Iraqi army soldiers from the 9th armoured division on a truck flash the sign of victory as they drive back from Mosul to the town of Qaraqosh (also known as Hamdaniya) Getty In pictures: Mosul offensive Members of Iraqi forces flash the sign of victory on their vehicle as they advance towards Hammam al-Alil area south of Mosul Getty In pictures: Mosul offensive A member of Iraqi security forces gestures in Hammam al-Alil, south of Mosul, Iraq Reuters In pictures: Mosul offensive Iraqi children, one flashing the sign of victory, greet Iraqi army's soldiers from the 9th armoured division in the area of Ali Rash, adjacent to the eastern Al-Intissar neighbourhood of Mosul Getty In pictures: Mosul offensive Peshmerga forces look at a tunnel used by Islamic State militants near the town of Bashiqa, east of Mosul, during an operation to attack Islamic State militants in Mosul, Iraq Reuters In pictures: Mosul offensive An Iraqi soldier takes a photograph with his phone as his comrade stands next to a detained man, whom the Iraqi army soldiers accused of being an Islamic State fighter, who was fleeing with his family in the Intisar disrict of eastern Mosul, Iraq Reuters In pictures: Mosul offensive Iranian Kurdish female members of the Freedom Party of Kurdistan (PAK) hold a position in an area near the town of Bashiqa, some 25 kilometres north east of Mosul Getty In pictures: Mosul offensive Iraqi families, who fled their homes in Hamam al-Alil, gather on the outskirts of their town Getty In pictures: Mosul offensive Displaced people walk past a checkpoint near Qayara, south of Mosul, Iraq AP In pictures: Mosul offensive Iraqi families who were displaced by the ongoing operation by Iraqi forces against jihadists of the Islamic State group to retake the city of Mosul, are seen gathering in an area near Qayyarah In pictures: Mosul offensive A boy who just fled Abu Jarbuah village is seen with his family at a Kurdish Peshmerga position between two front lines near Bashiqa, east of Mosul, Iraq Reuters In pictures: Mosul offensive An Iraqi child eats a pomegranate upon the arrival of Iraqi forces in the village of Umm Mahahir, south of Mosul Getty In pictures: Mosul offensive People who just fled Abu Jarbuah village sit as they eat at a Kurdish Peshmerga position between two front lines near Bashiqa, east of Mosul, Iraq Reuters In pictures: Mosul offensive A couple who just fled Abu Jarbuah village are escorted by Kurdish Peshmerga soldiers Reuters In pictures: Mosul offensive Women carry a boy over a wall as civilians flee their houses in the village of Tob Zawa, Iraq AP In pictures: Mosul offensive An Iraqi soldier and a civilian ride a motorbike as smoke rises behind them, on the road between Qayyarah and Mosul Getty In pictures: Mosul offensive A member of Iraqi forces, wearing a skull mask, waits at a checkpoint for people fleeing the main hub city of Mosul Getty In pictures: Mosul offensive An Iraqi soldier sits at a checkpoint in an area near Qayyarah Getty In pictures: Mosul offensive Iraqi men prepare food portions for Iraqi forces deployed in areas south of Mosul Getty In pictures: Mosul offensive Iraqi forces celebrate upon the arrival of vehicles bringing food to them Getty In pictures: Mosul offensive Iraqi childen smoke cigarettes upon the arrival of Iraqi forces in the village of Umm Mahahir, south of Mosul Getty In pictures: Mosul offensive A member of Iraqi forces distributes drinks to children in the village of Umm Mahahir, south of Mosul Getty

During his first week in office, Mr Trump signed an executive order to slash funding to the UN by at least 40 per cent.

He also dismissed the UN last December as a "club" for people to "have a good time". The President's executive order could affect peacekeeping operations in 16 countries.

About 160,000 people have been displaced since the Isis-held city of Mosul was attacked by Iraqi forces in October.

A total of three million people have been forced to leave their homes in Iraq since Isis gained control of large areas of the country and neighbouring Syria in 2014.
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Bronzed, bikini-clad sylphs sip cocktails while well-fed sugar-daddies convene over cigars, and a shirtless DJ in mirrored Aviators spins thumping disco house under a makeshift canopied booth in the sand. It's just another afternoon on the beach in "Punta", as regulars call it. By turns referred to as the St-Tropez or Hamptons of South America, Punta del Este is exactly what you'd expect from those comparisons: a high-end festival of flesh and flash.

Attracting Brazilian millionaires and high-society types from Buenos Aires, the area explodes into one continuous beach bash from December through to the end of February. Outside the frenzied high season, when hotel prices rocket and traffic jams are commonplace, many local businesses are shuttered and holiday homes sit empty.

As in Spain and Argentina, the dinner rush starts at 10pm and the clubs won't be bumping until well after 2am. Punta del Este proper, a built-up small peninsula of hotels, low-lying residential and commercial buildings and a small marina, isn't entirely where it's at anymore. The party has shifted east to the surf town of La Barra, with its Bikini Beach, and the formerly sleepy fishing village of Jose Ignacio, where a small number of modernist inns and the odd seafood restaurant now exist. Beyond the sand and socialising, Punta del Este has cultural cachet of which the average merrymaker is blissfully unaware. One need only head inland a few minutes to find a sculpture park, working cattle ranch or winery.

Punta's quieter side is just as compelling, from the natural splendour of the windswept coves, dunes and cliffs along the coast to the green pastureland and sun-dappled, canopied country roads that snake through it  a refreshing respite from that thumping house beat.

The perfect getaway

Punta del Este's South Beach-esque condos and nightclubs are just a part of this resort town, but start your explorations here. Climb the giant concrete fingers emerging from the sand on Playa Brava, sample the asado (charcoal-grilled beef) at a traditional parrilla (grill) and check out the yachts in the marina. Listen out for the summer's happening club, then make a game of getting past the ever-humourless bouncer.

To the east, the striking Museo-Taller Casapueblo, perched on Punta Ballena, is the artist Carlos Paez Vilaro's workshop, gallery and hotel. Now head west for youthful La Barra, where a mix of art galleries, surf emporiums and ice-cream shops attract glitterati, backpackers and families alike. Go inland to discover the delightful Museo del Mar, a treasure trove of whalebones, sea-creature taxidermy and thousands of neat collectibles.

In Jose Ignacio, lunch at beachfront hot-spot La Huella may entail a long wait, but the people-watching and impossibly fresh seafood, like the white-fish brotola, make up for it. The serene Pablo Atchugarry sculpture park is 5km inland from here and includes local sculptor Atchugarry's studio. Venture further west and you'll hit sleepy Garzon, a tiny town in gaucho (cowboy) country now best known as the home of Argentine celebrity chef Francis Mallmann's eponymous restaurant.

There are also places with a feral beauty to them, like the hippie-magnet village of Cabo Polonio, which has no roads into it, just 7km of dunes from Highway 10 (walk or hitch a ride on the open-air dune-rider bus to get there). Other things Cabo Polonio does not have: electricity; running water. And not a beefy bouncer in sight.

Plan it

Fly into Montevideo (the capital of Uruguay) or Buenos Aires (the capital of Argentina). From Montevideo, take a bus or rental car to Punta. From Buenos Aires, take a quick direct flight (less than an hour) or a ferry across to Uruguay. The ferry will either take you to Colonia or Montevideo, then take a rental car or bus to Punta. Book accommodation well in advance in high season (December to February); avoid the crowds by going in the shoulder season (November and March).

Detour

Though overshadowed by grape-growing giants such as Argentina and Chile, Uruguay is South America's fourth-largest producer of wine. The closest winery to Punta del Este is the award-winning Alto de la Ballena, which has eight hectares of vineyards at the foothills of the Sierra de la Ballena. Here, owners Paula and Alvaro Lorenzo grow merlot, tannat, cabernet franc, syrah and viognier. Visit their incredibly scenic estate  by appointment only.

This is an extract from 'Great Escapes', published by Lonely Planet (29.99). To order a copy, go to shop.lonelyplanet.com

Travel essentials

Location: Punta del Este, Uruguay

Best time of year if you want to party: high season (December to February)

Ideal time commitment: Four to seven days

Essential tip: Book in advance during high season, including any flights or the ferry from Buenos Aires

Budget: 

Pack: Sunscreen, bikini, camera, cash

ESSENTIAL EXPERIENCES

* Lingering over a sunset dinner at a beachside restaurant and sampling freshly caught brotola (a local white fish) or grilled octopus

* Visiting the kitschy, colourful Museo del Mar for the weird and wonderful sea creatures preserved in bottles, the shells and the vintage beach paraphernalia

* Splashing about, then sprawling and gaping at the eye-candy on the beaches in La Barra, Punta del Este and Jose Ignacio

* Shaking a tail feather till the sun comes up in a downtown Punta club or at a La Barra beach party

* Exploring Casapueblo, a rambling, gleaming white Gaudi-esque villa, housing a hotel and art gallery, built on the water in Punta Ballena.
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The worlds highest and driest desert  perfect for mountain biking. Or, er, not.

As I carved my way through Devils Canyon in Chile's Atacama  tyres kicking up floury crimson earth, eyes squeezed tight to block out intense, brilliant sunshine  a feeling of malaise suddenly seemed to wash through every oxygen-starved cell in my body.

I started wheezing in the thin air. My heart was racing at twice its resting beat and I felt a pins-and-needles sensation on the back of my neck  an early warning sign of impending altitude sickness.

See, the Atacama Desert may well be one of the planets most spectacular landscapes, but at 2,400 metres above sea level, it doesnt half play havoc with the human constitution. And to cap it off, a fierce, incessant wind was driving deep into the pit of my brain.

Very little can survive in the Atacama Desert. In the most arid areas, no plant or animal life whatsoever is able to thrive. The climate here can swing up or down as much as 50C within a 24-hour period. No wonder my body was struggling to adapt.

And while Ive experienced environments as inhospitable as the centre of the Pacific Ocean  as a novice sailor in the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race  and the dank interiors of the Amazon, the dry isolation of northern Chile felt like an entirely new and uncomfortable extreme.

Mountainbiking under a clear blue sky in Devil's Canyon (Simon Parker)

The Atacamas position between the Andes and Chilean Coastal mountain ranges creates a death zone where, in one region of the desert, an average of just one measly millimetre of rain falls each year.

Its astonishing that human beings feel compelled to visit such an inhospitable place  but for me, its precisely this distance from the comforts of normality that made the Atacama so appealing.

Strewn with volcanic rocks that were spewed out by the tectonically aggressive Andes between 30 and 50 million years ago, the Devils Canyon is easily one of the world's most extreme places to cycle.

The Atacama has a strange, lunar landscape in some areas (Pixabay) (Flickr)

Still, I'm not sure I would try it again. In 2016, I cycled solo and unsupported across the United States in 48 days  often covering 150 miles in a single day. But in the Atacama I felt weak, dry and jaded  buckled by an environment that has little regard for human, plant or animal life.

Still, there's more to do in the Atacama than torture yourself.

At El Tatio geyser field, the Atacama becomes uncharacteristically moist. Rivers of magma below the nearby active Putana volcano heat chambers of water to 85C, which then appears at the surface in the form of bubbling cauldrons and steamy whirlpools.

The El Tatio geyser field creates an uncharacteristically moist landscape (Shutterstock)

And it was here I realised I wasn't the only stupid person trying to take on the Atacama. Mischievous Andean gulls dive-bombed tourists toasting their dawn breakfast on gas burners nearby. Most of them were badly prepared for the sub-zero, early morning temperature, decked out in shorts and flip-flops. As if the Atacama wasnt harsh enough.

For most visitors, El Tatio provides the morning warm-up act, while the nearby Atacama Salt Flat serves as the big-hitting main event.

Bolivias Salar de Uyuni may be bigger and cheaper to visit, but this part of the Atacama receives slightly more rain and wind. This creates a crispy, crazy paving of brackish puddles where regiments of elegant flamingoes tip-toe among their favourite foodstuff, the tiny brine shrimp.

A flamingo nibbles shrimp at the Atacama Salt Flat (Simon Parker)

This 1,200-square-mile expanse of crusty sodium crystals transforms at sunset. And as it changed from fierce salty pearl and sapphire blue to an ethereal sepia, the growling white noise of wind dropped for the first time in days, leaving only breezy silence. It felt just like the centre of the Pacific in the eye of a storm. And as with the centre of the Pacific, there are many easier places to visit, but few that give such a rewarding payoff.

Fortunately, the grand finale of my Atacama adventure would be more sedate. The next morning, I took to the skies above the oasis town of San Pedro-de-Atacama aboard Chiles latest tourist offering. For the first time ever its now possible to swoon over this epic landscape in a hot air balloon  and as the days first rays began to wash over our vast crimson canopy, I was seeing this dusty, isolated frontier from an entirely new and privileged vantage point.

Our writer's air balloon prepares for take-off (Simon Parker)

Riding high above the desert (Simon Parker)

Below me, viaducts had been carved into the land like strands of black thread, syphoning precious water. Small groups of hardy emerald Chanyar trees had popped up among thickets of jade alfalfa. The remnants of a 15th-century Kunza settlement added intricate, stony detail to an otherwise auburn and khaki patchwork. From the open-top wicker basket, 500 metres above the ground and 3,000 metres above sea level, I felt a serene calm.

I think were in for a true Atacama adventure this morning, forecast our pilot, Barry, as he sent another ribbon of fire into the nylon chamber above our heads. Because I have very little idea where well end up. Now were at the will of the wind.

It seems no matter what you do in the Atacama, the adventure finds you.

 Chile - from the desert to the sea

Travel essentials

Getting there

British Airways (ba.com) now flies a direct route from Heathrow to Santiago, with economy fares starting from 749 return. Internal flights between Santiago and the Atacama town of Calama are available with Latam (latam.com). From Calama, San Pedro, where Atacama excursions leave from, is a 90-minute drive away.

Staying there

Tierra Hotels (tierrahotels.com) offers a two-night adventure spa experience at Tierra Atacama from 1,208 per person. The price is based on two adults sharing a double en-suite room with a view towards the Licancabur volcano, private terrace and outdoor shower, on an all-inclusive basis. Includes transfers, all meals, open bar, a full excursion programme, and use of the hotel spa. (Spa treatments are charged separately.)

Hot-air ballooning there

Balloon flights with Balloons Over Atacama (easternsafaris.com) start from US$300 per person.

More information

chile.travel
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The army had never before pushed this far into the interior in such numbers. The Gabonese region of Minkebe is normally uninhabited, other than for the occasional hunter or Baka pygmy tribe. Pressed up against the Congo-Brazzaville and Cameroon borders, its national park is covered by virgin equatorial forest largely untouched by man. Now it had proved fertile ground for the ivory poachers.

Tusks seized in the United States were traced back to the region. The few conservationists willing to undertake the trek into the park came out with the warning that poachers were running amok. The authorities reacted with force. For the first time in Gabons history, the army was dispatched into the forest.

Deep in its heart, a camp of 6,000 people was discovered, ruled by poaching gangs. Weapons were available to any who could afford them, prostitutes were marched up the old logging trails, and local witchdoctors sold curses for handfuls of cash. It was a new Wild West, built on the lure of Africas white gold.

Two hundred Gabonese paratroopers purged the site. By then, however, the worst damage was already done. Some 11,000 elephants had been slaughtered, almost a quarter of the countrys entire elephant population.

When I reached Minkebe you could still see the remains of the poachers shanty town. Amid the clammy heat there were bars and nightclubs with tatty posters advertising cheap drinks; traders boasting the prices they paid for ivory and panned gold; rows of wooden sleeping huts being reclaimed by the jungle.

This was a place with no law and order, said Dr Joseph Okouyi, who is now head of wildlife protection in Minkebe. The big men who controlled the place had their own militia. There were constant fights and people getting macheted to death.

Evgeny Lebedev and President Bongo (John Shand Kydd)

Since the price of ivory soared as the Chinese economy boomed  and the Chinese middle classes showed an almost insatiable desire to spend this new-found wealth on ivory trinkets  organised criminal gangs have been hunting elephants, and thus directly challenging the authority of the states in which the animal is found.

For Gabon, Minkebe was the wake-up call. Under the leadership of its Sorbonne-educated President, Ali Bongo Ondimba, the wildlife service has been expanded from 60 eco-guards to more than 650, and its budget increased from $1m to $18m to pay for new vehicles, uniforms, sniffer dogs and  when required  weapons. Were under attack, the President, 56, told me. We had US Marines come to train our elite rangers to face the enemy in a combat situation. A lot of strength is needed. We were able to save the gorilla. We were able to save the leopard, not least because of ladies refusing to wear leopard-skin coats. We must now save some of the elephants.

Last February, representatives of 46 countries gathered in London to agree a declaration to tackle the illegal wildlife trade, which is worth up to 12bn a year and rated the fourth most valuable to crime after human trafficking, the arms trade and drugs.

The countries present agreed a series of actions, including addressing corruption, adopting legislation for tougher penalties against poachers, and recruiting more law enforcement officers. William Hague, then Foreign Secretary, said he believed this meant we have begun to turn the tide.

Critically endangered species Show all 10 1 /10 Critically endangered species Critically endangered species Yangtze Finless Porpoise There are as few as 1,000 of this highly intelligent dolphin from the Chinese river of Yangtze. Wikmedia Critically endangered species Cross River Gorilla There are around 200-300 left in the wild. Wikmedia Critically endangered species The Amur Leopard There are only around 30 left, exclusively in the Russian Far East. Wikmedia Critically endangered species Black Rhino Improving numbers, but with fewer than 5,000 left in central Africa, it is critically endangered. Wikmedia Critically endangered species Hawskbill Sea Turtle Mostly threatened by wildlife trade; their shells highly valued. Wikmedia Critically endangered species Javan Rhino The most threatened rhino species - there are as few as 35 in Ujung Kulon National Park in Java, Indonesia. Wikmedia Critically endangered species Leatherback Turtle Having lost many of its habitable beaches, and impacted by fishing operations, this seaturtle is considered by WWF to be 'critically endangered'. Wikmedia Critically endangered species South China Tiger It is believed to be 'functionally extinct', with none of the species left in the wild. Wikmedia Critically endangered species Sumatran Elephant There are between 2,400 - 2,800 of this elephant native to Borneo and Sumatra. Wikmedia Critically endangered species Sumatran Orangutan There are an est. 7,300 but the gradual deforestation of their Sumatran habitat may threaten further. Wikmedia

I came to Gabon to see for myself the extent to which those hopes have become reality. Gabon is particularly important to the survival of the elephant as it is one of the few homes remaining for one of its three sub-species.

The Indian elephant and the Africa savannah elephant roam across vast expanses of land. But in Gabon is found the last concentration of the smaller forest elephant, whose straight tusks are of particularly fine ivory.

Once, the forest elephant spread across the Congo river basin. Recent years, however, have seen numbers decline sharply in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Central African Republic as those two countries were beset by civil war, criminal gangs and anarchy. In the DRC fewer than 2,000 are believed to be still alive.

More forest elephants are now found in Gabon than in the rest of Africa combined. It is not an exaggeration to say that it will be in Gabons ability to protect its surviving 40,000 that the future of the animal will be decided.

The head of Gabons Agence Nationale des Parcs Nationaux is a British-born zoologist, Lee White. He was among the first to highlight the scale of the poaching threat, which led to the President putting him in charge of the countrys response. He has since overseen the 11 per cent of the country made up of national parks and led the rapid expansion of the Gabonese wildlife service from being a body that, when he took over, did not have a single vehicle.

Minkebe shanty town (John Shand Kydd)

White, 49, is honest about the challenge. Gangs 30 strong are still crossing from Cameroon equipped with satellite phones, chainsaws for removing tusks, and high-powered rifles that he maintains are often provided by corrupt Cameroon officials.

If we are not vigilant then we know from experience that things can change very quickly, he said. My job is to create a national park service almost from scratch at a time of war because of the situation in Minkebe. The President realises, and the government realises, it is going beyond a wildlife issue and is becoming a national security issue.

The 12 months since the London conference has seen progress. In Kenya, more government rangers were trained to join the fight, harsher penalties brought in and the judiciary trained to better expedite poaching cases. Chad destroyed its ivory stockpiles. Malawi pledged to introduce new wildlife protection laws.

But there is still an elephant killed every 20 minutes in Africa. Selous in Tanzania still has one of the highest rates of poaching on the continent, while in Mozambique the situation is almost as bad. A national park in northern DRC is reporting four contacts with poachers a week. The savagery of the subsequent firefights has resulted in ex-French special forces personnel being brought in to help.

Endangered elephants (Getty Images)

It is why I am proud to announce President Bongo is taking more steps to protect his countrys wildlife. To mark my visit he signed into law a commitment to send additional troops to Minkebe, triple the length of their deployment, and to further strengthen Gabons wildlife commitments.

Perhaps most importantly, he also pledged to work with Space for Giants, the elephant protection charity which was the focus of The Independents 2014 Christmas campaign and of which I am now patron, to help recruit other African leaders to the anti-poaching cause. As he writes in this newspaper on Friday: We must act now, and we must act united. The poaching crisis is an Africa-wide problem. To face it will require an Africa-wide response.

The President has already dispatched wildlife rangers to the Central African Republic to protect that countrys elephants from warlord bands. He has started working closely with Chad, Ethiopia, Tanzania and Botswana on a concerted cross-continent Elephant Protection Initiative.

But these steps, as President Bongo knows, can only be the start. The united effort must involve not only governments but the major multinationals operating in Africa and the leading NGOs established there. This is the coalition that needs to work together if the African elephant is to be saved in the wild. Only then can the commitments of last years London conference ever hope to be fully realised  and the poachers leaving Africas savannahs and forests littered with bloodied carcasses finally be defeated.

Evgeny Lebedev is the owner of The Independent and Evening Standard. Follow him on Twitter: @mrevgenylebedev

To learn more about Space for Giants visit spaceforgiants.org
Veteran political activist Said Abu Taleb, in interview with Ahram Online, reflects on similarities between the 1977 "bread riots" and events that would follow 34 years later

It was with the heartbreaking scene of a poor man scratching the muddy floor in front of a rural grocery, searching for half a piaster, in the early cold morning of 18 January 1977 that alerted then engineering student Said Abdel Fattah Abu Taleb that public anger against harsh economic conditions was about to be articulated.

The man had gone to the grocery and gave the grocer a half piaster to get a loaf of plain bread for breakfast. He was unaware, like many of us, that the government had issued a decree to increase prices and that the price of the loaf had doubled. The grocer was harsh and threw away the half piaster coin. It fell from the counter of his small store onto the muddy ground, recalled Abu Taleb.

It was so painful to see the man on his knees with his bare hands going through the mud in search for the half piaster. I had to be very tactful, claiming that I found the coin, to be able to offer him one without hurting his dignity. He took the coin, thinking it was his lost piece, and declined my offer for a simple sandwich for his breakfast. He had just realised he could no longer afford a full loaf of bread, Abu Taleb said.

This is what gets people desperate, I thought back then. I actually think that this is always what gets people desperate, Abu Taleb argued in interview with Ahram Online on the 40th anniversary of Egypts famous bread riots 18-19 January 1977, in the wake of a decision by President Anwar El-Sadat to increase the prices of basic food commodities.

It was those people who had to face the harshest economic challenges that managed on 28 January 2011 to take what started as protests against dictatorship and grave human rights violations into the revolution that called for Bread, freedom, social justice and human dignity,' he argued.

According to Abu Taleb, those who joined the demonstrations in large numbers, without any pre-organisation, on 28 January 2011 are very much like the poor man who was digging through the mud to find his half piaster on the morning of 18 January 1977, or the workers of the poorer neighbourhoods of the capital who came out from the small alleyways late afternoon the same day to join the hundreds of students who marched from Ain Shams and Cairo University to Tahrir Square.

It was those people who turned a demonstration of a few hundreds in 1977 to a massive protest of tens of thousands, and these people who turned the demonstration of 25 January 2011 into a revolution that lived for 18 days, he stated.

A student at Ain Shams University at the time, Abu Taleb walked from the grocers to the train station where he would commute to Cairo to attend classes. Once on the train, Abu Taleb realised that Sadats economic measures would not be easily absorbed. It was clear from the things that people on the train were saying on that day that whoever gave the go ahead to the increase of prices was simply unaware of the true volume of frustration that people felt, he recalled.

At the heart of the Ain Shams Engineering School, Abu Taleb joined hundreds of students, essentially from the ranks of the Left  Nasserists and Marxists  with a humble showing of Islamists who were still not really visible at the time, for a one hour conference that collectively decided to protest the increase in prices.

It was really almost simultaneous  and with no hesitation, he recalled.

And according to Abu Taleb, it was a move that gained consensus among most people, even those with no particular political affiliation.

Having worried about missing the early part of the demonstration in order to attend a class of a professor who would fail absent students, Abu Taleb was overwhelmed with emotions when he reached the class of design professor Ahmed Hussein who openly told him, There is no attendance for class today. I am here for those who wish to take the class, and I accept that most of you would want to be in the demonstrations, against making life harder for Egyptians.

Hussein is one of the professors that Abu Taleb remembers with joy and pride for their exceptional role in taking the side of the students' right to be politically engaged, while still abiding by the highest academic discipline.

Ali Kamel, a prominent professor who had lost his teaching job at the university in 1968 for openly criticising Gamal Abdel Nasser, was in Egypt in 1975 upon the request of the Sadat regime to convince students to refrain from politics. Instead, he told us you have to study hard to make it as good engineers and to go underground with politics, to avoid security persecution, Abu Taleb remembered.

Ahmed Shaker, dean of the Engineering School at the time, decided in 1978 to spare a student from arrest for violating security regulations issued in the wake of the 18-19 January food riots, banning campus political activism. He took personal responsibility for allowing a demonstration that security had wanted to prevent.

Abu Taleb argued that the 1977 food riots, which really started as demonstrations and were only partially riots because some of the very poor acted impulsively to grab some commodities from some stores, were about societal opposition to hasty and unfair economic measures that undermined the already fragile living conditions of the majority of Egyptians.

In fact, he argued, 1977 did not come out of the blue; it was rather the culmination of repeated signs of social dismay related first to what was perceived as Sadats hesitation to embark on the war to liberate the Egyptian territories occupied by Israel in 1967.

Only one year ahead of the 18-19 January protests there was, also in January, a considerable march of university students in support of public transport workers who had gone on strike to protest unfair pay against the backdrop of costly living expenses, he recalled.

For Abu Taleb himself, the 1977 protests were part of a longer path of commitment to social justice that he had embraced as a teenager, when he started reading the literature of Vladimir Lenin, only to be told by an open minded teacher of Al-Azhar that the call of Lenin for the welfare of all humans and social justice is in essence similar to the call of Prophet Mohammed for justice and fairness.

Growing up in a small village of the Nile Delta, Abu Taleb had learned firsthand the accounts of economic hardships and had gradually embraced the many shades of socialism and Marxism in pursuit of social justice. Living not far from the mega industrial zone of Abu Zaabal and being the brother in law of Mohamed Shaalan, a prominent blue collar leader, Abu Taleb had dedicated time and effort to help workers in the factories of Abu Zaabal acquire legitimate economic and legal rights.

Along the path of the search for social justice he joined an underground Marixist movement, The Hammer," where he rubbed shoulders with leading Leftists of the time, including Mona Mina, his later wife and mother of his daughter, Salma Said, herself a prominent face of the 25 January Revolution.

But yes, I agree, the call that had been echoed in the 1970s was heeded in 2011 and is still being recalled; and yes, Tahrir Square, especially the centre point, the poems of Amal Donkkol, the songs of Sheikh Imam and Ahmed Fouad Negm, are still being echoed from the 1970s, through 2011 and until now, he said.

Indeed, Abu Taleb said, on the evening of 18 January 1977, like the evening of 28 January 2011, many of the demonstrators decided not to leave Tahrir Square prior to acknowledgement of their demands.

On 19 January 1977, Sadat bowed, at least temporarily to the demands, Abu Taleb said. He added, however, that the battle did not stop there, for either side.

The student movement continued its resistance against Sadats economic and political choices, including those related to unilateral peace talks and later the peace treaty with Israel. Meanwhile, Sadat did not stop in his pursuit of the elimination of the Left, something that he had already embarked on in the wake of the 1973 War. That war allowed Sadat to think that having reversed, at least partially, the humiliating military defeat of Nasser, he was in a position to drop the entire socialist call.

Inevitably, Abu Taleb argued, while both sides had considerable losses, Sadat managed to put the Leftist movement in a corner, first by pursuing a peace deal with Israel that he said would bring about unprecedented economic prosperity, and second by granting the Islamists a free ride to take over university campuses, and society as a whole, by the sway of religious discourse.

Again, Abu Taleb makes a comparison between January 1977 and January 2011. In both cases, demonstrators made a considerable advance but then fell in the trap of a counter-offensive, essentially because in both cases those who were at the forefront of the demonstrations had no coherent political scheme about taking power.

However, Abu Taleb is convinced that irrespective of the dates and the details, the core cause of the call for social justice never died." It was there in all the demonstrations and strikes that Sadat and his successor Hosni Mubarak tried to quell through successive decades, although Mubarak was, I think, alert to always pave the way for his economic measures to avoid any potential angry reaction that might come as a result of shocking the public.

Still, he remarked, this never stopped the workers from showing their anger in strikes, including the one of 1989 by steel workers, when Abu Taleb himself was arrested and jailed, though not for the first time.

Throughout the decades and generations, Abu Taleb said, the act of protest was related to the call for social justice, although in some cases, as in 1977, it was instigated by direct unfair economic measures and in other cases, as in 2011, it was prompted by political frustration first and then by socio-economic unfairness.

There is one exception to this pattern, Abu Taleb agrees: 30 June 2013, which was essentially about getting the Muslim Brotherhood out of power following the democratic election of their candidate Mohamed Morsi as the first post-Mubarak civilian president.

Abu Taleb argues that 30 June was a moment of fear of excessive Islamisation of society.

Abu Taleb is convinced that it was a true identity scare and not the old bad blood between Leftists and Islamists over the role the latter played in the wake of the 1977 protests.

According to Abu Taleb, today, neither Leftists nor Islamists, nor any other political bloc, is in one mind about the developments that followed 30 June 2013.

But the one thing we seem to agree on today is that the call for social justice is again gaining the attention of the masses, and obviously it is the will of the masses that decides the choices of political groupings and political action. It did in before January 1977 and after January 2011, he said. And it will always do, he concluded.

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So Donald Trump is going to f**k them all. No excuses for such filthy words today. Im only quoting the man whose Pentagon offices he just used to disgrace himself  and America. For it was Secretary of Defence James Mad Dog Mattis who told Iraqis in 2003 that he came in peace  he even urged his Marines to be compassionate  but said of those who might dare to resist Americas illegal invasion of their country: "If you f**k with me, Ill kill you all.

Theres no getting round it. Call it Nazi, Fascist, racist, vicious, illiberal, immoral, cruel. More dangerously, what Trump has done is a wicked precedent. If you can stop them coming, you can chuck them out. If you can demand "extreme vetting" of Muslims from seven countries, you can also demand a "values test" for those Muslims who have already made it to the USA. Those on visas. Those with residency only. Those  if they are American citizens  with dual citizenship. Or full US citizens of Muslim origin. Or just Americans who are Muslims. Or Hispanics. Or Jews? Refugees one day. Citizens the next. Then refugees again.

No, of course, Trump would never visit such obscene tests on Jewish immigrants  for they would be obscene, would they not? -- and nor will he stop Christians from Muslim countries. America has always condemned sectarian states, but now Trump declares that he approves of sectarianism. Minorities will be welcome  the Alawites of Syria, to whom Bashar al-Assad belongs, will presumably not count, and I guess we can expect all US embassies to have three queues for visa applicants. One for Muslims, one for Christians, and a third marked Other. Thats where most of us will be standing in line. And by doing so, we will automatically give approval to this iniquitous system  and to Trump.

 Video shows poor standard of living for refugees in France

Theres no point in wasting time over the obvious: that America has bombed, directly or indirectly, five of the seven nations on Trumps banned list. Sudan just escapes, but the US blew a packed Iranian passenger airliner out of the sky in 1988 and has raised no objections to Israels bombing of Iranian personnel in Syria. So that makes six. Theres nothing to be gained by reiterating that the four countries whose citizens participated in the international crimes against humanity of 9/11  Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the Emirates and Lebanon  do not feature on the list. For the Saudis must be loved, cosseted, fawned over, approved, even when they chop off heads and when their citizens funnel cash to the murderers of Isis. Egypt is ruled by Trumps fantastic guy anti-terrorist president al-Sisi. The glisteningly wealthy Emirates wont be touched. Nor will Lebanon, although its tens of thousands of dual-national Syrians may have a tough time in the future.

But no, this vile piece of legislation is not aimed at nations. Its targeting refugees, the poor, the huddled masses yearning to breathe free. The Muslim ones, that is, not the Christians. How can they ever withstand a "values test"? And what are Americas "values" anyway? Its OK to attack sovereign states. Its OK to use pilotless planes to assault men and women in other countries. Its OK if your allies steal land from others for their own people, if you support Arab dictatorships that emasculate and execute and rape their prisoners, as long as they are "allies" of the USA. Its OK to fast-track Saudi visas  as the Brits have been doing for years  even if they are members of the most inspirational Wahhabi cult in the world: membership includes the Taliban, al-Qaeda, Isis, you name it.

Theres even no value in touting our own participation in this charade. Having just patted the killer governments of the Gulf on the head  and heading off to do the same to Turkeys autocrat-in-chief  our poodlet prime minister, fresh out of Washington, hasnt uttered a word about Trumps wickedness. Wasnt it Britain  and America, for heavens sake  that was weeping copious tears, buckets of the stuff, for the 250,000 (or 90,000) Muslim refugees of eastern Aleppo a couple of months ago? And now, so much do we care for them, that they are being well and truly f****d.

Refugees welcome here: Protesters demand UK resettle more migrants in response to refugee crisis Show all 7 1 /7 Refugees welcome here: Protesters demand UK resettle more migrants in response to refugee crisis Refugees welcome here: Protesters demand UK resettle more migrants in response to refugee crisis The Solidarity With Refugees group said Saturdays protest aimed to show our Government and the world that Britain is ready to welcome more refugees. Rex Features Refugees welcome here: Protesters demand UK resettle more migrants in response to refugee crisis People march through central London as they take part in a protest rally organised by Solidarity with Refugees in a bid to urge the Government to take more action on the migrant crisis Press Association Refugees welcome here: Protesters demand UK resettle more migrants in response to refugee crisis The protest comes days before world leaders meet to discuss crisis at UN General Assembly Press Association Refugees welcome here: Protesters demand UK resettle more migrants in response to refugee crisis Demonstrators made their way from Park Lane to Parliament Square in London on Saturday afternoon Press Association Refugees welcome here: Protesters demand UK resettle more migrants in response to refugee crisis Marchers chanted refugees are welcome here and waved banners reading no-one is illegal and lets help people Press Association Refugees welcome here: Protesters demand UK resettle more migrants in response to refugee crisis The march was supported by charities and groups including the Red Cross, Asylum Aid, Save the Children, Hope Not Hate, Oxfam and the UN Refugee Agency Rex Features Refugees welcome here: Protesters demand UK resettle more migrants in response to refugee crisis In the wake of Alans death, David Cameron pledged to resettle 20,000 Syrian refugees in the UK over the coming five years but there have been additional calls to re-home those who have already reached Europe, as well as asylum seekers coming from other conflict zones such as Iraq and Afghanistan Rex Features

They were almost all Muslims in eastern Aleppo, by the way. The Christians of Syria have, through no fault of their own, sought protection from Bashar. And what message did the Christian priests of northern Syria give when I interviewed them? They did not want their people to leave for the West, they said. Hard though it was, Christians should stay in the lands of their faith, the Middle East. In the West, they would merely be lost in a secular world. Trump is going to make sure they are.

Thus America is henceforth going to "protect" itself from "radical Islamic extremists"  "Islamic" note, not "Islamist"  and well all be able to follow him. Is non-EU Britain not going to be able to march along the same awful path? If America is our economic lifeline, will it not also be our moral lifeline for the political buffoons of the United Kingdom? Sure, its a long time since World War Two. But then, what did the US do before  or after  Hitlers evil? It prevented Jewish refugees from coming to America. Yes, even Anne Frank. And now theyre at it again.
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Opposites attract, so the Prime Minister thinks (the evidence of that, as many divorced couples can attest, is mixed). Whether Donald Trump and Theresa May do develop the sort of fantastic relationship the President is promising very much remains to be seen.

During their public session the signs were hard to read. Ms May is as habitually nervous in public as Mr Trump is confident, and there were some awkward moments, although it was mostly a convivial sort of day. During the press conference President Trump managed to speak on behalf of the Prime Minister when he was asked about his Mexican standoff with President Enrique Pena Nieto. It was a casual act of chauvinism that said much about Mr Trump, but was graciously skated over by Ms May.

So far as a deal is concerned, Mr Trump wangled a public invitation for a state visit to the UK later this year, complete with the usual pomp, ceremony and photo opportunities with the Queen. In return Mr Trump allowed Ms May to tell the world that he is 100 per cent behind Nato, a little condescending on her part that time, but a relief to nervous Europeans.

Mr Trump himself declared that although he believed torture works, he would defer to his new Defence Secretary. In turn he was effusive about Brexit  a wonderful thing  and they succeeded in limiting their disagreements about Russia and Iran. Mr Trumps openness about how his relationship with President Putin might evolve and his surprisingly warm wish for a strong relationship with China was also encouraging.

Perhaps, then, there is something in the spin, and that this odd couple will indeed lead the world once again, but will engage in open and frank discussion with one another as only close friends can. Mr Trump was certainly more subdued and guarded in his remarks than usual. He stuck to his script, apart from a sideswipe at the BBCs Laura Kuenssberg (clearly not his type).

But a clear, generous and open commitment by the American President to a trade deal with Britain was conspicuous by its absence. The warm words were certainly there, and no end of goodwill, but Mr Trump, shrewd dealmaker as he claims to be, has no hostages to fortune about the UK-US free trade deal. Indeed, Mr Trump made it apparent that he will, as ever, be representing the American people in a tougher fashion than his predecessors.

On defence, security and intelligence there was an easy agreement, and these are early days in the renewal of the so-called special relationship. The reality behind this Anglo-American diplomacy keeps poking through, however: America will be fine with the UK so long as our vital interests continue to coincide. We can agree to differ on the smaller stuff, but there should never be any doubt that, from trade to the nuclear deterrent, Britain needs America more than America needs Britain.

That shared knowledge is the most important thing that Ms May and Mr Trump have in common.
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Any Labour leader would have problems managing the partys response to the EU withdrawal Bill, Diane Abbott, the shadow Home Secretary, said today. She is absolutely right. The party has a structural fault. It supported staying in the EU, but when the people voted in the referendum to leave, it divided between those who accepted the result and those who want to fight it.

Hence the resignations from Labours front bench as the vote on the Bill approaches. Jo Stevens, the MP for Cardiff Central, quit the shadow Cabinet today; Tulip Siddiq, the MP for Hampstead, resigned as a shadow junior minister yesterday. Their departures have little to do with Corbyns leadership and a lot to do with the new dividing line of British politics.

Since the 1950s, Labour and the Conservatives have taken it in turn to be divided over Europe. First it was Labour, then, since the middle of Margaret Thatchers time, it was the Tories who were torn. Suddenly, on 24 June last year, the Tories snapped together, united (apart from Kenneth Clarke) behind Brexit.

At the same time, Labour split. Jeremy Corbyn was on TV at 7.30am saying: We must respect that result and Article 50 has to be invoked now. Many in his party were horrified. They reacted viscerally rather than rationally, and launched a doomed challenge to his leadership behind a candidate, Owen Smith, who advocated a second referendum.

 Corbyn admits to three line whip ahead of Article 50 vote

Curiously, that leadership election concealed rather than exposed Labours division, because it was fought mostly on the proposition that Corbyn lacks any of the qualities of leadership required by a functioning opposition. This may be true but it was irrelevant while large numbers of Corbyn supporters felt he had not been given a fair chance to fail.

But the division is deep and irreconcilable. It is not between Corbynites and non-Corbynites. After all, among Labour MPs there are hardly any Corbynites. Yet Corbyn finds himself on the side of the majority of the parliamentary party on the question of Brexit.

That is because the breach has divided all factions in the party: Blairites, Corbynites and the group in the middle whom the Corbynites call Blairites but whom the Blairites blame for paving the way for Corbyn: the Brownites, Ed Miliband supporters and assorted fellow-travellers.

Thus Siddiq, who resigned from the Labour front bench yesterday, is one of the MPs who nominated Corbyn. As is Clive Lewis, the MP for Norwich South who argued in shadow Cabinet against imposing a three-line whip but who didnt resign yesterday.

On the other hand Jo Stevens, who resigned from the shadow Cabinet this afternoon, is not a Corbynite. She supported Andy Burnham and Owen Smith in the last two leadership contests.

I dont know if she is a Blairite as such, but the Blairites-as-such are divided too. Tony Blair himself is the arch proponent of the second referendum position  although he phrases it carefully, as a matter of keeping options open. Many of the MPs who intend to vote against triggering Article 50 are identifiable Blairites, such as Ben Bradshaw, the MP for Exeter.

Many other Blairites, however, accept the referendum as an instruction to get on with it. In most cases this follows their long-standing belief that the free movement of people in the EU should be curtailed. Thus Liz Kendall, Emma Reynolds and Chuka Umunna accept that Britain is leaving the EU and want to move the debate on to the terms of Brexit and the kind of country Britain will be outside the EU.

The Labour split is not very equal. When MPs voted on a symbolic motion about Article 50 last month, only 23 voted against triggering it by Theresa Mays deadline of the end of March. Seven times as many, 150, voted in favour  one of them, incidentally, was Jo Stevens. That means 56 didnt vote, but even if most of them vote against the Bill next week, plus a few switchers such as Stevens, there would be a two-to-one majority among Labour MPs for getting on with it.

No doubt Corbyn could have managed the politics better. As Philip Collins, an actual Blairite, argues in The Times today, an effective leader would change the subject as often as possible. Talk about the NHS, education and productivity.

But no leader could avoid the votes on the Bill to trigger Article 50. Suppose in an alternative history Labour had the cleverest Blairite leader  who wouldnt allow herself to be identified as a Blairite, obviously  she would, I submit, adopt exactly the same position as Corbyn. She would ask her MPs to abstain on the timetable motion, so that Labour could not be portrayed as obstructing Brexit, and to vote for the Bill itself, with whatever amendments she could get, so that Labour could present itself as accepting the result of the referendum.
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Refugees often bring with them creative energies, innovations and ideas, and host communities are enriched by their plurality of political, social and cultural mosaic and civic life. It is imperative for governments to come to grips with the colossal magnitude of the refugee crisis and share responsibility.

No country  irrespective of its wealth  can accommodate millions of people in need of shelter, water, security, employment, education, medicine and healthcare. But it is unfair for the US (one of the wealthiest countries on earth) to ban refugees from specific Muslim countries or give special preferences for Christian minorities. We cannot shirk our responsibilities to offer succour to the wretched and vulnerable and to address the root causes that force refugees to flee their homes.

Dr Munjed Farid Al Qutob

London NW2

Why are we still trying to force a nonexistent special relationship?

Trumps election has been a profound and alarming shock to the world, so why does the UK wish to develop a special relationship with such a man? Trump will use any trade deal with the UK to his benefit and to our detriment.

As soon as we have lost the protection of the European Customs Union, Trump and his henchmen will take Mrs May and Boris Johnson to the cleaners. For the UK to embrace this man is a disgrace  we should all be ashamed of our nation.

For him to be invited on a state visit to be entertained by our Queen must make us all wonder what we have come to. Mrs Mays return from Washington can be likened to Chamberlains return from Munich, only this time we are putting our trust in an evil man who will do even longer-lasting damage than the man Chamberlain shook hands with.

Martin Deighton

Suffolk

The USs misogynistic stance on abortion cannot be likened to Britains

I fear that Siobhan Fenton is absolutely right about the misogyny that remains deeply endemic in society on both sides of the Atlantic. However there is, I believe, a fundamental and qualitative difference between our two cultures on the issue of abortion.

So far as I am aware there are no siren voices in mainland Britain seriously arguing for abortion to be outlawed. As I understand it the recent challenges by Maria Miller and Jeremy Hunt were about revising the time limit for abortion in the context of foetus viability, not the acceptance of the principle of abortion.

As science progresses there will always be legitimate debate about the rights, if any, of the unborn child, their primacy over the mother's, and balancing the two. However this should not be confused with our long-accepted principle that abortion is not a crime per se.

Peter Webb

East Sussex

Why is no one angry about Trump weighing in on Brexit?

Does anyone else remember the howls of protests from the Leave campaigners when Obama made comments on the dangers of leaving the EU?

There is silence from David Davies, Liam Fox and Ian Duncan Smith after Trump congratulates Britain for leaving, which smacks of double standards.

Rod Hartley

Preston

Brexit could be devastating to expats with families

Theresa May without realising it may find herself set on a course of action that could destroy the lives of tens of thousands of British expats and families. Her current mantra is no deal is better than a bad deal, but the question is, better for whom? Certainly not British expats in Europe with EU National families, or EU expats in Britain with British families.

My fear is that as a result of Mays recent talks with Trump and the distant possibility of a deal on trade, she could be emboldened to actually believe that hard Brexit is an acceptable option and leave the EU without having reached an agreement.

Such an approach could separate families living abroad or effectively stop British citizens from coming back to the UK if they wished to stay with their families. If it all goes wrong May could find herself the first British Prime Minister in history who sacrificed thousands of her own people and their families on the altar of the anti-immigration sentiment that is Brexit.

Anonymous expat

Address supplied

Since when did 37.4 per cent of the electorate become the overwhelming will of the people?

I feel strongly that this phrase, used as a statement of fact, should be much more widely challenged by the media and MPs.

Susan Hawkes

Lymington

Thank you for publishing the Brexit bill in full  one of the shortest and most eloquently phrased suicide notes in history.

Terence A Carr

Prestatyn

The silver lining of the Mexican wall

After hearing and reading all the information concerning the infamous Mexican wall, I think the Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto is being a little too quick off the mark and a bit naive. He should agree with the building of the wall and the one major benefit that comes with it: it would help keep the Trumpster out of Mexico. A price well worth paying. Every cloud, as they say...

David Higgins

Somerset
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Why is Theresa May talking to President Erdogan, the authoritarian leader of Turkey? Some on the liberal left think she shouldnt be cosying up to a leader who has cracked down on human rights and freedom of speech. Some on the right wonder what she is doing making nice with the great scare story they used during the EU referendum campaign  wasnt the point of Brexit to put up barriers against countries like this?

Neither objection makes much sense. You dont have to sign up for all the diplomatic rhetoric of indispensable partner and close ally to know that Turkey is important to Britain whether we are in the EU or not.

The liberal lefts case against the Prime Ministers visit didnt last long when Sarah Olney, the new Liberal Democrat MP, went on LBC radio on Saturday. She opposed the visit because it betrays our liberal values, but when Iain Dale reminded her that Nick Clegg as Deputy Prime Minister had led a trade mission to Turkey five years ago, she was reduced to saying that Britain was in a stronger position then to demand respect for human rights.

 Turkey releases video of air strikes on more than 100 Isis targets in Syria after Istanbul nightclub attack

The isolationist case against the visit is equally weak. Even if you voted Leave because you thought Turkey was about to join the EU  which it isnt  you might see that the country is on the front line of the Syrian refugee crisis. To put it crudely, if your priority is to reduce immigration, then it would make sense to maintain good relations with a country that has taken 2.7 million Syrian refugees.

Both sides are confused, too, about trade. Liberal Remainers think they have scored a debating point when they say that Turkey has a customs union with the EU, and so it cannot sign a separate trade deal with Britain. But, as Cleggs trip in 2012 suggested, it was worth Britain talking to Turkey about trade even when Britain was a member of the EU customs union.

These are deep technical waters. It is often said that the British civil and diplomatic services lack the experienced trade negotiators needed to make a success of Brexit after 44 years in which EU officials negotiated such things on our behalf. A similar charge can also be made against British journalists: few of us understand the complexities of trade agreements. What I have picked up from experts is that Turkey has a customs union with the EU, but it is not a member of the EU customs union. The Turkish deal applies to many goods but not to agriculture or to services, and it allows the Turkish government to negotiate its own trade deals as long as its external tariffs align with the EUs.

So, when Britain leaves the EU, it will be able to do limited trade deals with Turkey, in addition to the drumming up of investment and the informal trade links Clegg thought it worth trying to promote.

Of course, embarrassing as Cleggs visit was to Lib Dem sanctimony about Mays trip, it is not a full answer to how Britain should balance disapproval of the Erdogan governments policy against the value of good relations with an important regional power. But my view is that, generally, engagement is better than isolation and sanctions. The threshold for sanctions has to be high  such as Russias responsibility for carnage in Syria.

In pictures: Turkey coup attempt Show all 17 1 /17 In pictures: Turkey coup attempt In pictures: Turkey coup attempt Turkish President Erdogan attends the funeral service for victims of the thwarted coup in Istanbul at Fatih mosque on July 17, 2016 in Istanbul, Turkey Burak Kara/Getty Images In pictures: Turkey coup attempt Soldiers involved in the coup attempt surrender on Bosphorus bridge with their hands raised in Istanbul on 16 July, 2016 Gokhan Tan/Getty In pictures: Turkey coup attempt A civilian beats a soldier after troops involved in the coup surrendered on the Bosphorus Bridge in Istanbul, Turkey, 16 July, 2016 REUTERS/Murad Sezer In pictures: Turkey coup attempt Surrendered Turkish soldiers who were involved in the coup are beaten by a civilian Reuters In pictures: Turkey coup attempt Soliders involved in the coup attempt surrender on Bosphorus bridge Getty In pictures: Turkey coup attempt Supporters of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan wave flags as they capture a Turkish Army vehicle Getty In pictures: Turkey coup attempt People pose near a tank after troops involved in the coup surrendered on the Bosphorus Bridge in Istanbul, Turkey, 16 July, 2016 Reuters In pictures: Turkey coup attempt Turkish soldiers block Istanbul's Bosphorus Brigde Getty In pictures: Turkey coup attempt A Turkish military stands guard near the Taksim Square in Istanbul Reuters In pictures: Turkey coup attempt Pierre Crom/Twitter In pictures: Turkey coup attempt Turkish soldiers secure the area as supporters of Recep Tayyip Erdogan protest in Istanbul's Taksim square AP In pictures: Turkey coup attempt Murad Sezer/Reuters In pictures: Turkey coup attempt Turkish soldiers detain police officers during a security shutdown of the Bosphorus Bridge Reuters In pictures: Turkey coup attempt Turkish Army armoured personnel carriers in the main streets of Istanbul Getty In pictures: Turkey coup attempt Chaos reigned in Istanbul as tanks drove through the streets EPA/TOLGA BOZOGLU In pictures: Turkey coup attempt Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan speaks to media in the resort town of Marmaris Reuters In pictures: Turkey coup attempt Supporters of President Erdogan celebrate in Ankara following the suppression of the attempted coup Reuters

There is much to be alarmed about in recent Turkish history. The coup six months ago remains mysterious. Erdogan blamed it on the cultish followers of Fethullah Gulen, the Islamic preacher exiled in, of all places, Donald Trumps America. This looks awfully like the Big Brother tactic of waging permanent war against an external enemy to justify authoritarian rule. But it is also worrying because the idea that the Gulenist threat is being orchestrated by the West strengthens the extremist strain in a Muslim country hitherto largely untouched by anti-western ideology.

So it makes sense to engage with the regime, a player not just in Syria but in Iraq, and a member of Nato.

The more interesting question is why Theresa May is talking to Erdogan but not to Putin. Her scepticism about China and Russia has been a theme of her first six months as Prime Minister. There was a notable section of her speech to Republican senators and members of Congress on Thursday. She said: Countries with little tradition of democracy, liberty and human rights  notably China and Russia  have grown more assertive in world affairs. And she pointedly contrasted China with democratic allies like India, although she has visited both countries.

When the Prime Minister returns from her travels, perhaps she could explain how she hopes to persuade countries such as China, Russia and Saudi Arabia to develop a tradition of democracy, liberty and human rights.
'I'm not wearing any lipstick - ah it'll be fine. No one will even notice."

This thought crossed Karen Elliffe's mind as she returned to the ballroom for the crowning of the 52nd annual WR Shaw Queen of the Land, in Tullamore last November.

Feeling sluggish after a banquet meal with fellow contestants, the 26-year-old beef farmer, representing Ballinagore Macra in Co Westmeath, was looking forward to popping on her flat shoes and getting on the dance-floor.

As all the contestants arrived on stage for the winning announcement, Karen, who had joined Macra just three months earlier, was ushered to stand near the front.

Expand Close Karen Elliffe from Westmeath was crowned the W.R. Shaw Queen of the Land for 2016. Photo: Lorraine Teevan / Facebook

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Whatsapp Karen Elliffe from Westmeath was crowned the W.R. Shaw Queen of the Land for 2016. Photo: Lorraine Teevan

After failing to know the name of the President of the Irish Farmers Association during her interview process, Karen presumed she was completely out of the race.

"I said, 'I'll be fine here beside the pillar, there's no panic'. Next thing they called out Westmeath. I was holding flowers, wearing the tiara and cradling the cup. I was in total shock," she says.

Since then, the vibrant young farmer says life has been a "whirlwind".

Karen, an only child, grew up on her family's vast 300 acre beef, and former sheep, farm in Streamstown - a community steeped in hunt tradition near Mullingar. As a child, she vividly remembers milking cows with her Granny, May. "She was pretty involved with the farm," Karen says.

"Dad had sheep as well so I would be out for the lambing. If there was any weak one I'd bring them in beside the range in the kitchen and feed them with bottles.

"I've always loved outdoor work and working with animals, I wouldn't have the same patience for people as I do with animals. I'd take a kick or a bite much quicker," she says.

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In 2013, after finishing her equine science degree at the University of Limerick, a qualification which counted towards her Green Cert after studying various nutrition and grass management models, Karen wanted to return home.

"I love horses but it's not something I wanted to do long-term, it has always been cattle. We have dry stock, mostly Continental with a few Aberdeen Angus and a few Charolais cross-bred stores," she says.

Although she enjoys farming alongside her father, Larry, Karen's ambition has always been to set up her own enterprise from scratch.

"I had the Green Cert so I applied for a herd number. I started from scratch and got a loan out myself," she says. "I still don't have enough to keep busy solely on my own, I've 12 cattle at the moment, so I'd be working with my Dad too.

"I like the Angus, their temperament is relatively good and I'm looking into investing in a Simmental heifer and getting a small suckler herd going," she says.

However, Karen stresses that setting up her own herd has been a challenge. "It is hard work. If I wasn't from a farm it would be even harder. You have to input a lot of money and it's a long time before you see that money coming back by the time you pay for feed and vets bills and TB testing," she says.

Although Karen is fulfilled by her work, she says farming can be socially compromising for young people in rural Ireland.

"It's like chalk and cheese with me and the rest of the girls. I don't know if they could really understand or get a grasp on my passion for farming but they knew it was my calling.

"I wasn't really seeing anyone my own age from one week to the next. I was going to the gym a few nights a week but you don't really go there to chat to people, it's not very sociable," she says.

Although Karen knew there was an active Macra club nearby in Ballinagore, she struggled to find the motivation to join.

"Macra still has this stigma that it is just for farmers - which is a complete misunderstanding so that holds some young people back," she says.

Once she found out more about the organisation and the level of activity, Karen felt compelled to join.

"I needed to do something for my own head. It was out of loneliness nearly. So myself and my cousin said we'd go and the rest is history. It opened so many doors and I'll be forever grateful," she says.

After attending the Queen of the Land Festival in 2015, Karen, who is a huge fan of designer shoes, boots, dresses and even wellies, was keen to give it a go.

"The standard is so high, the girls are incredible and it's very competitive, I still can't believe I won," says Karen whose first job as Queen was opening a snail farmers conference the morning after claiming the crown.

"I've been to the Department of Agriculture, I've met EU Agriculture Commissioner Phil Hogan and Joe Healy - a name I will never forget. I've been invited to meet the ICSA and I'll be at the Macra CAP 2020 talks," says Karen, who is balancing her new commitments with farming at home.

She is happy to be a role model for young girls in farming.

"I'm not unique, there are loads like me.

"We all need roles models but it can't be done in a condescending way, I'd love for girls and women to see [farming] as a viable option - just as viable as it is for lads," she says.

Foddering, vaccinating, squeezing calves - a week in the life of a Macra Queen

Monday

8am Out on the farm for morning feeding of all weanlings (Av. weights 250kg) that are housed during the winter. Weanling to beef ration. Weather dependent weanlings put out to grass during the day. Horse is fed and turned out to paddock with ad-lib forage for the day also weather dependent.

10am Foddering (with our own round bales of summer '16 hay in addition to weanling to beef ration) weanlings that are wintered out.

2pm We have a few out-farms stocked with store cattle, which are herded on alternating days.

5pm Calves, weanlings and horse are returned to housing and stable for evening feeding of ration and ad-lib forage for housed weanlings.

Tuesday

8am Morning feeding on the farm.

11am Interview with the Farming Independent.

2pm Herding of out farms and castration (Burdizzo Squeezing) group of 15 bull calves.

5pm Calves, weanlings and horse are returned to housing and stable for evening feeding of ration and ad-lib forage for housed weanlings.

7pm Leave (late!) for South East Women in Farming discussion meeting in the Woodford Dolmen Hotel Carlow.

Wednesday

8am Feeding on the farm.

10am Vaccinating group of 20 weanlings with TriboVax10 for Black Leg.

5pm Calves, weanlings and horse are returned to housing and stable for evening feeding of ration and ad-lib forage for housed weanlings.

6pm Leave for CAP2020 Consultation meeting in Ardboyne Hotel Navan.

Thursday

8am Feeding on the farm.

10 am Foddering weanlings that are out wintered with a round bale of hay.

2pm Cleaning and bedding of calf sheds while they are out on grass for the day.

5pm Calves, weanlings and horse are returned to housing and stable for evening feeding of ration and ad-lib forage for housed weanlings.

Friday

8am Morning feeding on the farm.

10am Herding all out farms.

1pm Nail Appointment in Olivia's Beauty Boutique Tullamore for upcoming events. (Just because I farm, doesn't mean I neglect my beauty needs!)

5pm Calves, weanlings and horse are returned to housing and stable for evening feeding of ration and ad-lib forage for housed weanlings.

9pm Ballinagore Macra Annual Fundraising Table Quiz in Mahon's Ballinagore and awarding of the county representatives for the 2017 Mr Personality, Blue Jeans Queen and Queen of the Land titles. With a judging panel of Macra National Council representatives.
Consultants PwC has been the biggest single beneficiary of fees from the State in connection with the Apple state-aid investigation.

PwC Belgium has been paid almost 600,000 over the last two years as the Government fights the probe, which found last August that Apple owes back taxes to Ireland of as much as 13bn.

It is understood that the companys Brussels-based Global Head of Transfer Pricing, Isabel Verlinden, is involved with the case.

The consultancy giant netted a 327,000 payment in 2015 and 268,343 the following year. By the end of last year, 1.85m had been spent by the State on the case since 2014, with the costs shared between the Department of Finance, the Revenue Commissioners, the Attorney Generals Office and the Chief State Solicitors Office.

Ireland has challenged the EU ruling that Apple owes Ireland 13bn in back taxes and has appealed it to the European courts.

European Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager is due to address the Oireachtas Finance Committee on Apple next week, as is Finance Minister Michael Noonan and the chair of the Revenue Commissioners.

Over the past three years, approximately 1.85m has been paid in total, including VAT, The minister, Mr Noonan said, in response to a parliamentary question from Sinn Feins Pearse Doherty.

This includes all legal costs, consultancy fees and other associated costs.

The bulk of the payments have been made to barristers, with UK barrister Philip Baker QC netting the most. He has been paid 267,470.

He earned about 49,000 in 2014, almost 152,000 in 2015 and 66,525 last year.

The Government has accused the European Commission of interfering with Irelands tax sovereignty and has exceeded its powers in ordering the technology giant to pay 13bn in taxes to the Exchequer.

The Government said that the commission has attempted to re-write the Irish corporation tax rules in making its decision.

Mr Noonan has already insisted that the California tech giant was not given any sweetheart tax deals when it opened its base in Cork in 1980.

Apple has also denied any such arrangements are in place at present, or that they existed in the past.

Mr Cook declined an invitation to appear before the Oireachtas Finance Committee.

That decision was met with disappointment and anger among TDs.

Apple executive Claire Twaites wrote to the Finance Committee to tell them Mr Cook would be declining the invitation.

She said the European decision is a complex and challenging issue, and one on which we are receiving ongoing legal counsel.

Ms Vestager is due to appear before the committee on Tuesday, while Mr Noonan will appear on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Apple is reportedly set to move its international iTunes business to Cork from Luxembourg on February 5, according to the AppleInsider website. The international iTunes office has been located in Luxembourg since 2004. Apple received planning permission last August for an expansion at its European HQ in Cork that was to deliver 1,000 jobs.

An Bord Pleanala gave the expansion plan the go ahead after dismissing an appeal against the development by local residents.
There are around 23,000 people who use the Fair Deal scheme (Stock picture)

The cost of nursing home care is often the biggest financial hit a family can face. Some 30,000 older people are in some form of long-term care.

Three-out-of-four nursing homes are in the private sector. The average cost is 1,000 a week, according to Tadhg Daly of Nursing Homes Ireland. But fees can be as high as 1,800 a week.

That is probably why so many opt for the State's Nursing Home Support Scheme, better known as Fair Deal. There are around 23,000 people who use the Fair Deal scheme.

It is a bit like a pooled insurance scheme. The State pays for all the care, and the nursing home resident contributes what they can, according to their income and assets. Here is a run-down of some of the detail of the scheme.

Q: You can't rent out houses if the owner is in the Fair Deal scheme?

A: That is not the case. The owner of a house is legally entitled to rent it out if he/she is in a nursing home under the Fair Deal scheme.

However, the rent from the property then becomes liable for assessment as income and someone getting support under Fair Deal needs to contribute 80pc of income.

Say an elderly person's income is 20,000. They have to contribute 80pc of that. This works our at 16,000 under Fair Deal, leaving 4,000. If they rent out the property, say that brings in 12,000.

That means the income is now 32,000, and 80pc of that has to be contributed, or 25,600. That leaves the older person with 6,400, according to Age Action.

Q: Will the insurance lapse because the property is vacant?

A: You can organise insurance for vacant houses, but it is best to be upfront with your insurance company.

Brian McNelis of the Irish Brokers Association says that the fact that no one is living in the home substantially increases the risk for the insurer, and is considered a material fact that needs to be disclosed.

Generally, a property is regarded as being unoccupied if it's been vacant for longer than 30 days, though policies will vary.

Vacancy will impact the cover offered by the insurers, with certain restrictions placed on the cover depending on how long the property is likely to stay unoccupied.

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Most insurers will restrict cover to fire alone but will insist that all services are turned off, all combustible items are removed and that properties are regularly inspected, Mr McNelis says.

Age Action's Justin Moran says it is common for insurers to refuse to renew a policy if a property becomes vacant.

Q: Are there loopholes and can you cheat the system?

A: That happens, although it is a dangerous practice as Revenue oversees the part of the scheme where the home is being used to finance it.

However, a review of the Nursing Home Support Scheme in 2015, carried out by the Department of Health, found evidence that families were under-valuing the assets of the nursing home resident.

This emerged after the HSE reviewed assets of residents after their death.

A sample survey carried out by the HSE showed that in 30pc of the cases where a schedule of assets was available, almost a quarter had under-declared cash assets. It is an offence to provide false or misleading information to the authorities.

"The act [Nursing Home Support Act] enables the HSE to recover monies from the deceased's estate if there has been a non-disclosure or misstatement in relation to assets," the HSE said.

Q: Who pays the property tax on a house in the Fair Deal scheme?

A: If the house is empty for 12 months because the owner is in a nursing home it is exempt from the property tax. But a doctor has to certify that the older person will not return to live there.

If it is not empty, the owner of the property is liable for property tax as normal.

Q: Why not take the property tax valuation when valuing the house?

A: The legislation that set up Fair Deal required an independent valuation of the property for the purposes of the financial assessment.

This legislation pre-dates the introduction of the property tax.

Also, the property tax evaluation is based on the value of similar properties in a particular location, and isn't an evaluation of a specific property given its condition at the time of valuation. The 2015 Department of Health review of the scheme did suggest "that the HSE considers accepting the valuation bands used by the Revenue Commissioners for local property tax in order to minimise the cost and time for an applicant obtaining a property valuation".

Mr Moran, of Age Action, said his organisation is not aware what, if anything, has been done to progress that.

The HSE said it was bound by the 2009 legislation underpinning the scheme.
The army also destroyed a workshop for manufacturing explosive materials

Egypts army killed six terrorists and arrested another in central Sinai, the armys spokesman said Saturday in a statement on his official Facebook page.

The army also destroyed a workshop for manufacturing explosive materials and a number of motorbikes, the statement added.

The armys border guards also found and destroyed an underground warehouse that stored four tons of narcotics ready for distribution.

Egypts army and police forces have been waging a war over the past three years against an Islamist militant insurgency in North Sinai. Hundreds of security personnel and militants have been killed in the violence.

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Scriptwriter Asghar Farhadi, winner of the award for Best Script for the movie  The Salesman  , attends the Palme D'Or Winner Press Conference on May 22, 2016 in Cannes, France. (Photo by Ian Gavan/Getty Images)

=Taraneh Alidoosti and director Ashgar Farhadi attend "The Salesman (Forushande)" Photocall during the 69th annual Cannes Film Festival. (Photo by Tristan Fewings/Getty Images)

Iran's Asghar Farhadi is unable to attend this year's Oscars, where is film is nominated, because of Donald Trump's ban on people travelling from seven Muslim majority countries.

Trump announced this week that nationals from Syria, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Iran, Sudan and Yemen will be refused access to the US for 90 days.

The ban will prevent Iranian director Farhadi from attending the 2017 Academy Awards which are set to take place on Sunday, February 26.

Farhadi is a multi-award winning Iranian director and writer. His film, The Salesman, is nominated for Best Foreign Language Film representing Iran.

Expand Close Scriptwriter Asghar Farhadi, winner of the award for Best Script for the movie  The Salesman  , attends the Palme D'Or Winner Press Conference on May 22, 2016 in Cannes, France. (Photo by Ian Gavan/Getty Images) / Facebook

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Whatsapp Scriptwriter Asghar Farhadi, winner of the award for Best Script for the movie  The Salesman  , attends the Palme D'Or Winner Press Conference on May 22, 2016 in Cannes, France. (Photo by Ian Gavan/Getty Images)

He was nominated for a screenwriting Oscar for A Separation, which won the Best Foreign Language Film Oscar in 2012. The film made history by becoming the first Iranian film to win an Academy Award.

One of the stars of the film, Taraneh Alidoosti, had previously announced she would boycott the Oscars due to the impending visa restrictions placed on Iran.

Trump's visa ban for Iranians is racist. Whether this will include a cultural event or not,I won't attend the #AcademyAwards 2017 in protest pic.twitter.com/CW3EF6mupo  Taraneh Alidoosti (@t_alidoosti) January 26, 2017

Farhadi could obtain special permission to enter the US but so far he has not made a statement on the situation.

Oscar bosses are furious that Trump's executive order

A statement from the Academy said: "The Academy celebrates achievement in the art of filmmaking, which seeks to transcend borders and speak to audiences around the world, regardless of national, ethnic, or religious differences.

"As supporters of filmmakers - and the human rights of all people - around the globe, we find it extremely troubling that Asghar Farhadi, the director of the Oscar-winning film from Iran A Separation, along with the cast and crew of this year's Oscar-nominated film The Salesman, could be barred from entering the country because of their religion or country of origin."

Farhadi's film, The Salesman, is up against Land of Mine (Denmark), Toni Erdmann (Germany), It's Only the End of the World (Canada) and Tanna (Australia), in the same category.

The Salesman, also picked up Best Screenplay and Best Actor at Cannes in May.

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The Salesman opens in Ireland on March 31.
Veteran actor Sir John Hurt has died at 77 after a battle with pancreatic cancer.

The Oscar-nominated star was well known for roles including Quentin Crisp in The Naked Civil Servant, the title role in The Elephant Man and wand merchant Mr Ollivander in the Harry Potter films.

His agent, Charles McDonald, confirmed his death to the Press Association on Saturday.

The British actor was nominated for two Academy Awards, for The Elephant Man and Midnight Express, and won four Bafta Awards, including a lifetime achievement recognition for his outstanding contribution to British cinema in 2012.

Hollywood legend Mel Brooks described him as "a truly magnificent talent".

"No one could have played The Elephant Man more memorably. He carried that film into cinematic immortality. He will be sorely missed," he added.

Stephen Fry celebrated the "great man" for excelling as an actor, whether he was working in cinema, television or on the stage.

Richard E Grant tweeted: "So so sad to have lost such an extraordinary talent and friend. Sir John Hurt. R. I. P."

Sir John told the Press Association of his diagnosis in June 2015.

He said: ''I have always been open about the way in which I conduct my life and in that spirit I would like to make a statement.

''I have recently been diagnosed with early stage pancreatic cancer. I am undergoing treatment and am more than optimistic about a satisfactory outcome, as indeed is the medical team.

''I am continuing to focus on my professional commitments and will shortly be recording Jeffrey Bernard Is Unwell (one of life's small ironies!) for BBC Radio 4.''

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He later told the Radio Times: "I can't say I worry about mortality, but it's impossible to get to my age and not have a little contemplation of it.

"We're all just passing time, and occupy our chair very briefly. But my treatment is going terrifically well, so I'm optimistic."

Sir John enjoyed a big hit with sci-fi horror Alien in 1979 and his character's final scene has been frequently named as one of the most memorable in cinematic history.

He recently found new fans when he starred as a "forgotten" incarnation of the Doctor, known as the War Doctor, in Doctor Who.

He was knighted by the Queen for services to drama at an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle in 2015.

Earlier this year Sir John pulled out of a production of John Osborne's play The Entertainer on medical advice, as he recovered from an intestinal complaint.

He had been due to play Billy Rice in the Kenneth Branagh Theatre Company production, directed by Rob Ashford.

However, he continued to work at a prodigious rate, starring in Jackie Kennedy biopic Jackie, thriller Damascus Cover and the upcoming biopic of boxer Lenny McLean, My Name Is Lenny.

He was also filming Darkest Hour, in which he starred as Neville Chamberlain opposite Gary Oldman's Winston Churchill.

The film focuses on Churchill's charge against Adolf Hitler's army in the early days of the Second World War and is due to be released on December 29.

Sir John, who played Caligula in the celebrated BBC drama I, Claudius, also racked up film hits in V for Vendetta, Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy and Hercules.

Other celebrated roles included his performance as Stephen Ward - a key figure in the Profumo affair - in Scandal and a reprisal of his role as Crisp for An Englishman In New York in 2009, 34 years after his original portrayal of the flamboyant figure.

Sir John's distinctive voice has been used several times as narrator, and accompanied a chilling Aids awareness advertising campaign in the 1980s.

Born in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, Sir John went to art college before he studied at Rada (Royal Academy of Dramatic Art) and picked up TV and film roles until he had his major breakthrough, appearing in A Man For All Seasons as Richard Rich.

Sir John achieved further prominence in the film 10 Rillington Place as Timothy Evans who was wrongly executed for the crimes of serial killer John Christie, played by Richard Attenborough.
Katherine Lynch dancing with Kai Widdrington during the Second live show of RTEs Dancing with the Stars. Photo: Kyran O'Brien

'Dancing with the Stars' contestant Katherine Lynch has admitted she would never have had the confidence to join the show without 'Operation Transformation'.

The comedian, who has impressed judges with her dancing prowess since the start of the RTE series, revealed that had she not lost weight, she wouldn't have agreed to compete.

"Without 'Operation Transformation', I would not be doing this show," Katherine told the Irish Independent.

"You wouldn't be confident enough to do it for one and to be honest, you wouldn't even be able to get any costumes to fit you. I'm still the biggest dancer out there, even though I'm watching everything I eat."

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The Leitrim-born entertainer shed 13.5lbs on weight-loss series 'Operation Transformation' last September and has now gone on to lose even more due to her gruelling rehearsals with dance partner Kai Widdrington.

"I find some of the costumes hard to get on and I'm still on my journey, but I'm feeling amazing," she said.

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"I would never fat shame, but I would say to people that you do feel better when you can move around easier and fit into nicer clothes. It's a fact. I never even thought I was that unhappy before but now that I am really happy, you know, it's a measure of it."

This weekend sees the star take on a fast-paced samba and Katherine didn't hold back about the fact that she very much wants to remain on the series for as long as possible.

And, even though she was sad to see co-star Hughie Maughan voted off last week, the refreshingly honest Katherine admitted that all of the contestants on the show are ultimately just hoping to stay in.

"It was such a shock to see Hughie go and it's really genuine that you don't want to see anyone go, but you definitely don't want to see yourself go either," she laughed.

Following his elimination from the show last weekend, 'Big Brother' star Hughie said that he had a new series in the works with comedy queen Katherine. Katherine said: "Hughie has commissioned a show himself. I don't know whether that is going to come about.

"Hughie gets me in trouble, he gets himself in trouble and then he tries to get me in trouble too."

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Either way, the focus for the foreseeable is remaining on the dance series, and Katherine hopes viewers at home will continue to keep her in the show.
Rachel Allen had been tipped for the role. Picture: Cathal Burke / VIPIRELAND.COM

Celebrity chef Rachel Allen is keeping mum on speculation that she could be on the menu for the Great British Bake Off, after she was pictured at a screen test for the new Channel 4 show.

The Ballymaloe chef was seen smiling broadly as she entered a venue in south London alongside some of the biggest stars of the UK culinary world.

Rachel (44) certainly looked the part as she met with some of the production team, dressed in a tweed jacket teamed with smart leather boots.

When asked if she has indeed landed a gig on the programme, she told the Herald: "I've no comment to make, thanks."

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The much-loved show is currently undergoing a revamp, having been bought from the BBC in a controversial deal rumoured to be worth 87m last year.

Star baker Paul Hollywood was the only one who chose to move to Channel 4 after Mary Berry vetoed it, alongside original hosts Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins.

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Producers are now keen to find the right mixture of personalities for the new show, to ensure it's just as big a success as it was on the BBC, and clearly Rachel is a being considered as a serious contender for one of the roles.

Also pictured at the casting at the house in London's Tooting was MasterChef presenter Michel Roux Jr, alongside Michelin-starred chef Frances Atkins and chef and cookery writer Lady Claire Macdonald.

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Best known for her RTE cookery series Bake!, Rachel has also hosted the Good Food Channel's Market Kitchen show in the UK and published a string of best-selling books.

The in-demand cook, who is married to Darina Allen's son Isaac, already designs a range of sandwiches for O'Brien's and is also in the throes of opening up her first restaurant on Cork's Washington Street.

One of the UK's biggest shows, more than 14 million tuned in to last year's GBBO final on BBC One.

Last September saw Channel 4 sign a three-year deal with Love Productions, which makes the hit baking programme.
Events at Dublin airport have highlighted again the importance of effective security at our air and sea ports.

Amid the confusion and threatened chaos created by the Brexit talks, it has also emerged that vigilance will have to be increased along the Border with Northern Ireland to prevent this State being used as a regular back-door route into the new-look EU.

Last month, PSNI chief constable George Hamilton created a controversy when he alleged that international criminals were entering the UK through Ireland.

Mr Hamilton told the Northern Ireland affairs committee of the House of Commons that immigration controls in the Republic did not have the same level of resources.

The remarks were strongly rejected by Tanaiste and Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald and Garda Commissioner Noirin O'Sullivan.

Through Operation Weld, which deals with the Common Travel Area, Irish officers have referred about 300 cases of immigration abuse to their UK counterparts since mid-2015, and half of those were arrested by UK officers.

Mrs Fitzgerald said this further demonstrated the close co-operation between the Irish and UK authorities.

It is also vital that the Garda's standing with other European police forces is not put at risk because of the failure for the past four months to fill a key overseas post permanently.

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The Garda authorities are trying to find experienced candidates from the force to work on a full-time basis at Europol, the EU's law enforcement agency, at its headquarters at The Hague in the Netherlands.

Gardai have been involved at Europol since it started out 20 years ago as the European drugs unit.

Two gardai and one customs liaison officer are currently based at the agency.

One of the garda posts became vacant in August.

But a competition has not yet been set up to find a replacement.

In the meantime, the garda authorities are filling the job on a temporary basis, with officers being deployed in The Hague for three weeks and then replaced.

This is regarded by senior officers as a major blow to their efforts to improve co-operation between their representatives and colleagues from the other 27 EU countries and non-EU partner states.

"The key to this job is being able to build up a close relationship with members of other police forces and use those contacts to further joint efforts to counter terrorism and combat organised crime gangs," one officer said.

Despite the alleged scam coming to light this week, security checks at the airports have improved significantly in recent weeks.

A pilot project was introduced at Dublin Airport at the end of December, which allowed immigration officers to carry out instant checks on passports with an Interpol database tracking lost and stolen travel documents.

This was very successful in its first two weeks.

It has since been extended across the State.

It is now becoming a big part of immigration security and providing a boost to anti-terrorism efforts to track the movements of suspected jihadis.

In the first eight weeks more than 700,000 documents have been searched with a number of people refused entry to the State.
Bus Eireann is on the brink of an all-out strike after acting chief executive Ray Hernan set a date to roll out pay cuts next month.

Unions threatened industrial "warfare" after Mr Hernan said earnings will be slashed from February 20.

Transport Minister Shane Ross has been branded a "spectator" in the row amid mounting pressure for him to intervene. But he repeated that he cannot get involved in the dispute, claiming it would not be in the interests of the taxpayer or rural communities.

In a letter to staff, Mr Hernan said Sunday premium shifts will drop to 20pc, rota and shift premium payments will be axed and overtime rates reduced.

There will be a 10pc cut in allowances and sick pay benefits will be reduced. In addition, a pool of part-time and casual drivers will be set up.

Unions including the NBRU and Siptu have a mandate for industrial action if the company imposes cuts and have threatened an all-out strike.

The letter was sent as unions claimed measures already being taken - including a ban on overtime and work on rest days - are already hitting services.

In his letter, Mr Hernan warned any industrial action will result in a significant deterioration in company finances and mean even greater savings have to be found.

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He said the date of February 20 was decided "to facilitate meaningful engagement with staff representatives".

However, unions have ruled out talks on the cuts.

They have estimated they will reduce earnings by up to 30pc, although Mr Hernan claimed they will fall by 10pc on average.

He said Bus Eireann is in a critical financial crisis and losses for last year will be between 8m and 9m.

He accused unions of putting the jobs of the company's 2,600 staff at risk and said they "need to act responsibly".

"I have already informed you that we will face insolvency unless we take action to avoid placing all jobs at risk," he said. "There is no change to this position."

He said a review of "all structures" is underway and will be finished by the end of March.

The cuts are in addition to measures including a ban on overtime and working on rest days already being implemented.

Siptu said these measures have hit services including the 109 in Cavan.

On Wednesday, it said services were cancelled between Dublin and Kells; Kells and Dublin Airport and Dublin Airport to Kells.

A Bus Eireann spokesperson said more drivers than normal had reported in sick and the company was "doing its best to ensure services remain in place". She said there are 6,000 services a day and cancellations represent less than 0.1pc of these.
The Court of Appeal has ruled the "interests of justice" warranted the dismissal of libel proceedings by communications consultant Monica Leech, over an article in the 'Sunday Independent' 12 years ago.

The case related to a front-page article of January 30, 2005, concerning a burglary at Ms Leech's home. Ms Leech's proceedings were taken against Independent Newspapers Ltd. It denied libel, and its defence included pleading qualified privilege.

The case was initiated in April 2005, notices to proceed were served in 2008, then in 2014 Independent Newspapers applied to have the case dismissed and Ms Leech served a further notice of intention to proceed.

In November 2015, the High Court found inordinate and inexcusable delay by Ms Leech in advancing her action but also ruled the balance of justice favoured letting it proceed.

But in a unanimous judgment yesterday, the three-judge Court of Appeal granted the appeal by Independent Newspapers, represented by Cian Ferriter SC, against permitting the case to proceed.

Giving the appeal court's unanimous judgment, Ms Justice Mary Irvine held the High Court made legal errors in its assessment of where the balance of justice lay.

Ms Leech, the judge said, made a tactical decision to "park" this libel case, initiated in April 2005, while she pursued two other libel actions.

One of those cases, initiated in 2004 over articles in the 'Evening Herald', led to a 1.87m damages award in 2009, which was later reduced to 1.25m by the Supreme Court in 2014 on appeal. The second case, over a 2004 article in the Irish Independent, is subject to a retrial.
Three men have been remanded in custody after they were charged in connection with a major weapons seizure at a warehouse in west Dublin.

James Walsh (33), Johnathon Harding (44) and Declan Brady (51) were brought before Dublin District Court on firearms charges.

Judge Anthony Halpin remanded them in custody until next Wednesday after no bail applications were made on their behalf.

They are charged with possession of five revolvers, ammunition and a silencer.

Officers from the Garda Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau (DOCB) raided a warehouse at Greenogue Industrial estate, Rathcoole in a dawn operation on Tuesday.

Mr Walsh, of Neilstown Drive, Clondalkin; Mr Harding, of McNeill Court, Sallins, Co Kildare; and Mr Brady, from The Park, Wolston Abbey, Celbridge, also in Kildare, remained silent as evidence of their arrest, charge and caution was given at Dublin District Court.

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They are each charged with unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, possession of a silencer and having five handguns.

These are alleged to have been a Zastava M83-02 six-shot revolver, two special calibre Smith and Wesson model five-shot revolvers and two Rossi five-shot revolvers.

Detective Sergeant Emmet Casserly told the court Mr Brady said "no" in reply to each charge at Clondalkin station. Defence solicitor Anarine McAllister said Mr Brady was "not applying for bail on this occasion".

Detective Sergeant Michael Cuffe said Mr Walsh made "no reply" after caution.

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His barrister David Staunton asked Judge Halpin to make a similar remand order in this case, as Mr Walsh was also not applying for bail.

Mr Harding was the last of the accused to come in to court. Detective Sergeant Paul Curran said he arrested Mr Harding at Clondalkin station at 10.50am and he made no reply.

There was consent to the accused being remanded in custody to appear in Cloverhill District Court on February 1.
The Kinahan crime cartel is offering a 1m bounty for the capture of Gerry 'The Monk' Hutch - but they want him alive.

Associates of murdered drug dealer David Byrne only want the veteran gangster kidnapped so that they can torture him to death, according to a source.

The contract was offered to a number of international drug gangs. They have also offered a 100,000 reward for his murder.

Daniel Kinahan and another Crumlin-based drug dealer have told associates that they are determined to extract cold-blooded revenge on Hutch, who they blame for David Byrne's killing in the Regency Hotel attack on February 5 last year.

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It was a retaliatory strike for the murder of his nephew Gary Hutch in Spain in September 2015, and a botched hit on Gerry Hutch himself in Lanzarote three months later.

"They have told the outfits concerned in the UK, Spain and Holland that they will pay a million if Gerard Hutch is taken alive," a source said.

"They want him held at a safe location until they get there and then torture him - they want to give him a slow and painful death in revenge for what happened to Byrne.

"There are guys out everywhere trying to locate Gerard [Hutch] and lure him into a trap so that is why he is being so vigilant and watching every move. He can trust very few people.

"He has lost so many friends and family now that he has no fear of death and he will go out by bringing some of them down with him."

The unevenly matched feud has claimed 11 lives, with all but one of the victims murdered by the Kinahan side, including two totally innocent men.

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Hutch's brother, two nephews and two of his closest friends were among the dead. The gardai also say they have thwarted several more potential hits on members of Hutch's family.

The former armed robber fled Ireland shortly after the murder of his second nephew, Gareth Hutch, who was gunned down in Dublin on May 24 last year. He has been moving between a number of locations in Europe and the UK ever since.

Hutch is also on the run from gardai who believe they have enough evidence to charge him in connection with the Regency attack.

Investigators believe the Monk planned the 'spectacular' which involved a five-man hit team, armed with AK47s and dressed as gardai.

The intention was to wipe out the core leadership of the Kinahan mob including its boss Daniel, who had organised a weigh-in for a WBO European Lightweight title fight due to take place the following day.

While investigators do not believe Hutch was one of the shooters, they have evidence that he was in the area when the incident took place.

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The Irish Independent understands that detectives also obtained several hours of bugged conversations between Hutch and an associate in which they discussed aspects of the Regency Hotel attack.

Using anti-gang legislation, officers concealed eavesdropping devices in a Jeep belonging to Hutch's associate.

Meanwhile, a source close to the feud has claimed that the initial murder of Gary Hutch was ordered because he was "mouthing off" about how the Kinahan cartel had double-crossed and ripped off several of business partners.

In particular the source claimed that Kinahan double-crossed a notorious Dutch drug trafficker, Robert Mink Kok (55), who had been a long-time associate of his Christy Kinahan.

Mink Kok, who has a string of convictions for gun-running and international cocaine trafficking, first met Christy Kinahan in Holland in the early 1990s and became business associates.

The Dutch criminal is married to the sister of two Lebanese brothers who were involved in international arms dealing and drug trafficking - and who were also associated with the Kinahan cartel.

One of the Koleilat Dalbi brothers had been secretly supplying heavy military hardware, including helicopter gunships, to the one-time Liberian dictator Charles Taylor. The brothers were separately extradited to the US by the Drug Enforcement Agency three years ago.

According to the source, Daniel Kinahan and his associates in Marbella decided to move in on Mink Kok's operation behind his back - killing his bagman in August 2013 in Marbella, and taking over his South American (drug) connections.

"Gary knew all this information and he knew about lots of other killings and rip offs that they had done. Kinahan couldn't take a chance with Gary spilling the beans to the people he had ripped off and that is the main reason why Daniel reneged on his deal with Gerard [the Monk]."

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The source claimed that Gary Hutch had information that the Kinahan cartel had "stolen" 30kg of cocaine from another Dutch gang, which they then blamed on a different criminal group.

The row between Gary Hutch and Daniel Kinahan can also be traced to a dispute over the proceeds of a massive tiger kidnapping in Dublin in 2009.

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Hutch was a member of the gang which got away with 7.6m in cash from the Bank of Ireland in College Green in Dublin, after a bank employee was kidnapped along with his partner and her family.

According to the underworld source, Daniel Kinahan agreed to launder 2.5m of the loot for Gary Hutch who later moved to live in the Costa del Sol with the rest of the mob.

Kinahan had also agreed to launder a further 2m for another member of the Hutch gang, Darren O'Brien, from North Strand in Dublin 3.

According to the source when O'Brien changed his mind Daniel Kinahan "was fuming" and one of his associates tipped off gardai.

On February 27, the day after the huge heist, detectives arrested O'Brien (27) and Mark Donoghue (42) from Legan in Co Longford after they seized 1.7m of the robbery proceeds.

The two accomplices subsequently pleaded guilty. O'Brien was sentenced to seven years for handling the proceeds of the robbery while Donoghue was given five years for money laundering.

None of the rest of the cash was recovered.

The relationship between Gary Hutch and Daniel Kinahan deteriorated even further after Hutch began putting pressure on Kinahan for his money which was supposedly invested in property.

The sources said that Hutch accused Daniel Kinahan of ripping him off.

In August 2014 a close associate of Gary Hutch was sent to shoot Daniel Kinahan - but instead shot and injured an innocent man.

A corrupt local police officer later tipped off Kinahan that the shooter had used a car belonging to Mink Kok, which Gary Hutch had access to.
Egypt's civil aviation minister is set to visit Moscow to discuss his country's airports security measures to resume flights between both countries, according to Rosaviatsiya spokesman

Egypt and Russia are set to sign a joint intergovernmental agreement on airport security during the Egyptian civil aviation ministers visit to Moscow in February, Russian transport minister Maxim Sokolov announced on Friday, though he did not speak on the details of the agreement.

We are currently preparing for a meeting upon a request by the Egyptian side. I cant determine a specific date for this meeting, Sokolov said in statements to Russian news agency Sputnik.

Earlier last week, spokesman for the Russian Federal Air Transport Agency (Rosaviatsiya) Sergei Izvolsky told Russian news agency TASS that Fathy will visit Moscow to participate in the National Civil Aviation Infrastructure Exhibition, which will be held under the auspices of Rosaviatsiya.

According to Izvolsky, Fathy will take part in the exhibitions plenary meeting and speak on the measures that Egyptian authorities have been taking to create conditions to resume air service between our countries.

Egypt has been implementing tighter security measures at its airports since a Russian passenger flight crashed shortly after taking off from Sharm El-Sheikh International Airport in October 2015.

Russia suspended passenger flights to Egypt shortly after the crash.

Sokolov said on Friday that a delegation of Russian experts is set to visit Egypt in February for an inspection of Cairo International Airport, pointing out that this could be the final such visit before passenger flights are resumed between the two countries.

In mid January, a team of Russian experts arrived in Egypt for a security inspection of the Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada international airports.

The Islamic State militant group claimed responsibility for downing the Russian flight in 2015, which killed all 224 people on board. Egyptian investigations into the cause of the crash are still ongoing.

A number of European countries that suspended flights to Sharm El-Sheikh following the 2015 crash have recently reinstated direct flights to the South Sinai tourist hotspot.

On Tuesday, Germany lifted the last set of restrictions on direct flights from Germany to Sharm El-Sheikh.

Russia, which led European countries in sending tourists to Egypt prior to the crash, has conducted several inspections of Egyptian airport security measures in preparation for the resumption of flights.

Russian President Vladimir Putin promised Egypts President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi in late December that flights would resume soon.

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Evelyn and Terence Wainwright currently get one hour's HSE home care each day, from Monday to Friday.

But their lives would be made so much easier if they had more support.

Evelyn (70) suffers from polio, which affects her mobility.

She is the main carer of Terence (81), a former city council worker, who suffered a stroke and has other health complications.

The couple, who live in Togher, Cork, would like to see some of the budget from the nursing home Fair Deal scheme freed up to allow older people, who live at home, to purchase private care. "I used to have one hour's home help a week for myself but that was taken away.

"I had to fight for the home care for Terence.

"I could not manage it on my own.

"The HSE home care worker comes every morning to get Terence dressed and I take over at the weekend."

Evelyn says they take life "day by day" and despite the financial struggle they make health insurance for Terence a priority.

"He would not be alive if he had to rely on the public system," she said. "I think it would be fairer all round if people could get a share of what it would cost for a nursing home to buy the home care themselves.

"It is less costly for the State. A nursing home costs well over 1,000 a week," added Evelyn.
Enda Kenny, pictured this week with Eamon Creamer, owner of a 1916 Ford, at the launch of the Action Plan for Regional Development Photo: Mark Condren

Taoiseach Enda Kenny has been left isolated by his senior Cabinet members in an unprecedented backlash over his decision to open up the possibility of a future coalition with Sinn Fein.

As Fine Gael TDs tried to establish whether Mr Kenny had landed an old-school gaffe or actually intended to change the long-standing party stance on Gerry Adams, his own officials were also scrambling to come up with a plausible explanation.

Ultimately, TDs were briefed to argue that Sinn Fein's sudden willingness to be a junior partner in a coalition was the result of watching Fine Gael's hard-working minority Government.

Apparently, they had a Pauline conversion and realised there's a "glass ceiling on carping from the sidelines".

Strikingly, not a single Fine Gael representative used the newly conceived 'party line', instead opting to vocally reject Sinn Fein's history, economic policies and populist politics.

"I don't think the two parties are compatible partners that could work together in government, there are too many fundamental differences," leadership contender Simon Coveney told the Irish Independent.

Health Minister Simon Harris said: "Our parties are not in any way compatible in government. I'm not in favour of coalition with Sinn Fein."

Charlie Flanagan ruled the idea as being totally out of order, citing the "litany of chequebook proposals" that Sinn Fein bring into the Dail every week. The Foreign Affairs Minister said that he respected the work Sinn Fein did in Northern Ireland and is happy to work with them as a co-guarantor of the Good Friday Agreement.

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But he added: "I see an incompatibility between Sinn Fein and Fine Gael which ensures there cannot be a relationship in government between the parties. Sinn Fein stands for a 32-county democratic social people's republic. Its policies are so far removed from Fine Gael they would cripple the country and undo much of the hard work of recent years."

Social Protection Minister Leo Varadkar said a coalition with Sinn Fein "wouldn't be possible".

The closest anybody came to defending 'the boss' was Tanaiste Frances Fitzgerald who said politicians "have to work with the results".

Yet even she added a "however", saying "there are very significant gaps between Fine Gael and Sinn Fein in terms of policy and ethos, and I find it difficult to see how that gap could be bridged".

Several other ministers said the controversy brought Mr Kenny's judgment into question, with two stating "he's losing it".

"This is all leading somewhere and it's not good," said one junior minister.

Of course, Mr Kenny is accustomed to getting flak over the years - but what will have struck him on this occasion are the names of the people emerging from backbenches. It wasn't the usual suspects running to the airwaves to distance themselves from the boss. Peter Burke and Colm Brophy, who were first out of the traps, would be considered as 'moderates' by the leadership.

As one anti-Kenny rebel put it: "I'm not going to say anything today. When you have those sort of people out making the point, it's better that we stay quiet and not overshadow them."

Sources noted that this isn't just about the parliamentary party either, there is no appetite for cosying up to Sinn Fein at any level.

"The membership is very, very angry that he has brought this up. It sounds like we'd almost do a deal with anyone to stay in power," a source said.

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One TD, who wanted to believe that the Taoiseach was taken out of context, asked for audio of the Thursday afternoon exchange with journalists. But after listening, he replied with an angry 'emoji' face.

"I said I wouldn't do business with Fianna Fail so, depending on the result you gave as a member of electorate, politicians have to work with the result," the Taoiseach said.

It was a far cry from the "they're not fit for government" chorus during last year's election.

In the normal course of politics, you might expect the Leinster House 'newbies' to be the most open-minded about the idea of Tanaiste Mary Lou McDonald.

But they were among the most vocal opponents of the latest kite-flying from Government Buildings.

"I think it's unreasonable to expect Fine Gael to validate Sinn Fein as a reliable partner in any government," said Dublin Bay South TD Kate O'Connell.

Perhaps, more pointedly, she added: "By his own admission, Kenny has said he won't lead Fine Gael into the next election so really a partnership - with anyone - isn't really his call."

Noel Rock, who proposed Mr Kenny for Taoiseach in the Dail three times last year, was even more blunt: "If Gerry Adams is in, I'm out."

And Dublin Fingal TD Alan Farrell said the whole debate created by the Taoiseach was "nonsensical and concerning".

"I would say that the likelihood of them making it into government would be at the discretion of others in the opposition benches, specifically, Fianna Fail, should the prospect arise."

A senior Fianna Fail strategist laughed off the idea, saying that unlike Fine Gael their position "is absolutely clear in terms of Sinn Fein".

This won't topple Mr Kenny but it has put his leadership back on the table. His loyalists are scarpering and his enemies will be watching opinion polls very closely.
SIPTU president Jack O'Connor is to run for chairmanship of the Labour Party, the Irish Independent can reveal.

Mr O'Connor, who is considered a firebrand by many in the party, has not yet received a formal nomination for April's vote - but confirmed he intended to seek one in the coming days and was working on a manifesto.

He will campaign on the idea that "Connolly's party must be the catalyst for a coherent social democratic movement".

Mr O'Connor said that parties on the left of Irish politics needed to learn to "build alliances" in order to achieve their objectives.

By the centenary of Ireland's independence in 2022, the union boss wants full collective bargaining rights for workers, an end to homelessness, a free national health service and one of the best education systems in Europe.

"In order to do it is a requirement for the left to organise itself sufficiently to win the degree of political power necessary to set the agenda," he said.

Asked whether he envisaged the Labour Party doing business with Sinn Fein as part of this left-wing movement, he said: "I don't think it requires everybody who sees themselves as left to join it."

Mr O'Connor said he did not believe Labour would have to re-enter government after the next election to achieve the party's goals, citing Fianna Fail's confidence and supply arrangement as a way to be "out of office and holding a great lot of power".

Mr O'Connor has clashed with the party leadership in the past and reacting to the news, Labour Party leader Brendan Howlin told the Irish Independent: "Jack and I share the same broad world view, and he will make a very interesting candidate for chair.

"We may not agree on every issue, but as the son of a trade unionist, I believe I could work very constructively with Jack, and that he will bring enormous experience to the role if elected."

Outgoing chair Lorraine Mulligan has already announce she will not seek re-election at the party's annual conference.
The new owners of Westport House have pledged to invest 50m in the estate and create 200 jobs.

Westport House has been sold to local business family Hughes, who own Hotel Westport. Ganly Walters oversaw the sale of the 10-bedroom property. It was on the market for 10m, making it the nation's second most expensive country home for sale this year.

The Browne family, who have owned the house for centuries, "reluctantly" agreed to the sale in February last year.

The estate administrators recently agreed the terms of the sale of the estate and house to Hotel Westport.

"This is an emotional day for our family. On the one hand, we are handing over custody of our ancestral family home after hundreds of years but we are doing so in the knowledge that the new owners are committed to bringing to fruition the ambitions and dreams of our late and much loved father Jeremy Browne," Sheelyn Browne said. "We are indebted to the estate administrators Con Casey and Dermot Furey for their unrelenting efforts to secure the future of the estate."

The Hughes family's business dynasty also includes the Portwest outerwear firm. Cathal Hughes, the chairman of Hotel Westport, said: "On behalf of the Hughes family I want to wish the Browne family every success in the future and I look forward to liaising with them as we develop our plans over the next few years.

"I want to assure all the existing staff, suppliers and customers that we will continue to operate as normal under the new ownership."

Regional Economic Development Minister Michael Ring said: "I am delighted that the future of Westport House and estate has been secured and there is a purchaser who is going to invest further in the jewel of the tourism offering in the west of Ireland."
Museo Atlantico, an underwater museum featuring more than 300 sculptural works, has opened to the public.

The installations, by British artist Jason deCaires Taylor, can be found 14 metres beneath the surface of the Atlantic Ocean in Bahia de Las Coloradas (Coloradas Bay), on the south coast of Lanzarote in the Canary Islands.

The site (see our gallery above) spans an area of 2,500 square-metres, and can be explored by scuba divers, snorkellers or from glass-bottomed boats.

The permanent works, which include a 30 metre-long, 100-tonne wall, have been created entirely with pH neutral materials designed to foster the reproduction of local fish species and create a habitat for marine life in the Unesco-designated World Biosphere Reserve.

Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Previous Next Close Museo Atlantico of Lanzarote. Photo: Jason deCaires Taylor / CACT Lanzarote Museo Atlantico of Lanzarote. Photo: Jason deCaires Taylor / CACT Lanzarote Museo Atlantico of Lanzarote. Photo: Jason deCaires Taylor / CACT Lanzarote Museo Atlantico of Lanzarote. Photo: Jason deCaires Taylor / CACT Lanzarote Museo Atlantico of Lanzarote. Photo: Jason deCaires Taylor / CACT Lanzarote Museo Atlantico of Lanzarote. Photo: Jason deCaires Taylor / CACT Lanzarote Museo Atlantico of Lanzarote. Photo: Jason deCaires Taylor / CACT Lanzarote / Facebook

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The sculptures aim to portray the dialogue between past and present and the divisions within society, with some of the most notable works including The Rubicon, The Vortex and The Raft of Lampedusa, which references the influx of refugees on the Italian island.

The exhibition pays tribute to the refugees that succeed, but also those whose dreams and hopes remain at the bottom of the sea, Taylor told The Local.

I hope that the Museo Atlantico of Lanzarote represents an entry point to a different world and promotes a better understanding of our precious marine environment and of how much we depend on it, Taylor said at the museums opening earlier this month.

The Museo Atlantico is not the first showcase of underwater artwork by Taylor. He has previously opened the MUSA (Museo Subacuatico de Arte) in the surrounding waters of Cancun and Isla Mujeres in Mexico in 2009, as well as the Molinere Bay Underwater Sculpture Park in Grenada in the Caribbean, which was the first of its kind when it opened in 2006.

Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Previous Next Close Museo Atlantico of Lanzarote. Photo: Jason deCaires Taylor / CACT Lanzarote Museo Atlantico of Lanzarote. Photo: Jason deCaires Taylor / CACT Lanzarote Museo Atlantico of Lanzarote. Photo: Jason deCaires Taylor / CACT Lanzarote Museo Atlantico of Lanzarote. Photo: Jason deCaires Taylor / CACT Lanzarote Museo Atlantico of Lanzarote. Photo: Jason deCaires Taylor / CACT Lanzarote Museo Atlantico of Lanzarote. Photo: Jason deCaires Taylor / CACT Lanzarote Museo Atlantico of Lanzarote. Photo: Jason deCaires Taylor / CACT Lanzarote / Facebook

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In 2014, Mr Taylors Ocean Atlas piece in the waters of New Providence in Nassau, Bahamas, became the largest single sculpture ever to be installed underwater, weighing more than 60 tonnes.

Snorkelling around submerged sculptures is an unforgettable experience, said travel writer Hazel Plush, who visited the Grenada installation last year.

Taylor has an uncanny ability to capture the human likeness, and seeing these figures trapped forever on the bottom of the ocean was a surprisingly emotional experience.

"This isn't just a gimmick  every piece is in harmony with its surroundings, and designed to attract marine life while giving snorkellers and scuba divers some food for thought too.

Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Previous Next Close Museo Atlantico of Lanzarote. Photo: Jason deCaires Taylor / CACT Lanzarote Museo Atlantico of Lanzarote. Photo: Jason deCaires Taylor / CACT Lanzarote Museo Atlantico of Lanzarote. Photo: Jason deCaires Taylor / CACT Lanzarote Museo Atlantico of Lanzarote. Photo: Jason deCaires Taylor / CACT Lanzarote Museo Atlantico of Lanzarote. Photo: Jason deCaires Taylor / CACT Lanzarote Museo Atlantico of Lanzarote. Photo: Jason deCaires Taylor / CACT Lanzarote Museo Atlantico of Lanzarote. Photo: Jason deCaires Taylor / CACT Lanzarote / Facebook

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"It's great news that Taylor's work is now a little closer to home.

See cactlanzarote.com for more.

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Donald Trump is sworn in as the 45th president of the United States as Melania Trump looks on Picture: AP

There have been so many Trumps on display in the past few days that it's anyone's guess who will actually turn up for the first 100 days. The first few days have been extraordinary and kind of scary in terms of the president's grasp on economic reality.

For example, he said he would slap a 20pc tariff on Mexican goods to make "Mexico pay for the wall". But what he doesn't understand is that when you impose tariffs, it is the poor white Americans who buy dishwashers made in Mexico at Walmart that actually pay the tariff. This is how tariffs work. The consumer pays. So it's poor white Americans - the very people who voted for Donald - who will pay for the wall.

But economic logic apart, what is even more fascinating is the various Donalds on display so far. Economics is only the half of it. Who do you think will be the dominant Donald?

Will we get Boardroom Trump? The no-nonsense, straight-talking, waste-cutting, four-times bankrupt, business genius who will slash taxes and get corporate America purring again? This is the golf-club superhero, the darling of the 1pc. That's the man the markets think they see.

Or what if we get Stag-night Trump? You know the pussy-grabbing, dodgy-dealing, locker-room Trump, who is one scandal away from impeachment? That's the dude the media thinks it sees.

Or what about Town Hall Trump - the gold-plated, KFC-chewing, class-warrior capitalist who's gonna stick it to the Man for the little guy? That's the "straight-up guy made good" that Nascar America from Wisconsin to Pennsylvania thinks it sees.

But there's also Late Night Trump. He's the narcissistic, thin-skinned, keyboard warrior furiously tweeting away from the Oval Office at 4am, hitting out at his mainstream media enemies, stoking rage in the heartland, uncensored, unchecked, unhinged. This is the creature cyberspace thinks it sees.

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There's also 'America First' Trump. The wall-building, hombre-watching, China-bashing, alt-right flirting, bring 'em all back home Donald, who will make America great again by cutting it off from the rest of the world. This is the leader the rest of the world thinks it sees.

Don't forget Bob the Builder Trump! He's the construction guy who's going to rebuild America's infrastructure and give formerly Democratic blue collar, Bud-swilling, MMA-watching working dudes decent jobs on the sites again. He's the guy, the people who deserted Hillary - the Trump Democrats - think they see.

But which Donald - or combination of Donalds - turns up in the next 100 days is anyone's guess.

One thing is clear: he has quasi-despotic powers.

With majorities in the Senate and House, he can appoint who he wants, to whatever job he wants. He can also, like his reality TV 'Apprentice' character, fire whomever he wants.

His cabinet reflects this power. But he needs results quickly because these total powers last only 24 months, at which point we will see the great American bi-annual referendum on the president, known as the Congressional elections.

This is where the checks and balances of the American system kick in. This is what the Founding Fathers inserted into the constitution just in case power went to a future president's head.

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So on the policy front, expect a whirlwind first 100 days that focuses on the US. Sure there'll be foreign misadventures such as the 'building the wall' fiasco, but domestic politics remains the life-blood of the Trump revolution.

First we will see Boardroom Trump - the economic hit-man, beloved of the markets, who will cut corporation tax "bigly" and give a one-off amnesty for US corporate money "resting in accounts" abroad. Expect cash to flow back to Uncle Sam. This poses problems for the IFSC, which is little more than a safe deposit box for US multinationals.

But what then?

Will we see a massive kick to American investment driving the economy as promised by Mr Trump?

I'm not too sure because I don't buy the line that US corporate investment has been low because corporate America doesn't have enough money. At 9.5pc of GNP, American profits are at the highest level in my lifetime.

Corporate America arguably has too much cash.

Rather than a surge in factory building, it's more likely that the offshore money will come back to the States, the tax will be paid and the cash will either be redistributed in the form of a massive one-off dividend to shareholders (it's their money after all) or it will be used as a war-chest to buy companies.

I suspect new multinational money will revert to being held abroad. So we will see an outflow from Ireland, followed by a gradual rebuilding of the position until US corporate tax rates align with Ireland's. This is unlikely, even in the medium term.

In the first 100 days, expect to see Bob the Builder Trump in full swing. Mr Trump will expand the fiscal deficit and my bet is that the fiscally constipated right-wing of the Republican party will do what they always do - rail against deficits in opposition, yet gorge on other people's money when in power. This is straight from Reagan's playbook.

Only Democrats are fiscally conservative in power and only Republicans are fiscally incontinent once they've got their hands on the levers.

But like everything with Mr Trump, there'll be a twist. Donald isn't about to unveil a public works scheme but rather a public private partnership for the already wealthy.

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He is going to give equity holders in leveraged public infrastructure an 82pc tax credit. This is not infrastructure investment: this is public-sanctioned larceny on a scale that might make Donald's mate Vladimir Putin blush.

The Trump Democrats mightn't twig who's really making money - nor might they care, so long as they are working full time at Walmart.

America First Trump will announce wall building, mass deregulation and drill, baby, drill! Wall Street will love this.

Despite the higher deficit, I suspect the Fed's Janet Yellen will be more accommodative to Mr Trump, and short rates will move up - but this is not Paul Volker; rates should peak at 2pc with a risk premium added on the long end. A central bank that has missed its forecasts on the down side for five straight years in a row can hardly get all-aggressive on the upside now.

The dollar should remain strong. Remember a currency is just a relative price and looking relatively around the world, I'm not hearing convincing stories. For the dollar to weaken, something else has to be getting stronger.

As for equity markets, they've gambled bigly on Boardroom Trump, but remember there are multiple Donalds out there and each one carries specific threats to America's stability.

Remember Stag-Night Trump only has to be let out once for scandal to immobilise this administration. Late Night Trump will court controversy. Meanwhile, beginning with Mexico, America First Donald angers former allies and potential foes everywhere.

Buckle up for the first 100 days.
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What will it take to unite Ireland? Opinions are divided

There are those for whom Northern Ireland is a geographical fragment of the UK holding true to empire on its western flanks, and those for whom partition is a century-old wrong that must be overturned. Somewhere in the middle are the persuadables  people willing to accept either unity or union, so long as the justification is logical. One way or another, the unity conversation is in the air.
Cairo prosecutors concluded their questioning of the head of the Doctors Syndicate Hussein Khairy on Saturday with regards to the temporary closure of Cairos Matariya Hospital in early 2016, syndicate deputy head Mona Mina told Ahram Online.

The hospital was closed briefly in January 2016 after nine policemen assaulted doctors working at the hospital.

The prosecution summoned Khairy for questioning on the circumstances of the assault and the subsequent closure of the hospital.

Khairy was also questioned regarding six of the Matariya Hospital staff who were summoned for questioning by the prosecution earlier this month for allegedly inciting to strike.

Khairy was dismissed by the prosecution without bail, and prosecution did not set a date for further questioning, so lawyers say there will likely be no further questioning, Mina said.

The nine policemen were sentenced in September 2016 to three years in prison, and an EGP 5,000 fine.

The defendants were accused of the "unauthorised detention of two doctors," physical and verbal assault, cruelty and misuse of power.

The convictions stem from an attack on 28 January 2016 by several low-ranking policemen against doctors at Matariya Hospital in eastern Cairo, after one of the doctors refused to include fake injuries in a medical report for one of the policemen.

The incident prompted thousands of doctors to protest in February at the Doctors Syndicate, calling for the prosecution of the assailants and the resignation of the health minister.

Earlier this month, a Cairo appeals court reduced the sentence for two of the defendants to six months in prison.

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The vast majority of older people in Ireland are active, healthy and live independently in their own homes. However, approximately one-fifth of older people living at home have one or more disabilities and need the help and support of others at various times and to varying degrees. A further 5pc of the older adult population live in long-stay residential care.

While Ireland currently has a relatively young population in comparison to other European countries, demographic trends suggest that the country will experience serious ageing of the population in the coming decades. Life expectancy for men and women has increased significantly in Ireland in recent decades. A male aged 65 years in Ireland can expect to live, on average, for another 18 years, while a female of the same age can expect to live for an additional 21 years. These gains are a cause for celebration and reflect the economic and health benefits of living in Ireland now in comparison to previous periods of our history.

Recent controversies have, however, highlighted serious imbalances in the care of dependent older people in Ireland. Although public policy purports to favour community-based care, the opposite is the case. The vast majority of government spending goes on supporting older people in residential care through the Fair Deal scheme. Close to 1bn was spent on the scheme in 2016, almost three times more than was spent on community-based care for older people. While there are some problems with Fair Deal, most people agree that it is an improvement on previous arrangements and it does allow people to access a very expensive resource on a statutory basis, albeit with some cost-sharing.

The situation is different in relation to community-based care. There is no right to community-based care in Ireland. The current provision is weak relative to need and distributed unevenly across the country. The result is that family carers bear most of the care burden and financial cost of looking after older people living at home.

For example, of the 2bn costs associated with dementia in the country, almost half is borne directly by informal carers. If families stopped caring, the care system would collapse. While there is no evidence to suggest that families will stop caring, increasing numbers of older people, a reduction in the number of potential carers due to lower birth rates and the increased labour force participation of women will necessitate a greater involvement of the State in the care of older people in the future.

Community care services for older people in Ireland are currently concentrated on public health nursing and home help provision. Public health nurses provide front-line support for dependent older people living at home, but they cannot meet all needs in the community given their considerable workload.

Home help is critical in allowing older people to remain in their own homes for as long as possible and practicable. However, financial constraints mean that the HSE has had to cut back spending on home support services, despite an increase in the number of people aged 85 and over and people living with complex conditions such as dementia. Not surprisingly, private expenditure on home care has grown in recent years as public spending has come under pressure.

Recent innovations in community care in Ireland have focused on the introduction of designated home care packages for older people living at home. These are additional support measures over and above existing community-based services and are designed to maintain very dependent older people at home, who might otherwise be in hospital or in residential care, through intensive home supports and rehabilitation services.

However, notwithstanding such innovation, not enough resources are currently being allocated to community-based care, including flexible, supported housing solutions for community-based living. This is long recognised and acknowledged by those at the front line of care in the HSE, but it seems to be impossible to change, even though it has been a consistent mantra of successive governments that change is necessary.

Thirty years ago 'The Years Ahead: A Policy for the Elderly' report highlighted the need for the development and practice of home-based care for older people and recommended greater state involvement to support community-based care. The report called for the development of a social model that maintained older people in their own homes rather than be admitted to long-stay residential care.

Back in 2005, the National Economic and Social Forum called on the then-government to spend an additional 500m to bring long-term care expenditure up to the OECD average. Nothing of the sort happened, even when we had the money to spend. It remains the official policy of the current Government to prioritise and support community-based care. But it is not doing so sufficiently.

So what needs to change to deliver the community-based system of care that all of us say we want? The first thing to acknowledge is that expanding community-based care is not going to be cheap. Providing good quality care that is individualised and tailored to the social needs of older people is expensive and sometimes requires complex supervision and co-ordination, especially when there is multi-morbidity involved. So solving the problem is going to cost money.

Some people are now talking about a Fair Deal-type of scheme for community-based care, but, even with cost-sharing, that will require additional resources, particularly if we include innovative housing solutions, which we must.

Funding long-term care through general taxation has not delivered the funds necessary to support an optimal community-based response for dependent older people. The latter seem to continually lose out in the allocation of scarce public resources collected through general taxation. So calling community care something different is not the solution, unless it is supported by additional money and a specific plan for policy implementation.

It is time, therefore, to think about a new social insurance model for financing long-term care that will generate earmarked funds to support care for dependent older people in Ireland living at home and in long-stay care facilities.

Additional money can be raised through social insurance contributions in a transparent and equitable manner over the lifecycle, in return for automatic entitlement should contributors need care and support at some time in the future. For those unable to make a contribution to the scheme, the Government could provide coverage. Social insurance would provide a public system of funding for the long-term built on reciprocity and solidarity across the generations, reflecting caring interdependencies and obligations that people in this country still value.

We need to act now to address the needs of dependent older people, particularly those living at home. We know the extent of the problem. We know the preferences of older people and their families. We have the policy tools to solve the problem. So let's address the issue through action rather than any further procrastination. Provide additional resources to older people living in the community now and initiate the process of developing a social insurance model to pay for these resources. This is prudent and rational public policy that will benefit dependent older people and their carers now and in the future. All of us have an interest and stake in getting this right.

Professor Eamon O'Shea is director of the newly established Centre for Economic and Social Research on Dementia at NUI Galway
Dundalk communities were praised for their 'heart warming' approach to a fundraising initiative for the vital work of a national charity.

Parishioners and churches across Dundalk rallied together, holding collections to raise funds and awareness for Fighting Blindness.

Thanks to the generosity and kindness of the Dundalk community an incredible 7,298 was raised which will be used to fund sight saving research into treatments and cures for blindness.

Funds raised will also help to provide counselling and peer to peer support for people and families affected by sight loss.

Chief executive of the charity, Kevin Whelan said: 'I have been really struck by the generosity of the people of Dundalk, as a small charity we are humbled by their enthusiastic support and goodwill.

Thank you so much to all involved, with special thanks to Eric Beggs, a long standing supporter and champion of Fighting Blindness who has worked tirelessly on our behalf.''

Fighting Blindness use funds raised to launch world-leading research into developing treatments and cures for blindness, while caring for people and families through counselling and peer to peer support services.

For more information about the charity and their work visit the website www.FightingBlindness.ie.
A County Louth punter has scooped an astonishing jackpot of 125,627 all thanks to their 2 lotto bet.

The amazing piece of luck came about after the 2 bet was split into two parts, a 1 accumulator on five numbers and a 1 treble, both on Saturday night's Lotto Plus 2 draw.

The 1 accumulator consisted of the five numbers 7, 13, 28, 31 and 42 which, when all drawn, saw the Wee County native bagging the life changing windfall of 125,001.

Their luck didn't stop there however as their 1 treble on the numbers 13, 28 and 42 also clicked seeing an extra 626 added to their winnings.

As a result of the two miniscule 1 bets they walked away 125,627 better off.

Aoife Heffron, PR Executive for BoyleSports said it was an extraordinary win for the local lotto enthusiast:

'One lucky Louth punter certainly had their January blues washed away when their two 1 bets on the Lotto Plus 2 draw came up, seeing them instantly win a combined total of 125,627.'

She added: 'It is undoubtedly a life changing sum, we want to wish them our sincerest congratulations on their windfall and are sure they are going to have a lot of fun spending it.'
Maureen Lennon Smyth, along with Anne Kirwan and John Smyth make a presentation of letters written by executed Civil War participant, Tom Lennon to Brian Walsh and Anita McEneaney in the County Museum

A collection of letters written by Civil War participant Tom Lennon ahead of his execution in 1923 will go on display at the County Museum, Dundalk in early February.

The correspondence, which was donated to the museum by Lennon's family, includes the final emotion-filled letter he wrote to his mother ahead of his execution. Lennon was one of a number of men who was killed by firing squad by Free State Forces at the Army Barracks in Dundalk in 1923, following the discovery of a gun in a car in which he was travelling.

County Museum Dundalk curator, Brian Walsh explained: 'These letters highlight the aftermath of the Easter Rising, reminding us not only of the impact of the War of Independence, but of the Civil War that followed.

'That is why these letters are so important - they take us back to the actual execution of participants. Anyone who reads these letters can feel the emotional strain that these people were under, and we can only imagine the hurt Tom's mother felt when reading these words.''

Donating the letters to the Museum, Lennon's niece, Maureen Lennon-Smyth said: 'We wanted as many people as possible to see these letters, to see the story of how people gave their lives and the pain that our family and others endured as a result'.

Mr Walsh said that it was a truly humbling experience to receive such a collection.
Dundalk's retailers and business community are in for a 'rocky road' ahead if border controls are imposed.

Mark Dearey, owner of the Spirit Store and chairman of Dundalk Municipal Council spoke on RTE's Morning Ireland about the reality of what such controls could mean for his hometown.

Despite Theresa's May's claim that she would work with the Irish government to ensure Brexit is as 'frictionless as possible' along the border, the business owner said he was 'not optimistic'.

'The actual impact on the ground for retailers and businesses like my own that rely on the northern hinterland, is extremely challenging and this is the case right across the border.'

He said the business community had learned to 'lean on each other, rely on each other, and deal with the currency fluctuations,' but admitted that the trading situation could be very difficult at times. Cllr. Dearey warned that 'to layer on top of that a whole range of new uncertainties' could be devastating for the border region.

He said it was a 'hopelessly optimistic view that the EU won't impose tariffs, therefore rewarding Britain for elaving the union... that is simply not going to happen.'

'I think we are in for a really rocky period, and while the negotiations may take two years, the implementation could take ten. That is something that really worries me as a business person, who has put significant investment into attracting our northern customer base over the years.'

Cllr. Dearey said there were now great fears of returning to a border situation that was 'highly disruptive in previous years.'

'It was a highly disruptive feature that held back the town for many years.'

He added that the situation only began to improve after the border was opened up to the free movement of people, goods and services.

The councillor, and well known environmentalist, also raised fears about 'ensuring the continuity of many services and systems in place for tourism, transport, health and emergency services.

'The water management system that governs our town is trans-border. So how is our water quality going to be assured?'

Meanwhile, Paddy Malone, from Dundalk Chamber of Commerce said the speech from the British Prime Minister has lead to 'confusion.'

'How you can square circles I really don't know? After so many months of uncertainty it was a case of hoping she wasn't going to say what she did say.'

He admitted that the plan to take the UK out of the customs union leads to the increased likelihood of a border returning.

'The challenge of us is to continue working to get the very best for the border counties.'
Firefighters in Louth have 'lost confidence' in the breathing apparatus (BA) they are supplied with after one failed while a fireman was inside a burning building recently, the Argus can reveal.

And the situation is so serious that firefighters indicated at the weekend they would consider industrial action if the council fails to deal with this health and safety issue head-on.

A source has given details to the Argus of the BA failure, which happened on November 16 while firefighters from Dundalk station were responding to a call to a house fire in the town. The source said: 'The BA set worn by one of the firefighters who was in the building failed resulting in the firefighter losing his air supply.

'This is a very serious issue and thankfully on the day in question the firefighter was only a short distance inside the house and was able to make a hasty retreat out to open air and remove his facemask in order to breathe again.

'Had the penetration into the building by the BA team had been any deeper, this could have resulted in serious injury or death as the BA set is a life-supporting piece of equipment that firefighters must have 100% confidence in so that they can enter a burning building or toxic atmosphere and be assured that they will have a supply of fresh air'.

And this was not, according to the source, an isolated incident. 'A similar situation happened earlier in 2016 during a training exercise at Dundalk fire station when another firefighter's set failed in the same manner, but thankfully, the training was conducted in a controlled environment so no injury was sustained on that occasion'.

In the wake of these incidents, 'the situation in fire stations across Louth is that firefighters have lost confidence in the BA sets used in Louth and in many stations around the country'.

It is understood that the problem centres on the failure of a connection on the house supplying the air to the facemask and it comes apart when the set was in use.

Louth County Council is aware of the problem, the Argus can confirm, though when asked for a response to the allegations made by the source, the council stated: 'This matter is currently under investigation and therefore Louth County Council will be making no comment at this time'.

The Health and Safety Authority said that while they are not carrying out an investigation they 'have engaged with Louth County Council Fire and Rescue Services in relation to occupational safety and health issues and cannot make any further comment at this stage'.

The source said that firefighters are fearful 'that if such a failure were to happen again, we might not be so lucky with the outcome . . . each time a firefighter puts on a BA to go into a burning building, the question is in the back of their minds: 'will my set fail this time?'

The source added that personnel are concerned about the length of time the council is taking to investigate the problem. 'Firefighters want this most serious issue resolved so that they can once again have confidence in this piece of equipment that they rely on so much in order to perform their duty of care to the general public'.

In addition, fire personnel had been assured that the BA would be sent to the UK for 'independent testing' but as of last week, this had not been done, the source alleged.

The source added: 'A large number of firefighters attended the meeting on Saturday despite the meeting being called at short notice. There were quite a number present at the meeting who voiced their discontent with the lack of action and lack of information available from Louth County Council.

'The meeting concluded with a vote been taken for some form of industrial action to be taken by firefighters if there was no action seen to be taken by Louth County Council'.
The man who turned his car around and followed the vehicle towing his caravan has spoken about the incident following the conviction of three men for handling stolen property.

David Griffin from Camlough was in Dundalk District Court last week for the case which saw three men from Dublin enter not guilty pleas to the charges arising out of the incident on January 25 2016.

He explained how he initially thought his wife may have given permission to his brother to take it, but soon found out this was not the case when he contacted her - it was no longer in its usual spot at the side of their home.

Mr Griffin said: 'I rang the police (PSNI) to tell them what was happening and I was heading towards the motorway. Then, I was getting close to the border and the police said that if you cross the border there is nothing they could do but they forwarded me through to the Gardai'.

All the while, Mr Griffin stayed four or five of cars behind the Isuzu, with blacked out windows, that was pulling his caravan. He had no idea who or how many was in the vehicle.

He said: 'The men had no idea they were being followed. At the Ballymac junction, I told Gardai where we were and they told me to stay back and I did.

'About five minutes later, the Gardai pulled up alongside me and I pulled in behind them'. Four squad cars, including one with members of the armed Regional Response Unit (RSU) pulled the Izusu over and Garda Finbarr Gurhy and Patricia Sloyan made the arrests.

He praised the work of the Gardai in making the arrests and bringing the case to court. He said: 'The Gardai were 100% I have to say. These guys were caught within 20 minutes and they didn't spare the resources in catching them, with the RSU and other backup there when it was called'.

Mr Griffin saw it all unfolded on the hard shoulder of the motorway, just before the junction 18 exit. He said he was prompted to take action after his father's caravan had been stolen two years before. He said: 'I was angry about what had happened with my father. He never got it back and although Gardai had contacted him a few times to ask him to view different caravans they had seized, they weren't his and his was never found.

'What happened on this day was just luck, really, I was heading to school for a meeting and just happened to see it. I live on a country road, just 20 minutes from Dundalk, and I felt that if I didn't go after the caravan I would probably never see it again'.

And, remarkably, Mr Griffin said he 'was never afraid at any stage' during the incident. 'It was in the heat of the moment. Anyone would have done the same the same thing'.

Around April last year, Gardai were able to return the caravan to the Griffins, but having it 'just wasn't the same'. Since this incident, the family has improved security around their house, installing CCTV. In the aftermath of the arrests, the family felt their home 'had been watched' in the run-up to the theft.

He said that while he was pleased the case was heard relatively quickly in the district court he felt that the community service given to the defendant was 'very lenient'.
The family was banned from traveling one day after US President's Donald Trump's order barring entry for citizens of seven Muslim-majority countries

Egyptian authorities barred on Saturday an Iraqi family from travelling to the United States upon the request of US authorities, a security source at Cairo International Airport told Ahram Online.

The family, a couple and their two children, was to travel to New York on board EgyptAir Flight 985 from Cairo.

A source at Cairo airport told Reuters that the ban came despite the travellers holding valid immigration visas.

The US request to bar the family from travelling came after EgyptAir sent the travel manifest with the flights passenger names to American authorities.

The decision comes one day after a newly inaugurated US President Donald Trump signed an order that temporarily bans travellers from Syria, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen from entering the US.

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The Housing Grants Scheme is now open for applications in Louth, with grants being awarded based on a priority basis.

Louth TD Declan Breathnach issued a statement this week advising those who wish to apply for any of the Housing Adaptation Grants that the grant scheme is now open for consideration of applications by Louth County Council.

'I am told that the grant scheme will remain open and grants awarded will be based on the normal priority basis."

'For Housing Adaption Grants - Priority 1, which will assist those who need whole time care in the home. Grants for Housing for Older People - Priority to works that will preserve the integrity of the dwelling, and finally Mobility Aids Grants - Priority 1, which will assist those who need whole-time care in the home. He added: 'I have been told by the County Council that any persons who made application in 2016, who were awarded Priority 1 do not require to make a further application. Any person who was deemed Priority 2 or 3 in 2016 will need to re-apply if they feel their circumstances need to be reassessed. Louth County Council Staff will be able to advise applicants from 2016 which category they were in.

People should consider applying where changes need to be made to a home to make it suitable for a person with a physical, sensory or intellectual disability or mental health difficulty to live in.

The grant can help you to make changes and adaptations to your home, for example, making it wheelchair-accessible, extending it to create more space, adding a ground-floor bathroom or toilet or a stair-lift, or for older people living in poor conditions they can apply for a grant to have necessary repairs carried out to their home.
With the search already underway for the 2017 Louth Rose, Megan Ferguson speaks of the 'proud role' she currently holds as 'the best experience of my life.'

The Carlingford native is in the last few months as Louth Rose, and is preparing for what may be her biggest challenge - a visit to an orphanage in Chernobyl.

Megan will be joining a group of twenty roses who are travelling to Chernobyl, a country devastated by a nuclear explosion in the 1980s.

As she prepares to join the group of other Roses and escorts as they travel to Belarus with Adi Roche's Chernobyl Children International, Megan tells of the unique bond between the 'Rose of Tralee family'.

'It really is the best part of this whole experience, the people I have met, and the extraordinary amount of support we have all been able to give each other on this journey.'

The 21 year old who works in The Four Seasons Hotel, Carlingford, says she is 'prouder than I ever could have imagined' at representing her county.

'Honestly, every time I put on the sash, it's like pulling on the county jersey.'

It's been a whirlwind of a year, we've had so many different events, from a trip to Germany where we visited the Christmas markets and we will be going to New York for the St Patrick's Day Parade.

Now in the last few months of her role, she is appealing to all young women who feel they want to 'develop their personality and confidence, and have the experience of a lifetime' to apply for the 2017 competition.

'The most difficult part of the whole process is actually getting your application form in. Once you do that, it's a great process to be part of, no matter how far you go with it.'

'Anyone who wants to talk about any aspect of the application, they can contact me through my facebook page.,' said Megan.

Application forms are available on www.roseoftralee.ie. A Louth Rose selection night will be held in Louth in the spring,
Arklow-based horror author Chris Rush chose a fitting day for the launch of his second book 'All Shall Suffer' recently.

Friday the 13th was the date in question and the venue was no less spooky, as the launch at Wicklow Gaol was a great success. A large number of guests travelled from near and far to support Chris, which he was delighted to see.

Chris will soon be travelling to Maryland USA again to follow up on his successful book signing over there last October. Chris himself doesn't show any signs of stopping soon as he is already thinking of a few ideas for his next horrific story.

He extended thanks to everyone who has supported him to date.

'I would like to thank all my family, friends and of course the readers for all their support over the last number of years. Thanks to the staff at Wicklow Gaol for allowing me to use a fantastic building for my book launch and also a huge thanks to Tina Barcoe for all her help with promoting the launch.'

You can find Chris on Facebook at 'chrisrushhorrorwriter101' or visit www.chrisrushauthor.com
Choose life with nae regrets. Choose to belatedly revisit one of the defining films of the mid-1990s, which shoved a dirty needle into the arm of Cool Britannia and stuck up two fingers to the notion that successful homegrown films could only be pristine period dramas or feel-good romantic comedies.

Choose the holy filmmaking trinity of director Danny Boyle, screenwriter John Hodge and producer Andrew Macdonald, who induced that intoxicating rush of blood to the head 21 years ago.

Choose a narrative joint rolled from Irvine Welsh's novel Trainspotting and the sequel Porno, cut with whirling camerawork that propels embittered characters down a new rabbit hole of nihilistic desire.

Choose the reunion of a predominantly Scottish cast on location in Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Choose vivid visual flourishes, projections, shadows and hallucinogenic flashbacks to realise each surrender to the siren song of addiction.

Choose another achingly hip and unabashedly retro soundtrack under the influence of award-winning Edinburgh band Young Fathers, Wolf Alice, Underworld and Frankie Goes To Hollywood.

Choose a multi-faceted portrait of modern masculinity - fathers estranged from children, impotent husbands, friends torn apart by betrayal - to sow the seeds of anguish and reminiscence.

Choose a flabby-bellied two hours rather than a lean 93 minutes of the original to follow Mark Renton (Ewan McGregor) as he returns home to beg forgiveness from Spud (Ewen Bremner).

Choose revenge, the poison coursing through the veins of reluctant publican Sick Boy (Jonny Lee Miller) when he discovers Renton is back in town.

Choose seething rage, which drips from the tongue of psychotic jailbird Begbie (Robert Carlyle) as he finally glimpses life without bars.

Choose a detour to the familiar breathtaking vista of Corrour rail station, framed by the rounded hill of Beinn na Lap, to pay tribute to those left behind.

Choose flashes of brilliance - a darkly humorous explosion of bodily fluids, a funding pitch that describes a sauna as 'an artisanal bed and breakfast experience' - punctuated by cute visual nods to the first film.

Choose Spud as the trembling, emotional core, willing him to succeed as he struggles to sever ties to heroin and discover self-worth.

Choose a head-on collision of solemn memorial and wistful nostalgia, stoked by the words of Sick Boy's Bulgarian girlfriend, Veronika (Anjela Nedyalkova): 'Where I come from, the past is something you forget. Here, it's all you talk about.'

Choose the sinking realisation that the giddy high of the first time you watched Trainspotting - that breathless sprint down Princes Street to Iggy Pop's Lust For Life, the headfirst plunge into the worst toilet in Scotland, the needle drop of Underworld's Born Slippy - isn't going to be replicated.

Choose to stop being a tourist in the rose-tinted glow of that glorious past that became a cultural phenomenon.

Choose T2 Trainspotting, with reservation.
Musician and Enniskerry resident Chris de Burgh has sold the former Aravon School in Rathmichael to another private school trust.

John Scottus School is to move from Donnybrook to Shankill shortly, saying that it has been searching for a more suitable campus for a number of years.

The John Scottus Education Trust has purchased the 14-acre campus of Old Conna House on Ferndale Road, Rathmichael.

Previously home to Aravon school, the site was purchased from musician Chris de Burgh, a long time patron to, and past pupil of, Aravon.

'Mr de Burgh has been committed to the estate remaining in educational use and to this end he has been working closely with Emma and Arthur Godsil of Godsil Education to achieve this goal,' said the school in a statement.

They said that the new building will have double the space of their current school buildings on Morehampton Road. It has over 25 classrooms, administration accommodation, and 14 acres of forest and parklands.

There is also an all weather pitch and an outdoor swimming pool on site.

'The possibility of being able to offer a John Scottus education in such a spacious, magnificent, idyllic campus is a dream come true,' said principal of the secondary school Dr Declan Kelly. 'In addition to our students receiving excellent academic, emotional and spiritual nourishment, this move will now give access to fantastic facilities and space. We have been searching for suitable campus to call home for a long time and now that we have found it, we can't wait to put the school's motto "Laetus Impraesens - Delight in the Present" over its door and open up to our students, parents and our new local community.'

Professor Brendan Tangney, Chair of the John Scottus Education Trust said 'This is a huge opportunity for John Scottus to expand and grow in the longer term. The site at Old Conna is incredible and will provide the resources, facilities and environment that will enrich the lives of our students and our wider community. We look forward to opening our doors to students and our new neighbours in the area.'

The secondary school will move in August while the primary school remains in Dublin 4. The existing Montessori school on the Old Conna site will remain in operation and a new junior school in Old Conna will receive Junior Infants from September 2017.
Pat Killilea, Cathaoirleach of Greystones and District Credit Union, and Malachai Duddy, Cathaoirleach of Bray and District Credit Union

Bray and Greystones Credit Unions will not merge, after Greystones members voted against the move.

While Bray voted in favour of the merger at last Thursday night's AGM, the move cannot proceed without the agreement of Greystones members.

In a joint statement released in December, the credit unions announced their plans. The AGMs were both held last Thursday evening at the same time, in the Royal Hotel in Bray and St David's Greystones respectively.

This meant that people who are members of both organisations could not attend both AGMs.

Members heard that this was advised by the regulator so that one meeting could not influence the other.

The vote in Greystones was 195 against and 20 in favour. The vote in Bray was 283 in favour, 19 against.

Former Greystones Mayor Kathleen Kelleher, who was present at the Greystones AGM, said that it was a respectful and courteous meeting.

Members were told that improvements would include mortgage loans, debit cards, and online banking, however they were not interested.

It was proposed that the meeting be deferred for an EGM, for the pros and cons to be discussed fully. However, members decided to proceed to the vote.

Members at the AGM praised the members of the board, whom they said work very hard in a voluntary capacity.

They acknowledged that the proposal was done in good faith, Ms Kelleher said, 'but in general they felt that there was nothing to be gained by them in joining Bray.'

She said that one member said the Greystones Credit Union would be 'doomed' if the merger was approved.

Members were concerned that the Kilcoole and Newtown branches would be at risk of closing in possible future voting situations, where they would be outnumbered by Bray members.

'Both Bray and Greystones & District Credit Unions are mindful of ensuring the long-term provision of services for their members and community,' said the Credit Unions in their statement last year, explaining their reasons for the proposed merge.

They said that the merger would deliver more sustainable credit union services for members.

'Greystones & District Credit Union held its AGM in St David's Greystones on Thursday 19 January. A significant resolution was presented by Chairperson Pat Killilea to the over 200 members in attendance, the proposed merging of the Credit Union with that of Bray,' said the body in a statement.

'This proposal was the result of months of work by the staff and Board of the Credit Union, in collaboration with their counterparts in Bray.

'A number of members, including founding members and past Directors, contributed their views to the constructive and positive discussion that took place at the meeting. In the end, the members of Greystones & District Credit Union voted overwhelmingly against the proposed merger, citing, in particular, concerns about the continued operation of the important offices in Kilcoole and NewtownmountKennedy.

'However, Greystones & District Credit Union's current strong performance was also stated as a key reason to maintain the existing Credit Union. The members also formally expressed their gratitude and appreciation for the hard work of the board in their efforts to strengthen the Credit Union.'

Bray Credit Union CEO Bernie Robinson said 'On behalf of the board, volunteers, management and staff, I would like to thank all our members who came out to vote in favour of a proposed merger with Greystones and name change.'
A west Wicklow man jailed for falsely imprisoning an 11-year-old girl he 'lifted' from a green area next to her hall door has moved to appeal against the severity of his 17-year sentence.

Michael Martin (37), who was living in Waterford City when the incident occurred but is originally from Grangecon, had pleaded guilty to false imprisonment of the girl along the roadside near Oldtown, Cullohill, Co Laois on March 4 last.

On November 5, 2015, Judge Keenan Johnson sentenced Martin at Portloaise Circuit Criminal Court to 17 years' imprisonment with the final four suspended.

Last Friday, Martin moved to appeal his sentence on a number of grounds including the 'overly punitive' nature of the sentence, in the words of his barrister, Kevin White BL.

Mr White submitted to the Court of Appeal that the sentence was entirely disproportionate to the circumstances of the case and at was variance with comparative cases.

A further ground was the 'protective' nature of the sentence and the emphasis the court placed on the need to protect society, Mr White submitted.

The sentencing judge remarked that he would have imposed a life sentence on Martin but that measure was not available to him, Mr White said.

Counsel further submitted that the sentencing judge erred in holding that Martin failed to fully cooperate with the gardai.

Finally, Mr White said the trial judge placed too much emphasis on the aggravating factors rather than focusing fairly on the mitigating factors.

Mr White said Martin had 92 previous convictions, the vast majority of which related to thefts and burglary, and only two were of relevance.

He said Martin was given 12 months for sexual assault in 2000.

Martin was subsequently involved in an 'abduction case' when a 14-year-old girl travelled to Belfast with him. Martin, who was 25 years old at the time, remained in telephone contact with the girls parents during the incident and handed himself in, Mr White said. He was jailed for two years.

Counsel for the Director of Public Prosecutions, John William Fennelly BL, said the appropriate sentence was adopted.

Mr Fennelly said it was a serious case and there were 'red flags' in Martin's prior record and in a psychological report.

It was a case of a very young child being lifted from a green area next to her hall door. He said the court had to have regard to the vulnerability of young children in cases such as that.

Mr Fennelly said Martin had a 'very bad record' and was as culpable for the crime as anybody else would have been having regard to what the court heard was 'intellectual challenges'.

He said a letter of apology on the day of the trial might not be as mitigating as other forms of remorse might be.

Reserving judgment, Mr Justice George Birmingham, who sat with Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan and Mr Justice Alan Mahon, said the case was of 'enormous seriousness'.
Two army officers and two soldiers were killed by a roadside bomb during a security operation in northern and central Sinai that killed 20 militants, Egypts army spokesman said Saturday on his Facebook's official page.

Twenty-four militants were arrested and 28 militant hideouts and 11 vehicles were destroyed in North Sinai during the five-day military operation, meanwhile, in central Sinai, 12 militants were arrested.

The army also destroyed two explosives caches and two workshops for manufacturing explosive devices.

Five explosive devices were defused in central Sinai.

Egypts army and police forces have been waging a war over the past three years against an Islamist militant insurgency in North Sinai. Hundreds of security personnel and militants have been killed in the violence.

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Nine lambs were killed after a dog attack on a farm in Roundwood, leading to further calls for owners to ensure their pets are under control at all times.

The gruesome discovery was made on Sunday and looks likely to have occurred in the early hours of the morning.

No dogs were seen carrying out the attacks but injuries to the dead lambs indicate that more than one dog was involved.

A recent attack at the Featherbeds resulted in the loss of two ewes. Tracks in the snow indicated that a dog had chased the sheep a short distance before catching them and inflicting horrific injuries. Footprints close by also indicated that someone was in the area at the time, possibly to remove the dogs.

Following this latest incident, Cllr Shay Cullen has warned dog owners that they need to take responsibility for their pets.

'This is a time of year when sheep farmers are very concerned about their flocks because lambing season is fast approaching.

'Flocks have to be protected and pet owners should know where their dogs are at all times, even at night, and especially when you live in a rural area close to farms where sheep flocks are situated,' said Cllr Cullen.

Gardai are also investigating the attack. A Garda spokesperson said that 'owners should ensure their dogs are under control at all times and that they are secure at night time and won't be allowed to roam at will.'
Instructor Willy Rochford with Manus Corduff, instructor Doug Harrington and Eoghan Coogan in the catering kitchen

Rebecca Flynn, Paddy Meehan, Eoin OConnor and Niall OHara rehearsing for Chekovs Three Sisters, which will be performed at the Mermaid Arts Centre in March

Bray Institute of Further Education held its open day last Friday, with prospective students learning about everything from music production to animal science.

There were over 40 workshops, presentations and demonstrations held throughout the day. Anyone visiting the open day could get information on all of the courses available at BIFE.

The day was a guideline to help people chose the course that is the most suitable one for their career path.

College staff with specialist industry experience were there to discuss course content and progression routes available to students.

Performing arts and music performance students did live drama and music, while the second year music production students showed their installation 'Singing Bowls'. Visitors also enjoyed cookery demonstration, dance workshops and much more.
Scoil Mhuire was delighted to welcome Sharon Lynch from Chernobyl Children International recently to speak to students about the organisation and its wonderful work.

Accompanying Sharon were Tasha and Luda from Belarus. Sharon's talk was both informative and thought-provoking, and Ciaran Osei presented her with a cheque from the school prior to the visitors' departure.

Meanwhile, ten female TY students from Scoil Mhuire Kanturk spent an exciting week attending I WISH 2017 at CIT last week.

I WISH is an initiative to inspire, encourage and motivate young secondary school female students to pursue careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics). I Wish (inspiring women in STEM ) 2017 featured a conference and interactive exhibitions. The conference consisted of workshops, daily keynote and engaging talks by women who are at the top of their field in STEM.

The showcase event combined talks and interaction with female role models with interactive exhibition spaces where companies engaged with the students directly with experiments and demonstrations of what they actually do. The Scoil Mhuire students who attended CIT for the week were Lisa Finn, Niamh Linehan, Orla Gillespie, Marcella O'Connor, Ella O'Rourke, Ciara O'Sullivan, Caitlyn Heffernan, Marie O'Neill, Atene Aidukeviciute and Caoimhe Quinlan.

11 A's for Scoil Mhuire student

Well done to Scoil Mhuire student Lisa Finn from Dromina on achieving 11 A's in her Junior Cert.

A subject recheck means Lisa's A count goes up to a staggering 11 A's; all subjects were taken at higher level. Congratulations to Lisa on her amazing achievement.

Now in Transition Year, Lisa has had a hectic couple of weeks participating in the BT Young Scientist at the RDS and participating in the I WISH STEM 2017 at CIT.
Members of Charleville Heritage Society were among the 300 strong attendance from all over County Cork, who were at County Hall on Monday night for the presentation of commemorative certificates to the communities who participated in and organised the 1916 ceremonies throughout the Cork County.

The attendance was welcomed by Cork County Council Heritage Officer Conor Nelligan who was responsible for the organisation of the evening and was also the co-ordinator of all the events in the county throughout 2016.

Mr. Nelligan thanked everybody present for their participation in the 1916 ceremonies, which, he said, was a defining year in the history of Ireland.

The Mayor of County Cork, Cllr. Seamus McGrath, said 2016 was a year that would be remembered by generations that literally each and every community had done their bit to ensure that the defining year of 1916 would be remembered with pride in their locality.

Cllr. Frank O'Flynn, the chairman of the council's all-party 1916 centenary commemorative committee said, "We have witnessed a tremendous year in the County of Cork with over 500 centenary themed events organised by 200 community groups, which is unrivalled anywhere else in the country.

"The county of Cork can feel extremely proud of the role it played in remembering all the men and women, and, in particular, those who made ultimate sacrifice in giving us the Ireland we love and cherish today."

He thanked his fellow members on the committee for their assistance and co-operation, the CEO, Tim Lucey and Heritage Officer Conor Nelligan and his assistants, Martin Mellerick and David Foley for their huge input over the year.

Cllr Ian Doyle, chairman of Charleville Heritage Society was on hand to accept the commemorative certificate from Conor Nelligan to mark the Charleville involvement in the 1916 commemoration, which was on Sunday the 17th April last year.
The family of a 45 year old Corkman who was killed in a tree felling accident over four years ago has been awarded over 800,000 in damages after the local authority withdrew a partial defence of contributory negligence and accepted full liability for the accident.

Yvonne O'Donovan brought the High Court action against Cork County Council over the death of her husband and father of three, Michael O'Donovan from Killeenleigh, Aghabullogue, who was fatally injured during tree clearing work at Arderrig, Carr's Hill, Co Cork on November 23, 2012.

Last week at the High Court sitting in Cork, Mr Justice Robert Egar approved a settlement of almost 810,000 for Mrs O'Donovan as he extended his condolences to her and her three children on the loss of her husband and their father in the workplace accident.

Cork County Council had initially argued there had been contributory negligence by Mr O'Donovan which led to criticism by Ms O'Donovan's counsel, Dr John O'Mahony SC who pointed out that the council had previously pleaded guilty in a criminal court to a breach of health and safety laws.

Following legal discussions, Cork County Council withdrew the partial defence of contributory negligence and Mr Justice Egar ruled on the quantum that was to be paid in settlement to Mrs O'Donovan on her family after hearing details of her husband's earnings.

He noted that Dr O'Mahony SC had alleged in his opening that Cork County Council had failed to notify her of the fatal accident which claimed her husband's life but he accepted evidence from the council that showed efforts had been made to contact her about the tragedy.

Mr Justice Egar said he was satisfied from documentary evidence submitted by counsel for Cork County Council, Fergus O'Hagan SC that council official Kevin Walsh had rung both Mrs O'Donovan's home and a gaelscoil to notify her but both calls rang out and he was unable to contact her.

He approved a settlement of 784,598 in special damages based on actuarial evidence on Mr O'Donovan's earnings while he also approved an additional 25,000 solatium, or damages for pain and suffering to bring the overall settlement to 809,598.

Mr Justice Egar had earlier heard Dr O'Mahony SC tell how Mr O'Donovan was fatally injured as he was working as part of a county council team engaged in the felling of a Scots Pine tree at Arderrig, Carr's Hill on November 23rd 2012.

"The felling was careless and reckless. The tree fell in a manner that should have been foreseen. It fell on a cable on a phone line that caused the poll to crack at two points. The pole struck the late Mr O'Donovan on the head causing massive injuries," said Dr O'Mahony SC.

"He was effectively killed outright at the scene albeit that resuscitative care was provided at the scene. He was clearly in extremis. It was a hopeless case. The late Mr O'Donovan died that day in hospital.

"The system of work was entirely unsafe. He was within 11 feet of the tree which was felled - a most dangerous hazard. He should have been a minimum of 100 feet away. Unfortunately the inevitable happened, the tree fell on the cable cracking the pole and the pole came down on Mr O'Donovan."

The court heard that Cork County Council was fined 48,000 by Judge Sean O Donnabhain at Cork Circuit Criminal Court in February 2016 after it pleaded guilty to a breach of health and safety regulations following Mr O'Donovan's death.

A month later, in March 2016, a jury at Cork City Coroner's Court returned a verdict of accidental death at the inquest into Mr O'Donovan's death and recommended the introduction of statutory guidelines on the felling of trees similar to those in operation in the UK.

These statutory guidelines include imposing an exclusion zone twice the length of the tree, the use of tree felling equipment including winches, ropes and a felling bar as well as full training of all staff involved in the operation to control or reduce risk.

The inquest heard that Mr O'Donovan was working with another council employee, foreman John Sexton, in clearing debris from trees that were being felled by another man, Pat Buttimer, who was working for a contractor hired by the council to clear a way leave over a water pipe to Ringaskiddy.

Mr Buttimer told the inquest that he had cut a notch in a sally tree and then used his back arm, or actor, of a Terex digger to put some pressure on the tree so that it would fall in the right direction but because it was near the road he had to put the back actor pressure on the tree from an angle.

He said that Mr O'Donovan was standing at the front of the digger and he didn't believe the tree could fall in his direction as the bucket of the digger was up against it. However, while cutting the tree he felt pressure on the tip of the chain saw and realised the tree was starting to twist.

"I saw Michael out of the corner of my eye. He was standing outside the fence looking down at the tree stump. He was not in a position where he would have been protected by the digger. After the tree fell I heard John Sexton shout that Michael was on the ground," he said.

Mr Sexton told the inquest that when he saw the tree starting to twist he shouted at least three times to Mr O'Donovan to run out of the way but he couldn't hear him because of the noise from both the chainsaw and the Terex digger.

"The tree fell on the telephone cable and the pole snapped. The next thing I saw was that Michael was on the ground and he was bleeding," said Mr Sexton, adding that Mr O'Donovan, who wasn't wearing his helmet, had "got a bang on the head from the telegraph pole and part of it was lying by him".

Cork County Council Senior Executive Engineer Pat Murphy said that since Mr O'Donovan's death the council has introduced changes so no member of Cork County Council staff is involved in tree felling and they have introduced UK statutory guidelines on tree felling for all contractors.
Anyone who fancies an evening of champagne, strawberries and chocolate should read on. The famed chef, Rachel Allen will give a cookery demonstration in aid of Churchtown NS at the Charleville Park Hotel on Thursday, February 2.

A good idea is to also visit their artisan food and craft fair just before the cookery demonstration which will start at 6.30pm.

Tickets cost 25 and are available online at www.eventbrite.ie , and from the Charleville Park Hotel and the Oriel Charleville and Churchtown NS on 022 23656.
Cork North West TD Michael Moynihan has said he had serious concerns about the government's action plan for rural Ireland describing it as "too little, too late."

"If I was to sum up how I feel about the plan, I would say underwhelmed. I wanted to see a forward looking, imaginative strategy to invigorate rural communities I counties like Cork," said Deputy Moynihan.

"Instead, we have a piecemeal rehash of previously released press releases and announcements. Fine Gael have not learned that spin doesn't bring jobs to rural towns, spin doesn't keep post offices, schools and GP surgeries open, and spin certainly doesn't entice young people to stay in north Cork to work, raise a family and energise their communities," he fumed.

He said that rural Ireland was facing major challenges, with communities across the country asking what kind of a future they have.

"This is the fourth 'rural plan' launched by Fine Gael while in government. The CEDRA report, the Rural Charter and commitments in the Programme for Government have all failed to deliver revealing a systematic failure in rural policy," said Deputy Moynihan.

He said that Rural Ireland was in desperate need of a strategic plan that would allow it to achieve its full potential.

"The governments latest initiative for rural Ireland is pitiful. It lacks strategic vision, serves only to underpin the gross neglect of rural Ireland and is not enough to roll back the damage caused by Fine Gael's recent strategy of a two-tier recovery that left rural Ireland behind," said Deputy Moynihan.

"It's time for Fine Gael to start paying attention to people living in Ireland instead of simply paying lip-service to the issues that affect them," he added.
Egypts President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi announced on Saturday a number of government decisions including the establishment of an authority for the development of Upper Egypt, which is tasked with creating jobs and maintaining Nubian monuments, with investments of up to EGP 5 billion.

During the closing session of the second monthly youth conference in Aswan, the Egyptian president announced the launching of a national project to create several industrial zones for micro and small industries, as well as the establishment of 200 small factories in all Upper Egyptian governorates over the next six months.

El-Sisi also announced the expanding of the Takaful and Karama social safety programme in Upper Egypt to include creating employment for the offspring of families eligible for the programme.

The social solidarity ministrys Takaful and Karama programme, established by the government in early 2015, is a national social safety net programme aimed at protecting the poor through income support.

El-Sisi said the government aims to make Aswan the capital of the African economy and culture as well as review the possibility of compensating those who were negatively affected by the building of the High Dam in the 1960s.

I appreciate Egyptians sacrifices and resilience in achieving development, especially in Upper Egypt, El-Sisi said in a speech during the conference, adding that he has absolute confidence in the Egyptian people and the residents of Upper Egypts capabilities to build their nation.

El-Sisi added that he instructed the government to take measures to improve the quality of living for Upper Egyptians, highlighting the efforts to develop the area.

In 2014, we launched a project to reduce poverty and raise living standards in the governorates of Assiut, Sohag and Qena by granting loans for low income families for the implementation of small and micro-projects that has now reached EGP 147 million, El-Sisi said.

In Upper Egypt, 238 projects were launched to develop 3,258 school classes, with 179 new classes built through an Egyptian-Japanese joint programme.

The Takaful and Karama programme covers more than 1,700 villages in Upper Egypt, El-Sisi said.

The program allocates 82 percent of its funding for Upper Egyptian governorates, with a total of about 1.1 million households, and has increased funding for food in schools to cover more than 9,400 schools at a cost of EGP 850 million in the academic year 2016-2017.

In the area of electricity and energy projects, a power plant with a capacity of 4,000 MW has been establishing in Beni Suef governorate with a total investment of 2 billion euros.

In Assiut, a power station with a total capacity of a 1,000 MW has been built at the cost of $746 million.

The two-day youth conference, taking place in the southern city of Aswan, brought together 1,300 young people from Upper Egyptian governorates, and is being held in one of the city's hotels amid tight security measures.

The conference was attended by a number of MPs and ministers.

The decision to hold regular youth conferences was made at the first annual National Youth Conference in October, when over 3,000 young people from a number of the country's universities and political parties attended the National Youth Conference in the Sinai resort city of Sharm El-Sheikh.

The first monthly follow-up conference was held in December.

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St Mary's Parish are holding a charity concert in St Mary's Church James' Street on Thursday February 2nd at 7.30pm.

Proceeds will go to Fr Eamon Sheridan from Old Hill as he takes up his appointment to Burma later in February and the concert will feature the Drogheda Male Voice Choir, Mornington Gospel Choir, St Mary's Youth Choir, Amie Dyer among others, under the guidance of Mr David Leddy.

First Responder course classes

Would you like to Volunteer & support the work the East Meath Cardiac First Responder Unit do in the community attending 999 calls from Ambulance Control. Maybe you just want to learn CPR & know how to use the External Defibrillators installed around the community. If so the EMCRU have course dates for 2017. Places book up fast so please contact Mark: 087-6333086 or Jim: 086-1962636. February 19th 2017, April 9th 2017, May 21st 2017.

Research your past with the Old Drogheda Society

The Old Drogheda Society is hosting an "Introduction to Community and Genealogy/Family Research,' presented by Community Historian Brendan Matthews and Emmett Doran.

The course starts on Saturday February 4th and will run every Saturday morning from 10.30am - 12.30pm for six weeks finishing Saturday March 11th.

The course is aimed at those with an interest in finding out more about Community History and carrying out Family History Research; where their family came from and how, where and when they lived in the past.

The course will be held each Saturday morning in the Governors House at the Drogheda Museum at Millmount.

Course fee is 70 with reductions of 10 for Senior Citizens, Old Drogheda Society Members,CE Scheme participants and unemployed. There are limited places, advance booking is essential.

Further enquiries and bookings to the Drogheda Museum Millmount. Tel. 041-9833097. E mail info@droghedamuseum.ie
Gerry Buckley will call time on his 30 years with Drogheda Corporation/Borough Council and Municipal Council this week - when he retires for the second time!

Gerry was supposed to leave last year but was retained for a short spell.

A most popular and efficient member of the council maintenance team, he has worked in a number of sectors within the council. including a spell on the 'Green Machine'.

A native of Marian Park and married to Catherine, with three children, Alan, Fiona and Margaret, his father was Paddy Buckley, the famed West Street chemist who retired at the age of 83.

Gerry, a big pool player in his younger days, also had a great career in the bar trade and worked in the likes of The Thatch, Horse and Hound, the Windmill Bar and also spent a period in Platin.
Meath County Council have expressed reservations about adding more bins in the Bettystown area - due to the fact that people are dumping household rubbish in them.

Councillors raised the matter of litter at their monthly meeting in Duleek, stating that more bins were required in the area.

But council officials warned that there was an increase in the amount of domestic waste being dumped in the bins, thus creating more litter.

It also leads to the bins having to be cleaned more regularly.

They added that they were aware of dumping incidents at the likes of the former Village Hotel site and the litter warden had attended to inspect it, in the hope of catching the culprits.
Single young women (20-40) who are interested in learning about Monastic life as lived by Dominican Nuns are invited to a Time of Prayer & Reflection at the Siena Monastery, The Twenties, from Friday 10th - Sunday 12th March.(Friday afternoon until Sunday after lunch)

There will be Liturgy - Eucharistic Adoration - Talks -Sisters' testimonies - Lectio Divina -Question time - Food and Fellowship. Those who cannot manage a full weekend are welcome to come along on Saturday 9.30am until 7.00 pm. (Early booking advisable as places are limited)

Meals AGM

Duleek Meals on Wheels AGM will be held on Thursday 26th January at 8pm in the prayer rooms. All volunteer cooks and drivers are asked to attend. Everyone welcome. Volunteers are always needed.
SOSAD and the Augustinian Community will combine again to host the annual SOSAD Mass for all victims of suicide on Sunday 5th February at 1.15pm.

The Mass is a very special occasion for all those that attend and will be celebrated by Fr David Crean. The music is always a huge part of the Mass and this year they are very privileged to have Eimear King, Amie Dyer and Hannah O'Brien supported by Michael Holohan singing classical pieces to fit the occasion.

Taking part in the Mass will be the Deputy Mayor of Drogheda, Pio Smith, local Garda Superintendent Andrew Watters, members of the municipal council, representatives from SOSAD, the Samaritans, The Ambulance Service, Drogheda Coastguard, St John's Ambulance Service, Townley's funeral directors and some young people from the 14th Louth, St Martin's scouts.

Remember if you are feeling suicidal or depressed, please take the first step and talk to someone. You might be very surprised at how this can help. You can call your GP or medical professional and SOSAD is available 24 hours a day, every day of the week. Their number is 041 9848754.

Alzheimer concert

The Holy Family Church in Ballsgrove will be the novel venue for a special concert next month.

The No. 1 Army Band will be performing at the church on Friday, February 10.

And a strong supporting bill will also feature star vocalist, Amie Dyer and the Holy Family youth choir.

The concert is in aid of the Drogheda branch of the Alzheimer Society which is raising funds for a new day care centre.

Tickets are priced at 10 each and children under-14 are admitted free.

Duleek Credit Union AGM

Duleek Credit Union will hold their AGM on Wednesday 25th January at 8pm in the credit union's boardroom. All members are welcome.
A cleaner who betrayed the trust of a family by stealing nearly 6,000 worth of sentimental jewellery from their home has been given a six months suspended sentence.

Janine Johnson (34) has also been placed on a Probation Bond for 12 months in what Judge Flann Brennan described as 'a very serious matter.'

'Money alone will not compensate for the personal items involved which had memory and sentiment,' Judge Brennan said at Drogheda District Court.

Johnson was working as a house cleaner for a family in Termonfeckin when the family noticed a lot of jewellery had gone missing.

CCTV footage later showed Johnson taking money and a passport from a black bag which was inside the home.

She was arrested and admitted stealing 100 in cash, the passport and subsequently admitted stealing 5,600 worth of jewellery which she said she sold on for cash, the court heard.

Johnson, of Orchard Villas, Termonfeckin pleaded guilty to the theft of 5,600 worth of jewellery on dates unknown in 2015.

It had been alleged a substantial amount of jewellery was taken but Johnson, who has no previous convictions, admitted to taking 5,600 worth.

Defence solicitor Dermot Monahan said Johnson, who has four children, put a pen to paper to apologise to the family.

Judge Brennan said it was a 'colossal breach of trust' and a 'very considerable amount of property involved.'
Louth political circles were saddened last week with the news of the deaths two long serving county councillors, Eddie Filgate and Jim Lennon.

The former was also a Louth TD for Fianna Fail, while the latter was also very well known in Louth GAA circles following his time as a referee and County Board Chairman.

Both men came from Louth Village and were both very well respected and regarded.

Eddie Filgate, who passed away in his 101st year, was one of three Fianna Fail candidates elected to the 21st Dail in 1977 General Election returning to Leinster House with former minister Padraig Faulkner and Joe Farrell. He was re-elected twice, at the 1981 and the February 1982 general elections, but didn't contest the November 1982 general election.

One of 11 children, he lived in his native village of Louth, next to the site of the house he grew up in. He is survived by his wife Eilish and children Philomena, Ursula, Eamon, and Joan, sons-in-law, daughter-in-law, grandchildren, great-granddaughter, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends. He was predecesed by his son Anthony.

Fianna Fail TD for Louth and East Meath Declan Breathnach paid tribute to the late Eddie Filgate , saying: 'I had the privilege of working closely with Eddie during his Council and Dail election campaigns. He was a dedicated public representative who was proud to work on behalf of community's right across Louth. I had the opportunity to attend his 101st birthday last September and he retained a keen interest in local affairs and national politics.'

'His first election in 1977 represented Fianna Fail's greatest success in Louth and this is something which he was always proud of. The double 'F' was the traditional logo for Fianna Fail at that time, but it was the triple 'F' logo which many will remember in Louth during the 1977 election when Filgate, Faulkner and Farrell ran an incredible campaign. Fianna Fail returned three seats out of a total of four during that election.

'In his early days he was a Sales Manager for Cement Roadstone in North Dublin and worked closely with Charlie Haughey. He was a great historian and was happy to recount stories from years gone by.

'Eddie will be sadly missed by all that knew him. I would like to offer my sympathies personally and on behalf of the Fianna Fail party to Eddie's family.

'Fianna Fail Leader Micheal Martin added, "Eddie is fondly remembered by all that worked with him in both the Oireachtas and on the ground in County Louth.

'Fellow Louth village resident Jim Lennon had also served on Louth County Council. He was co-opted onto the local authority after the death of his brother Joe in 1990 During that time he served as chairman from 2006/7. He was also widely known in GAA circles as a referee and County Board Chairman,

He was predeceased by his parents Joseph and Susan and siblings Joe, Patricia, Winnie and Maeve. He is survived by his sister Ita McKeown.

Fianna Fail TD for Louth and East Meath Declan Breathnach has expressed his sympathy at the passing of former Councillor Jim.

'Jim was co-opted on to the Council in 1990 after the death of his late brother Joe Lennon,' he recalled, 'He won his first Council Election in 1991 the same year as myself. We were both in the same electoral area for more than 10 years until the new boundaries were introduced.'

'We would have worked very closely together despite our party differences. It was always a pleasure to work with Jim and he always had the interests of his community at heart. He also served as Chairman of the Council from 2006-2007.'

Ardee Municipal cathaoirleach Dolores Minogue expressed her sympathy on the death of Jim, stating he had worked very hard for the people during his career.
A Meath councillor has branded as 'disgraceful' a comment by the cathaoirleach of the Laytown/Bettystown district council in relation to pollution at Bettystown beach.

During a report from the Local Authorities Waters and Communities Office - aimed at securing more community involvement in cleaning up rivers and beaches - Cllr Tom Kelly said that the local beach had to be closed twice 'due to agricultural run off' - adding that sludge spreading was not being properly monitored.

However, Cllr Paddy Meade said there was no evidence to say that it was an agricultural issue that caused the problems on the beach.

'You have blackened the agricultural sector and blackened the farmers of East Meath,' he contined. 'It's a disgraceful remark.'

Cllr Kelly replied, 'it was not. The report said it was probably agricultural run off. If we say it's not, are Meath County Council or the EPA not doing their job right?'

Speaking at the meeting, Aoife McGrath from the LAWCO said the aim was to get communities as 'champions of the rivers' and the likes of the Nanny was described as being 'moderately polluted' due to agriculture, urban waste and domestic run off.

'We need to improve the water system,' she stated.

She hopes to meet all those with an interest in the water system in East Meath, anglers to wildlife and recreation groups.

One idea was to appoint 'river watchdogs' on the Nanny.

Councillors felt the concept was a good one, Cllr Eimear Ferguson feeling that agricultural run was an issue. Bio-solids had been spread last year and she wanted it checked to see if this was a cause of concern.

Cllr Sharon Keogan said insurance had put off many groups from helping with such schemes.
Floral tributes at the scene of the accident at Hunterstown

Tragic Hunterstown road traffic victims Josie Duff and Kathy McDonald were laid to rest amidst a veil of sadness that has descended on the wider Ardee community in recent days.

The cousins and lifelong friends died following an accident as they got off a bus last Monday week.

Saturday's joint funeral mass saw over 1,000 people gather in a show of solidarity that captured the essence of traditional Ardee life.

As Finlays' two hearses drove side by side down the Drogheda Road towards the Church of the Nativity, a town stopped.

The Ardee Business group had requested members turn off lights as the church bell struck 11am.

Gardai standing on duty brought traffic to a standstill and in emotional scenes members of the wheelchair association waited in line in tribute to founder member Josie, such a driving force for them down the years.

Canon Peter Murphy spoke of the 'grief and sadness' shared by all after such a tragic accident, describing Josie and Kathy as 'two great ladies' who always showed great kindness. He added they were very stylish and were regular faces in the church.

The likes of the hospice movement and the wheelchair association would miss them while they had very fond memories of just a few weeks ago when they attended the Ferdia ladies group Christmas party in the Valley Inn.

The fact that the women were so much a part of the community left a lot of people sad, but to their families the loss was huge, 'they meant the world to their families', Fr Murphy added.

The music on the day was stunning, including international performing star Mary Duff.

Family members thanked the members of the emergency services for all they did on the night of the accident and prayed for them. They also said they appreciated the wonderful support of the community that had kept them going at a difficult time.

Josie Duff (nee Reilly), is survived by husband John and loving children Peter, Mary, Kevin, Loretta and Fiona, grandchildren Ailish, Kira, Adele, Elaine, Aidan, Owen, Conor, Caroline, Bryan, Hazel and Jack, great-grandchildren Harry, Keelyn and Sam and other relatives.

Kathy McDonald (nee Carpenter), was predeceased by her husband Seamus and is sadly missed by her sons Dwayne and Karl and her daughter Alison, grandchildren Fricra, Katie, Laura, Caoimhe, Bronach, Erin, Finn and Rhen, sisters Sheila, Mary and Ann, brother Paddy, daughters-in-law Marcella and Adele, son-in-law Derek, and other relatives.

As the ceremony ended and Fr John O'Leary sprinkled holy water on both coffins, the song 'Somewhere over the Rainbow, echoed around the church.

'Someday I'll wish upon a star

Wake up where the clouds are far behind me

Where trouble melts like lemon drops

High above the chimney top

That's where you'll find me...'
About 40 mostly high-ranking Turkish soldiers who worked at NATO facilities in Germany but were suspended after the failed coup in Turkey in July have requested asylum in Germany, news magazine Der Spiegel and broadcaster ARD reported on Saturday.

No comment was immediately available from the government or NATO officials.

The reports of the asylum applications filed by Turkish soldiers in Germany came as Chancellor Angela Merkel prepares to travel to Turkey to meet President Tayyip Erdogan.

Ties between the two NATO partners have been strained over issues including alleged spying by Turkish clerics in Germany, German concerns about Turkey's crackdown on dissidents, and Ankara's accusation that Berlin is harbouring militants from the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) and far-leftists of the DHKP-C.

The report quoted officials with German federal migration office and the interior ministry as saying that the asylum applications would be handled as all others.

Norbert Roettgen, head of the parliamentary foreign affairs committee, told Spiegel that political considerations could not play a role in asylum cases.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told a conference in November that some Turkish military officers posted to NATO in Europe had requested asylum but gave no specific numbers.

Reuters reported in October that Turkey had fired hundreds of senior military staff serving at NATO in Europe and the United States after the coup. Most were recalled to Turkey, but some chose not to return, fearing reprisals.

Greece's Supreme Court this week ruled against the extradition of eight Turkish soldiers who fled to Greece in July after the abortive coup.

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The Drogheda Rotary Club has come to the rescue of the Drogheda branch of the Alzheimer Society thanks to a 10,000 donation towards a new ambulance for the service.

The society has been struggling for transport since their ambulance packed up, but the rotary president Julian Grant says he hopes the money would help the branch to secure another vehicle.

''We had some funds to use and had been looking around for a good cause, '' said Mr Grant. ''We know the incredible work being done by the Alzheimer Society locally and we know how well this money will be used.'

The Alzheimer branch's fund-raising chairperson, Ann Shortt, said they were lost for words at the generosity shown by the Rotary Club.

''We really want to thank Mr Grant and the Rotary membership for their wonderful gesture, '' she said. ''This means so much to us and gives us all a tremendous lift as we try to secure a replacement ambulance.'

The ambulance which has been used by the branch for some years has been in a gradual state of disrepair.

And two weeks ago the inevitable happened -- it broke down completely and is beyond repair.

The branch appealed for help and the rotary responded.

''We have been repairing the ambulance for a long time but we have simply been throwing good money after bad in doing so, '' said Ms Shortt. They badly need a replacement vehicle to bring clients to and from the day care centre on the Donore Road.
A new steering group will oversee the development of two plans for the Enniscorthy district which should transform the area.

At last Monday's meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District Ger Mackey of Wexford County Council told the members that a stipulation of the Local Economic and Community Plan for the county was to develop a community action plan for Enniscorthy town.

He said its objective is to 'coordinate community development in the town by avoiding duplication and fragmentation as well as bringing community groups and agencies together'.

Mr Mackey said that 'while the focus of the plan is on social inclusion' the plan will be mindful of the development of the Enniscorthy bypass and the flood defence scheme. He said the council will contribute 25,000 towards the development of a plan for the town.

He said that the council working in conjunction with Carlow County Council had been awarded funding of 100,000 under the Rural Economic Development Zones (REDZ) scheme for the Bunclody Carrigduff area.

When the REDZ funding was announced late last year it was 'for the revitalisation of Bunclody and the running of festivals/events linked to tourism and artisan foods and to support speciality food producers'.

Mr Mackey said it was intended to start the plan immediately with the establishment of a steering committee to oversee both plans as well as their rollout. He told the members that the council will be looking for nominations for the group in February adding it was expected to have the plans in place by the end of June.

'The actions will be identified and the rollout of any actions to follow' on from this, he said.

District manager Liz Hore said that the council had also received funding of 36,530 last year for the development of the Enniscorthy Agri-Food tourism project. She said that it was the council's intention to coordinate all three plans together.

Cllr Barbara-Ann Murphy said the money for Bunclody was very welcome adding that both towns needed a boost.
Councillors who have any housing queries must now channel their request through a dedicated council staff member.

Speaking at last Monday's meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District director of services John Carley welcomed staff member Martina O'Donoghue to the chamber. He said that Ms O'Donoghue who is a new addition to the housing department having previously worked in water services 'will be dealing with any queries from all members including the Enniscorthy members'.

He said that all housing queries, with the exception of housing maintenance queries, should be directed to Martina who will then assign then to someone to investigate.

Ms O'Donoghue told the members that the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) scheme which has been up and running since December had received 15 applications. However she said that some of these were invalid or incomplete. 'Only a few are over the line at the minute', she said adding that most of the applications were from the New Ross district.

Ms O'Donoghue reminded the members that 6.2 million had been allocated to Enniscorthy district late last year for housing and this would result in the delivery of 40 houses for the area on Greenville Lane.

Responding to a query from Cllr Kathleen Codd-Nolan Director of Services John Carley said it will be a construction project and district manager Liz Hore said it was great that 40 families would be taken off the housing list.

She said that the council wanted to see the houses delivered as soon as possible. 'The money only came through at Christmas', she said adding that 20 per cent of the houses will be suitable for people with disabilities.

Cllr Johnny Mythen expressed concerns about the difference in rents and the HAP payments being sent back to Limerick County Council which is administering the scheme nationwide but Ms Hore said this money will be ring fenced by Limerick to support the HAP scheme in general.
The members of Enniscorthy Municipal District will be heading on a road trip soon but instead of enjoying the warmer climes of a far flung destination they will be heading to Glenbrien.

Director of Services John Carley said that the council is in the process of arranging a site visit to the Enniscorthy bypass to see the works being carried out there.

He said the council would arrange a bus to take the members in and out of Enniscorthy.

Mr Carley said that the members of the Transport Strategic Policy Committee had already enjoyed a visit to the site of the bypass.

He also said that there would be a progress report on the bypass works every six months.
Enniscorthy Municipal District is taking a firm stance on the lawn cemetery in the town.

Cllr Paddy Kavanagh expressed his concerns about some families not adhering to the rules at last Monday's meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal meeting.

Housing officer with Wexford County Council Martina O'Donoghue said that she was aware of two instances within the cemetery where the rules weren't being complied with. She said that the council had already dealt with one of the cases and they were in the process of dealing with the second.

Cllr Kavanagh said he was glad the council was addressing the matter saying 'the rules are there for everyone'.

Director of Services John Carley said 'we're taking a line on it and the rules will be administered'. Cllr Kavanagh said that 99 per cent of families were abiding by the rules and there were just a few exceptions.
A national housing conference on energy efficient homes will take place in Enniscorthy on March 2.

Enniscorthy's district manager, Liz Hore, told last Monday's meeting of the municipal district that the nZeb housing conference will take place in the Riverside Park Hotel. She said that a key focus of the conference was on Nearly Zero Energy Buildings adding that a passive housing scheme in Madeira which was built by local builder Michael Bennett will also feature at the conference.

The day long conference will be attended by upwards of 200 architects, house planners, local authority housing officers and building contractors among others and will have as its theme ' Energy Efficiency for Everyone'.

Enniscorthy Municipal Authority is planning a reception in Enniscorthy Castle for visiting delegates on the night prior to the event. Full details can be found at nZEBRA.ie.
Tributes were paid to the late Anthony Cronin at last Monday's meeting of Enniscorthy Borough District.

Leading the tributes director of services John Carley said that Mr Cronin had been a proud Enniscorthy man and a founding member of the Aosdana. He said Mr Cronin had his first article published in the Echo in 1948 while his last poem published there had been in 2016 and related to the 1916 Rising.

Mr Carley said the council is currently making arrangements to present both pieces to his family in due course.

Cllr Keith Doyle also said that Mr Cronin had penned a poem about the 1798 Rebellion as well adding he 'was a very good friend of Enniscorthy'.
Unleash that story within you and get feedback on your writing at a course in creative writing for adults at Ardgillan Castle in Balbriggan.

It starts today (Tuesday) and runs for 10 weeks from 10.30am to 12.30pm with tutor Ross Campbell promising that participants will find an exciting and fun way to learn the craft of writing hands on.

Various aspects of writing are covered on the course including short story writing, memoirs and some prose writing.

While much of it covers fiction writing there is also some non-fiction and the short story section will involve aspects such as creating characters, plotting, setting and dialogue.

'The class is relaxed and informal and is located in the sumptuous green room of the castle overlooking the parkland and we have a coffee break in the lovely tearooms downstairs,' said Ross.

'Participants are gently encouraged and the emphasis is on encouragement and building on the skills and abilities of the participants rather than criticism. It takes a lot of courage to submit work to a writers group.

'Participants who are new to a writing class may be anxious about how their work will be received. A lot of it has to do with confidence, that's why it's important to be very encouraging so as not to damage the participant's confidence. Students don't have to worry about feeling exposed to criticism of their work. Students do not read out their work to the class, it is circulated to the others by email.

'The course takes the form of a workshop. The tutor gives writing assignments each week to the class to do for the following week for discussion. Participants email their pieces to the tutor beforehand and he then circulates their pieces to all the other participants by email. This system has the big advantage that everyone will have been able to read each other's work before coming into the class to discuss it,' said Ross

'As well as discussing the students work the tutor also teaches the skills of writing. We analyze passages from well known novelists and short story writers and examine the techniques that they use in their work.'

Ross Campbell who has a BA honours in English Literature from UCD has taught creative writing classes to adults Ardgillan Castle and in VEC schools for five years and writes for newspapers and magazines.

For more details contact Ross at 085 1395 320 or Email: ros1_@hotmail.com. For further info see Ross Campbell/facebook/creative writing.
New plans for Malahide Village Green are likely to go out for public consultation in the next month as the council seeks the consent of locals for a new park design.

Cllr Eoghan O'Brien (FF) requested an update on the project and was told: 'The Part 8 documents for the improvement works for the Green, Malahide are being finalised and we anticipate that these documents will be on public display within the next month.'

Last May, the council unveiled a new plan to improve Malahide Green as a public space.

Fingal County Council engaged consultants, Murray and Associates to design the plans, taking into account the recommendations for the area that came out of Malahide's Public Realm process, two years ago which saw widespread consultation in the town on a whole range of issues around how the village should look and operate into the future.

In devising the new plan, the consultants aimed to 'provide a strong focal point and identity' for this important green space, 'reinvigorate and improve the quality of the open space', improve pedestrian connectivity through it and also provide what they called 'a cohesive pallate of materials and street furniture that can be utilised in the wider area'.

The consultants said this was the only large public open space in Malahide's centre and had a vital role to play in the community. They suggested improvements to its entrance, making it more suitable to host public events, providing a wider Marina Plaza to take advantage of the Marina views and making changes to the pathways through the green.

The plan seeks to make the area a 'destination space' within Malahide.

Cllr O'Brien welcomed news that plans will soon go on display soon.
Specsavers Balbriggan is thrilled to announce that it has raised in excess of 2,600 in aid of Our Lady's Children's Hospital, Crumlin.

The store has experienced enormous support and kindness from the local community, making this contribution possible.

The store raised the much-needed funds through in-store activities throughout 2016, including a charity Santa Claus visit the Millfield Shopping Centre with customers donating generously.

Specsavers presented Our Lady's Children's Hospital, Crumlin with a cheque for 120,000 in 2016 and announced that it would be extending its commitment to the hospital by pledging to raise an additional 100,000 for the ophthalmology unit.

The service provides care to children suffering from common eye conditions, such as squints, which if left untreated can result in sight problems. In addition, the service offers evaluation and treatment of other complex eye conditions such as congenital cataract, congenital glaucoma and visual problems associated with neurological disease.

The staff would like to thank the local community for their unwavering support, attending in-store events and donating generously to this worthy cause.
British Prime Minister Theresa May on Saturday urged Turkey to maintain the rule of law and observe its human rights obligations in the wake of the July 15 failed coup.

Speaking after talks with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, May said she was "proud" Britain had stood with Turkey's democratically-elected government when the coup struck.

"Now it is important that Turkey sustains that democracy by maintaining the rule of law and upholding its international human rights obligations, as the government has undertaken to do," she said.

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The delay in delivering the second phase of Lusk Community College that brought parents onto the streets in protest recently has been raised in the Dail by a local TD who labelled the delay a 'debacle' and said it was an 'affront' that she was forced to raise the issue once again in the Dail.

Deputy Clare Daly (Ind) told the Minister for Education, Richard Bruton: 'I have to say it is an affront I have even had to table the question, which is about phase 2 of the construction of Lusk community college. I tabled this question 18 months ago, when the construction should have been completed. Now, 18 months on, which is 30% of the educational lifetime of the students, it has not even started. I want to know the reason for the delay and when will construction be delivered.'

Explaining the delay in delivering the second phase which is yet to begin construction, despite being originally slated to be complete by now, the minister said: 'An incomplete stage 2(b) submission from the design team was received in my Department in July 2016, leading to a request for further information.

'A fully compliant stage 2(b) submission was received in September 2016. The stage 2(b) submission was approved and the project was approved to proceed to tender in October.

'However, as the pre-qualification of contractors had first been conducted by the design team in April 2015, the design team, concerned about the possibility of legal challenges, asked the Office of Government Procurement for advice on this matter. The advice was that it would be prudent to run the pre-qualification again.'

Deputy Daly said: 'I am sure the Minister appreciates the entire debacle has been a devastating blow to the community, which has waited 30 years for its own secondary school in one of the most rapidly expanding urban parts of Dublin. I wants to know who is at fault.'

In response, the minister said: 'It is my understanding the design team was appointed by the Dublin and Dun Laoghaire Education and Training Board.

'To be fair, I have seen delays occur in many school projects and the question of looking for a fault or ascribing fault is not always the route to go.

'There may have been some unanticipated problems that cropped up such as planning issues. It is not my business to try to ascribe fault.'

Deputy Daly said she was not interested in 'fault for the sake of it' but said: 'I am interested in lessons being learned and problems not reoccurring. The simple fact of the matter is that in September 2015, when the project should have been completed, I was told by the Minister's predecessor that issues were at an advanced stage awaiting tender documentation. The Minister has told me this documentation, which was handed in nine months later, in July 2016, was incomplete. How could this be and who are the design team?'

The minister concluded: 'I will ask the departmental officials to examine whether there are lessons to be learned from this experience. I just do not know that.

'Obviously, in the first instance a design team is accountable to the school, in this case the ETB. I do not know whether it was an oversight, a mistake or what it was, but I will ask officials to have a look at what was the source of delay and whether there are lessons to be learned.'
Three young entrepreneurs from Fingal are set to go head-to-head with entrepreneurs from throughout the county this week.

They will be taking part in the regional final of Ireland's Best Young Entrepreneur (IBYE) competition, which takes place on Wednesday at the Westbury Hotel in the city centre.

Local Enterprise Office Fingal will be represented Marcin Kulik, 34 of SmartTrace Software, Malahide (Best Business Idea Category); Seamus Tighe, 28 of Everest Granola Limited, Blanchardstown (Best Start-Up Business Category); and Damian O'Kelly, 30 of Nutritics Limited, Swords (Best Established Business Category).

On Wednesday, three companies, one from each category, will be selected by the judging panel to compete IBYE National Final in March.

So far, 180 talented entrepreneurs across every county in Ireland, aged between 18 and 35, have been awarded a total of 1.5 million in investment funding through the Local Enterprise Offices, after winning or becoming runners-up in IBYE County Finals.

This initiative for young entrepreneurs is run by the 31 Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) nationwide, and supported by the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation and Enterprise Ireland. The investment awards will be used by the young entrepreneurs to help fund business start-ups, create new jobs locally or to help develop new products for international markets.

As part of the supports on offer through the competition, more than 400 young entrepreneurs around the country benefited from boot-camp training sessions in which they were put through their paces in every aspect of how to start and develop a business.

Announcing details for the Regional Finals, The Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Ms. Mary Mitchell O'Connor said: 'This competition highlights that Ireland's entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well. Our young entrepreneurs are the employers of the future, and are the backbone of the Irish economy.

'This investment will help all their businesses to grow and flourish and in turn will create and support more jobs throughout every region. I look forward to meeting more of our incredible entrepreneurial talent from around the country at the next stage of the competition.'

Oisin Geoghegan, Head of Local Enterprise Office Fingal, wished local category winners the best of luck at the Regional Final.

He said: 'We see the IBYE initiative as an important springboard for our young entrepreneurs who want to start or expand a business. The 180 entrepreneurs across every county in Ireland who share 1.5 million in investment funding, which include our county winners and runners-up, can now make their business ideas and expansion plans a reality in 2017. It's also about nurturing entrepreneurs through bootcamps, training, networking and mentoring, with job creation benefits throughout the region.'
British Ambassador to Ireland, Robin Barnett CMG, (centre) with, from left, Darragh OBrien, TD, the Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Darragh Butler, Fingal County Council Chief Executive Paul Reid and Ed Hearne, Director of Economic, Enterprise and Tourism at Fingal County Council

Key industries such as agri-food, life sciences and manufacturing and technology account for approximately 2.5billion in exports from Fingal to the UK.

The critical importance of the UK to Fingal as a trading partner was clearly emphasised to UK Ambassador to Ireland Robin Barnett during his whistlestop tour of Fingal last week.

He was informed that in 2015, agri-food businesses in Fingal exported goods to the value of 280 million.

This level of activity is driven by Fingal being the producer of 47% f Ireland's field vegetables and 37% of protected fruit, vegetables and nursery plants and a strong food manufacturing sector.

The estimated value of exports in technology and related services to the UK from the county at over 900 million in 2015, while the financial services and insurance sectors accounted for a further 500m.

Fingal's recent economic performance has been driven by an exceptionally strong manufacturing sector, with a cluster of national importance in the life sciences sector.

This has driven manufacturing exports from Fingal to the UK of provisionally valued close to 500 million. The presence of Dublin airport has also made the county a hub for logistics companies and these companies exported over 630 million to the UK in 2015.

During a briefing session at County Hall. Mayor of Fingal Cllr Darragh Butler said the key message was that 'Fingal is open for business'.

'I will be working to ensure that Fingal continues to prosper and our citizens benefit from the agreements that are reached over the next few years.

'We appreciate you taking the time to come and talk to us, and also listen to us, at what is a critical time for both our countries as we prepare for Britain leaving the European Union and the Single Market

'Fingal has a significant business and enterprise base with direct links to the UK and UK markets so what is happening in terms of Brexit is obviously going to have an impact here.'

Fingal County Council chief executive Paul Reid said: 'The visit allowed us to give the Ambassador a sense of what we do here in Fingal and the concerns that people have about Brexit.

'He suggested potential opportunities to strengthen the already strong links between Fingal and Britain and we are certainly open to exploring them along with the relevant stakeholders.'

In his address, Ambassador Barnett noted that Fingal is a very important economic driver not just for Dublin but for Ireland and said its strengths included industries such as Med-Tech, Life Sciences and Agri-Business.

He also expressed optimism about of the Brexit negotiations and the opportunity presented to strengthen the relationship between Britain and Ireland.

He concluded by saying he appreciated the openness and frankness of the meeting and said his door was open to future engagement as he saw the meeting being the start of a stronger relationship between Britain and Fingal.
The shocking robbery of a Malahide jewellers at knife-point that left the owner gashed on the forearm was the second robbery and assault at the store in a matter of days, the Fingal Independent has learned.

The robbery of some 30,000 worth of jewellery at Bouchon Jewellery in the Diamond in Malahide on Saturday evening made national headlines after the store's owner was slashed with a knife during the raid but the Fingal Independent has learned that this was the second time a knife-wielding thief had struck at the store and in an earlier incident on January 18, an even greater haul of jewellery was stolen.

On Wednesday, January 18, a lone male entered the store at 4.30pm. He was holding a knife and attempted to jump the counter when a member of staff tried to stop him and was left with a graze under their chin from the knife.

The raider proceeded to smash the glass in a display cabinet and remove a quantity of items including Rolex and Longine watches, worth approximately 50,000. The raider fled the scene on foot.

The 55-year-old owner of the store, her daughter and a member of staff were present in the store at the time of the robbery, the Fingal Independent understands.

Just three days later, the incident reported in the national press over the weekend occurred when this time, two men entered the store on Saturday, January 21 at 4.55pm. Again, the store owner, her daughter and a member of staff were present in the store.

One of the male raiders was 'brandishing a knife' according to gardai. Both males jumped the counter of the store and proceeded to the safe room where the 55-year-old store owner was involved with a struggle with the raiders. She was assaulted and slashed on the arm with the knife.

The first raider is described as 5'9" and around 50 years of age, wearing glasses and a yellow jacket. The second raider was wearing a black jacket, white hat much younger than the 1st and was described as being 'Asian'.

Gardai are examining cctv footage taken on the street in the vicinity of the store and have appealed for witnesses to contact Malahide Garda Station at 01 6664600.
A man accused of robbing a bookmakers in Balrothery has been refused bail and remanded in custody.

Thomas Savage (44), otherwise known as Thomas O'Neill appeared before Swords District Court on Monday afternoon on the robbery charge.

He was arrested on Sunday, January 22 by gardai investigating the robbery at The Track Bookmakers.

Savage/O'Toole is charged with robbing 5,940 cash from the premises on Saturday, January 21 at 9.20pm.

Garda Derek Dalton told Judge Dermot Dempsey he arrested to accused at his home address at Ringsfort Avenue in Balrothery, at 2.50am on Sunday, January 22nd.

Clothing matching those the alleged robber was wearing on the day were found at his home address, the court was told.

Gda Dalton said a file has gone to the Director of Public Prosecutions for possible further charges.

Refusing bail, Judge Dermot Dempsey remanded the defendant in custody to appear before Cloverhill District Court on January 27.
The old St Joseph's school has been deemed not to be a derelict site

Gorey's Municipal District councillors are determined to find out what is to be done with the old St Joseph's School site on Wexford Street in Gorey.

In a discussion on derelict sites at last week's monthly meeting, Cllr Malcolm Byrne once again questioned why the former St Joseph's was recently determined not to be a derelict site. 'I would love to know how the criteria are determined,' he commented.

Cllr Joe Sullivan said that there had been at least two fires at the former school.

Council official Deirdre Kearns told them it was assessed under the criteria set out in the relevant Act. 'It is vacant, but not derelict,' she said. 'We just ask them to secure it. There has been an inspection and the recommendation has been the same.'

On the question of ownership, Cllr Byrne said it was understood the site is owned by the Catholic Diocese of Ferns, and that the Education and Training Board was to move in, but agreement couldn't be reached between the ETB and the Diocese. 'That's why an alternative premises was found for Youth Reach,' he stated.

He called on the Council to formally ask the Diocese about its plans for the site. District Manager Amanda Byrne suggested referring the matter to the Council's property section to follow it up. Cllr Robert Ireton said he'd like the site to become a car park.

Cllr Ireton then raised the matter of the old 'Singing Kettle' site in Riverchapel village, which he said, 'has become an awful dump,' as it is strewn with rubbish, and there is also a burnt out car there.

'There are four vacant houses there and have never been used,' he added. 'They've been lying there for eight years.'

Ms Kearns said a derelict levy has been applied to the site, but they have to establish the owner. She will report the dumping to the Environment section. 'If it's not safe, we may be able to deem it a dangerous site,' she said.

Cllr Mary Farrell also expressed her worries about a derelict house in Ballyedmond which is 'ready to collapse', and called on the Council to do something about it.
U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to limit immigration and refugees from some Muslim-majority countries is worrying, the French foreign minister said on Saturday.

"This can only worry us," Jean-Marc Ayrault, who was speaking at a joint press conference with his German counterpart Sigmar Gabriel in Paris. "Welcoming refugees who flee war and oppression is part of our duty."

Trump on Friday signed an executive order that will curb immigration and refugees from some Muslim-majority countries and he separately said he wanted the United States to give priority to Syrian Christians fleeing the civil war there.

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With the deadline fast approaching for CAO, Wexford students are being told not to panic if they do not get their first choice.

The normal closing date for applications is on February 1, but after this students still have the option to change their mind or course.

Loreto Secondary School Principal Billy O'Shea said the key thing to do is not to panic.

'Just get some sort of an application in by the deadline. Even if you only have a couple of courses on your list you can still change your mind on a later date,' said Mr O'Shea.

He said overall the CAO is a fair system and if you get the points and entry requirements you will get your first choice.

'Students should be very careful with their order of preference when filling out their CAO application. Talk to parents, teachers and guidance counsellors if unsure about anything. Just don't panic as there is no need to,' he said.

On February 6 from 12 p.m. a 'change of course' facility opens on the CAO website and will close on March 1 at 5.15 p.m. After this, students can avail of the 'change of mind' option that opens on May 5 at 12 p.m. and will close on July 1 at 5.15 p.m.

All courses and institutions have their own entry requirements so having the points for the course is just not enough. Students need to make sure they meet the requirements by checking subjects or their average grades.

Place your course choices in order of preference. Round one offers are on August 21 at 6 a.m. and you have until August 28 at 5.15 p.m. to reply. Offers are then issued on a weekly basis until mid-October, or until all places have been filled.

If you get a lower preference course in the first round, the best available option is to accept it as it might be your only offer. Accepting the course will not prevent you from receiving an offer from a higher preference course in a later round.

Engineering, science and other range of subjects are amongst the choices for CBS Enniscorthy students. With the deadline around the corner and some still unsure what to pick, they are urged to open a CAO account by CBS guidance counsellor Mink Weafer.

'Open an application online if you are still not sure what to do. Once it is opened you are still able to change around your course choices or even add new ones if you have done some research,' said Mr Weafer

He said there is a lot of information online that will give you details about courses and the potential job opportunities and salaries from certain courses. Qualifax and Careers Portal are very student friendly.

The new points system comes into affect this year and it is impossible to predict how it will go.

'The only advantage to the new points system is less students will be landing on the same scores. Any student could land on anything like 342, 366 and 387, so it means less competition for colleges as points will vary,'he said.

Mr Weafer said all students should go to their guidance counsellors if they have a question about anything. 'Their doors are always open and they are there to help even with the simplest of questions,' said Mr Weafer.

Visit www.cao.ie for more information.
Askamore Community Council is getting set to host an entertaining LipSync Battle between eleven acts in The Amber Springs Hotel

In a LipSync Battle, it's not about the singing, it's all about the performance, and some 63 members of the community in and around Askamore are currently perfecting their killer moves for a show that promises to entertain and enthral.

Askamore Community Council has lined up eleven acts to enter into LipSync legend in The Amber Springs Hotel, Gorey, at 8 p.m. today, January 28.

LipSync Battle is fast becoming the latest craze in Irish towns and villages, just at the Strictly Come Dancing was in recent years. The performers simply mime along to their chosen song in the style of their favourite act, and attempt to win over the audience through their convincing performance.

Rehearsals have been underway for several weeks, and each of the acts are keeping details carefully under wraps of the songs they have chosen to mime along. Even the rival acts don't know what the other acts have chosen.

The performers range in age from 13 to over 70, and they rehearse regularly with choreographer Tash in separate time slots to maintain confidentiality.

The event has been organised to raise funds to reduce the community debt, and several fundraisers in support of the main event have already been organised.

Tickets for LipSync Battle are available from Margaret on 087 7628839 or from Mary on 087 9521524.
Three community representatives are to be nominated to sit on the new Courtown Riverchapel Local Policing Forum, which is being set up.

The forum, a pilot scheme for the county, will include three representatives from groups involved in the Public Participation Network, Ger Mackey told the Gorey Municipal councillors last week. One or two councillors will also be appointed.

He said that the community representatives should be living or working in the Courtown Riverchapel area. 'We are anxious to commence the process,' he said, explaining that it will be a pilot scheme for the county.

Cllr Malcolm Byrne suggested that one of the representatives should be a young person or working with young people.

Cllr Mary Farrell wondered if such a forum could be set up in the Kilmuckridge area, as it is experiencing 'a huge amount of anti-social behaviour', but then clarified that it was like any other area in that respect.

District director Annette O'Neill said that once the pilot scheme is in place, the plan is to expand it out.
It was lauded as the best Gorey panto to date. 'Snow White and the Eleven Dwarves' finished at the weekend after nine sold out performances.

There were star turns from Ciara Byrne, Karen Conroy, Dave Cox, and the entire cast which included Denis Howell as Dame Dolly with her little fluffy white dog 'Fang.'

The show also featured footage of the Trumps' visit to Craanford NS where they announced plans to expand the underpass, and to build a wall around the community.

There was praise too for the 100 or more young cast members who put on a great show with help from Mandy O'Callaghan, Frances Ryan, and Fintan Cleary. Theatre Group chairman Denis Howell particularly complimented director Alan Corcoran for his work.

Denis thanked the cast, production team, and all who helped create an outstanding show, especially the local community, and sponsors: Marlfield House and The Duck restaurant; Casey Enterprises; and Pettitt's SuperValu.
A call has gone out for talented acts of all ages and varieties to enter the 28th annual Opportunity Knocks competition which takes place in Kilanerin Hall in February.

The heats will be held on the first three Fridays of the month, after which adjudicator Debbie Byrne will select the acts to go forward to the final night on Friday, February 24.

Participants are encouraged to get their entries in to Helen Whelan on 087 6429291 as places fill up quickly, and are allocated on a first come first served basis. There's no entry fee.

There are junior and senior competitions in various categories including singing, music, lip sync, dancing, novelty acts, and recitation, with solo and group sections for some categories.

On the first night, a mystery judge will select a junior and senior act to receive a special prize.

After adjudicator Debbie Byrne has seen all the finalists on the last night, she will announce the winners in the junior and senior sections, while the audience also selects its winner.

Doors open at 6.45 p.m. nightly, with the first act due on stage at 7.45 p.m. Entry is 5 for adults and 3 for under 16s. The event is a fundraiser for the upkeep and running of Kilanerin Parish Hall.
Fears that funding of 1.15 million earmarked in December to finally open the county's new mental health unit of Deer Park in Killarney has been siphoned off to University Hospital Kerry are entirely unfounded, according to the HSE.

The health service hit back this week at an assertion by the Psychiatric Nurses' Association (PNA) in last week's Kerryman that they had been informed by HSE management the funding was now to go into renovating the psychiatric Riask unit in Tralee instead.

The PNA are standing over this, however, and insist they were informed in a meeting on staffing arrangements at the new 40-bed Deer Lodge that no funding currently exists to open the unit - which many had hoped would happen by March.

However, the HSE is insistent the funding still stands. "Significant funding of 1.15 million was allocated...that funding will only be used for the opening of Deer Lodge Mental Health Unit and it is incorrect to state that it has been "siphoned" off to any other project," a spokesperson for the HSE said. It was announced as part of a 1.6m allocation in December, including renovation work at the Riask ward.

PNA spokesperson Cormac Williams was emphatic that his group were told otherwise, pointing to the HSE's National Service Plan for 2017 - which clearly provides for the refurbishment of an acute mental health unit in UHK at a cost of 1.5 million. "They [HSE] told us there is no funding currently available for Deer Lodge and that they were actively looking for it," Mr Williams said.

The HSE informed The Kerryman that work is underway in recruiting staff to allow for an imminent opening: "Work is now underway on the recruitment of staff and on commissioning the building to allow for the opening of Deer Lodge as soon as possible."

The spokesperson referred to the ongoing negotiations with unions.

"Discussions with unions are also underway, and meetings took place earlier this month. The commissioning of the building and the recruitment of staff are the remaining issues to be finalised before the unit can open fully, and the HSE is working to resolve these as quickly as possible," they explained.
You would probably be doing well to find a Ballybunion person not yet sick of 'balls' puns after the recent consternation surrounding the appearance of a traffic-calming measure that left much to be desired.

But two things putting a smile on their faces this week are the fact the offending orbs are set to be replaced by the 22-inch-high bollards originally requested from the Council by the Tidy Towns and that the days of the clapped-out public toilets above the men's beach are now firmly numbered.

Local Sinn Fein County Councillor Robert Beasley said he is expecting the Council to shortly begin the replacement job on the balls: "These were not what was originally requested by the Tidy Towns, but thankfully the error is now being corrected by Kerry County Council and the balls will be replaced with the bollards the Tidy Towns originally sought."

He praised the work of the Tidy Towns locally for helping transform the appearance of the famous resort town in recent years.

"They do great work and Kerry County Council has done a lot of good work too in recent years. I was delighted to learn that the contract for the building of the new public toilets near the Castle Green will be going to tender shortly. It will bring them up to the same standard as the new toilets at the Ladies' Beach opened by the Council last year as well as the revamped shops above the men's beach," Cllr Beasley said.
Suzanne Gibbons has spoken of her heartbreak and frustration since the RTE documentary into allegations at Animal Heaven Animal Rescue which sparked local and national debate over her position at AHAR. But the story is a one-sided one, according to Suzanne. "I'm so hurt that Kerry people think I'm a fraud," she said in an interview to The Kerryman.

Suzanne talks about leaving home as a teenager with just 11 in her pocket and a plastic bag full of clothes. AHAR became her dream and a place where animals in distress could find sanctuary. But even though she's naturally upset at the spotlight currently on AHAR, she admits to being tough as old boots. "I've done nothing wrong, and I've nothing to hide. I'm 5-foot-nothing and 8 stone, but my animals have always come first."

Perceptions of AHAR can be dissected into two parts: those who dislike it and those who sing its praises. It's as simple as that. Initially, the war of words over AHAR simmered on social media, started by a group of concerned ex-volunteers, before boiling into a national debate. Suzanne admits there are issues in need of attention at AHAR. But equally strongly repudiates any allegations of misuse of funds.

"The Charities Regulatory Authority (CRA) spent two days here forensically going through everything and they found no misuse of money," said Suzanne. "Are you seriously telling me that the CRA wouldn't have taken my charity number off me if I was a fraud? What I'm guilty of is not putting money from AHAR towards paying professional people to do the books. And as for spending AHAR's money, don't make me laugh. Our volunteers work up to 12 hours here on a Saturday and I go out and buy bread, milk, burgers and chips for them to eat. That's what I'm guilty of. I asked the CRA if I was committing fraud by feeding our volunteers and they said no."

But what drives a young woman to live the life she leads in a remote location in lodgings Suzanne describes as 'nothing fancy'? She tells me about her father and how proud she is of him. "He set up a soup kitchen with St Vincent de Paul in Cork, a place where I spent many childhood days volunteering." Tragically her father drowned while trying to save a friend and the incident is one that haunted Suzanne in the days and weeks following her daring donkey rescue in the floods of 2015 which made international headlines.

"This all stems from his influence. Our house in Cork was always an open one. I owe my strength to my mom and dad as few single women, living alone, would have got through this last three years. I've given homeless people shelter here at AHAR and also given voluntary work to many young people who would not be taken on anywhere else. That's the kind of place AHAR is. For 15 years I lived in a mobile home in a bog in Gneeveguilla before moving into AHAR. Few cared about Suzanne back then."

My next question gets to the nub of Suzanne's troubles. I ask if there really can be smoke without fire and how is it she finds herself at the cold face of scrutiny and having to endure the rigours of public opinion? The allegations are part of what Suzanne labels 'a process' to have her removed from AHAR but she says that Gardai, Department of Agriculture and CRA inspections have all failed to land the sort of blow that would remove her.

"There are 25 years of my blood sweat and tears in AHAR," she says.

The forerunner to what would became AHAR stems from Suzanne's days as a qualified showjumper where money raised through teaching horse-riding paid for animal welfare. Then recession hit -riding schools went down the drain.

"I had to become a charity if I wanted to continue the animal rescue. Over three-and-a-half years ago I announced that I was going to raise money to buy a farm and put it in trust. It's the army of AHAR supporters who bought it with their donations; I don't own it, which is another fact people have overlooked in all this. My brother installed cameras around the yard and there's over 40 cameras here. I always ask the authorities to view the footage for themselves."

Finally, Suzanne is furious over RTE's handling of the recent TV investigation into AHAR, claiming they never contacted her for a direct comment but rather submitted her with a questionnaire.

Moreover, Suzanne asks if trying to uncover signs of animal mistreatment would have been better served by contacting the vets who spend time with the animals at AHAR.

"I was only asked for my views about pre-prepared topics they had on me. When people say 'Suzanne is at fault' there's a ripple effect as it also seems to mean that the officials are at fault, my vets are at fault and everyone that helps here is somehow at fault. Do you seriously think that if all the stories about dead horses and dogs were true that the legal inspectors wouldn't have seen it? I'm the most down to earth person you'll meet. I'm not into fancy holidays abroad or fancy nails. I'm just not that kind of woman. My animals never went without and won't ever while I'm here."

Statement by the Charities Regulator concerning AHAR

A statement by the Charities Regulator on the recent visit to AHAR outlined the following: Concerns were raised with my office, in relation to Animal Heaven Animal Rescue (AHAR) and following our initial assessment, we sought information from the charity regarding compliance with the Charities Acts.

Following this, two members of the Charities Regulators Compliance Unit conducted a site visit, to inspect the charitys financial books and records and to hold interviews with the Charity Trustees and the charitys manager.

During this process we identified a number of issues regarding the governance and financial management of the charity. Specifically, the failure of the charity to maintain proper books of account. We formed the view that this is an offence under the Charities Act, 2009. The Charity Trustees co-operated with the Compliance Unit and have also agreed with this assessment.

This is why we now require the Charity Trustees to take immediate steps to ensure that proper books of account are maintained and that procedures are introduced, which will facilitate them in providing the relevant scrutiny and oversight of the charitys financial management.

Failure to comply with this order will result in the Charities Regulator bringing a prosecution against AHAR and may take steps to temporarily removing them from the Register of Charities, until legal requirements are met.
Fenit RNLI's PRO Jackie Murphy has called for any aspiring volunteers to get in touch, as the Fenit harbour-based station is on the lookout for new crew members.

Ms Murphy told The Kerryman that several members have recently left the station for pastures new, and an inclusive process to fill those spaces is already underway.

"We need new lifeboat crew members, and we're open to any aspiring volunteers between the ages of 17 and 65, be they male or female," she said.

"We promise complete, thorough training for volunteers, and all they have to do is get in contact."

"We're also holding a recruitment open day on March 26 at our station, but our recruitment process has already started - in fact, I'm happy to say we've already had phone calls from interested parties."

Ms Murphy added that applicants should be able to access Fenit Harbour quickly, as a fast response to an emergency call is vital.

The Fenit group serves a large area which extends beyond county Kerry for 24 hours a day, seven days a week, but although challenging, Ms Murphy stressed the importance of the RNLI's role.

"We're there to save lives at sea, and we've helped people in a non-judgemental manner for over 100 years now," she said.

"Since our station reopened in 1994, we've assisted our colleagues from other lifeboat services and emergency services for the good of the people of Kerry, and I would encourage people to get involved and volunteer with our committed, vital crew."

She was also keen to underline the RNLI's gratefulness for the support the voluntary service receives from the generous public.

"We're dependent on fundraising, and any support is appreciated. The people of Kerry have always been helpful; just recently we received 2,600 raised from the Fenit Christmas swim, and things like that are a huge help."

To get involved, or to obtain any further information, you can contact Lifeboat Operations Manager Gerald O'Donnell at (087) 256 9772.
Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will meet US President Donald Trump for face-to-face talks on February 10, Kyodo news reported Saturday after the leaders spoke by phone.

White House press secretary Sean Spicer confirmed the meeting on Twitter.

"During call with Japanese Prime Minister Abe @POTUS invited him to a meeting at White House on February 10th," Spicer said.

Abe also said he and Trump had affirmed the importance of US-Japan ties during the call, according to Kyodo.

The conversation comes just days after Trump formally withdrew the United States from the Trans-Pacific Partnership, a vast trade deal encompassing a dozen nations that Abe has backed enthusiastically.

US participation is seen as key to the agreement and Abe has said he would keep trying to convince Trump of its merits.

Abe was the first world leader to rush to meet the US president-elect in New York, visiting Trump just nine days after Americans voted him into office in a surprise victory.

The meeting stirred controversy when Trump's daughter, Ivanka, a former model and current business executive with no formal role in Trump's presidency, was seen in attendance.

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Guesthouse owners Stephen McPhilemy and Patrick Wade aren't Donald Trump supporters - but when they received an invitation to the inauguration of the 45th President of the United States from Irish-American Congressman Kevin McCarthy, they decided it best not to turn down a chance to witness history.

The duo are co-owners of Dingle's Milltown House, and while Stephen was understandably tired when he spoke to The Kerryman this week after the trip of a lifetime, he was obviously buzzing after the most surreal of weekends.

"My colleague Patrick, who is American, is good friends with Congressman McCarthy, and that's how we received invitations to the inauguration ceremony on Friday."

"We had excellent seats near the front, and the whole thing was unreal. The security presence was overwhelming; it was like something you'd expect at an airport.

"There was also some fairly vocal interaction between anti-Trump protesters and the President's supporters, which added further intensity to an already surreal occasion," he recalled. "Most of the crowd was cheering wildly for Trump, but a few people were rolling their eyes while he spoke - including a few Republicans!"

That night, Patrick and Stephen were invited by Congressman McCarthy to a cocktail party in Washington DC, but they were up bright and early the following morning for more. The pair toured the Washington Mall's famous monuments of the likes of Martin Luther King and Jefferson, before making their way to more history - the city's massive Women's March.

"There's been all sorts of controversy in recent days about the size of the crowd at the inauguration, but I can safely say there was far more people at the march," Stephen said.

"It was very different to Friday. At the inauguration, most of the crowd was made up of boisterous Trump supporters. But the vast majority at the protestors were vehemently anti-Trump."

As someone who studied politics in university, Stephen described the whole weekend was an experience and a half. "Congressman McCarthy brought us to not just one but several pieces of history - I hope we can bring him over to Dingle soon as a sign of our appreciation," he said.

"I hope to be back in four years time - whether it's a Republican or Democrat with a hand on the bible!"
Housing Minister Simon Coveney has described the multi million Euro Mitchel's Regeneration Project in Tralee as a model for community regeneration and housing policy in Ireland.

The Minister was speaking at Aras an Phobail in Tralee's Mitchels area as he launched the next phase of the ongoing 47 million Euro Mitchel's Regeneration Project.

This next phase will involve the construction of 15 new social housing units in the area.

"The Mitchel's Regeneration Project is a really good template for what we want to achieve across Ireland," Minister Coveney said.

He said that Tralee - which he described as a town that has "faced many challenges in the past" - has much to teach the country when it comes to developing communities and providing housing that meets the needs of modern Irish society.

The Tralee Community Horse project was also cited as a success story that other towns could follow.

The Minister also praised the Mitchel's Project for the successful manner in which communities have been brought together through the scheme.

This - he said - was a model for future Irish housing policy in which private and social housing will exist side by side.

"The days of having social houses on one side of a town and private houses on the other are over," he claimed.

Kerry has much to teach Ireland when it comes to housing, he said, adding that he was in Tralee to listen and to learn.

Following the event at Aras an Phobail attended a 'stakeholder event' at Manor West Hotel for all public bodies and groups in Kerry involved in the Rebuilding Ireland initiative.

SPEAKING to the media in Tralee on Monday Housing Minister Simon Coveney said he doesn't think a General Election is likely this year.

Minister Coveney - who was speaking after a new poll put Fine Gael support at just 23 per cent - said that despite reported unhappiness among Fianna Fail backbenchers he saw no reason why Michael Martin would not honour his party's three year supply and confidence deal to support the government.

While Minister Coveney was in Tralee to promote he Government's housing plan he also took time to meet local councillors to discuss the party's fortunes in Kerry.

Following meetings to discuss the housing situation and the government's building programme with senior Kerry County Council staff Minister Coveney held a brief private meeting with Kerry Fine Gael members at county buildings in Rathass.
ClearStream Technologies Ltd celebrated an important milestone earlier this month when the company celebrated 20 years in business.

The company, which is based in Moyne Upper, Enniscorthy, has grown from approximately 20 employees when they started in early 1997 to over 400 employees today.

Originally opening as Angiodynamics, an American-based medical device company, the company has been through numerous changes including a management buy out, floating on the AIM stock exchange in London and subsequently being acquired by the global medical devices company CR Bard in 2011.

Bard is a leading multinational developer, manufacturer, and marketer of innovative, life-enhancing medical technologies in the fields of vascular, urology, oncology, and surgical specialties.

They employ more than 12,000 people worldwide. At the Enniscorthy facility, ClearStream manufactures mainly angioplasty catheters that are used in both coronary and peripheral procedures to unblock arteries.

ClearStream's focus has always been on developing talent and promoting from within, with many employees growing their careers in ClearStream. As one of the larger employers in county Wexford and the largest in Enniscorthy , ClearStream are actively looking to foster ties with both local secondary schools and colleges to ensure opportunities are available to graduates in many disciplines in their local area.

In addition, Clearstream have been working in the last number of years to give back to the community by increasing their local charity work and help to fundraise for worthy causes in the local area. Each year, the employees at Clearstream nominate and vote on a charity of the year and all fund raising activities during the year will be for the chosen charity. In addition, the company match the amounts raised as part of a campaign by Bard to give back to the local community.

In 2014, ClearStream opened a second manufacturing building at their site in the IDA industrial estate in Moyne Upper which represented a very significant investment in the site by Bard. This positivity has carried through with the site continuing to grow and be recognized within CR Bard globally.

ClearStream marked its 20th anniversary by ensuring they recognised employees who have been with the company from the outset. The 7 employees work across departments and have shown dedication and loyalty to the company throughout the growth and change of the past 20 years. Director of Operations Pauline Oakes said the company's employees' loyalty and dedication have been key to its success throughout the years. 'It has been wonderful that they have been with us to see the growth of the company over our 20 years of existence , particularly since we became part of C.R Bard. We look forward to having them with us for many years to come.'
People far more knowledgeable than I have been writing and commenting on Trump and Brexit over the last number of months. I seldom if ever write on the news of the day or on topical matters. The exception proves the rule.

I can still remember my first visit to Germany. It was summer 1972. I headed off to Germany to do a six-week language course in Cologne, staying with the Dominicans in Lindenstrae. Gosh 45 years have passed. Hard to believe it's that long ago. It was my first time to drive on a motorway. In 1972 Germany was worlds away from life in Ireland.

We had that large green passport and before heading off I had to buy German Marks. If I remember correctly when I changed 100 into German Marks it had to be registered in the person's passport. At the end of the course I travelled to Leipzig in the former German Democratic Republic. The hoops that one had to go through to get a visa for the GDR was simply mesmerising. And then travelling by rail from West to East Germany the locomotive would be changed at the border. East German police boarded and systematically and methodically check every passenger on the train.

At the time, the 'young fella' that I was, it was great adventure heading east. And then there was all the hassle of changing West German Marks into East German Marks. Add to that the fiddling one could do by changing money on the black market. The East German authorities required visitors to exchange a specific sum of money for every day they were in the country.

In other words it was a madness and all crazy stuff. That's exactly what borders can do. Whatever gloss the Brexiteers put on their plans, the reality is shockingly worrying. When I was a 'young fella' there was no Erasmus. We stayed put and the majority of of us grew up in an insular Ireland. People might be inclined to thank Michael O'Leary and Ryanair for all our coming and going. But no, it has been the genius of the European Union that has given us the possibility of working in Berlin, studying in Paris or getting to know friends in Florence.

The irony of it is that the EU has helped give all of us the lifestyle of the 'elite'. To hear the likes of Michael Gove and Boris Johnson cast scorn on the 'elite' must be the ultimate in irony. And that's exactly what Trump does too. There's that old phrase that 'familiarity breeds contempt'. Maybe it is that we have taken all our privileges for granted, got bored with them and anyone who promises some sort of new misty 'paradise' we simply fall for the bate. Does anyone really believe that jobs are going to spring up across the Rust Belt in the US and in the unemployment black-spots of the UK?

How can people such as Trump, Gove and Johnson even pretend to be on the side of the marginalised? It seems to me to be obscene. They are the elite. To think that a member of the Westminster Parliament can run off to the US, interview Donald Trump, have it published, never asking the man one delving question is horrific.

The vulgarity, the rudeness of Trump. Everything about the man. His crass wealth. What's happening?

And then there's Vladimir Putin.
That gurning face. That smug smile that turns in on itself. The self-deifying soundbites.

Trump arrived into the White House from Capitol Hill on Friday on a cloud of bluster, fantasy and controversy.

Within hours he had declared war on the media through his White House press secretary Sean Spicer, amid childish and pompous claims that his crowd was bigger than Obama's. He is, to my mind, a latter day Walter Mitty. Scratch beneath the orange surface and what is there. Lies, lies and more damned lies.

Contrast the image of Barack Obama taking the oath of office in 2009, when the National Mall was full of millions of people, many singing and with tears of joy in their eyes, to the scenes on Friday and the word underwhelming comes to mind.

Trump's inauguration alongside his predecessor, Barack Obama, who tried too hard to be liked some times, but who ultimately did a great job in leading by good example healing divides at home and abroad, was a portend of what is to come.

He talked of America First, waiting for people to start chanting the slogan, but it got a lukewarm response. The USA USA chants were in abundance though, from the baying Trump crowd. He spoke about the need for unity with Americans who live with 'the crime and the gangs and the drugs', rich words from a man whose father was investigated for preventing black people from staying at his apartments and who, himself, called Mexican immigrants rapists on his campaign trail.

His is a wasteland America, full of 'carnage' and 'tombstones' of factories where, he would have it, people have been neglected by successive governments.

The 45th American President wants to make America great again, saying the country will 'shine for everyone to follow'. Positing himself as the businessman who can bring jobs to the country, as a Defender of the People, Trump seems to be so deluded to think a man who is the epitome of entitlement and Daddy's money will devote his time to transforming the lives of people he patently has no interest in.

It emerged afterwards that most of his inauguration speech was not written by him - as he suggested in a tweet - but by two of his top advisors.

Two days before his inauguration, The Donald tweeted a picture of him seemingly writing his speech three weeks before at the Winter White House in Mar-a-Lago. However, a White House official said much of the speech was actually written by Stephen Miller and Steve Bannon, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Meanwhile anyone with eyes in their head can see that photographs of the National Mall in Washington DC and public transport figures for the city contradict Spicer's manic war cry that his boss drew 'the largest audience ever to witness an inauguration, period, both in person and around the globe'.

See Trump can't taking losing and he hates criticism. Like a spoiled child he goes into Grump Trump mode when confronted, usually leading to a late night defensive tweet. Spicer accused journalists of reporting inaccurate crowd numbers and using misrepresentative photographs 'to minimise the enormous support' that he claimed the new president enjoyed at his swearing-in.

Size matters for Trump and if can he pull off the unlikely and get employment figures up to a size the press is satisfied with, happy days. But the crowds of protestors will not go away and Obama's already missed.
Tests of Wexford broadband speeds ranks 'wireless' provider Imagine as delivering faster speeds than many 'fibre' providers.

Imagine said the ranking of broadband speeds in County Wexford released by independent measurement expert, Ookla Speedtest 'demonstrate the fundamental importance of wireless internet connectivity to counties like Wexford'.

According to the tests rural provider Imagine ranks higher than eir, Vodafone and Sky.

The Ookla Speedtest results 2016 measured the speed performance of all internet service providers (ISP) servicing the Irish market. The results were calculated by measuring and aggregating the performance of ISPs as reported by users, with the top five providers ranked and named.

Imagine LTE (Imagine) was placed second in Ireland for the 2016 speedtest, behind Virgin Media, but ahead of eir, Vodafone and Sky. Imagine said it has rolled-out its wireless offering across Wexford, delivering broadband speeds faster than fibre in broadband blackspots. Using the latest wireless technology, Imagine says it has connected homes and businesses across the county.

The company plans to add an additional customers in Wexford as part of a 2017 and 2018 investment programme. Brian O'Donohoe, Commercial Director at Imagine said: 'The results of the Ookla Speedtest for 2016 show that Imagine is the leading provider of high quality broadband. Our wireless solution is delivering a higher speed service across Wexford than many city dwellers are getting. Visit www.imagine.ie.
Q I am a business owner aged 55 and considering Exiting from my business, what are the key areas I need to consider?

A If you are over 50 years of age, the decisions you make now will have long term consequences and the areas that need consideration are: The financial prosperity of your family, the future of your business, capital acquisitions and capital gains tax, the quality of your life, the amount of stress & work that may or may not lie ahead for you and your family and how, when, and if you will retire? Getting it wrong now might be an irreversible process and lead you to miss major opportunities.

There are big tax challenges and opportunities that kick in for business owners from age 50 onwards that should be considered by you. At this stage, careful planning is required around various factors that might include:

- Reducing your workload at some point

- Getting others to take more responsibility, this may be family or internal management

- Ensuring that you have enough money to live on for the rest of your and your spouse's lives

- Succession & Inheritance issues

- Ensuring that you don't pay too much tax either by taking cash from your business at the wrong time, poorly timed pension drawdown or inefficient property debt or company structures

- Understanding & adjusting the risk/volatility profile of your pensions & investments to ensure sustainable future income

There are 3 key areas you need to consider:

Your Lifetime Cash flow Strategy: This involves developing a detailed picture of your income & expenditure for the rest of your life. You will need to consider your net worth each year for the rest of your life and then have a clear plan on how to keep income taxes to a minimum and how to structure your income & timing of drawdown of various income sources you may have.

Succession Planning (Capital Acquisitions and Capital Gains Tax): As you reach retirement age, it is likely that you will be giving thought to the transfer of your business or other assets to your children. If done incorrectly this can lead to unnecessary tax liabilities. You should have a clear plan for the ultimate transfer of your business & investment assets to the next generation. The plan needs to be complied by a qualified tax consultant and should meet your desires for the business and family in the most tax efficient manner. The plan should cover the complexity of your situation depending on business and personal assets, including properties owned. You need to consider all available tax reliefs to prevent any unnecessary tax leakage occurring as part of any transfers. There is a range of tax reliefs available.

Pension and Investment Analysis: Typically, business owners have little understanding of what role their pension and investments might play in their retirement plans, let alone the tax considerations when accessing such policies, You need to understand the following:

- Understanding pension fees & charges contained within existing policies

- Understanding and assessment of the nature of the risks associated with your pension funds

- Understanding of future likely tax free lump sums & income from your pension

If you need information on how to implement an exit plan tax efficiently, contact Jim Doyle on 053 9170507 or email jdoyle@rda.ie
There has been widespread praise for North Wexford teenager David Beattie who shared his transgender story with Ryan Tubridy on The Late Late Show last Friday night.

The 19-year-old journalism student told Ryan that he realised he was transgender two years ago, and he has now begun his journey to become female, and will be known as Laylah. He estimates it could take up to five years for the transition to be complete, and he still identifies as male.

Originally from Dublin, David moved with his family to Ballycanew when he was nine-years-old. As he grew older, he became aware of his body dysmorphia issues, and he got into trouble in school on several occasions for changing in the female changing rooms for PE as he felt very uncomfortable in the male changing rooms. His fellow students at Colaiste an Atha, Kilmuckridge, were very supportive of his need to use the female changing rooms, and he said he believed the school authorities eventually turned 'a blind eye' to the move.

His interview was described on social media as 'very honest and hugely brave', 'very articulate and confident' and 'empowering.' In doing the interview, he told Tubridy he said he hoped to be able to help others.

Speaking yesterday, Monday, he said he found Ryan Tubridy to be 'very engaged and sensitive in his approach to tackling the topic'. He found the overwhelmingly positive response as 'so unexpected' and 'a little overwhelming'.

'I'm overjoyed that it went so well and that people seemed to really connect with me and my story,' he said.
Forest fires ravaging southern Chile have now killed 11 people, President Michelle Bachelet said Saturday, as firefighters waged an all-out battle to extinguish the raging infernos.

Bachelet told reporters that more than 9,000 firefighters and other responders have been enlisted to battle the fires, which have destroyed almost 1.2 million acres (480,000 hectares) in seven regions of the South American nation.

"We are fighting the fire without pause and without precedent," Bachelet declared.

More than 4,500 volunteer firefighters and members of the country's national forest brigades plus some 4,600 police officers and other public officials are battling the blaze.

The fires have forced more than two thousand people into shelters, and have damaged or destroyed more than 4,000 dwellings.

Among the countries that have dispatched aid to help put out the infernos are Argentina, Spain, France, Portugal and Mexico.

A Russian aircraft with a 42-ton water-carrying capacity is due to arrive on Sunday, while Brazil and Peru were also expected to send firefighting aircraft.

According to the latest report by Chile's national forest service, Conaf, there are a total of 110 separate fires, 50 of which are under control, while 60 are still being fought.

Fires are common in Chile's parched forests during the southern hemisphere's summer. Most are caused by human activity. More than 35 people have been arrested and accused of playing a role in starting or propagation the fires.

Fire activity this year was worse than usual because of a drought attributed by environmentalists to climate change.

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The national school scene of the late 1930s before the outbreak of World War 2 was a completely different one to today's. The internet, computers and instant messaging were decades away and instead agriculture, electricity or lack thereof and emigration were among the talking points of the local community.

A local man in Curry recently discovered an essay written by a young student of Curry N.S on July 4th, 1939. James McGuinn said the essay is a brilliant insight into what life was like in rural Ireland at the time.

He added: "Michael H Gallagher was a pupil in Curry Boys School in the thirties. The following essay was written by him in 1939, this was eight weeks before the start of World War 2," James points out.

Michael's synopsis of Curry life during that time portrays a strong sense of community, where the local church, shops, school and garda station played a central role. One of the major changes is the now silent railway. Michael depicted a bustling railway station in the south Sligo village, where eight trains would pass every single day.

The young student writes in 'My Parish': The name of my parish is Curry. It got that name from the amount of bogs all around it. The Coarse river runs through the village. There are seven schools in the parish, namely two in Cloonagh, two in Curry village, one in Broher and two in Moylough. The two schools of Curry are bigger than the other five. There are two churches, Curry and Moylough. We have two priests, a parish priest and a curate. There is a railway station in Curry where people purchase tickets when they are going on a train journey. Eight trains run through the parish every day of the year, three in the morning, two at dinner time and three in the evening.

People emigrating to America and England from this area usually get the train in Curry. Those emigrating to England generally return but those going to America seldom do. Many young people emigrate to England when they are fifteen or sixteen years old. Three young men from the parish were killed in accidents in England last year.

There are four guards in Curry of which Sergeant McCann is in charge. There is electric light in the village but not throughout the parish. There is a small number of shops in the village, grocery shops, public houses, a post office and one butcher's shop open only at weekends. Nearly every townland has a small shop and some have even two.
Sligo and Donegal bid farewell yesterday to a brave little boy who passed away last Friday from Mitochondrial disease.

Seven-year-old Oran Nibbs returned home from hospital in Dublin to Rathdonnell, Trentagh in Co Donegal shortly before his passing.

His mother Ashling Nibbs, nee Mitchell is a native of Rosehill in Sligo. Many Sligo people have fundraised for Oran over the past few years.

She and fellow-Sligonian Fiona Rodgers are among seven mothers who set up the 'Our Children's Voice' campaign in 2014 calling for a specialised hospice in the North West for children with life-limiting or terminal illnesses.

The advocacy group posted a tribute to the seven year old on social media: "Donegal has lost a brave warrior today who always had a smile on his face, as he fought the battle with Mitochondrial Disease.

"It's with great sadness we say farewell to this gorgeous boy...Oran took his Angel wings today with his family around him," they posted.

"We would be quite happy if we could get a hospice that catered for all the North West, Sligo, Leitrim and Donegal," said Ashling to this newspaper in February 2016.

Oran met actor Colin Farrell at an event for the Katie Rose Foundation in 2015. Fiona and Sean Rodgers set up the foundation in memory of their daughter, Katie Rose, who also passed away from mitochondrial disease at age 2 in December 2014.

Orans' funeral Mass was held at 11am in the Church of the Irish Martyrs, Letterkenny, yesterday. He was laid to rest afterwards in Carrigans Cemetery, Maugherow, Sligo.

Oran is survived by his parents, a brother and a sister, grandparents and extended family in Sligo and Donegal.
Well-known hoteliers Francis and John Brennan have apologised for comments they made about Sligo in a weekend newspaper which got many locals hot and bothered yesterday.

The TV broadcaster Francis referred to his vision of Sligo in an article in the Sunday Business Post as "fifteen fellas smoking and collecting the dole" outside the Post Office.

He went on to say: "That's my vision of Sligo, because they wouldn't work in a fit. They wouldn't understand what we do in Kerry."

A spokesperson for Mr Brennan, Ms Margaret Ryan, told this newspaper that his comments referred to Sligo back in the 1970s before he moved to Kerry. "Historically, Kerry back then was like a different world - everyone had 2/3 jobs going at once. It was probably about the ingenuity of the people of Kerry. If any offence has been taken he would profusely apologise, Francis wouldn't offend anyone and it was never meant to offend," she said.

There was strong negative reaction on social media in the last two days in response to the article.

John Brennan, who lived in Sligo for fifteen years, contacted The Sligo Champion newsroom when he heard about the reaction.

"Francis' experience of Sligo and his comment would have been historical. My reaction to the comment was in relation to anything that isn't South Kerry," he said.

"There is no flat fields or factories in South Kerry - there is only tourism. So they're extra entrepreneurial when it comes to making hay while the sun shines in the summer. I have lived in Sligo, my wife's from Sligo, we were only in Sligo last week so we have no issue with Sligo," insisted John.

Chairman of Sligo Tourism Joe Corcoran said he would be "surprised that Francis Brennan would refer to Sligo in that light but if the context of his interview was referring to his leaving Sligo then it would be different."

"Certainly from a tourism point of view the product is very strong and professional today. We have moved on quite a bit from those days. In my opinion we're doing a very good job," said Mr Corcoran.
Rural roads across Sligo are currently being surveyed to find out how bad they are.

Councillor Joe Queenan was told the news at this month's meeting of Ballymote - Tubbercurry Municipal District after he asked how many miles of Class 2 and 3 roads needed to be upgraded.

Senior Executive Engineer Paddy Huges told members that a Pavement Surface Condition Index survey of our non-national roads was being carried out at the present.

The roads surveyed to date are mostly in Ballymote and Tubbercurry.

Roads with ratings of 1-2 are in "very poor condition" and roads with a rating of 9-10 are in a "very good condition."

Once the survey is finished Mr Hughes said he would be able to say the length of roads in each rating. "Needless to say we have a lot more roads requiring improvement than will be funded in 2017/2018," he added.

Cllr Margaret Gormley said no funding had come for Class 3 roads in the last number of years. "There should be a special allocation approved from the Restoration Improvement Grant Programme," she said.

"These people are getting absolutely nothing for their Motor Tax. Minister Shane Ross would need to come down to this county and see Class 3 roads," said Cllr Gormley.

"When this report is done we'll find out how many Class 3 roads are here and what state they're in," said Cllr Paul Taylor.

Cllr Jerry Lundy thanked the Outdoor staff for their "hard work done with limited funds."

"These people are paying the same Motor Tax as the people in Dublin who have motorways. A lot of this money (motor tax) is going to Irish Water and not the roads. We should do away with motor tax for these roads," he said.

Cllr Lundy then proposed writing to Minister Ross for funding for rural roads in Sligo.

Cllr Queenan objected to that and said the Fianna Fail-supported minority government should make it a priority. "Writing is a waste of time. They'll only fudge it. A civil servant will get the letter and they've no interest in the world," he said.

Cllr Queenan then suggested waiting until the report is finished and then writing to Minister Ross. "This comes up at every meeting. We should all be lobbying our party members, everyone bar none," said Cllr Paul Taylor. "I have spoken to TDs about it and we cannot let them ignore it either. We're all in South Sligo," he added.

Cllr Lundy agre ed to wait until the road survey was done before writing to Minister Ross.

Cllr Margaret Gormley also pointed out that they should contact Minister Michael Ring as well as he is the Minister of State for Regional Economic Development.
The driver was caught travelling at 168kph on the Sligo to Collooney dual carriageway

A driver caught travelling at 168kph on the Sligo to Collooney dual carriageway during the Christmas period faced a charge of dangerous driving at Sligo District Court last Thursday.

The driver's solicitor, Mr Mark Mullaney argued for a reduction in the charge to one of careless driving saying the defendant was driving a "powerful Audi A4 car" and was overtaking at the time.

Before the court was Richard Gaughan (26), originally from Ballina but with an address at 13 Fane Street, Belfast who was charged with dangerous driving at Caltragh on December 27th last.

Gardai posted a picture of the detection, 168kph (104 mph) on its Twitter page at the time. The pic shows the laser gun being held by a Garda with the defendant's Audi stopped on the Inner Relief Road.

In a tweet to accompany the picture, Gardai said: Man arrested yesterday Sligo - "Dangerous driving (168kph in 100 zone) charged to appear in court at a later date. It's not worth it folks."

Gaughan was stopped by Garda Brendan Gardiner.

Inspector Paul Kilcoyne told the court that Garda Gardiner was operating a speed checkpoint on the dual carriageway when he detected the Audi travelling at 168kph on the Sligo bound carriage.

The Inspector said the road was wet at the time and there was a large volume of traffic present. The defendant was overtaking at the time, he added. The defendant had previous convictions from Ballina District Court in 2013 for not displaying learner plates and for not having a driving licence.

Mr Mullaney pleaded the defendant accepted he was driving considerably in excess of the speed limit which was 100kph.

However, he said Gaughan was driving quite a powerful car and was in the process of overtaking when he was detected.

Mr Mullaney pointed out that the dual carriageway was built to motorway standards and he believed all the badges of dangerous driving weren't present in this case.

There was speed certainly but there was no other factors at play such as the condition of the car or the road.

Judge Kevin Kilrane said he was prepared to reduce the charge to careless driving and not dangerous driving which would have attracted a disqualification.

"We're talking about speed only here and I've also taken into account that the defendant pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity," said the Judge. He fined Gaughan 300, a conviction which also comes with five penalty points. The defendant handed in his licence to the court clerk for processing the points.
A 39-year-old father of seven who was jailed for two months after telling a Garda Sergeant to 'f*** off' from his house had the term lifted on appeal at Sligo Circuit Court.

Michael Sweeney of Caltragh Crescent admitted being abusive to Sergeant Philip Maree following what the court heard was "a domestic" on January 1st 2015. The defendant, who has previous Public Order convictions, was jailed for two months by Judge Kevin Kilrane at the District Court.

State Solicitor Mr Hugh Sheridan told the court that the defendant became abusive and aggressive to Sergeant Philip Maree and told him to 'f***-off' out of his property. Sweeney continued to be abusive and was subsequently arrested.

Mr Sheridan said that the defendant had received a suspended sentence from the Circuit Court in Castlebar and the suspension period still covered the offence before the court.

Mr Gerard McGovern, solicitor (defending) pleaded that it was a domestic matter between the defendant and his wife. When the Gardai arrived he told them that the matter was at an end.

A relative had died and they were upset and matters arose in the house, said Mr McGovern. Sweeney did tell the Garda to 'f***-off' out of the house.

Mr McGovern added that there had been a number of recent deaths in unfortunate circumstances in the Sweeney family and the defendant had come off his medication at the time.

He was now back on his medication and matters had settled down.

The defendant apologised in court for his behaviour.

"The words just came out. I regretted it as soon as I said it. There was so much going on at the time," he said.

The defendant gave an undertaking to Judge Keenan Johnson that he would stay on his medication and do what his doctors advise.

Judge Johnson increased the sentence to four months but suspended the term for two years on condition he was of good behaviour.
A Minister of State has stated he'd like to see a light rail link between Sligo, Donegal and Northern Ireland as well as the re-opening of the Galway to Sligo line. Minister for the OPW, Sean Canney, in a submission to the National Transport Authority, said it was timely the Government clarified the future role of railways in the Irish economy.

"I strongly believe that our national rail network is not operating at its full capacity and that it is an incredible waste of resources to leave 80 miles of railway infrastructure idle and dormant between Galway and Sligo as we strive to increase connectivity in this area through the construction of new motorway, duel carriageway and national Primary road realignments.

"For the cost of a few town by-passes this inter-regional railway could be revitalised and compliment the road network, as is the case on the east coast and between the East and South coasts." He also stressed the potential of rail freight with the re-opening of the Galway line and consequent links to the ports and cites of the West and South coasts. Minister Canney also said there was an opportunity for a light gauge/Luas type rail service from Derry to Letterkenny.

"This connection could form a longer term connection to the West on Track ambition to go as far as Sligo," he said. He stressed that tourism numbers would continue to grow in the North West as the Wild Atlantic Way grew. "Connecting the Causeway Coast to the Wild Atlantic way in Donegal by rail would make sense.

"Under the TENS T network (including after Brexit) Europe will have an obligation to the most peripheral North Western region within the European Union. What better way to mark that commitment than connecting rail from Derry into Letterkenny and continuing south?" he asked.

He said public/private partnerships could be explored to finance this section. The Galway East TD's proposals have the support of a several Ministers of State and Dail Deputies and Senators. Councillor Declan Bree said: "Rail has a huge role to play as an economic driver in terms of bringing about balanced regional development. In addition, the light rail network can form part of a longer term connection to the west on track plan to re-open the Sligo to Limerick railway line. In this region we have no idea how Brexit will affect us.

"However, support for the development of a light rail network connecting us with our northern neighbours will certainly send out the right message. People tend to forget the enormous amount of money required to subsidise the cost of building and maintaining roads," said Cllr Bree.
A 23-year-old man who was ordered to pay compensation to another man who was subjected to a vicious assault, didn't come up with any money, Sligo Circuit Court heard.

Before the Court was Gary Philips of Kilmacoo Avenue, Dublin Road, Athlone and formerly of Maryville, Sligo who admitted at a previous sitting of the court assaulting Kyle Casey, causing him harm at Avondale on April 8th 2014.

That court heard from a Garda who arrived on the scene that he didn't recognise Casey, whom he knew, he was so badly beaten about the face by the defendant and another man who is still before the courts having also been charged with assault.

Mr Casey suffered a broken eye socket, fractures to facial bones, two black eyes and a small bleed to his brain following the assault at a house in the estate.

Ricky Pugh, Maryville, Finisklin and Gary Philips of West End Village, Blanchardstown, Dublin both admitted a charge of assault causing harm to Mr Casey. The men had been drinking together in the house where Pugh's sister lived.

Mr Casey went to the house around 11pm and was drinking and chatting in the sitting room. Other people had gone to bed, leaving Mr Casey and the defendants downstairs.

Mr Casey told Gardai that out of the blue he was struck with a bottle four or five times by Philips after there had been "some slagging."

On receiving a call from the public Gardai went to the estate and came across Mr Casey on the green area of the estate. "He was unrecognisable to me from his injuries even though I knew him. His face was badly swollen and bruised and I asked him for his name," said Garda James Conneely.

At last week's sitting of the Circuit Court, Ms Dara Foynes BL (prosecuting) with State Solicitor Mr Hugh Sheridan told Judge Keenan Johnson (pictured) that he had set compensation at 2,500 for Mr Casey and he was to have 500 in court as a first instalment. The previous court was told the defendant was working part-time as a chef.

Mr Joe Barnes BL with Mr Gerard McGovern, solicitor (for Philips) said the defendant had no money in court for his victim. There was a probation report prepared.

"He has engaged with the probation services and is taking the matter very seriously. He is determined to co-operate with the court and is engaging with the addiction services and is doing his best to rehabilitate himself," said Mr Barnes.

Judge Johnson asked Mr Barnes why the defendant didn't have any money in court for Mr Casey.

Mr Barnes replied that the defendant earned 100 a week in social welfare with 70 of that going out on rent and maintenance for his child. However, he was starting a course which would see his welfare payment rise to 160 a week.

"His employment status is somewhat erratic," said Mr Barnes who added that the defendant was hoping to have 500 by the end of March.

Judge Johnson adjourned the case to March 28th for payment of 500.

"If he doesn't have that sum then he can come to court with his bag packed and I want another 500 to 600 in court in July," said the Judge.
South Sligo has been plunged into mourning following the sudden death of 19-year-old Niland Lisa from Drimbane, Curry.

Lisa passed away at Beaumont Hospital, Dublin last Friday.

She had been flown by helicopter to the hospital from Sligo University Hospital where she had been taken by ambulance after becoming ill suddenly while in a restaurant in Sligo.

Her sudden passing has devastated her family, friends and the community of South Sligo.

A keen GAA supporter, there was a minute's silence observed in Lisa's memory prior to Sunday's FBD match between Sligo and Leitrim which was played in Tourlestrane.

Lisa's uncle, John Niland is a well known leading local and GAA referee attached to the Curry club and who officiated a number of senior County Finals as well as Junior and Senior All Ireland Ladies finals at Croke Park. A student at University of Limerick since September 2015, Lisa was also a past pupil of St Attracta's Community College in Tubbercurry. Lisa has been described as popular and much loved by her fellow students.

It is understood that Lisa was eating at the McDonald's restaurant at Carraroe Retail Park last week when she complained of feeling unwell.

An ambulance was called and she was brought to Sligo University Hospital. It is believed Lisa spent a number of days in hospital in Sligo. She was subsequently transferred by helicopter to the Beaumont Hospital in Dublin where she passed away surrounded by family members on Friday.

Her Remains will repose at St. Threase's Funeral Home Curry Village, today (Tuesday) from 4pm to 8pm.

Lisa's Remains will arrive on Wednesday morning at The Church of The Immaculate Conception, Curry for funeral Mass at 12 noon. Burial afterwards will be in Bunnacrannagh Cemetery, Curry.

Lisa is survived by her parents, Angela and Gerry, her sister and best friend Amy, and her boyfriend Johnny Flannery of Bunninadden. Lisa is also sadly missed by her grandparents, Mai and Tom (Niland), Annie Gara (Lisacul), grand-uncles and grand-aunts, uncles, aunts, cousins, neighbours and many close friends at home and in the University of Limerick.
Carnew is to play host to the confined section of the All Ireland Drama finals in 2018.

It was announced this week that the South Wicklow Drama Festival has been selected to host the Amateur Drama Council of Ireland event for the first time in its history.

The festival will run at St Brigid's Hall, Carnew, from April 13 to 21, 2018.

A spokesperson for the committee said that the festival heralds a real opportunity for Carnew and the county to showcase everything that is good in the area.

The South Wicklow Drama Festival takes place each year in March, and this year, it will run from March 24 to April 1.

Since it was founded in 2005, the festival has gone from strength to strength, enjoying many full houses.

The announcement that Carnew will host the All Ireland has been met with great approval by the committee, business people, community groups and many theatre lovers in the area.

The adjudicator for the 2018 final will be Tom Byrne, ADA, from Celbridge, Co. Kildare. He is a much sought after director and the committee looks forward to working with him in 2018.

The event will bring some of the best amateur productions from across the country to Carnew, all competing for the much coveted Clare Galway All Ireland trophy.

This award was last in the area when it was won by Kilrush Drama Group with their production of Billy Roche's 'Poor Beast in the Rain' in 2015.
Wicklow Montessori Primary School are Kings and Queens of the Robot Wars after finishing top in a challenge based on a real-world scientific problem.

Eight pupils attending the Wicklow town school were the overall winners of the Robotics First Lego League 2017.

The winning pupils were Charlie Clarke, Lucy Doherty, Luke Fitzpatrick, Michael Mooney, Ava Paris Neiland, Ciara Nolan, Callum O'Reilly and Daniel Walton.

The students travelled to Galway on Saturday to compete with 23 schools from all over Ireland consisting of 208 children in all.

The 11-year-olds' achievement is made all the more remarkable considering they were competing against some students aged up to 16 years of age.

Each Challenge has three parts: the Robot Game, the Project, and the Core Values.

Teams participate in the Challenge by programming an autonomous robot to score points on a themed playing field (Robot Game), developing a solution to a problem they have identified (Project), all guided by the First Lego League Core Values.

The Montessori entry focused on how we as humans interact with animals.

The problem they identified was the cost of equine therapy for families who have a child with autism and the fact there are no such facilities in Wicklow town and surrounding area, the nearest location being Festina Lente in Bray.

'The pupils really got behind the project and put a huge amount of work in,' says their teacher Erika Gallagher.

'It was quite an achievement to be considered the best group out of 23 and now they can't wait for the international finals.'

The winning team will now travel to Bath in the UK this June where they will represent Ireland alongside 29 other countries in the International Competition Finals.
The large crowd at the protest of the upcoming closure of Glendalough post office, Laragh

Around 200 people attended Saturday's public protest calling for a postponement to the decision to close Laragh Post Office.

Protesters want to allow time for consultation and discussions with all interested groups so as to afford local residents an opportunity to demonstrate how vital the post office is to the local community.

Three public meetings have already been held, including one last night (Tuesday, January 24) in the Brockagh Resource Centre.

Two hundred specially designed postcards calling for the post office to remain open were posted to Communications Minister Denis Naughten, while local school children designed their own cards making the same demand.

Residents are particularly angered at the lack of consultation which took place prior to the announcement that the post office would be closing next Tuesday, January 31.

An Post maintain that posters were placed in the post offices in Laragh, Roundwood and Rathdrum inviting the public to have their say, but regular users insist that no such poster was ever in place at the Laragh Post Office.

Deputy Pat Casey said: 'No one who regularly frequents the post office ever saw the poster and never at any stage had it pointed out to them. Even An Post acknowledge they never received one submission. That in itself raises questions over the so-called consultancy period.

'If we knew in November that there was a potential for a closure then we could have done something, rather than only finding out now, leaving us with a couple of weeks to scramble around and try and keep the post office open.'

Deputy Casey also addressed the issue in the Dail, stressing that Laragh has had a post office for over 150 years.

'An Post is about to close a Post Office in Laragh where there are 1.2 to 1.5 million visitors a year. Most businesses I know would break their necks trying to get access to such a potential market - An Post, no - close the office and do it over the Christmas period so nobody will notice,' he said in the Dail. 'Well the people of Laragh noticed Minister and I commend them for their swift actions in defence of this service. When I arranged a meeting with Officials from An Post, I was told that they were indeed surprised at the lack of feedback from the Public consultation period. I informed them that this was because the public were not consulted and this reason alone should delay this decision.'

People have volunteered to step in and run the post office in the short-term until a long-term solution has been evaluated.

Cllr Shay Cullen said: 'This post office is an essential part of the local community. If every shop, post office and Garda Station are closed then we will be left with nothing in rural locations.'

Cllr Daire Nolan works in the post office in Newtownmountkennedy and said the reported closure of Laragh Post Office cut him 'close to the bone.'

'I work in a family-run business but sadly when you are involved with An Post these days you are constantly looking over your shoulder.'

Cllr John Snell said a lack of public transport in Laragh would make it difficult for customers to travel to the nearest post offices in Rathdrum and Roundwood.

Cllr John Snell said that while a notice was put up in the post offices in Rathdrum and Roundwood, no one could recalls seeing a similar notice in Laragh, which he described as 'total madness'.

'An Post have admitted this is the first time that not one single observation was made. It has to be re-advertised,' he said.
Performers present a lion dance during Chinese Lunar New Year celebrations in New York's China Town

Chinese communities around the globe are preparing to launch their new year celebrations for the most important holiday in the Chinese calendar.

Starting from 28 January, the colourful celebrations to welcome in the year of the rooster will continue for around two weeks, ending on 2 February.

Here's everything you need to know about the 2017 Chinese New Year:

What is Chinese New Year?

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Chinese New Year is the longest national holiday in China and New Year's day is the most important date in the Chinese calendar.

Although China has used the Gregorian calendar since 1912, Chinese New Year is based on the ancient Chinese lunar calendar, falling on the second new moon after winter solstice, meaning it changes each year.

It is pronounced Gong Xi Fa Cai in Mandarin and Gong Hey Fat Choy in Cantonese, although both are written the same way.

Roughly a sixth of the world will observe Chinese New Year, with celebrations in Taiwan, Singapore and Malaysia, along with other countries with significant Chinese populations.

London and San Francisco both claim to host the largest celebrations outside of Asia.

How is it celebrated?

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Many celebrations take place, including parades, dragon dances, reunions and elaborate dinners.

Red clothing is considered essential, as it is said to scare off the mythical monster Nian.

Children are traditionally given red envelopes with money inside which they sleep with under their pillows, which is said to bring them good fortune and happiness.

Cleaning the house on the twentieth day of the second lunar month before the New Year, and subsequent house decorating, are both major rituals in the run up to New Year.

Each day has its own celebration: while on Day 2 it is traditional to visit friends and relatives, on Day 3 people tend to stay at home as it is not seen as auspicious to socialise.

The final day, Day 15, sees the Lantern Festival, where red Chinese lanterns are released into the sky.

What does the year of the rooster mean?

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2017 is the year of the tenth Chinese zodiac, the rooster.

The year's of the rooster include 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993 and 2005.

However, this is the year of the fire rooster.

Those born in 1957 or 2017 are fire roosters, and are considered trustworthy, with a strong sense of timekeeping and responsibility at work.

They are also thought to be talkative, popular in a crowd and loyal.

Their lucky numbers are thought to be five, seven and eight, and their lucky colours gold, brown and yellow.

Fire roosters are recommended to avoid the colour red and their unlucky numbers: one, three and nine.

The rooster will be followed by the dog in 2018 and the pig in 2019.
Tourists gather in front of the Sagrada Familia church, designed by architect Antoni Gaudi, in Barcelona (AP/Manu Fernandez)

Protesters have held a rally in Barcelona over claims that the tourism boom is out of control and damaging local people's experience of the Spanish city.

Soaring tourism has fuelled higher rents and property sales, leaving many of the city's 1.6 million residents priced out of the centre.

Under a large banner reading "Barcelona is not for sale", protesters marched and read a manifesto in which they denounced the tourist boom they say has overtaken the city.

Police said over 1,000 people demonstrated in the famed central walkway of Las Ramblas, while protesters estimated the total as closer to 2,000.

Camilo Ramos, 63, of the Barcelona Neighbours Association, said: "This march is a way to portray the fact that we have lost our city, and are hoping to claim it back.

"Rent and property prices have risen back to what they were in 2008, before the economic crisis, and residents can no longer afford them."

Despite fierce opposition from hotel and business owners, the City Council agreed on Friday to curb the number of rooms for tourists in the city.

Anna Moreno, a 59-year-old school professor on the march, said: "It was a necessary measure, but it's still not enough.

"We need to decrease the number of hotels and increase public space for residents."

Asha Nen, a visiting 35-year-old French engineering assistant, watched the scene from a distance.

"We are enjoying our stay, although it's true that the city is quite full. Some locals seem to be weary of us tourists," she said.

AP
There may be no safer country than this island of fjords, Bjork and Arctic calm. This is Iceland, where police are often unarmed and people walk safely at all hours of the night - just as Birna Brjansdottir was doing 10 days ago when she disappeared.

And then her Doc Martens turned up near a dock, and the 20-year-old's blood was found in a car. And then there were drones over Iceland, and helicopters and arrests on the open sea.

And then, last Sunday, her body was found on a beach.

Now, there is weeping in the capital and candles in the snow, as a country that has gone full years without murders asks who, why, how?

"How can such a thing happen in our peaceful Iceland?" a columnist wrote in the 'Iceland Monitor', which has been following the case beat by beat, like seemingly everyone else on this island of some 330,000 people.

"If you are not familiar with the family, you know someone who is," the columnist Soley Bjork Gudmundsdottir wrote. "This whole affair feels personal."

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It has felt that way for nearly two weeks, since security cameras along a downtown street in Reykjavik captured Ms Brjansdottir's last known footsteps.

She zagged down a sidewalk in the predawn hours of January 14 - she was just past a break-up, her parents said, and leaving a club after an annual indie band festival.

A kebab in her hand, swaying, she nearly careened into two people, who barely took notice.

She continued down an empty block, auburn hair shimmying on her shoulders, past a storefront's flashing red light. Then out of the frame. Then nothing.

Expand Close Birna Brjansdottir is captured on CCTV walking down a street in Reykjavik on the night she disappeared. Photo: Reykjavik Metropolitan Police / Facebook

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Whatsapp Birna Brjansdottir is captured on CCTV walking down a street in Reykjavik on the night she disappeared. Photo: Reykjavik Metropolitan Police

The very worst things are rare in Iceland, which sees fewer than two murders a year on average, and sometimes none. The Institute for Economics and Peace, an Australia-based think tank, ranks it as the world's most peaceful country.

Icelandic police even apologised after killing a man in 2013 - the first time they had ever shot anyone.

Within hours of Ms Brjansdottir's disappearance, people began to worry.

"Where is Birna?" her mother pleaded, according to the 'Monitor'.

Police asked for help in Icelandic and English.

They traced her mobile phone to a town 20 minutes down the coast from Reykjavik, where someone had turned it off, according to the 'Monitor'.

There, they found her shoes in the port. A coast guard helicopter began to search town and countryside.

Meanwhile, Agence France-Presse reported, another helicopter carried Iceland's elite police force out to sea.

They were after the Polar Nanoq, a ship that had set sail from the same port where Ms Brjansdottir's shoes were found, on the same day she went missing.

Two sailors on the trawler had rented a car on the night of her disappearance, police said. She had walked right past the car after leaving the club.

Police seized the ship, along with a stash of cannabis on board, and brought it back to Iceland.

When they took the two sailors in for questioning, police put towels over their heads to hide them from the eyes of a nation.

Both men were from Greenland, just across the Norwegian Sea. As news of their arrest and interrogations spread, Iceland President Gudni Johannesson had to warn his citizens against becoming prejudiced against their neighbour.

Ms Brjansdottir had been missing a full week by Saturday, when Iceland launched what the 'Monitor' called the largest search operation in the country's history.

The search found nothing, but police found blood in the sailors' rented car.

Iceland prepared for the worst.

It came last Sunday, when a coast guard helicopter flying over a rocky peninsula spotted something near a lighthouse. A body.

"The police believe Birna was murdered in a rental car," the 'Monitor' reported.

On that long, cold night, candles burned on two sides of the Norwegian Sea - in Iceland's capital and outside its consulate in Nuuk, Greenland, the red candles buried in snow.

"Everyone in Greenland is talking about this. Every home, everyone on every street corner," a woman told the 'Monitor'.

"Not one person that I have spoken to in recent days has been untouched by the case," a journalist wrote in the paper.

And so a country stopped searching for one of its own and began searching for answers.

It has found none so far. But on Monday, the 'Monitor' reported that Icelandic police said they were looking into a possible link between Ms Brjansdottir's death and that of a 17-year-old who disappeared from a quiet town in Denmark last summer and turned up dead in a lake.

Already, those safe northern waters seem colder.
He added that Britain would be able to reach "free trade deals without somebody watching you and what you are doing."

Trump said he strongly supports Britain's "Brexit" vote to pull out of the European Union. "I think Brexit is going to be a wonderful thing for your country," he said.

"Today the United States renews our deep bond with Britain  military, financial, cultural and political. We have one of the great bonds," said the president. "We pledge our lasting support to this most special relationship. Together America and the United Kingdom are a beacon for prosperity and the rule of law. That is why the United States respects the sovereignty of the British people and their right of self-determination. A free and independent Britain is a blessing to the world and our relationship has never been stronger."

At a news conference following the leaders' meeting, Trump said Britain is especially close to his heart because his mother was from Scotland.

Trump has raised concerns in European capitals with statements that he has made saying NATO is obsolete and that other members need to start paying their share for their own defense.

In his first meeting with a foreign leader, U.S. President Donald Trump spoke of the two nations' "special relationship," and British Prime Minister Theresa May agreed, mentioning common economic interests and shared values, but pointedly saying the new president had pledged he is "100 percent" behind NATO.

 U.S. relationships

When reporters in the ornate White House East Room questioned the leaders, there were queries about Trump's controversial stands on Mexico and Russia.

When asked whether he would lift sanctions after a planned phone call Saturday with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Trump said it is very early to be talking about sanctions. Trump stressed he "looks to have a great relationship with all countries," mentioning that this includes China.

Answering the same question, May said Britain wants to see sanctions against Russia continued until there is full implementation of the Minsk Agreement -- provisions to end the fighting between pro-Russian rebels and Ukraine.

 NATO

May said one of the most important areas where the two countries are working together is the fight against the Islamic State group. She also surprised some by saying Trump told her he supports NATO, the trans-Atlantic security alliance.

"On defense and security cooperation, we are united in our recognition of NATO as the bulwark of our collective defense and today we've reaffirmed our unshakable commitment to this alliance. Mr. President, I think, you said -- confirmed that you're 100 percent behind NATO," said May.

"But we're also discussing the importance of NATO continuing to ensure it is as equipped to fight terrorism and cyber warfare as it is to fight more conventional forms of war," she said. "And I've agreed to continue my efforts to encourage my fellow European leaders to deliver on their commitments, to spend 2 percent of their GDP on defense so that the burden is more fairly shared. It's only by investing properly in our defense that we can ensure we're properly equipped to face our shared challenges together."

Asked about his comments that torture works to fight terrorism, Trump said he does believe that, but he said he would defer to his incoming Secretary of Defense, retired General James Mattis.

 Trade, UN funding

The British Embassy said May presented Trump with a Scottish artifact, a "Quaich, which is a cup symbolizing welcome and kinship. She also presented a gift for first lady Melania Trump, a "hamper" full of special produce, including marmalade and tarts.

Both Trump and May have taken steps to reform their international relations, particularly through trade. Britain's pending exit from the European Union and Trump's withdrawal from the 12-nation Trans-Pacific Partnership will necessitate negotiating new trade agreements throughout the world.

May's plan for the EU exit includes placing a priority on controlling immigration, although she has not yet announced any policy details. Earlier, White House spokesman Sean Spicer said Trump has not yet decided whether he will cut funding to international organizations, like the United Nations, after media reports suggested the president was looking to reduce the role of the U.S. within those organizations.

On Thursday, May spoke to a gathering of U.S. Republican leaders in Philadelphia where she said the days of the U.S. and Britain intervening in other nations to remake them in their image are over.

May said it is in British and American interests to defend their values, but not go back to what she called the "failed policies of the past. But nor can we afford to stand idly by when the threat is real and when it is in our own interests to intervene. We must be strong, smart and hard-headed."

May also called for reform in such multinational institutions as the UN and NATO "to make them more relevant and purposeful."

She said their members have to stop leaning on the United States. "Sovereign countries cannot outsource their security and prosperity to America. And they should not undermine the alliances that keep us strong by failing to step up and play their part."

In Philadelphia on Thursday, May said a Trump presidency can make the U.S. "stronger, greater and more confident," which she said is good for the rest of the world. She underscored that British and American conservatives share the same principles.


Prime Minister Theresa May at a press conference in Ankara, Turkey with the Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim. (Image: Stefan Rousseau/PA Wire)

Prime Minister Theresa May at a press conference in Ankara, Turkey with the Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim. (Image: Stefan Rousseau/PA Wire)

Prime Minister Theresa May at a press conference in Ankara, Turkey with the Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim

Prime Minister Theresa May at a press conference in Ankara, Turkey with the Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim (Image: Stefan Rousseau/PA Wire)

Theresa May and her Turkish counterpart have announced a 100 million-plus defence collaboration deal on the continued development of fighter jets for Turkey.

The announcement comes during the Prime Minister's one-day visit to the Turkish capital Ankara, where she became the first Western leader to meet president Recep Tayyip Erdogan since last year's attempted coup.

Mrs May told the president that Britain stood with his defence of Turkey's democracy, but warned him it was "important" for him to uphold human rights.

Speaking to Mr Erdogan as they addressed the press at his presidential palace, Mrs May said: "Turkey is one of the UK's oldest friends, our relations stretch back over 400 years but there is much that we can do in the future to bulid on that relationship together.

"I'm proud the UK stood with you on July 15 last year in defence of your democracy. Now it's important that Turkey sustains that democracy by maintaining the rule of law and upholding its international human rights obligations, as the government has undertaken to do."

Mrs May had come under pressure to raise human rights issues with the Turkish president, who has imposed a state of emergency involving waves of arrests, the closure of numerous media outlets and the removal of thousands of public officials - including judges, academics and teachers - from their jobs.

Speaking before the PM's arrival in Turkey, Amnesty International's UK director Kate Allen said the visit was a "vital opportunity" for Mrs May to ask "probing questions" about allegations of excessive use of force and ill-treatment of detainees by Mr Erdogan's security forces.

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The human rights situation in Turkey had "deteriorated markedly" during the state of emergency imposed after last July's botched coup, said Amnesty.

Mrs May and Mr Erdogan also discussed counter-terrorism, security, trade and migration in talks which stretched for an hour longer than scheduled.

During the visit, the UK-based BAE Systems and Turkish Aerospace Industries signed a Heads of Agreement document establishing a partnership for the continued development of the Turkish Fighter Programme (TF-X).

British officials said the contract would safeguard high-skill jobs at BAE Systems and could lead to opportunities worth billions of pounds over the lifetime of the project, with potential future contracts to provide engines, weapons, radars and sensors.

It was hoped the deal would pave the way for a deeper defence partnership, effectively making the UK Turkey's partner of choice for key aerospace technology.

Mrs May, who has made preparations for closer post-Brexit trading links her top priority for the Turkey trip, said: "This agreement underlines once again that Britain is a great, global, trading nation and that we are open for business.

"It marks the start of a new and deeper trading relationship with Turkey and will potentially secure British and Turkish jobs and prosperity for decades to come."

BAE Systems chief executive Ian King added: "The announcement signals an exciting next step in relations between both Turkey and the UK with the co-operation between BAE Systems and TAI paving the way for a deeper defence partnership.

"The agreement confirms ongoing collaborative work on the design and development of the aircraft."

The contract was announced by Mrs May with Turkish PM Binali Yildirim, following talks at his ministry building. The pair also signed an agreement on aviation security.

Mrs May was greeted at Mr Yildirim's ministry by a guard of honour and a military band playing the national anthems of both countries.

As part of the welcome ceremony, Mrs May addressed the troops in Turkish, saying "Merhaba Asker" - "Hello soldiers" - to which they bellowed the reply "Sagol", or "thank you".

Mrs May shook hands with Mr Yildirim before they entered the ministry building together.

Mrs May confirmed that Britain and Turkey are to set up a joint working group to prepare the ground for their post-Brexit trading relationship.

Mr Erdogan said he hoped to increase trade between the two countries from 15.6 billion US dollars to 20 billion (12.4 billion to 15.9 billion).

He said he hoped to see "further co-operation", particularly in energy and defence, including predator drones, which he had discussed with Mrs May.

The pair also discussed efforts to reunite Cyprus and to tackle the threat of the Islamic State terror group in Syria.
The popularity of Francois Fillon, the conservative until now tipped to be France's next president, has tumbled after press allegations that his British wife was paid half-a-million euro for a fake job as his parliamentary assistant.

The fresh poll came as Alain Juppe, the former prime minister Mr Fillon beat in party primaries for their Republicans party in November, ruled out replacing him should he step down over the scandal.

An Oxoda poll conducted after Wednesday's report in 'Le Canard Enchaine' suggested Mr Fillon has lost 16 points in approval ratings since November, when he was picked to run for the Republicans, France's main centre-right party, in presidential elections on April 23 and May 7.

While a majority of French, some 54pc, approved of Mr Fillon in November, the poll conducted on Thursday suggested his approval ratings had slumped to 38pc.

According to 'Le Canard', Penelope Fillon was paid 500,000 in public money as her husband's parliamentary assistant, but there is no evidence she did any work. She was, it went on, paid a further 100,000 for a sinecure publishing job provided by a billionaire friend of her husband's.

That prompted financial prosecutors to open a preliminary investigation on Thursday, though Mr Fillon and his wife will be placed under formal judicial investigation or face charges only if prosecutors find there is substance to the claims.

With "Penelope-gate" snowballing, Mr Fillon took to prime time television news on Thursday night to insist the work she did over more than eight years from 1997 was "real, legal and completely transparent".

Describing Mrs Fillon's work at his constituency in western France, he said she had "corrected speeches, met important visitors . . . and chaired meetings".

He pledged to keep campaigning unless charged.

"Only one thing would prevent me from being a candidate: it's if my honour was harmed, if I were placed under formal investigation by a judge," he told French TV station TF1. Even if that were to happen, his rival in party primaries, Mr Juppe, yesterday said he "definitively" ruled out replacing him in the presidential race.

Legal experts suggested Mr Fillon was highly unlikely to be formally investigated in the short term.

"I don't imagine for a second that this case will be resolved before the presidential election," Eric Alt, vice-president of Anticor, an anti-corruption group, told the 'Huffington Post'.

"As no investigating magistrate has been appointed, nobody has the power to place him under formal investigation."

Before the scandal broke, polls suggested that far-right candidate Marine Le Pen and Mr Fillon were ahead in the presidential race, with both commanding more than 25pc support in the first round.

In third place was maverick centrist Emmanuel Macron, who has gained ground and his support now stands at almost 20pc.

However, the new poll suggests the allegations could damage Mr Fillon's presidential prospects as the candidate of rigour and integrity.

Telegraph Media Group Limited [2022]
An ex-KGB chief suspected of helping the former MI6 spy Christopher Steele to compile his dossier on Donald Trump may have been murdered by the Kremlin and his death covered up, it's been claimed.

Oleg Erovinkin, a former general in the KGB and its successor the FSB, was found dead in the back of his car in Moscow on December 26 in mysterious circumstances.

Mr Erovinkin was a key aide to Igor Sechin, a former deputy prime minister and now head of Rosneft, the state-owned oil company, who is repeatedly named in the dossier.

He has been described as a key liaison between Mr Sechin and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Mr Steele wrote in an intelligence report dated July 19, 2016, he had a source close to Mr Sechin, who had disclosed alleged links between Mr Trump's supporters and Moscow.

The death of Mr Erovinkin has prompted speculation it is linked to Mr Steele's explosive dossier, which was made public earlier this month. Mr Trump has dismissed the dossier as "fake news" and no evidence has emerged to support its lurid claims.

The Russian state-run RIA Novosti news agency reported Mr Erovinkin's body was "found in a black Lexus . . . a large-scale investigation has been commenced in the area."

No cause of death has been confirmed and the FSB continues to investigate. Media reports suggested his death was a result of foul play. It was later claimed he died of a heart attack.

Christo Grozev, an expert on Russia-related security threats, believes Mr Erovinkin is the key source to whom Mr Steele refers in his dossier. Mr Grozev said on a blog: "Insiders have described Erovinkin to me alternately as 'Sechin's treasurer' and 'the go-between between Putin and Sechin'."

Mr Grozev, of Risk Management Lab, a think-tank in Bulgaria, said: "I have no doubt that at the time Erovinkin died, Mr Putin had Mr Steele's Trump dossier on his desk. He would - arguably - have known whether the alleged . . . story is based on fact or fiction.

"Whichever is true, he would have had a motive to seek - and find the mole. He would have had to conclude that Erovinkin was at least a person of interest."

Mr Steele (52) remains in hiding following his unmasking as the author of the Trump dossier.

Telegraph Media Group Limited [2022]
Benoit Harmon is the surprise front-runner for the Socialist presidential candidacy

Hard-left Socialist rebel Benoit Hamon is heading into France's left-wing presidential primary as a surprising favourite to beat the pro-business pragmatist Manuel Valls.

Mr Hamon finished top in the first round of the contest, which will realign France's unpredictable presidential campaign, with 36% of the votes.

He proposes a "determined and optimistic leftist alternative".

The left-winger's most talked-about proposal is a 750 euro (637) "universal income" that would be gradually granted to all adults.

Mr Harmon is now backed by another left-wing candidate, Arnaud Montebourg, who was eliminated from the race with 17.5% of the votes.

Mr Valls, who came second with 31.4%, criticised Mr Hamon's "unrealistic" promises.

A former junior minister and briefly education minister, Mr Hamon left the government in 2014 and led a group of rebel Socialist MPs who opposed the government's economic policies.

He told a rally near Paris on Friday: "Yesterday's failed solutions have no reason to become successes tomorrow."

Ten French economists, including Thomas Piketty - author of the best-seller Capital In The Twenty-First Century - have published an article to argue that the universal income can be "relevant and innovative".

They wrote: "Properly conceived and detailed, the universal living income can be a key element for reshaping our social model."

Mr Valls has tried to capitalise on his experience as prime minister from 2014 to 2016, despite his association with unpopular president Francois Hollande.

Mr Valls promotes "authority and security" values with the country still under threat from potential terror attacks.

He said he represents a "credible left" seeking a balance between France's social model and reforms adapting the country to globalisation.

"I don't want to be the candidate of the taxes; I leave that to my adversary," Mr Valls said in a rally near Paris.

"I want to be the candidate of work value, of jobs, with a clear and serious roadmap offering a future to the French people."

The French Socialist party has been torn for years between advocates of a radical left, including Mr Hamon and Mr Montebourg, and others sharing centre-left views, like Mr Valls and Mr Hollande.

Divisions are so deep that if Mr Hamon wins on Sunday, some supporters of Mr Valls are expected to back centrist figure Emmanuel Macron, who is campaigning for president as an independent candidate.

However, early polls show that whatever the outcome of Sunday's vote, the Socialist nominee is currently ranking in fifth position in the race for the French presidency.

Far-right leader Marine Le Pen and conservative leader Francois Fillon appear to be far ahead, followed by Mr Macron and far-left figure Jean-Luc Melenchon.

Another sign of the Socialist party's struggle is that the first round was marred by irregularities in the vote count.

Results were not in dispute, but the number of voters was. Observers suspected organisers of trying to increase it artificially in order to give their future nominee more legitimacy.

In the end, the party announced 1.6 million voters last week. This compares to four million people who cast ballots at the conservative primary in November.

The primary is open to all voters who pay one euro and sign a document saying they share the left's values.

AP
New president Adama Barrow arrives in the Westfield area of Serrekunda in Gambia (AP/Sylvain Cherkaoui)

The Gambia official accused of overseeing the torture of prisoners under former leader Yahya Jammeh has been arrested, police in Senegal say.

Borra Colley was arrested on Wednesday while trying to make his way to Guinea Bissau, a statement said.

He had been director of the notorious Mile Two prison.

He also led the Jungulars, Mr Jammeh's personal military of some 50 officers who reportedly went into exile with him last weekend in Equatorial Guinea.

Some former Gambian officials fled the country during the political crisis that ended this week with the arrival of new president Adama Barrow.

AP
Mexican business magnate Carlos Slim holds a book by Donald Trump during a press conference calling for 'national unity' in the face of the US president's hostility (AP)

Top Mexican political figures are debating how to fight back against US president Donald Trump's aggressive stance on trade and immigration.

They have suggested the country could expel US law enforcement agents, stop detaining Central American migrants or no longer inspect north-bound lorries for drug shipments.

Some activist groups are also calling for a boycott of American brands.

Former president Felipe Calderon said "we have to design a policy of retaliation" for Mr Trump's proposed plans, which include making Mexico pay for the border wall he wants to build.

"We have to put US security issues under review ... including the presence of (US) agents" on Mexican soil, Mr Calderon said.

The comments came after current president Enrique Pena Nieto scrapped a planned meeting on Tuesday with Mr Trump after the American president tweeted that it would be better to cancel if Mexico was unwilling to pay for his proposed wall.

Ruben Aguilar, a political consultant who was spokesman for former president Vicente Fox, noted that Mexico had been stopping Central American migrants before they reached the US border "as part of the logic between two friendly countries".

He suggested that Mexico could say, "OK, I'm not going to stop Central Americans any more" and added: "Now if our two countries aren't friends any more, that is a card we could play to increase the pressure."

"Drugs are another" possible card, Mr Aguilar said, adding: "If you want to stop them with your wall, well we won't stop them any more, let them go through."

Mr Trump appeared to try to defuse the spat between the two countries on Friday, saying: "Great respect for Mexico, I love the Mexican people.

"We have really, I think, a very good relationship, the president and I, and we had a talk that lasted for about an hour this morning, and we are going to be working on a fair relationship."

The office of the Mexican president confirmed the call, calling it "constructive and productive", but did not specifically mention the wall or other policies proposed by Mr Trump.

Mr Pena Nieto's government instead stressed "the need for both countries to continue working together to stop the trafficking of drugs and the flow of illegal weapons".

"Both presidents recognised their clear and very public differences on this very sensitive issue, and agreed to solve those differences as part of an integrated discussion of all aspects of the bilateral relationship," Mr Pena Nieto's office said.

"The two presidents also agreed, for the moment, to no longer speak publicly about this controversial topic."

Mr Pena Nieto met Mexican politicians to discuss US relations.

"There will be constant communication between the federal executive and the Senate to define what actions to take," said Fernando Herrera of the conservative National Action Party.

Business magnate Carlos Slim called for "national unity" in the face of Mr Trump's hostility and said the country should have a measured response "without getting angry but without surrendering".

He called for a "modern, not protectionist" national programme of substituting imported products, the vast majority of which come from the United States, but stopped short of calling for a boycott of American goods.

"I think it is an error to think about boycotting companies," Mr Slim said. "What we should do instead is buy what is produced in Mexico."

A coalition of Mexican farm and consumer groups, however, did call for such a boycott when it raised the battle flag on January 18, two days before Mr Trump took office.

The campaign's slogan, "Consumers cry war!" echoes the first line of Mexico's national anthem as it calls on citizens to buy national products.

In a country where US chain restaurants, coffee shops and stores are now ubiquitous, social media users created long strings of hashtags such as #AdiosStarbucks #AdiosCostco, #AdiosWalmart, #AdiosMcDonalds, #AdiosProductosGringos , #ConsumoProductosMexicanos.

Peter Schechter, senior vice president for strategic initiatives at the Atlantic Council, said the dispute may awaken underlying currents of resentment in Mexico.

The US took away almost half of Mexico's territory in the 1848 Mexican-American War, though that historic resentment had faded in the last three decades.

"All this does is to solidify the view that an attempt to negotiate with the United States under this administration is impossible and that we should break from the United States," Mr Schechter said.

"This argument has moved from incredulous, to possible in people's minds. The next step is it moves from possible, to the right thing, and that step is not that far."

In a Washington Post opinion piece, former Mexican president Ernesto Zedillo said "the prudent thing" was to assume that Mr Trump would kill the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which he said would be costly to Mexico.

"But such an outcome should not be cause for despair in my country," he wrote, calling for Mexico to reinforce its commitment to openness and tell companies from around the world that it remained open for business.

"The end of Nafta, as disruptive and costly as it would be in the short term, could be compensated for with the right set of policies," Mr Zedillo wrote.

AP
Syrian refugees are reeling as they wait to learn the impact of Donald Trump's promise to close America's borders to people fleeing from Syria.

The new US president is expected to implement a blanket ban on all new refugees entering the US for the next four months, as well as halting visa applications for people from Syria and five other countries for the next 30 days.

The flurry of new orders from the White House has upended the lives of Syrian refugee families in Jordan who only a week ago were preparing to make new lives for themselves in America.

"Now I have to think again and make new plans. I have three kids and I need to find a good future for them," said Abu Mohammad, a 29-year-old father of three from Daraa, southern Syria.

After four years in Jordan, Mr Mohammad expected to travel to Houston, Texas, in February. His mother and sister are already there. Now, he said, the only trip on his radar was to the Amman office of the UN's International Organisation for Migration, where he will wait for news.

Mr Trump's ban on refugees came as Russia abruptly announced that the next round of Syrian peace talks was being postponed.

Expand Close Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov (centre) meets representatives of Syrias political opposition in Moscow yesterday. Photo: Getty / Facebook

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Whatsapp Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov (centre) meets representatives of Syrias political opposition in Moscow yesterday. Photo: Getty

Syria rebels and regime officials were due to gather in Geneva next week but Sergei Lavrov, the Russian foreign minister, said the talks were being pushed back until at least the end of February. He gave no explanation for the decision.

Rebels fighting to oust President Bashar Assad declined an invitation from Lavrov to meet in Moscow, raising doubts the meeting could offer something beyond another discussion panel on the nearly six-year-old conflict.

But several factions led an opposition delegation to talks with Russian and Turkish officials this week in Kazakhstan, as well as indirect talks with Syrian government representatives, in an attempt to shore up a shaky December 30 ceasefire with Assad's forces.

Meanwhile, Syrian rebel factions continue to fight against Jabhat Fateh al-Sham, an al-Qa'ida-linked jihadist group.

The violence in northern Syria is some of the worst infighting among opposition groups in recent years and has sent some smaller rebel groups into the arms of the hardline Islamist group Ahrar al-Sham in an effort to counterbalance the jihadists.

Aid officials in Jordan privately admitted to being angry and "terrified" at the tone of Mr Trump's first week in office but are not commenting in public out of fear of alienating the new administration.

For the UN, criticising US policy is a delicate proposition: the US is the single largest government donor to the UN's refugee agency, contributing $1.5bn (1.4bn) in 2016.

In Jordan, where the UN supports more than 650,000 Syrian refugees and runs two large camps in-country, plus a second camp on the Jordan-Syria border, any changes in refugee policy will be widely felt.

Under former President Barack Obama, the US reached its target of taking in 10,000 Syrian refugees in August 2016 but refugees continued to be screened and admitted from Jordan.

Next week, Jordan's King Abdullah II is scheduled to be in Washington DC, where he is expected to meet with members of the new administration and possibly also Mr Trump.

Like the UN, Jordan relies heavily on US funding, but the country also offers something in return: a long-standing Arab ally and a plenty of US military bases.

The complex relationship between Jordan and the US could be unsettled by another revelation from Washington this week. On Wednesday, Mr Trump said he "will absolutely do safe zones in Syria" for refugees fleeing violence in their country.

In Jordan, where rumours have swirled for years of safe zones along the country's border with Syria, refugees and aid workers say this possibility has put them on edge.

Authorities have long been clear that Jordan is overburdened by its Syrian population, and looks forward to the day it is safe for them to return home. The issue is whether a safe zone just inside the Syrian border would offer safety enough.

A UN spokesperson said the organization was reaching out to the US administration to get more detail and clarity on the matter. But one official, who was not authorised to discuss the matter, said he was "extremely sceptical".
US President Donald Trump and British Prime Minister Theresa May gesture towards each other during a news conference in the East Room of the White House in Washington yesterday. Photo: AP

Theresa May was determined to ensure her visit to the White House went smoothly. She had to get off on the right foot with Donald Trump, show him how keen Britain was to work with him and demonstrate that the UK is on his side. But first: the small matter of a joint news conference.

"Mr President," said the BBC's Laura Kuenssberg. "You've said torture works, you've praised Russia, you've said you want to ban some Muslims from coming to America, you've suggested there should be 'punishment' for abortion. For many people in Britain, those sound like alarming beliefs. What do you say to our viewers at home, who are worried about some of your views - and worried about you becoming leader of the free world?"

Mr Trump frowned at Ms Kuenssberg, and then stared at Ms May. "This was your choice of question?" he asked the prime minister. "There goes that relationship!" Not to worry, though. He was only joking.

The president seemed, by his standards, in relaxed, cheerful, even casual mood. He began the news conference by welcoming Ms May to the US, expressing his admiration for Britain and adding: "By the way - my mother was born in Scotland. Stornoway. Which is serious Scotland."

Then, after some amiable rambling about "this most special relationship", and what a "blessing" Britain was to the world, he declared it "a great honour" to hand over to "madam prime minister".

Ms May thanked him and spoke at length, and in some detail, about the talks they'd had so far, and what she hoped they would achieve. (In his own statement, Mr Trump had barely mentioned the talks at all.)

She finished. "Very nicely stated," murmured Mr Trump. Over to the press. The first question came from an American journalist and was about sanctions on Russia. The second question was Ms Kuenssberg's.

Mr Trump's reply, once he'd finished his little joke, was interesting. It barely addressed the question, and ignored the topics of Muslim immigration and abortion altogether.

That is hardly unusual at political press conferences. But normally when a politician doesn't answer a question, you infer they're dodging it on purpose. This, however, felt different. From the way the president burbled on, it was hard to avoid the impression he'd simply forgotten what the question was - but that he wasn't going to let this unduly bother him.

A journalist asked Mr Trump what he and Ms May could possibly have in common - the "vicar's daughter" and the "brash billionaire".

"Actually I'm not as brash as you might think," replied the president, the lights bouncing gently off his tangerine skin. "I'm a people person - and I think you are too, Theresa..." He pronounced it "Ter-ezza". She smiled, and didn't correct him. The people persons, it seemed, were off to a good start. ( Daily Telegraph, London)

Telegraph Media Group Limited [2022]
Iraqi immigrant Hameed Darwish stands with Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez (R) after being released at John F. Kennedy International Airport in Queens, New York, U.S., January 28, 2017. REUTERS/Andrew Kelly

Iraqi immigrant Hameed Darwish embraces Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez with Congressman Jerrold Nadler (R) after being released at John F. Kennedy International Airport in Queens, New York, U.S., January 28, 2017. REUTERS/Andrew Kelly

The US is facing legal action and calls to reverse his sweeping immigration restrictions as the measures come into effect at Irish airports and refugees have been detained in the US.

However, President Trump has said his executive order curbing immigration into the United States was not a ban on Muslims and was working out well.

"It's not a Muslim ban," Trump told reporters in the Oval Office at the White House. "It's working out very nicely. You see it at the airports, you see it all over."

The new Republican president on Friday put a four-month hold on allowing refugees into the United States and temporarily barred travelers from Syria and six other Muslim-majority countries. He said the moves would protect Americans from terrorism, in a swift and stern delivery on a campaign promise.

"We're going to have a very, very strict ban and we're going to have extreme vetting, which we should have had in this country for many years," Trump said.

On Saturday he also signed an executive action calling for a military plan to be drafted in the next 30 days, outlining how to defeat Islamic State.

"It is going to be very successful," Trump said as he signed the order in the Oval Office at the White House. A copy of the order was not immediately available but was expected to be released later.

In his first week in office Trump put a four-month hold on allowing refugees into the United States and temporarily barred travelers from Syria and six other Muslim-majority countries, saying the moves would help protect Americans from terrorist attacks.

He said his most sweeping use of his presidential powers would give his administration time to develop more stringent screening procedures for refugees, immigrants and visitors.

Vetting

"I'm establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America. Don't want them here," Trump said earlier on Friday at the Pentagon.

"We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people," he said.

The US Embassy in Dublin has advised people from the proscribed list of nations that the restrictions are in force at Irish airports. Officials have also advised those who had booked visa interviews not to attend.

"The Executive Order suspends visa issuance and entry into the United States of nationals of countries of particular concern (Iraq, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen), including dual nationals of these countries," the embassy said in a statement.

Embassy Statement on POTUS Executive Order Enhancing Public Safety in the Interior of the U.S. Read https://t.co/XTnDRX4jRU pic.twitter.com/Dk02fuznJA  U.S. Embassy Dublin (@USEmbassyDublin) January 28, 2017

"US Customs and Border Protection has implemented this provision at its Pre-Clearance facilities, including at Dublin and Shannon airports, as well as at Ports of Entry across the United States. Nationals of these countries, including dual nationals, who have already scheduled a visa interview at U.S. Embassy Dublin should not attend their appointment as we will not be able to proceed with the visa interview.

"We will announce any additional changes affecting travelers to the United States as soon as that information is available."

However, the embassy would not be drawn on whether any people had been denied access to US-bound flights.

Meanwhile, the UN and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) has called on President Donald Trump to continue the US' resettlement program which is "one of the most important in the world" for refugees.

The two agencies have issued a joint statement urging the US to continue allowing refugees entry.

"The needs of refugees and migrants worldwide have never been greater, and the U.S. resettlement program is one of the most important in the world," the agencies said.

"The longstanding U.S. policy of welcoming refugees has created a win-win situation: it has saved the lives of some of the most vulnerable people in the world who have in turn enriched and strengthened their new societies. The contribution of refugees and migrants to their new homes worldwide has been overwhelmingly positive."

Read More

Detained

In the US immigration lawyers have filed a lawsuit to block President Donald Trump's order halting the entry of refugees and foreign nationals from seven predominantly Muslim countries to the United States, saying numerous people have already been unlawfully detained.

The lawyers from numerous immigration organizations and the American Civil Liberties Union sued in federal court in Brooklyn, New York, on behalf of two Iraqi men, one a former U.S. government worker and the other the husband of a former U.S. security contractor.

The two men had visas to enter the United States but were detained on Friday night at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport, hours after Trump's executive order put a four-month hold on allowing refugees into the United States and temporarily barred travelers from Syria and six other Muslim-majority countries, the lawsuit said.

One of the plaintiffs, Hameed Khalid Darweesh, 53, worked for the U.S. Army and for a U.S. contractor in Iraq from 2003 to 2013 as an interpreter and engineer, the lawsuit said.

The other plaintiff, Haider Sameer Abdulkhaleq Alshawi, 33, is the husband of a woman who worked for a U.S. security contractor from 2006 to 2007 as an accountant, the lawsuit said.

Their "continued unlawful detention is part of a widespread pattern applied to many refugees and arriving aliens detained after the issuance of the January 27, 2017 executive order," the lawyers wrote.

Shortly before 18.00 on Irish time on Saturday Reuters reported that one of the two men, Hameed Khalid Darweesh, had been admitted entry into the US.

Barred

Meanwhile, five Iraqi passengers and one Yemeni were barred from boarding an EgyptAir flight from Cairo to New York on Saturday sources at Cairo airport said.

The passengers, arriving in transit to Cairo airport, were stopped and re-directed to flights headed for their home countries despite holding valid visas, the sources said.

The bans, though temporary, took effect immediately, causing havoc and confusion for would-be travelers with passports from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

Dutch airline KLM also said on Saturday it had refused carriage to the United States to seven passengers from the countries who are included in the ban.

A spokeswoman for KLM, part of the Franco-Dutch Air France KLM group, declined to specify which countries the passengers came from or where they were flying from.

"Worldwide, we had seven passengers whom we had to inform that there was no point in us taking them to the US.," said spokeswoman Manel Vrijenhoek. "There is still some lack of clarity about whom this ban affects.

A spokesperson for Homeland security said that even those who are legal US citizens were to be subjected to the new rules.

People holding so-called green cards, making them legal permanent U.S. residents, are included in President Donald Trump's executive action temporarily barring people from seven Muslim-majority countries from entering the United States, a Department of Homeland security spokeswoman said on Saturday.

"It will bar green card holders," Gillian Christensen, acting Department of Homeland Security spokeswoman, said in an email.

Read More

However, the UN and the IOM have urged the US to continue leading the way in providing resettlement for vulnerable refugees and migrants.

"Resettlement places provided by every country are vital. UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, and IOM, the International Organization for Migration, hope that the U.S. will continue its strong leadership role and long tradition of protecting those who are fleeing conflict and persecution," their statement reads.

"UNHCR and IOM remain committed to working with the U.S. administration towards the goal we share to ensure safe and secure resettlement and immigration programmes.

"We strongly believe that refugees should receive equal treatment for protection and assistance, and opportunities for resettlement, regardless of their religion, nationality or race.

"We will continue to engage actively and constructively with the U.S. Government, as we have done for decades, to protect those who need it most, and to offer our support on asylum and migration matters.

France and Germany have also expressed concern over the restrictions on immigrations.

"Welcoming refugees who flee war and oppression is part of our duty," French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault said at a joint news conference with German counterpart Sigmar Gabriel.

"The United States is a country where Christian traditions have an important meaning. Loving your neighbor is a major Christian value, and that includes helping people," said Gabriel.

"I think that is what unites us in the West, and I think that is what we want to make clear to the Americans."

Retaliation

Iran has condemned visa ban against Tehran and six other majority-Muslim countries as an "open affront against the Muslim world and the Iranian nation" and vowed to retaliate.

A Foreign Ministry statement carried by state media said Iran "would take appropriate consular, legal and political measures" against the ban, which was announced by President Donald Trump on Friday.

Additional reporting by Reuters
A Milan judge has ordered former Italian premier Silvio Berlusconi to be tried on corruption charges.

Judge Carlo Ottone De Marchi ordered the trial to begin on April 5 in Milan, said Italian news agency ANSA.

Milan daily Corriere della Sera said the former three-time premier is accused of having shelled out some 10 million euros (7.97m), plus expensive gifts, to 20 young women who attended sexy parties at his Arcore villa near Milan.

Mr Berlusconi's lawyers deny any wrongdoing by their client, saying he is being tried for his "generosity" to the women.

Prosecutors allege the centre-right leader opposition aimed to "buy" the women's silence in various trials involving him.

AP
There is concern within the Republican party over US sanctions on Russia being eased (AP)

US President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin have agreed to work closely together and boost ties between the powers, the Kremlin said.

In their first conversation since Mr Trump took office, the Kremlin said "both sides showed their readiness for active, joint work to stabilise and develop Russian-American cooperation".

There was no immediate comment from the White House.

The Kremlin said Mr Putin and Mr Trump will maintain "regular personal contact" and begin preparations for a face-to-face meeting.

Ahead of the call, Mr Trump was non-committal about whether he was considering lifting economic penalties against Russia, telling reporters on Friday: "We'll see what happens."

The European Union also levied sanctions on Russia following its provocations in Ukraine, while Prime Minister Theresa May said after a meeting with Mr Trump that the sanctions should continue.

Two US senate Republicans, John McCain and Rob Portman, are also warning the White House about easing any punishments on Moscow, vowing to turn the sanctions into law if necessary.

AP
The fall-out from President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown widened as residents and visa-holders from seven Muslim-majority countries who had left the United States found they could not return for 90 days.

It was a period of limbo for an unknown number of non-American citizens from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia or Yemen now barred from the country where they were studying or had lived, perhaps for years.

A federal law enforcement official who confirmed the temporary ban said there was an exemption for foreigners whose entry is in the US national interest. It was not immediately clear how that exemption might be applied.

Mr Trump's order exempts diplomats and t hose already in the US with a visa or green card will be allowed to stay.

Airlines were being notified by Customs and Border Protection about passengers they needed to prevent from flying.

Mr Trump's order barred all refugees from entering the US for four months, and indefinitely halted any from Syria. He said the ban was needed to keep out "radical Islamic terrorists".

The next group of refugees was due to arrive in the US on Monday, but the official said they would not be allowed into the country.

The president's order immediately suspended a programme that last year resettled in the US about 85,000 people displaced by war, political oppression, hunger and religious prejudice.

Mr Trump indefinitely blocked those fleeing Syria, where a civil war has raged, and imposed a 90-day ban on all immigration to the US from the seven Muslim majority nations.

"We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas," he said as he signed the order at the Pentagon. "We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people."

Mr Trump said the halt in the refugee programme was necessary to give agencies time to develop a stricter screening system.

While the order did not spell out what additional steps he wants the departments of Homeland Security and State to take, the president directed officials to review the refugee application and approval process and find any more measures that could prevent those who pose a threat from using the refugee programme.

The US may admit refugees on a case-by-case basis during the freeze, and the government will continue to process requests from people claiming religious persecution, "provided that the religion of the individual is a minority religion in the individual's country".

In an interview with CBN News, Mr Trump said persecuted Christians would be given priority in applying for refugee status.

"We are going to help them," Mr Trump said. "They've been horribly treated."

The order was signed on Mr Trump's most robust day of national security and foreign policy at the start of his presidency.

As a candidate, Mr Trump called for a temporary ban on all Muslim immigration to the US. He later shifted his focus to putting in place "extreme vetting" procedures to screen people coming to the US from countries with terrorism ties.

The State Department said the three-month ban in the directive applied to Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen - all Muslim-majority nations.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations said it would challenge the constitutionality of the executive order.

"There is no evidence that refugees - the most thoroughly vetted of all people entering our nation - are a threat to national security," said Lena Masri, the group's national litigation director. "This is an order that is based on bigotry, not reality."

During the past budget year, the US accepted 84,995 refugees, including 12,587 people from Syria. President Barack Obama had set the refugee limit for this budget year at 110,000.

According to Mr Trump's executive order, he plans to cut that to 50,000.

The International Rescue Committee called the suspension of the refugee resettlement programme a "harmful and hasty" decision.

IRC President David Miliband said: "America must remain true to its core values. America must remain a beacon of hope."

Mr Miliband praised the United States' record as a resettlement destination and said: "This is no time for America to turn its back on people ready to become patriotic Americans."

The head of a leading refugee aid agency said the ban hurts innocents fleeing violence.

Jan Egeland, of the Norwegian Refugee Council, said the decision "will not make America safer, it will make America smaller and meaner".

He said the decision dealt a "mortal blow" to the idea of international responsibility for those fleeing persecution.

The US is leading a "race to the bottom" in which politicians in wealth countries provide "zero moral leadership", he said.

Malala Yousafzai, shot in the head by the Pakistani Taliban in 2012 to stop her campaigning for girls' education and co-winner of the 2014 Nobel peace prize, said she is heart-broken by the ban.

Ms Yousafzai implored Mr Trump "not to turn his back on the world's most defenceless children and families".

Refugees and immigrants, she said, have "helped build your country".

AP

Iran's foreign ministry announced it will limit issuing visas to American tourists in retaliation against the immigration crackdown.

The official IRNA news agency carried a statement by the Iranian foreign ministry saying Iran will resort to "counteraction" to Mr Trump's executive order.

The statement said: "Iran, to defend the dignity of the great Iranian nation, will implement the principle of reciprocity until the removal of the insulting restriction against Iranian nationals."

The statement adds: "It will apply corresponding legal, consular and political actions."

The two countries have had no diplomatic relations since 1979 when militants stormed the US embassy.

AP

Two of the first people blocked from entering the United States were Iraqis with links to the US military.

Hameed Khalid Darweesh and Haider Sameer Abdulkhaleq Alshawi were detained by immigration officials after landing at New York's Kennedy airport on Friday night.

Darweesh had worked as an interpreter for the US Army when it invaded Iraq in 2003. Later he worked as a contract engineer.

He was allowed into the US on Saturday afternoon, hours after his lawyer petitioned a federal court to let the two men go.

In their court filing, his lawyers said Alshawai's wife had worked for a US security contractor in Iraq. Members of her family had been killed by insurgents because of their association with the US military.

AP

Later Mr Trump said the crackdown "is not a Muslim ban" and said the measure was "working out very nicely."
US President Donald Trump has ordered "new vetting measures" to keep "radical Islamic terrorists" out of the country.

On a day he alternated tough talk with kind words in his diplomatic stand-off with Mexico, Mr Trump travelled to the Pentagon for the signing of an executive action to bring sweeping changes to the nation's refugee policies and put in motion his plans to build up the nation's military.

"I'm establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America. We don't want 'em here," Mr Trump declared.

"We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas. We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people."

During his election campaign Mr Trump pledged to put in place "extreme vetting" procedures to screen people coming to the US from countries with terrorism ties.

The White House did not immediately release details on the order the president signed, but a draft of the order called for suspending the issuing of visas to people from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen for at least 30 days.

Earlier at the White House Mr Trump was asked about a more contentious issue: his recent statements that torture "does work" in prying information out of terror suspects.

Giving ground, he said US defence secretary James Mattis's opposition would override his own belief. Hours later he stood at the Pentagon as the retired general was sworn in as the military's chief.

But Mr Trump held firm on another controversy - trade and illegal immigration from Mexico. He told reporters that he had a "very good call" with Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto earlier in the day, but reaffirmed his belief that Mexico has "out-negotiated and beat us to a pulp" on trade - and that would change.

"We're no longer going to be the country that doesn't know what it's doing," he declared a day after the Mexican leader cancelled his visit to Washington in response to Mr Trump's plans to build a border wall and have Mexico pay for it.

The flurry of national security and foreign police moves capped a hectic first week for Mr Trump at the White House, giving Americans an initial look at how the new president intends to position the United States around the globe.

AP
Who says we don't have enough cool jobs in the world? Saalfelden, a town in Austria is looking for someone to take care of their 350-year-old hermitage through the months of April to November.

www.sagen.at

This centuries-old hermitage opens into a natural cave and is situated above the Lichtenberg castle.

Pure Landscapes

Although there's no heat or running water here, you will have all the peace, quiet and time in the world to indulge your spiritual side. It would be ideal if the occupants of this 'retreat' also have a "Christian outlook," and a friendly approach to neighbours or anyone else who may come calling.

Ready to be a hermit? Here's where you can apply.
Selfies are our generation's ugliest truth, it seems, particularly after so many reported deaths due to them. What's amusing is how the chance to let better sense prevail loses out to something as redundant as a selfie. Ironically, what's supposed to highlight our best features, has brought out the absolute worst.

What's worse is the fact that this isn't the first time this has happened either. It was only a year back, in February 2016, that tourists on a beach in Argentina dragged a hapless young dolphin out of the sea, placed it on the sand and took selfies. There was not an inch of doubt that the dolphin had been manhandled, and pictures that floated around social media were proof of that.

FACEBOOK/HERNAN CORIA

All this while, the dolphin was drawing in shorter breaths until, finally, it didn't. This Franciscana dolphin, from an already "vulnerable" species, became a statistic within a matter of minutes.

(Read: Baby Dolphin Killed As Tourists Yank It Out Of The Ocean To Take A Selfie)

Now, again, reports suggesting another dolphin death have surfaced. According to La Capital, a local newspaper in Argentina, tourists yanked a dolphin from the ocean in San Bernardo, brought it ashore and started petting it. A blurred video shows a dolphin surrounded on all sides with barely enough room to breathe while countless hands hover over its body.

Otra vez mataron a un delfin en San Bernardo. Sacaron al animal del mar para sacarse fotos. pic.twitter.com/4qzYnWvKiH  C5N (@C5N) January 23, 2017

"They let him die," an onlooker told La Capital.

Yet another witness told C5N, a news channel, "It was small and it came close to the shore. They could have put it back in the seain fact, it was breathingbut they all started taking photos and touching it."

"They said it was already dead," she added.

We get social media is changing the digital landscape, but is this the kind of change that should even dare to rear its head. How dare we humans think ourselves supreme enough to endanger the life of another living being? In case you're still wondering, 'how much is too much,' this... this, right here, is enough.

How about you don't take that selfie ?

Better yet,
Sanjay Leela Bhansali was slapped and assaulted by Rajput Karni Sena workers. The protestors staged a protest at Jaigarh fort in Jaipur and stalled the film shoot. And now, recent reports claim that the team of Padmavati, including Bhansali, has wrapped up their disrupted shoot and is now planning to carry on with the shoot in Mumbai.

Twitter

A source has claimed that Bhansali has now vowed to never shoot in Jaipur again. A news report has quoted a source saying, He has packed up and has said he will never shoot again in Jaipur."

Film Fraternity has come together and is condemning the attack on Sanjay Leela Bhansali. This time, film fraternity is in no mood to let go the offenders and is now urging for a strict call to action, which is fair. However, Anurag Kashyap's tweets of concern haven't gone down too well with a lot of people.

The remark offended many and they called out Kashyap for his reckless tweet. In his tweets, Anurag wrote,

Can once the whole film industry come together and take a stand, and refuse to be a pony that all bullshit and bullshitters ride on??  Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap72) January 27, 2017

At the same time Shame on you Karni Sena, you make me feel ashamed to be a Rajput.. bloody spineless cowards ..  Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap72) January 27, 2017

Hindu extremists have stepped out of twitter into the real world now.. and Hindu terrorism is not a myth anymore  Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap72) January 27, 2017

Here is how Twitter reacted,

It's good sir that Bollywood fakes distort history -- you are rousing Indjans to understand what their history was. https://t.co/iLUANGqB82  Tufail Ahmad (@tufailelif) January 28, 2017

I am confused. We all get excited with BOSE but when it comes to @anuragkashyap72 & #SanjayLeelaBhansali kind off v become GANDHI

WHY? https://t.co/kerFoXjMUi  #GauravPradhan  (@DrGPradhan) January 28, 2017

Attack on freedom of artistic expression is wrong,but because of some fringe elements u cannot label entire Hindu community as terrorists. https://t.co/FgUuiw8bpb  Madhur Bhandarkar (@imbhandarkar) January 28, 2017

Bollywood stupidity has never been a myth - it has always been a reality https://t.co/WCakkUVf5L  The Bad Doctor (@DOCTORATLARGE) January 28, 2017

Still consuming 58% of India's total daily heroin consumption  https://t.co/Dp1kPxvlxb  Adinder (@reviewero) January 28, 2017

"Terrorism has no Religion" to "Hindu Terrorism" . Thanks to Sickulars and pseudo Liberals for exposing ur self https://t.co/rJewb0aCBW  Tajinder Pal S Bagga (@TajinderBagga) January 28, 2017

This guy should have been leading NIA. He seems to know more than investigating agencies .. https://t.co/rpKboAo4J2  Rajeev Dash (@rajeevdash) January 28, 2017

As a well wishers I'd advise don't say things in excitement to show your solidarity for which you may have to regret later. https://t.co/fENv2mbnYb  Vivek Agnihotri (@vivekagnihotri) January 28, 2017

Was that a Drunk Man tweeting? https://t.co/imOnCxFnPP  Aditya Raj Kaul (@AdityaRajKaul) January 28, 2017

Anurag Kashyap finally accepts Terror does have a religion. He was lying all these years about 'Islamic terror' https://t.co/P2VIUv4r1P  Manak Gupta (@manakgupta) January 28, 2017
The unfortunate series of events that left the sets of Padmavati devastated yesterday, again gave us a reality check on how intolerant India is becoming.

Without watching the film or reading the script of the film, Rajput protestors attacked one of the most senior filmmakers of the film fraternity. The vandalism and how Sanjay Leela Bhansali was manhandled speak about the sad state of affairs in our country where people just want a reason to outrage.

Twitter

Film fraternity took to social media to express their concern on Bhansali. And now, the latest stars to join the bandwagon is the cast of Padmavati that include the three main leads, Shahid Kapoor, Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh.

BCCL

Emphasising that there has been no distortion of facts in the film, three of them condemned the attack and gave a strong reassurance on the film, script and how Bhansali didn't deserve the ill-treatment. Read on.

Insisting that Padmavati is being made keeping in mind the sensitivities and emotions of the people of Rajasthan and the Rajput community, Ranveer Singh wrote,



Making a point on how Bhansali hasn't distorted any historical facts in the film, Deepika wrote,

In a state of shock!deeply saddened and disheartened by yesterday's events!#Padmavati  Deepika Padukone (@deepikapadukone) January 28, 2017

As Padmavati I can assure you that there is absolutely no distortion of history.#Padmavati  Deepika Padukone (@deepikapadukone) January 28, 2017

Our only endeavour is & has always been to share with the world the story of this courageous & powerful woman in the purest form there is.  Deepika Padukone (@deepikapadukone) January 28, 2017



And Shahid was really disappointed that he wasn't there with Bhansali when he had to go through such a bad treatment. He wrote,

Very very sad. Words do fall short and feel too little to express feelings. Violence is unacceptable. This incident has shocked me.  Shahid Kapoor (@shahidkapoor) January 28, 2017

We need to look deep within as a society, as a country, as a people. Where are we headed.  Shahid Kapoor (@shahidkapoor) January 28, 2017

Sanjay bhansali is a film maker who the country should be proud of. You will know when u see #padmavati the dignity he brings to it.  Shahid Kapoor (@shahidkapoor) January 28, 2017
M Durga Devi, a Tamil Nadu police constable has alleged that she was molested by the protesters during the recent protests demanding the reinstatement of jallikattu.

Based on the team's report, police commissioner S George ordered a detailed inquiry. Davi said she had been standing with five of her colleagues near the barricade in front of the station when nearly 200 men marched towards me. "They hurled stones which left me with injuries to my shoulders. They also grabbed and pushed me around," she said. Read more

1. Another Avalanche Hits Army Post In Kupwara, 5 Soldiers Go Missing, Death Toll Crosses 20

Yet another Avalanche has hit an Army post in Kupwara district on Saturday. According to an initial report, at least five army personnel have been missing in the latest fury of snow. A search operation has been launched for the missing.

Several avalanches and landslides have been reported from many parts of the state including the highway at Shatani Nallah area in Banihal belt of Ramban district. Read more

2. Vijay Mallya Continues His Brazen Defence, Says He Begged For Help, Not Loans

Under fire for his lavish lifestyle even when his airline was collapsing, troubled liquor tycoon Vijay Mallya has put the blame for the collapse of Kingfisher Airlines (KFA) on the then government's policies and economic conditions.

Defending himself in a string of tweets, Mallya said all he sought was help related to policy change and not loans, questioning "public funds given to Air India". Read more

You don't get to hear this from a politician, ever. An independent candidate contesting election from Agra South constituency has said that he has entered politics only to earn money and make people fool.

I have no motive to enter politics besides earning money so that I can invest and avail all the facilities of an elected MLA, Gopal Chaudhary was quoting saying by news agency ANI. Read more

4. Donald Trump Bans Entry Of Muslim Refugees From Seven Countries, Says Syrian Christians Are Welcome

US President Donald Trump signed a new executive order to suspend refugee arrivals and impose tough new controls on travelers from seven Muslim countries. Making good on one of his most controversial campaign promises, Trump said he was making America safe from "radical Islamic terrorists."

Trump's decree suspends the entire US refugee resettlement program for at least 120 days while tough new vetting rules are established. These new protocols will, "Ensure that those approved for refugee admission do not pose a threat to the security and welfare of the United States." Read more

5. As Calamity-Hit Farmers Continue To Commit Suicide, SC Asks Govt Why There's No Policy To Help Them

Having dealt with the issue of farmers' suicide raised in many PILs earlier, the Supreme Court on Friday found it strange that there was no national policy to compensate tillers for crop failure or indebtedness, two major reasons for them to take their lives.

A bench of Chief Justice J S Khehar and Justice N V Ramana was dealing with a three-year-old appeal filed by an NGO led by Mallika Sarabhai questioning the rationale behind Gujarat high court's decision not to entertain its PIL seeking relief for farmers, nearly 600 of whom had committed suicide between 2004-2012. Read more
After everything was safely conducted during the Republic Day Parade, A mortar shell was found lying in Kishan Garh village near Delhi's Vasant Kunj area, police said.

Reuters

Acting on a tip off, a police party from Vasant Kunj police station found a suspicious object in a dustbin (in Kishan Garh village) this morning. The services of National Security Guard (NSG) was sought to defuse the explosives and efforts are on to neutralise the shells.

"As an interim measure, the mortar shell has been secured by a bomb blanket," an officer said. The NSG team has safely taken away the mortar shell that weighed 2.5 kilograms with them. The situation is reported to be under control.
M Durga Devi, a Tamil Nadu police constable has alleged that she was molested by the protesters during the recent protests demanding the reinstatement of jallikattu.

BCCL

Based on the team's report, police commissioner S George ordered a detailed inquiry. Davi said she had been standing with five of her colleagues near the barricade in front of the station when nearly 200 men marched towards me. "They hurled stones which left me with injuries to my shoulders. They also grabbed and pushed me around," she said.

Thinking about what may have happened, she said, "Had they cornered me inside the police station, things could have turned ugly. The horror refuses to leave me. They kept targeting me."

BCCL

On Monday, as the protesters advanced towards the station, Durga Devi and her colleagues stood behind the barricade, trying to stop them. But they were soon overwhelmed and the protesters were all over them. Many in the mob touched her inappropriately and kept hurling stones, she said, adding that the incident had kept haunting her. She could have handled them had they just hurled stones.

Soon, the situation went out of control. Durga Devi was among those who ran into the station. Others ran to an adjacent street. The mob damaged the building, poured petrol over it and set it afire.

BCCL

In a darkened room, Durga Devi managed to get hold of a wireless and alert the control room. A team arrived after some time, chased away the protesters and pulled her out of the burning station after breaking a window.

Senior police officers who confirmed the incident said they had waited for her formal complaint.
Computer scientist Vijay P Bhatkar, who led the development of India's first supercomputer, Param, after the US refused to sell supercomputers to India, will be the new chancellor of Nalanda University (NU). Bhatkar is the national president of Vigyan Bharati, a science body of the RSS.

Bhatkar was appointed by President Pranab Mukherjee in his capacity as the NU visitor on Friday, six weeks after former Singapore minister George Yeo quit as NU chancellor.

In his strong-worded resignation letter to Mukherjee, Yeo protested against the "unceremonious" ouster of interim VC Gopa Sabharwal, interpreting it as an attack on the autonomy of the varsity.

AP

In 2015, NU's founding chancellor Amartya Sen had refrained from seeking a second term, saying that the Modi government did not want him to continue.

Bhatkar served as a member of the scientific advisory committee to the PM, and the governing council of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research. He was also a member of the IT Task Force constituted by the then PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 1998.

Bhatkar was awarded the Padma Shri in 2000. He also received Maharashtra Bhushan Award, the highest recognition of the government of Maharashtra, in 2000.

Reuters

The revival of the ancient Nalanda Mahavihara was mooted by former President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam in 2006. The university, backed by 17 countries, was inaugurated by Swaraj in 2014.
What started off as a routine check by the border police in China near the Vietnam border, led to the discovery of 158 dead "critically endangered" crocodiles.

Of these, the bodies of at least 70 crocodiles were found frozen while the remaining 88 were reduced to just their tails.

Screen grab

The lifeless bodies of these Siamese crocodiles had been stuffed into 16 foam boxes for delivery to an as of yet unnamed destination where they would most likely have been turned into shoes, wallets and bags.

Screen grab

"It's sickening to the soul," Gary Stokes, the Southeast Asia director, Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, told The Dodo. "Sadly, shipments such as these are a too-familiar sight."

Watch the video below.
Facebook founder, Mark Zuckerberg has expressed his concerns over US President, Donald Trump's decision to ban Muslim refugees from several countries in the Middle East and North Africa, saying that the US is a great nation that has welcomed refugees from all over the world throughout its history. Here's what he wrote in one of the most powerful posts on the issue:

Maybe it is just coincidence or a cruel irony that US President Donald Trump signed the executive order suspending the entry of refugees from seven countries to America on January 27, the International Holocaust Remembrance Day.

Reuters

The day commemorates the Nazi genocide of Jews in Germany under Hitler.

It is particularly significant to US as the country still holds the 'guilt' of turning down a boat carrying Jewish asylum seekers fleeing the holocaust in Germany.

According to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, the boat named St. Louis sailed from Hamburg, Germany, on May 13, 1939, to Havana.

St Louis Manifest/ Twitter

Upon arrival, most Jewish refugees were refused permission to disembark by Cuban authorities. Shortly after, the Cuban president at the time, Federico Laredo Bru, ordered the ship out of the port of Havana and Cuban waters.

The ocean liner then floated off Miami, so close that passengers could see the city's lights. Some of those passengers pleaded in telegrams to the White House and State Department for asylum. The United States did not allow them to disembark, and the ship was forced to return to Europe.

According to the US Holocaust Memorial Museum 254 passengers from the St. Louis died in the Holocaust.

Many pointed out the irony of the executive order on the same day.

On #HolocaustMemorialDay Trump is banning refugees fleeing genocide based on their status as a religious minority. #WeveSeenThisMovieBefore https://t.co/2SvarBfG0S  Jonathan Riley (@JonRiley7) January 28, 2017

trump signed an order against women rights on the day of the march,&signed one on #MuslimBan on #HolocaustMemorialDay notice a pattern here?  kiara (@biebrvogue) January 28, 2017

Ordering the #MuslimBan on #HolocaustMemorialDay is a willful assault on decency. It's no coincidence. You are a disgrace @realDonaldTrump  Beau Willimon (@BeauWillimon) January 28, 2017
Amid US President Donald Trump talking tough on building the wall on Mexican border and prohibiting entry of refugees and immigrants in the US, mayor of Germanys once-divided capital Berlin, Michael Mueller, has urged the US President not to build the wall.

AFP

Dont build this wall!, Mueller urged Trump. Berlins mayor said his city which remained split till 1989, cannot look on without comment when a country plans to build a new wall.

We Berliners know best how much suffering was caused by the division of an entire continent with barbed wire and concrete, he was quoted in The Guardian, referring to Europes Iron Curtain division.

AFP

But US President Trump has already started working delivering on his promises. This week ordered US officials to begin to design and construct a wall along the 2,000-mile (3,200-kilometre) US-Mexico border.

Berlins mayor also said that Germany cant allow American falling to the same fate, they had been a victim of. We cant just accept it if our historical experience is disregarded by those to whom we largely owe our freedom, the Americans.

Reuters

Mueller also recalled former US president Ronald Reagans famous 1987 challenge to erstwhile Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev to tear down this wall!, and said in his message to Trump: Dear Mr President, dont build this wall!

UN agencies urge Trump to allow refugee enter US

The United Nations refugee agency and International Organization for Migration (IOM) urged Trump administration to continue offering asylum to people fleeing war and persecution, saying its resettlement programme was vital.

AFP

US President Donald Trump on Friday put a four-month hold on allowing refugees into the United States and temporarily barred travellers from Syria and six other Muslim-majority countries, saying the moves would help protect Americans from terrorist attacks.

The needs of refugees and migrants worldwide have never been greater and the US resettlement program is one of the most important in the world, the two Geneva-based agencies said in a joint statement.

Trump has put a hold on the entry of people from six countries- Iraq, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen for at least three months, citing that his administration needed time to develop more stringent screen process for refugees and other immigrants.

Reuters

We strongly believe that refugees should receive equal treatment for protection and assistance, and opportunities for resettlement, regardless of their religion, nationality or race," said IOM and UNHCR.
A cystic fibrosis patient, she had been struggling with an infection in the lungs for years.

In a one-of-a-kind, experimental procedure, doctors at a Toronto hospital saved the life of the then 32-year-old Melissa Benoit, by removing her lungs for six days while readying her for a transplant.

Melissa had severe lung infection owing to her history with cystic fibrosis, and after being admitted to the hospital in April last year, doctors realised she didn't have much time.

Hence, the adoption of this experimental new treatment.

Mirror

At a news conference early this week, University Health Network's Dr Niall Ferguson, responsible for the Toronto general hospital, said, "It was a difficult discussion because when we're talking about something that had never to our knowledge been done before, there were a lot of unknowns." (Source)

Things had got so bad for Melissa, mother to a two-year-old daughter, that she could barely speak, and worse yet, breathe. A bacterial infection and sepsis, not responding to strong antibiotics, was shutting her organs down, her doctors said.

Shaf Keshavjee one of three surgeons attending to Benoit's case said, "We had reached the end of the road. There was nothing we could do to keep her alive."

After she had spent much time on a ventilator, the doctors explained the procedure to the family. Chris Benoit, her husband had a call to make.

CBC

Chris Benoit said in that news release that "things were so bad for so long, we needed something to go right, and this new procedure was the first piece of good news in a long time. We needed this chance."

After a gruelling nine hours spent in surgery, Benoit was relieved of her lungs and hooked to what the hospital called "the most sophisticated life support possible for her heart and lungs."

In November, a paper published in the Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, gives a detailed account of the surgery. Then on Wednesday, early this week, it was explained to a room full of media crew.

What Melissa got instead was an artificial lung called Novalung.

Mirror

"Once we took the lungs out and she got connected, literally within 20 minutes, we were able to remove all the blood-pressure-supporting drugs," he recalled. "That told us that the concept is right. She's not going to die tonight, but we're not home free. Now can we keep this state until we get lungs?"

The only thing they had to wait for now was a pair of new lungs. And they soon came. A successful transplant later, Benoit told The Post, They brought me back from death."
Shantytown renovation was a major development project to improve peoples lives, Premier Li Keqiang said in an instruction on Jan 16.

To ensure people are relocated to a better home, the Premier said the construction quality of the new houses should be checked, infrastructure facilities must be provided and the monetized resettlement could be increased.

In Ganzhou city, Jiangxi province, August 2016

Premier Li visited an elderly mans house in the shantytowns of Ganzhou city, East Chinas Jiangxi province, on Aug 22, 2016.

Learning that his whole family had been living in the wooden shack for nearly 100 years, the Premier told a local official to make all-out efforts to help villagers in this area to relocate, even though it would be difficult and funds were limited.

In Taiyuan, Shanxi province, January 2016

After inspecting a shantytown area in Taiyuan of North Chinas Shanxi province on Jan 4, 2016, Premier Li said that the government still shoulders heavy responsibilities. The Premier visited the dilapidated one-story house of an older woman in the Xiaobeiguan area and learned that there are more than 80 such areas in Taiyuan.

I myself grew up in a shantytown area, so I know your hardship well, the Premier told the residents. He pledged to the residents that he would let them move into new homes as soon as possible.

State Council executive meeting on Jan 22, 2016

The meeting on Jan 22 decided to speed up the renovation of shantytowns and dilapidated buildings, and expand the renovation work to major towns in China.

The Premier said China still has 100 million people living in shantytown areas, and related departments should identify them with advanced new technologies and find more potential for implementation of the new-type urbanization.

National video conference on shantytown renovation, Oct 10, 2015

Premier Li Keqiang urged governments at all levels to attach great importance to renovation of shantytowns as a measure to improve peoples lives.

Efforts must be stepped up to give more financial and taxation support for the rebuilding project and encourage private investment in the project, and quality must be ensured and goals must be achieved as scheduled to improve urbanization and promote economic development, Premier Li said in an instruction on Oct 10, 2015.

April 24, 2015, Fuzhou, Fujian

Premier Li was delighted to see a family he visited seven years ago moved into a new house. He then urged that more efforts should be made in renovating shantytowns.

April 17, 2015, China Development Bank

During a visit to the finance division of China Development Bank, Premier Li said more financial support should be extended to the 200,000 households in Heilongjiang and Jilin provinces who live in areas affected by soil subsidence.

He encouraged them to visit these places to understand the situation of those who live in shantytowns.

The finance division, set up a year ago, provides support for the rebuilding of shantytowns.

March 9, 2015, National Peoples Congress (NPC)

Renovation work in shantytowns located in areas hit by mining subsidence must be done within this term of government, Premier Li said during a meeting on March 9 with the National Peoples Congress (NPC) deputies from Heilongjiang province to review the government work report.

The heads of the National Development and Reform Commission, the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development are here with us today, Premier Li said at the meeting. And I have an urgent task for you: The problem of shantytown renovation in mining subsidence areas must be solved within the term of this government.

Shantytowns in other mining subsidence areas will also be transformed within the span of this term of government, Premier Li promised, before asking provincial and municipal leaders to ensure the commitment is met.

Feb 14, 2015, Guiyang, Guizhou

Premier Li posted the Chinese character fu- which means good fortune - on the gate of a newly built residential community in Guiyang, capital of Southwest Chinas Guizhou province, on Feb 14, 2015.

The community was built to accommodate residents relocated from shantytowns, and Premier Li asked the management to make sure that the community provides a comfortable and convenient living environment for residents.

Shantytown renovation is not just building new houses but also creating a livable environment, Premier Li said in the rebuilt shantytown.

March 27, 2014, Chifeng, Inner Mongolia autonomous region

Premier Li visited the home of a shantytown resident in Chifeng, Inner Mongolia autonomous region, March 27, 2014. He said the government will further renovate shantytowns and move residents to high-rise buildings as soon as possible.

You have our promise to move into new houses, and I will visit your new homes next time I come here, Premier Li said to the shantytown residents of the city.

Dec 27, 2013, Hongqiao district, Tianjin

Premier Li visited the home of Li Zhongyi in Xiyuzhuang, Tianjin, Dec 27, 2013. As there was little room in her home, he sat on her bed, where he asked about local peoples living conditions, later visiting other inhabitants.

He told the 77-year-old that the government will ensure that she will move into a house with a kitchen, a bathroom and heating system.

Please send me some photos that show peoples lives in their new houses, said the Premier. He also asked the local government to make sure that shantytown residents can move into their new houses next year.

March 17, 2013, Great Hall of the People, Beijing

The government decided to renovate all kinds of shantytowns in China, where more than 10 million families dwell, said the Premier at the press conference of the two sessions in 2013, adding that the efforts will not only break the dual structure of urban economy and rural economy within the city but also lower the threshold for urbanization.
Top Trump Advisor Tells Media to Keep Its Mouth Shut By PTI January 27, 2017 " Information Clearing House " - " PTI " - A top Donald Trump advisor has asked the mainstream media in the US to keep its mouth shut as the news organisations have been humiliated by the general elections results and he repeatedly described them as the opposition party of the current administration.



The media should be embarrassed and humiliated and keep its mouth shut and just listen for a while, Stephen K Bannon, Chief White House Strategist for President Donald Trump told The New York Times in a conference call. I want you to quote this. The media here is the opposition party. They dont understand this country. They still do not understand why Donald Trump is the president of the US, Bannon said.



Bannon, who played a key role in the victory of Trump last November said that the elite media got it all wrong covering the campaign.



The elite media got it dead wrong, 100 per cent dead wrong, Bannon said calling it a humiliating defeat that they will never wash away, that will always be there.



The mainstream media has not fired or terminated anyone associated with following our campaign, Bannon said.



Look at the Twitter feeds of those people: they were outright activists of the Clinton campaign. You were humiliated, he alleged.



The media has zero integrity, zero intelligence, and no hard work. Youre the opposition party. Not the Democratic Party. Youre the opposition party. The media is the opposition party, he said.



The paper of record for our beloved republic, The New York Times, should be absolutely ashamed and humiliated. They got it 100 per cent wrong, Bannon said. The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Information Clearing House.
Syria, Interrupted Game Change By Jim Kavanagh January 27, 2017 " Information Clearing House " - " The Polemicist" - The recapture of Aleppo by the Syrian Arab Army and its allies marks a turning point not only in the conflict in Syria, but also in the dynamic of international conflict. For the first time since the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the rolling imperial engine of regime change via American-led military intervention has been stopped in its tracks. To be sure, its certainly not out of service, even in Syria, and it will seek and find new paths for devastating disobedient countries, but its assumed endgame for subjugating Syria has been rudely interrupted. And in our historical context, Syria interrupted is imperialism interrupted. Lets remember where things stood in Syria seventeen months ago. After a four-year campaign, directed by the United States, thousands of jihadis in various groups backed by the US/NATO, the Gulf monarchies, Turkey and Israel, were on the offensive. ISIS occupied Palmyra, Raqqa, and swaths of territory, and was systematically raping, beheading, and torturing Syrian citizens and looting and destroying the countrys cultural treasures. Al-Qeada/al-Nusra had triumphantly poured into the eastern part of Aleppo, Syrias largest city (and one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world), were beheading and crucifying their newly-subjugated Syrian captives, and were beginning their siege of the larger and more populous part of that city. Turkey had commenced military operations on Syrian territory against Kurdish forces (who had won significant victories against ISIS), and was enabling the transit of foreign jihadis into Syria and convoys of ISIS oil through its territory. Against these dispersed offensives, the Syrian Arab Army was undermanned and overstretched. As John Kerry himself later admitted, in a meeting with Syrian opposition, the Obama administration saw the ISIS advance as a positive development: [W]e know that this was growing, we were watching, we saw that DAESH [ ISIS] was growing in strength, and we thought Assad was threatened. [We] thought, however, we could probably manage that. Assad might then negotiate.(By negotiate, Kerry meant capitulatenegotiate the terms of his abdication.) For the Serious People in Washington, thisthe impending takeover of Syria by ISIS and Al-Qaeda jihadismeant things were going swimmingly. (Al-Nusra was at the timeand still is, less officiallythe affiliate of Al-Qaeda in Syria.) As Daniel Lazare pointed out: After years of hemming and hawing, the Obama administration has finally come clean about its goals in Syria. In the battle to overthrow Bashar al-Assad, it is siding with Al Qaeda[R]ather than protesting what is in fact a joint U.S.-Al Qaeda assault, the Beltway crowd is either maintaining a discreet silence or boldy hailing Al Nusras impending victory as the best thing that could happen in a Middle East in crisis. You read that right. As one al-Nusra commander said: We are one part of al-QaedaThe Americans are on our side. ISIS? We can manage that. But Assad was still hanging on, maintaining control of Damascus, the Syrian armed forces, and the vast majority of the Syrian population. It was time for the big dog to jump in and make sure the intended, inevitable result was achieved. Thus, on August 2, 2015, U.S. officials told Reuters that the United States has decided to allow air strikes to help defend against any attack on the U.S.-trained Syrian rebels, even if the attackers come from forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Not many people, and certainly not the mainstream media, took much notice of that announcement at the time. No thang, after all, for the U.S. to announce attacks against a sovereign country. To this day, its hardly ever mentioned in narratives of the conflict. But with that announcementa pledge to use American planes to shoot down Syrian planes in Syrian airspace and fire on Syrian troops who might dare to attack US-approved rebels on Syrian territory (something way beyond a no-fly zone)the United States, under President Obama, effectively declared war on Syria. Syria was now under explicit attack by the armed forces of two statesthe U.S. and its NATO ally Turkeyalong with a panoply of jihadi proxy armies supported by at least four other states  Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, and Israel. The newly-promised direct American military attacks on Syrian forces would be the coup de grace for the last secular nationalist government in the Arab world. I did notice that announcement at the time, and wrote about it in the last of a series of articles about Syria, where I said: Those who wanted a war with Syria in 2013 have finally gotten what they wanted. It will be a dangerous diversion, at least, for the United States, and a certain disaster for the people of the Middle East. And nobody will stop it. Because, I assumed (along with virtually everyone else, I dare say) the inevitability of what we had seen since the demise of the Soviet Union: that nobody could or would make a military challenge to an American military intervention. The worlds only superpower, and all. Two Can Play I, along with virtually everyone else, was wrong. There was another actor in the world who noticed the announcement, took it as the declaration of warthe intent to finish off the government of Syriathat it was, and decided not to let it go unchallenged. Thus, in September, 2016, Russia accepted the Syrian governments official request for military help to resist the multinational jihadi-cum-Western-air-power-and-special-forces onslaught. Without saying it this way explicitly, Vladimir Putin was sending Russian armed forces to prevent the final offensive against the Syrian state that the United States had announced it was readying. It is a flagrant and ubiquitous omission to talk about the Russian military intervention in Syria without mentioning the American threat that preceded it. As Kerry completed his thoughts cited above, Assad didnt wait for ISIS to threaten Damascus, or for the U.S. to start bombing his army; insteadhe got Putin to support him. I was surprisedamazed, reallythat Russia would take such bold action. Since the disappearance of the Soviet Union, the U.S. has been geopolitically contemptuous of Russia, with successive American administrations simply ignoring Russia in their calculations about how to go about ruling the world. Poppy Bush had promised Mikhail Gorbachev that the US would not expand NATO to take in the Eastern European and Baltic states, and he, Bill Clinton, and George W. proceeded to do just that. They took it for granted that Russiaunder the leadership of their drunken stooge, Yeltsin, and devastated by the American-induced shock-therapy restoration of capitalismcould do nothing. With his war on Russias close ally, Serbia, Bill Clinton (demonstrating that NATO never was a defensive alliance) announced that, henceforth, NATOs judgement trumped all other precepts of international law, and the alliance was free to attack any country on Earth; he, too, presumed Russia could do nothing about it. In Libya, the Obama administration got the Russians (and Chinese) to vote for a humanitarian UN resolution, which Obama then both used as an excuse and blatantly flouted to bomb the crap out of Libya for the purpose of regime changeassuming, again, that Russia could do nothing about it. G. W. Bush abrogated the ABM Treaty, and he and Obama moved to station missile defenses in Eastern Europe that Russia knows very well are weapons designed to enable a U.S. first-strike capability; they assumed, of course, that Russia could do nothing about it. The first hint of a change in Russias stance came in 2013, when Putin adroitly annulled the chemical weapons pretext for the attack on Syria that Obama was itching to launch at the time. Although the decisive impediment to that planned aggression was adamant popular resistance, punctuated by the British parliament just saying No! (another portentous denial of assumed compliance), Putin earned the lasting enmity of Americas deep-state neocons. Still, this Syrian gambit was diplomatic jiu-jitsu by Russia, turning Kerrys proclamations about Syria surrendering chemical weapons against him; there was no hint that Russia would or could have offered any military resistance to the attack the United States would have launched. That kind of resistance first peeked out in the context of the Ukraine upheaval in 2014, where Russia made clear it would use its military to backstop Crimeas break from, and Donbasss resistance to, the American-instigated, Nazi-infested coup regime in Kiev. (And I use that N-word advisedly. See my take on that here and here.) Still, this resistance was on Russias home turf, as it were, and Russian armed forces remained in the background. There was no overt Russian military action outside of its borderlands, and no hint that Russia would or could project its own military power, let alone challenge American military action, in a distant venue. It was, and still is, true that the U.S. military is capable of global power projection in a way that Russias (or anybody elses) is not. So it was possible for American planners to continue assuming that however the U.S. military intervened in a far-flung country, there was nothing Russia could do about it. Nobody really got the point that Russia was starting to say: There is some borscht we will not eat. The rotten soup that Russia rejected in Syria is the toxic recipe of regime change via jihadi proxy forces mixed with the assumption of moral superiority, which allows the U.S. and its allies to rearrange countries without regard to the traditional niceties of national sovereignty or international law. In that context, the Russian military intervention not only, as Kerry said, changed the equation in Syria, it was a game-changing move in world politics. To the great consternation of the American imperial regime, for the first time since the Cold War, a country has proclaimed to the world: When it comes to the proactive use of military force in critical conjunctures, two can play. Whats Left Whether Russian intervention to rescue the actually-existing Syrian Baathist government was a good or bad thing has been a contentious issue within the left. The answer to that depends on whether one sees the conflict thats been raging in Syria since 2011 (at least) as: a) predominantly an indigenous democratic revolt against a monstrous tyrant, dominated and directed by Syrians in the nations interest, even if also manned by Syrian and some foreign jihadis and armed, financed, and abetted by the U.S., Turkey, the Gulf monarchies, and Israel; this is the dominant Western narrative, ubiquitously promoted in the media, or b) one of a series of imperialist jihadi proxy wars that, at best, hijacked whatever Syrian democratic elements existed at the outseta war that is dominated and directed by foreign jihadi and state actors, and that seeks to destroy the last bastion of secular Arab nationalism, in order to create a weak, divided, sectarian non-state that suits those foreign interests; this is a version of events found only in the foreign and alternative press. I stand firmly in the latter camp. Im not going to rehash the case, which I and many others made a number of times over the last five years. I will say that I dont see how any leftist could continue to cling to the dominant Western narrative now that we have the American Secretary of State admitting that: 1) the US poured an extraordinary amount of arms into Syria to help the opposition; 2) the US wanted to manage ISIS, and watched approvingly as ISIS grew stronger and become threatening to Damascus itself; 3) Russia entered the war in order to prevent an ISIS victory, and did so; and 4) the Russian intervention, which changed the equation, is legal, because Russia is invited in by the legitimate regime, and the US has no legal basis for intervention, because the US hasnt gotten the UN to swallow the Responsibility to Protect doctrine as a substitute for international law. But there are people still in the first camp, whose sincere commitment to democracy, social justice, and anti-imperialist I do not question. I just disagree with their political judgement. And I vigorously disagree with the rhetorical tactics many of them use to defend it. But that will be the topic of another post. My position, shared by many people who also hold a sincere commitment to democracy, social justice, and anti-imperialism, requires no denial that that the Syrian Baathist state is a brutish affair. Baathism in Syria, as in Iraq, was the CIAs preferred alternative to communism, and Hafez al-Assad, like Saddam, killed thousands, including leftist dissidents. Both regimes had cozy relationships with American machinations in the region when it was convenient. These are regimes that deserve to be dispatched to the dustbin of history. Nevertheless, there was good reason that I and tens of millions of people around the world objected to the invasion and conquest of Iraq in 2003, which, as we foresaw, led to the demise of the country into sectarian chaos. Neither then nor now would calling us Saddams apologists be sign of anything but the weakness of the speakers political case. Nor does this position require any love for Putin-era Russia, which is, thanks to American-sponsored shock-and-awe capitalist restoration, a country mired in its own quicksand of conservative nationalism and scheming oligarchy. As it claws its way up the geopolitical food chain, Russia will undoubtedly engage with bad actors, and engage in bad actions. Still, Russia is not (yet) capable, economically or militarily, of being an imperialist power like the United States, and is the target of aggressive maneuvers by the worlds most powerful military alliance (NATO). In fact, its very weakness, as a rising capitalist entity, makes it want to insist on the fair rules of the international order, which the stronger capitalist countries proclaim, but have for so long ignored with impunity. The Syria-Russia alliance is not revolutionary proletarian internationalism. It is an alliance, within the framework of the traditional Westphalian state paradigm, and within the post-WWI framework of international law, that has had a real net positive effect in the context of todays geopolitics. Without Russian military intervention, al-Nusra and allied jihadis would have been rampaging through the streets of Damascus. Saving Syria from that fate is a result I welcome as a leftist. Again, at the time of the Russian intervention (and still)especially with the threat of imminent American military attacks on Syrian forcesmilitary action was the only way to stop the jihadi regime-change train, and Russia was the only geopolitical actor capable of intervening with the necessary force. Russia was responding, decisively and legally, to an invitation to defend an independent sovereign state. Non-violent kinda-sorta-pacifist progressives may not like it, but this is a situation that is being determined by armed force. Revolutionary leftists may not like it (I sure dont), but there is no left political force on the scene capable of mounting any serious resistance to either the Syrian state or the foreign-driven jihadi invasion-cum-rebellionitself a foreign intervention. Its also true, of course, that foreign military intervention, however legitimate its goals, can fail miserably. Having been deliberately provoked into doing so, the Soviets certainly intervened on the right sideCan anyone now doubt it?in defending the secular Afghan government in 1979 against the proxy jihadi war of the daywhich was the seed war of subsequent imperialist-jihadi adventures. Because the foreignness of the Soviet soldiers and womens education was more jarring than the foreignness of the Afghan Arabs and beheading teachers, and/or because the United States, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, et. al., supported the rebellion with money. Intelligence, logistics, and sophisticated arms (including anti-aircraft weapons), the result was, and still is, a disasterfor everybody. So it was that Obamawho entangled the United States in seven wars and kept sending American soldiers back into wars he endedpredicted that the intervention would trap Russia in a quagmire. Except it hasnt. The relatively small Russian contingent has acted effectively and with remarkable restraint in the face of severe provocation. Things can always go haywire, but so far, whether anyone likes it or not, the Russian intervention has been successful. Russia has even turned Turkey into an ally, for the moment at least. The fatal flaw of the Russians are getting into another quagmire like Afghanistan argument isAfghanistan. And Iraq. And Libya, etc. The Russians and the rest of the world now know how foolish and counterproductive it would be to send tens of thousands of troops to save Syria. The Russians and the rest of the world also now know how destructive the American project of regime change via jihadi proxies is, having seen its results in Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, and Syria. Only deluded and arrogant American exceptionalistsconservative militarists and liberal humanitarian interventionists alikehavent learned that lesson. There is no revolutionary skin in this game, and leftists should be the last to rationalize away the principles of state sovereignty and non-intervention, as well as the prohibition against aggressive and preventive war. As Jean Bricmont has pointed out, these principles became the bedrock of international law, and their violation the greatest war crime, not because of abstract bourgeois theorizing, but because of the experience of the Second World War (where Germany claimed to intervene in defense of beleaguered minorities in Czechoslovakia and Poland), and of colonialisma system in which stronger states justified the plunder of weaker ones under the guise of a civilizing mission. As Bricmont remarks: The last thing the newly decolonized countries wanted was intervention from the old colonial powers. As Bricmont also points out, just about everything that the United States is doing everywhere in the world violates these principles, and therefore the fundamental structure of international law. Now, much of that is cheered on by liberals and some leftists as humanitarian intervention and the responsibility to protect. As used by American liberals, and by anti-Assadist leftists who present Assad as an arch-fiend for whose elimination the world is responsible, these concern-saturated phrases are nothing but new-fangled slogans for missionary imperialism. Within the rules-based world order as conceived by American politicians and ideologists today, as Bricmont observes: It is obvious that such interventions are only possible on the part of strong States against weak States, and that even all strong states are not equal among each other. Really: Can Russia, China, Iran and their friendly states call themselves the international community, declare that the undemocratic, misogynist, head-chopping regime of Saudi Arabia just has to go, put their favored armed factions of Saudi dissidents and international jihadi brigades on their payroll, set up bases for them in Yemen where they are supplied with advanced tactical weapons, and demand that the Saudi government withdraw itself from, and turn over to these rebels, whatever territory theyd like to occupy? Is that the way the rules-based international order works now? Or is this prerogative reserved for the US and its favored allies? It is amazing how blithely the entire American political and media elitewith liberals in the leadhave constructed this alternate-reality version of the rules of international law, and become legends of righteousness in their own minds. The American left should have no truck with this. Lion King A good historical analogy can clarify a present situation. In this case, its best to avoid the temptation of associating Syria today with a precedent loaded with progressive internationalism. I find nothing more ridiculous than attempts to make the jihadis in Syria reincarnation of the international brigades in Spain. And the Russians are not Cuba in Angola. We need a case that involves nothing more than widely-accepted and good-enough principles of national sovereignty, non-interference, and anti-colonialismin which there is no good guy for the left. The best Ive come up with is a situation that conventional liberal history recognizes as one of the more outrageous and ominous crimes of the twentieth-century. It was an attack by a country that was the seat of Western civilization on one of the worlds poorest and most despotic regimes, ruled by a dictator who styled himself King of Kings and Lion of the Tribe of Judah, and had his own self-aggrandizing religious cult: That despot, Haile Selassie, was nonetheless feted for his resistance to Italian fascist imperialism. Is Bashar al-Assad a worse tyrant than Haile Selassie? Does Syria deserve less protection from Washington-Riyadh-Tel Avivs twenty-first century imperialism than Ethiopia did from twentieth-century Romes? Whos afraid of Selassie apologist? Timeline Review The jihadi-imperialist threat to the Syrian state has been interrupted, but it is decidedly not over. Syria has already been devastated, and the U.S. and its allies have enough resources to keep the pot boiling for a long time. The most positive recent development has been Turkeys seeming turn, propelled by the predictable blowback, away from the jihadi game. Without Turkeys help, ISIS and other jihadi elements will lose important supply lines. But Erdogan is the epitome of a fickle friend, and can turn back on an American dime tomorrow. Any lessening of regime-change aggression against Syria, as Donald Trump seemed to favor in his campaign rhetoric, would be a serious blow to the jihadis, and would probably lead to Saudi and Qatari support for them drying up. But anyone who trusts anything that Trump says right now should wait a few minutes. Even if he backs off on Syria, Trumps cabinet choices make clear that he will likely ratchet up aggression against Iran and the Palestinians, or maybe go back and take Iraqs oil. Besides, imperialism is a mandatory bi-partisan project. Congress has already voted 375-34 in the House, 92-7 margin to continue the Pentagon training for Syrian insurgents, and, for the first time, to supply them with anti-aircraft missiles. Lets see if Trump and Mad Dog Mattis put a stop to that. My bet: Despite what some wishful-thinking paleo-conservatives think, Donald Trump is not going to oversee a less imperialistic American policy in the world. What has happened, and is probably irreversible, and will be exacerbated by the presence of Trump, is that the incoherence, failure, and utter ridiculousness (from the perspective of reasonable standards of global peace and security) of American policy is now on embarrassing display. Its important to recognize that the strength of Russia in Syria is more political than military. The U.S. itself has many more military assets in the region than Russia, and there are 16 other countries flying combat aircraft in Syria. The American-led anti-Syria alliance draws on forces and facilities in the neighboring countries of Jordan, Israel, and Turkey. Indeed, the latter two have the significant armed forces that have directly attacked Syria, and shot down a Russian plane. Not to mention the global logistics and arms-supply network (even Croatias in the act) backed by the enormous financial resources of Saudi Arabia and Qatar. It was not just American, but also UK, Danish, and Australian air forces, that accidentally-on-purpose bombed Syrian army positions at the Deir Ezzor airport on September 17th, killing about 100 Syrian soldiers and wounding 110 more, in an operation that was an acknowledged violation of regulations, and just happened to support an ISIS offensive on the airport. There are more planes and weapons arrayed in the America-led coalition than in the Russian contingent. That attack on Deir Ezzor was, by the way, exactly the kind of attack Obama had promised a year before. This time it was destined to be a one-off, because the Russians were there to prevent it from happening again. Its thought, in fact, that it was a Pentagon tantrum designed to sabotage the Kerry-negotiated cease-firewhich it didand, as Gareth Porter says, meant as payback to Russia for its poke in the U.S. eye. That means it was a direct defiance of civilian command. Lets see how Donald deals with Mad Dog when that comes up again. The fundamental problem is that theres an inverse relationship between Americas military power and its political strength. That centrifugal tension derives from the increasingly obvious discrepancy between Americas publicly-declared motivations and objectives, and the actual motivations and objectiveswhich cannot be publicly declared, but which the results of American actions make harder to hide. In the Syrian case, it plays out like this: Russia supports the Syrian state against the jihadis. Thats what it says its doing, and thats what it is doing. You can support that or oppose it, and its clear what youre supporting or opposing. The US, on the other hand, is supporting: reactionary religious monarchism, the destruction of secular nationalism, Zionism, Turkish neo-Ottoman ambitions, capitalism and neoliberal globalism, oil and gas drilling and pipeline rights, etc. But the American (and European) people arent going to want to fight, die, or give up their Social Security and Medicare for any of that. So the government of the U.S. cannot say what its actually doing, and wraps it up in a bullshit fairy tale about democracy and humanitarianism, which its client regimes in Europe and its global media agents promote around the world incessantly. This story only sells as long as people accept the legitimacy of the sourcewhich means as long as they have enough material comfort, and as long as they only get the story from approved sources. But thats over. All of it. People no longer have, and will not be getting back, lives of increasing material comfort, and they are no longer limited to, and wont be swallowing whole, the blather thats intoned by multi-million-dollar news anchors (which is why there will be continuing futile attempts to shut down, or steer people away from, alternative media). In Facebook world, Russia and Syria are in a relationship. The United States? Well, it has Turkey, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Jordan, al-Nusra (bad al-Qaeda), Jabhat Fateh al-Sham (good al-Qaeda), ISIS, the Free Syrian Army, the Army of Conquest, the Kurds, France, Belgium, Holland, Germany, the rest of Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve, Refugee Nation, and Croatia? Its complicated. Whose Timeline would you want to get involved in? To be more successful, the U.S. will have to drop all the doo-dads that are dressing up the imperialism, and be more explicitly ruthless. It will have to drop the pretension of fighting for democracy and humanitarianism or respecting international law, and just be, like: Lets just take the oil. Precisely what our new president promises. Weve exhausted the Smooth Operator; time to try the Huckster. Different salesman, same product. But that shift will introduce further political weakness, at home and in the world, forcing more reliance on dangerous military aggression, undermining further the worlds bestest, diversest, peace-lovingest democracy political-ideological foundation thats absolutely crucial for stable imperial rule. The United States will start losing Europe, and from there, even Hamilton wont save it. Thats exactly the conundrum you hear John Kerry struggling with in that remarkable audio tape. Its increasingly clear that the United States can achieve nothing but destruction, in Syria or anywhere else. But it can achieve that, and as a failing and flailing enterprise, it may double and triple down on its destructive impulse. Even if, and precisely because, it has now met some effective resistance in Syria, it may engage in dangerous provocations designed to put those international actors capable of military resistanceRussia and Chinaback in their assigned places. Sorry, there is nothing very hopeful in this scenario. Its nouveau great-power geopolitics in which there is no left or progressive force of any significance. We are going to have to do some unfriending, and make a lot more bad and unfortunate choices. Jah rule. Follow @ThePolemicist_ on Twitter The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Information Clearing House.
Trump's Presidency-by-tweet, Bad for Muslims, Great for Isis Compared to the platitudinous, snide, divisive, war-mongering rant the world received from Trump, George W Bush was a visionary By Robert Fisk January 27, 2017 " Information Clearing House " - " The Independent " - A bad day for Muslims, Id call it. The only mention they got in the inaugural tweet was pure Hollywood, and very dangerous. Radical Islamic terrorism we will eradicate completely from the face of the earth. Shorn of its Biblical reference  the face of the earth comes from Genesis, does it not?  it was the biggest threat Trump could offer his people.



Quite apart from the fact that he cant eradicate terrorism without looking at why it flourishes (something Donald Trump showed he had no interest in, for this was the most nationalist, selfish inaugural in US history), his 20-minute commercial for Trumpism is likely to be the finest rallying cry the cultists of Isis have received since they started chopping off heads, blowing up monuments and destroying the beliefs of their co-religionists.



When you open your heart to patriotism, there is no room for prejudice. We will bring back our dreams. Protect our borders from the ravages of other countries. Yes, all this and more.



And what ravages would they be, I wonder? The Middle East got not a whimper in this tweet-fest, save for that one belligerent eradication. Indeed, Trump plans to completely eradicate radical Islamic terrorism without the slightest indication of how this ambitious project might be completed.



But we can guess. Just look at previous presidents at their inaugurals. Back in 1957, Eisenhower told Americans that only in respecting the hopes and cultures of others will we practise the equality of all nations. Take a look at George W Bush  when we thought he represented the worst kind of presidential monster America could produce  who at his second inaugural said that the survival of liberty in our land increasingly depends on the success of liberty in other lands. The best peace in our world, he added, is the expansion of freedom in all the world. Bush even mentioned the Koran.



Compared to the platitudinous, snide, divisive, war-mongering rant the world received from Trump, George W was a visionary.



No-one expected Trump to go along with Obamas high-class inaugural street cred about seeking a new way forward with the Muslim world based on mutual interest and mutual respect. After Islam, Trump went for crimes, gangs and drugs  American carnage, he called it  and the need to protect our borders from the ravages of other countries.



Quite a lot of nations in the Middle Eastern region, in which Isis leapt out at us, would also like to protect their borders from foreign invasion by the US  Iraq and Afghanistan come to mind  and from the carnage of unmanned drones and special forces operations and massive arms shipments to states whose citizens flock to the Isis colours: Saudi Arabia pops up here, although we can be sure Trump has not the slightest intention of interfering in the Kingdoms affairs.



But maybe defending other nations borders while refusing to defend our own was intended to frighten the Gulf potentates who are Trumps natural friends rather than Nato. From this day forward  the nearest, I suppose, to Kennedys Let the word go forth  its going to be only America first. This was a far cry from the same Kennedys call for a struggle against the common enemies of man (tyranny, poverty, disease, war). All Trump could talk about was American poverty  the other three enemies did not cross his lips as he addressed the people of the richest country on earth.



Outsiders cant begrudge a president who wants to heed the call of a people who believe they have been marginalised  especially by the elite and privileged few, although we all know that elitism and privilege are the hallmarks of Trumps own proposed new cabinet. But there was a lack of grace, of eloquence, of charity, of compassion for anyone outside America that marked the inaugural speech of the 45th president. And if you strung out the quotes  almost every single one  each would make a perfect tweet. Is that the way the man thinks? This was a commercial break with a sporting victory: America will start winning again!



No wonder that, in these next 24 hours, media editors are going to be fighting over the best inaugural soundbites. Linguists should put this stuff through a semantics machine. We will get the job done! That all changes right here  and right now! The forgotten men and women of our country will be forgotten no longer! When you open your heart to patriotism, there is no room for prejudice! I will never, ever let you down! We will bring back our dreams! We will shine for everyone to follow! We must think big and think even bigger! The time for empty talk is over! You will never be ignored again! Trump even thought his country was standing at the heart of a new millenium, 16 years after it began.



Its easy to say that something was getting loose here. Does America no longer exist in a world in which others desire justice and human rights, two qualities which Trump totally ignored? Is Americas only war with radical Islamic terrorism? And to win this particular victory completely, how will he treat the Muslims of America unless, when wounded, they bleed the same red blood of patriots?



But fear not. The worlds media will be giving this wretched man the benefit of their democratic doubt. Politicians will whinge and whine at Trumps vindictiveness (Michael Gove set the standard a few days ago) and Theresa May has already shown us how shell slide away from Palestine in the interests of the new US administration. The Arab states themselves  wait for it  will be among the most fawning of the new presidents acolytes. Israel doesnt have to bother.



I can do no better, perhaps, than quote the great Israeli philosopher/activist/writer/patriot/leftist iconoclast Uri Avnery, a 93-year-old veteran of Israels first war, who said a few hours before the inauguration of Donald Trump that he will be an entertainer president the question is, do we really want the most powerful man in the world to be an entertainer? Or an overblown egomaniac? A man who knows nothing and believes that he can solve everything?



Avnery, already hard of hearing when I last saw him in Tel Aviv, recalled going to school as a little boy in Nazi Germany. The inauguration in Washington was a Historic Day, he wrote. I dont like Historic Days. I remember such a day when young men with festive torches and arcane symbols on their arms were parading through Berlin. The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Information Clearing House.
Terrorism: How the Israeli State Was Won By Tom Suarez On December 14, Tom Suarez spoke at The House of Lords, London, at the invitation of Baroness Jenny Tonge. Drawing from his recently published book State of Terror, he addressed the centennial of the Balfour Declaration and his views on the way toward ending todays Israel-Palestine conflict. The following are Suarezs remarks. The book was reviewed here by David Gerald Fincham. January 27, 2017 " Information Clearing House " - " Unz Review " - Good evening, thank you so much for taking time out of what I know are your busy schedules to be here now. My thanks to Jenny Tonge for making this meeting possible; and I would like to thank three people without whom the book would not exist: Karl Sabbagh, my publisher; Ghada Karmi, who inspired the book; and my partner, Nancy Elan, who was my constant alter-ego during my research and without whom I surely would have given up. My work is based principally on declassified source documents in the National Archives in Kew. When I have had to rely on published works, I have trusted established historians who cite first-hand sources. Everything I will say here tonight is based on such source material. Our topic is of course the so-called conflict in Israel-Palestine, a tragedy that has dragged on for so long that it feels static, indeed almost normalised. But unlike other deadly conflicts, this one is wholly in our power to stopour meaning the United States and Europe. It is in our power to stop it, because we are the ones empowering it. We are now approaching the centennial of the British Original Sin in this tragedy, the Balfour Declaration. The British role in Palestine was a case of hit & run: The Balfour Declaration, in which the British gave away other peoples land, was the hit; and thirty years later, Resolution 181Partitionwas the run, leaving the Palestinians abandoned in a ditch. Zionism was of course among the incarnations of racial-nationalism that evolved in the late nineteenth century. Bigots were Zionisms avid fansit was the anti-Semites who championed the Zionists. Gertrude Bell, the famous English writer, traveler, archaeologist, and spy, reported, based on her personal experience, that those who supported Zionism did so because it provided a way to get rid of Jews. The London Standards correspondent to the first Zionist Conference in 1897 I think described Zionism perfectly. He reported that the degeneration which calls itself Anti-Semitism [bear in mind that anti-Semitism was then a very new term] has begotten the degeneration which adorns itself with the name of Zionism. Indeed, most Jews and Jewish leaders dismissed Zionism as the latest anti-Semitic cult. They had fought for equality, and resented being told that they should now make a new ghettoand worse yet, to do so on other peoples land. They resented being cast as a separate race of people as Zionism demanded. They had had quite enough of that from non-Jewish bigots. For others, the idea of going to a place where one could act out racial superiority was seductive. As the political theorist Eduard Bernstein put it at about the time the Balfour Declaration was being finessed, Zionism is a kind of intoxication which acts like an epidemic. By the time the Balfour Declaration was finalised, thirty-plus years of Zionist settlement had made clear that the Zionists intended to ethnically cleanse the land for a settler state based on racial superiority; and it was the behind-the-scenes demands of the principal Zionist leaders, notably Chaim Weizmann and Baron Rothschild. First-hand accounts of Zionist settlement in Palestine had already painted a picture of violent racial displacement. I will cite one of the lesser known reports, by Dr. Paul Nathan, a prominent Jewish leader in Berlin, who went to Palestine on behalf of the German Jewish National Relief Association. He was so horrified by what he found that he published a pamphlet in January, 1914, in which he described the Zionist settlers as carrying on a campaign of terror modelled almost on Russian pogrom models. A few years later, the Balfour Declarations deliberately ambiguous wording was being finalized. Scepticsand the British Cabinetwere assured that it did not mean a Zionist state. Yet simultaneously, Weizmann was pushing to create that very state immediately. He demanded that his state extend all the way to the Jordan River within three or four years of the Declarationthat is, by 1921and then expand beyond it. In their behind-the-scenes meetings, Weizmann and Rothschild treated the ethnic cleansing of non-Jewish Palestinians as indispensable to their plans, and they repeatedly complained to the British that the settlers were not being treated preferentially enough over the Palestinians. And they insisted that the British must lie about the scheme until it is too late for anyone to do anything about it. In correspondence with Balfour, Weizmann justified his lies by slandering the Palestinians and Jewsthat is, the Middle Easts indigenous Jews, who were overwhelmingly opposed to Zionism and whom Weizmann smeared with classic anti-Semitic stereotypes. The Palestinians he dismissed as, in so many words, a lower type of human, and this was among the reasons he and other Zionist leaders used for refusing democracy in Palestineif the Arabs had the vote, he said, it would lower the Jew down to the level of a native. With the establishment of the British Mandate, four decades of peaceful Palestinian resistance had proved futile, and armed Palestinian resistancewhich included terrorismbegan. Zionist terror became the domain of formal organizations that attacked anyone in the way of its messianic goalsPalestinian, Jew, or British. These terror organizations operated from within the Zionist settlements and were actively empowered and shielded by the settlements and the Jewish Agency, the recognized semi-autonomous government of the Zionist settlements, what would become the Israeli government. There was no substantive difference between the acknowledged terror organizationsmost famously, the Irgun, and Lehi, the so-called Stern Gangand the Jewish Agency, and its terror gang, the Hagana. The Agency cooperated, collaborated, and even helped finance the Irgun. The relationship between the Jewish Agency, and the Irgun and Lehi, was symbiotic. The Irgun in particular would act on behalf of the Hagana so that the Jewish Agency could feign innocence. The Agency would then tell the British that they condemn the terror, while steadfastly refusing any cooperation against it, indeed doing what they could to shield it. The fascist nature of the Zionist enterprise was apparent both to US and British intelligence. The Jewish Agency tolerated no dissent and sought to dictate the fates of all Jews. Children were radicalised as part of the methodology of all three major organizations, and by extension, the Jewish Agency. Britains wake-up call regarding the Zionists indoctrination of children came on the 8th of July, 1938. That day, the Irgun blew up a bus filled with Palestinian villagers. Now, this was not the first time the Irgun had done something of this sort, but this time the British caught the bomber. She was a twelve year old schoolgirl. Teenagers, both boys and girls, were commonly used to plant bombs in Palestinian markets and conduct other terror attacks. Teachers were threatened or removed if they tried to intervene in the indoctrination of their students, and the students themselves were blocked from advancement if they resisted, even being taught to betray their own parents if those parents tried to instill some moderation. Jews who opposed and tried to warn of the emerging fascism were assassinated, and indeed most victims of Zionist assassinationsthat is, targeted, rather than indiscriminatewere Jews. From the beginning of World War II through to the summer of 1947, there were virtually no Palestinian attacks, even though Zionist terror against Palestinians continued. A British explanation for the Palestinians failure to respond in kind was that they understood that the attacks were a trap, intended to elicit a response that the Zionists would frame as an attack against which they would have to defend themselves. This was a Zionist tactic noted by the British as early as 1918, and it remains Israels default strategy today, most blatantly in Gaza, but also in East Jerusalem and the West Bank. As late as the fall of 1947, the Jewish Agency was concerned by the Palestinians failure to respond to its provocation, but when the end of 1947 came and the Jewish Agency could wait no longer for the civil war it needed, it was simply a matter of ratcheting up the terror. Throughout the Mandate period, the takeover and ethnic cleansing of Palestine remained Zionisms unwavering goal. As but one illustration, I will summarize a key meeting of twenty people held in London on the 9th of September, 1941. To be treated as most secret is the red ink heading of the transcript. Present were Weizmann, who had called the meeting, David Ben-Gurion, and other Zionist leaders such as Simon Marks (of Marks & Spencer); and the prominent non-Zionist industrialist, Robert Waley Cohen. Discussing the path to the proposed Jewish State, the conversation ran along the lines of George Orwells still-to-be-published Animal Farm, in which all animals are equal, but some are more equal than others. Anthony de Rothschild began by stressing that there would be no discrimination  against any group of its citizens in the Jewish state, not even to meet immediate needs. Weizmann and Ben-Gurion also assured the sceptics: ArabsPalestinianswould have equal rights. However, they clarified that within that absolute equality, Jewish settlers would have to have special privileges. Weizmanns absolute equality included the transfer of most non-Jews out of Palestine while permitting a certain percentage of Arab and other elements to remain in his Jewish state, the insinuation being as a pool of cheap labour. Anthony de Rothschilds vision of equality and non-discrimination was equally compelling: it depended on turning an Arab majority into a minority, and to achieve this, there would be no equal rights for non-Jews. Cohen found the scheme dangerous, submitting that the Zionists were starting with the kind of aims with which Hitler had started. Cohen did not stop there: he suggested that if a state with equality for everyone were indeed intended, the state should be named with a neutral geographic term. He suggested  Palestine. The others were horrified at this idea, arguing that if the state had a non-Jewish name, they would never get a Jewish majority, in effect acknowledging the use of messianic fundamentalism as a calculated political strategy. In another obvious but rarely spoken admission, Ben-Gurion clarified that the Jewish state was not based on Judaism; it was, rather, based on being a Jew, that is, by the Zionists racial definition. Asked about borders of his settler state, Weizmann continued in the same surreal manner. He replied that he would consider the partition plan proposed by the Peel Commission four years earlier, in 1937, but that the line (the Partition) would be the Jordan. This was nonsensical: the Jordan was the Commissions eastern border for the two states, and so Weizmanns partition meant 100% for his state, 0% for the Palestinians. He went further still: he would very much like to cross the Jordan, that is, take Transjordan along with Palestine. At the end of the meeting Weizmann sought to put his proposals into effect officially in the name of all Jews worldwide. Those against his proposals were, in his word, antisemites. Meanwhile, World War II was raging. What was the Jewish Agencys reaction to the most terrible enemy Jewry has ever known? From the beginning, it was to lobby the Yishuv, the Jewish settlers, not to enlist in the Allied struggle against the Nazis, because doing so would not serve Zionismeven taking advantage of May Day 1940 to lecture the Yishuv to stay in Palestine rather than join the war effort. Another reaction was to conduct a massive theft ring of Allied weapons and munitions, as if, as one British military record put it, paid by Hitler himself. Much has been written on the collaboration between the Zionists and fascists during the war, the best known of course being the Haavara Transfer agreement that broke the anti-Nazi boycott. One of the least known was Lehis attempted collaboration with the Italian fascists. In its nearly concluded Jerusalem Agreement of late 1940, Lehi would help the fascists win the war, and in return the fascists would uproot any Jewish communities not in Palestine and force their populations to Palestine. If this sounds like a scheme so extreme that only fanatical Lehi could have conjured it, it is essentially what the Israeli state ultimately succeeded at in the early 1950smost catastrophically, when it conducted a false-flag terror campaign against Jews in Iraq to destroy that ancient community and move its population to Israel as ethnic fodder. Violence targeting Jews was, and I would argue remains, a core tactic of Zionism. In fact, the single most deadly terror attack of the entire Mandate period was not the bombing of the King David Hotel in 1946 as is commonly thought. Even some of the Irguns bombings of Palestinian markets killed more people than the King David attack. But the most deadly single terror attack was the Jewish Agencys bombing of the immigrant ship Patria in 1940, killing an estimated 267 people, of whom more than 200 were Jews fleeing the Nazis. The Jewish Agency bombed the Patria because it was bringing the DPs to Mauritius, where the British had facilities for them. The Agency needed the DPs to be settlers in Palestine without delay, and was willing to risk the lives of all aboard in order to get the survivors to remainwhich, indeed, they did. In further violence against its Jewish victims, the Agency framed the dead for the bombing. It spread the lie that the DPs themselves blew up the vessel, that they committed mass suicide rather than not go directly to Palestine, posthumously conscripting the dead to serve the Zionist myth. This was no aberration, but the driving principle of the Zionist project: Persecuted Jews served the political project, not the other way around. Another major tactic of violence against Jews by the Jewish Agency and American Zionist leadership was the sabotaging of safe haven in order to force them to Palestine. As but one example, in 1944 US Zionist leaders sabotaged President Roosevelts provisional success in establishing a half million new homes for European DPs, most of these homes in the United States and Britain. When Roosevelts aide Morris Ernst visited the Zionist leaders in an attempt to save the program, he was, in his words, thrown out of parlours and accused of treason treason, because he was Jewish, and the Zionists owned Jews. Nor were those already settled safe. In 1946, the Ashkenazi Chief Rabbi of Palestine, Yitzhak Herzog, conducted a massive kidnapping operation of Jewish orphans that had been adopted by European families when their parents perished years earlier. Removing ten thousand children from their homes was the number he cited to the NY Times as his goal. In the National Archives, I found a copy of his own record of the trip. Herzog railed against the fierce resistance he met in every country by horrified local Jewish leaders who tried to protect the children. But Herzog used his political clout to circumvent them. In France, for example, facing the steadfast refusal of the Jewish leaders to betray the children, Herzog met the Prime Minister of France from whom I demanded promulgation of a law which would oblige every family to declare the particulars of the children it houses, so that those of Jewish background could be exposed and put back in orphanages until they can be shipped to Palestinequite a Kafkaesque twist on Passover for these children who had just been spared the Nazis. Herzogs justification for the kidnappings was that for a Jew to be raised in a non-Jewish home is much worse than physical murder. Yet even this ghastly justification fails to explain what was actually taking place, because at the same time Herzog was rescuing Jewish orphans from this fate much worse than physical murder, his Jewish Agency colleagues were sabotaging Jewish adoptive homes in England for young survivors still in the camps. The real reason for all of it, of course, was that the children were needed to serve the settler project as demographic fodder. To that end, the Jewish Agency had coerced President Truman to segregate Jewish DPs into Zionist indoctrination camps, despite objections that it echoed Nazi behaviour. For these people who had just survived the unthinkable, then severed from the rest of humanity into these brainwashing camps, there was no such thing as free thought. The camps nurtured such fanaticism that it shocked a joint US-UK committee that visited in 1946. Before these camps, few DPs wanted to go to Palestine. But now the Committee found them in a delirious state, threatening mass suicide if they did not go to Palestine. Suggestions of new homes in the United States, which had always been the favored destination, were again met with threats of mass suicide. DPs were also groomed to bring Zionist terrorism to Europe, bombing Allied trains and Allied facilities. The bombing of the British embassy in Rome in 1946, for example, was by DPs brainwashed in these camps, as was a near-catastrophe in the Austrian Alps in 1947 when DPs nearly blew a train off a steep trestle into a deep abyss, which would almost certainly have sent its two hundred civilians and Allied troops to their deaths. German Jewish immigrants to Palestine during war were outraged by the Zionists exploitation of the Nazi horrors they had just fled. This outrage given voice by, among others, the prominent journalist Robert Weltsch, editor of Berlin newspaper until banned by the Nazis in 1938. Weltsch warned that Zionist leaders have not yet understood that the enemy seeks the destruction of the Jews  We who have been here only a few years, we know what Nazism is. Zionists, rather, are taking part in the crash of European Jewry only as spectators, fighting the British and keeping Jews from joining the Allied struggle while getting comfortable and rich from their political project in Palestine. Recent immigrants from Germany and Central Europe, he said, have no representation among the Zionist ruling establishment. If they did, we would have demanded that the Yishuv should put itself at the disposal of Britain for the fight against Hitler and Nazism. Butand I am still quoting Weltsch They do not want to fight against Hitler because his fascist methods are also theirs  They do not want our young men to join the [Allied] Forces  day after day they are sabotaging the English War Effort. These German Jewish immigrants were shunned by the Zionists, their publications and presses bombed. Even Kiosks were bombed for selling non-Hebrew papers to German Jewish immigrants. In 1943, a man whom British records describe as a Jew whose integrity is not open to question risked his life to warn the British about the threat of Zionism. For his safety, he was referred to only by the code-name Z. Z described Zionism as a parallel movement to Nazism. He warned that the Zionist indoctrination of Jewish youth was producing a society of extremists who will use any method necessary to achieve Zionist goals; and he pointed out that, as fascism in Europe has demonstrated, such a society is very difficult to undo once it has taken root. The result, Im afraid, is what we, or more accurately the Palestinians, are facing today in the so-called conflict. How trustworthy is this anonymous testimony? I found at the National Archives a private letter in which Z is identified  he was J.S. Bentwich, the Senior Inspector of Jewish Schools in Palestine. Zionists would have got further towards rescuing the unfortunates in Axis Europe, had they not complicated the question by always dragging Palestine into the picture so judged a report by US Intelligence in the Middle East, dated the 4th of June, 1943, entitled Latest Aspects of the Palestine Zionist-Arab Problem. It described Zionism in Palestine as a type of nationalism which in any other country would be stigmatised as retrograde Nazism, and stated that anti-Semitism was essential to it. Whereas assimilated Jews in Europe and America are noted for being  stout opponents of racialism and discrimination, Zionism has bred the opposite mentality in Palestine, a spirit closely akin to Nazism, namely, an attempt to regiment the community, even by force, and to resort to force to get what they want. US intelligence assailed the crude conception being spread of the Palestinian people as a nomad tent-dweller  with a little seasonal agriculture, as being too absurd to need refutation. The report noted the irony that it was from them that Zionist settlers learned the cultivation of Jaffa oranges. Whereas the Palestinians were self-sufficient, the Zionist settlements exist on massive external financing, and should Jews overseas ever tire of supporting the settlers, the venture will collapse like a pricked balloon. The conclusion of this early US intelligence report was however naive, or at least premature: now that the world has seen the lengths to which the Nazi creed has carried the nations, it reasoned that the Zionists are due to find themselves an anachronism. After the war, the Jewish Agency discussed its enemies. They were democracy; the Atlantic Charter, which of course became the basis for the United Nations; Reconstruction; and the fall in anti-Semitism, anti-Semitism having always been Zionisms drug, without which it would be irrelevant. The Agency sought to exploit anti-Semitism and blamed declining anti-Semitism in the United States on Americas so-called democratic attitude. Nor was this merely a post-war abuse. Even as Jews were still being carted off to the death camps, the New Zionist Organizations Arieh Altman was typical in arguing that anti-Semitism must form the foundation of Zionist propaganda, and the Defence Security Officer in Palestine, Henry Hunloke, reported that it was important for the Jewish Agency to stir up anti-Semitism  in order to force Jews  to come to Palestine. Now, today, when anything approaching this topic is raised, it is twisted by some into the pejorative misstatement that the speakerin this case, meis blaming Jews for anti-Semitism. NO . Rather, it is the simple fact that Zionism requires anti-Semitism, is addicted to it, and seeks to insure that it, or at least the appearance of it, never ends. One need look no further than the satisfaction among many Zionists today at the true anti-Semitism of the incoming US administration of Donald Trump, with Israeli journalists like Yaron London openly applauding this anti-Semitism as welcome news. More about that in a few minutes. I also mentioned Reconstruction. As one former settlement member, a man named Newton, explained, Zionist leaders were afraid that with the improvement of conditions in Europe the pressure on Palestine would subside. Any improvement in Europe was an anathema to their plans. What was the Jewish Agencys reaction to Britains role in defeating the worst enemy Jewry has ever known? It saw an opportunity for extortion. The war had devastated Britains economy; but when Britain turned to the US for a long term loan to recuperate from its battle against the Nazis, the Agency tried to pressure Washington to deny the loan unless Britain acceded to Zionist demands. The loan was of course ultimately approved, but still in 1948 Zionists assailed US Congressmen for being pro- Marshall Plan, and the Truman administration itself dangled the loan in front of British officials when they tried to bring attention to Zionist atrocities. By 1946, Zionist terrorism had become the defining daily challenge of life in Palestine, and one hundred thousand British troops proved unable to contain it. Anyone or anything that kept Palestine a functioning society was a target of the Zionists. Trains, roads, bridges, communications, oil facilities, and Coast Guard stations were constantly being bombed. Utility workers, telephone repairmen, railway workers, bomb disposal personnel were murdered. Police were long a favoured target and were gunned down by the dozens. Among the smaller terror organizations that popped up was one specifically dedicated to Zionists long-running fear of Jews befriending non-Jews, the ultimate fear of course being polluting what for the Zionists was the pure Jewish race. As a sample of its methods, the terror group doused a disobedient Jewish girl with acid, severely injuring her and blinding her in one eye. Zionist terror was aided by the Jewish Agencys phenomenal intelligence network. The Agency had informers all the way to high-placed sympathetic US officials that fed them intelligence, such that the British learned not even to trust direct messages to US President Truman. When the UNs Palestine committee, UNSCOP, visited Palestine in the summer of 1947, the Agency had replaced the committee members drivers with spies; had replaced the waiters at the main restaurant they frequented with spies; and most productively, sent five young women to serve at what was called a theatre network of house attendants at the building where the members, all men, were being housed. The young women were required to be smart and educated, but above all, in the Agencys word, to be daring. Whatever daring meant, they extracted a wealth of information from the key people who were deliberating Palestines future. Jewish sex workers were involuntarily recruited as spies. They were told that upon the Zionist victory they would be executed for sleeping with the enemy, but might be spared if they cooperated now. The practice was so widespread that a standard questionnaire was printed up that the women were to fill out after each British customer. [note: see document detail, above] To demonstrate the degree to which Jewish Agency plants infiltrated the government and everyday life, a couple of months after one coast guard station was attacked and bombed by the Hagana, it blew up again  but the British were baffled, because this time there had been no attack. They discovered that the construction crew that had rebuilt the station after the previous attack were Hagana, and had simply embedded explosives in the reconstruction, to be detonated when desired. But the worst problem of infiltration was in the military service, where deadly sabotage by Zionist plants who had joined the forces led, tragically, to orders to remove all Jews from service in Palestine, because there was no way to tell the Zionists from the Jews. By 1948, this problem spread to key medical personnel. After the Jewish Agency poisoned the water supply of Acre with typhoid in order to expedite the ethnic cleansing of this city that lies on the Palestinian side of Partition, the bacteriologist hired by the British proved to be a Hagana plant or sympathizer, an obstacle to the availability of the vaccine. [Note: see document detail, below. For the injection of typhoid into the aqueduct at Acre, see e.g., Ilan Pappe, Ethnic Cleansing, pp 100-101, and Naeim Giladi, Ben Gurions Scandals, pp 10-11] Selling terror required effective marketing, and for that the Agency harnessed the plight of European Jews at the same time it was exploiting them. A very brief look at the iconic Zionist immigrant story is illustrativethat is of course the USS Warfield, renamed the Exodus for the obvious Biblical iconography. The Exodus was sold to the world as the desperate attempt of 4,515 Holocaust survivors to reach their last hope of safety and a new life, their promised land. The British, instead, forced them back, not just to Europe, but to their ultimate nightmare: Germany. That was the story the US and European public got. In truth, the Exodus was a monstrous propaganda event, grand theatre, not for benefit but at the expense of Jewish survivors. The Jewish Agency knew that Exodus passengers would be turned back, for, among other reasons, their flooding of Palestine with settlers was a tactic to force its political goals. And remember that the entire Exodus cargo of immigrants equalled less than one percent of President Roosevelts resettlement plan that the Zionists sabotaged. The DPs themselves were products of the Zionist camps and had been rehearsed to repeat, as one witness described it, whatever Zionist mumbo-jumbo was demanded of them. As for the return to Germany, it was the Jewish Agency, not the British, that forced the DPs back to Germany. Attempts were being made to find new homes for the Exodus passengers elsewhereDenmark was one possibilitybut this was sabotaged by Ben-Gurion, because it would spoil the Exodus plot. There was in fact already an alternative to Germany. All the Exodus DPs had the right to disembark in Southern France rather than Germany, but the Agency used violence to prevent them from leaving. The Exodus show required the pathetic spectacle of their forced return to Germany. The British decided to call the Agencys bluff. They visited Golda Meir (then Meyerson), and spoke as though it went without saying that the Agency would do anything to spare the DPs the horrific return to Germany. They said that perhaps the DPs do not realize that they are free to disembark in southern France if they wish, or do not believe the British, and suggested that the Agency send a representative to tell them. Meir refused. To paraphrase Israeli Professor Idith Zertal, the greater the suffering of these survivors of the Holocaust, the greater their political and media effectiveness for the Zionists. A few months after the Exodus affair, the UN recommended partition, with the assumption that a Zionist state would follow. This decision was directly influenced by the certainty of continuing Zionist terror if they did not, as was the disproportionately large land area the UN gave the Zionists. According to British Cabinet papers, giving the Zionists so much land up front was an attempt to delay the Zionists expansionist wars. They knew they couldnt stop Israeli expansionism, but they hoped to delay it. This appeasement of course failed: within a few months of Resolution 181, the Zionist armies were already waging their first expansionist war, confiscating more than half of the Palestinian side of Partition. But in a consummately Orwellian irony, the fact that the British were occupying Palestine enabled Zionist leaders to juxtapose their settler project as a liberation movement against British colonizers, and thus for their 1948 terror campaign of expropriation and ethnic cleansing to be spun instead as a war of independence or emancipation. This so-called war of independence was in truth, to quote the British High Commissioner at the time, operations based on the mortaring of terrified women and children. Its broadcasts boasting of their successes, both in content and in manner of delivery, are remarkably like those of Nazi Germany. The Zionists were jubilant he reported, with their campaign of calculated aggression coupled with brutality. British intelligence, meanwhile, reported that the internal machinery of the Jewish State and all the equipment of a totalitarian regime is complete, including a Custodian of Enemy Property to handle Arab lands. In the Yishuv itself, persecution of Christian Jews, by which I assume they meant converts, and others who offend against national discipline has shown a marked increase and in some cases has reached mediaeval standards. All this, to be sure, was before any Arab resistance. Finally, on the 15th of May, 1948, Britain fled the scene of its crime, for which the Palestinians have been paying ever since. The post-statehood period continued full throttle with the same violent messianic goals, evolving with the new dynamics. Now, there is no point in my having taken up your time here, no point any tree wasting its paper on this book, unless I thought that it had some value in the collective effort toward ending the conflict. So  How do I think that this book, how do I think my approach, might be constructive? The historical record makes plain what should already have been obvious from the present realitythat Israels and Zionisms pretenses regarding Jews and Judaism, and in particular its pretense of being a response to anti-Semitism and Jewish persecution, is a fraud. Indeed quite the opposite, it thrives by exacerbating and capitalizing on these, and has turned them into a cynical, deadly business. Exposing this, in my opinion, is Israelsand the conflictsAchilles Heel. And this should be a simple case of the Emperors New Clothesexcept that every time the child points out that the Emperor is naked, he or she is labelled an anti-Semite and silenced. The US and other governments empower the conflict for their own geopolitical reasons, but why do the publics of those allegedly democratic countries give their tacit acquiescence? Israel has one of the worlds largest militaries, but its most powerful weapon, the one without which all its others would be impotent, is its Narrative, its creation myth, its auto-biography. Under the Twilight Zone of this Narrative, Israel is not merely a political entity like any other nation-state, but is transformed into the Old Testament kingdom whose name it adopted for that strategic purpose, striking a powerful chord in the collective Western sub-conscious. We all know the Narrative more or less, but in order for that Narrative to be ever-present, Israel has crammed it into a 3-word mantra: The Jewish State. This phraseIsraels self-identityis a unique construct in the modern world. It is qualitatively distinct from any other countrys relationship with any other religion or cultural group. Judaism is not Israels state religion in the sense of a national faith that any nation might adopt. Rather, it presents itself as THE Jewish state, the metaphysical embodiment of Jewry itself, of Judaism, Jewish history, culture, persecution, and most cynical and exploitative of all, the Holocaust. No country claims it is the Catholic state. Costa Rica, for example, is a Catholic state; it does not suggest that it owns Catholicism, Catholics, or historic Christian martyrdom. We do not have the British government issuing guidelines as to when criticism of the Costa Rican government becomes anti-Catholic hate speech. Norway is a Lutheran state; Tunisia is one of several nations that maintains Islam as a national faith; Cambodia is a Buddhist state. Israel, in contrast, would never acknowledge even the possibility of another Jewish state because it has body-snatched everything Jewish, and holds it hostage to empower its crimes. Criticise Israeli terror, you will instead hit this three-word human shieldThe Jewish State that Israel hides behind.

What other country on this earth is permitted this perverse tribal claim over a religious or cultural group? This self-proclaimed exceptionalism should strike us as bizarreeven weirdyet we continue to be party to it. We hear a lot about anti-Semitism these days, and there is of course anti-Semitism in the world, as there are all varieties of bigotry. But lets just blurt out the obvious: Virtually all of the alleged anti-Semitism we hear about from the Zionists is a lie, smears calculated to silence anyone who seeks to end the horror. This smear campaign has been compared to the McCarthy witch hunt of the 1950s, but it is in truth much worse, because whereas Communism is merely a political and economic theory that one can argue for or against, anti-Semitism is inherently evil. In other words, with McCarthyism, one could ultimately respond by saying, Well, lets say I am a communist, so what? Zionisms abuse of anti-Semitism, its exploitation of Judaism and historic Jewish persecution for immoral ends, is profoundly anti-Semitic. Zionism, taken at its word, makes Judaism complicit in its crimes, and thustaken at its wordsucceeds where all the conventional bigots throughout the centuries were powerless. Meanwhile, as we are seeing more bluntly than ever in the United States, true anti-Semitism is embraced by Zionists because it is invariably pro-Israel. One hundred years ago, MP Edwin Montagu accused the British government of anti-Semitism for colluding with the Zionists. History has proven him correct. If Israel is forced to stop this anti-Semitic abuse, if it is forced to come out from hiding behind its human shield, the conflict will be seen for what it is and so could not continue. Israel-Palestine will become a democratic, secular country of equals. And what more poetic year than the Balfour centennial for that to happen. Thank you. Reprinted from MondoWeiss In case you missed it; Miko Peled Debunking Jewish Myths : Video - When Everything You Know Is Not True: Miko Peled is a peace activist who dares to say in public what others still choose to deny." The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Information Clearing House.
Al-Qaeda Consolidates Its Front Groups In Syria By Moon Of Alabama January 27, 2017 " Information Clearing House " - " Moon Of Alabama " - A few days ago Al-Qaeda in Syria and the Salafist Takfiri group Ahrar al Sham produced a show claiming they were fighting each other. I fell for it and wrote: The Turkish, Russian and Iranian governments had agreed on talks in Astana in Kazakhstan between delegations from "moderate" militant groups in Syria and the Syrian government. Ahrar al Sham, which ideologically borders between al-Qaeda and the "moderates", was also invited. It declined to take part in solidarity with the not invited designated terrorist group Jaish Fateh al-Sham (the former Nusra Front aka al-Qaeda in Syria). Russia had suggested the talks with the intent of separating the "moderate" Takfiris under Turkish control from the designated "terrorist" Takfiris. The talks had no immediate results but still achieved their purpose. Shortly after the talks began al-Qaeda attacked Ahrar al Sham. After some on and off fighting al-Qaeda started yesterday to attack all "moderate" Takfiri groups in Idleb and Aleppo governate. I was wrong. Ahrar did not fight with al-Qaeda, al-Qaeda did not attack it. As far as one can tell they coordinated their actions for the purpose of eliminating smaller "rebel" groups under the disguise of Takfiri infighting. Those smaller groups are led by local war lords and supported by Turkey and the CIA. They all had earlier cooperated with al-Qaeda which provided the "storm troopers" for their attacks on Syrian government forces. They recently took part in the Astana talks while Ahrar declined in solidarity with al-Qaeda. The ruse came to light when the "reports" of Ahrar and al-Qaeda infighting were not followed up with any reports of casualties, neither from the sides of those groups nor from any other account. How can there have been fighting when no one was killed or wounded? Ehsani explains the situation: Thread on Battles in #Idlib: All battles that took place in Naaman & Jabal Al Zawiye are imaginary battles that were essentially prearranged

2-The main purpose of these prearranged battles is to swap checkpoints of #Ahrar with #Nusra and vice versa

3-Even the v public battle in village of Dana is also imaginary as shooting that took place involved firing in the air around Dana crossing

4-Even news of arrest of the two Nusra security officers is untrue as both spent the time at residence of Amr al jeldi, Emir of #Ahrar

5-This #Ahrar Emir's residence in M'araa acted as joint operations center for both #Ahrar & #Nusra to coordinate this entire scenario

6-Importantly, it appears that there has not been a single casualty yet during these entire so-called battles That report has since been confirmed by several other accounts and sources on the ground. Al-Qaeda in Syria (aka Jaish Fateh al-Sham aka Nusra Front) did attack several local groups, raided their headquarters and confiscated their CIA supplied weapon and ammunition caches. One major alliance of local groups, the Army of Mujaheddin, was eliminated. Other local groups took refuge by joining Ahrar al-Sham: SOHR was informed that the factions of Soqor al-Sham, alMOjahdin Army, Eqtasim Kama Amart grouping, al-Islam Army in Idlib and the Shamia front in western Aleppo, joined Ahrar al-Sham Islamic faction against Fateh al_Sham front It seem that the plan for now is to keep Ahrar al-Sham as a "moderate" front group for al-Qaeda while eliminating all other "moderate" forces on the ground. Parts of Ahrar al-Sham take part in the Turkish "Euphrates Shield" operation against the Islamic State while al-Qaeda in Syria is no longer openly supported by the Turkish state. The ruse of the claimed fight between Ahrar and al-Qaeda is used to uphold a distinction between these groups even when hardly any exists. Ahrar al-Sham was, like al-Qaeda in Syria, founded by a senior member of al-Qaeda central under command of the al-Qaeda's central leader Ayman al-Zawahiri. There once were components within Ahrar that argued for a less radical course. But other significant parts had argued for officially joining al-Qaeda. The middle ground found now is to cooperated with al-Qaeda as a means for absorbing all other "rebel" groups on the ground while keeping up good relations with Turkey. Some (minor) ideological differences between Ahrar and al-Qaeda in Syria still exist. It is expected that a fight for primacy will indeed start between (parts of) these two groups in the not so distant future. But that will only happen after all weaker groups on the ground are eliminated and after Ahrar is exposed and can no longer act as a Turkish supported intermediary for weapons and other supplies. The Associated Press still reports fighting between Ahrar and Al-Qaeda based on quotes of the Gulf propagandist Charles Lister. Like us it fell for the ruse. Unlike us it will probably stick to the fake version. The ruse will thus have worked in deceiving the "western" public and decision makers. The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Information Clearing House.
The crisis rocking the Kogi State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) took a new turn on Friday when some members protested against Senator Dino Melaye and Rep. Abiodun Faleke.

The peaceful protest which was held at Kabba was led by the state Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria ( ALGON), Mr Taufiq Isah, who denounced Sen. Dino Melaye and Hon. Abiodun Faleke for working against the interest of the party.

Melaye currently represents Kogi West senatorial district in the Senate while Faleke was the running mate to the late Gov.Abubakar Audu and also represents Ifako -Ijaiye Federal constituency of Lagos State in the House of Representatives.

They accused them of working against the interest of the Yoruba speaking people of Kogi State and urged them to desist.

The protesters also carried their grievances to the palaces of traditional rulers in Okunland and appealed to them to call the duo to order.

Their utterances and actions are against the development of the various communities in the western senatorial district of the state,  Isa, said.

The protesters later assembled at Kabba where a communique issued at the end of a stakeholders meeting was read by Isah.

In the communique , the stakeholder denounce, reject and disown in all ramifications all action, utterances and activities that are inimical to the progress and development of Okun people.

It denounced actions and utterances against the administrations of President Muhamadu Buhari and Alhaji Yahaya Bello and their new direction policies.

Their actions are at best, self serving, insensitive to the yearnings of Okun people, a misdirected fight for positions which are of no benefit for the Okun people they claim to be representing, the communique read.

Addressing the protesters at Kabba, a traditional ruler, the Obadofin of Kabbaland , Chief Michael Yusuf, said anyone working against Bello was an enemy of the people of Okun.

He expressed the support of the entire people of Okunland for Bello and charged him to continue with his programme of charting a new direction for the state.

In his reaction, Melaye described the development as unfortunate, accusing the protesters and the state governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello of working against the interest of the party.

He also expressed shock that the people opted for protest to celebrate one year in office of Bello, saying that Kogi is celebrating one year of agony, pain and distress .

The senator, who spoke through his special assistant on media, Mr Gideon Ayodele, said that the protest was  a minus for the state government to be celebrating one year in office and the only APC senator from the state is not present.

 The state chairman of the party is not present, the three zonal chairmen of the party are in Abuja and 16 out of the 21 local government chairmen are in Abuja.

This is to tell the whole world that the governor is working in isolation of the structure of the party in the state. Whatever they are doing, they are doing it for themselves and it is for their pockets only, he said.

Source: NAN
A London court on Thursday sided with Shell oil, in a lawsuit that accuses the company of polluting precious water and farmland in Nigeria for decades.

Two communities brought the suit against a Nigerian subsidiary of oil supermajor Royal Dutch Shell, claiming that years of oil spills in the Niger Delta have contaminated valuable life-sustaining resources there.

The case was taken before the High Court in London because the plaintiffs, fishermen and farmers in the communities of Ogale and Bille believe they cannot receive a fair trial in Nigeria.

The court, however, ruled in the subsidiarys favor Thursday by remanding the case to a lower court in Nigeria.

A spokesman for the Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDCN) told BBC News that Thursdays decision was a common sense ruling and dismissed the notion that the villagers could not receive a fair trial in Nigeria.

Its about claims by Nigerians about the operations of a Nigerian company in Nigeria and I think the Nigerian court is the best place to handle that, SPDCN spokesman Igo Weli said.

Weli added that the company believes the pollution outlined in the lawsuit is the result of criminal activity  not negligence on Shells part.

Its about incidents related to sabotage, illegal refining and crude thefts, he said. Bille and Ogale are two communities that have been severely impacted by those activities, which is a major source of pollution in the Niger Delta.

Plaintiffs, who said they are disappointed by the court ruling, argue that the SPDCN operates under the ownership of Royal Dutch Shell  which is partly headquartered in London  so the case should be heard in the British capital.

We are confident that, as in the Netherlands, the court of appeal will see things differently, Ogales leader, King Emere Godwin Bebe Okpabi, said. Royal Dutch Shell makes billions of dollars of profit each year from Nigerian oil, but our communities which host its infrastructure have been left environmentally devastated.

The pollution in the Niger Delta affects about 45,000 people who live there.
The founder of Facebook, Mark Zuckerberg, has blasted President Donald Trump of the United States, on his move to deport immigrants from the United States.

Zuckerberg said this after Trump announced his plan to deport 3 million immigrants.

In his reaction, the multi billionaire stated that his great grandparents where from Germany, Austria and Poland.While his wife Priscillas parents were refugee from China and Vietnam.

The Facebook founder wrote on his page: My great grandparents came from Germany, Austria and Poland. Priscillas parents were refugees from China and Vietnam. The United States is a nation of immigrants, and we should be proud of that.

Like many of you, Im concerned about the impact of the recent executive orders signed by President Trump.

We need to keep this country safe, but we should do that by focusing on people who actually pose a threat.

Expanding the focus of law enforcement beyond people who are real threats would make all Americans less safe by diverting resources, while millions of undocumented folks who dont pose a threat will live in fear of deportation.

We should also keep our doors open to refugees and those who need help. Thats who we are. Had we turned away refugees a few decades ago, Priscillas family wouldnt be here today.

That said, I was glad to hear President Trump say hes going to work something out for Dreamers  immigrants who were brought to this country at a young age by their parents.

Right now, 750,000 Dreamers benefit from the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program that allows them to live and work legally in the US.

I hope the President and his team keep these protections in place, and over the next few weeks Ill be working with our team at FWD.us to find ways we can help.

Im also glad the President believes our country should continue to benefit from people of great talent coming into the country.

These issues are personal for me even beyond my family. A few years ago, I taught a class at a local middle school where some of my best students were undocumented. They are our future too.

We are a nation of immigrants, and we all benefit when the best and brightest from around the world can live, work and contribute here.

I hope we find the courage and compassion to bring people together and make this world a better place for everyone, he added.

Recall that upon Trumps emergence as President, reports made the rounds that Facebook influenced his victory.

But Zuckerberg has rubbished growing criticism that Facebook helped him emerge winner.

He insisted that the small amount of fake news that spread on the social network during the election did not influence the outcome.

Source: Dailypost


Melania Trump has said her primary aim as first lady will be to tackle cyber-bullying, and it looks like she is about to make good on that claim, kind of, considering she plans to hire a whole team of staffers to combat all the bullying lobbed against herself.

As Washington insiders tell the Daily Mail, Melania Trump is close to finalizing a team to manage the attacks against her and her ten-year-old son Barron.This is clearly a response to Chelsea Handlers vow to never interview Melania because, she can barely speak English.

10-year-old Barron has also been receiving online bullying, most notably by Saturday Night Live writer Katie Rich who tweeted that Barron would become the nations first homeschool shooter. Even former first kid Chelsea Clinton felt bound to stick up for him.According to Page Six, former Vogue staffer and Met Gala organizer, Stephanie Winston Wolkoff, has been tapped as Melanias chief strategist, who will handle hiring the rest of Melanias dont-bully-me team.

How a round-the-clock crew of people hired to battle Melania and Barrons haters will help non-first-family victims of bullying isnt exactly clear. Perhaps, much like the Presidents plan to help the wealthiest Americans first, Melania believes her cyber-bullying defense will have a trickle-down effect.

someecards.com
Nigerian newspaper headlines January 28, 2017.

Premium Times

The Afenifere Renewal Group, ARG, has condemned the proposal by the Northern Governors Forum, NGF, to open a register for immigrant Fulani herdsmen it earlier described as aliens and threats to Nigerias internal security.

Punch

Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun, on Friday visited President Muhammadu Buhari in London.

Guardian

The Executive Director of United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), Ms. Ertharin Cousin, has said that one million returning Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from the Northeast are to be assisted with improved seeds and agricultural inputs in the process of rebuilding destroyed communities during this years cropping season.

Vanguard

The Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos Command of Nigerian Customs Service, NCS, yesterday seized two Bell civil models l Helicopters which were imported into the country last year but remained unclaimed at the ware house of the Skyways Aviation Handling Company Limited ,SAHCOL, at the cargo section of the airport.

The Nation

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) yesterday expressed displeasure at what it perceived as the silence of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo over alleged attacks on Christians in parts of the country. It cited the Southern Kaduna killings which it branded genocide ,and the botched attempt by security operatives to arrest the founder of Omega Fire Ministries, Johnson Suleman, in Akure on Tuesday.

Leadership

The governing board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) yesterday set out a 21-Point focus, with a reaffirmation that it is committed to making the commissions activities more transparent for the sustainable development of the Niger Delta region.

Thisday

The Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria (MOMAN) has restated the commitment of its members to support federal governments effort in ensuring sustained and stable supply of petrol across Nigeria at the official price of N145 per litre.
The Oyo State Government has disclosed that 168,450 pupils will benefit from the state Home Grown Feeding programme, an initiative of the federal government.

The state governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi stated this on Friday at the official launch of the programme held at the House of Chiefs, Secretariat, Ibadan, noting that 2,408 public primary schools and 2,578 medically certified fit and trained vendors would benefit from the programme, which is a collaborative effort of the Federal Government and Some State Governments.

The Governor, who was represented by Deputy Governor, Chief Moses Adeyemo, explained that the programme which is part of the Federal Governments social intervention scheme aimed at aiding the provision of basic education through feeding was a welcome development, especially during this period of recession when three square meals have become increasingly rare in the homes of our people.

Senator Ajimobi said that a report by the Food Consumption and Nutrition Survey in Nigeria captured the poor nutritional status of Nigerian children by revealing that 42% of Nigerian children are stunned, 25% underweight, nine percent are wasted, 29.55 suffer from Vitamin A deficiency while over 27% are at different stages of iron and iodine deficiency.

He stressed that the decision of the state to embrace the school feeding programme is a further demonstration of his administrations commitment to tackling the problem of malnutrition among school age children in the state, pointing out that food items for the programme would be bought locally with attendant benefits to local farmers and the whole community which will enhance the sustainability of the programme.

While thanking the Federal Government for the laudable initiative, Governor Ajimobi posited that the AgricOyo initiative of the Oyo State government has no doubt come at the right time considering its potential contributions to the success of the Home Grown school feeding programme.

It is apt to note that the Oyo State Agricultural initiative (also known as AgricOyo) which was recently put in place by our administration, is aimed at providing food for all as well as creating employment opportunities and reducing dependence on food importation, Governor Ajimobi said.

Speaking at the launch, the programme Coordinator of the Home Grown school feeding in Oyo State, Mrs. Adekunle Folasade said that the Federal Government would feed primary 1-3 pupils of public primary schools of one adequate meal per day at the rate of N70 per child, adding that the initiative is meant to achieve the dual objectives of increasing national food production and ensure school children have adequate nutrition.

She said that the school feeding programme would serve as excellent safety net, boost production of homegrown foods by encouraging small scale farming, increase retention and completion rate of primary school pupils and reduce as well as improve nutritional status of primary school pupils.

In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Professor Adeniyi Olowofela implored every stakeholder to leave no stone unturned in ensuring the success of the programme in the state, explaining that the government cannot be physically present everywhere.

He said, We are major stakeholders in our various offices, classrooms and even in market places. We should therefore work together to build a nation where peace and justice reign.

Source: Leadership
Gov. Nyesom Wike of Rivers has stated that the two seized helicopters by the Nigerian Customs Service belong to the Rivers state government and that he officially wrote to President Muhammadu Buhari asking him to hand over the two armoured helicopters to Nigeria Air Force (NAF)

Wike, in a statement issued by his spokesman, Simeon Nwakaudu, in Port Harcourt on Saturday, said he wrote the president because of high custom duties and refusal of the Federal Government to grant waiver on the helicopters.

He said, these helicopters were imported by the immediate past administration; and when I assumed office, we wrote to the Federal Government that the helicopters were strictly for security use.

I went to the Federal Government to give me waiver for us to clear the helicopters but they refused.

Thereafter, I wrote to President Buhari to assure him that the helicopters are meant for security purpose and that it should be handed over to the Nigeria Air Force.

We stated that we cannot pay the custom duties because the helicopters are not for commercial use; but to monitor the creeks and track criminals.

In any case, where will the Rivers Government get money at this time to import armoured helicopters to which the previous administration imported because it had money (at the time).

Im surprised that they have started propaganda and political falsehood on the said armoured helicopters.

What am I going to use armoured helicopters for; what kind of country are they turning Nigeria into? he queried.

Wike said it was unfortunate that some security agencies would allegedly resort to political propaganda and outright lies when facts of the seized armoured helicopters were known.

He said it was shocking that NCS would turn around to claim that it impounded the helicopters rather than telling the truth.

Wike claimed that the chief of staff to the president commended the Rivers government when the letter was delivered to the president.

On Friday, the Murtala Muhammed International Airport Command of NCS handed over two civil model Bell helicopters imported into the country by unknown persons to the NAF.

The Service said the aircraft were seized on Nov. 7 2016. It explained that the aircraft were handed over to NAF because of the failure of the yet-to-be-identified importers to produce end user certificate from the office of the National Security Adviser.

The Customs said the action contravened the Customs and Excise Management Act.

Source: Vanguard
The Presidency has given a clarification on the letter written to the Senate by President Muhammadu Buhari concerning the report of its investigation of allegations against the secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Mr. Babachir Lawal.

Speaking on a BBC HAUSA program Raayi Riga, an audience participation programme on Friday, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Malam Garba Shehu, decried attacks on the President which he said were unwarranted because his letter to the Senate did not dwell on whether the SGF was guilty or not guilty.

What President Buhari has done is simply to act in a response to a report by the SGF, Babachir David Lawal, who insisted that he and the companies cited were not given a fair hearing by the National Assembly.

President Buharis communication to Nigerias lawmakers was simply this: If the SGF was not given a fair hearing, can you now give him one?

The Presidency added that the report in discussion, was an interim one and a final report was, therefore, being expected.

Malam Garba said it would not have been advisable to act on the matter before a final report was received from the legislature.

He said that as fervent as President Buhari is about the war on corruption, he believes in due process and in fair hearing, without which our democracy cannot be taken seriously by Nigerians or the international community
The Philippines Department of Finance (DOF) has expressed its appreciation towards Canada for its help in strengthening the countrys microinsurance industry, a positive step in helping more Filipinos have some form of insurance.I would like to thank the Canadian people for their assistance in the microinsurance industry, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said at the 69th anniversary celebration of the Insurance Commission (IC) on Friday.This is certainly a big field that has to be strengthened, and we always appreciate assistance of the Canadian people. I want to assure the Canadian ambassador that none of their taxpayers money is going to be wasted, he added.According to Insurance Commissioner Dennis Funa, the Philippines insurance penetration rate is at 1.75% for 2015. He added that the IC will work towards increasing the penetration rate, with microinsurance as one of its avenues.We will pursue continued growth through microinsurance, Funa told the Business Mirror. We will reach those in the provinces, the poor people, so will continue to promote that.According to the IC, around 26 million Filipinos, or roughly one-fourth of the population, participate in microinsurance as of the third quarter of 2016.That is why I made special mention of the Canadians because they have been helping us in the microinsurance industry, said Dominguez. That is very important. You know, microinsurance is people who pay PHP20 (C$0.53) a day so that they get insurance of half a million pesos (C$13,170), so that is very important for inclusivity and coverage of their risk.
Un ottobre da sogno per Antonio Conte: lex ct della Nazionale italiana, attualmente alla guida del Chelsea, nelle ultime quattro gare di Premier League ha collezionato solo successi, conditi da 11 reti segnate e addirittura nessuna incassata. Numeri da record che non sono certo passati inosservati alla Federazione inglese, la quale ha conferito al tecnico leccese lambito premio di Manager del mese.

Unavventura oltremanica iniziata in sordina, quella di Conte, pur a fronte di tre vittorie nelle prime tre gare di campionato. A far vacillare, anche se solo per un momento, le certezze del patron del club londinese, Roman Abramovich, i risultati conseguiti tra la 4a e la 6a giornata, coincisi con un pareggio sul campo dello Swansea City e, soprattutto, con le due pesanti sconfitte subite dal Liverpool, sul terreno casalingo di Stamford Bridge, e dallArsenal. In particolare, la debacle interna coi Reds, aveva irritato non poco il numero uno russo, poiche occorsa proprio nel giorno della sua 250esima partita da presidente della societa.

Come detto, solo un momento. Dopo lincontro dellEmirates, il tecnico salentino cambia modulo, adottando un piu equilibrato 3-4-3 e inserendo elementi di corsa come lo spagnolo Pedro. Una svolta totale perche, di li in poi, il Chelsea inanellera solo e soltanto vittorie: 2 gol allHull City e al Southampton in trasferta, 3 ai campioni dInghilterra del Leicester e 4 allo United in casa, con un meraviglioso numero zero nella casella delle reti subite. Un fantastico poker, ottenuto tra l1 e il 29 ottobre. Un cambio di marcia sbalorditivo, confermato dal 5 a 0 rifilato ai toffees dellEverton nel primo match di novembre, e una scalata che, man mano, ha portato i blues al secondo posto in classifica, a soli 2 punti dal Liverpool capolista.

E allora, non poteva mancare il riconoscimento di migliore allenatore del mese, ottenuto surclassando tecnici del calibro di Jurgen Klopp (Liverpool), Arsene Wenger (Arsenal) e Mark Hughes (Southampton). Tanta, ovviamente, la soddisfazione: E un grande onore e voglio condividerlo con i giocatori e con la societa  ha dichiarato Conte sul sito ufficiale della Premier League -. E la prima volta che lavoro in un altro Paese, con una cultura diversa, e portare la propria filosofia non e facile, ma ora sono contento di questa scelta.

A completare la festa, la premiazione del fantasista belga, Eden Hazard, come miglior giocatore di ottobre. Due risultati importanti per il club, ottimo incentivo per la rincorsa al trono dei campioni, occupato dal Leicester di Ranieri. Il prossimo appuntamento per l11 di Conte sara al Riverside Stadium, tana del Middlesborough neopromosso. Il tempo di festeggiare e gia finito.
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Ireland is uniquely positioned to seek new opportunities. One area weve focused on is the incredible potential of the digital economy across all business sectors in Ireland, said new American Chamber of Commerce Ireland president James OConnor, who heads up Microsofts EMEA operations centre in Dublin.

While it remains too early to know how President Trumps policies may affect inward investment to Ireland, Mr OConnor said Ireland must work to maintain its competitiveness and attractiveness to investors  particularly in the areas of education, costs and infrastructure.
The dentist from West Texas, Jason White, 37, visited a Busboys and Poets restaurant in Washington when visiting for Trumps inauguration. In an interview with the Washington Post, White said he knew he stuck out in a place where African-American art covered the walls.

However, the waitress Rosalynd Harris, 25, arrived at work in cheery mood and chatted warmly to White and his friends.

When the men finished their meals White left Harris the enormous tip along with a personal message on the bill which was only $72.60. Then, after he wrote it, he left a $450 tip on their $72.60 bill, which is a nearly 625% tip.

The bill, posted to the restaurant's Twitter page, read: We may come from different cultures and may disagree on certain issues, but if everyone would share their smile and kindness like your beautiful smile, our country will come together as one people. Not race. Not gender. Just American.

Many people have been commending his act of kindness.
Christopher McNamara, aged 24, of Good Shepherd Villas, Pennywell Rd, Limerick had pleaded not guilty to the murder of James Boyce, aged 71, at St Munchins St, St Marys Park in Limerick between March 6, 2011, and March 7, 2011.

The two-week trial heard McNamara had confessed to the killing of Mr Boyce to his mother. McNamara would tend to the property of the 71-year-old, lighting his fire and assisting in domestic needs.

The defence had asked the jury to find his client not guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter.

The Central Criminal Court jury found McNamara unanimously guilty of murder. He was given the mandatory life sentence by Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan on January 24, 2014.

Opening an appeal against conviction yesterday, McNamaras barrister, Michael Bowman, submitted to the three-judge court that there was more for the jury to consider than kill or cause serious harm or whether it was murder or not.

Mr Bowman said the jury should have been fully informed of the options they had to consider including complex concepts such as recklessness, subjectivity, and capacity to form intent.

It was not black and white and not either or, Mr Bowman said. He said the medical evidence confirmed the unpredictability of the injuries.

The court heard that Mr Boyce had been the victim of an assault with a long striking edge and that the fatal injuries were those on his neck where multiple fractures of the larynx were found. If there was any grey area, the grey area falls to be resolved in favour of the accused, Mr Bowman said.

Counsel for the DPP, Micheal P OHiggins said the jury were very carefully instructed by the trial judge on the ingredients for murder, particularly the mental element.

Mr Justice George Birmingham, who sat with Mr Justice Alan Mahon and Mr Justice John Edwards, reserved judgment.
Basking sharks are among the biggest fish in the North Atlantic and are the second-biggest fish in the world, after the whale shark.

Once hunted by communities along the west coast for their liver oil, they are no longer fished commercially. However, some are removed from the seas accidentally, as bycatch. Habitat destruction is also a threat.
Social Protection Minister Leo Varadkar, Housing Minister Simon Coveney, and Health Minister Simon Harris all rejected the suggestion of sharing power with Sinn Fein just 24 hours after Mr Kenny opened the door to the coalition.

However, Tanaiste Frances Fitzgerald appeared to back Mr Kennys position last night by also failing to rule out a deal, saying people ultimately decide who forms a government and that politicians have to work with the results.

During his monthly briefing with political reporters on Thursday, Mr Kenny made the surprise decision to leave the door open for a coalition with Sinn Fein.

Responding to similar remarks from Sinn Fein deputy leader Mary Lou McDonald, Mr Kenny declined to rule out a Fine Gael-Sinn Fein government, saying: I said I wouldnt do business with Fianna Fail so, depending on the result you gave as a member of the electorate, politicians have to work with the result. Sinn Fein seem to be converted now to a position of changing their stance.

Mr Kennys comments  which he repeated three times  are in marked contrast to his previous view of Sinn Fein, leading to speculation an unlikely coalition could happen after the next election.

However, in separate statements to the Irish Examiner Mr Coveney and Mr Harris followed comments from Mr Varadkar on Thursday by directly contradicting the Taoiseach.

Speaking after Mr Varadkar said: I wouldnt seek a mandate for it as it wouldnt be possible, Mr Coveney said I dont think the two parties are compatible.

Mr Harris said: I am not in favour of a coalition with Sinn Fein.

However, Ms Fitzgerald failed to rule out the suggestion, saying while it poses difficulties the reality is politicians have to work with the results.

FG media advisers last night attempted to limit the damage caused by Mr Kennys comments by sending an email to TDs and senators warning them to play down the potential move as not something that arises.

However backbench TDs Alan Farrell, Fergus ODowd, Colm Brophy and Peter Burkes decision to ridicule the potential plan has sparked fresh questions within Fine Gael about Mr Kennys leadership.

In addition to the impact on Fine Gael, the coalition claims are also likely to affect the future leadership race within Sinn Fein.

Despite initially putting forward the idea on Wednesday evening, deputy leader Mary Lou McDonald dismissed the issue as silly season.
The investigation was revealed in the High Court on Thursday where two women are challenging the departments decision not to include them in the redress scheme.

The ombudsman, Peter Tyndall, notified the department of its intention to launch an investigation on December 20.

The Irish Examiner understands the investigation will consider whether the application process operated in an open and fair manner and whether the department relied on information that was irrelevant and/or incomplete, when deciding on a persons eligibility under the scheme.

The probe will also look at how the department sourced, gathered, and evaluated information on the Magdalene laundries and other institutions covered under the redress scheme.

In a statement, the ombudsman said it had received 30 complaints from applicants to the redress scheme and that, following its intervention, the department reversed its decision to refuse redress in four of the cases.

The investigation will cover the issues raised in nine of the complaints the ombudsman has received from women who were excluded from the scheme together with an investigation into the administration of the scheme generally, read the statement.

The ombudsman said it is not possible to say how long the investigation will take but that it envisages it being concluded in a matter of months.

The ombudsman can make findings and recommendations as part of his investigation. Recommendations are not binding on public bodies.

However, in almost every case the ombudsmans recommendation is implemented. The ombudsman will make public the outcome of the investigation at its conclusion, read the statement.

Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald is now facing calls to explain why she had not publicly revealed details of the investigation.

Its clear that the department is not behaving in a transparent manner in relation to this investigation, said Fianna Fail equality spokeswoman Fiona OLoughlin.

The Justice For Magdalenes Research body, long-time critics of how the scheme had been administered, said the Department of Justice needs to write to all women who had been refused admission to the redress scheme to inform them of the investigation.
John Caulfield, from Kilknockan, Adare, Co Limerick, appeared before Limerick District Court yesterday afternoon.

He was charged in connection with the seizure of around 200 cannabis plants, at a premises in Adare, last Wednesday.

Garda Mairead Hayes of the Limerick Divisional Drugs Unit, told the court she arrested the accused at 11.55pm at Henry Street Garda Station on Thursday, January 26, and charged him with three offences under the Misuse of Drugs Act, including cultivating cannabis without a licence; possession of cannabis for sale or supply; and possessing cannabis.

Garda Hayes said that after charging Mr Caulfield at Henry Street Garda Station, with cultivating cannabis plants without a licence, contrary to Section 17 of the Misuse of Drugs Act, he replied: I wasnt growing them; theyre not my property.

The court heard Mr Caulfield replied to a charge of possessing cannabis, contrary to Section 3 of the Offences Against the State Act: The stuff was not my property, he was renting off me.

Garda Hayes told the court Mr Caulfield did not reply to a third charge of possessing cannabis for sale or supply, contrary to Section 15 of the Misuse of Drugs Act.

Gardai did not object to bail.

Mr Caulfield agreed to a number of bail conditions, including that he surrender his passport, and sign on between 9am and 9pm, three times a week, at Henry Street Garda Station.

The accused  who was accompanied in court by family members  was remanded on bail on his own bond of 300, to appear before the court in February, for directions from the DPP.

A 56-year-old man from West Limerick, who was also arrested at the scene of the seizure of cannabis plants last Wednesday, remains in garda custody at Henry Street Garda Station under Section 2 of the Criminal Justice (Drug Trafficking) Act, 1996.
He also called for Irish farmers to develop new markets to counter the negative impact of the British exit from the EU.

Mr Hogan was speaking ahead of British prime minister Theresa Mays expected visit to Dublin next week, during which she will discuss the impact of Brexit with Taoiseach Enda Kenny.

Speaking at a conference in Dublin, yesterday, Mr Hogan said we have no certainty as to what the impact will be on Irish farmers.

All we can say, with any certainty, is that, as things stand, we cannot say anything with any certainty, he said.

It is, therefore, imperative that the Irish Government, the Irish agri-food community, and other trading sectors of the economy prepare for a full spectrum of possibilities, Mr Hogan said.

The Brexit referendum, and the presidential election in the US, have impacted on the international trading environment, not least for countries like Ireland, Mr Hogan said.

Brexit, in particular, has sharpened the minds of exporting farmers and agri-businesses in this country. You are all familiar with the statistics in relation to Irish agri-trade to the UK, so I wont repeat them, he added.

He said Ireland will be negotiating from a position of strength within the EU bloc of 27 countries.

If the UK leaves the Customs Union, then there will need to be customs procedures for goods entering the single market. That said, we will certainly look for technical solutions to ensure that any such checks are as efficient, and swiftly, administered as possible, he said.

Despite the inevitable challenges, it should not be forgotten that, as Ireland remains a member of the European Union, it remains part of the most powerful and influential trading bloc in the world  we are, therefore, approaching the trade issue from a position of strength, he added.

One of the key elements of Mr Hogans speech was that Ireland must look to other markets, such as Canada and Japan, to buttress the country from Brexit.

If we take the most recent example, the CETA agreement between Canada and the EU, the positives are crystal clear. CETA is the most ambitious trade agreement on agriculture ever adopted by the EU. It will result in the opening of the Canadian market for key EU exports such as dairy, he added.

We hope to conclude negotiations with Japan soon. This is a very important negotiation for the EU, as regards agriculture, and my particular focus is on beef and veal.

As you know, Japan reopened its beef market in 2013, with eight EU member states authorised to date, including Ireland, Mr Hogan added.

Meanwhile, in Britain, Jo Stevens has quit as Jeremy Corbyns shadow Welsh secretary, after Corbyn forced Labour MPs to back the Article 50 bill.

The Cardiff Central MP said she believed that Brexit was a terrible mistake and cannot reconcile my overwhelming view that to endorse the bill would make it inevitable.

She is the first member of the shadow cabinet to quit over the issue.

On Thursday, Tulip Siddiq quit as shadow early-years minister, after the Labour leadership imposed a three-line whip.

This week, Theresa May became the first foreign leader to meet new US President, Donald Trump.

Ms May met Mr Trump at the White House, after laying a wreath at Arlington cemetery.

Focusing on a post-Brexit foreign policy, she urged Britain and the US to stand united and lead the world together, confronting new challenges, such as a resurgent Russia, rising Asian economies, and the so-called Islamic State.
Counsel for Mr FitzPatrick, aged 68, described as an outrage a decision by Kevin OConnell, an investigator with the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement (ODCE), not to ask witnesses certain questions because they might undermine his case.

Mr FitzPatrick is accused of failing to disclose multi-million euro loans to auditors. The prosecution alleges that the amount of the loans was artificially reduced for a period of two weeks around the banks financial end-of-year statement by short-term loans from other sources, including Irish Nationwide Building Society.

On day 70 of the trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, Bernard Condon, defending, continued his cross-examination of Mr OConnell, a legal adviser with the ODCE who dealt with witnesses from EY (formerly Ernst & Young), Anglos auditors from 2002 to 2008.

He put it to Mr OConnell that in April 2010 he had gone into his first meeting with key witnesses from EY with an acceptance that they had not known about the movement of loans to Irish Nationwide.

Mr OConnell replied: I see it suggests a degree of prejudgement but added that there was nothing in the evidence he had so far received that the loans had been disclosed to the auditors.

Mr Condon said that if the loans had been made known to EY we wouldnt be here in court.

That is an absolutely colossal piece of prejudice. That was wrong to do, he said. Mr OConnell said he agreed adding: It was a very inexperienced way of approaching the matter.

Counsel described as an outrage the failure of investigators to ask witnesses about auditing standards which suggested auditors remind directors that it was a criminal offence to mislead auditors.

You were charged with carrying out a fair and impartial investigation, counsel said, accusing Mr OConnell of deliberately deciding not to ask about these standards.

Mr OConnell agreed it was a very serious mistake adding: I very much regret that this was not something that was addressed within the full engagement with EY. I dont in any way seek to stand over that decision.

We were seeking to build the case. We did not at this early stage want to start setting out the weaknesses in the case.

Mr Condon suggested asking certain questions would hurt your case.

If they were to say something about this, it would undermine your ability to bring a prosecution at all. I think that is so, counsel said.

Mr FitzPatrick of Whitshed Road, Greystones, Co Wicklow has pleaded not guilty to 27 offences under the 1990 Companies Act.

The trial continues before on Monday.
Central Statistics Office numbers show an increase of 10.9% in overseas visits to Ireland for 2016 compared to 2015. A record-breaking 9.5m tourists visited Ireland over a 12-month period.

A quarterly survey by the Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA) released on the opening day of the Holiday World Show in Dublin showed 65% of travel agents found Spain was their most popular destination last year, followed by Portugal and the US.

This year, the status quo remains with Spain and Portugal as top choice. However, some travel agents predicted a surge of interest in Russia and South Africa which may become their top sellers.

The survey found 95% of Irish travel agents enjoyed an increase in their turnover in 2016 compared to 2015.

A similar number are optimistic for an increase in turnover in 2017, with business likely to be up on average13%.

The industry has also increased its workforce over the last year, with 40% of travel agencies reporting an average growth of 17% in staff numbers.

ITAA president Cormac Meehan said the findings confirmed the sectors continued upward trend.

Our hope is that next year, all Irish travel agents will be in a position to report an increase on their yearly turnover.

This would be a fantastic result for an industry which has adapted and embraced huge changes over the last number of years.

Meanwhile, CSO figures on inbound tourism found visits from mainland Europe grew by 8.5% in 2016 to 3,302,100 while visitors from North America increased by 19.4% to 1.8 million.

The UK, however, remains the key market. The numbers visiting from Britain were up by 10.6% to 3.9m while those coming from the rest of the world  mostly long-haul and developing markets  totalled 550,200, an increase of 2.2%.

CEO of Tourism Ireland Niall Gibbons said Brexit was one of the main challenges facing the industry in 2017.

Since the EU referendum, Tourism Ireland has been monitoring developments closely, to better understand and plan for the implications of Brexit.

Tourism Ireland believes the adverse impact of Brexit can be mitigated through a combination of aggressive overseas marketing and the continuation of existing successful wider policy initiatives, he said.

The Holiday World Show at RDS Simmonscourt in Dublin continues until tomorrow.
Stephen Cusack, professor of emergency medicine at University College Cork and consultant in emergency medicine at Cork University Hospital, welcomed the news yesterday as he watched the services first aircraft touch down in Cork City.

But he said Ireland could do with up to five such aircraft in a helicopter emergency medical service (HEMS).

Ive been looking for this type of service for about 20 years, Prof Cusack said.

Wales has four of these helicopters in its HEMS service  in a country a third the size of Ireland. So, Ireland could probably do with four or five.

Were a big rural area, with a large hinterland, and a lot of places that are difficult to get to by road.

There is no doubt that this service will reduce times getting to ill and severely injured people.

The trick will be in the tasking, and for that, we are really dependent on the National Ambulance Service to buy into this full-time and to help us in any way they can.There is no threat or competition to anybody from this service.

The announcement was made yesterday as the fully-equipped Eurocopter 135 helicopter visited Cape Clear, West Cork, and Cork City, as part of its whirlwind promotional tour of Munster.

The aircraft, crewed by a pilot, a paramedic, and consultant in emergency medicine, will be based at Cork Airport.

It can be in West Cork in less than 20 minutes, in Wexford in 29 minutes, in Limerick in 17 minutes, and in Dingle in 31 minutes.

The Irish Community Air Ambulance (ICAA) service, a major expansion of the Irish Community Rapid Response (ICRR) initiative established in West Cork in 2009, is co-ordinating the service.

ICRR founder and ICAA spokesman John Kearney said the flying doctor service will enhance their existing ground-based service to serve a population of some 1m people across Munster and beyond.

ICAA needs to raise 1m to get the service in the air, and up to 2m a year to keep it going. Mr Kearney said the response to the fundraising initiative has been phenomenal. This is not my helicopter  this is a community helicopter, he said.

The service will complement existing emergency services and the Athlone-based Emergency Aeromedical Service operated by the National Ambulance Service in partnership with the Irish Air Corps.
Mark wants to make good on his betrayal of his friends; Sickboy wants to open a brothel; Spud is desperate to escape his desperately lonely life; and Begbie, in prison, still harbours a murderous hatred.

Adapted by John Hodge from Irvine Welshs novel Porno, and directed by Danny Boyle, T2 is decidedly more ambitious than most sequels aspire to.

On one level its a straightforward caper, as Mark and Sickboy join forces to scam the powers-that-be out of enough cash to get their brothel up and running, all the while terrified that Begbie, having escaped from prison, will finally track down Mark, and theres plenty of black humour to be mined from the ham-fisted efforts of these most hapless of wannabe criminals.

More interesting, however, is the storys commentary on our obsession with nostalgia, as Danny Boyle inserts slivers of footage from the original film to contrast that storys audacious energy and raw charm with the more cynical, worldly-wise characters of T2.

Were tourists in our own youth, Sickboy tells Mark (and by extension the audience), but thats not necessarily a bad thing: as the older (and a tiny bit wiser) Spud (in a show-stealing turn from Ewen Bremner) reminisces about the characters younger selves, he begins writing the stories that will become the original Trainspotting novel.

You dont catch lightning in a bottle twice, and T2: Trainspotting lacks the originals ground-breaking quality; that said, its hugely enjoyable, and a more thought-provoking film than might have resulted had they simply tried to repeat the trick.

Hacksaw Ridge (16s) tells the story of Desmond Doss (Andrew Garfield), who volunteered as a US Army medic during WWII despite being a conscientious objector.

Derided as a coward during basic training, Desmond is hounded by Sgt Howell (Vince Vaughn) and persecuted by his peers; determined to do his patriotic duty, however, Desmond finally earns the right to run into the hellfire of war without a single weapon to protect him.

That hellfire finally arrives on Hacksaw Ridge on the island of Okinawa, when Desmond delivers a sustained act of jaw-droppingly selfless courage that would be written off as the worst of Hollywood hokum if it werent based on a true story.

Written by Robert Schenkkan and Andrew Knight, and directed by Mel Gibson, Hacksaw Ridge is a powerful tale in many respects.

Desmond Dosss story makes for a highly unusual war film, offering as it does compelling contrary arguments for refusing to kill and also the necessity, in war, of doing so, and Andrew Garfield is in superb form as the avuncular backwoods boy sustained by a simple religious faith as he goes into battle, first with the US Army for the right to serve his country, and then against the Japanese who defend their homeland with ferocious savagery.

Its also a film that has its cake and devours it: Desmonds conscience is such that he cannot allow himself to so much as handle a weapon, let alone fire it, but Mel Gibsons depiction of the brutal battle scenes on Okinawa is so vividly rendered that they outstrip the intensity of Saving Private Ryan.

The climax might have been better served by unadorned fact than the religious imagery Gibson layers on, but otherwise Hacksaw Ridge is an extraordinarily affecting war movie.

Sing (G) opens with down-on-his-luck koala bear impresario Buster Moon (voiced by Matthew McConaughey) attempting to save his theatre by launching a talent competition, a modest ambition that quickly spirals out of control and into the realms of enjoyable farce as a motley crew of animals including Rosita (Reese Witherspoon), Ash (Scarlett Johansson), Mike (Seth McFarlane) and Eddie (John C Reilly) compete for the huge cash prize Buster accidentally advertises.

Written by Garth Jennings, who co-directs with Christophe Lourdelet, Sing is from the same studio responsible for last years The Secret Life of Pets, and offers a similar blend of brash humour, slapstick, and punchlines derived from animals aping human characteristics.

The story may well be a rip-off a number of Muppet Show plot-lines (and the makers duly acknowledge the debt with a neat in-joke), but the A-list cast has terrific fun with their characters, particularly during the early audition stages, with Matthew McConaughey stealing the show as the deludedly optimistic koala.

All told, its an animated tale a perfectly pitched at the younger audience and packed with X-factor fun.
It has been a whirlwind of a week for Ellie Kisyombe; she is tired and emotionally drained, not that you would ever guess from listening to her.

She radiates positive energy, raucous bursts of laughter regularly punctuating our chat. Kisyombe is at the start of a three-month internship at Ballymaloe Cookery School in Co Cork  she will write a column about her experiences, beginning next week in Weekend  and still cant quite believe she is actually there.

I am walking around Ballymaloe asking myself Is this real? For the first week, I couldnt sleep for three or four nights, she says.

A native of Malawi, Kisyombe is seeking asylum in Ireland and has been in the direct provision system for almost seven years.

I have been asked many times why I left. East, west, north, south  home is the best but when that home has become the mouth of a shark, then you are forced to leave without even thinking of your next destination, she says.

I had to leave because of my activism, Im afraid I cant explain much as my case is still ongoing. I wanted to live in a place where I could be safe and happy watching my kids grow without fear of what would happen next.

While Kisyombe was grateful to find safety in Ireland, the uncertainty of life in direct provision and lack of control took its toll.

Dont get me wrong, I was glad to have a place to sleep and food to eat. But for five-and-a-half years, I lived in different hostels, in one room with three other people, not allowed to work or even further my education. It was like living in an open prison, I went into a total depression. As a way of coping, I started campaigning for an end to direct provision.

Kisyombe began volunteering with the Irish Refugee Council, seeking changes such as allowing those in direct provision to prepare and cook their own food. Through this activism, she came to the attention of chef and food writer Darina Allen, who offered her an internship at Ballymaloe Cookery School.

Kisyombe started at the same time as the intake of students undertaking the prestigious certificate course at Ballymaloe, and while the long hours and heavy workload are an adjustment for all, it is fair to say that for Kisyombe, the culture shock is even more intense.

It is hard to express it. I have shifted from my world, surrounded by people from social justice who know me very well I am coming out from that shell into another world. Darina is very supportive and just wants to make sure I am fitting in. I cannot put into words how well I have been treated. It makes me feel like I am a normal human being and that makes me emotional.

Kisyombes journey to Ballymaloe began with her involvement in the Our Table project, initiated by cafe owner and Irish Examiner food columnist Michelle Darmody.

Food is so much part of my life and I find it really upsetting that people in direct provision are not allowed to cook. People can be in direct provision for up to ten years. That is someones childhood gone without ever having a parent cook a meal for them, says Darmody.

She met Kisyombe after approaching the Irish Refugee Council to offer her help. They introduced me to a group of people, one of whom was Ellie; we really clicked. I just bought a big pile of ingredients, organised a kitchen and we all cooked and chatted. We did that about seven or eight times, then we decided to do a two-day pop-up event in the Project Arts Centre in Temple Bar. We had about 300 people each day coming through, people from direct provision themselves and members of the public who wanted to show solidarity. It was a really nice, heartwarming few days.

The Our Table project is ongoing and an extended three-month pop-up finished just before Christmas.

It will definitely continue in some form, says Darmody. We are regrouping and thinking about a permanent premises. We would like to look at diversifying a little bit.

Like Darmody, Darina Allen has also spoken out about the lack of cooking facilities for asylum seekers in direct provision and was delighted to offer Ellie an internship at Ballymaloe when contacted about doing something to help.

I so admire what Michelle and everyone else is doing with Our Table and I was absolutely delighted to be able to make a small contribution. While Ellie is learning, we will also learn a lot from her as well, and from her attitude. I want her to talk to the students and tell them about direct provision and we will also do a food event with her to raise awareness of the situation.

I cannot understand why people in direct provision are not allowed to cook, or for that matter, to grow. There is land around many of these centres and it would be such a comfort to those living there to be able to sow seeds and grow produce.

Allen acknowledges the situation is far from straightforward but believes people who want to help are being stymied by bureaucracy.

All I know is the deep frustration around the country of people who are desperate to help and cant seem to be able to. I was at a meeting before Christmas and people were quite vocal about how frustrated they were having offered help and there being no proper follow-up. Obviously there are security issues but it would be lovely if we could work together so that the asylum seekers could feel the goodwill of the people. There are lots of little ways to make it easier for them.

"We cant speed up the process, that is for the Government, but just to make life more bearable. In the meantime, the goodwill out there is being squandered because it doesnt seem like the dots are being connected adequately.

Darmody says the Our Table project has been successful in starting a conversation around food preparation in direct provision but that those involved would like to see the entire system come to an end.

While initially one of its biggest remits was to raise awareness of the system around direct provision, calling for an end to the system is definitely our priority, she says. There are signs that things may be changing. Darmody says residents of the direct provision centre in Mosney, Co Meath, recently received letters saying there will be cooking facilities and food on site from the end of January.

We are waiting to see how that pans out, she says. I cant claim that is directly to do with us but a few of the residents I have been talking to were thanking us for the pressure we have been putting on and felt it has definitely pushed things along. Kisyombe now lives in a direct provision centre in Dublin with her son and daughter, who are being cared for by her cousin and sister while she is in Ballymaloe. As an asylum seeker, she is unable to work and had to get special permission to take up the intern opportunity in Ballymaloe.

Its such a simple thing, to be able to work, says Darmody. Ellie is such a capable person and to be unable to work for seven years is crazy. She has had to make an effort to keep herself busy, volunteering with the Irish Refugee Council and different NGOs. Darmody is awestruck by her friends determination.

Ellies energy astounds me. She is exceptional in how she has dealt with her situation. She has always been very vocal and has become a beacon to others in direct provision who may be afraid to speak out. It is very nerve-wracking for people to do that when their cases are still in the courts system. To stand up and say I am grateful to be in this country and I really want to be here but I just dont think this is right is a very brave thing to do.

For Kisyombe, the friendship of people like Darmody has made an immeasurable difference to her situation.

We just clicked, she is like a sister from another mother, she says. When you have a good heart, God always sends you good people into your life.

Meanwhile, Kisyombe still waits for her case to be decided. Yet her optimism remains undimmed. You cannot tell, it could be tomorrow. There is nothing you can do except keep hoping. I am lucky to meet the right people and get these opportunities. I am getting a second chance in life, despite my situation.

As for the future, Kisyombe hopes to continue her work in community development.

My hope is to get my papers and to carry on what Im doing, helping others. I want to give other people hope.

Ellies column begins next week.
Spit hurling, screaming obscenities and wearing an alternative forehead can be very liberating. And now easier than ever.

Especially since Ryanair has announced a route to Luxembourg and flights into the 23rd century.

The airline has always been a popular way of searching out new civilizations and interesting mutant life forms. As well as helping you become fluent in alien languages.

Becoming moderately proficient in the first tongue of the Planet Qonos requires diligence and a large and murderous Sword of Honour ( batleth). And a penchant for the black look.

A third lung and extra kidneys would help.

Pronouncing the capital letters in the middle of words is difficult. You have to study hard and duck a lot if you want to be fluent in Klingon.

It is one of the most aggressive languages in the universe. One slip of the tongue could mean instant death.

A Belgian architect living in Germany now offers Klingon survival skills and Europes first and so far only residential Klingon language courses.

The qepHoms (gatherings) take place in Saarbrucken, near the French border. The Grand Duchys Findel airport is the nearest Starfleet port.

Lieven L. Litaer is a lifelong Trekkie and, although no Klingons feature, the latest film, Star Trek: Beyond and the recent fiftieth anniversary of the franchise (the first episode was aired on September 8 1966) has brought more latent Klingons out of the closet to hone their interplanetary oral skills and learn street Klingon at his unique two and three-day workshops.

The courses include lectures on Klingon history, geography and culture, cooking (Gagh worms with blood wine) as well useful phrases (nuqDaqoHpuchpe- Where is the bathroom?) and tips on mating rituals. Basically a laymans guide to seductive growling.

Herr Litaer explains: When a man is not interested, he says bIrchoH choH SuvwI - The blood of the warrior is cold. If the lady is not attracted to the man she says  DaH jIbwIj Visay NismoH - I must wash my hair.

Thirty-six-year-old Litaer (Klingon name Quvar valer ) trained at the Klingon Language Institute in Flourtown, Pennsylvania which opened in 1992. The KLI used to publish Klingon fiction and poetry.

As well as helping produce the first Klingon version of Monopoly and first Klingon opera, it has also been involved in translating Shakespeare, the Bible and the Tao Te Ching into Klingon. Sadly, its seminal Pictorial Guide To The Verbal Suffixes of tlhIngan (Klingon) has been remaindered.

Every year, the Institute hosts a five-day conference, awarding an out-of-this-world scholarships to linguistics graduates or undergraduates. The Institutes motto is qomey poSmoH Hol ( Language opens worlds).

Europes most eminent Klingonist is about to publish an English Beginners Klingon textbook. Europes only certified Klingon Grammarian and teacher (ghoymoHwl) also has his own YouTube channel.

It was invented in Star Trek III: The Search for Spock. James Scotty Doohan improvised some of the languages first words.

According to the best-selling Klingon dictionary - first published in 1985 - there are now over 3000 words in the Klingon language.

You can buy teach yourself elementary everyday conversational Klingon audio tapes with toasts for all intergalactic occasions and general advice on how best to avoid embarrassing yourself in front of a roomful of Klingon Imperial Army members and risk being zapped by a death sting disruptor rifle, fed into a mind shifter or, worse still, fed to a Targ.

A few years back, I enrolled in a Star Trek Philosophy class in Manchester. The Connecticut one.

Along with the usual mind-stretching, self-improvement classes to be found on any east coast America evening school curriculum - An Introduction to Blacksmithing, How To Talk To Practically Anyone , Support for Reluctant Goal-Setters, Herbs for Womens Wellness , Yikes! Motherhood! and Yikes! Cronehood! - you could once major in  The Cultural Importance of Star Trek - A Blast Into New Learning!

The lecturer, a Mr Mills, a local graphic designer and founder of the Central Connecticut Star Trek Support Group, rejected as hackneyed the notion that Star Trek is a domain for geeks and hippies who have taken one too many phaser hits to the head.

In his absorbing lecture he made out a case that the long-running science fiction saga provides a meaningful philosophy to live by.

For its fans, one of the reasons Star Trek has survived so long is the continued relevance of its socio-political messages.

Each episode and each film is a clearly articulated morality tale. Star Trek provides a wealth of commentary on the human adventure. Its not about the escapist interplanetary travels of a warp-drive spaceship.

Its all about becoming and being all we can. It invented cultural sensitivity. And reinforces it. Continually.

Apparently, I learnt at the Manchester Community College, Treks ethos is liberal-progressive. Its wedded to the notion of diversity. Its anti-greed and capitalism. And environmentalist. One of its major tenets is infinite diversity in infinite combinations, the Vulcan philosophy of IDIC.

Trek, Trekkers believe, is a thought-provoking and revelatory work of modern art. An inspirational opus. Trekkers are different from Trekkies.

Who are, according to Trekker definitions, people who dont date because they are too busy memorizing star dates , fine-tuning their diagnostics and perfecting impressions of Photon Torpedoes or the door to sickbay opening and closing.

They know which episodes the Vulcan Death Pinch (The Enemy Within) , The Vulcan Hand Salute (Amok Time) and Vulcan Mind-Meld (The Dagger of Mind) first appeared.

To a Trekker, apparently, a Trekkie has a negative groupie connotation of the seriously wacko/weirdo get-a-life kind. True Trekkers are into a serious evaluation of the shows subtext.

And message. And educational value.

They understand what it is saying. Trek is definitely not mindless entertainment.

Essentially Treks modern mythology, Mills began his lecture (I still have my notes), Its universe is as valid as Tolkiens.

Its a show that hits us where we live. To the perceptive, Trek advocates a pluralist society.

The Enterprise is a metaphor for an ideal nation or united earth. Trek teaches you to relish the difference, I remember Mr Mills saying.

He brought to our attention the fact that the first inter-racial kiss on Platos Stepchildren was banned from some southern US TV stations. Roddenberry, a decorated World War II bomber pilot and police officer, died in 1991.

According to my Pitman:  He saw an Earth where differences are sources of construction not destruction.

In Gs universe humans overcome their sense of cultural and religious supremacy.

The Roddenberry vision will live long and prosper. If you are worried about the future, study the future. It was heavy stuff.

There is apparently a space cadet in each of us waiting to beam down. Klingon is spoken worldwide. Its not just turning heads in Saarbruckens Ludwigsplatz and St Johanner Market.

And the Grand Duchys Neumunster Cathedral. Linguistics experts says its a cross between Yiddish and ancient Babylonian with a few lochs and Bachs thrown in.

Consisting primarily of throat-scraping and retching noises, sentences are constructed purely by attempting to hum and gargle simultaneously.

The most common words are swearwords and unflattering compliments like Quyah!,  baQa! and PetaQ. Which basically mean Berk! Klingons dont believe in social niceties.

They dont have a word for Hello. Their greeting is a peremptory,NuQneh? or,  What do you want?

Baring his teeth menacingly, Lievar opens his lessons with ylghojrup!ylqIm!ylbuS!yItIv! (Get ready to learn! Pay attention! Concentrate! Enjoy!

The spittle flies.

The courses are open to aliens as well as ugly bags mostly full of water (earthlings).

They only cost 15. Plus a voluntary donation. Students (ghojwl) stay in the local youth hostel (137 for three nights sharing with the sworn enemies of The Federation.

A very useful phrase from the green planet is Hab SoSll Quch! (Your mother has a smooth forehead). The apostrophe is silent.

For further information about the Klingonischkurs www.qephom.de/ info@qephom.de

Ryanair.com began London Stansted-Luxembourg flights in October. Seats start at 19.99.
One of West Corks most attractive villages, Union Hall, is known for its busy fishing port activity, sailing, selection of bars, cafes and seafood, proximity to beaches, hidden coves and glorious Glandore, yet is nicely off the beaten track of the main N71 running between Clonakilty and Skibbereen.

All of those attractions underpinned the launch of the Pairc na Fana scheme of 44 upmarket homes, across nine acres, back in spring 2007 just before the market took a dive.

Back then, there were eight house types and prices ranged from 375,000 for a two-bed townhouse to 680,000 for a 1,900 sq ft detached, with lots of other options in the mid 400,000s.

Many were bought as second/holiday homes and with retirement possibly in mind: a number have been rented in the interim.

The development by Castle Developments has been well-maintained and landscaping has been maturing nicely all along too. Theres talks of some remaining new-builds to come too, as confidence and prices show recovery signs.

Now, one of those other, original designs, a single storey 1,500 sq ft bungalow, No 22, is up for sale, guiding 330,000 via agent Micheal Duggan of Sherry FitzGerald ONeill in Skib, and its of a size and layout that will suit equally as a full time home as for holiday usage.

Its layout, in two linked sections, sees all four bedrooms and fully tiled main bathroom to one side, two of them with en suites, and the other half is home to a 23 by 14 L-shaped kitchen/diner with white gloss units, utility, and a 17 by 12 sitting room, with solid fuel stove.

Theres a good-sized site with No 22, with lawns, mature boundaries and parking, and the village is a short downhill walk away.

VERDICT: Just over an hour from Cork city by car, Union Hall has its own special cachet

Union Hall, West Cork

330,000

Size: 140 sqm (1,500 sq ft)

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 3

BER: C1

Best Feature: Tidy scheme
The signs of break-in was found early on Saturday morning.
Violeta Lagunes was perplexed by a series of strange messages that appeared in her Gmail inbox.

It was election day in May 2014 to choose the leadership of Mexicos right-wing Partido Accion Nacional, or PAN, and Lagunes, a former federal congresswoman, was holding a strategy meeting in her office in Puebla City.

The emails seemed harmless, at least at first. One appeared to come from the account of a trusted colleague. It asked her to download and review a document.

Lagunes clicked on the link, but it seemed to be broken, so she wrote back to her colleague and asked him to send it again. Elsewhere in her inbox was an email from Google warning her that someone had tried to log in to her account.

Meanwhile, she began to receive phone calls from PAN allies, who claimed that they had received emails from Laguness account that she did not remember sending.

Now Lagunes was worried. Around 1 oclock, she called the colleague who appeared to have emailed her. She reached him at a restaurant, where he was finishing lunch with other campaign allies.

I did not send you an email, he insisted.

A consultant with the campaign  who asked to remain anonymous in order to preserve his relationships with other candidates  overheard the conversation. He knew of other campaign workers who had been receiving similar messages: Emails with vague subject lines, asking the recipient to review a document or click a link. The campaign, he realized, had been hacked.

In the vote for party leader, Lagunes and her allies in Puebla  a two-hour drive southeast from Mexico City  were supporting the challenger, a senator who promised to return the party to its conservative roots.

But the incumbent was backed by Pueblas powerful governor, Rafael Moreno Valle. Since winning the governorship in 2010, Moreno Valles opponents say, his ambitions have grown, and he has resorted to increasingly harsh measures to keep Puebla state  including members of his own party  under control.

After Laguness call on election day, her colleagues rushed from the restaurant back to their local headquarters. All morning, they had been trying to reach their field network, a group of 40 Cordero canvassers who were working to get out the vote in Puebla state.

But the field network seemed to have gone dark. Few of the canvassers were even answering their phones. Hackers, the team concluded, must have found the list of the canvassers names and phone numbers  widely circulated by email within the campaign  and begun to intimidate them.

The day before, the consultant told me, the field network was motivated and eager to do this work. After the hack, it was very hard to reach them. The few who did answer said that they had received phone calls saying that their lives were at stake. They were worried that if they went out, they or their families would get hurt.

Madero won the election, with 57% of the 162,792 votes cast over all. In Puebla, his margin was substantially larger, roughly 74%. Corderos team decided not to contest the result. They had suspicions about how they were hacked. But it would be another year before any evidence emerged.

Their political enemies, leaked documents seemed to show, had built a spying operation using software made by an Italian firm called Hacking Team  just one of many private companies that, largely below public notice, have sprung up to aid governments in surveillance of the private lives of individual citizens. The industry claims that its products comply with local laws and are used to fight crime and terror.

But in many countries, these tools have proved to be equally adept at political espionage.

Hacking Team has fewer than 50 employees, but it has customers all over the world. According to internal documents, its espionage tool, which is called the Remote Control System, or RCS, can be licensed for as little as $200,000 (187,000) a year  well within the budget of a provincial strongman.

After it has been surreptitiously installed on a targets computer or phone, the Remote Control System can invisibly eavesdrop on everything: Text messages, emails, phone and Skype calls, location data and so on. Whereas the US National Security Agencys best-known programmes grab data in transit from switching rooms and undersea cables, the RCS acquires it at the source, right off a targets device, before it can be encrypted. It carries out an invisible, digitised equivalent of a Watergate-style break-in.

The US government is almost certainly the worlds most formidable repository of hacking talent, but its most powerful cyberweapons are generally reserved for intelligence agencies and the military.

This might explain why, according to company documents, at least two federal law-enforcement agencies have been Hacking Team clients: The FBI, beginning in 2011, and the US Drug Enforcement Administration, beginning in 2012. The FBI contract paid Hacking Team more than $700,000; the DEA appears to have used the software to go after targets in Colombia.

Documents show the company has also sold its software to some of the worlds most repressive governments. Some, like those of Honduras, Ethiopia, Bahrain, Morocco, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia, are Western allies. Others, like Uzbekistan and Turkey, have a more troubled relationship.

A few are openly hostile to the West. Between 2012 and 2014, Hacking Team was paid nearly 1m by the government of Sudan, a United States-designated state sponsor of terrorism. Even more notable, in light of recent events, is the three-year relationship that Hacking Team carried on with the FSB, one of Russias main intelligence agencies.

Hacking Team claims it draws the line at customers who commit gross human-rights abuses and that it sells exclusively to governments operating within the laws of their own countries. In at least one case, David Vincenzetti, Hacking Teams founder and chief executive, told a salesman to hold off on a potential Mexican client. We sell to official, governmental LEAs  law- enforcement agencies  and security agencies ONLY, Vincenzetti wrote in an email.

When asked about its arrangements in various countries, the company responded that it does not comment on confidential business dealings.

Its American spokesman, Eric Rabe, did tell me that neither Russia nor Sudan is a current Hacking Team customer. The relationships, Rabe wrote, ended in 2014, Russia because the Putin government evolved from one considered friendly to the West to a more hostile regime and Sudan because of concerns about the countrys ability to use the system in accordance with the HT contract.

Separately, the company confirmed that the state of Puebla was, in fact, a former client.

Until recently, most of what was known about the world of private surveillance companies was a matter of hearsay and speculation. Industry players kept a low profile, operating discreetly from rented offices and meeting potential customers in person a few times a year at carefully screened trade shows.

This is why it was so notable when, in July 2015, an unusual tweet appeared in Hacking Teams Twitter feed. Since we have nothing to hide, it read, were publishing all our emails, files and source code.

Then came another tweet, with links to a downloadable file called Hacked Team. The file was huge, 420 gigabytes of material scraped from Hacking Teams internal servers. Inside were 33 folders containing the companys contracts, payroll documents, invoices, legal memos, customer-support records, and a five-year cache of email correspondence from chief executive down.

Hacking Team had itself been hacked.

WikiLeaks pounced on the breach and quickly uploaded the emails into a searchable database. Anyone with an internet connection could now read the chief executive joking about how his company was in the business of selling the evilest technology on earth.

With the source code for the Remote Control System now public, the company and its clients had to stop using it temporarily. By the end of the year though, Hacking Team had updated its product and was trying to rebuild its reputation.

I was curious whether a company that profited from online breaches could recover from its own.

I went to Milan to visit Hacking Teams headquarters, a stately grey apartment building with boxes of limp flowers adorning a few of its sooty sills. Vincenzetti, now 48, is a familiar type  a ferociously competitive, driven entrepreneur whose existence is organised around his work.

As we talked in a conference room, he periodically leapt to his feet and stalked around the table, considering in turn the espresso machine, the view from the window, a case of bottled water.

If I wanted to break into this room, how would I do it? he asked. There is a door, and there are two windows. He pressed his hands against the glass panes. The perimeter is the first thing you must secure, he continued.

Securing data was what he did earlier in his career. Now he had moved on.

If you cannot break into a bank, you cannot protect a bank. So when you are in security, really there is no difference between thinking offensively and defensively.

In the mid-1980s, Vincenzettis parents, a salesman and a schoolteacher, bought him a Commodore 64, one of the earliest personal computers. He soon created a Pac-Man clone, a Tron lightcycle-style game and a text-based adventure game. As a computer-science student at the University of Milan in the 90s, he became fascinated by cryptography; he corresponded with programmers around the world about new cryptographic theories, and wrote code for email encryption.

Vincenzetti left university early and founded three companies, all of them focused on defensive cybersecurity. After he founded Hacking Team in 2003, he tried to sell his services to Italian police agencies but found them sceptical that Mafiosi and other high-level criminals would ever bother to encrypt their communications.

But after the 2004 Madrid train bombings, which were coordinated via cellphones and the internet, police officers and intelligence agents not just in Italy but all across Europe became interested in contracting with offensive-hacking vendors, part of an emerging arms race over consumer-grade encryption.

The growth of Skype made it easy for users to encrypt their communications, and the authorities were eager to pay for countermeasures like the Remote Control System. Singapore, Hacking Teams first non-European client, signed on in 2008. The companys Middle Eastern business took off in 2011, a boom that coincided with the beginning of the Arab Spring.

All Hacking Team customers sign contracts agreeing to comply with local laws. The company says that it vets potential customers and studies reports from journalists and human-rights groups, looking for objective evidence or credible concerns that its products are being abused. But when it comes to Hacking Teams own interactions with customers, leaked documents suggest that employees have sometimes turned a blind eye.

Hacking Teams most persistent critic is Citizen Lab, a research group at the University of Torontos Munk School of Global Affairs.

Before the Hacked Team leak, Citizen Lab documented cases in which Hacking Team software turned up on the devices of activists in Morocco and the United Arab Emirates, and of an Ethiopian-American journalist in Virginia.

Ronald Deibert, Citizen Labs director, told me that Hacking Team is a company that appears to have no internal controls on abuse of its products. When I asked Vincenzetti about this, he said that Citizen Lab was motivated by money, noting that the group won a million- dollar grant shortly after publishing a report on Hacking Teams sales to Ethiopia.

Mexico is Hacking Teams biggest export market, accounting for nearly 6m in sales, according to leaked documents. Ostensibly, the Remote Control System is intended for fighting criminals and drug traffickers there. (There have been reports that the software was used in the apprehension of Chapo Guzman, Rabe told me, referring to the Mexican drug lord. I cant confirm it.)

The files indicate that at least seven other Mexican state governments were Hacking Team clients, but because they did not use email to the same extent as Puebla, their activities are harder to track. Multiple former Hacking Team employees told me that abuses of the software were not limited to Puebla.

The Hacked Team documents that offer the most revealing view of the companys ethos happen to be the most public ones. For years, as often as two or three times a day, Vincenzetti sent mass emails to hundreds of his business contacts. The recipients included numerous members of the US military and intelligence community, as well as government employees from the city of Cincinnati and the Internal Revenue Service. In these messages, Vincenzetti often addresses this audience collectively as gents. The news he cites is a reminder of how the geopolitical winds have been blowing in favor of Hacking Team and other self-described allies of law and order.

In Vincenzettis world, the system is always, as George Tenet famously said about pre- September 11 intelligence, blinking red: The imploding Middle East; a restive, nuclear-armed Russia; battalions of IS-trained jihadis roaming around Europe with their encrypted thumb drives and dark-web expertise. Against this backdrop of ever-increasing danger, concerns about human rights are naive at best.

Vincenzettis emails vividly exploit this sense of danger and alarm. He writes about shadowy gangs of Iranian hackers using the #JeSuisCharlie hashtag to inject malware into French laptops.

He celebrates the conviction of Ross Ulbricht, aka the Dread Pirate Roberts, creator of the Silk Road website. After the arrests of two Uzbek men in Brooklyn for telling informants that they wanted to join up with IS, Vincenzetti writes of a very serious terrorist plot on American soil foiled. He went on to tap out this sales pitch: The time has come for a technologically MORE SOPHISTICATED, and much more effective, internet supervision... something capable to penetrate the core of the terrorists HIDDEN forums. And such a (quite unique) technology EXISTS.

The following day, he gave a few more hints: I am talking about a NEW technology capable of neutralising their encryption-based protective layers in order to track them, identify them, locate them, chase them and finally bust them. Something operating on a massive scale. Something different. I am talking about a novel, superior, next-generation mass- surveillance technology.

The tone of Vincenzettis sales patter was strangely upbeat, especially considering his dire forecasts. It was almost as if he were in the business of selling microwave ovens or sandwiches, not tools through which the private lives of criminals (and whoever else) could be fully laid bare.

Vincenzettis unstated equation  privacy is secrecy, and secrecy is terrorism  is less controversial than it might appear. A supportive echo can be heard in many public statements from American officials, which Vincenzetti often cut and pasted into his mass emails.

Former attorney general Eric Holder called for investigative and prosecutorial tools that allow us to be pre- emptive. When FBI director James Comey warned that encryption threatens to lead all of us to a very dark place, Vincenzetti forwarded it along approvingly, with the tagline: We DO have an answer to many if not all of his concerns. And when, in May 2015, Comey warned of a threat that had morphed into a chaotic spider web, Vincenzetti sent word to his gents as well.

One month later, an anonymous hack revealed Hacking Teams own invisible spider web, and one year later, during the run-up to election day, came the internal emails of the Democratic Party. By then it was clear that tools for digital burglary had spread well beyond the hands of regular police officers.

Comey had argued for weaker safes; Vincenzetti was selling longer crowbars. The tools could be used to arrest Chapo Guzman, fight crime, smear a political opponent or just keep tabs on someone, anyone. To be hidden is to be a terrorist  this was the heart of his pitch. Any digital redoubt that could resist being pried open was a public risk and a private opportunity.
In the same week that British prime minister Theresa May outlined her vision for a hard Brexit from the European Union  withdrawing from the single market and the customs union  US President Donald Trump met with Michael Gove, a leading Tory Eurosceptic.

Gove was on hand for Trumps public announcement that the United States would move very quickly to reach a post-Brexit trade deal with the United Kingdom.

Not surprisingly, Britains Brexiteers are now touting a hypothetical trade deal with the US as a way to fill Britains post-EU trade vacuum.

But this could prove to be a hollow solution, given that Britain maintains a trade surplus with the US, and Trump is a vocal critic of American trade deficits.

Meanwhile, many observers in continental Europe are wondering if Britains pursuit of a bilateral deal with the US is just about economics, or if it implies a broader shift in British foreign policy.

The May governments recent behaviour suggests that it is putting the new US administrations interests before those of the EU and the rest of the world.

This approach was on full display in December, when May criticised then-US Secretary of State John Kerrys condemnation of Israeli settlement construction in the West Bank.

But perhaps Mays unorthodox intervention should not have come as a surprise, given that Trump tends to reward such disruptive behaviour.

A second episode occurred earlier this month at a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council, where British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson vetoed an EU statement of support for an ongoing Middle East peace effort.

The British government then refused to send a high-level delegation to a Middle East peace conference organised by the French government, arguing that it would send the wrong signal just four days before Trump took office.

It is no secret where Trump stands in respect of the Israel-Palestine conflict: Throughout his campaign, he promised to move the US embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, in clear violation of international law.

Meanwhile, there is some evidence to suggest that Trumps Eurosceptic team is influencing Mays Brexit strategy. Johnson met with key members of Trumps administration just prior to Mays recent speech, and we can safely assume that they discussed the UKs path out of the EU.

Trump administration officials, for their part, have since suggested that they helped convince May to roll the dice on a hard Brexit.

This represents not only an astonishing reversal of US policy toward Europe  which has, for seven decades, unswervingly supported European integration  but also a dramatic shift in the UKs external stance.

May is apparently willing to gamble her countrys future on an alliance with an unpopular, untested, and mendacious US president.

By courting Trump, White House chief strategist Stephen Bannon, and other Eurosceptic figures in the US administration, Mays government is playing a dangerous and shortsighted game. In her recent speech, May claimed the UK is leaving the European Union, not Europe.

But she would do well to remember that Britains security and prosperity is primarily linked to the EU, not to an isolationist, America first US.

The vast majority of the UKs trade is with the EU, not with the US; and this, like the UKs geographical location and security environment, is not going to change.

By seeking a close relationship with both the Trump administration and the EU, May is trying to ride two horses at once. Trump has already questioned the EUs raison detre, and suggested that Britain will not be the last country to exit the bloc.

Bannon has been a cheerleader for far-right European nationalist parties, promising to help National Front leader Marine Le Pen in her campaign for the French presidency this spring.

If Trump continues to view NATO as obsolete, or starts to tear down the pillars of the international order and the supranational organisations that have maintained global stability since 1945, he will undermine British, European, and US security.

It is hard to see how a weakened EU, NATO, or United Nations could possibly be in anyones interest.

Trumps inaugural address suggested that the rest of the world has thrived at ordinary Americans expense. He promised to make America great again by isolating it from all negative influences, limiting trade, and supporting American-made products.

But if Trump goes down this path, he will make all countries, including the US, much poorer. And May, for her part, should realise that there isnt much room for the UK in an America first world.

Instead of pandering to the Trump administration, British and European leaders should be pointing out that American greatness rests on the strong multilateral institutions, close partnerships, and international rules that have long maintained global peace and stability.

And leaders from both the UK and the EU should be forging a strategic partnership to ensure European security, now that Trumps presidency has cast US security guarantees into doubt.

British and EU leaders should follow German chancellor Angela Merkels lead and make it clear to Trump that their cooperation is conditioned on shared values. Now, more than ever, Britain and the EU must defend and promote liberal democratic norms, not embrace populists narcissistic nationalism.
Business Business Roundup (January 28)

Hot air balloons prepare for takeoff in Bagan, one of Burmas world-class tourism destinations. / REUTERS

Burma is set to increase exports of farmed eels to Japan under a new joint venture deal.

Under the agreement between Anawa Devi Fishing & General Trading Co-op in Burma and Japans Daiichi Koutsu Sangyo, the firms will farm level-finned eels, Kyoto News reported. Level-finned eels are consumed in Burma but have not been commercially farmed in the past, said Anawa Devi chairperson Toe Nandar Tin.

Daiichia Japanese taxi operator which has diversified into finance, real estate, and other businessesis set to invest US$1 million in the project, according to the agreement. Anawa Devi will provide land, research and other basic infrastructure which will start on a 1-hectare plot of land in Rangoons Dala Township, according to the report.

Japan is one of the worlds biggest consumers of fish.

Investors Targeted Burma in 2016, Plan to Invest More

Burma saw a range of mainly Asia-based private equity funds, investment firms, venture capitalists, and development organizations seeking deals in the consumer, technology and financial services sectors in 2016. The pace of activity looks set to step up in 2017, according to DealStreet Asia.

Delta Capital Myanmar, which began as a partnership between Hong Kong-based Simon Murry & Company and Serge Pun & Associates, is about one third of the way through the process of raising a $100 million second private equity vehicle this year, according to the report.

Delta Capitals first fund, called the Myanmar Opportunities Fund I, raised about $50 million and made five investments in oil, gas, alcoholic beverage manufacturing, an internet service provider, and a PET bottle manufacturer. A sixth deal for an internet service provider is in the works.

The beverage market in general and alcoholic and non-alcoholic segments are growing by 20 percent year on year right now, said Dominik Burckgard of Delta Capital Myanmar.

For Deltas second fund, a major deal is likely to be in the consumer space, Burckgard told DealStreet. Typically, Delta Capital makes an average $6-$9 million investment in a company in exchange for a 10-40 percent stake, company officials said.

Anthem Asia, which describes itself as an investment holding company, has made nine investments in Burmas small and medium enterprise sector in the last few years. In 2016, it invested in the Rivo Tech digital agency and the Rangoon Tea House group. It is also an investor in the Thalon International School.

Another player in 2016 was the Myanmar Investment Group, the report said. It took a 40 percent stake in Paradiso Cinema Co., a joint venture with local company Maze, which plans to construct 100 cinemas around Burma.

Burma Woos Tourism Investors at Singapore Forum

Burma called for more investmentand for responsible and sustainable investmentin the countrys tourism sector during the week-long ASEAN Tourism Forum 2017 which concluded in Singapore this week, Travel Daily News reported.

The timing couldnt be more perfect to invest in Myanmar as it opens up to the world, Minister of Hotels and Tourism U Ohn Maung told participants at the forum. We have fantastic tourism destinations that need to be served with world-class hotels and resorts, unique travel experiences, and better infrastructure.

The government is working on creating opportunities for preferential treatment of investors in the tourism sector, the report said.

The minister is also a proponent of community-based tourism, which has the potential for significant income-generation for local people. In early 2017, example projects include the Thandaung-gyi B&B project and an eco-tourism project at Indawgyi Lake in Kachin State.

According to figures from the tourism ministry, foreign direct investment in Burmas hotel and tourism projects reached almost $3 billion in 2016. Singapore was the top investor, followed by Thailand and Vietnam. As of November 2016, foreign direct investment had generated 56 projects in the tourism sector, up from 48 projects in 2015.

Nissan Car Assembly Underway in Burma

Nissan has started assembling its Sunny model car in Burma, according to a statement from Nissan and Tan Chong Motor Myanmar (TCMM) this week.

At present, the cars are assembled at the existing Tan Chong facility in Rangoons Hlaing Tharyar Township, but the company will open a new assembly plant soon in Bago.

TCMM called the start of production a milestone in the companys commitment to expansion in Burma. TCMM is the local subsidiary of a Malaysian company and has sole rights to assemble Nissan cars in Burma.

Nissan is pleased to be a strong player in the growth of the automotive industry in Myanmar, said Yutaka Sanada, a senior vice president for Nissan Asia & Oceania.

I am pleased that the Tan Chong Group will further expand their business in Myanmar with the construction of a CKD assembly plant, said Rangoon Chief Minister U Phyo Min Thein. This project will bring in investment and employment opportunities to the local community to help boost economic growth and elevate income levels.

Burmas Dairy Sector has High Potential for Expansion

Burmas still-nascent dairy industry has high potential for growth over the next 15 years, according to Sangchai Chotchuangchutchaval of the Thai dairy firm Patkol Public Co.

Recalling Thai experiences in the sector, he said that dairy operators in Thailand began with low expertise and made significant losses at the beginning.

We do not want Myanmar to repeat our mistakes, he said at the sidelines of a seminar in the Thai capital Bangkok, the Nation newspaper reported.

Burma needs to build up standards and quality in the sector ahead of a potential large inflow of foreign dairy products, Sangchai said. Patpol has already worked with local partners to build dairy plants in the Rangoon Region, he added, while Mandalay has strong potential in the future because of its easy access to the dairy supply.

U Yan Naing Soe, director of Burmas livestock breeding and veterinary department, said the country needed to grow its dairy sector.

Our economy relies very much on agriculture and livestock, he said. There is a lot of room for improvement in the dairy business. We need to support farmers and help them grow their business and income.
Dateline Dateline Irrawaddy: This System Calls for Cooperation

The Irrawaddy discusses the impact of the new public transit system on commuters soon after its launch, as well as the challenges ahead.

Kyaw Zwa Moe: Welcome to Dateline Irrawaddy! This week, well discuss the impact of the new public transit system on commuters more than a week after its launch on Jan. 16, the challenges facing the divisional government and bus line operators, and how the transition is going. Ko Thet Tin Win aka Ko Tayoke Lay, who previously owned bus line No. 45 and now owns No. 21, and Rangoon divisional lawmaker Ko Nay Phone Latt, who contributed to the introduction of the new bus system, will join me for the discussion. Im Irrawaddy English editor Kyaw Zwa Moe.

It has been eight days now since the launch of the new system. People had more than enough trouble under the old Ma Hta Tha [Rangoon Supervisory Committee for Motor Vehicles] system, which dates back to 1962. Ko Nay Phone Latt, what is your assessment of the new system so far? Is it a success? Has public transportation gotten better or worse?

Nay Phone Latt: It is not worse; it has improved. But it is too early to say the new system is a success. Because I worked as a volunteer, I see and understand the troubles that people face. In the first few days, some bus lines did not operate, there were an insufficient number of buses, and bus stops were crowded. Volunteers had to help commuters get home. These were the difficulties in the beginning. As more buses were added to the fleet, it became more convenient each day. But through Monday, I heard that there was a shortage of buses and that many buses overcharged or did not operate into the night, leaving commuters stuck on the street at night.

KZM: The habits of the old system are still alive.

NPL: Yes, as far as I have heard, they are. The public transit system has improved but it is too early to say it is a full-fledged success.

KMZ: Many things remain to be done, dont they? Rangoon has a population of more than five million people. The number of commuters is estimated to be around 2.7 million. Bus lines were reformed out of necessity, but as Ko Nay Phone Latt has just pointed out, they are not yet ready. We have heard a lot of complaints. So what are the major problems for bus line operators and bus lines themselves, Ko Tayoke Lay?

Thet Tin Win: The major problem is that there are not a sufficient number of buses. But it was not because the new system was launched all of a sudden. We have worked in cooperation with concerned departments to implement the new system since May 2016. The process took a long time because the government wanted to make sure individual bus line operators could join the new system and were not negatively affected, as well as prevent big companies from monopolizing the system. The process took time mainly because the government wanted to help individual bus owners who have been engaged in this business for a while to join the new system. The new system was not introduced overnight.

So far, it is difficult to say if the system is successful or not. There are advantages as well as difficulties. The advantage is that the new system addresses problems like traffic woes and violations, as well as resulting violence. But the weakness of the new system is that there are not enough buses. We need replacements and at the same time, technical things like GPS, CCTV cameras and a digital payment system have yet to be implemented. The divisional chief minister said at a meeting on Jan. 20 that he wanted to introduce the digital payment system. We have found that the government is making an effort. The situation suggests that we should lend a hand to the government by giving it the information we have gathered. Bus line operators have to lend a hand and commuters have to report difficulties to the government in real time.

KZM: Yes, it would be difficult for the new system to be successful immediately considering the huge number of commuters it has to handle. It is perfectly understandable. But do you think it is on the right track?

TTW: It has started moving in the right direction and it is time we pushed it together because the system has been in operation for more that a week now.

KZM: Ko Nay Phone Latt, the Rangoon divisional government as well as the Yangon Region Transport Authority (YRTA) are primarily responsible for the new system. Do you think people are well informed about the system? Do they know which buses to take? There are around 70 bus lines now, and commuters are not yet up-to-date on some of the bus lines. How was the system managed over the past week to inform commuters in real time about the bus routes?

NPL: As Ko Tayoke Lay has said, commuters should put forward suggestions and report their difficulties. But, to be frank, there is no proper channel through which commuters can provide feedback or file complaints. We have set up a 181 hotline to receive complaints. You might have heard about it. But it is not free; there is a charge. And we heard that commuters could not get an answer from the hotline. There have been problems.

I am particularly disappointed that information could not be provided to the public swiftly and correctly. We did distribute pamphlets about the bus routes. Initially, we printed about 500,000 copies of the pamphlets when there were only 61 bus lines. Then, the number of bus lines increased to 70, and we printed new pamphlets again. Then, another bus line was added. Now, I have heard that there will be seven more bus lines though I still dont have all of the information. To be frank, the routes in the pamphlets are full of errors. Because the information was not correct, there were severe difficulties for both volunteers and commuters. I have talked to the chief minister about it and he said he would fix it. He said he would also systematically rearrange bus route signs and provide updated pamphlets at bus stops for commuters.

KZM: Weve replaced an old system with a new one. There will also be people who oppose and resist change. Has there been any political intervention by families or relatives of former generals who operate bus lines? Have you seen them resist the change?

TTW: I havent seen this. The major weakness was that bus owners were less cooperative and slow to cooperate. So, we couldnt change the public transportation system quickly.

KZM: I heard that the Rangoon divisional chief minister U Phyo Min Thein said that some bus owners were reluctant because of their greed, and he urged them to not think of themselves but to work for the convenience of their passengers. Did he do that?

TTW: To the government, it might appear that most bus owners, drivers and conductors didnt want to join the new system or were going against it. But all the bus owners, drivers and conductors who have engaged in this transportation service for a long time like the new public bus system. We accept the formation of public bus companies and shared ownership. It is clear who doesnt like the new system. Some bus line owners previously leased their buses for a set fee, leading drivers to compete for additional passengers to earn more. They only cared about money and neglected everything else. So, bus owners, drivers and conductors who used that payment system dont like the new system. But other bus owners, drivers and conductorsincluding mewho have long engaged in the bus service, fully support the new system.

KZM: Do bus owners see greater profits now?

TTW: We are earning much more than we did in the past. But, we dont like it. Previously, when the bus fare was 300 kyats, we transported around 200 passengers and earned between 35,000 and 40,000 kyats for a completed route. Now, we are earning between 70,000 and 80,000 kyats for a completed route, but the bus fare is only 200 kyats.

So, we are transporting 500 to 600 passengers. During rush hour, a bus carries at least 400 passengers. This is totally unreasonable. We earn more money, but passengers have to take overcrowded buses. This is not fair. Bus lines will be successful only when the three partiescommuters, bus drivers and bus ownersare satisfied. Passenger problems are our problems. Problems facing bus drivers and conductors are our problems as well. So, the number of buses should be increased immediately. The new system is fine except for the insufficient number of buses. If passengers can take the bus with ease, they wont mind transferring a couple times.

KZM: Both the government and the YRTA have said that about 1,000 buses would be purchased and added to the existing fleet as soon as possible. But the problem now is the lack of direct routes and that passengers have to change buses three or four times, paying 200 kyats each time. They have to pay more than in the past. How should this be addressed, Ko Nay Phone Latt?

NPL: According to Ko Tayoke Lay, earnings have significantly increased, mainly because buses have to carry many people. If there are more buses, it should be possible to regulate them to only carry a fixed number of passengers.

We also need to review the bus fares. People have complained. Previously, there were buses that went directly to their destinations. Now, they complain about having to transfer and spending more on fares. Another complaint is that passengers are overcharged to sit in the front of the bus. Aside from overcharging, passengers are already spending more on normal bus faresespecially students and workers from the outskirts. If these complaints are true, we need to think about how to fix this. It would be best if we could apply the card system used in Singapore, which charges according to the distance traveled. That system can even charge in cents. So, it would be best if we could apply a similar system.

KZM: As Ko Tayoke Lay has mentioned, there were problems with crime [resulting from the misconduct of bus drivers and conductors] on the buses and streets. This has been reduced. But, what other problems might arise, Ko Nay Phone Latt?

NPL: I have made three suggestions. The first is to provide information. There should be someone on standby who will take commuter questions about the bus routes. The second suggestion is about complaints. Though there are fewer fights now, but there are still traffic violations. I am still frequently receiving complaints along with photo evidence. People are active in that regard. They document the violations and file complaints. But there is still no proper complaint handling mechanism despite having technicians who will help us implement it. The third suggestion is to get feedback. The public is the most important if we are to truly become a democracy. I would like to urge the government to establish a mechanism that responds to the feedback and participation of the public with due respect rather than taking a top-down approach or just listening to the voices of the people without responding.

KZM: Overall, what do you think are the major problems, Ko Tayoke Lay?

TTW: Mainly, the Rangoon divisional government needs to install more buses.

KZM: Those buses should be in good condition as well!

TTW: Yes. And I would like to tell commuters that we understand their troubles. However, this system calls for cooperation and I would like to request that they keep being patient and pushing for a successful reform.

KZM: Ko Nay Phone Latt, Ko Tayoke Lay, Thank you for your contributions!
Features Beekeeping Boosts Rural Incomes as Burma Honey Sales Grow

Beekeeping in Kalaw Township, Shan State. / Myanmar Now

KYAUK HTET VILLAGE, Shan State  Until a few years ago, the farmers in Kyauk Htet Village paid little attention to the wild bees that were living around them in the farm fields, fruit trees and forests that cover the rolling Shan Hills in Kalaw Township.

In the past, we only ate bee larvae and destroyed the natural bees nests in the forest to take out the honey. But after we attended a training course we realized bees are beneficial insects, said Zaw Myo Thein.

Now, he and hundreds of other small farmers in southern Shan State have boosted their income through apiculture and they are trainedand enthusiasticbeekeepers.

Extra income from beekeeping has generated enough money for the school fees of my son. I would not be able to send him to the town school without it, said Zaw Myo Thein. He keeps around 100 hives next to his wheat field after starting with four when he first received training from the Plan Bee Project.

I had no interest in this business as I was very afraid of bees. However, after the training course I got familiar with the bees and Im no longer afraid and can make money from this business, Zaw Myo Thein said, adding that he earned almost US$1,000 from honey sales last year.

Hein Hein Tun, another beekeeper and farmer in nearby Pindaya Township, estimated he made about $1,100 in 2016. My current income has increased compared to the starting period, he said.

San Win, secretary of the Beekeeping Business Association of Shan State, explained each hive has around 30,000 workers and one queen who live off the flowers in nearby fields. He said most bees in Shan State make honey collected from the nectar of flowering plum trees, adding that when there are few flowering crops and trees, keepers feed their colonies syrup.

San Win, who keeps 400 beehives, said a kilogram of honey fetches around $0.75-$1.00 at the farm and each hive can produce up to 400 kilograms annually, while it costs about $60 to maintain a hive.

Plan Bee

Implemented by the non-governmental organization TAG, the project began training farmers and providing beehives in 2013; it also supports the honey market chain development in Burma. Plan Bee has worked with the Ministry of Agricultures Apiculture Enterprise to train about 500 farmers in 20 villages in five townships in Shan State, an area home to poor Shan and Pa-O villagers.

The project is funded by the Livelihoods and Food Security Trust Fund (LIFT), a poverty reduction donor fund supported by 12 governments.

Early trainees have established their own businesses. We just have to boost their business with some support, said Tin Maung Kyi, a Plan Bee project manager.

Khin Mya Oo, director of the projects Apiculture Resource and Business Centre, added, We are doing marketing for retail and wholesale markets for the bee products of the trainees.

Beekeeping provides a number of benefits beyond income from its relatively high-value product: honey. Bees are agents that support agriculture by carrying pollen, Zaw Myo Thein noted.

Beehives also produce wax that can be used to make other products, such as candles, while honey has nutritional value for local households, according to TAGs project website, which added that beekeeping requires little space, making it accessible for landless families.

TAG estimates more than 100,000 people gain additional income from the honey production that it supports.

Export Potential

Last year, Burma had more than 950 registered beekeepers with almost 150,000 hives, mostly located in the central regions. These produced around 4,500 metric tons of honey, some three-quarters of which is destined for export largely to other Asian countries, according to the governments Apiculture Enterprise. The number of beekeepers and hives has roughly doubled in the last three years.

Burma has much potential to further expand its honey production, but should improve its hygiene and processing standards in the production process in order to expand access to global markets, such as the United States, said Tin Maung Kyi, of Plan Bee.

Modern equipment should be used to produce better quality of honey to expand the market, he said.

China is the worlds largest honey exporter, and in Southeast Asia, Vietnam is a major producer, which earns around $132 million from annual honey export, according to international trade statistics.

A LIFT-supported workshop on honey production in March 2016 highlighted great expansion potential for Burma, as well as hurdles and risks to growth.

Experts pointed to an urgent need for better government regulation of the growing use of chemical pesticide and fertilizer in Burma, which threaten bee populations. Another problem is the decline in global honey prices and demand in recent years, which has also brought down prices for beekeepers in Burma.

Naing Oo, manager at the Shwe Pan Honey Production Company, which exports to Japan, Thailand and the United States, said he had been impacted by global market developments.

The demand is quite cool this year, although I still shipped out about 500 tonnes of honey last year, he said, adding that Burma struggled to compete with low-priced honey from Vietnam.

Myanmar honeys quality is quite good, but foreign merchants prefer lower priced honey for their profits. Only if the United States cannot buy more honey from Vietnam, they try to purchase from our market, he said.

(Edited by Paul Vrieze)

This story originally appeared on Myanmar Now.
News Arakanese Villagers Call for Suspension of Kyaukphyu SEZ Project

A China National Petroleum Corporation gas terminal on the outskirts of Kyaukphyu Township. / Moe Myint / The Irrawaddy

RANGOON  Following a meeting on Thursday, about 300 people from 25 villages in southern Arakan States Kyaukphyu Township called for a suspension of the controversial Kyaukphyu Special Economic Zone (SEZ) until the government could unveil a compensation scheme for land grabbing, a resettlement plan and SEZ by-laws.

The meeting was organized by the Kyaukphyu Rural Development Associations (KRDA) coordinator U Tun Kyi. KRDA released a statement on Facebook on Thursday expressing local concerns.

Concerns included compensation for land confiscation; environmental impact; effects on farmers and agriculture; job uncertainty; lack of information regarding a relocation plan; social impacts on woman; unclear by-laws; and a general sense that the project would not benefit the Arakanese people.

This demand marks ongoing protests regarding the Kyaukphyu SEZ. Former President U Thein Sein pushed to continue its implementation before ending his tenure but in December 2015, a coalition of 107 non-profit organizations from Arakan State lobbied to suspend the project.

Even we [activists] have no idea what is happening with the SEZ now, said U Tun Kyi.

The new government said it would begin the project in July but has not yet explained how farmers will be compensated, U Tun Kyi added.

The previous government and local investors had allotted 3.8 million kyats per acre in Thaing Chaung village to build a water reservoir. Locals stated that the current market value is 30 million kyats per acre. U Tun Kyi said the government offered to double the 3.8 million kyats payment, but that it was unclear whether the government would offer the current market price to farmers.

Farmers have repeatedly questioned the National League for Democracy (NLD) governments transparency, saying that they are trying to avoid similar conflicts in the future.

Previously, a deep-sea port and gas pipeline projects have generated problems related to land seizure and unresolved compensation. At the end of December, the then-ruling Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) announced that Chinese state-owned conglomerate CITIC would develop a seaport for the SEZ and implement the industrial zone.

Further negotiations between investors and the newly-elected NLD government will continue.

The government abolished U Thein Seins former SEZ committee in August 2016 and re-formed the committee with fresh faces, led by Vice President Henry Van Thio and Minister of Commerce U Than Myint.

There have been no further developments regarding the SEZ under the new governments tenure.

OXFAM held a forum in Naypyidaw on Thursday, highlighting responsible investment in Kyaukphyu. The organizer invited the commerce minister, government officials and Arakanese civil society organizations, but the minister did not attend, according to Ko Soe Shwe, Sky Youth Organizations co-founder who attended the meeting.

On behalf of the minister, some officials from the recently reformed Kyaukphyu SEZ committee spoke broadly at the conference.

Ko Tun Tun Naing, a Kyaukphyu resident who joined the conference, told The Irrawaddy that Ministry of Commerce director general U Aung Soe promised to create job opportunities for locals and to develop the SEZ without harming environmental resources.

He added that government representatives had not mentioned whether they had already designated the compensation rate for farmers, despite gearing up for the project on the ground.

Before building, SEZ by-laws should be enacted to balance developer needs with legal protection for locals, said Arakanese parliamentarian U Ba Shein.

Updates regarding the SEZ have yet to be released by the government, and adminstrators of the SEZ Facebook page have reportedly not answered locals concerns.

SEZ members could not be reached for comment on this article before publication.

The Kyaukphyu SEZ would cover 4,289 acres of land, with an industrial zone being built across five tracts in the first phase of the project.
Saturday, January 28th, 2017 (7:58 am) - Score 2,121

Problems with gaining access to private land are reportedly delaying the Welsh Governments joint Superfast Cymru project with Openreach (BT) to roll-out faster fibre broadband (FTTC/P) services to around 40,000 extra homes and businesses in Wales.

At present roughly 95% of premises in Wales have already been put within reach of a fibre broadband service, although this figure drops to about 90% for those able to access the contracted superfast broadband speeds of greater than 30Mbps. The existing contracts are expected to run until the end of 2017 and during that time a further 90,000 or so premises should be added to the FTTC/P network coverage.

However the project in Wales has also suffered a few delays, some of which can be administrative and others may relate to more complicated engineering challenges like blocked cable ducts, traffic (road) management and disruption from bad weather (particularly during winter in rural areas). Now the BBC has reported that around 40,000 premises in the planned upgrade are being delayed by wayleave disputes with land owners.

Alwen Williams, Director of BT Wales, said: Way-leaves have been  and continue to be  one of our most significant challenges  getting permissions to access the land that we need to access in order to lay the fibre cables. At the moment we have around 40,000 homes and businesses that are held up because we have a complex discussion or negotiation going on with various parties about how to gain access to land or permissions to dig, road closures.

Alwen admits that the problem is absolutely immense. The fact that Superfast Cymru is now reaching more rural centric areas may also be exasperating the issue because this is where the need to secure constructive wayleave agreements with land owners (i.e. rural businesses, farmers, private estates etc.) can become much trickier.

Much as we reported yesterday (here), wayleave agreements represent a legal written consent, which allows infrastructure providers access to carry out work on privately owned land. The industry has already done a lot of work to develop a more standardised approach, but landowners may sometimes demand high rental prices for new infrastructure and can be worried about the impact of new infrastructure on their property.

The Government has been pushing to tackle this issue by revising the Electronic Communications Code (ECC), although that threatens to reduce the income that landowners may receive from related agreements and thus opposition continues to be stiff.

Interestingly the Welsh Government didnt really respond to the problem itself. Instead the Welsh Minister for Skills and Science, Julie James, said she was frustrated with the information that BT has been giving out and this is apparently one of the reasons why they took over the [Superfast Cymru] website last summer.

Apparently the new website has been improved  dramatically since then, although the new one doesnt seem to mention the projects coverage targets or timescales and its availability checker merely appears to be a vague implementation of Openreachs own availability test. No regular progress updates are provided about the roll-out itself, although theyre by no means the only Broadband Delivery UK supported scheme to have that problem.

On a more positive note the Welsh Government are in the process of examining how up to 80m of BT clawback and additional public money could be put towards bringing faster broadband to areas that are likely to miss out at the end of the current contract (here). The vague aim is to bring 30Mbps+ broadband coverage to the hardest to reach premises across Wales by 2020 (deployment starting in January 2018) and a deal could be signed in the latter half of 2017. But wayleaves could easily become a problem for the new deal too.

UPDATE 30th Jan 2017

Weve been chatting to Andrew from Thinkbroadband, who recently gave evidence to the Welsh Assembly on the above matter, and he is fairly confident that most of the delayed c.40,000 premises reflect the outstanding Fibre-to-the-Premise (FTTP) commitment in the Welsh Governments contract with BT (this matches up with TBBs mapping of the current deployment progress).

One partial solution to this could be to install less FTTP and more FTTC / VDSL2 cabinets like we saw occur in England during BDUK Phase 1, although this wont solve all of the problems. Andrew also noted that the Welsh Minister for Skills and Science, Julie James, appears to be pushing for a non-BT solution to help tackle the remaining gap after the current contracts have completed and this may involve more Fixed Wireless Access (FWA).
As efforts to eradicate the mysterious emergence of Multiple Sclerosis continuously pours, the debilitating auto-immune disease has once again been put to the spotlight after it has been granted an $8.4-million boost in Saskatoon. Dr. Michael Levin, a newly recruited researcher from the the College of Medicine at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center has revealed that the money will be used to create a chair in MS clinical research at the University of Saskatchewan. It was found that Dr. Levin was also the Director of the Multiple Sclerosis Center and Laboratory of Viral and Demyelinating Diseases, in Memphis.

$8.4-Million Funding Granted To Top Scientists

In one of his statements reported by CBC News, the newly recruited researcher claimed that this is allegedly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for him and his team since the study would be able to induce his most creative state ever. Additionally, he said that he's also set to come up with a series of risky experiments, or what he so-called as high-risk experiments, that might actually give us the answer. Surveys conducted show that nearly 3,500 to 3,700 people suffer from it in Saskatchewan, and perhaps considered to be the highest rate in Canada. It was found that Levin and his team have been given this amount in order to identify causes of MS and develop new or improved treatments.

The Future Of Multiple Sclerosis Research

Meanwhile, according to reports revealed by Global News, Dr. Levin and his team plans to study the relationship between viruses, auto-antibodies and acquired DNA mutations. He continues to explain that a number of studies have already looked at inherited mutations, however, he has also highly emphasized that what they're interested in is to study the abnormal DNA mutations in people's bodies that they acquire over a lifetime. Furthermore, Levin will allegedly collaborate with the MS Neuroscience Research Center and clinic at Saskatoon City Hospital. Consequently, the Saskatoon City Hospital Foundation was also able to raise $5.6 million over the past six years to contribute to the research chair. Ultimately, Erin Kuan, president of the MS Society of Canada - Saskatchewan has revealed that they aren't near the finish line, but this is definitely a big jump across the start line.
Apple Inc. decided to join the partnership on AI, a research group that is largely composed of a corporation that already established the name in innovation and technology. These include Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and Facebook. The said admission would have been reportedly announced last week. However, it seems like Apple and the Partnership on AI didn't give any comments regarding this.

Partnership On AI Obtains Continuous Growth In Members, Apple About To Join

According to Bloomberg, during the time that the organization was revealed last year, many are speculating that it would have additional members on the group. Some are looking for reasons why Twitter, Intel and Apple are not part of it, though.

It was remembered that many are shocked when Apple introduced Siri, the company's virtual assistant. This made consumers knowledgeable of how AI looks like. Though, reports admitted that it already loses the top as Google and Amazon released their version of virtual assistants.

Reports mentioned that the leading tech company is excited to join the said project. As a matter of fact, it is just waiting about their formal involvement in the organization. On the other side, Tech Crunch gave out the list of individuals who would form part of the board based on their knowledge on AI. These include:

"Dario Amodei (OpenAI), Subbarao Kambhampati (Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence & ASU), Deirdre Mulligan (UC Berkeley), Carol Rose (American Civil Liberties Union), Eric Sears (MacArthur Foundation) and Jason Furman (Peterson Institute of International Economics) will participate in the discussions."

Partnership On AI To Set Standards On Artificial Intelligence

The Partnership on AI is currently undergoing the process of clarifying specific areas of work. However, people should expect that the organization would have a write up regarding ethics, inclusivity, and privacy. Sources stated that the meeting would take place on February 2017.
The first brand new Nokia phone has unveiled only a few weeks ago, the kind of flagship device that we would expect to take on the iPhone 8 and the Galaxy S8 this year. While the Nokia 6 is an affordable handset that targets the Chinese market, HMD is working closely on a few additional Nokia handsets that are supposed to be announced later this year, and the company may soon launch a Nokia 8 a flagship killer to compete against Apple's and Samsung's incoming flagships.

The Samsung Galaxy S8: Expected Design, Specs And Features

A lot of us are expecting great things from the Galaxy S8, with speculations that the device will come with a dual-lens camera, a 4200mAh battery, a whopping 6GB of RAM, an iris scanner, an AI assistant and with a curved QHD or 4K screen design. Samsung may use Qualcomm's latest Snapdragon 835. It will also sport a 30-megapixel rear camera with optical image stabilization, paired with a 9-megapixel front-facing snapper. The batteries could be the same size as last year's phones, which would mean 3000mAh for the S8 and 3600mAh for the Galaxy S8 Plus. In addition, there will be a new version of fast charging or fast wireless charging that will be expected from Samsung's highly anticipated smartphone.

The Nokia 8: Expected Design, Specs And Features

The biggest "leak" of this year and that's getting a lot of attention came out of CES, suggesting to be the Nokia 8. The phone has been tipped to come with no physical buttons. It is set to be powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 835, a new chipset for 2017, and that's a rumor that's already appeared, packed with 6GB of RAM and 128GB storage options. Moreover, the Nokia 8 will sport a 22.6-megapixel camera and that would have an advanced camera with Zeiss optics. Extra features suggest that there might be a heart-rate monitor functionality available with the phone.
Whistleblower organization WikiLeaks strongly criticized president Donald Trump through its Twitter account, after he blasted through the same platform former U.S. soldier Chelsea Manning, claiming that shes an ungrateful traitor that shouldn't be released from prison. Manning is well-known for being the source that provided WikiLeaks classified information regarding the U.S. military actions in Iraq and Afghanistan, for which she was sentenced to 35 years in jail.

Another Clash Between WikiLeaks And Donald Trump

Regarding what the Republican said about Manning, WikiLeaks stated that hes clearly wrong about his remarks, explaining that the former U.S. soldier was actually found innocent of aiding the enemy, and the Pentagon admitted under oath no-one harmed. Naturally, former president Barack Obamas decision of granting clemency to Manning was framed by the previous offer that WikiLeaks leader Julian Assange made, assuring that he was willing to get extradited to the U.S. if the former soldier ended up being released from prison.

Julian Assanges Extradition Will Put Trumps Administration In Front Of A Huge Dilemma

Clearly, this is another situation in which the pro-transparency organization clearly shows a different position from the U.S. president, in a moment in which the relationship between both parties are more controversial than ever after it was known that WikiLeaks collaborated with Russian hackers aligned with Vladimir Putins regime, to publish harmful information about Hillary Clinton in order to get Trump elected. In fact, as reported in a previous article, it would be quite interesting to see how his administration would be with Julian Assange, once he gets extradited next year, in the case that hes actually willing to make his part of the deal.

Apparently, Donald Trumps claims over Manning came after The Guardian newspaper published an editorial written by her, in which she explained that if theres was a lesson to draw from Obamas legacy, it would be to not start off with a compromise, adding that his successor must be a person who isnt afraid to be criticized.
A recall of certain Ikea chairs have been issued on Friday after reports of fingertip amputations. The colorful beach chairs could suddenly collapse which could cause the user to fall or have their fingers sliced off. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced the recall on about 33,400 MYSINGSO chairs due to "fingertip amputation hazard".

There have been at least 13 incidents of the chair collapsing reported worldwide. Out of the 13, 10 resulted to minor injuries, and 6 in fingertip amputations.Three of the incidents were from the US, including one of the fingertip amputations, said the commission.

Ikea have given out a list of the chairs being recalled with the product labels and numbers. Consumers can find the labels on the wooden frame sewn into the fabric for the product number. The Ikea chairs recall comes a few days after the company reported five incident coming from Finland, Germany, USA, Denmark, and Australia, the CBS Sacramento says.

The company explained that the beach chair collapsed was due to incorrect re-assembly. The company further stated that it is possible to re-assemble the chair incorrectly after washing the fabric sheet which leads to risks of falls or finger entrapments. Ikea also state recently that it has improved the beach chairs design to lessen the risks of incorrect re-assembly after the product went through testing and a full investigation, the Buzzfeed News reports.

The redesigned chair will be displayed in Ikea stores in February 2017. Last year, the retailer recalled millions of dressers after they were found to be responsible to the deaths of three toddlers. The families of three toddlers who were crushed to death by the Ikea dressers filed a lawsuit resulting to $50 million tentative settlement, while no reports of settlements have been made yet about the victim of Ikea chairs.


When the Amazon Echo was first released, it took the market by storm. For months, the device was constantly sold out online. But while the smart speaker was a good device on its own, what really set it apart and made it a success was Alexa, Amazon's built-in virtual assistant. With thousands of skills - or commands - mastered, she has been virtually unmatched.

That does not mean, however, that companies have been too afraid to compete with the Amazon Echo and Alexa. Just last year, Google released Google Home, the search engine giant's bet against the earlier smart speaker. And while several publications wondered if the Google Home could match the Echo, it just has not gotten to that point.

The two years that the Echo spent alone in the market definitely did it some good. Among its competitors, Amazon has set up the highest number of third-party partners, thereby making sure that Alexa can do more than its counterparts. And in the smart speaker industry, this detail is almost enough to declare a winner.

But in order to keep this head start, Amazon continues to add skills to Alexa and the next one might be an unexpected one. For some time now, the device and its AI has been able to control smart appliances for simple requests as turning on and off. But according to Fox News, the virtual assistant might soon replace the need for a keyboard as well.

"The mass adoption [of Amazon's Alexa devices] may lead to the decline of the keyboard," the publication quotes Slice Intelligence analyst Ken Cessar. "[The Echo], give its easy of use and low price point could establish itself as the hub of the smartphone." He then went on to make an example of the Echo in a standard family kitchen.

Because the kitchen is a place where hands are usually tied, it makes it easier for family members to shout out commands or questions, which Alexa will then answer. So - in a way - physical cookbooks were replaced by online recipes and these may now be replaced by virtual assistance. Theoretically, a physical keyboard may one day be nothing more than a novelty item.

But other than just giving out answers and lists, WhatHiFi adds that Alexa has the potential to be in control of many other things. While the Echo can already control things such as light bulbs, it might have the ability to control much larger smart appliances, such as smart TVs. The publication reasons that it might one day be possible to control televisions sets via voice control.

A more realistic project at this point is bringing Alexa to the vehicles. Amazon has already begun a partnership with Ford in order to do just that. Beginning this month, owners of the Focus Electric, Fusion Energi and C-MAX Energi units can start their engines, as well as lock and unlock their vehicles through Alexa. Volkswagen is also reportedly thinking of implementing the same features.

The technology of Alexa is still relatively new and yet it has already paved the way for so much more. At this rate, the virtual assistant could be implemented into almost anything. Reading recipes, giving definitions and making a schedule is only the start of something that could be much bigger.
The 7th International Conference on Traditional Chinese Medicine will be held on May 17 to 19, 2017. The said event will highlight the importance of Traditional Chinese Medicine as an alternative part of the global medical industry. Aside from this, the latest techniques in Ayurveda and Homeopathy will also be discussed. Topics to be covered under Traditional Chinese Medicine include Acupuncture, Moxibustion, Qi Gong, Tai Ji, Tui Na and Massage, Acupressure, and other alternative therapies.

Renowned speakers who will grace the occasion include Marc Halpern, co-founder of the National Ayurvedic Medical Association; Julie Rammal from George Washington University; Angela Hope-Murray, podiatrist, ostheopath and ayurvedic practitioner at Lemuel Shattack Hospital. International experts from China, Germany and other countries will also discuss some of the major breakthroughs and practical applications of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and its enormous impact among people living in the modern era.

According to Conference Series, the event is a part of a series of seminars and fora which aims to promote the use of traditional Chinese medicine as an effective alternative to different diseases. Aside from this event, the website also said that they will hold another international conference on Traditional and Alternative Medicine on Sept.14-16, 2017. This will be held in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health said that Traditional Chinese Medicine began during the Chinese ancient period. As it evolved and progressed with time, its practitioners continue to develop the use herbal medicines to foster holistic development. In the United States, Traditional Chinese Medicine has been viewed as not as an alternative but as a complementary health approach. Moreover, Traditional Chinese Medicine, with its ability to quite a number of diseases, has also been attributed as one of the leading reasons for the increase of life expectancy in China to 77 years old in 2020.
In China a superbug that is resistant to a last resort antibiotic is on the rise. A new study revealed a worrying development as a wide variety of E. coli bacteria were discovered to have developed resistance to Colistin. A second study released on Friday found the superbug is still uncommon in Chinese hospitals. The gene known as mcr-1 which has the capacity to move from one bacterium to another was found in 1 percent of Klebsiella pneumonia, a variety of E. coli bacteria. This bacteria can cause pneumonia, infections of the bloodstream and wound infections.

Lance Prince, director of the Antibiotic Resistance Action Center at George Washington University was not reassured with the development although incidence were described as rare. Prince says that even though 1 percent does not sound a large number, bring drug resistance into the equation makes the number pretty substantial.

The mcr-1 gene makes bacteria resistant to treatment with a drug called colistin. The drug is an old antibiotic that has not seen much use because of its unpleasant side effects. The newer drugs were better choices. However, microbe developing resistance to newer drugs is on the rise and colistin has taken an increasing importance in medicine.

In most countries, the use of colistin is reserved for human use and only when the drug is absolutely needed in treatment. However, In China, the antibiotic has been used in agriculture to speed growth of animals raised for meat.

In November 2015, scientists reported finding mcr-1 in China. Alarms across the world were raised and within a short span of time, researchers in other parts of the world revealed that they had looked and found the gene in their stored bacteria collections. What alarms scientists is that mcr-1 can move easily from one bacteria to another and from a family like E. coli to others such as Klebsiella pneumoniae as reported in an article by the Scientific American.

Health officials have worried that colistin-resistant bacteria might spread and will set a stage for superbug infections that would be resistant to medications. However, only a number of such cases have been detected worldwide including the United States. Rising concerns prompted the United Nations to encourage countries to cut back on the use of antibiotics and to develop new drugs.

People who are infected with drug resistant strains can be treated with current antibiotics, but doctors warn that as these bacteria become resistant to newer antibiotics, it may become impossible to treat as the superbugs are already resistant to the last resort treatment using colistin to fight off infection as reported in an article by Richmond Times-Dispatch.
The intense rift between the Philippines and China over the Scarborough Shoal has made headlines all over the world. Both countries claim that the large coral island which measure about 10 miles in width is part of their respective territories. However, in July 2016, the Philippines won its arbitration case against China in the International Criminal Court (ICC). In November 2016, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte declared Scarborough Shoal as a Marine Sanctuary because of the vast array of natural resources that can be found here.

The Scarborough Shoal can be found more than 124 nautical miles west of Luzon island. It has a triangular geography. The reef has a lagoon with a depth estimated at 9 to 13 meters. Amidst its scattered rocks and submerged reef, the South Rock is the highest land elevation.

Now known as Bajo de Masinloc, Scarborough Shoal is one of the countrys first and oldest territories where fisherfolks yield their harvest, dating back to when the Philippines was declared as an independent nation. During the countrys Commonwealth Period, Scarborough Shoal was recognized among the natural resources for its vast array of fishing banks.

According to the Institute for Maritime and Ocean Affairs (IMOA), Bajo de Masinloc maintains a strong and relevant contribution to in ensuring the sustainability of marine biodiversity not only within the West Philippine Sea, but in the entire South China Sea as well. Through the years, it has become the subject for various studies and researches conducted by local and international universities. With the development of technology, the importance and potential of the Scarborough Shoal as a marine shelter become recognized and appreciated. ,

However,Rappler reported that since the Chinese government made Scarborough Shoal as a reclamation area, it has already damaged more than 300 acres of marine and coral reefs. This costs around $ 100 M. It is also feared that a marine ecosystem has been destroyed. However, the Chinese government denied these accusations. With the rising effect of climate change against marine biodiversity, resources located here may be affected by ocean acidification as well.
The claim that threatens the future of Facebooks Oculus VR may have just gotten a lot more expensive. Yesterday, in closing statements of the legal team representing ZeniMax Media asked the jury in a Dallas courtroom to rule against the Oculus VR and grant a total of $4 billion. That is for the $2 billion in compensation and another $2 billion in punitive damages.

ZeniMax Media's Case Goes To Jury And Wants $4 Billion From Oculus

The case between ZeniMax Media and Oculus VR hinges on the claim that Oculus VR and its founder Palmer Luckey stole fundamental VR technologies from ZeniMax Media subsidiary id Software. It asserts that these contributions were fundamental to the success of the company, which was acquired by Facebook for around $3 billion in March of 2014, according to TechCrunch. If they could make it, whyd they take it? Sammi reportedly told the jury, referencing VR-related company intellectual property.

In delivering closing remarks, ZeniMax attorney named Anthony Sammi referenced findings that data had been erased from the computers of Oculus just three minutes before they were imaged for the court case. The correspondence between the Oculus CEO Brendan Iribe and Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg, which he expressed as evidence of collusion, are also gone. Sammi, furthermore insisted that the technology feeding the most significant software functions on the Oculus Rift headset shipped to early Kickstarter backers was based on code from id Software intellectual property.

The legal team that represents both Facebook and Oculus suggested that ZeniMaxs claims were sour grapes, and the effect of embarrassment for not recognizing the possible market of virtual reality, according to Polygon. Moreover, the defense referenced the findings of a forensic expert who didnt notice any evidence of the code copying in what Oculus had shipped. Also, while asserting that most of the trade secrets ZeniMaxs legal team was lauding were already publicly known and that other solution to the problems already existed.
More 80 years since it was theorized, researchers at Harvard revealed they have created the very first solid metallic hydrogen on Earth. This is considered a wonder material which can be used in many applications such as super-powerful rocket fuels. However, it looks like some scientists are not convinced with their findings.

Metallic hydrogen first theorized by Eugene Wigner and Hillard Bell Huntington in 1935. It is a type of degenerate matter and in this phase, hydrogen behaves as an electrical conductor. There are speculations of presence of metallic hydrogen in gravitationally compressed interiors of Jupiter, Saturn, and other exoplanets.

Creating Metallic Hydrogen

In a study published in the journal, Science, on Thursday, Jan. 26, Harvard scientists revealed they used an anvil fitting inside a cryostat to cool a hydrogen sample just above absolute zero. They also found a way to remove irregularities in the diamonds and turned the pressure to up to 495 billion pascals which is about 5 million times higher than sea level atmospheric pressure.

They then squeezed their hydrogen gas at high pressure and it started to accumulate to a shiny material. Prof Isaac Silvera of Harvard University revealed that it became a reflective material which they believed was solid metallic hydrogen. The material they got has a reflectivity of 90 percent, which is equivalent to that of aluminium mirror.

Doubts And Criticisms

Some experts are not convinced with their findings. Alexander Goncharov, a geophysicist at the Carnegie Institution for Science questioned their methods saying the material might not be hydrogen. Paul Loubeyre, a physicist at France's Atomic Energy Commission in Bruyeres-le-Chatel urged the researchers to redo their measurements of the pressure.

"I don't think the paper is convincing at all," Loubeyre told Nature. "If they want to be convincing, they have to redo the measurement, really measuring the evolution of pressure. Then they have to show that, in this pressure range, the alumina is not becoming metallic," he added. Meanwhile, Eugene Gregoryanz, a physicist at the University of Edinburgh shares the same opinion as Loubeyre, He described the paper on solid metallic hydrogen as "complete garbage," cited The BBC.
Google Pixel might start rolling out a more affordable model soon based on the latest insider reports. The budget model Pixel is not the only thing that consumers can look forward to as the company will reportedly add enhancements to its second-generation Pixel models to target "emerging markets".

Google Pixel Budget Phone

There is no denying that when Google announced Pixel's launch a year ago, its flagship phone attracted a lot of attention. The reviews were awesome and the performance was also impressive not to mention the cool virtual assistant and the great camera resolution. However, consumers had one huge complaint, the price is quite high for a smartphone.

To cater to this market, Google decided to create a more affordable device but they are also planning to increase the price of its next Pixel phone release by $50, but paying this price might be a great idea after all since there will be a bundle of improved features.

Google Pixel Features

Google Pixel comes with a bunch of impressive features including Google's launcher. Aside from that, there are tons of hidden features in the device. Although the phone needs some getting used to, there are still a lot of people who would love to own Google's own smartphone device.

Newest reports reveal that Google is currently testing chips from Intel and Qualcomm. The company also plans to fine tune the camera quality. Although the MP size will not increase, Google will compensate by adding extra features.

It could also be possible that the new device is going to be waterproof but it will definitely be water resistant. As expected, the budget model referred to as the Pixel 2B will not be as powerful as the more expensive model.

The release date for these devices is yet to be announced. But rumor has it that Google will launch the high-end model first followed by the cheaper Pixel 2B.
If President Donald Trump is still using his personal, unsecured Android smartphone, as reported, he is surely creating bucketsful of worry for White House communications security staff.

As CIOs and Chief Information Security Officers already know, any organization can install strong security technology into a network or a smartphone, only to be defeated if end users don't use it or follow safe cyber practices.

"The most vulnerable parts of communications are the people, and if they aren't taking precautions, problems exist," said Chris Perry, chief operating officer for Secured Communications, a provider of encrypted VPNs for mobile devices used by governments and companies.

"There is a White House communications group that does nothing but communications technology solutions for the president and his staff," Perry said Friday. "But the weakest link in any communication is the end user. You can have all kinds of end-to-end encryption, but in the end, if you aren't using that piece of equipment and related tools, you are very vulnerable. That's true in any environment, in government or the private sector."

White House officials didn't respond when asked repeatedly about Trump's reported use of his Android phone for tweets after he'd been in the White House for several days. The U.S. Secret Service referred questions on the matter to the White House.

Trump didn't turn over his Android phone when given a secure device just before his inauguration, according to the The New York Times.

Reports have indicated Trump is using an older Galaxy S3 or S4, which is "asking for a disaster," Nicholas Weaver, a computer security researcher at the Computer Science Institute, said in a blog post. "President Trump's continued use of a dangerously insecure, out-of-date Android device should cause real panic. A Galaxy S3 does not meet the security requirements of the average teenager, let alone the purported leader of the free world."

Weaver said if Trump were enticed to click on a link to a cyber exploit with his phone, the phone could become a bug that could record everything in audio or video around it and then transmit that information to an attacker. "Even a brand new, fully updated Android or iPhone is insufficient: The President of the United States is worth a great many multiples of expensive zero-day exploits."

Hackers could also learn where the phone is through GPS, which could also be an indication of where the president is located, said Jack Gold, a mobile security analyst at J. Gold Associates.

If a nation-state really wanted to attack Trump's phone or another device, it could rely on a brute force attack performed by supercomputers to break encryption on his password to gain access to files, applications and other material, Gold added.

"The working assumption should be that Trump's phone is compromised by at least one  probably multiple  hostile foreign intelligence services and is actively being exploited," Weaver added in his blog.

Some analysts have said that if Trump is merely using the Android device to send out tweets, he might not have created an internal security problem. But even then, it isn't clear that he, or someone else, has set up his Twitter account in secure ways to prevent someone from spoofing his @realDonaldTrump or @POTUS accounts and sending out false statements.

"We don't even know if the tweets are really from him," Gold said in an interview. "It's not an overblown concern, because if someone tweets 'I'm about to attack Russia' on his account, that could cause a war or a financial panic. That's why this is such a major issue. The implications are catastrophic."

The president's official account, @POTUS, already has revealed sensitive information that hackers might be able to exploit.

A hacker who uses the name WauchulaGhost found that @POTUS was secured to a Gmail address that could be guessed as belonging to a Trump aide in charge of social media. WauchulaGhost urged several White House officials in a tweet to change their emails and fix their security settings to stop a hacker from conducting a simple password reset on an account to figure out an email and try to compromise it.

Last year, Hillary Clinton's campaign chairman, John Podesta, was hacked by suspected Russian cyberspies through a spearphishing attack sent to his Gmail address. Later, his emails were stolen and then leaked publicly.

Security experts suggested that Twitter users can prevent exposure of their email addresses over Twitter by going to their account's security settings and clicking, "Require personal information to reset my password," which forces anyone trying to reset the password to enter the correct email address or phone number to continue.

Also, Twitter users can set up an option in security setting and checking "verify login requests," which secures the account with two-factor authentication. The user would then need to enter both a password and one-time code sent to a mobile phone or generated by an authenticator app.

It isn't clear whether Trump's Twitter accounts have any such protections.

"It's troubling to me to not know how well Trump is being protected or how protective he is of his profile or his whole electronic persona," Gold said in an interview.

"Trump's going to do what he is going to do," he added. "This is a man who has said he knows cyber better than anyone. I'm not sure he's an expert. I'm sure people are advising him. I'm sure they are whispering in his ear. The problem is if he's listening."

This story, "Trumps unsecure Android phone highlights common security dilemma" was originally published by Computerworld .
While new U.S. President Donald Trumps recent proclamations related to immigration have centered on his plans for a Mexican border wall and bans on Syrian refugees, the IT outsourcing industry is anticipating details on his strategy for reforming the H-1B visa program.

Trump railed against the shifting of U.S. jobs overseas during his campaign and called for raising the minimum salary for H-1B holders to $100,000 per year, from the current threshold of $60,000 per year.

A purported draft of an executive order recently published called for an investigation into the impact of such nonimmigrant visa programs on American workers and directed the Department of Homeland Security to consider ways to make the process for allocating H-1B visas more efficient and ensure that beneficiaries of the program are the best and the brightest.

[ Related: Trump eyes an H-1B visa aimed at best and brightest ]

A new bill was also announced last week by U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) that explicitly prohibits the replacement of American workers by visa holders and give foreign students who graduate from U.S. schools priority in obtaining H-1Bs.

[ Related: New senate bill seeks sweeping H-1B changes ]

Over the last two weeks, Indias top IT outsourcing providers have acknowledged the uncertainty around potential changes the H-1B program, which they use to transfer employees to work at client sites in the U.S., and said that they are prepared for the impact.

Natarajan Chandrasekaran, CEO of Indias largest IT services firm Tata Consultancy Services, said the company began taking steps more than a year ago that will help it operate in a visa-constrained regime. TCS had applied for around 14,000 visas in 2015, but only 2,000 in 2016, Chandrasekaran noted.

The chief executive of number two Infosys, which earns about 60 percent of revenues from U.S. clients, acknowledged in a press conference two weeks ago that there were likely changes coming to the H-1B program but said he was not overly concerned because the company had already increased local hiring. This is something that I have been focusing on since I started, said CEO Vishal Sikka, himself a U.S. citizen. So, we are absolutely committed to creating U.S. jobs, similarly in Australia, in Europe and other geographies where we operate in Regardless of visa policy, the right thing to do for innovation is to have a lot of rich local talent. Likewise, HCL Technologies CEO C. Vijayakumar told reporters this week that the company has already been increasing campus and entry-level hiring in the U.S. to support future growth.

Wipro CEO Abidali Z. Neemuchwala told a reporter at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, last week that potential changes to U.S. skilled temporary worker visas are just one challenge the Indian IT industry is facing. Indeed, the offshore IT services market is being disrupted by smaller and shorter deals, cloud computing options, increased automation, and intense competition. Similarly, Tech Mahindra vice chairman Vineet Nayyar said in a television interview that adapting to automation would be a bigger challenge for outsourcing providers than dealing with the new American political administration. Both executives said they were confident in the resilience of the Indian IT services industry. Regarding any forthcoming limits on temporary skill worker visas, Wipros CEO said it was partnering with U.S. schools and recruiting more local workers, and Nayeer noted that less than five percent of Tech Mahindras workforce required H-1B visas.

Given the continued lack of clarity on changes to the H-1B program, the muted response of Indias IT leaders makes sense. Everyone wants to avoid the attention of the new administration, and their stance reflects this, says Peter Bendor-Samuel, CEO of outsourcing consultancy and analyst firm Everest Group. This includes companies like IBM and Accenture which stand to benefit from the changes, but the being seen to utilize this might cause reputational damage in their client base and also make them a target for the administration. 

The likely impact of H-1B caps, restrictions, or increased fees will be an increase in landed labor costs for IT service providers. Everest Group estimates that onshore costs for H-1B dependent firms could surge as much as a 20 percent if the Senate bill proposed by Grassley and Durbin becomes the basis of visa reform. The net effect of these changes will not dramatically change the offshoring equation, says Bendor-Samuel. However, they will further level the playing field between Indian heritage and [U.S.-based] multinational providers.

To offset the prospective profit margin hits, Indian service providers will need to accelerate their adoption of robotic process automation, DevOps, and other emerging tools and processes, Bendor-Samuel adds. The hope is that the efficiencies derived from these investments in productivity will offset the increased cost.
This Week in Review

A weekly review of the best and most popular stories published in the Imperial Valley Press. Also, featured upcoming events, new movies at local theaters, the week in photos and much more.
A WATFORD health campaign group has condemned proposals to merge West Hertfordshire Health Authority with another in the county.

It was announced on Monday this week that a three month public consultation into the merger of the two health authorities into one Hertfordshire- wide health authority, will start in July.

But Mrs Jean Brett, chairman of Watford Against the Closure of Hospitals (WATCH), said she did not see the point of merging the two authorities which used to be united and called Hertfordshire Health Agency before splitting in 1996.

'It's merger madness,' said Mrs Brett.

'Haven't they learned from past mistakes? They say these mergers save money but that's rubbish. All that happens is the person at the top ends up with a much larger salary.

'Everything is merging at the moment in the business world, but the difference between health authorities and trusts is that they are dealing with human life not cans of baked beans.

'It certainly isn't good at a time when there is so much change within the health service with the Primary Care Groups and the recent hospital mergers - West Herts should be keeping an eye on them.'

A spokeswoman for West Hertfordshire Health Authority said the two authorities were at one time united and then split because it was felt it was too difficult to plan health for a population of one million people.

Since then, she said, the trend had been to set up smaller health organisations, such as primary care groups and primary care trusts, made up of GPs and nurses, which plan health for their local communities, taking over many of the health authority's traditional responsibilities and therefore making one authority for the whole county more viable.

Ms Linda Hamlyn, chief executive of West Hertfordshire Health Authority, added: 'We are already working closely with East and North Hertfordshire Health Authority as many of our plans are common across the whole of Hertfordshire.'

Mr Chris Heginbotham, chief executive of East and North Hertfordshire Health Authority, said: 'A single authority would also help us to develop closer working with other county-wide agencies, such as the police and Hertfordshire County Council.

'Both health authorities now intend to spend more time in discussion with our staff, community health councils, and other stakeholders to develop the merger proposals in more detail.'

Barrie Taylor, chief officer of health watchdog South West Herts Community Health Council, said: 'We see this as an inevitable cause of everything which is happening in the health service at the moment.

'Our main concern is how it will work. We will be seeking assurances that the merger will actually improve patient care.'
A Gibsonville man was sentenced to at least 22 years in prison after a Forsyth County jury convicted him of only one out of multiple sex offenses involving a 15-year-old girl.

Ernie Donnell Pinnix II, 43, had been on trial since last week on allegations that he sexually abused a girl from April 2013 through March 2015. He also was charged with abduction, accused of taking the girl from Mebane to South Carolina and New York without her mothers permission.

The jury of 12 people deliberated more than 10 hours, starting Wednesday afternoon, before reaching a verdict just before 11 a.m. Friday. Jurors found Pinnix guilty of statutory rape based on allegations that he had sex with the girl between Jan. 3 and Jan. 19, 2014. The jury deadlocked on two other counts of statutory rape, leading Judge Susan Bray of Forsyth Superior Court to declare a mistrial on those charges.

The jury found Pinnix not guilty of the rest of the charges, which included multiple counts of statutory rape, statutory sex offense and taking indecent liberties with a minor.

Bray sentenced Pinnix to between 22 years and 11 months, and 32 years and six months in prison. She also ordered Pinnix to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.

In closing arguments, Assistant District Attorney Pansy Glanton said Pinnix started sexually abusing the girl when she was 14. Pinnix knew the girl because he had briefly dated the girls mother and remained friends with her. He also was a friend of the girls father, who died in August 2013.

Glanton argued that Pinnix took advantage of the girl, whose parents were going through a divorce. The girl also had a troubled relationship with her mother.

Glanton and Assistant District Attorney Kia Chavious argued through testimony during the trial that the girl ran away from home in October 2014 and went to Pinnix, who took her to South Carolina and New York. At the time, the girl was in her mothers custody and did not have permission to leave with Pinnix, they said.

The girl was missing from October 2014 to March 2015, Glanton said.

Pinnixs attorneys, Paul James, Kelly Parker and Brittany Speas, argued during the trial that the girl gave inconsistent statements to authorities and had a history of lying. James said in closing arguments Wednesday that the girl lied about her mother physically abusing her.

Before sentencing, Bray told the girl that none of what happened to her was her fault. She also expressed dismay that adults charged with taking care of her, including her mother, didnt do more when she went missing. Bray pointed out that the girl had run away once before and had gone to Pinnix.

Pinnixs father, Ernie Pinnix, asked Bray for mercy for his son.

My son does not deserve to go away for the rest of his life, he said.

The girls mother asked Bray for justice.

My family has been in hell for the past four years and this defendant played a large role in that, she said. I dont know how we will be able to rebuild our lives after this is over but finding justice on one count will certainly help.
A federal lawsuit has been dismissed that blamed a companys instant noodle-soup cups for severely burning the daughter of a Forsyth County woman.

Attorneys for both sides filed a joint stipulated voluntary dismissal with prejudice on Wednesday in U.S. District Court. A settlement had previously been reached in the case.

Kimberly Buffkin filed the lawsuit in November 2013 in Forsyth Superior Court against Maruchan Inc. and its Tokyo-based parent company, Toyo Suisan Kaisha. The lawsuit alleged that Maruchans instant noodle-soup cups had a design defect that caused the cups to tip over.

The lawsuit was transferred to U.S. District Court of the Middle District of North Carolina in January 2014.

According to the lawsuit, Buffkin bought a Maruchan Instant Lunch on May 27, 2011. Her daughter, referred to as OP in court papers, was about a year old when her father, Jason A. Powell, prepared the noodles. He boiled water and poured it into the cup and OPs 1-year-old nephew tipped over the Instant Lunch. The lunch spilled onto OP, causing second-degree burns to the girls groin area, chest, shoulder and back. Buffkin said her daughter has had numerous surgeries, including reconstructive surgery.

Company officials denied the allegations in court papers and said that Powell was really at fault for ignoring the instructions about not cooking the Instant Lunch in the microwave. Company officials also said he was negligent.

Earlier this year, attorneys for Buffkin and the company notified the court system that they had reached a settlement.

Leslie Lasher, an attorney for Maruchan, could not be reached for comment Friday but said in April that the settlement was confidential. Andrew Brown, an attorney for Buffkin, did not return a message on his office phone.
Never mind the bullying tweets that unnerve allied nations and reverberate through financial markets.

Put aside for moment the disturbing confirmation hearings that have revealed not only ethical conflicts of nominees, but people who either dont understand the issues handled by the agency they will lead or have expressed open hostility toward the fundamental mission of the jobs they have been nominated to fill.

And for a moment try not to think about even the fact that every part of the U.S. intelligence infrastructure believes a foreign government interfered with the 2016 election to help one candidate win.

All those things are jaw-dropping enough and deserve a lot more attention than they are getting.

But then consider that the new president and the Republican majorities in Congress are rushing to take health care away from 30 million people by repealing the Affordable Care Act without any announced plan to replace it, only vague promises by the new president that everybody will be covered, a statement that others in power immediately tried to walk away from.

Repealing the ACA isnt just a political act. It is an assault that threatens peoples lives and the financial security of millions of families. The Congressional Budget Office reported last week that partial repeal of the law would mean 18 million people would lose health coverage in the first year and 32 million eventually.

It would also result in dramatically higher insurance premiums and an end to the wildly popular and important provisions in the ACA, the prohibition on insurance companies denying coverage to people with preexisting conditions, the end of lifetime caps on benefits, the ability for children to remain on their parents policies until they are 26, and the free physicals and other preventative care that have saved lives.

People with cancer or diabetes or a heart condition or cerebral palsy will now have virtually no chance to find decent insurance and some may wind up in a high risk pool, a proposal recently touted by House Speaker Paul Ryan, where premiums and deductibles are high and exclusions and waiting lists are common.

Republicans have responded by saying that the CBO study didnt consider any replacement for the ACA  even though they havent offered one.

But the CBO analysis was not based on hypotheticals. It was based on legislation passed by Congress in 2015 that was vetoed by President Obama. The Republicans have already tried to take health care away from 32 million people.

But now they are in control in Washington and they are trying again.

Millions of people in North Carolina should be very nervous. The Kaiser Family Foundation estimates that 27 percent of the states non-elderly population has pre-existing conditions that could lead to a decline in insurance coverage if the ACA is repealed.

That comes to 1.65 million people.

A study by the Urban Institute finds that at least a million people in the state would lose coverage almost immediately under ACA repeal.

Another popular proposal among Republicans is Health Savings Accounts, which according to a study by the Government Accounting Office is more of a tax shelter for the wealthy than a meaningful health plan. Kiplinger once called HSAs just another tax-deferred way for the wealthy to save for retirement.

And of course its hard to imagine working people putting enough aside every week to pay for cancer treatment for their children or even managing to pay for chronic health conditions like hypertension.

Allowing companies to sell coverage across state lines, another common GOP talking point, isnt going to cause insurance companies to rush to cover people with pre-existing conditions either.

Theres a reason that Republican leaders have not presented a comprehensive alternative to the ACA in the seven years since the law has been in effect. They cant come up with one.

No one can seriously argue that the woefully inadequate piecemeal approach the Republicans have floated so far to take the place of the ACA wouldnt leave millions of people without coverage, many of them in Republican states that have expanded Medicaid under the law.

Repealing the ACA, or Obamacare, was easy to promise to do on the campaign trail. It is proving much more difficult to accomplish when Congress members are now realizing how many families will be devastated by their decision and their lack of a meaningful replacement for the law.

Its not surprising that the Congress members are stammering when confronted by stories of people whose lives were literally saved by the ACA, or that data shows that millions of families will suffer if Congress follows through on its ideological promise to repeal it.

Whats more shocking is that most of them remain committed to ending the ACA anyway, in the face of the suffering it will cause and with no idea of what can possibly replace it.

Thats the scariest thing happening in Washington these days. Never mind the tweets. Real lives are hanging in the balance here.
The greatest good you can do for another is not just to share your riches but to reveal to him his own.

 Benjamin Disraeli, 19th century United Kingdom leader

It has been more than 25 years since a mentor, Liz Deal, saved me from making a bad decision.

I was in the process of starting the journey to become a certified Dale Carnegie trainer when I decided to quit.

Thats right, quit. I came up with reasons (excuses) to make it appear to be something other than what it was. The truth; I was quitting.

The process had become overwhelming (stress was building up). There was just too much to do, learn and prepare for. I made up excuses: I am too busy. Ill do it later. Ill ... any reason to fill in the blank would do.

I didnt want to fail. So, I decided to make excuses. Ive been told that an excuse is the skin of a reason stuffed with a lie. That sums it up.

Liz knew me and knew just what to do and say as I struggled.

Her response when I called to share that I would not go through with the process shocked me.

That is not an option, she said without hesitating.

Wow! I am quitting and she says it is not an option.

After that wake-up call, she continued.

Do you want to do it? she asked.

Yes, I do.

And that is when she told me to live in day-tight compartments. In other words, do one thing at a time; you dont have to do it all at once.

I took a deep breath and followed her advice. I took one day of the process at a time over three weekends. What I thought was overwhelming became manageable.

Now, 25 years later, I stand in front of a room of participants and help them realize their personal and professional objectives.

I owe a lot to Liz for not allowing me to give up. She cared, encouraged and removed all excuses.

I share this story often in my Dale Carnegie classes. I was reminded of it as I scrolled through a series of motivational messages, including one by Steve Goodier: Who rekindles your light?

Goodier shared a story of a woman who taught him a valuable lesson about getting through difficult times. She had a few ups and downs of her own. Her husband, who had difficulty finding work, needed constant support.

Well, I have been through a lot of tough times, she told Goodier. In fact, sometimes it was awfully hard for me and my husband. He couldnt always find work. Some days he would come home horribly depressed and say, Things are so bad I dont know if I can take it. And I would say to him, Well, you know, things could be worse.

She did the best she could by being there for him during the times he had rather quit.

It occurs to me that HOW she responded to her husbands pain was probably not as important as the simple fact that she was there and cared, wrote Goodier.

It is important to have someone who challenges you, supports you, listens to you and shows you a way forward. They dont give up on you, even when it is a difficult moment in time.

A young man recently experienced a similar lesson.

While helping a customer (a friend of mine) with an issue over the phone, my friend sensed something was not right. He learned that the young man had received a critical review of a book he had written. It wasnt what he expected. He was down, disappointed, defeated and uncertain of what to do next.

My friend purchased the book, read it and realized it was worth supporting. He is buying more copies to share with others. As I joined a conversation with the two of them, I could hear the surprise in the young mans voice. He was genuinely moved that two people he had never met were helping him.

Goodier shares this quote by Albert Schweitzer that sums it up well: Sometimes our light goes out but is blown into flame by another human being. Each of us owes deepest thanks to those who have rekindled this light.

Who rekindles your light?
The event: President Trump challenges the status quo in his first days on the job.

Jim Monroe: 7. The old statement along the lines of never ask how sausage is made keeps coming to mind. Getting several hundred staffers hired, getting them security clearance and then into the building and working is something that anyone who has ever gotten a new job can relate to. Image what happens to one new employee multiplied hundreds of times.

President Trumps Cabinet nominees seem to be moving along more smoothly than his predecessor who had one (Bill Richardson) drop out and another (Tim Geithner) gain approval only after paying several thousand in back taxes to 2002. Yes, he should calm his public comments on many things that seem nonsensical. Who really cares how many people were at his inauguration?

No concrete judgment should be made one week into this. Final judgment on a presi-dent's term should only be made 20 years after they have left office.

David McMahon: 0. Donald Trump promised to unite the country and bring all Ameri-cans together, yet each day he signs a new executive order that drives a nail in the coffin of national unity and forces another wedge in the chasm that divides us. He has surrounded himself with extremists who are determined to eradicate every bit of progress we have made in recent decades under both Democratic and Republican administrations. He wants to be beloved by all but repeatedly slaps the face of more than half the people of this nation, which puts him on track to be the most divisive president in recent memory.

Carroll Leggett: 3. I am not surprised by the official actions he has taken. They are in line with most expectations. I do wonder if he possesses the self-discipline required to grasp the totality of the job and to begin to act as if he is in fact the leader of the free world.

Respect is earned, and one does not earn respect when one intentionally misspeaks or is disrespectful. It is time to get over the me, me, me stuff. Where I come from (and you, too, I expect) we were taught to be modest and unassuming. If this was taught where the president was reared, he must have skipped school that day. Can you teach old dogs new tricks? Doubtful, I think.

Linda Petrou: 10. He is moving fast, but methodically, to fulfill his campaign promises. He is reaching out to individuals who have not had a say or been in the White House for years, such as labor unions, businessmen and congressmen from both parties. He is doing what he said he would do. He is adjusting to his office, his responsibilities and his new life. He is doing it his way and is a pragmatist, not an ideologue. I am happy. No, I am hopeful and thrilled by his first few days. I pray that this continues.

Don Witte: 2. Very frightening. Where is the reconciliation message? I am one of the majority who did not vote for you. Remember that if you can.

Clint Johnson: 8. He immediately started fulfilling the promises he made during the campaign on focusing on bringing back jobs to America. On the downside, he allows himself to get sidetracked on unimportant things such as who had the biggest inauguration attendance.

I thought about going, but was more concerned about the potential violence that the radicals promised, a promise they kept. I would bet that a lot of people stayed home because of that. At any rate, he is off on a good start. I just hope he can keep it up.

John Wayne Lambeth: 10.Trump has signed an overhaul energy policy. We have been dependent on other countries for too long. This will create jobs for many people, from restaurants , hotels, housing and more. Moving ahead with the border wall. In just a few days I think its a positive move.

Anne Wilson: 0. I cannot in good conscience say his name, but the new administration is a total disaster. America deserves better.

Suzanne Carroll: 3. It has only been a week, and he continues to blame the 'dishonest' media for his irresponsible comments and tweets. He was outraged by the poor turnout at his inauguration and outright lied about the number of attendees, but his press secretary explained it as 'alternative facts.' The only reason he doesn't get a 0 is because he hasn't gotten us into a war...yet.

JoAnn Dunn: 10. Immediately following his inauguration, President Trump went to work to fulfill the promises he made during the campaign. While he was working, mobs destroyed property, and misguided persons carried out demonstrations worldwide. In many of the man on the street interviews I heard, people couldnt really identify what they were protesting except Donald Trump, and, of course, the right to have an abortion.

The other point that stood out was that many said they hadnt voted. It made me proud that I am not a Democrat.

Tony Gagliardi: 8. So far, so good. He is doing what he was elected to do, and that's great. I just wish he would not give the media so much attention.

Hayes McNeill: 2. After losing the popular vote by three million, youd hope Trump would try for unity with appointments and policies appealing to the center. Instead, it was more slash-and-burn rhetoric advocating antagonistic policies most Americans op-pose.

To fixate on and fabricate crowd size is both unworthy of the office and indicative of the flaws -- tetchiness and arrogance -- that bode ill for our county. Particularly since, except for the Russians, the world saw the many millions who marched in peaceful pro-test as a plebiscite on him, as a referendum reconsidering a tainted election.

Mike Walker: 7. Trump's choices for his Cabinet are generally good, but with a question mark here and there. Similarly, the apparent redirection of foreign policy has up- and downsides, but more positive than otherwise, though his directive to pull out of the Transpacific Partnership is certainly debatable.

His executive orders to expedite the Keystone XL and Dakota Access pipelines indicate that he understands the term energy security, which his predecessor did not. Those directives, along with dropping the TPP, are also adroit political moves, as they are looked upon with favor by organized labor, which may start to question its sometimes self-destructive allegiance to the Democratic Party.

Trump should moderate, but not discontinue, his Twitter commentary. Also, his com-ments regarding Rep. John Lewis were a bit much, but then Lewis's remark about Trump being an illegitimate president was uncalled for, and had no basis in fact. However, He started it! is a playground justification, not a presidential justification.

Virginia Underhill: President Trump's inaugural message of darkness and terror, along with proven lies since labeled alternative facts by his staff, will make an intriguing preface should he re-write Mein Kampf. Skilled in self-aggrandizement, he seems impervious to the empirical truths that guide conduct expected of leaders of great nations. Continuing to hover over appointment proceedings is an inappropriate do-si-do between our president and the adversarial Russian President Vladimir Putin that no one is applauding; in fact many fear the possibility of a calamitous future due to Trump's irrational paranoia. I award a 0 to the first days' appearance and confusion.

John Harrison: 2. Frenzied is the word that comes to mind. The first taste of power is always intoxicating. But a cascade of executive orders to show strength, accommodate rightist ideology and fulfill grandiose promises will have a short life.

The tests will come from the emergence of foreign crises, isolationism, economic volatility, voter dissent and the realization that the emperor has no clothes. It will be interesting to see what 'alternative facts' are presented then to deflect blame and distract us from the real world. I give it a year.

Linda Hill: 7. President Trump is making good on his campaign promises. He has signed several executive orders and is still waiting to see whether all his appointees to Cabinet positions will be approved. His choices are all smart, accomplished people and, for the most part, non-political.

Presidents don't get a probation period like most new hires, and since he is from outside the political system, my guess is that he is going through a period of adjustment. Give him a chance. I would like to see this question asked in six months.

My hope is that he will quit bickering over petty stuff like the size of the crowds who attended the inauguration. If, as the spin doctors would have us believe, white, rural male voters (farmers and factory workers?) were the voters who pushed Trump over the top, of course the crowd was smaller. Those guys were working and probably could not take the time off to attend an inauguration. Everybody knows that farmers don't take days off.
BETH MOCHNICK, Winston-Salem

An inspiring story

Thank you for including the inspiring guest column by Dr. Mary Banks (Standing on the shoulders of Giants, Jan. 22). We have been steeped in rancor and angry rhetoric far too long, and her amazing story is truly a breath of fresh air. In fact, it is and always has been the American story for those who aspire to a successful and happy life.

Dr. Banks uplifting tale is only one of many throughout our history that shine light on the possibilities available in this great country. It is the reason so many millions have fought the odds to reach our shores. They hope for a better life, and they work hard to make it happen.

Americans are born with this great gift of opportunity. Of course, there are no guarantees. Its up to each of us to find the determination to make our lives better by seeking education that enables us to take on and win the struggles of life.

Dr. Banks began her message with an important quote, If you have an education, no one can stand in your way. Parents have the responsibility to engender a hunger for knowledge and self-respect in their children and to give them the confidence to reach for success through their own efforts.

The family is the primary building block of society, and parents are the key to its success.

******

LINDA WILSON WOODARD, Germanton

Speaking from experience

I am among the many people offended by state Sen. Joyce Krawiecs remarks about the Womens March on Washington on Jan. 21 (Krawiec sorry for lard tweet, Jan. 25).

Our daughter was one of the women who took part in the Womens March in Raleigh. She gave a great deal of thought to it before she marched. She even posted her reasons for marching on her Facebook page before she did so.

Many years ago in The Twin City Sentinel, there was a small column called Todays Chuckle. I am not sure I can still quote it exactly, but one day it said something like: Smart people speak from experience. Smarter people, from experience, dont speak. Krawiec, and all the other tweeters fluttering about, might take a lesson from that chuckle.

By the way, I am frequently offended by President Trumps vulgar language.

******

RONNIE SOCKWELL, Winston-Salem

Ignorant comments

This is in response to the ignorant and racist comments coming from Mount Airy Mayor David Rowe and Thresa Tucker (Rowes words reopen rift, Jan. 19).

The mayor should be the steadying and inclusive voice for all the citizens under his charge. He has shown himself unqualified for the position and should resign immediately.

Thresa Tucker stated that black people think theyre owed something. To her ignorance, she is correct.

Lets start with 245 years of back pay for the free brutal slave labor. Lets continue with fair housing and hiring practices. Lets go forward with justice administered by a judge and jury and not by gun-happy police who shoot down African-Americans in the street. She and all white people have benefited from the sweat of African slaves. As a so-called Christian, she has not shown the basic tenet of Christianity: You will be known as my disciple by your love for one another. They both should check their hearts.

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Q: I know that Winston-Salem is closely associated with the Moravian Church. Can you tell us more about Moravians?

Answer: In the mid-9th century, influenced by two Greek Orthodox missionaries, Cyril and Methodius, the regions of Moravia and Bohemia converted to Christianity.

The church eventually became a part of the Roman Catholic Church, but Moravians wanted to use their native language and rituals in worship. Their leader was John Hus, rector of the Prague Cathedral. He had been greatly influenced by John Wycliffe, who also influenced the Protestant Reformers.

Hus was summoned to Rome where he was accused of denying the presence of Christ in the Eucharist.

While in prison, he wrote, The Body of Christ affirming his belief in Christs real presence. Still, he was condemned and burned at the stake in 1415 AD.

A rebellion ensued, and in 1457 the Moravians constituted a new church called Unitas Fratrum (Unity of Brethren) in Kunvald, Bohemia. Eventually it became known as the Moravian Church, the first Protestant Church. Its founding was sixty years before the Lutheran Reformation.

In the 18th century, a group of Moravians migrated to Germany. A settlement called Herrnhut was established on the estate of Nicholas Von Zinzendorf.

From Germany, some Moravians moved into England; and in 1735, a few undertook a trip to Savannah, Ga.

It is interesting that John Wesley, father of Methodism, was aboard the ship. During a storm, he observed the quiet nature of the Moravians and wrote in his diary, I had long before observed the great seriousness of their behaviour. Of their humility they had given a continual proof, by performing those servile offices for the other passengers, and would receive no pay, saying, it was good for their proud hearts and their loving Saviour had done more for them.

And every day had given them occasion of showing a meekness which no injury could move. If they were struck, or thrown down, they rose again; but no complaint was found in their mouth.

There was now an opportunity of trying whether they were delivered from the Spirit of fear, as well as from that of pride, anger, and revenge. In the midst of the psalm, the sea broke over, split the main-sail in pieces, covered the ship, as if the great deep had already swallowed us up. A terrible screaming began among the English. The Germans calmly sung on. I asked one of them afterwards, Were you not afraid? He answered, I thank God, no. I asked, But were not your women and children afraid? He replied, mildly, No; our women and children are not afraid to die.

I found Wesleys account to be insightful into the nature of the Moravians.

A suggestion for readers is the Diary of the Moravian Journey probably written by a man named Brother Grube. The document can be found in Moravian Church Archives here in Winston-Salem. It gives a daily account of the journey to North Carolina.

These Moravians were dedicated to their religion, their purpose, and each other. A diary entry for Nov. 21, 1753, reads, Finally we partook of the Sacrament for the first time in North Carolina. Our hearts were deeply moved by His grace, as we sang an appropriate hymn, and our love for one another was strengthened. Then we spread our blankets, and lay peacefully down in our little church  as the cabin seemed after the service.

The Moravians founded a settlement called Bethabara and, six years later in 1759, the town of Bethania, the oldest town in Forsyth County.

Salem, or what locals refer to as Old Salem, was established in 1766.

Two events speak for the Moravians.

The first 4th of July celebration was held in Old Salem.

Presently, on that date the area is darkened with only candlelight from the windows of the houses and a rather quiet reenactment takes place for a thoughtful celebration of our countrys independence.

The Moravians did not participate in the Revolutionary War, but they offered food and medical care to both sides.

The other event is the moving Sunrise Service at Easter with people of all denominations gathering to celebrate the Risen Christ.

I asked Bishop Lane Sapp, who pastors Calvary Moravian Church, to comment on the role of the Moravian Church in Winston-Salem.

He feels that Moravians can play a role in bringing our divided culture to unity. Moravians believe in brotherhood and unity; and they say, Grow in faith, live in love, share in hope as we journey with Jesus.
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By Phyllis Bennis | ( Foreign Policy in Focus ) |  

Already Trump is super-charging U.S. militarism, gutting diplomacy, and punishing the victims of wars Washington started.

Very soon, Donald Trump is expected to sign an executive order regarding refugees and entry to the U.S. for a whole swathe of people. In effect, the edict would be aimed at banning Muslims from the United States, demonizing people from Muslim-majority countries across the Middle East and North Africa.

Its no accident that of the seven countries identified, the U.S. is bombing five (Iraq, Syria, Yemen, Libya and Somalia), has troops deployed and military bases in another (Sudan), and imposes harsh sanctions and frequent threats against the last (Iran).

These military actions all reflect policies that fuel refugee flows in the first place. In a grim irony, the order bans refugees from wars that in many cases the U.S. itself started.

The order violates international law requiring countries to provide refuge to those in desperate need, and completely reverses the long history of the U.S. claim  however often that claim is actually denied  to be a country that welcomes refugees and immigrants.

We should also note that the list of Muslim-majority countries targeted in the new regulations all happen to be countries where the Trump business empire has no holdings. Exceptions just happen to be countries like Egypt and Saudi Arabia, Muslim-majority states where Trump has major investments and business partnerships.

One might think that Egypt and Saudi Arabia, the two countries that nearly all the 9/11 hijackers came from  and which are currently known to be backing ISIS and other terrorists, in Saudi Arabias case, and facing serious terror attacks on their own soil largely in response to government repression, in Egypts  would be included in Trumps twisted analysis as potential sources of terrorism.

But no, those countries were ignored. Conflicts of interest? Nah, just a coincidence.

The order goes on to call for the Pentagon to create a safe zone in Syria and in the region to absorb local refugees, to prevent them from heading to Europe and beyond to the U.S. Yet almost inevitably, that means launching more airstrikes on the country  a recipe for more war and more refugees.

This is the opposite of what we should be doing. If were serious about taking care of refugees and ending the conditions that give rise to their plight, we must welcome far more of the 65 million people currently displaced in the world. And crucially, we must provide real support  not with more war, but by working to end the wars that create refugees in the first place.

That means demanding that our government privilege diplomacy over war. The Obama administrations successes in foreign policy  the Paris climate agreement, the moves towards normalization with Cuba, and most especially the nuclear deal with Iran  all emerged from hard-fought campaigns to choose diplomatic over military means.

And even if anyone near the top of the new administration were interested in diplomacy (though theres no evidence of that!), it just got a whole lot harder.

The soon-to-be-signed executive order creates a lot more work for federal workers, especially in the Department of Homeland Security and in the State Department. Yet the entire top echelon of the State Departments management just quit and walked out. There are conflicting stories about whether these leaders, who werent political appointees, were pushed out by new political leaders or left on their own after being presented with unacceptable demands. But either way, State is now severely understaffed in key areas such as consular services.

For those of us convinced that real internationalism should be the basis of U.S. foreign policy, the State Department has never been a full-fledged ally. U.S. diplomacy is too often deployed in the interest of military goals, U.S. corporate profits, and the undermining of governments deemed insufficiently submissive to U.S. strategic interests  and too rarely in compliance with international law.

But diplomacy and multilateralism, however flawed, are still the key alternatives to military force. Getting rid of the key civil servants who kept U.S. diplomacy functioning fits far too well into the opposite goal  privileging war over diplomacy.

The new presidents budget calls for the Pentagon to get a huge influx of new funds, beyond the $600 billion or so base budget it already has (a figure that doesnt include the funds that support the nuclear arsenal, care for veterans, or even the war on terror, which run several hundred billion dollars more). The military forces are about to get a lot bigger. And the nuclear arsenal is about to get an enormous influx of money for modernization.

Combine that with a State Department more or less incapable of doing anything because theyve lost all the people who actually know how to make diplomacy happen, and you have a perfect storm of war winning out over diplomacy.

Its kind of like the way elites have carried out neoliberal policies of privatization and de-regulation: You de-fund and under-staff the public agencies, while shifting money to now deregulated private sector entities. Then you watch while the government agencies fail, thus proving that government cant do anything nearly as well as the private sector.

Only in this case, its not the public that fails while the private succeeds. Its diplomacy that fails while the military wins out. Which means everyone loses.

Middle East expert Phyllis Bennis directs the New Internationalism project at the Institute for Policy Studies.

Via Foreign Policy in Focus

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Related video added by Juan Cole:

RT: Trump orders safe zones in Syria for refugees fleeing war
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By Juan Cole | (Informed Comment) |  

Trumps shameful halt to the admission of refugees for 6 months and his 3-month pause in allowing entry to the US from seven countries is being advertised as driven by security concerns.

The countries targeted are Syria, Iraq, Iran, Somalia, Libya, Sudan, and Yemen.

What is remarkable to me is how much this list resembles the one drawn up by the Bush administration, only in that case Bush intended to overthrow their governments and risk plunging them into instability. Six of the countries are the same, with Bush having planned an overthrow of the Lebanese government, whereas Trump substituted Yemen. It was former NATO commander Gen. Wesley Clark who revealed that Bush had these plans to subject other states to the same tender mercies that left Iraq a basket case.

The similarity in the hit list suggests a fatal inertia across administrations in policy-making. The world situation has changed since 2002. So Iraq is an ally and the US had been admitting nearly 16,000 Iraqi refugees a year with no incident. Obama showed that Iran could be dealt with through negotiations. Trump wants to ally with Putin in Syria, which is a de facto alliance with Syria. Libya is a mess but Gaddafi is gone. The rationale for targeting these countries, militarily or visa wise would be hard to defend now.

Although Bush got bogged down in Iraq and could not pursue these other overthrows, over time the US military has targeted several in turn. The US overthrew the Iraqi government and plunged it into chaos. The US is probably acting against Iran covertly. It has subjected Somalia and Yemen to drone strikes.

Bushs plans for regime-change, egged on by the Neoconservatives, faltered during his own presidency. But then in 2011 when the Arab Spring broke out, the Obama administration called for the presidents of Yemen and Syria to step down. Both are still in power, though Yemens Ali Abdullah Saleh did step down in 2012; he came back in a coup backed by the Zaydi Shiite Houthi movement. The US has been helping the Saudi government to choose targets for bombing in Sanaa, and has given strategic and logistical help to Saudi Arabia for this war effort. In Syria, President Obama called on Bashar al-Assad to step down, and the US Central Intelligence Agency ultimately used the Saudis as a pass-through agency to send money and arms to some of the revolutionary militias that grew up (some of which went rogue or sold their weapons to Daesh [ISIS, ISIL].

I dont personally think Obamas actions in Libya resembled those planned by the Bush administration. The former was faced with a genuine national uprising and there is a question about whether the carnage would have been even worse if Moammar Gaddafi had been allowed to try to stay in power.

So it seems that the actual situation is the opposite from the one advertised by Trump. These are not countries that pose a danger to the US. They are countries to which the US poses the risk, of instability and millions of displaced, when the US comes knocking.



Related video added by Juan Cole:

The Star Online:  Trump signs order limiting refugees
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IMEMC News |  

An Israeli Finance Minister, who is in charge of implementing a law to demolish Palestinian homes in the West Bank, is himself living in an unlicensed building in an illegal colonial settlement on Occupied Palestinian land  and he is just one of many Israeli officials living in illegal settlements, according to a new report.

The report, released Wednesday by the Palestine Liberation Organization, documented a number of top Israeli officials, many of whom are tasked with displacing Palestinians or demolishing their homes, living on illegally seized Palestinian land.

The Israeli Finance Minister Avi Cohen, lives in a colonial settlement outpost of 40 fixed and mobile structures, which was constructed on land stolen from Palestinian owners in the villages of Qaryout, Saweiya and Al-Luban in the Nablus region.

The settlement where Cohen lives is an expansion of the larger settlement of Eli and is known as Bilgi Maime. But the Israeli government did not approve this expansion, and Cohens part in building his home on stolen Palestinian land is in direct violation of both Israeli and international law. However, since Cohen has headed the Regional Unit on Planning and Construction, under his watch the unit has tacitly and actively allowed the expansion of settlements like Bilgi Maime on Palestinian land.

Cohen himself was in charge of issuing demolition orders against Palestinian homes, including some that were demolished in order to make way for the construction of Cohens illegal settlement outpost. He also defied an Israeli court order to dismantle the outpost, which was reiterated every year from 2001  2007.

Cohen is one of a number of Israeli officials who are either living in or contributing to illegal Israeli settlement outposts on stolen Palestinian land. During a recent investigation into corruption charges against the Yisrael Beitenu Party , the Israeli police discovered that Agriculture Minister, Uri Ariel, transferred government funds to pay for the debts of a settlement company that works in the West Bank named the Samaria Development Co.

The new report found that a fund of NIS 2.4 million was transferred to a private company from Israeli taxpayers to the executive arm of Aamnah Movement, which is active in the field of settlement construction.

This comes in the context of a new campaign of collective punishment against Palestinian residents of the neighborhood of Jabal al-Mukaber in Jerusalem, after one resident of the town ran his truck over a group of Israeli soldiers.

Meir Turgeman, deputy mayor of the occupation municipality in Jerusalem, and head of the local planning and construction committee, announced that he intends to impose collective punishment against the family members and neighbors of the deceased attacker.

The Israeli campaign also includes a resolution by the occupation Minister of interior, who ordered the seizure of 12 identity passes from members of Kanbar family (forcing these residents to move from their homes into internal displacement), and the distribution of demolition notices against 81 houses in the Al-Kanbar, Al-Jdeirh and Salaah neighborhoods, belonging to families of Al-Kabnbar, Al-Jdeirh and Salaah, under the pretext of being built without licenses.

Moreover, the campaign has also involved closing the main roads, which disturbed the movement of transportation, as well as preventing people from going to work and school, and hindered the ability to provide first aid.

Troops also invaded several agricultural and commercial stores, asking their owners to leave the areas, and finally threatened to carry out the demolition ord

Via IMEMC
JURIST Guest Columnist James G. Hodge, Jr. of The Sandra Day OConnor College of Law, Arizona State University, discusses forthcoming repeal and replace strategies regarding the Affordable Care Act (ACA), and how replacements for its provisions must focus on assuring equitable access to quality care

On his first day in office, President Donald J. Trump directed via Executive Order that federal agencies should waive, defer, grant exemptions from, or delay enforcement of provisions of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) that impose fiscal burdens. However, in an early exhibition of political restraint, President Trump and the Republican-led Congress have not yet fully repealed the ACA, despite promises to do so  and fast. It may have taken decades for multiple Presidential administrations to develop comprehensive health care reform but only one administration to effectively undo it.

To be sure, the ACA is on legal life support. The only reason that its shelf-life has been extended may be the recognition that replacing Obamacare is not so easy. Americans have developed a love-hate relationship with the ACA. They love the assurance of health coverage despite pre-existing condition, but hate that they are mandated to get covered. They love how their dependents can remain on their insurance policies until age 26, but hate how those policies premiums have risen over years. They love how the ACA extended coverage to 20 million Americans who previously lacked it, but hate that such care is subsidized by new taxes, penalties and other revenues.

Jettisoning undesirable provisions of the ACA while retaining what works is complicated. Replacement options are percolating across the aisles of Congress and throughout the states. Some proposals would initiate the repeal of the ACA in its entirety. Others seek to repair what is deemed broken without trashing the entire act. Most of the proposals provide patchwork fixes. Some present more comprehensive replacements.

Time will tell what approaches are actually taken and whether they work in the ongoing conversion of Obamacare to Trumpcare. In the wake of these reforms, however, is the fate of millions of Americans whose individual and community health is tied to efficacious policies to assure low-cost, high-option, quality health care for all. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that 18 million Americans could lose their health insurance coverage in less than a year (and nearly double that many in the decade ahead) if the ACA is repealed and not adequately replaced. To the extent that access to quality, affordable health care was the initial promise of the ACA, it may be the measuring stick for Trumpcare for years to come.



Repeal Now, Replace Later



Talk of ACAs repeal is nothing new. Since its passage in 2010, Republican members of Congress have introduced dozens of bills seeking to abolish it. The looming threat of a Presidential veto repelled such legislation. However, over years the ACAs impacts have been steadily chipped away by:

multiple judicial decisions questioning its unconstitutionality;

internal actions of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) obviating its provisions or enforcement;

Congressional funding restrictions or limits;

state-based decisions to deny citizens Medicaid coverage despite billions of dollars of federal support; and

crafty maneuvers by insurers and providers to raise insurance premiums and costs even while covering millions more than ever before.

The full impact of the ACA as originally designed is unknown, as its full provisions were never completely in force, nor will they ever be in the future. In a strategy best described by Republican Senator Susan Collins, ME, as a death spiral, President Trumps administration and Congress are working in real-time to obliterate the ACA entirely or dismantle it piece by piece, with no meaningful substitute in its stead (at least for the moment).

On January 12, 2017, former Republican Presidential rival, Senator Ted Cruz, R-TX, introduced Senate Bill 106 to repeal the ACA in its entirety. On January 23, Senator Bill Cassidy, R-LA, and Senator Collins introduced the Patient Freedom Act,, which presented 3 options for states to consider:

maintain status quo, continuing to operate under ACAs key provisions; go rogue, essentially regulating insurance markets without federal assistance; or take the money, receiving 95% of federal funding for premium tax credits and cost sharing subsidies plus the federal match for Medicaid expansion.

How or whether these reforms would work if states split evenly on the 3 options is unclear. Meanwhile, Senator Rand Paul, R-KY, introduced Senate Bill 222 on January 24 to repeal the ACA and replace it with some reforms of private health insurance. Representative Gregg Harper, R-MS, seeks to turn back the clock. His sponsored Resolution, H.R. 633, would authorize health insurers to continue offering plans similar to those issued prior to the ACAs enactment. Multiple Congressional committees promise additional proposals by the end of January.



A Smorgasbord of Quick Fix Replacements



The imminent, political death of the ACA has generated several legislative replacement options of varying degrees of scope, breadth and potential impact. None proposes to replace the ACA with equally comprehensive health care reforms. Reports suggest President Trump is working closely with HHS Secretary nominee Tom Price and Congressional leaders on legislation with the goal of insurance for everybody. This is a lofty claim, as not even the ACA managed to guarantee it.

Current replacement options include a litany of quick fixes to retain the ACAs more popular measures, remedy fiscal issues or repair existing deficiencies. These include plans to:

continue coverage of dependents through age 26 on their guardians health plans (S.Amdt.81 to S.Con.Res3);

repeal the annual fee on health insurers (H.R. 246);

return unobligated federal funds in the implementation of state health insurance exchanges (H.R. 640);

create a safe harbor for defendants in medical malpractice actions who demonstrate adherence to clinical practice guidelines (H.R. 277);

reinstate IRS allowances for expenses for over-the-counter drugs under health savings accounts and flexible spending arrangements (S.85);

prohibit federal funding for health coverage of abortions (H.R. 7); and

prohibit health insurance denials based on pre-existing conditions (H.R. 628).

While the collective viability of these patchwork approaches is questionable, some may be more popular than others. For example, preventing health insurance companies from denying applicants coverage based on their pre-existing conditions is applauded by nearly everyone, except health insurers.

Over 50% of Americans have some sort of pre-existing condition, including 27% of persons under 65 years old who are largely ineligible for Medicare. Health insurance executives have little incentive to cover these higher risk patients. For decades, they could lawfully cherry pick among available customers. Unless insuring these persons is counterbalanced with a pool of healthy persons (which was the impetus for the ACAs employer and individual mandate provisions), health insurance companies will disdain pre-existing coverage requirements.

To address this reality, more comprehensive replacement approaches include the return of the high risk pool concept originally floated in the Clinton administration. If the sickest individuals are cloistered in their own pool for specific, government-subsidized insurance, healthy persons outside the pool could obtain cheaper health coverage. It is nice idea, but flawed in practice. As the New York Times reported on January 23, states like California, Colorado and Washington that operated high risk pools in the past ran into major fiscal and other dilemmas.



Medicaid: From Expansion to Retraction



Additional replacement strategies center on the flailing Medicaid expansion program built into the ACA but bootstrapped by the US Supreme Court and resulting state refusals to participate. In NFIB v. Sebelius in 2012, the Court found that federal spending conditions tacked onto the ACAs Medicaid expansion initiative were unconstitutional. As a result, only 32 states signed up for expanded Medicaid, despite enormous federal subsidies to pay for it.

On January 24, Senator Tom Price, R-GA, suggested in his HHS Secretary confirmation hearing that every single individual ought to be able to have access to coverage via Medicaid. Yet, outright repeal of the ACA means the end of Medicaid expansion for all. In its place, multiple state governors, several Congressional members and President Trump have proposed Medicaid block grant programs. Massive lump sums would be handed to states to expand and run their Medicaid programs as they see fit.

Again, a neat idea, but messy in application. Block grants may appeal to states seeking more control, but would likely contribute to increased, widespread variations in Medicaid services and benefits. Colorados Democratic Governor John Hickenlooper suggested such block grants would force us to make impossible choices in our Medicaid program. Millions of state residents who previously qualified for ACA-supported Medicaid expansion benefits might see their coverage curtailed or denied outright. Furthermore, how long will Congress, intent on reducing federal deficits, dump hundreds of billions of dollars into state-based health programs? In 2016, Congress struggled for months to approve a mere $1 billion for Zika preparedness efforts.



The Future Under Trumpcare



President Trump may forever be known not so much for what he and his administration did, but what they undid. Crafting and passing the ACA was the product of decades-long work. It is a complicated piece of federal legislation that works to meld access to quality care with patients choices of providers while attempting to control costs. The ACA is not perfect by any stretch, but unraveling and replacing it may prove to be the greatest challenge of a new President in his first elected office.

As Professors Gostin, Hyman and Jacobson surmise in their JAMA commentary first published online in November 2016, the goal should be to ensure that all individualssick or healthy, poor or well-offreceive the care they need. Absent meaningful replacement strategies, quick, cobbled and inadequate fixes will result.

The timing underlying the emergence of Trumpcare could not be worse. Americans stand to lose access to basic health services and essential public health funding just as threats of communicable diseases like Zika, chronic conditions like Alzheimers, injuries related to guns and opiate abuse and unhealthy environments affected by global climate change are on the rise. National health care costs will likely escalate. Left by the wayside may be millions of Americans who can only dream of a time when they too had access to quality, affordable health care.

James G. Hodge, Jr., JD, LLM, is Professor of Public Health Law and Ethics, and Director, Public Health Law and Policy Program at Sandra Day OConnor College of Law, ASU. He would like to thank Sarah Wetter, JD Candidate 2017, Senior Legal Researcher, ASUs Public Health Law and Policy Program, for her research and editing assistance.

Suggested citation: James G. Hodge, Jr., ACAs Repeal, Replace, and Repair, JURIST  Academic Commentary, Jan. 20, 2017, http://jurist.org/forum/2017/01/James-Hodge-ACA.php

This article was prepared for publication by Kelly Cullen, a JURIST Assistant Editor. Please direct any questions or comments to him at commentary@jurist.org
The Minister of Security and Justice for the Netherlands resigned Friday, making him the third member of the Dutch government to resign amid a scandal involving a USD $2.1 million deal made between prosecutors and a drug trafficker. Ard van der Steur [official profile in Dutch, PDF] is a member of Prime Minister Mark Ruttes Liberal Party [party website, in Dutch], which now faces trailing poll numbers ahead of the general election in March, with some media reports [BBC report] blaming the scandal. Rutte made a statement to Dutch reporters [Twitter, video] following van der Steurs resignation, in which Rutte denied the allegations.

As the Dutch general election approaches, ethical concerns have emerged for both of the leading parties. Rutte issued a letter [text, in Dutch] to the public today on the Liberal Party website, saying the Netherlands is quite a cool country, but those who chose to act anti-social should act normal or leave. This is concerning language for some, who feel Ruttes political views are normally to the left of the opposing Party for Freedom [official website], whose leader Geert Wilders was found guilty of hate speech [JURIST report] in a Dutch court last month. The trial started [JURIST report] in October without the presence of Wilders himself. The Dutch prosecutor started an investigation [JURIST report] into the allegations in 2014 after receiving more than 6,400 complaints about the remarks made by Wilders.
[JURIST] France published a decree [text, in French] on Thursday which, as of Friday, prohibits businesses from offering unlimited soft drinks. The decree, approved in 2015 by the French Parliament [official website, in French] in an effort to reduce the nations obesity, bans the serving of unlimited beverages with added sugars or sweeteners for free or at a fixed price. While France already has a tax on soft drinks [Telegraph report], the new law is expected to further reduce health risks among adults and youth by meeting the standards of the World Health Organization. Recent studies [text, PDF] have revealed that about half of French adults are overweight and 15.3 percent of adults qualify as obese. While Frances obesity rate may be steadily rising, the nation still lies under the EU average obesity rate of 15.9 percent.

Other areas and organizations have linked sugary drinks and the obesity epidemic. In June 2014 New Yorks highest court ruled [JURIST report] that the New York City Board of Health exceeded its power as a regulatory authority by banning the serving of large portions of sugary drinks. In May that same year the Appropriations Committee of the California State Senate [official websites] passed [JURIST report] a measure requiring distributors of bottled or canned sugary drinks to fix warning labels to the beverage container. In May of of last year, a judge for the US District Court for the Northern District of California [official website] rejected [JURIST report] an attempt to block a San Francisco law that requires health warning labels on ads for sugary drinks.
The Supreme Court of India [official website] on Friday rejected a public interest litigation seeking an all-India ban on cow slaughter. The order sought a total ban on the slaughter of all cattle including calves or a writ of mandamus ordering the enactment of an uniform policy for banning the slaughtering and preservation of cattle. The court stated [India.com report] it will not interfere with state laws on the killing of cattle. The court also noted that there are already laws prohibiting the illegal interstate transportation of cattle.

The issue of cow slaughtering has been a major issue in India. In August of last year, approximately 36 beef dealers associations across Maharashtra filed a petition in the top court challenging the ban on cow slaughter [India.com report]. The petitioners in the case reasoning with the court that cattle after the age of 16 are too old for other activities and therefore should be permitted to be put to slaughter. Earlier that same year, the state government banned the slaughtering of bulls, bullocks and cows through an amendment to the Maharashtra Animal Preservation Act [text]. In May the Bombay High Court [official website] upheld that provision.
Photo Credit: Shutterstock.com

Surrounded by mountains and numerous topographical features resulting from a turbulent geological past, France's Roussillon wine region is cradled in a massive amphitheater-like bowl nestled in the South of France. The unique area sits between Spain and narrow valleys spidering outward among the Pyrenees and Corbieres Mountains to the Mediterranean Sea.

Distinct micro climates, many of which have earned their own AOP certification, receive more than 320 days of sunshine per year balanced by heavy autumn rains. Combine this with soils defined by clay, limestone, schist, and gravel and you get the perfect array of terroirs seemingly custom made for the more than 23 different Roussillon grape varieties to reach their optimal potential.

Photo Credit: Wines of Roussillon

The best part is when winemakers get their hands on the juice crafting a bevy of elegant wines. Capitalizing on this unique patchwork of micro-terroirs, Roussillon's small community of 2,200 winemaker families, 25 cooperative cellars, and 345 private wineries produce everything from dry still wines and Vins Doux Naturels (Fortified Sweet Wines) to the classic dry reds & roses representing 87 percent of the regions exports.

Apparently, many of us are appreciating this value coming from a diversity of terroirs, low-yielding vines, and strictly adhered-to organic viticulture. The Roussillon's top quality bold reds have experienced a whopping 177 percent increase in export volume to the USA since 2010.

Photo Credit: Steve Mirsky

Domaine La Tour Vieille, Collioure Rouge La Pinede 2014

Vineyards producing the grapes in this 75 percent black Grenache 25 percent Carignan blend are situated on slopes in Pyrenees foothills just as they plunge towards the Mediterranean Sea. Manual harvesting and the treading of grapes that Domaine La Tour Vieille sources noticeably impacts this velvety supple vintage. Entirely aged in concrete vats and bottled following harvesting in June, you get a rich cinnamon and plum on the mouth feel while black currant and cloves burst forth on the palate. Powerful tannins and minerality partner up just right delivering a sharp spicy kick to the back of the throat spreading out across the mouth defining an intense character. Pairs wonderfully with fish dishes but also promises to cellar well and evolve in boldness & structure over the coming years.

Photo Credit: Steve Mirsky

Chateau Saint Roch, Maury Sec 2014

It's a common misconception to automatically associate fortified sweet wines with the Maury appellation. The truth is that dry reds full of character like this Chateau Saint-Roch cuvee Kerbuccio are just as common. Black schist and marl soils set up an ideal growing substrate for this 60 percent Grenache Noir, 20 percent Syrah, and 20 percent Mourvedre blend made with manually harvested grapes. 30 percent of the wine is aged in 500 litre barrels for six to nine months while the rest is aged in full concrete vats. Smoky on the nose, a deep dark rich berry strongly reveals dark chocolate and tobacco on the palate. Bracing tannins give it well defined structure deeply penetrating to the core of the mouth feel while an electrifying astringency showcases the more finely tuned aspects of this bolder wine.

Photo Credit: Steve Mirsky

M. Chapoutier- Domaine de Bila-Haut, Cotes du Roussillon Villages LEsquerda 2013

In Catalan, LEsquerda means fault in the rock and as is the case with this Cotes du Roussillon Village, takes you to the core of Roussillons granitic soils by simply taking a sip. Vineyards in plateaus and hills 350 meters above sea level fueled by granite sand limestone soils yield a unique tasting experience with this Syrah, Grenache, Carignan blend with 10 percent aged in oak while the other 90 percent in concrete tanks. Astringency out front displays chocolate and complex berry while its multi-layered complexity makes it pair well with a wide variety of cooking styles and ingredients like salt, char, roasted vegetables, and cheeses. Consistent across the palate, pairing with foods empowers and accentuates many ingredients like a magical gravy creating a delightfully well rounded flavor experience.

Photo Credit: Steve Mirsky

Hecht & Bannier, Cotes du Roussillon Villages 2011

Hecht & Bannier owners Gregory and Francois personally visit appellations each year testing out wines for their blends, ultimately selecting grapes from both cooperatives and individual highly esteemed Domaines. Not being tied by contract to any producer gives them the freedom to source from terriors that best suit their winemaking objectives including certified organic when possible.

This mightily diverse Cotes du Roussillon blend of Grenache, Syrah, Carignan, Mourvedre, and Lledoner Pelut is shaped by a three-way aging process of 30 percent in concrete vats, 40 percent in demi-muid (500 liter barrels), and 30 percent in oak barrels. With anintense ruby hue, this wine exhibits a dense mouth feel with tannins balancing a black berry fruity spiciness. A dark presence permeates the overall flavor experience with spicy grape, chocolate, and tobacco notes that linger all the way to the finish.
Indian army is the worlds third largest military forces. Its the pride of our nation. Our elite counter terrorism force, The National Security Guard (NSG) made its debut of 26th January, 2017. Republic day Parade which started with four MI-17 helicopters flying with the national flag above the Rajpath.

Here are some rare facts about our prestigious army:

1. In the Indo-Pakistan war of 1971 about 93000 soldiers and officials of the Pakistan army surrendered.

2. There is an out-station base in Tajikistan and our Indian Air Force is seeking another in Afghanistan.

3. The biggest civilian rescue operation in the world, the operation Rahat (2013) was carried out by the Indian Air force.

4. In the Indian defense forces there is no provision of recruitment based on religion, caste or creed.

5. The Eshimala Naval Academy in Kerala is the largest of its kind in Asia.

6. Bally, bridge which is the highest bridge in the world located in the Ladakh Valley is constructed by Indian Army.

7. The Indian army has a cavalry regiment and there are only 3 such regiments in the world.

8. Siachen Glacier is the highest battlefield in the world and is controlled by Indian Army.

9. The Indian army has about 53 cantonments and 9 army bases, spread across India.

Why peacock is chosen as the national bird of India?

Ever wondered what started the life on earth?

Do You Know Why Flowers Smell?
LINCOLN  Nebraska would close its juvenile detention centers in Kearney and Geneva with the goal of directing the cost savings to more effective treatment options under a bill introduced Wednesday in the state Legislature.

Omaha Sen. Brad Ashford, chairman of the Judiciary Committee, called the centers outdated and ineffective during a news conference at the State Capitol. Community-based programs that provide counseling and treatment to abused and neglected youth before they offend have been shown to reduce violence and save tax dollars, he said.

We need to stop punishing our children and transform our juvenile justice system, he said.

The ambitious proposal to reform juvenile justice would close the Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Centers in Kearney and Geneva by 2015, and would spend the $20 million budgeted for the centers on developing community-based treatment services. The centers serve about 500 juvenile offenders annually and they employ about 100 workers, Ashford said.

Some of the staff members would be given employment opportunities with the state Department of Correctional Services, Ashford said, although he wasnt able to provide specifics about how such transfers would work.

Officials with state Department of Health and Human Services, which manages the centers, declined comment Wednesday, saying they had not yet read the legislation.

Legislative Bill 561 would dissolve the Office of Juvenile Services and create an Office of Juvenile Assistance that would be overseen by the judicial branch. The new office would coordinate juvenile probation and services related to diversion and violence prevention. Programs would be regularly evaluated to keep what worked and jettison what didnt, Ashford said.

The bill also would create a community-based juvenile services aid program funded by a $10 million state appropriation. In part, the goal would be to create alternatives for juveniles currently made wards of the state to receive treatment.

Juveniles who are charged as adults would continue to be dealt with in the adult prison system and those who represent threats to public safety would be detained in county juvenile facilities, Ashford said. But the majority of juveniles currently housed at the Kearney and Geneva centers are nonviolent offenders, he said.

Research has shown seven out of 10 juveniles in the justice system have a major mental illness that is either untreated or inadequately addressed.

Standing in support of the reform effort Wednesday were Sen. Kathy Campbell of Lincoln, chairwoman of the Health and Human Services Committee, Sen. Amanda McGill of Lincoln and Sen. Bob Krist of Omaha.

If we dont spend money on the front side, Krist said, were going to have a bigger bill on the back side.

McGill said she introduced a bill Wednesday that would require mental health screenings for Nebraska children at the same time they receive school physicals.
Ken Leung, feng shui master and Chinese metaphysist will be will be celebrating Chinese New Year on Jan. 28 when the Year of the Rooster begins.
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17 Wackiest water vessels of the world found



When it comes to sea vessels, you can't get much wackier than a boat that appears to be sinking. In 2007 French designer Julien Berthier chopped a regular yacht in half, sealed it with fibreglass, attached a twin electric motor to it, called it Love Love - then travelled the world. Needless to say, he attracted quite a bit of attention from coastguards along the way. But he does have some close contenders in the crazy-stakes. For instance, there's Swedish shipmaker Christian Bohlin's duck-shaped boat, which he built in 2011. It's wacky on the outside, but has mod cons on the inside - two sleeping cots, a kitchenette and a sauna. Here are 17 world's wackiest water vessels revealed. Read More...


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SLB slapped for Padmavati in Jaipur, B-town demands action



The film fraternity has expressed shock and outrage at the vicious assault on Sanjay Leela Bhansali on the sets of his film Padmavati in Jaipur on Friday. The filmmaker was slapped and his hair was pulled by protesters who alleged that the film distorts history. Members of the Rajput Karni Sena stormed the film's sets at the historic Jaigarh Fort and assaulted Mr Bhansali, filming the incident on their mobile phone. They also vandalised equipment.



Police said that five people, who were detained for assaulting Mr Bhansali and vandalising the film set, were released today after no complaint was registered.



Padmavati, a historical drama, is based on the story of Queen Padmini, who famously refused to submit to Emperor Alauddin Khilji when he arrived at the Chittorgarh fort with his army. The queen killed herself along with scores of other women before he stormed the fort. Read More...


The Ronan Collins Showband Show Reeling In the Showband Years has been a smash hit for the past 7 years, and we are delighted to say it returns once again to The Watergate Theatre on Thursday, February 2. Tickets are now on sale at 056 776 1674 and www.watergatetheatre.ie

It was a complete sell out last year right around the country and booking will be heavy, so get your tickets fast!

And we think this could be the very best line up yet!

RTEs Ronan Collins is Host and Compare.

Red Hurley A living Legend of showbiz for the past 40 years will be part of it.

His great, big soaring voice has captivated audiences since he hit the stage With The Nevada Showband. Still a major force in Irish showbiz. Hear Love is all and many more of his greatest hits.

Gina from The Champions. Quite simply the biggest female vocalist of the Showband era.

Her smash hit songs will all be included.

Ronan Collins sings his renowned tributes to The Great Joe Dolan and Dickie Rock and much more!

Gregory from The Cadets. Gregory has been living in Canada for many years now and has had a great musical career there. He is delighted to be coming home for this tour. A great character, and a very funny man. His version of The Laughing Policeman brings the house down.

Also his smash hit More Than Yesterday is played on radio all the time
A farmer who has given a lifetime of service to the Irish Farmers' Association locally and nationally was recognised by his peers at Saturday night's IFA dinner dance where those who walked to Dublin in 1966 were feted, writes Sean Keane.

Paddy Delaney from Acragar, Ballyragget and attached to the Freshford branch of the IFA was a forceful debater and I remember many IFA County Executive meetings where he could cut through rhetoric to get to the kernel of whatever issue was being discussed.

He was vice chairman when the equally great, John Carroll of Gowran was chairman. He never went to serve as chairman as he was elected on to the board of Avonmore at the time and felt there would be a conflict of interest if he was to assume the post.

He played a key role in the IFA's national animal health committee and was the first chairman of the Kilkrnny Farm Relief Service.

He also took part in the walk of 1966 to Dublin where farmers sat on the steps outside the Department of Agriculture offices but he didn't go as far as Dublin.

He received a rapturous reception when he was called up to receive his award from Taoiseach, Enda Kenny; IFA president, Joe Healy and Kilkenny IFA chairman, Johnny Bambrick.

FOGRA - MC Frank Grace did a great job throughout the evening and ensured things moved along while giving everyone an adequate amount of time in the limelight.
(Adds background on Turner, Zhao, Citadel Securities)

By Lawrence Delevingne

NEW YORK, Jan 27 (Reuters) - Kevin Turner has departed Ken Griffin's Citadel LLC less than a year after he joined as chief executive officer of the firm's market-making division, a spokesman said on Friday.

Longtime firm executive Peng Zhao was named to replace Turner as CEO of Citadel Securities LLC. Zhao joined Citadel in 2006 and rose to global head of market-making at Citadel Securities. In mid-2016 he became vice chairman and chief scientist of the overall firm.

Turner joined Chicago-based Citadel in July after more than a decade at Microsoft Corp . At the time, Griffin cited Turner's experience in building and managing large, complex businesses as a reason to bring him on board.

The reason for Turner's departure was unclear.

In statements on Friday, Griffin and Turner thanked one another.

Jamil Nazarali remains head of execution services and Paul Hamill remains global head of fixed income, currencies and commodities at Citadel Securities.

Citadel executed approximately 35 percent of all U.S.-listed shares traded on behalf of retail investors as of the first quarter of 2016, according to its website.

Citadel Securities reached a $22.6 million settlement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission earlier this month related to charges that it misled customers about the way it priced trades. The activity at issue took place between 2007 and 2010, before Turner joined the firm. (Reporting by Lawrence Delevingne and John McCrank; Editing by Lauren Tara LaCapra and Leslie Adler)
Newshub reports:

Prime Minister Bill English will go to a reggae concert to celebrate Waitangi Day.

Newshub can reveal Mr English will attend the concert headed by reggae greats Black Slate from the United Kingdom and New Zealands Katchafire at the free concert at West Aucklands Hoani Waititi marae.
Stuff reports:

Wellington Mayor Justin Lester is shaken but unhurt after a truck ploughed into a council car head-on. Lester was being driven by his chief-of-staff and former Wellingtonian editor Joseph Romanos on South Makara Rd when a truck crossed the centre-line and slammed into them on a sunny Friday afternoon. Lester said all people involved were shaken but unhurt, though the crumpled electric car  with what appears to be a busted front axle, shattered windshield and wayward bumper, would likely be written-off. The mayor was returning to Wellington City after speaking at a United Nations Holocaust Remembrance Day at Makara Cemetery. [Romanos] was driving us back into town through Karori when a big truck crossed the centre-line. It came heading straight for us  couldnt stop  and hit us.

Very pleased Justin and Joseph are unharmed.

South Makara Road is one I know well and is quite dangerous. Ive had one near miss myself years ago when a car towing a boat came over the centre line and we got pushed to within a couple of cms of going over the cliff. Justin and Joseph are fortunate to be alive  there are many sections on that road where a collision would push you over.

Without prejudging guilt, Im appalled that a truck would be driving along there at anything but a very modest speed. There are some roads you can drive at the limit. This is not one of them. I normally drive it very slowly.

Again very pleased the accident did not turn out worse.

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Stuff reports:

Donald Trumps administration plans to start vetting would-be immigrants and visitors to the United States based partly on their opinions and ideology.

His proposed ban on Muslims was abhorrent and awful. What he has now proposed is more reasonable.

The draft order instructs the US government to screen visa applicants for their ideologies.

In order to protect Americans, we must ensure that those admitted to this country do not bear hostile attitudes toward our country and its founding principles, or do not support the Constitution, the draft order reads.

The order says the United States should screen visa applicants to block access to those who would place violent religious edicts over American law and those who engage in acts of bigotry or hatred including honour killings, violence against women, and persecution on the basis of religion, race, gender and sexual orientation, a description that human rights groups say also appears to be geared toward Muslims, without naming Islam explicitly.
Mike Yardley writes:

There is something nauseously disturbing about the far lefts duplicitous affection for the voice of democracy and free expression. They only honour the central tenets of democratic expression when it falls into line with their ideological viewpoint, suits their cause or the vote in question favourably goes their way. Belying their professed belief in diversity, tolerance and freedom of thought, is the fevered liberal uprising against the 45th US President. Their cloth-capped refusal to accept the legitimacy of his victory crudely illustrates how nakedly self-serving and hypocritical their adherence to democratic values really are.

I wanted Trump to lose. But I accept he won and protesting against a democratic election outcome is a very bad idea in my opinion. Sure once he actually makes decisions, then protest against them all you want. But a protest against an actual election outcome (and that is what they were, despite the spin) is counter-productive. It will make his supporters even more inclined to back him.

But far from being a genuine grassroots outpouring of public anxiety at the inauguration of Donald Trump, the events Facebook attendance list read like a roll call of the usual rent-a-crowd suspects and oh-so-familiar activists from the Green and Labour parties. Ditto, for the Auckland and Wellington events. Designed to exhibit solidarity with the womens march in Washington DC, it is equally risible how blatantly agenda-driven that demonstration was too.  Madonna shared her desire to blow up the White House, Miley Cyrus spouted some indecipherable twaddle about gender empowerment, in between twerking manoeuvres, while Scarlett Johansson got all worked up about Trumps Era of Tyranny. The over-heated rhetoric matched the hysteria that seems to have gripped the uber-liberal wing of the Democratic Party, prompting 60 House Democrats to spit the dummy like sore losers and boycott the inauguration. Their two-fingered salute to the democratic process and the Office of President was feckless. But it will appeal to the hyper-ventilating battalion of Trump haters who choose to wallow in their vast collective vat of self-imposed victimhood. What a pity the protestors, the Hollywood darlings and the no-show Democrats representatives didnt take a leaf out of Hillary Clintons book, who exhibited grace, grit and dignity when attending the presidential inauguration out of respect for the democratic process. Ditto for President Obama, whose political record was mixed, but will go down in history as one of the most likable and decent men ever to lead his country.

The irony is that everyone thought it would be Trump and his supporters who would refuse to accept the outcome of the election.

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Shenandoah, IA (51601)

Today

Rain and snow will end this morning becoming mostly sunny this afternoon. High near 55F. Winds WSW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 100%..

Tonight

Clear to partly cloudy. Low 38F. Winds SSW at 10 to 20 mph.
Seven additional suspected sexual assault reports involving Korean tourists have been reported in Taiwan, a foreign ministry official said Wednesday.



The seven cases involving eight women were reported to the Korean Mission in Taipei during Jan. 16-18, days after two Korean tourists were allegedly sexually assaulted by a taxi driver in the Taiwanese capital, according to a ministry official.



The taxi driver, identified only by his surname Chan, is suspected of first rendering the women unconscious with a drugged soft drink then assaulting them. A blood test confirmed that the victims had sleep-inducing drugs in their blood.



Taiwanese police have detained him as he partially admitted to the assaults. He is reported to have said he only meant to touch them.



The additional victims were said to have used the same taxi service for foreign tourists and lost consciousness inside the cab after drinking a beverage given to them by their driver, the source said.



"All those victims do not remember what happened to them while they were unconscious," the source said. "They, however, did not report any financial loss."



Of the eight victims, seven traveled in Taiwan last year, while the last one stayed there in January when the incident happened, the source said. Local authorities have launched a probe into the additional cases.



It has not been confirmed whether they used the cab driven by the same driver that was reported in the first case that triggered the investigation.



The ministry official said that Taiwanese authorities promised to let the Korean government know the results of its investigation as soon as they have more complete details. (Yonhap)




A desire to help people find their success and a strong entrepreneurial vision helped Patti Penny create a lasting legacy. Her contributions and her commitment to the area were celebrated on Friday night. The Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce awarded Penny the 2017 Springfieldian award.

The surprise announcement came near the end of the Chambers Annual Meeting, its largest annual event, at University Plaza Hotel & Convention Center.

The Springfieldian is the Chambers most coveted honor, given each year to an individual who exemplifies outstanding community service, excellence in his or her field and dedication to improving the quality of life for Springfield and its citizens.

Pennys desire to help people succeed in their work led to her founding Penmac Staffing Services in January 1988. The company has grown from one office in Springfield to more than 31 offices in nine states, providing employment, education and training opportunities to more than 17,000 associates each year.

In 2010, the Penny family transferred ownership of Penmac to its employees through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan. In January 2012, Penny stepped down as chief executive officer and now serves as chairwoman of the board.

In addition to her work with her own company, Penny has been highly involved in the community. She offers her time and support to countless women entrepreneurs and business leaders. She is a member of the Board of Directors for Council of Churches of the Ozarks and helped create the Suit Yourself boutique.

Penny also is a member of the Maple Park Cemetery and led the Voices from the Past fundraiser, which raised money for the cemeterys historic gazebo restoration project.

Recognition is nothing new for this years Springfieldian. She received the 2010 Lifetime Achievement Award from the Stevie Awards for Women in Business and the 2009 Lifetime Achievement Award from the Springfield Business Journal. In 2009, she received an Honorary Doctorate in Public Affairs from Missouri State University.
The reality of Donald Trumps hardline stance on immigration came into force last night when he ordered a four-month ban on all refugees entering the US.

The President also singled out refugees from Syria as barred from entering the country indefinitely, or until he himself decides they are allowed in.

No visas will be issued to immigrants from seven mainly-Muslim nations including Syria, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen for 90 days.



Im establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America. Dont want them here, Trump said earlier on Friday at the Pentagon.

We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people, he said.

Trump claimed the move would keep America safer, despite evidence which shows none of the countries on the list have been the source of terror attacks on US soil since 9/11.

Having given no notice of the ban, it caused chaos for thousands of Arab-American families who already had family members en route to visit.

That Trump chose Holocaust Memorial Day to make the announcement was all the more upsetting for many Americans.

Malala Yousafzai, the youngest ever recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, said in a statement: I am heartbroken that today President Trump is closing the door on children, mothers and father fleeing violence and war.

I am heartbroken that Syrian refugee children, who have suffered through six years of war by no fault of their own, are singled out for discrimination.

Civil rights groups have condemned the order as harmful and discriminatory.

Extreme vetting is just a euphemism for discriminating against Muslims, American Civil Liberties Union Executive Director Anthony Romero said in a statement.

The order temporarily suspends the United States main refugee programme and halts visas being issued to citizens of several predominantly Muslim countries, including Iraq.

It is expected to affect two programs U.S. lawmakers created a few years after the 2003 invasion of Iraq to help the tens of thousands of Iraqis who risked their lives helping Americans.

Trump says the order is necessary to prevent Islamist militants from coming to the United States posing as refugees, but refugee advocacy groups say the lengthy screening of applicants by multiple U.S. agencies makes this fear unfounded.

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An orphan, who had no one to take care of her, 16-year-old Janet (not real name) happily agreed to leave her hometown in Akwa Ibom State to work as a housemaid for the family of Mrs. Perpectual Eze in Lagos.

But barely three months after she started living with the family, who promised her care, boarding and feeding in exchange for her domestic work, she had allegedly been raped by the man of the house, Mr. Afrobet Eze, three times.

The girl was in tears as she explained in Pidgin English how she was raped by her uncle, and then tortured by his wife, who verbally abused her as a useless girl who will never amount to anything.



She said, The first time was on a Tuesday of last week (January 10). My aunty (Mrs. Eze) went to the market that morning. Electricity came on and their children and I rushed to the sitting room to watch a movie.

But while we were watching a movie, the children slept off and my uncle came down from the room and asked me what I was doing. I told him I was not doing anything. He asked where my aunty was and I told him she went to the market.

He then came to sit beside me and asked Do you love me? I did not understand what he meant.

So, I said, uncle what do you mean? He asked how old I was and I lied that I did not know my age. He asked again if I loved him and I said I did not understand.

I had his daughter on my lap at the time and she was sleeping. I then stood up from the chair to go and sit in the balcony. He came to meet me again and asked if I loved him.

I left the balcony again and he was following me around the house. I started crying when he wont stop following me around.

Then, I went to my room and he said, You think you are strong abi? He left me alone. When my aunty came back from the market and found me crying, she asked what was wrong but I was afraid to tell her.

The next day, I bathed the children and prepared them for school. My aunty went to her shop and I was the only one at home with uncle.

He was upstairs while I was downstairs washing clothes, plates. I was also trying to cut the grass in the compound.

Janet said when she was done with her chores, she went to bathe

.

According to her, she tied a towel around herself once she was done in the bathroom and entered her room.

She said she closed the door but it suddenly swung open and she was suddenly facing her uncle who immediately grabbed her towel.

Janet said, When he started pulling my towel, I began to shout because I knew some people live beside our compound.

I thought somebody would hear.

I was begging him to leave me alone. But he said, You think you are wise abi? When he noticed that I did not stop screaming, he left the towel and left the room. I quickly dressed up.

He then called me to come and pick his phone to go and charge it in our neighbours apartment. I did as he asked and he went out too. About one hour after, he came back and told me to go and bring the phone.

When I came back with the phone, I met him with a wire and knife and he said if I did not do what he wanted, he would kill me right there and bury me. He said if his wife asked where I was, he would say I had run away. I ran inside my room and he ran after me. That was the day he first forced himself on me.

I cried till he was done and continued crying till his children came back from school. When the wife came back from work and asked me why I was crying again, I did not know what to tell her. I was afraid.

Janet said few days after that, her aunty went on a journey to the East and around 11pm that day, armed with the same wire and knife, uncle forced himself on her again.

I begged him. I told him he wanted to kill me but he said I would not die, the girl said.

But Mr. Eze was not done.

The day his wife travelled to Cameroon to buy goods, Janet said uncle again raped her.

Janet told Saturday PUNCH, That day, aunty took her children and I to her sisters house to stay there for the period she would be away. But the sister later said she wanted to travel to the village. We went back to the house.

That same day, my uncle started the same thing again and he raped me. I told him that day that I would tell my aunty when she came back. But he said he would kill me if I did and nothing would happen.

When her aunty came back from her journey, Janet could not summon the courage to tell the woman about her husbands actions.

But the man who feared that the girl could spill the beans, decided to pre-empt her by telling his wife the opposite of what happened.

My aunty called me and said, I know what you did to my husband. I dont know what uncle told her but she said I forced myself on her husband, the girl said.

She told our correspondent that the following day, Mrs. Eze called her sister and both of them put her in the middle to question her.

According to her, the woman took a knife while her sister wielded a small pestle. They beat her as they pestered her to confess her sins, the girl said.

She said even though she was screaming while the torture lasted, her uncle who was upstairs at the time ignored them.

Janet said, I shouted to uncle to come and help me but she told me to shut up. My aunty went out and carried a keg of water which she poured on me.

In the night, she woke me up and beat me again.

My aunty kicked me in the tummy. When some neighbours started asking why I was shouting so much, the husband came down from upstairs. I then used the opportunity to run out of the house.

Janets aunty, Regina, a trader, who brought her to Lagos said she thought bringing the girl to the Ezes was an act of mercy.

She said every time she saw Janet in the village, it broke her heart.

Then, one day, she heard Mrs. Eze, a customer of hers talking about getting a housemaid and thought Janet would fit in.

Regina said, Janets father is my uncle. Both the father and mother died few years ago and she has been suffering ever since.

She was living with one of his mothers brothers in the village but the young man was not helping her at all.

I thought if she came to Lagos, at least she would have a roof over her head.

Now, I regret it because I believe every single thing she said about that family. Blessing never lies.

But Mr. Eze insisted all the girl told were lies.

He said, The only reason my wife beat her was because she wanted to run away. She stole a phone and some jewellery. That is why she concocted all these lies.

I dont know where she is from and I dont even know her age.

My wife is the one who brought her home.

It is true my wife went to Cameroon at a time.

I beat her that day only because she took my children to play outside our compound.

I did not rape her that day or on any other day.

Regina took the girl to the Esther Child Rights Foundation, which has since reported the matter to the police at the police division along the LASU-Iyana Iba Road.

But the man has yet to be arrested.

Executive Director of the Esther Child Rights Foundation, Esther Ogwu, said she had taken the girl for treatment and testing at the Mirabel, Lagos States sexual assault referral centre in Ikeja.

It is unfortunate that we hear of this kind of thing every day and it is heart-breaking that some men have refused to rein in the beasts in them.

This is a case we will continue to follow up but more importantly, the girl needs a home where she can grow up to overcome the trauma of what has happened to her, Ogwu said.

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This article appears in the January 27, 2017 issue of Executive Intelligence Review.

America First, or a Common Destiny for the Future of Mankind?

by Helga Zepp-LaRouche, chairwoman of the German political party Civil Rights Movement Solidarity (BuSo)

[Print version of this article]

Jan. 21President Donald Trumps inaugural address contained a mixture of interesting promises, reminiscences of earlier periods of American history, impractical proclamations, and what is unfortunately the all-too-common notion in the United Statesthat there is no real world beyond the American continent, which he expressed in the slogan America First! It will become apparent over the next days and weeks how he intends to implement his pledge to massively boost the economy, and how foreign relations, especially with Russia and China, will take shape.

C-Span screen capture

Russian Prime Minister Dimitry Medvedev commented Jan. 19 that Obamas biggest foreign policy mistake was to have brought relations with Russia down to zero, and that his reckless policy of interference in the internal affairs of other countries, such as Iraq, Ukraine, and Syria, had cost thousands of human lives. If Trump abides by his promises, he will correct this error. While the Obama Administration rejected Russias invitation to participate in the Syrian peace talks in Astana, Kazakhstan, Trumps team has signaled its willingness to take part in this process, which began Jan. 23.

On the same day that Trump took office, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, speaking at a ministerial meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, stressed the absolute necessity of creating a truly universal anti-terror coalition, as proposed by President Putin at the UN General Assembly in 2015. The unprecedented increase in terrorist activity is the greatest threat to global security, he said. In this fight a great deal depends upon the West, but especially the U.S. administration. For his part, Trump emphasized his intent to go after radical Islamic terroran intention which is evident in his choices of many cabinet members and advisors.

If you look at the European commentaries on Trumps inaugural address, it is obvious that many representatives of the mainstream mediaand many politiciansconsider the enemy to be not ISIS, but Trump. German journalist Roland Nelles, for example, is typical of the Fourth Estate, which uses the instruments of NATOs black propaganda to depict snow as black and to blame the sufferings of the peoples of Southwest Asia not on Zbigniew Brzezinskis Islamic card against (originally) the Soviet Union, but on Putin and Russia. This caste of court scribblers will lose influence if Russian-American cooperation creates facts on the ground that such post-truth commentators cannot account for.

The Economic Challenge

Trumps commitment to build new roads and highways and bridges and airports and tunnels and railways all across our wonderful nation, can bring about a real reversal of the U.S. economic decline. But the absolutely crucial issue is whether he will honor his electoral promise to re-enact Glass-Steagall, made on October 26, 2016, in Charlotte, North Carolina, and thus end the casino economy.

C-Span screen capture

However, the testimony of Trumps Treasury Secretary-designate, Steven Mnuchin, who worked for Goldman Sachs until 2002, raised doubts about the meaning of Trumps statement, when questioned by Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) during his Jan. 19 confirmation hearing. Mnuchin contended that it would not be possible to return to the original Glass-Steagall law, but rather, a new version is needed, because otherwise there would be too many liquidity problems in the financial markets. His argument reflects the line of the American Enterprise Institute.

Lyndon LaRouche stresses expressly that only the original Glass-Steagall law, as applied by FDR in 1933, could reorganize the hopelessly bankrupt financial system. Of course there would be a lack of liquidity, if the illegitimate debts, derivatives, and toxic paper of all kinds were written off. That is why Glass-Steagall is only the first step and would absolutely need to be completed by the other three points of LaRouches four laws, namely, the creation of a national bank in the tradition of Alexander Hamilton; a credit system to reconstruct the physical economy; and a crash program to develop both fusion energy and international cooperation in space research. That is the only way the urgently needed rise in productivity of the labor force can be achieved.

Therefore the LaRouche Political Action Committee (LaRouche PAC), in collaboration with an array of other organizations, such as Democrats from Ohio and the Americans for Financial Reform, will escalate their mobilization to put on the agenda FDRs Glass-Steagall Act in its original form, as well as LaRouches Four Laws as a comprehensive package.

Trump is of course right when he raises the problems of the deplorable condition of American industry as a consequence of globalization, or the drug plague, criminality, and so forth. The problem with his campaign slogan, America First, is that the world has long since developed past the point where the defense of even legitimate national interests is adequate.

A Common Destiny for Mankind

The alternative to Anglo-American style globalizationthe current system, which favors the international oligarchy at the expense of the general welfareis not a return to simple national sovereignty. The universal history of mankind has long since reached the point at which only an entirely new paradigm can lead the way to the next evolutionary stage. This new paradigm must put the common interests of mankind first; it must proceed from the idea of one humanity with a common future as a conception overarching all legitimate national interests; those interests, of course, must never be at odds with the interests of mankind as a whole. This new paradigm must be as distinct from the axiomatics of globalization as the modern era is from the Middle Ages.

Interestingly, Chinese President Xi Jinping had spoken on precisely this subject on Jan. 18 at the United Nations Palace of Nations in Geneva. There he presented his ideas on how to create a community of a shared future of mankind; he drew on the long history of international law, from the Peace of Westphalia of 1648, to the Geneva Conventions of 1864-1949, to the Five Principles of peaceful coexistence of the 1955 Bandung Conference, and to the principles of international cooperation today.

Clearly Chinas initiative for the New Silk Roadthe Belt and Road Initiative, in which more than 70 nations are already cooperatingis based precisely on these principles, whose dynamic is developing into win-win cooperation, potentially for the whole world. On January 19, the day before Trumps inauguration, Chinas Center for China and Globalization held a seminar to launch its report entitled Trumps Coming Era: Challenges, Opportunities, and Policy Responses, in which it offers cooperation. The report states that cooperation with China is actually necessary if Trump intends to revive the American economy to the extent he has proposed, because there are too many people in the United States who really do not really want the policy shift. American entrepreneurs should not miss out on the great opportunity of cooperation with the nations along the New Silk Road, and the even greater opportunity of cooperating with China itself, it says.

China has tendered the same offer of cooperation to Germany for more than three years now, and many eastern and central European nations, as well as Greece, Portugal, and Switzerland, have already recognized the advantages of cooperation with the New Silk Road.

Perhaps it is an irony of history that it is Trumps election victory that is also leading to this realization in Germany: The Bavarian weekly newspaper, Bayrische Staatszeitung, in a Jan. 19 commentary by its editor in chief, proposes that many Europeans fears of the consequences of Trumps economic policy should lead them to seek major alternative trade arrangements. China is creating a Eurasian economic zone with its New Silk Road, the paper says, in which not only Chinas billion-strong population, but also the 60 nations collaborating with it, represent an enormous demand for German and Bavarian goods and services. Other opportunities lie in collaborating with China in the emerging African states, according to the newspaper.

The alternative to America First lies in the international collaboration of all nations of the world for their common benefit. America urgently needs a New Silk Road whichproceeding from the southern tip of Chile and Argentina, through South and Central America to Alaska, and a tunnel across the Bering Straitwould link the transportation corridors of the two American continents with those of Eurasia. The economic development of the war-devastated Middle East, and of Africa, represents such a weighty challenge for the world as a whole, that the nations of Europe, together with Russia, China, India, Japan, and the United States, must all tackle this mission.

That is the program that the BuSo and the Schiller Institute have worked for, for more than a quarter of a century: The New Silk Road Becomes the World Land-Bridge. There is every reason for optimism that 2017 will be the year when this program is consolidated as the economic basis for the new paradigm.
This transcript appears in the January 27, 2017 issue of Executive Intelligence Review.

Schiller Institute Martin Luther King

Weekend Celebration in New York City

[Print version of this transcript]

Below is a transcript of Dennis Speeds introduction to the Jan. 14 portion of a Jan. 14-15 Martin Luther King conference and concert. Here is the video link to the introduction by Speed, and the presentations by Helga Zepp-LaRouche and Ben Wang.

Dennis Speed: My name is Dennis Speed, and on behalf of the Schiller Institute, I want to welcome everyone today to our conference to inaugurate the New Paradigm, and to advance the dialogue of civilizations. You could also refer to todays proceedings as the poetic principle in politics and art. Its a two-day congress that were holding; were having a conference today, and a concert tomorrow in Brooklyn.

These events are embedded, this dialogue is embedded in that process thats happening in the United Statesthe Presidential transition. The poet Percy Shelley, in the conclusion of his A Defense of Poetry, asserted that poets are the unacknowledged legislators of the world.

Today, we seek and require that poetry, the poetic principle, be acknowledged at the necessary basis for statecraft and for a dialogue of civilizations.

HELGA ZEPP-LAROUCHE

Inaugurating a New Paradigm:

A Dialogue of Civilizations

This is a transcript of Helga Zepp-LaRouches address to the Schiller Institute conference which took place in New York City on Jan. 14, 2017. Zepp-LaRouche was introduced by Dennis Speed.

Dennis Speed: The Schiller Institute was created as an attempt to introduce that [poetic] principle into East-West relations back in 1983. But there was not really a vision in the U.S. government at that time for such a thing to occur. So Helga LaRouche, on her own, created and initiated that vision. This higher cultural idea was the actual basis, however, of what today you know as the World Land-Bridge, or the New Silk Road, or many other forms of proposals which are often referred to as economic proposals, or political proposals.

But they are really policies for a new world cultural platform, and a higher conception of economics that would flow from that higher cultural conception. The General Welfare clause of the American Constitution is completely compatible with the concept of win-win cooperation that underlies the idea of the New Silk Road and the One Belt, One Road, which are the ideas, for example, that President Xi Jinping of China has been discussing. But, we need a cultural Silk Road as well.

For the last twenty years, Helga has been known as the Silk Road Lady because of the work that she did in China and in her speaking at a conference that happened at that time in Beijing in June of 1996. Now more than ever, her contribution and the contribution that we made with respect to this idea of a dialogue of civilizations, will be the necessary basis for this new cultural paradigm. And so, its always my honor to introduce the founder of the Schiller Institutes, Helga LaRouche.

Helga Zepp-LaRouche: Well, ladies and gentlemen, Im very happy to greet you in this way, via video and Hangout. But before I speak about this subject which Dennis mentionedthe dialogue of culturesI want to briefly situate the need for such a dialogue of cultures in the context of the current strategic situation, because we are living in such extremely dramatic times.

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I think, given the fact that you are in New York and in the United States, I dont have to tell you that the situation around the incoming new President can only be described as absolutely hysterical. I have never seen such a thing in my lifetimethat you have a newly elected President, who actually will come into the White House in all likelihood in six daysbut the hysteria of the mainstream neo-liberal media and a large part of the political establishment on both sides of the Atlantic have not calmed down. It seems that they still do not accept the fact that there will be a new President.

Not an American but a Global Process

Now this has everything to do with the fact that this is not an internal-American incident alone, but the absolutely surprising election for manyfor most peopleof Donald Trump, is actually part of a global process which is underway, and which is not going to stop until the reasons and causes for this processwhich you can actually call a global revolutionare removed.

Remember that the Soviet Union only collapsed a quarter of a century ago, which is not a very long time in terms of real history. At that time, Francis Fukuyama actually said this was the end of history, and that the Western liberal democracy model has been demonstrated to be victorious over communism. He indicated that in the future, there will no longer be a fight between ideas. Instead, the future will be characterized only by economic and technical problems, and therefore, it will be relatively boring.

He was obviously absolutely wrong, because this period of history, which I would say started with the collapse of the Soviet Union, and which led to what we call globalization, is coming to an end. Or, has come to an end already. Obviously, that process really started with the broken promises of the United States and others not to expand NATO to the Russian border, which subsequently was broken many times. The recent deployment of U.S. and NATO troops and military equipment to the Russian borders is just the latest example of that.

So, that breakdown started practically immediately, following the disintegration of the Soviet Union. But the real escalation of the financial dimension of this globalization occurred with the repeal of the Glass-Steagall Act in 1999, leading to the absolutely unrestricted speculation which then subsequently led to the crash of 2008, and which has now brought the world to the verge of another such crash, which will be much bigger and more dangerous.

What has happened in the recent period, is that the people who were the victims of these changeswhereby the billionaires became richer, the poor became poorer, and the middle class increasingly vanished in many countriesthere has been a revolt against that. Because the people who came to the conclusion that with this system of globalization, they would not have a futurethey started to revolt; and the first massive demonstration of this revolt was the Brexit, the exit of Great Britain from the EU in June of last year.

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The next major manifestation of that was the vote for Trump. Especially the people in the American rust belt, and other areas where people felt they had no future with this system, voted against the tradition of Bush-Cheney, Obama, and therefore against Hillary as a clear continuation of that policy. Then, a couple of weeks later, the no to the referendum in Italy against the EU bureaucracy was an expression of the same process. It will continue, because this year2017there will be many elections in Europe, where you will see the same kind of dynamic in process.

The trans-Atlantic establishment was completely shocked. First about the Brexit, then about the Trump victory. It was very clear that from day one, they did not accept these developments. It was quite amazing to see that they expressed shock, they expressed dismay. They used unbelievable language against the elected President of the United States. They did not accept it, but they also did not want to look at the reasons why this election result had occurred.

Therefore, they decided to replace the truth with a new narrative, that Russia stole the election by hacking the DNC, by hacking Podesta. Naturally what they didnt want people to be reminded of any more, was that if anybody stole the election, then it was the DNC stealing the election from Bernie Sandersbut that was sort of pushed under the carpet. Instead you had the non-stop accusations that Russia hacked the U.S. election process. That it was Russia favoring Trump, and therefore Russia really stole the election; which is quite an admission all by itself, and quite ludicrous. But that is what they decided to go with.

Naturally, there was never any evidence presented for this. Then, parallel to the Russian hacking story as such, a British agent, formerly of MI6British intelligenceChristopher Steele, started to put together a 35-page report with unbelievable allegations against Trump. I do not even want to give it the honor of repeating it hereits totally ludicrous. Again, no evidence. This report was already available to all the media in the election periodSeptember, October; it was given to the FBI, but nobody touched it, because it was so clear to everybody that there was absolutely no evidence for it.

So then, eventually the same paper was given by McCain to the FBI again, and only after Trump had said that he believed Julian Assange of WikiLeaks, more than the U.S. intelligence services.

You Tube video

All hell broke loose, and the three intelligence chiefsClapper, Brennan, and Comeyfirst briefed the U.S. Senate, then President Obama, and finally Trump, with the so-called evidence of this Russian hacking. They made a 2-page summary of the 35 pages of this report by Christopher Steele, and added that into the material that they gave to Trump. With that particular act, they gave this completely ridiculous report the authority of being a product of the intelligence. Then, CNN published it, followed by the internet firm BuzzFeed, and then all rest of the media. The story broke out in the open. This occurred exactly the evening before the first press conference by Donald Trump.

Obviously, this is an unbelievable story. even French intelligence people, like Eric Denece, who is an official of French intelligence, said it is simply that the American establishment fears that a big clean-out will come with the new administration, and they will lose their privileges and economic benefits. So therefore, they oppose it; but there is absolutely no evidence for it.

C-SPAN video

The Deeper Level

I think there is a deeper level to this whole thing, and that is the fact that what Donald Trump is threatening, is the unipolar world which the neo-cons and the neo-liberals have been building since the collapse of the Soviet Union. They backed regime change, color revolution, and wars based on lies against all countries that would not submit to the idea of a unipolar world run by the British and the American governments.

Trump, as you know, has promised that he would remedy the relationship with Russia; and despite some tensions, there are also signs, that he may actually have very good cooperation with China, especially since he wants to attain a $1 trillion investment in rebuilding the American infrastructure. He has already received offers from China to cooperate. He had an excellent discussion with the CEO of Alibaba, the large e-commerce firm of China. He met with Jack Ma, and they agreed to together invest another $1 trillion. So the signs are actually quite good.

If the United States cooperates with Russia, and has a decent relationship with China, then naturally the entire game plan to have this unipolar worldor call it globalization, which is just another word for the Anglo-American financial empirewould go out of the window. That is why they are trying to undo this election of Donald Trump. You can see very clearly that this is a direct intervention by the British.

Therefore, its not a question of party against party. Or its not a question of nation against nation. It is the old dying paradigm of the British Empireif you equate that with globalizationclearly reacting to the emergence of the New Paradigm. That New Paradigm, however, is already very strong, and is moving very rapidly.

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China has initiated this New Paradigm with this New Silk Road policy, and has offered win-win cooperation to all countries who want to cooperate. Already, more than 70 nations are engaged with China in huge infrastructure projects, projects of scientific cooperation, the most advanced technologies, space cooperation, and other such things. Its already twelve times the size of the Marshall Plan of the postwar period. Every day, new exciting breakthroughs are being reported. On Tuesday of this past week, the first standard-gauge railway between Djibouti and Addis Abeba started to carry passengers. This 750 km rail line was inaugurated Oct. 5 last year, and carried freight for three months for purposes of testing.

China has also begun a feasibility study of the Lake Chad project, Transaqua, to replenish Lake Chad, where the volume of water has now shrunk to 10% of its previous amount. This is endangering the lives of about 40 million people living in the Chad basin. This project will reverse that decline, and fill Lake Chad with water coming from the Congo River area, by using about 3-4% of the unused water of the Congo River, which flows into the Atlantic Ocean.

The project will not take water from the mouth of the Congo, but will take it from the tributaries of the Congo River. In that way, using gravity over a 500-meter drop in elevation, Lake Chad can be refilled. This will affect the lives of twelve nations. It will create a navigable waterway, it will provide hydropower, and it will open up large amounts of land for irrigation and agriculture. It is a fantastic development.

Similarly, there are reports that the Kra Canal, which will shorten the trip between the Pacific and the [Indian] Oceans, and which will be one of the absolute hubs for three billion people in Southeast Asia and South Asia, is also now going to be built. These are all projects we have been fighting for, for 20, 30, or 40 years; so all of this is extremely positive and good.

So-Called Clash of Civilizations

Together with this ridiculous Fukuyama story about the end of history, 25 years ago, you also had Samuel Huntington predicting that even after the collapse of the communist system, you would still have a clash of civilizations. He claimed that the axioms of the different religions and civilizations were so different, that there never could be unity and harmony for the human race.

He wrote an absolutely absurd book called Clash of Civilizations. That is equally as wrong as Fukuyama was wrong; because with the win-win economic cooperation of the New Silk Road, you have the possibility of having a dialogue of cultures on the highest level. That is exactly what the Schiller Institute is promoting with conferences like this. The basic idea is that if all the people were just to know the most beautiful expressions of the high phases of the other culture, they would love the other culture, because they would feel so enriched, and recognize that it is a beauty that we have many cultures.

It would be very boring if there were only one civilization. In particular, the Western liberal one is not exactly attractive. Therefore, if you look at the Confucian tradition in China, Mencius, the literati paintings, or if you look at the Vedic writings, or the Gupta Sanskrit drama tradition in India, the Indian renaissance of Tagore, Sri Aurobindo, or if you look at the Italian Renaissance, or the German Classical period in music, in literatureespecially in music from Bach to Beethoven to Brahmsall these are contributions to universal history. Once every nation knows the best expressions of the other one, Im absolutely certain that all conflicts will absolutely disappear, and we will have a rich, universal culture consisting of many national expressions and traditions, but still be united by universal principles of art and science.

Now, the other dimension which must come to this dialogue of cultures, or dialogue of civilizations, is a look into the future. Not only back to the best traditions, but a look to where mankind should be in 100 years, in 1,000 years from now. There, it is very clear that the natural next phase of evolution is spacetravel, research, cooperation, and colonization of space. If you look at the long arc of evolution, life developed from the oceans with the help of photosynthesis, to move to land. You had higher forms of species developing with higher forms of energy-flux density in their metabolisms. Eventually, man arrived. Man started to move inland from the rivers and ocean coasts, with the help of infrastructure, and opened up the landlocked areas. Now, we are at that point where the New Silk Road, as it becomes the World Land-Bridge, is completing that phase of the evolutionary development.

So, the natural next phase of evolution is the development of nearby space in the first phase, and then further space travel as we develop the technologies to do so, with the help of fusion energy and similar technologies. Man will expand in space. Then we will no longer be just an Earth-bound species, but we will be a cosmo-political species, if you want. That will then lead to a completely new knowledge about the identity of the human species.

We are in a period of real epochal changea New Paradigmwhere I am absolutely certain mankind is about to become adult. Wars will absolutely be a question of the past. Wars will be not worthy of the beautiful human species which has so much creativity to still discover. We are just at the embryonic stage of mankind.

Anyway, I just wanted to share these ideas with you, because if Trump sticks to his guns, if he can defeat this assault against him, and if you can help to bring the United States into the New Paradigmworking with Russia, and working with Chinathe future will be absolutely fantastic! That is really what I wanted to tell you.
This editorial appears in the January 27, 2017 issue of Executive Intelligence Review.

THE TIME IS NOW:

Crush the British Empire

Once and for All!

[Print version of this editorial]

Jan. 24Many have doubted the warning of Lyndon LaRouche, over these past 50 years, that the British Empire is still alive, and still dedicated to crushing the American System of Alexander Hamilton, John Quincy Adams, Abraham Lincoln, and Franklin Roosevelt. But today those doubts have been proven to be most foolish, as the imperial lords of the City of London and the British Monarchy have declared themselves, proudly, to be intent on destroying any effort to restore the American System in the United States, their former colonies.

The Obama years proved to be the total takeover of the U.S. government by the British System. The free trade model of the British, which Americas Founding Fathers had fought a revolution to escape, succeeded in eliminating all of the Frankin Roosevelt regulations and restraints on Wall Street, creating a speculative bubble reaching into the mega-trillions.

The British opium war on China was superseded in evil by the British and Wall Street banks Dope, Inc., creating the worst drug epidemic in U.S. history, while Obama refused to jail the bankers responsible for either the financial crash or the drug money laundering, and openly promoted drug legalization. Industry was dismantled under the guise of both free trade and the hoax that carbon was destroying the planet, all sponsored by Prince Philips World Wildlife Fund and related green fanatics. Space exploration and the scientific development of nuclear and fusion power were destroyed under the same British imperial model of enforced backwardness.

Perpetual, colonial wars have been waged against nations that were no threat to the United States, but were too close to Russia or China, using the British/Saudi-funded terror networks to remove governments by force. Obama and his British sponsors prepared for war with Russia and China with a massive military encirclement of both Eurasian nations.

Revive the Spirit of the War of Independence

The threat to this British control over the United States, represented by the defeat of the Obama/Hillary evil in November, has now forced the British out into the open, willing to kill to stop any chance that the Trump Administration might restore sanity. They must be stopped, and the British System destroyed, if civilization is to survive this crisis.

Look at three developments of the past months:

It is now known that the entire, hysterical campaign to portray Donald Trump as a Russian tool was run by former MI6 agent Christopher Steele, who fabricated a document so absurd that even the British assets in the U.S. intelligence community had to admit that they could not confirm any of it, despite the fact that they themselves had leaked it to the public.





The London Spectator published an article by BBC journalist Paul Wood on Jan. 21, titled, Will Donald Trump Be Assassinated, Ousted in a Coup or Just Impeached? Remember that the British have a tradition of assassinating American presidents who have stood up against the EmpireLincoln, Garfield, McKinley, and Kennedy.





A legal case has been introduced in New York accusing President Trump of breaching the Constitution by owning hotels that occasionally accept foreign govenment officials as gueststhis supposedly constituting bribes and payoffs to the President. The case is being brought by Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, a group funded by the notorious British asset George Soros, the worlds leading public promoter of drug legalization, euthanasia, color revolutions, and operations against the Russian and Chinese governments.

Despite the Soros campaign against President Trump, whom he labeled a would-be dictator, an associate of Soros, Steven Mnuchin, has been chosen as Trumps Treasury Secretary. Mnuchin worked in two hedge funds heavily funded by Soros, and worked directly for Soros Fund Management at one point. Mnuchin, in his confirmation hearing, flatly stated that he and Trump would not support the restoration of Glass-Steagall, despite the fact that Trump had pledged to restore Glass-Steagall during the campaign. The British Foreign Office in 2012 informed an American economist visiting the City of London, that passage of the Glass-Steagall legislation, then before the Congress due primarily to extensive organizing by LaRouche PAC, was a casus belli, a justification for war.

That war is now engaged. That the new American Administration will reject the British Systemin favor of Glass-Steagall, of cooperation with Russia in combatting terrorism rather than overthrowing sovereign governments, and of joining with China in the New Silk Road development of the entire worldis not certain, but is definitely possible. What is required is the mobilization of the American people to acknowledge the evil of the British System and to crush it, protecting President Trump and the nation from the assault on humanity now in play from a desperate British Empire. The time is now.

We must mobilize the American people to revive the spirit of the War of Independence against the British Empire, of Lincolns defense of the Union, and of FDRs fight against Wall Street. It can be done, but we need to bring to life all of the best traditions of American history. We need you.
PRESS RELEASE

Two More Resolutions for Glass-Steagall Introduced in State Legislatures

Jan. 27, 2017 (EIRNS)A resolution calling on Congress and the President to reinstate Glass-Steagall was introduced Jan 26 in the Delaware General Assembly. It is House Concurrent Resolution 8.This resolution is one of three introduced so far this year in state legislatures this year, the others being in Washington State and Virginia (Jt. resolution 642),

Going beyond Glass-Steagall are a number of resolutions being introduced calling for a four point program for a American Economic Recovery program, the first point of which is Glass-Steagall banking separation. Such memorials have so far been introduced in the senate of New Mexico (Senate Memorial 25), the South Carolina General Assembly (H 3344), and the Washington State Senate bill introducing LaRouche's four laws on Jan. 24. They are broadly modelled on a similar resolution passed by the Illinois state legislature in June of 2016.
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PRESS RELEASE

Italian Earthquake Victims: Save Us, Not the Banks!

Jan. 27, 2017 (EIRNS)Italys earthquake victims, led by town mayors, demonstrated Jan. 25 in front of the Parliament in Rome, protesting against delays in reconstruction. The widespread slogan was: "The government finds EU20 billions for the banks but not the money for us!" Not only is emergency housing not coming on schedule, but very little has been done to protect cattle which are now dying under the cold wave.

Many in Italy confront the current failures with the approach adopted in LAquila 2009, where 5,600 anti-seismic flats were built in 100 days and families were able to use the flats before winter could strike. This was done through a military-style mobilization under a centralized Civil Protection Department (CDD) with emergency powers.

The difference between now and then Is called Mario Monti. Monti, the EU butcher, cut the budget to the CDD and deprived it of powers in 2011-12. Now, the CDD head no longer has sufficient emergency powers to bypass bureaucracy and get done whats necessary in a short time. Additionally, Matteo Renzi had appointed a political commissioner for reconstruction before the emergency was over, creating a second decision center.

Many in Italy regret the ousting of Mario Bertolaso, the legendary head of the CDD and the "hero of LAquila," who was first targeted by judiciary attacks and eventually framed up politically in last years mayoral campaign in Rome.
PRESS RELEASE

Theresa May Visit to White House Was Classic British Geopolitical Intervention

Jan. 27, 2017 (EIRNS)From the moment she opened her mouth at the Republican Partys Jan. 26 retreat, British Prime Minister Theresa May made clear that her trip to Washington was intended to ensure that President Donald Trump doesnt stray from the British geopolitical fold. With great fanfare, she announced in todays joint press conference at the White House, that Her Majesty the Queen had invited Trump for a state visit later this year, and that he had accepted.

May harped on the "special relationship" ad nauseam, repeatedly mentioning Ronald Reagans and Margaret Thatchers collaboration, gushing that

"weve done everything together...we made the modern world," and now, "we have the opportunityindeed the responsibilityto renew the Special Relationship for this new agethe opportunity to lead, together, again."

Lead where? Into "100%" support for NATO, for example. May stated in todays press conference that this was Trumps view, although he barely mentioned this. As she last night, "Americas leadership role in NATOsupported by Britainmust be the central element around which the Alliance is built."

May pointedly warned the Republicans that the policy on Russia should be to "engage but beware"engage Russia from a position of strength, and assure the nations of Eastern Europe "that their security is not in question." In todays press conference, when asked about the possible lifting of sanctions against Russia, Trump responded that while its too early to talk about this,

"I hope we have a fantastic relationship with Russia. If we go after ISIS together, I will consider that a good thing...If we can have a great relationship with Russia and China, Im all for that. It would be a tremendous asset."

May quickly interjected that her government insists that sanctions remain in place until Russia fully complies with the Minsk process. Disagreement on some issues is natural, she added coyly, but does nothing to diminish the close relationship.

In discussing the fight against Daesh and Islamic extremism, May told the GOP retreat that "we must work internationally," but this apparently doesnt mean rejecting regime-change. She underscored that such cooperation means not only securing "a political solution in Syria, but challenging the alliance between the Syrian regime and its backers in Tehran."

May expressed concern that countries with "little tradition of democracy, liberty and human rightsnotably China and Russiahave grown more assertive in world affairs," raising the fear that there may be an eclipse of the West, given the financial crisis "and its fallout," loss of confidence in the West following 9/11, and "difficult" military interventions in Iraq and Afghanistan." The "responsibility to lead" doesnt mean returning to the "failed policies of the past," she said. But, we cant stand idly by "when the threat is real." We must always stand up for our friends."
Jan. 28 (EIRNS)The following statement was issued by Hawaiian Democratic Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard summarizing her findings on her trip to Syria and Lebanon earlier this month.

My visit to Syria has made it abundantly clear: Our counterproductive regime change war does not serve Americas interest, and it certainly isnt in the interest of the Syrian people.

As I visited with people from across the country, and heard heartbreaking stories of how this war has devastated their lives, I was asked, Why is the United States and its allies helping al-Qaeda and other terrorist groups try to take over Syria? Syria did not attack the United States. Al-Qaeda did. I had no answer.

I return to Washington, DC with even greater resolve to end our illegal war to overthrow the Syrian government. I call upon Congress and the new Administration to answer the pleas of the Syrian people immediately and support the Stop Arming Terrorists Act. We must stop directly and indirectly supporting terroristsdirectly by providing weapons, training and logistical support to rebel groups affiliated with al-Qaeda and ISIS; and indirectly through Saudi Arabia, the Gulf States, and Turkey, who, in turn, support these terrorist groups. We must end our war to overthrow the Syrian government and focus our attention on defeating al-Qaeda and ISIS. From Iraq to Libya and now in Syria, the U.S. has waged wars of regime change, each resulting in unimaginable suffering, devastating loss of life, and the strengthening of groups like al-Qaeda and ISIS.

Originally, I had no intention of meeting with Assad, but when given the opportunity, I felt it was important to take it. I think we should be ready to meet with anyone if theres a chance it can help bring about an end to this war, which is causing the Syrian people so much suffering. The U.S. must stop supporting terrorists who are destroying Syria and her people. The U.S. and other countries fueling this war must stop immediately. We must allow the Syrian people to try to recover from this terrible war.
Qantas Airways has unveiled a new $30-million hangar at Los Angeles International Airport big enough to hold and perform maintenance on the worlds largest passenger jet, the Airbus A380.

The hangar, the only facility in the U.S. designed specifically to hold the behemoth plane, was touted as signaling the airlines commitment to Los Angeles as well as to travelers making long-haul flights between the U.S. and Australia.

This is a win-win opportunity, said Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, who attended a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the facility Friday.

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The hangar is 480 feet by 370 feet and 12 stories tall, big enough to hold up to four passenger jets. The facility replaces a smaller 1950s-era hangar.

Qantas flies 40 flights per week between Los Angeles and Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, Australia, primarily using A380s and Boeing 747 jets. The carrier plans to begin flying the giant Boeing 787 Dreamliner in December.

Qantas isnt the only carrier relying on the A380. Air France, British Airways, China Southern, Asiana, Emirates and Korean Air also fly the massive A380 jet for long-haul flights from LAX.

Qantas Group Chief Executive Alan Joyce said the new hangar will make maintenance 20% more efficient because it allows more planes to fit in the facility at the same time. When Qantas wanted to work on an A380 in the old, smaller hangar, most of the plane wouldnt fit inside, he said.

Joyce said that Qantas also plans to rent out the facility to other carriers at LAX.

Deborah Flint, chief executive officer of Los Angeles World Airports, said Qantas hangar was built in a new location to make room for the airports Midfield Satellite Concourse, a new facility that will add 11 gates between the north and south runways.

Construction for the new concourse is expected to begin in the next few months, with completion schedule by 2019. The facility will connect to the Tom Bradley International Terminal through an underground walkway.

LAX now operates 12 gates that can accommodate the bigger A380 and will add six more gates when the new Midfield Satellite Concourse is completed in 2020.

hugo.martin@latimes.com

To read more about the travel and tourism industries, follow @hugomartin on Twitter.

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The morning after Donald Trump won the presidential election, Silicon Valley entrepreneur Amr Shady called his immigration lawyer in a panic.

My 10-year-old daughter asked me, Does this mean were going to get kicked out? said the 40-year-old founder of analytics start-up Reveel, who emigrated from Egypt to the Bay Area in 2015. I had to find out what Trump winning meant for my immigration status, but also what it meant for my chief data scientist.

His lawyer, Los Angeles immigration attorney Ayda Akalin, was inundated with calls from similarly nervous clients who were either already living and working in the U.S. on visas, or had visa applications pending.

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At the time, Akalin assured them that nothing had yet changed, and it was too soon to be worried. But after Trump signed an executive order Friday banning citizens of Syria, Iraq, Iran, Sudan, Somalia, Yemen and Libya from entering the U.S. for 90 days, Akalin had an update for her clients, particularly those from Muslim-majority countries: Stay inside the United States.

All of my Muslim clients are scared, even those from other countries, said Akalin, who herself is Iranian American, having immigrated to the U.S. when she was 5 years old.

The move blindsided the technology industry, which thought that its main battle on the immigration front was over the number of H-1B visas  granted to high-skilled foreign workers  that will be made available each year. The tech sector relies heavily on foreign-born software engineers to meet its staffing needs, and it has long lobbied for the government to lift the cap on the H-1B visa program to allow more foreign workers temporary employment with U.S. firms.

But H-1Bs took a backseat on Friday as tech workers and entrepreneurs already legally living and working in the U.S. worried about their own futures. Many were caught off guard by the orders reach, which extends to lawful permanent residents  or green card holders  too.

For those abroad, we are telling them to come back as soon as possible, and be prepared to face questioning and possible refusal, Akalin said.

The order also compelled several big tech companies to break their silence about the Trump administration. Google Chief Executive Sundar Pichai slammed the order in a memo to employees.

Its painful to see the personal cost of this executive order on our colleagues, Pichai wrote, according to Bloomberg News. Weve always made our view on immigration issues known publicly and will continue to do so.

Bloomberg reports that the memo urged employees traveling overseas who are affected by the order to seek help from the companys security and immigration teams. More than 100 employees are affected, Pichai said.

Were concerned about the impact of this order and any proposals that could impose restrictions on Googlers and their families, or that could create barriers to bringing great talent to the U.S., a Google spokesperson said. Well continue to make our views on these issues known to leaders in Washington and elsewhere.

Mark Zuckerberg, Facebooks chief executive, also spoke out against Trumps action, although in a less direct way, taking to his personal Facebook page to remind his millions of followers that his wife, pediatrician and philanthropist Priscilla Chan, is the daughter of refugees.

My great grandparents came from Germany, Austria and Poland. Priscillas parents were refugees from China and Vietnam, Zuckerberg wrote. The United States is a nation of immigrants, and we should be proud of that.

The chief executives of Netflix, Microsoft and Lyft similarly issued statements or internal memos opposing the presidents directive.

Even tech executives close to the Trump administration criticized the order.

Uber CEO Travis Kalanick  who serves on a panel advising Trump on business issues  said many drivers for the ride-hailing service are immigrants from the affected countries who often visit extended families abroad and might have trouble reentering the U.S. The company is considering compensating those drivers over the next three months to mitigate some of the financial stress and complications with supporting their families and putting food on the table. Kalanick said he would raise issue when the panel convenes for its first meeting Friday in Washington.

Tesla Motors and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk  who met with Trump at the White House last week  said on Twitter a blanket entry ban on citizens from certain primarily Muslim countries is not the best way to address the countrys challenges.

Many people negatively affected by this policy are strong supporters of the US, wrote Musk, who also serves on the panel. Theyve done right, not wrong & dont deserve to be rejected.

The tech industry has in the past highlighted the value of immigrants to American culture and the economy: Steve Jobs was of Syrian descent, high-profile executives at Twitter, Yahoo, Google and eBay are of Iranian descent. Along with most of the worlds biggest technology companies, the Bay Area is home to some 250,000 Muslims, according to a study by the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding, of which 60% are foreign-born.

Venture capital firms see Trumps move as a slap in the face, especially since it comes less than two weeks after the Department of Homeland Security passed a rule allowing eligible foreign entrepreneurs to work in the U.S. for up to five years. The rule change  which Silicon Valley saw as a boon, and is expected to take effect July 17  was proposed by President Obama last summer.

We felt that, finally, things were moving forward, said Zafer Younis, a partner at venture capital firm 500 Startups, which prides itself on its international investments, many of which are in countries that are predominantly Muslim. This new development really dampened it.

The executive order increases the uncertainty and risk of investing internationally, Younis said. And while 500 Startups will continue investing abroad, theres concern that other venture capital firms that were once eyeing international opportunities will now get cold feet.

It changes the risk profile all of a sudden, he said.

The United States is a nation of immigrants, and we should be proud of that.  Mark Zuckerberg, Facebook CEO

But for Younis, its personal, too. Originally from Jordan, Younis has lived in the Bay Area for the past two years on an EB-1 visa  a green card that is granted to those deemed to have extraordinary ability. Though Jordan is not on Trumps list of countries whose citizens are banned from entering the U.S., it is a Muslim-majority nation, and it has given him pause.

My wife is here. I have upcoming business trips to Japan and Europe. Im not affected, yet I have to think twice  do I really need to travel or not? he said. Its a feeling I thought I left back in the Middle East. Its an anxiety, that things are beyond your control.

That anxiety is shared by other technologists and entrepreneurs in the Bay Area. Shady, the Egyptian entrepreneur, is also in the U.S. on an EB-1 visa. He and his children have Canadian citizenship, but his wife is an Egyptian citizen.

So what does that mean? he said. If Egypt is on the list three months from now, what does that mean for our family?

The American Civil Liberties Union on Saturday filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration on behalf of two men who were detained at New Yorks John F. Kennedy International Airport while traveling back to the U.S. after Trumps immigration crackdown. Late Saturday night, a federal judge in the case issued an order halting the removal of refugees or others who hold valid visas to enter the U.S. The order appears to affect up to 200 people who were detained in transit to the U.S.

Silicon Valley venture capitalist Chris Sacca tweeted that he would match donations to the ACLU up to $25,000.

Tech CEOs are slowly raising their voices. Immigration lawyers are advising their clients to stay put. And in a Silicon Valley mosque where Shady attended Friday prayers, the sheikh preached that everyone needs to stand against injustice toward all communities, even if their own is not directly affected.

This is the most important thing for me right now because, even though it doesnt affect me directly, its important for us to all understand what it means to stand against unfairness and the splitting of families, Shady said.

tracey.lien@latimes.com

Twitter: @traceylien

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UPDATES:

5:20 p.m.: This article was updated to include comments from Elon Musk, chief executive of Tesla Motors Inc. and SpaceX.

3:55 p.m.: This article was updated to include a comment from Uber Chief Executive Travis Kalanick.

This article was originally published at 1:20 p.m.
The election of Donald Trump to the presidency has drawn all kinds of reactions from the cultural establishment  from a plea for inclusiveness from the cast of Hamilton on Broadway (as then-Vice President-elect Mike Pence sat in the audience) to a general call for a national culture strike on Inauguration Day, a proposal that received the support of prominent visual artists such as Cindy Sherman and Richard Serra.

Inauguration weekend marked an important transition point not only for the country, but for artists who have been critical of many of Trumps policies, including the report last week that the administration may be targeting the National Endowment for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Humanities for elimination.

In this climate, it seemed fitting to find out how Los Angeles artists and arts institutions were responding to the dawn of the Trump era  from a small vigil at a Culver City theater to a clown performance in Hollywood to the jammed womens march in downtown Los Angeles, where dozens of arts workers joined the masses who took to the street in protest.

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Many gestures were modest, but in sum they revealed that the advent of the Trump presidency is no ordinary moment in American cultural life.

The Actors Gang  Thursday, Jan. 19, 5:30 p.m.

Members of the Actors Gang in Culver City gather in front of the theater on Jan. 19, the eve of Donald Trumps inauguration, to turn on a ghostlight as a gesture of tolerance. (Carolina A. Miranda / Los Angeles Times)

Twelve hours before Trump was scheduled to be sworn into office, some three-dozen members of the Actors Gang theater in Culver City gathered in a plaza before their building to turn on a light. The vigil was part of the nationwide Ghostlight Project, a way for members of the theater community to create light for dark times ahead by proclaiming a commitment to tolerance.

The sky was turning cobalt and the wind had picked up a chilly edge as actor Brian Finney read from a short statement: When our theaters go dark at the end of the night, we turn on a ghostlight  offering visibility and safety for all who might enter.

On cue, the light came on, to which the crowd added the lights of their cellphones.

After members of the group issued short declarations about the ideals they would commit to in the coming years, actor Cameron Dye led the group in a rendition of Woody Guthries This Land Is Your Land.

The group reached the final stanza, which ends with the line: Is this land made for you and me?

Dye held up his guitar and answered the question: Hell, yeah!

LACE  Friday, Jan 20., 7:45 a.m.

Artist Rachel Mason dressed up as her character FutureClown, preparing to lip-sync Trumps speech at LACE. (Carolina A. Miranda / Los Angeles Times)

Los Angeles woke up on inauguration morning to steely skies releasing near-biblical amounts of rain. That didnt stop the crew at Los Angeles Contemporary Exhibitions in Hollywood from arriving early to stage a work by Rachel Mason.

The artist, known for performing as a character called FutureClown, lip-synced the new presidents speech as it happened via a live stream on Facebook  while dressed up as a clown.

As Trump talked about putting America first, Mason  decked out in a green-and-brown polka-dot number, complete with a Cubist-looking headdress and dramatic face paint  mouthed along and employed Trumpian finger gestures.

It was the only event held at the nonprofit arts space on Friday, since the space closed in observance of the nationwide #J20 Art Strike.

But LACE executive director Sarah Russin said it was important to provide Mason with the space and support.

I feel that presenting this with Rachel is our way of commenting, she said, of giving an artist an artist-driven project to respond to the election.

Missed the show? An archival version can be found on Masons YouTube channel.

MOCA  Friday, Jan. 20., 11:45 a.m.

The sign blocking access to R.H. Quaytmans MOCA exhibition on Trumps Inauguration Day. (Carolina A. Miranda / Los Angeles Times)

The Museum of Contemporary Art on Grand Avenue was open for business on Inauguration Day  except for the single gallery that contained Morning: Chapter 30, an expansive, multi-panel work by New York painter R.H. Quaytman. The artist had requested that the museum close this particular room as an Inauguration Day protest.

A printed sign bearing text by Quaytman explained her decision:

I intended the large panoramic painting to be an American landscape, she wrote. I painted it in the months leading up to the election but finished it before knowing the outcome. Today the outcome is tragically clear. I named the painting and exhibition Morning for the sounds of that word, and today I would like my American landscape to do exactly that: mourn.

MOCA Director Philippe Vergne agreed to close the gallery with the Quaytman work.

For her, Friday is a day of mourning, Vergne said. We wanted to respect that  and that word, respect, is very important.

Hammer Museum  Friday, Jan. 20, 5 p.m.

Copies of the womens art comic Resist! at the Hammer Museum. (Carolina A. Miranda / Los Angeles Times)

The Hammer Museum, like MOCA, remained open on Inauguration Day. But it too provided artists with a space in which to speak out about the election. The Hammer served as an informal distribution center for a 40-page tabloid comic drawn by women reacting to Trumps presidential election.

The publication titled Resist! was edited by New Yorker art director Francoise Mouly  co-founder of the famed 80s-era comics magazine Raw  and her daughter Nadja Spiegelman. Published by Desert Island Comics in New York City, 58,000 copies were printed and distributed free over inauguration weekend at comic book shops, arts centers and at the Womens March on Washington.

It is stocked with memorable images, including an inky black illustration by artist Sue Coe, showing Trump in the shape of a tornado; and a full-page piece by Alison Bechdel, the comic artist behind award-winning graphic memoir and Tony-winning Broadway musical Fun Home, showing a group of friends grappling with the results of the election.

The quantity, quality, and the diversity of the work we collected are staggering, reads the editors letter. Artists of all genders, ethnicities, religions and sexual orientations, Midwestern artists and immigrants, celebrated cartoonists and 13-year-old girls heeded the call and grabbed their pens. The result is an outpouring so genuine it cant help but endure.

LACMA  Friday, Jan 20, 7:30 p.m.

Edgar Arceneaux takes questions from the audience after a screening of Until, Until, Until... at the Bing Theater at LACMA. (Carolina A. Miranda / Los Angeles Times)

By Friday evening the rain had broken, and several dozen people poured into the L.A. County Museum of Arts Bing Theater to watch a film by Los Angeles artist Edgar Arceneaux.

In his introduction, curator Jose Luis Blondet described the free screening as our counter-inauguration event. It served as a way of considering a presidential transition of power  but one that had nothing to do with Trump.

Until, Until, Until, as Arceneauxs film is called, explored Ronald Reagans 1981 inaugural gala, which featured a controversial song-and-dance routine created by Broadway star Ben Vereen. In tribute to vaudevillian Bert Williams, Vereen had donned blackface. But when ABC cut a key portion of his performance from the televised broadcast, Vereens intentions were misinterpreted and there was backlash.

The works examination of the volatile intersection of race and politics was certainly magnified on the day in which Trump  who had made controversial statements about Muslims, African Americans and Mexicans during the campaign  was sworn into office. In introducing the film, Arceneaux was visibly rattled.

Watching Obama get on a helicopter and leave D.C. and hand the key to the White House to  he said, unable to complete the thought.

But the evening ended on a high note. The artist arranged for a surprise visit from organizational psychologist Roberto Vargas, who took to the stage with a drum to give the audience a morale boost.

Said Vargas: We do our art, we do our work, we do our life to make a better world.

Good Luck Gallery  Saturday, Jan. 21, 7:30 a.m.

Photographer Catherine Opie waits for the womens march to kick off in downtown Los Angeles. (Carolina A. Miranda / Los Angeles Times)

On Saturday morning, anyone happening upon the Good Luck Gallery in Chinatown would have caught sight of the architectonic-looking ceramic sculptures of Sylvia Fragoso. They would have also run into dozens of people making protest posters and fueling up on doughnuts and hot coffee.

Proprietor Paige Wery opened her space early on Saturday so that artists and other arts workers attending the womens march in downtown Los Angeles would have a place to gather in advance of the march.

I didnt know if anyone would show up, but they did! Wery said. There were people here all day yesterday too. A lot of artists  but also a lot of people Id never met.

They werent the only ones. Around the city, artists had been gathering at arts centers such as Self-Help Graphics in Boyle Heights and Bergamot Station in Santa Monica to fabricate posters and establish meeting points in advance of the protest. On an artist loft building on Spring Street downtown, the painter known as Gronk hung a flag of his recurring female character, Tormenta, to cheer on the protesters.

At 8:45 a.m., the group of artists at Good Luck Gallery gathered for a group portrait and then began the 30-minute walk to Pershing Square, the starting point of the march.

There, the group melded into the larger crowd, where artist Catherine Opie, a photographer who sits on the board of the Museum of Contemporary Art, was taking pictures (and helping with crowd control).

It is often artists who are a public voice of opposition, she said before she disappeared into the crowd as the march kicked off. And artists need to bring that voice of opposition to this cause  with every drop of blood and every tear.

Disney Hall  Sunday, Jan. 22, 7 p.m.

Conductor Grant Gershon, far left, of the L.A. Master Chorale, joins singers Rod Gilfry, Arnold Livingston Geis, Allyson McHardy and Raquel Gonzalez, for a bow at Disney Hall. (Carolina A. Miranda / Los Angeles Times)

Despite Sundays soaking rain, the Los Angeles Master Chorale drew a full house for an evening performance of Beethovens Missa Solemnis at Walt Disney Concert Hall, with soprano Raquel Gonzalez, tenor Arnold Livingston Geis, mezzo soprano Allyson McHardy and baritone Rod Gilfrey as the principal soloists. Completed in 1823, at the end of his life, the 80-minute mass is a work that Beethoven considered one of his greatest.

As the show began, the Master Chorales Artistic Director Grant Gershon took to the podium, then paused to say a few words  something he doesnt generally do.

But this is an extraordinary time, he stated, and an extraordinary weekend in this city  a nod to the massive womens march that took place in downtown Los Angeles the day before. This was greeted with hearty, determined applause.

Then Gershon proceeded to share a few thoughts about the music. He pointed out the raw power of the Agnus Dei, the final movement, which is punctuated by a moment of great musical turmoil, representing a world that is careening out of control.

The music reaches the brink of catastrophe and then subsides, Gershon said. The end of the music doesnt feel like a resolution  it feels more like a question.

Then he raised his baton and the first deep notes of Beethovens Missa Solemnis began to rumble through the hall  a nearly 200-year-old composition that remains hauntingly, wondrously, achingly current.

Sign up for our weekly Essential Arts & Culture newsletter 

carolina.miranda@latimes.com

@cmonstah

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Confusion erupted Saturday in the the wake of President Trumps executive order banning travel to the U.S. from several Muslim-majority countries, and its potential impact on the ability of Iranian filmmaker and Oscar nominee Asghar Farhadi to attend next months Academy Awards.

Farhadi, whose latest film The Salesman is nominated for best foreign language film, was considered likely to be barred under the new order, as president of the National Iranian American Council Trita Parsi tweeted on Friday: Confirmed: Irans Asghar Farhadi wont be let into the US to attend Oscars.

The tweet followed Trumps order that banned travel to the U.S. over the next 90 days from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen. The abrupt ban, which also suspended all refugee arrivals from Syria, resulted in several passengers from some of those countries being detained at New Yorks John. F. Kennedy Airport on Saturday.

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Parsi reported that Farhadi has only a Iranian passport and no U.S. green card, which would leave him subject to the ban unless he applied for an artistic exception.

The law is very clear and Ive heard confirmation that hes not coming, Parsi told the Los Angeles Times on Friday night.

According to a tweet Saturday from a correspondent for BBC Persian, the filmmakers office said there was no legal obstacle for him to visit the U.S. for the Oscars, but that Farhadi has not yet decided if he wants to attend.

Calls to representatives for Farhadi, and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences were not immediately returned.

The problem that were having right now is that the executive order is so ambiguous, said Parsi, whose organization is the largest nonprofit of its kind representing the Iranian American community. This administration, to be kind, is rather amateurish in how theyre sending out information. We hope that in the next couple of days they clarify exactly what they want these rules to mean and how they should be interpreted, because they cast an extremely wide net.

Taraneh Alidoosti, the lead actress in The Salesman, announced in the wake of the executive order that she would not attend the Academy Awards. Trumps visa ban for Iranians is racist, Alidoosti wrote. Whether this will include a cultural event or not, I wont attend the #AcademyAwards 2017 in protest.

Farhadi, whose films are not overtly political, won the Academy Award for foreign language film in 2012 for A Separation. In an interview with The Times earlier this month, he spoke optimistically about the prospects for change in his country, where he continues to work and reside.

In appearance, everything is becoming modern in Iran, he said. Buildings and skyscrapers are going up. Old buildings are being torn down. Arthur Miller is staged there. Theres cinema. But once you push that back, you see Irans culture and tradition beneath.

He also commented during the interview on the U.S. presidential election, saying, You had great potential and Im still in shock at the election of Donald Trump.

Times Staff Writers Jen Yamato and Jeffrey Fleishman contributed to this report.

See the most-read stories in Entertainment this hour 

chris.barton@latimes.com

Follow me over here @chrisbarton.

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A covert joint operation that reluctantly brings together a North Korean investigator and a South Korean policeman pays entertaining dividends in Confidential Assignment, an unapologetically mainstream caper that plays like a vintage Hollywood buddy cop movie.

After a corrupt official named Cha (Kim Joo-hyuk) sneaks into South Korea with U.S. currency plates stolen from a counterfeiting raid, Cheol-ryung (Hyun Bin), a former special forces agent with a personal grudge against him, is dispatched by North Korean Homeland Security to Seoul to secure the plates and the perp.

Much to the steely, by-the-book Cheol-ryungs aggravation, hes partnered with the decidedly softer Detective Kang (Yoo Hae-jin), a South Korean family man whose pursuits always seem to be interrupted by phone calls from his young daughter.

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Their resulting yin-yang might be the stuff of countless crime comedies, particularly the Mel Gibson-Danny Glover dynamic in the Lethal Weapon series, but South Korean filmmaker Kim Sung-hoon has clearly done his homework while injecting the action sequences with a terrific kinetic energy.

But the films two biggest secret weapons are those lead performances by Hyun Bin and Yoo Hae-jin, whose easy Riggs-Murtaugh chemistry compensates for a pace that occasionally gets sidetracked by the overly extended domestic sequences.

When their next assignment is teased over the end credits, the conceit makes for one of those rare sequels we actually wouldnt mind seeing.

-------------

Confidential Assignment

In Korean with English subtitles

Rating: Not rated

Running time: 2 hours, 5 minutes

Playing: CGV Cinemas, Los Angeles

See the most-read stories in Entertainment this hour 

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Is your coat wool? Alfre Woodard asked as she sat at a long, flower-filled table draped with purple paisley Italian linen. Im allergic to wool. I can never wear anything nice.

Under the cavernous, vaulted ceiling of a mountain mansion, where the driveway was heated, an indoor stream trickled and a string of faux llamas stood guard on the stone staircase, Woodard sipped a spoonful of vegan cream of vegetable soup served by celebrity chef Cat Cora. Nearby, Marti Noxon, one of the creators of the Lifetime series Unreal, talked about her feature film debut, To the Bone, which would sell the next day to Netflix for a reported $8 million.

Here at the home of ChefDance CEO and founder Mimi Kim, Woodard, Shirley MacLaine, Elle Fanning and Jill Soloway were just part of a formidable group gathered during the Sundance Festival for a lunch to celebrate women in film.

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Cindi Leive, editor in chief of Glamour, explained how the magazine had partnered with photographer and talk-show host Amanda de Cadenets Girlgaze, a digital initiative for women behind the camera. They wanted to explore how they could support women filmmakers through their respective platforms.

A view of the table, with a formidable show of powerful women. (Vivien Killilea / Getty Images for Glamour)

FULL COVERAGE: 2017 Sundance Film Festival 

But while these types of occasions present plenty of moments for business-card trading and jealousy-inducing Instagram photos, the open discussions usually stick to polite words of encouragement and empowerment stories.

In that spirit, the idea of mentorships for up-and-coming women in the industry was floated by De Cadenet. Director Kimberly Peirce spoke about how it was important not to stray from female pleasure on-screen and told a story about how the MPAA took issue with a female orgasm that lasted too long in her film Boys Dont Cry.

Then the conversation shifted to our new president.

My feeling, said Salma Hayek, is that we are about to go to war.

But she had a warning. Hayek, at Sundance with Miguel Artetas Beatriz at Dinner, agreed that more women need to be hired so that female voices can continue to be recognized by the new administration. But be careful that we dont fall into victimization, she added.

I dont want to be hired because Im a girl. I want them to see Im fabulous. Dont give me a job because Im a girl. Its condescending.

Shirley MacLaine, at 82, wearing purple and pink in honor of Saturdays Womens Marches, chimed in, saying that Donald Trump presented a challenge to each of our inner democracy and urged everyone at the table to explore their core identity.

Actress Shirley MacLaine. (Vivien Killilea / Getty Images for Glamour)

Find the democracy inside.  Shirley MacLaine

Then Jessica Williams, the former Daily Show correspondent who was at Sundance as the star of Jim Strouses The Incredible Jessica James, spoke up.

I have a question for you, Williams, 27, said to MacLaine. My question is: What if you are a person of color, or a transgendered person who  just from how you look  you already are in a conflict?

Right, but change your point of view, MacLaine offered. Change your point of view of being victimized. Im saying: Find the democracy inside.

Im sorry, Hayek said, jumping in. Can I ask you a question?

Yes, maam, Williams answered.

Who are you when youre not black and youre not a woman? Who are you and what have you got to give?

Williams took a deep breath. A lot. But some days, Im just black, and Im just a woman, she said. Like, its not my choice. I know who I am. I know Im Jessica, and Im the hottest bitch on the planet I know.

No, no, no, Hayek said. Take the time to investigate. Thats the trap! ...There is so much more.

Right, agreed MacClaine. The more is inside.

Jessica Williams (Vivien Killilea / Getty Images for Glamour)

When I talk about feminism, sometimes I feel like being a black woman is cast aside.  Jessica Williams

Williams, whose speech at the womens march at Sundance was praised as one of the most powerful and effective last week, looked down and said she was struggling to articulate herself. Peirce tried to help her, saying that when she goes out in public looking masculine, she causes discomfort in a way Williams might as a black woman.

But that wasnt quite right. So after a few moments of reflection, Williams returned to Hayek.

I think what youre saying is valid, but I also think that what youre saying doesnt apply to all women. I think thats impossible.

What part of it is impossible? Hayek responded. Youre giving attention to how the other one feels.

Because I have to, Williams said.

If you have to do that, then do that, Hayek said. Then thats your journey. But I want to inspire other people to know its a choice.

Salma Hayek, left, with ChefDance founder Mimi Kim, who opened her Park City home for the Glamour magazine and Girlgaze-hosted lunch celebrating women in film. (Vivien Killilea / Getty Images for Glamour)

They said, Go back to Mexico. Youll never be anything other than a maid in this country. By the heads of studios!  Salma Hayek

This was when Mudbound filmmaker Dee Rees  who had moments earlier introduced herself as a black, queer director  jumped in. At this lunch, she said, she didnt feel like she was posing a threat to anyone. But in line at the bank? Things were different. I dont see myself a victim, she said. [Jessica] doesnt see herself as a victim. But its how youre read.

I also feel like the word victim  I feel like it has bothered me, Williams replied. When I talk about feminism, sometimes I feel like being a black woman is cast aside. I always feel like Im warring with my womanhood and wanting the world to be better, and with my blackness  which is the opposite of whiteness.

Director Dee Rees, right, and author Sarah M. Bloom. (Vivien Killilea / Getty Images for Glamour)

I dont see myself a victim. [Jessica] doesnt see herself as a victim. But its how youre read.  Dee Rees, director

Cora, who had been in the kitchen cooking lamb stew and halibut, wandered over to share that she grew up gay in Mississippi, where she was sexually abused from age 6. No matter an individuals experience, she said, she just wished all women would have one anothers backs.

It was a somewhat of an abrupt turn, and Transparent creator Soloway returned to Williams to ask her to continue speaking.

With intersectional feminism, its our responsibility as white women to recognize that when there are people of color or people who are queer  we need to prioritize your voices and let you speak the loudest and learn from your experience, because we havent been listening. So please, Jessica, finish your thoughts.

Elle Fanning, left, Jill Soloway, and Amanda de Cadenet. (Vivien Killilea / Getty Images for Glamour)

We need to prioritize your voices and let you speak the loudest and learn from your experience, because we havent been listening.  Jill Soloway

Williams, visibly uncomfortable, said she also wanted to encourage all of the women in the room to pay special attention to women of color and LGBT women. I think we need to not speak over black women, she said, not assign them labels.

What does this mean, speak over? Hayek asked.

To project your ideas on me, Williams said. I think there is a fear that if we present an idea that, Hey, maybe [black women] have it a little bit harder in this country  because we do; black women and trans women do  if were having it a little bit harder, it doesnt invalidate your experience. I really am begging you to not take it personally.

Williams continued, referencing Planned Parenthood to support her argument. While many women may rely on the clinic, she said, four out of five women who use their services are women of color.

So when you say women of color, Hayek began. Then she noticed that Williams was not making eye contact with her. Jessica, do you mind if I look at your eyes?

Jessica Williams (Vivien Killilea / Getty Images for Glamour)

I think we need to not speak over black women, not assign them labels.  Jessica Williams

Williams barely looked up. Still, the back-and-forth continued, with Hayek questioning whether or not she was considered a woman of color in Williams estimation. Nearly everyone in the room responded that Hayek was.

Wouldnt it solve it if women just all had each others backs in general? Cora asked suddenly.

Sure, Peirce said. The thing is this, yes, all women can work together, but we have to acknowledge that black women have a different experience. Shes here struggling and we keep shutting her down.

I dont think anybody here shut her down, Cora said, fighting back.

Can I interrupt, because I feel misunderstood, Hayek agreed. Its not shutting you up. I feel misunderstood on one point: We should be also curious about our brain. By being the best that you can be. Thats what I was trying to say to you. Lets not just spend all the time in the anger, but in the investigation.

Baby, Im Mexican and Arab, she went on, addressing Williams. Im from another generation, baby, when this was not even a possibility. My generation, they said, Go back to Mexico. Youll never be anything other than a maid in this country. By the heads of studios! There was no movement. Latino women were not even anywhere near where you guys are. I was the first one. Im 50 years old. So I understand.

You dont understand, Williams said, shaking her head quietly.

Leive attempted to wrap up the conversation, noting that many had planes to catch. But it was clear to all that despite the moments of palpable discomfort, an important discussion had just occurred. Rarely do prominent women in Hollywood voice such uncensored opinions.

In the days following the record-breaking womens marches across the country, its tempting to view women as a unified force. But there are still thorny discussions to be had before everyone joins hands and starts singing Kumbaya.

 Director Jim Strouse talks about writing the title character in The Incredible Jessica James for Jessica Williams.

 Director Dee Rees talks about casting Mary J. Blige, Carey Mulligan and Jason Mitchell for her film Mudbound. After loving Mitchells performance in Straight Outta Compton, Rees said, Id be so lucky to get him in my film.

 Actress America Ferrera shares her thoughts on speaking at the Womens March on Washington, the need for diversity in Hollywood and the purpose of art today.

amy.kaufman@latimes.com

Follow me on Twitter @AmyKinLA

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John Hurt possessed one of the greatest voices in cinema  a voice that could tremble with terror and fragility in The Elephant Man (1980), or drive its very owner mad with torment in Krapps Last Tape (2000). But so often it was the voice of sage mischief, of someone so knowing, observant and sharp-witted that he could afford to puncture every pretension.

It was no surprise that this splendidly versatile English actor was called on to play so many narrators over his career, dispensing his dry storybook wisdom in pictures as different as Perfume: The Story of a Murderer (2006), Sightseers (2012) and even The Tigger Movie (2000).

The best of these particular vocal performances may well be among the least known. In Lars von Triers punishing morality plays Dogville (2003) and Manderlay (2005), it is Hurts voice  arch, insinuating and deeply sarcastic  that guides us through the directors neo-Brechtian world of spare sets and chalk outlines, and that encourages us to see his characters in the cold, harsh light that their actions demand. Hurts voice doesnt just support these pictures; it speaks for them, nailing Von Triers misanthropic tone with ruthless accuracy.

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A narrator is by definition a kind of outsider, someone whose very omniscience both elevates and relegates them to the margins of the story. Before his death on Friday at the age of 77, Hurt excelled at playing outsiders of every stripe, giving dimension to an astonishingly rich cross section of the persecuted and marginalized.

He earned his first Academy Award nomination, for best supporting actor, for Alan Parkers 1978 prison drama, Midnight Express, in which he played Max, the wry, cynical, drugged-out inmate who becomes a one-man rejoinder to all the macho bluster around him. Another outsider: Giles DeAth, the gay English writer who crosses the Atlantic to pursue an improbable infatuation in Love and Death on Long Island (1998), and whom Hurt imbues with a poignant sense of dislocation from traditional romantic and social mores.

Hurt delivered by far his most haunting rendition of an outcast in The Elephant Man, which earned him a second Oscar nomination, this time for best lead actor. Beneath the enormous facial protuberances of John Merrick in that David Lynch classic, Hurt so fully grasped the characters terror and vulnerability that he ceased, in a sense, to be unrecognizable. He turned deformity into humanity and a disguise into a revelation.

Hurt was no slouch at playing insiders as well, and some of his most memorable performances offer a sharp, subtle critique of the trappings of power and privilege. He made an early big-screen impression as the treacherous Lord Richard Rich in A Man for All Seasons (1966), and gave himself over to the madness and debauchery of the Roman Emperor Caligula in the 1976 TV miniseries I, Claudius. In Tomas Alfredsons beautifully bleak adaptation of Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy (2011), Hurt brought a marvelous gravity, at once elegiac and poker-faced, to the role of Control, the top-secret British intelligence chief trying to root out a mole in his rapidly shifting empire.

And in James McTeigues V for Vendetta (2005), Hurt became the villainous face of British totalitarianism as Chancellor Adam Sutler  a sly nod to his famous performance as Winston Smith in Michael Radfords adaptation of 1984, in which he did wily justice to the anguish of an individual crushed and warped by the workings of an authoritarian government. (There is a grim irony in the fact that Hurt died the same week that sales of George Orwells novel have skyrocketed, apparently in response to mounting fears over President Trumps administration.)

Hurt could be a consummate ensemble player, too, even if his performance as Kane in Alien (1979), which featured the most famous and shocking of Hurts many, many death scenes, inevitably came to define Ridley Scotts horror masterpiece for all time. He lent his voice to the animated projects Watership Down (1978), The Lord of the Rings (1978) and The Black Cauldron (1985), and donned all manner of white-wigged fantasy garb for the benefit of the Harry Potter and Hellboy franchises.

It is often said of our best actors that they disappear into their roles, but at a certain point, Hurt stopped disappearing. The pleasure of watching him on-screen came accompanied with an aha! of recognition  of hearing that elegant rasp of a voice and seeing those glinting, intelligent eyes, and knowing that, however eccentric the context, we were in exceptionally good hands.

It was delightful to see him turn up as a drunken father of the bride in Von Triers Melancholia (2011); as a grieving husband meeting his wifes family in Billy Bob Thorntons Jayne Mansfields Car (2012); and as a bearded, disabled fighter in Bong Joon-hos dystopian thriller Snowpiercer (2013). No one could have better played the undead incarnation of Christopher Marlowe in Only Lovers Left Alive (2013), whose director, Jim Jarmusch, became a semi-regular collaborator in films such as Dead Man (1995) and The Limits of Control (2009).

The last time I saw the actor on-screen was last year, in Pablo Larrains Jackie, in which Hurt plays a Catholic priest who consoles and at times contradicts the widowed Jacqueline Kennedy in her darkest hour. You know my story, she tells him at one point, to which he replies, God isnt interested in stories. Hes interested in truth.

Hurt, more than most actors, succeeded in making them one and the same.

justin.chang@latimes.com

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Anika Noni Rose is ready for more. Her career began in theater, and in 2004, she received a Tony Award for her performance in Caroline, or Change. From there, she seamlessly transitioned to film and TV, where she performed in Dreamgirls, voiced Disneys first African American princess in the animated film The Princess and the Frog and starred in a revival of Roots, among numerous other roles.

Rose, 44, was recently at the Sundance Film Festival, promoting a new BET series, The Quad, which premieres Feb. 1. Rose plays Eva Fletcher, president of a fictitious historically black university, who is tasked with saving the school from bankruptcy in between navigating personal struggles. The show explores the rich history of black colleges in the U.S. and the battles that many are facing now. While en route to the airport, Rose talked about the role and her desire for more opportunities as a black actress in Hollywood.

How did you get involved in The Quad?

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I got a call from [director] Rob Hardy asking me to read the script and telling me that they really wanted me to be part of this. I read it and I was pleased with what they had put on the page. I thought it was something interesting and different. We just went from there.

You attended Florida A&M, a historically black university. Are there any similarities between your college experience and the issues your character must address in the series?

I would guess that as a student, I wasnt so concerned with those issues, but certainly they were around. Our school was never in peril while I was there, so thats a great thing. But we know that the government has been trying to defund HBCUs since [President] Reagan was in office, so it was always something that we were aware of every year. If your school is a state school, you dont know what programs are going to stay, what programs are going to be cut, and whether or not it will be dealt with as respectably as your counterpart schools.

For those who did not attend a historically black college, how do you think they can relate to the show?

I think anybody who went to college at all can relate to the show. There are things that are specific to that experience, but I think even within that specificity is something that people who went to college can deal with. Anybody who was a scholarship child knows what it is like to possibly lose that scholarship and be worried about how are they going to continue paying for school. That situation is not relegated to HBCUs. People being away from home and dealing with grown-up issues for the first time. Anybody whos ever been a fish out of water, I think can connect to that watching this show.

With theater, film and now TV under your belt, do you prefer one outlet over the other?

Thats interesting. I like all three. I dont like to get stuck in one or the other. I really like to and Im thankful to be able to bounce back and forth. I love film because it allows me to travel and take in new cultures, and thats thrilling and exciting to me and fun. Its finite, which is great. Theater is the thing that Im always going to go back to. I feel like its the thing that makes you sharper and stronger and better, and so Ill always do that. And Im doing TV now, so well see. This is only the second time Ive done series work, so it will be an interesting adventure.

Many of the roles you have taken on are centered on the black experience. That must be what speaks most to you.

No, its not my intention, its Hollywood. I think that with some things, of course, I chose because they spoke to me and I do happen to be a black woman. But in Hollywood, people arent running up to black women about scripts that arent talking about blackness. I think that whenever I have the opportunity to be doing something that isnt centered around my ethnicity, it would be very, very exciting to do. Unfortunately, I work in a field where its rare that you find people who are expanded enough to look past what they think your skin is and what that means about who you are.

What else would you like to take on if given the opportunity?

Oh, my God, Id love to do a romantic comedy. Id love to do just a plain old comedy that isnt centered around who I am or what the world thinks my skin means. Id love to be in an action film, like a superhero fantasy-type thing. Thats the type of stuff I love. Its just very rare that I get the opportunity to be in that conversation  absolutely, thats would I would love to do. Foreign film is on my mind. If I could have to learn a language to do something, that would just thrill me to no end.

Do you think Hollywood is making steps in the right direction to provide more opportunities to performers of color?

I couldnt say that. I think sometimes we have a couple steps forward and we have five steps backward. Sometimes we have a couple steps forward, and everyones like all right, great, weve done that this year. And then people arent thinking about it. I think it would be lovely if it wasnt something that we had to actively make a choice to do. That if they just cast somebody because of their work and because theyre really good at what they do. I would love to be able to step into that state. I hope so, but time will tell.

Where do you find inspiration for your work?

I think I draw inspiration from people. When Im in New York and Im walking down the street, everybody I see is some sort of inspiration for what I do. And they fill me. They allow me to create. Im very thankful for each person that I run into, whether we have a one-on-one connection or they never even notice me looking at them, Im thankful for all that humanity gives me daily.

makeda.easter@latimes.com

@makedaeaster
LAPD Chief Charlie Beck and I were chatting over breakfast, and I told him the story of a Border Patrol maintenance man who spent decades repairing holes in the border fence at Calexico.

Some days Albert Garcia welded and patched 10 or 12 holes, finding saws and ropes and ladders near cuts in the iron fence. The next day, hed go back and find more holes, and patch those, too.

I wrote about Garcia in 2004 and called him last week  hes retired now  to ask his thoughts on President Trumps vow to build a wall the length of the border.

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No matter what kind of fence you put in, Garcia told me, its not going to hold anyone back. It doesnt matter how high or wide you build it.

Theres a simple reason for that, Beck said.

We have a very rich country with a lot of opportunity that is immediately adjacent to a poorer country with less opportunity, said the chief. It stands to reason that people will risk everything to head north and escape corruption, poverty and drug crime.

No legal or administrative edict can change this, said Beck. He has publicly refused to comply with Trumps call for police officers to assist federal authorities by detaining undocumented immigrants for deportation.

That is not our job, nor will I make it our job, Beck said in November, drawing a line hes still defending.

Beck is not alone among law enforcement and city officials whove taken this position  city leaders from San Francisco to Chicago to New York have pledged to fight Trumps immigration policies even if it means the loss of federal funding. But Beck stands out among top cops, and has for years, having argued that if undocumented immigrants were to fear deportation, theyd be less inclined to cooperate on criminal investigations.

Is it really all that common for undocumented immigrants to step up as witnesses to crime?

Yes, said Beck. But the issue is bigger than that.

A lot of people think, well, hes talking about witnesses to crime, which I am. But Im also talking about victims of crime, he said.

Beck cited estimates that about 500,000 residents of Los Angeles are undocumented.

When you create a shadow population  that fears any interaction with law enforcement, Beck said, then you create a whole population of victims, because they become prey for human predators who extort them or abuse them because they know they wont contact the police.

Beck, a career cop who is now 63, said he didnt see it this way when he joined the force. But he evolved as he better understood practical realities and the essence of Los Angeles, which implemented Special Order 40 in 1979 to prevent police from doing the federal work of immigration control.

In the mid-1990s, when the state cracked down [on] illegal immigration, all we did was drive people underground, said Beck.

Beck had another awakening just after taking over as chief in 2009.

My daughter comes home, when she was a young police officer, and I asked how it went at work, said Beck. She starts tearing up and I said, Whats the matter, honey. 

His daughter told him about impounding a car in the middle of the night, leaving a pregnant woman and her family to walk through the darkened streets of the Rampart division.

So that helped me realize were doing this wrong, said Beck. We have a system set up here that is penalizing people we should be protecting, and thats when we started to change the impound procedures.

Beck took a storm of criticism in 2012 on two related issues. He supported provisional drivers licenses for undocumented immigrants, saying roads would be safer if drivers were regulated. And he implemented a decree that prohibited 30-day impounds of vehicles in some cases, arguing that undocumented immigrants unable to get drivers licenses were unfairly burdened. Critics howled, and Becks own rank and file sued.

Today, Beck said, his force is about 47% Latino, and many officers have what he called blended families. In other words, theyve got relatives with papers and relatives without. Thats just the way it is, said Beck, because for years, the nation has sent mixed signals on immigration, putting up stop signs while welcoming people into the workforce.

It would be impractical to split families rather than offer some pathway to legal standing, Beck said. A better way to reduce immigration, in his mind, would be to help boost the Mexican economy rather than declare war on a neighbor.

Beck said he grew up in, and raised his kids in, a mixed community. For many years, no one asked about or thought about who had papers and who didnt, even as the population became more Latino.

To think the fabric of Los Angeles is going to change [through a legal edict], Beck said, denies our history.

If the LAPD were forced into the immigration business, Beck said, Its all wed do, instead of focusing on trying to bring crime rates down.

We couldnt deport 500,000 people if we wanted to, and if we did, it would be at the expense of public safety.

If undocumented immigrants are convicted of violent felonies, Beck thinks they should serve their time and then be deported. But the crime rate is no greater among immigrants than the rest of the population, he said.

Beck said he doesnt want to poke the new president in the eye. But with 40 years of experience, he thinks he understands his city and how to best police it, and hes not inclined to bow to simple-minded political rhetoric.

But he could risk millions in federal funding, I said, if Trump decides to punish cities that dont comply.

Id risk losing my beliefs, Beck said if he were to comply. Theres not a price for me to do this differently.

To read the article in Spanish, click here

Get more of Steve Lopezs work and follow him on Twitter @LATstevelopez

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The ponderosa pine had taken root decades before the Revolutionary War, making a stately stand on this western Sierra Nevada slope for some 300 years, Nate Stephenson figures.

Then came the beetle blitzkrieg. Now the tree is a dab in the gray and rusty death stain smeared across the mountain range.

At the base of its massive trunk, a piece of bark has been cut off, revealing an etched swirl of insect trails. Higher up, naked branches reach out, as if from a many-armed scarecrow.

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This was alive until the drought killed it, Stephenson says mournfully.

The U.S. Forest Service estimates that since 2010, more than 102 million drought-stressed and beetle-ravaged trees have died across 7.7 million acres of California forest. More than half of those died last year alone.

Exacerbated by anti-wildfire policies that produced a crowded forest more vulnerable to drought, the massive dieback is unprecedented in the recorded history of the Sierra.

The beetle epidemic is transforming the 4,500-foot to 6,000-foot elevation band of the central and southern range for decades to come, if not permanently. The sheer scale of mortality means that outside of developed areas, its likely that most of the tree corpses will be left to topple over.

It will takes centuries to replace the legions of majestic old pines that have succumbed  if that is even possible in a warmer future that promises to alter the forest in ways ecologists can only guess.

We dont know under the new conditions what things will do well, says Christy Brigham, the top scientist and acting superintendent of Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks.

But shes pretty sure of one thing: The western Sierra pine forest as it was 100 years ago is not coming back.

Research ecologist Nathan L. Stephenson looks over a dead incense cedar tree in a plot of land that ecologists have been studying since 1992 in the Sequoia National Park. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

The world has changed Brigham says. Were never going to be able to get back to where we were before.

::

When the first big patches of forest turned a fatal orange in 2015, We were agog, says Stephenson, a federal research ecologist who has worked in Sequoia National Park for nearly four decades. It was hard to get over.

Now hes used to it.

And he finds comfort in a simple observation: Most of the forest is still there.

Higher elevations have largely escaped the beetle damage. Even in heavily infested areas, there is a mosaic of the living and the dead  patches of green and burnt sienna that from a distance suggest autumn in New England.

If a tree dies, we do an autopsy.  Adrian Das, ecologist with the U.S. Geological Survey

A dead pine tree stands against a backdrop of dead conifers in the Seqouia National Forest. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

The big ponderosa is in a research plot known as BBB, which scientists have monitored since 1992. Oak leaves crunch underfoot as Stephenson and his colleague, ecologist Adrian Das, walk through the stand of pines, fir, oaks and incense cedars marked with metal identity tags.

If a tree dies, we do an autopsy. We look for bugs, we look for fungus, says Das, who like Stephenson, works for the U.S. Geological Survey.

The pines killers left plenty of clues. Western pine beetles squiggles mar the tan inner bark, or phloem, where the dark brown females had tunneled and laid their eggs.

After hatching, the white, legless larvae ate their way into the middle bark, carving up the trees circulation system and cutting off the vital flow of water and nutrients.

The western pine beetle is just one of a number of native bark beetle species whose populations can explode when there is a bounty of easy pickings, such as during Californias protracted drought.

Thirsty trees are too stressed to kick out the rice-sized killers with secretions of pitch. When beetles find a good target, they send out chemical signals that act like a dinner bell, calling their kin for mass attacks. As many as 25,000 western pine beetles can infest a single large ponderosa.

Ecologist Adrian Das, looks over the paths of bark beetles that led to the death of a white fir tree in a plot of land that ecologists have been studying since 1992. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

Some people think some of these trees are coming back to life. Theyre not.  Chris Fettig, U.S. Forest Service research entomologist

Within a few weeks of the onslaught, the tree is dead. But it can take months for the needles to fade.

Some people think some of these trees are coming back to life. Theyre not, said Chris Fettig, a Forest Service research entomologist.

Overall, about a fifth of the trees have died in the ponderosa pine and mixed conifer belt of the park, according to Stephenson and Das. Even after this winters parade of Sierra storms, the deaths will continue, since it takes about a year for trees to recover from prolonged water deprivation and regain their defenses.

None of the species that grow in that zone  typically ponderosa and sugar pines, incense cedar, white fir and black oak  have been immune to the dieback. Although mature giant sequoias have showed signs of stress, they appear to be pulling through the drought, perhaps because they grow in moister forest areas.

Its the fine old pines that have suffered the most.

Stephensons sampling indicates that in the park areas of greatest mortality, about 50% to 70% of big ponderosa and sugar pines have died, compared with 20% to 25% of large white firs and less than 10% of incense cedars. (The cedars dont have a major beetle predator.)

Stephenson, 59, has wandered the Sierra since he was a child backpacking with his parents. The landscape is like a beloved friend.

What is heartbreaking is whats really died off in droves are the big pines, a couple feet in diameter or more, he says. Pines that are hundreds of years old.

Western pine beetles  which, along with mountain pine beetles, attack ponderosas  favor large-diameter trees. A big tree also needs more water and has to work harder to distribute it, making it more vulnerable to severe drought.

The world has changed. Were never going to be able to get back to where we were before.  Christy Brigham, the top scientist and acting superintendent of Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks

Research ecologist Nathan L. Stephenson looks over a dead Ponderosa pine in the Sequoia National Park. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

::

Nature is not the only culprit. Humans helped set the destruction in motion.

Weve produced a forest which basically has too many straws in the ground trying to draw a very limited amount of water, says Malcolm North, a Forest Service research ecologist.

The federal governments 20th century policy of putting out forest fires broke the cycle of frequent, low-intensity burns that had naturally maintained relatively open pine stands on the Sierras western slopes. Heavy logging and replanting in national forests after World War II led to crowded regrowth that never burned.

If wildfire had not been banished, North says, we would not be seeing nearly so much mortality. The thing that is really driving [it] is the high density, and the high density really results from fire suppression.

If there is a silver lining in the staggering tree death, its that the survivors will have less competition. If we go back to nondrought conditions, the remaining trees will be better off, Stephenson says.

The bounty of bugs and ghostly trees is also a boon to cavity nesting birds and woodpeckers.

But from an ecosystem standpoint, many of the wrong trees have died  giant pines that are fire-resistant and provide a kitchen and bedroom for rare wildlife such as the Pacific fisher and spotted owl.

 Getting rid of the massive amounts of dead trees in California has become both a problem and an opportunity.

::

In the Sierra National Forest northwest of the park, Forest Service ecologist Marc Meyer scans the fresh stumps of pines scattered across a picnic area at Bass Lake. The remaining live trees are mostly incense cedar and black oak.

I have to wonder if were going to see a shift to a forest more dominated by oaks or a combination of oaks and conifers, he says.

Downed logs, mounds of chipped trees and raw stumps  some of them huge  dot the lakes misty rim on a winter day. Across the water, the forest is mostly a mortal reddish-brown, promising a depressing lake view for years, if not decades, to come.

As ecologists, were struggling, Meyer says. What restoration steps to recommend when future conditions are so uncertain? What kind of forest to aim for when the past is no longer a valid guide?

For much of the blighted zone, the question may be purely academic. The Forest Service is felling hundreds of thousands of dead trees next to roads and around developed areas for public safety reasons. So far the agency says it has treated 18,000 acres and is working on another 50,000 acres.

But there is a limited market for the salvage wood and a limited Forest Service budget for tree removal.

There are massive areas in the landscape that you will just never get to because the economics dont work out and the mill capacity isnt there and the wood doesnt have much value, North says. Most of those trees are just going to be there and fall over.

Just how great a wildfire hazard that presents is complicated  and debated. A 2015 University of Colorado study of western pine forests with extensive beetle-related mortality concluded those regions have not burned more than healthy forests. And a study of the 2003 wildfires that tore through beetle-ravaged parts of the San Bernardino Mountains found those patches did not burn more severely than stands of live trees.

But generally speaking, fire scientists say the threat of a wildfire racing through treetops increases when dead needles remain on trees. Once they drop, that risk goes way down.

Skip forward 15 or 20 years, and fallen limbs and trunks pile up. That, warns UC Berkeley fire scientist Scott Stephens, turns the forest floor into a tangled mass of fuel. Then we get lightning  and bang, he says.

To lessen the fuel build-up, Stephens says federal land managers should conduct prescribed burns in hard-hit areas.

In two, maybe four years, when all those needles are on the ground and before the big stuff hits the ground, I think you have to start burning in earnest, he says. I just dont know what else to do.

At this point, Forest Service managers say they are too occupied with developed areas to know what they will  or can  do on the broader landscape.

Options include prescribed burning and harvesting dead trees to feed biomass energy plants, says Scott Tangenberg, acting supervisor of the Stanislaus National Forest. But traditional logging, he adds, is certainly an unlikely tool for us.

Stephenson and Das spread out their lunches on Beetle Rock, a large granite outcropping that offers an expansive view from the Sierra slopes across the San Joaquin Valley to the coastal range. Below them is a rippling landscape that the past two years have radically altered.

Im not happy these trees are dead, but its fascinating, Das says. And when this mortality is done, theres going to be a process where new things come in, and we dont know what. Its the beginning of something.

bettina.boxall@latimes.com

Twitter: @boxall

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At least 10 to 15 immigration attorneys have gathered at the Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX international terminal to help travelers, mostly from Iran, who have been detained, one of the attorneys said Saturday.

Attorneys have not yet been able to determine the number of fliers detained, as customs officials are not allowing attorneys or their families any access or communication with the detainees, said immigration attorney Jordan Cunnings.

Were literally walking around, asking people, are you waiting for someone who has been detained? said Cunnings, describing a scene of worried family members who had arrived bearing flowers and welcome signs for their loved ones.

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Some of the detained travelers included green-card holders, tourists, people with children and people with medical problems, Cunnings said.

1 / 62 Supporters of President Trump rally in favor of his immigration ban executive order Saturday at Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) 2 / 62 Protesters rallying against the first travel ban signed by President Trump march around Los Angeles International Airport in February. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) 3 / 62 Trump supporters gather at Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) 4 / 62 Muhaned El Hindi protests the immigration ban Saturday during a rally at Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) 5 / 62 Mathew Woods, a supporter of President Trump, voices support for an immigration ban during a rally at Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) 6 / 62 Passengers stand in the doorway of a baggage claim area to take pictures and video of marchers protesting the immigration ban of President Trump at LAX on Saturday. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) 7 / 62 Supporters of President Trumps travel ban stand across the street from the #NoBanNoWall protesters at LAX on Saturday. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 8 / 62 Cooper Chvotkin, 6, gets a turn to voice his opinion on the megaphone with other protesters at LAX on Saturday. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 9 / 62 Protesters march through the Tom Bradley International terminal at LAX on Saturday to protest President Trumps travel ban. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 10 / 62 Abeer Abdelrahman, left, hugs her sister Areej Ali at the Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX on Monday after Ali, who has a green card, was able to come through the arrivals area with the help of an attorney after being detained and questioned. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times) 11 / 62 Noor Hindi, left, and Sham Najjar, right, join the protest at the Tom Bradley International Terminal at Los Angeles International Airport on Monday. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times) 12 / 62 Attorneys crowd a small table at the Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX on Monday to assist travelers who require help due to President Trumps travel restrictions. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times) 13 / 62 Immigration Attorney Monica Glicken, left, listens to Mohamed, right, as she tries to find travelers to help at the Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX on Monday to assist travelers who require help due to President Trumps travel restrictions. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times) 14 / 62 Hundreds of people protested President Trumps original travel ban at LAX in January. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) 15 / 62 Protesters block traffic at LAX, stranding motorists at the Tom Bradley International Terminal. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) 16 / 62 Demonstrators take a pizza break while blocking traffic on the upper level of the Tom Bradley International Terminal while police monitor the rally. (Patrick T. Fallon / For The Times) 17 / 62 A pro-Trump supporter argues with protesters about the presidents travel ban at the Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX. (Patrick T. Fallon / For The Times) 18 / 62 Hundreds sit in on the arrival level of LAXs Tom Bradley International Terminal, blocking traffic to protest President Trumps immigration order. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) 19 / 62 Airport police plead with protesters to get off the pavement in order to let stranded motorists exit. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) 20 / 62 Protesters block traffic, stranding motorists at the Tom Bradley International Terminal of LAX. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) 21 / 62 Muslims pray as hundreds stand in support on the departure level of the Tom Bradley International Terminal during a protest against President Trumps immigration order. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) 22 / 62 Police position themselves as a man takes photos on the on the departure level of the Tom Bradley International Terminal during protests to President Donald Trumps new immigration order. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) 23 / 62 Hundreds block traffic on the arrival level of the Tom Bradley International Terminal to protest President Trumps immigration order. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) 24 / 62 People gather at the Tom Bradley International Terminal to protest against President Trumps immigration order. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) 25 / 62 A police officer watches protesters at the lower deck of the Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) 26 / 62 People gather at the Tom Bradley International Terminal to protest President Trumps immigration order. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) 27 / 62 Assmaa Kalm, left, and Rosanna Sounbl, right, protest President Trumps travel ban at Los Angeles International Airport on Jan. 29, 2017. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) 28 / 62 Hundreds block traffic on the arrival level of the Tom Bradley International Terminal to protest President Trumps immigration order. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) 29 / 62 Police keep an eye on people who continue to protest at the Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) 30 / 62 Hundreds take part in an impromptu sit-in at the Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) 31 / 62 People hang a banner in support of immigrants on a parking structure across the street from the Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) 32 / 62 Meg Heatherly, 27, of Los Angeles holds a Shame sign during a protest at the Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX on Jan. 29, 2017. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) 33 / 62 Attorney Lisa Smith joins people at LAX who continue to protest President Trumps travel ban. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) 34 / 62 A lone supporter of President Trump and Vice President Pence is protected by police while a large group of people continue to protest President Donald Trumps travel ban at the Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) 35 / 62 Chella, from Sherman Oaks, holds the U.S. flag with words from the tablet on the Statue of Liberty. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) 36 / 62 Hundreds of people gather at Los Angeles International Airport to continue protesting President Trumps travel ban. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) 37 / 62 Donald Trump supporters hold signs across the road from protesters at Tom Bradley International Terminal. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) 38 / 62 A traveler tries to get by protesters at the Tom Bradley International Terminal. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) 39 / 62 Brothers Adam, left, and Noah Reich show their support of immigrants as they join opponents of Donald Trumps new immigration order at the Tom Bradley International Terminal. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) 40 / 62 A traveler tries to get by protesters at Tom Bradley International Terminal. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) 41 / 62 A protester holds up sign at the Tom Bradley International Terminal. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) 42 / 62 Hassan Al Garaawi, of San Diego, right, looks for his mother-in-law Gish Alsaeedi who has been detained at the Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX on Sunday. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles TImes) 43 / 62 Passengers arrive at LAX as protests continue Sunday over President Trumps travel ban. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles TImes) 44 / 62 Izzy Berdan, of Boston wears an American flag as he chants slogans with other demonstrators Sunday during a rally against President Trumps order that restricts travel to the U.S. by people from seven majority-Muslim nations. (Steven Senne / Associated Press) 45 / 62 People gather in Bostons Copley Square to protest the travel ban enacted by President Trump. (Darren McCollester / Getty Images) 46 / 62 Demonstrators gather Sunday near the White House to protest President Donald Trumps travel ban. (Zach Gibson / Getty Images) 47 / 62 People continue to protest President Trumps travel ban on Sunday at Los Angeles International Airport. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles TImes) 48 / 62 Attorney Dana Clausen waits on Sunday to help at the Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX as people continue to protest President Trumps executive order that led to travelers from several majority-Muslim countries being detained upon arrival. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) 49 / 62 Kamryn Taghizadeh, 18, holds up a sign Saturday night as she waits for grandfather Reza Taghizadeh, 78, a minimalist painter who was detained as he arrived at Tom Bradley International Terminal from Iran. The artist and green-card holder was later released. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times) 50 / 62 Reza Taghizadeh, 78, an artist from Iran who holds a U.S. green card, is released after being detained at Tom Bradley International Terminal. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times) 51 / 62 Seattle police use pepper spray and push the last group of protesters out of a Seattle-Tacoma International Airport terminal after giving a final dispersal order at about 2 a.m Sunday. (Genna Martin / Associated Press) 52 / 62 Saffiya Hrahsheh, center, is helped away from police by Liz Bates, left, and others after being pepper sprayed by officers breaking up protests early Sunday at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. (Genna Martin / Associated Press) 53 / 62 Siavosh Naji-Talakar greets his grandmother, Marzieh Moosavizadeh, 75, at LAXs Tom Bradley International Terminal. She was detained upon arriving from Iran. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times) 54 / 62 People arrive and LAPD officers stand by at Tom Bradley International Airport at LAX as the protest continues peacefully. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times) 55 / 62 Protesters gather at Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX to oppose President Trumps refugee ban. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) 56 / 62 Saudia Airlines flight attendants wait to pass through a securioty checkpoint at the Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX on Saturday. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) 57 / 62 Protesters rally against Trumps refugee crackdown at at Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX on Saturday. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) 58 / 62 Protesters gather at Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX to speak out against President Trumps refugee policy Saturday. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) 59 / 62 Protesters march through Tom Bradley International Terminal to voice opposition to President Trumps refugee policy. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) 60 / 62 Protesters rally against the new immigration order at Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) 61 / 62 Protesters hold signs during a protest against Trumps immigration executive order at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City. (Stephanie Keith / Getty Images) 62 / 62 Protesters assemble at John F. Kennedy International Airport after two Iraqis were detained while trying to enter the country. (Craig Ruttle / Associated Press)

One detained traveler was an Iranian woman whod held a green card in the U.S. for five years and whose citizenship swearing-in ceremony is in two weeks, Cunnings said.

The woman has an 11-month old child with her who is an American citizen.

People dont have phone access or communication access to the people waiting for them, or their attorneys, Cunnings said. Its just really heartbreaking.

A candlelight vigil to support Muslim refugees is scheduled for Saturday afternoon at Los Angeles International Airport. Meanwhile, another protest was underway in downtown Los Angeles.

The vigil comes in response to President Trumps executive order suspending refugee arrivals and banning travel to the United States from seven Muslim-majority countries.

The abrupt ban ensnared people from all walks of life who were caught in transit or expecting to soon return to the U.S.  students on a break from studies, business travelers, tourists, even the bereaved who had gone home for a funeral.

The LAX candlelight vigil is being organized by the Service Employees International Union, and several politicians are expected to attend, including Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon. The protest is planned for 5 p.m.

A group of advocacy organizations, including the American Civil Liberties Union, filed a legal action against the policy on Saturday in New York, acting on behalf of two Iraqis who were stopped at John F. Kennedy International Airport hours after the order was signed. The writ seeks the release of the two Iraqis, who hold valid U.S. visas, unless the government can show lawful grounds for their detention.

The groups bringing the action, which also included the International Refugee Assistance Project and the National Immigration Law Center, said a separate motion sets the stage for a larger action involving other would-be refugees, visitors and immigrants stopped at other ports of entry.

carlos.lozano@latimes.com

dakota.smith@latimes.com

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UPDATES:

4:05 PM: This article was updated with more information about the protest.

3:40 P.M.: This article was updated with more immigration attorneys.
Its so large, its easy not to notice it.

Its 400 feet of brick, mosaic tile and glazed terra cotta could be nothing but an odd retaining wall keeping whats left of Ft. Moore Hill from falling.

On the speedway that Hill Street becomes between downtown and Chinatown, a motorist could never appreciate the structures eloquently worded tribute to military service, the pioneering spirit and California history.

Its the most historically and geographically important monument that nobody knows about, said Clare Haggarty, manager of L.A. Countys art collections. Its where Los Angeles really began, and its huge, and so many people dont know it exists.

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Its the most historically and geographically important monument that nobody knows about.  Clare Haggarty, manager of L.A. Countys art collections

Its most distinctive feature, a 77-foot-wide wall of water cascading over multicolored mosaic tiles, has been dry since 1977, possibly contributing to its anonymity.

Now, after 40 years of neglect, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has set aside money to bring the Ft. Moore Pioneer Memorial out of hiding.

Within the next month, scaffolding will rise for the first phase of the renovation, replacing nearly 300,000 tiles that back up the waterfall. Then a shadow of past graffiti will be removed from the brick. Chunks missing from the bas-relief depiction of the citys first Fourth of July will be refilled by hand to match the glazed terra cotta. Then, drought or no drought, the water will flow again.

No firm date has been set for the projects completion, but it would be fitting if it came soon enough for a rededication on July 4, 59 years and a day after its first dedication.

On July 3, 1958, members of the Mormon Battalion of Salt Lake City, some of them descendants of the original military unit that played a key role in early California, reenacted the first raising of the American flag over Los Angeles 111 years earlier.

The memorial commemorates an episode when a battalion of Mormon volunteers stood guard over Los Angeles. The only religiously based unit in U.S. Army history, it had marched nearly 2,000 miles from Council Bluffs, Iowa, to Los Angeles via San Diego for a war that was over by the time it arrived.

The Treaty of Cahuenga, though not the formal end of the Mexican-American War, brought peace to California in January 1847.

Several months later, the Mormon Battalion, joined by the 1st Regiment of Dragoons and the New York Volunteers, observed the first Fourth of July in Los Angeles by raising the U.S. flag on a pole of two spliced logs that was reputed to be 100 feet tall.

Watch a scene that starts at the 46 minute mark of this 1960s TV show to see what the fountain looked like when it running >>

The event took place on the earthen walls of a fort the soldiers were ordered to build in defense of the city. It was named for Benjamin Moore, an officer who had been killed in a battle near San Diego.

The Mormon Battalion was soon discharged, its place in history secured less for military feats than for blazing a southwest route for the settlement of the new U.S. territory where many of the soldiers descendants then settled.

Members of the Mormon Battalion rehearse a ceremony scheduled for July 4, 1956, to mark the raising the July 4, 1847, of the first American Flag on Ft. Moore Hill. (Edward Gamer / Los Angeles Times)

The development of a massive monument was a confluence of two unrelated threads. One was the influence in L.A. society of the Daughters of Utah Pioneers, a group of those descendants, which gained the backing of Los Angeles Times matron Dorothy Chandler and then-L.A. County Supervisor John Anson Ford.

The other was the need for a large wall.

It was a time spanning World War II when a massive reshaping of Civic Center erased much of the areas early history. Along with the fort, two early cemeteries and a hilltop neighborhood of Victorian houses belonging to the citys elite all disappeared in a series of excavations that began in the 1930s to make way for roads and buildings.

Ft. Moore Hill, which once extended from its current stub east to Spring Street, was clipped several times, the last in 1949 to make room for the new Hollywood Freeway.

The scarp that remained on its east side became the canvas for two immigrant sculptors, London-born Albert Stewart and Connecticut-based German native Henry Kreis, according to the Los Angeles County Arts Commission website.

Kreis, who won a competition for the job, designed the terra cotta relief on the south of the waterfall that depicts the flag raising.

A series of vignettes show the Mormon Battalions march, a prairie schooner, a steam locomotive and regional scenes such as orange groves and cattle ranching.

Breaking up the view of the brick wall on the north side, a 68-foot pylon bears the eagle-crested inscription, To the brave men and women who with trust in God faced privation and death in extending the frontiers of our country to include this land of promise.

The last of the 24 pieces of ceramic veneer which make up the American eagle of the Fort Moore Pioneer Memorial is anchored into place by workmen. (David P. Shelhamer / Los Angeles Times)

In what would become an ironic element, one of the vignettes recognizes the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, a sponsor of the memorial, with the inscription: Water and power have made our arid land flourish.

The fountain was turned off in 1977 during a drought. When rains finally returned, it was too late for the 47-foot-tall waterfall. Its mosaic tiles were falling off, and its pumps had been vandalized.

The Pioneer Memorial was all but forgotten, popping up only occasionally in news reports on Fourth of July reenactments of the 1847 flag raising.

In the hope of spurring a revival, a civic group staged an elaborate reenactment in 1997 with nearly 100 costumed soldiers, a 28-musket salute and blast from a period howitzer.

In 2000, at the request of then-Supervisor Gloria Molina, the county did a cost analysis for a restoration. Nothing came of it at the time.

Looking back, Molina told The Times recently, she thought it a shame that the waterfall had been neglected but was conflicted about memorializing the fort. Thats where they were shooting at us from, she said, referring to a clash between soldiers and rebellious campesinos.

She neednt have worried. The fort, erected by hand labor in only a few days, came after the shooting stopped, according to the California State Military Museums website. The battalions military achievement, if any, has been characterized by various sources as buffering Los Angeles from a rumored Mexican counterattack or discouraging Gen. John C. Fremonts aspirations to lead an independent California.

Molinas plan got new life in 2014 amid a general revitalization of the north end of Civic Center.

Theres so much happening with Grand Park and the Hall of Justice reopening, it was time, Haggarty said.

The Board of Supervisors committed about $4.1 million, later increased to $5.5 million, and the city added $500,000.

Donna Williams, who was the consulting conservator for the Hall of Justice and Hollyhock House restorations, will oversee the preservation work, ensuring that it follows U.S. Department of Interior guidelines so the memorial can one day be added to the list of historic sites, Haggarty said.

This recent surge of rain may have spared the county the double irony of turning the water back on during another drought.

But officials are mindful of the need to balance the goals of historical accuracy and water conservation, said David Palma, capital projects manager with the county Department of Public Works.

The cascade that originally gushed like a miniature Niagara Falls will be reduced to a thin layer to eliminate spray, and pumps originally immersed in an 80-foot by 30-foot pool at the foot of the waterfall will be moved to a utility room.

No longer will it be necessary to drain the 64,000-gallon reflecting pool to maintain the pumps.

doug.smith@latimes.com

@LATDoug

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The annual Los Angeles homeless count ended early Friday amid disappointment that the street encampments rankling residents across the city are still on the rise.

The three-day event, which marshaled 7,700 volunteers for a street-by-street hand count of homeless people and encampments, was held to update Los Angeles Countys homeless count, which stood at 47,000 in 2016. Populations in shelters, transitional housing and other facilities are also counted.

New York City traditionally reports the most homeless people in the country, primarily in its extensive shelter system. But Los Angeles has the highest number by far of what are called unsheltered homeless people, living on sidewalks, in cars, campers, tents and lean-tos.

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Their expansion into neighborhoods from Malibu to San Pedro has become a potent political issue for local elected officials, and source of outrage to homeowners.

I am not optimistic, Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority Commissioner Mike Neely said Thursday. It appears the unsheltered are still a problem.

Peter Lynn, the homeless authoritys executive director, said it would be premature to draw conclusions about any facet of the count.

Any anecdotal conclusions about an increase in these categories could be countered by people who report a decrease, Lynn said in a statement.

Mayor Eric Garcetti pointed to the $1.2 billion voters approved at the citys behest to build 10,000 homeless and low-income housing units in the next decade.

Homelessness in Los Angeles will not be solved overnight  it is a long-term crisis that calls for long-term solutions, Garcetti said in a statement.

The count is required to receive funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, which sent more than $100 million in 2015-16 to combat the countys homelessness problem. Total funding for that year was $173 million, including infusions from the city and county.

The LAHSA budget for 2016-17 is $230 million, including $65 million from the county and $60 million from the city, both big increases from the year before. The city and county spend other money separately on supportive services, mental health and housing.

Los Angeles police on Feb. 6 plan to begin enforcing a new ban on living in vehicles near parks, homes and schools. Judging by the count in the Vermont-Slauson neighborhood of South Los Angeles on Thursday night, the new law could cause significant upheaval.

People appeared to be living in cars and vans along multiple streets  some with their heaters running against the chilly night air.

Bobby Trawick, 66, was standing outside his van eating dinner off the drivers seat when the counting crew came by Thursday.

Trawick said he had left a skid row mission for South L.A. because he could earn a little cash working odd jobs in the neighborhood.

The mission was not productive. Its just sitting around watching TV all day, Trawick said.

Yasmin Scott-Halcromb, 41, a USC social work and business graduate student and a count volunteer, awakened a couple sleeping under a pile of blankets pushed up against a concrete block wall in the neighborhood park. They were counted.

A woman came out of a motel and said she had been in the streets with her five children and grandchildren the night before, but had scraped together enough money for a room Thursday night. The family didnt qualify as homeless under federal rules and were not marked on the official tally sheet.

A woman who described herself as an addict rolled her wheelchair frantically down the street to relieve herself in a nearby alley. Another two people lay wrapped in blankets on the grass parkway of a purely residential street.

That shocked me, Scott-Halcromb said.

The homeless authority this year is trying to gauge how many people are released into homelessness from institutions such as jails, hospitals and nursing homes. Los Angeles County Sheriffs Capt. Paula Tokar, who heads the forces population management bureau, said the jail count on any given night has been as high as 3,000 but appears to be leveling out at around 2,000.

Metro officials also will be counting homeless people in train and bus stations. None of these special tabulations will be part of the official federally reported count but will help shape local policy, officials said.

Its been known for many years that institutions such as hospitals and jails and foster care are a feeder into homelessness, said Sarah Mahin, director of policy and planning for the homeless authority.

Also this year, USC is taking over the survey that produces race, gender and other demographic information for the count.

Karen Lincoln, associate professor in the school of social work, said the USC team plans to reach more families and youths, in part through schools. The schools use a broader definition of homelessness than federal housing officials, and report youth homeless numbers vastly greater than those of the federal agency.

The homeless count results will be released in the spring.

gholland@latimes.com

Twitter: @geholland
A 35-year-old Canoga Park man with a yen for lingerie and adult DVDs was sentenced to more than two years in prison Friday following a string of break-ins that earned him the waggish sobriquet of panty bandit.

Carlos Oliva was sentenced to two years and eight months in custody for breaking into several adult or lingerie stores in the San Fernando Valley and fleeing each with thousands of dollars worth of lingerie and DVDs, according to the Los Angeles County district attorneys office.

Oliva had pleaded no contest Jan. 6 to three felony counts of second-degree commercial burglary, prosecutors said. As part of that plea, the defendant agreed to pay restitution to nine burglary victims, prosecutors said.

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A Los Angeles police sergeant caught Oliva in the act Sept. 29, authorities say.

According to police, Oliva had broken into Excitement, an adult store on Ventura Boulevard in Woodland Hills. When the stores burglary alarm went off, the sergeant found him outside the premises, police said.

The business was one of at least 11 lingerie stores burglarized from January to September 2016, police said. Many of the break-ins were committed on the same dates, and some stores were burglarized more than once, prosecutors said.

Oliva was probably reselling the stolen goods, said LAPD Det. Merrill Dunn.

His penchant for breaking into lingerie shops told us this was a matter of organized retail crime, Dunn said, which means hes reselling the merchandise to fences or shipping it out of the country.

veronica.rocha@latimes.com

For breaking news in California, follow @VeronicaRochaLA on Twitter.
Hundreds of California teachers gathered Saturday in downtown Los Angeles to protest President Trumps nominee for secretary of education, calling her an extremist with an anti-public school agenda.

Members of the California Teachers Assn., which represents 325,000 teachers, urged the rejection of Betsy DeVos nomination at her Senate committee confirmation hearing on Tuesday.

Her blatant extremist, anti-public school political agenda violates every students civil rights at the most basic level, the CTA said in a statement. Social justice for all begins with a quality, free public education.

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DeVos, a Republican fundraiser from Michigan, has supported the growth of for-profit charter schools and the use of public money to subsidize tuition at private schools. Although Trump said little about education on the campaign trail, he did at one point suggest that legislation to create a major school voucher program would be one of his priorities for his first 100 days.

On Saturday, the National Education Assn. also issued a statement denouncing DeVos nomination, saying, she would be the first secretary of Education with zero experience with public schools. She has never worked in a public school. She has never been a teacher, a school administrator, nor served on any public board of education.

carlos.lozano@latimes.com

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Barbara Hale, best known for her Emmy Award-winning role as Perry Masons loyal secretary Della Street on the long-running 1950s and 60s TV series starring Raymond Burr, has died. She was 94.

Hale died Thursday, according to her son, actor William Katt, who posted the news on his Facebook page. Katts agent, Jacqueline Sander, said Hale died at home, at peace with her family and friends.

Weve all been so lucky to have her for so long. She was gracious and kind and silly and always fun to be with , Katt wrote on Facebook. Were all a little lost without her but we have extraordinary stories and memories to take with us for the rest of our lives.

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Based on characters in author Erle Stanley Gardners popular mystery series, the hourlong Perry Mason, about a crime-solving defense attorney, ran for nine seasons on CBS, from 1957 to 1966.

Hale viewed the devoted Della as a woman who knew what everybody was thinking.

She was informed and very observant of everything that went on, Hale said of the character in a 1993 interview with the Chicago Tribune. That was my challenge as an actress  to be a necessary part of the office without being too aggressive.

Della was quietly overpowering: She knew when to speak and when to keep her mouth closed.

Hale was a former RKO and Columbia Pictures contract player with a string of movies and TV dramatic anthology series appearances behind her when producer Gail Patrick Jackson offered her the role of Della.

The onetime Chicago fashion model, who was married to actor Bill Williams (TVs Kit Carson) and had young children at home, wasnt interested in working full time on a weekly TV series. But at Jacksons urging, she agreed to read the pilot script.

I called back after reading it and said: Good luck, dear,  Hale recalled in a 1993 interview with the Los Angeles Times, saying she didnt think an actor could sustain Masons lengthy courtroom monologues on a weekly basis.

But when Jackson told her that Gardner had chosen Burr to play Mason, Hale said she thought they had an actor who could pull it off.

Hes so professional and so fine and looks great for the part. Well, I think hes just a marvelous choice, Hale recalled telling Jackson. She said, Now, Barbara. You must do it. 

After discussing the offer with her husband and obtaining a promise from Jackson that CBS was only going to shoot 18 episodes, Hale agreed to play the part. The series she thought would never go beyond 18 episodes earned her the Emmy Award in 1959 and another Emmy nomination in 1961.

She learned early on that her portrayal of Della also had made an impression at home.

When [my son] Billy was in the first grade, we went to school for the first parent meeting, and on his desk were little projects hed made  pictures of Daddy and Mommy and his sister and his animals, she recalled in the 1993 Chicago Tribune interview.

And underneath my picture  hed written in inch-high block letters, This is my mom. I love her. She is a secretary. 

Billy went on to become actor William Katt, which also was his fathers real name.

After Perry Mason went off the air in 1966, Hale served as a commercial spokeswoman for the Amana Corp., played Dean Martins wife in the movie Airport and made TV guest appearances.

In 1985, Burr and Hale reprised their old roles in a reunion movie on NBC, Perry Mason Returns. A major ratings success, it led to 25 more Perry Mason TV movies until Burrs death in 1993.

Hales son Katt played the part of investigator Paul Drake Jr., the son of the character originally played by William Hopper, in a number of the popular TV movies. Hale previously had played the mother of Katts character in the 1978 movie Big Wednesday and in an episode of his early 80s TV series The Greatest American Hero.

She was born April 18, 1922, in DeKalb, Ill., and grew up in Rockford, Ill. After graduating from high school, where she was voted May Queen, she studied at the Chicago Academy of Fine Arts.

Her plans to become a commercial illustrator and portraitist changed after she was spotted on a Chicago street corner by the owner of a modeling agency.

She worked a year and a half as a fashion model in Chicago before RKO saw photos of her and signed her to a contract.

She went on to play leads in films such as West of the Pecos (with Robert Mitchum), Jolson Sings Again (with Larry Parks), Lorna Doone (with Richard Greene), The Jackpot (with James Stewart) and A Lion Is in the Streets (with James Cagney).

While at RKO, Hale met and married her husband, with whom she starred in The Clay Pigeon and A Likely Story. He died in 1992.

Hale is survived by her three children, six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

McLellan is a former Times staff writer.
Emmanuelle Riva, whose unflinching portrayal of an elderly woman in the 2012 end-of-life drama Amour earned her international acclaim and the distinction of being the oldest nominee for a lead actress Oscar, has died. She was 89.

Riva, a star of early French New Wave cinema whose career spanned more than 50 years, died Friday afternoon in a Paris clinic after a long illness, her agent, Anne Alvares Correa, told the Associated Press.

As Anne Laurent in Amour, Riva depicted the slow decline of a proud woman as the ravages of age beset her, a performance film critics lauded both for its power and lack of sentimentality. Alongside French screen giant Jean Louis Trintignant, who played her doting but frustrated husband, the French-language film was a stark portrait of a couples love in the last days of life.

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I was ripe. It was the perfect time for me to become this character, Riva, then 85, told The Times in December 2012. I wasnt playing the part  I was being.

Amour earned her top honors from the French and British film academies, and an Oscar nomination for lead actress, a stunning late-career renaissance in Hollywood, which typically leaves little room for non-English films or actresses of a certain age.

The whole thing is like a fairy tale, she told Londons Observer newspaper in February 2013 shortly before the Academy Awards ceremony, where Jennifer Lawrence won the statuette for Silver Linings Playbook.

That Riva was able to break through that particular glass ceiling was remarkable, said former Times film critic Betsy Sharkey. But her legacy runs deeper. Riva was always drawn to characters who were boundary breakers, risk takers, women of substance. Looking back, its as if her entire career was leading up to Amour.

Before the Oscar-nominated role, Riva had been best known for her part in the 1959 film Hiroshima, Mon Amour, in which she played a nameless French actress engaged in a brief, intense affair with a Japanese architect in post-war Hiroshima.

Michael Haneke, the director of Amour, sent Riva his script after remembering her performance so many years ago. She was extraordinary. So beautiful, emancipated, he told The Times in December 2012 of her Hiroshima role. She wasnt like the pretty girls that we saw everywhere. She was a real woman.

After the success of Hiroshima, Riva became a darling of French New Wave cinema, playing a tortured widow in Leon Morin, Priest (1961), and a miserable wife who tries to poison her husband in Therese Desqueyroux (1962), for which she won the lead actress award at the Venice Film Festival.

Despite appearing in internationally acclaimed films over the years, including Krzysztof Kieslowskis Three Colors: Blue (1993), she remained largely unknown to all but devoted cinephiles.

Ive never wanted to be a star, never, she told the New York Times in January 2013. I tried to do things that pleased me.  It is dreadful to see actors reproducing the same image constantly.

But she also expressed regret for her the dry spells in her career, blaming them on her own highly selective nature. They stopped calling. They forgot me, she said in the Observer interview. You make an empty space, and the empty space comes to you.

She continued to act on the French stage until 2001, and refused to call her Oscar nomination the end to a successful career. Why should I finish? she said in a story for the Daily Beast in 2013. Must I die before I die?

Born Paulette Germaine Riva on Feb. 24, 1927, in Chenimenil, a village in the mountains of eastern France, she was the only child of an Italian-born sign painter and his wife. She was drawn to acting at a young age, performing in school plays and later for a local theater troupe. I enjoyed the idea of transforming myself into someone else, she told the Hollywood Reporter in February 2013.

Her parents objected, so she shelved her ambitions, working as a seamstress after graduating from high school.

But when she saw an advertisement for auditions to a Paris theater school, she knew she had to go. She stood there, a nice little country girl in a little skirt, she later recalled, reciting lines out of Alfred Mussets play, Theres No Trifling With Love.

She would go on to make a career out of love stories.

In 1954, she completed her studies and landed her first role on the Paris stage in George Bernard Shaws Arms and the Man. Four years later, she was cast as the unnamed heroine of Hiroshima, Mon Amour.

Despite her roles, Riva was no swooning romantic, and was known for her fierce independence. She never married and lived in the same Paris apartment for more than 50 years.

Im still a great savage, she told the Los Angeles Times in December 2012. I dont obey every demand. A savage is someone who goes off into the woods and does what she wants.

Once asked whether she preferred being called Madame or Mademoiselle, she replied, I can tell you that I have never wanted to be married and you can call me  as you wish.

Riva had no children, didnt own a television or a cellphone and disliked travel, surrounding herself instead with art and books. Above her fireplace, she kept a chalkboard full of quotes she heard on the radio about freedom and time and love.

A published poet, she also produced a book of photographs she took during the filming of Hiroshima, Mon Amour which was published 50 years after the film.

In her later years, she often walked the Paris streets to people-watch, or sat with the pigeons that visited her apartment window regularly.

If I dont act in another film, who cares? Im 85, it doesnt matter. Im still alive and that feels great, she told Londons Guardian newspaper in February 2013.

I think that being an actor is like being a cat, she added. You have the opportunity to go out and live nine lives. And then you can come home and sleep by the fire.

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For the past two years, a divided America has been on a desperate quest to figure out which political world view is most popular, and thus more powerful, and thus rightfully in control of the nations future. We apparently still dont have an answer.

There were the seemingly endless presidential polls, the election predictors like FiveThirtyEight.com, and, of course, Donald Trump himself, who bragged about his rallies and his TV ratings. Whatever it was, bigger numbers were better: They indicated momentum for the biggest opinion poll of all on Nov. 8.

Except Trumps presidential victory has come and gone, and in a sign of how fractious things have gotten, the quest for quantification rages on: Crowd sizes have lately become one of Americas most important opinion polls, the latest metric to measure the turbulent political winds blowing through the country.

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Over the course of just one week, the National Mall in Washington has held three large political gatherings, each representing three huge constituencies, with each trying to demonstrate popular legitimacy and influence.

Trump supporters made their showing first, on Inauguration Day, as an estimated couple of hundred thousand supporters gathered in front of the U.S. Capitol to watch and hear him become president.

Facing historically low approval ratings for a new president, Trump has tried to argue that his inauguration was the most-watched of all time. He also reportedly pressured the National Park Service to find photos showing that his crowd wasnt smaller than the gargantuan crowd at Barack Obamas first inauguration in 2009, and he continued to litigate the issue in the media.

I looked out, the field was, it looked like a million, million and a half people, Trump said in an appearance at the CIA on Jan. 21, complaining about media coverage that had accurate reflected the attendance of his swearing-in. They showed a field where there were practically nobody standing there. And they said, Donald Trump did not draw well.  Its a lie.

A day after the inauguration, Americas left responded in force, with millions gathering for a massive Womens March, on the Mall in Washington and in cities around the country. An estimated 500,000 alone marched in Washington.

Many of those marchers saw Trump as an illegitimate president: a candidate who received almost 3 million fewer votes than his Democratic opponent, Hillary Clinton. Many also saw the march as new, quantitative evidence of Trumps unpopularity.

The President is not America. We are America! actress America Ferrera declared to the crowd.

Protesters walk during the Womens March on Washington, with the U.S. Capitol in the background, on Jan. 21, 2017. (Mario Tama / Getty Images)

Some conservatives tried to downplay the massive display in D.C. Its almost as if one party has a base of wealthy coastal elites who can travel easily and the other does not, tweeted Conn Carroll, the spokesman for Republican U.S. Sen. Mike Lee of Utah.

Amid all this, on Friday, Americas religious right, which largely supported Trump, swam into the political cataracts as at least tens of thousands gathered for the annual March for Life at the foot of the Washington Monument. (Some photographs suggested the march was smaller than the Womens March crowds, though there were no official counts.)

The March for Life is typically the largest conservative demonstration of the year, a gathering held to rally opposition against the U.S. Supreme Courts landmark Roe vs. Wade ruling in 1973, which defined womens legal right to abort a pregnancy.

Pro-life demonstrators march towards the U.S. Supreme Court during the 44th annual March for Life in Washington on Jan. 27, 2017. (Saul Loeb / AFP/Getty Images)

Its been a good year generally for conservatives opposed to abortion. They stand to pick up a conservative Supreme Court justice and have seen one of their champions, Mike Pence, ascend to the vice presidency.

Yet many on the right had watched the widespread news coverage of the earlier Womens March and wondered why their own annual march doesnt get more attention from the media.

When you looked at how much the networks covered the Womens March even before it happened, they served as press agents for the Womens March, and turned around and said, Look at how successful this was, look how many people attended, said Dan Gainor, vice president of the Media Research Center, a conservative watchdog that has pushed for more mainstream television coverage of the March for Life. That seems a tad unfair.

Gainor pointed to polling showing that Americans are more likely to call themselves conservative than liberal or moderate.

Is CNN going to go live for the whole March for Life? Is ABC going to run an endless live-stream shot? Thats the problem here, Gainor said. This is a big event ... the biggest conservative rally of the year, and we struggle to get coverage for it at all.

Yet some recent polling also shows that public support for abortion legalization is at its highest point in two decades, largely driven by increases in support among Democratic women.

Kristina Hernandez, a spokeswoman for Students for Life, a group that opposes abortion, said about 50 of its members had attended the Womens March and felt vastly outnumbered.

The reaction to the Womens March has overwhelmingly been, If this is what feminism looks like, I want no part of it, Hernandez said.

Ann Grimes-Essay, 56, from Pittsburgh braved the cold Friday to join the March for Life, which she had first attended when she was 14.

She, too, had heard about the Womens March and how an anti-abortion womens group had been prevented from joining the leadership, and she called that a slap in the face to women who believe in respecting all life.

Because of that, Grimes-Essay said, I really think that for most pro-lifers it was very important that we make a stand, to say that were still here.

And so she made her stand, gathering among the thousands to be heard, and to be counted.

Times staff writer Cathleen Decker in Washington, D.C. contributed to this story.

matt.pearce@latimes.com

@mattdpearce

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President Trumps executive order suspending refugee arrivals and banning entry to the U.S. from seven Muslim-majority countries spawned chaos and consternation across the globe Saturday, stranding unwitting travelers, prompting passionate debate over American values and igniting a fierce legal pushback that yielded early court victories for the presidents opponents.

The abrupt ban ensnared people from all walks of life who were caught in transit or expecting to soon return to the U.S.  not only refugees but students on a break from studies, business travelers and scientists, tourists and concert musicians, even the bereaved who had gone home for funerals.

Of all the directives issued during a first jolting week of Trumps presidency, it was this one that reverberated most powerfully in the outside world. Trump and his team insisted the order was not intended to target Islam and its followers, but the hashtag #muslimban trended, and many Muslims both in America and abroad said they viewed the measure as a broadly conceived and stinging exclusion.

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Capping a day of high-stakes drama, a federal judge in New York, Ann M. Donnelly, ordered a halt to deportations of travelers who arrived at airports with valid visas to enter the U.S., saying that sending them back to the affected countries could cause them irreparable harm. But she did not rule on the legality of the executive order, nor did she say that others who have not yet arrived in the U.S. can be allowed to proceed.

Opponents of the presidents directive vowed to seek a wider court win. Lawyers from groups including the American Civil Liberties Union said they intended to press ahead with efforts to overturn the presidents overall order on constitutional grounds. And they rejoiced at their early victory.

Clearly the judge understood the possibility for irreparable harm to hundreds of immigrants and lawful visitors to this country, said ACLU Executive Director Anthony Romero. On week one, Donald Trump suffered his first loss in court.

In a separate and more limited ruling, a federal judge in Virginia ordered a weeklong stay against removing people with permanent U.S. residency who had been detained under the presidential order at Washington Dulles International Airport.

As the directives effects spread, thousands staged spontaneous protests against refugee detention at airports across the country, including in Los Angeles and San Francisco. At New Yorks John F. Kennedy International Airport, demonstrators waved signs and read from the famous Emma Lazarus poem inscribed in the Statue of Liberty.

At more than a dozen airports, including Los Angeles, Newark, Boston, Dallas, Chicago and Atlanta, immigration attorneys stepped up in droves to offer free services to those detained. A lot of tears and emotion here, said Hassan Ahmad, a lawyer from northern Virginia who hustled to Dulles airport.

The New York order appeared to affect the 100 to 200 people who were detained in transit to the United States. While the order will prevent them from being sent home, it was less clear whether they will have to remain in detention while their asylum cases are being decided.

One of the two detained Iraqis named in the case, Hameed Khalid Darweesh, was an interpreter who had worked on behalf of the U.S. government. Freed after 19 hours in custody, he wept as he spoke to reporters, thanking supporters and calling America the land of freedom, the land of rights.

The groups bringing the legal challenge, who also included the International Refugee Assistance Project and the National Immigration Law Center, said a separate motion sets the stage for a larger action involving other would-be refugees, visitors and immigrants stopped at other ports of entry.

Arab American advocacy groups also were reacting to the new order, warning that it was disrupting travel all over the world.

We see complete chaos in the way this has been implemented, Abed A. Ayoub, legal and policy director for the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee, said in a conference call with reporters.

The directive, he said, had caught up not only desperate refugees who had thought themselves within a hairsbreadth of safety, but many more with already established lives, homes and families in the United States. This order needs to be rescinded, he said.

In another legal challenge, the Council on American-Islamic Relations said it would file a federal lawsuit on behalf of more than 20 individuals challenging the order. The suit, to be filed Monday in U.S. District Court in Virginia, argues that the executive order is unconstitutional because of its apparent aim of singling out Muslims.

There is no evidence that refugees  the most thoroughly vetted of all people entering our nation  are a threat to national security, the groups national litigation director, Lena F. Masri, said in a statement. This is an order that is based on bigotry, not reality.

The order, signed Friday by Trump during a visit to the Pentagon, suspends all refugee entries for 120 days. In addition, it indefinitely blocks Syrian refugees and bars entry to the U.S. for 90 days for those traveling from seven Muslim-majority countries: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

Prominent Muslim figures raised their voices in opposition to the temporary refugee ban, saying children would be among those suffering the most from it.

Nobel Peace laureate Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani schoolgirl who was shot by the Taliban, said in a statement that she was heartbroken that Trump was closing the door on children, mothers and fathers fleeing violence and war.

On Saturday, the Department of Homeland Security said the travel ban also covered holders of green cards, who are authorized to live and work in the U.S. Some reports have put the number of such permanent residents from the affected countries as high as half a million.

An administration official said that current green card holders from the affected countries would be allowed to remain in the U.S.  but that those caught outside the country at the time of the bans imposition would have to be allowed back in on a case-by-case basis. Those with business overseas will have to meet beforehand with a consular official.

The measures scope was also widened by a State Department announcement that dual nationals from the seven affected countries who also held passports from third countries such as Britain or Canada could be blocked  in effect denying U.S. entry to citizens of closely allied nations.

As the measures far-reaching impact became clear, and the airport chaos mounted throughout the day, Trump denied it was a Muslim ban and said the process was going smoothly. We were totally prepared, he told reporters in the Oval Office. Its working out very nicely, and were going to have a very, very strict ban.

The move has hit the technology industry, which employs thousands of foreign-born workers, many from Muslim-majority countries. Google Chief Executive Sundar Pichai on Friday slammed Trumps executive order in a memo to employees, saying about 100 employees were affected, and advising those traveling abroad to reach out to the companys immigration teams for assistance.

Investors and start-up employees are worried as well. Tech workers from countries such as Egypt and Jordan fear the list could soon expand to include their countries.

The entertainment world felt repercussions, too. Its uncertain whether Iranian filmmaker and Oscar nominee Asghar Farhadi will be able to attend next months Academy Awards ceremony, though there are artistic waivers to the ban.

Relatives wondered when they would see loved ones again. Iranian American Milad Sharifpour, a physician at Emory University in Atlanta, was worried for his brother, Ali Reza, a green card holder who was in Tehran visiting family when the directive took effect. I am sad, Im upset, and I feel very frustrated, Sharifpour said.

Many feared that what they intended as temporary trips abroad could become prolonged ordeals. A Syrian clarinetist who lives in New York and holds permanent U.S. residency was in the Lebanese capital, Beirut, for a concert when the order took effect.

It left him unsure whether he would be able to go back to his Brooklyn apartment, he said, let alone all the concerts and residencies I have in the U.S. in the coming few months.

He asked not to be identified, because he will soon be trying to return to the U.S.

I am not sure how to describe how I feel, he said. It is certainly not about me; it is about so many individuals whose lives were deeply affected.

Are you an immigrant? We want to hear your story 

The United Nations human rights agency issued a statement calling the long-standing U.S. refugee resettlement program one of the most important in the world. It called on the Trump administration to ensure the U.S. will continue its strong leadership role and long tradition of protecting those who are fleeing conflict and persecution.

We strongly believe that refugees should receive equal treatment for protection and assistance, and opportunities for resettlement, regardless of their religion, nationality or race, the group said.

Across the United States, refugee advocates scrambled to ascertain the status of those who were already en route or about to leave when the order came down. A total of 30 refugees were scheduled to arrive in Atlanta next week from Somalia, Afghanistan, Myanmar and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

All had gone through months of security checks.

This is unprecedented, said J.D. McCrary, executive director of the International Rescue Committees Atlanta office. Im not familiar with anything like this ever happening on such a mass scale in the entire history of this program. Slamming the door on those fleeing persecution is deeply un-American.

In Congress, reaction to the immigration chaos tended to break down along party lines, with vociferous criticism from Democrats while Republicans largely remained silent.

California Sen. Dianne Feinstein said Trump had chosen a dark path, while both Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer of New York and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi of San Francisco said the Statue of Liberty would have wept.

One of the few Republicans to speak out against the directive was Sen. Ben Sasse of Nebraska, who said the order could play into the hands of jihadist groups by being excessively sweeping in nature.

While not technically a Muslim ban, this order is too broad, Sasse said in a statement.

Airports overseas and in the U.S. found themselves at ground zero for the spreading chaos. Five members of one Iraqi family, along with a Yemeni, were prevented from boarding flights in Cairo.

At the Frankfurt airport in Germany, a major hub for travel from the Middle East and onward to Europe and the U.S., more were stranded. A German radio network quoted federal police as saying that 20 people from all seven countries on the list were stuck in the airports transit zone, unable to board flights for the U.S.

In Atlanta, a growing cluster of family members and lawyers gathered Saturday at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport after at least five permanent U.S. residents who had traveled to Iran on vacation were detained by federal immigration officials.

Mansour Kenareh, 55, an Iranian software engineer who lives in Suwanee, Ga., said his brother-in law, his wife and their 10-year-old child had been detained after returning from a vacation in Tehran to visit family.

They have green cards, they have bank accounts, they have a house here, Kenareh said as he paced the arrivals hall of the international terminal after an unfruitful visit to a Customs and Border Protection office. Officials, he said, had detained the family for more than five hours, even though they had lived legally in the U.S. for more than a year.

Sarah Owings, an immigration attorney, said that she had not been allowed to meet with the detained immigrants at the Atlanta airport.

These are people who live here; they have houses, they have dogs, cars, Owings said. This should not be happening. They cant send back a permanent resident without a hearing.

Late Saturday, Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed said that all 11 people who were detained at the airport had been cleared and released.

In Europe, there was blowback from U.S. allies, who have absorbed a wave of refugees over the last two years and are already deeply unhappy with Trump for disparaging the NATO alliance and predicting the breakup of the European Union.

When he rejects the arrival of refugees while Europe has done its duty, we should respond to him, said French President Francois Hollande.

German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel, well aware of Trumps evangelical Christian base of support, said pointedly, Love thy neighbor is part of this tradition, the act of helping others.

On social media, users bemoaned what they said was a blow to what remained of the worlds respect for American ideals.

Fascism USA 2017, tweeted Mona Eltahawy, an Egyptian American author and activist.

The prospect of reciprocal measures was raised almost immediately  a factor that could potentially affect Americans including aid workers, tourists and business travelers. Irans Foreign Ministry, condemning Trumps order, said Saturday that Iran reserves the right of reciprocity, official outlets reported.

Trumps move could also dampen hopes for negotiating the release of U.S. citizens held in any of the affected countries. Several Americans of Iranian descent are imprisoned in Iran on spy charges.

King reported from Washington, Demick from New York and Hennessy-Fiske from Houston. Times staff writers Brian Bennett and Lisa Mascaro in Washington, Melissa Etehad and Kurtis Lee in Los Angeles, Tracy Lien in San Francisco, Shashank Bengali in Mumbai, India, and special correspondents Ramin Mostaghim in Tehran, Nabih Bulos in Beirut and Erik Kirschbaum in Berlin contributed to this report.

laura.king@latimes.com

Twitter: @laurakingLAT

barbara.demick@latimes.com

Twitter: @BarbaraDemick

molly.hennessy-fiske@latimes.com

Twitter: @mollyhf

ALSO

Unknown number of U.S. permanent residents stuck overseas as a result of Trumps immigration ban

Outpouring of criticism over Trumps refugee ban from Democrats in Congress as GOP stays silent

As Trump bans Syrian refugees, a look back at when California welcomed 50,000 displaced people

UPDATES:

10:35 p.m.: This story was updated with details from the Atlanta airport.

9:00 p.m.: This story was updated with additional details about the stay and another court ruling.

7:35 p.m.: This story was updated with a federal judge issuing an emergency stay.

3:18 p.m.: This story was updated with additional reaction from affected families and communities.

12:30 p.m.: This story was updated with additional reaction from officials and family members of those prevented from boarding flights.

10:25 a.m.: This story was updated with additional information from the Department of Homeland Security, and reaction from the high-tech industry and the government in Iran.

9:30 a.m.: This story was updated with additional comments from Arab American groups.

This story was originally published at 9:10 a.m.
Many protesters here knew they could be celebrating a short-lived victory when the Obama administration announced last month that it would not issue a final permit to build the Dakota Access pipeline until it conducted a more extensive environmental review.

Now, after President Trump told his new administration to look for a way to issue the permit, their worries appear to have been well founded.

Oh, I think that pipelines going to get built, said Benji Buffalo, who has camped here since last fall. Trump said so, and hes the law of the land now, right?

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Not that everyone here, including Buffalo, is giving up.

Although the protest camps have shrunk this winter, many of the few hundred people who remain have vowed to stay and fight.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the agency overseeing the pipelines construction in the area, has yet to take any public action on Trumps instructions. A spokesman for the agency said Friday that it was proceeding with the expanded environmental review.

If the new administration stops that review, the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, which has argued that the project threatens its water supply and sacred sites, has promised to fight in court.

But the stability and power of the camps are being tested  and Trumps actions are just one reason why.

After spending much of last year encouraging others to join them in protest, the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe is now urging protesters at the largest camps to leave by the end of this month for liability reasons and [due to] social and financial strain.

Many members of the tribe have grown weary of outside protesters using reservation bathrooms and showers. They worry that the largest camp has become littered with abandoned property and garbage, and they are frustrated that law enforcement, blaming the protests, has closed the main road heading north to Bismarck, the areas largest city.

We understand and acknowledge the power of the camps in bringing us this far in our fight against the Dakota Access Pipeline, the tribal council wrote on Thursday in a message on Facebook. We maintain, however, that given current conditions, both physical and political, the focus must shift from maintaining camps to being at the political and legal forefront.

The council warned that the Trump administration will not respond to the camps with moderate actions and said the tribe did not want to put its citizens in danger or jeopardize its success in fighting the pipeline.

The statement followed a lengthy meeting the previous night between tribal officials, including Chairman David Archambault II, and North Dakotas new Republican governor, Doug Burgum, at the reservations Prairie Knights Casino.

For many in the tribe it was noteworthy that Burgum, unlike his predecessor, Jack Dalrymple, visited the reservation while the protests are underway.

Burgum, a North Dakota native who made a fortune selling his company, Great Plains Software, to Microsoft more than a decade ago, supports the pipeline. But he has expressed a desire to understand each tribes individual issues and circumstances so that we may move forward together toward greater mutual respect, harmony and prosperity, as he put it in his first State of the State speech this month.

Among the topics discussed at the Wednesday meeting were clearing the camps and opening the road, which Burgum signaled could happen. The council issued its statement about the camps the next day, saying it needed to focus our energy on the intense government-to-government political situation and not the camps.

The governor, the council and meteorologists have also emphasized a threat that has nothing to do with politics: springtime floods that could start as early as March.

The first protest camp here was established last spring on a bluff high above the confluence of the Missouri and Cannonball rivers. Over the summer, hundreds more people from across the country formed other camps in the closest unoccupied land they could find  the low flats near where the rivers meet.

At first, the protesters pitched tents and teepees, but as the weather grew colder, some set up sprawling military-style barracks, wood-framed structures and prefabricated shelters and solar panels.

The reason the land was unoccupied, however, is that it is a floodplain.

They should all be worried about it, said Allen Schlag, a hydrologist with National Weather Service in Bismarck. Its a legitimate risk. I would say theres about a 50-50 chance that where the campsite is will have water on it by the spring. Theres greater risk this year than there is in a normal year. They simply have more water on the ground.

In recent weeks, some protesters have left, but others have moved their sites to higher ground, saying they have already endured the brutal summer heat, clashes with law enforcement and winter conditions that have taken temperatures well below zero on some nights and coated the horizon in snow and ice.

In its statement Thursday, the tribal council said it would not attempt to forcibly remove any protesters, though it warned that law enforcement might.

Please do not return, the council wrote, but instead put your heart and effort into supporting the battle for clean water from your various homes around the globe.

That same day, 29-year-old Damian Archambault, a distant relative of the tribal chairman, said he and many others knew about the request but did not plan to heed it.

Even with that deadline, were still going to stay, he said. We really feel that we should stay.
If its been an unaccountably long week for you too, then maybe its time to head to the mall. Not kidding, at least if you love ramen as much as most of us do. Because not only is Din Tai Fung at the mall in Glendale, theres now a branch of one of the best ramen shops in Southern California there too. So maybe stop in for a bowl of tsukemen at the Tsujita  Jonathan Golds latest restaurant review  before you head up to Mammoth or Mountain High. You may need all that pork-intensive nourishment while you wait in those long lines.

If ramen isnt your thing (really?), then you might visit one or two of the notable neighborhood restaurants that are closing their doors, either in a few days or a few weeks. Or a few of those that are opening their doors. Or maybe one of the restaurants on Jonathans list of great places to celebrate the Chinese New Year. And even if youre not heading to the slopes or to get in line at Chengdu Taste, remember to look up at the snow-covered San Gabriels.

 Amy Scattergood

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Ramen in the mall

This week, Jonathan Gold heads to the Americana at Brand, where he finds creditable bowls of ramen at the Tsujita, the new branch of the Tokyo ramen shop that has drawn long lines of noodle-lovers to Sawtelle Boulevard for the last few years. So: the same great bowls of tonkotsu ramen and tsukemen, now in a swank, enormous, very well-lit dining room. And if you like to shop, as some people do, theres a Nordstrom too.

Ramen chefs Yuta Soma, left, and Tomotsugu Kubo at the Tsujita in Glendale. (Christina House / For The Times)

Last caneles at Canele

After a decade anchoring the neighborhood dining scene in Atwater Village, chef Corina Weibel is closing her restaurant Canele. But fear not: The new restaurant in the same space, Journeymen, will be helmed by two Gjelina alums, who plan to offer vegetable-oriented, farm-driven dinners, hopefully before summer. Meanwhile, time to order another omelet with herb salad or support Weibels Friends Cook project while you still can.

The dining room and kitchen at Canele in Atwater Village. Chef Corina Weibel is selling her restaurant after a decade of serving the neighborhood. (Spencer Weiner / Los Angeles Times)

When one restaurant door closes

In other restaurant news, two more veteran L.A. chefs are closing their restaurants  Neal Fraser is closing his Beverly Boulevard restaurant BLD and Hans Rockenwagner is shuttering 3 Square Cafe in Venice  while the new hot chicken joint Hotville opens in Chinatown. Wait, theres more: Mezcalero has opened in DTLA, and a hot dog pop-up finds a permanent home in Koreatown.

Diners prepare to dig in at BLD restaurant on Beverly Boulevard. The restaurants last night of service will be Jan. 31. (Ringo H.W. Chiu/ For The Times)

Your vegan taco update

If youre a fan of Danny Trejo, and who is not, then youve likely been to one of the veteran actors two taquerias. If you like to cook your own tacos, Trejo and his exec chef, John-Carlos Kuramoto, have given us the recipe for their understandably popular cauliflower tacos, which are vegan. Just in time for your Super Bowl party, if your idea of fun  and why would it not be  is eating tacos while watching Bill Belichick scowl on the sidelines.

1 / 6 The rainbow cauliflower taco with grilled corn and cashew puree is a vegan-friendly menu item at Trejos Cantina in Hollywood. (Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times ) 2 / 6 Actor Danny Trejo has opened Trejos Cantina in Hollywood. (Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times) 3 / 6 Actor Danny Trejo, right, and chef John-Carlos Kuramoto cook up their vegan cauliflower taco at Trejos Cantina in Hollywood. (Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times) 4 / 6 Actor Danny Trejo, left, and chef John-Carlos Kuramoto cook up their vegan cauliflower taco at Trejos Cantina in Hollywood. (Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times) 5 / 6 The rainbow cauliflower taco with grilled corn and cashew puree is a vegan-friendly menu item at Trejos Cantina in Hollywood. (Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times) 6 / 6 Actor Danny Trejo has opened Trejos Cantina in Hollywood. (Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

Jonathan Golds 101 Best Restaurants, the authoritative annual guide to local dining, is online for subscribers and now features his 2016 Best Restaurants. If you didnt get a copy of the booklet, you can order one online here.

City of Gold, Laura Gabberts documentary of Jonathan Golds Los Angeles, is available on Amazon.

Check us out on Instagram @latimesfood

In the Kitchen: Sign up for our weekly cooking newsletter

Check out the thousands of recipes in our Recipe Database.

Feedback? Wed love to hear from you. Email us at food@latimes.com.
With his caricature of The Court of Donald I on Sunday, artist Steve Brodner prompted a reader response that fits in neatly with the broader public opinion on President Trump: Youre either fiercely for or against him, with the middle ground sparsely inhabited.

Brodners piece, based on a 19th century masterpiece depicting King Charles IV of Spain, drew nearly two dozen reader responses. About half the letter writers declared the op-ed art prize-worthy; to the other half, it was a disgrace to journalism.

Is this a preview of public discourse over the next four years?

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Fullerton resident John Flocken thought Brodners piece was garbage, literally:

I threw my Sunday Times in the trash.

Does Trump deserve the artists stinging and truthful satire? Yes, of course.  Jeanne S. Morgan, Santa Barbara

How could you publish such a revolting parody illustration of the new president of the United States, his associates and appointees  and his wife and family? It was disgusting, beyond belief. This is the op-ed page of the Los Angeles Times?

Well, I hope George Soros or some other liberal billionaire will be funding you in the future, because youre not getting any more money from me.

Ralph Manker of Torrance describes the artwork as magnificent:

Congratulations to Brodner. He did a magnificent job of portraying the Trump family, the cabinet, and the people behind the scenes whispering in the kings ear.

Im sure they all feel pretty smug at this point, just having assumed power. I hope they keep in mind the large opposition still active in this country. Last Saturdays Womens March should be a reminder.

At some point we need a government that can mediate and compromise.

Francis Allen of Fountain Valley criticizes Brodner partly on artistic grounds:

Francisco Goyas Charles IV of Spain and His Family is considered a masterpiece. What made this painting so exceptional was Goyas willingness to paint the kings family without flattery and an innovative composition using a mirror to reflect the king and queen observing Goyas work in progress.

Brodners caricature of Trump seemed to have no relevance to Goyas work. Why is it that The Times devoted two pages to push a political agenda? I subscribe to a newspaper, not a political pamphlet.

Jeanne S. Morgan of Santa Barbara encourages other artists to depict Trump satirically:

Strong thanks for Brodners powerfully eloquent satire of Trumps ascension, appropriately printed as a keeper for mass consumption. Cheers for the editor who placed this inspiring artists savage truth on the final pages as a perfect climax to your historic pictorial record of post-inauguration international dissent.

Does Trump deserve the artists stinging and truthful satire? Yes, of course. A person cruel enough to mock a disabled man and to laugh at grief is a pure inspiration for the artists who can eviscerate a subject with the inspired precision of dissenters such as Brodner and the entire Fourth Estate.

Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion and Facebook
To the editor: The U.S. Constitution can protect our state against President Trumps threats to withhold federal funds from so-called sanctuary jurisdictions if we dont comply with his immigration edicts. (Trump versus California: The feud turns from rhetorical to real, Jan. 26)

In 1999 the U.S. Supreme Court told us in Davis vs. Monroe County that federal spending power, if wielded without concern for the federal balance, has the potential to obliterate distinctions between national and local  power by permitting the federal government to set policy in the most sensitive areas of traditional state concern. Those areas include police, safety, health, transportation, welfare and more.

Also, though federal money can be granted with conditions attached, the Court reiterated in the 2012 case concerning the Affordable Care Acts individual mandate that any such conditions must be unambiguous so that a state at least knows what it is getting into. Undoubtedly, the federal laws under which California receives the money in question do not hint that it could be taken away if a state doesnt comply with a presidents immigration demands.

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Finally, in the 1937 case Steward Machine case, the Court held that conditions on federal money may not cross the point at which pressure turns into compulsion against the states. The Court relied on this principle in the healthcare case to strike down forced Medicaid expansion in the states; California could be protected similarly.

Ira Spiro, Los Angeles

The writer teaches constitutional law at Peoples College of Law in Los Angeles.

..

To the editor: California will get its just deserts for its arrogance. Its leaders have declared that they known better and will decide which laws to follow and which to ignore. But when it comes to federal dollars, these same condescending political leaders howl with indignation when there are consequences for their arrogance.

It seems California leaders believe they are blessed with governing abilities not found anywhere else. They do not feel bound by the pedantic rules that the rest of the nation labors under.

I have a simple suggestion: Secede. Get away from those rubes who dont have our gift. But down the road, after taxes soar even more, welfare rolls swell and businesses flee to avoid paying homage to the social engineers, we should not ask to rejoin the union.

Joseph Schillmoeller, Gardena

..

To the editor: There may some logic behind the position taken by the state, but I am unable to comprehend, with all my mental efforts, what it is.

Trump is going to fight those who violated immigration law. However, some cities in California have policies that effectively protect those violators.

Do the two sides live on different planets?

Vladimir Bogorad, Chatsworth

..

To the editor: Trump refuses to release his tax returns. He boasted in the debates that he avoids paying taxes because he is smart. Now he wants to use our money to construct a multibillion dollar border wall, expand authority to deport thousands, increase the number of detention cells and punish cities and states that refuse to cooperate.

California is clearly his target, as are all citizens who treasure freedom, liberty and justice. Where are the courageous representatives in Congress?

Study the run-up to Nazi Germany or other repressive regimes. God help us.

Eileen M. Elvins, Dana Point

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In the 2018 governors race, Gavin Newsom leads the pack in fundraising Gavin Newsom, the first major candidate to jump into CA's 2018 governor's race, narrowly lead the pack in 2016 fundraising w/ $4.27 million  Phil Willon (@philwillon) February 1, 2017 Facebook

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Schwarzenegger: Were going through some difficult moments ... but I guarantee we will work our way out of this By Seema Mehta (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) Former Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger said Tuesday that the United States had faced trying times and political crises before, and has always persevered. Yes, were going through some difficult moments right now, as we have in the past, but I guarantee we will work our way out of this, Schwarzenegger said, speaking at an electoral reform event at the University of Southern California. He recalled immigrating to the United States and seeing the violent protests at the Democratic National Convention in 1968, Watergate and the economic troubles during President Jimmy Carters tenure. One thing you can count on in America is even though it falls every so often  as we all do  it dusts itself off, gets up and gets going again, Schwarzenegger said. That is why  its the number one country in the world. Although Schwarzenegger did not mention President Donald Trump by name during his remarks, the comments appeared to be a reference to the turbulence since Trump took office less than two weeks ago. Tensions between Schwarzenegger, who replaced Trump as the host of Celebrity Apprentice, and the new president and fellow Republican have been escalating. On Monday, Schwarzenegger called the implementation of Trumps temporary ban on immigration from several Muslim-majority countries crazy. The previous week, Schwarzenegger slammed Trumps pick to lead the Environmental Protection Agency, Oklahoma Atty. Gen. Scott Pruitt, as a hypocrite. Earlier in January, Trump mocked Schwarzenegger for the first ratings of Celebrity Apprentice after the former governor took over as the host. During the presidential campaign, Schwarzenegger repeatedly made clear his disdain for Trump, pointedly casting his ballot in the California primary for Ohio Gov. John Kasich after he had dropped out. On Tuesday, Schwarzenegger was headlining an event about redistricting reform at his namesake institute at USC. He did not respond to reporters questions after the event. While governor, Schwarzenegger championed electoral reform, including an ultimately successful effort to take the redrawing of congressional and legislative districts away from politicians and give them instead to an independent commission. Both political parties have long tried to use gerrymandering to create districts that favor their politicians. But David Daley, author of The True Story Behind the Secret Plan to Steal Americas Democracy, argued that Republicans were able to make unprecedented changes in the 2010 redistricting that will have long-lasting effects on this nations politics because of a confluence of factors, including unprecedented technology such as mapping software, and a flood of anonymous money due to the Citizens United ruling. In 2010, gerrymandering enters its steroid era, Daley said. The end result, he said, was that while the nation remained relatively closely divided between the two parties, the GOP was able to exponentially expand its hold of statehouses, governors mansions and congressional seats. Speakers urged Californians to take the lessons they had learned through the states redistricting reform and try to help voters apply them in other states, through the initiative, or legislative or legal systems. We are the model for the rest of the nation and that is why we in California have to do everything we can to pull together all the things that happen successfully in California and nationwide, Schwarzenegger said. Because the rest of the states are waiting for us. Facebook

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Top Democratic donor Tom Steyer is planning a larger role opposing President Trump By Chris Megerian On Sunday, Tom Steyer was holding a cardboard sign saying not on my watch at San Franciscos airport, one of thousands protesting President Trumps order preventing visitors from several predominantly Muslim countries. I went out there to participate, but also to listen, he said. Like other liberal leaders, hes been hunting for the right approach to counter Trump. Now the deep-pocketed Democratic donor is launching a new effort that could expand the scope of NextGen Climate, the San Francisco-based organization he created and funded. Although Steyer expects to stay active on environmental issues  the onetime hedge fund manager is best known for advocating stronger steps to fight climate change and support clean energy  hes looking to play a more expansive role in opposing Trump. The number of issues that have to be addressed are broader, he said in an interview, pointing to Trumps statements on issues such as voting that he considers to be a broader attack on fundamental American rights. In a video posted on Tuesday night, Steyer says, I promise to do everything in my power to stand up to Trump and asks for the publics thoughts on what next steps should be taken. Steyer spent $74 million in the 2014 midterm election, and then millions more last year to support Hillary Clinton and other Democrats. Although results have been mixed  Republicans gained ground in both years  Steyer said the experiences have positioned NextGen to educate and mobilize voters across the country. There are very few people who are set up organizationally to do what were trying to do, he said. Steyer has already played a role in opposing Trumps nominees, running advertisements criticizing his choice for secretary of State, former Exxon Mobil Chief Executive Rex Tillerson. Besides simply fighting Trump, Steyer also hopes to project an alternative view of the country  one that comes with a dose of California sunshine. America can pursue a much more optimistic, a much more prosperous, a much more equitable and a much healthier future, he said. Facebook

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Former aide is preparing to run for Rep. Grace Napolitanos seat if she retires By Javier Panzar Rep. Grace Napolitano (D-Norwalk), who turned 80 last year, has not made plans to retire. But one San Gabriel Valley politician is raising funds to run in case Napolitano does decide to bow out after 10 terms in Congress. Mary Ann Lutz, the former mayor of Monrovia and a former aide to Napolitano, reported having $101,000 in the bank to run for Napolitanos 32nd Congressional District seat, according to a new filing with the Federal Election Commission. But Lutz says she will run only if Napolitano retires. I have enormous respect for my former boss, Congresswoman Grace Napolitano, and would never run against her for any office, Lutz said in a statement. In the event that the 32nd Congressional District seat eventually opens up, I plan to run, and run aggressively. Napolitano suffered a minor stroke last February that affected her ability to write and slightly slowed her walk. She continued her reelection campaign and beat state Assemblyman Roger Hernandez (D-West Covina), who effectively ended his campaign in August after a judge granted his ex-wifes request for a domestic violence restraining order against him. During an interview with The Times a day before the November election, Napolitano said the health of her 90-year-old husband would be a key factor in her decision on whether to run for an 11th term in 2018. I would love to stay but it depends, she said. I will be ready to hang it up when I am ready. Lutz was elected in 2003 to the City Council in Monrovia, a city of 36,000 in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, and was elected mayor in 2009. She lost her reelection bid in 2015 and went on to work for Napolitano as an advisor on water issues. Lutz raised $26,000 and loaned her campaign committee an additional $75,000. Napolitano has $144,692 in the bank if she wants to run again. Facebook

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State Senate committee votes in favor of funding legal aid for immigrants in California facing deportation By Jazmine Ulloa (John Moore / Getty Images) A state legislative bill seeking to expand legal services for immigrants in the U.S. illegally moved out of the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday on a 5-2 vote. The bill, introduced by state Sen. Ben Hueso (D-San Diego), would create a legal defense program funded with state money that would provide lawyers for immigrants caught in deportation or removal proceedings. It comes roughly three years after the Unaccompanied Undocumented Minors program began providing state-funded legal services for young refugees fleeing gang violence in Central America. Hueso said the measure faced new urgency given President Trumps executive orders last week on immigration. This is a bill protecting Californians, protecting their families, but also protecting Californias economic prominence, Hueso said. I hope we can all stand united on this and say, Yes, we stand by our immigrant community in California. Members of the committee raised concerns about whether it whittled away at defense services available for detainees convicted of certain crimes  and over how the state would be able to afford it amid a looming deficit and budget cuts from the federal government. It is well-meaning, but it is a whole different agency that we are setting up in an expedited way, Sen. Bob Wieckowski (D-Fremont) said. Read More Facebook

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California assemblyman wants state to make cleaner purchases By Chris Megerian (Alexis Cuarezma / For The Times) A California lawmaker wants state officials to consider greenhouse gas emissions when making new purchases, a proposal that would add a new wrinkle to the bidding process for government contracts. Assemblyman Rob Bonta (D-Oakland) said the legislation (AB 262) would harness the states enormous buying power to support clean manufacturing. The measure, which includes state agencies and university systems, would affect the purchase of materials such as asphalt, cement, steel and glass for projects such as hospitals, dormitories and roads. Companies bidding on state contracts would be required to report greenhouse gas emissions generated by the manufacturing and transportation of supplies. Officials would then factor that information into their decision. Given Californias goal of slashing emissions, Bonta said he hopes that the legislation puts the states money where its values are. He doesnt expect the requirement to report more information would be a significant burden on companies seeking contracts. This will just be one more piece of information that will need to be added, he said. Facebook

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First of several immigrant protection bills clears state Senate Public Safety Committee By Jazmine Ulloa (Justin Sullivan / Getty Images) As national debate and protests have taken place over President Donald Trumps executive actions on immigration and refugees, the state Senate Public Safety Committee on Tuesday passed the first of several bills aimed at protecting immigrants in California. Senate Bill 54, introduced by Senate President pro Tem Kevin de Leon (D-Los Angeles), would prohibit state and local law enforcement agencies from using resources to investigate, detain, report or arrest persons for the purposes of immigration enforcement. The proposal, dubbed the California Values Act, also aims to protect immigrants personal data, requiring state agencies to review their confidentiality policies and to ensure that they are only collecting information necessary to their departments. It moved out of committee with a 5-2 vote. Long line of advocates, lawyers in support SB 54, prohibiting law enforcement agencies from using resources for immigrants enforcement. pic.twitter.com/G0IV9ihRjE  Jazmine Ulloa (@jazmineulloa) January 31, 2017 The bill seeks to strengthen immigrant protections threatened under Trumps executive actions. In orders signed last week, the president pledged to cut federal dollars from so-called sanctuary cities, which have policies limiting the cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. At a committee hearing Tuesday, De Leon said the proposal builds on the California Trust Act, which Gov. Jerry Brown signed in October 2013. The state law prevents law enforcement agencies from detaining immigrants longer than necessary for minor crimes so that federal immigration authorities can take them into custody. A long line of immigrant advocates, lawyers and lobbyists rose in support of the bill, saying it would continue to help law enforcement officials build trust within immigrant communities and allow more victims and witnesses to report crime. Democratic members in the committee urged their Republican colleagues to vote for the legislation and move away from Trumps rhetoric, which they said stereotyped immigrants as criminals. They pointed to low crime rates in immigrant communities and stressed that many police chiefs do not want to enforce immigration laws. Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley), chair of the committee, said people across California were under economic stress that could be manipulated into fear. All of us want hardened criminals prosecuted under the law, she said. All of us. But what we are watching now is a pitting of people against each other, a targeting of immigrants. Opponents were not swayed. They said the bills language was too broad and could prevent communication among police agencies at different levels of government, allowing dangerous criminals to escape prosecution. Im concerned that you are basically making the state of California a de facto sanctuary state, Sen. Jeff Stone (R-Murrieta) told De Leon. Facebook

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California lawmakers seek stricter enforcement, more transparency at state toxics control agency By Melanie Mason Jose Gomez, at his home on South Hicks Avenue in East Los Angeles, is among thousands whose yards have been tested for contamination from the former Exide plant. (Gary Coronado / Los Angeles Times) Assembly Democrats unveiled a package of five bills Tuesday aimed at reforming the state agency tasked with regulating toxic substances. The Department of Toxic Substances Control has been roundly criticized for its flat-footed response in regulating and cleaning up pollution from the now-closed Exide battery recycling plant in Vernon. A Los Angeles Times review in 2015 found the department knew for years that the plant was violating environmental regulations but was slow to act on it. Too many communities, including communities I represent, have been harmed by toxic emissions that were released into their neighborhoods  emissions that could and should have been stopped, Speaker Anthony Rendon (D-Paramount) said in a statement. The goal of this legislative package is a more transparent, accountable, and responsive Department of Toxic Substances Control  and safer and healthier communities throughout California. The proposed legislation includes: AB 245 by Assemblyman Jimmy Gomez (D-Los Angeles), which would require hazardous waste facilities to comply with higher financial assurance requirements to make sure there are adequate funds for contamination cleanup.

AB 249 (Gomez), which would increase maximum penalties the department can assess to match what the federal government can assess in similar situations.

AB 248 by Assemblywoman Eloise Gomez Reyes (D-San Bernardino), which would require hazardous waste facilities to submit permit renewals two years prior to the current permits expiration to avoid lapses.

AB 246 by Assemblyman Miguel Santiago (D-Los Angeles), which would promote the use of fence line monitoring by facilities to better detect leaks.

AB 247 by Assemblywoman Cristina Garcia (D-Bell Gardens), which would create a statewide task force focused on reducing lead poisoning in the state. Facebook

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Sen. Dianne Feinstein says she will vote no on Jeff Sessions nomination for U.S. attorney general By Sarah D. Wire California Sen. Dianne Feinstein announced this morning that she will vote no on the nomination of Alabama Sen. Jeff Sessions for U.S. attorney general. The statement comes after protestors visited Feinsteins home and office out of concern that she may vote in favor of the nomination. Protesters marched on her home and California offices last night. #CASen https://t.co/U0HhsJxwTB  Sarah D. Wire (@sarahdwire) January 31, 2017 JUST NOW: On Sessions attorney general nomination: I must vote no. pic.twitter.com/lfQnX5Khug  Sen Dianne Feinstein (@SenFeinstein) January 31, 2017 It is very difficult to reconcile for me the independence and objectivity necessary for the position of attorney general with the partisanship this nominee has demonstrated, Feinstein said Tuesday. We are being asked to determine whether this nominees record demonstrates that he will have the objectivity to enforce the law for all Americans and be an independent attorney general and not an arm of the White House. Feinstein is the ranking Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee, which votes today on the confirmation of Sessions to be President Trumps attorney general. Feinstein pointed to former acting U.S. Atty. Gen. Sally Yates as an example of what she is looking for. Yates was fired Monday, just hours after she announced that the Justice Department would not defend Trumps controversial executive order banning refugees and travelers from certain countries. Yesterday, early in the evening, we clearly saw what a truly independent attorney general doesI have no confidence that Senator Sessions will do that, Feinstein said. Instead, he has been the fiercest, most dedicated, and most loyal promoter in Congress of the Trump agenda, and has played a critical role as the clearinghouse for policy and philosophy to undergird the implementation of that agenda. Facebook

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Where do Californias members of Congress stand on President Trumps refugee order? By Sarah D. Wire Noor Hindi, left, and Shah Najjar, middle, join the protest at the Tom Bradley International Terminal at Los Angeles International Airport on Monday. (Al Seib/Los Angeles Times) President Trumps executive order Friday, which blocked U.S. entry to refugees and nationals of seven Muslim-majority nations, brought thousands of Americans to the nations airports in protest over the weekend. Several Democrats from Californias 54-member congressional delegation joined constituents at airports, and lobbied customs and Border Patrol officials to release the detained visa holders. Many of the states 14 Republican representatives were initially silent on the executive order. Several have since voiced their support, while others were critical of the orders rollout. Heres a look at what each member of the California congressional delegation has said about the executive order: Read More Facebook

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California state Senate passes resolution condemning President Trumps refugee ban By Jazmine Ulloa Protesters are held back by airport police on Sunday at LAX. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) After nearly two hours of debate, the state Senate on Monday passed a resolution that condemned President Trumps executive order banning immigrants and refugees from seven predominantly Muslim countries, calling it discriminatory overreach. Democrats introduced the resolution after the presidents order Friday spurred a weekend of protests and chaos at airports across the country. The resolution denounces Trumps actions and urges the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to comply with federal court orders permitting detainees to have timely access to counsel. It cleared the Senate floor with a 26-11 vote largely along party lines, reflecting the national rift over Trumps immigration order. Two Republican members abstained. On the Senate floor, Democrats called the executive order an affront on religious freedom that panders to fear and foments discrimination, and said it would not further public safety. Reaching to members across the aisle, they said the resolution was not about partisanship or opposing Trump, but about protecting American institutions. In a fiery speech, state Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) said the order is unconstitutional and violates fundamental rights. You see this is how we end up with fascism and totalitarianism, she said. Sen. Holly Mitchell (D-Los Angeles) said she did not want four more years of executive orders crafted in the cover of darkness. But Republican members said that President Obama had taken similar actions and that they had a duty to their constituents, who were worried about national security and a vetting process they said did not stop terrorists from entering the nations borders. Obama has rejected comparisons of his policy to Trumps. We do not welcome those who have come here to harm us, Sen. Jim Nielsen (R-Gerber) said, urging a no vote. We cannot ignore contemporary reality. Our enemies do not reside beyond our shores. They are within. The resolution states that 134 million people are temporarily barred from entering or reentering the United States, including nationals with dual citizenship. Hundreds of thousands with visas are also blocked, it says. The resolution also denounces the manner in which the executive order was executed, saying it was not fully vetted by the departments tasked with protecting the nations national security interests. Facebook

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State attorneys general met in Florida to strategize on how to counter Trump, Becerra says By Patrick McGreevy California Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra. ((Gary Coronado / Los Angeles Times) ) A joint statement by 15 attorneys general over the weekend condemning President Trumps refugee order grew out of a meeting in Florida between California Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra and some of his concerned counterparts, Becerra said Monday. Becerra gathered Thursday in Fort Lauderdale with other attorneys general, including Washington Atty. Gen. Bob Ferguson, to strategize about responding to the Trump administration on various issues. The meeting took place at the annual winter conference of the Democratic Attorneys General Assn. Several of the AGs have been in communication, Becerra said in an interview with The Times. We made it very clear in our joint statement that we are going to do everything we can to make sure that the unlawful, unconstitutional executive orders by the Trump administration dont see the light of day. Officials who signed the joint statement included legal representatives from Washington, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Vermont and Virginia. On Monday, Ferguson announced he was suing Trump over the executive order that suspended refugee entries for 120 days and barred entry to the U.S. for 90 days for those traveling from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen. Becerra said that he had been in contact with Ferguson and that the option to pursue legal action is under consideration for California. Thats one of many avenues of how we are looking to approach this, Becerra said. As a result of the Florida meeting, Becerra said, the top lawyers from the 15 states are collaborating on how to address various Trump directives. Everyone is doing a little bit of something, he said. Everyones trying to figure out how best to address this. Florida Atty. Gen. Pam Bondi, a Republican, did not attend the meeting, Becerra said. Facebook

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California warily watches President Trump while pushing forward on climate change By Chris Megerian (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) Its been a decade since California set its first target for slashing greenhouse gas emissions, one of several policies that has made the state an international leader in the fight against global warming. So while President Trump suggests hes going to roll back the countrys environmental regulations, state leaders insist they wont be knocked off track here. This is when you do your best work, said John Laird, secretary of the California Natural Resources Agency. We cant worry about pulling back just to sink with everyone else who isnt moving at all. Read More Facebook

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Rep. Duncan Hunter urges Trump to make an executive order exemption for Iraqis who aided U.S. military By Sarah D. Wire Reps. Duncan Hunter (R-Alpine) and Adam Kinzinger (R-Ill.) are asking President Trump to approve waivers to his executive order for Iraqis who helped the American military. Hunter and Kinzinger, who both served in Iraq and Afghanistan, said in the letter to Trump that they supported a request from Defense Secretary James N. Mattis that visa reviews for some Iraqis be fast-tracked. For the safety of these courageous individuals and their families, and in the interest of our national security, its critical that we make this exception and do so swiftly, the congressmen said in a statement. The executive order Trump signed Friday bars all refugee entries for 120 days, blocks Syrian refugees indefinitely and bars for 90 days the entry of citizens from Iraq, Iran, Syria, Yemen, Sudan, Libya and Somalia. Some of the earliest stories of people caught up in the ban included military interpreters from Iraq who had visas. We respectfully ask that you take this action to ensure these individuals are not put in any further danger. Doing so would send a strong signal to those who show such immense courage to advance U.S. security interests at a risk to their own safety, as well as the many veterans and warfighters whove relied on the service of these individuals for their own protection and to accomplish their objectives, their letter states. Facebook

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Democrats in the California Legislature move to condemn President Trumps immigration orders Facebook

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Assembly Republican leader Chad Mayes voices his misgivings about refugee order By Patrick McGreevy Assembly Minority Leader Chad Mayes (R-Yucca Valley) speaks in the Capitol on Jan. 11. (Rich Pedroncelli / AP) Assembly Republican Leader Chad Mayes of Yucca Valley on Monday joined a number of GOP politicians who are voicing misgivings about President Trumps order temporarily barring refugees from some majority-Muslim countries from entering the country. Religious liberty is a core value of our nation. My ancestors immigrated to America to flee religious persecution, Mayes said in a statement. While bolstering our national security is important, when forced to decide between security and liberty, I will always side with liberty. He is concerned about them [the orders], said Matt Mahon, a spokesman for the assemblyman. Trumps directives suspended refugee entries for 120 days and barred entry to the U.S. for 90 days for those traveling from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen. Facebook

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Rep. Zoe Lofgren and other ranking Democrats demand emergency meeting on refugee ban By Sarah D. Wire After two days of protests across the country over President Trumps order Friday banning refugees from seven countries, Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-San Jose) and the ranking Democrats of three committees that oversee immigration issues are demanding a meeting with President Trumps new Homeland Security secretary, John F. Kelly. The move by Trump prevented green card and visa holders from reentering the country, and led to the detention of more than a hundred people landing at U.S. airports with valid entry documents. Late Saturday, a federal judge in New York issued a temporary stay against the deportation of anyone who had arrived with a valid visa. The letter demanding the meeting, signed by Lofgren, Judiciary Committee ranking member John Conyers (D-Mich.), Homeland Security Committee ranking member Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.) and Foreign Affairs Committee ranking member Elliot Engel (D-N.Y.), calls for it be scheduled by the close of business Wednesday. The Democrats also ask for more information about how the order is being implemented, whether the stays placed by federal judges over the weekend are being followed and whether green card holders are affected. Only two days after the order was signed it is clear that it has already led to panic and disorder, not to mention protests, the letter states. This is apparently due in part to the lack of internal administration review prior to its issuance as well as a lack of clarity and guidance provided thereafter. Lofgren, a former immigration attorney and the ranking Democrat on the Judiciary Committees Immigration Subcommittee, also plans to file legislation today to rescind the executive order. Getting such legislation through the House could be difficult with Speaker Paul Ryan supporting the executive order. Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) is proposing similar legislation in the Senate. House and Senate Democrats plan to hold a rally against the order outside the Supreme Court Monday evening. Facebook

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As California Democrats blast Trumps refugee order, Republicans in the congressional delegation hold their fire By Sarah D. Wire Only a few of the states 14 Republican representatives have publicly commented on an executive order signed by President Trump on Friday that barred refugees and green card holders from seven countries from entering the U.S. Rep. Devin Nunes (R-Tulare) released a statement Sunday night saying some tweaks are needed, but his background as chairman of the House Select Intelligence Committee leads him to support the executive order. In light of attempts by jihadist groups to infiltrate fighters into refugee flows to the West, along with Europes tragic experience coping with this problem, the Trump administrations executive order on refugees is a common-sense security measure to prevent terror attacks on the homeland. While accommodations should be made for green card holders and those whove assisted the U.S. armed forces, this is a useful temporary measure on seven nations of concern until we can verify who is entering the United States, he said. Rep. Ed Royce (R-Fullerton) told the Washington Post that pausing the intake of refugees from terror hotspots is the right call to keep America safe, but he hopes the cases of people traveling on visas who were prevented from reentering the country are resolved quickly. Rep. Jeff Denham (R-Turlock) said on Twitter on Sunday that the rollout has created confusion, and that executive orders arent the way to fix the countrys long-term problems. View Twitter post View Twitter post Several of Californias 38 Democratic congressional representatives and the states two senators were out in force over the weekend demanding the release of refugees and green card holders, and an end to the executive order. Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) announced two pieces of legislation shell file in response. One would immediately rescind the presidents order. The second would limit executive authority under the Immigration and Nationality Act to prevent a president from unilaterally banning groups of immigrants. Its clear that the president gave little consideration to the chaos and heartbreak that would result from this order, she said in a statement. Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) joined protesters outside the White House Sunday afternoon. We will fight against racism. We will fight against anti-Muslim rhetoric. We will fight against those who will marginalize who we are. pic.twitter.com/R54f3MDhvo  Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) January 29, 2017 In Los Angeles, Reps. Maxine Waters (D-Los Angeles) and Ted Lieu (D-Torrance) joined protesters at Los Angeles International Airport. On Saturday, Reps. Judy Chu (D-Monterey Park), Nanette Barragan (D-San Pedro) and Lou Correa (D-Santa Ana) joined the initial protests at the airport, and worked to get some of those being held released. Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Dublin) accompanied protesters at San Francisco International Airport Sunday. Congresswoman @MaxineWaters is here at LAX protest leading the crowd in the chant "no ban, no wall, you build it up we'll tear it down" pic.twitter.com/iNEmkVVkmW  Javier Panzar  (@jpanzar) January 29, 2017 2:31 p.m. Jan. 30: This post was updated to clarify Rep. Ed Royces statement about the executive order. It was originally published Jan. 29. Facebook

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State Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra condemns Trumps refugee order and explores challenge By Patrick McGreevy Assyrian Christians, who fled unrest in Syria and Iraq, attend Mass at St. Georges Assyrian Church in Jdeideh, Lebanon. Trumps directive provides an exception for religious minorities. ( (AFP/Getty Images)) California state Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra on Saturday condemned an executive order by President Donald Trump barring people from some Muslim-majority countries from entering the U.S. and said he is consulting with legal advisors over a way to challenge the directive. Trump has suspended all refugee entries for 120 days and barred entry to the U.S. for 90 days for those traveling from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen. Justice in America doesnt live or die on the stroke of one mans pen regardless of how high his office, Becerra said in a statement late Saturday, less than a week after taking office. The Trump Administrations anti-religion, anti-refugee executive order is in so many ways unjust and anti-American He said the order discriminates against people based on their faith and denies entry to those with fears of death and persecution. I have conferred with my team, and we are reaching out to others as well, to find every avenue possible to defend our family members and those who live permanently in our communities who may be barred from re-entry into America, Becerra said. The Trump executive order should not stand and must be confronted as a constitutional overreach, he added. Facebook

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California Politics Podcast: Reactions to President Trumps first week By John Myers Even before the weekend controversy and protests, Californias top elected officials spent much of the last week reacting to the first moves by President Donald Trump. On this weeks California Politics Podcast, we take a closer look at the sharp words offered by Gov. Jerry Brown in his State of the State speech when it comes to the new politics of Washington. We also focus much of this weeks discussion around three big topics that caught the attention of a number of California lawmakers: immigration moves by Trump; the rough week that was for the nations environmental protection enforcers; and rekindled but unproven allegations of widespread voter fraud. Im joined by Marisa Lagos of KQED News and Anthony York of the Grizzly Bear Project. Facebook

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Gov. Jerry Brown will undergo new round of treatment for prostate cancer, but wont miss any work By John Myers Gov. Jerry Brown, who first was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2012, will begin a new round of treatment for the disease, his office reported on Saturday. Brown, 78, will maintain his duties as governor during the treatment, according to his staff. No additional details were provided about how long the treatment will take, or what prompted its timing. Fortunately this is not extensive disease, can be readily treated with a short course of radiotherapy, and there are not expected to be any significant side effects, said Dr. Eric Small, a UC San Francisco oncologist, in an emailed statement provided to reporters. The prognosis for Gov. Brown is excellent. Brown initially learned he had prostate cancer in late 2012 and underwent similar treatment for several weeks. The governor has also been treated for basal cell carcinoma  a type of skin cancer  twice in the past nine years, with reconstructive surgery on the right side of his nose in 2011. With almost two years remaining on his final term in office, Brown is already the oldest governor in California history. He often made a point of pointing out his physical fitness in his return to the job in 2011, including a 2012 challenge to New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie of a 3-mile race, a push-up contest and a chin-up contest. Though hes been treated in San Francisco, the governor and First Lady Anne Gust Brown now live full-time in the historic governors mansion in Sacramento after moving out of Oakland last year. Facebook

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Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra takes a jab at the Trump administration when asked about the battles to come Facebook

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Proposed law would make penalties for using fake immigration papers the same as those for using fake drivers license By Jazmine Ulloa A proposed California law seeks to ensure that a person who uses false documents to conceal their citizenship status faces the same punishment as a person who uses a fake drivers license. The legislation by Assemblyman Raul Bocanegra (D-Pacoima) would amend the penal code to make both crimes wobblers,

meaning prosecutors would have the discretion to charge suspects in such cases with either felony offenses or lower-level misdemeanors. Under the proposal, the repercussions for defendants would be the same: If convicted of a misdemeanor, offenders would have to serve up to one year in county jail, while a felony conviction would mean up to 16 months in county jail, or two or three years in prison. A spokesman for Bocangera said the measure was introduced as a proactive response to President Trumps hard-line stance on immigration and would reverse part of Proposition 187, a controversial ballot measure to deny public services, such as education and healthcare, to immigrants in the country illegally. The proposition, approved by voters in 1994, requires any person who uses false immigration records to face felony charges. Bocangeras bill amending those provisions would need a two-thirds vote in the Assembly and the state Senate to pass. Today, if an underage college student uses a fake ID to purchase a six-pack of beer, he or she can be charged with a misdemeanor, Bocanegra said in a statement. However, if an immigrant is caught using that same fake ID, he or she is automatically charged with a felony and is subject to five years in prison. This is fundamentally unfair. Facebook

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Fearing catastrophe, Californias Gov. Jerry Brown wants the worlds leaders to stop goofing off By Chris Megerian Gov. Jerry Brown pointedly criticized world leaders for goofing off instead of addressing looming problems with climate change and nuclear weapons during a radio interview on Friday. Theyre really averting their gaze, he said. And that is dangerous, very dangerous. Brown has become increasingly outspoken about issues he describes as existential threats to humanity, and the election of Donald Trump has only made him more concerned. During the interview, he spoke in sweeping terms about the need to support scientific research in the face of political denial. Darkness cannot totally extinguish the light, Brown said while criticizing Republicans for refusing to accept the scientific consensus around climate change and the need for dramatic changes to confront global warming. @JerryBrownGov in our studio (in fact, in my chair!) as he chats w/ Ira Flatow on @scifri pic.twitter.com/kIyGBFQW9X  Beth Ruyak (@CapRadioRuyak) January 27, 2017 At another point, Brown mused that humans have accumulated vast power without a corresponding increase in wisdom. That creates a gap between the power to destroy and the wisdom to control those destructive forces. Brown reiterated his plan to push forward Californias policies on climate change even if Trump follows through on the federal governments plans. Were going to do everything we can to stay on track, he said. Facebook

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Some California lawmakers say its time to expand how the state defines violent crime By Jazmine Ulloa As California undergoes the largest overhaul of prison parole in a generation, some lawmakers and law enforcement officials say its time to revisit how the state legally defines a violent crime. Gov. Jerry Browns Proposition 57, which voters overwhelmingly approved in November, continues a statewide effort to increase rehabilitation services and decrease the prison population. Among its provisions, the initiative gives the state parole board greater latitude to consider the early release of prisoners who have served their primary sentences, and whose crimes are not designated as violent under the California penal code. But since the early days of the ballot measure campaign, debate has brewed over just who the law will benefit, with prosecutors saying that short and porous list excludes certain rape crimes and other dangerous offenses. This legislative session, the discussion moves to the Capitol. Read More Facebook

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Fearing deletion, Tom Steyer copies Environmental Protection Agency website on climate change By Chris Megerian (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) With President Trump in the White House, information about climate change has been disappearing from government websites. Some fear the same thing could happen with the Environmental Protection Agency. Now the advocacy organization run by environmentalist and political donor Tom Steyer is taking steps to preserve the information. We will not allow Trump and the oil corporations to push us towards an Orwellian world full of official lies and misinformation.  Tom Steyer (@TomSteyer) January 27, 2017 NextGen Climate copied the website and made it available at SaveOurEPA.com. As Americans, we will not allow Donald Trump to erase the truth or rewrite history, Steyer said in a statement. This information belongs to the people, and the public has a right to know the truth. Trump has taken other steps that have alarmed environmentalists. For example, he greenlighted two oil pipelines that had been stopped by former President Obama. Facebook

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For California, a return to center stage in the 2020 presidential contest By Mark Z. Barabak (Jose Luis Magana / Associated Press) Kamala Harris hadnt even arrived in Washington to take up her job as Californias spanking-new U.S. senator when the chatter began: Kamala for president! Never mind her disavowals  Seriously?  or the fact that the first balloting of the 2020 race is, at a minimum, 1,000-plus days away. The soul-sapping election of Donald Trump has Democrats desperately looking far, far down the road. Usually the candidates start sending signals, said Jim Demers, a longtime party strategist in New Hampshire, the state that traditionally holds the first presidential primary. This time Im hearing activists begging for the race to begin. With a wide-open contest (read: not a Clinton or Obama in sight), the list of would-be contenders, real and imagined, is lengthy, even by the prodigious standards of this early stage. Whats different in 2020 is that California  huge in population, mighty in economic power, desperate to matter in presidential politics  figures to be at the center of speculation in a way it hasnt for a generation. Read More Facebook

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Theres a major fight on the way over Trumps plans for sanctuary cities By Liam Dillon Immigrant workers marching in Los Angeles in 2014. (Glenn Koenig / Los Angeles Times) Cities in California are gearing up for a legal fight against President Trumps plans to take away federal dollars from so-called sanctuary cities. These cities typically are defined as those that dont cooperate with federal immigration officials for deportation purposes, and the new president wants to strip them of funding unless they start doing so. But the language in Trumps executive order on the issue is vague, and San Francisco officials believe their city is already exempt from the mandate. Read More Facebook

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Fighting Trumps border wall on environmental grounds probably wont win in court By Liam Dillon A pair of fences separates Mexico, left, and the U.S. south of San Diego. (Bill Wechter / AFP) California political leaders are seeking all sorts of strategies to fight President Trumps plans to build a wall along the border with Mexico. One strategy thats likely to fail is a lawsuit based on state and federal environmental laws, legal experts said. Congress already has given the federal government broad authority to waive environmental laws to build a border fence and the courts have upheld that power. Read More Facebook

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Calexit organizers can now start collecting signatures to get California secession on the ballot By Christine Mai-Duc Supporters of the campaign for California to secede from the United States can now begin collecting the hundreds of thousands of signatures they need to get a proposed Calexit initiative on the ballot. California Secretary of State Alex Padilla cleared the proposed initiative to begin collecting signatures on Thursday. If the measure gets on the ballot and gains approval by a majority of voters, it would repeal clauses in the California Constitution stating that the state is an inseparable part of the United States and that the U.S. Constitution is the supreme law of the land, according to the title and summary prepared by the state attorney generals office. The measure would place another question on the ballot in 2019, asking whether California should become a separate country. If at least half of registered voters participate in that vote, with at least 55% of those voting to approve, the results would be treated as Californias declaration of independence. The current measures fiscal effect is dependent on various factors, writes the states nonpartisan legislative analyst, and if it succeeds would result in major, but unknown budgetary impacts. The proposals backers, known as Yes California, have argued that the state is culturally out of step with the rest of the U.S. and that California pays more money to the federal government than it receives in spending. The election of President Trump has only strengthened their argument, they say. California loses [by] being a part of America culturally and financially, said Marcus Ruiz Evans, one of the groups founders. It could be a nation all its own, everybody knows that. The only question is if they want to break off. Its unclear how the group will collect the required 585,407 valid signatures from registered voters over the next 180 days to qualify for the ballot. A campaign committee, Yes California Independence Committee, has raised no funds so far, according to records from the secretary of state. But Evans says that his group has more than 7,000 volunteers (significantly down from a 13,000 estimate in December) ready to gather signatures and that voters can expect to see signature gatherers on the streets in the next couple of days. Yes California says that even if the proposed initiative does land on the ballot and voters approve it, such an unprecedented move to secede would need to receive approval of at least a majority of the states in the union, among other legal hurdles. Evans says hes not fazed. America already hates California, and America votes on emotions, he said. I think wed have the votes today if we held it. UPDATE 7:01 p.m.: This post has been updated to clarify that the proposed initiative would place a future vote on Californias secession on the ballot in 2019. Facebook

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Rep. Ted Lieu is trolling Donald Trump, and he hopes youre watching By Sarah D. Wire Rep. Ted Lieu is now placing an asterisk next to President Trumps name in news releases. Its the Torrance Democrats way of drawing attention to his concerns about the new administration, he said. Sometimes the best way to respond to crazy is with satire, Lieu said. Never before have I had this feeling where our leader is potentially unhinged and has a problem with the truth, and that is highly disturbing for the leader of the free world. So Ive decided Im just going to point that out as much as I can. The asterisk leads readers to the bottom of the email, where a postscript says:  ***In addition to losing the popular vote, Trump  as of January 20, 2017  is in violation of the Emoluments Clause set forth in Article I, Section 9 of the U.S. Constitution due to massive conflicts of interests and his refusal to put his global business holdings in blind trusts. Trump also benefitted from Vladimir Putin ordering a multifaceted and brazen Russian influence and cyber hacking campaign with the goals of undermining faith in the U.S. democratic process, denigrating Secretary Clintons electability, and helping Trumps election chances. Trump and his press secretary also routinely make stuff up. The sophomore congressman said he initially planned to give Trump the benefit of the doubt, hoping his rhetoric was a campaign tactic and that he would pivot to uniting the country following the election. Then Lieu listened to the presidents inaugural speech. I was hoping he would govern different than how he campaigned, he said. I came to the conclusion that it would be worse for America to normalize him. Lieu followed the addition to his news releases with a Cloud of Illegitimacy Clock that counts the time since Trumps swearing-in, which is how long Lieu says Trump has been in violation of the Constitution by not divesting from his businesses or putting them in a blind trust. The Constitution bans government officials from receiving gifts or payments from foreign governments. Next he posted a series of tweets mocking White House spokesman Sean Spicer for giving incorrect figures on how many people attended the inauguration, and top Trump aide Kellyanne Conway for using the term alternative facts. Was charged $2.99 for coffee listed at $2.59. That's why I have trust issues. Oh, and the fact that @seanspicer at #WhiteHouse makes shit up  Ted Lieu (@tedlieu) January 23, 2017 Ive decided that the administration using alternative facts is more profane than anything that I could say, he said. When the administration lies, they just need to be called out on that. If they are going to lie about stupid little things, like crowd size, imagine what theyre going to say when they roll out their healthcare plan, whenever that might be. Lieu has needled Trump in responses to several executive orders this week, including by saying he would bet a nice bottle of California wine that the Administration will be unable to find a credible witness to testify under oath to the allegation that 3-5 million people illegally cast votes in 2016, and by mentioning the inauguration crowd while talking about Trumps proposed border wall. Lieu said hes absolutely hoping Trump will respond. I think satire is an effective way to highlight issues, and I want the American people to see who this president really is, because in 22 months they get to vote again on every member of Congress, and that will be a referendum on Donald Trump, Lieu said. Facebook

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California Democrats propose adding third, nonbinary gender option for drivers licenses and other official documents By Melanie Mason View Twitter post California drivers licenses and birth certificates could have a third option for gender in addition to male or female under legislation unveiled Thursday by Democratic lawmakers. The bill by state Sens. Toni Atkins (D-San Diego) and Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) would establish a new nonbinary gender marker for official state documents. Lawmakers framed the measure as an expansion of rights for transgender, intersex and other people who do not identify as male or female. It will keep California at the forefront of LGBTQ civil rights, Atkins said at a Capitol news conference. The bill, SB 179, also would streamline the process for people to change their gender on such documents. It would remove the requirement that an individual obtain a sworn statement from a physician certifying medical treatment for gender transition. It also would create a process for people younger than 18 to apply for a change of gender on their birth certificate. Jo Michael, of Equality California, a gay rights advocacy group, said the bill had personal resonance. Michael identifies as transgender and nonbinary. For the first time, Californians like me could have accurate gender markers that truly reflect who we are, Michael said. Wiener said the proposal places California in stark relief to other states in the country, including North Carolina, where a high-profile law regulating transgender peoples use of public bathrooms roiled the state. As the LGBT community  but especially the trans community  is under assault in this country, California needs to go in the opposite direction and embrace the trans community and support the trans community and modernize these laws, he said. The legislation does not specify what the alternate gender marker would be, but other countries that have implemented such a policy, such as Australia and New Zealand, have used the letter X alongside M for male and F for female, according to Sasha Buchert of the Transgender Law Center. Atkins, who is a lesbian and a member of the California Legislative LGBT Caucus, said this proposal marks an evolution for her in better understanding the concerns of the transgender and intersex community. She authored a law in 2014 that ensures death certificates reflect a persons gender identity, an experience she said made her more aware of the bureaucratic hurdles that transgender people often face. This years bill, she said, is moving us forward into a new world, where acceptance is ... letting people be who they tell you they are. Facebook

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Former U.S. Atty. Gen. Eric Holder will visit Sacramento to meet with Democratic legislators next month By Melanie Mason (Carolyn Kaster / Associated Press) California lawmakers will have a chance to meet the Legislatures new outside counsel on Feb. 7, when former U.S. Atty. Gen. Eric H. Holder Jr. travels to the state to address Senate and Assembly Democrats. Holder, leading a team of attorneys from the firm Covington & Burling, has been hired by Senate President Pro Tem Kevin de Leon (D-Los Angeles) and Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon (D-Paramount) to serve as outside counsel as the state prepares a legal strategy to deal with the administration of President Trump. But Senate and Assembly staff officials said his invitation to meet with lawmakers was extended prior to the contract, which begins in February, and that Holder is making the trip on his own personal time. His travel and accommodations expenses will not be paid with state funds, and his appearances will not be part of his billable hours, they said. Holder will address Senate Democrats at their annual policy retreat, and will speak to the Assembly Democratic caucus. His visit comes soon after state Democratic leaders this week denounced Trumps executive orders on immigration and pledged to take his administration to court should other legislative means of resistance fail. Facebook

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A guide to the guessing game that is the 2018 California governors race By Phil Willon While the race to succeed Gov. Jerry Brown already has attracted a small cadre of well-known Democrats, the behind-the-scenes strategizing, cajoling and guessing games surrounding a handful of other potential contenders could create havoc in whats expected to be Californias biggest political showdown since 2010. Among those watching closely are the candidates already definitely in the running, including Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and state Treasurer John Chiang. Delaine Eastin, who spent eight years as Californias top education official, announced she was running in November and officially launched her campaign  and fundraising operation  on Thursday. Read More Facebook

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This is not a monarchy: California Senate leader Kevin de Leon bashes Trumps immigration orders By Jazmine Ulloa (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) California Senate leader Kevin de Leon took another shot at President Trump and his executive orders on immigration Wednesday night, calling his threat to withhold federal dollars from so-called sanctuary cities political blackmail and political vengeance. In an interview on the MSNBC show The Last Word with Lawrence ODonnell, De Leon said California was working with former U.S. Atty. Gen. Eric H. Holder Jr. to study all of its legal options to oppose the directives. Under the 10th Amendment, the state Senate leader said, the federal government cannot commandeer and force local municipalities and police agencies from carrying out their work. The appearance came hours after Trump signed orders to temporarily halt the U.S. refugee program, cut funding for cities that offer immigrants protections and order federal officials to construct a U.S.-Mexico border wall. California will not become a cog in the Trump deportation machine, De Leon said. This is not a monarchy, and I know he fancies himself as a king, but this is a republic. Read More Facebook

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President Trumps voter fraud allegation is a lie, says Californias top elections officer By John Myers Secretary of State Alex Padilla. (Damian Dovarganes/Associated Press) With President Donald Trump rehashing last years accusation of widespread voter fraud in California and elsewhere, the states top elections official is also restating his take: Its not true. When the president says millions of illegal ballots are cast, thats simply not the case, said Secretary of State Alex Padilla in an interview on CNN Wednesday. Its a lie. As was the case when Trump made the accusation in November, theres no evidence of such a broad attempt to sway the outcome in California. The president lost the Golden State to Democrat Hillary Clinton by almost 4.3 million votes. Trumps announcement on Wednesday of a major investigation into voter fraud reignited the issue, even though there was also Republican skepticism in the wake of the new round of accusations. Is it a question of millions of people? Thats a pretty steep hill to climb, said Assemblyman Matthew Harper (R-Huntington Beach), the vice chairman of the Assemblys elections committee. Youd have to have a very strong coordinated effort across California to pull that off. Harper said he believes the better discussion is whether new, independent audit capabilities need to be in place to examine election results. Others, though, were sharply critical of the presidents motives. Allegations of widespread voter fraud are not just alternative facts, they are a calculated and sinister attempt at voter suppression that takes a page from this nations bleak history of segregation, said Laphonza Butler, president of the state council of the Service Employees International Union. In the CNN interview, Padilla said he worried the president was sowing doubt in an effort to legitimize efforts such as a purging of voter rolls. I hope that its not a sign of things to come, he said. Facebook

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Intelligence committee led by Californians investigating Russian influence in 2016 election By Sarah D. Wire The House Select Intelligence Committee is examining allegations that the Russian government tried to influence the 2016 election, Republican Chairman Rep. Devin Nunes and ranking Democrat Rep. Adam Schiff said in a statement Wednesday. The two Californians said the committee is looking at Russian cyber activity and other active measures directed against the U.S. It also will examine links between Russia and people working for political campaigns as well as the federal response to Russia, including leaks of classified assessments from the intelligence community. The statement does not specifically mention President Trump, the assessment of the U.S. intelligence community that Russia attempted to intervene in the presidential election to ensure he would win or news that Trumps national security advisor was in frequent contact with the Russian ambassador as President Obama was considering sanctions against Russia. This issue is not about party, but about country. The Committee will continue to follow the facts wherever they may lead, the statement said. The Senate Intelligence Committee, on which Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) serves, also is investigating Russian interference in the election, and the U.S. response. Two Republican senators have joined a number of House and Senate Democrats, including House Select Intelligence Committee member Eric Swalwell (D-Dublin) in pushing for a nonpartisan independent commission to examine the issue. Nunes, who served on Trumps transition committee, has previously said he doesnt think an independent commission is necessary. The statement also asked the new, Trump-appointed heads of intelligence agencies to bring documents requested by the committee directly to committee members. It will not be adequate to review these documents, expected to be in the thousands of pages, at the agencies. They should be delivered to the House Intelligence Committee to provide members adequate time to examine their content, it states. Facebook

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No stamp, no problem: Lawmaker says postage-paid ballots should be available to all Californians By John Myers (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) California voters would no longer have to scrounge around in search of a stamp to mail in their ballot under new legislation introduced this week at the state Capitol. We want to make sure voters dont have any barriers, said Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez Fletcher (D-San Diego), the bills author. Ballot envelopes sent by elections officials would be marked as prepaid postage and the postage costs would be paid for by individual counties. A key question will be the cost for mailing in as many as 10 million ballots statewide. Not all ballots will weigh the same, given the numerous city and county measures that also are considered in regularly scheduled elections. The initial language of Assembly Bill 216 doesnt offer specifics on reimbursing counties, though Gonzalez Fletcher said she expects the proposals ultimate cost could be under $2 million, if the law also makes clear that voters can still place a stamp on their ballot. Regardless, postage fees are likely to be deemed a mandated cost that state government must cover. Gonzalez Fletcher said the advent of email and online bill-paying services have meant that fewer voters have stamps readily available, with busy working Californians scrambling just to find the time to exercise their right to vote. It starts to feel like a very small poll tax, she said. The proposal is another example of the steady evolution of elections conducted less by the ballot box than the mailbox in California, as more than half of all registered voters now permanently receive absentee ballots. A number of the states most populous counties are expected to soon embrace a sweeping new law shifting elections away from neighborhood polling places and toward a substantial number of votes being cast by mail. This is welcome legislation, said Kim Alexander, president of the nonpartisan California Voter Foundation. Requiring voters to pay for ballot postage sends a message that the government is putting up obstacles to make it more difficult to vote. In many cases, ballots placed in the mail without proper postage are already being delivered by the U.S. Postal Service. Some counties in California have offered prepaid postage in the past, but the vast majority have not. Facebook

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California improves grades from anti-smoking group with barrage of anti-tobacco laws By Patrick McGreevy California led other states in adopting a flurry of new laws restricting tobacco products last year, resulting in a big improvement in the states grades from the American Lung Assn. In a report released Wednesday, the health group boosted the states grade for the level of tobacco taxes from an F last year to a B, in recognition that California voters in November approved a $2-per-pack increase in the cigarette tax. The Legislature last year also adopted a half-dozen new laws, including an increase in the minimum age for smoking from 18 to 21 and an expansion of a smoking ban in public places, including restaurants and theaters, to also include use of electronic cigarettes. The states grade for smoke-free air policies rose from a B to an A, while California received a B for restricting tobacco to young people. The group gave the state an incomplete for funding of tobacco prevention programs because officials have not yet started collecting money from the tobacco tax increase in Proposition 56. In 2016, Californians fought back against Big Tobaccos grip on our state, said David Pogue, chairman of the American Lung Assn. in Californias governing board. Tobacco-related illnesses remain the single most preventable cause of disease and death in California, and were proud to reaffirm ourselves as a national leader in the effort to reduce smoking rates and exposure to secondhand smoke and to protect our children from a lifetime of addiction. The group cited the lack of significant new tobacco laws passed in Los Angeles for its decision to leave the citys C grade unchanged. El Monte and West Hollywood passed some new tobacco policies and raised their grades. Santa Ana earned a C, but was at top of the list in Orange County, where almost all the other cities received Fs, officials said. Facebook

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Sen. Kamala Harris pushes Trumps budget director pick on timely disaster relief By Sarah D. Wire Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) pushed President Trumps budget chief pick Tuesday on whether hed advise the new Republican leader to offer timely disaster relief, especially to states like California that face earthquakes, fires, floods and other natural disasters. Can you assure me that when natural disasters hit various parts of the country like California, that you will be willing to put the immediate interests of people in need as the first priority for you, or will you insist that the budget cuts be made before agreeing to provide critical assistance to those victims? Harris asked Rep. Mick Mulvaney during a confirmation hearing Tuesday. The South Carolina Republican asked for spending cuts to offset billions in relief funding after Hurricane Sandy hit the East Coast. There is a proper federal role in dealing with natural disaster relief, Mulvaney said in response to Harris questioning. Sandy is a tremendous example of something so large, its simply too large for one state or local government to deal with, it is an appropriate function of the federal government. Harris pushed a second time, So can you assure me that if a natural disaster hits other states, like California for example, that you will not hold up relief for the state, waiting to determine whether there are going to be budget cuts or cuts in order to provide that relief? Or are you going to sit back and crunch the numbers while people are waiting for help? Mulvaney replied, No, I see my role in that particular circumstance as advising the president. Mr. President, heres what weve done it in the past, heres how it worked out, heres how I think we should proceed in this circumstance and heres why. And then whatever the president says to do, I will enforce. Harris is still weighing how to vote on Mulvaneys confirmation, her staff said. Facebook

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Trump is a hot topic in Californias race for governor, but not in a good way By Phil Willon Donald Trump at the California Republican Party convention in Burlingame in April. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) One of the most talked about politicians in Californias 2018 governors campaign isnt even running. Rarely does a day go by when Republican President Donald Trump isnt used as a political pinata by one of the top Democrats in the race. Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom took some jabs Tuesday when he addressed the California Legislature before Gov. Jerry Browns annual State of the State speech. Newsom mocked the Trump administration for its reliance on alternative facts  a phrase used by a Trump senior advisor when defending inflated inauguration crowd figures  and took a subtle shot at the presidents comment about American carnage in the nations cities. The insecurity of this man is near incomprehensible. These lies damage our democracy & country's reputation-Shameful https://t.co/ib7i6DqfH8  Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) January 24, 2017 On Monday, state Treasurer John Chiang criticized Trump for doubting the scientific evidence of climate change. President Trump may believe global warming was created by and for the Chinese in order to make U.S. manufacturing noncompetitive, Chiang said. We Californians stand with the scientific community and the 195 nations that have declared climate change is an urgent and potentially irreversible threat to human societies and the planet. When Antonio Villaraigosa announced his bid for governor right after the general election, the former Los Angeles mayor was sure to include a dig at Trump. Im running because I think the answer to the divisiveness we see in the country right now is unity, and the answer to fear is hope, he said. Last May, Villaraigosa compared Trump to segregationist George Wallace. Californias former superintendent of public instruction, Delaine Eastin, last week ripped Trump for nominating Betsy DeVos for Education secretary. Eastin said DeVos, a charter school advocate and Republican fundraiser from Michigan, was a threat to public education in the country. In speeches, in fundraising emails, in tweets and Facebook posts, the Democrats have liberally excoriated Trump while largely avoiding lobbing any criticism at one another. Its a safe and easy tactic that appeals to a sizeable majority of voters in left-leaning California. In the November election, Trump was trounced by Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton in California  losing to her by more than 4.2 million votes. San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer, a Republican being urged to run by fellow party members, has also rebuked Trump in the past. In May, Faulconer said he rejected Trumps divisive rhetoric about women and immigrants. Faulconer was absent at Trumps inauguration and skipped a Trump campaign rally in San Diego last spring. For any Republican to have a legitimate shot in the governors race, or any statewide election, the more distance they put between themselves and Trump the better, said GOP political consultant Rob Stutzman. Its important that youre not on the record gushing about Trump, Stutzman said. 3:30 p.m.: This story was updated to correct the title of Delaine Eastin. She is a former state superintendent of public instruction. Facebook

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Californias House members vote along party lines on permanently banning federal funds for abortion By Sarah D. Wire Californias House delegation split along party lines Tuesday on a bill to permanently prohibit the use of certain federal funds for abortions. President Trump promised the anti-abortion community during the campaign that he would make the funding ban  commonly called the Hyde Amendment  permanent. It passed the House 238-183 and goes next to the Senate. The 52 members who represent California in the House split along party lines, with 36 Democrats against for it, and 14 Republicans voting for it. Reps. Ted Lieu (D-Torrance) and Jim Costa (D-Lieu) did not vote. Their staffs each said the member would have joined Democrats in voting against the measure. If passed by the Senate, it would permanently prohibit federal funding from being used to cover abortion costs except in cases of rape, incest or if the mothers life is in danger. It effects government employees health plans, Medicaid and health insurance plans offered under the Affordable Care Act. The amendment has been added to the annual appropriations bill for the past 40 years and the bill approved by the House Tuesday would make it permanent. During debate on the House floor Rep. Judy Chu (D-Monterey Park) called the bill a womens health catastrophe that will keep poor women on Medicaid or the Affordable Care Act from having access to insurance. In effect it makes abortion only an option for the wealthy, she said. Previous versions of the bill twice passed the House but were not considered by the Senate while President Obama was in office. 11:09 a.m. Jan. 25: An earlier version of this article reported that Democrats voted for the bill and Republicans voted against the bill. It was the opposite. Facebook

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California lawmakers to weigh whether younger children should be allowed to testify in custody cases By Jazmine Ulloa California lawmakers will weigh whether family courts should allow children as young as 10 to testify before judges regarding parent custody or visitation rights. A bill filed by state Sen. Connie Leyva (D-Chino) would lower the current threshold from age 14 to enable more children to express their wishes in court, some of whom she said could find themselves in life-threatening situations. The legislation was co-sponsored by the California Protective Parents Assn. and the Center for Judicial Excellence. Neither current law nor the bill would require children to testify in family cases unless they choose to. In a statement, Levya called the proposal an important child safety measure. As a family court makes critical life decisions for children, it makes sense for them to be granted a greater voice in court proceedings since they can contribute essential information before final decisions are made, she said. Facebook

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Support for California secession is up, one poll says By Phil Willon Students from several high schools rally at City Hall in downtown Los Angeles on Nov. 14 after walking out of class to protest the election of Donald Trump. (Reed Saxon / Associated Press) Californians support for a breakaway California republic has increased, one poll has found. One-third of state residents support peacefully seceding from the United States, up from 20% since Californians were last asked the same question in 2014, according to a new Reuters/Ipsos opinion poll. The polls margin of error for the California answers was plus or minus 5 percentage points. Still, half of Californians opposed the idea of succession, though Democrats were more inclined to support it than Republicans. The survey found that 60% of Republicans gave the idea of peacefully seceding a thumbs down compared with 48% of Democrats and 50% of independents. Nationally, 22% of those polled supported having their state break away from the U.S., according to the survey. A Calexit campaign already is underway to make California an independent nation. The effort faces extremely long odds. The poll surveyed 14,000 adults nationwide, and 500 in California, from Dec. 6 to Jan. 19. Facebook

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Gov. Jerry Brown defiantly tells lawmakers California is not turning back in face of Trump and GOP proposals By John Myers Gov. Jerry Brown used his State of the State speech on Tuesday to promise a forceful defense of Californias efforts on climate change, healthcare and assistance to those in the country illegally against new proposals by President Donald Trump and national Republican leadership. California is not turning back, Brown said to applause. Not now, not ever. The governors remarks, delivered in front of lawmakers and state elected officials in the Assembly chambers, came just four days after President Trumps forceful inaugural address that signaled a dramatic new course for the federal government. While he never mentioned the president by name during the 16-minute speech, Brown said there are disturbing signs as to whats on the horizon. We have seen the bald assertion of alternative facts, whatever those are, he said, a reference to top Trump advisor Kellyanne Conways weekend comments on NBCs Meet the Press. We have heard the blatant attacks on science. Familiar signposts of our democracy  truth, civility, working together  have been obscured or swept aside. The annual event in the chamber of the state Assembly was unusual from the outset. Just minutes before beginning his speech, Brown gave the oath of office to Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra, the former Los Angeles congressman confirmed to the post on Monday afternoon by the state Senate. Legislators have had a decidedly unusual start to their new two-year session. After a raucous opening day in December that laid bare wounds from the presidential race, lawmakers were presented two weeks ago with Browns projection of a $1.6-billion budget deficit looming on the states fiscal horizon. But the sea change in national politics has been a persistent buzz in the state Capitol, and Brown promised a strong defense of Californias unique view on major policy issues. The governor made a special mention of the issue of illegal immigration, offering perhaps his strongest words to date. Let me be clear, the governor said, his voice rising. We will defend everybody  every man, woman and child who has come here for a better life and has contributed to the well-being of our state. Even with those critiques, the governor veered from his prepared remarks to praise Trumps call for a new focus on infrastructure projects. I say, Amen to that, man!  he said. And Brown urged members of the Legislature to reject the bitter partisan divisions of this moment in the nations history. Democrats are in the majority, but Republicans represent real Californians, too, he said to bipartisan applause. We have generally been civil to one another and avoided the rancor of Washington. I urge you to go even further and look for new ways to work beyond party and act as Californians first. Facebook

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Xavier Becerra takes oath of office, is first Latino to become California attorney general By Patrick McGreevy Xavier Becerra ((Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press) ) Minutes after resigning his seat in Congress on Tuesday, Xavier Becerra took the oath of office as Californias new attorney general, and he immediately made plans for a sit-down with sheriffs from throughout the state to talk about law enforcement issues. Becerra, 58, was given the oath of office at the Capitol by Gov. Jerry Brown, who predicted earlier that Xavier will be a champion for all Californians. The ceremony was held before Brown was scheduled to deliver his annual State of the State address, and a day after Becerra received final confirmation by the state Senate. I will do my utmost to uphold your faith in me to serve as our great states next chief law enforcement officer and legal advocate, Becerra said in a letter to Brown on Tuesday, letting him know he had resigned from Congress. And while I leave Congress with mixed emotions, I am ready to begin my work as Attorney General. Californias hard-working families are counting on us, and we wont let them down, Becerra said. Becerra was accompanied at the ceremony by his wife, physician Carolina Reyes, two of his three daughters, and his parents, both immigrants from Mexico. Brown appointed Becerra to fill a vacancy after former Atty. Gen.l Kamala Harris won election to a seat in the U.S. Senate. Becerra has pledged to challenge any attempts by the new administration of President Trump to roll back state policies on immigration, civil rights and the environment. Brown noted his appointees background during his speech. Like so many others, he is the son of immigrants who saw California as a place where, through grit and determination, they could realize their dreams, Brown said. And they are not alone, millions of Californians have come here from Mexico and a hundred other countries, making our state what it is today: vibrant, even turbulent, and a beacon of hope to the rest of the world. The first Latino to become state attorney general in California spent the last two weeks meeting with dozens of legislators as he went through confirmation hearings in both houses. Governor Brown and state legislators have already shared valuable ideas on our path forward, Becerra said in a statement after his confirmation. And next week I hope to sit down with sheriffs from across our state to begin our work together keeping our families safe and enforcing our laws fairly. The first focus on local law enforcement was welcomed by Kern County Sheriff Donny Youngblood, president of the California State Sheriffs Assn. He wants to start with law enforcement in the San Joaquin Valley, and I think thats a really positive step, Youngblood said. Im impressed with his credentials. Im impressed with his background, and I think hes going to be a good attorney general. Facebook

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Watch: Gov. Jerry Brown delivers his State of the State address Gov. Jerry Brown will deliver his State of the State address at 10 a.m. PST. Watch live here: Facebook

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Xavier Becerras resignation from Congress took effect at 9:15 a.m.; he calls serving a distinct honor Xavier Becerra has submitted letter of resignation from Congress ahead of swearing in for California attorney general today  Patrick McGreevy (@mcgreevy99) January 24, 2017 Facebook

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Californias senators split on CIA director confirmation By Sarah D. Wire Californias senators split Monday night on the confirmation of Rep. Mike Pompeo (R-Kan.), President Trumps pick to lead the CIA. Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), who serves on the Senate Select Intelligence Committee and backed Pompeo, said in a statement that Pompeo gave straightforward answers to her questions, and that House colleagues called him smart, hardworking and devoted to protecting our country. Congressman Pompeo has committed to following the law regarding torture, promised to provide objective analysis of Irans compliance with the nuclear agreement and insisted that he would continue to keep the Senate Intelligence Committee fully informed of CIA activities, Feinstein said. Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) said in a statement that she appreciated that Pompeo was responsive, engaging, and has made a number of positive commitments during the confirmation process, but said she couldnt vote for him after looking at his entire record on issues such as torture, surveillance, and the collection and use of metadata. Pompeo was confirmed 66 to 32 Monday evening. Thirteen Democrats joined Feinstein in voting for him. While House members dont get to vote for confirmation, the leaders of the House Select Intelligence Committee, Chairman Rep. Devin Nunes (R-Tulare) and ranking Democrat Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Burbank) joined Feinstein in congratulating Pompeo for his confirmation. Facebook

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Sen. Kamala Harris moves into some familiar digs on Capitol Hill By Sarah D. Wire (Barbara Davidson / Los Angeles Times) Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) and her staff can begin moving today into her official Senate office, the same space she interned in as a college student. Few offices can hold a staff as large as the ones allocated to the California members and as expected, Harris was assigned an office in the Hart Senate Office Building, the same space occupied by former Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.). Harris can start moving in this morning, her staff said. Back home, Harris plans to have state offices in Fresno, Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Diego and San Francisco, her staff said. It is a bit of a change from Boxer, who had additional offices in Oakland and Riverside, but did not have an office in San Francisco. The space in Washington should feel familiar. It was occupied by Sen. Alan Cranston (D-Calif.) when Harris interned for him as a mailroom clerk for a summer when she was a Howard University student in the 1980s. Two floors up in the same building is Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.). Except for states where staff size is a consideration, Senate offices are assigned based on seniority and sitting senators have months to decide if they want to move offices. That means some new senators could spend months working out of temporary space. Facebook

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Assembly speaker taps former Obama spokesman for communications strategy By Melanie Mason Bill Burton (Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times) With Californias face-off against Washington, D.C., getting widespread attention, Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon has turned to a veteran of national politics to help shape his public image: White House veteran Bill Burton. Burton, who once worked as deputy press secretary in the Obama administration, was hired this month by Rendon, a Democrat from Paramount, for communications strategy. Now a managing partner in the Los Angeles office for SKDKnickerbocker, a prominent liberal public affairs firm, Burton said he relished being involved in California politics, which he said sets a model for liberals nationwide. With President Trump and congressional Republicans controlling the national agenda, Speaker Rendon and his incredible staff are at the center of some of the most important progressive fights in the country and we couldnt be more excited to be helping any way we can, he said. Burton said his services, paid for out of Rendons campaign account, are meant to offer a more intentional approach to how hes been dealing with media  a recognition, he said, of Rendons and Californias elevated role in national politics. Rendon is not the only legislative Democrat to be represented by SKDKnickerbocker. Assemblywoman Cristina Garcia of Bell Gardens also is a client. The firm also worked with Democratic Reps. Grace Napolitano and Linda Sanchez in their reelection bids, as well as freshman Rep. Nanette Barragan in her heated congressional race against fellow Democrat, former state Sen. Isadore Hall. Facebook

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State Senate votes for final confirmation of Xavier Becerra as state attorney general By Patrick McGreevy Gov. Jerry Brown, left, appointed Rep. Xavier Becerra (D-Los Angeles) as state attorney general. ( (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press)) The state Senate on Monday voted 26-9 in favor of final confirmation of Rep. Xavier Becerra as Californias attorney general, putting on watch a veteran politician who has promised to block efforts by President Trump to roll back state policies on immigration, civil rights and the environment. Becerra, a Los Angeles Democrat and 12-term congressman, is set to take the oath of office on Tuesday before Gov. Jerry Browns State of the State address. As Attorney General, Xavier will be a champion for all Californians, Brown said in a statement after the party-line vote. Brown appointed Becerra as the states first Latino attorney general to fill the vacancy left when former state Atty. Gen. Kamala Harris was elected to the U.S. Senate. Senate President Pro Tem Kevin de Leon said Becerra will be an effective counter force to Trump, who has threatened mass deportations and the repeal of some environmental laws. Many of us know him personally and can attest to his character, to his integrity and to his qualifications, De Leon said of Becerra. He will be a strong partner for our state to help us work with the federal government when we can and to resist when we must. State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) said Becerra understands the challenges ahead. He will indeed vigorously defend the values of our state by taking the fight to the federal government when necessary, said Jackson, who chairs the state Senate Judiciary Committee. Becerra, 58, said during two weeks of confirmation hearings that he would also fight any attempt to weaken environmental protections or adopt stop-and-frisk police policies that allow officers to search anyone on the street. All Republican senators voted against Becerra or withheld their vote. I think when you are the top cop you have to enforce the law to the fullest extent, said state Sen. Joel Anderson (R-San Diego) before he voted against Becerra. Opponents cited Becerras support for sanctuary cities that refuse to have their officers help enforce immigration laws. San Francisco prohibits local authorities from holding immigrants for immigration officials if they have no violent felonies on their records and do not currently face charges. Trump has threatened to withhold federal funds from sanctuary cities. Sen. John Moorlach (R-Costa Mesa) also opposed Becerra, saying he is worried that the antagonistic tone being set by Democratic lawmakers with Becerra could put at risk the $86 billion the state and its cities gets annually from the federal government. I dont want to jeopardize those funds, Moorlach said. Becerra said he was humbled by the vote and ready to get working.He plans to meet soon with county sheriffs to discuss local law enforcement issues. As I embark on this new journey, my compass will be the experiences of hard-working families like the one I grew up in, Becerra said. As the son of immigrants, I know how important it is to protect the rights and dreams of every aspiring American. I will make sure no headwinds from outside our state can knock us down. Facebook

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Attorney general nominee Becerra questioned on guns, death penalty and pot during confirmation hearings By Patrick McGreevy Rep. Xavier Becerra (D-Los Angeles), shown at a gun violence event in June, was selected by Gov. Jerry Brown to be Californias next attorney general. ((Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) ) In two weeks of confirmation hearings, state attorney general nominee Xavier Becerra has been asked for his position on many issues, including new gun control laws, the states death penalty policy and the recent voter approval of an initiative that legalized recreational marijuana use. The 12-term congressman is up for a possible final confirmation vote Monday in the state Senate. Read More Facebook

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California attorney general nominee Xavier Becerra is warned against suing Trump early and often By Patrick McGreevy Rep. Xavier Becerra (Rich Pedroncelli / AP) With Xavier Becerra facing a final confirmation vote Monday for state attorney general, two former high-level officials in the office are warning against drowning President Trump in lawsuits. The pressure to sue Trump early and often is a trap, according to Michael Troncos, former chief counsel in the California attorney generals office, and Debbie Mesloh, a former senior advisor to the California attorney general, writing in an op-ed piece published by the Los Angeles Times. In this right-wing political moment, a major legal case on our climate change laws or our policies benefiting (young immigrant) Dreamers may well lead to a Trump White House victory, establishing precedents that far outlast this presidency, the two write. In fact, the cases Becerra chooses not to bring may be among his most important achievements. Courts cant rule on whats not before them. Troncos and Mesloh said California will be up against a U.S. Supreme Court remade in Trumps image, and that [a]sking a federal court to overturn federal immigration policies could be a fools errand. Read More Facebook

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California cities would have to make it easier to build houses under new legislation By Liam Dillon California cities that are falling behind on housing production goals set by the state would be forced to remove some of their development restrictions under legislation from a Bay Area state senator. State Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) released new details in his bill, SB 35, Monday morning that would require cities to approve new housing in areas already zoned for high-density development provided developers set aside some units for low-income residents. The bills provisions would only apply in cities where growth isnt keeping pace with housing production targets developed by the state every eight years that are designed to ensure California has enough homes for its growing population to live affordably. Right now, thats not happening. The states median home price of $485,800 is more than 2 1/2 times the national average, with the states poorest residents the hardest hit. And in the most recent eight-year housing cycle ending in 2014, production was less than half of the state target. Wiener, a former San Francisco supervisor, said Californias affordability crisis requires the state to involve its
Neil Gorsuch could fall somewhere between his hero, Justice Scalia, and former boss, centrist Justice Kennedy By David Savage Judge Neil M. Gorsuch was resting midway down a Colorado ski slope last year when his cellphone rang with the news that Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia had died. I immediately lost what breath I had left, Gorsuch recalled in an April speech, and I am not embarrassed to admit that I couldnt see the rest of the way down the mountain for the tears. Now, as President Trumps pick to replace Scalia on the high court, Gorsuch is seen by many on the right as a fitting replacement for the iconic jurist that Gorsuch considered a lion of the law. Like Scalia, Gorsuch, 49, who serves on the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals in Denver, is a well-respected conservative who believes judges should decide cases based on the law as it was understood when passed, not on how they think it should be. Hes a clear, impassioned writer, albeit without Scalias flare for biting sarcasm. But Gorsuch also evokes the qualities of Justice Anthony M. Kennedy, for whom Gorsuch worked as a law clerk. (If confirmed, Gorsuch would join three justices who previously clerked on the high court, but he would be the first ever to serve alongside the justice he or she worked for.) Like Kennedy, 80, Gorsuch is a Westerner with a polite, congenial manner who at times has won praise from liberals. He may be more conservative than Kennedy when it comes to expanding individual rights, but he seems to lack Scalias fervor for overturning liberal precedents from decades past. Which way Gorsuch skews could be pivotal for the future of the court. Conservatives clearly hope hell be more like Scalia than Kennedy, a centrist swing vote who has often joined liberals on issues such as gay marriage and abortion. Some conservatives have even expressed hope that Gorsuchs personal history with Kennedy might enable him to draw the Reagan-appointee back toward the right. Read More Facebook

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Trump chooses Neil Gorsuch, a conservative seen as likely to be confirmed, for Supreme Court By Michael A. Memoli President Trump nominated federal Judge Neil M. Gorsuch on Tuesday to the Supreme Court to fill the seat of the late Antonin Scalia, choosing from his short list an appeals court judge from Denver seen as most likely to win Senate confirmation. Because Scalia was a stalwart conservative, Trumps choice is not likely to change the balance of the court. But it does set the stage for a bruising partisan fight over a man who could help determine law on gun rights, immigration, police use of force and transgender rights. Read More Facebook

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Trump administration is radicalizing Democratic voters, creating a challenge for the party, Rep. Adam Schiff says By Sarah D. Wire (Mark Wilson / Getty Images) As protests spread over policy announcements from the Trump administration, Democrats must work to encourage participation in politics, but face a danger of the party becoming too radicalized, Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Burbank) said Tuesday. The radical nature of this government is radicalizing Democrats, and thats going to pose a real challenge to the Democratic Party, which is to draw on the energy and the activism and the passion that is out there, but not let it turn us into what we despised about the tea party, Schiff said. During a meeting with reporters and editors in the Los Angeles Times Washington bureau, Schiff also discussed his role as the highest-ranking Democrat on the House Select Intelligence Committee under a Trump administration and how Democrats will manage in the minority. Ever since the election, party leaders have been debating: Did we lose because we were too far to the left and we had too small a tent, or did we lose because we are too mainstream and didnt energize the base? Schiff asked. We are obviously having that debate, but theres a whole new element, which is the reaction to the Trump administration that makes this different in kind, certainly different in intensity, than I think weve ever seen after an election, he said. The more radical the administration is, the more radicalized our base becomes, which just feeds the Breitbart crowd, and who knows where that ends. Democratic leaders have to channel public reaction to Trumps actions into progress, rather than deadlock, Schiff said. Reaction to Democrats seen as working with the Trump administration has been strong. Monday night, for example, protesters marched on Sen. Dianne Feinsteins home and office voicing fears she would back Alabama Sen. Jeff Sessions for attorney general. The senator from California announced Tuesday that she would oppose Sessions. Several groups calling themselves indivisible have popped up in cities across the country as focal points for efforts to organize. We have two of the most capable strategists as the head of our House and Senate Democrats, Schiff added, referring to House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi of San Francisco and Senate Democratic leader Sen. Charles E. Schumer of New York. If anybody can grapple with this, they can, but its going to be a challenging and moving target day to day. I just hope that we can channel that energy in a way where we can provide a check on this administration because Ive never been more worried about the countrys future than I am right now, he said. Schiff said part of his role as the ranking Democrat on the House Select Intelligence Committee will be pushing back when the Trump administration puts out inaccurate information about the intelligence community and its findings. Trump has repeatedly dismissed or sought to minimize the intelligence communitys findings that Russia sought to intervene in the 2016 election to benefit him. Schiff said hes concerned about what else the administration might be willing to dismiss. I think that will be kind of a new frontier, he said. How do we contradict a president making representations about what the intelligence community has to say when the information is classified? Facebook

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Trump administration signals that some temporary bans on entry into the U.S. could become permanent By Brian Bennett  Trumps orders put a greater emphasis on deporting those convicted of crimes and those in the country illegally who were charged with crimes not yet adjudicated The Trump administration doubled down Tuesday on its commitment to transforming the nations border law enforcement, signaling that some of the temporary bans on travelers from seven predominantly Muslim countries are likely to be made permanent and elevating a deportations official to run the top immigration enforcement agency. Administration officials, led by newly sworn-in Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly, moved to allay the havoc that marked the roll-out of the ban and another on refugees. They briefed reporters and planned to head to Capitol Hill later today in an apparent effort to smooth relations after reports that lawmakers and other stakeholders were left out of the crafting of the executive order on toughened vetting at border entry points. In a news conference, Kelly and other top Homeland Security officials conceded some problems, including poor communication. But they insisted that all court orders were followed over the weekend, rebutted reports that some legal residents were denied access to attorneys at airports and said they everyone detained by border agents was treated with dignity and respect. The vast majority of the 1.7 billion Muslims that live on this planet, the vast majority of them have, all other things being equal, have access to the United States, Kelly told reporters. And a relatively small number right now are being held up for a period of time until we can take a look at what their procedures are, he said, seeming to acknowledge that mostly Muslims have been affected by the ban. The moves signaled that the White House remained committed to remaking border law enforcement even in the face of widespread confusion and condemnation of President Trumps order. Kelly said for the first time that the some of the restrictions that caused confusion and sparked protests over the weekend could be extended well into the future. Some of those countries that are currently on the list may not be taken off the list anytime soon, he said. Trump also named a longtime deportation officer, Thomas D. Homan, as acting director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homan, who will oversee the execution of Trumps immigration enforcement order, was most recently in charge of the agencys 5,000 deportation officers, a force Trump said he would triple to 15,000. Trumps orders put a greater emphasis on deporting not only those convicted of crimes, but also people in the country illegally who were charged with crimes not yet adjudicated, those who receive an improper welfare benefit and even those who have not been charged but are believed to have committed acts that constitute a chargeable criminal offense. Facebook

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White House tries to ban the word ban, hours after president uses it himself By Noah Bierman This is not a ban, spokesman Sean Spicer told reporters in a fiery news briefing. (Alex Wong / Getty Images) President Trump used the word ban in a tweet as recently as Monday to describe his new executive order suspending travel from seven Muslim-majority countries and halting the refugee program for several months. But facing backlash from many directions, the White House adamantly insisted Tuesday that the word is verboten. This is not a ban, White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer told reporters in a fiery news briefing. When we use words like travel ban, he said later, that misrepresents what it is. Its seven countries previously identified by the Obama administration, where, frankly, we dont get the information that we need for people coming into this country. In fact, people from the seven banned countries  Iraq, Iran, Syria, Yemen, Sudan, Somalia, Libya  cannot enter the United States under the order. Spicer appeared to be making a renewed effort to distinguish the order from the all-out ban on Muslims entering the country that Trump proposed during the campaign. Many around the world see the newest policy as an outgrowth of that proposal. Trump himself conceded a religious connection when he said in an interview on Friday that he wanted to make it easier for Syrian Christians to enter the country. And former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani told Fox News that the order sprang from a group he formed at Trumps request to create a legal framework that would accomplish the campaign goal of a Muslim ban. But amid confusion and worldwide criticism in recent days, the Trump administration has tried to temper some of the more incendiary rhetoric around the proposal. Even the words extreme vetting, a favorite Trump slogan, were called into question by Spicer on Tuesday. Calling for tougher vetting [of] individual travelers from seven nations is not extreme, he said. It is reasonable and necessary to protect our country. But changing the ban branding around the program at this point will be difficult. Heres Trumps tweet from Monday: If the ban were announced with a one week notice, the "bad" would rush into our country during that week. A lot of bad "dudes" out there!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 30, 2017 And Spicer himself used the term ban as recently as Sunday: Sean Spiceer today: This is not a Muslim ban. It is not a travel ban.



Sean Spicer in White House press release, Jan. 29: pic.twitter.com/axTM1m66nM  Dominic Holden (@dominicholden) January 31, 2017 Facebook

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Senate confirms Elaine Chao as secretary of Transportation By Associated Press Elaine Chao testifies on Capitol Hill in Washington at her confirmation hearing before the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee on Jan. 11, 2017. (Zach Gibson / AP) The Senate has confirmed Elaine Chao to serve as Transportation secretary in the Trump administration. The vote was 93 to 6 on Tuesday. Chao is an experienced Washington hand. She was Labor secretary under President George W. Bush and is the wife of Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. Chao would be a lead actor in pursuing Trumps promise to invest $1 trillion to improve highways, rail service and other infrastructure projects. Facebook

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Speaker Paul Ryan defends Trumps immigrant and refugee ban, as Congress grumbles about being left out By Lisa Mascaro "What is happening is something we support... we need to make sure that the vetting standards are up to snuff," Paul Ryan says of travel ban pic.twitter.com/iX6YkOLkLl  CBS News (@CBSNews) January 31, 2017 House Speaker Paul D. Ryan on Tuesday stood by President Trumps temporary ban on refugees and citizens from seven Muslim-majority nations and indicated that he was confident the administration could fix the confusing rollout without action from Congress. What is happening is something we support, said Ryan, whose office was the target of a sit-in by protesters opposed to Trumps order. We need to pause and we need to make sure that the vetting standards are up to snuff so we can guarantee the safety and security of our country. Congress was blindsided by Trumps executive action -- Ryan learned about it as the public did when the White House announced it Friday afternoon. Many GOP lawmakers have raised concerns. During a private meeting in the Capitol basement Tuesday, Republican lawmakers were counseled on how to handle protesters and office sit-ins happening across the country. Its regrettable that there was some confusion on the rollout of this, Ryan said. No one wanted to see people with green cards or special immigrant visas, like translators, get caught up in all of this. Ryan also said he was concerned the ban could be used as propaganda by terrorist groups. The rhetoric surrounding this could be used as a recruiting tool, and I think thats dangerous, he said. Still, Republicans leaders as well as rank-and-file GOP lawmakers largely agreed with the presidents move to halt refugee admissions for 120 days, and to temporarily ban citizens from seven predominantly Muslim countries, unless they are Christians or other religious minorities. The president was well within his right to issue an executive order, said Rep. Pete Sessions (R-Texas), chairman of the House Rules Committee. Do I feel let out? I feel like everybody was left out, he said. I wish they communicated it. I wish they had gotten more information to people. I wish they had measured three times and sawed once. Lawmakers have shown little appetite for Congress to get involved, and suggested the chaos that erupted at airports over the weekend was just part of a learning curve at the White House. I support the thrust of the executive order, said Rep. Pete King (R-N.Y.), who nevertheless said the administration should have been better prepared and will need to get your act together. Last year, Ryan had strongly condemned Trumps campaign-trail call for a Muslim ban. In recent days, Ryan, like other congressional leaders, was forced to dial up the administration with his questions and concerns about the order, conferring Monday with Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly. I am very pleased and confident that he is, on a going-forward basis, going to make sure that things are done correctly, Ryan said. Pressed on whether Congress would have a role, Ryan did not indicate any immediate legislative action. Facebook

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Democrats boycott Senate committee votes on Price, Mnuchin By Jim Puzzanghera Senate Democrats speak with reporters after boycotting Finance Committee confirmation votes. (JIM WATSON / AFP/Getty Images) Senate Democrats on Tuesday boycotted a committee vote on two of President Trumps top Cabinet nominees -- Tom Price to lead Health and Human Services and Steve Mnuchin to be Treasury secretary. Finance Committee Chairman Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) blasted the Democratic move as he sat in a hearing room with only Republicans on the dais. They ought to be embarrassed. Its the most pathetic treatment Ive seen in my 40 years in the United States Senate, Hatch said. I think they should stop posturing and acting like idiots, he said. At least one Democrat needs to be present for the committee to vote on the nominations, Hatch said. He recessed the hearing until further notice, saying he hoped a vote could take place later Tuesday. But asked mid-afternoon if he thought the committee would be able to meet Tuesday, Hatch said it doesnt look like it. Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), the committees top Democrat, said Price and Mnuchin have misled the public and held back important information about their backgrounds. Until questions are answered, Democrats believe the committee should not move forward with either nomination, Wyden said. This is about getting answers to questions, plain and simple, he said. Ethics laws are not optional, and nominees do not have a right to treat disclosure like a shell game. Today @SenateFinance Democrats refused to move forward with nominations of Mnuchin & Price.  Ron Wyden (@RonWyden) January 31, 2017 The litany of ethics revelations regarding @RepTomPrice are strong evidence that he cannot be allowed to have control of #Medicare.  Ron Wyden (@RonWyden) January 31, 2017 Mr. Mnuchin continued to fail to come clean on shady foreclosure practices that hurt Americans.  Ron Wyden (@RonWyden) January 31, 2017 Liberal groups cheered the boycott while Senate Republican leaders decried it as Democratic obstructionism. They are manufacturing issues on a daily basis to drag this process out, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Kent.) said of the confirmations of Trumps nominees. I dont see how they can explain to the American people how it is appropriate to prevent the administration from getting up and getting started, he said. Democrats have said Mnuchin, a wealthy Wall Street executive, misled the committee in his response to a written question about foreclosures at Pasadenas OneWest Bank while he ran it from 2009-15. Democrats pointed to a report Sunday by the Columbus Dispatch that Mnuchin denied that OneWest engaged in so-called robo-signing of mortgage documents. The paper said its analysis of nearly four dozen foreclosure cases in Ohios Franklin County in 2010 showed that the bank frequently used robo-signers. The Columbus Dispatch cited a foreclosure involving a mortgage signed by Erica Johnson-Seck, a OneWest vice president who said in a deposition in a 2009 Florida case that she signed an average of 750 documents a week. Barney Keller, a spokesman for Mnuchin, said Monday that several courts had dismissed cases involving allegations of robo-signing by Johnson-Seck. The media is picking on a hardworking bank employee whose reputation has been maligned but whose work has been upheld by numerous courts all around the country in the face of scurrilous and false allegations, Keller said. Democrats also have problems with Price, a six-term congressman and former orthopedic surgeon who has distinguished himself in conservative circles for his staunch opposition to the Affordable Care Act and his plans to slash federal healthcare spending. His nomination has become among Trumps most controversial, in part because of his hostility to government safety net programs, including Medicaid and Medicare. Democrats have also been increasingly critical of Prices extensive trading in healthcare stocks while he has been in Congress, and in some cases while he has pushed legislation that would benefit his portfolio. Price has denied any wrongdoing. Also drawing criticism is Prices purchase of discounted shares in an Australian biotech firm, Innate Immunotherapeutics, which he was offered through a private deal not available to general shareholders. Price also denied that this was improper, and Senate Republicans have rallied to his side, saying he did not violate any ethics rules. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) said he and the other Democrats on the committee want Mnuchin and Price to explain their lies either in person before the committee or in new written answers. I want them to disclose this information that they seem not to want to disclose, Brown said. 12:10 p.m.: This post was updated with additional comments from Hatch as well as from Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Sen. Sherrod Brown. 8:00 a.m.: This post has been updated with additional information and background. 8:07 a.m.: This post has been updated with additional information. Facebook

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White House aides who wrote Trumps travel ban see it as just the start By Brian Bennett (Pablo Martinez Monsivais / Associated Press) Even as confusion, internal dissent and widespread condemnation greeted President Trumps travel ban and crackdown on refugees this weekend, senior White House aides say they are only getting started. Trump and his aides justified Fridays executive order, which blocked travel from seven majority-Muslim countries for 90 days and halted refugees from around the world for 120, on security grounds  an issue that they say they take seriously. But their ultimate goal is far broader. Trumps top advisors on immigration, including chief strategist Steve Bannon and senior advisor Stephen Miller, see themselves as launching a radical experiment to fundamentally transform how the U.S. decides who is allowed into the country and to block a generation of people who, in their view, wont assimilate into American society. That project may live or die in the next three months, as the Trump administration reviews whether and how to expand the visa ban and alter vetting procedures. White House aides are considering new, onerous security checks that could effectively limit travel into the U.S. by people from majority-Muslim countries to a trickle. Read More Facebook

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Why corporations cant risk keeping silent about Trumps immigration ban By David Pierson Starbucks Chief Executive Howard Schultz said the Seattle coffee company is developing plans to hire 10,000 refugees over the next five years. (Richard Drew / Associated Press) Corporate America generally prefers to stay quiet about partisan politics. Pick one side of a hot-button issue, the thinking goes, and youll risk losing customers on the other side. But like so many norms before it, President Trump has turned this one on its head. A growing number of companies are deciding its a bigger risk to their investors and bottom line to stay quiet than it is to protest Trumps ban on refugees and travel from seven Muslim-majority nations, betting vocal opposition to the executive order scores them a moral and fiscal victory. While it was possible for companies to take a wait-and-see approach leading up to Trumps inauguration, many firms can no longer ignore the White Houses policy given the effect the order is already having on employees either stranded or fearful of traveling. Only a week ago it seemed foolish to speak out against a president who has admonished individual companies on social media such as Carrier, Boeing and General Motors. Now the pendulum has swung the other way. Companies, mostly in technology but increasingly in other sectors, have decided that its not enough just to speak out against the immigration order. They believe that they must also take headline-grabbing action. Read More Facebook

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Op-Ed: Trump is taking the Bannon Way, and it will end in disaster By Jonah Goldberg Bannon has said hes a Leninist' but hes really more of a Trotskyist because he fancies himself the leader of an international populist-nationalist right wing movement, exporting anti-'globalist' revolution. In that role, his status as an enabler of Trumps instinct to shoot  or tweet  from the hip seems especially ominous. The Bannon way might work on the campaign trail, but it doesnt translate into good governance. Its possible  and one must hope  that Trump can learn this fact on the job. But what if he doesnt? He could put the country in serious peril.  Jonah Goldberg Read More Facebook

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Trump will leave LGBTQ protections in place By Associated Press (Evan Vucci / Associated Press) The White House says President Trump will leave intact a 2014 executive order that protects federal workers from anti-LGBTQ discrimination. In a statement released early Tuesday, the White House said Trump is determined to protect the rights of all Americans, including the LGBTQ community and that he continues to be respectful and supportive of LGBTQ rights, just as he was throughout the election. The Trump administration has vowed to roll back much of President Obamas work from the last eight years and had been scrutinizing the 2014 order. The directive protects people from LGBTQ discrimination while working for federal contractors. The recent statement says the protections will remain intact at the direction of Trump. Here is the text of Obamas executive order, signed on July 21, 2014: By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including 40 U.S.C. 121, and in order to provide for a uniform policy for the Federal Government to prohibit discrimination and take further steps to promote economy and efficiency in Federal Government procurement by prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, it is hereby ordered as follows: Section 1. Amending Executive Order 11478 . The first sentence of section 1 of Executive Order 11478 of August 8, 1969, as amended, is revised by substituting sexual orientation, gender identity for sexual orientation. Sec. 2. Amending Executive Order 11246 . Executive Order 11246 of September 24, 1965, as amended, is hereby further amended as follows: (a) The first sentence of numbered paragraph (1) of section 202 is revised by substituting sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin for sex, or national origin. (b) The second sentence of numbered paragraph (1) of section 202 is revised by substituting sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin for sex or national origin. (c) Numbered paragraph (2) of section 202 is revised by substituting sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin for sex or national origin. (d) Paragraph (d) of section 203 is revised by substituting sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin for sex or national origin. Sec. 3. Regulations . Within 90 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Labor shall prepare regulations to implement the requirements of section 2 of this order. Sec. 4. General Provisions . (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect: (i) the authority granted by law to an agency or the head thereof; or (ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals. (b) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person. Sec. 5. Effective Date . This order shall become effective immediately, and section 2 of this order shall apply to contracts entered into on or after the effective date of the rules promulgated by the Department of Labor under section 3 of this order. Update 6:45 a.m.: This article was updated with the text of the 2014 executive order. Facebook

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Trump fires Justice Departments top official after she refuses to defend his refugee ban By David Lauter Sally Yates. (J. David Ake / Associated Press) President Trump fired acting Atty. Gen. Sally Yates on Monday, just hours after she announced that the department would not defend his controversial executive order banning refugees and travelers from certain countries. Yates has betrayed the Department of Justice by refusing to enforce a legal order designed to protect the citizens of the United States, the White House said in a statement. It is time to get serious about protecting our country. The move came after Yates sent a letter to Justice Department lawyers saying that she questioned the lawfulness of Trumps executive order. My responsibility is to ensure that the position of the Department of Justice is not only legally defensible, but is informed by our best view of what the law is after consideration of all the facts, Yates wrote. At present, I am not convinced that the defense of the executive order is consistent with these responsibilities, nor am I convinced that the executive order is lawful, she wrote. Consequently, for as long as I am the acting attorney general, the Department of Justice will not present arguments in defense of the executive order unless and until I become convinced that it is appropriate to do so. Yates was a holdover from the Obama administration. But because Trumps nominee for attorney general, Sen. Jeff Sessions, has not been confirmed and no other senior Justice Department officials have been appointed, firing her was expected to cause significant problems within the department. Among other issues, Yates is the only person in the department currently authorized to sign warrants for wiretapping in foreign espionage cases involving the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court. Trump replaced Yates with Dana J. Boente, a three-decade veteran of the Justice Department who was appointed in 2015 by former President Obama as U.S. attorney for the eastern district of Virginia. 6:37 p.m.: The story was updated with Trumps decision to fire Yates. Read More Facebook

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U.S. service member killed in Yemen identified as Navy SEAL from Illinois By Jeanette Steele The Pentagon on Sunday confirmed the death of a U.S. servicemember in a raid in Yemen targeting al-Qaeda, marking the first American combat death under the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump. A Navy SEAL from the Virginia-based elite unit known as SEAL Team 6 was killed Sunday during an unusual nighttime raid that put U.S. troops on the ground against Al Qaeda leaders in the middle of war-torn Yemen. The fallen sailor was identified Monday as Chief Special Warfare Operator William Ryan Owens, 36, of Peoria, Ill.. Three other Americans were wounded in the raid and an MV-22 Osprey had to be destroyed after the aircraft suffered a hard landing and couldnt fly. Another U.S. service member was injured in that crash. The raid marked the first known counter-terrorism operation and first confirmed combat fatality under President Trump. Steele writes for the San Diego Union-Tribune. Facebook

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Protests against Trumps ban on certain immigrants continue across the country By Ann M. Simmons Protesters rally at Los Angeles International Airport on Jan. 29, demonstrating against the immigration ban imposed by President Trump. (Justin Sullivan / Getty Images) After a weekend of turmoil at many of the nations airports following President Trumps executive order to suspend the U.S. refugee program and temporarily prohibit entry to citizens of seven predominantly Muslim nations, federal officials said all people being detained on arrival to the U.S. had been released. But that hasnt put a stop to demands to lift the travel ban. Protests continued to be held and organized throughout the country  incluidng in New York, New Orleans, Colorado and Connecticut. According to Ground Game, an online platform for organizing, at least a dozen demonstrations were planned for this week in what the group described as a fight against Islamophobia and Fascism. Calls to rally, demonstrate and protest swept social media platforms, including Twitter and Facebook. In Louisville, Ky., a rally was planned for Monday evening at the Muhammad Ali Center, in what organizers said would be a gathering for American values and to voice support for our nation and our city, which was founded and is strengthened by immigrants. In Hattiesburg, Miss., there was call to join a peaceful vigil in solidarity with refugees, immigrants, and Muslims on the University of Southern Mississippi campus on Monday evening. Declaring that Jersey City stands with our Muslim and immigrant community, organizers in that New Jersey city called on people to come to a pedestrian mall on Monday to stand in solidarity and peace as we show our strength in diversity as one of the most diverse cities in the nation. Other demonstrations were planned for later in the week in cities nationwide, including Tuesday in Tuscon, where organizers encouraged people to stand in solidarity with Senator (John) McCains strong public statement opposing the executive order banning refugees and Legal Permanent Residents from Muslim countries! Similar actions were planned on Tuesday at the South Carolina State House in Columbia and at the Worchester City Hall and Common in Massachusetts, while organizers in San Francisco, under the banner #NoBanNoWallSF, urged residents to join the resistance against Donald Trumps racist and exclusionary Executive Orders on Saturday. We will not allow our country to be divided by hate and religious persecution, read a statement from #NoBanNoWallSF posted on Facebook. Facebook

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Obama carefully weighs in on refugee ban, says he is heartened by public response By Michael A. Memoli (Jim Watson / AFP/Getty Images) Former President Obama has offered his first public comment on the conduct of his successor, saying through a spokesman that he is heartened by public demonstrations against the Trump administrations controversial move to temporarily ban refugees and block all admissions from seven countries. President Obama is heartened by the level of engagement taking place in communities around the country, Kevin Lewis, a spokesperson for the former president, said in a statement emailed to reporters Monday. In his final official speech as President, he spoke about the important role of citizen and how all Americans have a responsibility to be the guardians of our democracy--not just during an election but every day. Citizens exercising their constitutional right to assemble, organize and have their voices heard by their elected officials is exactly what we expect to see when American values are at stake. Lewis also said in the statement that Obama fundamentally disagrees with the notion of discriminating against individuals because of their faith or religion. Trump aides deny that his executive order, released Friday, involves religious discrimination. The order temporarily blocked travel to the U.S. by residents of seven predominantly Muslim nations, but left many of the Islamic worlds largest population centers unaffected, they note. The order also included an exception for believers of minority religions in those countries, a provision that Trump explicitly said would help Christians. Obamas statement is notable less for its content than for the fact that it was issued at all. It reflected the delicate balance he feels he must strike between showing a degree of deference to the new president and speaking out on issues he sees as critically important. The statement tiptoed around the content of the order, focusing more on the former presidents interest in citizen engagement. Obama said before leaving office that he expected to choose carefully when to comment on the actions of his successor and would focus less on normal functioning of politics and more on certain issues or certain moments where I think our core values may be at stake, as he put it in his final news conference. Mondays statement did point, though, to comments Obama made at a news conference in November 2015, when he called the idea of a religious test for immigration policy shameful and not American. We dont have religious tests to our compassion, he said at the time. Facebook

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GOP-led Congress worries about its role in the Trump era By Lisa Mascaro Its what congressional Republicans had long dreamed about: a majority in both chambers to advance conservative policies and a president from the same party to sign them into law. But the Trump White House isnt turning out exactly the way they envisioned. The GOP establishment is experiencing whiplash after a week of President Trump bulldozing through the norms of policy and protocol  dashing off executive orders without warning, escalating a diplomatic crisis with the countrys closest southern neighbor, triggering global confusion with a new refugee policy and generally hijacking party leaders agenda and replacing it with his own. Rather than the hoped-for collaborative new relationship between the White House and Congress, GOP officials complain that Trump is brushing aside their advice, failing to fully engage on drafting tough legislative packages like tax reform and Obamacare, and bypassing Congress by relying on executive actions, something they frequently complained about under President Obama. At the same time, Trumps unilateral moves continue to blindside Republicans and direct the national focus toward topics many in the party would rather avoid, whether thats how to pay for building the border wall with Mexico, warming ties with Russia, investigating false claims about voter fraud or, most recently, implementing sweeping new policies on refugees and visas. In the name of party unity, many Republicans so far have refrained from publicly attacking the new president. But for some, the new refugee policy crossed the line, signaling the first major rift in their already fraught partnership. Read More Facebook

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Washington state sues Trump over immigration order By Mark Z. Barabak President Trump signed an executive order Friday that suspends all immigration for citizens of seven Muslim-majority countries for 90 days. (Evan Vucci / Associated Press) Opening a new legal front, lawyers for the state of Washington filed suit Monday seeking to block President Trumps executive order temporarily banning foreign refugees from entering the United States. No one is above the law, not even the president, Atty. Gen. Bob Ferguson said in announcing the federal lawsuit. And in the courtroom, it is not the loudest voice that prevails. Its the Constitution. Over the weekend, a federal judge in Brooklyn issued an order curtailing portions of Trumps executive order, issued Friday, which temporary halts migration from seven predominantly Muslim countries for at least 90 days and also closed the nation to refugees for at least the next four months. Other challenges are pending. The lawsuit filed in federal court in Seattle was the first taken by a state attorney general, and its provenance was no surprise. Washington state and others along the West Coast voted overwhelmingly for Democrat Hillary Clinton in November and have emerged as a hotbed of anti-Trump sentiment. We will not yield, said Democratic Washington Gov. Jay Inslee, who joined Ferguson at a Seattle news conference. We will not be leveraged. We will not be threatened. We will not be intimidated. We will not be bullied by this. Trumps order, which has sparked demonstrations across the country, brought an outpouring of objection from Insleys Democratic colleagues around the country. President Trumps recent executive orders that divide and discriminate do not reflect the values enshrined in the U.S. Constitution or the principles we stand for as Oregonians, said Gov. Kate Brown. A single executive order does not define who we are as a country, said Connecticut Gov. Daniel P. Malloy. We are a nation of immigrants and must continue to fight for the tired, the poor, and the huddled masses yearning to breath free. In Massachusetts, another state that voted overwhelmingly for Clinton, Republican Gov. Charlie Baker joined the chorus of Democratic criticism, saying the travel ban would undermine the international relations forged by the states business, academic and healthcare communities. The confusion for families is real. The unexpected disruption for law-abiding people is real, Baker said. Thankfully, the federal courts will have an opportunity to straighten this out and it is my hope they do so, and do so quickly. Facebook

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How a top conservative radio host took on Trump, lost his audience and faith, but gained a new perspective By Mark Z. Barabak Charlie Sykes, right, interviews Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) before Wisconsins 2016 primary (Morry Gash/Associated Press) For nearly 25 years, Charlie Sykes was one of the most powerful and influential voices in Wisconsin. He cheer-led policies that turned this historically progressive state into a model of conservative governance. He made and destroyed political careers, using his perch on Milwaukee talk radio to help vault figures such as House Speaker Paul Ryan and Gov. Scott Walker to national prominence. But for the moment Sykes was speechless. He sank into the brown leather banquette of a suburban steakhouse. He stammered. He sighed. When youve devoted your whole life to certain beliefs and you think now they have been undermined and that you might have been deluded about things, he began. So. So. Um... In 2016 Sykes emerged as one of Donald Trumps most prominent critics, a stance that outraged listeners, strained longstanding friendships and left him questioning much of what he once held true. Read More Facebook

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Pentagon compiling a list of Iraqis who aided the U.S. military and wants them shielded from Trumps travel ban By W.J. Hennigan The Pentagon is compiling a list of Iraqi citizens who have worked with the U.S. military and is recommending that they be exempt from President Trumps temporary ban on entry to the U.S. by people from Iraq and six other predominantly Muslim countries, according to the U.S. military. The move could potentially shield tens of thousands of Iraqi interpreters, advisors, and others who have assisted the American military from the presidents controversial executive action that blocked visitors from Iraq, Iran, Syria, Sudan, Somalia, Libya and Yemen. Capt. Jeff Davis, a Pentagon spokesman, told reporters Monday that the list will include names of individuals who have demonstrated their commitment to helping the United States. Even people that are doing seemingly benign things in support of us  whether as a linguist, a driver, anything else  they often do that at great personal risk, he said. So people who take these risks are really making a tangible signal of support to the United States, and thats something that will, and should be, recognized. The list would not require any changes to the presidents order, but rather serve as guidance to the Department of Homeland Security and the White House in implementing the new policy. White House spokesman Sean Spicer later pushed back against blanket exemptions. We recognize that people have served this country, we should make sure that in those cases theyre helped out, he said. But that doesnt mean that we just give them a pass. Trump, who signed the order at the Pentagon on Friday, did not consult Defense Secretary James N. Mattis or Gen. Joseph F. Dunford Jr., the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, on the temporary suspensions of entry to visitors from the seven nations, according to U.S. officials. The executive action put the U.S. military in a difficult position because it works closely with the Iraqi government on a range of issues, including the fight against Islamic State, which necessitates travel between the two countries. For instance, Iraqi military pilots train to fly F-16 fighter jets at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona. Its not clear those pilots, who are active in the fight against Islamic State, could arrive in the U.S. for the training. 1:10 p.m.: This post was updated with White House response. Facebook

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Trump signs order on rulemaking: For every regulation added, agencies have to cut 2 others By Noah Bierman (Evan Vucci / Associated Press) President Trump signed an executive order Monday designed to fulfill his campaign pledge reduce red tape for businesses. The two-page order requires that when a federal agency proposes new regulations, it shall identify at least two existing regulations to be repealed. We want to make the life easier for small businesses and big business, Trump said Monday from the Roosevelt Room of the White House, where he met with nine representatives of the small-business sector. Trump said he hoped to see up to 75% of federal regulations eliminated during his presidency. Regulation has been horrible for big business, but its been worse for small business, Trump said. He also reiterated his promise to gut the Dodd-Frank Act, the financial regulatory overhaul that was passed after the financial crisis. Dodd-Frank is a disaster, he said. Were going to be doing a big number on Dodd-Frank. Consumer advocates who backed the law say that eliminating it would help Wall Street and other players in the financial sector at the expense of consumers. Facebook

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U.S. diplomats to protest Trumps travel ban order By Tracy Wilkinson Protesters of President Trumps immigration order block traffic at LAX. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) A number of U.S. diplomats are condemning President Trumps ban on some Muslim immigrants and visitors, saying the abrupt order does not make the U.S. safer and will only stoke anti-American fervor overseas. The complaint, being made through the State Departments so-called dissent channel, echoes criticism coming from human rights attorneys, legal experts and lawmakers from both political parties, as well as world leaders. It is significant because it represents the viewpoint of the men and women who must carry out Trumps unconventional and often provocative foreign policy. A policy which closes our doors to over 200-million legitimate travelers in the hopes of preventing a small number of travelers who intend to harm Americans ... will not achieve its aim of making our country safer, said a draft version of the memo that was circulating Monday and was reviewed by the Los Angeles Times. It was first reported by ABC News. Moreover, such a policy runs counter to core American values of non-discrimination, fair play and extending a warm welcome to foreign visitors and immigrants. The White House was quickly dismissive of the dissent and seemed to suggest the diplomats should quit if they disagree with a policy. Trump spokesman Sean Spicer said the diplomats raising of opposition does call into question whether or not they should continue to work in the State Department. It was not clear how many officials would sign the memo. Dissent channel memos are in theory not made public. The mechanism is designed to allow diplomats to offer an alternative policy without fear of retaliation. Acting State Department spokesman Mark Toner confirmed the existence of the memo but declined to comment on its contents. The dissent channel is a longstanding official vehicle for State Department employees to convey alternative views and perspectives on policy issues, he said. "... It allows State employees to express divergent policy views candidly and privately to senior leadership. The agency is still waiting for a boss. Trumps pick for secretary of State, former Exxon Mobil CEO Rex Tillerson, is expected to be confirmed by the Senate this week. The last time a dissent-channel memo was reported publicly was last year, when about 50 diplomats protested Obama administration policy in Syria, which they described as inaction. 12:20 p.m.: This story was updated with White House comment. 8:40 a.m.: This story was updated with comment from a State Department spokesman. Facebook

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Trump to announce his Supreme Court choice Tuesday -- in prime time By Michael A. Memoli (Susan Walsh / Associated Press) President Trump will announce his first Supreme Court nomination in prime time on Tuesday, he tweeted this morning. I have made my decision on who I will nominate for The United States Supreme Court. It will be announced live on Tuesday at 8:00 P.M. (W.H.)  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 30, 2017 The announcement was moved up two days amid the continued fallout from the executive action Trump signed temporarily banning refugee admissions from some countries. Trump had tweeted last week that he would announce his high-court decision Thursday. In an interview with the Christian Broadcasting Network on Friday, Trump said his administration was doing some final vetting of his choice to replace the late Antonin Scalia, and that the pick would be from among the list of 20 names he issued during the election campaign. I think the person I pick will be big, big, he said. I think people are going to love it. I think evangelicals, Christians will love my pick. And will be represented very fairly. Times Supreme Court reporter David Savage profiled each of the leading contenders: Judge Thomas Hardiman of the U.S. 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals, Judge Neil M. Gorsuch of the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals, and Judge William H. Pryor Jr. from the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals. The move could prompt a major clash with Senate Democrats, who have warned the president against a choice outside what they consider the mainstream. Some are threatening to block any choice in retaliation for Senate Republicans refusal to even hold hearings on President Obamas choice to replace Scalia, Merrick Garland. Democrats 2013 change to Senate rules that allowed most nominations to advance with a simple majority vote exempted Supreme Court nominations, meaning that Democrats could potentially filibuster the choice. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) appeared to rule out any further rule change in an interview last week, though Trump urged him to consider doing so. Facebook

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As Hollywood gathered at the SAG Awards, some entertainers joined LAX protest Facebook

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This New York doctor went to visit family in Sudan, and now hes stuck By Molly Hennessy-Fiske Dr. Kamal Fadlalla (Dr. Kamal Fadlalla / For The Times) Dr. Kamal Fadlalla, a hospital resident who has been working in New York for the last 20 months, was stuck in Sudan on Sunday, having gone there to see his family earlier this month. He had left Jan. 13, was due to return Feb. 4 but tried to return on Friday after hearing about President Trumps executive order on immigration, which suspended entry for people from seven countries, including Sudan. He made it past passport control, all the way to the gate at the airport in Khartoum, the Sudanese capital. One hour before departure they called my name, he said, and summoned him to the ticket counter, along with other New York-bound Sudanese passengers. When I got to the counter, they said there was a notice from Customs and Border Protection that ... they had to offload us from the flight. I was shocked. Fadlalla, 33, hoped for a reprieve as other passengers gathered, all stuck. One family, they came back from Dubai, she was a mother of three or four kids. She was waiting overnight at the Dubai airport. There were also two passengers turned back from New York, he said. It was a very tough night on me, He stayed for several hours, then returned to his mothers home in Madani, two hours south. Fadlalla is a second-year resident in internal medicine at Interfaith Medical Center in Brooklyn. He is hoping to specialize in hematology and oncology. The Committee for Interns and Residents found an attorney to represent him, he said, but he had not received any news about how a New York federal judges ruling late Saturday, which halted the deportations of people who had arrived in the U.S. with valid visas, could affect him. I dont know what Im going to do. My vacation is going to end and I have to join the hospital next week. Its going to be tough on me, Fadlalla said. I dont know for how long Im going to stay here. I dont know what Im going to do. My visa is valid for three months. Im really stuck. I have my house there, my utilities, my work, my patients, my colleagues. It was my life for the past 20 months. And Im stuck here. Fadlalla is from northern Sudan, and describes himself as a moderate Muslim. He said the executive order wont make the U.S. safer by barring valid visa holders like him because, Ive been through the whole process of visa interviews. He had planned to take board exams next year, and if he misses them, his schooling will be delayed. He had wanted to stay and work in New York, too. All my life is there. Now Im stuck here. I dont know what to do, he said. Its going to really affect my life, my patients, my colleagues and their work schedule. He said the executive order has shocked others in Sudan, too. Theyre talking about human rights. Everybody knows the United States is about freedom, he said. Everybody knows America is a free country, a country of chances for everybody. Still, people have hope in those protesting at airports all over the United States and attorneys who have volunteered to help immigrants and refugees, he said. He said the order is especially worrying for aspiring Sudanese medical residents who have been preparing to match with a hospital in March to study in the United States. A lot of my colleagues who are preparing for exams are really, really worried about this, Fadlalla said. Im really worried about the future of these young people. They study a lot and spend a lot of money, a lot of effort to enter the United States. Im concerned about my future and my colleagues future. Facebook

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Californias congressional Republicans hold their fire on Trumps refugee order By Sarah D. Wire Only a few of the states 14 Republican representatives have publicly commented on an executive order signed by President Trump on Friday that barred refugees and green card holders from seven countries from entering the country. Rep. Devin Nunes (R-Tulare) released a statement Sunday night saying that some tweaks are needed, but that his background as chairman of the House Select Intelligence Committee leads him to support the executive order. In light of attempts by jihadist groups to infiltrate fighters into refugee flows to the West, along with Europes tragic experience coping with this problem, the Trump administrations executive order on refugees is a common-sense security measure to prevent terror attacks on the homeland, Nunes said. While accommodations should be made for green card holders and those whove assisted the U.S. armed forces, this is a useful temporary measure on seven nations of concern until we can verify who is entering the United States. Rep. Ed Royce (R-Fullerton) told the Washington Post that the executive order is the right call to keep America safe, but he hopes the cases of people traveling on visas who were prevented from reentering the country are resolved quickly. Rep. Jeff Denham (R-Turlock) said Sunday on Twitter that the rollout has created confusion, and that executive orders arent the way to fix the countrys long-term problems. View Twitter post View Twitter post Several of Californias 38 Democratic congressional representatives and the states two senators were out in force over the weekend demanding the release of refugees and green card holders as well as an end to the executive order. Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) announced she would file two pieces of legislation in response. One would immediately rescind the presidents order. The second would limit executive authority under the Immigration and Nationality Act to prevent a president from unilaterally banning groups of immigrants. Its clear that the president gave little consideration to the chaos and heartbreak that would result from this order, she said in a statement. Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) joined protesters outside the White House on Sunday afternoon. We will fight against racism. We will fight against anti-Muslim rhetoric. We will fight against those who will marginalize who we are. pic.twitter.com/R54f3MDhvo  Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) January 29, 2017 In Los Angeles, Reps. Maxine Waters (D-Los Angeles) and Ted Lieu (D-Torrance) joined protesters at Los Angeles International Airport. On Saturday, Reps. Judy Chu (D-Monterey Park), Nanette Barragan (D-San Pedro) and Lou Correa (D-Santa Ana) joined the initial protests at the airport, and worked to get some of those being held released. Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Dublin) accompanied protesters at San Francisco International Airport on Sunday. Congresswoman @MaxineWaters is here at LAX protest leading the crowd in the chant "no ban, no wall, you build it up we'll tear it down" pic.twitter.com/iNEmkVVkmW  Javier Panzar  (@jpanzar) January 29, 2017 Facebook

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Legal moves come too late for Iranian man who arrived at LAX after Trumps order By Matt Hamilton Ali Vayeghan arrived at 7:15 p.m. Friday from Tehran. He was going to stay with relatives, then go to Indiana, to join his wife, who arrived in the U.S. four months ahead of him, and his son. But he never emerged from customs. His niece said he was put on a plane to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, at 3:15 p.m. Saturday. The ACLU was trying to prevent his deportation but arrived with paperwork 45 minutes too late. The family spoke to him by phone after he landed in Dubai, where he was waiting to be put on a flight to Tehran. Hes literally crying in the airport in Dubai, Ali Vayeghans niece, Marjan Vayghan, said. On Sunday afternoon, a federal judge in Los Angeles ordered authorities to transport Vayeghan back to the U.S. and admit him under the terms of his visa, which is set to expire Feb. 14. U.S. District Judge Dolly M. Gee said in her order that Vayeghan had demonstrated a strong likelihood of success in establishing that removal violates the Establishment Clause, the Immigration and Nationality Act, and his rights to Equal Protection guaranteed by the United States Constitution. But by the time the order came down, Vayeghan was on a plane bound for Tehran. Federal judge in LA has issued order allowing Iranian man deported from LAX yesterday to be admitted to US pic.twitter.com/yPth0xEQpv  Matt Hamilton (@MattHjourno) January 29, 2017 Facebook

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The political climate is a hot topic at the Screen Actors Guild awards The Actor statue watches over the red carpet at the Shrine Auditorium. (Matt Sayles / Invision / Associated Press) Stars on the red carpet and at the winners podium tonight in Los Angeles are not keeping their mouths shut on current affairs. The 23rd Screen Actors Guild awards are being held at the Shrine Auditorium. Heres what they have had to say so far: I want you all to know that I am the daughter of an immigrant. My father fled religious persecution in Nazi-occupied France, and Im an American patriot, and I love this country, and because I love this country, I am horrified by its blemishes and this immigrant ban is a blemish and it is un-American.  Julia Louis-Dreyfus, accepting her award for her role in Veep We need to vote. Had we all voted, we wouldnt be here. You dont like it, you dont have nothing to say if you didnt vote. Get a clipboard, get organized and get in it. Dont sit back on the sidelines. Get in it. This is a fight for the country right now. Its worth fighting for.  Courtney B. Vance, nominated for his performance in The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story For the first time ever in my lifetime, Ive been concerned about where its going to go. It doesnt seem to be that its going to go in a very positive direction.  Claire Foy, nominated for her role as Queen Elizabeth in the Netflix series The Crown Read More Facebook

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Green card holders will not be blocked by Trumps order, Homeland Security says By David Lauter (Francine Orr/Los Angeles Times) The Trump administration backed away from one of the most controversial parts of its new executive order on immigration Sunday evening, saying that permanent U.S. residents in most cases will not be affected by the new rules. Since the president issued the order Friday, confusion has been rampant over the effects on permanent residents, noncitizens who hold so-called green cards that allow them to live and work legally in the U.S. Many were stopped and detained at airports for many hours on Friday and Saturday and, in some cases, reported that they had been threatened with being returned to their home countries. An undetermined number of other green card holders were stopped from boarding U.S.-bound planes. Late Sunday, however, the secretary of Homeland Security, retired Gen. John Kelly, issued a statement changing the policy. Statement By Secretary John Kelly On The Entry Of Lawful Permanent Residents Into The United States  https://t.co/Es1qivoR3J pic.twitter.com/hffMK2MOQC  Homeland Security (@DHSgov) January 29, 2017 I hereby deem the entry of lawful permanent residents to be in the national interest, Kelly wrote. Green card holders from one of the seven countries covered by the 90-day ban will still need to request a waiver to gain reentry to the U.S. if they have traveled abroad. But unless officials have significant derogatory information about a green card holder that indicates a serious threat to public safety and welfare, lawful permanent resident status will be a dispositive factor in deciding the case, Kellys statement said. A White House official, briefing reporters about the change in policy, said that about 170 people have applied for a waiver to the ban so far, and all 170 have received a waiver and have been allowed to enter the U.S. The seven countries affected by the ban are Iran, Iraq, Syria, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. Facebook

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Uber fights immigration order -- and #DeleteUber hashtag -- with $3-million legal fund for drivers By Tracey Lien Hours after Lyfts co-founders announced a $1-million donation to the American Civil Liberties Union to defend the

Constitution, Uber Chief Executive Travis Kalanick pulled out his pocket book as well. Kalanick promised in a Facebook post that the company would create a $3-million legal defense fund to help drivers affected by the Trump administrations move to restrict immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries. The fund will help drivers with immigration and translation services. Kalanick also said the San Francisco ride-hailing company will provide 24/7 legal support to drivers stuck outside the country and compensate them for lost earnings. Drivers eligible for assistance were directed to contact the company via an online form. Although the announcement was greeted with some support on Facebook and Twitter, many saw it as too little too late. The company had come under fire a day earlier for advertising on Twitter that it was operating at New Yorks Kennedy International Airport during a taxi strike protesting the executive order. That gaffe, coupled with Kalanicks involvement in a panel advising President Trump on economic issues, helped spawn the Twitter hashtag #DeleteUber, which encouraged customers to delete the app from their phones in protest. You are 20 hours too late, one person wrote in response to Kalanicks Facebook post. Still deleted my account today, wrote another. Though Kalanick issued a statement on Saturday opposing the executive order, it didnt stop thousands of Twitter users from adopting the trending the #DeleteUber hashtag to decry Ubers actions. They accused the company of attempting to profit from the strike and prioritizing business interests over a moral imperative. Celebrities also jumped on the bandwagon, with actor and activist George Takei on Sunday tweeting to his 2.9 million followers: Lyft donates $1mil to ACLU while Uber doubles down on its support for Trump. #DeleteUber. Facebook

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75-year-old grandmother from Iran tells the story of her detention at LAX By Alene Tchekmedyian Siavosh Naji-Talakar of Phoenix hugs his grandmother Marzieh Moosavizadeh after she was released from detention at LAX early Sunday morning. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times) Marzieh Moosavizadeh and her grandson follow a routine when she visits almost every year from Iran. The 75-year-old, who travels in a wheelchair and speaks little English, struggles to find direct flights to Phoenix, where he and his family live. So they meet in Los Angeles and he escorts her on the last leg of her trip. This time was different. Moosavizadeh landed at Los Angeles International Airport a day after President Trump signed an executive order banning citizens from seven predominantly Muslim countries, including Iran, from entering the United States. Read More Facebook

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GOP senators call executive order a self-inflicted wound. Trump calls them wrong and weak By Matt Ballinger McCain and Graham in 2013. (Evan Vucci / Associated Press) U.S. Sens. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina and John McCain of Arizona released a statement Sunday saying that confusion at U.S. airports shows that President Trumps executive order on immigration was not properly vetted. Such a hasty process risks harmful results, the Republicans statement read. We should not stop green-card holders from returning to the country they call home. We should not stop those who have served as interpreters for our military and diplomats from seeking refuge in the country they risked their lives to help. And we should not turn our backs on those refugees who have been shown through extensive vetting to pose no demonstrable threat to our nation. It went on: Ultimately, we fear this executive order will become a self-inflicted wound in the fight against terrorism. The president responded on Twitter: The joint statement of former presidential candidates John McCain & Lindsey Graham is wrong - they are sadly weak on immigration. The two...  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 29, 2017 ...Senators should focus their energies on ISIS, illegal immigration and border security instead of always looking to start World War III.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 29, 2017 Facebook

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At least 600 people wait to greet Syrians arriving in Phoenix By Nigel Duara Elijah Chavez and Brandi Hernandez protest in Phoenix (Nigel Duara/Los Angeles Times) A Phoenix-bound British Airways flight was scheduled to arrive from London at Sunday evening carrying several Syrians. A protest of about 600 people was waiting at a Phoenix international airport terminal for the flight to arrive. The outcome when these people arrive is uncertain at best, said Tanveer Shah, an Arizona attorney in private practice who volunteers with the ACLU. Shah said Syrians on board the flight would, in the best case, walk off the plane without a problem. But given the outcomes in other cities on Saturday and Sunday, Shah said it was incumbent on civil liberties attorneys to be there when the plane arrives. We have staff attorneys here ... who are prepared to file emergency pleadings, Shah said. Facebook

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When Muslims got blocked at American airports, U.S. veterans rushed to help By Matt Pearce (G. Morty Ortega / Getty Images) Jeffrey Buchalter was reflooring his foyer in Chesapeake Beach, Md., and listening to MSNBC over the weekend when he heard the news: An Iraqi who had worked with American forces as an interpreter had been stopped from entering the U.S. under a new executive order on immigration from President Trump. The story stopped him cold. Buchalter, an Army veteran who works as a law-enforcement instructor at the Department of Homeland Security, had served multiple tours of duty as a military policeman in Iraq, service that cost him dearly. He was decorated for injuries sustained from gunfire and improvised explosive devices. Exams revealed hed suffered herniated discs, traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder, and he spent 2  years at Walter Reed Army Medical Center trying to get right. But he was still alive, and now the married father of two children. And he believes thats thanks in part to the work of Iraqi interpreters who acted as guides during his work in their country. So he told his younger daughter and son they were going to take a trip: a two-hour drive to Dulles International Airport outside Washington, D.C., where, for the first time in his life, Buchalter would join a protest. Read More Facebook

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Demonstrators against Trumps immigration limits  and a few who like them  surge through LAX By Javier Panzar The crowd at LAX is getting bigger and bigger. pic.twitter.com/dJ281TETXj  Javier Panzar  (@jpanzar) January 29, 2017 Thousands of people filled the international terminal at Los Angeles International Airport on Sunday afternoon to call for the release of an unknown number of people being detained by immigration authorities. Filling the arrivals section of the terminal and spilling into the street outside, the throng chanted, Let them in, and Love, not hate, makes America great. Jacob Kemper, a 35-year-old Army veteran who fought two tours in Iraq, said he was infuriated to think soldiers he fought alongside might be denied entry to the country. I really dont care about religion, but I really hate oppression, he said, holding a sign that read, I Fought Next To Muslims. Shay Soltani, a network engineer, fled the Iranian revolution 40 years ago and still has family members in Iran. She doesnt know if she will be able to see them again. As she and hundreds of others marched through the airport, she said she was horrified by Trumps order. I am so hurt by this, she said. He is against freedom of speech and the constitution and everything I believe in as an American. Meanwhile, about a dozen counter-protesters popped up on the other side of the street, holding signs that said X-treme vetting and Keep Refugees Out. They said they were tired of immigrants entering the U.S. illegally, which they said jeopardizes the safety of American citizens. Chanell Temple, 63, of Los Angeles said she was sick of watching immigrants here illegally steal benefits and services from American citizens, specifically veterans and homeless people who need aid. I worked out here for 40 years and they are coming here and taking everything away, said Temple, a former bookkeeper who said she lost her job and healthcare after she was fired for an inability to speak Spanish. Raul Rodriguez Jr., coordinator of a group called America First Latinos, said he was concerned about what he considers a surge in crimes committed against Americans by those who are in the country illegally. They are lawbreakers. They have violated federal law and they need to be deported, he said. Facebook

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Silicon Valley execs speak out against immigration ban By Tracey Lien Technology executives are speaking out against President Trumps executive order on immigration, highlighting how the ban hurts their businesses. Leaders of companies that include Google, Microsoft, Apple, Facebook, Uber, Lyft, Airbnb, Dropbox and Twitter denounced it over the weekend. Apple would not exist without immigration, let alone thrive and innovate the way we do, said Apple chief executive Tim Cook in a memo to employees. In my conversations with officials here in Washington this week, Ive made it clear that Apple believes deeply in the importance of immigration  both to our company and to our nations future. General Electric Co. chief executive Jeff Immelt said Sunday that businesses with global operations must balance working with the new administration while also supporting their workers and partners. We have many employees from the named countries and we do business all over the region, Immelt said in a statement. These employees and customers are critical to our success and they are our friends and partners. We stand with them and will work with the U.S. administration to strive to find the balance between the need for security and the movement of law abiding people. Facebook

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LAX protest grows as families wait Meg Heatherly, 27, of Los Angeles holds a Shame sign during a protest at the Tom Bradley International Terminal. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) Facebook

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L.A. city attorney barred from seeing detainees at LAX By James Queally Los Angeles City Atty. Mike Feuer said he was repeatedly denied access to federal detainees or an attorney who could discuss the situation with him at Los Angeles International Airport on Saturday night and Sunday morning. Federal officials have declined to discuss the LAX detentions or respond to Feuers criticisms. While he was at the airport, Feuer said he was approached by a woman who claimed her father, suffering from Parkinsons disease, was among the detainees. It is those kind of real stories that are at stake because of this outrageous action by the feds. It is time not only for officials in my position, but all Americans, should find this a breathtaking violation of rights.  Mike Feuer Read More Facebook

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Democratic attorneys general from 15 states condemn Trump immigration order By Ann M. Simmons California Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra (Gary Coronado / Los Angeles Times) More than a dozen Democratic attorneys general from states across the country have condemned the Trump administrations executive order suspending acceptance of refugees and have vowed to oppose it to ensure that as few people as possible suffer from the chaotic situation that it has created. In a communique Sunday, the group said: As the chief legal officers for over 130 million Americans and foreign residents of our states, we condemn President Trumps unconstitutional, un-American and unlawful Executive Order and will work together to ensure the federal government obeys the Constitution, respects our history as a nation of immigrants, and does not unlawfully target anyone because of their national origin or faith. The executive order places an indefinite ban on refugees from Syria and prohibits citizens from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen from entering as refugees for four months. It also places a suspension on admissions of other citizens of those countries. The legal officials represent 15 states. They include California Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra and his contemporaries in Washington, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Virginia, as well as the District of Columbia. Religious liberty has been, and always will be, a bedrock principle of our country, and no president can change that truth, the attorneys general said in the statement. They praised the decision of multiple federal courts to order a stay on some aspects of the order. We are confident that the Executive Order will ultimately be struck down by the courts, the statement said. Facebook

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13 people who had been detained at LAX have been released, source says By James Queally Protesters at LAX on Sunday. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) Thirteen people who were detained Saturday night at Los Angeles International Airports Terminal 2 were eventually released, a law enforcement source told The Times. Each of them held green cards, which grant permanent residency in the U.S. The source, who requested anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the situation at the airport, could not provide detention figures for the Tom Bradley International Terminal, which has been the center of protest activity. Thats where protesters were gathering Sunday. Nurse Jamie Shoemaker, 51, of Los Angeles held an American flag in one hand and carried a sign that read, Muslims are welcome here, racists and fascists are not. She called Trumps order un-American. This is not the country I want, she said. This is not the country I grew up in. Read More Facebook

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Democrats in Congress drafting legislation to repeal Trumps refugee ban, pressuring GOP for support By Lisa Mascaro Sen. Chuck Schumer becomes emotional speaking against Pres. Trump's immigration order, calling it "mean-spirited and un-American." pic.twitter.com/NkhUdpaNyV  ABC News Politics (@ABCPolitics) January 29, 2017 Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer and Democrats will introduce legislation as soon as Monday to stop President Trumps actions temporarily banning refugees and arrivals from certain Muslim countries. House Democrats are taking similar legislative action, and lawmakers from both chambers will rally Monday evening at the Supreme Court to protest Trumps orders. This executive order was mean-spirited and un-American, said Schumer, the New York Democrat, choking up as he stood with immigrants and refugees at a press conference Sunday. It must be reversed immediately. Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi said House Democrats are exploring legal options, including an amicus brief in support of the ACLU lawsuit against the actions. The chances of passing a bill through the Republican-controlled Congress are slim, as most GOP leaders and lawmakers have not objected to Trumps ban. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) said Sunday that while he was personally opposed to a religious test on admissions, it was best left to the courts to resolve the issue. Its hopefully going to be decided in the courts as to whether or not this has gone too far, McConnell said on ABCs This Week. House Speaker Paul D. Ryan (R-Wis.) expressed his support Friday for Trumps action. A handful of Republicans, though, are uneasy with Trumps orders, and have spoken against them. Schumer noted that just few more Republicans would be needed to reach the 60-vote threshold for advancing Senate legislation. Maybe we can pass something in Congress, Schumer said. Its up to Republicans. Facebook

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Emotional reunion at JFK airport after release of elderly Sudanese man from immigration detention By Barbara Demick Tears and hugs at JFK's international arrivals as a detainee is released, reuniting father with son. More families wait, cheering. pic.twitter.com/WrVpoocWjY  Jack Smith IV (@JackSmithIV) January 29, 2017 For those immigrants temporarily detained under a new Trump administration executive order at New Yorks John F. Kennedy International Airport, attorneys have put a priority on getting some of the older detainees released to their families. One small victory for the lawyers was the case of Yassin Abdelrhman, a 76-year-old green card holder from Sudan who had been detained after a trip home to visit family. He was released about noon on Sunday after being detained for 30 hours. Soon, he was reunited with his sons. He is a strong individual, but he has some health challenges, said U.S. Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), who had been working on their case. Facebook

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Iranian director Asghar Farhadi will not attend Oscars Iranian filmmaker Asghar Farhadi after winning an Oscar in 2012. ((Allen J. Schaben/ Los Angeles Times) ) In a statement to the New York Times today, Oscar-winning Iranian filmmaker Asghar Farhadi said he no longer planned to attend this years ceremony. Farhadis film The Salesman is nominated in the foreign language film category. Farhadi had initially hoped to attend despite the prohibition on visitors from Iran. But he said he had decided the possibility of this presence is being accompanied by ifs and buts which are in no way acceptable to me even if exceptions were to be made for my trip. Read More Facebook

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How an Iranian Fulbright scholar got into the U.S.: We found a lawyer who found a lawyer who found a lawyer By Barbara Demick Iranian students in front of a makeshift law office in JFKs Terminal 4. (Barbara Demick / Los Angeles Times) Perhaps nothing encapsulates the chaos emanating from President Trumps executive order better than what happened with Ukrainian Airlines Flight 232. The regularly scheduled flight to Kiev had to turn around on the tarmac at John F. Kennedy Airport early Sunday after a federal judge issued a stay of a deportation order of dozens of foreigners, including a 32-year-old Iranian linguist who is a doctoral candidate and former Fulbright scholar. With just minutes to spare, Vahideh Rasekhi -- helped by volunteer lawyers and her smart phone  managed to prevent the flight from taking off. She had arrived Saturday afternoon, but was blocked from entering the United States by the executive order barring arrivals of citizens of Iran, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Somalia and Libya. Around midnight, she was put on the Ukrainian Air flight to return to Tehran, via Kiev. We found a lawyer who found a lawyer who found a lawyer, said Mehdi Namazi, 29, a friend who has been waiting for her at the airport. The lawyers were showing officials a copy of the order issued a few hours earlier by U.S. District Court Judge Ann Donnelly in Brooklyn. It was all very confusing. They were arguing as the plane was taxiing, Namazi said. According to one lawyer, Melissa Trent, Rasekhi herself was walking up and down the aisles arguing for the plane not to take off. She knew that if the plane left she would never get back to the United States again, Trent said. Rasekhi spent most of Sunday in detention with other Iranians, but was released into the United States at around 3 p.m.. A dozen Iranian friends had been waiting inside the airports Terminal 4 amid a clutter of discarded coffee cups and half-eaten donuts in front of a diner that had been turned into a makeshift law office. Another Iranian student was waiting for her parents, who were taken into detention after arriving on another flight I havent seen them in 3-1/2 years. They dont speak English. But Im hopeful, said the student, who gave her name as Sahar. The students were both furious at the way their country had been targeted by Trumps order and touched by the outpouring of support from the volunteer lawyers. We see two different Americas here. There is this order banning us, and than there are all these people here who came to the airport. If it werent for these volunteers, she would have been deported, said Namazi. Im very depressed. We feel betrayed by this country that we invested so much energy and hope into. We are all graduate students, professors, PhDs, engineers. To say this is for national security, it doesnt add up, said Tahmineh Tabrizian, 33, another friend of Rasekhis. She said her own parents had planned to come to the United States and had spent $14,000 on tickets and visas and would now have to cancel their trip. Rasekhi, who has lived in the United States for a decade, was a Fulbright scholar at UC Santa Barbara and received a masters degree at Fresno State University, according to a resume supplied by one of her friends. She had been studying for a PhD at Stony Brook University on Long Island. She had gone to Tehran over the Christmas break to visit her parents and was on her way back to resume her studies when she was detained. Facebook

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Protests begin again at LAX on Sunday morning By Genaro Molina Facebook

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Protesters in Tel Aviv compare Trump immigration order to Israeli refugee policies By Joshua Mitnick Demonstrators in Tel Aviv protest U.S. President Trumps new immigration order. (Joshua Mitnick / Los Angeles Times) Holding signs reading Refugees Welcome and chanting No Ban, No Wall, Sanctuary for All, several dozen demonstrators gathered outside the U.S. Embassy in Tel Aviv on Sunday to join protests in the U.S. against President Trumps new immigration policy. Mia Zur Szpiro, a 36-year-old filmmaker, said she felt compelled to demonstrate because her parents survived the Holocaust. We are a country of immigrants, and to me it was astounding that this [order] was passed on Holocaust Memorial Day, she said. Its wrong to stereotype, and its wrong to send people who are in need back into the face of danger and the risk of death. Elliot Vaisbrub Glassenberg, a protest organizer and migrant rights activist, compared the new U.S. policy to Israeli policies toward tens of thousands of Eritrean and Sudanese migrants who crossed into the country illegally from Egypts Sinai desert. The policies that Trump has enacted are no worse than the policies that [Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin] Netanyahu has enacted for years here  such as not allowing any non-Jews to be given refugee status in Israel, except for a select few. Togod Omar, a native of Sudan who was at the protest, said he applied for political asylum in Israel three years ago, and is still waiting. He said Sudanese friends hoping to be resettled in the U.S. were upset by the new executive order. Trump doesnt understand whats going on in Sudan, Omar said. You cant punish the Sudanese people for what the Islamic government is doing. You cant banish someone because of their religion. Facebook

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President Trump hits majority disapproval in record time, Gallup finds By David Lauter Days until achieving MAJORITY disapproval from @Gallup



Reagan: 727

Bush I: 1336

Clinton: 573

Bush II: 1205

Obama: 936



Trump: 8. days. pic.twitter.com/kv2fy0Qsbp  Will Jordan (@williamjordann) January 29, 2017 President Trumps actions during his first week in office have appeared to be aimed at the voters who already supported him, not at reaching out to the rest, and thats taken a rapid toll on his support, which was already historically low. Gallup, which has measured job approval for presidents for decades, shows Trumps approval so far at 45%, with 48% disapproving. Thats an average of several days polling. The daily trend lines are not kind to the new administration. As of Saturday, 51% of Americans disapproved of Trumps performance. Thats a record for the speed of getting to majority disapproval. By comparison, President George W. Bush hit majority disapproval six months into his second term, in June 2005, and remained in negative territory for the rest of his tenure. President Obama did not hit 51% disapproval until August of 2011, during the crisis over the federal debt ceiling that summer. His approval rebounded later that year, but he had a second period of majority disapproval during late 2013 and much of 2014. He ended his term with widespread approval and 37% of Americans disapproving. Trump Job Approval: Approve 45% (-1); Disapprove 48% (+3). Get the full trend https://t.co/BjTUhf0NAM.  GallupNews (@GallupNews) January 27, 2017 Facebook

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Hundreds of travelers were caught in limbo over rushed visa ban By Brian Bennett (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times) Hundreds of travelers were blocked from entering the U.S. or prevented from boarding flights in the hours after President Trump signed his order banning arrivals from seven predominantly Muslim countries, according to the Department of Homeland Security. In the order, Trump temporarily suspended refugee admissions and banned travelers from Iran, Iraq, Syria, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. Scores of people from those countries were aboard airplanes flying toward the U.S. when Trump signed his executive order on Friday afternoon, setting off waves of confusion among border officials and the traveling public. Upon landing at U.S. airports, 109 people from the listed countries were detained by immigration officials and prevented from entering the U.S., officials said. The department had approved 81 waivers to the new travel ban by Saturday afternoon, the official said, but at least some of the people detained on arrival were sent back to their countries of origin. Court orders issued Saturday evening required U.S. border officials to stop returning people who had already arrived with valid visas. It is unclear how many people were deported before the orders were issued. It is also unclear if the Trump administration has fully complied with those orders. In addition to the people who arrived in the U.S. and were detained, as of 3 p.m. on Saturday, an additional 173 travelers from the listed countries had been stopped from boarding flights to the U.S., a Homeland Security official said in a statement. The department did not make an official available to describe the actions and the agencys response. As many as 3,250 travelers may have been inconvenienced by the new visa restrictions, officials for the department said in a statement Sunday. Yesterday, less than 1% of the more than 325,000 international air travelers who arrive every day were inconvenienced while enhanced security measures were implemented, the statement read. The department will comply with court orders, the statement said. But no evidence was given to confirm this. Lawyers seeking to meet with detainees at Dulles International Airport outside of Washington and at San Francisco have said that they were blocked by officials on Sunday. The Department of Homeland Security will comply with judicial orders, faithfully enforce our immigration laws, and implement President Trumps executive orders to ensure that those entering the United States do not pose a threat to our country or the American people, according to the departments statement. All of the visa holders and travelers from the listed countries blocked from entering the U.S. since Friday already had gone through multiple steps of security screening that checked their biographical information and travel history against U.S. terrorism databases. Facebook

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White House seems to back down on part of new vetting policy By Christi Parsons The White House on Sunday appeared to back down on a key part of President Trumps tough new immigration order, signaling that travelers trying to enter the country from seven banned countries will be allowed in if they hold green cards. White House Chief of Staff Reince Priebus said that these legal permanent residents are exempt from the travel ban moving forward, even though over the weekend other administration officials said the rule did apply to them. The apparent reversal came amid a national controversy over the new Trump order that temporarily halts the entry of all refugees to the U.S. and any traveler from seven majority Muslim countries: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen. Federal judges across the country have blocked parts of the presidents executive actions since they came down on Friday, mostly preventing the deportation of some travelers who ran into the first wave of implementation over the weekend. The back-and-forth over the green-card holders reflected a generalized confusion about the new order, which also bars Syrian refugees from entering the United States indefinitely. Lawyers for some of the affected immigrants said border agents seemed uncertain about the new rules and were disagreeing with one another about which travelers were affected and which were not. Further complicating the picture was a statement from the Department of Homeland Security asserting that its agents would enforce all of Trumps orders while also complying with judicial orders. As some of the orders block deportation, that left individual officers to try to figure out which priorities to honor. Facebook

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Op-Ed: Trumps cruel, illegal refugee executive order By Erwin Chemerinsky Protesters demonstrate at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City on Saturday. (Stephanie Keith / Getty Images) Barring individuals fleeing persecution from entering the United States is simply inhumane. Adding irony to injury, Trumps executive order was issued on Holocaust Remembrance Day, which should have been an occasion to atone for turning away refugees during the 1930ssome of whom then died in concentration camps. For example, in 1939, the United States turned away the St. Louis, a boat filled with refugees, many of them German Jews. According to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, 254 passengers from the St. Louis died in the Holocaust.  Erwin Chemerinsky Read More Facebook

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Lyft pledges to donate $1 million to ACLU following Trumps immigration order By Tracey Lien (Richard Vogel / Associated Press) Tech executives had been mostly quiet for the first week of Donald Trumps presidency  but that changed after his controversial executive order restricting refugees and immigrants from seven Muslim-majority countries. Executive after executive spent Saturday tweeting and posting messages to Facebook decrying the administrations actions. Lyft co-founders John Zimmer and Logan Green went a step further: On Sunday, they announced they would donate $1 million to the American Civil Liberties Union over the next four years. Banning people of a particular faith or creed, race or identity, sexuality or ethnicity, from entering the U.S. is antithetical to both Lyft and our nations core values, the co-founders wrote in an email to Lyft customers. We stand firmly against the actions, and will no
Mariners Mile in Newport Beach could become more of a pedestrian-friendly, village-like setting under plans going through City Hall.

On Thursday at the Marina Park community room, city officials presented their third workshop on an ongoing revitalization effort for the 1.3-mile stretch of West Coast Highway between Newport Boulevard and Dover Drive.

Envisioned is a village-type area along Avon Street  which could be extended west to Santa Ana Avenue  as well as Tustin and Riverside avenues.

It also may include a boardwalk along the edge of Newport Harbor, pedestrian bridges over West Coast Highway and pedestrian scrambles, or intersections where vehicle traffic stops in all directions so pedestrians can travel in any direction.

Notable among the plans was the potential addition of two parking structures: one next to the Sterling BMW dealership and another by the Holiday Inn Express. Those two areas currently contain flat parking lots.

But some people attending the workshop expressed concerns about additional traffic, especially after city officials said a lane expansion for West Coast Highway is scheduled to go before the Planning Commission on Feb. 9.

Others contended that the plans, which city officials said are very long range, were being drawn up without much input from residents and would cheapen the look of Newport Beach, which they dont want to resemble adjacent Huntington Beach.

The Mariners Mile revitalization effort is being conducted by city staff and PlaceWorks, a Santa Ana-based planning consulting firm. The final result is intended to replace another plan officially called the Mariners Mile Strategic Vision and Design Framework that was adopted in 2000.

The revitalization plan is expected to be released for public review later this year. It also will face the scrutiny of the Planning Commission and ultimately the City Council.

Mariners Mile was identified in 2011 as a zone in need of revitalization. It originally was a nautical-centric area but has gradually changed to include luxury car dealers and restaurants.

bradley.zint@latimes.com

Twitter: @BradleyZint
Last weekends Womens March  here in Santa Ana and Laguna Beach and around the world  was a vivid display of the fervency of millions propelled into action by the horrific verbiage and proposed actions of the new administration.

While organizers of the Womens March on Washington, as well as the hundreds of Sister Marches, were careful to position the event as one of positive, aspirational expression rather than a Trump protest, the sea of pink P hats and clever sign slogans showed otherwise.

Will this goodwill and civic engagement advance its objectives to protect equal rights, preserve access to healthcare and security and embrace inclusion? To reject misogyny, bigotry and social injustice?

Or will its hopeful message and its pleas for human rights (already litigated and hard-won) fall on deaf ears, as government representatives are fortified by the perceived might of their recent electoral wins?

Much depends on the strategic efforts of those committed to these aspirations, and the efficacy of movements imagined to channel them. The Indivisible Guide, a publication written by Congressional staffers designed to mirror the effective grassroots methods of the Tea Party but toward better aims, conveys this organizational wisdom. Their key recommendations are:

1.) To activate on a consistent basis, with an organized local strategy targeting individual members of Congress.

2. A defensive approach focused on blocking an agenda built on racism, authoritarianism and corruption.

Here in California, our senators largely support more-enlightened views on equal rights, fairness, access to health care, public safety, climate change and limitations on corporate influence. Our GOP Representatives in the House, not so much. Many are not aware that Reps. Mimi Walters (R-Irvine) and Dana Rohrabacher (R-Costa Mesa) have repeatedly voted in favor of the conservative GOP agenda, including the repeal of the Affordable Care Act, against basic gun-safety measures, and supporting corporate financial interests over environmental protections.

Many of us are despondent about the election results, but make no mistake: we will not sit quietly as the economic, social and environmental advances of the past decades are unraveled. We have awoken, we expect our voices to be heard, and we will hold the representatives who serve at our pleasure accountable.

DIANE BUCKA is a freelance writer and content marketing specialist from Irvine.
When it comes to climate change, most Americans are like the passengers on a jetliner wanting to arrive safely at their destination but thinking theres no need to be involved with the actual flying of the plane. The people in charge, surely, have things under control.

Lately, however, the plane has experienced a rough ride:

Near Christmas Day, the temperature at Santas workshop  a.k.a. the North Pole  approached the melting point of 32 degrees Fahrenheit, about 40 degrees above average for that time of year, according to USA Today.

With 2016 hitting another high mark for average global temperature, 16 of the 17 hottest years on record have occurred in the current century, according to the Washington Post.

Floods, like the disasters that struck Louisiana and North Carolina this year, are happening as a result of unprecedented rainfall measured in feet rather than inches.

As we start the new year, millions across Africa are without food because of crop failures caused by droughts and floods exacerbated by climate change.

All this turbulence is prompting some of the passengers to rise from their seats, walk to the cockpit and check with the pilot. Upon opening the door, however, they are shocked to see no one seated at the controls.

For a number of years, President Obama did his best to keep the plane aloft with executive orders to address climate change, chiefly to reduce carbon dioxide emissions at power plants. But the 44th president has donned his parachute and exited the plane, leaving the pilots seat disturbingly empty.

So, how do we avoid crashing into a mountainside?

Its time for the passengers to start flying the plane, and by passengers, we mean citizens. This entails setting aside cynicism about our government and engaging with people in Congress who represent us in Washington. Government will respond to the will of the people, provided the people tell the government what we want.

Engaging with our government also requires us to seek common ground between Republicans and Democrats. We can find that common ground by listening as much as we talk. And if we listen, we find that the greatest concern about acting on climate change  whether through regulation or carbon pricing  is the impact it will have on our economy, the fear that jobs will be lost.

We can alleviate those fears and find that common ground with a market-based solution that holds polluters accountable for the damage caused to our air, water and climate. Such a market-based solution needs to be revenue neutral, thereby preventing it from increasing the size of government. A steadily rising fee on carbon, with all revenue returned to households, would bring down greenhouse gas emissions while boosting the economy.

But in our highly polarized political atmosphere, is it really possible for Republicans and Democrats in Congress to work together on climate change?

Hopeful signs emerged in 2016 with the creation of the bipartisan House Climate Solutions Caucus, which has equal membership from both sides of the aisle. The caucus creates a safe space for Republicans and Democrats, weary of the bickering and posturing surrounding the climate issue, to have an honest dialogue about ways to reduce the risks we face in a warming world.

In the coming year, as more and more citizens interact with their members of Congress, we can grow the ranks within the Climate Solutions Caucus and reach the critical mass necessary to introduce and pass bipartisan legislation.

None of this can happen, however, unless we take control of the plane and put it back on course. As Apollo astronaut Rusty Schweickart once said, We arent passengers on spaceship Earth, were the crew. We arent residents on this planet, were citizens. The difference in both cases is responsibility.

MARK REYNOLDS of San Diego is executive director of Citizens Climate Lobby, which has a branch in Newport Beach.
Forest Lawn Museum in Glendale is the first in the U.S. to host an exhibit documenting David Bowies tour of Mexico City 20 years ago with photos of the late musician exploring historic sites and landmarks.

The free exhibit, titled Among the Mexican Masters, captures Bowie through 40 photographs visiting the pyramids of Teotihuacan, the Frida Kahlo Museum and locations with murals by Mexican artists Diego Rivera, Jose Clemente Orozco and David Alfaro Siqueiros.

Rock and jazz photographer Fernando Aceves was assigned to follow Bowie during the musicians show at the Foro Sol Stadium, his only performance ever in Mexico City.

Forest Lawn is very proud to pay homage and represent this amazing exhibit, said museum director and exhibit curator Ana Pescador. It is a great opportunity to find out more about not only the history of Mexico but about David Bowie.

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Pescador met Aceves while working at the Mexican consulate in Los Angeles, where he was giving a private exhibit of about 10 photographs from the collection. After learning the images had only been shown in a smaller format in Mexico City, London and a few magazines, Pescador felt she had to get a hold of and share the entire collection.

In this exhibit, David Bowie is appreciating another culture and speaking as someone very involved with the art  we need to respect and admire other peoples cultures, Pescadero said. This is what a British artist is doing to the Mexican history and to Mexico even though the two went through tough times.

The photos were originally intended to appear as part of an unpublished article Bowie planned on writing. Now, with the collections debut at Forest Lawn, Aceves said he can invite people to walk alongside Bowie.

There is one photo of Bowie in front of a mural by Diego Rivera. On the left side, you can see some kids at the classroom looking ahead, and David posed himself looking [the] same direction, Aceves said. Whenever I revisit that place, I see people taking pictures of themselves in the same position as David. Its made an impact, and they want to be in those places.

According to Pescadero, the museum is planning to add educational programming to accompany the exhibit and invite guest lecturers to explain the art and murals showcased by Bowies appreciation of Mexico City.

The exhibit will be on display through June 15 at Forest Lawn Museum, 1712 S. Glendale Ave., Glendale.

For more information, visit forestlawn.com.

--

Jeff Landa, jeff.landa@latimes.com

Twitter: @JeffLanda
There I was, using 20 minutes out of my 56-minute period on Jan. 20 showing my mostly non-native English speaking students democracy in action, the inauguration of a new president, when I felt slapped in the face from Donald Trump who said, An education system flush with cash but which leaves our young and beautiful students deprived of all knowledge.

As he seems to do with so many issues, Trump took the low road with a cliched type of sentence that connects extremes  lots of money with nothing to show for it  that reflects his deprivation of knowledge about education.

Its one thing when the public makes comments about schools without researching the facts. It is quite another when the man holding the highest office in the nation makes such a remark, then appoints a person to head the department of education who may actually know a little less than he does about schools.

Education Secretary nominee Betsy DeVos has never attended a public school, never taught school and it is doubtful that her children attended a public school either.

DeVos is a billionaire, Forbes estimating her familys wealth at $5 billion. And she and her husband, son of Amways co-founder, arent interested in making schools better, but in promoting school vouchers which takes money away from public schools and gives it to parents to spend on charter, private or religious schools.

In other words, taxpayer dollars end up funding private companies and religious organizations. That runs counter to the separation-of-church-and-state edict of this country.

Yet Trump is entrusting her with the highest position in education to do whats best for Americas public schools. Does that make sense?

At her confirmation hearing, she exhibited, to borrow Trumps language, a deprivation of knowledge about the federal law that funds special education which has been on the books for nearly three decades. She also could not explain the difference between the terms proficiency and growth assessment, a distinction even an average-skilled teacher can clarify.

DeVos also argued against gun-free school zones, saying that some schools like those near Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming should be able to arm themselves especially to protect from potential grizzlies.

Thus far, there have never been reports of grizzly bears attacking school children. Besides, most experts agree that bear repellent is more effective than firearms.

I have long felt it inherently wrong for people who lack teaching experience to hold powerful positions in education, telling teachers how to teach. Unfortunately, DeVos has company.

Since the Department of Education was created in 1979, there have been 10 secretaries.

Only Terrel Bell, Rod Paige and John King Jr. were public-school teachers before serving their post. That means 70% of the U.S. Secretaries of Education had no first-hand experience in public schools, the institution for which they were setting policy and implementing mandates.

Since Trump thrives on having the biggest, the best, the largest, he has succeeded with DeVos in appointing the most unqualified individual as education secretary.

In fact, she is the anti-education secretary.

As Stephen Henderson wrote in the Detroit Free Press, Shes not an expert in pedagogy or curriculum or school governance.

Until her nomination, she was chairman of the American Federation for Children, a pro-school choice advocacy group whose website refers to DeVos as a national education reform pioneer.

In a speech given at the South by Southwest education conference in 2015, DeVos listed government really sucks as an inconvenient truth about public education. Nice language coming from the soon-to-be top educator in the land.

Some senators requested a second hearing on DeVos, but the request was turned down.

Her confirmation is expected to happen this Tuesday. If only that were fake news.

--

BRIAN CROSBY is a teacher in the Glendale Unified School District and the author of Smart Kids, Bad Schools and The $100,000 Teacher. He can be reached at briancrosby.org.
Two explosive-laden cars plowed into a crowded morning market in Urumqi on Thursday, leaving 31 people dead and 94 injured in the deadliest in a spate of terrorist attacks in China.

The attack took place about 8 a.m. outside the Peoples Park, which was crowded with senior citizens who had just finished their morning exercises and were eating breakfast at the market.

State news media said the vehicles crashed through police security fences and plowed into the crowds while the occupants tossed explosives through the windows. One of the vehicles exploded.

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Authorities did not comment on the ethnicity of the attackers, although witnesses suggested they were Uighurs, a Turkic-speaking, Muslim population that used to be the majority in Xinjang, Chinas northwestern-most region.

Two 4500s [Toyota Land Cruisers] with little flags in the Uighur language just drove past me hitting anyone in their way. And then there were a chain of explosions, wrote Zhang Xiaoyu, general manager of a news portal in Urumqi. The post was later deleted by censors.

The scene is unbearable. There are many people dead, wrote one witness on the Internet, who posted photographs of the scene.

From the high initial death toll, it looks as though the attack would prove even deadlier than a March 1 knife attack at the Kunming railroad station in which 33 died, one of the worst such incidents in recent memory.

I saw flames and heavy smoke as vehicles and goods were on fire while vendors escaped leaving their goods behind, another witness wrote online. He said he was less than 100 yards from the scene.

Photographs showed vendors lying bloodied on the pavements amid overturned tables of bananas and potatoes. An elderly woman with blood streaming from her forehead sat on the pavement looking over a young woman lying prone on the street.

The attacks came amid a spate of bombings and knifings attributed to Uighur separatists, who complain about Chinese restrictions on the Uighurs religion, language and freedom of movement.

During a visit last month to the region by President Xi Jinping, the Urumqi train station was attacked by knife- and bomb-wielding assailants. Three people died. An unverified claim of responsibility for the attack was released shortly afterward by the Turkestan Islamic Party, a shadowy separatist group that operates out of Pakistan and uses the name East Turkestan to refer to Xinjiang.

The Lanzhou-based Central Asia Studies Institute says more than 170 people have died in China since the beginning of 2013 as a result of Uighur separatist attacks.

Why dont you let us have a stable life? East Turkestan separatists get out of my hometown! one microblogger wrote on Weibo after Thursdays attack.

Most victims are elderly. Lunatics! Animals! another wrote.

Urumqi was also the scene of ethnic riots in 2009 that left nearly 200 people dead, most of them Han, the ethnic majority in China.
Cairo airport officials say seven U.S.-bound migrants  six from Iraq and one from Yemen  have been prevented from boarding an EgyptAir flight to New Yorks JFK airport.

The officials said the action Saturday by the airport was the first since President Donald Trump imposed a three-month ban on refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries: Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen.

The officials said the seven migrants, escorted by officials from the U.N. refugee agency, were stopped from boarding the plane after authorities at Cairo airport contacted their counterparts in JFK airport.

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The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to brief the media.

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Hours of interviews, months of waiting: they were a small price to pay for Syrians, Iranians and others hoping the U.S. would be their new home.

President Trump appeared to end those hopes Friday with an executive order that was expected to bar refugees from entering the United States, including citizens of several Muslim-majority nations.

For Syrians attempting to flee the nearly six-year-old civil war in their country, Trumps policy, based on a draft of the order, would indefinitely suspend their chances of finding refuge in the U.S., a country that many blame for failing to stop the conflict.

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For citizens of countries including Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen  whose visa applications would be blocked until a new extreme vetting procedure is put in place  the policy would separate families, keep parents from attending their childrens weddings and perhaps make it tougher for green-card holders to come home to the U.S.

Why is Trump victimizing Iranians as people? asked a 45-year-old engineer in Tehran, who asked that his name be withheld because he did not want to run afoul of U.S. authorities.

Even before Trump signed the executive order Friday afternoon, families in the affected countries reacted to reports about a draft of the policy obtained by the Los Angeles Times and other news organizations.

The Iranian engineer and his wife had traveled to Cyprus to apply for asylum in the U.S., because Iran and the U.S. have not had diplomatic relations since 1979. The couples 18-year-old daughter is autistic, he said, and refuses to wear a headscarf, which has gotten her arrested by Irans moral police.

The education and medical care of an autistic child is breaking me financially, he said. I hoped that in America we could afford to get her better care and schooling.

Syrians who were in the middle of a lengthy, difficult process to apply for asylum in the U.S. suddenly found their petitions stuck in limbo, with no word as to whether their scheduled interviews would take place.

Abdul Jabbar Yousef, a 33-year old native of Homs, Syria, who is applying for asylum in the U.S., had gone through two interviews over the past year but was unsure if his third interview, scheduled for two weeks from now, was still on. The father of three left Homs in late 2012 and settled in Jordan, before migration officials contacted him and asked if he wanted to go to the U.S.

This week he called the International Organization for Migration, which processes asylum cases, but officers there said they had heard nothing.

We asked if they could switch our case to another country, and they said it was unlikely, Yousef said.

For Abdul Salam Hussein, 21, going to America meant a chance to complete his studies.

His family had applied for asylum in the U.S. two years ago, after they fled the northern Syrian city of Aleppo in early 2014. His parents, along with most of his younger brothers and sisters, had already been granted asylum, but Hussein was forced to apply separately when he turned 21.

He hoped to become a journalist and prepared for the TOEFL, an English proficiency test foreign students must take to apply for U.S. universities. He had also picked up some Turkish and German living in the city of Bursa, roughly 60 miles south of Istanbul.

My older brother was a geography teacher in Syria, but now hes working in a garment factory.  Its not right. Thats why we wanted to go to America, he said in a phone interview this week.

With prospects of getting refuge in America dimming, Hussein wondered whether he should have risked his life to join the throngs of Syrians who have fled the country by sea.

Weve wasted two years if this happens, he said. I could have gone to Europe in the boat. I have friends of mine who applied to Canada, and they are there now. Im still in Turkey.

Yet he remained sanguine.

We learned from the war not to regret anything, he said. What can I do? Sit down and cry? If they dont [let me into the U.S.] then Ill try somewhere else.

Jamal Abdi, policy director for the National Iranian American Council, an advocacy group based in Washington, said the order had been generating insecurity and uncertainty.

Were already inundated with calls and emails from people about travel plans theyre putting on hold, spouses and family members who are currently traveling and not able to come back to the U.S., a large Iranian student population who are at international conferences and potentially stuck in limbo, Abdi said.

The language in the executive order was so broad, Abdi said, that it was not immediately clear whether green-card holders  who have undergone strict vetting to become permanent U.S. residents  would be allowed to come back to the United States if they were currently overseas.

Simindokht Shirvani, a green-card holder from Iran who lives in Southern California, has been with her pregnant daughter in Iran for the past month and is unsure whether she will be allowed to return to the U.S.

Shirvani, a member of the Bahai religious minority that has complained of widespread discrimination in Iran, said she was shocked at the news. She hoped Trumps policy would make an exception for her faith, as reports suggested that religious minorities in the majority-Muslim countries would be exempted from the ban.

But I am worried about my fellow countrymen and women who are Muslims and may not be admitted to U.S. soil even with a green card, said Shirvani, a 65-year-old widow. It is not fair.

Hadi Kargar, a retired Iranian education ministry employee in Tehran, and his wife were hoping in February to visit their daughter in Boston, where she is earning a masters degree focusing on human rights.

Two years ago they obtained a U.S. visa from the U.S. consulate in Dubai. They have an appointment there scheduled for next week, but after hearing reports that U.S. authorities have suspended visa interviews for Iranians, they have no idea whether to spend the more than $1,000 it will cost to get to Dubai.

We do not know what the answer of the U.S. will be  it is less than 10 days from now, said Kargar, 60. Hearing the news my wife got so worried that she is sick now. We dont want to migrate to America  we just want to see our daughter.

Foreign students in the U.S. were anticipating being separated from loved ones.

At a pro-immigrant demonstration in New York this week, Saeed Vasebi, a 28-year-old doctoral student from northwestern Iran, said he was unsure whether he could return home this summer to visit his family and girlfriend and still be allowed to come back and complete his degree in renewable energy.

If I leave this country, I cannot get back and I cannot finish my PhD, said Vasebi, who held a placard that read, We are students, not terrorists.

I dont know that I can ask my girlfriend to wait four more years for me. We were planning to get married. I can apply for a new visa in Iran. I can ask her to apply for a visa. But it is not a sure thing.

Some institutions were already taking action before Trump signed the order. At a major teaching hospital in Ohio, one official said he had sent instructions to administrators telling them to cancel offers of residency to medical students from some countries.

We are literally going to look at Country of origin and remove the applicant based on [that], said the official, who did not want to be named criticizing the policy. Cant get more racist than that.

Special correspondents Mostaghim reported from Tehran and Bulos from Amman, Jordan, and staff writer Bengali from Mumbai, India. Staff writer Barbara Demick in New York contributed to this report.

shashank.bengali@latimes.com

Follow @SBengali on Twitter for more news from South Asia
Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) have issued a formal statement on Monday to identify three attackers it says were responsible for deadly raid in Burkina Faso, West Africa. The attack in Burkina Faso's capital Ouagadougou on Friday last week left 29 people dead and 55 injured.

In the statement, AQIM identified the three attackers as Al Battar Al Ansari, Abu Muhammad Al Buqali Al Ansari and Ahmed Al Fulani Al Ansari, according to Reuters. AQIM said in the statement that it called the attack a "drop in the sea of global jihad".

Fighters from a militant group affiliated to Al Qaeda attacked the Capuccino restaurant and the Splendid Hotel on Friday night. The gunmen were taking advantage of fragile and weak states to hit western targets.

According to Quartz, the attack in Burkina Faso is the second time in a couple months that militants launched an assault directed at an establishment popular with foreigners. Another attack occured in neighboring Mali in November 2015. Gunmen stormed the Radisson Hotel in Bamako, killed 21 people and took 170 people hostage with many of whom westeners.

In both Mali and Burkina Faso cases, the militant group Al Qaeda and the Islamic Maghreb claimed responsibility.

In Monday statement, Al Qaeda included the picture of the three attackers who are responsible in Burkina Faso, carrying guns. Two of them were black, and another might be from Arab or Tuareg group.

Burkina Faso officials said military forces killed the three attackers in the Splendid Hotel and one another in a neighboring hotel during the siege that was ended on last Saturday.

Another attack also occured in northern Burkina Faso over the weekend. Unknown assailants abducted an elderly Australian doctor and his wife near the Malian border. French ambassador to Burkina faso, Gilles Thibault, told journalists that he believed the two attacks on the same day were linked in some way.

According to Chicago Tribune, the country's capital tightened its security on Monday as businesses and banks reopened. Burkina Faso also announced a joint effort with neighboring Mali in the fight against jihadi elements in the West African region.

Burkina Faso's security minister, Simon Compaore, confirmed on Sunday 32 people including three jihadist were dead in the assault. The victims include a Ukrainian woman along with her 9 year old son, six Canadians, seven Burkina Faso citizens, two Swiss, two French, and one each from the U.S., the Netherlands, Portugal and Libya. Other bodies were still being identified.
Experiential learning: Lehigh Engineering's fabled undergraduate program has been all about it since the very beginning. Here, students discover their passions, make real impact, and evolve into the engineers they aspire to be. Our faculty specializes in providing meaningful opportunities for talented young minds to engage in the lab, the workplace, and the community, here in the beautiful Lehigh Valley and all around the world. These are a few examplesare you next?
UPDATE: Lehigh Valley congressman on Trump's order: 'This is ridiculous'

Two Syrian families with connections to the Lehigh Valley were turned away Saturday morning at Philadelphia International Airport and sent on an 18-hour flight back to Qatar, where they had just arrived from, according to a report from NBC 10.

Joseph Assali, a relative in Allentown, told the news station that the families -- made up of two brothers, their wives and two children -- were Christian and had obtained visas and green cards months ago, with plans to obtain American citizenship.

They reportedly arrived in Philadelphia at 7:25 a.m. and were deported three hours later by President Donald Trump's executive order signed Friday that restricts travel from seven Muslim countries and halted a Syrian refugee program. The suspension is intended to provide time to review how refugees are vetted before they are allowed to resettle in the United States.

"This is like a nightmare come true," Assali told NBC 10.

Bethany Christian Services, a refugee resettlement program in Allentown, has brought in 131 people, regional director Mark Unger told lehighvalleylive.com. He warned that Trump's executive order would be "devastating" for those waiting to enter the country, most of whom are families.

"The reality is about 70 percent of the refugees coming in are women and children," Unger said. A four-month delay, as ordered, could leave some hopefuls with expired health certificates and visas once refugees are accepted once more, he said.

Steve Novak may be reached at snovak@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @type2supernovak and Facebook. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.
The administrator of a refugee resettlement program in Allentown predicts dire consequences under President Donald Trump's executive orders signed Friday.

Mark Unger is Eastern regional director for Bethany Christian Services, which has been working to resettle international refugees in the United States.

The nonprofit took over the effort in Allentown last May from Lutheran Christian and Family Service, which terminated its federal contract due to rising costs.

Since then, Bethany Christian Services has welcomed 131 people, mostly from Eritrea in Africa, said Unger, who works out of Lancaster.

"We've had folks from Congo, Iran and Sudan and from Syria, as well," he said, adding that most are families. "The reality is about 70 percent of the refugees coming in are women and children."

Among provisions of Trump's executive order on immigration is a cap on refugees to the United States of 50,000, down from 110,000 set by former President Barack Obama. That's through the end of the fiscal year Sept. 30, Unger said, and the U.S. since last Oct. 1 has already accepted 35,000 refugees.

"That would be devastating for a lot of folks" awaiting entry as refugees, Unger said.

The president also ordered a four-month suspension to America's refugee program. The suspension is intended to provide time to review how refugees are vetted before they are allowed to resettle in the United States.

Trump's order directs the State Department to stop issuing visas to Syrian nationals and halts the processing of Syrian refugees. That will remain in effect until Trump determines that sufficient security changes are made to ensure that would-be terrorists can't exploit weaknesses in the current vetting system.

Beyond Syria, Trump's executive order suspends all immigration from countries with terrorism concerns for 90 days. The State Department said the three-month ban in the directive also applies to Iraq, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen in addition to Syria -- all Muslim-majority nations.

"I'm establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America. We don't want 'em here," Trump declared. "We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas. We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people."

Bethany Christian Services runs a refugee resettlement program inside Alliance Hall at West Chew and North Sixth streets in Allentown, seen Friday, Jan. 27, 2017. (Kurt Bresswein | For lehighvalleylive.com)

Unger said he understands Trump's effort to protect American citizens, but said Friday's order could mean major setbacks for refugees already in the pipeline. A four-month delay, for example, could leave some hopefuls with expired health certificates and visas once refugees are accepted once more.

"That would maybe cost them two years of their lives before they were able to come into this country," Unger said.

Bethany Christian Services may have to lay off members of its staff of about seven or eight in Allentown, some of whom are refugees themselves. And without families to serve, it may have to close down altogether during the lull, he said.

"If that 120-day halt is enacted we would certainly have to be laying off staff immediately," Unger said.

U.S. Sen. Bob Casey, D-Pa., was quick to condemn Friday's order as apparently "driven by politics and discrimination."

"This reported executive action is contrary to our values and our security," Casey stated. "If news reports are correct, it will mean turning away children fleeing barrel bombing in Syria, women and girls fleeing human rights violations in Sudan and Somalia, and brave people who risked their lives to work with our troops in Iraq.

"Preventing these vulnerable people from resettling in the U.S. as refugees does nothing to make our nation safer. Further, lowering the level of overall resettlement will make it harder on our allies who are already absorbing the bulk of the refugees fleeing conflicts around the world."

The Wall

Earlier this week, on Wednesday, Trump signed an action that would block federal grants from so-called sanctuary cities, where local police don't enforce federal immigration laws. He also moved to "identify and, to the extent permitted by law, allocate all sources of federal funds for the planning, designing, and constructing of a physical wall along the southern border," according to the text of the order.

Republican lawmakers lauded Trump's moves on immigration earlier in the week. Sanctuary cities, according to U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey, represent "a critical issue of public safety." He reintroduced earlier this month his Stop Dangerous Sanctuary Cities Act (S.87) legislation that is in line with the president's order, aimed at withholding certain federal funds from cities that forbid local law enforcement from cooperating with federal immigration officials.

"It is crucial we end dangerous sanctuary cities," Toomey, R-Pa., stated. "America has repeatedly seen the devastating effects of sanctuary city policies."

"In Philadelphia, we have seen three child molesters -- two charged and one convicted -- released onto the streets due to the city's sanctuary city policy," Toomey continued. "San Francisco's policy led to the release of an illegal immigrant--previously convicted of seven felonies and deported five times before -- who went on to murder 32-year-old Kate Steinle."

New Jersey state Rep. Mike Doherty backed both the sanctuary cities move and the effort toward building the wall along the Mexico border.

"I'm encouraged that we finally have a president who is willing to enforce the laws of our nation and work to keep our communities safe," said Doherty, a Republican whose 23rd Legislative District covers parts of Warren and Hunterdon counties. "We're either a nation of laws, or we're not. It's shocking to hear other elected officials say anything to the contrary."

Two years' vetting

Friday's executive order calling for improved vetting of refugees is unnecessary, said Unger, with Bethany Christian Services. The process already lasts up to two years before a refugee sets foot in the United States. It starts with a United Nations review, followed by a terrorist screening and involves the U.S. Department of Defense, FBI and Homeland Security, he said.

"As we tell folks, refugees that come to the United States are the most vetted individuals that enter this country," Unger said.

In the run-up to Friday's executive action, coming one week after Trump's inauguration, Unger was hearing and fearing the worst for the families his group is working to help. The order appeared to have borne out his concerns.

The focus on barring war-torn refugees hits children seeking safety, he argued.

"Anybody that needs compassion and love is your neighbor, and in the United States we have a long history of helping immigrants and refugees," he said.

Introducing refugee families to the Lehigh Valley has been going very well, Unger said. He thanked churches and other groups partnering with Bethany Christian Services for helping immigrants to find work and learn skills such as English as a second language.

He urged the local faith community and supporters to call their representatives in Congress or tweet directly to the president.

"I think people have a big opportunity to step up and say, 'No, we need our voice to be heard,'" he said. "The vast majority of these folks have nothing to do with violence."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @KurtBresswein. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.
Phillipsburg municipal building

Mold has been found at the Phillipsburg municipal building, 675 Corliss Ave., and could force the town offices to move. (Tim Wynkoop | lehighvalleylive.com file photo)

Until further notice, anyone summoned to a Phillipsburg municipal court hearing should head to Alpha, according to an alert Saturday posted on the town's website.

That came as a surprise to Phillipsburg Council President Todd Tersigni and Pohatcong Township Mayor James Kern III, who a day earlier had announced they had started their own talks for the same temporary service.

Phillipsburg Council President Todd Tersigni (lehighvalleylive.com file photo)

Either way, municipal court cannot be held in Phillipsburg until mold in the municipal building is dealt with. Town council meetings are held in the same chamber.

Saturday's announcement says Phillipsburg municipal court will be in Alpha's borough hall at 1001 East Blvd., and town council and land use board meetings will be held at the Phillipsburg Elementary School, 525 Warren Street.

Phillipsburg Mayor Stephen Ellis on Saturday said he had begun making arrangements early in the week with the Phillipsburg School District and Alpha, which has shared Phillipsburg's court for four years.

The mayor also said that Tersigni was advised of the developments. Tersigni said he was not told of any other talks going on.

Ellis said the New Jersey Administrative Office of the Courts was OK with the temporary move to Alpha. Phillipsburg did not appear on a list of relocated municipal courts, and an office spokeswoman could not be reached Saturday for confirmation.

Alpha Mayor Craig Dunwell said he met Friday with Phillipsburg court staff to review the space available in his borough. He said it was likely court would resume Feb. 8 after certain equipment needs to be installed.

In Pohatcong, Kern said the offer to host Phillipsburg's court is still on the table.

"I'm not sure what their internal discussions are over there," Kern said, "but I got a call from a neighboring town and said yeah, we'd be willing to help."

Phillipsburg Mayor Stephen Ellis (Courtesy photo | For lehighvalleylive.com)

Ellis acknowledged that the decision of where to host town council meetings does fall to Tersigni, the council president. Tersigni said the Phillipsburg Senior Center is willing to host meetings, too.

A recently completed environmental analysis found mold in the Phillipsburg municipal building, 675 Corliss Ave., that could pose a risk to anyone with respiratory issues or other ailments, like allergies or lung disease, the town said in a news release Wednesday. The release advised that anyone with such conditions should "exercise judgement when entering the building."

Mold was reportedly found in the court/council chambers on the second floor and in the basement. Most of the town offices are on the building's first floor.

Steve Novak may be reached at snovak@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @type2supernovak and Facebook. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.
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We might have hoped that someone sensible would have managed to talk Donald Trump out of actually banning Muslims from the US. After all, even one of the more hawkish Republicans, George HW Bushs Defence Secretary and Ws Vice President Dick Cheney had condemned it previously. Even Trumps Vice President was against it before he was for it. He doesnt seem to listen to reason, though, so todays news, however disappointing, is not surprising.

What we should expect, though, is for our own Government to condemn something so blatantly discriminatory, e especially when it affects British citizens. One example on tonights news was Mo Farah who holds dual nationality with Somalia but who trains in Oregon.

Refusing entry to people if you have evidence that they are actually a threat is one thing, refusing entry to a group of people just because they follow a particular religion or come from a particular country is beyond the pale.

But Theresa May didnt condemn Trump. She just washed her hands of the whole thing, saying it was up to the Americans what they did.

That wasnt good enough for Tim Farron:

Theresa May has failed to criticise President Trump for turning away and banning refugees whose only crime is to believe in a different religion. Not only is this shocking even by her standards, it cannot be allowed to stand. The Presidents actions have horrified the world, and this is a moment when she has to show what side she is on. Perhaps she feels in a weak position on Syrian refugees because her own record on this is so lamentable. At the press conference she contrived to make the Turkish government look liberal. They said it was wrong to build walls. Rather than fighting to build a world that is open, tolerant and united, Theresa May is dividing the world in a very dangerous way. If Theresa May would stay in the Single Market none of this humiliation would be necessary.

He added that the Foreign Office should issue urgent advice to British citizens who might be affected by the ban:

No doubt hell get the chance to elaborate on these comments on the Andrew Marr Show tomorrow.

* Caron Lindsay is Editor of Liberal Democrat Voice and blogs at Caron's Musings
The Liberal Democrats have set up a branch in France. Until now, members in France had been part of the Brussels and Europe branch, but, as an article in the English language French newspaper Connexions shows, new member Paul Fisher has created a French branch which has its inaugural meeting this week. He told the paper:

We want to ensure that the voice of British citizens living in France is heard back home, Mr Fisher said. The branch includes among its aims campaigning to support and enhance the rights of Britons in France and supporting and campaigning for UK Liberal Democrat MPs and prospective MPs at election times who specifically and publically commit to staying in the EU. Mr Fisher said travelling the world in the navy taught him people are people and we have to live in a global village together and he believes in liberte, egalite, fraternite.

Bonne chance to our colleagues across the Channel.
Fresh from her meeting in Washington with a man who has extolled the effectiveness of torture, admitted sexually assaulting women and who thinks building walls between nations is a good idea, our Prime Minister heads today to meet the leader of a so-called democracy where human rights mean nothing and journalists are imprisoned.

Sarah Olney has written a blistering article in the Guardian, attacking the PM for betraying our liberal values instead of safeguarding our trading relationship with the democracies on our doorstep.

This tawdry tour shames Britain. This is a defining period on the international stage and we must consider to what extent this new course is safeguarding both our interests and values around the world. In an age of alternative facts, there is no doubt about the realities of the Erdogan regime. Even before last Julys failed coup, Erdogan had begun systematically dismantling Turkeys democratic institutions. Since the coup, he has embraced full-frontal authoritarianism. He is not only locking up journalists, but teachers, professors and policemen  all without due process. Not quite the outfit youd have in mind for a regime described yesterday as an indispensable partner by Theresa May. >Indeed, turn the clock back eight months and our now foreign secretary was slating the Turkish president. Yet Boris Johnson has fallen unusually silent  refusing to call Erdogan out on his shocking crimes. There is a pattern here: ministers pursuing business deals on the international stage at odds with Britains best traditions and values. The Tories are ignoring breaches of international humanitarian law in Yemen for an arms and trade deal with Saudi Arabia. May is cosying up to an American president who not so long ago she was criticising for his anti-Muslim diatribes. Far from defending liberal values, the Conservatives are happy to sell them to the highest bidder, or indeed any bidder.

Her analysis of the government is spot on.

This is not a strong, confident government, it is a shifty, grubby regime, tin-eared to the views of our friends and brainwashed by the Ukip world view. Is this really what people imagined of life outside the EU? Whether you were leave or remain, it should be deeply troubling to see ministers pursue a strategy both damaging to our economic interests and undermining of our best and most cherished values. That is why Liberal Democrats will not simply fall behind the government in pursuing a hard Brexit. Unlike Labour, we will vote against article 50 if the people are not given a say on the final deal. Nor will we turn our backs on our friends in Europe at the expense of strongmen with weak principles around the world.

She concludes with a call for all those who believe in liberal, progressive values to rally to protect them.

You can read her whole article here.

* Newshound: bringing you the best Lib Dem commentary in print, on air or online.
Now, I dont want to launch into a political rant but it often appears that politicians are only concerned with winning the popular support of the electorate. They avoid confronting the difficult issues and students of BBC sitcoms know that the words most likely to strike fear into the heart of Jim Hacker MP, were:   a very brave decision minister.

In some ways, this is not necessarily a bad thing. It broadly supports continuity and stability, avoiding the potential calamity of politicians who pursue their own passing whims with little regard to the hopes and aspirations of the voting public. However, effective democracy does presume that people understand the implications of the policies that their governments pursue. A successful society needs an electorate that is informed, critical and motivated to participate in the political process.

The political process works less well when a country is led by popularist politicians offering sound-bite policies to an electorate that is poorly informed. And no, this is not a rant about Brexit or political developments in America. This is a warning that all democracies have this flaw and we ignore it at our peril.

Now, ask yourself how well informed the general electorate is about global warming. For example, do people believe that global warming is largely caused by human activity? Yes, probably. Do people believe that the current trajectory of climate change could pass a tipping point within fifteen years, beyond which, the impact of climate change could become irreversible? Probably not, because if they did, then we would expect them to be demanding governments do something about it.

There are three more questions we should ask ourselves: Could global warming cause the collapse of human civilization? If yes, can it be avoided? And finally, the tricky one, do we have confidence that our political leaders will take the brave decisions needed to avert catastrophe? The answers to these questions are: Yes. Maybe. Only if the electorate understand the issues and demand that government take action.

Anyone who is surprised by the assertion that global temperatures could pass a tipping point within fifteen years might be interested in the following summary of data provided by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, (IPCC).

From a base point in 1870, it has been calculated that global warming will reach the 2 degree target when CO2 emissions exceed a total of 2,900 billion tonnes. Approximately half this quantity was produced during the period 1870 to 2000. In the period 2000  2015, one third of the remaining carbon budget was produced. It is projected that the remaining volumes will be produced during the period 2015  2030.

Obviously, if CO2 emissions increase faster than projected, (e.g. due to a relaxation of environmental regulations) or the estimated 2 degree Celsius figure was set optimistically high, then the tipping point will be reached sooner.

To put this article into its simplest form: Climate change is a reality, the major causes are man-made and preventing a global catastrophe is not simply a technological problem but a social engagement problem. Governments urgently need to initiate a process of participative change, enabling the electorate to understand the issues, support the transition to a low carbon future and become advocates for change. Unfortunately, many governments are either ignoring the issue  or actively promoting policies that deny climate change. Neither of these two options are sustainable political strategies.

For over twenty years the UN has been convening the Conference of Parties (COP) where leaders from across the world meet to decide what they are going to do about climate change. Just over a year ago, COP 21 in Paris had a historical breakthrough, with each nation offering a limit to their green house gas emissions. Just a couple of problems: a). The limits were voluntary. b). The sum total of their voluntary emission targets is projected to push up global temperatures by 3  4 degrees Centigrade. (The limit, beyond which global warming will have catastrophic consequences is 2 degrees Centigrade  although some scientists believe that even this target has been set too high).

So, here we are in 2017. The UN has overseen twenty years of talks, prevarication and empty promises until finally we are offered the breakthrough of a voluntary target that is guaranteed to exceed the critical threshold. Unfortunately, it is unlikely that even these inadequate targets will be met, primarily because most governments are reluctant to implement the necessary action to reduce carbon emissions as this would risk upsetting various vested interests.

Clearly, low carbon strategies require some brave decisions but unless we take urgent action, we will soon pass the tipping point, our economies will collapse and the fabric of society will break down. Ignoring the problem is not an acceptable option. Achieving a transition to a low carbon society should be the paramount objective for every government.

So how do we break this apparent logjam of an electorate that is kept in the dark by established politicians incapable of taking brave decisions? One hopeful sign might be a political party that is ready to commit to policies that underpin the transition to a low carbon economy. It would need to be a political party that is not too closely aligned with vested interests and a political party that is prepared to challenge the status quo.

The good news is that the Liberal Democrats are launching their strategy for Zero Carbon Britain. The debate needs to start within our party so that we all understand the issues and become advocates in the wider community. We need to build a groundswell of informed opinion that puts pressure on the current government to acknowledge the scale of the challenge that faces us. Preventing further increases in global temperatures is not primarily a technical problem  we have the capability to dramatically cut carbon emissions  it is a social engagement problem. Our task now is to build the capability to engage the electorate in a complex debate that touches on all aspects of our society, our values and our relationship with the natural environment.

Sometimes it might feel as though the situation is overwhelming but if you need cheering up, just remember, Brexit is a vanity project compared to the need to transition to a low carbon society  but dont get me started on a political rant.

* Richard Joy is a member of Green Liberal Democrats
9 Tips for Coping When Someones Words Insult Your Body

Weve been conditioned to judge other peoples bodies. Heres how to cope when you feel like someone is judging yours.
HIGH-LEVEL talks have taken place between Independent councillor Emmett OBrien and senior members of Fianna Fail in relation to the Pallaskenry mans return to the party fold, the Limerick Leader can reveal.

Cllr OBrien has reportedly had discussions with the highest level in Fianna Fail after his showing in last years General Election, and a prodigal son moment may be on the cards under certain terms, according to political sources.

The meetings about OBriens political future indicate that he may still have his sights set on Dail Eireann. Late last year, Micheal Martin confirmed that Fianna Fail would run two County Limerick candidates in the next election - whenever it happens.

The councillor and barrister, who left Fianna Fail after failing to secure the nomination for the local elections in 2014, missed out on the third seat in the General Election to Fine Gael TD Patrick ODonovan  who received almost 10,300 votes in total  but came close with almost 9,500 votes by the final count.

Speaking to the Limerick Leader, Mr OBrien would not confirm the reports, saying that they were just rumours.

However, sources confirmed that the talks did indeed take place before Christmas.

A number of party executive members, Fianna Fail TDs and local party members have also approached Mr OBrien since his departure from the party.

My former membership of Fianna Fail is well-known and it still informs a great deal of how I think we should go about improving our Limerick communities, said the councillor.

One year on from General Election 2016 and subject to the right calibre candidate, the votes show that Fianna Fail have a reasonable prospect of two quotas in the county, which was the tradition, added Cllr OBrien.

Clearly, that must be a pressing worry for the Fine Gael TD who took the last seat, he said, before criticising rival party Fine Gael.

Their problem is that this dull and passive Government is crippled with indecision, and fresh disasters unfold in slow motion in front of our eyes almost daily, said the independent councillor.

This Fine Gael-led government seems to know what to do but they just cant do it, and the people of Limerick see through it, he said.

Despite leaving Fianna Fail amid controversy about the selection process of council candidates, Cllr OBriens political alignment is still close to that of the party.

Only once in history has a TD been elected who is neither Fine Gael or Fianna Fail in the county constituency.

Figures released by the Standards in Public Office Commission (SIPO) show that Emmett OBrien spent a total of 28,200.11 on his campaign, the highest spend of any unsuccessful candidate in Limerick.

When contacted by the Limerick Leader, Patrickswell Fianna Fail TD Niall Collins said that he has not heard anything about Mr OBriens meetings with members of Fianna Fail.
A NEW working group of councillors is to examine and make recommendations on a new model for the best delivery of arts and culture in Limerick, city and county.

Councillors at Mondays plenary meeting of Limerick City and County Council agreed to set up an 11-person committee from across the political spectrum which will report back to the full council at a later date.

This committee will look at and come up with recommendations for the model they want to put in place to advance culture and arts in Limerick and to oversee the distribution of funding.

But Mondays meeting also approved a visit by councillors to Glasgow as part of a fact-finding mission to look at various models of delivery. And the Limerick Leader understands that other cities which have used arts and culture in a positive way to regenerate their communities will also be visited.

So far, the members of the 11-person working group are: Michael Collins, Gerry ODea and Francis Foley from Fianna Fail; Michael Sheahan, Jerome Scanlan and Elenora Hogan from Fine Gael; Seighin OCeallaigh and Lisa Marie Sheehy from Sinn Fein; Cian Prendiville from the Anti-Austerity Alliance.

There will also be a representative from Labour on the committee and one Independent councillor.

The issue of looking at a new model to advance the development of arts and culture was forest raised last November by Cllr James Collins FF.

It flowed, he said, from the decision to allocate 3m to the arts in the councils 2017 budget along with an additional 230,000 for tourism and festivals from the Metropolitan Budget.

While councillors were happy to approve the arts money in the budget, Cllr Collins explained at the time, they wanted a different model for the distribution of that money.

We wanted it to be inclusive and to involve local representatives as well as representatives from the arts and culture community, he said. Councillors also wanted an element of autonomy, he added. We want to make sure the money is well spent.

And he proposed that a committee would be set up to look at and come up with recommendations for a new model to be put in place to advance culture and arts in Limerick and to oversee the distribution of funding.

It was important, Cllr Collins said, that the model adopted be inclusive, accountable and has real autonomy.

Supporting Cllr Collins motion, Cllr Malachy McCreesh SF said the single biggest thing was that all groups work together.

In his contribution to the debate, Cllr Joe Leddin said that we are at an exciting time in the whole area of arts.

But he stressed that whatever model was chosen, it needed to be representative of all the arts.
The giant magnetic field surrounding Earth changes shape due to the planet's north and south magnetic poles as well as the solar wind (the steady stream of particles coming from the sun).

This article was originally published at The Conversation. The publication contributed the article to Live Science's Expert Voices: Op-Ed & Insights.

The Earth's magnetic field surrounds our planet like an invisible force field  protecting life from harmful solar radiation by deflecting charged particles away. Far from being constant, this field is continuously changing. Indeed, our planet's history includes at least several hundred global magnetic reversals, where north and south magnetic poles swap places. So when's the next one happening and how will it affect life on Earth?

During a reversal the magnetic field won't be zero, but will assume a weaker and more complex form. It may fall to 10 percent of the present-day strength and have magnetic poles at the equator or even the simultaneous existence of multiple "north" and "south" magnetic poles.

Geomagnetic reversals occur a few times every million years on average. However, the interval between reversals is very irregular and can range up to tens of millions of years.

There can also be temporary and incomplete reversals, known as events and excursions, in which the magnetic poles move away from the geographic poles  perhaps even crossing the equator  before returning back to their original locations. The last full reversal, the Brunhes-Matuyama, occurred around 780,000 years ago. A temporary reversal, the Laschamp event (opens in new tab), occurred around 41,000 years ago. It lasted less than 1,000 years with the actual change of polarity lasting around 250 years.

Power cut or mass extinction?

The alteration in the magnetic field during a reversal will weaken its shielding effect, allowing heightened levels of radiation on and above the Earth's surface. Were this to happen today, the increase in charged particles reaching the Earth would result in increased risks for satellites, aviation, and ground-based electrical infrastructure. Geomagnetic storms, driven by the interaction of anomalously large eruptions of solar energy with our magnetic field, give us a foretaste of what we can expect with a weakened magnetic shield.

In 2003, the so-called Halloween storm caused local electricity-grid blackouts in Sweden, required the rerouting of flights to avoid communication blackout and radiation risk, and disrupted satellites and communication systems. But this storm was minor in comparison with other storms of the recent past, such as the 1859 Carrington event, which caused aurorae as far south as the Caribbean.

The impact of a major storm on today's electronic infrastructure is not fully known. Of course any time spent without electricity, heating, air conditioning, GPS or internet would have a major impact; widespread blackouts could result in economic disruption measuring in tens of billions of dollars a day.

In terms of life on Earth and the direct impact of a reversal on our species we cannot definitively predict what will happen as modern humans did not exist at the time of the last full reversal. Several studies have tried to link past reversals with mass extinctions  suggesting some reversals and episodes of extended volcanism could be driven by a common cause. However, there is no evidence of any impending cataclysmic volcanism and so we would only likely have to contend with the electromagnetic impact if the field does reverse relatively soon.

We do know that many animal species have some form of magnetoreception that enables them to sense the Earth's magnetic field. They may use this to assist in long-distance navigation during migration. But it is unclear what impact a reversal might have on such species. What is clear is that early humans did manage to live through the Laschamp event and life itself has survived the hundreds of full reversals evidenced in the geologic record.

Can we predict geomagnetic reversals?

The simple fact that we are "overdue" for a full reversal and the fact that the Earth's field is currently decreasing at a rate of 5 percent per century, has led to suggestions (opens in new tab) that the field may reverse within the next 2,000 years. But pinning down an exact date  at least for now  will be difficult.

The Earth's magnetic field is generated within the liquid core of our planet, by the slow churning of molten iron. Like the atmosphere and oceans, the way in which it moves is governed by the laws of physics. We should therefore be able to predict the "weather of the core" by tracking this movement, just like we can predict real weather by looking at the atmosphere and ocean. A reversal can then be likened to a particular type of storm in the core, where the dynamics  and magnetic field  go haywire (at least for a short while), before settling down again.

The difficulties of predicting the weather beyond a few days are widely known, despite us living within and directly observing the atmosphere. Yet predicting the Earth's core is a far more difficult prospect, principally because it is buried beneath 3,000 km of rock such that our observations are scant and indirect. However, we are not completely blind: we know the major composition of the material inside the core and that it is liquid. A global network of ground-based observatories and orbiting satellites also measure how the magnetic field is changing, which gives us insight into how the liquid core is moving.

The recent discovery of a jet-stream (opens in new tab) within the core highlights our evolving ingenuity and increasing ability to measure and infer the dynamics of the core. Coupled with numerical simulations and laboratory experiments to study the fluid dynamics of the planet's interior, our understanding is developing at a rapid rate. The prospect of being able to forecast the Earth's core is perhaps not too far out of reach.

Phil Livermore, Associate Professor of geophysics, University of Leeds and Jon Mound, Associate Professor of Geophysics, University of Leeds

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.
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Congressman Henry Cuellar on Friday met with Mexican leaders, senators and businessmen in Mexico City to discuss the U.S.-Mexico relations and the importance of trade between the two countries.

"During his first week on the job, President Trump has caused serious concerns for U.S.-Mexico relations with the announcement of his intent to build a giant border wall and tax all U.S. imports from Mexico," Cuellar said. "The president's idea of a wall is not only extremely costly for U.S. taxpayers, but greatly inefficient at border security.

"I believe there are more effective and efficient ways to secure our borders, such as increasing the use of technology that is currently deployed by the Department of Homeland Security, which includes unmanned aerial systems, aerostats, video surveillance systems and ground sensors; along with adding improvements to river access roads and increasing the number of Border Patrol agents on the ground."

Prominent political figures in Mexico have suggested the country expel U.S. law enforcement agents, stop detaining Central American migrants or no longer inspect northbound trucks for drug shipments. Some activist groups on Friday were calling for a boycott of American brands.

Former President Felipe Calderon said Thursday that "we have to design a policy of retaliation" for Trump's proposed plans, which include making Mexico pay for the border wall he wants to build.

"We have to put U.S. security issues under review ... including the presence of (U.S.) agents" on Mexican soil, Calderon told local news media.

On Friday afternoon, Mexican business magnate Carlos Slim called for "national unity" in the face of Trump's hostility, and said the country should have a measured response "without getting angry but without surrendering."

Slim called for a "modern, not protectionist" national program of substituting imported products, the vast majority of which come from the United States.

But he stopped short of calling for a boycott of American goods.

"I think it is an error to think about boycotting companies," Slim said. "What we should do instead is buy what is produced in Mexico."

Cuellar said Trump's proposal to tax all U.S. imports from Mexico by as much as 20 percent "would actually hurt American consumers and businesses, not Mexico."

"As the representative for our country's largest inland port, I understand just how important trade is for our local economies and for our country," he said. "Mexico is the United States' second-largest export partner and third-largest import partner, according to the International Trade Administration (ITA). The total goods traded between our countries in 2015 was more than $531 billion. It's also important to point out that Texas' largest trading partner is Mexico, and much of our economies in Texas are dependent on trade.

"I witnessed in my meetings yesterday in Mexico City that Mexicans are more united than ever and ready to negotiate on policies and trade that will benefit both countries. We must remember that Mexico is one of our closest allies and friends. I am committed to doing my part in Congress to develop effective and efficient solutions that will address border security and enhance our bilateral relationship with Mexico."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
AUSTIN, Texas (AP)  A former University of Texas student from Mexico sought in the 1983 slaying of an Austin cleaning woman surrendered to U.S authorities at the Laredo border crossing to Mexico.

Robert Van Wisse had been one of the FBI's Top 10 Most Wanted Fugitives. He was named in an arrest warrant issued in 1996, charging him with murder in the September 1983 strangling of 22-year-old Laurie Stout.
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The ongoing treatment of patients in the emergency departments of our hospitals is simply scandalous. Consultants don't want to engage, yet they are essentially running the emergency departments.

The consultants don't want to even consider working more hours, not even to the point of engaging.

If someone in a consultancy department takes issue with this statement, then let's hear from them.

Nobody has the power to tell anyone what to do, in our modern hospitals.

Nobody, apparent, is in charge, or if anyone is, their presence isn't being felt in any sphere of hospital environmental affairs.

Meanwhile the HSE has an astonishing number of managers.

What do they all do?

Since Ireland joined the EU, affairs in this country have been progressing further and further from where we as a nation, believed was right and decent.

Bit by bit we've been browbeaten into finding ourselves at a point where the HSE is overloaded with managers, so numerous that nobody can be blamed for anything.

In order to arrive at some semblance of responsibility, we have to set up an enquiry.

Since joining the EU, we've stopped entirely the practice of governments being responsible for building houses. Nowadays the government pretends to ease the strain by giving developers more and more favours to try and entice them to consider building some houses that are 'affordable'.

This, of course is fundamentally misguided.

Houses, and the cost of, are going up all the time, and we now hear phrases like "relative to the market" in an attempt to explain away the housing crisis which is going to get worse in the coming years.

Recently the banks themselves drew up a report which suggested "around 25,000 more people would lose their homes in the coming year or two". This wasn't reported to any great extent in the national media.

Since we joined Europe we've stopped reporting anything really substantive on the front pages.

Instead we've become obsessed with what some "celebrity" did, or whether or not Twink has resolved her housing troubles.

Isn't it such a shame that anyone like Twink should be forced to pay what they're due to pay, in order to keep their home??!

The people who are genuinely worrying themselves sick, are relegated to some obscure spot inside the paper, where we find occasional reports, which almost nobody reads anymore.

Why not?

Because since we joined Europe we've been browbeaten into submission, to the point where everyone says "there's nothing we can do".

Recently, the HSE has admitted in response to Freedom Of Information, that they, the HSE, have paid a total of 2.2 million in consultancy fees to MCO Projects, in 2016 alone. Interestingly, the first serious project undertaken by MCO was the Bertie bowl, another nice little government earner.
Two former Garda superintendents who previously served in Longford and Granard are heading up two major investigations this week.

The first incident took place in Ardee, Co Louth last Monday evening (January 21) and resulted in the tragic deaths of two local women in an horrific road traffic accident.

Irish Wheelchair Association and Ardee Hospice volunteer Josie Duff and her cousin, Kathy McDonald, both died after being struck by a car while crossing the Dublin-Derry road at around 6:30pm.

The driver of the car was uninjured, but gardai have since launched an appeal for witnesses to contact them.

That appeal is one which is being led by Superintendent Fergus Treanor, formerly of Longford Garda Station.

The 51-year-old left his post as Longford Garda chief last year, some 16 months after moving from the nearby Cavan/Monaghan Division.

His position was subsequently filled by Superintendent Jim Delaney back in August.

Like his Monaghan counterpart, Lucan based Superintendent Dermot Mann is well known to many in the northern end of the county.

He previously served as Granard Garda Superintendent for three years before leaving for Lucan in Dublin in March 2011.

Having fronted a number of high profile criminal investogations in the interim, Supt Mann is this week hoping to make progress in relation to Ireland's latest gangland related murder.

Thirty-six-year-old father of two, Noel Reilly died after sustaining stab wounds in a violent attack last Wednesday (January 18).

Mr Reilly was stabbed in the arm, beaten by a five-man gang and then driven over by a car in a quiet suburban estate.

Detectives are treating the murder as a gangland attack with sources pinning the murder on a major disagreement between two local crime groups.

It is also the fourth killing to have been recorded in Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald's Dublin-Mid West constituency since November.
Five insurgency groups in Syria, including Al Qaedas rebranded branch, have announced the creation of a new entity to fight Bashar al Assads regime. The five organizations that have merged are: Jabhat Fath al Sham (formerly known as Al Nusrah Front), Harakat Nur Al Din Al Zanki, Liwa Al Haqq, Ansar Al Din and Jaysh Al Sunnah.

In a statement released online, the joint venture partners say they have merged to form Hayat Tahrir al Sham, or the Assembly for Liberation of the Levant. It is led by a jihadi known as Abu Jaber (also known as Hashem al Sheikh), the former head of Ahrar al Sham, which continues to operate under its own name in Syria. A photo of Abu Jaber from his Twitter feed can be seen on the right.

Various groups tried to unite behind Abu Jabers leadership in Aleppo early last year, but it appears that effort never took off. Still, the unity initiative in Aleppo indicates that the jihadis have been pushing for Abu Jaber to serve as a possible front man for some time. Some reports have identified Abu Jaber as a former member of al Qaeda in Iraq. [See FDDs Long War Journal report, Aleppo-based rebel groups reportedly unite behind Ahrar al Shams former top leader.]

Abu Jaber quickly announced on his Twitter feed that he had resigned from Ahrar al Sham. He also said that his newly-created entity would enter into a ceasefire with other groups in northern Syria. Jabhat Fath al Sham, al Qaedas rebranded arm, had been clashing with smaller rebel organizations in recent weeks.

A new logo for Tahrir al Sham has already been created and disseminated online. It can be seen on the right.

The five organizations say they decided to unite [d]ue to what the Syrian revolution is undergoing today [with] plots that plague it and internal conflicts that threaten its presence, according to a translation of their statement published by Bilad al Sham Media, a small, pro-al Qaeda jihadi outfit. The groups say it required great effort from us in order to unite the word and the ranks.

And we call on the factions in the arena to fulfill this covenant and to join this new entity in order to unite our banners and to preserve the fruits and the jihad of this revolution, so that this may be the seed of unifying the capacities and strength of this revolution, their statement continues. The merger is intended to preserve the course of the revolution, such that its desired objectives can be reached, including most notably the overthrow of this criminal [Assad] regime.

Al Qaedas official branch in Syria was originally known as Jabhat al Nusrah (Al Nusrah Front). The groups leader, Abu Muhammad al Julani, announced that it was changing its name to Jabhat Fath al Sham (JFS) in July of 2016. Julanis message was intended, in part, to sow confusion about al Qaedas role in Syria. [See FDDs Long War Journal report, Analysis: Al Nusrah Front rebrands itself as Jabhat Fath Al Sham.]

Al Qaedas senior leaders know that their brand attracts additional, unwanted attention from Western counterterrorism forces and can also limit the amount of support their insurgents receive. During an interview that aired on Al Jazeera in 2015, Abu Jaber himself complained about Al Nusrahs overt al Qaeda role. Therefore, as part of its guerrilla warfare strategy, al Qaeda attempts to hide organizational affiliations, as well as the extent of its influence. Indeed, Al Qaeda has employed multiple names in Syria. And senior al Qaeda figures have been embedded in other groups, such as Ahrar al Sham and Jund al Aqsa, as well.

It is not clear what position Julani will hold in Tahrir al Sham. Earlier this year, US officials told FDDs Long War Journal that Julani may be appointed as the military commander of a new entity. He could also assume some other post.

Al Qaedas longtime partners in Syria

The four organizations that agreed to merge with JFS (previously Al Nusrah) have long cooperated with one another on the Syrian battlefields.

Nur Al Din Al Zanki, Liwa Al Haqq, and Jaysh Al Sunnah were all part of the Jaysh al Fath (Army of Conquest) alliance. Jaysh al Fath overran the Idlib province in early 2015 and then launched operations elsewhere, including in Aleppo in 2016.

Nur Al Din Al Zanki, which was once considered a CIA vetted group and received American-made anti-tank TOW missiles, had a strong presence in Aleppo. Zanki joined Jaysh al Fath last year. Liwa Al Haqq and Jaysh Al Sunnah both fought under the Jaysh al Fath banner. Ansar al Din, another al Qaeda-linked group, has been a reliable partner for JFS as well.

Some of Nur Al Din Al Zankis fighters reportedly decided to join still another group, Faylaq al Sham, instead of merging into Tahrir al Sham. However, Faylaq al Sham, which is Islamist, has also fought alongside Jaysh al Fath and its constituent members.

Reported infighting in northern Syria

The establishment of Tahrir al Sham comes after weeks of reported clashes and fierce disagreements between different jihadi factions and other insurgents in northern Syria. It is difficult to discern how the situation unfolded, but JFS and Ahrar al Sham have reportedly disagreed over the direction of the insurgency, leading to some clashes. The two groups have long fought side-by-side against the Assad regime and others. Indeed, Ahrar al Sham has its own links to al Qaeda and openly models itself after the Taliban.

It is unsurprising, therefore, that several other Ahrar al Sham leaders may have already defected from Ahrar al Sham, just as Abu Jaber did. According to the Al Fustaat, a jihadi Telegram channel, the purported defectors include: Abu Yusuf Muhajir (Ahrar al Shams official military spokesman), Abu Saleh Tahan (Ahrars deputy leader), and Abul-Fath al Ferghali (a scholar and former jurist). Their defections have not been confirmed yet.

Influential al Qaeda cleric from Saudi Arabia joins group

Tahrir al Sham has released a statement saying that six leading jihadi scholars have joined the newly formed group. One of them is Sheikh Abdullah Mohammed al Muhaysini, a Saudi al Qaeda cleric who was designated as a terrorist by the US government last year.

Muhaysini (seen on the right) has long advocated for rebel unity inside Syria, but claimed to be an independent ideologue. As FDDs Long War Journal first reported, however, there are numerous details in Muhaysinis biography indicating that he is really a senior al Qaeda sharia official. This assessment was confirmed by the Treasury Department when Muhaysini was designated in Nov. 2015. Treasury described Muhaysini as an accepted member of al Nusrah Fronts inner leadership circle. Still, this is the first time that Muhaysini has openly joined an organization in Syria. [See FDDs Long War Journal report, US Treasury designates Saudi jihadist cleric, three others in Syria.]

The other five senior jihadi clerics who have joined Tahrir al Sham are: Abdul Razzaq al Mahdi, Abu Harith al Masri, Abu Yusuf al Hamwi, Abu Taher al Hamwi, and Moslih al-Ulyani. All five have helped lead the jihadists cause in Syria.

Thomas Joscelyn is a Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and the Senior Editor for 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.
Its quarterly reporting season and Microsoft is winning once again. Why, their revenue is up a whopping 1 percent and many of their numbers are only down a little! Despite all the rain up there, its always blue skies in Redmond.

Writing for Ars Technica, Peter Bright gives us the good news. Microsofts 2Q17: cloud growth slows, Windows surprising, Surface resilient. (Tip o the antlers to @realworldrj.)

Resilient!

And, well, down. Surface sales were down. Um yeah.

As bad as the phone situation is

Oh, yeah, the phone situation is terrible, by the way. Whoo, boy, is it bad. Like, down 81 percent kind of bad. Yeeow. But who buys smartphones anymore anyway? And why be such a downer? Lets get to the computer thing which is great news. Because thats just down a little.

Microsofts other foray into hardware, Surface, seems to be doing rather better.

Better than terrible is better! This is true.

Revenue was down ever so slightly, falling 2 percent to $1.3 billion.

A pittance! Why, its down so little it might as well be up by a lot. Apple hasnt reported their results yet but Mac sales the previous quarter were down 6 percent which is huge and terrible while 2 percent is small and great.

Now, let us get to the excuse making.

Thats a 2 percent fall even though the Surface Pro 4 was not refreshed at all, and the Surface Book saw only a minor upgrade with the introduction of the high price Performance Base.  Microsoft did introduce one all new piece of hardware in the quarter, the Surface Studio, but again, this was a US-only release, and availability during 2016 was severely limited.

See, theyre only down because Microsoft didnt ship many new devices! Surely they cant be blamed for that! And the big new device they did ship was in short supply! So, we can all agree that none of this reflects in any way other than positively for Microsoft.

Meanwhile, Mac sales were down because everyone hates Macs? No, actually for exactly the same reason Surface sales were down: Apple didnt introduce many new devices and the big new one they did introduce late in the year was in short supply. For shame, Apple. Why cant you be more like Microsoft?

After reading story after story about how Apple badly neglected the Mac last year (and, to be fair, the Macalope agrees that they did), its a little jarring to see Microsoft completely get a pass for doing slightly better. There is a very real difference in how Apple is covered and how Microsoft is covered and the Surface is graded on a curve.

(CORRECTION: An earlier version of this piece incorrectly identified the source as The Verge instead of Ars Technica. The Macalope regrets the error. Seriously, its annoying to make a stupid mistake.)
Thiruvananthapuram: Speaking to a private channel, Law Academy Principal Dr.Lekshmi Nair said that she is a strong woman not afraid to pursue legal action, if need be.

She also made it clear that she has no plans to resign from the post of principal and said that she will do so only if her father, who is the Director of the Academy, asks her to do so.

She also added she believes in goodness and that only 250 students are involved in the current protests going on in the Academy.
MARIE FRANCE ASIA: WHAT DOES THE YEAR OF THE ROOSTER SIGNIFY?

2017 is the Year of the Fire Rooster. The Rooster is metal element and the fire element sits above. This is a controlling influence, as the fire melts the metal. It also represents the energy of the heaven crushing to the earth position. This indicates imbalance and disharmony. The elements are also yin, which makes this metal pliable. The elements of metal and fire can represent, amongst other things, firearms. So, there is the potential for shootings, explosions and terrorist attacks again in 2017. Saying that, this year should be a little calmer than 2016, as the energy of 2016 was pure yang, whereas the energy of 2017 is yin and hence a little bit slower. Fire and metal are also elements that can relate to the stock market and investments. The fire melting the metal can indicate fluctuations and a certain unpredictability around the markets. So, its best to spread the risk in 2017.

MFA: ANY SPECIFIC AREA THAT THIS YEAR IS GOOD/ NOT SO GOOD FOR?

The 5 Yellow Star is in the South this year, so take care of the South position. Try to keep it quiet and inactive. There can be a lot of problems and sickness in Southern countries, such as Africa in 2017. The 2 Black Sickness Star flies into the North-West position. The 2 star is more controlled in this direction, but it can still cause problems, particularly for women, relating to the stomach or female problems. The Centre has good energy this year, making the centre position of your home, town or city good. The SE is also auspicious this year for people wanting to start a family.

MFA: WHAT SHOULD BE TAKEN ADVANTAGE OF/ BE WARY OF THIS YEAR?

The Rooster is a sign of commerce. The direction of the Rooster is in the West, which relates to metal  commerce and trade. But, being a yin sign it can also be connected to womens interests, such as fashion or womens magazines. So, these areas can see a boost this year. The Rooster also relates to leisure activities, such as music, fine arts and general entertaining, so all these areas are likely to flourish in 2017.

MFA: WHICH ZODIAC ANIMALS ARE COMPATIBLE WITH THE ROOSTER AND HOW WILL THAT AFFECT THE YEAR?

The compatible zodiac animals are the Dragon, Snake and Ox. This is a particularly good year for the Dragon. The Dragon is standing in a very strong position for 2017, so this is a year to move forward, look for promotion and pursue your goals. For the Snake, its a good year to enjoy some fine dining, but you will need the support of close friends or allies to make progress. The Ox is also standing in quite a strong position. They could find themselves more in the spotlight this year, taking to the stage or whatever platform is appropriate to them and even the potential to receive valuable recognition for their work.

MFA: ANY PARTICULAR SIGNS THAT WILL BE AFFECTED BADLY THIS YEAR?

In the Chinese Zodiac the Rooster clashes with the Rabbit. So, it is the Rabbit who is most adversely affected. In addition, those born in the following years can find that it is a difficult year for them: 1933, 1942, 1951, 1966, 1975, 1984, 1993, 2002, 2011. For people born in the year of the Rabbit or in the years listed above, it is best to avoid risky activities and dangerous places and also take the more conservative line this year. To mitigate this energy a little they can give a blood donation or make a donation to charity. For these people, it is not a good year for making decisions or big changes in their life, as their decision making is not as clear. Health-wise, there is risk to the liver, neck, eyes and lungs. So, these people should take the necessary health and safety precautions to minimise the potential for accidents and to look after their personal wellbeing.

Nikki Bishop is a UK-based BaZi Master and Feng Shui Consultant offering BaZi Readings, Feng Shui Consultations, Auspicious Date Selection and I Ching Readings; as well as being a teacher across many Feng Shui disciplines. For more information, please visit her website.
What Investors Should Make of Windfall Taxes and Export Bans

Editors Note: MarketMinder favors no politician nor any political party, assessing politics and policy ideas solely for their potential market and economic impact.

Crude oil and gasoline prices may be down from this years highs, but households worldwide continue dealing with high home energy costs, spurring governments to consider taking action. On our shores, the Biden administration is jawboning about an Energy sector windfall profits tax and banning oil and gas exports. Britain is mulling an extension of its own temporary windfall tax, and Australia is considering an export ban and capping natural gas prices. Now, this is obviously a politically sensitive topic, so please understand that we arent trying to take sides or wade into the political aspectespecially on the eve of Americas midterm elections. But considering policies impact is an important task from an investing standpoint. In this case, while we dont think any of these initiatives would likely be a net benefit, we doubt their imposition would be a huge new negative for stocks.

Take windfall profits taxes. The argument for them seems simple: Oil and gas companies have enjoyed bumper profits due to prices that rose for reasons outside their control this yeara happy accident, according to our politicianswhile consumers have suffered. Therefore, it is only fair to tax this temporary windfall and use the proceeds to help households and businesses having trouble making ends meet. Problem is, a windfall tax discourages new investment, which is what is ultimately needed to bring prices down. Why would companies invest in future production now when governments are signaling they could raid any profits that brings? It also ignores recent history as well as the Energy sectors cyclicality. In general, oil prices rise as demand exceeds supply. Eventually high prices incentivize new investment, which boosts production and brings supply in balance with demand. Inevitably, oil companies overshoot, creating a supply glut that pulls prices down. When that happens, they cut costs to stay afloat, which eventually reduces supply as new wells dont come online to replace spent ones. That leads to supply shortages, pushing prices higher and starting the whole cycle anew.

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COLLINSVILLE  In Henry County Circuit Court, Jeffrey Wayne Martin of Martinsville received sentences totaling 40 years in prison on several drug charges, with a total of nine years active.

A judge suspended a total of 31 years of the sentences on conditions including supervised probation and payment of $750 restitution.

Martin had pleaded guilty to two amended charges of distribution of cocaine-second offense, and one count each of an amended charge of distribution of schedule 2 controlled substance-second offense, distribution of schedule 3 controlled substance and distribution of schedule 4 controlled substance (alprazolam). He was charged in incidents on Nov. 3 and Nov. 7, 2014; and April 22, 2015.

HENRY COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT

Also in Henry County Circuit Court recently, Robert Dale Taylor of Ridgeway pleaded guilty to three counts of distribute meth (on April 6, May 4 and May 18, 2016) and pleaded guilty to distribute imitation controlled substance (on July 28, 2016). A judge ordered a presentence report and set sentencing for April 19.The prosecution dropped several charges against Taylor: three counts of conspiracy to distribute meth (on April 6, May 4 and May 18, 2016); and one count each of feloniously obtaining money or property by false pretense (on July 28, 2016) and conspiracy to distribute imitation controlled substance (on July 28, 2016).

Brian Kevin Martin of Bassett pleaded guilty to unlawful wounding (on June 24, 2016) and received a sentence of two years in prison, with six months active and one year and six months suspended on conditions including one year and six months of supervised probation.

The prosecution dropped a charge of strangulation (on April 27, 2016) against Dean Rudolph Marshall of Fieldale.

Christopher Roger Riggs of Bassett pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm after having been convicted of a felony in less than 10 years. A judge set sentencing for Feb. 15.

Derasha Devontae Salda of Martinsville, who was charged with felonious breaking and entering with intent to commit larceny, pleaded guilty to an amended charge of misdemeanor enter property to damage. A judge sentenced him to 60 days in jail, all suspended, and fined him $100. The offense allegedly happened July 20, 2016. Craig Devar Swift of Danville pleaded guilty to forge public document (on June 6, 2016). A judge ordered a presentence report and set sentencing on April 19. The prosecution dropped a charge of forge public document (on June 6, 2016).

Brittany Renea Williams of Bassett pleaded guilty to these charges: two counts of shoplifting-third or subsequent offense, a felony, on Aug. 18 and Oct. 22, 2016; two counts of forgery (on Oct. 22, 2016), a felony. A judge set sentencing for Feb. 15.

Holley Nichole Wimbish of Bassett, who was charged with shoplifting-third or subsequent offense, a felony, pleaded guilty to an amended charge of misdemeanor shoplifting. She received a sentence of 12 months in jail, with 11 months and 24 days suspended.

Shaquez Shonte Cole of Martinsville, who was charged with felonious attempted malicious wounding of a family/household member (on Aug. 28, 2016), pleaded guilty to an amended charge of misdemeanor domestic assault and battery. A judge took the case under advisement for a year and set sentencing for Feb. 7, 2018.

A judge granted a $20,000 secured bond for Douglas Wayne Fain Jr. of Bassett, who is charged with aggravated sexual battery of a child less than 13 years old , object sexual penetration on a child less than 13 years old, rape of a child less than 13 years old, carnal knowledge of a victim 13-14 years old and two counts of forcible sodomy in which the victim is less than 13 years old. The charges stem from incidents several years ago starting in 1997.

Victoria Walker Cumbee of Bassett, who had pleaded guilty to shoplifting-third or subsequent offense, a felony, received a sentence of five years in prison, with three months active and four years and nine months suspended on conditions including two years of supervised probation and payment of $5.16 restitution. She was charged in an incident March 3, 2016. She also was convicted of an amended charge of misdemeanor shoplifting (on April 24, 2016) and received a sentence of 12 months in jail, with three months active and nine months suspended on conditions including two years of supervised probation.

Marvin Lorenzo Millner Jr. of Martinsville was convicted of felonious elude police (on Jan. 21, 2016) and received a sentence of five years in prison, with six months active and four years and six months suspended on conditions including two years of supervised probation.

Brandi Lynn Turner of Ridgeway, who had pleaded guilty to forge public document (on March 14, 2016), received a sentence of three years in prison, with one month active and two years and 11 months suspended on conditions including two years of supervised probation.

Kay Frances Reynolds of Ridgeway, who had pleaded guilty to felonious shoplifting (on July 12, 2016), received a sentence of five years in prison with one year active and four years suspended on conditions including two years of supervised probation.

Gentry Eugene McPeak III of Ridgeway, who was charged with felonious possession of marijuana with intent to distribute (on April 25, 2016), pleaded guilty to an amended charge of misdemeanor sale/distribute marijuana. He received a sentence of 12 months in jail, all suspended on conditions including payment of a $500 fine.

Christopher Andre Perkins of Martinsville, who was charged with felonious robbery (on July 15, 2016), pleaded guilty to an amended charge of misdemeanor accessory after fact in felony. He was sentenced to 12 months in jail and ordered to pay $900 restitution. The prosecution dropped a charge of conspire to commit robbery.

Jamie Nichole Vaughn of Patrick Springs, who was charged with shoplifting-third offense (on Sept. 8, 2016), a felony, pleaded guilty to an amended charge of misdemeanor shoplifting/alter merchandise. She received a sentence of 12 months in jail, all suspended.
MARTINSVILLE  A collaborative effort by Magna Vista Highs college advisor Taylor Dowd and science teacher Joel Bunn brought students face to face Friday with a leading expert in the field.

While Tom Di Liberto wasnt able to physically drive from the Climate Prediction Center in the nations capitol, where he works as a meteorologist and official blogger for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administrations Climate.gov, he did speak to Bunns class via real-time flashchat, a webcam. The meeting was brought about by the Virginia College Advising Corps (VCAC) and DreamWakers partnership, which hosts a program, Virginia is for Job Lovers: Virtual Commonwealth Career Series.

Di Liberto explained his job, and what exactly the Climate Prediction Center does, to the class.

Im paid to be wrong all the time, Di Liberto said, garnering laughs from the students.

Di Liberto specializes in predicting and studying El Nino, but its not an easy task.

The Pacific Ocean is huge and theres not a lot of observation out there, Di Liberto said.

El Nino refers to the warming of the ocean surface, periods where we see above-average sea temperatures in either the central or eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. That in turn impacts the weather across not just this country, but around the world.

Being in an El Nino pattern basically means there is a very active southern jet stream that allows a lot of moisture to work its way up the East Coast. When colder air is combined with more moisture, then it creates the conditions that lead to a lot of snow. If the air is warmer, then the region gets stuck with rain. Di Liberto and his team track the El Nino conditions when they appear in the ocean, helping to predict temperatures and weather conditions.

Whether or not its a relaxed day in the office or hes tracking a major storm system, the scientist said the weathers always fascinated him. He credits his love for clouds, storms and snow with an appreciation of the outdoors that hes had since childhood.

Im one of those weirdoes who knew what they wanted to do in the first grade, Di Liberto said. Everybody wanted to be these cool things and I wanted to be a weatherman.

In college, Di Libertos childhood dreams only veered slightly. He realized that more than weather, his interests leaned more toward climate change.

The meteorologist took physics and science courses in college, which helped him attain the knowledge he needed to have a career in forecasting.

Its applied physics, Di Liberto said about his job.

He made certain that the upper-level, mathematic based courses didnt scare off those interested in the career.

You dont have to be a math genius, Di Liberto said. You just have to have an understanding of the basics.

Students engaged in conversation with Di Liberto and asked him several climate-related questions.

Bunn, who made sure there were no duplicate questions, expressed pride over the plethora of subjects about which his class inquired.

The questions ranged from specifics on ocean temperatures to how changes affect sea life to alterations in the ozone. Several questions, like how different species could be affected by temperature changes, challenged Di Liberto.

Thats a hard question to answer because we dont even know how many species there are in the world, Di Liberto said.

The meteorologist said that changes in the climate generally affect small species that most people dont even think about. However, the extinction of small creatures affects the rest of the population because it disturbs the food chain.

Di Liberto covered why changes in temperature occur occurs, saying, The earth revolves around the sun on and tilt and the tilt can change.

Depending on the earths tilt and whether or not the planets orbit is more circular or oval-shaped determines the amount of energy the earth receives from the sun.

Whats different now is that its happening really, really fast, Di Liberto said about climate change.

While the meteorologist felt the changes people alive today will experience will likely be minimal, the earth could be rather different in the next 300, 500 or even 1,000 years.

Scientists are already noticing changes in the weather, he told the class, like record highs occurring only a few years apart instead of areas taking 20 years or more to produce higher temperatures.

Bunn hoped talking with the meteorologist made an impact on the students.

The biggest benefit for me, I think, is that the students got their questions answered by an expert, Bunn said.

After thanking Di Liberto for his time, the teacher asked the meteorologist one final question.

Whats one piece of advice you would give someone interested in going into the sciences? Bunn asked.

Keep going, Di Liberto said. If this is something youre interested in, dig into it.

He motivated students to seek new information.

Dont be afraid of not knowing something, Di Liberto said. Whatever youre into, if thats your passion, stick to it.

For those seeking a career in science, Di Liberto encouraged exploration.

Science is great. I like it because its creative, Di Liberto said. Youre creating knowledge. Youre adding to the knowledge of science. Thats huge. Thats crazy to me.

Amie Knowles reports for the Martinsville Bulletin. She can be reached at
CHELSEA Two Revere police officers, a dating couple, have been arrested and charged with beating the woman's two sons, one with a belt because he did not eat his supper fast enough.

According to the Suffolk County District Attorney's Office, Marcos Garcia, 32, of Saugus, who has since resigned from the Revere police force, was arrested last week and arraigned in Chelsea District Court Thursday, January 19. He entered pleas of not guilty to charges he stripped the 5-year-old boy naked, handcuffed him, then beat him with his hands and whipped him with a belt. The boy's 8-year-old brother, who was in the next room during the beating, told authorities he counted 20 lashes of the belt

The Boston Globe reported that on Friday, Garcia's girlfriend of two years and the boys' mother, 31-year-old Angela Halovich, also a Revere police officer, was arrested and charged in connection with that incident. Like Garcia, she faces charges of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and assault and battery on a child with injury.

Authorities said that on the evening of January 12, Garcia took the 5-year-old boy to a bedroom after the child was not able to eat his dinner fast enough for Garcia. In court documents, authorities said Garcia made the boy take off his clothes, then he handcuffed the child, slapped, punched and choked the boy, then slammed him into the floor before whipping him with the belt.

The next day, when the nurse at the boys' school asked about the young boy's bruises and cuts, the 8-year-old brother told the nurse what had happened. The 5-year-old did as Garcia told him and said he fell down the stairs. The older brother told officials about the beating his younger brother took. He said he too had been beaten. Garcia said it would make him a man.

The 5-year-old was taken by authorities to Boston Children's Hospital for examination and documentation of his injuries. Doctors said they found indications the boy may have also suffered internal injuries as well as the outward signs of the beating.

Garcia is married to another woman with whom he has a 3-year-old daughter. At his arraignment, he was ordered to stay away from and have no contact with anyone under the age of 18, except his own child, without the knowledge of a parent or guardian.

The Globe reported that Garcia submitted his resignation to the Revere Police Department Thursday.

Halovich is on paid administrative leave from that same department.
Crowd.jpg

Hundreds of people turned out for an "emergency rally" for immigrant rights in Springfield on Friday night.

(Lucas Ropek)

SPRINGFIELD -- Following on the heels of the Trump White House's recent legislation targeting immigrants and refugees, a number of Western Massachusetts's most progressive activist groups held an "emergency rally" for immigrant rights in Springfield on Friday night.

Dubbed "Sanctuary in the Streets," the event drew hundreds of people and was held on the steps of City Hall on Court Street.

Views expressed at the rally were uniformly critical of the Trump White House's recent legislation targeting refugees and illegal immigrants.

Over the past week, Trump has advanced a number of controversial policies, including plans to construct a large border wall between the U.S. and Mexico, and the creation of new border detention centers to incarcerate illegals. He has also threatened to cut off federal funding to sanctuary cities across the country, and has advocated for the expansion of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (I.C.E.).

The new president's spate of executive orders has left the progressive community scrambling to protect the populations most vulnerable to Trump's agenda. In Springfield, residents and activists sympathetic to the plight of immigrants and refugees came out in droves to protest his policies.

Despite temperatures in the low thirties, hundreds of people turned out to Friday's vigil--many waving signs that said things like "Sanctuary Now," "No Cooperation with I.C.E.," or even "America Is Better Than This."

The primary organizer behind the event was the Pioneer Valley Workers Center--a non-profit based in Northampton that focuses on labor rights as well as other progressive causes. Representatives from numerous co-sponsors of the event were also present, including groups like Springfield's Arise for Social Justice, Western Mass Jobs with Justice, and a local chapter of Black Lives Matter.

The event featured a slew of speakers and performers, all of which urged solidarity with refugees and immigrants--encouraging engaged citizen activism as a means of standing up to the Trump administration.

A common refrain heard throughout the evening was the desire to make Springfield a sanctuary city, and the disappointment felt about Mayor Domenic Sarno's recent disavowal of such an idea.

Another running theme at the event was the importance of perseverance despite seemingly insurmountable odds. Many organizations present were ones whose entire reason for existence is to protect the demographics Trump has targeted.

One of the speakers was Kathryn Buckley-Brawner, the executive director of Catholic Charities--the organization chosen to facilitate the relocation of 51 Syrian refugees into Northampton over the course of the next several months. Now faced with a potential suspension of the federal processes necessary to continue that relocation, Buckley-Brawner expressed optimism about the future of her organization's work.

"I want you to know that we're going to keep working," Buckley-Brawner said. "There is no such thing as scuttling us. There is no such thing as bringing us to a halt."



Another speaker was Claudia Quintero, an immigrant and Western New England University (WNEU) law student, who spoke out in solidarity with undocumented immigrants in the Pioneer Valley.

"I am an immigrant, I was a DREAMER, I was undocumented until I was 17-years-old," Quintero said. "I became a naturalized citizen four years ago--I took the oath and I pledged to the United States of America, but not for this. I did not agree to this," Quintero said.

Quintero made it clear that WNEU is attempting to clarify matters surrounding the President's recent executive orders, noting that the school has an upcoming forum regarding what the new legislation may mean for immigrants in the U.S. "We are trying to provide spaces where people feel safe and protected," Quintero said.

As an immigrant herself, someone who has gone through the complex process of naturalization, Quintero expressed a deep sympathy for those living undocumented in the U.S. "All immigrants are valuable. All immigrants are important," she said.
Islamic Center fire

Victoria firefighters respond to a fire at the Islamic Center of Victoria on Saturday, Jan. 28 in Victoria, Texas. The early-morning fire Saturday destroyed the mosque that was a target of hatred several years ago and experienced a burglary just a week ago. (Barclay Fernandez/The Victoria Advocate via AP)

VICTORIA, Texas (AP) -- An early-morning fire Saturday

that was a target of hatred several years ago and experienced a burglary just a week ago.

A clerk at a convenience store spotted smoke and flames billowing from the Islamic Center of Victoria at around 2 a.m. and called the fire department.

"It's sad to stand there and watch it collapse down, and the fire was so huge," Shahid Hashmi, the Islamic center's president, said. "It looks completely destroyed."

The Islamic Center of Victoria at 201 E. Airline Rd is fully engulfed in fire. A clerk at nearby Exxon station said he called 911 abt 2 a.m. pic.twitter.com/yc9akLNfnq  Jon Wilcox (@thrilcox) January 28, 2017

Victoria Fire Marshal Tom Legler asked for help from the Texas Fire Marshal's Office and federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to determine what caused the blaze. Hashmi said authorities have told him it was too early to speculate.

"None whatsoever right now," the center director said. "We don't have any lead or information as to what started the fire and what happened. So I'm sure it's going to be a few days, they told us, before they can come up with any answers for us."

The congregation's pastor, known as an imam, was awake in the early morning hours and checked online surveillance of the mosque and found no alarm active and the doors unlocked, Hashmi said. On Jan. 21, someone broke in and stole some electronics, including laptops.

"He was worried about it and drove over there," Hashmi said. "By that time, fire engines were already there pouring water on the fire."

A sad day in our beloved City! Posted by Victoria Islamic Center on Saturday, January 28, 2017

The structure was built in 2000.

No injuries were reported. It took about four hours to extinguish the blaze.

Hashmi, who's lived in Victoria 32 years, said the congregation of about 140 has had few other problems and has enjoyed support from the city of about 115 miles southwest of Houston. He already has received offers of temporary quarters for the congregation to worship.

"When 9/11 happened, Muslims and non-Muslims, we all got together," he said. "Of course, we will rebuild."

A firefighter walks in front of the Islamic Center of Victoria on Saturday, Jan. 28 in Victoria, Texas. (Barclay Fernandez/The Victoria Advocate via AP)

The

on Saturday reported that in July 2013, a man admitted to painting "H8," a computer shorthand for "hate," on the outside of the building.

On Jan. 7, a mosque under construction near Lake Travis in Austin was burned to the ground.

The Texas office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations said like that blaze, it would monitor the investigation of the Victoria fire.

"Because of growing anti-Muslim bigotry in our nation, and because of the recent spike in hate incidents targeting Islamic institutions and individuals, we urge investigators to keep the possibility of a bias motive for this fire in mind," CAIR-Houston Executive Director Mustafaa Carroll said.

There's been no determination yet for the Austin blaze, Diane Kanawati, with CAIR-Austin, said Saturday.

In December, a man was sentenced to four years in prison for setting fire to a Houston mosque where he worshipped. Gary Nathaniel Moore pleaded guilty to arson and using a fire as a deadly weapon in a Dec. 25, 2015, blaze that caused significant damage at the Islamic Society of Greater Houston mosque.
Most companies post jobs. Hoping to attract employees.

We post opportunities. Hoping to attract business partners.

First Call is the leader in Managed IT, Cloud Computing and IT Project Services for technology-driven and value-focused businesses in Montana. We have been recognized by Microsoft as one of Montanas premier solution providers. Our leadership team consists of highly respected individuals allowing you to learn from some of the best in the industry. Our companys culture is built on the foundation of creating wins for our customers, employees and owners. We have a passion for superior service, process/consistency and building a great company right here in Montana.

Opportunities: https://firstsolution.com/careers/

Wed appreciate it if youd mention that you found these opportunities on MATR.net Many thanks
"For small to medium to national organizations, for events and fundraisers of any size, in any format  live, virtual or hybrid  the platform is built for scale."
Customer service has traditionally been a support function to respond to customer initiated requests, meaning someone waits for the phone to ring or for a website support request form. Todays customers definition of service is the sum total of their "experience," covering all aspects of their relationship, including the shopping and buying process, as well as ongoing assistance.

Marty Zwilling

Full Story: http://blog.startupprofessionals.com/2017/01/7-rules-for-providing-exceptional.html
As with most of your gadgets, however, youre probably only scratching the surface of what your droid can do. And so weve compiled a list of five useful tips and tricks to help you get more out of your device.

Marc Saltzman , USA TODAY

Full Story: http://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/columnist/saltzman/2017/01/28/five-awesome-android-tips-and-tricks/97140982/
Auto dealers are constantly under pressure to move cars off their lots, and profitably for this industry has always been a real concern. Even more problems arise when certain models arent selling as well as others. A recent meeting among major auto dealers in the United States yielded some insight into the concerns and problems that they currently are facing.

As a side note, the Trump administrations primary focus is bringing jobs back to the United State, and the main avenue for this is through manufacturing companies. As part of this, Trump is meeting with auto producers like Ford Motor Co. (NYSE:F) or General Motors Co. (GM) to move their factories and production back stateside. Although, this could have some unforeseen consequences within the industry and even downstream to the dealers.

ALSO READ: 2017 Vehicles With Highest Projected Resale Value

More and more dealers are seeing shifting trends in U.S. auto sales. For one, compact cars and sedans are seemingly going out of style, at least for now. Crossovers, sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and trucks are taking their place, and this is what the American consumer is demanding.

Jim Morino, owner of Acura of Lynnwood in Washington, has commented that 2016 was rough and that sedan sales did not live up to expectations. At the same time, crossovers like the Acura MDX and RDX were in tight supply.

Morino further commented:

Profitability for Acura nationally overall is down. Were down from where we were in 2015, and that is definitely a concern for dealers.

Mike Bowsher, owner of Carl Black Automotive Group in Kennesaw, Georgia, said that Chevrolet dealers were facing similar concerns. He mentioned that dealers ultimately want more trucks and crossovers:

ALSO READ: 6 Trends That Could Cripple the Car Industry

I wouldn't say we're short. But with Colorado crew-cab trucks and full-size utilities, we all want more. Dealers are always screaming for that. For SUVs, I'll take every one we can get. Diesels, too -- we just can't get enough.

Story continues

Bowsher added:

All dealers care really about two things. First and foremost is franchise value, and second is dealership profitability.

Related Articles
by Sara Guaglione , January 27, 2017

Readership of Metro US newspapers has grown across New York, Philadelphia and Boston to nearly 4 million in print and digital, per the company.

One million people a day picked up a copy of Metro newspapers in the three cities, based on the latest readership survey by Nielsen Scarborough, amounting to about 138,000 new Metro print readers a day.

This represents a 16% increase year-over-year in print audiences, compared to a recent 7% dip for other daily print newspapers in the three cities, said Wilf Maunoir, Metro US marketing and research director.

Print readership has struggled in recent years, and publishers have suffered from declining print ad revenue.

Metro US newspapers are distributed for free  mostly in areas with high commuter traffic like public transportation stations  and rely entirely on advertising for revenue.

While most print media vehicles are seeing their audience shrink, Metros print audience is growing in an increasingly digital and connected world, stated Maunoir. He credited its "hybrid media," for the rise, citing the newspaper's edit formula and free distribution model.

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Maunoir told Publishers Daily there is a stark difference between newspapers which charge for readership and free papers.

For a free daily, there are no transaction costs, and racks are placed in convenient areas for people to pick up on the go, he said.

Our style of journalism is of course very different from The New York Times. Metro can be consumed in 20 minutes, which fits the morning commute. People dont have time, and their attention span is shorter than it used to be, he said.

He added the growth of Metros online traffic also contributed to increased brand awareness, which helped print readership metrics.

A combined 3.4 million people read a copy of Metro in New York, Philadelphia and Boston each month in 2016. An additional 518,000 nationwide visited Metro.us, according to Google Analytics.

Metro New York reached 1.5 million readers a week in print and online, making it the most read free daily newspaper in Greater New York. This growth was largely a result of a distribution partnership with the MTA. New racks were installed at 100 subway stations in the city, with each rack holding 700 copies.

In Philadelphia, Metros readership jumped 24%, reaching 743,000 people. Metro Boston experienced a 13% increase in readership and a monthly audience of 451,000.

The Metro newspapers published in the U.S. were owned by Swedish-based Metro International before it was sold to former CEO Pelle Toernberg in 2009.
by Sara Guaglione , Staff Writer, January 27, 2017

On a winter day with temperatures in the teens, I took refuge from the snowy streets of Soho in a warm, impeccably styled pop-up shop hosted by home decor magazine Domino.

Domino CEO Nathan Coyle toured me around the room, which was lined with wood shelves supporting glassware from Anna Karlin, home accessories from Fort Makers and textiles from Cold Picnic  all items curated by the editorial team at the magazine. At the front of the store, just behind the glass facing the street, was a gift-wrapping station sponsored by Target, featuring polka-dotted paper in festive colors.

The shop, which also hosted workshops on such holiday themes as party food presentation and wreath-making, was so successful that Coyle decided to keep it open a week longer than originally planned.

And that, Coyle explained, is the key to surviving in the media industry, especially as an independent publisher like Domino: making sure your brand is multiplatform, and not relying on any one platform.

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The Domino brand reaches across multiple businesses, a strategy Coyle calls being omnichannel. Domino has a vibrant quarterly print publication, a book publishing business (the company just released Domino: Your Guide to a Stylish Home, a follow-up to its "Domino: The Book of Decorating"), e-commerce, retail, digital channels and an e-mail newsletter that has over 1 million subscribers.

These things do great heavy lifting in terms of brand-building, Coyle said. Its about having diversified initiatives and platforms. They give back in spades on the brand side and when you do it well and keep doing it, then you start to build meaningful business and revenue as well.

Coyle said merchandise sales from the pop-up Manhattan store were cash positive and exceeded my projections by huge amounts.

As a result of its success, Coyle plans to open pop-up stores in different cities across the country this year, including Brooklyn and Los Angeles.

The brick-and-mortar store is an extension of Dominos efforts to make revenue from e-commerce. Curated items are made available for consumers to buy on its site with the help of a custom CMS. The CMS automatically detects products written about in a story and adds a clickable link, allowing readers to buy the item mentioned.

The "shoppable articles" help "cross the bridge between content and commerce, Coyle said.

Domino also has a Marketplace on the site, where designers can sign up to sell their products, once theyre approved by editors. This gives independent designers access to t Domino consumers, and Domino gets a cut from the sale.

While being an independent publisher has its challenges  larger publishing conglomerates have more toys in their sandbox as Coyle put it, particularly with advertisers and audience reach  he said that Domino, previously published by Conde Nast, has embraced its independence in the industry.

We are actively reaching out to other independent voices in our space to create our own types of alliances that give us incremental scale, such as partnering with indie sites and blogs by influencers that have hit a certain size and scale."

When Domino was resurrected in 2013, it switched to publishing quarterly from monthly, in large part to focus more on the digital side of the business. In the last six months, Dominos monthly unique visitors doubled in November to two million monthly unique visitors.

Coyles goal is to double the traffic again by this December.

He said a challenge in the industry is publishers competing for advertiser dollars with social platforms and Google. Coyle believes that homepages are going to be less central and will ultimately face the same future as the newsstand. Content is going to be increasingly consumed on social platforms, he said.

Publishers are feeling pressure in programmatic advertising, Coyle said, and many are building a direct sell to an advertising business.

Most people would agree with me that programmatic buying is a real challenge in terms of shrinking ad revenue, Coyle said.

His view is that in order to crack the code on a platforms algorithms, publishers need to have a diversified voice and trusted authority" in their vertical, and "find and exploit the right channels to get in front of the eyeballs of [the right] audience, Coyle said.

Print advertising revenue isn't doing any better, he added. Just from the talks we are having with advertisers, print budgets will continue to be depressed and have downward pressure, he said.

But Coyle explained that there are benefits to staying in the print business. Having this physical manifestation is powerful, he said. Its powerful with advertisers to have something they can put in their hands that expresses our brand in a compelling way.

Thats another reason Domino has a premium pricing approach to its magazine. Each issue on the newsstand is $12.99, or $47.99 for an annual subscription.

Magazine sellers make a lot more money from our publication than something that sells for a lot less, Coyle said.

The power of a brand is more important than ever and will continue to be, he said. Having a resonant brand is going to separate winners from losers.

Coyle said the next area of growth will be in video. He plans to hire a head of production and produce daily videos by the second quarter of 2017.
by Joe Mandese @mp_joemandese, January 28, 2017

If you repeat a lie enough, it becomes the truth.

That quote has been attributed to Nazi propaganda minister Joseph Goebbels. I say attributed because even though there are many reports of him saying it, there is no public record that he actually did.

In other words, it could be a lie that has become the truth simply because it was repeated enough times.

I learned that fact while researching a similar quote Ive seen attributed many times to Donald Trump:

You tell people a lie three times, they will believe anything. You tell people what they want to hear, play to their fantasies, and then you close the deal.

One report said it came from the book The Art Of The Deal, which was written by Trump and writer Tony Schwartz. It is a lie that is easily proven simply by reading the book.

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But that lie has been repeated enough times that a significant number of people now believe it to be true, even though there is an indelible public record proving it is not. This phenomenon is not new, but it is one that seems to be growing -- I believe -- because of digital media, especially social, and its ability to spread misinformation so quickly and among so many people. Goebbels would be proud.

The phenomenon has a name. Its called the Mandela Effect, because it was a mass false remembering of the life -- and especially the death -- of the South African leader that coined it.

The term 'Mandela Effect' was coined by self-described 'paranormal consultant' Fiona Broome, who has written on her Web site that she first became aware of the phenomenon after discovering that she shared a particular false memory  that South African human rights activist and president Nelson Mandela died in prison during the 1980s (he actually died in 2013)  with many other people, explains an entry on Snopes.com.

Im sourcing Snopes, because there is no reference for it on Wikipedia, which simply redirects the term to an entry for false memory.

I first learned about the Mandela Effect when my friend Tom Siebert asked me if I remembered something from the 1980s James Bond film Moonraker.

Do you remember the character Jaws? he asked.

Of course, I said as my brain instantly produced images of giant Richard Kiel, and the prosthetic metal teeth his character was named for.

Do you remember his girlfriend, Tom asked?

Maybe, sort of, I replied.

Do you remember what attracted Jaws to her? Tom asked, adding: Do you remember she had braces?

Not really, I said as cloudy images of a young woman with braces began to form in my head.

Tom, an ad man (Initiative, Huge and Digitaria) and journalist (Adweek and MediaPost), writes a regular column for San Diego alternative newsweekly San Diego City Beat, and had just written about a Mandela Effect in which people remember Jaws girlfriend Dolly having braces in the film, even though all public records show her without them -- even original analogue VHS tapes.

Toms column explored potential conspiratorial reasons why Dolly no longer has braces and after he published his column he said he was even contacted by quantum physicists who said it potentially could be evidence that alternative realities are slipping into the one that most of us consider to be real.

I offered Tom my own theory: That the shift from analog to digital media makes it difficult for people to source and cite indelible public records to confirm what actually happened. Digital media inherently are more malleable and fungible than analogue media.

Yes, you could always manually retouch photos, paint phony versions of masterpieces or publish fake copies of Adolph Hitlers diary, but it was harder to replace actual facts with alternative facts in analogue than digital media. And it was easier to detect when something was altered of faked when someone did.

Another big problem with digital media isnt how it distorts the public record of facts and information, but how it alters the way people perceive it. It is more difficult for people to discern real information from fake information in many digital interfaces. Hence the phenomenon of fake news, not just as a new kind of publishing enterprise, but in the way we think about, disseminate and spread information to each other.

If you search the false Trump attribution you tell people a lie three times on Twitter you will see the top of the feed features a tweet from someone citing it as fact, and also embedding a video GIF showing two Donald Trumps slapping skin.



I first became aware of this digital news-filtering problem before social media or even the Web existed. Another friend and public relations research expert Mark Weiner, who is now head of Prime Research, conducted some research in the early days of commercial online services and found average people could not distinguish between the PR Newswire and the Associated Press when they read it in their newsfeed on CompuServe.

Apparently, neither can the White House, which broke from tradition during the first official press conference of the Trump Administration by taking its first question not from the AP, but from the New York Post.

Politics aside, the danger of Trumps running war with the media is that if it removes standard protocols for working with the press then it threatens to alter the public record of truthful information from the top down, as opposed to the bottoms up way it has been happening to date: social media, fake news, fringe conspiratorial theories, etc. Im dubbing this the Trumpela Effect. If my theory is correct, that will somehow become part of the public record. Not just because it was published by MediaPost, but because of the malleable distortionary nature of digital media, and how it can alter the public record.

I can tell you this, because I recently had my own firsthand experience distorting the public record for political purpose. While I was live-blogging MediaPosts Marketing: Politics conference in Washington, D.C. on Jan. 17, I posted a verbatim comment made by Bob Garfield who was moderating a panel that was, ironically, about the role social media, fake news, Internet trolls, etc., played in the 2016 presidential election. His panel included a top media operative for Bernie Sanders campaign, Revolution Messagings Jenn Kauffman.

To illustrate the point, Garfield turned to Kauffman and said, I would never put words in your mouth, but were live blogging this event and do you think the headline could be something along the lines of Jenn Kauffman: Hillary Campaign Staff, Not Hillary, Should Be Thrown In Jail.

And because I always take my cues from Bob Garfield, I blogged that -- verbatim -- including the headline. I can tell you it is verbatim, because I have an indelible public record of it and you can even watch it yourself 15 minutes and nine seconds into the embedded conference video below (unless someone forces me to take it down later).

Almost immediately following the post, I began receiving emails from colleagues, Kauffman herself, her boss, my boss and a barrage of supporters asking me to take it down or change the headline.

I responded to all of them that we have an editorial policy of not altering the public record of what we publish, but that when we get something wrong we publish new information in the form of corrections, clarifications, addenda, etc. to set the record straight. We also cross-link the new information with the original publication and add a note to the original item explaining that.

This is an old school approach to journalism. It comes from the print era when you literally could not alter the public record of what you published, because it was printed on ink and paper and already on newsstands, in mailboxes, or in readers' hands.

This policy is not popular, but Ive tried my best to maintain it for the 14 years that Ive edited MediaPost for the reasons I cite above: because I think indelible public records are more important than ever. Even when they are wrong, because they are a part of the historical fact, and when they are wrong should be corrected as part of the historical fact, not covered up by a digital redo.

I lost the battle and was forced to a change the headline of the live blog post, but I believe that just creates a distortion of what actually happened, because there are email versions of the original headline still in peoples inboxes, and because some people had already read it.

Ironically, one of Kauffmans main arguments for us to alter our headline was because digital media like Google searches and distribution via social media would decouple the headline from the full post that explained the context of it. I say its ironic, because some of those digital memories still exist, but there is not public record explaining why the headline was changed. Well, until now, which is why I am cross-linking to the original blog post so anyone reading it will know exactly what transpired.

We live in an era when truth has become so malleable in large part because of digital media, that it is more important than ever before to have indelible public records so people can decide for themselves what the truth is.

Based on the first week of the Trump Administrations war with the media, Im not optimistic that will be the case. It is remarkable that the first battle was over facts for which indelible public records existed. In the case of the administrations first salvo -- the battle over coverage of Trumps inauguration audience size -- there was photographic evidence as well as eyewitness accounts, and even mass transit ridership statistics. In the case of Trump's claims that the press had conspired to misrepresent his conflict with the intelligence community, there is video of his own public statements.

In retrospect, I think the major news media have done a remarkable job of maintaining their composure and not allowing Trumps team to bait them into an actual war. They have, for the most part, covered the alternative facts put out by the Trump Administration for what they are.

It must be incredibly difficult for them, especially when Trump strategic advisor Steve Bannon eggs them on, telling the media to shut up and labeling them the opposition party.

Ive tried to understand what the play is. I think there are many reasons. Some of it is the brilliant art of misdirection that Trump has demonstrated so well throughout his career. Some of it is simply to lower the baseline of truth so that when really important issues come up for the media, the administration will simply reiterate its battle with the dishonest media and their fake news. Some of it, I suppose, is simply to rattle, fatigue and disrupt the media so they have less energy and focus on the really important issues.

I dont know, but we will all soon find out as history creates itself before our very eyes -- whether we believe or not, and whether we alter it or not -- in the media, and in our memories.

Id like to end by quoting a source who tried to explain it. And there is an indelible public record, because it is from a book he wrote himself:

All this was inspired by the principlewhich is quite true within itselfthat in the big lie there is always a certain force of credibility; because the broad masses of a nation are always more easily corrupted in the deeper strata of their emotional nature than consciously or voluntarily; and thus in the primitive simplicity of their minds they more readily fall victims to the big lie than the small lie, since they themselves often tell small lies in little matters but would be ashamed to resort to large-scale falsehoods.

It would never come into their heads to fabricate colossal untruths, and they would not believe that others could have the impudence to distort the truth so infamously. Even though the facts which prove this to be so may be brought clearly to their minds, they will still doubt and waver and will continue to think that there may be some other explanation. For the grossly impudent lie always leaves traces behind it, even after it has been nailed down, a fact which is known to all expert liars in this world and to all who conspire together in the art of lying. -- Adolf Hitler, Mein Kampf
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This result, published in theand accompanied by exclusive coverage by the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) is important because it soothes fears raised by an earlier, very controversial study that asserted a significant and troubling connection.Dr. Azoulay, an Associate Professor of Epidemiology and Oncology at McGill University, explained, "However, there is a significant difference between cognitive limitations and the biological mechanisms associated with dementia."Dr. Azoulay and Farzin Khosrow-Khavar, a McGill University doctoral candidate under his supervision, discovered some troubling methodological deficiencies in the studies that found the association. Thus, they undertook to study a cohort of nearly 31,000 men who were newly diagnosed with nonmetastatic prostate cancer over a twenty-seven year period from the United Kingdom's Clinical Practice Research Datalink, one of the largest data bases of its kind."Our group was alarmed to see the earlier study that proposed that ADT doubled the risk of Alzheimer disease," said Dr. Azoulay. "Such a dramatic finding called for further investigation and we found some important methodological problems in the study. Because ADT is so often given to older men, very careful statistical analysis is required to assert a causal relationship. Once we applied the correct methodology we found no statistically significant association. However, we would encourage additional studies to confirm our findings."ASCO was quick to highlight Dr. Azoulay's study because of its immediate clinical importance. It wanted to make sure that clinicians who may have become reluctant to prescribe ADT in light of the contrary finding were reassured that the causal link was not supported by the evidence."For most every medication there is a judgment to be made between its intended purpose and possible adverse effects," point out first author Khosrow-Khavar. "There are coping mechanisms to compensate for anticipated issues with cognition. But, if patients believed that ADT doubled their risk of Alzheimer disease they may be reluctant to take it for their cancer. Thus, our analysis should be welcome news for men whose prostate cancer is being controlled with ADT."Source: Eurekalert
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1% after mastectomy

10% after breast-conserving surgery alone

5% after breast-conserving surgery followed by radiotherapy

2.5% after 10 years

4% after 15 years

DCIS is non-invasive and differs from breast cancer. It originates in the milk ducts of the breast.It does not lead to any signs or symptoms and 80% of the cases are detected through mammography.If left untreated, it can progress into an invasive breast cancer, which can be life-threatening. Around 10-15% of the women with DCIS may develop breast cancer without treatment.It is usually treated with surgery or surgery combined with radiation therapy.The risk of developing invasive breast cancer in the same breast, 10 years following treatment is approximately:The number of women being diagnosed with DCIS is increasing, as it is being detected through breast screening programs.According to the American Cancer Society, about 60,000 cases of DCIS are diagnosed in the United States each year. This accounts for about 1 out of every 5 new breast cancer cases.In the U.K, over 7,000 cases are diagnosed and over 2,300 in the Netherlands.The researcher team led by Dr Jelle Wesseling, a breast pathologist at the Netherlands Cancer Institute, studied data on almost 10,000 Dutch women who were diagnosed with DCIS between 1989 and 2004.They tracked the patients for an average of 10 years and compared their death rates with the expected mortality in the general population.They found that women over 50 years, who had been treated for DCIS had a 10% lower risk of dying from any cause compared to the general population.Dr Lotte Elshof told the Congress, "Being diagnosed with DCIS can be extremely distressing, and research indicates that many women overestimate the risks involved and are confused about treatment. This study should provide reassurance that a diagnosis of DCIS does not raise the risk of dying.""It might seem surprising that this group of women actually has a lower mortality rate than the general population. However, the vast majority would have been diagnosed via breast screening, which suggests they may be health-conscious and well enough to participate in screening."The study shows that the risk of DCIS patients dying from breast cancer isThough these rates are higher than in the general population, the rates were getting lower in women diagnosed with DCIS more recently.Women diagnosed with DCIS had a lower risk of dying from diseases of the circulatory, respiratory and digestive systems and other cancers.Further research with an increased study size is necessary to understand why some cases of DCIS progress into invasive cancer, while others do not.Even after removal of the entire breast or after breast conserving therapy consisting of surgery, generally combined with radiation therapy, DCIS can progress into breast cancer. These treatments can have side-effects, on the heart as well.This research provides reassurance for women diagnosed with DCIS in terms of longevity as well as in regards to the potential risks of side-effects.Professor Philip Poortmans, President-elect of ECCO and head of the Radiation Oncology Department at Radboud University Medical Center (Nijmegen, The Netherlands), said, "However, we have to recognize that in one fifth of the patients who die, the cause is breast cancer, which is likely to result from progression of the DCIS they were diagnosed with. Therefore, we are eagerly waiting for the results of further research to identify the factors - including age, as clearly shown in this study - that contribute to the risk for recurrence and progression from DCIS for each individual patient.""Remarkably, the increased risk of dying from breast cancer is completely offset by a lower risk of dying from other causes compared to women in the general population. This might be explained by the generally better health and socioeconomic status of women who regularly participate in breast cancer screening. This could also be tested in the on-going research." Poortmans added.Source: Medindia
The whole nation, and especially the film fraternity is currently outraged at the Rajput protestors from the Karni Sena who had the audacity to break into the sets of Sanjay Leela Bhansalis Padmavati and not only damage the sets but even physically assault the veteran director.

The mob attacked Sanjay Leela Bhansali and the crew after alleging that the film distorts historical facts. The Karni Sena was apparently miffed with the director after they were informed from unnamed sources that the film would contain love making scenes between Padmavati (played by Deepika Padukone) and Allaudin Khilji (played by Ranveer Singh). Turns out, there was never going to a romantic dream sequence or love making scene between Padmavati and Allaudin Khilji in the film. "We had warned the filmmaker against presenting wrong facts. When we came to know about the shooting, we gathered there and protested," the district president of Karni sena Narayan Singh tried to justify his stance.

Twitter

Director Sanjay Leela Bhansali, who was evidently in a state of shock and disgust at the incident, has finally spoken up about it. He condemned the attack by calling it uncalled for and denied distorting any historical facts for his film. "We clarify that there is no dream sequence or any objectionable scene between Rani Padmavati and Allauddin Khilji. We have been carefully researching and making the film. In spite of this, the attack on the shoot and crew was uncalled for and was extremely damaging to the image of the beautiful city of Jaipur, Sanjay Leela Bhansali said. He even went on to thank the authorities in Jaipur who took charge right in time. "We are grateful to the authorities at Jaipur who responded promptly and limited the damage on shoot."

Twitter

"We are confident that Mewar will be proud of the film made on their revered queen. We do not want to hurt any sentiments and would appreciate if the local people support us in making this film and making their queen revered by the world," the national award winning director added.

It is indeed a matter of shame that an artist has to defend his film in front of protestors who dont even have legitimate proof that historical facts have been played with in the first place. Whats your stance on this fiasco? Could you possibly justify the attack?
Indian soldiers serve the country in some of the most inhospitable environments without ever caring about their own families. This relentless service to the nation deserves a lot of respect and gratitude on our part and therefore Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar has come out in support of developing an app to aid various martyrs kin.

In partnership with the Indian government, Akshay Kumar has volunteered to create a simple web application which will enable ordinary citizens to deposit funds directly into verified bank accounts of the martyrs kin. The link for a donation will be publicized through home ministrys website and will help bridge the gap between citizens who are willing to financially help the families of our fallen security personnel.

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Though government websites offer options to extend financial help to martyr's kin, these are not well-publicised. Also, officialdom delays the process. The app will simplify things, with the home ministry website and Akshay's involvement as a brand ambassador offering it wide publicity," said BSF DIG in Jaisalmer Amit Lodha.

This was Akshay Kumars proposal and he met with home secretary Rajiv Mehrishi for the same. The ministry has backed the project and asked its own experts to work with Akshays team to start the project as soon as possible.

Twitter

The way this app will work is this: Each time a central force personnel gets killed in the line of duty, details of his identity, financial status of his family, number of dependents and details of bank account of next of kin etc will be uploaded on the ministry website, letting people directly deposit their contributions into the account through the app. Once the aggregate contributions reach Rs 15 lakh, the details will be removed from the website so as to channelise further contributions to the next deserving case. Contributions will be eligible for income-tax deductions.

Through this effort for our Indian soldiers, Akshay Kumar has once again shown that to him being rich and famous is also a means to help the country do better for its fallen heroes.
TORONTO, CANADA--(Marketwired - Jan 27, 2017) - BacTech Environmental Corporation ("BacTech" or the "Company") (CSE:BAC)(OTC PINK:BCCEF) today presents its vision for an Ecuadorian project that includes the use of bioleaching to treat high arsenic gold concentrates, resulting in a reduction in mercury use.

Industry Background

With the significant increase in the price of gold over the past 10 years, there has been a corresponding surge in the number of artisanal gold miners ("AGM") globally. An AGM is someone who produces small amounts of ore, usually through the use of rudimentary methods and tools. There are literally hundreds of thousands of these AGMs in the countries of Peru, Ecuador and Colombia, according to Dr. Marcelo Veiga of the University of British Columbia ("UBC") School of Mining, a specialist in this field. Over 30 million people globally participate in at least one facet of the industry and collectively AGMs produce an estimated 10 million ounces of gold (Barrick Gold Corp. produced 5.5 million ounces in 2016).

The Problem

After mining the ore, AGMs typically use mercury as an amalgamator of gold and silver, and the resulting environmental damage is significant. In particular, the use of mercury to obtain gold from arsenopyrite-rich material can be an exercise in futility as normally less that 10% of the gold is separated from this refractory type of ore. This is due to the gold being physically encapsulated within the arsenopyrite, which is unreactive and impervious to mercury amalgamation. The increased use of mercury over the past 10 years has led to many governments and NGOs looking for a solution to the problem. Interested readers should visit the Company's website (www.bactechgreen.com) (under "Newsroom", May 24, 2016) to view a video produced by a documentary company, Vice, on AGM mining in Colombia that illustrates the health risks of dealing with mercury. The long-term effects of mercury exposure to humans have been well documented.

In Ponce Enriquez, Southern Ecuador, steps were taken with the assistance of Dr. Veiga and the Canadian government to build sulphide flotation plants to produce arsenopyrite concentrates that are easier to ship and treat using methods other than mercury amalgamation. For the most part, especially in the case of simple sulphides, this led to a noticeable reduction in the use of mercury. However, in cases where arsenopyrite is the main refractory mineral, it provided a double-edged sword, namely, very good gold grades in the concentrates but also prohibitively high arsenic levels (+10%), making the resulting product much less attractive to buyers.

The Solution

This scenario creates a unique opportunity for BacTech and bioleaching. The reader may not be aware that bioleaching is an effective solution for processing high arsenic compounds. Currently, due to the lack of buyers for arsenopyrite concentrates, in which arsenic can run as high as 17%, there are few options for the miner to be paid a decent price for his labours. During the last year, over 150 tons per day of high arsenic compounds found their way to Asia for processing, but the prices paid to the miner can be as low as 50% of the value of the concentrate before even more deductions are made for high arsenic penalties. In addition, the buyer retains any mineral credits such as silver and copper. BacTech would be able to recover more of the gold, as well as most of the other mineral credits, thus allowing higher payments to be made to local AGMs for their concentrate.

The opportunity provided to BacTech is real. Given BacTech's experience in bioleaching, and after studying the local market with the assistance of the Company's newly appointed country representative, Bernardo Brito, we are confident that a strategy of building a bioleach circuit in Ponce Enriquez would provide healthy returns, not only for BacTech, but also for the local inhabitants. With Ponce Enriquez exports of high-arsenic concentrates growing at a 15-20% yearly rate during the last decade, BacTech would be able to capitalize on a booming mining district, and contribute to its sustainability with minimal competition.

It is BacTech's intent to immediately source 250 kgs of material from the local flotation plants and ship the product to Laurentian University in Sudbury, Ontario. The Company is working closely with Dr. Nadia Mykytczuk at Laurentian to design a 5-6 month bioleach test work program that will be used to confirm a scoping study being provided by Dr. Paul Miller of BacTech. A successful outcome from this program would allow BacTech to pursue the construction of a bioleach plant near the flotation circuits of the area, and to become the sole processor of gold concentrate that is currently shipped halfway around the world.

The benefits to Ecuador and Ponce Enriquez are readily identifiable: from the government's perspective, an increase in employment and subsequent tax receipts; from the locals' perspective, an increase in what they are paid for their ores, as well as an improvement in the environment in which they live due to the elimination of the use of mercury because of the reduced arsenic release into the local environment from processing the concentrate.

Should BacTech be successful in implementing its strategy for Ecuador, there are opportunities to duplicate these plants in other high arsenic areas of the Andes Mountains, namely Northern Peru and Colombia.

It is BacTech's intention to source a local partner in all of its international projects.

Finally, with respect to the drill program underway in Bolivia at the high-grade Telamayu tailings, initial assay results from the 12 pre-Christmas drill holes are expected shortly.

Company Profile

BacTech Environmental Corporation holds the perpetual, exclusive, royalty-free rights to use the patented BACOX bioleaching technology for the reclamation of tailings and mining waste materials. The Company's principal focus is a high-grade silver/copper/tin tailings project called Telamayu, located in Atocha, Bolivia, in association with COMIBOL, the state mining group. Investigation has begun to identify opportunities in Ecuador. The Company continues to field enquiries globally with respect to additional opportunities for remediation, including licensing transactions for the technology.

Follow us on:

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BacTechGreen

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BacTechGreen

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/1613873

Vimeo: http://vimeo.com/bactechgreen

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/bactechgreen

Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking information", which may include, but is not limited to, statements with respect to future tailings sites, sampling or other investigations of tailing sites, the Company's ability to make use of infrastructure around tailings sites or operating performance of the Company and its projects. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", or believes" or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this news release and the Company disclaims, other than as required by law, any obligation to update any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, results, future events, circumstances, or if management's estimates or opinions should change, or otherwise. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Shares outstanding 58,882,930

The Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or the accuracy of the contents of this release.
In what can only be called a very morbid recent decision, Trump did exactly what many of us across the globe had been fearful ofhe ordered a four-month ban against six Muslim-majority countries entering the United States of America.

These countries are Libya, Sudan, Syria, Iraq, Iran and Yemen. He excluded Egypt, Turkey and Saudi Arabiaall of which belong to the same regionfrom the list on the grounds that the US is doing business with these countries.

Bloomberg

Expressing grief and concern about the order, Facebook Founder & CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, took to the social networking site to air his piece of mind.

Heres what he said:

Despite raising his concerns, Zuckerberg remained hopeful of the Trump regime as he reminded his followersand maybe, secretly even Trumpthat the President will work something out, just like he said he would.

Facebook

Zuckerberg even went on to highlight the reality of the situation, stating that, "Right now, 750,000 Dreamers benefit from the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program that allows them to live and work legally in the US. I hope the President and his team keep these protections in place, and over the next few weeks I'll be working with our team at FWD.us to find ways we can help.

I'm also glad the President believes our country should continue to benefit from "people of great talent coming into the country."

President Trump, you may not be our President, but you are one of the world leaders who, as much as we despise saying it, is being looked up to by God knows how many millions of people. Dont let them down.
Marvel and Square Enix have announced that they are working together to release a new game based on the Avengers. Square Enix studios Crystal Dynamics, are the same developers who were responsible for the highly acclaimed game Rise of the Tomb Raider. In addition, Eidos Montreal who was behind the new Deus Ex game is also going to be partnering up for developing duties.

 YouTube

The recently launched teaser doesnt really give us much information or showcase anything about the actual game; however, it does show that the world is in dire need of the Avengers because of a dark setting that will encourage the Avengers to reassemble. The publishers have not elaborated whether it will be a multi-platform release or an exclusive for consoles. Square Enix elaborates:

The Avengers project is being designed for gamers worldwide and will be packed with all the characters, environments, and iconic moments that have thrilled longtime fans of the franchise. Featuring a completely original story, it will introduce a universe gamers can play in for years to come. More details on The Avengers project and other games will be announced in 2018.

 YouTube

Square Enix and Marvel also said that this game will not be a one-off game as they plan to make this into a franchise which will be multi-year, multi-game partnership.

Its also not just a one-off project. Square and Marvel are joining forces for whats described as a deal of giants.
Bill Gates is often called Harvards most famous dropout. He notably ditched the top university in 1975 to found , and became the worlds richest man.

Looking back, Gates has said he was lucky that computers were a hobby and an obsession of his at a time when they were just starting to change the world.

But speaking on Friday at another Ivy League university, Columbia University, along with fellow billionaire and famous investor Warren Buffett, Gates said that if he were to drop out of college today theres a limited chance he would end up in the computer industry, and likely not in developing operating software for companies. Roughly 1,000 people, mostly students, gathered on the campus to hear the two billionaires speak.

To be clear, Gates, whos now 61, wasnt at Columbia to advocate that students drop out of school. Gates believes in investing in education, and he said that is the No. 1 priority of his foundation in the United States. Nonetheless, responding to a question from a student, he named three areas that he said he found very promising, and where he might pursue a career if he were starting out today. Here they are:

Artificial Intelligence

If he were to go into computer sciences today, Gates said, the area that he thought had the most potential was artificial intelligence. Gates brought up a recent victory by Google DeepMind over the top player in the world at Go, a game some predicted a computer could never master. He called it a remarkable achievement that signaled there is more to come in advancement in artificial intelligence. And he said the research being done in the field now is profound and on the verge of making new breakthroughs. The ability for artificial agents to read and understand material is going to be phenomenal, says Gates. Anything connected with that would be an exciting lifetime career.

Energy Sector

Gates said there is a huge and growing demand for energy thats reliable, cheap, and clean. And Gates said there is no system yet today that can provide enough energy that meets those criteria. Thats why he sees energy as an area of opportunity for innovative minds, he told the audience of mostly university students. The innovations [in energy] will be profound, said Gates. And there are many paths to get to where we need to go

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Buffett, oddly, didnt chime in, but he would probably agree. His conglomerate owns a number of the nations largest utilities and has pledged to spend $30 billion developing alternative energy. Berkshire owns a number of wind farms, and will soon become the largest producer of wind energy in America.

Biotech

Gates said he thinks it is a thrilling time in biology and that developments in the biosciences are moving faster than ever. He said he thought there was potential, and a need for smart innovation, in the fights against obesity, cancer, and depression. Among the most promising advances that Gates mentioned was DNA vaccines. On Donald Trump, Gates said that he was optimistic that the U.S.s policy and spending on vaccines wouldnt change under the new president, despite some comments Trump has made raising concerns about scientifically unproven links between vaccines and autism. I dont think Trump will change the U.S. policy stance on vaccines, Gates said. There may be a commission but the evidence [for the use of vaccines] is unequivocal.

See original article on Fortune.com

More from Fortune.com
Yes, you can transfer your domain to any registrar or hosting company once you have purchased it. Since domain transfers are a manual process, it can take up to 5 days to transfer the domain.

Domains purchased with payment plans are not eligible to transfer until all payments have been made. Please remember that our 30-day money back guarantee is void once a domain has been transferred.

For transfer instructions to GoDaddy, please click here.
By Brenna Hughes Neghaiwi

ZURICH (Reuters) - Bitcoin wallet provider Xapo said it has received conditional approval from Switzerland's financial market watchdog to operate in the country in a regulatory breakthrough for companies that provide safekeeping for the virtual currency.

"After almost two years of substantial effort and investment, Xapo has received conditional approval from the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA) to operate in Switzerland," Xapo CEO Wences Casares said in a blog on the company's website.

The approval depended on several factors, including membership of a "self-regulatory organization", Casares said, but added that the company was optimistic of meeting the conditions and being able to serve non-U.S. customers from Switzerland.

FINMA declined to comment on an individual company's status.

Olga Feldmeier, a former managing partner of Xapo who coordinated the Swiss licensing process for the company, told Reuters that Xapo had been designated a financial intermediary, meaning it will not require a costly banking license.

Wallet providers like Xapo, which was founded in Silicon Valley, store the private keys that allow clients to access their digital currency funds.

While other crypto-currency firms already operate in Switzerland, Xapo's operation as a bitcoin wallet provider had raised questions over whether it required a banking license.

A burgeoning industry surrounding bitcoin - a web-based "crypto-currency" that has no central authority, relying instead on a global network of computers that validate transactions and add new bitcoins to the system - has posed questions for lawmakers and regulators.

Xapo argued it did not accept deposits.

Swiss authorities are eager to secure a leading role for Switzerland while playing catch-up in a rapidly changing financial technology (fintech) landscape.

Bitcoin Suisse operates a network of bitcoin ATMs across the country, as well as an online and in-person brokerage for buying and selling bitcoins. But it does not itself store the private access keys that led to questions about whether Xapo was taking deposits.

Story continues

Switzerland's cabinet in November proposed new light-touch regulations for fintech companies aimed at bolstering business and competitiveness.

The proposals include a fintech license, granted by FINMA, for institutions which are restricted to taking deposits of up to 100 million Swiss francs ($99.9 million) and do not lend.

Xapo is now in the process of joining a self-regulatory organization required under Swiss anti-money laundering regulations to begin operations, Feldmeier said.

(Editing by Adrian Croft)
Alternate Foreign Minister Giorgos Katrougalos met on 27 January with the Prime Minister of Dominica, R. Skerrit.

The Alternate Minister reaffirmed the intention to strengthen the EU's relations with CARICOM, of which Dominica is a member, while also noting the Greek side's interest in expanding bilateral relations.

Mr. Skerrit thanked Mr. Katrougalos for our country's positive stance within the EU, particularly on the issue of waiving Schengen visas for citizens of Dominica, and also noted his country's interest in the future signing of a bilateral agreement in the shipping sector.
(Adds Porter airlines, question of Immigration minister, Vancouver American Airlines employee)

By David Ljunggren and Anna Mehler Paperny

OTTAWA/TORONTO, Jan 28 (Reuters) - Prime Minister Justin Trudeau welcomed those fleeing war and persecution on Saturday even as Canadian airlines said they would turn back U.S.-bound passengers to comply with an immigration ban on people from seven Muslim-majority countries.

A day after U.S. President Donald Trump put a four-month hold on allowing refugees into the United States and temporarily barred travellers from the seven countries, Trudeau said in a tweet: "To those fleeing persecution, terror & war, Canadians will welcome you, regardless of your faith. Diversity is our strength #WelcomeToCanada."

A second pointed tweet, also timed to coincide with outrage over Trump's immigration policy, included an archive photo of Trudeau welcoming a Syrian refugee at a Canadian airport in 2015.

Confusion abounded at airports around the world on Saturday as immigration and customs officials struggled to interpret the new U.S. rules.

While Trudeau was tweeting a welcome to refugees, others on the social media platform were questioning whether Immigration Minister Ahmed Hussen - a Somali-Canadian refugee - would be able to travel to the United States under the new rules.

Hussen's office did not respond to a request for comment.

In Canada, WestJet Airlines said it turned back a passenger bound for the United States on Saturday to comply with an executive order signed by Trump on Friday. WestJet spokeswoman Lauren Stewart said the airline would give full refunds to anyone affected by the order. It did not say which country the passenger had come from.

The order would help protect Americans from terrorist attacks, the president said.

Stewart said WestJet had been informed by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) that the ban did not apply to dual citizens who had passports from countries other than those covered by the ban: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

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"U.S. CBP has confirmed it is the citizenship document they present to enter the country, not the country of where they were born," Stewart wrote in an email.

In Vancouver, an employee at the American Airlines counter said one person traveling on an Iranian passport had been turned away Saturday morning.

Air Canada, the country's other major airline, said it was complying with the order but did not comment on whether it had yet denied travel to any passengers.

"We are required to ensure passengers have the required documents for entry into, or transit the countries they are travelling to," said spokeswoman Isabelle Arthur. "In the case of these nationalities, they are not permitted to enter the U.S."

A spokesman for Porter Airlines said the Toronto-based carrier will be restricting passengers from travelling to the United States from the listed countries until further notice. Porter will waive fees for changing destinations and offer refunds for cancelled trips related to the advisory.

(Reporting by David Ljunggren and Anna Mehler Paperny; Writing by Amran Abocar, Editing by Nick Zieminski and Grant McCool)
In a raging debate from his fans on Twitter, many people have asked Jim Cramer if he is for or against President Donald Trump .

The truth is that he is neither. Cramer cares about the stock market, not politics.

"My agenda? It has always been the same: higher stock prices. That is my true north; because most of you home gamers own stocks and I want you to make money. It's that simple," the " Mad Money " host said.

That's why when Cramer sees Trump's agenda of deregulation, lower corporate taxes and repatriation of foreign assets, he likes it. He thinks it could lead to higher stock prices.











The recent rally in the stock market is directly related to improved fundamentals thanks to a stronger global economy and better employment. However, Cramer was willing to admit the election played a role in the run. The surprising Republican win of a pro-business president and the end of gridlock in Washington did help, Cramer said.

But the proposed U.S-Mexico border wall worries Cramer. The real issue with Mexico isn't the wall, he said, the issue is jobs. The Mexican peso (Exchange: MXN=) is so cheap that it is drawing in corporations that would have otherwise build factories in the U.S.

When NAFTA was passed, the exchange rate was four pesos to every dollar. Now a dollar buys 21 pesos. That gives U.S. corporations a major advantage. That is what Cramer wants addressed if Trump plans to stop companies from shipping jobs south of the border.

"In just one week, the president has upended Washington," Cramer said.

The tiff with Mexico could be a problem for the market. It's not about who pays for the wall. It is about whether Republicans in Congress can say, "Count me out  Mexico is my friend, has been for years."

If that happens, Cramer warned that Trump's whole economic agenda could be derailed and the market will go down.

Ultimately, the issue of building a wall has raised political risk, Cramer said. It has introduced real uncertainty in to stocks, and Trump's agenda has become shaky. It must go away, but Cramer isn't sure how it will, given that Trump campaigned on it and he isn't likely to give up his campaign promises.

Story continues

"It makes more concerned and it should concern you, too, if it isn't resolved in a civil and lasting fashion," Cramer said.

Questions for Cramer?

Call Cramer: 1-800-743-CNBC

Want to take a deep dive into Cramer's world? Hit him up!

Mad Money Twitter - Jim Cramer Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - Vine



Questions, comments, suggestions for the "Mad Money" website? madcap@cnbc.com





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The Bad Axe Destination Imagination program is going international. On March 15, eight students accompanied by 10 family members will travel to Poland to compete in an invitational tournament sponsored by the Poland Destination Imagination program.

Destination Imagination, also know as DI, is a program for students in elementary grades through college.

Currently, Bad Axe is the only school in the Thumb with a DI program. They have 39 students involved, in kindergarten through seventh grade, from 29 different families.

"Destination Imagination is run for the students of Bad Axe Public School, with parent volunteers," said Heather Miles, a second-grade teacher at Bad Axe Public Schools and fundraising coordinator for the program.

DI is not a school function. However, it does involve Bad Axe students, and their families.

"We don't get any funding from Bad Axe Schools," Miles said. "We use their facilities, and it is for the students of the school. But, it's a completely parent volunteer-run program."

There are eight teams within Bad Axe DI. Each team has between two and seven members. In addition, each team has a manager, a volunteer, and an appraiser. The manager oversees the team with the help of a volunteer. The appraiser is, in essence, a judge.

"The students choose to be on a team," Miles said. "Generally, each team is planned based on age or grade."

The idea behind Destination Imagination is for kids to work together to solve a problem, and then present their solution to a group of appraisers. They are judged on creativity and their ability to come up with a solution using a predetermined set of rules. The solution is usually presented as a skit, complete with props constructed by the kids. These are called central challenges.

"Students pick one of seven central challenges," Miles said. "They are given a manual, a rule book or guide book, that tells them the criteria for their challenge; what they have to accomplish. It is very vague, so it can be solved in thousands of different ways. They are told it must include certain things, or can't include certain things. They work on this central challenge for about three months."

In order to solve the challenge, the students must decide how they want to proceed, and then gather any material necessary to help with their presentation.

"Each team, based on the challenge they've selected, has a budget designated by Destination Imagination," Miles said. "It means the kids have to be very mindful of what they can afford."

The challenges have to be solved by the kids themselves. If a parent realizes the idea formulated by the kids won't work, they aren't allowed to let them know. The kids learn by trial and error.

"They have to go through the entire creativity process," Miles said. "They may come to us and ask how to cut a board at a certain angle: We can teach them how to do it using a different board, but they then have to go and cut another one themselves for the project."

Once the teams know what their project is, they have about three months to prepare for the regional competition, which takes place in Mount Pleasant. The top three teams in each age group advance to the state tournament, on the campus of Central Michigan University in Mount Pleasant. Winners at the state level travel to Tennessee in May to take part in the global competition.

Bad Axe Destination Imagination has advanced one team to the global tournament in 2017.

At each tournament, the teams also are required to do what's called an instant challenge.

"That's something they prepare for in their team-building skills," Miles said. "But they don't know what will be put before them until they're actually in the room."

The instant challenge is generally in the same category, such as fine art, scientific, technical, etc., as their central challenge, but they only have a short time to prepare for it.

"The kids have to be really quick on their feet," Miles said. "Sometimes they're asked to build something. Sometimes they're asked to give a presentation, a skit. And, they're scored on it. While they're coming up with the solution, there is a panel of appraisers, three to five adults, hovering around, looking over their shoulder and listening in. So, they can't be intimidated. The appraisers are looking at how they work as a team, whether or not they're open to each other's ideas ... building from each other's suggestions. They're scored on teamwork, as much as the final product."

At the beginning of each school year, the coordinators of Destination Imagination send out information to the students at Bad Axe Schools. Everyone is invited to become part of Bad Axe DI.

Bad Axe Destination Imagination holds a number of fundraisers throughout the year to help offset fees and provide money for each team to use for itsr central challenge. The need for volunteers, appraisers, and donations is ongoing.

"The Michigan Destination Imagination program was invited to have teams participate in the Poland trip," Miles said. "When the regional coordinators got together, there was a call for Bad Axe DI to go to Poland. The Bad Axe students have gotten a reputation for having fabulous interpersonal skills within Destination Imagination ... kind and helpful wherever they go. The invitation came, and as parents, we all agreed this was something we wanted our students to participate in ... knowing full well the majority of the cost would have to be covered by the parents."

There are two teams traveling to Poland.

"They are all fifth grade through seventh grade," Miles said. "Each kid is going with at least one family member. While they're there, they aren't going to do their central challenge, so we don't have to haul all their stuff over there. Instead, they're doing what's called an extreme instant challenge. They will be given a problem and have 24 hours to come up with a solution. There's also going to be a buddy challenge, where they will be paired with another team that may or may not speak English, and given a problem to solve. So, they will have to work through language and cultural barriers."

For the trip to Poland a special fundraiser was held recently  a traditional Polish Dinner, which took place at Bad Axe Middle School. More than 150 people attended.

The coordinator for Bad Axe Destination Imagination is Rikkii Clarent. She has been involved with the Bad Axe DI since its inception, and is thrilled that the students have shown the ingenuity and skill to receive the invitation.

"The trip will provide once in a lifetime experiences for our students," Clarent said. "They will learn hands-on problem solving skills with international students. They will also learn valuable history and cultural lessons by visiting a Polish school, a concentration camp, and various museums, World War II monuments, and Polish communities. Participation in the Poland DI International Tournament is a true honor. The students will not only represent their school and community, but also their state and country. I'm confident they will be wonderful young ambassadors who will demonstrate great respect, skills, and a willingness to learn. I hope they return with an even deeper appreciation for the daily gifts that we all tend to take for granted, and an eagerness to share their experiences with others."

In advance of their trip, the team members of Bad Axe DI are scheduled to give a presentation at 7 p.m. April 27 at Bad Axe Area District Library. It will be part of the Neighbors on the Go series.
UPPER THUMB  Michigan had homeland security long before the federal department was formed.

The states homeland security started 100 years ago during World War I. On April 19, 1916, the Michigan State Troops Permanent Force of mounted units and dismounted units was created and named the Michigan State Constabulary. That was the forerunner of the current Michigan State Police (MSP).

As part of the centennial celebration of the agency, the look of some of the familiar MSP items has changed to commemorate the anniversary. Troopers are once again wearing round doughboy-style hats and there are now some black and gold patrol cruisers to go along with the standard MSP blue ones.

We have one of the new cruisers assigned to our post. Its black and gold look is different, but the inside is exactly the same as the other units, said Michigan State Police-Caro Post Commander F/Lt. Todd Mapes. Its being used for patrols just like the other ones.

Mapes said he expects the state to eventually keep the traditional MSP blue of its vehicles.

Michigan State Troops Permanent Force of mounted units and dismounted units was an emergency service that was used during World War I as a replacement for the National Guard for domestic security.

The mounted aspect of the original name of the unit meant riding horses and dismounted meant using motor vehicles. In fact, before the MSP relocated to its 7,546-square foot facility on M-24 in 2000, the former post that was torn down on Millwood Street started out as a carriage factory and stable in the 1900s.

Public Act 53 of 1917 authored by then Gov. Albert Sleeper, who was originally from Caseville, and was chairman of the War Preparedness Board created the constabulary for domestic security.

It was the constabularys job to guard war production facilities and also to enforce the liquor trafficking laws back during Prohibition.

Because Sleeper was impressed with the constabularys performance, he and lawmakers permanently established the Department of Michigan State Police with P.A. 26 on March 27, 1919.

Back then, the fledgling MSP had four mounted troops who were each assigned responsibilities for a section of the state. They had full authority to enforce traffic, conduct criminal investigation, enforce prohibition laws, and patrol rural areas.

Then in 1921, the MSP became the uniform division of the Department of Public Safety, and also assumed the duties of the state oil inspector, state fire marshal, transferring prison inmates, and the prohibition section of the Food and Drug Department, according to the MSP history.

Another change in honor of the centennial is the style of hats troopers wear. Instead of the traditional bill-brimmed hat, troopers are wearing a round hat. They are called campaign hats. There are a lot of highway patrols in other states that wear that style of hat, Mapes said. We are all wearing them for the 100th-year anniversary.

Mapes said he is unsure if wearing the campaign hats will continue to be part of a troopers uniform or if the agency will go back to the standard cap-style hat when the anniversary celebration is over.

When the constabulary started, its headquarters was in a portable wooden barracks on 90 acres of the Michigan Agricultural Colleges (Michigan State University) poultry research farm.

From 1935 to 1941, major building projects were done to replace the hodge-podge rented and temporary MSP barracks. To do that, grant money from the depression-era Works Progress Administrator was used.

It is an honor to be part of the MSP during this time, and be a commander, Mapes said. There is a lot of tradition in the MSP and Im proud to be part of it.
Donald Trump thinks torture works, but hes going to let Mattis decide US policy

President Donald Trump asserted again Friday that torture works, but said he will defer to Defense Secretary James Mattis , who does not believe in the tactic.



"(Mattis) will override because I'm giving him that power. ... I'm going to rely on him," Trump said in a joint White House press conference with British Prime Minister Theresa May.

"I happen to feel that it does work ... but I am going with our leaders."

The Senate passed a ban on torture in 2015, but Trump's public comments have led to concerns that he may try to bring it back. In an ABC News interview this week, Trump said he believes torture "absolutely" works.



In his Senate confirmation hearing, Mattis said he opposed the use of torture. Trump once quoted Mattis as saying, "give me a pack of cigarettes and a couple of beers and I do better with that than I do with torture."

May previously suggested that British intelligence could stop working with American intelligence if the U.S. reinstated the practice.





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Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa is urging the Air Force to consider a "buddy system" for trainees at Joint Base San Antonio in Texas -- having them travel in pairs as a way to reduce the risk of sexual assault.

Ernst, who retired from the National Guard after 23 years and served in combat, said she was surprised that the Air Force is "the only service that did not require such a system for all of its students in training status," she said in a letter addressed to Air Force Brig. Gen. Heather L. Pringle, commander of the 502nd Air Base Wing.

"Specifically, the Air Force does not require students in training status on JBSA-Ft. Sam Houston or JBSA-Randolph to travel in a buddy pair," the Iowa Republican said. "This is disappointing, as the buddy pair system not only can reduce vulnerabilities for sexual assault, but also helps young service members make better decisions.

"When I deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom as a captain, all service members on our base were required to travel in pairs, including myself," Ernst said Jan. 25.

Capt. Jose Davis, spokesman for Air Education and Training Command, the service's leading command for basic trainees, on Friday told Military.com it is "aware of Senator Ernst's letter."

"We are in coordination with 2nd Air Force officials, the organization responsible for overseeing basic military and non-flying technical training for the Air Force, to evaluate what we have in place equivalent or not to the buddy pair system expressed in the letter," Davis said in an email statement.

"We take great measures to ensure a wingmanship culture in our basic military training. Today's trainees are assigned a wingman on day zero of training. If one trainee needs to go anywhere, his or her wingman is required to accompany the trainee.

"Additionally, each Airman carries a 'wingman card' on their person at all times. On the card, it has the name of their wingman as well as emergency phone numbers to the trainee/student hotline and their sexual assault response coordinator. Safety of our Airmen is always a top priority," Davis said.

The Army, Navy and Marine Corps have mentorship programs that remind recruits and active-duty service members to watch each other's backs when in off-duty situations and when deployed.

Ernst's letter stemmed from her visit to Fort Sam Houston in November, which she said focused "on investigating military sexual assault."

The senator's letter did not specifically mention Lackland Air Force Base, part of Joint Base San Antonio, where more than 30 female trainees were sexually assaulted by male drill instructors dating back to 2009. By 2014, at least 28 Military Training Instructors, or MTIs, had been charged or convicted of sexual assault and other crimes linked to the scandal, according to Air Force Times.

Retired Air Force Col. Don Christensen, a former chief prosecutor in the Air Force, said Ernst's efforts speak to a larger problem.

"If our recruits have to travel in pairs to avoid being sexually assaulted, we have a major problem," Christensen, now the president of the advocacy group Protect Our Defenders, said in a statement Friday.

"A service member should be able to walk on a military base by themselves without the fear of being sexually assaulted. That should be the standard.

"It's clear that Senator Ernst sees the current system is failing our troops. We call on her to join with Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and many of her Republican colleagues in supporting fundamental reform to fix the broken military justice system," he said.

Both Ernst and Gillibrand, a Democrat from New York, have co-sponsored bills in Congress to combat sexual assault in the military.

"As we continue to see sexual assault plague institutions around the country, it is my hope that the military will continue to take concrete steps to improve and become a leading example for how to effectively curb this problem," Ernst said in her letter to Pringle.

"Therefore, I request that you consider making a buddy pair system mandatory for all Air Force personnel in a training status on Joint Base San Antonio."

-- Oriana Pawlyk can be reached at oriana.pawlyk@military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @Oriana0214.
A new executive order issued by President Donald Trump on Friday that temporarily halts the entrance of most refugees into the U.S. while indefinitely ending the entrance of refugees from Syria may impact a program that brings to the U.S. Iraqis and Afghans who have served with American forces as interpreters.

The executive order, signed Friday evening, puts at least a 120-day hold on new refugees from all countries while officials conduct a review of the refugee screening process. A separate rule also puts a 90-day hold on the entrance of all immigrants from a series of countries considered particularly high-risk, including Iraq. When the refugee program restarts, the order states, the U.S. will accept only 50,000 refugees annually, down from the current 110,000.

Currently, only one percent of the world's 19.5 million refugees are ever resettled, according to Catholic Social Services, a nonprofit that assists the U.S. government with refugees.

Interpreters who work for U.S. forces are able to apply for resettlement in the U.S. under a Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program because they are often targeted for assassination due to their association with the U.S. The SIV program in Afghanistan is still accepting new applicants, according to the State Department, while a near identical program existed in Iraq until it was sunset for new applicants last April.

About 500 Iraqi applicants and their families and about 13,000 Afghan applicants and their families are still in the SIV pipeline awaiting final approval, officials with State Department said. The application for resettlement through SIV can take up to three years, according to SIV advocates, in part because SIV refugees receive vetting from every U.S. intelligence agency, they said.

To date, more than 34,000 Afghans and 20,000 Iraqis have received immigration benefits from SIV programs, State Department officials said. The department issued 12,086 SIVs to Afghan interpreters and their families in fiscal 2016, and 2,250 to Iraqis.

State Department officials declined to speculate about the impact any potential U.S. government policy change may have on Iraqi or Afghan refugees. But an official with No One Left Behind, a veteran-run nonprofit that helps former interpreters resettle in the U.S., said it is not clear whether Afghan and Iraqi applicants will be affected by the rule.

Officials with No One Left Behind said they are advocating for SIV applicants to be exempted from the new rule, said Jason Gorey, a veteran and the organization's chief operating officer.

A clause in the new rule allows for exclusions on a case-by-case basis "when in the national interest," when admitting the person is part of a prior international agreement, or if the person is "already in transit and denying admission would cause undue hardship."

"When [he was] president-elect, Trump said that 'extreme vetting' is the approach that he's likely to take for these individuals," Gorey said. "Our message is that the SIV program already includes extreme vetting. They are the most thoroughly vetted individuals to come to our country -- period."

The SIV program has bipartisan support, Gorey said, adding that the fact it's at risk as part of the executive order is likely an oversight.

"I don't think that it's malice or even intentional in any way on the Trump administration," he said. "This is sort of an in-the-weeds detail that this sort of small population of interpreters that clearly everyone supports coming to America is going to get caught up in this larger executive order."

Gorey said there are applicants who have U.S. visas in hand but are not yet in country who may be delayed. He said because the applicants are under threat, lives could be lost as the result of any delay.

"The reason the SIV process exists is that these people are being actively hunted," he said. "And I have no doubt that, especially if it goes beyond 120 days, it will cost lives."

-- Amy Bushatz can be reached at amy.bushatz@military.com.
Deer gather at a depot used to store pipes for Transcanada Corp's planned Keystone XL oil pipeline in Gascoyne, North Dakota, January 25, 2017. REUTERS/Terray Sylvester

By Devika Krishna Kumar and Catherine Ngai

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Investors have rushed back into North American pipelines after U.S. President Donald Trump revived growth prospects in a sector that struggled to cope with a two-year oil price slump and strident opposition from environmental and Native American activists.

Investor confidence in the industry was shaken last year when the administration of former President Barack Obama halted the $3.8 billion Dakota Access Pipeline, just as Energy Transfer Partners (ETP.N) had nearly finished building it. Protesters have rallied for months against plans to route the Dakota Access pipeline under a lake near the Standing Rock Sioux reservation in North Dakota, saying it threatened water resources and sacred Native American sites.

A year earlier, Obama rejected TransCanada Corp's (TRP.TO) C$8 billion ($6.08 billion) Keystone XL project, which would ship oil from Canada to U.S. refiners.

Trump sought to smooth the way for both projects with executive orders on Tuesday as he made good on campaign promises to drive infrastructure investment throughout the world's largest economy.

The orders sparked a rally in indices that track pipeline companies to a more than 14-month high.

The shares of firms that build the pipelines and storage tanks such as Magellan Midstream Partners (MMP.N) and Enterprise Products Partners (EPD.N) have rallied as much as 9 percent in the days following Trump's orders.

Those gains came on top of a rally of about 13 percent in these firms since Trump's surprise election victory on Nov. 8.

"Energy companies can invest more confidently over the next four years with less concern over federal delays," said Libby Toudouze, a portfolio manager at Cushing Asset Management. The firm manages around $2.7 billion of investments in pipeline and energy transport and storage firms.

"I do think we are going to see a good consistent flow of new investors coming into this (pipeline) space for next 3-5 years."

Story continues

The top picks for investors include Valero Energy Partners LP (VLP.N), Phillips 66 Partners LP (PSXP.N) and MPLX LP (MPLX.N).

Energy infrastructure companies, once a darling of the industry, had languished in 2015 and early 2016 as oil prices plummeted to multiyear lows.

These firms, often structured as master limited partnerships (MLPs), are typically the vehicles used by investors to gain exposure to the pipeline industry.

MLPs are a tax-exempt corporate structures that pay out profit to investors in dividend-style distributions. Investors have funneled billions of dollars into the infrastructure industry through them since the shale boom began.

BLISTERING RALLY

The Alerian MLP index (.AMZ), which tracks a number of pipeline firms including Magellan, Enterprise, Energy Transfer Partners and Plains All American Pipeline LP (PAA.N), has risen more than 17 percent since Trump's election, including a 6 percent rally this week to the highest level since November 2015.

The pipeline sector has outperformed both oil and gas producers (.SPLRCOILP) and the S&P 500 index (.SPX), which have risen about 13 percent and 7.5 percent, respectively, since the U.S. election.

"You don't have to take a lot of risk in the MLP space at this point to make outsized returns ... so it's an interesting time and a unique opportunity in the MLP space," said Matt Sallee, a portfolio manager at Tortoise Capital.

The Alerian index rose 9 percent in 2016 as oil prices rose, OPEC and non-OPEC exporters announced supply cuts, and on Trump's election. That came after a crash of more than a third in 2015.

Mutual and exchange traded funds' investment in MLPs crashed to $3.8 billion in 2015 before recovering to about $6.2 billion last year, according to Morningstar.

The revival in U.S. shale activity sparked by the recovery in oil prices has also given pipeline companies a boost and opened the way to further development. Significant challenges remain - activists plan to take their fight to the courts on a state-by-state basis, which could bog down future developments.

But for now, investors see room for the value of pipeline firms to go higher.

"We think drilling is going to expand in the U.S. and will need plenty of new infrastructure, particularly in the Permian Basin," said Jay Hatfield, portfolio manager of the InfraCap MLP ETF. MLPs were around 60 percent undervalued compared with BBB bonds which usually fetch the same yield, he added.

Already, pipeline companies such as Plains All American have announced large deals and expansions in the Permian, the biggest shale play in the United States.

"Production is getting back to the growth mode," said Toudouze, "so we need to have the infrastructure and these are the companies that are going to build it."

(Reporting by Devika Krishna Kumar and Catherine Ngai in New York; Editing by Simon Webb and Matthew Lewis)
Close

Comedian, director, and screenwriter Jordan Peele's horror film "Get Out" debuted at Sundance on Monday, Jan. 23. Reception to the film was positive, and viewers appreciated the approach Peele used to tackle sensitive issues such as race in his latest film.

According to Vulture, the horror film "Get Out" is about Chris (Daniel Kaluuya, "Skins"), a black man who meets the liberal parents of his white girlfriend Rose (Allison Williams, "Girls") for the first time. When Jordan Peele introduced the movie at Sundance, he shared that he wrote "Get Out" because he wanted to create his "favorite movie that doesn't exist." He also "very quickly realized it's a movie no one will ever make."

Horror films have long been used to explore "gender stereotypes and social fears," but one trope doesn't change: the lone black character in every film almost always dies first. "Get Out" already subverts this tired old trope by making the protagonist a black character.

The Vulture review states that "Get Out" is "one of the sharpest commentaries" that dares to show "what it's like to be black in a white world." As Chris and Rose pack for their trip to meet the latter's parents, she assures Chris that her parents will like him. The catch is, Rose hasn't told her parents that Chris is black.

When they meet Chris, Missy (Catherine Keener, "Being John Malkovich") and Dean (Bradley Whitford, "The West Wing") act welcoming, but things take a dark turn the longer the couple stays with Rose's parents.

Meanwhile, The AV Club also like Peele's "Get Out," and even described it as a "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner" and "Stepford Wives" "mashup," which also gives clues as to the film's plot. The AV Club concluded that "Get Out" perfectly portrays itself "as a gauntlet of social horror that it almost doesn't need its more traditional thriller elements."

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By John Irish PARIS (Reuters) - France, Germany and Luxembourg voiced disquiet on Saturday over U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to limit immigration and refugees from some Muslim countries, with Berlin and Paris also reaffirming a firm line on Russian sanctions. Speaking at a joint news conference in Paris with his German counterpart Sigmar Gabriel, French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault said many of Trump's decisions worried the two U.S. allies, including new immigration restrictions. Trump on Friday signed an executive order that will curb immigration and refugees from some Muslim-majority countries and he separately said he wanted the United States to give priority to Syrian Christians fleeing the civil war there. "This can only worry us, but there are many subjects that worry us," Ayrault said, adding that he would soon invite his future American counterpart Rex Tillerson to Paris to explain Europe's interests, values and vision of the world. "Welcoming refugees who flee war and oppression is part of our duty," Ayrault said. Germany has taken in more than one million refugees and migrants, mainly from the Middle East, since 2015. Although traditionally open to asylum seekers, France has taken in far fewer refugees than Germany since the migrant crisis erupted. Some in the French government, mostly ex-premier Manuel Valls, criticising Berlin's open-door policy, as has Trump. "The United States is a country where Christian traditions have an important meaning. Loving your neighbour is a major Christian value, and that includes helping people," said Germany's Gabriel, who was on his first trip abroad since his nomination as foreign minister. "I think that is what unites us in the West, and I think that is what we want to make clear to the Americans." Luxembourg Foreign Minister Jean Asselborn said Trump's order would have negative consequences. "The American president is dividing the Muslim world into good and evil with this," Asselborn told the Tagesspiegel German newspaper. "The decision is also bad for Europe because it will increase the Muslim world's mistrust and hatred of the West." The two countries also reiterated their position on Russian sanctions, saying they could only be lifted if progress was made in the peace process for eastern Ukraine, where a pro-Russian separatist insurgency began in 2014. They joined British Prime Minister Theresa May in cautioning Trump against premature moves on the issue. "Let's not forget there was a war, that Russia sought to take over parts of Ukraine," Ayrault said. Trump said on Friday he was only in the early stages of considering whether to lift U.S. sanctions on Russia, but insisted he wanted to follow through on his campaign pledge to pursue better relations with Russia. The French and German ministers also said the United Nations remained the best framework to lead peace talks about Syria in the aftermath of Russian-led efforts in the Kazakh capital Astana that some diplomats say might undermine the UN process. Separately, Germany and France are also continuing to work on creating a joint tactical airlift pool of Lockheed Martin Corp C-130J military transport planes, a spokesman for the German defence ministry said on Saturday. He could not confirm a report in Der Spiegel news magazine that the two countries expected to complete work on the deal and present it to U.S. Defense Secretary James Mattis at a meeting of NATO defence ministers in Brussels next month. The magazine said German Defence Minister Ursula von der Leyen hoped to present the joint airlift as evidence of Germany's willingness to contribute more to NATO. Trump has criticised many European countries for not meeting a NATO target of spending 2 percent of gross domestic product on defence. (Additional reporting by Andrea Shalal in Berlin; writing by Michel Rose; editing by Mark Heinrich and Dominic Evans)
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features-2 Vibrant Gujarat 2017: Inaugural Session The Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit which started in 2003 to rekindle the pace of investments in the state has since, established itself as one of the most important international business events in the country.
The chronicle of a life split between urban Manhattan and rural Montana.
Education

Montgomery County Community College will present the spring installment of the interview/talk show program Issues and Insights April 20 from 12:30 to 2 p.m. in Science Center room 214, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. The programs will be simulcast to the Colleges West Campus in South Hall room 216, 101 College Drive, Pottstown. Dr. Kolsky will offer a humorous presentation, Carrots, Sticks and Politics: A State of the Nation and the World Message. In this speech, he will provide his interpretation of domestic and international politics and then welcome questions from the audience for discussion. Issues and Insights, is free and open to the public. For information, contact Dr. Thomas Kolsky, professor of political science, at 215-641-6380 or tkolsky@mc3.edu.

Montgomery County Community Colleges STEM Scholars Program will host a STEM Jam! open house April 25 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the Advanced Technology Center at the Colleges Central Campus, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. The drop-in event is designed for students interested in learning more about careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Activities will include STEM program information and career advising, STEM speakers throughout the day from industry and academia, micro-helicopter and robotics competitive obstacle courses and demonstrations and static models of STEM student and faculty work. For more information about STEM Jam! or STEM programs at MCCC, contact William Brownlowe at wbrownlowe@mc3.edu or 215-641-6644, or Robin Zuhlke at 215-619-7440 or rzuhlke@mc3.edu.

Temple Ambler, located at 580 Meetinghouse Road, presents the following events:

International Club Global Bazaar April 15 from 5 to 8 p.m. The Ambler Campus International Club invites all students, faculty, staff and the community to celebrate a multitude of diverse cultures, which will be showcased at the organizations Global Bazaar. This family friendly event will highlight cultural traditions and celebrations in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, South American, North America and Africa through music, entertainment, food and informative displays developed and presented by students at the Ambler Campus. Young visitors will be provided with passports, which they may get stamped at each country they visit. Prizes will be awarded to world travelers who talk to cultural representatives, answer questions about the countries theyve visited and take part in fun-filled activities designed to help them learn about the rich diversity of cultures found throughout the world. Refreshments will be served. The event is free. For more information, call 267-468-8108 or e-mail tuc36466@temple.edu.

EarthFest 2011 April 29 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. More than 75 exhibitors, including the Philadelphia Zoo, The Franklin Institute, the Academy of Natural Sciences, the Elmwood Park Zoo and the Insectarium, will take part in EarthFest 2011. School students of all ages are invited to attend and develop displays of their own. EarthFest partner the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society also offers its Kids Grow Expo, featuring the Junior Flower Show, as part of the event. For more information, call 267-468-8108 or e-mail duffyj@temple.edu.

Annual Spring Plant Sale May 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The plant sale  an Ambler Campus tradition dating back to the early 1900s  will feature woody plants and perennials in portable sizes, hardy trees, shrubs, and vines, native plants that are attractive to wildlife, herbs, and hanging baskets. There will also be numerous special plants for sale to highlight Amblers special anniversary year. Garden books and garden tools will also be available for sale. Students, staff, and volunteers from the Department of Landscape Architecture and Horticulture and the Ambler Arboretum Advisory Committee will be available to answer questions. All proceeds from the Spring Plant Sale will support the Ambler Arboretum Fund and the Pi Alpha Xi National Honor Society. Information: 267-468-8001 or judy.shatz@temple.edu. Learn more at www.ambler.temple.edu/anniversary.

June Homecoming/Louise Bush-Brown Garden Dedication June 5 from 12:30 to 2 p.m. (June Homecoming), Bright Hall Lounge; 2 p.m. (Garden Dedication), Ambler Campus Formal Perennial Gardens. Tickets  June Homecoming: Participant  $18 per person; Sustainer  $25 per person; Benefactor  $40 per person. The 2011 June Homecoming, sponsored by the School of Environmental Design Alumni Association, will include the Alumni Association annual meeting and luncheon. June Homecoming will be followed by the formal dedication of Temple University Amblers Formal Perennial Gardens as the Louise Bush-Brown Formal Gardens. During this 100th anniversary of the campus, Temple University Ambler and the Ambler Arboretum of the Temple University is honoring Louise Bush-Browns many contributions to the history of the campus by formally dedicating the gardens in her honor. During the program, campus Executive William Parshall will welcome guests, Ambler Arboretum Director Jenny Rose Carey will speak about the Bush-Browns and the history of the garden, and an official ribbon cutting will be held for the Louise Bush-Brown Formal Garden. Following the ribbon cutting, guests are invited to take a tour of the gardens, which will wend their way to the Campus Greenhouse for the School of Environmental Designs annual Plant Auction. Information (Garden Dedication): 267-468-8001 or judy.shatz@temple.edu. Information (June Homecoming): 215-482-0722. Learn more at www.ambler.temple.edu/anniversary.

Northview Garden Tour and Fundraiser for the Ambler Arboretum June 12 from noon to 5 p.m. Call for reservations. Tickets: $15 per person or $20 at the door. In addition to the gardens of the Ambler Arboretum of Temple University, Arboretum Director Jenny Rose Carey has a garden oasis all her own right in Ambler  Northview. Visitors will have the opportunity to take self-guided tours throughout the many gardens, where garden experts will be available to answer questions about the various designs. The Ambler Keystone Chapter of the Womans National Farm and Garden Association will also provide tea and refreshments. All proceeds from the tours will support the Ambler Arboretum of Temple University. Information or to register: 267-468-8001 or judy.shatz@temple.edu. Learn more at www.ambler.temple.edu/anniversary.

The Senior Adult Activities Center of Montgomery County, 536 George Street, Norristown, will hold the following events:

SAAC Adult Day Care, an alternative to Nursing Home Care is available  for information call 610-275-1960

Volunteers are needed for Meals on Wheels Program (call the number above)

SAACs Fifth Avenue Boutique opens Monday through Friday from 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Exercise with Theresa will be held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 1 p.m.

Dance class is held every Monday at 10 a.m.

Tai Chi is held every Monday at 10 a.m.

Yoga is held every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m.

Line Dancing is held every Thursday at 10:30 a.m.

Dancing with Joan is held every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m.

Sculpture Class is held Wednesdays from 2 to 3:30 p.m.

Why Should I Learn Spanish? will be held Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.

Generations On-Line computer classes for seniors will be held Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.  4 p.m.  computers are available during those hours.

Health Living will be held every Tuesday at 1 p.m.

Boomer U will hold the following events. Boomer U is located at 45 Forest Avenue, Ambler. Registration & payment is required for all events: 215-619-8863.

Pilates Class is held Wednesdays and Fridays at 9:30 a.m. First class is free; please bring a mat. For information call 610-291-5376.

Blue Bell School of Dance, 921 Penllyn Blue Bell Pike, Blue Bell, hosts Argentine Tango Classes and a Milonga dance party every Friday evening. Lessons start at 8:30 p.m. followed by dancing at 9:30 p.m. Andrew Conway, master Argentine Tango dancer, instructor and performer and his partner Linda Chase will instruct. All levels welcome and no partner is needed. Refreshments will be served. Fee is $12 per person and includes lesson and dancing. Information: 215-634-1101 or www.amoretango.com.

The Montgomery Hospital Medical Center will offer the following classes:

Childbirth Education Class- all parents are invited to participate, including those who are delivering at

other hospitals. For more information on maternity services or classes, call 610-270-2020.

CPR and First Aid Courses are offered for beginners to experiences health care providers. Call 610-270-2313.

The Ambler SAAC (Senior Adult Activities Center), located at 45 Forest Ave in Ambler will hold the following events:

Tai Chi every Monday and Thursday at 11 a.m.

Yoga is every Tuesday at 1 p.m. and Friday at 10:30 a.m.

Strength and balance training every Wednesday at 10 a.m.

Armchair Aerobics is held every Monday at 10 a.m.

Gourmet Weight Wise every Thursday at 12:30.

Fitness Center and Pool Room open daily 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

The Diabetes Education Center will offer day and evening classes each month. Health insurance pays for diabetes education classes. Preregistration is required. Call 610-270-2301.

For Kids & Families

The Ambler Kiwanis Club will host its annual Easter Egg Hunt April 26 at 10 a.m. in Ambler Borough Park, located just off of the intersection of Hendricks Street and Valley Brook Road. Members of the Wissahickon Key Club will assist Kiwanians in hiding thousands of wrapped chocolate eggs in a designated area of the park. Also hidden will be plastic colored eggs, which are redeemed for prizes. Elementary school children are separated by age.

Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation will hold its 21st annual Storybook Egg-Stravaganza April 15 fom 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Upper Dublin Township Building. Toddlers and preschoolers love this annual event where photo opportunities with favorite friends abound! Treasures are collected from UDP&Rs assortment of lifesize cutouts of favorite cartoon characters from Disney, Sesame Street, Nickelodeon and other well-known animation. Children can have their picture taken with Bugsy OHare; bring your own camera. And dont forget a basket for goodies! $7 for UD residents; $12 for non-residents. Pre-register at 215-643-1600 ext. 3443.

Splash Week is a free week-long program that teaches children and families basic swimming skills and water safety practices. All YMCA branches will host multiple classes each day from April 11 to 15. For more information, contact the Ambler Area YMCA at 215-628-9950.

Healthy Kids Day is April 16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The day is filled with fun, engaging and artistic activities that cultivate healthy living as part of the YMCAs larger efforts to help more kids and families become physically active. All activities are free and open to the community. For more information, contact the Ambler YMCA at 215-628-9950. No reservation is required.

The Ambler Area YMCA has added several new programs for area youngsters. Classes are held late afternoons or evenings on various weekdays. For more information, visit philaymca.org or call 215-628-9950.

Basic Beading: Ages: 10+. Wednesdays 7 to 7:45 p.m. This class will teach you the fundamentals of wiring and stringing along with how color can be used to create unique and vibrant beadwork design. You will create various jewelry including earrings, bracelets, charm pendants and much more! Supplies will be provided. Bringing your own jewelry pliers or tools would be a plus.

Messin with the Masters: Ages: 8-12. Thursdays 7 to 7:45 p.m. Learn about some of the worlds greatest artists. You will be inspired to create your own Starry Night with oil pastels and tempera paints, a tissue paper painted Monet garden, a Picasso head using scraps of paper, a Georgia OKeeffe clay flower bowl and a Rousseau jungle collage.

Super Scientist: Ages: 5-7. Mondays 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. Well be concocting chemistry experiments such as making slime, mixing potions and having fun with magnet magic. Your budding little scientist will enhance his/her creative thinking and motor skills and to top it off will learn that science can be serious fun.

Wacky Junk Art: Ages: 8-12. Thursdays 6 to 6:45 p.m. Why throw it away! Instead join us to make household junk into aliens from outer space, wacky specs, crazy hats, body masks or a recycled train.

Globe Trotters: Ages: 4-6. Tuesdays 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. Youre never too young to start thinking globally. Each week, we explore a new country through crafts, games, music, stories and even some taste-testing. A perfect introduction to our great big world!

Crazy about Crafts: Ages: 5-7, Thursdays 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. Let your childs creative juices flow with our fun arts and crafts projects each week. Fine motor skills and creative thinking skills will be enhanced with this crafty class.

Come out and join the Ambler Area YMCAs Teen and Junior Leaders Club. Participants are given the freedom to plan community service projects year round and truly make a difference in the lives of people in need. Those in Teen and Junior Leaders also attend leadership retreats all along the East Coast three times a year and meet other leaders who are doing the same great work in their respective areas. Dont miss out on this inspiring opportunity. Teen Leaders, ages 13-17, meet every Wednesday from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Junior Leaders, ages 10-12, will begin in the spring and will meet every Monday. For more information, contact Mike Miles, Teen Director, 215- 628-9950 x 1540 or mmiles@philaymca.org.

Did you know that the new Ambler Area YMCA holds childrens birthday parties at its site for members and non members as well. The Ambler Y does all the work from start to finish and birthday parties include a personalized cake, ice cream, beverage and paper products. Parties are held on Saturday and Sunday afternoons and include two party hosts to lead activities, set-up, clean-up and assist with serving. You can have a Splash Party for children ages six to 12 in the new zero depth entry pool with water slide and spray fountains. Up to 25 children have exclusive use of the pool area with 30 minutes in the party room. Sports Parties are offered for kids ages four to 12 with age appropriate activities and games, and sports such as floor hockey, soccer, basketball or dodge ball. Children ages three to five years of age will enjoy parties in the Family Active Center with use of the Moon Bounce and organized activities, such as parachute play and songs. For information, 215-628-9950 ext. 1583.

Community Events at the Ambler Y:

-YAchievers YMCA Achievers is a developmentally based, extracurricular, educational and team mentoring program designed to help students in grades five through 12 prepare for fulfilled livelihoods in college and beyond. Participation is free and all students in this program receive a free YMCA membership. Registration for the 2009 program begins now. You do not need to be a YMCA member to utilize these special services. Call 215-628-9950 to register.

Greater Norristown Art Leagues Childrens Weeklong Summer Art Camps will be held at 800 West Germantown Pike in East Norriton, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday throughout the summer. The cost per session is $125 per student for ages 6 and up. Jo Ann Cooksey Bono teaches an introduction to basic drawing skills and techniques from 10 a.m. until the lunch break each day. In the afternoon sessions, Mary Vogel Lozinak involves the students in hands on projects such as collage, papermaking, T-shirt printing, 3D design and sculpy clay. Fridays Graduation Day includes an art show, awards ceremony and reception for parents, siblings, grandparents and friends. All supplies are included. Students provide their own lunch. A refrigerator is available and the building is air-conditioned. This is the 15th year to run this successful program. Both instructors are professional artists with State Police and Child Abuse Clearances. To register, call Jo Ann at 610-279-1008, or register on-line at www.gnal.org.

Health

Dresher Physical Therapy is hosting an interactive seminar discussing its Golf Assessment Progam April 30 from 10 a.m. to noon at Dresher Physical Therapy, 1075 Virginia Drive, Suite 200, Fort Washington. Physical therapist Chris Miller, certified through the Titleist Performance Institute, will discuss why your body may be the most important piece of golf equipment you invest in and how this can drastically improve your game. $10 in advance; $15 at the door. Call 215-619-4545 to reserve your spot.

The Chestnut Hill Center for Enrichment, Center on the Hill and Chestnut Hill Hospital will host a Senior Health and Resource Fair April 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Chestnut Hill Presbyterian Church, 8855 Germantown Ave. The event is free. For more information, call 215-248-0180 or e-mail chseniors@cavtel.net.

The Ambler Senior Adult Activities Center is hosting Help Yourself to Health, a new six-week workshop for older adults with ongoing health conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure, anxiety, heart disease and others. The free workshop will take place at the Ambler Senior Adult Activities Center, 45 Forest Ave. on six Thursdays, May 12 through June 16 from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Although there is no charge to participate, registration is required. To register, call 215-619-8863.

The Ambler Senior Adult Activities Center is sponsoring an eight-week program called A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls. Presented by the Montgomery County Health Department, this workshop will be held on Tuesdays, May 3 to June 21 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Ambler Center, 45 Forest Ave. If you pre-register by April 27, the fee is only $5! Registration at the first class is $10. (Checks should be payable to SAAC and will benefit our Meals on Wheels program that serves homebound seniors.) A workbook will be provided and refreshments will be served. Call 215-619-8863 to register or for more information.

Fort Washington Wellness Center classes are ongoing. There are several offered during lunch or right after work, for your convenience: Boot Camp from noon to 1 p.m. on Monday; Zumba is MWF from 11 a.m. to noon and Friday at 4 p.m.; there are 25 cycling classes; Ashtanga and Vinyasana Yoga and Pilates; and a group Womens Strength Training class M-F from 10 to 11 a.m. Questions, call Cathy DeMarco at 215-641-1245.

Following the success of other local area programs, Impact Sports and Upper Dublin Parks and Recreation are delighted to team up again to offer a spring program for the 2011 season! Upper Dublin area children ages 3-5 years old can attend a Sports Program featuring their favorite sports games; soccer, rugby, hockey, track and field, basketball, and more. The program will start on April 27 and run through June 1. Cost for the program is $85 for the six weeks. The classes will be running 12- 1 p.m.; 1- 2 p.m.; 2- 3 p.m. For more info or to register, call Upper Dublin Township on 215 643 1600 or visit their website a http://www.upperdublin.net.

Spring Aquatic Programs  UDHS Pool:

-Summer is just around the corner  Community Aquatic Programs at the UDHS Pool can help get you into shape! Programs begin in March; preregistration is required.

 Shallow Water Aerobics  Two 5-week programs, Wednesday nights, 8-8:45 p.m., $40R/$50NR.

 Adult Swim Instructions  Two 5-week programs, Wednesday nights, 7-8 p.m., $50R/$60NR

-Open Rec Swims are fun for the whole family! Come out on Fridays from 7-9 p.m. or Saturdays from 1-4 p.m. and enjoy use of the pool and diving area. Fridays are offered through June 17; Saturdays are offered March 12-May 21.

-Join a growing group of adult lap swimmers and water walkers. Lanes are set aside evenings and weekends for use; lanes are shared. Monday  Thursday from 7:30-9:30 p.m.; Fridays from 7-9 p.m. and Saturdays (March 12-May 21) from 1-4 p.m.

-Private Swimming & Diving Lessons for ages 3-adult are offered at the UDHS Pool through a partnership with the Upper Dublin Aquatic Club (UDAC). Visit the UDAC website for more information, www.udac.us, and click the link to UDHS Private Lessons.

-Looking for local programs for US Masters Swimming (adults) or Water Polo (all ages)? UDAC and UDSD are working together to develop programs that will be offered at the UDHS Pool. Add your name to Interest Lists by emailing slohoefer@upperdublin.net. emails will be sent about clinics and program start dates.

Questions about Community Aquatic Programs at the UDHS Pool, group use of the pool or pool rental? Contact Susan Lohoefer, Facility & Community Affairs Manager at slohoefer@upperdublin.net or call 215-643-8800 x8994.

SilverSneakers Fitness Program. The Healthyways SilverSneakers Fitness Program is a result-oriented program that enables older adults to take charge of their health. The program is an innovative blend of physical activity, healthy lifestyle and socially oriented programing. Members of the program are eligible for a free YMCA membership, with use of the pool and exercise equipment, along with customized classes designed for older adults who want to improve their strength, flexibility, balance and endurance. If you are a subscriber to Independence Blue Cross (Personal Choice 65 PPO) or Keystone 65 HMO, Bravo Health, or Health Options Programs (HOP), call the Ambler Area YMCA, 215-628-9950 or Hatboro Area YMCA, 215-674-4545. You can also visit www.silversneakers.com.

Zumba Fitness offers Zumba dance/fitness classes at Academy of Dance and Music/BBAD Studio located at 1524 DeKalb Pike in Blue Bell (behind Sherwin Williams). Classes are offered three times a week: Tuesdays at 6 p.m., Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 8 a.m. For a free trial pass for your first class, email us at info@danceandmusic.biz or call 610-277-2557. For more info, visit our site at www.academyofdanceandmusic.org.

Chestnut Hill Health Systems presents the following Health Education Programs:

FITNESS CLASSES

Golden Yoga: A Breathing, Stretching and Relaxation Class. Fridays, 2:30-3:30 p.m. Lea Auditorium, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave. Registration for four classes at a time required. Golden Yoga is Classical Yoga, adapted by the SKY Foundation, to accommodate those who have difficulty getting up and down from the floor. The program includes postures, breathing, relaxation and meditation techniques, all performed while sitting in a chair and standing. Registration required. Call 215-247-3029. Cost: $20 for 4 classes per month.

Tai Chi: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 8:30  9:30 a.m. Springfield Residence, 8601 Stenton Ave. Classes, for the novice or beginner/intermediate student, are designed to improve balance, power, posture, coordination, flexibility and mental focus. Slow, gentle movements are modified to most everyones abilities. For more information or to sign up for a free introductory class, call 215-882-2804. Cost: $8 per class/paid monthly.

SUPPORT GROUPS

Weight Loss Surgery Support Group: Fourth Wednesday of the month, 7-8 p.m. Williams Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia. Join us for a monthly get-together where well share information for those interested in weight loss surgery, learn from guest speakers discussing current news on issues including lifestyle modification, nutrition and exercise and provide ongoing support for those who have completed surgery. Registration required. Call 215-753-2000.

Breast Cancer Networking Group: Fourth Tuesday of the month 5:30  7 p.m. Williams Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia. A free, confidential support group for women living with a diagnosis of breast cancer designed to provide a forum for sharing information, feelings and concerns associated with breast cancer. Facilitated by Tish Wakefield, LCSW, Oncology Social Worker. Registration required. To register or for more information, call 215-248-8047.

New Moms Support Groups Tuesdays 10:30 a.m.  12 p.m.; contact Jeanine ORourke, MSW or 2:30  4 p.m.; contact Susan Schack, Ph.D Volunteer Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave. The Center for Postpartum Depression at Chestnut Hill Hospital is pleased to offer two new support groups to support new moms. Both groups will be run by experienced mental health professionals who really get it when it comes to new motherhood and juggling relationships, extended family, work/family balance and self-care. If you are experiencing new mom challenges that often heighten anxiety and involve hormonally driven depression, join us for an informative and supportive forum to connect with other moms. Infants are welcome. $30 per session (flexible based on need). Registration is required. Call Dr. Schack, 646-265-2484, or Ms. ORourke, 215-206-2931.

Man to Man Prostate Cancer Support Group Third Thursday of the month 8-9 a.m. Williams Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave. A networking group for men diagnosed with prostate cancer designed to provide education, support and encouragement. Spouses and partners welcome. Harry M. Baer, MD, Chief, Urology Division, will host Ask the Doctor. Registration required. Call 215-248-8325.

Contact the Senior Center by phone 215-248-0180 or email (chseniors@cavtel.net) with your questions about these programs or any of our on-going activities and classes.

Holy Redeemer HomeCare and Hospice seeks compassionate and emotionally mature volunteers to provide support to local hospice patients and their families in Bucks, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties. Volunteers may also assist with pet therapy and administrative work within the hospice department and are requested to have daytime availability. Hospice patient care volunteers visit with patients in their homes or nursing facilities once a week for two to three hours. They provide emotional support and companionship to patients and family members, assist with errands or provide respite for caregivers. Bereavement volunteers support the families of hospice patients following the loss of a loved one, while administrative volunteers assist with typing, mailings and/or filing. Hospice care workers provide a great service to families and loved ones of hospice patients. Many volunteers also report a great deal of personal satisfaction as a result of their services. Patient care and bereavement volunteers complete an application and attend an 18-hour volunteer training program that covers the medical, psychological and spiritual aspects of hospice volunteering. Day and evening training programs are offered. To sign up for volunteer opportunities in Pennsylvania, contact Holy Redeemer Volunteer Coordinator Jean Francis at 215-698-3737 or email jfrancis@holyredeemer.com.

Librarytalk

Upper Dublin Public Library, 805 Loch Alsh Avenue, Ft. Washington, 215-628-8744

www.upperdublinlibrary.org

APRIL CHILDRENS PROGRAMS:

Storytimes: Please register in the library.

o Wee Ones: 0 to 23 months Thursdays and Fridays 10:30 to 10:50 a.m.

o Tiny Tots: age 2. Wednesdays 10:30 to 10:50 a.m. and Fridays 11 to 11:20 a.m.

o Jr. Book Lovers: ages 3 to 6. Tuesdays 10:30 to 11 a.m.

o Bedtime Storytimes: 7 to 7:30 p.m. April 20 and 27. Wear your jammies, bring your teddy & hear Miss Barbara read bedtime stories! For ages 3 to 6.

APRIL TEEN PROGRAMS:

North Hills Library Teens April 28 from 4 to 6 p.m. Movie Matinee

APRIL UDPL ADULT PROGRAMS:

NEW! ESL Conversation Group. Tuesdays from 7 to 8 p.m. Interested in practicing your English in a safe and caring environment? Come to our conversation group and improve your skills! Please register with Kay Klocko at 215-628-8744 or kklocko@mclinc.org.

One-on-One Computer Mentoring. Get personalized assistance from experienced computer volunteers! Sign-up for a one-hour session. Limit one session per month. Please register  contact info above.

Book Groups Please register with Kay Klocko 215-628-8744.

o Daytimers: April 21 at 1:30 p.m. Tired of book groups where you all read the same book? Read any fiction or non-fiction book on this months theme: Explorers. Please register.

Meetings:

Annual Meeting of the Friends of UDPL: April 14 at 1 p.m.

Board of Directors: April 20 at 7 p.m.

Blue Bell Library www.wvpl.org Upcoming Events: The Wissahickon Valley Public Library, 650 Skippack Pike (Route 73) in Blue Bell, is diagonally across from the Blue Bell Inn. Call 215-643-1320 or visit their website at www.wvpl.org.

For children and teens at Blue Bell:

* Story times with guitar music by Miss Michelle, the singing librarian.

* Mondays at 10:30 a.m. for all ages.

* Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m. for all ages.

* Fridays at 10:30 a.m. for all ages.

* Family Movies, new releases, second Saturdays of the month at 1:30 p.m.

* May 14  Despicable Me

* June 11  Alpha and Omega

* Special Events

* April  watch for date of spring/Easter events

* April 14 at 4:30 p.m.  Junior Lego Club for children ages 3 through 5. Parents and caregivers need to stay with children.

* April 14 at 7 p.m.  Jeopardy for ages 11 to 18. Test your book and library knowledge for prizes. Sign up to be a contestant. No sign up to be in the audience. Snacks provided.

* April 16 at 1 p.m.  Adult Mystery Book Group discussing The Beekeepers Apprentice by Laurie King.

* April 16 at 1:30 p.m.  Childrens event for One Book, Every Young Child celebration. Story and craft for book Whose Shoes?

* April 19 at 7 p.m. and April 26 at 1:30 p.m.- Adult book group discusses The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester. Group led by Adam Button.

* April 30 through May 3  Friends book sale with about 10,000 items for sale for children, teens and adults.

* May  sign up for Science in the Summer

* June  sign up for Enrichment Programs for Elementary-Age children

* June  sign up for Summer Reading, all ages

For adults at Blue Bell:

* Daytime Book Discussion Group  fourth Tuesday, Jan  April at 1:30 p.m.

* April 26  The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester

* Night-time Book Discussion Group  third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m.

o April 19  The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester

* Art Series with Dr. Sheldon Weintraub, docent at The Barnes and speaker at local colleges

o April 27 at 2 p.m. The Art of Looking at Art-Is She Nude or Is She Naked?

*Mystery Book Discussion Group, third Saturday of the month at 1 p.m.; new mystery theme each month; www.wvpl.org/programs

* Yoga on Mondays at 1:30 p.m. $20 for eight classes; $5 per drop-in class.

* Tai Chi on Mondays at 3 p.m. with Dr. Kurt Findeisen. $20 for eight classes; $5 per drop in class.

* Philadelphia Museum of Art presents class on their Marc Chagall exhibit, April 13 at 2 p.m.

* Giant Book Sale, April 29  May 3

o Starts with almost 10,000 items for children and adults!

o Held during library hours.

o Preview for members of the Friends of the Library, April 28 at 7 p.m.

o Join the Friends and attend the preview sale. Modest fee to join.

* Blooms at Blue Bell Gardening Series

o May 11 at 1 p.m.  Summer Bulbs by PA Horticultural Society

* Knitting group Mondays and Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Work on your project or observe and learn. The groups continue year-round in the community room.

* Socrates Cafe discussion group every Monday at 7 p.m. You pick the topic to discuss each week. No sign-up, nothing to read.

* Bridge every Friday at 12:30 p.m. New players welcome.

* Mah Jong every Wednesday at 1 p.m. New players welcome.

*Chess every Wednesday at 7p.m. for adults and teens 14 and older.

* Movie Matinee showing recent releases every Thursday at 2 p.m. April 14: Maos Last Dancer; April 21: Welcome to the Rileys; April 28: Conviction; May 5: Inception; May 12: Inside Job; May 19 The Kings Speech; May 26 The Fighter; June 2 Rabbit Hole; June 9 Black Swan; June 16 127 Hours

* Ongoing like-new, year-round book sale for adults & children during library hours

* Library opening at 10 a.m. Monday through Saturday!

Ambler Library, a branch of the Wissahickon Valley Public Library, 209 Race St., 215-646-1072. www.wvpl.org. All the following events occur at the Ambler Library.

* Story times with guitar music by Miss Michelle, the singing librarian.

* Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. for all ages.

* Thursdays at 4:30 p.m. for all ages.

* For adults:

* Beading Group meets the first and third Monday of every month at 1 p.m. Work on your own projects or come to watch and learn.

* Free Family History Lookup with Connie Briggs. Email Connie for an appointment at the Ambler Library. conniebriggs@comcast.net

* Special Events:

* April 14 at 1:30 p.m.  Book Group discusses Skeletons at the Feast by Chris Bohjalian.

* April 19 at 7 p.m.  Travel to Paris with world traveler Harry Balin. Tea and scones at 6:30 p.m.

* April 21 at 7 p.m.  Art with Sara for children in fourth through seventh grades.

*May 2 at 6:30 p.m.  Discuss the movie Lone Star with Temple Professor Lisa Hawkins. Watch the movie ahead of time.

*May 10  Robert Capucci discusses Art into Fashion. Tea and scones served at 6:30 p.m. Program at 7 p.m.

*May 12 at 1:30p.m.  Book Group discusses The Imperfectionists by Tom Rachman.

*May 17  Tour the gardens of Devon and Southwest England with Lois McMullen. Tea and Scones at 6:30 p.m. Program at 7 p.m.

*June 13 at 6:30 p.m.  Discuss the movie Blade Runner with Temple Professor Lisa Hawkins. Watch the movie ahead of time.

Meetings and Lectures

The Unisys Blue Bell Retiree Group will meet in the Church on the Mall in the Plymouth Meeting Mall April 14 at 1:30 p.m. Kathy Sacket Young, director/trainer with the North Penn YMCA, will speak on Keeping Fit in Retirement. For more information, contact Membership Committee Chairperson Jerry Feldscher at 610-275-3538 or President Al Rollin at 215-368-4833.

The next FWBA meeting will be April 28 at the Hilton Garden Inn Fort Washington. Networking begins at 11:30 a.m.; meeting from noon to 1 p.m. Leon Singletary, Principal, First Contact HR and FWBA Executive Board, will present: Social Media: How to Use It To Get More Business. Lunch is provided courtesy of the Hilton Garden Inn Fort Washington. Members are welcome to bring a guest. An RSVP is requested by return email or 215-628-0313.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Southeastern PA is hosting a information sessions over the next few weeks on how to become a Big Brother. The information sessions will take place: April 16 at noon, April 19 at 8 a.m. and April 28 at 6 p.m. All sessions will be held at the groups Norristown Office,t 530 DeKalb St., Norristown. For more information, call 610-277-2200.

The North Penn Chapter of the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) normally meets on the third Tuesday of each month from now until May. Meetings are held at the William Penn Inn on Route 202 and Sumneytown Pike, Upper Gwynedd, PA. Social hour starts at 5:30 p.m., dinner is served at 6:30 p.m., and the technical program begins at 7 p.m. Cost with reservation is $28 for members. Members without reservations and guests pay $30. Students with reservations pay $15. Reservations may be made by noon on the Monday preceding the meeting by phoning 215-371-1854 or emailing the reservation to northpennima@yahoo.com northpennima@yahoo.com. Information about the North Penn Chapter is available at http://northpenn.imanet.org/.

LeTip, a professional organization of men and women who are dedicated to the highest standards of competence and service meets every Tuesday at Cedar Brook Country Club, 180 Penllyn Pike, Blue Bell at 7 a.m. -meeting officially starts at 7:16 a.m. and ends at 8:31 a.m. Our purpose is the exchange of business tips, leads, and referrals. Each business category is represented by one member and conflicts of interest are disallowed. Guests are welcome to visit any of our breakfast meetings.

Every third Thursday of month, Sunrise Assisted Living of Blue Bell (795 Penllyn Pike, Blue Bell, PA 19422, 215-619-2777) serves as a satellite site to 148th Legislative district PA congressman Mike Gerber from 10 a.m. to noon. Stop by for help needed with things such as disability placards and license plates, vehicle registration, utilities issues, birth/death certificates,property tax/rent rebates, etc. Notary services arranged by appointment.

The Eastern Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is an action-oriented organization dedicated to promoting its members and the economic health of eastern Montgomery county. The Chamber is committed to serving as a catalyst by uniting business, community agencies, government and education to make our county a great place to live and work. For information, call 215-887-5122 or visit www.emccc.org.

Do you have a fear of public speaking? Blue Bell Toastmasters Club can help. We meet from 7 to 9 p.m., on the second and fourth Tuesday at the Marriott Courtyard, located on Route 202, directly across from the Montgomeryville Mall. Learn how to improve communication and leadership skills in a friendly and supportive environment. Guests are welcome. Admission fee: $5. For more info, visit www.bbtoast.org.

The PennSuburban Chamber of Commerce will hold the following meetings (for reservations to any of the following, email info@PennSuburban.org)

-Breakfast News Network, 7:30-8:45 a.m. at Normandy Farm Hotel (1401 Morris Road, Blue Bell, PA 19422) $15 members, includes full buffet breakfast. Join us for a networking program at Normandy Farm Hotel every Thursday morning for breakfast, business news, informative speakers, and plenty of networking. The cost includes a full breakfast buffet. Copies of the business cards will be made available to those who would like them.

The BNI, Fort Washington Chapter meets every Monday at The Hilton Garden Inn, 520 Pennsylvania Ave., Fort Washington for a networking meeting. Meetings are from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. Visitors are welcome. The only cost to attend is the cost of your meal. For information or a reservation to attend, please call Luanne Cram at 215-947-7784, or visit our Internet site at: http://www.BNIDVR.Com and click on the menu item Find a Chapter.

For the past seven years, people have enjoyed participating in WVWAs Adopt-a-Tree program. Individuals can support the Association in its reforestation efforts by purchasing native trees to be planted. Supporters can plant their adopted tree or have WVWA volunteers will plant it. Trees cost $30 each. If you would like to volunteer or purchase a tree(s), please contact: Bob Adams at Bob@wvwa.org or call: 215-646-8866 for more information. Check www.WVWA.org for directions and maps.

Sustainable Upper Dublin, http://sustainableupperdublin.org, meets the first Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m., at the Upper Dublin Township Building, 801 Loch Alsh Avenue, Fort Washington, PA 19034. Please send any questions to suec@sustainableupperdublin.org or call 610-996-6316. To learn more about Sustainable Upper Dublin, view or join the discussion at http://googlegroups.com/group/sustainableupperdublin.

Special Events

The Mattie N. Dixon Community Cupboard will hold its first nutrition class April 19 at 10 a.m. at the Community Cupboard, 150 N. Main St., Ambler. Lynne Sinclair, a nutritionist from Abington Memorial Hospital specializing in diabetic nutrition, will conduct the class. Topics will include healthy eating, beneficial foods, recipes, making meals with every day foods, and how to use unfamiliar produce. A healthy snack will be provided.The class is is open to all residents in Montgomery County.

The Historical Society of Fort Washington presents The History of Conshohocken April 19 at 8 p.m. at the Clifton House, 473 Bethlehem Pike, Fort Washington. Jack Coll will present an illustrated program on the history of the Borough of Conshohocken. Coll is a longtime resident of Conshohocken and a member of the Conshohocken Historical Society. He is co-author with his son, Brian, of the Arcadia Then and Now Series book Conshohocken. He has also done books Conshohocken and West Conshohocken Sports and Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Italian Feast. He has taken many photos for the Conshohocken Record and the Norristown Times Herald. This program is free. Refreshments will be served. For additional information, call 215-646-6065.

Taste of the White House Soiree featuring former White House Chef Walter Scheib will take place April 29 at 6 p.m. at Manufacturers Golf & Country Club in Fort Washington to celebrate HealthLinks 10th anniversary and honor its founders, the Eugene Jackson Family. The evening will heat up with a Chef Meet & Greet, followed by a specially selected presidential menu. Gala tickets are $150 per person. Proceeds benefit HealthLink, a free clinic providing compassionate, quality medical and dental care to uninsured, working adults in Bucks and Montgomery counties who fall in between the health care cracks. Go to http://tasteofthewhitehouse.charityhappenings.org to make reservations online or lend support through sponsorship. For event information, call 267-699-0124 or email jmarushak@healthlinkmedical.org.

The Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association will hold an open house at the Evans-Mumbower Mill April 17 from 1 to 4 p.m. The Mill is at the corner of Swedesford and Township Line Roads in Upper Gwynedd. The open house is free but donations are welcome. For more information, call 215-646-8866 o email info@wvwa.org.

The Eastern Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce will host Breakfast With Your County Commissioners and State Representatives April 21 from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at the Holiday Inn Fort Washington, 432 W. Pennasylvania Ave. Commissioners: James R. Matthews (Chairman), Joseph M. Hoeffel (Vice Chair), State Representatives: Todd Stephens (District 151) and Josh Shapiro (District 153). Register onlineat www.emccc.org. $10 for EMCCC member; $20 for non-members.

Upper Dublins Districtwide Allied Art Show will be held April 27 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. in the Upper Dublin High School Athletic Complex.

The Rev. Alfred Muli, chaplain at Fort Washington Estates, will be the featured speaker at the Kiwanis sponsored breakfast observing the National Day of Prayer May 5 at 7 a.m. at the William Penn Inn. The breakfast is open to the public ($15). Reservations can be made by calling 215-646-4356 or by emailing georgesaurman@Juno.com.

The Upper Dublin Shade Tree Commission invites people to participate in its spring bare root planting events, sponsored in part by Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation and Friends of Robbins Park. On April 9, zix trees will be planted at the Evelyn B. Wright Park & Community Pool, 401 Logan Ave., North Hills, at 9 a.m., followed by the planting of 10 trees at Sheeleigh Park, Loch Alsh Avenue and Douglas Street, Ambler, at 10:15 a.m. On April 29, students from Upper Dublin High School will join the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society to plant 16 trees in Robbins Park, Butler Pike and Meetinghouse Road, Ambler, to help launch the societys Million Trees campaign. This event will occur in conjunction with Temple Amblers EarthFest. Experienced tree-tenders are sought to assist the students. For more information,contact Ron Ayres at 215-653-0421 or 215-483-4348.

The Friends of the Wissahickon and the Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association are teaming up once again to clean the Wissahickon Creek from top to bottom April 30 from 9 a.m. to noon. This spring marks the 41st anniversary of Wissahickon Valley Watershed Associations annual Creek Clean Up, and the second year that FOW has teamed up with WVWA. Volunteers of all ages will clean the creek, the surrounding trails and the many tributaries of the Wissahickon Creek. Armed with bags, volunteers will be assigned to sections of the creek. Following the clean up, all volunteers are invited to WVWAs Talkin Trash picnic in Fort Washington State Park, with food provided by Whole Foods Market of North Wales. The pavilion is located on Mill Road in Flourtown. To help out in Montgomery County, all volunteers must be pre-assigned a section of the Wissahickon Creek to clean. Please contact Bob Adams, WVWA director of stewardship, at 215-646-8866 ext. 14 or bob@wvwa.org. To work with the Friends of the Wissahickon in Philadelphia, meet at the pavilion along Forbidden Drive, a short distance south of the intersection of Forbidden Drive and Northwestern Avenue. Limited parking is available along Northwestern Avenue and other nearby streets. Volunteers are encouraged to bike or carpool to the event. To participate, register at www.fow.org. Contact Kevin Groves with questions at 215-247-0417 ext. 105 or groves@fow.org.

Montgomery County Community Colleges International Club invites the community to the second annual International Festival April 20 from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Central Campus, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. The rain date is April 26. The International Club will transform the outside quad area into multicultural celebration with various performances by dancers, singers and musicians. Artists will share their artwork at various display tables. Activities include games, raffles, Easter egg decorating and henna tattoos. Students will have samples of international cuisine at tables representing different countries and will serve food from various local ethnic restaurants. Throughout the evening, volunteers will accept donations and will raffle gift baskets and prizes to raise funds for Habitat for Humanity. Donations of food, international clothes and prizes are needed. Volunteers, including artists and performers, are welcome. For more information or to sponsor an activity, contact Gillian Nel, International Club president, at gnel9277@students.mc3.edu or 267-974-0163.

The Arts and Humanities Division at Montgomery County Community College is partnering with the Philadelphia Writers Conference to host Memoirs Matter: How Life Stories (Including Yours) Can Transform Your Relationship to Literature April 23 from 1 to 3 p.m. in Advanced Technology Center room 101, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. The event is free and open to the public. In the first part of this two-hour seminar, professor and author Robert Waxler will explain how writing his two memoirs affected his life as well as his relationship to literature. In the second part, blogger and workshop leader Jerry Waxler will present a sequence of steps to help writers find their own story. For information, contact Dana Resente at dresente@mc3.edu.

The Maple Glen Garden Club will hold its fourth annual Plant Sale on May 7 from 8 to 11 a.m. Perennials, shrubs, vegetables and native plants grown by the club members will be sold. The club uses the plant sale proceeds to fund community projects, a college scholarship and community plantings. The sale will be held in the 500 block of Coach Road, Horsham, as part of a neighborhood garage sale. Plants will be sold at bargain prices. For more information, email MapleGlenGardenClub@gmail.com.

The Relay for Life Craft Show is looking for local crafters to participate in show, which will be May 21 from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the Wissahickon High School track, 521 Houston Road, Ambler. There is a $10 entry fee, and 20 percent of sales are donated to the American Cancer Society. Participants will receive a 6-foot table under a tent. For information, contact Joanne at joannescoles@comcast.net or Mindy at mcamsilver@comcast.net.

Spring House Estates is hosting its annual book fair on April 18 from 4 to 7 p.m. and April 9 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Included will be hardback and paperback used books. Spring House Estates is located at 728 Norristown Road, Lower Gwynedd.

The PennSuburban Chamber of Commerce will present the Penn Suburban/Hatfield Joint Business Card Exchange April 20 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Univest Bank Lansdale Area Financial Service Center, 120 Forty Foot Road, Hatfield. The event is free. To make reservations, visit PennSuburban.org/Events. Join Univest National Bank and Trust Co. for a spring-inspired Business Card Exchange at its newest office in the Hatfield Pointe Shopping Center. Come out and meet members of Univests executive management team while enjoying fine food and beverages.

13th Annual Community Reading Day Kick-off Breakfast Get Together April 26 from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at the North Wales Area Library, 233 Swartley St., North Wales. The event is free. To make reservations, visit PennSuburban.org/Events. For more information, contact the chamber office at 215-362-9200 or info@pennsuburban.org. Join presenting sponsor Verizon, chamber staff and fellow members for the Community Reading Day volunteer get together. The Community Reading Day program allows volunteers to read a designated book to second-grade students throughout 38 area public and private schools and present the book as a gift to each class. Even if you are not a volunteer, you are cordially invited to stop by to network, enjoy coffee and pastries.

Ambler Mennonite Church is hosting a Spring Craft Show and Flea Market May 21 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Rain date will be May 28. The community is invited to shop the great craft booths, find some gifts and deals, as well as enjoy home baked goods and tasty lunch specials. Childrens activities are planned. All vendors are encouraged to contact the church at 215-643-4876 or AmblerMennonite@verizon.net. Advertising, signage, customer parking and a shuttle to auxiliary parking at nearby lots for vendors will be provided. 10 foot by 10 foot spaces can be rented for $5 each and tables for an additional $5 each. All proceeds from space and table rentals go toward school kits for children around the world. The church is located at the corner of East Mt. Pleasant Avenue and North Spring Garden Street, Ambler.

The Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association presents The Life & Times of Aquatic Insects in the Wissahickon Creek April 16 from 1 to 3 p.m. Join WVWA for a hands-on program. RSVP required: www.wvwa.org or 215-646-8866. WVWA member fee: $5 per person / $15 per family. Non-WVWA member fee: $10 per person / $20 per family.

The photography exhibition Natures Palette by photo-artist Judy Miller will run March 18 to May 19 at the Art in the Storefront gallery, 41 E. Butler Pike, Ambler.

JPRN  Networking For People in Transition & People Who Can Help Them  Unemployment remains high. JPRN, the Jarrettown Professional Relationship Network can help. Are you trying to network your way to a new job? Do you have expertise or contacts that can help people in transition? Is your company or organization looking for people in the area? This is a free outreach program to support those seeking work, involve people with contacts and networking know how, and involve local companies. Meetings held monthly at Jarrettown United Methodist Church, Limekiln Pike.

Pennsylvanias Low-Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) grant program is now open for the 2010-11 heating season. Grants are based on income, family size, type of heating fuel and region. Additional information, such as specific income limits, and applications for LIHEAP grants are available online via the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Access to Social Services (COMPASS) website at www.compass.state.pa.us. Applications are available at most public officals district offices, county assistance offices, local utility companies and community service agencies, such as Area Agencies on Aging or community action agencies.

Begin your holiday shopping at Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation! Entertainment books for 2011, Philadelphia North, are now on sale at $30 each. Regal/United Artists movie tickets are on sale for just $7.50 each, and tickets to the Adventure Aquarium, Baltimore Aquarium, and the Philadelphia Zoo are also available. Discounted ski vouchers to area mountains will be arriving in December; call 215-643-1600 x3443 for more information. Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation office hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

RSVP of Montgomery County and the Wissahickon Valley Public Library have partnered again to offer the public their popular free mock interview sessions. The mock interviews are conducted by RSVP volunteers who are retired professionals, some of whom were in hiring positions themselves. Packets of information which include a sample employment application and interviewing tips with mock interview questions are available at the library to pick up prior to a scheduled mock interview or will be sent via email once the interview is scheduled. To schedule your interview, please contact Janis Glusman at RSVP 610-834-1040, ext. 16. The library is also offering a free resume review service. Bring in your current resume and the professional reference staff will assist you with hints and tips on capturing your work history accurately.

Registration for Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation summer playgrounds, Camp B.I.G. and Small Folks, X-Zone, and sports camps has began. Register online at www.upperdublin.net/store, or at the UDP&R office, 801 Loch Alsh Avenue, Fort Washington. Call 215-643-1600 x3443 for more information.

Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation and Danielles Espresso Cafe presents Mornings at Mondaug Bark Park April 16 and May 21 from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Meet fellow dog lovers. These events include complimentary coffee, treats for people and pups and raffles/giveaways.

Upper Dublins Annual Spring Flea Market will be held June 4 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Reserve a table, or come and shop. Tables are $15 for UD residents, $20 for non-residents. This successful event occurs rain or shine. Refreshments available. Call 215-643-1600 ext. 3443 to register for a table.

Regal movie tickets available for purchase at Upper Dublin Township Parks & Recreation. Reduced rate: $7.50 per ticket. Some restrictions apply. Call 215-643-1600 x3443.

Whitpain Township Parks & Recreation movie tickets $7.50 Regal Cinemas, United Artist & Edwards Cinemas on sale throughout the year Monday  Friday from 9 a.m.  4 p.m.

Whitpain Township Parks & Recreation Camp Sign-ups for Stony Creek Day Camp  Stony Creek Tracers and Park n Tots. Register on-line at www.whitpaintownship.org OrCome to Township Building with check or Visa MasterCard Monday  Friday from 9 a.m.  4 p.m. For additional information call 610.277-2400 ext. 374

Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation offers exciting new programs for the fall:

-Returning favorites include UK Elite Petite Soccer, Tiny Dancers, Kiddie Tennis, Fun-nastics, Messy Playtime, Little Chefs, and more. Babysitters Training will be offered in November and December. Continuing Adult Fitness Classes include Cardio Circuit, Core & More, Yoga, Boxing, and Adult G.Y.M. For more information call 215-643-1600 x3443. Register for programs online at www.upperdublin.net/store.

Music and Theater

The community is invited to a Cantors Concert April 16 at 8 p.m. Congregation Beth Or, 239 Welsh Road, Maple Glen. Listen and hum-along to the Yiddish, pop tunes and classical music performed by Congregation Beth Ors own Cantor David Green and his special guest, Cantor Irvin Bell, from Temple Beth Israel in Deerfield Beach, Fla. The cantors will be accompanied by Mark Sobol and his Klezmer musicians. Tickets are $18 in advance and $25 at the door. RSVP with payment to Barb Murtha, 239 Welsh Road, Maple Glen, PA 19002, or call 215-646-5806 ext. 220.

Gwynedd Friends Coffeehouse will host the Jameson Sisters May 14. Doors open at 7:30 pm, performance at 8:00 pm. Gwynedd Friends Coffeehouse is located at the corner of Rte. 202 & Sumneytown Pike, Gwynedd. $5 suggested donation. Light refreshment available at a modest cost. For further information, call 215-393-9576 or visit gwyneddmeeting.org/coffeehouse.html.

Celebrate patriotism through song with Gwynedd-Mercy Colleges choir, the Voices of Gwynedd, as it presents Hear America Singing April 15 at 8 p.m. The choir will perform song selections from all over the country, including Georgia on My Mind, New York State of Mind, and a medley including Philadelphia Freedom and Allentown. The performance will end with When the Saints Go Marching In to acknowledge the choirs upcoming tour in New Orleans. Hear America Singing will take place in the Julia Ball Auditorium, located in St. Bernard Hall. Parking is available in lots A, C and D. Admission is free.

The Choristers will present Anton Dvoraks Stabat Mater April 16 at 7:30 p.m. at Upper Dublin Lutheran Church in Ambler. The choir will be accompanied by a 41-piece orchestra. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for senior citizens, $10 for students and children are free. Tickets will be sold in advance or at the door. For more information, call 215-542-7871 or visit TheChoristers.org

Religious News

The Staircase Gallery at Or Hadash: A Reconstructionist Congregation in Fort Washington will feature the work of Emily Ennuat-Lustine. The artist will be showing paintings and graphics inspired by her own personal spiritual journey and quest for meaning. Some of the works to be shown have been inspired by Biblical Psalms and writings. Her work has been shown at Abington Art Center, Cheltenham Arts Center and Old City Gallery of Jewish Art among others. The exhibition is open Friday evenings starting Feb. 18 after Shabbat services. Gallery hours are: Mondays through Thursdays 10-4:30, Fridays 10-3 and following Shabbat Services and Sundays 10-1. The synagogue is located at 190 Camp Hill Road in Fort Washington. For additional information contact the synagogue office at 215-283-0276.

Reunions

St. Matthews High School Conshohocken Class of 1961 is looking for classmates. For details, contact Greg Marincola at 215-646-2239, 215-740-1296 or gregcola@comcast.net.

Olney High School Class of 1971 is Lloking for classmates for a 40th reunion Oct. 28. For details, contact Judy at ohsclassof71@yahoo.com or 215-870-7572.

Abington High School Class of 1961 is seeking classmates for a 50-year reunion to be held Oct. 14-15, 2011.Visit the website, www.abington61.com, for details or call 215-947-1779.

Overbrook High School class of January 1956 is having a 55 year reunion on May 22, 2011 at the Bala Golf Club in Philadelphia. For information please contact overbrookreunion56@comcast.net

Germantown High School Class Of January 1961 is looking for classmates for 50th year reunion to take place in May of 2011. Please contact: 215-362-9148, 856-577-0659 or samdelcomo@comcast.net

The June 1961 class of Germantown High School is holding their 50th reunion on May 15, which will be a brunch. For further details please contact Linda Dorfman Alten at lindaalten@yahoo.com or call 215-441-8411.

Support

New Life Presbyterian Church in Dresher, will host GriefShare, a special seminar and support group which will run on Monday evenings from 7 to 9 p.m., from March 7 through June 6. At each meeting there will be a DVD about the grief process, discussion and reference to a grief workbook. Preregistration is required to secure a place in the group and to purchase a GriefShare notebook (for a one-time fee of $15). The notebook goes along with the 13-week schedule covering such topics as: living with grief, the effects of grief, and stuck in grief. For more information or to register, call: Sandy Elder at 215-884-5149.

PUPS (People Understanding Parkinsons) A self-help group for those adjusting to a new diagnosis or dealing with the early stages of Parkinsons Disease. Meets fourth Tuesday of the month from 1 to 2:30 p.m., at Abington Health Center, Schilling Campus, Willowood Building, 2510 Maryland Road, Suite 251, Willow Grove. For more information or to RSVP, contact Lorna at 215-542-2931.

The North Penn Visiting Nurse Associations Meals on Wheels program is looking for volunteers to pack or deliver meals to the elderly and infirmed. Meals are packed and delivered mornings, Monday through Friday. You can volunteer for as many days per week or month as you would like. Packaging meals requires approximately 2-1/2 hours of your time each day and involves making sandwiches, packaging food into individual serving containers and packing coolers with the meals. Delivering meals requires approximately 1-1/2 hours of your time each day and involves loading coolers into your car and delivering a route of approximately 10 to 15 stops. The Meals on Wheels program is also in need of emergency, winter-weather volunteers to pack and deliver meals in bad weather. North Penn VNA is located at 51 Medical Campus Drive in Lansdale and delivers meals in the Lansdale, North Wales and Blue Bell areas. For more information or to volunteer, please call Bridget, North Penn VNA Meals on Wheels coordinator at 215-855-8296.

Elkins Park Area CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) meets the first Tuesday of every month, 7- 8:30 p.m., at Einstein at Elkins Park Hospital in Elkins Park. For information on CHADD or ADHD, please see our website www.chadd.net/249 or call Claire Noyes at: 215-779-6656.

Center for Loss and Bereavement, 3847 Skippack Pike, Skippack (610-222-4110) www.bereavementcenter.org Offers professional counseling for individuals, couples, children and families dealing with issues of loss and bereavement. Six-week adult support groups: Newly forming young adult grief support group  every other Wednesday, 7  8:15 p.m. (free of charge); Monthly loss of child support  second Mondays, 7-8:15 p.m.; Six-week young loss of spouse/partner  Thursdays, 10-11:15 a.m.; Other groups scheduled as interest is shown for suicide loss support, adult loss of parent, motherless daughters, adult loss of sibling, coping with chronic illness and disability and mens loss of spouse. Nellos Corner Family Bereavement program offers peer grief support groups for ages 4 through teen and their caregivers  Every other Tuesday or Wednesday (free of charge) Local chapter of Parents of Murdered Children also meets at the Center. Registration required. Call for further information.

CHADD is a national organization for children & adults with Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder, providing education, advocacy and support for individuals and their families with AD/HD. Einstein at Elkins Park Hospital, 60 Township Line Road, Elkins Park, PA 19027, will host children & adults with Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder on the First Tuesday of each month 7  8:30 p.m. Free, no childcare provided.

The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphias Kehillah of Old York Road is sponsoring a free Caregiver Support Group for individuals who care for an elderly person with cognitive and/or physical impairments. The group meets at SarahCare Adult Day Care Center, 101 Washington Lane, Suite G-6, Jenkintown, Pa., on the first Wednesday of each month. Patty Rich,
Following the announcement of 625 layoffs at General Motors Company (NYSE: GM)s Ontario plant, Unifor President Jerry Dias expressed support for renegotiation of the NAFTA deal.

Dias told Reuters that the GM decision came right out of left field.

"This is NAFTA, he said. This has nothing to do with Trump, but it has everything to do with NAFTA.

The head of the labor union alleged that GM, which plans to shift production to Mexico, was motivated by cheaper labor opportunities.

In response to Diass remarks, GM told Benzinga it acted appropriately with regard to Unifor policies.

General Motors Canada provided Unifor advanced notification of labor impacts related to product changeovers and transition at its CAMI facility as older models are phased out and CAMI begins production of the next-generation Equinox, a company spokesperson said. We continue to work with our Unifor partners to manage through the adjustment with all measures available to us within the collective agreement.

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 2017 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
January 28, 2017

The End Of Mingling - "Moderate Rebels" Join Al-Qaeda In Syria

There was a lot of confusion about the infighting in the "rebel" held Idleb governate in Syria. The situation is now clearing up. After other tricks, like renaming the group, did not work to deceive, al-Qaeda finally pulled back the veil. It is no longer hiding between the "moderate rebels" but is now (again) a clearly identifiable groups. Groups near to al-Qaeda integrated with it, other groups split with significant parts joining the al-Qaeda organization.

Qalaat Al Mudiq @QalaatAlMudiq

N. #Syria: Tahrir Al-Sham Corps is born. Zinki, #JFS, Jaish Al-Sunna, Ansar Al-Din & Liwa Al-Haq merged under unified leadership (Abu Jaber)

The Zinki (Zengi) group had CIA support and received anti-tank weapons from the U.S. and its Gulf proxies. JFS is the short form of Jabhat Fateh al-Sham, formerly Jabhat al-Nusra, the official al-Qaeda group in Syria. It is the strongest "rebel" group on the ground. Abu Jabar is a former Ahrar al-Sham leader who had long argued for integrating both groups. The Turkish and U.S. supported Ahrar al Sham has now officially split. The probably larger part under Abu Jabar has joined al-Qaeda.



bigger

The "new" Hayyat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS) is not a coalition of the various groups but THE new al-Qaeda group on the ground with a unified command and ideological structure. The operative military leader is Abu Jabar while the founder of al-Qaeda in Syria, Abu Mohammad al-Julani, will stay in the background as the overall emir of the group. Hayyat Tahrir Al-Sham has a military alliance in Idleb with the smaller local ISIS group Jund al-Aqsa. Joining with them is not (yet) convenient.

The now further enlarged al-Qaeda formation under the new name Tahrir Al-Sham is by far the biggest "rebel" dog in the Idleb-region town with now many more than its previous 10,000 active fighters. Of all other groups the "moderate" side of the split Ahrar al-Sham is the biggest one. It is estimated to have some 5,000 fighters. Left beside it are just splinters of those groups (like Zinki) that mainly crossed over to al-Qaeda. Some local warlords and their small gangs are also still around. These groups will continue to receive Turkish and U.S. support. But they will have no chance against the much more powerful al-Qaeda collective.

The leader of al-Qaeda in Syria al-Julani made a huge mistake by initiating this open split from the "moderates". The group can now no longer hide by "mingling" with the CIA supported "moderates". When it is attacked by the Syrian government it can no longer claim to be a victim. As it is a UN designated terrorist group it will receive no significant outside support. It can not even go into guerrilla mode because the "fish" (the guerrilla) will have no "water" (a sympathetic local population) to swim in.

This plays well into the Russian hands which initiated the Astana peace conference exactly for this purpose. The U.S. under Obama and Kerry had declared it impossible to separate al-Qaeda in Syria from the "moderate rebels" it supported. The Astana conference and in its consequence the now open al-Qaeda conflict with the "moderates" achieved the separation. The "moderates" left now can only join al-Qaeda, make peace with the Syrian government and its allies or flee the country to survive.

---

In other news the Syrian government forces have finally recaptured the Ayn al-Feejah in Wadi Barada that supplies Damascus with drinking water. 5.5 million people were cut off from tap water when the Takfiris captured, poisoned and blocked the spring 44 days ago. After three earlier deals had failed the now defeated Takfirs agreed to being transported to Idleb.

Posted by b on January 28, 2017 at 19:56 UTC | Permalink

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RALEIGH  Heres the good news: North Carolinas state budget is solidly in the black. From July to December, the first six months of the fiscal year, General Fund revenues are up 4 percent over the same time last year. At the same time, General Fund expenditures are up just 2 percent. If current trends continue  and thats a big if, because revenues and expenditures dont necessarily display the same patterns from year to year  state lawmakers and new Gov. Roy Cooper will likely see a sizable budget surplus by the end of June.

And now, the bad news: state lawmakers and new Gov. Roy Cooper will likely see a sizable budget surplus by the end of June.

Okay, so Im being a little cheeky here. Running a surplus is far better than running a deficit. It speaks well of both the states economic performance and the states recent fiscal policies. But if Im right and North Carolina experiences another in what has been an impressive series of annual surpluses, you can expect tremendous political pressure on state leaders to wrench open the spending spigot.

The Cooper administration would love nothing better, it seems. The governor ran against former Gov. Pat McCrorys record of budgetary restraint, even to the point of criticizing the accumulation of a $1.6 billion rainy-day fund. During the fall campaign, Cooper said that was too big, that hed have spent a good deal of that money rather than saving it.

As the governor proposes far higher levels of expenditure for the 2017-18 fiscal year and beyond, hell be cheered on exuberantly by liberal newspapers, left-wing activists, and the spending lobbies that will actually get the loot. Yes, the Republicans maintain supermajorities in both legislative chambers. I worry, however, that some GOP lawmakers might succumb to pressure from the spending lobbies, or even conclude on their own that the state has saved enough.

That would be a mistake. North Carolina has done an impressive job of shoring up its balance sheet, not only by building a $1.6 billion rainy-day fund but also by socking away another $411 million in Medicaid reserves. But if we end up with a large budget surplus by June, state policymakers should still put a good chunk of it into the rainy-day fund.

It may sound like having $2 billion in cash reserves is plenty. But what if a recession comes sooner rather than later? The current national recovery from the Great Recession, while relatively anemic, has been lengthy by historical standards. Were due for a downturn. Admittedly, some of the policies currently being debated in Congress, such as tax reform and regulatory relief, would boost economic growth in the long run. But that doesnt mean they would necessarily forestall a cyclical recession in the short run.

Moreover, there is risk emanating from Pennsylvania Avenue. While new President Donald Trump says he favors domestic tax reform and regulatory relief, he also advocates tariffs (which are taxes) and other trade restrictions (regulations) that could hamper economic growth or even trigger a recession themselves.

The North Carolina General Assemblys Legislative Research Commission has already endorsed the idea of raising the states rainy-day fund target from the current 8 percent of annual operating revenue to roughly 12 percent. That sounds about right. Building a 12 percent reserve would ensure that, if a moderate-to-severe national recession washed over North Carolina, state policymakers could pay the bills, maintain core public services, and resist the siren song of hiking state taxes during downturns. (Past Democratic governors and legislatures yielded to that temptation, to the states detriment as well as their own.)

Recessionary prospects arent the only reasons to save. North Carolinas state health plan and pension fund are underfunded by billions of dollars. Past politicians promised generous benefits to teachers and state employees while pretending those promises had little cost. Todays politicians must exercise fiscal restraint so the promises can be kept.

Itll be good to run another surplus. Itll be great if it doesnt get squandered.

John Hood is chairman of the John Locke Foundation and appears on the talk show NC SPIN. You can follow him @JohnHoodNC.
Mount Pleasant, SC (29464)

Today

Mostly cloudy skies. Slight chance of a rain shower. High around 80F. Winds SE at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Mainly cloudy. Low 69F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph.
Lario Oil & Gas Co. is not only celebrating 90 years in business but more than 70 years in the Permian Basin. And the company is buying itself a birthday gift.

The company and its affiliate, Lario Permian, have entered into multiple agreements with unnamed sellers to purchase more than 10,000 net acres primarily in Midland and Martin counties, in the northern Midland Basin, for approximately $345 million.

Current net production from the assets is approximately 1,850 barrels of oil equivalent per day and includes hundreds of drilling locations in its Spraberry and Wolfcamp targets.

Mike OShaughnessy, Larios chief executive officer, said in a phone interview from his Denver office that the company had exited the Delaware Basin to focus on what we believe is the best subbasin in the Permian with solid infrastructure, multiple proven benches and some of the best economics in the country.

While it sounds like everyone is making deals in the Delaware, we felt we didnt have enough scale in the Delaware. We felt it was best to focus on one basin, he said.

He called the Midland basin the rock star in the industry.

He said the Midland basin also has enough infrastructure around us to make getting Larios production to market easier.

Lario has one rig running in the area, and OShaughnessy said the company plans to keep that one rig busy and has plans to drill seven to 12 horizontal wells this year. The goal is for all of the horizontals to have two-mile laterals, he said. The target is the Wolfcamp A and B and also to drill the Spraberry and the Wolfcamp D, OShaughnessy said.

We have two nice wells completed and were drilling two more, with several teed up, he said.

We have a good production base. Were getting very aggressive and ready to drill locations, the CEO said.

He said the company could add more rigs later in the year, but will definitely continue ramping up its future rig count with a goal of operating four rigs by 2019.

The downturn that began with falling oil prices in 2014 is nothing new to the 90-year-old company.

Were cycle-tested, he said.

Larios roots go back to 1916 with the founding of Globe Oil and Refining Co. in Oklahoma by I.A. OShaughnessy, the youngest of 13 children born to Irish immigrants.

Lario was founded in 1927 in Wichita, Kansas, and provided feedstock for Globes refinery business, said OShaughnessy, I.A. OShaughnessys grandson. His son, Ryan, the fourth generation to work at the company, serves as executive vice president of Lario Oil and president of Lario Permian.

Two companies were integrated and became one of that times largest independent energy companies. The company then focused on Kansas and Oklahoma until the 1940s.

Beginning in the 1940s, Lario expanded its focus from the Mid-Continent to other areas, including the Permian, where it opened a second office in Midland.

In the 1960s, Lario expanded its focus again, opening an office in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, where it operated for the next 50 years, and also into the Rocky Mountains with the 1977 opening of a Denver office, and the Powder River and Williston basins.

When Lario first began drilling in the Permian, OShaughnessy said the focus was on conventional resources. The companys first horizontal well was drilled in 2015 and completed the next year.

OShaughnessy said Larios main focus will be the Permian and the Bakken.

Due to oil pricing, everything we have is held by production, so theres no sense of urgency to drill  were waiting on better prices, he said of the companys Bakken holdings.

Dating back to its early days, the company still has a large position in western Kansas and is drilling there as well as focusing on waterfloods.

We have a strong team in Wichita, he said.
The Permian Basin land rush is spreading to oil and gas pipelines.

Plains All American Pipeline said it will expand its crude oil gathering system in Americas hottest shale play through a $1.2 billion purchase from Concho Resources Inc. and Frontier Midstream Solutions. The Alpha Crude Connector System is located in the oil-rich northern portion of the Permian's Delaware Basin and will serve to expand the volume that the company is able to move from West Texas to Corpus Christi and other delivery points, Plains said Tuesday.

The deal is the latest of many in the Permian, the largest and most prolific oil field in the U.S., as its crude-soaked layers of rock have delivered good returns for producers even during the market crash. On Monday, Targa Resources Corp. agreed to buy a set of pipelines in the region from Outrigger Energy for as much as $1.5 billion. The Permians oil production has almost doubled since 2012, while the natural gas that comes along with the crude has also turned it into the second-richest gas play in the country.

We expect aggregate crude oil production on the dedicated acreage to double over the next two to three years, Greg Armstrong, chairman and chief executive officer of Plains, said in the statement. We believe overall Permian Basin crude oil volumes have the potential to grow as much as 50 percent or more during this same time period.

The deal is expected to close during the first half of 2017. Plains also announced the sale of unrelated assets, including a gas storage facility in Michigan and a pipeline segment in the Midwest, for $380 million.

BridgeTex Pipeline Company, in which Plains owns a 50 percent interest, said Monday it will expand its line from Colorado City, Texas, to Houston to help transport approximately 400,000 barrels a day.

Concho Resources sees net cash proceeds of about $800 million from the sale. The driller plans to use the proceeds to redeploy capital into our drilling program, fund future acquisitions and reduce long-term debt, Tim Leach, Concho's chairman, CEO and president, said in a statement.

Moodys placed Plains All American's Baa3 rating under review for downgrade after the deal was announced. The $1.2 billion acquisition will be significantly funded by debt initially, resulting in continued high leverage, according to Moodys. Fitch Ratings views the acquisition as neutral, maintaining a BBB rating with a negative outlook.

Jefferies Group and Norton Rose Fulbright advised Plains All American on the deal. Simmons & Co., a division of Piper Jaffray Cos, and Vinson & Elkins advised the sellers.
French President Francois Hollande said Europe must "engage in a firm dialogue" with the US with a goal towards solving global problems (AFP Photo/Adam BERRY)

Lisbon (AFP) - French President Francois Hollande urged Europe to form a united front and provide a "firm" response to US President Donald Trump, at a gathering Saturday of southern European Union leaders.

"We must conduct firm dialogue with the new American administration which has shown it has its own approach to the problems we all face," he said at the end of the gathering as he was flanked by the other leaders who took part.

Trump has rattled America's traditional European allies with a range of radical policy plans.

He has called NATO "obsolete", announced he would rip up a planned transatlantic trade plan and supported Britain's move to leave the EU, praising the decision as "a wonderful thing" during a meeting Friday with British Prime Minister Theresa May.

On Friday he also signed a sweeping executive order to suspend the arrival of refugees and impose tough controls on travellers from seven Muslim countries.

"When he adopts protectionist measures, which could destabilise economies not just in Europe but the economies of the main countries of the world, we have to respond," Hollande added.

"And when he refuses the arrival of refugees, while Europe has done its duty, we have to respond."

Trump was due to speak Saturday with Hollande, as well as German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

- Ready to cooperate with Trump -

While officially the new administration in Washington was not on the agenda, the six other European leaders who took part in the summit also alluded to Trump.

Italian Prime Minister Paolo Gentiloni said Europe was "ready, interested and willing to cooperate" with the Trump administration.

"But we are Europe, and we cherish our values," he added.

Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy defended the EU project, saying it had helped transform Europe into the world region with the "highest level of progress, civil rights and well being".

Story continues

Also meeting in Lisbon were the leaders of Malta, Cyprus, Greece and Portugal.

The summit was a follow up to a first gathering in Athens in September 2016 as part of a push by Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras to create a strong southern "axis" to counter the influence of nations in northern Europe.

The group is often referred to -- sometimes dismissively -- as "Club Med", even though one of its members, Portugal, is not on the Mediterranean.

It includes some of the nations hardest hit by the financial crisis.

Portugal and Greece both needed international bailouts worth tens of billions of euros which came with demands for tough austerity measures and economic reforms.

- Boost investment -

As in the first meeting in Greece, the mostly centre-left leaders gathered in Portugal urged Brussels to do more to boost flagging growth in the bloc.

A joint declaration signed by the participating countries said the EU should boost funding for strategic investment.

"We share the urgency of promoting investment, growth, employment, with a special focus on youth employment," it read.

The Lisbon summit comes ahead of a February 3 meeting of EU leaders in Malta to look at the future of the bloc without Britain, its second-largest economy and its richest financial centre.

Rajoy said Madrid would host a third summit of southern EU nations in April.

"These countries meet informally and they have no other goal other than to work for the people of the entire European Union," he said.

The goal is not to create an "organisation" inside Europe but to act "in the service of the entire European Union," added Hollande.

The so-called Visegrad group -- made up of Hungary, Slovakia, the Czech Republic and Poland -- have also held their own meetings to present a united front.
"After I left the last treatment center, I knew what made me happy," Selena explains, "and it was a connection." But on the advice of her doctor, Selena's planned philanthropic visit to Kenya to see the schools she was helping to raise
New members inducted into Institute of ...
Sacramento, CA  Another attempt is underway to for California to become a separate country.

A petition has been submitted to state election officials that would ask voters to repeal part of the state constitution, which declares California an inseparable part of the United States. If the proposal qualifies for the ballot and is voter approved, it could bring about another vote on whether California should break away from the U.S.

The Secretary of States Office notes that if California actually became an independent nation, the state and its local governments would experience major, but unknown, budgetary impacts. Subsequently there would also be tens of millions of dollars of one-time state and local election costs.

The proponent of the measure has 180 days to circulate the petition and must collect 585,407 registered voters signatures.
By Ange Aboa ABIDJAN (Reuters) - Members of an Ivory Coast cocoa exporters association will default on around 80,000 tonnes of export contracts after they failed to lock in prices with counterparties amid speculation global prices would rise, association officials said on Friday. "Our defaults aren't more than 80,000 tonnes. It's around there," Raymond Koffi - president of the GIE-PMIEX-COOPEX exporter group, which includes 16 local export companies - told Reuters. The admission by Koffi is the first time exporters have publicly acknowledged potential defaults since Ivory Coast began selling forward its cocoa crop in 2012. Speculation by local exporters, who secured volumes at auction before a price drop last year, has already caused a glut in the top grower as companies now hold export permits for beans they can no longer afford. European traders said the failure of local traders to execute on contracts had led to port arrivals data not fully reflecting the large volume of cocoa being harvested this season with the reports exacerbating an already bearish mood in the market. New York cocoa futures fell to their lowest in almost four years on Friday on concerns about excess supplies. [SOF/L] Under the system in the Ivory Coast, exporters bid on permits to export specific volumes at an agreed price, and the marketing board, the Coffee and Cocoa Council (CCC), then uses the average auction price to set a guaranteed price for farmers. That price was fixed at 1,100 CFA francs ($1.78) per kg at the start of the current season on Oct. 1. According to CCC regulations, exporters must provide it with a counterparty contract locking in prices. The measure is aimed at preventing defaults caused by speculation that would risk undermining the farmer price. However, Koffi, who also represents exporters on the CCC's board, said many companies have simply presented contracts to the CCC while making side agreements with their clients. "I tell you there are flat price contracts and there are arrangements certain exporters make with their clients to say that they are really price-to-be-fixed contracts," he said. Ivory Coast is forecasting October-to-March main crop output of 1.3 million tonnes of beans. The April-to-September mid-crop is reserved for domestically based processors. "NO ONE WAS COMPLAINING" CCC officials did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for comment. However its head of sales, Eric Koffi, told Reuters earlier this week that the CCC verified counterparty contracts furnished by exporters. However, Koffi and GIE-PMIEX-COOPEX's secretary-general Martyr Djikalou said such arrangement have been common practice since the forward sales system was introduced in 2012. "As the market was rising for four years, we always did that and it worked very well," Djikalou said. "No one was complaining. Now that the market is falling, that same attitude is creating problems for us." GIE-PMIEX-COOPEX is one of four exporters' groups in Ivory Coast and Koffi and Djikalou told Reuters that speculation had not been limited to their members. An exporter with one of the other associations said its members would likely default on 20,000 to 30,000 tonnes of contracts for the same reason. Other exporters, who asked not to be named, said the total volumes likely to be in default could be much higher. To avoid widespread defaults, GIE-PMIEX-COOPEX called upon the CCC to lower the farmer price to between 750 and 800 CFA francs/kg. They said they could then negotiate new counterparty contracts and begin buying beans again. "Someone has to take on the cost of all this. It's going to be the sector. Our contribution to the debate is to say that we're not the ones who will pay. If you pin this all on us, you kill us," said Djikalou. ($1 = 617.2300 CFA francs) (Additional reporting by Nigel Hunt in London; Writing by Joe Bavier, editing by David Evans)
Governor Brown with Katie Morelos and her baby goat at the Mother Lode Fair View Photos

Sacramento, CA  Governor Jerry Brown will undergo further treatment for prostate cancer.

The Governors office released this statement from Browns Oncologist at the University of California, San Francisco Medical Center, Dr. Eric Small:

Fortunately this is not extensive disease, can be readily treated with a short course of radiotherapy, and there are not expected to be any significant side effects. The prognosis for Governor Brown is excellent.

Treatment will begin late February and run into early March. The Governor is expected to continue his full work schedule during that time.
When you hear Gasparilla, you probably think of beads, beer, and booty.

Gasparilla parade inspired by Spanish pirate Jose Gaspar

Gaspar spend two decades terrorizing the waters

He died in 1821 after fighting a US Navy ship

RELATED: Gasparilla takes over downtown Tampa

However, the parade, which started in 1904, has a historical root. Its inspired by Spanish pirate Jose Gaspar.

"He was born in Spain in 1756 and he entered a Spanish Naval Academy, graduated with high honors and immediately joined the Spanish Navy, Tina Malasics, the operations assistant at the Gasparilla Inn and Club, said.

Gasparilla Island sits off the coast of Southwest Florida, near Boca Grande. It was named for Gaspar after he and a group of pirates known as the Brotherhood built a village on the island.

As a young commander in the Spanish Navy, other navy men launched a plot to overthrow Gaspar. They ambushed his ship that was carrying Queen Isabelles jewelry and told the Queen Gaspar faked the ambush and stole the jewelry for himself.

Gaspars family was executed.

Gaspar then snuck into a Spanish jail and freed 25 men, who became the Brotherhood, and fled Spain.

"Ironically the name of that ship was the Florida Blanca, go figure, Malasics said.

The pirates spent the next two decades terrorizing the waters.

"In 1821, they decided its probably time to hang it up, time to retire, Malasics said. "So they returned to Gasparilla Island and proceeded to break down their village and share the wealth. Spread the treasure among the men.

But when the pirates heard of an oncoming ship, they decided to go for one last fight. The ship turned out to be a US Navy Ship and under heavy fire Gaspar announced he would not die by enemy hand.

He takes the anchor chain from the ship, tied it around his waist and jumped off the boat, thus ending the story of Jose Gaspar, Malasics said.

Legend has it the surviving pirates sailed south, burying treasure along the way. People are still looking for that treasure today.
A search for a more meaningful career and a budding fascination for healthcare eventually led Greg Curry to opportunity to help so many on the South Plains.

I enjoy doing this so much, said Curry, who has served the past six months working as a family nurse practitioner at Covenant Health Plainview.

I enjoy the interaction with patients and the opportunity to be a part of their healthcare.

Though he has only worked as a nurse practitioner for less than a year, Curry has provided care all over the Plainview hospital for more than five years.

I started in Plainview as a registered nurse back in 2012, Curry explained.

But before then, Curry lived an extremely different life, one far away from patients and health care.

In the 1980s I received my degree in anthropology from the University of North Texas, Curry said.

Curry explained he was always intrigued with the study of human societies, their cultures and their development.

In the 1990s, Curry explained he wanted to take his love for anthropology to a higher level and became a PhD candidate in forensic anthropology at the University of New Mexico.

With forensic anthropology, Curry worked with ancient and modern human remains to discover who they were and details like their ethnicity and their culture.

Curry could tell such details just by looking at microscopic changes in the bone structures of human remains.

Unfortunately, Curry said the PhD program at UNM would dissolve while he was going to school.

Explaining that he was extremely disheartened by the shutting down of the program, Curry choose to take a break from anthropology, deciding to enter the business world.

Curry said he worked mostly in sales and eventually moved to Lubbock where he has lived for the past 25 years.

During his free time, Curry said he kept busy. This included working as a part-time massage therapist and volunteering as a scoutmaster for a troop of Boy Scouts.

It was during his 20 years as a Boy Scout leader that Curry started to gain an interest in healthcare.

Over the years, during our outdoor adventures, I had seen quite a bit of injuries, explained Curry.

Feeling he wasnt quite prepared for treating severe injuries, Curry said he enrolled into an intensive wilderness first aid class at Texas Tech University.

The 10-day course lit a spark in Curry; drawing him into a life in the medical field.

I remember I came home and told my wife I thought the course was great and I wanted to look into doing that, Curry said.

Curry said he felt unfulfilled in his sales career which prompted him to start researching a different way of life.

It was then that Curry said he found a one-year RN/BSN program at Texas Tech.

I felt this was a great opportunity to achieve some personal growth, Curry said.

Curry earned his nursing degree quickly and worked some in the community wellness program at UMC in Lubbock. However, Curry said he knew he wanted more and knew eventually he wanted to pursue a nurse practitioner degree.

Curry wanted experience. He wanted to engulf himself in every aspect of medical care, from the specialized care needed from nurses in ICU to the fast paced, quick thinking environment of the emergency department.

Curry decided Covenant Health Plainview was the perfect place to gain that experience. A facility with advanced and specialized capabilities but nestled in a small town community hospital.

I thought it would be a great place for me to cross train in all aspects of health care and medicine, Curry said.

And Curry did just that, starting at the Plainview hospital in 2012, floating mainly in Intensive Care, Emergency and Labor and Delivery departments.

Six months after his start date, Curry returned to school to earn his practitioner degree.

In 2016, Curry earned his MSN/FNP degree from West Texas A&M University and landed a job in the office of longtime Plainview physician Sergio Lara, M.D.

I had other offers, but I wanted to stay in Plainview. I like the community and I feel my presence can really make a difference, Curry said.

Curry said he enjoys working with Lara and is happy for the opportunity to work in internal medicine.

Its a completely different aspect of healthcare, added Curry.

On his free time, Curry is still a scoutmaster for Troop 536 in Lubbock and is also involved in anthropology missions.

Just last year, Curry said he visited the county of Belize where he helped build a church and complete a fresh water project.
During the quarterly meeting of the Plainview/Hale County Economic Development Corp. on Thursday, Mayor Wendell Dunlap noted that it has been four years since the Cargill plant shut down in Plainview.

Since then, the city and county have regrouped and look for a brighter future.

At Thursdays meeting Danny Glenn took the gavel for the last time, as V.O. Ortega replaced him as president. The group also honored Norman Wright, longtime Plainview leader in banking, insurance and community service, with the Jack Morris Economic Development and Leadership Award.

In his financial report, Glenn reported total net assets of $742,479.11. The Plainview/Hale County Industrial Foundation had an increase in net assets of $34,358.46 for a yearend total of $712,868.39.

Mike Fox, EDC executive director, said that considering Plainview competes with cities that receive a percent of sales tax revenues, We do a lot with what we have to work with.

Fox thanked the Plainview Chamber of Commerce and the City of Plainview for their support as well as the EDC board of directors and the media.

At 5.3 percent, unemployment is up a little, Fox said, due to seasonal changes in the workforce, but in general, More companies are looking for workers than are laying off workers.

The 2016 sales tax revenues were off slightly, but Fox attributed that to 2015 being an unusually good year due to the wind turbines coming in.

I expect 2017 to be outstanding as far as sales taxes, Fox said.

Fox spoke of meeting with High Ground of Texas and the continued interest in the Ports to Plains Corridor, a four-lane highway stretching from the Mexican border to Alberta, Canada, which would relieve congestion along I-35.

Theyre looking at Plainview for that, Fox said.

Fox spoke of working with General Electric to turn Plainview into a wind friendly community.

We need to encourage, embrace and take full advantage of that, he said.

Fox spoke of one disappointment during the year, a food processing company which, he was warned, will break your heart. He had barely finished the application process when he learned that Texas had been eliminated from consideration.

Things are looking better in the railroad sector. Fox said that along with Parkhill, Smith and Cooper, the EDC is working with BNSF Railway to tout Plainview with industrial prospects.

The Cargill plant may find use again, as EDC is working with real estate contractor CBRE to market the plant.

During a membership drive, EDC added 16 new members.

With a $1 million grant, EDC is looking to develop the Plainview Business Park and has been in contact with Lubbock and Levelland to find out how their business parks work.

Adalucia Nut Company has been running in Plainview for five years in the old U.S. Fiberglass building. Headquartered in Houston, the company employs 12 people and hires temporary help. When the company goes into producing nut butters, such as peanut butter, it should be in full operation and employ 50 to 70 people by the end of the year, Fox said.

EDC is working with Site Location Partnership, which goes out to entities and sends a list of suspects to Fox so that he can look into the possibility of these companies locating in Plainview. The year 2016 produced 14 suspects that are now being researched.

Fox expressed confidence for 2017 saying there is momentum. The EDC received a $1 million grant for the business park, construction is about to being on the Hale Community Wind LLC project, MRE Capital is in the process of converting the old Hilton into Conrad Arms Apartments and the Covenant Health has received a grant for expansion and renovation.

For the Wal-Mart Distribution Centers 30th anniversary, the EDC joined with the city, county and other groups to feed 4,000 people by cooking 3,250 hamburgers and 1,000 hotdogs. Fox said business retention is an important factor in EDCs work.

Bill Wells Chevrolet moved to a new location in 2016, Stripes opened a new store, Reagor-Dykes Toyota opened, the Royal Splash Water Park is under construction, and the Hitchin Post RV Park is should be open this spring.

We have a lot to look forward to, Fox concluded.

In committee reports, Dunlap mentioned the business park, with a preliminary design estimated at $11 million. An update to the Travis Trussell Duck Pond is contemplated thanks to a $250,000 grant. Benches and lights are being considered and one big display for donors, rather than individual plaques. Also, one fence might be taken down so that people can get closer to the water. Crossing signs were also mentioned.

Dunlap congratulated Plainview Police Department for receiving the Best Practices Recognized Law Enforcement Award from Texas Police Chiefs Association Law Enforcement Recognition Program. The Plainview Police Department becomes only the 134th agency in the state to be so recognized, placing it in the top 6 percent of all Texas agencies to reach this goal, Dunlap said.

County Judge Bill Coleman spoke of the challenge of getting the legal authority to remove derelict tires from a piece of property. We have the responsibility to deal with this environmental and safety hazard, he said. He credited PISD Superintendent Dr. Rocky Kirk with helping to meet this challenge.

Linda Morris, Chamber of Commerce executive director, spoke of partnering with TxDOT and TDCJ to get the interstate mowed, weeds trimmed and trash picked up. She mentioned the Chambers updated website with rotating images of the citys trademark cows. Along with the EDC, the city held a town hall meeting with Jodey Arrington. This years Christmas Parade had 91 entries, the most ever.

The Annual Chamber Banquet will be Feb. 16.

Gracie Quinonez of South Plains College-Plainview said enrollment during the second week of the semester was a little low and they are looking into how to recoup that downturn. Lubbock Center is looking at SPC-Plainview as a model for its facility. The college hopes to hope to add culinary to its curriculum by the spring of 2018.

Quinonez mentioned many of its course offerings including customized training for customer service programs, CNA, phlebotomy, electrician, home wiring and a welding class held during the evening. Summer registration will take place in the middle of February and registration for 2017-2018 will be April 4.

Speaking for PISD, Kirk spoke of the possibility of a culinary program. He hopes income generated by wind energy farms with help get a new school.

Dennis Burton of Hale Center said grants were in place for a nature trail around lake and a new animal shelter. He announced that sales taxes were ahead of last year.

Taking over the gavel, new EDC president Ortega said he hopes we can continue the momentum during the coming year.
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In the last article, Steve Patti recalled stories about his time flying in the Civil Air Patrol from Marfa Army Airfield, Auxiliary Field Number 2.

The CAP missions flying out of Marfa were tasked with patrolling the uninhabited areas of the U.S.-Mexican border along the Rio Grande. Steve Pattis primary job was as an aircraft mechanic in the Civil Air Patrol. However, he did go on several missions along the Rio Grande as an observer.

Mechanics didnt get any briefing if they were going to go to work in the shop.

If he was going to go on mission, you wouldnt be wearing your overalls; you would dress in khaki shirt and pants and wear a jacket or something.

Marfa was an auxiliary (base). The main point of flight was either Del Rio, El Paso, or Brownsville/San Benito. They were the major flight command centers for the CAP, explained Patti.

Although Auxiliary Field Number 2 was technically a part of the USAAF air base at Marfa Army Airfield, the CAP was the only entity to use it as an auxiliary airfield and refueling base. However, if a USAAF aircraft experienced an emergency and was forced to land there, then the airfield was available for them to use, too.

There is a picture of some of the guys with a fire truck on loan from Marfa Air Base.

The take-off times were varied. We would never take off at the same time every day. We were supposed to be an incognito type thing that nobody could time us and say, Well we know the airplanes are going to be coming; so well wait and go across the border after he leaves.

So, we were never going across the same point at the same time every day. It varied from time to time. You know, the element of surprise, he continued.

It would vary on how close the two landing points were. Usually, it was an hour and a half or two hours each way.

It would typically take about half an hour to reach the Rio Grande from Marfa, Patti figured.

Depending on what they decided for that day, where and how far you were going to go between the two bases (El Paso and Brownville / San Benito), he explained referring to their assigned patrol pattern each day.

We werent allowed to cross over and fly over Mexico. We were right on the fringe of the border by just flying over the river (Rio Grande).

The roads were like a dyke or causeway just right along the river.

When asked about the duration of the patrol flights, Patti replied, It would be several hours depending on where you were going. Usually, a couple of hours of flight time and then you would turn around and go back to your base.

He also said that none of the planes in which he flew were ever forced down due to mechanical failure while on a mission. However, he did recall one mission in which a fuel problem occurred that forced a CAP plane down and resulted in a wreck.

There was one incident that they were having a fuel problem on the border with a Stinson 10A. They made an emergency landing along the river on a sandbar. There was a tree there, at one time on the sandbar; somebody cut the tree down but they left the stump. They didnt take the stump out. When the plane was landing, everything was under control; but when the guy was landing, he straddled  with his main gear  he straddled the stump, and his tail wheel hit the stump and it flipped him upside down.

I went out on recovery as a mechanic. Theres several of us went down on the river in the Big Bend country (to the aircraft) that had to make a forced landing; unfortunately, the airplane flipped over on its back.

We hired a guide and we drove there from Marfa; and we hired a guide to take us down to the area where we knew the airplane was and he knew the back roads and trails and stuff.

He carried a rifle in his jeep. We disassembled the airplane. We took the wings off. I took the brake pads out of both wheels. Put the tail on the back of the jeep and tied it down and we hauled it out up onto the road. We loaded the wings on a flatbed truck and then put the fuselage on top of that. The wings were just narrow enough that the wheels didnt sit on the wings. We had a little trailer with it we also had from the Marfa Air Corps base.

Im in coveralls and there are several other guys in coveralls; but then we had some observers and pilots who came down and helped out to get the airplane back up on the main road, Patti explained about some of the photographs of the recovery mission.

Patti was not sure if this CAP plane that flipped over originated out of the Marfa auxiliary base or another airfield.

They got a little bruised up; but they werent fatally injured.

Talking more about the observation missions, Patti said that although they carried submachine guns and handguns on their CAP flights, they never had to open fire on any person or car on the ground. If a vehicle had a license plate, then he would write down the license plate number.

When we landed back at our home base, wed give the information to our intelligence officer.

When asked if he knew whether the intelligence officer ever passed on the data that Patti gathered during his missions to a local sheriffs office or the city police, he replied, Im sure they did; but my interest and responsibility ended when I had that dialogue with the intelligence officer.

He also said that neither CAP nor the USAAF gave him an official form on which to keep notations of his aerial observations along the border.

It was just a blank sheet of paper.

The one occasion that I recall was that there was this car, it was a four-door sedan on the Mexican side, the road paralleled the river and the river was kind of straight in that particular section.

And you just kind of get an idea of how many people are in the car, and I think there were like four people in the car, if I recall.

I dont recall any other parts of it other than he was travelling north and he was going fast enough on this dirt road that he had a cloud of dust behind him. So, Im going to say that he was doing over 45 miles an hour.

We just followed him briefly. The pilot put his flaps down and did slow flight which in a Stinson 10A is just above a stall which is about 45 miles an hour.

A day came to an end in the early evening. A lot would depend on the weather. If the weather was rainy and so forth, we didnt do much.

If it was snowing, we didnt do much. We tried to stay warm.

More about the history of Finney Field and the CAP will be discussed in the next article.

Readers are asked to visit the Breedlove-CPTP website at www.breedlove-cptp.com for more details about the glider program of WWII.

Anyone with information about the Plainview Pre-Glider School at Finney Field should contact John McCullough at (806) 793-4448 or email johnmc@breedlove-cptp.org.
AUSTIN -- The Senate Finance Committee began public hearings for the 85th Legislature this week, setting in motion a process that will result in billions of dollars in state and federal money being divided between all state agencies and public services. It's going to be a harder task this session as budget writers have less revenue to use than last session, per the Comptroller's revenue estimate released at the beginning of January. Finance Committee Chair Jane Nelson of Flower Mound opened the process on Monday by appointing special workgroups to concentrate to the two biggest slices of the state budget, health care spending and education.

The first would look at spending for public education, under the leadership of Senate Education Committee Chair Larry Taylor of Friendswood. Last July, the State Supreme Court denied the latest challenge to the constitutionality of the school finance system, but said in its decision that the current system only meets the minimum standards set out in the Constitution. Nelson wants something better. "We need to have a whole new method of school finance," she said. "No more Band-Aids. We need to start over." She directed Taylor and his workgroup to come up with a new system, one that is easier to understand, innovative and meets the needs of Texas students.
AUSTIN - In an effort to enhance mobility and support interstate trade, the Texas Transportation Commission, at its January meeting, approved the designation of a 25-mile segment of the state highway system as Interstate14.

This is the first segment of I-14 to be designated in Texas. It will run jointly with US 190 from the intersection of US 190 and Business US 190 E in Copperas Cove to Interstate 35 in Belton.
Twenty-seven DECA members at Plainview High School will compete in the State Career Development Conference in San Antonio on Feb. 23-25.

The students qualified for state competition by placing in the District 8 Career Development Conference held at Amarillo College on Jan. 20. In all, 42 Plainview High school students participated in the District 8 competition.
DELRAY BEACH, FL / ACCESSWIRE / January 27, 2017 / The Jaffe Eye Institute announced today that one of its founding doctors, ophthalmologist Emery Jaffe, MD, has written an article describing common eye problems and new approaches for successfully treating those conditions. Dr. Jaffe, a respected cataract and glaucoma specialist in the Miami area. His patients struggle with contact lens wear as they age. In the eye health article, Dr. Jaffe describes how he is using a new eyelid hygiene product called Avenova by NovaBay Pharmaceuticals (NYSE MKT: NBY) to successfully manage contact lens intolerance patient cases.

In the article, Dr. Jaffe tells the story of a patient named Susan. As a child, she was diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, which caused cataracts and severe eye inflammation. She lost the sight in her left eye, and needed cataract surgery on her right eye. To restore her vision, doctors fitted Susan with a hard contact lens for her right eye.

But "over time, problems with the hard contact lens developed," Dr. Jaffe writes. "Debris in her eye blurred her vision, and she felt sensations of something foreign in her eye." At times, her eye was so irritated and inflamed that using her contact lens became painful and difficult.

Susan represents a relatively extreme case of a problem called contact lens intolerance, Dr. Jaffe explains. But the general problem is surprisingly common. About fifteen percent of people suffer from eye discomfort and dryness that is exacerbated when they try to wear their contact lenses. "In addition to Susan, the older patient demographic of my practice makes this a common problem with contact lens wearers," he writes.

In the article, Jaffe explains the underlying causes of contract lens intolerance and related problems. As he describes, "The causes include the build-up of debris in the eye that Susan suffered from and dry eye, a condition where the eye lacks its usual film of protective tears."

Story continues

Both of those problems are linked to bacteria and tiny parasitic mites that irritate sensitive eye tissue, causing pain and inflammation, along with the build-up of debris.

But now, Dr. Jaffe writes, doctors have a better way of fighting those microbes - a new eyelid hygiene product called Avenova with Neutrox from NovaBay Pharmaceuticals. "Its key ingredient is a formulation of pure hypochlorous acid," Dr. Jaffe explains. "Wiping the eyes with hypochlorous acid removes the debris and reduces the bacteria and the mites, reducing chances of infections and improving comfort."

Wiping her eyes twice daily with NovaBay's Avenova worked very well for Susan, Dr. Jaffe reports: "Within days, her pain, inflammation, and eye debris virtually vanished. She is now able to wear her contact lens without any discomfort - giving her excellent vision from her one good eye."

The same treatment has brought, "similar impressive results with many other patients suffering from contact lens intolerance," Dr. Jaffe adds.

Contact:

Emery Jaffe, MD

Jaffe Eye Institute

Email: dremery@jaffe-eye.com

SOURCE: Jaffe Eye Institute
PLAINVILLE  A New Britain man faces charges after police say he gave a false name and age when police were investigating a report of shoplifting at a local grocery store.



Joseph Vigo, 24, of 16 Lyons St., New Britain, was arrested Thursday and charged with second-degree forgery, interfering with an officer, sixth-degree larceny and conspiracy.



On Oct. 28, police were investigating a report of shoplifting at Big Y in Plainville when an officer stopped to question a man and woman in connection with the incident, according to a police report. The man, later identified as Vigo, gave police a false name and age, the report said. The officers charged him under the false name and he was initially released on bond, the report noted.



The woman, who is not identified in the report, later told police that Vigo gave them a false name, the report said. Police checked Vigos fingerprints against a database and confirmed his identity. Police also discovered Vigo had two outstanding warrants from Bristol and Plymouth, the report said. The details of those warrants were not immediately available.



Vigo was arraigned in Bristol Superior Court on Thursday. He is held in lieu of $30,000 bond and is scheduled back in court on March 1.










Anguish turned to hope for immigrant families Saturday night when a federal judge barred the government from enforcing President Trumps order preventing scores of people from Muslim-majority countries from entering the U.S.

Before the ruling, Saturday was a day of confusion and consternation at airports across the nation as families suddenly found themselves cut off from friends and relatives who were traveling outside the country when Trump signed the order Friday.

At San Francisco International Airport, one woman had waited six years to see her son, and the airport was supposed to be the scene of their reunion Saturday. They were going to rent a boat, tour the city, share a meal and plan his wedding in California.

But those plans went awry when customs officials notified her that her son, an Iranian who arrived in the U.S. with a visa, was being sent back to the Middle East because of Trumps ban.

She screamed. She cried. She stood in the airport, confused about what to do. They wouldnt let her see her son.

We told him once you are here, everything is nice  when you get here you will be free. Everything is totally different. He came here ... but he got stuck in a room, she said. She requested that her name not be disclosed because her son is in danger of religious persecution in Iran. The family is not Muslim.

This is going to kill me, she said. My heart is broken. I thought here was freedom.

Some families, workers and students who traveled to the U.S. Saturday were being detained and barred from leaving airports. Overseas, others were prevented from even boarding flights to the U.S.

But then late Saturday, a federal judge in New York issued the injunction stopping the government from enforcing Trumps order against people with valid visas. The news quickly reached a crowd of thousands of protesters who had gathered at the airport, bringing loud cheers and applause.

This ruling preserves the status quo and ensures that people who have been granted permission to be in this country are not illegally removed off U.S. soil, said Lee Gelernt, deputy director of the ACLUs Immigrants Rights Project.

The whipsaw turns marked a day of turmoil. Civil rights groups had filed the New York lawsuit challenging Trumps order, while lawyers were on standby in places such as San Francisco as immigrants from countries listed in the order flew into the country.

Susie Hwang, one of several attorneys at SFO attempting to help the woman and her son, said they were being denied access to him. By late afternoon, attorneys knew of a handful of others who had been detained at the airport.

Its really important they get the support they need, she said. We are not going to accept no for an answer.

Two Iranians who had green cards and had been detained were released later Saturday, according to Hwang.

Trumps executive order was met with sweeping condemnation from immigration advocates and public officials. By Saturday evening, mass protests had spread across the country and public officials, such as Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Rep. John Lewis, D-Ga., were at their local airports.

Make no mistake  this is a Muslim ban, Sen. Kamala Harris, D-Calif., said in a statement Friday. Opening our doors to those fleeing war and oppression has been the policy of presidents of both parties for decades.

The order, which temporarily bans almost all immigration, apparently including people with H-1B visas, from Iran, Sudan, Syria, Iraq, Somalia, Yemen and Libya, also suspends refugee admissions for months, while Syrian refugees are barred indefinitely.

The ban could affect hundreds of thousands of people, but confusion remained about exactly how the order was being implemented. A Department of Homeland Security official told Reuters that the ban applied even to green card holders from the seven countries. But a senior Trump administration official said green card holders will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas, Trump said Friday when he signed the order at the Pentagon. We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people.

The confusion caused Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Burbank, to send a letter to the head of Homeland Security asking the department make available a full explanation of the order and its implications for travelers.

No immigrants from the countries cited in the order have committed lethal terrorist attacks in the U.S. in the past 15 years, said Albert Ford, a research assistant at New America, a nonpartisan think tank.

On Saturday, Trump told reporters that the order is not a Muslim ban.

We were totally prepared, he said. Its working out very nicely. You see it at the airports, you see it all over.

But a former Homeland Security official who had been in contact with former colleagues this weekend said immigration officials did not want to be enforcing this.

Theyre trying to figure out what theyre supposed to do. This is so far outside the norm, said the former official, who asked that his name not be used. Theyre really struggling in trying to figure it out.

Meanwhile, families from across California were fearing the worst.

Two months ago, Aidin was celebrating the birth of his son. On Saturday, he was in his Walnut Creek home, terrified that his wife, who has a green card but is currently in Iran, will not be able to return to her family.

Im broken, he said, crying.

Aidin, 32, is a software engineer who moved to the United States 10 years ago and is now a U.S. citizen. He requested that his last name not be disclosed.

He spent Friday night researching the order and writing letters to politicians when his wife called: I want to be there. I cant be like this, she told him as she wept.

His wife had gone for a short trip to Iran for surgery and to visit family. She had planned to come back Feb. 5.

Im a law-abiding citizen, Aidin said. I am a big fan of American values  I dont know why they are doing this to me.

Mozhgan Mostafavi, a 46-year-old Novato resident, had been at San Francisco International Airport, anxiously waiting for her 80-year-old Iranian father, who had landed Saturday afternoon but was held for almost six hours. By 8 p.m., he was released.

He is very quiet  kind of shaken, but he is fine, she said.

The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee said it has received reports of green card holders and other visa holders being barred from flights to the U.S. and others being barred admission into the country from U.S. airports.

Its causing a destructive impact to the Arab and Muslim community and the Iranian community here in the U.S., said Abed Ayoub, legal and policy director for the organization.

In Djibouti, a 12-year-old girl whose parents are U.S. citizens and who had obtained an immigrant visa Thursday attempted to board a flight with her father, but the airline did not allow her to travel. They were heading back to the Central Valley, where her family lives. The visa had finally come this week after years of effort.

Now, theyre stuck wondering what to do next.

Theyre just in shock  they tell me, But she got the visa, I dont understand, said Katherine Lewis, who represents the family and is an attorney at Van Der Hout, Brigagliano & Nightingale LLP in San Francisco.

Shes 12  theres no reason to be concerned about a 12-year-old, she said.

Some tech companies, meanwhile, are trying to help overseas employees who may be affected by Trumps order.

Its painful to see the personal cost of this executive order on our colleagues, Google CEO Sundar Pichai said in a memo obtained by Bloomberg News.

In a memo to workers obtained by The Chronicle, CEO Tim Cook said some of Apples employees are affected by the order, and staff members are attempting to help them. The company, he said, had reached out to the White House to explain the negative effect on our coworkers and our company.

Ive heard from many of you who are deeply concerned about the executive order issued yesterday restricting immigration from seven Muslim-majority countries, Cook said Saturday in the statement. I share your concerns. It is not a policy we support.

Colleges across the country also sent out directives to students, warning of the potential impact of the ban. Stanford University recommended that students who are citizens of the countries listed not travel outside the U.S.

A gathering on the Palo Alto campus to discuss the fallout is planned for this week.

President Trumps war on equality is already taking a terrible human toll. This ban cannot be allowed to continue, said Omar Jadwat, director of the ACLUs Immigrants Rights Project.

A Sudanese graduate student in the universitys anthropology department had been detained Friday night into Saturday at New Yorks John F. Kennedy International Airport before being released. The student has a green card and has been a U.S. resident for years.

In Walnut Creek on Saturday morning, Aidin said he felt helpless as he attempted to buy his wife a ticket that would get her on a plane as soon as possible. Would he have to travel abroad for the next three months to see his wife in another country? Would he quit his job and go to Iran? The options are complicated by an infant son in Walnut Creek who does not yet have a passport.

Aidin chose to do something else  he wrote a letter to Trump.

I have always been proud of my heritage but even more proud to be a U.S. citizen. I admire American values and believe in the system that we have in here, he wrote. Ever since I migrated to U.S., I have been working non-stop as a software engineer, got my Masters degree from University of Southern California while working full time, and every year have been paying substantial amount of tax.

I was wondering if you could help me.

Hamed Aleaziz is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: haleaziz@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @haleaziz
Paul Nehlen

The loudest boos at last week's Deploraball were shouted for two people: Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton and House Speaker Paul Ryan.

The boos for Ryan hit a crescendo right before one man took the stage to address the crowd. It was Ryan's primary challenger, Paul Nehlen.

"I had a 0.3% chance of winning, and I ran anyhow," Nehlen, who picked up roughly 16% of the vote in August's primary despite a boon in national media coverage in the days leading up to the vote, said at the onset of his address. "I ran because Trans-Pacific Partnership would've eliminated all your jobs."

"And they would've given your jobs to foreigners, and that's wrong," he continued. "That's what Paul Ryan worked on behalf of. So everybody here in this room who worked hard for [President] Donald Trump, you keep working."

Although he was soundly defeated by Ryan in August, the reliably pro-Trump Nehlen has attempted to maintain relevance. He announced a bid for the speakership, which proved unsuccessful as Ryan was reelected to the post. But, he's amassed a sizeable following on social media as has adopted much of the platform of the so-called alt-right. Nehlen has attacked Ryan and Arizona Sen. John McCain using similar language as Breitbart, he's posted articles from the far-right blog Gateway Pundit and notorious alt-right blogger Chuck Johnson's site WeSearchr, which was recently blocked on Twitter, and he's retweeted fringe alt-right trolls such as Baked Alaska.

Reliably pro-Trump, Nehlen received a shout out from the president during the campaign, when Trump tweeted praise of the Wisconsin businessman last August, just days before his primary against Ryan. It was during a time when Trump was claiming he was not ready to endorse the House Speaker in his primary race, although he soon came around and supported the Wisconsin Republican.

Now plotting his next move, Nehlen said the Trump administration had not "really discussed any specific roles" for him in the administration.

Story continues

"But if he called me, you know, that's the president calling," he told Business Insider at the Deploraball. "So, they've got my number, and they could always contact me."

Continuing to take aim at Ryan, just as Trump was set to be inaugurated as president, Nehlen said he and his following would "hold Paul Ryan accountable to hold up existing immigration law and build up that wall."

"Just because Trump won doesn't mean things are going to change where they need to change," Nehlen said. "They're going to grind on his immigration proposals and his programs. They'll try to grind it down so we have amnesty."

Asked how he ended up at Deploraball, the Washington, DC, pre-inauguration celebration for some in the alt-right, a movement that consists of white nationalists, reactionaries, men's rights activists, and staunch protectionists, among others, Nehlen said the crowd was filled with "comrades."

"I've made friends with a lot of people around the country who were also pulling for Donald Trump, so, being on that side of the fight, we're comrades," he said. "We're brothers in arms. Brothers and sisters in arms. I wanted to come here because these are my people. They are for Donald Trump."

But the Deploraball also came at a time where an apparent fracture was happening in the reliably pro-Trump movement between the white nationalists, who first coined the term, and the larger segment of the group that did not share some of the same sentiments. That latter group was beginning to toss around a new title, the "new right."

Nehlen, however, did not want to enter the fray on this division.

"I hesitate to really put a label on [this movement] because it's really everything that the left isn't," he said. "It's 'America First.' And there's different flavors of the alt-right and the 'new right.' I think people are focusing on America First policies: Citizens first, law and order first. ... I don't get into this whole is it alt-right or 'new right' because that doesn't mean a whole lot to me."

And Nehlen did not rule out a return bid at running against the House speaker.

"It'd be a little premature to make that kind of announcement, but I would never say never," he said. "It's a fair question. Never say never."

Correction: A previous version of this article states that Nehlen said he had a 0% chance of defeating Ryan. He actually said he had a 0.3% chance of victory.

NOW WATCH: Watch Former CIA director James Woolsey explain why he wont advise the Trump transition team anymore





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John Knoop was an Ohio farm boy who first saw San Francisco when he dropped out of college and rode west on a motorcycle. That cinematic story launched a cinematic career for Mr. Knoop, a swashbuckling documentary filmmaker who died in his sleep Jan. 12 at his home in El Cerrito. He was 77.

Mr. Knoop succumbed to lasting impairments from a horrific nighttime bicycle crash in Golden Gate Park that left him temporarily paralyzed from the neck down in 1997. Told he would never walk again, he spent a month in the hospital and then miraculously walked out on his own and spent another 20 years creating art.

During a 50-year career, Mr. Knoop co-produced and filmed more than 30 overseas reports for The MacNeil/Lehrer Report on PBS. He also directed, produced or filmed more than 40 independent documentaries in danger zones worldwide. These include Marias Story, a 1990 portrait of a revolutionary leader in El Salvador; Cafe Nica (1987), about the coffee harvest in Nicaragua; and Thanhs War (1990), about a Vietnamese man wounded in the war and brought to the United States.

His instinct was to go to the drama, no matter how dangerous, said filmmaker Gaetano Maida, who once watched Mr. Knoop grab his camera and run toward gunfire, not away from it, while filming a story in Bangkok.

In 1975, Mr. Knoop co-founded the Film Arts Foundation, an important resource and support group for independent filmmakers in the Bay Area. Several filmmakers pooled their resources to buy a flatbed editing machine. Their cooperative was the first of its kind and later became part of the San Francisco Film Society.

John Geoffrey Knoop was born May 23, 1939, on a goat farm overlooking the Ohio River, outside Cincinnati. He was the grandson of Rudolph Wurlitzer, maker of pipe organs and jukeboxes. His father was a photojournalist.

In his memoir, Faultline: A Nomad Filmmakers Journal, published in 2013, Mr. Knoop recounted how he escaped the farm by learning to fly airplanes, having earned his private pilots license at age 16.

After graduating from Walnut Hills High School in 1957, he went off to Columbia University in New York. It didnt stick and he left after his freshman year to ride his BMW R69 to Argentina, with a beret on his head and a friend on the back.

On the return trip he took a small detour through San Francisco, and it made an impression. Five years later he left the goat farm for good and moved to a flat on Waller Street, with his wife and two young kids. Hired as the Western editor for the Farm Quarterly, he pitched the idea of a documentary about farming, even though he had never made a film. When the project was approved, he taught himself how to direct by going to the movies.

His first film, called Farm, was completed in 1969 but may have strayed too far into the psychedelic life Mr. Knoop was enjoying in San Francisco. Once the home office saw the finished product it was agreed that he would leave the Farm Quarterly.

As a freelance documentarian, he lived and worked in a loft on Natoma Street in South of Market for 30 years.

In January 1997, he got funding for a film project about the children of the disappeared, people who were executed by the military dictatorship in Argentina. He jumped on his bicycle and rode out to celebrate with a friend in the Sunset. While cutting through the park in the dark, he glanced off a curb and flipped over the handlebars.

The accident left him temporarily paralyzed from the neck down, and he permanently lost most of his motor skills.

But six weeks after his accident, and with his daughter Tanya to steady him, Mr. Knoop flew to Argentina with his film crew. It took another 12 years, but he finally finished Awakening From Sorrow: Buenos Aires 1997. Completed in 2009, it was his last film.

Mr. Knoop was married and divorced twice, to Judith Mayerson and Sharon Hennessey. He was the father of five children.

Survivors include sister Janet Kurtz of Arlington, Mass.; brothers Christopher of Cincinnati, Rudolph of Mendocino County and Anthony of Occidental; and children Tanya of Oakland, Michelle of Cotati, Geoffrey of El Cerrito, Hennessey of Sausalito and Savannah of Brooklyn.

A memorial event will be announced at www.johnknoop.com.

Sam Whiting is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: swhiting@sfchronicle.com Instagram: @sfchronicle_art
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A Las Vegas man has been charged with taking part in the 2006 murder of the leader of an organization in San Franciscos Chinatown, a killing for which Raymond Shrimp Boy Chow has been sentenced to life in prison.

Wen Bing Lei, nicknamed Skinny Ray, was indicted Thursday by a federal grand jury on a charge of murdering Allen Leung during racketeering activity. Prosecutors said Lei, 50, is in federal custody on other charges.
Detail meant everything to Robin Rob Haeseler  from the natty bow ties he wore even as other journalists went casual, to the jewelers eye he brought to his editing, to the minute strokes he brushed into his reporting to make it pop.

When Lynette Squeaky Fromme threw an apple at the prosecutor during her 1975 trial for trying to assassinate President Gerald Ford, Mr. Haeseler was The Chronicle reporter who identified the missile as a Rome Beauty. When earthquakes, kidnappings and murders slid across his editing desk in the 1980s and early 90s, he polished them until they were sensitive and complete  and when necessary, bore a flair for the dramatic.

Two days before he died Jan. 16 of lung cancer, Mr. Haeseler had his daughter play the movie Animal House so they could both share a laugh before he went. He wanted his final hours not to be grim.

Rob had a graceful, literate style, with a wry undercurrent, said Michael Taylor, a former Chronicle reporter and editor who was a longtime colleague and friend of Mr. Haeselers. As a desk editor, he didnt get rattled. In a big breaking story he knew just where to send people, what to do. It was almost like he knew the story was coming.

Mr. Haeseler died at a hospital near his home of Bellefonte, Pa., at age 75.

He worked at The Chronicle from 1967 to 1995, leaving to edit and write at Linns Stamp News in Ohio, and the precise professionalism he brought to both jobs left deep impressions.

Rob was a great writer, and it showed in everything he put together, said Linns Associate Editor Michael Baadke. He came here with a great knowledge of stamps and postal history, and he had a veteran reporters instinct in bringing out details to make stories interesting to readers.

During his 10 years at Linns, Mr. Haeseler specialized in sleuthing out mysteries such as the claim that a near-twin to the British Guiana 1856 1-cent Magenta stamp had been found, when in fact it was a fake. After leaving Linns he worked for a year as director of administration for the American Philatelic Society before retiring.

At the time of his death, he had 30 file boxes of stamps.

He loved stamp collecting, but what he really liked was the stories behind the stamps, said his daughter, Katherine Haeseler Bruskotter. He was just fascinated with everyone and everything.

I can understand why he was an underpaid reporter for so long, she said with a laugh. My dad was just constantly trying to learn new things all the time.

Mr. Haeseler was born and raised in Connecticut and earned a bachelors degree in English at the University of Vermont. By the time he earned his masters in journalism at UC Berkeley in 1968, hed already been hired at The Chronicle and was earning a reputation as a wordsmith.

One of his first stories for the newspaper was a 1967 exploration of the disappearance of drive-in hamburger joints. He wrote: The carhop, that wiggling creature hailed for her teasing step, swinging hips and ready smile, is fading from the American way of life.

Mr. Haeseler went on to become assistant city editor and regional editor, then returned to his first love, writing, specializing in feature stories and crime topics such as the trail of death left by the Unabomber.

Former Managing Editor Dan Rosenheim recalled how on the night of the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, Mr. Haeseler couldnt make it back home to the East Bay after the papers stories had been filed over a jury-rigged power and computer system. It was 3 a.m. and the Bay Bridge had been damaged.

Rob crashed at my house, and we werent entirely sure the paper would actually come out, Rosenheim said. So Rob got up at 6:30 a.m. and walked to Ocean Avenue to a 7-Eleven  and he came back with a quake paper in each hand, with this triumphant grin on his face.

He was a fine journalist who had a very, very sharp eye as an editor. The people who worked for him loved him, too. He was a lovely man.

In addition to Buskotter, Mr. Haeseler is survived by two other daughters, Bethany Newhall Haeseler-Duboyce of Montreal and Rebecca Kay Mansell of Mentor, Ohio; a stepson, John Michael Davis of St. Louis; his brother, John of Washington, D.C.; three granddaughters; and his former wife, Deborah Kay Petit of Columbus, Ohio.

A memorial will be held March 25 from 2 to 5 p.m. in Bellefonte, Pa., at the American Philatelic Society, 100 Match Factory Place. Guests may send RSVP notices to Mr. Haeselers daughter Katherine at farewellrobmarch25@gmail.com.

The family requests that donations in Mr. Haeselers name be made to St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital, which can be reached at (800) 805-5856.

Kevin Fagan is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: kfagan@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @KevinChron
A new city inspection of the sinking Millennium Tower in downtown San Francisco has determined the building is safe for occupancy, despite evidence that the deluxe skyscrapers uneven settlement has caused some strain on the buildings foundation and electrical systems.

There was no evidence of life-safety concerns observed during the inspection, the report stated. The building is safe to occupy at this time.

Despite the rosy prognosis, however, the inspectors found plenty of evidence of the impact 16 inches of settlement has had on the structure. The report, based on inspections on Dec. 2, 2016, and Jan. 11, found visual evidence of the effect of settlement on some electrical wiring support systems.

The report noted that electrical raceways  large tubes that serve as conduits for wires and cables  are under stress in an area of the basement where the 58-story high-rise part of the structure meets the adjacent 12-story podium. Inspectors also found evidence of water intrusion in the fifth level of the basement affecting installed electrical wiring and electrical components.

The report concluded that electrical systems were working adequately and that the deficiencies were not inherent to the electrical systems installed but represent the need for an engineering solution to the building settlement issues.

The Department of Building Inspection says that permits have been pulled to correct most of the issues. Several violations cited on Dec. 2 have been fixed already, including wall repair and duct pipe strapping. Other work is still ongoing and will be reinspected on Feb. 6, according to the report.

P.J. Johnston, a spokesman for Millennium Partners, called the report good news.

The Department of Building Inspection has concluded that 301 Mission St. is safe, reaffirming previous studies, he said. While DBI identified some relatively minor issues, these have already been addressed or are currently being resolved. Our top priority is to work with the homeowners association to resolve outstanding issues.

The building, which is just north of the new Transbay Transit Center, has settled 16 inches, much more than the 4 to 6 inches project engineers anticipated over the life of the building. It has also tilted 2 inches to the northwest.

The report comes as homeowners in the 419-unit tower have filed multiple lawsuits against the developer, Millennium Partners, as well as the city. The homeowners say both the developer and the city were aware that the building was sinking years ago but did nothing to warn them about the situation.

Millennium Partners has accused its neighbor, the Transbay Joint Powers Authority, developer of the transit center, of causing the sinking by pumping groundwater out during construction, weakening the soil. The TJPA, and the residents, say that the building is sinking because Millennium Partners failed to drive piles 200 feet to bedrock, instead going with 80-foot friction piles.

Resident Jerry Dodson, an attorney who represents some of the homeowners in a lawsuit, said the city report is not an adequate evaluation of the buildings safety. He said the geotechnical study currently being undertaken by engineer Pat Shires on behalf of the homeowners association would be a better indication.

Until that study has been completed no one is in a position to state the building is safe, he said.

The building is continuing to sink and tilt at a rate of 2 inches per year, according to the European Space Agency, which examined the building from orbit, he said. This will quickly overstress the building and take its toll on the plumbing and utility systems if it hasn't already. We need a plan now for complete stabilization that is implemented on firm deadlines.

J.K. Dineen is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jdineen@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @SFjkdineen
When Sinbad the cat showed up at the Anti-Cruelty Society, an animal shelter in Chicago, he weighed more than 11 pounds. Five pounds of that was fur.

The 8-year-old Persian's hair was gray, matted and laced with excrement and maggots. It was a shocking and stinking sight, the result of years of lack of grooming and neglect. Shelter workers spent several hours shaving off part of Sinbad's fur, then sedated him for a second, closer-to-the-skin shaving session.

"It really did look like he was dragging a carpet behind him," said Colette Bradley, a spokeswoman for the society. "He was tired, you could tell."

But in the six weeks since Sinbad's arrival at the shelter, he's made a remarkable comeback. His fur has started to grow back - and it's white and fluffy. He's been adopted by a shelter employee, Elliott Serrano. And in a most unlikely turn of events - or, perhaps, the most likely of all - he's become a social media darling.

Sinbad, with the help of Serrano, has grown an Instagram following of more than 7,200 people in the past two weeks - hardly Lil' Bub levels, but not bad for a newbie to the very wide world of Internet cats. He's got nearly that number of followers on Facebook. The backstory helps, as does his Grumpy Catlike face.

"I just got a message from Uzbekistan, a direct message on Facebook," Serrano said in an interview. "They said they were very happy I had Sinbad. That they once had a Persian, too, but it had a liver infection, and they knew the person who had Sinbad before wasn't a bad person. And then they just said: 'Thank you.' "

Sinbad's rebound began in early December when a utility worker visiting the cat's former home noticed him in the basement. She called the Anti-Cruelty Society, which adopts out more than 5,000 dogs and cats and conducts 2,000 cruelty investigations a year, Bradley said. It sent over investigators, and the owner, who Bradley said was "just really unaware of the needs of a Persian cat, and in failing mental health," agreed to give him up.

Beneath the dingy fur, Sinbad was underweight, at less than seven pounds. But even so, Bradley said, "as soon as that hair was off, he was going up to people in the room and rubbing up against them."

Serrano, who manages the shelter's humane education programs and describes himself as "a middle-aged man," wasn't planning to travel for the holidays, so he took Sinbad home when the shelter closed for a few days. He soon decided to make the relationship permanent.

Not that it was smooth sailing from the start. Yes, Sinbad was loving. But even after the shave, he remained fragrant for a couple weeks, Serrano said.

"The first week he was with me, he would lie on me, and he was still kind of smelly," Serrano said. I was like, "Oh buddy, you're a nice guy, but we've gotta take care of the smell."

These days, Sinbad smells fine, weighs in at just over eight pounds and is feisty, said Serrano, who on Tuesday posted a photo of the cat after he'd jumped onto his new owner's shoulders. And Serrano said he's taken to the role of being "like his handler. I'm his agent."

That's in part because Sinbad is a poster cat for what Serrano does all day: teach children about responsible pet ownership and having positive relations with animals - and people like Sinbad's former owner, who Serrano said was an example of how elderly people are also sometimes neglected.

Sinbad "is the perfect story to tell and share," Serrano said. "He's a perfect example of what it's like when people step up and show they care and intervene for those in need."
A Cincinnati area mosque announced it would join the burgeoning church sanctuary movement in the U.S., possibly becoming the first Islamic house of worship to do so.

The announcement came on the eve of the inauguration of President Donald J. Trump, who took a hard-line stance on immigration and proposed a national Muslim registry during his campaign.

"It took us no time to decide that this was the ethical and moral thing to do," said Imam Ismaeel Chartier, leader of the Clifton Mosque, which attracts upwards of 800 people to Friday prayers at its location near the Cincinnati Zoo. "We want to help reclaim humanity for everyone."

More than 800 U.S. congregations have joined the sanctuary movement  a promise by churches, synagogues and now, mosques, to shield undocumented immigrants from deportation and other government actions, even to the point of violating the law. The Rev. Noel Anderson of the Church World Service, which organizes the sanctuary movement, said the Clifton mosque is likely the first mosque to actually open its doors to undocumented immigrants, but that other mosques have supported the movement in other ways.

Dallas-based Imam Omar Suleiman, an adjunct professor at Southern Methodist University, said Islamic history and scripture supports the participation of Muslims in the sanctuary movement.

"It starts with the verse in the Quran where God says we honor the children of Adam and every person is a child of Adam," he said. "And if the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, and his followers had not been taken in by the people of Medina when they had to flee Mecca, he probably would have been killed in Mecca," essentially ending the religion before it spread.

Suleiman is helping to organize a national call to Muslim leaders and mosques to join the sanctuary movement. He is also helping to create a webinar that will provide them with resources to establish themselves as a sanctuary.

In Cincinnati, the Clifton Mosque will join Christ Church Cathedral, an Episcopal community in downtown Cincinnati, in shielding and supporting any immigrants who seek help.
With students continuing to pour into the Alvin Independent School District at a rate of approximately 1,000 per school year, the district is working to construct six new schools in addition to a new district stadium/transportation complex.

Daniel Combs, a district assistant superintendent, said Alvin ISD has been growing steadily, particularly in recent years. This current school year he said approximately 1,500 children joined the district.

"We're one of the fastest-growing districts in the state," he said. "Today we have 23,699 students and for the last five years we've been adding over 1,000 students every year."

Combs said the growth can be attributed to several factors, including new residential construction along the Texas 288 corridor and the geographic size of Alvin ISD.

"We're a 252-square mile district and our area covers Alvin, Manvel and all of Pearland west of 288," he said.

He said the district opened the new Meridiana Elementary in the burgeoning Meridiana subdivision now under construction. It is to include 5,470 homes when built out.

Another planned community, Pamona, also is bringing new homes and students to Alvin ISD. Eventually that neighborhood will accommodate 1,802 homes.

"We also have lots of other developments that continue to grow like Sterling Lakes and Sedona Lakes," Combs said.

To accommodate the rapid student population expansion, district voters in late 2015 approved a $245 million bond to fund the construction of the new facilities, according to Rachel Moore, the district's graphics and communication specialist.

The new schools will include Shirley Dill Brothers Elementary, which is under construction now. The $17.5-million project, which is located at 2910 Half Moon Bay Drive in Pearland, is expected to be completed this summer.

Also under construction is the not-yet-named Elementary No. 18, located at 4480 Kirby Drive in Manvel. The school, which will cost $16.3 million, will be completed this summer.

The district's seventh junior high, which is not yet named, is under construction at the corner of Kingsley and Broadway. It has a price tag of $29.1 million.

The JB Hensler Career and Technical Center, 7380 Lewis Lane in Manvel, also is on track to open this summer.

Upcoming projects include replacing Alvin Elementary, which has been renamed Betty K. Nelson Elementary, and the building of a 20th elementary school. Construction on both schools will begin this fall.

The district stadium, which will include an event space and transportation depot on 94 acres, is set to open in summer of 2018.

Combs said the district stadium complex will be a multi-use facility accommodating sporting events, alumni and community functions and professional learning events in addition to serving as a second transportation center for the district's buses.

"Our buses travel a significant distance every day to run their routes so (having a second bus barn) will cut down on a lot of the wear and tear," he said.

Approving funding for new facilities is an important way for the community to actively contribute to and participate in their local school district's growth, but it's not the only way. In fact, hundreds of community stakeholders submitted suggestions for new school names.

"Establishing the name for an Alvin ISD school or district facility is the first significant step in developing a unique culture and identify that will last for many years," Combs said. "Involving students, parents and community members in the processes allows for a broad range of perspectives and viewpoints to be considered.

He said the latest round of name nominations netted 360 names for three schools.

"It's our best participation yet," he said.

Though Combs declined to reveal any of the suggested names, he said he expects the recommendations, once they are reviewed and chosen by a special committee, will be brought before the school board for a vote during the March meeting.
A Woodlands man accused of sexually assaulting multiple young girls was indicted Tuesday.

Rodney Smith, 48, is facing two second-degree felony indecency with a child charges as well as one first-degree felony aggravated sexual assault of a child charge for the alleged incidents. Smith was arrested at his home Oct. 11 a few thousand feet from McCullough Junior High after investigators say he touched a then-8-year-old friend of his daughter's back in January 2012.

The young girl told investigators she was over at his house in the 25000 block of Broken Bough for a sleepover when Smith groped her late that night. The girl said she knew it was Smith despite the low-light conditions because he was wearing a white Houston Texans jersey. She then told Smith's daughter what had happened and called her mom to come get her from the sleepover.

Detectives did not know about the case until July 2016 when the young girl told her father.

Detectives with the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office met with Smith in September to ask him about the allegations. Smith told detectives he was walking through the house that night when he noticed his front door was open, so he went to go check on the sleeping girls.

As he walked in the room, he tripped and dropped his cigarettes, he said, before he began patting down the girls in the bed to make sure they were still there, according to court records. He said he touched the young girl's "stomach area" when he was patting them on the bed, but said if he touched the girl inappropriately, he did not mean to.

Montgomery County Precinct 3 Constable's detectives said in a statement there have been other victims who have come forward from incidents that were alleged to have occurred as far back as 2000, and they believe there could be more. More charges were added Nov. 2, court records show.

If convicted, Smith faces up to life in prison.

Montgomery County grand jury indictments for Jan. 24:

Philip Lee II, promotion of child pornography (four counts)

William Loving Jr., retaliation

Jerrell Pannell, tampering with physical evidence

Kaitlyn Thompson, possession of controlled substance

Toney Edwards Jr., possession of controlled substance

Justin Woods, evading arrest detention with vehicle

Jason Warner, possession with intent to deliver/manufacture controlled substance

Brandon Thornton, tampering with physical evidence

Hunter Boyd, possession with intent to deliver/manufacture controlled substance

Allen Wilhite, possession of controlled substance

Michael Semien Jr., assault causing bodily injury family enhanced twice within 12 months

Celsa Rundle, possession of controlled substance

Marcus Price, possession of controlled substance

Oscar Robles-Murillo, DWI  with a child

Scotland Carona, unauthorized use of motor vehicle

Reginald Powers, theft

Elijah Russell, theft

Edmond Harris, theft

Emmanuel Mallard, theft

Shannon Schattel, possession of marijuana, evading arrest detention with vehicle and unlawful possession of firearm by felon
* Putin, Trump hold first call since U.S. inauguration

* Agree to work to rebuild tattered U.S.-Russia ties

* Say favour cooperating in Syria against Islamic State

* Say will work on setting up a meeting (Recasts, adds details, more quotes, context)

By Andrew Osborn and Alexander Winning

MOSCOW, Jan 28 (Reuters) - Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump agreed to try to rebuild U.S. Russia ties and to cooperate in Syria, the Kremlin said on Saturday, after the two men spoke for the first time since Trump's inauguration.

U.S.-Russia relations hit a post-Cold War low under the Barack Obama administration and Trump has made clear he wants a rapprochement with Moscow if he can get along with Putin, who says he is also keen to mend ties.

"Both sides demonstrated a mood for active, joint work on stabilising and developing Russian-American cooperation," the Kremlin said in a statement, adding that Putin and Trump had agreed to work on setting up their first meeting.

"The chat took place in a positive and business-like tone."

Trump's stance on Russia has been under intense scrutiny from critics who say he was elected with help from Russian intelligence agencies, a charge he denies. His detractors have also accused him of being too eager to make an ally of Putin.

For Putin, who faces possible re-election next year, an easing of U.S. sanctions imposed on Moscow over its role in the Ukraine crisis would be a major coup.

But the Kremlin made no mention of the subject being discussed, referring only to the two underlining the importance of restoring mutually-beneficial trade and economic ties.

Trump said on Friday he was only in the early stages of considering whether to lift the sanctions, as British Prime Minister Theresa May, other foreign officials and U.S. lawmakers cautioned that such a move would be premature.

The most tangible outcome of the phone call, as the Kremlin described it, appeared to be what it said was an understanding that jointly fighting international terrorism was a priority and that the two nations should cooperate in Syria.

Story continues

UKRAINE, IRAN, KOREA

"The presidents spoke in favour of setting up genuine coordination between Russian and American actions with the aim of destroying Islamic State and other terrorist groups in Syria," the Kremlin said.

That could signal a major policy change as, for now, cooperation is largely limited to coordinating to ensure that the two countries' air forces operate safely and that the risk of accidental confrontation or collision is minimised.

Moscow is one of Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad's allies, while Washington, under Obama, called for him to step down and backed rebel groups fighting to topple him.

The Kremlin said Trump and Putin had agreed to establish "partner-like cooperation" when it came to other global issues such as Ukraine, Iran's nuclear programme, tensions on the Korean peninsula and the Israeli-Arab conflict.

They had also agreed to stay in regular contact and had both said they wanted each other's nation to flourish, the Kremlin said.

"He (Putin) reminded (Trump) that our country has supported America for more than two centuries, was its ally in two world wars and now views the United States as its most important partner in the fight against international terrorism," the Kremlin said.

Since Russia annexed Ukraine's Crimea in 2014, Kremlin-backed media have spent much of their time criticising the United States and accusing it of trying to undermine Moscow. Since Trump's election, it has backed away from that line .

(Reporting by Alexander Winning; Editing by Andrew Osborn)
Community members in Montgomery are hoping to reassure law enforcement they are appreciated at a rally Sunday.

The 2017 Americans Stand United for the Men and Women in Blue rally will run from 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday in downtown Montgomery near the Montgomery Community Center. All are invited to the free event that includes a 3 p.m. ceremony honoring and praying for police in Montgomery County.

Americans Stand United President Mary Jobe said she created the nonprofit organization in the wake of the July 2016 shooting deaths of five police officers in Dallas.

"I'm police wife, and my husband has been an officer for nine years," Jobe said. "Learning what he sees every day and hearing about it, it really inspired me to get the community together."

The organization hosted a similar rally in Magnolia weeks after the Dallas shooting.

"The community needs to get together not only in times of tragedy but every year in every town," Jobe said. "We should be getting together to honor these men and women for them to see the community does support them and appreciate them, and also for them to see the normalcy, to see the kids being kids in the park and playing and people mingling with them. It makes them feel a positivity with the community."

Proceeds from the event will help provide local peace officers with equipment their agencies do not provide them, Jobe said. The 3 p.m. ceremony will include a prayer, pledge, bagpipes and songs by Jason Allen.

"I want to keep Montgomery County with that positive (mind) for law enforcement," Jobe said. "I want to let them know they're appreciated."

The organization will be selling t-shirts, decals, wristbands, drinks and a barbecued lunch at the rally. There will also be a silent auction. For more information, or to donate to the nonprofit, residents can visit www.AmericansStandUnited.net.
The Salvation Army feared it would have been forced to make 2017 budget and program cuts as it fell $82,000 short of its $400,000 goal to serve thousands of children and senior citizens presents three weeks before Christmas.

But thanks to big hearts and small contributions, Salvation Army Major Don Wildish said the goal was not only met - but exceeded.

During the second week of December, Wildish reached out to the community through The Conroe Courier seeking assistance for its annual Angel Tree program which had hundreds of more applicants than expected. If the funds were not raised by New Year's Eve, Wildish said he would have to make difficult decisions in the new year, which would have affected the shelter and senior citizen programs.

Instead $50, $100 and $500 contributions came pouring in from the community, he said.

"Many of the donations received were $100 or less," said Wildish who shared the largest donation came in at $10,000. "There were a lot of people in the county that tried to help as much as they could and there were a lot of people who stepped up and really helped us. And my goodness, I was overwhelmed at the response."

But on Dec. 29 the Salvation Army still lacked $20,000.

"I was really hoping to have a response and within a two day period we had right at $25,000 worth of response in two days," said Wildish, who estimated the gifts within those two days ranged between $500 to $2,000. "That really threw us over the top of $405,000."

Among the donations included a $10 check and a letter from a senior citizen, he said.

"She said, 'I'm on a set income. I can't help very much, but I want to help where I can,'" said Wildish who wrote thank you letters to her and the donors. "That $10 gift meant as much as the other gifts as well because it came from the heart. I really appreciate the community for getting behind our cause and taking the Salvation Army's goal as being their goal."

"The old saying is every little bit helps," he added. "It really did."

All of the donations from the community, which also included 25,000 Angel Tree program toys and clothing items, helped provide gifts for 5,100 children and 500 seniors in need--about 1,000 people than 2015. The Christmas gifts were delivered with the help of more than 725 volunteers, according to Wildish.

Now that Christmas has come to a close, Wildish hopes the community will continue to support its ongoing efforts.

"I am now in the year 2017 and one of our goals right now is touching the lives of people," Wildish said. "The Salvation Army is going to do that in a lot of different ways and I simply need people in the county to be able to help do that very thing (including through financial assistance)."

The Conroe Salvation Army shelters and feeds, including three meals a day, an increasing homeless population. The services are daily, year-round. Up to 110 people stayed there on a single night this week, Wildish said in December.

Last year, 918 people were reported as homeless in Montgomery County, according to an interview with Salvation Army Shelter Director David Jenatta in November. Even though 918 were reported, he estimates more than 1,300 people are homeless in the area for various reasons, including a need for affordable housing and people who are living paycheck to paycheck and unable to keep up with the cost of living. Some have college degrees and jobs, others have suffered from addiction or abuse.

For more information about the Angel Tree Program and the Salvation Army, residents can call 936-760-2440 or visit http://salvationarmyhouston.org/conroe. Donations can be sent to P.O. Box 897, Conroe, Texas, 77305.
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Plainview/Hale County Economic Development Corporation honored Norman Wright of Plainview with the Jack Morris Economic Development and Leadership Award at its quarterly meeting Thursday.

In honoring Wright, Brian Pohlmeier, vice chairman of Centennial Bank, detailed Wrights life, from his birth in Greenville, Ill., to his career in banking and insurance in Plainview.

Wright served in the U.S. Army, receiving his officers commission in 1949 and serving in the Korean War as an artillery officer. After moving to Albuquerque, where he worked in banking, Wright moved with his wife Louise to Plainview with three of their four children and attended Wayland Baptist College, as it was named at the time.

Wright served with four Plainview banks: Hale County State Bank, City National Bank, First National Bank and State National Bank.

As if a 42-year banking career was not enough to lose your hair over, Norman started his second career in insurance and spent an additional 21 years in the insurance industry, Pohlmeier said.

Sounds like I couldnt keep a job, Wright quipped in his response.

Norman's contributions to Plainview and the Panhandle Region include:

PHCIF /Hale County Economic Development Corporation, elected to the board in 1971 and served as board chairman in 1989

First Baptist Church of Plainview, member, deacon and Sunday school teacher

 Board of Trustees, Wayland Baptist University, nine years

Plainview Lions Club, past president and member for more than 50 years

Plainview Chamber of Commerce, past president, 1978 and 1981

Canadian River Municipal Water Authority, City of Plainview board representative for 30 years, seven years as president

Boards of directors for Salvation Army, American Heart Association, American Cancer Association, Plainview/Hale County Livestock

Masonic Lodge member, more than 30 years

Plainview's Man of the Year, 1978

Plainview Area United Way board and past campaign chairman and president, 1979 and 1980

Member of the 2008 Circle of Honor on the monument in Running Water Draw Regional Park

Pohlmeier called CRMWA one of the most critical organizations in the entire Texas Panhandle through its ensuring a stable and dependable water supply for 11 member cities including Plainview.

You cant talk about the school district without talking about the Wright family, said Dr. Rocky Kirk, PISD superintendent, said in his community report to the board.

Through all of his endeavors, Norman has always been supported by Louise, his wife of 67 years, who was also named as Plainviews Woman of the year in 1991, Pohlmeier said. Norman and Louise are a true partnership and you rarely saw one without the other in the community.

Norman's children and, most important, his 10 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, have always been his greatest treasure as well as his most ardent supporters. This support was shown by his family through their establishment of the Norman and Louise Wright Endowed Scholarship fund at Wayland Baptist University to help develop new leaders for the future. Besides community involvement, Pohlmeier said, Wright has always had a passion as a pilot as well as a trout fisherman.

In his response, Wright said he moved to Plainview with Louise and three of their four children: Walter, David and Susan.

John came later, he said. We were five  now there are 35 of us. Our tribe has increased greatly. The Lords leadership brought us here.

What I like best about West Texas is the can-do attitude. They know how to get things done, and they know that no one does anything by themselves.

Family members present to celebrate the award were Walter and Sharon Wright, Plainview; Dr. David and Dr. Ruth Wright, Plainview; Susan and Ted Jameson, Albuquerque; and John and Kristy Wright, Fort Worth, along with several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Wrights grandson Jonathan Wright offered the invocation.

Plainview has been good to me and my family, and were grateful beyond expression, Wright said.
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Panorama Village residents swayed the City Council to vote against a variance that would have allowed All Star Catering Company to open a kitchen on a residential property.

The variance would have changed the zoning to commercial for the property on FM 830 next to Parkside Drive. But during a public hearing at City Hall Wednesday night before the council's vote, the quiet community's residents voiced concerns.

Some of the issues raised regarded the proximity of the kitchen to their homes, which some said could cause problems related to property values, traffic, noise and odor.

"The parking lot will be directly behind my house (on Torrey Pines Drive)," said Panorama Village resident Betty Turner, who inquired about the selling price of the property, which was not provided. "I can't even imagine the cars pulling in there and the lights shining in. I am also very concerned about the other (issues discussed, including the valuation of her property)."

The Willis-based All Star Catering Company was started by Don and Coaina Spence in 2005. Don Spence addressed residents' concerns during the public hearing. He said the kitchen, which focuses on French-style based cooking, would have about 12-15 employees who begin arriving at 5:30 a.m. and complete cooking by 4:30 p.m. The business caters about 250 weddings a year with the majority of the cooking being chicken breasts.

Mayor Lynn Scott said one reason the variance was considered is because the small business needs more space and would have realized an increase in ad valorem and sales tax revenue.

"We estimated approximately $20,000 a year-plus," Scott said.

More than 30 people attended the public hearing. While a few people left before the vote, some remained to hear the council's decision. During the discussion, Councilman Clint Fowler said he could not vote yes on the variance because of the public's comments.

"You try to put yourself in some of these folks' position and also consider the good of the city," Fowler said. "I go back to when we put an ambulance on League Line and I wouldn't want to live next door to an ambulance, but I thought the good of the city having an ambulance so close to some of you folks was more important. I am open-minded, if you wanted to put this off to put some kind of buffer or landscaping; but if you were to ask me to vote today, I would say no."

Spence offered to raise a fence and make it attractive, according to the mayor.

"He wants to be a good neighbor," Scott said.

By the end of the discussion in the regular meeting following the public hearing, the council voted no.

"We're happy ...," said Rhonda Tosold, who waited through the public hearing and meeting for the council's decision. "It would have been a mess. ... I can tell you that. We heard it was already a done deal."

Scott did not expect the outcome but was pleased by the public's participation.

"I thought it was a tremendous example of democracy in action," Scott said. "They had an opportunity to voice their discomfort of the change; and through passionate (feelings)  they convinced the council to agree with them."

"I have to say I was a little surprised. I didn't think that would happen. I'm not saying I'm not pleased. I think it is a good possibility (the vote would have been different). It certainly would not have been unanimous."

All Star Catering provided a statement Friday regarding the vote.

"The Panorama Village's city council decision was obviously a disappointment," Coaina Spence said in a statement to The Courier Friday. "We love our city and have always been community-minded. In fact, when the Panorama Village club was in trouble and the clubhouse closed (in July 2016), All Star Catering offered to take over the events on the books. We gladly stepped up and did so, losing money on each event, in order to fulfill the city's commitment to their customers. Again, we love our community."

The company also has other potential locations in the works.

"We know that God's plan for All Star Catering's future is all lined out," the statement said. "We are excited to see his plan."
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Just one day before the second anniversary of a Montgomery County Sheriff's deputy's death in a drunk-driving accident, her parents filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the Huntsville bar they believe over-served the man convicted in the fatal crash.

Catherine Breeding and James Selmser III, 29, had spent the night of Jan. 28, 2015, at Shenanigans in Huntsville with their friends before heading back to Selmser's apartment in Conroe. That's when Selmser, who was a Montgomery County Precinct 1 deputy constable, and Breeding, a Montgomery County Sheriff's deputy, hopped on his Harley Davidson motorcycle and took off.

Selmser crashed his motorcycle near the intersection of South Loop 336 and Interstate 45 with Breeding on the back. She was ejected and died on scene, although Selmser survived and was charged with intoxication manslaughter for her death.

He had a blood-alcohol content of 0.168, more than twice the legal limit, court records show. He was convicted and sentenced to two years and six months in prison back in March 2016.

In the lawsuit filed Friday, Steven and Barbara Breeding claim Shenanigans was "negligent" in serving Selmser to the point of intoxication and then continuing to serve him. The lawsuit is also a wrongful death lawsuit, meaning the Breedings believe Shenanigans is somewhat responsible for their daughter's death. Selmser is also listed as a defendant in the suit.

According to Texas' Alcoholic Beverage Code, bars are open to lawsuit if they serve someone alcohol who is "obviously intoxicated to the extent that he presented a clear danger to himself and others," and the drinker goes on to cause damage, personal injury or death while intoxicated.

"If they over-serve, that's what I want to find out," Steve Breeding said Friday. "If I didn't feel they held some sort of responsibility or contributed to her death, I wouldn't (sue them)."

The Breedings initially tried to sue Shenanigans with the same case back in March 2015, but their former attorneys dropped the suit months later when they found out Shenanigans might not have insurance to pay any possible damages resulting from the suit.

The most recent lawsuit is seeking more than $5 million in damages.

"I don't care if the bar has insurance," the Breedings' new attorney Chance McMillan said. "If what I think happened happened, then them not having insurance is a big problem."

Representatives with Shenanigans in Huntsville could not be reached by press time.

Steve Breeding found McMillan after reading a November 2016 article in The Courier about a $3 million settlement with Papa's Ice House in South Montgomery County under similar circumstance.

In that case, Stephen Kyle Isbell, 47, of The Woodlands, Anis Atkins, 25, of Houston, and Dominique Hobbs, 27, of Grand Prairie, died when Ed Blackwell, 47, crashed into a car while driving north in the southbound lanes of Interstate 45 in July 2012 following a night of heavy drinking at Papa's Ice House in the 300 block of Pruitt Road in Spring, court records show.

Court documents state Blackwell and Stephen Isbell were at Papa's Ice House for close to six hours late on June 30, 2012, and into the early morning hours of July 1, 2012. The lawsuit alleged employees served the two "large quantities" of alcohol when they were "obviously" drunk already.

Department of Public Safety troopers initially told The Courier that Blackwell got onto the Interstate 45 southbound lanes near Woodlands Parkway before making a sharp U-turn on the highway and driving north in the southbound lanes. That's when he crashed into a car occupied by Hobbs and Atkins, killing them and Isbell on impact.

Isbell's wife Tara Isbell sued Papa's Ice House as well as Spring Social Club Inc., which owns and operates the Texas Alcoholic Beverage License for the restaurant, in February 2012 alleging employees over-served Blackwell the night of the crash. Family members of Hobbs joined the lawsuit a month later.

In the Breeding case, Steve Breeding is still affected by his daughter's death. Sunday marks the two-year anniversary since her death, which is also the last day the Breedings could have filed suit against Shenanigans.

"It's still painful," Steve Breeding said. "I realize I hate the month of January. Every time I see a deputy's car, I still think it could be her and what might have been."
U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) questions Wells Fargo CEO John Stumpf (not pictured) during his testimony before a Senate Banking Committee hearing on the firm's sales practices on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., September 20, 2016. REUTERS/Gary Cameron

By Sarah N. Lynch

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren on Friday accused the U.S. Labor Department of dismantling a website designed to help Wells Fargo (WFC.N) workers file whistleblower retaliation and other complaints against the bank, and asked the department to reinstate it.

In her letter to Acting Labor Secretary Edward Hugler, Warren said she noticed on Tuesday that the site (www.dol.gov/wellsfargo) was gone and contained the words "Page Not Found."

Labor Department spokesman Steve Barr told Reuters the site was removed on January 9, but did not comment further on the reasons why it was taken down.

Former Labor Department Secretary Thomas Perez created the special website last September, shortly after Wells Fargo was ordered to pay $190 million in fines and customer restitution after its high-pressure sales environment led to the opening of as many as two million accounts that customers may not have authorized.

Some of the bank's employees filed whistleblower complaints with the Labor Department's Occupational Safety and Health Administration, saying they had been fired for reporting the "gaming" of sales quotas by Wells Fargo, while others complained that they were forced to work late.

"Taking down this website enables Wells Fargo to escape full responsibility for its fraudulent actions and the department to shirk its outstanding obligations to American workers," wrote Warren, who is a member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, which oversees the Labor Department.

When he launched the site, Perez pledged to Warren he would conduct a top-to-bottom review of all the Wells Fargo complaints the department had received to see how they were handled.

The website also offered assistance on issues including proper pay for employees and workplace discrimination.

Reuters has reported on issues with some of the whistleblower cases, including one involving a former Wells Fargo employee who waited nearly five years to be interviewed after telling OSHA she was fired for reporting the gaming.

Story continues

On Friday, Warren also asked for an update on the Labor Department's review.

The findings have not been made public, but a person familiar with the review said that OSHA's San Francisco office, which handled the bulk of the Wells Fargo complaints, faced a particularly high caseload-to-staff ratio.

The review also found that OSHA does not have an effective case management system to track what is going on in the field, the person added.

Labor spokesman Barr declined to comment on that part of the letter, saying he cannot discuss ongoing investigations.

Warren's concerns could resurface on Feb. 7, when fast-food executive Andrew Puzder is expected to appear for his confirmation hearing to become the next labor secretary.

Puzder is already facing a backlash by some of his own workers at CKE Restaurants, who allege they are victims of wage theft.

(Reporting by Sarah N. Lynch; editing by Leslie Adler, G Crosse and Chizu Nomiyama)
The public is invited to say farewell to community leader and longtime automotive dealership owner John W. Wiesner.

A public visitation will be from 5-8 p.m. Monday at Metcalf Funeral Home in Conroe. Funeral service will be at First United Methodist Church starting at 10 a.m. on Tuesday.

Wiesner died at the age of 88 Thursday afternoon in Conroe surrounded by family due to health-related reasons. He is recognized by many throughout the community as not only a successful businessman, but a pillar and philanthropist as well.

"This is a great loss for our family and to our community," said Falon Wiesner-Jones, Wiesner's granddaughter and the director of Public Relations for Wiesner Auto Group, who spoke on behalf of the Wiesner family Thursday night. "He will be missed dearly. Thank you for your condolences."

Wiesner was the chairman of the board and chief executive officer of the Wiesner auto dealerships, including the flagship Conroe location at Interstate 45 and Wilson Road and the Huntsville location, with around 275 employees. April 1, will mark the 45th anniversary in Conroe.

At one point the dealership had over 500 employees with locations in Conroe, Huntsville, Tomball and Rosenberg. His son Don Wiesner, 63, has been working at the dealership full-time since 1974. Don Wiesner's daughter Lauren marks the four generations of service to the family business. She is the dealership's finance director and has worked there since 2012.

Wiesner served as the chairman of the Conroe/Lake Conroe Area Chamber of Commerce in 1989. His involvement in the Chamber and the community has "played a key role in Wiesner's activities since moving to Montgomery County," according to the Chamber. He was added to the Chamber's wall of honor in 2003 for his distinguished services to the community. He has served as a leader and member for more than 15 civic organizations, eight businesses, and has been recognized with more than 10 awards and honors.

"He was a strong supporter of the creation of North Harris Montgomery Community College (now Lone Star College System), having chaired the committee which created North Harris Montgomery Community College District in 1991," the website stated. "He continue(d) to serve on the Foundation Board. He support(ed) the YMCA, Montgomery and Walker County Fairs, along with other youth activities in the area. He believe(d) by investing in the youths of today we are helping to build a strong tomorrow."

Wiesner is a graduate of Southern Methodist University where he was a member of the Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity, according to information from the Chamber. He is married to the former Elizabeth Sorsby, of Hempstead, and they have three sons, Don Edd, Howell and John III (deceased). They are the grandparents of seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. They are members of First United Methodist Church.

To leave a condolence message visit the Metcalf Funeral Home in Conroe's website at http://www.dignitymemorial.com/metcalf-funeral-directors/en-us/index.page. More information about John W. Wiesner can be found by visiting www.yourconroenews.com, www.wiesnerauto.com, or www.conroe.org/john-wiesner.
(Updates after Warren revises letter to say website was available "earlier in January" instead of "January 20")

By Sarah N. Lynch

WASHINGTON, Jan 27 (Reuters) - Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren on Friday accused the U.S. Labor Department of dismantling a website designed to help Wells Fargo workers file whistleblower retaliation and other complaints against the bank, and asked the department to reinstate it.

In her letter to Acting Labor Secretary Edward Hugler, Warren said she noticed on Tuesday that the site (www.dol.gov/wellsfargo) was gone and contained the words "Page Not Found."

Labor Department spokesman Steve Barr told Reuters the site was removed on January 9, but did not comment further on the reasons why it was taken down.

Former Labor Department Secretary Thomas Perez created the special website last September, shortly after Wells Fargo was ordered to pay $190 million in fines and customer restitution after its high-pressure sales environment led to the opening of as many as two million accounts that customers may not have authorized.

Some of the bank's employees filed whistleblower complaints with the Labor Department's Occupational Safety and Health Administration, saying they had been fired for reporting the "gaming" of sales quotas by Wells Fargo, while others complained that they were forced to work late.

"Taking down this website enables Wells Fargo to escape full responsibility for its fraudulent actions and the department to shirk its outstanding obligations to American workers," wrote Warren, who is a member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, which oversees the Labor Department.

When he launched the site, Perez pledged to Warren he would conduct a top-to-bottom review of all the Wells Fargo complaints the department had received to see how they were handled.

The website also offered assistance on issues including proper pay for employees and workplace discrimination.

Reuters has reported on issues with some of the whistleblower cases, including one involving a former Wells Fargo employee who waited nearly five years to be interviewed after telling OSHA she was fired for reporting the gaming.

Story continues

On Friday, Warren also asked for an update on the Labor Department's review.

The findings have not been made public, but a person familiar with the review said that OSHA's San Francisco office, which handled the bulk of the Wells Fargo complaints, faced a particularly high caseload-to-staff ratio.

The review also found that OSHA does not have an effective case management system to track what is going on in the field, the person added.

Labor spokesman Barr declined to comment on that part of the letter, saying he cannot discuss ongoing investigations.

Warren's concerns could resurface on Feb. 7, when fast-food executive Andrew Puzder is expected to appear for his confirmation hearing to become the next labor secretary.

Puzder is already facing a backlash by some of his own workers at CKE Restaurants, who allege they are victims of wage theft.

(Reporting by Sarah N. Lynch; editing by Leslie Adler, G Crosse and Chizu Nomiyama)
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Empty safes reeking of marijuana and its residue were discovered where a father and son were shot during a robbery last week, a San Antonio Police Department report reveals.

The men robbed were preparing to eat just before 9 p.m. in the 7100 block of Oaklawn Drive when four people wearing black hoodies barged in through their unlocked door, the police report states.

One of the suspects, who were all armed with handguns, shot the 24-year-old man in the head as they fought just outside the apartment, police said.

RELATED: Helicopter searching for gunman who shot neighbor at West Side apartment complex

He was taken to University Hospital in critical condition. An update on his condition was not available Friday.

The victims told police that one of the suspects shouted Caught you slipping! as he entered the complex, police said.

Investigators noted the suspects demanded only their cash, but didnt believe the victims had given all they had.

RELATED: Assailants at large after pregnant woman tied up, robbed in NW Side home

As the injured mans 54-year-old father was being interviewed by detectives, they noted he realized he had been shot below his waist and dropped his pants to reveal the injury.

The father was also taken to UH, the report states.

While examining the home, investigators found marijuana paraphernalia where the son and a third person were sitting at the dining table.

Multiple safes in the home were found empty, but still had the scent of marijuana with its residue present, investigators noted.

A search, which the victims consented to, also revealed that a bedroom was ransacked. Investigators said it appeared someone was looking for something very quickly.

The suspects may have been spotted on surveillance cameras fleeing past a nearby convenience store, investigators said.

Police had not identified any suspects as of Friday night.

jbeltran@express-news.net

Twitter: @JBfromSA
SAN ANTONIO  A man shot Friday after an argument over a girl at an apartment complex on the West Side said "everything was cool," according to police.

Reports of a shooting came in around 4:15 p.m. in the 100 block of San Mateo Walk.
Graduating from high school with an associates degree without having to pay tuition was incentive enough for Angelina Vasquez to pursue dual enrollment in community college classes while still in high school.

What she did not stop to consider until her December graduation from Texas A&M University in College Station was that she might encounter barriers to employment due to her accelerated college career. Vasquez is only 19 years old.

A 2014 graduate of Weslaco High School, Vasquez holds a bachelors degree in ecological restoration. She launched a job search as her college classes were coming to a close and was shocked to find her age could pose a problem.

I submitted an application to the National Park Service for a job in San Francisco. I felt I was qualified for it, and I got an email stating I could not be considered because I am not 21, she said.

It had never crossed her radar that there might be minimum age requirements in her field.

Vasquez has been among the youngest in her peer group after she was allowed to skip kindergarten and was promoted to first grade.

During her first semester at A&M, she encountered some obstacles with release forms for out-of-town field trips with one of her classes because she was younger than 18. But she never gave her age another thought. Until now.

Vasquez is looking for a part-time job and seeking certification classes that can enhance her resume.

She turns 20 next month. She is living in College Station in an apartment  her lease is for the rest of the school year  and trying to make ends meet by visiting the local food pantry.

If a part-time job does not materialize, she is going to head back to the Rio Grande Valley, where her parents live. Payments on $10,000 in student loans start soon.

Her mom, Maria Vasquez, a registered nurse at a hospital in South Texas, went to Facebook to ask for guidance from other parents of young college graduates.

Judging from the response she received, few had considered the downside of graduating early. One mom posted that her daughter encountered a similar problem when she graduated at age 20 and sought social work employment, a field that generally requires applicants be 21 years old.

Maria Vasquez was also advised not to be surprised if her daughter has difficulty finding housing. She was told that many apartment complexes, other than those located in college towns, are hesitant to rent to tenants younger than 21.

Audrey Magnuson, director of the Career Center at the University of Texas at San Antonio, has not encountered any students in Vasquezs predicament during her tenure at the citys largest public university, but the situation does not surprise her.

Think about it: At that age they have little work experience, she said.

Graduates who are 19 will not have any corporate experience and probably did not have opportunities for internships.

Most students are older than 21 when they graduate, and many take more than four years to earn their degree. According to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, Texas achieved a 60.5 percent six-year college graduation rate from its public universities in fiscal year 2014.

UTSA sees its fair share of what Magnuson calls the fast burners. These are students who arrive on campus with amazing resumes and who have accelerated their studies through dual enrollment or other programs.

Usually, they dont head into the workforce right after they complete their undergraduate degrees. Many study aboard, or pursue graduate programs or seek professional degrees in law or medical fields, she said.

Magnuson encourages those who find themselves in Vasquezs situation to seek internships and do as Vasquez is doing  beef up their resumes with certifications.

She also encourages students to use the resources of career centers at their nearest university for their job hunt. Most public universities have reciprocity agreements that allow graduates from other universities to access their career center resources. A letter from the graduates alma mater may be required, she said, but that is not difficult to obtain.

Who would have thought that being too successful in the pursuit of higher education could have a downside, if only temporarily?

gpadilla@express-news.net
A long time ago, San Antonio teens knew of a place far away known as the Death Loop.

For many of us growing up in neighborhoods inside Loop 410 back in the early 80s, Loop 1604 was far, far away.

And, for adventurous teens with drivers licenses, a car, enough cash to fill up the gas tank, a box filled with Rush, Ronnie James Dio or Van Halen cassettes  or Duran Duran, Pet Shop Boys and The Cure  and a desire to go to the Exxon at the end of the world, it made for good cruising.

There, driving along the dark reaches of the urban area surrounded by sleeping construction equipment and livestock, teens could drive with the windows down and the volume way up, talking about what we did that day and about high school and what we were going to do once we left the confines of 1604 to make our mark in the world.

Eventually, we grew up. Some of us moved to megacities with bedroom communities that felt bigger than San Antonio; others went to college towns with scenic views and green spaces a half-hour away from the nearest strip mall. We went away to bigger places and brought back bigger ideas. Our friends came to visit our unique city and decided to stay.

Some of us stayed and found that we didnt have to leave home to visit a theme park or shop high-end retail. As job opportunities grew, so did the city, and soon, we were the weekend destination for South Texas. A lot of those guests came back and stayed.

And so, even though it never left, the loop grew.

It got wider. It got bigger, with better lights. As the construction equipment increased and the livestock decreased, it went from being Way Out in The Sticks to The Quickest Way Home. It became a safer thoroughfare and lost that distant, deathly mystique. And it got so crowded, especially along the chunk between Bandera Road and I-35, that it lost its end-of-the-world appeal.

Nobodys called it the Death Loop in years.

Last week, San Antonio Express-News Staff Writer Bruce Selcraig reported that the Metropolitan Planning Organization recommends the busiest part of Loop 1604 be turned into a toll road, but changes wouldnt come around for about a decade. And the estimated price for a one-way cruise? Four bucks and change.

Back in the 80s, that could buy you a couple of Puffin Billys Rail Rider Specials. But were not back in the 80s.

San Antonio has grown, especially in the North Central corridor along U.S. 281 where it meets the now-mighty Loop 1604. In the past few years, shiny new ramps have taken us soaring past stoplights at the junction. Things are faster, smoother, nicer.

Thing is, were not done growing. San Antonio will continue to grow, and if youve been stuck on that entrance ramp just beyond the Legacy Shopping Center, you might think that it cant get any worse.

Be assured that it can and, if nothing is done, it will.

Tolls hurt. Paying to get from point A to point B hurts everybody, and it especially hurts minimum-wage workers who will have to factor an extra transportation expense into already tight budgets.

But as much as San Antonians complain about growth-area gridlock, the area just keeps growing.

You cant turn back the clock, and you cant stop the growth.

mariaanglin@yahoo.com
Sexual assault isnt a partisan issue in Texas. Even in a state legislature that is often contentious, sensible bipartisan sexual assault legislation has been the norm.

That is, until now.

Those of us who have dedicated our lives to sexual assault policy were dismayed to learn that Senate leaders have characterized Senate Bill 6  the bathroom bill  as a protective measure against sexual predators lurking in public restrooms. In reality, the bill would do little to reduce sexual assault and reflects an ignorance of decades of research on the subject.

There is no doubt that sexual assault is a serious problem in Texas. According to the Institute on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault at the University of Texas at Austin, 6.3 million Texans have experienced some form of sexual assault in their lifetimes. Thats one third of all Texans  two in five women and one in five men. Between 20 percent and 23 percent of all children and adolescents in Texas have experienced sexual assault.

But if the goal is to prevent sexual assault, SB 6s focus is in all the wrong places. According to the FBI, 93 percent of juvenile sexual assault victims are abused by people they know, not by strangers. While SB 6s proponents ignore the evidence and stir panic about strangers in bathrooms, the real risk to children comes from people already close to them  family members, acquaintances, friends and authority figures.

We cant simply dismiss this as a harmless blunder. As advocates committed to ending sexual violence, we oppose any policy that is likely to put people at greater risk of violence. Transgender people are already extremely vulnerable  between 50 percent and 66 percent have experienced sexual assaults or beatings. Forcing people into facilities inconsistent with their genders and outward appearances would create a grave risk of hate-based violence.

In addition, SB 6 legitimizes thoroughly debunked myths about who commits sexual assault and how to prevent it.

Sexual assault victim advocates throughout our state strive to educate their communities about sexual violence, to eliminate stigma around victimization, and to promote evidence-based prevention measures. When our states top leaders contradict them, they undermine the urgent work happening on the ground to keep our communities safe.

Finally, prioritizing SB 6 at the Capitol will jeopardize essential sexual assault legislation, much of which has been filed by members of the lieutenant governors own party. At the Capitol, every hour counts. The Texas Constitution requires legislators to approve a two-year budget for the worlds 10th-largest economy before passing any other bills  a massive undertaking. Any time spent debating SB 6 puts other legislation in peril.

If the Legislature wants to prioritize sexual assault policy this session, we applaud them. Theres plenty of work to do. But we implore them to focus on policies that truly make a difference for survivors.

Foremost, they should protect the states 117 rape crisis centers  the backbone of support, counseling, and advocacy for sexual assault victims  from the substantial funding cuts that officials projected last summer. Centers in smaller, rural areas face an existential threat.

In addition, they should vociferously support their colleagues on both sides of the aisle who have spent months developing practical, evidence-based legislation. Those include Sen. Jane Nelsons SB 77, which would allow sexual assault victims to terminate their rapists parental rights over shared children; SB 339 and HB 142 by Sen. Charles Perry and Rep. Joe Moody, which would finally criminalize groping in Texas; SB 257 and HB 472 by Sen. Van Taylor and Rep. Tony Dale, to improve victim safety in civil protective order processes; and HB 281 by Rep. Donna Howard, which would enable sexual assault victims to track their rape kits through the criminal process.

If lawmakers are truly committed to reducing sexual violence, they can be certain that advocates and victims will be there to help, fierce and unrelenting.

But, they cannot claim to speak for the millions of Texans who have survived sexual assault without putting in the work to understand their needs.

Annette Burrhus-Clay is executive director of the Texas Association Against Sexual Assault.
I was excited when I learned that every Wednesday evening there is an official public meeting of San Antonio citizens and City Council members. I signed up, wrote my three-minute speech, and headed to the council chambers with a nervousness about what I was going to say, and how it was going to be heard by the council.

I found my seat just before 6 p.m. and saw there were only 20 or 25 people in attendance. I was told that some meetings drew hundreds, but I guess that only happened when notable agenda items were to be voted on the next day.

As the first speaker was called, I became very concerned that only four or five council members were in attendance. The mayor was missing, too.

I stayed and listened. I could tell that most of the speakers were regulars who gave the same, tired spiel. The City Council members, who were there, didnt look particularly interested, and there was no vocal response to any speaker other than, Next speaker.

I finally spoke and by the end of the meeting, only three members were listening. I left feeling disappointed and confused about why these meetings even take place.

After having the same experience at two more meetings, I decided to post about Citizens To Be Heard, or CTBH, in a Facebook Group that I moderate called Ideas for CoSA.

The reaction from the group members was overwhelming  and telling.

Cynthia Spielman said, It was mentioned to me by a council member that CTBH was ineffective because no one listens.

Jaime Gonzalez pointed out, Citizens-to-be-Heard is now colloquially known as Citizens-to-be-Ignored.

John Fisher added, Im ignored by 311 (the city services number). Why would I want to be ignored in person?

There were dozens more comments, and no one had anything positive to say about the CTBH meetings.

My initial conclusion was that we should scrap the meeting all together. However, I know that the value of the public being allowed a forum was at stake. It should be preserved and improved upon.

Using the feedback from the Ideas for CoSA Community, I put together a few suggestions to reform CTBH meetings to make them more effective and efficient for citizens and City Council members.

Instead of having weekly citywide meetings, each district should hold monthly district town hall-style meetings. Your council members attendance would be mandatory. To bring us all together, citywide meetings could be held on a quarterly or bimonthly basis.

We also need public responses from City Council members. Whats the point of speaking to a wall? Our council members should be required to publicly respond to our comments so we know we are being heard and we know what our council members think about what we say.

Finally, an online forum is needed to keep CTBH open and available 24/7.

Communication technology (e.g., social media or online forums) is the only mechanism that can effectively organize the voices of thousands of people into a beneficial (crowd) source of information. Public meetings are important, but nothing could amplify the voice of citizens more than a well-designed online community.

As our city continues to grow and face new challenges, I cant think of anything more important than leveraging San Antonios greatest asset  our fellow San Antonians. With the right platform and public space, more citizens will speak up, collaborate, and learn from each other.

Our City Council will have better information about what we want and how to achieve our goals. Most important, San Antonio will become a city where everyone has the opportunity to contribute to the management of our public spaces and services.

Paul DiGiovanni moderates the Ideas for CoSA Community  a Facebook group focused on improving the city of San Antonio through civic engagement.
The definition of crisis: a time when a difficult or important decision must be made.

Nothing is closer to the truth for the 85th legislative session. Words such as broken, unfulfilled, underfunded, fractured, ill-equipped, damaged have all been spoken and written by federal judges, legislators, journalists, child welfare experts and practitioners  all describing the states foster care system.

Although, those words are meant to describe the system, the reality is that so often those same words are used to describe the children in foster care. For decades, we have allowed a broken system to produce broken results. National research has demonstrated that children who enter the foster care system tend to do worse than their peers in academics, overall health and economic success.

This year, we have seen and heard big Texas talk about the importance of fixing it. Well, the rubber meets the road with the new Legislature.

The crisis for the foster care system can be attributed to one main factor, underfunding. Underfunding has created a system that does not have enough foster homes available for children; a system where children are lingering in residential facilities longer than needed; a system where children are exiting more damaged than when they entered; and, as reported by federal Judge Janis Jack, a system where children are sleeping in government offices or hotel rooms. It is a system that understaffs and underpays its workers  all because of a lack of appropriated funding.

In October, the commissioner for the Department of Family and Protective Services, Hank Whitman, asked for $53.3 million to add 829 state caseworkers. In addition, he asked for $8.2 million in funding to increase state caseworkers salaries. Both sums are much needed and a good beginning to start fixing the underfunded foster care system. However, this only begins to address one part of the problem. This will help decrease caseworker turnover and assist with timely monitoring visits of children and will ensure that children are located and concerns are investigated, but once the child is removed, where and with whom do children spend the majority of their time?

Children spend most of their time with private providers who contract with the state. Immediately after being removed from a potentially abusive or neglectful situation, many of the children are placed in emergency placements which take the form of either an emergency shelter or foster home. If it is determined that children cannot be reunited with their biological family or placed with a relative, the child will be placed with a foster family.

If the child is exhibiting behavioral or emotional issues, they will be placed in a Residential Treatment Facility or in a therapeutic foster home. Each of these placements requires 24-hour care by private providers, with the state providing monitoring visits throughout the month. So when we tally up the time, children spend the majority of their time with staff and foster families who are employed by private providersnot state employees.

Therefore, when we talk about fixing the system, we have to talk about the part of the system that provides the majority of the care. Its with the private Texas foster care providers. Most of these are reputable nonprofit organizations with long histories of serving children and families in their communities. They have developed programs that keep children safe and promote their well-being.

Like untapped oil, Texas foster care providers are a resource that has yet to be fully utilized for their expertise and quality of care for children. Texas foster care providers care for 90 percent of the children in the system. They help children heal from the abuse or neglect they have endured at the hands of family, help children find forever families if their biological parents are not an option, help children transition from foster care to adult living.

But unlike the oil industry, Texas foster care providers have been historically underfunded to provide the needed and critical services that children require and deserve. On average, Texas foster care providers are reimbursed at approximately 80 percent of the true cost of caring for children.

If the appropriate investments were made with Texas foster care providers, the investment would result in an overall improved system. The investment would enable Texas providers to increase and expand their services by increasing capacity of foster homes, which would result in a reduction in the time a child has to stay in a residential facility. It would also result in the state having to place fewer children in psychiatric hospitals when it is not necessary. But this happens because Residential Treatment Centers have reduced their bed capacity due to the low reimbursement rates.

In addition, Texas foster care providers recognize that the best place for children is in a family setting.

If we want to fix the foster care system, we have to invest in the whole system.

Fund the Department of Family & Protective Services so that it has the resources to do its job. And fund the Texas foster care providers so that they can do theirs  which is to provide quality care to children and families.

Annette Rodriguez is president and CEO of The Childrens Shelter in San Antonio.
The Texas Legislature is facing some tough fiscal decisions in the months ahead, and it looks like it may attempt to balance the state budget on the backs of Texas school children. Again.

Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegars revenue projections indicate lawmakers will have $4 billion to $6 billion less to spend in the next biennium than two years ago, when they adopted the last budget. The budget woes stem from tax cuts in 2015, the decisions to earmark some of the states funds to transportation, and a downturn in the oil and gas industry.

Preliminary budgets released by House and Senate leaders show they are billions of dollars apart on their spending plans and on how those funds should be divvied up, especially for public education.

The proposed House budget of $221 billion increases public education funding by $1.5 billion above enrollment growth costs.

The Senates budget proposal totals only $213.4 billion, and on the surface it appears to include increased spending on public education. In reality, the additional funding would only cover the 100,000 children who were added to school rolls in the past two years.

Education is not the only squeaky wheel this session. Child Protective Services and mental health services are also high on the priority list for increased funding by lawmakers. This could get nasty.

Making good on campaign promises to lower taxes and reduce spending while maintaining services for a growing Texas population is not going to be easy.

Its no wonder that some elected officials are eyeing the $2 billion that has been generated by higher school property tax values to bail them out of their fiscal woes.

As Staff Writer Peggy Fikac recently reported, because of the way public school funding formulas work when local school tax revenue spike due to higher values, the states share of public education funding goes down.

The use of smoke and mirrors and creative finance strategies may play well to fiscal conservatives back home, but they dont bode well for school districts struggling to do more with less.

Over the years, Texas lawmakers have managed to divert billions of dollars that should have been earmarked for schools to myriad purposes unrelated to education.

In 2013, school district property taxes accounted for roughly 55 percent of a taxpayers property tax bill. The other two major taxing entities, municipalities and counties, accounted for just over 16 percent each, Fikac reports.

Most taxpayers would be surprised to learn that the higher school tax bills they are paying do not necessarily mean more money is going to their neighborhood schools.

Texas public school finance system is desperately in need of repair. This is a decades-old issue that has landed in court repeatedly. During the past couple of sessions, legislators made no attempt to address the problem, choosing instead to wait until the latest lawsuit made its way through the courts.

The Texas Supreme Courts ruling in May favoring the state was a major blow to public education supporters. The states highest court found that although the current school finance system is far from perfect, it meets minimum requirements set out in the Texas Constitution.

In its majority opinion, the court noted that the current Texas school system leaves much to be desired.

Few would argue that the state cannot do better, it said.

That ruling was more than six months ago, and regrettably little was done to address the shortcoming prior to the legislative session. Finally last week the Senate Finace committee empaneled a budget working group to work with the Senate Education Committee to address the issue.

Sen. Kirk Watson, D-Austin, has filed several education-related bills seeking to establish a fair and equitable school finance system. Included in his package is legislation to ensure that state funding for public education does not decrease as property values rise.

The increased funding proposal for public education in the Houses budget plan works only if the state reduces the amount of money that high property wealth districts send to the state for redistribution.

The House and Senate are not only billions of dollars apart on this one, they are coming at it with totally different mindsets.

Its going to be an uphill battle for public education to gain any ground this session.

Last year, Texas ranked 38th in state spending per pupil. Given the political climate, it is doubtful Texas 5.2 million schoolchildren will fare any better during the 85th Legislature.
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SACRAMENTO  Gov. Jerry Brown will undergo additional treatment for prostate cancer, which was first diagnosed in 2012, his office announced Saturday.

The 78-year-old governor will continue to work during a short course of radiation therapy, and his prognosis is excellent, Dr. Eric Small, Browns oncologist at UCSF Medical Center, said in a statement.

Fortunately, this is not extensive disease, Small said in the statement released by Browns office. There are not expected to be any significant side effects.

Brown first disclosed he was being treated for prostate cancer in 2012. He received radiotherapy then for what Small described then as early-stage, localized prostate cancer.

In 2011, Brown underwent outpatient surgery to remove a slow-growing form of skin cancer on his nose. The illnesses are common as people age.

The governor will receive the additional treatment between late February and early March, his office said in a statement. He will continue his full work schedule during the treatment.

Radiation therapy is a standard treatment when the cancer is localized to the prostate and hasn't spread to other parts of the body. Radiation can be applied two different ways  either externally, through beams directed at the cancerous area, or internally, through radioactive seeds the size of a rice grain that are implanted in the prostate. Browns office did not comment further on the governors diagnosis or treatment.

Brown will term out as governor in 2018. He has not announced any plans to run for another office. Brown and his wife, Anne Gust Brown, are having a home built at his familys Colusa County ranch.

Browns announcement comes after Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton announced last week that he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Dayton, 69, made the announcement the day after he collapsed during his State of the State speech Monday.

Melody Gutierrez is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: mgutierrez@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @MelodyGutierrez
ISTANBUL - After working as an interpreter for an American security company in Iraq, and enduring years of background checks after he applied for a U.S. visa, Labeeb Ali's plans to move to the United States ended abruptly Saturday in an airport in Qatar, where officials prevented Ali, an Iraqi citizen, from boarding a flight to Texas.

"I have the visa in my passport," he said, hours later, after he had stopped yelling at the airport staff and his rage had given way to despair. He had already sold his car and electronics shop in Iraq, in preparation for the move, and done "everything they told me to do," he said, referring to U.S. officials, who he said had granted him a special immigrant visa on Jan. 24.

"They have killed my dream," he said. "They took it away from me, in the last minutes."

President Donald Trump's order Friday to temporarily ban citizens from several Muslim-majority countries spread anguish, panic and confusion in airports around the globe Saturday, as nationals of the countries affected by the order were barred by airlines from traveling, abruptly changed their plans or were detained upon arrival in the United States.

Airlines rushed to disseminate guidelines on how Trump's order would affect travel, even as officials in the United States were still puzzling over how exactly to interpret the order's language.

Lufthansa, the German carrier, released a statement saying it was "obliged by law to strictly adhere to US immigration requirements." But, reflecting the confusion over the U.S. directive, the airline said only that citizens of the affected countries "might not be accepted onboard US flights."

The executive order, titled "Protecting the Nation from Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States," bars citizens from Syria, Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Sudan, Somalia and Libya, all predominantly Muslim nations, from entering the United States for the next 90 days. The order also indefinitely bars Syrian refugees from resettlement in the United States and suspends entry of all refugees from any country for 120 days.

Ali, the Iraqi citizen, said that two Syrians were also stopped from boarding the same flight to Texas. In Egypt, security officials stopped five Iraqi citizens and a Yemeni national from boarding a flight from Cairo to the United States, because their visas "had a problem," an Egyptian security official said. The Iraqis were waiting to be sent back to Irbil, in northern Iraq, the official said.

There were unconfirmed reports that Iranian visitors as well as permanent green-card holders were restricted from traveling to the United States by officials at airports in Amsterdam and Abu Dhabi as well as Qatar, according to Hazhir Rahmandad, an Iranian American professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology who created a crowdsourced database to track Iranian travelers affected by the ban.

While the details in the database could not be independently verified, the reports also suggested scores of Iranian visitors and green-card holders were also being turned away at several airports upon arrival in the United States.

The data and reports so far "suggest there is confusion among border agents about how to treat" the various categories of visa holders, Rahmandad said, adding that his parents are green-card holders, but are currently in Iran.

Erin Cunningham in Istanbul and Heba Farouk Mahfouz in Cairo contributed to this report.

Kareem Fahim is a Middle East correspondent for The Post.

@kfahim




* Trump slaps 4-month hold on refugees entering U.S.

* Halts visitors from 7 mainly Muslim states for 90 days

* Five Iraqis, one Yemeni barred from Cairo-New York flight

* Trump's order stirs chaos, confusion at airports

* Violates U.S. law on freedom of religion -rights groups

* France, Germany say welcoming refugees is "our duty"

* Iran's Rouhani: No time to build walls between nations

By Emily, Stephenson and Eric Knecht

WASHINGTON/CAIRO, Jan 28 (Reuters) - Five Iraqi passengers and one Yemeni were barred from boarding an EgyptAir flight from Cairo to New York on Saturday after President Donald Trump halted the entry of citizens from seven Muslim-majority countries, sources at Cairo airport said.

The passengers, arriving in transit to Cairo airport, were stopped and re-directed to flights headed for their home countries despite holding valid visas, the sources said.

Trump on Friday put a four-month hold on allowing refugees into the United States and temporarily barred travelers from Syria and six other Muslim-majority countries, saying the moves would help protect Americans from terrorist attacks.

He said his most sweeping use of his presidential powers since taking office a week ago, barring travelers from the seven nations for at least 90 days, would give his administration time to develop more stringent screening procedures for refugees, immigrants and visitors.

"I'm establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America. Don't want them here," Trump said earlier on Friday at the Pentagon.

"We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people," he said.

The bans, though temporary, took effect immediately, causing havoc and confusion for would-be travelers with passports from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

Besides Cairo it was not immediately clear whether other airports of countries listed by Trump had swiftly implemented the ban. Arab officials of the listed countries would not comment on the matter.

Story continues

The order seeks to prioritize refugees fleeing religious persecution, a move Trump separately said was aimed at helping Christians in Syria. That led some legal experts to question whether the order was constitutional.

One group said it would announce a court challenge on Monday. The Council on American-Islamic Relations said the order targets Muslims because of their faith, contravening the U.S. Constitutional right to freedom of religion.

"President Trump has cloaked what is a discriminatory ban against nationals of Muslim countries under the banner of national security," said Greg Chen of the American Immigration Lawyers Association.

Trump has long pledged to take this kind of action, making it a prominent feature of his campaign for the Nov. 8 election. But people who work with Muslim immigrants and refugees were scrambling to determine the scope of the order.

Even legal permanent residents - people with "green cards" allowing them to live and work in the United States - were being advised to consult immigration lawyers before traveling outside the country, or trying to return, according to Muslim Advocates, a civil rights group in Washington.

On Friday evening, Abed Ayoub of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee said he had fielded about 100 queries from people anxious about the order, which he said he believed could affect traveling green card holders, students, people coming to the United States for medical care and others. "It's chaos," Ayoub said.

SYRIAN REFUGEES

During his campaign, Trump tapped into American fears about Islamic State militants and the flood of migrants into Europe from Syria's civil war, saying refugees could be a "Trojan horse" that allowed attackers to enter the United States.

In December 2015, he called for a ban on all Muslims entering the United States, drawing fire for suggesting a religious test for immigrants that critics said would violate the U.S. Constitution.

His idea later evolved into a proposal for "extreme vetting."

Trump's order also suspends the Syrian refugee program until further notice, and will eventually give priority to minority religious groups fleeing persecution.

Trump said in an interview with the Christian Broadcasting Network that the exception would help Syrian Christians fleeing the civil war there.

Legal experts were divided on whether this order would be constitutional.

"If they are thinking about an exception for Christians, in almost any other legal context discriminating in favor of one religion and against another religion could violate the constitution," said Stephen Legomsky, a former chief counsel at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services in the Obama administration.

But Peter Spiro, a professor at Temple University Beasley School of Law, said Trump's action would likely be constitutional because the president and Congress are allowed considerable deference when it comes to asylum decisions.

"It's a completely plausible prioritization, to the extent this group is actually being persecuted," Spiro said.

The order may also affect special refugee programs for Iraqis who worked for the U.S. government as translators after the 2003 invasion of Iraq.

It is already affecting refugees and their families, said Jen Smyers of the Church World Service, a Protestant faith-based group that works with migrants. Smyers said she spoke to an Iraqi mother whose twin daughters remain in Iraq due to processing delays. "Those two 18-year-old daughters won't be able to join their mother in the U.S.," she said.

POLITICAL FIRE

Democrats on Friday were quick to condemn Trump's order as un-American, saying it would tarnish the reputation of the United States as a land that welcomes immigrants.

"Today's executive order from President Trump is more about extreme xenophobia than extreme vetting," said Democratic Senator Edward Markey in a statement.

Some Republicans praised the move. Representative Bob Goodlatte, chairman of the House of Representatives Judiciary Committee, said Islamic State has threatened to use the U.S. immigration system, making it important to do more screening.

"I am pleased that President Trump is using the tools granted to him by Congress and the power granted by the Constitution to help keep America safe and ensure we know who is entering the United States," Goodlatte said in a statement.

Without naming Trump, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday it was no time to build walls between nations and criticized steps towards cancelling world trade agreements.

Trump on Wednesday ordered the construction of a U.S.-Mexican border wall, a major promise during his election campaign, as part of a package of measures to curb illegal immigration.

"Today is not the time to erect walls between nations. They have forgotten that the Berlin wall fell years ago," Rouhani said in a speech carried live on Iranian state television.

He made no direct reference to Trump's order regarding refugees and travelers from the seven mainly Muslim states.

Rouhani, a pragmatist elected in 2013, thawed Iran's relations with world powers after years of confrontation and engineered its 2015 deal with them under which it curbed its nuclear program in exchange for relief from sanctions.

Rouhani said earlier this month that Trump could not unilaterally cancel the nuclear deal and that talk of renegotiating it was "meaningless".

France and Germany voiced disquiet on Saturday over Trump's new restrictions on immigration.

"Welcoming refugees who flee war and oppression is part of our duty," French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault said at a joint news conference with German counterpart Sigmar Gabriel.

"The United States is a country where Christian traditions have an important meaning. Loving your neighbor is a major Christian value, and that includes helping people," said Gabriel. "I think that is what unites us in the West, and I think that is what we want to make clear to the Americans."

(Additional reporting by Mica Rosenberg, Andrew Chung, Eric Beech, Mohammad Zargham, Dan Levine, Michelle Nichols, Julia Edwards Ainsley, Andrea Shalal and Firouz Sedarat; writing by Roberta Rampton and Samia Nakhoul; editing by Mark Heinrich)
TOP Zanu PF officials, among them politburo members, from the former President Robert Mugabe-led regime have reportedly circled President Emmerson Mnangagwa , jostling for Cabinet posts ahead of the announcement of a new structure likely to be unveiled this week, NewsDay has heard.

This came as war veterans yesterday warned Mnangagwa to guard against dumping people who remained in the trenches fighting for his cause at a time the majority of current politburo members were merry-making with the former First Family and plotting his downfall.

Sources yesterday said there was fierce jostling and jockeying for top positions in Mnangagwas new administration with Water Resources Development and Climate minister Oppah Muchinguri, Kembo Mohadi (State Security) and Obert Mpofu (Home Affairs), reportedly eyeing the Vice-Presidency.

These people are trying to outdo each other so that they land posts in the new government. Some are even trying to ring-fence the President so that they have sole access to him and control the appointment process, yet these are the same people who wanted him out of government, a top party official who declined to be named, said.

Muchinguri, however, dismissed reports that she was canvassing for the Vice-Presidents post, saying she would be happy with any appointment given to her by Mnangagwa.

Well, its up to the President to identify areas where I could be of help or of assistance to him. If I remain in my position, I am comfortable with it as I have always been, she said.

Muchinguri added: You will remember when we pushed hard to have a woman Vice-President, I was at the forefront campaigning, but I did not consider myself as a candidate as was the situation and case with the former First Lady (Grace Mugabe).

She herself was doing everything, changing structures just to fit her personal interests. In my case, I paved way for Amai (Joice) Mujuru whom I respected because she was senior to me. So I am saying I am not a person who is greedy, who at every juncture wants a position, no. I will wait until the President decides what he wants to do with me.

Efforts to contact Mohadi and Mpofu were fruitless yesterday as their mobile phones were not going through.

Party spokesperson Simon Khaya Moyo yesterday said he was yet to be briefed on when the new Cabinet would be announced.

I dont know when because I have not been informed of anything on that issue, Khaya Moyo, who according to sources, is likely to take a full-time job at the party headquarters ahead of elections next year, said.

Former War Veterans minister Christopher Mutsvangwa is set to bounce back into Cabinet after leading a vicious campaign to depose Mugabe.

Mnangagwas other top allies July Moyo and former Finance minister Patrick Chinamasa were also reportedly earmarked to have leading roles in the new Cabinet alongside Josaya Hungwe and many others who fought in his corner.

There was also speculation that Mugabes former spokesperson George Charamba would be appointed to head the Information ministry, but he will have to resign from government first before his appointment.

The anticipated changes would likely have many casualties, especially those perceived as members of Mugabes inner circle.

Those likely to be axed for being closely-linked to Mugabe include Mines minister Walter Chidakwa, Joseph Made (Agriculture), Happyton Bonyongwe (Justice), Mike Bimha (Industry), Lazarus Dokora (Primary and Secondary) and Tourism minister Edgar Mbwembwe.

These would likely add to the list of known Mugabe bootlickers, the majority of whom have already fled the country or gone into hiding for fear of reprisals and stand no chance of bouncing back into Cabinet.

Former Higher Education minister Jonathan Moyo and Local Government minister Saviour Kasukuwere now believed to be hiding in Kenya, Public Service minister Patrick Zhuwao and Foreign Affairs minister Walter Mzembi could be ruled out of the race as they were perceived to be G40 kingpins who fought viciously for Grace Mugabe to succeed her 93-year-old husband before Mugabe threw in the towel last Tuesday following pressure from the military, citizens and his regional peers.

Addressing an extraordinary Zanu PF Manicaland provincial co-ordinating committee meeting yesterday, Muchinguri praised Mnangagwa for holding back when he was publicly dressed down by junior party members among them former First Lady Grace.

Mnangagwa did not fight back. He is a mature person, he was attacked and you would see him smiling, we need healing, our journey was difficult, but dont allow your wives into politics. I was given a Lacoste face and I was happy because I was in the right faction, she said.

There are issues in other provinces. We dont want to follow what was done by the G4O faction, our decisions should not be controlled by emotions. I am told in Mashonaland East David Parirenyatwa and Sydney Sekeremayi have been sacked, we need a healing journey. We should not expel each other, we are not like G40, but people should reform. People were given money to support certain figures, some members in the G4O used Grace Mugabe to gain power.

Zanu PF secretary for legal affairs Chinamasa, who also doubled as Finance minister before his recent demotion to the Cyber Security ministry told the gathering that Grace clandestinely ran government business since 2013 after usurping executive powers from increasingly frail Mugabe.

Let me tell you one thing, Grace had been ruling the country since 2013. After the elections, she was the one in power, Chinamasa said.

Addressing a similar gathering in Mashonaland East province, provincial chairperson Joel Biggie Matiza claimed he had received orders from the top to stop the purging of Mugabes allies.

This was after 36 top officials had been shortlisted for suspension over their alleged G40 links. These included Sekeramayi, Parirenyatwa, Bimha, Charity Manyeruke, Lawrence Katsiru, Bernard Makokove, Jeremiah Chiwetu, Biata Nyamupinga, Foster Gwanzura and Kelvin Mutsvairo, among others.

Yesterday, the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA) called on Mnangagwa to dump cowards who allowed the party to be captured while they clapped hands.

We have noticed that there are people who used to clap hands while Mnangagwa was being insulted by Grace, they failed to protect the ethos of the revolution and hide behind a finger while feeding their own stomachs, yet now they are ring-fencing our President for selfish reasons. We appeal to our President not to allow these thieves anywhere close to power, ZNLWVA Mashonaland West chairman and Sanyati MP Blessing Geza said at a Press conference.

Breaking News via Email
A 24-year-old Ballito woman is set to become former president Jacob Zumas seventh bride.

Nonkanyiso Conco confirmed to TimesLIVE that she and the elder statesman were set to wed.

Yes we are getting married but that is all I can say. I need to consult before I give any interviews she said.

She would not be drawn on their courtship and their relationship in general. Conco is a director of the Pietermaritzburg-based Nomkhubulwane Culture and Youth Development Organisation aimed at protecting the cultural practices of young Zulu women.

Conco reportedly resides in the plush Ballito Estate Hilltop home to some of the citys most well-heeled residents. She would be Zumas youngest bride at 52 years his junior.

The Citizen reports that Zuma and his family have apparently already paid lobola for her, and both families are understood to be happy with the union.

Zuma who has always been a proponent of polygamy is currently married to Gertrude Sizakele Khumalo Thobeka Madiba-Zuma and Bongi Ngema-Zuma. He is divorced from Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma and separated from Nompumelelo MaNtuli Zuma.

All the former presidents brides

The 24-year-old Conco will join the rank and file of six other woman betrothed to Zuma:

He tied the knot with first wife Sizakele Khumalo in 1973 after he was released from Robben Island.

In 1976 he married Kate Mantsho mother to twins Duduzile and Duduzane. She committed suicide in 2000. The Sunday Times reported that she died as a result of an overdose.

In 1982 he married Nkosazana Dlamini. The couple had several children and divorced in 1998.

In 2008 he wedded Nompumelelo Ntuli. The two later separated after a purported poisoning plot.

Two years later in 2010 he married Tobeka Madiba.

Gloria Bongi Ngema an accomplished businesswoman from Umlazi joined the wives club in 2012.

 TimesLive

Breaking News via Email
Former President Robert Mugabe yesterday implored the nation to rally behind President Emmerson Mnangagwa, saying his election victory in the July 30 harmonised elections legitimised his leadership.

The remarks by the ex-president were buttressed by his wife, Grace, who said they would pray for President Mnangagwa as his leadership was God-given.

Mr Mugabe and his wife said this last night while addressing mourners gathered at their Blue Roof residence to pay their condolence following the death of Gogo Idah Marufu, mother to the former First Lady.

Mr Mugabe said it was time to put behind events of November last year in which he resigned just after the military stepped in.

He said people should work together for the good of the country.

There was an election, Zanu-PF was represented by Emmerson Mnangagwa and (Nelson) Chamisa represented MDC Alliance and results came out saying the person who won was Emmerson Mnangagwa and I said now its clear, said Mugabe.

You cant dispute it. It is now clear. What had been in dispute has been corrected through the election results. We have accepted the result and we hope that we will continue respecting the will of the people. The gun does not and should not lead politics, he said.

All of us are now duty bound to rally behind the Government. But we say those who want to contest should be allowed to do so and after every five years, but we say for now the person who won is Mr Mnangagwa.

Mr Mugabe said it was never his intention to install his wife as President. He reiterated that he wanted former Cabinet Minister, Dr Sydney Sekeramayi, to take over from him at the 2017 Zanu-PF congress subject to endorsement by the party.

He said President Mnangagwas Government had returned to constitutionalism after the election.

Mr Mugabe said he preferred Dr Sekeramayi because he had entered into politics ahead of President Mnangagwa.

He said his wife was not qualified to be Head of State and Government since she had never assumed any Government office either as a Cabinet Minister or Member of Parliament and he never wanted her to assume the presidency.

Ambition to be a President, he said. How could she be a President when she was never a Minister? There is a route one takes before you become a President. You have to be a Minister or Member of Parliament. My wife was neither of these two, so it was impossible for her to assume the post. That is when I recommended Sekeramayi, after I had spoken to Thabo Mbeki, suggesting that he becomes President.

Mr Mugabe hailed President Mnangagwa for Government support at the funeral wake for his mother-in-law.

Mrs Mugabe commended President Mnangagwa for his leadership, saying it was God-given and pledged to pray for him.

She said President Mnangagwa had chartered a new aircraft to fly her back to Harare from Singapore where she was receiving medical treatment, to mourn her mother.

Mrs Mugabe said this demonstrated President Mnangagwas kindness.

We used to travel using commercial flights during our tenure as the First Family. That has changed, she said.

President Mnangagwa charters a flight. It just takes us a phone call. It was a beautiful plane, a brand new Gulfstream 650 from Qatar.

If I get rich I will buy such an aircraft. I have never boarded such a plane. The crew told me that I was the first person to board it. It is my dream plane. I felt comforted. VaMnangagwa comforted me. If it takes my mothers death for us to restore our old friendship, then let it be.

VaMnangagwa loves us. He knows we love him too. We pray for him because it is Gods will that he is President of the country. We pray that he be given the wisdom to lead the country.

Mrs Mugabe said before leaving for Beijing, China, last week, President Mnangagwa left a message assuring them that Government, through Vice President Constantine Chiwenga, would take care of their funeral expenses.

She dismissed media reports that they were placed under house arrest when Parliament instituted impeachment proceedings against Mr Mugabe in November last year.

 Chronicle

Breaking News via Email
Donald Trump and Pena Nieto

President Donald Trump spoke by phone with Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto on Friday morning, Trump confirmed in a joint press conference with British Prime Minister Theresa May on Friday afternoon.

"We had a very good call. I have been very strong on Mexico. I have great respect for Mexico," Trump told reporters when asked about his rift with the Mexican president over who would pay for the wall the Trump administration is seeking to build on the US-Mexico border.

"But, as you know, Mexico with the United States has outnegotiated us and beat us to a pulp through our past leaders," Trump continued. "They've made us look foolish."

Mexico released a readout of Trump's call with Pena Nieto on Friday that said the presidents "agreed at this point not to speak publicly" about the wall.

"Both presidents acknowledged their clear and very public differences in position on this sensitive issue," the readout said," and agreed to resolve those differences as part of a comprehensive discussion of all aspects of the bilateral relationship."

The White House's readout of the call made no mention of an agreement not to discuss the wall publicly, noting instead that the leaders "have agreed to work these differences out as part of a comprehensive discussion" and "instructed their teams to continue the dialogue to strengthen this important strategic and economic relationship."

The call, which was said to have lasted about an hour, came one day after Pena Nieto announced he had canceled his meeting with Trump scheduled for next week at the White House.

The war of words began early on Thursday, when Trump tweeted: "The U.S. has a 60 billion dollar trade deficit with Mexico. It has been a one-sided deal from the beginning of NAFTA with massive numbers of jobs and companies lost. If Mexico is unwilling to pay for the badly needed wall, then it would be better to cancel the upcoming meeting."

Story continues

Pena Nieto responded with his own tweet: "This morning we have informed the White House that I will not attend the meeting scheduled for next Tuesday with the @POTUS." The Mexican president has repeatedly said Mexico would not pay for a border wall.

Trump hit back early Friday, apparently before he and Pena Nieto spoke by phone.

"Mexico has taken advantage of the U.S. for long enough," the president wrote at 5:19 a.m. ET. "Massive trade deficits & little help on the very weak border must change, NOW!"

NOW WATCH: Here's how President Obama starts every morning





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Friday, January 27, 2017 by: Vicki Batts Tags: California , DUI , police state This article may contain statements that reflect the opinion of the author

(Natural News) Recently, a California District Attorney dropped charges against a man that had been faced with a DUI accusation  even though a drug test only showed evidence of caffeine.

Yes, you read that right: a DUI for driving while taking in some caffeine. Apparently, most of the United States population should be in jail. (RELATED: See more news about completely stupid but true events at Stupid.news)

During 2015, Joseph Schwab was pulled over for erratic driving in Fairfield, California. A statement from the Solano County District Attorneys Office reveals that the responding officer was suspicious due to Schwabs erratic and reckless driving, his demeanor and his performance on a number of field sobriety tests.

Given these concerns, the officer felt justified in slapping Schwab with a DUI  a charge that remained even after a blood sample came back negative for drugs, including cocaine, THC or opiates.

How could someone still be charged with a DUI when testing shows there are no drugs present? Well, according to the DEA, their reasoning is because drug tests dont necessarily detect all drugs, and because the officer involved insisted it seemed like Schwab must have been under the influence of something.

Fortunately for Schwab, this so-called reasoning was entirely unacceptable to his attorney  who even told CNN affiliate KCRA that she couldnt believe the charge.

I actually consulted with the other attorneys in my office to make sure that I wasnt missing something, she commented.

Thirty-eight year old Schwab was left to fight the charge for more than a year.

During the last days of 2016, the DAs office finally announced that they would be dismissing the charges, albeit rather begrudgingly. According to them, their forensic lab experts said that it was highly likely the defendant was under the influence of a drug, even if there was no way for them to prove it.

After further consideration, without a confirmatory test of the specific drug in the defendants system that impaired his ability to drive, we do not believe we can prove the charge beyond a reasonable doubt, bemoans the county press release.

Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, notes that even allowing such a charge to enter the justice system sets a dangerous precedent for the future. Will officers be able to continue whimsically pulling people over at will, and then charge them with DUIs even if drugs are absent from their systems? Its already happened, and its probably only going to get worse. This time, the charges were dropped, but rest assured  they wont be next time. (RELATED: See more news about resisting police state tyranny at RESIST.news)

As Adams notes, the powers that be are far more interested in prosecuting you than they are in protecting your freedom. Youre guilty in the eyes of the law, even if youre innocent. Why? Because they said you were, apparently. And as long as someone with enough power believes it to be true, your own truth will be ignored.

Easily one of the biggest question marks about all of this is that no other evidence has been indicated, outside of the officers testimony. If that is all it takes to charge someone with a crime these days, were in for a world of hurt. When blood testing  which is perhaps the pinnacle of evidence in the justice system  is ignored in favor of testimony, it is time to question who these people are really trying to help.

As Adams notes, Whats the point of blood tests when California bureaucrats have already decided youre guilty even before the test results come back?

Sources:

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) Conservatives, libertarians and truth-seekers of all sorts should be very concerned that Snopes is considered one of the authorities on fact-checking, when their liberal bias shines through almost every single day. Whether it be claiming that leftist agendas are false or proclaiming that there is no proof that conservatives have ever done anything positive, Snopes.com doesnt even appear to be trying to keep their reporting unbiased.

This has never been more obvious than in their recent coverage of John Kerry, the State Department and the charity operated by Kerrys daughter. They just so happened to pick a fight with the wrong group of journalists. In a Snopes.com article trying to disprove the accuracy of the Daily Caller News Foundation Investigative Group, the fact-checkers claim that TheDCNFs reported that taxpayer dollars were sent to help fund the charity in question. Unfortunately for them, there is proof to back up TheDCNFs claims.

Ethan Barton of The Daily Caller reports, Snopes.com writer David Emery criticized TheDCNFs reporting nearly three months later in a Thursday article, but presented no evidence that refuted TheDCNFs findings. The so-called investigator of urban legends, rumors, hoaxes & all manner of codswallop, according to his Twitter bio, also made numerous false statements, starting with the first sentence.

It should come as no surprise that Snopes tried to throw actual journalists at The Daily Caller under the bus in an attempt to make themselves look more reputable and to protect the reputation of the Democratic Party. This is par for the course when it comes to their corruption, but that doesnt mean that it should be accepted by the American people. For a publication to be passing itself off as the be-all and end-all when it comes to fact-checking, only to be the ones spreading false interpretations of the news is morally bankrupt.

This isnt just some run-of-the-mill website, either. Even Facebook is now considering Snopes.com to be the most reputable outlet out there. Theyve gone as far as to team up with them to reduce the fake news epidemic that is supposedly sweeping the internet. The only problem there is that what Snopes.com considers fake news is most certainly not what the average person considers fake news. The likes of CNN and MSNBC have been pushing news stories that are completely false. What Snopes is really trying to do is silence the alternative media that is attempting to inform the people of the world.

That is the problem

Stay informed on the scourge of fake news from the left-wing media at HOAX.news.

Sources:

DailyCaller.com

DailyCaller.com
(Natural News) One strategic and insidious way to cover up deceit and a false narrative is for liars to accuse honest people of lying, thus putting them on their heels so they wont or dont point out the true hypocrisy being committed. Recently, Donald J. Trump called out the lies of not only the Democrats, but mainstream media as well, their favorite propaganda mouthpiece, including CNN (the Clinton News Network), MSNBC, the New York Times, Forbes, and of course, the Washington D.C. ragthe Washington Post, a.k.a. WashPo. Thats what the mainstream media decided to script out, but they failed miserably.

All the major propaganda networks of the Demoncrats decided to run the same regurgitated script that originated at the WashPo rag, saying all independent and alternative news was fake news and that this fake news somehow cost them the election, put lives at risk, and changed the course of history. Thats the whole lie in a nutshell: the fake news calling the real news fake news, and it all backfired.

Here they come: The top 10 REAL fake news stories of 2015 and 2016:

#1. The tap water in Flint, Michigan is perfectly safe to drink, according to the EPA and government officials in Michigan

This one is the story of stolen money used to poison children, when officials of the city of Flint decided to stop purchasing water from Detroit and draw water instead from the heavily contaminated Flint River. Criminal charges were filed by Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette against a total of 13 people and two engineering companies. Lead was among just one of the heavy metal toxins that wounded and killed children, all as a trade-off so bureaucrats could funnel so-called emergency funds to the tune of tens of millions of dollars into building the Karegnondi Water Authority (KWA) pipeline.

High level officials who report directly to the Governor have been indicted, and the EPA knew about the dangers of the contaminated water flowing through lead pipes, but helped cover up the massive tragedy for months. The corrosion lead to one of the USAs largest outbreaks of Legionnaires disease ever, killing at least 12 people so far. (RELATED: See more news about heavy metals in the water at Metals.news)

#2. Global warming is getting worse and could be catastrophic if Americans dont contribute to the cause

Al Gore is one filthy rich man from perpetuating one of the biggest hoaxes of the past couple decadesman made global warming. Since the huge lie has been revealed, the narrative has changed to mostly omit the words global warming and simply use the slogan climate change, especially since the Earth is at the beginning of a long cooling phase, rather than one thats going to burn up everyone any time soon.

The whole racket was started as a business venture to con a few hundred million people into paying taxes for emissions from just about anything that burns fuel. The first major problem with the whole global warming analysis is that the US has been in a slow cooling phase since the 1930s, and NOAA faked the data to make it look like its been getting hotter.

True raw data show no warming over the past century. Even if humans were reckless with natural resources, theres no proof we even have the capability to change our overall atmospheric temperature. Its arrogant science combined with a false narrative invented by millionaires who quickly became billionaires. In fact, 1200 years of data totally discredit the entire global warming, climate change scare and the propaganda.

#3. Zika virus will cause millions of babies to be born with shrunken heads and damaged brains

Long story short: in the late 1940s, Zika virus was discovered in the Zika forest in Uganda, Africa, and cases were documented as early as 1960 in Southeast Asia. Zika is a mild viral infection (like a head cold or mild case of the flu). Most peoples immune system defeats the Zika virus in less than a week and then they are immune to it for life. But not in America or Brazil, apparently.

Suddenly, a year after Bill Gates released his genetically modified mosquitoes, and within two years of a mass dumping of toxic mosquito-killing pesticides in Brazils drinking water, suddenly children were being born with shrunken heads and brain damage. What does the US mass media blame? Zika! Why not? Its time to create another mass panic, another fake vaccine like the Swine Flu vaccine, and make billions off all the hysteria.

Top it all off with the mass spraying of toxic pesticides (naled) over neighborhoods in Miami and what have you got? A mad, mad cycle of humans consuming toxic pesticides, babies born with birth defects (microcephaly), and a mild virus blamed for it allthe same virus with zero history of causing birth defects ever before, in over 50 years of documentation. Talk about fake news. Still, Americas big pharma industry wants to shoot up all our pregnant women with flu shots laced with mercury.

#4. Fukushima nuclear reactors are fine  nothing to worry about (except physics)

On March 11, 2011, an earthquake at sea sent a tsunami onto land that devastated the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant, crashing spent fuel rods to the bottom of a 5-story cooling pool, and enabling radioactive fluid to leak onto the land and into the Pacific Ocean. Since the first day, mass media in the US and Japan have completely downplayed and almost blacked-out coverage of the massive dangers of the radioactive waste and cesium 137 thats infecting animals, humans, and fish across the planet.

Officials from TEPCO in Japan literally told people to get drunk and be happy and that will keep them safe from the radiation. They told their people the water from Fukushima is safe enough to drink, even though people who live near the plant are dying from the radiation, and workers who dare try to repair it suffer the same.

#5. Hillary Clinton is the most fit candidate for POTUS and will challenge the establishment

Independent truth media had a huge role in helping Donald J. Trump win the Presidency of the US. The truth about the Clinton Crime Family, the deep state corruption of the Clinton Foundation, and the insidious tactics of the DNC were all exposed by alternative media and social media, including spreading WikiLeaks and the Veritas videos revealing voter fraud and instigated violence at Trump rallies.

Hitlery Clinton, the Bride of Frankenfood, was also exposed for her dealings with Monsanto, accepting campaign funds, regurgitating their propaganda line for line, and supporting the evil TPP agenda for massive GMO poisoning and mass fracking of planet earth.

#6. Even though the flu shot doesnt work, you should get it anyway, just to be safe because we said so

Loaded with 25 mcg of mercury, the flu shot is easily one of the most dangerous medicines on the planet, pushed every year by the CDC onto everyone, including pregnant women and newborns. Even when the jab contains the wrong strains of combined live influenza viruses, the corrupt CDC says you should get it anyway.

#7. The independent, alternative media is fake news and puts American lives at risk by lying about politics, health, medicine and supplements

For over 100 years, the corrupt AMA, CDC, and FDA have been pushing chemical medicine and discrediting natural medicine, putting Americans health and livelihood at risk. Now, the mass media calls any news that promotes natural medicine and organic food fake news in their attempt to keep the sick care industry raking in billions.

Follow the REAL fake news, by the way, at NewsFakes.com.

#8. Bill Gates and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation are saving lives in Africa by preventing disease with vaccines and ending starvation through GMO food programs

Its all part of a depopulation agenda that Bill Gates admitted himself at a TED convention. Toxic GMOs and carcinogenic, sterilizing vaccines are no kind of philanthropy.

#9. Cancer cells tend to form new cells more quickly than normal cells and this makes them a better target for chemotherapy drugs.

Chemotherapy is a chemical-based toxic cocktail that assaults the entire human body and creates new cancers. 75% of MDs and oncologists refuse it for themselves and their own family members. Chemo has less than a 3% success rate on average. Chemo is quackery.

(RELATED: See more news about cancer industry scams and fraud at CancerScams.com)

#10. Obama says V.A. has made progress on Veterans health care

Have you heard about the secret waiting list, a.ka. the V.A. death panels? For some veterans, the wait for care takes so long they simply die waiting. Problems at VA hospitals are worsening like the plague, and despite talking a good game, Obama has done nothing to change these horrific conditions.

Let us hope our new President can do a better job assisting veterans than our previous one.

Sources :

NaturalNews.com

RealClimateScience.com

TruthWiki.org

PBS.org

TheLede.blogs.nytimes.com

NaturalNews.com

NewsMax.com

NaturalNews.com

TruthWiki.org

Cancer.org

NYTimes.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) Freedom of speech hasnt exactly been appreciated in other parts of the world the way us folks in the United States endorse it, but things have gotten even more absurd. Anastasia Lin, a beauty pageant queen and Miss Canada 2015, has been silenced by the organizers of the Miss World pageant after she criticized the manner in which China has handled her comments regarding their communist nature. (RELATED: See more news about censorship at Censorship.news)

Maura Judkis of The Washington Post reports, Miss Canada has found herself at odds with Miss World organizers, in a conflict stretching back more than a year regarding her advocacy work against human rights abuses in China  historically, a major sponsor and booster of the pageant. Judkis writes that Lin was supposed to represent Canada during the 2015 pageant, but Chinese authorities denied her a visa because of her political activity and support of Falun Gong, the Buddhist-inflected spiritual movement that has been banned by the government since 1999.

It is no surprise that the Chinese government is trying to silence those who are willing to criticize the corruption that takes place behind closed doors. However, it is much more distressing that pageant organizers are willing to bow down to China and prevent Lin from expressing her opinion on the current state of affairs in the country. Especially as someone who has dealt with the negativity of China directly, she should be championed for standing up to the country  not silenced by the idiots on the left who are afraid of causing offense.

This kind of behavior is dangerous and extremely hypocritical. Members of the Regressive Left talk incessantly about giving voices to minorities and oppressed peoples, but when a minority decides to speak out against a value that they hold near and dear to their heart  like communism  they do everything in their power to shut them up.

It goes to show that they only want to support minorities whenever they can exploit them. The second a black, Asian or Hispanic comes out in support of conservative or libertarian ideals, they throw around terms like internalized racism in order to pass their opinions off as unintelligible and bigoted. It is completely ridiculous and should not stand.

Yet, this mindset continues to become more and more common. What has happened to Anastasia Lin is not unheard of  not in the slightest  but that doesnt mean that we have to sit around and let it happen. Its time to join the culture war, folks. Its time to put an end to this before it is too late.

Update: Miss Lin was eventually allowed to speak with reporters after several weeks of tension. She did not lay blame on the pageant organization, and instead acknowledged them for allowing her to come forward. Her primary focus is to bring much needed attention to the persecution of Falun Gong, as well as other human rights abuses in her native country of China.

Sources:

NYTimes.com

WashingtonPost.com

Breitbart.com

NYTimes.com
Saturday, January 28, 2017 by: JD Heyes Tags: Cannabinoids , CBD , DEA , NaturalNews.com , regulations This article may contain statements that reflect the opinion of the author

(Natural News) If youre an American who is tired of big, fat, inefficient government stealing your liberty and freedom, youre thrilled that Donald J. Trump was sworn in as President. Thats because all throughout his campaign (and since), he pledged to cut the federal bureaucracy and curb its power.

Presumably, that also includes the Drug Enforcement Agency and its war on hemp.

As Natural News founder/editor Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, reported in recent days, the DEA just launched the latest salvo in the war against human freedom by quietly adding all cannabinoids (including CBD) to its Schedule I classification of controlled substances, a ruling which went into effect January 13.

Granted, this is not something that is very high on the president-elects list of must-do itemshell have his hands full when he prepares to hit the ground running after being sworn in. But hopefully his pick to run that agency will soon see the fallacy of this cannabinoid decision, especially in light of its proven medical benefits that have been demonstrated through decades of research (and centuries of use).

The language of the DEAs ruling means that, in essence, it has acted completely outside of the scope of the proper legislative apparatusCongressin rescheduling cannabinoids as a controlled substance it now labels as a Marihuana Extract (yes, it is spelled with the h rather than the j). This extract is, according to DEA, any that contain one or more cannabinoids

The sky is NOT fallingyet

But of course, CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, meaning it doesnt produce the high you can get from smoking pot (THC is the substance that produces the psychoactive effect). It is just one in more than 100 cannabinoids that are found in hemp extracts including CBD-A, CBG, CBC, CBN and so forth.

The DEA, in other words, with the stroke of a pen, is attempting to criminalize an entire industry simply because some bureaucrat who has less than a rudimentary knowledge of cannabinoids and hemp thinks it is dangerous. It is not.

In fact, as the Hemp Industry Association noted in a thoughtful response to the DEAs reclassification titled, The Sky is NOT Falling, the new classification is actually not the final word in all this.

The HIA noted that a number of media stories and postings on social media led to some panic among many people who believed that CBD was being banned by the agency.

The sky is NOT falling, HIA said. The Final Rule published by DEA did not change the legal status of CBD. This can only be done by a scheduling action which has NOT occurred.

The organization said it carefully reviewed the ruling with its legal advisors and has also discussed it with experts in the industry. Though there are differing opinions about what the rule could wind up being or meaning in full, there is general agree that [the ruling] did not change the status of CBD.

Importantly, the HIA wants people to know:

 Cannabidiol is not on the federal schedule of controlled substances list;

 Sect. 7606 of the Farm Bill defines hemp as being distinct from marijuana and as such it is not treated as a controlled substance when grown under a compliant state program;

 Despite these facts, the DEA has said that CBD is a controlled substance before;

 HIA said it strongly disagrees with the position taken by the federal drug agency and is ready to take action to defend should DEA take any action to block the production, processing or sale of hemp under Sec. 7606;

 The final rule, which was published Dec. 14, was not a scheduling action but rather was an administrative action that is related to record-keeping.

Grocery store managers as drug dealers?

Adams noted that the new rule could even affect grocery store owners who sell hemp seedswill they now be treated as drug dealers?

He also notes that CWC Labs, where he is the science director, has developed a breakthrough method for accurately measuring levels of cannabinoidseven trace levelsin grocery store hemp seeds.

Using our mass spec analysis, we are able to detect trace quantities of many different cannabinoids in grocery store hemp seeds, commonly used in a vast array of products from hemp milk to hemp protein bars, said Adams. According to the DEA, this means thousands of grocery stores across America will be guilty of felony crimes for distributing drugs beginning January 13, 2017. The insanity of the DEAs new rule is just astonishing.

Stay informed about medical marijuana at Medical Marijuana Update.

Sources:

Trump.news

TheHIA.org

CWCLabs.com

NaturalNews.com
Rising dam waters forced emergency personnel on Saturday to suspend their search for a teenager whose Honda Accord plunged into Alameda Creek on Jan. 21.

Niles Canyon Road in Alameda County was closed till about 4 p.m. as nearly 200 people, including family and friends, scoured the area for 18-year-old Jayda Jenkins. The dam began releasing water making it dangerous for Alameda County crews to continue their search, but nearly 100 other community members stayed in the area longer.

"We want to bring answers and closure to this - whatever that may be," said Tya Modeste. "We want to do whatever we can to bring their daughter home."

Jenkins' car careened off of the notoriously treacherous road last week after she crossed the center divide and collided with another Honda, landing in the creek.

The quickly moving waters of Alameda Creek have hampered the search thus far although Jenkins' clothes were found Monday.

Police pulled Jenkins' vehicle from the water Saturday, but the teen's father, Clarence Jenkins, is holding out hope.

"She always takes this road, pretty much," he said.

But, Jenkins said the curve that his child and other drivers missed is a tricky one.

"There probably should be some sort of concern over getting a guard rail in that area - or some sort of restraint - just so this doesn't happen to anyone else's family," he said.

A black Suzuki also drove into Alameda Creek early Thursday, about a quarter mile west of where Jenkins Honda plunged into the water.

A 27-year-old driver from Patterson was traveling westbound on Niles Canyon when he fell asleep and woke up to find himself crossing the yellow lines. He over corrected, sending his car into the creek, according to the CHP. However, the man was able to escape alive.

Crews pulled the man's car from the creek on Saturday.

A Caltrans study indicates that safety improvements are needed at the curve where both cars wrecked and then fell into the water.

"You can get caught off guard very easily by how sharp the turn is," Clarence Jenkins said. The family plans to pick up where they left off on Sunday.
Another attempt is underway to establish California as a separate nation.

Election officials announced Thursday that a proposal has been submitted to the Secretary of State's Office that would ask voters to repeal part of the state constitution that declares California an inseparable part of the United States.

If the proposal qualifies for the ballot and is approved by voters, it could be a step to a future vote on whether California should break away from the U.S.

Secretary of State Alex Padilla said the group behind the proposal, Yes California Independence Campaign, was cleared to begin attempting to collect nearly 600,000 voter signatures needed to place the plan on the ballot.

Similar attempts to establish California as a nation, or break it into multiple states, have failed.

The election of President Donald Trump in November rekindled talk of California seceding from the union. The proposal makes no mention of Trump, who was trounced by Hillary Clinton in California by more than 4 million votes.

The proposed constitutional amendment, titled California Nationhood, would also ask voters to repeal language that states the U.S. Constitution is the supreme law. If approved, it calls for scheduling a vote in 2019 to ask voters, "Should California become a free, sovereign and independent country?"

Threats to secede from the United States have been a part of American politics almost since the nation was founded. The most serious attempt came before and during the Civil War, when 11 Southern states left to form the Confederacy.

Another hurdle would be the U.S. Constitution, which does not provide for state secession.

The campaign must submit the valid voter signatures by July 25 to qualify for the November 2018 ballot.
Richmond mayor Tom Butt did not mince words when expressing his feelings about President Donald Trump, comparing the commander-in-chief's positions on climate change to "the dark ages."

I was reminded that the times we are going through with Trump are not unlike the Dark Ages, when reclusive monks in remote monasteries copied and preserved ancient Greek and Latin manuscripts until they could be rediscovered in the Renaissance, Butt wrote in an open letter.

The letter describes an experience Butt had as a presenter at the California Climate Change Symposium in Sacramento, hosted by California Natural Resources Agency and CalEPA.

Butt wrote that during the conference, a presenter from the U.S. Geological Survey said that some environmentalists have been working furiously to transfer critical data to the private sector, so that it would continue to be accessible to the public.

The scientific community and the political leaders of California are the modern monks who are guarding that flame that will be needed to reignite civilization once Trump leaves office, Butt concluded.

Earlier this week, the Trump administration issued gag orders to staffers at the Environmental Protection Agency, triggering outrage across the country. The move also caused a maelstrom on Twitter that resulted in accounts linked to the National Park Service going rogue and tweeting out climate facts, much to the delight of the Twitterverse  and, reportedly, the consternation of Trump.

Whats more, the Trump administration announced that political staffers would be reviewing the EPAs scientific findings before releasing them to the public, leading many to worry that facts that dont jive with the administrations climate policies will be scrubbed.

We'll take a look at what's happening so that the voice coming from the EPA is one that's going to reflect the new administration, Doug Erickson, head of communications for Trumps EPA transition team, told NPR Tuesday.

Butt also disavowed Trumps executive actions on immigration, which threaten to pull funding from sanctuary cities like Richmond. There is debate about whether removing funding would be legal, and the mayor has previously vowed to protect the citys immigrant population.

Every day, the Trump administration becomes more incredibly unbelievable, Butt wrote.

With his recent comments, Butt joins the ranks of other Bay Area leaders who have spoken out against Trump, including Berkeley Mayor Jesse Arreguin, San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee, San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo and Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf. State leaders, including Gov. Jerry Brown and Sen. Kamala Harris, have also expressed their disapproval.
Chris Columbus is one of those movie people you could interview for hours, weeks  months even. Theres so much you want to know about his movies  that scene in Home Alone, that weird cameo in Mrs. Doubtfire, that little plot twist in Harry Potter, the list is endless. His is the name that would show up in the closing credits of your favorite childhood movie that would make you go: Who is this guy who makes these amazing magical movies? I wish I could meet him one day.

We had the fortune to meet the acclaimed writer-director at his office in San Franciscos Financial District for an interview for "Bay Area Revelations: The Movies," a documentary focusing on the Bay Area's impact on the movie industry. The show airs Sunday at 7 p.m. on NBC Bay Area.

Our Q&A quickly jumped to Donald Trump.

Specifically, how our new president came to be in his movie, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, in 1992 with Macaulay Culkin, who is stuck in the Big Apple with the Sticky Bandits and cons his way into getting a room at the Plaza Hotel, which was then owned by Trump. Trump sold the hotel in 1995 for $325 million. [[412001445, C]]

Columbus recalls the scene with a smile:

We were shooting Home Alone 2 at the Plaza Hotel in New York, and we needed it as a location, because a significant part of Home Alone 2 took place at the Plaza Hotel."

There was one caveat.

"And the only way we were allowed to shoot at the Plaza Hotel was if Donald Trump  who owned the Plaza  could have a cameo in the movie," Columbus said. "So I wrestled with that for a long time, and finally I said, Okay, he can have a cameo, because we couldnt move into another hotel."

How could Columbus resist?

"The Plaza was iconic," he said. "So we worked for a couple of hours with Donald Trump. He came in, he did his line, and the rest is history.

And as for what it was like to work with Trump, Columbus said, there wasn't much to it.

He had one line, Down the hall to the left, I think thats all he had to say. Macaulay asked him for directions, and then Trump gives him the direction, and I think he did the line three or four times and that was it.

After our Trump queries were satisfied, we talked to Columbus about everything from Robin Williams (who starred in Columbuss Mrs. Doubtfire) to whether he thought the Bay Area was anti-Hollywood (His answer: It's the brainchild of Hollywood, if anything.)

Q: Your fondest memory of Robin Williams

A: Just getting the opportunity to work with him every day. The fondest memories were the days we got to work together. There will never be anything like it again.[[411997156, C]]

Q: How is shooting in San Francisco different from shooting in L.A.?

A: I have not shot in L.A. a lot. Shooting in San Francisco is a tremendous amount of fun, because visually its beautiful here, and there are so many places to shoot in San Francisco.

Q: How has social media changed the movie industry?

A: Social media has changed movies because anyone now can have an opinion about movies  thats both good and bad. With something like Rotten Tomatoes you cant really trust the reviews, because there are so many inferior film critics mixed in with real film critics, people who have actual knowledge of cinema history, that its very difficult to tell, whats real, whats not real. And then there are blogs, and everyone has an opinion, so you can get inundated with maybe too much information.[[411997836, C]]

Q: Are you a big user of social media?

A: I use Instagram. Thats about it. I have a Facebook account, which Im never on. I like Instagram, because its a snapshot of something you did that day.

Q: Your favorite Harry Potter movie?

A: "Probably the first three I was involved with. ("Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone," "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets," "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.")
Attorneys for the four suspects charged in a brutal attack streamed live on Facebook said after court Friday they want the group released from jail.

The public defenders held a news conference after the Friday hearing saying they want their clients released because they "are young people who do not deserve to be there."

The attorneys argued the group should not be tried in the media and noted that in the days following their arrests, they have seen death threats spread across the Internet.

In court Friday, a judge ordered that sketches of the suspects not show their faces. State prosecutors agreed to proceed with an indictment while attorneys for the four asked that 911 tapes be preserved.

The group is expected to appear in court again Feb. 10.

Sisters Tanishia and Brittany Covington, Jordan Hill and Tesfaye Cooper face hate crime charges, as well as kidnapping and battery after Cook County prosecutors identified them as four black suspects seen in a racially charged attack on a white teenager that was broadcast live on social media.

Prosecutors say the group kidnapped and tortured a suburban 18-year old who has mental disabilities in the video, now seen by millions.

A Cook County judge ruled because of safety and security concerns, cameras will not be allowed in the courtroom.

Lawyers for the defendants didn't want them shown because they say it could contaminate the jury pool.
An Iraqi refugee who worked for the U.S. government in his home country for more than a decade was released from detention Saturday afternoon after being held at John F. Kennedy International Airport for about 18 hours.

Hameed Jhalid Darweesh was one of two Iraqi citizens who were on flights when President Trump signed an executive order that temporarily closes U.S. borders to refugees.

Upon release, he was greeted at the airport by supporters who are critical of Trump's executive order. The group of demonstrators carried signs and chanted to call for the release of the two men.

"This is the soul of America," a gracious Darweesh said of the supporters. "Thank you very much. We know America is the land of freedom, the land of freedom, the land of light. I am very thankful and very happy."

The two men were detained at Kennedy Airport when their separate flights landed, the New York Times reported.

Ten other travelers are also being held at the airport, Congressman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) said. It was not immediately clear what countries they came from.

With - now released - Iraqi Refugee blocked by Trumps order at JFK. Working w/@NydiaVelazquez to help 11 more refugees still being held. pic.twitter.com/8HF7jmBdvQ  (((Rep. Nadler))) (@RepJerryNadler) January 28, 2017

Lawyers for the two Iraqi refugees filed motions in the Eastern District of New York, seeking a write of habeas corpus in an effort to get their clients released, NBC News reported.

Trump's executive order barred all refugees from entering the United States for four months, and indefinitely halted any from Syria. Trump argued the ban is needed to keep out "radical Islamic terrorists."

The order Friday immediately suspended a program that last year resettled in the U.S. roughly 85,000 people displaced by war, political oppression, hunger and religious prejudice. Trump indefinitely blocked those fleeing Syria, where a civil war has raged, and imposed a 90-day ban on all immigration to the U.S. from seven Muslim majority nations, citing terrorism concerns.

The U.S. may admit refugees on a case-by-case basis during the freeze, and the government will continue to process requests from people claiming religious persecution, "provided that the religion of the individual is a minority religion in the individual's country."

Both Darweesh and the other refugee detained at JFK have ties to the U.S., according to the Times' report.

Darweesh worked with the U.S. in Iraq in a number of roles, including as an interpreter for the U.S. army. He had been targeted twice for working with the U.S. military, according to the report.

The wife of the other detained man worked for a U.S. contractor, the Times reported.

Meanwhile, two Syrian families who arrived at Philadelphia International Airport Saturday morning from Doha, Qatar, were briefly detained and then sent back on another 18-hour flight, according to a family member from Allentown, Pennsylvania.

The families, made of up two brothers, their wives and two children, were detained by Customs and Border Protection officials after disembarking a Qatar Airways flight at 7:25 a.m., according to Joseph Assali, of Allentown.

Three hours later, the six were put back on a Qatar Airways flight back to Doha, Assali said.

Cairo airport officials also said seven migrants bound for the U.S. were prevented from boarding an EgyptAir flight to New York's JFK airport. Six of them are from Iraq and one from Yemen.

The officials say the migrants, escorted by officials from the U.N. refugee agency, were stopped from boarding the plane after authorities at Cairo airport contacted their counterparts in JFK airport.

In response to the executive order, Iran's foreign ministry suggested the country will limit issuing visas to American tourists.

The official IRNA news agency Sunday carried a statement by the Iranian foreign ministry that says Iran will resort to "counteraction" to Trump's executive order.

The statement says: "Iran, to defend the dignity of the great Iranian nation, will implement the principle of reciprocity until the removal of the insulting restriction against Iranian nationals."

The statement adds: "It will apply corresponding legal, consular and political actions."
What to Know New Jersey is the first state where parents can get a free "baby box" when they complete an online course

Baby boxes include diapers, wipes, a box for the baby to sleep in and other must-haves for new parents

The boxes have been credited with preventing SIDS and dropping infant mortality rates

New Jersey has become the first state where expectant parents can get a free "Baby Box" for their newborn.

The Baby Box Co. announced the Baby Box University program on Thursday. The global integrated program looks to reduce Sudden Unexpected Infant Death Syndrome (SUIDS) and provide a safe start for newborns in the state by providing their parents with potentially life-saving boxes.

The boxes, which are made from a durable cardboard, can be used as a baby's bed for the first months of life. Inside, the box contains diapers, wipes, and other goodies that are worth about $150.

Expectant parents in New Jersey just need to complete a short parenting education course online to get their free baby box.

The Baby

The New Jersey Child Fatality and Near Fatality Review Board (CFNFRB) is supporting the program using a grant from the CDC, which reviews fatalities and near-fatalities of children in order to identify their causes, relationship to governmental support systems, and methods of prevention.

The program will distribute approximately 105,000 Baby Boxes in 2017, according to Baby Box Co.

The use of baby boxes has been credited with helping Finland achieve one of the worlds lowest infant mortality rates.

"I'm grateful to the Child Fatality and Near Fatality Review Board for their efforts to promote infant safe sleep," said Commissioner Allison Blake of the New Jersey Department of Children and Families. "Through greater awareness and education, and by working together, we can make sleep time safe time for babies."

"Every year we review instances in which infants die suddenly and unexpectedly," said CFNFRB chair Kathryn McCans.

"In a significant proportion of these deaths, an unsafe sleep circumstance is a contributing factor. Baby Box University will help families make safe and healthy choices for their children by educating them about simple changes that will decrease the risk that a death will occur due to an unsafe sleep environment or SIDS."

The use of Baby Boxes has been credited with helping Finland achieve one of the world's lowest infant mortality rates. The initiative is credited with helping to decrease Finland's infant mortality rate from 65 deaths for each 1,000 children born in 1938 to 1.3 deaths per 1,000 births in 2013, according to the World Health Organization.

Parents can pick up their baby boxes at Cooper University Healthcare, Southern New Jersey Perinatal Cooperative and other locations. They can also have them delivered to their home.

Heres how New Jersey parents can get a free baby box:

1. Register for free online at babyboxuniversity.com as a New Jersey resident. Be sure to include your correct contact information, including mailing address.

2. Watch the 10-15 minute New Jersey syllabus at babyboxuniversity.com. After taking a short quiz, you will receive a certificate of completion and be able to select local pick-up or direct delivery of your Baby Box.

3. If you select direct delivery, your Baby Box will ship to the address you provided when you registered on Baby Box University. If you select local pick up, bring your Baby Box University certificate to the closest participating distribution partner to collect your Baby Box.
NBC News will celebrate the 50th anniversary of its acclaimed newsman Tom Brokaw with a prime time special Sunday. But first, the veteran anchor appeared on The Tonight Show Friday to talk about what he has learned from spending five decades behind the camera and at the forefront of history.

Host Jimmy Fallon wasted no time getting Browaws take on how America is doing in this first week of Donald Trumps presidency, which has already brought major changes to the country with polarizing executive orders and off-the-cuff Twitter commentary.

I think it depends on your point of view, Brokaw noted. This is what he was elected to do, everyone has to remember that. He has extended his campaign  it connects him to that core group that voted for him. Go to Washington, drain the swamp and return the power to the people. Thats what hes determined to do.

Brokaw, who Fallon called one of the most respected journalists, suggested that Americans need to remember the challenges that come with leading a nation, whether the president is a Republican or a Democrat.

Being in the White House is a lot harder than most people realize, he said. There are a lot of things to deal with.

For Trump, those things now include a proposed 20 percent tax on Mexican imports to pay for a southern border wall. Brokaw called the resulting conflict from that proposal a full-blown economic war. And he thinks Mexico, being one of Americas biggest trading partners, has a leg up in the fight. Theyve got some ammo.

Brokaw called Trump's presidency so far "fascinating." And with the political standoffs that have developed in the last week, journalists are faced with the responsibility to report all of the facts objectively, to stay cool, Brokaw said. Theyve declared war on us  We have to do our job, not get in some ideological war.

Brokaw's journalistic advice comes from a career that began on NBC News in 1966, a time Fallon described as a "bygone era where the news people watched was actually true." A joke it may have been, but the juxtaposition it illustrated calls attention to the fact that Brokaw now reports in a much different era for the media, one filled with "alternative facts."

When asked about the "fake news" situation, Brokaw called it "very troubling." He attributed it to the rise of social media and the bombardment of "sophisticated" information.

"We don't know where [the information] comes from," Brokaw continued. "There are people out there who are spinning stories. They're trying to get you to believe what they're saying." Brokaw made sure to clarify this happens "on the right, but also on the left."

"My advice to consumers: Look at something and apply the same test to it that you would to a flat screen television. Am I gonna buy that one, or this one or that one? See what you can trust after a while.

There's a lot of effort going on now, coming in from God knows where, to try to, in effect, really become a saboteur of the truth," Brokaw added. "And that's troubling in a free society."

Brokaw, now 76, is no stranger to big stories like the ones being reported today; he's covered some of the worlds most crucial turning points: the Watergate scandal, the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the fall of the Berlin Wall and the tragedy that was 9/11.

Through it all, he said, he has learned that the world is constantly in motion.

Its very exciting to watch, Brokaw said.

[NATL] Top News Photos: Pope Visits Japan, and More

What about our country? Fallon asked hesitantly. Are we going to be OK?

After a laugh, Brokaw eased the tension confidently. Were a very strong country, he said. The biggest challenge of the country is: How do we get everybody back together?

His suggestion? Listen to both sides and say, 'How do we find common ground?' I wish wed see more of that.

Heres to common ground, Fallon replied.
Warning: Video footage in this story contains profanity.

A Chicago police officer has been suspended for five days after throwing a cup of coffee at a motorcyclist on the city's Near North Side.

Officer Robert Markvart accepted the suspension, authorities said Saturday, following an investigation after video of the incident was posted to YouTube and Facebook on Jan. 22.

The incident occurred near the intersection of Hubbard and State Streets on Jan. 20, according to police. The video, captured via a GoPro-style camera atop a helmet, shows several motorcyclists traveling eastbound on Hubbard St. The rider at the front pops a wheelie, as around a dozen more motorcyclists follow behind.

As the group approaches the intersection, the rider wearing the camera lifts his left hand and exchanges indiscernible words with a uniformed Chicago police officer standing in the street. The officer then tosses a disposable cup of coffee at the rider, appearing to strike him in some fashion, as liquid begins to run down the camera lens.

"I got you on camera, bro!" the rider exclaims in the video, before uttering several expletives as the group turns south on State St. The video garnered nearly more than 46,000 views on YouTube by Saturday, and more than 115,000 views on the Chicago United Riders Facebook page where it was shared more than 800 times.

"We are aware of the video you are referencing," Chicago police said Monday via email. "An investigation has begun to determine the authenticity of the video, as well as identity of the officer involved, if authenticated."

"I was shown that video a little while ago, and Ill tell you  theres nothing I can say to defend actions like that," Chicago police Supt. Eddie Johnson said when asked about the incident at a news conference Monday. "We expect every officer to be professional, treat people fairly and responsibly."

"When it comes down to it, that officer will be held accountable and be disciplined appropriately," he added.

Officer Markvart is an 18-year veteran of the force, according to police, who declined to release any further information on the suspension, including if it was with or without pay.
Crime fighting in Chicago just got smarter thanks to new technology and old-fashioned data.

Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson announced Friday the latest piece of Chicagos smart-policing strategy, which includes new predictive technology and analytical tools to support police in preventing, combating and responding to violent crime in the citys south and west sides.

Using state-of-the-art technology, our police department can better predict where officers should be deployed and better fight gun violence, said Emanuel.

Station-based Strategic Decision Support Centers are now operating in the 7th (Englewood) and 11th (Harrison) police districts, which are responsible for over a third of the citys increase in homicides for 2016. Officers and analysts will integrate historical crime data, input from district-wide SpotShotter gunshot detection systems, POD crime cameras and mobile phone technology to reduce violence.

Officers have also been provided smart phones with special software to receive real time updates.

This technology will allow them to have access to a wide variety of information at their fingertips and significantly cut down response times to shooting incidents, which can make the difference between life and death and can increase our chances of apprehending the offender, Johnson said.

Predictive policing has achieved success in other cities. NBC 5 Investigates explained in 2013 how police in Los Angeles utilized a system called PredPol to reduce targeted crimes by 12 percent.
A Palatine bar that planned to offer a Build-A-Wall burger adorned with Mexican condiments has walked back on the special after receiving criticism from some saying it was offensivethough not everyone agrees.

A Facebook post on Durty Nellies Facebook page shows a kitten with the words I am sorry!!! I am sorry!!! I am very sorry!!!

Durty Nellies is extremely sorry for posting something that was so upsetting to so many people, the establishment says in the post. It was our lame attempt at humor and an attempt to put a little levity in such trying times that severely backfired. It was not the intent of Durty Nellie's to offend anyone or show any malice. Durty Nellie's prides itself on a fun atmosphere and we took it a little too far. We will not be supporting such behavior and will leave all attempts at comedy to the professionals in the future.

A screengrab of the original offer, which was deleted, three silhouettes depicting President Donald trump filled with brick walls. Stack as many 40 oz. Angus patties as you want between a brioche bun, it reads. The ingredients were to include homemade mole, tortilla strips, Chihuahua cheese, pico de gallo, guacamole and jalapeno peppers.

The comments section of the apology post are filled with opposing views and political rhetoric.

Offensive or otherwise, the comments section of this post validates why you should avoid linking your brand with anything political/ideological, one Facebook user said. If your business is selling food and drink why alienate anyone?

Some commenters defended the restaurant, saying the backlash was an overreaction.

Just because someone can't handle your clever marketing skills and gets easily offended over building a wall than perhaps they need to toughen up to the facts.

The original post was removed Friday, just two days after it was originally posted, according to the Chicago Tribune.

Owner Mark Dolezal told the newspaper he was out for a few days and learned about the burger after it had been advertised.

He told the newspaper the chef who came up with the idea and businesses marketing staff agreed that it would be a funny offer.

"Obviously, it wasn't," he told the Tribune. "We are sorry."

Trump has said he is taking steps toward building a U.S.-Mexico border wall.

"Beginning today the United States of America gets back control of its borders," Trump said during a recent visit to the Department of Homeland Security. "We are going to save lives on both sides of the border."

Trump has said that Mexico will pay for the wall.
An off-duty Cook County sheriffs officer working security at a Gold Coast bar was among three men shot in a fight near a parking garage early Saturday on the Near North Side.

The shooting happened about 3:30 a.m. on State Street just north of Division, according to Chicago Police. It stemmed from a dispute over payment, a police source told the Chicago Sun-Times.

A 39-year-old man grazed in the head was taken to Northwestern Memorial Hospital along with a 33-year-old man shot in the leg, and a 30-year-old man shot in the back was taken to Illinois Masonic Medical Center. Fire officials said they all were in serious condition, but police said they had stabilized by mid-morning.

One of the victims is a courts deputy who was off duty, Cook County sheriffs office spokeswoman Sophia Ansari said in an email. [[412040713, C]]

Two men in handcuffs were escorted into separate CPD squad cars at the scene. Police said a person of interest was being questioned.

A few dozen glassy-eyed revelers gawked from the sidewalk at the sea of emergency lights that came at the tail end of a night on the busy strip of bars and clubs.

A cabdriver who declined to give his name said he was driving north on State and making a left turn onto Division, when he heard four gunshots and saw a police officer get out of an SUV at the intersection, heading toward the commotion with his gun drawn.

After that, blue lights everywhere, the cabdriver said of the police response.

He said it was the second shooting he had happened upon while driving early Saturday, after witnessing a fatal attack at a Goose Island gas station a mile away less than two hours earlier.

You cant get away from these shootings, he said.
A man was found shot to death Friday night in front of a school in west suburban Naperville, police said.

Officers responded to a report of an unresponsive person inside a vehicle about 7:30 p.m. in a parking lot at Scullen Middle School, 2815 Mistflower Lane, according to Naperville police.

They found a 37-year-old man from Oswego inside the vehicle with the windows broken out, police said. He was taken to Edward Hospital in Naperville, where he was pronounced dead from apparent gunshot wounds.

Police said the incident does not involve Scullen Middle School. On Friday night, there were two non-district organizations which had rented space in the building for activities and an after-school club meeting.

The incident does not appear to be random and there is no threat to the community, police said. Naperville police were conducting a homicide investigation.

The DuPage County coroners office could not immediately confirm the manner of death.
Noted anti-violence activist Rev. Michael Pfleger invited President Donald Trump Friday to hear residents concerns about city violence at his church on the citys South Side.

Trump tweeted Tuesday that he would send in the feds if Chicago could not find a solution to its carnage in 2017.

President Trump, since you say youre concernedI INVITE YOU TO ST. SABINA TO SIT DOWN WITH THE COMMUNITY AND LISTEN TO OUR CONCERNS ABOUT THE VIOLENCE AND WHATS NEEDED. Pfleger said in a Facebook post.

Pfleger also touched on the Trump administrations contentious relationship with the press, saying that Trump and his cabinet are trying to control our thinking and the American conversation through tweets and pure lies..NO ITS NOT ALTERNATIVE FACTSITS LIES.lets not take the baitrather lets call a lie a lie and demand Truth.

Pfleger also responded to Trumps tweet about Chicago violence and sending in the Feds Tuesday.

"If it's federal resources, dont wait SEND THEM NOW! Pfleger wrote. If hes talking about federal troops, stop-and-frisk and militarized police, which I believe he is ABSOLUTELY NOT!

He added that all Chicago officials, police, business leaders, churches and communities need to stop this or expect soldiers on our streets.

Pfleger will speak at Howard University on Sunday and say he will make another announcement about inviting Trump St. Sabina then as well as sending a letter on Monday.
WASHINGTON, Jan 28 (Reuters) - President Donald Trump told Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Saturday that the United States is committed to ensuring Japan's security, the White House said in a statement.

"President Trump affirmed the ironclad U.S. commitment to ensuring the security of Japan," the White House said, noting the leaders discussed U.S. Defense Secretary James Mattis' scheduled trip to Japan and North Korea's nuclear threat.

"The two leaders also committed to deepen the bilateral trade and investment relationship," the White House said.

(Reporting by Roberta Rampton and Lesley Wroughton; Editing by Grant McCool)
Officials across the country are warning consumers about a possible new scam dubbed the "Can you hear me" scam involving fraudsters tricking consumers into saying a single word over the phone, according to the national Better Business Bureau.

The single word you utter back could potentially lead to fraudulent charges.

It starts with an unsolicited phone call during which the caller claims to represent a business or agency.

The caller then claims to have a bad connection and asks, "Can you hear me now?" or simply "Can you hear me?"

If the consumer says "yes," the scammer records the answer and misuses it as the victim authorizing unwanted charges for products and services.

When the consumer tries to dispute the charge, the audio recording is reportedly used to argue that the consumed agreed to the charge.

The BBB first warned consumers about the scam back in October 2016, but local police departments and officials around the country have been sharing news of the scam this week. The BBB says recent callers have pretended to be working with cruise lines, home security companies, or have associations with social security.

Its unclear how common or widespread this scam could be but either way, officials say its a good opportunity to practice some phone safety tips.

The Wisconsin Better Business bureau chapter shared the warning on its social media account.

The West Virginia Attorney General's Office issued an alert on Jan. 27. The office says scammers originally collect the consumer's personal information through a data breach or some other scam.

W.Va. AG Alerts Consumers to Can You Hear Me Now Scam https://t.co/yRwfsshWd6  WV Attorney General (@WestVirginiaAG) January 27, 2017

Officials urge people to be on guard. The West Virginia Attorney General's office says the best advice is to simply hang up the phone if they are asked this question. Do not give an affirmative answer, such as "yes" when asked that question. Make sure you are checking your credit card statements and bank accounts to be sure there are no fradulent charges. If you see a charge you don't recognize, dispute it immediately with your financial institution.

While the scam is reportedly circulating throughout the country, there are no known victims in Connecticut.

Police departments across New England were sharing news of the possible fradulent calls. Boston University police warned its social media followers about the potential scam on the department's Twitter page. Police departments in Tewksbury, Arlington, and Douglas, Mass. all shared the warning on social media.

The Better Business Bureau recommends you sign up for the National Do Not Call Registry and report any suspicious activity to the BBB Scam Tracker system.
Questions have swirled for years about the cause of a fire on Christmas Day in Stamford in 2011 that killed three children and their grandparents. Newly released court documents of depositions in a civil suit filed by Matthew Badger, the childrens father, call into question whether the house was demolished too soon.

Nine-year-old Lilly Badger, 7-year-old twins Grace and Sarah, and their grandparents, Lomer and Pauline Johnson, were killed in the fire at the Shippan Avenue home, which was under renovation.

The girls mother, Madonna Badger, and Madonnas former boyfriend, Michael Borcina -- the main contractor who was working on the home  were the only two survivors.

The city of Stamford stands by its determination that hot fireplace ashes left in the mudroom of the home caused the blaze, but Madonna Badger and Borcina say the fire was electrical.

Now, the recently filed lawsuit depositions reveal new information that could support that.

I mean it's so obvious that it started in the basement and that it was an electrical fire, Madonna Badger said in an exclusive interview with NBC Connecticut in February 2016. I want to really understand what happened in that house and what really caused that fire and, you know, I want to know. I want to know the truth.

Borcina insists he felt the ashes and they were cool, contradicting the citys theory that fireplace ashes in the mudroom sparked the fire. In his deposition, he says he saw shooting sparks  about 20, 30 feet coming from the back of the home.

In Stamford Chief Fire Marshal Barry Callahans deposition, he was asked if he agreed it was a mistake for the City of Stamford to cart off and destroy the evidence related to the fire. Callahan said, It shouldnt have been carted off until it was available, referring that availability to Madonna and Matthew Badger and others. Callahan agreed it was a spoliation of evidence.

A second fire marshal admitted in his deposition that other examinations may have brought a different result  referring to the cause of the fire.

Matthew Badgers attorney, Jon Whitcomb, said in a statement to NBC Connecticut, which reads in part:

It takes colossal nerve for the city to attempt to dismiss this case when it knew of the construction project, permitted it, failed to shut it down, knew the Badgers were living there, and then after the fire, when the city knew it was responsible for the deaths of the little girls, conspired to conceal its responsibility, and destroyed the main evidence in this case the Badger house and its contents.

He furthermore states: It certainly begs the question as to what the city was trying to hide.

NBC Connecticut reached out to the city of Stamford. City spokesperson, Elizabeth Carlson, said in the city does not comment on pending litigation.

NBC Connecticut also reached out to Madonna Badger and attorneys for Michael Borcina, but did not immediately hear back.

Borcina settled his part of the civil suit with Matthew Badger. The case against the city moves forward. Jury selection could begin in April.
Syrian refugees, undocumented immigrants, and elected officials made their sentiments clear when it comes to the executive actions made by President Donald Trump in his first full week in office.

They don't like it and they are going to fight back.

On the issues of crackdowns on sanctuary cities, the ban of immigrants and refugees from some Arab nations, and the possible removal of protections from people who came to America as children but haven't reached citizenship, they were all represented at the State Capitol.

The process for coming here took about eight months and we went through six interviews," said Maher Al-Kalaf through an interpreter. "Each one was about four hours, so it was a kind of tiring process coming here.

Maher came to the United States with his wife and six children, after escaping from Syria during its Civil War.

Supporters of his family said Connecticut needs to remain a haven for families and keep welcoming them. Maher said he was just looking for a better life.

The main reason for coming here is to find peace, security, and education for the kids," he said.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal described Trump's executive orders as being, "contrary to American values and American constitutional law."

On his order condemning what are known as , "sanctuary cities," Hartford Mayor Luke Bronin said the city hasn't violated any federal laws, but said police will not work to detain undocumented immigrants just because they reside in Hartford.

He said, "We will not be bullied into enforcing policies that are unconstitutional or will make us less safe."

One counter protester, who wouldn't give his full name, held up a sign across from where Trump protesters were in Hartford. He said when he heard about the rally, he thought it was important to make sure that people knew not everyone in Connecticut was against Trump's orders.

Kevin said, I dont believe that we should be able to choose that we can enforce some laws but not others.

Eric Cruz Lopez says he's trying to live the American dream. Born in Mexico, he made his way to America when he was seven years old with his mother. He says he hoped Connecticut lawmakers continue to stand up to Trump, to allow him and his family to remain in Bridgeport.

I want to know that my community is going to be safe. I want to know that Im going to be safe and I dont just care for undocumented immigrants. I care for the rest of my communities in Connecticut and across this country.
Rhode Island towns are the latest to speak out against a proposed Amtrak route that would connect Old Saybrook to Rhode Island and shorten the train trip between Washington, D.C. and Boston by about 30 minutes.

But that also means cutting through shoreline towns.

Old Lyme is making sure federal railroad regulators know they're not on-board with the plan.

"Whether the line goes up 500 feet or goes up a quarter-mile, you're going to be impacting significant things, said Sam Gold, executive director of the Lower Connecticut River Velley Council of Governments.

Gold said hes concerned the possible new rail would destroy the environmental and cultural heritage of the town. Especially since there isnt a definitive plan on exactly where that rail line would be.

Getty Images

But now with Rhode Island residents openly opposing the plan at the State House, "we have other allies in this fight, he said.

Old Lyme's First Selectwoman Bonnie Reemsnyder said in this battle, they're on the offensive.

"We've encouraged people to comment on this. In fact we've actually put together postcards, Reemsnyder said, adding that she's encouraging those who live in town to mail or email their comments to the Federal Railroad Administration about environmental, tourism, historical preservation and economic concerns. The towns Board of Selectmen is also sending in a letter.

The Florence Griswold Museum sits just off of I-95 and could be affected by rail plans. It's also a National Historic Landmark.

"We are concerned that it could be literally through eminent domain, or they're talking about a tunnel that would go under the Connecticut River, under Old Lyme, and it could be right through our property, said Jeff Andersen, the Florence Griswold Museums director.

Both Andersen and Gold said they dont opposed the idea of a high-speed rail. But they dont want to see it destroy the natural, historic and cultural attributes the town wants to preserve.

Old Lyme residents also have strong opinions about the potential track.

We're all really very disturbed. This is a beautiful community, Ann Primo said.

I think the way the plan is right now, it would definitely be very disruptive and destroy a lot of the elements of the town, said Ramzi Dagher.
A 25-year-old man was shot outside of a convenience store on Main Street in East Hartford after accidentally bumping into the shooter inside the store, according to the victim's cousin.

Police said the shooting took place just after 2:30 a.m. Saturday outside of Krauszers Food Store and the victim was rushed to Hartford Hospital.

The victim was identified Greg Beaufort of East Hartford. He underwent surgery and is currently in stable condition, police said Monday.

NBC Connecticut spoke to the Beaufort's cousin, who said the victim accidentally bumped into the suspect inside the store and the suspect became angry and told Beaufort to go outside, then opened fire, shooting Beaufort four times.

Sky Patel, the owner of the store, told NBC Connecticut the store has been open for 10 years and nothing like this has ever happened before.

Because the store is open 24 hours, it usually attracts large crowds when the bars close and the store was crowded when the shooting happened, Patel said.

Police said that no store employees were involved with the incident and the investigation is ongoing.

Anyone who witnessed this shooting or has any information related to the incident is asked to contact the East Hartford Police Department.
Police have arrested a second suspect linked to the stabbing and killing a Sterling teen who went missing last month.

Dustin Warren, 18, of Sterling, was arrested Friday and charged with tampering with evidence, hindering prosecution and interfering with a police officer.

The other suspect, Kevin Weismore, 19, was previously arrested and charged with the murder of 18-year-old Todd Jeremiah, or TJ, Allen. The arrest warrant said Weismore told police that he planned on selling marijuana to Allen and stabbed him after Allen pulled out a gun.

Police said they have not found a gun and Allen's mother, Christina Moses, said she doesn't believe her son ever owned one.

Allen had been reported missing just after 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 26 when he did not return home after leaving home to go dirt biking. Earlier this month, state police said they found Allen's body not far from Weismore's home.

Police obtained a search warrant for Allen's phone and records showed the last known location was in the area of Laiho Road, Margaret Henry Road and Sawmill Hill Road in Sterling, according to the arrest warrant.

Weismore went on to tell police that he met up with Allen to sell marijuana to him, but Allen took a gun from his backpack, pointed it at the ground, said he did not have the money, then pointed the gun at him, according to the arrest warrant.

According to police, Weismore gave detectives information that led them to Allen's body in a wooded area near 61 Laiho Road.

I knifed TJ, stabbing him in the stomach once using my right hand, and then stabbing him in the neck a few times. I stabbed him in the neck once and he kept moving so I did it a couple more times, Weismores statement to police reads, according to the warrant.

The statement goes on to say that Weismore dragged Allens body behind a rock pile to hide it, then threw the gun off a cliff. Weismore also said he burned all his clothing, according to police.

The warrant said Weismore admitted to a friend what hed done the next day and that friend helped him dump Allens dirt bike into a pond in Killingly.

Warren's bond was set at $125,000 and he is due in court today.
As tax season gets underway, the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS) and the Internal Revenue Service are once again warning about the W-2 scam.

According to the DRS, this email scam first appeared last year. It uses a corporate officer's name to request employee Forms W-2 from company payroll or human resources departments.

It can appear to come from where you work. It can look very real. It is very easy to do that and these are smart thieves by in large, said Department of Revenue Services Commissioner Kevin Sullivan.

Thinking it is a legitimate request, payroll and human resource officials have been tricked into sending employee names, social security numbers and income information.

That material that information was then used to create corporate tax returns and steal from these particular companies, said Sullivan.

This is not the only way people are being fooled before they file. On Friday, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro, D-Third District, discussed the spike in IRS phone scams during tax season. She says her office has received numerous constituent complaints about these calls.

They dig up just enough information to sound legit, DeLauro said.

Manu Malhotra of Hartford says he has received that call many times. He says he has always handled the situation appropriately, but knows how convincing they can be.

I get a lot of calls fake calls saying Im calling for the IRS, saying you have taxes pending so you dont pay your taxes in next 10 to 15 minutes over the call, police will come to your home and arrest you, said Malhotra.

Congresswoman DeLauro promised to keep educating the public, but said everyone should be aware the IRS communicates by mail, not phone calls.

A real IRS agent would never ask for your credit card info over the phone, nor would they threaten you with arrest or discipline, DeLauro said.

In regards to the W-2 scam Sullivan says it never hurts to double check.

The boss wont be mad, the head of payroll wont be mad if you say I would like to get you that information but let me just confirm with the person that ordered it, said Sullivan.

He also recommends people contract DRS at (860) 297-5962 or outside the Hartford calling areas at (800) 382-9463 to make a report.
NBC 5 Investigates has obtained new records showing Dallas County Schools, a government agency that serves as the bus contractor for 12 local school districts, has spent more than $2.3 million settling hundreds of claims involving school bus accidents in the last three years.

Behind the number of claims settled are real people like Michael and Stephanie Phillips, who said a DCS school bus drivers careless actions nearly cost their daughters life in 2015.

Michael Phillips said he was driving an SUV at a south Dallas intersection when a school bus driver made a left hand turn in front of him. The crash sent their 7-year-old daughter, Sarah, to the hospital for emergency surgery to repair a ruptured spleen.

A police report said the bus driver failed to yield to the right of way and was inattentive.

When Sarahs mom arrived at the scene she couldnt believe it was a school bus.

"We employ them. We pay taxes and we employ them to do the right thing, so it was very shocking," said Stephanie Phillips. "I mean this time it wasn't a fatality but next time it could be one."

The Phillipses sued Dallas County Schools for Sarahs injuries.

Records show DCS admitted no fault but paid $100,000 to settle the case.

Its one of more than 680 claims detailed in a database obtained by NBC 5 Investigates through an open records request.

It shows in fewer than 36 months, DCS settled close to $2.4 million in claims related to accidents that ranged from minor fender-benders to injury collisions.

Settlement payments have increased over the last three years from more than $473,000 in 2014 to $600,000 in 2015 to $1.3 million in the first 10 months of 2016.

On top of paying the claims, DCS also has to fix the damage to their buses, and NBC 5 Investigates found that costs even more.

Monthly check records show DCS has spent another $1.3 million for collision repairs at local body shops since 2014. Its not clear from the records if DCS recovered any of that money from other drivers involved in collisions.

NBC 5 Investigates wanted to ask the man in charge of DCS about the costs, but superintendent Rick Sorrells has not responded to multiple requests for an interview or specific questions about the records.

Instead, a public relations firm hired by DCS responded by email saying that 680 claims does not mean there were 680 crashes.

"If a school bus is hit from behind by a vehicle, its possible that every child/family on the bus could file a claim," the firm said by email.

It went on to say that NBC 5 Investigates questions now require DCS to review every claim for the last three years and determine the facts about each situation. That takes time.

Late Friday, the PR firm sent an additional statement saying, "Dallas County schools chooses to self-insure its fleet because it saves the taxpayers $1 million in premiums every year. We've saved money each year we've self-insured."

They said, "approximately half of our accidents are 'not-at-fault' and thus another party would be financially responsible for our vehicle damage costs." The firm then added, we cannot talk about the specifics of settlement cases.

Settling a case does not mean DCS admitted fault. In fact, thats the case in most legal settlements.

The Phillips family is still dealing with what happened to them. Michael Phillips is also suing DCS for back injuries, and his lawyers are still questioning the bus agency.

We certainly want to look into how this driver was trained and specifically how he was trained to deal with intersections, said attorney, Martin Futrell.

The Phillipses want DCS to monitor driver behavior more closely and to spend more time training them to be safe.

Just think what youre carrying. Youre carrying a life  peoples children. Need to be just a little more responsible, said Michael Phillips.

The amount paid to settle cases would likely be even higher except for the fact that DCS is a government agency. In Texas the law puts a $100,000 limit on damages a person can collect for injuries from local governments.

The Phillipses said that amount was not enough to cover all that they went through.
Dallas police say a suspect is in custody in the beating outside a Target store in Dallas that injured a well-known local theater director and actor.

Derek Whitener, 33, was beaten with a wooden rod by two men just before 11 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 14, outside the Target store on the 2400 block of North Haskell Avenue, Dallas police say.

He was transported to Baylor Medical Center Dallas where he underwent surgery for a fractured skull. He was released from the hospital on Saturday, Jan. 28.

Police said two young men were responsible in the attack, and on Friday said one of them is in custody. Police did not immediately release further information about the arrest, including the suspect's identity.

Police said they continue to search for the second person involved. He is described as a black man between the ages of 18 and 20, standing about 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighing about 150 pounds. He was last seen wearing a black hoodie with white lettering, red/blue jeans, white Nike shoes, black backpack, and a gorilla mask.

While police have not confirmed the motive in the beating, they said Tuesday that Whitener, a well-known actor in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, was initially confronted by two men as he walked toward the store but that the men walked away when he went to the entrance.

Once inside the store, police said Whitener reported the men as "suspicious" to Target personnel.

As a Target security guard and an off-duty Dallas police officer approached the two men, one of them walked away. The second man, shown in surveillance video holding a wooden rod, had a brief discussion with the off-duty police officer and was asked to leave the property.

A benefit concert at Theatre 3 in Uptown Dallas Tuesday night will honor actor Derek Whitener and help raise money for his medical bills.

Whitener wrapped up his shopping and left the store at about 11:05 p.m. As he walked toward his vehicle, police said he was again approached by the two men. This time they made a threatening statement and began beating him with the stick before running from the parking lot.

A customer in the parking lot reported the incident to the off-duty officer who then called for medical help.

Police said there is no indication this is a hate crime, but they did not disclose what the men said before beating Whitener.

Anyone with information that could help police is asked to call the assaults unit at 214-671-3639 or Crime Stoppers at 214-373-TIPS (8477). Crime Stoppers is offering a reward up to $5,000 for information that leads to an arrest and conviction.
President Donald Trump signed an executive order calling for the "extreme vetting" of refugees admitted into the United States.

The executive order suspends the U.S. refugee program for 120 days and singles out Syrian refugees as "detrimental to the interests of the United States," banning the issuance of visas to people from Syria until the president feels the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program's vetting process is strengthened.

Frishta Ali has been through that process. She's a refugee from Iraq who was resettled in Texas nearly three years ago. In her experience, the United States is doing a thorough job already.

"It took me four years to go through this process. It was so hard for me to wait all these years under the situation I was going through," Ali said, sitting in the living room of her Allen home.

Ali applied for refugee status in 2010. Her sister was an interpreter for the U.S. Army, which put a target on her family's back.

"Our lives were being threatened by religious groups, terrorists. We'd be moving from one place to another place to be safe," Ali recalled.

Like the vast majority of refugees applying for resettlement in the United States Ali underwent a thorough vetting process.

From 2010 to 2013 she was interviewed on multiple occasions, underwent a medical screening, and multiple background checks. Her information was shared with multiple federal agencies, including Department of Homeland Security, the State Department and the intelligence community.

As this was happening, she was living in Iraq, constantly looking over her shoulder.

"You feel that someone is watching you, someone is threatening you. It's so hard for you not to be settled in your own country and to wait for the decision to move somewhere completely different," she said.

On Feb. 1, 2014, Ali's application was accepted. She left behind her brother and several family members for the chance to start a safer life in America. Though, she says, part of her heart is still in Iraq.

"I feel this is my country, but part of my heart is in my home country," she said.

The rest of her family, including her husband, is still in Iraq. They're currently in the middle of the same arduous process she went through. She's uncertain whether the executive order signed Friday will put a lag on an already slow-moving process.

"I want to be with my family. I want to be with my husband. I want my brother, my sister, my niece, my nephews to be here and to be safe. This decision is going to affect all of my life and my family's lives," she said.
An early-morning fire Saturday destroyed a Texas mosque that was a target of hatred several years ago and experienced a burglary just a week ago.

A clerk at a convenience store spotted smoke and flames billowing from the Islamic Center of Victoria at about 2 a.m. and called the fire department.

"It's sad to stand there and watch it collapse down, and the fire was so huge," Shahid Hashmi, the Islamic center's president, said. "It looks completely destroyed."

Victoria Fire Marshal Tom Legler asked for help from the Texas Fire Marshal's Office and federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to determine what caused the blaze. Hashmi said authorities have told him it was too early to speculate.

"None whatsoever right now," the center director said. "We don't have any lead or information as to what started the fire and what happened. So I'm sure it's going to be a few days, they told us, before they can come up with any answers for us."

The congregation's pastor, known as an imam, was awake in the early morning hours and checked online surveillance of the mosque and found no alarm active and the doors unlocked, Hashmi said.

On Jan. 21, someone broke in and stole some electronics, including laptops.

"He was worried about it and drove over there," Hashmi said. "By that time, fire engines were already there pouring water on the fire."

The structure was built in 2000. No injuries were reported. It took about four hours to extinguish the blaze.

Hashmi, who's lived in Victoria 32 years, said the congregation of about 140 has had few other problems and has enjoyed support from the city of about 115 miles southwest of Houston.

He already has received offers of temporary quarters for the congregation to worship.

"When 9/11 happened, Muslims and non-Muslims, we all got together," he said. "Of course, we will rebuild."

The Victoria Advocate on Saturday reported that in July 2013, a man admitted to painting "H8," a computer shorthand for "hate," on the outside of the building.

On Jan. 7, a mosque under construction near Lake Travis in Austin was burned to the ground.

The Texas office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations said like that blaze, it would monitor the investigation of the Victoria fire.

"Because of growing anti-Muslim bigotry in our nation, and because of the recent spike in hate incidents targeting Islamic institutions and individuals, we urge investigators to keep the possibility of a bias motive for this fire in mind," CAIR-Houston Executive Director Mustafaa Carroll said.

There's been no determination yet for the Austin blaze, Diane Kanawati, with CAIR-Austin, said Saturday.

In December, a man was sentenced to four years in prison for setting fire to a Houston mosque where he worshipped. Gary Nathaniel Moore pleaded guilty to arson and using a fire as a deadly weapon in a Dec. 25, 2015, blaze that caused significant damage at the Islamic Society of Greater Houston mosque.
Denton Countys new elections administrator is working to make sure all of the issues that came up during last Novembers election are fixed and that the county doesn't have any more problem-plagued votes.

He wasnt even working for the county last November when the problems at the polls began, but now Frank Phillips has taken it upon himself to get to the bottom of all of those issues and see they dont happen in future elections.

Phillips is still adjusting to his position as Denton Countys Election Administrator, but said the transition is proving fairly easy as he was once a long-time employee before taking up a post two years ago in Tarrant County.

However, when he left the Denton office then, it wasnt in the situation he finds it in now.

Last year, the county caught attention when several issues came up during the November election.

First, they faced computer issues and complaints of incorrect signage at early voting spots.

Then things only got rockier on Election Day when several ballot counting machines went to polls improperly set up and had to be replaced on the fly.

In the days that followed, the former administrator elected to step down and take early retirement, and county commissioners selected Phillips to take over the job to get to the bottom of those problems.

His days now are filled with a lot of long meetings with key players in the county, attempting to iron out the issues.

On Thursday and Friday, he met with officials from the local Republican and Democratic parties to discuss adding precincts to the county to better deal with massive growth in the area.

Phillips said hes also hoping to hire more staff to address that growth and get the office working with more appropriate staffing numbers.

Hes also had staff checking every voting machine to replace those in need of upgrades, organizing the warehouses and operations and plans to add more training to their already heavy load.

"If you don't check yourself, have somebody else check you, have somebody else check them. You're going to run into trouble, and that's the bedrock of getting these things done right, said Phillips.

County Judge Mary Horn said shes pleased with Phillipss work and the turnaround in the office so far.

The judge stressed that it doesnt appear that voter fraud was a factor last November or that there were wide-spread technology issues; rather she said it was human errors that have to be addressed.

We think we know what went wrong. Now we want to know we know what went wrong, she said.

The county plans to continue meeting on the topic and keep working to see that future elections go forth without problems.

The office will face their first small test since November next month when they help Frisco with their special city election. Phillips said the May election will be the true test, though.
Karen Topakian had a pretty good reason not to be at her San Francisco book club this week.

The 62-year-old Greenpeace chair was 100-feet up in the air on top of a crane in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, spreading her progressive messages on Facebook Live, before she was arrested along with six other activists  three others of whom are from the Bay Area.

This is why I had to miss book group last night," Topakian wrote cryptically on Wednesday to a friend, in a post from atop a crane that has been seen nearly 500,000 times. I told her Id explain it to her later, Topakian said in a phone interview on Friday, a day before she plans to return home to her home in the Mission District.

The action was one of the top trending stories earlier this week, and drew global attention to the simple banner the group hung up top of a construction crane that read: Resist.

Their protest came one day after President Donald Trump signed orders intended to restart construction of two oil pipelines, the Dakota Access and the Keystone XL. Trumps administration also moved on Tuesday to delay implementation of at least 30 environmental rules and froze new Environmental Protection Agency contracts and grant awards. On Thursday, he reiterated he was going to build a wall on Mexico's dime.

Yes, this was Topakians first time climbing a crane. But no, this was not her first arrest. It was her 36th.

The Rhode-Island born activist started off as an anti-nuclear movement in the 1980s, about the time when she moved to California and attended the San Francisco Art Institute.

So she is quite familiar with the legal process. She and the six other high-climbing protesters were arraigned Thursday on three misdemeanor charges. The charges are unlawful entry, destruction of property and unlawful demonstrating.

Theres another court appearance scheduled in a few weeks and Topakain said, I fully intend to be there. Its my responsibility to follow through. She was arrested with Pearl Robinson and Zeph Fishlyn, both of of Oakland and Nancy Pili Hernandez of San Francisco. The three other activists, Zachary Riddle of Maryland, Josh Ingram of Seattle and Zakaria Kronemer of Brooklyn, were the ones who climbed up the full 270 feet to hang the banner.

The group received much praise from like-minded liberals. "From the bottom of my heart, thank you," wrote Jennifer Bryson.

But Topakians own Facebook feed is full of critics too. Rachel Springstead wrote: Learn to accept it. It is democracy and its in the constitution. What you have done today is dangerous and illegal, with careless regard for anyone else. And Lecia Balian wrote, You are a shame and embarrassment to Armenians everywhere around the world. Your actions should be considered an act of treason.

Topakian, who owns her own communications business when shes not climbing cranes, doesnt know who first came up with the idea to pull the stunt in D.C. She was on the East Coast anyway for the Womens March. All she knows is that when she heard about it, she knew she was in, despite her very strong fear of heights.

I was absolutely freaking out, she said. But I knew I had to past it because the stakes are much greater than my fear.

She also feels the action was a complete success, based on the news stories it garnered and the views on Facebook Live, which she said was surprisingly easy to use, even at five stories up in the air. It was really effective in delivering my message, which then gets immediately shared, she said.

As for the message?

It was a long laundry list of environmental, feminist and pro-immigrant rights desires and platforms. Our goal was to send a message to the president, Were going on the record to resist your reprehensible policies,  she said.

But, she said, the action was also to inspire people who dont understand their country any more and serve as a rallying cry to resist.
After an exhaustive search for a 5-year-old boy in a rain-swollen creek in Southern California, officials found the child's body in the water Thursday, buried under 6 to 8 feet of debris.

Cal Fire Division Chief Nick Schuler said the body of a young boy  who has now been officially identified by the San Diego County Medical Examiner (ME) as Fallbrook resident Phillip Campbell  was discovered just after 11 a.m. in very thick brush and trees, in an area referred to by officials as a strainer.

Cal Fire Division Chief Nick Schuler explains the challenging, treacherous search for the body of Phillip Campbell, a 5-year-old boy last seen on Jan. 22, 2017, near a rain-swollen creek in Rainbow. It was literally a needle in a haystack, Schuler said of the exhaustive mission.

Schuler said strainers are areas where large trees have fallen across the creek and where debris and brush has gotten hung up as the water rushes through.

He said Cal Fires inmate hand crews were removing debris and brush in a heavily-wooded strainer area when they noticed a small shoe lying in the brush. As they removed more debris, they uncovered the body of a little boy.

The area where the body was found is near Moon Valley Nurseries on the west side of Interstate 15.

San Diego County Sheriffs Department PIO Ryan Keim confirmed the body of a child was found on Jan. 26, 2017, in a rain-swollen creek in Rainbow, California, where a 5-year-old boy vanished five days prior.

Schuler said the area was difficult to access, making for a very technical search  very complicated and dangerous.

[The creek] probably flowed in excess of 15 to 18 feet deep and 80 feet wide, he explained. He was buried in approximately 6 to 8 feet of debris.

It literally was like a needle in a haystack to try and find this little boy, he added.

Schuler confirmed the search for Phillip was over Thursday.

BREAKING: Medical Examiner says a body has been found here in this area of Rainbow Creek. #nbc7 pic.twitter.com/1TvxrHZexf  Artie Ojeda (@ArtieNBCSD) January 26, 2017

Phillip was last seen near the creek Sunday amid a series of strong winter storms that swept San Diego County and the surrounding region.

According to the boy's family, Phillip was traveling by car that day with family friend Roland Phillips, 73. As their car approached the area, it was carried away by rising water in what is normally a small creek running across San Diego's North County to the Pacific Ocean.

BREAKING: This is some of the debris rescue teams had to pull out just to get to the body. #nbc7 pic.twitter.com/m9FycjFILE  Artie Ojeda (@ArtieNBCSD) January 26, 2017

Roland was heading to Riverside County to check out a car for sale and took the boy along, family members said. The pair were inseparable and did everything together.

Investigators don't yet have all the facts, but it appears to the boy's family that the creek spilled over onto Fifth Street, east of Interstate 15, and swept Roland's Toyota Camry into Rainbow Creek.

BREAKING: Truck overturned where finger is pointing, body was found at green dot about a mile away. #nbc7 pic.twitter.com/gYReewh4lH  Artie Ojeda (@ArtieNBCSD) January 26, 2017

Since Sunday, crews with Cal Fire and the San Diego County Sheriffs Department (SDSO) had been extensively searching the area. Winter storm conditions and water levels in the creek made the first few days of the search extremely difficult and dangerous.

On Monday, Rolands body was pulled from the creek. However, Phillip was nowhere to be found.

One Rainbow resident told NBC 7 that she saw the boy clinging to a tree limb before disappearing downstream on Sunday. The ME's report said other witnesses called 911 to report the child floating in the creek.

The searched pressed on  by ground and air  over the next five days. On Tuesday, SDSO officials searched by helicopter from the point where Rolands vehicle was believed to have entered the creek to the ocean. A crew flew low enough for searchers to try and spot any sign of the child.

NBC 7s Bridget Naso is in Rainbow where crews have been searching for 5-year-old Phillip Campbell since Sunday night.

Again, nothing.

Deputies said their mission was a recovery effort, not a rescue, as they child was presumed dead.

As the rain stopped and water levels dropped, the search resumed Wednesday and again Thursday.

Schuler said four swift water teams continued to move up and down the creek. SDSO search and rescue teams canvassed the area.

He said the mission was challenging as there were so many downed trees in the creek, crews had to cut away the trees to search for the boy.

There were trees in excess of 2 feet in diameter [knocked down in the creek, Schuler explained.

Officials said the body discovered Thursday was located about a mile away from where Rolands truck and his body were found earlier in the week.

Due to tough conditions in the water, crews were only able to search by air Tuesday morning for a 5-year-old boy lost  and feared dead  in a rain-swollen creek in Rainbow, California, just north of San Diego. NBC 7s Elena Gomez reports.

At a news briefing Thursday, SDSO public information officer Ryan Keim called the case a true tragedy. He thanked search crews for their teamwork and dedication.

An incident like this  as heartbreaking and tragic as it  everyone came together, and really sacrificed to find this little boy and to bring some closure for his family, said Keim.

I think whats important to realize, is that this is a tragic, heartbreaking day for everybody involved. I can tell you that each of the rescuers out here had that family and that little boy on their mind the entire time they were searching  and through some very treacherous conditions, he added. But, thats what keeps them going, is knowing that theyre there to bring some closure to this family.

Phillip's uncle, Anthony Campbell, confirmed via a social media post Thursday that the body was that of Phillip. He posted this message online:

"The search and rescue team have found my nephew Phillip...please join me tonight at Calvary chapel in fallbrook from 6 to 7 for a Candlelight Vigil...thank you for your loving thoughts and prayers may his innocent soul find eternal rest...Tony. Dear God, As we mourn the loss of innocent Phillip We know that our heartache is not Hidden from your loving Spirit As we face the loss of this precious child We ask that You comfort us with the knowledge that Phillip now lives in your loving embrace. Amen."

Early in the search for the boy, his grandmother, Lynda Campbell, told NBC 7 the family knew Phillip was gone.

We know Phillip now is just a shell. He's with Jesus but we would like to bring him home and give him a burial, she said.

Phillip was a student at Mike Choate Preschool and was described by loved ones as curious, silly and full of laughter.

NBC 7s Dave Summers speaks with a San Diego family who believes 5-year-old Phillip Campbell was swept away by rushing water Sunday afternoon.

He was best friends with Roland, whom he called "Pappy." Phillips lived with the boy's legal guardian and his grandmother.

"He followed him everywhere, everywhere," Philip's grandmother said of the boy's friendship with Roland.

Family and friends gathered at Calvary Chapel in Fallbrook Thursday night to pay tribute to Phillip and Roland. The family said they will forever be grateful for the community's outpouring of love and support during this difficult time.

According to the ME's report, little Phillip had turned 5 on Jan. 13. His cause and manner of death will be determined at a later time.
The Riverside Police Department is mourning the loss of a 17-year-old Riverside Police Explorer who was killed in a car crash this week.

Paul Napier, of Jurupa Valley, was a member of Riverside Police Explorer Post 714 for the past one and a half years. The program is designed for people between the ages of 14 and 21 "who have an interest in learning about law enforcement," Riverside police noted on the program's website.

Napier was injured when the car he was driving struck a pole at the intersection of Magnolia Avenue and Banbury Drive around 4:13 p.m. Wednesday, according to Riverside police. He was taken to a nearby hospital where he died from his injuries.

What led to the crash was under investigation. Riverside police called it a "tragic loss" on social media Friday morning.

Police said Napier was an 11th-grader at Jurupa Valley High School, and worked for his stepfather's tire business. His stepsister, Jessica, is also a Riverside Police Explorer.

A fund has been set up through the Riverside Police Foundation to give assistance to Napier's family. Donations can be made online at mkt.com/riverside-police-foundation under the Napier Family Donation section or in person at the Riverside Police Officers' Association at 1965 Chicago Ave., Suite B, Riverside, CA 92507.
Authorities say one person was killed and three others were hospitalized following a crash involving a stolen police car along Coral Way Saturday afternoon.

Miami-Dade Police and Fire Rescue responded to the deadly crash located at Southwest 99 Avenue and Coral Way near Tamiami Park.

A stolen Miami-Dade Police Department car, an SUV with a family inside, and a Honda Civic with one occupant were involved in the accident, according to police.

The driver of the stolen police car died at the scene.

Police have shut down traffic in the area, delays are expected.

Traffic is diverted in both directions on Coral Way from 97th Avenue to 102nd Avenue.

Officials have not released any further information.

Check back with NBC 6 for updates on this developing story.
Insane Clown Posse are serious about planning a march on Washington to protest the FBI labeling their fans as a "loosely organized hybrid gang."

ICP say they tried legal means and got nowhere, so they're calling on fans to gather on the National Mall in Washington on September 16.

They say in a statement, "This is NOT a party," but a way to show the world that their fans, known as Juggalos, are peaceful and unfairly stigmatized.

They say Juggalos have faced discrimination in employment, with custody battles and in traffic stops because they're labeled gang members.
A recent crime wave that had Broward cities on alert may have spread to Aventura.

The city's police department is investigating a string of robberies that detectives believe may be connected to similar incidents across South Florida.

Aventura detectives say victims are being targeted in the parking lots of shopping centers.

Police say the attacks play out similar to the incidents that unfolded in Plantation where shoppers were followed and mugged.

Aventura Police say the suspects intentional cause minor crashes to get victims out of their vehicles before robbing them.

Authorities have not tied the suspects charged in the Plantation robberies to the attacks in Aventura.
By Noel Randewich

SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Shares of U.S. supermarket operators fell on Friday as President Donald Trump kept up his criticism of Mexico, which is a major supplier of produce and other foods for U.S. consumers.

A day after the White House suggested that the United States could impose a 20 percent tax on goods from Mexico, shares of Wal-Mart Stores <WMT.N> and Kroger Co <KR.N> fell more than 1 percent, while Whole Foods Market <WFM.O> dropped 2.8 percent.

Trump on Friday repeated statements that Mexico, a major exporter of vegetables, fruits and beer, has taken advantage of the United States. Mexico, he said, "beat us to a pulp," deepening worries about a crisis between the two trading partners.

On Thursday, Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto scrapped a planned trip to Washington to meet Trump, who has repeatedly demanded that Mexico pay for a wall on the U.S. border to halt illegal immigration. The White House later said the potential 20 percent tax could be used to pay for the wall.

Mexico was the second-largest supplier of agricultural exports to the United States in 2015, according to the Office of the United States Trade Representative, or USTR.

Mexican agricultural exports to the United States in 2015 totaled about $21.6 billion, up 191 percent from 1993, before the two countries and Canada cemented the North American Free Trade Agreement, according to the USTR.

Less than 1 percent of Hass avocados - the main ingredient in guacamole - sold in the United States so far in 2017 were domestically grown, with 93 percent arriving from Mexico, according to the Hass Avocado Board.

The United States consumes nearly all of its own tomatoes, exporting just 6 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Of the tomatoes the United States imports, Mexico accounts for 71 percent, with Canada supplying most of the rest.

A new tax on food imported from Mexico would leave supermarkets with the difficult choices of raising prices, sacrificing already low profitability, or a mixture of the two.

Story continues

U.S. grocers deal with a higher-than-average cost of goods sold than most other industries, resulting in razor-thin margins. Through 2015, the six-year average cost of goods sold as a percentage of revenue for U.S. grocers was 73.4 percent versus around 56 percent for all U.S. industries, according to Plunkett Research.

Shares Kroger and Wal-Mart are down about 3 percent from before Trump's inauguration a week ago while food distributor Sysco <SYY.N> has lost about 1.5 percent.

(Reporting by Noel Randewich; Editing by Leslie Adler and Meredith Mazzilli)
Sen. Marco Rubio traveled to southwest Florida Friday where he took part in a round table with members of the state's agricultural industry and responded to the executive action on immigration.

Sen. Rubio visited the Redlands Christian Migrant Association, a migrant advocate group, as well as members of the Gulf Citrus Growers Association in Immokalee.

"I think the priority is always going to be people that are a danger to our country. We have immigration laws and they have to be enforced but the priority should always be and I believe will be, dangerous criminals who pose a public safety threat," Rubio said.

Members of the association said people are worried about President Trump's recent orders on immigration.

"People are very scared, people are very scared," said Ivette Galarza, director of operations. "We work with many parents in this community and they shared with us, you know, 'do I have to worry about being gone tomorrow?'"

Rubio weighed in on the immigration changes.

"What we have now is not good for anyone. It isn't good for the U.S., it isn't good for Mexico, isn't good for migrants and refugees and immigrants," Rubio said.

Much of the labor in the area and in the Florida groves is provided by migrants through legal worker programs. However, undocumented immigrants still make up a portion of the workforce and this is bringing uncertainty to many.

"There's no question that we have a broken immigration system but I think that there's so much better that we can do as a country," Galarza said.

Rubio also touched on Trump's order that would essentially pull funding from sanctuary cities who shelter undocumented immigrants.

"The question is the cost. If you're asking local authorities to hold people because of their immigration status, that costs money to put them in custody," Rubio said. "So I have no problem with that but the federal government should step forward and provide the funding for the additional burden."
Mayor de Blasio has agreed to sit down with federal prosecutors in an attempt to convince them there were never any quid pro quos nor any trading of government favors for political donations during his time at City Hall, sources tell NBC 4 New York.

The major development comes days after de Blasio was questioned by prosecutors in the Manhattan district attorney's office in a separate investigation into whether he routed donations to three Democratic senate candidates upstate to avoid donation limits.

In the federal probe, prosecutors are looking into whether de Blasio and his aides traded government favors for donations to the mayor's nonprofit Campaign for One New York or his 2013 mayoral campaign.

U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara's office had asked the mayor to come in and answer questions, and de Blasio has agreed, sources say. He plans to answer the questions without the protection of immunity.

Sources close to the mayor tell NBC 4 he's agreed to the interview with federal prosecutors in part because he believes he can convince them he is innocent. De Blasio is expected to meet with them in the next two weeks, according to the sources. The mayor's strategy is bold and risky, legal experts say.

A spokesman for the U.S. attorney declined to comment, as did an FBI spokeswoman.

De Blasio's criminal defense lawyer, Barry Berke, already had at least one meeting of his own with prosecutors in an attempt to convince them not to press charges, sources told NBC 4.

Berke has not returned numerous calls for comment.

De Blasio has long insisted that his fundraising followed the law.

"We are very careful about doing things in a legal and appropriate manner," the mayor previously told NBC 4 New York. "We're very careful about disclosing the support we get."

The planned meeting with federal prosecutors comes after the mayor met with the Manhattan district attorney's office. Prosecutors there are apparently wrapping up a separate criminal investigation into whether anyone at City Hall crossed any lines in helping raise money to try to help Democrats take control of the state Senate.

De Blasio said he hasn't been informed that he's the target of an investigation in that case.

Jonathan Dienst contributed to this report
What to Know Hundreds protested at JFK where at least 12 refugees were detained.

A federal judge issued a nationwide stay preventing those detained from being deported.

The order also requires the government to provide a list of names of those detained.

Hundreds of protesters erupted in cheers Saturday night as they learned that a federal judge in Brooklyn blocked part of President Donald Trump's travel ban, preventing immigrants detained at JFK and other U.S. airports from being deported.

The temporary injunction from U.S. District Judge Ann Donnelly also requires the government to provide a list of the names of people detained. At least 10 people remained detained at JFK Saturday, two others were released before the judge's ruling.

This ruling preserves the status quo and ensures that people who have been granted permission to be in this country are not illegally removed off U.S. soil," said Lee Gelernt, deputy director of the ACLUs Immigrants Rights Project who argued the case.

[NATL] Trump Immigration Order Triggers Protests Across US

Crowds gathered at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn where the American Civil Liberties Union argued for the nationwide stay. As lawyers emerged from court, the crowd broke out in chants of "Yes we can, yes we can."

Hillary Clinton tweeted about the protests late Saturday, saying: "I stand with the people gathered across the country tonight defending our values & our Constitution. This is not who we are."

I stand with the people gathered across the country tonight defending our values & our Constitution. This is not who we are.  Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) January 29, 2017

The Department of Homeland Security issued a statement early Sunday that said the court order would not affect the overall implementation of the White House order and the court order affected a small number of travelers who were inconvenienced by security procedures upon their return.

"President Trump's Executive Orders remain in place. Prohibited travel will remain prohibited, and the U.S. government retains its right to revoke visas at any time if required for national security or public safety," according to the DHS statement. Stephen Miller, a senior adviser to the White House, said: "Nothing in the Brooklyn judge's order in anyway impedes or prevents the implementation of the president's executive order which remains in full, complete and total effect."

The protest had largely shifted to the courthouse from John F. Kennedy International Airport, where people gathered for a daylong protest that at times had more than 300 people.

They held homemade signs that read "No ban, no wall" and "Refugees welcome" in front of Terminal 4's international arrivals area. One sign called for President Trump's impeachment and the deportation of the first lady.

"We're here to tell Trump that we are not going anywhere," said lawyer and refugee advocate Jacki Esposito, who helped organize the protest. "Today is the beginning of a long opposition from us, and our neighbors all over the country."

Rep. Nydia Velazquez condemns the detainment of two heavily vetted Iraqi refugees at JFK airport, calling the action an affront to American values.

Trump said the halt in the refugee program was necessary to give agencies time to develop a stricter screening system. His executive order also banned refugees from Syria indefinitely, and put in place an immediate 90-day ban for all immigration to the U.S. from the seven Muslim-majority nations.

One of the people detained at JFK was Hameed Jhalid Darweesh, who worked with the U.S. in Iraq in a number of roles, including as an interpreter for the U.S. army. He had been targeted twice for working with the U.S. military, according to The New York Times.

Nearly four hours after news of the detainment broke, U.S. Rep. Jerry Nadler announced that Darweesh was released from custody.

Pleased to announce w/@NydiaVelazquez the release of Hameed Jhalid Darweesh from detention at JFK. pic.twitter.com/AeKDhIPp7k  (((Rep. Nadler))) (@RepJerryNadler) January 28, 2017

After he was freed Saturday, Darweesh told a waiting crowd: "We know America is the land of freedom, the land of freedom, the land of light. I am very thankful and very happy.

"America is the greatest nation, the greatest people in the world."

He said that he came with his family and they were separated while he was detained. His family was released while he was held.

A second Iraqi refugee detained was detained later Saturday, the immigrant rights group Make the Road said. That left 10 refugees in custody at JFK.

"We will use every tool at our disposal to bring justice to America" - NY Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez addressing JFK protest #muslimban pic.twitter.com/whmPWBz91C  Chris Brooks (@chactivist) January 28, 2017

The New York Taxi Workers Alliance (NYTWA) joined the protest, drawing attention to the anti-Muslim violence suffered by their Sikh and non-Muslim brown drivers. Taxi drivers didn't pick up passengers from 6 p.m.-7p.m. at JFK in solidarity with protesters, the union tweeted.

"Today, drivers are joining the protest at JFK Airport in support of all those who are currently being detained #NoBanNoWall," the nonprofit organization tweeted.

Today, drivers are joining the protest at JFK Airport in support of all those who are currently being detained #NoBanNoWall  NY Taxi Workers (@NYTWA) January 28, 2017

NYTWA added that the executive orders puts professional drivers and its members, many of who are Muslim, in more danger since 9/11, when hate crimes against Muslims skyrocketed.

"By sanctioning bigotry with his unconstitutional and [sic] inhumane executive order, the president is putting professional drivers in more danger than they have been in any time since 9/11," the organization said in a statement Saturday.

Reps. Nadler and Nydia Velazquez met with Customs and Border Patrol supervisors at the airport as the two worked to provide legal access to the detainees.

At JFK now with @NydiaVelazquez to help refugees detained by Trump's shameful order. pic.twitter.com/jiN5bWBfnw  (((Rep. Nadler))) (@RepJerryNadler) January 28, 2017

"These are people who are no threat to the United States and who have worked with the armed forces for years and who were given visas on those basis," Nadler said. "It is shameful not to mention [that they've worked with the US for years] and probably implies religious discrimination."

"It is a sad day for the American people. This is not who we are, this is an affront to our American values," said Velazquez. "This is a matter of life and death. These types of actions undermine our national security, and our president, Donald Trump, doesn't get it."

In a statement posted to his Twitter account, Gov. Andrew Cuomo called the words inscribed at the foot of the Statue of Liberty to remind people that America is a melting pot, not a divider, of cultures.

We are a nation of bridges, not walls. This is not who we are. And not who we should be. pic.twitter.com/ipfjkJtDOk  Andrew Cuomo (@NYGovCuomo) January 28, 2017

"We are a nation of bridges, not walls, and a great many of us still believe the words 'give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses...'," he said. "This is not who we are. And not who we should be."

Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman said his staff had been in touch with lawyers for the refugees and would provide legal assistance to them.

"I will do everything in my power to help those who have been victimized by President Trump's discriminatory and dangerous executive action," Schneiderman said.

The protests disrupted traffic at the airport. The Port Authority said there would be no taxi pick-ups or drop-offs until 8 p.m. and travelers should make alternate plans.

The Port Authority suspended AirTrain service to the airport, but Cuomo ordered the agency to reverse its decision and restore service. He also told the MTA and state police to assist with the transportation and security of the protesters.

"The people of New York will have their voices heard," Cuomo said in a statement.
It's time for the Chinese New Year.

Whether you celebrate the Lunar New Year, or you are just looking to get in on the holiday fun, here are some events you can attend in New York City this weekend to help you ring in the Year of the Rooster.

Saturday, Jan. 28

Chinatown Lunar New Year Firecracker Ceremony & Parade at Sara D. Roosevelt Park, Chrystie St to Forsyth St

Organized by the Better Chinatown Society, the parade will feature hundreds of thousands of sparkly explosives to ward off bad spirits for the year. There will also be dance performances, delicious Chinese food and much more.

Temple Bazaar at Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd

Take part in the festivities with Flushing locals at this traditional temple-style bazaar. The second annual bazaar will feature music, dance and martial arts performances. Taste the wonders of traditional Shandong, Chinese and Taiwanese dishes. Get hands-on by learning crafts like papercutting and calligraphy under the red paper lanterns. Adult tickets are $5 and childrens tickets are $3. Swing by at 11 a.m. or 2 p.m.

More info here.

CHOP-SHOP (West Chelsea and Flatiron)

The Chop Shop is offering a prix-fixe menu for the Lunar New Year. Foodies can indulge in a choice of two small plates, including Salt and Pepper Shrimp and Pork Belly Buns and a choice of Braised Beef Red Curry Fried Rice or Lobster Fried Rice. The special menu also includes desserts.

More info here.

Sunday, Jan. 29

Madison Street to Madison Avenue Lunar New Year Celebration, Madison Avenue/54th St to 77th Sts

Thsi celebration kicks off at 11 a.m. on Madison Avenue at 76th Street. The opening ceremonies include guest speakers, performers, including the New York Eastern Chamber Orchestra, a traditional Chinese marionette puppet show and a martial arts performance. There will be plenty of excitement for the tiny tots inside heated tents, including Chinese face painting, calligraphy and a themed photo booth.

More info here.

Brooklyn Lunar New Year Parade, Sunset Park, 8th Ave and 50th St.

Brooklyns hosting its very first Lunar New Year parade. The lantern parade will be in Brooklyns Chinatown. There will be floats, firecrackers and tons of confetti. Attendance is free.

Chinese New Year: Year of the Rooster, Greenbelt Nature Center in Blood Root Valley , 700 Rockland Avenue at Brielle Avenue

Staten Islanders can also enjoy the Lunar New Year in an amazing way. The Staten Island Greenbelt Conservancy invites all people to come learn about the history of the ancient celebration and the symbolism of the rooster while you munch on some traditional snacks. Admission is $6 for Greenbelt Conservancy members and $8 for non-members. Call 718-351-3450 or email naturecenter@sigreenbelt.org to register.

More info here.

Tuesday, Jan. 31

Chinese New Year Celebration at David Geffen Hall (at Lincoln Center) 132 W 65th St

Listen to the melodic sounds of the New York Philharmonic. The sixth annual Chinese New Year Gala Concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. and features Puccinis Turandot as well as Chinese folk songs such as Jasmine Flower and a new trumpet concerto, Joie Eternelle. Tickets range from $35$110.

More info here.

Saturday, Feb. 4

Chinese New Year Celebration: Year of the Rooster in FiDi, 40 Rector Street, 2nd Floor

Enjoy dumpling-making classes, paper lantern workshops and family-friendly storytelling sessions about the Lunar New Year from 1-4 p.m. You can also dance the night away from 4-7 p.m. at the concert/party, where attendees are treated to a traditional lion dance performance. Family workshop tickets are $15 for adult members, $5 for children members, $20 for adult non-members, $5 for children non-members. Patron members are free. Family tickets include entry to one workshop and the concert. For those looking to attend just the concert, the tickets are $10 for members, $20 for non-members and free for patron members.

More info here.

Saturday, Feb. 11

Lunar New Year at Brookfield Place, 230 Vesey St

Brookfield Place will be demonstrating Chinese traditions at their Lunar New Year celebration. Watch the colorful Lion Parade led by lion dances throughout the space before the show. Guests of all ages are welcome.

More info here.
mike pence abortion defund planned parenthood

Addressing the 44th annual March for Life on Friday, Vice President Mike Pence declared that it was a new day for anti-abortion activists in America.

"This administration will work with Congress to end taxpayer funding for abortion and abortion providers, and we will devote those resources to health care services for women across America," Pence told the crowd of thousands gathered on the National Mall.

But it's already illegal to use taxpayer funding to pay for an abortion.

Congress first passed the Hyde Amendment in 1977, four years after the Supreme Court ruled women have a constitutional right to abortion in Roe v. Wade. It prevents Medicaid dollars from paying for abortions except in the cases of rape, incest, or if the mother's health is endangered.

'Defunding' Planned Parenthood has very little to do with abortions

While politicians have popularized the term "defunding" when talking about stripping federal funds for Planned Parenthood, the group's political communications director, Erica Sackin, said this is misleading.

"There's no line item in the budget for Planned Parenthood," Sackin told Business Insider. "We're not funded through the federal budget bill."

Planned Parenthood health centers serve 2.5 million people each year, nearly two-thirds of whom rely on public programs like Medicaid to pay for their care. When lawmakers pass bills to "defund" the organization, (as many states have), those patients then have to pay for healthcare at Planned Parenthood out of pocket.

But, again, the Hyde Amendment prevents women from using Medicaid to pay for abortions.

So while it may seem as if "defunding" Planned Parenthood is a way to prevent abortions, Sackin said, "it's going to affect people who don't have anywhere else to go" get care like cancer screenings.

Story continues

According to Planned Parenthood's most recent annual report, only 3% of the organization's services are abortions. Most people are getting birth control or STD tests at Planned Parenthood clinics:

planned parenthood services BI Graphics_PP

Most states follow the Hyde Amendment, but 17 have gone around the law to allow qualified women to use state funding to cover the cost of abortions. A handful of states, however, have passed laws allowing even fewer exceptions than Hyde provides, banning women from getting abortions even for rape or incest.

A new bill that passed the House on January 24 would aim to prohibit any taxpayer funding from paying for abortions, effectively doubling down on the Hyde Amendment. It would have to pass the Senate and be signed by President Donald Trump in order to become law.

What 'defunding' could do

paul ryan obamacare

At the start of this legislative session, House Speaker Paul Ryan said Republicans plan to defund Planned Parenthood when they try to repeal the Affordable Care Act, more commonly known as Obamacare.

If Republicans scrap the law, 47 million women could lose the guaranteed access to birth control without a co-pay that Obamacare provides.

But that's just part of the fight.

The GOP party platform outlines its firm stance against abortion, Trump has suggested he plans to appoint conservative Supreme Court justices to overturn Roe v. Wade, and Pence has enacted some of the country's strictest legislation against abortion as the governor of Indiana.

Kelley Robinson, the deputy national organizing director for Planned Parenthood, said one in five women will visit the organization in their lifetimes, and that defunding it would be a "national health disaster."

"The outpouring of need is so, so clear," Robinson told Business Insider. "People need access to Planned Parenthood. We're a part of their community, and we're a critical provider of health care."

NOW WATCH: TRUMP: Women who want abortions may have to 'go to another state'





More From Business Insider


New Yorkers dressed as cowboys, medieval figures, goths and several others in clever costumes flocked to the streets for the annual Idiotarod race.

Now in its 13th year, the Iditarod parody doesn't compare to an intense dogsled race across the Alaskan tundra. Instead, participants pull intricately decorated shopping carts through city streets while dressed in silly costumes.

Teams of five or more members brave the elements to see which group is the most creative and who can bribe the event's two judges best. Last year, there was a Kardashian clown car, a group of Andy Warhols with Campbell's Soup hats, and several Vegas Elvis Presleys vying for the title of most creative.

At least 15 teams are participating, the largest turnout in several years, according to Gothamist.

The secret route hasn't been revealed, but the teams started at the Brooklyn Bridge.

Participants and onlookers took to Twitter to document the inventive outfits kids and adults donned for the day.

#Idiotarod Pirates. Right under the Brooklyn Bridge at Pier one Park in Brooklyn Heights or Dumbo. pic.twitter.com/zkoiCRLSE6  Stan O'Connor (@TourguideStan) January 28, 2017

This group recreates Medieval Times, a medieval themed restaurant in New Jersey.#idiotarod # IdiotarodNYC pic.twitter.com/2dfDXIXpnx  Stan O'Connor (@TourguideStan) January 28, 2017

WHEEL



OF



FORTUNE!!

#Idiotarod #IdiotarodNYC

It actually sounds!

This guy really got into Drew Carey. pic.twitter.com/84neN1IHQ4  Stan O'Connor (@TourguideStan) January 28, 2017

One group used their creativity to send a message in a sweet way.

[NATL] Top Entertainment Photos: Best of the American Music Awards, and More
The latest Vanity Fair Mexico cover is making waves for all the wrong reasons.

https://twitter.com/VanityFairMX/status/824725741908717570

A smiling Melania Trump is front and center, sporting a simple white outfit and twirling silver jewels on a fork like linguini. The February 2017 magazine release on Thursday coincided with Mexican president Enrique Pena Nieto cancelling his trip to the United States after Trump took executive action to build a wall along the Mexican-American border. In light of current political controversies, some Trump critics have mocked the timing and subject of the story, which touts Melania as the new Jackie Kennedy.

The Vanity Fair interview is nothing new -- literally. Originally printed in English last April, Julia Ioffes story was commissioned for GQ, another Conde Nast publication. But the introduction, which was penned after Trumps electoral victory, gives some insight into how Mexican writers view the first lady and her husband.

If she suffered a terrible car accident, her husband wouldnt leave her -- as long as her breasts were still intact, of course, the editors wrote in Spanish. They called Melania timid, beautiful, and complacent, and commented on her pictures from last spring.

In a photoshoot with Douglas Friedman, the now first lady of the United States reflects that essence of luxury that surrounds her, they wrote, A status with which she feels comfortable, happy, regardless of whether in editorial images this seems sarcastic and almost laughable.
A former Pennsylvania mayor is avoiding jail time after pleading guilty to accumulating Wild West artifacts he bought with public money for a museum that was never built.

Former Harrisburg Mayor Stephen Reed was sentenced Friday to two years of probation in a courthouse around the corner from his one-time mayoral offices.

Judge Kevin Hess says a prison sentence would be grossly disproportionate in the case. He also noted that Reed has stage 4 cancer and no criminal record.

Reed apologized, and he called the case gut-wrenching and humiliating.

Reed pleaded guilty earlier this week to 20 counts of receiving stolen property. All the charges involve photos or documents.

The seven-term Democrat lost the 2009 primary, in part because the millions of dollars he spent on museum-related items had drawn criticism.
The dean of faculty at Princeton University sent an email to her colleagues Friday that noted some students and scholars have been "strongly advised" to put off travel outside the United States in the aftermath of President Trump's executive order on immigration.

Deborah Prentice, a professor of psychology and public affairs at the Ivy League school, wrote the email within hours of Trump signing an order that put restrictions on travel from seven predominantly Muslim countries and temporarily halted a refugee program for Syrian immigrants.

The full ramifications of the order were not yet known late Friday after the Trump administration released the order publicly.

Prentice wrote that despite the ambiguity in the immediate aftermath of the order, she said deferring travel was recommended.

"We have strongly advised students and scholars who might be affected and who have travel plans in the coming days to defer travel outside of the United States until there is some clarity and legal analysis of the situation or, if they must travel, to seek legal counsel before they do," she wrote.

Those potentially affected members of the Princeton community were also given some information from a New York-based immigration law firm, Fragomen, that Prentice said has advised the university in the past.

Prentice said in another email Saturday morning that she was not available to comment further. A university spokesman said the administration would not comment further.

Trump said in signing the order that he pledged to "keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America."

Syria was the only country he named Friday, but the order suspended entry for 90 days from countries linked to a statute in the Visa Waiver Program. Besides Syria, those countries are: Iraq, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen.

In her email, Prentice said the order could also affect research and college education.

"We do, however, want ... to express our deep concern about any potential impact on the ability of this and other American universities to engage in teaching and research of the highest quality," she wrote.
Philadelphia is preparing for a battle against both the state and federal governments as Republican lawmakers reaffirmed their collective stand against sanctuary cities.

On Thursday, Pennsylvania Republican Rep. Martina White asked House members to support a new bill that would punish cities from declaring sanctuary status. Her memo echoed earlier attempts to pass HB 1885, which failed to pass in the state legislature last year.

It is an insult to the citizens of Philadelphia that Mayor Kenney would willfully disobey federal law and continue to ignore the negative impact his dangerous policy has had on our citizens, White said in a statement.

Meanwhile, protesters in Philadelphia on Friday greeted GOP lawmakers at 30th Street Station as they left the city following their two-day retreat at the Loews Hotel in Center City.



Signs reading "Humans Aren't Illegal" and "Bye We Won't Miss You" greeted Republicans at the train station.

Paula Meninato was among the demonstrators. She carried a Dismantle ICE sign, alluding to the ongoing battle between President Donald Trumps administration and Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney. The Democratic city leader defied Trump this week by continuing to declare Philadelphia a sanctuary city.

Im really proud of our mayor for taking a stand against Trump and against his bigotry, Meninato said. Im also really proud of Philly for holding its ground and saying ... immigrant rights are important.

NBC10 - John Panfile

Kenney signed an executive order in 2016 declaring the city a sanctuary for immigrants. It states that city authorities will not cooperate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detainer requests for undocumented citizens who are arrested and would have otherwise been released from custody, unless the individual has committed a first or second degree felony involving violence, according to the mayors office website.



Later that same year, White introduced HB 1885, which would hold any municipality that has deemed themselves as a sanctuary municipality liable for damages to persons or property as a result of criminal activity by undocumented immigrants.



The bill passed in the House, but failed to come to a complete vote before the state legislature concluded the 2016 session.



Undeterred, Kenney issued an open letter this week extolling the benefits of immigration and reiterating his pledge to welcome all new residents.



Philadelphia is strong because we embrace our diversity and respect our differences. We do not choose between economic growth and helping those in poverty. We do not create a false choice between public safety and treating all people with dignity and respect. And we welcome all - no matter race, creed or country of origin - to contribute to our city and our democracy, he wrote.



Philadelphia stands to lose millions of dollars in federal funding if Trump makes good on his executive order to withhold funds from municipalities that defy his wishes.

In 2015, Philadelphia received $408 million in funds, the mayor's office said. Some of this funding is mandated by law and requires Congress' approval to be changed.

There are more than 300 sanctuary municipalities in the United States, including cities such as New York City, Chicago, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Austin and Boston.



This is the two sides of immigration that I think are so important - one is the rule of law. Two is compassion for people and families, said Rep. Tom MacArthur (R-NJ.) That's going to be the challenge for us.



Rep. Dwight Evans, a Democrat from Philadelphia, suggested that if the president wants to challenge cities individually or change the rule of law, he should take it up with lawmakers instead of issuing executive orders.



The president is not the king or dictator, he said. If you want to change the immigration laws, you should come to the United States Congress.



To that end, Evans speculated that Trump's executive order could end up in court. Already the American Civil Liberties Union is preparing for that eventuality.



The executive orders signed this week by President Trump are legally flawed and are in deep contrast to our fundamental values as Americans, said Reggie T. Shuford, executive director for the ACLU of Pennsylvania.



Trumps executive order on so-called sanctuary cities doesnt even bother to define the term. Local governments throughout Pennsylvania and around the country have chosen not to hold people in jail at the request of Immigration and Customs Enforcement unless that request is accompanied by a warrant, which is a reasonable stance based on constitutional principles.



On the other side of the aisle, Republican lawmakers pointed to the responsibility of cities to uphold the law.



Im not comfortable with municipalities ... that will tell their law enforcement not to collaborate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Rep. Charlie Dent (R-Pa.) said, adding that he would be comfortable with the federal government withholding community development block grant funding from sanctuary cities, such as Philadelphia.
UPDATE: Family members of the six Syrians spoke with Governor Tom Wolf Sunday afternoon. Details HERE.

Two Syrian families who arrived at Philadelphia International Airport Saturday morning from Doha, Qatar, were briefly detained and then sent back on a return 18-hour flight to the Middle East, according to a family member from Allentown, Pennsylvania.

The families, made of up two brothers, their wives and two children, were detained by Customs and Border Protection officials after disembarking a Qatar Airways flight at 7:25 a.m., according to Joseph Assali, of Allentown.

Three hours later, the six were put back on a Qatar Airways flight to Doha, Assali said.

"This is like a nightmare come true," he said, adding that they had visas and green cards legally obtained months ago.

"They're all Christian citizens and the executive order was supposed to protect Christians fleeing persecution," he said.

The families were detained and deported through an executive order signed Friday evening by President Donald Trump that immediately put restrictions on travel from seven predominantly Muslim countries and temporarily halted a refugee program for Syrian immigrants.

An immigration lawyer tried to obtain more information from federal officials at the airport, Assali said, but it appeared too late. Officials would not discuss any details with Assali's family, who all live in the Allentown area.

"We don't know what exactly is happening," he said before finding out they were back in the air headed to Qatar. "We can't contact them."

He said the two families, who are from Damascus, hoped to use their time in America to obtain citizenship.

"They came as legal immigrants and were going to try sorting things out while they're here," Assali said.

Messages left for airport officials as well as Customs and Border Protection and Homeland Security were not returned Saturday morning or early afternoon.

Trump said in signing the order that he pledged to "keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America." He did, however, declare that Christians in Syria and other restricted-status counties would be given preference.

Syria was the only country he named Friday, but the order suspended entry for 90 days from countries linked to a statute in the Visa Waiver Program. Besides Syria, those countries are: Iraq, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen.

Two Iraqis were detained at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York City earlier Saturday as well, but reports indicated that the two men were able to secure legal representation before Customs agents deported them. One of the men has been released.

Within hours, pro-immigrant demonstrations erupted at the airport.

An attorney with the ACLU of Pennsylvania told NBC10 that she was reaching out to the Assali family to get more details.

The attorney, Molly Tack-Hooper, said her organization would try to file a writ of habeas corpus on the detained family's behalf. The writ would require authorities to bring the detainees before a judge before deportation.

Upon learning that federal authorities may have already deported the families, she said she would still reach out to the Assali family in Allentown.

"It's fuzzy what we could do if they're already on a flight back to Qatar," she said.

Hooper also told NBC10 the ACLU was working with the HIAS and other civil rights attorneys to try and help at least five other immigrants who are currently being detained at Philly International Airport.

Late Saturday night, hours after Assali's family left Philadelphia, a federal judge granted an injunction in response to a request filed by the American Civil Liberties Union and other legal organizations on behalf of individuals subject to President Trump's ban.

The stay blocks anyone with a valid visa being held at airports from being deported. However, the stay only applies to those currently within the U.S., but not to anyone who tries to come to the U.S. going forward. It also does not mean detainees will be released, only that they can't be deported, according to ACLU attorneys.

Joseph Assali told NBC10 his family members are still on their flight and unaware of the injunction being granted. He said he's been advised to let them know as soon as they land and to urge them to try and fly back to the United States as soon as possible.

Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf, Mayor Jim Kenney, U.S. Rep Bob Brady and Senator Bob Casey joined 150 protesters at the airport Saturday night to intervene on behalf of the detained immigrants.

Wolf and Kenney also reacted to the news Saturday.

"By several accounts, these families waited months to obtain the proper documentation so they could come to our country legally," Kenney said in a released statement. "And still, they were sent back to a war-torn nation that has used chemical warfare against its own people. The Trump administration very well may have just given these families a death sentence."

Around 1600 people are expected to gather at Philly International Airport Sunday for a second protest starting at 2 p.m.

[NATL] Trump Immigration Order Triggers Protests Across US
A day ahead of President Donald Trump's weekend call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, the fight within the Republican Party over the direction of U.S. policy toward Moscow intensified.

Trump, who has said he wants a better relationship with Russia, was noncommittal on Friday about whether he was considering lifting U.S. sanctions against the former Soviet state, telling reporters at a news conference, "We'll see what happens. As far as the sanctions, very early to be talking about that."

But two top Senate Republicans  John McCain, the chairman of the Armed Services Committee, and Rob Portman, a member of the Foreign Relations Committee  warned the White House about easing any punishments on Moscow and vowed to turn the sanctions into law.

"I hope President Trump will put an end to this speculation and reject such a reckless course," McCain said in a statement. "If he does not, I will work with my colleagues to codify sanctions against Russia into law."

Portman said lifting the sanctions "for any reason other than a change in the behavior that led to those sanctions in the first place would send a dangerous message to a world already questioning the value of American leadership and the credibility of our commitments after eight years of Obama administration policies."

U.S. intelligence officials have concluded that Moscow meddled in the 2016 election to help Trump become president.

Obama in late December ordered sanctions on Russian spy agencies, closed two Russian compounds and expelled 35 diplomats the U.S. said were really spies. The new penalties add to existing U.S. sanctions over Russia's actions in Ukraine, which have damaged Russia's economy but had only limited impact on Putin's behavior.

In 2014, Russia annexed Crimea in Ukraine, drawing widespread condemnation in Europe and the United States and a raft of penalties.

Relations are also tense over Putin's backing of Syrian President Bashar Assad and allegations of Russian meddling in the U.S. elections.

For his part, McCain has emerged as a frequent critic of Trump among Capitol Hill Republicans. He takes a dim view of trying to reset relations with Moscow and says Trump should remember that Putin is "a murderer and a thug who seeks to undermine American national security interests at every turn."

"For our commander-in-chief to think otherwise would be naive and dangerous," McCain said.

McCain and Portman are part of a bipartisan group of senators who have introduced sweeping legislation designed to go beyond the punishments against Russia already levied by Obama and to demonstrate to Trump that forcefully responding to Moscow's meddling isn't a partisan issue.

The bill would impose mandatory visa bans and freeze the financial assets of anyone who carries out cyberattacks against public or private computer systems and democratic institutions.

The legislation also mandates sanctions in Russia's all-important energy sector and on investments in the development of civil nuclear projects to rebuke Moscow for its provocations in eastern Ukraine and military support for Syrian President Bashar Assad.
Gov. Tom Wolf's administration notified state officials and employees Friday afternoon that he wants to consolidate four state agencies into a single department as the first-term Democratic governor deals with a massive budget deficit and a Republican-controlled Legislature averse to raising taxes.

The move  merging the departments of Human Services, Health, Aging and Drug and Alcohol Programs into one Department of Health and Human Services  would require approval from the Legislature.

The details on the move were scant on Friday, in terms of how much money it would save and how many employees might lose their jobs. Wolf's office said it would provide more information Monday.

State employees were notified in an email Friday afternoon from the top officials in each of the four agencies. In it, they said they had worked to identify "operational silos" and program duplication among agencies and rethink how services are delivered to millions of people.

Consolidation, they wrote, would "dramatically improve our ability to deliver services that will improve lives."

The agencies have a wide range of responsibilities, including administering the state's $20-plus billion Medicaid program, distributing aid to programs for the disabled, developing policy to fight the state's drug addiction crisis and inspecting nursing homes and hospitals.

House Human Services Committee Chairman Gene DiGirolamo, R-Bucks, said he was willing to listen to the details. But he also said he was unhappy about elements of it, seven years after legislation he authored had created the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs because he felt it was buried too deep in the bureaucracy of another agency to adequately respond to the growing addiction crisis.

"You've got to show me why you're doing this," DiGirolamo said. "Are you going to save money? Is there duplication from one department to the other? Are you going to create efficiencies? Put it on paper and show me why. Just doing it for the sake of doing it is not a good idea."

The Legislature's huge Republican majorities have rebuffed Wolf's efforts the past two years to wipe out Pennsylvania's persistent post-recession deficit with a broad tax increase, preferring one-time stopgaps.

In December, Wolf vowed to produce a balanced budget plan that instead relies heavily on cuts and savings measures. He is scheduled to deliver his new budget plan to the Legislature on Feb. 7.

Legislative budget analysts say consolidating agencies may mean some savings or help the state qualify for more federal program aid. But it will not put much of a dent in the nearly $3 billion projected budget gap the state is facing, they say.

A move to consolidate the four agencies had been rumored in the Capitol in recent days. The agencies house some similar or shared programs, including funding long-term care services for the elderly and behavioral health treatment.

Estelle Richman, who spent seven years as secretary of what is now named the Department of Human Services under Democratic Gov. Ed Rendell, said such a plan could save money in the long run, but improving services should be the primary motivation to do it.

Many other states operate health and human services programs as a single agency, said Joan Benso, president of the Harrisburg-based non-profit organization Pennsylvania Partnerships for Children. Previous attempts to consolidate programs within the Department of Human Services have been successful, Benso said.

Consolidation may take more than a year, she said.
Its no secret that Pearl Jams Eddie Vedder is one of San Diegos most successful musical exports ever. Sure, he might have been born in Chicago, but he and his family moved to San Diego when he was a pre-teen. In fact, when his mother and brothers moved back to Chicago, he decided to stay in San Diego with his stepfather because he didnt want to change high schools (he was attending San Dieguito at the time).

Even though he was forced to drop out of high school and move back to Chicago during his senior year, he returned to San Diego in 1984 with his girlfriend. Its here that things really took off for him as he made more and more connections in the Southern California music scene that eventually extended to Seattle where he would form Pearl Jam.

So, yes, Vedder is positively San Diegan, and thats why its such a source of pride for us at SoundDiego when news like this comes out: Pearl Jam will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame by none other than Neil Young.

Yesterday, the Cleveland, Ohio-based organization announced a list of presenters, which includes Jackson Browne and Rushs Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson. But, according to Consequence of Sound, Youngs induction of Vedder tops that list.

And to think -- just 30 years ago, Vedder was a security guard patrolling La Valencia Hotel in La Jolla, and less than a decade before that he was working nights at a drugstore in Encinitas while trying to support himself through high school.

On behalf of all San Diegans, thank you Neil Young and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for penning the next chapter of Vedder's fairy tale.

Pearl Jam's induction, which will eventually air on HBO, takes place on April 7 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. Tickets, which start at $50, go on sale for everyone on Feb. 3.

Rutger Rosenborg was almost a Stanford neuroscientist before he formed Ed Ghost Tucker. He now plays in the Lulls and makes music on his own when he's not writing. Follow his updates on Facebook or contact him directly.
Adrienne Esposito, right, and Maureen Murphy, of the Citizens Campaign for the Environment, applaud a vote by the Long Island Power Authority at its meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2017, in Uniondale, N.Y. LIPA approved a contract with Deepwater Wind to construct a 15-turbine offshore wind project about 30 miles east of Montauk, N.Y. Environmentalists and others see the project as another step toward expanding offshore wind energy in the United States. (AP Photo/Frank Eltman)

UNIONDALE, N.Y. (AP) -- Environmentalists, union officials and others popped champagne Wednesday after a New York utility approved plans for a modest wind energy farm off the east coast of Long Island.

The project won't generate much power  just 90 megawatts from 15 turbines when it opens in 2022  but supporters hope it will help prove the feasibility of larger offshore wind farms.

"By taking this first step and committing New York to move forward with enough offshore wind power to light 1.25 million homes by 2030, Gov. Cuomo has positioned New York state to be the leader in realizing the infrastructure, jobs and economic development benefits of the emerging U.S. offshore wind industry," said Kit Kennedy of the Natural Resources Defense Council.

While Europe has been generating offshore wind energy for decades, the first offshore wind energy project in the United States opened late last year. Five turbines south of Rhode Island are generating enough energy for 17,000 homes. The Long Island project approved Wednesday would be three times larger, but there are ambitious plans for projects that would dwarf the first two.

The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, which has jurisdiction over offshore wind energy projects in federal waters, has auctioned several large tracts of the Atlantic Ocean for wind energy development including a 79,000-acre area southeast of New York City where as many as 194 turbines could be built. Another auction is scheduled for March for 122,000 acres off the North Carolina coast.

The builders of the Rhode Island project that opened last month, Deepwater Wind, were awarded the contract for the wind farm approved Wednesday by the Long Island Power Authority. Deepwater Wind CEO Jeff Grybowski said the cost of the new project is $740 million.

"There is a huge clean energy resource blowing off of our coastline just over the horizon, and it is time to tap into this unlimited resource to power our communities," Grybowski said.

Story continues

Cuomo says New York is committed to developing up to 2,400 megawatts of offshore wind power by the end of the next decade. That's enough power for 1.25 million homes.

Long Island Power Authority CEO Thomas Falcone said improvements in technology allow utilities to build wind power projects farther from the coast, which eliminates complaints about eyesores, and the efficiency of the turbines being built is continually improving the energy generating capacity.

"The most exciting thing is it's a gateway project," Falcone told authority trustees before their unanimous vote. "It's the first step. It is our first project. It is the first project for New York, it's the largest project to date, but it's not our last project and it will not be the largest project."

___

Follow Eltman on Twitter at @feltman41
People calling 911 emergency systems excessively, some over 100 times a year, cost taxpayers money and clogs the emergency system.

In San Diego a pilot program that would reduce the use of the system by these "frequent flyers" has been tested for the last two years. The goal of the pilot program is to reduce the call load for the 911 system and help "frequent flyers" land services which can help them. It's one of several different programs being tested across California to see if the role of a paramedic can be expanded.

Its being called the community paramedic program, also known as mobile integrated health. Supporters of the program say California is often considered on the cutting edge for health care issues but not necessarily in the use of all the resources available.

That is why, California Emergency Medical Services Director, Doctor Howard Backer says he pushed for the community paramedic program to receive an exemption from the state. According to California state law, paramedics are only allowed to treat at the emergency scene and during transport. Backer pushed and obtained the exemption in order to allow for the paramedics role in non-911 settings to be expanded.

He said, the state has to "utilize our existing workforce, our paramedic workforce, to fill gaps in our health care system.

His department has oversight of the test program at the state level and tracks what local agencies are implementing.

Similar programs have been launched and are ongoing in 33 other states, including Texas and Colorado, which are considered leaders in the effort to expand the role of paramedics.

NBC 7 Investigates trailed along with a community paramedic team who recently made a house call, visiting a once frequent user of the 911 call system.

"I was having problems with my heart, my lungs, my kidney, Robin Harris said.

She was once calling 911 as often as eight times a month. But, those calls have stopped. Harris was paired with community paramedics Shawn Percival and Loretta Contreas. The paramedic pair drop by Harris small apartment to monitor her as needed.

While on duty both paramedics face a wide range of health care issues they work to find solutions for. Percival, a military veteran himself, focuses on veterans issues. Contreras handles elderly and primary care patients. The pair, back each other up, help each other take notes and confer on different problems they encounter. They said its about earning a patient's trust.

"I call her with my little problems, my little emergencies, Harris said. [Contreras] always seems to know what to do to help me.

Harris is not alone.

We have about 1,200-1,300 people in San Diego that call 911 a lot," Anne Jensen with the City of San Diego Fire Department said. Some call six times a year, others call more than 100 times a year."

Jensen oversees the community paramedic program for San Diego Fire. "We start with the most frequent callers, we consider them the most vulnerable, she said.

The department began tracking who was making the most calls to see if some personal intervention, on the part of a community paramedic team, might help resolve any long-running problems by the callers.

Data provided to NBC 7 Investigates shows there was a 72.7 percent drop in usage by the top 25 heaviest users of the system.

The evaluation of the numerous pilot programs launched in California was completed by a team at the University of California at San Fransisco this week. The review found specially trained paramedics can provide services which can improve patients well being resulting in decreasing healthcare costs.

Click here to read the report.

The programs show "great promise, Dr. Backer said. "Especially for vulnerable people with fragmented or non-existent care."

Other programs being tested and tracked include one for Glendale and San Bernardino which attempts to reduce the number of re-admissions to emergency rooms and hospitals by having paramedics do short term follow-ups with the patients. Another program in Ventura has paramedics monitoring TB patients to make sure they follow the treatment protocols for the disease. In The Carlsbad Fire Department offers 911 callers with a low acuity medical condition transportation to urgent care centers instead of an emergency department

The programs require additional training and in San Diego has been designated for veteran paramedics, with experience. In San Diego, private paramedic companies pick up the costs for the additional training with other funding coming from the California Healthcare Foundation.

The programs do not come without opposition. Some stakeholders in the health care system, like the California Nurses Association, is opposed to expanding the role of paramedics.

In a statement to NBC 7 Investigates, Donald Nielsen, Director of Government Relations for the CNA said, while the proponents of this project argue for some limited, short-term financial benefits, these savings come at the cost of fragments the healthcare system which enriching private, for-profit ambulance companies and the unnecessary endangerment of patients."

A spokesperson for the California State Council, Emergency Nurses Association told NBC 7 Investigates they do not oppose community paramedic programs.

Click here to read Nielsens and the State Council, Emergency Nurses Association statements.
San Diegos Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers identified and arrested a man wanted for a 2005 National City homicide.

On Jan. 25, Mexican officials escorted Jorge Ibarra, 30, to the San Ysidro pedestrian border crossing.

CBP ran his fingerprints and discovered Ibarra was the subject of an outstanding warrant for homicide.

The San Diego County Sherriffs Department issued the warrant, with bail set at $1 million.

Ibarra was booked into the San Diego Central Jail. His arraignment is scheduled for Feb. 2.
Eater San Diego shares the top stories of the week from San Diegos food and drink scene, including word on a Portland coffee roaster's entry into San Diego, plus a look at some fresh, new restaurants planned for Westfield UTC.

Portland's Coava Coffee Roasters Sets Sights on San Diego

Coava Coffee Roasters, a popular craft coffee brand from Portland, will open its first location outside of the Pacific Northwest -- this time, in downtown San Diego. Landing in April in The Westin San Diego, the coffee bar will also offer beer, wine, and food.

Westfield UTC Adds Major New Restaurant Tenants

Joining big-name brand Shake Shack this fall at the redeveloped Westfield UTC complex will be a slew of high-profile eateries including dumpling palace Din Tai Fung, True Food Kitchen and another outpost of upscale diner Great Maple.

SoCal Seafood Concept Slapfish Planning Local Expansion

Slapfish, a popular fast-casual eatery with a seafood-focused menu ranging from fish tacos to lobster rolls announced its intent to open five locations in the San Diego area, with the first aiming to open by this summer. This chain has been called the "Chipotle of seafood."

Great San Diego Restaurants With Equally Good Cocktails

Many local restaurants have been stepping up their drink programs, enlisting talented bartenders to create progressive cocktail lists to pair with seasonal menus. Eater's guide showcases restaurants that are worthy of a visit for their drinks as much as their food.

Sammy's Woodfired Pizza Reopens in La Jolla

The Pearl Street eatery has reopened more than year after a kitchen fire forced it to shutter. The location is the first-ever Sammy's Woodfired Pizza & Grill, originally opening in 1989. A grand opening celebration is scheduled for Monday, January 30.

Candice Woo is the founding editor of Eater San Diego, a leading source for news about San Diegos restaurant and bar scene. Keep up with the latest Eater San Diego content via Facebook or Twitter, and sign up for Eater San Diegos newsletter here.


The search for a suspect in a home invasion and attempted robbery in Carlsbad ended Friday evening after authorities extensively combed the area, using K-9 units and a police chopper.

According to the Carlsbad Police Department, a man entered the victims house and tied her up. When the woman escaped, the suspect ran away from the home.

The incident occurred at 2:14 p.m. on the 4600 block of Park Drive.

A neighbor heard the victim screaming and tackled the suspect when he was attempting to run away.

Police said the suspect eventually escaped. The neighbor then chased the suspect to the area of Cove and Park Drives.

NBC 7 spoke to a neighbor who said he knows the neighbor who jumped in to help, describing him as someone who everyone knows.

You can trust him with anybody down here," Tony Brown said.

Brown said he is not worried about his neighborhood being unsafe, adding that it was a random incident.

But he said they would take precautions.

Its good to know people around are willing to help the people that need help," he said.

The San Diego County Sheriffs Department K-9 unit and a chopper searched the area for approximately two hours.

During the search, Carlsbad police encouraged neighbors to stay inside.

Helicopter is helping us search for a robbery suspect in the area of Park and Cove. More...  Carlsbad Police (@CarlsbadPolice) January 27, 2017

According to a tweet by the police department, they were unable to find the suspect in the area and believed he had left the area.

The suspect is described to be a man in his late 30s or early 40s, wearing a ski mask and dark clothing.
After the White House on Thursday floated the possibility of a 20-percent tax on imports from Mexico, the Internet went into hysteria over what that meant for avocado prices and availability.

It makes sense. Experts say 85 percent of Americas supply of avocados comes from Mexico, with the remaining bounty being grown in California.

Its still way too soon to know whether President Donald Trump would, in fact, impose a tax for Mexico imports to pay for a southern border wall.

But many consumers and local growers, like Bob Lucy of Fallbrooks Del Ray Avocado Company, are watching any developments with rapt attention.

He said if Mexican avocados become more expensive with an import tax, local growers could reap the rewards and take over more of the market.

If someone is being penalized, somebody is usually being rewarded in the supply curve  the supply and demand curve, he said.

Last winter, local growers sold avocados for about 60 cents a pound as Mexico had overharvested its crops.

But by October, with supply south of the border dwindling and an ensuing labor dispute, local growers were able to sell avocados for $2 a pound.

While that could be a boon for local growers, American buyers of avocados could see the expensive effects.

A report by CNN Money shows that imposing an import tax would likely result in those incoming goods becoming more expensive.

"The notion that a 20 percent tariff is a way of forcing Mexico to pay for the wall, it's just a falsehood. It's a way of forcing American consumers to pay for the wall," Edward Alden, a trade expert at the Council on Foreign Relations, told CNN.
A Northern California city has become the first in the San Francisco Bay Area to ban the flag of the communist Socialist Republic of Vietnam, NBC News reported.

The San Jose City Council on Tuesday voted unanimously to ban the flag  a yellow star on a red background  from being displayed on city flagpoles, following in the footsteps of the Southern California city of Westminster, which adopted a similar resolution to ban the flag in December last year.

San Jose City Councilman Tam Nguyen, who fled Vietnam when he was 19 and who had witnessed some of the horrors of the Vietnam War, said he introduced the resolution because he felt the city shouldn't spend money and resources to fly the flag. He called it a "symbol of tyranny, oppression, and dictatorship."

"The [Vietnamese] community in San Jose escaped that flag and we just want to live in peace without being reminded of the painful past," he told NBC News in an email.
Three people found dead inside a home in McLean, Virginia, on Friday died in a double murder-suicide, police said.

The bodies were found Friday in a house on the 1300 block of Windy Hill Road.

On Saturday, police identified those killed as Shirley Zhou, 48, James Wenjie Chen, 16, and Hong Chen, 52.

Fairfax County police believe Hong Chen fatally shot Zhou, his wife, and James Chen, his son. Police are continuing to investigate and said autopsies will be done to determine the victims' exact cause and manner of death.

Friday, a family member had attempted to contact the family and visited the house when he or she was unable to make contact, a Fairfax County police representative said.

The family member saw a body through a window of the home and called for help. Police responded and discovered the bodies inside.

Police are asking anyone with information to call Detective Spooner at (703) 246-7800, or contact Crime Solvers by visiting http://www.fairfaxcrimesolvers.org or text-a-tip by texting TIP187 plus your message to CRIMES(274637). Tips can also be submitted by calling 1-866-411-TIPS(8477), or call Fairfax County Police at (703) 691-2131.
The Cincinnati Zoo said a prematurely born baby hippo is making progress toward standing on her own.

The zoo said the calf born early Tuesday is starting to support her weight for a few seconds at a time.

Zoo spokeswoman Michelle Curley said the hippo has gained almost 4 pounds since birth but is still about 20 pounds under the low end of a normal birth weight of 55 to 120 pounds for a Nile hippo.

Curley said the hippo continues to receive 24-hour-a-day care, including exercises to help strengthen her muscles.

The zoo said 17-year-old Bibi gave birth six weeks early to the first Nile hippo born there in 75 years.

[NATL] Adorable Zoo Babies: White Lion Cubs Nala and Simba Born in France
D.C. police are searching for a man they said kidnapped another man in Georgetown and forced him to withdraw money from ATMs and buy big-ticket items at retail stores in D.C. and Maryland.

About 3:20 p.m. Thursday, the victim, a Georgetown University student, was walking in the 3400 block of O Street, Northwest, when a man approached him, asking him for money, police said. Before the student could answer, the man grabbed him and forced him into a vehicle.

The man then drove the victim to multiple ATMs along Wisconsin Avenue between Tenleytown and Friendship Heights and tried to force the victim to withdraw money. The man also tried to make at least two large purchases at stores along the same route.

Police released a video on Friday that showed the man in what appears to be a jewelry store. The video also showed the man's vehicle, a light gray or silver SUV or crossover style vehicle.

The man released the victim after none of the transactions went through, police said.

Police said the kidnapper is described as a white man in his late 30s to 40s. He is about 5 feet 9 inches to 6 feet tall, with a medium build, dark colored hair, a dark colored mustache and beard. He was last seen wearing a black suit, black shirt, gray neck tie and black shoes.

Two former secretaries of state, John Kerry and Madeline Albright, live near the block where the alleged kidnapping happened.

Weve always felt pretty safe around here, said resident Maggie Nemecz. Our neighbor right here was John Kerry, so there was lots of Secret Service, but now that hes not there anymore, it might be a little different."

Despite being troubled by the crime, there are still residents who feel safe in the area.

Ive lived here for five years, and Ive always felt safe, said resident Marina Paul. Obviously when you live in a city, youre always on the lookout.

Police are asking anyone who can identify the man to call police at (202) 727-9099 or text a tip to the department's text tip line at 50411.
FINEST KIND CLINIC AND FISHMARKET.... Discussing medicine, culture, and the joys of cooking Pansit.
The owner of a knitting shop in Loudoun County, Virginia, is pushing back against the threat of a boycott of her store related to President Donald Trump.

Finch Knitting + Sewing Studio in Leesburg received an email this week saying the business may be added to a "guide" on local businesses believed to be hostile to Trump supporters.

Finch owner Nicole Morganthau said the store is open to anyone, regardless of their politics or background. "You belong here!" a sign outside the shop says.

The trouble began Thursday, when Morganthau received an email with the subject line "Are you an anti-election establishment?"

"We are compiling a list of local Leesburg businesses that are openly hostile to customers who voted for Donald Trump," the email said. "Before we publish, we'd like to give the opportunity to refute tips we've received."

The email then cited the apparent tip: "The owner of Finch has posted several very hostile Facebook posts related to the election of Trump."

Morganthau said she perceived the email as a threat.

"They were accusing me of tirades against the president," she said.

She wrote back right away and asked on what the allegation was based.

The following day, she posted a response on Facebook.

"We are not and never have been hostile toward any human being who wishes to step foot in the front door of Finch. As a matter of fact, the very groundwork of Finch has always been to be a place of inclusiveness," the post said.

Morganthau's Facebook post was shared more than 300 times, and the local newspaper, The Loudoun Times-Mirror, covered the story. Then, customers began to stop by with cookies and flowers.

Morganthau said she thinks she knows what prompted the accusation. The day before Inauguration Day, she posted a message on Facebook inviting customers to stock up on pink yarn. Many people used pink yarn to knit "pussy hats" to wear at the Women's March on Washington in order to critique Trump's comments about women's bodies.

Morganthau also wrote on the store's Facebook page that she attended the march. The small businessowner said she hopes her quick response quieted the threat.

"We are a unified group of people, and we aren't going to stand for that kind of bullying," she said.

In Tennessee, a knitting shop sparked praise and criticism by asking people who want yarn for "any project for the women's movement" to shop elsewhere.

"The vulgarity, vile and evilness of this movement is absolutely despicable," The Joy of Knitting in Franklin, Tennessee, posted to their Facebook page after the Women's March, The Tennessean reported.

Run inside a historic building in downtown Leesburg, Finch sells "modern" sewing and knitting supplies and hosts classes.

Down the street from the knitting shop, the owner of an upscale pawn shop said she is an ardent Trump supporter but thought the email threat was wrong.

"I think somebody doing that and targeting somebody, I think that's a little bit over the edge," Lynn Lake said.
Police are asking for the public's help to identify a woman accused of setting another woman's hair on fire on Inauguration Day.

The suspect went up to the woman in the 700 block of Pennsylvania Ave. NW and used a lighter to set her hair on fire about 2 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 20, D.C. police said. The victim was not injured.

Police released a picture of the suspect on Saturday and are asking anyone who has information to call (202) 727-9099 or text 50411.
Confusion, worry and outrage grew Saturday as President Donald Trump's crackdown on refugees and citizens from seven majority-Muslim countries took effect. Airlines blocked people traveling to the United States, legal challenges were underway and doubts abounded about whether the order would make America safer.

The immediate fallout from Trump's order meant that an untold number of foreign-born U.S. residents now traveling outside the U.S. could be stuck overseas for at least 90 days  despite holding permanent residency "green cards" or other visas. And some foreign nationals who were allowed to board flights before the order was signed Friday were being detained at U.S. airports, told they were no longer welcome.

Trump billed his sweeping executive order as a necessary step to stop "radical Islamic terrorists" from coming to the U.S. Included is a 90-day ban on travel to the U.S. by citizens of Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia or Yemen and a 120-day suspension of the U.S. refugee program.

Trump's order singled out Syrians for the most aggressive ban, indefinitely blocking entry for anyone from that country, including those fleeing civil war.

The directive did not do anything to prevent attacks from homegrown extremists who were already in America, a primary concern of federal law enforcement officials. It also omitted Saudi Arabia, home to most of the Sept. 11 hijackers.

As a candidate Trump pledged to temporarily ban Muslims from coming to the U.S., then said he would implement "extreme vetting" for people from countries with significant terror concerns.

Trump told reporters Saturday the order is "not a Muslim ban."

"It's working out very nicely," Trump said of the implementation of his order. "We're going to have a very, very strict ban and we're going to have extreme vetting, which we should have had in this country for many years."

The order drew criticism from U.S. lawmakers and officials around the globe.

Sen. Ben Sasse, a Nebraska Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, said while Trump is right to focus on border security, the order is "too broad."

"If we send a signal to the Middle East that the U.S. sees all Muslims as jihadis, the terrorist recruiters win by telling kids that America is banning Muslims and that this is America versus one religion," Sasse said. "Our generational fight against jihadism requires wisdom."

In Tehran, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Iran would stop issuing new visas to U.S. citizens in response to Trump's ban, but that anyone already with a visa to Iran wouldn't be turned away.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau took to Twitter Saturday afternoon to say that refugees were welcome in Canada, "regardless of your faith."

Two of the first people blocked from entering the United States were Iraqis with links to the U.S. military.

Hameed Khalid Darweesh and Haider Sameer Abdulkhaleq Alshawi were detained by immigration officials after landing at New York's Kennedy airport Friday night. Darweesh had worked as an interpreter for the U.S. Army when it invaded Iraq in 2003. Later he worked as a contract engineer. He was allowed into the U.S. Saturday afternoon, hours after his attorney petitioned a federal court to let the two men go.

In their court filing, his lawyers said Alshawai's wife had worked for a U.S. security contractor in Iraq. Members of her family had been killed by insurgents because of their association with the U.S. military.

The government can exempt foreign nationals from the ban if their entry is deemed in the national interest. But it was not immediately clear how that exemption might be applied.

Diplomats from the seven countries singled out by Trump's order would still be allowed into the U.S.

Those already in the U.S. with a visa or green card would be allowed to stay, according to the official, who wasn't authorized to publicly discuss the details of how Trump's order was being put in place and spoke only on condition of anonymity.

Trump's order also directed U.S. officials to review information as needed to fully vet foreigners asking to come to the U.S. and draft a list of countries that don't provide that information. That left open the possibility that citizens of other countries could also face a travel ban.

The U.S. may still admit refugees on a case-by-case basis during the freeze, and the government would continue to process requests from people claiming religious persecution, "provided that the religion of the individual is a minority religion in the individual's country."

The Council on American-Islamic Relations said it would challenge the constitutionality of Trump's order.

"There is no evidence that refugees  the most thoroughly vetted of all people entering our nation  are a threat to national security," said Lena F. Masri, the group's national litigation director. "This is an order that is based on bigotry, not reality."

John Cohen, a former Department of Homeland Security counterterrorism official who worked under Democratic and Republican administrations, said the order didn't address America's "primary terrorism-related threat"  people already in the U.S. who become inspired by what they see on the internet.

Trump's order drew support from some Republican lawmakers who have urged more security measures for the refugee vetting program, particularly for those from Syria.

"We are a compassionate nation and a country of immigrants. But as we know, terrorists are dead set on using our immigration and refugee programs as a Trojan Horse to attack us," House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Michael McCaul said in a statement Friday. "With the stroke of a pen, he is doing more to shut down terrorist pathways into this country than the last administration did in eight years."

It is unclear how many people would be immediately impacted by the non-refugee travel ban. According to the statistics maintained by the Homeland Security Department, about 17,000 students from the seven designated countries were allowed into the U.S. for the 2015-2016 school year. In 2015 more than 86,000 people from those countries arrived in the U.S. on other, non-immigrant visas and more than 52,000 others became legal permanent residents.

Last year the U.S. resettled 85,000 people displaced by war, political oppression, hunger and religious prejudice, including more than 12,000 Syrians. Before leaving office President Barack Obama announced that the U.S. would accept 110,000 refugees in the coming year, but Trump's order cut that by more than half to 50,000.

No refugees were in the air when the travel ban was signed Friday, but about 350 people were in transit in Nairobi, Kenya, and were now stuck there, said Melanie Nezer, vice president of policy and advocacy for HIAS, a refugee resettlement aid agency. She said several hundred more people who were booked on U.S.-bound flights in the next week were now stranded around the globe.

"This in effect could be a permanent ban," she said. "Many of these people may never be able to come."
Jonathan Baptista is furious after finding everything in his storage unit stolen in Holliston, Massachusetts.

"Two cars were missing," he said. "A race car, a very nice, hooked-up street performance vehicle."

The last time he visited the Hyperspace storage was in November. But when he went to check on his belongs last week, the cars, his jewelry, Michael Jordan sneakers and a motorcycle had vanished.

"When I opened the shed to the thing. It was like a feeling of I have nothing," he said. "I have to start all over again. I've been working since 14 building these cars up, saving and collecting these Jordans. Standing in line."

Baptista fears he won't see his property again  and the owners of Hydrospace aren't looking to reimburse him because his storage wasn't insured.

"It's a nice neighborhood," Baptista said. "The crime rate is low."

The owner of the Hyperspace Storage Company declined to comment. Holliston police say they are still investigating the incident.
President Donald Trump's executive order on immigration was being felt across the country on Saturday, including in Boston, where some were denied entry and and hundreds protested the ban.

At Boston's Logan International Airport, at least six people from Iran were detained Saturday after their flights landed in the U.S. A federal judge in New York issued a temporary stay late Saturday for all detainees affected by Trump's executive orders, which barred all refugees from entering the United States for four months, and indefinitely halted any from Syria. Trump argued the ban is needed to keep out "radical Islamic terrorists."

A tweet by Samira Asgari, an Iranian doctor, stated that she was denied boarding when she arrived for her flight to the U.S. from Germany.

In a Skype interview from Switzerland, Asgari told us she had planned to come to the U.S. to start a study at Harvard Medical School analyzing tuberculosis.

"My view of America of course, doesn't change because of a decision a politician makes. My view of America changes because the land that used to be the land of those who want to be there, who want to do something good to the community and take something good from the community - that picture of America has changed for me," she said.

Several students at Massachusetts colleges also tweeted that they were being blocked from entering the country.

In a statement, MIT officials said they're "very troubled" that Trump's executive order is affecting the university's community and are exploring options for helping impacted students.

Northeastern University in a statement to their community offered support to their students, faculty and staff reminding them of "their commitment to each other."

Earlier in the day, two Iraqi men were detained at John F. Kennedy International Airport when their flights landed separately.

NBC News reported that lawyers for the two refugees filed motions in the Eastern District of New York, seeking a write of habeas corpus in an effort to get their clients released. One man has since been released.

Meanwhile, about 300 people participated in a demonstration against Trump's executive orders on immigration at Boston Logan International Airport Saturday evening, joining protests at airports across the nation.

Bahar Bhamani, unable to reach her husband hours after he landed in Boston Logan said her life had "turned into hello in two days." She waited for hours before her husband, who was visiting Iran to see his father sick with cancer, was let out of the airport. Bhamani fears he may never be able to fly home to see him again.

Among those at the protest was U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, who told the crowd they were there to make their voices against the Trump administration heard.

Mayor Marty Walsh was present at the Boston airport this evening, shortly after a federal judge granted a temporary stay for detainees affected by Trump's executive order.

The ACLU, who challenged the President's order, said there would be a Federal Court hearing later tonight. The time is still to be decided. The ACLU of Massachusetts and other civil rights groups are filing suit on behalf of the UMass professor detained at Logan today.

According to the ACLU of Massachusetts complaint, the professors "have a constitutional right to return home to the United States after a brief trip abroad, and cannot be deprived of their lawful permanent status without justification and due process protections."

Another protest against Trump's executive order is scheduled for 1 p.m. in Boston's Copley Square on Sunday.
A march and rally against President Trump's executive order on tightening immigration was held Saturday afternoon in Boston.

Dozens of people turned out for the march which started at 1 p.m. at the Chinatown Gate where protesters then headed to the Statehouse.

"They are vilifying immigrants," says Maria Sanchez of Cambridge.

Organizers said the plan was to stand up against Trump's policies, which they feel are anti-immigrant and unconstitutional.

One man from Mexico, who married an American woman, told NBC Boston that he just cancelled an upcoming vacation for fear that he would not be able to re-enter the United States.

Boston Mayor Marty Walsh went on CNN Saturday morning to express his support for those who are in danger of being deported.

"We we want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas," Walsh said.

Walsh, at the rally today, said "There really is a way to deal with immigration and have lawmakers pass legislation I think what's being threatened now doesn't make sense we have people that are fearful we have young people that were born here, they're in fear their parents will be deported." In a press release Saturday evening the Mayor said "As Americans, we must move forward together as a country proud of our diverse heritage, and find real solutions to the challenges we face."

On Friday, Trump signed an executive order that indefinitely suspends the United States' Syrian refugees program, temporarily halts all other refugee admissions and blocks immigration from some majority-Muslim countries with terrorism concerns.

The President said the actions are aimed at keeping out what he calls "radical Islamic terrorists."

Rep. Seth Moulton, who served four tours in Iraq, says he is ashamed Trump is the country's president. He says Trump's actions put U.S. troops at risk.

Sen. Edward Markey says Trump's executive order is "more about extreme xenophobia than extreme vetting."

At Saturday's rally, personal stories were told by migrants from Colombia, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Haiti, China and India. Speakers from various organizations like Standing Up for Racial Justice, International Socialist Organization, and Boston Labor Solidarity Committee were also in attendance.

"I think it's unfair to pick on the most vulnerable in our society, I think immigration is a problem but we have to have a better solution," says Jose Jorge Mendoza, a professor at UMass Lowell.

Former Green Party presidential candidate, Dr. Jill Stein, was also expected to speak on behalf of the Greater Boston Chapter of the Green Rainbow Party.

Another rally focusing on the refugee ban is scheduled for 1 p.m. Sunday in Copley Square.
Police launched a multi-agency investigation into three Glastonbury spas where prostitution is suspected, arrested one person and said they expect to make more arrests.

The East Central Narcotics Taskforce, the Center for Digital Investigations, Homeland Security, the Department of Labor and police from Glastonbury and Manchester served search warrants Thursday at the Relaxation Spa at 799 Hebron Ave., New Sunshine Reflexology at 2840 B Main St. and Pine Reflexology, at 18 School St.

Police said task force members received information that prostitution was occurring inside the local businesses and 43-year-old Guixing Jiang, 43, was charged with promoting prostitution.

Jiang is on the Secretary of the State's website as the agent for all three spas.

Police places stop work orders on all three spas.

State officials said the stop work order at Relaxation Spawas for violation of state wage laws. They said there was no worker's compensation insurance to protect the employees in the event of injury and employees were paid in cash and there were no payroll records.

Police seized Jiang's Volkswagen Passat, computers, documents and an undisclosed amount of money.

Jiang's bond was set at $50,000.

No other details were immediately available.
Three police officers are being hailed as heroes for helping to save seven people from a fire in Central Falls, Rhode Island, that is reportedly being investigated as arson.

WJAR reports the early morning fire broke out at 137 Earle Street.

Officer Yomaira Rodriguez, who first noticed the fire around 1:30 am Saturday, reportedly began a search for people in the house along with two other officers.

A total of seven people were safely rescued from the two-story house.

The Central Falls Police and Fire departments are investigating the case along with the Fire Marshal.
Today, Proctor's Ledge is just an outcropping with some trees in a residential neighborhood, but soon it will be the site of a new memorial dedicated to the haunting past of Salem, Massachusetts.

"I think it's very fitting they decided to do something after all these years," said Salem resident Tom Brophy. "We've always known about it, but nothing was ever done about it until now."

Brophy's home sits along the historic site near Gallow's Hill. It's where historians believe the accused witches of Salem were executed 325 years ago.

"It was an awful thing that happened here," said Brophy. "Awful injustice, really."

City officials announced this week that a final design for the memorial has been selected.

It will include stones with the names of the 19 people who were hanged here, all of them accused of being witches.

It was a sad time in Salem's history, according to longtime City Councillor Tom Furey, who says the memorial will allow people to pay their respects.

"It's embedded in our DNA," said Furey. "Something we have to respect and recognize we're part of that."

Descendants of the victims, along with historians and neighbors who live near the site, have all helped with the plan according to city officials.

"The whole goal is to respect and recognize the role that witch history has played in the history of Salem," said Furey.

Mayor Kim Driscoll said in a statement the memorial "presents an opportunity for us to come together as a community, recognize the injustice perpetrated against those innocents in 1692, and recommit ourselves to the values of inclusivity and justice."

It's hoped that construction on the memorial will begin in April, and that it could be completed by the summer.
Oxfam America is condemning President Donald Trump's order to temporarily suspend the nation's refugee program and indefinitely bar Syrians.

The Boston-based global relief organization says the actions are harmful and discriminatory and will deny safe refuge to thousands of people who need urgent help. It calls for Trump to rescind the order he signed Friday.

Trump has ordered a 4-month suspension of refugee admissions and would ultimately cut admissions by more than half. The order also temporarily halts immigration from some Muslim-majority countries.

Oxfam President Raymond Offenheiser says Trump is "slamming the door on innocent people in their hour of need" and breaking with four decades of bipartisan U.S. policy and more than 200 years of American tradition.

The organization says the nation's refugee resettlement program already requires rigorous screening.
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Baker is one of five Gators to turn in the program's now 10 perfect floor exercise marks. She is one of three to earn the mark on multiple occasions. Gator All-Americans Kytra Hunter and Bridget Sloan turned in the mark four times and twice, respectively.

turned in the mark four times and twice, respectively. Two 10.0s have been registered in 2017 floor competition. Michigan's Nicole Artz turned one in last Sunday and Baker joins her with tonight's 10.0 mark.

Gators set or equaled 13 collegiate-best marks Friday. Gowey led all Gators with five bests tonight  vault (9.80), bars (9.875), beam (9.925), floor (9.875) and all-around (39.475).

McMurtry takes her 15 th vault title and ups her collegiate total of event wins to 30 (15 vault, 9 bars, 6 beam).

vault title and ups her collegiate total of event wins to 30 (15 vault, 9 bars, 6 beam). Baker is now a nine-time floor winner and that title was the 20 th event win as a Gator (9 floor, 5 vault, all-around, 1 beam).

event win as a Gator (9 floor, 5 vault, all-around, 1 beam). Hundley is the first freshman to win an all-around since Alicia Boren used a 39.525 to win the 2016 Gators Link to Pink title.

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No. 3 Florida versus No. 16 Auburn - Gators Link to Pink

Final Team Totals Jan. 27, 2017  Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O'Connell Center (9,108) Team Vault Bars Beam Floor Total Florida 49.400 49.475 49.250 49.575 197.700 Auburn 49.025 49.050 49.150 49.175 196.400

GAINESVILLE, Fla.  A 10.0 by the Gators' final performer brought the near-capacity Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O'Connell Center crowd to their feet. Juniorfinishing routine on floor exercise was 10.0, helping the Florida gymnastics team to win the 11th edition of Gators Link towith a season-high total of 197.70. Auburn also had a season-best of 196.40.Friday's crowd of 9,108 is the sixth largest in program history. This event is well supported, as half of the Gators' top six crowds in school history were Link tomeets.Four different Gators picked up the apparatus wins Friday, with freshmanalso adding the all-around win. Both wins came with collegiate-bests, as her 9.95 took her first uneven bars title. She upped her best to 39.55 to also take her first all-around win.All-Americanreceived her second consecutive season-high 9.95 for vault Friday, but tonight she performed the Yurchenko double full, which has a 10.0 start value. Last Friday at North Carolina, she found perfection with the Yurchenko full (9.95 start value). McMurtry is one of just a handful of gymnasts in the nation with this high-level vault in her repertoire. She will alternate between performing the two vaults in 2017, as her scoring potential is high for either.Baker's 10.0 helped Florida tally a season-best 49.575 on floor exercise. It was her second perfect mark on the event of her career, as she was two days short of the one-year anniversary of her 10.0 against Alabama on Jan. 29, 2016.The evening's balance beam title went to freshman, as she took her first event win as a Gator with a collegiate-best 9.925. Gowey performed as an all-arounder for the second time Friday, using her top total of 39.475 to take second overall.This was the 11edition of the Gators Link tomeet. Florida honored breast cancer survivors prior to the meet and those survivors formed a tunnel to welcome the Gators to the Exactech Arena competition arena. Most of the SEC's gymnastics teams will have ameet this season, with the intention to help raise awareness about the fight against breast cancer.10.0 on floor exercise is the fourth perfect mark in a Gators Link tomeet. All-American Melanie Sinclair earned the first 10.0 on bars while wearingat the debut Gators Link to Pink in 2007. She registered a 10.0 bars mark in the 2009 edition of the meet.The next Link to10.0 was All-American Kytra Hunter's second vault perfect mark in 2014.Baker's mark tonight is the first floor exercise 10.0 in Link tocompetition.Florida (4=0, 2-0 SEC); Auburn (0-4, 0-3 SEC).Florida leads the series 73-11.On getting a 10.0 on floor:"It felt so good. It was my first meet back on floor. I stuck my first pass, and I knew I could do it, get a ten. I felt really good after the whole routine. When you go from almost falling on beam to getting a ten on floor, it's drastic. I could have felt down after beam, but I picked myself back up and wanted to do it for the team." - juniorOn's 10:"I'm pretty critical myself, but as soon as she landed her second pass, I knew right then she had an opportunity to get a 10. Her performance and her smile, it was just a perfect package."  Florida Head CoachOn her first all-around win:"I'm very excited. I wasn't expecting that, and when they called my name it was really neat. I'm happier for the team win. It's a team sport and when I make mistakes, they have my back. I was really trying to do it for the team. I enjoyed the whole experience. I'm really happy with how I did, but there is always room for improvement. I think we're only going to go up from here." - freshmanOn the Link tocrowd:"It was an amazing crowd. When they bring the energy the girls feed off of them and it's just electrifying. We had a great time on the competition floor and I really hope the audience had just as much fun as we did."  Florida Head CoachOn competing in her first Link tomeet:"It was so much more fun and energetic than I expected. I had so much fun out there, especially dedicating it to those going through breast cancer and those survivors. It was so inspiring to see them line the floor as we were running out. It was really special not only for my team but for them as well." - freshman"It was just really neat seeing all the survivors. They are so much braver and stronger than we could ever be, so going out there and competing for them was a great experience."  freshmanOn her vault:"I'm always excited to compete that double, especially at home. I was really happy with how my vault went and my landing. I'm always trying to get better, and I think that was a really great landing for me. I'll try it again next week too." - juniorOn her beam routine tonight:"It felt great. I've been working on it in the gym. I'm so calm in the gym, and I just needed to focus on bringing it over to the arena. We talked about taking my routine and putting it in my pocket. I think I did that tonight and I was so excited when I stuck that dismount." - freshmanTonight's overview:"Lots of positives. Just an overall memorable evening. We have 13 girls on the team with 13 very different personalities, each their own person. They come into the gym every day with a common goal to work together - it's just been phenomenal to see them gel together so quickly and that's really shown on the competition floor. They're having a lot of fun, they're feeding off of each other and trying to improve the little things here and there."We had some phenomenal performances tonight, we had some really great performances and some of the routines that I saw tonight, I felt like they were trying too hard a little bit to fix what we've been working on the gym, which is ok. We're going to make mistakes. This is process, it's a marathon of a season, it's not a sprint. But I'm very pleased with how the team has been building from each meet."  Florida Head CoachOn's performance tonight:"She's been working a lot in the gym on just focusing and working in the moment. That was something I challenged her on beam tonight, but on every event too. She sometimes gets ahead of herself and forgets that you've got to take it one skill at a time and one routine at a time. She did a really good job of doing that tonight. She's a super powerful athlete, but very composed. She's got a great mindset that she can just focus and hone in and shut everything off except for what she's got to do. She has that ability to get up there and do what she has to do every time."  Florida Head CoachOnandanchoring the bars lineup:"It's a great feeling (to have them anchor) as a coach, but I think even better for the team. The four in front of them just set them up to be successful. They allow them to calm down, and let them do what they do in practice. We know they're going to perform a solid routine every time."  Florida Head CoachOn the growth of the freshmen over the season so far:"We've already had four meets and just building off of each competition, seeing the freshmen get out there more, and relaxing. This was the first meet that I've seen them be able to perform to what we've been working on. [Rachel] Gowey put it perfectly when she said she put her routine in her pocket and brought it out to the competition floor and it was a beautiful performance."  Florida Head Coach Florida is No. 3 in the third Road to Nationals poll  The Tigers are No. 16 in the Road to National poll.SEC Network action against conference foes continues Friday when the Gators are at No. 5 Alabama. Meet time is set of 8:30 p.m. ET at Coleman Coliseum.Alabama was upset 195.825-195.325 Friday evening at No. 23 Arkansas.The meet airs live on the SEC Network. Bart Conner and Kathy Johnson Clarke will call the action with Laura Rutledge reporting from the sideline.
St Peter Mancroft Church Norwich Presents The Leaves of the Trees an installation by sculptor Peter Walker which provides a memorial for those who died of Covid-19

St Peter Mancroft Church Norwich Presents The Leaves of the Trees an installation by sculptor Peter Walker which provides a memorial for those who died of Covid-19

Community Chaplaincy Norfolk begins a new chapter Community Chaplaincy Norfolk (CCN) celebrated the beginning of a new chapter this week, as the new chair of trustees Chris Tomlinson led his first annual meeting. Read more

Lowestoft Christians launch on-line bible helps app The Lowestoft and Great Yarmouth branch of Good News for Everyone (GNFE), formerly the Gideons, have introduced a new mobile phone app called On-line Bible Helps. Read more

Addicts' rehabilitation centre plan for Drayton Hall Christian addiction charity Teen Challenge London is planning to turn Drayton Hall near Norwich into its headquarters and a rehabilitation centre for men, after it was gifted the freehold of the hall by its owner, the Lind Trust. Read more

The power of positive protest Philip Young encourages us to take a stand for what we believe, and has just written to Therese Coffey regarding climate change and the forthcoming COP 27. He explains why we should be prepared to protest. Read more

Norwich church celebrates with cribs and trees Rosebery Road Methodist Church in Norwich will be holding its annual Cribs and Trees Festival in December. Read more

Transforming Norwich lunch offers ministry tips Ex-Brighton vicar, Rev Phil Moon, will offer tips on how to keep going in ministry to the Transforming Norwich leaders lunch on Wednesday November 16. Read more

Quiet Waters in Bungay offers healing retreat Quiet Waters Christian Retreat in Bungay is holding a gentle day retreat exploring healing in the Kingdom of God. Read more

Latest Norfolk Christian community events Events of interest to the Norwich and Norfolk Christian community happening over the next few weeks are listed. Read more

Norfolk ministry coaching duo are guest speakers Former church leaders and now freelance ministry coaches, Jonathan and Paige Squirrell, are the guest speakers at the next dinner of Norwich FGB on Monday, November 21. Read more

Bringing light to Halloween Anna Price encourages Christians to engage positively with Halloween rather than hide away, on what many see as the darkest night of the year. Read more

First service takes place at Norwich church site SOUL Church hosted around 400 people for a special service on the site of their new building on Heartsease Lane. Read more

Dereham draws up list of warm places for winter As rising energy prices make it harder to heat homes, churches in Dereham are leading the way in creating warm spaces where people can go. Read more

South Norfolk church scoops national award A medieval Anglican church in a tiny hamlet in South Norfolk has won a national award and a 10,000 boost. Read more

Dereham churches help people to help themselves A group of churches in Dereham have launched an ambitious project which aims to meet needs in the town, including the provision of food and skills training. Read more

Halloween light in Gorleston church On Halloween this year, St Mary Magdalene Church in Gorleston will be preparing to welcome around 200 families to experience their Light on a Dark Night event. Read more

An opportunity for Norwich to pray for the nation Rev Nigel Fox, who has served as a Methodist Minister for 15 years in Norwich, shares an open invitation to pray for the nation at a crucial moment. Read more

Norwich church seeks musicians Kingdom Ambassadors International Church is appealing for instrumentlists, keyboardists and guitarists to be part of their worship experience. Read more
By Reuters

FRANKFURT: German engineers expect no hit to business from the presidency of Donald Trump or Britain's decision to leave the European Union, the head of industry body VDMA told a German newspaper.

"We don't expect that engineering will be the focus of President Donald Trump and that significant trade barriers will be built in the short-term," VDMA President Carl Martin Welcker told Suedwest Presse in an interview.

"One reason is that hardly any American competitors exist for our products."

The United States is the most important export market for German engineers, accounting for 11 percent, or 17.8 billion euros ($19.1 billion), the paper said.

VDMA said in December it expected muted growth in 2017, with an uncertain outlook for business in the United States and China offsetting a recovery in exports to some markets such as Russia and India.

The industry group, which represents large engineering companies such as Siemens as well as thousands of medium-sized industrial goods makers, sees sector sales edging up to 224 billion euros in 2017 from 220 billion in 2016.

Welcker also expects no dramatic impact from Brexit, he said.

"The industrial base there is no longer strong enough for German machines to be particularly in demand."

FRANKFURT: German engineers expect no hit to business from the presidency of Donald Trump or Britain's decision to leave the European Union, the head of industry body VDMA told a German newspaper. "We don't expect that engineering will be the focus of President Donald Trump and that significant trade barriers will be built in the short-term," VDMA President Carl Martin Welcker told Suedwest Presse in an interview. "One reason is that hardly any American competitors exist for our products." The United States is the most important export market for German engineers, accounting for 11 percent, or 17.8 billion euros ($19.1 billion), the paper said. VDMA said in December it expected muted growth in 2017, with an uncertain outlook for business in the United States and China offsetting a recovery in exports to some markets such as Russia and India. The industry group, which represents large engineering companies such as Siemens as well as thousands of medium-sized industrial goods makers, sees sector sales edging up to 224 billion euros in 2017 from 220 billion in 2016. Welcker also expects no dramatic impact from Brexit, he said. "The industrial base there is no longer strong enough for German machines to be particularly in demand."
By Express News Service

HYDERABAD: Renewable energy certificate (RECs) sales saw a notable rise in the month of January  245 percent.

RECs were introduced for offering a convenient way for companies to meet green energy obligations. The activity on the REC front was so encouraging in the first month of the 2017 that 15.68 lakh RECs were sold against 4.54 lakh in December last year.

According to the regulations of Central and State Regulatory Commissions, power distribution companies, open access and captive consumers need to buy RECs from renewable energy producers, under renewable purchase obligations. Indian Energy Exchange (IEX) and Power Exchange India Ltd (PXIL), both approved by the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission hold auctions of RECs every month.

According to Renewable Energy Certificate Registry of India, the sale volume at the two exchanges in January was 15,68,192. While 12,87,814 RECs were sold through IEX, 2,80,378 RECs were sold through PXIL.

With trade of 12.48 lakh RECs, the market has set an all-time high record predominantly on purchase by DISCOMs followed by Open Access Consumers and Captive Consumers.

Since the beginning of this fiscal, IEX has traded about 31 lakh RECs. REC volume trade saw an increase of over 412 percent over 2.51 lakh RECs traded in the previous month of the same fiscal, said a press statement from IEX.Coming to PXIL, the total cleared volume on the exchange was 2,80,378 RECs that resulted in PXIL gaining a market share of 18 percent.

HYDERABAD: Renewable energy certificate (RECs) sales saw a notable rise in the month of January  245 percent. RECs were introduced for offering a convenient way for companies to meet green energy obligations. The activity on the REC front was so encouraging in the first month of the 2017 that 15.68 lakh RECs were sold against 4.54 lakh in December last year. According to the regulations of Central and State Regulatory Commissions, power distribution companies, open access and captive consumers need to buy RECs from renewable energy producers, under renewable purchase obligations. Indian Energy Exchange (IEX) and Power Exchange India Ltd (PXIL), both approved by the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission hold auctions of RECs every month. According to Renewable Energy Certificate Registry of India, the sale volume at the two exchanges in January was 15,68,192. While 12,87,814 RECs were sold through IEX, 2,80,378 RECs were sold through PXIL. With trade of 12.48 lakh RECs, the market has set an all-time high record predominantly on purchase by DISCOMs followed by Open Access Consumers and Captive Consumers. Since the beginning of this fiscal, IEX has traded about 31 lakh RECs. REC volume trade saw an increase of over 412 percent over 2.51 lakh RECs traded in the previous month of the same fiscal, said a press statement from IEX.Coming to PXIL, the total cleared volume on the exchange was 2,80,378 RECs that resulted in PXIL gaining a market share of 18 percent.
By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: General Anti-Avoidance Rules (GAAR), which will take effect from April 1, will not take away the right of the taxpayer to select or choose the method of implementing a transaction, the finance ministry clarified.

The ministry had sought implementation of GAAR to ensure that investors making capital gains from Indian business do not route their transactions through other countries to avoid paying tax, causing loss to the exchequer.

Based on requests from industry associations to clarify how this could be implemented, the Central Board of Direct Taxes, Government of India (CBDT) had constituted a working group to look into investors concerns. On Friday, it issued a set of basic guidelines under which GAAR would be implemented.

Rajesh H Gandhi, partner, Deloitte Haskins & Sells LLP, said, The FAQs on GAAR have addressed some of the concerns of taxpayers though doubts would still remain primarily because of the subjectivity in GAAR. Industry was expecting the government to lay down objective tests for invoking GAAR and a list of transactions where GAAR would not be invoked.

According to Girish Vanvari, partner and national head of tax at KPMG in India, the move is a step in the right direction but many areas still need clarity.

NEW DELHI: General Anti-Avoidance Rules (GAAR), which will take effect from April 1, will not take away the right of the taxpayer to select or choose the method of implementing a transaction, the finance ministry clarified. The ministry had sought implementation of GAAR to ensure that investors making capital gains from Indian business do not route their transactions through other countries to avoid paying tax, causing loss to the exchequer. Based on requests from industry associations to clarify how this could be implemented, the Central Board of Direct Taxes, Government of India (CBDT) had constituted a working group to look into investors concerns. On Friday, it issued a set of basic guidelines under which GAAR would be implemented. Rajesh H Gandhi, partner, Deloitte Haskins & Sells LLP, said, The FAQs on GAAR have addressed some of the concerns of taxpayers though doubts would still remain primarily because of the subjectivity in GAAR. Industry was expecting the government to lay down objective tests for invoking GAAR and a list of transactions where GAAR would not be invoked. According to Girish Vanvari, partner and national head of tax at KPMG in India, the move is a step in the right direction but many areas still need clarity.
By Express News Service

BENGALURU: The 52nd annual convocation of Bangalore University on Friday lost a bit of its sheen when over 100 gold medallists received just a cash prize and no medal. Of the 203 gold medals to be awarded this year, only 82 candidates received the gold medal.

For students who put years of hard work into their studies, it was a disappointment to see just the cash prize. Some winners were even seen crying.

Sowjanya S K, an MA Kannada graduate, won eight gold medals. She said, I had bagged a total of eight gold medals, but during the convocation I received only one and for the rest they gave me cash and certificates mentioning gold medals. I am very disappointed with this attitude of the university. It was with my efforts that I bagged eight medals.

Kashifa F who bagged five gold medals in MSc Chemistry shared the same story. I was waiting for this moment to receive all my medals from the Governor. Instead of five, the authorities gave me just one. We dont know who to approach.

Yashoda, who got two gold medals MSc Chemistry, was attending the convocation with her family, relatives who had arrived from a small village in Channapatna.

Her father said, My daughter is the first to be educated in our family and we were all so happy to know that she was receiving gold medals. But we were shocked to realise they did not give her the gold medals and instead gave cash.

Dr B Thimme Gowda, Vice-Chancellor of BU, said, It costs around Rs 3,000 to Rs 4,000 for each gold medal and all the first rank holders from the university were given medals. However, the university cant bear the expenses of buying gold medals that have been instituted by donors.

BENGALURU: The 52nd annual convocation of Bangalore University on Friday lost a bit of its sheen when over 100 gold medallists received just a cash prize and no medal. Of the 203 gold medals to be awarded this year, only 82 candidates received the gold medal. For students who put years of hard work into their studies, it was a disappointment to see just the cash prize. Some winners were even seen crying. Sowjanya S K, an MA Kannada graduate, won eight gold medals. She said, I had bagged a total of eight gold medals, but during the convocation I received only one and for the rest they gave me cash and certificates mentioning gold medals. I am very disappointed with this attitude of the university. It was with my efforts that I bagged eight medals. Kashifa F who bagged five gold medals in MSc Chemistry shared the same story. I was waiting for this moment to receive all my medals from the Governor. Instead of five, the authorities gave me just one. We dont know who to approach. Yashoda, who got two gold medals MSc Chemistry, was attending the convocation with her family, relatives who had arrived from a small village in Channapatna. Her father said, My daughter is the first to be educated in our family and we were all so happy to know that she was receiving gold medals. But we were shocked to realise they did not give her the gold medals and instead gave cash. Dr B Thimme Gowda, Vice-Chancellor of BU, said, It costs around Rs 3,000 to Rs 4,000 for each gold medal and all the first rank holders from the university were given medals. However, the university cant bear the expenses of buying gold medals that have been instituted by donors.
Ashwini M Sripad By

Express News Service

BENGALURU: The state government is taking all measures to avoid a power shortage during summer months. The Power Company of Karnataka Limited (PCKL) has already called for a short tender to purchase power between 800MW and 1,200MW (depending on the demand).

Agreement between bidders and the KPCL was prepared over 15 days ago, said Kumar Naik, managing director, Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL).

Hydel power generated in September was not utilised. We have sufficient water and are capable of generating power, he added. The state government will also be buying power from sugar factories.

M K Shankarlinge Gowda, chairman, Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC), said the state government and sugar factories had filed a petition before them regarding fixing of the tariff. In the interim tariff passed by the commission, KERC fixed it at `3.47 per unit.

Electricity supply companies will pay the amount to sugar factories and buy not more than 500MW from them. There are 28 sugar factories which together generate over 500MW, but there were no takers for it in Karnataka. With the state government getting additional 500MW, power crisis is likely to reduce, he said.

Official sources from Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation Limited (KPTCL) say they are capable of managing 210 mega units per day. The government is purchasing more power. However, the demand is likely to shoot up to a great extent in agricultural as well as the domestic sector. Water scarcity will only add to the problem. In that case, governments efforts may not be enough and the problem of a power outage will persist, said a source.

A senior official from BESCOM said they were planning to install rooftop solar panels on state- and central government-owned buildings. We have identified around 80 state-owned buildings on which solar panels will be fixed. This is expected to lessen the burden on our grid in summer. In the next phase, 200 buildings owned by Central government will be covered, the official said.

Though the state generates around 280 Million Units (MU) of power a day through hydro, thermal power stations, a part of it goes waste during transmission. The states power consumption per day stands at 190 Million Units (MU). During summers, the demand soars to 200 MU.

We can manage up to 210 MU a day this summer, said a senior official from Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation Limited.

In the last seven years, the state has spent Rs 24,694 crores to purchase 50,148 MU. Naik said more than 50 percent of power is generated from KPCL and the rest from NHPC Limited (within Karnataka and other states).

BENGALURU: The state government is taking all measures to avoid a power shortage during summer months. The Power Company of Karnataka Limited (PCKL) has already called for a short tender to purchase power between 800MW and 1,200MW (depending on the demand). Agreement between bidders and the KPCL was prepared over 15 days ago, said Kumar Naik, managing director, Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL). Hydel power generated in September was not utilised. We have sufficient water and are capable of generating power, he added. The state government will also be buying power from sugar factories. M K Shankarlinge Gowda, chairman, Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC), said the state government and sugar factories had filed a petition before them regarding fixing of the tariff. In the interim tariff passed by the commission, KERC fixed it at `3.47 per unit. Electricity supply companies will pay the amount to sugar factories and buy not more than 500MW from them. There are 28 sugar factories which together generate over 500MW, but there were no takers for it in Karnataka. With the state government getting additional 500MW, power crisis is likely to reduce, he said. Official sources from Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation Limited (KPTCL) say they are capable of managing 210 mega units per day. The government is purchasing more power. However, the demand is likely to shoot up to a great extent in agricultural as well as the domestic sector. Water scarcity will only add to the problem. In that case, governments efforts may not be enough and the problem of a power outage will persist, said a source. A senior official from BESCOM said they were planning to install rooftop solar panels on state- and central government-owned buildings. We have identified around 80 state-owned buildings on which solar panels will be fixed. This is expected to lessen the burden on our grid in summer. In the next phase, 200 buildings owned by Central government will be covered, the official said. Though the state generates around 280 Million Units (MU) of power a day through hydro, thermal power stations, a part of it goes waste during transmission. The states power consumption per day stands at 190 Million Units (MU). During summers, the demand soars to 200 MU. We can manage up to 210 MU a day this summer, said a senior official from Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation Limited. In the last seven years, the state has spent Rs 24,694 crores to purchase 50,148 MU. Naik said more than 50 percent of power is generated from KPCL and the rest from NHPC Limited (within Karnataka and other states).
Christin Mathew Philip By

Express News Service

BENGALURU: As the city battles growing traffic congestion and BMTC struggles to expand its fleets, many residents want the state government to allow private players to operate bus services in the city.

At present, stage carriage permit in the city is BMTCs exclusive right and no other private operator is allowed to pick up or drop passengers like BMTC buses. However, BMTC, which has only 6,196 buses is struggling to cater the huge demand in the city and more worryingly the percentage cancellations of BMTCs schedules has increased from 5.4 percent in 2012-13 to a record 14.7 percent in 2016-17.

There has been no substantial increase in the number of buses and staffs according to the growing demand (see graphics). In fact, the number of BMTC buses has reduced from 6,431 in 2012-13 to 6,196 now. In contrast, the number of vehicles in the city has more than doubled - from 28,41,152 in 2006 to 66,31,425 in 2016 (till November).

Many residents said entry of private players will end the monopoly of the BMTC buses.

If the government is not ready to provide adequate buses, then why they are stopping others? App-based aggregators like Uber, Ola and Zipgo offer better services than BMTC buses. The presence of private players will bring healthy competition and will also encourage more people to switch over to buses from private vehicles, taxis and auto rickshaws, said Revathy Ashok, chief executive and managing trustee of Bangalore Political Action Committee (BPAC), an NGO.

Its not feasible to select routes or book seats in advance in BMTC buses. Its difficult to wait for BMTC buses for a long time and most buses are crowded during peak hours. I dont mind taking a bus instead of my car if someone provides good service, said Naveen Kumar, a resident of Shanthi Nagar.

BMTC officials are against the idea as they argue that private bus operators will operate on routes with high demand.

We have social commitments like concessional passes for students, unlike private operators. We are also operating on loss-making routes, said a BMTC official.

Cities like New Delhi and Mumbai are also planning to allow private players to operate bus services in the city. In New Delhi, Transport department is working on a policy where they will allow the app-based aggregators to take permit and run buses. The Delhi government will also frame rules and fare. The buses need to run on clean fuel and should have safety features.

Vinay Srinivas of Bangalore Bus Prayaanikara Vedike, an NGO fighting for better services, said the government should reduce the bus fares and increase the number of fleets. This will attract more people to bus services, he said.

Urban planner Ashwin Mahesh said the government is not keen to provide BMTC funds to improve its services. BMTC could buy 4,000 new buses at Rs 1,890 crores, which is earmarked for the proposed steel flyover. Private players may be not obliged for public services but BMTC can rope in private players to run their buses, he said.

Some bus passengers said entry of private buses may lead to rash driving and accidents and also raises security concerns especially for women at night.

BENGALURU: As the city battles growing traffic congestion and BMTC struggles to expand its fleets, many residents want the state government to allow private players to operate bus services in the city. At present, stage carriage permit in the city is BMTCs exclusive right and no other private operator is allowed to pick up or drop passengers like BMTC buses. However, BMTC, which has only 6,196 buses is struggling to cater the huge demand in the city and more worryingly the percentage cancellations of BMTCs schedules has increased from 5.4 percent in 2012-13 to a record 14.7 percent in 2016-17. There has been no substantial increase in the number of buses and staffs according to the growing demand (see graphics). In fact, the number of BMTC buses has reduced from 6,431 in 2012-13 to 6,196 now. In contrast, the number of vehicles in the city has more than doubled - from 28,41,152 in 2006 to 66,31,425 in 2016 (till November). Many residents said entry of private players will end the monopoly of the BMTC buses. If the government is not ready to provide adequate buses, then why they are stopping others? App-based aggregators like Uber, Ola and Zipgo offer better services than BMTC buses. The presence of private players will bring healthy competition and will also encourage more people to switch over to buses from private vehicles, taxis and auto rickshaws, said Revathy Ashok, chief executive and managing trustee of Bangalore Political Action Committee (BPAC), an NGO. Its not feasible to select routes or book seats in advance in BMTC buses. Its difficult to wait for BMTC buses for a long time and most buses are crowded during peak hours. I dont mind taking a bus instead of my car if someone provides good service, said Naveen Kumar, a resident of Shanthi Nagar. BMTC officials are against the idea as they argue that private bus operators will operate on routes with high demand. We have social commitments like concessional passes for students, unlike private operators. We are also operating on loss-making routes, said a BMTC official. Cities like New Delhi and Mumbai are also planning to allow private players to operate bus services in the city. In New Delhi, Transport department is working on a policy where they will allow the app-based aggregators to take permit and run buses. The Delhi government will also frame rules and fare. The buses need to run on clean fuel and should have safety features. Vinay Srinivas of Bangalore Bus Prayaanikara Vedike, an NGO fighting for better services, said the government should reduce the bus fares and increase the number of fleets. This will attract more people to bus services, he said. Urban planner Ashwin Mahesh said the government is not keen to provide BMTC funds to improve its services. BMTC could buy 4,000 new buses at Rs 1,890 crores, which is earmarked for the proposed steel flyover. Private players may be not obliged for public services but BMTC can rope in private players to run their buses, he said. Some bus passengers said entry of private buses may lead to rash driving and accidents and also raises security concerns especially for women at night.
By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: After completing a three month-long investigation, Delhi Police crime branch has filed a chargesheet in a Pakistan spy racket case, though it has not made any charges against officers of the Pakistan High Commission.

According to police, they have given documented evidences on how the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) racket operated from the Pakistan High Commission. Delhi Police have arrested four persons including personal secretary (PS) to Rajya Sabha MP Farhat in the case, in which the MP is a witness.

Documents related to training of forces in Sir Creek sector, Marine battalion at Ormara, maps marked legend strike, diagrammatic fire plan, deployment of Army's surface to air missile, fire plans etc were seized from spies, a Delhi police official said.

While a report from BSF is awaited. Indian Airforce has confirmed, 'documents are secret (sic) and confidential in nature'. Documents seized from PS of Samajwadi Party MP are not classified in nature. However he was part of the conspiracy to leak documents for long, the official added.

Delhi Police also mentioned station chief of ISI in New Delhi Syed Farooq Habib. He claimed that he said he was first posted in Baloch regiment and subsequently got deputed in ISI, an investigator claimed.

Following the ISI racket bust, four officials of Pak High Commission in New Delhi were given a de'marche and a persona non grata status.

NEW DELHI: After completing a three month-long investigation, Delhi Police crime branch has filed a chargesheet in a Pakistan spy racket case, though it has not made any charges against officers of the Pakistan High Commission. According to police, they have given documented evidences on how the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) racket operated from the Pakistan High Commission. Delhi Police have arrested four persons including personal secretary (PS) to Rajya Sabha MP Farhat in the case, in which the MP is a witness. Documents related to training of forces in Sir Creek sector, Marine battalion at Ormara, maps marked legend strike, diagrammatic fire plan, deployment of Army's surface to air missile, fire plans etc were seized from spies, a Delhi police official said. While a report from BSF is awaited. Indian Airforce has confirmed, 'documents are secret (sic) and confidential in nature'. Documents seized from PS of Samajwadi Party MP are not classified in nature. However he was part of the conspiracy to leak documents for long, the official added. Delhi Police also mentioned station chief of ISI in New Delhi Syed Farooq Habib. He claimed that he said he was first posted in Baloch regiment and subsequently got deputed in ISI, an investigator claimed. Following the ISI racket bust, four officials of Pak High Commission in New Delhi were given a de'marche and a persona non grata status.
By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Delhi police has arrested parents of a 4-month old girl, who was found abandoned in South East Delhi on Friday. According to police, the parents have been identified as Irshad Ali and his wife Mobina Khatoon. During interrogation, Irshad said that the girl used to cry a lot so finally they decided to abandon her. "Ali was irritated with the infant girl as she used to cry a lot. He even threatened multiple times to kill the child. He also presurrised Mobina to abandon her," DCP south-east Romil Baniya said.

According to the police, victim's name is 'Nagma' and she is just 4 months old. Parents left her in a jungle behind Hanuman temple on Friday evening. Mobina Khatoon was earlier married to Raju who left her and went to Nepal. Later, she married Ali who is working as a labourer and has 4 children, two daughters and two sons.The child has been handed over to NGO and will be brought to the child welfare committee on Monday.

NEW DELHI: Delhi police has arrested parents of a 4-month old girl, who was found abandoned in South East Delhi on Friday. According to police, the parents have been identified as Irshad Ali and his wife Mobina Khatoon. During interrogation, Irshad said that the girl used to cry a lot so finally they decided to abandon her. "Ali was irritated with the infant girl as she used to cry a lot. He even threatened multiple times to kill the child. He also presurrised Mobina to abandon her," DCP south-east Romil Baniya said. According to the police, victim's name is 'Nagma' and she is just 4 months old. Parents left her in a jungle behind Hanuman temple on Friday evening. Mobina Khatoon was earlier married to Raju who left her and went to Nepal. Later, she married Ali who is working as a labourer and has 4 children, two daughters and two sons.The child has been handed over to NGO and will be brought to the child welfare committee on Monday.
By Express News Service

KOCHI: It seems that all is not well at Maharajas College, which witnessed two strikes recently - one in connection with the hostel and the other seeking resignation of the principal.



While both the strikes have come to a sudden halt, the hostels remain devoid of basic requirements such as water, food and electricity. Also, the students and principal K L Beena are yet to reconcile.



At the last meeting, the college authorities had agreed to the demands raised by students with regard to the hostel - Maharajas College Rama Varma (MCRV). It was decided to provide accommodation for 24 students at the staff hostel, said Arts Club secretary and SFI worker Sneh Balan.



However, he was unaware of the ordeals of some tribal students from Attappadi who were forced to return after they were denied food and hostel facility. According to SFI unit member Anju, the students did not approach the SFI leadership for assistance.



The SFI always raised the issues of students with due seriousness, said students union chairman Aswin Dinesh. It was only in the last stage of the protest we came to know about the tribal students. The authorities have promised to consider their case, and students who got admission at the staff hostel have expressed willingness to accommodate the tribal students, he said and blamed the media for sensationalising the matter.



We will intensify the protest and resort to creative methods like placards and human chain, without interrupting the classes.



Meanwhile, Inquilab Students Association activist Favadh alleged the SFI adopted double-standard during the observance of the Rohit Vemula Day. I was beaten up by the SFI workers. They nurture vengeance against political activists on the campus. It seems they called off the strike after the students who burnt the principals chair were expelled from the party, he said.

KOCHI: It seems that all is not well at Maharajas College, which witnessed two strikes recently - one in connection with the hostel and the other seeking resignation of the principal. While both the strikes have come to a sudden halt, the hostels remain devoid of basic requirements such as water, food and electricity. Also, the students and principal K L Beena are yet to reconcile. At the last meeting, the college authorities had agreed to the demands raised by students with regard to the hostel - Maharajas College Rama Varma (MCRV). It was decided to provide accommodation for 24 students at the staff hostel, said Arts Club secretary and SFI worker Sneh Balan. However, he was unaware of the ordeals of some tribal students from Attappadi who were forced to return after they were denied food and hostel facility. According to SFI unit member Anju, the students did not approach the SFI leadership for assistance. The SFI always raised the issues of students with due seriousness, said students union chairman Aswin Dinesh. It was only in the last stage of the protest we came to know about the tribal students. The authorities have promised to consider their case, and students who got admission at the staff hostel have expressed willingness to accommodate the tribal students, he said and blamed the media for sensationalising the matter. We will intensify the protest and resort to creative methods like placards and human chain, without interrupting the classes. Meanwhile, Inquilab Students Association activist Favadh alleged the SFI adopted double-standard during the observance of the Rohit Vemula Day. I was beaten up by the SFI workers. They nurture vengeance against political activists on the campus. It seems they called off the strike after the students who burnt the principals chair were expelled from the party, he said.
By ANI

MUMBAI:Filmmaker Vikram Bhatt has expressed disgust over the physical assault Sanjay Leela Bhansali was subjected to at the sets of Padmavati in Jaipur and termed the whole incident as unfortunate.

The most unfortunate thing is that filmmakers and artists live in glass houses. We are always scared that at anytime someone can pelt a stone at us. There is no protection for us, he told ANI.

I dont know what is the solution for this. Who do we arrest when it was a group? The whole film fraternity is with him (Bhansali). My blood is boiling but sadly we are not able to do anything. We are helpless. Bhatt added.

B-town celebs have all come together to condemn the incident where a group of activists from Shree Rajput Karni Sena forced stopped the shooting of Bhansalis next directorial venture by vandalising the set at Jaigarh Fort, of Jaipur and also assaulted him.



The video of crime has been going viral on social media platforms.

MUMBAI:Filmmaker Vikram Bhatt has expressed disgust over the physical assault Sanjay Leela Bhansali was subjected to at the sets of Padmavati in Jaipur and termed the whole incident as unfortunate. The most unfortunate thing is that filmmakers and artists live in glass houses. We are always scared that at anytime someone can pelt a stone at us. There is no protection for us, he told ANI. I dont know what is the solution for this. Who do we arrest when it was a group? The whole film fraternity is with him (Bhansali). My blood is boiling but sadly we are not able to do anything. We are helpless. Bhatt added. B-town celebs have all come together to condemn the incident where a group of activists from Shree Rajput Karni Sena forced stopped the shooting of Bhansalis next directorial venture by vandalising the set at Jaigarh Fort, of Jaipur and also assaulted him. The video of crime has been going viral on social media platforms.
By IANS

MUMBAI: The Film & Television Producers Guild of India Ltd has condemned the attack on ace filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali by activists of a Rajput organisation, Shree Rajput Karni Sena, on the sets of his upcoming film "Padmavati" in Jaipur. It has also urged the Indian government to take "immediate steps" against "miscreants".

The activists assaulted Bhansali on Friday, slapped him and tore up his shirt.

Guild President Siddharth Roy Kapur said in a statement: "As President of The Film & Television Producers Guild of India Ltd and speaking on behalf of the entire film industry, I strongly condemn the acts of vandalism on the sets of 'Padmavati' as a direct attack on freedom of expression in our democracy.

"The film industry has become the softest target for any fringe group looking for media attention, and we need the strongest possible intervention from the concerned authorities to end this and to end it now.

Kapur further went on and added: "We stand united and unflinching in our support of Sanjay Leela Bhansali, and urge the Government of India and the state government of Rajasthan to take immediate steps to ensure the strongest possible punitive action is taken against these miscreants, so it serves as a deterrent in preventing the recurrence of such unacceptable events in the future."

The Guild has made a plea to the concerned ministries and authorities to promptly initiate measures against these elements to send out a strong message to other misinformed individuals and bodies that such acts will not be tolerated in the future and thereby provide a timely deterrent against the repetition of these unacceptable incidents.

Bhansali, whose 2015 release "Bajirao Mastani" was also criticised by a section of the society for "distorting" history, was shooting some shots of "Padmavati" in Jaigarh Fort.

"Padmavati" tells the story of Alauddin Khilji, the medieval-era Delhi ruler, who fell in love with Rajput queen Padmavati.

Actors Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone and Shahid Kapoor star in the film.

MUMBAI: The Film & Television Producers Guild of India Ltd has condemned the attack on ace filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali by activists of a Rajput organisation, Shree Rajput Karni Sena, on the sets of his upcoming film "Padmavati" in Jaipur. It has also urged the Indian government to take "immediate steps" against "miscreants". The activists assaulted Bhansali on Friday, slapped him and tore up his shirt. Guild President Siddharth Roy Kapur said in a statement: "As President of The Film & Television Producers Guild of India Ltd and speaking on behalf of the entire film industry, I strongly condemn the acts of vandalism on the sets of 'Padmavati' as a direct attack on freedom of expression in our democracy. "The film industry has become the softest target for any fringe group looking for media attention, and we need the strongest possible intervention from the concerned authorities to end this and to end it now. Kapur further went on and added: "We stand united and unflinching in our support of Sanjay Leela Bhansali, and urge the Government of India and the state government of Rajasthan to take immediate steps to ensure the strongest possible punitive action is taken against these miscreants, so it serves as a deterrent in preventing the recurrence of such unacceptable events in the future." The Guild has made a plea to the concerned ministries and authorities to promptly initiate measures against these elements to send out a strong message to other misinformed individuals and bodies that such acts will not be tolerated in the future and thereby provide a timely deterrent against the repetition of these unacceptable incidents. Bhansali, whose 2015 release "Bajirao Mastani" was also criticised by a section of the society for "distorting" history, was shooting some shots of "Padmavati" in Jaigarh Fort. "Padmavati" tells the story of Alauddin Khilji, the medieval-era Delhi ruler, who fell in love with Rajput queen Padmavati. Actors Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone and Shahid Kapoor star in the film.
S Subhakeerthana By

Express News Service

Full of intelligence, wit and humility, Kriti Kharbanda is an interviewers delight. A well-known name in Kannada film industry, the actor is excited to make her Kollywood debut with the GV Prakash Kumar-starrer Bruce Lee. Though she had signed a Tamil movie three years ago, she couldnt do it as she was busy with Kannada projects.



One of the first few ads I did was for a popular textile showroom in Chennai. That way, the city is close to my heart, she says. Ask her about choosing her first Tamil film, she says, More than anything I liked Bruce Lees script. I enjoyed working with the team; in fact I had blast shooting for this film. Director Prashanth has a child-like nature.



Though she doesnt belong to this city, Kriti is floored by the love and care she has been receiving from her crew. I never felt I was away from home. Everybody made me feel comfortable. I was eating biryani almost every day as Prashanth would order it from different restaurants. It was such a sweet gesture, she says.



Elaborating on the fun she had on the sets of Bruce Lee, she adds, They made me learn swear words in Tamil. My character also needed that. She is somebody who has this you-cant-mess-with-me attitude. Basically, Prashanth wanted me to be a lady Prashanth in this one.Ask her if she could identify herself with the character, she grins, Im not totally like that, but to an extent  yes.



Kriti adds that the role is similar to what she is in real life. I am not girlie; I dont do girlie things. I am surrounded by guys most of the time. I hardly mingle with girls. So, playing a tomboy was so much fun.



Having been in the Kannada film industry for more than five years, Kriti says she felt like a pucca debutante when she was shooting in Chennai. I was working on similar genres in Kannada for quite some time.

I cannot say I got bored, but I was looking for variety. Tamil cinema came as a fresh breath of air. Suddenly, everything seemed new. Working with new set of actors and technicians was a different experience altogether, she shares.



Kriti believes what happens in the beginning of her career defines the rest of her life. I realised that content and good roles define success. I only do films where I have something to contribute. Currently, I am shooting for Masti Gudi in Kannada and a Hindi film, she smiles.



Talking about her future plans, she says shed love to do a film with Suriya. Kaakha Kaakha (2003) was the first Tamil film I watched. I fell in love with both Suriya and Jyothika. Also, I like Trisha, she smiles.

Full of intelligence, wit and humility, Kriti Kharbanda is an interviewers delight. A well-known name in Kannada film industry, the actor is excited to make her Kollywood debut with the GV Prakash Kumar-starrer Bruce Lee. Though she had signed a Tamil movie three years ago, she couldnt do it as she was busy with Kannada projects. One of the first few ads I did was for a popular textile showroom in Chennai. That way, the city is close to my heart, she says. Ask her about choosing her first Tamil film, she says, More than anything I liked Bruce Lees script. I enjoyed working with the team; in fact I had blast shooting for this film. Director Prashanth has a child-like nature. Though she doesnt belong to this city, Kriti is floored by the love and care she has been receiving from her crew. I never felt I was away from home. Everybody made me feel comfortable. I was eating biryani almost every day as Prashanth would order it from different restaurants. It was such a sweet gesture, she says. Elaborating on the fun she had on the sets of Bruce Lee, she adds, They made me learn swear words in Tamil. My character also needed that. She is somebody who has this you-cant-mess-with-me attitude. Basically, Prashanth wanted me to be a lady Prashanth in this one.Ask her if she could identify herself with the character, she grins, Im not totally like that, but to an extent  yes. Kriti adds that the role is similar to what she is in real life. I am not girlie; I dont do girlie things. I am surrounded by guys most of the time. I hardly mingle with girls. So, playing a tomboy was so much fun. Having been in the Kannada film industry for more than five years, Kriti says she felt like a pucca debutante when she was shooting in Chennai. I was working on similar genres in Kannada for quite some time. I cannot say I got bored, but I was looking for variety. Tamil cinema came as a fresh breath of air. Suddenly, everything seemed new. Working with new set of actors and technicians was a different experience altogether, she shares. Kriti believes what happens in the beginning of her career defines the rest of her life. I realised that content and good roles define success. I only do films where I have something to contribute. Currently, I am shooting for Masti Gudi in Kannada and a Hindi film, she smiles. Talking about her future plans, she says shed love to do a film with Suriya. Kaakha Kaakha (2003) was the first Tamil film I watched. I fell in love with both Suriya and Jyothika. Also, I like Trisha, she smiles.
Aishik Chanda By

Express News Service

KOLKATA: Within 24 hours of re-imposition of blockades in strife-torn Bhangar in South 24

Parganas district of West Bengal over arrests of CPI (ML) Red Star leaders, the Jomi, Jibika, Poribesh o Bastutanta Raksha Committee (Committee for protection of land, livelihood, environment and ecology) spearheading the movement against proposed power grid, decided to lift all the 18 blockades in the area due to inconvenience caused to the commoners but has vowed to continue with the protests.

Speaking to media, CPI (ML) Red Star leader Alik Chakraborty on Friday said:We had no other option other than imposing the blockades. However, due to inconvenience caused to the masses, we have

decided to lift them. But, protests will continue for which we urge people of all political ideologies to

gather for a rally against Bhangar power grid project in Kolkata on January 30.

Three days after Trinamool leaders brokered a fragile peace that led to the removal of blockades in strife-hit Bhangar in South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, the agitating villages returned to

blockades on Friday after top CPI (ML) Red Star leaders Sharmishtha Choudhury, Pradeep Thakur and Bhangar local Shahnawaz Mollah were arrested and CID granted an eight-day custody of the trio by a local court on Thursday. Speaking on the issue, Chakraborty said:Non-bailable charges including attempt to murder have been pressed against the Red Star leaders and even Shahnawaz, a local on whose motorbike Sharmishtha was travelling. The state government has declared war on the people, he said.

When Trinamool legislator and Bidhannagar mayor Sabyasachi Dutta, who led the removal of blockades on Tuesday, went for the second time to the area on Thursday evening, he was greeted by stone-pelting

mobs and was surrounded by villagers who allegedly pushed him and asked him to leave the area. Clashes ensued between the protesters and West Bengal Police, who escorted the mayor out. Police fired at least seven rounds in the air. Bhangar residents response to Sabyasachi Dutta and then against Sharmishthas arrest has shown whom the people consider and outsiders and whom as own people, Chakraborty added.

Some of the Bhangar residents had alleged that Trinamool cadres had thrown bombs in the area in the name of removing blockades. I dont understand red star or white star. If they come to disrupt peace, we will whitewash them, Sabyasachi Dutta said. However, the agitators said that when outsiders Red Star

leaders Choudhury, Thakur and Mollah were arrested, why same treatment was not meted out to Sabyasachi Dutta and his men, who are also outsiders to the area. Mamata Banerjee had ordered to arrest all outsiders trying to foment trouble in Bhangar but orders were followed selectively. We will continue with our protests until the Red Star leaders are released, who stood with us during the time of need, agitator Akbar Ali said.

CPI (ML) Red Star had not agreed to the suspension of the blockade on Tuesday. Apart from the three arrests, the partys general secretary K N Ramachandran was allegedly picked up from Howrah station on Sunday and sent back to Delhi on Monday. He was supposed to address a public meet of agitators in Bhangar.

KOLKATA: Within 24 hours of re-imposition of blockades in strife-torn Bhangar in South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal over arrests of CPI (ML) Red Star leaders, the Jomi, Jibika, Poribesh o Bastutanta Raksha Committee (Committee for protection of land, livelihood, environment and ecology) spearheading the movement against proposed power grid, decided to lift all the 18 blockades in the area due to inconvenience caused to the commoners but has vowed to continue with the protests. Speaking to media, CPI (ML) Red Star leader Alik Chakraborty on Friday said:We had no other option other than imposing the blockades. However, due to inconvenience caused to the masses, we have decided to lift them. But, protests will continue for which we urge people of all political ideologies to gather for a rally against Bhangar power grid project in Kolkata on January 30. Three days after Trinamool leaders brokered a fragile peace that led to the removal of blockades in strife-hit Bhangar in South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, the agitating villages returned to blockades on Friday after top CPI (ML) Red Star leaders Sharmishtha Choudhury, Pradeep Thakur and Bhangar local Shahnawaz Mollah were arrested and CID granted an eight-day custody of the trio by a local court on Thursday. Speaking on the issue, Chakraborty said:Non-bailable charges including attempt to murder have been pressed against the Red Star leaders and even Shahnawaz, a local on whose motorbike Sharmishtha was travelling. The state government has declared war on the people, he said. When Trinamool legislator and Bidhannagar mayor Sabyasachi Dutta, who led the removal of blockades on Tuesday, went for the second time to the area on Thursday evening, he was greeted by stone-pelting mobs and was surrounded by villagers who allegedly pushed him and asked him to leave the area. Clashes ensued between the protesters and West Bengal Police, who escorted the mayor out. Police fired at least seven rounds in the air. Bhangar residents response to Sabyasachi Dutta and then against Sharmishthas arrest has shown whom the people consider and outsiders and whom as own people, Chakraborty added. Some of the Bhangar residents had alleged that Trinamool cadres had thrown bombs in the area in the name of removing blockades. I dont understand red star or white star. If they come to disrupt peace, we will whitewash them, Sabyasachi Dutta said. However, the agitators said that when outsiders Red Star leaders Choudhury, Thakur and Mollah were arrested, why same treatment was not meted out to Sabyasachi Dutta and his men, who are also outsiders to the area. Mamata Banerjee had ordered to arrest all outsiders trying to foment trouble in Bhangar but orders were followed selectively. We will continue with our protests until the Red Star leaders are released, who stood with us during the time of need, agitator Akbar Ali said. CPI (ML) Red Star had not agreed to the suspension of the blockade on Tuesday. Apart from the three arrests, the partys general secretary K N Ramachandran was allegedly picked up from Howrah station on Sunday and sent back to Delhi on Monday. He was supposed to address a public meet of agitators in Bhangar.
Fayaz Wani By

Express News Service

SRINAGAR: Armys Avalanche Rescue Teams (ARTs) on Saturday rescued an army patrol comprising five soldiers, which was trapped in snow after the track leading to their post caved-in in Machil sector along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir.

An army patrol near an army camp in Machil sector got trapped in snow this morning after snow track caved in, defence spokesman in Srinagar Colonel Rajesh Kalia told Express.

He said the army patrol comprised five men and all of them were trapped in the snow.

Colonel Kalia said armys Avalanche Rescue Teams (ARTs) immediately launched the rescue operation to rescue the trapped soldiers.

He said the specially equipped ARTs continued the rescue work despite inclement weather and fresh snowfall.

After intense efforts, the rescue teams successfully managed to rescue all the five trapped soldiers, defence spokesman said.

The rescued soldiers, he said, have been hospitalised. The soldiers are undergoing treatment.

Sources said the army men were on routine patrol in the area when the snow track caved-in.

It was the 4th incident in last four days that army men have been a victim of snow avalanches and snow slides after record snowfall in the Valley.

Earlier, 14 soldiers were killed and seven others rescued when an army post and patrol party were hit by massive snow avalanches in Gurez, close to Line of Control (LoC) in North Kashmirs Bandipora district on Wednesday.

An army major was also killed and seven others rescued when snow avalanche hit some barracks in the army camp in Sonamarg in central Kashmirs Ganderbal district on Wednesday.

Five civilians including four members of a family were also killed in two separate avalanches in Gurez and Uri in last four days.

Kashmir has witnessed record snowfall this winter. The plains including Srinagar and upper reaches including Keran, Karnah, Machil, Gurez, Tangdhar, Uri, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Yousumarg, and Pahalgam received fresh snowfall today.

Due to heavy snowfall, Srinagar-Jammu national highway, the only road link connecting Kashmir with rest of the country remained closed for the fifth consecutive day today while only eight flights could take off from Srinagar airport today.

The air traffic resumed at Srinagar airport yesterday after remaining suspended for three days due to snowfall.

Due to the closure of Srinagar-Jammu national highway, the prices of essential commodities have shot up in Valley.

The Valley, which is totally dependent on the highway for supplies, is also facing a shortage of cooking gas due to the continued closure of the Srinagar-Jammu road.

SRINAGAR: Armys Avalanche Rescue Teams (ARTs) on Saturday rescued an army patrol comprising five soldiers, which was trapped in snow after the track leading to their post caved-in in Machil sector along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir. An army patrol near an army camp in Machil sector got trapped in snow this morning after snow track caved in, defence spokesman in Srinagar Colonel Rajesh Kalia told Express. He said the army patrol comprised five men and all of them were trapped in the snow. Colonel Kalia said armys Avalanche Rescue Teams (ARTs) immediately launched the rescue operation to rescue the trapped soldiers. He said the specially equipped ARTs continued the rescue work despite inclement weather and fresh snowfall. After intense efforts, the rescue teams successfully managed to rescue all the five trapped soldiers, defence spokesman said. The rescued soldiers, he said, have been hospitalised. The soldiers are undergoing treatment. Sources said the army men were on routine patrol in the area when the snow track caved-in. It was the 4th incident in last four days that army men have been a victim of snow avalanches and snow slides after record snowfall in the Valley. Earlier, 14 soldiers were killed and seven others rescued when an army post and patrol party were hit by massive snow avalanches in Gurez, close to Line of Control (LoC) in North Kashmirs Bandipora district on Wednesday. An army major was also killed and seven others rescued when snow avalanche hit some barracks in the army camp in Sonamarg in central Kashmirs Ganderbal district on Wednesday. Five civilians including four members of a family were also killed in two separate avalanches in Gurez and Uri in last four days. Kashmir has witnessed record snowfall this winter. The plains including Srinagar and upper reaches including Keran, Karnah, Machil, Gurez, Tangdhar, Uri, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Yousumarg, and Pahalgam received fresh snowfall today. Due to heavy snowfall, Srinagar-Jammu national highway, the only road link connecting Kashmir with rest of the country remained closed for the fifth consecutive day today while only eight flights could take off from Srinagar airport today. The air traffic resumed at Srinagar airport yesterday after remaining suspended for three days due to snowfall. Due to the closure of Srinagar-Jammu national highway, the prices of essential commodities have shot up in Valley. The Valley, which is totally dependent on the highway for supplies, is also facing a shortage of cooking gas due to the continued closure of the Srinagar-Jammu road.
Ankur Sharma By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Taking a cue from the Aam Aadmi Partys (AAP) style of politics which had apparently brought them back to power, the BJP in Delhi has decided to go on a door-to-door campaign.

While AAP supremo and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal along with his ministers are busy in the Punjab and Goa elections, the state BJP is busy targeting the slums the core vote bank of AAP.

The saffron party has also planned to focus on New Delhi the CMs constituency while he is away. On Saturday, Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari convened a meeting to address public grievances in the area. Sources claimed other top BJP leaders from the capital will also meet people living in different constituencies.

Since the last one week, we have been asked to expose Kejriwal as he left Delhi to campaign in Punjab. Our task is to expose his fake claims; his party has given the same promises to the people of Punjab as to those in Delhi, a BJP leader claimed. On Friday, the saffron party also started a Pol-Khol campaign.

Ahead of the MCD elections, the BJP has started appeasing people from the backward communities. It organised a conference of Other Backward Classes, playing on the discrimination angle.

Tiwari made an announcement of 35 office-bearers, ahead of the upcoming civic polls and also appointed Shazia Ilmiwho had deserted AAP to join BJPas the vice-president. He also visited slum areas across the city-state.

Meanwhile, it seems the AAP has no direct focus on the MCD polls even as it is neck deep in the upcoming Punjab and Goa elections. Refusing BJPs claims, AAP Delhi convener Dilip Pandey said their government is in touch with the people and are working at the ground level.

Instead of peeping into others houses, Manoj Tiwari should visit his own parliamentary constituency and check how the people are suffering. The AAP government is working with the people. Our party has understood the peoples anger over the years and hopefully, Delhi will sweep the jhaadu again and throw out the BJP from MCD, he exclaimed.

NEW DELHI: Taking a cue from the Aam Aadmi Partys (AAP) style of politics which had apparently brought them back to power, the BJP in Delhi has decided to go on a door-to-door campaign. While AAP supremo and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal along with his ministers are busy in the Punjab and Goa elections, the state BJP is busy targeting the slums the core vote bank of AAP. The saffron party has also planned to focus on New Delhi the CMs constituency while he is away. On Saturday, Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari convened a meeting to address public grievances in the area. Sources claimed other top BJP leaders from the capital will also meet people living in different constituencies. Since the last one week, we have been asked to expose Kejriwal as he left Delhi to campaign in Punjab. Our task is to expose his fake claims; his party has given the same promises to the people of Punjab as to those in Delhi, a BJP leader claimed. On Friday, the saffron party also started a Pol-Khol campaign. Ahead of the MCD elections, the BJP has started appeasing people from the backward communities. It organised a conference of Other Backward Classes, playing on the discrimination angle. Tiwari made an announcement of 35 office-bearers, ahead of the upcoming civic polls and also appointed Shazia Ilmiwho had deserted AAP to join BJPas the vice-president. He also visited slum areas across the city-state. Meanwhile, it seems the AAP has no direct focus on the MCD polls even as it is neck deep in the upcoming Punjab and Goa elections. Refusing BJPs claims, AAP Delhi convener Dilip Pandey said their government is in touch with the people and are working at the ground level. Instead of peeping into others houses, Manoj Tiwari should visit his own parliamentary constituency and check how the people are suffering. The AAP government is working with the people. Our party has understood the peoples anger over the years and hopefully, Delhi will sweep the jhaadu again and throw out the BJP from MCD, he exclaimed.
By Express News Service

Touching its time tested Hindutva agenda in the run up to the UP elections, BJP president Amit Shah promised Ram temple and a white paper on exodus of Hindus from Kairana, and also played the triple talaq card in an apparent bid to polarise Muslim community while releasing party manifesto  Lok Kalyan Sankalp Patra -- here on Saturday. At the same time, projecting a farmer-friendly approach of the party, Shah promised a 100 pc loan waiver to farmers.

The development-oriented manifesto promises scores of populist schemes for all sections of society including, farmers, women, youth, and downtrodden. Following the motto Na goondaraj, na Bhrashtachar (no goondaraj, no corruption), the manifesto proposes a number steps for improvement in law and order which, the BJP chief claimed, was in tatters under the present dispensation.

Referring to the temple issue, the BJP president played very safe maintaining if voted to power the BJP would do all efforts to build a grand Ram temple but conforming to constitutional framework as

the case was still pending with Supreme Court.

Promising a white paper on Kairana exodus issue, the BJP chief said that a task force would be set up under the DMs and SPs of districts and they would be made accountable in such cases. The DMs will

be entrusted with the responsibility to ensure the return of migrated chunk of population, he averred.

Two more task forces against land mafia and mining mafia were also promised in the party manifesto to put a leash on incidents of land grabbing and illegal mining, which he said was a common phenomenon

under the SP rule.

Exuding confidence that the party would form the next government in the biggest state of the country, Shah assured Muslim women all support over triple talaq issue saying that the BJP-led state government would become a party on their behalf and represent them in the Supreme Court if need be.

Promising a robust and rapid development of the state and iterating the party resolve to take the U of BIMARU out of this category, Shah assured the farmers community to waive all farm loans till Rs

2 lakh and that they would get further loans at 0% interest. Moreover, during the next 5 years, Rs 150 crore fund would be set up for agricultural development, he said.

In a push to demonetisation, the BJP chief hoped that the people of the state would join the PM in the war on corruption and black money. However, earlier, he targeted previous BSP and SP government who had ruled the state with allegedly dismal performance on the development front. Following are the salient features of the BJP Lok Kalyan Sankalp Patra:

All farm loans to be waived; farmers will get further loans with 0% interest.

In the next 5 years, 150 crore fund will be set up for agricultural development.

24x7 electricity in all houses.

Villages will be connected with mini-bus services

Special development package for Bundelkhand.

There will be a Bundelkhand and Poorvanchal development board under the directed supervision of the Chief Ministers office.

In 45 days, all criminals, who are out on parole and committing crimes, will be brought back to jails.

FIRs for all citizens will be filed without caste bias.

A task force will be set up in every district to tackle different mafias.

Recruitment of Class III and Class IV employees only on the basis of merit, no interviews to end corruption and bring transparency.

90% of the jobs will be given to youth of UP; all vacancies in different departments to be filled up soon after coming to power

Rs 500 crore will be allocated for the Baba Ambedkar fund.

Widow pension scheme of Rs 1000 without any age bar

Rs. 5,000 for every girl child born in poor families;

All colleges and universities will have free WiFi.

Laptops with free 1 GB internet data per month

Up to Rs 6 lakh loan from permanent houses and toilets. BPL citizens to get Rs 2 lakh life cover.

Redressal system in every district to sort our trader disputes.

Rs 1,000 crore start-up capital fund will be provided.

All students scoring about 50% will get free education till graduation.

In the next five years, there will be toilets in every house, LPG in every house and gas pipelines for cities.

Touching its time tested Hindutva agenda in the run up to the UP elections, BJP president Amit Shah promised Ram temple and a white paper on exodus of Hindus from Kairana, and also played the triple talaq card in an apparent bid to polarise Muslim community while releasing party manifesto  Lok Kalyan Sankalp Patra -- here on Saturday. At the same time, projecting a farmer-friendly approach of the party, Shah promised a 100 pc loan waiver to farmers. The development-oriented manifesto promises scores of populist schemes for all sections of society including, farmers, women, youth, and downtrodden. Following the motto Na goondaraj, na Bhrashtachar (no goondaraj, no corruption), the manifesto proposes a number steps for improvement in law and order which, the BJP chief claimed, was in tatters under the present dispensation. Referring to the temple issue, the BJP president played very safe maintaining if voted to power the BJP would do all efforts to build a grand Ram temple but conforming to constitutional framework as the case was still pending with Supreme Court. Promising a white paper on Kairana exodus issue, the BJP chief said that a task force would be set up under the DMs and SPs of districts and they would be made accountable in such cases. The DMs will be entrusted with the responsibility to ensure the return of migrated chunk of population, he averred. Two more task forces against land mafia and mining mafia were also promised in the party manifesto to put a leash on incidents of land grabbing and illegal mining, which he said was a common phenomenon under the SP rule. Exuding confidence that the party would form the next government in the biggest state of the country, Shah assured Muslim women all support over triple talaq issue saying that the BJP-led state government would become a party on their behalf and represent them in the Supreme Court if need be. Promising a robust and rapid development of the state and iterating the party resolve to take the U of BIMARU out of this category, Shah assured the farmers community to waive all farm loans till Rs 2 lakh and that they would get further loans at 0% interest. Moreover, during the next 5 years, Rs 150 crore fund would be set up for agricultural development, he said. In a push to demonetisation, the BJP chief hoped that the people of the state would join the PM in the war on corruption and black money. However, earlier, he targeted previous BSP and SP government who had ruled the state with allegedly dismal performance on the development front. Following are the salient features of the BJP Lok Kalyan Sankalp Patra: All farm loans to be waived; farmers will get further loans with 0% interest. In the next 5 years, 150 crore fund will be set up for agricultural development. 24x7 electricity in all houses. Villages will be connected with mini-bus services Special development package for Bundelkhand. There will be a Bundelkhand and Poorvanchal development board under the directed supervision of the Chief Ministers office. In 45 days, all criminals, who are out on parole and committing crimes, will be brought back to jails. FIRs for all citizens will be filed without caste bias. A task force will be set up in every district to tackle different mafias. Recruitment of Class III and Class IV employees only on the basis of merit, no interviews to end corruption and bring transparency. 90% of the jobs will be given to youth of UP; all vacancies in different departments to be filled up soon after coming to power Rs 500 crore will be allocated for the Baba Ambedkar fund. Widow pension scheme of Rs 1000 without any age bar Rs. 5,000 for every girl child born in poor families; All colleges and universities will have free WiFi. Laptops with free 1 GB internet data per month Up to Rs 6 lakh loan from permanent houses and toilets. BPL citizens to get Rs 2 lakh life cover. Redressal system in every district to sort our trader disputes. Rs 1,000 crore start-up capital fund will be provided. All students scoring about 50% will get free education till graduation. In the next five years, there will be toilets in every house, LPG in every house and gas pipelines for cities.
By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar on Friday met Union home secretary Rajiv Mehrishi at the North Block here and proposed the idea of creating a special mobile app to help martyrs kin.



During the meeting with Mehrishi and senior officials of the Border Security Force, Kumar proposed the creation of a mobile app that will allow donors to directly pay any amount into the verified bank account of the martyred soldiers kin.



We welcome Kumars suggestion as the Government is also planning to create such a mobile app that seeks to directly connect the families of martyred soldiers and those who want to help them financially, said a senior home ministry official.



As soon as he entered the North Block, Kumar was mobbed by scores of ministry's employees. Such was the commotion that top ministry officials instructed the CISF personnel to clear the employees from the corridors who had gathered in large numbers to catch a glimpse of the Khiladi who had also acted in Rustom playing the role of a naval officer.



The proposed app will have the names of the martyred soldiers and bank account number of their family members and those willing to contribute can directly pay any amount they wish, the official said.



Official sources said the actor initially offered to get the app designed through his personal initiative with permission from the Centre. However, the ministry told him that since the Government is also thinking on similar lines there was no need for an individual initiative. The Ministry officials assured him that his suggestions to the effect will be taken into consideration while designing the app.



NEW DELHI: Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar on Friday met Union home secretary Rajiv Mehrishi at the North Block here and proposed the idea of creating a special mobile app to help martyrs kin. During the meeting with Mehrishi and senior officials of the Border Security Force, Kumar proposed the creation of a mobile app that will allow donors to directly pay any amount into the verified bank account of the martyred soldiers kin. We welcome Kumars suggestion as the Government is also planning to create such a mobile app that seeks to directly connect the families of martyred soldiers and those who want to help them financially, said a senior home ministry official. As soon as he entered the North Block, Kumar was mobbed by scores of ministry's employees. Such was the commotion that top ministry officials instructed the CISF personnel to clear the employees from the corridors who had gathered in large numbers to catch a glimpse of the Khiladi who had also acted in Rustom playing the role of a naval officer. The proposed app will have the names of the martyred soldiers and bank account number of their family members and those willing to contribute can directly pay any amount they wish, the official said. Official sources said the actor initially offered to get the app designed through his personal initiative with permission from the Centre. However, the ministry told him that since the Government is also thinking on similar lines there was no need for an individual initiative. The Ministry officials assured him that his suggestions to the effect will be taken into consideration while designing the app.
By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Even as the Election Commission (EC) gave Prime Minister Narendra Modi's radio programme, Maan ki Baat, the green signal, it shot off a warning to the Cabinet Secretary to rein in the ministries. The EC stinker specifically cited the Union Finance, Defence ministries and NITI Aayog, for violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) which is in effect for the five-state elections since Jan 4.

In the latest letter to Union Cabinet Secretary, P.K. Sinha, dated Jan 27, the EC wrote that ''the Commission has noted that in certain cases, the Ministries/Department took decisions, which have (the) effect of disturbing level playing fields of poll bound states, without referring the matter to (the) Commission particularly by NITI Aayog, Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Finance.''

It added: ''The Commission has expressed its concerns in this matter and has directed the undersigned to request you to issue necessary instructions to all ministries/departments of GOI to strictly adhere to the Commission's guidelines issued via EC letter April 23, 2014, and also to ensure ECI concurrence is taken well in time wherever it is needed.''

Though the EC gave permission for the presentation of the Union Budget just four days before the first phase of polling, it had put caveats that no schemes or allocations in relation to poll bound states can be announced.

Sources in the EC said, it was greatly concerned as it found that the Finance Ministry had not even bothered to seek the EC's clearance to undertake the budgetary exercise on a certain date, like the PMO had done for the PM's radio programme, Mann ki Baat.

''The Finance Ministry has gone ahead and fixed the date of Budget without bothering to seek the Commissions clearance as per the guidelines.''

The Cabinet Secretary citing the Parliamentary Affairs Ministry had ''only placed some of the overall points (on the Budget issue) before the Commission'' in response to its earlier letter.

Similarly, the Defense Ministry on Jan 20 held the Combined Commanders' Conference in poll-bound Uttarakhand ignoring the ECs guidelines.

The only rider that was provided --''almost as a concessional afterthought'' -- was that the Prime Minister, who inaugurated the Commanders' conference would not combine the event with an election rally in the poll-bound state, EC sources said.

On the same day, NITI Aayog held special gram sabhas in the five poll-bound states without seeking the Commission's permission. This was despite the EC's guideline that such events can only be organised after the elections are over.

The commissions letter was meant as a warning to the ministries not to follow the footsteps of the violators. Though the Commission can countermand an election invoking MCC, it has only done so once for the Haryana assembly bypoll.

NEW DELHI: Even as the Election Commission (EC) gave Prime Minister Narendra Modi's radio programme, Maan ki Baat, the green signal, it shot off a warning to the Cabinet Secretary to rein in the ministries. The EC stinker specifically cited the Union Finance, Defence ministries and NITI Aayog, for violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) which is in effect for the five-state elections since Jan 4. In the latest letter to Union Cabinet Secretary, P.K. Sinha, dated Jan 27, the EC wrote that ''the Commission has noted that in certain cases, the Ministries/Department took decisions, which have (the) effect of disturbing level playing fields of poll bound states, without referring the matter to (the) Commission particularly by NITI Aayog, Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Finance.'' It added: ''The Commission has expressed its concerns in this matter and has directed the undersigned to request you to issue necessary instructions to all ministries/departments of GOI to strictly adhere to the Commission's guidelines issued via EC letter April 23, 2014, and also to ensure ECI concurrence is taken well in time wherever it is needed.'' Though the EC gave permission for the presentation of the Union Budget just four days before the first phase of polling, it had put caveats that no schemes or allocations in relation to poll bound states can be announced. Sources in the EC said, it was greatly concerned as it found that the Finance Ministry had not even bothered to seek the EC's clearance to undertake the budgetary exercise on a certain date, like the PMO had done for the PM's radio programme, Mann ki Baat. ''The Finance Ministry has gone ahead and fixed the date of Budget without bothering to seek the Commissions clearance as per the guidelines.'' The Cabinet Secretary citing the Parliamentary Affairs Ministry had ''only placed some of the overall points (on the Budget issue) before the Commission'' in response to its earlier letter. Similarly, the Defense Ministry on Jan 20 held the Combined Commanders' Conference in poll-bound Uttarakhand ignoring the ECs guidelines. The only rider that was provided --''almost as a concessional afterthought'' -- was that the Prime Minister, who inaugurated the Commanders' conference would not combine the event with an election rally in the poll-bound state, EC sources said. On the same day, NITI Aayog held special gram sabhas in the five poll-bound states without seeking the Commission's permission. This was despite the EC's guideline that such events can only be organised after the elections are over. The commissions letter was meant as a warning to the ministries not to follow the footsteps of the violators. Though the Commission can countermand an election invoking MCC, it has only done so once for the Haryana assembly bypoll.
Rakesh K Singh By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has directed the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) to immediately withdraw its anti-riot control Rapid Action Force (RAF) from irregular deployment in the states.

The move comes after an increasing tendency by the state police forces not to relieve RAF even after the situation returns to normalcy. According to the RAFs Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), its units are supposed to be relieved as soon as normalcy returns.

However, they were being deployed on normal duties such as visit of dignitaries and elections which dilute the deterrent effect of the force, and there was a need to sensitise the states.

If the SOPs are violated, the RAF can withdraw its companies from deployment unless expressly asked by the MHA for simultaneous concurrence.

Last year, two companies of RAFs 106 Battalion were deployed to maintain routine law and order at Rathyatra in Odishas Puri. In another instance, one company each of the Battalion was sent to Patna and Bhagalpur on law and order duty, and they remained for prolonged deployment in Bihar.

Following sudden communal tension, the companies had to be rushed to Mango in Jamshedpur within half an hour at 7.30 pm. They reached Jamshedpur at 7am after an overnight journey and had to be on duty for 36 hours before the situation could be controlled, according to documents with Express.

The CRPF had taken up the SOP violations with the home ministry in its series of letters over the last two years.

Meanwhile, the CRPF is considering a proposal to send RAF officials to foreign universities and training centres to undertake Public Order Management courses and learn the latest techniques of crowd control management followed worldwide.

As many as 10 battalions (10,000 personnel) of the CRPF are designated as RAF battalions and located tactically in major cities across the country keeping in mind proneness to communal riots. They can be deployed in zero response time to the crisis situation following the State Governments request.

NEW DELHI: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has directed the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) to immediately withdraw its anti-riot control Rapid Action Force (RAF) from irregular deployment in the states. The move comes after an increasing tendency by the state police forces not to relieve RAF even after the situation returns to normalcy. According to the RAFs Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), its units are supposed to be relieved as soon as normalcy returns. However, they were being deployed on normal duties such as visit of dignitaries and elections which dilute the deterrent effect of the force, and there was a need to sensitise the states. If the SOPs are violated, the RAF can withdraw its companies from deployment unless expressly asked by the MHA for simultaneous concurrence. Last year, two companies of RAFs 106 Battalion were deployed to maintain routine law and order at Rathyatra in Odishas Puri. In another instance, one company each of the Battalion was sent to Patna and Bhagalpur on law and order duty, and they remained for prolonged deployment in Bihar. Following sudden communal tension, the companies had to be rushed to Mango in Jamshedpur within half an hour at 7.30 pm. They reached Jamshedpur at 7am after an overnight journey and had to be on duty for 36 hours before the situation could be controlled, according to documents with Express. The CRPF had taken up the SOP violations with the home ministry in its series of letters over the last two years. Meanwhile, the CRPF is considering a proposal to send RAF officials to foreign universities and training centres to undertake Public Order Management courses and learn the latest techniques of crowd control management followed worldwide. As many as 10 battalions (10,000 personnel) of the CRPF are designated as RAF battalions and located tactically in major cities across the country keeping in mind proneness to communal riots. They can be deployed in zero response time to the crisis situation following the State Governments request.
By Express News Service

MANDREM: As he goes about campaigning in his constituency of Mandrem at the northern tip of Goa, chief minister Laxmikant Parsekar has two shadows looming over him.

As hes not the declared chief ministerial candidate of the BJP, he has to contend with relentless speculation that defence minister Manohar Parrikar will be paradropped back to Goa to take over the reins. And in Mandrem, he has to contend with the long shadow cast by the states first chief minister, Dayanand Bandodkar, still remembered for the work he did here.

Parsekar has won this seat three times. A former health minister of the state, he was appointed chief minister in 2014 when incumbent Parrikar was drafted into the Narendra Modi cabinet as defence minister. Now theres talk of Parrikar coming back, with BJP president Amit Shah making a rather ambiguous statement last week that if the party retains the state, the new government will function under Parrikar, irrespective of his posting.

In Mandrem itself, Parsekar faces a close contest from the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP), once preeminent in Goa when its government was led by Bandodkar, but much reduced now. The party wriggled out of an alliance with the BJP in December last year.

The MGP is trying to regain this constituency which had been its bastion till the 1998 Assembly polls, when a Congress candidate ousted it from here. As Goan constituencies go, it is a middling vote district, with about 32,000 voters. It has sent out two chief ministers to the Assembly: The first was Dayanand Bandodkar, who became CM in 1963 and the second is Parsekar.

Mandrem is a coastal tourist spot with two fine beaches and significant development, which is still attributed to Bandodkar.

The first chief minister, popularly known as Bhausaheb, was not a native of Mandrem but was drawn here by family connections. His work is still remembered. Says Sajo Pagi, an 81-year-old freedom fighter, It was a different world then. We rallied behind Bhausaheb and he proved us absolutely right. The kind of development he did in this constituency during his tenure can be seen even now.

The MGP may have slid from power, but a significant number of people here still support it.

The voters were confused after the MGP struck an alliance with the BJP. But now that the pact has come undone, they are back with the MGP, claimed 69-year-old Shridhar Mandrekar, the MGP candidate from Mandrem.

Parsekar himself acknowledges Bhausahebs work, but added that the party is on the wane.While the shadow of Parrikar looms over his own future, Parsekar goes about leveraging the possibility of him remaining the CM after the Feb. 4 vote. If you vote for another candidate, he will only be an MLA, not the CM, he says.

MANDREM: As he goes about campaigning in his constituency of Mandrem at the northern tip of Goa, chief minister Laxmikant Parsekar has two shadows looming over him. As hes not the declared chief ministerial candidate of the BJP, he has to contend with relentless speculation that defence minister Manohar Parrikar will be paradropped back to Goa to take over the reins. And in Mandrem, he has to contend with the long shadow cast by the states first chief minister, Dayanand Bandodkar, still remembered for the work he did here. Parsekar has won this seat three times. A former health minister of the state, he was appointed chief minister in 2014 when incumbent Parrikar was drafted into the Narendra Modi cabinet as defence minister. Now theres talk of Parrikar coming back, with BJP president Amit Shah making a rather ambiguous statement last week that if the party retains the state, the new government will function under Parrikar, irrespective of his posting. In Mandrem itself, Parsekar faces a close contest from the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP), once preeminent in Goa when its government was led by Bandodkar, but much reduced now. The party wriggled out of an alliance with the BJP in December last year. The MGP is trying to regain this constituency which had been its bastion till the 1998 Assembly polls, when a Congress candidate ousted it from here. As Goan constituencies go, it is a middling vote district, with about 32,000 voters. It has sent out two chief ministers to the Assembly: The first was Dayanand Bandodkar, who became CM in 1963 and the second is Parsekar. Mandrem is a coastal tourist spot with two fine beaches and significant development, which is still attributed to Bandodkar. The first chief minister, popularly known as Bhausaheb, was not a native of Mandrem but was drawn here by family connections. His work is still remembered. Says Sajo Pagi, an 81-year-old freedom fighter, It was a different world then. We rallied behind Bhausaheb and he proved us absolutely right. The kind of development he did in this constituency during his tenure can be seen even now. The MGP may have slid from power, but a significant number of people here still support it. The voters were confused after the MGP struck an alliance with the BJP. But now that the pact has come undone, they are back with the MGP, claimed 69-year-old Shridhar Mandrekar, the MGP candidate from Mandrem. Parsekar himself acknowledges Bhausahebs work, but added that the party is on the wane.While the shadow of Parrikar looms over his own future, Parsekar goes about leveraging the possibility of him remaining the CM after the Feb. 4 vote. If you vote for another candidate, he will only be an MLA, not the CM, he says.
Pradip R Sagar By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Madras Engineer Group won the best marching contingent amongst the Services participated in 68th Republic Day parade on Thursday.

Announcing the result on Saturday, the ministry of defence claimed that in the category of Para-Military Forces and other auxiliary marching contingents, Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) contingent has been adjudged the best marching contingent.

While in the tableau category, depicting the cultural diversity of India, total 23 tableaus including six from Union Ministries / Departments took part in this years Republic Day Parade. And the first position has gone to Arunachal Pradesh tableau, which depicted the Yak dance, one of the most famous pantomimes of the Mahayana sect of Buddhist tribes of Arunachal Pradesh. Tripuras tableau based on Hojagiri dance, representing Reang tribal dance was adjudged the second best, while the third position was shared by Maharashtra and Tamilnadu.

The tableau of Maharashtra depicted the commemoration of the 160th birth anniversary of the honoured freedom fighter, Lokmanya Balgangadhar Tilak. The Tamilnadu tableau portrayed the popular folk dance Karagattam which forms an important event in temple festival celebrations, especially in Amman temple festivals in the rural areas of Tamilnadu.

In the category of Union Ministries/Departments, the first prize was awarded to the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship which depicted the theme Transforming India through Skill Development, and highlighted the achievements of the Ministry and its programmes. The tableau presented by the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) depicting the concept of Green India-Clean India was selected for a special prize by the jury.

In the competitive category of school children items, the dance presented by Kendriya Vidyalaya, Pitampura, Delhi has been adjudged the best children item for their performance to express how our National Flag has been a witness to the glorious tales of our freedom fighters, establishment of Indian democracy, the endless affection of Indians, womens empowerment and such countless achievements.

A Consolation Prize has also been awarded to South Central Zone Cultural Centre, Nagpur for their performance of the Saila Karma dance which is a popular dance of the Gond Tribe of Dindori district in Madhya Pradesh.

NEW DELHI: Madras Engineer Group won the best marching contingent amongst the Services participated in 68th Republic Day parade on Thursday. Announcing the result on Saturday, the ministry of defence claimed that in the category of Para-Military Forces and other auxiliary marching contingents, Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) contingent has been adjudged the best marching contingent. While in the tableau category, depicting the cultural diversity of India, total 23 tableaus including six from Union Ministries / Departments took part in this years Republic Day Parade. And the first position has gone to Arunachal Pradesh tableau, which depicted the Yak dance, one of the most famous pantomimes of the Mahayana sect of Buddhist tribes of Arunachal Pradesh. Tripuras tableau based on Hojagiri dance, representing Reang tribal dance was adjudged the second best, while the third position was shared by Maharashtra and Tamilnadu. The tableau of Maharashtra depicted the commemoration of the 160th birth anniversary of the honoured freedom fighter, Lokmanya Balgangadhar Tilak. The Tamilnadu tableau portrayed the popular folk dance Karagattam which forms an important event in temple festival celebrations, especially in Amman temple festivals in the rural areas of Tamilnadu. In the category of Union Ministries/Departments, the first prize was awarded to the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship which depicted the theme Transforming India through Skill Development, and highlighted the achievements of the Ministry and its programmes. The tableau presented by the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) depicting the concept of Green India-Clean India was selected for a special prize by the jury. In the competitive category of school children items, the dance presented by Kendriya Vidyalaya, Pitampura, Delhi has been adjudged the best children item for their performance to express how our National Flag has been a witness to the glorious tales of our freedom fighters, establishment of Indian democracy, the endless affection of Indians, womens empowerment and such countless achievements. A Consolation Prize has also been awarded to South Central Zone Cultural Centre, Nagpur for their performance of the Saila Karma dance which is a popular dance of the Gond Tribe of Dindori district in Madhya Pradesh.
By Express News Service

GUWAHATI: As Manipur goes to the polls in March, all eyes are set on Surajkumar Singh, the son of three-time chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh from the Congress party.



London-educated Singh is making his debut in electoral politics from Khangabok constituency, held by his mother, Okram Landhoni, for the past 10 years. She is not seeking re-election having made way for her son.



Singh told Express that his focus areas would be the underprivileged section and the youth. I would like the youth, especially those from my constituency, to get jobs although not necessarily within the government. I would like to work with them and see they get jobs matching their skills. In this regard, we are planning to start various skill training programmes, the 29-year-old said.



An economics graduate from Londons Kingston University, Singh has been a state-level paddler and a polo player as well. He is married and has a son.



The young politician will contest against BJPs Manipur unit vice-president Jadumani, among others.



On his decision of taking part in the elections, he pointed out that it was a decision of the people of the constituency and not his family. The constituency has been like a family for us for the last 30 years. As my mother wished to retire, people wanted me to contest and work for them, he said.



There are a lot of things that can be done. I would like to work for the underprivileged. The youth in the constituency are very excited that I am contesting, he said.



Singh could be a novice in electoral politics but he is no stranger to the people of Manipur. He has been working at the grassroots level since his return from the UK in 2011. I know people will expect a lot from me as I am the chief ministers son. I will work tirelessly for them if elected, he claimed.



GUWAHATI: As Manipur goes to the polls in March, all eyes are set on Surajkumar Singh, the son of three-time chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh from the Congress party. London-educated Singh is making his debut in electoral politics from Khangabok constituency, held by his mother, Okram Landhoni, for the past 10 years. She is not seeking re-election having made way for her son. Singh told Express that his focus areas would be the underprivileged section and the youth. I would like the youth, especially those from my constituency, to get jobs although not necessarily within the government. I would like to work with them and see they get jobs matching their skills. In this regard, we are planning to start various skill training programmes, the 29-year-old said. An economics graduate from Londons Kingston University, Singh has been a state-level paddler and a polo player as well. He is married and has a son. The young politician will contest against BJPs Manipur unit vice-president Jadumani, among others. On his decision of taking part in the elections, he pointed out that it was a decision of the people of the constituency and not his family. The constituency has been like a family for us for the last 30 years. As my mother wished to retire, people wanted me to contest and work for them, he said. There are a lot of things that can be done. I would like to work for the underprivileged. The youth in the constituency are very excited that I am contesting, he said. Singh could be a novice in electoral politics but he is no stranger to the people of Manipur. He has been working at the grassroots level since his return from the UK in 2011. I know people will expect a lot from me as I am the chief ministers son. I will work tirelessly for them if elected, he claimed.
Prasanta Mazumdar By

Express News Service

GUWAHATI: Tribal organisations on Saturday effected a bandh in Nagaland protesting against the state governments decision to conduct the February 1 urban local body elections.

The Joint Co-ordination Committee, that consists of influential tribal bodies, is boycotting the polls as the government has reserved 33% seats for women in the civic bodies.

According to reports, there were sporadic incidents of violence in the commercial hub Dimapur. The protestors pelted stones at vehicles and also limited the movement of ambulances.

The district magistrate had convened a meeting with the election officials at the Dimapur Government College but the protestors laid siege to the institute not allowing the officials to enter it. Except for some places in eastern Nagaland, the bandh was effective everywhere else.

The State Cabinet on Friday decided not to defer the polls as demanded by the tribal organisations and the opposition, Congress.

Adequate arrangements may be taken by the administration and police for smooth conduct of the elections. However, the State government is ready for dialogues with the tribal organisations to explain its position, the chief

ministers office said in a statement.

The Nagas are governed by customary laws, which are protected under Article 371(A) of the Constitution. The tribal bodies argue that quota will infringe upon the Article since the customary laws do not endorse quota. They insist that

Article 371(A) provides full authority to the Nagas to decide their fate.

The Municipal Act infringes upon Article 371(A). If we protect the power of 371(A), no law of India can disturb us, said Vilhousa Seleyi, president of Angami Public Organisation.

We wont mind if women contest the elections and get elected but we wont accept a quota for them, said Toniho Yepthomi, the president of Sumi Hoho.

Nagaland has 16 recognised tribes and each has its own apex organisation. Any decision taken by these male-dominated bodies are final and binding on people. At the village level, the Village Councils wield such powers.

Now that the polls are lined up, there is a perception people may not turn up fearing the wrath of such organisations.

Earlier, some apex bodies of the tribes had asked the candidates to withdraw from the polls or face excommunication. Subsequently, 140 candidates of various political parties and tribes pulled out. There are 395 candidates in the fray contesting 26 town and municipal councils.

Six others recorded no nomination at all. Of the 395 candidates, 17 belonging to the Ao tribe, have been stripped of their social and customary rights/status and ex-communicated from the Ao citizenship for 30 years by their apex organisation Ao Senden. Action against the remaining candidates is likely if they do not fall in line by January 31.

GUWAHATI: Tribal organisations on Saturday effected a bandh in Nagaland protesting against the state governments decision to conduct the February 1 urban local body elections. The Joint Co-ordination Committee, that consists of influential tribal bodies, is boycotting the polls as the government has reserved 33% seats for women in the civic bodies. According to reports, there were sporadic incidents of violence in the commercial hub Dimapur. The protestors pelted stones at vehicles and also limited the movement of ambulances. The district magistrate had convened a meeting with the election officials at the Dimapur Government College but the protestors laid siege to the institute not allowing the officials to enter it. Except for some places in eastern Nagaland, the bandh was effective everywhere else. The State Cabinet on Friday decided not to defer the polls as demanded by the tribal organisations and the opposition, Congress. Adequate arrangements may be taken by the administration and police for smooth conduct of the elections. However, the State government is ready for dialogues with the tribal organisations to explain its position, the chief ministers office said in a statement. The Nagas are governed by customary laws, which are protected under Article 371(A) of the Constitution. The tribal bodies argue that quota will infringe upon the Article since the customary laws do not endorse quota. They insist that Article 371(A) provides full authority to the Nagas to decide their fate. The Municipal Act infringes upon Article 371(A). If we protect the power of 371(A), no law of India can disturb us, said Vilhousa Seleyi, president of Angami Public Organisation. We wont mind if women contest the elections and get elected but we wont accept a quota for them, said Toniho Yepthomi, the president of Sumi Hoho. Nagaland has 16 recognised tribes and each has its own apex organisation. Any decision taken by these male-dominated bodies are final and binding on people. At the village level, the Village Councils wield such powers. Now that the polls are lined up, there is a perception people may not turn up fearing the wrath of such organisations. Earlier, some apex bodies of the tribes had asked the candidates to withdraw from the polls or face excommunication. Subsequently, 140 candidates of various political parties and tribes pulled out. There are 395 candidates in the fray contesting 26 town and municipal councils. Six others recorded no nomination at all. Of the 395 candidates, 17 belonging to the Ao tribe, have been stripped of their social and customary rights/status and ex-communicated from the Ao citizenship for 30 years by their apex organisation Ao Senden. Action against the remaining candidates is likely if they do not fall in line by January 31.
By Express News Service

JALALABAD: Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi on Friday stormed Sukhbir Singh Badals stronghold here terming him the `king of corruption' in India and warning the people of Punjab against the false promises of the dictatorial Arvind Kejriwal.

Taking a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Delhi Chief Minister and National Convener of AAP Arvind Kejriwal for making all kinds of false promises to the people of the country and Delhi, respectively, Rahul said the Congress did not believe in making such fake promises but was committed to delivering on all its promises.

Referring to Modis promise of putting Rs 15 lakh in every poor persons account and fighting corruption through demonetisation, Rahul said anyone can make such false promises but Punjab needed development, not tall claims. He also hit out at Kejriwals complete failure in fulfilling any of his promises in Delhi, saying the people of the national capital could endorse the poor performance of the AAP government.

Rahul lashed out at Modi for sharing the dais with `Indias most corrupt man (Sukhbir Singh Badal) after claiming to be fighting against corruption, and said neither the prime minister nor the Delhi chief minister could be trusted to look after the concerns of Punjabis.

Lashing out at Kejriwal, Rahul said he was eyeing Punjabs chief ministership as he wanted to run away from Delhi, where he had been thoroughly exposed. Drawing parallels, being the dictatorial way in which Modi was running the country and Kejriwals performance in Delhi, Rahul asked the people of Punjab to take their promises with a pinch of salt.

Describing Capt Amarinder Singh as the pradhan (chief) of the party and the chief-minister-to-be of the state, the Congress star campaigner and Amritsar East candidate Navjot Singh Sidhu said Akali Dal would become `Khali Dal after the polls.

The Akalis reign of terror is like what was unleashed by the Chautalas in Haryana, and see where they are today, said Sidhu, citing the false cases and other crimes against the people of Punjab under the Badal rule.

Sidhu also lambasted AAP for its designs on Punjab, saying after the East India Company looted the country now it was AAP which wanted to come from Delhi to loot Punjab through a remote control.

He exhorted the people to ask Kejriwal who would be their CM candidate, and added that he was offered Deputy CM post by the AAP leader but had demanded to know who the candidate for CM would be, which Kejriwal failed to answer.

Kejriwal was a liar who allied with the Congress after swearing on his children that he would not do so, said Sidhu, warning the people that AAP would try to buy their votes and self-pride with money, liquor etc.

Capt Amarinder Singh said. Vade nu te main Lambi vich sut kar rahanga (I will throw Senior Badal out in Lambi), he said, adding that Sukhbir would be wiped out in Jalalabad by the people.

He explained that besides contesting his last election from Patiala, where he started his political career, he will also contest the polls from Lambi in order to teach Badal a lesson.

JALALABAD: Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi on Friday stormed Sukhbir Singh Badals stronghold here terming him the `king of corruption' in India and warning the people of Punjab against the false promises of the dictatorial Arvind Kejriwal. Taking a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Delhi Chief Minister and National Convener of AAP Arvind Kejriwal for making all kinds of false promises to the people of the country and Delhi, respectively, Rahul said the Congress did not believe in making such fake promises but was committed to delivering on all its promises. Referring to Modis promise of putting Rs 15 lakh in every poor persons account and fighting corruption through demonetisation, Rahul said anyone can make such false promises but Punjab needed development, not tall claims. He also hit out at Kejriwals complete failure in fulfilling any of his promises in Delhi, saying the people of the national capital could endorse the poor performance of the AAP government. Rahul lashed out at Modi for sharing the dais with `Indias most corrupt man (Sukhbir Singh Badal) after claiming to be fighting against corruption, and said neither the prime minister nor the Delhi chief minister could be trusted to look after the concerns of Punjabis. Lashing out at Kejriwal, Rahul said he was eyeing Punjabs chief ministership as he wanted to run away from Delhi, where he had been thoroughly exposed. Drawing parallels, being the dictatorial way in which Modi was running the country and Kejriwals performance in Delhi, Rahul asked the people of Punjab to take their promises with a pinch of salt. Describing Capt Amarinder Singh as the pradhan (chief) of the party and the chief-minister-to-be of the state, the Congress star campaigner and Amritsar East candidate Navjot Singh Sidhu said Akali Dal would become `Khali Dal after the polls. The Akalis reign of terror is like what was unleashed by the Chautalas in Haryana, and see where they are today, said Sidhu, citing the false cases and other crimes against the people of Punjab under the Badal rule. Sidhu also lambasted AAP for its designs on Punjab, saying after the East India Company looted the country now it was AAP which wanted to come from Delhi to loot Punjab through a remote control. He exhorted the people to ask Kejriwal who would be their CM candidate, and added that he was offered Deputy CM post by the AAP leader but had demanded to know who the candidate for CM would be, which Kejriwal failed to answer. Kejriwal was a liar who allied with the Congress after swearing on his children that he would not do so, said Sidhu, warning the people that AAP would try to buy their votes and self-pride with money, liquor etc. Capt Amarinder Singh said. Vade nu te main Lambi vich sut kar rahanga (I will throw Senior Badal out in Lambi), he said, adding that Sukhbir would be wiped out in Jalalabad by the people. He explained that besides contesting his last election from Patiala, where he started his political career, he will also contest the polls from Lambi in order to teach Badal a lesson.
Anand S T Das By

Express News Service

PATNA: After the political heat generated by demonetisation led to cracks in Bihars ruling alliance becoming more prominent, a renewed cry about the states victimhood in economic and industrial matters may help stitch the rift.

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), the party with the largest number of MLAs in the grand alliance government led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, plans to organise a campaign to pressure the Centre to grant Bihar special category state status, indicated party leaders. They believe it will put a resurgent Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Bihar on the mat and throw a hot potato at the Modi-led Centre while widening RJDs acceptance levels among Bihars masses.



Lalu Yadav wants a vigorous public campaign for special state status for Bihar. State finance minister Abdul Bari Siddiqui has set the stage for it, said an RJD leader, referring to the demands raised by Siddiqui at the pre-budget meeting of state finance ministers in Delhi earlier this month.

The call for special category state status was made by JD(U) when it ruled the state in alliance with the BJP. They put tremendous pressure on the UPA-II Central government then. Dozens of rallies on the issue addressed by Nitish Kumar and a statewide signature campaign helped JD(U) consolidate its position among the masses in Bihar.

RJD, which was then an ally of the Congress-led Centre and the main Opposition party in Bihar, had not been keen on the issue. But now, with it being the biggest party in Bihars grand alliance and the Centre having a BJP government, Lalu is serious about leading the call for special status.

We have demanded funding by the Centre for Bihars rapid growth. PM Narendra Modi had announced an economic package of `1.25 lakh crore ahead of the Assembly elections in October-November 2015. But Central funds aid remains inadequate, said Siddiqui.

RJD leaders know that JD(U), whose support for demonetisation created differences in the ruling alliance, will support the special category state.

Some RJD leaders describe the partys plans to lead a public campaign as stealing JD(U)s thunder. The two parties still do not see eye to eye on many issues and engage in subtle one-upmanships.

Special category state status is a very legitimate demand of Bihar and the Centre cannot escape any longer, said RJD legislator Bhai Birendra.

PATNA: After the political heat generated by demonetisation led to cracks in Bihars ruling alliance becoming more prominent, a renewed cry about the states victimhood in economic and industrial matters may help stitch the rift. Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), the party with the largest number of MLAs in the grand alliance government led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, plans to organise a campaign to pressure the Centre to grant Bihar special category state status, indicated party leaders. They believe it will put a resurgent Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Bihar on the mat and throw a hot potato at the Modi-led Centre while widening RJDs acceptance levels among Bihars masses. Lalu Yadav wants a vigorous public campaign for special state status for Bihar. State finance minister Abdul Bari Siddiqui has set the stage for it, said an RJD leader, referring to the demands raised by Siddiqui at the pre-budget meeting of state finance ministers in Delhi earlier this month. The call for special category state status was made by JD(U) when it ruled the state in alliance with the BJP. They put tremendous pressure on the UPA-II Central government then. Dozens of rallies on the issue addressed by Nitish Kumar and a statewide signature campaign helped JD(U) consolidate its position among the masses in Bihar. RJD, which was then an ally of the Congress-led Centre and the main Opposition party in Bihar, had not been keen on the issue. But now, with it being the biggest party in Bihars grand alliance and the Centre having a BJP government, Lalu is serious about leading the call for special status. We have demanded funding by the Centre for Bihars rapid growth. PM Narendra Modi had announced an economic package of `1.25 lakh crore ahead of the Assembly elections in October-November 2015. But Central funds aid remains inadequate, said Siddiqui. RJD leaders know that JD(U), whose support for demonetisation created differences in the ruling alliance, will support the special category state. Some RJD leaders describe the partys plans to lead a public campaign as stealing JD(U)s thunder. The two parties still do not see eye to eye on many issues and engage in subtle one-upmanships. Special category state status is a very legitimate demand of Bihar and the Centre cannot escape any longer, said RJD legislator Bhai Birendra.
By PTI

VARANASI: Days after declaring a "grand" temple will be built in Ayodhya if BJP gets majority, state unit chief Keshav Prasad Maurya today sought to make amends saying it would be built after Supreme Court order but Uttar Pradesh will see 'Ram Rajya' if his party wrests power.

Addressing a press conference at the party office at Gulab-bagh in Sigra here, he exuded confidence the BJP will form the government in the state and "restore law & order" and put "goons" behind the bars.

"Ram temple will be built in Ayodhya only after the order of the Supreme court, but 'Ram Rajya' will soon prevail in the state with the party sweeping the UP assembly polls," he said.

Speaking to reporters in Delhi on January 24, Maurya had said, "Ram Mandir is a subject of faith. It is not going to be built in two months. The temple will be constructed after the elections. BJP will come to power with a full majority."

On protest after distribution of party tickets, he said tickets have been given after a survey and winnability and they tickets would not be replaced.

He said lodging protest for ticket is the "culture of BSP and SP workers" and not of his party's, and added the upset party workers would be listened to and those who have been skipped "genuinely" would get "due respect" in "near future".

Atacking Congress party, Maurya said it was struggling to save its image in the state and the "experiment" of making Priyanka Gandhi a star campaigner will not help them.

He said his party will win over 300 seats and form the next government in the state.

He also said the "goons from SP and BSP" won't be spared and the next BJP government will send them behind the bars.

He said the party will fight this election on the issue of eliminating corruption, bringing development ushering in 'Ram Rajya'.

Amidst strong protests from the supporters of a sitting seven-time Varanasi (South)MLA, Shyam Deo Roy Chaudhary, Maurya went to his residence and asked him to campaign in support of the party and its candidates.

However, when contacted Chaudhary said, "As a party member associated since the Jan Sangh time, denying ticket by the party was an attack on my self-respect, which I earned in the last 35 years of my career but now it is completely lost."

He said, "Maurya told me that party will give me due respect in future but I have demanded the ticket from the same Assembly seat. He (Maurya) sought a 2-3 days time for me to respond.

"The Party should make clear what is the 'respect' it is going to offer me after insulting me," he said, asking "they should give justification that why they had denied ticket to me for a seat that I had been winning for the last 35 years?"

The veteran MLA though made it clear he will neither change party nor will contest as an Independent.

"I will sit down at my home but will not contest against the new candidate from my party, who replaced me," he said.

"I don't want to spoil my image by changing my party to which I have given a selfless service," he said.

VARANASI: Days after declaring a "grand" temple will be built in Ayodhya if BJP gets majority, state unit chief Keshav Prasad Maurya today sought to make amends saying it would be built after Supreme Court order but Uttar Pradesh will see 'Ram Rajya' if his party wrests power. Addressing a press conference at the party office at Gulab-bagh in Sigra here, he exuded confidence the BJP will form the government in the state and "restore law & order" and put "goons" behind the bars. "Ram temple will be built in Ayodhya only after the order of the Supreme court, but 'Ram Rajya' will soon prevail in the state with the party sweeping the UP assembly polls," he said. Speaking to reporters in Delhi on January 24, Maurya had said, "Ram Mandir is a subject of faith. It is not going to be built in two months. The temple will be constructed after the elections. BJP will come to power with a full majority." On protest after distribution of party tickets, he said tickets have been given after a survey and winnability and they tickets would not be replaced. He said lodging protest for ticket is the "culture of BSP and SP workers" and not of his party's, and added the upset party workers would be listened to and those who have been skipped "genuinely" would get "due respect" in "near future". Atacking Congress party, Maurya said it was struggling to save its image in the state and the "experiment" of making Priyanka Gandhi a star campaigner will not help them. He said his party will win over 300 seats and form the next government in the state. He also said the "goons from SP and BSP" won't be spared and the next BJP government will send them behind the bars. He said the party will fight this election on the issue of eliminating corruption, bringing development ushering in 'Ram Rajya'. Amidst strong protests from the supporters of a sitting seven-time Varanasi (South)MLA, Shyam Deo Roy Chaudhary, Maurya went to his residence and asked him to campaign in support of the party and its candidates. However, when contacted Chaudhary said, "As a party member associated since the Jan Sangh time, denying ticket by the party was an attack on my self-respect, which I earned in the last 35 years of my career but now it is completely lost." He said, "Maurya told me that party will give me due respect in future but I have demanded the ticket from the same Assembly seat. He (Maurya) sought a 2-3 days time for me to respond. "The Party should make clear what is the 'respect' it is going to offer me after insulting me," he said, asking "they should give justification that why they had denied ticket to me for a seat that I had been winning for the last 35 years?" The veteran MLA though made it clear he will neither change party nor will contest as an Independent. "I will sit down at my home but will not contest against the new candidate from my party, who replaced me," he said. "I don't want to spoil my image by changing my party to which I have given a selfless service," he said.
By PTI

LUCKNOW: With the catchline 'UP ko yeh saath pasand hai', Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav and Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi will set out for a joint campaign here tomorrow for the high stakes Assembly elections in the state.



The two leaders, who will come together for the first time after Congress and SP reached a pre-poll alliance with an aim to bag over 300 of the 403 Assembly seats up for grabs, will set the tone for the electioneering with a press conference and a road show.



"The two leaders will address a joint press conference in Lucknow tomorrow afternoon to give a clear message not just to their respective party cadres but also the people of the state of a united effort of the two parties to defeat communal parties," a senior SP leader told PTI today.

A joint poster with the slogan 'UP ko yeh saath pasand hai' having the pictures of both Rahul and Akhilesh and their respective party symbols will also be released on the occasion.



The 'tricolour' and 'red and green' colours of both the parties will form the border of the posters.

After the press interaction, the two leaders will hold a joint road show across the densely populated areas of the state capital, he said, adding that the road show will start from Gandhi Statue in the Hazratganj area.



The route of the road show has been decided so that it also covers the Muslim-dominated areas besides the areas which have concentration of the youth population.



The two top leaders were previously expected to make a joint announcement about the alliance on January 22, but later the two state chiefs Raj Babbar (Congress) and Naresh Uttam (SP) announced the deal jointly.



Insiders said that joint rallies were also being planned by the two parties at a later stage.



They said the joint press conference would remove any confusion in the minds of voters on the tie-up between the two parties.

Rahul said Congress delivers what it promises to the people unlike other parties who allegedly betray people after coming to power.



Attacking Arvind Kejriwal and AAP, Rahul said the Delhi CM had promised to voters that he will transform Delhi if his party comes to power there, but "now various sections were up against them for befooling the people".



"Ask autorickshaw wallahs, slum dwellers, safai karamcharis, poor, they will tell you the reality," he said hitting out at AAP.



Rahul also said that Kejriwal knows fully well that his game is over in Delhi and he is facing public wrath there, which is why now he wants to become "Punjab's CM".



He, however, said that people of Punjab will never chose an "outsider".



Rahul also said that Congress has always stood for and will always stand for the welfare of the poor, downtrodden, Dalits, small farmers, labourers and other weaker sections and appealed to the public to give the party a chance to serve them in Punjab.



He also talked about the problems faced by the common people in the wake of demonetisation.



Notably, Jalalabad Assembly constituency is witnessing a high-profile contest this time, with two MP of rival parties throwing their hat in the ring to take on Sukhbir Badal.



While Congress has fielded its Ludhiana MP Ravneet Singh Bittu to take on Sukhbir Badal, AAP has fielded its Sangrur MP Bhagwant Mann from the seat.



Rahul yesterday began his Punjab tour by addressing a rally at Majitha, from where Cabinet Minister and Punjab Deputy CM Sukhbir Badal's brother-in-law, Bikram Singh Majithia is seeking re-election for third term.

LUCKNOW: With the catchline 'UP ko yeh saath pasand hai', Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav and Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi will set out for a joint campaign here tomorrow for the high stakes Assembly elections in the state. The two leaders, who will come together for the first time after Congress and SP reached a pre-poll alliance with an aim to bag over 300 of the 403 Assembly seats up for grabs, will set the tone for the electioneering with a press conference and a road show. "The two leaders will address a joint press conference in Lucknow tomorrow afternoon to give a clear message not just to their respective party cadres but also the people of the state of a united effort of the two parties to defeat communal parties," a senior SP leader told PTI today. A joint poster with the slogan 'UP ko yeh saath pasand hai' having the pictures of both Rahul and Akhilesh and their respective party symbols will also be released on the occasion. The 'tricolour' and 'red and green' colours of both the parties will form the border of the posters. After the press interaction, the two leaders will hold a joint road show across the densely populated areas of the state capital, he said, adding that the road show will start from Gandhi Statue in the Hazratganj area. The route of the road show has been decided so that it also covers the Muslim-dominated areas besides the areas which have concentration of the youth population. The two top leaders were previously expected to make a joint announcement about the alliance on January 22, but later the two state chiefs Raj Babbar (Congress) and Naresh Uttam (SP) announced the deal jointly. Insiders said that joint rallies were also being planned by the two parties at a later stage. They said the joint press conference would remove any confusion in the minds of voters on the tie-up between the two parties. Rahul said Congress delivers what it promises to the people unlike other parties who allegedly betray people after coming to power. Attacking Arvind Kejriwal and AAP, Rahul said the Delhi CM had promised to voters that he will transform Delhi if his party comes to power there, but "now various sections were up against them for befooling the people". "Ask autorickshaw wallahs, slum dwellers, safai karamcharis, poor, they will tell you the reality," he said hitting out at AAP. Rahul also said that Kejriwal knows fully well that his game is over in Delhi and he is facing public wrath there, which is why now he wants to become "Punjab's CM". He, however, said that people of Punjab will never chose an "outsider". Rahul also said that Congress has always stood for and will always stand for the welfare of the poor, downtrodden, Dalits, small farmers, labourers and other weaker sections and appealed to the public to give the party a chance to serve them in Punjab. He also talked about the problems faced by the common people in the wake of demonetisation. Notably, Jalalabad Assembly constituency is witnessing a high-profile contest this time, with two MP of rival parties throwing their hat in the ring to take on Sukhbir Badal. While Congress has fielded its Ludhiana MP Ravneet Singh Bittu to take on Sukhbir Badal, AAP has fielded its Sangrur MP Bhagwant Mann from the seat. Rahul yesterday began his Punjab tour by addressing a rally at Majitha, from where Cabinet Minister and Punjab Deputy CM Sukhbir Badal's brother-in-law, Bikram Singh Majithia is seeking re-election for third term.
By ANI

NEW DELHI: Continuing to play the victim card, chairperson of defunct Kingfisher Airlines, Vijay Mallya on Saturday demanded evidence from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Security Exchange Board of India (SEBI) so as to justify the fraud charges they have levelled against him.



The liquor baron, who has been accused of diversion of funds from Kingfisher Airlines, took to his Twitter handle asking the media to question the CBI and SEBI to furnish proof on the basis of which latter are levelling charges against him.



Before slamming me ask CBI and SEBI some tough questions on what proof or evidence they have to allege fraud, Mallya tweeted.



Slamming the news channels for distorting facts for sensationalism, Mallya asked the media to not to get carried away with one sided allegations.



In a series of tweets Mallya also said that he had been interrogated by the CBI and submitted documentary evidence, wherein not one Rupee was misused.



Asserting that KFA being the largest domestic Airline was the worst hit, he added, Government bailed out Air India but did not bail out KFA. So much for "favours.



The flamboyant businessman had earlier rubbished SEBI's allegations of indulging in fraudulent activities and said that he is getting used to these witch hunts coming from all directions with no legal basis whatsoever.



"Allegations of fund diversion out of USL are baseless. USL accounts were approved by top Auditors, an eminent Board of Directors in shareholders," Mallya had said, adding this shows what government machinery can do.



The market regulator SEBI has barred Mallya from the stock market for fraudulently diverting about Rs. 1,881 crore from United Spirits (USL) to various other entities within the UB Group, including now grounded Kingfisher Airlines (KFA).



It also instructed USL to report to SEBI, within 21 days, about the action it has initiated against Mallya, Capoor and others.



Along with Mallya, SEBI also barred another six people including Ashok Capoor and V K Rekhi, both former MDs of USL from the market. Capoor has also been barred from directorship of any listed company.

NEW DELHI: Continuing to play the victim card, chairperson of defunct Kingfisher Airlines, Vijay Mallya on Saturday demanded evidence from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Security Exchange Board of India (SEBI) so as to justify the fraud charges they have levelled against him. The liquor baron, who has been accused of diversion of funds from Kingfisher Airlines, took to his Twitter handle asking the media to question the CBI and SEBI to furnish proof on the basis of which latter are levelling charges against him. Before slamming me ask CBI and SEBI some tough questions on what proof or evidence they have to allege fraud, Mallya tweeted. Slamming the news channels for distorting facts for sensationalism, Mallya asked the media to not to get carried away with one sided allegations. In a series of tweets Mallya also said that he had been interrogated by the CBI and submitted documentary evidence, wherein not one Rupee was misused. Asserting that KFA being the largest domestic Airline was the worst hit, he added, Government bailed out Air India but did not bail out KFA. So much for "favours. The flamboyant businessman had earlier rubbished SEBI's allegations of indulging in fraudulent activities and said that he is getting used to these witch hunts coming from all directions with no legal basis whatsoever. "Allegations of fund diversion out of USL are baseless. USL accounts were approved by top Auditors, an eminent Board of Directors in shareholders," Mallya had said, adding this shows what government machinery can do. The market regulator SEBI has barred Mallya from the stock market for fraudulently diverting about Rs. 1,881 crore from United Spirits (USL) to various other entities within the UB Group, including now grounded Kingfisher Airlines (KFA). It also instructed USL to report to SEBI, within 21 days, about the action it has initiated against Mallya, Capoor and others. Along with Mallya, SEBI also barred another six people including Ashok Capoor and V K Rekhi, both former MDs of USL from the market. Capoor has also been barred from directorship of any listed company.
Harpreet Bajwa By

Express News Service

PATIALA: With Punjab set to witness an intriguing electoral battle between the Shiromani Akali Dal-Bharatiya Janata Party (SAD-BJP) alliance, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Congressthe parties have fielded key leaders in the major constituencies. Former Punjab Chief Minister (CM) and Congress president Amarinder Singh is contesting against former Army chief General J J Singh (retd) from Patiala and Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal from Lambi.

While Badal senior had won four consecutive terms from Lambi, the constituency now reveals an undercurrent of dissent against the incumbent. It was the AAP which first upped the ante on the Lambi seat by fielding Delhi MLA Jarnail Singh, who hogged the limelight for throwing a shoe at then Union home minister P Chidambaram in 2009, to take on Badal senior.

A confident Amarinder says he would cook Badals goose on his home turf. I am contesting from Lambi as I want to teach a lesson to those who have looted Punjab, said Amarinder.

Lambi falls in the Malout subdivision of Muktsar district, part of the Bathinda parliamentary constituency represented in the Lok Sabha by Union minister Harsimrat Badal, the CMs daughter-in-law. Badal village, where the CM hails from, is part of this constituency.

AAP convenor and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal left no stones unturned as he held five rallies in the constituency last week. He will do five more, said Jarnail, brushing aside SAD and Congress attack on him for being an outsider. Jarnail added that his grandparents had also moved from Lahore during the partition. However, they chose to settle in Delhi, that is the only difference and it does not make me an outsider, he said.

Besides J J Singh, Amarinder has another serious opponent in Dr Balbir Singh from the AAP in Patiala. With splits in AAP, MP Dr Dharamvir Gandhi, who was suspended from the party, has fielded his own candidates. During the last three elections, Amarinder has consistently improved upon his victory margin. In 2012, it was about 40,000 votes. This was despite the fact that he visited the city only twice. Despite the number of contenders or how serious and challenging they may tend to be,

Amarinder remains on a sound footing in Patiala, his family borough.

In Lehragaga, another battle is raging between finance minister Parminder Singh Dhindsa of SAD, who is pitted against former CM and Congress veteran Rajinder Kaur Bhattal.

During her campaign, Bhattal told the people that Parminder is an outsider. Parminder betrayed Sunam. He needs to explain that what made him to run away (sic) from there and betray the people of the segment represented by him.

Dhindsa, son of former Union minister and Akali stalwart Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, terms Bhattal as an outsider who did nothing for the constituency she has been representing for the last 25 years.

PATIALA: With Punjab set to witness an intriguing electoral battle between the Shiromani Akali Dal-Bharatiya Janata Party (SAD-BJP) alliance, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Congressthe parties have fielded key leaders in the major constituencies. Former Punjab Chief Minister (CM) and Congress president Amarinder Singh is contesting against former Army chief General J J Singh (retd) from Patiala and Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal from Lambi. While Badal senior had won four consecutive terms from Lambi, the constituency now reveals an undercurrent of dissent against the incumbent. It was the AAP which first upped the ante on the Lambi seat by fielding Delhi MLA Jarnail Singh, who hogged the limelight for throwing a shoe at then Union home minister P Chidambaram in 2009, to take on Badal senior. A confident Amarinder says he would cook Badals goose on his home turf. I am contesting from Lambi as I want to teach a lesson to those who have looted Punjab, said Amarinder. Lambi falls in the Malout subdivision of Muktsar district, part of the Bathinda parliamentary constituency represented in the Lok Sabha by Union minister Harsimrat Badal, the CMs daughter-in-law. Badal village, where the CM hails from, is part of this constituency. AAP convenor and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal left no stones unturned as he held five rallies in the constituency last week. He will do five more, said Jarnail, brushing aside SAD and Congress attack on him for being an outsider. Jarnail added that his grandparents had also moved from Lahore during the partition. However, they chose to settle in Delhi, that is the only difference and it does not make me an outsider, he said. Besides J J Singh, Amarinder has another serious opponent in Dr Balbir Singh from the AAP in Patiala. With splits in AAP, MP Dr Dharamvir Gandhi, who was suspended from the party, has fielded his own candidates. During the last three elections, Amarinder has consistently improved upon his victory margin. In 2012, it was about 40,000 votes. This was despite the fact that he visited the city only twice. Despite the number of contenders or how serious and challenging they may tend to be, Amarinder remains on a sound footing in Patiala, his family borough. In Lehragaga, another battle is raging between finance minister Parminder Singh Dhindsa of SAD, who is pitted against former CM and Congress veteran Rajinder Kaur Bhattal. During her campaign, Bhattal told the people that Parminder is an outsider. Parminder betrayed Sunam. He needs to explain that what made him to run away (sic) from there and betray the people of the segment represented by him. Dhindsa, son of former Union minister and Akali stalwart Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, terms Bhattal as an outsider who did nothing for the constituency she has been representing for the last 25 years.
By Express News Service

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The spate of political murders in Kannur has assumed a new dimension with the bomb attack at the venue of a political meeting attended by CPM state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan. While the Left in Kerala suspects a deliberate attempt to create an impression of law and order failure whenever the LDF comes to power, the BJP leadership has toughened its stand stating it will be sleepless nights for leaders who ordered the killing of BJP/RSS men.

The LDF leaders are of the view that the attack on Kodiyeri, close on the heels of a protest organised by the RSS against Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in New Delhi the other day, cannot be viewed in isolation.

In a statement here, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan strongly condemned the attack on the CPM state secretary. Terming the action uncontrolled aggressiveness, Pinarayi said stringent action would be taken against those responsible for the incident.

Meanwhile, BJP national executive member V Muraleedharan said the BJP men were not slaughtered cows to sacrifice their lives everyday unilaterally to maintain peace in the state.

In his Facebook post, Muraleedharan said peace cant be brought unilaterally when the ruling party does not want it. It is a very serious situation to see the BJP workers getting killed every day when the party is in power at the Centre. We have no reluctance to revisit our past to tame the CPM goons. We havent forgotten anything. If we are after it, we will see to it that the roots of CPM are dug out he said.

The BJP leader said he would not mind if his statement was interpreted as a threat by the CPM and those paid writers who selectively comment against the BJP.

It will be sleepless nights ahead for those who have killed our workers and those who have ordered to kill. Not even Pinarayi Vijayan will be able to save such killers. Justice will be dispensed definitely he said.

The FB post has triggered reactions from both sides. While some of the comments were apparently made out of emotional outburst, some were self-critical.

PJ Vishnu demanded the intervention of the Union Government to stop the killings. One of the major demands raised in the post is the deployment of Central forces in Kannur. In the open letter, he asked whether the leadership doesnt believe that the cadre in Kannur had the right to live.

The CPM state secretariat termed the incident an attempt to create tension. The move is to spread violence and create tension at programmes attended by senior CPM leaders, the state secretariat said in a statement and warned the party cadres not to fall in the Sangh Parivar trap.

LDF convener Vaikom Viswan alleged it was an attempt to spark violence. The BJP and RSS have been creating tension in the region for some time, he said.

CPI state secretary Kanam Rajendran said the Sangh Parivar was trying to create an impression of failure in law and order situation. It can only be viewed as part of an agenda set by the Sangh Parivar which has been demanding Central intervention in the state, in the backdrop of incidents in Kannur. He demanded urgent intervention by the State Government to bring the culprits before the law.

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The spate of political murders in Kannur has assumed a new dimension with the bomb attack at the venue of a political meeting attended by CPM state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan. While the Left in Kerala suspects a deliberate attempt to create an impression of law and order failure whenever the LDF comes to power, the BJP leadership has toughened its stand stating it will be sleepless nights for leaders who ordered the killing of BJP/RSS men. The LDF leaders are of the view that the attack on Kodiyeri, close on the heels of a protest organised by the RSS against Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in New Delhi the other day, cannot be viewed in isolation. In a statement here, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan strongly condemned the attack on the CPM state secretary. Terming the action uncontrolled aggressiveness, Pinarayi said stringent action would be taken against those responsible for the incident. Meanwhile, BJP national executive member V Muraleedharan said the BJP men were not slaughtered cows to sacrifice their lives everyday unilaterally to maintain peace in the state. In his Facebook post, Muraleedharan said peace cant be brought unilaterally when the ruling party does not want it. It is a very serious situation to see the BJP workers getting killed every day when the party is in power at the Centre. We have no reluctance to revisit our past to tame the CPM goons. We havent forgotten anything. If we are after it, we will see to it that the roots of CPM are dug out he said. The BJP leader said he would not mind if his statement was interpreted as a threat by the CPM and those paid writers who selectively comment against the BJP. It will be sleepless nights ahead for those who have killed our workers and those who have ordered to kill. Not even Pinarayi Vijayan will be able to save such killers. Justice will be dispensed definitely he said. The FB post has triggered reactions from both sides. While some of the comments were apparently made out of emotional outburst, some were self-critical. PJ Vishnu demanded the intervention of the Union Government to stop the killings. One of the major demands raised in the post is the deployment of Central forces in Kannur. In the open letter, he asked whether the leadership doesnt believe that the cadre in Kannur had the right to live. The CPM state secretariat termed the incident an attempt to create tension. The move is to spread violence and create tension at programmes attended by senior CPM leaders, the state secretariat said in a statement and warned the party cadres not to fall in the Sangh Parivar trap. LDF convener Vaikom Viswan alleged it was an attempt to spark violence. The BJP and RSS have been creating tension in the region for some time, he said. CPI state secretary Kanam Rajendran said the Sangh Parivar was trying to create an impression of failure in law and order situation. It can only be viewed as part of an agenda set by the Sangh Parivar which has been demanding Central intervention in the state, in the backdrop of incidents in Kannur. He demanded urgent intervention by the State Government to bring the culprits before the law.
By ANI

KOCHI: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested two people in connection with the criminal conspiracy hatched within and outside India, with the intention of furthering the objectives of the Islamic State(IS) and for joining and supporting the organization.



Accused Abdul Rashid Abdulla, resident of Kasaragod district and Yasmeen Mohammad Zahid, resident of Sitamarhi district, Bihar were booked on Friday under under sections 120-B and 125 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), besides sections 38, 39 and 40 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967.



The NIA probe has established that accused Abdul Rashid was the main conspirator behind the offence of motivating youth, hailing from Kasaragod district to exit from India along with their families, to join the terrorist organisation.



According to officials, Rashid had conducted classes at Kasaragod and other places in support of the terrorist organization and its ideology of violent jihad. He motivated another set of 14 co-conspirators, including another arrested accused Yasmeen Mohammed Zahid, to join the proscribed organization and plan for Hijrah to the Caliphate announced by the ISIS.



The investigation has revealed that the conspiracy had been in operation since the month of July, 2015.

Zahid was intercepted at the New Delhi International Airport on the July 30, 2016 while she was trying to exit India for Kabul, Afghanistan, along with her minor child, with the intention of joining her co-conspirator Abdul Rashid, in the territory under the control of ISIS in Afghanistan.



According to the investigation conducted by the agency, it has established that Rasheed had raised funds for the terrorist organization and transferred such funds to Yasmeen, who utilized it for her activities with the intention of supporting the terrorist organization.

KOCHI: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested two people in connection with the criminal conspiracy hatched within and outside India, with the intention of furthering the objectives of the Islamic State(IS) and for joining and supporting the organization. Accused Abdul Rashid Abdulla, resident of Kasaragod district and Yasmeen Mohammad Zahid, resident of Sitamarhi district, Bihar were booked on Friday under under sections 120-B and 125 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), besides sections 38, 39 and 40 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967. The NIA probe has established that accused Abdul Rashid was the main conspirator behind the offence of motivating youth, hailing from Kasaragod district to exit from India along with their families, to join the terrorist organisation. According to officials, Rashid had conducted classes at Kasaragod and other places in support of the terrorist organization and its ideology of violent jihad. He motivated another set of 14 co-conspirators, including another arrested accused Yasmeen Mohammed Zahid, to join the proscribed organization and plan for Hijrah to the Caliphate announced by the ISIS. The investigation has revealed that the conspiracy had been in operation since the month of July, 2015. Zahid was intercepted at the New Delhi International Airport on the July 30, 2016 while she was trying to exit India for Kabul, Afghanistan, along with her minor child, with the intention of joining her co-conspirator Abdul Rashid, in the territory under the control of ISIS in Afghanistan. According to the investigation conducted by the agency, it has established that Rasheed had raised funds for the terrorist organization and transferred such funds to Yasmeen, who utilized it for her activities with the intention of supporting the terrorist organization.
Vignesh A By

Express News Service

TIRUPUR: A body of a BJP functionary was found hanging from a tree, allegedly with his hands and legs tied with ropes, here on Friday morning. The mans family members alleged that he was murdered.

Sources said that SP Muthu alias Marimuthu (53), a resident of Muthanampalayam on the outskirts of the city, was the vice-president of Tirupur North district unit of the BJP.



Marimuthu owned a coconut farm, situated adjacent to his house. He used to water the trees and graze his cattle in the farm early morning every day.



On Friday around 4 am, Marimuthu left for his farm. As he did not return even after two hours. His wife, Pushpa, went to the farm only to find the body of her husband hanging from a nearby tree, said police.



A portrait of Prime Minister Narendra Modi garlanded with slippers and the flags of BJP, Hindu Munnani and also a black flag, were found at a lamp post near the body. Muthu, being a party functionary, used to have the party flags and portraits of the party leaders in his house. Also, alphabets T, P and R and numerals 1 to 5 were written above the portrait of the PM, in which the number 3 was struck off.



The body of the deceased was brought down from the tree even before the police arrived. His family claimed that the ropes used to tie his hands and legs were missing after they untied them, said police sources. Police sources also stated that there was no major external injury on the body except that his shirt was torn. Police officials conducted an inquiry with his wife.



Point N Mani, a senior leader of BJP in the city, told Express that Muthu had told his party men that some unknown persons were following him, some 20 days back. The party men then asked him to install a security camera at his house.



The Tirupur Rural police, who have registered a case of suspicious death, recovered the body and sent it to the Tirupur Government District Headquarters Hospital for postmortem. The body was later handed over to the family, and it will be cremated on Friday evening.



The police are probing the case. As news of the death spread, many BJP cadre and HM members gathered in front of Muthus house and also at the hospital. Heavy police force was deployed at Dharapuram Road, which leads to Muthanampalayam. All shops in Muthanampalayam remained closed on Friday. Muthu is survived by wife, two daughters and a college-going son.

TIRUPUR: A body of a BJP functionary was found hanging from a tree, allegedly with his hands and legs tied with ropes, here on Friday morning. The mans family members alleged that he was murdered. Sources said that SP Muthu alias Marimuthu (53), a resident of Muthanampalayam on the outskirts of the city, was the vice-president of Tirupur North district unit of the BJP. Marimuthu owned a coconut farm, situated adjacent to his house. He used to water the trees and graze his cattle in the farm early morning every day. On Friday around 4 am, Marimuthu left for his farm. As he did not return even after two hours. His wife, Pushpa, went to the farm only to find the body of her husband hanging from a nearby tree, said police. A portrait of Prime Minister Narendra Modi garlanded with slippers and the flags of BJP, Hindu Munnani and also a black flag, were found at a lamp post near the body. Muthu, being a party functionary, used to have the party flags and portraits of the party leaders in his house. Also, alphabets T, P and R and numerals 1 to 5 were written above the portrait of the PM, in which the number 3 was struck off. The body of the deceased was brought down from the tree even before the police arrived. His family claimed that the ropes used to tie his hands and legs were missing after they untied them, said police sources. Police sources also stated that there was no major external injury on the body except that his shirt was torn. Police officials conducted an inquiry with his wife. Point N Mani, a senior leader of BJP in the city, told Express that Muthu had told his party men that some unknown persons were following him, some 20 days back. The party men then asked him to install a security camera at his house. The Tirupur Rural police, who have registered a case of suspicious death, recovered the body and sent it to the Tirupur Government District Headquarters Hospital for postmortem. The body was later handed over to the family, and it will be cremated on Friday evening. The police are probing the case. As news of the death spread, many BJP cadre and HM members gathered in front of Muthus house and also at the hospital. Heavy police force was deployed at Dharapuram Road, which leads to Muthanampalayam. All shops in Muthanampalayam remained closed on Friday. Muthu is survived by wife, two daughters and a college-going son.
By Express News Service

CHENNAI: The intelligence wing of the State police has said that members of 20 organisations had joined the jallikattu protests and were trying to divert the focus of the protests by indulging in anti-national propaganda. However, leaders of many of these organisations told Express that they participated in the protests but there was nothing in their actions that would amount to be termed as anti-national.

On the first three days, the protest was dominated only the student community. But later members of a few other organisations entered the mob and changed the direction of the protest, said a senior intelligence officer. The officer said that members of the May 17 Movement also propagated for the cessation of Tamil Nadu from the Indian union and was planning to prevent Republic Day celebrations.

Our movement never spoke about such things. If the police intelligence says so, let them prove it. These are just their imagination, said Thirumurugan Gandhi of the May 17 Movement. He said even the Dravidian leader Periyar termed the 1947 Independence from the British as a black day. Was there any case filed against him for that?

Islamist leader Tada J Abdul Rahim, the State president of Indian National League, agreed that the person riding a scooter, in which Osama bin Ladens portrait was printed, belonged to his organisation. However, he said the photo was taken in December during the protests against the Union government over the Zakir Naik issue. Police officers involved in investigating the matter said they had identified the person who owns by the scooter, were but yet to trace him.

CHENNAI: The intelligence wing of the State police has said that members of 20 organisations had joined the jallikattu protests and were trying to divert the focus of the protests by indulging in anti-national propaganda. However, leaders of many of these organisations told Express that they participated in the protests but there was nothing in their actions that would amount to be termed as anti-national. On the first three days, the protest was dominated only the student community. But later members of a few other organisations entered the mob and changed the direction of the protest, said a senior intelligence officer. The officer said that members of the May 17 Movement also propagated for the cessation of Tamil Nadu from the Indian union and was planning to prevent Republic Day celebrations. Our movement never spoke about such things. If the police intelligence says so, let them prove it. These are just their imagination, said Thirumurugan Gandhi of the May 17 Movement. He said even the Dravidian leader Periyar termed the 1947 Independence from the British as a black day. Was there any case filed against him for that? Islamist leader Tada J Abdul Rahim, the State president of Indian National League, agreed that the person riding a scooter, in which Osama bin Ladens portrait was printed, belonged to his organisation. However, he said the photo was taken in December during the protests against the Union government over the Zakir Naik issue. Police officers involved in investigating the matter said they had identified the person who owns by the scooter, were but yet to trace him.
By Express News Service

THANJAVUR/MADURAI/HASSAN: The toll in snow avalanches in Jammu and Kashmir over the last 72 hours has risen to 20, with 15 of them being soldiers. While a civilian was killed in a fresh snow slide in Uri on Friday, the Army recovered bodies of four missing soldiers from the Gurez sector close to the LoC. Kashmir, according to meteorological officials, is experiencing the worst snowfall in 25 years.

B Ilavarasan from Keezhaiyur in Thanjavur district was one of the soldiers killed in the disaster. His parents, Boominathan and Amudha, are farm labourers.

They were awaiting his return next week for a delayed Pongal break. A B.A. graduate, Ilavarasan joined the Army in 2012 and served in the 51 Rashtriya Rifles in Kashmir. While Boominathan appealed to the government to return his sons mortal remains at the earliest for final rites, the district administration said there was no confirmation about the date of arrival.

A 26-year-old sepoy, C. Sundarapadi from Madurai district has also reportedly died in the avalanche. Speaking to the Express Sundarapandis brother-in-law Ranjith said that hailing from an agricultural family, Sundarapandi always dreamt of joining the uniformed services. His dream materialised when he was studying B.com. Sundarapandi was married to Sugapriya, who currently is nine months pregnant

Sandeep Shetty from Devihalli taluk in Karnataka was also among the soldiers killed in the avalanche. Sandeep was supposed to get married on April 22 and his sudden demise has left his family in a state of shock. Sandeep, whose grandfather also served in the Army, joined the service amid opposition from family members.

Sandeep was a very dynamic person, recalled cousin Gururaj, adding that he remembered the minutest of details. Sandeep often shared his views about unity, the integrity of nation and patriotism, he added. Hassan MP and former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda claimed he had requested the Army to send his mortal remains at the earliest.

THANJAVUR/MADURAI/HASSAN: The toll in snow avalanches in Jammu and Kashmir over the last 72 hours has risen to 20, with 15 of them being soldiers. While a civilian was killed in a fresh snow slide in Uri on Friday, the Army recovered bodies of four missing soldiers from the Gurez sector close to the LoC. Kashmir, according to meteorological officials, is experiencing the worst snowfall in 25 years. B Ilavarasan from Keezhaiyur in Thanjavur district was one of the soldiers killed in the disaster. His parents, Boominathan and Amudha, are farm labourers. They were awaiting his return next week for a delayed Pongal break. A B.A. graduate, Ilavarasan joined the Army in 2012 and served in the 51 Rashtriya Rifles in Kashmir. While Boominathan appealed to the government to return his sons mortal remains at the earliest for final rites, the district administration said there was no confirmation about the date of arrival. A 26-year-old sepoy, C. Sundarapadi from Madurai district has also reportedly died in the avalanche. Speaking to the Express Sundarapandis brother-in-law Ranjith said that hailing from an agricultural family, Sundarapandi always dreamt of joining the uniformed services. His dream materialised when he was studying B.com. Sundarapandi was married to Sugapriya, who currently is nine months pregnant Sandeep Shetty from Devihalli taluk in Karnataka was also among the soldiers killed in the avalanche. Sandeep was supposed to get married on April 22 and his sudden demise has left his family in a state of shock. Sandeep, whose grandfather also served in the Army, joined the service amid opposition from family members. Sandeep was a very dynamic person, recalled cousin Gururaj, adding that he remembered the minutest of details. Sandeep often shared his views about unity, the integrity of nation and patriotism, he added. Hassan MP and former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda claimed he had requested the Army to send his mortal remains at the earliest.
By PTI

ANKARA: Turkey and Britain signed a deal to jointly build fighter jets during Prime Minister Theresa May's visit to Ankara today, even as the British leader called on Turkey's government to uphold democracy and abide by human rights standards.

Britain's BAE Systems and Turkish Aerospace industries signed the 100 million pounds (nearly USD 125.5 million) agreement establishing a partnership for the development of Turkey's fighter jet program as May met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and other Turkish officials about boosting trade between the countries once Britain leaves the European Union.

The discussions also focused on increasing cooperation over security and counterterrorism.

"This agreement underlines once again that Britain is a great, global, trading nation and that we are open for business," May said, according to a statement from her office. "It marks the start of a new and deeper trading relationship with Turkey and will potentially secure British and Turkish jobs and prosperity for decades to come."

May flew overnight to Ankara by RAF Voyager jet from the US, where she and U.S. President Donald Trump proclaimed a new chapter in the trans-Atlantic "special relationship."

The visit to Turkey, an important but complicated NATO ally, came amid pressure at home to condemn Turkey's clampdown on civil liberties since the government crushed a coup attempt in July.

"I am proud that the UK stood with you on the 15th of July last year in defense of your democracy," May said, as she and Erdogan delivered brief statements to the media following their talks.

"And now it is important that Turkey sustains that democracy by maintaining the rule of law and upholding its international human rights obligations -- as the government has undertaken to do," she said.

Turkey has detained tens of thousands of people suspected of links to a movement led by US-based Muslim cleric Fethullah Gulen, whom the government accuses of orchestrating the failed coup attempt. More than 100,000 others have been dismissed from government jobs.

The crackdown extended to other government opponents. More than a hundred journalists and pro-Kurdish party leaders are in jail.

May, who was paying her first visit to Turkey since becoming prime minister, arrived for talks with Erdogan to find her image dominating television screens in the presidential palace, which were showing footage of her visit to the White House.

May laughed when Erdogan said her trip to Washington "was well-covered in Turkey."

In his statement, the Turkish leader said the two countries would aim to increase their bilateral trade volume from the current USD 15.6 billion to some USD 20 billion.

Earlier, May laid a wreath in the red and white colors of the Turkish flag at the tomb of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, founder of the modern Turkish Republic, before meeting Erdogan at the vast presidential palace.

ANKARA: Turkey and Britain signed a deal to jointly build fighter jets during Prime Minister Theresa May's visit to Ankara today, even as the British leader called on Turkey's government to uphold democracy and abide by human rights standards. Britain's BAE Systems and Turkish Aerospace industries signed the 100 million pounds (nearly USD 125.5 million) agreement establishing a partnership for the development of Turkey's fighter jet program as May met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and other Turkish officials about boosting trade between the countries once Britain leaves the European Union. The discussions also focused on increasing cooperation over security and counterterrorism. "This agreement underlines once again that Britain is a great, global, trading nation and that we are open for business," May said, according to a statement from her office. "It marks the start of a new and deeper trading relationship with Turkey and will potentially secure British and Turkish jobs and prosperity for decades to come." May flew overnight to Ankara by RAF Voyager jet from the US, where she and U.S. President Donald Trump proclaimed a new chapter in the trans-Atlantic "special relationship." The visit to Turkey, an important but complicated NATO ally, came amid pressure at home to condemn Turkey's clampdown on civil liberties since the government crushed a coup attempt in July. "I am proud that the UK stood with you on the 15th of July last year in defense of your democracy," May said, as she and Erdogan delivered brief statements to the media following their talks. "And now it is important that Turkey sustains that democracy by maintaining the rule of law and upholding its international human rights obligations -- as the government has undertaken to do," she said. Turkey has detained tens of thousands of people suspected of links to a movement led by US-based Muslim cleric Fethullah Gulen, whom the government accuses of orchestrating the failed coup attempt. More than 100,000 others have been dismissed from government jobs. The crackdown extended to other government opponents. More than a hundred journalists and pro-Kurdish party leaders are in jail. May, who was paying her first visit to Turkey since becoming prime minister, arrived for talks with Erdogan to find her image dominating television screens in the presidential palace, which were showing footage of her visit to the White House. May laughed when Erdogan said her trip to Washington "was well-covered in Turkey." In his statement, the Turkish leader said the two countries would aim to increase their bilateral trade volume from the current USD 15.6 billion to some USD 20 billion. Earlier, May laid a wreath in the red and white colors of the Turkish flag at the tomb of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, founder of the modern Turkish Republic, before meeting Erdogan at the vast presidential palace.
By AFP

PRAGUE: A spokesman for Czech President Milos Zeman on Saturday praised Donald Trump's Anti-migrant steps, saying the new US president simply cared about the safety of Americans.

"US President Trump protects his country, he's concerned with the safety of his citizens. Exactly what EU elites do not do," Zeman's spokesman Jiri Ovcacek said in a tweet.

In office for a week, Trump on Friday signed an order to boost the vetting of potential immigrants and refugees, seeking to keep "radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America."

The move has sparked criticism among rights groups as well as at the United Nations which called on the US to continue its long tradition of welcoming refugees.

The pro-Russian Zeman, a 72-year-old veteran leftwinger and ex-Communist, who endorsed Trump before the election last year, has criticised immigration from Muslim countries.

He once called the wave of refugees "an organised invasion" and said Muslims were "impossible to integrate."

"The safety of Czech citizens is a priority. Now we have allies in the US," Ovcacek tweeted Saturday.

Migration is a prominent political issue in the Czech Republic, despite refugees largely avoiding the ex-Communist EU and NATO member state of 10.5 million people, heading instead to wealthier countries in western Europe.

PRAGUE: A spokesman for Czech President Milos Zeman on Saturday praised Donald Trump's Anti-migrant steps, saying the new US president simply cared about the safety of Americans. "US President Trump protects his country, he's concerned with the safety of his citizens. Exactly what EU elites do not do," Zeman's spokesman Jiri Ovcacek said in a tweet. In office for a week, Trump on Friday signed an order to boost the vetting of potential immigrants and refugees, seeking to keep "radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America." The move has sparked criticism among rights groups as well as at the United Nations which called on the US to continue its long tradition of welcoming refugees. The pro-Russian Zeman, a 72-year-old veteran leftwinger and ex-Communist, who endorsed Trump before the election last year, has criticised immigration from Muslim countries. He once called the wave of refugees "an organised invasion" and said Muslims were "impossible to integrate." "The safety of Czech citizens is a priority. Now we have allies in the US," Ovcacek tweeted Saturday. Migration is a prominent political issue in the Czech Republic, despite refugees largely avoiding the ex-Communist EU and NATO member state of 10.5 million people, heading instead to wealthier countries in western Europe.
By PTI

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has invited Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe for a meeting at the White House next month, as he reaffirmed US' "iron-clad" commitment to Japan's security.

The invitation was extended to Abe during the telephonic conversation that the two leaders had this morning -- the first between the two leaders after Trump was sworn in as the 45th President of the United States on January 20.

"During call with Japanese Prime Minister Abe @POTUS invited him to a meeting at White House on February 10th," White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer tweeted.

Abe has also met Trump in New York after he won the November 8 general elections.

The telephonic conversation comes just days after Trump formally withdrew the US from the Trans-Pacific Partnership.

The US participation was seen as key to the agreement.

In a readout of the phone call, the White House said Trump and Abe discussed the importance of the US-Japan alliance and cooperation on regional and global issues.

"President Trump affirmed the iron-clad US commitment to ensuring the security of Japan," the White House said.

They also discussed the significance of Secretary of Defence James Mattis's upcoming visit to the region, including Japan.

Trump and Abe said they would consult and cooperate on the threat posed by North Korea, the White House said.

"The two leaders also committed to deepen the bilateral trade and investment relationship. President Trump and Prime Minister Abe agreed to meet in Washington, on February 10,"

said the readout of the phone call.

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has invited Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe for a meeting at the White House next month, as he reaffirmed US' "iron-clad" commitment to Japan's security. The invitation was extended to Abe during the telephonic conversation that the two leaders had this morning -- the first between the two leaders after Trump was sworn in as the 45th President of the United States on January 20. "During call with Japanese Prime Minister Abe @POTUS invited him to a meeting at White House on February 10th," White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer tweeted. Abe has also met Trump in New York after he won the November 8 general elections. The telephonic conversation comes just days after Trump formally withdrew the US from the Trans-Pacific Partnership. The US participation was seen as key to the agreement. In a readout of the phone call, the White House said Trump and Abe discussed the importance of the US-Japan alliance and cooperation on regional and global issues. "President Trump affirmed the iron-clad US commitment to ensuring the security of Japan," the White House said. They also discussed the significance of Secretary of Defence James Mattis's upcoming visit to the region, including Japan. Trump and Abe said they would consult and cooperate on the threat posed by North Korea, the White House said. "The two leaders also committed to deepen the bilateral trade and investment relationship. President Trump and Prime Minister Abe agreed to meet in Washington, on February 10," said the readout of the phone call.
By AFP

OTTAWA: General Motors is shifting 625 jobs from a plant in Canada that makes popular crossover utility vehicles to Mexico, the Canadian auto workers union said Friday.

The cuts represent one-fifth of the facility's workforce and comes less than a year after GM expanded the Canadian plant, with part of a Can$560 million (US$426 million) investment in its overall Canadian operations.

The layoffs at the plant in Ingersoll, Ontario -- which produces the Equinox and Terrain models -- are a "betrayal" that show "why NAFTA is a terrible deal for Canadian jobs," Unifor said in a statement on the North American Free Trade Agreement.

"It is another example of how good jobs are being shifted out of Canada for cheaper labor in Mexico," Unifor president Jerry Dias said.

The announcement is "a shining example of everything wrong with NAFTA, it must be renegotiated," he added. "It is imperative that we have trade rules that help ensure good jobs in Canada."

GM spokesman Mathew Palmer told AFP in an email the cuts "are strictly related to the end of the older generation Equinox production" at the Ingersoll plant, and have nothing to do with moving Terrain production to Mexico, which had already been announced.

The new Equinox model is to start production at the Ingersoll plant in July.

NAFTA has linked Canada, the United States and Mexico since 1994.

US President Donald Trump has vowed to renegotiate the trade pact, threatening to impose stiff import duties on foreign-made cars sold in the United States.

Auto makers responded with goodwill overtures, playing up their efforts to create jobs and invest in the United States.

Asked for a comment, Canadian Economic Development Minister Havdeep Bains said through a spokesman that the government "is concerned about the impact of job losses on workers and their families and our thoughts go out to those affected."

But, he added, "We remain optimistic about the strength and future of Canada's automotive industry."

OTTAWA: General Motors is shifting 625 jobs from a plant in Canada that makes popular crossover utility vehicles to Mexico, the Canadian auto workers union said Friday. The cuts represent one-fifth of the facility's workforce and comes less than a year after GM expanded the Canadian plant, with part of a Can$560 million (US$426 million) investment in its overall Canadian operations. The layoffs at the plant in Ingersoll, Ontario -- which produces the Equinox and Terrain models -- are a "betrayal" that show "why NAFTA is a terrible deal for Canadian jobs," Unifor said in a statement on the North American Free Trade Agreement. "It is another example of how good jobs are being shifted out of Canada for cheaper labor in Mexico," Unifor president Jerry Dias said. The announcement is "a shining example of everything wrong with NAFTA, it must be renegotiated," he added. "It is imperative that we have trade rules that help ensure good jobs in Canada." GM spokesman Mathew Palmer told AFP in an email the cuts "are strictly related to the end of the older generation Equinox production" at the Ingersoll plant, and have nothing to do with moving Terrain production to Mexico, which had already been announced. The new Equinox model is to start production at the Ingersoll plant in July. NAFTA has linked Canada, the United States and Mexico since 1994. US President Donald Trump has vowed to renegotiate the trade pact, threatening to impose stiff import duties on foreign-made cars sold in the United States. Auto makers responded with goodwill overtures, playing up their efforts to create jobs and invest in the United States. Asked for a comment, Canadian Economic Development Minister Havdeep Bains said through a spokesman that the government "is concerned about the impact of job losses on workers and their families and our thoughts go out to those affected." But, he added, "We remain optimistic about the strength and future of Canada's automotive industry."
By AFP

CAIRO: An Iraqi family was barred from flying from Cairo to New York on Saturday after US President Donald Trump signed an order restricting arrivals from seven Muslim countries.

Egyptian officials said the family had visas and were in transit when they were prevented from boarding the EgyptAir plane to New York's JFK airport.

Fuad Sharef, 51, and his wife and three children were instead forced to board a flight back to Arbil in Iraq's autonomous region of Kurdistan, he told AFP.

Trump had on Friday signed a sweeping executive order to suspend refugee arrivals and impose tough controls on travellers from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

"I had sold my house, my car, my furniture. I resigned from work and so did my wife. I took my children out of school," said Sharef of the family's preparations to resettle in Nashville, Tennessee under a special immigrant visa.

Back in Arbil, the pharmaceutical industry manager, who had previously worked for an NGO subcontracted by the US aid agency, said he was devastated.

"Donald Trump destroyed my life. My family's life. I used to think America was a state of institutions but it's as though it's a dictatorship," he said.

"For a decision like this to come out and be implemented immediately, and against whom? Against a valid visa holder."

"I put my life at risk, working with the Americans at a time that it could have gotten you killed," he added.

The family had been barred at Cairo after a flight manifest was sent to JFK airport, which responded with instructions that they were not to board, according to airport officials.

EgyptAir's website has not provided updated travel advice for the United States.

Qatar Airways, one of the largest Middle East airlines, said on its website that citizens of those seven countries could still travel to the United States if they had a permanent residence permit.

The Qatari travel alert said government officials and their immediate family members, as well as representatives of international organisations were exempt from the restrictions.

CAIRO: An Iraqi family was barred from flying from Cairo to New York on Saturday after US President Donald Trump signed an order restricting arrivals from seven Muslim countries. Egyptian officials said the family had visas and were in transit when they were prevented from boarding the EgyptAir plane to New York's JFK airport. Fuad Sharef, 51, and his wife and three children were instead forced to board a flight back to Arbil in Iraq's autonomous region of Kurdistan, he told AFP. Trump had on Friday signed a sweeping executive order to suspend refugee arrivals and impose tough controls on travellers from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen. "I had sold my house, my car, my furniture. I resigned from work and so did my wife. I took my children out of school," said Sharef of the family's preparations to resettle in Nashville, Tennessee under a special immigrant visa. Back in Arbil, the pharmaceutical industry manager, who had previously worked for an NGO subcontracted by the US aid agency, said he was devastated. "Donald Trump destroyed my life. My family's life. I used to think America was a state of institutions but it's as though it's a dictatorship," he said. "For a decision like this to come out and be implemented immediately, and against whom? Against a valid visa holder." "I put my life at risk, working with the Americans at a time that it could have gotten you killed," he added. The family had been barred at Cairo after a flight manifest was sent to JFK airport, which responded with instructions that they were not to board, according to airport officials. EgyptAir's website has not provided updated travel advice for the United States. Qatar Airways, one of the largest Middle East airlines, said on its website that citizens of those seven countries could still travel to the United States if they had a permanent residence permit. The Qatari travel alert said government officials and their immediate family members, as well as representatives of international organisations were exempt from the restrictions.
By Associated Press

MEXICO CITY: Mexicans are beginning to debate how to fight back against U.S. President Donald Trump's aggressive stance on trade and immigration.

Prominent political figures have suggested the country expel U.S. law enforcement agents, stop detaining Central American migrants or no longer inspect northbound trucks for drug shipments. Some activist groups on Friday were calling for a boycott of American brands.

Former President Felipe Calderon said Thursday that "we have to design a policy of retaliation" for Trump's proposed plans, which include making Mexico pay for the border wall he wants to build.

"We have to put U.S. security issues under review ... including the presence of (U.S.) agents" on Mexican soil, Calderon told local news media.

The comments came after current President Enrique Pena Nieto scrapped a planned Tuesday meeting with Trump after the American president tweeted that it would be better to cancel if Mexico wasn't willing to pay for his proposed wall.

Ruben Aguilar, a political consultant who was spokesman for former President Vicente Fox, noted Friday that Mexico has been stopping Central American migrants before they reach the U.S. border "as part of the logic between two friendly countries."

He suggested that Mexico could say, "Okay, I'm not going to stop Central Americans anymore," and added, "Now if our two countries aren't friends anymore, that is a card we could play to increase the pressure."

"Drugs are another" possible card, Aguilar said. "If you want to stop them with your wall, well we won't stop them anymore, let them go through."

Trump appeared to try to defuse the spat between the two countries Friday, saying, "Great respect for Mexico, I love the Mexican people."

"We have really, I think, a very good relationship, the president and I, and we had a talk that lasted for about an hour this morning, and we are going to be working on a fair relationship," Trump said.

The office of the Mexican president confirmed the call, calling it "constructive and productive," but did not specifically mention the wall or other policies proposed by Trump it doesn't agree with.

Pena Nieto's government instead stressed "the need for both countries to continue working together to stop the trafficking of drugs and the flow of illegal weapons."

"Both presidents recognized their clear and very public differences on this very sensitive issue, and agreed to solve those differences as part of an integrated discussion of all aspects of the bilateral relationship," Pena Nieto's office said. "The two presidents also agreed, for the moment, to no longer speak publicly about this controversial topic."

On Friday afternoon, Mexican business magnate Carlos Slim called for "national unity" in the face of Trump's hostility, and said the country should have a measured response "without getting angry but without surrendering."

Slim called for a "modern, not protectionist" national program of substituting imported products, the vast majority of which come from the United States.

But he stopped short of calling for a boycott of American goods.

"I think it is an error to think about boycotting companies," Slim said. "What we should do instead is buy what is produced in Mexico."

A coalition of Mexican farm and consumer groups, however, did call for such a boycott when it raised the battle flag on Jan. 18, two days before Trump took office.

The campaign's slogan  "Consumers cry war!"  echoes the first line of Mexico's national anthem as it calls on Mexicans to buy national products.

"The statements and threats from the U.S. president-elect are irrational and unacceptable, but they should awaken a rational response, and lead us to radically change in our model of national development, and recover sovereignty over our food system," the coalition said in a statement.

In a country where U.S. chain restaurants, coffee shops and stores are now ubiquitous, social media users created long strings of hashtags such as #AdiosStarbucks #AdiosCostco, #AdiosWalmart, #AdiosMcDonalds, #AdiosProductosGringos , #ConsumoProductosMexicanos.

Peter Schechter, senior vice president for strategic initiatives at the Atlantic Council, said the dispute may awaken underlying currents of resentment in Mexico. The U.S. took away almost half of Mexico's territory in the 1848 Mexican-American War, though that historic resentment had faded in the last three decades.

"All this does is to solidify the view that an attempt to negotiate with the United States under this administration is impossible, and that we should break from the United States," Schechter said. "This argument has moved from incredulous, to possible in people's minds. The next step is it moves from possible, to the right thing, and that step is not that far."

Former Mexican President Ernesto Zedillo wrote in an op-ed in the Washington Post that "the prudent thing" is to assume that Trump will kill NAFTA, which he said would be costly to Mexico.

"But such an outcome should not be cause for despair in my country," he wrote, calling for Mexico to reinforce its commitment to openness and tell companies from around the world that it remains open for business.

"The end of NAFTA, as disruptive and costly as it would be in the short term, could be compensated for with the right set of policies," Zedillo wrote.

MEXICO CITY: Mexicans are beginning to debate how to fight back against U.S. President Donald Trump's aggressive stance on trade and immigration. Prominent political figures have suggested the country expel U.S. law enforcement agents, stop detaining Central American migrants or no longer inspect northbound trucks for drug shipments. Some activist groups on Friday were calling for a boycott of American brands. Former President Felipe Calderon said Thursday that "we have to design a policy of retaliation" for Trump's proposed plans, which include making Mexico pay for the border wall he wants to build. "We have to put U.S. security issues under review ... including the presence of (U.S.) agents" on Mexican soil, Calderon told local news media. The comments came after current President Enrique Pena Nieto scrapped a planned Tuesday meeting with Trump after the American president tweeted that it would be better to cancel if Mexico wasn't willing to pay for his proposed wall. Ruben Aguilar, a political consultant who was spokesman for former President Vicente Fox, noted Friday that Mexico has been stopping Central American migrants before they reach the U.S. border "as part of the logic between two friendly countries." He suggested that Mexico could say, "Okay, I'm not going to stop Central Americans anymore," and added, "Now if our two countries aren't friends anymore, that is a card we could play to increase the pressure." "Drugs are another" possible card, Aguilar said. "If you want to stop them with your wall, well we won't stop them anymore, let them go through." Trump appeared to try to defuse the spat between the two countries Friday, saying, "Great respect for Mexico, I love the Mexican people." "We have really, I think, a very good relationship, the president and I, and we had a talk that lasted for about an hour this morning, and we are going to be working on a fair relationship," Trump said. The office of the Mexican president confirmed the call, calling it "constructive and productive," but did not specifically mention the wall or other policies proposed by Trump it doesn't agree with. Pena Nieto's government instead stressed "the need for both countries to continue working together to stop the trafficking of drugs and the flow of illegal weapons." "Both presidents recognized their clear and very public differences on this very sensitive issue, and agreed to solve those differences as part of an integrated discussion of all aspects of the bilateral relationship," Pena Nieto's office said. "The two presidents also agreed, for the moment, to no longer speak publicly about this controversial topic." On Friday afternoon, Mexican business magnate Carlos Slim called for "national unity" in the face of Trump's hostility, and said the country should have a measured response "without getting angry but without surrendering." Slim called for a "modern, not protectionist" national program of substituting imported products, the vast majority of which come from the United States. But he stopped short of calling for a boycott of American goods. "I think it is an error to think about boycotting companies," Slim said. "What we should do instead is buy what is produced in Mexico." A coalition of Mexican farm and consumer groups, however, did call for such a boycott when it raised the battle flag on Jan. 18, two days before Trump took office. The campaign's slogan  "Consumers cry war!"  echoes the first line of Mexico's national anthem as it calls on Mexicans to buy national products. "The statements and threats from the U.S. president-elect are irrational and unacceptable, but they should awaken a rational response, and lead us to radically change in our model of national development, and recover sovereignty over our food system," the coalition said in a statement. In a country where U.S. chain restaurants, coffee shops and stores are now ubiquitous, social media users created long strings of hashtags such as #AdiosStarbucks #AdiosCostco, #AdiosWalmart, #AdiosMcDonalds, #AdiosProductosGringos , #ConsumoProductosMexicanos. Peter Schechter, senior vice president for strategic initiatives at the Atlantic Council, said the dispute may awaken underlying currents of resentment in Mexico. The U.S. took away almost half of Mexico's territory in the 1848 Mexican-American War, though that historic resentment had faded in the last three decades. "All this does is to solidify the view that an attempt to negotiate with the United States under this administration is impossible, and that we should break from the United States," Schechter said. "This argument has moved from incredulous, to possible in people's minds. The next step is it moves from possible, to the right thing, and that step is not that far." Former Mexican President Ernesto Zedillo wrote in an op-ed in the Washington Post that "the prudent thing" is to assume that Trump will kill NAFTA, which he said would be costly to Mexico. "But such an outcome should not be cause for despair in my country," he wrote, calling for Mexico to reinforce its commitment to openness and tell companies from around the world that it remains open for business. "The end of NAFTA, as disruptive and costly as it would be in the short term, could be compensated for with the right set of policies," Zedillo wrote.
By ANI

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Iran have agreed to increase the volume of bilateral trade to five billion dollars.



Chairman for the Committee for Foreign Policy and National Security of Iran, Allauddin Boroujerdi made these remarks while addressing a press conference in Islamabad.



Earlier, Boroujerdi held talks with Pakistan National Security Adviser Nasser Khan Janjua on Friday and discussed matters pertaining to security of the region.



Janjua said that Pakistan attaches great value to its relations with neighbour country Iran.



Boroujerdi said that Iran is a very close friend of Pakistan and there is a need to further improve bilateral relations.



He said Gwadar and Chabahar are sister ports, and they will help boost bilateral trade.



Boroujerdi added that Iran-Pakistan Gas Pipeline was on the top priorities of both the countries.

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Iran have agreed to increase the volume of bilateral trade to five billion dollars. Chairman for the Committee for Foreign Policy and National Security of Iran, Allauddin Boroujerdi made these remarks while addressing a press conference in Islamabad. Earlier, Boroujerdi held talks with Pakistan National Security Adviser Nasser Khan Janjua on Friday and discussed matters pertaining to security of the region. Janjua said that Pakistan attaches great value to its relations with neighbour country Iran. Boroujerdi said that Iran is a very close friend of Pakistan and there is a need to further improve bilateral relations. He said Gwadar and Chabahar are sister ports, and they will help boost bilateral trade. Boroujerdi added that Iran-Pakistan Gas Pipeline was on the top priorities of both the countries.
By PTI

COLOMBO: Former Sri Lankan strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa has accused President Maithripala Sirisena of trying to appease the minority Tamil community by promising devolution of power, saying he will oppose the "fraudulent" new Constitution. "What did they say (the Sirisena government), they said powers of the presidency will be reduced and Parliament would be strengthened," the former president, whose nearly a decade- long rule was ended by Sirisena, said while addressing a public rally here yesterday.

"We will oppose this fraudulent new Constitution," Rajapaksa said, adding that the large gathering at his rally was an indication that people did not want a new Constitution. "The motive of the new Constitution is to appease the Tamil minority in their quest for political independence," he said referring to the military defeat of LTTE in 2009, Rajapaksa said, "We have to safeguard our victory".

He said the Sirisena government through the new Constitution would betray his victory over Tamil separatism. The government aims to replace the existing 1978 Constitution with a new one while accommodating Tamil demand for devolution of power to their regions.

Reports from six sub-committees comprising members from all political parties are to be referred to the main steering committee. No draft of the new Constitution was agreed. According to analysts, Rajapaksa's joint opposition, in their greater political plan to upset the current unity government, appears to whip up the Sinhala majority sentiments against the new Constitution.

Earlier this month, Tamil party Tamil National Alliance said it will not be a part of the ongoing Constitution-making process and will quit if the government abandons the idea of finding a political solution to the Tamil issue and more devolution is not considered. The new Constitution will replace the current executive president-headed Constitution adopted in 1978. The government expects the new Constitution to address the demand of Tamil minorities for political recognition. With the defeat of the Tamil Tigers in 2009, the Tamil groups have opted for maximum devolution as opposed to LTTE's goal of a separate Tamil homeland.

COLOMBO: Former Sri Lankan strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa has accused President Maithripala Sirisena of trying to appease the minority Tamil community by promising devolution of power, saying he will oppose the "fraudulent" new Constitution. "What did they say (the Sirisena government), they said powers of the presidency will be reduced and Parliament would be strengthened," the former president, whose nearly a decade- long rule was ended by Sirisena, said while addressing a public rally here yesterday. "We will oppose this fraudulent new Constitution," Rajapaksa said, adding that the large gathering at his rally was an indication that people did not want a new Constitution. "The motive of the new Constitution is to appease the Tamil minority in their quest for political independence," he said referring to the military defeat of LTTE in 2009, Rajapaksa said, "We have to safeguard our victory". He said the Sirisena government through the new Constitution would betray his victory over Tamil separatism. The government aims to replace the existing 1978 Constitution with a new one while accommodating Tamil demand for devolution of power to their regions. Reports from six sub-committees comprising members from all political parties are to be referred to the main steering committee. No draft of the new Constitution was agreed. According to analysts, Rajapaksa's joint opposition, in their greater political plan to upset the current unity government, appears to whip up the Sinhala majority sentiments against the new Constitution. Earlier this month, Tamil party Tamil National Alliance said it will not be a part of the ongoing Constitution-making process and will quit if the government abandons the idea of finding a political solution to the Tamil issue and more devolution is not considered. The new Constitution will replace the current executive president-headed Constitution adopted in 1978. The government expects the new Constitution to address the demand of Tamil minorities for political recognition. With the defeat of the Tamil Tigers in 2009, the Tamil groups have opted for maximum devolution as opposed to LTTE's goal of a separate Tamil homeland.
By Associated Press

WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump on Friday barred all refugees from entering the United States for four months  and those from war-ravaged Syria indefinitely  declaring the ban necessary to prevent "radical Islamic terrorists" from entering the nation.

The order immediately suspended a program that last year resettled to the U.S. roughly 85,000 people displaced by war, political oppression, hunger and religious prejudice. Trump indefinitely blocked all those fleeing Syria, where a civil war has displaced millions of people, and imposed a 90-day ban on entry to the U.S. from seven Muslim majority nations.

"We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas," Trump said as he signed the order at the Pentagon. "We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people."

Trump said the halt in the refugee program was necessary to give government agencies time to develop a stricter vetting system. But the order did spell out what additional steps he wants the Homeland Security and State departments to take.

The U.S. may admit refugees on a case-by-case basis during the freeze, and the government will continue to process requests from people claiming religious persecution, "provided that the religion of the individual is a minority religion in the individual's country."

In an interview with CBN News, Trump said persecuted Christians would be given priority in applying for refugee status.

"We are going to help them," Trump said. "They've been horribly treated."

The order was signed on Trump's most robust day of national security and foreign policy at the start of his presidency, marked by a meeting with British Prime Minister Theresa May and a lengthy phone call with Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto.

As a candidate, Trump called for a temporary ban on all Muslim immigration to the U.S. He later shifted his focus to putting in place "extreme vetting" procedures to screen people coming to the U.S. from countries with terrorism ties.

The State Department said the three-month ban in the directive applied to Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen  all Muslim-majority nations.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations, or CAIR, said it would file a federal lawsuit Monday challenging the constitutionality of the executive order.

"There is no evidence that refugees  the most thoroughly vetted of all people entering our nation  are a threat to national security," said CAIR National Litigation Director Lena F. Masri. "This is an order that is based on bigotry, not reality."

During the past budget year, the U.S. accepted 84,995 refugees, including 12,587 people from Syria. President Barack Obama had set the refugee limit for this budget year at 110,000.

Trump, according to the executive order, plans to cut that to 50,000. Refugee processing was suspended in the immediate aftermath of the Sept. 11 attacks and restarted months later.

The president was applauded by House Speaker Paul Ryan, who said it was "time to re-evaluate and strengthen the visa-vetting process." Many Democrats cast the measures as un-American.

"Tears are running down the cheeks of the Statue of Liberty tonight as a grand tradition of America, welcoming immigrants, that has existed since America was founded has been stomped upon," said Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York.

Trump's order was signed on Holocaust Remembrance Day, which brought to mind the global effort to help refugees during World War II and its aftermath.

The order makes no mention of a plan to provide safe zones in Syria and the surrounding area. A draft of the order had directed the Pentagon and the State Department to produce a plan for safe zones in the war-torn Mideast nation.

The president's directive capped a hectic first week for Trump at the White House, giving Americans an initial look at how he intends to position the United States around the globe.

Earlier Friday, he hosted British Prime Minister Theresa May at the White House for his first meeting with a world leader since taking office. Asked about whether he would revert back to Bush-era use of torture, Trump said he would defer to the views of Defense Secretary Jim Mattis.

"He has stated publicly that he does not necessarily believe in torture or waterboarding, or however you want to define it. ... I don't necessarily agree," Trump said. "But I would tell you that he will override because I'm giving him that power. He's an expert."

The Associated Press and other news organizations have obtained copies of a draft executive order signaling sweeping changes to U.S. interrogation and detention policy. The draft, which the White House said was not official, also requests recommendations on whether the U.S. should reopen CIA detention facilities outside the United States. Critics said the clandestine sites have marred America's image on the world stage.

Trump held firm Friday on another controversy  trade and illegal immigration from Mexico. He told reporters he had a "very good call" with Pena Nieto earlier in the day, but he reaffirmed his belief that Mexico has "outnegotiated and beat us to a pulp" on trade  and that would change.

"We're no longer going to be the country that doesn't know what it's doing," he declared a day after the Mexican leader cancelled his visit to Washington in response to Trump's plans to build a border wall and have Mexico pay for it.

WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump on Friday barred all refugees from entering the United States for four months  and those from war-ravaged Syria indefinitely  declaring the ban necessary to prevent "radical Islamic terrorists" from entering the nation. The order immediately suspended a program that last year resettled to the U.S. roughly 85,000 people displaced by war, political oppression, hunger and religious prejudice. Trump indefinitely blocked all those fleeing Syria, where a civil war has displaced millions of people, and imposed a 90-day ban on entry to the U.S. from seven Muslim majority nations. "We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas," Trump said as he signed the order at the Pentagon. "We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people." Trump said the halt in the refugee program was necessary to give government agencies time to develop a stricter vetting system. But the order did spell out what additional steps he wants the Homeland Security and State departments to take. The U.S. may admit refugees on a case-by-case basis during the freeze, and the government will continue to process requests from people claiming religious persecution, "provided that the religion of the individual is a minority religion in the individual's country." In an interview with CBN News, Trump said persecuted Christians would be given priority in applying for refugee status. "We are going to help them," Trump said. "They've been horribly treated." The order was signed on Trump's most robust day of national security and foreign policy at the start of his presidency, marked by a meeting with British Prime Minister Theresa May and a lengthy phone call with Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto. As a candidate, Trump called for a temporary ban on all Muslim immigration to the U.S. He later shifted his focus to putting in place "extreme vetting" procedures to screen people coming to the U.S. from countries with terrorism ties. The State Department said the three-month ban in the directive applied to Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen  all Muslim-majority nations. The Council on American-Islamic Relations, or CAIR, said it would file a federal lawsuit Monday challenging the constitutionality of the executive order. "There is no evidence that refugees  the most thoroughly vetted of all people entering our nation  are a threat to national security," said CAIR National Litigation Director Lena F. Masri. "This is an order that is based on bigotry, not reality." During the past budget year, the U.S. accepted 84,995 refugees, including 12,587 people from Syria. President Barack Obama had set the refugee limit for this budget year at 110,000. Trump, according to the executive order, plans to cut that to 50,000. Refugee processing was suspended in the immediate aftermath of the Sept. 11 attacks and restarted months later. The president was applauded by House Speaker Paul Ryan, who said it was "time to re-evaluate and strengthen the visa-vetting process." Many Democrats cast the measures as un-American. "Tears are running down the cheeks of the Statue of Liberty tonight as a grand tradition of America, welcoming immigrants, that has existed since America was founded has been stomped upon," said Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York. Trump's order was signed on Holocaust Remembrance Day, which brought to mind the global effort to help refugees during World War II and its aftermath. The order makes no mention of a plan to provide safe zones in Syria and the surrounding area. A draft of the order had directed the Pentagon and the State Department to produce a plan for safe zones in the war-torn Mideast nation. The president's directive capped a hectic first week for Trump at the White House, giving Americans an initial look at how he intends to position the United States around the globe. Earlier Friday, he hosted British Prime Minister Theresa May at the White House for his first meeting with a world leader since taking office. Asked about whether he would revert back to Bush-era use of torture, Trump said he would defer to the views of Defense Secretary Jim Mattis. "He has stated publicly that he does not necessarily believe in torture or waterboarding, or however you want to define it. ... I don't necessarily agree," Trump said. "But I would tell you that he will override because I'm giving him that power. He's an expert." The Associated Press and other news organizations have obtained copies of a draft executive order signaling sweeping changes to U.S. interrogation and detention policy. The draft, which the White House said was not official, also requests recommendations on whether the U.S. should reopen CIA detention facilities outside the United States. Critics said the clandestine sites have marred America's image on the world stage. Trump held firm Friday on another controversy  trade and illegal immigration from Mexico. He told reporters he had a "very good call" with Pena Nieto earlier in the day, but he reaffirmed his belief that Mexico has "outnegotiated and beat us to a pulp" on trade  and that would change. "We're no longer going to be the country that doesn't know what it's doing," he declared a day after the Mexican leader cancelled his visit to Washington in response to Trump's plans to build a border wall and have Mexico pay for it.
By PTI

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump will speak with leaders of Russia, Germany, France and Australia today, the White House said, covering major leaders of Europe. Trump's first phone call is scheduled to be with the Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, followed by that with German Chancellor Angela Markel and the Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Later in the afternoon, Trump is scheduled to speak with the French President Francis Hollande and the Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull. Trump will also sign a series of executive orders, the White House said. After becoming the 45th US President last Friday, Trump has so far spoken with leaders of Canada, Mexico, Egypt and Israel. Trump also spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump will speak with leaders of Russia, Germany, France and Australia today, the White House said, covering major leaders of Europe. Trump's first phone call is scheduled to be with the Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, followed by that with German Chancellor Angela Markel and the Russian President Vladimir Putin. Later in the afternoon, Trump is scheduled to speak with the French President Francis Hollande and the Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull. Trump will also sign a series of executive orders, the White House said. After becoming the 45th US President last Friday, Trump has so far spoken with leaders of Canada, Mexico, Egypt and Israel. Trump also spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
By Associated Press

LONDON: Anger erupted on Saturday  along with some praise from the far-right  about U.S. President Donald Trump's ban on refugees entering the United States.

The French president vigorously urged European leaders to present a united front against populism while the German foreign minister noted that "love thy neighbor" is a key part of America's Christian traditions. Turkey's prime minister insisted that "you cannot settle this issue by building walls."

In Israel, meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu greeted Trump's plan to build a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border as a "great idea."

FRENCH PRESIDENT FRANCOIS HOLLANDE

"Europe is facing a moment of truth. The issue is populism. What we are hearing from the U.S. encourages populism and even extremism. They are saying that Europe should not take immigrants, shouldn't stay together, not believe in climate change.

"We should engage in discussions (with the U.S.) that sometimes should be very firm. And as long as there are statements from the U.S. president about Europe, when he speaks about the model of Brexit for other countries, when the U.S. president talks about climate change ... saying he's not convinced of it, we should respond to him. When he takes protectionist measures, we should respond to him. When he destabilizes the economies of other countries, not only European ones, we should respond to him. When he rejects the arrival of refugees, while Europe has done its duty, we should respond to him."

TURKISH PRIME MINISTER BINALI YILDIRIM

"You cannot settle this (refugee) issue by building walls. Nobody leaves their homes for nothing."

Turkey has admitted some 3 million Syrian refugees since the start of the war in its neighbor.

"They came here to save their lives and our doors were open. And if the same thing happened again, we would do it again."

NOBEL PEACE PRIZE WINNER MALALA YOUSAFZAI

Donald Trump should not "turn his back on the world's most defenseless children and families." Refugees and immigrants, she says "have helped build your country."

IRANIAN PRESIDENT HASSAN ROUHANI

Those seeking to create walls between nations "have forgotten that the Berlin Wall collapsed years ago."

GERMAN FOREIGN MINISTER SIGMAR GABRIEL

"'Love thy neighbor' is part of this (American Christian) tradition, the act of helping others."

FRENCH FOREIGN MINISTER JEAN-MARC AYRAULT

"We have signed international obligations, so welcoming refugees fleeing war and oppression forms part of our duties."

THE INTERNATIONAL RESCUE COMMITTEE

The agency is calling President Donald Trump's suspension of the U.S. refugee resettlement program a "harmful and hasty" decision. IRC President David Miliband says "America must remain true to its core values. America must remain a beacon of hope."

NORWEGIAN REFUGEE COUNCIL

Trump's decision "will not make America safer, it will make America smaller and meaner."

BRITISH PRIME MINISTER THERESA MAY

"The United States is responsible for the United States' policy on refugees."

ISRAEL PRESIDENT BENJAMIN NETANYAHU

Netanyahu tweeted that Israel's wall along its border with Egypt had stemmed a swell of African migrants: "President Trump is right. I built a wall along Israel's southern border. It stopped all illegal immigration. Great success. Great idea."

FAR-RIGHT DUTCH POPULIST GEERT WILDERS

In a tweet, the Dutch anti-Islam populist Wilders, whose Party for Freedom is polling strongly ahead of the country's March 15 election, says: "No immigrants from Islamic countries."

LONDON: Anger erupted on Saturday  along with some praise from the far-right  about U.S. President Donald Trump's ban on refugees entering the United States. The French president vigorously urged European leaders to present a united front against populism while the German foreign minister noted that "love thy neighbor" is a key part of America's Christian traditions. Turkey's prime minister insisted that "you cannot settle this issue by building walls." In Israel, meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu greeted Trump's plan to build a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border as a "great idea." FRENCH PRESIDENT FRANCOIS HOLLANDE "Europe is facing a moment of truth. The issue is populism. What we are hearing from the U.S. encourages populism and even extremism. They are saying that Europe should not take immigrants, shouldn't stay together, not believe in climate change. "We should engage in discussions (with the U.S.) that sometimes should be very firm. And as long as there are statements from the U.S. president about Europe, when he speaks about the model of Brexit for other countries, when the U.S. president talks about climate change ... saying he's not convinced of it, we should respond to him. When he takes protectionist measures, we should respond to him. When he destabilizes the economies of other countries, not only European ones, we should respond to him. When he rejects the arrival of refugees, while Europe has done its duty, we should respond to him." TURKISH PRIME MINISTER BINALI YILDIRIM "You cannot settle this (refugee) issue by building walls. Nobody leaves their homes for nothing." Turkey has admitted some 3 million Syrian refugees since the start of the war in its neighbor. "They came here to save their lives and our doors were open. And if the same thing happened again, we would do it again." NOBEL PEACE PRIZE WINNER MALALA YOUSAFZAI Donald Trump should not "turn his back on the world's most defenseless children and families." Refugees and immigrants, she says "have helped build your country." IRANIAN PRESIDENT HASSAN ROUHANI Those seeking to create walls between nations "have forgotten that the Berlin Wall collapsed years ago." GERMAN FOREIGN MINISTER SIGMAR GABRIEL "'Love thy neighbor' is part of this (American Christian) tradition, the act of helping others." FRENCH FOREIGN MINISTER JEAN-MARC AYRAULT "We have signed international obligations, so welcoming refugees fleeing war and oppression forms part of our duties." THE INTERNATIONAL RESCUE COMMITTEE The agency is calling President Donald Trump's suspension of the U.S. refugee resettlement program a "harmful and hasty" decision. IRC President David Miliband says "America must remain true to its core values. America must remain a beacon of hope." NORWEGIAN REFUGEE COUNCIL Trump's decision "will not make America safer, it will make America smaller and meaner." BRITISH PRIME MINISTER THERESA MAY "The United States is responsible for the United States' policy on refugees." ISRAEL PRESIDENT BENJAMIN NETANYAHU Netanyahu tweeted that Israel's wall along its border with Egypt had stemmed a swell of African migrants: "President Trump is right. I built a wall along Israel's southern border. It stopped all illegal immigration. Great success. Great idea." FAR-RIGHT DUTCH POPULIST GEERT WILDERS In a tweet, the Dutch anti-Islam populist Wilders, whose Party for Freedom is polling strongly ahead of the country's March 15 election, says: "No immigrants from Islamic countries."
By Associated Press

WASHINGTON: One week into office, President Donald Trump was trying to clean up his first international incident.

The president shifted a jam-packed schedule Friday to make room for an hour-long phone call with Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto, who had abruptly snubbed the new president by cancelling a visit. Trump's team had appeared to respond by threatening a hefty border tax on Mexican imports.

By the end of the conversation, Trump had tasked his son-in-law and senior adviser, Jared Kushner  a real estate executive with no national security experience  with managing the ongoing dispute, according to an administration official with knowledge of the call.

The episode, an uneven diplomatic debut, revealed the earliest signs of how the new president plans to manage world affairs. In a matter of days, he both alarmed and reassured international partners. He picked fights, then quickly backed away from them. He talked tough, and toned it down. And at each step, Trump relied on the small clutch of advisers that guided his norm-breaking campaign, a group with scant foreign policy experience but the trust of the president.

Much of the foreign policy decision-making has rested with Kushner and Steve Bannon, the conservative media executive turned White House adviser, according to administration officials and diplomats. Rex Tillerson, his nominee for secretary of state, is still awaiting confirmation. Officials at the National Security Council, an agency Trump has described as bloated, are still seeking marching orders from the new administration.

Some of Trump's early diplomatic moves have followed standard protocols. He scheduled early phone calls with friendly allies, including Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who both plan to meet Trump at the White House next month. Additional calls were planned Saturday with German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Francois Hollande, key European partners.

But Trump also moved swiftly to announce a new era. He declared an end to efforts to pursue multi-nation trade deals and used his first executive action to withdraw the U.S. from a sweeping Pacific Rim pact. He also effectively closed off the United States to refugees, at least temporarily, and risked angering the Arab world by halting visas for people from seven majority Muslim nations for at least three months.

On his first full day as president, he told members of the intelligence community gathered at CIA headquarters that the U.S. should have taken Iraq's oil for "economic reasons," given America's efforts in the country, adding, "But, OK, maybe you'll have another chance."

Some officials at the National Security Council raised concerns over several elements of the refugee measure, as well as other early actions the president took on border security. But administration officials say Trump's inner circle has addressed few of their concerns.

Administration officials and diplomats insisted on anonymity to disclose private dealings with the White House.

Kushner and Bannon have been heavily involved in the Trump administration's early dealings with some European partners, leading during both phone calls and in-person meetings with diplomats and government officials.

In a discussion with British officials, Kushner is said to have angrily denounced the United Kingdom's decision to support a U.N. Security Council resolution condemning the expansion of Israeli settlements. The U.S. abstained from the vote before President Barack Obama left office, brushing aside Trump's demands that the U.S. exercise its veto.

Asked about Kushner's involvement on foreign policy, a White House official said he was "particularly well-suited for sensitive negotiations and relationship building."

In contrast with the Trump team's strong views on Israel, European partners have been left largely in the dark about Trump's approach to Russia. Some are on edge over a phone call with Putin on Saturday and fear he may strike a deal that leads to the removal of U.S. sanctions on Russia. The call was said to be arranged by national security adviser Mike Flynn, who has kept a low profile in recent days amid scrutiny over his ties to Russian officials.

Trump did little to ease anxieties Friday when he pointedly refused to say whether he planned to keep in place economic sanctions on Russia as punishment for its provocations in Ukraine.

"We'll see what happens," Trump said during a news conference with British Prime Minister Theresa May.

The prime minister was the first world leader to meet Trump following last week's inauguration, underscoring May's eagerness to get a reading on a man who is a mystery to many world leaders. Trump was measured during their brief joint press conference, but he also showed flashes of charm, joking with May about a British reporter's pointed question about his position on torture and complimenting her for being a "people person."

A visit from Pena Nieto to Washington had been expected to follow May's. But after Trump needled the Mexican president on Twitter, saying it would be better for him not to come if he couldn't commit to paying for Trump's proposed wall along the U.S. southern border, Pena Nieto told the White House he wouldn't be coming.

The White House quickly threatened to slap a 20 percent tax on imports from Mexico to pay for the wall, though officials quickly tried to walk the proposal back, saying it was just one option being considered.

Kushner, who already wields enormous power in the White House, is expected to work through the dispute with Mexican Foreign Minister Luis Videgaray. The two men, who know each other from the financial circles, also worked together to arrange Trump's surprise visit to Mexico during the presidential campaign.

The readouts released by the two countries after Friday's call pointed to the work to be done. A statement from Mexico said the presidents agreed "to no longer speak publicly" about their dispute over payment for the border wall.

The White House statement made no such promise.

WASHINGTON: One week into office, President Donald Trump was trying to clean up his first international incident. The president shifted a jam-packed schedule Friday to make room for an hour-long phone call with Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto, who had abruptly snubbed the new president by cancelling a visit. Trump's team had appeared to respond by threatening a hefty border tax on Mexican imports. By the end of the conversation, Trump had tasked his son-in-law and senior adviser, Jared Kushner  a real estate executive with no national security experience  with managing the ongoing dispute, according to an administration official with knowledge of the call. The episode, an uneven diplomatic debut, revealed the earliest signs of how the new president plans to manage world affairs. In a matter of days, he both alarmed and reassured international partners. He picked fights, then quickly backed away from them. He talked tough, and toned it down. And at each step, Trump relied on the small clutch of advisers that guided his norm-breaking campaign, a group with scant foreign policy experience but the trust of the president. Much of the foreign policy decision-making has rested with Kushner and Steve Bannon, the conservative media executive turned White House adviser, according to administration officials and diplomats. Rex Tillerson, his nominee for secretary of state, is still awaiting confirmation. Officials at the National Security Council, an agency Trump has described as bloated, are still seeking marching orders from the new administration. Some of Trump's early diplomatic moves have followed standard protocols. He scheduled early phone calls with friendly allies, including Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who both plan to meet Trump at the White House next month. Additional calls were planned Saturday with German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Francois Hollande, key European partners. But Trump also moved swiftly to announce a new era. He declared an end to efforts to pursue multi-nation trade deals and used his first executive action to withdraw the U.S. from a sweeping Pacific Rim pact. He also effectively closed off the United States to refugees, at least temporarily, and risked angering the Arab world by halting visas for people from seven majority Muslim nations for at least three months. On his first full day as president, he told members of the intelligence community gathered at CIA headquarters that the U.S. should have taken Iraq's oil for "economic reasons," given America's efforts in the country, adding, "But, OK, maybe you'll have another chance." Some officials at the National Security Council raised concerns over several elements of the refugee measure, as well as other early actions the president took on border security. But administration officials say Trump's inner circle has addressed few of their concerns. Administration officials and diplomats insisted on anonymity to disclose private dealings with the White House. Kushner and Bannon have been heavily involved in the Trump administration's early dealings with some European partners, leading during both phone calls and in-person meetings with diplomats and government officials. In a discussion with British officials, Kushner is said to have angrily denounced the United Kingdom's decision to support a U.N. Security Council resolution condemning the expansion of Israeli settlements. The U.S. abstained from the vote before President Barack Obama left office, brushing aside Trump's demands that the U.S. exercise its veto. Asked about Kushner's involvement on foreign policy, a White House official said he was "particularly well-suited for sensitive negotiations and relationship building." In contrast with the Trump team's strong views on Israel, European partners have been left largely in the dark about Trump's approach to Russia. Some are on edge over a phone call with Putin on Saturday and fear he may strike a deal that leads to the removal of U.S. sanctions on Russia. The call was said to be arranged by national security adviser Mike Flynn, who has kept a low profile in recent days amid scrutiny over his ties to Russian officials. Trump did little to ease anxieties Friday when he pointedly refused to say whether he planned to keep in place economic sanctions on Russia as punishment for its provocations in Ukraine. "We'll see what happens," Trump said during a news conference with British Prime Minister Theresa May. The prime minister was the first world leader to meet Trump following last week's inauguration, underscoring May's eagerness to get a reading on a man who is a mystery to many world leaders. Trump was measured during their brief joint press conference, but he also showed flashes of charm, joking with May about a British reporter's pointed question about his position on torture and complimenting her for being a "people person." A visit from Pena Nieto to Washington had been expected to follow May's. But after Trump needled the Mexican president on Twitter, saying it would be better for him not to come if he couldn't commit to paying for Trump's proposed wall along the U.S. southern border, Pena Nieto told the White House he wouldn't be coming. The White House quickly threatened to slap a 20 percent tax on imports from Mexico to pay for the wall, though officials quickly tried to walk the proposal back, saying it was just one option being considered. Kushner, who already wields enormous power in the White House, is expected to work through the dispute with Mexican Foreign Minister Luis Videgaray. The two men, who know each other from the financial circles, also worked together to arrange Trump's surprise visit to Mexico during the presidential campaign. The readouts released by the two countries after Friday's call pointed to the work to be done. A statement from Mexico said the presidents agreed "to no longer speak publicly" about their dispute over payment for the border wall. The White House statement made no such promise.
By Associated Press

BERLIN: German Chancellor Angela Merkel and U.S. President Donald Trump discussed conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine on Saturday and agreed on the importance of NATO during their first call since Trump's inauguration, according to joint statement by Merkel's office.

The two leaders had an "extensive phone conversation" in which they also talked about relations with Russia, said Merkel's spokesman Steffen Seibert.

"They expressed their intention to further deepen the already excellent bilateral relations in the coming years," Seibert said.

On NATO, both agreed on the "fundamental importance that the NATO alliance has for trans-Atlantic relations" and the need for all members to pay their fair share. Trump has repeatedly said some U.S. allies don't spend enough on their militaries.

In the joint statement, there was no mention of refugees, not even of Trump's move on Friday banning refugees from several Muslim-majority countries from entering the United States. That move drew sharp criticism Saturday from French President Francois Hollande, Germany's European Union ally, among others.

Trump had severely criticized Merkel during his election campaign, claiming she was "ruining" Germany by allowing hundreds of thousands of asylum-seekers into the country.

In turn, Merkel had raised eyebrows after Trump's victory by insisting that the basis for cooperation between Berlin and Washington should be "democracy, freedom and human rights worldwide, and to strive for an open and liberal world order."

Seibert said Trump accepted Merkel's invitation to attend the G-20 meeting in Hamburg, Germany, in July. Trump also said he looked forward to welcoming Merkel in Washington "soon," according to the statement.

It was the second time Trump and Merkel have spoken by phone. They first spoke when the German chancellor called Trump shortly after the election to congratulate him on his victory.

BERLIN: German Chancellor Angela Merkel and U.S. President Donald Trump discussed conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine on Saturday and agreed on the importance of NATO during their first call since Trump's inauguration, according to joint statement by Merkel's office. The two leaders had an "extensive phone conversation" in which they also talked about relations with Russia, said Merkel's spokesman Steffen Seibert. "They expressed their intention to further deepen the already excellent bilateral relations in the coming years," Seibert said. On NATO, both agreed on the "fundamental importance that the NATO alliance has for trans-Atlantic relations" and the need for all members to pay their fair share. Trump has repeatedly said some U.S. allies don't spend enough on their militaries. In the joint statement, there was no mention of refugees, not even of Trump's move on Friday banning refugees from several Muslim-majority countries from entering the United States. That move drew sharp criticism Saturday from French President Francois Hollande, Germany's European Union ally, among others. Trump had severely criticized Merkel during his election campaign, claiming she was "ruining" Germany by allowing hundreds of thousands of asylum-seekers into the country. In turn, Merkel had raised eyebrows after Trump's victory by insisting that the basis for cooperation between Berlin and Washington should be "democracy, freedom and human rights worldwide, and to strive for an open and liberal world order." Seibert said Trump accepted Merkel's invitation to attend the G-20 meeting in Hamburg, Germany, in July. Trump also said he looked forward to welcoming Merkel in Washington "soon," according to the statement. It was the second time Trump and Merkel have spoken by phone. They first spoke when the German chancellor called Trump shortly after the election to congratulate him on his victory.
J-K avalanche: Parrikar extends condolences to bereaved families

New Delhi , Jan. 26 : Expressing grief over loss of lives due to the avalanche that struck army camp in Gurez Sector of Jammu and Kashmir, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar on Thursday extended his condolences to bereaved families.





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"Heartfelt condolences to families of our Armymen who have lost their lives in avalanches in J&K in the past two days," Parrikar tweeted.At least 10 Army personnel have lost their lives in avalanche that the army camp here yesterday.Rescue operations were immediately launched in the extremely bad weather and heavy snow fall.In another avalanche in the same area yesterday, one Army patrol moving towards the post went missing.The area continues to receive heavy snow fall.Braving inhospitable weather conditions, rescue operations are in progress.
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Toronto: Researchers identify birthplaces of monarch butterfly to help conserve species

Toronto, Jan. 27 : Researchers at the University of Guelph, near Toronto are studying in great depth birthplaces of monarch butterflies that overwinter in Mexico, to help them guide conservation efforts for the declining species, media reports said.





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The researchers have collected wing tissue samples from more than 1,000 specimens over a period of nearly 40 years and analyzed their chemical composition, to determine where the butterflies had lived as caterpillars, then looked for patterns in the large data set, ScienceDaily reports said.Their findings were both surprising and interesting.We went into the study expecting that most of the butterflies were going to be coming from the Midwestern U.S. states, and we did find that, but the proportion of butterflies coming out of the Midwest was lower than we thought, said lead author Tyler Flockhart, a Liber Ero postdoctoral fellow in the Department of Integrative Biology at the University of Guelph, ScienceDaily reports said.The largest percentage of monarchs migrated to Mexico from the American Midwest, but the biologists were surprised to find that the insects origins were spread fairly evenly throughout Canada and the United States.The study suggested to spread conservation efforts a little bit wider to ensure that this population doesnt disappear.Analyzing more than 1,000 samples, the research team looked at chemical isotope signatures showing where the butterflies were born in the previous summer and fall.They found that 12 percent of the insects were born in the northwestern U.S. and Canadian Prairies, 17 percent in the north-central States and Ontario, 15 per cent in the northeastern U.S. and the Maritimes, 11 percent in the south-central U.S. and eight percent in the southeastern States.We didnt see the decline in the proportion of monarchs we expected in the breadbasket of the U.S. -- the Midwestern states -- due to the loss of milkweed, but that could be because monarch numbers dropped across North America, said Flockhart.Co-author and integrative biology professor Ryan Norris said the study shows monarch conservation efforts must begin immediately throughout North America. He called for better collection and analysis of butterflies in their Mexican overwintering grounds to monitor the effects of conservation efforts.Were facing a growing crisis of species extinction, not just with monarchs, said Norris, co-author of the new paper. While the Midwest U.S.A. is top-priority, effective conservation of monarchs will require initiatives to restore and conserve habitats across the species range, which means there must be coordinated international initiatives, Journal of Analysis and News Reports said.The Guelph researchers worked with collaborators at Western University in London, Ont., the University of Georgia, Sweet Briar College in Virginia, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Environment Canada and the International Atomic Energy Agency.Most of the older monarch samples were collected by Lincoln Brower of Sweet Briar College, who has studied the butterflies for more than 50 years.The study was published this month in Global Change Biology.The North American monarch population has declined by 80 percent over the past two decades, in part due to the disappearance of milkweed, the butterflies primary food source during the reproductive season. The insect is currently listed as being of special concern in Canada, but following a recent review, the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) has recommended its status be changed to threatened.(Reporting by Asha Bajaj)
With 2.2 million Afghans feared to be on the move, UN agency to begin tracking displacements, aid relief

New York, Jan 27 : Amid concerns of a severe humanitarian crisis induced by sudden return home of hundreds of thousands of Afghan refugees and undocumented citizens, coupled with conflict-induced displacement, the United Nations migration agency has launched a new displacement tracking system to better understand population movements and needs in the crisis-struck country.





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There is an urgent need to know where people in vulnerable situations are living and what their needs are, said the head of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) operations in Afghanistan, Laurence Hart.In a news release issued earlier on Friday, he added: With a system in place to clearly track these concerns, humanitarian actors and the Government can deliver assistance and services to the families and communities that need it most.The UN agency hopes that with the launch of its Displacement Tracking Matrix a system that employs a range of tools and processes to track and monitor population movement during crises humanitarian actors will have a better understanding of the movements and evolving needs of vulnerable populations, whether on site or en route, and be alerted to urgent concerns, greatly facilitating humanitarian response.According to IOM, in 2016, more than 600,000 registered refugees and undocumented Afghans returned back from Pakistan and, based on estimates, a further 1 million are expected to return in 2017.On top of the returning population, last year also saw conflict-induced displacement of over 623,000, and an additional 450,000 people are expected to become internally displaced due to the ongoing conflict this year.Additional strain on overstretched servicesThere are particular concerns that such large-scale returns and intensified conflict, combined with rapid urbanization, have created additional strain on already overstretched local services. Further compounding the issue is the lack of accurate information on the location and needs of people who have returned or those who have been forced to leave their homes.The first phase of the Displacement Tracking Matrix in Afghanistan will put a framework in place to track at risk populations in Nangarhar, Laghman and Kunar provinces.IOM said that its staff in these provinces will consult with community leaders and elders, national and local authorities, as well as previous registrations and assessments. They will also conduct field visits to get a comprehensive picture of the estimated number of returnees from abroad, internal movements and needs and conditions at the village, district and provincial levels.While there is good tracking along the borders, there is little knowledge of the actual final destinations, the villages and neighbourhoods, where people are arriving, said IOM Human Mobility Tracking Expert Vlatko Avramovski. The Matrix will deliver this information regularly and accurately.Photo: OCHA (file)Source: www.justearthnews.com
Human rights community mourns passing of Sir Nigel Rodley, former UN rights expert

New York, Jan 27 : Expressing sadness at the passing of noted rights icon, Sir Nigel Rodley, the United Nations human rights wing today recalled the contributions of one of the best known public faces, and most eloquent voices of the UN Human Rights Committee.





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Affectionately known to the human rights community as Sir Nigel, the rights expert passed away on 25 January, at the age of 75.He would speak directly and frankly to anyone, even the most powerful; yet would also treat everyone with great humanity and kindness, Rupert Colville, the spokesperson for the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), told the regular bi-weekly media briefing in Geneva.In addition to serving at the Human Rights Committee the independent expert body that monitors worldwide implementation of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights for 16 years between 2001 and 2016, Sir Nigel was a former UN Special Rapporteur on Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment from 1993 to 2001, a devoted human rights defender and also an academic.For us at the UN Human Rights Office, he was someone who was always willing to pass on his knowledge and experience to a younger generation, said Mr. Colville.Sir Nigel was also the Professor of Law and Chair of the Human Rights Centre at the University of Essex in the United Kingdom. Many of his students are now working at OHCHR as well as at various other human rights institutions around the world.Quoting OHCHR staff, he added: Sir Nigel could be sharp, and he certainly pointed out your mistakes, but he was also generous with his praise.UN Photo/Paulo FilgueirasSource: www.justearthnews.com
UN hosted negotiations on Syrian conflict postponed

New York [U.S.], Jan. 27 : The United Nations hosted negotiations on the Syrian conflict planned for February 8 in Geneva have been postponed.





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Russia's Foreign Minister,Sergey Lavrov said in a meeting with Syrian opposition representatives in Moscow that U.N.mediated Geneva talks, previously set for February 8, have been postponed until the end of the month.However, there was no confirmation from the United Nations on the latest plans for the next round of talks between the Syrian regime and opposition.
UN yet to confirm on postponement of Syrian conflict talks

New York [US], Jan. 27: The United Nations on Friday said that there has been no confirmation that talks on the Syrian conflict planned for February 8 in Geneva have been postponed as earlier announced by Russia.





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A spokeswoman for UN special envoy Staffan de Mistura said today that there is no confirmation that the talks are postponed. He said, UN will confirm after the special envoy is back from talks next week with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres.Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said earlier today that the Geneva talks would be postponed until the end of February.
Putin, Trump set for phone call today

London [UK], Jan. 28 : Russian President Vladimir Putin will speak to his U.S. counterpart Donald Trump via telephone on Saturday in their first conversation since the latter took office.





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This comes as recently, top Trump advisor Kellyanne Conway said that removing U.S. sanctions on Russia is "under consideration", reports the Guardian.Trump has been steadfast in his praise for Putin and Russia and ascended to the presidency amid allegations of Russian interference in the election campaign.He has hinted he could look at removing sanctions on Russia, and has suggested the U.S. and Russia could work together in Syria, where Russia is allied with the Syrian president, Bashar al-Assad.Putin's spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, said the Russian President would congratulate Trump on taking office and would launch a discussion on the current bilateral relationship. He said it was unlikely there would be specific agreements reached in the initial call.Peskov said he was unaware of any plans to lift the sanctions.Conway, a White House senior aide, told This Morning on CBS that Trump and Putin were likely to discuss efforts to combat terrorism."I assume they will discuss, in the interests of their respective countries, how to come together and work together on issues where you can find common ground and where these two nations could maybe defeat radical Islamic terrorism," she said.Reportedly, Trump is also due to speak with German chancellor Angela Merkel on Saturday.
After cancelled meeting, Trump talks to Mexican Prez on phone

Washington D. C. [USA], Jan. 28 : A day after Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto cancelled a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump after renewed tensions over the border wall, the two leaders held a conversation over phone on Friday.





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"The United States President Donald J. Trump and Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto spoke by phone this morning for an hour. The call was mutually arranged by their teams," said an official statement posted on Trump's Facebook Page.According to the statement, "The two had a productive and constructive call regarding the bilateral relationship between the two countries, the current trade deficit the United States has with Mexico, the importance of the friendship between the two nations, and the need for the two nations to work together to stop drug cartels, drug trafficking and illegal guns and arms sales."It also said that the two sides agreed to solve their difference over the border wall through a comprehensive dialogue."With respect to payment for the border wall, both presidents recognize their clear and very public differences of positions on this issue but have agreed to work these differences out as part of a comprehensive discussion on all aspects of the bilateral relationship," said the joint statement.Both the Presidents have instructed their teams to continue the dialogue to strengthen this important strategic and economic relationship in a constructive way, it added.
Assembly elections will confirm PM is not popular anymore: NCP

New Delhi [India], Jan. 28 : Training its guns on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) on Saturday said the upcoming five state assembly elections would confirm that the former's popularity, which was there in 2014, is no more.





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"The Prime Minister is not realising and is still under the impression that there is a positive environment of the BJP. The Prime Minister's performance in the last two-two and a half years have been very negative. The people are now gradually losing faith in him. The upcoming five state assembly polls would confirm that his popularity which was there in 2014 is no more," NCP leader Tariq Anwar told ANI.As Punjab goes to polls on February 4, Prime Minister Narendra Modi yesterday openly called the Congress a 'sinking boat', adding that it has lost its identity.Terming the grand old party 'a thing of the past', Prime Minister Modi said it is in a bad shape and nobody knows the colour, form and intention of this party."In order to save itself, the Congress is resorting to 'give us anything at any cost'," said Prime Minister Modi while addressing a campaigning rally here.Blatantly hitting out at the Congress, the Prime Minister said that the party allied with the Left in West Bengal for its survival and then taking advantage of the Samajwadi Party (SP) feud, allied with it as well in Uttar Pradesh."Congress, at first, badmouthed the SP in UP, but after seeing the conflict within the party, allied with them," said Prime Minister Modi.Drawing an analogy, Prime Minister Modi said that the Congress was struggling for power in a similar way as a fish does without water.Batting for Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal as the deserving chief of the state, Prime Minister Modi said, "Punjab wants to see Parkash Singh Badal as the Chief Minister again. He has always worked for Punjab."Showering praises on Badal, Prime Minister Modi said the former spent years in public life but never changed parties or compromised on ideals."For Badal 'Sahab', what matters is the poor, the farmers, the villages," he added.With BJP-Akali Dal alliance for Punjab Assembly elections, Prime Minister Modi strongly campaigned for Badal, asserting that he is the right person to rule the state.
BJP to release its UP poll manifesto

New Delhi [India], Jan. 28 : The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will on Saturday release its election manifesto for Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections.





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BJP chief Amit Shah will release the manifesto in Lucknow.The BJP poll manifesto will counter the ruling Samajwadi Party's free smart phone, pressure cooker, e-rickshaws and bicycle to girls.Although there is less chance of the BJP going for announcement of some freebies, it will certainly have house for all and jobs for the youths in its manifesto.Report suggests that the party would skip the Ram Temple issue this time.The BJP earlier on January 22 promised a slew of populist schemes in its manifesto for Punjab Assembly polls like providing sugar and ghee at low prices, houses to the poor, land to Dalits and backwards, besides assuring Rs. five lakh assistance to the families affected by militancy.Union Finanace Minister Arun Jaitley, while releasing the document in Jalandhar, said the BJP's manifesto is particularly aimed at improving the social infrastructure in Punjab, even as he slammed the Congress for its policies which he alleged paved way for militancy in Punjab in 1980s and termed its 2002-2007 tenure in power as "most dishonest and corrupt."Noting that the SAD-BJP government in Punjab is already running 'atta-dal' scheme, the BJP manifesto has promised providing two kg ghee for Rs. 25 per kilo and five kg sugar at Rs. 10 a kilo to the blue card holders in the state.Uttar Pradesh is set to have a seven-phase polling between February 11 and March 8.
Research suggests safer, effective way to improve stroke treatments

Washington D.C. [USA], Jan. 28 : A team of researchers has demonstrated that a drug in combination with an enzyme that helps dissolve clots may improve stroke outcomes by reducing these complications and increasing its efficacy in opening blood vessels.





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The standard of care for treating strokes caused by blood clots involves the therapeutic infusion of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) -- an enzyme that helps dissolve clots, which can help to dissolve the clots and restore blood flow.The study was published in the journal Blood.Working with animal models, the researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center in Massachusetts, United States have demonstrated the potential of giving a drug in combination with tPA that might improve stroke outcomes."Drugs that target a protein called plasma kallikrein, as well as an activator protein called factor XII, "may provide the opportunity to make tPA safer by reducing these complications and increasing its efficacy in opening blood vessels," said study author Edward Feener.About 8, 00,000 people in the United States suffer a stroke each year, and about 87% are ischemic strokes, in which blood flow is blocked by a clot.Lead author Fabricio Simao with his colleagues demonstrated that tPA boosts the activity of plasma kallikrein in both human and mouse plasma.They experimented with mouse models in which blood clots were induced in the brain and then treated with tPA.Animals were also given a plasma kallikrein inhibitor and were genetically modified to produce lower amounts of the protein.It showed significantly less bleeding, brain swelling and damaged brain areas than control animals without plasma kallikrein blockade.Plasma kallikrein is known to activate the kallikrein kinin system, a pathway that has been implicated in stroke complications including brain swelling and breakdown of the blood-brain barrier.These new findings suggest additional potential therapeutic opportunities for plasma kallikrein inhibitors in thrombolytic therapy.
Pakistan, Iran agree to enhance trade to five billion dollars

Islamabad [Pakistan], Jan. 28 : Pakistan and Iran have agreed to increase the volume of bilateral trade to five billion dollars.





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Chairman for the Committee for Foreign Policy and National Security of Iran, Allauddin Boroujerdi made these remarks while addressing a press conference in Islamabad.Earlier, Boroujerdi held talks with Pakistan National Security Adviser Nasser Khan Janjua on Friday and discussed matters pertaining to security of the region.Janjua said that Pakistan attaches great value to its relations with neighbour country Iran.Boroujerdi said that Iran is a very close friend of Pakistan and there is a need to further improve bilateral relations.He said Gwadar and Chabahar are sister ports, and they will help boost bilateral trade.Boroujerdi added that Iran Pakistan Gas Pipeline was on the top priorities of both the countries.
U.S. Defense Secretary orders review of Air Force One, F-35 fighter jet program

New York [United States], Jan. 28 : The Pentagon has said in a statement that the U.S. Defense Secretary James Mattis has ordered reviews of the new Air Force One presidential aircraft and F-35 fighter jet programs.





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This move comes after President Donald Trump had last month called for a review to replace the costly F-35 variant with a modified version of the older F/A-18 aircraft and if the cost of the new Air Force One could be reduced."This is a prudent step to incorporate additional information into the budget preparation process and to inform the secretary's recommendations to the President regarding critical military capabilities," CNN quoted Pentagon spokesman Captain Jeff Davis as saying.Various lawmakers had previously criticized the F-35 program for its history of schedule delays resulting in the cost of the program getting nearly doubled to the original budget.Lockheed Martin's CEO had assured President Trump last month to reduce the cost of the stealthy F-35 fighter jet after the latter had criticized the program.The F-35 fighter jet program is the most expensive military weapons system in history, and has been much criticized inside and outside government, in the U.S. and in allied countries."Lockheed Martin stands ready to support Secretary Mattis' review of the F-35 program and welcomes the appropriate focus on affordability and capability," the company said in a statement Friday."We are confident such a thorough and objective analysis will show that only the F-35, with its advanced stealth and sensors, can meet the 21st century air superiority requirements of all of our military services," the statement added.
Enraged but we are helpless: Vikram Bhatt on Bhansali's attack

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], Jan. 28 : Filmmaker Vikram Bhatt has expressed disgust over the physical assault Sanjay Leela Bhansali was subjected to at the sets of 'Padmavati' in Jaipur and termed the whole incident as 'unfortunate'.





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"The most unfortunate thing is that filmmakers and artists live in glass houses. We are always scared that at anytime someone can pelt a stone at us. There is no protection for us," he told ANI."I don't know what is the solution for this. Who do we arrest when it was a group? The whole film fraternity is with him (Bhansali). My blood is boiling but sadly we are not able to do anything. We are helpless." Bhatt added.B-town celebs have all come together to condemn the incident where a group of activists from Shree Rajput Karni Sena forced stopped the shooting of Bhansali's next directorial venture by vandalising the set at Jaigarh Fort, of Jaipur and also assaulted him.The video of crime has been going viral on social media platforms.
Fresh avalanche hits Army post in Kupwara, 5 soldiers feared trapped

Srinagar [India], Jan. 28 : A fresh avalanche hit an Army post today in Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir, in which five soldiers are feared to be trapped in the snow.





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Massive rescue operations were launched immediately to rescue the trapped Army personnel.The five soldiers of a patrol were immediately trapped as the snow track caved in.This comes in the wake of the two separate avalanches in Gurez and Sonmarg on Wednesday, in which two soldiers lost their lives.Two ghastly avalanches had hit an army camp in Gurez sector of Bandipora district near the Line of Control and the Army camp of 115 Battalion at Sonmarg in central Kashmir's Ganderbal district respectively.While an avalanche hit a patrol party which was on its way to a post in Gurez sector on Wednesday night, the other hit two shelters occupied by two officers and four jawans.The number of soldiers who died in the avalanches in the Gurez valley rose to 14 as four more bodies were recovered after the weather improved on Friday morning.Fifteen soldiers have lost their lives in three major avalanches in Ganderbal and Bandipora since January 25.Earlier, local authorities had issued a high danger avalanche warning for the hilly areas of Kashmir valley for the next 24 hours.An official spokesman said the warning has been issued for avalanche-prone slopes of Kupwara, Bandipora, Baramulla, Ganderbal, Kulgam and Budgam and Kargil district of Kashmir division.Deputy Commissioners of Kashmir division, including Leh and Kargil, have been asked to take precautionary measures in their districts and advised people not to venture in avalanche-prone areas.Locals have also been asked to keep clearing snow deposits from roof tops of their houses and bunkers to avoid any damage.
Mark Zuckerberg expresses concern over Trump's immigration orders

New York [United States], Jan. 28 : Criticizing U.S. President Donald Trump's executive order on immigration and refugees, Facebook CEO and cofounder Mark Zuckerberg has expressed his concern on this decision.





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"Like many of you, I'm concerned about the impact of the recent executive orders signed by President Trump," CNN quoted Zuckerberg, as saying in a Facebook post, which cited his family's immigrant background and his volunteer work with undocumented schoolchildren.Zuckerberg in his post said that the U.S. should keep their doors open to refugees and those who need help.He said his wife Priscilla's wouldn't be here if the country had turned away refugees a few decades ago.Trump has signed two executive actions, including one limiting the flow of refugees into the country by instituting "extreme vetting" of immigrants.The executive order is titled "Protection of the Nation from Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States".Zuckerberg said the administration should keep the country safe by focusing on people who actually pose a threat."Expanding the focus of law enforcement beyond people who are real threats would make all Americans less safe by diverting resources, while millions of undocumented folks who don't pose a threat will live in fear of deportation," he wrote.Zuckerberg's latest criticism comes just one day after Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg criticized Trump on abortion policy.
Kupwara: Army personnel trapped under snow rescued

Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], Jan. 28 : All five army personnel, who were trapped under snow in Kupwara's Macchil sector along the Line of Control (LoC) here when the track leading to their post caved in, have been rescued alive.





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The rescued personnel are presently under treatment.Massive rescue operations were launched immediately to rescue the trapped Army personnel.This comes in the wake of the two separate avalanches in Gurez and Sonmarg on Wednesday, in which two soldiers lost their lives.Two ghastly avalanches had hit an army camp in Gurez sector of Bandipora district near the Line of Control and the Army camp of 115 Battalion at Sonmarg in central Kashmir's Ganderbal district respectively.While an avalanche hit a patrol party which was on its way to a post in Gurez sector on Wednesday night, the other hit two shelters occupied by two officers and four jawans.The number of soldiers who died in the avalanches in the Gurez valley rose to 14 as four more bodies were recovered after the weather improved on Friday morning.Fifteen soldiers have lost their lives in three major avalanches in Ganderbal and Bandipora since January 25.Deputy Commissioners of Kashmir division, including Leh and Kargil, have been asked to take precautionary measures in their districts and advised people not to venture in avalanche-prone areas.Locals have also been asked to keep clearing snow deposits from roof tops of their houses and bunkers to avoid any damage.
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3 Newport County teams are one win from playing for a title

The playoffs are underway, and there are teams still alive, while others have been eliminated.
Champaign, IL (61820)

Today

Windy at times...showers and thunderstorms this morning will give way to cloudy skies this afternoon. Morning high of 61F with temps falling to near 50. Winds SSW at 25 to 35 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Winds could occasionally gust over 50 mph..

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Clear skies. Low 42F. Winds SSW at 10 to 20 mph.
Women over 50 who have been treated for ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) are more likely to be alive ten years later than women in the general population, according to new research presented at the European Cancer Congress 2017.

DCIS differs from breast cancer because it is non-invasive, meaning it cannot spread around the body. However, because it can progress into an invasive breast cancer, which can be life-threatening, it is usually treated with surgery, or surgery and radiation therapy. The number of women being diagnosed with DCIS is increasing because it is picked up by breast screening programmes.

The findings, presented at the Congress by Dr Lotte Elshof, showed that, although women with DCIS have a higher risk of dying from breast cancer, overall they have a slightly lower risk of dying from any cause.

Researchers from the Netherlands Cancer Institute say their results should provide reassurance to women who are diagnosed with the disease.

Led by Dr Jelle Wesseling, a breast pathologist at the Netherlands Cancer Institute, the team studied data on almost 10,000 Dutch women who were diagnosed with DCIS between 1989 and 2004. They tracked the patients over an average of 10 years and compared their death rates with the expected mortality in the general population. They found that women over 50 who had been treated for the condition had a ten per cent lower risk of dying from any cause compared to the general population.

Dr Lotte Elshof, research physician and epidemiologist at the Netherlands Cancer Institute who analysed the data, told the Congress: "Being diagnosed with DCIS can be extremely distressing, and research indicates that many women overestimate the risks involved and are confused about treatment. This study should provide reassurance that a diagnosis of DCIS does not raise the risk of dying.

"It might seem surprising that this group of women actually has a lower mortality rate than the general population. However, the vast majority would have been diagnosed via breast screening, which suggests they may be health-conscious and well enough to participate in screening."

The study shows that DCIS patients had a two and half per cent risk of dying of breast cancer after ten years. At 15 years, the risk was four per cent. These rates are higher than in the general population. However, the study also showed that the rates were getting lower in women diagnosed with DCIS more recently.

Patients were ten per cent less likely to die from all causes combined compared to the general population. Specifically, they had a lower risk of dying from diseases of the circulatory, respiratory and digestive systems and other cancers. The researchers say this finding is important because treating DCIS with radiotherapy could cause side-effects, including damage to nearby organs such as the heart.

The team are beginning an international collaboration with researchers in the UK and USA. This will allow them to increase the size of the study and to try to understand why some cases of DCIS progress into invasive cancer, while others do not.

Professor Philip Poortmans, President-elect of ECCO and head of the Radiation Oncology Department at Radboud university medical center (Nijmegen, The Netherlands), said: "Ductal carcinoma in situ can be a worrying and confusing diagnosis for many women, especially due to the word 'carcinoma'. Although it should be considered as being clearly different from breast cancer, it can progress into breast cancer, even after removal of the entire breast or after breast conserving therapy consisting of surgery, generally combined with radiation therapy.

"Moreover, those treatments can have side-effects, including on the heart. This research provides reassurance for women diagnosed with DCIS because it shows that they are as likely to be alive ten years after the diagnosis as people in the general population who did not have DCIS. This is also reassuring with regards to the potential risks of side-effects.

"However, we have to recognise that in one fifth of the patients who die, the cause is breast cancer, which is likely to result from progression of the DCIS they were diagnosed with. Therefore, we are eagerly waiting for the results of further research to identify the factors - including age, as clearly shown in this study - that contribute to the risk for recurrence and progression from DCIS for each individual patient.

"Remarkably, the increased risk of dying from breast cancer is completely offset by a lower risk of dying from other causes compared to women in the general population. This might be explained by the generally better health and socioeconomic status of women who regularly participate in breast cancer screening. This could also be tested in the on-going research."
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A new report, based on data from the Framingham Heart Study (FHS), suggests that insulin resistance, a predictor of cardiovascular risk and the development of diabetes, may be modulated with even modest levels of physical activity.

The findings are published in the journal Clinical Obesity.

Insulin is a hormone produced in the pancreas that regulates the body's use of energy molecules including carbohydrates, fats and protein. Insulin resistance -- or conversely, sensitivity -- refers to the body's response to insulin. Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a condition of high insulin resistance which results in elevated levels of sugar in the blood due to ineffective response to normal insulin signaling.

Physical activity is associated with decreasing one's risk of developing diseases such as obesity and diabetes. In addition, decreased levels of activity are associated with an increase in biomarkers that can contribute to the development of insulin resistance.

Researchers at the Boston University School of Medicine (BUSM) sought to examine the relationship of physical activity and inactivity, to insulin resistance and biomarkers of inflammation. Participants were asked to wear accelerometers during the day to estimate the amount of physical activity, as well as time spent being less active ("sedentary time"). These measurements were then compared to chemical markers of insulin resistance, inflammation and metabolism found in blood.

They found that increased levels of physical activity (below what is required for weight loss) were associated with decreased insulin resistance as well as biomarkers of inflammation. The researchers also demonstrated that among individuals who spent more time sedentary, their blood contained higher levels of leptin, a chemical produced in fatty tissue that causes satiety, and FABP4 (fatty acid binding protein 4), a protein involved in the transport of fat molecules.

Although not completely understood, the authors concluded that physical activity and sedentary time may operate by different pathways to modulate disease risk. "These results may help us create specific exercise recommendations for the prevention or treatment of diseases like type 2 diabetes mellitus," explained corresponding author BUSM post-doctoral fellow Nicole Spartano, PhD.
But whenever a brand tries to shave a few percentages off the size of their product, consumers immediately notice and complain. The latest revolt occurred earlier when Mondelez reduced the size of its Toblerone chocolate bars in the UK by increasing the gap between its triangular chunks.

Why are people so mad at downsizing? Certainly, downsizing is a loss, but so is a price increase. And consumers are generally indifferent to all the supersizing that has been happening over the past three decades. The same 16 ounce Coke, which now seems so normal were, not so long ago, advertised as a "big size, serving 3". In fact, for its first 50 years, the standard measure Coca Cola bottle was 6.5 fluid ounces. Now single servings of Coke at American fast food restaurants regularly reach up to 32 ounces.

In an article published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: General, titled "The Accuracy of Less: Natural Bounds Explain Why Quantity Decreases Are Estimated More Accurately Than Quantity Increases," INSEAD Professor of Marketing, Pierre Chandon and Nailya Ordabayeva, Assistant Professor of Marketing at Boston College, find that people are much better at accurately judging decreasing portions than increasing ones, which is why there are such public outcries when companies try to shrink portions.

Across five studies involving 4,842 size judgments, they show that people, including experts such as professional chefs from the Paul Bocuse Institute, estimate quantity decreases more accurately than quantity increases. On average, they found that a portion that is doubled in size is judged to be only 72% larger than the original size, a strong underestimation, whereas one that is halved appears to be 53% of the original size, which is a very good approximation.

"Our brain is very bad at judging quantity increases, but surprisingly accurate at judging quantity decreases", said Chandon, who is also the The L'Oreal Chaired Professor of Marketing, Innovation and Creativity at INSEAD and Director of the INSEAD Sorbonne University Behavioral Lab. "Supersizing food portions is a lose-lose proposition: Consumers don't realize how much food is available, they refuse to pay a fair price for it, and end up eating more than realize. Companies should consider downsizing back to what used to be a regular portion size not so long ago. But they need to downsize smartly, leveraging what we know about size perceptions, otherwise consumers will reject it".

In one experiment, they asked 510 participants to take a look at five different portions of chocolate candies in plastic cups. The cups had 37, 74, 148, 296, and 592 candies respectively. In the "supersizing" condition, participants were told the count of the smallest portion (37) and were then asked to estimate the number of chocolate candies in the other four portions. The average estimates were 57, 102, 184, and 296. In other words, people missed exactly half the candies in the largest cup. People in the downsizing group were told the count of the largest portion (592) and were asked to estimate the number of candies in the other cups. Their average estimate was 346, 163, 74, and 36. They only missed the size of the smallest cup by one candy.

Chandon and Ordabayeva hypothesized that this asymmetry exists because there is a natural lower bound or a zero point when portion sizes decrease. In other words, a decreasing portion cannot go below zero. When portions increase, however, they can theoretically grow to infinity. Without an upper bound, it is hard for people to estimate how big something has become.

To test their hypothesis, they provided an upper bound to some of the participants, telling them that the plastic container could hold a maximum of 629 chocolate candies. In this case, participants in the supersizing condition judged the largest container to hold 528 M&Ms, much closer to the actual numbers. When an upper bound was available, judgments of size increases were no longer less accurate than judgments of size decreases.

As another test, Chandon and Ordabayeva asked people to estimate the change in size between portions rather than the size of the portions themselves. They did this because size ratios--for example, how many times larger or how many times smaller one portion is compared to another--do not have an upper bound, regardless of whether size increases or decreases. They found that estimating size ratios reduced the asymmetry between increases and decreases and made consumers less averse to size decreases.

"Our study suggests a number of strategies that can improve consumer decisions in the face of quantity increases vs. decreases," said Ordabayeva. "This improved visual accuracy, in effect, makes people less averse to, and more receptive towards, healthier downsized portions and packages," she added.
While many African immigrants make efforts to retain their culture, when it comes to sex education, acculturation can occur three times faster than average.

Where a shift in cultural behaviors and beliefs typically takes three generations, new research has found that among educated Sub-Saharan African immigrant mothers, cultural views regarding sex are rarely passed down to their children, indicating change after a single generation.

The study, "Exploring the Experience of African Immigrant Mothers Providing Reproductive Health Education to Daughters Aged 10-14 Years," was led by Kafuli Agbemenu, PhD, assistant professor in the University at Buffalo School of Nursing, and published recently in the Journal of Transcultural Nursing.

The research sought to gather what each mother's culture taught about sex, and discover how much of the information the mothers planned to share with their teenage daughters.

The topic stems from an encounter Agbemenu had at 14 years old with a pregnant teenager while shadowing nurses at a hospital in Kenya. The girl, who was 17 years old, believed that she wouldn't be impregnated if she only had sex once.

"Typically, you get information about sex education from your family, friends and the media, so I started to wonder which part of the system failed her," says Agbemenu. "Mothers are the gatekeepers to information. We wanted to look at what they think about the issue and how they talk about abstinence and contraceptives."

The African immigrant population in the United States is a fast-growing yet under-researched community, making up 4 percent of the foreign-born population. The cultural influences, traditions and beliefs of African immigrants are distinctly different than those of native African-Americans. Examining how cultural differences impact their attitudes toward reproductive health education is critical to public health services, says Agbemenu.

The researchers surveyed 20 African immigrant mothers in Pittsburgh about the information they shared with their daughters regarding menstruation, sexual intercourse, pregnancy, and HIV and AIDS.

The results found that most of the mothers' sex education stemmed from religious and moral teachings, with little factual information. For many, the subject of sex is taboo in their native country and is not taught in schools. A history of AIDS denialism and pushback against condom use by religious leaders have also negatively affected several nations.

The lack of information leads to young adults receiving conflicting or inaccurate information about sex, and to the prevalence of myths and scare tactics to prevent promiscuity, such as the notion that touching a man could cause a girl to become pregnant, the study found.

Inadequate sex education is one of several factors that underscore the growing HIV and AIDS pandemic faced by Africa. Out of the 34 million HIV-positive people in the world, more than 70 percent live in Sub-Saharan Africa, including more than 90 percent of HIV-positive children, according to statistics from the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV and AIDS.

Although the mothers felt that 10 to 14 years of age was too young for their daughters to receive information about reproductive health, most of them displayed no desire to share the teachings, myths and scare tactics that they were taught, and instead sought to provide more factual information.

Agbemenu attributes this reluctance to education and cultural influence. Of the surveyed mothers, the majority received at least some college education, and several worked in health care. The only mother who desired to share the myths she learned with her daughter was also the least educated. Many of the mothers were also struck by how liberal U.S. society is toward sexuality and how accepting American culture is of adolescent relationships.

The researchers aim to use the results to help design more culturally appropriate comprehensive sex education programs for African immigrant mothers and their daughters, says Agbemenu.

Future research will continue to study the amount of factual information regarding sex that the mothers know and expand the reach of the survey by conducting it in languages other than English.
A new way of looking at how pollutants ride through the atmosphere has quadrupled the estimate of global lung cancer risk from a pollutant caused by combustion, to a level that is now double the allowable limit recommended by the World Health Organization.

The findings, published this week in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences Early Edition online, showed that tiny floating particles can grow semi-solid around pollutants, allowing them to last longer and travel much farther than what previous global climate models predicted.

Scientists said the new estimates more closely match actual measurements of the pollutants from more than 300 urban and rural settings.

The study was done by scientists at Oregon State University, the Department of Energy's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, or PNNL, and Peking University. The research was primarily supported by PNNL.

"We developed and implemented new modeling approaches based on laboratory measurements to include shielding of toxics by organic aerosols, in a global climate model that resulted in large improvements of model predictions," said PNNL climate scientist and lead author Manish Shrivastava.

"This work brings together theory, lab experiments and field observations to show how viscous organic aerosols can largely elevate global human exposure to toxic particles, by shielding them from chemical degradation in the atmosphere."

Pollutants from fossil fuel burning, forest fires and biofuel consumption include air-polluting chemicals known as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, or PAHs. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency has identified several PAHs as cancer-causing agents.

But PAHs have been difficult to represent in past climate models. Simulations of their degradation process fail to match the amount of PAH that is actually measured in the environment.

To look more closely at how far PAHs can travel while riding shielded on a viscous aerosol, the researchers compared the new model's numbers to PAH concentrations actually measured by Oregon State University scientists at the top of Mount Bachelor in the central Oregon Cascade Range.

"Our team found that the predictions with the new shielded models of PAHs came in at concentrations similar to what we measured on the mountain," said Staci Simonich, a toxicologist and chemist in the College of Agricultural Sciences and College of Science at OSU, and international expert on the transport of PAHs.

"The level of PAHs we measured on Mount Bachelor was four times higher than previous models had predicted, and there's evidence the aerosols came all the way from the other side of the Pacific Ocean."

These tiny airborne particles form clouds, cause precipitation and reduce air quality, yet they are the most poorly understood aspect of the climate system.

A smidge of soot at their core, aerosols are tiny balls of gases, pollutants, and other molecules that coalesce around the core. Many of the molecules that coat the core are what's known as "organics." They arise from living matter such as vegetation -- leaves and branches, for example, or even the molecule responsible for the pine smell that wafts from forests.

Other molecules such as pollutant PAHs also stick to the aerosol. Researchers long thought that PAHs could move freely within the organic coating of an aerosol. This ease of movement allowed the PAH to travel to the surface where ozone -- a common chemical in the atmosphere -- can break it down.

But scientists' understanding of aerosols has changed in the last five years or so.

Recent experiments led by PNNL coauthor Alla Zelenyuk show that, depending on the conditions, the aerosol coatings can actually be quite viscous. If the atmosphere is cool and dry, the coating can become as viscous as tar, trapping PAHs and other chemicals. By preventing their movement, the viscous coating shields the PAHs from degradation.

Researchers developed a new way of representing PAHs in a global climate model, and ran it to simulate PAH concentrations from 2008 to 2010. They examined one of the most carcinogenic PAHs in particular, called BaP. Simulations were compared to data from 69 rural sites and 294 urban sites worldwide, and showed that predictions from shielded PAHs were far more accurate than previous, unshielded ones.

Scientists also analyzed how far the protected PAHs could travel, using both old and new models. In all cases, the shielded PAHs traveled across oceans and continents, whereas in the previous version they barely moved from their country of origin.

To look at the impact globe-trotting PAHs might have on human health, Shrivastava combined a global climate model, running either the shielded PAH scenario or the previous unshielded one, with a lifetime cancer risk assessment model developed by coauthors Huizhong Shen and Shu Tao, both then at Peking University.

Globally, the previous model predicted half a cancer death out of every 100,000 people, which is half the limit outlined by the World Health Organization (WHO) for PAH exposure. But using the new model, which showed that shielded PAHs actually travel great distances, the global risk was four times that, or two cancer deaths per 100,000 people, which exceeds WHO standards.

The WHO standards were not exceeded everywhere. It was higher in China and India and lower in the United States and Western Europe. The extent of shielding was also much lower over the tropics compared to the mid- and high-latitudes. As the aerosols traversed the warm and humid tropics, ozone could get access to the PAHs and oxidize them.

"We don't know what implications more PAH oxidation products over the tropics have for future human or environmental health risk assessments," said Shrivastava. "We need to better understand how the shielding of PAHs varies with the complexity of aerosol composition, atmospheric chemical aging of aerosols, temperature and relative humidity. I was initially surprised to see so much oxidation over the tropics."
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced today that its laboratory analysis found inconsistent amounts of belladonna, a toxic substance, in certain homeopathic teething tablets, sometimes far exceeding the amount claimed on the label. The agency is warning consumers that homeopathic teething tablets containing belladonna pose an unnecessary risk to infants and children and urges consumers not to use these products.

In light of these findings, the FDA contacted Standard Homeopathic Company in Los Angeles, the manufacturer of Hyland's homeopathic teething products, regarding a recall of its homeopathic teething tablet products labeled as containing belladonna, in order to protect consumers from inconsistent levels of belladonna. At this time, the company has not agreed to conduct a recall. The FDA recommends that consumers stop using these products marketed by Hyland's immediately and dispose of any in their possession. In November 2016, Raritan Pharmaceuticals (East Brunswick, New Jersey) recalled three belladonna-containing homeopathic products, two of which were marketed by CVS.

"The body's response to belladonna in children under two years of age is unpredictable and puts them at unnecessary risk," said Janet Woodcock, M.D., director of the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. "We recommend that parents and caregivers not give these homeopathic teething tablets to children and seek advice from their health care professional for safe alternatives."

Homeopathic teething products have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA for safety or effectiveness. The agency is unaware of any proven health benefit of the products, which are labeled to relieve teething symptoms in children. In September 2016, the FDA warned against the use of these products after receiving adverse event reports.

Consumers should seek medical care immediately if their child experiences seizures, difficulty breathing, lethargy, excessive sleepiness, muscle weakness, skin flushing, constipation, difficulty urinating, or agitation after using homeopathic teething products.
More support from friends, family and school was linked to less risk-taking among adolescents and young adults with food allergies, according to a study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice.

Fatal food-induced allergic reactions are most common in adolescents and young adults, with nearly 70 percent of food allergy-related deaths occurring in this age group.

"We know that many adolescents and young adults with food allergies regularly engage in behaviors that increase their risk of a life-threatening reaction, such as eating in restaurants without asking about allergenic ingredients," said senior author Ruchi Gupta, MD, MPH, pediatrician and researcher at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago and Associate Professor of Pediatrics and Medicine at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. "Our findings underscore that support is critical for these young people. Our results also suggest that school-level policies may promote reduced risk-taking behavior in teens with food allergies."

In the study, students who had an individualized accommodation plan at school, known as a "504" plan, were significantly less likely to take risks with their food allergies.

"While school-based 504 accommodation plans are federally mandated, many parents of children with food allergies are unaware that they are an option," said Gupta. "More efforts to educate students with food allergies and their families about the possible benefits of 504 plans may be warranted."

Teacher awareness of the student's food allergies also was associated with less risky behaviors.

The study surveyed 200 adolescents and young adults with food allergies, ages 14-22 years. Other factors linked to less risk-taking included having a peanut allergy, supportive female friends and an overprotective mother. Also, participants who reported that their food allergy helped them eat healthier were less likely to engage in risky behaviors.

"It was encouraging to find that despite considerable difficulties, adolescents and young adults also perceive positive aspects of living with food allergy, such as being more responsible and better advocates for themselves and others, as well as eating healthier," said Gupta.
Young and middle-aged patients with colon cancer are nearly two to eight times more likely to receive postoperative chemotherapy than older patients, yet there seems to be no added survival benefits for these patients, according to a study published today in JAMA Surgery by researchers at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USU).

Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. There were more than 49,000 deaths in 2016, and more than 134,000 new cases are expected this year. While incidence and mortality rates among adults age 50 and older have decreased recently in the U.S., the same trend hasn't been observed for patients 20 to 49. Treatment options remain to be defined for patients with young-onset colon cancer and their effects on prognosis are unclear.

Dr. Kangmin Zhu, professor in USU's Department of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics, was corresponding author on the study, "Chemotherapy Use and Survival among Young and Middle-Aged Patients with Colon Cancer." He and his colleagues from the National Cancer Institute, and the John P. Murtha Cancer Center at USU (Department of Surgery) and the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, examined whether there were age differences in receiving chemotherapy and whether there were matched survival gains with the receipt of postoperative chemotherapy among colon cancer patients. They analyzed data from the Department of Defense's Central Cancer Registry and Military Health System medical claims databases. There were 3,143 patients, ages 18 to 75, with histologically confirmed primary colon cancer diagnosed between 1998 and 2007.

Of these patients, 59 percent were men. Young (18-49 years) and middle-aged (50-64 years) patients were two to eight times more likely to receive postoperative systemic chemotherapy, compared with older patients (65-75 years), regardless of tumor stage at diagnosis. Young and middle-aged adults were 2.5 times more likely to receive multi-agent chemotherapy regimens. Also, while young and middle-aged adults who only underwent surgery had better survival compared with older patients, there were no significant differences in survival between young/middle-aged and older patients who received surgery plus postoperative systemic chemotherapy.

"Most of the young patients received post-operative systemic chemotherapy, including multi-agent regimens, not currently recommended for most patients with early-stage colon cancer. Our findings suggest young and middle-aged adults with colon cancer may be over-treated," Zhu said.

Source: https://www.usuhs.edu/
With an aim to push green technology in mass public transportation vehicles in India, Tata Motors has launched a fully electric bus and a hybrid one, with indicative prices ranging between Rs 1.6 crore and Rs 2 crore.



The company, which is a leader in the commercial vehicles space in the country with a market share of around 45 percent, also showcased its LNG-powered bus. Besides, it also unveiled a bus with fuel cell technology and electric versions of its light commercial vehicles SuperAce, Magic and Magic Iris.



"At Tata Motors our aim is to not only comply with emerging regulations of clean and green emissions but also be ahead of the requirements," Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles Executive Director Ravindra Pisharody said. The biggest opportunity for such buses are in metros for public transportation, he added.



The company has already received an order for 25 units of Starbus Hybrid buses from MMRDA Mumbai and deliveries would commence in the first quarter of 2017-18. It aims to start deliveries of fully electric buses in next quarter after getting clarity on subsidies for the segment, Pisharody said.



"We have been consistently developing and manufacturing products that can contribute to CO2 reductions across all road transport segments and with early investments in new technologies, we are geared up to further strengthen our market leadership," Pisharody said.



The company plans to play an active role in mass public transportation with the new range of future ready buses, he added. The homegrown auto major also displayed an articulated bus. When asked about the export plans, Pisharody said the company is ready if orders come in from overseas markets. Commenting on market share in bus segment in the domestic market, he said: "Traditionally we had a market share of 30-35 percent but due to large orders received it would jump to over 45 per cent at the end of this fiscal."



Tata Motors currently designs, develops and manufactures buses in Pune, Dharwad, Pantnagar and Lucknow. It also has a joint venture with Marcopolo of Brazil for fully built bus solutions. It also has a partnership with ACGL of Goa for bus bodies.
German prosecutors are investigating former Volkswagen chief executive Martin Winterkorn on suspicion of fraud, looking into when he first knew that the carmaker was rigging diesel emissions tests.



It is the second investigation into Winterkorn's role in the scandal by prosecutors in the German town of Braunschweig near Volkswagen's (VW) Wolfsburg headquarters. The former CEO is already being investigated over possible market manipulation.



VW's acknowledgement in September 2015 that it had used software to reduce emissions levels when cars were being tested in the United States wiped billions of euros from its market value, forced Winterkorn's resignation and led to investigations and lawsuits around the world.



VW has said its executive board did not learn of the software violations until late August 2015 and formally reported the cheating to U.S. authorities in early September that year.



Appearing before German lawmakers last week Winterkorn refused to say when he first learned about systematic exhaust emissions cheating but said it was no earlier than VW has officially admitted.



"For now, Dr. Winterkorn is sticking with the statement he made before a German parliamentary committee of inquiry (into the scandal) on Jan. 19," Felix Doerr, a Frankfurt-based lawyer for Winterkorn, said in an emailed statement.



Braunschweig prosecutors said on Friday they had searched 28 homes and offices in connection with their investigation this week. The number of people accused in connection with the emissions scandal had risen to 37 from 21, including Winterkorn.



"Sufficient indications have resulted from the investigation, particularly the questioning of witnesses and suspects as well as the analysis of seized data, that the accused (Winterkorn) may have known about the manipulating software and its effects sooner than he has said publicly," they said in a statement.



It will take weeks to sift through everything found in this week's raids, prosecutors said.



VW pledged full cooperation with prosecutors but declined further comment.



The latest investigation will add to the carmaker's legal headaches and encourage investors seeking 8.8 billion euros ($9.4 billion) in damage claims in Germany for the collapse of VW's share price after the scandal broke.



"Lawyers looking to sue VW for market manipulation would certainly have more ammunition, in our view, if the former CEO was found guilty of fraud," said London-based Evercore ISI analyst Arndt Ellinghorst who has a "Buy" recommendation on the stock.



Winterkorn, 69, and the 36 other people are under investigation on suspicion of fraud and violating competition law, prosecutors said.



The separate market manipulation probe announced last June centred on whether VW should have disclosed the possible financial damage caused by the manipulation prior to Sept. 22, 2015, when it admitted to its actions.



Winterkorn denied any wrongdoing when he quit on Sept. 23, 2015, but said he was clearing the way for a fresh start at VW with his resignation.



Winterkorn ran VW for more than eight years and oversaw a doubling in sales and an almost tripling in profit.



Europe's largest automaker took a major step this month towards ending its biggest-ever corporate crisis when it agreed to plead guilty in a $4.3 billion deal with the U.S. Justice Department.



In total, VW has now agreed to spend up to $22 billion in the United States to address claims from owners, environmental regulators, U.S. states and dealers.
Mumbai: Nobel laureate Amartya Sen on Saturday termed note ban as an unguided "missile" fired "unilaterally" by the government without adhering to the democratic conventions.



"Every now and then we get missiles fired by the government unilaterally. Demonetisation, one fine morning, is of course just such a missile. There are reports coming in of hardships and suffering though it is not quite clear where the missile has landed," Sen said.



The remark was made, during a talk titled 'Healthcare for all: Why and how', while comparing decision-making in a democratic country like India and the Communist China.



The Bharat Ratna awardee said decisions get taken in China based on the vision of a small group of people, while in a democracy like ours, things move only when there is a public demand for it.



"Our political decisions, however, in contrast have to involve the public," he said, comparing our situation with China and going on to mention the demonetisation exercise as an aberration from such a convention.



Drawing attention to the critical challenges faced by the healthcare sector, the professor of economics and philosophy at Harvard said, "unilateral thoughts" like demonetisation cannot be of help.



"Firing unilateral thoughts are not the way to reform healthcare in the kind of democracy that is India," Sen said.



It can be noted that the US-based Sen has been critical of the demonetisation announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 8.



Among other things, he has described it as a "despotic action" which was taken in a hurry.



Sen also made a reference to the ideas of Buddha and made a specific mention of his work in reviving the famed University at Nalanda.



It can be noted that Sen's name was excluded after the Modi government reconstituted the board of the Nalanda University in November 2015. Sen was the founding chancellor of the varsity.



Sen said he was "deeply influenced" by Buddha's ideas including those on education, and said he was hoping to revive Nalanda from his childhood days.



Sen also spoke about the need to increase Budgetary allocation to healthcare as a share of GDP, saying the present paltry allocation above 1 per cent is very low.



Ruing that healthcare gets scant attention from the media, he cited an empirical analysis of editorial space to the critical subject done by him and developmental economist Jean Dreze to drive home his point.



None of the major political parties made any mention to healthcare in the 2014 hustings as well, Sen pointed out and regretted the lack of public discussion on the subject.



Drawing parallels with the metaphor of snake and ladder game, Sen said healthcare is yet to benefit from the good delivered by economic growth.



He said during the past 25 years, we have grown on the 'ladder' of economic development but the lack of healthcare facilities has acted like the 'snake'.



The economist also said there is an urgent need to stop exploitation of the poor and the ignorant patients by doctors. Additionally, the "moral hazard" created by subsidising private hospitals in schemes like the Rashtriya Suraksha Beema Yojana also has to stop, he said.



Healthcare should also include the social determinants of health, such as nutrition, sanitation and social equity, Sen said.
Kishan Singh owns a shop near the Attari Railway Station. Ask him how far Pakistan is from his shop and he points to the railway track: Is fatak taun ik kilometer agge Pakistan lag jaanda (Pakistan is just a kilometre after this railway crossing).But that border came even closer when Indian Army conducted surgical strikes in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK) to destroy terrorist launch pads.A day after the strikes, Home Minister Rajnath Singh called Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal and asked the state government to evacuate villages bordering Pakistan. India expected Pakistan to retaliate along the international border in Punjab or the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir. Singh, like hundreds of others in Attari sector, was forced to leave his home.What else can we do but evacuate when the government asks us to move? We packed up everything and left the village like everyone else. Luckily, I have relatives in Amritsar so we found a place to stay. Since I own a grocery shop, I took some of my stock so that we could live off it for a few days without bothering my relatives. We thought it would only last a few days but we ended up staying in Amritsar for a month and a half, he says.Suchitra Devi, his wife, chimes in. Everything was thrown out of gear. We had to shut our shop for a month. My husband and I could not find any work in Amritsar on such short notice so we had to live off our savings. Our children couldnt go to school and even our relatives were getting sick of us. It was a terrible time.The approach to the Pakistan border is lined with lush green fields on either side. Gurtej Singh, a farmer from Neshta village, is on his way to Attari when he stops to talk about the losses he suffered when his crops were left unattended for over a month.I was growing paddy, and as you know, it needs to be watered constantly. Suddenly, the government told us that we have to leave our homes. There was nobody to water the crops. Some of the younger farmers managed to sneak in at the middle of the night to water their crops or harvest them but I couldnt do so. I had to suffer huge losses because of that. Sarkar taun badla jaroor lavenge election de vich (We will surely extract our revenge from the government during this election), he says.Jarnail Singh, all of 85, says he has lived in Roranwala village even before Pakistan came into existence. He remembers family outings to Lahore as a child. Pehlan ikko hi mulk si (Earlier, all this was one country). I grew up with people who shifted to that side of the border after partition. They are just like us. I think the threat of Pakistan is always greatly exaggerated. Mainnu taan lagda eh Modi-Badal di saazish aa. (I think this is a conspiracy by Modi and Badal), he says.The octogenarian says that he will vote Congress this time. They are an old party that we can always trust. They will not do anything radical or rash. They will respect peoples livelihood. Captain Amarinder Singh is popular here as well. Most people in my generation are going to go with an experienced party that we can trust, Jarnail Singh says.The age divide in Attari is evident. While Jarnail Singh and others in his age group are solidly in the Congress camp, the younger lot sees a new alternative in AAP candidate Jaswinder Singh Jahangir. At 23, Jagtar Singh Jagga who works at a photocopy shop in Attaris main market, is a first-time voter. The AAP is on the rise here. I think they can win the Attari seat. All my friends will vote for them and I will too. Recently, Ghuggi (AAP Punjab convener Gurpreet Singh Waraich) came to Attari to address a meeting. Thousands of people turned up. I think that meeting turned the tide in their favor, he says.Jagga is proud of the fact that while many boys his age have fallen into the drug trap, he has managed to stay clean. He adds, I like the AAP slogan  Na chitte nu na daaru nu, vote payenge jhaadu nu (Neither for drugs nor for alcohol, we will vote for the broom).While there are reports of the drug menace claiming lives coming from all over Punjab, the border districts are perhaps the worst hit. An Attari resident, who does not wish to be identified, is skeptical of AAP and Congresss claims that they will end the drug trade in Punjab.I will still vote for one of these parties but I dont think they can end the drug trade here. They need to understand that Attaris economy is based on the drug trade. It doesnt matter if there are deaths in every family. Those who earn big bucks from the drug trade will not stop. People in Attari can literally walk into Pakistan. Some people on the other side even manage to dig tunnels and get into India. Wagah and Attari are adjoining villages on either side. It is virtually impossible to stop this trade, he says.As he sits by a tea shop in Attari and looks at a potholed road filled with rain water, Jagga, who has never been to Pakistan despite living so close to it, wonders out loud, Pakistan must be less developed than us, right?"
In such case anger is instinctive but it shouldn't be done outside purview of law: Rajasthan HM GC Kataria #SanjayLeelaBhansali #Padmavati pic.twitter.com/ataSGLZA7B  ANI (@ANI_news) 28 January 2017

Any action on personal level is not right. Probe will be initiated in the matter: Rajasthan HM GC Kataria #SanjayLeelaBhansali #Padmavati  ANI (@ANI_news) 28 January 2017

Rajasthan home minister GC Kataria on Saturday responded to reports of right wing activists allegedly assaulting director Sanjay Leela Bhansali and said that law should be respected."In such case, anger is instinctive but it shouldn't be done outside purview of law," he said.Bhansali and his crew were assaulted by members of the Rajput Karni Sena over alleged distortion of facts in the director's next venture, Deepika Padukone-starrer Padmavati. The incident reportedly occurred on Friday during the films shooting in Jaipur's Jaigarh Fort.Meanwhile, five people who were detained for the assault have been released, police said on Saturday.Trouble began when the film was being shot at the historic fort, eyewitnesses said. Activists of Rajput Karni Sena had gathered at the site and demanded stoppage of the shooting. They stormed the set and damaged some chairs and other objects, forcing stoppage of the shooting. After the incident, the director decided not to go ahead with the shooting in the state.The organization has defended its actions. "Under our nose, on land of Rajputs, they tampered with history of our ancestors," said Lokendra Singh Kalvi, founder, Rajput Karni Sena."They said same thing during Jodha-Akhbar. Things that didn't exist in history shouldn't be shown in films," he added."Kya Sanjay Leela Bhansali ki haisiyat hai Germany jaake Hitler ke khilaf film banane ki (Will Sanjay Leela Bhansali dare to go to Germany and make a film against Hitler)?" he asked.
Kannan, an accused in Kannur's Dhanraj murder case took over as a pracharak. Problems intensified in Kannur after he came there. When there was nothing happening, we ourselves created tension to keep the area active.

"They said that I don't have the right to live," he added.

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh worker from Kerala's Kannur district who had earlier alleged that the RSS tried to kill him to put the blame on the ruling CPI(M) said on Saturday that he was mentally and physically tortured.CPM district secretary P Jayarajan and state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan have demanded an investigation by special police team into the allegation.Balakrishnan visited Vishnu, the RSS worker, at the hospital and said that all allegations should be inquired.Vishnu alleged that the organisation he worked for 18 years wanted to kill him after making him write a suicide note blaming his death on Jayarajan. He alleged that for almost a month he was held captive and tortured mentally.I have been working for the RSS for the last 18 years. But during the elections, things changed in the RSS," he told CNN News18.Vishnu said that he along with a few others questioned the action but Kannan was not listening to what they had to say. He then informed the police about Kannan, which is why the RSS was angry with him."On December 15 some RSS workers I knew picked me up in a car. As soon as I got in I knew something was wrong but I was unable to get out. When I put my hand at the back of the vehicle I found a sword," he said."I was to a place in Thiruvananthapuram where there were many RSS leaders. They asked me whether I told to police about Kannan and I said yes," he added.He alleged that then he was beaten mercilessly for four to five hours. After that they did not let him sleep for 86 hours. "When I closed my eyes, they will pour water and beat me up," Vishnu said.He said that after a period of time he was asked to write a suicide note, saying that he was committing suicide due to the mental torture of Jayarajan."I know the mental state of our people, I utilized that to escape. They kept shifting me to several RSS offices and some houses during this whole time. Finally I escaped last Sunday when they left me alone in a RSS office.He told CNN News18 that at several places the BJP'S flags were destroyed by RSS- BJP workers themselves and the blame was put on the CPM. Apart from this, he said he said he along with other RSS workers attacked a Pentecostal church in Attingal and stopped vehicles which came with bulls during Ramzan."Some time back there was an attack on an Attingal Pentecost church, I was part of that. During Ramzan time when a vehicle came with bulls, we stopped the vehicle and picked fights with Popular frontI asked why we are doing this but got no response," he said."In many places we have damaged BJP flags ourselves and Put the blame on the CPI(M), then tension intensified in that area," he added.Vishnu also said that three of his friends who were with the RSS are missing and he is worried about their safety.However, RSS denies all these allegations. They say Vishnu was not even an active worker of the organisation and this is a plot hatched by the CPI(M).A special investigation team led by control room assistant commissioner will look into the allegations made by Vishnu. A case has been registered for kidnapping, torturing, unlawful assembly and rioting.
Panaji: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on a visit to Goa said development in the state happened under BJP rule.

In a veiled attack on AAP and Arvind Kejriwal on questioning the same election dates for Punjab and Goa, Modi said:  If you cant trust the umpire, why come to play.

Despite being a small state, Goa has inspired many big states, said Modi.

The Prime Minister urged the voters in the state to give BJP a comfortable majority for further development of the state.

Stay tuned for LIVE updates.

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New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Friday ordered status quo, thereby asking the Director General (Investigation) of the Competition Commission of India (CCI) not to proceed with further investigation into the alleged unfair predatory pricing by the cab hailing app operator Uber.



The bench of Justice Dipak Misra and Justice D.Y. Chandrachud issued notice to the CCI and directed the hearing of the matter on February 17.



The apex court's order of status quo has come on the appeal by Uber against the Competition Appellate Tribunal's (Compat) December 2016 direction to the CCI DG (Investigation) to investigate the allegations of Uber exploiting its market dominance and resorting to predatory pricing to the disadvantage of other cab operators in the market.



The Compat order came on an appeal by the radio taxi cab operator Meru, which had alleged that Uber was exploiting its dominant position in the market to eliminate others in the city travel business.



Meru had moved the Compat against February 2016 order of the CCI, which found no merit in its complaint.
This is a girl I believe in, now it's time 4 u to make her win.Tweet #MissUniverse #India to vote! India, it's time to stand united and vote pic.twitter.com/0sRFWo0E6z  Lara Dutta Bhupathi (@LaraDutta) January 27, 2017

: Former Miss Universe and actress Lara Dutta Bhupathi has come out in support of Roshmitha Harimurthy, who will be representing India at the upcoming 65th edition of Miss Universe pageant to be held in Manila.Lara, who was crowned as Miss Universe in 2000, says she believes in Harimurthy and urged her fans and followers to vote for her."This is a girl I believe in, now it's time for you to make her win. Tweet Miss Universe India to vote! India, it's time to stand united and vote," Lara posted on Twitter.Former Miss Universe and Bollywood actress Sushmita Sen will be on the judges' panel for the upcoming pageant, which will take place at the Mall of Asia Arena, Pasay in the Philippines' capital on January 30.
Kolkata: Talking on a topic that revolves around radicalism, fundamentalism and Islamophobia, the renowned poet and lyricist Javed Akhtar on Friday said that there is no divide between an average Hindu and an average Muslim in their way of thinking and living, and the whole idea of division on religious grounds is imposed upon the society.



"An average Muslim is just like an average Hindu. Every community would have its own sets of benign bisects that would enable them to like their own language, religion or community more than the others," Akhtar said at a session on Tata Steel Kolkata Literary Meet.



"But an average Muslim would never want to kill someone because he is from a different religion just like an average Hindu won't," he stressed.



He also pointed out the striking similarity between Hindu and Muslim community shows how they are actually one.



"Even marriage ceremonies have so many similarities, except for the concept of 'nikah' and 'fera'. The tragedy of Partition took place in Bengal and Punjab where everything about the inhabitants was so similar in spite of being from two different religions," he said.



Blaming the communalist powers for creating the divide, Akhtar said the common man survives and flourishes in harmony while the communalist survives in chaos.



"The communalists will always try to keep you in a war-zone. How can he be your well wisher?"



The poet also said radicalisation and Islamophobia are like a cycle where the rise of one helps in the increase of the other.



"The radicalisation and Islamophobia are parallel. They feed each other. The more the radicalisation, the more is Islamophobia. It is like a cycle. Also there isn't much difference between extremism and terrorism. Extremism is mental terrorism and terrorism is extremist in action," he said.



Talking about the rise in mistrust against the Muslims around the world, Akhtar said, "The tragedy is the minority community is identified by the worst person of the community while the majority community is identified by the best person among them".



"Would anyone in his wildest imagination, identify India's large Hindu community with Nathuram Godse. Obviously not. But the 17-18 crore Muslims in India are sometimes identified with Dawood Ibrahim. This is the example of radicalisation and stereotypes," he added.




Jodhpur: Bollywood actor Salman Khan, who appeared before a court here on Friday in connection with an 18-year-old blackbuck poaching case, pleaded "not guilty". The 51-year-old actor, to a question on religion posed by the court, said "I'm Hindu and Muslim both. I'm Bharatiya."



Salman and his Hum Saath-Saath Hain co-stars Saif Ali Khan, Neelam Kothari, Sonali Bendre and Tabu, pleaded "not guilty" in the case in a Jodhpur court.



The actors were present in the court to get their statements recorded before the court of Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) Dalpat Singh Rajpurohit.



During the course of hearing on Friday, Salman replied to as many as 65 questions posed by the court with regard to the allegations levelled by the prosecution witnesses.



Salman and the other actors also replied to a few general questions like names, father's name, age, residential address and religion.



To a question with regard to his religion, Salman, the son of popular screenwriter Salim Khan and Sushila Charak, said: "I'm Hindu and Muslim both. I'm Bharatiya". He subsequently said in English that "I'm an Indian".



Asked about the allegations levelled by the prosecution, the stars pleaded "not guilty".



Salman in his reply said that he couldn't have gone out for poaching due to security reasons, especially in the evenings or night.



"I used to be busy in the shooting in the and in the night I used to go to sleep as I was tired. In the night because of security reasons, I never used to go out. I deny all the charges. I have been falsely implicated," Salman told the court.



The next hearing in the blackbucks poaching case is slated to be held on February 15 in the court of Chief Judicial Magistrate here when Salman Khan's counsel is expected to produce defence witnesses to counter the prosecution.



"We will produce defence witnesses to counter the prosecution as all the allegations are untrue," Hastimal Saraswat, Salman's advocate, said.



"All charges against my client are false ," Saraswat said.



The CJM court had earlier asked the Bollywood celebrities to appear on January 25 to record statement, but the stars, including Salman and Saif, did not come on that day citing security reasons.



The court then postponed the matter for Friday.



The case against all cine stars is pending since 1998, but it could not come for hearing and remained stalled due to several appeals and revisions in the higher court in other connected matters.



Salman and Saif stayed in the court for around half an hour and an hour respectively. The actresses had to remain in court for around two hours.



Relatives of the film stars, including Salman's sister Alvira and his bodyguard Shera, were also present during the court proceedings.



All the five Bollywood actors are accused of poaching blackbucks on the midnight of October 1-2, 1998, during the shooting of Hum Saath-Saath Hain.



Two blackbucks, a protected animal under the Wildlife Protection Act, were killed in the outskirts of Kankani village near Jodhpur.



Salman was accused of carrying and using illegal arms too, but recently the CJM court acquitted him of the charges.




A day after Bollywood director Sanjay Leela Bhansali and his crew were allegedly assaulted by the members of fringe group Karni Seva on the sets of his next film Padmavati over "distortion of facts about the Queen", the ace film-maker has decided to suspend the shoot and return to Mumbai.



Jaipur police have confirmed the development that Mr. Bhansali has decided to stop filming in the area and he is heading back to Mumbai with his crew.



Meanwhile, in a press conference, leader of Karni Sena, Kalyan Singh Kalvi maintained that no permission was granted for the shooting.



"I am going to meet Sanjay Leela Bhansali. There was no applicable permission that was taken for the shoot".



Kalvi also said that Bhansali can't shoot any dream sequence and that until the film-maker won't give a written assurance the protests won't stop.



The protestors alleged that the film is distorting the historical facts surrounding the love scenes between Queen Padmini and Alauddin Khilji (played by actors Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh respectively) and that they would defend their Rajput lineage from public disgrace.



He further said that he's ready to forget the incident but will not forget the history.



"We have objected to high court and Ministry of Information & Broadcasting earlier too regarding the shooting. What was the need for air firing?", he added.



The incident, which took place during the shooting in Jaipur's Jaigarf Fort, ended up vandalising the Padmavati set.



Hours after the incident, many Bollywood celebrities including Priyanka Chopra, Karan Johar, Anurag Kashyap, Anushka Sharma, Rishi Kapoor, Farhan Akhtar, Omung Kumar, Sudhir Mishra, Alia Bhatt, Hrithik Roshan and Sonam Kapoor extended their support to the filmmaker calling the protest 'ridiculous' and 'appalling'.



Padmavati, a historical drama, is based on the story of Rani Padmini, who refused to submit to Emperor Alauddin Khilji when he arrived at the Chittorgarh fort with his army. The queen killed herself along with scores of other women before he stormed the fort. The film stars Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapoor in pivotal roles.



Reacting to the incident, Censor board chief Pahlaj Nihalani said, "It is the liability of every state to provide safety to film production or they shouldnt give permission. Before the release, no one knows the film's story but people still try to stall films".



The Film and TV Producers Guild has written a letter to Information and Broadcasting minister Venkiah Naidu condemning the attack.




Lucknow: BJP MP Yogi Adityanath on Saturday refuted claims that hus his outfit 'Hindu Yuva Vahini' will contest against the saffron party in few Assembly seats in the Uttar Pradesh, saying these reports are "fake".



"All these reports are fake. I am campaigning for my party," he said.



The Gorakhpur MP was is one of the star campaigners for BJP and was at the dice along with party chief Amit Shah and other leaders while the release of the manifesto for state Assembly elections next month.



Earlier, Hindu Yuva Vahini's state president had said that they have fielded candidates on six seats spread over three districts in the eastern region of the state.



The seats he mentioned are Padrauna, Khadda, Kasya (all in Kushinagar), Paniyara (Gorakhpur) and Siswa and Pharenda (Maharajganj).



Sunil also said that the outfit has been working on Hindutva agenda and it is the best opportunity for them to field candidates to set things right.



However, there had been a strong demand in BJP, especially in the stronghold of Adityanath, to declare him as the chief ministerial candidate in the polls.
New Delhi: Seeking to crystallise its poll pitch for the high stake battle in Uttar Pradesh, BJP it seems has decided to dust out its original blueprint seeking to target Akhilesh Yadav governments credentials on law and order front.



The 32-page party manifesto promises something for everyone, but President Amit Shahs speech at the release of the document indicates renewed attempt to fine tune a narrative gone awry over the last three months.



For the crucial first phase of polls in western UP, which has seen communal polarisation in the last three years, BJP has though attempted to rake up the Kairana migration issue and promised to close down mechanised abattoirs if elected to rule the state. Of these, the first one has been linked to the larger law and order problem in the state.



On development front, BJP has if anything sought to equal or even better promises made by the incumbent dispensation.



Six months back, when BJP set out to finalise its strategy for UP, it was apparent that party was planning to replicate the campaign model drafted for 2014 general polls.



The first and the basic fundamental of this strategy is to challenge the party in power by building a discourse around omissions and commissions of the government. The second phase of the campaign is knit around a larger alternative theme which in such cases is revolves around hope or any other derivative that promises seeking to radically alter the prevailing situation.



It was a time when Bulandshahr rapes had hit the headlines and police fought a pitched battle against a cult guru and his followers right in the heart of Mathura.



It was all going in the right direction when the Yadav family saga flared up in Lucknow. The protracted fight for control in SP was meticulously used by Akhilesh Yadav to create a Us vs Them divide within. And like every film script, for every hero there is a villain who is vanquished for the larger good.



This fast developing SP saga was so gripping that it overwhelmed the media space for a good four months, the denouement coming in the middle of January with EC allocating cycle symbol to Akhilesh.



In the meantime, BJP dabbled with two other issues, seeking to test waters in poll-bound states: surgical strikes across the border and the other on black money.



Within days of the armys assault on terror launch-pads, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar was in Agra and Lucknow and was being felicitated in public functions. This was followed by Prime Ministers visit to Lucknow on Dusserra. And speaking at the famous Aishbagh Ramlila, Modi delivered a powerful speech replete with symbolism on the victory over good over evil.



For a month or so it appeared as if this would be the thrust of BJP campaign in UP.



Then came November, and a much larger strike on black money was unveiled. It was said to be fight to weed out terror funds and unaccounted wealth.



Demonetisation was projected as the great leveler, a la Garibi Hatao moment aimed at pitchforking the BJP to other side of the class divide.



Three months later when the party releases its Lok Kalyan Sankalp Patr for UP great care has been taken to address any impact of the entire exercise on the rural economy. Small and marginal farmers have been promised loan waiver.



But the emphasis in the days ahead it seems would be on questioning SP governments credentials on law and order front. Especially womens security. And corruption.



As Amit Shah said on Akhilesh-Rahul Gandhi jugalbandi- ek ne desh ko loota aur doosre ne Pradesh ko.




Mumbai: A day after Shiv Sena decided to contest upcoming civic polls including Mumbai without tying up with BJP, state unit Congress president Ashok Chavan on Friday accused the saffron parties of being "partners in corruption".



He demanded that Sena president Uddhav Thackeray should pull out of NDA governments in Centre and Maharashtra instead of "boasting" that he had snapped ties with the BJP.



"Congress party's success in the upcoming polls is assured as Sena is not aligning with the BJP," the former chief minister said.



Taking a jibe at Thackeray for the comments made by him at yesterday's rally that he will not go with a begging bowl to anybody for an alliance, Chavan said, "this meant he (Thackeray) had gone with a begging bowl for an alliance earlier, which proves the Congress' charge that Sena was desperate for power."



He also hit out at the BJP over its transparency plank for elections.



"The most non-transparent government is talking about transparency. Just because their (Sena and BJP's) political arithmetic did not work out they have decided to go separate ways and (will) join hands again to enjoy power and indulge in corruption," Chavan alleged.



He said people know how the two saffron allies had fought with each other in Kalyan Dombivali Municipal Corporation (KDMC) elections while accusing each other of corruption and then joined hands after elections to rule the civic body.



"In Mumbai, the corrupt practices of the two allies who have ruled the civic body for 22 years will not be forgotten just because they are fighting elections separately," the MPCC chief said, adding there is a "tremendous resentment" among people against Sena and BJP.
Bengaluru: Former external affairs minister and veteran Congress leader SM Krishna said here on Saturday that he will quit the partys working committee and leave politics.



Krishna has served as Karnataka chief minister, Maharashtra governor and speaker of the Karnataka Assembly.



He has been credited with putting Bengaluru on the global map by steering the IT revolution in the state.



A lawyer by training, the 85-year-old leader has not given out any details on what prompted this sudden decision.



He is believed to have written to Congress president Sonia Gandhi, informing her that he would no longer be able to play an active role in politics.



Krishna refused to talk to the media, saying he has convened a press conference on Sunday and will speak at length there.



Party leaders in Karnataka were caught unawares with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah saying he does not have any inkling of this. Home minister G Parameshwara, who has enjoyed some camaraderie with Krishna and served in his cabinet said he is shocked beyond words and would react to this news only after speaking to other party colleagues.



Party men are also wondering if Krishna has been feeling a tad neglected, considering he hasn't been invited for any of the partys strategy meetings over issues such as demonetisation.



"I won't read too much into this. He has stopped being active for some time now and this is just a graceful exit that he has chosen. We all have a lot to learn from him," AICC spokesperson Dinesh Gundu Rao told News18.



Former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda said he had no information on the political retirement of Krishna.



Opposition leader in the Lok Sabha Mallikarjuna Kharge, who has worked closely with Krishna earlier, too said he was caught off guard by the news.


New Delhi: Taking umbrage to certain union ministries failing to seek its concurrence before taking decisions which can affect level playing field during Assembly polls in five states, the Election Commission has asked Cabinet Secretary P K Sinha to ensure that its guidelines on the model code are adhered to strictly.



The Commission specifically mentioned that the Finance Ministry, Niti Aayog and the Defence Ministry "failed" to refer important matters to it during the model code period.



The code came into force on January 4 and will last till polls are over.



"The Commission has noted that in certain cases, the ministries/departments took decisions, which have effect of disturbing level playing field of poll-bound states, without referring the matter to the Commission, particularly by Niti Aayog, Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Finance," the letter said.



Sources in the Commission said the reason behind the January 27 missive to the government was the decision of the Finance Ministry to fix Budget date without seeking its clearance when it was clear that as per the new date, the union budget will be presented when election process in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Manipur, Punjab and Goa will be on.



The poll panel had on January 20 pulled up Niti Aayog for holding special gram sabhas in the five poll-bound states without seeking its permission and said such events can only be organised after the elections are over.



On the same day, it had allowed the Defence Ministry to hold Combined Commanders' Conference in Uttarakhand with a rider that the Prime Minister, who inaugurated it, would not combine the event with an election rally in the poll-bound state.



Congress had complained to the Commission that BJP may use the event to influence former and serving defence personnel to gain an upper hand in the five poll-bound states.


: Prime Minister Narendra Modi took on the Aam Aadmi Partys insinuation that the Election Commission was hand-in-glove with the BJP in fixing poll dates for both Punjab and Goa on the same day when he quipped that if you dont trust the umpire, why come to play at all.Earlier, Kejriwal had told News18 in a detailed interview that the entire country knows the reason why elections in Punjab and Goa were being held on the same day.Address a poll rally in the Goan capital, Modi was scathing. The pickpockets of democracy in India do not favour anybody, he said.Modi said the opposition was vehement in its attack because he had vowed to eradicate corruption in the country. They are terrified and that's why they are attacking the government now," he said.Also Read: PMO Decides Poll Dates, Not EC; And Modi is Very Vindictive: Kejriwal The war of words between the EC and Delhi CM had heated up after the latter censured AAP chief for his statement, "Take money from others but vote for us," during a poll speech in Goa.Taking potshots at the opposition for criticising every move of the central government, Modi said the opposition was already preparing to criticise the Union budget. They are calling economists to comment on the upcoming budget, he said.Exhorting the Goa electorate to bring BJP to power with a comfortable majority, he said: "The people of India brought BJP to power with a comfortable majority in the Centre after thirty long years. People of Goa should also repeat the same.""In the past 10 years, Goa has seen over a dozen Chief Ministers and it has created problems for the state," he said while appealing to the people to vote for the Bharatiya Janata Party.The elections to the 40-member assembly will be held on February 4 and counting taken up on March 11.
Arvind Kejriwal is on a whirlwind tour of Punjab, a week before the state goes to polls. Of course, he believes there is a wave in the making, a la Delhi, and his Aam Aadmi Party will sweep Punjab on February 4. It is a peoples poll and the opponents are drugs and corruption, he says, adding that he is disappointed by the Election Commission censure. News18s Rupashree Nanda caught up with him during his Punjab tour. Excerpts from an exclusive interview:





News18: Rahul Gandhi has said that Captain Amarinder Singh is going to be Congress's CM candidate. Don't you think that coming clear on the CM candidate will energize the Congress, and the party will be able to consolidate under Amarinder?



AK: What was the need for the Congress that just before a few days before elections, it had to declare Captain Amarinder Singh as CM candidate? What has happened that Congress had to announce CM candidate? The reason is Congress is losing very badly so they thought that if the declare a CM candidate, their chances will improve. But people of Punjab have made up their mind. Forget about declaring Captain as CM candidate, if they declare him as PM candidate also, nothing will change. Even God cannot save the Congress. No one can save the Congress. Today, you saw at the road show Captain Saab is losing from his own constituency: What CM, which CM? (Kahan ke CM, kaise CM?) Captain is losing from Patiala and from Lambi, and losing badly. There will be no gains from this.





News18You are a political opponent and of course you will say that Captain is losing. But he is not expected to lose from Patiala



AK: No. The people are saying that. You were there, you spoke with people,





News18But Patiala is Captain's home turf



AK: It was, not any more. This time people want change, everybody wants change: change from Congress-Akali-BJP, change from the existing political system that has pushed Punjab into drugs.

Where was Captain when drugs were sold in Punjab? What was the Captain doing for ten years? People say, drugs began to be sold during his time. Three years ago when Bikram Majithia (Punjab minister and deputy chief minister Sukhbir Badals brother-in-law) was about to be arrested by the CBI, Captain approached Sonia Gandhi to save Majithia. And in return, they took back all the cases against the Captain. People are tired of this. Earlier they did not have a choice, now they do. A neat and clean and good option that has emerged from within the people. People will vote for them.





News18When Captain took on Parkash Singh Badal from Lambi, you said that it was a fixed match because he was trying to divide the anti-incumbency vote. Before that also you said it was a fixed match because he never took on big leaders. How can you have it both ways?



AK: No, no. I am saying if he had to fight really, he should have left Patiala. Bhagwant Mann is fighting from one seat, Jarnail Singh is contesting from one seat but Captain is fighting from Patiala and Lambi also. One newspaper asked him why was he fighting from two seats. He said he is fighting from Patiala to win. So from Lambi he is not fighting to win. He is fighting to make Prakash Singh Badal win. This is something that he has admitted.





News18By declaring Amarinder Singh as CM candidate, has Congress not stolen one of your weapons? Because you always said that Sidhu will be the Congress's CM candidate, that he was promised the chair. So that question has been settled?



AK: Let them steal all our weapons, even then Congress is not going to win. People have made up their minds. People want to move away from this old politics. People want to build a new Punjab, a Punjab of their hopes and dreams. Congress/BJP/Akali Dal are all the same ...same characters, same friendships, they get married amongst each other, they have relationship with each other. Majithia is Captain's nephew. People want to put an end to their politics.





News18What about AAP? The AAP has not declared a CM face in Punjab? Why is it that you have not declared a CM face here when you have done that in Goa?



AK: That will be decided after the elections. All the MLAs will sit together and decide.





News18What is the reason that you have not decided?



AK: Different states have different strategies.





News18We hear four names in contention for chief ministership within AAP: Jarnail Singh, Bhagwant Mann, H S Phoolka and Himmat Singh Shergill



AK: MLAs will decide.





News18But isnt it a drawback that seems to have put AAP on backfoot? Arent you taking a political risk by not declaring a CM face?



AK: The people are not asking us who will be the CM, only the media is interested, people are happy. We have worked in Delhi with honesty. They want that in Punjab also.





News18In all your speeches you have said that you will stand guarantee for all the manifesto promises that AAP has made. Does this not point to a leadership vacuum in Punjab?



AK: People have faith in me. People believe, "Kejriwal kattar imaandar hai, usko duniya ki koi bhi taakat khareed nahi sakti (Kejriwal is staunchly honest, no power can buy him off). And there is a second factor. People believe, Jo woh kehta hai, woh karta hai, apni baat as mukar nahi jaata, jhoot nahi bolta hai (He walks the talk, he doesnt lie). That is why I am the guarantor of our manifesto promises.





News18Why not project one strong face in Punjab?



AK: The party feels it should be decided after the elections. Let the MLAs decide.





News18You have locked horns with the Election Commission. You have again tweeted reacting to EC restraining you from making the statement exhorting voters to accept bribes from anyone but vote only for AAP. Arent you attacking an institution ?



AK: I am not attacking any institution. I am reminding them about their responsibility. Everyone in Punjab will acknowledge that money is being distributed. Where is the EC? Is the EC sleeping? Can't they see that money is being distributed? EC is not telling them anything. I am saying whoever comes to distribute the money, take the money from them but vote for us. What is the wrong thing I have said? EC is forbidding me to say that. Does the EC want me to say, Give your vote to whoever gives you money?. EC has joined hands with these parties. Let EC point out what is wrong in what I have said. I have said, "Paise donon partiyon se lena lekin vote hamein dena". We did that in Delhi. People took money from BJP, Congress but voted for us. If the same thing happens in one or two more elections, parties will stop distributing money. They will feel they are losing their money.



I am doing the work of the EC by finishing off bribery. But by stopping me, EC is encouraging bribery. EC has threatened me: "If you repeat this we will withdraw your symbol. A van belonging to Akali Dal was caught, EC does not withdraw their symbol... money and liquor is being distributed but their symbols are not withdrawn. And they will withdraw our symbols? EC should do its duty. The way EC is behaving ... they declared elections on the 5th...why? Because Modiji has to speak on the 3rd! So now you will declare elections according to Modiji? Why are elections in Punjab and Goa held on the same day? The entire country knows the reason. Is the EC independent now? EC belongs to the people of this country not to two-three people. If those sitting in that chair will not respect that, people of this country will raise their voice.







News18But you are an elected chief minister. You are expected to be acting according to certain norms?



AK: Tell me what norms have I violated. I have not indulged in any violence. It is my duty to raise my voice against wrong practices within the boundaries of the Constitution. If any wrong is being done, I will raise my voice.







News18They expect that you should show more respect



AK:Respect has to be earned. If your deeds don't command respect, how will we respect? When TN Seshan was there, when JM Lyngdoh was there, everyone respected them. Now no one respects the EC.







News18You are casting very strong aspersions against the EC



AK: I have been saying this for the past ten days. This is not the first time. Don't you see that the date announcement was not correct? They did the same thing in Delhi also. On 10th January, Modiji had to address a rally in Ramlila Maidan And then EC declared dates... so now the Election Commission will decide poll dates according to the schedule of Modiji's speeches? Is this the independence of the Election Commission? That means dates are being decided by PMO, not the EC.







News18Punjab deputy CM Sukhbir Badal has targeted you on two counts: by saying that you are from outside and that you have links with extremists.



AK: Sukhbir Badal says all the NRIs who are coming into the state (to campaign for AAP) all of them are extremists. How can that be? When planeloads of NRIs had arrived, he said that they are bringing extremists. Are all Punjabi NRIs extremists? All of them left Punjab due to compulsions, because Badals and Captain together had destroyed Punjab so much that they did not have an option. Now they are coming back to help Punjab progress and they are being called extremists? This is shameful!







News18Captain Amarinder Singh has called you a sneaky little fellow, a slimy little fellow...



AK:Let him say that. Doesnt affect me, one should respect elders even if they abuse you (Buzurg hain toh gaali dete hai toh namashkar, koi baat nahi.)







News18There are reports that the Hindu vote is consolidating under Congress. Does that worry you?



AK: No, that is not true. I don't know who has told you that Congress is consolidating Media gives more space to the Congress, media gives us very little space. Amongst the people, there is no Congress.





News18You are absolutely sure that there is no threat for AAP from the Congress in Punjab?



AK: Please understand this: Our fight is not against the Congress, our fight is that of the people against corruption and drugs. People are seeing a new ray of hope in AAP. Understand one thing: in Punjab, this election has gone out of the hands of parties and politicians, whether it be Kejriwal, Captain or the Badals or Bhagwant Mann. This election is being fought by the people (yeh kejriwal ki pahunch se, Captain ki pahunch se, Badalon ki pahunch se, Bhagwant Mann ki pahunch se bahar hai, yeh chunav ab janta ladh rahi hai).







News18Your party has had a bumpy ride in Punjab, isn't it? You had to suspend two MPs, you had to suspend Succha Singh Chhotepur. Looking back, do you think it had a negative impact on people? The rise became tougher for you, to rebuild the image and establish hope in the minds of people?



AK: There are ups and downs.







News18Would you have wanted things to be different?



AK: Maybe some things could have been done differently. I cannot comment on individual incidents now.







News18In case there is a hung assembly, would you support or take the support of any party?



AK: Which report is saying this?







News18There are some reports. Some opinion polls



AK:Which report?











News18I cannot remember exactly which report



AK: Well, they are false. You also know.







News18There seems to be a wave for AAP in the Malwa region. But what about Majha?



AK: It is not a wave for AAP... it is a wave for hope. Please try and understand that. That hope is very strong. Like you asked, can Congress consolidate in one week? Is the Congress hope? No. This is an election of hope. People have made up their minds. It cannot be reversed now. In such an election of hope (umeed ki chunav) people give decisive verdicts: either for Congress or for AAP.





News18But just in case there is a hung assembly?



AK: It is a theoretical question



News18So you definitely don't want to commit now?



AK:No, no. I am committing. There will be no understanding with any party. But I am saying the question is theoretical. There is no question of any gathbandhan (alliance).





News18What will be the next step for your party?



AK:People will decide. In the case of Punjab also, people decided. Wherever people want us we will fight from there.





News18Going through your twitter handle, like on Republic day, you said that the PM has asked the CBI to raid your department and seize papers



AK: They came on 20th January. They took away all the files of our feedback unit. Tell me, is this a Republic? Is this federal structure? Every single day, CBI takes away files from one of our departments. Why is Modiji so negative? Why is he after us?





News18You have had an antagonistic relationship with the PM...is there anything positive you see in him?



AK: If he (Modi) decides to take on someone, he doesnt stop. He is vindictive, very vindictive. (Matlab woh agar thaan liya na: isko chodna nahi, badla lena hai, toh chodte nahi usko. Matlab bahut vindictive hain. Bahut zyada vindictive hain)





News18 It's been two years of the Modi government. Can you think of any positive thing Modi has done?



AK:I dont know. I can't think of anything. Can you suggest something?





News18You are turning the question on me...a question is not the answer.



AK: I can't think of anything positive that he has done in the past two years.





News18Nothing at all?



AK: I can't think of anything.





News18How important is Punjab for you?



AK: Arvind Kejriwal is not important, Aam Aadmi Party is not important. Whatever we are doing, we are doing it for the state, for the country. For us, every part of the country is important. We came into politics out of compulsion, not out of choice. Wherever people want us, we will work hard... that is our duty... the rest is up to God.




The BJP released its manifesto 'Lok Kalyan Sabkalp Patr 2017' for Uttar Pradesh on Saturday.



BJP national president Amit Shah, while releasing the manifesto said,"I appeal to the people to give us one opportunity and we promise to turn UP into a developed state."



Here are some key takeaways:



- The party will work towards building Ram Mandir in Ayodhya using constitutional means



- If elected, the party will ask for feedback from Muslim women in the state about what they want and will join the Triple Talaq case in the Supreme Court on their side



- A special police team will be formed in western UP to prevent Kairana type of exodus



- Ban on mechanised abattoirs will be put in place and no new abattoirs will be allowed to be set up. There will be a ban on all Illegal slaughter houses



- Anti Land Mafia task force to be set up in each district of UP



- Police will reach the crime spot in 15 minutes, accused will be sent to jail within 45 days



- Six new AIIMS hospitals will be set up



- 25 new medical colleges and super specialty hospitals will be set up



- For women safety: Anti-Romeo Dals, Widow pension schemes boost, new women battalions, new women only police stations in every district



- Six IT parks will be set-up



- Kanpur, Gorakhpur, Allahabad metro projects will be started immediately



- New airports will be created to boost tourism; new helicopter services to be added



- Lucknow and Noida metro projects will be expanded



- Free piped/LPG gas connection in every home



- Free education of girls who score over 50 percent upto class XI



- Rs 500 cr Baba Ambedkar Education Scholarship Fund for meritorious students



- 24 hours power to be supplied to all households in the state, cheaper rates for the poor



- Clear the pending dues of Cane Farmers within 120 days after the government formation



- Agricultural loans to be waived



- Landless labourers to get Rs 2 lakh life insurance



- No interview for Class III and IV UP government jobs to end corruption in recruitment
BSP Supremo Mayawati launched a scathing attack on the BJP and its election manifesto for the upcoming assembly polls in Uttar Pradesh.

Minutes after BJP National President Amit Shah on Saturday released the manifesto promising a bunch of schemes including the construction of Ram Temple at a function in Indira Gandhi Pratishthan in Lucknow, Mayawati said that the BJP hasnt been able to fulfill its promises made in the 2014 elections.

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A technology industry alliance devoted to making sure smart machines don't turn against humanity said Friday that Apple has signed on and will have a seat on the board.Microsoft, Amazon, Google, Facebook, IBM, and Google-owned British AI firm DeepMind last year established the non-profit organisation, called "Partnership on AI," which will have its inaugural board meeting in San Francisco on February 3.Apple "has been involved and collaborating with the partnership since before it was first announced and is thrilled to formalise its membership," the alliance said in an online post.Major technology firms joined forces in the group, with stated aims including cooperation on "best practices" for AI and using the technology "to benefit people and society."Creation of the group came amid concerns that new artificial intelligence efforts could spin out of control and end up being detrimental to society.The companies "will conduct research, recommend best practices, and publish research under an open license in areas such as ethics, fairness, and inclusivity; transparency, privacy, and interoperability; collaboration between people and AI systems; and the trustworthiness, reliability, and robustness of the technology," according to a statement.Internet giants have been investing heavily in creating software to help machines think more like people, ideally acting as virtual assistants who get to know users and perhaps even anticipate needs.SpaceX founder and Tesla chief executive Elon Musk in 2015 took part in creating nonprofit research company OpenAI devoted to developing artificial intelligence that will help people and not hurt them.Musk found himself in the middle of a technology world controversy by holding firm that AI could turn on humanity and be its ruin instead of a salvation.A concern expressed by Musk was that highly advanced artificial intelligence would be left to its own devices, or in the hands of a few people, to the detriment of civilisation as a whole.People joining tech company executives on the Partnership board included Dario Amodei of Open AI along with members of the American Civil Liberties Union; the MacArthur Foundation, and the University of California, Berkeley.
Robots about the size of a beer cooler could soon be rolling down Virginia sidewalks to deliver sandwiches, groceries or packages.Supporters say proposed legislation to allow the robots would make the state the first in the nation to regulate such devices.State lawmakers partnered with European company Starship Technologies on bills allowing Virginia cities to join two others in the U.S. and many across Europe where the company is testing its largely autonomous earthbound robots. Much like other tech companies' attempts at airborne drone deliveries, Starship aims to revolutionise the way people get their parcels.Representatives from the company visited Richmond on Wednesday for a demonstration. With six wheels, a top that swings open and a flag for visibility, Starship's compact "personal delivery devices" are designed to carry goods within a 2- to 3-mile radius. They can hold up to 22 pounds, or about three shopping bags' worth of goods. Recipients can unlock them with a smartphone app."When I first saw it, I thought, 'Oh, a cooler on wheels,'" said Del. Ron Villanueva, who's sponsoring the House bill.But the Republican became more interested upon hearing about the robot's uses. He says it could benefit consumers, who are relying more and more on e-commerce, as well as logistics management companies. Starship, led by Skype co-founders, also promotes the devices as a more environmentally friendly way to deal with local deliveries."Big vans  stopping and starting, polluting. It's so inefficient, and our little robots are best optimised for those sort of deliveries," said Starship spokesman Henry Harris-Burland.The company says the robots could also get groceries to homebound people at a fraction of the cost of current delivery services and help expand access to healthy groceries.Although pilot programs are underway in Washington, D.C., and Redwood City, California, Villanueva and company representatives say Virginia would be first with a state law governing such robots. David Catania, a lobbyist representing the company, said the current law has grey areas about whether the robots would be classified as a motor vehicle, and Starship "wanted to make sure there's no doubt about its legality. "If the legislation passes, Starship would start a pilot program in Virginia, Harris-Burland said. He declined to say which city or cities the company has in mind.The bills, one of which was approved by a Senate committee Wednesday, would allow the robots to operate on any sidewalk or shared-use path unless a local government prohibits them. They couldn't carry hazardous materials and would face speed limits.The company hopes theft-prevention measures can help its devices avoid a fate like that of HitchBOT, a hitchhiking robot that captured worldwide attention two years ago but met an untimely demise in Philadelphia when vandals damaged it beyond repair.Starship's devices are equipped with cameras and two-way audio so operators can talk to nearby people, and they would have their lids locked during deliveries, Harris-Burland said. If someone picked one up, a car-alarm type noise would start blaring.Catherine Ralston, Redwood City's economic development manager, said the city's experience so far been largely positive."Americans are just like, 'Oh, it's a new technology,' and don't give it a second thought anymore," she said.The growing use of drones has sparked privacy concerns, and the robots, with their nine cameras, could raise similar complaints.Claire Guthrie Gastanaga, executive director of the Virginia American Civil Liberties Union, said her group's principal concern with such technologies is with government surveillance. The group hasn't been keeping track of the rolling robot legislation, she said.Paul Mackie, a spokesman for Mobility Lab, a publicly funded nonprofit based in Arlington that researches transportation issues, called the bill "a total slam dunk" for Virginia and said he'd be shocked if it didn't pass.He called it an inexpensive way for policymakers to address the fact that some cities have no more room for new roads and existing ones are being clogged by delivery vehicles."I think these little R2-D2 talking mini-fridges could do a lot for saving space and making things safer on the streets and sidewalks," he said.
Hong Kong's securities regulator said brokers in the city had suffered cyber attacks and warned of possible further incidents across the industry.Don't miss: BlackBerry Dual SIM Budget Android Smartphone Surfaces Regulators in Hong Kong have been stepping up efforts over the past year to combat the growing menace of cyber attacks on companies.Read more: Vodafone May Join Hands With Idea Cellular A survey in November showed the average number of such attacks detected by firms in mainland China and Hong Kong grew a whopping 969 percent between 2014 and 2016.Read more: NASA Displays Apollo 1 Hatch After 50 Years of Fatal Fire In a circular to licensed firms late on Thursday, the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) said it had been informed by the Hong Kong police that brokers had encountered so-called "distributed denial of service" (DDoS) attacks targeting their websites and received blackmails from criminals.Read more: Xiaomi Mi6 May Have Ceramic Body, Dual-edged Curved Screen; All You Want to Know "The DDoS attacks have caused service disruption to the brokers for a short period. It is possible that similar cybersecurity incidents would be observed across the securities industry," the SFC said in the notice.Distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks, among the most common on the Internet, involve cyber criminals using hijacked and virus-infected computers to target websites with data requests, until they are overwhelmed and unable to function.The SFC urged firms in the financial centre to implement protective measures, including reviews of the IT systems and DDoS mitigation plans.
Beijing: China on Saturday raised objections over the presence of the Prime Minister of 'Tibetan government-in-exile' at a recent dinner hosted by former US envoy to India Richard Verma in New Delhi, saying it resolutely opposes any country's "interference" in its internal affairs by using Tibet issue as an excuse.



The dinner hosted by Verma on January 15 in honour of his visiting friend and Hollywood actor Richard Gere was reportedly also attended by the Prime Minister of the Tibetan government-in-exile, Lobsang Sangay.



"No country in the world recognises the so-called Tibetan government-in-exile," Chinese Foreign Ministry said in a written response to PTI over reports that the Prime Minister of Tibetan government-in-exile was present at the event.



"We are firmly against any country's official contact with it in any form, and resolutely opposed to any country's interference in China's internal affairs by using Tibet related issues as an excuse," the Foreign Ministry said.



The private gathering hosted by Verma days before Donald Trump took over as US President was made public by Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju who thanked the envoy for the dinner on Twitter.



Photographs posted on his Twitter page showed the Prime Minister of the Tibetan government-in-exile and other US diplomats attending the dinner.



China routinely protests visits and meetings of Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama and his associates saying it constitutes interference in its internal affairs.



In October last year, China objected to Verma's visit to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh which Beijing claims as southern Tibet, saying any interference by Washington in the Sino-India boundary dispute will make it "more complicated" and "disturb" hard-won peace at the border.



Last month, China took strong exception to the Dalai Lama's meeting with President Pranab Mukherjee at the Rashtrapathi Bhavan during a children's summit.
United Nations: The new U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, Nikki Haley, pledged on Friday to overhaul the world body and warned U.S. allies that if they do not support Washington, then she is "taking names" and will respond.



Haley made brief remarks to reporters as she arrived at the world body's headquarters in New York to present her credentials to U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.



"Our goal with the administration is to show value at the U.N. and the way that we'll show value is to show our strength, show our voice, have the backs of our allies and make sure that our allies have our back as well," Haley said.



"For those that don't have our back, we're taking names, we will make points to respond to that accordingly," added Republican President Donald Trump's U.N. envoy.



Haley, who was South Carolina's Republican governor when Trump picked her for the post, has little foreign policy and no U.S. federal government experience.



French U.N. Ambassador Francois Delattre and British U.N. Ambassador Matthew Rycroft said they looked forward to working with Haley. The United States, Britain and France, along with Russia and China, are permanent veto-wielding members of the U.N. Security Council.



After her meeting with Guterres, a U.S. official said they had "a good and productive conversation about ways they can work together to reform the U.N."



Haley told reporters, "Everything that's working, we're going to make it better, everything that's not working we're going to try and fix, and anything that seems to be obsolete and not necessary we're going to do away with."



According to a draft executive order published by The Daily Beast, Trump wants a committee - including his secretary of state, attorney general and director of national intelligence -to carry out a one-year review of U.S. funding to international organizations with the aim of almost halving voluntary funding.



A senior U.S. administration official said on Friday that no such executive order was "expected at this time."



The United States is the largest contributor to the United Nations, paying 22 percent of the $5.4 billion core U.N. budget and 28 percent of the $7.9 billion U.N. peacekeeping budget. These are assessed contributions - agreed by the U.N. General Assembly - and not voluntary payments.



U.N. agencies, such as the U.N. Development Programme, the children's agency UNICEF, the World Food Programme and the U.N. Population Fund, are funded voluntarily.



Last year, Trump took to Twitter to disparage the 193-member world body after the United States abstained in a Dec. 23 U.N. Security Council vote, allowing the adoption of a resolution demanding an end to settlement building by U.S. ally Israel.



Trump, who had called on President Barack Obama's administration to veto the resolution, warned that "things will be different" at the United Nations after he took office on Jan. 20.
Islamabad: Pakistan has expressed the hope that the Saarc summit, scheduled to be held in November 2016 and postponed due to the boycott by India, will be organised soon.



Adviser to Pakistani Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz on Friday talked to Arjun Bahadur Thapa, the outgoing Secretary General of South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc), that India "impeded the process and violated the spirit of the Saarc Charter".



"Pakistan remains committed to hosting the 19th Saarc Summit here at the earliest so that the objectives of regional cooperation under the Saarc umbrella can be pursued more vigorously," Xinhua news agency quoted Aziz as saying.



According to Nepal, the current SAARC Chair, the conference was cancelled after Bangladesh, Bhutan, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka followed India's decision to boycott the summit.



Thapa emphasised the need to overcome the difficulties that the organisation faced and expressed the hope that the summit would be held as soon as possible.



The boycott from the Indian side came as relations between the neighbouring nations dipped after the September 18 attack at an Indian Army base in Uri town of Kashmir that left 19 soldiers dead. India blamed Pakistani militants for the attack.



Aziz reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to regional cooperation under the framework of SAARC for promoting the welfare of the people of South Asia, improving their quality of life, economic progress, social uplift and cultural cooperation.



Aziz believed the Saarc Secretariat could play an important role as a catalyst to bring all the member states together and ensure timely and effective implementation of programmes and activities that would benefit the region.
Colombo: Former Sri Lankan strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa has accused President Maithripala Sirisena of trying to appease the minority Tamil community by promising devolution of power, saying he will oppose the "fraudulent" new Constitution.



"What did they say (the Sirisena government), they said powers of the presidency will be reduced and Parliament would be strengthened," the former president, whose nearly a decade- long rule was ended by Sirisena, said while addressing a public rally on Friday.



"We will oppose this fraudulent new Constitution," Rajapaksa said, adding that the large gathering at his rally was an indication that people did not want a new Constitution.



"The motive of the new Constitution is to appease the Tamil minority in their quest for political independence," he said



Referring to the military defeat of LTTE in 2009, Rajapaksa said, "We have to safeguard our victory".



He said the Sirisena government through the new Constitution would betray his victory over Tamil separatism.



The government aims to replace the existing 1978 Constitution with a new one while accommodating Tamil demand for devolution of power to their regions.



Reports from six sub-committees comprising members from all political parties are to be referred to the main steering committee. No draft of the new Constitution was agreed.



According to analysts, Rajapaksa's joint opposition, in their greater political plan to upset the current unity government, appears to whip up the Sinhala majority sentiments against the new Constitution.



Earlier this month, Tamil party Tamil National Alliance said it will not be a part of the ongoing Constitution-making process and will quit if the government abandons the idea of finding a political solution to the Tamil issue and more devolution is not considered.



The new Constitution will replace the current executive president-headed Constitution adopted in 1978.



The government expects the new Constitution to address the demand of Tamil minorities for political recognition.



With the defeat of the Tamil Tigers in 2009, the Tamil groups have opted for maximum devolution as opposed to LTTE's goal of a separate Tamil homeland.
Ankara: British Prime Minister Theresa May on Saturday refused to condemn an order by US President Donald Trump suspending refugee arrivals, saying Washington was responsible for its own refugee policy.



"The United States is responsible for the United States' policy on refugees. The United Kingdom is responsible for the United Kingdom's policy on refugees," May said at a news conference in Ankara, after being repeatedly pressed to give her opinion on Trump's executive order.



"And our policy on refugees is to have a number of voluntary schemes to bring Syrian refugees into the country, particularly those who are most vulnerable but also to provide significant financial contributions to support refugees in countries surrounding Syria," she added.



On the same day May visited Washington for her first White House meeting with Trump to bolster the London-Washington relationship, the new president ordered a suspension of refugee arrivals.



He also imposed tough controls on travellers from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.



At a joint news conference with Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim, May had initially declined to be drawn into directly giving any comment on Trump's order.



Instead she praised Turkey for its hospitality in hosting some three million refugees from Syria and also Iraq. Yildirim however offered implicit condemnation of Trump's move, saying throwing up walls will not solve the world's refugee problems.



"We cannot solve this refugee problem by putting up walls," Yildirim said.



Trump's executive order specifically says no visas will be issued for 90 days to migrants or visitors from the seven Muslim-majority countries.



Yildirim insisted that with tens of millions of refugees worldwide, it was a problem which "could not be ignored" but had to be solved with greater cooperation between countries.



"We opened our doors, and if they come again, we would take them again," he said, adding: "Regional problems cannot be solved by sweeping them under the carpet."



The Turkish authorities say they are hosting some 2.7 million Syrian refugees who fled the country during the over six-year conflict and another 300,000 Iraqi refugees.



Yildirim added it would not be possible to make "assessments on hearsay" with regard to Trump's order.
Voicing extreme concern over discrimination, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday said the United Nations must strengthen its work to improve human rights.



Guterres told a Holocaust commemoration event that discrimination faced by immigrants and refugees as well as the stereotyping of Muslims were opening the door to even more extreme hatred.



His remarks came as US President Donald Trump was reportedly preparing to suspend the US refugee program and halt visas for travellers from seven Muslim countries.



"I am extremely concerned at the discrimination faced by immigrants, refugees and minorities across the world. Today, I find the stereotyping of Muslims deeply troubling," he told the General Assembly.



"A 'new normal' of public discourse is taking hold, in which prejudice is given a free pass and the door is opened to even more extreme hatred."



"We need to be vigilant," Guterres added.



"The United Nations itself must do more to strengthen its human rights machinery, and to push for justice for the perpetrators of grave crimes."



Trump is reportedly considering a draft executive order that would ban refugees from Syria from entering the United States while the broader US refugee program would be suspended for 120 days.



"The world is a mess. The world is as angry as it gets. What, you think this is going to cause a little more anger? The world is an angry place," Trump told ABC News this week about his plan.



Under the proposed plan, all visa applications from countries deemed a terrorist threat -- Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen -- will be halted for 30 days.



Guterres said anti-Semitism, racism, xenophobia and anti-Muslim hatred were being whipped up by populism and "by political figures who exploit fear to win votes."
New Delhi: The United States has for long feared that Pakistan, its cold war ally, will breach the trust and pass on its defence technology and weapons to China, a declassified CIA report said.



This betrays the common perception that Pakistan betrayed the United States and hosted Osama bin Laden, who was killed by US marines in Abbottabad in Pakistan in 2011.



Even at the peak of bilateral relations during the 80s, the United States was certain that Pakistan will give China unauthorised access to American weapons and technology, the 1983 report declassified by the Directorate of Intelligence, Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), said.



"Major strains in relations with the United States over the nuclear issue or new disputes on arms agreement could undermine Islamabad's confidence in the United States and threaten the security relationship, possibly causing Pakistan to share US weapons or technology with China," the report said.



Realising the transactional nature of the US-Pakistan relationship, the report says: "We believe Pakistan will probably safeguard the new US arms it receives to protect the arms supply relationship unless major strains develop in relations with the United States."



"Even if US-Pakistani relations remain strong, however, there is a risk that China at some point will gain access to Pakistan's US arm given the intimacy of Pakistan's ties to China."



Accepting the strength and depth of the China-Pakistan relationship, the report notes: "Pakistan still considers its relations with China more durable than those with the US."



"The resolution last winter of the ALR-69 radar warning receiver issue to Zia's satisfaction and the delivery of the first F-16 has strengthened Islamabad's faith in the US security relationship," the report added.



Pakistan purchased 45 F-16 multi-role fighter aircraft, considered one of the best in the world, from the US in the 80s.



The US-Pakistan relation was at its peak in 80s and Pakistan was at the forefront of the US-led war against the Russian forces in Afghanistan. Pakistan played an instrumental role in normalising the diplomatic relations between China and the US.



Pakistan was also one the leading members of the Central Treaty Organisation (CENTO) and the Southeast Asia Treaty Organisation (SEATO) during most of the Cold War.


Wayne Barrett was never flashy. No flowery prose, no national audience, no platform.

Barrett was a quiet, lethal hit man hiding in the shadows. Instead of bullets, he used facts.

They could never sue him, said Alexandria resident Larry Barrett of his younger brother and fellow Lynchburg native, who died Jan 19 of a long-term, progressive lung disease at 71, because he crossed all the ts and doted all his is.

They included such New York City powerbrokers as former mayors Ed Koch and Rudy Giuliani and a financier named Donald Trump. Barrett wrote critical books  and countless newspaper and magazine articles  about all of them.

Trump threatened to sue Wayne, Larry Barrett said, and he just said, Bring it.

Barretts style was as rough as his neighborhood.

Like the way he answered the telephone, Larry said. It was always, Yeah?

And his writing was straight to the jugular, filled with numbers and what lay behind those numbers, buttressed by facts.

Sometimes his pieces got a little long and tedious to read, Larry said, but he always wanted everything in there.

Educated at Holy Cross Catholic School in Lynchburg, St. Josephs University and Columbia Universitys graduate school for journalism, Barrett settled into New York City after college and never left. For 37 years, he wielded his typewriter (and, later, computer) as a rapier on behalf of the Village Voice, a publication only dimly understood by most of the country but a fierce opinion-influencer in the Big Apple.

Barrett didnt care if he was well-known in Iowa or Arizona. His turf was New York City, and he knew it well.

Ive heard it said so often that Wayne knew where all the bodies were buried, Larry Barrett said. He called himself a detective for the people.

It was Thursday afternoon, and Larry was in the backseat of a car traveling up the New Jersey Turnpike, heading to Waynes funeral at Our Lady of the Presentation Catholic Church in Brooklyn. His brother Chris  a deacon at Resurrection Catholic Church in Moneta  was in the front passenger seat; Chris wife, Anne Gibbons, associate chaplain at Lynchburg College, was driving.

Wayne was always interested in journalism, Chris said. He was the editor of the school paper at Holy Cross and went off to a student journalism institute one summer. He covered the 1968 national political campaign for the National Catholic Reporter. He also finished second in a national debate competition when he was at Holy Cross.

Wayne did briefly consider becoming a priest but dropped out of the seminary after a few months. His newspaper became his church.

Its the only job, he once said, where they pay you to tell the truth.

To anyone who knew Wayne Barrett, the timing of his death was heavy irony  the day before his old adversary, Donald Trump, would be inaugurated as president of the United States. Trumps unlikely campaign had brought Barrett back into the public eye. His 1992 book, Trump: The Deals and the Downfall, became an out-of-print treasure.

Wayne heard that some people were willing to pay up to $2,000 for a copy, Larry Barrett said. Then, after Wayne wrote an updated introduction and the book was put out again, he found a box of the old ones in his basement.

Barrett once crashed a party for Trump in Atlantic City to gather information for his book. He was removed in handcuffs and arrested for trespassing.

Over the past year, however, as Barrett battled his disease, a steady parade of writers and reporters came to his townhouse to pick his brain and rummage through his voluminous files on Donald Trump.
WASHINGTON - Jessica Stanton, a third-year student at Liberty University's law school, led a group of about 15 Liberty students to today's 44th annual March for Life, against abortion.

"We believe that the right to life is fundamental and monumental to all other rights that are afforded to us by the Constitution," she said.

"You have to be alive in order to exercise those rights, and abortion ends life."

Thousands of Virginians headed to the nation's capital to mark what organizers term the "somber anniverary" of Roe vs. Wade, the 1973 U.S. Supreme Court decision that found a woman's right to terminate a pregnancy came within a right to privacy under the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

This year's march, a week after President Donald Trump's inauguration, comes as the Republican prepares to announce his pick for the U.S. Supreme Court. The court has been down to eight members since Justice Antonin Scalia died in February 2016.

Mary and Kevin Flanagan of Arlington County have marched in many of the annual events. They have two grown, adopted children and Mary Flanagan spent 30 years working as a physical therapist for children with disabilities.

She lamented that many pregnancies involving a fetus with Down Syndrome are terminated. Kevin Flanagan said he started going to the March for Life in 1980. He said the election of a Republican president alongside a GOP-controlled Congress offers some improvement for the chances of legislation on abortion.

But he said: "I remember the Reagan days, and we thought that there would be changes then."

Many years later, he is still marching.

***

The Virginia Society for Human Life said in a statement that "this year's efforts to expand protection for the unborn" are focused on The Pain Capable Unborn Child Protection Act. House Bill 1473, sponsored by Del. David LaRock, R-Loudoun, seeks to restrict abortions based upon when fetuses can feel pain.

A spokesman for Ed Gillespie, one of four GOP candidates for governor, stressed on Friday that Gillespie "will sign pain-capable legislation" as governor and that Gillespie would work with the legislature on specifics.

Gillespie attended the March for Life and tweeted a photo of himself shaking hands with Vice President Mike Pence following Pence's speech at the march.

Corey Stewart, another GOP hopeful for governor, also attended the march. Stewart, chairman of the Prince William Board of County Supervisors, has said he would sign LaRock's bill.

A third GOP candidate for governor, Denver Riggleman, co-owner of Silverback Distillery in Nelson County, says on his campaign website: "I will sign the 20-week ban."

The fourth GOP candidate, Sen. Frank W. Wagner, R-Virginia Beach, said this week he supports a ban on abortion after 20 weeks as long as there are appropriate safeguards for the health of the mother. He said he would not support a blanket ban after 20 weeks without that safeguard.

Attorney General Mark R. Herring, a Democrat who is seeking re-election, said in a formal opinion this week that LaRock's legislation would "very likely be struck down as unconstitutional."

Gov. Terry McAuliffe, a Democrat, would veto the LaRock bill if it cleared the legislature.

***

Tom and Gayle Hines of Nokesville, in Prince William County, joined the march with Peggy Bolton, a friend from their church. It's been years since they attended a March for Life.

"I'm more hopeful now that we have an administration that happens to be pro-life," Gayle Hines said.

She said she hopes Congress can work with Trump to take legislative action against abortion.

"We are more hopeful now that we have a voice," she said.
Thumbs up to Josh Baker, whos leaving his job as general manager for the Greater Lynchburg Transit Co. for a similar position in Northern Virginia.

Baker has been on the job in Lynchburg since January 2015; his last day in the Hill City was Jan. 27. On Feb. 6, hell begin serving as general manager and CEO of the Alexandria Transit Co.

Bakers time in Lynchburg has been a fruitful time, both for him and GLTC. He built on the successes of his predecessor, Karen Walton, in strengthening the relationship between GLTC and Lynchburg City Council, and hes led the transit company in a building program that well positions it for future growth.

Construction is winding down on a new, $18.8 million operations and maintenance facility on Bradley Drive. Work began in May 2015 and followed construction of the transit station at the Kemper Street Amtrak station. Under Bakers and Waltons leadership, close partnerships have been developed with local colleges, especially Liberty University. Ridership has also risen; the average yearly ridership is now close 3 million passengers.

Baker has spent 17 years in the public transit industry. A graduate of Virginia Tech, he got his start as a bus driver in college. He then went on to lead a new transit system in Radford before coming to Lynchburg. Topping off his honors and accomplishments, he received the White House Champions of Change award and was tapped as a Top 40 under 40 by Mass Transit magazine.

Kudos on the new position, but were going to miss him in Lynchburg.

* * *

Thumbs up to Lynchburg fashion designer India Laposh, both for her success in the cutthroat world of high-end fashion and for her personal courage in recognizing and accepting her sexual identity.

Laposh, though born a male, always identified as  and felt she was  a female. In 10th grade at E.C. Glass High School, she came out to her family as gay; in college, she began her transition into her female identity, coming out to her parents as a transgender woman.

Following graduation from Glass in 2008, Laposh entered American InterContinental University in Atlanta, earning a degree in fashion design and retail management. After graduation, she returned to Lynchburg, taking on freelance design work.

Her biggest career moment came as the result of pure chutzpah mixed with a little bit of luck. On Instagram, she reached out to transgender actress Laverne Cox, star of Netflixs Orange is the New Black, and offered to put her in some of her designs. Since the 2016 Emmys, Cox has worn House of Laposh creations, giving the local design a pretty high profile in the fashion industry.

She incorporated House of Laposh only last year  it has only one employee, but Laposh has high hopes for her company, aiming for a spot on the international stage.

We dont doubt that shell get there.
I'm for helping to fund contraceptive or abortion in countries where parents are having kids every years, but loose half of them to starvation!! As for Canada, I would put the brakes on woman who are using free abortions as a method of contraception. One abortion can happen and should be done free and in a safe environment, by a real doctor, but 10!! seriously. Some stupid bimbo's don't like the pill because it comes with too much responsibilities; they are either too drunk or stoned so forget. But worst, they think they will gain weight on the pill. The 2nd + should be charged (still done in a save environment, but not for free).
Revisit the founding of the JSA and foreshadow its future in The New Golden Age #1 preview

And see what lies ahead in the future of the DC Universe
Falklands seeks TT energy expertise

Special advisers Amelia Appleby and Victoria Collier also comprised the delegation.

The delegation made this known to a panel discussion, Reality of the Falkland Islands today, held on Thursday by the SALISES Department of the University of the West Indies, St Augustine, chaired by acting Director, Dr Roy McCree.

The British dependency in the South Atlantic was subject to Argentine invasion in 1982, with governmental- level relations still frosty.

The Falkland Islands is a twin island territory, the size of Jamaica and with a healthy economy plus large deposits of oil and gas, but there the similarities end. Unlike TT, the Falklands has virtually no crime and no unemployment, even as it needs to increase its population gradually.

Already, amongst the territorys minuscule population of 3,000 persons in the remote and windswept territory, one TT national, Christine Ramoutar, is already running Falkland Radio.

Hansen said the Falklands as a new arrival in the energy-sector has chosen to seek help from TT so as to benefit from this countrys decades of experience.

He said a TT energy sector delegation had once visited the Falklands at Hansens invitation.

On his visit to TT, Hansen has signed an MOU with Kensons for the training of Falkland Islands youngsters in the energy industry.

He said that for domestic consumption the Falklands is very much into renewable energy including wind turbines which supply 40 percent of Port Stanleys energy- needs, and is now looking at solar power.

Hansen noted that the Falkland Islands Legislature aims that oil drilled offshore will be transported away, and not be brought ashore for any refining which he said could pose a threat to the pristine ecology which is itself a valuable source of eco-tourism.

Otherwise he said the Falklands economy relies on the grant of fisheries licences to foreign interests, plus the rearing of sheep and cows.
Corruption worse and we like it so

The index measures the perception of business people and country experts about corruption in the country. It does not measure perceived corruption in the private sector. However, Transparency International recognises that the private sector is generally the source of the bribes paid to public sector workers, therefore it is equally to blame for TT s poor corruption perception.

The surveys were conducted over 24 months, essentially between 2014 and 2015, by five reputable and international institutions. Of 176 countries surveyed, TT was ranked 101 (2015: 72 of 168), the lowest among Caricom countries, except for Guyana and Haiti. On a scale of 100 to 0 where 100 is perceived to be very clean and 0 perceived to be highly corrupt, TT scored 35 (2015: 39).

There is the well-known saying that a country gets the government it deserves. That could be adapted to a country gets the Corruption Perception Index it deserves.

In our case, many individuals and leaders of corporate TT who have been complaining about government corruption over recent years are probably hanging their heads in shame over our countrys poor performance in CPI 2016. I would like to ask them: What, except for complaining and blaming others, have you done to fight the cancer of corruption in TT ? I suspect the majority have done nothing, which is par for the course in TT .

On the other hand, the Trinidad and Tobago Transparency Institute (TTT I) has been doing plenty (www.transparency.

org.tt) but with little recognition or support from those who complain the most. Since 1998, TTT I has been the only TT civil society organisation dedicated to fighting corruption through its promotion of transparency and integrity in public life.

A few members fight corruption in the trenches because it is a battle that has to be won if we are to leave our children a better country. Other members lend their support in the background through their membership fee.

It is understandable that many concerned people may not want to join TTT I members in the trenches to fight corruption but individuals and corporate TT can and should support its work by donations and/or becoming members for a small annual fee.

Let us put our money where our mouth is and make TT a better place.

Victor Hart via email
East Port-of-Spain Development Company board appointed

He intends to review and seek Cabinets approval for the companys draft strategic development plan and begin active implementation once the plan has been approved by Cabinet.

Another urgent priority for George is getting stakeholders to buy-in to the idea of working together to improve the quality of life and standard of living so as to ensure continued improvement to the communities that EPOSDC serves. The new chairman announced his plans on Monday during a simple ceremony at the Housing Ministrys South Quay, Port-of- Spain office, where he and fellow EPOSDC board members received their Letters of Appointment from Housing Minister, Randall Mitchell.

Dr Jeffrey Reyes and Ann Marie Francis- Charles were appointed as Directors of EPOSDC at that same ceremony. Present to witness the event was the ministrys Permanent Secretary, Simone Thorne-Mora, and EPOSDC Managing Director, Dr Deborah Thomas-Austin.

Mitchell reminded the new board of the important responsibility they had agreed to accept and urged them to always adhere to the principles of good corporate governance.

Underscoring the fact that their role was significant in addressing issues of urban decay and poor infrastructure within the communities of East PoS, Mitchell said the companys projects must always be focused on improving the quality of life for citizens who live, work and recreate within East PoS and environs.

The minister urged the new board to drive the urban revitalisation agenda for East PoS, so that residents and constituents can benefit from positive physical, social and economic transformation.
In 1932, the Bank of Morse Bluff  like many across the country  had to close due to financial difficulties during the Great Depression.

But Emil Wolf had a plan to help his customers.

Wolf, the bank president, worked out an agreement with the depositors. He got everyone to agree that theyd get 50 percent of what they had in their accounts the day the bank closed, then the bank would pay them back over time. Stockholders and bank directors wouldnt take any dividends from the bank earnings until all the depositors were paid back.

The bank moved to North Bend two years later.

It would take about 20 years to pay back all the depositors. And just a few years thereafter, Wolf had a heart attack and died.

But hed met his goal of seeing the depositors repaid.

Decades later, the historic bank where Wolf worked in North Bend has been renovated. Decorative plaster beams in the ceiling have been restored as has a stained glass skylight and old-time telephone booth where area residents could take private calls.

Four generations of the Wolf family have managed Platte Valley Bank.

In 2016, the stately old building at 612 Main St., was renovated for the banks 125th anniversary.

Its our gift to the community, said Deanna Wolf, vice president. We are inviting customers, friends and the community to use the building for meetings, private events, class reunions, to come and play bridge. Weve had quite a few meetings here already.

Theres no charge to use it and its a nice, quiet meeting place.

The Bank of Morse Bluff was incorporated in June 1891 and in 1910 Emil Wolf was hired as a cashier for a salary of $100 per month.

First National Bank of North Bend constructed the building at 612 Main St., in 1917.

After the stock market crash of 1929, the nations economy deteriorated and many banks, including four in North Bend would close.

First National closed in 1932. The Bank of Morse Bluff closed its doors on Jan. 4 that year. But unlike other banks, it was able to reorganize, and reopened on Aug. 4, 1932.

When it moved to North Bend in 1934, its name was changed to Platte Valley Bank.

We had lots of customers from the Morse Bluff area as well as the North Bend area and so weve been the only bank in North Bend all this time, said Thomas Wolf, current bank president.

Years passed. Emil Wolf died on March 10, 1955, and his son, Arden, became bank president on March 22.

In 1962, Platte Valley Bank moved into its new quarters with drive-up window service at 606 Main St.

Arden Wolf died in March 1974 and his son, Thomas, was elected executive vice president and officer in charge.

In 1990, ATMs were added and the bank celebrated its 100th anniversary in 1991.

In 1998, it experienced the first bank robbery of its history. The suspect was apprehended within the hour in Schuyler.

The bank observed its 110th anniversary in 2001 and three years later, Katy Wolf  the fourth generation  would begin full time with the bank as assistant vice president.

More recently, in preparation for the 125th anniversary celebration, plans were made to restore the 99-year-old historic bank building next to the current facility.

The old building got a new roof. Inside, a drop ceiling was removed as were acoustical tiles and adhesive residue from the walls. After the adhesive was sanded from the walls, stucco was placed on them again.

Decorative plaster beams were cut, labeled and stored in sections for reinstallation after steel beams were installed to reinforce a sagging ceiling. A sagging floor was removed and new cement footings poured and floor joints reinforced. Wood flooring in the banks board room was refinished.

Perhaps the most exciting renovation occurred after a 1918 article in the North Bend Eagle newspaper was found. The article provided extensive detail about a formal opening of the First National Bank of North Bend.

Between 700 and 800 people were said to have come through the bank during the event. The story also mentioned a skylight with three stained glass windows and a 1917 phone booth.

After poking holes through the drywall ceiling, the Wolfs found three stained glass skylights. The skylights were carefully removed through an opening cut in the new roof. They were cleaned, restored and reinstalled.

The windows were in great condition, Deanna Wolf said. We were very fortunate to find them.

Another exciting find was a little room in the back, which the Wolfs first thought was a safety deposit box viewing room.

But the 1918 article told of a private telephone booth for customers. After layers of flooring were removed, it was clear where the booth originally had been placed.

Kent and Jeanne Fredrickson dismantled and removed the mahogany booth and a coat closet for reinstallation in their original location in the bank.

Original mahogany benches can be seen in the building as well.

Wolf said Mecco Henne Contracting, Inc., was the general contractor and Mike Emanuel, one of the heads of the project, originally was from North Bend.

We were thrilled to get them, Deanna Wolf said.

While the 1917 bank was being restored, Platte Valley Banks current building  constructed in 1962  was extensively remodeled. The building received a new roof, ceiling tiles, light fixtures, carpet, paint and Thermopane windows.

Offices were made a little larger to make them more comfortable for customers.

Work on the buildings started in February 2016 and was finished by the end of July.

Looking back, Thomas and Deanna Wolf marvel at the banks history and those depositors in the 1930s.

Thomas noted how devastated the depositors must have been when the bank closed.

When you had all your money in the banks and the banks closed their doors and you couldnt get it  but it turned out pretty good, he said.

The couple expressed their admiration for the depositors.

You have to give a lot of credit to the depositors to agree to that, waive their deposits until the bank could earn enough to pay them back, Deanna said. They were willing to sacrifice for what they saw was right. They werent selfish. They helped their neighbors.

They were loyal, hardworking honest, Thomas added. They had a lot of confidence in the future and in hard work.

And Thomas noted something else:

They had a lot of faith in grandpa in order to make it all work, he said.
Trump: 'I'll Very, Very, Very

Probably Do It Again'
A group of squatters has seized an empty property on one of Britain's "most expensive and exclusive streets" and turned it into a homeless shelter, the Telegraph reports. According to the Guardian, the five-story, $19 million home was purchased by a Russian oligarch in 2014 but is believed to have sat unused since. The Autonomous Nation of Anarchist Libertarians, or ANAL, got into the home through an open window on Monday. They say they're currently housing 25 or so people who had been sleeping on the street. The nearly 200-year-old house features a spiral staircase, polished floors, and multiple "hand-carved" fireplaces. The squatters have added a projector for movie nights, portable cookers, and a shop with free clothes.

A recent count found approximately 4,000 people sleeping on the streets of London. Another count found more than 200,000 homes that have been empty for more than half a year. ANAL calls that an "injustice." The group says it researched the home before moving in, discovering it was purchased by Russian oligarch Andrey Goncharenko, who has bought four fancy houses in London over the past three years. One squatter tells the Telegraph they "figured the damage caused to him compared to the gains for the homeless community is nothing." The squatter says the house could mean the difference between life and death for homeless people during freezing winter weather. The Mirror has photos from inside the home prior to its new life as a homeless shelter. (Read more squatters stories.)
A California man who killed nearly two-dozen cats may be forced to register as a sex offender, but grieving pet owners will have to wait a little longer to find out, the Mercury News reports. Robert Farmer, 25, was found guilty of stealing, torturing, and killing 21 cats in October 2015 in San Jose. He's facing up to 16 years in prison for those crimes. A dead cat found in the car where he was sleeping when he was arrested showed signs of sexual abuse; if the court decides the murder of the cat "was sexually motivated," Farmer could have to register as a sex offender. "He needs to be registered for something," says one woman whose cat GoGo was taken from her porch. "It's our only hope."

Meanwhile, pet owners are frustrated as Farmer's sentencing date continues to be pushed back. It was delayed again on Friday. He's due back in court in March. (Read more weird crimes stories.)
Fairbanks, AK (99707)

Today

Some clouds in the morning will give way to mainly sunny skies for the afternoon. High 7F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Mainly clear skies. Low -8F. Winds light and variable.
The Daily News-Miner encourages residents to make themselves heard through the Opinion pages. Readers' letters and columns also appear online at newsminer.com. Contact the editor with questions at letters@newsminer.com or call 459-7574.
Mumbai:

Buoyed by success in 2014 State Assembly polls where it managed to win two seats, All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeens efforts to make strong inroads in the upcoming BMC polls has further widened the possibility of division of Muslim votes, say political experts.



Former chief of Mumbai Congress minority cell, Nizamuddin Rayeen, who recently quit the party alleging biases, said, Muslim leaders are themselves divided and very insecure. Therefore, expecting them to do something positive for the community would be like cheating our own selves.



A Muslim leader can be either a corporator, MP or an MLA but he can never become leader of the masses, he said.



Out of 227 corporators in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), there are 21 Muslim councillors with 10 belonging to Congress, five to Samajwadi Party, two are with NCP, three independent, while one with others.



Notably, there are no Muslim corporators in ruling parties BJP and Shiv Sena.



Senior journalist Imtiyaz Manzoor Ahmed said the next months election is going to be ambiguous for the voters.



Muslim voters were already divided between Congress and Samajwadi Party and to make things more complicated, one more party (referring to Hyderabad-based AIMIM) has entered. Voters have become more confused and this is going to led to further division of votes resulting in less representation of leaders in the state politics, Ahmed said.



Voices of people from the community will go unheard and their sorry state is only going to worsen, he lamented.As per 2011 Census, Muslims account for 20 per cent population in the city.



Noted Islamic scholar Zeenat Shaukat Ali said that entry of the new party in the run for BMC elections in going to further confuse voters.



Entry of one more party is certainly going to put voters in a fix, though, the intention might be to put forth an alternative for them, she said.



Muslims are already facing hardships like lack of quality education, unemployment, beside facing discrimination in getting jobs or a house, she said.
New Delhi:

'Padmavati' star cast Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapoor have cleared the air about the controversy surrounding the period drama.

The actors come out in support of director Sanjay Leela Bhansali and claimed that 'Padmavati' will not be distorting the facts.

Their reaction came in response to the recent assault incident with Bhansali on the sets of 'Padmavati' in Rajasthan's Jaigarh Fort.

The activists of Rajput Karni Sena staged the protest at the fort during the shooting and even attempted to vandalise the sets, saying that the filmmaker is changing the history.

The protestors alleged that Bhansali's movie features love scenes between Padmini and Alauddin Khilji which is being played by Deepika and Ranveer in the movie

It was also reported that SLB was also assaulted during the protest.

However, the entire cast has quashed the reports of twisting the facts on micro-blogging site Twitter.

Actress Deepika Padukone, who plays the titular role in 'Padmavati', expressed her displeasure on the incident.

In a series of tweets, she wrote, "In a state of shock!deeply saddened and disheartened by yesterday's events! As Padmavati I can assure you that there is absolutely no distortion of history. Our only endeavour is & has always been to share with the world the story of this courageous & powerful woman in the purest form there is."

In a state of shock!deeply saddened and disheartened by yesterday's events!#Padmavati a Deepika Padukone (@deepikapadukone) January 28, 2017

As Padmavati I can assure you that there is absolutely no distortion of history.#Padmavati a Deepika Padukone (@deepikapadukone) January 28, 2017

Our only endeavour is & has always been to share with the world the story of this courageous & powerful woman in the purest form there is.Y a Deepika Padukone (@deepikapadukone) January 28, 2017

A

Soon, Ranveer Singh too expressed his views on the incident, "As a team, we are making 'Padmavati' keeping in mind the sensitivities and emotions of the people of Rajasthan and the Rajput community. Sanjay Sir is one of the most accomplished & authentic filmmakers we have in India, & he won't ever do anything to hurt anyone's feelings. What's happened is very unfortunate. We hope the people of Rajasthan will understand & empathise with our intentions & give us their support."

As a team, we are making 'Padmavati' keeping in mind the sensitivities and emotions of the people of Rajasthan and the Rajput community. a Ranveer Singh (@RanveerOfficial) January 28, 2017

Sanjay Sir is one of the most accomplished & authentic filmmakers we have in India, & he wont ever do anything to hurt anyones feelings. a Ranveer Singh (@RanveerOfficial) January 28, 2017

Sanjay Sir is one of the most accomplished & authentic filmmakers we have in India, & he wont ever do anything to hurt anyones feelings. a Ranveer Singh (@RanveerOfficial) January 28, 2017

Later, Shahid Kapoor who plays the role of Padmavati's husband Raja Rawal Ratan also condemned the assault saying, "Very very sad. Words do fall short and feel too little to express feelings. Violence is unacceptable. This incident has shocked me. We need to look deep within as a society, as a country, as a people. Where are we headed. Sanjay Bhansali is a filmmaker who the country should be proud of. You will know when u see Padmavati the dignity he brings to it. And my only regret is that I wasn't by his side when this happened."

Very very sad. Words do fall short and feel too little to express feelings. Violence is unacceptable. This incident has shocked me. a Shahid Kapoor (@shahidkapoor) January 28, 2017

We need to look deep within as a society, as a country, as a people. Where are we headed. a Shahid Kapoor (@shahidkapoor) January 28, 2017

Sanjay bhansali is a film maker who the country should be proud of. You will know when u see #padmavati the dignity he brings to it. a Shahid Kapoor (@shahidkapoor) January 28, 2017

Sanjay bhansali is a film maker who the country should be proud of. You will know when u see #padmavati the dignity he brings to it. a Shahid Kapoor (@shahidkapoor) January 28, 2017



Earlier, several other celebs too came out in support of Sanjay Leela Bhansali for 'Padmavati'. The movie is slated to release on November 17 this year.

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New Delhi:

Television actress Kavita Kaushik who was seen playing the role of Chandramukhi Chautala in SAB Tv's 'FIR', has tied the knot with beau Ronnit Biswas on Friday.

Their wedding was a private ceremony in the holy city of Kedarnath and was attended by close friends and family.

The happy bride even shared a picture of herself along with hubby Ronnit on Instagram soon after their wedding.

Kavita was seen dressed in a maroon saree with heavy golden embroidery, while groom Ronnit wore a maroon jacket for his special day.

One could easily see the bridal glow on Kavita's fave and she flaunted her sindoor and mangalsutra in the picture.

The new bride captioned the image as "Har har Mahadev".

Har har Mahadev ! A photo posted by Kavita Kaushik (@ikavitakaushik) on Jan 27, 2017 at 6:21am PST

A

The actress later shared a video of herself where she was seen walking down to the mandap with her relatives.

When it snows for ur wedding u know ur blessed YY thank you Papa aiaiaiaiai A video posted by Kavita Kaushik (@ikavitakaushik) on Jan 28, 2017 at 3:16am PST

A

On the other hand, Kavita's close friend Aashka Goradia also shared a picture of the wedding ceremony on Instagram, with a caption "She challenges the odds, the toughest, the most unaccustomed and she WINS... each and every time, she stands out to be an extraordinarily brave woman. Har ghar mein tere Jesi beti ho @ikavitakaushik @ronnit0507 thank you is a very small word I have for you Ronnit Biswas. Dher saari khushiyaan. @peaceofblue and I love you #allinclusive".



Aashka had attended the wedding with her fiance Brent Goble.

Earlier, bride Kavita had also shared aA picture of her mehendi ceremony and she looked gorgeous in her pink and purple attire.

Mehndi done a ai A photo posted by Kavita Kaushik (@ikavitakaushik) on Jan 24, 2017 at 6:06pm PST

Interestingly, Ronnit and Kabita happened to be best friends until they announced their relationship in September last year.

Here's wishing the newly-wed couple a happy married life.
Beijing:

China on Saturday raised objections over the presence of the Prime Minister of Tibetan government-in-exile at a recent dinner hosted by former US envoy to India Richard Verma in New Delhi, saying it resolutely opposes any countrys interference in its internal affairs by using Tibet issue as an excuse.

The dinner hosted by Verma on January 15 in honour of his visiting friend and Hollywood actor Richard Gere was reportedly also attended by the Prime Minister of the Tibetan government-in-exile, Lobsang Sangay.

No country in the world recognises the so-called Tibetan government-in-exile, Chinese Foreign Ministry said in a written response to PTI over reports that the Prime Minister of Tibetan government-in-exile was present at the event.

We are firmly against any countrys official contact with it in any form, and resolutely opposed to any countrys interference in Chinas internal affairs by using Tibet related issues as an excuse, the Foreign Ministry said.

The private gathering hosted by Verma days before Donald Trump took over as US President was made public by Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju who thanked the envoy for the dinner on Twitter yesterday.

Photographs posted on his Twitter page showed the Prime Minister of the Tibetan government-in-exile and other US diplomats attending the dinner.

China routinely protests visits and meetings of Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama and his associates saying it constitutes interference in its internal affairs.

In October last year, China objected to Vermas visit to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh which Beijing claims as southern Tibet, saying any interference by Washington in the Sino-India boundary dispute will make it more complicated and disturb hard-won peace at the border.

Last month, China took strong exception to the Dalai Lamas meeting with President Pranab Mukherjee at the Rashtrapathi Bhavan during a childrens summit.

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Bengaluru:

Former Karnataka Chief Minister and veteran Congress leader SM Krishna has resigned from the primary membership of the party, sources close to him said on Saturday.



84-year old Krishna has written to Congress President Sonia Gandhi conveying his decision, the sources told PTI in Bengaluru.Asked about it, the former Minister for External Affairs declined to react, saying, tomorrow. tomorrow.



He has called a press conference on Sunday, where he is expected to give details about his decision and his future plan of action. Krishna, who was the state Chief Minister from 1999 to 2004 and a former Maharashtra Governor, is reportedly miffed at being sidelined in the party, with which he has more than five-decades-old association.



He had returned to the state in 2012 but had been maintaining a low profile in the last two years.



As the news broke out, apparently surprised state Congress leaders said they were not aware of the development and rushed to his residence to meet Krishna who was away at a function.



I am not aware of it. If it is true, I cant even believe it. I do not want to react now, KPCC President and state Home Minister G Parameshwara told reporters.



We had not sidelined him in any matter from any angle. He is one of the most likeable leaders of our party...the party had not sidelined him, he said.



State Congress Working President Dinesh Gundu Rao also said he had no information.



Without officially knowing I cant react. Krishna is a senior leader who has always played politics with dignity. He has always played positive politics, he said.



The development has hit the Karnataka Congress at a time when a section of partymen are unhappy over the style of functioning of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who is also facing an aggressive BJP which is hoping to stage a comeback to power in the 2018 Assembly polls.

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Jind (Hr):

The fresh round of agitations called by a section of Jats on Sunday to press for their quota demand will continue until the Haryana government gives a written assurance for giving them reservation, a community leader said on Saturday.



The Jat Aarakshan Sangharsh Samiti chief Jai Singh Fauji on Saturday held a meeting with the community leaders in Narvana ahead of their call for a fresh round of quota agitation for which the state has been put on maximum alert.



aWe will continue the agitation till the time the government does not give us an assurance in written about the reservation agreement,a he told reporters after the meeting.



On a question about khaps not supporting the agitation, Fauji said that people who are making these comments are the ones who have been expelled from the khaps and people like these are no significance.



He said during the agitation in February, last year the state government set an SIT and booked them in cases when they did not even pluck a branch from a tree.



aBut still the government imposed sections on us which were not even imposed on anti-nationals,a Fauji said.



aThe state government is calling those for compromise who are not even related to the movement and those hurting the Jat society by teaming up with the government, but we are with those who talk about the welfare of the society,a he added.

Gurugram (Haryana): Jat community to hold protests in 19 districts demanding reservation in jobs and education on January 29. pic.twitter.com/gpAzdfMRNU a ANI (@ANI_news) January 28, 2017

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New Delhi :

5 army personnel are reportedly stuck down under a rapid flow of snow after an Indian Armys snow truck in Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir caved in.

Rescue operations are underway and further details are awaited for the same.

Earlier too, an avalanche had hit an army camp in Gurez sector of Bandipora district near the Line of Control in which several soldiers were trapped.

More than 20 people, including 15 army personnel, have died in avalanches in Gurez sector of Jammu and Kashmir since Wednesday caused due to fresh snow across Kashmir over the past four days.

#FLASH J&K: Avalanche hits an Army post in Kupwara district; more details awaited  ANI (@ANI_news) January 28, 2017

J&K: 5 army personnel hit by avalanche that struck Army post in Kupwara district; rescue operations by Army underway.  ANI (@ANI_news) January 28, 2017

Four more bodies of army soldiers were recovered on Friday from avalanches hit Jammu and Kashmir's Gurez sector. Ten Army soldiers were killed when two avalanches struck an Army post and a patrol in Gurez sector on Wednesday.

Also read: Kashmir avalanche: Soldiers' remains to be sent to their native places after weather clears

Also read: J&K avalanche: Deceased soldier Devendra Soni was to go on leave, says family

Rescue operations were launched and seven soldiers including a Junior Commissioned Officer were saved, the army official said. While seven personnel were rescued alive by the teams, the bodies of 10 soldiers were recovered on Thursday.

Know more: J-K: Gurez sector Avalanche death toll rises over 20, 15 army personnel among dead

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New Delhi:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that life of a NCC cadet is beyond the uniform, the parade and the camps as it provides a sense of mission, while addressing a rally in New Delhi.

The NCC experience offers a glimpse of India, its strength and its diversity, he said. Stressing on unity as cornerstone of Indias strength, Modi said, world wonders how Indians are bound by unity despite so many regions, over 100 languages, 1,500 dialects, and different customs and food habits among others. It is our country's strength, Modi added.

He underlined the fact that emperors, rulers, governments do not make a nation, but a nation is made by its citizens, youth, farmers, scholars, scientists, workforce, and saints.

Not only this, Prime Minister appreciated the role of National Cadets Corps (NCC) in furthering the cause of cleanliness. He also called for continuing the movement towards digital transactions.

ALSO READ | PM at NCC officers rally: Citizens, youth, farmers, scholars, scientists, shramiks, saints make a nation

Exhorting youngsters at the rally for downloading BHIM app, PM Modi urged the NCC cadets to educate those around them about digital payments.

Money saved on printing of notes, transportation and ATMs among others could be used for the betterment of the poor, the Prime Minister added.

With PTI Inputs

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New Delhi:

Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi addresses rally in Jalalabad on Saturday. Rahul Gandhi will also campaign in Budhlada and Dhuri in Punjab on Saturday. Rahul will also meet industrialists in Ludhiana.

Earlier, Rahul Gandhis programme for January 29 was rescheduled to February 2, the last day for electioneering in Punjab.

Rahul Gandhi addressed rally at Majitha in Punjab on Friday. Rahul visited Majithia Assembly constituency on Jan 27 to address the Election rally in favour of Congress candidate Sukhjinder Raj Singh Majithia.

Here are the live updates from Rahul Gandhis speech:

# Let us work, we will all change Punjab

# Have you ever seen rich standing in line during demonetisation

# Modi and Kejriwal made false promises

# Congress party belongs to poor, labourers and weak section of society

# Employment can again be created in Punjab

# Congress Party will not make false promise

# Amarinder Singh will change the present state of Punjab

# Contrary to one man rule, we emphasise that every one in Congress rule

# Whatever we promise,we fulfill

# I raised the issue of drugs in Punjab first, AAP followed

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New Delhi:

Former Union finance minister P. Chaidambaram said on Saturday that there was no evidence that majority of the Jan Dhan accounts were used for money laundering post-currency withdrawal.

Despite his apparent opposition against demonetisation, Chidambaram said, Evidences do not point out that there was wholesale use of Jan Dhan accounts for money laundering purposes. Nearly 25 per cent of the JanDhan accounts were having zero balances and in the remaining, the average balance was Rs 27,000.

Only a small number of such accounts could have been used for money laundering, he said at Kolkata Literary Meet.

He also alleged that when former RBI governor Raghuram Rajan sent a five-page note to Prime Minister Narendra Modi opposing demonetisation, he was shown door.

The three most important officials of the Finance Ministry--the finance secretary, banking secretary and the chief economic adviser, had not spoken a word in the last 70 days. What does that prove? Either they were not consulted, or if consulted, they disagreed, Chidambaram raised the query.

Not only this, he also drew attention towards the major implications of demonetisation on MSME sector and GDP growth.

Dispelling the notion that cash crunch is now eased, Chidambaram saying that, The cash crunch is not easing. It may ease in the metropolitan cities, but in distant areas, 40 per cent of the ATMs do not have cash.

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Ferozepur:

Hours after Rahul Gandhi announced Amarinder Singh as the Congresss chief ministerial face in Punjab, the partys state unit chief challenged Arvind Kejriwal to name AAPs CM candidate to prove it is sincere about the welfare of the people in the state.

Addressing public rallies in Ferozepur Rural and Guru Har Sahai, Amarinder also questioned the credibility of Aam Aadmi Party to govern a state for which it is a complete outsider.

He flayed Kejriwals continued attempts to make a back-door entry to grab the chief ministerial post in Punjab without contesting the polls.

Pointing out that all other major political parties in the fray has named their chief ministerial faces, Amarinder said there was enough evidence to indicate that Kejriwal himself was eying the top post in the state despite his total disconnect with Punjabs people and their concerns.

Setting at rest speculation, Rahul Gandhi on Friday addressing a poll meeting at Majitha in Amritsar district, announced that Amarinder Singh will be the partys chief ministerial face in the high-stakes Assembly polls.

Despite being asked to name the partys chief ministerial candidate and clarify stand on vital issues such as SYL, he said, Kejriwal continues to maintain a stoic silence, clearly indicated a nefarious design on his part.

Kejriwals adamant refusal to name a Punjabi chief ministerial candidate and to clarify on the AAP candidate for deputy CM's post suggests that he is interested in taking over the coveted post, as was in fact publicly mentioned by his own party leader recently, Amarinder said.

The PPCC chief claimed that Kejriwal was furthering his personal interests at the cost of thePunjabs people, who cannot not afford to experiment with outsiders at a critical juncture when the state needed an experienced leadership with roots in Punjab and an understanding of its problems.

AAP?s total disconnect with Punjab is evident from the fact that it is bringing in thousands of people from other states to steer its electioneering, Amarinder said.

He further said Kejriwal himself as a Haryanvi could not be expected to stand by Punjab on issues of SYL, Chandigarh and Punjabi language, which had been simmering between Haryana and Punjab for decades.

Amarinder said there was no difference between the Akalis and AAP, with both only interested in promoting their vested interests by looting Punjab and its people.

Lambasting the ruling Badals for allegedly destroying the states economy and now trying to divide the people through communal polarisation, Amarinder said he has vowed to give a solid thrashing to Parkash Singh Badal in Lambi, where he has chosen to contest only to teach the Badals a lesson.

Expressing concern over the spate of farmer suicides in the state, Amarinder reiterated his promise to waive off all farm debts if Congress comes to power.

He also reiterated his promise of one job per family and revival of industry to wean the youth away from drugs and bring Punjab back on the track of development.

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Chandigarh :

Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhias programme for January 29 has been rescheduled to February 2, the last day for electioneering in Punjab.

aThe change in programme has been necessitated by some pressing engagements in poll-bound Uttar Pradesh,a a party release said in Chandigarh on Friday night.

Rahul will now address his joint rally with Punjab Congress President and partyas chief ministerial candidate Amarinder Singh in Lambi, as well as Gidderbaha, on February 2, instead of January 29.

Day 2 in Punjab. Looking forward to public meetings today in Jalalabad, Dhuri & Phillaur a Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) January 28, 2017

Amarinder is taking on Akali stalwart and Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal in his home turf of Lambi in what he has termed the agrandfather of all battlesa.

On Saturday, Rahul is scheduled to address a public rally in Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Badalas constituency of Jalalabad.

He will also address public meetings in Dhuri and Phillaur. However, his scheduled meeting tomorrow evening with Ludhiana traders and businessman has been cancelled due to the change in his programme. A

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New Delhi:

The new medical board submitted its report on Sunanda Pushkars death on Friday. It said that the cause of her death is inconclusive. The report was given to Delhi Police's SIT.

This board was constituted in March 2016. It was set up on instructions of director general health services. It was formed when then Commissioner of Police BS Bassi said AIIMS had failed to reach conclusion.

The new medical board consisted of doctors from Chandigarh, Pudducherry and Delhi.

AIIMS autopsy department also could not find the reason behind Sunanda's death in November 15, FBI had said Sunanda's death is unnatural but ruled out radioactive poisoning.

However, a court in US had asked authorities to expedite the retrieving of Sunandas BBM chars. SIT had sent a letter of rogatory through a Delhi court. Sunanda's BBM chats were found deleted.

Gujarat Forensic Investigation of Crime and Scientific Services is about to submit report of Sunanda's laptop.

Sunanda was found dead under mysterious circumstances on January 17. A year later, a murder case was registered.

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Lucknow:

Bhartiya Janta Party President Amit Shah on Saturday released 'Lok Kalyan Sankalp Patr 2017 - partys manifesto for Uttar Pradesh Assembly Elections 2017.



The feedback from ground workers has given me confidence that BJP will win in UP with two-thirds majority, Amit Shah said before releasing the party manifesto.



Shah urged people to give BJP a chance to bring the state back from the label of Bimaru state and push it towards development.

Here are the highlights of the BJPs UP manifesto Lok Kalyan Sankalp Patr 2017: (Read full story here)



#Manifesto 'Lok Kalyan Sankalp Patr 2017' has been divided into nine parts including agriculture, women safety, health, employment.



#Agriculture: Loan at zero per cent interest; advance checks for sugar crops at the Mandi;, crop insurance; 100 per cent procurement of rice crop; additional funds under Mukhyamantri Krishi Yojna; new Amul-like projects to bring about White Revolution; ban on illegal slaughter houses,



#Law and order: Posting on 1.5 lakh vacant spots in UP Police; administrative accountability of migration due to communal violence; Police response time to be reduced to 15 mins across the state; anti-bhoomi mafia task force to be set-up,



#Unemployment: 70 lakh jobs to be created in next 5 years; Grade 3 and Grade 4 hiring only on basis of written test; 905 jobs to be reserved for local youths; additional funds for start-ups,



#Education: Free education till graduation for girls, till class 12 for boys; laptops along with 1 GB free internet; free wi-fi hot spots across state; Rs 500 cr Baba Ambedkar education scholarship fund,



#Poverty: Rs 2lakh life insurance, Rs 6lakh home loan for poor families; 24 hours electricity; first 100 electricity units will be given at just Rs 3; free LPG gas connections; piped CNG gas connections in urban areas,



#Infrastructure: Expansion of Lucknow and Noida metro; New airports to be created to boost tourism; new helicopter services to be added; Kanpur, Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Allahabad metro projects to be started immediately; 6 IT parks to be set-up,



#Women safety: Anti-Romeo dals, widow pension schemes boost, new women battalions, new women-only police stations in every district,



#Health: 25 new medical colleges and super speciality hospitals to be set up; Six new AIIMs hospitals to be set up,#Triple Talaq: Request Mulsim women to share their stand on the matter and settle it,



#Ram Mandir: BJP, if elected, will fulfil the promise of building a Ram Mandir on Ram Janambhumi in a constitutional manner, said Amit Shah.

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New Delhi:

BJP leader Yogi Adityanath on Saturday made it clear that Hindu Yuva Vahini is a non-political organisation and it is having nationalist mission. Yogi Adityanath also said that Hindu Yuva Vahini members support Bhartiya Janata Party.

Yogi Adityanath made this statement after there were reports that Hindu Yuva Vahini is going to contest Assembly election in Uttar Pradesh. There were reports that Hindu Yuva Vahini is going to field its candidates in election.

Earlier, there were reports that Hindu Yuva Vahini (HYV) released its first list of six candidates from Kushinagar and Maharajganj districts.

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New Delhi:

Researchers have found out the cause behind largest volcanic eruptions that occurred 73,000 years ago. At that time, huge volumes of volcanic ash were ejected into the atmosphere and also rained that covered enormous areas in India and Indonesia.

Geochemical clues inside volcanic quartz crystals were helpful while finding the secret behind the volcanic eruptions.

The deadly volcanoes on earth are called supervolcanoes. These are capable of producing cataclysmic eruptions that destroy huge regions and also create global cooling in the overall climate.

Toba, the Indonesian supervolcano, had one of these eruptions approximately 73,000 years ago and at that time, 2,800 cubic kilometres of volcanic ash was thrown into the atmosphere and rained down covering many areas in Indonesia and India.

Scientists have always discussed as to how this much volume of magma is generated and what makes this magma erupt in the explosive way.

Well, a team of researchers at Uppsala University in Sweden, together with international colleagues, have found out fascinating clues that are hidden inside millimetre-sized crystals in volcanic ash and rock.

Quartz crystals that grow in the magma register chemical and thermodynamical changes in the magmatic system prior to eruption, similar to how tree rings record climate variations, said David Budd from Uppsala University.

When the conditions in the magma change, the crystals respond and produce distinct growth zones that record these changes. The problem is that each tree ring-analogue is only a few micrometres across, which is why they are extremely challenging to analyse in detail, said Budd.

Quartz crystals from Toba were observed by the researchers. They found a distinct change in the isotopic composition towards the outer rim of the crystals. The crystal rims contain a relatively lower proportion of the heavy isotope 18O compared to the lighter 16O.

The low ratio of 18O to 16O contents in the crystal rims indicate that something in the magmatic system changed drastically just before the big eruption, said Frances Deegan from Uppsala University.

The explanation behind these chemical signatures is that the magma melted and integrated to form a rock that is charcterised by a relatively low ratio of 180 to 160.

This rock type also often contains a lot of water, which may be released into the magma, producing steam, and thereby an increased gas pressure inside the magma chamber.

This rapidly increased gas pressure eventually allowed the magma to rupture the overlying crust, and send thousands of cubic kilometres of magma into the atmosphere, Deegan added.

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New Delhi:

Chinese New Year or in another word the Lunar New Year is being celebrated across the globe. This year the new year begins on Saturday 28,2017.

You may be thinking why does it fall at this time of the year so when a new moon is seen the lunar new year begins.



Gregorian" calendar which is traditionally used in the UK is different from this one as it totally depends on the moon.Every year the Chinese New Year is celebrated on different dates, but it will fall sometime between 21 January and 20 February.

According to the reports in 2018, the new year will start on 16 February.

What is Chinese New Year?

# Chinese New Year is also known as the Spring Festival.

# It is one of the most important occasions in the Chinese calendar.

# In Chinese tradition, each year is named after one of twelve animals, which feature in the Chinese zodiac.

# 2016 was the year of the monkey, while 2017 will be the year ofA rooster.

# The next time it will be the year of the rooster is 2029, as this is in 12 years' time.

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New Delhi:

US President Donald Trump has told British Prime Minister Theresa that he believes Brexit will be a "wonderful thing" for Britain which will open the door to new trade deals as the two leaders held hands at the White House.

British Prime Minister Theresa May is the first foreign leader to meet US President Donald Trump. In a joint press conference at the White House, Mr Trump said: "Great days lie ahead for our two peoples and our two countries. "On behalf of our nation, I thank you for joining us here today as a really great honour." TMrs May said: "Thank you for inviting me so soon after your inauguration and I'm delighted to be able to congratulate you on what was a stunning election victory.

"And, as you say, the invitation is an indication of the strength and importance of the special relationship that exists between our two countries, a relationship based on the bonds of history, of family, kinship and common interests.

"And in a further sign of the importance of that relationship I have today been able to convey Her Majesty the Queen's hope that President Trump and the First Lady would pay a state visit to the United Kingdom later this year and I'm delighted that the president has accepted that invitation."

Mrs May made a point of emphasising that during their talks, Mr Trump had given strong backing to Nato, an alliance that the president has previously called obsolete.

The president was asked if he was considering lifting US sanctions against Russia ahead of an expected Saturday phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Mr Trump was noncommittal, saying "We'll see what happens. As far as the sanctions, very early to be talking about that."Challenged about his views on torture, Russia, banning Muslims and punishment for abortion by BBC political editor Laura Kuenssberg,Mr Trump joked to Mrs May: "This was your choice of a question. There goes that relationship."

He insisted that he would allow decisions to be made on the use of torture by his defence secretary, James Mattis - who has different views on the issue.

The president tweeted after the press conference:

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Tehran:

Iranians and Iraqis planning to fly to the United States were prevented from boarding on Saturday after US President Donald Trumps order to restrict arrivals from seven Muslim countries.



Iran slammed the insulting ban and said it would reciprocate.



On Friday, Trump signed a sweeping executive order to suspend the arrival of refugees and impose tough new controls on travellers from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Syria and Yemen. His move sparked widespread international criticism.



Travellers from the Middle East were stopped from boarding US-bound planes.Some who were already in the air when Trump signed the executive order were detained on arrival, the New York Times reported.



In The Netherlands, the Dutch flag carrier KLM said it had stopped seven passengers from boarding its flights, five of whom it had been able to contact before departure. The identities of the seven, their countries of origin and destinations were not given.



We would have liked to have had them fly with us, but it would not have made much sense because they would have been denied entry to the United States, KLM spokesman Manel Vrijenhoek told AFP.



In Tehran, two travel agencies told AFP they had been instructed by Etihad Airways, Emirates and Turkish Airlines not to sell US tickets or allow Iranians holding American visas to board US-bound flights.



An Iranian studying in California said she could not now return because her ticket had been cancelled under the new restrictions.



I had a ticket for Turkish Airlines on February 4, but it has been cancelled, the girl, who did not wish to be identified, told AFP in Tehran.



Iranian President Hassan Rouhani did not comment directly on the ban today, but criticised Trump, saying that now was not the time to build walls between nations.



Irans foreign ministry said it would respond in kind after the insulting decision of the United States concerning Iranian nationals until the measure is lifted.



It said the decision was illegal, illogical and contrary to international rules.



More than a million Iranians live in the United States.



In Khartoum, the Sudanese foreign ministry expressed its regret at the US ban.



Today in Egypt, a country not included in the new restrictions, an Iraqi couple and their two children were told they could not board an EgyptAir flight from Cairo to New York.



Airport officials said the four Iraqis all had American visas.



The New York Times reported that two Iraqi refugees were detained on arriving at New Yorks John F Kennedy airport hours after Trump signed the order.

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New York:

Noble Prize Winner Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani student activist, said she was "heartbroken" by Donald Trump's order on refugees and urged the US president not to abandon the world's "most defenceless."

"I am heartbroken that today President Trump is closing the door on children, mothers and fathers fleeing violence and war," said the 19-year-old, shot in the head by the Taliban in 2012 after publicly advocating education for girls in her home country.

"In this time of uncertainty and unrest around the world, I ask President Trump not to turn his back on the world's most defenceless children and families," she added in a statement just moments after Trump signed the decree.

Yousafzai is the youngest ever recipient of the NobelPeace Prize, which she shared in 2014 with India's Kailash Satyarthi, a fellow education activist.

Now living in England, she made a remarkable recovery after undergoing medical treatment and has travelled the world as a campaigner.

"I am heartbroken that America is turning its back on a proud history of welcoming refugees and immigrants -- the people who helped build your country, ready to work hard in exchange for a fair chance at a new life," she said.

The decree signed by Trump was entitled: "Protection of the nation from foreign terrorist entry into the United States."

The White House did not immediately make the wording public, but a draft text leaked to US media said it would suspend the entire US refugee resettlement program for at least 120 days while tough new vetting rules are established.

In addition, it specifically bars Syrian refugees from the United States indefinitely, or until Trump decides that they no longer pose a threat.

"I am heartbroken that Syrian refugee children, who have suffered through six years of war by no fault of their own, are singled out for discrimination," said Yousafzai.

The decree signed by Trump was entitled: "Protection of the nation from foreign terrorist entry into the UnitedStates."

The White House did not immediately make the wording public, but a draft text leaked to US media said it would suspend the entire US refugee resettlement program for at least 120 days while tough new vetting rules are established.

"I am heartbroken that Syrian refugee children, who have suffered through six years of war by no fault of their own, are singled out for discrimination," said Yousafzai.

She named a friend who had fled wars in Somalia, Yemen and Egypt to study in the United States, where she had hoped to be reunited with her sister.

"Today her hope of being reunited with her precious sister dims," she said.



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Geneva:

The United Nations on Saturday urged US President Donald Trump to continue his countrys long tradition of welcoming refugees and to ensure their equal treatment, regardless of race, nationality or religion.

The appeal came in a joint statement from the UN refugee agency, UNHCR, and the International Organization for Migration in reaction to Trumps sweeping new executive order on Friday suspending refugee arrivals and imposing tough controls for travelers from seven Muslim countries.

The agencies, which offer frontline assistance to millions of would-be migrants and asylum seekers, hailed the US resettlement programme as one of the most important in the world.

The longstanding policy has offered a double win: first by rescuing some of the most vulnerable people in the world, and second by enabling them to enrich their new societies. The contribution of refugees and migrants to their new homes worldwide has been overwhelmingly positive.

ALSO READ | Google forced to order its travelling staff to return to America after Trumps immigration policy

The IOM and the UNHCR hope that the US will continue its strong leadership role and long tradition of protecting those who are fleeing conflict and persecution, the statement said.

We strongly believe that refugees should receive equal treatment for protection and assistance, and opportunities for resettlement, regardless of their religion, nationality or race.

Trumps decree suspends the entire US refugee resettlement program for at least 120 days while tough new vetting rules are established to confirm asylum seekers do not pose a security threat.

In addition, it specifically bars Syrian refugees from the United States indefinitely, or until the president himself decides that they no longer pose a threat.

And it slaps 90-day bans on the issuance of visas for migrants and visitors from seven mainly-Muslim countries: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
Washington :

President Donald Trump signed an executive order which establishes new vetting measures to limit the flow of refugees and "keep radicalIslamic terrorists out of the US".

"I'm establishing new vetting measures to keep radicalIslamic terrorists out of the United States of America. We don't want them here," Trump said after he signed the executive order in his first visit to the Pentagon, a week after he was sworn in as the President.

"We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas.We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people," Trump said.

Also Read: US President Donald Trump signs order promising 'great rebuilding' of armed forces

"We will never forget the lessons of 9/11 nor the heroes who lost at the Pentagon. They were the best of us. We will honour them not only with our words, but with our actions, and that's what we're doing today," said Trump flanked with the new Defense Secretary Gen (rtd) James Mattis and the VicePresident Mike Pence.

The executive order "Protection of The Nation FromForeign Terrorist Entry Into The United States" notes that the steps taken by the US in the aftermath of 9/11 has not been able to deter terrorists from entering the country.

Also Read: Nobel Peace laureate Malala Yousafzai 'heartbroken' by Donald Trump's order on refugees

"Numerous foreign-born individuals have been convicted or implicated in terrorism-related crimes since September 11, 2001, including foreign nationals who entered the US after receiving visitor, student, or employment visas, or who entered through the US refugee resettlement program," it said.

Deteriorating conditions in certain countries due to war, strife, disaster, and civil unrest increase the likelihood that terrorists will use any means possible to enter the US, the executive order said.

The US must be vigilant during the visa-issuance process to ensure that those approved for admission do not intend to harm Americans and that they have no ties to terrorism, it said.

"In order to protect Americans, the US must ensure that those admitted to this country do not bear hostile attitudes toward it and its founding principles," the executive order said adding that the US cannot, and should not, admit those who do not support the Constitution, or those who would place violent ideologies over American law.

In addition, the US should not admit those who engage in acts of bigotry or hatred (including "honour" killings, other forms of violence against women, or the persecution of those who practice religions different from their own) or those who would oppress Americans of any race, gender, or sexual orientation, it said.

The executive order suspends the US Refugee AdmissionsProgramme for 120 days until it is reinstated "only for nationals of countries for whom" members of Trump's Cabinet deems can be properly vetted.

The order also prevents all persons from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia or Yemen from entering the country for 30 days.

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
Two Floridian ports changed plans on inking deals with the Cuban government after Florida Gov. Rick Scott said he would recommend restricting state funds for ports that work with Cuba.



Port Everglades and the Port of Palm Beach changed plans on inking deals with the Cuban government after Florida Gov. Rick Scott on Wednesday threatened to withdraw support to ports if they work with the Caribbean island nation.

The controversy erupted as two containers of charcoal from Cuba, the first commercial shipment imported from the island in 50 years, arrived at Port Everglades Tuesday aboard Crowley Maritimes K Storm.

In response to the two ports plans to each sign agreements with Cubas National Port Administration, Gov. Scott said on Twitter Wednesday hes disappointed some Florida ports would enter into any agreement with Cuban dictatorship. I will recommend restricting state funds for ports that work with Cuba in my budget. We cannot condone Raul Castros oppressive behavior. There are serious concerns about security and human rights. We cannot condone a brutal dictatorship in Cuba.

In response to a Port Everglades statement that the Crowley shipment was historical, Florida Lieutenant Governor Carlos Lopez-Cantera waded into the controversy, posting on Twitter, Those imports are a product of forced labor that generates revenue for a brutal dictatorship.

Port Everglades arranged to give officials from Cuba a tour of the port and to host a business panel presentation on Thursday to discuss trade opportunities with Cuba. In conjunction with the seminar, the port had planned to sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Cubas National Port Administration that would allow it to exchange information. The port has similar MOUs with foreign ports and agencies like the Panama Canal Authority.

Port Everglades CEO and Port Director Steve M. Cernak said he had spoken to the governors office in advance of the meeting and did not think the MOU would present a problem. However, after the governors statements, Cubas National Port Administration and Port Everglades deferred the MOU, but went forward with the meeting that allowed local businesses and the Cubans to hold discussions.

The Cuban delegation also visited the Port of Palm Beach on Friday to meet with local businesses. However, the Port of Palm Beach also agreed to Gov. Scotts request that Florida ports stop short of signing any formal economic development MOUs.

Port Everglades is owned by Broward County, and as a landlord port, does not do any business directly with Cuba.

Gov. Scott has been supportive of ports in Florida, and Cernak said the port is expecting $125 million in support from the state over the next five years as it deepens and widens its channels, expands a turning basin and makes improvements to terminals  including the addition of cranes to handle larger ships. The cranes will have low profile designs because the port is near the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.

Gov. Scotts office did not immediately, provide information beyond the statements that he and his lieutenant governor posted on Twitter, but Cernak said his office indicated he was not seeking to interfere with the decisions of private businesses that are tenants of the port.

Crowley described the two containers of charcoal that arrived on Tuesday as an artisanal product that will reportedly be used in restaurant ovens to make pizzas or other dishes.

The Miami Herald reported the charcoal is made with Cuban Marabu, an invasive woody species from Africa that is considered a nuisance on the island.

The newspaper and the Associated Press reported that the charcoal is produced by private worker-owned cooperatives, which are legal under a trade deal that loosened a 55-year trade embargo on exports from Cuba.

Crowley Vice President of Government and Cuba Services Jay Brickman noted that while the import of charcoal from Cuba is new, Crowley has carried permitted U.S. products  agricultural commodities, including frozen poultry, medicine and medical devices  to be shipped to Cuba since 2001. Crowley has also moved equipment for major events and projects, such as sporting events and concerts.

Since 2001, he said Crowleys liner and logistics teams have been operating within the framework of regulations of both the U.S. and Cuban governments to transport U.S. exports to the island. Crowley was the first U.S. carrier to obtain a license from the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the U.S. Department of the Treasury to provide regularly scheduled common carrier services for licensed cargo from the United States to the Republic of Cuba.

Florida Ports Council President and CEO Doug Wheeler said, We have a long-standing policy on trade with Cuba: Florida ports are currently the main conduit for the shipping of consumer goods to nations in the Caribbean Basin, and we continuously monitor new trade opportunities. However, serious political and social challenges need to be addressed before Florida can participate in free and open trade with Cuba.

Cruise companies are ramping up service to Cuba. A subsidiary of Carnival Cruises called Fathom began offering cruises to Cuba last year, and on Friday, a cruise ship operated by Pearl Seas Cruises returned from a trip to Cuba. Royal Caribbean plans to start cruises from Miami and Tampa to Cuba later this year, and Viking Ocean Cruises has also scheduled cruises from Miami that include stops in Cuba, Mexico and Belize.
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Connecticut has seen a spike in incidents of hate speech - such as distributing racist flyers or posting racist signs - since Novembers presidential election, but has bucked a similar trend nationwide in actual hate crimes.

Recognizing the difference between the two is something that local police departments have been grappling with in the runup to and since the election of President Donald Trump.

The Anti-Defamation League distinguishes between hate crimes  such as bomb threats, vandalism and actual violence against another person based on their race, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation or gender identity  and hate incidents, which involve sending messages that are objectionable but protected by the First Amendment.

Weve seen a pretty disturbing amount of hate incidents than we normally see in the past six months, said Andy Friedland, assistant director of the Anti-Defamation Leagues Connecticut office.

One recent incident took place Jan. 20, when a man waving a Trump campaign sign shouted an obscenity at minority students in a Danbury High School parking lot.

Friedland said he does not believe the number of hateful people has increased, but that the divisive presidential campaign made some hate groups and hateful individuals think it is acceptable to become more vocal.

These groups felt it was safer to come out of the shadows, Friedland said.

The Southern Poverty Law Center published a report Nov. 29 saying nearly 900 hate crimes occurred across the country in the 10 days after the presidential election. The group called this a national outbreak of hate, as white supremacists celebrate Donald Trumps victory.

During that same period, police received reports of swastikas painted on a Ridgefield playground and a home in Danbury, but officials said the number of such incidents wasnt noticeably higher than in recent years.

Danbury Lt. Chris Carroccio said police investigated 10 reported hate incidents in 2016, including two in November, and one so far this year. He said the incidents ranged from burning a rainbow flag at a church to yelling racial slurs during an assault.

But not all hateful actions are crimes, Friedland said.

There are many ways to speak up in hateful ways that are protected by the Constitution, Friedland said.

Lt. Aaron Bahamonde, of the Newtown Police Department, agreed. Its one thing to say something generally hateful at a rally, but another thing to say it directly to someone while standing in their yard.

Sgt. Eric Haglund, a public information officer for State Police, said law enforcement has to look at the issue as a whole to determine what is protected and what crosses the line to illegality.

At the end of the day, you look at the totality of the circumstances and weigh that against (First) Amendment concerns, he said.

Redding Police Chief Doug Fuchs said some cases are clear-cut, such as painting a swastika on a synagogue, though the symbol itself is not illegal and could be protected under the First Amendment in other cases.

Emotionally, we would all like to make it a hate crime, but you have to balance it with free speech, Fuchs said.

Prosecuting hate crimes is difficult, because the intent of the perpetrator is critical.

It is a fairly difficult law to successfully enforce because you have to get into the mind of the offender, Fuchs said. You have to have an understanding of why the person did what they did, and thats always going to be a challenge.

Dep. Chief States Attorney Len Boyle said evidence of motivation is important but not always required in criminal cases, but with a hate crime the prosecutor has to prove the crime was committed because of bigotry or bias.

The statutes create a unique challenge because you have to prove the motivation, Boyle said.

Another challenge is that hate crimes are often committed anonymously and unseen, leaving the police with no witnesses to interview. Nor is there a specific victim to interview when, for example, a swastika is painted on a stop sign, Bahamonde said.

According to the states report on bias crimes in 2015, the most recent figures published, the offender was unknown in 40 of the 93 incidents reported.

The most common bias crime reported in the state is intimidation, although many local police departments report that vandalism is the most common offense.

If a crime is proven to be a hate crime, it elevates the seriousness of the offense, Boyle said.

For example, he said, if a person punches someone and causes minor injuries, the usual charge is third-degree assault, a misdemeanor with a maximum sentence of one year. But if it is proven the assailant punched the victim out of bias or bigotry, the offense is considered a Class D Felony and carries a maximum sentence of five years.

Officers receive training every three years as part of their certification, and are regularly updated on changes in the law, including that regarding hate crimes.

Friedland said Connecticut has strong laws against hate crimes and is an example for other states. He said the ADL appreciates how seriously law enforcement at the local, state and federal levels enforce the law.

Many officials stressed their zero tolerance for hate crimes.

We have a mixed culture of police officers that represent a wide community, Bahamonde said. None of us are going to allow bigotry in our town.

kkoerting@newstimes.com; 203-731-3345
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DANBURY - Officer Michelle Stabile vividly remembers the day she was asked to check on the well-being of an emotionally disturbed man, and the encounter suddenly became violent.

At one point he had his hands around my neck, said Stabile, who has been a Danbury police officer for nearly five years. And I remember thinking to myself, I dont want the headline to be that I harmed an unarmed black man. 

The officers awareness of public perceptions about police and race is emblematic of a larger law enforcement culture in greater Danbury that not only values the art of de-escalating confrontations, but prides itself on preventing problems before they start - particularly in communities of color.

That is why city police here and in surrounding towns take exception to a recent national survey of police officers who say the job is riskier and more tension-filled today because of high-profile encounters between police and black citizens.

The survey, released earlier this month, showed that 86 percent of officers from large police departments believe their job has become more difficult as the result of high-profile deaths of black Americans during police encounters - such as the 2014 shooting death of a young black man by a white police officer in Ferguson, Mo.

The survey of 7,900 officers by the Pew Research Center, published earlier this month, found that:

93 percent of say they are more concerned than before about their safety.

76 percent say they are more reluctant to use force.

75 percent say tensions are aggravated between police and black citizens.

72 say they are more reluctant to stop and question a suspicious person.

The survey was conducted to see how the national debate about police conduct in communities of color has affected police work and what police encounter in the streets today.

Fatal encounters between police and black men in places such as New York City, Baltimore and South Carolina have led not only to high-profile protests and the birth of activist movements such as Black Lives Matter, but also to retaliatory shootings of police, such as the ambush that killed five officers in Dallas in July.

But in interviews last week at Danbury police headquarters, officers and administrators clearly believe their relationship with the citys diverse communities is solid because of decades of commitment to community policing, which emphasizes citizen dialogue and other initiatives to earn the cooperation and respect of neighborhoods.

I would say, No, it hasnt gotten harder, said Danbury police officer John Dickinson, one of nine officers who discussed the Pew survey with The News-Times last week.

When Ferguson broke, it was very difficult, Dickinson said. As a white officer I figured, This is a difficult position for me to be in right now, but in fact it was the opposite. It almost seemed like the black community here was more respectful.

Danbury Chief Patrick Ridenhour said many police departments at one time have put community policing programs in place to engender trust between neighborhoods and law enforcement, but most departments tend to drop such initiatives after a time, only to take them back up after a crisis.

But in greater Danbury and much of Connecticut, departments have remained invested in them, he said.

Redding police Chief Douglas Fuchs agreed.

None of us who wear a uniform want to go out there and be at odds with the people we are sworn to protect, Fuchs said. When speaking about this geographical area around Danbury, we do enjoy a great relationship with residents - and we know as chiefs that sending our people into communities that feel we are doing right by them puts our officers in much better stead when they get out of their cruisers.

The 95-page Pew police survey covers a range of topics from police culture and police perceptions about the communities they serve to ways police views compare and contrast with the publics. It also documents where police are getting the most training and hints at practices police can adopt to improve.

For example, the survey found that 68 percent of officials had not spent so much as 30 continuous minutes walking their beat within the last 30 days.

We are trying to encourage our officers to get out more and do more walking and talking in the community, says John Salvatore, chief of the Monroe Police Department, and the president of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association. We are trying to do more Coffee-With-a-Cop events, and the cities are trying to get back to more foot patrol.

Danbury is unique

While city officers find little in the Pew survey that reflects the nature of the job they love in Danbury, the chief acknowledged that the wave of retaliatory shootings of police is troubling.

They are being attacked going to lunch or in their cruiser writing a report, Ridenhour said. A lot of the time they are being attacked by people outside their jurisdiction. I am concerned about my officers safety as a result of some of these incidents.

Even so, these are not the worst times police veterans can remember. For Officer Patricia Gillotti, Capt. Daniel Mulvey, Lt. Peter Gantert and Lt. Matt McNally, the race riots at Danbury High School in the 1970s were worse for police.

It was scary, McNally said. There was a lot of tension between the black community and the white community and it molded peoples perceptions; we were coming out of the Civil Rights movement.

But over the last generation, Danbury has become an easier place to embrace diversity, longtime officers agreed.

Danbury is an American melting pot, Gantert said. This is a diverse community with a very low crime rate and very few problems with our groups of ethnicities.

The city is consistently ranked as having one of the lowest crime rates in the state. Last year, Danbury was ranked one of the most diverse cities in the nation. Danbury is also the fastest-growing city in Connecticut, owing largely to immigration.

Officers such as Deputy Chief Shaun McColgan and police Officer Hector Rodriguez, who started their careers in New York City, agree that Danbury is unique.

In New York City sometimes they will test you to see how you will react - they try to ambush you, you know, and have their cell phones ready, Rodriguez said. When I moved here, it was amazing to see on Thanksgiving the community brings food here. It is nice to be appreciated by the community.

The Pew survey focuses on officers who work for departments with 100 police officers or more, because larger police departments have been at the center of recent national conversations about police and race.

Danbury with its 155 officers is the only large department in the region.

The police survey also found that:

96 percent are committed to making their departments successful.

84 percent believe they should intervene if a fellow officer is using unnecessary force.

79 percent have been thanked by a community member in the last month.

70 percent said they share the same beliefs and values with some or most of the people in neighborhoods they serve.

67 percent have been verbally abused by a community member in the last month.

58 percent said their work almost always makes them proud.

56 percent said they have become more callous.

56 percent said that in certain neighborhoods, an aggressive approach is more effective than a courteous approach.

33 percent have physically struggled with a suspect.

27 percent have fired their service weapon on the job.

Ninety-nine-point-nine percent of the time we are doing the right thing for the right reason, Fuchs said. The very small minority of occasions when we dont, we like to think we are able to recognize those incidents, take corrective actions, retrain as needed and continue the really the good relationship we have with our community.

The survey also compared and contrasted police views with those of the public.

Among the highlights:

86 percent of police said the public does not understand the real dangers of police work, 83 percent of the public said they do understand those dangers.

67 percent of police oppose a ban on assault-style weapons, 64 percent of the public favors such a ban.

66 percent of police support body cameras, 93 percent of the public supports body cameras.
Melania Trump's first glossy magazine cover as first lady is on Vanity Fair Mexico - but the timing (just as her husband's border-wall plans are souring the U.S. relationship with Mexico) and the pose (FLOTUS is pictured twirling a string of diamonds as if they were spaghetti) are just a little . . . well, off.

The cover promises a look at the glamorous first lady's family, how she deals with her husband and how she plans to become the new Jackie Kennedy. The photo shoot and the accompanying interview are actually recycled content - they originally ran in sister (or is it brother?) publication GQ last year.
When United Airlines announced that early this year it would start offering a "basic economy" class (Delta and American have made similar announcements), the option was an obvious attempt to tap into a different market: budget airline passengers.

The deal? In exchange for low-cost fares, the carrier asks customers to give up frills such as pre-select seating and carry-on items other than a purse or a bag.

Related: 10 Ways Competition Helps You Win in Business

Only time will tell if the budget-friendly ticket option provides United some much-needed growth by allowing it to successfully compete with discount airlines. The worst-case scenario: The option might cannibalize United's own higher-priced fares.

And then, of course, the option could come across as just another bid to nickel-and-dime passengers for standard amenities -- but thats a story for a different day.

The message for entrepreneurs in United's move for entrepreneurs is this: Were here to innovate, and the only way to do this is to let competitors push us. The overall message? Free-market economies prosper only because survival of the fittest brings out the best in all of us.

In short, using the competition's moves to drive your own innovation is a lot different from reacting to what the opposition does. After all, winners set the pace -- not the other way around, as with Uniteds reactive new fare class. If you want to stay ahead, its all about keeping the competition in your rearview mirror.

A lot thrown at you

Most entrepreneurs are drowning in information, and monitoring whats going on is easier said than done. Until recently, getting information on competitors could be a huge pain, especially for marketing and product teams, who did all the heavy lifting. Now, you can access online tools to help distinguish the signal from the noise.

Next, once you have the information and the data you need, trying to glean insights from it can be intimidating. Many companies take quarterly deep dives, but thats three months of information to sift through. Wouldnt a better solution be to keep your finger on the pulse with daily tidbits of competitive intelligence?

You know the comings and goings of your industry colleagues. You notice when they veer off the road, stop for gas or blow a tire, and at those points you can learn from their escapades -- without ever feeling the need to react to their every move.

It's competitive insights like those that will provide you the opportunity to outpace the competition.

Related: 3 Enterprise Business Intelligence Trends That Can Benefit Your Business

Take it in -- then dish it out.

Research by Boston Universitys Computer Information Services (CIS) program found that 54 percent of professionals surveyed felt their companies would be more competitive if they used analytics to make decisions. But insights on your competition will do you no good until you know how to use them. The following is often a good place to start:
This is the column I didnt want to write. Realistically, though, I knew Id have to get to it eventually because all through the campaign season the current occupant of the White House talked about how he was going to make Mexico pay for a wall, ban Muslims, and get rid of the illegals. Then, as it seemingly does on a fairly regular basis, Trumps brain went into autocorrect mode, and he changed it to well send Mexico a bill, well let the American Muslims stay, and well get rid of the criminals and figure out the other part later.

Instead of writing this, Id hoped I could keep complaining about those narcissistic, pussy-hat wearing ladies with their shrieking about leaking (Ashley Judd) and their yelling about shelling (Madonna) and their refusal to welcome pro-life sisters into the hormonal fold. I really wanted to keep talking about how offensive they were, especially when you consider that half of the population doesnt give a darn if tampons are taxed.

Alas, it was not to be. Donald Trump decided to go nuclear on immigration with some executive orders that Im betting the conservatives who criticized Obama for his imperial presidency will embrace wholeheartedly. And so, the ladies and their little temper tantrum on the Mall have become irrelevant. I have more important things to worry about.

Its not at all surprising that the newly minted president would start throwing bones to the people who put him in office, and the biggest bone of all looks to be immigration. It was a big part of his campaign rhetoric (or, if you want, policy) and one of the biggest reasons Trump appealed to the Make America Great Again voter. I get it. Believe me, I do.

This month marks 22 years that Ive been legalizing foreigners so they could work, live, love and contribute to  making America great again. Actually, Id say theyve been keeping America great for a very long time. Im sure the first lady would agree with me on that.

But, you say, not every immigrant looks great in a powder blue Ralph Lauren dress and has killer legs. Not every immigrant came in legally and then worked illegally by posing for fashionable art shots. Not every immigrant is going to end up in the White House. Some, you would say, should end up in the Big House.

I agree. Im not pretending that everyone who has come into the country, legally or not, has been an asset. There are very bad apples out there, and they need to be picked, crushed and tossed back to the toxic orchards from whence they originated. We have laws on the books for that already, even though theyre not always implemented as effectively as wed all like. But its not as if America has been holding up a welcome sign to the axe murderers, the drug dealers, the terrorists and the child abusers in the years preceding the Rise of The Donald. His accusations about us coddling criminals amounted to some of the hollowest rhetoric of his campaign, and most of us could see through it. Id wager that even the people who voted for him as the lesser of two evils knew that the country was not filled with a particularly large amount of criminals with accents.

But demonizing the other is quite helpful, and there is nothing like an other who has very little leverage in society. So again, I wasnt surprised when President Trump decided to spend an entire day making good on his campaign promise to Make America Safe Again by issuing executive orders that kick-started that wall, increased the number of Border Patrol, stripped federal funding from so-called sanctuary cities and, most troubling to me, severely limited the admission of refugees to the United States.

The whole idea of The Wall is existentially problematic. Reagan wanted Gorbachev to tear down the Berlin Wall in the most iconic of his speeches. Clearly, there is a difference between a wall built to keep people in, as in Berlin, and a wall aimed to keep other people out, as with Mexico and Central America, but my inner crunchy humanitarian liberal midget has a problem with the imagery.

I also have a problem with the idea of taking money out of cities pockets because they dont cooperate with the federal government, especially when theyre not obligated to. Sanctuary city is one of those sly little terms. Its like reproductive rights, hiding the true nature of the thing. Sanctuary cities do not hide illegal criminals. They simply will not do the federal governments job. You may disagree with that, but there is sound reasoning behind it: If undocumented aliens feel that they are under siege and will be deported if they report crimes to the local police, they will remain silent.

Silence equals more crimes. Remember the whole dont snitch movement? Heres how you say that in Spanish: Callate! In either language, it spells trouble. But if they want to take money away from the cities, go ahead. Its not like were entitled to it, like Planned Parenthood (oh, wait  ). I cant, however, live with the idea that we are going to make it harder for people in hellish situations to come to this country simply because we have a twisted and baseless idea that refugees are terrorists in victims clothing. The statistics do not bear this out, and the vetting that refugees are already forced to undergo is harsher and more comprehensive than anything Trump, with his vast foreign policy experience, could imagine.

Im livid about this particular executive wrinkle because Ive spent the last few weeks in immigration court dealing with refugees. Some were Muslim, a group that appears to be the target of the presidents ire, but most were from Central America. One client witnessed her husbands assassination and was threatened shed be killed if she testified against the shooter. She testified and then fled. Another was a young boy forced to be a drug mule by Salvadoran traffickers. Another was a Guatemalan woman who had been raped by a man who refused to take no for an answer and was raped again when the police laughed and called her a whore.

These are all refugees, President Trump. In another life, your first wife would have been one when the Communists ruled her country. In another life, your current wife would have been one for the same reason. Your second wife was an American, but we all make mistakes. Seriously, though, Im not against you. You wont find me marching with those people from Juntos and other organizations that traffic in hateful comments and personal attacks. I think that persuasion works better than agitprop (especially if you avoid the sexually suggestive knitted headgear).

So here is my attempt to persuade. President Trump, please listen to me. Im not one of the crazies filling the streets to call you names. I think that the attacks on your son are horrific. And I understand that you speak for legions of Americans who are concerned about our national security. But dont punish the refugees. And while youre at it, leave the Dreamers alone. But if you want help getting Rosie, Madonna and Ashley deported, Ill work on that for you.

Pro bono.
Organovo designs and create functional human tissues using our proprietary three-dimensional bioprinting technology. Their goal is to build living human tissues that are proven to function like native tissues. With reproducible 3D tissues that accurately represent human biology, they are enabling ground-breaking therapies by:

Partnering with biopharmaceutical companies and academic medical centers to design, build, and validate more predictive in vitro tissues for disease modeling and toxicology.

Giving researchers something they have never had before  the opportunity to test drugs on functional human tissues before ever administering the drug to a living person; bridging the gulf between preclinical testing and clinical trials.

Creating functional, three-dimensional tissues that can be implanted or delivered into the human body to repair or replace damaged or diseased tissues.

Bioprinting is automated fabrication of a tissue through the spatially controlled deposition of cells and/or cell-containing materials in defined, user-controlled geometric patterns, wherein the resulting multi-cellular tissue is viable, three-dimensional and mimics key aspects of native tissue architecture and / or function. Organovo finished tissues are scaffold free, comprised only of relevant tissue cell types and the extracellular matrix the cells produce

Organovo has advance work on bioprinting skin and liver and just started a partnership for kidneys.

Organovo announced a collaboration with Professor Melissa Little and the Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, The Royal Childrens Hospital, Melbourne, Australia to develop an architecturally correct kidney for potential therapeutic applications. The collaboration has been made possible by a generous gift from the Methuselah Foundation (Methuselah) as part of its ongoing University 3D Bioprinter Program.

Partnerships with world-class institutions can accelerate groundbreaking work in finding cures for critical unmet disease needs and the development of implantable therapeutic tissues, said Keith Murphy, CEO, Organovo. This collaboration with Professor Littles lab is another important step in this direction. With the devoted and ongoing support of the Methuselah Foundation, leading researchers are able to leverage Organovos powerful technology platform to achieve significant breakthroughs.

We have developed an approach for recreating human kidney tissue from stem cells, said Professor Melissa Little, Theme Director of Cell Biology at Murdoch Childrens Research Institute. Using Organovos bioprinter will give us the opportunity to bioprint these cells into a more accurate model of the kidney. While initially important for modelling disease and screening drugs, we hope that this is also the first step towards regenerative medicine for kidney disease. We are very grateful to Organovo and the Methuselah Foundation for this generous support, which will enable us to advance our research with the first Organovo bioprinter in the southern hemisphere.

Under Methuselah Foundations University 3D Bioprinter Program, Methuselah is donating at least $500,000 in direct funding to be divided among several institutions for Organovo bioprinter research projects. This funding will cover budgeted bioprinter costs and key aspects of project execution.
[January 28, 2017] IMPORTANT INVESTOR ALERT: Khang & Khang LLP Announces Securities Class Action Lawsuit against New Oriental Education & Technology Group Inc., and Encourages Investors with Losses to Contact the Firm

Khang & Khang LLP (the "Firm") announces the filing of a class action lawsuit against New Oriental Education & Technology Group Inc. ("New Oriental" or the "Company") (NYSE: EDU). Investors, who purchased or otherwise acquired New Oriental shares between September 27, 2016 and December 1, 2016 inclusive (the "Class Period"), are encouraged to contact the firm prior to the February 13, 2017, also known as the lead plaintiff motion deadline. If you purchased shares of New Oriental during the Class Period, please contact Joon M. Khang, Esquire, of Khang & Khang, 18101 Von Karman Avenue, 3rd Floor, Irvine, CA (News - Alert) 92612, by telephone: (949) 419-3834, or via e-mail at [email protected]. There has been no class certification in this case. Until certification occurs, you are not represented by an attorney. You may choos to take no action and remain a passive class member.



Reuters (News - Alert) published an article on December 2, 2016 revealing that New Oriental has been alleged to have engaged in college application fraud. The article states that "[e]ight former and current New Oriental employeestold Reuters the firms have participated in college application fraud, including forging application essays and teacher recommendations, and falsifying high school transcripts." That day, Reuters disclosed an update mentioning that because its earlier report detailing academic fraud allegations at New Oriental, the American International Recruitment Council ("AIRC") stated that it "will investigate the company in response to the report", and the AIRC's president-elect referred to the allegations as "highly concerning." When this information was disclosed to the investing public, the value of New Oriental stock fell, causing shareholders severe harm.

If you wish to learn more about this lawsuit at no charge, or if you have questions concerning this notice or your rights, please contact Joon M. Khang, a prominent litigator for almost two decades, by telephone: (949) 419-3834, or via e-mail at [email protected]. This press release may constitute Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170127005779/en/

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[January 28, 2017] Sunovion's Latuda (lurasidone HCl) Receives FDA Approval to Treat Adolescents with Schizophrenia

Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc. (Sunovion) today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the supplemental New Drug Application (sNDA) for Latuda (lurasidone HCI) for the treatment of schizophrenia in adolescents aged 13 to 17 years. LATUDA is also approved in the U.S. for the treatment of adults with schizophrenia and for the treatment of adults with major depressive episodes associated with bipolar I disorder (bipolar depression) as monotherapy and as adjunctive therapy with lithium or valproate. This Smart News Release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170128005011/en/ U.S. FDA Approves Latuda (lurasidone HCl) for the Treatment of Schizophrenia in Adolescents (13-17 Years) (Photo: Business Wire) "The impact on development and poor prognosis frequently associated with schizophrenia that begins in adolescence underscores the need for treatment that is both well-tolerated and effective," said Robert Findling, M.D., M.B.A., Vice President of Psychiatric Services and Research at the Kennedy Krieger Institute, Director of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and a study investigator. "The availability of LATUDA provides healthcare providers with an important new option for helping adolescents with this illness that is chronic and severely disabling." The approval is based on results from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, six-week study in which adolescent patients with schizophrenia received fixed doses of LATUDA 40 mg/day, LATUDA 80 mg/day or placebo. At study endpoint, LATUDA 40 mg/day and 80 mg/day were associated with statistical and clinical improvement in symptoms of schizophrenia compared to placebo. LATUDA was also generally well tolerated with limited effects on weight and metabolic parameters. "We are pleased that LATUDA's range of indications has now expanded beyond the adult population to include the treatment of schizophrenia in adolescents aged 13 to 17 years. We believe that LATUDA, as the first such medication in five years approved for adolescent patients with schizophrenia, is an important new treatment option for this difficult to treat illness," said Antony Loebel, M.D., Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer at Sunovion, Head of Global Clinical Development for Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Group. "This approval builds on and reflects our commitment to advancing the treatment of serious psychiatric illness." The overall severity, impact on development and poor prognosis of adolescent schizophrenia highlight the need for early detection, prompt diagnosis and effective treatment.2 Adolescent schizophrenia has been characterized by a more severe onset of psychotic symptoms than adult-onset schizophrenia and is more likely to be preceded by social and developmental impairments.1,2 Additionally, delays to treatment from onset of psychotic symptoms may be two to three times longer for adolescents than adults and are associated with poorer treatment outcomes and response to treatment.3,4 Anyone seeking medical information, patient assistance and other information can access Sunovion Answers at LATUDA.com/answers or by calling 1-855-552-8832 Sunday through Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to midnight ET. About Schizophrenia Schizophrenia is a chronic, serious and often severely disabling brain disorder. Symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions usually start between ages 16 and 30.7 Other symptoms may include unusual or dysfunctional ways of thinking, agitated body movements, reduced expression of emotions and cognitive symptoms such as poor focus, memory or executive functioning.7 Although rare in young children, incidence of schizophrenia rises during adolescence and peaks in early adulthood.2 Adolescent schizophrenia is associated with poor functioning prior to the onset of illness and early developmental delays.2 Similar types of early developmental and social impairments have been reported in adult-onset schizophrenia, but appear to be more common and severe in adolescents.2 A diagnosis of schizophrenia in adolescence may be a predictor of less independence, poorer educational achievement, lower likelihood of employment or access to further education, higher global disability scores and poor social relationships in adulthood.8 About LATUDA LATUDA is used to treat patients with: Depressive episodes in bipolar I disorder (bipolar depression) when used alone or with lithium or valproate in adults

Schizophrenia in adults and adolescents 13 to 17 years of age The efficacy of LATUDA was established in a 6-week monotherapy study and a 6-week adjunctive therapy study with lithium or valproate in adult patients with bipolar depression. The efficacy of LATUDA in schizophrenia was established in five 6-week controlled studies in adult patients and one 6-week placebo-controlled study in adolescents (13 to 17 years). The most common side effects of LATUDA include sleepiness or drowsiness; restlessness or feeling like you need to move around (akathisia); difficulty moving, slow movements, muscle stiffness, or tremor; runny nose/nasal inflammation, and nausea. LATUDA is available in five tablet strengths: 20 mg, 40 mg, 60 mg, 80 mg and 120 mg. The effectiveness of LATUDA for longer-term use, that is, for more tha 6 weeks, has not been established in controlled studies. Therefore, the physician who elects to use LATUDA for extended periods should periodically re-evaluate the long-term usefulness of the drug for the individual patient. The efficacy of LATUDA in the treatment of mania associated with bipolar disorder has not been established.



Please see Important Safety Information, including Boxed Warnings, below and full Prescribing Information at www.LATUDA.com. Important Safety Information and Indications for LATUDA

INCREASED MORTALITY IN ELDERLY PATIENTS WITH DEMENTIA-RELATED PSYCHOSIS; and SUICIDAL THOUGHTS AND BEHAVIORS Elderly people with dementia-related psychosis (having lost touch with reality due to confusion and memory loss) treated with this type of medicine are at an increased risk of death compared to patients receiving placebo (sugar pill). LATUDA is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis. Antidepressant medicines may increase suicidal thoughts or behaviors in some children, teenagers, and young adults within the first few months of treatment. Depression and other serious mental illnesses are themselves associated with an increase in the risk of suicide. Patients on antidepressants and their families or caregivers should watch for new or worsening depression symptoms, especially sudden changes in mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings. This is very important when an antidepressant medicine is started or when the dose is changed. Report any change in these symptoms immediately to the doctor. LATUDA is not approved for use in pediatric patients with depression. LATUDA can cause serious side effects, including stroke that can lead to death, which can happen in elderly people with dementia who take medicines like LATUDA. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a rare but very serious condition that can happen in people who take antipsychotic medicines, including LATUDA. NMS can cause death and must be treated in a hospital. Call your health care provider right away if you become severely ill and have some or all of these symptoms: high fever, excessive sweating, rigid muscles, confusion, or changes in your breathing, heartbeat or blood pressure. Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a serious and sometimes permanent side effect reported with LATUDA and similar medicines. Tell your doctor about any movements you cannot control in your face, tongue, or other body parts, as they may be signs of TD. TD may not go away, even if you stop taking LATUDA. TD may also start after you stop taking LATUDA. Increases in blood sugar can happen in some people who take LATUDA. Extremely high blood sugar can lead to coma or death. If you have diabetes or risk factors for diabetes (such as being overweight or a family history of diabetes), your health care provider should check your blood sugar before you start LATUDA and during therapy. Call your health care provider if you have any of these symptoms of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) while taking LATUDA: feel very thirsty, need to urinate more than usual, feel very hungry, feel weak or tired, feel sick to your stomach, feel confused, or your breath smells fruity. Increases in triglycerides and LDL (bad) cholesterol and decreases in HDL (good) cholesterol have been reported with LATUDA. You may not have any symptoms, so your health care provider may decide to check your cholesterol and triglycerides during your treatment with LATUDA. Some patients may gain weight while taking LATUDA. Your doctor should check your weight regularly. Tell your doctor if you experience any of these:  feeling dizzy or light-headed upon standing  decreases in white blood cells (which can be fatal)  trouble swallowing LATUDA and medicines like it may raise the level of prolactin. Tell your health care provider if you experience a lack of menstrual periods, leaking or enlarged breasts, or impotence. Tell your health care provider if you have a seizure disorder, have had seizures in the past, or have conditions that increase your risk for seizures. Tell your health care provider if you experience prolonged, abnormal muscle spasms or contractions, which may be a sign of a condition called dystonia. LATUDA can affect your judgment, thinking, and motor skills. You should not drive or operate hazardous machinery until you know how LATUDA affects you. LATUDA may make you more sensitive to heat. You may have trouble cooling off. Be careful when exercising or when doing things likely to cause dehydration or make you warm. Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while you take LATUDA since these can affect the amount of LATUDA in the blood. Tell your health care provider about all prescription and over-the-counter medicines you are taking or plan to take, since there are some risks for drug interactions with LATUDA. Tell your health care provider if you are allergic to any of the ingredients of LATUDA or take certain medications called CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers. Ask your health care provider if you are not sure if you are taking any of these medications. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking LATUDA. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or if you are planning to get pregnant. Avoid breastfeeding while taking LATUDA. The most common side effects of LATUDA include sleepiness or drowsiness; restlessness or feeling like you need to move around (akathisia); difficulty moving, slow movements, muscle stiffness, or tremor; runny nose/nasal inflammation, and nausea. These are not all the possible side effects of LATUDA. For more information, ask your health care provider or pharmacist. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call l-800-FDA-1088. About Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc. (Sunovion) Sunovion is a global biopharmaceutical company focused on the innovative application of science and medicine to help people with serious medical conditions. Sunovion's vision is to lead the way to a healthier world. The company's spirit of innovation is driven by the conviction that scientific excellence paired with meaningful advocacy and relevant education can improve lives. With patients at the center of everything it does, Sunovion has charted new paths to life-transforming treatments that reflect ongoing investments in research and development and an unwavering commitment to support people with psychiatric, neurological and respiratory conditions. Sunovion's track record of discovery, development and commercialization of important therapies has included Brovana (arformoterol tartrate), Latuda (lurasidone HCI), and most recently Aptiom (eslicarbazepine acetate). Headquartered in Marlborough, Mass., Sunovion is an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Co., Ltd. Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Europe Ltd., based in London, England, Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc., based in Mississauga, Ontario, and Sunovion CNS Development Canada ULC, based in Toronto, Ontario, are wholly-owned direct subsidiaries of Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc. Additional information can be found on the company's web sites: www.sunovion.com, www.sunovion.eu and www.sunovion.ca. Connect with Sunovion on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube. About Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Co., Ltd. Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma is among the top-ten listed pharmaceutical companies in Japan operating globally in major pharmaceutical markets, including Japan, the United States, China and the European Union. Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma aims to create innovative pharmaceutical products in the Psychiatry & Neurology area and the Oncology area, which have been designated as the focus therapeutic areas. Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma is based on the merger in 2005 between Dainippon Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., and Sumitomo Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd. Today, Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma has about 7,000 employees worldwide. Additional information about Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma is available through its corporate website at www.ds-pharma.com. BROVANA is a registered trademark of Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc.

LATUDA is a registered trademark of Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Co., Ltd.

APTIOM is used under license from BIAL. Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc. is a U.S. subsidiary of Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Co., Ltd.

 2017 Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc. For a copy of this release, visit Sunovion's web site at www.sunovion.com References

1 Veru F, et al. Schizophr Res. 2016; 174(1-3):183-188.

2 Hollis, C. BJPsych Advances. 2015; 21:333-341.

3 Dominguez MD, Fisher HL, Major B, et al. Schizophr Res. 2013; 150:526-532.

4 Perkins et al. Am J Psychiatry, 2005:162(10); 1785-1804

5Vitiello B, et al. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol. 2009; 19(9):629-635.

6 Correll CU, Carlson HE. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry. 2006; 45(7):771-791.

7 National Institute of Mental Health. Schizophrenia. [Internet]. Available from: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/schizophrenia/index.shtml. Accessed January 2017.

8 Hollis, C. Am J Psychiatry. 2000; 157:1652-1659. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170128005011/en/

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The Emir of Gwandu and Chairman, Kebbi State Council of Chiefs, Alhaji Muhammad Bashar, has urged banks in Nigeria to emulate Islamic Jaiz Bank Plc soft banking policies and principles of making life better for the people.The monarch gave the advice in Birnin Kebbi when he received the Managing Director of the bank, Malam Hassan Usman, who paid him a courtesy call.He described the emergence of the bank as timely in view of its banking principles, devoid of interest toward making life meaningful to all its customers.Jaiz bank, although an Islamic bank, is accepted even in Western countries because of its transparent policies and principles of making life better for the people.I really commend you and your resilience in spite of the challenges you faced before you got to where you are today,  Bashar said.Earlier, the managing director of the bank, said the visit was in appreciation of the support and cooperation rendered by the Emir toward the establishment of the bank.He said the bank started operations five years ago with provisional approval to open three branches in Abuja , Kaduna and Kano, adding that the CBN has now given us approval to open branches nationwide.We have 27 branches with three new ones to be established in February this year, Usman said.According to him, when the bank started its operation, it had only N5 billion capital but now it has risen to N15 billion and N10 billion will also be added to make it N25 billion before the end of the year.Usman said that customers savings had risen from N12 billion to N50 billion.The banks operational system is devoid of interest, unlike other conventional banks and even Non-Muslims can save and benefit from the banks loan, he said..The first person to benefit from our package is a Non-Muslim and I am happy that even the conventional banks are now adopting some of our principles,  he said.
Al-Shabaab attacked a Kenyan army base in southern Somalia yesterday ,claiming it killed no fewer than 51 soldiers in the process.

Al-Shabaab attacked a Kenyan army base in southern Somalia yesterday ,claiming it killed no fewer than 51 soldiers in the process.Armed with rocket-propelled grenades and assault rifles,the terrosists struck the Kulbiyow base catching the soldiers unawares.But the Kenyan defence authorities denied the death of any of its soldiers saying that instead the attack was repelled and scores of the extremists killed.The Islamist militants gave details of the attack in a statement on Radio Andalus, a pro-insurgency broadcaster, and said that equipment and ammunition was also seized in the raid.However, Kenya Defence Forces spokesman Lieutenant-Colonel Paul Njuguna confirmed the attack but denied there had been casualties.A big operation is currently ongoing, nobody has had time to count casualties, mostly on their side, he said by phone from Nairobi, the Kenyan capital.He dismissed as propaganda al-Shabaabs claim that it had killed tens of Kenyan soldiers .Al-Shabaab, which is affiliated with al-Qaeda, has waged an insurgency in the Horn of Africa nation since 2006 in a bid to impose its version of Islamic law.Although it was driven out of Mogadishu in 2011 by government and African Union forces, it continues to stage deadly gun and bomb attacks.In January 2016, the al-Qaeda-linked insurgents attacked a Kenyan camp near the border at El Adde and claimed 100 Kenyan soldiers were killed.The Kenyan government acknowledged the fatalities, without giving its own toll.
Garba Shehu, senior special assistant to the president on media and publicity, has given a clarification on President Muhammadu Buharis l...

Garba Shehu, senior special assistant to the president on media and publicity, has given a clarification on President Muhammadu Buharis letter to the senate concerning the report of its investigation of allegations against Babachir Lawal, the secretary to the government of the federation (SGF).Speaking on Raayi Riga, a BBC Hausa audience participation programme, on Friday, Shehu said Buhari only acted in response to the senates report.He said the criticisms the president received over the development were unwarranted because his letter to the senate did not dwell on whether the SGF was guilty or not guilty.What President Buhari has done is simply to act in a response to a report by the SGF, Babachir David Lawal, who insisted that he and the companies cited were not given a fair hearing by the national assembly, he said.President Buharis communication to Nigerias lawmakers was simply this: If the SGF was not given a fair hearing, can you now give him one?He added that the report in discussion, was an interim one and a final report was, therefore, being expected.Shehu said it would not have been advisable to act on the matter before a final report was received from the legislature.He said as fervent as Buhari is about the war on corruption, he believes in due process and in fair hearing, without which our democracy cannot be taken seriously by Nigerians or the international community.Lawals compnay was accused of getting a suspicious N200 million grass clearing contract in Yobe state.
President Muhammadu Buhari is expected to return to Nigeria from London on Monday, February 6, 2017.

President Muhammadu Buhari is expected to return to Nigeria from London on Monday, February 6, 2017.This was revealed by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina.The revelation is coming just as a picture showing President Buhari and Ogun State governor, Ibikunle Amosun, together.The picture, which was purportedly taken at the President's current location of his 10-day vacation, is coming after growing concern of the President's health by the public.Adesina said: The growing tension about President Buharis health is purely unnecessary. The president is just simply fine. I speak with people around him at regular interval.For his age, President Buhari is fit and capable of paddling the affairs of the country.He turned 74 last December and if you look at his engagement in the last two months, you will agree with me that its been very engaging.Remember his role in the Gambia issue.My candid advise for those peddling the rumour is to change their mind and remain positive about this administration.President Buhari left the shores of Nigeria a day before The Gambian former leader, Yahya Jammeh ceded power to Adama Barrow.
The Christian Association of Nigeria on Friday expressed concern over the continuous persecution of its members, particularly pastors, and...

The Christian Association of Nigeria on Friday expressed concern over the continuous persecution of its members, particularly pastors, and demanded that the Acting President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo (SAN), should intervene in the clampdown on churches because his studied silence is no longer golden.While threatening to resist any attempt to turn Nigeria to a refugee camp for Christians, the organisation condemned the harassment of the fiery pastor and General Overseer of Omega Fire Ministries Worldwide, Apostle Johnson Suleiman, by the Department of State Services in Ekiti State.The position of CAN was contained in a statement issued on behalf of its President, Dr. Samson Olasupo Ayokunle, by his Special Assistant (Media and Communication), Adebayo Oladeji, in Abuja.CAN also raised the alarm that Apostle Suleiman has become a refugee in Ekiti State as security operatives are said to be searching every nook and cranny of the state with a view to arresting him.CAN said, It is high time the overzealous security agencies knew that Nigeria remains a secular state and any attempt to turn the country into a refugee camp for Christians will not be acceptable and will be resisted with every lawful means.We call on the Acting President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, to intervene in all the clampdown on the Church in Nigeria. After all, he is in the office primarily to represent the interest of the Christians and his studied silence is no longer golden.Why we have yet to recover from the genocide in Southern Kaduna by the murderous Fulani herdsmen and its attendant consequences, the Jigawa State Government began the pulling down of our churches with impunity.As if that was not enough, some operatives from the DSS reportedly invaded a hotel in Ekiti on Tuesday where Apostle Johnson Suleiman and his team who were in the state capital for a crusade were lodging.According to what we heard, they insisted on remaining in the hotel until Apostle Johnson Suleiman surrendered himself for arrest. But for the timely intervention of the management of the hotel and other well-meaning Nigerians around, the invasion could have resulted into bloodshed as the minister of God was there with some MOPOL men and officers. Apostle Suleiman has become a refugee in Ekiti State as security operatives are said to be searching every nook and cranny of the state with a view to arresting him.According to the organisation, if there is an urgent need to interrogate Apostle Suleiman on any issue, it would only have been proper to extend a formal or informal invitation to him by the DSS, rather than the Gestapo approach used in the attempt to arrest him.According to CAN, under Nigerian Laws, Suleiman is presumed innocent until a court of law proves otherwise.CAN wondered if the DSS had extended the proposed obnoxious law which forbids religious preaching without the permission of the state government being spearheaded by Governor Nasir el-Rufai of Kaduna State.The body said, Treating ministers of God and our members as common criminals is unacceptable to CAN. Enough is enough! Despite all the promises made by Governor Nasir el-Rufai, none of those who were responsible for the killings of our members in the Southern Kaduna has been brought to book. Instead, the police have been releasing those who were arrested for the killing of our members in Kano and Kubwa (Abuja) while our leaders are being subjected to untold hardship for just no cause.The last time we checked, Sections 38-41 of the 1999 constitution (as amended) state clearly that every Nigerian is entitled to freedom of thought, conscience and religion, including freedom to change his religion or belief, and freedom (either alone or in community with others, and in public or in private) to manifest and propagate his religion or belief in worship, teaching, practice and observance.The constitution states unambiguously that every person shall be entitled to freedom of expression, including freedom to hold opinions and to receive and impart ideas and information without interference.Every person shall be entitled to assemble freely and associate with other persons, and in particular he may form or belong to any political party, trade union or any other association for the protection of his interests. Every citizen of Nigeria is entitled to move freely throughout Nigeria and to reside in any part thereof, and no citizen of Nigeria shall be expelled from Nigeria or refused entry thereby or exit there.The Buhari Support Organisation had earlier cautioned the Kaduna State Governor, el-Rufai, against using the DSS for vendetta against Suleiman.Deputy Director of the group, Blessing Agbomhere, said the DSS should not allow itself to be used by the governor to fight his war against the cleric.He said, The DSS should not be taking instructions from el-Rufai and he should stop giving the impression that he is the one running Muhammadu Buharis administration.Meanwhile, some pastors have said that there was nothing wrong in Apostle Suleimans comments that Christians should start retaliating any attacks or killings by Fulani herdsmen.They said that if the Federal Government had shown seriousness in stopping the Fulani herdsmen crisis, the religious leader wouldnt have asked his followers to defend themselves against the herdsmen.The founder of Life Anchor Ministries International, Pastor Bayo Akinjiyan, said, Even though I wasnt at the programme where he preached, going by what was reported, I want to believe that what the Apostle was saying was that Christians should defend themselves and that there was nothing wrong with self-defence.If somebody is coming to your house to kill you, you have the right to avoid being killed. As Christians, we dont encourage violence, but I think a time has come that people need to be security conscious so they dont die before their time.The leader of Living Waters Unlimited Church, Pastor Ladi Thompson, asked the Federal Government to stop facing the wrong enemy and focus on the more important issues in the country.He said, I speak as somebody who was in Southern Kaduna few days ago and I speak as a consultant in this area. We need the Federal Government to be better focused to diagnose the problem.On the part of the church, I think nobody should blame [Apostle] Suleiman because, frankly speaking, the church is usually the first victim in this displacement sequence that is troubling Nigeria.Church leadership should have coherent policies and solutions, because in the absence of that, we are going to have emotional responses, indignant responses and responses coming from a feeling of total helplessness; seemingly where people are being slaughtered and the Federal Government does nothing. So, if everybody were to calm down, we should stop facing the wrong enemy and face the right enemy.The Senior Special President to Osinbajo on Media and Publicity, Mr. Laolu Akande, said the acting President had always acted in and out of government to defend the rule of law and course of Justice.He was responding to a statement by the CAN, which accused Osinbajo of keeping studied silence in the face of alleged persecution of churches in the country.In a statement issued on Friday night, Akande said Osinbajo was committed to the best standards of governance that primes and values the life of every Nigerian, regardless of religion or ethnicity.He said as far as the acting President was concerned, all Nigerians were equal and loved by God, and does not discriminate on the basis of religion.The statement read, Alongside the President, Prof. Osinbajo is unwavering in ensuring that anyone who violates the law, should and must be made to face the full extent of the law.He has spoken out publicly on the inherent weaknesses in the nations Criminal Justice System, and is working assiduously within government to bring the reforms necessary, including the option of community policing.The current limitations of the criminal justice system however affects virtually every kind of crime, including the example of high profile murders of the past, many of which remain unsolved.This administration will continue to defend and protect the lives of all Nigerian citizens. Its the reason the President gave firms instructions to security agencies-military and police to send reinforcements to Southern Kaduna to enforce the peace. The Southern Kaduna crisis has become a worrying recurrent decimal over the years.We -all of us in government, political, religious leaders, traditional rulers and the entire Nigerian people, especially the elites- must work to find a lasting solution.Situations like the crisis in Southern Kaduna while capable of provoking emotive reactions and potent for divisive rhetorics, calls for the display of true leadership virtues from everyone of us. We should resist the temptations to succumb to divisive tendencies.
The Murtala Muhammed International Airport Command of Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) has seized two civil models Bell Helicopters brough...

The Murtala Muhammed International Airport Command of Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) has seized two civil models Bell Helicopters brought into the country by unknown importers.The Service immediately handed over the helicopters to the Nigerian Air Force for use in the fight against insurgency.The NCS accused the importers of the said items of failure to produce the end user certificate from the office of the National Security Adviser ( NSA), thus contravening Section 36 (2) of the Customs and Excise Management Act.Addressing newsmen at the commands office at the Lagos Airport yesterday, the Customs Area Controller, Frank Allanah, said the duty value of the two helicopters and other accessories was about N9,757,135,240.86.He said the helicopters were flown into the country as a consignment with Airway Bill Number 17232444403 through the Murtala Muhammed International Airport.The choppers, he said, were detained at the Skyways Aviation Handling Company Limited (SAHCOL) shed, pending the fulfillment of all the legal requirements for the importation .He said upon examination, the consignment was found to contain two civil models 412 EP of serial numbers 36608 and 36606 Bell Helicopters respectively in standard configuration and 23 packages said to contain their accessories weighing 11,075 kilogrammes.Ugo said: The unknown importer could not produce end user certificate from the office of the National Security Adviser (NSA); an act which contravenes section 36 sub section 2 of the Customs and Excise Management Act (CEMA) laws of the federation of Nigeria 2004.Consequently, seizure was effected on November 7, 2016 in line with section 46 of CEMA.Giving further insight into the seized choppers, he said all legal issues were considered before the Customs Authorities carried out the exercise.He said the chopper will be useful to the Nigerian Air Force in the fight against insurgency as the chopper were specially designed for such operations.Speaking during the handover of the choppers, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, said the two Bell choppers and accessories would be taken to the Nigerian Air Force hangar at the Lagos Airport for full examination in collaboration with Customs officials.He described the handover as a milestone, because the configuration of the aircraft is fitted for military combat operations.He said the presidential approval for the release of the two helicopters to the Nigerian Air Force would help to fight the war against insurgency and internal security engagement.Investigations however revealed that the two Bell Helicopters were imported by a state government in the South South in the twilight of a former administration in the state.But industry sources hinted that the transactions might not have been documented, forcing the current administration in the state to concede that the choppers be handed over to the Nigerian Air Force.In a telephone interview, an official of SAHCOL said he could not confirm if the choppers were imported by a state government.He said Customs reserves the right to seize any aircraft or imported item if the importer fails to show up for clearance and payment of necessary duty.Ugo also disclosed yesterday that revenue totaling N55,505,499,945.35 was collected from January to December 2016 by a highly dedicated work force of the Customs Airport Command, surpassing the collection of 2015 which stood at N24,746,642,881.3 billion.The increase in revenue collection, he said, is N12.8 billion above the previous year despite decline in cargo from 76.9 million tons in 2015 to 64.63 million tons in 2016.The command, he said, made several seizures of elephant tusks, foreign currencies and other items.
Former Aviation Minister Femi Fani-Kayode and his Wife, Precious Chikwendu on Friday hosted Governor Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti in Abuja.

Former Aviation Minister Femi Fani-Kayode and his Wife, Precious Chikwendu on Friday hosted Governor Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti in Abuja.Femi Fani-Kayode wrote; 'Wonderful time with our dearest friend and brother Governor Ayo Fayose, a man who has the heart of a warrior and a lion. It was an honour and a privilege to spend the afternoon with him in our home today. I love this man with all my heart and he is doing great things for both Ekiti state and Nigeria.'See photos:
Gunmen stormed the Owerri High Court in commando style yesterday, killing no fewer than six persons, including two prison wardens.

Gunmen stormed the Owerri High Court in commando style yesterday, killing no fewer than six persons, including two prison wardens.The invaders also ferried away a notorious kidnap suspect, Henry Chibueze, popularly known as Vampire, who had been brought to the court from Owerri Prisons.It was a horrific sight as judges and lawyers struggled to scale the perimeter fence to escape from the gunmen that sacked the court.No fewer than three Judges and one Magistrate were reported to have sustained serious injuries in the process and were taken to unidentified hospitals.It was also gathered that the soldiers on guard at the gates of the court fled on hearing the sound of the sophisticated weapons used by the gunmen.An eyewitness of the incident said the gunmen, numbering more than six, stormed the courtroom where the suspect and 49 others were standing trial and opened fire on the security operatives that guarded the accused persons.Having overpowered the security men, the source added, the gunmen whisked Vampire away after shooting sporadically for several minutes.The source said: We were here in the court premises when a lawyer came to call us to enter Room 3 for hearing.Shortly after that, we started hearing sporadic gunshots. About six gunmen entered the courtroom and started shooting.They came in a jeep (SUV) and eventually whisked away one of the inmates prisons officials had brought to the court.Some prison wardens were killed while other people in the court were wounded.Vampire was arrested in 2015 by the Department of State Security in Imo State while allegedly planning to kidnap some judges who were in the state for a conference.He was later arraigned, after which he was remanded in prison.It was later discovered that Vampire was still operating his kidnap syndicate from prison after a warden he recruited into the gang was arrested.Vampire was also reported to be living large in the prison as the prison authorities allegedly allowed him certain privileges, like using his phones and having access to his girlfriends.Confirming the incident, the Public Relations Officer of the Imo State Command of the Nigerian Prisons Service, Maduba James, said the the suspect was presently at large.He, however, said that only six people were critically injured in the incident, assuring that security operatives are on top of the situation to ensure that there is no breakdown of law and order in the state.He said: We were in the office this morning when we got a call that some gunmen were in the court premises.We thought they were DSS officials because by then, we were conveying more than 50 inmates to the state High Court.However, the gunmen attacked some of our men and some of the inmates.They are critically injured now and have been taken to the hospital.Meanwhile, one of the inmates who we know as Vampire is at large presently, but my controller and other security operatives are on top of the situation.At the time our correspondent visited the court, there was heavy presence of security operatives who had cordoned off the premises.It remained a mystery how the gunmen were able to escape with the suspect without any resistance as the Owerri High Court is tucked between the Government House and the official residence of the Commander of the 34 Artillery Brigade Obinze, and the area is guided by armed soldiers who mounted an Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) at the single entrance.
Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has bashed US President Donald Trump's anti-immigration policies and his plans to build a wall along the ...

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has bashed US President Donald Trump's anti-immigration policies and his plans to build a wall along the border with Mexico.Trump in his first week at the White house signed executive orders for the border wall, withholding federal funding from sanctuary cities and blocking refugees from nations like Iran, Iraq, Libya and Syria."Like many of you, I'm concerned about the impact of the recent executive orders signed by President Trump. We need to keep this country safe, but we should do that by focusing on people who actually pose a threat," Zuckerberg said in a Facebook post on Friday.Zuckerberg, who recently cleared that he was not running for the top post, criticised Trump's actions by saying the US is a "nation of immigrants".He said that his great-grandparents came to the US from Germany, Austria and Poland, while wife Priscilla Chan's parents were refugees from China and Vietnam.He urged Trump to keep the US' doors open to refugees."Had we turned away refugees a few decades ago, Priscilla's family wouldn't be here today," he said.However, Zuckerberg also appreciated Trump's announcement regarding finding a solution for 750,000 immigrants in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals programme under the DREAM Act.
The Minister of Health, Isaac Adewole, has attributed the prevalence of leprosy in Nigeria, after the country achieved the WHO elimination...

The Minister of Health, Isaac Adewole, has attributed the prevalence of leprosy in Nigeria, after the country achieved the WHO elimination target in 1998, to pockets of high endemicity in some states.Mr. Adewole made the remark at a news conference in Umuahia to commemorate the 64th anniversary of the World Leprosy Day Celebration on Friday with the theme: Zero disability among children affected by leprosy.According to him, of 2,892 leprosy cases reported in 2015, nine per cent was made up of children, while victims with grade II disability accounted for 15 per cent.Mr. Adewole explained that leprosy still posed a challenge due to the pockets of high endemicity in some states such as Jigawa, Kano, Kaduna, Kebbi, Bauchi, Taraba, Niger, Kogi, Ebonyi, Abia, Cross River, Edo, Osun, Ogun and Lagos.Of utmost concern is the existence of new leprosy cases that are reported each year among the general population, including children and those with grade 2 disability.He recalled that In 1998, after the introduction of the Multi- Drug Therapy (MDT), Nigeria achieved WHOS elimination target of less than one case per 10,000 population at the national level, saying lateness in presenting cases at the health care facilities made matters worse.He noted that the mistaken beliefs about the disease being highly contagious, hereditary and heavens punishment have negatively affected persons with leprosy even after they are cured.The minister said that the Federal Government had launched a five-year National Leprosy and Buruli Ulcer Strategic Plan (2016-2020) as part of its efforts to eliminate the disease in the endemic states.This document facilitates the implementation of appropriate strategies to increase case detection, improve treatment outcome, prevent disabilities and provide rehabilitation services to affected persons, he said.He expressed commitment to work with partners so as to ensure effective and sustained leprosy control and to achieve a reduction in stigma and discrimination in the country.He urged the media and civil society organisations to help propagate the message that leprosy is curable and treatment is free in addition to public enlightenment against stigmatisation and discrimination.What they need is love, understanding and your support, he said.Meanwhile, News Agency of Nigeria reports that the 59th National Council on Health meeting in Umuahia, which lasted for four days ended on Friday.
The Central Bank of Nigeria has explained that allowing naira to float freely will severely hurt the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.

The Central Bank of Nigeria has explained that allowing naira to float freely will severely hurt the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.The Acting Director, Corporate Communications Department, CBN, Isaac Okoroafor, said while reacting to the demands made by a group of protesters known as OccupyCBN led by Deji Adeyanju that the naira should be allowed to float freely.Mr. Okoroafor said the Apex bank is also not considering the reversal of its policy banning foreign exchange sale to importers of 41 items, which the country has the capacity to produce locally.The apex bank said rather than reversing the policy, it would continue to come up with policies that would support the real sector in order to ensure that the economy was adequately diversified.He said, How much of foreign exchange have they brought into the country since June 2016 when the naira was allowed to float to its current range? Rather than joining the CBN and other agencies of government to take the country out of the current situation, they are busy sponsoring gullible groups to protest.Allowing the naira to float will severely hurt the welfare of ordinary Nigerians and abolishing the list of 41 items will mean destroying the livelihood of millions of Nigerian farmers and genuine manufacturers who have made huge investments in the cultivation and local manufacturing of these imported items.
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U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer, on left, with Jim Driscoll at the Lenape Valley Diner on Saturday

(Rob Jennings/NJ Advance Media for NJ.com)

OAKLAND -- New Jersey's newest member of Congress is questioning President Trump's executive order barring Syrian refugees and residents of seven nations from entering the United States.

U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer said his wife's grandparents settled in the U.S. after escaping the Holocaust.

"You can't just turn your back on what made America great," Gottheimer said on Saturday.

Gottheimer, a Democrat from Wyckoff who took office Jan. 3, spoke with NJ Advance Media during his "Cup of Joe with Josh" event at the Lenape Valley Diner.

Some at the diner asked Gottheimer about Trump, who on Friday issued an executive order suspending the Syrian refugee program and barring entry from seven predominantly Muslim nations for 90 days.

Since ousting former Republican Rep. Scott Garrett last fall, Gottheimer has noted areas in which he agrees with Republicans, such as in scaling back federal regulations.

However, on the immigration ban, he drew a sharp distinction between himself and Trump's executive order.

"I woke up this morning deeply concerned," Gottheimer said.

Gottheimer said that, while he understands the importance of closely screening new arrivals, that "the United States has always had good processes in place."

He alluded to the inscription welcoming immigrants on the base of the Statue of Liberty.

"That is so core to who we are. It's what's made our economy great and helped our economy grow. It's what's made America the melting pot and such a rich place to live, and a culturally rich place to live," Gottheimer said.

Gottheimer expressed hope that Trump will reconsider after the 90-day review.

"I'm hopeful that the president will hear such an outcry to taking draconian measures that when after the review is over, he'll understand that we need to be vigilant, (have) very strict review policies on who we let in -- but that we don't shut down our borders from letting people in our country who want to be here," Gottheimer said.

Gottheimer represents the Fifth District, which includes parts of Bergen, Passaic, Sussex and Warren counties.

Rob Jennings may be reached at rjennings@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @RobJenningsNJ. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
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The four fatal shootings in Willingboro over the last year took place on Placid, Plumtree, Genesee and Woodlawn lanes. No arrests have been made.

(Google Maps)

WILLINGBORO TWP. -- In just over a month, three township men were killed by gunfire here.

In separate incidents between Dec. 12 and Jan. 15, Ibn Perry, 16, Tariq Mughal, 31, and Nasim Byrd, 22, were gunned down outdoors in Willingboro.

The only other shooting death in 2016 was in April when Colby Rodgers, 32, of Mount Laurel, was killed.

In a suburban community of just over 31,000, situated 20 miles south of Trenton and 20 miles north of Philadelphia, three fatal shootings in a month is a lot, Lt. Christopher Vetter said. One or two a year is the norm, he said, "but for us to have three so close together is unusual."

Countywide, fatal shootings have been credited with driving a spike in Burlington County's homicide rate in 2016. Nineteen were killed in the county, more than three times the previous year's total.

Willingboro accounted for four of those homicides in 2016. That's at least twice as many as have been investigated in each of the previous five years, records show.

Vetter recalled a talk he heard recently that touched on the issue of the "urban suburban." The phrase refers to a suburban setting dealing with more urban-associated problems, he said, including gun violence.

And Willingboro isn't exempt from those problems. "It's a bedroom community," Vetter said, with gun activity on the rise.

"It just seems like this generation now settles their issues with guns," he said.

The scope of the violence

The homicide rate is not the only rising number that has law enforcement worried.

"The number of incidents involving guns is up," Vetter said. That includes the number of incidents in which police recover illegal firearms from people.

"The number we see on the streets, that is alarming," he said of the firearms.

There were more "shots fired" calls in 2016, too.

While the homicide rate is higher than usual, Willingboro's violent crime rate in the last two years was actually lower than previous years.

Among the five most populous communities in Burlington County, Willingboro had the second highest violent crime rate, at 3.2 per 1,000. It was just behind Pemberton Township with 3.5.

No one has been arrested in any of the last four fatal shootings in Willingboro.

Vetter said detectives are still actively investigating each of them, but it takes time -- sometimes up to a year -- for physical evidence to be processed at state labs. And without witnesses to identify the shooter or tips that help form leads, physical evidence is all they have.

Police can't say the killings are gang-related, he said, as it's hard to prove someone had a connection to a certain gang and also that that motivated the killing.

"They aren't random," he said. "Typically there is an intended target... They're looking for someone."

"There doesn't seem to be any geographic ties between the killings, either. "Two of the last four homicides occurred in Pennypacker (neighborhood), but we haven't found any correlation," Vetter said.

'We're going to fight'

So what is Willingboro doing to combat this tide of gun violence? It's a multipronged effort involving police, community leaders and neighbors.

Pastor Carlos Worthy of the Boro Church and his wife Tiffani Worthy said that every incident of violence is energizing the community to work harder to not be the place that makes headlines for shootings.

"We're not settling for that reputation," Carlos Worthy said. "We're going to fight, to put out our resources and come together. It's a great town."

Carlos Worthy said a first step is getting to know a neighbor and the challenges he or she is facing. Many adults are also see this as an opportunity to fill the "gap" that has grown between the generations, he said.

"It's re-establishing those relationships with youth," he said. "Some of them are facing challenges we wouldn't even think of in middle school or high school. They can help us understand what their needs are."

The Worthys started the All Things Are Possible Foundation to help youth with academics and get them involved in healthy activities.

Tiffani Worthy pointed to the Feb. 4 Youth Symposium, hosted by Willingboro Recreation and Parks Department, as an example of how different community groups and organizations are coming together to show families all the resources and youth available to them.

Harry Walker, a real estate broker, is another resident who is working to fill a void that may be causing some to turn to crime. "I think these shootings, they're not the problem. They're more of a symptom of the problem," he said.

He started the Youth Business League, mentoring those from 16 to 24 in entrepreneurship, problem solving and other business skills so they can have better opportunities when they finish high school and age out of youth activities.

The group has grown to as many as 60 young people, he said.

From a law enforcement perspective, Vetter said that getting residents to trust officers and share information is critical in making arrests in the 2016 killings and getting more guns off the street.

"We're actively working to improve our relationship with the public," he said. "A lot of times we try to investigate or talk about these issues and they're extremely worried about sharing with us."

Vetter said people worry that they will be retaliated against if they talk to the police. The department has met with clergy, church groups and other community organizations to make connections with people and gain their trust, he said.

"It has to be a collaborative effort between the police and the public."

Tiffani Worthy said that in all the conversations about the tragedies in Willingboro over the last year, she has not heard anyone say they live in fear.

"I think a lot of people have a lot of pride in Willingboro. They realize that we've got to make some changes," she said.

Anyone with information about any criminal activity in Willingboro can call the tip hotline at (609) 877-6958.

Rebecca Everett may be reached at reverett@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @rebeccajeverett. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
The column that always knows where to find its exits

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Good morning!

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Went to East Point Lighthouse the other day and it was beautiful. As someone that grew up exploring the bay outside Atlantic City, having salt water in the air did my soul good.

Also East Point Lighthouse will not be open for Eaglefest, despite previous reports. Work is still being done over there.

But take it from someone who climbed the lighthouse, despite his fear of heights, the wait will be worth it.

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"I'm sorry to say, but according to these emails (Millville) will not be applying for the grants for Shotspotter! I just want to thank everyone for everything and by putting up with my posts. I'm sorry if I took up any of your time in my posts and by you emailing everyone. I'm still going to continue fight and go into regroup mood. Again thank you!"

- Timothy Carty

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"This year, 2017, is the 100th anniversary of America's formal involvement in World War I. Call it what you want, World War I, the Great War or, as H.G. Wells called it, "The War That Will End War." Another version is the War to End All War.

"America, though not formally involved in the war before 1917 did suffer losses. Ships were sunk by German submarines with American passengers on board. The first was Leon Thrasher, from Massachusetts, who drowned after the ship Falaba was torpedoed on March 28, 1915 off the coast of England. Next was the sinking of the Lusitania on May 7, 1915 when 128 Americans lost their lives. Still there seemed to be no desire to involve America in a war so far away. The only thing done after the sinking of the Falaba was a message sent to the German government by President Wilson warning about this grave situation of unrestricted submarine warfare.

"Once war of Germany was declared on April 6, 1917, the effects on Bridgeton would be far reaching. The young men of National Guard of New Jersey would see their lives change forever. Many of the local "doughboys" who went to France to fight paid the ultimate sacrifice. Many of those who made it back never seemed to be the same and some died within several years after returning. All of these men and women of WWI deserve to be remembered not only on Memorial Day, but especially during the nest two years. More to come."

- Jim Bergmann

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Bergmann takes care of Broad Street Cemetery in Bridgeton -- which is full of history and is worth a walk around. Stop by when they have an event going on and learn about local history.

Just stop driving into the cemetery. That's happened enough over the years.

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Proving that Dave Vanaman has a bigger heart than people give him credit for, the Incredible Bulk in Millville was a dropping off point for presents to the kids of Tara O'Shea-Watson. Vanaman received the following letter.

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"Dear Incredible Bulk and Patrons:

"We wish to say thank you so much for your kindness and generosity.

"The children were truly blessed by your support in this trying time.

"You helped to give a light in our darkness and hope in our future.

"The children are well and safe in capable hands and will be supported -- this had begun with your loving thoughts.

"Thank you

"God Bless."

- O'Shea-Watson and Monell families

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MY KIND OF TOWN: Where kindness is always appreciated it

Don E. Woods may be reached at dwoods@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @donewoods1. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
VINELAND -- The 3,000 veterans in the South Jersey area that had to travel all the way to Delaware for some of their care now have a new Veterans Affairs clinic here to take care of their medical needs.

The 10,000-square-foot Cumberland County Community Based Outpatient Clinic is located on West Landis Avenue and nearly doubles the previous space and utility of the city's former location. Officials recognized the opening of the new clinic Friday afternoon during a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

"This is a huge stride forward and one that is very much appreciated, especially for our veterans, for the comfort it will provide them and the care that they need," said Congressman Frank LoBiondo.

New services offered at the Vineland facility includes optometry, podiatry and surgery. If a patient needs additional services, a doctor can check on them remotely through a conference system. The clinic was built to accommodate the 3,000 veterans served by the VA in the area and for additional veterans who need medical aid.

"We put more services into this facility because we've been able to increase the size of it and that's a great addition to showing how VA is helping our veterans in South Jersey," said Robert Callahan Jr., interim director at the VA Medical Center in Wilmington, Delaware.

Before, veterans had to get onto a bus and travel all the way to Wilmington for healthcare. With the new facility, they now have option to stay in South Jersey. Veterans that would prefer to continue using Wilmington can choose to do so and use new Wilmington VA Express shuttles to travel around.

"Veterans served our country, most of them volunteered and stepped up to serve this country," said Dr. Tanveer Qureshi, chief of primary care. "They deserve, if not the best health care, as close to the best healthcare that we can provide. That's why when we look at staff and we look at services we offer, that we are providing that for them."

To learn if you are eligible for care at a VA facility, call 800-461-8262 ex: 4185 or visit www.wilmington.va.gov.

Don E. Woods may be reached at dwoods@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @donewoods1. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
NEW BRUNSWICK -- Rutgers University students started a petition, launched a hashtag and even filmed a video to try to land Ellen DeGeneres as the 2017 commencement speaker.

But they forgot one critical step: Nominating the popular television personality through the official university process for selecting graduation speakers.

Since Degeneres was not one of the 24 names submitted to the university online during a four-week window last spring, she won't be speaking at the May 14 ceremony, university spokeswoman Karen Smith said.

"While we understand there has been a growing interest in Ellen DeGeneres being the speaker, Ms. DeGeneres was not nominated during the formal process," Smith said.

However, DeGeneres can be nominated for the 2018 ceremony, Smith added.

Rutgers has used different methods for selecting its honorary degree recipients and commencement speakers in recent years, and for 2017 began an extensive new process recommended in a University Senate report, Smith said.

After nominations were submitted, students and faculty reviewed the names, and the student and faculty representatives to the Board of Governors made recommendations, Smith said.

Rutgers expects to finalize its graduation speaker next month, Smith said.

In a video posted online this week, students made a plea to the television personality to speak at their commencement. DeGeneres inspires students to be leaders, to be kind and to make a change, they said in the 75-second video.

"We want you Ellen," the students said, "to welcome us into the real world."

Adam Clark may be reached at adam_clark@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on twitter at @realAdamClark. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
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Good riddance.

Bill Kintner of Papillion finally did something right. He resigned from his seat in the Legislature.

His colleagues deserve credit for pushing him out the door. Kintner delivered his resignation less than hour before the Legislature was scheduled to begin debate on Kintners expulsion.

That would have been a first for the state. But other state senators finally had enough of the damage that Kintner was doing to the reputation of the Legislature and the state of Nebraska.

Speaker of the Legislature Jim Scheer said on Tuesday that he was positive there were enough votes for the supermajority to toss Kintner out of office.

The tipping point came when Kintner shared a tweet from California radio talk show host Larry Elder which mocked a photo of three women protesters holding signs that said Not My P- y and Not Mine Either. Ladies, I think youre safe, Elder tweeted.

The signs were a reference to the 2005 recording in which Donald Trump said that When youre a starYou can do anythingGrab them by the p- y.

But the list of offensive actions by Kintner stretched back for years, with the low point Kintners cyber-sex scandal, when he engaged in mutual masturbation with a woman he met online.

Senators  Democrat, Republican, moderates, conservatives, experienced, neophytes  couldnt take it anymore. Sen. Suzanne Geist of Lincoln, sworn in earlier this month, said she stands in solidarity with my sisters in the Legislature to ask Kintner to resign.

In that request  perhaps it should be considered a demand  Geist joined a host of others than included Lincoln Sens. Kate Bolz, Patty Pansing Brooks, Adam Morfeld and Matt Hansen, as well as Gov. Pete Ricketts.

In making his resignation, Kintner paraphrased former President Richard Nixon, saying You wont have Bill Kintner to kick around anymore.

Kintners difficulties, however, were self-inflicted. It wasnt his opponents that ruined his effectiveness as a legislator. It was Kintner himself. Ricketts said he will begin the process of finding a new senator to represent Kintners district.

It wont be difficult to find a replacement to do a better job than Kintner.

In his years as a state senator Kintner managed to win passage of only one piece of legislation. His constituents and the state of Nebraska are better off without him.
Derrick Felton of Alexandria, was arrested and booked with possession with intent to distribute $1.7 million in assorted narcotics (Photo courtesy the Louisiana State Police)
Westwego police officer Michael Louviere, who was shot in the head and killed while responding to an incident in Marrero on Friday morning (Ja
WASHINGTON (AP)  The House committee investigating the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol has issued a subpoena to Donald Trump. The nine-member panel sent a letter to the former president's lawyers on Friday, demanding his testimony under oath by mid-November and outlining a series of corresponding documents. The decision by lawmakers to exercise their subpoena power comes a week after the committee made its final case against the former president, who they say is the "central cause" of the multi-part effort to overturn the results of the 2020 election. It remains unclear how Trump and his legal team will respond to the subpoena, if at all.















A Plattsmouth, Nebraska, man was arrested nearly two years later for theft warrants after authorities said he stole a trailer full of tools  and was caught in the act by a trail camera.

Donnie Sprau, 48, has been charged with first and second degree theft and three counts of third degree burglary. He was arrested Wednesday and remains held in the Pottawattamie County Jail on $10,000 bond.

According to court records, Pottawattamie County Sheriffs deputies were dispatched near 152nd Street and Mormon Bridge Road near Crescent for two theft reports in February 2015.

The alleged victim in both reports is a tree trimming company, which reported three vehicles had been broken into, with pry marks left on the doors and compartments where tools were stored.

Another incident occurred on Feb. 13, 2015 at about 4 a.m. when a trailer storing tools was stolen from the alleged victim.

Photos of the theft were given to police that were taken with a nearby trail camera, showing a truck that was unique and easily identifiable at the scene, the report reads.

The next day, deputies found the stolen trailer and the unique truck at a residence in Council Bluffs, which belonged to Sprau, they said.

Sprau spoke to authorities and told them at the time of the theft he was asleep at home Plattsmouth with his wife. After being shown pictures taken from the trail camera, Sprau changed his story and stated that he and his wife had been fighting and he had been staying in his truck or in Fort Calhoun (Nebraska), police said.

The alleged victim viewed the property in the truck and found their hydraulic oil, which they had receipts for.

Authorities said they seized Spraus truck and the stolen trailer, obtained a search warrant and found the stolen property.

Sprau met with officers on May 7, 2015, and told them he was being framed, and that the trailer  which he didnt steal or know was stolen  next to his property only had his fingerprints on it because he had checked it out, according to the report.

Police had no further contact with Sprau for nearly two years until his arrest this week after a warrant was issued. His preliminary hearing is set for Feb. 3.
DENISON  Several factors combined for the recovery of Yoana Acostas remains on Thursday afternoon.

The 15-year-old girl from Denison had been missing since the early morning hours of Jan. 19 after the car she was in crashed in the Boyer River more than two miles north of the community.

The water level in the Boyer River had once again gone down overnight on Wednesday; members of Task Force-1 based in Sioux City who searched the river were joined by six members of Offutt Air Force Base Fire & Rescue, and a cadaver dog had a hit near the location where the remains were found in the river.

An overriding factor is the determination shown by local officials and volunteers. They refused to give up.

We didnt want to give up, Crawford County Sheriff James Steinkuehler said at a press conference Friday. We wanted to continue on because I put myself in that place and thought if that was my child, or anybody elses child, we wanted to make sure we were going to give it all we had and all we could until we exhausted all our resources.

Before Day 6, Tuesday, arrived, Steinkuehler said he wanted to give fire personnel some rest.

They had been working very hard  the fire departments, the dive teams. They were all tired, he said.

He had Crawford County Emergency Management Coordinator Greg Miller call the duty officer at the state emergency management agency in Des Moines. Task Force-1, which has done rescues all over the world, offered to bring 13 members to Denison.

Members of Task Force-1 searched portions of the river on Tuesday and Wednesday, but because only 10 of them were in the water at a time, they couldnt span the width of the Boyer River.

That meant they had to advance down one side of the river from the accident site, use GPS to mark how far theyd gone, and turn around and walk the other side. On Tuesday, they covered 1,800 feet.

That doesnt sound like a lot, but it was a lot for the water current at the time and the depth at that time, said Steinkuehler.

There were places up to here, he said, putting a hand at chest level, and maybe places over your head, in the holes.

On Wednesday Task Force-1 covered 3,250 feet, said Steinkuehler. The reason for the greater distance searched that day was that the river had dropped 12 to 18 inches overnight.

Denison native Lucas Lechtenberg, a member of Offutt Fire & Rescue, called Denison Fire Chief Cory Snowgren if they could help. The six members they brought on Thursday allowed the combined forces to span the width of the river with 16 individuals.

It was a fast-moving-type situation, said Steinkuehler.

He added that Miller had already called to get Task Force-1 for Friday, and with that, he said he would feel comfortable everything had been covered in the river by physical means.

The combined Task Force-1 and Offutt Fire & Rescue crews covered 1,825 feet down the river from the previous search and then pulled up because of the arrival of three cadaver dogs, from the STAR Unit, including one from Pat Morrissey, of Elkhorn, Nebraska, who offered his assistance.

Steinkuehler said Morrissey is a retired member of the STAR Unit and trains dogs.

Morrisseys dog had a hit upriver where cadaver dogs had been on Saturday. Steinkuehler said Morrissey continued on with the K-9 unit, and his dog got a hit by the Smithfield pork processing plant, located across from the fairgrounds in Denison. It was not as strong a hit as the other, and it was also parked by GPS.

Task Force-1 was scheduled to take its lunch break around 2 p.m., and it was decided that it would enter the river at the northern end of the Smithfield plant and walk down to the Avenue C bridge, near the boat landing at the fairgrounds.

We could cover that grid, and it wouldnt be like it was a waste of time because we could mark it, said Steinkuehler.

Acostas remains were found at 2:12 p.m. near the spot where Morrisseys dog had a hit from its location on the bank above the river. She was completely immersed in 20 to 24 inches of water, snagged on an object.

Steinkuehler said her remains were found a little east of the middle of the river, which is about 30 to 35 feet wide at that point. The location was not far north of the boat landing at the fairgrounds and was 2.25 miles downstream from the site of the accident.

Steinkuehler said rumors Acostas remains were found on the bank were untrue.

Her body was removed from the river and taken to a location where Steinkuehler could meet with the Crawford County Medical Examiner so arrangements could be made to conduct an autopsy.

The sheriff said the dog played a big role in the recovery in that the search and recovery team was brought down the river to focus on another grid of the river.

Steinkuehler estimated that about 150 individuals joined in the search since the first day. By the fourth or fifth day, volunteers who had been searching had to go back to work, and they were tired.

They are out there in the cold water all day; it takes a lot out of you. We had medical staff from Crawford County Memorial Hospital there looking at those people, the sheriff said.

He estimated the temperature of the water during the eight days of searching at 36 to 38 degrees.

Everyone was very professional, and Im proud of each and every person from Crawford and others that came, Steinkuehler said. It was done smoothly without any questions of professionalism.

He also thanked members of the community who brought food and beverages for those who helped in the search operation. In addition, several women who work at the sheriffs office and the police department came to the command center at the Western Iowa Expo Building to cook. Steinkuehler thanked them and the businesses in town that provided food.
Perhaps in the near future Iowans will be able to enjoy shrimp, sea bass and other fish grown right here in the state.

Known as aquaculture, its simply the farming of fish under controlled conditions, and its success here in Iowa is a possibility, according to Bill Northey, Iowas agriculture secretary.

There is more interest now in buying locally produced foods, he said during a Friday stop in Council Bluffs.

Meanwhile, the idea of growing crops without the need for water might be considered science fiction, but that could be science reality in Iowa in the future, also.

Its done indoors often with grow lights, he said. It has the potential of growth here.

Northey spoke about the current issues and future possibilities in the ag industry at a seminar sponsored by Security National Bank. His visit on Friday was part of his annual 99-county tour of the state.

Many Iowans may not realize just how much this country and the world depends on a healthy ag industry in this state, Northey said.

For example, Iowa produces more corn than all the countries in the world other than China, Brazil and the United States, he said. In fact, it takes the total amount in 28 European countries to match Iowas annual number. When it comes to soybeans, 60 percent of Iowas crop is sold to China.

Iowa is a leading pork producer worldwide and two pork processing plants with an investment totaling a half-billion dollars are being built in the state.

When it comes to off the farm sales, excluding value-added production, Iowas total figure reached $30 billion in 2012, compared to $12 billion just 10 years earlier, Northey said.

Were big news in other places, whether we know it or not, Northey said.

There are concerns, however, he added, such as the prices for corn and soybeans that are lower now than just a few years ago.

Its not as easy as it was with high prices, Northey said. Now, there is tension this year.

One factor that could raise these prices is for more countries, especially China, to begin importing American beef. The Chinese stopped importing American beef in 2003 after the mad cow disease scare. This would not only help livestock producers, but would require more feed and thereby create new demands for crop producers, he said.

Among those attending the event was Kirby Roenfeld, who farms and raises pigs southwest of Mineola. Farming has been in his family for 150 years. In fact, Sunday will be the 150th anniversary of his great-grandfather purchasing that farm, starting the familys long tradition.

Roenfeld himself has been farming for some 40 years, noting the necessary dedication hasnt changed. Especially when it comes to feeding livestock, he added, which is a seven-days-a-week job.

They have to eat and drink, no different than people, he said.

Roenfeld is among 100 Iowa farmers whose families have been in this business for 150 years. There are 300 others in the state whose families have been doing it for 100 years, Northey said.

Agriculture is about families, he said. Its people who will stay up all night with a (sick) calf or help their neighbors.

Although new crops offer potential, commodity prices and trade policy coul hurt state
OSAGE  John McMally has been named president of Fox River Mills Inc. and chief manufacturing officer of Standard Merchandising Co.

Fox River is Americas oldest performance sock brand, making technical socks for outdoor, snow, work, military sport and everyday since 1900, according to a news release. Standard Merchandising Co. focuses on boutique luxury, novelty and team sport socks under its umbrella of five brands.

McNally will work with the outgoing presidents of each brand throughout 2017 with the goal being a smooth transition.

I look forward to working with both John Lessard from Fox River and Jeff Tarnoff from Standard Merchandising who each have 40 years of expertise to share, McNally said.

McNally is very familiar with the Fox River brand, wearing many pair of socks while serving three tours in Afghanistan, he said.

I learned the real value that a good pair of socks provides while I was deployed, McNally said. After a 20-mile ruck march, you know quickly which socks wear well, and those were my Fox River socks. Im looking forward to contributing to and supporting a brand that supported me during my service.

McNally received seven commendations, including the Bronze Star in 2004 as part of his service as a commander of Special Forces.

Johns experience leading groups of people, in all walks of his life, will help grow Fox River and Standard Merchandising Co., said Laura Johnson, CEO of Standard Merchandising. His expertise in operational efficiency will enable us to meet the demands of todays changing consumer and retail markets while holding onto our quality.

McNally has two decades of leadership and military experience. A native Midwesterner, he will be based in Osage starting Feb. 1.

He can be reached at jmcnally@foxsox.com.

For more information on Fox River products visit www.foxsox.com.
Incoming management looks back on the years hes spent at company

In 2005, a man called Als Lock and Safe because he needed a key made. Problem was, he didnt have the key to copy  just an X-ray of his friend, who had accidentally swallowed it.

That story  picked up by outlets like the Today Show, The Learning Network and a film crew from Japan  is just one that John Somers looked back on as the owner of the North Platte locksmith shop. Earlier this month, Somers sold the business to his longtime employee Corban Heinis.

Somers came to work at Als Lock and Safe, 318 E. Front St., in 1995. When the owner retired, Somers made an offer and took over in 2003, he said. When Somers decided to leave, Heinis acquired the business in a similar way.

Having worked at Als since 2004, Heinis remembers many of Somers adventures as a locksmith.

In the case of the swallowed key, Somers made a perfect copy of Andrew Allens sole pickup key  swallowed by his friend, Arthur Richardson  in just a few minutes. He still has the X-ray.

Another time, Somers had a dream that the Christian rock band Pillar would walk into his shop during a trip to North Platte. One of the members later did, and I told him what he wanted before he told me what he wanted, Somers said, calling it a God moment. The member brought the whole band back, and a picture of them with Somers hangs on the wall.

But others of Somers memories dont involve national media or touring musicians. He remembers the staff helping the Lincoln County Historical Museum move archives to higher ground during a 2011 flood. During another flood, staff served meals at the North Platte Regional Airport and coffee to National Guard pilots. While the efforts didnt require a locksmiths work, Somers said its important to stay involved in the community. Its something Heinis plans to continue.

Heinis is looking at bringing new technology to North Platte with his new role, and Somers latest venture will also be new to the community. He and his wife purchased a Mosquito Authority franchise, which specializes in mosquito and tick eradication, he said.

Im all about being an entrepreneur, and thats the best way to do it, he said. Start a new business. Its fun. Fun to own a business.

Somers is helping Heinis in the early transition phases, and Heinis hopes to call on Somers help when hes available.

So far, the transition hasnt been a dramatic change, Heinis said: Ive got a great support staff.
Jeanie Shimmin was enjoying Christmas Eve with her family when her head began to hurt. Soon, her husband and youngest son were also complaining about headaches  then, her older son and his fiancee.

We thought we were probably all just getting the flu, said Shimmin, of North Platte.

But her oldest son wondered if a gas leak was causing them to feel sick. Then Shimmin realized it could be carbon monoxide.

Carbon monoxide, or CO, is a colorless, ordorless gas that can be deadly. Symptoms of CO poisoning are often described as flu-like and include headaches, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain and confusion, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

After we realized it could be CO, we called the gas company, Shimmin said.

The family was told to get out of the house immediately.

When a gas company employee arrived, his CO meter began to beep. The CO levels in the home were over 300 parts per million.

According to the Carbon Monoxide Safety Association, 50 ppm is the maximum average exposure allowed during an 8-hour work day by U.S. regulations. At 200 ppm, a workplace would be expected to evacuate. At 400 ppm, a person will likely experience symptoms within an hour or two, and the level becomes life-threatening after three hours of exposure. At 800 ppm, a person will die within two hours, and at 12,000 ppm a person would be dead within a couple of minutes.

According to the Nebraska Regional Poison Center, the most common causes of carbon monoxide poisoning include:

 Using heating equipment that is in poor repair

 Lack of ventilation in a car

 Using a charcoal grill indoors

 Using unvented space heaters

In Shimmins case, the cause was a tankless hot water heater that hadnt been properly installed. It fell away from the wall and was venting into the house. Shimmin said the family believes the problem may have existed for a couple of weeks, based on complaints of headaches leading up to Christmas Eve.

That day, though, the family was using more hot water than normal, leading to more carbon monoxide and more severe symptoms.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 400 deaths and about 15,000 emergency room visits occur each year nationally as a result of accidental CO poisoning.

Nebraska has been among states with the highest rates per capita of accidental CO poisoning deaths for several years, according to the CDC.

Last August, an Omaha couple died of CO poisoning, and in September a Lincoln man was found dead. Earlier this month one man died and a woman, six firefighters and one police officer were treated for CO poisoning as the result of high levels in a home in Grand Island.

There have not been any deaths in our fire district in recent years, said Trent Kleinow, assistant fire chief at the North Platte Fire Department.

He credits a high number of CO detectors in the district with keeping people safe.

In 2015, the Nebraska Legislature required that every home rented, sold or remodeled after Jan. 1, 2017, have a carbon monoxide detector.

In 2016, the North Platte Fire Department responded to nine carbon monoxide calls. A few were for alarms set off by high levels of carbon monoxide, but most were for detectors that were old or needed new batteries. A false alarm is better than no alarm, so Kleinow recommends that every home be equipped with a CO detector.

Shimmin said she didnt have a carbon monoxide alarm in her home on Christmas Eve.

Her youngest son had to go to the emergency room for treatment, but now the family is OK. That may not have been the case if her older son and his family hadnt come to celebrate, and if he hadnt suggested the possibility of a gas leak.

We probably would not be alive to share our story, Shimmin said. We immediately got a carbon monoxide detector to help protect us.
Its 10 p.m. on a summer night along a gravel road anywhere in Iowa. In the farm pond next to the road, raucous male frogs are making themselves heard as they vie for mates.

A volunteer stands clipboard in hand, ear cocked, mentally sorting out each of the calling species in this seemingly ordinary pond.

Skip over to a Saturday morning by the river where another volunteer has binoculars and spotting scope trained on the tallest tree in the vicinity. In this tree is a huge nest, home to two bald eagles and their young. A peaceful hour is spent watching one of the most spectacular birds in North America.

Every year across Iowa, Iowans are making significant contributions to wildlife conservation. Both of the volunteers described above were trained through the Iowa Department of Natural Resources Volunteer Wildlife Monitoring Program (VWMP).

Every March and April, Stephanie Shepherd, Iowa DNR wildlife diversity biologist, travels around the state to lead training workshops that prepare volunteers to collect data on some of Iowas critical wildlife.

So what are these critical wildlife species? One training workshop focuses on some of Iowas more spectacular bird species such as bald eagles, ospreys and peregrine falcons.

Volunteers are taught how to collect data on specific nesting sites around the state and submit pertinent data such as how many young birds fledge.

This data collection requires lots of patience and some good optics in order to watch the nest from a distance and not disturb the birds, Shepherd said.

Last year volunteers reported on at least 161 bald eagle nests across the state.

The second survey requires a keen ear.

Volunteers are trained to listen to and recognize the 16 species of frogs and toads in Iowa based on their breeding calls. In 2016, volunteers surveyed 55 routes which translate into roughly 400 wetland sites monitored for frog and toad activity.

The frog and toad surveyors are particularly special, because to perform the surveys they have to drive back country roads at night along a specified route which would not be everyones cup of tea, Shepherd said. This is a unique experience and opportunity to explore Iowas wild places at night.

The Volunteer Wildlife Monitoring Program provides an opportunity for adults who love the outdoors and wildlife to be directly involved with the conservation and monitoring of Iowas resources.

The work is crucial to the well-being of these species, she said.

Interested volunteers must register for and attend a training workshop. The DNR is partnering with the Kossuth, Marion, Johnson and Dickinson county conservation boards with to host workshops.

A bald eagle workshop will be held March 4 in Kossuth County near Algona.

Three frog and toad survey workshops will be held the evening of April 4 in Marion County, April 6 in Johnson County and April 11 in Dickinson County. For more information visit www.iowadnr.com/vwmp or email vwmp@dnr.iowa.gov.
The Gary Jet Center is adding a $2.5 million corporate aviation terminal to its facilities at Gary/Chicago International Airport.

The terminal will be at the Gary Jet Center's newest hangar and will replace one that is housed within its oldest hangar. It will feature a glass-walled lobby that will offer views of the west end of the main runway, which was recently expanded at a cost of $174 million.

"This Corporate Flight Center is the crowning piece in the Gary Jet Center's goal of providing the finest flight experience in the Chicago aviation market," said Wil Davis, chairman and CEO of the Gary Jet Center.

The terminal will have multiple pilots' lounges, a business center, conference room and kitchen facilities. Construction began in December and it should be completed this summer.

The new terminal appears to be an example of the development spurred by the expansion of the airport's main runway to 8,900 feet, allowing it to handle a wider range of aircraft.

In November, the Gary/Chicago International Airport authority approved plans by the airport's other fixed base operator, B. Coleman Aviation, to pursue a project that would add a $5 million, 40,000-square-foot hangar near its current facility.

The Gary Jet Center is collaborating on its project with LEE Companies, a project management firm in Gary. The new terminal was designed by international architecture firm Ghafari Associates. The interior will be designed by Partners By Design, of Chicago.

The new hangar will be a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certified structure. The hangar it is attached to was the first LEED certified building constructed in Gary.

The Gary Jet Center was founded at the airport 25 years ago. It has 110,000 square feet of hangar space. It is family owned and operated and offers fueling, charters and aircraft management, and aircraft maintenance and repair services under FAA certificates.
The Family and Social Services Administration is now accepting applications from families in Lake County who may be eligible for their children to participate in the On My Way to Pre-K program for the 2017-18 school year.

Lake County is one of five counties in the state participating in the preschool pilot program. The other counties are Allen, Jackson, Marion and Vanderburgh counties.

Applications for limited spots will be accepted until March 31. If more families qualify than there are grants available, awards will be made through a random lottery process.

Each family chosen will receive a grant of up to $6,800 to send their child to public, private or religious pre-kindergarten class. Children must be at least 4 years old by Aug. 1, and starting kindergarten in the fall.

Once a child has received a grant, families in all five counties will choose from any of the eligible, enrolled On My Way Pre-K programs. Indiana's Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning at FSSA have enrolled 262 preschool providers in the five counties, and that application process is ongoing for new providers.

Approved pre-K programs may be in a public or private school, licensed child care center, licensed home or registered ministry as long as that program meets the quality requirements and is registered as an On My Way Pre-K provider.

On My Way Pre-K is the name of Indiana's first state-funded prekindergarten program, which was approved as a five-county pilot program by the Indiana General Assembly in 2014. More than 2,700 children have participated in the program since it began in January 2015.
MICHIGAN CITY  A man actively sought for close to two months on allegations of child molesting is now in custody.

James Ashcraft, 55, had a warrant out for his arrest since Nov. 30 on two counts of child molesting. One of the counts is a level 1 felony with a sentencing range of 20 to 40 years.

He's scheduled for an initial hearing Tuesday before LaPorte Superior Court Judge Michael Bergerson.

Ashcraft is accused of deviate sexual conduct with a 6-year-old boy and fondling the same child between February and May of 2016, court records show.

On Dec. 14, the Michigan City Police Fugitive Apprehension Street Team went public with a request for help in locating Ashcraft, who resides in Hudson Lake in northeast LaPorte County.

Sgt. Brett Swanson said Ashcraft told police after he was taken into custody last week that he was in Peoria, Illinois, and decided to return to get his life back together.

"He just stated he had been there visiting and decided to come back home," Swanson said.

Swanson said there were no indications of his whereabouts until recently after tips led investigators to his residence where he was located.

"He willingly complied, and he was taken into custody safely," Swanson said.

Ashcraft could face another 2 to 12 years on the lesser felony count.
CROWN POINT  Lake County Councilman Jamal Washington intends to give up his position as vice president of the council under pressure from his fellow council members.

Washington, D-Merrillville, who still will continue as a council member representing the 3rd District, said Friday he made his decision while learning of an effort to remove him as vice president at their next meeting, now scheduled for Feb. 14.

Washington's conviction and election as vice president has roiled the county's political community since the 4-3 vote Jan. 10 that crossed party lines.

Washington pleaded guilty Dec. 8 to misdemeanor invasion of privacy and battery of his wife. He admitted pushing and hurting her during an argument in late 2015.

He is on probation under a plea bargain that dismissed felony strangulation charges, which would have forced him to leave all public offices, if convicted of them.

State Rep. Charlie Brown, D-Gary, called on Washington this week to resign as a councilman.

Councilwoman Christine Cid, D-East Chicago, said Friday she has struggled with her vote for Washington as vice president.

She said Washington had demonstrated "responsibility and accountability as it related to County Council business," but she also has been an outspoken advocate against domestic violence.

"Although I stand proud on my past votes, this vote weighs heavily on my heart and has been on my mind constantly," she stated in a news release she issued Friday afternoon.

Council President Ted Bilski, D-Hobart, who had voted against Washington Jan. 10, confirmed he and Cid have been pushing for Washingtons removal from the largely ceremonial post to run council meetings when the president is absent.

"We can't compel him to resign from the council, but we don't have to elevate him," Bilski said of Washington.

Washington said he realized the vice presidency was causing unrest among his council colleagues.

"Everyone in their life has made some kind of mistake and they learn and grow from it, as I know I will learn from mine. A vice presidency doesn't determine who I am," Washington said.

"I believe it is best that I step down to take that argument away from the people who are for the (South Shore) train, so I can focus solely on my opposition to the South Shore extension."

Washington opposes the county's $2 million-a-year contribution to the West Lake Corridor, eight miles of track between Hammond and Dyer.

Bilski said he would "support wholeheartedly" Cids nomination to become the new council vice president. Cid said Friday she wouldn't run for the position. Councilman Dan Dernulc, R-Highland, lost to Washington for vice president on Jan. 10.
CROWN POINT  A 40-year-old Hammond man pleaded guilty Friday to voluntary manslaughter, a second-degree felony, in the shooting death of Lonnie L. Williams, according to court records.

Jimmy E. Jacobs Jr. was charged Sept. 29, 2014, in Lake Criminal Court with murder in Williams' death in the 1000 block of Bauer Street in Hammond, according to a probable cause affidavit.

Jacobs allegedly shot Williams Sept. 27 at the victim's birthday party after Williams asked Jacobs to leave because he was too intoxicated, the affidavit states.

Williams, 44, was transported to Franciscan St. Margaret Health hospital in Hammond, where he was pronounced dead, according to the affidavit.

Jacobs fled the scene, but he was arrested the next day by an Indiana State Police trooper in Lebanon.

Jacobs entered his plea Friday in an agreement with the state, court records state. The murder charge was dismissed as part of the agreement.

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for Feb. 21.
VALPARAISO  The city's plans for a new bus and train station, housing and canal-like water feature have been scrapped and a smaller-scale project has been proposed after funding for the larger project fell through.

Mayor Jon Costas told the Valparaiso City Council on Monday the plan, backed by the Valparaiso Redevelopment Commission, did not receive the financial backing sought by the city and officials were moving toward another smaller plan.

The original plan was a $24 million project that called for the creation of a new bus and train station surrounded by high-density housing in the downtown area. The plan called for the relocation of two major downtown businesses  Smith Readymix and Von Tobel Lumber and Hardware.

The plan would have included the extension of Napoleon Street to the south, which now ends at Brown Street, and a canal-like water feature.

Stu Summers, executive director of the city's redevelopment commission, said the city had requested funding for the $24 million project from the Regional Development Authority, but instead received $6.8 million.

The scaled back plans include a new bus station for ChicaGo DASH and V-Line riders, with 300 parking spaces for Chicago commuters to be located near railroad tracks, Summers said.

Neither Costas nor Summers would disclose the location of the proposed development, saying letters to affected landowners were just about to be mailed. But Summers said the location would be near downtown.

Although there are no immediate plans for a train station, Summers said the city wants to be positioned to accommodate travelers in the future should commuter rail service to Chicago or high-speed rail from Chicago to Columbus materialize in the future.

"It won't be on my watch," Summers said, indicating that it's many years away.

A definite timeline for the project was not ready to be released, but Summers said a sewer line that runs under the current parking lot for the Chicago DASH riders needs to be repaired soon, so the commission is working quickly to relocate the service.

Summers said once offers to purchase the land have been sent out, the recipients will either accept or reject the offers, appraisals will be conducted of the parcels needed and environmental studies will be done on the land. Construction will begin after all of those steps are completed.

The new project comes with an estimated price tag of just over $16 million. Summers said $6.8 million will come from the RDA, $2.4 million from the Federal Transportation Administration, and about $7 million from the city.

Summers said the project is intended not only to provide a new transportation hub in the city, but to attract private development in the area.

"We will do a viable, visible, attractive improvement that we in Valparaiso can all be proud of," Summers said.
OSAGE  U.S. House of Representative Gabby Giffords, who was shot in Arizona several years ago, used music therapy to help in her recovery, said Sawyer Small.

Small recently gave a Lunch and Learn presentation on music therapy at the Cedar River Complex.

Small, a 2012 graduate of Osage High School, graduated with a music therapy degree from the University of Iowa in May 2016. He told audience members about the therapeutic benefits of music therapy in hospitals, nursing homes, schools and in private practice.

Music therapy is different from recreational music, because music therapy has research and knowledge behind it, said Small, who will intern at a health care facility in St Paul, Minnesota, for six months before he takes his board exams for licensure.

Small said the practice of music therapy has been used since the early 1950s, and research data on its effectiveness has been collected over the past 30 years. The therapy is coordinated with other therapies such as speech and physical therapy, but, It doesnt take the place of these therapies, said Small.

Music therapists have developed large clinics in metropolitan areas, which provide therapists for hospitals, schools, nursing homes and also facilitate private and group sessions. Georgia is now placing music therapists in its schools.

Small said the therapy has expanded to use in Alzheimers, heart, stroke, psychological, and surgical units in hospitals.

Small said music can be used to help reduce pain, as its sounds can grab the brains attention and override the neurological signals being sent from the pain-producing area.

Agitated people can also be calmed by music and it promotes relaxation, said Small. It can slow breathing in COPD patients and it promotes sleep.

He said other benefits of music therapy include an increase in a persons attention span, increased communication and self-esteem. Rhythms can calm a persons heart rate, slow breathing, arouse the nervous system and activate muscles. Music can captivate attention, stimulate mental images, create motivation, improve endurance, aid in memory, produce positive mental images, and increase endorphins, he said.

Music is way to express our beliefs and values, and it can be used to express emotions and help to control them, said Small. It stimulates both sides of the brain, and can help us learn.

Music therapy is also used by those in the mental health field, where it is used to motivate individuals to express themselves and help people find meaning in life.

Often we can hear a song which we can associate with some previous event, perhaps a song a mother sung with a child, which develops a deep bond, he said. I can remember my mother singing with me.

An example of how a musical therapist works with stroke patients is to teach stroke victims to strum on an auto-harp. After a patient masters this repetitive motion on the instrument, he can then use the same motion to brush hair, brush teeth and use a spoon.

Small writes his own songs or inserts his own lyrics into familiar tunes to assist clients. During his training, Small developed a game in which he used the familiar tune, Take Me Out to the Ball Game.

He inserted the word share the ball into the familiar lyrics. The children he was assisting were to pass a ball around the circle whenever the word ball was sung. The exercise was to teach children how to share, which was doubly enforced through their singing as well as their actions.

Small, an accomplished musician who has recorded and sung in several bands, played his guitar and shared some lyrics, demonstrating how rhythm and lyrics might be used in an actual therapy session.

He also said more and more research is proving the great benefits derived from the use of music therapy.
INDIANAPOLIS  Democrats will unveil an alternative road funding plan in the coming days that aims to minimize the highway tolling, fuel tax hikes and vehicle registration fee increases being sought by Republicans.

House Democratic Leader Scott Pelath, D-Michigan City, isn't yet revealing exactly what the proposal includes, but he told reporters that it mostly relies on spending part of Indiana's $2 billion budget reserve and postponing tax cuts that haven't taken effect.

"The priorities up to this point have been for the General Assembly to hand out tax cuts to a few, but now in order to fix the problem we're seeing a proposal for tax increases for the many," Pelath said.

One example Pelath noted: Indiana is on track to reduce the 6.25 percent corporate income tax rate to 4.9 percent over the next five years, costing the state hundreds of millions of dollars even as motorists face the prospect of increased pain at the pump.

"One thing I'm hearing quite frequently is why are they asking for a tax increase when we have all this money laying around?" Pelath said. "We want to show ways that this could be done without the types of tax increases that they are proposing."

In addition, the Democratic road funding plan is expected to be more focused on aiding local government infrastructure, since Pelath said the state only can take on so many construction projects at once.

House Speaker Brian Bosma, R-Indianapolis, is skeptical that anything other than the revenue measures in House Bill 1002, sponsored by state Rep. Ed Soliday, R-Valparaiso, will include enough money to meet the projected average annual need of $1.2 billion for the next 20 years.

"I think the average Hoosier will tell you that our roads are not in good shape," Bosma said. "The investment in roads is entirely consistent with making Indiana the job creation center of the United States."

Pelath replied that Bosma might want to double-check the Hoosier response to the Republican proposal for higher taxes, fees and tolling at places other than the usual GOP haunts.

"It is the type of plan that when you walk into the country club you're going to have someone walk up with a cocktail and compliment you on your courage," he said. "But when you get outside of the country club and down to the diner, you're probably going to get a little different reaction."
INDIANAPOLIS  President Donald Trump's executive order threatening to strip federal grants from so-called "sanctuary cities" should not impact any Hoosier municipalities.

Since 2011, Indiana law has prohibited local governments from refusing to cooperate with federal immigration authorities to protect non-citizens who entered or remained in the United States without legal permission.

State Sen. Mike Delph, R-Carmel, the sponsor of that statute, said he's pleased it will save Indiana communities from possibly losing federal funds under Trump's executive order, which Delph enthusiastically supports.

"I applaud the president's strong show of leadership in protecting American citizens," he said.

The Chicago City Council and Democratic Mayor Rahm Emanuel reaffirmed Chicago's status as a "sanctuary city" Wednesday, shortly after the Republican president signed his executive order.

It's not yet known how much money the Illinois city might lose by bucking Trump's plan to aggressively enforce the nation's immigration laws.
East Chicago Mayor Anthony Copeland said Friday in a radio interview the city has not yet received data from the Environmental Protection Agency about lead in drinking water at some homes, but he downplayed a media blackout and freeze on contracts and grants imposed on the agency by the Trump administration.

In an appearance on WJOB, Copeland said he views the temporary freeze at the EPA as an assessment period, and his team is waiting for it to be lifted.

He also suggested the agency might have "got a pause button," in part, because of sequential water testing it recently conducted in East Chicago showing elevated lead levels at 18 homes.

"They came, they did a test they hadn't usually used before," Copeland said. "It was new technology, and we, as we speak, are waiting on them to give us the final data on what they collected."

Copeland did not respond to requests Friday asking him to clarify his comments.

Copeland told WJOB the city is in full compliance with the federal Lead and Copper Rule, which limits the amount of lead and copper allowed in drinking water.

Virginia Tech professor Marc Edwards, the scientist who helped shed light on elevated lead levels in Flint, Michigan, recently told The Times sequential testing is accepted as the gold standard throughout the industry.

"The testing that was done is exactly what you have to do to discover the nature of a problem that might be causing lead poisoning," Edwards said.

EPA has said sequential testing, which is not required under the Lead and Copper Rule, was intended to detect lead levels in individual homes. Testing the city conducts under the Lead and Copper Rule is designed to detect high lead levels in the entire system, Chris Korleski, EPA Region 5 water division director, said in an interview Jan. 9.

EPA conducted the pilot study to determine if excavation of lead- and arsenic-contaminated soil at the USS Lead Superfund site in the city's Calumet neighborhood might cause lead in older water service lines to become dislodged and enter the drinking water supply. The lead in the water is not related to lead in the soil.

EPA Acting Region 5 Administrator Robert Kaplan said in a letter to U.S. Rep. Pete Visclosky, D-Merrillville, dated Jan. 3, that there are two reasons drinking water at 18 of 43 homes tested had lead levels above the EPA's action level of 15 parts per billion: "the presence of lead in plumbing materials, and insufficient orthophosphate levels in the drinking water system."

"Public drinking water systems commonly add orthophosphate to drinking water as a corrosion inhibitor to prevent lead and copper from leaching from pipes and fixtures," Kaplan wrote. "EPA's initial drinking water sampling detected low or no orthophosphate levels."

Korleski said EPA considered the tests in the Calumet neighborhood to be representative of the entire water system. EPA and the city have said no additional tests are planned.

East Chicago began using an orthophosphate-polyphosphate blend last fall and is working to secure funding to replace lead service lines, according to documents filed before the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission.

Copeland spoke to WJOB along with East Chicago Housing Authority Executive Director Tia Cauley and Health Department manager Arnita Fowlkes.

Two-thirds of the more than 300 families at West Calumet Housing Complex have moved out, Cauley said. They have until March 31 to relocate.

More than 2,016 children and adults have had their blood tested for lead since residents first learned last summer of the magnitude of contamination in the soil at the complex. About 10 percent of children tested have elevated blood lead levels, Fowlkes said.

Copeland also said he met with Gov. Eric Holcomb on Thursday in Indianapolis and hopes the new governor's adminstration might be more open to helping East Chicago. Vice President Mike Pence rejected the city's request for an emergency declaration in December, just before leaving the governor's office.

"They say when one door closes, another door opens," Copeland said, declining to go into detail. "I will reveal things as they reveal themselves."
WASHINGTON  Setting a hard-line tone on national security, President Donald Trump on Friday suspended the nation's refugee program for four months, aiming to keep "radical Islamic terrorists" out of the United States.

Trump traveled to the Pentagon, where he joined Defense Secretary Jim Mattis for the signing of an executive action to bring sweeping changes to the nation's refugee policies and put in motion his plans to build up the nation's military.

"We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas," he said. "We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people."

The order was signed on Trump's most robust day of national security and foreign policy at the start of his presidency, marked by a meeting with British Prime Minister Theresa May and a lengthy phone call with Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto.

During his election campaign against Hillary Clinton, Trump pledged to put in place "extreme vetting" procedures to screen people coming to the U.S. from countries with terrorism ties. The order imposes a 120-day suspension of the entire U.S. Refugee Admissions Program and a 90-day ban on all entry to the United States from countries with terrorism concerns.

The State Department said the three-month ban in the directive applied to Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen  all Muslim majority nations.

The order also halts entry to the U.S. by Syrian refugees until the president determines that changes to the refugee assistance program ensure that admitting them won't compromise national security.

The order makes no mention of a plan to provide safe zones in Syria and the surrounding area. A draft of the order had directed the Pentagon and the State Department to produce a plan for safe zones in the war-torn Mideast nation.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations, or CAIR, said it would file a federal lawsuit Monday challenging the constitutionality of the executive order.

"There is no evidence that refugees  the most thoroughly vetted of all people entering our nation  are a threat to national security," said CAIR National Litigation Director Lena F. Masri. "This is an order that is based on bigotry, not reality."

Trump also signed a presidential memorandum on "rebuilding" the U.S. Armed Forces, giving Mattis 30 days to conduct a "readiness" review and report back on steps that can be taken this year to improve conditions.

Joined earlier in the day at the White House by May, the British prime minister, Trump reaffirmed the United States' "special relationship" with Great Britain.

But he was also asked about more contentious issues, including his recent statements that torture "does work" in prying information out of terror suspects. Giving ground, he said his defense secretary's opposition would override his own belief. Hours later he stood at the Pentagon as Mattis, the retired general, was sworn in as the military's chief.

Trump was also pressed on whether he would revert back to Bush-era use of torture, in the news since The Associated Press and other news organizations obtained copies of a draft executive order signaling sweeping changes to U.S. interrogation and detention policy.

Trump said he would defer to the views of Mattis, who has questioned the effectiveness of such practices as waterboarding, which simulates drowning.

"He has stated publicly that he does not necessarily believe in torture or waterboarding, or however you want to define it. ... I don't necessarily agree. But I would tell you that he will override because I'm giving him that power. He's an expert," Trump said.

The draft order, which the White House said was not official, also would reverse Obama's effort to close the military detention center at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba  a place Trump has said he wants to fill up "with bad dudes."

The draft also requests recommendations on whether the U.S. should reopen CIA detention facilities outside the United States. Critics said the clandestine sites have marred America's image on the world stage.

Trump held firm Friday on another controversy  trade and illegal immigration from Mexico. He told reporters at a joint news conference with May that he had a "very good call" with Pena Nieto earlier in the day, but he reaffirmed his belief that Mexico has "outnegotiated and beat us to a pulp" on trade  and that would change.

"We're no longer going to be the country that doesn't know what it's doing," he declared a day after the Mexican leader canceled his visit to Washington in response to Trump's plans to build a border wall and have Mexico pay for it.

While the refugee actions are aimed at thwarting terrorists, the border wall is more for keeping out immigrants trying to enter the U.S. for economic reasons  though Trump has continually also raised concerns about criminals flowing north.

The flurry of national security moves and foreign policy outreach capped a hectic first week for Trump at the White House, giving Americans an initial look at how he intends to position the United States around the globe.

Trump, who met with the Joint Chiefs of Staff at the Pentagon, has the authority to determine how many refugees are accepted annually, and he can suspend the program at any time. Refugee processing was suspended in the immediate aftermath of the Sept. 11 attacks and restarted months later.

During the past budget year, the U.S. accepted 84,995 refugees, including 12,587 people from Syria. President Barack Obama had set the refugee limit for this budget year at 110,000.

Trump, according to the executive order, plans to cut that to 50,000. The order says that while the program is suspended, the U.S. may admit people on a case-by-case basis when "in the national interest" and the government will continue to process refugee requests from people claiming religious persecution, "provided that the religion of the individual is a minority religion in the individual's country." That suggests it would allow the admission of Christians from Muslim-majority countries.

In an interview with CBN News, Trump said persecuted Christians would be given priority in applying for refugee status. "We are going to help them," Trump said. "They've been horribly treated."

Applauded by some in his own party, Trump's refugee action was strongly criticized by some Democrats.

"Tears are running down the cheeks of the Statue of Liberty tonight as a grand tradition of America, welcoming immigrants, that has existed since America was founded has been stomped upon," said Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York.

Trump's order was signed on Holocaust Remembrance Day, which brought to mind the global effort to help refugees during World War II and its aftermath.

On another international issue, Trump is expected on Saturday to speak by phone with Russian President Vladimir Putin. During the news conference with May, he was asked if he was considering lifting U.S. sanctions against Russia. But Trump was noncommittal, saying, "We'll see what happens. As far as the sanctions, very early to be talking about that."

Obama's administration and the European Union slapped Moscow with sanctions for its annexation of Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula and support for a pro-Russia insurgency in eastern Ukraine. Relations have plunged to post-Cold War lows over Ukraine, Putin's backing of Syrian President Bashar Assad and allegations of Russian meddling in the U.S. elections.

May, for her part, said the United Kingdom supports continuing the sanctions for now.
LONDON  Both anger and support erupted in Europe on Saturday about U.S. President Donald Trump's ban on refugees entering the United States.

The French president vigorously urged European leaders to present a united front against populism while the German foreign minister noted that "love thy neighbor" is a key part of America's Christian traditions. Turkey's prime minister insisted that "you cannot settle this issue by building walls."

In Israel, meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu greeted Trump's plan to build a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border as a "great idea."

___

FRENCH PRESIDENT FRANCOIS HOLLANDE

"Europe is facing a moment of truth. The issue is populism. What we are hearing from the U.S. encourages populism and even extremism. They are saying that Europe should not take immigrants, shouldn't stay together, not believe in climate change.

"We should engage in discussions (with the U.S.) that sometimes should be very firm. And as long as there are statements from the U.S. president about Europe, when he speaks about the model of Brexit for other countries, when the U.S. president talks about climate change ... saying he's not convinced of it, we should respond to him. When he takes protectionist measures, we should respond to him. When he destabilizes the economies of other countries, not only European ones, we should respond to him. When he rejects the arrival of refugees, while Europe has done its duty, we should respond to him."

___

ISRAEL PRESIDENT BENJAMIN NETANYAHU

Netanyahu tweeted that Israel's wall along its border with Egypt had stemmed a swell of African migrants: "President Trump is right. I built a wall along Israel's southern border. It stopped all illegal immigration. Great success. Great idea."

___

TURKISH PRIME MINISTER BINALI YILDIRIM

"You cannot settle this (refugee) issue by building walls. Nobody leaves their homes for nothing."

Turkey has admitted some 3 million Syrian refugees since the start of the war in its neighbor.

"They came here to save their lives and our doors were open. And if the same thing happened again, we would do it again."

___

GERMAN FOREIGN MINISTER SIGMAR GABRIEL

"'Love thy neighbor' is part of this tradition, the act of helping others."

___

FRENCH FOREIGN MINISTER JEAN-MARC AYRAULT

"We have signed international obligations, so welcoming refugees fleeing war and oppression forms part of our duties."

___

BRITISH PRIME MINISTER THERESA MAY

"The United States is responsible for the United States' policy on refugees."

___

FAR-RIGHT DUTCH POPULIST GEERT WILDERS

In a tweet, the Dutch anti-Islam populist Wilders, whose Party for Freedom is polling strongly ahead of the country's March 15 election, says: "No immigrants from Islamic countries."
The myth is that heart disease is a male-related malady. The myth is that womens hearts are protected by their hormones. The myth is that female heart disease is age-related, only striking older, post-menopausal women.

The myth is a killer.

Since 1984, more women have died from heart disease than men, says Diane Kemp, executive director of the Northwest Indiana chapter of the American Heart Association. Heart disease is the number one killer of all women over the age of 25.

Want more myth busters?

Forty-three million women in America have heart disease, Kemp continues. One in every three female deaths is related to heart disease. One woman dies every minute from heart disease.

These facts are the hammer that Kemp and the Go Red for Women campaign are using to smash the myths that are killing Americas women.

Lack of education and information can be deadly to women, Kemp says. We are caregivers. We are taking care of husbands, kids and parents. We are the eye of the needle, keeping it all from coming unraveled. But we arent always taking care of ourselves the same way we take care of others.

In 2003, the increase in womens heart disease rose to the forefront. In 2004, the AHA launched Go Red, with the following goals: to increase awareness; to share information on prevention, risk and warning signs; and to reduce the death rate.

One critical piece of good news that has been learned through Go Red research is that 80 percent of cardiac events can be prevented through education and lifestyle changes.

Genetics can result in a certain predisposition, Kemp says, but lifestyle changes and behavior modifications can have a much larger impact on womens heart disease. Thats huge.

Its why women need to take charge of their heart health.

We have to become much more assertive regarding our heart health, Kemp explains. We need to know our numbers regarding blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose. And we shouldnt wait to see a cardiologist. Our OB/GYN or primary care physician can run blood tests that provide an update to these numbers. We need to have these checked regularly.

Go Red has made an incredible difference in womens lives. Thanks to the work of Go Red and the AHA, womens death from heart disease has been reduced by 30 percent in the last ten years.

Those life-saving numbers and facts are why we need to get involved and stay involved, Kemp says.

The 2017 National Go Red campaign will kick off on Feb. 3. Individuals all across the nation will wear red in support and to raise awareness, and corporations will host wellness initiatives to help share information and frequently provide screenings.

Locally, Go Red will kick off on Feb. 16 with a corporate event at Valparaiso University, and on April 7, Franciscan Health will present a Go Red wellness promotion in Michigan City. Screenings will be provided at both events, keynote speakers will discuss their journey back to health, and vendor receptions will educate attendees on the latest ways to combat heart disease.

On May 4, the Northwest Indiana Go Red Educational Symposium will be held at Avalon Manor in Merrillville. The keynote speaker will enlighten the audience with facts and figures regarding the battle against womens heart disease, and a speaker will inspire the audience with her personal story of survival. Guests will enjoy a heart-healthy luncheon, makeup tips from Macys, giveaways and health screenings, and vendor engagement will round out the activities.

Go Red for Women has made significant strides in the battle against heart disease since its inception. But the battle is far from over. There are still myths to be busted, women to be saved.

Were going in the right direction, Kemp says, but we still have a long way to go.
One of at least a dozen refugees has been released after being detained at Kennedy Airport. This comes after President Trump bans refugees from majority-Muslim countries from entering the U.S.

Hameed Khalid Darweesh was one of at least two men who were airborne on a flight to the city, and later detained, when Trump signed his executive order yesterday.

Darweesh, was traveling with his wife and children when he was detained last night. He has a valid U.S. visa and was released Saturday afternoon.

"I want to thank the people that take care of me and they support me," Darweesh said after his release. "And they leave their family, their business and come to support me. This is the humanity. This is the soul of America. This is what pushed me to move, leave my country and come here."

Congressman Jerry Nadler said there are at least 11 other refugees currently being detained at the airport. It is unclear how many of the other detainees were on the same flight as Darweesh.

"One by one, street by street, if we gotta go to court, we will fight this any place anywhere," said Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez. But we will bring justice to the immigration system in this country."

The President says his executive order will keep out what he calls "radical Islamic terrorists."

Migrants from seven predominantly Muslim nations are barred from entering the United States for at least 90 days.

Refugees from war-torn Syria have been banned indefinitely.

The move is already sparking international backlash.

Iranian media reports the country will "retaliate" against the United States.

Velazquez, who represents parts of Manhattan, Queens and Brooklyn, and Nadler, who represents parts of Manhattan and Brooklyn  are at JFK airport in an effort to pressure the authorities to release the detainees.

Velazquez spoke to us by phone from the airport.
Some people fear that with these arrivals La Pedrera risks losing its appeal. But development has been quite slow, partly because to drive there from Punta del Este, the hub of the Uruguayan Riviera, involves a roundabout route that takes about 90 minutes. The most direct path between the two locations, a panoramic coastal highway, is interrupted by the Garzon and Rocha Lagoons. While cars can cross the Garzon Lagoon on a shabby raft that carries up to four vehicles at a time, a process that is both impractical and anachronistically charming, right now theres no way across the larger Rocha Lagoon. (Bridges would make the trip from Punta del Este about half as long.)

Still, its relative isolation was  and is  a large part of the appeal. One of La Pedreras most notable pioneers was Julio Bocca, the renowned Argentine ballet dancer. He rented a house there about a decade ago, and within days was found by paparazzi, who chronicled his every move for gossip magazines and generated buzz about the village. Undeterred, Mr. Bocca has returned to Rocha many times over the years. Its a wonderful place, he said. The beaches are gorgeous, and the quiet nights are incredible.

More privacy can be found farther north. Five miles up the coast from La Pedrera is San Antonio, a settlement of about 30 houses thats lined with sandbanks and is reportedly attracting Argentine actors and artists who want to escape the limelight. This is the kind of place that people discover only through word of mouth, said David Tezanos Pinto, owner of Posada San Antonio, a rough-hewn but chic four-room guesthouse that opened in late 2005. Mr. Tezanos Pinto, who divides his time between Rocha and Buenos Aires, was one of the first foreigners to arrive in the area. When he bought the property  an old carpentry shop surrounded by a eucalyptus forest  there were no real roads, only paths carved by the occasional utility vehicle.

My wife and I traveled all over the world looking for a place to build a small inn and change our lifestyle, he said. The combination of countryside and beach was what really attracted us. The posada has a restaurant  the only one in San Antonio  with a rotating menu that typically includes freshly caught fish. Theres also a small pool, made out of a round cattle tank and, less than a half-mile away, a seemingly endless beach.

Going north again youll find Posada Buscavida on a barely populated stretch of coast called Oceania del Polonio. It is the first and most secluded boutique lodging in Rocha, with 10 austere rooms and a not-so-austere clubhouse, where guests can lounge on oversize white sofas and order perfect fried calamari, or walk a few steps to the beach bar and sip a chilled martini bianco on a hammock.

Buscavida, which is open in the Southern Hemispheres summer, can arrange horseback rides to nearby Cabo Polonio, perhaps Rochas most emblematic site. El Cabo, as locals call it, is a protected sand-dune reserve with no roads, no electricity, hundreds of sea lions and a dozen or so shacks, many painted in bright colors. In January and February, the warmest months, Cabo Polonio fills with visitors who come to experience beach life as it was hundreds of years ago.
Crime Stoppers of the Quad Cities and the Rock Island County Sheriffs Department are asking for the community's help in identifying suspects they think may be responsible for starting a home on fire Sunday that left an elderly woman injured.

Around 4:20 a.m. Sunday, deputies and the Moline Fire Department were called to the 4000 block of 13th Street, known as the Fruitland area, where a home was engulfed in fire.

A large boom was heard by neighbors seconds before the home went up in flames, according to a news release.

Two adults and a juvenile were able to escape, but an 88-year-old woman was trapped in the home, according to the news release. Moline firefighters were able to rescue the woman, who was taken to University Hospitals, Iowa City.

Her condition was not available Friday, but police say she is "fighting for her life."

Police are looking for an older white Buick with front passenger-side damage. Two males ran from the scene and got into the vehicle. They may have started the fire.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Crime Stoppers tip line 309-762-9500. Callers will remain anonymous and will receive up to $1,000 cash if the information helps lead to an arrest.
Four men were arrested following a shooting Wednesday night in Davenport that left one man with non-life-threatening gunshot wounds.

Arrested were:

 Salem Awbrey Jurski, 24, of Davenport, charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and trafficking stolen weapons. Bond was set Thursday at $5,000 cash-only.

 Gary Glenn Williams, 26, of Davenport, charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm or offensive weapon. He posted $5,000 through a bail bond company and was released from the Scott County Jail.

 Clemmie Roy Kirk Jr., 22, of Davenport, charged with possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and drug tax stamp violation. He posted $5,000 through a bail bond company and was released from jail.

 Dillon Jeremy Reyes, 24, of Bettendorf, charged with interference with official acts. He posted $300 through a bail bond company and was released from the jail.

Around 10:30 p.m. Wednesday, Davenport police responded to Genesis Medical Center-East Rusholme Street, Davenport, for a report of a 33-year-old man with gunshot injuries.

The man said the shooting occurred at Frick's Tap, 1402 W. Third St. Information developed during the preliminary investigation led to a traffic stop around 1:15 a.m. in the 700 block of Fillmore Street on a vehicle occupied by possible suspects in the shooting, Capt. Brent Biggs said in a news release.

Jurski, who was in the back seat, was in possession of a black Smith & Wesson .40-caliber pistol that he knew was stolen out of Bettendorf in July, according to arrest affidavits filed Thursday.

Police also found seven pieces of .22-caliber REM ammunition in his front pocket, according to the affidavits. He has prior convictions for possessing a firearm as a felon.

Williams was in possession of a loaded Premier Model .22-caliber revolver that was concealed in a purple liquor bag, according to the affidavits. He discarded the handgun while making contact with police, according to affidavits.

He has a prior conviction for trafficking in stolen vehicles.

According to the affidavits, Reyes tried to flee on foot when stopped by police.

Kirk, the driver, was detained and taken to the police station to be interviewed. He was searched prior to the interview and was found to be in possession of multiple pills, including the sedative Alprazolam, and about 13.15 grams of marijuana, according to the affidavits.

He did not have a prescription for the pills, according to the affidavits.

At the time of his arrest, Jurski was wanted on a charge of willful injury causing bodily injury for an unrelated incident.

In that case, Jurski is accused of knowingly and willingly striking a man with a motor vehicle and hitting him in the face with his fists in November.

He also was wanted on a probation violation stemming from a 2015 possession of a firearm by a felon case.
VIENNA  Austria has shut its door to about 300 non-Muslim Iranians hoping to use the country as a way station before establishing new homes in the United States, The Associated Press has learned. The action is an early ripple effect of U.S. President Donald Trumps effort to clamp down on refugee admissions.

Under a 27-year-old program originally approved by Congress to help Jews in the former Soviet Union, Austria had been serving until recently as a conduit for Iranian Jews, Christians and Bahai, who were at risk in their home country and eligible to resettle in the United States. Iran has banned the Bahai religion, which was founded in 1844 by a Persian nobleman considered a prophet by followers.

U.S. officials had been interviewing the candidates in Austria because they cannot do so in Iran. But the United States suspended the so-called Iranian Lautenberg Program in recent days, according to Austrian officials, who in turn stopped Iranians from reaching their territory. Its unclear when the program might restart.

The episode isnt directly linked to an executive order Trump signed Friday that orders strict new screening for refugees to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States. But it reflects the knock-on effects already occurring from his tougher line on immigration and refugees. Similar to how tighter German migration rules had consequences across Europe, Trumps actions could lead other nations to take a harder look at people wishing to use their territories as transit points.

The net result could be even tougher conditions for people hoping to escape war and persecution for a better life abroad. There are more than 20 million refugees worldwide, according to the United Nations.

Austrian Foreign Ministry spokesman Thomas Schnoell said the Alpine country acted after U.S. authorities told us that the onward trip for people to the U.S.A., who received visas from Austrian authorities as part of the program, would be put on hold for now.

A State Department email sent Tuesday said the Austrian government had electronically canceled its visas for applicants who hadnt yet reached Austria. If they try to reach Austria anyway, they will be permanently blocked from Austria, according to the email, which was obtained by AP.

Schnoell said the move affects about 300 Iranians with visas waiting to enter Austria. He said about 100 of them had been tracked down and informed that they can no longer do so. The search continues for the rest through airline ticket bookings and other means, Schnoell said.

Other officials said a small number of Iranians with such short-term visas already were in Austria. It wasnt immediately clear what would happen with them.

The end of the program, named for former Sen. Frank Lautenberg of New Jersey, could have broad implications for religious minorities in Iran.

The Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society says on its website that ending the U.S.-Austrian partnership puts people seeking religious freedom in danger and sends the wrong message about the pervasive violations of religious freedom in Iran.

Trump is expected to pause the flow of all refugees to the U.S. and indefinitely bar those fleeing war-torn Syria. The presidents upcoming order is also expected to suspend issuing visas for people from several predominantly Muslim countries  Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen  for at least 30 days, according to a draft executive order obtained by the AP.

Cancellation of the U.S. program could mean Iranians arriving in Austria with temporary visas would seek asylum in Austria. Immigration is a highly sensitive issue throughout Europe, which is struggling to deal with hundreds of thousands of people from Syria, North Africa and beyond.

Austria, a nation of fewer than 9 million people, is already strained by efforts to accommodate and integrate more than 100,000 migrants who have flowed in since 2015.
MANILA, Philippines  When Lizel Torreras, 35, became pregnant with her third child, she mixed a tincture of bitter herbs and mahogany bark, a home remedy said to induce abortion. Her husband, who worked as a garbage scavenger, did not make enough money to buy a regular supply of birth control pills, much less raise another child.

With just two kids, we were already struggling, she said. The children were going to have a hard time. We might not have been able to send them to school.

But after three attempts, Torreras, a churchgoing Catholic, could not bring herself to drink the potion.

Like millions of other women in the Philippines who have no access to contraception, Torreras had the baby. Then another one.

This month, the Philippine president, Rodrigo Duterte, signed an executive order calling for the full and immediate enforcement of a 2012 law that would give 6 million women like Torreras free government-distributed contraception and reproductive health services.

Duterte portrayed the order as an anti-poverty measure, with an official calling it pro-life, pro-women, pro-children and pro-economic development.

But the order was also Dutertes latest jab at the Roman Catholic Church, which wields significant power in the Philippines and has fought for years to keep the law from taking effect.

Under the law, government agencies will provide modern family planning services, including free contraceptives and prenatal care to all women and families. The measure also mandates that sex education be taught in schools and that companies offer reproductive health services to their employees.

But the law, which took more than 13 years to be passed by Congress before being signed into law in 2012, has yet to fully take effect, a testament to the power of the Catholic Church, anti-contraception groups and allied lawmakers.

The church and other contraception opponents filed petitions with the Supreme Court, which issued several rulings blocking parts of the law. The court continues to prevent the Health Department from procuring, distributing or selling birth control implants, a ban that womens health groups fear could be extended to the pill and other forms of hormonal birth control when existing certifications expire in 2018.

Last year, Congress cut the Health Departments budget for contraceptives, citing the court order halting the distribution of implants. Local agencies have administered the law differently in different districts, and sex education in particular has varied widely by school district. This month, Vicente Sotto III, the Senate majority leader, vowed to stop the distribution of condoms in high schools, arguing that they encouraged promiscuity.

The battle is not over, but Dutertes order provides clear guidance to government agencies and local health officials that they should uphold the law, eliminating some of the ambiguity the various court decisions have caused. And while the church still opposes the law in principle, it has scaled back its public campaign against it. Two archbishops, in interviews, acknowledged defeat.

The Duterte administration says it can provide desperately needed services that are vital to lifting millions of people out of poverty. It estimates that there are 6 million women, 2 million of whom are poor, who do not have access to modern forms of contraception.

Dutertes order aims to achieve zero unmet need for family planning by 2018, helping to meet his goal of reducing the poverty rate to 14 percent by the end of his administration in 2022, down from the 2015 level of 21.6 percent.

Sex education, advocates say, has been a failure. The Philippines is the only country in Asia where teenage pregnancy increased over the past two decades, according to the U.N. Population Fund.

A lot of the existing education in the Philippines is abstinence only, and this contributes to teenage pregnancy, said Hope Basiao-Abella, project coordinator for Likhaan, a nongovernmental organization dedicated to womens health.

Stephanie, 15, is the kind of teenager Basiao-Abella has in mind. She has a month-old daughter, and says she did not know that sex could result in pregnancy.

She has learned the hard way and says she will get an intrauterine device from Likhaan, which distributes free birth control using private funds and cooperation from the Health Department, as soon as she heals from the birth.

I dont want any more children, Stephanie said. It hurts too much.

Dutertes executive order is not his first clash with the church in his seven months in office.

He has called the church the most hypocritical institution, accusing priests and bishops of graft, corruption and taking mistresses. He called Pope Francis a son of a whore (and later apologized), openly accused the church of pedophilia and claimed to have been sexually abused by a priest as a teenager.

And he has accused the church of doing nothing to combat drugs, which he sees as the countrys biggest problem.

For its part, the church has opposed his push to reinstate the death penalty and has begun to publicly criticize his anti-drug campaign, which has left more than 3,600 people dead.

We will continue to oppose those because they are inhuman, said Archbishop Ramon Arguelles of Lipa.

He added, of Duterte, I think whether he knows it or not, whenever we do anything bad, you are the tool of the devil. If you bring harm to others, you are the devils tool.

Priests across the Philippines have urged citizens to speak out against the killings in the drug campaign. In the days before Christmas, the Redemptorist Church of Baclaran in Manila mounted a photo exhibition of its victims, blood-soaked corpses strewn in the streets and grieving families, aimed to prick a sense of outrage among churchgoers.

Fighting the church is not without risk. More than 80 percent of Filipinos identify as Catholic, and the church was instrumental in toppling two presidents, Ferdinand Marcos in 1986 and Joseph Estrada in 2001.

But Duterte appears to be winning this fight. Rather than repelling Catholics with his sacrilegious outbursts, his willingness to confront the church has endeared him to Filipinos.

According to a pair of 2016 polls by Pulse Asia, 86 percent of Filipinos support government-supported reproductive health services, and 55 percent want the administration to prioritize programs to combat poverty.

While the church may have lost this battle, Arguelles says Duterte has not won the war.

He said he was going to destroy the church, the archbishop said. The only thing I can tell him is that Hitler tried to do that, Bismarck tried to do that, Napoleon tried to do that. The church is still there, all these people are gone.
SANTA ANA  An Anaheim man was sentenced Friday to 55 years to life in prison for sexually assaulting two underage female relatives multiple times over several years.

Joel Guerrerojasso, 36, was also ordered to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.

Orange County Superior Court Judge Gregg Prickett rejected the defendants request to have some of the punishment run concurrently. The defendant took advantage of a special position of trust and the victims were particularly vulnerable, the judge said.

Guerrerojasso was convicted Dec. 28 of two counts of lewd or lascivious acts with a minor younger than 14, and one count each of lewd acts on a child ages 14 or 15 and forcible oral copulation, all felonies. Jurors also found true sentencing enhancements for multiple victims.

The oldest girl turned 17 just as the defendant was arrested in September of last year, according to Deputy District Attorney Mena Guirguis. The other girl was 12.

The older girl remembers her (relative) molesting and abusing her since she was 8 years old, Guirguis told jurors. It started when she was in the third grade  and it never stopped.

By the time she was in seventh grade, the defendant was also showing the girl pornographic videos on his phone while encouraging her to engage in sexual activity, the prosecutor said.

Guerrerojasso would corner the girl when her mother was not around and even threatened to have her quinceanera party canceled if she didnt comply with his sexual demands, Guirguis said.

He held that (party) hostage unless the girl would escalate the sexual activity, the prosecutor said.

When Guerrerojasso was arrested, he confessed to trying to have sex with the two girls, Guirguis said.

The younger victim denied anything happened when first questioned by social workers and police, Guirguis said. Last August, however, investigators interviewed her again and she finally disclosed that she, too, was molested by the defendant, Guirguis said.

Defense attorney Jay Moorhead conceded that his client may have been guilty of some of the crimes, but not all of them. He told jurors at the onset of the trial to listen to inconsistencies, vagaries as to times, places and details when the girls testified.

Moorhead acknowledged his client made a full confession to police but added, Keep in mind the interview is done in English and the defendant speaks broken English.
Within the next couple months, San Bernardino will exit Chapter 9 municipal bankruptcy in a condition very similar to how it entered: a poor city burdened with excessive pension debt.

Because San Bernardino, like Vallejo and Stockton before it, opted not to pursue pension cuts in bankruptcy, costs are certain to rise and theres a high risk of a Chapter 18 repeat trip through federal court.

In a new report, we argue that municipal bankruptcy is more effective when state governments take control of the process.

In states which have taken over cities before letting them go bankrupt, insolvent cities have faced up to their pension problems in a way that Stockton, Vallejo and San Bernardino did not.

California, by contrast, does almost nothing for cities on the brink of insolvency.

This should change. Instead of passing the buck to local officials on the toughest, chips-are-down bankruptcy decisions, state government should appoint receivers to manage cities bankruptcies for them.

Reform is urgent in California because of the many pockets of severe fiscal weakness that may be found throughout the state. Sixteen California cities with a population above 50,000 have a poverty rate above 25 percent. (The statewide poverty rate is 16.3 percent.) According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 10 out of the 15 metro areas with the highest unemployment are located in California.

The most recent data from the Census Bureau show that California local governments debt load has steadily risen over the last four decades and now stands at 100 percent of annual revenues, a near-historic peak.

California cities pension costs, which have been rising since the dotcom bubble burst in 2001, are about to surge still higher, thanks to last months vote by CalPERS board of directors to lower the systems investment rate of return from 7.5 to 7 percent. The less a citys pension system reaps in stock market gains, the more it must contribute from its budget.

Across the nation, many cities are challenged by excessive poverty and debt levels and pension costs. What is distinctive to California is Sacramentos notably hands-off approach towards municipal insolvency.

Shortly before Central Falls, Rhode Island and Detroit, Michigan filed for bankruptcy in 2011 and 2013, respectively, their state governments appointed receivers with full control over fiscal and administrative affairs. Unlike in the three California bankruptcies, all of which were managed by local officials, neither Central Falls nor Detroit left pensions untouched. A 2015 Moodys report estimated that Central Falls cut its pension claims by 39 percent and Detroit by 18 percent, compared with 0 percent for Stockton, Vallejo and San Bernardino.

Since Vallejo exited bankruptcy in the fall of 2011, its pension bill has risen by more than half. In the current fiscal year, Stockton was contributing about 50 percent of salary for its public safety workers pensions, up from 30 percent when it first filed for bankruptcy.

These outcomes may have been avoided had California followed the Rhode Island and Michigan models.

Adopting what we call an intervention bankruptcy approach will require ideological concessions for both the left and the right. Left-leaning state officials will have to acknowledge that an insolvent city implies a failure of state policy. They, or their appointee, will have to face up to the choice between funding basic services and funding pensions, instead of leaving these decisions in local hands.

Conservatives should not assume that powerful government unions will run roughshod over a state-appointed receiver just as they have over local officials and the Legislature in Sacramento.

Central Falls receiver was put in place by a state government controlled by a Democratic legislature and liberal governor, Lincoln Chaffee. Rhode Island boasts a larger share of unionized government workers than California (62 percent versus 55 percent). Though he was appointed by a Republican governor, Kevyn Orr, the emergency manager of Detroit, was a Democrat.

By definition, an unelected state appointee enjoys a certain distance from local political pressures and would stand a stronger chance of designing a truly effective bankruptcy plan than the same local officials who were responsible for the citys going broke in the first place.

Municipal bankruptcy is always the result of a lack of leadership. But only strong leadership can make the bankruptcy process work, and its more likely to come from the state than the local level.

Daniel DiSalvo is a senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute and an associate professor of political science at the City College of New York-CUNY and Stephen Eide is a senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute. They are authors of the report When Cities Are at the Financial Brink: The Case for Intervention Bankruptcy.
A former Newport Beach deputy police chiefs parting pension deal may be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars over the course of his lifetime  and serves as just a small local example of how the states pension system continually puts the needs of public employees over California taxpayers.

Local government watchdogs brought to my attention the case of David McGill, who has been deputy police chief for the city for close to  but not quite  five years. He came to Newport Beach in 2012 after retiring from the Los Angeles Police Department.

According to Transparent California, McGill earned $204,000 in regular pay and a total compensation package of $341,000 at the Newport Beach job, while collecting a pension of nearly $75,000 from Los Angeles, which offers a less generous pension formula than Newport Beach.

Thats typical by modern California public-safety pension standards. But it gets more interesting. McGill was passed over for the Newport Beach police chief job last year and then accepted the position of police chief in the small, trendy town of Sedona, Arizona. He was sworn in Jan. 11, yet continues to receive a paycheck from Newport Beach.

City Manager Dave Kiff allowed him to use his vacation time to carry him through the first week of February, which gives him the magical five years with the city. Thats the time needed to be vested in the California Public Employees Retirement System and to receive a lifetime pension. Given McGills base salary average of $193,000 over his last three years and Newports pension formula, this would add up to a pension of around $29,000 a year.

Newport Beach is a charter city, and the city manager gets to make this call. On Wednesday, Kiff told me it was only fair, given McGill had enough vacation time  and did some part-time work for the department  to carry him past the deadline. Kiff said its rare for an employee to have taken a new job, but have enough vacation time to take him to vesting. In Newport Beach, especially in Daves position, he has significantly paid toward his pension costs, Kiff added.

In a follow-up conversation Thursday, Kiff added new information: Because of reciprocity between the two police agencies, it turns out McGill was eligible for full vesting even without using his vacation time, so the vacation carry-over makes little difference to local taxpayers. But its clear the city would have allowed him to do this, reciprocity or not.

Just to be clear, there are no allegations of wrongdoing. The situation simply is illustrative of our pension system.

Police unions sometimes claim that officers die a few years after retirement, but research from CalPERS debunks that myth. If a current male officer is 55, then CalPERS numbers suggest he is likely to live to be 81.4 years old. Women officers live longer. McGill is 53, so if he lives to 81, that means this one minor pension situation will cost the system a bundle.

In many California cities, the taxpayer picks up not only the employers cost for the officer  but the employees cost. Newport Beach admirably requires a decent contribution from its employees, although it has followed the model of other cities by boosting salaries to cover the extra contribution costs.

If true this is unacceptable and precisely what our new City Council is working to fix, Newport Beach Mayor Kevin Muldoon said regarding the situation.

The City Council now has a conservative majority, which is more likely to focus on such spending matters. But the problem is rooted in the state Capitol, where unions have long ruled the roost. Public-safety workers can retire in most jurisdictions with the 3 percent at 50 formula that provides 90 percent of their final years pay at age 50 after 30 years, plus enhancements.

Because they retire so young, police often take jobs in new departments and start piling up pensions. But as pension funding levels fall, localities must pay higher contribution rates and cut services or raise taxes. Meanwhile, a new study from the California Policy Center in Tustin finds average compensation for a California public employee is twice that for an average private-sector employee.

Kiff, in fact, strongly agrees that legislators need to pass far more of the pension system, even though he said he was trying to assure the fairest outcome for an individual. I understand how the Newport Beach situation is fair to the employee. But isnt it time to consider whats fair to taxpayers?

Steven Greenhut is Western region director for the R Street Institute. He was a Register editorial writer from 1998-2009. Write to him at sgreenhut@rstreet.org.
At a time of great uncertainty and controversy, it has become hard for policymakers  not to mention everyday Americans  to figure out just what to think about the future of NATO. People in and out of Washington are divided, not just on matters of opinion, but also on matters of considered judgment and fact. Moreover, even core principles are up for question in a deeply unfamiliar way.

Although such turbulence  in our minds and on the ground  deserves deep concern, it has also been a long time coming. For too long, thanks to policies in the United States and the European Union alike, Europes strategic position and defense agenda have been left to drift. Even when forced into action by events, Europe has mostly stayed passive, often laboring, and sometimes scrambling, under a cloud of fear. NATO must play a central role in moving away from todays untenable mess. But, to do so, it must be prepared for change.

In practice, that means at least three big shifts. The first concerns money, the second power and the third principle.

Lets begin with money. It is well known that, for years, many NATO allies have not measured up in terms of their contribution to the organizations budget. The gap between American and allied spending can be eye-popping. Some differential is to be expected, of course. With military spending in the United States higher than in all the other 27 NATO states combined, its not that great a surprise that the U.S. also foots nearly a quarter of the shared NATO budget. But thats no excuse for the fact that just four NATO countries, including tiny Estonia and beleaguered Greece, hit a military spending target of just 2 percent of gross domestic product.

These numbers make some sense, given the extraordinary pressure and distress placed on so many NATO members, from economics and finance to terrorism and immigration. On the other hand, they are blatant signs of deep-seated institutional failure, and should either be corrected or renegotiated.

That brings us to the second shift NATO must adopt  one around power. Renegotiating the inputs and outputs for European allies may be preferable to squeezing them too hard for what would still be a relatively meager sum. But it will require some brutal honesty. What exactly should continental Europe and the United States expect from an increasingly autocratic and adversarial Turkey, for instance? How much should allies be expected to shoulder burdens well removed from a North Atlantic theater of conflict?

Clearly, it makes little sense for NATO to persist solely as a trip wire against Russian aggression. At the same time, the experiment with globalizing NATO to fight global terror cannot quite be said to have been a success. Terror has flowed into Europe, and Europe is floundering despite dogged efforts to forestall more attacks. Top NATO Gen. Denis Mercier has admitted that the alliance has wound up too far removed from its original mission, but too distant from where it needs to be on current threats.

Therefore, while President Donald Trump may be courting controversy by warning of NATO obsolescence, without an unflinching reassessment of which allies are doing what and why, member states will either spin out of sync or seek solace in an empty kind of cartographic symbolism, where all of Europes countries are filled in with NATO blue, united in name only. Americas most important treaty relationship must not become a page in a coloring book. But to hold it together for good, it must apply its budgets toward its immediate security challenges  both with traditional arms and deployments and, increasingly, with a much more robust and competent cybersecurity arsenal.

But if a rebalance of internal power in NATO is essential to moving ahead, that process must be pegged to enduring shared principles that actually show up in the lived reality shared by citizens and residents in the organizations North American and European member states. The Trump administration already faces a barrage of fearful criticism over the extent to which it might be soft on Russia. But pro-Russian sentiment in Europes core NATO countries is just as great of a factor, if not greater, when it comes to the future of the alliance. If Europeans want warmer relations with Moscow, they will get them, regardless of U.S. pressure.

Fortunately, Russia has been perversely helpful in preventing a NATO train wreck around its own Russia policy. Putins machinations in Ukraine and elsewhere  enough to send longtime neutral states like Sweden into NATOs arms  have not become so menacing as to drive a deep wedge between U.S. hawks and European doves. Instead, the transatlantic alliance has largely agreed on the appropriateness of carefully ratcheted up deployments designed to reinforce the integrity and credibility of NATOs principled core commitments.

Looking ahead, the allies should shift their focus toward articulating and advancing two principles. First, however relations with Moscow might be warmed or renewed, the territorial integrity of NATO members and their citizens quiet enjoyment of national sovereignty shall not be infringed. Second, although the allies reserve the right to operate wherever necessary in the world, NATO is a defensive organization, oriented around ensuring peace for its members and, to that extent, fostering a more stable, serene world.

Although these principles are, in effect, mere restatements of NATOs founding objectives, in todays context, they lead to some clear conclusions that some observers and policymakers are hesitant to make.

NATO expansion, for instance, should not be pursued for its own sake, or even for the sake of putting adversaries into a more disadvantageous position. Wars waged by NATO members, to take another example, should not creep into becoming de facto NATO wars. Finally, military inflexibility along NATOs most vulnerable flanks should, and necessarily will, come with greater strategic flexibility in areas of interest, but not of paramount interest, to NATO and its member states.

In the momentous years ahead, this approach will work better than the prevailing alternatives to ensure that NATO remains relevant, purposeful, effective and popular.

James Poulos is a columnist for the Southern California News Group.
Local immigration attorneys say theyve been flooded with calls this week from people concerned and anxious after President Donald Trump announced his plans to crack down on immigration.

My phone is ringing off the hook with people who are worried about whats going to happen to them and their family members, said Maziar Mafi, a Santa Ana-based attorney who specializes in immigration and deportation. Its very chilling, because we dont know whats going to happen.

Acting on two major pledges that helped define his presidential campaign, Trump on Wednesday ordered the construction of a wall along the border with Mexico and announced plans to deport millions of unauthorized immigrants.

He also plans to reduce legal immigration, including restricting the arrival of Syrian refugees and suspending visas for seven Muslim-majority countries.

California is home to an estimated 3 million unauthorized immigrants, including 270,000 in Orange County, according to the Migration Policy Institute, a Washington, D.C.-based think tank focused on migration.

With many of the details vague, local immigrants  authorized and unauthorized  are bracing for the worst with little information to ease their fears, attorneys said.

Some of his overseas clients who recently had U.S. visas approved are worried they will not be able to enter the country, Mafi said.

Im telling them if you can get on a plane, get on a plane and get here now, he said.

Many of his Iranian clients are now concerned their family members in Iran will not be able to visit them because of the new visa restrictions, he said. Hes also advising clients not to leave the country, for any reason.

Irvine-based immigration attorney Jeff Khurgel said some of his clients are so-called Dreamers  people brought to the country as children who received special protection from deportation under the Obama administrations Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program.

Those immigrants gave personal information to the Department of Homeland Security and are now fearful it could be used against them by the Trump administration.

They took a huge leap of faith by coming out of the shadows and now theyre feeling scared and vulnerable, he said. Khurgel said he has at least temporarily stopped filing new DACA applications.

Attorney Richard Wilner, based in Orange, said hes had to reassure legal residents who have held green cards for decades that theyre not in danger of being deported.

Wilner said businesses are concerned about a possible reduction in H-1B work visas, which could impact their ability to attract high-skilled workers.

Annie Lai, a law professor and co-director of UC Irvines Immigrant Rights Clinic, which represents individuals facing deportation, said immigrants should reach out to local immigration resources to learn about their legal rights. Theres definitely a high level of concern in the community, but theres also a high level of energy, she said.

Her clinic, along with the American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California, local law schools and legal aid groups, have scheduled a Feb. 9 teach-in on immigrant rights, starting at 6 p.m., at the Latino Health Access Center, 450 W. Fourth St., Santa Ana.

Contact the writer: kpuente@ocregister.com
HAIL TO THE TWEET

President Donald Trumps use of Twitter was widely scrutinized during the campaign, but after taking office, he hasnt stopped.

TWITTER BASICS

According to the New York Times, on the day of the presidential election, Twitter was the largest source of breaking news on social media with 40 million tweets. With all of Twitters exposure, including use by past and current presidents, the company has struggled to make a profit and has been criticized as a conduit for misinformation and fake news. President Trump, at his inaugural ball, explained his use of Twitter as, a way of bypassing dishonest media. Official White House Twitter accounts were transferred on Jan. 20 from President Obama to Trump, but Trump opted to keep his @realDonaldTrump account in addition to the White House account.

TRUMP FOLLOWERS

REGULAR TWEETING

Trumps daily tweets have declined since he was inaugurated Jan. 20, but he is still a daily user.

TWITTER USERS

Twitter users growth in millions of monthly users.

TYPES OF TWEETING

According to a report by Pew Research Center, Twitter conversations tend to fall into six types:

1. Polarized Crowds, opposed groups talk amongst themselves

2. Tight Crowds, made up of people bound together by some common interest (professional, academic)

3. Brand Clusters, groups formed around products or celebrities.

4. Community Clusters, small groups forming around news events

5. Broadcast Networks, following a news source but not interacting

6. Support Networks, companies responding to customer inquiries and complaints.

TOP TWEETERS

Twitter accounts with the most worldwide followers in millions as of Jan. 24.

The top 10 consists mostly of pop stars, but Barack Obama is No. 3 according to twitaholic.com.

Sources: Southern California News Group media sources, The Associated Press, Pew Research Center, Twitter, Twitaholic, The New York Times, WhiteHouse.gov
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Orange County native Hailey Langland became the first woman to land a double cork in the X Games competition and won the gold medal in the womens snowboard big air in Aspen, Colo., on Thursday night.

Langland, 16, received a score of 49 out of a possible 50 from the judges on her final run to vault past Austrias Anna Gasser into first in the 25-minute jam session format.

I honestly had no idea what the time was. I still thought we had like 20 more minutes, Langland told the Aspen Times. Its a bit surreal. I cant honestly believe that this just happened. But Im super stoked.

Langland finished with a two-run score of 66, edging out Gasser, who had 64.

I could definitely tell the girls were gunning for that top spot, said Langland, who was born in Aliso Viejo and lived in San Clemente before moving to Temecula. The jam format was pretty new. I actually really liked it for some reason. Normally I like to relax before a run and just chill, but I liked how high speed this was.

It is the second X Games medal for Langland, who won bronze in slopestyle last year.

I cant even believe that all just happened, she said. It was awesome and Im really stoked I even got to put it down.
FULLERTON  An Anaheim man who live-streamed his efforts to construct an explosive during a police standoff was sentenced Friday to four years in prison.

Jeff Edward Reece, 34, pleaded guilty to felony counts of possession of an explosive and attempted arson of an inhabited property. A third felony, possession of a destructive device, was dismissed, court records show.

Anaheim officers, responding to a call from a concerned resident, tried to contact Reece about 7:30 p.m. Oct. 28 at his mobile home on Coronet Avenue.

Prosecutors allege that Reece threatened the officers and turned on all of the stove burners in his home, filling the residence with gas.

As police evacuated the neighboring units, Reece put together a Molotov cocktail while streaming himself on Facebook Live.

Police negotiated with Reece for two hours before taking him into custody.

Contact the writer: semery@ocregister.com
SANTA ANA  Several hundred people gathered Friday to discuss Donald Trumps executive orders on immigration, with many saying his moves to suspend immigration from Muslim countries and build a border wall are un-American, while others saying theyll make the country more secure.

This country has always been open to those who fear for their life, for refugees, and this is something that is totally contrary to what this country stands for, said Rep. Lou Correa, D-Santa Ana, who organized a gathering at Santa Ana College. I would ask the president to stop and think before he really goes ahead,

Correa, in English and Spanish, also denounced Trumps move to penalize sanctuary cities.

He also brought immigration officials and attorneys to inform attendees of their rights.

The meeting was followed by a short march outside the college, with a dozen people chanting, No Trump, no KKK, no fascist USA, and No ban, no wall, immigration rights for all.

Salam Al-Marayati, president of the Muslim Public Affairs Council in Los Angeles, echoed Correas sentiments, calling it hypocritical for the president to deny refugees entry into the country when the United States was responsible for creating the refugee crisis with the Iraq War.

Its like telling the refugees to go join ISIS or live under a tyrant, said Al-Marayti, who did not attend the town hall. Its not a policy that shows any interest in promoting democracy and human rights.

Others who did not attend Correas event supported Trumps order to suspend Muslim immigration.

Mike Long, executive director of Voice of Refugees in Anaheim, described the executive order as an intelligent move.

It will strengthen the weaknesses in the visa process and most of the terrorists who have inflicted harm have come in to the country through that process, he said.

Long said his agency serves Syrian refugees who have family members stuck in Jordanian camps. But, he says those refugees should be able to enter the United States once they have been processed.

This doesnt strike me as a Muslim ban, Long said. It is directed at those countries that have fostered terrorism.

The U.S. government should put its people first and this executive order is a strong statement of the nations priorities, said Robin Hvidston, executive director of Claremont-based We the People Rising.

Our government needs to put our homeless people, our veterans and the unemployed who are suffering first, she said. I support the move to limit immigration and not bring in refugees because they would be competing with our own suffering population for assistance.

Contact the writer: 714-796-7762 or jkwong@ocregister.com or on Twitter: @JessicaGKwong
MOGADISHU, Somalia  The al-Shabab extremist group attacked a Kenyan military base inside Somalia with a car bomb and machine guns early Friday, and both the insurgents and Kenyas military claimed dozens of deaths on the opposite side.

Nine soldiers  two officers and seven servicemen  were killed and more than 70 al-Shabab extremists died in the base attack, Col. Paul Njuguna, the Kenyan military spokesman, said in a statement.

Two Kenyan police officers also were killed and four seriously wounded when their vehicle struck an improvised explosive device while they were crossing into Somalia to respond to the attack, a Kenyan official said.

The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to share the information.

Al-Shabab spokesman Sheikh Abdiaziz Abu-Musab said the groups fighters killed at least 51 Kenyan soldiers during the early morning attack in Kulbiyow town in Lower Jubba region. But Kenyan military spokesman Njuguna denied it, saying scores of the extremist fighters were killed instead when soldiers repelled the assault.

A Somali military officer, Col. Ahmed Ali, said al-Shabab used a massive suicide car bomb to penetrate the camp, part of the African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia, allowing dozens of extremists with machine guns to overrun the base, torching tents and arms depots.

Ali also disputed al-Shababs claim of killing dozens of soldiers, saying the Kenyans fought back before retreating to a nearby area. He declined to give further details.

Al-Qaidas East African affiliate is fighting to impose a strict version of Islam in this Horn of Africa nation. It has lashed out with deadly attacks against countries like neighboring Kenya that contribute to the African Union mission.

In February 2016, Kenya tried to downplay a similar al-Shabab attack that Somalias president said killed at least 180 Kenyan soldiers. Kenyas military spokesman denied the figure, but refused to give an official death toll. That attack was considered the bloodiest by al-Shabab militants to date and Kenyas heaviest military defeat.

Thousands of the African Union troops are in Somalia to bolster the countrys weak government, while al-Shabab continues to launch deadly guerrilla attacks like this weeks assault on a hotel in the capital, Mogadishu, that killed at least 26.

Earlier this month, the AUs Peace and Security Council decided to ask the U.N. Security Council to authorize a six-month surge of 4,500 troops to expand offensive operations. The Security Council was expected to discuss Somalia on Friday.

Somalias security forces are supposed to be taking on more responsibility as the AU force prepares to withdraw by the end of 2020. But concerns remain high about the countrys security, and the ongoing al-Shabab attacks in the capital and elsewhere have contributed to several delays in Somalias upcoming presidential elections, a key step in the countrys recovery.

The vote once set for last year is now expected to be held Feb. 8 as the impoverished country tries to recover from decades of chaos that began in 1991, when warlords overthrew a longtime dictator.
BUENA PARK  Kicks rat-a-tat-tat the back of your neck.

Theres the smell of burning rubber. Your grip on the armrest tightens as your seat rocks in every direction.

Youve hopped onto a 120-minute amusement park ride.

Orange Countys most unique theater has debuted at The Source, Buena Parks emerging 500,000-square-foot entertainment complex on Beach Boulevard. It is the fifth 4DX theater opened in the United States by CJ CGV, the largest multiplex cinema chain in South Korea.

Inside, theater seats rumble and sway with the action of the movie. Pressure points in the cushion push into your body when an actor lands a punch or a kick.

When a car hits a ramp during a chase scene in xXx: Return of Xander Cage, moviegoers feel weightless as the vehicle flies through the air in slow motion.

Machines beneath the screen spread fog. Overhead fans blow wind and large drums attached to the ceiling add rain or mist. Scents of gun powder, flowers, the Pacific breeze are pumped into the theater.

A ticket to the show costs $21.50 at peak times.

We want our customers to leave the theater thinking: This is the new cinema, said Jason Kim, CJ CGV America West Regional director. After a soft opening, the CJ CGV theaters held a grand opening Friday. This is the new way the theater has to go. A new thrill. A new experience.

Movie studios maintain a dialogue with CJ CGVs sister company, CJ 4DPLEX America, during production, Catherine Yi, creative director, said. Once a film is completed, CJ 4DXPLEXs Hollywood office creates codes and cues for motion prompts and special effects. Calibration takes up to two weeks, Kim said.

Filmmakers and producers give feedback.

You dont want to overstimulate, Yi cautioned. Less is more. You only want to add to the story. You dont want to distract from it. Were in the business of giving people their moneys worth, so we want to punch up parts that need action, but at the same time, we dont want the movie to be about 4DX. We want it to be about the story.

Though action movies are the likeliest to be brought to life, Yi said 4DX can submerge moviegoers in any genre.

Youd be surprised at the alternative content thats not action that we work on, she said. Like animation; we get to be so imaginative. What does it feel like to be on a hovercraft? For Frozen we can have seats synched to the soundtrack.

CJ CGV has 351 4DX theaters across 44 countries. Buena Park joins New York, Los Angeles and Chicago as the only American cities to boast its immersive cinematic trend. CJ 4DPLEX and Regal Cinemas, the countrys largest cinema exhibitor, plan to debut 17 new 4DX theaters by the end of 2018. The partnership has opened one at LA Live.

Patrick Corcoran, vice president and chief communications officer of the National Association of Theatre Owners, said early returns for 4DX suggest moviegoers enjoy the thrill. But, he added, I dont see it becoming the way of seeing a movie. Its more of an add-on, but there will be people who want that.

The idea behind the movie theater is that its a place for people to go to be entertained  and in a lot of different ways, Corcoran said. As long as theres new technology that adds to the possibility of enjoyment, and that people are willing to pay for, youre going to see theaters trying it.

Audiences in Orange County have no shortage of theater options from discount to art house, IMAX to luxury; 3D screenings are standard offerings. Moviegoers dont have to drive far to get a beer with their popcorn or waiter service.

At Buena Parks The Source, CJ CGV is padding its potential for success by also tapping into the regions Asian market and luxury theater demands.

CJ CGVs three-screen Koreatown cinema opened in 2010. The volume of Asian immigrants living in Orange County prompted the franchises expansion south, Kim said.

To debut a theater like this in Orange County, its a booming area, he added. Theres Koreatown, and L.A. has been the happening place, but now, everythings moving here.

At any time, CJ CGV will play several Asian movies, with English subtitles. The theater also will show a handful of American films subtitled in Chinese, Korean, Japanese and Vietnamese. The lobby sells traditional movie and Korean snacks. A bar serves beer, wine and cocktails that use a Korean wine, Soju, in place of vodka.

The eight-theater multiplex also has a luxury theater, a theater that expands audiences perspective with a multi-projection, 270-degree screen and its largest auditorium has a screen 642 feet wide, nearly 100 feet wider than any other.

As for 4DX, Yi said: People who like it, really like it. Its one of those things that has a cult following. If youre really a fan, youre going to see every movie in 4DX.

Contact the writer: 714-796-7724 or bwhitehead@scng.com
WASHINGTON  President Donald Trump signed an executive action on Friday to establish new vetting procedures for some people seeking to enter the U.S., saying the measure would prevent terrorists from being admitted into the country.

Text of the document was not immediately available. Trump signed it at the Pentagon after a ceremonial swearing-in of his defense secretary, James Mattis.

I am establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America, he said. We want to make sure we are not admitting to our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas.

The Trump administration has been considering further restrictions on refugees admitted to the U.S., but it was not clear if any of those measures were included in the document the president signed on Friday. Trump said in an interview with the Christian Broadcasting Network on Friday that he regards Christians as a priority for the U.S. refugee program.

Theyve been horribly treated, Trump told the network. Do you know if you were a Christian in Syria it was impossible, at least very tough to get into the United States? If you were a Muslim you could come in, but if you were a Christian, it was almost impossible.

Christian Refugees

State Department data show that 34 Syrian Christian refugees were admitted into the U.S. in the fiscal year that ended Sept. 30 and 39 so far in the current fiscal year. By comparison, 12,486 Muslim Syrians were admitted in fiscal 2016 and 4,772 so far this year.

Syria is a majority Muslim nation, and U.S. officials say that Christians fleeing the countrys civil war have largely wound up at refugee processing centers in areas the U.S. government considers unsafe to work.

There are Christians being processed, and processed at the same percentage at that which they apply for the program, Lavinia Limon, president and chief executive officer of the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants, an advocacy group, said in a phone interview. So theyre moving through the process exactly in the same percentage.

Trump also signed a measure at the Pentagon that he said would begin a great rebuilding of the armed services of the United States, including new planes, new ships, new resources and new tools for our men and women in uniform.

Text of that document was also not immediately available.

During his campaign, Trump warned that the U.S. risked allowing terrorists to slip into the country as part of the refugee program, pointing to terrorist attacks such as the killing of a French priest and a bombing at a German music festival, as evidence of the danger posed by refugees.

Trump originally proposed a temporary ban on all Muslim immigration to the U.S. After drawing criticism, he subsequently proposed blocking immigration from countries with a proven history of terrorism. Other than Syria, he had not specified what countries would meet that definition during his campaign.

U.S. Vetting

Weve taken in tens of thousands of people; we know nothing about them, Trump said Thursday in an interview on Fox News. They can say they vet them, they didnt vet them. They have no papers. How can you vet somebody when you dont know anything about them and you have no papers? How do you vet them? You cant.

Under the Obama administration, the U.S. focused its refugee admissions on individuals with existing links to America, as well as women and children facing persecution or in desperate need of medical care. The screening process averages 12 to 18 months and includes biometric data and reviews by multiple law enforcement and intelligence agencies.

If you actually get resettled in the United States, its literally like winning the lottery, Limon said.

Trumps call to limit refugee admissions has been denounced by human-rights groups, who say vulnerable people seeking to flee religious or political persecution would be denied safe haven. Although Trump has pulled back from statements early in his presidential campaign that he would ban immigration by Muslims, his critics say his policies are intended to embrace anti-Muslim sentiment and would erode Americas standing around the world.

We bomb your country, creating a humanitarian nightmare, then lock you inside, Senator Chris Murphy, a Connecticut Democrat, said in a statement on Wednesday. Thats a horror movie, not a foreign policy.

With assistance from Nick Wadhams and Justin Sink To contact the reporters on this story: Shannon Pettypiece in New York at spettypiece@bloomberg.net, Michelle Jamrisko in Washington at mjamrisko@bloomberg.net. To contact the editors responsible for this story: Alex Wayne at awayne3@bloomberg.net, Mike Dorning

2017 Bloomberg L.P.
COSTA MESA  A village frozen in time  before the war, before communism, before a mass exodus from Vietnam.

A village re-created amid the modern suburbia of Costa Mesa  as a celebration of the past, of home and of tradition.

The annual Tet Festival, which kicked off Friday evening at the OC Fair & Event Center, is a three-day celebration of the Lunar New Year, which begins Saturday and is a time for those in the Little Saigon community to remember the past and look forward with hope at the year to come. Some 50,000 people are expected to attend the festival during its three-day run.

The festival, organized by the Union of Vietnamese Student Associations, blends history with the contemporary: There are Asian-fusion food trucks and performers singing modern pop music and a beauty pageant. But there is also the Cultural Village, expanded from past years, that aims to transport visitors to the Vietnamese countryside.

You walk in the gate and you see Vietnam, said Peter Le, 43, a Boston resident who brought his wife and 4-year-old twins to Orange County to reconnect with family and visit the festival. The whole country is right here.

As the sun set Friday, Les children, Michael and Michelle, both dressed in the traditional ao dai gowns  Michael in yellow, Michelle in red  scampered around the village. They ducked into a miniature country home. Ran to a well. And skipped around bushels of hay and sticks of bamboo.

You dont see this anywhere else, Le said, looking around at canoes used for fishing, vats of rice to be carried on shoulders and a white rickshaw. Le, who was born in Vietnam and came to the United States in his 20s, paused.

Then, he added: Not even in Vietnam anymore.

As Little Saigon welcomes the Year of Rooster over the next two days, the festivals schedule will be diverse, with a dance competition, a youth night and a pho-eating contest.

But the Cultural Village  with a traditional spring wedding and an ancestral procession among the planned activities  will likely be the main draw, for both young and old.

We dont usually hear Vietnamese music at parties, said Mary Nguyen, 23, shortly after taking a photo with two friends in front of paper lanterns. Its nice to feel Vietnamese and not just American.

Emphasizing their homelands history and culture, has taken on greater importance among the Vietnamese diaspora in Orange County as the years since the fall of Saigon, in April 1975, pile up.

On the pagoda-style gate leading to the Cultural Village, a short poem  written in Vietnamese  calls on those who enter the village to remember Southeast Asian nation:

The country is still asking, the poem translates to.

The fatherland is still waiting.

We left the country and were hoping to one day go back, said Luong Tran, a retired hobbyist poet. We dont want the younger generation to forget.

Contact the writer: 714-796-6979 or chaire@scng.com
Strong Santa Ana winds that swept through Orange County on Friday are expected to weaken Saturday, according to the National Weather Service.

A high wind warning that was issued Friday has been downgraded to a wind advisory for inland Orange County through Saturday afternoon, Jimmy Taeger, a meteorologist for the Weather Service said.

A wind advisory means that winds of 35 mph are expected, according to the Weather Service. Driving may be difficult, particularly for tractor-trailers.

On Saturday, east to northeast winds reaching 15 to 30 mph with gusts of 50 mph are possible inland and 60 mph winds may occur in the Santa Ana mountains and foothills.

Strong winds will then gradually weaken through the weekend, Taeger said.

As of 2 p.m. Friday, winds of 88 mph were measured at Pleasants Peak, and 87 mph at Fremont Canyon in the Santa Ana Mountains. Winds at Silverado Canyon reached 60 mph. Inland, winds topped out at 47 mph in Orange and 43 mph at John Wayne Airport.

Gusty conditions were blamed for a number of problems on freeways throughout Southern California.

Strong winds were blamed when a big rig rolled on the westbound 60 Freeway in Jurupa Valley just before 4:30 a.m. Friday and could be the culprit in another toppled tractor-trailer incident later in the morning on the southbound 15 Freeway connector to the eastbound 10 Freeway near Ontario.

Wind-related in incidents in Orange County on Friday included:

 At around 9 a.m. on the 405 Freeway near Jeffrey Street in Irvine a tree fell on car, but the driver was unhurt, said Orange County Fire Authority Capt. Larry Kurtz.

 A utility pole was snapped by high winds around 9:20 a.m in the 2200 block of North Tustin Avenue, but the wires were not damaged, Orange police Lt. Mike Monjaraz said.

Contact the writer: 714-796-7767 sschwebke@scng.com Twitter: @thechalkoutline
ST. ANSGAR  With the pending sale of St. Ansgars old elementary school building, a summer stock theater will be coming to the community.

The Cedar Summerstock Theater will be a chance for college students to experience what working for a professional theater company is all about.

It's spearheaded by Nancy Nickerson Lee, a St. Ansgar High School graduate.

Modified after programs Lees children were involved in on the East Coast, the theater is designed to be an intensive program with a rigorous rehearsal and performance schedule.

Once the first show opens we will start rehearsing the second show during the day while continuing to perform the first show at night, said Lee.

Each show will feature a two-week run, with the cast, crew and artistic planners living and working out of the old elementary school building.

Lee has been working on organizing notifications about auditions so people can begin to apply.

While final rehearsals and performances will be held at the Cedar River Complex in Osage, all of the preparation for the shows, including set designs and scene creation, will be done in the old elementary school building.

With a 10-day rehearsal period planned for each show, the idea is to give college performing arts students an opportunity to see what is in store for them in a professional setting.

After seeing what summer stock in upstate New York, Massachusetts and Maine was like, I felt we needed to do this in the Midwest, said Lee. "We need to give our students here the same opportunity.

If we were to start a program like this in the city, it would just be one more theater company. Small towns are the best places for something like this. Eventually, we would like to get high school kids involved as well.

With strong ties already in place in Mitchell County, Lee said she saw St. Ansgar as the perfect place to set up a creative space that would allow young performing artists to work on their craft.

The idea is to create affordable spaces where people can live and work out of, said Lee. There is a need for creative endeavors in the community. I want summer stock to be the seed that starts things.

With the closeness of Osage and St. Ansgar and the presence of the Cedar River Complex, Lee said making Mitchell Country a center of creative work would give both towns an investment in the arts and forge a community support system for the program.

I chose Mitchell County because I already have so many connections here, said Lee. I enjoy working with people I know as well as building new relationships. Ive already had a man from Texas call and ask how he could get involved.

I think we could bring people from all over the country in, especially once the college students return to their colleges and hometowns and share what theyve learned.
HANLONTOWN  Nearly all of the diesel fuel from a 138,000-gallon spill near Hanlontown had been vacuumed up by Friday, clearing the way for workers to begin digging up contaminated dirt, officials said.

The diesel flowed from a Wednesday morning break in a 12-inch pipe owned by Magellan Midstates Partners, a third of a mile north of 390th Street and Wheelerwood Road.

The break created a pool of diesel covering 1 to 1 acres on an acreage and farm field.

Jeff Vansteenburg, a field office supervisor for the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, said Magellan planned to vacuum up the pooled diesel and contaminated snow on the surface before it digs up diesel-soaked dirt underneath.

"That's mostly been completed," Vansteenburg said Friday afternoon. "They're hitting a few spots where there may be some puddles."

The Iowa DNR and Environmental Protection Agency are on site monitoring the cleanup. Tulsa, Oklahoma-based Magellan has about 70 people on site.

This weekend, crews will begin scraping up diesel-soaked soil and staging it for transport when waste sites open on Monday, Vansteenburg said.

Its unclear how much dirt will need to be removed.

Vansteenburg saw an area where diesel appeared to have soaked about two feet down, but didnt know if that was uniform across the contaminated area.

He said Magellan is testing soil samples to determine how far down the fuel seeped. Removing the dirt will likely continue into at least next week.

The cause of the break was still under investigation on Friday.

A stretch of Wheelerwood is blocked to accommodate the trucks and heavy equipment needed for the cleanup efforts, which are running around the clock.

Worth County resident Mary Jo Prazak, who lives about a mile away, can see the glow of the work site at night.

Looks brighter than Hanlontown, she said. They have great big spotlights.

Prazak says she isnt worried about the spill, which hasnt affected her residence.

They say theyre getting it all, she said, of the cleanup. Well see.

As of Friday, officials had found no evidence of diesel contaminating nearby waterways.

A small creek, Willow Creek, is just east of the spill site and the 939-acre Hanlontown Waterfowl Production Area is less than half mile away on the south side of 390th Street.

"Theyre making absolutely sure that none of the product leaves the site," said the DNR's Vansteenburg. "And, weve had no evidence that any of the diesel fuel has made it to any surface water areas."

Water from the well at the acreage next to the leak will continue to be monitored for signs of contamination.

The 138,600 gallons  3,300 barrels  that flowed from the break is the largest diesel spill reported to the U.S. Department of Transportation since January 2010, according to the department's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration records.

Officials from Magellan notified the Worth County Sheriffs Office early Wednesday there was a leak somewhere in a stretch of pipeline covering a broad area, including possibly in Worth County, said Worth County Sheriff Dan Fank.

A Worth County sheriffs deputy helped look for the leak about 8 a.m.

The break was in a 127-mile stretch of line from Rosemount, Minnesota, to the Mason City area, where Magellan has a terminal in Clear Lake.

The line was built in the 1950s.

The Worth County Sheriff's Office, like other county officials in the area, has a map of the maze of pipelines that run underneath the surface of North Iowa.

Pipeline companies hold trainings with local law enforcement agencies and, in the case of Worth County, has told them what to look for in case of a leak.

Youre looking if theres steam coming up  anything thats out of the norm, Fank said. You might see spray coming out in the area (or) you might see discoloration.

The Worth County Sheriffs Office has been onsite around the clock since the leak was found.

Deputies, as well as members of the departments reserve program, are staffing an incident command center and maintaining road blocks to allow trucks and heavy equipment to get to the leak site.
The second installment of the Omaha Symphonys Shakespeare Festival was an effective and bright complement to the more esoteric first weekend.

The concert, on Friday night at the Holland Center, was well attended and warmly received.

The evenings conductors, symphony Music Director Thomas Wilkins and Italian Valentina Peleggi, displayed equally brilliant yet contrasting prowess.

Peleggi conducted Hector Berliozs Overture to Beatrice et Benedict, the opening piece, and her enthusiasm was stunning. Her language with the ensemble portrayed the journey of the title characters with almost as much distinction as the interplay between the brass and strings.

Wilkins conducted the Love Scene from Berliozs Romeo et Juliette. Wilkins and the entire orchestra demonstrated how dozens of musicians  with great skill and imagination  can illustrate clearly to an audience a tale of two young lovers as they gaze, touch, kiss and part ways. The youthful tension of the composers overlapping and interrupting themes was not lost on this sensitive ensemble.

The last half of the program, Felix Mendelssohns A Midsummer Nights Dream, was tremendous.

Wilkins was again firmly in command of the orchestra with the addition of players from Nebraska Shakespeare, Abendmusik under the direction of Tom Trenney and sopranos Karina Brazas and Shelby VanNordstrand.

The piece contains many of Mendelssohns most beloved themes, particularly The Wedding March.

Brazas with her sumptuous, soaring timbre and VanNordstrand with her agile and exciting skill left me wanting to hear more. Abendmusik was equally splendid.

And Nebraska Shakespeare was triumphant. The set  two scaffold pieces on either side of a whimsical tree  came to life immediately as the opening chords of the Mendelssohn sounded and the lights hit.

Sarah Carlson-Brown of Nebraska Shakespeare deserves praise for trimming the massive play to an hour without losing accessibility. Vince Carlson-Brown stood out among a captivating cast playing the shows principle characters. Costumes by Lindsay Pape were as lively as they were lovely, showing off courtly, comic and period flavors.

The challenges of staging the theatrical component of the evening required some compromises, however. The sung text would have had more impact if the chorus and soloists had been downstage.

Nevertheless, the evening showcased the finest creativity Omaha has to offer. Bravo to the Omaha Symphony, Nebraska Shakespeare, Abendmusik and the featured soloists.
For kids there are actors wearing animal ears, a score filled with silly songs and permission to squeal and oink like a pig in your loudest outside voice.

For parents and grandparents there are groovy 1960s costumes, some funny wordplay and numerous nods to the Beatles.

The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs will make you happy, no matter who you are. The Robert Kauzlaric play, based on a popular childrens book by Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith, premiered Friday at the Rose Theater.

It has a plot that will appeal to young and old. The Big Bad Wolf (Dan Chevalier) is on trial for allegedly eating two pigs after he destroyed their homes. Judge Juris Prudence (Kimberlee Stone) presides over a corrupt courtroom  she clearly favors prosecutor Julia (Lauren Krupski). The wolf, representing himself, says hes misunderstood and begs for his story to be told. Reporter Lillian Magill (Ashley Laverty) hopes she can get the real scoop and facilitate justice.

Did he huff, did he puff, did he really blow those houses down? Magill asks the audience at the beginning of the show, urging kids to pay attention to the testimony. Thats important, because in this show, the crowd is the jury. Theatergoers get to determine the wolfs guilt or innocence and, therefore, the plays final scene.

Some of the proceedings didnt seem to mean much to the youngest patrons, mostly from Liberty Elementary School, who fidgeted throughout a Thursday afternoon preview performance. Older kids got more of the slightly subversive humor.

In the end, however, any lack of understanding didnt make a difference. When it came time to vote, the place went wild  kids were standing, pointing and screaming to make their opinions known.

The cast  including Robby Stone in a variety of parts  was uniformly excellent. The actors had a blast with the material. The show includes some cute if not exactly hummable or memorable songs and some nifty dance steps.

Chevalier makes the wolf sympathetic and likable  not an easy task, considering how sinister he was in the original fairy tale. And Krupski has some of the shows best moments as she somewhat maniacally makes Julias case.

Director Kevin Ehrhart and music director Jerry Brabec have lots of fun capitalizing on the scripts somewhat subtle Beatles references. (Note to adults, especially those who are familiar with the Fab Fours music catalog: Theres a link between the character names, including pigs Desmond, Jojo and Maxwell, with the music thats played when they come on stage. And you will name that tune at the finale in one note.)

Costumes by Sherri Geerdes were cool: a mod, pink 60s shift dress for Magill; a big fuzzy vest trimmed in fake fur and wide bell-bottoms for the wolf. And Brigitte Drehers colorful set successfully mixed a barnyard motif with a courtroom (adults will chuckle at the book used to swear in witnesses.)

As happens to me sometimes at the Rose, I found the background music too loud and distracting at times when I was trying to understand dialogue.

But aside from that, the Rose did justice to this wacky play. I was pleased that our jury exonerated the wolf.

The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs

What: stage play

When: today through Feb. 12

Showtimes: 7 p.m. Fridays, 2 and 5 p.m. Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays

Where: Rose Theater, 2001 Farnam St.

Tickets: $20; discount ticket vouchers available at Hy-Vee stores for $14
NU comes into the meet ranked in the top 10 on three events. The Huskers are fifth on bars with an average of 49.263 through two meets. NU is ninth on floor exercise and 10th on vault. Jennie Laengs average of 9.925 on bars is tied for second-highest in the country.
At first designer Doris Helfrichs participation in the Cathedral Flower Festival was just a job.

I was working at a flower shop and (the boss) told me it was a great event and we had to go do it, she said.

That was 29 years ago, and shes still involved with the exhibition at St. Cecilia Cathedral, the largest event produced each year by the Cathedral Arts Project.

I may have missed a couple of years, but other than that Ive done it every year, she said. Im a retired florist, but I still freelance. I always come back and help with this.

Its a great weekend for florists, she said, a chance to connect with colleagues you dont see very often.

This year Helfrich is working on a display that has special significance to her. Nebraskas 150th birthday is the theme of the show that runs today and Sunday in nearly every space on the main floor of the large church near 40th and Cuming Streets. And Helfrich, a North Platte resident in the early 1980s, chose to design a display honoring that citys famous Canteen for traveling soldiers during World War II.

The birthday theme is a natural for the cathedral, which represents Catholics from across the state, said Brother William Woeger, founder and director of the Cathedral Arts Project. One of the churchs spaces is the Our Lady of Nebraska Chapel, with a statue entitled Virgin of the Corn above its altar. Another chapel honors the Nashes, a Nebraska pioneer family.

Selection of that theme earned the show a special place as an official event in the yearlong sesquicentennial celebration, Woeger said. First lady Susanne Shore, wife of Gov. Pete Ricketts, was scheduled to attend the shows patron party Friday night.

Theres a lot of energy and enthusiasm for this theme, Woeger said.

Last year the flower show theme  A Night at the Movies  got scrutiny when a St. Cecilia custodian vandalized some of the exhibits because he believed secular items such as a mannequin dressed as Mary Poppins were inappropriate for church. The Rev. Michael Gutgsell, Cathedral pastor and an expert in church law, said the show did not convey sacrilege or disrespect and that cathedrals have long been centers for cultural development and presentation.

Archdiocese of Omaha Chancellor Tim McNeil also said he could find nothing in the Catholic catechism that would discourage or forbid last years displays. The custodian was fired and fined $100 for misdemeanor criminal mischief.

McNeil said last year that the archdiocese was reviewing the festival  not because of the vandalism but because it was evolving, with the use of props such as mannequins and figurines.

This year, McNeil said Friday, we were more intimately involved in the whole planning process.

Its been an opportunity to participate in the 150th celebration of the state and show how the archdiocese fits in that history, he said.

Woeger said Cathedral Arts Project leaders choose the theme about a year in advance and inform the archdiocese. The choice, he said, is driven by a number of things  whats going on in the world. Lots of times it has to do with the arts.

Nebraskas sesquicentennial gave flower show planners the opportunity to create about 30 displays commemorating both secular and religious events. One honors all the citys bishops, including the famous Episcopal leader Bishop Robert Clarkson. Another tells the story of the regions immigrant faith communities: Jews, Protestants, Catholics.

Secular exhibits include one on the history of north Omaha, with the hat the late Luigi Waites wore when he played the vibraphone.

He was a member of our board, Woeger said. We have great affection for him.

Theres an exhibit about the Bugeaters, precursors to the Nebraska Cornhuskers, and a large display in the Nash Chapel that features a topiary in the shape of the Sower, the figure on top of the State Capitol.

Participating florists hope the displays resonate with viewers not only because of their beauty, but also because of the stories they tell and the emotions they evoke.

Helfrich hung copies of several historical photographs above her exhibit on the North Platte Canteen. Decades after World War II, residents of the western Nebraska city still are proud of the effort to serve milk, coffee and treats to thousands of soldiers crossing the country en route to the coasts to travel overseas. On Helfrichs display, a Styrofoam cake with real frosting depicts the treat each soldier got if it happened to be his birthday.

I remember the older ladies in town talking about it when I lived there, she said. Women would take turns with the food and bringing it to the soldiers.

Designer Sue Sandhoefner chose an all-American theme for her display on the Trans-Mississippi Exhibition and Gurdon Wattles, its founder and organizer. She draped bunting on the cathedrals stone walls and incorporated a parasol and top hat from the Wattles family into her exhibit. A huge mass of red, white and blue flowers is the focal point.

Were all proud to be Americans, said Sandhoefner, a first-time participant in the flower show who works at Voila but was freelancing her display. When people turn that corner I want them to say Wow! and be proud.

Cathedral Flower Festival

What: floral displays with a Nebraska sesquicentennial theme

When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. today; 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday

Where: St. Cecilia Cathedral, 701 N. 40th St.

Admission: free; donations accepted
A Southern California classroom was filled with high school freshmen when one of them realized that she needed to run to the restroom.

Patrick Henry High School in San Diego, however, had a policy at the time stipulating that students were not permitted to take bathroom breaks during class  and the teacher took a strict interpretation of it.

The teacher, Gonja Wolf, forbid the 14-year-old girl from leaving the classroom that Wednesday in February 2012. Instead, she let the girl pee in a bucket, then empty it in a classroom sink, according to a lawsuit.

The gossip reportedly spread through the school, then hit the news media, leading to the girl's anxiety, depression and an attempted suicide.

Now five years later, the San Diego Unified School District was ordered Wednesday to pay the student, who is now 19, more than $1.25 million in damages and $41,000 to cover medical bills, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune.

"Something like this never should have happened to a 14-year-old girl just entering high school," Brian Watkins, an attorney for the teenager, told the newspaper earlier this week. "She took the stand and told a really embarrassing story, she told the jury how this has affected her life and how she is still working through issues."

The ruling Wednesday concluded a years-long court battle in the Superior Court in San Diego.

The lawsuit, which was filed in 2012 against Wolf and the San Diego Unified School District, claims that on Feb. 22, 2012, the then-teenage girl was forced to urinate in a small supply room next to the classroom and then take her urine back into the classroom for disposal. The lawsuit argues it was done to "humiliate and disgrace" the girl for trying to use the restroom during class time.

It states:

"In the presence of several of [the student's] male classmates, Wolf told [the student] that she could not leave the classroom regardless of the urgency of the situation and that she would have to pee in a bucket if she really needed to go. These instructions were explained in the presence of said classmates and Wolf then took [the student] to a small room and instructed her to pee in a bucket, then empty the contents in an unused classroom sink, and finally return the bucket back to the room."

The lawsuit alleges that the girl "was given no choice except to comply with these instructions."

Although the girl tried to keep the news of the incident quiet, it spread to her "detriment and humiliation," according to the lawsuit.

Television crews showed up at the girl's home and at her school, according to news reports.

Watkins, her attorney, told jurors this month it was publicized from "Pakistan to the U.K," according to the San Diego Union-Tribune.

"It was devastating," Watkins said. "She's a 14-year-old girl at the time and she can't handle it."

She transferred schools  twice.

She started seeing a therapist.

But, her attorney told the jurors, she could not overcome it and, at one point, she ended up in the emergency room after an attempted suicide, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune.

The school district's attorney said that Wolf, a favorite art teacher, thought she had found a way around the school's no-bathroom-break policy.

In a "lapse of judgment, she thought that was a good idea," attorney Kathryn Martin told jurors this month, according to the Union-Tribune.

Martin added that although the school had imposed a policy banning bathroom breaks during class time, it expected teachers to use "common sense" when determining whether to enforce it, according to the newspaper.
OSAGE | Sometimes surprises surface when farmers are asked, What is the key to your successful operation?

For two Mitchell County farmers, the answer is faith, family, less furrowing and technology.

Al Witt and Bruce Johnson, who have partnered in their crop farming operations for the past 10 years, gave some interesting answers as to why their crop farming partnership has been so successful.

Whats really helped is our God-centered relationship. That has been really cool with our spiritual growth and spiritual relationship, Witt said.

That is a huge part of our operation, Johnson said. Sure helps things flow throughout the day and throughout the year.

The arrangement benefits everyone as they follow the practical advice of Ecclesiastes 4:9: Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work. Every Tuesday morning, both men take an hour to join fellow Christian businessmen for an early morning Bible study in Witts farm office.

The Witt and Johnson farmsteads, 10 miles west of Osage, are on opposite sides of Highway 9 and only 150 yards apart. The partnership developed when the two families decided to share farm equipment and labor.

The two have been sharing equipment since Witt moved back to his home farm.

Witt and his wife, Jill, have five children, ranging in age from 2 to 15. Witt is an environmental coordinator for Smithfield Foods. Johnson and his wife, Lisa, have three grown children. He is employed with Popp Excavating in Osage.

Both families are invested in church and community activities, plus travel time between fields in western Mitchell County and other land in Howard County.

Their recent purchase of a Gladiator Strip Tillage machine has cut down on time in cornfields. For the past five years, the partners have strip-tilled a portion of their land to see if the conservation farming method would work.

"We watched records and it proved to work, Witt said.

Last fall, the partners bought their strip tiller and ran it over all their acres.

The machine eliminates two passes through the corn fields. It creates 8-inch-wide furrows between harvested bean rows in the fall, and also applies fertilizer and other herbicide treatments. The following spring, the planter then deposits seeds in the 30-inch rows where the raised furrows have been made.

According to Witt and Johnson, this method of corn farming increases soil health by reducing wind and water erosion and increases earthworm populations, micro-organisms and organic matter while cutting machinery costs, fuel costs, soil compaction, water consumption and time.

The partnership also cuts corn inputs through creating a prescription map for each of its tracts of land, which have varying types of soils, drainage and fertilization needs.

We have the ability to design a fertility package for each partial of land, Witt said.

During the winter, Witt and Johnson develop a plan for each tract of land on a to determine fertilization and planting population. The information is inserted then inserted in the planter's computer, signaling when to raise or lower seed distribution and fertilizer rates.

Although the two men are machinery and labor partners, Johnson said they order seed separately, sometimes having different brands.

Drones have also been added to the partnerships corn production plan. Witts 13-year-old son, Riley, flies up the machine. Flying over a growing corn field, the two farmers can recognize many details not visible from the ground. Differing varieties of corn, areas missed when spraying chemicals, lack of fertilization, wet areas and wind damage are all visible from the air.

Extended family members join the workforce during planting and harvest.

Universities, researchers and agribusinesses point corn farmers to new technologies, ag products, conservation practices, new machinery and marketing as ways to improve their bottom line, but many farmers, like Witt and Johnson, still believe family and faith play a greater role.
DES MOINES (AP)  A divided Iowa Supreme Court on Friday upheld a legal doctrine going back 100 years that protects agriculture drainage districts against lawsuits.

The ruling presents an obstacle for the Des Moines Water Works, which is pursuing a lawsuit in federal court in Sioux City filed in March 2015.

The water utility for 500,000 Iowans alleges the three counties that oversee 10 agricultural drainage districts should be required to obtain federal water pollution discharge permits and pay the utility the more than $1.4 million it has spent to remove nitrates from the water supply.

The decades-old rules that govern drainage systems have largely been untouchable in the agriculture-heavy state. But attorneys for the utility say agriculture has changed dramatically in the last 100 years and that the health implications of farm chemicals in water are clearer, justifying a fresh look by the courts.

The majority concluded Friday that changes in environmental laws have not undermined the basis for the drainage districts immunity, because the districts have limited purposes for existing and limited governmental power.

While attitudes toward the environment may differ today from when the first drainage tiles were placed generations ago, tort claims based on alleged pollution are nothing new, the court said.

The court said Iowa law immunizes farmers who comply with fertilizer label instructions from liability for nitrate contamination, including money damage claims or cleanup costs. We defer to the legislature whether to reassess that policy choice.

The court concluded that the cost of removing nitrate from the water is about one cent per day for Des Moines customers and it is up to lawmakers to decide whether the costs should be shifted back to the farmers.

The case returns to federal court for further proceedings. If the judge dismisses the state claims based on the courts opinion, Water Works still has federal claims to pursue, which include seeking to have the districts obtain federal water pollution permits.

The ruling is a victory for farmers because it means the court holds that they cannot be held financially responsible for pollution they may send downstream.

Water Works CEO Bill Stowe said the case presented an opportunity for moving 100-year old Iowa law progressively forward on water quality issues never before considered, but that opportunity did not command a majority.

Copyright 2017 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
BERLIN (AP)  Prosecutors in Germany are expanding their probe into Volkswagens scandal over diesel cars that cheated on emissions tests, increasing the number of suspects and saying they have evidence former Volkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn may have known of the cheating earlier than he has claimed.

The announcement raises the legal stakes for the former head of Germanys largest automaker. The prosecutors office in Braunschweig, near Volkswagens Wolfsburg headquarters, said Winterkorn was now being investigated on suspicion of fraud, beyond an earlier focus on a possible securities-market violation.

The 69-year-old stepped down in September 2015, days after news emerged in the U.S. of Volkswagens use of software that turned off emissions controls. He said at the time that he was not aware of any wrongdoing on his part.

He said before a parliamentary committee last week that he first heard the term defeat device, the technical name for the illegal software, in September 2015.

Prosecutors in Braunschweig said however that on the basis of local prosecutorial investigation, Winterkorn could have known of the manipulative software earlier than publicly asserted by him.

The prosecutors statement Friday said that the number of suspects in the investigation of VW had increased from 21 to 37.

U.S. prosecutors have separately charged seven former Volkswagen employees. The company has agreed to pay $4.3 billion in fines to settle criminal charges and reached a $15 billion civil settlement in the U.S. with environmental authorities and car owners.

Copyright 2017 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Patricia Urbanovsky, the owner of Creative Creations, could learn Monday whether a federal judge will accept a plea agreement she brokered with federal prosecutors in September.

A sentencing and restitution hearing is set for Monday. Previous hearings have been rescheduled for various reasons.

As part of the deal, Urbanovsky pleaded guilty to 16 counts of federal wire fraud in connection with the sales of thousands of worthless air travel vouchers through Creative Creations. Now its up to a federal judge to accept or reject the deal.

Jan Sharp, chief criminal prosecutor of the U.S. Attorneys Office in Nebraska, has said the plea agreement caps Urbanovskys possible sentence at 72 months, or six years.

She is free, however, to argue that the sentencing range should be even lower than that, Sharp said in an email response to questions from The World-Herald.

Before the plea agreement, if convicted of all federal charges originally brought against her, Urbanovsky faced up to 365 years in prison. She had been charged with 16 counts of federal wire fraud and nine counts of money laundering. If the judge doesnt agree to the plea agreement, Urbanovsky could withdraw her guilty plea.

According to a motion filed last month by her attorney, Steve Lefler, Urbanovsky has requested that the court impose a sentence of three years.

She had no intention of stealing from anyone. She has no formal business background, did not know of trust accounts, and got overwhelmed, Lefler said in court documents.

She always thought she could and would honor all vouchers. It was not until mid- to late March 2015 that her travel manager informed her that the company was in dire straits. She had to shut the company down.

In a separate filing, Lefler said Urbanovsky had no prior serious criminal activity and noted the potentially negative impact a longer sentence might have on one of Urbanovskys children, who would be required to live with a family member in ill health.

Federal prosecutors responded to Leflers filings with a request that the court impose a guideline sentence of 72 months. They say Urbanovsky operated a sophisticated scheme involving fake identities, a fake email accounting of a nonexistent ... airline vice president, and engineered a cover-up when employees and customers questioned the legitimacy of her schemes.

The prosecution alleges that of the more than 36,000 vouchers sold, about 7,000 vouchers for flights or vacation packages were fulfilled. The others found their vouchers were worthless.

In the guilty plea Urbanovsky submitted to the court in September she wrote: Its hard for me to think I intentionally defrauded anyone.

Last February, Urbanovsky was charged in federal court with 16 counts of wire fraud and nine counts of money laundering. She pleaded not guilty to those charges in March. Authorities agreed, at that point, that she was not a flight risk or a danger to the community.

However, in September, a judge ordered Urbanovsky be fitted with an electronic monitoring device and placed on home detention after federal authorities alleged that she violated the federal agreement that allowed her to be out on bail while awaiting trial.

Among the Creative Creations customers affected: Square Inc., the San-Francisco payment-processing company that ran more than $7 million in payments for the Omaha event-planning company and says it is out more than $4 million.

Separate from the federal charges, the Douglas County Attorneys Office charged Urbanovsky with three felony counts of theft, accusing her of defrauding three Creative Creations employees out of $141,000. She was released on bail from the Douglas County Jail in July 2015. State charges are scheduled to be heard Friday in Douglas County District Court.
Omaha Public Library employees each month recommend books with different writing genres, themes or styles. With 2017 under way, the staff is offering some favorite self-improvement titles. Find these books and more at your local branch or omahalibrary.org:

 Brigette Dugas, publications coordinator, picked Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead by Brene Brown. During a time when my world was falling apart, Brown inspires with her insightful research, humorous anecdotes and bold pushes toward the courageousness of vulnerability. Tearing down emotional walls isnt the first thing one would think to do when your world is crumbling, but as Brown asserts, When we shut ourselves off from vulnerability, we distance ourselves from the experiences that bring purpose and meaning to our lives. It isnt until your life has purpose and meaning that you can really start creating the life that you want to live.

 Carol Erkens, adult services librarian at Benson Branch, selected The Best Meditations on the Planet: 100 Techniques to Beat Stress, Improve Health, and Create Happiness  In Just Minutes a Day by Dr. Martin Hart and Skye Alexander. A great idea book that offers useful meditations for specific goals.

 Theresa Jehlik, strategy and business intelligence manager, chose The New Better Off: Reinventing the American Dream by Courtney E. Martin. Martin, a culture critic, takes a hard look at success in an age where the lifetime job, one-income family and the ability to keep up with the Joneses is disappearing. Her research explores the overvaluing of money, high anxiety levels, diffused attention spans and a need for new rituals, among other topics. An extensive bibliography and discussion section can help interested readers find their own path to being better off in 21st century America.

 Breanne Seidle, library specialist at W. Dale Clark Main Library, recommended The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing by Marie Kondo. Kondos decluttering process includes purging belongings by category and keeping only certain items in order to keep a home clean and organized.

 Beth Steffensmeier, floating library specialist, picked 10% Happier: How I Tamed the Voice in My Head, Reduced Stress Without Losing My Edge and Found Self-Help That Actually Works  A True Story by Dan Harris. ABC news journalist Harris details his journey from meditation skeptic to one of its most ardent advocates. His cynical reporters point-of-view offers a refreshing perspective that cuts through what he calls the woo-woo, and offers a sound, researched argument on the benefits of practicing meditation.

 Jordan Stough, library specialist at Benson Branch, picked Adulting: How to Become a Grown-Up in 468 Easy(ish) Steps by Kelly Williams Brown. This funny handbook provides an insight to adult problems that seem to have common sense solutions, but that some people are just embarrassed to admit they dont understand.

 Paige Wagner, youth services librarian at Florence Branch, selected Radical Beauty: How to Transform Yourself from the Inside Out by Deepak Chopra and Kimberly Snyder. The book has suggestions for better sleep, exercise and healthy eating (including recipes).

 Amy Wenzl, youth services librarian at Charles B. Washington Branch, recommended Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Dont by Simon Sinek. In this book, Sinek explores the biology behind leadership and successful team-building, sharing the science behind trust and relationship-building in an accessible way. His book is filled with captivating true stories of successful teams that support his conclusion that humans were designed to function within a hierarchy, but in order for that hierarchy to succeed, everyone within it has to benefit and play his or her part.
Two teachers, one in Omaha and one in Gretna, were named Nebraska Agriculture in the Classroom 2017 Teachers of the Year were honored on Jan. 23 by the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation.

The awards were given to Jane Gundvaldson, a fourth-grade teacher at Thomas Elementary School in Gretna, and Matthew Koth, a third-grade teacher at Highland Elementary School in Omaha. The Teacher of the Year is presented to two teachers who incorporate agriculture into their classroom through innovative ideas.

Gundvaldson connects the foods her students eat on a regular basis to the farms where the food is grown or raised.

In addition, her fourth-grade students participate in the foundations Ag Pen Pal Program, where their classroom is matched with a farmer in Nebraska. Chuck Homolka, a Merrick County Farm Bureau member, sends videos and pictures of planting and harvesting so the students can understand what it takes to grow their food. For the past two years, the students have visited Homolkas farm in Central City, for an up-close look at the equipment necessary to grow popcorn, corn for ethanol production and raise cattle.

Koths classroom also is involved in the Ag Pen Pal Program and is matched with Arlan and Sarah Paxton in Stapleton.

He incorporates agriculture into the classroom by reading the story Stone Soup by Jon Muth to his third graders. The students discuss and write the ingredients on the board, then are tasked with finding where each ingredient in the soup is produced. From there, they talk about how the food gets from the farm to the grocery store and if those foods can be grown in Nebraska.

Both Gundvaldson and Koth will receive an all-expenses paid trip to the National Agriculture in the Classroom Conference in Kansas City, Missouri, on June 20-23. The conference brings educators together from all over the country to collaborate on how to incorporate agriculture into their curriculum and engage students. Teachers also will have the opportunity to tour local ag businesses and farms in the area.
More than 1,700 firefighters and emergency responders in Iowa were improperly issued credentials during a four-year span, according to findings that led to criminal charges against the former certification and accreditation coordinator of the State Fire Marshal Divisions Fire Services Training Bureau.

The Iowa Department of Public Safety released its report on the issue Tuesday, noting former coordinator John McPhee was charged with felonious misconduct in office, a Class D felony, and tampering with records, an aggravated misdemeanor. He turned himself in at the Story County Sheriffs Office that day.

In southwest Iowa, a number of officials connected to area departments said they hadnt been notified about potential firefighters that would need to retake certification tests.

We havent been notified about it, so Id wager its not going to have a huge impact on us, Council Bluffs Fire Chief Justin James said. We do a lot of in-house training. We do have some requirements for certifications, like for promotional exams.

Some of our guys may have to retake some tests, but, in the big picture of things, its good we found out about this and (will) correct the problem if need be.

James added: Im not concerned about my guys, as we train a minimum of 18 hours a month.

McPhee and the bureaus former chief, Randal Novak, were placed on paid administrative leave April 25, 2016. Last May, the bureau notified firefighters and emergency responders that it had discovered errors in the scoring of various exams during an internal audit and that a review found that many former academy students had actually failed tests they were told they had passed.

In June, the department announced it had launched a criminal investigation days after the retirement of Novak, who had served as bureau chief since 2001. Based on the Iowa State University campus in Ames, the bureau has provided training to firefighters since 1923 and provides training courses, certification and other services.

In its report, the bureau noted a total of 2,278 certificates were issued in error to 1,706 firefighters and emergency personnel over the four-year span. A total of 9,231 certificates were issued in that time.

The certificates were in the following disciplines: hazardous materials operations, firefighter I, firefighter II, driver operator pumper, driver operator aerial, fire officer I, fire officer II, instructor I and fire inspector I.

The improper certifications were issued to firefighters and other workers, such as employees who specialize in hazardous materials operations.

The certification and accreditation programs are voluntary and are not required by the state of Iowa or nationally. Some local agencies either require or recommend certification of their employees, the bureau noted.

The agency said it was notifying the affected individuals and departments, and that the bureau would offer free training courses and test retakes beginning next month and running through June.

Its just too bad. Puts a mark on us, said Phil Newton, fire and safety coordinator with the City of Carter Lake.

Newton said his department has not been notified by the state yet. A number of area volunteer departments said the same thing.

Neola Fire Chief Paul Ward said he hadnt received any word about the issue, while Clint Fichter  Avoca city manager, Shelby city attorney and a Neola city consultant  said none of the cities he works for had been notified.

Glenwood Fire Chief Butch Fidler said his department had not received word from the bureau.

I just talked to my instructor  we havent received any notifications yet, Fidler said. We do have new firefighters that have certified in last two years. Dont know if theyre included in that.

Treynor Fire Chief Russ Maguire said his department didnt have any personnel the issue would affect.

The Fire Services Training Bureau said new procedures in place will provide additional checks and balances within the bureau, including random reviews of the process. In addition, third-party scoring will be used for all certification exams.

This report contains material from the Associated Press.
CLARINDA, Iowa  Citing dysfunction, accusations and a lack of leadership, the Page County communications director and emergency management coordinator told the Page County Board that hes resigning.

During a meeting Tuesday, Director Marvin McClarnon attended the portion of the meeting designated to take action on financing up to $900,000 for planned improvements to the countys 911 system.

Thats when he informed the supervisors of his decision, effective in two weeks.

A majority of McClarnons work, after he was hired by the Page County Emergency Management Commission in May 2015, has been trying to improve 911 reception between dispatch and emergency service units and staff the dispatch center.

In July 2010, a committee of the county board of supervisors chairman, county sheriff and police chiefs in Clarinda and Shenandoah agreed to consolidate 911 call centers in Clarinda and Shenandoah into one location in five years.

That merger was in March, but the nagging communication problem between dispatch and emergency service units continued. The move was never intended to fix the problems.

You inherited a mess, board member Chuck Morris said.

Board member Jon Herzberg asked McClarnon not to resign.

In November, the countys E-911 Commission approved a repair and improvement plan, costing an estimated $750,000, from Tusa Consulting. That plan is to be implemented this year and finished in 2018.

McClarnon urged the board to hold off on approving that financing, until the commission agreed on what it wanted, speculating another improvement proposal may be made when the Page County Emergency Management Commission meets Monday.

McClarnon said efforts to improve the 911 system have been hampered by a lack of teamwork among the county commissions.

Emergency response units in Shenandoah and Essex have been more vocal about their difficulty in hearing and relaying information from the countys 911 call center in Clarinda.

McClarnon suggested his replacement be someone who has lived in Page County his entire life. A graduate of South Page High School, McClarnon spent 20 years in the Air Force before returning.

Hire someone who lives here all the time and knows who to talk to, he said. My name has been dragged through the toilet. Im sure Ive made mistakes, but consider what we are trying to accomplish. Im not a quitter, but everybody has got a point.
DENISON, Iowa  The discovery of Yoana Acostas body this week in the Boyer River was the product of dozens of searchers, days of work and unstinting determination to find the 15-year-old girl.

We didnt want to give up, Crawford County Sheriff James Steinkuehler said at a press conference Friday morning. We wanted to continue on because I put myself in that place and thought if that was my child, or anybody elses child, we wanted to make sure we were going to give it all we had and all we could until we exhausted all our resources.

Acosta, from Denison, had been missing since early Jan. 19, after the car she was in crashed in the Boyer River.

She was one of five people in the car. One person got to the rivers bank and walked to a trailer house directly east of the accident site. The homeowner alerted authorities.

Three of the remaining people in the vehicle were rescued, including Yoanas sister, Valeria, 19. But Yoana, who was last seen standing in the water, was gone.

Felony drug and misdemeanor traffic charges were filed Tuesday against the 25-year-old driver of the car, Ramon Hernandez.

Local authorities and volunteers combed the river for days, walking through 38-degree water, but it took a cadaver dog to locate Acostas remains Thursday afternoon.

Her body was completely immersed in 20 to 24 inches of water, snagged on an object. Steinkuehler said her remains were found a little east of the middle of the river, which is about 30 to 35 feet wide at that point. The location was 2.25 miles downstream from the site of the accident.
LINCOLN  The head of the Legislatures Revenue Committee said hed like to see the push to collect Internet sales taxes become part of the broader effort to reduce state income taxes.

State Sen. Jim Smith of Papillion, chairman of the Revenue Committee, has been advocating for a cut in state income taxes for several years.

On Friday that committee heard an avalanche of support for two bills that seek to force Internet retailers from other states to begin collecting sales taxes owed on purchases by Nebraskans.

Each of the bills would generate an estimated $30 million to $40 million a year in tax revenue for Nebraska at a time when state lawmakers are looking for ways to close a $900 million gap between projected spending and tax receipts.

Smith, in his first year as chairman of the influential tax policy committee, said he would like to explore making one of the two Internet bills part of a proposal  or at least a companion to a proposal  to reduce state income taxes.

The senator is sponsoring two separate bills that would, over a period of years, eventually reduce the states top income tax rate to 5.99 percent from the current 6.84 percent.

Using the extra revenue from Internet sales taxes would make passage of the tax reforms a stronger possibility, Smith said Friday following the hearing.

I believe this is the year for comprehensive tax reform. I really think it is possible, he said.

One snag in combining or coupling the two ideas might be Gov. Pete Ricketts, whose income tax reduction plan, Legislative Bill 337, was introduced by Smith.

On Friday Ricketts said that the December announcement by Internet giant Amazon that it would voluntarily begin remitting sales taxes to Nebraska shows how Internet sales tax can be collected without imposing new, onerous regulations.

The governor has included the extra taxes expected from Amazon, estimated at $11 million, as part of his plan to balance the state budget.

But Ricketts spokesman, Taylor Gage, added that requiring other Internet companies to also remit taxes was an issue for the U.S. Congress, not the Nebraska Legislature.

State Sens. John McCollister of Omaha and Dan Watermeier of Syracuse presented the two bills on taxing Internet sales on Friday.

Both proposals are in reaction to years of complaints from traditional brick-and-mortar retailers about the unfair playing field that requires them to collect sales taxes but allows Internet retailers to escape collecting taxes unless they have a warehouse or some other physical presence in the state.

At least 17 states have introduced similar legislation this year, in part because of inaction in Congress over the tax fairness issue.

While Nebraskans who purchase goods over the Internet are required by law to voluntarily report those sales and pay the taxes, that almost never happens. Thus, someone can save 5.5 percent or more  the amount of state and local sales taxes  if she buys over the Internet rather than at a store in Nebraska.

Alan Hirschfeld, whose family has run a clothing store in North Platte for 100 years, told lawmakers on Friday that he regularly sees a practice he calls showrooming.

Customers come in, he said, and try on an expensive coat or jacket. Then they walk outside, sit on a park bench and order the same product on their smartphone.

One recent customer proclaimed that she could save $21 by ordering a jacket on the Internet. So Hirschfeld agreed to provide her a $21 discount to keep her as a customer, wiping out any profit for him.

This situation should not be allowed to continue. Its just not fair, said McCollister, who has watched his wife, who owned toy stores, experience showrooming as well.

Watermeier said that hes letting the Revenue Committee decide how to use the anticipated $30 million to $40 million in revenue from his LB 44.

McCollisters LB 564 would generate a similar amount, according to the Legislative Fiscal Office. But the senator said Friday that the estimate should be revisited, because his bill might generate more revenue because it would pertain to more Internet retailers. LB 564 requires companies that made at least $25,000 a year in sales in Nebraska to remit taxes, while Watermeiers bill sets the threshold at $100,000 a year or more in sales.

About 30 business organizations, cities and merchants provided testimony in support of the two bills.

But four organizations, including Americans for Prosperity, submitted letters of opposition to the two bills.

They said that such requirements would put new burdens on Internet companies, hurt sales and produce costly legal bills for Nebraska. South Dakotas law is being challenged in court, though Colorados law has been upheld by the federal court there.

Conservative groups in the past have argued that such bills represent a tax increase, though both Watermeier and McCollister said their proposals were about collecting taxes that were already due.

State officials have said that only about 1 percent of Nebraska taxpayers voluntarily report their Internet purchases, and pay the taxes due, on their state income tax forms.

Watermeier said he planned to make his proposal his priority bill, thus ensuring a debate on the proposal. With the states budget woes, theres no better time to pass it, he said.

The longer we wait, the harder it will be for the general public to understand its not a new tax, the senator said.
LINCOLN  A fight over filibuster rules erupted on the floor of the Nebraska Legislature on Friday, revealing frustrations about partisanship and how long its taking to get on to the states business.

Senators adjourned without adopting permanent rules, instead choosing to extend the temporary rules for more than a week in hopes that a compromise will be reached in the meantime.

State Sen. Burke Harr of Omaha, a Democrat, said theres a good faith effort on both sides to negotiate.

The question is: How do we determine majority rule with minority rights? he said.

Emotions flared during Fridays debate, during which Omaha State Sen. Ernie Chambers, joined by several Democratic lawmakers, vowed not to stop objecting to a proposed filibuster change they said would allow the Legislatures majority to trump the minority.

Though officially nonpartisan, the Legislature has 32 Republicans, 15 Democrats, an independent and a Libertarian.

This is a travesty, declared Chambers, the bodys lone independent. We look like a bunch of fools. The Legislature is foundering.

Ive been here 17 days, (and we) havent done squat, said frustrated freshman Sen. Steve Erdman of Bayard, a Republican.

The debate was prompted by a proposal by Sen. Tyson Larson of ONeill to require at least 20 votes to defeat a cloture motion.

Cloture motions are filed when a supporter of a bill wants to end a filibuster, which is a delay tactic used by those who want to kill a piece of legislation. Cloture forces an immediate vote on a bills advancement. If not met, a bill effectively dies.

Under the Legislatures current rules, ending a filibuster requires 33 votes, or a majority of the 49 senators. Seventeen votes can sustain a filibuster, or block legislation.

Larsons proposal would increase the number of senators needed to continue a filibuster and would pressure those who are absent or present but not voting to go on record if they want to kill a bill.

Lincoln State Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks, a Democrat, said the proposal would silence the bodys minority members.

We can keep talking rules through the whole session, if thats what you want, she said. But I think many of you realize were not unreasonable people.

Larson, a Republican, said his proposal is in response to threats by Democrats to stall bills all session. They are being obstructionist, he said.

Larson said he was referring to comments by Sen. Bob Krist of Omaha. Krist, a Republican who doesnt always vote along party lines, said he never issued a threat.

Sen. Sara Howard of Omaha, a Democrat, said she had no intention of filibustering every bill, however, every person has their lines in the sand.

If you mess with kids, or the disabled, or the vulnerable, or this institution, those are my lines in the sand, she said. Thats when I will go to town, or go to the mattresses, per The Godfather. 

Larson brought his proposal directly to the floor, instead of being vetted first by the Rules Committee. The committee rejected a similar proposal by new Sen. Mike Hilgers of Lincoln, who chairs that committee.

Speaking on Larsons proposal, Hilgers said he wants to preserve the legislative minoritys rights but doesnt want filibusters to take over the session.

The fight stems in part from the first day of the session when a so-called block of 27 senators voted together on legislative leadership positions, which resulted in the election of 17 Republicans, one Democrat and one Libertarian to committee leadership.

Sen. John McCollister of Omaha, a moderate Republican, said what occurred the first day was disgraceful and that such sneak attacks violate the nonpartisan nature of the Legislature intended by its founder, George Norris.

Freshman Sen. Joni Albrecht, a Republican who was elected to chair the Business and Labor Committee over Harr, the previous chairman, said shes content maintaining the rule of needing 33 votes to overcome a filibuster, unless she changes her mind during debate.

She rejected criticism of a block of 27 senators, sometimes referred to Friday as the gang of 27.

I am my own person and one vote, Albrecht said.

She said she too believes that the Democrats are dividing the body.

If you are in the minority, why wouldnt you try to work with us? she said. Were Nebraska. Were that nicey nice state. Were not Washington. Were not Congress. We need to rise above all this and get to work.
NEW YORK, Jan. 27, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against New Oriental Education & Technology Group Inc. (New Oriental or the Company) (NYSE:EDU) and certain of its officers. The class action, filed in United States District Court, District of New Jersey, is on behalf of a class consisting of all persons or entities who purchased or otherwise acquired New Oriental American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) between September 27, 2016 and December 1, 2016, both dates inclusive (the Class Period), seeking to recover compensable damages caused by defendants violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.



If you are a shareholder who purchased New Oriental ADRs during the Class Period, you have until February 13, 2017 to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com. To discuss this action, contact Robert S. Willoughby at rswilloughby@pomlaw.com or 888.476.6529 (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll free, ext. 9980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and number of shares purchased.

[Click here to join this class action]

New Oriental is a Cayman Islands corporation headquartered in Beijing, Peoples Republic of China (PRC). New Oriental provides private educational services under the New Oriental brand in the PRC.

The Complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements, as well as failed to disclose material adverse facts about the Companys business, operations, and prospects. Specifically, Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) New Oriental engaged in college application fraud; and (2) as a result, defendants' statements about New Oriental's business, operations and prospects were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times.

On December 2, 2016, Reuters published a report detailing allegations of academic fraud at the company. Specifically, Reuters reported that eight former and current New Oriental employees informed Reuters that New Oriental engaged in college application fraud, including writing application essays and teacher recommendations, and falsifying high school transcripts.

On that same day, Reuters reported that the American International Recruitment Council, which certifies agencies that recruit foreign students on behalf of U.S. colleges, will investigate the company in response to the Reuters report.

On this news, shares of the Company fell $6.99 per share or over 14% from its previous closing price to close at $42.00 per share on December 2, 2016, damaging investors.

The Pomerantz Firm, with offices in New York, Chicago, Florida, and Los Angeles, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, the Pomerantz Firm pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 80 years later, the Pomerantz Firm continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomerantzlaw.com
An Omaha public works employee with a reputation for being a leader on safety has died, days after he was struck by a car while preparing to repair a pothole.

Salvatore Fidone III, 48, of Council Bluffs, was working Monday morning at 144th and U Streets when he was hit and taken to the Nebraska Medical Center.

Fidone was someone who was hardworking and also cared a great deal about his fellow workers, said Austin Rowser, the citys street maintenance engineer, speaking at a press conference at Mayor Jean Stotherts office Friday afternoon. He was always really reminding his other crew members to be safe on a job site and to take all of the safety precautions.

Fidone was standing on the drivers side of a city truck as his crew prepared to fill potholes when a 2012 Toyota Camry drifted from a northbound lane on 144th Street and struck him, police have said.

The car was driven by Alan R. Solarana, 53, of Omaha.

Stothert said Friday that an initial investigation showed that the members of the city crew, led by Fidone, were wearing their reflective vests, had displayed the proper warnings to motorists and had parked their trucks properly.

Solarana has not been charged. Attempts to reach him Friday were unsuccessful.

Omaha police are still investigating, Stothert said.

Investigators will forward the results to the county attorney, who will decide if there will be charges.

The city safety division also is investigating to ensure that proper safety procedures were followed, she said.

Fidones relatives said in a statement that they wanted to extend their heartfelt thanks and deep gratitude to everyone who has showered Sal and our family with such love and support.

His family said Fidone had made the choice to extend the lives of others by donating his organs to those in critical need. We are honored that a small piece of him will allow other families more time together.

Fidone had already donated a kidney to one of his brothers, Stothert said.

He had been with the city since October 2015, but he had many longtime friends who worked for street maintenance, Rowser said.

He was generally regarded as someone with just a real positive attitude, a real positive demeanor, a likable person, Rowser said

Stothert said she had met with Fidones family.

This is a difficult time for Mr. Fidones co-workers in the street maintenance division who come to work each day to provide an important service to everyone who uses our city streets.

I ask you to keep the Fidone family and our city employees in your prayers.

Tony Burkhalter, a representative of Omaha City Employees Union Local 251, issued a statement Friday on behalf of Fidones co-workers.

This is a heartbreaking day for all of us that have worked alongside Mr. Fidone, Burkhalter said. Our goal at this time is to be there for Sals family, specifically his two sons.

He also urged the public to watch out for city workers.

We want the public to please be mindful of construction workers when you see us working in the streets. We have families, and just like everyone else, we want to go home at the end of the day, Burkhalter said. Please pray for the Fidone family, friends, co-workers and all that were touched by his presence.

A GoFundMe page was set up by the union to raise money for Fidones relatives. And Burkhalter said the union was planning a fundraiser March 4 at the Firefighters Union Hall at 60th and Grover Streets.
An Omaha-area retreat center run by an order of Catholic nuns will be closing this summer, the order announced Friday.

The Sisters of Mercy West Midwest Community plans to close the Knowles Mercy Spirituality Center in Waterloo, Nebraska.

The order determined that it does not have enough sisters or the funding to continue the ministry, said Sandy Goetzinger, spokeswoman for the order. The orders leadership team made the decision after reviewing a study on the future of the center, she said.

The director of the center will work with groups that have booked the center to help them find alternative arrangements, Goetzinger said.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Two federal courts ruled late Saturday against part of President Donald Trumps executive order barring citizens of seven Muslim nations from entering the United States.

A federal court in Brooklyn granted a nationwide stay preventing the government from deporting people who arrived with valid U.S. visas. Our own government presumably approved their entry to the country, said Judge Ann Donnelly of the Eastern District of New York.

A second judge, in Virginia, issued a temporary restraining order preventing the deportation of permanent U.S. residents who arrived at Dulles International Airport outside Washington. U.S. District Judge Leonie M. Brinkema of the Eastern District of Virginia also ruled that the detained passengers must be given access to attorneys.

Donnelly granted the stay after an emergency hearing in a lawsuit brought by the American Civil Liberties Union on behalf of two men who had been detained at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York. The men were later released.

The ACLU, other civil rights groups and hundreds of protesters at U.S. airports cheered the decision, though they cautioned that the reprieve is temporary and affects only visa holders who already had arrived in the United States and were being held at airports. While it prevents them from being deported, the ruling stops short of ordering their release, raising concerns among attorneys about an extended detention as the arrivals wait in limbo for a permanent decision in the case.

The ACLU estimates that between 100 and 200 people are being held in U.S. airports because of Trumps executive order, which upended thousands of lives overnight, including permanent U.S. residents who were denied entry or stranded abroad over the weekend.

Outraged families and advocacy groups publicized cases of visa holders and permanent residents, including some who have held green cards for decades, being detained at airports or barred from entering the United States, including at least 50 who were being held at the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport.

Angry, confused and frustrated family members who had been waiting for loved ones chanted This is what democracy looks like and held signs that read Release our Family! and Deport Trump!! in the international area of the Dallas airports Terminal D. Federal officials would not confirm the number of people being detained, and airport officials declined to comment.

Large crowds of protesters also gathered outside JFK airport in New York after word circulated that two Iraqis had been detained. Airports in San Francisco and a few other cities drew similar demonstrations.

The order barred U.S. border agents from removing anyone who arrived in the U.S. with a valid visa from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen. It also covered anyone with an approved refugee application.

It was unclear how quickly the order might affect people in detention.

Under Trump's order, it had appeared that an untold number of foreign-born U.S. residents now traveling outside the U.S. could be stuck overseas for at least 90 days even though they held permanent residency "green cards" or other visas. However, an official with the Department of Homeland Security said Saturday night that no green-card holders from the seven countries cited in Trump's order had been prevented from entering the U.S.

Some foreign nationals who were allowed to board flights before the order was signed Friday had been detained at U.S. airports, told they were no longer welcome. The DHS official who briefed reporters by phone said 109 people who were in transit on airplanes had been denied entry and 173 had not been allowed to get on their planes overseas.

Trump billed his sweeping executive order as a necessary step to stop "radical Islamic terrorists" from coming to the U.S. Included is a 90-day ban on travel to the U.S. by citizens of Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia or Yemen and a 120-day suspension of the U.S. refugee program.

Trump's order singled out Syrians for the most aggressive ban, indefinitely blocking entry for anyone from that country, including those fleeing civil war.

The directive did not do anything to prevent attacks from homegrown extremists who were already in America, a primary concern of federal law enforcement officials. It also omitted Saudi Arabia, home to most of the Sept. 11 hijackers.

As a candidate Trump pledged to temporarily ban Muslims from coming to the U.S., then said he would implement "extreme vetting" for people from countries with significant terror concerns.

Trump told reporters Saturday the order is "not a Muslim ban."

"It's working out very nicely," Trump said of the implementation of his order. "We're going to have a very, very strict ban and we're going to have extreme vetting, which we should have had in this country for many years."

The order sparked protests at several of the nation's international airports, including New York's Kennedy and Chicago's O'Hare and facilities in Minneapolis and Dallas-Forth Worth. In San Francisco, hundreds blocked the street outside the arrival area of the international terminal. Several dozen demonstrated at the airport in Portland, Oregon, briefly disrupting light rail service while hoisting signs that read "Portland Coffee Is From Yemen" and chanting anti-Trump slogans. Among the dozens showing support for refugees at Denver's airport were those who sang "refugees are welcome here."

U.S. lawmakers and officials around the globe also criticized the move. U.S. Sen. Ben Sasse, R-Neb., who serves on the Senate Armed Services Committee, said while Trump is right to focus on border security, the order is "too broad."

"If we send a signal to the Middle East that the U.S. sees all Muslims as jihadis, the terrorist recruiters win by telling kids that America is banning Muslims and that this is America versus one religion," Sasse said. "Our generational fight against jihadism requires wisdom."

In Tehran, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Iran would stop issuing new visas to U.S. citizens in response to Trump's ban, but that anyone already with a visa to Iran wouldn't be turned away.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau took to Twitter Saturday afternoon to say that refugees were welcome in Canada, "regardless of your faith."

Two of the first people blocked from entering the United States were Iraqis with links to the U.S. military.

Hameed Khalid Darweesh and Haider Sameer Abdulkhaleq Alshawi were detained by immigration officials after landing at New York's Kennedy airport Friday night. Both had been released by Saturday night after their lawyers intervened.

Darweesh had worked as an interpreter for the U.S. Army when it invaded Iraq in 2003 and later worked as a contract engineer. In their court filing, his lawyers said Alshawai's wife had worked for a U.S. security contractor in Iraq. Members of her family had been killed by insurgents because of their association with the U.S. military.

The government can exempt foreign nationals from the ban if their entry is deemed in the national interest. But it was not immediately clear how that exemption might be applied.

Diplomats from the seven countries singled out by Trump's order would still be allowed into the U.S.

Those already in the U.S. with a visa or green card would be allowed to stay, according to the official, who wasn't authorized to publicly discuss the details of how Trump's order was being put in place and spoke only on condition of anonymity.

Trump's order also directed U.S. officials to review information as needed to fully vet foreigners asking to come to the U.S. and draft a list of countries that don't provide that information. That left open the possibility that citizens of other countries could also face a travel ban.

The U.S. may still admit refugees on a case-by-case basis during the freeze, and the government would continue to process requests from people claiming religious persecution, "provided that the religion of the individual is a minority religion in the individual's country."

The Council on American-Islamic Relations said it would challenge the constitutionality of Trump's order.

"There is no evidence that refugees the most thoroughly vetted of all people entering our nation are a threat to national security," said Lena F. Masri, the group's national litigation director. "This is an order that is based on bigotry, not reality."

John Cohen, a former Department of Homeland Security counterterrorism official who worked under Democratic and Republican administrations, said the order didn't address America's "primary terrorism-related threat" people already in the U.S. who become inspired by what they see on the internet.

Trump's order drew support from some Republican lawmakers who have urged more security measures for the refugee vetting program, particularly for those from Syria.

"We are a compassionate nation and a country of immigrants. But as we know, terrorists are dead set on using our immigration and refugee programs as a Trojan Horse to attack us," House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Michael McCaul said in a statement Friday. "With the stroke of a pen, he is doing more to shut down terrorist pathways into this country than the last administration did in eight years."

It is unclear how many people would be immediately impacted by the non-refugee travel ban. According to the statistics maintained by the Homeland Security Department, about 17,000 students from the seven designated countries were allowed into the U.S. for the 2015-2016 school year. In 2015 more than 86,000 people from those countries arrived in the U.S. on other, non-immigrant visas and more than 52,000 others became legal permanent residents.

Last year the U.S. resettled 85,000 people displaced by war, political oppression, hunger and religious prejudice, including more than 12,000 Syrians. Before leaving office President Barack Obama announced that the U.S. would accept 110,000 refugees in the coming year, but Trump's order cut that by more than half to 50,000.

No refugees were in the air when the travel ban was signed Friday, but about 350 people were in transit in Nairobi, Kenya, and were now stuck there, said Melanie Nezer, vice president of policy and advocacy for HIAS, a refugee resettlement aid agency. She said several hundred more people who were booked on U.S.-bound flights in the next week were now stranded around the globe.

"This in effect could be a permanent ban," she said. "Many of these people may never be able to come."

This report includes material from the McClatchy Washington Bureau.
President Donald Trumps order for strict new screenings for refugees is raising concerns for local organizations that help them resettle in Nebraska.

The president said the aim is to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States.

The refugee groups are concerned that the order could have broader effects and keep refugees from reuniting with relatives who are already here. One refugee organization said the order could affect refugees who are trying to escape war and other dangers.

Others say the stricter screening will be effective.

Taylor Gage, a spokesman for Gov. Pete Ricketts, said the governor applauds President Donald J. Trumps efforts to swiftly strengthen security screening, so that Nebraska can continue to safely welcome those seeking refuge from political and religious persecution from around the world.

Local groups that assist refugees had other reactions about the screening and raised concerns about broader effects of the order, such as indefinitely suspending the Syrian refugee program:

 Amelia Rosser, interim assistant director, Refugee Empowerment Center, Omaha:

I think applying this terrorist label may affect more than the few who could be described as terrorists. It could affect people from Muslim countries in general. The presidents action could also affect refugees who are hoping to join relatives in Nebraska. We could have family members who are split. There is a lot of uncertainty. Refugees already in Nebraska will not be affected by the order. Our organization will continue to provide services to them.

 Ruth Henrichs, Lutheran Family Services president and CEO:

Lutheran Family Services strongly opposes President Trumps executive order. Our mission calls us to express Gods love for all people and to welcome the stranger seeking refuge from oppression and the horrors of war. As people of faith, we stand in solidarity alongside refugees. We cannot forget who refugees are  they are parents, children and the most vulnerable among us who have lost everything. They have fled discrimination, threats and violence  seeking safety and hope for a better future.

 Kaela Volkmer, among St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church members who helped resettle a Syrian family in Omaha in December:

The family has relatives in Turkey who are hoping to resettle in the United States. I know our family hopes they can connect with those relatives. I cant imagine how devastating it must be for refugees waiting in camps who want to unite with relatives in this country. I hope our country will continue to step up and welcome refugees. It is the moral and humane thing to do.
Sidney authorities are investigating two deaths, the Cheyenne County Attorney said Friday.

In a press release, Cheyenne County attorney Paul Schaub said authorities are investigating the deaths of a man and a woman at 2226 Maple St. in Sidney.

When asked if foul play was involved, Schaub said, "It's too early to rule that out at this time." Law enforcement responded to the scene earlier today after the woman's employer called to report that she had not reported to work for several days.

He did not release further details, except to say that autopsies have been ordered and authorities are attempting to confirm the identity of the two deceased adults.

The Cheyenne County Sheriffs Office, Sidney Police Department, and the Nebraska State Patrol are investigating Further details will be released as additional information becomes available, Schaub said.
WASHINGTON  Like many of the abortion opponents marching Friday, Shanna Hoven savored the moment when she reached the top of Capitol Hill and was able to look back at the throngs of people still coming behind her.

Its just amazing to see how many people care, Hoven said. Every single year, the numbers grow. And every single year, the crowd gets younger and younger.

The 17-year-old student from Bishop Neumann High School in Wahoo, Nebraska, was among the Nebraskans and Iowans in the nations capital for the annual March for Life.

No official crowd count was available, but the size of the demonstration seemed larger than in previous years, and the evidence of abortion opponents increased political might was easy to find.

Vice President Mike Pence spoke at the rally, making him the highest-ranking official to speak at the march in its 44-year history. White House counselor Kellyanne Conway also spoke, which was a thrill for Hoven.

I believe she is the true woman who broke the glass ceiling, Hoven said. Shes a mother, shes pro-life, she is an adviser to Trump and she is a hardworking woman. She just inspires me. Shes my role model along with Ivanka Trump.

This years march had a higher profile in part because it followed an outpouring of demonstrators in the recent Womens March on Washington, which had a mission statement that included support for abortion rights.

Hoven was among hundreds who came from Lincoln. In addition, the Archdiocese of Omaha organized six buses that ferried more than 300 adults and students to the event, which is typically held on or around the anniversary of the landmark Roe v. Wade case that made abortion legal nationwide.

Polls show that Americans remain deeply divided on abortion. Many believe that abortion should remain legal, at least in some circumstances.

That wasnt the view at Fridays rally, however. Midlands marchers took note of the many clever handmade signs and chants featuring anti-abortion themes. They talked about the connections forged with marchers from other parts of the country.

And the mood was bolstered by the fact that Republicans control the White House and both chambers of Congress for the first time in a decade.

At the rally, Sen. Joni Ernst, of Iowa pointed to her previous efforts to defund Planned Parenthood, calling the group the largest single provider of abortions.

Former President Barack Obama vetoed that measure, but Ernst said she plans to reintroduce similar legislation next week and hopes it will fare better with President Donald Trump.

Back then we did not have a president that respected life and he stopped us, Ernst said. Thankfully, today is a different story.

Indeed, Capitol Hill Republicans are eager to push proposals in the new political environment.

Rep. Steve King, R-Iowa, recently introduced a bill that would ban abortion if the doctor can detect a heartbeat. The bill has seven co-sponsors thus far, including Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., who appeared at a press conference this week to tout the legislation.

King said his bill would come close to effectively prohibiting all abortions because the heartbeat can be detected so early in a pregnancy, even before a woman realizes shes pregnant.

King suggested the bill could be a vehicle to get the issue back before the Supreme Court after Trump has appointed one or more new justices.

Any issue that has to do with life and abortion is going to be litigated to the Supreme Court level, King said. Were doing a bit of a head start here, but by the time we would march this thing down to the Supreme Court, the faces on the Supreme Court will be different. We just dont know how much different, but Im optimistic.

Meanwhile, other lawmakers have suggested it makes sense to pursue measures that could garner broader support.

Sen. Deb Fischer of Nebraska said she hasnt reviewed Kings proposal, but said she favors legislation prohibiting abortions after 20 weeks because it has bipartisan backing in Nebraska.

Sen. Ben Sasse of Nebraska said Congress should start with the most commonsense proposals, pointing to his own legislation that would require health providers to care for babies born alive during abortion procedures.

Trump is expected to name his first pick for the Supreme Court next week. His nominees record on abortion certainly will be an issue during the coming confirmation debate  a debate Sasse will be in the middle of as a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee.

Sasse hosted a coffee reception Friday morning for Nebraskans attending the march.

After surveying the many students in the room, he said such marches include more young people than they did 20 years ago  a change he attributed in part to sonogram technology.

There are so many young people in the movement because young people have seen babies in mommies tummies  and they understand that thats a life and its precious and it has dignity and worth, Sasse said.

During the Obama administration, abortion opponents felt like they were waging an uphill battle. But now they see opportunity, hailing Trumps quick action to reinstate a policy banning U.S. aid to international groups that promote abortion.

Rep. Jeff Fortenberry of Nebraska said its a matter of fundamental justice to see Roe v. Wade overturned.

This is an absolute disaster for our country, Fortenberry said. Fifty million-plus lives lost, women scarred, families torn apart, an ongoing 40-year debate about this. Its wounded the soul of the nation. We can do better.

He said there are immediate steps that can be taken to shut down taxpayer funding used for abortions, but abortion opponents also have to make the case for more aggressive action.

Parallel with that, though, has to be a cultural movement that sees abortion and the abortion industry for what it is: It is violence against women, Fortenberry said. Pro-life people like me have to do a much better job of saying we can all do better, no matter how hard the circumstances.

They have their work cut out for them. A 2016 Pew Research Center poll showed that 57 percent of Americans say abortion should be legal in all or most cases  the highest percentage since 1996. Meanwhile, 39 percent favor making it illegal in all or most cases.

Several marchers said they saw Fridays event as helping to make their case to the public.

The march is so important to me because I feel like its our chance to be a voice for the voiceless, said Alexa Krings, 22, of Lincoln. Especially since a fourth of our generation is gone because of abortion, we want to stand up for all of those unborn children.

She also said she understands that it will take time.

The end goal is to overturn Roe, make abortion illegal, Krings said. But I think its going to be a whole bunch of steps.

This report contains material from the Associated Press.
On Friday, President Trump signed an executive order banning people from several countries  including Iran, Iraq, Syria, Somalia, Yemen, Libya and Sudan  from entering the United States for 90 days. The measure also suspended admission of all refugees for at least 120 days and from Syria indefinitely.

The decision sent shock waves around the world, throwing U.S. immigration policy into chaos. In 2016, the State Department issued 617,752 immigrant visas and 10,891,745 nonimmigrant visas. About 5 percent went to people from Iran, Iraq, Syria, Libya, Sudan, Somalia and Yemen. Here's how the affected countries are beginning to hit back at the legislation, along with reaction from around the world:

In Iraq, Renas Jano, a member of the parliament's foreign affairs committee, told journalists that "after the U.S. president's decision to stop granting visas for Iraqi citizens, it is very likely that Iraq will stop granting U.S. citizens entry visas." This decision, he noted will largely impact American soldiers, diplomats and companies that do business in the country. "Iraqi students would be affected also," he noted. Fellow Iraqi lawmaker Majid Chenkali, a Kurdish Sunni, told reporters that his country should respond with similar visa policies for Americans. "It should be an eye for an eye," he said.

Iran issued a statement Saturday morning calling Trump's executive order "a flagrant insult to the Muslim world, especially the great Iranian nation." Iranian officials also took aim at the idea that the measure would keep Americans safer. "It will be recorded in the history as a great gift to extremists and their sponsors," the statement read. Iran said it is closely monitoring the short-term fallout from the move and is considering "appropriate legal, consular and diplomatic measures."

The United Nations urged Trump to reconsider his ban. "The needs of refugees and migrants worldwide have never been greater and the U.S. resettlement program is one of the most important in the world," the organization said in a statement.

France attacked Trump's decision as isolationist. French President Francois Hollande told reporters that Europe must unite and provide a "firm" response to the executive order. "When he refuses the arrival of refugees, while Europe has done its duty, we have to respond."

Germany has taken in more than one million refugees and migrants since 2015. The country's leaders condemned Trump's executive order. "The United States is a country where Christian traditions have an important meaning. Loving your neighbor is a major Christian value, and that includes helping people," German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel said at a news conference in Paris. "I think that is what unites us in the West, and I think that is what we want to make clear to the Americans."

Theresa May, prime minister of the United Kingdom, refused to say whether she supported the executive order.

Sudan called Trump's decision "very unfortunate," especially in light of "historic steps" to lift sanctions for cooperation on combating terrorism. Just weeks ago, the Obama administration agreed to lift a 20-year-old trade embargo against the country. It also remove financial sanctions, thanks to Khartoum's cooperation in fighting Islamic State and other groups.

Even former Vice President Richard B. Cheney denounced Trump's ban, saying it "goes against everything we stand for and believe in." "I think this whole notion that somehow we can just say no more Muslims, just ban a whole religion, goes against everything we stand for and believe in. I mean, religious freedom has been a very important part of our history and where we came from," Cheney said in a Monday appearance on a radio show. "A lot of people, my ancestors got here, because they were Puritans."

The Church World Service released a statement signed by more than 2,000 faith leaders decrying the "derogatory language that has been used about Middle Eastern refugees and our Muslim friends and neighbors. Inflammatory rhetoric has no place in our response to this humanitarian crisis," they wrote. "The U.S. Refugee Resettlement program has been and should remain open to those of all nationalities and religions who face persecution on account of the reasons enumerated under U.S. law." Signers included the Revs. Elizabeth A. Eaton, presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America; John C. Dorhauer, president of the United Church of Christ; and Bishop Bruce R. Ough, president of the United Methodist Church's Council of Bishops.
AMMAN, Jordan (AP)  Syrian refugee Ammar Sawan took his first step toward resettlement in the United States three months ago, submitting to an initial round of security screenings.

His dreams of a better life were crushed when President Donald Trump issued an indefinite ban on displaced Syrians entering the United States.

Sawan said Saturday that he learned of the decision from TV news the night before.

"When we heard of the order, it was like a bolt of lightning, and all our hopes and dreams vanished," said Sawan, 40.

The upholsterer, who supports his family with odd jobs in the Jordanian capital of Amman, said he was especially disappointed for his four children who he had hoped would get a good education in the U.S.

He and other Syrian refugees in Amman bristled at the idea that they posed a potential security threat, saying they were both shocked and saddened by Trump's ban.

"We tell the American people that we hope he (Trump) retracts this decision," said refugee Mayada Sheik, 37. "We are not going out to harm people of other countries."

In an executive order Friday, Trump suspended all refugee admissions to the U.S. for four months and banned the entry of Syrian refugees indefinitely, pending a security review of the admissions program. In a third step, he issued a 90-day ban on all entry to the U.S. from countries with terrorism concerns, including Syria, Iraq and Libya.

Close to 5 million Syrians have fled their homeland since the conflict there erupted in 2011. Millions more are displaced within Syria.

Most refugees have settled in overburdened neighboring countries, including Jordan, Lebanon and Turkey where the struggle for survival has become increasingly difficult. Savings have run out, jobs are scarce and poorly paid, while refugee children learn in crowded classrooms and have very limited access to higher education.

Many refugees say their first choice is to return home as soon as possible. But with the civil war dragging on, that's not an option and refugees increasingly pursue resettlement to the West because of tough conditions in regional host countries.

International aid agencies harshly criticized Trump's restrictions imposed on refugees.

The International Rescue Committee said the suspension of the refugee resettlement program was a "harmful and hasty" decision. "America must remain true to its core values. America must remain a beacon of hope," said IRC President David Miliband.

The group said the U.S. vetting process for refugees is already robust  involving biometric screening and up to 36 months of vetting by 12 to 15 government agencies.

Jan Egeland, the head of the Norwegian Refugee Council, said Trump's decision hurts innocents fleeing extremist violence in Syria.

"It will not make America safer," Egeland told The Associated Press in a phone interview from Norway. "It will make America smaller and meaner. It's a really sad rupture of a long and proud American bi-partisan tradition that America would be there for those fleeing from terror and for the weak and the vulnerable in the world, which are the refugees."

The NRC is a leading refugee aid agency, assisting more than 1 million Syrians.
WASHINGTON (AP)  It's been a getting-to-know-you first week for both President Donald Trump and the nation.

Trump's personal traits on display during the campaign seemed more pronounced in the august setting of the White House.

The new president made haste to turn "the Trump effect" into action. Old fights took on new oomph. And as the nation was learning more about Trump, the president was learning more about the ways of Washington.

Some prominent themes from week one of Trump:

COUNT ON IT

On an almost daily basis, Trump demonstrated his fixation with putting a yard stick to the size of his support.

He vastly overstated turnout for his inauguration  repeatedly. He revived unsubstantiated claims that he lost the popular vote to Democrat Hillary Clinton only because 3 million to 5 million people voted illegally.

He rehearsed anew details of his "great victory" in November. He complained in advance that the press would undercount the size of Friday's anti-abortion rally in Washington. At the CIA, he speculated "probably almost everybody in this room voted for me."

The tussle over the size of the inaugural crowd led Trump senior adviser Kellyanne Conway to introduce a new phrase to the lexicon: "alternative facts."

"TRUMP EFFECT"

Trump held a series of meetings and signed a number of executive orders and actions in his first week aimed at showing he was ready to deliver on top campaign promises on everything from unwinding President Barack Obama's health law to building a wall on the Mexican border and ditching the trans-Pacific trade deal.

White House advisers styled it "the Trump effect," writ large.

By Day 2, Conway was suggesting an "unbelievable" level of presidential activity. "Everything in Trump world feels like we did it in dog years," she told one TV interviewer. "You have to multiply it by seven."

Caveat: All modern presidents have tried to get off to a quick start in their first week in office.

Jimmy Carter pardoned Vietnam draft dodgers, Ronald Reagan ordered cuts in federal spending, Bill Clinton put his wife in charge of overhauling health care and Obama ordered the closure of Guantanamo Bay prison within a year. Clearly, things didn't always turn out as planned.

RSVP REGRETS

Trump added some drama to week one by getting into a very public international spat with a key U.S. ally.

The president first announced a scheduled meeting with Mexico's president, then suggested maybe Enrique Pena Nieto shouldn't come if he didn't agree that Mexico should pay for the border wall.

Pena Nieto quickly took the hint and the meeting was off. The dispute between two nations with $1.6 billion a day in cross-border trade played out  where else?  on Twitter.

The two leaders did talk by phone for an hour on Friday in what Trump called a "very, very friendly call." But former Mexican President Vicente Fox said the spat had put relations between the two countries "at the very lowest point since the war between Mexico and the United States."

DECLARING WAR

Trump seized on any opportunity to do battle in what he labeled a "running war" with the press. On his first full day in office, he called journalists "among the most dishonest people on earth." Another day he groused: "Nothing fair about the media. Nothing."

Those weren't just offhand pokes.

Senior White House strategist Stephen Bannon flatly told The New York Times: "The media here is the opposition party."

At the same time, Trump showed he's happy to use the press when it works to his advantage. When aides ushered reporters out of a Roosevelt Room event as a union leader began praising Trump's inaugural address, the president called out: "Hey, press, get back in here."

At a Friday news conference, the often confrontational presidential told a British reporter who had questioned whether the president could be believed: "Actually, I'm not as brash as you might think."

IT'S COMPLICATED

The details for how to fulfill some of Trump's crystal clear campaign promises began to look fuzzy as the week went on, with the plan for getting Mexico to pay for the border wall emerging as Exhibit A.

Trump told one TV interviewer it could get "complicated."

And how.

Press secretary Sean Spicer announced at one point that the administration was working with Congress on a plan to impose a 20 percent tax on Mexican imports. Less than an hour later, Spicer summoned reporters to his office to hedge that the tax was "just one option" and no final decision had been made.

LOOK WHO'S WATCHING

What's the chatter on TV? You might get an idea from listening to the new president.

Trump watchers have been noticing a connection between the talk on TV and the subjects of Trump tweets.

Minutes after Fox News labeled convicted Army leaker Chelsea Manning an "ungrateful traitor," Trump tweeted the same description.

Shortly after a CNN show interviewed Texan Gregg Phillips, who has made unsubstantiated allegations of voter fraud, Trump tweeted that he looked forward to seeing what Phillips uncovers.

WELCOME TO WASHINGTON, MR. PRESIDENT

First word that Trump was renewing his complaints about widespread voter fraud in the presidential election leaked from a closed meeting that he held with Senate leaders from both parties.

Trump seemed dismayed that word had gotten out from a meeting that was supposed to be confidential. "The deal was we wouldn't talk to the press," Trump groused to a TV interviewer. "And they go out and they talk to the press."

Given the porousness of leaky Washington, it would have been a bigger shock if meeting details hadn't leaked.

WEIRD, HUH?

Trump called it a "surreal" experience to suddenly be parachuted into life in the White House. He revealed to one interviewer that during his Inauguration Day ride with Obama from the White House to the Capitol for the swearing-in, he turned to the outgoing president and said: "This is a little weird, isn't it?"
NEW ORLEANS, Jan. 27, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") and KSF partner, the former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., reminds investors that they have until March 27, 2017 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against BT Group plc (NYSE:BT), if they purchased the Companys American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) between May 23, 2013 and January 23, 2017, inclusive (the Class Period). The action is pending in United States District Court for the Southern District of New York.



What You May Do

If you purchased ADRs of BT Group and would like to discuss your legal rights and how this case might affect you and your right to recover for your economic loss, you may, without obligation or cost to you, call toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or email KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn (lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com). If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in this class action, you must petition the Court by March 27, 2017.

About the Lawsuit

BT Group and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.

The alleged false and misleading statements and omissions include, but are not limited to, that: (i) BT Groups Italian division had for years engaged in improper accounting practices; (ii) BT Group significantly overstated its earnings throughout the Class Period; (iii) when the foregoing became known, would foreseeably cause BT Group to cut its revenue, earnings, and free cash flow forecasts; and (iv) as a result, BT Groups public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.

About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC

KSF, whose partners include the Former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is a law firm focused on securities, antitrust and consumer class actions, along with merger & acquisition and breach of fiduciary litigation against publicly traded companies on behalf of shareholders. The firm has offices in New York, California and Louisiana.

To learn more about KSF, you may visit www.ksfcounsel.com.
Amit Shah applies brakes on Eshwarappa's Rayanna Brigade, all is well claims Yeddyurappa

Bengaluru

oi-Anusha

By Anusha Ravi

Bengaluru, Jan 28: Warring leaders of the Karnataka BJP unit, BS Yeddyurappa and KS Eshwarappa put up a united front after their meet with party president Amit Shah. The senior leaders, while talking to the media after the meet said that they will now work as a united force in the state.

Senior leadership of the BJP managed to apply brakes on KS Eshwarappa's role in the Sangolli Rayanna Brigade but made him the Chief of OBC morcha as if to compensate. During the talks, round one seemed to belong to Yeddyurappa.

"I thank the party for making me the state in charge of OBC morcha. BS Yeddyurappa will be the next chief minister and we will work towards it unitedly. I will not participate in Sangolli Rayanna Brigade but Rayanna conventions will take place in all districts of Karnataka. Both Yeddyurappa and I will take part in them," said rebel K S Eshwarappa.

The highly public drama of the rift in the Karnataka BJP came as massive embarrassment which took the leaders to the senior leadership's doorstep on Friday. "Our aim is to keep the BJP united and work towards victory. Our efforts will be to eradicate the Congress," said B S Yeddyurappa.

While the BJP would like everyone to believe that all is well, sources from the party suggest that this is only a temporary agreement. It is only a matter of time before both leaders go back to being at loggerheads since many issues continue to be a bone of contention, sources said.

OneIndia News

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Story first published: Saturday, January 28, 2017, 1:02 [IST]
Bhansali manhandled by Rajput group: Bollywood demands justice

India

oi-PTI

Mumbai, Jan 28: A host of Bollywood celebrities including filmmakers Karan Johar, Anurag Kashyap and Mukesh Bhatt on Friday condemned the attack on Sanjay Leela Bhansali by activists of a Rajput community during the shooting of a film, and called for a united stand by the film industry to ensure safety of artists.

A group of activists force-stopped the shooting of the film, Padmavati, being helmed by the National Award-winning filmmaker, by vandalising the movie set at Jaigarh Fort in Jaipur and also assaulted him, alleging distortion of facts.

Johar, who recently faced the ire of a right wing organisation during the release of his film Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, said he could understand what Bhansali must be going through. "Having been through many instances of turmoil during a film shoot or release...i understand Sanjay's emotion at this point...I stand by him," Johar said.

Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap also exhorted the industry to unite. "Can once the whole film industry come together and take a stand, and refuse to be a pony that all ... ride on?? "At the same time Shame on you Karni Sena, you make me feel ashamed to be a Rajput.. bloody spineless cowards...," he said.

Veteran producer-director Ram Gopal Varma expressed angst against the government for not ensuring safety of artists. "@narendramodi I don't know when ur achchey din will come, but Bhansali incident makes me feel India's days going back to heights of burey din. Bhansali is an artiste and if any country cannot protect its artistes from street hooligans it doesn't deserve to be called a country," he tweeted.

President of the Film and Television Producers Guild of India Mukesh Bhatt said, "The most unfortunate thing is that we filmmakers and creative artists live in a house of glass. We are always scared that anyone can come and hit a stone and nothing will be done about it. There is nothing done for our protection."

"I don't know what's the solution for this. Who do we arrest when it was a group? I feel enraged on just hearing about it. The whole film fraternity is with him (Bhansali)," Bhatt told reporters in Mumbai at the launch of his his new web series, Maya.

Several other celebrities have rallied their support also took to Twitter to condemn the incident. The period drama, scheduled to release this November, stars Deepika Padukone in the lead role of Rajput queen Padmavati and features Shahid Kapoor as Raja Ratan Singh. Ranveer Singh is essaying the role of Alauddin Khilji, the medieval-era Delhi sultan, who falls in love with Padmavati.

PTI
BJP manifesto cut-paste job: Samajwadi Party

India

oi-IANS

By Ians English

Lucknow, Jan 28: The Samajwadi Party on Saturday claimed that the BJP manifesto -- Lok Kalyan Sankalp Patra -- for the Uttar Pradesh polls has taken a leaf out of its poll document. The party highlighted the free laptop scheme mentioned in both the manifestoes as one of the "cut and paste" jobs.

The Samajwadi Party distributed free laptops to meritorious students in its present tenure and has promised to continue the scheme, which was abandoned after it suffered a humiliating defeat in 2014 Lok Sabha polls. The BJP has also promised to provide laptops free of cost with an added benefit of 1 GB free internet for a year.

When asked about the similarities in their manifestoes, Amit Shah said the BJP's scheme was better as it promised laptops to all without the consideration of caste or religion, something, he claimed, was order of the day in the Samajwadi Party regime.

The BJP and the SP manifestoes also promised free schooling for girls, filling of vacancies in the state police, setting dairy plants etc.

The BJP, however, has said that there manifesto was not only different but also was above caste and other petty considerations, which it alleged was not being done under Akhilesh Yadav's watch.

IANS
CAG seeks report on Manish Sisodia's foreign jaunts

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

New Delhi, Jan 28: The Comptroller and Auditor General's office has sought details on the foreign trips made by ministers and officials who are part of the Delhi government. The CAG's office has sought details on the purpose of the visit and also how fruitful they were in terms of development and governance.

A huge controversy had broken out when the first dengue death was reported in Delhi last year. At the time of the crisis, Delhi's deputy Chief Minister, Manish Sisodia was in Finland. He was in Finland between September 11 to 16, 2016.

CAG is looking into 10 foreign trips made by AAP ministers of which 6 were made by Sisodia. Sisodia is said to have incurred an expenditure of Rs 30.73 lakh for three trips abroad. Informed sources say that Sisodia had travelled to Athens, Finland and Sao Paulo.

He is said to have travelled to Sao Paulo from August 11 to 15, 2015 to attend a one-day conference. He is said to have spent two days at Rio de Janeiro before the conference. He had taken a two-day break after the conference to visit the Igiazu falls and Argentina.

Further the trips made by health minister of Delhi Satyendra Jain too are under the scanner. He had also accompanied Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to Rome for two days to attend the sainthood ceremony of Mother Teresa between September 3 to 15, 2016 at the cost of Rs. 13.5 lakh.

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Story first published: Saturday, January 28, 2017, 8:30 [IST]
Conspiracy to recruit Indians into IS hatched in Kerala: NIA

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

The conspiracy to contribute Indian recruits for the Islamic State in Afghanistan was hatched in Kasargod, Kerala, a National Investigation Agency report says. The NIA, which has accordingly filed a chargesheet, says that a plan had been hatched to further the activities of the IS by one Abdul Rasheed, a resident of Kasargod.

As many as 21 Keralites have gone missing since the past couple of months. Investigations suggest that they are in Afghanistan and are part of an IS camp. The IS has ambitious plans in Afghanistan and has been recruiting several Indians in the past few months.

The chargesheet states that Rasheed was the main conspirator behind the offence of motivating several youths, hailing from Kasaragod district to exit India along with their families, and join the Islamic State. He had conducted 'classes' at Kasaragod and other places in support of the terrorist organisation and its ideology of violent jihad.

He motivated another set of 14 co-conspirators, including another arrested accused Yasmeen Mohammed Zahid, to join the proscribed organization and plan for Hijrah to the Caliphate announced by the IS. The investigation has revealed that the conspiracy had been in operation since July, 2015. Zahid was intercepted at the New Delhi's International Airport on July 30, 2016, while she was trying to exit India for Kabul, Afghanistan. The NIA states that she was trying to join Rashid in Afghanistan.

Investigations have established that Abdul Rasheed had raised funds for the terrorist organisation and transferred the same to Yasmeen, who utilised it for her activities.

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Story first published: Saturday, January 28, 2017, 11:41 [IST]
Dialogue and tolerance are ways to fight Islamic radicalism

India

oi-IANS

By Ians English

Kolkata, Jan 28: Saying that terrorism has now become increasingly malignant, Bangladeshi Novelist Shazia Omar has said creating more space for dialogue and tolerance is the way to fight Islamic radicalism.

"In this age of technology the spread of terrorism is becoming much more malignant," Omar said on Friday during an interactive session at the Kolkata Literary Meet here. Speaking on the subject "triple challenges of Islamophobia, stereotypes and radicalisation", the author of the 2016 novel 'Black Diamond' stressed the need for knowledge, education and interaction to take on Islamic radicalism.

"The best way to fight it (Islamic radicalisation) is to create space for people to have dialogue, have tolerance to live and let live and through knowledge, education and more interaction, maybe we can break away from the increasingly homogeneous interpretation of what Islam should be and make space for more expression," Omar said. The product of the London School of Economics said women should become leaders and break the historical stereotypes of being dominated.

"Throughout history we have seen this imbalance where women have not been in positions of power. Women should be encouraged to become leaders. If the whole world is led by women, I wonder if we would still have incidents like a war or building walls," she said amid much cheer from the audience. Omar described how with her three run-ins with terrorism in three continents, she felt the scourge was coming closer, and said the spread of the "radical ideology and the way some people are taking it into their heart is very frightening".

"Little pockets of terrorism are springing up everywhere," she lamented. The novelist said she was in New York during the 2001 World Trade Center attack and then she considered the terrorist threat to be a "distant enemy".

But her idea of terrorism changed during the 2005 London tube station bombings as "the bombers were just like a guy with a backpack sitting next to you". Her third brush with terrorism during the attack at the Holey Artisan Bakery in Dhaka on July 1 last year was "most horrifying".

Omar said the Spanish cafe belonged to her cousin. The massacre left 29 persons, including five attackers, dead. "It was done by the boys who went to the same school my cousins went to. It seemed the distant enemy has increasingly come closer and closer," she said.

IANS

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Story first published: Saturday, January 28, 2017, 12:04 [IST]
Haryana: Jats threaten quota agitation again; Section 144 imposed in Rohtak

India

oi-PTI

Chandigarh, Jan 28: The district administration has imposed the Code of Criminal Procedure Section 144 in parts of Rohtak district in Haryana, as a precautionary measure in view of the call given by a section of Jats for a fresh round of quota agitation from January 29.

The assembly of five or more people in about 500 metres from national and state highways, along with railway stations in Rohtak has been banned, an official said. The Haryana government has sought 55 companies of paramilitary forces from the Centre besides deployment of 7,000 Home Guards in the state which saw 30 deaths and widespread vandalism during a similar stir last year.

Rohtak and some of its neighbouring districts, including Sonipat and Jhajjar, had been worst-hit by the violence. The agitation had also affected Delhi as the protesters cut water supply to the national capital. The call for fresh stir has been given by some Jat outfits, especially those owing allegiance to the All India Jat Aarakshan Sangharsh Samiti, headed by Yashpal Malik.

The Jat community outfits, while accusing the Manohar Lal Khattar government of not fulfilling their demands for reservation, have threatened to launch the next round of agitation from January 29.

"Although the leaders of various agitating organisations have promised to hold dharnas in a peaceful manner, still the administration is fully geared up to maintain law and order," Haryana's Additional Chief Secretary (Home), Ram Niwas said.

All the Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police have been directed to ensure that highways and railway tracks are not obstructed and no damage is caused to property, officials said. Meanwhile, a Mahapanchayat of some Khaps (caste councils) was held at Rohtak on Friday, in which they reiterated their call to hold the peaceful agitation from January 29.

During the Mahapanchayat, Khap leaders maintained that the release of arrested Jat youths from jails, withdrawal of cases registered during last years agitation and grant of government jobs to the kin of youths killed during last years stir were their immediate demands.

Om Prakash Nandal, new chief of Nandal Khap, who was the convener of the Mahapanchayat meeting held at Rohtak, assured that the stir will be peaceful. "Since the reservation matter is in the high court, we will wait for the final outcome," he said.

Another prominent Khap leader Surinder Singh, told reporters in Kurukshetra that the Jat leadership knows that the issue of Jat reservation was a legal battle and not a political one.

"However, some of the Jat leaders who belong to other states are using coercive methods of threatening to re-launch agitation across the state for vested interests," he said.

PTI
NEW ORLEANS, Jan. 27, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") and KSF partner, the former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., reminds investors that they have until March 24, 2017 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Banc of California, Inc. (NYSE:BANC), if they purchased the Companys securities between August 7, 2015 and January 23, 2017, inclusive (the Class Period). The action is pending in United States District Court for the Central District of California.



What You May Do

If you purchased securities of Banc of California and would like to discuss your legal rights and how this case might affect you and your right to recover for your economic loss, you may, without obligation or cost to you, call toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or email KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn (lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com). If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in this class action, you must petition the Court by March 24, 2017.

About the Lawsuit

Banc of California and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.

On October 18, 2016, SeekingAlpha published an article alleging that the Companys senior officers and board members have ties to Jason Galanis, who purportedly has a long history of secretly gaining control of banks and public companies via front men, looting assets, and leaving unsuspecting investors and taxpayers with hundreds of millions in losses.

Then, on January 23, 2017, the Company disclosed the resignation of its CEO and the opening of an SEC investigation into the Company.

On this news, the price of the Companys shares plummeted.

About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC

KSF, whose partners include the Former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is a law firm focused on securities, antitrust and consumer class actions, along with merger & acquisition and breach of fiduciary litigation against publicly traded companies on behalf of shareholders. The firm has offices in New York, California and Louisiana.

To learn more about KSF, you may visit www.ksfcounsel.com.
One boy looted the state, the other the country: Amit Shah in UP

India

oi-Oneindia

By Oneindia Staff Writer

"As far do ladke (two boys) are concerned, they will loot the state, BJP's National President, Amit Shah said on Saturday while releasing the party's manifesto for the 2017 Uttar Pradesh assembly elections in Lucknow . He was making a reference to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav and Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi who have decided to fight the UP elections jointly.

"One has looted the state, and the other the country. Together they will get together and loot the state," Shah said. He said that the BJP would win the elections and construction on the Ram Mandir will be taken up as per the law.

He also said that Akhilesh will have a lot to answer for the problems faced by the state. "The ruling party goondas grabbed land. The demography of UP is changing," Shah added.

He accused the SP led UP government of stalling the welfare schemes proposed by the Narendra Modi government.

The Central government has given Rs 1 Lakh crore extra funds to UP as compared with the United Progressive Alliance, where has it gone? Akhilesh needs to reply, Shah said.

Shah sought for one chance to bring UP out of the existing state that it is. He said that the only answer to the state's development he added that the SP and the BSP had clearly failed the state for 15 years.

OneIndia News

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Story first published: Saturday, January 28, 2017, 17:03 [IST]
Punjab polls 2017: Why every party wants Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh's support

India

oi-Anusha

As parties gear up for assembly polls in Punjab, each party would like to keep one man very close to them. With a massive 5 crore follower base, Chief of Dera Sacha Sauda, Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh is a sought after man in Punjab during the poll season. With well over 40 lakh voters as his followers in Punjab, political parties are making a beeline to keep themselves in the good books of the cult leader.

Leaders from various parties have been visiting Singh in a bid to win over his followers. Singh's Dera has its own political wing that recommends its followers with candidates and parties to vote for in the polls. While Singh has been asking his followers to vote for 'good and clean' candidates, the political wing of his cult has already shortlisted the candidates that they will endorse. It is this list that every political party and its candidate want to be a part of. Because of his following, he has been described as being politically influential in the Malwa region of Punjab. In the 2014 Haryana polls, his organisation supported the Bharatiya Janata Party. In February 2015, he openly supported BJP in Delhi elections and in the Bihar assembly election in 2015. This time around, however, there seems to some changes in the way Dera is looking at the parties and Congress may have just won its favour.

Leaders from Congress, People's party of Punjab and Shiromani Akali Dal alike have visited the headquarters at Sirsa. The minister of state for external affairs, Preneet Kaur as well as Punjab Congress chief Captain Amarinder Singh visited the sect headquarters earlier in January.

OneIndia News

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Story first published: Saturday, January 28, 2017, 10:28 [IST]
Congress will bring back old pension scheme in Gujarat, if voted to power: Rahul Gandhi

Rahul reschedules Punjab campaign to attend 'pressing' work in UP

India

oi-PTI

Chandigarh, Jan 28: Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi's programme for Sunday has been rescheduled to February 2, the last day for electioneering in Punjab.

"The change in programme has been necessitated by some pressing engagements in poll-bound Uttar Pradesh," a party release said. Rahul will now address his joint rally with Punjab Congress President and party's chief ministerial candidate Amarinder Singh in Lambi, as well as Gidderbaha, on February 2, instead of January 29.

Amarinder is taking on Akali Dal stalwart and Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal in his home turf of Lambi in what he has termed the "grandfather of all battles". Rahul is scheduled to address a public rally in Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Badal's constituency of Jalalabad on Saturday.

He will also address public meetings in Dhuri and Phillaur. However, his scheduled meeting on Saturday evening with Ludhiana traders and businessman has been cancelled due to the change in his programme.

PTI
Rescue rangers: Kashmiri men held in AP released after J&K police intervenes

India

oi-Anusha

The Jammu and Kashmir police came to the rescue of five men from the state who were arrested by Vijayawada police for suspicious activities. The Andhra Pradesh police had arrested a group of five men hailing from J&K's Shopian region after they were spotted clicking pictures of Vijayawada Airport. During questioning the men were unable to communicate their intent and the police arrested them.

The families of those arrested contacted the station house officer in Shopian. The J&K police then took the initiative of contacting authorities in Vijaywada and ensured the immediate release of the arrested after confirming their antecedents. It was learnt that the five men had come to Vijayawada to admit their wards and relatives to madrasas.

The Shopian police have set up redressal mechanisms to help youth living outside the state in the case of emergencies. A helpline and a Facebook page set up by the police helped the affected family members get in touch with them. For this group of five from Kashmir that mechanism came as a life-saver.

OneIndia News

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Story first published: Saturday, January 28, 2017, 14:45 [IST]
BJP wants Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, says Shah; asks other parties must make stand clear on the issue

UP assembly polls 2017: Will Yogi Adityanath be a new headache for BJP?

India

oi-Oneindia

By Oneindia Staff Writer

Lucknow, Jan 28: Bharatiya Janata Party has been left red faced by Hindu Yuva Vahini an outfit that was founded by one of its star campaigners for Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath. HYV released its first list of six candidates from Kushinagar and Maharajganj districts, which come under Adityanath's sway. HYV is to contest from 64 seats in eastern UP.

The reasons listed by HYV for fielding independent candidates against BJP are:

BJP "insulted" its founder, who is head priest of the Gorakhnath temple and five-time Lok Sabha MP. Adityanath was not declared as the chief ministerial face of BJP. BJP also did not include him in election management committee. Adityanath had given a list of 10 candidates of which BJP gave ticket to only two. Adityanath has not been given a ministry in NDA government. He was also ignored during BJP's Parivartan Yatra last year. His photograph was not on posters and banners of the yatra. BJP gave preference instead to Rajnath Singh, Keshav Prasad Maurya, Uma Bharti and Kalraj Mishra.

It is worth noting that HYV has not taken Adityanath's consent before it decided to field candidates said Sunil Singh, the outfit's state president. He went on to add that BJP has done some black magic on Adityanathji. That is the reason he said he has asked all units and workers to vote against BJP and campaign in favour of any non-BJP candidates who follows HYV's ideology.

Adityanath, meanwhile has remained silent on why HYV was fielding candidates on its own. HYV's list has candidates for Khadda, Kushinagar and Padrauna seats in Kushinagar district and Paniyara, Pharenda and Siswa in Maharajganj.

How has BJP treated Adityanath:

Adityanath is the only BJP candidate from UP who had campaigned for candidates of other NDA parties in 2014 Lok Sabha elections. Party had provided him with a helicopter to campaign. He had also led BJP's campaign in by-elections to 12 assembly seats.

BJP on its part is asking voters to ignore personal ambitions and has constantly maintained that HYV's candidates will have no bearing on prospects of BJP candidates. Party also maintained that people have faith on its leaders.

Chandra Mohan, BJP's UP spokesperson has said that. "BJP appeals to all those who want UP to be from SP and BSP, to ignore personal ambitions and support PM Narendra Modi.

OneIndia News

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Story first published: Saturday, January 28, 2017, 15:27 [IST]
Attacks on Hindus in UK: Are Muslims frustrated over spread and reach of Hinduism?

Hijab ban: With SC delivering a split verdict, here is what happens next

UP elections: How RLD plans to counter the Love Jihad propaganda

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

Lucknow, Jan 28: The Uttar Pradesh Assembly election 2017 is only getting interesting with each passing day. The Rashtriya Lok Dal has devised a strategy to get votes from both Muslims and Jats. The party has fielded two candidates who have inter-religious and inter-caste marriages.

The party has fielded Anju Muskan a Dalit from the Hapur assembly constituency. She is married to a local RLD leader Farman Ali. Kusum Devi a Dalit from Hastinapur who is married to a Gujjar too has been fielded as a candidate.

RLD feels that this strategy would help it stitch the broken fabric. The Muzzafarnagar riots in UP has broken several families. The RLD says that the decision to field such candidates would send across a message to several groups who have been propagating about 'love jihad."

RLD feels that Muskan would get the Dalit votes from Hapur which amounts to around 45,000. Considering she is married to Ali, she could bag a majority of Muslim votes which accounts to 1 lakh.

In the case of Kusum, the RLD is banking on both the Dalit and Gujjar votes. In the Hastinapur constituency there are 70,000 Gujjars and 45,000 Dalits. Kusum had banked on this same combination to win the Zilla Panchayat election in 2016.

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Story first published: Saturday, January 28, 2017, 10:28 [IST]
UP ko yeh saath pasand hai: The new Congress-SP slogan

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

Lucknow, Jan 28: Akhilesh Yadav and Rahul Gandhi are scheduled to address 14 joint rallies for Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections 2017. The strategists of both parties decided that there will be two joint rallies addressed before each phase.

The two parties also decided to come up with a slogan for the joint rallies. The slogan that would be used goes like this, "UP ko yeh saath pasand hai (UP likes this combination).

It may be recalled that the two parties have also decided to use another slogan Apne Ladke vs Bahari Modi. This slogan was aimed at telling the people that the BJP has not yet declared a local face for the UP elections.

Akhilesh and Rahul will also address a joint press conference at Lucknow on January 29. This would be followed by road show by Rahul Gandhi. Party workers of both the Congress and SP are excited about this combination. They feel that a strong message would be sent out as a result of this combination.

Meanwhile both parties continue to iron out differences regarding the candidates at Amethi and Rae Bareli which are both traditional strongholds of the Gandhi family.

There are five assembly seats in both these Parliamentary constituencies. Out of the ten seats, seven are with the SP. Priyanka Gandhi had recently spoken with Akhilesh requesting him to let the Congress contest on all ten seats. The Congress says that it is not contesting any of the seats in the Yadav family bastions at Azamgarh, Manipuri and Etawah. By this logic the SP too should return the favour, the Congress feels.

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Story first published: Saturday, January 28, 2017, 9:54 [IST]
Veteran congressman S M Krishna retires from active politics

India

oi-Anusha

Bengaluru, Jan 28: Former Chief Minister of Karnataka and union minister in the UPA regime S M Krishna has retired from active politics, say sources.

The congressman is said to have sent a letter to All India Congress Committee Chief Sonia Gandhi appraising her of his decision to quit active politics. In a letter to Gandhi, S M Krishna is said to have asked for him to be relieved from the party's primary membership.

S M Krishna had been disappointed over not being acknowledged by the Karnataka Congress in recent years. The shrewd politician who has also held office of external affairs minister is likely to announce his decision in a press conference on Sunday.

The 84-year-old veteran became an MP for the first time in 1968 from Mandya. He has served as a minister under Indira Gandhi as well as Rajiv Gandhi. In 1999 he led the Congress to victory in Karnataka and became the chief minister till 2004. Krishna has also discharged duty as governor of Maharashtra.

Krishna was made the minister for external affairs in Dr Manmohan Singh Cabinet and resigned from the post in 2012. The move was looked at as his return to state politics but the same never took off. People close to the leader claim that Krishna was dissapointed with the way he was treated in Karnataka Congress. His suggestions, involvement and expertise were not sought, sources added. He is credited with bringing in power reforms and giving digitalisation in governance when he was chief minister of Karnataka.

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Donald Trump orders 'great rebuilding' of American Army

International

oi-IANS

By Ians English

Washington, Jan 28: President Donald Trump signed an order today to begin what he called a "great rebuilding" of the US armed services, promising new aircraft, naval ships and more resources for the military.

"Our military strength will be questioned by no one, but neither will our dedication to peace. We do want peace," Trump said in a ceremony at the Pentagon.

Trump predicted that Congress, which sets the expenditures for the government, will "be very happy to see" the White House's spending request for the military.

He signed the order after a ceremonial swearing-in of new Defense Secretary James Mattis, a retired Marine general.

"Secretary Mattis has devoted his life to serving his country. He is a man of honor, a man of devotion, and a man of total action. He likes action," Trump said.

PTI

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Story first published: Saturday, January 28, 2017, 11:08 [IST]
Donald Trump: US will give priority to persecuted Christian refugees

International

oi-IANS

By Ians English

Washington, Jan 28: US President Donald Trump said persecuted Christians will be given priority over other refugees seeking to enter the US, saying they have been "horribly treated".

Speaking with the Christian Broadcasting Network on Friday, Trump said that it had been "impossible, or at least very tough" for Syrian Christians to enter the US, CNN reported.

"If you were a Muslim you could come in, but if you were a Christian, it was almost impossible and the reason that was so unfair -- everybody was persecuted, in all fairness -- but they were chopping off the heads of everybody but more so the Christians. And I thought it was very, very unfair. So we are going to help them."

Trump did not name a reason or offer any evidence about why the agencies that vet refugees, including the Department of Homeland Security and the State Department, would have prioritized Muslim refugees over Christians.

According to a report by the non-partisan Pew Research Center, however, 99 per cent of the nearly 12,600 Syrians granted refugee status last year were Muslims. Less than 1 per cent were Christian. Syria's population is 87 per cent Muslim and 10 per cent Christian, according to the CIA World Fact Book.

Also on Friday, Trump signed an executive order freezing refugee applications from seven Muslim-majority countries in the Middle East and Africa, including Syria. It's unclear how his pledge to help persecuted Christians from those countries will accord with that plan. The US admitted a record number of 38,901 Muslim refugees in 2016, according to a study conducted by Pew. But nearly the same number of Christians, 37,521 were also admitted.

Many religious groups have denounced Trump's proposed ban on refugees from Muslim-majority countries. At the same time, many Christian groups that resettle refugees in the US decry the persecution of their brethren overseas but said the country should not give favour to fellow Christians or bar Muslims.

"We would resist that strongly," Scott Arbeiter, president of World Relief, the humanitarian arm of the National Association of Evangelicals and one of nine agencies that partner with the federal government to resettle refugees. "Some of the most vulnerable people in the world right now are Muslims. If we say no Muslim should be let in, we are denying the humanity and dignity of people made in the image of God."

IANS
Donald Trump's executive order prompts Google to recall travelling staff

International

oi-IANS

By Ians English

Washington, Jan 28: Google has recalled its travelling staff members back to the US after an executive order from President Donald Trump restricting entry for nationals of seven Muslim-majority countries, the media reported.

Syrian refugees are banned from entry until further notice. Visas for nationals of six countries, including Iran and Iraq, will not be issued for the next three months. Google said it is concerned about the order and any measures which could block great talent from the US, reported the BBC on Saturday.

Trump's order means that thousands of citizens from Iran, Iraq, Syria, Yemen, Sudan, Somalia and Libya may not be allowed to board flights bound for the US - even if they hold "green card" (permanent residents' permit).

Trump said the measure would "keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the US". But rights groups said there is no link between Syrian refugees in the US and terrorism, according to the report.

According to the BBC, there were already reports of travellers from the countries targeted being turned away as they tried to board flights to the US. Some Republicans welcomed Trump's announcement, including the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Paul Ryan, who said it was "time to re-evaluate and strengthen the visa vetting process".

IANS
Europe must have 'firm' response to Trump: Hollande

International

oi-PTI

Lisbon, Jan 28: French President Francois Hollande on Saturday urged Europe to be "firm" in its response to new US President Donald Trump, who has called Britain's exit from the bloc a "wonderful thing".

"When there are statements from the US president about Europe and when he talks about Brexit being the model for other countries, I think we should respond," he told reporters in Lisbon, adding Europe should engage in a "firm dialogue" with Washington.

Hollande is scheduled to speak to Trump later on Saturday. British Prime Minister Theresa May met US President Donald Trump on Friday and extended her greetings.

IANS
Google CEO Sundar Pichai criticises Trump's immigration order

International

oi-IANS

By Ians English

San Francisco, Jan 28: Google's India-born Chief Executive Sundar Pichai on Saturday critcised US President Donald Trump's executive order suspending the entry of people from Muslim-majority countries to the United States and stressed its negative influence on US attractiveness for foreign talent.

Pichai suggested that the ban could affect at least 187 Google employees as the Internet search giant ordered its travelling staff to return to the United States. "We're upset about the impact of this order and any proposals that could impose restrictions on Googlers and their families, or that could create barriers to bringing great talent to the US," The Wall Street Journal quoted Pichai as saying in an e-mail to staff. "It's painful to see the personal cost of this executive order on our colleagues," he added.

On Friday, Trump signed an executive order blocking from entering the United States all Syrian refugees until the adequate changes are made to the Refugee Admission Program (USRAP) and suspending the entry for all nationals of Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen for 90 days.

"Our first order of business is to help Googlers who are affected," he assured his staff, urging them to reach out to Google's global security team if they were abroad and needed help.

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg also expressed his concern over the order. "We need to keep this country safe, but we should do that by focusing on people who actually pose a threat," he wrote on his Facebook page on Friday.

Immigrants make up much of the workforce in Silicon Valley, including many executive roles, and the tech industry has long advocated for more open immigration laws in the US, saying they need more skilled foreigners to fill technical jobs, the WSJ added.

Earlier on Saturday, thousands of academics, including 11 Nobel Laureates, signed a petition against the immigration ban calling it discriminatory and detrimental to the country's national interests. Trump's order means that thousands of citizens from seven Muslim-majority countries may not be allowed to board flights bound for the US -- even if they hold "green card" (permanent residents' permit).

Trump said the measure would "keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the US". But rights groups said there is no link between Syrian refugees in the US and terrorism.

According to the BBC, there were already reports of travellers from the countries targeted being turned away as they tried to board flights to the US.

Some Republicans welcomed Trump's announcement, including the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Paul Ryan, who said it was "time to re-evaluate and strengthen the visa vetting process".

IANS
Malala Yousafzai 'heartbroken' over Trump's order on refugees

International

oi-PTI

London, Jan 28: A 'heartbroken' Pakistani Nobel Laureate Malala Yousafzai on Saturday urged US President Donald Trump not to turn his back on the world's "most defenceless", hours after he signed an order calling for "extreme vetting" of people entering America from seven Muslim-majority nations.

"I am heartbroken that President Trump is closing the door on children, mothers and fathers fleeing violence and war," the 19-year-old Pakistani education activist, who survived a near-fatal attack by the Taliban, said in a Facebook post. Her statement came after Trump ordered "extreme vetting" of people entering the US from certain Muslim-majority countries and banned the entry of Syrian refugees until further notice, as part of new measures to "keep radical Islamic terrorists" out of America. The countries impacted are Iran, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Libya, Yemen and Somalia, according to a White House official.

"I am heartbroken that America is turning its back on a proud history of welcoming refugees and immigrants - the people who helped build your country, ready to work hard in exchange for a fair chance at a new life. "I am heartbroken that Syrian refugee children, who have suffered through six years of war by no fault of their own, are singled-out for discrimination," she said.

"I am heartbroken for girls like my friend Zaynab, who fled wars in three countries  Somalia, Yemen and Egypt  before she was even 17. Two years ago she received a visa to come to the United States. She learned English, graduated high school and is now in college studying to be a human rights lawyer," she said.

Malala, the youngest ever recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize which she shared in 2014 with India's Kailash Satyarthi, a Child rights' activist, has documented her experiences growing up in Pakistan's Swat Valley under Taliban rule in the book 'I am Malala' co-written with Sunday Times journalist Christina Lamb.

She said Zaynab was separated from her little sister when she fled unrest in Egypt. Today her hope of being reunited with her precious sister dims. "In this time of uncertainty and unrest around the world, I ask President Trump not to turn his back on the world's most defenceless children and families," she added. Malala, her father Ziauddin Yousafzai and her mother Toor Pekai are now based in Birmingham where Malala attended Edgbaston High School for Girls. She has expressed her desire to become Prime Minister of Pakistan in many interviews.

PTI
Malala Yousafzai heartbroken by Trumps refugees policy

International

oi-IANS

By Ians English

Islamabad, Jan 28: Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai on Saturday said she was "heartbroken" by President Donald Trump's executive order calling for new vetting of refugees entering the US. "I am heartbroken that Trump is closing the door on children, mothers and fathers fleeing violence and war," the women's education rights activist said in a statement posted on Facebook.

"I am heartbroken that America is turning its back on a proud history of welcoming refugees and immigrants -- the people who helped build your country, ready to work hard in exchange for a fair chance at a new life," Yousafzai said. "I am heartbroken that Syrian refugee children, who have suffered through six years of war by no fault of their own, are singled out for discrimination," the statement continued.

Yousafzai cited an example of Zaynab, who fled wars in three countries -- Somalia, Yemen and Egypt -- before she was even 17, saying she was heartbroken for girls like her. The activist said "today Zaynab, who came to the US in 2014 and now in a college studying human rights, her hope of being reunited with her precious little sister separated when she fled unrest in Egypt, dims".

"In this time of uncertainty and unrest around the world, I ask President Trump not to turn his back on the world's most defenceless children and families." The White House did not provide immediate details about Trump's executive order, but reports said the US would stop issuing visas to people coming from several Muslim-majority countries, including Iran, Sudan, Syria, Libya, Somalia, Yemen and Iraq.

People from countries such as Afghanistan, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia will face "extreme vetting", the US President said. The order is also expected to indefinitely block refugees from war-torn Syria from entering the US and suspend all refugee admissions for 120 days while the administration determines which countries pose the least risk.

Yousafzai is an advocate for women's education who survived a terrorist attack when she was shot by the Taliban in 2012. In 2014, she became the youngest person to win the Nobel Peace Prize at the age of 17.

IANS

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Story first published: Saturday, January 28, 2017, 12:47 [IST]
Mali arrests two suspects in planned terror attack

International

oi-PTI

Bamako (Mali), Jan 28: Malian officials said two suspected jihadists have been arrested after they planned to stage a suicide attack in the capital Bamako during the France-Africa summit earlier this month. "In two separate operations in Bamako on Thursday, Malian special intelligence operatives arrested two jihadists who were preparing to commit a large scale attack in Bamako against foreign targets," a security officialsaid on Friday.

The attack was planned for the France-Africa summit on January 13 and 14, which gathered some 30 African states and France to discuss the fight against extremists, the struggle to improve governance and the migrant crisis. But stringent security measures forced the suspects to delay their plans, the official said. Another Malian security source confirmed the report. Both suspects are Malian nationals from the country's unrest-wracked north, which fell under the control of Tuareg-led rebels and jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda in 2012.

The Islamists sidelined the rebels to take sole control. Although they were largely ousted by a French-led military operation in January 2013, implementation of a peace accord struck in 2015 has been piecemeal with insurgents still active across large parts of the region. The suspects were arrested carrying "compromising materials," the official said, including a "GPS system, ammunition and explosive material."

"The first (suspect) was the logistics specialist who did the tracking," while the second was likely the would-be suicide bomber, the second security source said. He also said that both men belonged to the group of Algerian jihadist and Al-Qaeda ally Mokhtar Belmokhtar, which claimed responsibility for a January 18 suicide bombing that killed more than 70 people in the northern city of Gao.

The group, allied to Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), targeted militia groups committed to restoring peace in Mali. That attack, which struck a fresh blow at efforts to stabilise the troubled north, occurred five days after French President Francois Hollande visited the military base at Gao en route to the France-Africa summit. French special forces had arrested several people ahead of the summit suspected of planning attacks during the gathering, according to Malian and foreign officials.

PTI
Mark Zuckerberg criticises Trumps immigration policy

International

oi-IANS

By Ians English

New York, Jan 28: Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg took to his social network to criticise US President Donald Trump's anti-immigration policies and his plans to build a wall along the border with Mexico.

In his first week in the White House, Trump signed executive orders for the border wall, withholding federal funding from sanctuary cities and blocking refugees from nations like Iran, Iraq, Libya and Syria. "Like many of you, I'm concerned about the impact of the recent executive orders signed by President Trump. We need to keep this country safe, but we should do that by focusing on people who actually pose a threat," Zuckerberg said in a Facebook post on Friday.

Zuckerberg, who recently cleared that he was not running for the top post, criticised Trump's actions by saying the US is a "nation of immigrants". He said that his great-grandparents came to the US from Germany, Austria and Poland, while wife Priscilla Chan's parents were refugees from China and Vietnam. He urged Trump to keep the US' doors open to refugees.

"Had we turned away refugees a few decades ago, Priscilla's family wouldn't be here today," he said. However, Zuckerberg also appreciated Trump's announcement regarding finding a solution for 750,000 immigrants in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals programme under the DREAM Act.

IANS

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Story first published: Saturday, January 28, 2017, 12:34 [IST]
Refugees detained at US airports after Trump's immigration order

International

oi-IANS

By Ians English

Washington, Jan 28: US President Trumps executive order closing the nations borders to refugees was put into immediate effect as those who were in the air on the way to the country were stopped and detained at airports, a newspaper reported.

The detentions prompted legal challenges as lawyers representing two Iraqi refugees held at Kennedy Airport filed a writ of habeas corpus early on Saturday in New York seeking to have their clients released, the New York Times reported. At the same time, they filed a motion for class certification, in an effort to represent all refugees and immigrants who they said were being unlawfully detained at ports of entry, said the report.

Trump's order, which suspends entry of all refugees to the US for 120 days, created a legal limbo for individuals on the way to the United States and panic for families who were awaiting their arrival.

His order also stops the admission of refugees from Syria indefinitely, and it bars entry into the US for 90 days from seven predominantly Muslim countries linked to concerns about terrorism. Those countries are Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen.

According to the report, it was unclear how many refugees and immigrants were being held nationwide in the aftermath of the executive order.

The complaints were filed by a prominent group, including the American Civil Liberties Union, the International Refugee Assistance Project at the Urban Justice Centre, the National Immigration Law Centre, Yale Law School's Jerome N. Frank Legal Services Organisation and the firm Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton.

The lawyers, according to the New York Times, said that one of the Iraqis detained at Kennedy Airport, Hameed Khalid Darweesh, had worked on behalf of the US government in Iraq for 10 years.

The other, Haider Sameer Abdulkhaleq Alshawi, was coming to the US to join his wife, who had worked for a US contractor, and young son, the lawyers said. They said both men were detained at the airport Friday night after arriving on separate flights.

The attorneys said they were not allowed to meet their clients, and there were tense moments as they tried to reach them.

The executive order, which Trump said was part of an extreme vetting plan to keep out "radical Islamic terrorists," also established a religious test for refugees from Muslim nations: He ordered that Christians and others from minority religions be granted priority over Muslims.

The US admitted a record number of 38,901 Muslim refugees in 2016, according to a study conducted by non-partisan Pew Research Center based in Washington. But nearly the same number of Christians, 37,521 were also admitted, it said,

At the same time, many Christian groups that resettle refugees in the US decried the persecution of their brethren overseas, but said the country should not give favour to fellow Christians or bar Muslims, CNN reported.

"We would resist that strongly," said Scott Arbeiter, president of World Relief, the humanitarian arm of the National Association of Evangelicals and one of nine agencies that partner with the federal government to resettle refugees.

"Some of the most vulnerable people in the world right now are Muslims. If we say no Muslim should be let in, we are denying the humanity and dignity of people made in the image of God."

IANS
Theresa May wants to expand ties with Turkey before Brexit

International

oi-PTI

Ankara, Jan 28: Fresh from talks with US President Donald Trump, British Prime Minister Theresa May will meet Turkish leaders in Ankara today, hoping to expand ties and seal a new trading relationship before Britain leaves the EU.

On a one-day visit to the Turkish capital, her first since becoming premier, May will hold talks with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Prime Minister Binali Yildirim. While some EU states have been wary of sending top officials to Turkey following the July 15 failed coup and ensuing crackdown, May will follow several senior British ministers who have visited Ankara in recent weeks. And symbolically, her visit to Turkey is the last leg of a trip which took her to the White House as the first foreign leader to be hosted by Trump.

Turkey, which has sought to join the European Union since the 1960s, has long seen Britain as one of the most enthusiastic supporters of its troubled bid. But following Britain's June vote to leave the bloc, both sides are now looking to bring a new dynamic to relations, with London seeking to firm up post-Brexit trade deals with non-EU states.

May's spokeswoman said increased security cooperation, especially on aviation, and a new trade relationship post- Brexit would top the agenda at the talks. Following the failed coup, Turkey's relations with the EU have become strained, with Brussels sharply criticising the extent of the ensuing crackdown, and Ankara deploring Europe's failure to show solidarity. The spokeswoman emphasised that there were no issues May would steer away from, including human rights and freedom of the press.

"The Prime Minister's approach is quite clear - she thinks it's important, and in the UK's national interest - to engage with Turkey on a range of issues - from defence and security cooperation to capitalising on trade opportunities," she said. She added: "I don't think there are any issues that the prime minister is afraid to bring up." Ahead of May's visit, Britain's Trade and Investment Minister Mark Price held a series of meetings with Turkish ministers in Ankara.

Bilateral trade between the two countries amounted to more than USD 16 billion in 2015, Turkish figures show, with Britain the second most important country for exports and 11th in terms of imports. Three months after the Brexit vote, Foreign Minister Boris Johnson made a colourful visit to Turkey during which he said Britain was seeking a "jumbo free trade deal" with Ankara.

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Story first published: Saturday, January 28, 2017, 11:47 [IST]
US airports on frontline as Trump immigration ban causes chaos

International

oi-IANS

By Ians English

Washington, Jan 29: US President Donald Trump's executive order to close Americas borders to refugees and immigrants from some Muslim-majority countries caused chaos on Saturday. Those who had flown to the US were held at airports and elsewhere others were barred from boarding planes, The Guardian reported.

As confusion reigned, a spokeswoman for the Department of Homeland Security said people holding so-called green cards, making them legal permanent US residents, were included in the ban. "It will bar green card holders," wrote Gillian Christensen, acting DHS spokeswoman, in an email.

The order, signed on Friday in Washington, temporarily banned refugees from around the world from entering the US, blocked Syrian refugees indefinitely and placed severe restrictions on immigration from seven predominantly Muslim countries -- Iraq, Syria, Iran, Yemen, Sudan, Libya and Somalia.

Members of religious minorities from those countries, however, will be granted immigration priority. Political reaction to the order ranged across the partisan divide.

On Friday, Democratic Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer said: "Tears are running down the cheeks of the Statue of Liberty tonight as a grand tradition of America, welcoming immigrants, that has existed since America was founded, has been stomped upon."

Republican House speaker Paul Ryan countered: "Our number one responsibility is to protect the homeland. I support the refugee resettlement program, but... President Trump is right to make sure we are doing everything possible to know exactly who is entering our country."

As Trump spoke by phone to the leaders of Japan, France, Germany and Russia on Saturday, international reaction to the ban was largely negative. British Prime Minister Theresa May, however, ducked a series of questions at a press conference with the Turkish prime minister, 24 hours after meeting Trump in Washington. Asked several times what she thought of Trump's order, she finally replied: "The US is responsible for its policy on refugees."

The Iranian foreign ministry said in a statement the executive order was an "open affront against the Muslim world and the Iranian nation". Iran will "take appropriate consular, legal and political measures", it said.

In New York City, two Iraqi refugees who arrived on separate flights were detained at John F Kennedy airport. One, Hameed Khalid Darweesh, had worked in Iraq for the US government for 10 years. The other, Haider Sameer Abdulkhaleq Alshawi, was coming to the US to join his wife who had worked for a US contractor, according to a report in the New York Times.

An immigration organisation in New York City said it was dispatching an expert to the airport to try to establish how many people were being held in limbo as border agents began preventing Muslims in particular from entering the country.

Thanu Yakupitiyage, a spokeswoman for the New York Immigration Coalition (NYIC), told the Guardian: "This is absolutely dehumanising, I am livid, it's outrageous. We are sending someone to JFK airport to speak to customs and border control about this, people are in a state of shock."

IANS
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by  Graham Pierrepoint



TV has changed dramatically over the past few years, with the advent of streaming, in demand services and a move to big budget drama and Hollywood casts  but tastes, it appears, seem to fluctuate. Last year, Game of Thrones  the high-budget fantasy thriller packed with dragons, steamy scenes and underhanded political intrigue  aired arguably one of its most exciting seasons yet, with storylines overtaking the canon of author George R R Martins books. It, too, was handed a plethora of awards for various scenes and technical effects, with the penultimate episode Battle of The Bastards being particularly notable for its colossal battle scene. However, while the episodes were lapped up by millions worldwide, it seems that the UK public have opted to crown an entirely different type of show to sit on their iron throne for drama.

The National Television Awards take place in the UK every year, and are voted on by the public  each January, TV stars, shows and production teams are honored for their achievements in the previous year, making the event a true celebration of the best of TV every time it comes around. Its not just British TV which is celebrated  Netflix series such as Orange is The New Black and Making a Murderer were represented for awards this year, as was The Big Bang Theory in the comedy category  and, the big one, of course, was the Best Drama award. This years shortlist contained the aforementioned Game of Thrones, the Golden Globe lauded The Night Manager, gritty Yorkshire crime serial Happy Valley and returning ITV favorite Cold Feet  but the winner was perhaps somewhat unexpected.

The honor was in fact bestowed upon Casualty, a hospital serial which has been running on a weekly basis since 1986  having celebrated its 30th birthday last year. The show has been a staple of BBC listings on Saturday nights for decades, and it is perhaps remarkable that it has finally been recognized as one of the broadcasters biggest hitters, and perhaps most successful series. Many of the shows cast and crew were stunned to have received the accolade  given that it had beaten a Golden Globe winner and the colossally popular Game of Thrones makes Casualtys achievement all the more stunning.

Will the hospital drama continue for another three decades? If British TV longevity is anything to go by, it very much might  so heres to another 30 years on the ward!
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Who's the source of terrorism?

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Interview with Kayhan News

1/ What are the most serious internal and external threats facing Europe today, including threats from Russia?



The surprise victory of the Brexit campaign in Britain, despite the overwhelming propaganda against it, finally forced the European status quo to face reality. The European Union only makes sense if there is a sense of belonging, of compassion. Nationalism was the traditional way to bind people together, despite inequality and injustice. The EU lacks that glue. The crisis of Greece showed this starkly. The common currency was revealed as a myth, divorced from the reality of citizens.



The growing domestic polarization from failed neoliberalism extends across borders, and has become the common characteristic of Greeks and Irish, French and Italians. Only Germany is strong, destroyed in WWII and rebuilt as an industrial powerhouse. Its strong economy keeps it secure. But security now means security of life, and the EU does not promise this kind of security. It is neoliberalism in the first place that is the threat to security for citizens.



The flood of refugees into Europe is the external security issue created by the US-European policy to undermine Syria. Europe has no external enemies threatening its security. It created this refugee crisis through its blind following of the US goal of overthrowing the Syian regime. The threat of terrorism arising from the Syria tragedy will haunt Europe for decades. The foolish attempt to overthrow the secure, nonthreatening Syrian regime cannot be undone. Like the invasion of Iraq in 2003 and overthrow of Gaddafi in Libya in 2011, the attempt to push Syria into chaos was a product of imperial hubris. None of these schemes achieved their desired end of furthering US world power.







The other call by Trump is to make peace with Russia. This will undermine the continued Cold War mentality to cripple Russia and prevent Eurasian integration. If this happens, talk of another arms race, of renewing nuclear weapons testing, makes no sense. Given the increase in global environmental disasters, there will be other things to occupy the US, and it will need cooperation rather than confrontation.



2/ How and to what extent do the return of European militias from Iraq and Syria to their lands and the wave of terrorist attacks on Europe challenge European security order?



This is unclear, as statistics about actual numbers of Europeans involved in the Syrian and Iraq militant insurgencies is not known. It is probably exaggerated as part of the attempt to lay blame for increased terrorism on Muslim discontents, rather than US-European policies and their blowback. Terrorism is nothing new. The current wave of terrorism emanates from US and Israeli sources, their aggression against the Muslim world. It started with the slow invasion of Palestine over the past 50 years, reached a climax in Afghanistan in the 1980s, and will continue as long as the Arab world suffers under the dual aggressors. A few malcontents may cause occasional sensational outbursts, but they are merely a symptom of the underlying problem. There will never be peace until a sense of dignity is restored in the Middle East and the US ends its imperial lust.



3/ What is the future of security ties between Europe and the US during Trump presidency?



Trump is still a black box. He has portrayed himself as a 'bull in a china shop', lashing out at the sad state of US democracy and the economy. His only clear message is to make peace with Russia, with his appointment of the more pro-Russian businessman Rex Tillerson as secretary of state. Hopefully, it will lead to a new, more rational US foreign policy, and should be favourable to all nations, though Israel's present chauvinistic political leadership will not be happy. There really is no need for US interference in European affairs. Europe is secure, as is the US. It is US-European meddling in the Middle East that is the source of insecurity. Trump's policy of self-reliance, of 'making America great' again, will rebound in Europe, as it finally shakes off its Cold War false unity.



4/ What are possible European strategies to deal with security threats?



Europe is moving toward more nationalistic politics. Europeans, like Trump, are eager for change. The only way to improve internal security (there is no external security threat to Europe) is to reverse course on Syria and Israel. The western policies undermining Syria and lack of hope for a settlement in Palestine are the main source of terrorist threats.

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From Foreign Policy In Focus

China may bully its neighbors, but turning foreign territorial disputes into a superpower conflict between nuclear-armed rivals would be a huge mistake.

In his Jan. 13 testimony before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, secretary of state nominee Rex Tillerson made an extraordinary comment concerning China's activities in the hotly disputed South China Sea.

The United States, he said, must "send a clear signal that, first, the island-building stops," adding that Beijing's "access to the those islands is not going to be allowed."

Trump's press secretary, Sean Spicer, repeated the threat on Jan. 24.

Sometimes it's hard to sift the real from the magical in the Trump administration, and bombast appears to be the default strategy of the day. But people should be clear about what would happen if the U.S. actually tries to blockade China from supplying its forces constructing airfields and radar facilities on the Spratly and Paracel islands.

It would be an act of war.

While Beijing's Foreign Ministry initially reacted cautiously to the comment, Chinese newspapers have been far less diplomatic. The nationalist Global Times warned of a "large-scale war" if the U.S. followed through on its threat, and the China Daily cautioned that a blockade could lead to a "devastating confrontation between China and the U.S."

Independent observers agree. "It is very difficult to imagine the means by which the United States could prevent China from accessing these artificial islands without provoking some kind of confrontation," says Rory Medcalf, head of Australia's National Security College. And such a confrontation, says Carlyle Thayer of the University of New South Wales, "could quickly develop into an armed conflict."

Last summer, China's commander of the People's Liberation Army Navy, Wu Shengli, told U.S. Admiral John Richardson that "we will never stop our construction on the Nansha Islands halfway." Nansha is China's name for the Spratlys. Two weeks later, Chang Wanquan, China's Defense Minister, said Beijing is preparing for a "people's war at sea."

The Roots of China's Anxiety

A certain amount of this is posturing by two powerful countries in competition for markets and influence, but Tillerson's statement didn't come out of the blue.

In fact, the U.S. is in the middle of a major military buildup -- the Obama administration's "Asia Pivot" in the Pacific. American bases in Okinawa, Japan, and Guam have been beefed up, and for the first time since World War II, U.S. Marines have been deployed in Australia. Last March, the U.S. sent B-2 nuclear-capable strategic stealth bombers to join them.

There is no question that China has been aggressive about claiming sovereignty over small islands and reefs in the South China Sea, even after the Permanent Court of Arbitration at The Hague rejected Beijing's claims. But if a military confrontation is to be avoided, it's important to try to understand what's behind China's behavior.

The current crisis has its roots in a tense standoff between Beijing and Taiwan in late 1996. China was angered that Washington had granted a visa to Taiwan's president, Lee Teng-hui, calling it a violation of the 1979 U.S. "one-China" policy that recognized Beijing and downgraded relations with Taiwan to "unofficial."

Beijing responded to the visa uproar by firing missiles near a small Taiwan-controlled island and moving some military forces up to the mainland coast facing the island. However, there was never any danger that China would actually attack Taiwan. Even if it wanted to, it didn't have the means to do so.

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Bulldozer knock over ancient ruins in name of 'maintenance'

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The Israeli Forces have been making their presence known in Sebastiya almost daily; sometimes just for show, and other times with bulldozers under the guise of 'maintence and cleaning'. But, when exactly did a bulldozer ever clean up a site? Instead, what they are doing is destroying these relics from history, knocking over pillars, moving rocks from one area to another, and adding a fence for 'protecting' the area. In the last months, they have come and destroyed homes and shops all around area c.

As you walk through the old ruins in Area C, you can see 360 degrees, and in that view are Palestinian villages, olive groves, and pockets of settlements surrounding them on all sides. A few months ago, the settlement Save Shamron burned down a field of olive trees that belonged to two different villages, Sebastiya and Dershab nearby. In 2013, there was a demonstration against sewage problems in the area due to this settlement. The locals with support from ISM and other international groups protested until they removed the sewage from the waters. (link )

Sebastiya is a beautiful small town northeast of Nablus up in the hills. It is a site of many ancient Roman ruins, including sites from Herod's dynasty, sites of Alexander the great, and a chapel and mosque of Nabi Yahya (John the Baptist) that remains today a pilgrimage site for Christians and Muslims. The land has traces back to the Canaanites and the Jews, and therefore is a place that the Israeli government would love to have control over. The town is divided by areas A, B, and C. Most of the villagers live in area b, and most of these important archeological sites happen to fall in area c.

The municipality receives threats that they will be returning, and fortunately the town is working well together to stand up against the militarization of their land. They are currently in a process in the courts to make the area a 'world heritage site' under UNESCO. This would protect the area from the Israeli government, as it would be under international control.

About one year ago, a group from the village decided to post a Palestinian flag on the hillside by the ruins. Immediately, this action was met with force by the Israeli occupation forces through teargas and arrest of seven young men between the ages of 18-22 years. Two of them remained in prison for almost a full year, and were just released recently. This continues to be a battle, and the village will continue to fight for the right to their land, and these ancient sites.
From Gush Shalom

King Kong, the giant primate with the heart of gold, who scaled huge buildings and downed airplanes with his little finger.

Wow. President Kong, the mightiest being on earth.

SOME OF us had hoped that Donald Trump would turn out to be quite a different person than his election persona. In an election campaign you say many kinds of inane things. To be forgotten the day after.

But the day after has come and gone, and the inane things have multiplied. The incredible Trump we believed didn't really exist is here to stay -- for four years, at least.

On his first day in office, we saw the absurd sight of two boys in the schoolyard arguing about who had the largest.

In this case, the largest inauguration crowd. He insisted that he had the greatest ever. As he should have expected, within minutes aerial photos appeared on TV, showing that Barack Obama's crowd was far larger.

So did he apologize? On the contrary, he insisted.

A spokeswoman appeared and explained that this was just a case of "alternative facts." A wonderful phrase. Pity I did not know it during my many years as a journalist. When I say at noon that it is midnight, it is just an alternative fact. (And is of course true -- in Hawaii or somewhere.)

I HAVE a very limited understanding of economics. But just a small amount of simple logic tells me that Trump's economic promises are baloney. One doesn't "bring back jobs" by talk.

Manual jobs are lost because of automation. The German and British textile workers destroyed the machines that took their jobs away. That was some 300 years ago, and it did not help them. Now Trump looks 100 years back, and wants things to revert.

A hundred years ago you needed a thousand workers to do the job done now by 10. This will remain so and intensify, even if you smash all the computers in the world.

Globalization is the spirit of the times. It is the natural outcome of a situation that allows me to react to Trump's words within a few seconds of his uttering them. When I can fly around the world in much less than 80 hours.

Trump can do very little about this. He cannot bring back the "protectionist" policies of the 18th century. If he slaps punitive duties on imports from China, China will impose duties on imports from the USA. Already, this week, a trade war has broken out between the US and Mexico.

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Congress Switchboard: 202-224-3121

"At 350.org we've always wanted to work from the bottom up, and it's good to see people assembling a theoretical framework for understanding this decentralized approach! "



Bill McKibben, founder 350.org, author of The End of Nature
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Listen or download (or embed) this audio podcast : https://archive.org/details/jeromepons

: https://archive.org/details/jeromepons Watch (or embed) this video interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKYbw6abXDU

(CNS): As fertility rates decline and life expectancy increases, the number of senior citizens is growing globally. Among the 7.3 billion people worldwide in 2015, an estimated 617.1 million were aged 65 years or more. The Asia Pacific region is ageing rapidly and South-East Asia's elderly numbers are growing fast at around 5% a year - between now and 2030 there will be nearly 20 million more people aged 60 and above in the region.

Turning its focus upon the the ageing populations in ASEAN countries, the European Union (EU) awarded a grant to the HelpAge East Asia Pacific Regional Office (HelpAge EAPRO) to implement a 4-year project (February 2013-January 2017) with key partners for "Strengthening the CSO Network on Ageing as a Development Partner in Southeast Asia (AMCo)". This project prioritised strategic activities in 6 ASEAN countries of Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam. The main issues that the project targeted were:

- network-capacity building;

- dialogue with governments/others on ageing issues;

- strengthening of older people's associations (OPAs) and their interaction with governments;

- expansion of social pensions and social assistance to vulnerable senior citizens; and

- increasing government awareness on the implications of rapid ageing and on the contributions and needs of older people.

Even as the ASEAN turns 50 and the EU turns 60 in 2017, the EU-ASEAN also celebrates this year the 40th anniversary of their relationship for promotion of common development goals.

In an exclusive interview given to CNS (Citizen News Service), on the sidelines of the closing workshop organised by HelpAge EAPRO in Chiang Mai, Mr Jerome Pons, Head of Cooperation (Malaysia and Thailand) at the European Union, made a strong case for adapting development responses to meet the unique needs of changing population demographics in Southeast Asia.

Stop ignoring ageing issues

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From Our Future



Trump Federal Hiring Freeze Actually COSTS MORE MONEY Under the guise of saving money and reducing the deficit.

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Donald Trump, in what's been hyped as an "unprecedented" move, has instituted a freeze on the hiring of federal employees. Hyperbole aside (it's hardly unprecedented, since Ronald Reagan did the same thing on his first day in office), one thing is already clear: this will hurt a lot of people.

Trump's order exempts military personnel, along with any position that a department or agency head "deems necessary to meet national security or public safety responsibilities." That offers a fair degree of latitude when it comes to filling positions in certain areas.

But Trump's appointees aren't likely to ask for "national security or public safety" exemptions for the many government jobs that help people in ways Republicans despise. So who stands to lose the most under this hiring freeze?

1. Social Security Recipients

Trump and his advisers seem to have had Social Security in mind when they included this language:

"This hiring freeze applies to all executive departments and agencies regardless of the sources of their operational and programmatic funding ..." (Emphasis mine.)

While there may be other reasons for this verbiage, it effectively targets Social Security, which is entirely self-funded through the contributions of working Americans and their employers.

Social Security is forbidden by law from contributing to the deficit. It has very low administrative overhead and is remarkably cost-efficient when compared to pension programs in the private sector.

That hasn't prevented Republicans in Congress from taking a meat cleaver to Social Security's administrative budget. That has led to increased delays in processing disability applications, longer travel times for recipients as more offices are closed, and longer wait times on the phone and in person.

Social Security pays benefits to retired Americans, disabled Americans, veterans, and children -- all of whom will be hurt by these cuts.

2. Working People

The Department of Labor, especially the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), ensures that working Americans are safe on the job. It's a huge task: Nearly 2.9 million Americans were injured on the job in 2015, according to OSHA data, and another 145,000 experienced a work-related illness. 4,836 people died from work-related injuries in 2016. (These numbers count only reported injuries, illnesses, and deaths; not all are reported.)

OSHA's employees study injury and illness patterns, communicate safety practices and rules, and inspect workplaces to make sure that the rules are being followed. This hiring freeze will lead to fewer such studies, communications, and inspections. That means working Americans will pay a price -- in injury, illness, and death.

3. Veterans

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Reprinted from popularresistance.org By Margaret Flowers and Kevin Zeese

The broad social movement in the United States has been growing for a number of years, most visibly in recent years with the Occupy Movement and then immigrant's rights, Indigenous, workers' and Black Lives Matter movements, to name a few. As the inauguration protests, the Women's Marches and the GOP protests in Philly showed this week, the broad social movement seems to be growing exponentially and some are escalating their tactics.



12th and L St NW Inauguration Day Part 2

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During the inauguration, there was a wide range of tactics used from permitted marches to peaceful blockades to property destruction. Eleanor Goldfield and Jason Yawn discuss black bloc tactics that included breaking windows, turning over trash cans and setting a limo on fire. They discuss why all tactics require consideration of whether the it will help to grow the movement or create blow black that strengthens the police and pushes people away from the movement. They raise the question of why people seem more concerned about broken windows than broken lives. To us, the use of tactics must always serve a strategy and goal.



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With daily assaults on our rights and the waning possibility of a livable future, one thing is clear: It is time for all of us to resist. That was the message seven Green Peace activists sent to Donald Trump on Wednesday with a 70 foot-wide banner hung from a crane within sight of the White House.

Resistance can and should be for positive changes. It's not enough to fight against the status quo, we must change the systems. That's why we are announcing a new campaign for National Improved Medicare for All. We choose this campaign because urgent change is needed with 30,000 people dying annually due to lack of access to healthcare. It is an issue that cuts across all races, genders and classes. And, it is an issue that has not been solved, despite obvious and simple solutions, because of the deep corruption of both parties. When we enact National Improved Medicare for All we will know the power structure is weakening. More information about the new campaign is below.

Fighting Back on Many Fronts

There is no doubt that we will have to continue to engage in struggles on many fronts in the days, weeks and years ahead. Daily Executive Orders, Trump's nominees and the plans put forth by Paul Ryan show that the movement will have to stop a lot of damage being planned by Trumpism.

Right from the start, the Trump administration made it clear where they stand on critical issues. The White House website expresses intolerance for dissent and praises the military and police. It says, "The dangerous anti-police atmosphere in America is wrong. The Trump Administration will end it." This presents a clear threat to all protesters, but appears to be specifically directed at Black Lives Matter and other movements for police accountability and justice system reform.



march for women, Philly Jan 2017

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Trump has declared a war on the media. It isn't only the administration's outright lies, which is actually not unusual from the White House, but also their refusal to answer reporters questions. And journalists are being arrested for covering protests and are being given felony charges.

Trump loves the military. He wanted to have tanks and missile launchers in the Inauguration Parade, but the Pentagon refused. He told the Washington Post that there will be military parades in Washington, DC and New York City. If this glorification of militarism happens, let's make sure that either nobody shows up or there are more antiwar protesters than spectators. Think of the great antiwar protest images that could be a message to the world other than Trump's effort to glorify the military.



Sherman Tank

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The Trump administration is also cracking down on federal agencies, freezing their hiring and funding and even banning information about climate change on federal websites and the use of social media. In response, federal workers are using social media anonymously and scientists are organizing a "Scientists March on Washington" to say "There are certain things that we accept as facts with no alternatives. The Earth is becoming warmer due to human action""

When it comes to dealing with the climate crisis, President Trump is driving in the wrong direction. The White House released a memorandum calling for the Dakota Access and Keystone XL Pipelines to be expedited. As the tribal council called for protesters to leave Standing Rock, the local police and national guard became more aggressive by stepping onto tribal territory and attacking media with rubber bullets. LaDonna Brave Bull Allard, a founder of the camp,along with others is refusing to retreat and is going ahead with plans to build a green energy camp on her property. Students escalated their resistance to fossil fuels this week by walking out of class nationwide to encourage further divestment.

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TurkeyMan Part 2

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Even in the woods of Alaska, you cannot run from your past forever. Eventually, you will make a mistake--leave a clue--like Butch did, when he dropped the newspaper clipping of the turkey theft, even though he tried to blame me. But it was obvious that only an Indian would commit such an atrocity--filch a fowl that is practically considered Uncle Sam's national bird--in the name of the American Indian--and Butch was definitely an Indian; even though I apparently talked like one in my sleep, so in a way, that made me a part-time Indian, at least in the vernacular sense. In any case, the sleep-talking was Butch's story. It was probably bullsh*t, but nevertheless--in conjunction with the alleged and undeserved suspicions of myself as a turkey-napper--probably serves as the most pathetic tribal assimilation process ever put forth. Unfortunately, however, as far as my qualifications go, it is enough for the FBI to call me an Indian terrorist. They do not particularly differentiate between full or part-time, which could be a violation of federal law, because I know the ordeal has taken at least 40-hours per week from my soul. By this time, I should be retired. I am not familiar with reservation labor laws, however.

I guess it sounds like I finally confessed--unless they forced it out of me--which would make me innocent. I do not remember any Miranda rights being read, but for all the pain it has caused, I might as well take credit. Hell, for all my protestations, it sounds like I am the world's most qualified expert. Ask me anything: I did it, and I did not. Psychologically, that probably makes me a multiple personality; but personality is not everything; it can only get you so far. In this line of business, it is not unusual to say two different things at the same time.

Hell, the weirder sh*t you make up, the more the FBI believes you, and also hates you, with a pathological passion. Eventually, however, you get good at it. I learned a lot from Butch. For a time, he was my best friend. But I still hated his guts. Maybe I should be an FBI agent.

After a while, I must say, it got old, arguing over the kidnapped turkey that had come home to roost in a damn photo. Even among the rubes of Thorne Bay, I was not stupid enough to fall for Butch's ignorant Audubon ruse--pretending that the turkey was a parrot. Just because I was sleeping in a carcinogenic charcoal forest did not mean I was a fumigated idiot. Butch was trying to frame me in the land of A-Frames.

"It says stolen turkey, right here, in the King's English!" I waved the turkey photo. "Don't you have an eye for detail? Can't you read?"

Butch was not moved. "I read the stars"--he mendaciously traced the heavens with an iconic finger that seemed to mimic Michelangelo's Creation of Adam on the Sistine Ceiling. "Orion says"--Butch orated--"if you burn the forest, you cannot log her. She is like a hot virgin."

"Logger?" I laughed. "Oh, good one. But we already did."

Beneath his dented hat, and charcoal cheeks, Butch glowered, his coarse hair bundled on both sides. A slight man, he slouched beneath his brim, probably thirty or thirty-five, it was hard to tell. His features were basically nondescript, like a grainy photo. Usually his eyes were sharp; now red and hazy; but still hyperlinked; as if you clicked on them, something might issue forth, perhaps a feathered turkey thief.

Or, are you referring?"--I blinked--"to the beverage? Indie lager, perhaps?"

Butch's gaze, like the sky, remained impenetrable.

I searched above for Orion-the-Warrior's constellation sword along with his alpha star, Betelgeuse--"The stars don't come out yet," I observed. "Midnight sun, remember?"

"The buffalo are gone."

Upon reflection, I could not argue with his profound summation. It was more deer and wolf country. Maybe mastodon if you went back a thousand years. At least a tusk or two.

"That's a mouthful." I examined the turkey photo more closely.

Beneath the zookeeper's tender brow and sensitive gaze--worthy of a supplicating priest--the obeisant turkey basked in a tragic, melancholic, and confessional spirit, a veritable stupor of eggshell-fragility, of suffering and self-pity--the two of them forming a lamentable, almost-angelical, if not mythical, Platonic tryst--a poignant masterpiece portrayal of bird and man--maybe not Madonna and child--but approaching perhaps Victor Hugo's classic compilation of good and evil: Les Miserables. In the bird's role as ornithological icon, it radiated a nimbus halo; either that, or water from the rainforest island had damaged the photo.

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US president Donald Trump's nominee for Secretary of Education, Betsy DeVos, faces a great deal of opposition to her confirmation. Most of that opposition comes from Democratic politicians and Democratic organizations. But if both parties stuck to their stated principles and goals, the Senate would vote 100-0 against her nomination.

Democratic opposition is easy to understand. The Department of Education is a major power center for the party. It employs 4,400 bureaucrats and disposes of a $68 billion budget. That budget is deceptively small. Although federal funds represent only about 8% of national government education spending, those funds come with strings attached allowing DoE (and by extension the National Education Association, the nation's largest labor union and a key Democratic constituency) to exert considerable control over every school district in America.

DeVos supports for-profit charter schools which compete with failing regular government schools for tax dollars. She also supports "voucher" programs which allow parents to use tax dollars to send their children to private schools. To groups like NEA, her nomination is the equivalent of waving a crucifix at a vampire. No wonder the Democrats hate her.

Republicans, on the other hand, have been promising to eliminate the Department of Education since 1980, the year it commenced operations. Somehow, though, they never seem to get around to it, even when they have complete control of the federal government and can do anything they like.

Republicans controlled the House, the Senate and the White House for four years during the administration of George W. Bush, and at the end of that the Department of Education still existed.

Now they control the House, the Senate and the White House again, and instead of consigning DoE to the dustbin of history as promised, they're entertaining the nomination of a new secretary to head the department.

The truth is that Republicans like the idea of federal meddling in education (something authorized nowhere in the US Constitution) as much as Democrats do. Their preferred form of interference is, if anything, even more pernicious than the NEA's "keep our tax-funded combination daycare centers/juvenile prisons just like they are, only more money, please" model.

"Voucher" programs and "charter schools" and other Republican schemes don't get the government out of your childrens' education. They just extend government regulation into "private" education and direct tax dollars to companies operated by Republican politicians' cronies instead of to labor unions operated by Democratic politicians' cronies.

What, did you think a voucher would let you send your kid to a school that doesn't meet government educrats' "standards" and "guidelines?" Silly parent! Real private schools are for rich folks like Betsy DeVos!

There's only one way to make American education great again: Complete separation of school and state.
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Japan Plumbing Industry Business Outlook and Procurement Report November 2016-2021

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Qyresearchreports include new market research reportJapan Plumbing Industry 2015 Market Research Report to its huge collection of research reports.The global market for Plumbing is the subject of a newly added market report, which discuses it in great detail. The report furnishes a thorough peek into the drivers and restraints in the global Plumbing market. It segments the global Plumbing market by relevant criteria and studies each of the segments at length to furnish a granular view of the market. All regional segments of the global Plumbing market are have been analyzed for their historical and recent figures. Leveraging this data along with the different growth driver and restraints, the growth prospects of the global Plumbing market have been examined.To Get Sample Copy of Report visit @The report uses market-leading analytical tools such as SWOT analysis and market attractiveness analysis to present a quantitative and qualitative overview of the global Plumbing market. Data uncovered from such analysis has been then studied by leading experts in the industry to spot key trends and opportunities in the market. The experts have also been interviewed for their take on the market, which makes the report an authoritative guide to the global Plumbing market.The report sheds light on the top-notch players in the global Plumbing market. It studies their winning strategies, product offerings, share in the market, and growth prospects. The report also delves into the macro-economic factors governing the Plumbing market so as to enable both aspiring and existing market players to chart a growth map.Some of the key questions answered by the report are:Which factors are impacting the growth in the market?What factors are acting as a roadblock to the market?What are the prospects of the market?Who are the key players in the market?What are the product offerings of the key players?What are the key strategies adopted by leading players in the market?Table of ContentsChapter One Industry Overview1.1 Definition and Specifications of Plumbing1.2 Classification of Plumbing1.3 Applications of Plumbing1.4 Industry Chain Structure of Plumbing1.5 Industry Overview of Plumbing1.6 Industry Policy Analysis of Plumbing1.7 Industry News Analysis of PlumbingOrder a copy of complete Research Report @Chapter Two Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis of Plumbing2.1 Bill of Materials(BOM) of Plumbing2.2 BOM Price Analysis of Plumbing2.3 Labor Cost Analysis of Plumbing2.4 Depreciation Cost Analysis of Plumbing2.5 Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis of Plumbing2.6 Manufacturing Process Analysis of PlumbingChapter Three Technical Data and Manufacturing Plants Analysis3.1 Capacity and Commercial Production Date of Japan Key Manufacturers in 20143.2 Manufacturing Plants Distribution of Japan Key Plumbing Manufacturers in 20143.3 R&D Status and Technology Source of Japan Plumbing Key Manufacturers in 20143.4 Raw Materials Sources Analysis of Japan Plumbing Key Manufacturers in 2014Chapter Four Sales Analysis of Plumbing by Regions, Product Type, and Applications4.1 Japan Sales of Plumbing by Regions 2010-20154.2 Japan Sales of Plumbing by Product Type 2010-20154.3 Japan Sales of Plumbing by Applications 2010-20154.4 Price Analysis of Japan Plumbing Key Manufacturers in 20154.5 Japan Capacity, Production, Import, Export, Sales, Price, Cost and Revenue of Plumbing 2010-2015Chapter Five Sales Revenue Analysis of Plumbing by Regions,Product Type, and Applications5.1 Japan Sales Revenue of Plumbing by Regions 2010-20155.2 Japan Sales Revenue of Plumbing by Product Type 2010-20155.3 Japan Sales Revenue of Plumbing by Applications 2010-20155.4 Sales Price Analysis of Plumbing by Regions,Product Type, and Applications 2010-2015Read More @About UsQYResearchReports.com is an unimpeachable source of market research data for clients that comprise acclaimed SMEs, Chinese companies, private equity firms, and MNCs. We provide market research reports on various categories such as Energy, Chemicals, Alternative and Green Energy, Manufacturing, Machinery, Pharmaceuticals and Materials, and Glass.1820 AvenueM Suite #1047Brooklyn, NY 11230United States
A pilots union has accused Horizon Air of violating labor laws and threatened to strike over low pay, according to a lawsuit filed Friday.

APA Teamsters Local 1224 said a staffing shortage has forced the airline to cancel flights, many of which were flown instead by Horizon's corporate sibling, Alaska Airlines.

The union represents 675 pilots for a regional carrier that brought 2.9 million passengers through Portland International Airport last year, making it the airport's third-biggest airline. A walkout could also put immense strain on Alaska, the Portland airport's biggest carrier, by cutting off its feeder routes.

In a lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court in Seattle, the union said the carrier stepped out of bounds when it started offering signing bonuses to address the shortage. The bonus offers began while Horizon was in contract negotiations with the union, which the union said violates federal labor laws.

In the contract negotiations, the pilots union has been seeking higher pay, which it says would help attract and retain more pilots. Regional airline pilots generally make less than major airlines, but Horizon pilots say they make even less than the industry standard.

They're also seeking better benefits and the creation of a career path that allows pilots to work their way up to Alaska Airlines.

"A one-time payment to new recruits does nothing to address the pilot retention issues at Horizon Air that are already jeopardizing service," said Jeff Cox, a Horizon pilot and executive council chairman of the local. "While they bring in millions in profits, Horizon and Alaska executives are trying to put a Band-Aid over gaping wounds and forcing our passengers to suffer."

In a statement, Horizon Air brushed off concerns of a strike.

"After months of negotiations with the pilot union, Horizon Air will continue to work toward a solution that is attractive to new pilots, while respecting the contributions of existing pilots and the competitive regional airline marketplace," the airline said. "We do not anticipate any disruption in service."

Horizon is based in SeaTac, Washington, but flight operations and much of its management team are based in Portland.

Its role for Portland passengers is expected to grow as Horizon upgrades its fleet to include Embraer E175 jets, which can fly longer routes than its current fleet of Bombardier Q400 turboprop planes. The new planes could unlock new routes between smaller markets.

-- Elliot Njus

enjus@oregonian.com

503-294-5034

@enjus
President Donald Trump's plan to build a wall, which could cost as much as $20 billion, along the entire U.S. border with Mexico isn't just expensive, it would also rip apart the tight-knit communities that straddle the two countries.

That's according to research from three master's degree candidates in architecture at Portland State University. They are finishing their thesis analyzing the problems a 2,000-mile-long wall would cause for cities and towns sprinkled across the four states that share a border with Mexico.

Janna Ferguson, Alex Ruiz and Genevieve Wasser drove 2,000 miles visiting towns on both sides of the border. In a presentation to the media Friday, they described the vibrant societies seen in such cities as Nogales, Arizona, the Texas communities of Laredo, El Paso and Brownsville, and other places U.S. and Mexican cities have symbiotic relationships.

"A wall would really damage the social structure and the economic development of those towns," said Ruiz, who was born and raised in Mexico.

The presentation came one week into the Trump administration and one day after the president's renewed push for a wall sparked the specter of a trade war with Mexico, one of the most important trade partners with the U.S.

The architecture students started their project before Trump won the presidency or had secured the Republican nomination, but they said they were interested in studying the issue because of his divisive rhetoric on the topic. They first started discussing the project in December 2015.

The trio traveled to the border towns last September and interviewed residents of both countries, U.S. Border Patrol officials and people who helped injured or sick immigrants trying to cross into the United States. They secured a $2,000 grant from PSU for the two-week trip.

All three said they opposed the wall for societal, environmental, and fiscal reasons. Their thesis is titled "Architecture as Migration: Rerendering the U.S.-Mexico Border through the Act of Storytelling." They expect to finish their studies later this year.

Ferguson said the research is intended to turn the perception of the border region on its head. "Mainstream media depicts the border lands as a very violent place, and a very negative place, and kind of a desolate place," she said in an interview. "We're trying to rerender that."

Though they were inclined to oppose the wall before visiting the towns, the group said that they tried to keep an open mind going in.

But now, they have no illusion of impartiality given the "disorienting and frustrating" political situation playing out in Washington, Ferguson said.

"We want to be radical, and we want to take a stance [against the wall]," she said, "Because I think we're at a place in our political situation in our country that that needs to happen."

Trump campaigned on combatting illegal immigration and repeatedly said his administration would build a "great wall" and that Mexico would pay for it. The issue heated up again this week, after Trump took to Twitter and his press secretary announced that the president was considering a 20 percent tax on imports from Mexico to pay for the wall. Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto reiterated that his country would not pay for the wall and promptly cancelled a White House visit set for next week.

The architecture students studied other famous walls, like the Berlin Wall and Great Wall of China, and researched the societal effects before traveling to the border.



They said a key finding is that such a wall would eliminate the hospitable nature of the region. Wasser said everyone knows what it's like to be welcomed and experience good hospitality. A wall would erase that. "What's happening there already is already pretty successful in that sense, socially," she said.

Beyond the social connections, they said, the rugged and often dangerous terrain along much of the border also makes building a wall impractical.

Dozens of people die attempting to cross the border illegally each year, where temperatures can soar to 120 degrees in the summer.

Some areas are prone to flash flooding, and the Rio Grande marks the border for much of Texas. They noted the wall is especially unpopular in Texas, where much of the land is privately owned.

"The wall is not going to do anything," Wasser said, when asked if the proposal would curtail illegal immigration.

The U.S.-Mexico border already has 700 miles of fencing or a wall, and Wasser said people would just use a ladder to get over it.



-- Andrew Theen

atheen@oregonian.com

503-294-4026

@andrewtheen
Crater Lake

Crater Lake National Park seen on July 19, 2015. (Mike Zacchino/Staff)

President Donald Trump's first full week in office included a rare moment in the social media limelight for the National Park Service.

Not only did multiple news outlets report that Trump called the director of the park service to help him find evidence that his inauguration was better attended than Barack Obama's, but a parks Twitter account briefly made national news.

Tweets from Badlands National Park's account went viral after the account posted climate change facts, then the tweets were promptly deleted.

In the wake, alternative National Park accounts sprouted up like the jagged rock formations that define the South Dakota landmark.

Chas Hundley, a journalist who edits two hyperlocal news sites in rural Washington County, was curious who was behind the alternative accounts that were quickly landing huge followings on Twitter.

So, as Hundley explained in a Medium piece, he set up the @AltCraterLakeNP handle on Twitter. He reached out to one of the "Alt-Government" lists compiling the fake accounts, and set up a brief bio making clear he was not a government employee.

He was in.

"In moments of being added to the list, people started following the account. Dozens, then hundreds," Hundley wrote on Medium.

The Society of Environmental Journalists drew attention to the site, and the list of followers grew and grew to more than 7,700.

He tweeted, "Joining the #Resistance with @AltYosemiteNPS, @AltVolcanoes_NP, @AltNatParkSer, and more! #ClimateChangeIsReal"

The experiment was a success, but he doesn't want to lead people astray.

It was evidence of the polarizing world we live in today. "People will follow anything as long as it fits their narrative," he said.

Hundley was quickly a part of an internet craze, and no one seemed to care who was behind it.

"Not a single person has sent the account a message questioning who is behind the account," he said on Medium.

Hundley said he doesn't know what to do with the account next.

The dozens of fake National Park accounts have tens of thousands of followers and a huge megaphone to publish whatever they'd like.

What does Hundley have in mind? "Perhaps I'll continue tweeting climate science tweets. Perhaps I'll transfer the account to a Russian propagandist. Perhaps some of the other accounts will, too."

Check out the full piece on Medium.



-- Andrew Theen

atheen@oregonian.com

503-294-4026

@andrewtheen




Nose to the ground, Dante races through the hazelnut orchard. The fluffy Lagotta Romagnolo is trained to search for truffles - a pungent mushroom that expert dogs can sniff out 100 yards away.

After a few minutes, Dante beelines toward a tree and scratches at its base. Pat Long rushes over, flicks out his pocketknife and starts digging. He unearths a gumball-sized Perigord truffle, named for the region where they were first commercially cultivated in France.

More than 5,000 miles away in the Willamette Valley, the Corvallis veterinarian is growing the famous - and famously expensive -- mushrooms. This one is perfectly ripe.

Then, he finds another one. Long flattens his body to the cold, wet winter soil and puts his own nose right over the spot. It smells right, too.

"Now this is exciting to me," Long said. "To have two growing here where last year there was only one."

Long just sold the state's first commercial crop of French black truffles, a feat that put the Northwest on the map of an elite group of regions across the globe that offer the expensive delicacies. They can bring upwards of $800 a pound.

Oregon truffle industry leaders say the state is on the cusp of becoming the U.S. truffle leader in production and diversity, and Long's orchard is one of the most important steps in that direction. Europe dominates the market, but Long sees an opportunity to offer a fresher product to American chefs.

"It represents our nascent industry crossing a threshold," said Charles Lefevre, a mycologist and founder of the Oregon Truffle Festival that draws people to the state from across the country. "We're not only one of the few places on Earth that have its own native truffles, but now we're also cultivating European truffles."

Long was the first of two Perigord truffle farmers in Oregon to sell to restaurants this season. The state's wild native truffles are popular regionally, but lack the fame of French blacks and Italian whites. They have long been a cheaper option because they're often harvested by foragers with rakes that damage them and indiscriminately pull underripe or overripe ones in with the good ones, but have inched up in price the past few years.

Farmers in California, Southern states including North Carolina and Tennessee, Idaho and in British Columbia also sell European and U.S. species commercially to rising prominence, but not at the same volume and variety as here.

The growth of Oregon's market comes at what could be a fortuitous time. Australia and Spain have cut into France's lock on the black truffle as aging orchards have further reduced the French output. About 100 years ago, France's production peaked at 1,000 tons per year. Now, the global production is nearer 150 tons per year. But demand is still high.

***

If you go

If you're interested in learning more about truffles, cultivation and Oregon's industry, the Oregon Truffle Festival is still going.

Where: Various locations in Eugene

Tickets range from $15 to $625, depending on which events you attend

For more information: Visit the

Long is now thrust into a world that's largely hidden from most diners who don't care to pay the prices truffle dishes pull.

Depending on how they're used, the addition of French black truffles can push a dish into the $30 to $100 range. Usually shaved over a pasta or risotto, rather than eaten whole, truffles can also be infused into anything fatty, which absorbs the aroma.

The niche market attracts a fervent following and comes with risks that most U.S. farmers don't face.

Long will likely stop inviting visitors to his orchard after this year's truffle festival to guard against potential poachers - a threat as common as slugs in Europe and other truffle-producing areas. His orchard is slightly hidden from the road by thick row of firs and pines and surrounded by farmland he uses for tomatoes and other seasonal crops.

Then, there is the fragility of the fungus. Every minute after the truffle leaves the ground, its pungence wanes slightly. Growers overseas drop everything to clean, pack and ship the truffles once they're harvested. For importers in the U.S., a new shipment inspires near-panic to offload them to elite chefs before the worth drops with the scent.

Perigord truffles smell like rain-soaked dirt and musk and stinky cheese -- or like a sweaty gym bag or like gasoline or an infinite number of descriptors that make consumers question whether they actually want to eat the mushrooms.

Here, Oregon truffle farmers gain an edge. Long sold his first batch of Perigords to Matt Bennett, whose Albany restaurant, Sybaris, is a 20-minute drive from the farm.

"It's all about the smell," said Bennett, a James Beard-nominated chef, cupping his hands to funnel the aroma of a pinball-sized truffle that had arrived straight from Long's farm.

He shaved some of the truffles onto a plain egg pasta to show off their flavor. The bumpy outer shells were thrown into a chicken stock aromatic enough to be sipped on its own, like tea.

Bennett likes to squeeze some lemon into the stock to set off the truffle flavor. He also infused butter with the remainders.

He serves as many local ingredients as possible, such as Oregon's wild white and black truffles, and was happy to buy French black truffles grown in the Northwest, he said, but still will probably rely on imported French black truffles most of the time.

Long's truffles aren't quite consistently as good as the European-grown supply, Bennett said.

"They've got to be on the money, especially for the kind of money you're talking about," he said.

Still, he's impressed with Long's product. When the farmer first mentioned his experiment, Bennett was skeptical. Finally, Long delivered truffles last month that were big enough and show the dark black interior laced with thin white veins that indicates a truffle at its peak.

"It's the first step," Bennett said. "What used to have a lot of magic in it, he's trying to turn into a regular crop."

***

Long had never tasted a truffle when he read about them in the June 1999 issue of American Airline's inflight magazine American Way.

He had just moved next to Oregon State University's mycology research center and wanted to set up his 60-acre property as a hobby farm, recapturing a piece of his childhood when he grew up on a farm in Kansas.

Long's property lies on the 45th parallel -- the same as the truffle-producing areas in Europe. Oregon State researchers connected him with Lefevre, a graduate student at the time, who agreed to inoculate nearly 500 hazelnut trees for him - a process of infecting seedlings with the fungus, so both would grow up together.

Long planted nine rows of trees, 40 to 50 in each row, at the bottom of a hill. In France, truffles often grow on scree slopes, but Long figured he'd try.

It was a start for both of them. Lefevre graduated and founded New World Truffieres, now one of the most prominent companies selling inoculated trees in North America. He has helped launch growers in Idaho and on Vancouver Island in British Columbia who are raising other famous European truffle varieties -- bianchetto and Burgundy truffles.

Much of Long's success comes from trial and error, yet he's now a foremost expert in North America, invited to consult and lecture other truffle growers.

For several years after planting the hazelnut orchard in 2000, Long ignored the level of maintenance needed to foster a commercial mushroom crop. The orchard grew short and slightly untamed, little to indicate it was anything more than forgotten.

Then, he found a truffle growing in February 2013. The next year, he grew another. Then, 20.

This season, he reached critical mass, though he won't say exactly how many that is. Long dialed in the right amount of lime to use to keep the soil's pH balance higher than the Willamette Valley's natural range and spent more time on testing irrigation systems.

In September, when truffles start breaking ground, Long noticed a few. He brought a dog to run through the orchard in October and it found 10 Long had missed. A few more trips uncovered new truffles each time.

Long marked the uncovered truffles with a blue flag. Yellow, red and orange flags indicated clusters of truffles from past years.

Some blue flags crept into the aisles between the tree rows, exciting Long the most. Truffles grow from fungus at the roots of trees. Spreading out from close to tree trunks means the fungus is fully established in the soil.

Long placed a plastic container over the unripe truffles so he knew to check on them in another week. He already had an order from a connoisseur who wants some Perigords for a dinner party.

An average orchard produces 35 pounds per acre. Long is close, and making enough money to profit. He plans to redouble his efforts in the coming years to see how far he can take his 2-acre orchard.

Lefevre assures him that it could someday compete with the best truffle farms in the world.

"That's one of the challenges of being at this stage and nobody having been there before," Long said.

-- Molly Harbarger

mharbarger@oregonian.com

503-294-5923

@MollyHarbarger
1mattis.JPG

In this Jan. 21, 2107 file photo, Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Joseph Dunford greets Defense Secretary James Mattis at the Pentagon.

(AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

By Jennifer Rubin

Since taking office, President Donald Trump has announced an "America First" policy, formally pulled out of the Trans-Pacific Partnership, painted a bleak picture of America, delivered a campaign-style inaugural address and embarked on a series of showy but unnecessary and expensive immigration initiatives. Meanwhile, Defense Secretary James Mattis has:

--Publicly embraced the intelligence community (which Trump has publicly ridiculed and feuded with).

--Praised NATO and reached out to NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg "to reconnect and discuss the key role NATO plays in transatlantic security. The secretary, who previously served as NATO's Supreme Allied Commander for Transformation, wanted to place the call on his first full day in office to reinforce the importance he places on the alliance. The two leaders discussed the importance of our shared values, and the secretary emphasized that when looking for allies to help defend these values, the United States always starts with Europe."

--Scheduled a trip to visit badly shaken allies in Asia. ("Secretary of Defense James Mattis will embark on his first trip as secretary Feb. 1-4 to meet with his counterparts from two critical allies, Japan and the Republic of Korea. The four day trip will include stops in Seoul and Tokyo. . . . The trip will underscore the commitment of the United States to our enduring alliances with Japan and the Republic of Korea, and further strengthen U.S.-Japan-Republic of Korea security cooperation.")

--Delivered a moving and unifying speech to his department.

Speaking in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day (which occurred before he took office), he told the Pentagon civilian and military employees on Wednesday:

---

We've experienced the coequal commitment - didn't matter what rank you were, didn't matter if you're civilian or military - a coequal commitment across this department to the mission. And it's a mission that calls for all hands to strive together and to fight together and to look out for one another.

Today, we observe the legacy of a man up here on the board behind me - a man who has called upon Americans many times to strive together and to fight together and to do their duty in the long struggle for equality and civil rights. In our nation's history, our military has often served as an example to the American people of unity and strength, of how a diverse group of people can be motivated even under austere or grim conditions of the battlefield, to come together as equals.

---

He then took the DOD employees on a short history tour, recounting Meriwether Lewis and William Clark's 1805 journey aided by an African American slave and Sacajawea. He recalled, "They returned east to report back to their commander-in-chief, President Thomas Jefferson. They accomplished their mission to find the best route to the Pacific, and it was an all-hands effort."

At a time of great polarization in the country, with the most instantaneously unpopular and divisive president in recent memory, Mattis stressed unity of purpose. "Military service in America is a touchstone for American patriots of all races, genders, creeds. The men and women of the Department of Defense, military and civilian, reflect the diverse and selfless character of our national defense and have done so long before our nation had reached the level it has reached today in terms of civil rights." This is far from the Trumpian gimmick of decreeing a day of patriotism. This is the real deal -- selfless sacrifice, given freely for fellow Americans.

While the president fans the flames of intolerance, Mattis tells the military and civilian employees to be an example to the rest of the country. ("Our armed forces are stronger today because of the perseverance of Dr. King and so many others in this country who have fought for civil rights and equality for all. And we can trace our department's roots back to an Army patrol in 1805 when we listened to our better angels, and on this day of action, we are inspired to continue being a model for our nation.")

We hope the White House is listening and watching. Mattis is the only one in the administration so far to act, well, presidential and responsible. He knows we need allies. He knows the intelligence community is vital to our security. And he knows American values must be reinforced and celebrated. He knows our diversity is an asset, not a threat. Too bad Trump doesn't get any of this.

(c) 2017, The Washington Post
By Charles Krauthammer

WASHINGTON -- The flurry of bold executive orders and of highly provocative Cabinet nominations (such as a secretary of education who actually believes in school choice) has been encouraging to conservative skeptics of Donald Trump. But it shouldn't erase the troubling memory of one major element of Trump's inaugural address.

Charles Krauthammer

The foreign policy section has received far less attention than so revolutionary a declaration deserved. It radically redefined the American national interest as understood since World War II.

Trump outlined a world in which foreign relations are collapsed into a zero-sum game. They gain, we lose. As in: "For many decades, we've enriched foreign industry at the expense of American industry; subsidized the armies of other countries" while depleting our own. And most provocatively this: "The wealth of our middle class has been ripped from their homes and then redistributed all across the world."

JFK's inaugural pledged to support any friend and oppose any foe to assure the success of liberty. Note that Trump makes no distinction between friend and foe (and no reference to liberty). They're all out to use, exploit and surpass us.

No more, declared Trump: "From this day forward, it's going to be only America First."

Imagine how this resonates abroad. "America First" was the name of the organization led by Charles Lindbergh that bitterly fought FDR before U.S. entry into World War II -- right through the Battle of Britain -- to keep America neutral between Churchill's Britain and Hitler's Reich.

Not that Trump was consciously imitating Lindbergh. I doubt he was even aware of the reference. He just liked the phrase. But I can assure you that in London and in every world capital they are aware of the antecedent and the intimations of a new American isolationism. Trump gave them good reason to think so, going on to note "the right of all nations to put their own interests first." America included.

Some claim that putting America first is a reassertion of American exceptionalism. On the contrary, it is the antithesis. It makes America no different from all the other countries that define themselves by a particularist blood-and-soil nationalism. What made America exceptional, unique in the world, was defining its own national interest beyond its narrow economic and security needs to encompass the safety and prosperity of a vast array of allies. A free world marked by open trade and mutual defense was President Truman's vision, shared by every president since.

Until now.

Some have argued that Trump is just dangling a bargaining chip to negotiate better terms of trade or alliance. Or that Trump's views are so changeable and unstable -- telling European newspapers two weeks ago that NATO is obsolete and then saying "NATO is very important to me" -- that this is just another unmoored entry on a ledger of confusion.

But both claims are demonstrably wrong. An inaugural address is no off-the-cuff riff. These words are the product of at least three weeks of deliberate crafting for an address that Trump said would express his philosophy. Moreover, to remove any ambiguity, Trump prefaced his "America first" proclamation with: "From this day forward, a new vision will govern our land."

Trump's vision misunderstands the logic underlying the far larger, far-reaching view of Truman. The Marshall Plan sure took wealth away from the American middle class and distributed it abroad. But for a reason. Altruism, in part. But mostly to stabilize Western Europe as a bulwark against an existential global enemy.

We carried many free riders throughout the Cold War. The burden was heavy. But this was not a mindless act of charity; it was an exercise in enlightened self-interest. After all, it was indeed better to subsidize foreign armies -- German, South Korean, Turkish and dozens of others -- and have them stand with us, rather than stationing even more American troops everywhere around the world at greater risk of both blood and treasure.

We are embarking upon insularity and smallness. Nor is this just theory. Trump's long-promised but nonetheless abrupt withdrawal from the Trans-Pacific Partnership is the momentous first fruit of his foreign policy doctrine. Last year the prime minister of Singapore told John McCain that if we pulled out of TPP "you'll be finished in Asia." He knows the region.

For 70 years, we sustained an international system of open commerce and democratic alliances that has enabled America and the West to grow and thrive. Global leadership is what made America great. We abandon it at our peril.

Charles Krauthammer's email address is letters@charleskrauthammer.com.

(c) 2017, The Washington Post Writers Group
1wyden.JPG

U.S. Senator Ron Wyden speaks during an immigrant rights rally at the Oregon State Capitol in Salem on Saturday, Jan. 14, 2017.

(Anna Reed/Statesman-Journal via AP)

"Your fight will be my fight," U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden told a crowd demonstrating for illegal immigrants' "rights" at the state Capitol earlier this month. If it is, that fight will be against the very constituents he was elected to serve.

Just over two years ago, in the November 2014 general election, those constituents rejected illegal-immigrant driver cards by a whopping 66 percent to 34 percent margin. In doing so, voters made clear their opposition to policies that reward and encourage illegal immigration.

If Wyden really wishes to wage a fight, it should be to advance that voter mandate. The way for him to start is by supporting President Trump as he works to secure our porous borders, punish illegal-immigrant "sanctuary cities," and remove illegal immigrants from the jobs they are taking by the millions from young and lower-skilled Americans.

Cynthia Kendoll

Salem

The author is president of Oregonians for Immigration Reform.
Americas Russian Hypocrisy

.





NEW YORK  I hate agreeing with Vladimir Putin, even a little. Russias president is dragging his country  the country of my birth  backwards, and falsely argues that violating international law is somehow good for Russians. But the hysterical response of Americans to the Kremlins alleged efforts to influence the US presidential election has forced me to look at things from Putins perspective.

To be sure, the US intelligence agencies allegations that Russia purveyed fake news and released hacked emails, in order to hurt Hillary Clintons chances against Donald Trump, are not baseless. It is certainly in Putins character to purloin secrets and create disinformation; he was a KGB operative, after all.

Likewise, the accusations that Putin is holding a dossier of compromising material on Trump, though uncorroborated, also ring true. It would make little sense for Russia to spare Trump, of all people, from its schemes. And, beyond Trump, Republican Party leaders must know that if Russia hacked the Democrats, their own servers must have been hacked, too.

Even if the alleged dossiers sensational details are not accurate, chances are that Russia is holding at least some compromising business records, or even Trumps tax returns  information that Trump has worked very hard to keep hidden from the American public. If Trump doesnt play nice, taking Russias side on issues ranging from NATO to Ukraine, he will likely see his secrets laid bare, just as Clintons were.

The US response to this prospect has been extreme. Those firmly in Trumps camp are willing to indulge the fragile bromance between Trump and Putin, despite its obvious vulnerability to exploitation by both sides. Others, including some senior Republicans, cite the recently released US intelligence report on Russias suspected interference in the election and demand stern measures against Putins government, even though a new Cold War is clearly in no ones interest.

In my view, the intelligence report itself was fundamentally problematic. Full of conjecture and bias, the report is based on the argument that Putin must be an enemy, because he doesnt share Western values. But how could he? Russia was never fully welcome in the Western world order, much less able to participate in it on equal terms. That is why Putin has sought to create his own international order.

In fact, in the early days of his presidency, Putin wanted Russia to be part of Europe. But he was immediately confronted with NATOs expansion into the Baltic states. In 2006, then-President George W. Bushs administration announced plans to build a missile-defense shield in Eastern Europe, in order to protect the Western allies against intercontinental missiles from Iran. Russia viewed the plan  which President Barack Obama went through with last year  as a direct threat, and a sign that calls for closer ties should be regarded with caution.

The US has supported anti-Putin forces since 2008, but ramped up that support in 2011, when Putin, then the prime minister, prepared to return to the presidency. In 2013, the US cheered the protests in Ukraine that ultimately ousted the pro-Russian president, Viktor Yanukovych.

But while Yanukovych was undoubtedly a crook, the US supports plenty of crooks. Its effort to deny Russia, or any other power, the right to possess similarly odious factotums is pure hypocrisy.

Such duplicity has pervaded US foreign policy. Bushs war in Iraq was launched on the basis of tendentious intelligence. For his part, Obama supported the Arab Spring uprisings, but offered no pro-democratic strategy  an approach that has led Libya to become a failed state, Egypt to become even more dictatorial, and Syria to collapse into nightmarish and protracted conflict.

Meanwhile, the US National Security Agency was spying on everyone, whether friend or foe.

The US intelligence report asserts that Putin is seeking to undermine liberal democracy. It seems clear, however, that his more immediate goal is to expose the Wests double standards, thereby breaking down Western barriers to his pursuit of Russian interests. If the US can behave so badly without apology, Putins thinking goes, why should Russia be denied its sphere of influence in, say, Ukraine?

For that matter, why shouldnt Putin have attempted to help out Trump? Ukrainians campaigned for Clinton, believing that she would advance their interests. It is perfectly reasonable that Putin would back Trump, who had repeatedly expressed admiration for his leadership, over Clinton, who had compared him to Adolf Hitler. The notion that he shouldnt take steps to protect his interests is ideological partiality disguised as objectivity, and it lends credence to Putins claims that the West is out to get him.

Dont get me wrong: despite its imperfections, the US remains a positive force in the world. Indeed, it may well be the only strongly positive force, along with the European Union, which should stop squabbling and start curtailing megalomaniacal and illiberal leaders like Hungarys Putin-infatuated prime minister, Viktor Orban.

Moreover, the prospect that their new president is in Putins pocket should certainly be worrying to Americans. And the Wests policies toward Russia  economic sanctions or military exercises in border countries like Poland  are not necessarily wrong. What is wrong is that those concerns and policies are driven largely by anger over Putins own nationalism, rather than by a careful consideration of the diplomatic and strategic milieu.

If the US allows itself to become caught up in suspicion and conjecture about Russian involvement in its recent election, it will most likely find itself locked in an even more destructive confrontation with Putin. Instead, the US should devise a sound, thoughtful, and measured approach toward Russia  one that appeals to values not as propaganda, but as the basis of a more straightforward and credible foreign policy.
Estimados amigos,

Les doy cordialmente la bienvenida a este Blog informativo con articulos, analisis y comentarios de publicaciones especializadas y especialmente seleccionadas, principalmente sobre temas economicos, financieros y politicos de actualidad, que esperamos y deseamos, sean de su maximo interes, utilidad y conveniencia.

Pensamos que solo comprendiendo cabalmente el presente, es que podemos proyectarnos acertadamente hacia el futuro.

Las convicciones son mas peligrosos enemigos de la verdad que las mentiras.

There are decades when nothing happens and there are weeks when decades happen.

You only find out who is swimming naked when the tide goes out.

No soy alguien que sabe, sino alguien que busca.

Only Gold is money. Everything else is debt.

Las grandes almas tienen voluntades; las debiles tan solo deseos.

Quien no lo ha dado todo no ha dado nada.

History repeats itself, first as tragedy, second as farce.

If you know the other and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles.

We are travelers on a cosmic journey, stardust, swirling and dancing in the eddies and whirlpools of infinity. Life is eternal. We have stopped for a moment to encounter each other, to meet, to love, to share.This is a precious moment. It is a little parenthesis in eternity.
After helping shape an agreement on a replacement for the developer-friendly 421-a tax break scheme, Governor Andrew Cuomo has rebranded the program as the "Affordable New York Housing Program" earlier this month. "It's actually, in my opinion, a better program than the old 421-a," Cuomo told John Catsimatidis on the grocery mogul's radio show. Cuomo claimed the program would lead to 2,500 new affordable apartments and 9,000 apartments total per year. However, a new report says that Affordable New York will let landlords take their apartments out of rent stabilization much faster than they could under 421-a.

ProPublica looked into what Affordable New York would mean as far as actual affordable housing, and according to the bill being considered right now, it would allow landlords to continue getting 35-year property tax breaks even if they take units out of rent stabilization before 35 years are up. ProPublica points to a section of the bill that states that market-rate units will remain under rent stabilization for the entirety of the life of the property tax break unless they pass the vacancy decontrol threshold of $2,700 a month. Under 421-a, in addition to setting aside a portion of reduced-rent units for people of specific income ranges, landlords were required to limit rent increases in all apartments for the 25-year lifespan of the tax break.

A provision like this would allow landlords to get apartments out of the rent-stabilization program immediately after the first person moves out of the unit, the website points out, since rents are usually set near or above $2,700 per month to begin with, and building owners get to raise rent according to a proportion of the cost of renovationseasy to exploit if you know the right contractor.

We've asked the Governor's Office for a comment on this provision and will update the story if they respond.

Of course, even in the event this provision changes, Affordable New York could run the risk of having the same problems that the 421-a program did, namely that developers got the tax breaks without any city or state agencies actually ensuring that they provide the promised low-income housing.

At the end of the year last year, the de Blasio administration identified 178 landlords who were receiving 421-a tax breaks but didn't register their buildings as rent-stabilized. An earlier report found that two-thirds of the 6,400 buildings getting the property tax abatement weren't registered with the state as being rent-stabilized. So far, "enforcement" efforts have consisted of a series of tersely worded letters to owners.

Cuomo has raked in $4.2 million from taxpayer-subsidized developers across his various campaigns, a third of which came from Glenwood Management, the big-spending builder implicated in the corruption schemes that took down former Assembly speaker Sheldon Silver and former Senate leader Dean Skelos. A recent expose by ProPublica and The Real Deal lays out in revolting detail how, in addition to funding obvious power brokers like the so-called three men in a room who have the final say in Albany, New York City real estate bigwigs have been pouring money into obscure upstate legislative races to ensure fealty to programs that enrich them like 421-a, and opposition to tenant protections like rent stabilization.
Michigan State Police announced the 2016 recipients of the Dr. Carl A. Gerstacker Trooper of the Year, Motor Carrier Officer of the Year and Floyd R. Bell Jr. Civilian of the Year awards. They received the awards at a special ceremony in Lansing on Thursday.

Trooper of the Year is Trooper Matthew Kiser of the Metro North Post, a 20-year veteran of the department.

The Gerstacker Award recognizes the MSP trooper or sergeant who symbolizes outstanding professional ethics, dedication to duty and a concern for giving back to their community. The late Dr. Carl A. Gerstacker, former chairman of The Dow Chemical Co., created the award in 1961.

Trooper Kisers exemplary work performance, extensive community involvement and leadership skills make him an excellent choice for Trooper of the Year, Col. Kriste Kibbey Etue stated in a media release. We truly thank him for two decades of service with a purpose.

Kiser has been instrumental in several MSP community initiatives, including Stuff a Blue Goose and Special Olympics Field Day. He also participates in programs at local schools and gives presentations for Families Against Narcotics in Oakland County.

Kiser enlisted with the department in 1996, graduating as a member of the 114th Trooper Recruit School. Prior to serving at the Metro North Post, he has served at the Sandusky and Detroit posts.

Kiser served in the United States Navy from 1989 to 1994.

Motor Carrier Officer Daniel Priebe of the Lakeview Post, a 17-year veteran of the department, was named Motor Carrier Officer of the Year.

The Motor Carrier Officer of the Year Award recognizes the MSP motor carrier officer who symbolizes outstanding professional ethics, dedication to duty and concern for giving back to their community.

Brian McEachern of the MSP Intelligence Operations Division, a nearly 25-year veteran of the department, has been named Civilian of the Year. McEachern is currently a departmental supervisor at the Negaunee Regional Communication Center.

The MSP Civilian of the Year Award is named in honor of the late Floyd R. Bell Jr., a 42-year employee of the MSP, who continuously demonstrated commitment and dedication to the department and his community.
To the editor:

The Midland County Emergency Food Pantry Network (EFPN) had a Mobile Food Pantry (MFP) at the Midland Civic Arena on Jan. 18. This food give-away was funded by the Lions Club of Midland. Ninety-eight volunteers served 249 families (756 individuals) with food purchased from the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan.

The food included frozen carrots, beans and meats, fresh tomatoes and cucumbers, eggs, boxed foods, pastries and breads. First-time volunteers included employees from the R&D finance accounting department of Dow Chemical and six students from the Academic and Career Education Academy of Midland.

The Network is also grateful to the many donors of food, money and time throughout the year to the Networks mission of always food in every home. Midland County residents in (financial) need of food and personal care items during the year may call the Network number of (989) 486-9393 to leave their name and phone number.

The second MFP in 2017 is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 18, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, located on the corner of West Sugnet and Eastman roads in Midland.

Thanks again to the members of the Lions Club and to the staff of the Midland Civic Arena for their partnering support!

SALLY ANN SUTTON

Midland County EFPN
Gorgeous shades of yellow have become increasingly popular in home decor, a trend that seems set to continue in the coming year. Yellow is prominent in the Sherwin-Williams color forecast for 2017, while Pantone describes their new "color of the year," called Greenery, as "a fresh and zesty yellow-green."

"We haven't seen yellow this popular since the 80s," says New York-based interior designer Young Huh. And in the months to come, she says, "we will see more and more of it as accent colors and as whole room colors."

But while yellow is having a moment, many shades of it can be challenging to use successfully. We've asked Huh and two other design experts  Florida-based interior designer Andrew Howard and Kayla Kitts, managing editor of special projects for HGTV.com  to share tips on using this sunny, cheerful color.

Where to use it

A recent report by Zillow Digs found that homes with white-painted kitchens sell for $1,400 less than homes with yellow kitchens. If yellow walls seem like too big a leap, Howard suggests using yellow for upholstery and pillows or for kitchen cabinets. In addition to kitchens, Huh says yellow is catching on for entries and hallways "because it makes these utilitarian spaces cheerful." In hallways, it adds a sense of sunshine in a space with little natural light.

Kitts suggests using yellow in "small, more compact spaces that you're looking to make larger," like a powder room. She also says you might want to reject some conventional wisdom that yellow is too bright and busy for a bedroom, especially if it doubles as a home office. A warm yellow can energize the space, while still feeling relaxing.

"The trick with yellow is that most people don't even know they like it until they see it in a space." says Howard. "Don't be afraid to go big. I once painted an entire laundry room yellow and everyone that sees it loves it."

Favorite shades

Yellow is "such a fresh color, and instantly adds life to any space you use it in," says Howard. He suggests starting with a primary yellow and then bringing in other colors for balance: "A room that is yellow by itself will get overwhelming. It needs a blue or green or even a lavender to cool it down a bit."

Kitts and Huh are both fans of more citrusy yellows, and even chartreuse.

"I especially like Pantone's primrose yellow because, like the color of the year, Greenery, there is an acid element which makes the color more exciting and edgy," says Huh. "It's a color we see in nature, but in an electric way. This is not your grandma's yellow. It's fashion forward and forward thinking."

These colors look great paired with gray or blue shades. "Pale yellow is also a wonderful ground color for extravagant colorful prints," says Huh. Even in its softer incarnations, "it evokes hope, sunshine and brightness."

Kitts agrees: "Buttery shades are really great for adding a warm glow and making a space feel cozy." In rooms that get a lot of natural sunlight, she says, even more neutral yellows like cornsilk will offer that optimistic energy that characterizes yellow.

Challenges

No shade of yellow is impossible to use, but do choose with care. Kitts says that if you'll be painting walls yellow, test out a shade and view it throughout the day to see how it changes in different types of natural light and with different lamps.

You might have to live with a sample of a bright, lemon yellow for a few weeks to make sure it's something you want long-term. Yet going with paler yellows isn't always a safer bet.

"Yellow can be tricky, because if it is too pale and the room it is in is relatively dark or gets cool, north-facing light, the color will look dingy rather than cheerful or calming," says Huh. "In England, where the weather can be drab, period rooms are painted bright yellows. Nancy Lancaster's famous yellow drawing room is perhaps the greatest and most popular example of a striking yellow room."

Contrast can also help: "Yellow needs to be paired with a cooler color to have it work effectively," says Howard. "It cannot be the only color in a room."

So take time to choose shades that delight you.

"The yellows that are trending now are the ones that are not pure yellows, but tertiary colors," says Huh. "These are not classic yellows that you may have seen in the past. They're either refreshing or deep moody yellow, and will inspire more emotion than a pure yellow. Because of this, we'll see these yellows in smaller moments, accents such as contrast pillows or on one upholstered chair in a room."

Despite its challenges, yellow is an easy color to love, says Howard.
LINCOLN  Two former correctional officers at the Logan Correctional Center in Lincoln are accused of bringing drugs into the facility and committing sexual misconduct involving three inmates at the women's prison.

A Logan County grand jury returned indictments against Ryan M. Motley, 31, of Chatham, charging him with unauthorized delivery of contraband into a penal institution by an employee; unauthorized possession of contraband in a prison; unlawful delivery of a controlled substance and custodial sexual misconduct.

Motley, who worked for the Illinois Department of Corrections for about two years, is accused of bringing alprazolam and clonazepam into the prison on Oct. 16, 2016, and giving it to a 27-year-old female inmate serving time for obstruction of justice.

The same inmate is named as a victim in sexual misconduct charges against Motley involving alleged sexual contact between June 1 and Oct. 16, 2016.

A 27-year-old inmate serving 10 years for aggravated driving under the influence also allegedly received drugs from Motley in October, according to charges.

Bond was set at $100,000, meaning Motley must post $10,000 to be released.

William J. Wolfsburger, 54, of Riverton faces five counts of custodial sexual misconduct involving a female inmate at the prison.

Charges state that the former employee had sexual contact with a 44-year-old woman serving 40 years for murder. The incidents allegedly occurred from June 1 to November 15, 2016.

Wolfsburger, who worked for IDOC for 21 years, was released after posting $7,500.

IDOC spokeswoman Nicole Wilson said the agency could not provide information about the alleged offenses.
Sexual assault  A Chenoa man faces predatory criminal sexual assault charges.

William K. Ellis, 44, is charged with sexually assaulting a minor girl with whom he was acquainted.

Ellis was jailed in lieu of posting $100,035.

Heroin  A 43-year-old Des Plaines man was indicted Friday by a federal grand jury on a charge of possession of heroin with intent to deliver the drug stemming from a McLean County traffic stop.

Arriba Lewis allegedly was found with about 200 grams of heroin during a traffic stop Jan. 12 on Interstate 55 in McLean County by Illinois State Police, according to a criminal complaint filed Jan. 13 in U.S. District Court, Central District of Illinois.

Lewis remains in federal custody pending an April 3 trial.

If convicted, Lewis faces five to 40 years in prison.
SPRINGFIELD  The budget impasse plaguing Illinois has disrupted the flow of money to public universities and community colleges, social service providers and even state agencies. But it keeps flowing into the states underfunded pension systems.

State law requires payments into the pension funds for teachers, university employees, state workers, lawmakers and judges regardless of whether theres a budget.

The state paid $7.6 billion into the five systems last fiscal year and is expected to pay $7.9 billion for the current fiscal year that ends June 30.

Despite the payments, the systems' unfunded liabilities keep rising, growing from $111 billion in fiscal year 2015 to nearly $130 billion last year, according to the General Assemblys Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability.

JP Aubry, associate director of state and local research at Boston Colleges Center for Retirement Research, said Illinois pension woes are the result of a long history of shorting payments to the systems.

Its not to say that the costs today arent extremely burdensome, Aubry said. They just didnt need to be.

While some blame benefit increases  like a 1990 law that created compounding cost-of-living raises for retirees  Aubry said his centers research suggests the state's benefits are on par with other states.

The Illinois comptrollers office reached the same conclusion in a 2011 report.

Illinois passed a law in 1994 that requires annual payments toward a target of 90 percent funding for all five systems by 2045. But the law kept payments low for the first 15 years before ramping them up, essentially leaving it to future leaders to figure out how to pay the bill.

During the tenure of disgraced former Democratic Gov. Rod Blagojevich, the state borrowed money to pay down unfunded liabilities and subsequently shorted later payments.

The economic downturn that followed the 2008 financial crisis wreaked havoc on the funds investments and subsequently led the systems to lower their assumed rates of return, both of which have contributed to the growth in unfunded liabilities.

In recent years, the state has contributed the amount required by law, but it is lower than what actuaries say the state should be paying.

Reining in costs

The state approved two major changes early this decade aimed at reining in pension costs.

The first enacted less generous retirement benefits for new workers after Jan. 1, 2011, a change that is expected to bring down costs in later decades as so-called Tier II workers replace older Tier I workers.

But critics are raising questions about whether newer employees, who pay the same share of their paychecks into the pension plans, but will receive significantly lower benefits in retirement, are being unfairly forced to subsidize more generous benefits for older workers.

The next attempt at reform, approved in the General Assembly and signed by then-Gov. Pat Quinn in December 2013, went further, raising the retirement age and ending compounding 3 percent cost-of-living raises for retirees.

But the state Supreme Court rejected the law in May 2015; the seven justices unanimously rued it violated the Illinois Constitution, which says that pension benefits for existing workers shall not be diminished or impaired.

Since then, pension reform has taken a backseat to the larger budget standoff.

Still, the Senates current wide-ranging proposal to end the impasse includes a pension reform plan long backed by Senate President John Cullerton, D-Chicago.

The proposal, which would apply to public school teachers, state university employees and members of the General Assembly, would give Tier I employees a choice between counting future raises toward their pensions, or receiving compounding cost-of-living raises in retirement.

The pension plan for employees at state agencies isnt included because of an ongoing contract feud between Gov. Bruce Rauners administration and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Council 31.

Supporters argue the Senate plan, which they say could save up to $1 billion annually, would pass constitutional muster because workers would be given a choice. Those who choose to count raises toward their pensions and forgo the compounding raises in retirement also would receive lump-sum refunds worth 10 percent of their previous pension contributions and a 10 percent reduction in future payments.

Opponents disagree.

Chicago attorney John Fitzgerald, who represented retired teachers who sued to overturn the 2013 law, said the Senate plan would force workers to make a choice that cuts their benefits.

Keeping what they currently have is not on the menu, and the only two items on the menu reduce peoples pension benefits, Fitzgerald said. And that, in my view, is unconstitutional for the same reasons why (the previous law) was unconstitutional.
It's been a little while since someone mentioned that they came across a goat head (or bag of headless goats) in a park somewhere in the city, although someone did notice a stitched up cow tongue nailed to a tree in Bed-Stuy a few months ago. But now just a little while before the two year anniversary of a goat head spotting in Dr. Ronald McNair Park, a tipster sent us a picture of another goat head laid out in almost the same way.

A tipster sent us the above photo of a goat head laid out on a plate, which he said he came across on Friday. The tipster told us that he's "been seeing similar things for a few years" in the park.

As we mentioned a few years ago, when someone found a goat head in Prospect Park, the heads are assumed to be associated with Santeria, particularly as part of ritual sacrifice to celebrate events like a new birth, a marriage or to commemorate a death. The practice is constitutional, but you're also not supposed to just leave your goat heads lying around in the park.
My partner and I became Bloomington residents in August. When I heard that the Bloomington Police Department wanted to add a substation on the west side, I became concerned because I could not see how BPD could justify needing an off-campus, residential location.

It recalled to me the Chicago Police Department Homan Square black site condemned by the United Nations in 2015 as a torture center hidden in plain sight. Alderman Lower expressed that the community center would only be used for officers to do paperwork. He added that it wouldnt increase the policing budget, but I havent reason to believe that.

Will the location be outfitted with security cameras? Will individuals be held or processed there? If I go to the regular station, is it possible that my processing materials could be off-site, therefore making it harder to get a speedy resolution? There can only be two conclusions: either a budgetary increase, or expected violations of our Fourth, Fifth and Sixth Amendment rights  those that protect you from unreasonable state interference in our promised freedom.

With our countrys legacy of law enforcement infiltration, and current patterns of dangerous incursion on (not exclusively, but specifically) black bodies, I am very concerned about the action taken by Bloomington City Council this week. My partner and I will be voting accordingly on April 4, and reconsidering our plans to buy property here if we dont start seeing structural changes that respect the Bloomington citizens who are most vulnerable.

Adam Heenan, Bloomington
Weve reached that time of year when Old Man Winter can play tricks on us. One day, its warm enough to take down those now-damaged exterior Christmas decorations you wish you had attacked on a surprisingly mild day earlier in the month. The next day, we might get pounded with enough snow, ice and/or cold temperatures to close schools and make life difficult.

At the risk of further confirming the senior status Ive achieved, let me take you back 50 years ago this week.

On Jan. 24, 1967, the local temperature reached 66 degrees. The next day, a Wednesday, weather forecasters were predicting one-quarter to one-half inch of rain or snow in the latter part of the week.

Instead, the northern half of Illinois was paralyzed with the biggest snowstorm in a generation. Chicago got the worst of it: 23 inches in 24 hours. We got just over a third as much, but it wasnt so good around here either.

Roads and streets became massive parking lots as vehicles stalled in mounds of snow. Foot travel was pretty much the only  albeit dangerous way to get around. Gale-force winds took down trees that, in turn, ripped apart power lines and telephone poles. The temperature dropped toward zero. Schools and businesses closed.

And I was returning from Scandinavia. Really.

Illinois Wesleyan, where I was somehow admitted as a student, had initiated a new academic calendar that included a short term  essentially reserving the month of January when students would take a single course, opening the door to off-campus experiences, too.

The political science departments plan to guide students to the Middle East was scuttled when tensions between Israel and its neighbors heightened (ultimately resulting in the Six-Day War a few months later). I wasn't interested in the Middle East seminar. But when IWU quickly substituted three weeks in Scandinavia, I was all over it.

Why Scandinavia in the middle of winter? I was asked. Good question. Might have had something to do with a lovely Danish girl I had met when she was a foreign exchange student in El Paso.

It was a good trip. Yes, it was a little cold and sometimes snowy. But the weather news was nothing like what greeted us when we landed in New York on the first leg of our trip home.

All flights to Chicago are canceled. Major blizzard there.

We spent the night near the airport, got a flight to St. Louis the next day, and on Saturday boarded a northbound train to Bloomington. It was a daylight trip, but the only thing we saw was towering snowbanks alongside the tracks. When we reached the old train station on Bloomingtons west side, I remember thinking Oslo, Norway had nothing on Central Illinois when it came to winter. A slow taxi ride got us back to campus.

Pantagraph editorial writers philosophized about the harsh, pleasant messages of a storm. Most people are concerned about their neighbors. Thousands of people grimly realize that their services are surplus when just important things must get done. And Radio  both commercial and amateur  is a vital factor in our communications network.

It was true. During the storm, WJBC (my eventual employer) firmly established itself as a community resource. With no cellphones, and many landlines down, stranded motorists were using the airwaves to let relatives know they were safe and where they were. Callers offered shelter to people who were stranded. There was even an answer for the guy who called up to ask whether liquor stores were open.

Today, there are multiple communication avenues. Technology also has made possible much more accurate weather forecasts. Even so, we remain at Mother Natures mercy and highly dependent on those we entrust with the task of doing whats necessary in emergency situations.
SPRINGFIELD  Gov. Bruce Rauners effort to shake up Springfield has sent shock waves to every corner of the state with the first-term Republican governor and the Democratic-controlled General Assembly failing to reach a comprehensive budget agreement during his first two years in office.

While Illinois financial problems predate Rauner, his clash with Democratic legislative leaders  most notably longtime Democratic House Speaker Michael Madigan  has led to unprecedented uncertainty.

The state went the entire last fiscal year without a complete budget, leaving most spending dictated by court orders and laws that require funding for certain expenses, such as pension and debt payments.

But in other areas, including higher education, social services and state agency operations, the flow of revenue was cut off for most or all of the year.

That resulted in layoffs of hundreds of employees at public universities, community colleges and agencies that provide mental health treatment, care for the elderly and other social services. By one estimate, about one million people have lost services as a result of the ongoing standoff.

A six-month stopgap spending plan approved in late June provided a cash infusion, but it expired Dec. 31, resurrecting the uncertainty of the previous year.

When it comes to Illinois budget stalemate, theres no comparison that we can point to, said Arturo Perez, a fiscal analyst for the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Since taking office, Rauner has insisted that items on his pro-business, union-weakening agenda be included in any comprehensive budget deal if that deal includes tax increases that nearly everyone now acknowledges are needed to begin addressing the states long-term deficits.

Many Democrats, meanwhile, argue that some of Rauner's policy priorities, such as stricter workers compensation laws and changes to collective bargaining rights for public employees, are a vigorous denunciation of their partys core values.

Were going through a process which is completely abnormal, said Kent Redfield, an emeritus political science professor at the University of Illinois Springfield and a longtime observer of state government. And, ultimately, its not sustainable.

Deep roots

Rauner frequently notes that Illinois financial problems stretch back decades.

A 2012 report from the State Budget Crisis Task Force that examined the financial problems of several struggling states noted that Illinois has long used budgetary gimmicks, such as delaying payments to vendors and borrowing to cover pension payments, to make unbalanced budgets appear balanced on paper.

Illinois did all this without any sort of long-term financial plan to restore balance, and without reserves, the report notes. Illinois has been doing backflips on a high wire, without a net.

The result is a backlog of unpaid bills totaling almost $11 billion and unfunded pension liabilities nearing $130 billion.

In a recent report for the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, economist Thomas Walstrum notes that state and local governments in Illinois collectively have been spending more money than they bring in for nearly three decades.

And while the typical U.S. state has also generally spent more than it has collected, Illinois overspending has outpaced the national average since the mid-1990s, primarily through pension spending, Walstrum writes.

Prior to Rauners tenure, the Democratic-controlled General Assembly and then-Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn took steps to address some of the problems.

During the January 2011 lame-duck session, lawmakers pushed through temporary increases in the states personal and corporate income tax rates, raising the former to 5 percent (from 3 percent), and the latter to 7 percent (from 4.8 percent).

Nearly three years later, lawmakers approved and Quinn signed a pension reform law that reduced retirement benefits.

But those savings never materialized because in May 2015, the state Supreme Court tossed out the law, ruling it violated a clause of the Illinois Constitution that says pension benefits for current and retired workers shall not be diminished or impaired.

By the previous fall, a debate was raging in the Quinn-Rauner gubernatorial race about whether the temporary tax increase, which was set to start rolling back Jan. 1, 2015, should be made permanent or allowed to expire.

While the increase was in place, the states backlog of unpaid bills dropped from $8.5 billion in January 2011 to slightly less than $6 billion in January 2015, the month Rauner took office. It continued dropping to a low of just under $3.5 billion in July 2015 before beginning to climb again.

But Rauner campaigned against extending the tax increase without also enacting other reforms he contends will jump start Illinois economy.

Democrats didnt have the votes to do it alone, so tax rates were allowed to roll back to 3.75 percent for individuals and 5.25 percent for corporations.

Proposed solutions

The most recent round of talks among Illinois top leaders broke down in December, with Rauner and Madigan pointing fingers  again  at each other.

Afterward, Senate President John Cullerton and Senate Minority Leader Christine Radogno hashed out a bipartisan "grand bargain," a massive package of legislation aimed at bringing the standoff to an end.

Among the various proposals are permanent increases in the personal income tax rate from 3.75 percent to 4.99 percent, and the corporate rate from 5.25 percent to 7 percent. New casinos and pension reforms are on the list.

A proposed penny-per-ounce tax on sugar-sweetened beverages has been scrapped, but a new business opportunity tax and taxes on some services, including dry cleaning and storage unit rentals, have been added.

The package also includes several provisions to satisfy Republicans, including a two-year freeze on local property taxes and workers compensation reforms.

Passing the deal will be far from easy, but it has been greeted with a sense of optimism thats been rare in Springfield of late.

Dan Lesser, a coordinator of the statewide Responsible Budget Coalition, said the group has "a shared interest in the state having sufficient revenue to make smart investments and to stop making cuts and to repair some of the damage thats been done."

Even Fitch Ratings, which downgraded the states credit rating in October 2015 as a result of the impasse, sounded a positive, albeit cautious, tone.

These proposals, if they proceed through the full legislature and are signed by the governor, have the potential to stabilize the states credit rating, the ratings agency said in a Jan. 11 statement.

With some lawmakers, particularly Republicans, wanting more time to consider the package, Senate leaders held off a vote last week, but told senators to be ready when they return to Springfield Feb. 7.

Rauner said he finds the recent Senate developments encouraging, though hes withholding judgement on the specifics.

I applaud them, Rauner said in an interview with the Lee Springfield Bureau. Theyre dealing with issues. Theyre talking about term limits. Theyre talking about property tax relief. Theyre talking about regulatory reform. This is great. This is a step in the right direction.

Madigan is taking a wait-and-see approach, noting that many of the items in the proposal have been discussed and debated before.

Theyre going to get due consideration in the House, he told the bureau.

Meanwhile, hes proposed his own agenda that includes a 50 percent reduction in the corporate income tax and a tax surcharge on personal income of more than $1 million to fund education.

No quick fix

Even if the Senate package or something similar is approved, it would only be a step toward improving the states long-term financial outlook.

Redfield said it's a good start.

It would  allow us to kind of stabilize the situation, but that set of bills in no way is a fix, he said.

In the long run, the state will need a revenue structure that better aligns with the modern economy, such as a sales tax that includes more services, and a stronger business climate, he said.

A recent study from the Fiscal Futures Project at the University of Illinois helps put the daunting task in perspective.

With a combination of higher income tax rates, a broader income and sales tax base, increased economic growth and 2 percent annual reductions in discretionary state spending, it would take a decade to bring Illinois budget into line, according to the analysis.

We should think about this as a multiyear process, said David Merriman, one of the authors. Its going to require significant revenue increases and restraint on spending  over a long period of time.  If we show the political backbone to do that and show a realistic long-term plan  that will strengthen the economy immensely.
Editors' note: The "State of the Standoff" series continues Wednesday with a look at how social service agencies are coping as access to state funds dries up, and an examination of how the state invests its money and the debts that , and continue to pile up.

The series is being published by The Pantagraph and sister papers in Illinois and looks at those most affected by the failure of state leaders and lawmakers to compromise on a comprehensive state budget.

On Thursday, the series examines how Illinois is not living up to its obligation to fund Illinois colleges and universities or school districts. Instead, the burden is being shifted to local property taxes and rising tuition.

Also, at pantagraph.com, you'll find a slideshow featuring comments from Gov. Bruce Rauner and House Speaker Mike Madigan, and a timeline of the standoff.
A mother from Virginia is furious over her son's history class. The boy and the rest of his African-American classmates, who are sixth graders attending Shelburne Middle School, were told to act like slaves in a skit by their teacher.

Mom Tamika Derozen learned of the incident from her son. The students were studying about the Louisiana Purchase and the teacher, who has not been identified, wanted them to do participate in a skit.

But when the teacher told all the students who are African-American to "pick up cotton and dig up coal" for the skit, some of the kids refused. Derozen's son told his mother that he also wanted to walk out of class but he was afraid he would get in trouble for it, WHSV reports.

The teacher then asked the Caucasian students in her class to pretend that they were the noblemen. "Why would she not have included any student of any race to just go up in front of the class and play pretend?" Derozen wondered.

Derozen complained to the school's principal about the teacher. The principal apologized and talked to the concerned educator but the offense didn't stop there.

The teacher, who apparently wanted to emphasize on slave rebellion, made her class watch clips from the TV series "Roots" to show why she was right to make the African-American students be the workers in her skit.

"You better fit the role as a slave," the teacher said. "Roots" is an award-winning miniseries about the history of American slavery.

The mom was supposed to discuss with the teacher but after learning of the next incident, she decided to report what happened to the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). She also sought the support of the kids' other parents in her complaint.

Staunton City School Board superintendent Linda G. Reviea released a statement on its official site, citing they will be doing an investigation. "If such behavior occurred, it is grossly inappropriate, insensitive and contradictory to the values of our school division and will not be tolerated," Reviea said.
Things have finally settled between Uma Thurman and Arpad Busson. The former couple went through a bitter custody battle for 4-year-old daughter Luna but an agreement has been reached Friday.

Thurman will have primary custody of their little girl while Busson has monthly visitations. The exes both agreed to the terms of a 39-page deal that Justice Matthew Cooper said was a "strict roadmap" on how the parents should be sharing their responsibilities for Luna.

"At this point, Luna has all the advantages in life. She has two parents who love her, two parents who amply provide for her," the judge said, Page Six reports. The judge also advised the parents to set aside their anger towards each other so that they can co-parent well.

After the court hearing, Thurman told reporters that she was happy to finally get closure on the custody battle. Busson was in his London home that day but he has signed the agreement before he left.

According to New York Daily News, Busson was OK with Thurman having primary custody especially since the child has been living with her mother since her birth. The father, however, was seeking to get reliable access to his child with regular visits and some weekends together. He fought for more time with his daughter in the custody battle.

A psychologist who testified for the court said Thurman and Busson can never be in the same room together and the hostile relationship would be bad for Luna. In the custody trial, which took at least eight days, both parties threw accusations at each other about drug abuse or sleeping with prostitutes.

Thurman and Busson were in an on-and-off relationship from 2007 to 2014. They were engaged two times but did not end up walking down the aisle. Thurman gave birth to Luna in 2012 and has two teenage kids with ex-husband Ethan Hawke who are also living with her.
Two Florida students were taken in by authorities after their plan to commit a school shooting was foiled by whistleblowers. The whistleblowers alerted police about the planned Friday massacre on Tuesday.

The teens were said to be two boys in the ages of 13 and 14. According to the whistleblowers, the two male students gave other people a heads up regarding their plan to shoot people at Villages Charter Middle School. They told the other students that they should wear white shirts and say the safety word "Eugene" so they will not get shot.

Sumter County Sheriff's Office revealed the 13-year-old suspect was apprehended by authorities after he attempted to get to school on Wednesday. The sheriff's office added in a statement, "At the time, he acknowledged conversations involving the plot and referenced the mass shootings at Columbine High School." The 13-year-old went on to say a 14-year-old student was involved in the plan and that other suspect was located at the school, ABC News reported.

The 13-year-old also told authorities that they planned an attack that included a signal to start firing. The signal is said to be a dropped pencil and the teens said they planned to start shooting at the gym.

There were no weapons found on either of the suspects. Their bags and lockers were also searched. Upon further investigation, firearms were found in the home of the 13-year-old in Fruitland Park as well as the Wildwood home of the 14-year-old. One of the weapons found is an AR-15 assault rifle while the details of the other weapons found were not released to the public yet, NBC News reported.

The 13-year-old told investigators he had been depressed and was the one who joked about the shooting. He also told the investigator he just wants to die but the circumstances surrounding the teen's depression was not revealed.

It remains unclear how many whistleblowers alerted the police but Sumter County Sheriff's Office said they are grateful for those students who had the courage to talk to authorities about the matter. It was also not stated how these whistleblowers are related to the suspects.

Both the unidentified students were charged with conspiracy to commit murder. They remain at the Department of Juvenile Justice.
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A man at an Elmhurst subway station was fatally struck by an arriving train last night. The victim may have leaned forward over the platform edge as the train pulled in.

The incident occurred around 7:30 p.m. at the Grand Avenue-Newtown stop. Sources told NBC New York that "the man may have been intoxicated when he leaned or fell in front of the oncoming train."

The impact of the northbound M train apparently "wedged him between the train and the platform," according to the Daily News.



(BMR Breaking News)

The News adds that the police spoke with the victim's "visibly intoxicated" friend, who said, "I didn't do nothing wrong. He was my friend."
Earlier this week Patently Apple posted a report titled "Hugo Barra Set to Lead Facebook's Virtual Reality Business." Just as Barra gets started there's a major shadow being cast against Oculus over alleged stolen source code by famed game developer John Carmack who admitted under oath to downloading the code before leaving id Software for a position at Oculus. An interesting legal case came to light yesterday covering Facebook's Oculus. The Attorneys for video game publisher ZeniMax asked a Dallas federal jury to give it $4 billion during closing arguments Thursday in its case claiming Facebook's virtual reality subsidiary stole its headset technology.

The request doubles the $2 billion the Rockville, Md.-based company originally asked for. ZeniMax and subsidiary id Software, of Richardson, Texas, sued Oculus VR and founder Palmer Luckey in May 2013, two months after Facebook bought Oculus for $2 billion.

ZeniMax claims Oculus and Luckey violated a nondisclosure agreement in the creation of the Oculus Rift virtual-reality headset and that Luckey relied on the help of id Software employees during Rift's development.

ZeniMax's attorney Tony Sammi, with Skadden Arps in New York, told jurors that Palmer Luckey was only a hobbyist and not a software expert. He said id Software co-founder John Carmack, who conversed with Luckey during development, was vital to what makes Rift a desirable virtual reality experience.

Carmack is best known as lead programmer of id Software's hit first-person shooter games Wolfenstein 3D, Doom and Quake. In 2013, he became chief technology officer at Oculus.

Sammi told jurors the final functionality of Oculus' code came from Carmack and ZeniMax's Rage VR testbed and Doom 3 BFG Edition, in violation of Luckey's nondisclosure agreement. He asked for $2 billion in compensatory damages and $2 million in punitive damages, citing Facebook's high net worth.

During a combative direct examination last week, Luckey testified that he did not violate the nondisclosure agreement. He said that when he demonstrated his headset to investors in 2014, he executed the plaintiffs' code through the headset but did not take the source code itself.

Defense attorney Beth Wilkinson, with Wilkinson Walsh in Washington, Wilkinson cited testimony by a forensics expert that there was no evidence of copying in Oculus' code, as well as testimony by Carmack that Oculus never received actual source code for either the Rage VR testbed or Doom 3 BFG Edition.

The jury is expected to deliberate for several days.

Polygon reported on parts of this case earlier this week by noting that "If ZeniMax wins its case against Facebook and Oculus, the company could seek an injunction against the Oculus Rift headset and potentially the Samsung Gear VR headset, preventing the sale of the devices and delivering a devastating blow to the still emerging retail VR industry."

Joe Ahmad, a founding partner at Houston law firm Ahmad, Zavitsanos, Anaipakos, Alavi & Mensing P.C. told Polygon that "Injunctions are often granted to a plaintiff that proves misappropriation of trade secrets because the theories of damages are difficult to show and don't capture the harm, particularly if the device with the misappropriated trade secrets is still being sold. So the court could stop the device from being sold (assuming plaintiff proves misappropriation) to stop the harm."

While Ahmad declined to say how strong a case he thinks ZeniMax has, he did say that it wasn't good that Carmack downloaded information, including some ZeniMax code, on his last day, something Carmack confirmed during testimony last week. You could read more about this case here.

If ZeniMax wins their case next week then it'll certainly be a big black eye for Oculus and its owner Facebook.





Click here for more about ZeniMax Media Games

About Making Comments on our Site: Patently Apple reserves the right to post, dismiss or edit any comments. Those using abusive language or behavior will result in being blacklisted on Disqus.
Patna: It was a busy day for Chief Minister Nitish Kumar who, after vowing in the past to go solo on the path of development because of the ''anti-Bihar government'' at the Center, decided to seek the help of the Center after all realizing it was impossible for the state to do everything on its own.

Kumar, who is justifiably angry about the non-inclusion of any city in Bihar, including state capital Patna, in the recently released list of cities to be developed as ''smart cities'', on Thursday met with Union Urban Development Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader M. Venkaiah Naidu to seek inclusion of Patna in the smart city list.

The Chief Minister presented his case for Patna explaining why it deserved to be included in the list of smart cities. He also asked for increase in central funding by Rs. 4,000 per indoor toilet being built under the Swachcha Bharat Abhiyan.

To deal with the rising extremist activities in Bihar, Kumar sought help from the Home Minister Rajnath Singh. He also raised the issue of modernizing the police department and the disaster management in order to deal with both man-made and natural calamities.

Kumar, anticipating serious financial crunch in the state in the aftermath of full implementation of prohibition in Bihar, also sought release of pension money from Jharkhand to the tune of Rs. 2,584 crore that, he said, had not been paid since 2000.

"Jharkhand is not paying the outstanding dues in spite of the Center''s direction to the state to clear the outstanding dues and we seek the intervention of the Home Ministry on this issue," he told Singh.

Continuing to lobby for more funding for Bihar that stands to lose in excess of Rs. 4,000 crore per annum due to the hastily imposed prohibition policy by the Lalu-Nitish-Congress government, Kumar also held meeting with Finance Minister Arun Jaitley asking him to release the Rs. 1.25 lakh crore special package to Bihar that was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the place of Special Status.

Interestingly, Kumar, in what many say in his supreme arrogance, had rejected the Rs. 1.25 lakh crore special package saying there was nothing new in the offer and he would rather develop Bihar without the help of the Center than agree to the above package.
Patna: Patna Women''s College whose students were once known for their pride and loyalty for the college that emanated a sense of ''exclusiveness'' from other colleges in Patna University is beginning to look more and more like the rest of the pack as its students, egged by political outfits, continued to protest against the college administration for failing to protect the interest of the students.

On Friday, students with their face covered to maintain anonymity, marched to the Chief Minister residence where they protested for more than three hours to press for their demands.

Supported by the All India Students'' Federation (AISF), a group of students sat on a dharna outside the Chief Minister''s residence on 1 Anne Marg to seek relief from the ''tyranny'' of the college Principal who, they said, was being vindictive and trying to settle score for previous protests in the college.

The protestors said that they were being singled out by the Principal who was deliberately trying to destroy their future by preventing them from appearing in exams on cooked up charges.

"Students who have 60 percent marks are being allowed to appear in the test but those of us who have higher marks than 60% are being stopped from appearing in the exam," complained the protestors.

Following the intervention of Sadar SDO Reyaz Ahmed Khan who assured them that he would make sure the Chief Minister was aware of their problems; the protestors dispersed but not before the SDO ordered lodging of FIR against some students for protesting in a protected zone.
Patna: Following a domestic dispute, a 24-year old woman in Patna killed herself by hanging from the ceiling fan on Saturday, officials said.

Vandana, a native of Ghaziabad in Uttar Pradesh, was found by her in-laws hanging from the ceiling fan at their house in Punaichak. Attempts to revive her proved to be futile, family members said.

As reported, Vandana and Amit Kumar of Patna had met in Ghaziabad while working in the same company. The two, against the wishes of their family members, got married about six months ago in a Ghaziabad court.

The two had come to Patna to celebrate the birthday of Amit on January 30. Amit, however, went back to Ghaziabad while leaving his wife in Patna with his family members.

On Saturday afternoon, Vandana and her in-laws had some verbal row after which Vandana locked herself in a room and hung herself from the ceiling fan.

No suicide note was found from the scene of the gruesome incident.

Officials said Ravindra Kumar, the father of the victim, was notified and he was on his way to claim the body.

Authorities are investigating the case.
Patna: As has been the case in the last half-a-dozen or so years, the speech by the Governor of Bihar at Patna's Gandhi Maidan on India's Republic Day lacked punch or even sincerity as Governor Ram Nath Kovind read the talking points prepared by the Nitish administration that put Bihar in positive lights while portraying Chief Minister Nitish Kumar as 'an agent of change'.

{gallery}newsimages2017/jan/012717_2{/gallery}Borrowing his line from his last year's speech, Governor Kovind, after unfurling the Indian Tricolor at the Gandhi Maidan to mark the 67th Republic Day of the nation, said that there was no law and order problem in the state as the Nitish government was working tirelessly to keep Bihar safe and secured from any type of communal disturbance.

"The rule of law, coupled by communal harmony, has turned Bihar into the fastest growing state in the nation with its registered growth of 17 percent," the Governor said after taking the salute from the Indian Armed Forces including the Central Reserve Protection Force (CRPF), Bihar Military Police (BMP), Special Task Force (STF), Home Guard, District Armed Police (DAP), and the three divisions of the National Cadet Core (NCC).

This administration is committed to enforce good governance while making sure no single group or community slipped through the cracks and felt ignored, he said adding development could be seen in each area with highest priority given to maintain law and order in the state.

"Several steps have also been taken to strength the police machinery," he said.

The Governor also praised the Nitish administration for putting numerous measures in place to check corruption in the government.

"Actions have been taken against those who have been found to be indulging in corrupt practices. To empower the citizens of Bihar, the government has set up mechanism to listen to their complaints," Mr. Kovind said.

Earlier, the Chief Minister hoisted the national flag at his residence on 1 Anne Marg where he welcomed school girls and shared sweets with them.

After the Gandhi Maidan ceremony, Kumar visited a dalit basti in Phulwarisharif where he took part in the Independence Day celebration.
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US Lawmakers Promise Iranian Opposition Group Tougher Action Against Iran

01/28/17

By Michael Lipin and Shahla Arasteh, VOA

WASHINGTON - A bi-partisan group of U.S. lawmakers has told an Iranian opposition group that it will press for tougher U.S. action against Iran's Islamist rulers, as Tehran awaits word on whether President Donald Trump will follow through on campaign pledges to take a similarly tough stance.



Payvand.com Note: The European Union, Canada and the United States formerly listed The People's Mujahedin of Iran (MEK) as a terrorist organization, but this designation has since been lifted, first by the Council of the European Union in January 26, 2009, then by a decision by U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton on September 21, 2012 and lastly by a decision by the Canadian government on December 20, 2012.

(source: wikipedia)



The half-dozen Republican and Democratic House members made the pledges to the Organization of Iranian-American Communities (OIAC) on Tuesday. OIAC, which is allied to exiled Iranian dissident movement Mujahedin-e Khalq or MEK, had invited the lawmakers to speak at a gathering in Washington's Rayburn House Office Building, as part of the group's years-long efforts to lobby Congress.

OIAC says it advocates for a "democratic, secular and non-nuclear government" in Iran. MEK, which leads the France-based National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), seeks to "overthrow" what it calls the "religious dictatorship" ruling Iran. In a statement to the gathering, OIAC political director Majid Sadeghpour said his group looks forward to working with President Trump and Congress to shape a "successful policy" toward Iran, which he called "arguably the greatest threat to U.S. national security."

Trump has yet to outline his Iran policy since taking office on January 20. But as a candidate, he strongly criticized then-President Barack Obama for joining world powers in reaching a nuclear deal with Iran a deal in which Tehran agreed to stop activities that Western powers feared could be used to develop nuclear weapons, in return for relief from international sanctions. Trump said the 2015 agreement would not work, calling it a "disaster" and pledging to either dismantle or renegotiate it.

Speaking to the OIAC gathering, Republican Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen called for expanding an existing set of U.S. sanctions against Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) sanctions that are not part of the nuclear deal. "It is time that we put the tools that we have created to use, broadening our sanctions so that they include IRGC-controlled businesses and subsidiaries," Ros-Lehtinen said. "We must target the (Iranian) regime at every turn, not only enforcing the sanctions that have been too long neglected, but expanding their scope whenever and wherever possible."

As part of the nuclear deal's sanctions relief, Iran has been able to sign agreements to buy Western passenger planes for its aging commercial airline industry. Those agreements include state-run Iran Air's $16 billion purchase of 80 aircraft from U.S. plane-maker Boeing a deal announced in December.

Democratic Congressman Brad Sherman has co-sponsored new legislation that could complicate Iran Air's efforts to secure the Boeing aircraft. The bill would require the Trump administration to report on any signs of Iran using commercial aircraft for "illicit military or other activities" violating the sanctions relief.

In an interview with VOA on the sidelines of the OIAC gathering, Sherman accused Iran of using "supposedly civilian aircraft" to support war crimes in Syria's conflict an accusation Tehran has denied.

"We need an ironclad system that makes sure (any newly-acquired planes with American technology) are not used for military or terrorist purposes (by Iran)," Sherman said. He also said U.S. banks should not loan Iran any money to pay for new planes, citing the billions of dollars of sanctions relief it already has received.

Republican Congressman Dana Rohrabacher told the OIAC gathering that he believes Washington should intensify political pressure against Iran's government.

"One strategy is to help pro-democracy movements who would replace the mullahs," Rohrabacher said. He also called for holding Iranian leaders accountable for human rights violations and encouraging ethnic minorities to pursue autonomy.

"I'm willing to help the Azeris, Baluch and Kurds, who are not part of the Persian majority, to create a situation where you have autonomous regions similar to the states of the United States, so that those people's rights will feel secure as well," he said.

In separate remarks to OIAC members, Democratic Congressman Eliot Engel said he wants to focus on helping one Iranian opposition group in particular MEK, which completed a two-year-long process of relocating about 3,000 of its Iraq-based exiles to Albania last September.

The exiles had been based in Camp Ashraf in eastern Iraq from the 1980s until 2012, when the Iraqi government moved them to Camp Liberty, a former U.S. military base near Baghdad. The exiles sought international help to leave Iraq as they faced a series of deadly attacks after 2009, when U.S. forces who had occupied the country since a 2003 invasion transferred Camp Ashraf to Iraqi authorities who labeled them a terrorist group. MEK members for years have demanded that the Iraqi government compensate them for property left behind in the two camps.

Eliot said the MEK group has $50 million in assets at Camp Liberty and $500 million at Camp Ashraf.

"We want the Iraqi government to sell these properties and return the money to MEK members. It's very important," he told the gathering. "As all of their expenses in Albania are paid by MEK, they need their money to be returned as soon as possible. So I urge Iraq, which the United States has helped for so many years, to honor its commitment to return the money to MEK."

It is not clear whether or when Iraq will complete that process.

Some U.S. lawmakers have long praised MEK for sharing information with the United States about clandestine Iranian nuclear operations. Iran has long denied seeking nuclear weapons.

VOA's Persian service contributed to this report.



About the author: Michael Lipin covers international news for VOA on the web, radio and TV, specializing in the Middle East and East Asia Pacific. Follow him on Twitter @Michael_Lipin

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Iran's President Rouhani: Today, No Time of Building Walls Between Nations

01/28/17

Source: Press TV

President Hassan Rouhani of Iran says today is not the age of building walls between countries. "Today is not the time of wall-raising between nations. Have they forgotten that the Berlin Wall collapsed years ago?" President Rouhani said in an apparent reference to US government officials, who have been planning to build a wall on the Mexican border. "[Even] if there is a wall between nations, it has to be removed," the Iranian chief executive said.



Iranian President Hassan Rouhani

17th WFTGA Convention in Tehran, January 28, 2017.

(photo by Islamic Republic News Agency)





President Rouhani was speaking during the 17th World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations Convention in the capital, Tehran, on Saturday. Figures from some 40 countries have gathered for the conference.

"Today's world is not a world where one can create distances between the nations and peoples of different territories. Today is a day of neighborhood. We have become neighbors in cultural, scientific, and civilizational terms, and also, the world of communications and communications technology have shrunk distances," President Rouhani said. "No one can fight globalization today."





cartoon by Alireza Pakdel, Iranian daily Ghanoon





'A country of peace'

The Iranian president said Iran has never invaded other countries over the past centuries and the Iranian people have never been known for racism.

"In our country," the president said, "different religions, ethnicities, and cultures have had peaceful coexistence."





Attendees are seen during the 17th WFTGA convention in Tehran

(photo by Islamic Republic News Agency)



Referring to the scourge of terrorism in the region, Rouhani said it was doing irreversible damage to both humanity and the relics of ancient civilization.



He said Iran provided assistance to Iraq and Syria to help them eradicate terrorism and would support whichever nation that asked for its assistance in the face of the scourge.



Elsewhere in his remarks, the Iranian president also said that Iran has witnessed a big rise in the number of the tourists visiting it since historic diplomatic efforts led to the conclusion of a nuclear agreement between the Islamic Republic and world powers in 2015.
Trump Issues Sweeping Anti-Immigration Orders Barring Syrians, Muslims

01/28/17

Source: RFE/RL

U.S. President Donald Trump has issued orders indefinitely barring Syrian refugees from the United States and temporarily suspending visits from a wide swathe of other Muslim countries.





The Visa Wall

(source: Iranian daily Ghanoon)



Vowing to protect the country from "foreign terrorists," Trump on January 27 ordered the suspension of all immigration from seven predominantly Muslim countries for 90 days until a rigorous new "extreme vetting" process is put in place.



The White House said the countries targeted were Syria, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen.



Trump also decreed a four-month suspension of the U.S. refugee program for countries outside Syria, an order affecting refugees from Iraq, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. And he cut in half to 50,000 the number of refugees the United States will accept from around the world this year.



A major exception to the refugee bans was for Syrian Christians, who Trump said were persecuted in their homeland.





cartoon by Jalal Pirmarzabad, Iranian daily Shargh



"I'm establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America. Don't want them here," Trump said as he unveiled the orders at the Pentagon.



"We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people."



Civil rights groups condemned the measures as discriminatory and unconstitutional for targeting a specific religion.



They said the moves, which Trump had promised during his campaign, would strand refugees in dangerous places and backfire by feeding hatred toward the United States in the Muslim world and tarnishing its reputation as a land welcoming of immigrants and the world's "poor and huddled masses."



"'Extreme vetting' is just a euphemism for discriminating against Muslims," said Anthony Romero, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union.



Ahmed Rehab of the Council on American-Islamic Relations said his group would fight the orders "tooth and nail" in court.



"It is targeting people based on their faith and national origin, and not on their character or their criminality," he told AFP.



Immigration attorneys said the orders were having an immediate chaotic impact on people planning to visit the United States or arranging for relatives in one of the targeted countries to join them in the United States.





cartoon by Alireza Pakdel, Iranian daily Ghanoon



Even before Trump's announcement, prominent people from the targeted regions said they would boycott travel to the United States in protest. An Iranian actress in a film nominated for an Academy Award this year said she would boycott the Los Angeles awards ceremony.



An Iraqi-Kurdish filmmaker, Hussein Hassan, also scrapped plans to attend the U.S. premiere of his critically acclaimed film on Iraq's embattled Yazidi minority, The Dark Wind, scheduled for March.



James Zogby, president of the Arab American Institute, told AP that the orders were "wrongheaded and dangerous in terms of the Middle East."



Iranian-Americans point out that not a single terrorist incident in the United States has involved Iranians, while many of the hijackers involved in the September 11, 2001, attacks in New York and Washington were from Saudi Arabia, which is not on the list of targeted countries.



Moreover, Iran, like the United States and Iraq, has sent troops to battle Islamic State (IS) militants in Iraq and Syria, the group that has inspired the most recent attacks by its followers in the United States.



Abbas al-Bayati, an Iraqi member of parliament, said the curbs were sending the wrong message to Iraqis at a time when Washington is counting on Iraqi forces to battle IS militants in their stronghold of Mosul.



Fellow Iraqi lawmaker Majid Chenkali was less diplomatic, saying Iraq should respond in kind and not allow Americans into Iraq.



"It should be an eye for an eye," he told AP.



With reporting by AP, AFP, and Reuters


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Police Thursday, Jan. 26, arrested a Fullerton man after he allegedly sexually assaulted a 14-year-old Fontana girl with whom he had allegedly been conversing via social media and other means, police say.

Benny Kim, 20, was arrested on suspicion of sex with a minor and related charges, according to San Bernardino County sheriffs booking records. He was booked at West Valley Detention Center where his bail was set at $100,000.

According to a Fontana police news release, a joint investigation between the departments Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and Fontana Unified School District police allegedly revealed that Kim had been conversing with the teen over social media sites, in texts and on the phone.

Investigators allege Kim sent pornographic images of himself to the child and instructed her to send him videos/images of her completing various sexual acts, the news release states.

Police took Kim into custody Thursday morning while he was visiting Fontana. They allege he had sexually assaulted the girl and they found evidence relating to various criminal charges, the news release states.
A Florida man learned his fate Friday, Jan. 27 after being convicted in the murder of a Fresno man in 2005 in the Cajon Pass.

In April, Dennis Griffin Pease, 59, was convicted of murdering 54-year-old Willard Eichler and dumping his body in some bushes near Swarthout Canyon Road.

An impact statement written by Eichlers sister, Chirstine Hansel, was read aloud in the courtroom during the sentencing hearing in San Bernardino Superior Court.

Dennis Griffin Pease didnt shoot Will and end his life with one cruel shot, the statement says. This coward struck him with some sort of sharp instrument when Will wasnt looking then threw him in the trunk of his own car to slowly bleed to death. Dennis Pease then drove my brothers car with Will dead or dying in the trunk to a remote site and dumped him like some piece of garbage.

Pease was sentenced to 25 years to life in state prison.

On November 11th, 2005, Eichlers body was found near Swarthout Canyon Road in some bushes by a homeless man, prosecutor Denise Yoakum said in a written statement.

Eichlers body was so decomposed when he was found that authorities at the time were unable to determine the cause of death. His car was found days later, and DNA tests were performed at a later date on the steering wheel of the car and came back to positively match Pease. A large amount of blood was found inside the trunk of the car and proven to match Eichler.

Deputies arrested Pease in 2005 on suspicion of being a felon in possession of a firearm when they caught him driving Eichlers Ford LTD. But at the time, they didnt have enough evidence to tie him to the killing.

The case turned cold until the sheriffs cold-case team took another look at it in late 2011.

They conducted interviews and had evidence from the scene, including the Ford, analyzed. DNA evidence linked Pease to the homicide. An arrest warrant was issued for Pease in January 2012. Investigators eventually tracked Pease to Florida where the U.S. Marshals Service found him at a homeless camp behind a gas station and arrested him.

One witness from Fresno told prosecutors they saw Pease with Eichler on one occasion a couple of months prior to the murder. That witness described the defendant as being transient and homophobic, Yoakum said.

Pease gave multiple stories about why he had Eichlers car, prosecutors said.

At first he said a man named Wil sold it to him. Then he told police that a truck driver gave him the car to borrow and finally he flat out denied knowing Eichler, Yoakum stated.

What kind of monster does that to another human being, Hansels statement continued to say.

Life in prison with no chance of parole is more than he deserves.
What can you get for about $48?

A nice dinner for two? A months worth of cell service? A full tank of gas, with maybe a little change?

How about free college tuition?

A new study released this week says that California can offer tuition-free college to its residents, and for half of taxpayers the cost would be $48 or less per year.

The $48 Fix: Reclaiming Californias Master Plan for higher education, was released on Tuesday, touted by its authors and by the California Faculty Association as a way to get the states college system back on track.

The report comes during the same week that UC Regents voted to increase tuition next year by 2.5 percent. Next week, California State University officials will vote on a proposal to raise tuition 5 percent on its 23 campuses.

The studys reference to the Master Plan, refers to the 1960 blueprint adopted when Gov. Pat Brown, the current governors father, was in the statehouse. It established a program for community colleges, Cal State universities and the UC schools, that provided access to students based on their standing after high school graduation. There was to be no cost for tuition.

That provision didnt last long. By the 1970s, university students were paying a small amount of tuition. And in the ensuing years, the price tag for a public college education in California has grown. With the approved increase this week, next years students will pay $12,630 annually to attend a UC school.

Stanton Glantz, a professor of medicine at UC San Francisco and a longtime anti-tobacco activist, said if California taxpayers step up a little, that figure could be zero. One of the six authors of the study, Glantz said people are surprised to learn what it would cost to make that happen.

Most people think its hundreds or thousands of dollars, Glantz said. When you tell them its $48, they look at you like youve gotten off a spaceship.

To be clear, the $48 would apply to those making the median household income in California, estimated in the study as between $39,000 and $40,000. Those making less would pay less. Those making more would pay more. For instance, those making between $90,000 and $100,000 would be expected to pay an additional $378. Those making over $200,000 would pay at least $1,800 more per year.

Co-author Eric Hays, Executive Director of the Council of University of California Faculty Associations, said increased enrollment would bring several factors into play, including state contributions, but he doesnt expect the figures would rise significantly in coming years.

Glantz argues the projected figures are a relatively small price to pay to guarantee access to a college degree. He said he has been looking at the issue for more than a decade and has produced several white papers on the subject. For the last year, he and the five other authors worked to produce a more comprehensive study.

These are like real numbers, Glantz said, adding that such a breakdown has not been done before. Weve sat down and shown exactly how you could do it. Were hoping to elevate the policy discourse and get people away from the rhetoric to talk about, What are you really going to do?

He and his fellow authors are hoping to spur more public discussion of the issue and to get lawmakers to consider such a plan. Glantz attended this weeks UC Regents meeting and spoke for one minute on the study during the public comment period. Two regents, John Perez and Gavin Newsom, he said, asked him for copies of the report.

Amy Hines (a co-author), I believe went to Sacramento yesterday and gave this to every member of the Legislature, Glantz said. Theyll be talking about it at the CSU meeting next week. The first step in solving a problem like this is letting people know there is a solution.

Hed like to see the governor get on board, particularly after Brown made such an impassioned State of the State speech this week. Its a matter of political will, he said.

If hes going to go out there and say California is an exceptional place, he said, fixing higher education and getting it back to what it was when his dad was in there should be at the top of the list.

Most officials in a position to act on a solution, he said, likely have not considered what the study suggests.

Ive had many discussions with people in Sacramento for many years and the presumption was, Well, thats a great idea but it would be prohibitively expensive and not possible, he said. I think our contribution is to show this is possible and affordable.

A copy of the full report by the group Reclaim California Higher Education can be found at http://bit.ly/2kcvUvy

Contact the writer: mmuckenfuss@scng.com or 951-368-9595
The development team building the Murrieta Marketplace, a large shopping center in the northeastern corner of the city near French Valley, is making changes to the plans, which has pushed back the start of construction.

The team, a limited partnership that bought the 50-acre site last year for around $18 million, also is working with Caltrans on securing approval for improvements to Winchester Road, which has contributed to delaying the groundbreaking from late 2016 to sometime this year.

Cynthia Kinser, Murrietas city planner, said the owners have not submitted a new application detailing the proposed changes. But the broad brushstrokes of the project are the same: around 500,000 square feet of commercial space anchored by a home improvement store, a grocery store and a big-box retailer, like a Kohls or Target.

We do anticipate an application sometime this year, she said.

The center will be on the southwestern corner of the intersection of Winchester Road and Max Gillis Boulevard, a site that eventually will be serviced by the expansion of Clinton Keith Road.

Menifee City Councilman Matt Liesemeyer, a member of the development team, said the project is moving forward and the team has received serious inquiries from multiple tenants.

Were hoping to break ground this year, he said Friday.

Some residents in the area are excited about the prospect of new stores within walking distance. Others are concerned about how the project will affect traffic in the region.

Real estate expert Gene Wunderlich, a former Murrieta council member, said that these sort of centers generally boost the value of properties in proximity because they are more attractive to younger homeowners who prefer walkability.

For the most part, its not going to negatively impact them, he said, talking about neighboring landowners concerned about property values.

Plans for a shopping center on that land have been on the books for years, but the blueprints were shelved during the recession. The council earlier this decade approved a development plan for the acreage that expired in December, but the plan allows for a series of one-year extensions.

The center will be one of the largest shopping hubs in the region, trailing only the Promenade Mall in Temecula and the combined acreage of the shopping center cluster in Murrieta west of I-15.

Chris Nielsen, a former Seattle resident who moved to a home near the project site a couple of years ago, has been keeping tabs on the center with an eye on possibly buying or building a house in the area.

He thinks it will be a good thing for the region, providing more dining options and new places to shop.

It will be a bit closer, he said.

Contact the writer: 951-368-9698 or aclaverie@scng.com
Plans are on track for San Bernardino City Hall to be temporarily vacated by April, as all employees move out of a building determined to be a substantial earthquake risk.

The roughly 200 employees now at City Hall will move to several locations, with officials yet to finalize details about which department will be where.

The City Council voted 7-0 in November to authorize City Manager Mark Scott to lease office space in Vanir Tower, 290 N. D St., and space at 215 N. D St., both on the same block as the City Hall building thats stood at 300 N. D St. for 45 years.

Previously: San Bernardino City Hall closes two days over quake fears

Officials also plan to move a portion of City Hall employees to 600 N. Arrowhead Ave., which was occupied by San Bernardino Employment and Training Agency until last March, when the agency closed.

But the lease for that building isnt yet finalized, city spokeswoman Monica Lagos said last week.

Because of that not-signed lease, we cant confirm where everyone is going, Lagos said.

The city also plans to use the structure adjacent to City Hall, the former Economic Development Agency building at 201 N. E St.; City Council meetings will be held there.

Lagos said people have asked why city workers werent moving to other areas, such as Hospitality Lane.

Previously: Quake fears spur San Bernardino to lease buildings near City Hall

We believe in the downtown (area) and have to remain downtown if we want to revitalize it, Lagos said.

Lagos said the Water Department will remain at City Hall until April, at which point the building will be secured and closed to the public.

A public information counter at Vanir Tower will direct the public to whatever service theyre seeking, as will signs.

We will also utilize direct mail, ads, social media and other avenues to announce the move to constituents, Lagos said.

Previously: San Bernardino City Hall closes after magnitude-4.4 quake

Two independent engineering evaluations  from 2007 and 2016  say City Hall would be unsafe in an earthquake.

Specifically, the February 2016 study concludes a magnitude-6.0 earthquake would lead to a likelihood of building failure for City Hall, which was designed before code updates following the 1971 Sylmar and 1994 Northridge earthquakes. The building sits along two fault lines.

Contact the writer: rhagen@scng.comTwitter: @rmhagen
A Victor Valley deputy shot a wanted Phelan man after the man pointed a gun at him Thursday, Jan. 26 officials say. The man is expected to survive.

The deputy was patrolling the 9800 block of Sierra Vista Road at 2:14 p.m. Thursday when he saw a vehicle belonging to Richard Thomas Kelley, 53, whom the deputy knew had an outstanding warrant for domestic violence, according to a San Bernardino County sheriffs news release.

The deputy then saw Kelley and tried to contact him, the news release stated. Kelley ran away, stating he had a weapon and ignoring the deputys commands to stop.

When the deputy found Kelley trying to hide behind a bush, Kelley was pointing a handgun at the lawman, the news release stated. The deputy fired at Kelley, striking him in the upper body.

Kelley was taken to a local hospital where he was treated for injuries. Upon his release, authorities say they plan to arrest Kelley on suspicion of assaulting a peace officer with a weapon and for his outstanding warrant.
A youth was hospitalized with a head injury after someone apparently hit him with a skateboard during a videotaped fight at Orange Terrace Park in Riverside, police and school officials said.

Officer Ryan Railsback said police are looking for witnesses to the altercation, which happened about 4:40 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 26.

On Saturday, there was no new information about the incident itself. Lt. Mark Rossi said he did not believe any arrests had been made.

The video was recorded by someone  police dont yet know who  who was following about a half a dozen students. The tape shows a boy having a brief argument with a much taller boy as they walked along.

When the taller boy turned and confronted the other boy, the smaller boy assumed a fighting stance. The taller boy pushed him, and then was struck from behind by someone, apparently with a skateboard. The taller boy fell.

Timothy Walker, an assistant superintendent with the Riverside Unified School District, wrote in an email to school board members that two boys were injured and one suffered a fractured skull.

At last report the parent stated that the child is stable, Walker wrote.

Walker said the students attend Earhart Middle School and King High, but district spokesman Justin Grayson said Friday that that information has not been confirmed.

Schools were out of session Friday, but Railsback said police were meeting with school officials in an attempt to identify the students in the video.

Detectives and the school resource officer were working on it all day, Railsback said Friday. We want to know more what led up to this before the video was turned on.  Somebody is going to have to know who these kids are.

On Saturday, Railsback said that extra patrols are planned either at or near the Orangecrest schools when students return to class Monday.
A convicted felon accused with two other men of carrying out deadly shootings in Riverside over a 24-hour period must stand trial for murder and other charges, a judge ruled Friday, Jan. 27.

Andrew Steve Molina, 33, was arrested by Mexican state police in Puerto Vallarta in October following a months-long search.

Molina is an associate of Jacob Gamboa III, 30, and Victor Gastelum, 31, who are charged in connection with the same alleged weekend shooting spree.

Following a preliminary hearing at the Riverside Hall of Justice, Riverside County Superior Court Judge Richard Fields ruled there was sufficient evidence to warrant a trial for Molina on the first-degree murder count, as well as a charge of being a convicted felon in possession of a shotgun and a sentence-enhancing great bodily injury allegation.

Fields scheduled a post-preliminary hearing arraignment for Feb. 10. The defendant is being held without bail at the Robert Presley Detention Center in Riverside.

Molina allegedly gunned down 28-year-old Anthony Daniel Razo of Riverside.

The attack happened about 2:30 a.m. June 26 in the 10300 block of Stover Avenue, just off Gaylord Street, in the northwest quarter of the city, according to Riverside police Sgt. Bill McCoy.

He said that officers were called to the location to investigate reports of a man down and discovered the victim, Razo, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was taken to Riverside Community Hospital, where he died a short time later.

The Razo death happened about 24 hours after a similar attack outside a USA Gas station at 3950 Tyler Ave., around the corner from the Galleria at Tyler mall.

In that instance, McCoy said, three people were struck by gunfire, leaving one  39-year-old Terrance Q. Rogers of Riverside  dead at the scene. The other two victims were taken to nearby Kaiser Permanente Medical Center with non-life-threatening wounds.

Detectives quickly developed leads pointing to Gamboa, Gastelum and Molina as the alleged shooters, McCoy said.

The attack outside the gas station reportedly stemmed from a dispute between one of the defendants and another man, who was among the wounded. A motive for the shooting on Stover Avenue was unclear.

Gamboa and Gastelum were arrested without incident on June 27. Molina was identified as their alleged accomplice, but by that time, he had already fled south of the border, police said.

According to court records, Molina has prior convictions for spousal abuse resulting in traumatic injuries and reckless discharge of a firearm.

Gamboa is charged with two counts of first-degree murder, three counts of attempted murder and a special circumstance allegation of targeting multiple victims in the same crime, with sentence-enhancing gun and great bodily injury allegations. He has prior convictions for criminal street gang activity, being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm and carrying a concealed weapon.

Gastelum is charged with one count of murder and two counts of attempted murder. He has prior convictions for domestic violence, being in possession of explosive devices and conspiracy to commit arson.

The pairs next court appearance is scheduled for March 3.

Gamboa is being held without bail, while Gastelum is being held on $3 million bail both at the Robert Presley Detention Center.
When the large truck rolled up to the entrance of Southwest Communities Regional Animal Shelter, crews swung open its doors to reveal stacks upon stacks of pet food and treats.

And it was all free.

The 19,000 pounds worth of food came from the Wilton, Conn.-based Blue Buffalo company in response to an application from the shelter. For those not up on animal food hierarchy, the company is considered gourmet by pet food standards.

Theyre like the Nordstrom of the pet food industry, said Interim Assistant Executive Director Monty Jordan of Animal Friends of the Valleys, the nonprofit that runs the shelter in Wildomar. We were delighted. We were very excited.

The donation is going beyond feeding the shelters inhabitants; pets that get adopted are taking home meals and snacks.

We think its amazing, shelter Rescue Coordinator Monica Alexander said. Were also sharing the treats with our rescue group partners and our humane society partners as well, so the treats are going to all of our animals.

Jordan said he became acquainted with the companys grant program while doing some classwork at the Helen Woodward Animal Center in Rancho Santa Fe and decided to apply.

They called me back and offered me a grant of pet food products that we could use here at the shelter, he said.

While the site depends heavily on donations from the community and volunteers, Blue Buffalos contribution was unique in quantity and quality.

Jordan estimated the total value of the donation to be about $50,000. The dog and cat food should last a month to 40 days and the treats about two to three months, he said.

The massive shipment posed a bit of a logistical problem as employees had to unload the truck by hand and then faced the dilemma of how to get it stored inside. That latter issued was remedied when employees of a nearby business  Quality Foam Packaging  brought fork lifts over to help with the heavy lifting.

We have almost completely filled our storage area, Jordan said. Its a magnificent amount of food and helps us out so much with what were doing.

Empirical evidence suggests the shelters animals like the products, Alexander said.

They gobble them right down.

Contact the writer: 951-368-9690 or michaelwilliams@scng.com
In the easternmost portion of the San Gorgonio Pass lies the Whitewater area, characterized by windmills, a rest stop, a sand and rock supply center, and the Whitewater Preserve.

The area has a long history, though, dating to just before the Pass became a road to the Arizona gold mines.

The Anglo history of the Whitewater area starts about 1860. Frank Smith, the 16-year-old son of Dr. Isaac Smith, whose ranch is now the Highland Springs Resort north of Beaumont, established the Whitewater Ranch near the present-day Whitewater rest stop and began raising stock.

Only two years later, gold was discovered at La Paz, Ariz., which led to a minitature gold rush from Los Angeles to La Paz. William Bradshaw established Bradshaws Road during that time, based upon discussions he had with local Indians.

Soon his road through Whitewater was a popular travel route because it knocked many miles off the established routes. Frank Smith found himself the proprietor of a way station for travelers along the road.

What was so special about Whitewater?

It was either the last reliable source of water before heading through the desert or the first reliable source of water coming out of the desert, a canal having been dug by Smith from the Whitewater River earlier.

As the name implies, though, The water is of a veritable milky whiteness, its hue being caused by a peculiar deposit of a bluish-white character, which is carried in suspension for the greater portion of the year, as the Riverside Daily Press described it in 1891. That meant that the water was alkaline in nature and not the best.

By the 1880s, Smith was gone and ownership had been transferred to others. The Southern Pacific Railroad had come through the area and established a small station just east of the Whitewater River. The station was known for the tremendous winds that howled almost constantly through the area.

An article in the Citrograph newspaper from Redlands humorously described the area: a pleasant place most of the year, but the brakemen have to lie face downward on top of the boxcars to keep the wind from blowing them off the train while it is in motion, and to keep the sand and gravel from putting their eyes out.

In the mid-1940s, the Secor family came to the area and established Snow Creek Camp, a gas station, cafe and small motel where the current rest stop is on the north side of I-10. They constructed what became a haven to motorists on the old Highway 99, since they were the first stop for water and refreshments coming off the desert. That lasted for several years until I-10 was widened and Snow Creek Camp was removed.

Today, Whitewater remains a gateway to the desert or the San Gorgonio Pass, depending on which way a motorist is traveling.
As'ad's Bio

As'ad AbuKhalil, born March 16, 1960. From Tyre, Lebanon, grew up in Beirut. Received his BA and MA from American University of Beirut in pol sc. Came to US in 1983 and received his PhD in comparative government from Georgetown University. Taught at Tufts University, Georgetown University, George Washington University, Colorado College, and Randolph-Macon Woman's College. Served as a Scholar-in-Residence at Middle East Institute in Washington DC. He served as free-lance Middle East consultant for NBC News and ABC News, an experience that only served to increase his disdain for maintream US media. He is now professor of political science at California State University, Stanislaus. His favorite food is fried eggplants.
Lawyer Alhassan Tampuli has been appointed as caretaker Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), according to a copy of a correspondence to that effect which is in the possession of DAILY GUIDE.



The correspondence, signed by the Minister-designate for Energy Boakye Agyarko and dated 26th January 2017 reads, It is my pleasure to inform you that His Excellency the President of the Republic has appointed you as caretaker CEO of NPA.



You would act in that capacity until a substantive CEO is approved. As a caretaker CEO, you will not take decisions that have policy implications until a substantive Governing Board is in place.



You may refer such policy related decisions to the Ministry for prior approval.



Lawyer Alhassan Tampuli, who hails from Gushegu in the Northern Region, has been described as a highly efficient personality who rendered invaluable services to the Transition Team, especially at the peak of their assignments.



Lawyer Alhassan Tampuli, 40, is a graduate of the University of Ghana Business School and Faculty of Law, University of Ghana.



He was called to the Ghana Bar in 2011 and holds an LL.M in Energy and Environmental Law from the Ohio State University Moritz College of Law.



Lawyer Tampuli had a stint with the National Service Scheme (NSS) and rose to the rank of Deputy Head of HR and Acting Director of Postings.



He also worked with the prestigious law firm, Bentsi  Enchill, Letsa & Ankomahs Energy and Natural Resource Practice Group as an associate before co-founding the law firm Eastbridge Associates, a corporate law firm.



He lectured constitutional law at the Wisconsin International University College Faculty of law.



The immediate-past CEO of the NPA was Moses Asaga.

Source: Daily Guide









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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A section of the public in the Upper West Region have expressed good will and high expectations for Mr. Sulemana Alhassan, the President's nominee for the position of Upper West Regional Minister.



Many of those who spoke to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in Wa have no doubt that Mr. Alhassan's past record as former Wa Municipal Director of Education and former Headmaster of Wa Islamic Senior High School (SHS) makes him a very competent person for the job.



Mr. Adams Issahaku, the Upper West Regional Organiser of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) referred to the nominee as one who was well known due to the various positions he held in the Region.



"His non-tribalistic nature and non-involvement in religious matters coupled with his firm nature in taking decisions is admired by all," he said.



On how Mr. Alhassan could help propel the development of the Region, the NDC Regional Organiser urged him to continue and ensure the completion of all projects started by the previous government.



He said it was only this way that the Region could experience real development that would impact on the quality of life of the people.



He said challenges faced by persons appointed to such positions included internal party struggle over resources and jobs especially contracts as well as bias criticisms from opposition.



He was however confident that Mr. Alhassan would overcome such challenges to succeed on his mandate.

Mr. Abdul- Aziz M. Suleman, Deputy Upper West Regional Organiser for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) described Mr. Alhassan as a hardworking man who was very supportive and influential in the Party's success in the Region.



"He is someone who does not discriminate and so will be able to bring together all facets of society together to work for the development of the Region," he said, adding that the President had made a good choice for the Region.



Mr. Suleman who is also the acting Regional Research and Elections Director said youth unemployment was a big issue in the Region and appealed to the nominee to look beyond government opportunities alone and explore other international opportunities and link-up the youth in the Region to take advantage of.



He also urged the nominee to complete all ongoing projects in the Region especially the Regional Hospital project to enable the people derive the benefit and not allow them to stall.

Source: GNA









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The Kontihene of Sunyani Traditional Council, Nana Bofotia Boaponsem II, says the appointment of Lawyer Kwaku Asomah- Cheremeh as the Brong Ahafo Regional Minister shows the disrespectful nature of President Akufo-Addo.



According to him, the appointment of Asomah-Cheremeh irrespective of his gross insubordination to the Sunyani Traditional Council proves the point that the entire NPP executives in Brong Ahafo and the President, Nana Akufo-Addo are in support of his behaviour.



The clearly livid Kontihene told Okay FMs Ade Akye Abia Morning Show host, Kwame Nkrumah Tikesie that Nana Obiri Boahen, NPPs deputy General Secretary's remarks that the Sunyani Traditional Council does not have the locus to reject the President's nominee affirms belief that the party [NPP] has no respect for Chieftaincy Institution in the country.



Kontihene recounted that lawyer Asomah-Cheremeh incited the public to disregard Chieftaincy Institution by refusing to comply with their orders.



It is not only the legal process which is used to govern the country; tradition and culture are also used to govern a country, and also we use conventions and Common Law to govern a country as it is captured in the Constitution, he averred.



How can you [Asomah-Cheremeh] be a leader in a region where you incite the public against Chieftaincy Institution? He has no respect and recognition to the Chieftaincy Institution. Appointing Asomah-Cheremeh as Brong Ahafo Regional Minister shows the disrespectful nature of Nana Akufo-Addo in addition to Asomah-Cheremeh who he [Nana Addo] is encouraging, he fumed.



He added that no matter how small Obiri Boahen will describe the Sunyani Traditional Council, it remains a sovereign traditional council; thus, he expected the NPPs Deputy General Secretary to calm tempers down but it appears, he is inciting the youth to disrespect the traditional council.



"....this issue of the 80 percent declaration by the Sunyani Omanhene for former President Mahama, as a result of which the NPPs Chairman for Brong Ahafo denigrated the Paramount Chief in public, the same Omanhene said to Candidate Akufo Addo that by his next visit to Sunyani, he will be the President...why did the NPP never insult the Paramount Chief for those assertions?" Nana Boamponsem II rhetorically asked.

Source: Daniel Adu Darko/Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Malala Yousafzai  the teenaged Pakistani activist whose story of survival at the hand of radical Taliban forces became worldwide news  has issued an impassioned plea to United States President Donald Trump to wind back a brand-new executive order, which will suspend the nations refugee program for four months.

In a post through The Malala Funds Facebook page, 19-year-old Nobel Peace Prize winner urged Trump to retract the new measures, which also bar anyone from Iraq, Iran, Somalia, Libya, Sudan, Yemen and Syria from entering the US for 90 days  at a minimum.

Yousafzai writes I am heartbroken that today President Trump is closing the door on children, mothers and fathers fleeing violence and war.

I am heartbroken that America is turning its back on a proud history of welcoming refugees and immigrants  the people who helped build your country, ready to work hard in exchange for a fair chance at a new life.

According to Trumps new order, Syrian refugees are also indefinitely banned from entering the US. According to Trump, their presence is detrimental to the interests of the United States.

In turn, Yousafzai says I am heartbroken that Syrian refugee children, who have suffered through six years of war by no fault of their own, are singled-out for discrimination.

The post also includes an anecdote that works against the bulk of Trumps misguided attempt at self-preservation  a short recounting of Yousafzais friend Zaynab, who fled wars in three countries  Somalia, Yemen and Egypt  before she was even 17.

Zaynab lost contact with her younger sister in Egypt; Yousafzai says today her hope of being reunited with her precious sister dims.

In this time of uncertainty and unrest around the world, I ask President Trump not to turn his back on the worlds most defenseless children and families.

Yousafzai is hardly the only one railing against the measures, with US pundits noting some glaring flaws in the whole deal:

ICYM what @maddow said, NONE of the countries on Trumps Muslim ban list have been the source of terrorist attackers in the U.S. since 9/11.  Joy Reid (@JoyAnnReid) January 28, 2017

Oh, by the way, this whole thing may very well affect us too. Remember that refugee swap deal that was on the table, seemingly enabling us to move some detainees in Australian offshore detention facilities (read: literal fucking Hell) to the States? Well, Trumps latest move certainly wont provide any cause for optimism. None at all.

Read Yousafzais full statement below:



Source: Malala Fund / ABC / CNN / Reuters.

Photo: Pacific Press / Getty.
Obsequiousness towards the rich and famous is Vanity Fairs whole deal, so its really no surprise that the February edition of Vanity Fair Mexico features a lavish feature devoted to US first lady Melania Trump.

Nonetheless, they were probably trying to provoke a reaction when they chose the cover image, which shows her dripping in one-percenter opulence and eating a string of jewels like spaghetti, and they have definitely done so.

Relations between the US and Mexico are already fairly fraught right now, to the point where president Enrique Pena Nieto cancelled a meeting with US counterpart Donald Trump over his plans to build a wall on the border.





While a Vanity Fair cover story is not going to provoke any international incidents on that scale, it probably adds insult to injury in a country where almost half the population of 120 million lives in poverty.

Author Guadalupe Loaeze was one of many prominent Mexicans to criticise the cover, fuming:

Its a lack of sensitivity on the part of the publisher. I started reading this and I couldnt finish. I didnt want to know anything about the wife of our countrys number one enemy.

Thems certainly fightin words.

Political analyst and columnist Denise Dresser took to Twitter to say: Thank you [Vanity Fair Mexico] for putting Melania Trump on the cover. Great example of sensitivity, empathy, patriotism and editorial intelligence.

Gracias @VanityFairMX por poner a Melania Trump en la portada. Gran ejemplo de sensibilidad, empatia, patriotismo e inteligencia editorial ?? pic.twitter.com/uTeiySJXfl  Denise Dresser (@DeniseDresserG) January 26, 2017

The feature on Melania, which originally ran in GQ last year, concerns her (turbulent) family past, the tactics for dealing with her husband and how she plans to turn herself into the new Jackie Kennedy.

Source: The Guardian.

Photo: Twitter.
I am offering the solution to a problem most Republicans don't know they have -- that they can be outmaneuvered and thrown on the defensive endlessly, on nearly any issue, because they accept as true Democrat lies about the Republican Party. To correct that misperception and to help the Republican Party get 'back to basics' is why I'm a man on a mission.

A few years ago, after one of my speeches, a man told me "Do you know what your problem is? You're too far ahead of your time!" My efforts to show Republicans how they would benefit from celebrating the heritage of our Grand Old Party have been arduous, but if this were easy someone else would have already done it.

Among my speech topics are Reconciling the Tea Party and the GOP; Barack Obama, the Worst President Ever; Socialism, the new Slavery; Appreciating the Heritage of our Grand Old Party; Returning to the Founding Principles of the United States; The Womens Rights Achievements of our Grand Old Party; Abraham Lincoln, Republican; Frederick Douglass, Republican; Martin Luther King and the Republican Civil Rights Legacy.
President Donald Trump holds up a signed Executive Order in the Oval Office of the White House, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017 in Washington. The document includes restrictions against lobbying for "Every appointee in every executive agency appointed on or after January 20, 2017..." (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
"There still is this long-held belief that pregnant women should minimize exposing the fetus to any unknown substance, especially those injected into the body."
FILE - In this Jan. 12, 2017 file photo, Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz. speaks on Capitol Hill in Washington. A day ahead of President Donald TrumpAos weekend call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, the fight within the Republican Party over the direction of U.S. policy toward Moscow intensified. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File)
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I felt I had been fighting off some illness for the last few days but woke up in the middle of the night this morning with a sore throat and...
What's that saying about DH bikes and cars? Solid turn out in the Brook Valley.

Blenki and Wyn look over Blenki's new Norco which is cropped out because it's still Proto - no photo, at the moment. Sorry.

Rupert ponders the race ahead of him, wearing that snazzy new Pivot kit.

Cole does some weird bike stretches before his first run. And then he does this kinda prayer thing too...

Keegan dresses all in black with a hi-vis yellow helmet. Photographers nightmare.

I want you all to take it a bit easy on your first run down there guys, we want to make sure the crazy horse lady hasn't laid any booby traps. I know it sounds serious, and it is, but's she's crazy and she's already tried calling the police this morning - Richard, Race Organiser

The light was difficult first off, super bright sun into darkness. So much contrast it looks like there is a flash being used here, which there isn't.

Rupert drops in under some hero light for his first run down Fringe Hill on the new rig.

Rupert on his shiny new Pivot, lots of carbon, not that much weight.

That bike is far too clean.

Harry goes for a mid-air pedal with Keegan chasing close behind.

Sarah took second in Elite Women, behind Shania Rawson.

Anja Mcdonald, takes 3rd in the Women's Masters.

Unlucky, should've gone tubeless. Only a few got caught out on today's course, with the surface being rather loose.

Billy on his way to 2nd place in the under 19s.

Max gets tucked, elbows out and off the ground.

Rod finds some nice light to ride through midway down the track.

Threading through the natives.

Josh follows Billy to 3rd place in the under 19s.

Out of the green room, back into the dust.

Calum Booth with the perfect riding position.

Fans in trees. The state of the track was DRY. Like talcum powder and marbles.

Blowing up corners. Sick shot of Finn.

Oscar on his way to 3rd place senior men.

Czech rider Milan Mysik getting some off-season bike time.

Kris goes first in Masters 2, big old roost from the rear.

Liam navigates a tricky section, this section had a selection of lines and saw a few people leave the track.

First in under 19s rider with head to toe FOX kit on.

Josh sends the biggest drop on the course.

Nils sends the drop, check out his expression...

Eyes lit up here, on the way to 5th in senior men for Kim.

Sam's competing in elites this year, coming away with 10th behind Rupert Chapman.

So fast he looks small in this shot.

Gareth Burgess rails one of the last corners, a corner where we'd seen a few washouts earlier.

The bottom section of this track was fast, and potentially very easy to wash out on.

Another black kit rider to help cameras focus.

Coles floats the roots and coasts into a bomb hole, takes 7th on the day.

Keegan gets hard on the pedals on a track that barely needed pedaling. Commitment.

Keegan remains the leader of the series after the 4th round.

Great form on a bike, any bike, doesn't matter what bike.

Sam looks to be getting comfortable quickly on the new rig.

Hometown hero, Kieran Bennett on his way to 3rd overall.

Focused on the podium, KB had a strong ride to third place, making him the fastest non-factory rider on the hill.

Heels down, eyes on the exit. Wyn's hard on the brakes dragging the loose hillside with him.

Wyn's number 2 plate standing him in good stead for taking 2nd place.

Waiting at the top for my run I had noticed my front tyre had a gone near flat... luckily I managed to find a pump, stuck about 35 in it, snaked my way to the front and dropped in. Run was all good bit messy tyre sprung a leak half way but sealed itsself, thank God! Was surprised to take the win my but happy days. Stoked! - Phil Atwill

Gapping the step-down through the trees, Phil looks at home here in Nelson.

Here for a good time, not a long time.

Phil just looked fast on every part of the track. He was on a flyer.

Winner winner chicken dinner.

Comes over for some summer weather, beats the Kiwis on their own track. Lad.

Elite Men's podium with the tourist Phil Atwill on top.

Straight up cash for prizes. That's how we likes it.

We're off to the bar now... Top 5 fastest riders on the day.

So, if you're interested in New Zealand downhill racing, (which you probably are if you're reading this) then you've been well and truly kept up to date by Cameron Mackenzie, who has been killing the North Island NZ National DH coverage so far. Now it's my turn to take over as the series crosses the Cook Strait and lands at the top of the South Island in sunny Nelson. Now, I don't need to explain all the details of the new race format as Cam has already done the legwork here , cheers mate.Nelson is well known for having great weather, an average of 2400 hours of sunshine a year, which is 900 more than London for example. This weekend has proved no different. Blazing sun and little-to-no cloud cover was great for holidaying Brits like Phil Atwill, but offered a few issues for racers and photographers. Bright open sections plunging into dark native forests, dust from the bone-dry track hanging in the air. Good track conditions for those who like to hang it out.The race took place on Fringe Hill track, up the Brook Valley, a move from last year's Kaka track, in Maitai. The track was true to riding in Nelson; loose, rugged and a heap of fun. There were a couple of new additions to the ranks at this round with a pile of the South Island Elite riders making the trip up. Notably Sam Blenkinsop arrived with a brand new stealth prototype Norco that he'd never ridden, and Rupert Chapman made his first competition appearance on his new Pivot.Round 4 was also the first race in the Nelson MTB Top Gun series, where riders have to compete in Downhill, Enduro and XC to have a chance at claiming the overall weekend victory.Full results here : @freeridenz
Chicago Police Supt. Eddie Johnson  who fell ill and lost his balance during a news conference at a South Side police station on Friday  needs a kidney transplant, sources told the Chicago Sun-Times.

Anthony Guglielmi, chief spokesman for the police department, tweeted that Johnson was expected to be released from the hospital sometime Friday. "He is fine & in great spirits," Guglielmi wrote. "Incident unrelated to a longstanding kidney issue."

At about 3 p.m., Guglielmi tweeted that Johnson would be released from the hospital in the "next few hours," and that after his discharge," Johnson "will brief media on his health episode." Guglielmi indicated that the briefing would be at police headquarters.

Guglielmi told the Sun-Times the near-collapse that occurred Friday at the Englewood District station was unrelated to the superintendent's longstanding kidney condition. The incident had to do with blood-pressure medication Johnson is taking.

"He had taken some blood pressure medication, felt light-headed, did not lose consciousness, but did lose his balance," Guglielmi said. "He has been managing a kidney issue for 32 years," Guglielmi added. "He has been managing it successfully with no impact on his ability to lead a normal life. He is not on dialysis. He does not have diabetes."
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The White House has released the text of Trumps Muslim ban executive order that also immediately halts the Syrian refugee program. Here is the full text of one of the darkest days in the history of US democracy.

Here is the full text:



EXECUTIVE ORDER

      

PROTECTING THE NATION FROM FOREIGN TERRORIST ENTRY INTO THE UNITED STATES

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and laws of the United States of America, including the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), 8 U.S.C. 1101 et seq., and section 301 of title 3, United States Code, and to protect the American people from terrorist attacks by foreign nationals admitted to the United States, it is hereby ordered as follows:

Section 1. Purpose. The visa-issuance process plays a crucial role in detecting individuals with terrorist ties and stopping them from entering the United States. Perhaps in no instance was that more apparent than the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, when State Department policy prevented consular officers from properly scrutinizing the visa applications of several of the 19 foreign nationals who went on to murder nearly 3,000 Americans. And while the visa-issuance process was reviewed and amended after the September 11 attacks to better detect would-be terrorists from receiving visas, these measures did not stop attacks by foreign nationals who were admitted to the United States.

Numerous foreign-born individuals have been convicted or implicated in terrorism-related crimes since September 11, 2001, including foreign nationals who entered the United States after receiving visitor, student, or employment visas, or who entered through the United States refugee resettlement program. Deteriorating conditions in certain countries due to war, strife, disaster, and civil unrest increase the likelihood that terrorists will use any means possible to enter the United States. The United States must be vigilant during the visa-issuance process to ensure that those approved for admission do not intend to harm Americans and that they have no ties to terrorism.

In order to protect Americans, the United States must ensure that those admitted to this country do not bear hostile attitudes toward it and its founding principles. The United States cannot, and should not, admit those who do not support the Constitution, or those who would place violent ideologies over American law. In addition, the United States should not admit those who engage in acts of bigotry or hatred (including honor killings, other forms of violence against women, or the persecution of those who practice religions different from their own) or those who would oppress Americans of any race, gender, or sexual orientation.

Sec. 2. Policy. It is the policy of the United States to protect its citizens from foreign nationals who intend to commit terrorist attacks in the United States; and to prevent the admission of foreign nationals who intend to exploit United States immigration laws for malevolent purposes.

Sec. 3. Suspension of Issuance of Visas and Other Immigration Benefits to Nationals of Countries of Particular Concern. (a) The Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of State and the Director of National Intelligence, shall immediately conduct a review to determine the information needed from any country to adjudicate any visa, admission, or other benefit under the INA (adjudications) in order to determine that the individual seeking the benefit is who the individual claims to be and is not a security or public-safety threat.

(b) The Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of State and the Director of National Intelligence, shall submit to the President a report on the results of the review described in subsection (a) of this section, including the Secretary of Homeland Securitys determination of the information needed for adjudications and a list of countries that do not provide adequate information, within 30 days of the date of this order. The Secretary of Homeland Security shall provide a copy of the report to the Secretary of State and the Director of National Intelligence.

(c) To temporarily reduce investigative burdens on relevant agencies during the review period described in subsection (a) of this section, to ensure the proper review and maximum utilization of available resources for the screening of foreign nationals, and to ensure that adequate standards are established to prevent infiltration by foreign terrorists or criminals, pursuant to section 212(f) of the INA, 8 U.S.C. 1182(f), I hereby proclaim that the immigrant and nonimmigrant entry into the United States of aliens from countries referred to in section 217(a)(12) of the INA, 8 U.S.C. 1187(a)(12), would be detrimental to the interests of the United States, and I hereby suspend entry into the United States, as immigrants and nonimmigrants, of such persons for 90 days from the date of this order (excluding those foreign nationals traveling on diplomatic visas, North Atlantic Treaty Organization visas, C-2 visas for travel to the United Nations, and G-1, G-2, G-3, and G-4 visas).

(d) Immediately upon receipt of the report described in subsection (b) of this section regarding the information needed for adjudications, the Secretary of State shall request all foreign governments that do not supply such information to start providing such information regarding their nationals within 60 days of notification.

(e) After the 60-day period described in subsection (d) of this section expires, the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of State, shall submit to the President a list of countries recommended for inclusion on a Presidential proclamation that would prohibit the entry of foreign nationals (excluding those foreign nationals traveling on diplomatic visas, North Atlantic Treaty Organization visas, C-2 visas for travel to the United Nations, and G-1, G-2, G-3, and G-4 visas) from countries that do not provide the information requested pursuant to subsection (d) of this section until compliance occurs.

(f) At any point after submitting the list described in subsection (e) of this section, the Secretary of State or the Secretary of Homeland Security may submit to the President the names of any additional countries recommended for similar treatment.

(g) Notwithstanding a suspension pursuant to subsection (c) of this section or pursuant to a Presidential proclamation described in subsection (e) of this section, the Secretaries of State and Homeland Security may, on a case-by-case basis, and when in the national interest, issue visas or other immigration benefits to nationals of countries for which visas and benefits are otherwise blocked.

(h) The Secretaries of State and Homeland Security shall submit to the President a joint report on the progress in implementing this order within 30 days of the date of this order, a second report within 60 days of the date of this order, a third report within 90 days of the date of this order, and a fourth report within 120 days of the date of this order.

Sec. 4. Implementing Uniform Screening Standards for All Immigration Programs. (a) The Secretary of State, the Secretary of Homeland Security, the Director of National Intelligence, and the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation shall implement a program, as part of the adjudication process for immigration benefits, to identify individuals seeking to enter the United States on a fraudulent basis with the intent to cause harm, or who are at risk of causing harm subsequent to their admission. This program will include the development of a uniform screening standard and procedure, such as in-person interviews; a database of identity documents proffered by applicants to ensure that duplicate documents are not used by multiple applicants; amended application forms that include questions aimed at identifying fraudulent answers and malicious intent; a mechanism to ensure that the applicant is who the applicant claims to be; a process to evaluate the applicants likelihood of becoming a positively contributing member of society and the applicants ability to make contributions to the national interest; and a mechanism to assess whether or not the applicant has the intent to commit criminal or terrorist acts after entering the United States.

(b) The Secretary of Homeland Security, in conjunction with the Secretary of State, the Director of National Intelligence, and the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, shall submit to the President an initial report on the progress of this directive within 60 days of the date of this order, a second report within 100 days of the date of this order, and a third report within 200 days of the date of this order.

Sec. 5. Realignment of the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program for Fiscal Year 2017. (a) The Secretary of State shall suspend the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) for 120 days. During the 120-day period, the Secretary of State, in conjunction with the Secretary of Homeland Security and in consultation with the Director of National Intelligence, shall review the USRAP application and adjudication process to determine what additional procedures should be taken to ensure that those approved for refugee admission do not pose a threat to the security and welfare of the United States, and shall implement such additional procedures. Refugee applicants who are already in the USRAP process may be admitted upon the initiation and completion of these revised procedures. Upon the date that is 120 days after the date of this order, the Secretary of State shall resume USRAP admissions only for nationals of countries for which the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and the Director of National Intelligence have jointly determined that such additional procedures are adequate to ensure the security and welfare of the United States.

(b) Upon the resumption of USRAP admissions, the Secretary of State, in consultation with the Secretary of Homeland Security, is further directed to make changes, to the extent permitted by law, to prioritize refugee claims made by individuals on the basis of religious-based persecution, provided that the religion of the individual is a minority religion in the individuals country of nationality. Where necessary and appropriate, the Secretaries of State and Homeland Security shall recommend legislation to the President that would assist with such prioritization.

(c) Pursuant to section 212(f) of the INA, 8 U.S.C. 1182(f), I hereby proclaim that the entry of nationals of Syria as refugees is detrimental to the interests of the United States and thus suspend any such entry until such time as I have determined that sufficient changes have been made to the USRAP to ensure that admission of Syrian refugees is consistent with the national interest.

(d) Pursuant to section 212(f) of the INA, 8 U.S.C. 1182(f), I hereby proclaim that the entry of more than 50,000 refugees in fiscal year 2017 would be detrimental to the interests of the United States, and thus suspend any such entry until such time as I determine that additional admissions would be in the national interest.

(e) Notwithstanding the temporary suspension imposed pursuant to subsection (a) of this section, the Secretaries of State and Homeland Security may jointly determine to admit individuals to the United States as refugees on a case-by-case basis, in their discretion, but only so long as they determine that the admission of such individuals as refugees is in the national interest  including when the person is a religious minority in his country of nationality facing religious persecution, when admitting the person would enable the United States to conform its conduct to a preexisting international agreement, or when the person is already in transit and denying admission would cause undue hardship  and it would not pose a risk to the security or welfare of the United States.

(f) The Secretary of State shall submit to the President an initial report on the progress of the directive in subsection (b) of this section regarding prioritization of claims made by individuals on the basis of religious-based persecution within 100 days of the date of this order and shall submit a second report within 200 days of the date of this order.

(g) It is the policy of the executive branch that, to the extent permitted by law and as practicable, State and local jurisdictions be granted a role in the process of determining the placement or settlement in their jurisdictions of aliens eligible to be admitted to the United States as refugees. To that end, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall examine existing law to determine the extent to which, consistent with applicable law, State and local jurisdictions may have greater involvement in the process of determining the placement or resettlement of refugees in their jurisdictions, and shall devise a proposal to lawfully promote such involvement.

Sec. 6. Rescission of Exercise of Authority Relating to the Terrorism Grounds of Inadmissibility. The Secretaries of State and Homeland Security shall, in consultation with the Attorney General, consider rescinding the exercises of authority in section 212 of the INA, 8 U.S.C. 1182, relating to the terrorism grounds of inadmissibility, as well as any related implementing memoranda.

Sec. 7. Expedited Completion of the Biometric Entry-Exit Tracking System. (a) The Secretary of Homeland Security shall expedite the completion and implementation of a biometric entry-exit tracking system for all travelers to the United States, as recommended by the National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States.

(b) The Secretary of Homeland Security shall submit to the President periodic reports on the progress of the directive contained in subsection (a) of this section. The initial report shall be submitted within 100 days of the date of this order, a second report shall be submitted within 200 days of the date of this order, and a third report shall be submitted within 365 days of the date of this order. Further, the Secretary shall submit a report every 180 days thereafter until the system is fully deployed and operational.

Sec. 8. Visa Interview Security. (a) The Secretary of State shall immediately suspend the Visa Interview Waiver Program and ensure compliance with section 222 of the INA, 8 U.S.C. 1222, which requires that all individuals seeking a nonimmigrant visa undergo an in-person interview, subject to specific statutory exceptions.

(b) To the extent permitted by law and subject to the availability of appropriations, the Secretary of State shall immediately expand the Consular Fellows Program, including by substantially increasing the number of Fellows, lengthening or making permanent the period of service, and making language training at the Foreign Service Institute available to Fellows for assignment to posts outside of their area of core linguistic ability, to ensure that non-immigrant visa-interview wait times are not unduly affected.

Sec. 9. Visa Validity Reciprocity. The Secretary of State shall review all nonimmigrant visa reciprocity agreements to ensure that they are, with respect to each visa classification, truly reciprocal insofar as practicable with respect to validity period and fees, as required by sections 221(c) and 281 of the INA, 8 U.S.C. 1201(c) and 1351, and other treatment. If a country does not treat United States nationals seeking nonimmigrant visas in a reciprocal manner, the Secretary of State shall adjust the visa validity period, fee schedule, or other treatment to match the treatment of United States nationals by the foreign country, to the extent practicable.

Sec. 10. Transparency and Data Collection. (a) To be more transparent with the American people, and to more effectively implement policies and practices that serve the national interest, the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Attorney General, shall, consistent with applicable law and national security, collect and make publicly available within 180 days, and every 180 days thereafter:

(i) information regarding the number of foreign nationals in the United States who have been charged with terrorism-related offenses while in the United States; convicted of terrorism-related offenses while in the United States; or removed from the United States based on terrorism-related activity, affiliation, or material support to a terrorism-related organization, or any other national security reasons since the date of this order or the last reporting period, whichever is later;

(ii) information regarding the number of foreign nationals in the United States who have been radicalized after entry into the United States and engaged in terrorism-related acts, or who have provided material support to terrorism-related organizations in countries that pose a threat to the United States, since the date of this order or the last reporting period, whichever is later; and

(iii) information regarding the number and types of acts of gender-based violence against women, including honor killings, in the United States by foreign nationals, since the date of this order or the last reporting period, whichever is later; and

(iv) any other information relevant to public safety and security as determined by the Secretary of Homeland Security and the Attorney General, including information on the immigration status of foreign nationals charged with major offenses.

(b) The Secretary of State shall, within one year of the date of this order, provide a report on the estimated long-term costs of the USRAP at the Federal, State, and local levels.

Sec. 11. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

(i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or

(ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.

(b) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

(c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

DONALD J. TRUMP

THE WHITE HOUSE,

January 27, 2017.
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Today is Holocaust Remembrance Day. Its an important reminder of where hate leads. Its also a reminder of the consequences of silence by good people. The last thing we should do is accept a man who has embraced many of the ideological characteristics that made the Holocaust possible.

The week since Trump took the oath of office (has it only been a week?) was like a continuous cruel joke on this day that people around the world dedicate to remembering where hate leads.

The Holocaust didnt just happen one day. It began with words and propaganda much like what we have heard and seen from Donald Trump since the day he announced his candidacy. The words and propaganda were followed by armbands, national registries, banning people for who they are, taking rights away one by one. All that happened before the camps.

Trump is utilizing propaganda tactics that are the lifes blood of authoritarian regimes  regardless of ideology. It began with the illusion of massive support, thanks to paid fans, the day he announced a candidacy that would shock and horrify people with two or more brain cells to rub together.

Trump has supporters who hang on his every word to the point that even when he is caught in a boldfaced lie, they still believe he tells is like it is. It was like that from the earliest stages of Trumps campaign.

Gas lighting was a frequent feature of Trumps messaging. One unforgettable example was Trumps claim that he never supported the war in Iraq.

We saw it again as Trump denied mocking a disabled reporter and contradicted himself and his own website. We also saw it when Trump tried to blame Hillary Clinton for birtherism.

This past week, Trump tried to gas light America on attendance numbers at the Inauguration vs. the number of attendees at the Womens March. He went so far as to order the chief of the Park Service to find proof to correspond with Trumps alternative reality. The creme de la creme of gas lighting came with the lie about voter fraud by illegals. Its a lie that increasingly looks as if it will bring dire consequences to legitimate voters.

We saw Trumps ongoing attempt to browbeat the media into submission  as dutiful stenographers  a mere propaganda branch of the Trump regime. Following Trumps press conference, where he lied profusely and attacked the media for challenging his lies; Sean Spicer reinforced the Putinesque ideology at his first official briefing. He lied frequently while scolding the media for calling out Trumps lies. That was followed by Steve Bannons the media needs to keep its mouth shut remark.

The hatred directed at Mexico was about pandering to the pathological hatred among Trumps base and humiliating Mexico. Trumps tactic may have pleased his base, but in the real world, it proved that governing isnt just like running a business. As a result of Trumps negotiation tactic, the president of Mexico canceled the scheduled meeting with Trump.

Trumps threat to invade Chicago and his lies about crimes rates in Philadelphia were more red meat to his base and another confirmation of his authoritarian tendencies.

Trumps approach to policy was as shocking to those who said give him a chance but predicable to anyone who was paying attention. Trump took the first steps to take healthcare away from 20 million Americans, abandon the TPP, renegotiate NAFTA, build that stupid wall, (though I prefer Vincente Foxs adjective), turn our backs on refugees and put hostility towards immigrants into policy. Its possible he may reinstitute torture and dark sites, though not without some form of resistance from within his own party.

Steve Bannon, is Trumps chief strategist. In his prior job, Bannon hired and published Holocaust deniers. This week he hired Julia Hahn, a Breitbart writer known for attacking Paul Ryan as a White House aide. Some observers believe Hahn is there to bring Republicans to heel, as a Bannons Bannon.

Jeff Sessions racist past was enough to stop him from becoming an appellate court judge but, it appears, it wont be enough to stop him from becoming the next Attorney-General. Predictably, Sessions and Bannon get along very well.

The incoming Secretary of State was awarded the Order of Friendship by Vladimir Putin. Its the award that Putin gave to George Blake  a British double agent.

We also heard Trump lay the foundation for restricting, possibly eliminating elections as we know them. It began during the campaign as Trump talked about the rigged election system. It continued when he said he would question the election results unless he won. He warned of wide spread voter fraud in certain places  aka where lots of people of color live and vote, when he urged his supporters to monitor the polls. For a brief moment, Trumps big lie about voter fraud proved detrimental. Thats when his lawyers acknowledged there was no evidence of voter fraud in response to a challenge to his electoral college victory.

This week Trump announced an intent to order an investigation into the voter fraud his own legal team said was nonexistent  when it suited Trump. That was then. Now Trump claims voter fraud was pervasive enough to hand him the humiliation of defeat by 3 million people in the popular vote. Trumps vice president, Mike Pence, confirmed the investigation will happen during a private meeting with Republicans.

What I can tell you is that I would anticipate that the administration is going to initiate a full evaluation of voting rules in the country, the overall integrity of our voting system in the wake of this past election,

Those words should send a chill down every Americans spine.

Free and fair elections tend to become casualties of governments where lies become alternative facts and the president orders an investigation into something that never happened.

Also this week, Trump gagged government agencies and the purges of non-ideological career civil servants are underway.

All these events are not listed in order of importance, but to illustrate that Trumps actions are standard procedure in any authoritarian regime.

This past week confirmed the worst fears of anyone who was paying attention. Its also a reminder of why days like today matter.

Remembering the Holocaust is about remembering what happens when good people remain silent in the face of a government trying to normalize the horrifying and the unjustifiable.
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The top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee is hammering President Donald Trump for imposing a religious test on fleeing refugees through his Muslim ban executive order.

Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA) tweeted:

Donald Trump's executive order today establishes a religious test for those coming from certain Muslim countries. Period.  Adam Schiff (@RepAdamSchiff) January 28, 2017

It would turn away women and children fleeing violence unless they worship in the right way or to the right God.  Adam Schiff (@RepAdamSchiff) January 28, 2017

It would turn away women and children fleeing violence unless they worship in the right way or to the right God.  Adam Schiff (@RepAdamSchiff) January 28, 2017

The part of the executive order that Schiff is referring to states, (e) Notwithstanding the temporary suspension imposed pursuant to subsection (a) of this section, the Secretaries of State and Homeland Security may jointly determine to admit individuals to the United States as refugees on a case-by-case basis, in their discretion, but only so long as they determine that the admission of such individuals as refugees is in the national interest  including when the person is a religious minority in his country of nationality facing religious persecution, when admitting the person would enable the United States to conform its conduct to a preexisting international agreement, or when the person is already in transit and denying admission would cause undue hardship  and it would not pose a risk to the security or welfare of the United States.

Rep. Schiff is correct what Trump did was institutionalize prejudice against Muslims. The Presidents executive order doesnt just give preference to minority Christians in Muslim countries, but it also forbids majority Muslim populations from ever getting entry into the United States on the basis of nothing more than the religion that they practice.

People of all faiths should be extremely alarmed by the precedent that Trumps executive order sets. There is nothing stopping Trump from banning anyone of any religion from coming into or staying in the United States.

On a visceral level, it is clear that what Trump did goes against American values, but in real terms, Donald Trump used the power of the presidency to make discrimination the policy of the executive branch, and create a religious test that violates the Constitution.

It is not only fleeing refugees who will be harmed due to Trumps executive order, but the freedoms of every single American were made weaker with a stroke of Trumps pen.
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In what could be viewed a hat tip to their white nationalist supporters, the Trump White House managed to release a Holocaust Remembrance Day statement that never mentioned Jewish people by name.

The White House said:



It is with a heavy heart and somber mind that we remember and honor the victims, survivors, heroes of the Holocaust. It is impossible to fully fathom the depravity and horror inflicted on innocent people by Nazi terror.

Yet, we know that in the darkest hours of humanity, light shines the brightest. As we remember those who died, we are deeply grateful to those who risked their lives to save the innocent.

In the name of the perished, I pledge to do everything in my power throughout my Presidency, and my life, to ensure that the forces of evil never again defeat the powers of good. Together, we will make love and tolerance prevalent throughout the world.

For the sake of comparison, this was the opening paragraph of President Obamas 2014 Holocaust Remembrance Day statement, Each year on this day the world comes together to commemorate a barbaric crime unique in human history. We recall six million Jews and millions of other innocent victims who were murdered in Nazi death camps. We mourn lives cut short and communities torn apart.

In George W. Bushs 2008 statement, he didnt mention the Jews specifically, but he did talk about his recent visit to Israel and the Holocaust Museum, I was deeply moved by my recent visit to Yad Vashem, Israels Holocaust Museum. Sixty-three years after the liberation of Auschwitz, we must continue to educate ourselves about the lessons of the Holocaust, and honor those whose lives were taken as a result of a totalitarian ideology that embraced a national policy of violent hatred, bigotry, and extermination. It is also our responsibility to honor the survivors and those courageous souls who refused to be bystanders, and instead risked their own lives to try to save the Nazis intended victims.

Trump might get the benefit of the doubt if his campaign was so openly supported by white nationalists, and his senior White House advisor wasnt reported to be a white nationalist and anti-Semite.

The Trump White Houses omission Jews from Holocaust Remembrance Day sends a powerful signal to the racists who supported his candidacy because to some this was no accident. It was a loud and clear message on where this White House will stand on issues of race, bigotry, and discrimination.
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Yesterday, Connecticut Senator Chris Murphy tweeted a disturbing photo that, because of its image, got a very powerful message across:

To my colleagues: don't ever again lecture me on American moral leadership if you chose to be silent today. pic.twitter.com/XW7sjmCcXh  Chris Murphy (@ChrisMurphyCT) January 28, 2017

Sen. Chuck Schumer yesterday called Trumps Muslim ban one of the most backward and nasty executive orders. Today, in a series of tweets, Murphy schooled those who compared Obamas reluctance to militarily intervene in Syria and the #MuslimBan imposed by Donald Trump:

Few more thoughts: 1/ There is no moral equivalence between Obama's reluctance to militarily intervene in Syria and the #MuslimBan.  Chris Murphy (@ChrisMurphyCT) January 28, 2017

2/ Obama reasonably believed military force would make Syria worse. #MuslimBan reverses decades of policy based on illogical, racist fear.  Chris Murphy (@ChrisMurphyCT) January 28, 2017

3/ I have been a critic of Obama policy in Syria, but there is a legitimate debate about US intervention would have made it better or worse  Chris Murphy (@ChrisMurphyCT) January 28, 2017

4/ But until yesterday, the idea that America rescues those fleeing terror and persecution stood firm despite these disagreements.  Chris Murphy (@ChrisMurphyCT) January 28, 2017

5/ If you can't agree on how to put out a fire, you should at least agree to stage a rescue of those trapped. Now we aren't doing either.  Chris Murphy (@ChrisMurphyCT) January 28, 2017

Of course, Donald Trump has vowed to exterminate Islamic extremism and would argue that he is putting out a fire. The Iranian Foreign Ministry has already pointed out that, on the contrary, despite claims of being made to combat terrorism and protecting the people of the United States, it will be recorded in history as a great gift to extremists and their supporters.

Meanwhile, people are dying. Refugees are dying. People who, like the Jews fleeing from Nazi Germany in the 1930s, and who were refused entry into the United States, will die instead. Chris Murphy is right to condemn American moral leadership. It has none. That disappeared on the day President Barack Obama left office. We are left with a moral void named Donald J. Trump.
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Today, as a result of Donald Trumps Muslim ban, two Iraqi men were detained at New Yorks JFK International Airport, Hameed Darwish, who worked for the U.S. government in Iraq as a translator in less racist times, from 2003 to 2013, and 11 others, who if they had been Christian, would likely have been passed right through.

Democratic Representatives, Jerry Nadler and Nydia Velazquez, who represent the 10th and 7th districts, respectively, marched today on JFK. Nadler called Trumps immigration order is discriminatoryand frankly quite disgusting and Velazquez said, Mr. President, look at us. This is America. What you have done is shameful.

At JFK now with @NydiaVelazquez to help refugees detained by Trump's shameful order. pic.twitter.com/jiN5bWBfnw  (((Rep. Nadler))) (@RepJerryNadler) January 28, 2017

At #JFK with @RepJerryNadler demanding release of refugees detained under new Executive Order. pic.twitter.com/4hcEarfrjw  Rep. Nydia Velazquez (@NydiaVelazquez) January 28, 2017

Watch courtesy of CNN:

.@NydiaVelazquez outside JFK airport: "Mr President, look at us! This is America. What you have done is shameful!" https://t.co/0Uoz3d59aD  CNN (@CNN) January 28, 2017

Reps. Nadler and Velazquez issued the following joint statement:

Today, we saw in real human terms the damage and the absurdity of Trumps policies. The presidents executive order is mean-spirited, ill-conceived, and ill-advised. The order almost banned a man from entering the country who has worked for the United States government for 10 years, who risked his life to help us and to help our troops, and who loves our country. Thankfully, we did not sit idly by. We took action. We demanded his release, and the release of the others who are being unlawfully detained. We are pleased to announce that Hameed Khalid Darweesh has been released and can now be reunited with his family.

This should not happen in America. We shouldnt have to demand the release of refugees one by one. We must fight this executive order in the streets, in the courts, anywhere, anytime. We must resist. We must fight. We must keep working to keep America the land of the free and the home of the brave.

Meanwhile, two of the Iraqis, including Darweesh, who called America the greatest nation in the world, have filed a lawsuit against Trump and the US government. The other man, Haider Sameer Abdulkaleq Alshawi, is still being held at JFK.

Photo: Twitter @RepJerrynadler
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It did not take Iran long to respond to Donald Trumps Muslim ban, which included not only Iran but Iraq, Syria, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen (full text here).

Iran has now banned all U.S. citizens from entering the country according to a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic of Iran this morning:

To ensure respect for the dignity of all members of the great Iranian nation at home and abroad, the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran will engage in a careful assessment of the short and medium-term impact of the decision of the U.S. Government on Iranian nationals, and will take proportionate legal, consular and political action and while respecting the American people and differentiating between them and the hostile policies of the U.S. Government  will take reciprocal measures in order to safeguard the rights of its citizens until the time of the removal of the insulting restrictions of the Government of the United States against Iranian nationals.

Most will admit it is magnanimous of the Iranian government to differentiate between the American people, most of whom did not vote for Trump, and Trump the Unready, the clear pick of Vladimir Putin, Macedonian teenagers, and FBI Director Comey.

The statement further noted a fact often raised by opponents of Trumps Muslim ban here in the U.S., that such a ban will, in fact, benefit the very forces of terrorism Trump claims to be combatting:

The decision of the Government of the United States to impose restrictions on the travel of Muslims to the United States  though temporarily for three months  is a clear insult to the Islamic world, and especially the great nation of Iran; and despite claims of being made to combat terrorism and protecting the people of the United States, it will be recorded in history as a great gift to extremists and their supporters.

Earlier today Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said at a press conference in Tehran:

Today is not the time to erect walls between nations. They have forgotten that the Berlin wall fell years ago, Rouhani said in a speech carried live on Iranian state television.

To annul world trade accords does not help their economy and does not serve the development and blooming of the world economy. This is the day for the world to get closer through trade.

Donald Trump has already proven he is not interested in blooming the world economy, and despite his claims, not the American either.

Every action has repercussions. The ACLU and other organizations have already sued Donald Trump over his Muslim ban. And now Iran has responded. Other nations are likely to follow.

President Barack Obama won his Nobel Peace Prize for a reason. he was acutely aware of that fact. Republicans, in general, have not been, and Donald Trump, in particular, seems immune to any attempts to acquaint him with the facts before he acts in the heat of passion.

If George W. Bush was infamous for his cowboy diplomacy (otherwise known as the Bush Doctrine), the only word that applies to Donald Trump is desperado because, for Trump, there is no law he does not see himself above.

Here is the full statement of the Iranian Foreign Ministry:

The decision of the Government of the United States to impose restrictions on the travel of Muslims to the United States  though temporarily for three months  is a clear insult to the Islamic world, and especially the great nation of Iran; and despite claims of being made to combat terrorism and protecting the people of the United States, it will be recorded in history as a great gift to extremists and their supporters.



While the international community needs dialogue and cooperation to address the roots of violence and extremism in a comprehensive and inclusive manner, and at a time when the United Nations General Assembly approved by consensus the proposal of the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran for a World Against Violence and Extremism (WAVE), the imprudent decision of the U.S. Government to apply collective discrimination against citizens of Muslim countries will only serve to provide a fertile ground for more terrorist recruitment by deepening the ruptures and fault-lines which have been exploited by extremist demagogues to swell their ranks with disenfranchised and marginalized youth, and further promote their campaign of hatred, violence and extremism.Moreover, with this decision, the reports of U.S. intelligence and security organs and past statements of current US officials which emphasized on the role of the United States and its regional allies in fomenting and expanding extremist groups, including Daesh (ISIL), appear to have been conveniently forgotten.



The decision of the Government of the United States to target the people of Iran and clearly insult all sections of this great nation has put on clear display the baselessness of the U.S. claims of friendship with the Iranian people while only having issues with the Government of Iran. It also shows the rancor and enmity of some in the US government and influential circles both within the United States and abroad towards all Iranians around the world: The Iranian nation who, benefiting from an ancient and rich civilization and religious beliefs founded on humanitarian values, has always promoted the message of constructive engagement, not only resisted domination but also the temptations to dominate others, and fought extremism and violence; a resilient nation which has stood firm in the face of extremist terrorists and which was among the first victims of organized terrorism; a great people which has had no presence in any extremist terrorist operation, but instead in all societies in which it has traveled or resided as scientists, students, entrepreneurs, tourists or immigrants, has been known as one of the most law abiding, cultured, educated and successful communities, thus representing its Iranian and Islamic culture and civilization in the most dignified and peace-loving manner.



To ensure respect for the dignity of all members of the great Iranian nation at home and abroad, the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran will engage in a careful assessment of the short and medium-term impact of the decision of the U.S. Government on Iranian nationals, and will take proportionate legal, consular and political action and while respecting the American people and differentiating between them and the hostile policies of the U.S. Government  will take reciprocal measures in order to safeguard the rights of its citizens until the time of the removal of the insulting restrictions of the Government of the United States against Iranian nationals.



In order to monitor the implementation of this decision and adopt appropriate measures commensurate with national interest in specific cases, a mechanism is established in the Ministry of the Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran with the participation of relevant organizations.



Meanwhile, all diplomatic and consular missions of the Islamic Republic of Iran have been instructed to prioritize the provision of consular facilities to all Iranian nationals who due to the illegal step of the Government of the United States have been prevented from returning to their places of residence, work and education.



The decision of the Government of the United States incorporates certain requests that are illegal, illogical and contrary to international law. Considering the absence of relations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States, those requests are not applicable to and cannot be accommodated by the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Any abuse by the United States of this situation to prolong the discriminatory measures and cause any further inconvenience for Iranian nationals is not only illegal but against common sense.



The Islamic Republic of Iran will carefully examine and legally pursue any negligence or violation of the international obligations of the United States under bilateral agreements and multilateral arrangements and reserves the right to respond as deemed necessary.
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While Donald Trump is busy building walls between nations, President Obamas 18-year-old daughter Malia is busily trying to tear them down.

Having traveled to Bolivia and Peru in the fall, she showed up at Park City, Utah, for the Sundance Film Festival and took part in a protest against the Dakota Access Pipeline.

According to reports, she joined approximately 100 people who gathered on Main Street at the Sundance Film Festival to let it be known how upset she was with President Trumps plan to move forward with the controversial transport system.

The group braved the blistering cold and heavy snowfall as they held up signs reading Exist. Resist. Rise. and Impeach corporate control.

After protesting in front of the Chase Bank, calling on it to divest itself, Native News Online says the protesters marched down Main Street as they sang and chanted Water is Life!

In an interview with Democracy Now, actress and activist Shailene Woodley, 25, who was arrested in October while protesting DAPL, praised Malia for taking a stand,

It was amazing to see Malia. I saw her last night when we did the event with Chairman Dave Archambault. And it was incredible to see her there.

Watch courtesy of Democracy Now:

Also, to witness a human being and a woman coming into her own outside of her family and outside of the attachments that this country has on her, but someone whos willing to participate in democracy because she chooses to, because she recognizes, regardless of her last name, that if she doesnt participate in democracy, there will be no world for her future children.

Donald Trump and his energy secretary Rick Perry both have a vested ($$$) interest in the Dakota Access Pipeline and it came as no surprise when Trump superseded Obamas orders in order to press completion of the pipeline. There is money to be made, after all.

Asked if she would have liked to see President Obama act more forcefully, Woodley told Democracy Now that,

You know, as a citizen, of course, I would say that. But Im notIm not in the White House. I dont know what obstacles that man was up againstI dont know, actually, that he could have.

There is nothing to say if Obama had acted more decisively in 2014 that we would be anywhere other than where we are now. Donald Trump would still want his pipeline. Republicans would still be just as willing to trample Native American rights and Treaty Rights. Corporate America would be as avaricious today as yesterday.

The Democratic Party needs young heroes, and of course, real heroes are those who do not think of themselves are heroes. They are just people who do what needs to be done, and Malia Obama took a stand against Trump and for Standing Rock this week, and it was heartening to see.

It was just the sort of thing democracy needs in these darkest days, and if we are to survive the specter of Trump totalitarianism, we will more need young people like Malia, willing to take a stand for what they know is right.

Photo: Twitter
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It isnt as if we didnt know it already, but Paul Ryan has joined the ranks of invertebrates, those critters a lacking a vertebral column  you know, like worms. The Wikipedia page saw the addition made and was first spotted by BuzzFeeds Alp Ozcelik.

Wikipedia notes the characteristics of invertebrates:

The trait that is common to all invertebrates is the absence of a vertebral column (backbone): this creates a distinction between invertebrates and vertebrates. The distinction is one of convenience only; it is not based on any clear biologically homologous trait, any more than the common trait of having wings functionally unites insects, bats, and birds, or than not having wings unites tortoises, snails and sponges. Being animals, invertebrates are heterotrophs, and require sustenance in the form of the consumption of other organisms. With a few exceptions, such as the Porifera, invertebrates generally have bodies composed of differentiated tissues. There is also typically a digestive chamber with one or two openings to the exterior.

Its not a flattering description but then there is very little to say about Paul Ryan that is flattering. And it is certainly accurate, as Ryan has shown himself to be completely spineless when it comes to Donald Trump. We see here Ryans stance on Trumps Muslim immigrant ban in July:

This was Ryan after Trump signed his Muslim ban:

Our number one responsibility is to protect the homeland. We are a compassionate nation, and I support the refugee resettlement program, but its time to reevaluate and strengthen the visa vetting process. This is why we passed bipartisan legislation in the wake of the Paris attacks to pause the intake of refugees. President Trump is right to make sure we are doing everything possible to know exactly who is entering our country.

As the American Enterprise Insitutes Norman Ornstein observed,



Paul Ryan has soiled himself permanently with this craven cave in to a repulsive policy that he once condemned. Shame!

New York Magazine laments the anonymous identity of the hero who made the addition: Who are you, anonymous editing hero? Will you strike again?

Though we may never know who they were, their action marks them as a person unafraid to face the truth square on and take action.
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While some major universities are advising their students that they are studying Trumps Muslim ban, the University of Michigan released a statement on Saturday that flatly refused to release the immigration status of their students. The Maize and Blue isnt playing along with Trumps Muslim prejudice.

In a statement, the University reiterated their policy on non-discrimination, privacy, and public safety:

 The University of Michigan welcomes and supports students without regard to their immigration status. We will continue to admit students in a manner consistent with our non-discrimination policy. Once students are admitted, the university is committed to fostering an environment in which each student can flourish.

 The university complies with federal requirements associated with managing its international programs. Otherwise, the university does not share sensitive information like immigration status.

 Campus police do not inquire about or record immigration status when performing their duties.

 In accordance with federal law, the enforcement of immigration law rests with Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection. Campus police will not partner with federal, state, or other local law enforcement agencies to enforce federal immigration law except when required to do so by law.

 The university maintains a strong commitment to the privacy of student records for all students, consistent with state and federal laws. We do not provide information on immigration status to anyone except when required by law.

 The university offers in-state tuition to undocumented students who meet certain conditions.

 The university offers confidential counseling services to all students.

Trumps illegal Muslim ban is an act of terror against students who are in this country legally to get an education. Universities across the country are scrambling to reassure students and prevent them from leaving the country.

International students add valuable skills to US workforces both at home and abroad. Trumps actions will damage the US economy.

More universities need to follow the lead of the University of Michigan and a take a clear and unambiguous stand against this executive order. The Trump administration is trying to create a culture of legal prejudice against Muslims. It is time to the academic world to join the resistance.

Note: If you are an international student impacted by Trumps executive order, please use the Contact Us form to share your story.
It didn't take long for US President Donald Trump's "Muslim ban" to affect someone in a realm as visible as Hollywood. Director Asghar Farhadi, who is nominated in the category of Best Foreign Film for his movie The Salesman, will be unable to enter the United States for the Oscars next month because he is a citizen of Iran, one of the seven countries Trump has included in the 90-day immigration ban he has ordered.

Trita Parsi, leader of the National Iranian American Council, tweeted confirmation that Farhadi would be affected by the ban:

The American film community has spoken out in support of Farhadi, who became the first Iranian to win the Oscar for Best Foreign Film in 2012 for his film A Separation. Director Ava DuVernay, as well as Tribeca Film Festival, have expressed their dismay at the news and are decrying the immigration ban, which explicitly targets "Muslim-majority" countries.





The executive order, signed Friday, closes U.S. borders to all refugees for the next 120 days and from Syria indefinitely, as well as suspending the granting of all visas for travelers coming from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen for the next 90 days.

The ban is not only affecting temporary visitors to the U.S. seeking visas, but permanent residents (green card holders) as well. U.S. permanent residents from the seven banned countries are being advised not to leave to U.S., as they may be denied re-entryeven if they have lived and worked in the U.S. for years.

Though the order was supposedly made in an attempt to thwart Islamist terrorism, and Trump reportedly cited the 9/11 attacks, the United Arab Emirates, Lebanon, Egypt, and Saudia Arabiawhere the attackers involved in 9/11 came fromare not included in the ban. In fact, in the last 40 years, there have been no deaths on American soil caused by immigrant terrorists from any of those seven countries. As Vox reports, 98.6% of deaths by immigrant attacks came from 9/11. Beyond that, American deaths at the hand of immigrants are exceedingly rarea chance of one in 3.6 million.

Trump has explicitly targeted Muslims and predominantly Muslim countries on account of fears of Islamic terrorism, despite the fact that the most recent ISIS-related mass killing, the Pulse nightclub shooting in June, was committed by a U.S.-born citizen. Human rights organizations, including the ACLU and International Rescue Committee, have decried the executive order as "officially sanctioned religious persecution dressed up to look like an effort to make the United States safer" according to the New York Times.

While it's unfair and frustrating that Farhadi will be unable to attend the Oscars ceremony, this is certainly only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the effects of the Muslim ban, which ironically was signed on Holocaust Remembrance Day, prompting Twitter user @Stl_manifest to highlight Jewish refugees who were denied entry to the U.S., only to perish in concentration camps back in Europe. The worst effects of racial and religious discrimination have only just begun for immigrants and asylum seekers suffering from atrocities around the world.




Charleston, SC (29403)

Today

Clouds and some sun this morning with more clouds for this afternoon. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 81F. Winds SE at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy skies. Low 69F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph.
Actress Sarah J. Eagen, formerly of Rochester and now living in Los Angeles, seems to always be doing something new and exciting.

This year is no different. "The Breakout: A Rock Opera," a musical film Eagen was a choreographer for and briefly appeared in, is now available on Amazon.

It was "a fantastic project to work on," Eagen said. "I met with director Jenn Page about two very different dance numbers that she had in her head, and her vision became so clear in my mind. I've had the pleasure of working with her as both an actor and choreographer before, and I'm always struck by her passion and the seemingly effortless way she brings out the best in her team.

"Jenn did a great job of gathering a diverse cast and crew, which I believe is essential," Eagen said. "Everyone was so happy to be there, and they worked hard to bring the story to life."

As if acting and choreographing aren't enough, Sarah has been dipping her toes into writing as well.

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"I wrote two pilots last year, and I'm in the middle of writing a third," she said. "A lot of actors have been writing roles for themselves  Mindy Kaling, Rachel Bloom  and that is becoming more and more what I see myself doing.  Unfortunately, women are still underrepresented in the writer's room."

She described an exchange she had with a famous female writer  she would not name her, except to say that she has been writing on one of the most popular TV sitcoms for the last six years or so.

"I saw (her) speak last summer, and wrote her a letter thanking her for sharing her insights," Eagen said. "She asked to meet with me to chat more. It was a fantastic meeting, and really inspiring to hear from a woman who is writing regularly."

For the latest on Eagen, check out her website, www.sarahjeagen.com , and check out "The Breakout" here: seethebreakout.com.

A little fun on the side

Local makeup artist Katie Kirckofwas in Dubai earlier this month to attend a Makeup Masterclass with celebrity makeup artist Mario Dedivanovic and Kim Kardashian.

"Kim had a makeup class in California a few years ago and the VIP tickets sold out in seconds, and since I was working I couldn't grab the tickets," Kirckof said. "So when my husband asked what I wanted for my birthday, I said, "Well, this might be a little much, but can I go to Dubai and meet Kim Kardashian?'"

The Masterclass was a day-long event. "Anyone could attend," Kirckof said. "It wasn't just for makeup artists, and Kim was the model for the class. She is so beautiful in person, she doesn't even need any makeup!"

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"A lot of the techniques, I already use because I've been trained by some of the best makeup artists all over the world, but he did have some amazing techniques on how to make natural makeup last longer," Kirckof siad. "The whole experience was really great for me and brought things back to my roots.

Here's my favorite part of her trip: When she first got to meet Kardashian and have a picture taken with her, Katie did something that only Katie would do.

"I noticed everyone was taking their picture with her on her right side," Kirckof said. "If anyone knows me, they know I look the same in every picture with how I pose, and that it has to be my left side. So I just said to her, 'Kim, I love and respect you so much. HOWEVER  that's not my side, and I shouldn't take a picture with you like that, I have to stand over here."

And she stood on the other side of Kim's makeup artist, instead of right next to Kim!
Dodge

K-M declines ZED funding request

KASSON -- The Kasson-Mantorville School Board will not be going forward with a new Zumbro Education District area learning center at this time.

The board voted unanimously against the resolution at its meeting Monday. The current facility in Byron is aging and is increasingly unable to handle its 100-plus students. K-M is being asked to contribute $3.82 million to a new ALC. The council has concerns about the cost, as well as its relationship with the ZED board.

Wabasha

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Forest Day set for Feb. 10

MILLVILLE -- Wabasha Forestry Day will be held Feb. 10 at the Millville Valley American Legion.

It will include speakers from the Department of Natural Resources, Minnesota Department of Agriculture, University of Minnesota Forestry and others.

The program begins at 10 a.m. and costs $10. Contact Mark Miller at 651-345-3216 or Jen Wahls at 651-565-4573 ext. 109 to pre-register.

Goodhue

Zumbrota approves treatment plant repairs

ZUMBROTA -- A wastewater treatment plant in Zumbrota is in need of replacements of its plant bar screen and trickling filter, the city council learned from City Engineer Bill Angerman.

The damage stems from flooding in fall 2016, as well as a ferric acid spill at DairiConcepts in summer 2016.

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The council unanimously agreed to go forward with replacing the parts. Funds from the city will come from the Sewer Capital Projects Fund, although it will at least partially be funded from other sources.

Winona

Social justice expert to present on Monday

WINONA -- Winona State University will host social justice expert Jason Sole for a workshop and a speech on Monday.

Sole is a professor at Metropolitan State University and offers help to justice agencies through his firm, Jason Sole Consulting. He will speak on school-to-prison issues and the Black Lives Matter movement.

His workshop will be presented at 1 p.m. His keynote address is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m.

Contact Dia Yang at dyang@winona.edu to attend.
MANKATO  Hawwaa Ibrahim is running on about four hours of sleep.

She stayed up late, late, late working on her dress for a high school dance  which she just decided to make last night.

It's a red satin romper with a deep-V neckline, sequins up the sides and a tulle peplum that grazes the floor.

"I don't think anyone else will have a jumpsuit like this," Ibrahim laughs, adjusting the pancake-sized sequins on the coordinating faux-fur coat.

Ibrahim is a senior at Mankato West High School in Mankato, population 41,000. There aren't a lot of formal red satin rompers running around there  or anywhere else. Ibrahim's creation is hers alone. And while designing and sewing a dress on a whim  in just under eight hours  isn't a typical Friday night for your average 17-year-old, Ibrahim has become an expert under pressure. Audiences across the country have been watching her speed through design projects on "Project Runway Junior."

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The show, which is the high school spin-off of the wildly popular "Project Runway" with Tim Gunn, was filmed in New York City this summer. Now, halfway through the airing of the show's second season, Ibrahim has made it through five high-pressure, nail-biting, sequin-filled runway showdowns without being voted off.

The format is simple: The 12 young designers on the show, who range in age from 14 to 17, are given a fashion assignment and just over a day to design it, sew it, style it and send it down the runway on a model. But this isn't "Make a dress for your high school dance." Think: "Make an avant-garde dress inspired by fencing armor" or "Incorporate LED lights into your outfit."

At one point, Ibrahim found herself snatching an inflatable watermelon out of a pool so she could deflate it and turn the bright vinyl material into a jacket. Things get crazy.

Now, back in Mankato, Ibrahim knows the outcome of the show, but she can't tell anyone. She has to sit down every Thursday night, with her mom and her high school friends  even her A.P. Government teacher is watching these days  and watch her summer unfold all over again, this time with edits.

FASCINATED WITH FASHION

Ibrahim lives with her mom and her siblings in a ground-floor apartment in Mankato. She became fascinated with fashion when she was 12 after watching the adult version of "Project Runway" on TV. Two years later, her mom bought her a sewing machine. Now, she said, everything she knows, she's learned from YouTube: "I YouTubed 'How to make pants,' 'How to put elastic in a skirt, 'How to make a sleeve.'"

Her work area is her bedroom floor.

"I do everything on the floor: cutting, patterning, measuring, ironing  all on the floor. There's not a lot of space," she said. "I got used to it."

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Ibrahim describes her style as a mix of vintage and retro, with splashes of modern color. Her face is punctuated with piercings  a nose ring, two lip studs. ("I used to have more," she said, laughing.) And when she's all done up, her eyebrows sparkle with a thick, bright, craft store layer of glitter. She even has a YouTube tutorial on how to achieve that fierce brow look.

Topping it off is her hijab, which sparked a fervor on social media, she said, once the show started airing. Some people don't understand why she wears it, while others don't realize it has to do with her religion.

"I think when a lot of people think of people in hijabs, or Muslims, they think they're confined to one thing and they can don't anything normal people do," Ibrahim said. "It was nice to show people that I'm human, and I can do whatever I want. That's the way I was thinking about it on the show: I have to show people that I'm as normal  well, not that normal  but as normal as anyone else."

In her bedroom, she's tacked a pencil drawing of Marilyn Monroe blowing a bubble to the wall. On her sketch is Monroe's famous quote: "Being normal is boring."

Fashion is the clothes

Ibrahim was excited that the show also gave her an opportunity to design wild, innovative designs that are still modest, challenging the fashion-world stereotype that taking risks means getting risque.

"I think with fashion, people think you have to show a certain amount of skin to be sexy," Ibrahim said. "I think that's unnecessary, because fashion is the clothes. So why are you showing your body so much? I think you can still be fashionable without showing too much skin."

Getting out of Minnesota for the show last summer was a tantalizing taste of what Ibrahim hopes is her future: living and designing in New York City. She's planning to finish school this year and find a job to save money for college. She'd like to major in fashion or business.

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She'd also like to live somewhere slightly more fashionable than Mankato.

"Minnesota is OK, but it's boring," she said into the camera on the show's opening episode. It's hard to be fashionable, after all, when you're hiding everything you wear under a giant parka.

"In the winter, I'm like: There's no point," Ibrahim said. Fashion "doesn't even matter, because you don't want to die of frostbite, so you just throw on your coat and hat."

Her latest project  a mini-collection displayed on mannequins in the corner of her room  is inspired by candy; she loves the bright pops of color. And she hopes to launch her online store soon, where she plans to sell T-shirts and other original designs. People on social media have been flooding her with requests. But first, she has to study: Reality TV doesn't get you out of finals.

On Thursday night, she'll sit down to watch the next episode of the show with her family, including her mom, who "gets way into it," Ibrahim said. "She's all over it, saying what was good and what was bad, and that the judges don't know what they're talking about it."

How else is a mom supposed to handle watching her teenage daughter on television?

"I'm happy she's enjoying it," Ibrahim laughed.

It's odd to watch herself on TV, she said, and to see the final cuts of episodes, even though she was there when it all happened. When she sees her designs going down the runway, she dreams of going back to New York, of finding that design internship, of having money to buy more fabric.

But then, of course, she remembers: "You have to go to school tomorrow."
Mike Hildenbrand might be new to city government, but the freshly sworn-in Pine Island City Council member said he's heard this old yarn before: You can't make money on outdoor city pools in Minnesota.

The municipal pool swimming season lasts about three months  from the close of the school year until the week before Labor Day. Pools are built a quality of life amenities in small towns, not for-profit ventures, so pool memberships and fees are priced for families. That limited plan for revenues comes up against operating expenses that include chemicals for health, and labor for safety and management that are not cheap.

Hildenbrand, along with his fellow council members and Pine Island Mayor Rod Steele, are under the gun to make a decision about what kind of pool will be part of the city's future. In November, voters approved a referendum for a bond of up to $2.4 million to fix or replace the aging Pine Island swimming pool.

The pool construction season begins after Labor Day. So, for Pine Island, the clock is ticking to get a plan in place.

The current pool has been dogged for years as noncompliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act because it offered no access to those in wheelchairs. While this was fixed last summer with the purchase of a chair lift  which was used once all summer, Steele said  the pool also leaks water at a costly rate and has none of the features such as slides or any of the spray or splash add-ons that make a pool more like a water park.

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Like many swimming holes in Southeast Minnesota, Pine Island's 1956-era pool leaks cash. City administrator David Todd said that during the last three years the pool has lost an average of $72,457 annually in operating expenses, with an $82,138 bucket of red ink in 2014.

DOWN THE DRAIN

The pool in Pine Island isn't alone in losing cash. Pools in Byron and Cannon Falls also face significant shortfalls in operating money each year.

Byron's pool, built in 1987, over the last several years has lost $25,500 on average in operating expenses, said City Administrator Mary Blair-Hoeft. One of its best years financially was 2014 when the pool was closed for repairs.

"Three or four years ago we had a committee that met with a pool designer," she said. After some informational hearings and questions about adding an indoor pool to the school, the subject was dropped. "The cost of that ... seemed to be more then a city of 5,000 could bear in taxes."

Cannon Falls chips in a little more than $50,000 annually in operating expenses for its 57-year-old pool, said City Administrator Ron Johnson.

"It's in operable shape," he said, admitting that is a charitable description of the pool. The city spent more than $35,000 in 2014 to upgrade pumps and other equipment.

Johnson admitted the pool and bath house do not meet ADA standards. With no chair lift, no zero-depth access and tight squeezes everywhere from the locker room to the parking lot, Johnson said he was surprised the state had not issued the city any warnings on its ADA issues.

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On Jan. 17, the Cannon Falls City Council re-established a park board for the city. Part of that board's job will be to address issues with the pool, Johnson said. That could include recommendations for a referendum. The city asked voters to approve a $4.25 million referendum for an aquatic center in 2014, but voters rejected that proposal by a 3-to-1 ratio.

"Something's got to be done," Johnson said. "It's been almost three years since that election."

At the time of the referendum in 2014, Mayor Robby Robinson said the aquatic center would have created a revenue stream for the city.

TREADING WATER

With so many pools losing so much money, Robinson's hope of swimming in pool cash  or at least staying afloat  seems to fly in the face of cash flow and conventional wisdom. But not all pools are complete money pits.

Kasson's aquatic center, built in 2013, cost the city $3.2 million and did not include items such as tables and lounge chairs, said City Administrator Theresa Coleman. The debt service on the pool bond costs the city $225,000 a year through 2028, but the operating loss for the pool has dropped significantly.

Before the new aquatic center was built, the city's old pool averaged nearly $57,000 in the red from 2010 to 2012. While the new pool lost $106,666 in its initial partial season in 2013 and $58,627 in its first full year, the pool essentially broke even between 2015 and 2016, Coleman said.

Kasson isn't the only pool with black ink for the ledger. Barb Neubauer, finance director for Stewartville, said the city's pool has operated above water every year except 2016, when the city's annual contribution of $35,000 was dipped into to the tune of about $14,000. In all other years, the city's operating funds have gone toward future improvements and repairs, an account that sits at about $192,000.

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Still, in both cities, when the bond is added in, the pool is a financial loss. But with pools being an important part of a small city's profile, City Administrator Bill Schimmel said Stewartville's pool, like Byron's and even pools losing money in operating expenses, is worth the investment.

"Most outdoor pools in Minnesota are more of a quality of life issue than a moneymaking venture," he said. And Stewartville's pool makes the city stand out. "We get great attendance, not only from local residents but based on the buses and vans, the surrounding region as well."
MINNEAPOLIS  A push to get a minimum wage increase in front of Minneapolis voters fizzled last year, but with mayoral and city council elections ahead this fall, backers say the time is right to act.

Strong support remains among city leaders to raise the current $9.50 an hour state minimum to as much as $15 an hour. There's equally strong pushback from some business owners, especially restaurateurs who say it will drastically raise operating costs.

A higher wage is likely to pass the council this year, Mayor Betsy Hodges told the city's chamber of commerce this week.

"The reality is Minneapolis is going to go it alone," said Hodges, who'd initially pushed for a regional minimum wage approach. "Like it or not, there is enough support on the City Council to raise a Minneapolis-only minimum wage."

Hodges' newfound support for the city-only measure comes as she prepares for what is shaping up to be a tough re-election bid this fall. The DFLer is facing challenges from at least four other candidates, including civil rights activist Nekima Levy-Pounds and City Council Member Jacob Frey.

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City leaders had a chance last year to put a citywide minimum wage of $15 an hour on the ballot. However, city attorney Susan Segal argued against it saying a minimum wage charter amendment likely wasn't legal but a regular ordinance would be. The council backed her view, turning aside the ballot effort.

The Minnesota Supreme Court ruled later that the City Council has sole legislative authority in Minneapolis and the wage measure wasn't eligible to be decided by voters. Still, it left many minimum wage increase backers bitter.

City officials directed staff to study the issue with an eye toward drafting an ordinance, and to talk to people it would affect.

$9.50 an hour is not enough

In listening sessions, many citizens made it clear that they can't live on the current $9.50 an hour state minimum wage.

At a public meeting Tuesday night at a Latino mall on Lake Street, restaurant worker Ignacia Ambriz said $9.50 an hour is far too low to cover her basic expenses.

"Nine-fifty, $10, $11, it's just not making it," she said. "We're just not going to make it to pay our bills."

However, at a separate public comment meeting Wednesday, Dennis Curran, owner of a Nicollet Avenue restaurant popular with seniors, said he'd have to raise his menu prices 25 percent.

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"The last time we had a minimum wage [increase], this elderly woman came in and she was in tears and she said, 'Dennis, I'm not going to be able to eat here anymore,' because I had to raise the price," Curran said, adding, "please consider the senior citizens. Don't leave them out."

Steve Vranicar, who manages a Kowalski's grocery store in far south Minneapolis, said higher city wages will mean higher prices, and that'll send customers over the border to Bloomington, Richfield and other suburbs that will have a competitive advantage.

That's the reason Hodges preferred a regional approach. But with Republicans taking control of the Minnesota legislature, Hodges says the path to a higher state or metro-area wage is far narrower.

Hodges this week didn't say how much the city's minimum wage should be, but added that it should apply equally to all businesses, with no exemption for tipped workers.

Besides the coming elections, supporters of a $15 minimum wage believe the power shift at the state Capitol makes passing a local ordinance all the more urgent.

State Rep. Jerry Hertaus, R-Greenfield, has introduced a bill that would prohibit cities from setting their own minimum wages. While unlikely to make it past the veto pen of DFL Gov. Mark Dayton, the legislation signaled how increasingly complicated the Minneapolis wage issue could become.

"The representative government that we have sends us here to make those types of decisions and people want to do an end-run around the Legislature and go do it at the city council level," Hertaus said. "I just think that that's inherently unfair for the business community, who's trying to stay in business and create jobs."
MINNEAPOLIS  Some 9,300 Volkswagen diesels have been driving around the state over the years, spewing an extra 600 tons of nitrogen oxides into the air.

That contributes to ground-level ozone, which can exacerbate respiratory conditions like asthma and COPD.

Now, Minnesota has a chance to eliminate 600 tons of NOx through the federal government's settlement with Volkswagen over its emissions scandal.

The state is set to receive nearly $47 million to mitigate the pollution Volkswagen diesel vehicles wrongfully emitted.

Here's what you need to know about the settlement:

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How can the money be spent?

Most of the money must be spent on making diesel vehicles run cleaner or converting diesel vehicles to run on electricity, natural gas or propane, which would dramatically reduce nitrogen oxide emissions.

States have to tell a federally appointed trustee how they intend to spend the money before the money starts flowing. That process could take many months. Besides mitigating pollution from diesel vehicles, 15 percent of the sum can be spent on electric vehicle infrastructure.

How much pollution can you prevent with $47 million?

Minnesota Pollution Control Agency officials are confident they will be able to go beyond the 600 tons of nitrogen oxide required by the settlement. They'll do that by asking businesses and local governments if they'd be willing to share the cost of converting diesel fleet vehicles to natural gas, propane or electricity. It's a complicated calculation.

It costs a lot of money for a brand-new electric truck or bus. But if your company was planning to replace its fleet soon anyway, this is a way to upgrade to something cleaner and tap some public money to make the switch.

Another part of the calculation is how much money could be saved over time on fuel and maintenance.

Electric vehicles are said to be cheaper to maintain, for instance. On the other hand, if a company is looking to replace its entire fleet of diesel trucks for electric ones, state officials would weigh the emissions per dollar saved compared to replacing a giant, dirty diesel engine like a locomotive or tugboat.

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Besides getting the most emissions reductions for its dollars, what else is the state considering?

The settlement requires spending decisions to consider environmental justice factors.

For instance, if one proposal called for replacing a fleet of diesel vehicles operating in the outer suburbs and a similar proposal called for replacing a fleet of vehicles operating in a low-income community of color in the urban core, the latter project would likely get the funding.

Air pollution has been shown to disproportionately affect certain communities, and health disparities can exacerbate those circumstances. For example, a ZIP code that includes a large part of north Minneapolis, a low-income community of color, has the highest asthma hospitalization rate in the state, according to the Minnesota Department of Health.

I own a VW diesel car. Can I get money from the state?

No. The state's portion of the settlement is actually just a small part of a giant sum negotiated by the federal government. The bulk of that is going to VW car owners to trade their cars in or get them fixed.

Could the Legislature get involved in the spending of the state's VW settlement funds?

It could, but there are specific requirements on how the money can be spent, so lawmakers won't be able to use it for the state budget, for instance. MPCA officials are asking anyone with questions or comments about how the money will be distributed to contact them.

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Will this settlement help Minnesota address greenhouse gas emissions linked to climate change?

Not directly. Burning gasoline and diesel does release greenhouse gases, but the pollutants at the center of the VW settlement are nitrogen oxides (NOx). But some of the actions supported by the settlement, such as converting diesel vehicles to electric vehicles and adding electric vehicle infrastructure could also help the state reduce greenhouse gases  as long as the electricity being produced to run those vehicles is not carbon-intensive. Transportation emissions are the second largest source of Minnesota's greenhouse gas emissions, and a recent study shows the number of vehicle miles traveled in the state has gone up in recent years.
As you may have noticed, we're experiencing what might politely be called a tumultuous moment in our nation's politics and that has people feeling angry, defensive, outraged, elated and, in some cases, mean-spiritedly cocky.

There was a time when turmoil of this sort might not have mattered as much in the working world, back when the primary means of spouting a political opinion was via mouth. That would often temper opinion-spouting, as face-to-face debates tend to be more civil.

But now we have social media and, as evidenced by a number of stories over the past week, political opinions or jokes can easily get out of hand and damage careers.

I'll get to those examples in a moment, but first let me say this: Everyone has the right to say, tweet or blog what they want. That's freedom of speech. But freedom of speech is often mistaken for freedom from consequences, and working people are guaranteed no such thing.

The legal parameters get murky, but if you're posting comments that are racist, sexist, xenophobic, bigoted or just plain vile and somebody connects you to your company or organization, then you are, by association, making that company or organization look bad. And you may well find yourself out of a job.

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To which I say, "Good." Given the level of vitriol and hideous garbage that gets spewed online these days, I'm in favor of companies taking stronger steps to show that words come with consequences. I don't mean managers should be policing workers' social media accounts, but if an employee is reported for trolling people online or engaging in political rants that go far beyond the norms of civil discourse, that person's company should make clear what it considers acceptable.

Again, that's not restricting freedom of speech. You have a right to free speech, but you don't have a right to a job that will tolerate you posting material that could damage a company's reputation or workplace morale.

Let's review some related news that has popped up in the wake of President Donald Trump's inauguration.

A suburban Chicago school board member resigned after posting a string of wildly sexist tweets regarding the women's marches in Washington, D.C., and across the country. One tweet read: "Most of these vagina screechers didn't vote, but they mean business. Riiiiiiiight. What a farce."

Other tweets referred to marching women as a "Procession of Palpable Penis Envy" and one read: "Alas, the 300 million pound Women March provides a strong argument for doing away with women's suffrage."

The author of these tweets, Dathan Paterno, is founder and clinical director of Park Ridge Psychological Services, which was subsequently eviscerated on Yelp by people who were rightly offended and shocked that a mental health professional would spout off in such a way.

In Texas, a principal is in trouble with her school district after writing a Facebook post calling Trump a "moron" and describing his Cabinet as being made up of "non-qualified white males."

After parents complained about the post, district officials launched an investigation to determine whether Diaka Carter, who is black, may have violated the district's social media policy.

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A writer for "Saturday Night Live," Katie Rich, was suspended from the show after sending out a tweet making a joke about Trump's 10-year-old son, Barron. Rich wrote that "Barron will be this country's first homeschool shooter."

She was suspended indefinitely and issued an apology.

Nebraska state Sen. Bill Kintner stepped down this week following outrage over a tweet he shared relating to the women's marches. (He was already in hot water for a previous cybersex scandal.)

Kintner retweeted someone else's tweet that made light of sexual assault, suggesting the appearance of women marching at the protest events would keep them "safe."

He was one of several male Republican lawmakers across the country who sent inappropriate tweets and Facebook posts relating to the marches. They apparently don't understand that social media isn't private, and that there's such a thing as basic human decency.

I think one of the problems we have is that there are working people who get paid to express opinions. I'm one of them, but even with this job I have to be careful to not let my opinions or jokes or rants go too far.

And then there are working people who get paid to do other things. But because of social media and the internet in general, everyone is tempted to broadcast an opinion. And many of those people don't understand that there is a place called "too far."

When you're a working person or a representative of any organization and you reach "too far," the road splits in two.

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One way is unfettered freedom of speech, and you can take that road as far you want to go.

The other way is continued employment, and that road lets you speak your mind within reason while still getting a paycheck.

You can map your own route. But if I'm giving directions, I'll point you toward that second road every time.

Rex Huppke is a columnist with the Chicago Tribune.
Before Donald Trump took office, foreign governments excused his heedless foreign policy rhetoric in hopes he would become more responsible in the White House.

Hope gone. Trump's belligerent insistence that Mexico pay for a wall, which provoked public outrage and government denials south of the border, forced Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto to cancel a crucial visit to Washington. Trump's economic and military threats toward China risk provoking an armed confrontation with Beijing.

But nothing better illustrates the dangers to U.S. interests and security posed by the president's careless rhetoric than his continued repetition of his longtime mantra: We should "take" Iraq's oil.

If Americans had seized Iraqi oil after the 2003 invasion "you wouldn't have ISIS," insists Trump, claiming jihadists wouldn't have been able to finance their caliphate. (Never mind nearly all Iraqi oil lies outside the area seized by ISIS or that ISIS funding comes from many other sources).

"So we should have kept the oil," the president told a CIA audience last week, "but OK. Maybe we'll have another chance." In other words, Trump still hopes to get his hands on Iraq's oil riches.

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Such talk will not only undercut the battle against ISIS at a critical moment, it will endanger the lives of U.S. troops.

"There is nothing Trump could have said that would be more corrosive to our interests in the Middle East," says Ryan Crocker, the distinguished former U.S. ambassador to Baghdad. And nothing that so displays the president's ignorance of Middle East history and dynamics.

"This talk of seizing oil is a clarion call to anti-U.S. forces," Crocker told me, "because it plays to the myth that we were in Iraq to take their oil. Oil is the sacred touchstone of Iraqi sovereignty and independence. From 2003 all the way to Donald Trump we made clear that we understood that.

"Now Iraqis will believe that seizing oil is U.S. policy. Trump has made the myth come true."

In 2003, I got a similar message from Philip Carroll, a onetime U.S. CEO of Royal Dutch Shell, who served as top U.S. adviser to the Iraqi oil sector. He stressed the importance of leaving all decisions on oil to a sovereign Iraqi government. This key tenet of international law is of critical importance to U.S. oil companies seeking contracts in Iraq and the region.

Carroll also said respect for Arab sovereignty over oil was vital for Mideast stability. After all, the United States went to war against Saddam Hussein in 1991 because he violated international law by invading Kuwait to seize that country's oil fields.

In his ABC interview, Trump sneered at critics who cite international law, demanding, "Who are the critics who say that? I call them fools." Does Trump really want to imitate Saddam Hussein?

But there are other crucial reasons why the idea of seizing Iraqi oil fields is delusional. Arab governments still remember European colonial efforts to seize the region's oil nearly a century ago. State-owned oil assets are the crown jewels in many Arab countries.

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For President Trump to raise the specter of colonialism, with America as the aggressor, will alienate our Arab allies in the fight against ISIS. To do so when U.S. troop are fighting alongside Iraqi soldiers in the battle for Mosul is irresponsible. It can inspire Iraqi violence against American soldiers.

"If I were a U.S. field commander in Iraq I'd pull my troops back to barracks," Crocker said, clearly furious that the president would needlessly put U.S. soldiers' lives at risk. If such an attack occurs, he said, "Donald Trump will be to blame."

All the more so since Trump has just insulted Baghdad and Iraqis by including Iraq among a list of predominantly Muslim countries whose citizens will be temporarily banned from obtaining U.S. visas, although the country is supposed to be our ally.

Americans may not realize that the new president's rhetoric is trumpeted around the Mideast, on TV and social media. Iranian-backed militias and Sunni Islamists will amplify Trump's threat to Iraqi oil. Iran's ayatollahs must be chuckling, as President Trump provides them with quotable "evidence" of America's evil intent.

In the past week, the president has spoken of possibly reinstating waterboarding, saying "it works." He wants to slash U.N. funding, along with refugee visas for those fleeing ISIS.

Torture, oil, visas, refugees  all these presidential proposals will only inspire new jhihadis, whether in Europe, America, or elsewhere. "Trump has become the recruiter in chief for ISIS," says Crocker.

It all makes one wonder who on earth, if anyone, is briefing President Trump.

It can't be Secretary of State designate Rex Tillerson; as an oilman he would have warned Trump off of his delusions. It can't be Defense Secretary James Mattis, who is much too smart. If it is White House advisers Steve Bannon and/or Michael Flynn, we should all be very afraid.

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Or perhaps these ideas all come from Trump, who refuses intelligence briefings and brags he knows everything he needs to know. Let's hope Mattis or sane GOP senators can persuade him he needs more input.

Otherwise the country should brace for foreign policy disasters  caused by the same heedlessness with which the president calls for the seizure of Iraq's oil.

Trudy Rubin is a columnist for the Philadelphia Inquirer.
How can life go on? was the theme of this years Holocaust Memorial Day, a national commemoration day in the United Kingdom dedicated to the remembrance of those who suffered in the Holocaust, under Nazi Persecution, and in subsequent genocides in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur.

About 77 years ago, World War II ravaged most of Europe, displacing thousands of families, and killing 6 million Jews.

Last Friday, Notre Dame High School decided to honor the victims and remember the atrocities by turning the Talofofo school into a museum.

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Not a lot of our kids have the opportunity to go off-island to go visit Auschwitchz or any other concentration camps, said Mia Concepcion, an English teacher at ND. This is an opportunity for them to not only experience different elements of the Holocaust, but to be responsible in their own learning too."

After teaching the famous Holocaust book Night by Elie Wiesel for four years, and with the cherished authors recent passing last year, Concepcion decided to commemorate Wiesel and victims and survivors of the Holocaust.

For me it was just like 'Okay, we have to continue telling this story because thats what he dedicated his life to, Concepcion said. Its not pretty and its not rainbows or sunshine, but I think the students realize that in order to prevent atrocities like this, they have to face it head on.

Cross-curricular project

Getting the whole school involved, Concepcion got together with fellow school department chairs and administrators to coordinate the days event, a month-long brainstorming process that led up to the school-wide transformation to a museum.

It was truly a testament to teamwork, the search for knowledge, and a willingness to learn and hear about other peoples stories, Concepcion said. It shows kids that every class theyre in has a place in the real world, a place in how we live our lives in our past, our present, and our future. Theres so much active learning going on, and its an experience where they get to teach each other as well.

Applying all subjects and class lessons to the event, a cross-curricular approach allowed the school to showcase different ways to look at the tragedy, by creating different outlets of information and different experiences for students.

It was our first time doing something like this, but I could see how everyones work made it informational, touching and engaging, said Mariesha Cruz-San Nicolas, principal of Notre Dame. While the Holocaust was the main theme, all subjects were able to come together to highlight many aspects of learning. It all invoked so much empathy, so many feelings that now were able to respect our neighbors better, and we appreciate our freedoms more."

Honoring the brave

The school had all classes participate, from art classes drawing pictures of the Holocaust in their eyes, to science classes researching how different experiments contributed to tragic deaths. Speech classes were assigned to recite different Holocaust victim/survivor poems and journals; English classes reproduced famous quotes about Holocaust, and math classes set up a cattle car, made to fit large amounts of people in a tight space.

Other detailed projects included the number 6,000,000 carved out in posters, which contained the names and pictures of numerous Holocaust victims, and nearly 600 shoes lined up on the school gyms bleachers, representative of other Holocaust victims, shoes temporarily donated by students.

When people actually take the time to look and see that there are faces and stories, and that there are families, it really does affect them. This is our way of honoring them, by recognizing their existence and recognizing their spirit of hope and resilience.

With this year's theme, Concepcion said the overall goal was for students to look at how hope plays a part in tragedy, a different take to teaching the Holocaust, widely set on horrific pictures.

It would be easy to just show all of these horrifying graphics, images and videos, but at the end of it, what does it really teach the kids? Concepcion said. The stuff theyre looking at is heavy, its not easy to look at, and its not stuff you look at in your free time, but if the kids can learn from it  and if they can realize that at the end of all of it there was hope  then weve met our goal.

Reflections on life

Concepcion noted how much quieter her students were  an oddity for high school students  recognizing the solemnity the students were faced with in experiencing the Holocausts events second-hand.

Its very different than the stuff we usually do, its definitely more meaningful, said Nicholas Topasna, a senior at ND. I think it taught a lot of us to be thankful for what we have because things back then were much harder than anything were experiencing now.

Ahmyia Cacapit, another senior at ND, said her class worked on a class-sized walkthrough timeline of the Holocaust and that having the events laid out in their hands made the event seem more real, showcasing detailed accounts of the time.

It was an eye-opener, especially since people are so fixated on improvements or what we don't have rather than the blessings they have in front of them, Cacapit said. I realized how fortunate I am to have a safe environment not just to learn about these events but to grow from them as well. I'm thankful that I can never fully comprehend the extent of the tragedy because I'm fortunate to live in a world as acceptable as one today.
President Trump began to fulfill one of his signal campaign promises yesterday with the promulgation of an executive order addressing immigration from Muslim countries. The New York Times has posted the text of the executive order here.

The order proceeds through a series of cross-reference to other laws that renders it incomprehensible on its own terms. Perhaps improvidently, I take the summary of the orders operative provisions by Michael Shear and Helene Cooper in the New York Times at face value. See also Carol Morellos Washington Post story on the order.

According to Shear and Cooper, the order suspends the entry of refugees into the United States for 120 days, and Syrians indefinitely. It also suspends immigration from seven Muslim countries for only 90 days, while allegedly ordering priority be given to visas for Christians from Muslim nations (I dont see the religious preference set forth in the text of the order). The seven Muslim countries are Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen.

Shear and Cooper want to imply that differentiation among faiths for the purposes of the order is unconstitutional. They write: Mr. Trump also established a religious test for refugees from Muslim nations: He ordered that Christians and others from minority religions be granted priority over Muslims. The Constitution, however, only bars religious tests for office or public trust. (More here.)

Might there be a reasonable basis for distinguishing among faiths for purposes of granting visas, refugee status, naturalization and immigration generally? Shear and Cooper dont raise the question. Indeed, Shear and Cooper argue stupidly with the order throughout their story on it. They cant help themselves.

Information is to be gathered, reviewed and summarized during the periods of suspension so that policy can be conformed to the national interest of the United States. Indeed, the order focuses throughout on the national interest of the United States, as in this provision that will never be quoted in a New York Times story:

Sec. 1: In order to protect Americans, the United States must ensure that those admitted to this country do not bear hostile attitudes toward it and its founding principles. The United States cannot, and should not, admit those who do not support the Constitution, or those who would place violent ideologies over American law. In addition, the United States should not admit those who engage in acts of bigotry or hatred (including honor killings, other forms of violence against women, or the persecution of those who practice religions different from their own) or those who would oppress Americans of any race, gender, or sexual orientation.

You mean we arent already doing this? We must be out of our minds.

Sec. 2. Policy. It is the policy of the United States to protect its citizens from foreign nationals who intend to commit terrorist attacks in the United States; and to prevent the admission of foreign nationals who intend to exploit United States immigration laws for malevolent purposes.

You mean we arent already doing this? We must be out of our minds.

Despite its difficulty, the order is worth reviewing in its entirety. The following provision, for example, should resonate with citizens of sound mind:

It is the policy of the executive branch that, to the extent permitted by law and as practicable, State and local jurisdictions be granted a role in the process of determining the placement or settlement in their jurisdictions of aliens eligible to be admitted to the United States as refugees. To that end, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall examine existing law to determine the extent to which, consistent with applicable law, State and local jurisdictions may have greater involvement in the process of determining the placement or resettlement of refugees in their jurisdictions, and shall devise a proposal to lawfully promote such involvement.

With Minnesotas ever growing community of Somali immigrants and refugees, we find the order hitting close to home. The Star Tribune collects critical comments from Somali immigrants without any reference to the, ah, special law enforcement challenges that they have raised  and continue to raise.

The reform of visa, refugee and immigration policy implicit in the terms of the executive order are, to say the least, long overdue.
In his weekly email newsletter, Spiked editor Brendan ONeill directs attention to a new video (below): Our steadfast defence of self-government is in evidence elsewhere on spiked this week with the launch of our brand new spiked film  Brexit and the Battle for Democracy. It features a stellar cast  Paul Embery, Harsimrat Kaur, Tom Slater, Gisela Stuart and Bruno Waterfield  on the Glorious Referendum, the history of the struggle for suffrage, and how we can make good on the democratic promise of 23 June.

Its not over yet. The battle continues with echoes of events and issues in the United States that are impossible to miss.

Quotable quote (Labour MP Gisela Stuart): The liberal establishment was horrified that the people could turn their backs on what they had recommended them to doNow I thought that after the referendum there would be a kind of reassessment of opinion. But if anything the sneering got worse.
Two Atlantic County school officials testified at a school funding public hearing Friday that underfunding of local schools has had a dramatic impact on education and taxes in the county.

Pete Castellano, a member of the Egg Harbor Township Board of Education, said as a Pinelands growth area the district grew dramatically since 2000 but state aid never kept up. He said the district has lost more than $250 million since 2000 due to caps, freezes and cuts in state aid.

The path we are on is unsustainable, Castellano said in his statement, a copy of which he provided to The Press of Atlantic City. Our district is being slowly starved of the resources we need to educate our students . And our property taxpayers are overburdened.

The hearing at Kingsway Regional High School in Gloucester County was among four being held by the bipartisan Senate Select Committee on School Funding Fairness.

Philip Guenther, superintendent of the Atlantic County Institute of Technology said in a statement that since expanding the school in 2009-10, enrollment has increased by 164 percent while state aid has dropped.

He said state aid to the school was almost $3.8 million in 2009 when the school had 566 students. It dropped to $3.7 million in 2016 for more than 1,494 students.

Guenther noted the economic challenges facing the county and said as a result it has been difficult for the county to increase its funding to the school.

Workforce development and opportunities for high school students and adults to develop career skills are critically important to keep residents employed and re-boot the countys economy, he said.

Hearings are also being held by the Assembly Education Committee as the Legislature prepares to grapple with a fiscal year 2018 budget proposed by Gov. Christie next month.

School officials have complained for years about the impact of flat funding and the Legislature promised to address it this year. Gov. Chris Christie has proposed his own new school funding formula but it is unknown if he will attempt to implement it in his proposed budget.
Question: I have a framed circus poster stamped Strobridge owned by our family for several generations. It is 40 inches long and 26 inches high. The Barnum & Bailey Greatest Show on Earth is printed across its top and Winstons Remarkable Riding, Juggling Acrobatic Seals  Most Wonderful Trained Animal Feature of the Age is printed across the bottom. Between the printing is a large colored picture showing seals juggling balls, playing horns and riding horses. What can you tell me about it?  S.A., Marmora

Answer: During the late 1800s and early 1900s, Barnum & Bailey circuses ballyhooed their upcoming appearances in U.S. cities and towns with large billboards and brightly colored banners hung in public places, as well as posters pasted on walls or displayed in store windows. The advertising usually portrayed a shows special attractions.

Your circa 1909-11 B&B circus poster announces the appearance of Professor Harold Winstons troupe of trained seals in an approaching show. Featured at a 1909 Atlantic City presentation where they rode ponies bareback, juggled lighted torches, walked tightropes and performed other tricks, the seals later were deemed by Variety magazine to be one of the best animal acts in its class that has been seen hereabouts.

Strobridge is the name of a leading American lithography company that made your poster. Founded by Elijah Middleton at Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1847, the firm later was bought by Hines Strobridge and closed in 1971. Strobridge was especially famous for its innovative, mass-produced color lithographs that captured the excitement of circuses.

Framed posters such as yours attract people who search for circus memorabilia and Strobridge lithographic art. An example in very good condition sold for $550 last year.

Question: I recently inherited a box marked Duncan containing my great-great-grandmothers pressed glassware. I am very interested in an unusual set of salt and pepper shakers found in the box. Each 3-inch-high footed clear glass shaker is embellished with three different views of a womans frosted glass face. Information about the sets maker, age and value is appreciated.  R. H., Strathmere.

Answer: Your No. 400 Three Face salt and pepper shaker set, also called Three Sisters or Three Graces, was designed by John Ernest Miller for the George Duncan & Sons glass factory in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Patented in 1878, the Three Face raised design appeared on a complete line of Duncan tableware, including cakes stands, pitchers, sugar bowls, creamers, celery vases, compotes, salt and pepper sets and stemware.

Produced until 1892, the original Three Face pattern was one of Millers popular 1870s frosted glass designs that eventually earned him a prize at the 1876 Philadelphia Centennial Exhibition as well as a partnership with Duncan. The prestigious Duncan and Miller Glass Co., founded in 1900 at Washington, Penssylvania, closed in 1955.

Although occasional renewed interest in the Three Face pressed pattern resulted in reproductions made by a number of glassmakers from the 1930s to the 1980s, the imitations are easily discerned by their imperfections, gray hued frosting, blurred facial features and lack of details.

Folks who collect antique Duncan glassware, Three Face items or salt and pepper shaker sets paid $80 to $100 apiece last year for Duncan sets in excellent condition and complete with original perforated metal lids.

Alyce Hand Benham is an antiques broker, appraiser and estate-liquidation specialist. Send questions to: Alyce Benham, Living section, The Press of Atlantic City, 1000 W. Washington Ave., Pleasantville, NJ 08232. Email: treasuresby alyce81@gmail.com.

Letters may be used in future columns but cannot be answered individually, and photos cannot be returned.
PHILADELPHIA  When the check hits the table after a three-course meal at the homey EAT Cafe, it looks unusual. The receipt slip reads: The total above is only a SUGGESTED price. Please write here the amount you wish to pay.

The meal is valued at $15, plus $1.20 in tax. Some pay it. Some pay more. Many pay a few dollars, or nothing at all.

Weve had some graduate students come that are so grateful to have real food, and maybe they leave a couple of dollars, said Mariana Chilton, a professor of public health at Drexel University and founder of the restaurant. Even those who are not paying are not looking at it as a free meal. Theres a dignity to this place.

EAT, which stands for Everyone at the Table, opened in October as one of about 50 experimental restaurants across the country transforming the way people think about charity.

They feed the needy and the nonneedy side by side, giving low-income people the chance to eat a nutritious sit-down meal somewhere other than a soup kitchen.

I couldnt stand the idea that you have these gorgeous restaurants with nice food, and there are these families who are struggling who could never tap into that, Chilton said. I wanted to make a place where families could come experience some joy.

No two pay-what-you-can cafes are alike. They might be run by Christian missionaries or secular volunteers; they might ask diners to help if they cant pay.

But each one has an owner with a deep sense of duty and a high threshold for pain. Its hard enough to run a normal restaurant; one study pegs the first-year failure rate at 60 percent. Try running a restaurant where your guests dont even have to foot the bill.

I felt my heart expand

For Denise Cerreta, the idea was spiritual.

Fourteen years ago, she had converted her Salt Lake City acupuncture clinic into a small cafe, which was a financial failure.

One day, with my spiritual senses, I heard, Go to donation, let people price their own food, she said. The next person that walked through the door, I said, No more pricing; price your own. I was a little bit shell-shocked. And at the moment I did that, I felt my heart expand.

One World Cafe served curries and lasagnas and salads, and earned mostly glowing publicity, except from Rush Limbaugh, who called it an embarrassment to American business.

There were bumps  bounced paychecks, a staff walkout  that Cerreta attributed to her own inexperience. But for a few years, the cafe turned a small profit.

Charitable folks around the country began asking Cerreta how to start their own cafes. She started the One World Everybody Eats foundation, offering business plans and mentoring to community restaurant owners, eventually closing her cafe to help others start their own.

Weve always embraced that theres no one way or right way to do this, Cerreta said. We try to meet people where theyre at and help them increase food security in their community.

Psychic rewards

Cafe owners tell of the hundreds of thousands of meals theyve served, the people who cry after eating their first square meal in years.

But getting to that point means toiling through years of bureaucracy, fundraising and doubt. First, you have to find the right location: If the neighborhood is too poor, a cafe wont get enough paying customers, and if its too rich, it will be inaccessible to the people its trying to help. Then there are the neighbors.

Our neighbor businesses were concerned that we would be attracting shopping carts stacked up 10 deep, said Bob Pearson, a One World board member who operated Common Table in Bend, Oregon, for about two years. The restaurants tend to attract the food-insecure  working poor who have trouble making ends meet  but nearly every operator deals with residents who think it will be a soup kitchen.

Sometimes, theyre hostile. When Libbie Combee opened Mosaics Cafe in Bartow, Florida, after a $200,000 renovation, residents were determined to shut us down, Combee said. It got nasty.

Some jurisdictions are not sure how to regulate them. Because Combee started her cafe through her religious ministry, she said the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulations division of hotels and restaurants told her she was exempt, even though she asked to be regulated like a normal restaurant.When neighbors got word she was operating an unregulated restaurant, the bad PR forced its closure.

She provided $24,000 worth of meals in the 10 months she was open. Now, she is $46,000 in debt.

Volunteers or not?

For a cafe to be sustainable, Cerreta said, 80 percent of customers need to pay the suggested price to offset the 20 percent who pay little or nothing  though some cafes make it work with other ratios, and the many cafes that are run as nonprofits supplement with grants.

The tricky thing is to compel those who can afford it to pay, and to pay extra, without scaring those who truly need a free meal. Cerreta used to leave the price up to the customer. When it was so anonymous, I think it was maybe tempting for people that would take five friends to lunch, she said. Her cashiers began to tell people the suggested value of their meal.

That worked, but some poverty researchers discourage that approach. Requiring low-income people to state, face-to-face, they cannot pay the suggested amount could shame them out of using the cafe at all.

For some participants, its still going to feel like a charitable feeding experience, particularly if theres something that makes them feel like they are different from the average diner, said Elaine Waxman, a senior fellow at the Urban Institute.

Chiltons is the first community cafe to be founded by a poverty research center. Thats why, at EAT, the check is placed on the table in a traditional black plastic sleeve. There is no volunteering for meal credits.

The last thing anyone should do is require anyone whos super poor to volunteer. Give them a job! Chilton said. I dont want anyone to feel like they have to be worthy to come into our place.

It also perpetuates a stereotype that people who arent working sit around all day. Being poor is a full-time job in itself, Waxman said.

But the One World board members say the volunteer-for-food model keeps the cafes functioning. Others say it provides job training and a chance for low-income people to work alongside middle-class volunteers.

I think it gives them a sense of dignity and belonging, where they too have participated in their meal in some way, said Dorothea Bongiovi, who founded two JBJ Soul Kitchen cafes in New Jersey with her husband, Jon Bon Jovi. Diners can volunteer for one hour in exchange for a free meal for up to four family members. Staff members, some of whom are trained in social work, connect volunteers with other services.

The food is a vehicle to get them into the Soul Kitchen to get them resources that they might not be aware of, she said. Instead of calling it pay-what-you-can, Bongiovi prefers pay it forward.

You have to love on people

Aside from profit, loss and the number of meals served, there is little data on these cafes. One study found that when consumers were asked to name the price they would pay for a product, they were less likely to buy it, because they felt bad they could not pay the appropriate price. But a broad, multi-restaurant study that examines a community restaurants impact on the poor has not yet been undertaken.

Theres potential for something like this to have a bigger impact than can be mentioned in the profit margin, said Julia Weinert, assistant director of poverty solutions at the University of Michigan.

Pearson says that for every 100 inquiries the organization receives, only about a dozen cafes actually open, and one-third of all community cafes have closed. Depending on location, he estimates it takes $30,000 to $100,000 to get a cafe off the ground, and then another $50,000 a year to operate it.

Kevin and Mary Bode say they are aware of the bumpy road ahead as they prepare to open the Knead Community Cafe in New Kensington, Pa., outside Pittsburgh, next month. They bought and renovated a building near some of the poorest blocks in all of Pennsylvania, said Kevin Bode. Their challenge? Finding a chef with top skills who is also on board with our mission to help raise somebody up, said Mary Bode. The person that we get has to have a servants heart.

As hard as the job is for owners, its also tough on chefs. When many of your ingredients come as donations  ground turkey one week, couscous the next  every weeks menu is a Chopped challenge. The chef has to be part teacher, part social worker, too.

You have to love on people, and you dont have to do it from a distance, said EATs chef, Donnell Jones-Craven.

Some cafes are seeking out high-profile restaurateurs as mentors. EAT Cafe has partnered with Vetri Community Partnership, a foundation run by famed Philadelphia chef Marc Vetri and restaurateur Jeff Benjamin, author of Front of the House, who trained the EAT staff.

Aside from the Vetri involvement, two experimental pay-what-you-can locations of Panera Bread, and the occasional celebrity guest chef at JBJ Soul Kitchen, the concept has not had much crossover with the corporate and prestige restaurant world. Thats partly because, as the concept scales up, it loses its personal connection  a key factor to its success in small communities.

Still, the restaurant world has begun to take notice. The James Beard Foundation announced this month that Cerreta would be this years recipient of its humanitarian award. When a board member told her about the prize, I said, Oh, James Beard? I hadnt heard of it, said Cerreta.

A customer who cares

At the EAT Cafe on a recent Friday night, the vibrant green dining room was filling up with guests. A table of gray-haired baby boomers sat across from a table of 20-something students, and the piped-in jazz swirled around the room along with the smell of roasted vegetables. There was chicken potpie and meatloaf on the menu, and bread pudding with creme anglaise for dessert.

When she first learned about the pay-what-you-can concept, I had never heard of such a thing, said 87-year-old Calla Cousar, a longtime resident of the neighborhood who joined an advisory panel that Chilton set up to solicit community input. Now, Cousar comes once a week.

As a mentor to local teens, shes going to start bringing groups of them here for dinner, so they can eat something other than fast food, she said. She motioned to the tables, the silverware, the glasses of nicely garnished basil lemonade. I want to expose them to this.
VINELAND  The planned closure of the Progresso soup plant this summer has city and Cumberland County officials wondering about the future of the West Elmer Road facility.

The decision on the property rests with Progressos parent company, General Mills.

General Mills has said it will partner with the city and other agencies to find a new user for the sprawling complex.

The citys economic development department and the Cumberland County Improvement Authority are forwarding to the Minnesota-based company the names of companies that have expressed interest in the site.

We are all very confident that as we continue down the process of working with Progresso  that we can work with some other entity to backfill the property and create jobs, said CCIA Executive Director Gerard Velasquez.

However, Velasquez said, nothing has been committed to.

City Economic Development Director Sandy Forosisky said General Mills is kicking the tires with some different companies.

The most likely fit for the property would be another food-processing company, she said.

Forosisky said its unlikely the city can provide big enough economic lures for large companies to take over the plant.

Were talking substantial money, she said. Our little Urban Enterprise Zone loans arent going to make a difference.

Some substantial funds to attract a company to the site could come from the state Economic Development Authority, Forosisky said.

Any tenant considering locating at the Progresso site could, based on eligibility, apply for EDA financing that includes loans, bonds or Grow New Jersey tax credits, said Virginia Pellerin, the authoritys program manager.

The EDA is also part of the Partnership for Action, which has a business action center that serves as a one-stop ship for companies, she said.

The staff of the business action center is aware of the availability of the Progresso site, and is knowledgeable about its features, she said. The merits of the site are presented to any client for which the property may be suitable.

General Mills announced the closing in July, saying it planned to transfer production to other U.S. facilities to eliminate excess soup capacity in  North America. The company confirmed the closing in September.

General Mills on Monday filed a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act notice, commonly referred to as a WARN notice, with the state Department of Labor and Workforce Development. The WARN filing is required by the federal government so workers can get 60-day layoff notices connected to mass layoffs or factory closings.

The WARN notice indicated General Mills will lay off 338 workers. The first 65 employees are scheduled to lose their jobs March 24, according to the notice and General Mills.

Velasquez said the CCIA will provide job training for the Progresso workers who lose their jobs.

The plant has been a mainstay of Cumberland Countys economy since the 1940s. It was bought by General Mills in 2001 and was featured in a series of national advertisements touting Vineland as the home of Progresso soup.

This year is Progressos 75th anniversary.

Its a big blow, Velasquez said of the plants closing.
VINELAND  General Mills said Thursday it will lay off about 65 workers in March as it moves toward closing its Progresso soup plant later this year.

The layoffs are the first in a series of dismissals that will eliminate the 338-member workforce, according to the company and state Department of Labor and Workforce Development documents.

General Mills filed a federally required notice giving 60-day warnings connected to mass layoffs or factory closings.

The notice sets March 24 as the first layoff day.

When asked about the jobs those workers perform, General Mills spokeswoman Kelsey Roemhildt said, As we move certain production lines to other areas within our supply chain, those employees will be let go.

Roemhildt had no date for the plant closing but said it will occur this summer.

General Mills will partner with the city and local agencies to help find a new user for the complex on West Elmer Road, she said.

Brian String, president of United Food and Commercial Workers Local 152, which represents many of the plant workers, couldnt be reached for comment.

Operations at the plant Thursday appeared the same as theyve been for years. Trucks entered and left the property. Workers made the walk between their cars and the main plant building.

Some workers declined comment Thursday. One worker, who said he wouldnt identify himself for fear of jeopardizing his remaining time at the plant, said most employees are resigned to losing their jobs.

General Mills announced the closing in July, saying it planned to transfer production to other U.S. facilities to eliminate excess soup capacity. The company confirmed the closing in September.

The plant has been a mainstay of Cumberland Countys economy since the 1940s. It was bought by General Mills in 2001 and was featured in a series of national advertisements touting Vineland as the home of Progresso soup.

2017 marks Progressos 75th anniversary.

According to city records, the Progresso plants land and buildings are assessed at $13.7 million. The company paid $334,800 in local taxes in 2016, the records show.

The plants closing further stings Cumberland County, which had a 6.2 percent unemployment rate in December. The state had a 4.7 unemployment rate in December.

Still, the citys workforce isnt the only one to be affected by business at General Mills.

In January, General Mills announced it planned to eliminate 400 to 600 jobs internationally as it restructured its business. The company is struggling with weaker sales for its cereal and yogurt. Its brands include Yoplait, Wheaties, Cheerios and Lucky Charms.

The company reported in December that its net sales decreased 7 percent, to $4.1 billion, in its quarter ending Nov. 27.
GALLOWAY TOWNSHIP  Resident Nina Goldbergs husband, Herb Rudolph, has Alzheimers disease.

For the past 10 years, she has seen the man who once flew airplanes and worked in nuclear security slip to where he cant speak an entire sentence.

What makes it more difficult for Goldberg is Rudolph, 88, is far from frail.

He has none of the diseases of old age, Goldberg said. Hes as healthy as can be. He just cant remember anything.

On Saturday, Goldberg was one of the initial attendees of the Memory Cafe at Stockton University.

It can be challenging for people with Alzheimers or a relation disorder to maintain social ties with people who do not understand dementia, said David Johnson, of the Alzheimers Associations Delaware Valley chapter.

Memory Cafe gives people who are in the early stages of the disease the opportunity to meet and socialize with others who are facing similar experiences in a fun and supportive environment, Johnson said.

Care partners may attend. The Memory Cafe is the result of a partnership involving Johnsons organization and the universitys Center on Successful Aging.

David Burdick, the centers director, said memory cafes are popular around the country.

Attendees find a comforting place to talk with others about their experiences with dementia, he said. Those gatherings help relieve the stigma that many dementia suffers feel, he said.

They learn that theyre not alone, Burdick said. Its important to know that theyre not alone.

The National Institute of Health estimates more than 5 million suffer from Alzheimers in America.

The disease is an irreversible, progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills, and eventually a persons ability to carry out simple tasks, according to the institute. Symptoms for most people with Alzheimers begin to appear in their mid-60s.

The institute also reports that recent estimates place Alzheimers behind only heart disease and cancer as a cause of death for older people.

Goldberg, 78, said she has tried different things to help her husband, who is now in an assisted-living facility, retain his memory at long as possible. That included singing different songs to match different tasks, such as walking to a bedroom, she said.

Now, the success of that sort of musical therapy is fading, she said.

One of Rudolphs favorite songs was (Get your kicks on) Route 66, Goldberg said.

Up until a month ago, he knew the words, Goldberg said. Im sure he might remember if I sing it to him.

The Memory Cafe meets from 10:30 a.m. to noon every Saturday. Pre-registration is required by calling 800-272-3900 or emailing djjohnson@alz.org.
Daft, raft, deft, left, gift, lift, loft, soft -- eight words concluding with ft. Who would have guessed the awkward combination of f and t would so oft find harmony, reality? What a language!

Lets focus on soft. Soft is Old English meaning: "gentle, mild-natured; calm; luxurious. There are wide applications with:

 materials: "not stiff, not coarse, fine; yielding to weight,

 water: "relatively free from mineral salts,

 sounds: "quiet, not loud,

 words: "mild; courteous,

 cowardice: "feeble, lacking courage,

 compassion: "easily moved or swayed.

Then there are: soft drinks, soft rock and the soft sell. Finally, the darling of those who want to hide their age -- soft focus lenses. Soft -- what a word!

Applying soft to people

In contrast to cowardly softness, can soft apply in a positive way to us? Would you call a Montana woman soft? And, when would you call a Montana man soft -- especially if he was from Butte?

Can we stretch our frame of reference by considering Christ? No coward, his calloused carpenter hands were tough. He grew up in a rough and tumble Nazareth. But, he is described by a word related to soft -- meek. What?

As English speaking people, we make the rhyming leap from meek to weak. We can assume meek must be weak. Isnt mild also the frequent companion of meek"? Then we subconsciously rest our case. Lets reject such false connections.

Finding help in Greek

Alexander the Great tamed a mighty stallion, Bucephalus. Again and again, this steed proved worthy in battle. But, as I recall, he is described by the Greek word for meek -- praeis. His meekness enabled him to tame his powerful energy according to his masters will. So, meekness is capable of VIGOR -- the kind of engagement Jesus told us would characterize those who inherit the earth (Mt. 5:5).

Finding help from Volf

Growing up in war torn Croatia, theologian Miroslav Volf (1960-) tested meekness. Now, a prof at Princeton, hes given a lot of thought to the meekness highlighted in the New Testament. Volf calls meekness soft difference.

Ponder soft difference. Remember, we observed the awkward combination of f and t oft find harmony, reality. Similarly, combining soft and difference is not terminally awkward. Unruffled by insults, trusting God to be God, lets live putting our hands in the nail-scarred hands of Jesus. His hands are steel (real differences) in a velvet glove (relational softness).

Pondering the Trinity

Lets magnify soft differences by considering the mysterious Trinity. For years, I assumed the Father, the Son and Spirit were similar. But, when the Bible describes our first parents as one, apparently, the Trinity wants us to understand that each of them is at least as different as a man is from a woman. And the generational differences we often struggle with are named in the Father and the Son. Aha. Each person of the Trinity has IDENTITY. AND the LOVE of GOD UNITES them profoundly. Mystery!

However, followers of a monotheistic God suffer from a lack of diversity. Although unity is their greatest good, the brokenness of our world propels monotheists in the direction of uniformity. So, in public many Muslim women wear a uniform -- the hijab and the jilbab -- the appearance of unity. Under Islam, an infidel (kafir) is considered unclean -- excluded. Unity is ALL. Among other overzealous unifiers are those who reject the theist of monotheist but focus on the monacular vision of liberal or conservative political correctness.

On the other side are those who suffer from a lack of unity. For Hindus, with more than a million gods, what basis is there for unity? We call the absence of a Center by other names too: in Montana -- rugged individualism; in academia -- postmodern thought. The university becomes a multiversity. And consider Romanticism. Rosario Butterflied writes: Romanticism claimed that you know truth through the lens of your personal experience, and that no overriding or objective opposition can challenge the primal wisdom of your subjective frame of intelligibility -- the most reliable means of discerning truth (Openness Unhindered).

Although our brokenness hinders our radical differences and radical softness and gives us false substitutes, still, made in the image of the Triune God, we need diversity AND unity. Practical implications are everywhere. For example, To be a Christian means to live one's own identity in the face of others in such a way that one joins inseparably the belief in the truth of one's own convictions with a respect for the convictions of others. To give up the softness of our difference would be to sacrifice our identity as followers of Jesus Christ (Steven Dilla).

Settling on Jesus

Christian, Jesus makes our identity explicit in Mt. 11:29 -- Learn from me, for I am gentle (praeis) and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Tellingly, his triumphal entry highlights his meekness. Mt 21:5 -- Behold, your king, humble (praeis), and mounted on a donkey. What has been broken -- real softness and real differences -- Jesus can restore.

Peter describes Christs Spirit working in Jesus followers.1 Peter 3:4 -- The imperishable beauty of a gentle (praeos) and quiet spirit  in God's sight is very precious -- polytelos -- poly = many + telos = maturity. In looking at the many options of life, the mature demonstrate what pleases the Audience of One -- praeos.

The Bible is filled with thundering prophets -- contenders for the faith -- particularly when they spoke to people of faith. Each of their accessible stories is like lightning sitting for a portrait. Without neglecting them, we also rest our souls in the Gentle God/Man who on the cross waged WAR against evil so he could WELCOME different folks like us home. Christian and those who will follow Christ, may God use the soft differences formed in us by Christ to enable others to hear his Welcome Home.
Scott Chambers estimates his Wildwood bike shop lost nearly $5,000 on Black Friday because of a Comcast internet and phone outage.

The lost money isnt the only thing that hurts, he said, because there is a larger issue, too.

We dont have a choice of wireless internet, said Chambers, owner of Zippys Bikes on Pacific Avenue. You go to Cherry Hill, its competitive there.

Jennifer Bilotta, vice president of communications at Comcast, said the outage occurred after a highly unusual accident and explained the company apologized to those affected.

But South Jersey residents, from rural Cumberland County to resort towns like Wildwood, have reported issues with internet and phone service, including few if any options on providers.

A technology divide reaches across the country.

For example, 41 percent of Americas rural schools couldnt get high-speed internet if they tried, Federal Communications Commission Chairman Tom Wheeler wrote in 2014.

In Cape May County and parts of Atlantic County, residents have been limited to only one reliable provider for high-speed internet and one for landline phones.

In sections of Cumberland County and the western edge of Atlantic County, the problems involve reliable service, particularly with phone service but with internet connections too, said state Sen. Jeff Van Drew, D-Cape May, Cumberland, Atlantic.

About 10 years ago, Verizon announced plans to expand its fiber-optic Fios service to all areas of South Jersey. Since then, only limited work has been done.

Hopewell Township Committeeman Greg Facemyer said only parts of his township near Bridgeton have access to Verizon Fios or Comcast. The rest still use dial-up for internet connection and landline phones powered by old copper wires for phone service.

Facemyer said the companies dont want to invest in the area because of its small population and the growing use of cellphones instead of landlines.

We dont have the numbers like North Jersey does, he said. Were treated as second-class citizens.

Verizon did not return a request for comment.

Chambers said internet service is no longer a luxury, and businesses in states such as Pennsylvania have access to much better service and more options.

Were not getting the coverage that were paying for or the speed, he said. They dont want to invest in these towns because they cant make any money.

Wildwood Mayor Ernie Troiano said he was troubled when he heard about the Black Friday outage, which Chambers said lasted about eight hours.

Thats a shame. What happened to them is a crime, he said. Were going to reach out to Comcast here and see what their plans are.

Bilotta said Comcast has invested heavily in the area, including by improving internet speed for residential customers last year and by opening new Xfinity stores in Mays Landing and Rio Grande. She said internet service in South Jersey is just as reliable as service in other parts of the region.

Facemyer said that although cellphone use has exploded over the past decade, the wireless service still remains a problem. The service for phones usually cuts out between 3 p.m. and 4 p.m., when students are getting out of school and using their phones all at once, he said.

For people still using landlines, Facemyer said, the copper-wire lines create static or cut out on rainy and windy days.

People need a phone or internet for medical devices or emergencies, he said. These are life-threatening issues.

Its not a luxury anymore, said North Wildwood Mayor Patrick Rosenello. In some instances, its as critical as electric and water.

In December, Verizon announced it would bring Fios to Weymouth Township and Estell Manor, much to the delight of Van Drew, who has repeatedly advocated for better service in South Jersey.

Weymouth and Estell Manor were part of a petition to keep reliable copper-wire phone service in 17 municipalities in South Jersey sent to the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities last year.

Van Drew said these towns were served first because they were the worst of the worst in terms of service.

They literally didnt have cell service, copper wires or internet access, he said. They were relying on dial up.

But there are more issues besides Verizons slow response to accommodate underserved areas.

In other areas of South Jersey, many homeowners are stuck with one reliable high-speed internet service: Comcast.

Having only one provider creates its own issues, especially when residents are trying to negotiate a price, Van Drew said.

We say we dont allow monopolies in the country, but here we are in South Jersey with that issue, Van Drew said.

The senator added Comcast and Verizon dont like to expand into areas where they will compete against each other. That does nothing to maximize profits and costs money to install the fiber-optic infrastructure needed for Fios.

Comcast isnt contractually obligated to reimburse businesses for revenue lost during an outage, but Chambers said he was offered a $100 credit from the company.

He turned it down.

Its a monopoly, and no one (else) is coming to town, he said.
A state environmental official has called on the federal government not to tighten restrictions on summer flounder and vowed to testify at an important regulatory meeting next week.

Commissioner Bob Martin, of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, voiced his opposition Friday to a federal plan that would cut this years flounder catch by 40 percent coast wide.

This will cripple marinas, charter boat operators, and owners of bait-and-tackle shops, and would have severe consequences on the hotels, restaurants and other tourism-related businesses that support anglers and their families, Martin said at a morning rally at a bait and tackle shop in Point Pleasant Beach.

Recreational fishermen in New Jersey could face stricter size and bag limits and a shorter fishing season if the plan is given final approval at the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission meeting next week in Virginia.

Federal officials have said the reduction is necessary to prevent depletion of the flounder stock, which they say is in an overfishing situation.

Martin said he is planning to testify before the ASMFC at the Virginia meeting, joining a chorus of New Jersey politicians and officials who have voiced opposition to the plan.

On Monday, the state General Assembly cast doubts on the federal governments measuring methods by unanimously passing a resolution calling on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to conduct a new flounder stock assessment.

For too long summer flounder fishery management has been driven by knee-jerk reactions that lack scientific foundation and have profound impacts on the lives of many people, Martin said Friday.
OCEAN CITY  Four New York residents were arrested Wednesday in a scheme to cash fraudulent checks at the TD Bank on Ninth Street, and the suspects are under investigation in similar cases in Absecon, Somers Point and Northfield, police said.

Vashan Chiddick, 24, of Bronx, New York, is still being held, while Diamond Commuck, 22, Jonathan Maldonado, 30, and Timothy Gonzalez, 23, all of Bronx, New York, were released on summonses after they were charged with forgery, possession of false documents and theft. Gonzalez also was charged with drug possession.

Ocean City police were called to the TD Bank in the 100 block of Ninth Street at 2:53 p.m. Wednesday after bank employees reported a person attempting to cash a fraudulent check. The employees told police the suspect left in a black Dodge SUV.

Police said officers found Gonzalez on the side of the bank near Ninth Street, allegedly in possession of a large amount of money and suspected marijuana.

The vehicle had left the bank parking lot but was found shortly in the 700 block of Bay Avenue. Maldonado, Chiddick and Commuck were taken to the police department for further investigation. Inside the SUV, police said, were found cash, fraudulent documents and a printing device.

The U.S. Secret Service, Cape May County Prosecutors Office and Ocean City Police Department are conducting an additional investigation.

Any bank or business that may have been a victim of a similar incident should contact their local police department to report the event.
VENTNOR  Jennifer Hansen walked into the kitchen of a large home by the beach, saying hello to residents and asking them about their day.

The dining room was bright and had a table that could seat eight. The living room was painted in a warm beige, and leather couches were arranged facing a television above a fireplace.

It looked like any other ordinary house by the sea. And it is, except its residents are part of the Serenity House sober-living program and working on putting their lives back together after opioid addiction.

As addiction reaches epidemic proportions in New Jersey, specialists say sober-living opportunities are crucial to encourage recovered addicts. But limited regulation and oversight cause many sober-living homes to exist in a gray area of housing law.

Gov. Chris Christie pushed for more work on the states opioid addiction epidemic in his State of the State address this month, which included expanding the number of sober-living homes by easing an overly restrictive statutory, regulatory and code environment for residents that provide supportive and substance-free housing in our communities.

But in order for that to happen, New Jerseys lawmakers have to ease current regulations or create a third path for establishing these live-in recovery communities.

Under current laws, you either have a licensed boarding home or an Oxford or Oxford-like House, Hansen said. If you dont fit into either of those boxes, they dont see you as legitimate. There needs to be another box.

Licensed sober living homes are at the discretion of the state departments of Human Services and Community Affairs. The federal Fair Housing Act says people living together in sobriety and recovery are protected from discrimination under disability laws.

Hansen is currently fighting to get her sober living homes accepted with the same level of protection that Oxford House has under the Fair Housing Act.

Other homes can function as licensed boarding homes, but most operate under the radar and are unaccredited and unlicensed.

Current policies have kept Hansen in litigation with the state over her sober-living homes for the past 2 years as she argued that her nonprofit, supervised homes for recovering men and women dont fall into traditional categories.

We try to sit down with them and say, Whats the goal, what do you need, where do you want to get to? Hansen said. Were seeing younger and younger people come in, some who dont even know how to go grocery shopping.

Serenity Houses provide up to an 18-month stay, and residents pay their own rent, cook, clean, get jobs, go to 12-step recovery programs and sort out how to pay court fines, get back their care licenses and go back to school. All staff, who are nonclinical, are trained in use of the opioid antidote Narcan in case a resident relapses.

Hansen modeled her homes based on her own experience in a sober-living program. Now a mother of three, Hansen has been in recovery from a heroin addiction for 21 years. After going through detox and treatment at Seabrook House in Bridgeton, she entered a sober-living transitional facility in California.

She used her experience in California to model and shape her local network of Serenity sober-living homes and Hansen House clinical halfway houses.

Oxford House, a national recovery housing network, includes about 140 peer-led group recovery housing locations in New Jersey alone. The houses are licensed by the state, and funding is provided to help manage the large network.

The homes are democratically run and self-supported by recovering addicts. No direct treatment, professional supervision or clinical services are provided in the homes, but members often attend outside 12-step meetings and professional help as they see fit.

There is no stay limit for residents.

The ideal situation, the most common, is when people come to us from halfway houses or treatment, said George Kent, Oxford House regional manager. Going back to their old neighborhoods is not a great idea.

While Oxford House has been successful in getting state housing approval while others have struggled, Kent said the demand for these types of housing opportunities still exceeds the number of beds available because of the growing epidemic.

Alan Oberman, executive director and CEO of the John Brooks Recovery Center in Atlantic City and Pleasantville, said the lack of state oversight has made it difficult for inpatient and outpatient treatment centers like his to know which sober-living homes to recommend to clients.

Because a large number of homes goes unnoticed, unaccredited and unlicensed, it is hard for treatment professionals to tell which ones have proved successful recovery models and which are in violation of basic housing codes or making a profit off recovering residents.

Hansen said she hopes legislators, including Assemblyman Vincent Mazzeo, D-Atlantic, and Sen. Joe Vitale, D-Middlesex, who have sponsored recovery bills in the past, figure out a way to properly regulate and one day provide funding for sober-living homes.

People come to us completely broken with no hope at all and completely turn it around, she said.
During the summer of 2014, everyone agreed that in order to stabilize Atlantic Citys local economy, the endless cycle of devastating tax appeals by the casinos had to end. That is when members of my administration met with individuals helping Senate President Sweeney to draft the original casino pilot bill. This bill, or actually series of bills, had a very simple idea. Starting in 2014, the casinos would pay the same amount of taxes as they did in 2013 for the next 15 years with absolutely no possibility of tax appeals. Atlantic City, its school district and Atlantic County would then share this set amount of taxes paid by the casinos.

In addition, at that time, the original bills called for Atlantic City to receive $32 million from the Investment Alternative Tax collected by the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority in 2014 and 2015, plus an additional $30 million from the soon to be non-operational Atlantic City Alliance. The series of bills also called for a state monitor to be assigned to the Atlantic City School District to oversee what additional state aid Atlantic City would receive compared to other former Abbott Districts. With all this on the table, I agreed that the county should receive 13.5 percent of the pilot based on the countys average of what it had received over the previous 15 years. I thought that was only fair since the PILOT itself was going to be in place for the next 15 years. (However, neither the Atlantic County Freeholder Board nor Atlantic City Council had officially approved this agreement.)

Then everything fell apart. When the fall of 2014 came, this PILOT bill was never brought to the floor to be voted upon. It was not even voted on the next spring, summer or fall. It was eventually voted upon a year later. But by then much of the world had changed. Shortly thereafter in January 2016, the governor vetoed the PILOT bill outright. At that point, the original PILOT bill was officially dead.

Fast forward a few months later, a new PILOT bill was created and passed in May 2016. But this set of bills looked vastly different than the originals. The lifetime of the PILOT was reduced from 15 years to 10 years. The promised $32 million from the 2014 and 2015 IATs was gone. The promised $30 million from the ACA for 2014 and 2015 was gone. All the extra funds for 2014 and 2015 had evaporated. And appallingly, the no-casino-tax-appeals clause for 2014, 2015 and 2016 was gone. In other words, Atlantic City would receive almost $120 million less financial support and would still have to face massive tax appeals from 2015 and 2016. Compared to the original PILOT, this new one was going to be detrimental to Atlantic City.

Lost in all the later false accusations and name calling is the fact that I still believe the county should receive its fair share of the PILOT. That is what motivated me to make the original agreement with the county executive. However, the failed PILOT bill of 2014 is not the same as the passed pilot bill of 2016. And besides, there is already a fair way to determine the countys fair share. Its the same way that the other 565 municipalities determine their fair share. The county tax assessor uses a standard formula that is based on municipal, county and school budgets, as well as assessed values. If we were to use that formula today, the countys percentage would be 9.92 percent, as it was in 2016 for all other property taxes collected. (This is quite generous for a PILOT program, considering that funding from most PILOTs goes directly to cities and no one else.)

Now we are in January 2017. It is tough financial times for everyone. We all must live within our means. The city has reduced its annual budget by tens of millions of dollars. We have had a reduction of over 350 employees. We have reduced city-owned vehicles by more than 120. We are utilizing best practices, shared services and lowest qualified bidders. We secured over $100 million annually in aid through CMPTRA, TA, ACA, energy credits and non-Atlantic City property taxes. And most importantly, we have reduced the amount that property taxpayers pay for the annual budget by 60 percent. Even though there is less money for everyone, I still believe that the county should receive its fair share. Its just not 13.5 percent.

Donald Guardian is mayor of Atlantic City.
Here are the felony arrests reported in the Helena area during the month of January. Defendants are innocent until proven guilty.
For the New World Order, a world government is just the beginning. Once in place they can engage their plan to exterminate 80% of the world's population, while enabling the "elites" to live forever with the aid of advanced technology. For the first time, crusading filmmaker ALEX JONES reveals their secret plan for humanity's extermination: Operation ENDGAME.

Jones chronicles the history of the global elite's bloody rise to power and reveals how they have funded dictators and financed the bloodiest warscreating order out of chaos to pave the way for the first true world empire.

Watch as Jones and his team track the elusive Bilderberg Group to Ottawa and Istanbul to document their secret summits, allowing you to witness global kingpins setting the world's agenda and instigating World War III.





to Ottawa and Istanbul to document their secret summits, allowing you to witness global kingpins setting the world's agenda and instigating World War III. Learn about the formation of the North America transportation control grid, which will end U.S. sovereignty forever.





Discover how the practitioners of the pseudo-science eugenics have taken control of governments worldwide as a means to carry out depopulation.





View the progress of the coming collapse of the United States and the formation of the North American Union.

Never before has a documentary assembled all the pieces of the globalists' dark agenda. Endgame's compelling look at past atrocities committed by those attempting to steer the future delivers information that the controlling media has meticulously censored for over 60 years. It fully reveals the elite's program to dominate the earth and carry out the wicked plan in all of human history.

Endgame is not conspiracy theory, it is documented fact in the elite's own words.




An online fundraiser has been launched to help the girlfriend of the late Kris Harrison and her children. Harrison lost his life in a car crash last week near East Helena.

Harrison, Maura Gruber and her children had recently moved into a new home in the Helena area, according to the fundraiser website https://www.youcaring.com/.

Kris' untimely departure has left a gap in their lives, the website says. He contributed so much to the wellbeing of Maura and her children, one small portion of which was financial. Please consider donating and showing your love to Maura and her kids during this trying period.

The fundraiser launched Jan. 18, and has so far raised $3,900 and been shared on Facebook 190 times. Organizer Jennie Gruber, Mauras sister, says the goal of $5,000 isnt the limit, and family and friends would like to raise as much as possible.

Were doing this out of love and support to try to remove at least one stressor during this difficult time, Jennie said.

To learn more or donate, visit https://www.youcaring.com/mauragruber-739600?fb_action_ids=10100617855439823&fb_action_types=youcaringcom%3Ashare.
LARGO, Florida, Jan. 27, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Today BioDerm, Inc. announced the launch of their new partnership with CellMark Medical to bring the next generation of urinary management, securement and skin protection devices into select Asian markets. BioDerm, Inc. is the manufacturer of the Men's Liberty and Safe n'Dry Male Urinary Devices, the next generation hydrocolloid-based external catheters that reduce the risk of developing urinary tract infections commonly associated with indwelling catheters1 and provide a safe, skin-friendly seal for 24 hours or more. Because of their occlusive seal and noninvasive design, they reduce the risk of catheter associated urinary tract infections, or CAUTIs, and skin macerations and injuries associated with the use of adult diapers or condom catheters when used for incontinence2. In addition, BioDerm's CathGrip line of medical device securement products can reduce the instances of Medical Device-Related Hospital Acquired Pressure Ulcers (HAPUs).

"We are excited to be working with CellMark Medical to improve the quality of care that Asian patients receive in hospitals today. We look forward to explosive growth in highly populous markets that have increasing standards of care and wealth," says BioDerm's President, Gaet Tyranski.

"CellMark Medical was formed to cost effectively bring innovative medical devices and pharmaceutical products to the world to improve quality of life. We are pleased to partner with BioDerm to bring their unique and effective products to select Asian markets, using our proprietary trade platform, where we have an established network of distributors with broad access to end users," says CellMark Medical's President, Niclas Mottus Olsson.

Headquartered in Largo, Florida, BioDerm is one of the nation's leading manufacturers of proprietary hydrocolloid products for urinary management, securement, infection control and skin protection. The company challenges accepted inferior standards of care by creating products that reduce infection rates, reduce pressure injuries, add comfort and reliability, and vastly improve quality of life. Our products are sold world-wide and our brands include Men's Liberty, Safe n'Dry, CathGrip, BioPlus+ and FreeDerm. You can find more info here: http://www.bioderminc.com

Headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden, CellMark Medical leverages an expert global trading infrastructure, with a network across 120 markets, to simplify the exporting process and minimize associated risks, allowing MedTech manufacturers transparent control of their international sales operations. CellMark Medical sources qualified, trusted and well-established distribution partners in chosen markets. CellMark offers producers and end-users all manner of sales and marketing services, timely, accurate market information, risk management, order tracking, invoicing and trade documentation, all of which contribute to world-class medical device supply chain service operations. CellMark Medical manages marketing literature and packaging design, development and implementation in local markets. CellMark Medical coordinates the regulatory approval process in the local market, ensuring the necessary documents are comprehensively vetted and delivered to the correct authorities in a timely manner, leveraging an in-depth network of experts to quickly overcome any local obstacles. CellMark provides Trademark registration services and applies for and holds product registrations locally, on behalf of the product owner. The licenses can be transferred back at any time to ensure the manufacturer has full control of the future of their business. More information can be found here: http://www.cellmark.com/divisions-business-units/medical/



1 May/June2016;43(3):301-307. Published by Lippincott Williams & Wilkins

External Collection Devices as an Alternative to the Indwelling Urinary Catheter

Evidence-Based Review and Expert Clinical Panel Deliberations

Mikel Gray, Claudia Skinner, Wendy Kaler

2 http://www.hospimedica.com/critical-care/articles/294748243/male-urinary-device-addresses-patient-management-challenges.html

Contact: Wendy LaTorre

BioDerm, Inc.

12320 73rd Ct. N, Largo, FL 33773 USA

+1(727)800-1976

wlatorre@bioderminc.com

Logo - http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/462295/BioDerm_Logo.jpg

Related Links

http://www.bioderm-inc.com



SOURCE BioDerm, Inc.
DUBLIN, Jan. 27, 2016 /PRNewswire/ --

Research and Markets has announced the addition of the "Combat System Integration Market - Global Forecast to 2022" report to their offering.

The combat system integration market is projected to grow from USD 4.26 Billion in 2016 to USD 25.46 Billion by 2022, at a CAGR of 34.7% during the forecast period, 2016 to 2022. Factors such as increasing focus on the naval sector in emerging economies, commissioning of new warships, and continuous upgradation of existing combat platforms and interconnected warfare systems are expected to drive the growth of the market during the forecast period.

On the basis of platform, the combat system integration market has been segmented into large combat ships, medium combat ships, small combat ships, submarines, fighter aircraft, combat helicopters, and armored vehicles/artillery. Increasing demand for integration of combat systems can be attributed to several factors, which include upgradation of existing naval platforms, need for interconnected warfare systems, and requirement for command & control over large scale combat platforms, among others. These factors are expected to fuel the growth of the market during the forecast period.

Use of combat system integration in the defense sector has increased considerably over the past few years. In addition, there is increase in the number of new combat systems that are manufactured, worldwide. These combat systems as well as support systems need to be integrated with each other on combat platforms. Among applications, the naval segment is projected to lead the combat system integration market during the forecast period. This segment is expected to witness the highest growth during the forecast period.

The large combat ships platform segment of the combat system integration market has been segmented into destroyers, frigates, cruisers, and amphibious ships. Among platforms, the submarines segment of the combat system integration market is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. This can be attributed to the growing demand for procurement of new underwater systems as well as increased focus of emerging economies on upgradation of their submarine platforms. Australia is currently developing a major fleet of submarines, for which, it has selected DCNS Group. However, Lockheed Martin Corporation will be the combat system integrator and service provider for these submarines in coordination with DCNS Group.

The BRICS combat system integration market is projected to grow at the highest rate during the forecast period. The key drivers for the growth of the BRICS combat system integration market include continuously increasing defense budgets of China and India. China is developing huge force of blue water navy, while India is also increasing its submarine and surface warship capabilities.

Companies Mentioned:



BAE Systems, PLC.

DCS Corporation

Elbit Systems Ltd.

ICI Services Corporation

Leonardo-Finmeccanica

Lockheed Martin Corporation

Qinetiq Group PLC.

Raytheon Company

Saab AB

Thales Group



Key Topics Covered:

1 Introduction



2 Research Methodology



3 Executive Summary



4 Premium Insights



5 Market Overview



6 Industry Trends



7 Combat System Integration Market, By Application



8 Combat System Integration Market, By Platform



9 Combat System Integration Market, By Region



10 Competitive Landscape



11 Company Profiles



For more information about this report visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/kx6t3t/combat_system

Media Contact:

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

press@researchandmarkets.com



For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470

For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630

For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900



U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907

Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716

Related Links

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SOURCE Research and Markets
PARIS and ST. LOUIS, January 27, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --

Transaction follows receipt of regulatory approvals

Combined business produces diagnostic solutions for over 14 million patients annually from a global network of 21 manufacturing centres and a customer base of over 6,000 public and private hospitals around the world

IBA Molecular has successfully completed its acquisition of Mallinckrodt Nuclear Imaging, announced in August 2016, following the receipt of regulatory approvals.

(Logo: http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/462270/IBA_Molecular_Logo.jpg )



This merger brings together two leading nuclear imaging businesses with complementary strengths, manufacturing capabilities, commercial footprints and operational networks. The enlarged business will employ over 1,500 people globally, supplying more than 6,000 public and private hospitals around the world with diagnostic solutions. It will comprise 21 manufacturing centres (including 3 SPECT[1] sites, 1 molybdenum manufacturing facility and 17 PET[2] sites) and commercial operations across 60 countries, that will enable it to deliver significant economies of scale. Annually, the combined business will provide potentially life-saving diagnostic solutions to over 14 million patients globally.

Nuclear imaging will continue to be at the core of the enlarged organisation as the business plans to invest further in organic and in-organic growth opportunities.

To reflect the future ambition of the expanded business, a new name and brand is currently being developed which is due to be rolled out in the coming months. In the meantime, the two businesses will continue to engage with customers and suppliers as IBA Molecular and Mallinckrodt Nuclear Imaging and it will be business as usual for customers and suppliers.

Commenting on the announcement, Renaud Dehareng, current CEO of IBA Molecular and the new CEO of the enlarged Group, said: "We have created a world-class provider in nuclear imaging. The figures speak for themselves. We will use our scale, global reach, manufacturing footprint and experience to deliver a superior and more sharply focused service that our customers can rely upon everyday."

Commenting on behalf of CapVest, the owner of the enlarged business, Kate Briant, CapVest Partner and Chairman of the Board, said: "Nuclear imaging is an essential diagnostic tool in modern medicine, underpinned by positive long-term fundamentals. We are thrilled to have completed this acquisition as it further consolidates the Group's leadership position in this attractive segment. We believe there will be lots of future growth opportunities to exploit as we seek to grow the market in the coming years. We look forward to working closely with Renaud and his new leadership team as they pursue their ambitious growth plans for the business."

Notes to Editor:

[1] SPECT - A Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) is a type of nuclear imaging technique that uses radioactive substances injected into the blood to create 3-D images that help to diagnose a variety of diseases across oncology, cardiology and neurology, among others.

[2] PET - Like SPECT, Positron Emission Tomography is a nuclear imaging technique that uses radioactive material injected into the body to create 3-d images. However, PET imaging typically provides better resolutions

About Nuclear Imaging

With the challenge of ageing populations around the world and the rising incidence of diseases, solving diagnostic challenges to ensure patients have better outcomes has never been more important.

Nuclear medicine is a specialised area where 'SPECT' and 'PET' cameras are used to capture emitted particles from radiopharmaceuticals and the technology is used to monitor major disease areas including oncology, cardiology and neurology.

The combination of the radiopharmaceuticals and the advanced imaging technology helps doctors to diagnose diseases earlier and more accurately, making treatments more effective and, as a consequence, reducing the long-term cost of care.

About IBA Molecular

IBA Molecular is a highly diversified global supplier of molecular imaging and other proven technologies in nuclear medicine, mainly SPECT and PET products. The company operates across 18 sites globally, servicing a growing client base of private hospitals and health/imaging clinics in over 70 countries. It produces radioactive tracers used in molecular imaging and therapy to diagnose and monitor a range of common diseases including cancer, heart, brain and bone.

IBA Molecular was created in 2012 following the buy-out of the radiopharmaceutical division of Ion Beam Applications ("IBA") SA, a European-based leader in advanced cancer radiation therapy which is listed on the Euronext pan-European Stock Exchange. In 2016, IBA Molecular was acquired by CapVest. IBA Molecular is today a wholly separate business from IBA SA.

About Mallinckrodt Nuclear Imaging business

Mallinckrodt's Nuclear Imaging business is a global producer of the medical isotope molybdenum-99, and its derivative, Technetium-99m, which is used in nuclear medicine procedures worldwide. The business has manufacturing operations in the US and the Netherlands, close to critical transport links, and its products are approved for use in many countries. Over two-thirds of its revenues originate in the US.

About CapVest

CapVest, which was established in 1999, is a leading private equity firm with a strong record of success. The firm's investment strategy is focussed on identifying and managing investments in companies supplying essential goods and services. A patient investor, CapVest works closely with management to transform the size and scale of its investee companies through a combination of organic and acquisition-led growth.

SOURCE IBA Molecular
DUBLIN, Jan. 27, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --

Research and Markets has announced the addition of the "People Counting System Market - Global Forecast to 2022" report to their offering.

The people counting system market is expected to be worth USD 1,637.4 Million by 2022, at a CAGR of 18.9% between 2016 and 2022. The growth of this market is propelled by the growing retail sector and increase in adoption rate of people counting systems, availability of economical and easy-to-install solutions, and increasing demand from transportation sector for people counting solutions.

The advancements in people counting solutions such as availability of 3D people counting and the growing opportunity in emerging markets such as Latin America, Middle East and Africa would provide ample growth opportunities for the people counting system market in the coming years.

The video-based technology is expected to dominate the people counting system market during the forecast period. The video-based technology offers high accuracy during high-volume traffic, ability to detect the direction in which person or shopper is moving, remains unaffected in varying environments of light, heat, shadows, and it can easily distinguish people from objects and track continuously through a large area for an extended period of time.

The retail stores, supermarkets, and shopping malls application area is expected to lead the market during the forecast period as the retail industry is becoming more complex and is constantly evolving. To sustain amidst the shifting demographics, new technologies, and well-informed shoppers, retailers have to modify their existing strategies to achieve new goals. Retailers need to know the footfalls at their shop at regular intervals to remain competitive in the complex retail world.

By observing the ratio of traffic to sales, retailers can fairly and accurately compare stores with low sales volume to stores with high sales volume. People counters help improve store operations by giving information about the number of people entering the store, passing by the store, duration of their visit, and frequency of their visit. It also helps to measure the performance of marketing campaigns and advertising. Moreover, it also helps in making decisions regarding staff planning. The Wi-Fi tracking technology helps track the potential, actual, and repeating visitors and eliminates the staff from the total traffic to count visitors more accurately.



Companies Mentioned:



Axiomatic Technology Limited

Axis Communication AB

Countwise LLC

Dilax Intelcom GmbH

Eurotech S.P.A.

Hella Aglaia Mobile Vision GmbH

IEE S.A.

IRIS-GmbH

Infrared Integrated Systems Ltd. (IRISys)

Point Grey Research, Inc.

Retailnext, Inc.

Shoppertrak

V-Count

Xovis AG



Key Topics Covered:

1 Introduction



2 Research Methodology



3 Executive Summary



4 Premium Insights



5 Market Overview



6 Industry Trends



7 Market, By Technology



8 Market, By Application



9 Geographic Analysis



10 Competitive Landscape



11 Company Profiles



For more information about this report visit

http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/rmzj2n/people_counting

Media Contact:

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

press@researchandmarkets.com



For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470

For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630

For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900



U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907

Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716

Related Links

http://www.researchandmarkets.com



SOURCE Research and Markets
DAKAR, Senegal and PARIS and NEW YORK, Aug. 18, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- ContourGlobal, an international power generation company, announced today that it has signed an agreement with the Senegalese national utility, Societe Nationale d'Electricite du Senegal (SENELEC), to rehabilitate an existing brownfield site and construct a new 53 MW thermal facility under a 20-year Power Purchase Agreement ("PPA"). The new facility is designed to burn heavy fuel oil and natural gas and when completed in 2015 will be the lowest cost liquid fuel and natural gas-fired power plant in Senegal.

The agreement was signed at the Embassy of the Republic of Senegal in Washington D.C. at the start of the inaugural US-Africa Leaders Summit in the presence of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Senegal, Mr. Mankeur Ndiaye, and Mr. Joseph C. Brandt, President & Chief Executive Officer of ContourGlobal. The project, located on the outskirts of the capital city Dakar, and called ContourGlobal Cap des Biches, will be constructed on an existing power plant site acquired by ContourGlobal in May 2013. ContourGlobal will install Wartsila 18V46 high efficiency engines, a technology that has been used by ContourGlobal in Togo and Rwanda. The engines will be coupled with a steam turbine technology known as "flexi-cycle" to increase the generation capacity, thereby further reducing the cost of electricity.

"We are excited to have signed the addition of much needed new electricity generation to the growing Senegalese economy on the eve of the historic US-Africa Leaders Summit. By utilizing the infrastructure at the existing site, we are able to provide SENELEC with the lowest cost electricity in their engine-based generation portfolio, replacing expensive emergency power rental equipment. By designing the project with Wartsila so that it can quickly be converted to natural gas, we are working to fulfill the promise made by President Macky Sall to diversify the Senegalese power infrastructure away from liquid fuels," said Mr. Brandt.

Mr. Ndiaye commented, "The Power Purchase Agreement for a 53 MW power plant using Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) contributes to the success of the strategic vision of President Macky Sall set out in his 'Plan Senegal Emergent' (PSE). This investment, of more than $100 million, will help to reinforce the production capacity of SENELEC and will allow us to satisfy the expectation of the population."

ContourGlobal also announced today that Cheick-Oumar Sylla will join ContourGlobal to lead ContourGlobal's operations in Africa and serve as a member of ContourGlobal's Executive Committee. Mr. Sylla previously served as the Executive Vice President at the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD), Member of the Islamic Development Bank (IDB), where he ran the Direct Investment and Financing Department. While at ICD from 2011 to August 2014, Mr. Sylla oversaw existing and new investments in Africa. Mr. Sylla was also responsible from May 2014 for directing ICD's banking operations in West Africa on special assignment as Chief Executive Officer & General Manager of Tamweel Africa Holding.

"ContourGlobal is one of the most innovative power companies in the market and I am excited to have been chosen to lead Contour's business in Africa," Mr. Sylla commented. "This is a unique opportunity to join a fast growing, dynamic but established company and continue to contribute to the growth of the power sector in Africa."

About ContourGlobal

ContourGlobal is an international generation company, headquartered in New York with approximately 3,718 MW in operation and under construction in 17 countries and on four continents. With 1,600 employees, the company operates a portfolio of 41 plants using a wide range of fuels and technologies, including the production of renewable energy from hydro, wind, solar and biomass sources, as well as an extensive fleet of conventional thermal.

SOURCE ContourGlobal
DALLAS, Jan. 27, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Recognizing the importance of safety net in the time of economic uncertainties, Marcus Hiles and his company Western Rim Property Services offer medical benefits to staff members at no cost. With Republican President Donald Trump's proposed prioritization of policy changes, Western Rim Property Services is leading the way in business ethics and conscientious responsibility. As the healthcare industry in the United States continues to develop, company subsidized wellness benefits form an integral cornerstone of compensation packages in the labor market.

Although the Affordable Care Act requires most businesses to support medical coverage, the number of companies that offer to pay 100% of premiums has decreased since 2001. The emphasis on benefits by Western Rim Property Services is an ambitious and concerted effort to prioritize preventive medicine in the United States.

Western Rim Property Services offer a competitive and comprehensive benefit package to full-time staff that includes medical insurance, dental insurance, and life insurance. Further benefits include paid vacation, holiday, sick days, profit participation, retirement contribution accounts, and tuition reimbursement.

Marcus Hiles, Founder of Western Rim Property Services, believes that wellness is important to American job seekers and their families. By providing 100% company paid benefits to its staff members, Western Rim Property Services positions itself as an outstanding model of ethical leadership in business. This value-based decision making is reflected in the quality of services offered to both customers and employees.

As a philanthropist, volunteer, and real estate expert, Marcus Hiles raises the bar for citizenship and entrepreneurship. His commitment to service stretches beyond his extraordinary success in real estate development as the Chairman and CEO of Western Rim Property Services. His dedication to family and community is exemplified by contributing over $2.5 million to K-12 school programs -- including hundreds of brand new Dell computers donated this year to inner city youth. As the son of a humble minister, his charity includes 59 personal acres of land gifted to the public for parks and environmental conservation and the construction of two churches.

Marcus Hiles - Chairman & CEO of Western Rim Property Services: http://www.MarcusHiles-News.com

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Lewis and Clark County commissioners have been asked to commit to joining the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority, a move they have put off for years over some concerns.
If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this





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New York, Jan 26 : Taking its legal fight against the US chip-maker Qualcomm global, Apple has filed two complaints in Chinese courts alleging that Qualcomm's patent-licensing practices amount to extortion.

The move comes days after Apple sued Qualcomm for nearly $1 billion over royalties, with Cupertino-based tech giant alleging the wireless chipmaker did not give fair licensing terms for its processor technology.

"Apple has filed two complaints against Qualcomm in China. One of the complaints alleges a violation of China's Anti-Monopoly Law and the other requests a determination of the terms of a patent license between Qualcomm and Apple for Qualcomm's cellular standard essentials patents," Qualcomm said in a statement on Wednesday.

However, Qualcomm said it had not seen the Chinese complaints but learned about them from a Beijing Intellectual Property Court news release.

"These filings by Apple's Chinese subsidiary are just part of its efforts to find ways to pay less for Qualcomm's technology. Apple was offered terms consistent with terms accepted by more than one hundred other Chinese companies and refused to even consider them," said Don Rosenberg, Executive Vice President of Qualcomm.

Recently, the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) accused Qualcomm of maintaining a monopoly over chips for cellular phones through a "no license, no chips" policy under which it will supply its baseband processors only on the condition that cell phone manufacturers agree to Qualcomm's preferred license terms.

While Apple uses its homegrown processors to power the iPhone, it relies on modem chips from Qualcomm especially in the US.

According to a report in Los Angeles Times on Wednesday, in early 2015, Qualcomm paid a $975 million fine and lowered certain patent royalty rates for certain smartphones sold only in China as part of a settlement with China's anti-monopoly regulator.

"Qualcomm offered a patent license to Apple for Chinese sales with terms similar to those of the settlement. Apple declined to take the license, saying Qualcomm was still charging too much for key cellular patents," the report noted.

Qualcomm said it was prepared to defend its business model anywhere in the world.

Even though Apple has sued Qualcomm, the US chip-maker reportedly does not intend to stop doing business with the iPhone maker.
New Delhi, Jan 27 : President Pranab Mukherjee on Friday accepted the resignation of Meghalaya Governor V. Shanmuganathan, who put in his papers on Thursday following charges of sexual harassment against him.

Shanmuganathan, who also held the additional charge of Arunachal Pradesh, tendered his resignation to "ensure a free and impartial probe into the charges against him".

His resignation came after nearly 100 employees of the Raj Bhavan in Shillong on Wednesday, sent a five-page letter to the Prime Minister's Office and the Rashtrapati Bhavan demanding recall of the Governor for what they alleged was "turning the Raj Bhavan into a Young Ladies Club".

According to a Rashtrapati Bhavan media statement, Assam Governor Banwarilal Purohit will act as the the Governor of Meghalaya in the interim, while Nagaland Governor Padmanabha Balakrishna Acharya will take over additional charge of Arunachal Pradesh.

From the time Shanmuganathan took over, the Raj Bhavan employees alleged, they were going through "severe humiliation, mental stress and torture".

The protest letter by the Raj Bhavan staff came after an English daily report quoted a woman who accused the Governor of making advances by "hugging and kissing her".

The woman was one of seven candidates selected for an interview for the post of a Public Relations Officer at the Raj Bhavan.

The Governor had denied the charges.

Meanwhile, the Congress has demanded criminal action be initiated against Shanmuganathan.

"We are demanding an FIR (first information report) be filed against him and an enquiry be conducted. The allegations against him are serious," said Congress spokesperson Tom Vadakkan.

Besides the Congress and the Janata Dal United demanding his removal, civil society groups in Meghalaya had launched a signature campaign to demand the immediate recall of the Governor.

Shanmuganathan, 68, a veteran Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) activist from Tamil Nadu, was sworn in as Meghalaya Governor on May 20, 2015.

He was given the additional charge of Arunachal Pradesh from September 16, 2016. He was also Governor in charge of Manipur from September 2015 to August 2016.

He is expected to arrive in the national capital on the day.
Washington, Jan 28 : Ties between the US and Britain have "never been stronger", US President Donald Trump said here as he welcomed British Prime Minister Theresa May to the White House.

"Great days lie ahead... On behalf of our nation, I thank you for joining us here today as a really great honor," Trump said during a joint press conference with May on Friday, the first foreign leader to meet the new US president, Efe news reported.

"Thank you for inviting me so soon after your inauguration and I'm delighted to be able to congratulate you on what was a stunning election victory," May said, going on to hail the US-Britain special relationship -- "a relationship based on the bonds of history, of family, kinship and common interests".

Trump, alluding to London's "Brexit" plan for withdrawal from the European Union, spoke of a "free and independent Britain" as a blessing and said that the US-Britain "relationship has never been stronger".

Both leaders agreed that negotiations on a new US-Britain trade pact will begin once London has completed the Brexit process and May announced that Trump had accepted Queen Elizabeth II's invitation for a state visit to Britain later this year.

When the subject shifted to international issues, May took the opportunity to reassure Europe regarding Trump's view of NATO, an alliance he has described as obsolete.

"Today we've reaffirmed our unshakeable commitment to this alliance -- Mr. President I think you confirmed that you are 100 per cent behind NATO," the British Prime Minister said.

In response to a question about Western sanctions against Russia over Moscow's annexation of Crimea, May said that Britain and other European nations wanted to see them continue.

Trump, who calls for better relations with Russia, said that it was "very early to be talking about" lifting the sanctions.

Time was also spent on the question of torture, which Trump praised during the election campaign and again this week in an interview.

Before making the trip to Washington, May faced pressure - even from within her own Conservative Party - to emphasize Britain's opposition to torture.

When the matter came up during Friday's press conference, Trump said he would be guided by the judgment of Defense Secretary James Mattis, a retired general who has disputed the effectiveness of torture methods such as waterboarding.

"He has stated publicly that he does not necessarily believe in torture or waterboarding, or however you want to define it," Trump said. "I don't necessarily agree. But I would tell you that he will override because I'm giving him that power. He's an expert."
Washington, Jan 28 : US President Donald Trump has signed two executive actions including one limiting the flow of refugees into the US by instituting what the President has called "extreme vetting" of immigrants.

"I am establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America," Trump said on Friday during the signing at the Pentagon after the swearing-in of Defense Secretary James Mattis, CNN reported.

"We don't want them here," the president said.

Titled "Protection Of The Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry Into The United States," the executive order would start to make good on Trump's promise to tighten borders and halt certain refugees from entering the US.

He added, "We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas. We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people."

At the Pentagon, Trump met privately for about an hour with Mattis, Vice President Mike Pence, Security Adviser Mike Flynn and military officials and they discussed accelerating the defeat of IS, confronting global threats like North Korea, military readiness and the National Guard, a Defense official told CNN.

The meeting took place in "the tank," secure room where the Joint Chiefs meet.

Trump also signed a second executive action on Friday that would spur military spending and, as Trump said, "begin the great rebuilding of the Armed Services of the US."

The President added that the executive action instructs Mattis to begin "developing a plan for new planes, new ships, new resources and new tools for our men and women in uniform."

According to drafts of the order obtained by CNN, the order bars all persons from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia or Yemen from entering the US for 30 days and suspends the US Refugee Admissions Program for 120 days until it is reinstated "only for nationals of countries for whom" members of Trump's Cabinet deem can be properly vetted.

The total number of refugees admitted into the US would also be capped during the 2017 fiscal year at 50,000, down more than half from the current level of 110,000.

Democrats blasted Trump's move -- despite not having the text of the documents -- arguing that while it may not ban all Muslims from entering the US, it still is discriminatory.

"Make no mistake -- this is a Muslim ban," Sen. Kamala Harris, a Democrat from California, said in a statement.

"Tears are running down the cheeks of the Statue of Liberty tonight as a grand tradition of America, welcoming immigrants, that has existed since America was founded has been stomped upon," Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a statement.

"Taking in immigrants and refugees is not only humanitarian but has also boosted our economy and created jobs decade after decade. This is one of the most backward and nasty executive orders that the president has issued."

The American Civil Liberties Union also called Trump's action "just a euphemism for discrimination against Muslims."

The White House has not yet released the official text of the executive actions.
Washington, Jan 28 : British Prime Minister Theresa May announced Donald Trump is to make a state visit to Britain, as she sought to cement her relationship with the new US President.

Speaking at the White House on Friday, May congratulated Trump on his "stunning victory", said she had secured an assurance of US support for NATO, and made early progress on discussions about a US-Britain trade deal, CNN reported.

Trump said he was "honored" that May had agreed to be the first foreign leader to visit after his inauguration. He predicted they would build a strong partnership.

Calling May "Madam Prime Minister," Trump said that the relationship between the two countries was a "force for peace," adding that a free and independent Britain was a "blessing to the world."

May said Trump had accepted an invitation conveyed from Queen Elizabeth and would come to Britain later this year.

State visits are typically characterized by pomp and ceremony, and generally include a banquet with the Queen. It is unusual for US leaders to be offered full state visits so early in their terms.

May said that she is willing to voice her differences with the US administration. "There will be times when we disagree. The point of the special relationship is that we have that open and frank discussion," May said.

Asked whether the "hard-working daughter of a vicar" and a brash businessman could get along, Trump quipped: "I'm not as brash as you might think."

"I'm a people person and I think you are too Theresa. I think were going to have a fantastic relationship," Trump said.

But some potential disagreements did emerge during the news conference, with May voicing her support for sanctions against Russia in the wake of its annexation of Crimea from Ukraine.

While Trump said that it was "too early" to talk about sanctions, he re-stated his hope for a good relationship with Russia -- as good, he said, as with Britain.

Despite calls from Members of Parliament, including high-profile Conservatives, to denounce torture, May demurred on the issue.

Trump reiterated his support for torture but said he would defer to his Defense Secretary, James Mattis, who has made it clear he would operate within the law.
Washington, Jan 28 : US President Donald Trump said persecuted Christians will be given priority over other refugees seeking to enter the US, saying they have been "horribly treated".

Speaking with the Christian Broadcasting Network on Friday, Trump said that it had been "impossible, or at least very tough" for Syrian Christians to enter the US, CNN reported.

"If you were a Muslim you could come in, but if you were a Christian, it was almost impossible and the reason that was so unfair -- everybody was persecuted, in all fairness -- but they were chopping off the heads of everybody but more so the Christians. And I thought it was very, very unfair. So we are going to help them."

Trump did not name a reason or offer any evidence about why the agencies that vet refugees, including the Department of Homeland Security and the State Department, would have prioritized Muslim refugees over Christians.

According to a report by the non-partisan Pew Research Center, however, 99 per cent of the nearly 12,600 Syrians granted refugee status last year were Muslims. Less than 1 per cent were Christian. Syria's population is 87 per cent Muslim and 10 per cent Christian, according to the CIA World Fact Book.

Also on Friday, Trump signed an executive order freezing refugee applications from seven Muslim-majority countries in the Middle East and Africa, including Syria. It's unclear how his pledge to help persecuted Christians from those countries will accord with that plan.

The US admitted a record number of 38,901 Muslim refugees in 2016, according to a study conducted by Pew. But nearly the same number of Christians, 37,521 were also admitted.

Many religious groups have denounced Trump's proposed ban on refugees from Muslim-majority countries.

At the same time, many Christian groups that resettle refugees in the US decry the persecution of their brethren overseas but said the country should not give favour to fellow Christians or bar Muslims.

"We would resist that strongly," Scott Arbeiter, president of World Relief, the humanitarian arm of the National Association of Evangelicals and one of nine agencies that partner with the federal government to resettle refugees.

"Some of the most vulnerable people in the world right now are Muslims. If we say no Muslim should be let in, we are denying the humanity and dignity of people made in the image of God."
Thiruvananthapuram, January 28 : Lawyer and noted political commentator A Jayashankar has slammed young CPI(M) legislator M Swaraj over the latters silence on the indefinite strike being staged by students of all major political parties demanding the resignation of Kerala law academy law college principal Lakshmi Nair.

In a facebook post on Friday, Jayashankar alleged that Swaraj was keeping mum on the issue because he had obtained admission to the law academy through the backdoor and had graduated with good marks.

As a legislator and state secretary of DYFI and former SFI state president, it was incumbent on Swaraj to pay a visit to the college to express solidarity with the striking students even as senior leaders cutting across party lines have called on the agitating students.

Even as student outfits of all major political parties have been staging a sustained agitation against the college, prominent young leaders of the parties have been conspicuous by their absence.

Jayashankars rationale for this is that young leaders, cutting across party lines, are products of Kerala law academy law college and are keeping off the agitation for fear that recommendation letters that facilitated their admissions would surface.

Stating that the academy never had a front door but only a back door and that the only eligibility for the three-year LL.B. course at the college used to be political recommendation, Jayashankar says that young leaders who scraped through exams could enrol in no other law college but the privately-owned law academy.

The CPI(M) state leadership has shown a disinclination to intervene in the law academy issue even as senior leader and former chief minister V S Achuthanandan has called for government intervention to resolve the impasse at the college.

BJP national executive member V Muraleedharan is staging an indefinite hunger strike at the college in solidarity with the agitating students.

The agitating student outfits have vowed not to call off the strike until the college principal steps down.

The students have been on the warpath against the management, accusing the law academy principal of high handedness and committing such wrongs as demeaning students by calling them by their caste names, forcing students belonging to backward communities to work at food outlets run by the principal, discrimination in giving internal marks, violation of students privacy by installing CCTVs in the college etc.
ALBERTON -- A night-long standoff in a mobile home on the west end of this Mineral County town ended without incident Friday morning after a Missoula SWAT team was called to the scene.

Leonard Upton, 33, surrendered and was taken into custody after at around 9:30 a.m., Mineral County Sheriff Tom Bauer said. Upton was charged with two counts of endangerment and one count of assault, all felonies.

Bauer said he was called to Alberton by deputies at 11:30 p.m. Thursday. Upton allegedly got into a disagreement with his wife, who eventually left the trailer and went to her sisters home nearby.

According to Bauer, Upton was agitated and shot out a window in the sisters trailer with a BB gun. He also had a .38 revolver that he pointed at some people, Bauer said.

Sheriffs deputies established a perimeter around the house, turned off the power, and attempted to negotiate with Upton.

He poked his head out a few times, the last time about 3:30 this morning, Bauer said. We had no contact after that, so at probably 5 or 6 (a.m.) I spoke with Missoula County Undersheriff Jason Johnson and requested a SWAT team to come.

The Special Weapons and Tactics team arrived at around 8 a.m. and nearby residences were evacuated at around 9 a.m. Upton surrendered 30 minutes later.

Bauer said the sheriffs office is familiar with Upton, who had several scrapes with the law when he lived in St. Regis. This was the first run-in with him in Alberton, the sheriff said.
New Delhi : The talks held on January 23-24, in Kazakhstan's capital Astana, should be seen against the grim toll of the turmoil in Syria that began in February/March of 2011: More than half-a- million Syrians dead, half the 22.5 million population displaced -- with over five million outside the country -- and unfortunately no end in sight for the inexorably unfolding tragedy.

The participants were seven: Russia, Turkey, Iran, the Syrian regime, the UN represented by its mediator Staffan di Mistura, the armed rebels led by Mohammed Alloush (politburo member of Jaish al-Islam -- one of the armed groups) and the US as an observer. The initiative for the talks came from Russia, Turkey and Iran, with Russia in the driver's seat. The three are the "guarantors" of the cease-fire announced on December 30, 2016.

Turkey has recently moved closer to Russia on Syria and there is a degree of understanding between the two along with some mutual accommodation, though they still might have differences about the desired final outcome. Russian President Vladimir Putin adroitly chose the date January 23 keeping in mind the presidential inauguration of Donald Trump -- former President Barack Obama had, ever since the annexation of the Crimea in 2014, "demonised" Putin.

Let us look at the political context of the talks. On December 22, eastern Aleppo, held by the rebels since 2012, fell to forces of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad supported by Russia and Iran. On December 30, a ceasefire and talks at Astana were announced. The ceasefire, though broken repeatedly, more by Assad than by his foes, has generally held mainly because the rebels, receiving less and less external support, are in no position to fight Assad. They cannot defy Turkey as it either provides military supplies or permits the passage of such supplies from others through its territory. The ceasefire did not necessarily indicate a serious readiness to talk and settle matters on the part of the warring foes.

In listing the participants, we have mentioned "the armed rebels". A list of the rebel groups that attended the Astana talks has not been published. But we have a list of the groups that had agreed to the ceasefire as per a notification of the Russian Defence Ministry: Feilak al Sham with 4,000 fighters, Ahrar al Sham (16,000), Jaysh al Islam (12,000), Thuwar al Sham (2,500), Jaysh al-Mujahideen (8,000), Jaysh Idlib (6,000), and Jabhat al-Shamiya (3,000).

Some Kurds attended the talks, but Turkey saw to it that its foes PYD (Democratic Union Party) and YPG (People's Protection Units) were not invited. YPG is closely allied to the US in its fight against the Islamic State. YPG provides the boots on the ground while the US Air Force carries out the bombings.

The Assad regime was represented by its Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Jaafari. Iran, Russia, and Turkey too were represented at a similar level. There was a significant difference between Astana and the various meetings in Geneva, Vienna and elsewhere that have taken place under the auspices of the UN or that of US-Russia. This time the rebels were represented not by civilians but by the commanders. Russia sent General Stanislav Gadjimagomedov, underlining the military dimension of the talks.

There was difference of opinion between Iran and Russia over inviting the US as Trump has adopted a hostile stance towards the Iran nuclear deal. But Russia prevailed, as expected. Russia had earlier said that it was inviting Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Jordan and Egypt. Obviously, the decision to invite them was changed.

The delegation of the Syrian regime and the other delegates from that country refused to talk directly to each other. They communicated through the "guarantors". Jaafari referred to the rebels as "terrorists" as, for Assad, anyone opposed to him is a terrorist. The three "guarantors" issued a joint statement read out by Kazakhstan Foreign Minister Kairat Abdhrakhmanov, not subscribed to by the rebels.

The joint statement of the three guarantors is rather anodyne. They "reiterate their determination to fight jointly against ISIL/Daesh and al-Nusra (Front) and to separate from them armed opposition groups". This is nothing new.

The guarantors "express their conviction that there is no military solution to the Syrian conflict and that it can only be solved through a political process". This is rather strange as the three countries are engaged in a military solution to the Syrian crisis. They have compelled their client, namely, the Assad regime, to attend the meeting only to see whether it can get the rebels to surrender their arms as a pre-condition to political talks.

The rebels did not associate themselves with the joint statement because their demands about the lifting of siege, release of prisoners, and delivery of aid to besieged areas were not agreed to by Assad. In short, the surrender that Assad was wanting did not occur.

The next round of talks is in Geneva under the auspices of the UN on February 8. Even more important than the Astana talks is the likelihood of Trump and Putin formally agreeing on a united fight against the Islamic State and al Qaeda. The latter two hold considerable territory -- with the Islamic State alone holding territory as large as Florida.

We have to wait and watch how that war will unfold as it will cause large-scale civilian casualties. Even if that war succeeds, peace and normalcy will elude Syria unless there is a political resolution of the crisis, the moot questions being Assad's continuance in power and the shape and future of post-Assad Syria.

(Ambassador K.P. Fabian is a retired Indian diplomat who served in the Middle East and has deep knowledge of the region. The article is in special arrangement with South Asia Monitor/www.southasiamonitor.org)
Mumbai, Jan 28 : Veteran actor Anupam Kher has praised actress Vidya Balan for her grace, charm and brilliance.

Vidya visited Anupam's acting school Actor Prepares for a masterclass and he said that the students and teachers absolutely loved it.

Anupam also shared a few photographs, where he and Vidya are seen posing with the students.

"Thank you Vidya Balan for your grace, charm, magnanimity and brilliance today at Actor Prepares. Our students/teachers loved your master class," Anupam captioned the image on Friday night.

On the acting front, Vidya will next be seen in "Begum Jaan", a remake of the 2015 Bengali film "Rajkahini".

The film is scheduled for release on March 17.

She will also be seen in "Tumhari Sulu", where the actress will play the role of a late night radio jockey.
Mumbai, Jan 28 : Actor Shahid Kapoor, who shot portions of his upcoming film "Rangoon" in Pasighat, bonded with a commando stationed in Arunachal Pradesh while shooting for the film.

The commando whose name is Bomi, was assigned to take care of Shahid while the cast and crew shot at Pasighat in Arunachal Pradesh.

The two grew so close that Bomi even requested travelling with him to their schedule in Rohtang Pass.

"Shahid and Bomi spent several days together while shooting 'Rangoon'. Shahid was very interested in getting to know his life and the challenges soldiers face. He has a lot of admiration for our security forces and was happy to see Bomi enjoy the shoot so much," a source said.

The source also shared that Shahid ensured the commando travelled with the team to the next schedule and gifted him a leather jacket and a pair of boots.

Directed by Vishal Bhardwaj, "Rangoon" is a period film set during World War II (1939-1945) and also stars Kangana Ranaut and Saif Ali Khan in lead roles.

The film supposedly portrays the life and times of Mary Ann Evans aka Fearless Nadia, Bollywood's original stuntwoman, still remembered for her fiery role in the movie "Hunterwali".

The film is scheduled for release on February 24.
Islamabad, Jan 28 : Pakistan has expressed hope that the Saarc summit, which was boycotted by India and other neighbours last November, will be organised soon. It also urged that "internal and bilateral problems of member states must not be allowed to affect the organisation" - in an apparent reference to India.

Pakistan foreign policy chief Sartaj Aziz on Friday in a meeting with Arjun Bahadur Thapa, the outgoing Secretary General of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc), said that "Islamabad was looking forward to welcoming Saarc leaders for the 19th Summit in November but was postponed when India impeded the process and violated the spirit of the Charter."

Aziz expressed Pakistan's commitment to host the 19th Saarc Summit in Islamabad at the earliest so that the objectives of regional cooperation under the bloc can be pursued more vigorously.

According to Nepal, the current Saarc chair, the conference was cancelled after Bangladesh, Bhutan, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka followed India's decision to boycott the summit on the issue of terrorism.

Thapa emphasised the need to overcome the difficulties that the organisation faced and expressed the hope that the summit would be held as soon as possible.

The boycott from India came as relations between the neighbouring nations dipped in the wake of the September 18 attack on an Indian Army base in Uri town of Jammu and Kashmir that left 19 soldiers dead. India blamed Pakistani militants for the attack.

Tensions between the two countries shot up following the prolonged unrest in July in the Kashmir Valley, and escalated markedly after India said it had conducted surgical strikes across the Line of Control on September 29.
New Delhi, Jan 28 : A four-month-old baby girl was found abandoned near a temple in a forested area here on Saturday, police said.

Police said a priest of the temple in Tughlakabad village found the baby around 8 a.m.

According to police, Sandeep Shastri, who stays in the temple, went to answer nature's call and found the girl crying from cold and hunger.

He inquired about her from the locals and later informed the police.

"I heard the child crying and ran for help. Fortunately, dogs who roam around the temple for eatables, did not attack her. Her parents may have dumped her early morning in the forest," Shastri told IANS.

The child has been admitted to All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS) child care centre.

"She is medically fit. We are seeking the help of some private NGOs for her," a senior police official said.

"The police are investigating the matter and trying to locate her parents. A team with the child's photograph is also inquiring in the surrounding areas to find her mother," the official said.
New Delhi : Mehsana (Gujarat): As far as the eye can see, line after line of solar panels stretch out in the midday sun beating down on the village of Chandrasan here in this eastern Gujarat district, which squeezes in 80 more people per sq km than Indias already crowded average of 441.

But there is no land conflict involved with the Chandrasan installation because the solar panels unfurl over a 750 m length of irrigation canal.

The panels were installed in India's sunniest state in 2012 and now offer hope for a country three times as densely populated as China, at a time when India aims for almost a nine-fold increase in solar capacity between between 2017 and 2022 to fulfil global climate-change commitments and reduce its dependence on coal-fired power plants.

The canal-top idea was first tabled at a 2011 Vibrant Gujarat Summit by the then Chief Minister Narendra Modi, said Bela Jani, a spokesperson at state-owned Gujarat State Electricity Corporation Limited (GSECL). The aim was to utilise the area above the canals, saving the government the cost, time and inconvenience associated with land acquisition.

Gujarat alone has a canal network of 80,000 km. Using even 30 per cent of this network for canal-top solar projects, according to GSECL estimates, 18,000 MW of power could be produced in just Gujarat -- almost equal to the current coal-based installed capacity of Delhi, Rajasthan and Telangana -- and 90,000 acres of land, or twice the size of Kolkata, could be saved.

In other words, installing solar-panels over 30 per cent of Gujarat's canals could be used to meet nearly a fifth of India's solar power targets by 2022.

Currently, about 100 MW of solar installations atop and besides canals are either approved or under construction in eight Indian states. Government subsidies are limited to public-sector companies that own canals or canal banks, but, if successful, private-sector involvement is inevitable.

Solar power is important to India's future electricity needs

Coal generates over 75 per cent of India's electricity and is among the cheapest energy sources available, IndiaSpend reported in May 2015.

With over 300 million Indians without reliable energy, and industrial demand growing, the need for coal-fired electricity is estimated to increase three times by 2030, with consequent environmental impacts.

But in talking about what he calls the "seven horses of energy" -- coal, nuclear, hydro, gas, solar, wind and biogas -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi has declared that India's efforts should increasingly move towards the latter three.

The real potential in a sunny country to replace fossil fuels is solar: India has a renewable-energy potential of about 895 GW, of which 750 GW is solar, as IndiaSpend reported in February 2015.

By 2022, solar energy could achieve grid-parity in India, meaning it would cost the same as other sources of electricity -- although some reports suggest this might happen by 2018. That is the year, as another IndiaSpend report said, the renewable-energy sector, primarily solar, could generate 1 million jobs -- over the 400,000 that already exist, according to a 2016 status report by Renewable Energy Policy Network for the 21st Century, a global, multi-stakeholder network based out of Paris.

Solar power plants can be built faster than either coal, gas or nuclear power plants. Further, in the decade ending 2014, solar installed capacity went up from 2.6 GW to 139 GW, a jump of 50 times over the initial capacity in just 10 years, largely because of falling costs and improving solar-cell technology.

The critical issue around solar installations in India is space, as IndiaSpend reported in May 2015. That is where the nation's canals come in.

Canal-top solar power is most efficient, has longer life and saves water

The power output of ground-mounted solar panels decreases at a rate of 1 per cent every year for the first 10 years. However, panels mounted on Chandrasan's canal showed no degradation and power generated stayed stable over the past three years, according to research conducted by the Gujarat Energy Research and Management Institute (GERMI), a research institution promoted by the Gujarat State Petroleum Corporation Ltd, a central government undertaking.

"Not only do they perform more efficiently, but because we can assume that the generated electricity is utilised in nearby areas, the transmission losses of (normally) 4 per cent and distribution losses of 3 per cent are avoided," said Sagarkumar Agravat, head of GERMI's solar research and development.

Apart from this, since the panels are placed on top of water, they are cooled from below, which also increases their efficiency and enhances output by 2.5-5 per cent.

Essentially, this means the panels will last longer than 25 years, which is the average lifespan of a ground-mounted solar panel, while producing more power due to increased efficiency.

The study concluded that canal-top installations outperform both traditional ground- mounted solar installations and systems on canal banks.

Canal-top panels, by absorbing heat, help reduce water evaporation. A 1-MW canal-top plant can save the evaporation of up to 9 million litres of water per year, according to a GSECL estimate shared with IndiaSpend, saving enough to provide 2,500 households with 10 litres of water every day for a year. As more canals are covered, the savings increase.

The use of solar energy also stops the emission of close to 1.28 million metric tonnes per year of carbon dioxide (CO2), a major greenhouse gas, according to this report. This is roughly equivalent to the annual energy use of 110,000 American households saved from a 1 MW plant.

Why solar power is important to India's climate-change commitments

By 2030, global greenhouse-gas emissions are expected to reach 54-56 giga-tonnes of CO2 equivalent (GtCO2eq) -- far exceeding the level of 42 required to limit global warming to 2 degrees C by 2100, according to data from the Emissions Gap Report 2016, compiled by the United Nations Environment Programme every year.

The Paris Agreement, which aims to hold temperature rise to below 2AC by 2100 compared to pre-industrial levels, came into force on November 4, 2016, barely a month after India ratified the treaty on October 2, 2016.

The 2016 Emissions Gap Report also states that despite full implementation of all the Paris pledges submitted by countries under their Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), global temperatures are still set to rise to levels ranging from 2.9AC to 3.4AC. This means that countries must now go beyond their intended contributions if they hope to arrest global warming.

As part of its Intended Nationally Determined Contribution, India has committed to source 40 per cent of its electricity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030. By October 2016, renewable installations amounted to nearly 15 per cent of the installed energy capacity, according to the Central Electricity Authority.

(In arrangement with IndiaSpend.org, a data-driven, non-profit, public interest journalism platform, with whom Mukta Patil is an analyst. The views expressed are those of IndiaSpend. Feedback at respond@indiaspend.org)
Visakhapatnam, Jan 28 : Two coastal economic zones will be created at a cost of Rs 20,000 crore as part of the Sagarmala project in Andhra Pradesh, Union Minister for Road Transport, Highways and Shipping Nitin Gadkari said on Saturday.

Addressing the Partnership Summit, he said both the zones -- one covering Srikakulam to Vijayawada and the other from Vijayawada to Nellore -- will come under Visakhapatnam-Chennai industrial corridor.

He said the commerce ministry was planning 14 coastal economic zones in the country as part of the ambitious Sagarmala project, which will create direct employment for 40 lakh people and indirect employment for 60 lakh.

"This is an ambitious project in which Rs.15 lakh crore investment is expected. Out of this, Rs 4 lakh crore will be in port modernization, mechanization and port road and port rail connectivity," he said.

He pointed out that providing highway and rail connectivity to these zones would be the responsibility of his ministry while the state government will have to provide land, power and other infrastructure.

A Port Rail Connectivity Corporation has already been formed and work has started. The ministry plans to start railway work worth over Rs 1 lakh crore before the end of the five-year term of the government.

Stating that port-led development is important for double digit growth, he said priority was being given to the sector.

The minister said the government has also decided to give the highest priority to waterways to bring down the cost of transportation. The project will cover 111 rivers in the country.

National Waterway 4 or Buckingham Canal (1,095-km long) will be developed in Andhra Pradesh and will connect Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. He announced that work on Buckingham canal in Andhra Pradesh will begin after the assembly elections in Punjab and Uttar Pradesh.

The cost of this joint venture project between the state and central governments is Rs 2,000 crore.

A subsidiary company will be created which will be merged with Visakhapatnam Port as the idea is to use the profits of this port for Buckingham canal.

He said last year all major ports and flagship organisations -- Cochin Shipyard, Shipping Corporation of India and Dredging Corporation of India -- made a profit of Rs 6,000 crore and this year the profit is expected to be Rs 7,000 crore.

Gadkari said Rs 7,000 crore was being invested in Visakhapatnam port, which is the second largest port in the country.

According to the minister, a Rs 1,665 crore project was already completed while work is on for a Rs 2,702 crore project. Within three months, the ministry will award a Rs 1,200 crore project.

The minister announced that work on the Amaravati-Anantapur highway will start as soon as possible.

He also promised to start work on the Raipur-Visakhapatnam highway suggested by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu.

This 750 km long highway will cost Rs 5,000 crore and it is expected to connect Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.
Jammu, Jan 28 : Jammu and Kashmir police used batons and tear smoke shells on Saturday to disperse people agitating for reservations.

The scheduled caste and scheduled tribe communities took out a protest march in Jammu to press for reservations.

As the protesters demanded that some officials from the government must meet them to address their demands, police erected barricades to stop their march near Indira Chowk.

The protesters brought down the barricades after which the police used batons and tear smoke shells.
Washington, Jan 28 : Google has recalled its travelling staff members back to the US after an executive order from President Donald Trump restricting entry for nationals of seven Muslim-majority countries, the media reported.

Syrian refugees are banned from entry until further notice. Visas for nationals of six countries, including Iran and Iraq, will not be issued for the next three months.

Google said it is concerned about the order and any measures which could block great talent from the US, reported the BBC on Saturday.

Trump's order means that thousands of citizens from Iran, Iraq, Syria, Yemen, Sudan, Somalia and Libya may not be allowed to board flights bound for the US - even if they hold "green card" (permanent residents' permit).

Trump said the measure would "keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the US". But rights groups said there is no link between Syrian refugees in the US and terrorism, according to the report.

According to the BBC, there were already reports of travellers from the countries targeted being turned away as they tried to board flights to the US.

Some Republicans welcomed Trump's announcement, including the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Paul Ryan, who said it was "time to re-evaluate and strengthen the visa vetting process".
London, Jan 28 : The Church of England, in a report, has rejected the idea of changing its opposition to same-sex marriage, despite saying that it needs to "repent on the homophobic attitudes" it has previously had.

The report, entitled "Marriage and Same Sex Relationships After the Shared Conversations", from the House of Bishops on Friday said the Church should adopt a "fresh tone and culture of welcome and support" for gay people.

It said guidance in marriage should be interpreted in a way that provides "maximum freedom" for homosexuals, reported the Independent.

New teachings on marriage and relationships should also be drawn up to replace those introduced in the 1990s, it suggested.

Maintaining its opposition to same-sex marriage, the House of Bishops said that there is "little support for changing the Church of England's teaching on marriage" that it is between one man and one woman.

The Right Reverend Graham James, Bishop of Norwich, said at a press conference that the church should not "adapt its doctrine to the fashions of any particular time".

"We hope the tone and register of this report will help to commend it, though we recognise it will be challenging reading for some," said Rev. James, who will present the document to the General Synod on February 15.

"This is no last word on this subject. For there are very different views on same-sex relationships within the church, and within the house of bishops, mainly based on different understandings of how to read scripture."

The report also said there was "some support" in the House for the new document, including "penitence for the treatment some lesbian and gay people have received at the hands of the Church".

Sex between two men over 21 and "in private", in England and Wales, was legalised in 1967. The age of consent was lowered to 16 in 2000.

The Marriage (Same-Sex Couples) Act was passed for England and Wales in 2013 and came into force the following year.

The same House of Bishops report has been criticised for adopting a "don't ask, don't tell" stance on gay clergy -- a reference to the former US military policy.

It said that singling out the personal sexual conduct of gay applicants was "pastorally unhelpful".

The Lesbian and Gay Christian Movement charity said, in an open letter: "You are proposing to formalise Don't Ask, Don't Tell among clergy in same-sex relationships."

Its chief executive Tracey Bryne said: "Collectively they've failed to deliver."
MISSOULA -- State game wardens killed two more mountain lions in the Grant Creek area of northwest Missoula on Friday as heavy snow continues to push both deer and the predators that hunt them down into the citys northern valleys.

There were multiple incidents where the lions approached adults and children and came within 10 to 20 feet of several individuals, FWP predator manager Jamie Jonkel wrote in an email to residents of the Nevada Trail and Keegan Gulch areas of Grant Creek. The lions were entering sheds, car ports and climbing under porches, vehicles, boats and walking between houses and looking in windows.

Jonkel said game wardens found two juvenile male mountain lions feeding on a deer near a house on Friday morning and killed both of them. They believe two more members of the same family group are also hunting in the area and continue to search for them. The deer carcass was removed in hopes the lions will leave the area on their own.

An adult lion and her three kittens were killed by an FWP game warden on Jan. 17 after the lions killed two dogs in the Grant Creek neighborhood in Missoula.

Deer and elk are concentrated in certain areas along with the predators that hunt them, Jonkel said. Many of these important big game wintering grounds have been subdivided and are now considered to be within the urban-wildlands interface. This winter, Montana residents should expect to see lions and observe lion activity wherever there are concentrations of elk and deer.

That includes the Brookside Way subdivision in the middle Rattlesnake Valley as well. On Friday, FWP officials sent out an alert that residents had reported sightings and tracks near the houses, and asked that people not leave salt or feed out for deer that frequent the area.

Grant Creek resident Bert Lindler said in an email that several wolves have also been sighted in the Grant, Butler and Lavalle Creek areas in the past week or so.

We're in the middle of a tough winter, Lindler wrote. Elk and deer are down low, and the critters that eat elk and deer have no choice but to live nearby. I'm carrying my bear spray when walking my dog this winter. My dog is never far from me.
Jammu, Jan 28 : Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and Leader of Opposition in the state assembly Omar Abdullah on Saturday accused the state government of deliberately allowing dilution of Article 370 that gives special status to the state.

Speaking during the debate on grants to the Home Department in State Assembly, Omar Abdullah accused the state government of not defending the state's interest during the SARFAESI ACT petition in the Supreme Court.

The National Conference leader alleged that the state government did not deliberately defend its case in the apex court and thereby allowed the dilution of Article 370.

Omar warned that such a situation should not arise again as the state has a battery of lawyers who know the state constitution well and can defend it.

"Don't blame us tomorrow if we take up this issue as these are very sensitive issues," he cautioned the government.

He said two years is enough time to make impact and the state government that has been in power for two years cannot hide under the excuse that it got little time so far to make an impact on ground.

"Tell us about one point that showcases your performance and achievements," Omar asked.

He also castigated the state government for turning down the Opposition demand for a judicial probe in 2016 unrest killings.

"Why constitute an SIT and not have a judicial probe," Omar questioned.

"In our time one person (Haji Yusuf) died and you demanded a judicial probe," he added.

The former Chief Minister said his party had never been against the agenda of the PDP and the BJP alliance or its contents.

"We only raised questions on government's failure to implement the agenda of the alliance.

"You are not following the agenda of the alliance, but facilitating Ajit Doval's (NSA) doctrine.

"He delivered a speech in 2010 and what he said is what you are doing right now. He spoke about how the state should deal with Kashmir to marginalise the separatists and how to suppress the agitation," he alleged.

He said the two things could not go together. "Either you implement the agenda of the alliance or implement Ajit Doval's doctrine because there is no meeting point between the two," he said.

Omar also lashed out at Chief Minister, Mehbooba Mufti's last year's speech in which she had asked the security forces to differentiate between local and foreign militants during an encounter.

"In one of your speeches you said that the police should play a fatherly role if the trapped militant is a local.

"Tell me how to implement that? How will you find out that the terrorist trapped is a local and not a foreigner? Have you got any technology for that," he asked Mehbooba Mufti.

Omar Abdullah also criticised the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, saying that Modi spoke about 'Kisan aur Jawan' in his speeches and today the 'Kisans' are committing suicide while the 'Jawans' are being attacked by terrorists.
London, Jan 28 : The European Parliaments chief Brexit negotiator rubbished British Prime Minister Theresa Mays pledge to deliver a new EU trade deal by 2019 as "impossible", a media report said.

Guy Verhofstadt also suggested the British people voted to leave the EU because of a Little Englander mentality. Yet he held out the prospect that Britain could choose to rejoin the bloc one day, saying, "That is always possible", the Independent reported on Friday.

In her Brexit speech earlier in January, the Prime Minister threatened to crash out of the EU with "no deal" if other leaders refused her demands.

However, a day later, May told MPs that she would "deliver" an agreement by Brexit, to avoid inflicting punishing World Trade Organisation tariffs on businesses.

"That's what I'm committed to - and that's what this Government is going to deliver," she said, raising the stakes for the negotiations to come.

But Verhofstadt, a senior Member of European Parliament and former Belgian Prime Minister, dismissed the prospect, in an interview with Al Jazeera English on Friday. "That's technically impossible," he said, referring to the suggested two-year timeline.

EU leaders have insisted Britain must first agree to a suggested 50 billion pounds ($62 billion approx) "divorce bill" - a payment for outstanding liabilities - under the terms of the Article 50 exit clause.

May has threatened to make "other arrangements" if she fails to strike a fresh trade deal before Brexit - widely interpreted as a threat to slash taxes and regulations, to attract investment, said the report.

Verhofstadt also sought to emphasise that the rest of the EU would not be looking to punish Britain in the negotiations.

However, "you can never have outside the European Union a better status than as member of the European Union", he said.
Beijing, Jan 28 : A Chinese military official has said that war with the US is a practical reality, signalling Beijing's preparedness for a possible military conflict with Washington.

In a commentary on the official website of People's Liberation Army, the official at the national defence mobilisation department in the Central Military Commission has said that US rebalancing its strategy in Asia, military deployments in the East and South China Seas and the instillation of a missile defence system in South Korea were hot spots getting closer to ignition.

"A war within the president's term' or 'war breaking out tonight' are not just slogans, they are becoming a practical reality," South China Morning Post quoted the article.

The official People's Daily said in another commentary on Sunday that China's military would conduct exercises on the high seas regardless of foreign provocations.

China's sole aircraft carrier Liaoning passed through the narrow Taiwan Strait last month.

The tensions between the two countries have been on constant rise after Donald Trump's election as the US President. He has infuriated China by challenging on the issues of Taiwan and South China Sea.

The real estate mogul has contested "One China Policy," which considers Taiwan as part of mainland. No US government has done that in the last four decades.

Trump has openly challenged Beijing's sovereignty over the energy-rich South China Sea while his predecessor Barack Obama maintained neutrality over the dispute. However, he did send the US warships to the contested waters, citing the freedom of navigation.

The commentary referred to remarks by the US secretary of state Rex Tillerson hopeful that the US should stop China's access to artificial islands it has built in disputed areas of the South China Sea.

New White House spokesman Sean Spicer told a press conference that the US would prevent China from taking over territory in international waters in the South China Sea.
Kolkata, Jan 28 : A literary session being addressed by student activist Kanhaiya Kumar had to be cut short at the Tata Steel Kolkata Literary Meet (KLM) here on Saturday after ultra-Left activists raised slogans against him.

Kumar, who has penned a book 'Bihar to Tihar', was addressing a session of the KLM at Rabindra Sarobar Stadium here.

But activists, under the platform of Bastar Solidarity Network India, raised slogans against the former Jawaharlal Nehru University's Students' Union president for attending a literary meet organised by the Tatas and "accepting corporate hospitality".

The protesters raised slogans such as "Kashmir Maange Azaadi" and "Maqbool Maange Azaadi" and carried banners criticising the Tata Steel sponsors.

Kumar tried to reason with the protesters, but was forced to halt his programme due to the continuous slogan shouting. He apologised to the audience for not being able to answer their questions.

He also said: "I did not expect this to happen in Kolkata."
New Delhi, Jan 28 : The Arunachal Pradesh tableau was adjudged the best tableau in this year's Republic Day parade while Madras Engineer Group and the CISF won the first prize as top marching contingent, under different categories.

According to a Defence Ministry release, of a total 23 tableaux, including six from Union Ministries/Departments that took part in this year's Republic Day Parade, the first position was bagged by Arunachal Pradesh tableau for depicting the Yak dance.

The Yak dance is one of the most famous pantomimes of the Mahayana sect of Buddhist tribes of Arunachal Pradesh.

In the category of tableaux representing Union Ministries/Departments, the first prize was given to the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship which depicted the theme 'Transforming India through Skill Development', and highlighted the achievements of the Ministry and its programmes.

The tableau presented by the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) depicting the concept of 'Green India-Clean India' was selected for a special prize by the jury.

Tripura's tableau based on 'Hojagiri' dance, depicting the magnificent Reang tribal dance was adjudged the second best, while the third position was shared by Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu.

The tableau of Maharashtra depicted the commemoration of 160th birth anniversary of the honoured freedom fighter Lokmanya Balgangadhar Tilak.

The Tamil Nadu tableau portrayed the popular folk dance 'Karagattam' which forms an important event in temple festival celebrations, especially in Amman temple festivals in the rural areas of Tamil Nadu.

In the competitive category of school children items, the dance presented by Kendriya Vidyalaya, Pitampura, Delhi has been adjudged the best children item for their performance to express how our National Flag has been a witness to the glorious tales of our freedom fighters, establishment of Indian democracy, the endless affection of Indians, women's empowerment and such countless achievements.

A consolation prize has also been awarded to South Central Zone Cultural Centre, Nagpur for their performance of the 'Saila Karma' dance which is a popular dance of the Gond Tribe of Dindori district in Madhya Pradesh.

As in previous years, this year also Ministry of Defence had appointed three panels of judges for assessing the participants.

Madras Engineer Group won the first prize in the services category, while the CISF was adjudged the best marching contingent under the category of Para-Military Forces and other auxiliary marching contingents.
Kolkata, Jan 28 : Former Union Finance Minister P. Chidambaram said on Saturday he supported state funding of elections.

"I would support it (state funding of elections)," he said when asked for comments at the Tata Steel Kolkata Literary meet here.

"Fighting an election has become an extremely costly affair. Even getting a ticket becomes a costly affair for candidates of many parties. It costs much more than the Election Commission legally allows (to fight elections)," the senior Congress leader said.

"Elections cost money. You have to convey your message (to the voters). I have in my constituency, 3000 villages. Even to reach those villages, it costs money," he said.

Chidambaram said he did not know whether his party would support the demand, but would nevertheless raise it in the Congress.

Further, he called for a transparent system through which business could fund elections and find legal alternative means of funding elections through electoral trusts.

"Businessmen are like any other citizens, entitled to support their causes, which will advance business. We must encourage businessmen to set up electoral trusts and make donations to political parties," he added.

Electoral trusts are considered as non profit companies in India. Trusts can receive voluntary contributions from any Indian citizen or a registered Indian company for the purpose of financing of elections of a registered political party. Section 17CA of Income Tax Rules lays specifies the functions of an electoral trust.

Chidambaram also questioned on election expenditure fixed by the election commission limits.

"How do you fight a parliament election with Rs 35 lakh? Why should you fight an election with only this amount? We must realistically fix the levels of expenditure and at the same time allow businesses to fund elections through electoral trusts," he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his speech on the New Year Eve called for debate on the need to reduce election expenditure.

Asked if Modi was growing popular post demonetisation, he said: "I do not know who will be the ultimate winner in this political battle."

"He has capitalised on resentment what Donald Trump did in the US election recently. It is about triggering resentment of one section against the other," he said.
Washington, Jan 28 : US President Trumps executive order closing the nations borders to refugees was put into immediate effect as those who were in the air on the way to the country were stopped and detained at airports, a newspaper reported.

The detentions prompted legal challenges as lawyers representing two Iraqi refugees held at Kennedy Airport filed a writ of habeas corpus early Saturday in New York seeking to have their clients released, the New York Times reported.

At the same time, they filed a motion for class certification, in an effort to represent all refugees and immigrants who they said were being unlawfully detained at ports of entry, said the report.

Trump's order, which suspends entry of all refugees to the US for 120 days, created a legal limbo for individuals on the way to the United States and panic for families who were awaiting their arrival.

His order also stops the admission of refugees from Syria indefinitely, and it bars entry into the US for 90 days from seven predominantly Muslim countries linked to concerns about terrorism. Those countries are Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen.

According to the report, it was unclear how many refugees and immigrants were being held nationwide in the aftermath of the executive order.

The complaints were filed by a prominent group, including the American Civil Liberties Union, the International Refugee Assistance Project at the Urban Justice Centre, the National Immigration Law Centre, Yale Law School's Jerome N. Frank Legal Services Organisation and the firm Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton.

The lawyers, according to the New York Times, said that one of the Iraqis detained at Kennedy Airport, Hameed Khalid Darweesh, had worked on behalf of the US government in Iraq for 10 years.

The other, Haider Sameer Abdulkhaleq Alshawi, was coming to the US to join his wife, who had worked for a US contractor, and young son, the lawyers said.

They said both men were detained at the airport Friday night after arriving on separate flights.

The attorneys said they were not allowed to meet their clients, and there were tense moments as they tried to reach them.

The executive order, which Trump said was part of an extreme vetting plan to keep out "radical Islamic terrorists," also established a religious test for refugees from Muslim nations: He ordered that Christians and others from minority religions be granted priority over Muslims.

The US admitted a record number of 38,901 Muslim refugees in 2016, according to a study conducted by non-partisan Pew Research Center based in Washington. But nearly the same number of Christians, 37,521 were also admitted, it said, At the same time, many Christian groups that resettle refugees in the US decried the persecution of their brethren overseas, but said the country should not give favour to fellow Christians or bar Muslims, CNN reported.

"We would resist that strongly," said Scott Arbeiter, president of World Relief, the humanitarian arm of the National Association of Evangelicals and one of nine agencies that partner with the federal government to resettle refugees.

"Some of the most vulnerable people in the world right now are Muslims. If we say no Muslim should be let in, we are denying the humanity and dignity of people made in the image of God."
Tehran, Jan 28 : Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday it was no time to build walls between nations and criticised steps towards cancelling world trade agreements, without naming new US President Donald Trump.

His remarks came after Trump ordered the construction of a wall along the US-Mexico border and imposed tough new controls on travellers from seven Muslim countries, including Iran.

"They have forgotten that the Berlin Wall collapsed many years ago. Even if there are walls between nations, they must be removed," Rouhani said at a tourism convention in Tehran.

Rouhani did not comment directly on the visa ban, but said Iran had "opened its doors" to foreign tourists since the signing of a nuclear agreement with world powers in 2015.

With more than a million Iranians living in the US, many families are deeply concerned about the implications of Trump's visa ban, which also affects citizens from Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

"To annul world trade accords does not help their economy and does not serve the development and blooming of the world economy," Rouhani said at the conference. "This is the day for the world to get closer through trade."

Earlier, Taraneh Alidoosti, one of Iran's most popular actresses said that she would boycott February's Academy Awards in protest at the visa ban.

"Trump's visa ban for Iranians is racist. Whether this will include a cultural event or not, I won't attend the #AcademyAwards 2017," tweeted Alidoosti, who stars in the Oscar-nominated movie "The Salesman".

No visas will be issued for migrants, refugees or visitors from the seven countries for at least 90 days, a restriction which can be extended if the countries in question do not provide extensive information on individuals seeking to enter the United States.

Trump also suspended the US refugee programme for 120 days, and specifically barred Syrian refugees until further notice.
Panaji, Jan 28 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday he is being hounded by a powerful lobby affected by his government's November 8 demonetisation decision.

Modi warned that tough steps to transform the lives of the poor in India will continue.

"All over the country, I have started a campaign against corruption. A common man is not involved in corruption. They are big, powerful people. I am being persecuted because they are in trouble because of me. I am taking out what they have accumulated over 70 years," Modi told a rally in Panaji.

"This government is for the poor. To make India without poverty, steps are being taken to transform the lives of the poor. Therefore, our steps will be tough; but these will be for the country's betterment; it will not be for political gain," the Prime Minister said.

Modi criticised the Congress government in Karnataka for not acting against a minister for alleged seizure from his residence Rs 150 crore in new currency notes, unaccounted money and gold.

"In your neighbourhood, in Karnataka, from a Congress minister's home, more than Rs 150 crore in new notes, black money, gold were seized. Karnataka government is not even bothered. That minister has not even resigned. No notice has been issued to that minister. Do you want to get such corruption in Goa?" Modi said.
Thiruvananthapuram, January 28 : Kerala governor P Sathasivam, who is also the chancellor of kerala university, has asked the varsity vice chancellor to submit a report on the ongoing student agitation and consequent impasse at the kerala law academy law college.

Opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala had earlier sought the governors intervention in the issue in the wake of the continuing standoff between the students and the college management.

The governor on Saturday reportedly handed over Ramesh Chennithalas petition seeking a resolution of the impasse at the law academy to chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

Meanwhile, the kerala university syndicate, based on the findings of a committee looking into the grievances raised by the agitating students, on Saturday passed a resolution curtailing the powers of the beleaguered principal Lakshmi Nair.

The resolution puts a five-year ban on Lakshmi Nair from being involved in such matters of the college as the conduct of examinations and awarding of internal marks to the students.

The varsity syndicate has recommended the government to initiate further action, if needed, against the principal.

Even though the main demand of the agitating students is the resignation of Lakshmi Nair as principal, the varsity syndicate has no authority to direct the principals ouster.

CPI and Congress members in the syndicate reportedly wanted stringent measures against the private law college, including the cancellation of its affiliation and takeover by the government.

However, CPI(M) members of the syndicate reportedly opposed such stringent proposals.

Significantly, the CPI(M)-led LDF government has thus far shown a disinclination to intervene in the issue, saying that it was an issue between the students and the management.

The students of law academy has been on the warpath against the college management for over two weeks, accusing the college principal of high handedness, discriminating students on the basis of caste, forcing students to serve at restaurants owned by her, discrimination in awarding of internal marks etc.
Montana State Hospital, the states publicly run psychiatric facility, was set to lose its federal agreement in February because of whats called an immediate jeopardy, a situation where the hospitals noncompliance with federal regulations was considered serious enough to risk death or serious injury to a resident.

After a legal notice was published in The Montana Standard on Thursday announcing the termination of the agreement between the Warm Springs hospital and the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid set for Feb. 8, the agency sent the paper a notice of retraction, saying that the situation that put residents at significant risk had been abated.

The hospital is in the middle of a federal survey now, said Department of Public Health and Human Services public information officer Jon Ebelt, so the information that can be made public is limited. Those with knowledge of the hospital said surveyors were on-site this week.

The immediate jeopardy came after surveyors visited the hospital Jan. 13. By Jan. 25 the facility had made changes to correct deficiencies and the agreement with CMS was reinstated.

Ebelt said Friday deficiencies found by surveyors were related to staffing shortages as well as the hospital's physical environment.

Surveyors found a shortage of nurses and direct care staff.

"The entire state of Montana is experiencing workforce shortages and the nation as a whole is experiencing a nursing shortage. Montana is no exception," Ebelt said.

Zoe Barnard, the administrator of the Addictive and Mental Disorders Division, told a legislative appropriations committee at a Jan. 10 meeting that the division was suffering from workforce shortages across all jobs.

We have a problem with work force that goes all the way down to the direct-care staff level, she said of the division.

The hospital has hired temporary staff and approved overtime compensation for existing staff until a long-term solution is found. Ebelt did not have information Friday about how many employees work at the hospital, how many are nurses and how many positions were empty.

Surveyors also found problems with the facility's building, including sink faucets, mirrors, doors and door handles that the survey states are not designed for the unique safety needs of the patient population.

The hospital is currently working to correct all of the deficiencies that were found, Ebelt said.

A spokesman for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid said last year said that no facilities in Region 8, which includes Montana, North and South Dakota, Wyoming, Utah and Colorado, have had their agreements terminated in the last three years.

Montana State Hospital has operated in some form since the 1870s as a place for the mentally ill. It is run by the Addictive and Mental Services Division of the Department of Public Health and Human Services.

Over the last several years the hospital has struggled with a growing patient population. At one point in 2015 the facility, which was licensed for 216 beds at the time, had 253 patients. A forensic unit opened in Galen last year can hold up to 54 patients, though the facility still runs near capacity since it cannot refuse patients sent there by the courts. Average daily census in 2016 was 245.

The state hospital is a 100 percent state-funded facility that receives reimbursement for patients who qualify for Medicare and Medicaid. To receive these reimbursements the hospital must comply with federal rules and regulations that govern how the hospital treats its patients.

In fiscal year 2016, the hospitals budget was about $40 million. The same fiscal year it was reimbursed about $5.8 million by Medicare and $541,000 from Medicaid, according to a spokesman for the department. That means federal dollars reimburse about 15 percent of the hospitals budget. In fiscal year 2017, the hospital's budget was $44.2 million.

Patients get to the state hospital either through a civil or forensic, or criminal, commitment. Civil patients can come through detentions ordered by courts, as most do, or voluntarily. In fiscal year 2013, 563 of the 604 admissions were civil.

Lee Newspapers has requested but not yet received the survey documents about the events that led to the January announcement, but a review of hundreds of pages of past inspections by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid shows inspectors have found the hospital out of compliance before.

A finding of immediate jeopardy is not something new for the state hospital  it happened after a 2010 site inspection.

Surveyors visited the hospital between Aug. 30-Sept. 2, 2010. Documents detail numerous ways the hospital was not in compliance with federal rules  including failing to justify the use of restraints for several patients and not notifying the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid about a patient that died after falling while in restraints.

The immediate jeopardy was removed by Sept. 9, 2010, after surveyors were able to confirm that corrective actions were taken. Five of the patients who inspectors found to have received improper treatment were no longer at the hospital, one because the patient had died. The hospital created better assessment plans, improved the way it treated two other patients, developed risk assessment and fall prevention protocols and said it would better monitor injuries following falls.
Kolkata, Jan 28 : Former Union Finance Minister P. Chidambaram on Saturday said the cash crunch in the wake of demonetisation is still continuing in many places in the country even though it has eased to a extent in the metros.

"There are 5,199 automated teller machines in all the northeastern states put together. Out of which 3,645 are in Assam... half of them have no money. I was in Tirumala (Andhra Pradesh) and every bank has a branch at Tirumala. There is no money. Even today, 40 per cent of ATMs have not been stacked with currency," he said.

"The cash crunch has eased for those in metropolitan cities and for those in Uttar Pradesh. Cash crunch has not eased in Nagaland, Odisha, remote areas of Bihar...," the senior Congress leader said at Tata Steel Kolkata Literary Meet here.

As for money-laundering through Jan Dhan accounts, he said: "Twenty-five per cent accounts and earlier financial inclusion accounts are still zero-balance accounts. So, there is no money-laundering in these accounts. In the remaining accounts, the average money being laundered is Rs 27,000. In small number of cases, huge amounts were passed around."

The evidence does not point to wholesale use of Jan Dhan accounts for money laundering, Chidambaram added.
Shillong/Itanagar, Jan 28 : Meghalaya Chief Minister Mukul Sangma on Saturday said Home Minister Horju Donkupar Roy Lyngdoh will "not resign" in wake of opposition demand over the alleged rape of a minor girl at his son's guesthouse here.

"There are law provisions on when I can ask any of my colleagues to resign. As of now, the Home Minister will not resign," he told journalists here.

"Have faith in investigation and judiciary. Our administration of justice is vibrant, insulated from all manipulations. That much I can assure you. As far as our state is concerned, no one can tamper with the process of law," Sangma said.

Sangma was reacting to the demands from several quarters, including the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), for the minister's resignation.

Earlier, Lyngdoh told IANS he will not resign.

"I have not done any wrong. I do not run the guesthouse, which is run by its management. I have given police a free hand to investigate. If need bem police can question me. Therefore, I will not resign," the minister said.

Four people had allegedly raped the 14-year-old girl at Marvelene's Inn, the guesthouse run by Lyngdoh's son Nathaniel Osbert Rymmai.

Meghalaya Police has since arrested 16 people, including Independent legislator Julius Kitbok Dorphang, in connection with the sexual abuse of the girl at various guesthouses and a government-owned resort.

BJP Secretary in-charge of Meghalaya Nalin Kohli questioned the ruling Congress-led government for turning a deaf ear to the resignation demand.

"With what face is the Congress politicising former Governor V. Shanmuganathan's behaviour. They should first answer why is the Home Minster still in office and what action is being taken against him. A 14-year-old girl was repeatedly raped in a guesthouse owned by him and various complaints already exist," Kohli told IANS.

Leader of Opposition Donkupar Roy said the Chief Minister should relieve Lyngdoh of his portfolio to ensure free and fair probe.

Civil society groups -- Thma U Rangli (TUR) and Civil Society Women's Organisation -- too reiterated their demand for the minister's resignation.

"He (Lyngdoh) should immediately quit. He cannot be so stubborn in such a sensitive case. He cannot say he is not interfering and giving a free hand to police to investigate when he is still the Home Minister," TUR leader Angela Rangad said.
Kolkata, Jan 28 : A literary session being addressed by JNU student activist Kanhaiya Kumar had to be cut short at the Tata Steel Kolkata Literary Meet (KLM) here on Saturday after ultra-Left activists raised slogans against him and the sponsors.

Kumar, who has penned a book 'Bihar to Tihar', was addressing a session of the KLM at Rabindra Sarobar Stadium here, about five km from the main venue Victoria Memorial.

About half an hour into the session, as Kumar was answering queries from the moderator, Mudar Patherya, some young activists holding aloft posters decrying the meet stood up and demanded the student leader reply to their posers.

Kumar tried to pacify them, saying he would reply to all the issues raised by them during the question-answer part of the session.

However, the activists - under the platform of Bastar Solidarity Network India - raised slogans against the former Jawaharlal Nehru University's Students' Union president for attending a literary meet organised by a corporate and "accepting corporate hospitality".

Slogans like "Kashmir Maange Azaadi" and "Maqbool Maange Azaadi" were also heard, as the protesters held aloft the placards blocking the view of the audience..

After some time, Kumar managed to pacify them saying "This is a new form of protest. I shall use it in my JNU also."

There was more disturbance about 20 minutes later as the protesters raised their voice demanding an explanation from Kumar as to why he was there.

The policemen guarding the stage and the organisers threw a protective ring around Kumar, who continued to plead with the radical leftists to allow the session to continue.

But some of the protesters mounted the dais and tried to put forth their point of view to Kumar, who asked one of them whether he was a Communist.

"Yes," the young activist answered.

"Which party?" Kumar asked.

"I don't have any party," the activist said.

"Then you are not a Communist. Go and learn Marx and Lenin properly," Kumar said.

The organisers and some of Kumar's associates repeatedly requested the activists to sit down, but the latter were in no mood to listen.

"Kumar is behaving like a bourgeois. He talks a lot about the plight of the adivasis (tribals), but sides with those who oppress tribals. We have come here to protest against the meet and Kumar gracing it," said a female protester. "Some of the protesters are students, and some others activists. We do not belong to any particular party".

There was more chaos as some senior members of the audience sharply criticised the protesters.

But as the commotion and slogan shouting continued, he was forced to cut short the programme.

"I apologise to the audience . I would have loved to answer their queries, but these friends will not allow me to speak.

"I did not expect this to happen in Kolkata," he said as the organisers and the police took Kumar away by throwing a cordon around him.
Tokyo, Jan 28 : Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and US President Donald Trump on Saturday agreed to hold their first summit meeting in Washington on February 10, said Abe here after telephone talks with Trump.

The two leaders made the agreement during their 42-minute long telephone conversation starting from 11:05 p.m. (1405 GMT) on Saturday, the first such talks since Trump sworn in as 45th US president last week, Xinhua news agency said.

Both sides also affirmed the importance of Japan-US alliance and exchanged views in economic and security fields, Abe told reporters here after the call.

As for the two leads summit talks next month, Abe said he hoped to significantly and frankly exchange views with Trump in the fields including bilateral economic and security ties.

Abe also said he hope Japan will play its due role as US alliance.
New Delhi, Jan 28 : The Delhi Police late on Saturday claimed to have solved the case of nearly four-month-old infant abandoned in the national capital within 24 hours and arrested her mother and stepfather.

Police said accused Irshad Ali, 33, of Farrukhabad in Uttar Pradesh and his wife Mobina Khatoon, 18, were staying in a rented accommodation in Sangam Vihar area.

Mobina gave birth to the girl, named Nagma, in September 2016. "She married Ali after her first husband Raju deserted her and went to Nepal. Ali works as a labourer and has four children from an earlier marraige, including two daughters," Deputy Commissioner of Police Romil Banniya said.

Ali was irritated over fostering Nagma and had even threatened to kill her. He also pressurised Mobina to abandon her, Banniya said.

The couple abandoned her in the forest area of south Delhi on Friday night, where she was found by a priest of nearby temple.

The infant has since been admitted to All India Institute of Medical Science childcare centre. A police officer said doctors at AIIMS have declared the infant "medically fit".

The priest, Sandeep Shastri, told IANS he heard the baby's cries around 8 a.m. near the temple in Tughlakabad village when he had gone to answer the nature's call.

"I heard the child crying and ran for help. Fortunately, dogs roaming around the temple did not attack her," Shastri said.

A police team along with the child's photograph inquired in surrounding areas and zeroed in on her parents, also taking the help of social and electronic media," the officer said.

Abandoned babies are a perpetual problem in India where, according to a report by Justice Verma that was tasked to look into the amendments to present criminal law in 2013 in the wake of increasing number of crime against women in the country.

The report said that some 60,000 babies are abandoned every year in India due to various reasons, including poverty. A majority of the abandoned babies are girls.
Washington, Jan 29 : US President Donald Trumps executive order to close Americas borders to refugees and immigrants from some Muslim-majority countries caused chaos on Saturday.

Those who had flown to the US were held at airports and elsewhere others were barred from boarding planes, The Guardian reported.

As confusion reigned, a spokeswoman for the Department of Homeland Security said people holding so-called green cards, making them legal permanent US residents, were included in the ban.

"It will bar green card holders," wrote Gillian Christensen, acting DHS spokeswoman, in an email.

The order, signed on Friday in Washington, temporarily banned refugees from around the world from entering the US, blocked Syrian refugees indefinitely and placed severe restrictions on immigration from seven predominantly Muslim countries -- Iraq, Syria, Iran, Yemen, Sudan, Libya and Somalia.

Members of religious minorities from those countries, however, will be granted immigration priority.

Political reaction to the order ranged across the partisan divide.

On Friday, Democratic Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer said: "Tears are running down the cheeks of the Statue of Liberty tonight as a grand tradition of America, welcoming immigrants, that has existed since America was founded, has been stomped upon."

Republican House speaker Paul Ryan countered: "Our number one responsibility is to protect the homeland. I support the refugee resettlement program, but... President Trump is right to make sure we are doing everything possible to know exactly who is entering our country."

As Trump spoke by phone to the leaders of Japan, France, Germany and Russia on Saturday, international reaction to the ban was largely negative.

British Prime Minister Theresa May, however, ducked a series of questions at a press conference with the Turkish prime minister, 24 hours after meeting Trump in Washington.

Asked several times what she thought of Trump's order, she finally replied: "The US is responsible for its policy on refugees."

The Iranian foreign ministry said in a statement the executive order was an "open affront against the Muslim world and the Iranian nation". Iran will "take appropriate consular, legal and political measures", it said.

In New York City, two Iraqi refugees who arrived on separate flights were detained at John F Kennedy airport.

One, Hameed Khalid Darweesh, had worked in Iraq for the US government for 10 years.

The other, Haider Sameer Abdulkhaleq Alshawi, was coming to the US to join his wife who had worked for a US contractor, according to a report in the New York Times.

An immigration organisation in New York City said it was dispatching an expert to the airport to try to establish how many people were being held in limbo as border agents began preventing Muslims in particular from entering the country.

Thanu Yakupitiyage, a spokeswoman for the New York Immigration Coalition (NYIC), told the Guardian: "This is absolutely dehumanising, I am livid, it's outrageous. We are sending someone to JFK airport to speak to customs and border control about this, people are in a state of shock."
Nesha Mason HEFG "We are delighted to once again show GA high school students about hospitality career opportunities," said Nesha Mason, HEFG Executive Director.

On February 3, 2107 The Hospitality Education Foundation of Georgia (HEFG) will host nearly 3,000 high school students and teachers from hospitality pathway programs across the state at the 13th Annual HEFG Hospitality Career Expo from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Georgia International Convention Center.

The HEFG Expo is an educational marketing show that provides students with an interactive view of the depth of careers available in the culinary and hospitality industry. Through industry-sponsored booths, students are exposed to every facet of the industry from production, to distribution, and marketing. Each year professionals from nearly 100 corporations such as Gas South, Zaxbys, Sysco and US Foods share their expertise through cooking demos, management scenarios, and one-to-one interaction.

Expo-opoly, a management competition, is the centerpiece of the Expo. Every student has the opportunity to earn educational rewards for demonstrated learning of business practices such as accounting, franchising and human resources. This type of hands-on education is invaluable in nurturing our future leaders. As the world's largest contract hospitality company, we have virtually unlimited career and growth opportunities for hospitality professionals. Not only is Expo a chance to give back to a great Foundation but it allows us to interact directly with our next generation of hospitality professionals and leaders! said Rodney L. Knauf, Vice President-Finance, Morrison Community Living, Bateman Community Living, TouchPoint Senior Living.

Additionally, vendors/exhibitors will have the opportunity to meet with top students from the Art Institute of Atlanta and Georgia State University in a recruitment session available only to Expo exhibitors. Every Expo attendee receives a t-shirt with exhibitor names with exhibitor names and logos. Teachers receive exhibitor contact information and a portion of the proceeds.

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The Hospitality Education Foundation of Georgia is a 501c3 dedicated to providing direct support for the education of hospitality and foodservice students, by facilitating industry experiences and connecting the classroom with industry professionals and resources. Shaping students' futures with real world experiences will develop the best members for our industry and the community. For more information, visit http://www.hefg.org.

Media Contact:

Nesha Mason, Phone: 678.887.8009
Behlman Electronics Inc., is known for providing extra-value COTS power products for mission-critical military and commercial shipboard, airborne, land and mobile programs, as well as for industrial power solutions. Their latest pair of power solutions make it possible for system designers to have both 800 W output available, and energy storage for 50 milliseconds when needed for critical MIL-STD-704 performance.

Behlman VPXtra 800A is a 3U, Open VPX, VITA 62 compatible high-power AC-DC power supply.

This power solution is a rugged, highly reliable, conduction cooled, switch-mode unit designed and built for essential high-end military, commercial and industrial applications. It accepts 115/200 VAC, 3-phase input IAW MIL-STD-704F, and provides 28 VDC output with a 3.3 VDC auxiliary, without a minimum load requirement. Protection from overvoltage, short circuits, over current and thermal overload is standard.

Behlman VPXtra HU700HV Hold-Up Card is a compatible 3U Open VPX VITA 62 unit.

This companion power solution works in conjunction with the Behlman VPXtra 800A, to hold-up 650 Watts of DC power for 50 milliseconds, to meet the input power transient specifications of MIL-STD-704 (A to F).

Spec sheets for the Behlman VPXtra 800A Power Supply and VPXtra HU700HV Hold-Up Card are instantly available at the following links:

VPXtra 800A Power Supply

http://www.behlman.com/resources/prod_pdf/prod_pdf_6691484860347.pdf

VPXtra HU700HV Hold-Up Card

http://www.behlman.com/resources/prod_pdf/prod_pdf_7541484860347.pdf

The Behlman VPXtra 800A Power Supply, and the Behlman VPXtra HU700HV Hold-Up Card, are designed and manufactured with Behlmans trademarked Xtra-Cooling, Xtra-Reliable Design, and Xtra-rugged Construction, to ensure long, trouble-free service, and precise VPXtra compatibility.

According to Behlman President, Ron Storm, Although the VPXtra 800A Power Supply, and its companion VPXtra HU700HV Hold-Up Card, are unique designs not born from our highly successful VPXtra Reconfiguration Program, they can be a new foundation on which to build another branch of that program. Therefore, I invite design engineers to contact Behlman to explore how the VPXtra 800A Power Supply might be reconfigured to meet their own special needs, without the high cost of custom development. With sixteen 3U and 6U VPXtra Power Products already in Behlmans COTS product line, reconfiguration to meet even newly emerging requirements is readily available.

Details for the full line of Behlman VPXtra Power Supplies is available at http://www.behlman.com/products/vpx-vme-power-supplies.

Behlman Electronics Inc., (http://www.behlman.com), a subsidiary of Orbit International Corp., manufactures and sells high-quality standard, modified-standard, custom and COTS power solutions, including AC power supplies, frequency converters, inverters, DC-DC, AC-DC, DC-AC, uninterruptible power supplies, the VPXtra line of VPX/VME Power Supplies, and the IQCM Intelligent Chassis Manager.

Orbit International Corp., based in Hauppauge, New York, is involved in the manufacture of customized electronic components and subsystems for military and nonmilitary government applications. Other subsidiaries and divisions include Orbit Instrument, Tulip Development Laboratory, and Integrated Combat Systems, all of which are members of the Orbit Electronics Group.

For more information, contact Behlman Electronics Inc., 80 Cabot Court, Hauppauge, New York 11788 USA; TEL: +1 631 435-0410; FAX: +1 631 951-4341; sales(at)behlman(dot)com; http://www.behlman.com.
Speaking at the ceremony, Dr Miranda Lou, Vice President (Administration and Business) of PolyU, said, "PolyU has dedicated its efforts in promoting innovation and entrepreneurship through collaborating with different like-minded partners, including incubators from Shanghai and Hong Kong and angel investors. 'Micro Funding Platform' has been established with diversified funding schemes for start-ups at various stages, with the aim to nurture young entrepreneurs with the 'Do Well Do Good' entrepreneurial spirit."

Under a stringent assessment process, 34 business propositions out of 183 applications from PolyU Micro Fund, HKSTP-PolyU Tech Incubation Fund and PolyU Tech Launchpad Fund were selected and received funding this year which include education and e-commerce platform, fashion design, mobile application, environmentally friendly products, etc. The respective start-ups will either receive PolyU entrepreneurship funding, admission to incubation programme offered by the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation, or receive dollar-for-dollar matching grant from PolyU against collaborating investors.

Among the awarded start-ups, some of them have showcased their products in the international arena. Ms Nicole Or, a graduate from Department of Applied Social Sciences, has developed the camera app named Spincle which was presented in TechCrunch Disrupt SF 2016 Startup Battlefield in San Francisco, USA. Spincle is a camera app for creating 360 video as well as generating 3D virtual reality visual. In addition, Loom Loop, a local fashion brand established by our School of Design graduate Ms Polly Ho, had also been showcased in New York Fashion Week and other overseas fashion shows. Loom Loop incorporated the eco-friendly Canton Gambiered silk in designing its chic and trendy fashion.

As of now, 129 start-up ventures have received the funding support from the mentioned schemes in which almost 400 young entrepreneurs were nurtured. These ventures have received over 60 local and overseas awards on innovation and entrepreneurship, and secured over HK$66 million further funding and incubation support.

At the ceremony, Dr Lou also announced the establishment of InnoHub in PolyU and PolyU Shenzhen Base next year. InnoHub is a co-creation space bringing corporate experts, entrepreneurs, investors together for innovative, cross-discipline and cross-sector collaborations. It aims to create synergy among all and develop new technology and start-ups to help solve the problem of each sector or society at large.

In celebrating PolyU 80th Anniversary, Institute for Entrepreneurship will organize a series of innovation and entrepreneurship programmes in February and March 2017, including Weekend PolyU, Maker Faire, PolyU Hackathon, Social Innovation Forum and Good Seed Awards Ceremony.
When a patients having a bad day and they come up to you, it makes you feel good. It makes you feel like you are a part of their life and that they trust you.

Anybody who might be considering the possibility of needing professional help in overcoming addiction, either for themselves or for a loved one going through that struggle, may find a new video released by Serenity Recovery to be helpful in making their decision. Serenity, a holistic treatment center for addiction located in Central Michigan, has produced this video as another installment in their Meet The Staff video series, which highlights many different staff members and the various roles that they fill at the recovery center. This newest video, which can be viewed on the Serenity Recovery YouTube channel, features JJ Williams, a member of the Security team at the treatment center, speaking about his daily responsibilities and the impact that he and the rest of the Security team have on the patients progress through treatment.

A typical day is basically making sure that the employees and clients are safe, Williams explains. We make sure no drugs are coming into the facility. Everything has to go through Security. Every individual and their belongings are inspected when they arrive at Serenity in order to keep contraband from entering the facility.

Our patients are there to get help, commented Serenity Recovery founder Per Wickstrom, but addiction can lead people to make poor decisions. Having a security team helps the facility to be a safer place.

Watching Recovery Happen

But, according to Williams, his job isnt just searching bags and patting people down. In his interview, he also spoke about the personal interactions he has with the patients at Serenity on a daily basis. When I can see somebody from start to finish, thats awesome, he says. When a patients having a bad day and they come up to you, it makes you feel good. It makes you feel like you are a part of their life and that they trust you.

Security Department Chief Meredith Knoll loves the fact that her job puts her into contact with Serenity patients from the beginning of their journey through the end. My favorite part of working here is seeing the clients come in from detox, she shares. You kind of see them blossom through the whole process and then they graduate. Its really cool to see them grow.

This trust in the Security professionals is actually a major step in the patients recovery. Addiction can cause a person to view authority figures, such as police, in a less-than-trusting light, often blaming legal troubles on the police. A more honest relationship with such figures demonstrates the patients ability to take responsibility for their own actions, a mark of tremendous progress in recovery.

To view the full video, visit the YouTube web site: https://www.youtube.com
I don't know how many young women come to this blog or how many are parents of teenage or young adult women, but here are some safety tips from Kelsey's Army:

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1. Trust your instincts - If something feels wrong then something probably is wrong.2. Know your surroundings - know who and what is around you.3. Always have a plan for where you would go and what you would do if a situation arises.4. Be willing to make a scene in order to be noticed.5. Let someone know where you are going and when you will be back.Remember the acronym TIPS:ake Chargenform others of your whereaboutsrepare for any situationurvival Mentality (role play situations so you will respond should they happen)For more information, go to Kelsey's Army
DECATUR  A rescue dog Debbie Fitch adopted from Missouri a couple months ago appeared to be a lost cause.

After pretty much growing up on the end of an eight-foot chain, Rosco was less than a year old and all over the place. He's a lot of dog, and some people think I should put him down, Fitch said. But I want to give him a chance.

A free obedience class offered by the Care Van pet program earlier this month gave the Decatur woman a chance to see a different side of Rosco's personality as Pro-Canine's Mike Reynolds quickly took the animal in hand at the start of class and got the big pup to lay quietly by his feet.

You want my dog? Reynolds joked with Fitch a few minutes later. Because I'd like to take this one.

Beth Hughes, the Care Van's founder, said the program used to offer five weeks of classes periodically but switched in the past year to half-day sessions because of the difficulty attendees had making all the classes.

I get questions every week about behavioral problems in dogs, Hughes said. If they were well-behaved, they'd get adopted and be in homes.

Reynolds told about a dozen people in attendance Jan. 7 that an unwillingness to correct children and dogs is why jails and shelters are so full.

The way he corrects Rosco is to ignore the dog when he misbehaves a little, yank on his pinch collar when he misbehaves a lot and slip him a treat when he does what Reynolds wants. Petting makes a your dog unfocused. I don't do that until I have a pretty solid dog, he said.

Reynolds added that the three major elements in dog training are timing, motivation and consistency.

First, a dog must be corrected within 1.3 seconds after the misbehavior or the animal will not connect the two. Second, a leash and a collar are musts for proper motivation.

I don't use choke collars, he said, and you cannot train a dog on a harness unless you are training him to pull.

Reynolds said it's important to feed dogs high-quality food and not too much because a hungry dog is easier to train. It's also better not to talk too much, because dogs interpret almost any kind of attention as praise.

Responding to a question from Misty Martin-Clark of Decatur, he said the way to stop a dog from barking while crated is attach a leash to its collar and wait out of sight. When the dog barks, pull on the lead, and after it stays quiet for a few minutes, go to the crate to praise.

You want the dog to react to you instead of you reacting to the dog, Reynolds said.
The March for Life, held in Washington, D.C., one week after the inauguration of a president sympathetic to the pro-life cause, attracted the largest crowd in recent memory, including hundreds of marchers from Central Illinois.

Two members of the Trump administration spoke at the rally, including Vice President Mike Pence, the first vice president to speak at the annual event, held every year in the nation's capital to mark the anniversary of the 1973 Supreme Court decision, Roe v. Wade, legalizing abortion.

Pence, a longtime supporter of the anti-abortion movement, told cheering supporters gathered on the National Mall life is winning again in America.

Along with you, we will not grow weary, we will not rest until we restore a culture of life in America for ourselves and our posterity," Pence said.

He told the crowd that President Donald Trump will announce next week a Supreme Court nominee in the anti-abortion jurisprudence of the late Antonin Scalia who will uphold the God-given liberties enshrined in our Constitution.

While Trump was not able to attend the rally, he expressed his support on Twitter.

The March for Life is so important, Trump said in a tweet on Friday. To all of you marching --- you have my full support.

The march, which began in front of the Washington Monument, ended about two miles away, at the steps of the U.S. Supreme Court.

Counselor to the president Kellyanne Conway joined Pence in representing the Trump administration.

Steps away from here in the White House a president and vice president sit at their desks and make decisions for a nation, Conway said. As they sit there, they stand here with you. This is a time of incredible promise for the pro-life, pro-adoption movement. Our actions must reach those women who face unplanned pregnancies, they should know they are not alone. Theyre not judged. Theyre protected and cared for and celebrated. So to the March for Life 2017 allow me to make it very clear -- we hear you, we see you, we respect you, and we look forward to working with you.

Megan Rhoades, 37, a staff member of New Life Pregnancy Center in Decatur, said it was exciting to see the vice president at the rally.

He said that the Trump administration stopped the (U.S.) funding of international abortions, Rhoades said. He talked a lot about his faith. He said he attended March for Life for the past 16 years.

Joining the pro-life movement is a step in a gut-wrenching personal journey for Rhoades.

I had an abortion in February 2005, Rhoades said. I was against abortion before I had the abortion.

I was probably very judgmental of women that had them. Then I found myself in the situation on an unplanned pregnancy. I was shocked to find how easy it was to go from being pro-life to walking into a Planned Parenthood clinic. I think it was from fear and panic and I felt trapped. I felt it was my only answer. It wasn't, but that was how I felt at the time.

Rhoades was later converted to Christianity, which gave her a new perspective.

I came to terms with what I'd done and understood how awful that was, Rhoades said during a phone interview from her Washington hotel room, shortly after completing the march.

She visited New Life Pregnancy Center in 2007, signed on as a volunteer and was later hired as a staff member. She enrolled in a program for restoration to spiritual and emotional health. She learned about fetal development, how a baby grows during different stages.

That was a wake-up call for me that it wasn't a clump of cells or a blob of tissue, Rhoades said. I knew I had to use what happened to me to help other women.

Rhoades, who has spoken at churches and women's groups on her experiences, was attending her first public pro-life event Friday.

Hearing Pence speak was really cool, Rhoades said, adding that she especially enjoyed the speech of Mia Love, the first black Republican female U.S. representative. She was amazing. She told how her parents came to America from Haiti and left her siblings at home. When they got here they got pregnant with her. It would have been easy for them to have an abortion, but they chose life.

The Rev. Steve Arisman led a youth group to Washington, among about 200 people who rode in four buses from the Springfield Catholic Diocese, including Bishop Thomas John Paprocki.

They took part in a Mass on Thursday night, with about 15,000 worshipers, including four cardinals and about 50 bishops.

It's such a joy to be here, said Arisman, pastor of parishes in Mount Zion and Bethany. There is so much energy to be here with the youth and share our faith. It's just inspiring.

Arisman, 35, who was attending his fifth March for Life, said there was more excitement this year for several reasons, including the new administration.

There is a different feeling in our nation right now, Arisman said, adding that it was amazing to hear the crowd respond with joy to everything Pence was saying. We all hope that the new administration sees life in a different light than the previous administration. We are here to unite behind life, from conception to natural death.

"We respond with joy, not with anger or riots. Our joy is in Jesus Christ.

The priest said the reactionary march last week inspired the pro-life marchers to respond with more joy and love.

People in D.C. were commenting that this is a more joyful and peaceful group than last week's march, he said. It was great seeing the joy in the young people standing for life. It gives us hope seeing all the Christians standing for life in a great way.

Lucas Harmon, a freshman at Mount Zion High School, attended the march as part of the youth group, along with his grandparents and two cousins. He said he went to the march because he believes in the pro-life movement, to make abortion illegal.

He said he would like to see abortion prohibited because it is like killing innocent babies who can't make the choice for themselves.

Lucas said the event was fun for him, especially just seeing everyone in my church and in my family walking with me.

Jade Cothern, 35, a New Life Pregnancy Center volunteer, took two days off from her regular job to attend the march with Rhoades.

It is exciting, Cothern said. I have never been to Washington, D.C., so it's kind of surreal, to see the White House and all the other places.

She said the biggest highlight for her was sensing the overwhelming presence of God.

There are so many people staying together choosing life, Cothern said. It was very empowering and uplifting that these brothers and sisters are believing the same things that I believe.

She was inspired by an African-American minister who delivered the benediction.

He talked about black lives, how most aborted babies are African-American babies. He was encouraging the men to stand up and be fathers and for the women not to choose abortion, to choose life.

Cothern said she was 15 years old when she experienced an unplanned pregnancy.

I ended up keeping my son. He's almost 19 now, she said. I chose life, and then God put it on my heart to go to the pregnancy center to help stand beside women and help them to decide to choose life.
This will make me sound a little mercenary, confesses Sara Zarr, when asked where she got the idea for her sixth novel, Gem & Dixie (HarperCollins/Balzer + Bray, Apr.). Some years back, she was in a coffee shop in her adopted hometown of Salt Lake City, talking with a friend about the economic realities of writing young adult fiction: even if your publisher is eager for your next novel, even if all five of the novels youve published so far have been well received, even if your current editor believes you are one of the top writers in your field, you may not make a comfortable living or feel like youve yet succeeded at what you set out to do.

I really wanted to step up my career, and I thought to do that I would have to come up with something really high-concept, Zarr recalls. She had an idea inspired by the 1998 film A Simple Plan, about three men, two of them brothers, who stumble across a plane that crashed in a snowy nature preserve with a cargo onboard of $4 million.

What about a story for teens about sisters who find a big bag of money? Zarr remembers asking aloud. She had a sister. They had grown up poor in San Francisco. She knew firsthand about the indelible mark left by poverty, and the irrational hopes it can inspire about winning the lottery, or inheriting a fortune from an unknown relative. We all know it isnt true, but its so easy to slip into the idea that if I just had a certain amount of money, everything would be okay.

High-concept, however, is not what Zarr does. Her first novel, Story of a Girl (Little, Brown, 2007), was a finalist for the National Book Award; it won praise for its fully realized portrait of a teen struggling to escape the reputation she earned by committing a single indiscretion with an older teenage boy. Each of her books since has earned multiple starred reviews, with critics praising her knack for exposing human weakness, and pointing out her ability to create authentic characters and convey emotion so honestly.

Sara has such skill in capturing every nuance of a teens voice, relationships, anxiety, and desires, treating them all with sensitivity, sophistication, and respect, says her new editor Jordan Brown, executive editor at Balzer + Bray. This sort of attention to rendering the real experiences of teens in ways they can identify with, draw understanding or strength fromthats everything youre looking for as an editor of YA lit.

Zarr knew high-concept would challenge her. She was struggling with the plot at a time when she herself was attending a support group for adult children of alcoholics, a process that made her look squarely at the ripple effects of addiction. Her own father left the family when Zarr was 10.

One of the first exercises they have you do is to fill out a family tree and record everything you know about your relatives, and what I realized is there had been a lot of abandonment by fathers, Zarr says. It was always women taking care of things.

Zarrs characters, Gem and Dixie, do not even have a woman to take care of them; they have to take care of themselves. Both of the novels parents are substance abusers. Dad is an irresponsible charmer, but is largely absent. Mom uses the scant money she has to buy drugs for herself rather than food for her teenage daughters. Theyre the worst parents Ive ever written, Zarr admits. I just let them be abject failures and set out to see how that would affect the relationship between the sisters.

Gem, at 17 the older sister, steps into the role of parent, which starts to irritate Dixie, a beauty with easy confidence, by the time she reaches high school herself.

In real life Im the younger sister but I wanted to write it from the older sisters perspective, Zarr says. Gem carries the anxiety for both herself and Dixie, and Dixie carries the optimism because thats the way she survives.

When the girls father resurfaces after years away, its to secretly stash a backpack full of cash in their apartment, which Gem discovers while looking for something underneath her bed. Gem decides the money is her ticket to independence, but she refuses to leave Dixie behind.

Except for the bag of money, Zarr says its an extremely exaggerated version of her own childhood in San Francisco, where her older sister still lives, and still exhibits the parental behavior she had to take on when she and Sara were just children. My older sister is 50 and Im 46, but she still puts her hand out to keep me from crossing the street. I have to ask her, How do I manage to not get hit by a car when Im not visiting you? 

Zarr knew early on that she wanted to write, and enrolled at San Francisco State as an English major before switching to earn a degree in organizational communication, a field of study that would make her employable in office administration. I was only an English major because that was the class I got As in in high school, Zarr says. But I hated the close analysis of texts. That was not for me. She lived in California until she was 30, working various office jobs that allowed her to save her energy for writing. She and her husband moved to Salt Lake City for his job in 2001. Story of a Girl, her first novel, was published in 2007.

It was a splashy debut, and in the decade since its publication it has continued to sell well, fueled by its continual appearance on many high school reading lists. That is likely to continue now that a television movie based on the book, directed by Kyra Sedgwick and starring her husband, Kevin Bacon, is scheduled to debut on Lifetime later this year.

A Struggle Against Expectations

Zarr is grateful for having had success out of the gate but says she struggled to balance writing with the business aspects of it: maintaining a social media presence, touring, self-promotion, and, most of all, meeting expectations, especially her own.

I always worry about expectationswhat if this book isnt as good as the last?but I think I would have struggled just as hard even if my first book had done nothing. I would have found some way to make it hard, she says. Everything about Story of a Girl has been a positive. Its kept going. Teachers and librarians keep getting it into the hands of readers.

After what she felt was too much time between books, she feels like she has gotten herself back on track. The main thing for me is its all about momentum. Its just too easy when youre in the middle of a draft to go a few days without working on it, until it feels impossible to start again, Zarr says. Now she tricks herself into getting the work done by keeping the document open and reaching a certain word count each day. She also uses the writing almost as therapy. Its more like I come up with a story and use my interest in my own self-help to deepen and fill in and give dimension to whats happening in the book.

By the time she finished Gem & Dixie, the high-concept bag of money book she had first pitched to Little, Brown had turned into something far deeper and more devastating. Zarrs agent, Michael Bourret at Dystel & Goderich Literary Management, instead sold it to Brown at Balzer + Bray in a two-book deal. Brown, who edited Laura Rubys Printz Award-winning Bone Gap, was only too happy to take it on.

I have to admit that my initial excitement over simply getting to read the new novel from Sara Zarr was every bit a match for my professional excitement at the possibility of getting to work with someone whom I believe has compiled one of the most enduring bodies of work of all time for the YA audience, Brown says.

In April, Zarr will tour with fellow Balzer + Bray authors Becky Albertalli and Katie Cotugno. She does not mind at all not having star billing. The glamour of solo author events is greatly exaggerated, she says.

Zarrs sixth novel may not be the high-concept book she envisioned, but shes okay with that. There is at least one moment that will make in-the-know readers chuckle: watch for the reference to fellow YA writer A.S. King.

I really did intend to make it more of a romp, Zarr said. But I guess I just couldnt escape the writer that I am.
While many works of nonfiction, particularly those with beautiful illustrations from trade houses, are resonating with children these days, the bookseller jury is still out on young readers adaptations of bestselling adult books, such as The Boys in the Boat (Viking), Hidden Figures (HarperCollins), and Unbroken (Delacorte).

Im conflicted about them, says Kelsy April of Bank Square and Savoy. I like the option of having them. I always make it clear that its not going to be as violent or intense [as the original]. On the other hand, she sells a number of copies to schools.

At Elliott Baywhich has seen its biggest burst in childrens nonfiction sales from middle grade titles such as Winifred Conklings Radioactive! (Algonquin) and Caitlin Alifirenka and Martin Gandas I Will Always Write Back (Little, Brown)many of the people buying young readers editions are picking them up as ESL titles, notes buyer Holly Myers.

Quail Ridge, which has done particularly well with young readers titles, has also had a number of adult buyers for the book. Not that thats a problem for Carol Moyer: A well-written nonfiction book for children can introduce an adult to a topic.

At Parnassus, Stephanie Appell has gotten a lot of questions from customers about how young readers books are adapted and about whether or not the author is involved. She would like to see more transparency from the publishers about how the books are written.

And some readers would like to know more about how publishers select books and why. Last fall when Delacorte published a YA edition of Dan Browns The Da Vinci Code, it ran into some blowback on Twitter; one young woman wrote, Im an adult now, but I read the original when I was 12 so inner-teen-me is raging. The decision to create a more kid-friendly version appropriate for younger teens was something that the author, whose parents were teachers, had long wanted to do. He was especially interested in getting young readers interested in digging into history.

As for sales, they can be mixed as well. [Young readers editions] did well in 2015, but there wasnt really a big one for us last year, says Oblongs Suzanna Hermans. On the other hand 2017 could be better. Now that the movie is in theaters, she is starting to see Hidden Figures move.
There never has been a president whose election has caused as much widespread alarm among so many people in all segments of the publishing industry as Donald Trump.

Many in the industry would acknowledge having something of a liberal bent, but other Republican presidents who have won the White House, while greeted with a certain amount of wariness by the publishing community, were given a grace period so that industry members could see what policy initiatives they would champion. Trump has been given no such leeway, and for good reason. From his speeches during the campaign to his appointments, to his admitted disinterest in reading books, Trump has challenged many of the core principles of publishing.

From almost the start of his run for the presidency, Trump has shown little respect for the First Amendment and free speech issues. He has suggested that people who burn the American flag should go to jail and promised to open up libel laws to make it easier to sue news organizations over stories that public figures (such as himself) dont like.

No principle is more important to book publishing than freedom of speech. To help ensure that authors and publishers will remain unafraid to publish works that they believe in, no matter where the subject matter falls on the political spectrum, will require a strong commitment by individuals, companies, and organizations to protecting free speech.

That is why PW is following the lead of Penguin Random House and Hachette Book Group in offering to pay half its employees membership fees to PEN America. In announcing HBGs PEN effort, CEO Michael Pietsch observed that we are now in a climate where free speech is especially important, and in that spirit, PW urges other publishers to back the First Amendment through whatever efforts they deem to be the most effective.

Industry members have certainly shown a willingness to act to protect causes in which they believe. Hundreds, if not thousands, of people from publishing expressed their unhappiness with large parts of Trumps agenda by participating in womens marches on January 21. In fact, a number of women helped organize groups to march in both Washington, D.C., and New York City. As has been pointed out by many political commentators, if the momentum of those marches is to continue, there needs to be a way to turn that energy into an ongoing movement. PW is prepared to serve as a vehicle to help organize industry efforts regarding the protection of the First Amendment and other key publishing issues, such as the protection of intellectual property and adequate funding for education and cultural organizations.

Indeed, almost as concerning as Trumps disregard for the First Amendment is the report in The Hill that plans are being drawn to eliminate the National Endowment for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Humanities. Even with very modest budgets by Washington standards (roughly $147 million annually for each agency), the two provide crucial financial support to authors, small presses, and other organizations involved with the arts. PW is eager to lend its voice to all parties looking to rally support to keep these important agencies alive.

In his recent talk at Digital Book World, Macmillan CEO John Sargent observed that President Obama was on our side from a cultural standpoint, but that many of his business policies were not. For example, Sargent suggested that the Obama administration seemed to favor tech companies over traditional publishers on a number of issues. He may be right, but publishers and booksellers loved it when Obama and his family visited bookstores, and Obama clearly championed our industry as a vital American institution. At a time when Trump and his highest aides seem all too willing to embrace alternative facts and to undermine Americans confidence in our most fundamental institutions, book publishings missionto provide Americans with credible, vital information, and to tell the stories that reflect the diversity that is the strength of our nationis invaluable. At PW, we intend to stand up for that mission. We hope you will too.
Readers Respond

Last week, we published an editorial by former New York State assemblyman Nelson A. Denis under the headline Dear Publishers: Latinos Read Books, Too. In it, Denis wrote that in libraries and bookstores and classrooms, on television and film, the Latino stereotypes aboundbut Latino voices are absent. Many of our readers agreed, arguing that U.S. publishers favor books that often present stereotypes of Latinos rather than works featuring original Latino voices. Here are a couple highlights from Web commenters.

Latinos are avid readers and and their purchasing power is a force to be reckoned with. It is downright insulting that Latino writers dont get the same investment and time. I am personally tired of seeing the same old Latino writers that Americans romanticize. I agree, some are truly great writers, but our choices as Latinos are limited, not by the lack of talent, but by the lack of attention to a vivid community that enjoys a good book, just like enyone else. Wil Santiago Viera

U.S. Latino literature is narrowly constrainedghetto wars, immigrant stories and chica lit. The vast experience of nearly 60 million U.S. residents is virtually untouched. There will be a Walter Mosley or a Terry McMillan moment, and then the publishers will see the enormity of this vibrant, untapped market. Alex Rodriguez

From the Newsletters

Tip Sheet

The most-anticipated books of spring 2017.

Childrens Bookshelf

When they got the call: we talk with the 2017 Newbery and Caldecott winners, Kelly Barnhill and Javaka Steptoe.

Religion BookLine

Faith-focused self-publisher Tate Publishing closes down.

Global Rights Report

Two backlist titles find new lives abroad.

BookLife Report

Meet T.J. Slee, whose novel The Vanirim won the inaugural BookLife Prize in Fiction.

Sign up for these and other great, free newsletters at publishersweekly.com/newsletters

The most-read review on publishersweekly.com last week was Sticks Angelica, Folk Hero by Michael DeForge (Drawn & Quarterly).

Blogs

Shelftalker

Bookseller Kenny Brechner on the growth of active nonfiction for young readers.

Podcasts

Week Ahead

PW senior writer Andrew Albanese talks about the growing backlash against S&S for signing Milo Yiannopoulos, as well as how President Donald Trump loomed large over the recently concluded ALA Midwinter Meeting.

More to Come

The More to Come crew discusses the implications of the discontinuation of the New York Times graphic novel bestseller list.

PW Radio

Alan Burdick discusses his new book, Why Time Flies: A Mostly Scientific Investigation (Simon & Schuster). Then PW childrens reviews editor John Sellers recaps the Newbery and Caldecott Awards.
MCD/FSG Nabs Debut Thriller by Yaddo Fellow

Daphne Durham of MCD/FSG secured world rights to Cipher, a debut novel by Katrina Carrasco, a Yaddo fellow, in a two-book deal brokered by Stacia Decker of Dunlow, Carlson, & Lerner. According to Decker, the novel centers on a detective named Alma who infiltrates a Washington Territory opium smuggling ring while disguised as a man. Once shes insinuated herself, Alma must create an ever-more-elaborate series of alibis while sending coded dispatches to the Pinkertons, as well as managing her physical attraction to Delphine, the head of the smuggling ring, and Wheeler, the local boss, says Decker. The book is set to be published in summer 2018 .

Bestler Takes Second Novel by Poeppel

In a two-book deal, Linda Chester of the Linda Chester Literary Agency sold world rights to Limelight, the second novel by Amy Poeppel, to Emily Bestlers eponymous imprint at Atria Books. According to Chester, the novel bears comparison to Cynthia DAprix Sweeneys The Nest and Liane Moriartys emotionally resonant page-turners, telling a gloriously entertaining story about city life, midlife, and the absurdities of fame. Poeppels previous book, Small Admissions, chronicled the loves and friendships of a young admissions counselor at an elite private school in New York. Limelight is expected to be published in summer 2018.

Reston Brings Vietnam War Memorial History to Arcade

Carl Barksdale of Arcade purchased world rights to historian James Reston Jr.s A Rift in the Earth: Maya Lin, Frederick Hart, and the Art War Over Vietnam Memory, in a deal brokered by Markus Hoffman of Regal Hoffman & Associates. According to Hoffman, the book will tell the remarkable story of the competition for the official Vietnam War Memorialthe biggest competition for a public work of art in American historyand the bitter controversy that ensued over the winning design by Maya Lin, then a young Asian-American architecture student at Yale. Reston Jr. has previously written books on Richard Nixon (The Conviction of Richard Nixon) and Galileo (Galileo: A Life). Arcade is set to publish A Rift in the Earth as a lead title this fall.

Orbit Buys Two Books in Victorian Paranormal Series

In a six-figure deal, Kristin Nelson of Nelson Literary Agency sold North American rights to two new books in Gail Carrigers Custard Protocol series to Lindsey Hall of Orbit. The series, which is set in the Victorian era, centers on a young woman named Prudence, who, with a cadre of friends, rides a dirigible around various parts of the British Empire, exploring its sordid and supernatural elements (the books feature werewolves and vampires). The first two books in the series, which is a spin-off of the authors Parasol Protectorate series, are Prudence and Imprudence. Orbit plans to publish the first book in this deal, the seriess third, sometime in 2018.

Woods Brings Two Books to Mira

Margaret Marbury of Mira Books acquired world rights (except Japanese) to two books by Sherryl Woods in a six-figure deal negotiated by Denise Marcil of the Denise Marcil Literary Agency. One book, Lilac Lane, is a new installment in the authors Chesapeake Shores series, which, according to the publisher, is the basis for Hallmark Channels most successful TV series. The other, Small Town Love Story: Colonial Beach, VA, is a nonfiction companion title to the Chesapeake Shores series that will touch on the real-life inspiration behind many of [Woodss] books. The publisher adds that the Chesapeake Shores novels explore the themes of love and forgiveness and capture the struggles of the OBriens, a large Irish-American family trying to make peace with their complicated past in a small, picturesque bayside community. Both books are slated to be published in October 2017.

Force Brings Six Series Titles to Kensington

Kensington Publishing CEO Steve Zacharius bought mass market rights to the first six books in romance author Marie Forces Gansett Island series. All six books were previously self-published by the author in digital format. According to Kensington, the series is set on a fictional version of Block Island, in Rhode Island, and tells of the lives and loves of the McCarthy family and their friends. The publisher adds that Forces books have sold more than 5.5 million units worldwide. The mass market paperbacks are set to begin to be released in summer 2018.
ROCK ISLAND  Asrielle Allen was announced the top Thoms Family Above & Beyond Scholarship winner during a Jan. 24 presentation at Rock Island High School.

Ms. Allen will receive a $5,000 scholarship for her Girls Leading the Way project. Finalist Paul Bilori received a $1,000 scholarship while Elisabeth Hoeper and Kylie Wymer both received $500 scholarships.

I continue to be amazed by the efforts our Rock Island High School students put forth for the betterment of our community and themselves," said founder Stuart W. Thoms. "I am hopeful for our future as I see these student engage and grow.

The scholarships are administered through the Rock Island-Milan Education Foundation.

Ms. Allen started Girls Leading the Way, training a group of high school girls on team building and various aspects of leadership. Those girls then planned and presented the Girls Leading the Way Youth Leadership Conference in September 2016. In continuing leadership sessions at the high school, the girls studied styles of leadership, different personality types and Stephen Coveys The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. The girls will teach a breakout session for the Quad City Teen Leadership Academy in February.

Mr. Bilori developed a project to create leaders in the community by reaching those slipping through the cracks and providing them the push they need to achieve better grades, better life skills, and support. Ms. Hoeper's fundraiser for Project Linus, which provides and delivers blankets to children, generated $1,235. Ms. Wymer's project, The Recycled Library, will distribute a book to every K-6 student in the Rock Island-Milan School District. At the projects end, she will have distributed about 3,500 books and collected more than 5,000 books.

For more details, visit aboveandbeyondscholarship.com or rimef.org.
VIENNA, Ill.  A group of South Korean students and Vienna High School students are discovering they are more alike than different. They have cellphones, connect electronically and enjoy talking about social media, girlfriends and boyfriends, music and dancing.

"There's a lot more in common than different  more than I expected," VHS student Max Albritton said.

The group of 25 South Korean high school students, along with their teachers, administrators and chaperones, will spend 10 days in Southern Illinois.

The students attend Daedong Taxation High School, which is located in the northwestern portion of South Korea. The school trains students in the fields of tax accounting and finance, preparing them for careers as a CPA, CTA and professional managers such as CFO or CEO. Students are guaranteed jobs after graduation and have a choice to attend college before or a few years after taking a job.

Each South Korean student is paired with a member of the VHS student council, and they will attend classes with them.

Michael Moon, of New York City, a chaperone with the group, translated for students "Steve" Jung Seung Hoo, "Jake" Na Yong Hyun and "Brian" Song Yul-Wha, joking that they said all the girls were pretty and guys were handsome and strong.

"Kid's here are so awesome and nice," Moon translated.

Though the kids share plenty in common, there are a few differences. He explained that all the students in the taxation high school are really good at math, so they found math at Vienna really easy.

They were surprised at the number of Vienna students who had their own vehicles at age 16 and 17. Korean students must be at least 18 to get a driver's license. Boys also have mandatory service in the army or navy.

"That is the number one anxiety for boys," Jun Kim, assistant professor in the department of health education and recreation at SIU, said.

Yonhwa Jo noticed a difference in the size of houses. Huiju Jeon said that because South Korea is a small country, the cities are large. Almost all of the visiting students live in an apartment or very small house.

Moon explained that about 10 million people live in the city they are from. It is a very congested area. Vienna is quiet by comparison.

"In America, you drive a car to get where you are going. In Korea, we almost always walk and can get where we want to go," Jeon said.

American students noticed a few differences, too.

"We went to eat Mexican food, and they eat less than we do," Sydney Charles said.

"Their classes are more difficult and applied to life," Adrienne Bullock said.

Moon said the idea is to let the students experience American culture and a different educational system. In addition, American students are introduced to Korean culture.

"The constant exploring of cultures will be good for Vienna," Kim said.

The Korean students will camp in the cabins at Touch of Nature Center at SIU Saturday through Monday. In addition to the regular winter camping activities offered at the center, the students will participate in team building exercises and experience lectures by college professors.

When Kim heard about the opportunity to host high school students from South Korea, he approached several Southern Illinois schools that were not interested. One of his colleagues at SIU, Tina Colson, had children who went to Vienna High School. She put Kim in touch with Vienna Superintendent Joshua Stafford, and he was happy to host the visiting students. They are staying with families in the Vienna area.

Students arrived in New York City and spent a couple days sightseeing, visiting Times Square, the Statue of Liberty and other sites. They also saw "Phantom of the Opera" on Broadway. They also traveled to Chicago before returning to South Korea.
DAVENPORT -- Additional charges have been filed in connection to a Wednesday night shooting in Davenport that resulted in four arrests.

Davenport police responded to a 10:31 p.m. report of a gunshot victim at Genesis East Hospital, according to a Davenport Police Department news release. The victim was a 33-year-old male who had suffered injuries that were not life threatening. The victim said the shooting occurred in the area of 1400 W. 3rd St.

Preliminary investigation led to a traffic stop on a vehicle occupied by possible suspects in the shooting. Officers recovered two handguns, marijuana and prescription pills, according to the release.

Arrested were:

 Salem Jurski, 24, of Davenport, charged with felon in possession of a firearm and trafficking in stolen weapons

 Gary Williams, 26, of Davenport, charged with felon in possession of a firearm

 Clemmie Kirk, 22, of Davenport, charged with delivery, drug tax stamp and possession of controlled substance

 Dillon Reyes, 24, of Bettendorf, charged with interference with official acts.

On Friday, Mr Jurski also was charged with first-degree robbery, willful injury causing serious injury and intimidation. Mr. Reyes on Friday also was charged with first-degree robbery, willful injury causing serious injury and felon in possession of a firearm.

Detectives continue follow up on the investigation. Additional charges are pending, according to the release.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Davenport Police Department at 563-326-6125 or submit an anonymous tip through their mobile app, CityConnect Davenport, IA."
The bill passed by the Legislature was in response to a ruling by the U.S. Department of Labor requiring payment of time-and-a-half for each hour worked over 40 hours.

In his veto message Friday, Rauner said the Illinois Department of Human Services has attempted to reasonably address the overtime being worked by individual providers. He says the agency takes into account both the safety of participants in the program and the need to manage the significant increase in costs resulting from this ruling.
Randall L. Wilcoxen, 62, was charged Friday in Henry County Circuit Court with the Class 3 felony of traveling to meet a minor and the Class 4 felony of solicitation to meet a child. Judge Terry Patton set bond at $100,000 in an initial court appearance.

Mr. Wilcoxen is alleged to have traveled within Illinois for the purpose of engaging in criminal sexual abuse with a person whom he believed to be a 16-year-old with the initials "T.B." who, in fact, was Kewanee Police Detective Michael Minx. He also is alleged to have used an electronic device with the intent to meet a 16-year-old without the knowledge of the child's guardian and for an unlawful purpose.
Andrew D. Jessee, 36, was charged Friday with two counts of driving under the influence. One count alleges he drove an International tractor trailer on Interstate 80 while under the influence of a narcotic drug or a derivative. The second count alleges he drove under the influence of any substance to a degree which rendered the driver incapable of safely operating a motor vehicle.
EAST MOLINE  Cody Dornes said he is tired of being used as a "pawn" in the state's ongoing battle over a budget.

The East Moline Correctional Center employee heads the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Local 46, which represents about 280 people at the prison.

On Friday, he shared his frustration upon learning Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan is seeking court action to prevent Illinois from paying state workers until lawmakers and Gov. Bruce Rauner approve a spending plan that ends a budget stalemate of more than 18 months.

"What she's doing, and what the governor is doing over the last two years, messes with the livelihood of tens of thousands of people across the state," Mr. Dornes said.

On Thursday, Ms. Madigan asked St. Clair County Circuit Court, by Feb. 28, to dissolve a preliminary injunction letting state workers be paid during the budget impasse. Her suit states that the state's unpaid vendors and grantees are bearing the brunt of "this egregioius and untenable budget impasse."

Her move could halt $400 million per month in payroll to state workers, forcing major parts of state government to close.

"We won't abandon the prisons and the state police won't park their cars, but most of state government will grind to a halt," said Springfield political scientist Kent Redfield.

Gov. Rauner criticized Ms. Madigan, the daughter of House Speaker Michael Madigan whom the governor has held up as emblematic of problems he wants to fix.

"I hope this is not a direct attempt to cause a crisis to force a shutdown of the government ... as a step to force a tax hike without any changes to our broken system," he told reporters Friday.

Illinois has been without a budget since July 1, 2015 -- the longest any state has gone without a spending plan since World War II.

"All state employees want to do is their job," said Carlene Erno, president of AFSCME Local 2615. "I don't know what's going to happen. We've been dealing with four or five years of not having a budget, 'we're not going to pay you.'

"Really, we've been pawns in this mess," she said. "We're the easiest target -- really, we are. It puts people in a very precarious spot: Do you go and get another job or do you not come to work. It's just a crazy situation."

Ms. Erno represents about 300 area workers in the Illinois Quad-Cities, including those with the Department of Children and Family Services and Department of Human Services. The employees deal with veterans, unemployement and child support requests, historic sites and state parks.

"We were totally taken aback by the filing," said Anders Lindall, AFSCME Council 31 spokesman out of Chicago. "We're deeply disappointed that the attorney general would take this action."

Mr. Lindall said the filing comes at a crucial time as state employees prepare to take a first-ever strike authorization.

"Bruce Rauner created a hostage situation by refusing to enact a budget without his personal demands being met," Mr. Lindall said. "Attorney General Madigan's motion greatly complicates matters, adding to the uncertainty of state employees."

AFSCME represents about 38,000 state employees.
MOLINE  Illinois' largest public employees union will start voting Monday on a strike resolution for the first time in its 45-year collective bargaining history.

Through Feb. 19, members of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees will vote on a strike authorization, according to AFSCME public relations director Anders Lindall. While the vote doesn't mean a strike will occur, Mr. Lindall said it makes it possible for union leaders to authorize one if negotiations continue to stall with Gov. Bruce Rauner.

Gov. Rauner's office has condemned the strike vote. In a Friday telephone interview with the DispatchArgus editorial board, Gov. Rauner's general counsel, Dennis Murashko, said the vote was a "PR publicity ploy."

It's not a good-faith effort, he said, adding AFSCME's "rush" to authorize a strike endangers state residents and won't be in its members' best interests. On average, he said, a strike will cost AFSCME members about $8,000 a month.

Mr. Lindall countered, saying Gov. Rauner's plan would take $10,000 from employee's pockets annually in higher health premiums alone.

Both sides blame each other for the long impasse.

Other issues in the contract negotiations include overtime starting after 40 hours instead of the current 37.5 hours, four-year wage freezes, drug and alcohol testing procedures, performance-based bonuses and pay steps based on years of employment.

AFSCME represents about 38,000 public service workers in Illinois, ranging from child protection workers to 911 operators and state park personnel, Mr. Lindall said. East Moline Correctional Center employees also are represented, he said, but by law cannot strike.

Mr. Lindall said an earlier framework proposed by AFSCME was dismissed by Gov. Rauner as "superficial." He said AFSCME viewed the offer as representing "huge sacrifices" by union members.

Mr. Murashko said he wished AFSCME would "pose a serious offer, instead of misleading rhetoric."
Cubs fans, don't miss your chance to see a piece of history! The Chicago Cubs' World Series trophy has gone to the White House and now it's on its way to the Quad-Cities. The trophy will be on display from noon to 1:30 p.m. Monday at the River Music Experience, 129 N. Main St., Davenport.

The public is invited to celebrate the Cubs' win and take pictures with the trophy. Tickets are free, according to the RME website, and doors open at 10 a.m. on a first come, first served basis. RME will play a documentary about the Cubs, and Happy Joe's will sell jumbo pizza for $4 per slice and soft drinks for $5 to those waiting in line.

RME will accommodate as many visitors as possible and estimates that 750 groups will make it through the line.

If you can't make it to RME, the trophy will be at the University of Iowa Student Union Building, 125 N. Madison St., Iowa City, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Monday.

For more information, call 563-326-1333 or email feedback@rivermusicexperience.org.

Check out the rest of the trophy tour at chicago.cubs.mlb.com/chc/fan_forum/trophy-tour.
DAVENPORT -- Her heart wants to do all it can to help homeless veterans, and hopes to find other volunteering hearts wanting to do the same.

Barbara Montgomery, chairwoman of the 4th annual Have a Heart for the Homeless luncheon, needs more volunteers to help stage the event planned for noon Feb. 4 at CASI, 1035 W. Kimberly Road, Davenport. In case of bad weather, the event will move to Feb. 18.

It will cost $26 per person. Biaggi's will cater the luncheon; gluten-free dishes will be available. Proceeds will benefit Christian Care and Humility of Mary shelters that house homeless veterans, Ms. Montgomery said.

"I'm trying to help the homeless in the Quad-Cities and marginalized individuals who live at those two shelters," she said.

For reservations, call Christie Schilling at 309-714-8317 or Elaine Kresse at 563-320-3325; or mail checks made payable to Valentine luncheon for the homeless to Christian Care, PO Box 4176, Rock Island, IL 61204-4176. To volunteer, call Ms. Montgomery at 309-945-6129 or 309-937-5700.

Ms. Montgomery is seeking valet drivers, gift-basket helpers, silent-auction handlers, post-event cleaners, food and beverage servers, photographers/videographers and people willing to transport leftover gift baskets to Stenzel Auction Center in Cambridge for a next-day sale, she said.

Nineteen local businesses have donated items for the event.

People unable to attend the luncheon still can support the mission by shopping at Tattered Shoe Antiques n Things, 708 18th Ave., Moline. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. For details, call 309-644-0098.

The store will sell $15 gift cards for items with a retail value of $15 or more. Cards will be sold from Feb. 1 to Feb. 14 and at the Feb. 4 luncheon.

Luncheon attendance has doubled each year, she said.
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The Ballerina of Auschwitz, Dr. Edith Eva Eger, will be the guest speaker at the Feb. 12 Village Viewpoints event at the Village Church in Rancho Santa Fe.

Eger was taken to Auschwitz when she was 16, one of three Hungarian Jewish daughters. Her father was a tailor and her mother a civil servant and they lived in a small town in what is modern day Slovakia. In March 1944, late in World War II, Hungarian Nazis came to her house and arrested her family. The Jews in Hungary were among the last of Europes Jewish communities to be targeted by the Nazis.

The family was taken to other internment centers before they were finally loaded into a train and shipped to the Auschwitz concentration camp in Poland, occupied by Nazi Germany. Upon arriving at Auschwitz, Dr. Josef Mengele, a top medical officer stood at the end of a line of prisoners deciding who would go to the gas chambers and who would head for the prison barracks. Edith was pulled aside by Mengele and not allowed to follow her mother.

Her parents died in the gas chambers of Auschwitz along with more than a million other Jews.

This would not be her final encounter with the infamous SS doctor who later became known as the Angel of Death.

Dr. Mengele came to the barracks and wanted to be entertained, Eger says.

Fellow inmates volunteered Eger to perform for the man who had ordered her parents death.

The talented Edith entertained Dr. Josef Mengele, the Angel of Death, with private ballet presentations and, in return, she got a piece of bread and more time to live. I did what the victims of violence often do: I dissociated.

American soldiers liberated her in Austria in 1945.

Now Eger helps others heal, saying, I want to have a full life, not to be damaged goods, she says.

In the 1970s, Eger began studying psychology. Decades later, she still works as a clinical psychologist, running a practice out of her home in La Jolla. Her specialty involves treating patients suffering from post traumatic stress disorder.

Throughout her career in psychology, Eger has done extensive consulting work with the U.S. military, treating American veterans of wars in Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan. She has also helped set up shelters for female victims of domestic abuse.

Auschwitz gave me a tremendous gift in some ways, that I can guide people to have resilience and perseverance, Eger says.

Please join Village Viewpoints on Sunday, Feb. 12 to see for yourselves that the Ballerina of Auschwitz is still alive and still kicking!

Eger will speak in the Fellowship Center of the Village Church in Rancho Santa Fe. Wine and hors doeuvres will be served beginning at 6 p.m., with Eger to begin speaking at 6:30 p.m. Time will be allowed for audience questions. Advance ticket purchase is recommended and is $25 for adults and $10 for students through Feb. 8 at 5 p.m. After this time, any remaining adult tickets will be $30. Tickets may be purchased at www.villageviewpoints.com or by calling 858-381-8070.
The Pardee RAND Graduate School (PardeeRAND.edu) is home to the only Ph.D. and M.Phil. programs offered at an independent public policy research organizationthe RAND Corporation.
Security footage shows what looks like an all-too-typical episode of lone-wolf terrorism: A single young man pulls a handgun from his waistband and begins firing at helpless victims in an airport baggage claim area. The results were certainly terrifying  five dead, six wounded, countless others traumatized as witnesses to the carnage.

But while this month's attack at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood Airport in Florida outwardly bore the hallmarks of a terrorist event, it should not be automatically lumped in with the many deadly acts of ideologically inspired violence that plague the globe  at least not based on what is now known about the attacker, 26-year-old Iraq War veteran Esteban Santiago.

More than 15 years after fear of international terrorism seized the world's consciousness on 9/11, Americans seem almost eager to explain away senseless acts of mass violence as being driven by ideology, preferably jihadi ideology. This is a mistake that only stokes the fear of terrorism and exaggerates the influence and reach of America's Islamist extremist foes.

As word of the Fort Lauderdale attack spread across the media landscape, journalists, online commentators and many Americans immediately sought to identify the terror nexus that would conveniently attribute the killings to jihadi motivations.

And there it was: Santiago had complained to the FBI that U.S. authorities were forcing him to watch Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) videos in his home state of Alaska and heard voices urging him to join the terrorist group. He later told investigators that he had participated in jihadi online chat rooms, though this has not yet been corroborated.

But does this make Santiago a terrorist? Not necessarily. It could point to a delusional mental state with only a thin connection to terrorism. Such mental conditions are commonly at play in these kinds of attacks, even when the connection to terrorism is less tenuous.

To be sure, those who commit mass murder are seldom society's happy campers, but that should not necessarily expand America's terrorist list to include individuals with histories of aggression, substance abuse or mental illness who put on an ISIS or al Qaeda jersey on their way to the attack.

Who's to say if mental health interventions could have helped prevent some of the attacks that are commonly attributed to terrorist motives?

Who's to say if mental health interventions could have helped prevent some of the attacks that are commonly attributed to terrorist motives, but were committed by individuals with deep personal or emotional problems, some with twisted needs to self-explain their rage, even when their deadly missions are planned to end in their own deaths?

Was Muhammad Youssef Abdulazeez, the shooter who killed five people in Chattanooga, Tennessee in 2015, a lone-wolf terrorist dedicated to jihad or a disturbed individual with alcohol, drug and money problems whose family had sought and failed to get him therapy?

Was the 2016 killing of 49 people at a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida an act of terror committed on behalf of ISIS as the killer, Omar Mateen, told police before he was killed, or was it an act of rage by an angry homophobe on steroids?

It is probably not lost on America's jihadist enemies that their ideology has become a conveyor for individual discontents. Whether planned or not, the jihadists have attracted a self-selecting audience of troubled souls through social media outreach, publicizing their atrocities and urging extreme violence.

All of this is reinforced by intense global media coverage of attacks with terrorist links.

Countering mass violence demands a distinction between those truly radicalized and inspired by jihadist ideology and those with lesser links, including those whose mental states and violent tendencies preexist their exposure to jihadist ideology.

But this is not a simple task in the face of a public that prefers easy answers.

To some audiences, ascribing murderous rampages to political motives may make more sense than a more nuanced explanation that includes mental illness. Terrorism gives Americans a clear culprit and a distant enemy to fear and loathe, whereas mental illness could arouse sympathy, inappropriately mitigating the violence.

And in a curious way, death at the hands of terrorists ennobles the dead and wounded. They are not merely random victims of mindless murder, but casualties of war.

Terrorism is also something that can seem easier to address: Security can be increased, jihadist organizations can be destroyed, violent extremism can be countered. A terrorist can be shot or shut up in prison.

Sorting out how to deal with mental disorders that sometimes don't show themselves until they erupt in bloodshed is a much more difficult task.

Brian Michael Jenkins is a senior adviser to the president of the nonprofit, nonpartisan RAND Corporation and an author of numerous books, reports and articles on terrorism-related topics.

This commentary originally appeared on The Hill on January 26, 2017. Commentary gives RAND researchers a platform to convey insights based on their professional expertise and often on their peer-reviewed research and analysis.
Fox Networks is threatening to withdraw its channels from DirecTV LATAM and Sky Brazil.

After a long negotiation for a new distribution agreement, Fox Networks Group Latin America has said that the current conditions couldnt be extended and, therefore has decided to withdraw its entire portfolio from Sky Brazil and from DirecTV Latin America and the Caribbean.Meanwhile, DirecTV still hopes to reach an agreement before the end of the month, when the current contract expires.We want to keep FOX Networks Group Latin America in our customers line-ups and are working to make certain they remain available for them, it said in an official statement. We appreciate our customers patience as we work to resolve this matter quickly and reasonably.Fox, which manages 19 pay-TV channels in the region, including Fox, Fx, Film Zone, Nat Geo , Fox Sport, Fox Sport 2, Fox Sport 3, Cinecanal, Fox Life and Fox Movie, is not so confident about reaching an agreement any time soon.After several months of negotiations with DirecTV Latin America, we regret not to have reached a distribution agreement. Therefore, if the necessary conditions are not met, Foxs content broadcasting will stop by the end of January, stated Fox Networks Group
IRIN, January 28, 2017

By Bilal Sarwary

Bibi Mariam was milking her cow when it suddenly let out a wild howl and collapsed in a pool of blood.

The so-called Islamic State and the Taliban were fighting near her village in Afghanistans Nangarhar Province. The stray bullet that killed her cow finally convinced Mariam to flee  joining a record number of Afghans displaced by conflict.

It could have hit me or any of my children, Mariam said at her familys new makeshift home, a small tent in a displacement camp near the provincial capital of Jalalabad.



Afghan IDPs. (Photo: Images Guru) Afghan IDPs. (Photo: Images Guru)

Mariam is one of more than 623,345 internally displaced persons who fled conflict in Afghanistan in 2016  an unprecedented amount, according to the UN's emergency aid coordination body, OCHA.

The staggering numbers also confirm a worrying trend: Afghanistan is experiencing significant, year-on-year increases in the number of families driven from their homes, said Danielle Moylan, a spokeswoman from OCHA. The numbers of IDPs in 2016 are three-fold that recorded in 2014, and six times more than recorded in 2012.

Based on current trends, the UN predicts that in 2017 at least 450,000 more people will join those already internally displaced. On top of that, Afghanistan struggles to support many of the 616,620 people pushed back from neighbouring Iran and Pakistan last year. Pakistan has warned that it will begin forcibly deporting Afghans who have not left voluntarily by March, and the UN expects about a million more, many of whom have no homes to return to.

The constant stream of displaced families means that a state of continual emergency has become the norm in Afghanistan, said Moylan.

No future

Many of those displaced are leaving their homes for the first time, and they are forced to live in temporary camps where they struggle for survival.

Mariam had never left her remote valley in Pachir Aw Agam District, where she also raised five children with the help of her husband, until he was killed after being caught in crossfire between police and IS fighters. Over the past six months it had become increasingly dangerous as IS made inroads into the area. The militants began raiding homes as well as fighting with the Taliban over territory.

Mariam and her children left behind the family farm and livestock; now they survive on the meagre earnings her sons make selling the cookies she bakes in a wood oven. The family is hungry most of the time and conditions are poor. They sleep on the ground on tarpaulins, and there is no health clinic or school in the camp.

In Jalalabad, I dont see any future for my daughters or sons, said Mariam, sobbing as she assessed the familys predicament. Their childhood is destroyed.

Rise of IS

The US nation-building exercise in Afghanistan is now a shambles, 16 years after it led the invasion that overthrew the Taliban. The US withdrew almost all of its troops at the end of 2014, and the Afghan National Army was meant to take over security. But government forces have struggled, and lost control of many districts. *The government controlled only 63 percent of its districts by August 2016, compared to 72 percent just nine months earlier, the office of the Special Investigator General for Afghanistan Reconstruction said in a report Wednesday.



Amir Jan with his children by their tent in Samar Khel, a camp outside Jalalabad where people displaced by war have taken shelter. (Photo: Bilal Sarwary/IRIN) Amir Jan with his children by their tent in Samar Khel, a camp outside Jalalabad where people displaced by war have taken shelter. (Photo: Bilal Sarwary/IRIN)

Most territory lost to the government is under Taliban control. But by early 2015, IS had moved into eastern Afghanistan and announced its intention to carve out an area of control called Khorasan, in reference to a historical region that once covered much of modern day Afghanistan as well as parts of Iran and Central Asia.

The group, which is known as Daesh in Afghanistan, has concentrated its activities in eastern Afghanistan, especially Nangarhar, on the frontier with Pakistan. In some areas, local militias have sprung up to fight IS, while others have joined the Taliban or government forces. But IS has also extended its deadly reach throughout the country.

In July, two suicide bombers struck a peaceful protest of ethnic Hazara Shia Muslims in the capital, Kabul, killing 80 people. The IS claimed responsibility for that attack as well as the November bombing of a Shia mosque in Kabul, which killed at least 40 people.

The fight against IS takes place primarily in three districts in Nangarhar Province, according to Attaullah Khogyani, spokesman for the provincial governor. He said IS started fighting in Achin in 2015 and entered Pachir Aw Agam and Chaprihar districts in 2016.

We carry out air attacks and ground operations against them. We also support local resistance against them and [we support the] ALP, he said, referring to the Afghan Local Police, a government-backed force recruited from local communities to fight against insurgents.

Amir Jan, an elder from Achin, said his son joined a local uprising against IS and was killed in battle. Members of IS then made it clear to the community that if they did not back the group, they were not welcome to stay.

One morning, Daesh fighters arrived on my doorstep and told me to leave, and when I tried to bring some stuff, they beat me up, he said in an interview outside his familys tent in Samar Khel camp, outside Jalalabad. I left with nothing.

bs/jf/ag

*(This story has been updated with information from a report by the Special Investigator General for Afghanistan Reconstruction.)

Originally published on Jan. 10, 2017
The Peter Hitchens blog has now been running so long I cant remember when I began it. It has had more than 26 million visits, I have written 2741 posts, and it has published more than 200,000 reader comments.

It deals with major issues in politics  this week a long posting on Trident. My Mail on Sunday column is published there each Sunday morning. I respond frequently to comments on such articles. But it is much more than just politics. I review books, from Adam Toozes The Deluge to Ira Levins This Perfect Day, with plenty in between,. I have recently written about George Orwell[s Barcelona. This is just one of many items under the heading of culture which include long articles about the great cathedral at Chartres, or the walked city of Londonderry. I might also write about the decline of railway restaurant cars, the beauties of pre-metric measurements, the ruined fortress at Brest-Litovsk where the great 1918 treaties were signed, and the excellent restaurants and shopping malls of Gaza. I also quite often review films.

Here you may also find dissenting articles on history. Were we really obliged to go to war for Belgium in 1914? Was British bombing of German cities justified in the 1940s? Do we need Trident? What really happened in Crimea and who does it belong to?

The blog is indexed and archived, though you can just as easily search it for what interests you by entering Peter Hitchens Blog and your chosen subject in a search engine.

In any case, if you have liked and enjoyed my books and articles elsewhere, you may well find there are things on this blog that would interest you. I urge you to explore it.
Unfortunately, in the U.S., the subject of Putin has become the subject of bitter partisan wrangling, especially after allegations that Moscow tried to interfere in the American elections. But Russia should not be treated like a political wedge issue. The stakes are far too high, and Americans of both major parties are deeply concerned by the growing challenge posed by the Kremlin.
Property details:

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Price: $ 1,825 Seller State of Residence: California Property Address: 3365 Filmore Street State/Province: California City: Nice Type: Homesite, Lot Zoning: Residential Zip/Postal Code: 95464 Location: 928**, Orange, California

You will be redirected to eBay



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The office of former prime minister Manmohan Singh may have taken a special interest to try and keep afloat Vijay Mallyas ailing Kingfisher Airlines against the run of play, e-mails and letters claiming this and accessed by CNN-News18 indicate.

In a series of e-mails and letters making these claims, Mallya thanked the former PM for sparing the time to talk to him and also acknowledged that former principal secretary TKA Nair spoke to the ministries concerned -- apparently civil aviation and petroleum -- to help the ailing airline

Thank you for sparing time to meet me on September 8th to explain the... difficulties being faced by Kingfisher Airlines. I had also informed your good self that we had approached our consortium of banks, led by State Bank of India to grant us additional financial support urgently. You had asked me to follow up with Mr TKA Nair, which I did and I am deeply appreciative of the fact that Mr Nair immediately spoke to the concerned people in the ministries involved (sic), Mallyas letter to Singh on October 4, 2011 said.

Another letter sent by Mallya to his top management showed the business tycoon was expecting an infusion of funds after his requests to the top government.

I have instructed AKRN (chief financial officer Vijay Nedungadi) to arrange funds till we get releases that I have requested from the PM/FM (sic), the letter said.

In a third letter, Mallya thanked Singh for the positive statement of support issued during a formal meet-the-press on board Air India One while returning from a trip to Maldives.

This was what Singh had said then: Private sector airlines have to be managed efficiently if they do get into difficulties. We have to find ways and means to help them get out of their losses. But I have not applied my mind to Kingfisher problems. When I get back, I will talk to Mr Vayalar Ravi (then civil aviation minister) and we will explore ways and means in which the airlines can be helped.

The fourth Mallya letter, again to his CFO Nedungadi in March 2013, said that things improved for the company after his meeting with the then finance minister P Chidambaram. The firm got a no-objection certificate from banks that allowed moving shares within his companies, and Mallya was able to arrange a meeting with the top brass of State Bank of India, something which the top public sector bank had been avoiding.

The letter said: There have been some positive developments following my meeting with FM and SGP SBI Banglore have called USL (United Spirits Limited) and are now willing to issue NOC for the preferential allotment SBI would have also got directions to meet with us. Please reach out to the (SBI) chairmans office and Shyamals office by email and phone and request a meeting on Monday, March 25 (sic).

All this happened after Kingfisher was clearly in serious financial trouble -- with its budget airline closing down in 2010 and a consortium of banks restructuring a Rs 2000 crore loan in 2011 -- raising a question on why the United Progressive Alliance-II government was so keen to help a sinking private player.

Kingfisher was grounded in December 2012, and Mallya, faced with a Central Bureau of Investigation probe, was to eventually leave the country in March 2016 with a debt of Rs 9000 crore and salaries of nearly 18 months allegedly not paid to his former staff.
A day after its members allegedly assaulted Sanjay Leela Bhansali and vandalised the set of Padmavati, the Karni Sena on Saturday reiterated its stand to oppose any distortion of historical facts.

The group demanded a written assurance from the director while also blaming his security for the commotion.

Bhansali, who was allegedly assaulted during the shooting of film Padmavati by the protesters, has already packed up his shooting for the film which was going on in Jaigarh fort.

I do not support any violence and the Karni Sena had gone there to oppose the shooting and talk to Bhansali but he refused to meet and three bullets were fired in the air from his security men which led to provocation and commotion, Lokendra Singh Kalvi, founder patron of the outfit said at a press conference.

He said that distortion of historic facts will not be tolerated at any cost, which was well communicated to the film maker five-six months back in Mumbai.

We came to know about the dream sequence of Alauddin Khiji, played by Ranveer Singh, through Singhs interview which quoted him as saying that he was ready to accept the role of villain in the film provided there were intimate scene with Deepika Padukone, who is playing the role of Rani Padmavati, are included in the film, he said.

Producers condemn vandalism on Padmavati sets Calling the act of vandalism and assault on the sets of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Padmavati in Jaipur unacceptable, Film & Television Producers Guild of India Ltd has urged the government to take strong punitive action against the miscreants.

Kalvi said they demanded that whatever bonding Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone share in their personal life should not be picturised in the film for which Bhansali was ready.

We asked him to not even go with dream sequence in which Khilji dreams of love scene with Rani Padmavati for which Bhansali sought a time for two days.

Seeking a two-day time shows that there is something about the dream sequence in the film, he pointed out.

He also asked whether Bhansali can make a film against Hitler in Germany.

We cannot tolerate the move to tarnish the history of our legendary ancestors. Rani Padmavati had made supreme sacrifice by doing Jauhar with 16,000 women in Chittorgarh fort to save herself from Khilji. Her character was like Sita so how the filmmakers can present such hurting things in the film, claimed Girraj Singh, president of Rajput Sabha.

Mahipal Singh, the state president of the Karni Sena, said that they were trying to protect the history.

We had gone to talk to them but bullets were fired in the air which provoked the members. It was me who tried to stop the members from assaulting Bhansali, he said.

The Rajput leaders said that no FIR was lodged because Bhansali had requested them to forget the incident.

But we will not forget our history, Kalvi said.

They also alleged that the shooting was being canned in the Jaigarh fort without permission but the authorities at the fort refuted the allegation saying permission was granted for the shooting.

Cast of movie reacts
President Donald Trump on Saturday signed an executive order which establishes new vetting measures to limit the flow of refugees and keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States.

Im establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America. We don't want them here," Trump said after he signed the executive order in his first visit to the Pentagon, a week after he was sworn in as the President.

"We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas. We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people," Trump said.

"We will never forget the lessons of 9/11, nor the heroes who lost at the Pentagon. They were the best of us. We will honour them not only with our words, but with our actions, and that's what we're doing today," said Trump flanked with the new Defence Secretary Gen James Mattis (retd) and Vice President Mike Pence.

The executive order Protection of The Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry Into The United States notes that the steps taken by the US in the aftermath of 9/11 has not been able to deter terrorists from entering the country.

Numerous foreign-born individuals have been convicted or implicated in terrorism-related crimes since September 11, 2001, including foreign nationals who entered the US after receiving visitor, student, or employment visas, or who entered through the US refugee resettlement program, it said.

Deteriorating conditions in certain countries due to war, strife, disaster, and civil unrest increase the likelihood that terrorists will use any means possible to enter the US, the executive order said.

The US must be vigilant during the visa-issuance process to ensure that those approved for admission do not intend to harm Americans and that they have no ties to terrorism, it said.

In order to protect Americans, the US must ensure that those admitted to this country do not bear hostile attitudes toward it and its founding principles, the executive order said, adding that the US cannot, and should not, admit those who do not support the Constitution, or those who would place violent ideologies over American law.

In addition, the US should not admit those who engage in acts of bigotry or hatred (including honour killings, other forms of violence against women, or the persecution of those who practice religions different from their own) or those who would oppress Americans of any race, gender, or sexual orientation, it said.

The executive order suspends the US Refugee Admissions Programme for 120 days until it is reinstated only for nationals of countries for whom members of Trumps Cabinet deem can be properly vetted.

The order also prevents all persons from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia or Yemen from entering the country for 30 days. Moreover, news reports had said that the US would refuse to provide its visas from these six countries.

With respect to countries like Afghanistan, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia it would resort to extreme vetting.

As per the executive order, the list of such countries is to be expanded. It would be those countries who fail to provide information to the US about their citizens applying for a US visa.

In an interview to Christian Broadcast Network, Trump said he would give priority to Christina refugees. We are going to help them, he said.

They've been horribly treated. Do you know if you were a Christian in Syria it was impossible, at least very tough, to get into the United States? he said.

If you were a Muslim you could come in, but if you were a Christian, it was almost impossible and the reason that was so unfair, everybody was persecuted in all fairness, but they were chopping off the heads of everybody but more so the Christians. And I thought it was very, very unfair, Trump said.

Trump also signed an executive order that will lead to a great rebuilding of the armed forces as he vowed to develop new aircraft, naval ships and resources for the military.

Im signing an executive action to begin a great rebuilding of the Armed Services of the United States, developing a plan for new planes, new ships, new resources, and new tools for our men and women in uniform. I'm very proud to be doing that," Trump said after signing the memorandum.

As we prepare our budget request I think Congress is going to be very happy to see it. Our military strength will be questioned by no one, but neither will our dedication to peace. We do want peace, he said.

The memorandum directs a 30-day military readiness review by the Secretary of Defence.

Meanwhile, top Democratic lawmakers have expressed outrage over Trump's executive order on refugees, which, they said, is un-American and would badly hit genuine people and refugees.

And Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani student activist and Nobel Peace laureate, said she was heartbroken by the order and urged the US President not to abandon the worlds most defenceless.

IMAGE: US President Donald Trump signs an executive order he said would impose tighter vetting to prevent foreigners from entering the United States at the Pentagon in Washington. Photograph: Carlos Barria/Reuters
A heartbroken Pakistani Nobel Laureate Malala Yousafzai on Sunday urged United States President Donald Trump not to turn his back on the worlds most defenceless, hours after he signed an order calling for extreme vetting of people entering America from seven Muslim-majority nations.

I am heartbroken that today President Trump is closing the door on children, mothers and fathers fleeing violence and war, the 19-year-old Pakistani education activist, who survived a near-fatal attack by the Taliban, said in a Facebook post.

Her statement came after Trump ordered extreme vetting of people entering the US from certain Muslim-majority countries and banned the entry of Syrian refugees until further notice, as part of new measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of America.

The countries impacted are Iran, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Libya, Yemen and Somalia, according to a White House official.

I am heartbroken that America is turning its back on a proud history of welcoming refugees and immigrants -- the people who helped build your country, ready to work hard in exchange for a fair chance at a new life.

I am heartbroken that Syrian refugee children, who have suffered through six years of war by no fault of their own, are singled-out for discrimination, she said.

I am heartbroken for girls like my friend Zaynab, who fled wars in three countries -- Somalia, Yemen and Egypt -- before she was even 17. Two years ago she received a visa to come to the United States. She learned English, graduated high school and is now in college studying to be a human rights lawyer, she said.

Malala, the youngest ever recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize which she shared in 2014 with Indias Kailash Satyarthi, a child rights activist, has documented her experiences growing up in Pakistans Swat Valley under Taliban rule in the book I am Malala co-written with Sunday Times journalist Christina Lamb.

She said Zaynab was separated from her little sister when she fled unrest in Egypt. Today her hope of being reunited with her precious sister dims.

In this time of uncertainty and unrest around the world, I ask President Trump not to turn his back on the worlds most defenceless children and families, she added.

Malala, her father Ziauddin Yousafzai and her mother Toor Pekai are now based in Birmingham where Malala attended Edgbaston High School for Girls.

She has expressed her desire to become prime minister of Pakistan in many interviews.

Image: Activist and Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai and 17-year-old Syrian refugee Mazoun Almellehan during a press conference. Photograph: Dan Kitwood - WPA Pool/Getty Images
The adversary violated the ceasefire along the line of contact between the Karabakh and Azerbaijani opposing forces more than 15 times, from late Friday night to early Saturday morning.

January 28, 2017, 09:30 Azerbaijan fired around 180 shots at night

STEPANAKERT, JANUARY 28, ARTSAKHPRESS: During this time the Azerbaijani armed forces fired around 180 shots toward the Armenian position-holders, and with shooting weapons, the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic Defense Army informed.

But the NKR Defense Army vanguard units refrained from taking actions in response, and continued confidently carrying out their military service.
Dan Fox is the chef/owner of Heritage Tavern and Fox Heritage Farms. Fox Heritage Farms is purchasing Willow Creek Farms and Willow Creek Farms Charcuterie, sold at Willy Street Co-op and Metcalfe's Sentry.
A former Onalaska police department records specialist was convicted of embezzling about $70,000 Friday after reaching an agreement with prosecutors.

Kari Neumann, who earlier resigned from her position, pleaded guilty to felony theft during a hearing in La Crosse County Circuit Court.

Although she estimated she took about $7,000 used to pay parking tickets and other citations for her living and medical expenses, an audit found $70,620 stolen from 2012 to 2016, according to police reports.

Neumann, 48, of Holmen will be sentenced at a later date.

The case unfolded on April 8, when a woman reported that the Onalaska city clerks office notified her by letter that her son had an outstanding $191 balance after missing a payment for his traffic tickets.

The woman had a receipt showing she paid the fine in full with cash, although the city had no record of the payment and a receipt in the clerks office signed by Neumann showed it was scheduled for a payment plan, according to reports.

Another police records specialist discovered that receipt missing from the departments receipt book, used when a cash register isnt operating. Neumann later stated she couldnt find the book.

At 2:20 p.m. April 8, Neumann credited the account $191 and left the office about 10 minutes later. That same day, the department discovered it was missing two paper receipt books.
TOMAH  The Department of Veterans Affairs has tapped Victoria Brahm as the new director of the Tomah VA Medical Center.

Brahm has served for 15 months as acting director of the center, which underwent leadership changes after a 2015 over-prescription scandal.

As director she will oversee a budget of nearly $153 million and 1,182 federal workers delivering health care to more than 56,000 veterans at the Tomah hospital and four satellite clinics.

The previous director, medical chief of staff and at least two other care providers were removed after media reports detailed the high levels of opioid prescription and a culture of intimidation and retaliation against employees who spoke out. An 18-month congressional investigation culminated in May with a top VA official acknowledging a clear and inexcusable lack of leadership was to blame for the deaths of at least to veterans who were treated there.

Tomah VA spokesman Matthew Gowan said Brahm plans to continue her efforts to improve relations with patients, staff, and the community.

I dont think any of that changes (by) removing acting in front of her name, he said.

Rep. Ron Kind, D-La Crosse, said the appointment of a permanent director will provide continuity to reforms in Tomah.

I am looking forward to working with Director Brahm and others at the Tomah VA to make sure our veterans are receiving the care they have earned and deserve, Kind said. If done properly, Tomah could become a model of care throughout the entire VA system.

Brahm has served more than 35 years with the VA as a nurse and administrator. Prior to taking over the Tomah VA she oversaw nursing and quality management at eight medical centers and 38 outpatient clinics as well as nursing homes in a four-state Midwestern region.
A look back on all of our reporting of the Delphi murders since 2017
A pregnant woman who went to Beijing to complain about a grievance in her hometown in the northeastern Chinese province of Heilongjiang says she is in danger of losing her baby after being injured by officials sent to bring her home.



Li Naiqiu, who was four months pregnant at the time of her detention, said she was picked up by interceptors from Heilongjiang's Taihe city and escorted back to her hometown from the unofficial detention center at Majialou on Jan. 22.



On the trip home, she was handcuffed and beaten up by the officials, who also kicked her in the abdomen.



"When we got on the bus, it was very cold, and I went to sit in front because I saw there was a space," Li told RFA. "Then, four men started beating me up."



"Now I have to have total bed-rest, otherwise I will miscarry," she said.



Photos of Li taken by a fellow petitioner on the bus showed her bound with and gagged with sticky tape on the trip home.



Violence 'frequently used'



Beijing-based rights activist Zhou Li said interceptors frequently use violence against petitioners on the journey home, but that there is little public interest in the issue.



"A lot of people have reported this, but it seems nobody cares about it," Zhou said. "They just hear stories about it, but because they have never experienced it themselves, they have no reference point in their imagination for it."



"But this photo shows wholly inappropriate force being used; it's shocking. I am appalled," she said.



"What's even more shocking is that she is four months pregnant."



Dalian petitioner Jiang Jianjun said he was once gagged with sticky tape in a similar situation.



"They brought me home in pretty much the same way," Jiang said. "They also took away my gold chain and my cell phone."



"These interceptors just deprive people of their liberty under the guise of working for the government," he said. "It's a huge problem, and China still hasn't sorted it out."



A typical case



Meanwhile, Sichuan-based rights activist Deng Fuquan said he knows a number of people who have been subjected to brutal beatings while being "intercepted."



"I know a few people who have been brought back from Beijing, then taken to a detention center where some random thugs beat them up," Deng said. "These weren't isolated incidents; I can think of dozens of people who this happened to."



"This photo is emblematic of how ordinary citizens are treated nowadays."



And Heilongjiang petitioner Song Yingjun called for better enforcement of China's constitution, which should protect individuals from arbitrary detention by agents of the state.



"These interceptors hired by local governments are illegal," Song said. "Why do they have to operate on the quiet? If they were legitimate, they could work openly."



"I hope she starts legal proceedings."



Reported by Ding Wenqi for RFA's Mandarin Service. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie.




U.S. President Donald Trump has defended his executive order to temporarily halt travel from seven Muslim-majority nations, insisting it was "not a Muslim ban."

Trump said on January 29 that the United States would resume issuing visas to all countries once "the most secure policies" were in place.

Vowing to protect the country from "foreign terrorists," Trump signed an executive order on January 27 halting the entire U.S. refugee program for 120 days, indefinitely banning Syrian refugees, and suspending all immigration from seven predominantly Muslim countries for 90 days.

The move led to protests across the United States and abroad, with a number of U.S. lawmakers joining the chorus against the measures.

Several federal judges have temporarily halted the deportation of visa holders and 16 U.S. state attorneys-general vowed to fight the order as unconstitutional.

"America is a proud nation of immigrants and we will continue to show compassion to those fleeing oppression, but we will do so while protecting our own citizens and border. America has always been the land of the free and home of the brave," Trump said in an official written statement.

"To be clear, this is not a Muslim ban, as the media is falsely reporting. This is not about religion -- this is about terror and keeping our country safe," he added, noting that more 40 Muslim countries were not affected by the order.

Airport Demonstrations

Trumps order led to demonstrations at airports around the United States. And on January 29, hundreds of protesters gathered outside the White House, many chanting, "Let them in! Let them in!"

But White House chief of staff Reince Preibus denied that there had been chaos at airports.

He told NBC television on January 29 that of the 325,000 people who entered the country January 28, 109 were detained.

The order affected up to 200 people detained at U.S. airports or who were in transit, according to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).

"Most of those people were moved out. We've got a couple dozen more that remain and I would suspect that as long as they're not awful people that they will move through before another half a day today," Preibus said.

WATCH: Protests Across U.S. At Travel Ban

The seven countries involved in Trumps order were Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Syria, Sudan, and Yemen.

But underscoring some of the confusion that accompanied Trumps order, Preibus also said foreigners from those countries who are legal permanent U.S. residents -- known informally as green-card holders -- would in fact be allowed back into the United States, but only on a case-by-case basis.

That appeared to contradict the wording of the order, which suggested even green-card holders were affected.

Late January 28, a federal judge in New York temporarily halted the deportation of people holding valid visas or refugees stranded at airports. Judges in at least four other states -- California, Massachusetts, Virginia, and Washington state -- issued similar orders.

Meanwhile, attorneys-general from California, New York, 13 other states, and Washington D.C., pledged to fight what they called Trump's "dangerous" and "unconstitutional" order.

A growing number of Democratic lawmakers in Congress spoke out against the order, and at least three Republicans also criticized its breadth and how it was being implemented.

Republican Senators John McCain and Lindsey Graham -- both of whom routinely criticize Trump -- called the rollout hasty.

Ultimately, we fear this executive order will become a self-inflicted wound in the fight against terrorism," the senators said in a joint statement.

Republican Senator Bob Corker, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said the executive order had not been properly put into effect.

"We all share a desire to protect the American people, but this executive order has been poorly implemented, especially with respect to green-card holders," Corker said in a statement.

'Gift To Extremists'

The order was also criticized by the countries involved and some of America's closest allies, including Britain and Germany.

U.K. Prime Minister Theresa May said she does "not agree" with the restrictions and will appeal to the United States if it affects British nationals.

In Berlin, a spokesman for German Chancellor Angela Merkel said she believes the fight against terrorism "doesn't justify putting people of a particular origin or particular faith under general suspicion."

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said in a January 28 Twitter post that Canadians welcome "those fleeing persecution, terror & war" regardless of their faith.

In Tehran, Iran summoned Switzerland's ambassador, who represents Washington's interests, to protest the Trump rder.

The Foreign Ministry earlier announced it would reciprocate with a ban on U.S. citizens entering the country, but Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said the restrictions would not apply to Americans who already have a valid visa.

Zarif also wrote on Twitter late on January 28 that Trump's decision was "a great gift to extremists," saying "collective discrimination aids terrorist recruitment by deepening fault-lines exploited by extremist demagogues to swell their ranks."

The Iraqi parliament's foreign affairs committee said on January 29 that the U.S. travel curbs imposed on Iraqis were "unfair" and asked the government in Baghdad to "reciprocate" the American decision. Later on January 29, parliament reported reportedly passed a measure that called for blocking all visas to U.S. citizens, which would affect some military and civilian contractors and journalists.

Sudans Foreign Ministry called Trump's order "very unfortunate" after Washington lifted sanctions on the country just weeks ago for cooperation on combating terrorism.

The world's largest body of Islamic nations also expressed "grave concern" Trumps travel ban.

The 57-nation Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) said on January 30 that "many of those fleeing war and persecution have been adversely and unjustly affected" by the order.

"Such selective and discriminatory acts will only serve to embolden the radical narratives of extremists," a statement said.

With reporting by Reuters, AP, AFP, and dpa
During March's Norouz celebrations in Tehran, when Turkmen President Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov's received a two-seater airplane from his Iranian counterpart, Mahmud Ahmadinejad, Jumageldi Mulkiyev made some odd scenes.



Upon the editor in chief of "Turkmen World's" return from Iran, Mulkiyev was dismissed from his position and put into a psychiatric hospital in Ashgabat. He was then released after eight days.



At the time, 80-year-old pensioner and civic activist Amangelen Shapudakov was already sitting in another psychiatric hospital. Fortunately, thanks to international pressure, he was released after 43 days. According to his account, doctors did not force him to take any medication. But, when he returned home, several elders and the local village leader's father came to his house to tell him to stop criticizing the authorities.



Both cases are demonstrative of a tried and true tactic of the Turkmen regime: sending critics to mental institutions.



Although both of the above incidents appear politically motivated, Mulkiyev's "madness" is a bit different. He did not try to form a political party or criticize the government. To the contrary, he was a loyal adherent of former President Saparmurat Niyazov's personality cult, becoming editor in chief of "Turkmen World" in the process. But it seems that he made a grave mistake in publishing his historical novels.



Under Niyazov, the publishing of Turkmen writers ceased completely because only one book was promoted, Niyazov's own "Ruhnama" (Book of the Soul). However, thanks to his successor's repeated demands for more readable books, Mulkiyev became one of the first writers to be published after the death of Niyazov in 2006. Nevertheless, one never knows what might trigger trouble in a lawless country.



Deputy Prime Minister Maysa Yazmuhammedova threatened Mulkiyev by saying that "he first got paid by publishing his novels in a state journal, and then later made money by publishing them in a state publishing house, and that his eyes will be opened in prison."



According to Mulkiyev's former colleague, after hearing this, he couldn't sleep and made "madman's" gestures during the Norouz celebration in Tehran. Some others say that Mulkiyev might have feigned insanity in order to avoid being sent to prison. After his release from the psychiatric hospital in Ashgabat, according to local journalists, Mulkiyev was taken to Mary province by his relatives to rest. As a Turkmen saying goes, "Stay away from the kicker" or "Bail out your head from the bad."



Little Room For Dissent



Shapudakov has a different story. He traveled to Ashgabat to complain to the Interior Ministry about local corruption. As he told RFE/RL, police officers in the Kopetdag district of Ashgabat beat him up, drove him back to his home village of Garrygala, and told him that if he returned to Ashgabat again, worse would happen to him.



Sazak Durdymyradov, a civic activist from Baherden and the leader of the unregistered Advantage Party, was also forcibly put into a psychiatric hospital for two weeks in 2008.



Shapudakov and Durdymyradov, two "inconvenient" people, are known to international human rights groups, as they have been held in mental institutions for voicing their criticism ever since Berdymukhammedov came to power over four years ago. However, because Turkmenistan is a closed country, there are cases where people put into mental institutions or imprisoned for their opinions go unnoticed.



One such instance is that of Nurmuhammed Agaev from the Kahka district, who has been held in a psychiatric hospital in Boynuzyn since 2006. The reason for his detainment was selling radio receivers that receive RFE/RL signals. One day, a man approached Agaev in the bazaar, asking for such radio receivers. When Agaev replied that he sold them, he was immediately taken to a madhouse.



The case of 69-year-old pensioner Kakabay Tejenov's case is another untold story. On January 4, 2006, he was admitted to a psychiatric hospital for writing critical letters to the government. However, the following month, the Turkmen delegation to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe claimed in a statement that Tejenov "has never been detained and he is not confined in any medical institution."



This assertion was contradicted, however, when Gurbandurdy Durdygulyyev, another outspoken critic of the government, was released from the psychiatric hospital in Boynuzyn on April 11, 2006, and revealed that Tejenov was indeed being held there. (When Tejenov was released, he told RFE/RL that, as a side effect of medications he was given, his urinary tract was blocked and he was forced to undergo surgery at a urology department of the hospital in Turkmenaba).



Durdygulyyev had been forcibly confined to a psychiatric hospital in 2004, after asking President Niyazov for authorization to hold a peaceful political demonstration. He was only released after 54 U.S. congressmen wrote an open letter to Niyazov protesting his imprisonment.



...Or Political Opposition



The carting off of political dissidents to mental hospitals is not something that started with the detainment of Durdygulyyev seven years ago. In the mid-1990's, Niyazov twice committed a senior teacher of Turkmenistan's Polytechnic Institute, Durdymyrad Hojamuhammedov, to a psychiatric hospital.



Hojamuhammedov was the co-chairman of the Democratic Party, which attempted to gain official recognition in 1991 soon after Turkmenistan became independent. Hojamuhammedov's second stay in hospital abruptly ended in April 1998, just before an official visit by Niyazov to the United States. At the same time, however, the Turkmen government was holding other dissidents such as Meretmuhammed Berdiyev, Valentin Kopisev, and Rufina Arabaova in psychiatric hospitals as well.



The other leader of the unregistered Democratic Party, Handurdy Hangeldiyev, had been put into a psychiatric hospital in 1982 for criticizing the government and the ruling Communist Party. But he was released three months later upon the death of Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev. Hangeldiyev's freedom, however, did not last for more than a week, as he was recommitted to the hospital after criticizing the appointment of a local party official in the Gazanjyk district.



Hangeldiyev was told that the appointment was made not because of party machinations but because the "people had spoken." Hangeldiyev replied: "Gazanjyk is my birthplace. If I start a campaign, perhaps people will elect me." For this, was put back into a psychiatric hospital, and released after a month.



After his second release, he focused on writing scientific papers. However, he didn't get a chance to defend his dissertation due to political obstacles that the authorities put in front of him. When he wrote complaints to the Kremlin, he was confined to a psychiatric hospital for a third time. Doctors released him after four months with a final warning that if he continued to dissent, he would be sent to a more rigorous mental institution in Tashkent.



Ultimately, Niyazov did not allow the recognition of Hojamuhammedov's and Hangeldiyevs's Democratic Party. But he borrowed one idea from them, renaming Turkmenistan's Communist Party the Democratic Party and bestowing membership on almost all former communists.



'A Home For The Sane'



In 1984, a young colleague of mine published a collection of poems by Annasoltan Kekilowa, who had been forcibly put into a psychiatric hospital, and where she passed away 12 years into her institutionalization. In the book, he presented a note written by doctors at the hospital: "The patient recovered, stopped writing complaints, and admitted that her former thoughts about our party's mistaken policies and her involvement in politics were due to her own health issues."



My old colleagues tell me that in the 1960s, another Turkmen poet also faced this kind of death. Payzy Orazov attempted to form the People's Party and was consequently imprisoned in Moscow's Butyrka prison. His rescue came in the publishing of a poem titled "Long Live Castro" in the "Izvestia" daily. In truth, he was released with the support of the editor in chief of "Izvestia" at the time, Aleksei Adzhubei (Nikita Khrushchev's son-in-law). But he was subsequently put into a psychiatric hospital in Turkmenistan. Orazov ultimately had to move to Tajikistan after being released.



Finally, there is the case of Bazargeldi and Aydjemal Berdiyev, who got rich in the construction business and consequently attracted the attention of the regime. In late 1998, they were unlawfully detained, beaten, and their assets were unlawfully confiscated. Aydjemal, who was pregnant, suffered a miscarriage. Their search for justice, and their battle to retrieve their property, resulted in Aydjemal being placed into a psychiatric hospital as a result of her interview with RFE/RL.



Paradoxically, Turkmenistan's mental institutions have become a home for the sane.



Yovshan Annagurban is a broadcaster with RFE/RL's Turkmen Service. The views expressed in this commentary are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of RFE/RL
Over the past five years, Iranian officials and state media have touted the "indigenous" ingenuity in the Islamic republic's mass-produced Mohajer-6 combat drone, which Russia has deployed in its war against Ukraine.

But a new investigation by Schemes, the investigative unit of RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service, has found that electronic components underpinning Tehran's production of the Mohajer-6 are far from homegrown.



The Mohajer-6 drones contain components produced by companies from the United States and the European Union, both of which have sanctions restricting the export to Iran of such technology that can be used for both civilian and military purposes  dual-use technology.

The presence of these components in the Mohajer-6 does not mean their producers are in violation of U.S. or EU sanctions, and RFE/RL does not have evidence that this is the case.

The investigation also found Mohajer-6 components produced in China, including a real-time mini-camera made by a Hong Kong firm that said it was "very sorry" that its products were being used in war.

At least one major foreign-produced component of the Mohajer-6 has previously been identified by reporters in a Mohajer-6 recovered from the battlefield by the Ukrainian military: an engine made by the Austrian manufacturer BRP-Rotax GmbH & Co KG, a subsidiary of the Canadian company Bombardier Recreational Products.

But Ukrainian intelligence assesses that the Iranian combat drone contains components from nearly three dozen different technology companies based in North America, the EU, Japan, and Taiwan, the Schemes investigation has found. A majority of these companies are based in the United States.



A Schemes reporter who personally inspected the foreign-made drone parts identified components produced by at least 15 of these manufacturers.

These include parts made by the U.S. technology firm Texas Instruments, which said in a statement that it does not sell into Russia or Iran and complies with applicable laws and regulations.

To identify these components, Schemes reporters examined parts of the Mohajer-6 drone that the Ukrainian military shot down over the Black Sea near the Mykolayiv region coastal town of Ochakiv. They also reviewed Ukrainian intelligence records on the sources of these components.

The drone also contains a microchip bearing the logo of a California technology company and a thermal-imaging camera that Ukrainian intelligence says may have been produced by a firm based in Oregon or China.

Both Western officials and experts on illicit technology transfers say Iran has built a broad, global procurement network using front companies and other proxies in third countries to obtain dual-use technology from the United States and the EU.

"Exporters will look at the request coming from the [United Arab Emirates] or another third country, and they'll think that they're selling to an end user based there, when really the end user is in Iran," Daniel Salisbury, a senior research fellow with the Department of War Studies at King's College London, told RFE/RL.

In September, the U.S. Treasury Department imposed sanctions specifically targeting Iranian companies that Washington links to the production and transfer of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to Russia for deployment in its war on Ukraine. Fighting rages with no sign of an end more than eight months after Russian President Vladimir Putin launched an unprovoked invasion on February 24.

"Non-Iranian, non-Russian entities should also exercise great caution to avoid supporting either the development of Iranian UAVs or their transfer, or sale of any military equipment to Russia for use against Ukraine," U.S. Undersecretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian Nelson said in a statement announcing the sanctions.

Chinese Cameras, California Chips

Development of the Mohajer-6, the latest model in a series of drones Tehran has used since the 1980s Iran-Iraq War, began in 2017, while mass production began the following year. During a ceremony commemorating the Islamic Revolution, then-Iranian Defense Minister Amir Hatami said that the new tactical drone could perform surveillance, reconnaissance, as well as help destroy targets.

Hatami extolled what he described as the drones domestic design, a portrayal echoed in later reports by Iranian media.

"The homegrown drone was made through cooperation among the army, Defense Ministry, and Quds Aviation Industries," the English-language Tehran Times quoted an Iranian military official as saying in July 2019.

The dismantling of the Mohajer-6 drone recovered by the Ukrainian military shows that the UAV is packed with foreign components.

One of these parts is a bright-orange real-time mini-camera produced by the Hong Kong-based company RunCam Technology. Documents seen by Schemes show that Ukrainian intelligence has also identified RunCam as the producer of the camera, which likely assists in remote guidance of the drone.

Founded in 2013, RunCam is involved in the development and production of so-called "first-person-view" real-time cameras. "Our users are our friends," the company's website states. The site says that RunCam has two authorized Iranian dealers.

Reached by Schemes for comment about the use of its camera in the Iranian drone deployed by Russia in its war on Ukraine, RunCam said in an e-mailed response: "We are very sorry to know that RunCam's products were used in warfare. RunCam is specialized in producing products for model aircraft hobby. We never contact any customer related to military."

The provenance of the Mohajer-6 drone-s thermal-imaging camera is more difficult to determine. A Ukrainian intelligence assessment reviewed by Schemes indicates it could be the Ventus Hot model produced by Sierra-Olympic Technologies, based in the U.S. state of Oregon, but that it also resembles a cheaper analog available for sale by the Chinese company Qingdao Thundsea Marine Technology.

Qingdao Thundsea Marine Technology said in an e-mailed statement that the company did not "have any business with Iran," because "it will affect our business." The company said it specializes in marine services and is not involved in manufacturing. It also said that it did not have a single successful order for its online advertisement of the thermal-imaging camera resembling the one recovered from the Iranian drone.

Sierra-Olympic Technologies did not respond to a request for comment on the possible use of its thermal-imaging cameras in Iranian combat drones in time for publication.

Microchips recovered from the drone also featured the logos of the California-based company Linear Technology Corporation and its parent company, the Massachusetts-based semiconductor company Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI). ADI did not respond to an e-mailed request for comment on the possible use of its technology in the Iranian combat drone.

Schemes reporters also observed among the components of the Iranian drone a voltage step-down converter produced by Texas Instruments. The company said in an e-mailed statement that it "does not sell into Russia, Belarus, or Iran."

"TI complies with applicable laws and regulations in the countries where we operate, and does not support or condone the use of our products in applications they weren't designed for," Texas Instruments said.

Schemes reporters also saw several components produced by the California-based technology manufacturer Xilinx, whose parent company is the multinational semiconductor company Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), also based in California.

According to Ukrainian intelligence, one of these Xilinx components was integrated into a video data-link module located in the wing of the Mohajer-6 that helped carry out attack missions.

"This module transmits information from the board to the missile head. That is, guidance for the missile. With the help of this module, it was possible to guide the missile to the target," a Ukrainian military intelligence representative told Schemes.

AMD did not respond to a request for comment in time for publication.

'No Authorization'

Previous media reports about the components of the Mohajer-6 drone, including by CNN, have shown evidence that its engine was produced by the Austrian manufacturer BRP-Rotax GmbH & Co KG, whose parent company is the Quebec-based Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP).

The Canadian company responded to the reports on October 21, saying in a statement that it "has not authorized and has not given any authorization to its distributors to supply military UAV manufacturers in Iran or Russia."

"As soon as we were made aware of this situation, we started an investigation to determine the source of the engines," BRP said. .

But Schemes reporters found that the authorized Rotax distributor listed on the Austrian manufacturer's website advertised itself as a Rotax aircraft engines distributor for Iran as recently as December 2020.

The distributor, the Italian company Luciano Sorlini S.p.a., has posted multiple magazine advertisements on its websites in which it describes itself as a Rotax distributor for numerous countries. Prior to January 2021, Iran was listed among these countries.

The Rotax website also lists a Tehran-based company -- MahtaWing -- as an official service center for its engines. The company, known in Persian as Mahtabal, conducts repairs of Rotax engines, including the Rotax 912 iS, the engine that was found in the Mohajer-6 combat drone recovered in Ukraine.

BRP said in an e-mailed statement on November 4 that while Luciano Sorlini S.p.a. is the appointed distributor of Rotax aircraft engines in Iran, "since 2019, no Rotax engines have been sold in Iran, and we will not sell any engines to Iran moving forward."

The Canadian company said it had "internal controls" that "significantly" restrict the sale of its products for military purposes.

"For example, the sale of any BRP product to operators with any military activity in Iran, Turkey, and Russia is strictly prohibited," BRP said. "We conduct our business in compliance with all EU, Canadian, and U.S. applicable regulations."

BRP described the Iranian company MahtaWing as a "local service center" that "offers maintenance services for previously sold aircraft engines."

Shahriar Siami of RFE/RL's Radio Farda contributed to this report.
The Caspian tiger, one of the biggest cats that ever lived, roamed sparse forest habitats and riverine corridors from Turkey to northwestern China before it was killed off by humans in the second half of the 20th century.

Plans to reintroduce tigers to Central Asia, using the Amur tiger from Russia, have been a topic of discussion for about a decade.

But the idea got a scientific boost earlier this month when a study published in Biological Conservation laid out the options for restoring tigers to that region and identified a "promising site" in Kazakhstan that could support nearly 100 wild tigers within 50 years.

Officials from the conservation group WWF say they hope to sign an agreement with the Kazakh government this year that would pave the way for the implementation of a tiger-restoration program. But they also warn that it could take years before important challenges are adequately addressed and big cats start roaming the area again.

"It's a long-term project. Our model just showed that it can require up to 50 years for reintroducing tigers," says Mikhail Paltsyn, who oversaw analytical aspects of the study, by researchers from WWF and the College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) in Syracuse, New York.

The Caspian tiger, a fierce predator that can be up to 3 meters long and weigh more than 140 kilograms, was last seen in the wild in the early 1970s and there are none in captivity, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN).

Returning tigers to Central Asia would involve using the Amur tiger from the Russian Far East, a subspecies that is nearly identical genetically to the extinct Caspian tiger.

"The Caspian tiger formerly populated quite a huge area, about 13 countries," says Paltsyn, an ESF doctoral candidate. "But in the middle of the 20th century it gradually disappeared from all the habitat because of extermination, habitat degradation, and prey degradation."

In the former Soviet Union, the tigers' disappearance was accelerated by bounties paid until the 1930s to promote the poisoning and trapping of the animals.

Meanwhile, a critical tiger habitat -- the tugai, a riparian ecosystem of trees, shrubs, and wetlands that occurs in semiarid and desert climates -- vanished as a result of massive agricultural and irrigation projects, leading to the disappearance of the cats' quarry.

The new study identified two habitat patches in western Kazakhstan that are potentially suitable for their establishment: the Ili River delta and the adjacent southern coast of Balkhash Lake.

It suggested that the 7,000-square-kilometer area could support a population of between 64 and 98 tigers within half a century if 40 to 55 tigers are introduced.

Paltsyn says the area is "only slightly degraded" and still has "considerable cover of tugai woodlands and reed-thicket ecosystem, the same ecosystem the tigers populated until the end of the 1950s" as well as a "low population density" of fewer than two people per square kilometer.

The area also has animals that tigers might typically prey on -- wild boar, Bukhara deer, and roe deer -- although their populations are "low due to poaching," he adds.

As a result, prey populations would need to be brought up to "sustainable levels," a process that Paltsyn says could take from five to 15 years.

Other challenges include ending uncontrolled fires set by local herders looking to turn the landscape into pastures, and addressing human safety and socioeconomic benefits for local populations to provide a sustainable future for both tigers and people.

Kazakhstan and China would also need to agree on regulating water consumption from the Ili River in order to maintain sufficient water levels in Balkash Lake for riparian ecosystems, conservationists say.

WWF and Kazakh government officials have been working for years on a tiger-restoration plan, but it has been delayed since the country's budget was hit hard by falling oil prices and the impact of Russia's economic crisis.

WWF-Russia director Igor Chestin, who was also involved in the latest study, says Kazakhstan appears to be ready to commit to the program, adding that top Kazakh officials were "very enthusiastic" about it during a meeting with WWF officials last year.

He says WWF hopes to reach an agreement with the government as early as this year and attract $20 million from donors over 10 years for the project's implementation, but funding from Astana will also be needed.

"The first thing to start the program is to establish a [protected] national reserve," he says. "It has been designed, planned, and it's actually waiting for the approval of the Kazakh government. So I hope that the reserve will be formally established this year or very early next year. This will mark the real start of the program."

Chestin also says Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed readiness last year to provide Amur tigers for the reintroduction program, but only if scientists confirm it won't harm the tiger population in Russia.

The number of Amur tigers in the Russian Far East has increased in recent decades, with up to 540 animals estimated to be living in the wild there.

The study says that moving some of them to Kazakhstan could be enough to eventually establish a wild population without harming the Russian population.

Chestin insists that the program would primarily use orphaned tigers that are being kept at a rehabilitation and reintroduction center in the Primorsky region.
Kazakhstan's main television channels quickly cleared primetime broadcasting space on January 25 when it was suddenly announced that President Nursultan Nazarbaev would speak to the nation on a matter of great importance. Nazarbaev's surprise announcement turned out to be not so surprising -- amendments to the constitution.

He had already brought it up in an Independence Day speech in mid-December, and on January 11 he created a working group from representatives of parliament, the government, the Supreme Council, and other state organizations, headed by presidential chief of staff Adilbek Zhaksybekov, to work out how to transfer some presidential powers to the parliament and the government.

The changes themselves are not very significant but the fact there are changes is important. President Nazarbaev turns 77 on July 6 this year and his speech was about a transition and a reminder the post-Nazarbaev era might not be too much further in the future.

To look at the speech, the reaction of Kazakhstan's people, and what it might or might not portend for Kazakhstan's future, RFE/RL assembled a Majlis, a panel, to review what just happened and where these events might be leading the country.

Moderating the discussion was RFE/RL Media Relations Manager Muhammad Tahir. From Kazakhstan, veteran freelance journalist and photographer in Central Asia Edda Schlager joined. Also from Kazakhstan, journalist for the bne Intellinews.com website Naubet Bisenov participated. Our friend Dr. Luca Anceschi, lecturer in Central Asian studies at Glasgow University in Scotland, took part. This is a fascinating time in Kazakhstan, so I was happy to jump into the conversation also.

Schlager started by describing January 25. "Social media went quite hot in the afternoon because there was an announcement by the state-led media here in Kazakhstan that there will be this huge announcement by Nazarbaev in the evening," she recounted.

There was intense speculation about what might be coming. But Schlager said, "This speech was quite short and not so specific as we expected...he told [viewers] there are some changes to the constitution."

The specific proposed amendments were published the next day. Bisenov said, "What I can see is only some light, cosmetic changes to the relations between the government, the parliament, and president."

Bisenov noted that one change gives parliament the right to nominate candidates for key posts in the government, but "parliament is stuffed with representatives of the ruling party and other loyal parties...this is just a formality in my opinion."

But Anceschi said the significance of the proposed constitutional changes was that they are "not for the first-generation leader [but] rather for the second, so in that sense he [Nazarbaev] has acknowledged the fact that he's not going to be there forever."

Bisenov said there was another explanation for the speech, and the changes: "Kazakhstan has been experiencing a very serious crisis in the past two years and I think all this is part of distraction of public opinion to real problems."

Officially the amendments are now up for public discussion.

But as Schlager said, "People have economic problems after these devaluation moves during the last two years" and "I see that people are not really interested in politics."

The average citizen might not be closely following the changes in the domestic political scene, but the elite certainly are. And there have been many changes -- reshuffles, arrests -- starting back in September 2016, right after the president in neighboring Uzbekistan, Islam Karimov, died at age 78, and continuing into January.

Anceschi suggested these changes could be "in order to create an establishment that is more conducive to preservation of power in a post-Nazarbaev era."

As far as the constitutional amendments, Anceschi said, "This is not going to lead to a democracy but we have to recognize that [even though] the actors on the scene may eventually change, the play will always be the same [and] it's a very authoritarian one."

It does not appear the amendments will be put to a national referendum; they will simply be adopted.

The panel discussed these and other aspects of the speech, the proposed changes to the constitution, and the possible significance for Kazakhstan's future. The Majlis also provided a chance to discuss the work on transition in Kazakhstan I was proud and pleased to co-author with Dr. Anceschi last September.

My thanks to members of RFE/RL's Kazakh Service, known locally as Azattyq, for our many conversations about this topic.

You can listen to the full discussion below:

Listen to or download the latest Majlis podcast above or subscribe to the Majlis podcast on iTunes.

The views expressed in this blog post do not necessarily reflect the views of RFE/RL
WATERTOWN  An energy drink appears to be behind the merger of two southern Wisconsin beer distributors.

When Coca-Cola Co. in 2014 purchased a 16.7 percent stake in Monster Beverage Co., the multifaceted agreement also made the soda company the preferred distributor of Monster.

In the case of River City Distributing, an Anheuser-Busch distributor in Watertown, the deal, which took effect for River City on Jan. 1, was devastating.

While River Citys 100,000-square-foot facility includes a large Budweiser sign on its facade and Bud Light trailers backed into its loading docks, Monster energy drinks accounted for 16 percent of River Citys revenue.

Steve Kwapil, River Citys vice president of sales, said this week that his company began looking at ways to cut costs but in the last six to eight months talks began with Wisconsin Distributors Inc. in Sun Prairie that led to an agreement announced this week to sell the company.

It was during that conversation (with Wisconsin Distributors) that an offer was received, Kwapil said. They also lost Monster and so we decided to make this move to beef up their portfolio.

River City, in a filing with the state Department of Workforce Development on Monday, said its Watertown facility would close with 72 full-time and 35 part-time employees losing their jobs. On Wednesday night, Kwapil issued a news release that said significant severance packages are being provided with additional compensation packages to employees working to the closing date, expected to be in late March.

He also said all full-time employees of River City are being offered interviews with WDI and the majority of positions will need to be filled to sell and serve the new area for WDI. River City serves 24 counties that include the Madison area to the west, Appleton to the north and as far as Racine to the southeast. In addition, Kwapil said 48 percent of his employees live outside of Watertown.

Casey Trudgeon, executive vice president and general manager of Wisconsin Distributors, would not say how many positions needed to be filled and how many people from River City would be hired. His company serves 22 counties and includes a facility in Appleton.

WDIs commitment to excellent customer services requires a strong and dedicated workforce, he said in a statement. WDI will be interviewing current River City Distributing employees to fill the positions needed to market, sell, and service the beer portfolio being acquired from River City, and looks forward to welcoming new members to an already strong and dedicated workforce at WDI.

River City was founded by Don Kwapil in 1981 and has been a distributor of Budweiser and other Anheuser-Busch products and 19 national craft beer brands including Goose Island. The companys Wisconsin craft beer roster includes New Glarus Brewing, Oso Brewing of Plover, Tyranena Brewing of Lake Mills, Potosi Brewing Co. and 3rd Sign of Waunakee. River City has distribution rights for some of those brands in the Madison area.

Like River City, Wisconsin Distributors, with roots dating back to 1986, is also a major Anheuser-Busch distributor. The purchase will beef up the companys Wisconsin craft portfolio that is limited to products from Veronas Wisconsin Brewing and Madisons Vintage Brewing and One Barrel Brewing, according to the WDI website.

The sale of River City to WDI continues a trend of consolidations among wholesalers throughout the country.

In October, Middleton-based Frank Beverage Group purchased Beer Capitol Distributing Co. in Sussex, a move that created a territory from La Crosse through Madison to the metro Milwaukee area. Beer Capitol retained its name and 320 employees after the sale.

The Coca-Cola/Monster deal brings a 36-year-old Watertown company that was active in the community to an end. Now, its territory is run by another company that doesnt have as strong of ties to a city of nearly 24,000 people that straddles the border of Dodge and Jefferson counties.

Its extremely difficult. The employees are very close-knit and the organization is close to its employees, Steve Kwapil said. Part of this transaction was to make sure that the vast majority of our employees were taken care of.
Nobel Peace laureate Malala Yousafzai has decried U.S. President Donald Trump's orders barring refugees and immigrants from Syria and a raft of other Muslim countries.

"I am heartbroken that today President Trump is closing the door on children, mothers, and fathers fleeing violence and war," said Malala, who the Taliban shot in the head in 2012 because she pushed for the education of girls in Pakistan.

After a struggle to survive, she was named the world's youngest Nobel Peace Prize winner.

"I am heartbroken that America is turning its back on a proud history of welcoming refugees and immigrants -- the people who helped build your country, ready to work hard in exchange for a fair chance at a new life," she said.

Trump on January 27 imposed an indefinite ban on Syrian refugees while imposing temporary bans on refugees from other countries and immigration from Syria, Iraq, Iran, and other specific Muslim countries.

"I am heartbroken that Syrian refugee children, who have suffered through six years of war by no fault of their own, are singled out for discrimination," Yousafzai said.

"I ask President Trump not to turn his back on the world's most defenseless children and families."

Based on reporting by AFP and dpa
A Pakistani university professor and human rights activist who disappeared earlier this month from the capital, Islamabad, is "fine and safe", his brother has confirmed in an interview with RFE/RL.

Earlier in the day, Pakistani police said that Salman Haider had returned home on the outskirts of the capital late on January 27 and that he was safe and well.

Haider was one of five social-media activists and bloggers who disappeared in separate incidents in Islamabad, Lahore, and Nankana Sahib earlier this month.

The other four included liberal bloggers Waqas Goraya, Aasim Saeed, and Ahmed Raza Naseer, as well as Samar Abbas, the head of an antiextremism activist group in Karachi.

They are known for their critical views of the country's military establishment and Islamic extremism.

No group had claimed responsibility for the bloggers' disappearances.

Rights groups said they suspected the bloggers were abducted by Pakistani intelligence agencies seeking to clamp down on dissent.

The Interior Ministry had repeatedly said it is doing all it can to recover the missing men.

Pakistani media, citing police sources on January 28, said that the other missing bloggers had been found.

However, families of the remaining four have not confirmed their return yet.

With reporting by AP and Reuters
Energy independence appears to be a long way away for Kyrgyzstan. As expected, Kyrgyzstan's parliament has revoked an agreement with Russia to construct hydropower plants. The move officially ends a deal that in reality was going nowhere, but it leaves Kyrgyzstan with bleak prospects for harnessing the country's huge hydropower potential.

The decision was made at a January 20 session of parliament but it was clear since late December that the agreement would be canceled.

Kyrgyz Deputy Economy Minister Aybek Kaliev returned from a December 21 bilateral meeting with Russian officials in Moscow and reported that, due to the "unfavorable economic situation" in Russia, it would be impossible for Russian companies Inter RAO and RusHydro to complete their shares of Kyrgyzstan's ambitious hydropower project.

Kyrgyz President Almazbek Atambaev followed by saying on December 24 that "the reality is such that today, unfortunately, our Russian friends will not be able to implement these projects." "This is going to be the case for a long time," he said, adding that "we need to find a new partner."

Kyrgyzstan's Cabinet of Ministers on December 31 approved revoking the deal and just days later Prime Minister Temir Sariev urged parliament to quickly take the necessary steps to break the agreement.

The agreement for the hydropower projects was signed during Russian President Vladimir Putin's 2012 visit to Kyrgyzstan. Inter RAO was tasked with constructing the $3 billion Kambar-Ata-1 facility with a capacity of some 1,860 MW and RusHydro to build the four smaller hydropower plants (HPP) with a combined output of some 237.7 MW and a cost of some $727 million. Inter RAO said as early as 2013 it would not have funds to cover construction of Kambar-Ata-1.

However, the timing of all this could not be worse for Kyrgyzstan. In late December, as Kyrgyz officials were mulling the cancelation of the agreement with Russia, one of the four turbines at the massive Toktogul reservoir broke down. The Soviet-era Toktogul reservoir is the largest power plant in Kyrgyzstan with a capacity to generate some 1,200 megawatts, about 40 percent of the country's electricity needs. Shortly after the first turbine stopped operating on December 22, two more turbines failed.

Prime Minister Sariev visited Toktogul and said it was clear the hydropower facility was in need of repair and upgrades. "It should have been done 15 years ago," Sariev said. "The cables, which are damaged now, have been used for more than 40 years instead of the recommended 25 years."

Clearly, the Kambar-Ata-1 HPP and Naryn cascade are vital projects for Kyrgyzstan.

When speaking in December about Russia's inability to finance the hydropower projects, Sariev was undaunted. "We will think of attracting other investors," he said. "There are plenty of them."

Despite Sariev's optimism, however, it is unclear who these potential investors might be. China has been mentioned, but as Central Asia specialist Casey Michel mentioned in a recent article, "the likelihood of...Beijing supplanting Moscow in financing the projects, at least in the immediate future, remains low."

Very low indeed. China has invested heavily in Central Asian infrastructure projects during the last decade, but nearly all of these projects serve to export energy resources, goods, and materials to China. A domestic hydropower project meant to benefit Kyrgyzstan would not be a project high on the list of Chinese investments.

Additionally, RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service, known locally as Azattyk, reports that another deputy economy minister, Nurlan Sadykov, has said Kyrgyzstan should repay the $37 million Russia already spent on the Kambar-Ata and Naryn cascade projects, though he didn't say where Kyrgyzstan's cash-strapped government would get that money.

Kyrgyzstan has moved in recent years to break its dependence on gas supplies from Uzbekistan, especially since those supplies were often suspended by Tashkent due to Bishkek's inability to pay on time. Instead Kyrgyzstan imports some electricity from neighboring Kazakhstan and in recent years has also imported electricity from Tajikistan. Kyrgyzstan has also increased the use of coal-based thermal power plants, but must import some coal to fill its needs.

Kyrgyzstan has been hoping to be energy independent for years, but with the cancelation of the hydropower agreement with Russia that wait might now go on for a decade or more.

RFE/RL Kyrgyz Service director Venera Djumataeva contributed to this report
The regional police chief in the north of Kosovo has been suspended after he was accused of refusing to implement the government's policy on phasing out license plates issued by Serbia when Kosovo was still part of the country.

Nenad Djuric was suspended after the Police Inspectorate of Kosovo announced on November 3 that he is suspected of criminal offenses related to his refusal to implement the plan.

Minister of Internal Affairs Xhelal Svecla said that the refusal to implement the governments decisions represents a serious threat to the security and stability of Kosovo.

The Kosovo police is one [force] and all its members should have the same mission: the rule of law and the creation of a safe environment for all citizens regardless of difference, Svecla said on Facebook. We will not allow any action that violates this mission, and together with the Kosovo Police we will continue its implementation.

The main party representing Serbs in Kosovo, Serbian List, said that the decision to suspend Djuric was illegal.

Goran Rakic, chairman of the party, said that the Serbs should "strengthen and build" their own institutions in northern Kosovo in cooperation with Serbia.

Rakic said that he has called an extraordinary meeting of the Serbian List with the mayors of four municipalities in the north of Kosovo with Serbian majorities. The meeting will be held after the "illegal and anti-Serbian decision" to suspend Djuric, he said.

Radic said he will call on Serbs to vacate institutions in the north, including judicial, police, and other institutions.

Meanwhile, the head of the office for Kosovo in the Serbian government, Petar Petkovic, told a news conference on November 3 that Djuric was suspended because "he stood in defense of the Serbian people."

He questioned what mistake Djuric had made by refusing to participate in the decisions of Kosovar Prime Minister Albin Kurti, which are political."

Djuric said on November 2 that the police in the north would not implement the government's decision to issue warnings to drivers who have cars with license plates issued by Serbia.

Djuric was appointed regional police commander in the north in June 2013 after Kosovo and Serbia reached the first agreement on the normalization of relations in the dialogue mediated by the European Union.

The agreement stated that the regional commander in the four municipalities with Serbian majority is to be appointed by the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kosovo.

Kosovo has attempted several times this year to require its Serb minority to change their old car plates from before 1999 when Kosovo was still part of Serbia. Authorities began implementing the latest plan to phase out old vehicle license plates on November 1.

Kurti announced the plan last week, saying drivers would first be given warnings during an initial three-week period starting on November 1. That is to be followed by a two-month period when 150 euro ($149) fines will be issued. There will then be another two-month period during which temporary license plates will be valid.

If drivers do not change their plates by April 21, their vehicles will be confiscated, according to the government decree.

Kosovo and Serbia fought a war in 1998-99, with Kosovo eventually declaring independence from Serbia in 2008.

Ethnic Serbs in the north of Kosovo have been using car plates issued by Serbian institutions since the end of the war with the acronyms of Kosovar cities such as KM (Kosovska Mitrovica), PR (Pristina), or UR (Urosevac).

The government in Kosovo regards the plates as illegal but until now has tolerated them in four northern municipalities with Serb majorities.
By RFE/RL

The White House said the first official phone call between President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin was a significant start to improving the relationship between the United States and Russia that is in need of repair.

The hour-long call on January 28 was their first official contact since Trump's inauguration on January 20.

In statements released by the Kremlin and the White House, there was only passing mention of the situation in Ukraine, where Russia's annexation of the Crimea Peninsula prompted sweeping U.S. and European sanctions. In the days leading up to the call, there was speculation that Trump would move to lift those measures.

There was also no reference to the question of Russia's alleged interference in the U.S. presidential election. U.S. intelligence agencies have concluded that Russia interfered using computer hacking and propaganda, seeking to bolster Trump's campaign.

Both President Trump and President Putin are hopeful that after today's call the two sides can move quickly to tackle terrorism and other important issues of mutual concern, the White House said in a short statement released after the call.

The Kremlin, meanwhile, had a similarly upbeat assessment of the conversation, saying it showed there is "a mood for restoring and improving" cooperation between the United States and Russia.

It said that "both sides showed their readiness for active, joint work to stabilize and develop Russian-American cooperation."



The Kremlin said Putin and Trump both favored the idea of coordinating Russian and U.S. actions in Syria aimed at defeating Islamic State (IS) militants and what the Kremlin called "other terrorist groups."

It said Putin and Trump stressed the importance of "restoring mutually beneficial trade and economic ties" between their two countries.

However, Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Interfax that Trump and Putin did not discuss the issue of easing U.S. sanctions that have been imposed against Russia over its illegal annexation of Ukraine's Crimea region and Moscow's support for pro-Russia separatists in eastern Ukraine.

The Kremlin statement said Putin and Trump did discuss the situation in Ukraine.

It said the two leaders agreed to establish "partner-like cooperation" on international issues, including "the crisis in Ukraine," the situation in the Middle East, strategic stability, and the fight against terrorism.

It said they also discussed Iran's nuclear program and developments on the Korean peninsula, and that the two agreed to work out a time and a place for a future meeting.

A photo released on Twitter by White House press secretary Sean Spicer showed Trump in the Oval office during the call with Vice President Michael Pence, U.S. National Security Adviser Michael Flynn, White House Chief of Staff Reince Priebus, and Trump senior adviser Steve Bannon.

Spicer said Trump spoke by telephone with German Chancellor Angela Merkel for 45 minutes on January 28 before his call with Putin.

Germany and France on January 28 both expressed concern about reports from the United States suggesting the Trump administration was considering the possibility of lifting U.S. sanctions against Russia.

Berlin and Paris both insist that European Union sanctions against Russia should not be lifted without progress by Moscow on implementing the Minsk peace accords, which are aimed at bringing an end to the war in eastern Ukraine between Kyiv's government forces and Russia-backed separatists.

With reporting by Reuters, AP, dpa, AFP, Interfax, and TASS
Turkmenistan has bestowed a prestigious state award  the Ruhubelent Order -- on the wife of Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, saying she has helped improve ties between the two countries.



In a ceremony in Ashgabat, President Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov said Svetlana Medvedeva was being recognized for inspiring spirituality and morality among young people.



Medvedeva is not known for showing any particular interest in Turkmenistan.



Ties between the two countries have been strained since 2009 when Russia abruptly halted imports of natural gas from Turkmenistan.





Based on reporting by AP, RFE/RL's Turkmen Service, and Turkmen state TV
The first lawsuit against President Donald Trump's new immigration restrictions has been filed after two Iraqis with ties to U.S. security forces in their homeland were detained at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport.



The two men are challenging, on constitutional grounds, Trumps temporary entry ban against nationals from seven predominantly Muslim countries, including Iraq.



The lawsuit was filed in a federal U.S. court in Brooklyn, New York, on January 28.



It says their connections to U.S. forces make them targets for terrorists if they are sent back to Iraq, and that they have valid visas to enter the United States.



One of the men, Hameed Khalid Darweesh, worked as an interpreter for the U.S. Army and for a U.S. contractor in Iraq, from 2003 until 2013.



Darweesh was released later on January 28 after a brief detention.



The second plaintiff, 33-year-old Haider Sameer Abdulkhaleq Alshawi, was still being held later on January 28.



He is the husband of an Iraqi woman who now lives in Houston, Texas, after working for a U.S. contractor in Iraq.



Authorities say 10 other travelers not named in the suit also were detained at JFK airport on January 28 under Trumps executive order.

The immediate, 90-day U.S. entry ban applies to Iraq and six other countries: Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen.

* CORRECTION: This story was amended from its original version to correctly describe the travel ban as issued by the White House.

Based on reporting by AP and Reuters
A Madison company has developed a software tool aimed at helping women decide when and how often they should have a mammogram to check for breast cancer.

HealthDecision says its tool combines data from a patients electronic health records and medical history with guidelines physicians are supposed to follow to make recommendations about breast cancer screening.

The result is a personalized analysis of a patients risk of developing and dying of breast cancer in the next 10 years, the company says.

The patient and physician can review the analysis together, said Jon Keevil, HealthDecision CEO and founder.

Many guidelines have data that is 50 pages long. To actually get the full nuance of what is needed for the patient (during an appointment) is way beyond the capacity of any physician, Keevil said in an interview.

Keevil  who was a cardiologist at UW Hospital and UW-Madison faculty member until he quit to go full-time with the company last summer  developed the software tool with UW Health physicians Sarina Schrager, Beth Burnside and others, with the help of a 2013 Wisconsin Partnership Program grant.

The project stemmed from the controversy over how often women should have mammograms and at what ages.

Healthcare guidelines can be confusing to patients as well as doctors, especially when there is conflicting information in the public domain, Schrager said in a statement.

The breast cancer screening analysis is the latest in a series of software tools designed by HealthDecision.

Its other products are:

An atrial fibrillation tool to look at a patients risk of developing a stroke and to see if anticoagulant medications would be more helpful or harmful.

A cardiovascular risk tool that examines a patients cholesterol levels and smoking habits to see if statin medications might be beneficial in reducing the risk of heart attack or stroke.

A lung cancer screening tool that analyzes the ups and downs of a chest CT scan for patients who have smoked. CT scans can be helpful but they can also result in false positives, Keevil said.

Keevil said the recommendations may vary based on a patients age, gender and medical criteria.

They serve as an educational tool for both patients and physicians, he said, and are part of a process gaining popularity thats known as shared decision-making.

The tool itself doesnt tell the patient whats right. It simply shows what options are there to facilitate better conversations, Keevil said.

HealthDecision was formed as HeartDecision in 2004 and changed to its current name in 2010 as Keevils research moved beyond cardiology targets.

The first software tools have been used at UW Hospital since 2010. By 2016, 24,000 patients a year were using them, Keevil said.

A large health system  whose name is not being disclosed  began using the software tools in 2016 and Dartmouth-Hitchcock health system added the atrial fibrillation tool in January 2017, he said.

Were now working to expand our offerings to other health systems, Keevil said.

The company held its first outside fundraising round last year and received $330,000 from individual investors in the Madison area and around the country.

HealthDecision has eight employees, three of them full time, and all working out of their homes.

Understory makes

a top 50 list

Understory, a Madison company that provides detailed, real-time weather data, is on the first annual THRIVE top 50 list issued by SVG Partners, an investment and advisory firm based in Silicon Valley.

The ranking of agriculture-related companies includes Understory in its big data and analytics category.

Understory, in the 316 Building at 316 W. Washington Ave., was founded in 2012 and makes weather stations aimed at providing extensive weather data, primarily to farmers and insurance companies.

SVG plans to honor the top 50 companies on Feb. 1 in Menlo Park, California.
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A Madison man was charged with two felonies Friday after police say he was the lookout for a 12-year-old boy as he stole more than $5,000 from a Fitchburg grocery store during a daring robbery earlier this month.

Jordan N. Chislom, 25, is charged with being party to a robbery with the use of force and party to theft of movable property.

He was released after posting a $1,000 signature bond, according to online court records.

Chislom admitted to Fitchburg detectives that he was with the boy when the boy robbed the Pick n Save, 3010 Cahill Drive, on Jan. 7 as well as a nearby animal grooming store and an individual at an unnamed store, according to a criminal complaint.

The boy admitted to robbing the Pick n Save and punching an employee who tried to stop him and told detectives that he didnt want to rob the store but the people who took him there wouldnt let him leave, the criminal complaint said. The boy was identified only by his initials in the complaint.

Fitchburg police referred charges against the boy that include three counts of theft and one count each of robbery with the use of force and theft of movable property to the Dane County District Attorneys Office, Fitchburg police Lt. Todd Stetzer said.

District Attorney Ismael Ozanne said the boy has been charged as a juvenile.

Chislom is a friend of one of the boys family members, Stetzer said.

Stetzer said the thefts follow similar incidents that occurred in the Chicago area that involved adults ordering children to steal for them.

Last May, a 33-year-old woman from Aurora, Illinois, was arrested after she allegedly ordered her three children, between the ages of 7 and 13, to help her steal merchandise from a Naperville Wal-Mart, the Naperville Sun reported.

In 2015, five family members from Aurora, including two 16-year-old children, were arrested for allegedly stealing from a Chicago area outlet mall, according to the Naperville Patch.

The thinking is the kids wont be in as much trouble if theyre caught because they are juveniles, Stetzer said. Its flawed thinking.

According to the criminal complaint:

The boy, who was 11 at the time, entered the service desk area of the store around 9 p.m. on Jan. 7, pried open the register and took just over $5,000 in cash.

He was spotted by a Pick n Save employee but the boy eluded her by jumping on, and off, the service desk counter.

The employee said the boy punched her in the right ribcage as she tried to grab him and she heard him say, Jordan, come help me, as he ran away.

The employee saw about $600 that had fallen out of the boys pockets.

Fitchburg police identified Chislom and the boy on Jan. 9 after comparing surveillance video and photos of the incident at the Pick n Save and an incident on Jan. 5 at Tabby & Jacks, 2970 Cahill Drive, where a person opened a cash register and took more than $100, and a store where a wallet was taken from a customers purse.

They were then spotted later that day in Chisloms car and stopped by police.

The complaint said the boy answered affirmatively after a detective told him about the Pick n Save robbery and then asked him if he needed that money to have a place to stay.

When detectives asked him if Chislom was with him at the store, the boy said, of course.
Two men who police believe robbed a Prince George County hotel Friday were arrested in a convenience store restroom later that night, according to police.

Around 6:15 p.m. Friday, two masked gunmen entered the Econo Lodge office on Parkdale Road in Prince George County and demanded money. The men displayed semiautomatic handguns and locked the clerk in an office area before fleeing with an undisclosed amount of money, police said.

Officers who were called to the scene were canvassing the area when they noticed two men in a nearby convenience store restroom who matched descriptions given at the hotel that had been robbed. Evidence recovered from both men, and other information officers acquired, led to the arrest of both subjects, police said.

Howard Jones Jr., 23, of Hopewell, was charged with armed robbery, use of a firearm in commission of a felony, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Jeremy Fisher, 19, of Hanover, was charged with armed robbery, and use of a firearm in commission of a felony. In an unrelated case, Fisher was charged with burglary and larceny of firearms.

Both men were taken to Riverside Regional Jail, police said.
CHARLOTTESVILLE  A former Albemarle County teacher has admitted to having a sexual relationship with a student and now faces up to 20 years in prison.

A county judge accepted a guilty plea Friday from Amelia Tat, the former Jack Jouett Middle School teacher who was arrested last June and charged with three counts of carnal knowledge of a minor and one count of taking indecent liberties with a child. Two of those charges were dropped, but Tat still faces a 10-year maximum prison sentence on each of the charges to which she has pleaded guilty.

Tat, 27, was a science teacher at Jack Jouett during the 2014-15 school year. During the latter half of that school year, she began communicating with one of her students via social media sites like Instagram and Snapchat, prosecutor Darby Lowe said in court on Friday. She intimated in those communications that she had developed feelings for the student, and began asking him personal questions.

At one point, Tat asked the student to stay late and help her with something after class, at which time they had sexual intercourse. The victim was between the ages of 13 and 15 at the time, Lowe said.

It is unclear where exactly the encounter occurred and whether it took place in Tats classroom; while Lowe said it occurred in Albemarle County, she did not specify and would not elaborate when asked after the hearing. A spokesman for the county school system also declined to comment on the matter.

The following September, the victim was at a baseball tournament in Lynchburg, where Tat has an apartment. Tat picked up the victim from one of the games, took him out to eat and then back to her apartment, where they again had sex, Lowe said.

The relationship came to light when the mother of the victim found text messages from Tat on her sons phone. She contacted authorities on June 22, and Tat was arrested a short time later. While she initially denied the claims, she later confessed.
Richmonds list of streets that evoke vivid images is impressively long. Consider Monument Avenue, with its stately mansions rising above the statuary and the tree-lined median. Or Riverside Drive, with its bluffs-edge vistas of the James River. Or East Grace Street in Church Hill, with its rows of elegantly understated, antebellum homes.

Pope Avenue, which meanders in appealing curves through the northwestern corner of the Bellevue neighborhood in Richmonds North Side, might not spring as readily to mind, but it should. At some point, you might even have done a double take as you drove past it. If youre traveling on Hermitage Road, its easy to spot. A large granite arch rises above it with the word Bellevue chiseled into its crown.

Nearly 50 years ago, Rob Snowden, who was studying at Virginia Commonwealth University, made a point to drive under the arch on his way to shop at Azalea Mall.

I would drive through the arch because it was cool, Snowden said.

In fact, driving under the arch introduced Snowden to Pope Avenue and its attractive mix of Craftsman, Tudor, Colonial and Mediterranean revival-style homes, and he fell in love with the idea of owning a house there. He had to wait a while, but he and his wife, Kathy Snowden, bought a large Craftsman with deep, overhanging eaves on Pope Avenue in 1996.

Moving in here was like a goal attained, Snowden said.

The arch, it turned out, was a pretty good marketing tool, and it has been for a long time.

The Bellevue arch was erected in 1894 to serve as an eye-catching entryway to one of the idyllic suburban communities that Richmond businessman Lewis Ginter and his business partner, John Pope, had planned to develop on farmland that was then in Henrico County.

Ginter, Richmonds wealthiest resident, had made his fortune in tobacco, and Pope was his protege, serving as first vice president of Ginters American Tobacco Company as well as playing leadership roles in Ginters other business interests.

Ginter molded him into a leading capitalist devoted to Richmonds prosperity, development and image, said Brian Burns, author of Lewis Ginter: Richmonds Gilded Age Icon.

Among Ginter and Popes land purchases was the tract that would eventually become a part of todays Bellevue neighborhood.

They werent the only ones branching into suburban developments in the late 1800s. Several prominent businessmen bought tracts in northern Henrico, hoping to capitalize on the growing demand for residential communities that didnt have the problems associated with cramped, often unsanitary city conditions.

However, the Panic of 1893, which triggered a nationwide economic depression, brought a sudden halt to residential construction, and Ginter and Popes plans for the Bellevue tract as well as others were delayed. They installed the granite arch and laid out roads, including present-day Pope Avenue, but they didnt put individual lots on the market, Burns said. (The granite for the arch probably came from Ginters quarry near the intersection of Lakeside Avenue and Oakwood Lane, he added.)

Other serious setbacks followed in the wake of the economic depression. Pope died in 1896 at the age of 39 from a throat infection, and Ginter, grief-stricken by his proteges death, died the following year at the age of 73.

Nearly a decade passed before Popes brother, George Pope, laid out half-acre and larger lots for the Bellevue tract and began advertising them as part of the Bellevue Park subdivision. (George Popes plans called for portions of present-day Princeton Road to be a park along the subdivisions northern boundary.) He also named Pope Avenue in honor of his brother.

In an ad from 1906, it was called John Pope Avenue, Burns said. It later got abbreviated.

Still, the development failed to get traction until Popes sister, who had inherited the land after George Popes death, sold it to two brothers, J. Lee Davis and C.W. Davis, in 1919. The brothers company, Davis Brothers Inc., built homes throughout the city beginning in the 1910s, and they played a major role in Richmonds postwar expansion.

In the meantime, construction on another Ginter-and-Pope project, Ginter Park, had begun in earnest in 1906, and it became central Virginias first master-planned, suburban community.

In the midst of the citys postwar housing boom, Davis Brothers built houses steadily along Pope Avenue throughout the 1920s and into the 1930s, by which time it was nearly built out. (Today, the street has approximately 25 houses.) Its eclectic aesthetic reflects the eras interest in a variety of architectural styles, including European ones such as Tudor and Mediterranean revivals.

Its like a drive through Hollywood, said Joan Peaslee, a real estate agent with Berkshire Hathaway PenFed HomeServices Realty.

The streets expansive houses (the largest is 4,091 square feet, according to tax records) along with the large lot sizes (the largest is 1 acre, according to tax records) have proved to be perennially popular among homebuyers.

Houses on Pope Avenue dont come on the market often, but when they do, theyre bought instantly, Peaslee said. People like to move up in Bellevue, and Pope Avenue is the street in Bellevue.

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A woman was arrested Friday for allegedly abusing her 3-year-old foster child, Madison police said.

Erica C. Dorsch, 31, of Madison, allegedly caused a serious head injury to her foster son Friday morning, police spokesman Joel DeSpain said.

Police arrived at a home on the 700 block of Engelhart Drive around 9 a.m., Despain said. The boy was taken to the hospital in critical condition, DeSpain said, and he is still in a pediatric intensive care unit.

The emergency call was made by a foster parent of the boy, but Sgt. Jennifer Kane would not say if the call was made by Dorsch.
A Place for All Conservatives to Speak Their Mind.
On 28 January Artsakh Republic President Bako Sahakyan sent a congratulatory address to President Serzh Sargsyan of the Republic of Armenia, Central Information Department of the Office of the Artsakh Republic President stated.

January 28, 2017, 10:10 The Armenian army is one of the significant factors of maintaining peace and stability in the region. President Sahakyan

STEPANAKERT, JANUARY 28, ARTSAKHPRESS: The address runs as follows:

"Honorable Mr. President,

On behalf of the people and authorities of the Artsakh Republic and myself personally I cordially congratulate You on the 25th anniversary of the formation of the heroic Armenian army, a holiday that is dear and memorable to all of us.

The Armenian army has passed a glorious way and is the pride of all the Armenians, the main guarantee of our people's security, one of the significant factors of maintaining peace and stability in the region. The Armenian soldier with his unwavering spirit and invincible might brilliantly performs the Motherland defender's.

Respectful Mr. Sargsyan,

Having been standing at the origins of the Army's formation, You have done everything possible for its development and strengthening. In Artsakh we know and appreciate Your contribution and patriotic efforts.

In connection with this cherished holiday I once again congratulate You, the whole personnel of the Republic of Armenia's Armed Forces and our entire people, wishing peace, great successes and new victories on the way of solving national issues and strengthening the Armenian statehood".
Republicans opposed the Department of Education from its beginning and regularly threaten to abolish it now, arguing that educational policy should be reserved to the states.

Two respected Democrats also objected to the departments creation almost 40 years ago. New York Sen. Daniel Moynihan warned it would become a partisan sword. New York Rep. Shirley Chisholm worried about divorcing education from other policy areas vital to student success, such as making sure they had decent housing and enough to eat.

History has proved the critics right. Its time for the department to be dismantled. It has done some good, especially in pointing out education inequity. But more often it has served political, not educational, interests.

In fact, the Department of Education was created by President Jimmy Carter in part as a gift to the National Education Association for the unions early support of his candidacy. Politics was the departments original sin, and that reality has gotten only worse.

Though President Ronald Reagan opposed the departments existence, he recognized its political utility. His secretary of Education, William J. Bennett, used the influence of the office as a weapon in the culture wars by promoting traditional curriculums. Betsy DeVos, President-elect Trumps choice for secretary, is likely to continue its politicization. She has a track record of advancing school vouchers and charter schools. It seems probable she will advocate for a privatization agenda, no matter the views of local communities.

This politicization of education is most clearly evident in the 2001 No Child Left Behind Act and the departments enforcement of its provisions. This measure  a signature part of President George W. Bushs legacy, with an assist from Sen. Edward Kennedy  required the restructuring and potentially the closing of an entire school if all its students in specific subgroups (for example, minority, economically disadvantaged, or special ed students) did not achieve proficiency on reading and math tests.

It rejected the idea that poverty, students home lives or other factors outside the schoolhouse might contribute to low achievement. Such suggestions were just excuses for bad teaching.

Of course, effective teachers, good reading and math skills, and periodic student assessments are important. But the No Child Left Behind Act had obvious failings. Universal proficiency was simply an impossible, utopian mandate. And it was a fiction that students life circumstances had no effect on their learning.

Rather than admit the impossibility of proficiency for all students, the Education Department took a hard line. Secretary Rod Paige declared that his oath of office required him to enforce the law. A few months after the No Child Left Behind Act passed, he named 8,600 schools that failed to meet the laws requirements. Unless they improved, the department would sanction them. In the face of these threats, school districts slashed budgets in nontested subjects, such as art and music, and students sat for exam after exam in math and reading.

The departments approach changed only marginally under President Barack Obama. Initially, Obamas secretary, Arne Duncan, continued the departments relentless enforcement of the laws punitive provisions. But as local educators complaints intensified and student achievement stalled, Duncan finally admitted in 2011  10 years after its passage  that No Child Left Behind was a slow-motion train-wreck and granted waivers to states to avoid the laws full force. But policies such as the incentive grants in the Race to the Top program still emphasized education outcomes measured by tests, the pillar of NCLB. When Congress reauthorized No Child Left Behind in 2015, the law was renamed but the focus remained on testing.

To be fair, the Department of Education didnt initiate or write the legislation. But it did bring the full weight of the federal government against states and local school boards.

No Child Left Behind erroneously presumed that Congress and the department  not local education agencies  understood how best to address schooling for high-needs learners. Its the locals, however, who have real advantages in helping such students.

School boards in towns and cities are less ideological and more pragmatic than politicians in Washington. They see students in personal and concrete terms. They have to work with classroom teachers, local administrators and community leaders as partners. Because they are less wedded to a political dogma, they respond more quickly when a policy isnt working for kids.

Washington has a role to play in education. The federal government alone is positioned to prevent local control from becoming a pretext for discrimination. It also must maintain funding to schools and colleges. But a separate executive branch department isnt necessary for those functions. The essential tasks can be shifted to Health and Human Services and the Justice Department.

After 40 years of top-down, politically tinged intrusion, its possible to imagine a more collaborative, less rigid relationship between our schools and the national government. Abolishing the Education Department is a good place to start.
The Good Food Awards named Red Rooster Coffee Roasters Ethiopia Washed Hambela a winner in the 2017 Good Food Awards. Red Rooster was one of five Virginia businesses taking home top honors this year.

The 193 Good Food Award winners were announced Jan. 20 at a gala awards ceremony at the historic Herbst Theater in the San Francisco War Memorial. Medals were given by renowned chef and activist Alice Waters and organics pioneer Nell Newman, tipping their hats to these exceptional food producers.

This year more than 2,059 entries were received, representing 14 categories and 38 states; 291 finalists rose to the top in a blind tasting after passing rigorous vetting to confirm they met specific Good Food Awards standards. These standards include environmentally sound agriculture practices, good animal husbandry, sourcing transparency and responsible relationships throughout the supply chain.

Award categories include beer, charcuterie, cheese, chocolate, cider, coffee, confections, fish, honey, oils, pantry, pickles, preserves and spirits. The awards are now in their seventh year.

Other Virginia businesses taking home top honors include: Timbercreek Market in Charlottesville; Blue Bee Cider in Richmond; Texas Beach Bloody Mary Mix in Richmond; JM Stock Provisions in Charlottesville; and Port City Brewing Company in Alexandria. The full list of 2017 Good Food Award winners can be found at goodfoodawards.org.

Red Rooster Coffee Roaster was established in 2010 in downtown Floyd, with the simple notion of roasting excellent coffee for the owners existing coffee house, The Black Water Loft. Co-owners (and husband and wife) Haden Polseno-Hensley and Rose McCutchan soon found that their passion for carefully sourced and meticulously roasted specialty coffee was shared by customers around the region. Today, Red Rooster offers a multitude of exceptional single-origins, organic and fair-trade blends, direct-trade coffees, transparently traded coffees and select microlots from around the world. More information can be found at https://redroostercoffee.com/.

 Submitted by Jolie Greatorex
As the mother of middle schoolers, Ive supplied my fair share of two-liter bottles to make ecosystems. An ecosystem is that complex, interwoven web of realities and relationships in a particular ecological area. A forests ecosystem, for instance, includes the trees and their leaves, the bugs and birds, herbivores, omnivores and carnivores.

We use the term ecosystem in economic development as well, to describe the setting that best supports new entrepreneurs. Writing in the Harvard Business Review, professor Daniel Isenberg (who Ive spent time with through Start-Up Milwaukee), describes the entrepreneurship ecosystem as a dynamic, self-regulating network of many different types of actors. Just like a natural ecosystem has many moving parts, so too a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem needs multiple allies, from investors and incubators to educators and customers.

Wisconsin has traditionally been weak on our start-up statistics but strong on our survival rate for new small businesses. In other words, our people generally only take good risks, which means we dont take as many risks but when they do they usually work out. Because of this, sometimes our state is unfairly attacked as being bad for entrepreneurs. Far from it  we are great for new companies that want to start up in a business-friendly place, with a world-class workforce, competitive business climate and outstanding quality of life.

Last week I joined with the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. to announce $500,000 in investments to support our entrepreneurial ecosystem. Government cant launch companies or create private-sector jobs by diktat. But we can help sustain a healthy ecosystem through grants to local groups that educate and empower entrepreneurs.

Im especially pleased about grants supporting entities affiliated with the University of Wisconsin. The UW-Madison Law & Entrepreneurship Clinic, for instance, is expanding to target our emerging food and beverage center. UW-Stouts Center for Innovation and Development in northwest Wisconsin is helping inventors do market research. The Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation here in Madison is expanding its training program for minority and women entrepreneurs, while the UW-Milwaukee Research Foundation is piloting a program to support innovative health-care ventures in Wisconsin. This is the Wisconsin Idea in action.

Of course, the states role in supporting entrepreneurs goes far beyond grants to community groups and university allies. The Walker administration has expanded tax credits for angel investors, put seed money behind minority and community chambers revolving loan funds, and launched a Wisconsin venture-capital fund. Gov. Scott Walker also signed one of the nations first crowd-funding statutes, allowing family and friends to invest in new business ideas.

Entrepreneurship forms the backbone of our economy, and I am proud to report the entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in the Badger State. I see it every day as I cross Wisconsin, meeting innovators, inventors and investors. And Im excited were taking the next step with these grants to expand our ecosystem and to support more budding businesses, knowing that small businesses generate 60-plus percent of new jobs  no empty two-liters required.
SPC calls Int'l community to lift air embargo on Sana'a Airport





SANA'A, Jan. 28 (Saba) - The Supreme Political Council (SPC) called on Saturday the international community to lift the air embargo imposed by the Saudi-led aggression coalition on Sana'a International Airport and to end all forms of unjust siege on Yemen.



In its meeting, which was chaired by Vice-President Dr. Qasim Labuza, the council confirmed that the blockade has affected the lives and rights of citizens and expanded the circle of poverty and need and is a disgrace to the silent and complicit international institutions.



In the meeting, the members of the national negotiating delegation, Arif al-Zoka and Mahdi al-Mashat, informed the council on the results of the delegation's meetings with the United Nations' envoy to Yemen, Ismail Ould Cheikh, during his recent visit to the capital Sana'a, as well as the efforts to reopen Sana'a Airport before the air traffic.



Al-Zoka and al-Mashat said that Ould Cheikh, during his recent visit, was briefed on the size of the suffering of the Yemeni people as a result of the unfair actions taken by the aggression against civilians, including the imposition of the air embargo and prevent civil and commercial flights to and from Sana'a International Airport, in a an apparent violation of all international laws and customs.



They indicated that the national delegation confirmed to the UN envoy its insistence on a comprehensive cessation of the aggression and lifting the unjust siege on all land, sea and air ports, topped by Sana'a International Airport, to allow free movement of citizens, transfer patients to receive treatment and allow Yemenis stranded in airports of the world to return home.



In this regard, the council hailed the role praised the role played by the national delegation, valuing the efforts of the competent security authorities at Sana'a International Airport to secure the United Nations and international organizations flights.



BA

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[28/January/2017]
A day after Sanjay Leela Bhansali and his crew were assaulted on the sets of his forthcoming directorial "Padmavati", the filmmaker decided to cancel shooting in Jaipur, sources close to him said on Saturday.

A day after Sanjay Leela Bhansali and his crew were assaulted on the sets of his forthcoming directorial "Padmavati", the filmmaker decided to cancel shooting in Jaipur, sources close to him said on Saturday.

"He has packed up and has said he will never shoot again in Jaipur," the sources added.

Sources said that Bhansali has decided to have sets in Mumbai and carry on shooting there.

According to reports, the team will be leaving for Mumbai from here later in the evening.

On Friday activists of a Rajput organisation, Shree Rajput Karni Sena, protested, misbehaved and manhandled the crew of Bhansali's upcoming film "Padmavati", police and eyewitnesses said.

They also damaged some cameras and other equipment, forcing Bhansali to stop shooting.

"We had earlier requested him (Bhansali) to show us the script which he did not do. We are against distorting of historical facts and we know that he has distorted historical facts," Vivek Singh of Karni Sena told IANS.

"Padmavati" tells the story of Alauddin Khilji, the medieval-era Delhi ruler, who fell in love with Rajput queen Padmavati. Actors Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone and Shahid Kapoor star in the film.

Bhansali was shooting some portions of "Padmavati" in Jaigarh Fort on Friday when at around 12 p.m. some activists of Karni Sena gathered there and started to protest.

They even manhandled and misbehaved with Bhansali and his crew members. There was a complete chaos for some time and Bhansali had to stop shooting.

Police had a tough time in controlling the situation.

"He (Bhansali) is distorting history and we will not allow them to do so," Lokendra Singh Kalvi, a senior leader of Karni Sena told a press conference here on Saturday.

"This film should not be made. We wrote a number of times to Bhansali asking him to present history in the right manner. But he did not listen to us," Kalvi said.

Karni Sena claimed they have got a big library. "In no book is it written that Alauddin Khilji fell in love with Padmavati or he was her lover," he said.

"They are trying to defame Padmavati by distorting historical facts. It is not acceptable," an activist of Karni Sena said.

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Swaraj India on Friday dubbed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ambitious "Swachh Bharat Mission" a "complete failure" in Delhi, claiming that only a little over Rs 2 crore of the allotted Rs 366 crore has been spent in the city.

"During the five years of the mission, Delhi was supposed to get Rs 360.01 crore. But the total amount spent in Delhi in the last two years is only Rs 2.22 crore," party General Secretary Ajit Jha said, claiming that the North and East Delhi Municipal Corporations "did not spend a single rupee" in 2015-16 from the Rs 92.28 crore and Rs 83.99 crore allocated respectively.

"In last two years, the South Delhi Municipal Corporation has spent a meagre Rs 1.86 crore out of its allocated Rs 66.47 crore," he claimed.

Questioning the Bharatiya Janata Party's commitment towards clean Delhi and Swachh Bharat, party's Chief Spokesperson Anupam said: "... hardly anything has been done under the mission in Delhi. But the BJP leaders, including the Prime Minister, never get tired of photo shoots and making speeches.

"Owing to these reasons, Modi's Swachh Bharat Mission has become a joke in the national capital. It has been a complete failure."

The party demanded that Modi take cognisance of the lapses and immediately take steps to ensure its effective implementation.
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Friday issued notice to the Bihar government on the alleged murder of a class 10 girl student whose body was found in a drain near the gate of the hostel earlier this month.

The commission, which has taken cognizance of the matter from National Commission for Women(NCW), has learned that the victim had complained that one of the teachers of the school was mounting pressure on her for sexual favours.

The incident was reported at the government-run residential Ambedkar Awasiya Balika Uchh Vidyalaya, at Dighi (Majirabad) in the state's Hajipur district.

Though the investigation is on from the police, NCW has alleged that police authorities are not taking proper action in the matter even as the family of the victim is being threatened.

The NHRC was also informed that the NCW team visited the school and found it in a bad condition.

"Heaps of garbage were piled up inside the school premises. It is cleaned only by the students as there is no other arrangement. The place where the food is prepared for the students is also full of filth with bad odour. There is only one hand-pump in the school for 345 girl students," said a statement from the commission after receiving the complaint from NCW.

Stating that the contents of the complaint raise serious issue of violation of right to life and dignity of the girl students studying in the school and residing in the hostel, the commission has issued notice to the state Chief Secretary seeking a report on the issue within six weeeks.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tribute to Lala Lajpat Rai on his 151st birth anniversary.

Paying homage to the leader who is known for his contribution to the Independence movement, Modi said Lala Lajpat Rai was respected for his "fearlessness, impeccable integrity and fight against injustice."



Tributes to Lala Lajpat Rai on his birth anniversary. He was respected for his fearlessness, impeccable integrity & fight against injustice.

Rai, popularly known as Punjab Kesari was part of the "Lal Bal Pal" trio.





He was one of the three extremist members of the Indian National Congress who gave their life for the independence of India along with Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Bipin Chandra Pal.



Rai was born on January 28, 1865 and died on November 17, 1928.
Five Indian Army soldiers trapped under snow were rescued ' title=' were rescued '>were rescued on Saturday near the Line of Control (LoC) in Machil sector of Jammu and Kashmir.

Earlier, three soldiers were pulled out in Machil sector of Kupwara district. Later the two missing soldiers were rescued.



All the five, of a Rashtriya Rifles (RR) patrol party, are being treated for hypothermia, officials said.



The soldiers were trapped after the snow track on which they were moving caved in on Saturday near the LoC.



The incident comes just days after two avalanches hit a military post and a patrol along the Line of Control, killing 15.



The RR party was on routine counter insurgency duties when the mishap occurred, the sources said.





A massive rescue operation was started by the army and police immediately.



Kashmir has seen heavy snow this week and authorities had warned of the "high danger" of avalanches. Power and communication lines are also down in some areas.



Officials evacuated dozens of residents from high-risk areas after authorities issued an avalanche warning in many parts of the region.
Continuing his frontal attack on Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal's family, Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi on Saturday said his son and Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal was an "icon of corruption".

"Sukhbir Badal is an icon of corruption. The biggest corruption in any state of the country is occurring in Punjab," Rahul said at a rally in support of Congress candidate Ravneet Singh Bittu.

Bittu, a Congress MP from Ludhiana, is pitted against Sukhbir Badal from Jalalabad assembly seat for the February 4 assembly elections.

Questioning Prime Minister Narendra Modi's claims of fighting corruption, Rahul said: "Modi should explain why is he supporting Sukhbir if he is fighting corruption?"

Rahul said Sukhbir Badal, who is also President of the ruling Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) which has an alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party in the state since 2007, and the SAD had deviated from the ideology of Sikhism's founder, Guru Nanak Dev.

"Sukhbir Badal claims he is protecting the Sikh religion and ideology of Guru Nanak Dev. But Sukhbir and the Akali Dal say everything is theirs," the Congress leader said.

He said the Badal family had monopolised all businesses in the state, including transport, cable TV and mining etc., and were getting commission from liquor trade.

"The Badals have finished all industry in Punjab. They don't allow people from other countries and states to invest and start industry here. Industry has moved to other states and Punjab youths are rendered jobless," Rahul said.

He said the youths were being denied government jobs by the Badal government.

The Congress Vice-President cautioned people against supporting the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of Arvind Kejriwal.

"Punjab needs a Chief Minister from Punjab. (Arvind) Kejriwal runs Delhi like a dictator," he said.

He reiterated that Congress Punjab unit chief Amarinder Singh would again be the Chief Minister if the party returns to power in Punjab.

On Friday too, Rahul Gandhi had slammed Modi as well the Akali Dal on the corruption issue.

"Modi talks of corruption and religion at various places. But how can he stand with the corrupt Akali Dal leaders and talk of fighting corruption?" Gandhi had said at an election rally in Akali stronghold Majitha in Amritsar district.

Majitha is represented in the assembly by Revenue Minister Bikram Singh Majithia, who is a brother-in-law of Sukhbir Badal and brother of Union Minister Harsimrat Kaur.

The 117-member assembly will go to polls on February 4. The counting of votes will be held on March 11.

The main contest is between the ruling SAD-BJP alliance, the Congress and the AAP.
Congress Vice-President Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav will hold a joint road show here in Uttar Pradesh on Sunday.

This would be the maiden outing of the two leaders since the Congress and SP have stitched up an electoral alliance for the state assembly polls starting from February 11.



Gandhi and Akhilesh would launch a poll campaign with a tagline -- UP ko ye saath pasand hai (UP relishes this alliance), aimed at telling people that the two parties were their choice as they go to vote.



The two sides are looking forward to gauge the minds of the people towards their coming together. A joint press conference would also be held.



While the Special Protection Group (SPG) that guards the Gandhi scion has been assessing the route that the road show will take, a nod from the Election Commission is also awaited.



According to sources, in case the permission does not come or there is some other security related problem, a rally would be held here.





Strategists in both camps are worried at the lukewarm interest and response shown to the alliance so far.



While the announcement of the alliance by their state unit chiefs Naresh Uttam and Raj Babbar did not create enough buzz, even the first three rallies of Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav in Sultanpur and Lakhimpur Kheri have not gone down too well.



"The biggest challenge before us is to impress upon the people our coming together, which as of now appears to be a daunting task, keeping in mind the lack of time," said a senior Akhilesh aide.



The two sides have however expedited work on joint rallies, and Akhilesh and Gandhi are likely to address 14 joint rallies.



The two are likely to be joined by Kannauj MP Dimple Yadav and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra at select places.



The 'raths' and other publicity material of the SP have been improvised and now carry the pictures of Priyanka Gandhi and Congress chief Sonia Gandhi as well.
Batting for all-round development of Uttar Pradesh and wooing voters, the BJP on Saturday released its manifesto promising to waive off loans of marginal farmers, provide interest free loans to them and distribute laptops to the youth.

Releasing the manifesto here, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Amit Shah said that Uttar Pradesh had been "left behind" in the race for development.

"For the last 15 years Uttar pradesh has been ruled by either Samajwadi Party or Bahujan Samaj Party during which all the development works were stalled in the state; so we are going to bring in the era of performing politics," Shah said.

"If voted to power, we will make Uttar Pradesh a developed state in five years," he promised.

"I appeal to the people to give us one opportunity, and we promise to turn UP into a developed state."

Promising to waive off loans of small and marginal farmers, he said: "While the new loans to the small and marginal farmers would be given at zero per cent interest, the sugarcane farmers would get the payment of their crops within 14 days from sugar mills."

"Debt of Rs 6,000 crore of the sugarcane farmers will be cleared within 120 days if the BJP is voted to power," he said.

He also said his party would make arrangements to buy the yields of crops from farmers at the minimum support price.

For the drought-hit Bundelkhand region, Shah said, "The new BJP-led government would set up a Chief Minister Agriculture Irrigation Scheme with a budget of Rs 20,000 crore to make water available in every field of Bundelkhand."

Noting that the number of cattle were on the decline in the state, Shah said, "We will shut all the illegal slaughter houses in the state and ban all the automatic slaughter houses too."

To bring 'White Revolution' in the state, the BJP will start a Dairy Development Fund with Rs 15 crore, he said.

"For the state's milk collection with the help of the National Dairy Development Board a dairy processing unit would be formed for every four districts," Shah said.

The party also promised to create a fund of Rs 150 crore for agricultural development in the next five years.

Targetting Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav over his laptop distribution scheme, Shah said, "We won't discriminate with any student of any caste or religion to distribute the laptops.

"We will distribute laptops to youth with 1 GB free internet for an year," Shah said.
Defending tickets given to kin of party MLAs and MPs, Bharatiya Janata Party President Amit Shah on Saturday took a dig at Congress Vice-President Rahul Gandhi, saying if he were to get married, his yet-to-be-born child would be anointed the next leader of the opposition party.

He was responding to a pointed query on whether giving tickets to family members of senior BJP leaders amounted to promoting dynastic rule.

He said Rahul Gandhi's family was an example of dynastic politics in the country.

"... it was decided that after Nehru, it would be Indira (Gandhi); after her, Rajiv bhai; and after him, Rahul Gandhi... that is what we are opposed to," Shah said.

The BJP chief claimed giving tickets to the kin of MLAs and MPs was not dynastic politics.

Asked if the an alliance between Rahul Gandhi's party and Samajwadi Party of Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav will make any difference to the BJP's prospects in Uttar Pradesh, Shah replied in the negative.

"The alliance poses no challenge to us," he said, adding that in the new alliance, only the Samajwadi Party was of some consequence.

"Akhilesh has looted the state while Rahul Gandhi has looted the country; now both are planning to plunder Uttar Pradesh jointly but the people are wise enough," he added.

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Ties between the US and Britain have "never been stronger", US President Donald Trump said here as he welcomed British Prime Minister Theresa May to the White House.

"Great days lie ahead for our two peoples and our two countries. "On behalf of our nation, I thank you for joining us here today as a really great honor," Trump said during a joint press conference with May on Friday, the first foreign leader to meet the new US president, Efe news reported.

"Thank you for inviting me so soon after your inauguration and I'm delighted to be able to congratulate you on what was a stunning election victory," May said, going on to hail the US-Britain special relationship -- "a relationship based on the bonds of history, of family, kinship and common interests".

Trump, alluding to London's "Brexit" plan for withdrawal from the European Union, spoke of a "free and independent Britain" as a blessing and said that the US-Britain "relationship has never been stronger".

Both leaders agreed that negotiations on a new US-Britain trade pact will begin once London has completed the Brexit process and May announced that Trump had accepted Queen Elizabeth II's invitation for a state visit to Britain later this year.

When the subject shifted to international issues, May took the opportunity to reassure Europe regarding Trump's view of NATO, an alliance he has described as obsolete.

"Today we've reaffirmed our unshakeable commitment to this alliance -- Mr. President I think you confirmed that you are 100 per cent behind NATO," the British Prime Minister said.

In response to a question about Western sanctions against Russia over Moscow's annexation of Crimea, May said that Britain and other European nations wanted to see them continue.

Trump, who calls for better relations with Russia, said that it was "very early to be talking about" lifting the sanctions.

Time was also spent on the question of torture, which Trump praised during the election campaign and again this week in an interview.

Before making the trip to Washington, May faced pressure - even from within her own Conservative Party - to emphasize Britain's opposition to torture.

When the matter came up during Friday's press conference, Trump said he would be guided by the judgment of Defense Secretary James Mattis, a retired general who has disputed the effectiveness of torture methods such as waterboarding.

"He has stated publicly that he does not necessarily believe in torture or waterboarding, or however you want to define it," Trump said. "I don't necessarily agree. But I would tell you that he will override because I'm giving him that power. He's an expert."
US President Donald Trump said he had a "very good" telephonic conversation with his Mexican counterpart Enrique Pena Nieto amid a diplomatic spat over Washington's plans for a border wall.

During a joint press conference with visiting British Prime Minister Theresa May on Friday, Trump confirmed that he and the Mexican president spoke for nearly an hour, media reported.



"It was a very, very friendly call," Trump said.



"We are going to be working on a fair relationship, a new relationship," the US president said. "We are going to be renegotiating our trade deals."



The conversation came a day after Pena Nieto cancelled a planned visit to Washington in response to Trump's signing an executive order to initiate his promised border wall and insisting again that Mexico would ultimately pay for the barrier.



Pena Nieto's office issued a statement on Friday confirming the phone call and saying that the two presidents agreed to resolve their differences over the wall as part comprehensive discussions about all aspects of the bilateral relationship.



Trump and Pena Nieto also resolved to instruct their respective staffs not to make any further public comments about the issue of the wall, according to the Mexican government statement.



On Wednesday, the US president signed several executive orders affecting immigration, including one that assigns federal funds for the construction of the border wall.

In an interview with ABC News later that day, Trump said that while the US government would pay the initial construction costs, Mexico would ultimately reimburse Washington.



Pena Nieto has repeatedly insisted that Mexico will not foot the bill for the wall and did so again on Wednesday.



In a series of tweets on Thursday, Trump said Mexico should pay for the wall because it had long benefited from the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) at Americans' expense.



Citing the persistent US trade deficit with its southern neighbor, he said it would be better to cancel his January 31 meeting with Pena Nieto if Mexico refused to defray the cost of the wall.



Within hours of Trump's tweets, Pena Nieto announced that he would not be travelling to Washington, though the US leader described the cancellation as a mutual decision.



"The president of Mexico and myself have agreed to cancel our planned meeting scheduled for next week," Trump said Thursday during a gathering with congressional Republicans in Philadelphia.



"Unless Mexico is going to treat the US fairly, with respect, such a meeting would be fruitless and I want to go a different route. We have no choice," the president said.



Later Thursday, White House spokesman Sean Spicer told reporters that Trump intended to impose a 20 per cent tax on imports from Mexico to cover the cost of the wall.



The tax, however, cannot be immediately levied because of NAFTA, the 1994 accord linking the US, Canada and Mexico that the president has repeatedly criticized as a destroyer of American jobs.
How Netflix Can Turn A Profit While Spotify Has Not (Yet)

Now in it's tenth year of streaming, Netflix had a bumper year for both subscriber growth and earnings. Spotify too has seen a steady rise in subscribers, but so far seems unable to turn a similar profit.

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Guest post by Mark Mulligan of anaylyts MIDiA and the Music Industry Blog

Having just celebrated its 10th (streaming) birthday, Netflix followed up with a strong earnings release, announcing 5.8 million net new paid subscribers in Q4, sending its share price up by 9%. This wraps up a stellar year for Netflix, one in which it doubled down on original programming and delivered acclaimed hits such as Stranger Things and The OA, shows that dont fit the traditional TV mould. In fact, Stranger Things was turned down by 15 TV networks before finding a home at Netflix and The OAs oscillating episode lengths (from 1 hour 11 mins to 31 mins) would have played havoc with a linear TV schedule (not even considering its mind bending plot).

Netflix closed 2016 with 89.1 million subscribers and the temptation to benchmark against Spotifys equally strong year is too strong to resist. Spotify (which celebrated its decade in June 2016) closed the year with around 43 million subscribers, 48% the size of Netflix. But a closer look at the numbers tells another growth story.

In terms of net new subscribers (i.e. how many more paid subscribers there were at the end of the year compared to the year before) Spotify added just under a million more subscribers than Netflix did in 2016. This is the first time that Spotifys growth has exceeded Netflixs (in absolute terms, not percentage terms). While Netflixs 5.8 million net new subscribers in Q4 2016 was impressive, it followed two much smaller quarters (2.2 million, 3.4 million) and its average quarterly growth for 2016 was 4.6 million. Spotifys growth by contrast was much more consistent, and higher, averaging 4.8 million. (Note that Netflix reported 7.1 million net new subscribers, however this includes 1.2 million trial subscriptions).

In way of context, Netflixs core territory (the US) is nearing saturation, adding just 14 million net new subscribers in Q4 2016. The US now accounts for 54% of Netflixs growth. So Netflix has a more mature user base than Spotifys. However, Netflix is aggressively pursuing international growth and it has acquired debt to do so. It raised $400 million in 2014 (largely earmarked for European expansion) and a further $1 billion in 2016 (to fund originals and international growth  including international originals and programming). When Spotify raised an additional $1 billion it sent shockwaves through the music industry. When Netflix did it, the TV industrys reaction more closely resembled gentle (albeit concerned) ripples. Another interesting music / video comparison: in response, Amazon announced it was expanding to 200+ additional markets to its existing 5 in December. Very reminiscent of Deezers 200+ markets roll out in response to an increasingly competitive Spotify back in 2011.



One of the festering wounds of the streaming music business is commercial sustainability. All the key streaming services are either losing money or are part of a bigger company (which absorbs the losses). Netflix, by contrast, posted an 18.5% streaming margin for 2016. Content is the biggest cost for Spotify and co, but interestingly they are in line with Netflixs content costs. Looking at Netflix (FY 16), Spotify (FY 15) and Deezer (H1 15) content costs as a % of revenue is broadly similar. Deezers costs are lower as a share, reflecting the fact that so many of its subscribers were inactive during the period (53% of the total).

So why can Netflix achieve an 18% streaming margin, yet Spotify -9% and Deezer -12%. (Note: Netflix reported a 20% overall margin, but this includes the much higher margin legacy DVD rental business). The reason for the difference between music and video streaming quite simply boils down to the way content costs are structured. Minimum Revenue Guarantees (MRGs) are a key factor for streaming music services, as this entails the services guaranteeing to pay for anticipated subscriber growth. If they miss the numbers they still pay, but even if they hit them it means they are always paying against tomorrows numbers, not todays, which is damaging on a cash flow basis. The variance can be highly unpredictable. Deezer wiped off 85% of its gross operating margin in 2014 (compared to 2013) with unused minimum guarantees on rights.

Free users also add a significant rights burden to freemium music services and dilutes revenue. Thus Spotifys revenue subscriber is $75.73 compared to $99.03 for Netflix, despite it having a $9.99 price point compared to Netflixs $7.99.

But the main reason for Netflixs stronger position is that it owns so much of its content, while Spotify and co rent their content. This means that Netflix is able to employ a series of sophisticated accounting techniques to make the company more profitable. Netflixs original shows are a balance sheet asset and so can have costs amortized and offset to help profitability. (eg Netflix has a cash flow line item Amortization of streaming content assets for +$4.8 billion).

So where does this all leave us? Who is the winner? Music or video? Spotify or Netflix? Fundamentally both services are growing at impressive rates and have much to be proud of with regards to their respective 2016 performances. Overall, business dynamics are broadly similar, but Netflixs original content strategy is delivering it a competitive advantage, both in terms of being able to differentiate and in terms of accounting. Of course, the music and TV businesses are dramatically different and Spotify cannot simply do a Netflix. Nonetheless, Netflix builds a compelling case for original content strategy. The record labels are undoubtedly wary of streaming services becoming record labels themselves, but this might just be Spotifys route to profitability.

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The newest and promised to be greatest show ever is soon to open in Samoa at Tuanaimato.

Welcome to the 2017 edition of The Magic Circus of Samoa!

A host of Samoas greatest circus stars from Jugglers, acrobats, high-wire artists, magicians, clowns and trapeze artists together with unbelievable exotic acts from India, Manipur, Ethiopia and Canada will leave audiences spellbound starting Friday 10 February, under the gigantic Circus tent!

But Samoa get ready for something truly unique and only something The Magic Circus of Samoa can bring.

Its the one and only, the Guinness World book of Records, the tallest living man in the world today.

Sultan Kosen is coming to Samoa! He will arrive during the first week of February all the way from Turkey to be part of the show.

Towering at over 8 ft.  4 in. in height (2.54m) there no one in the world even close to this amazing height!

Tupai Bruno first visited Turkey four years ago and invited Sultan to join the circus.

Since then, the giant Sultan has starred with Tupai and the Magic Circus of Samoa in Tahiti, Seychelles and Mauritius.

Sultan has never been with another circus and is sure never to be as he loves The Samoan Circus and feels good with all the performers under Tupai Brunos care.

This is one show that cant be missed, says Tupai.

Theres never been any show in past of this extreme caliber, he said. Celebrated and toasted by the honorable Prime Minister of Samoa as a show that Samoa is truly proud of and that represents Samoa around the world in a great and positive way.

So, get ready to see the incredible unique Samoan circus, a special circus like none-other in the world. It belongs to Samoa the only nation in the Pacific to have their own, world-class Circus, said Tupai.

The circus is sponsored by: The Ministry of the Prime Minister, the Samoa Observer, Polynesia Line/Swire Shipping, Sheraton Samoa, Marias Pharmacy, Samoa Shipping Corp, Big Bear/Mr. Lava Lava, Treasure Box Jewelry Samoa, Apia Bottling, AA Rent-a-Car and Betham Bros.

Admission rates: Bleacher/Grandstand seats: Child $10, Adult $20, 1st Class Chairs: $25 all ages, VIP front ringside chairs: $35 all ages.

Showtimes: *Wed: 7pm *Thu: 7pm *Fri: 7pm *Sat: 3pm & 7:30pm *Sun: 6pm

4 weeks only in Samoa! American Samoa is next on the tour!

Advance sale tickets will go on sale in Apia as of Thursday 2 Feb. (Venue to be announced)
The government through the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development (M.W.C.S.D.) is moving to address the issue of child vendors in Samoa.

Through the Youth Employment Programme (Y.E.P.) funded by the U.N.D.P, a one-week training was held in partnership with Small Business Enterprise Centre (S.B.E.C.) for some of the families and parents of children who are often seen hawking goods on the streets of Apia.

Held at the Matagialalua hall in Apia, the training ended yesterday with the presentation of certificates to acknowledge their participation.

Nanai Sovala, A.C.E.O. of M.W.C.S.D. said the idea is to help vulnerable families in the community.

This is a new programme that aims at uplifting and enhancing the capacity of those people who are vulnerable so that they are able to tap in to other options to help them and their families, he said.

For example, throughout this whole week, we trained them on how to do other businesses such as hand printing materials, carving and other handicrafts.

Although this is small and new, we knew we had to start somewhere to help alleviate some of the issues we now face.

Nanai said they targeted families who are vulnerable socially, environmentally, physically and economically.

These are families who are struggling and this is our way to build up these people and lift up their standard of living.

Eleven families started the project. Only six graduated yesterday.

How did they select the first lot of families for the programme?

We have a database of all the people that we see as vulnerable. Weve done a number of surveys and thats where we get the information for this database, said Nanai.

Weve done research especially around the town area. But we are now extending it to cover the rural areas as well. In addition, there was also a study conducted by the I.L.O. so from that study, we identified up to eight hundred unemployed people. And we made our selection from there.

But I think the main criteria will have to be vulnerability. People who are vulnerable, socially, environmentally physically and economically.

Successful participants will receive monetary assistance to start their businesses. Each participant will get $3,500 but they will have to follow a strict criteria.

The most important thing is their commitment to the project and also the sustainability. They made proposals to us about the kind of businesses they want to start and we will not give them the whole amount of money.

We will give them some to start up their businesses and save the other to support them later on if they need more tools or other things for their businesses.

There is another criterion, which is making sure that they will attend all the trainings for them. Their participation is vital.

Lastly, Nanai believes that with anything in life, you always have to start somewhere. And for him, this is the start of many more programmes to tackle the issue of child vendors in Samoa.

This is a new and small programme and we still have a long way to go. But we are looking at expanding this programme. We are finalising the strategies and from there, we will see exactly where we can go from there.

The Ministry has been working in partnership with other agencies to come up with a lot of programmes to address the issue.

There is also another programme which will be announced next week to address this issue.

What we are doing here, is to start by helping out the parents and the families of the kids selling things on the streets, hoping that it will make a difference. Weve had a couple of programmes in the past as well.

But we are hoping that this will help the families in a lot of ways.

The main objective of this programme is to help and uplift the standard of living for the vulnerable people in the communities.

We are glad that we can make a difference in these peoples lives. I know opinions vary when asked about poverty in Samoa, but for us, and this is also from the point of view from the government is that, if we can raise peoples standard of living by one or two percent, thats really good.

So these people, if they continue and follow what they have been taught during the trainings and be committed to their own business, they will no longer have to struggle.

We will continue to support them and the businesses that they run to ensure that they are committed.

We will also keep motivating them and push them to continue for their own good.
And so the first session of Parliament for 2017 is done and dusted.

On Tuesday and Wednesday, Members of Parliament gathered at their makeshift precinct at Tuanaimato to pass the Supplementary Budget and deal with a couple of other pertinent issues.

Among them was the report by the Commission of Inquiry tasked to review the performance of the Land and Titles Court Judges as well as the response from the Judges themselves.

The issue has been well detailed and debated. Were not going to delve into it any further today. Suffice to say, we encourage you to take time to read the official response from the Land and Titles Court published on the front page of the paper you are reading and tell us what you think. (read story)

Our hope is that by the end of all this kerfuffle, you, members of the public, would be better informed about some of the challenges and that the grievances which led to this in the first place will be addressed to an extent. Its going to take time but lets believe for the best.

Away from the power struggle, another critical piece of legislation was advanced in Samoas halls of power. With the second reading of the Constitutional Amendment Bill (No. 2) 2016, Parliament is today a step closer to amending the Constitution to define Samoa as a Christian State.

As if thats not pretty obvious already with the many church buildings and Bible-bashing Christians misrepresenting God everywhere, the government wants to take Samoas Christianity further.

When Parliament discussed the bill, the views expressed made for some very interesting reading. Take for instance the explanation by Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi as to why this is necessary.

He said it is inadequate for Samoa to only have Christianity in the preamble of Samoas supreme law, describing it as inadequate.

Inadequate in terms of how Samoa as a Christian State is not included in the body of the Constitution. Instead it is in the cover and the preamble of the Constitution, not within the body of the Constitution, Tuilaepa said.

This shows that it is not part of the Constitution. This does not stand in Court as it is not included in the body of the Constitution.

Referring to the framers of our Constitution, Tuilaepa said that perhaps our ancestors were not thinking about the challenges of today when they wrote the Constitution. And because they did not include Christianity in the body of the Constitution, weve been fooling God all this time.

Listen to him again: This means that we have been misled all these years. And every time we say that Samoa is founded on God because it is in within our Constitution, God mustve had a good laugh and though that we have been fooling him.

And it has been more than 50 years since we have been fooling God, because this is not in the body of our Constitution.

Now hang on a second. Is P.M. Tuilaepa accusing our ancestors of fooling God and misleading us? What is he saying?

As far as we are concerned, the Constitution was fine as it was. And if its not broken, dont try to fix it.

Besides Christianity is not supposed to be something you keep in a book. It is a lifestyle that is supposed to honour God and to love our fellow mankind on a daily basis.

If anything, the only people who have been misleading other people are Bible bashing and scripture quoting Christians whose behaviour is anything but.

We see them everyday  some in government and Parliament. We hear them espousing this and that Biblical principle and yet they are downright hypocrites because their behaviour does not reflect what they are saying. Their words therefore become empty rhetoric we should all ignore.

Dont get us wrong. We dont oppose Samoa becoming a Christian state.

The decision is not necessarily a bad thing and when the actions of this country follow our declaration it can be a most wonderful development.

But lets stop kidding ourselves.

Samoa today is a mess. Thats because the leaders have allowed corruption and abuse of power to flourish. And enshrining Christianity in our Constitution does not weed out the corruption, abuse and collusion weve been talking about for years which continues to hurt our people on a daily basis.

The fact is Christianity is not supposed to be a label you wear.

It is a daily lifestyle that reflects a persons intimate relationship with his God. Its a personal matter that you dont need to shout from the rooftop.

Anybody can claim to be a Christian, which is probably the biggest problem in Samoa today. But its their integrity and actions which prove who they really are. And thats what matters.

By all means, go ahead and change the Constitution  even though wed prefer it to be left alone. But lets try and walk the talk. Our leaders - including church leaders - need to be serious and lead by example in all facets of life. Stop being hypocrites.

If Samoa wants to make a point about being a Christian state, our behaviour would do a better job to reflect that than another change to the Constitution.

Lets not forget that God is not mocked. He knows and he sees through everything. Including these political, feel good but untruthful statements.

Thats what we think anyway? What about you?

Share your thoughts with us!

Have a peaceful Sunday Samoa, God bless!
The Office of the Attorney General has acquired the services of a highly-rated independent prosecutor to pursue the second batch of charges against the suspended Police Commissioner, Fuiavailili Egon Keil.

There are more than 200 charges filed against Fuiava by the Ministry of Police in relation to fire arms and one of incite to murder.

The suspended Commissioner has vehemently denied the allegations through his lawyer, Leiataualesa Komisi Koria.

Yesterday, Attorney General, Lemalu Herman Retzlaff, told the Sunday Samoan that a New Zealand lawyer, Nigel Hampton QC, has been appointed to handle the hearing.

I can confirm that an independent prosecutor has been engaged to take full carriage of the charges against the suspended commissioner of police, said Lemalu.

He is Mr Nigel Hampton QC, a highly respected barrister of over 30 years experience."

He has been given the file sent to him directly from the N.P.O office and he will appear when the matter is called 20 February 2017.

Up until this point, lawyers from the National Prosecution Office had been handling the matter.

Towards the end of last year, Fuiavas legal team sought a decision by the Court, in particular Justice Lesatele Rapi Vaai, to access potential witnesses, Police records and documents in relation to the charges against him.

We will be entering a not guilty plea to all these charges, Leiataualesa said last year.

These proceedings come at a great cost of the public, great expense in terms of government resources as well as the time of this honorable Court. We feel that the charges against my client are baseless and without merit.

Mr. Hampton QC comes highly recommended.

He was the first New Zealand lawyer to work with the International Criminal Court (I.C.C.) in The Hague as an alternate member of the Disciplinary Appeals Board.

He originally became involved with the I.C.C. in 2007, when he also made history by becoming the first Disciplinary Commissioner of Counsel before the I.C.C., a newly created role at the time.

It was interesting because it helped create procedures and protocols and write surrounding rules around these bodies, he told the NZ Lawyer Magazine.

One highlight [was] meeting with counsel who are drawn from all around the world, not only from common law jurisdictions, but from civil law jurisdictions as wellIt was an interesting exercise to try and meld two quite different systems and try and create a discipline system that is coherent and able to be understood by both the common law and civil law.

It was 1960, and the self-professed country boy went to the big smoke of Christchurch to finish his education, without any idea about what he actually wanted to do.

Upon graduation in 1964, Hampton went on to work as a law clerk at local firm, the then R A Young Hunter & Co, later going into partnership there.

By 1988, he was out on his own working as a barrister. Although litigation was always his forte, as the years went by he became almost solely focused on the criminal aspect of it.

He has also had a stint as a Chief Justice of the Kingdom of Tonga from 1995-1997.
Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi has a message for the United States President, Donald John Trump.

In relation to his denial of climate change, Tuilaepa, who is a vocal advocate of climate change awareness in the Pacific, said the United States President cannot deny the truth.

Tuilaepa made the comments during his weekly media programme.

As a leader himself, Tuilaepa said he understands that in a democratic state, the power of the people will always prevail.

This is why he Trump cannot turn a blind eye to the negative impact of climate change on the Pacific  and to an extent the United States of America.

A leader cannot say that the country is not affected by climate change when everyone else in the community is facing it and living with the impact of climate change, Tuilaepa said.

The thing is up until now; they still havent fully recovered from the impact of Cyclone Katrina."

Not only that, I America they have had a lot of natural disasters. A lot of lives have been affected because of heavy rainfall and strong tornados.

As rich and powerful as he is, Tuilaepa said Trump will also be affected by climate change.

Imagine having a strong tornado during the cold weather, he said.

This can affect the power outrage. Even if you stay in a hundred-storey apartment, when the elevators dont work, you will be stuck there and many lives can be affected too.

There are a lot of things that we dont know.

Asked about the threat by Trump to withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement, Tuilaepa said this is unlikely to happen.

The truth is that can never happen. There is that phrase we always hear, common sense will finally prevail."

You see Trump did not introduce anything new to do for America as President.

Tuilaepa also took a trip down memory lane, reflecting on the aftermath of the First World War from 1914-1918.

People thought that was the greatest war ever. But the truth is, if it werent for the United States of America, the war wouldnt have finished."

So after the war, the leaders and the government of America set up an Isolationist Policy."

Isolationists advocated non-involvement in European and Asian conflicts and non-entanglement in international politics."

Their main focus was to put America First. And that is what Trump is trying to do again."

He is planning on making America first again."

But during the Second World War, they (America) tried to stay away from it. But they ended up involving themselves because of the Pearl Harbor incident."

You see, they thought that just because stayed away, they wouldnt end up being involved. But America fought as well. It was there that they (U.S) realised, that they have a duty to save the world. And theyve been doing all these years.

And now Trump is bringing this up again, said Tuilaepa.

He is fighting to put America first. But how can he do it? "

That is just a dream; a stupid dream that can easily fool people. That is why a lot of people voted for him."

But the truth is, most of the people America will never accept it because they understand the effects and impacts of climate change on them.
The Land and Titles Court has issued a response to a Parliament-ordered Commission of Inquiry to investigate the work of its Judges.

The response is signed by the Chief Justice, His Honour Patu Tiavaasue Falefatu Sapolu and the President of the Land and Titles Court, Fepuleai Attila Ropati.

It was tabled in Parliament last week.

A copy of the response has been obtained by the Sunday Samoan.

We apologise for not appearing as called before the Committee but we were mindful that we would have our day in Parliament when this reply is submitted as we do maintain our respect for the institution of Parliament, the conclusion of the report reads.

We reiterate our gratitude because despite any perceived differences that have arisen during the course of this matter the initiative to improve processes for the betterment of the country is paramount in all of our efforts. It is our fervent hope that the Lands and Titles Court will receive much needed support and assistance as a result of this great endeavour.

The report was the subject of a Ministerial statement by Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi on Tuesday when Parliament reconvened for the first time this year.

Prime Minister Tuilaepa criticised the decision by the Land and Titles Court to abstain.

They were afraid, they were embarrassed to be questioned about their reckless handling of matters pertaining to the people of this nation, Tuilaepa said, adding their refusal is a contempt of the dignity of Parliament.

The Inquiry was headed by Member of Parliament and Chairman, Lopaoo Natanielu Mua. Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Nafoitoa Talaimanu Keti was the Vice Chairman with members including Lauofo Fonotoe Meredith, Aliimalemanu Alofa Tuuau, Ili Setefano Taateo, Faaulusau Rosa Stowers and Faumuina Wayne Fong.

In its report to Parliament, the Commission noted its disappointment and frustrations about the decision by the Chief Justice and Judges not to cooperate.

The Commission noted that under the Legislative Assembly Powers and Privileges Ordinance 1960, they could have summoned all the Judges to appear but they chose not to out of respect.

In the end, the Commission went ahead and opened the opportunity to members of the public to express their opinions about the performance of the Court.

The Panel received 45 written submissions. More than 150 people delivered verbal submissions.

In its report, the Commission makes 30 recommendations on ways to address concerns raised by members of the public, especially in relation to ways to speed up the process.

The Inquiry recommends a restructure of the Land and Titles Court. As part of this, Parliament has been urged to appoint two Vice Presidents of the Land and Titles Court to help the President.

The Commission is also calling for a legal time frame on decisions. For instance, a verbal ruling on all Court matters must be delivered within three days when the hearing ends.

Written rulings are urged to be delivered within seven days from the end of a matter.

The Inquiry recommended ways to address questions of bias and abuse. This includes a recommendation to stop the practice of Judges accepting food, gifts and other material things from parties during inspection visits.

Parliament was also asked to look into Rules and Procedures for all Judges to follow in the conduct of their duties. In relation to the question of adjournments, the Inquiry recommends a period of no more than 6 months if a matter must be adjourned.

When it comes to parties in a hearing, the Inquiry recommends that there must be at least three leaders at one time so a hearing is not delayed when one of them doesnt turn up.

The following is the response from the Land and Titles Court:

JUDICIARYS REPLY TO THE REPORT OF THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMISSION OF INQUIRY INTO THE LAND AND TITLES COURT

FOREWORD:

Gratitude is extended to Government for the initiative that resulted in the appointment of the Parliamentary Commission of Inquiry ("the Committee") which sought to identify ways to recommend improvements to processes and procedures at the Lands and Titles Court. We also commend the Commission Members and their assistants as well as members of the public who were able to contribute to this extensive inquiry. This is an important undertaking to accord priority to the Land and Titles Court as it affects all Samoans today and future generations. This initiative from the Executive and Parliament is highly appropriate. The Judiciary also wishes the same for this very important Court and the challenges it faces as well as according priority to its role in Safeguarding the heritage of all Samoans that is in their lands and titles.

Clarification: We would like to clarify the position of the Judiciary in its decision not to participate in the Commission's inquiry as requested and as has been widely reported in the mainstream media. We were weary of criticisms and queries over Court decisions that may inevitably arise over the course of the Commission's hearings. It is our belief that the Court is not answerable to anyone over its judgements. Our concern was over the independence of these judgements as they are the result of either unanimous decisions of a panel of judges or a majority decision of a panel of judges and not a decision of one judge alone. The current process avails many statutory options for redress if parties feel aggrieved by decisions - parties may appeal decisions of the LTC and if they are still dissatisfied there is the option of a judicial review with the Supreme Court and then finally with the Court of Appeal.

Response to Recommendations:

RECOMMENDATION 1: Officially recognise the Judicial Privilege of the LTC which handles matters on our customary land and titles to be consistent with the recognition awarded the Supreme Court. This is an important recommendation but detailed steps of implementation must be in place as the 2 courts operate differently. The reason for according both Courts the same priority must be clarified first - if it is due to resources not being evenly distributed then the first phase should be to accord Judges of the LTC the same salaries and offices plus other entitlements as Supreme Court judges if there are enough funds.

RECOMMENDATION 2: Appointment of Deputy Presidents This is important as there is an increase in applications for leave to appeal of the decisions of the Court of First instance. There are a lot of appeal cases and there are also cases where the President has conflicts of interest as well as urgency requests from the public that need immediate addressing.

This recommendation is highly supported for implementation in the next Financial Year.

RECOMMENDATION 3: Verbal Court Rulings

This recommendation may be difficult to Implement as some cases are complex and require lengthy deliberations or there is evidence yet to be submitted by an agency or other entity. Judges may also be facing a heavy work load that may result in delays. If this time period is legislated for then it may result in rushed judgements.

RECOMMENDATION 4: Written Court Rulings

We also have reservations over this recommendation as there are cases that are complex. Matters such as determining the authority over a title is highly contentious and requires extensive review of genealogies, history and evidence submitted against court records. We suggest 3 months as a guiding principle in the Court Rules and the discretionary opportunity for leave for extension to be granted to a Judge by the President in the submission of a written judgement based on exemplary grounds. The cases that were previously heard in the Court of Appeal by judges who are no longer sewing in the courts will be accorded priority.

RECOMMENDATION 5: Rulings of the Court of First Instance

There is no authority under the 1981 act for the Court of First Instance to reverse a decision of the

Court of Appeal so this should never occur. We have no record of such a case unless it's a case where the Court of Appeal overturned a decision of the court of First Instance.

RECOMMENDATION 6: Allegations against Samoan Judges

Accusations against judges are referred to the Judicial Services Commission unless they are not referred then the JSC will not be aware of such accusations. If a party feels that there has been dishonesty, corruption, or injustice on the pan of a judge in the court of first instance then they may lodge an appeal. Additionally, if they feel the same with the Court of Appeal outcome, they are free to seek a judicial review in the Supreme Court under Articles 4 and 9 of the constitution.

Traditional gifts offered to judges during field visits are no longer allowed or accepted. The judges are given allowances for food during lengthy inspections. it should be a criminal offence for parties or any person to offer traditional gifts as a deterrent as the judges are not inviting such practice.

The recommendation for usage of maps (mapinfo) is noted but there are still cases where field visits for determination of boundaries is still required.

RECOMMENDATION 7: Guidelines for Samoan Judges

The compilation of Court Rules for the LTC is a work currently in process.

RECOMMENDATION 8: Due date for adjourned businesses

The LTC schedule and adjournments are based on its Savali notices - final dates are based on requests from parties particularly those coming in from overseas.

RECOMMENDATION 9: Fees for adjourned cases

This is important particularly to deter adjournments. There is currently a $500 adjournment fee but there should be a provision in the Rules for a discretionary power to impose some financial compensation to other parties for inconvenience. However, it should still be noted that there are unavoidable circumstances that affect all such as untimely death that should be exempted from this fee. The Court needs to be informed of such exceptions as soon as possible so other parties are pre warned of an adjournment. Government should also consider the impact of official trips overseas for those holding high offices who use these trips as grounds to adjourn their family court cases. There is now a requirement where there must be two other party leaders who must reside in Samoa so as to lessen the inconvenience of these adjournments for all. Possible exemptions would be holders of sao titles in Cabinet but all other official trips would be subject to the payment of the fee as recommended by the Commission as other office holders can always be substituted in their official capacities for these trips.

RECOMMENDATION 10: Judges Conflict of Interest It is difficult to legislate what constitutes conflicts of interests particularly the limited time in which to determine it. Current practice is that the Registrar distributes a list of cases to all judges in advance so they may declare their conflicts of interest if any beforehand so that the sitting schedule can be altered in light of any claims. This works in a way but there is always the chance of a conflict only becoming evident on the day of the case when a witness that is not named in the files gives evidence and a sitting judge suddenly finds that he is indeed in a conflicted position.

RECOMMENDATION 11: Declared conflict of interest This is the case at present. Guidelines are now in place and refresher trainings are being done for the judges.

RECOMMENDATION 12: Judges connection to cases There is now a policy in place where judges are not allowed to lead a party in court. However for cases where they are directly involved such as matters where a title they may hold is being petitioned for revocation, banishment from a village, location of residence disputes pertaining to a judge then there is that discretion where he may be permitted to appear in court.

RECOMMENDATION 13: Judicial Services Commission & Special Advisory Committee for LTC An amendment to the Act as recommended is supported for the establishment of a Judicial Services Commission for the LTC to comprise of the Chief Justice, President of the LTC and the Attorney General. This entity can review complaints lodged against judges to be determined by the President who shall have the authority to review and address complaints without referral to this entity should he determine it trivial. The President shall have the discretion to refer complaints to either the Chief Justice or the Commission as he sees fit. A special committee is not necessary as the only issue is administrative matters for the LTC - other matters are deliberated in Court. Additional Committees and Commissions will only elevate the workload for members when they are already busy and may result in duplication of duties if the functions become unclear. A similar special committee was established around the 19905 and they were responsible for interviewing applicants for judge positions. They received complaints over this as some felt it was the duty of the Judicial Services Commission to conduct selection of judges particularly as the Chief Justice was also the President of the Lands and Titles Court at the time. Eventually this function reverted to the JSC on the logic that no one understands the nature of the work of judges like judges themselves.

RECOMMENDATION 14: Employment of Judges

It is important for potential judges to be actively involved in their respective village affairs.

However, for the age restriction it is important to he flexible as some people make the best judgements at 70 years of age whilst some at S0 years already show signs of inconsistency. There is also concern over periodic appointments of judges as it may influence independence - judges should never be made to feel compromised when they near the time of expiry for their appointments.

In line with the recommendation to have equal parity with their Supreme Court counterparts, the conditions of appointment should therefore also be the same whilst the monitoring of performance be left to the new JSC as recommended.

Judges of the LTC need wisdom to discern the various arguments by parties in order to reach a fair and just decision. Integrity, hard work and legal knowledge is essential but the overriding criterion is wisdom in culture and tradition particularly of everyday life in the villages. The latter being of utmost importance as legal qualifications are of no use to this Court without cultural wisdom.

RECOMMENDATION 15: Additional Powers of the President

This is important but a proper framework to implement it needs to be reviewed. First, the definition of what constitutes errors and omissions need to be spelt out as it is too general. Second, it is unethical for the President to review his own decisions. Thirdly, it will increase the Presidents workload as it is difficult to review decisions made previously with times to lodge appeals already lapsed.

There are 2 parts to the recommendation - first, petition the Supreme Court for judicial review and for all parties to past cases present. Alternatively, the Land and Titles Act 1981 be amended to allow for a Supreme Court judge with LTC experience to conduct the review within the framework of the LTC where lawyers are not required except for parties to disputed cases.

This is preferable as it is less costly for parties and the actual decision is reviewed whereas the judicial review process in the Supreme Court is expensive and is confined only to reviewing if the rights protected in the Constitution are breached.

There are Supreme Court justices nearing retirement who have vast experience in judicial review that can be utilised for reviewing disputed decisions in the LTC setting. It is important to have another avenue to address disputed decisions or decisions made in error.

RECOMMENDATION 16: Judicial Review RESPONSE: Every application for a judicial review filed against a ruling of the Court of Appeal of the LTC that breaches any fundamental rights and freedoms stated under the Constitution are to be referred to the Supreme Court because it is their sole duty to interpret the Constitution. There is an additional opportunity to file an application to the Court of Appeal if they are not satisfied with the judicial review procedure by the Supreme Court. Based on these grounds, it is not right to remove the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court from conducting judicial review because it is inherent to the Supreme Court.

RECOMMENDATION 17: Mediation. RESPONSE: Deputy Registrars conducting mediations were trained under an educational programme conducted by mediators from the Federal Court of Australia and a Professor of Law. There is also another educational programme for mediators scheduled for April and will be conducted by Judge Kandakasi of PNG. Conducting mediations on the day of the hearing is impractical because the court hearing may delayed due to a delayed decision from mediation where parties may not show up, which is why the Current process is seen to be more effective because it gives parties enough time to consider an investigation before a resolution from mediation can be made.

RECOMMENDATION 18: Written submissions RESPONSE: The Registrar has already submitted a public notice on the subject matter but it should be three working days from the day of the investigation to avoid suspicion if written submissions are lodged early.

RECOMMENDATION 19: Leader of Party to Proceedings RESPONSE: The Registrar has already issued a public notice which states that for every Party to a case there should be an identified Leader and two assistants who should reside permanently in Samoa.

RECOMMENDATION 20: Forms RESPONSE: The Registrar will take the matter into consideration.

RECOMMENDATION 21: Bestowment Registration Forms RESPONSE: This recommendation is very significant because there are those who have travelled overseas to conduct bestowment ceremonies there. There have been cases that were discussed well after the fact. Not only this, there are ceremonies that have allowed for proxies to accept titles on behalf of others. It is noted that these illegal practices are on the rise and village representatives seem to be at the fore.

RECOMMENDATION 22: Family High Chief (Sao) RESPONSE: There is a provision in the law which provides for the right of a Sao or heirs to remove a title from anyone but there is no clear provision on service (monotaga). The recommendation to limit holders of Sa'o titles to 5x is commendable yet there are other matters to be considered as not all titles are equal with respect to the lineages that have rights to it. There should be discretionary powers to determine the numbers on a case by case basis.

RECOMMENDATION 23: Registration of the Trustee of Customary Land (Pulefaamau)

RESPONSE: The Registrar will take the matter into consideration.

RECOMMENDATION 24: Continuous Capacity Building for Samoan Judges

RESPONSE: Since 1922, several workshops were held to train Judges of the land and Titles Court such as the PJEP (Pacific Judicial Educational Programme) and PJDP (Pacific Judicial Development Programme). In addition, the former President also conducted several programs where Judges travelled overseas to expand their judicial knowledge.

In addition, there are consultations scheduled for the 26th  27th of January 2017 to revise guidelines and to allocate matters of first priority which means that the LTC is continuously working on Improving its service.

RECOMMENDATION 25: Publicising of LTC matters

RESPONSE: The recommendation is noted. The Ministry has moved to advertise its sitting schedules and other notices in the Palemene Newspaper. Additionally, an application will be submitted to the Public Service Commission and the Ministry of Finance to grant IT specialist at an ACEO level to work on creating a website for the Ministry so that all court matters are to be updated and should be found on the website dally.

RECOMMENDATION 26: Research Division for the LTC.

RESPONSE: The recommendation is very important because it is a must to submit a well prepared report in a timely manner to Judges before consideration of any matter.

The President also needs a full report which includes all information possible for appeal cases daily. A submission has been forwarded to the Public Service Commission and we are awaiting a response.

RECOMMENDATION 27: Audio Recorders

RESPONSE: Audio Recorders have already been installed in both Mulinuu and Tuasivi.

RECOMMENDATION 28: Tuasivi Office.

RESPONSE: We strongly support the recommendation. Consultations are currently in the pipeline to discuss building a new Court office in Salelologa.

RECOMMENDATION Z9: Institutional Strengthening Project (ISP)

RESPONSE: The Registrar will negotiate with the Ministry of Finance to initiate such 3 project.

RECOMMENDATION 30: Consultation Rooms RESPONSE: The recommendation is very important because with the current set up, other parties can overhear what others are discussing. This is why this recommendation is of great use because there is a need for (a] separate room(s) and the need for a bigger Court precinct for the LTC alone. As it currently stands, there are only 4 court rooms at Mulinuu, the fact ls, if the Court of First instance and the Court of Appeal sit at the same time, there is no room available for mediations and for most vital matters pertaining to high chief titles, current rooms cannot accommodate for those matters. If possible, mediation can be done within any government building available such as the old building where the old Court house was and build two appropriate rooms in it for mediation purposes and if conflict ever ensues from such mediation, the Police Office is in close proximity.

Other Recommendations: Recommendation A: The LTC should recognize the support of Consultants. RESPONSE: The Court does not interfere with the services offered by consultants to parties in terms of written submissions and we are uncertain about a reason for prioritizing them as they are business people. For Information purposes, written submissions prepared by such consultants are too lengthy and contain excess details that are not relevant to cases. They are lengthy to justify the expensive costs and this only benefits the consultant whilst the families are burdened with payment and judges struggle with reading through the nonsense.

Recommendation B: All matters pertaining to Land and Titles in Savaii should be conducted at the Court House in Tuasivi. RESPONSE: This is not a new issue but there are some parties who requested for their matters to be heard at Mulinuu because most of those involved live in Upolu. The main obstacle is that the Ministry does not have funding to pay for the President to travel to Savaii to hold hearings there - there is insufficient funding for transportation, accommodation and related costs of hearing appeals at Tuasivi. There are 2 ways to address this and that is to approve construction of a proper residence for judges at Savaii or inject sufficient funding in the next financial years budget to support related costs of holding hearings at Tuasivi.

Recommendations from the Judiciary: To change the usage of the dentition Samoan Judge that is currently used within the Law to just Judge of the Land and Titles Court because it is a remnant of colonial times when there were European Judges presiding. As of today, all Judges of LTC, Supreme Court and District Court are Samoans.

Conclusion: That concludes the reply from the Judiciary on the recommendations as per motion approved by the House with our firm belief that we have addressed all issues of concern. We apologise for not appearing as called before the Committee but we were mindful that we would have our day in Parliament when this reply is submitted as we do maintain our respect for the institution of Parliament.

We reiterate our gratitude because despite any perceived differences that have arisen during the course of this matter the initiative to improve processes for the betterment of the country is paramount in all of our efforts. It is our fervent hope that the Lands and Titles Court will receive much needed support and assistance as a result of this great endeavour.

May the Lord richly bless you, Honourable Speaker of the House, Leader of the House, Members of Parliament and staff.

Patu Tiavaasue Falefatu M Sapolu

CHIEF JUSTICE

Fepuleai Letufuga Attila M Ropati

PRESIDENT OF LAND AND TITLES COURT
BEIJING (AP)  In China, Twitter is blocked but fake tweets by @realdonaldtrump look set to become the latest internet sensation.

Users are flocking to websites that let them generate images of fake tweets that look just like those sent from U.S. President Donald Trump's distinctive personal Twitter account  replete with his avatar and a real-time timestamp.

 @realdonaldtrump would like to wish you a Happy Chinese New Year, says one, referencing the holiday that falls this year on Saturday.

 @realdonaldtrump thinks Shanghai Jiaotong University is better than its crosstown rival.

 @realdonaldtrump wants to buy a jianbing (typical Chinese street food) and wants Mexico to pay for it.

 @realdonaldtrump's "favorite boy band" is the South Korean group GOT7: "They are so cute!"

Jike, a Shanghai-based startup running one such website, said Thursday that in just four days, users have created more than a million fake @realdonaldtrump tweets in Chinese and English, often mimicking Trump's tone and fondness for exclamation marks. They are being shared on Chinese social networking sites to crack jokes, tout online goods and send Lunar New Year greetings.

The fake Trump tweets circulating on Chinese social media reflect how Trump's use of Twitter is even seeping into the popular consciousness of a country where Twitter has been blocked by censors for years.

Although Trump's comments on trade, Taiwan and the South China Sea have raised concerns in Beijing, there is a certain fascination about Trump among some young Chinese who see him as a symbol of American showmanship but overlook his anti-China rhetoric, at least for now.

"For young Chinese people, Trump has an extremely iconic image," said Lin Hang, a co-founder of Jike. "His Twitter content can easily spark conversations in China. His language style is very recognizable. So when netizens put their everyday life musings or roasts in his voice, it provokes a certain reaction, a certain resonance."

Jike, founded by Chinese who studied at the University of Michigan and worked at Google, rolled out the website on Sunday, Lin said. Employees at the startup, which mainly produces a personalized news app, started sharing it with their friends that night as a joke.

It spread quickly from China's highly educated, English-speaking internet circles to other social groups and smaller cities, Lin said.

Despite tight government controls over online discourse, particularly surrounding sensitive domestic news, China's 700 million internet users have a freewheeling web culture that churns out a running stream of commentary, memes and wisecracks about international news.

Along with Twitter, other foreign social media sites such as Facebook and YouTube are also inaccessible within China. But many Chinese use software to circumvent the ban and are aware of foreign services like Twitter even if they do not log on regularly.

Trump's tweeting habits have also been widely covered in the Chinese media. In a commentary this month, the official Xinhua News Agency warned against Trump's "obsession with Twitter foreign policy" after he criticized China in a series of tweets about Taiwan, North Korea and trade.

Vincent Zhang, a 37-year-old employee at Jiayuan, a Chinese online dating site, said the flurry of fake Trump tweets he saw his friends sharing showed that many young Chinese had a relatively neutral view of Trump and saw him as a showman.

"Now it's a lot of jokes because the trade issues don't feel like they affect our ordinary lives," Zhang said. "If he made it much more difficult to get U.S. visas, then you will see a lot of people insult him."
San Diegos Grand Del Mar, which two years ago was sold to Fairmont Hotels, is regarded as the top luxury hotel in the country, thanks to users of the TripAdvisor website.

The only other San Diego County property to make it onto TripAdvisors top 25 luxury resorts in the nation was Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa in Rancho Santa Fe, ranked at No. 17.

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TripAdvisors 2017 Travelers Choice awards rely on millions of reviews collected in a single year from TripAdvisor travelers worldwide. The top properties are distinguished by remarkable remarkable service, value and quality.

The 400-acre resort, which last year was ranked in the second spot, was also one of four hotels in the county to earn AAAs annual five-diamond rankings, according to an announcement Friday by the Automobile Club of Southern California.

Joining the Carmel Valley hotel are the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort in Carlsbad, the Lodge at Torrey Pines and Rancho Valencia. They are among just 14 Southern California hotels to be awarded five-diamond rankings. Addison, the fine dining restaurant at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar, was just one of two restaurants in Southern California to earn the five-diamond distinction.

Unlike TripAdvisor, AAA hands out its top rankings based on multiple, unannounced visits and inspections. Hotel inspectors have a list of more than 100 items to evaluate, looking at everything from landscaping to the number of extra pillows.

Also released Friday was its list of four-diamond hotels. In San Diego County, 26 hotels and resorts qualified for a four-diamond rating. In addition, 10 restaurants in the county were awarded four diamonds.

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lori.weisberg@sduniontribune.com (619) 293-2251

Twitter: @loriweisberg
Three members of the San Miguel Consolidated Fire District Board were served with notices this week of a recall drive against them.

Bob Cederdahl, a San Miguel board member from 1992 to 1996, is trying to remove Theresa McKenna, Mike Vacio and Jim Ek from their seats on the board. All three were elected in 2014.

Cederdahl, who lives on Mount Helix, was one of 12 people who signed the required notice-of-intent-to-recall petition with the San Diego County Registrar of Voters.

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The board has shown little regard for the taxpayers of the San Miguel Fire Protection District, Cederdahl said. They are self serving; they no longer serve the taxpayers of San Miguel. The citizens do not have a representative, fair minded board.

McKenna, Vacio and Ek were served on Wednesday, and they have seven days to respond.

Cederdahl and other supporters of the recall will need to gather nearly 10,000 signatures per director in order to qualify for an election.

Cederdahl cited several reasons for the recall effort:

The three directors voted last July to get out of a contract with the state of California fire agency a year early. San Miguel handed off control of operations to Cal Fire in 2012 after the district ran into budget problems, but voted to return to stand alone.

The three directors refused to seek a third-party, independent study on the cost benefits of leaving Cal Fire. Directors voted for an in-house study which Cederdahl says is inaccurate.

The board recently considered a seven-year agreement with Heartland Fire for dispatch services that will cost taxpayers $867,000 for the first year. Cederdahl criticized the board for not looking for a more cost-effective 911 dispatch service.

The San Miguel Consolidated Fire Protection District covers 47 square miles, serving Casa de Oro, Spring Valley, Grossmont/Mount Helix, Rancho San Diego, Dehesa, Crest, Bostonia and unincorporated areas in El Cajon and La Mesa. The district was formed in 1988. It responds to nearly 11,000 fire and medical emergencies annually.


In suburban North County, many think of Elfin Forest, Harmony Grove and Eden Valley as hidden jewels  country neighborhoods tucked between San Marcos and Escondido.

Though two of the quiet communities are just a few miles from busy business parks, subdivisions and freeways  not to mention Cal State San Marcos and the Sprinter line  residents see them as light years away and have adopted a motto of keepin it rural. This is where families have backyard chicken coops and horse trails, and where trees form a natural canopy over winding two-lane roads.

But development is looming in the green pastures and scrub-covered hills, with more than 1,500 homes planned or under construction. Not surprisingly, many neighbors arent happy about it.

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They see these projects going up and are very scared that their way of life is done away with, said J.P Theberge, a member of the Elfin Forest/Harmony Grove Town Council.

Developers say the projects will provide high-quality housing desperately needed in San Diego County, where building restrictions are so tight  and land is so scarce  that many families cant find a place to buy without a grueling commute.

Rather than build out in Valley Center and Descanso, this project is in the center of the job base, and at the heart of existing infrastructure, said Lance Waite, whose Integral Communities is seeking county approval for a 326-home project called Valiano that would be built on 238 acres in Eden Valley and Harmony Grove. There are very few locations in the county where single-family detached (homes) can be built  especially that close to jobs.

Construction has already begun on nearby Harmony Grove Village, where 742 homes are planned.

A FedEx delivery man arrives Tuesday at one of the new homes in Harmony Grove Village. (Peggy Peattie/San Diego Union-Tribune)

Valiano and another proposed development called Harmony Grove Village South are still mired in the county planning process. Both would require amendments to the county General Plan, because they call for far more homes than current zoning allows.

Neighbors, preparing for a fight, have begun raising money and hired two law firms to stave off the projects, Theberge said. When local residents get home from work, they comb through county documents for information, and  in between posting about flooded roads and pictures of lost roosters  share development updates on the community Facebook page.

Theberge said the community has already accepted Harmony Grove Village, which was designed so that denser homes are closer to the middle of the master-planned neighborhood and larger homes and lots are around the edges. As per the county, 230 building permits have been issued and 30 homes have been OKd for occupancy.

Valiano, however, is another story. The projects draft environmental impact report is out for public review, and the comment period ends Monday.

Waite said he has listened to neighbors, taken part in nearly three dozen meetings and reduced the size of the project from 470 homes to 326. Nearly a third of that land would be set aside as open or agricultural space, and another 70 acres would be preserved elsewhere as mitigation.

We are advocates for housing, Waite said. We take a lot of grief for it.

He noted that the development will provide trails and open space, and that some of the homes will be on parcels large enough to keep horses. The project requires no widening of two-lane Country Club Drive, although there would be improvements to the intersection of Country Club and Auto Park Way.

If all hurdles are cleared, heavy equipment could be on site as soon as spring or summer 2018, and construction would be done in phases over two to four years.

Elfin Forest resident JP Theberge walks in one of the pastoral areas eyed for possible development in Eden Valley. (Peggy Peattie/San Diego Union-Tribune)

Theberge, the town council member, said opponents of the project arent being driven by NIMBYism, but have real concerns about traffic and safety, particularly in an area prone to wildfires.

With no plan to widen the main roads into the area, they fear a big fire could force thousands, instead of hundreds, to evacuate along narrow two-lane access points.

The (2014) Cocos fire was mayhem here, people trying to get horses and animals out, he said. There will be fires, it is inevitable.

The communities knew they would have to accept some sort of development  and did so with Harmony Grove Village. That should be enough, he added.

We are not fighting inevitable development, Theberge said. We dont see it like that.

Harmony Grove Village South calls for 453 single- and multi-family residential units within 229 structures on 111 acres south of Harmony Grove Road near Country Club Drive.

That projects draft environmental impact report should be out in a few months.

Developer David Kovach wasnt available for an interview Friday, but said in an email to the Union-Tribune that the homes would a compelling contribution to the larger market place.

Jon Dummer  who grew up on eight acres in Harmony Grove, and later returned as an adult and built a home for his family  said he is devoted to fighting more subdivisions.

Dummer said hes been watching similar battles in North County, and donated to the fight against Lilac Hills, a massive development planned near Valley Center that was defeated in the November election.

We will all stand or fall as a group, Dummer said. If we can come together and support each other, I think we can pull it off.

County documents on the Valiano and Harmony Grove South projects are available on the countys website.

teri.figueroa@sduniontribune.com

Twitter: @TeriFigueroaUT
A dispute over school board minutes in a tiny North County school district has raised questions about how elected bodies document their proceedings in the digital age and share that information with the public.

For several years, the Vallecitos School District in Rainbow recorded its board meetings on audiotape and then transcribed the recording into written minutes, making both formats available to the public.

The district stopped the audio recordings in 2013, saying theyd become too cumbersome. Former school board member Bill Harding now says that  without video or audio recordings of the meetings  its harder for the public to keep tabs on how the district is operating.

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California law doesnt require school districts to record meeting proceedings, said Superintendent David Jones.

What were doing now is completely fine, and in line with what the Brown Act requires, he said, adding that he doesnt plan to resume recording meetings. Theres not necessarily a high need or reason to do so.

He said he consulted Vallecitos legal counsel  Gil Abed, a partner with the Artiano Shinoff law firm  and confirmed that the district is under no obligation to record meetings.

Thats correct, said David Snyder, executive director of First Amendment Coalition, but public agencies should strive to do more than the minimum.

The Brown Act doesnt really say anything about how or if meetings should be recorded, unfortunately in my view, he said. The best practice would be to record, and to also do meeting minutes.

Jones said the district discontinued recording the meetings because the board secretary spent hours typing the minutes and was unable to transcribe them accurately.

Her English skills were not that good, and I was finding a lot of discrepancies between what she typed and what was said, he said. I would spend a good two or three hours, cleaning up the minutes, cleaning up the grammar, and it was a waste of time. It wasnt efficient, it was frustrating, and the minutes were not accurate.

Instead, he said, he offered to take minutes during the meeting, and submit his written record to the board for approval.

The school district is not alone in that practice. A review by the San Diego County Office of Education found that nearly a quarter of school districts in the county dont record meetings at all, and take only written minutes.

Thirty-eight of the 42 school districts in the county responded to the SDCOE survey. Of those, nine districts said they record their minutes only in writing, while 22 districts audio-taped their meetings, two videotaped them, and five produced both audio and video recordings, SDCOE spokesman Stacy Brandt said.

With two schools, a preschool and just 375 students, the tiny Vallecitos district has had its share of contention. A wrongful termination lawsuit filed in 2014 by its former business manager, Patricia Bell, alleges that the superintendent failed to notify parents for nearly a year that the district was facing sanctions from the state due to poor performance.

Harding has argued that, because of those failures, the board owes it to residents to make its proceedings more accessible.

Board member Mike Darnley said he agreed with Harding that recording the minutes is a good idea, but hes worried that doing so could actually suppress public participation at the meetings.

We have a very small school district, Darnley said. Our concern was that we have trouble getting people to serve on our board, we have trouble having parents and people coming to share. We were concerned that having a video camera in a very small boardroom would discourage people.

In a December interview, Darnley said he was open to Hardings request to resume recording board meetings.

We took his concerns to heart, Darnley said. We will most likely be audio recording the meetings.

By January, however, that had changed. Darnley wrote in an email to Harding that the board had discussed audio recordings and the consensus right now seems to be that we will hold off.

Snyder said he encourages public agencies to record meetings, especially since digital technology has made it easier to both record and store information.

The point of the Brown Act is to provide as much access as is reasonably possible, and the more the better, he said. Our democracy functions better when people are able to see what their representatives are doing.

Other districts that have traditionally relied on written minutes have taken various routes.

Dehesa School District in El Cajon recently switched to audio recordings after previously relying on written records, Superintendent Nancy Hauer said.

In the past, we have always done just the written minutes, she said. Now we have a new confidential secretary, and at her request, we have purchased a new recorder, so she can record the minutes and then transcribe them.

By contrast, Cardiff Superintendent Jill Vinson said the small, coastal district has long maintained minutes by hand, and has no plans to change that.

Its always been in written form, Vinson said. Thats been a long-standing practice of the board long before I became superintendent.

deborah.brennan@sduniontribune.com Twitter@deborahsbrennan
The Los Angeles City Council voted Friday to spend $59.3 million to buy a piece of land billed as a crown jewel in Mayor Eric Garcettis push to restore an 11-mile stretch of the Los Angeles River.

On an 11-0 vote, the council moved ahead with the purchase of the 41-acre site, formally known as G2, from railroad company Union Pacific.

Councilman Mitch OFarrell, who heads the committee overseeing the river restoration effort, said the property is by far the largest along the concrete waterway to have a willing seller. That makes the purchase a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for City Hall, he said.

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Its unheard of to have a parcel of this size that we can acquire next to the river for habitat restoration, for public use, for revitalization efforts  you name it, OFarrell said. In order to do anything along the river, we must control the property.

Because the site is heavily contaminated, the citys strategy for buying the land, cleaning the soil, restoring habitat and adding public improvements is expected to reach $252 million. The work would transform the mostly empty site into a place for residents to hike, bicycle and view wildlife.

The project is expected to take several years and is still short tens of millions of dollars. Nevertheless, Garcetti said at least a segment of the site could become an initial park within three years.

That would represent a big change for the G2 site, which has long been a barrier between the rivers edge and the nearby neighborhoods of Cypress Park and Glassell Park. The G2 parcel, said Garcetti, will open up more than a mile of direct riverfront access.

For decades, weve looked at this piece of land, which has split the community away from the river, Garcetti said in an interview. We finally have the ability to bring people down to the banks of the river, through nature and parks, in a working-class part of Los Angeles.

City officials have been working for years on a strategy to restore a stretch of the river between Griffith Park and downtown. That initiative would include efforts to widen the river in some locations and free sections of the channel from what Garcetti called its concrete straitjacket.

Revitalization of the 11-mile stretch of river was expected to cost $1 billion three years ago, with the city splitting the cost equally with the federal government. Since then, the overall price tag has jumped to nearly $1.6 billion.

A recent analysis warned that unless additional funds are identified, the city could shoulder as much as 76% of the financial burden for the restoration and recreation initiative.

State Sen. Kevin de Leon (D-Los Angeles) identified $25 million in funds for the G2 site two years ago. City officials also expect the federal government to provide at least $25.4 million for the property.

Still, prospects for securing federal funds are unclear, in part because of the election of President Trump, who has threatened to withhold federal funds from cities with lenient policies toward illegal immigration.

G2 was once part of the 247-acre Taylor Yard railroad complex, which hosted train maintenance and fueling operations. Sections of the yard have been sold off over several decades.

Fridays vote was welcomed by several environmental organizations, including the Friends of the Los Angeles River. Lewis MacAdams, that groups co-founder and former president, said he has been pushing for the purchase for more than 30 years.

Escrow on the G2 site is expected to close by March 1.

david.zahniser@latimes.com

Twitter: @DavidZahniser

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Out there in the not-so-dark recesses of the internet exists evidence of a company known as Efficient Pickup, which purports to teach men how to seduce women.

The idea, apparently, isnt to find The One, or even a special one among many conquests. This is a numbers game, with the word game and all its connotations being the operative term. The goal is to sleep with as many women as possible.

Our method is based on that kind of ruthless, very straightforward, very easy to assimilate method thats going to give you consistent results with high-quality women, says one of the companys operators in a video posted on YouTube in 2015.

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But this was no game for a woman in San Diego who was raped while she was passed out at a Gaslamp Quarter apartment in 2013. Although she reported the crime immediately, she also took it upon herself to find and identify her attackers.

She found them through an internet search that led her to a website for Efficient Pickup, and blog entries in which the men had bragged about the night she was sexually assaulted.

Two of the men  Alexander Markham Smith, 27, and Jonas Dick, 28  were identified as instructors with the company. Each was convicted of rape charges and sentenced last year to eight years in prison.

A third man, Jason Berlin, was a student of the others. The 28-year-old is scheduled to be sentenced Friday in San Diego Superior Court in front of the same judge who ordered prison terms for the other two defendants.

Last month, Judge Jeffrey Fraser had harsh words for Smith, also known as Beryl, who was seated at the defense table with his attorney.

The fact is, the defendant did treat the victim in this case not as a human being but as simply an object, Fraser said, according to a transcript of the proceeding. And I got to tell you, having sat up here for 18 years, theres a lot of people that have sat in that chair  murderers, rapists, kidnappers  go down the list.

I dont know if Ive seen one that has been as mean and cruel as you have been, the judge continued. What you did to that woman, I mean just  just cruel. And all for your own personal reasons.

The judge noted that the crime was committed with a level of criminal sophistication not usually seen in sex cases. He said the defendant had his own school, apartment and terminology  Pull OClock, for example, is the time right after a bar has closed when it might be optimal to pick up women  all used to teach men not to interact with women, but to rape them.

In order to protect society, you need to be put away, the judge told Smith. This is not a hard decision at all. In fact if I could give you more time, I would.

The crime occurred in October 2013, after a 31-year-old woman and her girlfriend left a Gaslamp-area bar about 2 a.m. As they waited for a taxi, the women were approached by two men identified later as Smith and Dick, who invited them to an apartment on J Street, according to court documents.

When they arrived at the apartment, a third man, Berlin, was asleep on the couch in the living room.

The woman was raped while she was passed out inside one of the apartment bedrooms and separated from her friend. After her friend found her, and she had regained consciousness, she said she had been raped and wanted to call police.

Officers went to the apartment and knocked on the door, according to court documents. They could hear noises coming from inside, but no one answered.

Surveillance video showed Smith, Dick, the victim and her friend entering the apartment complex. The victim appeared to be staggering, and she was still staggering when she left the complex about an hour later.

Her blood-alcohol content measured 0.15 percent around 5 a.m. Biological evidence was collected from her body for DNA testing, some of which was compared later to Smiths.

It was a match.

But the real break in this case came from the victims own investigation. The friend who was with her that night remembered Dicks name, which led the woman to a website for Efficient Pickup that listed Dick and Smith as instructors.

The website appears to have been taken down, but a link to an archived version of that instructor page shows Dicks photo along with a bio. It reads in part: This guys game is on another level that no one has ever seen. He pulls every single night he is out.

A listing under the name Beryl says he began running weekly boot camps teaching the Efficient Pickup method of seducing women starting in 2012 after the San Diego pickup community took notice of his skills.

Beryl knows what it is like to have (bad) instruction  and pushes his students hard to make sure they get results, the bio reads. Most of Beryls pulls are within 3 minutes of meeting the girl(s). He is a master of game, logistics and improvisation ...

The website also featured a blog called Tales of a Sex-Addicted Narcissistic Player, in which the writer implied that the apartment on J Street was rented for the sole purpose of seducing women.

One blog was posted by Berlin and contained a vivid description of the October 2013 incident, according to court records. Another was posted by Smith about an hour after the sexual assault occurred.

Under state law, a person who is intoxicated, asleep or unconscious, cannot give legal consent to a sex act.

Prosecutor Lisa Fox said its common for the District Attorneys Office to receive reports from investigators alleging rape of an intoxicated person. (The office has a page on its website devoted to the subject, offering tips on prevention and ways to get help if a person has been victimized.)

But this case differs from most, Fox said, because the perpetrators were an organized group that taught others how to pick up women  usually at bars and clubs  and bring them home. Then they wrote about their conquests on the internet.

Theyre bragging about it online so that others can see how successful they are, Fox said.

In at least one online video, a man who claims to have started Efficient Pickup tells viewers that by using his method, any average guy can seduce the women he wants. He tells potential students that being a man is enough for a woman to be attracted to you, and warns that although alcohol is an effective means to cloud a womans rational mind, doing so is downright creepy and wrong, not to mention illegal.

In this case, the victim told San Diego police about the website she found. At Smiths sentencing last month, the judge said the woman deserved an award for her investigative work on the case.

But for you, he wouldnt be here and the others wouldnt be here. Nobody would be held accountable, Fraser said. In fact, worse than that, things would have gone on and there would be other victims, and it is quite possible we would have never learned about this.

I cant imagine the detectives expression when you walked in and said, OK, heres the file. Go arrest this guy.

Smith was arrested in January 2014. At the end of a Superior Court trial, he was convicted of rape of an intoxicated person and rape of an unconscious person, both felonies.

In an interview with a probation officer, he maintained he did have sex with the woman, but he did not rape her.

I own up for being an asshole, but in my opinion she wasnt too drunk to give her consent, he said. Smith has filed an appeal.

Dick and Berlin were arrested in March 2015. They each pleaded guilty to rape charges.

Defense attorney Vikas Bajaj said he plans to ask the judge at the sentencing hearing to consider placing Berlin on probation. He said Berlin fell into a web spun by Dick and Smith.

He is a very naive individual, who leans on people who he believes to be experts in areas that he is deficient in, Bajaj said.

On Friday, Berlin could be sentenced to up eight years in prison.

dana.littlefield@sduniontribune.com

Twitter: @danalittlefield
The Tumlinsons were among the hundreds of victims who lost property in the Witch Creek fire that swept through San Diego Countys backcountry in October 2007. In their case, it was a large outbuilding adjacent to their Ramona home, prosecutors said.

If the couple had only taken the appropriate steps to recover damages, they wouldnt have been in San Diego federal court Friday morning, Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Tenorio said.

But Deborah Tumlinson had decided to go another route.

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She lied about receiving a large settlement stemming from the fire damage so she could obtain a more than $700,000 loan to buy a new house, then failed to pay on the loan.

She pleaded guilty in May to aiding and abetting in a wire fraud scheme.

U.S. District Judge Janis Sammartino on Friday sentenced Tumlinson to a year and a day in prison, noting how the conduct had caused others severe mental anguish and pain.

Douglas Tumlinson, who signed many of the documents, entered into a deferred prosecution agreement. The U.S. Attorneys Office dismissed the charges against him Friday after his wife was sentenced.

The Tumlinsons had legitimately been part of litigation against San Diego Gas & Electric, as the other fire victims had, in San Diego Superior Court. The utility has conceded that high Santa Ana winds caused some of its equipment to spark, resulting in the fire.

In 2010, the couple took steps to buy a new home in Valley Center.

Tumlinson admitted to causing the familys friend and trust attorney, Carter Johnston, to send a letter to a New Jersey-based lender, U.S. Claims, that stated the couple had reached a $2.49 million settlement in the wildfire case and would be paid the money within 30 days, according to her plea agreement and other documents.

Johnston also falsely conveyed that he had represented the Tumlinsons in the settlement.

After further conversations with Johnston and Tumlinson, and reviewing what appeared to be the settlement document, U.S. Claims president Darryl Levine decided to loan the couple more than $700,000 for the purchase of the home, Levine said in a letter filed to the court.

He said he did not receive payment on the loan, and after investigation it became apparent that the settlement story was a ruse.

Levine said the fraud resulted in a massive financial loss and forced him to take the couple and Johnston to court to recover the money. After a bench trial, Superior Court Judge Joel Wohlfeil in 2012 awarded U.S. Claims $1.6 million in damages and fees.

Levine also had to disclose the fraud to the companys financial backers, which harmed his ability to obtain credit and forced him to sell the business in 2014, he said.

Johnston, the couples attorney, was disbarred for his involvement in the case.

In addition to the U.S. Claims loan, Tumlinson also sought a new loan from Seaside Funding, a Carlsbad mortgage broker, falsely claiming the Valley Center home would be a rental property. She acquired a $250,000 home equity loan, which she also didnt pay on.

Some of the Seaside loan proceeds were later recovered when the home was sold as a foreclosure.

Deborah Tumlinsons attorney, Michael Berg, said several letters were sent on behalf of his client describing her as generous and loving. She grew up in a troubled family and later served honorably in the Navy, he said.

Tumlinson, who collapsed in court before the hearing began and said she suffers from health problems, apologized to the judge Friday. She said she didnt think her actions were criminal at the time and that she had  and still has  every intention of paying back the money.

The judge made repayment a priority, ordering the Tumlinsons to pay $1.8 million in restitution to U.S. Claims. Even though there is a civil judgment against them, U.S. Claims attorney Pat Swan argued Friday that a restitution order from a judge has more force and may give his client a better chance of getting paid.

Related

Last big 2007 SDG&E fire lawsuit settled

kristina.davis@sduniontribune.com

Twitter: @kristinadavis
The San Diego Community College District board has become the latest education panel in the county to vow support for an Obama-era program that protects unauthorized immigrant students from deportation.

District Chancellor Constance Carroll said the act was not of defiance to the new Trump administration, but rather a resolution that the district will follow laws already in place to protect student privacy.

Every practice weve enumerated and related to is proper within the current law, she said about the resolution, which was passed unanimously Thursday.

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In compliance with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act that governs the privacy of student records and the California DREAM Act, which exempts undocumented students from non-resident tuition, the board resolved to protect its students from possible actions by federal authorities.

Specifically, the board resolved that it would not allow federal immigration officials on campus without legal authority; act on behalf of federal agencies to enforce immigration laws or aid in deportation, or share student records containing immigration or citizenship status with immigration officials without a court order or other legal authority.

The board didnt just decide to make a public proclamation about following a law, however.

District Communications Director Jack Beresford said the action was in response to President Donald Trumps campaign statements about revoking the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals policy, which allows certain undocumented immigrants who entered the country as minors to receive a renewable two-year deferment from deportation

Were still waiting to see what he does, Beresford said. This puts our district on record as supporting DACA.

The districts resolution is similar to one adopted by the California Community College Board of Governors.

Chula Vista Elementary, San Diego Unified and Southwestern Community College districts also have adopted resolutions in support of DACA since the election. The presidents at CSU San Marcos, University of San Diego and UC San Diego have added their names to a statement expressing their concern and support for DACA.

Carroll said the resolution was an assurance to students students that the district will fight for them if facing any action that could lead to their deportation.

There are institutions that will provide voluntary assistance (to federal immigration officers), and we will not be one of them, she said.

Trustees also voted to send a letter to students stating it would not allow federal immigration officials on campus without legal authority and would not act on behalf of federal agencies to enforce immigration laws or aid in deportation.

gary.warth@sduniontribune.com

Twitter: @GaryWarthUT

760-529-4939
Even before President Donald Trump signed an executive order this week ordering a wall built along the U.S.-Mexico border, South Countys school districts were taking steps to ensure their campuses will be safe places for those who are worried about how his new policies may affect immigrant families.

Francisco Escobedo, superintendent of the Chula Vista Elementary School District, said the districts schools will serve as safe zones and resource centers for students and families threatened by immigration enforcement or discrimination.

We must preserve our schools as sacred grounds for learning, growth and exploration without fear of adverse action by an other government agency, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Escobedo said.

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About 65 percent of the districts nearly 30,000 students are of Hispanic descent, and 35 percent are English language learners.

Board members passed a resolution in December that, among other protections, reaffirmed Escobedos authority to safeguard student, family and school employee data and identities from any future policies and executive actions that could negatively affect them.

Trustees also directed the districts lawyer to issue a memo reminding students and staff of the Supreme Court protections afforded to immigrant students, and the Department of Homeland Securitys decision to classify schools as sensitive locations where enforcement actions are prohibited.

The National and Sweetwater Union High school districts have adopted similar measures since the election. The San Ysidro School District will address the issue in the coming weeks.

South Bay Union School Districts trustees are set to approve its own resolution confirming a commitment to peace, tolerance and respect at the February board meeting.

Our children have every right to have the opportunity to achieve what many call the American dream, and its up to us to protect their rights, said San Ysidro Superintendent Julio Fonseca.

Follow me on Twitter: @HuardSDUT
President Donald Trumps latest action on immigration was welcome news to some San Diegans who are not comfortable with refugees being resettled close to them.

A group of county residents against local refugee resettlement tried to get cities throughout the county to drop official designations as Welcoming Cities last year.

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Ernie Griffes, who participated in that push, said, We need a moratorium on the refugee absorption process. It is overwhelming our neighborhoods with immigrant refugees who are being treated better than our homeless population and veterans. It is a rational to step back and sort it all out and proceed cautiously. Governments first responsibility is to its own citizens safety and security. We selected him to do this and it needs to be done.

Organizations who work with refugees, on the other hand, were quick to condemn the action.

This decision is antithetical to American values and humanitarian principles. This act would bar Syrian refugees and refugees from other nationalities from taking refuge in the land that was built on the premise of being open to people who are fleeing persecution and violence, said Bayanne Mihtar of the Syrian Community Network, which pairs American and Syrian families locally to cultivate friendships and help arriving refugees get settled. Syrian refugees undergo the most stringent of vetting processes before being considered for resettlement in the United States.

Michael Hopkins, CEO of Jewish Family Service of San Diego, a local refugee resettlement agency, pointed out that the president had signed the order on International Holocaust Remembrance Day.

We must remember that the United States immigration policy was developed in direct response to the Holocaust, Hopkins said in an emailed statement. We believe that the memory of the Holocaust should serve as a reminder to respect human dignity and condemn all forms of intolerance and hate. We must prevent history from repeating itself.

Others questioned the legality of the orders.

The Constitution forbids the government from favoring or discriminating against particular religions, and todays Executive Order paves the way for unconstitutional religious discrimination, Bardis Vakili, an attorney with the ACLU San Diego, said via email.

The Council on American Islamic Relations, a Muslim civil rights organization, announced shortly after the order was signed that it would be filing a lawsuit, with more details coming Monday.

kate.morrissey@sduniontribune.com, @bgirledukate
A University of California San Diego professor who served as an adviser to former President Barack Obama released a study Thursday saying that sanctuary counties have significantly lower crime rates and stronger economies than those that cooperate fully with federal immigration enforcement efforts.

Release of the study was moved up in a charged political environment in which President Donald Trump signed an executive order telling federal agencies to stop disbursing federal grant money to sanctuary cities.

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The study by Professor Tom Wong compared sanctuary and non-sanctuary counties with similar populations. Wong concluded that increased deportations through local law enforcement can affect the areas economy, especially in rural counties with smaller populations.

If you imagine what might be going on in these rural counties, every deportation is going to be proportionately more impactful the smaller the population is, Wong said. Every deportation means a large dent in the local economy.

He looked at economic indicators such as median household income, poverty rate, use of public assistance and unemployment to measure economic strength.

Wongs analysis found that the percentage of children under 18 in households that receive public assistance was 4.9 percent lower, on average, in sanctuary counties.

Wong said notably higher use of public benefits could reflect the struggle of mixed status families whose breadwinners have been deported and whose U.S. citizen children qualify for aid.

When youre engaged in mass deportation efforts or aggressive deportation efforts, and when those efforts are separating families and particularly the breadwinners of families, we know what the moral implication and human implication of that are, Wong said. Deporting the breadwinner also leaves the family more economically vulnerable.

He also found that median household income is, on average, $4,350 higher in sanctuary counties. The median household income for sanctuary counties was $46,515 and the median household income for nonsanctuary counties was $42,162.

San Diego Countys median household income was $64,309.

Wong concluded that, whether the county is big or small, rural or urban, local law enforcement are able to keep communities safer when they leave immigration enforcement to the federal government, an argument frequently given by sanctuary jurisdictions.

He found that there are 35.5 fewer crimes per 10,000 people in sanctuary counties. The crime rate for sanctuary counties was 192.4 per 10,000 people and the rate for non-sanctuary counties was 227.9, according to data from Wong.

In large metro areas, the difference is greater  65.4 crimes fewer per 10,000 people. The rate for large metro sanctuary counties was 367.5 crimes per 10,000 people and for similar non-sanctuary counties the rate was 432.9.

The crime rate for San Diego County was 252.8 per 10,000 people, Wong said. He said the low rate was an outlier for non-sanctuary cities.

Wong measured crime rate based on both violent and property crimes reported to the FBI.

When it comes to the debate about whether local law enforcement should exist in federal immigration enforcement efforts, law enforcement officials have said this undermines public safety by undermining trust in local law enforcement, Wong said, adding that the data in his study supported this claim.

Though they cooperate with ICE, some police departments in San Diego County have said they would resist participating in another immigration enforcement program, known as 287(g), that deputizes local law enforcement as immigration enforcement officers, because they say it erodes community trust in the department.

Jessica Vaughan, director of policy studies for the Center for Immigration Studies, a conservative think tank that advocates for lower immigration levels, said by telephone that she doesnt think economics has anything to do with sanctuary policies. She had not read the report prior to the interview.

The problem with sanctuary policies is not that they contribute to the crime rate or depress the economy, Vaughan said. The problem is they result in the release of criminal aliens back to the community and those individuals re-offend.

She said that immigrants who commit crimes are a small fraction of the overall population.

I dont believe crime rates are affected much by immigration at all. I kind of question that whole premise, Vaughan said. There are so many more American criminals than there are non-citizen criminals.

According to the Wongs dataset, which was obtained from Immigration and Customs Enforcement through a Freedom of Information request, San Diego County is not a sanctuary county. Vaughan said she still considers the county a sanctuary jurisdiction.

Sanctuary counties, as defined in the study, reject Immigration and Customs Enforcement requests, called detainers, to hold people in custody after their release date if officials believe they do not have legal status in the U.S.

San Diego County law enforcement uphold these requests if they are signed by a judge, according to the sheriffs office.

ICE can also make requests to be notified that an unauthorized immigrant will soon be released from custody. While San Diego officials also honor these, some sanctuary jurisdictions do not cooperate with these requests either, according to Wong.

San Francisco and Los Angeles counties were both considered sanctuary counties for the study, as was Cook County, where Chicago is located.

kate.morrissey@sduniontribune.com, @bgirledukate
For the first time since its government collapsed decades ago, Somalia received a chartered flight full of deportees from the United States this week, according to Ahmed Awad, Somali ambassador to the U.S.

The flight contained a combination of Somali green card holders who committed crimes and asylum seekers who lost their cases in immigration court, according to the ambassador. The decision is not one of the new administrations, he said. The process started under former President Barack Obama.

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The U.S. had been sending two or three people back each month by commercial flights with the help of the embassy since last summer, Awad said, but then several months ago, Immigration and Customs Enforcement approached the year-old embassy about getting travel documents for a plane-full of Somalis.

We are legally bound to produce the documents, but I would have appealed for these people to not be returned because of the danger that may occur to them by Al-Shabaab, Awad said in a phone interview.

Somalias government collapsed in 1991, according to the U.S. State Department, and the country has been plagued by Al-Shabaab, a terrorist organization aligned with Al-Qaeda, according to the National Counterterrorism Center.

Two Kenyan nationals and 90 Somali nationals were on this weeks flight, according to ICE officials. It landed first in Nairobi, Kenya, where the U.S. ambassador to Somalia is based for safety reasons. The Somalis were then put on another flight to Mogadishu.

Our borders are not open to illegal migration, an ICE official said. If someone was apprehended at the border, has been ordered removed by an immigration court, has no pending appeal and does not qualify for asylum or other relief from removal under our laws, he or she must be sent home. We must and we will enforce the law in accordance with our enforcement priorities.

The number of Somalis on the flight is almost half the number of Somalis deported in 2016, according to data from ICE. Just under 200 were deported that year, and 103 Somalis were deported in 2015.

For years, Somalis with deportation orders from U.S. immigration judges were unable to be returned because of conditions in their homeland. Generally, when people cannot be deported, ICE has to either document that they are a threat to public safety and continue to hold them, or release them under supervision.

Somalis crowd at a hotel heavily damaged by a car bomb blast in Mogadishu, Somalia, Wednesday, Jan 25, 2017. (Farah Abdi Warsameh / AP)

Somalia has been working to reconstruct its government, and the U.S. formally recognized the new government in January 2013, according to the State Department, though the department still has a travel warning for the country.

The warning says, in 2016, there were 14 documented attacks on hotels, restaurants and the international airport in Mogadishu, where the chartered flight will land.

Al-Shabaab has repeatedly attacked the Mogadishu Aden Adde International Airport with mortars and other weapons, the warning says. The group has conducted attacks from within the airports secure perimeter, and they detonated an explosive device hidden in a laptop on an airplane shortly after it took off from the airport on February 2, 2016.

Al-Shabaab made another attack on a hotel in Mogadishu on Wednesday, reportedly killing 28 people, according to multiple news agencies.

The State Department travel warning also says that U.S. should avoid sailing near Somalia because of pirate attacks.

Awad made an agreement with ICE that the embassy would prioritize travel documents for those who submitted handwritten letters in Somalia saying they wanted to go back.

Some of them are in danger if they go back, Awad added. It would have been too much of a burden for us to prove individual cases whether theyre at risk or not, but we do know some of them are at risk.

He hoped the letter requirement might help keep those who are really in danger here in the U.S. for possible appeals or case reopenings.

Somalis seeking asylum frequently fly to Brazil and then use smugglers to help them reach Tijuana, where they come to either the San Ysidro or Otay Mesa ports of entry and ask for protection. Because of the increasing demands on detention facility space with recent surges in asylum seekers, many are eventually transferred to detention facilities around the country to await their fate.

Local immigration attorney Robin Carr said she worried that at least some on the flight had felt pressure to write and sign the letters.

She said shed helped three of her Somali clients get off the list for the flight either through a court order or by showing the Somali embassy that the handwritten letter process hadnt happened.

All three went through their asylum hearings without attorneys, and all three lost their cases. Statistics show that having an attorney can make a big difference in whether someone is granted asylum. Asylum grant rates also vary widely by judge and by immigration court location.

Carr is helping the three Somali asylum seekers reopen their cases.

kate.morrissey@sduniontribune.com, @bgirledukate
It was the snowiest winter Park City had seen in years. Nour Haji, wearing a T-shirt despite the freezing temperatures, backed his white Toyota Camry toward a snowbank to turn around.

How has your night been? he asked, peering into the rearview mirror at his Lyft passenger in back.

Just over a year ago, Haji, 26, was still living in Turkey, having fled his home in Syria and become a refugee. He had longed to go to the United States ever since he was a teenager, when he begged his father to let him study there.

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He arrived in Utah with his mother and sister in late 2015 and started working as a ride-hailing driver a few months ago. The side job paid decently and was a great chance to keep working on his English.

Back in Syria, he was always at the top of his class in English. He liked to watch American movies and invent conversations in his head to practice, consulting a translating app on his phone whenever he got stuck. Now it was paying off.

But people like Haji will no longer be allowed into the United States under an executive order signed by President Trump on Friday. The order suspends refugee admissions for 120 days and indefinitely bans refugees from Syria.

Haji and his family, who are Kurdish, fled their home in central Aleppo in 2012. The Syrian conflict had started a year earlier, and though heavy bombing wasnt yet a staple of life in the northwestern Syrian city, conditions had already become difficult.

There were no jobs, no safety, no money, no incomes, he said. You just needed to leave to be able to get a life.

So Haji and his mother, father, sister and two brothers took refuge in a village in northern Aleppo province, where they owned a home and some land. A few days later, most of them sneaked across the border into Turkey. His eldest brother stayed behind because he worried he would not be able to support his wife and four young daughters.

Haji struggled to find work in Turkey, at one point going five months without a job. When he did work, it was long hours and little pay in construction, sales or textiles, he said.

On the advice of another brother who had moved to Canada before the war, Haji, his mother and his sister visited a U.N. office in Istanbul to see if they could start the process of resettlement. They were interviewed at length later in the capital, Ankara. His father and brother were skeptical and skipped the interview.

The process of refugee resettlement usually begins with the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees, said Chris Boian, a spokesman for the agency.

First, a person has to meet the legal definition of refugee: somebody who has been forced to flee his or her country because of war, violence, or a well-founded fear of persecution for reasons of race, religion, nationality, political opinion or membership in a particular social group.

There are vastly more refugees than countries have agreed to resettle. After screening and interviewing candidates, the United Nations refers as many as it can to third countries for consideration. Women and children at risk, victims of violence or torture, refugees with medical needs and members of persecuted minorities get priority. The agency also tries to reunify families.

Refugees do not get to choose where they will be sent. The United Nations provides host countries with lists of eligible candidates and those countries then do their own vetting and decide who gets in.

In the United States, the screening for resettlement includes a series of background checks, interviews, fingerprinting and medical checks conducted by the State Department, National Counterterrorism Center, FBI, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Defense and other intelligence agencies.

Applicants who pass all those tests then face additional screening by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol and are checked against flight watch lists before they are finally allowed to board planes to the United States. The entire process takes 18 to 24 months on average.

Refugees are screened more carefully than any other type of traveler to the U.S., says an overview of the process on the State Departments website.

Trump has ordered a review of the screening process and instructed the secretary of State and other officials to identify and put in place additional measures to ensure that those approved for refugee admission do not pose a threat.

Nearly two years after his initial visit to the U.N. office, Haji landed in Los Angeles with his mother and sister in November 2015. A few days later, they arrived in Salt Lake City, where they had relatives.

The life here  its kind of difficult and the cultures are way different, but Im growing used to it, he said.

He found work as a carpet cleaner but he quit a few weeks ago because he felt the pay was too little. While he looks for other employment, he gets by with his Lyft job.

In just the first four days of the Sundance Film Festival, which started Jan. 19 in Park City, he had made $2,000, he said.

Eventually Haji hopes to go to college to study engineering.

In Turkey and in Syria I lost my hope  I felt like maybe Im dying, he said. But now, here, I have hope. I know if I work hard, in the future my life is going to be better.

Not all members of his family have been so lucky.

While the brother who came with him to Turkey made it to Germany after a dangerous journey by sea and land through Greece, his father returned to northern Aleppo, joining Hajis eldest brother.

They cannot go home to the city of Aleppo, which was once a thriving commercial center but has been devastated by the six-year conflict between rebels and the Syrian government.

Under the refugee program as it stood before Trumps executive order, people with refugee status could petition for spouses and unmarried children to join them. But they faced more hurdles when it came to siblings and parents.

Now, Hajis father and brother have no chance of moving to the United States in the foreseeable future.

If I could, I would try to bring them tomorrow, said Haji. But its like asking, can you touch the clouds? No, you cant.

Haji said he had a message for Trump. A few hundred years ago there was no America, he said. America was built by refugees.

Im working here like any American, he said. Im paying taxes. I work more jobs than maybe the average person. Im not asking for any help. The only thing I need is to stay safe.

nina.agrawal@latimes.com

Twitter: @AgrawalNina

UPDATES:

Jan. 27, 6:45 p.m. This article was updated with information about the executive order signed by President Trump.

This article was originally published Jan. 26 at 6:20 p.m.
President Trump signed an executive order Friday that temporarily halts the nations refugee program and ushers in the most sweeping changes in more than 40 years to how the U.S. welcomes the worlds most vulnerable people.

The order blocks all refugees from entering the U.S. for 120 days and suspends the acceptance of refugees from war-torn Syria indefinitely.

We want to ensure that we are not letting into our country the very threats that our soldiers are fighting overseas, Trump said after swearing in new Defense Secretary James N. Mattis at the Pentagon.

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Trump also blocked visa applicants entirely from a list of countries that the administration considers of major terrorism concern, including Iraq, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen, until a new extreme vetting procedure for visa applicants can be launched.

The action capped Trumps frenetic first week in the White House, as well as a busy day that included his first meeting with a foreign leader, British Prime Minister Theresa May.

Trump also spoke by phone for about an hour with Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto, attempting to soothe what has already become a tense relationship. And he swore in Mattis and signed a second directive that instructs the Pentagon to draw up a list of plans to upgrade equipment and improve training.

The U.S. has admitted more than 3.3 million refugees since 1975, including more than 80,000 refugees in the last year. Under Trumps plan, those numbers will plummet to a trickle for the next several months. For the full fiscal year, which ends Sept. 30, the order sets a cap of 50,000 refugees.

The order provides an exception for religious minorities, a category that could include Christians fleeing largely Muslim countries as well as other groups including Yazidis and Bahais that face persecution in the Mideast.

Trump said in an interview Friday with the Christian Broadcasting Network that the order will help Christians fleeing Syria enter the United States.

The order also expands the ability of local jurisdictions to block the settlement of refugees they object to. During the Obama administration, the federal government stopped efforts by some local officials to block refugee resettlements.

Trumps action, seen as part of his campaign pledge to ban Muslims from entering the country, sparked an international outcry, given the historic role that the U.S. and other industrialized nations have long played in embracing victims of war and oppression. The last major change in U.S. refugee policy came during the Vietnamese resettlement programs of the mid-1970s.

In recent months, Trump has backed away from a blanket ban on Muslims and instead says he will focus on blocking people from countries linked to terrorism.

Democrats, however, say the new order is just a more cleverly worded way of achieving the same goal. And the Council on American-Islamic Relations immediately announced that it would sue.

Make no mistake  this is a Muslim ban, said Sen. Kamala Harris of California. Broad-brush discrimination against refugees and immigrants from Muslim-majority countries, most of whom are women and children, runs counter to our national security interests, and will likely be used as a terrorist recruitment tool.

But Trump won backing from some key congressional Republicans, including Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas, who leads the House Homeland Security Committee.

We are a compassionate nation and a country of immigrants, McCaul said. But as we know, terrorists are dead-set on using our immigration and refugee programs as a Trojan horse to attack us.

The new vetting procedures block admission of individuals who engage in acts of bigotry or hatred or would oppress members of one race, one gender or sexual orientation.

Trump called the vetting procedures totally extreme during an interview with Fox News on Thursday.

Were going to have extreme vetting for people coming into our country, and if we think theres a problem, its not going to be so easy for people to come in anymore, he said.

Im going to be the president of a safe country, Trump told ABC News on Wednesday when asked about the policy. We have enough problems.

In the ABC interview, Trump said Germany and other European countries had made a tremendous mistake by allowing these millions of people.

He said residents of countries left out of the ban  Afghanistan, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia  will nonetheless face what he calls extreme vetting, and dismissed concerns that his actions will inflame tensions in the Muslim world.

The world is as angry as it gets, he said. What, you think this is going to cause a little more anger?

Critics called Trumps order a betrayal of long-held American ideals.

Tears are running down the cheeks of the Statue of Liberty tonight as a grand tradition of America, welcoming immigrants, that has existed since America was founded has been stomped upon, Senate Democratic leader Charles E. Schumer of New York said in a statement.

Former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, whose family fled the communist takeover of then-Czechoslovakia when she was a child, said she had benefited personally from the American tradition of openness.

This order would end that tradition and discriminate against those fleeing a brutal civil war in Syria. It does not represent who we are as a country, she said.

Traditionally, the U.S. has accepted refugees based on their vulnerability and their ties to friends and family in the U.S., said Michelle Brane, a director at the Womens Refugee Commission. Religion and nationality are factors to consider in evaluating the refugee claim, but the program should not exclude a refugee on one of those grounds alone, she said.

Several of those who condemned Trumps order noted that it was signed on Holocaust Remembrance Day, a reminder that thousands of Jews fleeing Nazi Germany were denied safe harbors in the United States and elsewhere, forcing them back to Nazi-controlled territory, where many were murdered.

Donald Trump is retracting the promise of American freedom to an extent we have not seen from a president since Franklin Roosevelt forced Japanese Americans into internment camps during World War II, said Steven Goldstein, executive director of the Anne Frank Center for Mutual Respect in New York City.

Los Angeles Times staff writer Michael A. Memoli contributed to this report.

brian.bennett@latimes.com

noah.bierman@latimes.com

Twitter: @ByBrianBennett and @Noahbierman

ALSO:

When Trump says he wants to deport criminals, he means something starkly different than Obama

Yes, Trump can boost deportations and gut the Dreamer program for young immigrants

An outsider takes charge of the Border Patrol  and yes, hell wear the green uniform

UPDATES:

4:45 p.m.: This article was updated with President Trumps signing of the order on extreme vetting.

This article was originally published at 11:05 a.m.
Mexican officials escorted a U.S. citizen wanted for homicide up the pedestrian crossing at San Ysidro on Wednesday evening to hand him over to U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers, according to a customs news release.

The officers ran the mans fingerprints and discovered that the man, 30-year-old Jorge Ibarra, had a warrant out for his arrest for an old homicide case, the release said.

The case happened in National City, police there confirmed. Police were not yet allowed to discuss the case.

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Ibarra was taken into custody and bail was set at $1 million, according to CBP.

kate.morrissey@sduniontribune.com, @bgirledukate
A masked gunman robbed a Kensington cellphone service store of phones and cash Friday, San Diego police said.

The robber walked into Metro PCS Store on El Cajon Boulevard, near 42nd Street, about 1:14 p.m. He pulled out a handgun and ordered employees to give him cellphones and money, police said.

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The employees did as they were told, and the robber left. He was last seen going north on 42nd Street.

He wore a dark, hooded jacket, blue pants, sunglasses and a mask, and carried a black backpack, police said.
Tax season can be unwelcome under the best circumstances. This year may be extra taxing for Paychex, a corporate payroll service that twice shipped scores of confidential salary records and other documents to the wrong address.

The Rochester, N.Y.-based finance and employee-benefits firm delivered more than 60 federal W-2 forms and other tax records issued by a Northern California employer to a San Diego woman whose daughter briefly worked for the company last year.

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The Encinitas woman, who works at The San Diego Union-Tribune but did not want to be identified publicly, received separate batches of materials belonging to the Claremont Rug Co. in Oakland earlier this month.

I immediately knew it was a mistake, and a rather egregious one, she said. Then I looked through and noticed my daughters name, and realized what must have happened.

She called the Paychex office listed on the return address to report the error Jan. 9. Someone called back hours later but the woman was not home and the Paychex employee left a message.

I got busy and didnt call back right away, assuming they would just take care of it, the woman said. Then I never heard back from them.

A second package arrived in the mail last week, about 10 days after the first. It too contained personal tax records.

The woman never opened the materials but provided them to U-T Watchdog, which contacted Paychex and shipped the materials by courier to Rochester.

Spokeswoman Laura Saxby Lynch said the company was sorry for the oversight and had immediately taken steps to correct the situation.

This was absolutely an isolated incident caused regrettably by human error, she said. This was not a widespread systemic error.  We should have followed up more aggressively.

Saxby said a Paychex employee wrongly added the womans Encinitas address to the client profile when processing a change-of-address request. The rug company declined to comment on the mishap.

Watchdog Videos On Now Sexual misconduct accusers worry deputy is being protected 6:16 On Now City funded $2-million waterfront bathroom 1:26 On Now Public water district charges customer for legal work, response to records request On Now Video: Tiny homes won't be reused amid housing, homeless crisis On Now Attorney General seeks documentation for Miss Middle East On Now Rep. Hunter probe covers possible fraud On Now Video: SDG&E delaying solar credit for some low-income housing tenants On Now Video: Former San Diego Junior Theatre teacher sentenced for sex with teen girl 0:24 On Now Video: Shelter volunteers believe they were fired for finding a dog a home 0:49 On Now McKamey Manor is leaving San Diego 3:35

jeff.mcdonald@sduniontribune.com (619) 293-1708 @sdutMcDonald
When I became The San Diego Union-Tribunes editorial and opinion director almost exactly a year ago, I shared in a column that I see the world as complex, nuanced, encompassing, and I promised readers that my approach would be as a conversation starter, not a conversation ender.

I hope youll agree the two powerful cartoons below illustrate this.

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(Steve Breen/The San Diego Union-Tribune)

Friday morning, editorial cartoonist Steve Breen, a two-time Pulitzer Prize winner, came to me with the top cartoon, and we had a discussion about whether to run it in his standard, prominent position atop the editorial page. Breen is pro-life. The editorial board is pro-choice. Dating back long before I began overseeing it, the editorial board has supported a womans right to choose while acknowledging the abortion debate is intensely personal. Weve supported a ban on partial-birth abortions and encouraged embryonic stem cell research. One editorial, published in June, which I edited, ended without equivocation, Women should have a choice. Another from 2008 said most Americans agree with former President Bill Clintons view that abortions should be safe, legal and rare. I personally agree but in conversation would describe my own view only as safe and legal because I believe the choice is a womans to make and rare makes it sound as if Im imposing my judgment on her decision.

As Breen and I talked, thousands of people, including Vice President Mike Pence, gathered in Washington, D.C., for the 44th annual March for Life, which opposes and recognizes the anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the 1973 Supreme Court ruling legalizing abortion.

We discussed the issue thoughtfully, listening intently to and not talking over one another. Its something Im trying to foster on these pages and in a country where it doesnt happen nearly enough. In the end, we compromised to avoid confusion about the editorial boards position, to show that we dont shy away from difficult conversations and to present more than one viewpoint as we so often try to do.

We found a syndicated cartoon to contrast with Breens on the op-ed page, the point being the conversation continues, the complexity exists.

We may not change your views on abortion. Neither Breen nor I will change ours. But I hope weve illustrated that people can disagree without being disagreeable, made you feel something and also made you think.

Hall is the Union-Tribunes editorial and opinion director. What do you think? Ping him on Twitter at @SDuncovered or email him at matthew.hall@sduniontribune.com.

Twitter: @sdutIdeas

Facebook: UTOpinion
San Diego is facing a housing crisis. As the new chair and vice-chair of the City Councils Smart Growth and Land Use Committee, we will respond to the crisis San Diego families are facing not with words, but with action. We are from opposite ends of the political spectrum, but we are committed to San Diegos future. We will tackle this serious issue head-on and with bipartisan cooperation.

The severity of this problem means San Diegos working class families are facing unacceptable trade-offs between paying rent and paying for groceries, medical treatment, or transportation to work. The average cost of rent in our region has reached $1,743 a month. The median cost of a home has surpassed a half-a-million dollars. On average, San Diegans spend more of their annual income on housing than San Franciscans!

The high cost of housing has grave negative implications on our future local economy. Current conditions are forcing families to make the painful decision to relocate and seek more affordable areas to live. In fact, a study reported in this publication showed San Diego had one of the smallest growth rates among millennials in metropolitan areas over the last decade. The housing crisis is stealing away the next generation of workers, innovators and entrepreneurs.

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All this means that the status quo is unacceptable. We need widespread and substantial changes to housing policy to turn this situation around.

At our first committee meeting on Wednesday, we got the ball rolling by holding a Housing Summit where the public offered input and presented solutions to our housing crisis. We will be taking the ideas offered from all the participants at our housing summit and developing a comprehensive work plan to respond to the housing crisis in our city this year.

There is no one solution to combat the housing crisis. We need a multifaceted approach to increase the number and affordability of homes. We must incentivize developers and property owners to increase housing stock. This includes easing restrictions on housing types that directly address the needs of our workforce such as companion units and other unique infill policies.

Over the course of the year we will explore streamlining requirements and processes within our city departments to promote housing affordability. Creating strategic master plans, restructuring fees, and utilizing new technologies will help us get to the finish line.

With the demise of redevelopment, we will need to provide new funding streams and incentives to help spark catalyst projects in areas that havent seen a lot of development recently. The neighborhoods where support for new development is highest are also usually the areas where it can be difficult to secure financing for new development. One of the lessons of past redevelopment policy is that the first project that gets completed can act as a catalyst for more private financing for development nearby.

Lastly, it is important to know where the finish line is. To address this, we will create a target goal for each communitys capacity and responsibility to increase housing units. These target goals will serve as a benchmark for smart growth.

The level of bipartisan consensus regarding the housing affordability problem gives us a lot of hope. This is important since we have to begin tackling this issue now.

Many cities in the Bay Area delayed addressing the problem and now find themselves so far behind that it is nearly impossible to catch up. We will not allow this to happen to San Diego. We need to act before our problem becomes irreversible.

As native San Diegans, this is personal. That is why we are excited to take this challenge on. There has never been a better time to improve housing affordability. If you feel the same way, please contact us to offer your ideas and input. We believe the future of the middle class in San Diego is on the line.

Sherman, represents District 7 on the San Diego City Council and is chairman of the councils Smart Growth and Land Use Committee. Twitter: @ShermanSD7. Alvarez represents District 8 on the City Council and is vice chair of the committee. Twitter: @AlvarezSD.
During his first week in office President Trump made many bold moves, including an executive order to withdraw from the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), a call to renegotiate NAFTA, and a threat to impose a 20 percent border tax on Mexican imports to the United States following a very public spat with Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto.

Trade matters for economies, big and small. For a border city on the edge of the Pacific, decisions on trade policy in Washington have outsize impacts on jobs, growth and opportunities for San Diegans.

Take TPP  an international trade deal originally negotiated between the U.S. and 11 other countries, covering 40 percent of global GDP.

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Right now, the status quo makes it more expensive for U.S. companies to export to other countries than it is for foreign companies to sell goods and services here. TPP sought to level the playing field, especially for the small and midsize companies that make up over 95 percent of San Diegos business ecosystem.

It also was the first trade deal to write the rule book for the economy of the future. It protected the intellectual property of American innovators, which matters when you live in the third most patent-intensive region in the world.

Scientific research and development, the heartbeat of our world-renowned life sciences ecosystem and an industry dependent on patents, is five times more concentrated here than in the U.S. as a whole.

TPP eased restrictions on the movement of data and services across borders, which is important when you have a globally competitive cybersecurity cluster and revolutionary big data and genomics industries.

In San Diego, innovation is our livelihood, and TPP would have been a game changer for all those San Diego companies that export their knowledge across the globe. Killing TPP effectively cedes leadership on trade rules and norms to China, an outcome that is unlikely to be advantageous for U.S. companies and consumers.

And dont forget that 97 percent of our goods exports  primarily high-value manufactured goods worth over $22 billion  are already sold in TPP markets, employing over 120,000 San Diegans. Most of those goods are exported to Mexico, sometimes crossing the border several times before they are fully assembled. This means that 40 percent of the content of imports from Mexico  the ones subject to a potential 20 percent tax  is American-made.

As we pivot from what could have been with TPP and look to NAFTA renegotiation, to building a wall, to a looming trade conflict with China, we should remember that trade has always been an American reality.

Here in San Diego, we marvel at the transformation over the past 50 years from a sleepy Navy town to a global city that develops life-changing technologies. We didnt get here by building walls, and we wont get ahead that way either.

Clarke is executive director of World Trade Center San Diego, an affiliate of San Diego Regional EDC. Cowhey is interim executive vice chancellor for Academic Affairs at UC San Diego and previously served as senior counsel to U.S. Ambassador Ron Kirk in the Office of U.S. Trade Representative.
As California embarks on a grand experiment with legalized recreational marijuana and expects to haul in hundreds of millions more in taxes and licensing revenue starting next year, a new bill by state Sens. Scott Wiener, D-San Francisco, and Toni Atkins, D-San Diego, seems a no brainer.

It would increase the number of places where dispensaries can make tax and fee payments in California beyond the states 22 Board of Equalization offices where taxes can be paid in cash now and the Sacramento sites where many cash fee payments are accepted. Under the bill, state agencies, counties and local tax collectors could accept tax and fee payments in cash from the marijuana industry, which tends to make payments in cash.

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This is no small step when so much remains unknown about how the state will work with recreational marijuana businesses a year from now when it starts issuing retail licenses. Because most banks wont accept their business and because of how big a target these cash-only enterprises can be for criminals, it makes sense to remove any hurdles that might stand in the way of the state getting paid.

Now the state can focus on all the other regulations that will affect anyone who grows, transports, tests and sells marijuana. Already one state lawmaker, Sen. Mike McGuire, D-Healdsburg, is saying there is no way the state of California can meet all of the deadlines before we go live on Jan. 1, 2018.

Meanwhile, San Diego County supervisors voted Wednesday to consider a ban on all marijuana businesses in unincorporated county areas, and the San Diego City Council will meet Tuesday to review its own proposals to regulate marijuana. Whatever governments decide is best for their areas, they shouldnt wait.

Twitter: @sdutIdeas

Facebook: UTOpinion
Donald J. Trumps Great Wall of America

Donald J. Trumps premier campaign promise was to construct a 2,000-mile long, 50-foot high Great Wall of America. He said the wall will cost $8 billion to $10 billion. He vows to complete the project under budget and ahead of schedule.

Scientists at MIT who thoroughly evaluated the project determined that even a 1,000-mile wall would cost $38 billion. Trump thinks the cost overrun for the wall doesnt matter because Mexico is going to reimburse us for the full expense.

Right Donald. Checks in the mail. The fact is, Mexico will never refund a single penny.

Trump visited Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto last September. The financing of the wall was never even discussed. Former Mexican President Vicente Fox, when informed early last year that his country would pay for the wall, bellowed out a string of expletives.

Donald Trump does not represent Hispanic Americans who comprise nearly 18 percent of Americas 323 million people. During the campaign, he called undocumented workers rapists and murderers. He ridiculed a San Diego federal judge for not being impartial simply because he was of Mexican heritage when he was actually born in Indiana, Vice President Mike Pences home state. Trump has nominated dozens of high level prospective cabinet members, but as of inaugural day not a single Hispanic.

Trump has vowed to deport more than 11 million undocumented aliens, men, women, and children. This is an impossible feat. The only way to round up these families will be to construct internment camps in border states like California.

Peter W. Quercia

Ramona
Republican leadership appears to be lining up with the Democrats' proposal, implying that the traditional Republican stance of lower taxes and smaller government is no longer realistic for Illinois.

In return, Democrat- and trial-attorney approved changes to Illinois' workers' compensation program are promised, as well as a temporary, two-year property tax freeze.

The proposal will raise the state's income tax from 3.5 to 4.99 percent, set into motion a new "business opportunity" payroll tax that will weigh heaviest on smaller businesses, along with new service taxes that everyone in Illinois will pay in one way or another.

DuPAGE - Democrats remain in firm control of the Illinois General Assembly, and the Illinois Senate is preparing to vote on a budget deal that will raise taxes while leaving the size of government in place.

Taxpayers aren't happy with the deal, and are writing their lawmakers to object. College of DuPage trustee Frank Napolitano shared with Illinois Review his correspondence with Republican Senate Leader Christine Radogno of Lemont:

I recently heard that you were negotiating with the Democrats on a potential tax increase for the residents of Illinois. The people of Illinois are already leaving the state at record numbers and this will just make it worse. The tax increases over the past several years have done nothing to solve the states budget problems because there has been no substantive spending reform. Look at the tobacco increase put in a few years ago, budgets were approved based on increased revenue from the increased tax, the result was the opposite, sales tax revenue from tobacco sales is declining despite the tax increase. The same can be said about motor fuel taxes. The vast majority of the residents of Illinois are less than an hour drive from a neighboring state. Many of the people of Illinois are already crossing state lines to purchase goods that have lower taxes from our neighboring states which contributes to the declining revenue the state receives from these taxes. Increasing income tax will have a similar effect. There is nothing to prevent someone who works in Chicago and lives in the south suburbs to move to Indiana for example. Moreover businesses are leaving the state at record numbers. Please, consider the long term impact and unintended consequences of a potential tax increase. Please stand strong to your principals and do not negotiate a tax increase with the democrats. Thanks Frank Napolitano

Senator Radogno responded to Napolitano three days later, saying the state's fiscal situation is so dire that thoughts of cutting the budget enough are "unrealistic":

Frank: Thank you for reaching out to express your concerns over the budget framework that is moving through the Senate. At this time, this framework proposal is still a work in progress. However, Senate lawmakers continue to work together to craft a sustainable, balanced budget that will include structural reforms aimed at helping Illinois to maintain predictability and stability in the long run. As you know, Illinois is facing a financial crisis. Unfortunately, our fiscal situation is so dire that it is unrealistic to think we can cut our way out of it. However, I will only consider new revenue if it is tied to transformational reforms, significant cuts to state spending, and passage of a truly balanced budget. It is important to note this framework is not finalized and will change as negotiations continue to move forward. Please rest assured that I will closely monitor this budget and reform package as it evolves in the coming days and weeks. I appreciate your feedback on this issue. Your input helps me better represent the needs of our region in the Illinois Statehouse. If and when the time comes to make a decision on components of any budget framework, rest assured the needs of my district, my constituents, job creators and taxpayers will be my top priority. Sincerely,



Christine Radogno

State Senator, 41st District

Illinois Senate Republican Leader

The Senate is scheduled to return February 7th to vote on the compromise.
Abdul Lucky Manan spent years working as an interpreter for U.S. special forces in Afghanistan, helping military troops navigate the language, culture and rules of his homeland.

It was a dangerous job that came with the promise of a special visa, which took three years and landed him in San Diego two months ago.

Members of Manans family were still waiting for their own promised visas, when President Donald Trump signed an executive order Friday to block visas from specific from Muslim-majority countries known for terrorist activities.

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I lost family and friends who were killed because of my job. Had I known, I would never have taken the job, said Manan, 31. Now, I fear for my family more than ever.

Manan is part of a coalition of local civic leaders, national security experts and refugees that spoke out against Trumps policies on Friday at a news conference organized by the San Diego Chapter of Truman National Security Project.

Trumps order signed Friday blocks visa applications entirely from Iraq, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen until a new stepped up screening procedures are in place. The president said residents of countries excluded from the ban  Afghanistan, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia  would face extreme vetting, and dismissed concerns that his actions would inflame tensions in the Muslim world.

Manan is among roughly 500 immigrants  including other former military interpreters  from Afghanistan and Iraq to resettle in San Diego County in fiscal 2016, according to government data. He believes Trump is undermining promises made to interpreters who risk their lives and their families lives.

Steven Miska, a retired colonel and Iraq war veteran, said its crucial that interpreters, who work alongside members of the military in combat zones, get the visas promised to them and their families. Their work, he said, is critical to the success of missions

From a veterans perspective, this goes against the ethos of leaving no one behind, said Miska, who joined the local advocacy group on Friday.

The coalition also includes Assemblyman Todd Gloria, San Diego City Councilwoman Georgette Gomez, Carlsbad City Councilwoman Cori Schumacher and attorney Omar Passons. The group lashed out at Trumps order as a threat to national security, trade and the founding principles of the country.

President Trumps executive orders, presented under the deliberately misleading guise of national security, are an assault on American pluralism and a failure to live up to the values that make our nation great, said Shawn VanDiver, director of the San Diego chapter. Moreover, they do nothing to enhance the security and safety of Americans, instead introducing a number of unnecessary, redundant, and cruel bureaucratic hurdles to families at home and abroad who view our country as a beacon of hope.

Gloria said his office has been flooded with phone calls and emails from constituents who worried about what impact Trumps policies with have on immigrant families. Among other things, he said he is working with immigrant families to assure them that its safe to send their children to public schools.

We are doing everything we can to make sure schools are not places of immigration enforcement, Gloria said.

Trumps plan would dramatically disrupt immigration to the U.S., which has admitted more than 3.3 million refugees since 1975, and allowed more than 80,000 refugees in last year alone.

The presidents plan allows a narrow group of religious minorities to immigrate to the U.S. that includes Christians fleeing largely Muslim countries.

maureen.magee@sduniontribune.com

Twitter:@MaureenMagee
Del Norte High School student Jessica Tian has been named a finalist in a prestigious national science competition, earning a $25,000 scholarship in the process.

Tian, a senior at the Poway Unified School District campus, was one of 40 finalists selected in the Regeneron Science Talent Search, for her research on a method for infusing paper with antibacterial materials.

I feel very blessed and grateful to have been selected, as a finalist, Tian said. Although yesterday I was very excited to receive the good news, the journey to this point has been just as thrilling with all of the challenges in research, through which I have learned more about myself.

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For her project, Tian, 17, studied how to apply silver and titanium dioxide to cellulose paper and textiles, as part of a summer research program at Stony Brook University in New York.

Cellulose is very versatile, she said. Its used in paper, textiles, hygiene, pharmaceuticals. But its susceptible to microogranisms developing on it because of its ability to retain water, and breathability. And that can be problematic  you wouldnt want bacteria on diapers and clothing. We decided to find a simple, cost-effective method to address this problem.

The compound titanium dioxide  used as a sunscreen and white pigment  also inhibits bacteria, she said, and works even better combined with the precious metal.

Titanium dioxide is very cheap, nontoxic and nanofriendly, she said. Adding silver is more expensive, but it has been known for antibacterial properties since ancient times. It acts synergistically with titanium dioxide to produce better results.

The combo could be applied to products such as diapers, medical equipment and scrubs, food packaging, or cleansing wipes, she said.Tian, who is vice president of the Science Alliance at Del Norte, and founder of a math club at the nearby Maranatha Christian School. She said she became interested in science after seeing the impacts of poor water quality during a family visit to China as a child.

The national finalists will travel to Washington D.C. in March, where they will give a speech, and participate in a series of interviews about their projects for a chance to win a $250,000 scholarship.

She hopes to study chemistry or chemical engineering, she said, and has received an acceptance letter from MIT, and is awaiting results of several other applications.

deborah.brennan@sduniontribune.com Twitter@deborahsbrennan
BUCHAREST, Romania (AP)  Hundreds of mourners have paid their respects to Anne of Romania, wife of former King Michael, lying in state at the Royal Palace in Bucharest.

Romanians climbed stairs of the elegant palace to the cappuccino-colored marble room where Annes coffin was placed, draped with a flag bearing the royal crest and flanked by soldiers.

Thursday is the third day of mourning in Romania for Anne, who died on Aug. 1 in Switzerland, aged 92.

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Retired math professor Valeria Suaraseanu called Anne a woman of great dignity who supported her husband in the saddest moments of his life.

The communists forced Michael to abdicate in 1947. He married Anne six months later.

Romania and Moldova have declared a national day of mourning on Saturday when Anne will be buried.
Nagorno-Karabakh Republic Defense Minister and Defense Army Commander, Levon Mnatsakanyan, admitted that the army had shortcomings prior to the four-day war which Azerbaijan had unleashed against Artsakh in early April 2016, but added that these shortcomings have now been rectified.

January 28, 2017, 11:22 Karabakh defense army: We have progress, in arms and logistical terms

STEPANAKERT, JANUARY 28, ARTSAKHPRESS: Today, we have progress, both in arms and logistical terms, Mnatsakanyan on Saturday told the NEWS.am reporter at Yerablur Military Pantheon in Yerevan, the capital city of Armenia. The works of improving, reinforcing the [military] positions continue; they are continuous.
WASHINGTON - Congressman Adam Kinzinger (IL-16) - a Republican who never was a fan of Donald Trump's during the 2016 campaign - continues to hold his cards close to the vest while analyzing the president's first week in office on CNN. But, he wrote on his Facebook page Friday that he remains hopeful that "we'll see great things" from the new president.
[MANILA] Long before climate change became a buzz word, the Asia-Pacific region had gained a reputation as a natural disaster hotspot.



Over the past 45 years, the region accounted for 57 per cent of the worlds natural disasters, claiming two million lives and a staggering US$1.15 trillion worth of economic losses according to the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific.



Climate change only made things worse for the region with natural disasters regularly striking Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, the Philippines and the small island states in the Pacific, particularly the Solomon Islands, Tonga and Vanuatu.



With increasing awareness of climate change and disaster risk mitigation, countries in the region are working towards building disaster resilience. Discussions are now on for regional-level disaster risk reduction (DRR) through an Asia-Pacific-wide technical group with the Philippines as a possible hub.



SciDev.Net interviewed Renato Solidum, director of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), an agency under the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), to discuss the sharing of expertise, resources and experiences, and the establishment of a DRR Asia-Pacific regional centre hosted by the Philippines.



Why is there a need for a regional hub on DRR?



Its rather simple. When we work together, we learn faster. When we share, we learn from each others mistakes and successes. Its a win-win on learning. The centre will serve as a hub for exchanging information, knowledge and expertise, and will coordinate efforts in providing effective action. The more governments and sectors are involved the better as they will be better equipped to prepare for and mitigate disasters.



It also gives countries in the region the opportunity to align with global targets to reduce losses from disasters or even strongly influence and shape global plans and priorities.



At the ASEAN level there is currently a committee on disaster management but not yet on the Asia-Pacific region-wide level. The ASEAN experience should serve as a good model for enhancing partnerships and cooperation from all stakeholders including from the private sector and on collective response to disasters.



Why the focus on disaster risk and not the broader climate change?



Climate change and disaster risk cannot be separated. Both the events have been happening and causing deaths. Climate change is a long-term change while disasters are actual occurrence a number of which are a result of climate change.



The focus on disaster risk is to reduce exposure and vulnerabilities to natural hazards like earthquakes, storms, floods, tsunamis and droughts through proper planning, systematic analysis of risks, improving preparedness and early warning for such hazards.



Disaster risk reduction can be very technical and requires lots of research to produce data, and products for mitigation and application. This is also to differentiate with disaster risk management which looks at response and recovery using research and data to decide actions and policies and the products to use.



Why is the Philippines leading the DRR discussions and a candidate to become the DRR hub?



The Philippines wants to position itself as a regional and even a global hub for research on DRR. International experts recognise that the country is a natural laboratory for studying disaster risk since it is among the most vulnerable primarily because of its geographic location (it sits within the ring of fire which is susceptible to earthquakes and volcanic eruption, and its on the storm path originating from the Pacific).



It has experienced almost all types of disasters and has done extensive research on them. To cite a couple of examples, there was the 1991 Mt. Pinatubo eruption, one of the worlds largest volcanic eruptions in a century. In 2011 there was typhoon Haiyan, considered among the strongest storms to hit land.

If the Philippines becomes a hub, will it get regional or international funding? How can countries in the region especially developing ones allocate funds for climate change and cover DRR?

Experts from all over the world are coming to the Philippines to study these occurrences and learn from our studies, experiences and response. For instance, PHIVOLCS has developed a software called rapid earthquake damaged assessment system (REDAS). Initially conceived to simulate the magnitude and hazards of earthquakes, it is now also being used to monitor local landslides that the country is prone to and which are expected to worsen due to climate change. Foreign experts are also studying our model on DRR which is lodged at the provincial and municipal levels to engage local governments more.



In planning to be a hub for climate change and DRR, the Philippines must consider investment and show commitment. Ideally, we must double the budget of the DOST each year for the next six years (enough to reach at least two per cent on R&D spending as a percentage of the gross domestic product).



In general, countries across the region should spend more on climate science and increase their budgets for DRR to facilitate better strategic planning and preparation. Ministries should exert more influence and demonstrate urgency to obtain better allocation. However, they should also be able to demonstrate improved efficiency, accountability, monitoring and evaluation especially of research projects to convince national budget planners, policy makers and funders.



There are also many things that can be done with collaboration. Research and training done together with other countries would eventually benefit the country, the region and their partners attracting more collaborations and funding.



This piece was produced by SciDev.Nets South-East Asia & Pacific desk.
The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, DC, with its researchers estimated that there are about 5,000 persecution Nazi sites in 2000. These include the forced labor camps, ghettos, military brothels, concentration camps and POW camps. It turned out that this number of persecution sites was more than eight times as estimated.

Vast number of lost Nazi killing sites discovered, United States Holocaust Memorial Museum @uaf https://t.co/suiqCAwdIf  UAF (@uaf) January 26, 2017

Times of Israel reports that the Encyclopedia of Camps and Ghettos, 1933-1945 listed now about more than 42,500 persecution Nazi sites. These sites were used to exploit, persecute and murder the Jews. Geoffrey Megargee, the project leader, who coordinated the publication of the first two books of the seven-book series and spoke ahead of Friday's International Holocaust Remembrance Day, said that the number of sites could be much higher than that. He further said that one could not turn a corner in Germany (during the war) without finding someone there against their will.

Search for 5,000 Nazi sites turns up 8 times as many - Four hundred Jewish boys, including Noah Lederman's grea... https://t.co/eo6rU5IHmT  Ron Feir (@ronfeir) January 27, 2017

To consider as a persecution site, it requires multiple witness testimonies and documents for confirmation. The team of researchers did not consider the brothels and sub-camps within a larger camp as different entries, according to Fox News.

Meanwhile, Hermann F. Weiss, a researcher, discovered six persecution sites. He said that so many things about the Holocaust might be unknown forever. On the other hand, he said that he keeps collecting and looking.

This indicates that the number of persecution sites could increase by the time the seventh volume of the encyclopedia is printed in 2025. In 2013, it was reported in New York Times that discovery of about 30,000 slave labor camps and 980 concentration camps. It was believed that more were lost to history
SPRINGFIELD - Small manufacturers - an endangered species in once highly-productive Illinois - will be hit once again if the budget plan becomes law when the legislature returns in February.

Still stinging from the budget hit they are taking from higher utility bills dumped on them last fall via the General Assembly's recent Exelon bailout plan, small manufacturers could bear the brunt of several tax-increasing aspects included in the proposed budget plan.

The Technology & Manufacturing Association, a group of more than 800 small manufacturers that employs more than 30,000 taxpayers, says they are opposed to any budget compromise predicated on raising revenue without significant structural reforms.

The group's president, former Senator Steve Rauschenberger, expressed disappointment in the current budget proposal in a notice to members last week.

"What is apparently not included in the proposal is any explicit pension reform nor any spending reform of Medicaid, K-12 School Spending, higher education spending, or the General Assembly's spending budget," Rauschenberger wrote.

"And what we get in return is minor changes to the workmen's compensation system and a two year freeze on property taxes."
Nearly a week has gone by since Donald Trump was sworn in as the President of the United States of America. Perhaps this is the first time when people across the world are so apprehensive of a President who has just been sworn in. This is attributed to the blatant remarks made by the President during his campaign, regarding climate change and its consequences.

Scientists from different institutions and even NASA are nervously expecting a cut in their research funding, which will not only deter the quality of research but also hinder the current momentum of implementation of global climate change policies. Much has been said about this, but a group of scientists, who met online, finally decided to do something about it.

In a forum discussion on Reddit, where scientists were discussing the expected changes in the policies and their outcomes, they came up with the idea of staging a silent protest against the President's policies in the form of a "March," Chron reported.

"There needs to be a Scientists' March on Washington," an anonymous member suggested.

The suggestion was supported by a few other members. Jonathan Berman, postdoctoral fellow at the University of Texas Health Science Center, further propagated the notion and opened an official Facebook Page "March for Science" that has now more than 150,000 members.

Furthermore, March for science got its own Twitter handle and an official website (www.scientistsmarchonwashington.com), which is chaired by Bernan and Caroline Weinberg, famous science writer and researcher. The website also has a Google Form, where anyone who is interested to join the March can register.

"We were inspired (well, infuriated) by the current attacks on science from the new administration. Slashing funding and restricting scientists from communicating their findings (from tax-funded research!) with the public is absurd and cannot be allowed to stand as policy," Weinberg said, as she prepares the team for an official protest.

All this happened within a couple of days. But as of now, it is all happening just online. The co-chairs and other members will soon be meeting to finalize a date for the actual March. It is also being said that the team will try to coordinate with local scientists and supporters from other cities like Boston and Seattle, so that a multicity "March for Science" can be planned.
When Donald Trump won the presidential election, it left half the world gobsmacked. The advocates of climate change all over the world were biting their nails, as Donald Trump has made his intentions to shut down NASA's climate change research projects very clear.

In 2012, Donald Trump posted a tweet, which read that, "Climate change is created by and for the Chinese in order to make U.S. manufacturing non-competitive."

In a debate, during his presidential campaign, Donald Trump said that he will be focusing on the goals of providing clean water, increasing the gross food production across the country and developing clean energy resources. But he altogether rejected the need and importance of focusing on the growing greenhouse emissions and its environmental impact on America and the whole world, Huffington Post reported.

Trump's complete rejection of the concept and consequences of climate change and global warming is not only an insult to the brilliant scientists who are working relentlessly to develop new tactics against it to save the planet but it is also ignoring the fact that thousands of people are losing their homes and livelihood, due to the rising sea levels.

The irony is that Donald Trump also says, "I'm a very big person when it comes to the environment, and I've received awards on the environment."

CNN reported that in response to Donald Trump's statement, Bob Deans, director of strategic engagement at the Natural Resources Defense Council, or NRDC, commented, " It's shocking. It's appalling. We heard him say in front of campaign rallies that climate change is a hoax."

Bob Deans further said, "It's not a hoax. It's the essential environmental challenge of our time, and it's a threat to our children's future."

Now, that one week has passed after Donald Trump officially took the charge of the Oval Office, scientists are preparing themselves for the worst. Furthermore, scientific communities are uniting to stage protest in Washington, DC, against the ignorance of the Trump administration towards the furtherance of scientific research, especially in the field of environmental sciences.

Since the United States of America has always been a lead player in propagating policies and their implementation for saving the environment from the dire consequences of climate change and global warming, the complete role reversal of the country will not only impact its own environment but also of the whole world.
Press Release

January 27, 2017 Where's the money and who benefited from it? Sen. Bam Aquino wants these questions answered when the Senate resumes its hearing on the "tokhang for ransom" incident involving the kidnap-slay of a South Korean businessman on Thursday (Feb. 2). "Hindi namin na-tackle iyan pero tatalakayin natin iyan sa next hearing. The committee should get to the bottom of this," said Sen. Bam. Choi Kyung-jin, wife of South Korean businessman Ick-joo Jee, claimed she gave P5 million ransom to the kidnappers last October 31, 2016. "There was a statement from the PNP na nagkabayaran sa mall pero hindi nila na-monitor kasi ginawa ng pamilya na hindi nagsabi sa kapulisan," said Sen. Bam. Sen. Bam also urged Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa to also focus on weeding out the bad elements in the organization, saying they undermine the government's war against illegal drugs. During the hearing, Dela Rosa mentioned that the PNP has 893 pending administrative cases against erring policemen while 228 were already resolved. "The PNP must focus on cleaning up their ranks even more than the drug war. If they don't clean up, their efforts will be futile because more of these bad elements in the PNP will take advantage of the current landscape," Sen. Bam said. Aside from being worrisome, Sen. Bam stressed that reports of abuses shakes the foundation of the administration's war against illegal drugs. The lawmaker said punishing those involved in the kidnapping and murder of the South Korean will help restore the public trust on the PNP. "Sa kasong ito, malinaw na ang mga personalities involved. Ang kailangan na lang alamin ay ang accountabilities at actions. Baka kahit papano, with a speedy resolution, mabalik nang kaunti ang tiwala," Sen. Bam pointed out. Meanwhile, Sen. Bam revealed that the wife of the slain South Korean will not leave the leaving the country until justice is served over the abduction and murder of her husband. During a talk with the widow, Sen. Bam said Choi Kyung-jin expressed intent in staying in the country until her husband's murder is resolved. "She said she will stay in the Philippines and wait until justice is served for her husband. Palagay ko po (I believe) we owe it to her... to come to the conclusion of this case as soon as possible," Aquino said.
Time to end abusive 'war on drugs' - Hontiveros

"This style of war on drugs clearly suffers from human rights and legal deficiencies".

This was the statement of Akbayan Senator Risa Hontiveros on Thursday during the Senate investigation on the kidnapping and and slay of a Korean national in the hands of members of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

According to Hontiveros, the way to resolve the problem on drugs is through legal means and through a PNP that is fully committed to human rights and rule of law. "Ang tokhang for ransom ay hindi isang isolated incident. Ito ay produkto ng isang war on drugs na walang pagtataya at pag-galang sa human rights at rule of law", she said.

"Galit ako sa ilegal na droga at dapat itong labanan pero galit din ako sa mga abusadong pulis na nambibiktima ng mga inosenteng tao," Hontiveros added.

The senator urged the PNP to reflect on its current anti-drugs campaign before it further harms the public and erodes public trust to the PNP.

"I urge PNP Chief Ronaldo dela Rosa to at least suspend this aggressive style as they clean up their ranks of all bad elements and re-instate internal discipline," Hontiveros said.

It was reported that Dela Rosa admitted that some of his police senior officers have no control over their subordinates.

"Masakit man sabihin pero inaamin ko na marami kaming junior officers na siga, bastos, undisciplined... depende sa degree of influence," Dela Rosa said during the Senate investigation when asked on why Senior Police Officer4 (SPO4) Roy Villegas is afraid of Senior Police Officer3 Ricky Sta. Isabel. The PNP Chief said that Villegas was merely following the instructions of Sta. Isabel on the Korean-kidnap-murder. Both Villegas and Sta. Isabel are implicated in the said crime.
Press Release

January 27, 2017 Hontiveros: Death penalty under a weak justice system will give Filipinos another spectre to fear Akbayan Senator Risa Hontiveros publicly opposed moves to reinstate capital punishment in the Philippines. Speaking before 100 leaders of the Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches (PCEC) on Friday, Hontiveros said that death penalty combined with extrajudicial killings will create a new wave of fear among Filipinos. "Extrajudicial killings together with constitutional killing brought about by death penalty will only add to the growing climate of fear and impunity in the country. It will further undermine the people's human rights, particularly the right to life," Hontiveros said. The neophyte senator explained that the government's plan to reimpose the death penalty contradicts its supposed rehabilitation and reformation programs for convicted drug users and criminals. "The broad scope of crimes punishable by death, including the mere possession of illegal drugs, is extremely bothering. What is therefore the point of building a mega-drug rehabilitation center in Nueva Ecija if the government wants all the drug dependents killed anyway? Hontiveros also said that she can't imagine how the death penalty will work under the country's weak justice system which is prone to abuse and corruption. "According to government data, from 1993 to 2004, 71 % of death penalty convictions have either been modified or revoked. This comes from an automatic review of the Supreme Court. Now imagine if the review procedure was not there? How many innocent loves would have been lost," Hontiveros remarked. Hontiveros said that one of the best ways to protect the people from crime is to radically reform the country's justice system. "Ang kailagan natin ay mga batas at isang sistema na nagtatanggol at nagpapabuti sa buhay ng tao, hindi pumapatay," Hontiveros said. "Proper and modern law enforcement, including standing behind the protection of human rights and observance of the rule of law, are the best methods to protect the people from crime and illegal drugs. A fast, fair and working justice system is the more effective deterrent against crime," Hontiveros concluded.
Press Release

January 28, 2017 Bam to PNP, DOJ: Join forces in fight against rogue cops Sen. Bam Aquino urged the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) to work together to get rid of rogue policemen who put the law enforcement agency in bad light. Sen. Bam said the PNP should not just relieve erring policemen from their posts but dismiss them from service while the DOJ must actively pursue criminal cases filed against them. The senator believes this two-pronged approach will help instill fear among scalawags to stop their illegal activities and restore the public's confidence in the organization. "Iyong paghahain ng criminal case ang kailangang bantayan. May kayang gawin ang PNP pero dapat umaksiyon din ang Justice Department at iba pang kasamang agency para makasuhan sa korte criminally ang isang pulis," Sen. Bam said in a radio interview. "Palagay ko iyon ang hinahanap ng tao, na hindi lang administrative o na-shuffle kundi masampahan sila ng kasong kriminal," he added. Sen. Bam also renewed his call to the PNP to weed out from their ranks bad elements who capitalize on the government's intensified war against illegal drugs for their personal gains. "The controls need to be stronger. Inamin naman ng PNP na ang paglilinis is now a bigger priority dahil nakikita nila na may magsasamantala sa nangyayaring giyera kontra droga," Sen. Bam said. "Kailangan nating ibalik ang tiwala ng tao sa PNP. Siguraduhin natin na wala nang mangyayari pang ganito at tiyakin na ang mga taong gumawa ng masama ay makulong at managot," the lawmaker added. As a means to eradicate bad elements in the PNP, Sen. Bam said he has filed a measure that will strengthen the Internal Affairs Service (IAS) of the PNP. Sen. Bam said Senate Bill No. 1285 or the PNP Internal Affairs Service Modernization Act will help instill better discipline and performance among policemen as they spearhead the fight against widespread proliferation of illegal drugs and other crimes. "It is of utmost importance to ensure that all members of the PNP Police clamp down on crime and corruption while fully abiding by the law," Sen. Bam said. The bill was endorsed by the IAS and was subsequently filed by Sen. Aquino to help the PNP's efforts to get rid of bad eggs in the organization. The measure strengthens the Internal Affairs Service (IAS) of the Philippine National Police (PNP), with provisions for autonomy and independence in its administration and operations. It mandates an IAS organization to instill discipline and enhance the performance of personnel and units of the Philippine National Police at all levels of its command.
STATEMENT OF SEN. PANGILINAN ON GOV'T CALL TO REMOVE JOMA SISON FROM TERROR LIST

We support the Duterte administration's call to remove the name of Jose Ma. "Joma" Sison, founding chairperson of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), from the United States' list of international terrorists.

This de-listing would pave the way for his return to the Philippines and a swift resolution in the peace talks. This move is a gesture of the government's good faith to ending the long-standing armed conflict between the government and the CPP-NPA-NDF (National Democratic Front).

We also laud the two parties in continuing the peace negotiations despite possible complications, including a recent firefight between government forces and the New People's Army (NPA).

The decades-long hostilities plaguing our nation have cost countless lives and the country's progress. We would love to see the day that all Filipinos, regardless of political beliefs, become united as one people. It is time for our nation to heal and have peace.
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Every dog has its day, but only one would come out on top Saturday at the Golden Gate Kennel Club Dog Show.

The annual competition is the self-proclaimed premier benched dog show on the West Coast, which meant general spectators paid 15 bucks not only to see the canines compete, but to also interact with them outside of the ring in benches organized by breed.

At the Cow Palace arena, right over the Daly City-San Francisco border, 1,174 pure-bred pooches from 134 breeds sought the coveted titles of Best Dog in Show on Saturday or Best Puppy in Show, which would be decided after Sundays events, which will begin at 8 a.m. and run through the afternoon.

The matriarch of the whole affair was perhaps 97-year-old Jeanne Bobbitt, a retired handler who teaches obedience classes in San Francisco. She walked through the arena, wooden cane in hand, to support several of her clients who were competing with their pets.

Dogs love the competition. You can tell because of the way they move when theyre down there, Bobbitt said, looking out at the ring. Every one of these dogs was bred to do a job.

Some owners came out just to marvel at the sport, with no dog in the race, so to speak. Others were professionals, like Sharon Wong, trying for a win.

Olive Oil, Wongs Giant Schnauzer with dark black fur, was poised to compete in the first elimination round of the day, and groomed to perfection.

Shes ready. See that? Wong said, opening Olive Oils mouth to expose her teeth.

Beautiful, Bobbitt said.

After nearly 30 years handling Schnauzers, Wong compares them to her own kin.

These are really, really fun. Theyre good companions, Wong said. Its like a child. You have to put exercise and discipline in. You have to have boundaries. Otherwise ...

You have an unruly kid, Bobbitt chimed in.

The dogs were divided into seven categories: There were sporting dogs, which include gregarious golden retrievers like Air Bud, and working dogs, including industrious Great Danes like Scooby Doo. There were also terriers, such as the famous Cairn terrier Toto from The Wizard of Oz, and non-sporting dogs like the beloved pups from 101 Dalmatians.

Not to forget about toy dogs, like the Taco Bell Chihuahua, or herding dogs like Queen Elizabeths Pembroke Welsh corgis.

And of course there were hound dogs  not of the Elvis variety  like the famous Peanuts beagle, Snoopy.

Spectators could find their pick of the whole bunch outside of the ring at the benching area, where the dogs were on display.

Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Updated to include drought zones while tracking water shortage status of your area, plus reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts.

In the grooming area, Breccan, an Irish red and white setter, stood still as his owner, Arleen Wilson, blew his fur with an hose-shaped air dryer while brushing him at the same time.

Hes spoiled, Wilson said. Every night he sleeps on the bed.

But Wilsons friend Paula Rinch, who came out to help her with Breccan, made sure to add that he isnt lazy.

He works for a living, she said. Hes not just some pretty boy. He has to earn his Kibble.

But the whole event was really a way for dog fans to come together. Katie Smart, 29, came from Sacramento, wearing a shirt that said, Im here to pet all the dogs as she walked from breed to breed.

We just are dog lovers, said Smart, who brought her sister to the event.  Theyre just so friendly and cuddly, and mans best friend, you know?

Jenna Lyons is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jlyons@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @JennaJourno
San Franciscos Mid-Market  that long-blighted zone now starting to boom  has just survived a narrow escape.

The close call was at Eighth and Market streets, where a slab of 500 apartments was approved in 2006 as part of a larger project. After a prolonged effort to water down the dense but dynamic design, the developers have turned back the clock and embraced their original scheme.

Ill withhold a verdict until something gets built and we learn if reality matches the renderings. Still, the undone bait-and-switch shows the value of a planning system often faulted for being too fussy. More ominously, it hints at the dangers facing San Francisco and other cities where long-term urban design values are minimized by politicians in search of bargaining chips.

If nothing else, the 17-story box that would stand across from the Orpheum Theatre at 1177 Market deserves scrutiny as the final chunk of the citys largest apartment complex constructed since World War II, Trinity Place.

For nearly 50 years the 4.5-acre site was home to a motel converted to apartments in the late 1970s. Now, two boxy structures of 24 and 22 stories holding 858 apartments form a cliff along Mission Street. A 19-story L-shaped mass facing Eighth Street is midway through construction and should open next year with 541 apartments. Forget the tawdry scenes nearby on Mission Street and at United Nations Plaza  at Trinity Place, unfurnished junior one bedrooms start at $2,775.

Within this context, the fourth phase of Trinity Properties master plan might seem like a straightforward finale. In fact, its the most important piece of the puzzle.

The full complex is conceived by Arquitectonica of Miami as a super-size urban collage, adorned by overlapping grids of concrete and glass. The south-facing facades have a freeway-friendly scale. Along Market Street, though, the idea was to break things down while adding layers of stacked drama  including an eight-story, portal-like opening from the sidewalk into the shop-lined plaza between the final two buildings.

We wanted to start with something very graphic and pure compared to the background of San Francisco, and then the composition changes personality from one building to the next, said Bernardo Fort-Brescia, co-founder and lead designer of Arquitectonica, which has 10 offices on four continents. By the time it reaches Market Street, were trying to create a more subtle streetscape.

The first phase, a sharp-looking bookend of sorts with the narrow edge facing Mission Street, opened in 2010 with interlocked patterns of beige concrete and silvery metal hovering above a six-story glass base. The phase that followed in 2013 looks washed-out, bleak rather than brash, the silver panels replaced by gray precast concrete. The piece now under construction has more flair  better tailored, so to speak  but theres no hiding that its (formidable) filler between the main attractions.

This is why the Market Street end of Trinity Place is so important  and why the changes sought in recent months were so troubling.

On the citys best-known thoroughfare, where Mid-Market moves past U.N. Plaza to the re-energized blocks that hold such firms as Twitter and Dolby Laboratories, you need something monumental yet spirited. Instead, the development team sought to water down everything that made the original scheme compelling.

The eight-story portal became a one-story passage beneath glassed-in corridors. An eye-catching void above Eighth and Market  as if a tall rectangle had been carved out below the roofline  was filled. Easier to build, no doubt, but a shift that would have completed the metamorphosis of Trinity Place into an all but walled-off compound, which may be what the owners would prefer.

Fortunately, the Planning Department refused to let the approved designs be diluted. And on Friday, Fort-Brescia met with planning staff to present a revision that, essentially, is 2006 all over again. The portal is back, as is the cantilever above the void. The storefronts along Market are more varied, and theres room for a two-level grocery store that would connect to the concourse at the Civic Center BART Station.

We think its a comfortable and fitting update. ... Theyd gone quite a bit off the mark, Jeff Joslin, the citys director of current planning, said after the meeting. As for the fine-tuning on the ground and elsewhere, the newest changes are modest but meaningful.

Walter Schmidt, the executive managing director at Trinity Properties, on Friday downplayed any desire to undercut the initial scheme. Market Street has changed so much the past few years, he said. We have the opportunity to do something really special, and were seizing it.

Fort-Brescia characterizes last years model as the normal discussions that occur when a master plan nears completion  many developers look at many options. And in a way, hes right: Approved concepts often are tweaked as groundbreaking draws near. But with a project this large, the details are all-important.

Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Updated to include drought zones while tracking water shortage status of your area, plus reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts.

And why is Trinity Place so large? Thats where politics come in.

The first version of the project surfaced in 2003 with 1,410 units but was blocked by tenant advocates upset by the potential loss of the 360 rent-controlled units in the old motel. By the time the Board of Supervisors gave its blessing in 2007, the deal had been altered so that the rent-controlled units (and their residents) remained, with a trade-off that allowed the complex to grow by one-third.

Liz Hafalia/The Chronicle

This is a variation of what we see now as large projects court favor at City Hall by upping the amounts of affordable housing and transit-related improvements. These are critical needs, no question. But if the buildings become an afterthought, overstuffed without conviction, were all the loser.

At Trinity Place, planners stuck to their guns rather than try to make the best of a compromised situation. Lets hope that developers of the next round of mega-projects are paying attention.

John King is The San Francisco Chronicles urban design critic. Email: jking@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @johnkingsfchron
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The archbishop of San Francisco bent his head in prayer Friday afternoon, not inside a church, but in the middle of the Tenderloin. Not at an altar, but at a bus stop.

It was the bus stop on the southeast corner of OFarrell and Larkin streets where, on Jan. 5, 61-year-old Gabriel Ramirez was beaten to death by a group of men.

Surrounded by wreaths of roses and candles flickering under a rare cloudless sky, Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone read a passage from the Gospel of Matthew and led a series of prayers.

Let us ask (God) to soften the hearts of those who attacked Gabriel, Cordileone said, his prayer punctuated by people pushing blaring speakers on shopping carts and by shouts exchanged from street to street.

The church performs memorial services for every homicide victim in the city, a spokesman for the archdiocese said. The appearance of the archbishop at one of these services is rare. The conservative head of the Catholic Church in San Francisco said he comes when his schedule permits.

Cordileone led a group of about a dozen family and friends, clustered around the bus stop amid the general racket of the neighborhood, in remembrance of Ramirez.

Im so sorry for your loss, Cordileone said to the victims girlfriend of more than eight years, Grainne OBrien.

For the 68-year-old OBrien, who from the moment she met Ramirez told him she was three years younger, the site of the bus stop was still too much to bear.

Can I sit down here and be close to him? OBrien said, gesturing to a well-worn bus stop seat through tears. I can feel him here. Im here, baby. Im here.

The circumstances around the death of Ramirez remain murky weeks after he became one of the citys first homicides of 2017. After an altercation, he was beaten by a group of four or five men  and may have fallen and struck his head on the pavement  police and witnesses said.

Ramirez was a big, burly guy, standing 6 feet 2 and towering over the diminutive OBrien, she said. He was of American Indian descent, and he had the waist-length long black hair that he would joke proved it. He played in a bluegrass band, and he was no stranger to the neighborhood bars, she said.

He went to Mass at St. Ignatius in the Inner Richmond, where OBrien would join him. And of OBrien, he was fiercely protective, said a close friend of both, John Flanagan.

Ben Haller, 71, didnt know Ramirez, and he didnt know any of the victims from similar services he had been trekking to on street corners for the past five years. Haller, who said it seems like an important thing to do for people who I dont know from Adam, noted that hed rarely seen such a turnout.

And though Ramirez was American Indian, Irish blood courses through most of the people closest to him, whom he left behind. He and OBrien would often hold court with their friends at the nearby Irish Castle Shop on Geary Street where OBrien helped out. Some requested prayers for Ramirez throughout their homeland of Ireland.

The proprietor, Orla OMalley Daly, said Ramirez was a rough guy, but he had a very good heart, adding that he was never hesitant to step in and help her deal with the neighborhoods tougher characters.

A homeless woman sidled up to the bus stop. She sat down next to OBrien, and she pointed to the faint blood spots that were still all too visible on the street.

OBrien clutched her hat, then her heart. Then she asked if she could do anything for the woman, who replied, Well, I am pretty hungry.

The woman Ramirez left behind reached into her purse, pulled out a handful of ones.

Its what Gabriel would have done, after all, she said.

Michael Bodley is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: mbodley@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @michael_bodley
Thousands of security officers who work on hundreds of sites in Silicon Valley, including at Facebook, Cisco and Genentech, have unionized to push for higher wages and better benefits, SEIU United Service Workers West, a union that represents California workers, announced Saturday.

The 3,000 security officers are employed at G4S, Allied Universal, Cypress Private Security and Securitas, firms that provide security services on a contract basis to other businesses. The officers earn an hourly wage in the $12 to $20 range, not enough to live comfortably in the Bay Area, union officials said. Roughly 600 are located at Facebook and work for Allied Universal; others work at Google, Adobe and Qualcomm, among others.

I like my job, but it doesnt pay enough to take care of a family in the Silicon Valley, said Jiovanny Martinez, a 29-year-old Allied Universal security officer who works at Facebook.

Martinez, who makes $18 an hour, said he lives in a three-bedroom home with eight other people in San Jose. He pays $600 a month  a portion of the houses rent. Martinez, his wife and his two young daughters live in one of the bedrooms.

More service workers are pushing for higher wages and benefits. In 2015, unionized shuttle drivers transporting Facebook employees approved a contract that would raise their salaries from $18 to $24.50 an hour. That spurred other tech bus drivers to push for similar contracts.

Google, Apple and other companies have tried to bring their security staff in-house, which would provide more job stability. It is unclear how many security officers Google has employed in-house. The SEIU said some of the 3,000 security officers who joined the union do contract work at Google.

Google, Facebook and Qualcomm declined to comment. Apple, Genentech and Adobe did not respond to requests.

In 2015, Facebook said it would require its vendors to meet certain standards, including paying service workers at least $15 an hour and giving them at least 15 paid days off. If vendors do not offer paid parental leave, Facebook gives $4,000 bonus to parents for each new child.

Martinez said those vendor requirements did help workers, but more needs to be done.

I would hope with higher pay, we will finally have our own place, he said. He would like to see his pay go up to $27 an hour.

Some tech companies, including Cisco, are raising wages. In November, the company raised the wages of its vendors service workers at California facilities to at least $15 an hour.

Workers affected include security officers, landscapers and shipping clerks. The company said it respects the rights of workers to organize.

Given the high cost of living in areas of California, we believe this is the right thing to do, the company said of the wage raise. We want to allow our vendors to pay their employees fairly for the important work they do.

Cypress CEO Kes Narbutas said his security firm, along with others, signed a memorandum of understanding that they would not interfere with employees choosing to organize. That memorandum applies to Silicon Valley workers.

Were a responsible employer and responsible company, Narbutas said. We have had good relationships with SEIU for many years, and we kind of recognized that they can be effective in terms of representing our employees.

G4S did not respond to a request for comment. Allied Universal said it respects its employees legal right to choose to be part of a union. Securitas declined to comment.

Wendy Lee is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: wlee@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @thewendylee
Congress has bestowed enormous tax breaks on homeownership, so its not surprising that some of these breaks could be on the chopping block if President Trump and Congress get serious about tax reform.

The Trump administration showed it was not afraid to tick off Realtors associations when, within hours of the inauguration, it indefinitely suspended a planned cut in the annual mortgage insurance premium on Federal Housing Administration loans.

Trump and House Republicans have both issued plans that, they say, would chop corporate and individual income tax rates and simplify the tax code. Both would reduce the number of individual tax brackets to three  12, 25 and 33 percent. Today there are seven, ranging from 10 to 39.6 percent. The problem is how to payfor it.

House Republicans are using the plan put out last summer by Speaker Paul Ryan as a basis to start talking about tax reform, said Mark Luscombe, principal analyst with Wolters Kluwer Tax & Accounting.

The influential Tax Policy Center, a joint venture of the Urban Institute and the Brookings Institution, estimated that Trumps plan would reduce federal revenue by $6.2 trillion over the first decade, while the House Republican plan would reduce it by $3.1 trillion, both before interest costs and macroeconomic effects.

The Tax Foundation pegged the costs over the first decade at $4.4 trillion to $5.9 trillion for the Trump plan and at $2.4 trillion for the House plan, both before macroeconomic impacts.

Although neither plan puts a direct hit on homeownership, Paul Ryan has said that any tax bill they do will not add to the debt. They are going to be undertaking a very aggressive search for ways to pay for their tax-rate cuts. That search is almost certainly going to include the tax preferences for home buyers, said Howard Gleckman, a senior fellow with the Tax Policy Center. Whether they survive the ax is impossible to know.

Heres a look at some of those tax breaks, and whats afoot.

Mortgage interest deduction: Current law allows homeowners to deduct interest on up to $1 million in mortgage debt used to purchase, construct or improve their principal residence and one other home. They can also deduct interest on up to $100,000 in additional debt secured by a home but used for other purposes. (People subject to alternative minimum dont get the additional $100,000 deduction for home-equity debt.)

Neither plan would eliminate the mortgage interest deduction. In fact the House plan calls for eliminating most itemized deductions except mortgage interest and charitable deductions. But other aspects of the plans could change the value of this deduction.

Trumps plan would limit all itemized deductions combined to $100,000 for single filers and $200,000 for married couples filing jointly. That cap could apply to some high-end homeowners, Gleckman said.

More significantly, both plans would roughly double the standard deduction that taxpayers can take in lieu of itemizing deductions. Trump would increase the standard deduction to $30,000 for joint filers and to $15,000 for singles. This year they are $12,700 and $6,350, respectively.

That means a married couple would need at least $30,000 in mortgage interest and other deductions to make it worth itemizing.

Today, only about 30 percent of taxpayers itemize, Gleckman said. If you doubled the standard deduction, that number probably would fall to 10 percent nationwide.

In choosing whether to rent or buy, the mortgage interest deduction plays a role, probably too large. People assume there is a greater benefit than there is, said Ed Mills, an analyst with FBR & Co. If you double the standard deduction and lower tax rates, the mortgage interest deduction becomes less impactful for the average taxpayer.

Property tax deduction: Current law lets taxpayers write off state and local taxes, including property taxes, as an itemized deduction. (State and local taxes are not deductible under the alternative minimum tax, which generally speaking hits people with about $200,000 to $500,000 in income. The Trump and Ryan plans would both eliminate the AMT.)

The Trump plan would keep the deduction for state and local taxes, while limiting all itemized deductions combined to $100,000/$200,000. However, if the standard deduction is doubled, the property tax deduction  like the mortgage interest deduction  could become a less important factor in the buy-or-rent decision.

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The state and local tax deduction mainly benefits people in high-tax states, such as California, New York, New Jersey, Illinois, which happen to be blue states. Kevin Brady, the Republican chairman of the tax-writing House Ways and Means Committee, comes from Texas, which doesnt have a state income tax, Mills said.

Mortgage insurance deduction: In years past, homeowners could deduct the premiums they pay on mortgage insurance. That generally is required when buyers put down less than 20 percent of the purchase price. This is one of those deductions that expires each year and is then renewed retroactively the next year. It expired at the end of 2016 and has not been renewed. Neither plan mentions this deduction.

Capital gains exclusion: Under current law, when homeowners sell their primary residence, they pay no capital gains tax on the first $250,000 in profit if single or $500,000 if married. Anything over those limits is taxed as a capital gain, at a top federal rate of 23.5 percent.

There is no direct discussion of the capital gains exclusion in either plan, Luscombe said.

The Ryan plan calls for taxing only half of capital gains (along with dividends and interest) at the same rate as ordinary income. That effectively would reduce the top capital gains rate to 16.5 percent (half of 33 percent).

My assumption is it would survive unless they start crunching numbers and are short of revenue to pay for tax cuts, Luscombe says.

The bottom line: Although neither plan directly goes after real estate, capping itemized deductions would nibble away at high-end real estate while increasing the standard deduction would nibble away at the lower end, said Alan Cole, an analyst with the Tax Foundation. You should expect some opposition from the real estate industry, although it will be less ferocious than if the plans attacked homeownership directly.

Kathleen Pender is a San Francisco Chronicle columnist. Email: kpender@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @kathpender
Wed glimpsed the new Curran when Fences was screened there, so we knew it was sumptuous. And we knew Fun Home was a Tony Award-winning hit in New York, so we attended the local opening Thursday, Jan. 26, with high expectations. All was borne out ... in addition to some surprises, indicators of changing times:

Approaching the theater, one came first upon the Riordan High School Marching Band, five sousaphones strong, a great festive touch. But I didnt realize the significance of their presence until reader Richard Goldman commented on Facebook the next morning: Really, really nice to have the band from a diocesan, all-boys Catholic high school established by the Society of Mary in San Francisco help open the new Curran, and welcome the most queer/lesbian multiple-Tony Award-winning musical of our time! Hooray for the City of Love!

In keeping with that, Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom spoke from the stage before the performance. In San Francisco, he said, We dont tolerate our diversity. We celebrate our diversity. This assertion referred not only to the show we were about to see but also to the events of the week, which were underlined by Oskar Eustis, artistic director of New Yorks Public Theater, where Fun Home got its start. Theater is now and will always be a sanctuary, Eustis said.

Now and always about invention, too: Carole Shorenstein Hays  whose two children, Gracie and Wally, are working with her, as is her husband, Jeff Hays  plans to make theater available to young audiences. On Friday, Jan. 27, there was a special noontime performance for kids in schools, public and private. The Currans official house program was not Playbill, but instead was produced by McSweeneys, founded by Dave Eggers. His program essay is about the new Tenderloin home of 826 Valencia, his tutoring program for young people, which is supported by the Curran. Shorenstein Hays, who was instrumental in founding a ReDesigning Theater project at Stanford University, seems determined to not only redesign the Curran (physically) but also redefine its role in public life.

In the lobby after the performance, architect Cathy Simon (who had also presided over the renovations of the Ferry Building and the San Francisco Conservatory of Music), said she felt lucky because so many of my projects have made a difference in the community. This is particularly gratifying because of whats happening to the arts in this country, she said. Engrossed by the play, Simon said, for two hours, I didnt have to think about the news.

Standing next to her was choreographer Margaret Jenkins, who said she could feel the appetite of everybody to be uplifted. That particular craving having been satisfied, the crowd moved up the street to the Clift hotel for an after-party where more everyday appetites were sated.

Leah Garchik/San Francisco Chronicle

Meanwhile, at the opening of the Contemporary Jewish Museums Cary Leibowitz: Museum Show on Wednesday, Jan. 25, guests wolfed down latkes, hot dogs and beer, and gobbled up the self-deprecating, sardonic, mordant, kitsch/sincere art made by Leibowitz. The New York artists love of words means there are signs all over the place, most of them offering contradictory statements: Applaud next to Appalled, for example; Dont hate me because Im mediocre; Stop copying me.

What you come away with is something like a selfie by a self-loving, self-hating person. The museums executive director, Lori Starr, described it as an inner monologue, because Jewish people (Id say this is true for anyone whos self-aware) are always telling themselves that they are not good enough. Leibowitz, she added, makes art that celebrates that feeling of uncertainty.

The show was curated by Anastasia James, who was at the opening despite having given birth to her first child, Winter, only a week before. Thats a joyous moment in a womans life, and I asked about its juxtaposition with an exhibition that peers into the shadows of self-awareness.

I think its optimistic, witty and fun, James said. Everyone that comes in has a smile on their face, even if the humor is dark. The artist himself described the mood of his work as always a push pull. Theres part of me that wallows in my misery and a part of me that doesnt.

The show was supported with a $125,000 grant to the museum  for a two-year period that includes this show and other programs  from the Andy Warhol Foundation. It was the largest grant outside of New York that the foundation made in 2016.

Leah Garchik is open for business in San Francisco, (415) 777-8426. Email: lgarchik@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @leahgarchik

Public Eavesdropping

The checker just asked me if I wanted a dime bag. Is Safeway a pot dispensary now, too?

Silver-haired gentleman at Safeway on Mission Street, overheard by Dave Frazer
Whenever I tell people that I cook and write about food for a living, the question inevitably comes up.

So, they ask, whats your specialty?

Ive never had a satisfying answer. Id shrug, mentioning my love of Indian food or the millions of ways Ive mastered, upon becoming a mother of two, some combination of butter and noodle. Most often, Id reply that my specialty was home food, a broad and meaningless descriptor meaning the food I cooked at home.

A little over a year ago, I signed a contract with the book publisher Little, Brown to write my first solo cookbook, Repertoire, due out in spring 2018. (I have some experience in the cookbook realm; Ive co-authored five of them.) As I wrote the proposal, I realized that what Id been calling home food was actually something quite different: It was a repertoire.

The recipes that I cook year in, year out  the backbone of my cooking life  may at first seem like a random compilation: curried noodles, a blueberry-maple upside down cake, flank steak with salsa verde, bucatini allAmatriciana. But upon closer inspection, the recipes that comprise my own repertoire arent random at all. Theyre the keepers, the ones Ive made so many times I can do them with my eyes closed.

Like a musician, these are the pieces I know how to perform, and I perform them often. Repertoire recipes are what I serve for both weeknight suppers and dinner parties, the meals that I feed my two young sons. They are real recipes, from real life, and they really work  durable enough for fledgling cooks but satisfying enough for the more experienced. I think they prove that home cooks dont need hundreds of recipes in their arsenal but only a few dozen, and the freedom that cooking them frequently gives you.

This column is intended to help you develop your own repertoire. These are recipes you can lean into, made to be repeated and riffed on, recipes that Ive developed in my own home kitchen with you in mind, without fancy equipment or ingredients.

Liz Hafalia/The Chronicle

A dozen years ago, when I moved to San Francisco from Boston, Paul Bertollis Cooking by Hand was one of the first cookbooks I picked up. Bertolli had cemented his reputation as a forefather of California-Italian cuisine, and his book introduced me to Neapolitan beef ragu, a piece of chuck braised in tomato sauce until fork-tender. I latched onto the idea and have made my version of it often.

The ingredients are few; the technique is basic. Time and low heat do most of the work, and what work it is  transforming a tough cut into something supple, and imbuing the sauce with deep savor. But the genius part of this recipe, especially for the time-strapped among us, is that its actually two dinners in one.

For the first meal, serve the sliced beef with some cooked winter greens and polenta alongside. Then, for a second, simpler supper, toss that enriched tomato sauce with pasta and bury it under a snowdrift of grated Parmigiano-Reggiano. The recipe works equally well with pork shoulder; you could add basil instead of rosemary, or swap the red wine for chicken stock. The braised beef benefits from being made a day ahead, and the sauce can be frozen for up to three months. People often call that freezer-stocking money in the bank, but its actually something much better: a promise of another home-cooked meal, just as good as the first.

Jessica Battilana is a San Francisco freelance writer. Email: food@sfchronicle.com

Tomato-Braised Beef

Serves 6

3 to 4 pounds beef chuck, in one piece

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium yellow onion, peeled and finely diced

1 medium carrot, peeled and finely diced

1 stalk celery, finely diced

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3 tablespoons tomato paste

1 cup dry red wine or chicken stock

2 (28 ounce) cans whole peeled tomatoes

10 garlic cloves, peeled

1 sprig rosemary

Instructions: Preheat the oven to 275 degrees. Season the beef generously on all sides with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven or other heavy-bottom pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the beef (it should sizzle gently) and sear, turning as needed, until browned on all sides, about 10 to 15 minutes total. Transfer the beef to a rimmed baking sheet and add the onion, carrot and celery to the Dutch oven. Cook, stirring, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 6 minutes. Add the tomato paste and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes more.

Pour in the wine, increase the heat to medium-high and bring to a boil. Boil until the liquid has reduced by half, about 5 minutes. Pour the tomatoes into a bowl and, using your hands, coarsely crush. Add 4 cups of the crushed tomatoes to the pot (reserve the remaining 2 cups tomatoes) and stir to combine, then stir in the garlic.

Return the meat to the pot and tuck the rosemary sprig in alongside it. When the tomato sauce begins to simmer, remove from the heat. Cover the pot with a sheet of parchment paper, then the lid on top. Transfer to the oven. Let cook for about 30 minutes, then uncover and check; the liquid around the beef should be simmering gently. If its bubbling vigorously, reduce the oven temperature to 250 degrees.

Re-cover and continue to cook, turning the meat every hour or so, until the beef is fork-tender but not falling apart, about 3 hours. If the sauce looks too thick, add some of the remaining tomatoes. (To make ahead, cool to room temperature and then refrigerate, covered, for up to 2 days. Skim the fat from the surface of the braise with a spoon, then reheat, covered, in a low oven until heated through, about 30 minutes.)

With two large spoons, transfer the beef to a rimmed baking sheet. Let the tomato sauce sit until the fat rises to the surface, then use a spoon to skim off and discard. Season the sauce to taste with additional salt. Remove the rosemary sprig. You can leave the sauce with a rustic texture, or you can use an immersion or tabletop blender (or a food mill) to blend until smooth.

Transfer the beef to a cutting board and cut into thick slices, then transfer to a platter and spoon some of the sauce on top and alongside the meat. Serve warm. Surplus sauce will keep, refrigerated, for up to 3 days, or can be cooled and frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or break into chunks and reheat gently over low heat in a saucepan.
The Market, San Franciscos upscale food emporium on Market Street, continues to add new vendors within its walls as it shifts from grocery store to food hall.

Sushi Mara and Manila Bowl, both slated to open in early February, are the latest in a string of new tenants that includes Southern Californias Poke Bar, fried-chicken chain the Organic Coup and Oaklands Doughnut Dolly.

This collection is meant to cater to hungry San Franciscans ever-increasing desire for quality prepared meals that are fast, fresh and varied.

When the upscale food emporium opened in 2014 on the ground floor of the Twitter building, it was touted as a Northern California farm-to-table answer to Eataly, Mario Batalis popular New York food destination. Since then, the Mid-Market area has struggled with an identity crisis of sorts, and amid a wave of nearby restaurant closures, the multimillion-dollar marketplace has felt its own growing pains.

However, the retailer says that with continued tweaks, it is turning a corner toward success.

We did a great job of learning from our mistakes in our first year and smoothing out those bumps, says the Markets general manager Zae Perrin. Right now were seeing records of throughput (the number of guests) and dollars.

Where previously it saw foot traffic of 2,500 to 3,000 people per day, Perrin says its now seeing nearly 7,000 per day. With the opening of the new stalls, he expects that number to grow. According to Perrin, the Market saw comparable growth in sales over the same period last year of about 36 percent.

This string of new vendors is just one part of the Markets strategy.

John Storey / Special to the Chronicle 2017

Early last year, the Market shifted focus by cutting its grocery offerings and increasing the amount of prepared foods from independent vendors, including working with culinary incubator La Cocina to overhaul its hot bar and salad bar to showcase smaller, more diverse offerings: Mexican food from El Pipila, Nepalese food from Binis Kitchen and Mayalasian food from Azalinas, which has had a stall in the back corner of the Market since its opening.

Three months ago, the Market introduced a selection of lifestyle items  cookbooks, bar sets and cocktail mixers. A drink while you shop program launched last summer allows clientele over age 21 to enjoy a glass of beer or wine while wandering the aisles. There are now more seating areas where customers can eat in the space.

The Markets Culinary Director Mario Tolentino and Perrin say plans are in the works to redo the cafe located at the front of the Market so it will have a European cafe-style menu, and to incorporate a cook-to-order program in the butchery department. Theyre also expanding the refrigerated and frozen-foods section.

Perrin says the Market is revisiting plans to launch a second location on Polk Street, which had previously stalled. A decision is expected by the end of winter or early spring.

We just need to make sure we open it the right way, Perrin says. One thing we dont want to do is learn on the fly like we did here. We went through nine different iterations. We really want to make sure we deliver the product we have now with everything we open in the future.

John Storey/Special to the Chronicle

While many of these tweaks seem designed to entice the young tech crowd that increasingly dominates the neighborhood, the Market does seem mindful of concerns that new developments are neglecting the neighborhoods longtime population.

Youre covering all the demographics of San Francisco with the Market here, Tolentino says. As a San Francisco native, I dont take that lightly. Were dedicated to providing something for everyone. Not just catering to one type of demographic in this area. Its a microcosm of San Francisco in general.

A good example of this mind-set is Manila Bowl. Partners Aris Tuazon and Jim Harvey Sy, who also own restaurants in New York City, say they were looking for a space to open their quick-service Filipino restaurant where fans of the food  as well as those unfamiliar with Filipino cuisine  could find them. What makes the Market the right spot, they say, is not only that its surrounded by high-profile tech companies and high-rise residences, but that its located in San Franciscos recently designated Filipino heritage district, SoMa Pilipinas.

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Not everyone has been happy with the Markets changes.

Russell Yip/The Chronicle

For Azalina Eusope, owner of Azalinas, the entire idea of the Market has shifted in so many ways that she feels her stall is now in limbo  not quite a part of the market, not quite separate.

Its definitely changed into a mini food court, says Eusope. She notes that the original intent for her stall was to be more of a stand-alone space, similar to neighboring ground-floor restaurant Dirty Water, albeit on a smaller scale. While Eusope says her 400-square-foot stall does fairly well, foot traffic remains a concern: People dont always make their way to the back. Since were not sticking out, people cant see it, she says.

But Eusope agrees that ultimately, what the Markets core audience seems to want is prepared convenience. With us, we see the folks that come and eat at our place are usually single people (and) young couples who work a lot and dont want to cook, she says.

As Tolentino points out, the shift at the Market reflects more than just an evolving Mid-Market neighborhood  it serves as a mirror for San Franciscos changing food desires. More and more, people want their meals quick, convenient and ready-to-go. They want diverse and thoughtfully curated offerings that dont break the bank. The key  for the Market, as well as other San Francisco food businesses  is to strike a balance and not leave others in a state of limbo.

Sarah Fritsche is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: sfritsche@sfchronicle.com Twitter/Instagram: @foodcentric
STEPHEN CROWLEY/NYT

In his first week in office, President Trump signed a stack of executive orders reshaping American foreign and domestic policy. The new president clearly enjoyed the political theater of clearing away the old with the stroke of his pen before adoring supporters. Theres little for Californians to applaud, however.

First, the wall. Now we know who will pay for the $12 billion border security fence Trump wants to extend along the U.S.-Mexico border. We will.
The Berkeley couple found dead in their apartment under mysterious circumstances Monday were true Renaissance people who used technology to both inform and entertain, their relatives and friends said.

Roger Morash, 35, and Valerie Morash, 32, both graduates of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, were found dead by a friend visiting the couple Monday afternoon, according to the Berkeley Police Department.

Police said they found no signs of foul play at the residence  where two dead cats were also discovered  baffling investigators who initially ruled out common suspicions such as carbon monoxide poisoning. Police havent released a cause of death.

The couple were married for more than eight years, according to a statement compiled by their family and friends, ever since they met as undergraduates at MIT.

Val and Roger were two bright suns, pulling friends into their orbit and showering them with love and support, the statement said. In their short lives, Val and Roger accomplished much more and touched many more people than others do in much longer lifetimes.

The two moved to Berkeley in 2006, where Val, as her friends knew her, received her doctorate in psychology, as well as a masters in statistics. After graduation, she started researching vision impairment at the Smith-Kettlewell Eye Research Institute, which is based in San Francisco.

In a statement, the eye institute said Val was a wonderful person who breathed not only scientific brilliance but empathy and good humor into everything she did.

At the institute, Val explored subjects other people did not, her employer said, such as the best method to read braille  one hand or two, one finger or a combination  as well as the best way for blind people to learn about and interact with objects.

Roger, who began his career in video game development, launched his own indie game company, Glug Glug, in 2011, where he started working on a game all his own.

Before that, he helped develop the high-selling Rock Band Series for Cambridge, Mass.-based Harmonix.

Ryan Lesser, a co-worker of Rogers at Harmonix, called him one of the smartest and most talented developers I have ever met, adding that the company lost a family member.

Outside of work, the couple were known for their scientific curiosity  an urge to understand how things worked and how to make them better  that led Val to experiment with 3D printers and Roger to create and solve some of the worlds toughest puzzles.

Michael Bodley is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: mbodley@sfchronicle.com. Twitter: @michael_bodley
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The archbishop of San Francisco said Friday afternoon that the Catholic Church is mobilizing to help immigrants without documentation brace for President Trumps crackdown.

Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone said the church will ensure that immigrants know their rights and will be protected.

Cordileone made his comments while conducting a prayer service at a bus stop where Gabriel Ramirez, a 61-year-old man, was slain earlier this month. The man, who identified as Native American, died after a beating by a group of men and Cordileones appearance was part of a prayer service routine the church holds for homicide victims.

Trump, Cordileone said with an uneasy chuckle, sure hit the ground running. He said he is troubled by the actions the president has taken on immigration.

Though not unexpected, the new policies  which include increased funding for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers and guidelines to build the long-promised wall on the Mexican border  made Cordileone nervous, he said.

We dont know whats going to happen, Cordileone said. He seems to be insisting on focusing on criminals, so hopefully the people who are here, who are working and contributing to society, can continue to be able to do so.

Immigration is a pressing issue for the Church, which has a history of sheltering and providing refuges for undocumented immigrants and families.

(Trump) is setting to do what he said he was going to do, Cordileone said.

Cordileone added that he was heartened to see the presidents support  as expressed in a Friday morning tweet  of the annual March for Life that brought thousands to D.C.s Washington Monument earlier in the day to protest abortion rights.

A sister march last week took to the streets of San Francisco for the same cause, a day that this year happened to coincide with the Womens March that filled the streets of cities all over the country.

Cordileone, no stranger to controversy for his socially conservative views that have caused flare-ups in the liberal Bay Area, acknowledged that deportations may be necessary for criminal elements, but cautioned against ICE agents purporting to target criminals and catching other undocumented people in their crosshairs.

On Thursday, a group of ICE agents mistakenly barged into a family center, with a preschool inside, in the Mission, causing first fear and then confusion amongst the neighborhoods undocumented population and then their allies  and riling up fears that raids were starting.

Michael Bodley is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: mbodley@sfchronicle.com. Twitter: @michael_bodley
Brittany Murphy/The Chronicle

The body of a 51-year-old San Francisco man was discovered in Mission Creek in the citys Mission Bay neighborhood, police said Friday.

The dead man, identified as Mark Benson by the San Francisco Office of the Medical Examiner, was found in the waters of the creek that feeds into the bay in front of the 300 block of Channel Street, police said.
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Two New York men have been accused by the Securities and Exchange Commission of defrauding investors out of millions of dollars in what the agency described as a Hamilton ticket-resale Ponzi scheme.

The SEC said Friday that Joseph Meli, 42, and Matthew Harriton, 52, persuaded at least 125 investors in 13 states to contribute a total of $81 million toward their ticket-reselling businesses.

Since at least 2015, the men told investors that they would pool the investment to purchase tickets to popular shows, such as an Adele concert and the smash hit Broadway musical Hamilton, and resell them at a profit to generate high returns, according to the SEC complaint.

A funding agreement with an investor described in the complaint refers to a deal supposedly made between one of the ticket-reselling enterprises and a Hamilton producer to purchase 35,000 tickets.

But the SEC said none of the mens ticket-reselling businesses had any legitimate agreement with that Hamilton producer and that the 35,000 tickets were never purchased with investor money.

Instead, the men allegedly diverted almost $2 million for personal expenses, such as jewelry purchases and private school and camp tuition, according to the SEC.

More for you Nearly 80,000 reportedly in 'Hamilton' ticket queue

At least $48 million of the incoming funds from investors was used to make Ponzi payments to earlier investors by using newer investors money, according to the SEC.

As alleged in our complaint, Meli and Harriton raised millions from investors by promising big profits from reselling tickets to A-list events when in reality they were moving investor money in a circle and creating a mirage of profitability, Paul Levenson, director of the SECs Boston regional office, said in a statement.

The SEC is seeking repayment of the funds received, in addition to civil monetary penalties.

In a parallel action by the U.S. attorneys office in the Southern District of New York, Meli and Steven Simmons, 48, of Wilton, Conn., were arrested Friday on charges of conspiracy, securities fraud and wire fraud for participating in an alleged Ponzi scheme that bilked investors to repay earlier investors in a hedge fund.

In a statement to the Associated Press, Michael Bowen, an attorney representing Meli, said that the complaint against Meli was not true and that he would vigorously defend against the criminal charges.

A person who answered the phone number listed to a Matthew Harriton declined to comment. Meli could not be reached for comment.

Samantha Masunaga is a Los Angeles Times writer.
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VICTORIA, Texas  An early morning fire Saturday destroyed a Texas mosque that was a target of hatred several years ago and experienced a burglary just a week ago.

A convenience store clerk spotted smoke and flames billowing from the Islamic Center of Victoria at around 2 a.m. and called the Fire Department.

Its sad to stand there and watch it collapse down, and the fire was so huge, said Shahid Hashmi, the Islamic centers president. It looks completely destroyed.

Victoria Fire Marshal Tom Legler asked for help from the Texas Fire Marshals Office and federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to determine what caused the blaze. Hashmi said authorities have told him it was too early to speculate.

None whatsoever right now, Hashmi said. We dont have any lead or information as to what started the fire and what happened. So Im sure its going to be a few days, they told us, before they can come up with any answers for us.

The structure was built in 2000.

The Victoria Advocate reported saturday that in July 2013, a man admitted to painting H8, a computer shorthand for hate, on the outside of the building. On Jan. 21, someone broke in and stole some electronics, including laptops.

Hashmi, who has lived in Victoria 32 years, said the congregation of about 140 has had few other problems and has enjoyed the support of the city.
NEW YORK  The woman at the center of the trial of Emmett Tills alleged killers has acknowledged that she falsely testified he made physical and verbal threats, according to a new book.

Historian Timothy Tyson told the Associated Press on Saturday that Carolyn Donham broke her long public silence in an interview with him in 2008. His book, The Blood of Emmett Till, comes out next week.

She told me that Nothing that boy did could ever justify what happened to him, said Tyson, a Duke University research scholar whose previous books include Blood Done Sign My Name and Radio Free Dixie.

Emmett was a black 14-year-old tortured and killed in 1955 in the Mississippi Delta after allegedly whistling at a white woman, then known as Carolyn Bryant. His murder became national news, was a galvanizing event in the civil rights movement and has been the subject of numerous books and movies. During the trial, Bryant said that he had grabbed her and, in profane terms, bragged about his history with white woman.

Donhams then-husband, Roy Bryant, and his half brother, J.W. Milam, were acquitted by the all-white jury. Both men, who later told Look magazine they did murder Emmett, have since died. Milams widow, Juanita Milam, would later tell the FBI she believed that Carolyn Bryant had fabricated her story. Juanita Milam died in 2014. The Justice Department re-examined the case a decade ago, but no one was indicted as a murderer or an accomplice.

Tyson said he spoke with Donham after her daughter-in-law, Marsha Bryant, contacted him. Bryant had read Blood Done Sign My Name, about a racist murder during his childhood in Oxford, N.C., and invited Tyson to meet with her and Donham.

Tyson said he and Donham had two conversations that both lasted two to three hours and that he planned at the time to place the material in the archives at the University of North Carolina. Asked why he waited so long to publicize his findings, he responded that historians think in different terms than do journalists.

Im more interested in what speaks to the ages than in what is the latest media thing, he said.

He added that he wasnt sure whether Donham knew about the book. He said he had fallen out of touch with the family and that when he last spoke with Bryant, a few years ago, she said Donham was in poor health.

Carolyn Donhams whereabouts have long been a mystery, but North Carolina voter rolls list a Carolyn Holloway Donham. Holloway is her maiden name.

The address is for a home in Raleigh. The well-tended house has burnt-orange shutters and a front-facing brick chimney decorated with a large metal sunburst. Orange flags emblazed with the word Google dot the lawn.

A woman, who appeared to be of late middle age, and a small barking dog appeared at the front door. When a reporter asked if this was the Bryant family home, the woman replied, Yes.

When asked if Carolyn Donham was at home, the woman replied, Shes not available.

At first, she refused to accept a business card, but relented after hearing about the upcoming book.

On Saturday, the Emmett Till Legacy Foundation shared news reports about the book on Instagram and asked if Donham would have the decency and courage to speak with Emmetts relatives.

Hillel Italie is an Associated Press writer.
1 Trump lawsuit: A judge in Maryland is allowing first lady Melania Trump to move ahead with her libel lawsuit against a blogger who reported rumors that she worked as a high-end escort. Trump sued the blogger, Webster Tarpley of Gaithersburg, as well as Britains Daily Mail newspaper. Tarpleys lawyer asked a Montgomery County Circuit Court judge to dismiss the case at a pretrial hearing Friday. Her lawyer argued that journalists cant make defamatory statements under the guise of reporting rumors. The judge rejected Tarpleys motion to dismiss but deferred ruling on a similar motion from the Daily Mail.

2 Power surge: A power surge last week in the small town of Brookville, Pa., damaged hundreds of homes and burned computers and appliances. The borough 70 miles northeast of Pittsburgh has a population of about 4,000, and at least 500 residents were affected. A spokesman for FirstEnergy said a failed power line insulator was to blame. The failure caused a flash that spread to a feeder line to Brookville.
WASHINGTON  Pushing full speed into a sweeping change of rules on refugees, President Trump on Friday ordered new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States.

Trump traveled to the Pentagon, where he joined Defense Secretary James Mattis for the signing of an executive action to bring wide-ranging changes to the nations refugee policies and put in motion his plans to build up the nations military.

Im establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America. We dont want em here, Trump declared. We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas. We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people.

During his election campaign against Hillary Clinton, Trump pledged to put in place extreme vetting procedures to screen people coming to the U.S. from countries with terrorism ties. The White House did not immediately release details on the order that Trump signed, but a draft of the order called for suspending the issuing of visas to people from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen for at least 30 days.

Sen. Kamala Harris, D-Calif., deplored the order.

Make no mistake  this is a Muslim ban, she said in a statement Friday. Broad brush discrimination against refugees and immigrants from Muslim-majority countries, most of whom are women and children, runs counter to our national security interests, and will likely be used as a terrorist recruitment tool.

Trumps call to limit refugee admissions has been denounced by human-rights groups who say vulnerable people seeking to flee religious or political persecution would be denied safe haven. Although Trump has pulled back from statements early in his presidential campaign that he would ban immigration by Muslims, critics say his policies are intended to embrace anti-Muslim sentiment and will erode Americas standing around the world.

We bomb your country, creating a humanitarian nightmare, then lock you inside, Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., said in a statement Wednesday. Thats a horror movie, not a foreign policy.

Trump has the authority to determine how many refugees are accepted annually, and he can suspend the program at any time. Refugee processing was suspended in the immediate aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks and restarted months later.

Bloomberg News contributed to this report.

Ken Thomas and Julie Pace are Associated Press writers.
WASHINGTON  President Donald Trump had an hour-long discussion Saturday with Russian President Vladimir Putin  the first since Trump assumed office  raising questions over the fate of U.S. sanctions against Moscow and whether the two will look to enhance military cooperation against the Islamic State group.

The White House provided a thin readout on the call between the two leaders, saying it was a significant start to improving the relationship between the United States and Russia that is in need of repair.

The two leaders discussed a range in topics from mutual cooperation in defeating (Islamic State) to efforts in working together to achieve more peace throughout the world including Syria, the White House statement said.

A White House official later said sanctions did not come up in Saturdays call between Trump and Putin. The official said Putin brought up several times that Islamic terrorism was a common foe for the U.S. and Russia. The official was not authorized to disclose details of the call by name and insisted on anonymity.

Contrary to statements from the White House, the Kremlin said the two leaders addressed the importance of restoring mutually beneficial trade and economic ties between business circles of the two countries.

The Kremlin also said Putin and Trump spoke in particular about international issues, including the fight against terrorism, the Arab-Israeli conflict, Irans nuclear program, the situation on the Korean peninsula and the Ukraine crisis.

Moscow has applauded Trumps promises to rebuild U.S.-Russian relations, which have been pushed to their worst level since the Cold War by the Ukraine crisis, war in Syria and allegations of Russian meddling in U.S. elections. Trump signed a presidential memorandum on the plan to defeat the Islamic State group Saturday, including in it the possibility of teaming up with new coalition partners, suggesting that pairing up with Russia on counterterrorism issues isnt off the table.

Trump was noncommittal about whether he was considering lifting the economic sanctions ahead of the call, telling reporters Friday: Well see what happens. As far as the sanctions, very early to be talking about that.

In 2014, Russia annexed Ukraines Crimea region and backed separatists fighting government forces in eastern Ukraine, drawing widespread condemnation in Europe and the United States.

In response, sanctions were implemented against sectors of Russias economy, including financial services, energy, mining and defense. The Obama administration also sanctioned people in Putins inner circle.

Shortly before leaving office, President Barack Obama also ordered sanctions on Russian spy agencies, closed two Russian compounds in the United States and expelled 35 diplomats that he said were really spies. These sanctions followed an assessment by U.S. intelligence that Moscow meddled in the 2016 election to help Trump become president.

Trumps tempered approach to U.S.-Russia relations has already raised concern among several European allies who believe keeping Russia in check is essential to regional security.

British Prime Minister Theresa May, whose country  as part of the European Union  also has punished Russia for its provocations in Ukraine, voiced the view of many in Europe, telling reporters in Washington on Friday: We believe the sanctions should continue.

Two Republican senators  Arizonas John McCain, chairman of the Armed Services Committee, and Ohios Rob Portman, a member of the Foreign Relations Committee warned the White House about easing any punishments on Moscow and they pledged to turn the sanctions into law.

I hope President Trump will put an end to this speculation and reject such a reckless course, McCain said in a statement. If he does not, I will work with my colleagues to codify sanctions against Russia into law.

Portman said lifting the sanctions for any reason other than a change in the behavior that led to those sanctions in the first place would send a dangerous message to a world already questioning the value of American leadership and the credibility of our commitments after eight years of Obama administration policies.

McCain has emerged as a frequent critic of Trump among Capitol Hill Republicans. He takes a dim view of trying to reset relations with Moscow and says Trump should remember that Putin is a murderer and a thug who seeks to undermine American national security interests at every turn.

For our commander in chief to think otherwise would be naive and dangerous, McCain said.

Julie Pace and Vivian Salama are Associated Press writers.
It turns out there will be a conference in Atlanta next month about climate change and its effects on public health. It just won't have the federal government behind it.

The reason? Former Vice President Al Gore.

"He called me and we talked about it and we said, 'There's still a void and still a need.' We said, 'Let's make this thing happen,' " said Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association. "It was a no-brainer."

News of a revived conference comes days after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention abruptly canceled its long-planned Climate and Health Summit in the lead-up to the change in White House administrations. Benjamin called the move a "strategic retreat" given the climate skepticism of the incoming administration.

Emails sent to participants and scheduled speakers did not explain the reason behind CDC's decision. Nor did the agency offer an explanation in response to a request for comment from The Washington Post, saying only that it was exploring the possibility of holding the event later in the year.

The meeting now planned for Feb. 16 will take place outside of any government circles. Rather than at CDC, it will be held at the nonprofit Carter Center in Atlanta. It will be a one-day event rather than the three days originally planned. Its sponsors now include nongovernmental groups such as the Harvard Global Health Institute, the Turner Foundation and the Climate Reality Project, an education and advocacy group founded by Gore. Organizers say they are aiming to attract as many as 200 attendees from around the country to talk about the mounting risks to human health posed by climate change.

The CDC's move last week exasperated some environmental and public health advocates, who see the issue as an increasingly urgent one and argue that the agency should have gone forward with the summit unless told otherwise by the Trump administration.

"The meeting was important and should have been held," one scheduled attendee told The Post. "Politics is politics, but protecting the health of our citizens is one of our government's most important obligations."

The cancellation got the attention of Gore, who organizers said hatched the idea to salvage some semblance of the gathering.

"Today we face a challenging political climate, but climate shouldn't be a political issue," Gore said in a statement Thursday. "Health professionals urgently need the very best science to protect the public, and climate science has increasingly critical implications for their day-to-day work."

It's not clear whether CDC employees who were scheduled to attend the agency-planned event will be allowed to attend its replacement at the Carter Center. A CDC spokeswoman did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Evidence has continued to mount that climate change poses major risks to public health around the globe. Scientists say a warming planet could mean millions more deaths from extreme heat, more frequent outbreaks of disease, longer allergy seasons and more extreme weather.

For instance, researchers writing in the Lancet last year argued that addressing the problem of climate change could be "the greatest global health opportunity of this century." Not adequately addressing the problem, however, "threatens to undermine the last half century of gains in development and global health."

The Obama administration also viewed the problem of climate change and health as a serious threat. It held a White House summit on the topic, and the president oversaw initiatives to highlight the links between climate and health, including a 300-page report last summer that underscored how a warming climate could exacerbate major public health problems.

Benjamin said Thursday that given the urgency of the issue, waiting to find ways to address it isn't an option.

" There's a thirst out there for this," he said. " This allows the scientists to get together. We feel really strongly that climate change is affecting our health. We know it's happening now."

(c) 2017, The Washington Post
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Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani schoolgirl who survived being shot in the head by the Taliban and went on to become an internationally-known advocate for girls' education and children's rights, said she is "heartbroken" over President Donald Trump's executive order temporarily banning refugees from entering the United States.

"I am heartbroken that today President Trump is closing the door on children, mothers and fathers fleeing violence and war," Malala said in a statement Friday through her nonprofit organization, the Malala Fund. "I am heartbroken that America is turning its back on a proud history of welcoming refugees and immigrants - the people who helped build your country, ready to work hard in exchange for a fair chance at a new life."

Trump on Friday signed orders not only to suspend admission of all refugees into the United States for 120 days but also to implement "new vetting measures" to screen out "radical Islamic terrorists." Refugee entry from Syria, however, would be suspended indefinitely, and all travel from Syria and six other nations - Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen - are suspended for 90 days. Trump also said he would give priority to Christian refugees over those of other religions.

Referring to those criteria, Malala called out Trump for discriminating against children from those countries who have found themselves helplessly caught up in war.

"I am heartbroken that Syrian refugee children, who have suffered through six years of war by no fault of their own, are singled-out for discrimination," she wrote.

Malala referred to a friend named Zaynab, who had fled wars in Somalia, Yemen and Egypt before age 17. Two years ago, Zaynab received a visa to go to the United States, where she learned English, graduated high school and is now in college studying to be a human rights lawyer, Malala wrote.

"Zaynab was separated from her little sister when she fled unrest in Egypt," Malala wrote. "Today her hope of being reunited with her precious sister dims. In this time of uncertainty and unrest around the world, I ask President Trump not to turn his back on the world's most defenseless children and families."

From as early as 11 years old, Malala began blogging for BBC Urdu about life under extremist Taliban control in northwest Pakistan, where many schools had been destroyed and girls were at times banned from getting an education.

She was only 15 when, in 2012, Taliban gunman boarded her school bus in Swat, Pakistan, asked for her by name, then shot her in the head.

Malala not only survived the gunshot, but went on to continue speaking out for children's rights and the importance of education for girls in developing countries. In 2013, she co-founded the Malala Fund, a nonprofit organization whose goal is "a world where all girls can learn for 12 years and lead without fear."

In 2014, Malala became the youngest person to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. The Nobel Committee praised Malala for her "heroic struggle" under "the most dangerous circumstances" in jointly awarding her the prize with Indian children's rights advocate Kailash Satyarthi.

Malala's powerful acceptance speech - and many others around the world since - drew standing ovations and moved many to tears.

"This award is not just for me," Malala said at the 2014 Nobel Peace Prize ceremony in Oslo. "It is for those forgotten children who want education. It is for those frightened children who want peace. It is for those voiceless children who want change."

She continued by pleading for change and saying that her voice represented millions of girls around the world "deprived of education" because of war, poverty or simple injustice based on gender.

"Dear sisters and brothers, the so-called world of adults may understand it, but we children don't. Why is it that countries which we call strong are so powerful in creating wars but are so weak in bringing peace?" Malala asked. "Why is it that giving guns is so easy but giving books is so hard? Why is it, why is it that making tanks is so easy, but building schools is so hard?"

Malala has since continued speaking out against both Muslim extremists who are "misusing the name of Islam" and those who would discriminate against Muslims - including the newly inaugurated president.

In December 2015, when Trump first called for a Muslim ban early in the presidential campaign, Malala decried his comments as "full of hatred."

"Well, that's really tragic that you hear these comments which are full of hatred, full of this ideology of being discriminative towards others," Malala told AFP.

Others at the time who denounced Trump's proposed ban included Muhammad Ali, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Republican House Speaker Paul D. Ryan (Wis.), who said the ban was "not what this party stands for."

"More importantly," Ryan added at the time, "it's not what this country stands for."
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William Norris, a retired federal appeals court judge whose 1988 ruling on gays in the military was a milestone on the path to equal rights for gays and lesbians, has died at age 89.

The Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco, where Mr. Norris served from 1980 to 1997, said he died at his home on Jan. 21, with family members at his bedside.

A soft-spoken man with sometimes-fiery judicial opinions, Mr. Norris was appointed to the bench by President Jimmy Carter and became a prominent member of the appeals courts newly liberal majority.

One of his rulings, in 1987, overturned a California law that banned political parties from endorsing candidates in primary elections. The power to decide whether a party should exercise its First Amendment right to free speech belongs to the party and its adherents, not the government, Mr. Norris wrote.

Probably his best-known decision came a year later in the case of Army Sgt. Perry Watkins, who was discharged from the military after 14 years for being gay. Writing just two years after the U.S. Supreme Court had upheld state laws making gay sex a crime, Mr. Norris said the armed forces ban on gays and lesbians was just as unconstitutional as laws that discriminated on the basis of race.

Homosexuals have been the frequent victims of violence and have been excluded from jobs, schools, housing, churches, and even families, he said. Citing Watkins exemplary military record, and observing that sexual orientation plainly has no relevance to a persons ability to perform or contribute to society, Mr. Norris said the constitutional guarantee of equal protection does not permit notions of majoritarian morality to serve as compelling justification for such discriminatory laws.

The ruling did not last long. The full appeals court set it aside in an appeal by President Ronald Reagans administration, then issued a narrower decision that left the military policy in place but allowed Watkins to re-enlist because he had told the Army he was gay when he first enlisted.

After Congress passed dont ask, dont tell, which allowed gays and lesbians to serve in the military as long as they did not disclose their sexual orientation, Mr. Norris spoke up at a 1997 dinner, where he was receiving a gay-rights award, and called on President Bill Clinton to renounce the new law because it is wrong, it is evil  as you surely know in your heart. The law stayed in place until Congress repealed it in 2011.

But Mr. Norris 1988 ruling, the first of its kind by a federal appeals court, paved the way for legal and political decisions in subsequent decades striking down other laws based on sexual orientation, culminating in the 2015 Supreme Court ruling that legalized same-sex marriage nationwide.

For decades, we and others have cited his opinion to show that courts should subject antigay discrimination to heightened scrutiny, said Shannon Minter, legal director of the National Center for Lesbian Rights in San Francisco. His contribution to the evolution of constitutional protection for gay people was enormous.

His commitment to the cause of individual liberty was unwavering, said fellow Appeals Court Judge Alex Kozinski, a 1985 Reagan appointee.

Mr. Norris, born in Turtle Creek, Pa., served in the Navy from 1945 to 1947, then graduated with honors from Princeton University and Stanford Law School. He practiced law in Los Angeles for a quarter century before his judicial appointment.

He was also active in civic affairs and Democratic politics, serving on the state Board of Education from 1961 to 1966 and then on the state colleges Board of Trustees until 1972, both as an appointee of Gov. Pat Brown.

Mr. Norris ran for California attorney general in 1974 and won the Democratic primary, but lost in November to Republican incumbent Evelle Younger.

After leaving the bench, Mr. Norris resumed law practice in Los Angeles before retiring in 2014. His autobiography, Liberal Opinions: My Life in the Stream of History, was published last year.

He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Jane Jelenko; a son, Don Norris; and three daughters, Barbara, Kim and Alison Norris. A celebration of his life is planned in February.

His family suggests donations to the William Norris Public Service Fellowship Fund at Stanford Law School, which will provide financial aid to law students. The address is Stanford Law School, attn: Allison Fry, Crown Quadrangle, 559 Nathan Abbott Way, Stanford, CA 94305.

Bob Egelko is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: begelko@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @egelko
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WASHINGTON - President Trump called Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday in hopes of cultivating "a great relationship," one in a series of telephone conversations with world leaders as he develops a personal rapport with the heads of several traditional U.S. allies.

Trump's call with Putin, which began about noon Eastern time, comes as the president faces pressure to maintain sanctions against Moscow. He is reaching out to repair the U.S.-Russian relationship, which has been badly strained by the Ukrainian crisis, the war in Syria and the conclusion by U.S. intelligence agencies that Putin ordered systematic hacking of Democratic emails to tip the presidential election in Trump's favor.

Trump spoke with Putin from behind his desk in the Oval Office, which was stacked high with papers and a glass of soda. The president was flanked by Vice President Mike Pence, National Security Adviser Michael Flynn, White House chief of staff Reince Priebus, chief strategist Stephen K. Bannon and press secretary Sean Spicer.

Trump began the day with a call to Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to discuss security and trade issues between the two countries and the mutual threat posed by North Korea.

"President Trump affirmed the iron-clad U.S. commitment to ensuring the security of Japan," a White House statement said. It continued, "President Trump and Prime Minister Abe said they would consult and cooperate on the threat posed by North Korea."

Trump and Abe also discussed an upcoming visit to Japan and other countries in the region by newly installed Defense Secretary James Mattis. Abe, who during Trump's transition phase became the first foreign leader to talk face-to-face with the president-elect, agreed to meet Trump during a visit to Washington on Feb. 10, according to the White House.

Trump then spoke by phone from with German Chancellor Angela Merkel. His outreach to Merkel comes after his repeated attacks on her during the campaign, during which he blasted the German policy on admitting Syrian refugees for allegedly putting German citizens in danger of terrorist attacks.

Trump is planning to speak later Saturday with French President Francois Hollande and Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.

Ahead of Trump's call with Putin, leaders in Moscow expressed cautious hope that the new American leader could forge stronger ties than former president Barack Obama did.

On Saturday, Nikolai Patrushev, the influential head of the Russian Security Council, welcomed the first contact.

"We will await the results, but I believe everything will be positive," Patrushev said Saturday, according to Russia's Interfax news agency.

From Moscow's point of view, lifting the sanctions imposed by the Obama administration for interference in the presidential election and Russia's intervention in Ukraine would be a good start, as would a reduction of NATO's military presence near Russia's borders.

Washington's European allies, meanwhile, have expressed concern over whether Trump's first moves with Russia will signal a reduction of the U.S. commitment to European security.

But Trump, speaking Friday at a White House news conference with British Prime Minister Theresa May, said that it is "very early" to discuss lifting sanctions on Russia. May also stated her commitment to keep the sanctions in place until the Minsk Agreement, a plan to end the conflict in Ukraine, has been implemented. And she added that she continues to argue that position "inside the European Union."

Trump's first contact with Putin as president comes after months of speculation over the Kremlin's role in the 2016 election - starting with Trump's frequent expressions of admiration for Putin and culminating in the assessment of the U.S. intelligence community that Russia interfered in the campaign on Trump's behalf.

Trump has vehemently denied allegations that his positive view of Moscow stems from business ties or blackmail by Russian intelligence, and he has sought to portray his upbeat words about Putin as a positive.

He has consistently argued that Russia can be a strong ally instead of a strategic ally, saying the two countries could cooperate on counterterrorism in general and rolling back the Islamic State in particular, as well as countering nuclear weapon proliferation. Trump has suggested that Washington can work with Moscow on the conflicts in Syria and Ukraine and that he might be ready to negotiate down NATO's strong defensive posture on Russia's western border.

U.S. lawmakers from both parties, and others including Trump Cabinet picks, have raised alarms or at least questioned his softer approach to Russia.

But on Friday, the president expressed more tempered expectations.

"As far as, again, Putin and Russia, I don't say good, bad or indifferent," Trump said. "I don't know the gentleman. I hope we have a fantastic relationship. That's possible. And it's also possible we won't. We will see what happens. I will be representing the American people very, very strongly, very forcefully."

On a grander scale, the Kremlin seems to hope the Trump administration will relax what it sees as a policy of containment since the fall of the Soviet Union left the United States as the world's sole superpower. In the new world order outlined by Putin, Russia would have greater influence in world affairs and, from Moscow's point of view, feel more secure at home.

But Moscow has consistently cautioned about "excessive optimism" over what Trump's presidency will mean for Russia, and Putin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stayed on script Friday. "One can hardly expect substantive contacts on the entire range of affairs from this call," he told reporters. "Let us wait and see. Let us be patient."

Moscow's establishment has welcomed Trump as a pragmatist who will not try to enforce American values on the rest of the world.

"He is a businessman. He is a pragmatic person," Andrei Norkin, co-host of a popular Russian political talk show, said this week. "I hope that his attitude to foreign policy will be like to some sort of business deal. People who will work with him will be telling him 'Mr. President, we are taking a risk here,' and he will agree."

- - -

Filipov reported from Moscow. Karen DeYoung in Washington contributed to this report.
The 21-year-old Ahwazi Arab managed to board a plane under a false name after he said he was threatened by a PNG immigration official and lost hope of being resettled in the United States under President Donald Trump.

"This is the end for me," said Loghman Sawari, whose time in PNG has been punctuated by beatings, bullying, imprisonment, illness, suicide attempts and living on the street in Lae, one of the country's most dangerous cities.

AFTER fleeing Manus Island, a young Iranian refugee has made a desperate plea for asylum on the grounds he fears persecution if he goes back to Papua New Guinea.

It is the first case where a refugee who sought asylum from Australia is claiming to be fleeing persecution by a country connected to the Coalition's deliberately harsh "stop the boats" policy.

Mr Sawari told Fairfax Media he had cobbled together the money for the airfare from several sources over several months.

Broke and destitute, he has been given refuge by a Fijian family and is planning to present himself to Fiji immigration officials on Monday to seek protection.

UNHCR officials are understood to be aware of his situation, which poses legal and diplomatic challenges for the countries involved. Fiji, PNG and Australia are all signatories to the refugee convention.

A warning that Mr Sawari could take extreme measures was included in a submission from trauma worker Janet Galbraith 10 weeks ago. The submission requested he be included in the proposed US resettlement deal because of his vulnerability.

"Hopelessness and living in constant fear is leading him to consider drastic action. I also believe that his mental health is declining and is at a point where he needs to be given the support and safety very soon," Ms Galbraith wrote to the UNHCR.

"I am very concerned for him. He is exhausted and I believe he is unable to continue. I also believe he will make some decisions that will see him either lose his life or at least end up more damaged."

Mr Sawari said he is terrified of being sent back to PNG. "If I go back they will make me crazy or they put me in the jail. I'm sure about that," he said by phone from Nadi.

"My problem is I cannot go back to Iran and I can't stay in PNG. I don't want to go to Australia. I just want to be free, just like human being. I would stay in Fiji. Here you can walk anytime - night, morning. You free here."

Ms Galbraith has just returned from three months in PNG and said Mr Sawari is more vulnerable than many others on Manus Island because his teenage years were filled with trauma and torture in Iran before his ordeal on Manus Island.

For the first few months of his detention in Papua New Guinea, Mr Sawari was an aberration: the boy in a detention centre that was supposed to be exclusively for men, a number of whom have wives and children in Australia.

Loghman Sawari's journey started at least three years ago.

He was 17 when he arrived on Manus Island in August 2013, one month after the then Labor government decided to remove children and family groups from the detention centre. A letter from Australian immigration officials told him he would be "treated as a minor for the purposes of accommodation, placement and other purposes". He remained in isolation until his 18th birthday, when he was told he would be staying.

He was one of the first refugees to be leave the detention centre on Manus Island after his claim for refugee status was accepted, but he suffered from depression and was taken to the local jail after attempting suicide soon after his release. Case notes dated January 2014 show that Mr Sawari was considered to be "high risk".

He lasted two months in PNG's second-biggest city, where he said he was terrified by an armed "raskol" and reduced to tears by bullying in the town before being befriended by a homeless youth.

After being refused permission to return to the transit centre, Mr Sawari fled on a boat and was protected by locals on a neighbouring island for some weeks before returning to Manus Island and being transferred to Port Moresby.

In Port Moresby, Ms Galbraith's report notes Mr Sawari continued to experience harassment, bullying and attacks. "He is extremely and obviously hyper-vigilant all the time. He seldom sleeps and often spends a week inside his unit as he is afraid to venture out."

Ms Galbraith said she had no warning of Mr Sawari's intentions, but had counselled him against previous escape plans, which included travelling by boat to the Solomon Islands.

"In PNG, many of the refugees are talking about doing this. He's just the first who has succeeded. It's not that others haven't tried."

He has also suffered from chronic dental problems, recurring infections in his ears, gums, throat and stomach since 2013 and bouts of fainting and dizziness.

His voice sounded excited and hopeful when he spoke to Fairfax Media soon after arriving in Fiji.

But the excitement had given way to anxiety, uncertainty and dread on Friday. "Today I'm not really OK because I'm thinking too much what will happen."
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This week in 1967 the National Aeronautics and Space Administration family suffered its first fatalities as the crew of Apollo 1 was killed in a training exercise at the Kennedy Space Center.

On Jan. 27, 1967, Apollo 1 astronauts Virgil Gus Grissom, the first American to walk in space, Ed White and rookie Roger Chaffee all died when a flash fire erupted inside their space capsule during a routine countdown rehearsal. The fire quickly spread and killed all three men inside. Later it was discovered that faulty electrical wiring lead to the fire.

APOLLO 1 REMEMBERED: Apollo 1's crew: a Mercury astronaut, spacewalker and rookie

The three men were due to go on a mission that next month on Feb. 21.

Late January and early February are marked with sadness at NASA because the anniversaries of both the 1986 Challenger and 2003 Columbia space shuttle accidents fall within that period.

NASA honors the crews of Apollo 1, Challenger and Columbia during the agency's annual Day of Remembrance on Tuesday, Jan. 31.

Most on the Apollo team have said that were it not for the fire and the lessons learned out of the tragedy, Americans may have never reached the moon later in 1969. A redesign of the Apollo spacecraft began as the NASA family mourned for the three men who gave their lives for manned spaceflight. The maverick, cowboy aspect of those early NASA days was tempered by the loss. A new quick-release hatch was designed so things like this wouldnt happen again.

In life Grissom always stated that spaceflight was challenging and adversity shouldn't be grounds to abandon the cause.

"If we die, we want people to accept it. We're in a risky business, and we hope that if anything happens to us it will not delay the program. The conquest of space is worth the risk of life," he told reporters in 1965 just after the Gemini 3 mission.

Recently, former Houston Chronicle science writer Eric Berger wrote a chilling Ars Technica story on the hell that the astronauts faced during the 17-second fire. Its the kind of tale that reminds space buffs that spaceflight should never be seen as routine.

NASA DISPLAYING HISTORY: NASA displays Apollo capsule hatch 50 years after fatal fire

Included is a snippet of audio from the fire and the crew which will make readers shudder.

This week Apollo 1s hatch will be put on display at the Kennedy Space Center for visitors to view for the first time in 50 years. For years this key piece of spaceflight history was kept behind closed doors at the Langley Research Center in Virginia. The hatch has undergone some historic restoration.

Many said NASAs embarrassment over the loss of life kept the hatch hidden from the public. The fire cast doubt in the hearts of many about mankind's ability to touch the lunar surface. Gus Grissoms widow, Betty, asked 20 years ago that the capsule be put on display, but her request was denied.

It took 50 years for the hatch to go on display, just as Americans once again look skyward and ponder when and if well ever step foot on soil so very far away.

On Friday the Kennedy Space Center will host a public ceremony at 11 a.m. for the official opening of the Apollo 1 tribute at the Apollo/Saturn V Center of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The event also will air live on NASA TV and the agency's website.
CURITIBA, Brazil  The lead federal prosecutor in a massive corruption investigation roiling Brazil says that recent developments could double the size of the case, a staggering possibility given that the probe has ensnared many of the countrys elite, threatens to bring down President Michel Temer and is expanding to other Latin American countries.

Nearly three years after the first arrests in March 2014, the Car Wash investigation has no end in sight, said Deltan Dallagnol, coordinator of the task force in the state of Parana, where the operations began and are still largely centered under the jurisdiction of Judge Sergio Moro.

I would say that the new plea agreements could allow the Car Wash operation to double its size in the future, Dallagnol said on Thursday, declining to go into detail because the cases were ongoing.

What started as an investigation into money-laundering has morphed into a corruption scandal so large that it has shocked Brazilians long accustomed to graft in politics. Investigators say more than $2 billion in bribes were paid out in a kickback scheme that was centered at state oil company Petrobras and included major construction companies like Odebrecht. In the last few years, dozens of politicians and top businessmen have been convicted and jailed, and many more are facing charges.

In a wide-ranging interview, Dallagnol said the investigation lives at risk because of forces trying to snuff it out. He said the pressures were increasing as the number of powerful people caught up in it grows by the day.

Dallagnol said the loss of Supreme Court Justice Teori Zavascki, who was overseeing a large part of the investigation and died in a plane crash last week, was a huge blow but ultimately would not derail the many cases in progress.

He said that while many believed the investigation was creating a new Brazil, its long-term impact depended on whether Latin Americas largest nation took measures to reform its political and judicial systems. He likened it to an ill patient who goes to the doctor and gets a diagnosis but doesnt act on the medical advice.

To many Brazilians, fed up with corruption and their political leaders, Moro and Dallagnol are heroes, a designation that Dallagnol flatly rejects.

We are just doing our jobs, he said.

Peter Prengaman is an Associated Press writer.
1 Peace talks: Russias foreign minister said Friday the next round of Syrian peace talks in Geneva would be postponed until late February, as rebel factions continued to clash with al Qaeda-linked militants in northern Syria in some of the worst infighting in the past few years. The U.N.-mediated talks in Switzerland, previously set for Feb. 8, will instead take place by the end of the month, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said in opening a mini-summit in Moscow with state-approved representatives of the Syrian opposition.

2 Drug gangs: A Colombian rebel leader is warning that criminal gangs are attempting to take over coca-growing regions being abandoned by the guerrillas to expand cultivation of the plant used to make cocaine. The rebel leader known as Pastor Alape says the threats against communities in northern Colombia could lead to a humanitarian crisis as scared farmers flee their homes. He issued the warning at an event Friday to unveil the governments plan to wean thousands of families off the coca trade as part of a peace deal with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia. Farmers who voluntarily substitute coca for legal crops will be eligible to receive monthly stipends as well as loans and technical assistance.
ADEN, Yemen  After reaching Yemens shores in a packed refugee boat, the young Ethiopian coffee farmer was plunged into a living hell. The smugglers wanted thousands of dollars in ransom from the migrants, and they used him as an example of what would happen if they didnt pay.

Each day for a month, they inflicted new tortures on him, Omar Farrag told the Associated Press. They put him in a tank of water and lit a fire underneath it. They wrapped his limbs with tight barbed wire. At times, they heated the barbed wire.

Finally, his younger brother came from Ethiopia with $2,000 in ransom money. The smugglers decided they could squeeze more money out of him too, so they tortured his brother and ended up killing him, Farrag said.

Now in the southern Yemeni city of Aden, the 26-year-old is overcome with guilt over his brother's death. I got my brother killed; I am a disgrace, Farrag said. I don't even know where they buried him.

Refugees from the Horn of Africa are flowing into Yemen at ever growing rates despite the nearly 2-year-old civil war that has thrown the country into its own humanitarian crisis of hunger and displacement. The migrants  many, like Farrag, fleeing drought or poverty back home  are hoping to cross Yemen and reach neighboring oil-rich Saudi Arabia.

More than 111,500 refugees landed on Yemens shores last year, up from around 100,000 the year before, according to the Regional Mixed Migration Secretariat, a group that monitors migration in the area.

The chaos caused by the civil war has raised refugees hopes that they can slip through to Saudi Arabia. But the turmoil has also left migrants vulnerable to abuse and cruelty at the hands of the armed trafficking rings, many believed connected to and acting with protection from the multiple militias involved in the war.

After taking refugees money as payment to transport them, the traffickers often demand more, sometimes even phoning their families so they can hear the torment their loved ones are subjected to. Rape is so widespread that women carry contraception for fear of becoming pregnant.

Maad Al-Zikry and Maggie Michael are Associated Press writers.
Timeline

January 28, 1914

Archduke assassination

The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria begins World War I. (And eventually produces one decent pop-punk song.)

August 4, 1914

Germany invades Belgium

The first theater in the war opens up. "The Rape of Belgium" is one of the worst atrocities in the war. Some people predicted the war would be over by Christmaswhich would have made for a really good stocking stuffer.

Unfortunately, this war dragged on.

May 7, 1915

Sinking of the Lusitania

A German submarine attacks and sinks the ship Lusitania, a civilian vessel carrying 128 Americans. The United States remains neutral nevertheless. This has to be one of the top "just walk away" moments in history.

November 7, 1916

Woodrow Wilson wins reelection bid

President Wilson, the incumbent, defeats his challenger, Republican Charles Hughes. Wilson uses the slogan "He kept us out of war." (That anticipation you feel in your stomach is the approach of irony.)

February 25, 1917

Zimmerman Telegram discovered

British spies intercept a telegram from Germany to Mexico in which Germany promises to give the Southwest to Mexico in the event of war with the United States. The meddling in North American affairs outrages the American public, building support for the war.

Pro-tip: never offer up somebody else's stuff as collateral.

April 2, 1917

Wilson addresses Congress

The formerly anti-war president urges Congress to declare war on Germany. Congress approves the declaration a few days later. Wilson probably changes his motto to "he almost kept us out of the war."

September 1917

Wilson establishes "The Inquiry"

The president tasks academics, advisers, and philosophers to study and prepare a peace agreement for the end of the war. It was kind of like a summer nerd camp, only with larger ramifications for geopolitics.

December 3, 1917

Russia is out

After the Russian Revolution establishes a new socialist government led by Vladimir Lenin, Russia signs a ceasefire with Germany. They weren't invited to the after-partymeaning the Paris Peace negotiations.

January 8, 1917

Wilson delivers his Fourteen Points speech

The president lays out his vision for peace to Congress. If this had been during the age of PowerPoint, maybe we would have ended up joining the League of Nations.

June 26, 1918

End of Battle of Belleau Woods

The Americans stop the Germans from advancing on Paris. The involvement of the Americans turns the tide of the war and provokes widespread defection in the German ranks. We're well on our way to becoming back-to-back World War champs.

November 11, 1918

Armistice

World War I ends with a peace agreement between the Germans and the Allies. To celebrate, everyone heads back to the newsroom to regroup.

June 28, 1919

Treaty of Versailles signed

The formal peace arrangement is much harsher on Germany than Woodrow Wilson desired and includes reparations, or war payments. They were like alimony payments, only for the entire free world.

August-September, 1919

Wilson argues League of Nations to Congress

The United States Senate doesn't ratify the Treaty of Versailles: as a result, the United States doesn't become part of the League of Nations. Wilson predicts another world war will eventually take place.

Turns out all that time at Princeton was good for something.

September 25, 1919

Wilson collapses

Touring around the country to try to drum up support for the Treaty of Versailles, President Wilson suffers from a stroke. He recovers, but dies a few years later, in 1924. RIP, WW.
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The board of directors of the state's top teachers union has voted to oppose Betsy DeVos, President Donald Trump's nominee for education secretary.

"Betsy DeVos has no credentials or any experience to serve in this position as she has never had any experience with public schools," the New York State United Teachers' board of directors said in its resolution Saturday.

The union also praised New York's U.S. senators, Kirsten Gillibrand and Chuck Schumer, for announcing their opposition to DeVos.

Gillibrand, D-N.Y., released statements on social media to announce that she will vote against DeVos when the Senate votes on her confirmation. Schumer, D-N.Y., said Thursday he would vote "no" on DeVos.

NYSUT said its members have sent tens of thousands of email to oppose DeVos' nomination over the last few weeks. The union has been urging school boards to oppose DeVos.

Locally, the Auburn school board failed to adopt a resolution opposing DeVos' nomination.

While that effort wasn't successful, the union said more than 20 school boards across New York have passed resolutions urging the Senate to reject DeVos' nomination.

The School Administrators Association of New York State has also come out against DeVos.
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For many, the first day of school will be a day of strong emotions and a few tears. And that's just the parents.

While this week marks the return to school for students across the ACT, there will be several hundred who will be pulling on their school uniforms and heading into classrooms for the first time.

Among them is Sam Graham, 5, who will be attending Trinity Christian School in Wanniassa.

"I'm looking forward to doing reading and writing so I can play Pokemon on my own," he said.
Students heading back to school in the capital are set to face scorching temperatures on their return to the classroom this week.

Kindergarten students starting school on Monday will be met with the temperature hitting 39 degrees for their first day.

Fyn 4, Marlow, 3, and Noah Butler, 6, beating the heat in Lake Burley Griffin before the school holidays end. Credit:Jay Cronan

It will be a similar situation for all other students when they return to class on Tuesday, with the mercury also rising to 39 degrees.

The Bureau of Meteorology is also forecasting the minimum temperature will be a warm 22 degrees on Tuesday.
A chance meeting with a woman in a cemetery has made the connection between an ANU research project and the people it's designed to inform much stronger.

For ANU College of Asia and the Pacific School of Culture, History and Language research associate Keiko Tamura, the coincidence was striking.

ANU research associate in the School of Culture, History and Language Keiko Tamura. Dr Tamura is putting together a database of Prisoners of War and civilian internees whose bodies and ashes rest in Cowra. Credit:Kimberley Le Lievre

Early last year, she and two fellow researchers had just embarked on a project set to further strengthen the relationship between Australia and Japan.

The project is connecting the names of people buried at the Japanese War Cemetery in Cowra, about two hours north of Canberra, with their records held at the National Archives of Australia and Australian War Memorial in an online database.
Cotton is considered a "cash crop" in India where the industry employs 60 million people in production, processing, marketing and trade. Credit:Lucy Cormack More than 10,000 litres of water is needed to grow just one kilogram, pesticides and fertilisers are used intensively, and biodiversity loss, chemical poisoning and child labour have all plagued the industry. The social and environmental impacts of the industry in India were such that more than a decade ago it was suggested Ikea "abandon cotton altogether". Nivmala Samadhan Savade works on the cotton farm with her husband and mother in law. Credit:Lucy Cormack "Some said we should move our sourcing to 'safe' countries like the US," said Guido Verijke, former deputy business manager for Ikea textiles.

"But Ikea has the financial power and is big enough to change things, so instead we decided ... to do something about the problem." Ikea's Indira blanket, made from BCI cotton, which is woven, died, stitched and packaged in India. Credit:Lucy Cormack This led to the formation of a partnership between the furniture manufacturer and conservation group WWF in 2004, with the goal of making conventional cotton farming more sustainable. The result was the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI), a global program which now has more than 850 members, including H&M, Levi Strauss & Co., Marks and Spencer, Marimekko and Burberry. Members who have joined the initiative commit to a range of social and environmental requirements, including fair work practices and regulated use of land, chemicals and water.

When it began more than 10 years ago, BCI attracted just 500 farmers from India and Pakistan, most of whom "were not ready to listen to the environmental or social issues; they were only interested in saving money," says Arif Makhdum, of WWF Pakistan. But after a year of positive results, the project was expanded and by 2010, the first licensed BCI harvest took place in Brazil, India, Mali and Pakistan. Now it is farmed all over the world, from China, to Africa, Israel, the US and Australia. For Samadhan, joining BCI meant going against all the farming practices he and generations before him had followed, but it paid off. Where once he earned $240-300 per acre, he now earns $1200, while halving costs on water and chemicals.

Reducing the use of unnecessary pesticides has also led to an improvement in his health. "After [joining] BCI, the comforts of life have increased," he says. As BCI farmers report their success, more and more join the movement, which has grown from 500 farmers in 2004 to 44,000 today. By 2020 BCI aims to have 5 million farmers producing 8.2 million metric tonnes of 'Better Cotton' by 2020, or 30 per cent of global cotton production. At the Sivaparamesh Spinning Mill in the revenue block of Coimbatore district in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, the heat is intense.

Inside the mill floor-to-ceiling machinery roars as it spins kilos of velvety white cotton into thin threads of yarn. Workers in white hairnets and face masks move across the mill floor, deftly tending to half-metre spindles should a thread become tangled. From here the cotton will be transported to Asian Fabricx in Karur, in India's south. The fabric mill is a multi-building complex, powered by local wind farms, six megawatts of solar energy and more than 3500 workers. It is here that some of Ikea's most popular bedspreads, curtains and blankets are spun, woven, died and stitched, before being sold around the world.

From August next year however, these products may never leave India, but instead be sold from India's first Ikea store, when it opens in Hyderabad. "An Indian consumer seeks good price, functionality and durability. Something that should last for generations," said Yughandar Mandavkar, chief executive officer of Grass Roots Action for Social Participation. "Indians are very brand aware. If it is a fancy label, yes we will go for it. But I'm not sure Indians will go for a label which is known for clean or green initiatives." Once its Hyderabad store opens, Ikea expects to host up to 6 million customers a year. But Mandavkar suggests footfall won't necessarily translate into sales. "... Maybe 5 per cent will be customers, but I think most will just look, to say, "oh beautiful, Ikea brand, [it's] Europe's best, we'll buy next time."
Gladys Berejiklian, the new Premier of NSW, was on Monday last week inducted into the mysterious Political Formula Of The Lady-Cave, the first element of which is that if you've got one and you haven't used it for its traditional purpose, you are thought in some quarters less able to think sensibly about important family related things like hospitals and schools.

Ms Berejiklian  who failed to deploy her own uterus to its customary work during its peak-productive years and instead pottered about installing an integrated smart card ticketing system to the Sydney transport system and extending the Sydney Light Rail Dulwich Hill Line  was questioned during her first press conference as to whether she thought her childlessness was a professional handicap.

She handled the question with aplomb, and can at least be thankful that she avoids the second element of the Formula, which decrees that if you possess a uterus and you HAVE used it, you are thought in some quarters to be either not quite committed enough to be of any use, or a tiny bit of a hatchet-visaged icemonster for abandoning your whelps.

It is, however, the third element of the Formula that is the most runic and paradoxical. And that is that if you do not have and have never had a uterus, you are nonetheless absolutely capable of complete authority in the matter of what should be permitted to go on inside them.

Which is why, only hours after the new Premier of NSW was asked to reflect upon the political handicap of her childlessness, the newly installed leader of the free world  Donald Trump - was able to team up with six other blokes to sign a decree preventing untold thousands of impecunious Third World women from having the option of a safe abortion.
Indigenous rights and the preservation of Malaysian rainforests have suffered a major setback as a result of two developments over the holiday break.

In a majority ruling the Federal Court of Malaysia has rejected the approach previously taken by lower courts in Malaysia and by the Australian High Court in its Mabo case, ruling that indigenous people have no title claim over foraging lands.

And the death earlier this month of the Chief Minister of the Malaysian State of Sarawak, Adenan Satem, is another blow to Indigenous rights.

Adenan Satem succeeded long-serving chief minister Abdul Taib Mahmud in 2014 and went on to take his Barisan Nasional party to a resounding state election victory in 2016.

In his short time in office Adenan showed some willingness to listen to Indigenous voices, reversing his predecessor's commitment to build a series of major dams on the Baram River.
Was it a blinding moment of clarity? It was certainly revealing. Fresh from the political gutter where he had stooped to call Bill Shorten gutless and weak, Malcolm Turnbull presented as something else.

Carrying none of that bitterness nor burden of troubles blighting his year so far, a smiling 29th Prime Minister beamed with a patriotic beneficence while describing a "glass half-full" country where fortunes are determined solely "by your energy and your optimism". All in the space of 24 hours.

Malcolm Turnbull's high personal standing has sunk during his leadership. Credit:Rohan Thomson

To the state contestants for the national gong of Australian of the Year for 2017, Turnbull continued: "It's more important than ever to remind ourselves what it is that sets us apart as Australians. We are inclusive, we are compassionate, we are resilient, we are genuine. We have a deep commitment to our uniquely Australian egalitarian democracy. We respond to uncertainty and challenge, not with trepidation or anxiety, but with trust and with overwhelming optimism."

The revelation? That this was Turnbull as voters preferred to see him: a natural advocate, and, crucially, an exponent of the best leadership qualities of selflessness, inclusiveness, confidence-building, and above all, a narrator of the great Australian story. A leader with vision.
You can take your pick this weekend as to whether you celebrate all things Australian or all things Chinese  or neither, you old grouch. I'm having a bet each way by celebrating the Aussie-Chinese food of my childhood, and my future.

I learnt a lot at the lazy-susanned tables of the Mee Ging, Fairy Stork and the Tientsin on Acland Street, in Melbourne's seaside suburb of St Kilda. The chefs at these restaurants were developing a legitimate regional cuisine that had its spiritual roots in the make-do cooking of early Chinese immigrants on the goldfields, at outback stations, and in country pubs. (Fun fact: by 1890, one-third of all cooks in Australia were Chinese.)

Illustration by Simon Letch.

Chinese chefs and restaurateurs have long worked hard, and often ingeniously, to temper their ancient cuisines in a way that appeals to a new, non-Chinese customer. Brilliant case in point: William Chen Wing Young, of Melbourne's Wing Lee restaurant, inventing the dim sim (not dim sum, the collective term) in 1945.

More steamed meatball than delicate siu mai, it nevertheless helped to get a whole generation of suspicious diners across the line. So did the lemon chicken, black bean beef, fluorescent-red sweet and sour pork and cornflour thickened chicken chow mein of the traditional Friday night Chinese takeaway.
On the cusp of turning 50, why is Kylie Minogue now bothering to get married?

Of course her age has nothing to do with it, she deserves to be happy and if a marriage brings her joy, than so be it.

Kylie Minogue out with her fiance Joshua Sasse. Credit:Getty images

But having lived for half a century without feeling the need to conform and given how her engagement has been played out in the media, I have my doubts.

For starters, why, in 2017, is one of the world's most successful women now planning to drop the surname she has spent the past four decades stamping across the showbiz world for some ill-conceived notion of honouring an ancient tradition of taking up her new husband's name?
The Department of Education removed the ethics option from the school enrolment form last year in a move that critics said amounted to an attempt to deliberately hide it from parents, following former Premier Mike Baird's office's discussions with religious groups.

The not-for-profit organisation which runs the classes, Primary Ethics, says there are 32,000 NSW children receiving ethics education in 420 or about a quarter of NSW schools, with 30 new schools starting the classes for the first time this year.

Irene Smith, a former teacher, with her two grandaughters Abby, 5, and Poppy, 9, at her Artarmon home. Credit:Louise Kennerley

Grandmothers have emerged as the unlikely saviours of ethics classes in NSW primary schools, which are proving resilient despite the introduction of politically charged barriers to enrolment last year.

Meanwhile the NSW government has buried a $300,000 review of special religious education and ethics classes in schools from 2015. Still unreleased a year later, the report was to publish the number of students taking part in ethics (SEE) and special religious education (SRE) classes, or neither, as well as investigating the nature and extent of the subjects and the role of parent choice.

A spokesman for education minister Adrian Piccoli said the report was still "being considered" and refused to comment on when it would be released.

Department guidelines in 2016 introduced a series of bureaucratic hoops for parents to jump through before they can get information about the availability of ethics classes.

As well as ethics being omitted from the enrolment form, principals do not have to inform parents about ethics classes until the parent has twice returned paperwork rejecting religious education. Children not enrolled in ethics or religious studies engage in "meaningful activities" such as sitting in the library.

Some schools inform parents about the availability of ethics anyway.
The new Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, is making a show of reconnecting with regional NSW as she travels to National Party territory on Sunday to announce a new cabinet without three of its most experienced ministers.

Ms Berejiklian will overhaul her cabinet extensively on Sunday, after the resignation of health minister Jillian Skinner last week.

Fairfax Media has confirmed that Mrs Skinner will be joined by two of the government's other most experienced ministers in exiting the cabinet.

Adrian Piccoli will leave the frontbench after six years as education minister. Fellow veteran of the National Party, Duncan Gay, MLC, will also be losing his cabinet post as the roads minister. Mr Gay on Saturday night forecast his retirement from politics as "sooner rather than later" but Mr Piccoli has ruled out quitting before the next election.
The state's 790,000 pupils face an uncomfortable start to the school year with temperatures expected to soar into the 40s in their first week back in their classrooms.

Two scorching days are forecast for the city to end January  including as much as 44 degrees in Sydney's west on Tuesday  and the heat isn't about to take a break.

According to forecasts from Weatherzone, owned by Fairfax Media, maximum temperatures for the first week of February are likely to average about 30 degrees, a level recorded only once since 1973 for this time of year.

But as classes start up again for the year, parents shouldn't expect their local schools will close down for the day, despite the hot weather.
Steve Dickson announces his defection to One Nation with Pauline Hanson. Credit:Facebook Such is the strength of the resurgent party, which received 20 per cent of the senate vote at some Queensland booths during the federal election, that it could secure balance of power at the coming state election. "It is very humbling. I have never been the leader of a political party before  and I am very excited about it," Dickson told media at a press conference with Hanson. Senator Pauline Hanson has given a wide-ranging interview to the ABC. Credit:Andrew Campbell Hanson said she would "drain the Billabong".

Addressing the issues, he said he wanted to get on with an 80-year-old plan to drought-proof the state known as the Bradfield scheme. Televangelist Pat Robertson was one of the first people to suggest Islam should be treated as a political ideology. Credit:EDDIE ADAMS And he had this to say about Islam: "We welcome anybody from all over the world to come to Australia  If you want to come here and have two or three wives, if you want to treat women like dogs, if you want to mutilate little girls, there are many countries you can do that but none of them are called Australia. "We are not going to take a backwards step, this is a positive campaign with positive policies." Embracing the ani-Muslim agenda: One Nation leader Pauline Hanson. Credit:Lisa Maree Williams

Dickson has fallen into line with the policies of his new party. In launching both One Nation's Queensland and Western Australian campaigns, Hanson focussed on a plan to ban the wearing of burqas. "We're going to lead the way in Queensland, so no drivers' licenses wearing the burqa or anything like that," she told Sky News, though at present Australian law does not permit women to have drivers' licence photographs taken while wearing the burqa. The party's website details a slew of policies targeted at Islam or Muslims, ranging from the banning of the construction of new mosques to the video surveillance of existing ones to Trump's own suspension of immigration from Muslim countries. But it is the argument made in Hanson's policy statement that Islam is not a religion that Dorling says reveals much about how right-wing ideas are being transferred from the American right to the Australian.

"Islam sees itself as a theocracy, not a democracy. Islam does not believe in democracy, freedom of speech, freedom of the press or freedom of assembly," reads the policy document in part. "It does not separate religion and politics. Many believe that it is solely a religion, but the reality is that it is much more, for it has a political agenda that goes far outside the realm of religion. Islam regulates the Muslim's social and domestic life, their legal system and politics  their total life. Its religious aspect is fraud; it is rather a totalitarian political system, including legal, economic, social and military components, masquerading as a religion." Dorling notes that though the idea that Islam is not a religion might be a "radically new proposition within Australian public life", it is an idea with a history among right-wing evangelical Christians in the US, where anti-Islamic sentiment rose after the September 11 attacks. "As early as June 2007 the conservative American Christian broadcaster Pat Robertson told his national radio audience that 'we have to recognise that Islam is not a religion. It is a worldwide political movement meant on domination of the world'," Dorling writes in the Australia Institute paper. "In April 2008 he broadcast that 'I want to say it again, and again, and again: Islam is not a religion, it is a political system meant on  bent on world domination, not a religion. It masquerades as a religion, but the religion covers a worldwide attempt to exercise power and to subjugate the world to their way of thinking'."

This line of reasoning can be found discussed Breitbart, the online news outlet that helped foster the alt-right movement, as the new white nationalist movement in America has been called. Breitbart's former chief executive is Steve Bannon, who now serves as the Trump's senior counsellor, having helped help run his election campaign and write his "America First" inauguration speech. Dorling traces the intellectual history of the argument to back further to virulently anti-Islamic scholars and activists. One is Iranian-born Canadian ex-Muslim activist Ali Sina, who argues that Islam is not a religion but rather "an unreformable, violent, militant political cult". Sina has offered $50,000 to anyone who can disprove his charge that the prophet Muhammad was "a narcissist, a misogynist, a rapist, a paedophile, a lecher, a torturer, a mass murderer, a cult leader, an assassin, a terrorist, a madman and a looter". Dorling quotes Sina's website: "I find the word 'Muslim' very derogatory and insulting. It is synonymous to stupid, barbarian, thug, arrogant, brain dead, zombie, hooligan, goon, shameless, savage and many other ignoble things. I don't know whether this most disgusting word elicits the same meanings in you or not. So when I want to show my despise [sic] of someone I call him 'Muslim'. But because Muslims are stupid, they don't know all these things and they are proud of this name. This is a win/win situation because I insult them and they are happy and thank me for it. Isn't that smart?"

Sina's writing has been quoted by Dutch far-right leader Geert Wilders, who travelled to Australia last year to help launch the Australian anti-Islam party Australian Liberty Alliance. Dorling traces similar ideas to Rebecca Bynum, publisher and managing editor of the British far-right New English Review and an otherwise obscure American former professor of engineering, Bill French, who writes under the name Bill Warner. Warner has published "statistical analyses" of the Koran and other Islamic texts to argue that Islam is "political, not religious. Islam is a political ideology." The contention that one of the world's three great Abrahamic religions is not in fact a religion serves a specific purpose in the American context. It allows religious critics of Islam, such as the evangelical right, to argue that it should be stripped of constitutional protection extended to religious thought and expression in the US bill of rights. Similarly in Australia, he writes: "One Nation seeks to deny Islam's status as a religion and thus deny Australian Muslims constitutional protection for their human rights of freedom of religion and belief."

The paper notes that when asked how the party established its position that Australia was at risk of being "swamped by Muslims", One Nation senator Malcolm Roberts told Channel 10's The Project: "We've got an adviser who goes into all of that called Frank Salter." Salter is an Australian academic who undertook post-doctoral research at the former Max Planck Institute for Behavioral Physiology in Germany. He contends that discrimination against ethnic minorities is an "inborn response" all humans have, Dorling writes. "In his view monocultural societies are inherently 'fitter' than multicultural ones, and that ethnic diversity leads to corruption, weak public services and a decline in government institutions. South Africa's former apartheid regime is described as an example of 'aggressive social control' used to preserve the 'fitness' of society." Both Salter and Hanson declined to be interviewed for this story. Speaking with Fairfax Media, Dorling said the political purpose of One Nation's adoption of its stance on Islam was simple. Hanson, he said, launched her career by attacking Asians and Indigenous Australians. She is renewing her support by harnessing an international fear of terrorism linked to Islamic extremists.
Associate Professor Theresa Jacques is a pioneering intensive care specialist. She's the director of a major ICU. She's tough, passionate, incisive, and if your loved one needs life-saving medical treatment she's someone you'll want to have around.

So why would her male colleagues ever have thought it was appropriate to tell her to fetch their tea and sandwiches?

"It's the classic anecdote you'll hear from female intensivists," Professor Jacques said, who copped her fair share of sexism as she rose through the ranks almost 20 years ago.

"We're talking about senior medical officers. Qualified doctors tasked with taking lunch orders and told to perform menial, secretarial tasks."
It is the cleanest stretch of the Yarra River to swim in, and it is about a 40-minute drive from the city.

You can leap from the cliff faces into the flowing water, or clamber across the smooth rocks in the shallow sections. And once you've finished swimming, it is only a short walk to cafes and eateries.

So where is this picturesque spot? Look no further than Warrandyte, in Melbourne's north-east.

The section of the Yarra that snakes through Warrandyte, Templestowe and Heidelberg has recorded the lowest bacteria levels over the past five years, water quality data shows.
Police are appealing for witnesses after a woman was allegedly seen driving the wrong way on the Princes Freeway in Melbourne's west on Friday night.

A 53-year-old Altona woman has been charged with conduct endangering life, driving in a dangerous manner and unauthorised use of a freeway.

Westgate Highway Patrol is appealing for witnesses after a woman was allegedly seen driving the wrong way on the Princes Freeway. Credit:Paul Rovere

Westgate Highway Patrol officers allege the woman was driving in the wrong direction on the freeway at Laverton about 10.40pm.

Police allege the woman was seen stopping her car to get out and walk along the freeway.
The name Vic Oliver may now be forgotten, but he holds a significant honour in British cultural history. On January 29, 1942, the Viennese-born actor and comedian was the first celebrity to be cast away on Desert Island Discs, a series for BBC Forces Radio created and presented by the gently pedagogic Roy Plomley. Oliver's choices included Tchaikovsky's Marche Slave and, controversially for an Austrian Jew, Wagner's Ride of the Valkyries.

There have been more than 3000 guests on the show, but only four hosts. After Plomley's death in 1985, Michael Parkinson took over for three years, but was not a popular choice. He was replaced, three years later, with the schoolmarmish Sue Lawley, who remained until 2006, when Kirsty Young took over. Gently probing, fiercely articulate and with a voice that sounds like it has been preserved in manuka honey, Young is perhaps the show's best presenter, who has done much to bring it into the 21st century while maintaining the simple genius of the format.

Michael Palin and John Cleese perform on the closing night of 'Monty Python Live (Mostly)' at the O2 Arena in London. Credit:Getty Images

Desert Island Discs is now an institution - a character in Tom Stoppard's play The Real Thing fretted about his upcoming appearance, while an episode of Absolutely Fabulous saw Edina Monsoon (played by Jennifer Saunders) choose eight discs, all by Lulu.

Here are 10 of the show's greatest moments.
David Manning survived the sinking of HMAS Perth in World War II. Credit:Penny Stephens In three remarkable years HMAS Perth helped evacuate Allied troops from Greece, fought against Vichy France forces in Syria and lost 13 men in the Battle of Crete. HMAS Perth and USS Houston had been the only large Allied ships to survive the Battle of the Java Sea. "No ship was more loved in the Royal Australian Navy, and no ship's company saw more of the horrors of war or endured them with such courage," Carlton writes in Cruiser. "Whatever ships they might have sailed in before or since, the men of HMAS Perth belonged to her first and foremost, and she to them." HMAS Perth's ship's company in Fremantle, August 1941. Credit:Royal Australian Navy This reverence explains why the discovery in 2013 was so shocking. In early September Indonesia-based diver Richard Rigby conducted a regular six-month dive of the shipwreck of HMAS Perth.

What he found caused outrage and heartache: the cruiser had been commercially salvaged for scrap metal. "The mid-section above deck where the bridge was has been completely removed, the bow guns have been damaged by what appears to be explosives with the barrels missing and the tops peeled off, the bow has collapsed completely," Rigby said in a report posted on Facebook. A dramatic painting of the sinking of the HMAS Perth almost 75 years ago. Credit:Penny Stephens There are men and boys who are still there unless the salvagers have ripped her open. Barges have raped the ship  to build bloody microwaves and may have scattered the men to the currents. It's vile. historian Pattie Wright "I dived her in May .. and she was all there so it must have happened in the last four months." Military historian Pattie Wright still gets emotional talking about it. "Historians estimate 40 to 60 men would have been caught in sealed compartments when Perth went down  that's a war grave. It's no different to the war graves in Villers-Bretonneux or Kokoda," Wright says.

Red Lead, the ship's cat, on board HMAS Perth. She perished with the vessel. "There are men and boys who are still there unless the salvagers have ripped her open. Barges have raped the ship  to build bloody microwaves and may have scattered the men to the currents. It's vile." The discovery could hardly have come at a worst time in the bilateral relationship. Indonesia was livid over revelations Australia had tapped the phone calls of former Indonesian president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, his wife and senior officials. Wright says her pleas to the Australian government to protect the wreck fell on deaf ears. "I was duck shoved from department to department," she says. "To say it has been a silent hot potato in Canberra is an understatement." Memorabilia hangs in the Ballarat home of HMAS Perth survivor David Manning. Credit:Penny Stephens In December 2013 Wright was shocked to learn the Commonwealth War Graves Commission did not consider a shipwreck to be a war grave. "A war grave under its charter is defined as official commemoration by interment of remains in an established grave with a regulation headstone," Michael Ronaldson, then minister for veterans affairs, told her in a letter.

"Further there is no guarantee that declaring wrecks war graves or amending the charter  would add anything further in terms of protection of such sites." The shipwrecks of HMAS Perth and USS Houston lay undisturbed for decades. However in the late 1960s the wrecks, accessible at a depth of about 50 metres, were rediscovered by divers. "The wartime legacy of these ships sat uneasily with their increasing popularity as tourist dive sites," writes Natali Pearson in Inside Indonesia. "Souveniring was common, especially among descendents of the crew, who felt a special connection to the ships." In 2013 retired Australian farmer Frank Craven, whose mother's first husband had died in HMAS Perth, placed a lock of his mother's hair in the wreck. In a subsequent dive he found a trumpet near the carcass of the USS Houston. The USS Houston CA-30 Survivors Association refused to accept it because it was illegal to remove property from a US Navy wreck. Eventually Craven was able to hand over the trumpet to the US Embassy's Navy Attache in Canberra. Pearson, who is completing a PhD at the University of Sydney on the ethics of cultural heritage in Indonesia, says underwater cultural heritage is a difficult area. Under international law, the HMAS Perth remains under the jurisdiction of the Australian government, even though it lies in Indonesian waters. But the shipwreck is not an official war grave. However Pearson hopes there could be a happy ending to the story.

In August 2015 the Australian National Maritime Museum and the Indonesian National Centre for Archaeology agreed to work together to achieve formal protection for the HMAS Perth. "We understand that the state of HMAS Perth is of grave concern to the families of the servicemen lost on board and we remain committed to working with them, with our colleagues in Indonesia and with all other relevant agencies to achieve formal heritage protection for the site," says Australian National Maritime Museum's director Kevin Sumption. Last November another maritime scandal hit the headlines. The wrecks of Dutch warships, sunk during the Battle of the Java Sea in 1942, had mysteriously vanished. The finger of blame was once again pointed at illegal salvagers. The Dutch defence ministry was appalled. An investigation had been launched, it said, warning the desecration of a war grave was a serious offence. The shock disappearance gave fresh impetus to the fight to save HMAS Perth. "It inspired us to recommend that the Navy do a routine patrol around the site where HMAS Perth is," says Indonesian National Centre for Archaeology researcher Shinatria Adhityatama. "Based on our monitoring the damage [to HMAS Perth] has been quite bad. Besides parts of the ship being stolen, its condition has also been worsened by nature. The ship was badly damaged when the Japanese bombed it." The centre is writing up its final report on HMAS Perth. Aside from routine patrols, it will also make a recommendation to heritage list the shipwreck under Indonesia's law concerning cultural conservation.
Washington: British Prime Minister Theresa May did well to get to the head of the queue of foreign leaders wanting to meet Donald Trump, but even before she got to the Oval Office on Friday, her trans-Atlantic dash had been overshadowed by the two big egos  all eyes had turned to a planned phone hook-up between Trump and Vladimir Putin the next day.

May was threading needles as she went  as a respectable British woman she needed to be careful not to fawn over the new US president. But at the risk of being just a rock in the Atlantic after the Brexit shock, she had a greater need for optics that said: despite walking away from Europe, Britain still was in the big league.

So as they emerged from the Oval Office she allowed Trump to hold her hand  brave woman!

That's the British for you. The same bravery as stoicism infuses the BBC, which reported straight-faced: "Theresa May's presence seemed to bring out a more restrained Donald Trump. Could she be building an image, a role, as a good influence on the rogue president?"
An Iraqi policeman carries a man suspected of involvement in the kidnapping of 50 university students in Mosul, Iraq. Credit:AP "But, I mean, then who is our enemy? Terrorism will cease. Absolutely. It will be like the 1970s. Within five years it'll be over if they get their state, if they get their own reality. Why should they bomb us?" It's vintage Napoleoni. It's why she keeps getting called up as the dial-an-expert for current affairs shows. As we speak, a car and driver idle outside, waiting to take her to a TV studio to debate terrorism once again. Loretta Napoleoni's latest book, Merchants of Men. She offers me a lift across London, and we chat in the car. With the "official" interview over she's more open and personal. She's more than a little sick of it, she confides. She's sick of being the dial-an-expert, sick of being set up in a studio debating some professor she's never even heard of.

"I'm tired," she says. "I've done this for 20 years, before anybody else was doing this  The analysis is [now] getting worse and worse, the field is getting more and more crowded [but] all they care about is selling their books." Napoleoni has a new book. It's a continuation on a theme  the financing of terror, which she's written about many times, always ahead of the curve. This time she was asked by her publisher to write about kidnapping, on the theory that this was a topic strangely untouched in the literature, and it seemed to be on the rise. At first, she says, she wondered what she would write. "I was stumped," she says. "There was a moment of panic."

But then she remembered she had run into professional hostage negotiators over the years, including one who negotiated with Islamic State. She called him and he agreed to talk. That interview is the gripping heart of the book. "I have been a negotiator for 30 years  never before have I seen such an increase in the number of abductions as during the last decade," he told her. "We are facing a kidnapping crisis of global proportions  This type of exponential growth makes my job more difficult; it increases the risks and reduces the rate of success. The kidnapping business is like a cancer that has metastasised." He told her of the "global ancillary industry" that grew up around this trade in human beings: profiteers, crooks, corrupt fixers. "In many regions of the world kidnapping is perceived as a mechanism that redistributes wealth from the rich West to the poorest areas of the planet," he said. "[Negotiators'] funds are spent in the local economy in the areas where the hostages are kept  which makes the locals regards abduction as a good business.

"If there are several hostages from countries that pay, then the ransom rises due to the competition among officials from the different countries to get their guys out before the others." Napoleoni had the core of her book. As her research continued she realised to what an extraordinary extent the abduction, trade and trafficking of people had become central to jihadist terrorism in North Africa and the Middle East. "All of a sudden I connected the dots," she says. "Kidnapping was not such a big business until the beginning of the century  and we're now facing a serious crisis." In Syria, Napoleoni wrote: "The insurgency is just a variation of criminal jihadism, a modern phenomenon that has only one loyalty: money." Regardless of how the various groups began, many sank into "the quicksand of criminal jihadism", branching into kidnapping when the money from their Saudi or Gulf state sponsors ran low. "The hunting season on foreign hostages began in Syria in 2012," she wrote.

A network of criminal gangs specialising in the abduction of foreigners, composed of former rebels and jihadists, soon emerged. They snatched people  often freelance journalists taking big risks while dreaming of scoops  and often resold them straight away. Former Syrian rebels or "simple criminals" pretending to be refugees set up in southern Turkish towns, targeting journalists seeking drivers and fixers to get them across the Syrian border. Napoleoni is angry. She says the extraordinary growth in the kidnapping "industry" is partly the fault of editors, who tacitly or directly encourage freelancers to take risks that experienced, expensive correspondents would not. But she also blames governments  especially a handful of European countries, and most especially Italy  for making kidnapping very, very lucrative. In 2014 over just three months IS released 12 hostages and netted an estimated 60-100 million ($85-142 million)  without anyone noticing.

I couldn't help but ask Napoleoni how much I'd be worth, if I was kidnapped. It depends. If my editors are on the ball, and they don't make the mistake of getting the government involved, they could quickly make a deal with my abductors and get me out for, say, $US100,000 ($133,000). But if the process drags on and I get traded into the hands of a bigger group  maybe 2 million. Assuming, of course, I'm not executed. Napoleoni says IS realised several years ago the powerful propaganda value of viral hostage execution videos  but they kept negotiating on the quiet, aware that some hostages were worth more in ransom than they were dead. But IS didn't invent "criminal jihadism". Napoleoni's book, Merchants of Men, traces it back to the turn of the century. As one Algerian former jihadist "Rashid" told her: "We began trading arms, drugs, then someone had an idea: let's have a go at kidnapping."

AQIM, al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (north-west Africa), was the catalyst. In 2003 European countries paid 5.5 million for the release of a group of foreigners in the region, and part of that sum founded AQIM  which according to one estimate by The New York Times went on to collect $US165 million in ransoms from 2003 to 2011. So profitable was the business, Napoleoni wrote, that al-Qaeda central in Afghanistan issued guidelines to its other offshoots, known as the "AQIM protocol", describing how to get into the business. There's one problem with kidnapping: supply tends to dry up. Corporations and aid organisations hire security teams; media organisations stop sending reporters. Hence, Napoleoni wrote, AQIM hit on a new, similar industry. By 2006, trafficking in migrants was keeping the economy of large parts of the Sahel afloat. In 2015 in Libya alone the migration rackets netted about 300 million. They used the old smuggling routes, newly reopened by the cocaine trade from South America. Migrants were sold over and over through a series of intermediaries. In a sadistic Groundhog Day-type ritual, Napoleoni wrote, migrants were captured and recaptured, ferried across the desert in containers, and kidnapped over and over again. They could be trapped inside the Libyan Sahara for months, sometimes years. Again, IS picked up the idea. Refugees in and from Syria and Iraq, paradoxically, find it safest to travel inside the "caliphate"  you just pay one tax at the border, rather than bribes each time you pass a checkpoint of one of the various armed insurgent groups. In 2015, IS "tax" on human cargo into Turkey generated $US500,000 a day  more than the tax on smuggled oil.

Napoleoni says it was a mix of supply and demand that drew the criminal jihadists to people smuggling. On the one hand, they needed the money and were looking for a new source. But at the same time there was an explosion in the number of people wanting to travel to Europe. The conventional explanation, from aid organisations and governments, is the refugee surge comes from unprecedented war and unrest in sub-Saharan Africa, Syria and Iraq. But Napoleoni says, also, "everybody wants to be part of the West". "This is not an exodus that is 100 per cent based on people being desperate," she says. "This is also an exodus linked to a quality of life that everybody wants to have. They have smartphones, they're much more exposed to the fact that compared to the rest of the world they don't have very good lives. This is the triumph of the Western model  this is a boomerang. We exported Coca-Cola and hamburgers, and now everybody wants to drink Coca-Cola and eat hamburgers where we do." So what to do?

Well, there's the Gaddafi approach. In exchange for Italian money Libya's former leader Muammar Gaddafi stopped the flow of migrants through Libya with cruelty  with concentration camps. "Do we want to go down that route?" asks Napoleoni. "Do we want to produce a 'final solution' for the migrants?" I ask her if Australia has chosen the Gaddafi model. "Absolutely," she says. She does not believe that Australia's solution would transfer to Europe, and not just because of our geography.

"If you get people [in the Mediterranean] in distress you have to rescue them," she says. "Australia is not a Catholic country, but can you imagine, the Pope in Italy, what would he do if something like [Australia's Pacific solution] happens? No. There's no way." So has she seen a successful policy that stops people smuggling? "No. You can't stop them. There's no way," she says. "The only way is to give these people that kind of quality of life that they're looking for, in their own countries." And what about the kidnapping? What do we do about the criminal jihadists? Can we get at them through their finances? Napoleoni, the expert in terrorist financing, is dismissive. Maybe once, she says. But now a terror attack is a loner driving a truck through a market. It's not about the money.
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COLE BAY:--- Police shot at least two suspects that robbed FAI WONG Restaurant on Wellington Road Cole Bay shortly after 9pm. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said a number of police patrol responded to the scene after they were called by the victims. Henson said when the suspects (at least four) of them saw police they began fleeing by foot. The police spokesman said police fired shots and two of the three suspects that were captured have been shot. He said the suspects were treated by ambulance personnel and were transported to the St. Maarten Medical Center for treatment. SMN News will update this article when more information becomes available.

Armed robbery two suspects shot

The Special Unit robbery is investigating an armed robbery which took place at Fai Wong Restaurant located on the Wellington Road in Cole Bay. The first call came into the 911 Dispatch at approximately 08.40 p.m. with the information that three armed and masked men had stormed into the establishment with their weapons and threatened the cashier and the clients. The suspects then robbed the establishment and also the clients of their belongings. After committing this act the suspects fled on foot. The emergency dispatch was immediately called and several police patrols were sent to the area to search for and apprehend the suspects in question. The first police patrol on the scene identified three suspects trying to flee in a small white Suzuki jeep which was parked nearby. When the suspects realized that the police had them in sight and were being chased, they jumped out of the vehicle and tried to flee on foot. This is when the police fired numerous shots at the suspects. One suspect could not leave the scene because he had been shot. The other suspects fled on foot through the area. During a search of the area by police found two other suspects which were found hiding behind a building, one of which also shot. These two suspects were also taken into custody. The two injured suspects were treated on the scene by paramedics and then transported to the Sint Maarten medical Center for further treatment. The area was immediately closed for the Special Unit Robbery to interview the victims and potential witnesses while the Forensic Department collect evidence. The two suspects who were treated at the hospital have been admitted for observation and further treatment. The third suspect has been detained and remains in custody. The suspect Suzuki jeep was confiscated for further investigation.

The investigation is in its early stages and when more information becomes available the media will be informed.

KPSM Press Release
PHILIPSBURG:--- Insel Air has hundreds of passengers in various countries due to the cancellation of all their flights. The airline canceled its flights and to date have not said or mentioned anything on their website. Passengers (patients) traveling on Insel to the Dominican Republic are stranded causing the USZV to make alternative arrangements for its patients that need to fly back to St. Maarten for medical emergencies.

On Wednesday two pilots in Curacao grounded their flights due to the lack of maintenance of the aircraft which Insel Air has limited due to lack of finances. The government of Curacao pumped NAF. 33M into the airline and less than two days later all Insel MD-80 and F-100 are grounded by Aruba and Curacao Aviation Authority. At the moment only two of Insel Aircraft are flying which are f-50, at least one flight is scheduled from Port of Spain to Curacao. Efforts made to reach management of Insel Air has proved futile thus far. So far Insel Air has not released any statement on their ongoing issues. The airline is yet to post the cancellation of the flights on their website.

Noteworthy is that several pilots have tendered their resignation since they were aware that the airline was going belly up and proper maintenance was not taking place making the air crafts not airworthy.
Scope of Electronic Design Automation (EDA) Global Market Trends (2016-2020)

Albany, New York, January 28, 2017: Market Research Hub has recently announced the addition of a new report to it broad database titled as Global Electronic Design Automation (EDA) Market: Size, Trends and Forecasts (2016-2020). The report provides an in-depth analysis of the global electronic design automation market with detailed analysis of market size on the basis of value.

Request for Sample Report: http://www.marketresearchhub.com/enquiry.php?type=S&repid=938716

Comprehensive examination of each of the segments of the market, namely, Computer-Aided Engineering, IC Physical Design & Verification, Semiconductor Intellectual Property (SIP), PCB & MCM and Services.

The report provides detailed regional analysis of the Americas, Asia-Pacific and Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA). The regional analysis of the Asia-Pacific EDA markets include market size by value along with the analysis of the Japanese EDA market in comparison to rest of the Asia-Pacific region.

Furthermore, it highlights key opportunities in the market and outlines the factors that are and will be driving the growth of the industry. Growth of the overall global electronic design automation market has also been forecasted for the period 2016-2020, taking into consideration the previous growth patterns, the growth drivers and the current and future trends. The competition in the global EDA market is stiff and dominated by the big players like Synopsis. Further, key players of the market Cadence Design Systems and Mentor Graphics are also profiled with their financial information and respective business strategies.

Make an Enquiry: http://www.marketresearchhub.com/enquiry.php?type=enquiry&repid=938716

Regional Coverage

Americas

Asia-Pacific

Europe,Middle East and Africa (EMEA)

Japan

Company Coverage

Synopsys, Inc.

Cadence Design Systems, Inc.

Mentor Graphics Corporation

Executive Summary

The global electronic design automation (EDA) market witnessed an upsurge at a significant CAGR during the span of 5 years, i.e., 2010-2015 and projections are made that the market would rise in the next five years i.e. 2016-2020 tremendously. The market is spread across Asia Pacific, Americas and Europe, Middle East & Africa. Among these regions, the Americas held the largest share, followed by the Asia-Pacific region.

The electronic design automation market can be segmented on the basis of the products in Computer-Aided Engineering, IC Physical Design & Verification, Semiconductor Intellectual Property (SIP), PCB & MCM and Services. The market is led by the Semiconductor Intellectual Property (SIP), followed by Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) and IC Physical Design & Verification. Although, Services segment is still emerging in the global EDA market.

Browse Full Info with TOC: http://www.marketresearchhub.com/report/global-electronic-design-automation-eda-market-size-trends-and-forecasts-2016-2020-report.html

The major growth drivers for the global electronic design automation (EDA) market are: chip design complexity, emergence of Internet of Thing (IoT), slowing of Moores law, adoption of FibFet architecture and demand for miniaturized devices. Despite the market is governed by various growth drivers, there are certain challenges faced by the market such as scalable design methodologies, customer & industry consolidation, rapid changes in the industry standards & customer requirements, uncertain global economy and highly competitive environment. Some of the recent trends in the market include the emergence of EDA technology in various industries, especially biology systems.
A new study by Agora Energiewende and Sandbag reviews EU power sector trends in 2016: Renewables growth was moderate, gas-fired power generation grew considerably and coal power experienced a sharp decline.

Power generation in the EU became much more climate friendly in 2016. CO2 emissions from power plants in the EU-28 declined by 4.5 per cent. The primary reason for this drop was the increased use of natural gas instead of coal for power generation, a trend that was most pronounced in the UK, but also in Italy, the Netherlands, Germany and Greece. Last years decline in CO2 emissions was possible despite a 0.5 per cent increase in electricity consumption across the EU, as the increase in production from renewables fully covered rising demand. This analysis originates from a report released today, titled Energy Transition in the Power Sector in Europe: State of Affairs in 2016. The study was carried out by the German energy think tank Agora Energiewende in cooperation with the British think tank Sandbag.

According to the study, the share of renewables in the European power mix rose from 29.2 to 29.6 per cent. Renewables thus remain the leading source of electricity ahead of nuclear, which had a 26.3% share. Wind and solar conditions were not particularly favourable last year, and as a result, wind and PV production barely exceeded 2015 levels. New growth was also below trend  although new wind installations were high, new solar and biomass were well below trend. However, the authors of the report have hope of stronger growth in green electricity in 2017 and beyond due to the recent and drastic fall in the cost of PV and offshore wind electricity. Both PV and wind are now the cheapest sources of new power in many parts of Europe.

Does the 2016 shift from coal to natural gas represent a lasting development? The authors say this is very uncertain. The shift was driven by the closure of many coal plants, and switch in the coal-gas economics by the extremely low natural gas prices that prevailed in the later months of the year. The outlook is currently dim: there are very few coal plant closures announced to 2020, the gas price has risen back above the price of coal, and the proposed reforms for the European Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) are unlikely to significantly raise the carbon price.

The EU Emissions Trading System did not encourage the shift from coal to natural gas. In 2016 the volume of certificates issued once again greatly exceeded the volume of certificates used. Accordingly, the oversupply of emissions allowances has grown even further, exceeding 3 billion tons for the first time to reach 3.2 billion tons in 2016. As only 1.8 billion tons of certificates were used in 2016, the volume of oversupply exceeds annual demand nearly by a factor of two.

The massive reserve of excess certificates in combination with continued oversupply means the EU ETS cannot set incentives for climate friendly investment up to 2030 in the absence of fundamental reform. As a result, the ETS is not fulfilling its core purpose, says Patrick Graichen, Director of Agora Energiewende. Effective incentives are only found in the UK, which has introduced a minimum price for CO2 emissions. This minimum price was a key driver of the drastic decline in British coal power production in 2016. If Europe would like to prevent even a small change in the price of coal from creating a jump in emissions, then legislators should further reform the ETS and couple it with national minimum prices for greenhouse gas emissions, Graichen recommends.

The energy transition in the European power sector slowed slightly in 2016: electricity consumption has stopped falling now that economic growth has picked up, and investment into new solar and biomass seems to have slowed. But, encouragingly, emissions still fell significantly, due to a switch from coal to gas. Further switching is possible, but only if more coal plants close, the carbon price significantly rises, or gas prices fall back down again, summarizes Dave Jones, analyst at Sandbag.

The study additionally details the progress that EU countries have achieved in expanding renewables and improving energy efficiency, two areas with binding national targets for 2020. Some reductions in electricity consumption have been achieved since 2010 in Sweden, Italy, the UK, Denmark, France and Portugal. By contrast, electricity consumption has increased inter alia in Poland and Bulgaria.

The EU-wide share of renewables in power generation rose 10 percentage points in 20102016, reaching 29.6 percent. This is a major achievement in the EU energy policy of the last decade, says Graichen. The EU should build upon this success in the period after 2020 by working now to create regulatory conditions that drive further growth. However, the EU Commissions Clean Energy for All Europeans package does not do enough in this regard.

Denmark, Lithuania, the UK, Italy and Germany have dramatically increased their share of electricity from renewables. Latvia, Hungary, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and Malta ranked last in green power development. The study, which presents these and many other facts and figures, is available for download free of charge at www.agora-energiewende.org and at http://www.sandbag.org.uk.

Energy Transition in the Power Sector in Europe: State of Affairs in 2016 | Review on the Developments in 2016 and Outlook on 2017

Source

Agora Energiewende / Sandbag 2017
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The first Axiom module (lower right, with body-mounted solar panels) would be coupled to the International Space Station (ISS). This module would use one port when docked to the ISS but will provide three additional ports.

Work is underway to establish the world's first private, international commercial space station, a complex that would serve a global community of sovereign and private astronauts.

The builders of the Axiom International Commercial Space Station aim to enlarge the landscape of low-Earth orbit, to create what they view as a "historic shift" in human spaceflight.

Making a space outpost available to nations, organizations and individuals could help make living and working in Earth orbit commonplace and support the exploration of deep space, Axiom representatives said. [6 Private Deep Space Habitats Paving the Way to Mars]

Upon retirement of the ISS, the Axiom module will be joined by additional elements that together will function as the Axiom International Commercial Space Station. (Image credit: Axiom Space)

A busy 2017

Amir Blachman, vice president of strategic development for Houston-based Axiom Space, said the company is shaping its plans to build the International Space Station's (ISS) international, privately owned successor.

The goals are to build an orbiting outpost that will host government agency astronauts, private companies and individuals for research, manufacturing and space exploration systems testing, and to grow a healthy space-tourism business, Blachman said.This year, Axiom's to-do list is hefty.

"We are now deep into conversations with our first nonsovereign astronaut customers," Blachman told Space.com in an exclusive interview. Axiom has begun conversations with 20-plus countries, he said, and is also working out the details with its first research and manufacturing tenant.

By 2017, Axiom wants to have contracts in place to start driving revenue and project advancements, Blachman said. Furthermore, by closing first and second rounds of funding this year, the group can start construction of the Axiom space station in earnest, he said.

"The pace is quick," Blachman said. "We're answering a demand that's clearly there  The demand is there; the need is there."

NASA now spends more than $300 million a year on ISS research, he added. [Building the International Space Station (Photos)]

In mid-January, Axiom partnered with Made In Space, an enterprising California-based company that has created 3D-printed products on board the ISS.

One aspect of that partnership is to work out the logistics of in-space manufacturing  how best to outfit an in-space factory with equipment, utilities, power and thermal management to handle prospective customers, Axiom Space representatives said.

"In-space manufacturing provides a unique class of products beneficial to the communications, materials and biomedical industries on Earth," Axiom Space President and CEO Michael Suffredini, a former NASA ISS program manager, said in a company statement.

The Axiom International Commercial Space Station is intended to serve as a facility for astronauts, as well as research and manufacturing missions. It could also become a base for testing deep-space systems. (Image credit: Axiom Space)

Commercial module

For now, the ISS is funded through at least 2024. Though an ISS de-orbit plan has been scripted, NASA officials have said they hope the $100 billion structure's life gets extended to 2028. That would be 30 years after the first ISS modules were launched into Earth orbit.

"As you can imagine, we keep our ear very close to the rail on that," Blachman said. "We have to operate on the assumption that the ISS could be de-orbited in 2024  perhaps deorbited sometime after that. There are structural and operational limitations, specifically the growing cost to maintain the ISS."

Blachman said that it currently costs about $7.5 million to support each astronaut every day on the ISS, "and we come in far below that." Axiom intends to start flying space travelers to the ISS in mid-2019, "and that means we start to train them in 2017," he said. "They will get the same level of training as NASA astronauts. They will be qualified to use all elements of the station."

Axiom's plan, which has been approved by NASA, calls for the company to attach its first commercial module to the ISS in late 2020. In the 2024-2028 time frame, that module would be detached from the ISS to help shape the Axiom commercial space station.

"That all goes back to whether the station is decommissioned in 2024 or later," Blachman said. "It changes the shape of our cash curve, but it doesn't change the operability of the business. It's still a highly profitable and very large business."

The Axiom International Commercial Space Station could help usher in a "historic shift" in human spaceflight, its developers say. (Image credit: Axiom Space)

Tried-and-true technologies

The Axiom International Commercial Space Station undertaking would also comprise tried-and-true technologies, Blachman said. The private orbiting facility would benefit from years of lessons learned with the ISS life-support systems and take advantage of modernized software and hardware, Blachman said.

"We're the private company that's going to continue the ISS legacy, so to speak," Blachman said. The lack of a plan for a replacement government-operated space station when the ISS is de-orbited bolsters that view, he added.

"Our government and our agencies recognize that commercial is really the way to go," Blachman said.

Going, going, almost gone? The $100 billion International Space Station is currently funded through 2024. (Image credit: NASA)

Revenue streams

A private space station "is likely an idea whose time has come," said Dylan Taylor, a leading angel investor of private space endeavors.

"There are several revenue streams that are near and present that could support a private space station," Taylor said, "including in-space manufacturing, microgravity research and tourism  for both individuals and sovereign nation astronauts  and in-space supply logistics."

Taylor told Space.com that it is a capital-intensive exercise, "but for the right team and architecture, coupled with patient capital, the revenue streams are there."

"If international governments do not vote to extend the life of the ISS, then a commercial substitute will be needed," said Derek Webber, author of the newly released book "No Bucks, No Buck Rogers: Creating the Business of Commercial Space" (Curtis Books, 2017).

Axiom isn't the only company vying to provide this commercial successor. Las Vegas-based company Bigelow Aerospace, for example, is building huge expandable space habitats that could serve a variety of customers. The company is currently testing a prototype habitat, known as the Bigelow Aerospace Bigelow Expandable Activity Module (BEAM), on the ISS.

"Bigelow has given a great start to the space tourism hotels initiative, both by demonstrating free-flying prototypes in orbit and coordinated operations with NASA in the case of Bigelow's BEAM initiative," Webber said.

"Axiom would build on this," Webber said, "and I look forward to seeing how they will provide for the needs of future orbital space tourists. The introduction of private space station hotels will create new opportunities, and indeed roles, for next-generation astronauts," he said.

For more information on Axiom, visit: www.axiomspace.com.

Leonard David is author of "Mars: Our Future on the Red Planet," published by National Geographic. The book is a companion to the National Geographic Channel series "Mars." A longtime writer for Space.com, David has been reporting on the space industry for more than five decades. Follow us @Spacedotcom, Facebook or Google+. Originally published on Space.com.
The Connecticut Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations released a statement Saturday condemning recent executive orders from President Donald Trump and advising non-citizens to seek legal counsel before traveling to or from the United States.

The organization said it would provide more information at a forum to be scheduled in Fairfield County. No date or place has been announced for that event.

The text of CAIRs correspondence, titled Important Information About the Muslim Ban,  is below:

Dear community members and friends As Salaam Alaikum

Like you, we only recently received the final, signed copies of President Trump's executive orders targeting Muslims and refugees. And like you, we are appalled at these attempts to erode our American values by targeting individuals based on race, religion, and national origin.

A complete analysis will take time, but we continue to hear from many of you, worried about what this means for your families. Accordingly, we wanted to reach out and offer some preliminary guidance. We will send out more details as they become clear.

What you need to know about the Order right now:

 Generally, non-citizens, including green card holders (lawful permanent residents), from Iraq, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen will be restricted from entering the U.S. for at least 90 days. Non-citizens from these countries who are presently in the U.S. should consult with an immigration attorney prior to any international travel. However, if you are a green card holder (lawful permanent resident) outside of the U.S. please reach out to an immigration attorney before you travel back to the U.S.

 The refugee program is being halted immediately, for at least 120 days. This will mean that anyone, anywhere in the process, will not move forward. There are reports of refugees who are in transit being detained when they arrive at a U.S. port of entry.

 The effort to resettle Syrian refugees in the U.S. is being halted indefinitely.

What you should do to protect yourself:

 If you are non-citizen from, even green card holders (lawful permanent residents) from one of the seven countries named above, and you are inside the U.S., please plan to delay all international travel for at least 90 days.

 If you are a non-citizen from one of the seven countries named above, and you are outside of the U.S., you may face issues at the airport. Please keep looking for updates in the coming days to assess your travel options. If you are facing an emergency at the airport or are coming home in the coming days, please have our numbers on hand ((860) 341-CAIR and 203-517-6526). It is recommended that you call an attorney before your travel back to the U.S. so that if there is an issue upon re-entry that the attorney is on hand to assist you.

 Whether you are a citizen or not, do not permit law enforcement to enter your home without a warrant. Even if they have a warrant, you should not speak to them without consulting with an attorney.

What you can do to push back against this:

 Call your members of Congress and the U.S. Senate at 202.224.3121 to ask them to speak out against anti-Muslim and anti-immigrant bigotry and oppose these Executive Orders

Community Forums with Immigration Attorney

CAIR is organizing community forums with immigration attorneys who can provide advice and guidance on how the Executive Order will affect you. We plan to hold one forum in the Hartford area and another forum in Fairfield County.

Sincerely,

Council on American-Islamic Relations, Connecticut
STAMFORD  City arts leaders view potential cuts to the national endowments for the arts and humanities as another blow to cultural programs already low on the government funding totem pole.

Its not really about the money, its about the larger picture, said Brett Raphael, artistic director for the Connecticut Ballet in Stamford. Juxtapose a $175 million NEA budget with a $600 billion Pentagon budget and it is a cultural slap in the face.

In addition to proposed cuts for the National Endowment for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which funds the National Public Radio and Public Broadcasting Service, would be privatized under President Donald Trumps plan.

All three agencies were established in 1965 by President Lyndon B. Johnson, and have been at risk of elimination several times since.

In many administrations, the NEA has come under fire and it has never ceased to exist. The NEA has strong bi-partisan support in the House and I feel they understand the value of the NEA and the good work they do every year, said Barbara Soroca, CEO of the Stamford Symphony, which does not receive NEA funding. People on both sides of the aisle love the arts, music, dance and opera. This is not a vote that will split a Congressional committee.

In 2016, the total NEA budget was $147.9 million, about .004 percent of the total federal budget. And while its not the first time these relatively small federal agencies have come under fire  the Obama administration cut the NEA budget by 6 percent in 2011  the elimination of the department as a whole could have huge implications for arts and culture in Fairfield County and statewide.

However, there have only been five direct NEA grants to Stamford arts groups since 1999, according to NEA records. The last one was $10,000 in 2005.

More Information See More Collapse

In the past, lobbying efforts have had an impact and funds have been restored, said Raphael, who runs the 35-year-old Stamford ballet that does not currently receive NEA funds. The difference this year is there is a Republican majority and Im not sure lobbying will work.

The INTAKE Music Program, which provides music education to about 75 underserved children three days a week at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Stamford, could lose as much as $15,000 next year if the NEA funding is eliminated, said Angelica Durrell, founder and artistic director of the program.

The group has been shifting fundraising efforts toward individuals and foundations as government funding has declined, Durrell said. The group received only $20,000 in funding last year from the state Office of the Arts compared to $50,000 when the program was formed in 2011, Durrell said.

Im 75 to 90 percent sure that funding we might lose we would be able to generate from different sources, Durrell said. At the same time, budget cuts to federal and state support raises concerns that we wont be able to serve the demand of families, children and the community for arts and arts education.

More than 80 percent of the NEA budget is distributed as grants and awards to organizations across the country, and 40 percent of the NEAs grant-making budget is awarded directly to the states through their state and regional arts agencies. That funding is then dispersed through the state arts departments.

Kristina Newman Scott, director of culture for the state Department of Economic and Community Developments Office of the Arts, remains positive about the NEAs future.

The National Assembly of State Arts Agencies has been working with the National Endowment for the Arts and the Trump Administration and there is no indication they are eliminating the NEA, Scott said. The Trump transition team has sent someone in to spend the next 120 days doing some exploration and research to understand the work of NEA. That is a good indicator that they are taking a thoughtful approach to the services the NEA provides.

Grants distributed nationwide

In 2016, the NEA recommended more than 2,400 grants in nearly 16,000 communities in every congressional district in the country. A review of NEA direct grants showed the majority go to small and medium-sized organizations such as the Center for Contemporary Printmaking, which tend to support projects that benefit audiences that otherwise might not have access to arts programming.

Fairfield University and CCP were the only two Fairfield County organizations to receive grants this fiscal year, but more than $1 million has been awarded through small, direct grants to Fairfield County arts nonprofits since 2000. Bridgeport has received the most in Fairfield County, earning $330,000 in grant funding for the arts. More than half of that has gone to Neighborhood Studios, a Bridgeport-based nonprofit that provides arts education to children at risk and those with special needs throughout Fairfield County.

While direct grant funding is a significant component of the NEA, the agency also provides indirect support for arts education and collaborative programs like Poetry Out Loud and Blue Star Museums, which gives discounts to military and law enforcement families. More than 50 Connecticut museums participated in the program last year, including Norwalks Stepping Stones Museum.

Federal agencies and departments also partner with the NEA to leverage investments in the communities they serve, with every $1 of NEA direct funding earning up to $9 in private and other public funds. This resulted in $500 million in matching support in 2016.

David Green, director of Programs and Membership for the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County, which is based in Norwalk, said the impact of the NEA reaches far beyond its grant-making abilities.

Just the very important fact of the leadership of the NEA, they really provide leadership in terms of whats most effective, Green said. They do a lot of research into the impact of the arts in local communities, and leaders like Jane Chu have been immensely inspirational, as shes been traveling the country and talking to people about the importance of the arts in their lives. So I guess its three levels of impact for Connecticut  the leadership and inspiration, the direct grants to a few larger organizations and then the support to the state Office of the Arts.

During fiscal year 2010, the most recent data available, aggregate nonprofit sector spending by both the state of Connecticuts nonprofit arts and culture organizations and their audiences totaled $653 million.

Arts mean jobs in Fairfield County

In Fairfield County, total arts and culture spending reached $130 million in 2012, and event spending alone generated $46 million excluding the cost of admission. Arts and culture organizations are estimated to provide about 4,000 full-time jobs in the county, and generate an additional $10.5 million in local and state government revenue.

As of now, NEA officials are proceeding with business as usual thanks to a continuing resolution that protects their budget through April 2017.

Like most federal agencies, the National Endowment for the Arts is operating under a Continuing Resolution for FY17, which goes through April 2017, an NEA spokesperson said via email. We look forward to participating in the usual budget process for the FY18 budget with the Office of Management and Budget and The White House. In the meantime, we continue to do our work; processing grants, advising applicants, convening review panels, and myriad other tasks.

U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, supported robust funding for the NEA and NEH, said he was disappointed Congress failed to enact a full-year spending bill.

I believe that federal funding for the arts is one of the best investments this nation makes, Murphy said.

But more than their positive economic impact, the arts strengthen and build communities, helping to revitalize our cities and providing venues for people from disparate communities to come together and share a common experience.

kkrasselt@scni.com; 203-354-1021; @kaitlynkrasselt
STAMFORD  Madonna Badger has been haunted by what she told the fire marshal who questioned her at the hospital hours after her house burned, killing her daughters and parents.

She said it must have been the ashes.

Since that Christmas Day in 2011, Badger has feared she handed authorities the excuse they needed to surreptitiously knock down her house the day after the fire, destroying any evidence of what else might have caused it.

Badger has said city authorities ignored what she told them she witnessed as she climbed through the smoke onto the roof of her porch in the early-morning darkness, trying to get to her daughters bedroom windows.

The electrical meter on the outside of her house was throwing off big white sparks and an incredible sound, Badger told them. More sparks popped along the power lines on Shippan Avenue.

But authorities focused on what she said about the ashes that she and her then-boyfriend had swept from the hearth on Christmas Eve and placed in the mudroom. Theyd put their hands in the bag to make sure the ashes were cold, Badger told authorities. She quickly despaired, though, that shed been mistaken.

In the days after the fire, she learned city officials  after a cursory investigation  tore down her house while it was still smoldering, quickly carting the debris to a landfill. They did it without her permission, as the law requires, then set the blame on the ashes and refused to field her questions.

To get answers, Badger filed a civil suit against the city. So did her former husband, Matthew Badger. Both allege the city failed to properly inspect work being done at Badgers house, issued a building permit to an unregistered contractor, and approved plans that violated state codes.

Now depositions from Matthew Badgers lawsuit show Madonna wasnt the only one to raise the prospect of an electrical cause, or the only one to be ignored.

It was electrical

According to a new filing in the lawsuit in state Superior Court in Hartford, Madonna Badgers contractor and then-boyfriend, Michael Borcina, whod escaped the fire from a bedroom window, said something to Deputy Chief William Smith as they stood outside the burning house.

Before he was put into an ambulance, Borcina told Smith he thought the fire was electrical.

The incident was revealed during testimony from former Fire Marshal Barry Callahan. According to the lawsuit, Callahan emailed a Stamford police lieutenant 11 days after the fire, asking for detectives to question Borcina about the statement.

But Borcinas statement was not pursued, and it was not included in the final fire report, Callahan testified.

Why not? Matthew Badgers lawyer asked.

I dont know, Callahan replied.

The lawyer asked Callahan whether Borcinas statement was significant, given that he and Madonna Badger were the only witnesses to the fire. Callahan said he didnt know. The lawyer asked whether Madonna Badgers statement about the ashes was significant. Callahan said it was.

The lawsuit alleges there were multiple drafts of the report, but they were destroyed. The fire killed 9-year-old Lily Badger, her twin sisters, Grace and Sarah, 7, and their grandparents, Lomer and Pauline Johnson.

In his deposition, Callahan conceded it was a mistake to destroy the house and cart it off. It was evidence, he said.

Muddied probe

Madonna Badger has said she wanted to know more about the mudroom, where the ashes were placed in a bag against the wall, because on the other side of that wall hung the electrical meter she saw exploding that Christmas morning.

According to the lawsuit, no one from the city examined the meter or circuits in the mudroom or circuit breakers or other electrical components in the house.

Chief Building Official Robert DeMarco went into the basement the day after the fire with a deputy fire marshal and, after a 10-minute inspection, determined the electrical panels were not the cause. The demolition company then went to work immediately.

According to the lawsuit, DeMarco admitted in his deposition that he is not a trained investigator. He also testified that his boss, Director of Operations Ernie Orgera, ordered him to tear down the house immediately. Orgera testified DeMarco called for the house to be demolished because it was unsafe.

But witnesses testified firefighters and others were walking inside the house after the blaze was extinguished, according to the lawsuit. It states the half-burned house was not a safety hazard because it was on a dead-end street a good distance from the curb; no part of it fell; authorities did not post signs or ask police to secure it; and neighbors were not evacuated. The damage was so contained, the lawsuit states, that Badgers backyard garage is still standing.

Documents and witness statements cited in the lawsuit raise many more questions. State law requires, for example, that a permit to demolish a house be signed by the owner. But DeMarco had an employee of the demolition company sign the permit application for Madonna Badger, the suit states.

Worse, the application was signed on Dec. 27, 2011, the day after the house was torn down, it states. And DeMarco didnt approve the permit until Jan. 11, 2012, two weeks after the building and its contents were destroyed.

Jury selection in Matthew Badgers suit is scheduled to begin in April. Similar testimony has been taken in Madonna Badgers suit, which is to get a trial assignment after the discovery phase wraps up this month.

In her guilt and despair in the hours after the fire, Madonna Badger said it must have been the ashes. Rising out of them five years later is the specter that it could have been something else.

angela.carella@scni.com; 203-964-2296; stamfordadvocate.com/angelacarella
We write in response to the recent Connecticut Education Association report on charter school management fees (Jan. 13 news story, Teachers union takes issue with charter fees) and more specifically about two of the schools mentioned in that report, Trailblazers Academy and Stamford Academy. Throughout that report, there seems to be a misunderstanding of what our schools are, who we serve, what we do, and the costs associated with running our schools.

We dont charge any charter management fees. The fees referred to in the report are the administrative costs of operating our schools, such as staff time related to accounting, insurance, training, technology, custodial and maintenance, student transportation, data evaluation, and volunteer engagement. And the reason these costs look like they doubled is that the State Department of Education requested that we move the cost of our family advocate program into administrative costs within our accounting system. Family advocates are our counselors (10 full-time staff between the two schools) who help our high-need students with their significant nonacademic challenges  and shifting that existing expense into administrative costs roughly doubled that line item. (In 2015-16, family advocate services accounted for $792,427 of our $1,523,490 in administrative costs.) But it was just a reclassification of the cost of counseling services we already provided.
A s the year of the rooster dawns, London is pulling out all the stops to celebrate the arrival of another Chinese New Year.

The celebrations start on Saturday January 28 and will run for around two weeks in varying forms, ending on February 2.

The celebrations are nothing new. For decades London has hosted some of the globes biggest Chinese New Year celebrations outside China itself.

Also see: Where to celebrate Chinese New Year 2017 in London

Browse our gallery above to see some choice shots of the revelry through the years, dating from 1974 to present.

Chinese Near Year is the most important date in the Chinese calendar. It is based on the ancient Chinese lunar calendar and falls on the second new moon after winter solstice, which is why the exact date changes every year.

Also see: The best regional Chinese food in London

This year is the year of the tenth Chinese zodiac, the rooster  also recognised in 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993 and 2005.

But this is not just any year of the rooster, this is the year of the fire rooster. People born in 1957 or 2017 are fire roosters, and are thought to be talkative, popular in a crowd and loyal, with a strong sense of timekeeping.

Also see: Things to do in London this weekend

Their lucky colours are gold, brown and yellow but they should avoid the colour red.

Follow Going Out on Facebook and on Twitter @ESgoingout
A haul of deadly weapons were seized by police in east London after a gang of 20 yobs were seen fighting with bats, poles and knives.

Police raced to the scene in Tower Hamlets on Thursday evening after reports of a brawl between a group of male youths in several cars.

PC Brian Coll of the Met Polices Tower Hamlets branch said by the time officers arrived the yobs had mainly dispersed.

PC Coll told the Standard: The calls stated they were armed with bats, poles and knives and had several cars.

Weapons: The knives seized in east London. / Tower Hamlets MPS

Officers began scouring the area for weapons and found several deadly knives including a machete sword-style knife and a dagger.

The knives had been found in a company pool car which had been abandoned, police said. The car and weapons were both seized.

The discovery comes towards the end of a new week-long Met Police crackdown on knife crime after a string of stabbings in the capital.

The drive against gangs has seen police carry out more weapon sweeps, stop and search action and targeted operations over the past week.

The long-planned crackdown, which is phase seven of Operation Sceptre, will run until Sunday.

In similar knife drives in the past the Mets officers carried out over 5,700 sweeps and recovered more than 1,430 weapons.
A south Londoner knocked a shopkeeper out cold by thumping him with a fake gun during an argument over womens belts.

Christopher Dawson, 58, went into the womens accessories shop in Streatham hoping to do business with the shopkeeper.

But Dawson grew furious when the owner of the Streatham High Road shop refused his deal to offer four belts in exchange for 50.

After threatening the shopkeeper, Dawson returned to the south London shop five days later armed with a gun  which later turned out to be fake.

Jailed: Christopher Dawson attacked a shopkeeper in a row over belts. / Met Police

Dawson repeatedly hit the shopkeeper on the head with the weapon, knocking him unconscious.

More than five months after the attack the shop owner is still suffering from problems with his eyesight.

Police launched an investigation and on January 13 Dawson was jailed for four years at Inner London Crown Court.

Dawson had pleaded guilty to GBH with intent and possession of an imitation firearm.
P olice are hunting a pervert who sexually assaulted two women near Uxbridge Bus Station in west London.

Described as wearing a black turban and grubby baggy clothes, the man approached a lone 36-year-old woman at the back of a Route U1 bus on September 15. He then sexually assaulted her.

Nearly two weeks later, on September 28, a 20-year-old woman was approached as she waited for a bus nearby on Oxford Road.

Police said the suspect, thought to be in his mid 20s, engaged her in conversation for before sexually assaulting her too.

The man is described as between 5ft 4ins and 5ft 9ins tall, with a thin face and black beard.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Roads and Transport Policing Command Reactive Crime Team by email on RTPC-ReactiveTeamOne@met.pnn.police.uk or via 101.
S quatters have taken up residence inside a 15 million mansion in Belgravia amid hopes of turning it into a homeless shelter.

Activists from the Autonomous Nation of Anarchist Libertarians (Anal) have occupied the five-storey house believed to be owned by Russian oligarch Andrey Goncharenko since last week.

The group said it wants to use the plush property off Eaton Square to accommodate Londons rough sleepers but added they are likely to be turfed out after a court hearing expected on Tuesday.

Members said up to 10 homeless people have slept in the mansion per night and that the group was working with charities to spread the word about the makeshift shelter.

Squatter Jed Miller, 25, said the group did not know the property belonged to Mr Goncharenko until they gained access on Tuesday January 25, when they searched for the owner online.

Homeless shelter plans: The group want the mansion to accommodate London's rough sleepers / David Mirzoeff/PA Wire

He said: "It's freezing cold out at the moment. This space should be re-appropriated and put back into use.

"I think a lot of people will sympathise with what we are doing. Quite a lot of working class people are only one or two paycheques away from being homeless themselves."

Police were called to the property, which Anal said had been lying empty, after the squatters moved in, but the occupiers said officers had not been back since.

The squatters said a hearing at Westminster Magistrates' Court that was originally set to take place on Thursday has been moved forward and will now take place on Tuesday.

They believe the date was changed after the building's owner "threw money at the case", and the group expects the court will find in favour of Mr Goncharenko, who owns another three properties in central London.

Another member of the group, called Paul, said it was aiming to highlight the unfairness of houses like Mr Goncharenko's lying empty while people were forced to sleep outside in freezing conditions.

He said: "I would have thought the mayor would say 'if there are buildings lying empty for years we should find people who will open them up'.

"It's a mark on society if we let people sleep on the streets. It's about time we as a people stood up and said we're not going to take it any more."
D onald Trump and Theresa May were spotted holding hands briefly as they walked through the White House after their first meeting.

The Prime Minister flew to the US this week to become the first world leader to meet the newly-inaugurated US President.

President Trump hailed the special relationship between the two nations, describing them as one of the great forces in history for justice and for peace.

The two leaders were seen holding hands just moments before they delivered a joint news conference.

Hand of friendship: The US and UK leaders hold hands briefly. / EPA

Former billionaire businessman Donald Trump told reporters that he believed the UK and US were going to have a fantastic relationship and said their bond was stronger than ever.

'Special relationship': Donald Trump and Theresa May hold hands 1 /17 'Special relationship': Donald Trump and Theresa May hold hands US President Donald J. Trump holds hands with British Prime Minister Theresa May EPA US President Donald J. Trump holds hands with British Prime Minister Theresa May EPA US President Donald J. Trump holds hands with British Prime Minister Theresa May EPA US President Donald J. Trump holds hands with British Prime Minister Theresa May AP Prime Minister Theresa May and US President Donald Trump walk along the White House Colonnade PA British Prime Minister Theresa May laughs during a news conference with President Donald Trump AP Prime Minister Theresa May meeting US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office PA President Donald Trump reaches out to shake hands with British Prime Minister Theresa May AP Prime Minister Theresa May with US President Donald Trump during their joint press conference PA Prime Minister Theresa May meeting US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office of the White House PA Prime Minister Theresa May meeting US President Donald Trump by a bust of Sir Winston Churchill in the Oval Office PA Prime Minister Theresa May meeting US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office of the White House PA White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer posted this photo on Twitter. PA

Opening the press conference, President Trump said: I am honoured to have the Prime Minister here for our first official visit from a foreign leader.

Hand-holding: Donald Trump and Theresa May hold hands as they walk to the press conference. / AP

It is our first visit so a great honour.

The special relationship between our two countries has been one of the great forces for justice and for peace and by the way, my mother was born in Scotland - Stornoway, which is serious Scotland.

Today the United States renews our deep bond with Britain, from the military, financial, cultural and political - we have one of the great bonds and we pledge our lasting support to this most special relationship.

Other photos from Mrs Mays two-day trip show the US President and Mrs May grinning at each other as they pose for the media.
L abour MPs have put forward a Commons motion to throw out a Government bill which would pave the way for Britain to leave the European Union.

Lewisham MP Heidi Alexander, who resigned from the shadow cabinet in June, has tabled an amendment with the support of 18 backbenchers which could see the bill scrapped.

Writing for the Huffington Post, Ms Alexander said she decided to act as she described Theresa Mays Brexit strategy as a slow motion car crash.

She said she was also motivated over fears people could lose their jobs and the wider impact of the economy and argued voters were unaware Brexit meant quitting the single market.

Ms Alexander wrote: The words single market werent on the ballot paper.

Tabled: The Brexit bill has been published by the Government / PA wire

I can barely remember hearing the phrase customs union before the referendum - and yet we were fed a daily pack of lies about money which would automatically become available for the NHS, Turkey joining the EU and the swarms of refugees heading for our shores.

"Leave campaigner after leave campaigner took to the airwaves to say this wasnt about leaving the Single Market.

Page 72 of the Conservative manifesto said they would safeguard British interests in the Single Market and then last week, an unelected Prime Minister announces she is pulling us out of the worlds largest trading bloc.

That might be what democracy means to some, but it is not what it means to me.

I acknowledge the result of the referendum but dont expect me to respect the process which led to it.

"I feel like I am watching a slow motion car crash and I have to try to do something about it.

"If my amendment is selected for debate, I will vote for my amendment. Irrespective of whether that happens or not, I will vote against triggering Article 50."

Her motion is said to be backed by Tulip Siddiq, who resigned from the shadow cabinet on Thursday, former leadership candidate Owen Smith and Stella Creasy.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has sparked fears of a revolt among his own MPs after he imposed a three-line whip to support the Governments bill.

So far, two shadow ministers have resigned from their frontbench positions.

The Governments European Union (Notification of Withdrawal) Bill bill is due to be debated by MPs on Tuesday and could clear the Commons on Wednesday.

It will then move to the House of Lords.

Theresa May announced the Government would provide further details of its Brexit plans in a formal policy document on Wednesday.
T heresa May has come under fire after she repeatedly refused to condemn Donald Trumps ban on refugees entering the United States.

The Prime Minister was attacked after she dodged questions about her view on the Presidents controversial policy before she later said it was up to America to set its own rules.

Mr Trump has barred all refugees from entering the US for four months but blocked those from war-ravaged Syria indefinitely as part of a plan to stop "radical Islamic terrorists".

A 90-day ban on entry to the US from seven Muslim-majority nations has been imposed which has led airlines to turn away passengers from America bound flights.

She was repeatedly pressed on her view about it at a press conference with Binali Yildirim in Ankara / PA

Asked about Mr Trumps immigration crackdown, the Prime Minister decided to focus on the action taken by Britain to help refugees.

Mrs May failed to answer the question when pressed a second time and only addressed the issue when reporters heckled "what about the US?" during her press conference with Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim in Ankara.

Mrs May said: The United States is responsible for the United States policy on refugees.

Donald Trump has banned all refugees from entering the United States for four months / AP

"The United Kingdom is responsible for the United Kingdom's policy on refugees and our policy on refugees is to have a number of voluntary schemes to bring Syrian refugees into the country, particularly those who are most vulnerable, but also to provide significant financial contributions to support refugees in countries surrounding Syria."

Mr Yildirim had already slammed the ban by saying the only way to tackle the refugee crisis was to deal with the reasons they were fleeing.

Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron claimed Mrs May refusal to publicly lambast Mr Trump showed she was desperate for a trade deal at any price.

He said: Theresa May has failed to criticise President Trump for turning away and banning refugees whose only crime is to believe in a different religion.

"Not only is this shocking even by her standards, it cannot be allowed to stand. The President's actions have horrified the world, and this is a moment when she has to show what side she is on.

"Perhaps she feels in a weak position on Syrian refugees because her own record on this is so lamentable.

"More likely it is because she is so desperate for a trade deal at any price after her decision to haul Britain out of the world's largest market that she will turn a blind eye to anything.
T heresa May has arrived in Turkey on a mission to pave the way for post-Brexit trade deals.

As the Prime Minister landed in Ankara, Downing Street announced that the UK and Turkey have agreed to set up a new joint working group to carry out the groundwork for a deal.

In her one-day visit, Mrs May was set for talks with the country's president Recep Tayyip Erdogan and PM Binali Yildirim.

Mrs May's arrival, straight from her White House meeting with US president Donald Trump, comes at a tense moment, with Turkey threatening to tear up a migration agreement with EU member Greece because of a row over its refusal to extradite troops allegedly involved in last year's botched coup.

The leaders met to discuss a post-Brexit trade deal / PA

The PM is under pressure to confront Mr Erdogan over human rights, following his crackdown on dissent in the wake of the coup, which has seen a wave of arrests, the closure of numerous media outlets and the removal of thousands of public officials - including judges, academics and teachers - from their jobs.

Amnesty International said the human rights situation has "deteriorated markedly" during the state of emergency imposed by Mr Erdogan.

The organisation's UK director Kate Allen said the visit was a "vital opportunity" for Mrs May to ask "probing questions" about allegations of excessive use of force and ill-treatment in detention.

Downing Street was unable to confirm whether human rights would be raised during the talks, though aides did not rule it out.

"The Prime Minister's approach is quite clear - she thinks it's important, and in the UK's national interest, to engage with Turkey on a range of issues, from defence and security co-operation to capitalising on trade opportunities," said a Number 10 source.

"We have already expressed our strong support for Turkey's democracy and institutions following the coup - but we have also been clear that we urge Turkey to ensure that their response is proportionate, justified and in line with international human rights obligations."

Number 10 said Mrs May was keen to take advantage of the opportunities for increased trade with Turkey that will become available after Britain's exit from the EU.

Already, working groups have been set up with around a dozen countries around the globe to pave the way for free trade agreements, though formal negotiations cannot take place until the UK has left the EU.

The PM also wants to discuss increased security co-operation particularly in the areas of aviation security and counter-terrorism. She and Mr Erdogan are expected to agree to closer collaboration through a strategic security partnership.

Mrs May arrived for her talks with Mr Erdogan to find her own image dominating television screens in the presidential palace, which were showing footage of her visit to the White House on Friday.

As she sat down to begin talks, the Turkish president pointed out the footage playing on a huge TV screen. "It was well covered in Turkey," an aide to the president explained, as Mrs May laughed in surprise.

'Special relationship': Donald Trump and Theresa May hold hands 1 /17 'Special relationship': Donald Trump and Theresa May hold hands US President Donald J. Trump holds hands with British Prime Minister Theresa May EPA US President Donald J. Trump holds hands with British Prime Minister Theresa May EPA US President Donald J. Trump holds hands with British Prime Minister Theresa May EPA US President Donald J. Trump holds hands with British Prime Minister Theresa May AP Prime Minister Theresa May and US President Donald Trump walk along the White House Colonnade PA British Prime Minister Theresa May laughs during a news conference with President Donald Trump AP Prime Minister Theresa May meeting US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office PA President Donald Trump reaches out to shake hands with British Prime Minister Theresa May AP Prime Minister Theresa May with US President Donald Trump during their joint press conference PA Prime Minister Theresa May meeting US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office of the White House PA Prime Minister Theresa May meeting US President Donald Trump by a bust of Sir Winston Churchill in the Oval Office PA Prime Minister Theresa May meeting US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office of the White House PA White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer posted this photo on Twitter. PA

Mr Erdogan asked how the weather in Ankara - currently under a light coating of snow - compared to Washington. "Here is colder," she replied.

Before meeting the president, Mrs May paid her respects at the tomb of Kemal Ataturk, the founder of the modern Turkish republic.

Dressed in sombre black, the PM bowed her head in respect after laying a large red and white wreath - the colours of Turkey's flag - before Ataturk's sarcophagus inside the imposing mausoleum building which perches on a hill in the centre of Ankara.

Mrs May then signed her name in the visitors' book, beneath the message: "It is a great honour to visit this special place of remembrance to the founding father of modern Turkey.

"Let us together renew our efforts to fulfil Ataturk's vision of peace at home and peace in the world."
T heresa May and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan have struck a 100 million-plus defence deal on new fighter jets for Turkey.

The announcement came during the Prime Minister's visit to the Turkish capital Ankara, where she became the first Western leader to meet Mr Erdogan since last year's attempted coup.

The deal will see Britain help develop fighter jets for the Turkish air force.

Mrs May told the president that Britain stood with his defence of Turkey's democracy, but warned him it was "important" for him to uphold human rights.

Speaking to Mr Erdogan as they addressed the press at his presidential palace, Mrs May said: "Turkey is one of the UK's oldest friends, our relations stretch back over 400 years but there is much that we can do in the future to bulid on that relationship together.

Striking a deal: Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Prime Minister Theresa May shake hands after their meeting at the presidential complex in Ankara ( AFP PHOTO / Adem ALTANADEM ALTAN/AFP/Getty Images) / AFP PHOTO / Adem ALTANADEM ALTAN/AFP/Getty Images

"I'm proud the UK stood with you on July 15 last year in defence of your democracy. Now it's important that Turkey sustains that democracy by maintaining the rule of law and upholding its international human rights obligations, as the government has undertaken to do."

Mrs May faced pressure to raise human rights issues with the Turkish president, who has imposed a state of emergency involving waves of arrests, the closure of numerous media outlets and the removal of thousands of public officials - including judges, academics and teachers - from their jobs.

Speaking before the PM's arrival in Turkey, Amnesty International's UK director Kate Allen said the visit was a "vital opportunity" for Mrs May to ask "probing questions" about allegations of excessive use of force and ill-treatment of detainees by Mr Erdogan's security forces.

The human rights situation in Turkey had "deteriorated markedly" during the state of emergency imposed after last July's botched coup, said Amnesty.

Mrs May and Mr Erdogan also discussed counter-terrorism, security, trade and migration in talks which stretched for an hour longer than scheduled.

During the visit, the UK-based BAE Systems and Turkish Aerospace Industries signed a Heads of Agreement document establishing a partnership for the continued development of the Turkish Fighter Programme (TF-X).

British officials said the contract would safeguard high-skill jobs at BAE Systems and could lead to opportunities worth billions of pounds over the lifetime of the project, with potential future contracts to provide engines, weapons, radars and sensors.

It was hoped the deal would pave the way for a deeper defence partnership, effectively making the UK Turkey's partner of choice for key aerospace technology.

Mrs May, who has made preparations for closer post-Brexit trading links her top priority for the Turkey trip, said: "This agreement underlines once again that Britain is a great, global, trading nation and that we are open for business.

"It marks the start of a new and deeper trading relationship with Turkey and will potentially secure British and Turkish jobs and prosperity for decades to come."
V eteran British actor Sir John Hurt has died from cancer aged 77.

Tributes have poured into the star, who was best known for his roles as the title character in The Elephant Man, wizard Mr Ollivander in the Harry Potter films and Quentin Crisp in The Naked Civil Servant.

During his illustrious career Sir John was twice-nominated for Oscar and received four Baftas including a lifetime achievement award for his outstanding contribution to British cinema.

His agent, Charles McDonald, confirmed on Saturday Sir John had died after suffering from pancreatic cancer.

BAFTA: Sir John was awarded a lifetime achievement award in 2012. / EPA

Hollywood legend Mel Brooks described him as "a truly magnificent talent".

"No one could have played The Elephant Man more memorably. He carried that film into cinematic immortality. He will be sorely missed," he added.

Young: Actor John Hurt after being nominated for an Oscar for his role in The Elephant Man. / ASSOCIATED PRESS

Stephen Fry celebrated the "great man" for excelling as an actor, whether he was working in cinema, television or on the stage.

Richard E Grant tweeted: "So so sad to have lost such an extraordinary talent and friend. Sir John Hurt. R. I. P."

News broke of the actors cancer diagnosis in June 2015.

Sir John, who received his two Oscar nods for the roles in The Elephant Man and Midnight Express, said at the time: "I have always been open about the way in which I conduct my life and in that spirit I would like to make a statement.

"I have recently been diagnosed with early stage pancreatic cancer. I am undergoing treatment and am more than optimistic about a satisfactory outcome, as indeed is the medical team.

Sir John Hurt being knighted by the Queen. / PA

"I am continuing to focus on my professional commitments and will shortly be recording Jeffrey Bernard Is Unwell (one of life's small ironies!) for BBC Radio 4."

He later told the Radio Times: "I can't say I worry about mortality, but it's impossible to get to my age and not have a little contemplation of it.

British actor John Hurt and his wife Anwen Rees Meyers. / EPA

"We're all just passing time, and occupy our chair very briefly. But my treatment is going terrifically well, so I'm optimistic."

Despite his illness, he continued to work at a prodigious rate, starring in Jackie Kennedy biopic Jackie, thriller Damascus Cover and the upcoming biopic of boxer Lenny McLean, My Name Is Lenny.

Sir John enjoyed a big hit with sci-fi horror Alien in 1979 and his character's final scene has been frequently named as one of the most memorable in cinematic history.

He was knighted by the Queen for services to drama at an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle in 2015.
A n Oscar-nominated Iranian film director will not be able to attend the Hollywood awards because of Donald Trumps immigration crackdown, it was claimed.

Asghar Farhadi is in the running to scoop the best foreign film prize for The Salesman but fears have been raised he may not be among the crowd when the winner is announced.

Mr Trump has suspended anyone arriving from Mr Farhadis native Iran and six other Muslim-majority countries for 90 days.

The US President also barred refugees from entering the country for four months and placed an indefinite ban on Syrians coming into the US until significant changes are made.

Trita Parsi, the president of the National Iranian American Council (NIAC), said the restrictions meant Mr Farhadi would miss the chance to claim his second Oscar award.

He tweeted: Confirmed: Iran's Asghar Farhadi won't be let into the US to attend Oscar's. He's nominated for best foreign language film...

Mr Farhadi previously collected an Academy Award from Sandra Bullock for best foreign film in 201 for his film A Separation.

The NIAC branded the ban a dark day for the United States.

A statement on its website said: This action endangers the lives of Americans and will make us far less safe. It will divert resources away from fighting terrorism in order to crack down on our loved ones.

It will feed xenophobia and turn Americans against one another.

And it is a gift to groups like ISIS who will use this as a recruitment tool and who must be ecstatic to see America tearing itself apart from within.

We want America to be safe and strong. Barring our doors, turning us against one another, stoking fears of foreign and religious threats, and targeting random countries is no way to do that.

Mr Trump said the new vetting measures were aimed at keeping "radical Islamic terrorists" out of the country.

As he signed the executive order on Friday, he said bluntly: "We don't want them here."

The President said he only wants to admit people to the United States who will support the country.
A round the world people are celebrating the most important holiday in the Chinese calendar.

Chinese New Year - based on the ancient lunar calendar  will this weekend see millions of people join the celebrations with fireworks, gifts and colourful decorations.

The international celebration will be celebrated in countries across the globe including Hong Kong, Taiwan, the Philippines, Spain, Vietnam, Australia and London.

Celebrations vary depending on where they are held, but this year the lucky colours are gold, brown and yellow which are associated with 2017s animal  the rooster.

Australia: Celebrations in Sydney. (REUTERS) / Reuters

In the UK, London is welcoming in the Chinese New Year  also known as the Spring Festival  on Saturday and Sunday.

Brazil: The celebrations in Rio de Janeiro. (REUTERS) / Reuters

The centre of Londons celebrations will be the free parade on Sunday, which will start at 10am in Trafalgar Square.

Floats and dancing lions will parade into Chinatown and Shaftesbury Avenue will host a stage featuring local artists and performers.

Nearby on Charing Cross Road people will be entertained by martial arts displays and workshops.


 Heartbroken Malala Yousafzai has issued a plea to Donald Trump to scrap his ban on refugees entering the United States as she accused him of turning his back on them.

The Pakistani activist and Nobel Peace prize winner spoke out amid deepening anger at Mr Trumps controversial policy after he issued a ban barring refugees from several Muslim countries coming into the country.

Refugees fleeing Syria have been banned indefinitely while restrictions have been put in place for nationals from Iraq, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen.

Iran has already indicated it will limit handing out visas to American tourists in retaliation over the crackdown.

Miss Yousafzai, who was shot in the head by the Pakistani Taliban in 2012 to stop her campaigning for girls' education, joined a growing chorus in condemning the order from Mr Trump.

Under fire: Many people have condemned Donald Trump's order to ban refugees from Muslim-majority countries into the United States / Alex Wong/Getty Images

She said: I am heartbroken that today President Trump is closing the door on children, mothers and fathers fleeing violence and war.

I am heartbroken that America is turning its back on a proud history of welcoming refugees and immigrants  the people who helped build your country, ready to work hard in exchange for a fair chance at a new life.

I am heartbroken that Syrian refugee children, who have suffered through six years of war by no fault of their own, are singled-out for discrimination.

In this time of uncertainty and unrest around the world, I ask President Trump not to turn his back on the worlds most defenseless children and families."

Mr Trump said the ban was needed to keep out "radical Islamic terrorists".

As he signed the order he said: "We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas.

"We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people."

In an interview with CBN News, Mr Trump said persecuted Christians would be given priority in applying for refugee status.

"We are going to help them," Mr Trump said. "They've been horribly treated."

The order was signed on Mr Trump's most robust day of national security and foreign policy at the start of his presidency.

As a candidate, Mr Trump called for a temporary ban on all Muslim immigration to the US. He later shifted his focus to putting in place "extreme vetting" procedures to screen people coming to the US from countries with terrorism ties.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations said it would challenge the constitutionality of the executive order.

"There is no evidence that refugees - the most thoroughly vetted of all people entering our nation - are a threat to national security," said Lena Masri, the group's national litigation director. "This is an order that is based on bigotry, not reality."
 I would try your local Chinese takeaway shop, but I just know it wont be as good as the one I go to, complained a friend a few weeks ago on a Friday night. The undying loyalty to your local takeaway rivals little else. But, what if your homemade Chinese meals could taste even better?

For decades, many of us, from complete newbies to kitchen wizards, have shied away from cooking Chinese food for fear of not ever being able to recreate some of our favourite meals.

However, with better access to authentic ingredients, proper equipment and plenty of hacks and tips from the best chefs in the business, cooking Chinese food is becoming easier and more accessible.

As the country with the largest population in the world at 1.4 billion people and sized at almost 10 million km squared, Chinese food is incredibly varied based on regions and traditions. Whilst it therefore can be daunting to know where to start, it also makes this cuisine an exciting and adventurous one with plenty of recipes for whatever your taste buds demand.

To prove just how simple it can be to cook chinese food at home, we tried out Kwoklyn Wans Sweet and Sour Chicken from his latest cookbook The Chinesese Takeaway.

#sweetandsour  original sound - EveningStandard @eveningstandard The chicken one is: Summer Cookbook Review: It's week 1 of our summer cookbook reviews where we'll be cooking recipes from different themed books every week. To kick start it's Chinese week and we're trying out Kwoklyn Wan's Sweet and Sour Chicken from his Chinese Takeout Cookbook  #chinesecooking

So whether youve never cooked Chinese food before (and rely on your local takeaway for a chow mein) or youre a culinary master in the cuisine, weve rounded up eight of the best Chinese cookbooks on the market.
I read recently that the Girl Scout organization will celebrate 100 years of selling Girl Scout Cookies. It reminded me it was 49 years ago this year that I became the leader of two Girl Scout troops in Owasco village.

Pictures shown with this column are of the Brownie Troop No. 473 fly up ceremony held on May 10, 1968, in our backyard high on Martin Road. The Brownie, Junior and Cadette Girl Scout troops were sponsored by the Owasco Reformed Church. The Brownie leaders were JoAnne Mathews (Andrew) assisted by Miss Paula Defendorf. Merle La Fever (Edward) and I became the leaders of the newly formed junior troop. Barbara Hamilton (Burton) and I were the Cadette leaders.

The tradition of a Brownie fly up ceremony in Scouting is called a bridging ceremony. Each little Brownie Scout would cross over the bridge to become a Junior Scout. We needed a bridge, so my husband, Milo, built one. Bless him, he was so good that way. He could build anything. It was a beautiful spring day; the mothers came with their lawn chairs. They sat in the shade of our backyard and witnessed the ceremony, enjoying the expansive, sweeping view overlooking the spring green farmland and sloping hills of Owasco.

As I look at the pictures, I realize the girls are now in their 50s, some even grandmothers. But what amazed me the most was to see how the trees have grown. The little Colorado blue spruce from Hoadleys Nursery in Owasco is now over 30 feet high. The whip of the sugar maple next to the bridge is even larger. The leaves turn a glorious orange in the fall. I cherish those Brownie fly up trees; the memories are still sweet.

They are a reminder of special times: of the many Girl Scout meetings, making crafts, tent camping at Dr. Hartnetts land in Moravia and at the Girl Scout lodge on Owasco Lake, and selling Girl Scout Cookies! I am still in contact with many of the girls. We often talk of the trip we took to Albany by train. We used part of our Girl Scout Cookie profit to finance the trip. The mothers came, too, as chaperones. We almost filled a railroad car. Another memory is after visiting the Capitol district, our group standing together in the choir loft of the First Reformed Church of Albany singing, How Great Thou Art." The church organist played the huge organ in that historic building. It was years later, on researching the Auchampaugh family name, that I learned Milos ancestors were members over many generations of that very same church in the early 1700s.

Brownie Troop No. 461 members (later Junior Girl Scout Troop No. 473): Lynn Bevier, Diana Cuykendall, DeNece Swan, Renee Briggs, Laurie Rosecrans and Genevieve Simmonds. Also: Ann Albring, Lynne Auchampaugh, Karen Brokaw, Kathy Fuller, Sherry Mathews, Pat Reilley, Darlene Taylor, Carol Webster and Georgia Young.

The Cadette Girl Scouts were: Betty Cuykendall, Pat Fessler, Joyce Hamilton, Virginia and Anathea Long, Dawn, Roxanne and Rosalind La Fever, Marilyn Schillawski, Sharon Wayne, Claudia Wellauer, Debbie Main, Amy Brokaw, Lynn Deacy and Lisa Vannais.
Its out of the frying pan  or small skillet  and into the fire for N.C. Sen. Joyce Krawiec as boxes of lard were delivered to her Raleigh office and Kernersville home on Thursday.

Krawiec, a Republican who represents Forsyth and Yadkin counties, tweeted Monday night: Message to crazies @Womens March  If brains were lard, you couldnt grease a small skillet. You know who you are.

By Thursday morning, at least 10 boxes of lard had been sent to Krawiecs office in Raleigh, according to the Raleigh News & Observer. Many more packages could arrive today thanks to overnight delivery, according to posts on social media.

Winston-Salem resident Chloe Mylet sent Krawiec a 4-pound tub of lard.

Mylet, who attended the Womens March in Washington D.C., on Saturday, also started a Go Fund Me page to raise money to help people send lard to Krawiec.

We want to send her a message that just because you dont agree with someone doesnt mean theyre brainless, Mylet said. Personally, I hope she donates the lard to a food shelter and that she takes away that everything on the Internet is permanent and not to judge others.

Several Amazon users commented on different lard products that they had purchased for the senator, including a 64 ounce container of Armour Lard that sells for $16.

One user, ZimZimZimmer, wrote: I just sent four pounds to (Krawiecs) Senate Office in Raleigh and couldnt be more delighted with my purchase! Highly recommend!!!!

A representative for the senator said Thursday that Krawiec would not be commenting on the lard protest.

Krawiecs controversial tweet was deleted less than 12 hours after it was posted and Krawiec issued a series of apologies Tuesday, saying she was referring only to marchers who acted inappropriately.

Charlotte resident Mickie Hall said she knew of many women who were sending lard to the Krawiecs office, but hadnt sent any herself.

I understand it. A lot of the women feel thats the only way to make a statement, Hall said. Personally, I think it would be more productive if we could sit down and talk with her.

Hall, a senior clinical research associate, was one of hundreds of thousands who attended the Womens March. She said she was offended by the tweet.

It was an amazing group  doctors, lawyers, nurses, engineers, moms, grandmothers, she said. No crazies, all intelligent women capable of bringing home the bacon and frying it up in a pan.

Krawiec is not the only lawmaker in hot water over march tweets.

A Nebraska state lawmaker, Republican Sen. Bill Kintner, resigned Wednesday after a controversial social media post suggesting Womens March protesters were too ugly to be groped.

North Carolinas newly elected Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey also faced outrage after retweeting a Womens March meme: In one day, Trump got more fat women out walking than Michelle Obama did in 8 years. Causey later apologized.

It was unclear Thursday how many packages of lard Krawiec had received amid the backlash of her comment.

Rebekah Radisch of Kernersville offered a different take: Instead of sending lard to Krawiec, send margarine or butter to Crisis Control Ministries in Krawiecs name, in the vein of a protest last year aimed at Vice President Mike Pence.

Last year, activists made more than the 82,000 contributions to Planned Parenthood in Pences name after he called for ending federal funding for the organization and imposed restrictions on abortions while governor of Indiana.

Such donations send a message while helping the community, said Radisch, who made a $50 donation to Crisis Control.

Join me in sending (Crisis Control) something ... and lets do it in spite of the self-loathing senator from Kernersville, Radisch said. Lets turn her patronizing insult into something good.
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Europarlamentarii Monica Macovei si Cristian Preda le-au trimis tuturor parlamentarilor mesaje prin care sustin ca in Romania statul de drept e pus in pericol de PSD si de Avocatul Poporului. Ei acuza ca fiind tendentioase si rauvoitoare informarile facute de socialistii romani in Parlamentul European si ca alta este adevarata fata a ceea ce se intampla in Romania.

Vezi si: Presedintele CEDO recomanda Guvernului Romaniei sa faca si gratieri/ VIDEO

Vezi si: Expert in Drept: 'Abuzul in serviciu ar trebui abrogat cu totul'. Pozitia Comisiei de la Venetia

Monica Macovei si Cristian Preda sustin ca prin doua ordonante de urgenta care se pregatesc de catre guvernul socialist se distrug toate progresele facute de Romania in ce priveste statul de drept ti ca in acest sens mii de oameni la temperaturi scazute au iesit in strada sa protesteze. Identifica si persoanele vinovate: Liviu Dragnea, presedintele PSD si Victor Ciorbea, Avocatul Poporului. Ea ataseaza e-mail-ului trimis si o varianta in engleza a OUG-urilor cu Gratiere si modificarile la Codul Penal, o scrisoare din partea Forumului Judecatorilor, dar si o scrisoare adresata ministrului Justitiei de ong-uri despre care se spune ca ar fi finantate de George Soros:

Va prezentam documentatia asa cum a fost ea transmisa europarlamentarilor:

Subject: Imminent threats to anticorruption and rule of law in Romania

Dear colleagues,

Considering the misleading information circulated by MEP Viorica Dancila today on the threats to anticorruption and rule of law in Romania, I send you this message, which does not contain opinions, but facts and reactions coming from Romanian NGOs, judges, journalists and public from Romania, who took to the streets, tens of thousands of them, sharing the same concerns. My colleague, Crisitan Preda (EPP) already shared some of this information with you, this morning.

You may have heard that on Jan 18 the new cabinet of Romania came out of the blue with a set of emergency ordinances (executive orders) enacting a broad pardon for various crimes and putting an end to all ongoing criminal investigations and court procedures.

The emergency ordinances were initiated by PSD (The Social Democrat Party, part of the S&D group in the European Parliament). They started to prepare the ground for this coup against justice and anticorruption immediately after forming the new government, in January 2017. PSD is led by Liviu Dragnea, who had been convicted by a final court judgement, in April 2016, for electoral fraud; he received a suspended sentence of 2 years in prison. PSDs convicted president wanted to be prime minister but a 2001 law, prohibiting individuals who are convicted to hold governmental positions, stopped him. What followed? On the 5th of January 2017, the Romanian Ombudsman, Victor Ciorbea, challenged the constitutionality of this legal prohibition. His claim is pending.

The topic of the emergency ordinances was never discussed during the electoral campaign and did not appear on any major party's program. The move was allegedly aimed at "easing the overcrowding of jails", but in fact had little to do with this. Rather, it was meant to get top politicians of the hook after ten years of sustained anti-corruption efforts.

The reaction was swift: president Johannis showed up unannounced in the cabinet meeting and put a temporary stop to the initiative, while tens of thousands of people in Bucharest and other cities protested out in the street in spite of the freezing temperatures.

The acts were put up for public consultation for 10 days, which was not the initial intention of the government and president Iohannis called on a referendum on the topic. However, with a solid majority in Parliament which is determined to stop anti-corruption, get arrested politicians out of jail and change laws so that current criminal investigations be annulled, the story is far from over. We are bracing for a long and bitter fight.

Attached you have the letters of a number of Romanian think tanks and The Romanian Judges Forum Association which explain what the draft executive orders would have changed; and the long list of crimes to which the proposed collective pardon would apply. Also here some pictures from the street protests in Bucharest during the nights of Jan 18 and January 22:

http://www.hotnews.ro/stiri-esential-21549403-live-text-nou-protest-impotriva-amnistiei-gratierii-duminica-capitala.htm

I am looking forward to hearing from you and kindly asking you to prioritize this request, given the urgency of the matter. I have information that new attempts of passing the emergency ordinances will come tomorrow or on Thursday.

Kind regards,

Monica Macovei

+

Subject: Situation politique en Roumanie / Political situation in Romania

Chers collegues,

Je vous envoie la lettre ouverte ecrite par le plus influent ONG roumain sur les recentes evolutions politiques dans le pays.

Avec mes meilleures sentiments,

C.Preda

Membre PPE

/

Dear colleagues,

Please read an open letter written by the most important Romanian NGO about the recent political evolution of the country.

Best regards,

C.Preda

EPP Member

_______

_____

PLUS - Informarea privind continutul OUG-urilor, Scrisoarea Forumului Judecatorilor din Romania si scrisoarea ong-urilor:

According to the draft of the emergency ordinance available on the website of the Ministry of Justice today, 19th of January 2017, pardon is applicable for the following offences:

A. Criminal Code

TITLE IV - Obstruction of justice

ART. 266

Failure to report

(1) The act of the individual who, becoming aware of the commission of an offense

against human life or which resulted in the death of an individual, as provided by

criminal law, does not notify the authorities immediately, shall be punishable by no less

than 6 months and no more than 2 years of imprisonment or by a fine.

(2) Failure to report shall not be punishable when committed by a family member.

(3) A person who, before the commencement of criminal action against an individual for

the commission of the offense that was not reported, notifies the relevant authorities

concerning such offense or who, even after commencement of the criminal action, has

facilitated the criminal action against the perpetrator or the other persons involved in the commission of the offense, shall not be punishable.

ART. 267

Omission to notify the judicial bodies

(1) The act of a public servant who, becoming aware of the commission of an offense

criminalized by law in connection with the service where they work, omits to

immediately notify the criminal investigation body, shall be punishable by no less than 3

months and no more than 3 years of imprisonment or by a fine.

(2) If the act is committed with basic intent, the penalty shall consist of no less than 3

months and no more than 1 years of imprisonment or a fine

ART. 268

Misleading the judicial bodies

(1) The criminal notification, by report or complaint, in relation to the existence of an act

provided for in criminal law or in relation to the commission of such an act by a certain

person, while being aware of the fact that it is not real, shall be punishable by no less

than 6 months and no more than 3 years of imprisonment or by a fine.

(2) The production or fabrication of false evidence, in order to prove the existence of an

act stipulated by criminal law or in relation to the commission of such an act by a certain

person, shall be punishable by no less than 1 and no more than 5 years of imprisonment.

(3) The individual who has misled the judicial bodies shall not be punishable if they

declare, before the detainment, arrest or commencement of the criminal action against

the individual in relation to whom the report or complaint has been lodged or the

evidence has been brought, that the report, complaint or evidence is not real.

ART. 269

Aiding and abetting a perpetrator

(1) The act of aiding and abetting a perpetrator, for the purposes of preventing or

hindering the investigation in a criminal case, criminal liability, serving a sentence or a

custodial sentence shall be punishable by no less than 1 and no more than 5 years of

imprisonment or by a fine.

(2) The penalty for the individual who has aided and abetted the perpetrator may not

exceed the penalty provided by the law for the offense committed by the perpetrator.

3) Aiding and abetting committed by a family member shall not be punishable.

ART. 270

Receipt and sale of stolen goods

(1) Whoever receives, acquires or converts an asset, or facilitates disposal thereof,

knowing or foreseeing, following concrete circumstances, that the asset originates from

the commission of an act stipulated by criminal law, even without awareness of its

nature, shall be punishable by no less than 1 and no more than 5 years of imprisonment

or by a fine.

(2) The penalty for the individual engaging in the receipt and sale cannot exceed the

penalty provided by the law for the offense committed by the perpetrator.

3) When this offense is committed by a family member it shall not be punishable.

ART. 271

Obstruction of justice

(1) The individual who, being warned of the consequences of their actions:

a) unlawfully prevents the criminal prosecution body or the court to conduct a

procedural act as under the law;

b) refuses to provide the criminal prosecution body, the court or the bankruptcy

judge, in whole or in part, any data, information, documents or assets they hold and

which have been explicitly requested, under the law, in order to settle a case, shall be

punishable by no less than 3 months and no more than 1 year of imprisonment or by

a fine.

(2) Par. (1) does not apply to an individual who is prosecuted or on trial for offenses that

are the subject of the criminal trial.





ART. 272

Tampering with testimony

(1) The attempt to determine, or determining an individual, regardless of their capacity,

by coercion, corruption, or by another act of intimidation, committed on said individual

or on one of their family members, to refrain from notifying the criminal investigation

authorities, to refrain from giving statements, to withdraw their statements, to give false

statements or to refrain from submitting evidence in a criminal or civil case or in any

other judicial proceedings, shall be punishable by no less than 1 and no more than 5 years of imprisonment. If the intimidation or corruption act is in itself an offense, the rules for multiple offenses shall apply.

(2) A material settlement between the perpetrator and the victim, occurring in the case of offenses for which criminal action is to be initiated based on prior complaint by the

victim or for which reconciliation occurs, does not constitute an offense.





ART. 273

False testimony

(1) The act of a witness who, in a criminal, civil or other proceeding in which witnesses

are heard, gives false statements, or does not tell everything they know regarding the

essential acts or circumstances in relation to which they are heard, shall be punishable by no less than 6 months and no more than 3 years of imprisonment or by a fine.

(2) The false testimony committed:

a) by a witness whose identity is protected or who is included in the witness

protection program;

b) an investigator working undercover;

c) a person who prepares an expert report or an interpreter;

d) in relation to an offense for which the law provides life imprisonment or a term of

imprisonment of 10 years or more shall be punishable by no less than 1 and no more than 5 years of imprisonment.

(3) The witness shall not be punishable if they withdraw their testimony, in criminal

cases, before the defendants detention or arrest, or before the commencement of the criminal action or in other cases before a decision or another solution is given, following

the false testimony given.





ART. 274

Revenge for cooperation with the judicial authorities

The commission of an offense against an individual or a family member thereof, for

having notified the criminal investigation authorities, for having given statements or for

having given evidence in a criminal, civil or other proceeding of the ones set out in Art.

273 shall be punished as provided by the law for these offenses, and the special limits of

the penalty shall be increased by one-third.





ART. 275

Stealing or destroying evidence or documents

(1) The act of stealing, destroying, withholding, concealing or altering material evidence

or documents, for the purposes of preventing the judicial authorities to find out the truth in a judicial proceeding shall be punishable by no less than 6 months and no more than 5 years of imprisonment.

(2) The same penalty is applicable to the act of preventing, in any way, a document

necessary for the solution of a case, issued by a judicial body or directed to it, from

reaching its recipient.





ART. 276

Placing pressure on justice

The act of an individual who, during an ongoing legal proceeding, makes false public

statements regarding the commission, by the judge or by the criminal investigation

authorities, of an offense or of a serious disciplinary violation related to the investigation

of the cause in question, in order to influence or intimidate them, shall be punishable by

no less than 3 months and no more than 1 year of imprisonment or by a fine.





ART. 277

Undermining justice

(1) Unlawful revealing of confidential information regarding the date, time, place,

manner or means by which evidence is to be administered, by a magistrate or by another

public servant who has become aware thereof by virtue of their office, if such action can

hinder or obstruct the criminal prosecution, shall be punishable by no less than 3 months

and no more than 2 years of imprisonment or by a fine.

(2) Unlawful disclosure of evidence or official documents in a criminal case, before

taking a decision not to prosecute or before the return of a final ruling in the matter, by a public servant who has become aware thereof by virtue of their office, shall be punishable by no less than 1 month and no more than 1 year of imprisonment or by a

fine.

(3) Unlawful disclosure of confidential information in a criminal case, by a witness,

expert or interpreter, when a prohibition to do so is set out in the criminal procedure law, shall be punishable by no less than 1 month and no more than 1 year of imprisonment or by a fine.

(4) The act by which obviously illegal acts or activities, committed by the authorities in a

criminal case, are disclosed or revealed, does not constitute an offense.





ART. 278

Violation of the solemnity of the hearing

The use of offensive or obscene words or gestures, which would disrupt the court, by a

person participating in or attending a proceeding that takes place in court, shall be

punishable by no less than 1 and no more than 3 months of imprisonment or by a fine.

ART. 287

Failure to enforce court orders

(1) The failure to enforce court orders, committed:

a) by resisting the enforcement of a court decision, by resisting the actions of the

authority in charge of said enforcement;

b) by the refusal of the authority in charge of the enforcement to enforce a court

order, by means of which it must carry out a certain act;

c) by the refusal to support the authority in charge of the enforcement in

implementing the court order, by individuals who are under this obligation by law;

d) by failure to enforce a court order reinstating an employee;

e) by failure to enforce the court order regarding the payment of wages within 15

days of the date when the enforcement request was submitted by the interested party

to the employer;

f) by failure to enforce court orders on establishing, paying, indexing and recalculating pensions;

g) preventing an individual from using, in whole or in part, a house or part of a house

or building held based on a court order, committed by the person against whom the

court order was returned, shall be punishable by no less than 3 months and no more

than 2 years of imprisonment or by fine.

(2) In the case of the acts listed under lett. d) through g), criminal action shall be initiated based on a prior complaint filed by the victim.





ART. 288

Failure to serve criminal penalties

(1) The act of evading the service of or the failure to serve, according to the legal

stipulations, an ancillary or additional sentence or a security measure provided in Art.

108 lett. b) and c), by an individual against whom such penalties were ordered, shall be

punishable by no less than 3 months and no more than 2 years of imprisonment or by a

fine, unless such act is a more serious offense.

(2) Evading the service of a custodial educational sentence by unlawfully leaving the

education or detention centre or by the failure to report to their place of detention after

the expiry of the period of time during which they were legally at large, shall be

punishable by no less than 3 months and no more than 1 year of imprisonment or by a

fine.

(3) The failure to serve, by a trustee or administrator, of the ancillary sentences returned

against a legal entity as listed in Art. 141 shall be punishable by a fine.

TITLE V - Corruption and offenses in public position

CHAPTER I - Corruption

ART. 293

Acts committed by members of the courts of arbiters or in connection thereto

The stipulations under Article 289 and Article 290 shall apply accordingly also to

persons who, based on an arbitration agreement, are called upon to issue a ruling with

respect to a case entrusted to them for settlement by the parties to that agreement,

irrespective whether the arbitration proceedings are carried out based on the Romanian

law or based on another law.

ART. 294

Acts committed by foreign officials or related to them

The stipulations of this Chapter shall apply to the following persons, unless the

international agreements that Romania is party to provide otherwise:

a) officials or persons who carry out their activity based on a labor agreement or

other persons with similar duties in an international public organization that Romania

is party to;

b) members of parliamentary assemblies of international organizations that Romania

is party to;

c) officials or persons who carry out their activities based on a labor agreement or

other persons with similar duties within the European Union;

d) persons who exercise judicial functions within the international courts whose

jurisdiction is accepted by Romania, as well as officials working for the registrars

office of such courts;

e) officials of a foreign state;

f) members of parliamentary or administrative assemblies of a foreign state;

g) jurors within foreign courts.

CHAPTER II - Offenses in public position





ART. 295

Embezzlement

1) Acceptance, use or traffic of money, valuables or any other assets managed or

administrated by a public servant, on their or on another persons behalf, shall be

punishable by no less than 2 and no more than 7 years of imprisonment and the ban from exercising the right of holding public office.

(2) The attempt thereof shall be punishable.

ART. 296

Abusive conduct

(1) Use of offensive language toward another person by the one carrying out professional duties shall be punishable by no less than one month and no more than 6 months of imprisonment, or by a fine.

(2) The threat, the assault or any other acts of violence committed in the conditions

provided under par. (1) shall be penalized by the punishment stipulated in the law for that crime, whereas the special limits shall be increased by one-third.

ART. 297

Abuse in office

(1) The action of the public servant who, while exercising their professional

responsibilities, fails to implement an act or implements it faultily, thus causing damage

or violating the legitimate rights or interests of a natural or a legal entity, shall be

punishable by no less than 2 and no more than 7 years of imprisonment and the ban from exercising the right to hold a public office.

(2) The same punishment applies to the action of a public servant who, while exercising

their professional responsibilities, limits the exercise of a right of a person or creates for

the latter a situation of inferiority on grounds of race, nationality, ethnic origin, language, religion, gender, sexual orientation, political membership, wealth, age, disability, chronic non-transmissible disease or HIV/AIDS infection.

ART. 298

Professional negligence

The culpable breach by a public official of a professional duty by failing to carrying it

out or by faultily carrying it out, if it results in damage or violation of the legitimate

rights or interests of a natural or legal entity shall be punishable by no less than 3 months and no more than 3 years of imprisonment, or by a fine.

ART. 299

Abuse of power for sexual gain

(1) The action of the public servant who, for the purpose of performing or not

performing, speeding up or delaying the performance of an act related to their

professional duties or for the purposes of performing an act contrary to such duties,

solicits or is awarded sexual favors by a person who has a direct or indirect vested

interest in that professional act shall be punishable by no less than 6 months and no more than 3 years of imprisonment and the ban from exercising the right to hold a public office or to practice the profession or the activity in the exercise of which the action was committed.

(2) The solicitation by or the award of sexual favors to a public servant who uses or takes

advantage of a situation of authority or power over the victim, arising from the office

held, shall be punishable by no less than 3 months and no more than 3 years of

imprisonment, or by a fine and the ban from exercising the right to hold public office or

to practice the profession or the activity in the exercise of which the action was committed.

ART. 300

Abuse of position

The conduct of the public servant who, while at work, performs an act that does not fall

under their duties, if such results in one of the consequences provided under Article 297, shall be punishable by no less than 1 and no more than 5 years of imprisonment, or by a fine.

ART. 301

Conflict of interests

(1) The conduct of the public servant who, while carrying out their professional duties,

committed an act or participated in making a decision that resulted, directly or indirectly, in a material gain for themselves, their spouses, for a relative or an affiliate, including those twice removed, or for another person with whom they were in business or labor relations for the past 5 years or from whom they had or have benefits of any nature, shall be punishable by no less than 1 and no more than 5 years of imprisonment and the ban from exercising the right to hold a public office.

(2) Par. (1) shall not apply to issuing, endorsing or adopting regulatory documents.





ART. 302

Violating the privacy of correspondence

(1) Opening, stealing, destroying or seizing, without any right, the correspondence

addressed to another person, as well as the unlawful revelation of the contents of such

correspondence, even when it was sent open or it was opened by mistake, shall be

punishable by no less than 3 months and no more than 1 year of imprisonment, or by a

fine.

(2) Unlawful wiretapping of phone or any electronic means of communication shall be

punishable by no less than 6 months and no more than 3 years of imprisonment.

(3) If the actions provided under par. (1) and par. (2) were committed by a public servant holding the legal obligation to observe professional secrecy and the confidentiality of information they are privy to, the punishment shall be no less than 1 year and no more than 5 years of imprisonment and deprivation of certain rights.

(4) The unlawful revealing, broadcasting, presenting or transmitting to another person or to the general public the contents of a wiretapped conversation or communication, even when the perpetrator became aware of it by mistake or by chance, shall be punishable by no less than 3 months and no more than 2 years of imprisonment, or by a fine.

(5) The following acts committed shall not be constitute offenses:

a) if the perpetrator catches a crime in the act or contributes to providing evidence as

to the commission of a crime;

b) if the perpetrator catches acts of public interest, with significance for the life of the

community, and whose revelation has public advantages much higher than the

damage caused to the victim.

(6) The unlawful possession or manufacturing of specific wiretapping or communicationrecording devices shall be punishable by no less than 3 months and no more than 3 years of imprisonment, or by a fine.

(7) In the case of the actions provided under par. (1), the criminal investigation shall be

launched based on the preliminary report by the victim.

ART. 303

Disclosure of information classified as state secret

(1) The unlawful disclosure of information classified as state secret by the person aware

thereof owing to their professional responsibilities, if it affects the interests of a legal

entity of those provided under Article 176, shall be punishable by no less than 2 and no

more than 7 years of imprisonment and the ban from exercising certain rights.

(2) The unlawful possession of a document, beyond ones professional responsibilities,

containing state-secret information, if likely to affect the activity of one of the legal

entities provided under Article 176, shall be punishable by no less than 3 months and no

more than 2 years of imprisonment, or by a fine.

(3) The person in possession of a document containing state-secret information, which is

likely to affect the activity of one of the legal entities provided under Article 176, shall

not be punishable if they surrender the document without delay to the issuing body or

institution.



ART. 304

Disclosure of information classified as service secret or not public

(1) The unlawful disclosure of information classified as service secret, or which is not for

the general public, by the person aware thereof owing to their professional

responsibilities, if it affects the interests or the activity of a person, shall be punishable by no less than 3 months and no more than 3 years of imprisonment, or by a fine.

(2) The unlawful disclosure of information classified as service secret, or which is not for

the general public, by the person aware thereof shall be punishable by no less than 1

month and no more than 1 year, or by a fine.

(3) If, as a result of the action provided under par. (1) and par. (2), a crime was

committed against an undercover investigator, a protected witness or a person included in the Witness Protection Program, the punishment shall be no less than 2 and no more than 7 years of imprisonment and if a crime against life was committed with direct intent, shall be punishable by no less than 5 and no more than 12 years of imprisonment.



ART. 305

Negligence in storing information

(1) The negligence resulting in the destruction, alteration, loss or theft of a document

containing state-secret information, as well as the negligence resulting in another

persons becoming aware of such information shall be punishable by no less than 3

months and no more than 1 year of imprisonment, or by a fine.

(2) The same punishment shall be applied to the actions under Article 303 par. (1) and

Article 304, in case they were committed with basic intent.

ART. 306

Illegal monetary gain

(1) Use or submission of false, inaccurate or incomplete documents or data, to receive

the approvals or the guarantees required for the award of funding obtained or guaranteed from public funds, if it results in the unjust award of such funds, shall be punishable by no less than 2 and no more than 7 years of imprisonment.

(2) The attempt thereof shall be punishable.

ART. 307

Diversion of funds

(1) Diversion from their original destination of money or material resources allocated to

a public authority or public institution, without observing the legal stipulations shall be

punishable by no less than 1 year and no more than 5 years of imprisonment.

(2) The same punishment shall apply to diversion, without observing the legal

stipulations, of the destination of funds resulting from the funding obtained or guaranteed from public funds.

(3) The attempt thereof shall be punishable.

ART. 309

Actions that resulted in extremely severe consequences

If the actions provided under Article 295, Article 297, Article 298, Article 300, Article

303, Article 304, Article 306 or Article 307 caused extremely severe consequences, the

special limits of the punishment stipulated in the law shall increase by one-half.

TITLE IX - Election offenses





ART. 385

Preventing the exercise of electoral rights

(1) Preventing, by any means, the free exercise of the right to elect or be elected shall be punishable by no less than 6 months and no more than 3 years of imprisonment.

(2) An attack, by any means, on the polling station shall be punishable by no less than 2

and no more than 7 years of imprisonment and a ban on the exercise of certain rights.

ART. 386

Corruption of voters

(1) The act of offering or giving money or other benefits in order to determine a voter to

vote or not to vote for a certain list of candidates or for an independent candidate shall be punishable by no less than 6 months and no more than 3 years of imprisonment and a ban on the exercise of certain rights.

(2) The goods of symbolic value, bearing the insignia of a political party, are not

included in the category of goods mentioned in par. (1).

ART. 387

Voting fraud

(1) The act committed by the individual who votes:

a) without having the right;

b) two or more times;

c) by introducing in the box more ballots than allowed;

shall be punishable by no less than 6 months and no more than 3 years of imprisonment

or by a fine and a ban on the exercise of certain rights.

(2) The same penalty shall apply to the use of a voter card or identity document that are

counterfeit, or to the use of counterfeit ballots.

ART. 388

Electronic vote fraud

The act of printing and using false access data, fraudulent access to the electronic voting

system or falsification, by any means, of electronic vote ballots shall be punishable by no

less than 1 and no more than 5 years of imprisonment.

ART. 389

Violation of voting secrecy

(1) The violation, by any means, of the voting secrecy shall be punished by a fine (2) If the act was committed by a member of the electoral bureau of the polling section, it

shall be punishable by no less than 6 months and no more than 3 years of imprisonment

and a ban on the exercise of certain rights.





ART. 390

Failure to observe the rules governing ballot boxes

(1) The act of opening a ballot box before the time established for the closure of elections shall be punishable by no less than 1 and no more than 3 years of imprisonment or by a fine and a ban on the exercise of certain rights.

(2) Entrusting the special ballot box to individuals other than members of the electoral

bureau of the polling station, or its transportation by other individuals or in conditions

different from those provided by law shall be punishable by no less than 3 months and no more than 2 years of imprisonment or by a fine and a ban on the exercise of certain

rights.





ART. 391

Counterfeiting documents and voting records

(1) Falsification by any means of electoral documents from polling stations shall be

punishable by no less than 1 and no more than 5 years of imprisonment and a ban on the

exercise of certain rights.

(2) The same penalty shall apply to the enrolment on the copy of the permanent voting

list or on the supplementary voting list of individuals who do not belong on such list.

(3) The introduction in use, or the use of flawed computer software that alters the records

or the counting of results from the polling stations or that determines the illegal

distribution of seats shall be punishable by no less than 2 and no more than 7 years of

imprisonment and a ban on the exercise of certain rights.

(4) The same penalty shall apply to the input of data, information or procedures that lead

to alterations in the national computer system required to establish the election results.





ART. 392

Offenses committed in relation to a referendum

The stipulations of Art. 385 - 391 shall apply accordingly in the case of offenses

committed in relation to a referendum

ART. 393

Punishing the attempt

The attempt to commit the offenses set out in Art. 385 and Art. 387 - 391 shall be

punishable.

B. LAW No. 78/2000 on preventing, discovering and sanctioning corruption offences

Art. 7 - (1) The offence of taking bribe or traffic of influence committed by a person who:

a) exercises a position of public dignity;

b) is a judge or a prosecutor;

c) is a criminal investigation body or is in charge with ascertaining or sanctioning contraventions;

d) is one of the persons provided by article 293 of the Criminal Code

is punished according to art. 289 or 291 of the Criminal Code, whose limits are increased by a third.

Section 3 - Offences assimilated to those of corruption



Art. 10 - The following offences shall be punished with imprisonment from 3 to 10 years and the interdiction of certain rights, if committed for the purpose of obtaining money, goods or other undue advantages for himself/herself, or for other person:

a) establishing, deliberately, a diminished value, compared to the real market value, of the goods belonging to the economic agents to which the state or an authority of the local public administration is a shareholder, committed during the privatization process, the enforcing of a court decision, the judicial reorganization or liquidation or on the occasion of a commercial transaction or when selling the goods belonging to public authorities or public institutions, or during the enforcement of the court decision, committed by those persons holding management, leading or administrative tasks or by the persons with tasks of enforcing court decisions, of judicial reorganization or of liquidation;

b) granting subsidies by infringing the law or not supervising, according to the law, the contracted destinations of the subsidies;

c) using subsidies for other purposes than those they had been granted for, as well as using the credits guaranteed from public funds or which are to be reimbursed from the public funds, for other purposes.



Art. 11 - (1) The offence of a person who has the obligation to supervise, to control, to reorganize or to liquidate a private economic agent, and carries out any task, mediates or facilitates for it the carrying on of certain commercial or financial operations or participates with capital to such economic agent, if the deed is of such nature as to bring him/her directly or indirectly undue advantages, then, it is an offence and it shall be punished with imprisonment from 1 to 5 years and the interdiction of certain rights.

(2) If the offence stipulated in paragraph (1) has been committed within a period of 5 years from the cessation of the task, it shall be punished with imprisonment from 6 months to 3 years or a fine.



Art. 12 - The following offence shall be punished with imprisonment from 1 to 5 years, if committed for the purpose of obtaining for himself/herself or for other person, money, goods or other undue advantages:

a) performing financial operations as trade activities, incompatible with the position, duty or task which is carried out by a person or contracting financial transactions using the information obtained by virtue of the position, duty or task;

b) using, in any way, directly or indirectly, the information that is not meant for publicity or allowing the access of unauthorized persons to this information.



Art. 13 - The offence of the person who has a leadership position in a party or in a political formation, in a trade union or in an employer's organization or a foundation who uses his/her influence or authority for the purpose of obtaining for himself/herself or for somebody else money, goods or other undue advantages, shall be punished with imprisonment from 1 to 5 years.



Art 131*)  Regarding the offence of blackmail provided by art. 207 of the Criminal Code, if it involves one of the persons provided by art. 1, the special limits of the punishments are increased by a third.



Art 132*) - Regarding the offences of abuse of office or usurping the position, if the civil servant obtained for himself/herself or for somebody else money, goods or other undue advantages, the special limits of the punishments are increased by a third..

Art. 15 - The attempt to commit the offences provided by the present section shall be punished.



Art. 16 - If the offences provided by the present section constitute more severe offences, according to the Criminal Code or to other special laws, these are punished under the terms and with the sanctions established by those laws.

Law 656/2002 on the prevention and sanctioning of money laundering and on setting up of certain measures for the prevention and combating terrorism financing

Art. 31 (1) The non-observance of the obligations provided for in the Art. 25 represents an offence and it is punished with prison from 6 months to 3 years or with a fine, if the deed does not represent a more serious offence.

(2) If the deed provided in para (1) is intentionally committed, the punishment is from 3 months to 2 years or a fine.

[Art. 25 - (1) The personnel of the Office must not disseminate the information received during the activity other than under the conditions of the law. This obligation is also valid after the cessation of the function within the Office, for a five-years period.

(2) The persons referred to in the Art. 10 and their employees must not transmit, except as provided by the law, the information related to money laundering and terrorism financing and, must not warn the customers about the notification sent to the Office.

(3) Using the received information in personal interest by the employees of the Office and of the persons provided for in the Art. 10, both during the activity and after ceasing it, is forbidden.

(4) The following deeds performed while exercising job attributions shall not be deemed as breaches of the obligation provided for in para (2):

a) providing information to competent authorities referred to in article 24 and providing information in the situations deliberately provided by the law;

b) providing information between credit and financial institutions from European Unions Member States or European Economic Area or from third states, that belong to the same group and apply customer due diligence and record keeping procedures equivalent with those provided for by the present Law and are supervised for their application in a manner similar with the one regulated by the present law;

c) providing information between persons referred to in article 10 (e) and (f), from European Unions Member States or European Economic Area, or from third states which impose equivalent requirements, similar to those provided for by the present Law, persons that carry on their professional activity within the framework of the same legal entity or the same structure in which the shareholders, management or compliance control are in common.

d) providing information between the persons referred to in article 10 (a), (b), (e) and (f), situated in European Unions Member States or European Economic Area, or from third states which impose equivalent requirements, similar to those provided for by the present Law, in the situations related to the same client and same transaction carried out through two or more of the above mentioned persons, provided that these persons are within the same professional category and are subject to equivalent requirements regarding professional secrecy and the protection of personal data;

(5) When the European Commission adopts a decision stating that a third state do not fulfill the requirements provided for by the para (4) (b) (c) and (d), the persons referred to in article 10 and their employees are obliged not to transmit to this state or to institutions or persons from this state, the information held related to money laundering and terrorism financing.

(6) It is not deemed as a breach of the obligations provided for in para 2, the deed of the persons referred to in article 10 (e) and (f) which, according with the provisions of their statute, tries to prevent a client from engaging in criminal activity.]

D. Law 241/2005 regarding tax evasion ,art. 4, art. 8 and art. 9

______

Bucharest, Jan 20th 2017

Civil society vs. Minister Iordache on the case of emergency ordinances

The signatory organizations consider unacceptable that normative acts of such importance as those regarding collective pardons for criminal sentences or amending the Criminal Codes are secretly drafted and included on the Governments agenda without effective consultation of the Romanian society. There was no opportunity for the civil society, representatives of the judiciary system and other interested parties to formulate a point of view, or indeed to know what is going on. Such practices throw Romania back to the early, authoritarian stages of the post-Communist transition and are incompatible with the normal practice in EU member states.

Granting collective pardon through an emergency ordinance (EO) is unprecedented in Romanias post communist history. Previously, this happened only by acts of Parliament, after proper debates in plenum which allowed the majority and the opposition to present arguments pro and against, as is the normal practice in democracies.

The statements of mr Iordache, Minister of Justice, regarding the impact of the measure  that it would affect 2300-2500 persons currently incarcerated in the Romanian penitentiary system, i.e. less than 10% of the total  appear disingenuous: this will not solve the problem of overcrowding. Rather, the measure is more likely to benefit people convicted for serious offences such as corruption-related crimes, abuse in office, crimes directed against the judicial process and electoral crimes.

Reading the draft EOs, published on the website of MoJ only after the Government meeting of Jan 18th, it is clear that certain crimes are excluded from the general pardon measure provided by art. 1 of the EO. However, these exceptions do not include serious crimes as those mentioned above (see the Annex for the full list). This means that individuals convicted to 5 years of prison or less will be pardoned as a result. Suspended sentences and fines are mentioned expressis verbis for pardoning, which raise another question mark over the declared goals: obviously such sanctions have nothing to do with the overcrowding of jails, but a lot to do with the personal cases of some top politicians.

There is also a partial pardoning (sentences are cut in half), but with no specifics about the nature of the crime committed; upon release the convicts are not subject to the obligation to cover the damages within one year, as in the case of the absolute pardon mentioned before. All convicts, no matter what the crime was, would benefit from this partial pardon if they are over 60 years of age, or if they are suffering from a disease in a terminal phase, or if they have children under 5 years of age or if they are pregnant.

With respect to the EO amending the Criminal Codes, the stated goal is to implement recent Constitutional Courts jurisprudence. This looks more like a pretext because (i) not all relevant decisions are reflected in the proposed amendments, and (ii) the problematic amendments are in no way related to the jurisprudence of the Constitutional Court. For example, making investigations for abuse in office dependent on the submission of a complaint would practically make prosecutions for abuse in office impossible where the victim is the state. When the suspects are leaders of public institutions, which happens often, it is very unlikely that they will submit complaints against themselves. What is more, a threshold of 200.000 RON (approx. 50.000 EURO) operates as de facto decriminalization of offences that fall under this threshold.

Reducing the penalty for abuse in office from 2-7 years and the interdiction to exercise the right to occupy a public position (as the law provides now), to 6 months-3 years or a fine (as proposed by the emergency ordinance), would proportionally diminish the statute of limitation period and risk closing some of the pending cases. In conclusion, the amendments proposed regarding the offence of abuse in office leave it largely empty of meaning and block investigations for crimes against the state.

The offence of negligence in office is decriminalized without any explanation or reference to jurisprudence.

The conflict of interests is made ineffective by making it conditional upon the undue nature of the benefits realized. Until now this provision was meant to sanction the situation when a public official obtained, by using their public position, benefits for themselves or close associates. This is not the first time when we witness attempts to decriminalize the conflict of interests by introducing the words undue benefits. Decision no. 2/2014 of the Constitutional Court says that this is unconstitutional. Coming back with the same amendments, once declared unconstitutional, is in itself unconstitutional.

In the Criminal Procedure Code, restricting the validity of effective regret[1] to only six months after the crime was committed is unreasonable. People will no longer report crimes to the investigators and the efficiency of criminal investigations will be reduced. If the intention is to introduce time limits, the international practice should serve as a guide; these matters were analysed in the GRECO reports.

We demand the Ministry of Justice to stop the current fast track procedure for these amendments, make public the existing data on overcrowding in Romanian jails and engage the social actors in a rational debate to search for viable solutions together.

ExpertForum (EFOR)

Institutul pentru Politici Publice (IPP)

Funky Citizens

Centrul Roman de Politici Europene (CRPE)

Freedom House-Romania

Grupul pentru Dialog Social (GDS)

[1] Effective regret allows prosecutors to waive criminal responsibility for individuals who took part in criminal conduct if they cooperate with the investigators.
DETROIT  General Motors said Friday that it was boosting production capacity for its new Chevrolet Volt because of strong public interest in the electric car, which goes on sale this year.

GM will now have a production capacity of 45,000 vehicles in 2012, up from previous plans for 30,000 vehicles.

The automaker made the announcement as President Barack Obama toured the Volt production facility in Detroit. The federal government sank $50 billion into GM as part of the broader rescue of the auto industry, giving taxpayers a majority stake in the nation's largest auto company.

The Volt, priced at $41,000, can go 340 miles on a single battery charge, according to GM. The vehicle is powered purely by the battery in the first 40 miles, and then uses a small tank of gasoline to produce an additional charge for the remaining 300 miles.

Chevrolet dealers began taking orders this week for the 2011 model.

GM recently raised the number of launch markets for the Volt to seven from three.
KV Pharmaceutical sued the maker of generic drugs Perrigo Co., alleging patent infringement with its plans to make low-cost copies of the drug Gynazole used to treat female yeast infections.

KV, based in Bridgeton, is asking a federal judge in Delaware to rule that Perrigo's sale of its version of the medicinal cream would violate U.S. patent laws and to stop Perrigo from marketing the drug until the patent expires in 2017.

"Plaintiffs will be irreparably harmed" without court intervention, KV contends in court papers filed Thursday, which also seek attorneys fees.

Perrigo, based in Allegan, Mich., makes store-brand drugs. It reported $2 billion in sales for the fiscal year that ended in June 2009. Its shares have risen about 40 percent this year.

For the past 18 months, KV has languished because its production plants have been closed, in part, for failing to meet federal standards. The company reported a $313.6 million net loss on $312.3 million in sales for the fiscal year that ended in March 2009. Its stock has fallen about 70 percent this year. As a result, the company has been forced to shed payroll to compensate for declining revenue. KV employed 1,700 workers as recently as 2008; now that total is fewer than 400.

Earlier this year, a KV subsidiary  Ethex Corp.  pleaded guilty to federal charges of failing to inform the FDA that it was manufacturing oversized tablets that could be harmful to patients.

In June, KV announced that it had sold its Particle Dynamics subsidiary to an Ohio investment fund to help raise enough cash to stay afloat until production resumes. As part of the sale, the company received $24.6 million, company officials said.

The Post-Dispatch contributed to this report.
ST. LOUIS  On a stage at Boeing, a charismatic Air Force pilot dressed in a flight suit told an auditorium full of executives, engineers and suppliers how impressed he was with the precision-guided bombs they help make.

I have been fortunate or unfortunate  depending on how you think about it  to employ these in training and combat, said Maj. Mike Pako Benitez.

He was speaking about joint direct attack munition, or JDAM, which converts conventional dumb bombs into guided smart bombs. The computerized tail fin kits are slapped onto warheads weighing 500, 1,000 and 2,000 pounds.

Fitted with GPS, the $25,000 gizmos make bombs so accurate pilots like to say they can drive in nails from far away.

The air-to-surface munitions have dramatically changed war since production began in the late 1990s beside the Missouri River in St. Charles. The military needed a coordinate-seeking bomb that could be dropped during all weather conditions with minimal collateral damage, for example, on a row of apartments in a metropolitan area.

Boeing answered with JDAMs, which are being used a lot today, as coalition forces rely much less on ground troops and more on airstrikes in Afghanistan, Syria and Iraq. The meeting this week between operators and builders was called to celebrate a production milestone and to mark a new goal to make 36,500 JDAMs a year, up from 8,000 in mid-2015.

As Benitez explained, once released from his fighter jet, it takes about 30 seconds  as long as he can hold his breath  for the JDAM to glide five miles to the fixed target. Lasers are used on the devices to hit moving objects.

Theres a lot of things that run through my mind having that great responsibility to employ this weapon on a particular target, said Benitez, about to draw applause. The one thing I have never thought about is if the JDAM will work.

To demonstrate in his presentation, Benitez narrated the scene of a silent video playing on an overhead screen. A coalition convey had been shot at in Afghanistan. Smoke from an artillery round marked the enemy position way up on a hilltop. An enormous explosion eliminated the threat.

Playing the video back in slow motion, the glimpse of a 2,000-pound black dart was seen piercing the skyline at 750 feet per second. The pilot chose to detonate the bomb about 20 feet above ground, to cover more area. The blast unleashed a 700-ton-per-square-inch punch of molten metal at its center point that burned to 7,000 degrees.

Benitez turned to the silent crowd of 70 people.

And that is what you guys do, he said.

Rebuilding stockpiles

Boeing recently announced that it had made 300,000 JDAMs in the past two decades. They were sold to 28 countries, but the U.S. government is the largest customer, having dropped 60,000 of them in combat.

It is by far the weapon of choice, Brig. Gen. Shaun Q. Morris, in charge of all munitions fired from the air for the U.S. Air Force, told the Post-Dispatch.

But he said it had been used in excess of production. In 2016 alone, the Air Force dropped about 15,000 JDAMs. Last weekend, he said, 243 were used, some of them against jihadist in Mosul.

A New York Times report from a photographer embedded with the Iraqi Army seemed to speak to this.

Though much of the worst fighting was over, the soldiers were still on alert for suicide car bombers, a fear well founded, wrote Ivor Prickett. Occasionally, a radio would crackle with news that a car bomber had been spotted nearby. After a few tense minutes, we would hear the sound of a missile fired by a coalition warplane and the car exploding.

A French television news report showed footage of a tunnel system the Iraqi Army discovered. Militants had spray painted on the walls as a reminder: Watch out for jets.

One week earlier, two B-2 stealth bombers from Whiteman Air Force Base in western Missouri flew half way across the globe, with the help of multiple aerial refueling tankers, to hit desert targets in Libya with about 100 JDAMs, killing a reported 80 Islamic militants. In 1999, B-2s from Missouri were the first to use JDAMs in combat when they dropped the munitions during the NATO bombing of Yugoslavia.

In May, Boeing won a $3.2 billion contract to make JDAM guidance kits for the U.S. government through September 2020. Production goals are expected to reach 150 a day by July, up from 40 a day less than two years ago.

We expect to sustain that rate for some amount of time, not only to support ongoing operations but also to rebuild our stockpiles, Morris said.

Evolution of bombs, holy war

Eliot Cohen, former Counselor of the U.S. State Department, said the military was in a new era of warfare that was about routine and relatively cheap precision.

Thats the advantage of the JDAM over more expensive cruise missiles, said Cohen, who now teaches at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies.

Were clearly dropping a lot of them, because we are engaged in three wars: Iraq, Afghanistan, and against various jihad movements. Our land forces may have drawn down, but effectively we are the Iraqi and Afghan air forces, as well as our own.

Paul Rogers, who teaches in the department of peace studies at Bradford University in England, warned that radical religious movements could be impermeable to smart bombs.

For instance, a former most-wanted terrorist in Iraq was killed by a precision-guided bomb in 2006. At the time, Al-Qaeda in Iraq confirmed his death, yet it vowed to continue its holy war.

We want to give you the joyous news of the martyrdom of the mujahed sheik Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, their statement said then.

In the short term, it appears to work, ISIS is in retreat, Rogers said about JDAMs being dropped more recently in Mosul. But what will probably happen is they will tend to go underground and not engage in open conflict and be subject to air raids. They will probably put more of a focus on staging attacks overseas, as they have been doing in Europe and other places.

Mistakes and collateral damage still happen. In 2 years of coalition airstrikes in Libya, Iraq and Syria, an estimated 2,300 civilians have been killed, according to Airwars, which tracks the numbers. U.S. government estimates are much lower.

Still, precision-guided munitions are significantly more accurate than free fall dumb bombs. JDAMs are tested to 95 percent accuracy  striking within 30 feet of the intended target. By comparison, most of the 2.7 million tons of bombs the Allies dropped on Europe in World War II missed their marks. According to an exhaustive government report, only 20 percent of daytime precision raids fell within the 1,000-foot target area

What JDAM gives us in a level of precision with the ability to minimize collateral damage, which really, in todays warfare, are complete imperatives, Morris said. The only drawback we have today is we dont have enough of them.

Greg Coffey, director of JDAM programs at Boeing, said during a tour of the nondescript assembly plant in St. Charles that they were currently running two shifts and didnt anticipate hiring more employees to meet the higher production goals. The $105 billion air and space behemoth wouldnt say how many people worked there.

We will grow to whatever the demand of the customer is, he said.
As competition for customers heats up with more places to buy groceries, Schnuck Markets is betting big on online ordering and same-day delivery.

Beginning next month, Schnucks is rolling out a new delivery service at 29 of its local stores, including the Metro East, to both homes and businesses.

Maryland Heights-based Schnucks is among several retailers partnering with Instacart to offer online ordering and delivery beginning Feb. 16. Other retailers that will begin offering delivery through Instacart locally next month are Straubs, Shop n Save, Whole Foods Market, Costco and Petco, Instacart spokeswoman Rebecca Silliman told the Post-Dispatch on Friday.

Based in San Francisco, rapidly growing Instacart provides delivery service for retailers across the country in 30 markets. It just expanded grocery delivery in Virginia Beach and plans to launch in Nashville soon. Instacart plans to hire at least 50 people in the St. Louis area, Silliman said.

Beginning next month, customers can access Schnucks Delivers new service online at Schnucksdelivers.com. Instacart will provide the software, shoppers and drivers.

There are quite a few retailers offering delivery, and we saw a demand from the consumer for this type of service, for customers who are time-strapped or folks who arent as mobile as they used to be, said Ryan Cuba, Schnucks chief store merchant.

Customers pay online, select a window of time for the delivery and must be available when its delivered. A few product categories wont be available, including alcohol, cigarettes, floral arrangements and prescriptions.

With a minimum purchase of $35, Schnucks Delivers charges $5.99 for two-hour delivery or $9.99 for one-hour delivery. For orders under $35, two-hour delivery costs $7.99. Customers also can pay an annual fee for $149 for unlimited deliveries, or $14.99 a month.

Grocery delivery is nothing new. Decades ago, it was common for neighborhood markets to make deliveries to customers homes. More recently, Chesterfield-based Dierbergs supermarkets begin partnering with Groceries to Go, a third-party provider, in 1999 for shopping and deliveries.

Privately held Schnucks, which has 100 stores in five states, introduced its Express Connection delivery service in 1998 but the service had only a few hundred customers. At a higher delivery price, between $14 and $17, it was rarely used, and the chain stopped accepting new customers two years ago. Its 1998 technology, Cuba said of the dated website that hadnt been upgraded in years.

Instacarts software platform works well for us, and they handle it all from A to Z, Cuba said. With technology, things are changing rapidly, and we have to stay with it.

Competition among grocers has increased as more retailers including Wal-Mart, Target and dollar stores have increased their grocery offerings. As more people make purchases on their smartphones, grocers are striving to make online shopping easier.

Schnucks expansion of delivery capabilities comes as other retailers are also expanding services. Last year, Wal-Mart introduced online grocery ordering with same-day curbside pickup for no fee at a few stores in the St. Louis area and has expanded it to eight local stores.

Other companies are also expanding delivery. Online natural and organic grocery delivery service Green BEAN Delivery was founded in Indiana a decade ago and entered the St. Louis market in early 2013.

As companies such as Amazon and other retailers grow in popularity, consumers are increasingly gravitating to delivery, said Shane Towne, president of Green BEANs parent company Bean LLC.

People are getting more comfortable with product delivery because there are companies like ours that take safety and cold chain management seriously, Towne said, adding that his company uses refrigerated delivery trucks.

Green BEAN recently introduced Green BEAN Office that allows businesses to customize $50 bins filled with vegetables, snacks and drinks for employees that are delivered weekly or biweekly. Since its debut last year, the service has grown to hundreds of corporate clients in St. Louis, Cincinnati, Nashville, Tenn., and a few other markets.
ST. LOUIS  From rooftop solar to energy storage and smart metering, there are plenty of ways in which new technology is altering the electric utility business. But tech startups are even devoting attention to simpler aspects of the industry  such as checking for downed utility poles after a storm.

Developing a solution to that seemingly mundane problem helped spark an international partnership between St. Louis-based utility Ameren Corp. and Atomation, a tech company based in Tel Aviv that has become the latest Israeli startup  and the first outside of biotech  to make inroads into St. Louis and base its U.S. operations in the city.

At Amerens headquarters Friday, the two companies announced the launch of a pilot project that will examine outfitting utility poles with small sensors that wirelessly transmit information about any movement the poles make. If one of its two million poles were to develop a worrisome list or come down completely, the utility will become aware faster and with more precision than their current system allows.

Now we have people out in the middle of the night, walking around, looking for poles that are knocked down, said Scott Bond, the pilot lead for Amerens innovation technology efforts. The hope is this technology can better direct those inspections.

But Fridays announcement also served to more broadly welcome Atomation to town. Attendees included Gov. Eric Greitens as well as economic development officials from BioSTL, the organization whose GlobalSTL initiative helped recruit Atomation to St. Louis and facilitate their connection with Ameren.

Atomation specializes in providing connectivity to cloud computing, helping usher wide-ranging items equipped with sensors into the so-called internet of things.

Our vision is to connect sensors (and) much more objects to our cloud, said Guy Weitzman, the companys CEO and founder.

Whether its monitoring damage to utility poles or finding applications for the growing use of sensors in agribusiness or manufacturing, Weitzman said he sees potential for the company to grow locally along with its clientele.

I believe by the end well have between 5 to 10 new positions, Weitzman said, referring to Atomations presence in the area. But again, it depends on how we accelerate our business.

Ameren is Atomations largest area customer, but Weitzman said the company was also working with the Danforth Center, DynaQuip Controls and has had discussions with Monsanto.

Donn Rubin, the president and CEO of BioSTL, said there are four other Israeli startups with their American headquarters in the St. Louis area, all of which focus on agriculture.

The pilot between Ameren and Atomation will be conducted at an Ameren research center in Champaign, Ill., and will begin in February. Dozens of poles there will be outfitted with sensors, and the effort will be assessed at the end of the year.
Ordering a bottle of Corona beer at a bar in the United States is a simple proposition.

Getting it there from its brewery in Mexico involves a complex, cross-border supply network that will likely get more complicated if President Donald Trump follows through on vows to renegotiate the North American Free Trade Agreement or tax imports.

Trump has not outlined specific plans for revising NAFTA, but he has made repeated calls for a levy to discourage companies from moving jobs outside the United States. Among the proposals floated by the new administration is a 20 percent tax on imports.

The stakes are high for brands like Corona, which is entirely brewed in Mexico, and the transport companies such as Union Pacific that make money moving the beers raw ingredients and packaging into Mexico, and bringing the finished brew back to the United States.

Victor, N.Y.-based Constellation Brands, which owns the U.S. rights to Corona, plans to spend $2.5 billion to expand an existing brewery in Nava, just south of the border with Texas and $2 billion on a new brewery in Mexicali by 2021.

Just days before the Nov. 8 election, the company said it would buy a Mexican brewery from Grupo Modelo for $600 million and expand its operations in the country.

To qualify as a Mexican beer, Constellations beer brands must be made in Mexico. However, about 40 percent of the cost of the companys Mexican beers are tied to ingredients, supplies and freight services that come from the U.S., said David Klein, Constellations chief financial officer during a conference call earlier this month.

The company imports hops, barley and other grains from the U.S. to brew Corona. The company does not disclose the specific origin of ingredients.

The majority of our glass bottle supply comes from the glass plant at the Nava brewery and other Mexico suppliers. We source less than 20 percent of our glass bottles from the United States. Some raw materials, including hops and grains to brew the beer, do come from the United States, Constellation said in a statement.

Farms in the Midwestern and Northwestern United States are major growers of barley in North America, and in 2015 Mexico was the worlds largest importer of U.S. barley. Since 2010, Mexico has been either the worlds largest importer of U.S. hops or second just behind the United Kingdom.

Unraveling the NAFTA supply chains of companies such as Constellation, or the big automakers, would lead to higher prices for consumer goods, experts and industry executives say.

Everyone would lose, especially the consumer, its that simple, said Brandon Stallard, CEO of Troy, Mich.-based TPS Logistics, which handles tens of thousands of cross-border shipments for customers daily.

U.S. companies also benefit from Corona production. Perrysburg, Ohio-based glass maker Owens-Illinois formed a joint venture with Constellation to expand a glass bottle plant next to the Nava brewery and subsequently bought a major Mexican glass bottle producer to meet demand.

Owens-Illinois declined to comment on where its raw materials come from.

Broomfield, Colo.-based Ball Corp. is building a plant in Mexicali to make cans for Constellations new brewery.

Constellation says it imports almost 20 percent of its glass bottles from the United States. The company did not say where those bottles come from, but Lance Fritz, chief executive of No. 1 U.S. railroad Union Pacific often cites the example of glass bottles the company hauls from a plant in Texas to a brewery in Mexico and that those bottles are made from recycled glass Union Pacific hauls from all over America.

The railroad has also invested $40 million in a cleaning, washing and repair facility for beer-carrying box-cars just north of Constellations Nava brewery. Union Pacific hauls U.S. barley, malt and rice for brewing.

The job we have at hand is to help our elected officials see the world from our perspective and then pray for them to make the right decision, said Fritz.
Hundreds of people gathered at the St. Louis County Library in Ladue on Friday to hear human rights activist Bernice King, daughter of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., talk about her life, her family and notably the life of her late mother.

The life of Kings mother, Coretta Scott King, is detailed in the newly released biography, My Life, My Love, My Legacy, by the Rev. Dr. Barbara Reynolds. Bernice King, chief officer of the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change, wrote the afterward for the book.

Taking full command of the podium with a preachers fervor, King expertly wove together crucial moments from her childhood, adolescence and early adult life by highlighting the importance of faith and her parents, especially her mother, and their pursuit of justice. She said she believed their work was a calling, one she said she once fought in an effort to escape the shadow of a father who was assassinated when she was 5 years old.

Many people remember the famous photograph of the girl on her mothers lap in 1968. That was me, said King, who appearance was part of the librarys celebration of Black History Month. The library said more than 700 people attended.

The day of her fathers funeral was confusing, King said, remembering a recording of one of the elder Kings sermons playing at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta that day. What followed in subsequent years, she said, were feelings of loss and anger.

But King said her journey to understanding her calling was guided by her mother, who she called a mentor and credited with upholding her fathers legacy.

From laying on her lap in 1968 to now standing over her casket and remains in 2006, King said, ...it was only then that I realized that I had a role and a responsibility in this legacy. That all those years that I was processing through all of this pain and anger, God was preparing me and he was using her as the vehicle and instrument unbeknownst to me.

With her parents work in mind, King called for the crowd to close the countrys racial divide by seeking opportunities to understand others. At one point, mentioning President Donald Trumps administration, she also called on the group to reject violent and divisive language.

The stuff that were waiting on to happen from the hierarchy of government is really going to occur as it did at my fathers moment, at the grass-roots level  each and every one of us being willing to be courageous and have these courageous dialogues and conversations, King said. Weve got to break down some of those walls and thoughts and perceptions in peoples heads that cause them to create and perpetuate systems and structures.

King said while it continues to be difficult to share her parents with the world, she was glad about the choices they made.

Peoples lives have literally been saved. Our nation has been saved because of the decision that they made to give their life to the cause for freedom and justice, King said.

In the mostly adult crowd were brothers Jayden, 9, and Jeremy Denis, 8, their mother and Jaydens third-grade teacher.

Jayden, still dressed in his black suit and tie, had portrayed the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in a school program on Friday. He and his brother wanted to accompany his teacher to the event where they could see the daughter of two renowned civil rights activists.

Their mother, Muneyi Denis, said she believed her sons benefited hearing from a person who, like them, had lost her father at a young age.

They were asking, Why would God take my dad? Denis said of her children. Hearing her story it connected with them.
By Press Trust of India: Jammu, Jan 28 (PTI) A total of 8,587 accused people were arrested during the six-month-long unrest in the Valley and out of which 8,473 have been released till January 22, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti told Legislative Assembly today.

She was replying to the Cut Motion by National Conference MLA Mohammad Akbar Lone in the House.

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Mehbooba said that "76 civilians", including two police personnel, were killed during the "recent law and order situation in the Kashmir valley".

Around 522 persons were detained under the J&K Public Safety Act as on January 21, out of them 257 have been released, she said.

However, Mehbooba said the details of injured persons, including those who lost eyesight, is being compiled in consultation with the Health and Medical Education Department.

The state government has also constituted a committee headed by the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir to identify the persons who have been partially/permanently disabled during the recent law and order disturbances and furnish necessary recommendations in a time-bound manner, she added. PTI AB DK AQS AKK AQS AQS

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Jim Quashnock collects organs, of the musical kind.

And the Wichita City, Texas, man wants more information about the connection between a Wurlitzer organ he owns and an amusement park that operated for about 70 years along South Broadway Avenue near River Des Peres.

The site  bordered by South Broadway, River Des Peres, Water Street and Catalan Avenue  is now home to a roller rink, a bus stop and a shuttered building that was home to several nightclubs over the last 40 years. But the organ fits in somewhere in the sites history as an amusement park before that.

Quashnocks research has verified that the organ was made in 1928 by Wurlitzer in Tonawanda, N.Y., and then sold to the Allan Herschell Co., which also was situated in Tonawanda and sold the organs along with the carousels they manufactured.

Its considered portable, but its no light lifting: It sits about 5 feet high and 6 feet wide and weighs in at 640 pounds.

Wurlitzer marketed it as a military band organ because it had such a big sound. Its considered portable because it came with handles and wheels, he said.

Quashnock knows the organ was sold in 1930 to a man named Sauter in St. Louis.

And I know Mr. Sauter was the owner in 1937 because of a repair note written inside the organ, Quashnock said, referring to the notation left by the repairman, A.L. Crescio of Leavenworth, Kan.

What Id like to know is how long it was at the park, because it wasnt included in a list of auction items when the park closed in 1953, he said.

Mannions Amusement Park opened on the site in 1896. It was sold in 1925 to Alois Sauter, who was the park manager, according to an article in a National Amusement Park Historical Association, or NAPHA, publication. It was then renamed Sauters Amusement Park.

Sauter was a German immigrant who worked in the grocery and saloon business in the Lemay area until 1898, when he bought the Continental Hotel & Saloon on Lemay Ferry Road, according to articles in the Missouri History Museum.

When Sauter died in the 1920s, the hotel and the amusement park passed down to his son, Gus Sauter, archives indicate.

The younger Sauter spruced up the park between the 1929 and 1930 seasons, buying several new rides, including an improved roller coaster known as The Flash, and a Herschell Co. carousel, the NAPHA article indicates.

The lingering Great Depression economy forced the park to declare bankruptcy in 1941 and the park was bought by a group of trustees.

By 1943, it was known as The Downs amusement park. The park closed in 1953 and items were put up for auction. It did re-open shortly thereafter and operated, at least as a public pool, for about 15 more years.

Quashnock figures that the organ was sold sometime before 1954 to Robert House of Minnesota. Houses survivors sold it to another man, who sold it to Quashnock in 2008.

Quashnock, 71 and a retired Air Force laboratory director, has been able to play the organ for more than 50 years, but has only collected them since the 1990s.

But what Id really like to know is if anyone in St. Louis has a picture of the organ actually with the carousel, Quashnock said, with both hope and reverence.

A picture like that, its the Holy Grail for carousel organ collectors.
HAIFA, Israel  When Yaakov Edelstein, 86, a Holocaust survivor, agreed to a bar mitzvah ceremony he never had as a child, he asked that it take place at the citys Home for Holocaust Survivors.

Although Edelstein and his wife live in a comfortable senior citizen residence in this northern Israeli city, he wanted to celebrate this milestone  73 years late  at the survivors home because we come here to socialize, to hear lectures and attend events. I wanted to mark this day with people who experienced what I experienced. No one can appreciate this the way they can.

The home, which provides housing to 75 survivors and hot meals and services to 200 others, was founded through an unlikely collaboration between an Orthodox Israeli philanthropist and the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem, an evangelical Christian organization based in Israel.

Though the vast majority of survivor funding comes from the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany, which negotiates for compensation and restitution for victims of Nazi persecution, several Christian organizations assist Holocaust survivors in Israel and elsewhere.

That assistance is more vital than ever, say survivor advocates, who marked International Holocaust Remembrance Day on Friday. A quarter of survivors in Israel live below the poverty line, and the percentage is even higher in the former Soviet Union.

The survivors advanced age and financial challenges have given us an even greater sense of urgency, said David Parsons, ICEJs senior spokesman.

Parsons said the thousands of Christians from dozens of countries who donate money to ICEJ had two motivations.

They want to bless the Jewish people and they want to pay the moral debt we Christians owe to the Jewish people because of the atrocities committed against them in the name of Jesus.

Jews who suffered in the Holocaust suffered most of all, Parsons said.

More than 26,000 Christians have been honored by Israels Holocaust museum, Yad Vashem, for saving Jews during the Holocaust, but many more actively collaborated with the Nazis, some of whom professed to be Christians themselves.

In an attempt to make amends, tens of thousands of Christians, especially from European countries that embraced the Nazi regime, have volunteered in Israeli hospitals and homes for the aged and have donated tens of millions of dollars to organizations that help the neediest Jews, chief among them Holocaust survivors.

Christians are working abroad, too. Christians Care International, for example, just opened a senior center in Ukraine that will help hundreds of impoverished Jews, many of whom are Holocaust survivors.

Survivors are typically in worse physical, emotional and financial shape than others their age, said Yudit Setz, assistant director of ICEJs aid department. The effects of starvation, frostbite, torture (including medical experimentation) and lack of medical and dental care when they were children have followed the survivors into old age. Many lost their families and now lack the support systems others rely on.

Though Holocaust survivors from some European countries have received financial compensation for loss of property and enslavement, others, especially in the former Soviet Union, subsist on tiny state pensions and perhaps some assistance from the Claims Conference, said Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein, president of the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews.

The fellowship, which has been assisting elderly Soviet Jews for two decades, supports roughly 110,000 survivors, but there are 60,000 to 70,000 we cant help due to lack of funds, Eckstein said.

Eckstein called it outrageous that so much of the reparations money Germany gave to the state of Israel and Claims Conference has been used to create Holocaust museums, education programs and memorials when you have elderly survivors who dont have food, medicine and heating fuel. It is a blight on the world Jewish community that we are leaving it to Christians to provide survivors with their basic needs.

In response, Amy Wexler, the Claims Conferences public relations manager, said the organization had distributed $8 billion directly to survivors since 1980 through a variety of compensation programs.

In addition, Wexler said, our funding for social services, including home care, food and medicine for poor survivors, has drastically increased year after year.

Shimon Sabag, the Israeli philanthropist whose aid organization, Yad Ezer LeHaver, runs the Haifa home with the ICEJ, said the home received no funding from either the Claims Conference or Israeli government.

That makes the Christians contribution that much more important, he said.

They are giving the truest form of charity because they ask for nothing in return, Sabag said. We are proud to be their partners.

The fellowship recently earmarked $52 million over four years to expand its services to needy elderly Russian Jews, including tens of thousands of survivors, in partnership with the Joint Distribution Committee, the leading Jewish humanitarian assistance organization.

The fellowship, which like the ICEJ says it does not evangelize to Jews, also distributes supermarket vouchers to 20,000 Israeli survivors and sends volunteers to visit the lonely.

Avraham Marek, 103, who has lived alone in his Jerusalem apartment since his wife died 10 years ago, recently welcomed a visit from Jancy Benvenishti, the fellowships Jerusalem coordinator.

Mareks parents and all 10 of his siblings were murdered in Czechoslovakia during the Holocaust; he managed to survive because he enlisted in the Czech army. He moved to Israel in 1949 with his wife, a survivor of Auschwitz.

In his apartment in a working-class Jerusalem neighborhood, Marek expressed his appreciation to Benvenishti, who had come to check on his well-being.

At the visits end, Marek took her hands and gave her a Hebrew blessing.

May God give you a life as long as mine, with health as good as mine, he said. And may God give you the ability to continue your holy work to those of us who need it.
ST. CHARLES COUNTY  A Florissant man has been arrested in connection with a holdup Monday at Discount Cigarettes and Beer in the 1800 block of Old South Highway 94, police announced Friday.

Stacy Tyler Strozier, 26, of the 1300 block of Beltower Drive, was charged with felony robbery in the case.

He was being held with cash bail set at $25,000. Details of the arrest were not released.

St. Charles County police said Strozier entered the store about 11 a.m. Monday, brandished a handgun and demanded cash from a clerk. He fled the building with an undisclosed amount of money.
ST. LOUIS  Police here released surveillance images of a man carrying what appears to be a cash register drawer after a break-in and robbery of a Central West End cookie bakery last week.

An employee of Insomnia Cookies at 226 North Euclid Avenue arrived at the business the morning of Jan. 21 to find the front-door glass had been broken through and the cash register drawer was missing, police said.

A man was seen on surveillance video walking northbound on Euclid shortly after the break-in and theft, police said. The images show him carrying what appears to be a cash register drawer.

Officials ask anyone with information to make an anonymous call to Crime Stoppers at 866-371-8477.
EAST ST. LOUIS  Police here are searching for a wanted man on foot who has been known to shoot at police officers.

The man ran out of his car during a traffic stop Friday afternoon on Interstate 70 just before the Stan Musial Veterans Memorial Bridge, Illinois State Police Trooper Calvin Dye Jr. said. He was last seen near the intersection of North First Street and St. Clair Avenue in East St. Louis.

"He's known to be armed and dangerous and in the past has exchanged gunfire with police," Dye said.

A state trooper pulled the man over in a westbound lane of I-70 about 3:24 p.m., Dye said. The man stayed in his car while the trooper took his license and searched his name.

The man had a warrant for his arrest from the Illinois Department of Corrections, Dye said. As the trooper started to approach the car again, the man got out and ran off.

An adult passenger and a small child in the car were uninjured, Dye said. The passenger cooperated with police. The child was with family Friday night.

Officers with area police departments and K-9 units were assisting state police in the search Friday night, Dye said. No gunfire was exchanged between the man and police Friday afternoon.

Dye said he did not have a description of the man.
Thanks to a long-standing practice in Finland and donations from two St. Louis entities, Billee Williamson and other mothers of newborns in Missouris Bootheel have a new tool to combat high rates of sleep deaths: cardboard boxes for their babies to sleep inside.

But theres debate whether the boxinettes will reduce sudden infant deaths or introduce new dangers to areas such as St. Louis, where infants die at an alarmingly high rate.

The boxes are gaining popularity among health policy leaders. Just last week, public health officials in New Jersey announced a universal program to distribute the boxes to all new mothers in the state.

Finland has been giving out the boxes to new mothers since the late 1930s, and their prevalence in the Nordic country has been tied to its extremely low infant-mortality rate. The colorfully decorated boxes are filled with clothes and other baby care items, with a bottom lined with a thin pad.

Parents can opt to use the emptied box and pad as a simple bassinet for the newborn. In Finland, many do, offering them a free alternative to more dangerous sleep practices such as sharing a bed.

In the Bootheel, the hope is to give all new mothers who want one their own free boxinette to deter them from sharing a bed with their infants.

I think it would have been good if I had had one 12 years ago, said Williamson, of East Prairie, who recently got the box for her third child, November, age 3 months. Williamson said more than a decade ago she had no idea she was putting her oldest son at risk when she shared a bed with him as an infant.

Beginning this month, the boxes have been sent home with new moms in the Bootheel at three hospitals and through a federally funded Healthy Start home visiting program for mothers and newborns.

With gifts and funding provided through Home State Health Care  a subsidiary of Centene  and the Missouri Foundation for Health, the groups have built an inventory of nearly 3,000 boxes.

If one box saves a life, thats great, said Cynthia Dean, CEO of the Missouri Bootheel Regional Consortium, which runs the Healthy Start program.

Finland, with an extensive social welfare system, has one of the worlds lowest infant mortality rates, about two babies per every thousand.

In Missouris six-county Bootheel, the infant mortality rate is four times that of Finland and a third higher than the U.S. average of 6.1 deaths for every 1,000 births. In a recent 10-year span, 218 babies younger than 1 year died in the Bootheel, an area with a population smaller than Springfield, Mo.

But the Finnish sleep boxes are not universally accepted, with critics saying they should not be considered a silver bullet to prevent infant mortality.

Dr. James Kemp, a safe sleep researcher and pediatrician with Washington University School of Medicine, said the boxes in themselves provide a safe sleep environment for babies. But issues arise if parents dont use them properly. Babies should be moved to a crib when they reach 15 pounds or if they are beginning to pull themselves up on the side of the box.

Kemp said the transition out of the box may be where the greatest risk lies. He said during forensic investigations in St. Louis, bassinets that babies had outgrown were often found in the same room where infants died while bed-sharing with a parent.

My main concern, frankly, is when the child is considered too big for the box, the parents take the child into the bed, he said.

Due to concerns over safety, the SIDS Resources of St. Louis does not support use of the boxes, said Executive Director Lori Behrens.

Co-sleeping risks

The boxes cost about $80 and are marketed for sale online to individuals and groups. In addition to New Jersey they are being distributed for free in hospitals in Philadelphia and Seattle.

The boxes are meant to primarily combat situations in which parents who lack cribs share their bed with a baby, or use couches or adult beds.

Bed-sharing  along with the use of blankets, bumpers and pillows  increases risk of unexpected infant death, particularly through suffocation or SIDS, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Dr. Alan Barnette, a neonatologist with St. Francis Healthcare System in Cape Girardeau  one of the hospitals now distributing the boxes  said more than a quarter of infant deaths in the Bootheel are due to unsafe sleep practices. Most of those are caused by bed-sharing.

These mothers get in the habit of sleeping with their infants because it is easier to console them when they are crying. It becomes a pattern, Barnette said.

Cheryl Nolen, a home visiting case manager with the Missouri Bootheel Regional Consortium, said many area mothers recently polled said they arent concerned about the risks of co-sleeping. Its a cultural norm to repeatedly check on whether an infant is breathing, and co-sleeping makes that easier, the women report.

All of the mothers who receive the boxes in the Bootheel are provided training and watch videos on their safe use, either prior to leaving the hospital or through home visits.

The Bootheel programs also involve area health departments. They, too, can distribute the boxes and provide training through the federal Women, Infants and Children supplemental nutrition program.

Even so, Nolen said, changing habits is difficult.

I had a mom and I took a baby box out to her, and her church had bought her something as well, and shes still co-sleeping, she said.

Raising concerns

The popularity of the boxes in the U.S. comes at a time when public health officials are seeking solutions to combat poor infant mortality rates. The U.S. ranks 26th in a global study of the rates among larger developed countries.

In some urban St. Louis area ZIP codes, those infant death rates rival developing third-world countries.

As a result, St. Louis Treasurer Tishaura Jones has included baby boxes in her campaign platform in the citys mayoral race. She said every expectant mother in St. Louis should be given a box with supplies and information on local resources.

We need to do what we can to give our new moms the first best steps that we can, especially with the high infant mortality rates that are prevalent in our area, she said. So we need to let moms know about them.

But Behrens, of the SIDS resources, said her group supports other approaches to addressing sleep deaths in St. Louis. That includes an existing initiative to distribute free Pack N Play-style portable cribs.

She said she worries policymakers are comparing disparate situations in Finland with the United States, where issues surrounding infant mortality, poverty and bed sharing are different and highly complex.

She also worries about sanitary issues with the boxes and general safety. She further called out the inequity issues, where poor people are given cardboard boxes for their babies and others get real cribs.

Others on the fence include the leaders of Flourish, a regional initiative to lower infant mortality.

Kendra Copanas, head of Generate Health St. Louis, which is sponsoring the Flourish campaign, said skepticism about the boxes has been shared in other communities outside Missouri.

Older African-American women saw this as going backwards, like when they had to put their babies in dresser drawers, Copanas said.

But she said theres an upside to the boxes: Its got a lot of people talking about the importance of safe sleep, and thats an important conversation to be having.

Williamson, the new mother, was at first skeptical, but now is an advocate for the boxes.

She has a bassinet in her bedroom, but she likes using the box with her baby, November, during the day to keep her close. The boxes have also prompted discussion about safe sleep with family and friends.

Barnette, the pediatrician, said the baby box project is a pilot program that will be studied for its effectiveness. To that end, local pediatricians have been asked to use an iPad survey to track the mothers and the boxes. In the meantime, everyone is hopeful more babies will thrive in the Bootheel.

I dont think this an infant mortality rate anyone should find acceptable, Barnette said.
US President Donald Trump said Wednesday he "will absolutely do safe zones in Syria" for refugees fleeing violence in their country, devastated by years of civil war.

In his first televised interview as president, Trump said Germany and other European countries had made a tremendous mistake by allowing millions of refugees through their borders.

"I don't want that to happen here," he told ABC news. He did not give details as to what his safe zone plan for Syria entails.

What does Trump mean by safe zones?

Such zones are meant to be areas where civilians can live without fear of being targeted by any party in Syria's long civil war, protected by the international community. The Trump administration sees safe zones as the way to stem and even reverse the migration of Syrians to Europe and elsewhere.

So far, President Trump has not gone beyond the declaration that he "will absolutely do safe zones" for the Syrian people. It's an idea he broached in November 2015 as a candidate, when he proposed building "a big beautiful safe zone and you have whatever it is so people can live, and they'll be happier."

The Department of Defense and the State Department are now charged with filling in the details. But the draft order from the White House instructs officials to "produce a plan to provide safe areas in Syria and in the surrounding region." The latter would be much less problematic.

Safe zones would need to be protected both by ground forces and the imposition of a no-fly zone and so require detailed planning and substantial resources to work. One big question: Would the administration seek the creation of safe zones through the United Nations, by agreement with other governments (principally Russia and Syria), or unilaterally? The last option would be extremely perilous -- given the Russian presence and the hostility of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime -- and requires the injection of a substantial number of US military forces.

The Kremlin warned Thursday that "Washington must think about the potential consequences of establishing safe zones." Russia is perennially suspicious of Western plans to orchestrate regime change (think Libya, Serbia) disguised as humanitarian help.

How will the zones work logistically?

The size and location of such zones are critical; so is the "buy-in" (or lack of it) from the Syrian government, Russia and Turkey. If such a zone was established in northern Syria, for example, Turkish forces could be involved in protecting and supplying it. They and the Syrian groups they support have already carved out an area free of both ISIS and the Kurdish YPG militia. But many refugees would be very wary of returning to any part of Syria while the situation remains so unpredictable. It would be extraordinarily difficult and morally questionable to force them to do so.

Northern Syria has many fault lines: the Kurds, ISIS, the regime, other rebel factions including the former al Qaeda affiliate Jabhat Fateh al-Sham, all have a presence. And for ISIS -- even though it's on the defensive in much of northern Syria -- the presence of international peacekeepers trying to protect a safe zone would be a mouth-watering prospect.

The chaotic and fluid battlefield of Syria -- and the difficulty of protecting a large perimeter of open land -- makes the establishment of safe zones very hazardous. How would they be protected from infiltration by rebel groups?

For all these reasons, the Obama administration shied away from supporting safe zones, despite considerable lobbying from Turkey, where 2.8 million Syrian refugees are registered.

There is also the issue of cost. In 2013, Gen. Martin Dempsey, chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, said a no-fly zone would "require hundreds of ground and sea-based aircraft, intelligence and electronic warfare support," costing up to $1 billion per month. Some of those resources would have to be diverted from missions against ISIS -- another prime objective of the administration. (A no-fly zone and a safe zone are not necessarily identical concepts, but given Assad's use of aerial attacks, a safe zone is difficult to imagine without a no-fly zone.)

President Trump has repeatedly suggested that the Gulf States would pay to maintain safe zones in Syria. He told the German newspaper Bild this month: "The Gulf states should have had to pay for them. After all, they have money like hardly anyone else has." But the Gulf states, which have backed different rebel factions, have offered no public support for such an idea. A year ago, Saudi Arabia talked about deploying ground forces to Syria to protect certain rebel-held areas from the regime, but the idea quickly evaporated as the battlefield swung in favor of Assad.

Have they been tried before? If so, what was the outcome?

Yes, in Bosnia, and the outcome was bad. In 1993, the international community designed six "safe havens" for Muslim communities, to protect them from Serb attacks. A UN report at the time said the goal included limiting "loss of life and property, deterring aggression, demonstrating international concern and involvement, setting the stage for political negotiations and facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid." The objective in Syria would likely be very similar.

These safe havens were to be protected by a UN peacekeeping presence and, if necessary, air power. But the UN troops were inadequately armed and thin on the ground, and in 1995 the Bosnian Serb militia rolled into one of the safe havens -- Srebrenica -- and slaughtered thousands of men and boys.

The failure of the safe zone policy in Bosnia led NATO toward a full-fledged air war against the Bosnian Serbs.

There are fears that safe zones could promote division of Syria. Are these legitimate?

They are, depending on where they are and how permanent they become -- and how well they are administered. Rebels might want to take advantage of safe zones for resupply and sanctuary. Essentially, the Syrian government would have no role in such areas, which is why it has consistently opposed the idea as infringing on its sovereignty. The question is: At what point would it be safe to dismantle them? If they become sanctuaries for thousands who oppose the regime, do they end up being cantons of resistance?

Who will benefit from such a plan, who will lose?

The trouble with safe zones is that they are a means to an end, not a permanent state. If -- and it's a big if -- there was international agreement on creating safe zones in Syria, and if Russia was able to bring the Assad regime on board, they could become a halfway house for the resettlement of at least some of the millions of Syrians languishing in refugee camps in neighboring countries. That would relieve some of the pressure on host governments such as Jordan, Lebanon and Turkey. Successful safe zones could also reduce the flow of Syrians to Europe.

Right now, there is no obvious incentive for either Assad or Russia to help create, or even tolerate, safe zones they don't control.

The question remains: What is the ultimate goal of US policy in Syria now? Does it still envisage the eventual removal of Assad and continued military support for the Kurds and moderate rebel factions (or those that survive)? Is it reduced simply to targeting ISIS? Does the US become "best supporting actor" to a process now co-owned by Russia, Turkey and Iran? The introduction of safe zones has to fit within a much larger scheme.
NSG has been requested to send a team for carrying out necessary drill to diffuse the shell.

By Press Trust of India: Creating sensation in a south Delhi neighbourhood this morning, an abandoned mortar shell was found in a park at Vasant Kunj (North) after which police cordoned off the area and called National Security Guard (NSG) for defusing it.

Locals spotted the mortar shell lying in the park of Kishan Garh locality after which they informed the police who reached there and cordoned off the entire area.

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"A PCR call was received around 8.30 AM regarding the finding of the mortar shell in the park Machli Wala, Samadhi Van village, Kishan Garh, in Vasant Kunj(N). The entire area has been cordoned off and evacuated as a precautionary measure," said a senior police officer.

NSG has been requested to send a team for carrying out necessary drill to diffuse the shell, he said.

Police added that the old and corroded shell has been covered with a "bomb blanket" to avert any accidental blast.

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Say this for Donald Trump: He wasnt kidding.

He spent 534 days as an announced candidate for president, saying outrageous things and making outlandish promises. He spent his first seven days as president saying more outlandish things and starting to fulfill as many of those outlandish promises as he could.

Those who hoped that there was more to Trump than he showed on the campaign trail must accept a harsh truth: There isnt. Trump meant what he said. Theres no kinder, gentler, more thoughtful, better informed incarnation. What you see is what you get.

The first clue came on Day 1 with that dark, inward-looking American carnage inaugural address. The time for empty talk is over, Trump thundered. Now arrives the hour of action.

He went immediately to the Oval Office and signed an executive order modifying regulatory compliance with the Affordable Care Act. Whatever the laws problems, what Trump did will make them worse. Many people who voted for him will be priced out of coverage. Never mind  he said he was going after Obamacare, and he did.

He spent Day 2 obsessing over news reports about the size of the inaugural crowd. He sent his new press secretary, Sean Spicer, out to make claims that were patently false.

On Sunday, Day 3, Trumps apologist in chief, Kellyanne Conway, announced that Trump wasnt going to release his tax returns after all. She said Spicer hadnt really lied, but merely presented alternative facts.

Day 4, Trump really got going. He signed an order withdrawing the U.S. from the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal, abdicating U.S. leadership on global trade partnerships and ceding Asian markets to China. He reinstituted the gag rule forbidding health care providers who receive U.S. foreign assistance from bringing up the subject of abortion. He ordered a hiring freeze throughout the government, including civilian Defense Department employees.

Day 5, Tuesday, he put the environmentally controversial Dakota Access and Keystone XL pipelines back on the table. He gagged government employees dealing with science and climate change.

Day 6 was peak Trump. He signed an order to start work on a border wall, triggering a diplomatic standoff with Mexico. He said he wanted to bring back torture. He signaled greater restrictions on immigrants from seven Muslim countries (not including Saudi Arabia, with whom the Trump Organization does a lot of business) and ordered a crackdown on undocumented immigrants. He touted a crackpot study of voter fraud.

Day 7, he suggested paying for his wall with a 20 percent tax on imports from Mexico, which would raise U.S. prices, ravage the Mexican economy and start a retaliatory trade war. Mexicos leader canceled a visit.

Governance, unlike campaigning, requires conforming with reality. Things will get harder for Trump in coming weeks. In Week 1, Trump showed he doesnt handle reality very well.
I took my children into the voting booth with me and later my grandchildren so they could learn the procedure and why it is so important.
Each Saturday and Sunday well post a Quick Smoke: not quite a full review, just our brief verdict on a single cigar of buy, hold, or sell.

Revamped a couple years ago, the Winston Churchill brand from Davidoff proudly announces itself with the company name and an iconic image of the British statesman on its white band. At 5.25 inches long with a ring gauge of 52, the Robusto is a bit larger than the typical robusto. And it is packed with flavor. It begins with cedar, pepper, and an earthy undertone. Some of the typical Davidoff grass floats in and out along the way, as does a dark coffee flavor. The blend combines a brown Ecuadorian Habano wrapper, a Mexican binder, and filler leaves from Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic. At $16.50, its not likely to be an everyday smoke for many, but if youre looking for a medium-strength treat, pick one up.

Verdict = Buy.

George E

photo credit: Stogie Guys
STAR attractions at this years Stratford Literary Festival include queen of cookery Mary Berry, journalist and writer Andrew Marr, and political figures Ken Livingstone, Roy Hattersley and Paddy Ashdown.

The festival takes place between 23rd and 30th April, and will be celebrating its tenth anniversary by returning to its beginnings in 2008 with the theme of Sharing Stories, say festival organisers.

The tenth year of what is considered one of the UKs most ground-breaking festivals is celebrated with its largest and most diverse programme yet.

Events range from the Romantic poets to the humanitarian catastrophe in Syria, wartime spies to The Great British Bake Off.

Headline speakers also include the former head of the British Army, Richard Dannatt, Beirut hostage Terry Waite, Waterstones Book of The Year author Sarah Perry, leading economist Bill Emmott, and cultural curator Roy Strong.

An extensive programme of events for children includes the former Childrens Laureate, Malorie Blackman, and many award-winning authors and illustrators including Nick Butterworth and Sarah McIntyre, CBeebies Jess French, and philosopher Peter Worley, as well as two major projects to encourage children to read and to create bedtime stories with their parents.

Childrens Day will round off the festival with the Horrible Histories Barmy Britain Show, hot foot from a run in the West End, a show for younger children with Elmer the Patchwork Elephant, Playbox Theatres latest performance, plus events and workshops with Horrible Histories illustrator, Martin Brown, the brilliant Sarah McIntyre, Philip Reeve, Rob Biddulph, Steven Lenton, Jonny Duddle, Anna Wright and Judy Reaves, bringing to life everything from pirates to funfairs, with something for everyone from aged three to 13.

Founding director, Annie Ashworth, said: The programme is packed to bursting, and weve tried hard to offer a wide variety of events to engage as many people as possible. I really hope though that people will give some events a try that they might not believe are for them. They might discover lovely surprises.
Glody Muyeki was arrested in Stratford with 600 of crack cocaine in his possession

Glody Muyeki, aged 20, of Stamford Road, Birmingham, has today been sentenced to 30 months in prison at Warwick Crown Court after being found guilty of possession of crack cocaine with intent to supply.

Muyeki was arrested on 20 September 2016 after his vehicle was stopped on Justins Avenue, Stratford-upon-Avon. Following the arrest, crack cocaine with an estimated street value of 600 was seized.

Detective Constable Gavin Hampton said: "This is a welcome outcome following some excellent intelligence led police work. Most importantly, a significant amount of crack cocaine was removed from the streets of Stratford.

"We are committed to tackling drug crime and the public has an important role in helping us to do this. If anyone has any concerns about drug activity in their area they should report it to us. We will act upon every piece of information provided to us."
By Press Trust of India: New Delhi, Jan 28 (PTI) An abandoned mortar shell was found outside a DDA park at Vasant Kunj (North) in south Delhi this morning, creating sensation in the area, with the police cordoning off the area and calling National Security Guard (NSG) for diffusing it.

The locals spotted the mortar shell lying outside the DDA park in Kishan Garh locality in Vasant Kunj area. They informed the police who reached there and cordoned off the entire area.

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"A PCR call was received around 8.30 AM regarding the finding of the mortar shell near the park Machli Wala, Samadhi Van village, Kishan Garh, in Vasant Kunj(N). The entire area has been cordoned off and evacuated as a precautionary measure," said a senior police officer.

The bomb disposal squad of National Security Guard (NSG) carefully picked the unexploded explosive ordinance, referred to as UXO in technical language, using sophisticated ROV (robot) machine, he said.

The squad placed it in a TCV (total containment vessel), to be carried to Manesar where it will be disposed off following standard protocols.

From visual inspection, the UXO appears to be foreign-made with its fuse intact but of old vintage, said the officer.

"The necessary legal action is being taken in the matter. More details about the mortar can only be known after full technical investigations," he said, adding that an UXO may not explode even during disposal as it may have lost its potency.

In a similar incident, three 120 mm shells of World War II vintage were found on April 14 last year at a DRDO facility here when labourers were engaged in construction work in the compound, where a new building was to come up.

The NSG later diffused it under "controlled conditions" at its camp in Manesar near here. PTI SLB/VIT/NES SRY

--- ENDS ---
OTTAWA, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 01/28/17 -- CUPE Local 4055, which represents Sunwing's flight attendants, reached a tentative agreement with the employer today.

"The tentative agreement we reached improves our members' working conditions significantly. Therefore, the bargaining committee unanimously recommends ratification of the five-year deal", said CUPE Local 4055 President, Mark Brancelj.

No more details will be made public until the tentative agreement is presented to members. Membership meetings will be held across Canada shortly, and the ratification vote will follow.

Bargaining sessions with the assistance of a mediator started on January 26.

The flight attendants' collective agreement expired on May 31, 2016.

CUPE Local 4055 represents 1,000 flight attendants working at Sunwing's eight bases: Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, Halifax, Ottawa, Quebec City, and Winnipeg.

Contacts: Philippe Gagnon CUPE Media Relations 613 894-0146 [email protected]

Source: Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE)
 First treatment approved in five years for adolescents aged 13-17 years with schizophrenia 

MARLBOROUGH, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc. (Sunovion) today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the supplemental New Drug Application (sNDA) for Latuda (lurasidone HCI) for the treatment of schizophrenia in adolescents aged 13 to 17 years. LATUDA is also approved in the U.S. for the treatment of adults with schizophrenia and for the treatment of adults with major depressive episodes associated with bipolar I disorder (bipolar depression) as monotherapy and as adjunctive therapy with lithium or valproate.

This Smart News Release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170128005011/en/

U.S. FDA Approves Latuda (lurasidone HCl) for the Treatment of Schizophrenia in Adolescents (13-17 Years) (Photo: Business Wire)

The impact on development and poor prognosis frequently associated with schizophrenia that begins in adolescence underscores the need for treatment that is both well-tolerated and effective, said Robert Findling, M.D., M.B.A., Vice President of Psychiatric Services and Research at the Kennedy Krieger Institute, Director of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and a study investigator. The availability of LATUDA provides healthcare providers with an important new option for helping adolescents with this illness that is chronic and severely disabling.

The approval is based on results from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, six-week study in which adolescent patients with schizophrenia received fixed doses of LATUDA 40 mg/day, LATUDA 80 mg/day or placebo. At study endpoint, LATUDA 40 mg/day and 80 mg/day were associated with statistical and clinical improvement in symptoms of schizophrenia compared to placebo. LATUDA was also generally well tolerated with limited effects on weight and metabolic parameters.

We are pleased that LATUDAs range of indications has now expanded beyond the adult population to include the treatment of schizophrenia in adolescents aged 13 to 17 years. We believe that LATUDA, as the first such medication in five years approved for adolescent patients with schizophrenia, is an important new treatment option for this difficult to treat illness, said Antony Loebel, M.D., Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer at Sunovion, Head of Global Clinical Development for Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Group. This approval builds on and reflects our commitment to advancing the treatment of serious psychiatric illness.

The overall severity, impact on development and poor prognosis of adolescent schizophrenia highlight the need for early detection, prompt diagnosis and effective treatment.2 Adolescent schizophrenia has been characterized by a more severe onset of psychotic symptoms than adult-onset schizophrenia and is more likely to be preceded by social and developmental impairments.1,2 Additionally, delays to treatment from onset of psychotic symptoms may be two to three times longer for adolescents than adults and are associated with poorer treatment outcomes and response to treatment.3,4

Anyone seeking medical information, patient assistance and other information can access Sunovion Answers at LATUDA.com/answers or by calling 1-855-552-8832 Sunday through Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to midnight ET.

About Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a chronic, serious and often severely disabling brain disorder. Symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions usually start between ages 16 and 30.7 Other symptoms may include unusual or dysfunctional ways of thinking, agitated body movements, reduced expression of emotions and cognitive symptoms such as poor focus, memory or executive functioning.7

Although rare in young children, incidence of schizophrenia rises during adolescence and peaks in early adulthood.2 Adolescent schizophrenia is associated with poor functioning prior to the onset of illness and early developmental delays.2 Similar types of early developmental and social impairments have been reported in adult-onset schizophrenia, but appear to be more common and severe in adolescents.2 A diagnosis of schizophrenia in adolescence may be a predictor of less independence, poorer educational achievement, lower likelihood of employment or access to further education, higher global disability scores and poor social relationships in adulthood.8

About LATUDA

LATUDA is used to treat patients with:

Depressive episodes in bipolar I disorder (bipolar depression) when used alone or with lithium or valproate in adults

Schizophrenia in adults and adolescents 13 to 17 years of age

The efficacy of LATUDA was established in a 6-week monotherapy study and a 6-week adjunctive therapy study with lithium or valproate in adult patients with bipolar depression. The efficacy of LATUDA in schizophrenia was established in five 6-week controlled studies in adult patients and one 6-week placebo-controlled study in adolescents (13 to 17 years).

The most common side effects of LATUDA include sleepiness or drowsiness; restlessness or feeling like you need to move around (akathisia); difficulty moving, slow movements, muscle stiffness, or tremor; runny nose/nasal inflammation, and nausea.

LATUDA is available in five tablet strengths: 20 mg, 40 mg, 60 mg, 80 mg and 120 mg.

The effectiveness of LATUDA for longer-term use, that is, for more than 6 weeks, has not been established in controlled studies. Therefore, the physician who elects to use LATUDA for extended periods should periodically re-evaluate the long-term usefulness of the drug for the individual patient. The efficacy of LATUDA in the treatment of mania associated with bipolar disorder has not been established.

Please see Important Safety Information, including Boxed Warnings, below and full Prescribing Information at www.LATUDA.com.

Important Safety Information and Indications for LATUDA

INCREASED MORTALITY IN ELDERLY PATIENTS WITH DEMENTIA-RELATED PSYCHOSIS; and SUICIDAL THOUGHTS AND BEHAVIORS

Elderly people with dementia-related psychosis (having lost touch with reality due to confusion and memory loss) treated with this type of medicine are at an increased risk of death compared to patients receiving placebo (sugar pill). LATUDA is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis.

Antidepressant medicines may increase suicidal thoughts or behaviors in some children, teenagers, and young adults within the first few months of treatment. Depression and other serious mental illnesses are themselves associated with an increase in the risk of suicide. Patients on antidepressants and their families or caregivers should watch for new or worsening depression symptoms, especially sudden changes in mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings. This is very important when an antidepressant medicine is started or when the dose is changed. Report any change in these symptoms immediately to the doctor. LATUDA is not approved for use in pediatric patients with depression.

LATUDA can cause serious side effects, including stroke that can lead to death, which can happen in elderly people with dementia who take medicines like LATUDA.

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a rare but very serious condition that can happen in people who take antipsychotic medicines, including LATUDA. NMS can cause death and must be treated in a hospital. Call your health care provider right away if you become severely ill and have some or all of these symptoms: high fever, excessive sweating, rigid muscles, confusion, or changes in your breathing, heartbeat or blood pressure.

Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a serious and sometimes permanent side effect reported with LATUDA and similar medicines. Tell your doctor about any movements you cannot control in your face, tongue, or other body parts, as they may be signs of TD. TD may not go away, even if you stop taking LATUDA. TD may also start after you stop taking LATUDA.

Increases in blood sugar can happen in some people who take LATUDA. Extremely high blood sugar can lead to coma or death. If you have diabetes or risk factors for diabetes (such as being overweight or a family history of diabetes), your health care provider should check your blood sugar before you start LATUDA and during therapy. Call your health care provider if you have any of these symptoms of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) while taking LATUDA: feel very thirsty, need to urinate more than usual, feel very hungry, feel weak or tired, feel sick to your stomach, feel confused, or your breath smells fruity.

Increases in triglycerides and LDL (bad) cholesterol and decreases in HDL (good) cholesterol have been reported with LATUDA. You may not have any symptoms, so your health care provider may decide to check your cholesterol and triglycerides during your treatment with LATUDA.

Some patients may gain weight while taking LATUDA. Your doctor should check your weight regularly.

Tell your doctor if you experience any of these:

 feeling dizzy or light-headed upon standing

 decreases in white blood cells (which can be fatal)

 trouble swallowing

LATUDA and medicines like it may raise the level of prolactin. Tell your health care provider if you experience a lack of menstrual periods, leaking or enlarged breasts, or impotence.

Tell your health care provider if you have a seizure disorder, have had seizures in the past, or have conditions that increase your risk for seizures.

Tell your health care provider if you experience prolonged, abnormal muscle spasms or contractions, which may be a sign of a condition called dystonia.

LATUDA can affect your judgment, thinking, and motor skills. You should not drive or operate hazardous machinery until you know how LATUDA affects you.

LATUDA may make you more sensitive to heat. You may have trouble cooling off. Be careful when exercising or when doing things likely to cause dehydration or make you warm.

Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while you take LATUDA since these can affect the amount of LATUDA in the blood.

Tell your health care provider about all prescription and over-the-counter medicines you are taking or plan to take, since there are some risks for drug interactions with LATUDA. Tell your health care provider if you are allergic to any of the ingredients of LATUDA or take certain medications called CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers. Ask your health care provider if you are not sure if you are taking any of these medications.

Avoid drinking alcohol while taking LATUDA.

Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or if you are planning to get pregnant. Avoid breastfeeding while taking LATUDA.

The most common side effects of LATUDA include sleepiness or drowsiness; restlessness or feeling like you need to move around (akathisia); difficulty moving, slow movements, muscle stiffness, or tremor; runny nose/nasal inflammation, and nausea.

These are not all the possible side effects of LATUDA. For more information, ask your health care provider or pharmacist.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call l-800-FDA-1088.

About Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc. (Sunovion)

Sunovion is a global biopharmaceutical company focused on the innovative application of science and medicine to help people with serious medical conditions. Sunovions vision is to lead the way to a healthier world. The companys spirit of innovation is driven by the conviction that scientific excellence paired with meaningful advocacy and relevant education can improve lives. With patients at the center of everything it does, Sunovion has charted new paths to life-transforming treatments that reflect ongoing investments in research and development and an unwavering commitment to support people with psychiatric, neurological and respiratory conditions. Sunovions track record of discovery, development and commercialization of important therapies has included Brovana (arformoterol tartrate), Latuda (lurasidone HCI), and most recently Aptiom (eslicarbazepine acetate).

Headquartered in Marlborough, Mass., Sunovion is an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Co., Ltd. Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Europe Ltd., based in London, England, Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc., based in Mississauga, Ontario, and Sunovion CNS Development Canada ULC, based in Toronto, Ontario, are wholly-owned direct subsidiaries of Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc. Additional information can be found on the companys web sites: www.sunovion.com, www.sunovion.eu and www.sunovion.ca. Connect with Sunovion on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.

About Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Co., Ltd.

Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma is among the top-ten listed pharmaceutical companies in Japan operating globally in major pharmaceutical markets, including Japan, the United States, China and the European Union. Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma aims to create innovative pharmaceutical products in the Psychiatry & Neurology area and the Oncology area, which have been designated as the focus therapeutic areas. Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma is based on the merger in 2005 between Dainippon Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., and Sumitomo Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd. Today, Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma has about 7,000 employees worldwide. Additional information about Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma is available through its corporate website at www.ds-pharma.com.

BROVANA is a registered trademark of Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc.LATUDA is a registered trademark of Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Co., Ltd.APTIOM is used under license from BIAL.

Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc. is a U.S. subsidiary of Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Co., Ltd. 2017 Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc.

For a copy of this release, visit Sunovions web site at www.sunovion.com

References1 Veru F, et al. Schizophr Res. 2016; 174(1-3):183-188.2 Hollis, C. BJPsych Advances. 2015; 21:333341.3 Dominguez MD, Fisher HL, Major B, et al. Schizophr Res. 2013; 150:526-532.4 Perkins et al. Am J Psychiatry, 2005:162(10); 1785-18045Vitiello B, et al. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol. 2009; 19(9):629-635.6 Correll CU, Carlson HE. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry. 2006; 45(7):771-791.7 National Institute of Mental Health. Schizophrenia. [Internet]. Available from: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/schizophrenia/index.shtml. Accessed January 2017.8 Hollis, C. Am J Psychiatry. 2000; 157:1652-1659.

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170128005011/en/

Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc.

Kristina Coppola, 508-787-4368

Sr. Manager, Corporate Communications

[email protected]

Source: Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Deer gather at a depot used to store pipes for Transcanada Corp's planned Keystone XL oil pipeline in Gascoyne, North Dakota, January 25, 2017. REUTERS/Terray Sylvester

By Devika Krishna Kumar and Catherine Ngai

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Investors have rushed back into North American pipelines after U.S. President Donald Trump revived growth prospects in a sector that struggled to cope with a two-year oil price slump and strident opposition from environmental and Native American activists.

Investor confidence in the industry was shaken last year when the administration of former President Barack Obama halted the $3.8 billion Dakota Access Pipeline, just as Energy Transfer Partners (NYSE: ETP) had nearly finished building it. Protesters have rallied for months against plans to route the Dakota Access pipeline under a lake near the Standing Rock Sioux reservation in North Dakota, saying it threatened water resources and sacred Native American sites.

A year earlier, Obama rejected TransCanada Corp's (NYSE: TRP) C$8 billion ($6.08 billion) Keystone XL project, which would ship oil from Canada to U.S. refiners.

Trump sought to smooth the way for both projects with executive orders on Tuesday as he made good on campaign promises to drive infrastructure investment throughout the world's largest economy.

The orders sparked a rally in indices that track pipeline companies to a more than 14-month high.

The shares of firms that build the pipelines and storage tanks such as Magellan Midstream Partners (NYSE: MMP) and Enterprise Products Partners (NYSE: EPD) have rallied as much as 9 percent in the days following Trump's orders.

Those gains came on top of a rally of about 13 percent in these firms since Trump's surprise election victory on Nov. 8.

"Energy companies can invest more confidently over the next four years with less concern over federal delays," said Libby Toudouze, a portfolio manager at Cushing Asset Management. The firm manages around $2.7 billion of investments in pipeline and energy transport and storage firms.

"I do think we are going to see a good consistent flow of new investors coming into this (pipeline) space for next 3-5 years."

The top picks for investors include Valero Energy Partners LP (NYSE: VLP), Phillips 66 Partners LP (NYSE: PSXP) and MPLX LP (NYSE: MPLX).

Energy infrastructure companies, once a darling of the industry, had languished in 2015 and early 2016 as oil prices plummeted to multiyear lows.

These firms, often structured as master limited partnerships (MLPs), are typically the vehicles used by investors to gain exposure to the pipeline industry.

MLPs are a tax-exempt corporate structures that pay out profit to investors in dividend-style distributions. Investors have funneled billions of dollars into the infrastructure industry through them since the shale boom began.

BLISTERING RALLY

The Alerian MLP index , which tracks a number of pipeline firms including Magellan, Enterprise, Energy Transfer Partners and Plains All American Pipeline LP (NYSE: PAA), has risen more than 17 percent since Trump's election, including a 6 percent rally this week to the highest level since November 2015.

The pipeline sector has outperformed both oil and gas producers and the S&P 500 index , which have risen about 13 percent and 7.5 percent, respectively, since the U.S. election.

"You don't have to take a lot of risk in the MLP space at this point to make outsized returns ... so it's an interesting time and a unique opportunity in the MLP space," said Matt Sallee, a portfolio manager at Tortoise Capital.

The Alerian index rose 9 percent in 2016 as oil prices rose, OPEC and non-OPEC exporters announced supply cuts, and on Trump's election. That came after a crash of more than a third in 2015.

Mutual and exchange traded funds' investment in MLPs crashed to $3.8 billion in 2015 before recovering to about $6.2 billion last year, according to Morningstar.

The revival in U.S. shale activity sparked by the recovery in oil prices has also given pipeline companies a boost and opened the way to further development. Significant challenges remain - activists plan to take their fight to the courts on a state-by-state basis, which could bog down future developments.

But for now, investors see room for the value of pipeline firms to go higher.

"We think drilling is going to expand in the U.S. and will need plenty of new infrastructure, particularly in the Permian Basin," said Jay Hatfield, portfolio manager of the InfraCap MLP ETF. MLPs were around 60 percent undervalued compared with BBB bonds which usually fetch the same yield, he added.

Already, pipeline companies such as Plains All American have announced large deals and expansions in the Permian, the biggest shale play in the United States.

"Production is getting back to the growth mode," said Toudouze, "so we need to have the infrastructure and these are the companies that are going to build it."

(Reporting by Devika Krishna Kumar and Catherine Ngai in New York; Editing by Simon Webb and Matthew Lewis)
FILE PHOTO - A general view of the international arrival terminal at JFK airport in New York October 11, 2014. REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz/File Photo

By Yeganeh Torbati, Jeff Mason and Mica Rosenberg

WASHINGTON/NEW YORK (Reuters) - President Donald Trump's order to restrict people from seven Muslim-majority countries from entering the United States sparked confusion and anger on Saturday after immigrants and refugees were kept off flights and left stranded in airports.

In his most sweeping decision since taking office a week ago, Trump, a Republican, put a four-month hold on allowing refugees into the United States and temporarily barred travelers from Syria and six other countries.

Civil rights and faith groups, activists and Democratic politicians were furious and vowed to fight the order.

Capping a day of confusion and chaos and protests in several airports across the country, a federal judge in Brooklyn, New York, granted a temporary reprieve. The American Civil Liberties Union successfully argued for a temporary stay that allowed detained travelers to stay in the United States.

Supporters outside the Brooklyn courtroom and at protests at airports in Dallas, Chicago, New York and elsewhere cheered the decision, but a bigger fight lay ahead.

The court action does not reverse Trump's order, which was criticized by some of America's closest allies.

Trump, a businessman who successfully tapped into American fears about terror attacks during his campaign, had promised what he called "extreme vetting" of immigrants and refugees from areas the White House said the U.S. Congress deemed to be high risk.

He told reporters in the White House's Oval Office on Saturday that his order was "not a Muslim ban" and said the measures were long overdue.

"It's working out very nicely. You see it at the airports, you see it all over," Trump said.

Along with Syria, the ban affects travelers with passports from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

The Department of Homeland Security said about 375 travelers had been affected by the order, 109 of whom were in transit and were denied entry to the United States. Another 173 were stopped by airlines before boarding.

The order "affects a minor portion of international travelers," the department said in a statement, saying the measures "inconvenienced" less than 1 percent of travelers.

The new rules blindsided people in transit and families waiting for them, and caused havoc for businesses with employees holding passports from the targeted nations and colleges with international students.

Pegah Rahmani, 25, waited at Washington's Dulles airport for several hours for her grandparents, both Iranian citizens with U.S. green cards. "They weren't treating them very well," she said.

Rahmani's grandfather is 88 and legally blind. Her grandmother is 83 and recently had a stroke. They were released to loud cheers and cries.

'TIP OF THE SPEAR'

Several Democratic governors said they were examining whether they could launch legal challenges, and other groups eyed a constitutional challenge claiming religious discrimination.

"I don't think anyone is going to take this lying down," said Cleveland immigration lawyer David Leopold. "This is the tip of the spear and more litigation is coming."

The White House did not respond immediately to a request for comment.

The Department of Homeland Security said the order would stay in place.

"No foreign national in a foreign land, without ties to the United States, has any unfettered right to demand entry into the United States," the department statement said.

Mark Krikorian, the director of the conservative Center for Immigration Studies, called lawsuits challenging the order "last ditch efforts" that would only apply to a few individuals, and he said a broader constitutional argument would be hard to win.

"The first amendment doesn't apply to foreigners living abroad. The law explicitly says the president can exclude any person or class of people he wants," Krikorian said.

Some leaders from the U.S. technology industry, a major employer of foreign workers, issued warnings to their staff and called the order immoral and un-American.

"This ban will impact many innocent people," said Travis Kalanick, chief executive of Uber Technologies Inc UBER.UL, who said he would raise the issue at a White House meeting on Friday.

Arab travelers in the Middle East and North Africa said the order was humiliating and discriminatory. Iran vowed to retaliate.

Sudan called the action "very unfortunate" after Washington lifted sanctions on the country just weeks ago for cooperation on combating terrorism. A Yemeni official expressed dismay at the ban.

Iraq's former ambassador to the United States, Lukman Faily, told Reuters that Trump's ban was unfair to a country that itself has been a victim of terror attacks, and could backfire.

"We have a strong partnership with U.S., more so in the urgent fight against terrorism. This ban move will not help, and people will start questioning the bond of this partnership, Faily said.

Allies in the United Kingdom, France and Germany were critical. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted a photo of himself welcoming Syrian refugees.

GREEN CARD CONFUSION

Confusion abounded at airports as immigration and customs officials struggled to interpret the new rules. Some legal residents with green cards who were in the air when the order was issued were detained at airports upon arrival.

However, senior administration officials said it would have been "reckless" to broadcast details of the order in advance.

Other officials said green card holders from the affected countries would require extra screening and would be cleared on a case-by-case basis.

Airlines were blindsided and some cabin crew were barred from entering the country.

Travelers were handled differently at different points of entry and immigration lawyers advised clients to change their destination to the more lenient airports, said Houston immigration lawyer Mana Yegani.

At Chicago OHare International Airport, brothers Bardia and Ayden Noohi waited for four hours for their father Kasra Noohi - who has an Iranian passport and a U.S. green card - to be allowed through.

They knew Trump had pledged tougher rules but did not expect the problems. "I didnt think hed actually do it," Bardia Noohi, 32, said. "A lot of politicians just talk."

Thousands of refugees seeking entry were thrown into limbo. Melanie Nezer of the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society said she knew of roughly 2,000 who were booked to come to the United States next week.

Trump's order indefinitely bans refugees from Syria. In a television interview, he said he would seek to prioritize Christian refugees fleeing the war-torn country.

U.S. officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said they were not consulted on the action and in some cases only learned the details as they were made public.

At the State Department, a senior official said lawyers were working to interpret the executive order, which allows entry to people affected by the order when it is in the "national interest."

However, a federal law enforcement official said: "It's unclear at this point what the threshold of national interest is."

(Reporting by Yara Bayoumy, Jeff Mason, Roberta Rampton, Doina Chiacu, Lesley Wroughton, Yeganeh Torbati in Washington; Mica Rosenberg, Jonathan Allen, Melissa Fares, Daniel Trotta and David Ingram in New York; Robert Chiarito in Chicago; Brendan O'Brien in Milwaukee; Lisa Maria Garza in Dallas; Alissa Greenberg, Joseph Menn, Julia Love and Kristina Cook in San Francisco; Jeffrey Dastin in Redwood City, California; Alex Dobuzinskis and Daina Beth Solomon in Los Angeles; Khalid Abdelaziz in Khartoum; Parisa Hafezi in Dubai; Andrea Hopkins, Anna Mehler Paperny in Toronto; Writing by Doina Chiacu and Roberta Rampton; Editing by Grant Mary Milliken, Bill Rigby and Paul Tait)
FILE PHOTO: An internally displaced Syrian boy plays with a wheel in Jrzinaz camp, in the southern part of Idlib, Syria, June 21, 2016. REUTERS/Khalil Ashawi/File Photo

By Phil Stewart

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Donald Trump's push to create safe zones in Syria could force him to make some risky decisions about how far to go to protect refugees, including shooting down Syrian or Russian aircraft or committing thousands of U.S. troops, experts said.

Trump said on Wednesday he "will absolutely do safe zones in Syria" for refugees fleeing violence. According to a document seen by Reuters, he is expected in the coming days to order the Pentagon and the State Department to draft a plan to create such zones in Syria and nearby nations.

The document did not spell out what would make a safe zone "safe" and whether it would protect refugees only from threats on the ground - such as jihadist fighters - or whether Trump envisions a no-fly zone policed by America and its allies.

If it is a no-fly zone, without negotiating some agreement with Russia Trump would have to decide whether to give the U.S. military the authority to shoot down Syrian or Russian aircraft if they posed a threat to people in that zone, which his predecessor, former President Barack Obama, refused to do.

"This essentially boils down to a willingness to go to war to protect refugees," said Jim Phillips, a Middle East expert at the Heritage Foundation think-tank in Washington, noting Russia's advanced air defenses.

Trump promised during his campaign to target jihadists from Islamic State, and he has sought to avoid being dragged deeper into Syria's conflict - raising the question of whether he might be satisfied by assurances, perhaps from Moscow, that neither Russian nor Syrian jets would target the zone.

In Moscow, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Trump did not consult with Russia and warned that the consequences of such a plan "ought to be weighed up."

"It is important that this (the plan) does not exacerbate the situation with refugees," he said.

Phillips and other experts, including former U.S. officials, said many refugees would not be satisfied by assurances from Moscow, while any deal with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, who also is backed by Iran, might not go over well with America's Arab allies.

The Pentagon declined comment on Thursday, saying no formal directive to develop such plans had been handed down yet, and some U.S. military officials appeared unaware of the document before seeing it described in the media on Wednesday.

"Our department right now is tasked with one thing in Syria, and that is to degrade and defeat ISIS," said Captain Jeff Davis, a Pentagon spokesman.

TENS OF THOUSANDS OF TROOPS

Trump's call for a plan for safe zones is part of a larger directive expected to be signed in coming days that includes a temporary ban on most refugees to the United States and a suspension of visas for citizens of Syria and six other Middle Eastern and African countries deemed to pose a terrorism threat.

During and after the presidential campaign, Trump called for no-fly zones to harbor Syrian refugees as an alternative to allowing them into the United States. Trump accused the Obama administration of failing to screen Syrian immigrants entering the United States to ensure they had no militant ties.

Any safe zone in Syria guaranteed by the United States would almost certainly require some degree of U.S. military protection. Securing the ground alone would require thousands of troops, former U.S. officials and experts say.

Anthony Cordesman, a military expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies think tank, cautioned that a safe zone inside Syria could become a diplomatic albatross that would force a Trump administration to juggle a host of ethnic and political tensions in Syria indefinitely.

Other experts said jihadists could be attracted to the zone, either to carry out attacks that would embarrass the United States or to use the zone as a safe haven where militants could regroup.

Such a zone also would be expensive, given the need to house, feed, educate and provide medical care to the refugees.

"I think these people really have no idea what it takes to support 25,000 people, which is really a small number, in terms of the (internally displaced) and refugees" in Syria, Cordesman said.

The draft document gave no details on what would constitute a safe zone, where one might be set up and who would defend it.

Jordan, Turkey and other neighboring countries already host millions of Syrian refugees. The Turkish government pressed Obama, without success, to create a no-fly zone on Syria's border with Turkey but now is at odds with Washington over its support for Kurdish fighters in Syria.

(Reporting by Phil Stewart; additional reporting by Rodrigo Campos; editing by John Walcott and Cynthia Osterman)
UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

SCHEDULE 14A

PROXY STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 14(a) OF THE SECURITIES

EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

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Check the appropriate box:

 Preliminary Proxy Statement  Confidential, for Use of the Commission Only (as permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2))  Definitive Proxy Statement  Definitive Additional Materials  Soliciting Material Pursuant to  240.14a-12

WGL Holdings Inc.

(Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)

AltaGas Ltd.

(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if Other Than the Registrant)

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 No fee required.  Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(1) and 0-11. (1) Title of each class of securities to which transaction applies: (2) Aggregate number of securities to which transaction applies: (3) Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction computed pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (set forth the amount on which the filing fee is calculated and state how it was determined): (4) Proposed maximum aggregate value of transaction: (5) Total fee paid:  Fee paid previously with preliminary materials.  Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange Act Rule 0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting fee was paid previously. Identify the previous filing by registration statement number, or the Form or Schedule and the date of its filing. (1) Amount Previously Paid: (2) Form, Schedule or Registration Statement No.: (3) Filing Party: (4) Date Filed:

On January 25, 2017, AltaGas Ltd. (AltaGas) held an investor conference call to discuss the announcement of AltaGas entry into a definitive merger agreement to acquire WGL Holdings, Inc. A transcript of the call is provided below.

ALTAGAS LTD. TO ACQUIRE WGL HOLDINGS, INC. M&A CALL

CORPORATE PARTICIPANTS

Jess Nieukerk AltaGas Ltd.  Senior Director Investor Relations

David Harris AltaGas Ltd.  President & CEO

Terry McCallister WGL Holdings, Inc.  Chairman, CEO

Tim Watson AltaGas Ltd.  Executive Vice President & CFO

PRESENTATION

Operator

Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen, and welcome to the AltaGas conference call and webcast. I would now like to turn the meeting over to Jess Nieukerk, Senior Director, Investor Relations. Please go ahead, Mr. Nieukerk.

Jess Nieukerk  AltaGas Ltd.  Senior Director Investor Relations

Thank you. Good afternoon and thank you everyone, for joining us today to discuss AltaGas acquisition of WGL announced earlier this afternoon. My name is Jess Nieukerk. I am the Senior Director, Investor Relations for AltaGas. On the call today we have David Harris, President and CEO of AltaGas, Tim Watson, Chief Financial Officer of AltaGas and Terry McCallister, Chief Executive Officer of WGL Holdings. The speakers will be making reference to a presentation prepared in respect of this transaction, which is being webcast, and is also available for download on our website and filed on SEDAR.

I would like to note that on this call we will provide forward-looking statements and future-oriented financial information. Certain material factors and assumptions underpin the forecasts and projections to be discussed on this call and they are subject to important risks and uncertainties. I direct you to review the cautionary advisories in the January 25, 2017 news release and the Companys reports filed with the Canadian securities regulators which contain additional information about the applicable risk factors and assumptions. I would also note that we will not have a question-and-answer period following the formal remarks.

Finally, I would also like to point out that during this presentation we will refer to certain non-GAAP financial measures. These measures do not have any standardized meaning under GAAP and as a result they may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other entities.

With that, let me turn the call over to David Harris.

David Harris  AltaGas Ltd.  President & CEO

Thank you, Jess. I am thrilled to be here today to speak to you about this seminal event in AltaGas history. Before we start, I would like to personally thank Terry, the WGL Board of Directors and the entire WGL team who have worked tremendously hard. We share a lot of similarities with WGL and have spent a lot of time working with the management team to make this transaction happen and ensuring that both WGL and AltaGas emerge from this as a strengthened company. I would also like to thank my team, including our Board of Directors, management, senior leaders and advisors, all of whom were critical in getting us to this point and will be critical to helping us deliver on our vision for the Company going forward. I think I can speak on Terrys behalf and say we are both pleased to present the details of this strategic transaction between our respective companies. With respect to the presentation, I will lead you through much of the presentation and Tim and Terry will step in at the appropriate time to walk you through certain aspects of the transaction.

With that, please turn to slide five, Im going to start with an overview of the transaction. As discussed in the press release issued this afternoon, the Board of Directors of AltaGas and WGL have each unanimously approved a transaction whereby AltaGas will acquire all of the issued and outstanding shares of WGL for $88.25 per share, payable in cash. This offer price represents a premium 12% to WGLs share price as of close on Tuesday and premium of 28% to WGLs share price on November 28, 2016 of $69.02. The date prior to the reports, it surfaced that a third party was in discussions to acquire WGL. The offer price implies an equity value for WGL of C$6 billion and a total transaction value of C$8.4 billion. We are fortunate to be acquiring a historic company with nearly 170 years of history, which in many ways is the mirror image of AltaGas, a diversified energy infrastructure company with gas utilities in three high-growth jurisdictions, a growing gas midstream business, adding a new platform for AltaGas to grow in the Marcellus and clean power areas. This transaction is highly transformational for our company by increasing both our scale and breadth of quality assets while maintaining our corporate DNA. The combined company will have approximately C$22 billion in assets. At the same time, this transaction is consistent with our strategy of focusing on high-quality, long-lived energy infrastructure assets, which have significant embedded growth, leveraging our

track records of developing projects on time and on budget to drive our future growth and deliver long-term value for our shareholders. As part of this strategy is a strong credit profile. We are financing this transaction in a way that is consistent with our commitment to maintain our strong investment-grade credit profile, which Tim Watson will touch on later.

Moving over to slide six, it is because of this increased scale, strategic overlap and exceptional growth profile that we expect the transaction to provide meaningful financial benefits for our company and shareholders. We expect it to be meaningfully accretive to EPS in the 8% to 10% range and normalized FFO per share of 15% to 20% in average through 2021. With this transaction we are committed to delivering an 8% to 10% annual dividend growth through 2021.

What is critical to remember is that this dividend is underpinned by a balanced mix of very stable cash flows, approximately 75% of expected pro forma normalized EBITDA contributions from rate regulated gas utilities, Northeast BC hydro and contracted take-or-pay/cost-of-service midstream assets, which underpins strong credit ratings and dividend instability. Combined with the enhanced growth profile in all three businesses of the combined company, we expect this stability to help deliver further growth and value to shareholders over the long term.

With respect to financing, we believe we have developed the optimal financing plan for this transaction with the help of our advisors. We have a C$6.6 billion fully committed bridge financing from JPMorgan, TD and RBC. Concurrent with this announcement, we have executed a C$2.1 billion subscription receipt, bought deal public offering and a C$400 million subscription receipt private placement with Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System or OMERS. These subscription receipts have the dividend equivalent payment structure, which pays holders of the receipts the same dividend that our common shareholders receive. We are pleased to have worked with OMERS on this important transaction and view very positively their interest in participating. We think it speaks loudly to the overall benefits this transaction can have for our shareholders. We look forward to working with them as a long-term shareholder of our company going forward.

Finishing off on the financing, we expect the balance of our financing needs to be fulfilled with a combination of preferred equity, hybrid securities, long-term debt and asset sales. Overall with respect to timing, we anticipate closing will be by the end of the second quarter of 2018, which is subject to WGL shareholder approval and required regulatory approvals.

As per slide seven, we view WGL as an ideal fit for AltaGas. There are five elements of overall strategic rationale that we wanted to highlight. This combination is consistent with AltaGas long-term strategy of growing as a diversified, high-quality, low-risk energy infrastructure company. This merger will have a dramatic effect on the scale of our company. When combined, we will have C$7.3 billion pipeline of identified capital investment opportunities across all business lines. Upon close, AltaGas will be even more stable, with high-quality cash flows underpinned by long-term take-or-pay contracts and rate regulated franchises. This will reinforce a strong investment-grade profile.

The combination offers increased scale and diversification of high-growth utilities. The transaction diversifies AltaGas midstream business, adding a high-growth Marcellus/Utica growth platform in addition to AltaGas existing Northeast BC/West Coast LPG export strategy. Although this transaction will increase AltaGas exposure to utilities and to US markets in the very near term, we fundamentally look forward to maintaining a balanced business and geographic mix over the long term. Our core premise is that market diversity allows AltaGas to uniquely take advantage of the broader energy markets as they evolve. Last, we fully intend to capitalize on the strong culture and strategic overlap between our companies. This transaction provides the opportunity to leverage respective core competencies and a deep bench of talented personnel.

Turning to slide eight, this map of our pro forma operations probably speaks for itself. The transaction further positions AltaGas as a leading North American energy infrastructure company. WGL is a multi-jurisdictional energy infrastructure company. It has utility operations in Maryland, Virginia and Washington DC. We fully intend to capitalize on WGLs US utility by preserving employee levels at WGL and bringing the US headquarters to the region. The Company also owns midstream investments in the Marcellus and Utica basin. WGL owns a diversified clean power and energy efficiency business, operating in 20 states. Lastly, WGL operates an electric and gas marketing business in the Northeast. We are excited to leverage the combined strength of both organizations to expand the breadth and depth of our investment opportunities set across three business lines and across North America.

Flipping to slide nine, you can see the amount of overlap between our business segments. We diligently assessed this combination with WGL and see it as a compelling match. This transaction substantially adds to the Companys midstream CapEx schedule. We will be growing in two of North Americas most exciting gas plays and will be connected to not one but three energy export sites. As you can see from the graph in the top right of the slide, this will provide very significant contributions in the next two to three years. The combination doubles AltaGas utility business rate base, triples our customers and most importantly, diversifies the utility exposure to eight jurisdictions. Lastly, this transaction provides us with a broader power presence in multiple new US regions, which will provide us with unique market intelligence to make our next contracted power investments.

Turning to slide 10, in addition to the undeniable strategic fit, there is of course strong financial support for this combination. The combined company is expected to have total assets in excess of C$22 billion, generate over C$1.3 billion of EBITDA, have over C$7.3 billion of identified growth opportunities, have total utility customers of approximately 1.7 million and a rate base of approximately C$4.5 billion. We expect the pro forma company will have higher growth on an absolute dollar value and per-share basis.

We see immediate EPS accretion in the first full year of operations of 7% to 9% and averaging 8% to 10% through 2021. We also see immediate funds from operations per share accretion to over 20% in the first full year of operations and averaging 15% to 20% through 2021. We are targeting to grow our dividend by 8% to 10% in the first year after close through at least 2021. In short, WGL fundamentally enhances AltaGas existing shareholder proposition. We will continue to offer our shareholders the same attractive exposure to North America energy infrastructure while rewarding shareholders with stronger dividend growth.

With that, I would like to turn over to Terry to provide an overview of WGL.

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Terry McCallister  WGL Holdings, Inc.  Chairman, CEO

Thanks, Dave. First, let me say how excited we are combining these two great companies. We believe this new combined company will provide tremendous opportunities for all of our stakeholders.

Turning to slide 11, for those of you who dont know WGL, it is a company that was founded over 160 years ago. We are headquartered in Washington DC and our area of operations are focused in Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia. WGLs publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker WGL. WGL has several business lines, including a regulated utility business, a midstream business, a commercial energy services business and a retail energy marketing business. With respect to its regulated business, WGL is the parent company of the Washington Gas Light Company, a regulated natural gas local distribution company, which was founded and chartered by Congress in 1848 to put a gaslight on top of the United States Capitol and now serves more than 1.1 million customers in the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia. WGL has developed a unique commercial energy platform which allows us to develop a renewable energy and provide energy efficiency services all across the nation. WGL Midstream has a unique footprint in the Marcellus/Utica gas production area which allows it to connect supply with demand in one of the fastest growing regions in North America. Lastly, our retail business provides residential, business and government customers with options to purchase gas and electric energy solutions to our third-party provider.

David Harris  AltaGas Ltd.  President & CEO

Thank you, Terry. Turning to slide 12, you can see the long-term profile of the combined entity. Starting from left to right, you can see how together we offer a higher pro forma growth with a focus on stable businesses and significant organic growth. First of all, WGL nearly doubles AltaGas current EBITDA providing a strong base upon which the combined company can grow. Moving to the right on the slide, you will notice our near-term C$7.3 billion identified growth platform consists of a balance of opportunities. We expect to have several midstream projects  those are the blue boxes  becoming operational through 2019. This will drive strong growth in the next few years. In addition to this, we have a steady wedge of utility and power spending expected over the same timeframe  these are reflected in the green and yellow bars. Overall, we expect to have a balanced mix of energy infrastructure growth projects in utility, midstream and power and see the long-term target mix of our business as a relatively balanced combination of midstream, power and utility. It is these growth opportunities that will in part help drive the accretive nature of this deal and our commitment to delivering 8% to 10% dividend growth through 2021.

Turning over to slide 13 now, here we have tried to highlight how the combination supports our long-term vision for AltaGas. In particular, with respect to our midstream business, while AltaGas midstream business is currently focused on the prolific Montney play, with this transaction we will be adding significant exposure to the Marcellus and Utica basins through WGLs investments into four key pipelines in the region. These include Stonewall, Central Penn, Constitution and Mountain Valley.

Stonewall gathering system is located in West Virginia and is designed to gather 1.4 Bcf per day. WGL owns 35% of the operating system which currently gathers 1 Bcf per day.

Central Penn pipeline is designed to transport 1.7 Bcf per day as part of the Atlantic sunrise project. WGL owns 21% of the pipeline. Its target in-service date is mid-2018.

Valley Midstream is designed to transport 2 Bcf per day from West Virginia to Virginia. WGL owns 10% of the pipeline. Its targeted in-service date is December 2018.

Constitution pipeline is designed to transport 700 Mmcf per day to major northeastern markets. WGL owns 10% of the pipeline. Its targeted in-service date is in the second half of 2018.

In addition to its invest in these four pipelines, WGL has a strategic relationship position with respect to the Cove Point LNG Export Facility through its contact with GAIL, through which WGL has agreed to sell GAIL up to 400 Mmcf per day for approximately 20 years. Overall we will be investing in projects that will be touching upward of 6 Bcf per day of gas in the Marcellus and Utica basins. This forms an exceptional footprint for AltaGas to repeat the success of its regional midstream strategy which we continue to develop upon in Northeast BC. On a combined basis, we will be investing C$2 billion in two of the most exciting gas basins in North America. Not only will we provide critical infrastructure to three export sites but we will also have a large enough presence in both regions to leverage and expand our growth potential. We view each of these midstream businesses as attractive opportunities and in line with our objective of investing in long-term stable midstream assets.

Turning to slide 14, our combined utility segment will have even more significant position across a stronger and more diversified footprint. We will be adding to our current portfolio a diversified, high-growth US gas utility operating in one of the US key population centers, that is, the broader Washington DC metropolitan area. Each of WGLs jurisdictions offers a compelling opportunity driven by customer growth, accelerated replacement programs and rate cases. WGL is also focused on an asset optimization program to boost ROE and profitability that will see us very attractive going forward.

Turning now to slide 15, we wanted to help quantify for you how transformative this combination is for our utility business. Pro forma from the transaction, our estimated rate base immediately more than doubles and our estimated customers more than triples providing significant scale to our combined utility business. Furthermore, we will be operating in eight jurisdictions which will help minimize concentration risk from any single utility. Lastly, with over $3 billion of spending planned over the next five years, driven by customer growth and accelerated placements, we expect to continue to grow this business.

Moving to slide 16, I want to focus on the combined power generation business. As you know, AltaGas currently has a significant power generation footprint across the US and Canada, comprised of a combination of traditional natural gas, combustion-based generation assets, as well as significant renewable assets across hydro, wind and biomass plus our exciting new battery storage initiatives. WGLs power generation assets are a great fit with our portfolio, as they are focused on clean energy solutions to provide stable, utility-like cash flows through long-term contracts. WGLs power assets include investments in solar, combined heat and gas distributed generation in 20 states with a total of 211 MW of gross capacity. This will be

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complementary to AltaGas current leading North America portfolio and will provide us with incremental market intelligence to where to invest next. We fully intend to capitalize on our core competencies related to the development of renewable power as we plan to continue meeting the growing needs of WGLs customers.

Now I will pass it over to our Chief Financial Officer, Tim Watson, to walk through the financing of the transaction.

Tim Watson  AltaGas Ltd.  EVP & CFO

Thank you, Dave. Turning to slide 17, we wanted to provide some details regarding the benefits afforded by the combined companies scale to deliver growth. We have provided a breakdown by segment on the bottom right of this slide which demonstrates our commitment to spending and growth in each of our business lines. Over the next five years, the total capital program for the combined company will be in excess of C$7 billion or approximately C$1.4 billion per year on average. Just under 50% of the CapEx will be with our combined utility franchises; however, a little more than 50%  in fact, about C$3.8 billion  will be with identified visible midstream and power projects that are currently in our portfolio that we are working on.

The rest of the slide, as you can see, show specific project details for both AltaGas and WGL individually. As you can clearly see, our intention is to maintain a diversified business mix for years to come.

Turning to the next slide, which is slide 18, I would start by reiterating that our financing plan is designed to maintain a strong investment-grade profile for the combined company over the long term. As you may have seen and as discussed earlier today on this call, concurrent with this announcement we announced a C$2.1 billion public bought deal and a C$400 million private placement with OMERS. This equity is a key component of our long-term financing and we expect to fund the remainder of the purchase price with a combination of asset sales from AltaGas existing portfolio, incremental debt, preferred shares and hybrid securities.

We believe there are a number of attractive actionable opportunities to monetize portions of our three businesses in a manner which supports our long-term strategy of growing in attractive areas and maintaining a long-term balanced mix of energy infrastructure. AltaGas has a $2 billion portion of our bridge facilities, which is allocated to cover asset sales which would be available for up to 18 months following closing of the transaction. Furthermore, we look forward to our ongoing growth CapEx in a manner that is consistent with how AltaGas has funded its growth in the past. This deals accretion will help us reduce overall payout ratios. Our DRIP will reward shareholders for continuing to support the business and we look forward to accessing new capital markets opportunities in the US, as well as relying on our tried and true Canadian capital markets access. We expect that the combined company will have a strong BBB mid credit rating from credit rating agencies on closing.

Turning to slide 19, we wanted to spend some time talking about the expected timeline for the transaction. In addition to the financing of the transaction there are a number of customary filings and approvals that we will need in order to complete the transaction. AltaGas looks forward to meeting and engaging with the regulators as we seek their approvals. WGLs management has a very strong relationship with the regulators. We have extensive experience in state regulatory approval processes and believe that we bring a compelling proposition as a responsible utility operator committed to maintaining a strong local presence in all of our service territories. The transaction is also subject to the approvals of WGL shareholders, which is expected in a rough mid-2017 timeframe. The final transaction closing is expected by the end of the second quarter of 2018.

With that, Ill turn it back over to Dave.

David Harris  AltaGas Ltd.  President & CEO

Thank you, Tim. Turning to slide 20, here at AltaGas we share a very strong commitment to WGLs customers, employees and communities. We are thrilled that the WGL senior leadership team is available to assist in the management of AltaGas Ltd.s US regulated utility business. The headquarters of WGL will remain in Washington DC, as we think it is a great addition and the best approach for us to retain best-in-class management expertise. Our approach to WGLs communities will, of course, be no different. We are in complete alignment with Terry and the entire WGL management team of the benefits of maintaining the Companys historic levels of community involvement, charitable contributions and local support within existing service territories. Furthermore, we are committed to maintaining WGLs current employee headcount and distinguished corporate culture.

Turning now to slide 21, I wanted to conclude the formal remarks to summarize why we are so excited about this transaction and the opportunity we feel it provides our company and shareholders. First, we share a common culture rooted in providing quality customer service through safe and reliable operations. Second, AltaGas and WGL have highly capable business lines with utilities, midstream and contracted power. Third, the combination of our businesses creates a leading North American player with over C$22 billion of combined assets. Fourth, the transaction allows AltaGas to diversify our operations into three new utility jurisdictions and total exposure to over 30 states and provinces. Fifth, the pro forma entity will have a substantial opportunity for continued growth and we are again committed to growing our dividend by 8% to 10% through 2021. Sixth, we expect the transaction will be meaningfully accretive across a key cash flow and earnings matrix for the next several years following closing. Last, the combined company will have a significantly increased combination of stable, high-quality assets and investment-grade balance sheet. We expect all of these factors will translate into significant value for our shareholders in the near, mid and long term. We are excited for the prospects of our company for years to come. This is truly a transformative and great transaction for AltaGas and WGL.

With that, that is the end of our prepared remarks for today and I would like to thank everybody who took the time to join us on our conference call today and listen about this new and exciting opportunity for AltaGas and WGL.

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Operator

Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for participating in todays conference. This concludes todays program. You may all disconnect. Everyone have a great day.

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Forward Looking Statements

This document contains forward-looking statements. When used in this document, the words may, would, could, can, will, be, intend, possible, plan, develop, anticipate, target, believe, seek, propose, continue, estimate, expect, designed and similar expressions, as they relate to AltaGas or an affiliate of AltaGas, including in relation to AltaGas or an affiliate of AltaGas following the completion of the Transaction, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. This document contains forward-looking statements with respect to, among other things, business objectives, expected growth (including magnitude of growth), results of operations, performance, business projects and opportunities, capital expenditures and financial results. In particular this document contains forward looking statements with respect to the combination of AltaGas and WGL and related performance, including, without limitation, the transformative nature of the Transaction, the portfolio of assets of the combined entity, nature, number, value and timing of growth and investment opportunities available to AltaGas, the quality and growth potential of the assets, the strategic focus of the business, the combined rate base and rate base growth, EPS accretion, and normalized FFOPS accretion, both in the first full year following the Transaction and over the period to 2021, growth on an absolute dollar and per share basis, strength of earnings including, without limitation, EPS, FFOPS and EBITDA growth rate through 2021, annual dividend growth rate, dividend payout ratios, the ability of the combined entity to target higher growth markets, high growth franchise areas, and other growth markets, the liquidity of the combined entity and its ability to maintain an investment grade credit rating, the location of headquarters for utility business, the local governance of WGL after the acquisition, the compatibility of the corporate culture, the leveraging of respective core competencies and strategies, the retention and role of WGL employees and the holding of significant roles for existing WGL management, the ability to deliver high quality service at reasonable rates, the fact that closing of the Transaction is conditioned on certain events occurring, utility segment customers, the geographical and industry diversification of its business, the stability of cash flows and of AltaGas business, the growth potential available to AltaGas in clean energy, natural gas generation and retail energy services, the significance and growth potential and expectations for growth in the Montney and Marcellus/Utica, the strength of AltaGas and WGL as utility operators, intentions for further investment in Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C., expectations for normalized EBITDA allocation geographically and by business segments, expected timing and capex for certain AltaGas and WGL projects and expected capital investment by business segment, future growth financing strategies, long-term target business mix; and this document contains forward looking statements regarding the Transaction financing, including without limitation, the private placement and the bought deal public offering of subscription receipts, subsequent offerings of preferred equity, hybrid securities, long-term debt and selected asset sales; and this document contains forward looking statements regarding the anticipated completion of the Transaction, including certain terms and conditions thereof and the anticipated completion and timing thereof and the receipt of all necessary regulatory, stockholder and stock exchange approvals.

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. Such statements reflect AltaGas current views with respect to future events based on certain material factors and assumptions and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties which could cause results or events to differ from current expectations, including without limitation: changes in market; competition; governmental or regulatory developments; general economic conditions; any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to termination of the merger agreement in respect of the Transaction; the inability to complete the Transaction due to the failure to obtain stockholder approval for the Transaction or the failure to satisfy other conditions to completion of the Transaction, including that a governmental entity may prohibit, delay or refuse to grant approval for the consummation of the Transaction; uncertainty regarding the length of time required to complete the Transaction; the anticipated benefits of the Transaction may not materialize or may not occur within the time periods anticipated by AltaGas; impact of significant demands placed on AltaGas and WGL as a result of the Transaction; failure by the AltaGas to repay the bridge financing facility; potential unavailability of the bridge financing facility and/or alternate sources of funding that would be used to replace the bridge financing facility, including asset sales on desirable terms; lack of control by AltaGas of WGL and its subsidiaries prior to the closing of the Transaction; impact of acquisition-related expenses; accuracy and completeness of WGLs publicly disclosed information; increased indebtedness of AltaGas after the closing of the Transaction, including the possibility of downgrade of AltaGas credit ratings; historical and pro forma combined financial information may not be representative of future performance; potential undisclosed liabilities of WGL; ability to retain key personnel of WGL following the Transaction; the impact of the announcement of the Transaction on relationships with third parties; risks associated with the loss of key personnel; risks relating to unanticipated costs of integration in connection with the Transaction, including operating costs, customer loss or business disruption; changes in customer energy usage; and other factors set out in AltaGas public

disclosure documents. Many factors could cause AltaGas actual results, performance or achievements to vary from those described in this document, including without limitation those listed above. These factors should not be construed as exhaustive. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in this document as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, sought, proposed, estimated or expected, and such forward-looking statements included in this document, should not be unduly relied upon. Such statements speak only as of the date of this document. AltaGas does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this document are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

Financial outlook information contained in this document about prospective financial performance, financial position, and various prospective earnings and cash flow metrics is based on assumptions about future events, including, without limitation, economic conditions and proposed courses of action, based on managements assessment of the relevant information currently available. Readers are advised to refer to AltaGas news release regarding the acquisition of WGL for a further description of the assumptions underpinning the financial outlook information contained in this document. Readers are cautioned that such financial outlook information contained in this document should not be used for purposes other than for which it is disclosed herein.

Additional Information and Where to Find It

This communication may be deemed to be solicitation material in respect of the proposed merger transaction (the Transaction). WGL Holdings, Inc. (WGL) intends to file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC) and mail to its shareholders a proxy statement in connection with the proposed merger transaction. THE INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS OF WGL ARE URGED TO READ THE PROXY STATEMENT AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE, BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION about AltaGas Ltd. (AltaGas), WGL and the proposed merger transaction. Investors and security holders will be able to obtain these materials (when they are available) and other documents filed with the SEC free of charge at the SECs website, www.sec.gov . In addition, a copy of WGLs proxy statement (when it becomes available) may be obtained free of charge upon request by contacting WGL Holdings, Inc., Corporate Secretary, 101 Constitution Avenue N.W., Washington, District of Columbia, 20080. WGLs filings with the SEC are also available on WGLs website at: http://wglholdings.com/sec.cfm . Investors and security holders may also read and copy any reports, statements and other information filed by WGL with the SEC, at the SEC public reference room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 or visit the SECs website for further information on its public reference room.

Participants in the Solicitation
North Korea is ready to test-fire an intercontinental ballistic missile "at any time, at any place," according to a senior regime official speaking International media. If such a launch was successfully carried out, it would be a major step toward Pyongyang's goal of targeting the U.S. mainland with a nuclear-armed weapon.

The comments were made by Choe Kang Il, deputy director general for North American affairs at North Korea's foreign ministry, and highlight international concerns that Kim Jong Un's regime is more technologically advanced than previously thought.

Choe rejected the suggestion that any test launch would be provocative.

"Our measures to bolster our nuclear arsenal are all defensive in nature  to defend our sovereignty and to cope with the persistent nuclear blackmail and threats by the United States against our country," he said.

North Korea has conducted a total of five nuclear tests, including two last year, but the country has never successfully launched an ICBM.

The country regularly threatens nuclear attacks against the United States but, until 2016, analysts had thought the country was a long way from developing missile technology that would make them capable of doing so.

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North Korea's Kim Jong Un says preparations for long-range missile at final stage 0:29

However, North Korea has repeatedly threatened to test-fire an ICBM since its leader, Kim, said in his New Year message that the country's preparations for such a test were at an advanced stage.

Some experts now assess that North Korea's capabilities may have been underestimated.

"Pyongyang is much further along in their missile development than most people realize," said Melissa Hanham, a senior research associate at the U.S.-based Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey, California, told Reuters earlier this month.

Choe claimed that North Korea viewed the regular joint U.S.-South Korean military exercises as a provocation that was spurring the regime to enhance its nuclear weapons capability.

"Imagine if our troops went to Canada and Mexico to carry out a nuclear exercise aimed at invading the U.S., what kind of response would you expect from the American people?" he said. "As long as the U.S. conducts these joint military exercises we will increase our nuclear deterrent forces and our preemptive strike forces."

Asked about the only policy the President Donald Trump's administration had so far announced regarding North Korea  the establishment of a state-of-the-art anti-missile defense system to counter the threat from both that country and Iran, Choe said:

"It's a provocation. If the U.S. wants to develop the system, it should not use our country as an issue or an excuse. The U.S. is intentionally aggravating the tensions on the Korean peninsula in order to realize its ambition of dominating Asia."

He did, however, sound some conciliatory notes on relations with the U.S., saying: "Our supreme leader Kim Jong Un said even though it has been hostile to us in the past, if the U.S. becomes friendlier to us we will develop that relationship."

Asked if he welcomed Trump's remark that he would be prepared to meet Kim, the official said "we will wait and see the difference between his campaign rhetoric and his policy as President."

Speaking further about the U.S.'s new leader, Choe said: "We're not worried who is president, but whoever is president should recognize that North Korea is a nuclear power and a military giant. We hope the new president will recognize that position and will drop America's hostile policy towards our country. He would be well advised to secure a new way of thinking."

North Korea's nuclear activities have prompted the international community to impose a stringent sanctions regime on Pyongyang via the United Nations, targeting the country's banking, travel and trade, as well as access to foreign-made military equipment.

"Sanctions aren't working. They will not stop our nuclear program," Choe told NBC News.

In January last year, Pyongyang offered to end its nuclear tests, in exchange for a peace treaty with the U.S. to formally end the 1950-53 Korean war and a halt to the annual U.S.-led military exercises in the region.

State Department officials said that the U.S. rejected the proposal, as the North Koreans refused to take steps to curb its nuclear arsenal.
By India Today Web Desk: After receiving an overwhelming response to his proposal of developing a mobile app/website for helping martyred jawans, Akshay Kumar met Union Home Secretary Rajiv Mehrishi on Friday to discuss his vision. The actor visited the Union Home Secretary's North Block office and is believed to have spoken with him about providing better aid to people of the paramilitary and police forces.

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ALSO WATCH: Akshay Kumar's tribute to martyrs on Republic Day deserves all our support

ALSO READ: Akshay Kumar donates Rs 9 lakh to martyred BSF jawan Gurnam Singh's family

Earlier this week, Akshay had taken to Twitter to propose the creation of an app or website where verified bank account numbers of a family member of a martyr will be put up, so that anyone who wishes to contribute can do so directly. He had proposed a number of measures for transparency as well, urging people to respond to his idea.

Akshay spent about an hour in the Home Ministry, and officials rushed to get a glimpse or selfie with the actor. The meeting comes at a time when various members of the security forces have been posting their grievances on social media. ALSO WATCH: Stop politics over surgical strikes, says Akshay Kumar to politicians who demand proof

--- ENDS ---
By India Today Web Desk: Alia Bhatt is one to let her work do the talking for her. The Dear Zindagi actor, who has already become a force to reckon with, has usually shied away from divulging much about herself. But in her latest interview with Vogue, Alia is at her candid best.

SEE PICS: Sidharth Malhotra, Alia Bhatt make ishq-wala entry to B-Town party

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When asked about something she stole from a set, Alia said that she still has a pillow from an ad film set in her room. Alia, who became the butt of jokes when she was unable to correctly name the President of India on Koffee With Karan, also spoke about the new President of the United States, Donald Trump. "I'd build a wall so I don't have to talk to him," she said when she was asked what she would like to say to him if she met him, according to excerpts in Mid-Day.

Alia showed her naughty side and revealed that her favourite sex position is "the classic missionary" because she is "a simple person." The 23-year-old actor, who would rather date a 50-year-old man than an 18-year-old if she had to, also said that she'd know the password to her boyfriend's phone, when asked what she would first check if he left his phone unlocked.

Alia, who is currently rumoured to be dating Student Of The Year co-star Sidharth Malhotra, also said that Bruno Mars' Just The Way You Are best described her last relationship.

ALSO WATCH: Dear Zindagi's Shah Rukh-Alia speak on relationships, love and heartbreak on In Da Club

--- ENDS ---
CSE to revamp listing rules on IPO cash but is it enough? By Duruthu Edirimuni Chandrasekera View(s): View(s):

With new regulations, firms which aim to go public wont be able to raise cash at their whims and fancies, but these deterrents may not do the trick entirely.

The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) aims to issue stringent directions on funds raised through Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) in their yet-to-come listing rules.

Well be issuing listing rules on using IPO cash for the precise purpose as stated in the firms prospectus. If a company wants to use the IPO funds for something else, they need to go to their shareholders and request permission, a CSE official said.

The CSE in their yet-to-come listing rules aims to issue stringent directions on firms doing things that werent promised with funds raised through Initial Public Offerings (IPOs).

Well be issuing listing rules on using IPO cash for the precise purpose as stated in the firms prospectus. If a company wants to use the IPO funds for something else, they need to go to their shareholders and request permission, a CSE official said.

He added that more than two years ago, there were instances where firms used to use raised IPO cash for other projects owing to bad conditions in the economy, etc. For example, those who wanted to build hotels switched their objectives saying that market conditions werent good to do so and either parked this cash in Treasury bills or did something totally different to what was promised. In such an event if macro conditions are bad for the intended raising of cash, they need to hold an extra ordinary general meeting, etc and obtain shareholder approval for change in purpose, the official said.

The CSE having observed this trend in changing aims by firms which listed publicly in utilising their IPO funds two years ago, had put in a mechanism to stop this from happening.

In one instance, Business Times research shows where Citrus Kalpitiya was a recent instance when the regulator had had to step in. The company by way of a prospectus issued in December 2011 to the public raised approximately Rs. 283 million to part finance the construction of a resort hotel within the stipulated period of 24 to 30 months. By 2015, a hotel wasnt still built.

Then in April of that year the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) directed that in the event the company is unable to rectify the issues in respect of the construction of the hotel, that it is required to propose a viable alternate scheme to shareholders who have been prejudiced by the failure of the company to carry out its objectives as stated in the prospectus. Complaints by investors with regard to this firm have been flowing into the SEC since the new administrators took office.

This was a test case for the CSE to incorporate a clause in the IPO go-ahead letter.

For the past two years we have incorporated a clause in the IPO approval document saying that in the event that a company doesnt decide to go ahead with the intended purpose for the IPO money, they need to go to the shareholders and get approval, the official added. But they thought itll be better to formalise it in their listing rules. The new CSE listing rules are now with the SEC for their go-ahead and these gaps in the listing rules will be addressed with the revamp. Also there are certain practices that are followed (which arent in these rules) which well include as rules, the official added.

But analysts say that this move wont do much to stop those who want to do what they want to do. Heres how. When a firm decides not to carry out work pertaining to the intended purpose, it reverts to the shareholders who are made up of (often) less than 10 major shareholders amongst a few minority shareholders. This is because over 70 per cent listed firms account for less than 30 per cent in public holding. So what a company in the aforesaid example would do is to diligently go before shareholders, but do what they want to as the major owners are their friends/families/allies/cronies and will vote with each other.

While the CSE is responding to an issue that has been festering for sometime, the new measures to slap rules may do little to drive the point home. The CSE and the SEC agree.

So far a penalty mechanism hasnt been discussed for flouting the rules. That for the most part is due to the rules still to be sanctioned by the regulator. We will need to come up with a suitable mechanism to arrest the issue, the official said.
EU, Germany concerned over unfair labour practices View(s):

The European Union and the German embassy in Sri Lanka have raised strong objections over allegedly unfair labour practices at two factories in the Katunayake Free Trade Zone (FTZ) also suggesting that the problem  if not resolved  could derail the countrys bid for GSP+.

The intervention came at the request of IndustriALL Global Union, a worldwide union grouping, which complained that union officials had been sacked and unions busting were among other problems at the ATG Ceylon (Pvt) and ATG Occupational factories at the FTZ.

The global body said it was acting on behalf of a member organization  the Free Trade Zones and General Services Employees Union (FTZ&GSEU) in Sri Lanka. It has written to 19 ambassadors based in Colombo including the UK High Commissioner. The companies comprise UK-Sri Lankan investments.

While the German Ambassador Jorn Rohde expressed his concerns to Labour Minister W.D.J. Seneviratne in a January 24 letter where he also drew attention to the alleged failure of Sri Lankan authorities to enforce compliance with the respective legal provisions, EU Sri Lanka Ambassador Tung-Lai Margue urged the same minister to ensure that the upcoming (union) vote at both the concerned factories on Friday (January 27) follows acceptable standards and procedures that are required.

He also pointed out that compliance with the core ILO labour conventions is a key requirement to qualify for GSP+.

IndustriALL Global Union said that in addition to union busting, managers at these factories had tried to silence workers addressing toxic chemicals and their safety at work, sacked the local union president and fired a woman who complained of sexual harassment by a male colleague and sectional manager.

It said the Sri Lankan government and the Board of Investment did little to enforce the law, allowing these violations to continue with impunity. The Department of Labour has two cases pending against ATG Ceylon and Occupational for unfair labour practices.

ATG has failed to act on advice from the Labour Minister to prevent unfair labour practices, the global union said adding that the company was insisting on holding a union recognition vote at the two factories, despite the union being formally recognised as a social bargaining partner since 2013.

The vote will take place at both factories on 27 January and we are very concerned that management interference and harassment will block a free and fair workplace vote. Management is currently intimidating and harassing workers against voting in support of the union. Labour Ministry or officials from the companies were not immediately available for comment on the developments.

On Friday, FTZ&GSEU convener and general secretary Anton Marcus said the January 27 vote has been postponed to February 7.

He told the Business Times, on an earlier occasion, that the fact that the European Commission (EC) has included labour rights as a requisite to receiving GSP+ especially freedom of association and collective bargaining indicates that this too is an issue similar to the matter on human rights.

Two weeks ago the EC recommended the restoration of these keenly-awaited trade concessions for Sri Lanka with government leaders immediately welcoming the move.

This recommendation would now be sent to the European Parliament and the Council of Member States which within two months can raise objections and even ask for an extension to do so by a further two months. Should any objections gain ground then the trade concessions would not be offered to Sri Lanka; but if the concessions are allowed then it would become effective from the date it was announced by the EC.
GSP+: Gearing to reap its benefits amidst huge shortage of labour By Cassian M. Fernando, Founder Chairman of the Chamber of Apparel Exporters View(s): View(s):

The 23rd Annual General Meeting of the Sri Lanka Chamber of Garment Exporters was held last week at the Hilton and every one present was talking of the GSP +.

But many had no idea as to how the resumption of this facility will help the manufacturer. In simple terms the restoration of GSP + will mean that the importer of products from Sri Lanka in the European Union will be able to clear the items imported without paying any import duty which is the region of 17 per cent. So the products imported will be 17 per cent cheaper to the importer. The manufacturer will not receive a cent more.

But the natural corollary will be that the importer, as the goods are now cheaper will place an increased quantity of orders, as he benefits from the restoration of the GSP + and cheaper prices.

If the manufacturer is powerful enough he may be able to bargain for an increased price and at least share the advantage between them. That will happen only on the relationship between the two parties. The average manufacturer may not enjoy such a luxury.

So the logical outcome will be an increased demand for Sri Lankan products. The question that looms large in the minds of the apparel exporter is whether he will be able to adjust himself to cater to such an increased demand

Looking at the apparel industry as it stands today there are important questions for which answers have to be found if the industry is to reap the benefits from the decision to reintroduce the GSP+.

As an exporter and one who served on the Textiles Quota Board for 12 years I recall that there were as many as 845 apparel exporters out of which 457 fell on to the category of small and medium with less than 100 to 150 machines .

This was the time where the late President Ranasinghe Premadasa ventured into his ambitious 200 factories programme. Although an ambitious and far reaching innovative economic decision it dealt a death blow to the small and medium sector.

SMEs lose quotas

At a time when quotas were a determining factor it was the quotas held by the small and medium sector that was withdrawn and doled out to those entering the 200 factories programme. Faced with the only prospect of closure this sector appealed to R. Paskeralingam, then Chairman of the Quota Board and some relief was granted by the allocation of 5000 dozens to each of the small and medium scale factories. This amount was grossly inadequate to keep the factory running for a year and these factories were compelled to look for sub-contracting at ridiculously very low CMT prices. Mr. Premadasa never opened 200 factories. At the time of his untimely death only 96 factories were in operation and after his death 38 factories that were in the pipeline were opened. These factories enjoyed a concession of 50000 dozen quotas. And with the abolition of the quota system there was no attraction for most of these factories to operate.

The sorry site of the clock towers that were erected with each of these factories now not taken care of and depleted and the non-functioning clocks showing the time as half past six depicts or symbolizes the fate of the state of affairs of the majority of these factories. The prime mover who owned 27 factories does not operate even five factories today.

In all there are around 230 garment factories in operation today as against the 847 factories that functioned 10 years back. Of this number only around 60 are small timers.

During the past 10 years there has been a 300 per cent increase in the wages paid to sewing operators. A sum of Rs. 12,000, 10 years back, is Rs, 35,000 today and even at that rate the factories cannot find skilled operators.

To add to the woes the government has brought in an increase of Rs. 2,500 to the salaries.

Factories forced to close?

Factories having over 800 workers will face inevitable closure if the salary increase is granted and the government has offered a grace period of two years. In addition the factories are being requested to pay VAT at 15 per cent which was not imposed on the exporters earlier.

In some respect the apparel exporters have shown great maturity in creating an apex body  the Joint Apparel Association Forum to address their pressing grievances in one voice, which is an example to other industrial sectors.

If the benefits are to come to Sri Lanka due to the reintroduction of the GSP+, the factories must be geared to accept increased orders. Today due to the lack of labour factories are operating below 65 per cent efficiency

According to the Foreign Employment Ministry each month over 13,000 female workers seek foreign jobs. This has compelled the factories to request the government to grant permission to import labour from India and even China.

The garment industry in Sri Lanka is highly labour incentive. It still remains basically a cutting room-to-sewing machine operation.

But other countries such as Hong Kong have gone digital. This is one way of cutting costs and also increasing productivity. Faced with these adverse conditions some factories have switched their operations to countries such as Ethiopia Kenya, Vietnam and even Nigeria. Labour in these countries are not disciplined at all and the factory owners risk even their lives when operating in such environments.

Paradigm shift needed

So if the country is to reap the benefits of the reintroduction of GSP+ a massive paradigm shift is necessary. Given the present situation whatever happens the big 15 stakeholders will survive. Virtually they perform the dual role of being the producer and the buyer also. Others are in a serious dilemma. Are they geared to meet the increased demand? It must be remembered that with the industrial revolution it was the textile industry that thrived first. But it is equally a fact that it was also the textile industry that faced the exit first. Countries such as Britain, Germany and Japan are no longer depending on themselves for textiles they all import. Will history repeat itself?
Hela Clothing eyes Mexico By Sunimalee Dias View(s): View(s):

Sri Lanka garments entrepreneur Dian Gomes is planning to expand production facilities of Colombo-based Hela Clothing to Mexico this year.

Mexico has been considered as it provides speedy access to the US market, Mr. Gomes, chairman of the company, told the Business Times on Thursday.

He noted that with trade agreements between the two countries (Mexico and the US) in place it would hold well for the company to establish a factory run by a 2000 workforce in Mexico as the US demands innovation, speed and cost.

The main export category manufactured in Mexico would be bras to the US market into which this bordering nation has duty free access.

Other duty free access nations exploited by Hela Clothing with factories already in place is in Ethiopia with a 2000-strong workforce and Kenya with a 6000-workforce in Kenya. The company has operations in Hambantota, Matale and Kurunegala and was marketing to clients like Calvin Klein, Marks and Spencer, Levis, Decathlon and Soma Intimates, a US brand.

Hela Clothing is in partnership with British national and former Merrill Lynch Chairman Robert Wigley and marketing lingerie, casual wear and kids wear.

Mr. Gomes, commenting on the gains of GSP+ concessions into Europe, said that in future salaries would be tied up with productivity as this was the only way to compete and as a result he noted companies like us are trying to link with productivity bonuses.

Moreover, most major players are now looking at how to increase speed to market and create an additional unique selling proposition to customers from Sri Lanka.
Imminent threat from protectionism By Frederic Neumann, Co-head of Asian Economics Research, HSBC View(s): View(s):

Trade has been stuck for a while now. That matters for Asia: the regions economy has been built on trade, and despite lacklustre demand in the West over recent years, and the pivot to local leveraged-fuelled demand, exports still matter hugely. Signs of strength in the US, and one might even hope Europe, should thus be positive. Problem is: there is a palpable protectionist turn. Optimists argue that rhetoric might not be followed up by equally forceful action. Plus, it may take time before the various measures that restrain trade are put in place. Perhaps. But a more immediate concern for Asia is that such noise will already put a dent on investment.

Even with market access restrictions, not yet, if ever, realized, why expand production facilities now?

That trade matters for Asia is hardly a secret. However, in years to come, exports might matter even more: as debt-fuelled growth reaches its limits, shipments to the West, and the world beyond, offer one of the few opportunities to sustain economic expansion. One might look at the period between the Global Financial Crisis and today as an aberration, when credit fuelled Asias growth engine, before the West regained its appetite for imports from the East and allowed a gradual deleveraging without a tumble in growth. Trouble is: protectionism could make that pivot far more difficult, if not impossible to deliver.

Recent headline numbers, to be true, have been a little better than expected. In November and December economies especially in Northeast Asia reported stronger exports. But its difficult to believe that this pick-up will be sustained for long. New export orders, as recorded by the regions manufacturing PMIs, were flat on the month in December. In addition, a temporary surge in electronics shipments has flattered readings, as have base effects from depressed activity the previous year. Meanwhile, higher prices for commodities are also lifting headline numbers, especially for petrochemicals, masking stagnating volumes.

Growing protectionist sentiment, especially in the US, evidently poses risks. The exact contours of future policy, including their legality under national and international law, arent entirely clear yet. And it might take some time to craft measures designed to pull production back in the US. And yet, the economic impact of protectionist rhetoric will already be felt over the coming quarters. For one, there might be voluntary restraint by some firms in sourcing goods from Asia to stave off potentially more severe official restrictions.

More meaningful will be the impact on investment. Already, companies have curtailed capex, with expenditure on facilities and equipment slowing to a multi-year low in China and declining outright in places like Japan, Korea, and Thailand. Worries over market access could amplify this in 2017. Foreign direct investment, a key driver of growth in much of ASEAN, for instance, may slow and so could spending by local companies looking to export part of their production. Growth in Asia, in other words, might suffer even well before restriction on exports to the West become binding.

One might argue that there are other plans under way that blunt the uncertainty over market access to the West. For example, Asian economies are likely to ink a deal this year, liberalizing trade under the framework of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). Moreover, the WTO recently ratified an Information Technology Agreement, which cuts trade barriers for 201 new products, a useful step in a region where electronics is important business. Plus, a Trade Facilitation Agreement under the auspices of the WTO may also be completed soon, not a small achievement in a world where multilateral trade agreements have become rare.

Yet, as helpful as these steps are, they pale in comparison to the uncertainty that has emerged around market access to one of the worlds largest consumer markets. Even RCEP, an agreement spanning economies that comprise some 30 per cent of world GDP, cannot make up for this, being composed of markets that largely run external surpluses and with often similar production patterns.

The rise of protectionism, for the moment at least, remains a risk, rather than reality. Yet, in 2017, Asia will find that such rhetoric already harms growth, not necessarily through reduced trade volumes in the near future, but through a decline in foreign direct and local investment. Words alone can be costly.
Sri Lanka needs $1.5 bln to tackle impending drought crisis By Quintus Perera View(s): View(s):

If the drought continues as predicted, it would be disastrous on the economy with water for agriculture available only till March, creating problems of a scarcity of water, electricity and food shortages.

These alarm bells were sounded by Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena, State Minister of Finance when he addressed the launch of Construction Expo 2017 organised by the Ceylon Institute of Builders (CIOB) held last week in Colombo.

The exhibition will be held from June 2 to 4 at the BMICH.

Mr. Abeywardena said that it is estimated that the Government would need around US$1.5 billion to meet the contingencies attributed to this impending climatic disaster with international organisations like the UN pledging around US$500 million, which is still short of the need.

In this situation, Government would have no option other than pull out the funds allocated for other activities. He said that the scarcity of water and electricity would also affect the construction industry.

Speaking of the construction industry, he asserted that the construction industry in Asia is heavily expanding and moving forward. Sri Lanka too is striving to keep pace with that trend, while the industry is adopting new environmental and safety trends. Specially, he said there was a big change in the construction industry in Sri Lanka after the war.

He pointed out that in 2014 the construction industry contributed 7.2 per cent to the GDP but it has declined to 6.4 per cent in 2015 due to the elections which is normal. However he pointed out that the industry has gathered momentum and during the first three quarters of 2016 it has increased to 6.9 per cent. The target for 2017, he indicated is 12 per cent.

Dr. Rohan Karunaratne, Chairman, CIOB said that they are working towards a Green Sri Lanka  Green Concept in the construction industry.

The association is conducting Construction Expo for the fifth consecutive year. He said that it gathers momentum year after year making it the countrys premier building construction exhibition on machinery, technology supply and services. He said more and more companies are interested in obtaining the Green Marketing Concept for recognition of their products and services.

This move, he pointed out is to take the construction industry in Sri Lanka to be in par with the most advanced countries in technology and other aspects with sustainable construction methodology with the intention of providing all the knowhow. He said that adapting to the Green Concept would save up to 40 per cent of the expenditure as it reuses the waste resources.
Corruption continues: President must reverse the trend View(s):

Bellanwila prelate bluntly tells Sirisena the people feel let down because of continuing fraud and other misdeeds

Sirisena responds strongly, assures that all bond issues will be probed and those found guilty punished

Cabinet reshuffle likely soon; four UNP ministers may face change of portfolios

Rajapaksa rejects plea by CMs to support SLFP at polls, says Nugegoda rally proof of where the people are

By Our Political Editor

The many challenges for President Maithripala Sirisena, now in the early days of his third year in office, seem unprecedented if not too burdensome.

Since assuming the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) leadership in 2015, his highest priority has been to reunify the party. That turned out to be a futile exercise. Thus, he urged SLFP Ministers who were summoned on January 3 to be told of his plans for 2017 to publicly expose the misdeeds of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa and members of his family. He began to offer plum jobs to incompetent Rajapaksa loyalists saying they should be separated from the former President before dealing a hard blow at him. He offered diplomatic postings to those who were close to Rajapaksa. The reality that every such appointment angered hundreds of his own supporters, and his countrymen, to say the least, was lost on him.

Just 18 days after that meeting, it did not deter Sirisena from making another vain attempt for peace with the Rajapaksas. It came in the form of giving the green light to seven Provincial Chief Ministers to meet Rajapaksa last Sunday. Their main objective was to forge a united alliance of the two SLFP factions, one backing Sirisena and the other Rajapaksa, to contest the Provincial Council (PC) elections as one. Polls for the Eastern, Wayamba (North Central) and Sabaragamuwa Provincial Councils are due this year.

Local Council polls not yet

Interesting enough, those at the highest levels of the Government want to hold these elections first. As for the long overdue local council elections, they opine that there are more time-consuming procedural issues to overcome. In reality it was not so. Senior SLFPers backing Sirisena confess privately that such polls would end in certain defeat. If an alliance was forged, that would have paved the way for victory, said one of them. Another reason, they point out, is a decision first on the system of voting at the local council polls. As for the PCs, the existing proportional representation system is to be followed. Some Chief Ministers have been complaining to President Sirisena that the majorities in their respective councils were fragile. Those close to Sirisena felt that an accord of some sort with Rajapaksa would not only unify the party but would pave the way even for a future SLFP Government. For them, this patching up operation was a necessity, particularly in the light of irreconcilable issues that have cropped up with their United National Party (UNP) partner in the National Unity Government.

SLFP policies have been sold

It was an odd combination that paved the way for the Chief Ministers dialogue. Sabaragamuwa Chief Minister Maheepala Heraths son Kanaka Herath, an SLFP parliamentarian who supports Rajapaksa, was the conduit. The former President, who agreed to the meeting, ensured some of his strongmen who were not in the best of terms with the Chief Ministers were present. Former Western Province Chief Minister Prasanna Ranatunga is opposed to his successor Isuru Devapriya. Former Minister Johnston Fernando is opposed to Maheepala Herath (CM Sabaragamuwa). Other CMs present were Sarath Ekanayake (Central Province), Shan Wijayalal de Silva (Southern Province), Dharmasiri Dassanayake (North Western) and Chamara Sampath Dassanayake (Uva). Other Rajapaksa invitees were Gamini Lokuge, Mahinda Yapa Abeywardene and Bandula Gunawardena. Dullas Allahapperuma who was due to attend was indisposed.

The Chief Ministers declared that they came at the request of President Sirisena to appeal to Rajapaksa not to break the SLFP. Rajapaksa first let his own invitees to speak but joined in later.

You can meet me anytime. However, you all have joined our partys enemy, the United National Party (UNP). As long as this arrangement continues, I cannot discuss anything, declared Rajapaksa. He disclosed for the first time that he had been receiving offers that investigations against him and members of his family would be dropped if he chose to retire from politics. He said he was willing to discuss the demands of the Chief Ministers only if President Sirisena removes the UNP from his Government. He charged that the SLFP policies had been sold outright to the UNP. How we can work with you all under these circumstances? he asked.

Rajapaksa said he had retired on January 9, 2015. They attacked me and my family. I thought it would be for two or six months. I can understand that, for it happens in politics. Even after two years they are doing it. They are chasing behind political opponents. They took into custody Wimal Weerawansa, he pointed out. Weerawansas party convention was a greater success since he was kept in prison. Rajapaksa said adding; They want my support to win the elections. Once they win, who knows, they may ask me to retire.

Once the meeting ended, Rajapaksa invited those present for breakfast. When one of them saw hoppers on the table, he remarked that there would now be media reports that they had come to eat hoppers. Kamak Nehe. Aappa kaala giya ekkana ekka ney ogollo inney, or it does not matter, you are with the one who left after eating hoppers, replied Rajapaksa alluding to the widely publicised instance when Sirisena partook of hoppers for dinner with the former President the night before he quit his government to contest him.

Although the Chief Ministers and Rajapaksa meeting ended on a sour note, there was still a silver lining. That was certainly comforting news for Sirisena. There was heavy pressure on Rajapaksa this week to support Sirisena and his SLFP faction. That is even if they did not wish to forge unity for the time being. Last Tuesday, three of Weerawansas staunch backers  Ven. Elle Gunawansa Thera, Gunadasa Amerasekera and Nalin de Silva  met Rajapaksa. They urged him to support Sirisena particularly with regard to constitutional matters and electoral reforms. However, Rajapaksa holds the view that the Executive Presidency should be abolished.

Nugegoda rally: No speaker hit out at Sirisena

The mood of the SLFP was reflected in the crowded Joint Opposition rally in Nugegoda on Friday. Although crowds chanted derogatory anti-Sirisena slogans calling him an Aappa Hora (hopper thief), speakers directed their venomous criticism only against Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and the UNP. There was no pointed criticism on Sirisena or any personal attacks on him from the platform speakers. Mahinda Rajapaksa was to only repeat what he told Chief Ministers at last Sundays meeting  that Sirisena had driven him back to politics though he had chosen to retire. He also criticised the Central Bank bond scam. It is now becoming clear that the strategy of the pro-Rajapaksa SLFP group is to drive a wedge between the UNP and the Sirisena faction of the SLFP. The Central Bank bond scam and the controversial conduct of some UNP ministers, who are facing serious allegations of bribery and corruption, have come as grist to the mill for them.

Cabinet reshuffle discussed

Sirisena had another formidable task on hand  conveying to Prime Minister  Wickremesinghe some important decisions he had made during the latters absence. Hardly a few hours after the Prime Ministers return from Davos (Switzerland) where he attended the World Economic Forum, the duo met last Sunday night. Also present was Malik Samarawickrema, Minister of Development Strategies and International Trade.

Sirisena declared that he would appoint a Commission of Inquiry to probe the Central Bank bond scam. He also said that he proposed to effect a re-shuffle of his Cabinet of Ministers. Sources close to the Presidency said Wickremesinghe, who had earlier resisted moves for a reshuffle, wanted a months time. However, Sirisena is learnt to have noted that a months time would be too long. The same sources said that Sirisena proposed to change the portfolios of at least four UNP ministers who have become the objects of severe criticism. However, new faces to fill such positions would also have to come from the UNP. Allegations against the ministers range from corruption, secret deals with Opposition personalities to fixing projects for financial considerations.

Commission of inquiry

On Friday evening, Sirisena signed a proclamation appointing the Presidential Commission of Inquiry. It is headed by serving Supreme Court Justice K.T. Chitrasiri and includes Justice Prasanna Jayawardena and retired Deputy Auditor General Kandasamy Velupillai. The terms of reference, still being formulated, are to be gazetted next week. On January 22, Sirisena tweeted that he would appoint a Special Presidential Commission of Inquiry. However, he had changed his mind after legal advisors told him it would have to be a Commission of Inquiry.

The Joint Opposition leader Dinesh Gunawardena welcomed the appointment f a Commission of Inquiry to probe the Central Bank bond scam. Hel told the Sunday Times The very fact that such a probe is being conducted is an acknowledgement that there have been serious irregularities and a colossal amount of public funds have been defrauded.

The fact that Sirisena has chosen a Commission of Inquiry as against also a proposal before the Cabinet of Ministers to appoint Criminal Justice Commissions (CJCs) is significant. In doing so, he has also, in fact, accepted the recommendations made by a ten-member SLFP Committee headed by Transport Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva. The reports contents were revealed exclusively in the Sunday Times of December 11 last year.

The SLFP Committee recommended that a Presidential Commission of Inquiry comprising a sitting Justice of the Supreme Court, an expert in the field of finance and a professional expert in the field of audit should be set up. The Committee said that they do not believe that forwarding the report of the parliamentary Committee on Public Enterprises (COPE), after it is debated and approved in Parliament, is the only process through which the situation could be corrected.

The Committee noted that considering the COPE report, on the face of it, there are large financial irregularities and as a result the Government suffered a large financial loss. It added; Perpetual Treasuries gained a large profit in a short period and it is unusual in normal commercial transactions. Particularly the close relationship between the (former) Central Bank Governor and Arjun Aloysius of Perpetual Treasuries creates serious doubts. The actions of the former Governor of the Central Bank and officials of the Bank of Ceylon also creates serious suspicion.

The CBSL bond issue was the subject of a nine-hour debate in Parliament last Tuesday. Extracts of comments made by key speakers appear elsewhere in this newspaper. The next day, President Sirisena was at a ceremony where a 54-foot replica of the Avukhana Buddha was unveiled at the Abhayaramaya Temple in Narahenpita.

A strong speech made by Ven. Bellanwila Wimalaratana Thera was to prompt Sirisena to make an equally strong response. Here are edited highlights of Ven. Wimalaratna Theras speech. The prelate is the Anu Nayaka of the Kotte Sri Kalyani Dharmasri Maha Sangha Sabhawa and Chanceller of the Sri Jayawardenapura University.

At a religious event I do not wish to speak politics. However, I thought of saying something since the President also is here. The people in this country, ushered in a major political change two years ago. The people, therefore, expected a justifiable change in the level of governance. It is true that there has been some development activity, but people expected a change on issues like corruption and frauds. It is sad to say we have to question whether the expected change has taken place. I will come out with one example.

I am a monk who has no political links or bias. I am not a person who takes sides or praises one side and criticises the other. I dont need to do that, because I do not want any favours from the Government. I do not have the need to topple the Government. I am speaking about a colossal fraud in the country. Everyone is aware of. Even a small child will tell you this. This is a robbery, this is a fraud. Why is a Commission being appointed? Is it to cover up? It is being debated in Parliament and then there is also a case being filed  these are all jokes. The people are being taken for a ride. Dont the politicians have some shame to allow some persons favoured by them to carry out this fraud? We know that you (President) are an honest person and you are trying to do something for the country. As Ananda Thera mentioned, use your powers. The people voted for you so that corruption and frauds are brought to an end.

It is a difficult task. In history the two main parties have not got together to rule the country. This is like walking a tight rope. It is not easy. Sri Lanka is a blessed country. Instead of depending on foreigners coming to develop the country, the locals should be empowered to develop it, irrespective of the foreign contribution. The Presidents thinking is pure and clear. I feel that the President is caught in between. The country does not need a new Constitution. If there are any shortcomings they should be corrected. The Presidential powers could be adjusted and we can proceed.

There is nothing to be discussed about the position for Buddhism. Already Buddhism has been given priority. There are various proposals coming. One of them was to give legitimacy to homosexuality. It is a joke, because some things in foreign countries cannot be applied to us. The GSP Plus or whatever should be given to us should come in a manner that we can preserve our identity. Our culture need not be betrayed.

I spoke on these because the President is here. I want to covey the pain we go through. We should give the strength to the President, who comes from a Buddhist, farming, rural family to understand the powers he enjoys and resolve these issues.

Presidents response

President Sirisena responded. Here are edited excerpts of his speech. The full speech can be heard on our website www.sundaytimes.lk.

Yesterday, there was a Parliamentary debate on the Bond issue. Both sides hurled accusations at each other. Those on the Government side spoke about what those no longer in Government did while they were in power. Those in Opposition spoke about what those in the Government were now doing. In village terms, I would say degollama naawa. (Meaning both bathed and subjected the other to disrepute). That is how I see it. When someone accuses another of being a thief, the correct response is not to speak about a theft that came before it. Theft is wrong, whoever does it. What is wrong is wrong. Everyone should understand how to carry out ones duties. This is consistent with ones integrity.

Ven. Bellanvila Thera, you said that Commissions were a lie (or a cover up). You must forgive me for replying to this charge. I appointed this Commission after consulting some of the senior-most legal experts in the country. An investigation outside a Commission may take two to three years.

Thats the reality. The usual procedure is for the COPE report to be forwarded to the Attorney General. The Speaker spoke to me today. He told me that Parliaments decision would be conveyed to the AG in the next few days. Once the report reaches the AG, there are two options available to him. As lawyers have informed me, one of these is to forward the report to the IGP to conduct an inquiry by the CID based on information contained in the COPE report, and to file charges against the accused.

According to advice given to me, this is a very lengthy process. It will take years. It has also come to my attention that the report has been forwarded to the AGs Department and then to the IGP for observation before the report was approved by Parliament. I inquired into this. According to investigations already conducted, they have ruled that the probe should be conducted not as a criminal case but as a civil one. I disagree with that. I want this to be done right. I have to emphasise this to the country.

There are two types of Commissions in this country. One is the Special Presidential Commission and the other is the Commission of Inquiry. The best one to probe this incident is a Commission of Inquiry. We are also planning to impose a time frame on this Commission through a gazette notification. I am of the view that it should be three months. While that time may change according to the views of the justices who will be appointed to the Commission, I will not agree to this dragging for a very long time. I appointed the Commission of Inquiry as this probe must be genuine and if there is any wrongdoing, then charges must be filed and the law allowed to take its course.

Some politicians say that the Commission was appointed to suppress the issue. I have no reason to suppress the issue. I withdrew from a Government which was plagued with frauds and corruption. I did not get out from such a Government to carry out a similar rule. I am clear on that. If they are rouges they are rouges. It does not matter who they are. I am doing my job in a proper manner. It does not matter whether they were former persons (former regime) or the current persons (present regime).

When I continue to do a proper job, the people will rely on me. To all those in Parliament, whether they are in the Opposition or the Government it does not matter, I appeal to them to support me to take action against those who are at fault.

The Bond issue came up only in the past two years, but it is clear that the issue has been going on for seven or eight years. After the investigations are completed on the issues in the past two years, I wish to say that we will appoint another Commission to investigate as to what had happened during the past seven or eight years.

I want to make this country a better place for the future generation. I accept your advice with deep respect. I am not prepared to run the country according to the wishes of other countries. I have mentioned this earlier.

There was mention about the proposal of legalising homosexuality. When the issue was brought up at the Cabinet it was I who rejected it. There was even a proposal to legalise prostitution. It was I who rejected it. I could go on listing out many other things adverse to the country and rejected by me.

It was I who removed Arjuna Mahendran. It was I who appointed Dr. Indrajit Coomaraswamy who is accepted worldwide. The country accepts that the current Auditor General is an efficient officer. The entire country accepts that the current Central Bank Governor is an efficient and clever officer. I appointed him. I am doing my job properly. I am prepared to correct the shortcomings. But if anyone is doing any misdeed, whether they are in the Government or the opposition, I will not protect them. I will take whatever decision is needed for that purpose.

We need to think of the country. We need to think of the composition in Parliament. We need to see how we need to run the country with this composition. According to the Constitution, Parliament cannot be dissolved for four and half years. We need to run the country with the present composition in a manner that the governance is not affected. I believe that the collective governance carried out by the two main political parties gives us a very optimistic situation.

Usually, under whatever government and whatever economic plans, if there is good rain the economic growth rate is more than four per cent. I am willing to accept criticism and I accept advice from the Maha Sangha. I do what is required by the people. I will not bow down to anybodys wishes, but will work in accordance with the wishes of the people. I will only bow down to the peoples wishes.

The issues we face today are not those which have cropped up during the past two years. The former President called for elections, with two more years to go due to these problems. That is the true story. He went for another election due to the adverse economic situation and the (resolution before the) UN Human Rights Council. We took over the government and we faced these problems. I was able to get over the issue of the international war crimes tribunal and the issue about appointing foreign judges. I am not prepared to accept foreign judges.

We now have the international support. We are building up as a nation. With the economic issues it is the responsibility of politicians, officials and others to perform their duties for the country without corruption, fraud and waste. Therefore, I am not prepared to protect those who do misdeeds, but I will punish such persons for their offences. I will take action against any person who commits offences.

People veering away from Yahapalana Govt.

At the Nugegoda rally on Friday, some speakers also spoke of misdeeds in the present Government. Former President Rajapaksa was to note that the corruption index on Sri Lanka by Transparency International was now much higher than what it was during his administration.

That apart, the large turnout in Nugegoda laid bare an important political reality. The people, most of whom voted for a Yahapalanaya Government, were veering away from it. Though some in the Government may claim crowds were paid for and bussed, a charge from which they are not altogether free, the fact remains that the Government has forced most people to veer away from it.

President Sirisena, has in his Abhayarama Temple speech conceded that the country is plagued with frauds and corruption. Both at the presidential and parliamentary elections, pledges were made to bring to book those who are corrupt and were responsible for other serious misdeeds. Two years after those pledges were made, the fact that no tangible action has been taken against any person is one thing. It is another when the people complain that such activity is higher now than during the Rajapaksa administration is another. It is still not too late to reverse this deteriorating trend.
Recalling those old and very same failures of justice View(s):

British poet and laureate Alfred, Lord Tennysons mournful call that the old order changeth yielding place to the new is an ageless reminder of the loss of once cherished values in these uncertain times.

Deprivation of voices of reason

The world now steps perilously into a future in which ancient demons of racial profiling, ultra-nationalism and rampant sexism are encouraged by a boastful and self-obsessed leader of the United States, whose penchant for pummeling state policy and abusing opponents (including the media) through the unruly medium of twitter has overstepped the bounds of propriety.

It is wondrous therefore that the first triumphant opposition rallies to the new US President were by women. Thronging major cities, they had apparently disturbed his enjoyment of brazenly won power. This defiance can only intensify as civil rights, once taken for granted, are relentlessly rolled back.

Regardless, the deprivation of voices of reason precisely at these flashpoints of severe global crisis adds to this darkness. This week, the untimely passing away of Nigel Rodley, Professor of Law at the University of Essex, United Nations Special Rapporteur on Torture (1993-2001) and Chairperson of the UN Human Rights Committee (2013 to 2014) marked one of those critical moments.

Singular interest in Sri Lanka

Knighted for his services to international law, he rarely used honorary salutations, brushing them off with unceremonious and brusque haste. His contributions to shaping the contours of international human rights instruments were momentous, ranging from legal input into the drafting of the precedent setting UN Convention Against Torture (CAT), the Istanbul Protocol and the UN Standard Minimum Rules on the Treatment of Prisoners (the Nelson Mandela Rules).

However, lost among these accolades was his singular interest in this country. Early on, Sri Lankan advocates knew of Professor Rodley by reason of the fact that a progressive habeas corpus judgment of the Court of Appeal had relied on an academic text authored by him on the treatment of prisoners.

In that precedent (Leeda Violet Case, 1994), then President of the Court, Justice Sarath Silva rightly ruled that the Rule of Law would be completely nullified if a state officer can cause the disappearance of an individual and then blandly deny any knowledge of his or her whereabouts.

A caustic denunciation of Singarasa

This judicial citation became a matter of some hilarity fourteen years later when Professor Rodley felt sufficiently moved to write a scathing denunciation of the Singarasa Case (2006). This was also by Justice Sarath Silva, whose responses to rights protections as Chief Justice was in abrupt contrast to his record on the appellate court Bench. I remember Professor Rodley at the time expressing surprise that this was the very same Justice who had (earlier) blithely quoted international law rights protections to support the Courts findings.

The Singarasa case concerned the conviction of a prisoner solely by reason of a confession under Sri Lankas Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA). Following the Supreme Court affirming the conviction, Singarasa went before the UN Committee under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) pleading that his confession had been compelled by torture.

The Committee was sympathetic to his plea and recommended that Sri Lanka amend the PTA so as not to put the burden of proof on detainees to establish that they had been tortured. A review application was then filed in the Supreme Court to reconsider Singarasas conviction. In response, the Court ruled that the act of Presidential accession to the ICCPR Protocol was a conferment of judicial power on the Committee and was therefore unconstitutional.

Vicious arguments depriving citizens of rights

In a lucid and critical assessment, (41(3) Israel Law Review 500-521, 2008), Professor Rodley caustically remarked that it was inconceivable that Sri Lankas Attorney General could have engaged in Alice in Wonderland (or perhaps Alice Through the Looking Glass) reasoning to urge that even filing such a review amounted to an interference with the independence of the judiciary

Nonetheless (as he said), it was even more inconceivable that the Court itself would go on to state that judicial power is invoked by the UN Committee. He went on to explain that the Committee was unquestionably not a court of law. No legal consequences flowed from its recommendations. The Court had therefore misread the international legal significance of accession to the Protocol. This merely allowed the Committee to make recommendations, similar to many such recommendations issued against states. No enforcement or binding powers came into play.

The Singarasa case ran moreover directly counter to impeccably reasoned judgments of Sri Lankas Supreme Court under the hand of Justices (the late) ARB Amerasinghe and (the late) MDH Fernando which had brought in reasoning of the UN Committee to benefit Sri Lankan citizens. Regardless, that powerful and vicious argument of using national sovereignty against rational legal arguments to the contrary prevails even now.

Remembering an astute mind

But Professor Nigel Rodleys interest in Sri Lanka went further than an occasional article. He readily agreed to the invite by the Government to be one of several international legal experts to observe the sittings of the Udalagama Commission of Inquiry which was inquiring into, inter alia, the killings of students in Trincomalee and the executions of aid workers in Mutur in 2006.

Here again, he was one of the more astute minds to recognize very early on, the grave and systemic failings in the justice system in respect of all citizens. I recall him commenting with dismay on the profound inability of Sri Lankas legal minds to come to grips with the severity of the crisis and the silence of many to speak out at the time, despite their local and international credentials. In fact, one of the last conversations that I had with him some months ago included a suggestion that he write a no holds barred reflection on his experiences at the time.

In a Preface that he later wrote to my book (Still Seeking Justice, International Commission of Jurists, 2010), he prophetically warned about the imperative need to understand how a once respected legal and institutional system that upheld the Rule of Law has, over some three decades, been degraded into one characterized by pervasive impunity.

This is a warning that holds true to us, even now as we despairingly struggle with those very same failures of justice.
By Press Trust of India: Hyderabad, Jan 28 (PTI) A fresh death due to swine flu and other complications was reported in Telangana, where 12 people lost their lives till date since August last year.

One person died due to swine flu and related complications yesterday, a State Government bulletin said here today.

Seventy-six cases were tested yesterday and eight of them turned out to be positive for the virus. As many as 3,398 cases were tested since August 1 last and 197 of them found positive for swine flu, it said

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Chief Secretary S P Singh today asked health department officials to conduct a campaign to raise awareness on swine flu and to ensure there is no shortage of medicines to treat patients.

Singh, who conducted a meeting with health officials on the H1N1 virus, told them to conduct tests to determine swine flu at state-run Fever Hospital as well in addition to the Institute of Preventive Medicine (IPM) here.

Singh directed that the Superintendent of state-run Nizams Institute of Medical Science (NIMS) be appointed as nodal officer for H1N1 cases and the Gandhi Government Hospital the nodal hospital for treating patients, an official release said.

The release quoted Special Chief Secretary of Health Rajeshwar Tiwari as having said that adequate stock of medicines, kits and other equipment are available in the State. He said there is no need for citizens to panic.

Meanwhile, reports in a section of media claimed Deputy Chief Minister Mahmood Ali was suffering from swine flu.

When contacted, his staff could not confirm it, but said Ali was undergoing treatment for viral fever. PTI SJR RSY JMF

--- ENDS ---
Spokesperson: For whom or for what is he speaking? View(s):

The role of a spokesperson, as anyone literate would explain, is to speak on behalf of a group or entity he or she represents so the collective positions are understood in a positive way.

However, that is not the case for loquacious Minister Rajitha Senaratne, the official spokesperson of the Government. More often than not, his public remarks have caused confusion and even chaos. It has thus raised serious questions not only on the former dental physicians credibility but also that of the Government. There have also been times when he has turned the searchlight inwards and revealed things which other spokespersons dare not.

Just last Wednesday, he made embarrassing revelations about a UNP Minister at a news briefing that followed the weekly ministerial meeting. Those remarks come from the man who is officially tasked to disseminate information about the Cabinet of Ministers. Here is an edited transcript from a tape recording:

Q: There is a controversy over a person who has invested in a tyre factory to be opened in Horana. The investor is supposed to have been a close associate of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

A: Senaratne: Yes, yes, it is their money.

Q: But the Prime Minister went there to lay the foundation stone to start work.

A: The Prime Minister only got to know that morning who this person was. He considered seriously whether to attend. However, by that time, the ceremonial plaque as well as decorations at the site had featured the Premiers name. It is relevant to say ministers who are to be blamed for this. No one can give an acre of land for Rs.100. Lands cannot be sold.

Q: Who are the Ministers who misled the PM and made him attend this function.

A: Im going to find that out today.

Q: Has this transaction been approved then?

A: Yes. But no one can give away an acre of land for Rs.100. Not even the President.

Q: There are allegations that some ministers who are with the PM are acting without consulting the Cabinet on various investment projects. Is this one such project?

A: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Management (CCEM) reports to Cabinet and briefs it on decisions taken. The Cabinet then approves them. The President has now instructed that the CCEM must hereafter submit its decisions to the relevant subject minister, who must then submit a Cabinet memorandum to the ministers.

On Friday, Development Strategies and International Trade Minister Malik Samarawickrema, who has been brokering a number of controversial deals, contradicted Minister Senaratne, publicly. He claimed that he had informed both President Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. However, he gave no details. The Sunday Times learnt that President Sirisena had, in fact, directed that work at the site of the project in Horana  begun without the conclusion of an agreement  be stopped forthwith. Neither President Sirisena nor Premier Wickremesinghe who should have cleared the air over Samarawickremas claims has commented either way.

Then on Thursday, Dr, Senaratne told Parliament that the Cabinet of Ministers had not discussed a move to either legalise homosexuality or prostitution. It was President Sirisena who declared at a ceremony on Wednesday at the Abhayarama Temple in Narahenpita that he had thrown out proposals to not only legalise homosexuality but also prostitution.

The proposals were contained in a 261-page National Human Rights Action Plan (NHRAP) forwarded for cabinet approval by Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera. The plan was accompanied by a two-page cabinet memorandum by Samaraweera.

How the official spokesperson of the Government of Sri Lanka was unaware of this is one thing. It is another that he contradicted his own President without knowing his facts. So much for credibility and the truth from an official spokesperson.

Who is the Castro in the Cabinet?

Two ministers put up a cabinet memorandum together at last Tuesdays weekly ministerial meeting.

When it came up for discussion, two other ministers had a verbal duel. When that was over, a third minister heard one of them remarking; those days there was Yankee Dicky. Now, there is a Castro.

BBS chief snubbed by Wimal

Actors and actresses queued up outside the Remand Prison in Welikade two weeks ago to meet with National Freedom Front leader and Parliamentarian Wimal Weerawansa. Roger Seneviratne, an actor and a member of the NFF, was arranging for batches to go in.

One batch was inside talking to Mr. Weerawansa when one of his party mates rushed in and told him that Bodu Bala Sena (BBS) leader Ven. Galagod-atte Gnanasara Thera had come to see him.

Eyata kiyanna mata oluwa kekkumak hedila nidiy kiyala (tell him that I am having a headache and am asleep), replied Mr. Weerawansa as he walked away from the meeting area.

Govt. does not listen to us: Cardinal

The Archbishop of Colombo Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith has hit back at a mercantile sector executive who accused him of being against the Yahapalanaya Government.It was over moves by the Government to use a Jaela area as a rubbish dump.

The Archbishop says: No, I am not against it, in fact I voted for it and I am sorry about it, because they dont listen to the people. May be they listen to the business community and rich people like you, but they dont feel for those who suffer the effects of misguided development including the legalisation of homosexuality, prostitution and the plague of abortion which is blue murder, which are being gradually introduced. So much for religious values!

Hambantota project: Line Minister opposes wholesale handover

Talks over the Hambantota Port project continue as local negotiators are seeking the advice of the Attorney General on whether the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) could hand over an entire port to a foreign concern. This is after views were expressed that the SLPA could only extend on lease the terminals in a port and not the entire port itself.

Another issue of discussion is the stakes of the two sides. At least one cabinet minister, representing a line ministry, insists that Sri Lanka should have a 51 percent controlling interest leaving only 49 percent to the Chinese company. He was heard saying that he would quit his job if his suggestion is not accepted.

Development Strategies and International Trade Minister Malik Samarawickrema earlier announced that the agreement would be signed before the end of January. However, a ministry official said the discussions were still inconclusive.

To be indicted

The head of a coveted agency is to be indicted in the retrial of a murder case involving a former TNA MP and has drawn a great deal of public attention recently.

The move to make him a suspect is the result of Governments legal advisors taking a second look at the case.

Rajapaksa says Fonseka feared invasion by India

Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa and a group of advisors were at a discussion.

The subject was Field Marshal Sarath Fonsekas remarks in New Delhi that the Sri Lanka Government was negotiating with India to hand over the Trincomalee Port.

Declared Mr. Rajapaksa: Here is the man who told a National Security Council meeting I was chairing that he required 250,000 more soldiers after the LTTE was defeated. I asked him what for? He said we would have to be prepared if there was an invasion from India.

Rajapaksa who guffawed added, I told him you dont worry about India. I will look after that.In fact FM Fonseka, when he was Commander of the Army, appointed a committee headed by the then Security Forces Northern Commander G.A. Chandrasiri to prepare a report on expansion and improvement. The report contained the need for the additional strength and spoke of threats from India. However, the report was later dropped.

An Indian High Commission spokesperson rejected FM Fonsekas remarks. There were no such talks and India was not interested in Trincomalee, the spokesperson said.
We need to cherish and nourish our Independence View(s):

As we celebrate our 69th Independence Day on February 4, we need to ask ourselves whether we are the noble country we claim to be. We need to ask how much independence we have in our homes, villages and in the country.

We cherish our life and we need to safeguard it with patience and wisdom while looking to the future. Religion and good habits are there to make life more meaningful. Unfortunately, most Sri Lankans belong to a religion largely in name. Though we try to adorn our lives with good habits and qualities, many of us rely on false values and practices. Though we seek happiness, rather than undergo suffering, we wonder who deserves to be happy.

All beings need food for their sustenance. Sri Lankans who have gone against nature to seek food and living conditions alien to them, are like the toddy tapper going from one tree to another with the help of a rope. We have, to a large extent, lost the greatest wealth of good health. The medical profession has largely strayed from the quality of kindness. Health is wealth, according to the teachings of the Lord Buddha. Today one of the biggest problems we face is that we have more sick people than healthy people. Medicine is expensive and doctors fees are high. The more sick and mentally retarded people we have the greater our problems are. True we will always have needs and deficiencies. There are inequalities among the deities also. Some are more powerful than others. The Buddhas Eightfold doctrine is applicable to both humans and the deities.

Do we enjoy true independence? Are we preserving it or slowly destroying it? Only a few are keen and work for its preservation.

What of the future generation? Who is responsible for the virtual collapse of good speech, good qualities of living, good relationships, simple living and other noble qualities? We all must take the blame for this. If we do not have the qualities of kindness and patience, what can we pass on to others and the country? When we get old and near death, can we even die in peace? We need ponder on this. If we realise that nothing is permanent in this world, we could enjoy a sort of independence and freedom. But again, parents can never be free of their children. One must not take the role of a parent if one is not able to properly play that role.

Religion and noble ideals are there to help in the realisation of our duties. Wealth, material and immaterial, is obtained by our own efforts. When there is robbing and cheating and undue amassing of wealth that society is heading in the direction of what happened to Alibabas forty thieves. Today in schools, hospitals, temples, churches, kovils, mosques, on the threshing floor and practically in the whole country there are examples of Alibabas forty thieves. What happened to the concept of Sri Lanka as a noble country? We need to realise and do our duties while teaching and training the ignorant. To develop the country, we need discipline and good behaviour. When these are not there, there is little or no development, happiness and security. Who can be independent then?

If we realise our duties and obligations, then freedom is assured. People of all religions and races must live in peace. Very few acknowledge that our lives are guided by the effects of karma. On this Independence Day, it is good for us also to understand our status. According to the blessings of Buddhism there are ways to live successfully whatever our religion, caste or creed may be. These teachings helped people to live in peace and freedom. The teachings helped to curb dissension, calamities and internal divisions. These teachings are needed even more today. Demands, problems and short comings are growing in society. How can we protect and nourish the Independence that we got? Those in authority need to give more attention to this.

Recently a friend who visited India gave details about technical training there. We too have this knowledge. With discipline and commitment, the Indians do their work. Those undergoing hotel training cannot sit still for eight hours. Those who are following training in music for a degree must go on practising for hours and hours with patience. This is the discipline that is maintained in India. Most of us have no training to work with dedication and commitment ever for a few hours. The farmer who went to the field early morning would work till evening, come rain or sun. Why do we not have this commitment and patience today? The young and old, and not so old, who are to develop and give liberty to this country must draw up a time frame and resolve with commitment to develop the country, within that framework.

Teachers, parents, leaders, workers and others need to work for our plate of rice and even preserve every drop of water. We need to take every measure to carry this country out of the mire and into to a bright future. Our beautiful country has a history and we must protect its good name for all to benefit from the fruits of independence.

When I visited China, I realised that trees were protected there. One particular tree, a plant was respected and was planted in front of many hotels and homes by the Chinese. This plant is not much respected and cared for here. It is what we call Alocacia or in Sinhala, Habarala, which is of help to us. In villages its leaves are carried to protect oneself from rain. Fishermen wrap fish using these leaves. During famines, we have heard that the yams from the plant have been detoxified and used as food. During Sirimavo Bandaranaikes government, when there was a scarcity of rice, the yam was in great demand. Plants and trees are in danger sometimes. Since this particular plant was not threatened it is respected and cared for in China. We must protect nature too because we need nature for us to live. That is why our Lord Buddha asked his monks not to even break a leaf or branch of a tree. Today the tree that gave Lord Buddha the shade and protection to attain Buddhahood is treated with great respect and protected all over the world.

If we are united as a grateful nation, we can be truly independent. Let us contemplate on our Independence in the privacy of our homes.

The Sahana Sevaya at Gangaramaya, 61 Sri Jinarathana Road, Colombo 2 will accept all your news and views.
Freedom tarnished by corrupt politicians View(s):

Next weekend, Sri Lanka marks its 69th anniversary of Independence. There is, no doubt, much to celebrate, none more significant than the fact that the citizenry are a free people, and masters of their own destiny.

Many still say that Sri Lankas freedom was achieved without a struggle; that it was a by-product of Indias freedom struggle and World War II that weakened the British Empire which was grateful to its subjects (now the Commonwealth) who fought shoulder-to-shoulder with them to defeat Nazi Germany  and that such an easy path to Independence is never fully appreciated by the people. That is not entirely so. Sri Lanka had its own struggles in 400 years of colonial domination.

ecently, the President re-gazetted the names of several Kandyan heroes who were termed traitors by the British rulers. 1915 saw race riots triggered by the Divide and Rule policy that is still perpetrated by Western powers in relatively newly independent nation-states. This is part and parcel of neo-colonialism.

Many advances have taken place since Independence in 1948, especially in the health and education fields. The political leaders of the newly sovereign Sri Lanka felt the long oppressed people deserved these benefits, but the growing welfare state, with free rice also given to the people, ran up big bills that had to be paid for these giveaways.

Exports did not bring in sufficient funds and today Sri Lanka, like many other economically developing countries, has the dubious distinction of balancing most of its budget with the remittances of exported labour. Funds for infrastructure development have had to be obtained through foreign loans, riddled with corruption allegations that have now reached epic proportions building up to a debt trap that is going to implode in 2019 when the loans have to be paid back. This weeks Parliamentary debate on the Central Bank scandal of 2015 and 2016 is a compelling story of our times. The debate itself was a cacophony of accusations across the floor of the House, but the overall theme that political leaders are corrupt, was crystal clear.

The Opposition Leader arguably made the best contribution of the day saying that all Governments, past and present, defend corruption. If only he can speak out more on national affairs other than confining himself to regional matters. His simple message was that both the SLFP and the UNP that have ruled this country alternatively since 1948  and are now ruling together  accuse each other but protect rogues, and that the people were getting sick of them. More so, he said, democracy was at stake with this kind of behaviour by both mainstream parties.

Corruption is endemic in Sri Lanka, trickling down from the Cabinet of Ministers to the traffic cop. Bloomberg, the world renowned economic data company, this week ranked Sri Lanka as one of the highest risk countries for foreign investors based on economic, financial and political risks. This, when the country is desperately trying to attract foreign investment.

As Sri Lanka celebrates its 69th year of Freedom, it is time the political leaders re-evaluate and re-calibrate their roles and ensures their tattered credibility is restored, both locally and overseas and that this is not a country where politics and political patronage is the last refuge of the scoundrel.

Lankas tryst with its (RTI) destiny

It may be a forgivable overreach in dramatic flair, but to paraphrase independent Indias first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehrus stirring words to the Indian Constituent Assembly on the eve of shaking off colonial fetters in 1947, Sri Lankas tryst with its (RTI) destiny will occur on Friday. This is when the Right to Information Act, No 12 of 2016 becomes operative to all Public Authorities on February 3, 2017, the day before we celebrate the 69th year of our own Independence.

In this case, the long established fetters that Sri Lanka hopes to shake off will be the decades of stubborn bureaucracy in denying information to our citizens. Typically, these denials range from plundered monies in the construction of village roads to multi-millions squandered in sophisticated high finance deals, from embarrassing Government mistakes being hidden as official secrets to a complainant in a local police station and much more.

As Sri Lanka sinks to a morass of politics as usual, the RTI Act is unquestionably a signal exception to that cheerless record  though late, at least it is one election promise that the National Unity Government has fulfilled.

This was a law that was relatively easy to draft because much of the groundwork had already been done with the draft Freedom of Information (FOI) Bill of 2004 under the then  and present Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghes watch. If that Bill had not been callously brushed aside by Presidents Chandrika Kumaratunga and Mahinda Rajapaksa as it posed an obstacle for politicians to rob public money, we would have had an RTI Act at the same time as others in the region.

Though the media spearheaded Sri Lankas RTI Act, this is a law for all citizens, not only journalists. Ranked high on the index of RTI legislation internationally, it ensures an independent RTI Commission tasked with monitoring RTI compliance and adjudicating on disputes. There has been a pitiful lack of time to prepare Rules and fine-tune Regulations to give effect to the Act as the Commission became functional just over a month ago though we are made to understand that these duties have been complied with. The ball is now in the court of the implementing agency, the Ministry of Mass Media, which has to gazette these Rules and Regulations.

The country will be closely watching as to how the RTI Commission is enabled by the Government to function properly. We must not forget Sri Lankas first National Police Commission supposed to be unique in the region. Functioning with integrity, it was gradually undermined by politicians even before the 18th Amendment put paid to all independent commissions. Even though the 19th Amendment restored the status quo to some extent, the Police Commission remains a shadow of its original self. This is not encouraging. The Government cannot set up commissions, boast to the world about this and then starve such bodies of adequate resources, refuse to financially support the commissioners or deprive them of the capacity to function independently. That will be a farce and worse, a betrayal of all the peoples struggles. Lankas RTI destiny will finally be measured only by the peoples wise and strong use of their right to know. Public servants, the media and the citizenry remain to be properly educated about the force of RTI which, in other countries, has brought corrupt politicians to account. We witness the agonising wait to bring these corrupt politicians to book partly due to the secrecy associated with the workings of the government which permitted Presidents, PMs and Ministers  and bureaucrats to escape with impunity the basic public responsibilities they owe to the people they represent.

Hopefully, the RTI Act  a great and long overdue gift to the people  will show us the way,
The Ambassador who went to Kandy View(s):

This article is part of a continuing series on Sri Lankan history

The Dutch governor informed Batavia that it was not possible to make peace with King Rajasinghe. The Dutch entertained a fear that the king will get friendly with the Portuguese again. Because of this, they thought of making some kind of peace, with the king.

There, every detail was discussed with the king. Certain conditions were altered slightly. The discussion was based mainly on cinnamon trade. The freedom given to the Dutch regarding cinnamon trade was restricted.



With this in mind, in 1638, Governor Jan Maetsuycker sent a Dutch ambassador to Kandy to discuss certain points relating to a peace agreement with the king. The ambassador met the king.

The agreement reached said, until payment was made to the company, for the services they rendered to the king, cinnamon was not to be given to anyone else. Further it was agreed to appoint a Dutch government agent (Disapathi) to Matara and until Colombo is captured, Negombo should be kept under their control.

All these suggestions were made to the king by the Dutch. As soon as this peace treaty was signed, Maetsuycker made arrangements to note down a few points for his successor to read and understand. He left the country. There was no mention made about the debt owed to the Dutch.

By Halaliye Karunathilake Edited and translated by Kamala Silva Illustrated by Saman Kalubowila
Going back to the golden era of Cinema music Multi-awarded film and teledrama music director Dinesh Subasinghe View(s): View(s):

Young musician Dinesh Subasinghe has surpassed all musicians in his generation and many other senior musicians in the country too. This multi-talented young man with an outstanding ability to play number of musical instruments perfectly became the winner of largest number of awards in the year 2016. Young musician Dinesh Subasinghe has surpassed all musicians in his generation and many other senior musicians in the country too. This multi-talented young man with an outstanding ability to play number of musical instruments perfectly became the winner of largest number of awards in the year 2016.

The movie Ho Gaana Pokuna being the pinnacle, Dinesh won five awards out of eight nominations he received at various film award ceremonies in 2016. He also won six awards including two awards at the 4th Derana Film Awards for best Original Score, most popular film song , Most Popular film song Ho Gana Pokuna at the Hiru Golden Film Awards and Best Music Director award at Signis Salutation (OCIC) and Jury merit award at Sarasaviya film Festival.

Also Dinesh was nominated for one of the Ten Outstanding Young Persons (TOYP) and received the award in December. The TOYP award is given to young people who excel in their chosen fields a. The programme is sponsored by Junior Chamber International (JCI). Since 1980, JCI Sri Lanka has honored nearly 300 individuals from all around the country.

Dinesh Subasinghe received his first professional award in 2009 at the SIGNIS (OCIC) awards for his teledrama score for Siri Sirimal which was telecast on Rupavahini. The award was received by his mother Miriam Subasinghe as Dinesh was undergoing training in India under world renown musician A.R. Rahuman.

From 2009 to 2017 Dinesh has won 10 awards for his teledramas, films scores and for his Buddhist Oratorio CD. Dinesh has won one Sumathi Award, special award in Buddhist film festival in 2011 by Light of Asia Foundation.

Dinesh first passion was playing violin and string instruments including guitar, banjo, mandolin, Ravanahatha and establish himself as an instrumentalist in recordings and concerts. He did this since 1995 but later in 2003 he moved to compose music as a professional music director for Sri Lankan TV and screen. Up to now Dinesh has composed music for 75 teledramas, 11 movies, 20 stage plays, 10 documentaries and directed music for nine tv radio musical series.

Dinesh is the youngest composer to direct music for 75 teledrama in Sri Lanka and he is the only one who has won 10 awards for his creations at national level award ceremonies.

The year 2016 was also a phenomenal year for Dinesh as he toured eight countries including Australia, Ireland, Armenia, United States and Canada for his musical studies and researches. He has spend nearly one month in Armenia and participated a Armenian musical programme which was organised by Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU). At this programme Dinesh studied Armenian classical music under Bagarath Wardaniyan and a number of scholars in Komitas Musical Conservatory in Yerevan.

Dinesh has started collaborations with Armenian musicians and plans to bring Armenian musicians to Sri Lanka for a concert and a musical workshop for Sri Lankan musicians.

Armenian music is important to the Asia and the world music. It has oldest instruments such as Kamancha which is closer to Ravanahatha and the one of the oldest flutes called Duduk. These instruments directly communicate to peoples minds and take them very deep in to their memories and emotions, Dinesh said sharing the beauty of Armenian music.

Dinesh has started participating in Grammy award winner andworld famous violinist for American fiddling music, blues and Jazz, Mark Oconnors OConnor method programme in New York from 2015, and he has been performing American fiddle music with Sri Lankan expressions at the New York musical programme.

The latest project I have taken up is composing music for Janaka Mallimarachis teledrama Adara Dadayama and this is my 75th teledrama. Dinesh said. Produced by Dr. Jagath Wijenayaka, teledrama is based on famous film Dadayama.

Dinesh had the rare privilege of being honoured by his alma mater Maris Stella College, Negombo. That was an unforgettable incident for me as I recently participated in programmes in Negombo and St Peters College Colombo as a chief guest and a guest of honor. Going to my own school as a guest of honour is one of the most

wonderful experinmce. I felt the

affection and the warmth we received from our school and it was like a film experince Dinesh said with nostalgic memories about his school days.
Its a kind of magic By Joshua Surendraraj Young Indian illusionist and mentalist Neel Madhav shares with the Mirror Magazine his love of magic and its unique spell that captured his imagination View(s): View(s):

It may all seem an illusion, performing magic. Regardless, making that illusion so real, that you actually believe it, is one of many things that the talented Neel Madhav, has in store for his audience.

Everyone wants to believe in magic, they want to see it happen for real, and Neel tries to bring it as close to reality as possible. I want to make you believe in something more than, just what can be felt, seen or anything that can be sensed by your senses, he tells me.

The 23-year old illusionist from India was here to perform at the Galle Literary festival, childrens programme. We found him seated amidst a group of children, teaching them how to do a simple pen trick. This was his second day at the Thomas Gall School, which was all part of the festival programme.

He conducted a show and several workshops for the kids between the ages of five, seven and eleven. You cant teach them everything in one hour, but you can just show them a few things. They are pretty bright and learnt it faster than I did, he tells me.

His interest on the subject was sparked by a magician in Boston. An illusionist was conducting a presentation on how business needs innovation and how you can apply the techniques of magic into business. Everyone at the time was like oh Im going to do this, because everyone likes to perform magic at that age. Butluckily for me it kind of stuck on, he recalls.

That same magician had a one on one session with Neel, later on, and by the end of it, he was blown away. I couldnt figure what was real and what was not and that made me look at things in a different way, he explains. It gave him a new perspective on things, which he liked. I thought that it was a very interesting way to live life. So thats probably why I ended up choosing magic thats how magic came into my life, he adds.

It wasnt always easy being a magician, and it certainly wasnt any simpler for a 20 year old starting off in the field. Despite this, three years down the line, Neel has his own television show in India  You got magic with Neel and aside from this he performs at shows and cooperate events all over the world.

In order for me to become a magician, I had to become a producer first, Neel explains. This was simply because magic in India was not popular and he had to figure out how to boost its image. He met with a lot of producers, all of whom said it was good idea but didnt want to invest in it. I had to produce it all by myself and my dad helped me out, he explains. Getting to know how a movie production is done, the dos and donts behind the camera and how to shoot a film in the correct way, was all part and parcel of his job.

Neel uses a combination of Criminal psychology and Neuro linguistic programming, in his performances. He explains that criminal psychology is the art of reading people. Through it, you can figure out if a person is telling the truth or if they are lying. We have micro expressions on our faces which, no matter how much you try not to  will appear. But they last only for like a micro second, so unless you dont know what to catch, you would miss it. Neuro linguistic programming is basically programming your neurons, which is your brain, through linguistic patterns. So just by talking to someone in a particular way, you can influence them into doing things in a certain way. Its basically like talking to your subconscious, he says. The reason he uses these technique, is because over the years, the image of magic in India had deteriorated.So Ive kind of contemporised the art form, still keeping the traditional thing in mind, but giving it that real touch.

I remember the first time I messed up on stage, he relates. It was at a little function, in a rural town about 300 kilometres off Jaipur. It was like an oh, I have no way out of this kind of moment, he recalls.

Being into metalism, mind reading and influencing people are all based around linguistics, he relates. So if someone doesnt understand you fluently it is very difficult to influence them and I havent figured out the correct way of doing English and Hindi together, so I perform mostly in English. English wasnt everyones first language, at the event, so I had to kind of change it up.

The alternative was more sleight of hand tricks. Performing it for the first time, he kept practising, trying to get it right in his head. So I call this one guy up on stage, for this one particular trick which required the use of a flap, he explains. For some reason however, the flap got stuck. I kept trying but it wasnt coming out. Next I tried to do it like I wasnt trying to pull it but it still didnt come out. This was when the guy was like dude I can see you trying to pull it from the bottom. Neel kept his cool and replied in the affirmative admitting his failed attempt.

He said, so basically you messed up, and I replied, yeah, go sit back down.

The key in such moments is to admit your mistakes and because of that, the audience will still be with you. And if you do get the next trick right, the credibility increases, he tells me.

Part of Neels show revolves on him going across India looking for magical stories. He gets the opportunity to look for magical people and try out different cuisines. I admire the Sri Lankan architecture and feel that its magical in its own sense, he says adding that hes excited to tour the country in the next few days.

Oh my Ive been speaking for the last 20 minutes, he pipes in. Our chat must come to a close as Neel goes back to the kids, who await him with much anticipation.
Sing-a-long with Annesley View(s):

After a successful stint in Kandy at New Years Eve Dance, Annesley and Super Chimes will be featured for a sing-a-long on 18th February at Royal Kandyan Hotel starting at 7.00pm. The grand event is organised by the Kandy Vaaj Fitness centre to celebrate their first Anniversary.

Prizes, surprises and competitions are in store for the fun loving Kandy audience, who will witness Annesley performing for the first time for a sing-a-long in Kandy.

For details call 0773442389 or 0812221666.
Central Expressway: Top Japanese team here to push through tender By Namini Wijedasa View(s): View(s):

A large Japanese delegation, headed by an adviser to the Japanese Prime Minister, was in Sri Lanka this week to push through a tender for the third section of the Central Expressway (CE III).

The visit came amidst reports that Fujita Corporation, the Japanese construction company which offered a lower bid to build the road, has been struck down by a tender evaluation committee on grounds that it was unqualified to implement such a massive project. Only the bid offered by another Japanese company, Taisei Corporation, is being studied. Taiseis price is Rs. 159 billion while Fujita quoted lower at Rs. 147 billion.

With its complicated terrain and land acquisition requirements, the 32.5 kilometre CE III from Pothuhera to Galagedara is tipped to be one of the most expensive road initiatives undertaken in recent times.

The Sri Lankan Government had hoped to fund the project through a tied loan from the Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ Ltd (BTMU). But during discussions this week with the 20-member Japanese team, the Sri Lankan side-pushed to obtain more favourable terms from BTMU.

According to official documents seen by the Sunday Times, Sri Lanka was to have secured a yen loan equivalent of US$ 1 billion from BTMU. The interest was to be 0.95 percent above six-month Japanese yen (JPY) LIBOR. There was to have been an additional insurance fee of 10.07 percent; an arrangement fee of 1.1 percent; and an annual fee of 0.25 percent, raising the total to about six percent above JPY LIBOR.

A STEPSpecial Term for Economic Partnershiploan under Japanese Official Development Assistance (ODA) is now under consideration, sources said. Repayment is typically in 40 years with a 10-year grace period. Under the scheme offered by BTMU, Sri Lanka was left to come up with a gap of aboutRs 200 million. While a STEP loan can cover up to 100 percent of total project cost, what is being discussed for CE III is a combination of STEP and concessional financing, an authoritative source said.

Committees under the RDA are separately evaluating Taiseis bid for the project. Fujita was rejected on the basis that it had not carried out a road construction endeavour of such magnitude in the recent past. It is not immediately clear, however, whether the other company qualifies under such criteria. But the odds were stacked in Taiseis favour from the time bids were first entertained.

From the outset, the Highways Ministry eschewed transparent, competitive tenders for CE III. Under instructions from the Cabinet Committee on Economic Management (CCEM), it chose limited tenders from Japanese companies, saying this was a prerequisite to securing concessional terms from BTMU. Such tenders are not advertised and other bidders typically do not know when they are floated.

Then, instead of opening the project out to all Japanese firms, the Ministry requested the Japanese embassy to nominate contractors. The embassy came back with just three: Taisei Corporation, Penta Ocean Construction Co Ltd and Wakachiku Construction Co Ltd. It said they were recommended by the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Sri Lanka but did not reveal selection criteria. It is not clear why the embassy did not ask the Overseas Construction Association of Japan which, with 50 members and 43 associate members, promotes international cooperation and construction abroad.

In the first round, only Taisei Corporation submitted a bid. Penta Ocean Construction specialises in marine works and land reclamation, not road building. Wakachiku Construction has mostly been involved with bridge work in Sri Lanka. But Taiseis bid was rejected because it had neglected to submit the mandatory bid bond.

The Japanese Government expressed displeasure to its Sri Lankan counterpart at the cancellation of the bid, source said. Prompted by the CCEM, the Highways Ministry then wrote to the Japanese embassy requesting preselected companies to submit fresh bids within two weeks, complete with bid bonds. It was in this that Fujita Corporation and Taisei submitted proposals.

Meanwhile, the Central Environmental Authority confirmed this week that the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report for the project has not yet been approved. We have requested some information from the RDA (Road Development Authority) but we have still not received it, a senior official said.
Coal purchases under heavy fire by AG By Chandani Kirinde View(s): View(s):

The Auditor General has recommended that a formal and practical Annual Procurement Plan be put in place to avoid malpractices in coal purchases by the Government.

This comes after an audit probe found estimated losses amounting to more than Rs. 4,145.43 million due to irregularities in coal purchases between 2009 and 2016.

The Special Audit Report on coal purchases by the Lanka Coal Company (Private) Limited for the Lakwijaya Power Plant in Norochcholai was presented by the Auditor General at the request of Parliaments Sectoral Oversight Committee on Energy.

The report says there was lack of transparency in the manner in which tenders were awarded, there was no proper documentation of the process. It also says there were instances in which important information on procurement had not been made available to the Cabinet of Ministers through Cabinet memorandums.

The AG also questioned if the Ministry of Power and Energy, the Ministry of Power and Renewable Energy, the Lanka Coal Company Ltd., the Ceylon Electricity Board and the Ceylon Shipping Corporation and the Technical Evaluation Committee and the Standing Cabinet Appointed Procurement Committee appointed to carry out these purchases had exercised professional due care in the performance of their duties.

The report concluded that Lanka Coal Company Ltd. was not proved as an essential institution that acted to ensure the least cost and least risk to the Government. As such the relevant parties should carry out an extensive study as to whether this institution should be maintained.

The AG said the report was prepared within the limitations of the mandate, resources and time available to the Auditor General and the examination did not go beyond the scope and examine whether there were illegal or criminal activities on which the Auditor General cannot make any conclusions. It added that if it was perceived that such inquiry should be carried out, the assistance of the institutions specialised in such fields should be sought.

He, however, recommended that officers responsible for the estimated loss, additional cost, loss of income amounting to more than Rs. 4,000 million should be identified and that the procurement process should be made formal to prevent the recurrence of such losses in the future.

The Procurement Process should be directed to safeguard economy, efficiency and effectiveness in order to safeguard the Value for Money Concept. The authorities concerned should ensure that the Pre-Bid Meetings are held with better effectiveness and through that minimise problems that may arise in the future, the report said.
Corruption charges tossed from one side to the other; Sampanthan hits all round Parliament debate on treasury bond issue View(s): View(s):

A day long debate was held in Parliament on Tuesday on the report of the Committee on Public Enterprises (COPE) on the questionable treasury bond auction that took place in February, 2015.

Here are some views expressed by MPs from all parties:

Anura Dissanayaka: Chief Opposition Whip and MP

This Government came to power on an anti-corruption platform. The expectations of the people of the country who voted for President Maithripala Sirisena in January 2015 were to see that the corrupt would be punished and that there was no repetition of the corruption that took place under the previous regime. But what happened within weeks of the President taking office? This highly questionable bond auction took place and it has tainted the Government.

COPE conducted a full investigation into the bond issue and said the former Governor of the Central Bank Arjuna Mahendran was responsible of wrongdoing in this instance. The COPE investigation was based on the report of the Auditor General who probed the matter. But what did some Government members do? They tried to undermine the AG as they wanted to defend the wrong doers. The attempts by those in Government particularly the Prime Minister who is trying to protect those who are named in this scam has made people lose faith in this Government. I think Parliament must take over the investigation into this matter. Otherwise I believe the culprits will never be punished.

Lakshman Kiriella: Highways & Higher Education Minister

Some have mistaken the role of COPE. No cases have ever been filed based on the findings of a COPE report. The role of COPE is naming and shaming, according to several British lawmakers who I interacted with when they visited here sometime back. The Government has done its best to get to the bottom of this to ascertain if any fraud has taken place. We have sent the report to the Attorney General. We are not afraid as we have nothing to hide.

R. Sampanthan: Opposition Leader & TNA MP

Corruption is endemic in this country. Every Government has been responsible for this situation. When an election is held, one party attacks the other party on the basis of corruption but corruption continuous. They blame each but they all do the same thing and dont make any honest endeavour to bring it to an end. People are getting sick of this situation. If this situation continues, it might be the cause for the downfall of democracy. Nepotism and dictatorships have always been preceded in many countries by rampant corruption. We have been talking about corruption but who is the man who has been convicted in this country for corruption? The UNP and the SLFP are hand in glove with each in the matter of corruption. People are getting sick and tired of all of you. We have had great leaders in this country, Did anyone accuse D.S. Senanayake, S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike, Dudley Senanayake etc of corruption? I am not saying the Prime Minister or the President are corrupt but there is corruption. Much is talked about the corruption that prevailed during the previous regime but what have you done. Has anyone been indicted in court? Has anyone been convicted or is it that your charges are unfounded? The country is stinking with charges of corruption against both the UNP and the SLFP. The Central Bank has lost its prestige. During the last regime, the CB was accused of engaging in political propaganda. As far as this bond case is concerned, no one should be spared and those responsible should be brought to book. I would urge the government to appoint an independent commission of inquiry and find out the truth. It is imperative that the country must find out the truth. This money belongs to the poor people of this country and you have no right to swindle their money in this way.

Kabeer Hasheem: Public Enterprise Development Minister

We cannot limit this investigation into one bond auction but the transactions that took place before too have to be investigated. This is the first time that a report on COPE has been referred to the Attorney General. We allowed an opposition MP Sunil Handunnetti to head COPE. We support a presidential commission too. We are for transparency. We in the UNP will not allow any cover up. It does not matter who is involved. There are fundamentals in issuing bonds and these must be understood. Many are clueless about the fundamentals of bond transactions. It was the UNP that introduced the Financial Transaction Reporting laws to the country but the previous regime ignored these and acted in violation of all the financial laws of this country. The JVP did not speak on the deals that the previous regime was making. Maybe the JVP also had its own deals or did not have the guts to speak up at that times. COPE reports were presented to this House during the previous regime which found that the then regime was not complying with financial rules, on tender procedures etc. But none of these were referred the AG.

Nimal Siripala De Silva: Transport Minister

I must thank the members of COPE as well as the Auditor General for the immense work they have done to investigate this bond transaction. President Maithripala Sirisena too has acted to address public concerns regarding this issue. We can see from these reports that there has been a massive fraud in this while the conduct of some officials in the CB, the EPF as well the Bank of Ceylon is questionable. We as the SLFP have made some recommendations to the President on what action should be taken to probe this matter. The appointment of the Presidential Commission too was recommended by us. The SLFP, even though we are part of this Government, have acted to safeguard the interests of the public. We will not put the commission report in the deep freezer. Once the report of the commission is completed, action will be taken against those who are found guilty.

Wimal Weerawansa: UPFA MP

The Government brought in a Singapore national as the Governor of the CB to carry out this massive fraud. This is the biggest fraud that has taken place in the country. The Prime Minister has a direct involvement in this. Today there is day light robbery in this country by a Government that came to power saying that they came to fight corruption. Today we cannot expect any fair play from the Attorney Generals Department.

Mahindananada Aluthgama: UPFA MP

There are many investigations done into this bond scan and even now some in the Government have refused to accept it. There is overwhelming evidence against three persons in this. One is Arjuna Aloysius who started accompany with Rs. 331 million and now has profits of Rs. 23 billion after the bond transaction; theres the former Governor Arjun Mahendran who is the one who broke the rules to facilitate his son-in-law Aloysius to make massive profits. The third is the Prime Minister who brought in Mahendran a foreign national to be the Governor and who has for the past two years continued to safeguard Mahendran. We know that UNP MPs have been prohibited from speaking on this issue. After many years, the UNP has managed to set up a government but a few outsiders are ruining it. Not only that even the SLFP is being ruined by them. The President must take over the CB. Having it under the Prime Minister is a hindrance to an ongoing investigation.

Mahinda Amaraweera: Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Minister

The President is committed to fight corruption and take action against those who are corrupt and action will not be restricted to what happened during the previous government. It is not only the SLFP but the majority in the UNP too want to end corruption. It will not happen overnight but we have to gradually do it. We will not backtrack from punishing those who are guilty of wrong doing. These are all public funds. Eventually the contributors of the EPF will be affected. We must also look at the culpability of officials in this kind of processes too.

Rauff Hakeem: City Planning and Water Supply Minister

The primary duty of Parliament is to be the watchdog of financial management of the government but it is important that saner counsel prevail when approaching a debate of this nature. We must take a look at how we are going to proceed once a report is filed by an oversight committee. I must congratulate the Chairman of COPE Sunil Handunnetti as he did not allow political interference to impede its work. The Speaker must take charge once the report is tabled in the House. The CB and its credibility too must be protected.

Sunil Handunetti JVP MP and COPE Chairman

There is consensus among all of us that if the country has suffered any losses, measures must be taken to recover the monies. COPEs report on the bond issue gave rise to a wide discussion on corruption among members of the public. We have to see where we go after this debate. We must not stop here. Parliament must execute its full responsibility of its control over public finances.

Ravi Karunanayake: Finance Minister

The Government has shown that it is transparent by allowing ample investigations into this issue. We have had several investigations and now there is a debate. This is an attempt to cover up the corruption in the opposition. There is lot of false propaganda to defame the government and these are not based on correct facts. There is a problem with three to four officials in the CB. These jokers in the CB are the ones who were working with the former Governor Nivard Cabraal.We lost millions in Greek bonds and in Entrust. What about the Pyramid scheme under the former regime? They dont talk a word about these things.

Eran Wickramaratne: State Enterprise Development Deputy Minister

We in the government agree that those who are guilty must be punished. There is a circle of corruption with dealers and some CB officials that is why we have asked the COPE chairman to investigate all transactions since 2008. We have all agreed in the COPE report that the primary dealer in question must be investigated while the role of the former Governor too should be investigated. We have sent this report to the Attorney Generals Department and the matter has now been handed over to the CID to investigate. The CB Governor has also taken some steps to restrict trading by Perpetual Treasuries as well as on the movement of their profits out of the country.
Anurag Kashyap got into a fight with Twitter trolls yet again regarding the issue of Padmavati director Sanjay Leela Bhansali getting thrashed in Jaipur yesterday.

By India Today Web Desk: Anurag Kashyap got into a major fight with Twitter trolls once again and for good reason.

The context was the violent attack by members of a fringe outfit called Karni Sena on director Sanjay Leela Bhansali on Padmavati's sets in Jaipur. Bhansali was thrashed and his clothes were torn apart in addition to Padmavati's sets and expensive film equipment being destroyed.

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ALSO READ: Padmavati director Sanjay Leela Bhansali thrashed on film's sets for 'distorting history'

The reason for the attack, according to Karni Sena, was that Bhansali was distorting Rajputana's history in his film Padmavati.

No person apart from the makers of Padmavati themselves have access to the exact content of Padmavati, so the attack was completely misguided, uncalled for and of course, illegal.

ALSO WATCH: Karni Sena protestors vandalise Padmavati's sets

Padmavati is based on the 1303 attack on Rajasthan's Chittor Fort by emperor Alauddin Khilji whose sole motivation was his attraction towards Rani Padmini, the wife of Mewar's ruler Rana Rawal Ratan Singh.

Rumours were afloat for some time that Padmavati would have a romantic scene between Khilji (Ranveer Singh) and Rani Padmini (Deepika Padukone).

However, the producers of Padmavati have clarified that no such scene is present in the script of Padmavati. Bhansali Productions' CEO Shobha Sant confirmed the same.

Here's the proof everyone @ShobhaIyerSant had clarified tht there are no love scenes & dream sequences b/w Dp 's & RS's CharacterSpread It pic.twitter.com/Q6EeXL4ZZR BhansaliProductionFC (@bhansaliprod_fc) January 27, 2017

The attack on Bhansali irked one and all among the Mumbai film industry and filmmakers and actors took to Twitter to condemn the violence. From Karan Johar to Ashutosh Gowariker, Sushant Singh Rajput to Anushka Sharma, everyone was angry about the manhandling of a National Award-winning director.

Anurag Kashyap, who has a history of not bowing down to extra-judicial policing on the internet or elsewhere, took to Twitter to share his thoughts on the same.

Can once the whole film industry come together and take a stand, and refuse to be a pony that all bullshit and bullshitters ride on?? Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap72) January 27, 2017

At the same time Shame on you Karni Sena, you make me feel ashamed to be a Rajput.. bloody spineless cowards .. Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap72) January 27, 2017

Regarding allegations of distortion of history by some Twitter users, Anurag asked them whether they read the film's script.

@kisalayJha108 have you read the script or is it your fear of what the film might show? How do you know what film it is?? Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap72) January 27, 2017

@kisalayJha108 I spent so much time in rajasthan and each one has their own versions of the story.. how do you know whose version is right Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap72) January 27, 2017

@ShrrinG yeah you are a historian?? What's your history?? Do you even know your own life factually Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap72) January 27, 2017

@annodomin1 ha ha .. joker Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap72) January 27, 2017

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Soon enough, the fight between Anurag Kashyap and Twitter trolls got intense.

@amarjeetkumar82 boss tu apne paanv pe toh khada ho ja pehle.. stand lega Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap72) January 27, 2017

@annodomin1 yes pls do so we can eventually throw your ugliness in your face & get so real that you will drown in your own pisspot of shame Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap72) January 27, 2017

Anurag soon called the trolls out as "Hindu terrorists" and that opened a whole new barrage of trolling and counter-trolling.

@ssingapuri same that gives you the right to constantly tell us what to do.. asshole fundamentalists, Hindu terrorists.. Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap72) January 27, 2017

Hindu extremists have stepped out of twitter into the real world now.. and Hindu terrorism is not a myth anymore Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap72) January 27, 2017

@itsLuvSingh aap jaison ki respect ka main achar bhi nahin daloon.. Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap72) January 27, 2017

@DOCTORATLARGE @Aniket_bhau terrorist is the one who terrorizes.. who creates fear, who attacks.. Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap72) January 28, 2017

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...and then, "kiraye ke deshbhakt" (Patriot for hire)

@DeshbhaktRaj Black Friday tere baap be banayi thi na, kiraye ke deshbhakt Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap72) January 27, 2017

Anurag's tweets continued where he slammed those who attacked Sanjay Leela Bhansali without knowing the script and content of Padmavati.

A film that is not yet made, but the whole world knows the script and what it's going to be. Such visionaries.. waah Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap72) January 28, 2017

We are living in the times where everyone who does not read or research knows more truth than those who have spent a lifetime doing it Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap72) January 28, 2017

Fake empty pride is the last refuge of the one that's never been honorable.. blind , unquestioning mob that doesn't know how it's being used Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap72) January 28, 2017

Years of fear and prejudice is being fanned and used to serve the purpose of very few. Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap72) January 28, 2017

I made 'Gulaal' about everything that's misplaced about my own community. And it still holds true. Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap72) January 28, 2017

When I was making Gulaal, every Royal told me the story of 'Roothi Rani'. Irony was that each one's version was different from the other.. Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap72) January 28, 2017

This is Rajput Casteism .. this is the mentality .. https://t.co/vG7HLvJfGT Anurag Kashyap (@anuragkashyap72) January 28, 2017

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Meanwhile, according to latest reports Sanjay Leela Bhansali has left Jaipur after calling off the shoot of Padmavati. He and his team are going to Mumbai now.

Starring Shahid Kapoor, Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone, Padmavati is scheduled to release in theatres on November 17 this year.

ALSO READ: Sanjay Leela Bhansali stops shooting Padmavati in Jaipur after attack by Karni Sena

ALSO READ: CBFC chief Pahlaj Nihalani slams V Raje government over attack on Bhansali

--- ENDS ---
Days are numbered for destructive trawling in Sri Lanka By Sandran Rubatheesan View(s): View(s):

Trawling, the notoriously destructive fishing method, in which nets are dragged by fishing vessels along the sea floor, are expected to be outlawed in Sri Lanka.

The Fisheries Ministry is expected to submit a bill to the parliament by early next month to ban trawling. Many countries have banned trawling due to its destructive nature. Trawling captures even fingerlings and alters the seabed.

Those who are engaging in trawling not only destroy the rich marine environment of the sea but also the livelihoods of thousands of small scale fishermen. We cannot let this continue, the Secretary to the Fisheries Ministry, W. M. M. R. Adikari told the Sunday Times.

Last week, Fisheries Minister Mahinda Amaraweera, got the cabinet nod to a proposal seeking to prohibit trawl fishing using mechanised boats in Sri Lankan waters. The cabinet paper outlined the need to incorporate an amendment to the Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Act No. 2 of 1996.

Unlike the illegal Indian bottom trawlers that intrude into Sri Lankan waters, the local mechanised trawlers are comparatively small in size and their inability to cause massive destruction of marine resources, but their fishing activities in shallow waters significantly affect local traditional fishermen.

A Sri Lankan mechanised trawler is 28 feet long and weighs three and a half tonnes. And they are less powerful compared with illegal Indian trawlers.

Dr Sisira Haputhantri, Head of the Marine Biological Resources Division of National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency, told the Sunday Times that limited marine resources are being harvested rapidly.

Currently more than 50,000 vessels are engaged in fishing in coastal waters. Most of them operate in shallow waters. Resources that are depleted take time to recover. So far there has been no management plan, he said.

Pesalai fishermen in Mannar who engage in trawling on a massive scale, say the Government must provide them alternative livelihood options before banning trawling. At least 200 mechanised trawlers fish for shrimp and prawns in the shallow waters five days a week and traditional fishermen complain that they are being deprived of their catch.

Santhiyooku Arulseelan, leader of Pesalai fishermens union, denied large-scale, destructive fishing.

In shallow waters we cannot fish using normal methods used in territorial fishing, recommended by the Fisheries Department. When NARA officials visited here some years ago, they inspected our activities and gave us clean certification, he told the Sunday Times.

Arulseelan also added that if the local fishermen are to be prosecuted for mechanised trawling in Sri Lanka, the Government should ensure that illegal Indian fishing is halted. Otherwise, it is meaningless. If Indian fishermen can come and rob our resources, how can they expect us to follow those effective fishing methods.

Nara will do a survey with the technical assistance of the Norwegian Government to find potential fisheries resources in the Sri Lankan fleet to help formulate a national fisheries policy for sustainable development, conservation and management of marine resources.

The new survey is tasked with exploring maximum exploitation and preservation of the marine resources in Si Lankan seas while ensuring necessary checks and balances for conservation and management.

N Subramaniyam, the secretary of the Fisheries Federation of the Northern Province noted that while all unions support a trawling ban, some are agitating against the idea.

We understand that some of the local politicians particularly those representing Tamil National Alliance in the Northern Provincial Council have backed trawling in the north for their own electoral gains as local government elections are believed to be held this year. We will not tolerate this and will stage a massive protest, he said while expressing hope that the bill would be passed by lawmakers next month.

A senior official at the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources said that trawling has increased in the north and measures to provide alternative methods were not successful.

The Northern Provincial Council is planning to introduce laws to set up the Provincial Fisheries Authority to exercise limited powers related to fishing in territorial waters. Currently the provincial ministry is vested with powers of developing infrastructure for inland fisheries and improving the livelihood of the fishing community.

Provincial Fisheries Minister Balasundaram Deniswaran said that laws are in the making. The aim is to exercise powers up to five nautical miles (12 kilometres) from shore under the purview of the provincial ministry.

Since there has been no effective law in place to stop trawling, it is difficult to prosecute them or fine them. We will support whatever the efforts taken by the government to curb trawling as our province is vulnerable to this practice, he said.
Disappeared people: Fast called off after assurance by Ruwan View(s):

Senior ministers will meet relatives of disappeared people next month to explain the measures the Government is taking to find their whereabouts.

Fourteen Vavuniya residents whose loved ones were either arrested or handed over to the military during the war began a fast unto death on Monday, claiming the Government has failed to take effective steps to locate those who had disappeared.

As the hunger strike entered its fourth consecutive day on Thursday, State Defence Minister Ruwan Wijewardene flew from Colombo to meet them and assured that a meeting with relevant stakeholders would be held at Temple Trees on February 9 to decide on effective action.

The fast was suspended after Mr. Wijewardene gave the assurance. Among those fasting was an elderly woman, who was admitted to hospital on Tuesday when she felt dizzy after her sugar level went down.

Civil society groups in Vavuniya, Jaffna university students and youth groups participated in a demonstration, expressing solidarity with the fasting Vavuniya residents.

Among those attending the February 9 meeting will be Law and Order Minister Sagala Ratnayaka, Justice Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe, Attorney General Department officials and the Inspector General Police (IGP),

Mr. Wijewardene says in a letter.

Sellaiyah Amirthalingam who took part in the four-day hunger strike told the Sunday Times that he was hoping to get a genuine response from the Government during the February 9 meeting to know about what had happened to his elder sister and her daughter who went missing in the final days of the war at Mullivaaikaal in Mullaithvu in 2009.

We have been asking the Government to tell us what has happened to our loved ones. I request them to give a reply from their heart, he said, explaining the mental trauma he and his family have been going through since 2009.

Meanwhile, Defence Secretary Karunasena Hettiarachchi told the Sunday Times that the Ministry had forwarded a report to President Maithripala Sirisena on the proposed Office of Missing Persons (OMP) Act which was passed by the parliament recently.

There are some serious concerns raised over this Act including giving open access to military installations, he said.

He, however, denied reports that the Defence Ministry was against the OMP.
Dispute over computers hinders tax collection By Damith Wickremasekara View(s): View(s):

Inland Revenue Department trade unions have raised the issue of confidential information leaking to outsiders because of a Finance Ministry proposal that computers required by the department should be leased instead of making outright purchases.

The trade unions have rejected the proposal to lease out computers claiming that if maintenance of the new computers is carried out by a different company, it would be difficult to keep the information confidential.The department needs some 1,000 computers. This arose after the rejection of a proposal to buy about 500 computers last year.

H.A.L. Udayasiri ,Convenor of the Joint Committee of Trade Unions of the Sri Lanka Inland Revenue Service, told the Sunday Times that the departments tax collection process had already been affected due to the lack of computers.

He said that on Friday the union wrote to President Maithripala Sirisena, asking him to intervene.

Inland Revenue Commissioner General Kalyani Dahanayake said the matter had been taken up with the the departments technical committee which would submit a report soon.

State Finance Minister Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena said the ministry would look into the issues raised by the unions.
Horana tyre factory: Land clearing suspended on Presidents orders View(s):

The clearing of land in Horana for the setting up of businessman Nandana Lokuwithanas tyre factory was suspended by the Board of Investment (BOI) this week.

Security officers were sent to the 100-acre site in Wagawatta on President Mathripala Sirisenas instructions after he learnt the tycoon was levelling the earth before signing the lease with the BOI. The activity had started despite President Sirisena sending a note via the Prime Ministers office to the Cabinet Committee on Economic Management (CCEM), flagging concerns regarding the project.

Among other things, the note warned about the loss to the BOI in leasing out 100 acres to Mr. Lokuwithanas Rigid Tyre Corporation (Pvt) Ltd at a fraction of the investment agencys floor price for the land. It also observed that other investors had been granted land at higher prices and underscored the importance of a level-playing field.

In a bizarre twist, Cabinet Spokesman Rajitha Senaratne told journalists on Wednesday that Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe was unaware who the investor was till the morning of January 5  when the foundation stone for the tyre factory was laid under his auspices and with the participation of senior ministers.

The Prime Minister knew only that morning who this person was, he said, convincingly. I know the discussion that took place. He knew only that morning and was considering whether or not to go for it. But by then the plaque was up, there were decorations and notices welcoming the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister finally decided it would not be right for him not to attend.

The respective ministers must take responsibility for what happened, Minister Senaratne continued. The very next day, Development Strategies Minister Malik Samarawickrama  who has been pushing for generous concessions for Mr. Lokuwithana  issued a statement denying his Cabinet colleagues assertions.

Both the President and the Prime Minister were aware of the investor since I myself informed them well in advance, he said. Furthermore, two Cabinet papers, i.e., initially one proposing the land and then giving details of the incentives and other terms were submitted on this project and in addition the project was discussed and endorsed at several meeting of Cabinet Committee on Economic Management.

The Development Strategies Ministers statement said it was incorrect to say the land was given out to Rigid Tyres at Rs. 100 an acre. He said the Governments Chief Valuer had placed the land at Rs. 170,825,000 which the investor has agreed to pay upfront. The Chief Valuer has also indicated that a further Rs. 10,000 be charged as an annual nominal fee, he affirms.

Official papers seen by the Sunday Times confirm that the upfront lease premium is Rs 170,825,000. The documents also state that the nominal annual rental is Rs 10,000 per yearwhich does work out to Rs 100 per acre. By contrast, the BOI charges a premium of US$ 40,000 (Rs. 6 million) per acre for a 50-year lease of WIZ land, papers presented to Cabinet reveal. The BOIs annual rental per acre of WIZ land is US$ 3,850 (around Rs 578,000) per acre.

While the tyre factory project is still in the pipeline, the land deal is now being re-evaluated, Cabinet sources confirmed. One of the aspects being negotiated is for the investor to meet the cost of water, electricity and roadways being provided up to the site by Government agencies.

Minister Samarawickrama has justified the property being leased out at below the BOIs floor rates saying it was a bare undeveloped land undulating in most areas. Based on the technical investigations done by Central Engineering and Consultancy Bureau (CECB), it is noted that the investor has to incur a sum of about Rs 300 to 400Mn as per the estimate to bring the land to a usable state, his statement said. The investor claims that around 3m layer of weak soil has to be removed throughout 25 acres of this land.

The BOI is not providing any infrastructure facilities like in other zones; even a waste disposal treatment plant and internal roads will be constructed by the investor, it continues. The total investment is US$ 75 million and the project will employ around 3,000 people (papers presented to Cabinet categorically say around 1,000). It also predicts that annual export earnings will be above US$ 125Mn.

The Minister states that the investor applied in March 2016 to set up the tyre plant, when he was still eligible for BOI tax concessions. (The investment promotion agencies powers to grant tax concessions were suspended in April 2016).

The communique does not disclose the tax incentives Rigid Tyres will receive  namely, a corporate income tax holiday of 12 years after which a preferential rate of 15 percent will be levied. This is significant as Mr. Lokuwithana has also gained permission to sell a massive 40 percent of output in the local market, thereby scoring a significant competitive edge domestically. Other manufacturing industries are granted only 10 percent local sales, extended to 20 percent under exceptional circumstances.
RDA says solutions to Kandys traffic problems on the way By L.B. Senaratne View(s): View(s):

After years of searching for solutions to ease traffic blocks in Kandy, the Road Development Authority (RDA) says it is finally ready to implement the first phase of a plan to ease the traffic jams on Sri Sangharaja Mawatha, via a new route along the Tennakumbura  Mahiyangana Road.

The project is estimated to cost rupees one hundred and three million.

Traffic blocks along this route cause the biggest bottle-necks during school hours both in the morning and afternoon.

To make matters worse huge trucks transporting sand from Mahiyagana along the same route cause perpetual traffic jams even at times when schools are not functioning.

Minister of Road Development Lakshman Kiriella said the project took years of planning and faced many difficulties in attempting to implement a scheme which would not only ease traffic congestion. but would also take into consideration that the plan did not interfere with Kandy being a Heritage City.

A major problem facing planners had always been the sharp bend near Mahamaya College -a major cause for traffic blocks along this road. To overcome this problem the RDA plans to construct a bridge over the ornamental footpath near Mahamaya College.

Engineer in charge of the Project, Tilak Siriwardene said the plan does fit in with the Heritage city design and has the blessings of the Malwatte Mahanayake as well.

The bridge will be built entirely with government funds and no grant funds will be utilised, he said

The bridge will have a dual carriageway as well as a metre-wide footpath for pedestrians.

The roadway will connect to a one-way road at Louis Pieris Mawatha and the Bridge would also link the Ampitya-Talatuoya road.

According to Mr. Siriwardene the Kandy Lake would not be affected and the bridge. He said the project had been accepted by the ongoing World Bank programme.

Initial work has commenced, and Minister Kiriella is expected to officially commission the project shortly

The Project is handled by the Regional Director of Highways D. Kumaranatunge
Sweeping tax concessions for Tata to resume real-estate project View(s):

The Government has given the go-ahead for the Indian real estate giant Tata to carry out a re-development and mixed-development project on eight acres of land in Kompannveediya.

The Gazette notification to grant sweeping tax concessions to the project company One-Colombo Project (Pvt) Ltd was published this week.

The company will invest US$ 429.5 million (Rs. 64.4 billion) to construct a multi-storied building complex at the site.

The project was first approved in July 2014 under the previous regime but with the change of government in January 2015, the project was stalled, subject to review. The Cabinet in mid-2015 gave approval to review and resume the project under the Strategic Development Act.

This week, on behalf of Development Strategies Minister Malik Samarawickrama, Parliamentary Affairs and Media Minister Gayantha Karunathilake presented in Parliament the Gazette notification outlining the tax concessions.

It says the company will be granted income tax holiday for 10 years and other tax exemptions for six years.

The company will also get exemptions from payment of Withholding Tax on interest on foreign loans taken for capital expenditure and on technical fees paid to consultants; management fees and royalty payments, provided, however, the total of such charges does not exceed three per cent of the gross operating revenue; marketing fees, provided, however, the total of such fees does not exceed 1.5 percent of the gross operating revenue as well as incentive management fees provided however the total of such fees does not exceed 10 percent of the gross operating profit, the Gazette notification says.

The company will also be exempted from the Ports and Airports Development Levy, Construction Industry Guarantee Fund Levy and import duties on project related items for eight years.
Caught! Night raiders who cant be fenced out View(s):

A 11-month study by research scientist D.G. Ashoka Ranjeewa in a village bordering the Uda Walawe NP reveals interesting behavioural patterns and intellect of elephants. Kumudini Hettiarachchi reports

They came, they saw, they conquered, sometimes through the use of tools, and roamed freely and leisurely in the villages for many hours, before heading back into the National Park (NP).

The electric fence drawn right around the Uda Walawe NP seemed like childs play for 35 majestic bull-elephants and their intellect. Their modus operandi was ingenious.

The tasty morsels in the villages across the electric fence were tempting. How could they resist the paddy, banana, coconut, mango, manioc, papaya and vegetables, even though the villagers had toiled to cultivate them and were fiercely protective, yelling at them from tree-huts, bombarding them with ali-wedi, lighting up the area with powerful electric torches or huge bonfires and even erecting electric fences.

The crop-raiders came anyway, says research scientist D.G. Ashoka Ranjeewa who has been studying wild elephant behaviour at the Uda Walawe NP for a long time and ventured into the electric fence-elephant equation in a first such research in the country.

These bull-elephants dubbed problem elephants who breached the electric fence, acted alone or in small groups of two to nine. They consisted of 21 mature adults (above 25 years old), five young adults (between 20 and 25 years old) and nine sub-adults (around 10-20 years old). In Ashokas research he never came across any cow elephants and their babies roaming the villages.

The bull-elephants would come to the electric fence and the popular method of exit through it was either pushing down the fence-posts with their legs or butting them down with their heads. This would disable the wires carrying the current and allow them to walk across, says Ashoka, pointing out that they also knew that the posts were free of electricity. The other entry-points the elephants used were the same openings that the villagers used but forgot to put up the spiral wires as night descended.

It was as the evening shadows lengthened from dusk to night, anytime between 6-9 p.m. that these giants of the wild walked into the villages from the NP, restricting the humble men, women and children to their homes and changing their lives. They would make their leisurely way back into the NP anytime between dawn and morning, 4-6 a.m.

Before Ashoka launches into the minute details of his study, he talks of an interesting and intriguing image seared into his mind. A young bull-elephant would swagger along the fence confidently with raised trunk, as if to assess the risks and dangers. Was this bull-elephant checking whether heat was emanating from the electric fence? The answer is yet in the balance, as it has not been substantiated scientifically.

But there are many other elephant-actions including the amazing use of tools that he has witnessed while swatting mosquitoes in a tiny hut up in a tree, glancing this way or that from his jeep or peeping through a window of a village home.

Usually, the only other animals associated with the use of tools are mainly primates such as chimpanzees and orangutans, points out Ashoka. (See Box)

In an 11-month research in 2014-15 in which he used camera traps to gather scientific data on the elephant crop-raiders of Uda Walawe, he focused on the three border-villages of Pokunutenne, Neraluwa and Dahaiyagala along its northern borders.

Ashoka is appreciative of the ready cooperation extended by the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC) in granting him permission to conduct the study and the Uda Walawe NP Warden Kalum Pathirana. Wildlife conservationist Ajith Sandanayake, meanwhile, had helped him in data-collection, with valuable inputs from Dr. Prithiviraj Fernando of the Centre for Conservation and Research and former DWC Director-General Dr. Sumith Pilapitiya on designing the study. The Rufford Foundation based in the United Kingdom had funded the research.

While the Uda Walawe NP covers an area of 308sqkm and has a boundary meandering over 100km, it lies contiguous with the Dahaiyagala Sanctuary and the Bogahapattiya Forest Reserve to the north and the Wetahira-Kanda Sanctuary and the Lunugamvehera NP to the east. It is used by around 1,000 elephants and it has been found that their habitat extends beyond its boundaries and covers adjacent conservation and non-conservation areas.

Kauda gam walata panina alior who are the elephant-raiders was the question to which Ashoka was seeking answers, along with how many are doing so and how they are overcoming the obstacle that looms ahead of them  the electric fence that the DWC has erected to dissuade them. It runs through small forest patches in some places, while several public roads cross it in the Dahaiyagala Sanctuary. The fence also has entry points, protected by detachable electric wires linked to the roads.

The elephants favourite haunt is Pokunutenne, home to about 100 families. As such, Ashoka had selected a two-km stretch of fence between Pokunutenne and the NP, tracing the permanent footpaths of the elephants. Having found the breaches easily, it was at these spots that he fixed infra-red night vision camera traps, not to catch the elephants, just their images.

The person tasked with maintaining the fence, Premalal of the Civil Defence Force who accompanied him would quickly repair the breaches. In the night, from 5.30 p.m. to 6.30 a.m. the next day, Ashoka would trek the same path checking the voltage emanating from the electric fence. The voltage is meant to give elephants a shock to deter them from crossing but not injure or kill them. He would also spend many a night in the village-homes, keeping watch.

This two-km stretch had been earmarked into two segments by Ashoka  a one-km ecological fence separating the NP from the village and the other a one-km administrative fence which runs through a patch of forest which is part of the village, just outside the NP boundary.

Next morning he would go back along the same fence and check how many posts had been toppled by the elephants and in what direction, whether away from or towards the NP to check their crossing patterns and also whether damage had been caused to the wires.

In the early days of his research, he had found that the voltage along the fence was not regulated and the elephants were crossing to both sides at will. However, even after the DWC installed a new unit early last year and the voltage was regulated, the elephants were still breaching this protective measure by toppling the posts.

When next the wire carrying the electricity was wound around the posts, the elephant breakthroughs had indeed dwindled along that stretch, with posts along other stretches becoming their target.

Masters at adaptation The street-smart bull elephants of Uda Walawe simply adapted when a novel idea was implemented to draw the top wire of the electric fence forward from the post to prevent them from reaching the post, with the middle wire being neutral and the bottom wire in its usual place. Soon after implementation, huge sighs of relief had followed, after the thrill of observation that the breaching-problem had finally got a permanent solution. Humans, however, had not contended with behavioural changes in the elephants to meet this contingency. This was a measure to prevent the elephants from getting access to the post, says Ashoka, smilingly describing how they simply adapted to the challenge. The elephants resorted to a new trend, for they were found in the village during the night and for Ashoka it is still a mystery how they got there. While Ashoka had been trying to unravel this mystery, suddenly the elephants once again adapted their behaviour  reaction following action. They would amble up to the fence and as if they had taken a distance-measurement, kick a small tree well within reach of the fence, to fall onto the fence and fell it. Elephants have been known to use tree branches as fly-swatters but this was unique behaviour for them, the use of tools, says Ashoka. Here the elephants had realized that if they topple trees onto the fence, the wires would come down. They had estimated the distance of the trees from the fence and whether they would fall on the fence, for there had been no record of trees being brought from far away. Yes, he smiles, when asked whether he knows the elephants individually. He is able to identify at least 700 in the NP with ease, having looked at their body-shape, ears and tails, photographed them and fused them into a catalogue. Ashoka has two favourites among the 35 who walk around Pokunutenne like the masters of all they survey. They are No. 155 and No. 186, he says, adding that 155 has a devil-may-care attitude, loitering in the village for about 12 hours and ready to take risks.

Ecological fence better bet The administrative fence faces more damage than the ecological fence, Ashokas research has determined, making the location of the fence critical. This is because people are seen and engage in activity close to the ecological fence and if there is any damage they repair it quickly. This seems a good deterrent against breaching. There is also a behavioural change among the villagers when they feel that the fence is not reliable, according to Ashoka. Pel rakinawa, nidi maranawa, he says, pointing out that they are up the whole night in attempts to protect their crops. They are also like prisoners in their own homes, unable to leave their cultivations for a single night. Explaining that in 2013, there were very few private electric fences, he says that now almost all village homes have a locally-made electric fence around their properties, which is about 98% successful in keeping wild elephants at bay. The most probable conclusion that could be drawn from this is that as in other areas of the country, it seems that community-run village electric fences may work around Uda Walawe too, while the DWC fence seems to be clearly entangled in trouble in the elephant-breaching issue.
Punchi Theatre sets the stage for cultural awakening By Tarini Pilapitiya View(s): View(s):

The rhythmic talafrom the Thalampataa, the beat of the geta beraya and the elegant movements of Sri Lankan dance are all part of the Colombo Cultural Show aimed at presenting authentic Sri Lankan art forms to the audience.

The programme that opened at the Punchi Theatre on Thursday, January 26, is the brainchild of veteran theatre couple Namel and Malini Weeramuni in collaboration with the Vice Chancellor of the University of Visual and Performing Arts Prof. Ariyarathne Kaluarachchi whose proteges, will perform for audiences every Thursday at 4.30 p.m.

Namel who has made it his lifelong mission to bring back many genuine Sri Lankan arts to theatre, is determined to resurrect the dances we take for granted. As artists of the older generation it is my patriotic duty to promote my culture, he says passionately when asked what inspired him to organize a cultural show.

Although the show is marketed for overseas visitors it will also help young students gain an appreciation of our traditions and culture. The programme will host 10 dance items from Kandyan, Sabaragamuwa and Low Country dance traditions performed as a weekly staple and include crowd-pleasers like the rhythmical Ves dance and the glamorous Peacock dance. Comic relief will be provided with a performance from the quick-witted performer disguised as the spirit Salupaliya who may appeal to non-native speakers by uttering some select lines in English and other European languages.

With the wide reach of Western influences especially on the younger generation, Namel states, We are losing a sense of ourselves in this time.

As the curtain falls on the Punchi Theatre stage every Thursday, audience members may perhaps leave their seats with a mind educated and a soul reawakened.

For more details of the Colombo Cultural Show, visit the official Punchi Theatre website http://www.punchitheatre.com/ which offers several foreign language options for overseas visitors.
Bogambara: From historic prison to National museum and cultural complex View(s):

By S.W.R. de A Samarasinghe

The Mahanayaka of the Malwatta Chapter Ven. Thibbatuwawe Sri Sumangala thero and the Mahanyaka of the Asgiriya Chapter Ven. Warakagoda Gnanarathana thero have urged the government to conserve and use the 140 year old Bogambara Prison Building Complex (1876) in Kandy for a national museum and cultural centre that would serve as a major resource for the advancement of the heritage of Kandy which is already a UNESCO World Heritage City. In a letter addressed to President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, both have expressed their strong opposition to any proposal to build a luxury hotel or shopping complex, as some appear to have suggested.

The two prelates have also sent the President and Prime Minister a project proposal that a group of scholars, experts and professionals have prepared for them under the guidance and advice of the prelates. The proposal advocates the conservation and redevelopment of the main building that occupies almost six acres of land, and using the remaining seven acres of Bogambara for ancillary facilities. One of the main goals is to create a modern world-class national museum in Kandy. A small prison museum will also be created. The rest of the building will be used for a cultural complex that will accommodate Kandyan arts and crafts, an auditorium, a performing arts facility, art gallery, an ayurveda spa, food court and other ancillary facilities that would attract local and foreign visitors. A small luxury boutique hotel too could be accommodated.

1818 rebellion

The prelates point out that the bicentenary of the 1818 Kandyan rebellion falls next year. Recently President Maithripala Sirisena declared the nineteen rebel leaders, who were called traitors by the British, national heroes. The head priests point out that the establishment of a national museum and cultural complex in Bogambara would be a fitting tribute to the heroes who led not so much a rebellion but the first battle for Sri Lankas independence that was finally realized 130 years later in 1948.

Financing

The Bogambara project proposal estimates that the initial investment for conservation and redevelopment would cost around Rs.1,000 million to Rs.1,500 million ($7 to 10 million). It recognises that the government is currently facing a very tight budget and may not be able to spare the funds for such a project. A strong diplomatic effort on the part of the government should be able to raise the funds from countries such as Britain, Netherlands, India and other major donors who have strong historical and religious links to Kandy.

The running cost can be met with entrance fees and earnings from other facilities in the proposed complex. For example, in 2015 about 620,000 foreign tourists visited Kandy. If only 100,000 visitors come to the proposed complex and each pays Rs. 500 for entry, the annual total revenue would be Rs.50m. The goal should be to make Bogambara a must see destination for visitors, both local and foreign. That would ensure a good revenue stream for upkeep and future development. It will also encourage more foreign visitors to spend an extra night in Kandy where, now, 80% of them spend only one night.

Ethnic amity

It would be a disservice to measure the potential benefits purely in monetary terms. There are also substantial non-monetary benefits to be derived from Bogambara. A top-notch museum will be a great resource to educate the present and future generations about the 800-year history of the Kandy region. It will also capture the international flavor of Kanda Udarata that welcomed people from other backgrounds including Muslim traders who had to flee Portuguese persecution in the west coast and sojourners such as the Englishman Robert Knox, not to mention colonial planters and South Indian workers. Most importantly, the museum will serve as a conduit to the past when people of different ethnicities lived in Kandy in harmony under Kandyan kings, an important lesson that the present generation can learn to achieve national reconciliation.
Dangers of granting police and land powers to provincial councils View(s):

By Jayantha Gunasekera

Every person who assisted the LTTE in procuring weapons, harbouring LTTE criminals and in other numerous ways should be investigated. This necessarily means that all identified LTTE diaspora members and all identified Tamil politicians should be prosecuted.

The promulgation of a Constitution leading to federalism and eventual separation is high treason, punishable not only by confiscation of property but also with death. The Tamil politicians themselves will be safe, if police and land powers are not granted.

The original Tamil population was about 11 per cent. Now about half of the Tamil population is living outside Sri Lanka. Of the balance, over 50 per cent are living in the South. Therefore the Constitutional changes that are contemplated by the Tamil politicians are to please about 500,000 who are living in the North and East. The total population of our country is 21 million, so it is ridiculous to grant police and land powers to a miniscule Tamil population.

The previous government failed to amend the 13th Amendment, deleting police and land powers when they were at the height of their popularity, after ending the war. It is regrettable that the previous regime had no intelligent advisors to advise the politicians.

The present government can muster a 2/3 majority to repeal the 13th Amendment or at least delete police and land powers. Even if the Tamil MPs oppose this, the Joint Opposition will provide the numbers to secure the necessary 2/3 majority, to end this problem once and for all.

As long as the police and land powers in the 13th Amendment remain on the statue book, the LTTE diaspora will pressurise the Tamil politicians to press for it.

Rajiv Gandhis advisors were not intelligent enough to realise that police and land powers in the 13th Amendment (which was hurriedly got up) would affect the security of India and would be political dynamite for India, let alone Sri Lanka. No provincial council including the Northern Provincial Council has enjoyed police and land powers for over quarter century. Why are the Tamil politicians hell bent on securing police and land powers at the behest of the LTTE diaspora, other than to fragment this country with the assistance of the Tamil Nadu politicians and Hilary Clinton?

Why are we paying salaries and giving enormous perks to Tamil politicians to brazenly act in a manner inimical to our country? They, rather than dousing the fires are fanning the flames.

Tamil Nadu politicians who were advocating separation from the central government of India in the 1960s, shut their big mouths when the central government of India introduced the 16th amendment to the Constitution of India. Now, they are attempting by devious means to approach the same issue by first creating a separate state in Sri Lanka which will then be used as a launch pad to create a separate state in Tamil Nadu in India. This is the reason why Tamil Nadu and Tamil politicians want weapons and they are hell bent on getting police and land powers to create a separate state in Sri Lanka.

The 13th Amendment was foisted on our Government by India. It is a wolf in sheeps clothing. This was no legislation that was designed for the benefit of our country. In fact it is detrimental to us. It was drafted by the Rajiv Gandhi Government, and forced on President Jayawardene by using intimidatory tactics. Indian Air Force planes blatantly violating our air space, dropped food parcels over the North and East of Sri Lanka, when our Government forces had cornered the terrorists. Several of our cabinet ministers including the Prime Minister were against this amendment, and did not attend the signing ceremony of the accord, which was hurriedly assembled by JRJ and his cohorts, under curfew.

Tamils in the North, East and South of Sri Lanka are having a better quality of life not having to contribute to fatten the LTTE coffers. They are leading a life free of fear. Their young are not forcibly conscripted to be cannon fodder, but can enjoy free education and a chance to lead a qualitative and a pleasant life. India has a population of 1.1 billion. Only a few thousands (incited by a few Tamil Nadu politicians) want to interfere with Sri Lanka. The vast majority of Indians are not the slightest bit interested in the 13th Amendment.

The threat of carving out a separate state exists even more than when Prabhakaran was using his military might. The diaspora and Tamil Nadu still have Hillary Clinton in their clutches, so much so that when Hillary Clinton visited India she brazenly visited Tamil Nadu only and met the politicians there. She did not visit any other state in India. What is this unholy alliance with the Tamil politicians? Was she pressurised by the LTTE diaspora whom she is under obligation to? The latest gimmick the LTTE diaspora have devised in the US is Tamils for Obama. This is another way of thanking the Obama administration and Hillary Clinton in particular for penalising Sri Lanka at the Human Rights Council in Geneva. And much more is expected from Hillary Clinton. So human rights is a bogus excuse. How can the Sri Lankan Government give police and land powers to the representatives of the LTTE diaspora. This diaspora have vowed to carve out a separate state sooner or later, using police and land powers.

The US country report unambiguously states that the diaspora are collecting funds and that they are in the process of purchasing weapons in order to restart violence.

How the Sri Lankan Government can overcome these arm twisting tactics of Hillary Clinton, the LTTE diaspora, and Tamil Nadu politicians is by holding a referendum in the whole country, as every citizen in Sri Lanka will be affected by the granting of police and land powers, to traitors who are hell bent on dividing the country.

The crafty former Indian High Commissioner J.N. Dixit was like the military governor in Sri Lanka. It must be remembered that thereafter the Indians became a hated lot. We seem to have forgotten within 30 years, the hatred that India brought upon herself, from nearly 21 million Sri Lankans. India interfered in our internal affairs merely to satisfy Prabhakaran and some politicians of the Tamil Nadu Government. The beauty of it is that Prabhakaran himself rejected both the 13th Amendment and the IPKF, and was engaged in a long drawn out battle with the IPKF. The 13th Amendment and the presence of the IPKF gave an excuse for the JVP to raise its head. Sri Lanka doesnt want a recurrence of this scenario. The mighty IPKF withdrew in ignominy.

In the battles between the LTTE and the IPKF, hundreds of innocent Tamils died. Several women were raped by the IPKF soldiers. Two sons of the first speaker of the state council Sir Waithilingam Duraiswamy, happened to be in Jaffna on the day the IPKF walked in there. The scenario was worse than in the wild west in America. Several people including both sons of Sir Waithilingam, were shot for being spectators.

The hatred towards India for pressurising us was so intense, that Rajiv Gandhi who came here to sign the accord, was nearly clobbered by a naval rating, with the butt of his gun. Rajiv escaped death by a whisker.

Now, Indian interests in Sri Lanka are enormous. Do they want to jeopardise all this by pressurising us to implement the 13th Amendment? Dont they realise what dangers it can bring about to India and to the Indian interest here? India is having enough internal problems. Does the Indian Government want to escalate those problems? Have they forgotten that all things imported from India were not permitted to be brought in? President JRJs sister-in-law Dr. Gladys Jayawardene, Chairman of the State Pharmaceutical Corporation was murdered for importing Indian medicines. Several pharmacy owners were killed for stocking Indian medicines. For quite sometime the Indians were a hated race here.

Does Narendra Modi want a recurrence of this? Right now the Indians are highly accepted in Sri Lanka. They should not drive Sri Lanka further into the arms of China, by their short sighted policies. In the 1980s Sri Lanka was not militarily powerful and did not have close friends like China, Russia and many countries of the Middle East. India must tackle the miniscule LTTE diaspora and the handful of Tamil Nadu politicians in a different manner without bending over backwards to appease them, thus jeopardising India as a whole. If Modi continues to give into Tamil Nadu they will keep blackmailing him. You give the Tamils an inch, they will demand a yard.

India must view the 13th Amendment with caution and intelligence and realise that it will be the start of an Eelam War 5. Eelam War 4 was concluded at the cost of many thousands of lives of military personnel and Tamil combatants and Tamil civilians. By giving politically enhanced power to Tamil politicians, it will be used for the achievement of a separate state here, which will eventually be detrimental to India herself. This will be the start of the fragmentation of India.

The 13th Amendment is political dynamite for both India and Sri Lanka.

This LTTE diaspora made/makes money illegally and by unethical means. They are known to bribe international politicians with their ill-gotten collection.

This diaspora are said to be tempting the Tamil politicians with handsome allowances and free holidays abroad. They are being dictated to create an atmosphere which will assist the LTTE diaspora to instigate bedlam once again in Sri Lanka. Now the avenues of making money from innocent Tamils is running dry. They do not want to lose their opulent life styles. It is only a handful of these diaspora members that are up to mischief.

As a result of Rajiv Gandhis short sighted policies he paid the supreme penalty, being murdered in cold blood in a village in Tamil Nadu by the LTTE itself; the very LTTE whom his mother Indira and he were trying to appease. The whole world knows now, and it is indeed admitted by the intelligentsia of India, that the Indira Gandhi Government created the LTTE and nurtured, financed and trained and gave every conceivable assistance for them to create problems in Sri Lanka. Eventually, Indira Gandhis beloved son Rajiv was done to death by the very group she created. She herself was killed as a consequence of Sikh terrorism. How true is the saying, those who live by the sword die by the sword.

The Sri Lanka Tamils in the North, East and South are a happy and contented lot. Only their language problem should be sorted out. All Tamil businessmen are making money hand over fist, all professional are earning a very handsome living without interference. Development in the North and East is going on at an accelerated pace. The refugees have now been systematically settled. The Tamils who were living amidst the Sinhalese people and the Muslims for safety during the war, are now selling their properties in Wellawatte, Kotahena and other parts of Colombo and going back to their villages in the North and East which have become absolutely safe, devoid of the fear and threat of the LTTE. They are not interested in giving additional powers to the LTTE diaspora agents  the Tamil politicians who will in turn make their lives a misery.

They do not want to upset the equilibrium. Those who want to upset it are the Tamil politicians and their acolytes. The Tamil politicians, in addition to their tax-free salaries, free car permits and a host of other perks from the Sri Lankan Government, are also rumoured to be getting huge allowances and free trips abroad from the LTTE diaspora. If that be so, then they are having a very comfortable existence. All they have to do is to prostrate themselves before the active LTTE diaspora and do their bidding, just as they knelt before Prabhakaran and the LTTE. They must give the impression that they are people with a modicum of self respect.

Do the Tamil politicians represent the Tamils of Sri Lanka or the LTTE diaspora who are attempting to reintroduce violence in Sri Lanka, as is borne out by the country report of the US. It is up to the government, to educate the Sri Lankan Tamils that the Tamil politicians are attempting to take away the freedom that they are now enjoying after 30 years of suppression by the LTTE.

The Tamil politicians are clearly violating the 6th amendment to our Constitution.

We have had eight unbroken years of peace. If any violence breaks out, whether it be in the North, East or anywhere else in the country, the Tamil Politicians will be held responsible, for it is because they are stretching every sinew to cater to the LTTE diaspora and Tamil Nadu programme, that such a situation will come about.

The Tamil politicians have conveniently forgotten that if not for the protection they were given by the Sri Lankan Government, they also would have suffered the same fate as Amirthalingam, Sivasithamparan, Yogeswaran et al, at the hands of the LTTE. They are alive today because of the protection given by the forces. They are a very ungrateful lot.

It is an offence in all Western countries to tender material support to a terrorist organization. This is exactly what the Tamil politicians are doing. Small wonder that they are still at large, doing every conceivable inimical thing to our country, in the guise of representing the Tamil people, without being incarcerated or at least questioned on charges of high treason.

They are skating on thin ice.

(The writer is a Presidents Counsel.)
The Cayuga County Sheriff's Office has responded to a state report that concluded that an inmate's death at the jail may have been prevented.

In June 2016, the New York State Commission of Correction filed a final report on the death of Donnie Kenneda, a federal inmate who died at the Cayuga County Jail in 2013. Upon request  pursuant to the Freedom of Information Law  the commission recently released a heavily redacted copy of that report to The Citizen.

The report found that Kenneda, 47, died on Dec. 16, 2013 from dilated cardiomyopathy with congestive heart failure due to hypertension and obesity. However, the commission's Medical Review Board said Kenneda's death "may have been prevented" had his medications been tapered and his symptoms monitored.

Kenneda had been arrested by federal agents in September 2012 for violating his parole in Scranton, Pennsylvania. A convicted felon involved in a series of bank robberies across the country, Kenneda had failed to attend parole or psychiatric appointments as well as substance abuse treatments, which were all conditions of his release.

According to the commission's report, Kenneda had been transferred to five different facilities before being booked at the Cayuga County jail Nov. 25, 2013. But upon his last transfer  from the Albany County Correctional Facility to Cayuga County  Albany County did not provide a detailed summary of Kenneda's medical and psychiatric records, including information regarding the recent discontinuation of medication.

"The information regarding recent discontinuation ... should have been added to the form to assure an assessment of ... status and consideration of reordering upon arrival," the redacted report said.

"We did not get all the paperwork that we usually get when a transfer comes in," Cayuga County Sheriff David Gould added. "Whether a federal or local inmate, we're supposed to know what the last jail was treating them for, and we didn't get all the necessary information."

In addition, both the commission and the sheriff's office found that Kenneda  who had an extensive mental health and cardiac history  had not provided an accurate description of his medical history to jail staff.

"He wasn't forthcoming with his medical history when he came to this jail," Gould said, noting that Kenneda had reported being born in both Cincinnati, Ohio and Syracuse, New York.

For the majority of Kenneda's stay in Cayuga County, the state said his incarceration was "uneventful," with few incidents or behavioral reports issued at the jail. However, during an investigation, the commission found that two inmates had reported Kenneda's condition worsened in the day's leading up to his death.

"Donnie is shaking all over, hands, feet, arms and legs," one of the inmate's wrote in a sick call form dated Dec. 15. "Cannot sleep, is sweating and burning up. ... This has gotten dramatically worse in the last couple of days."

The report also cited a video taken at 6:46 a.m. Dec. 16, which showed Kenneda had an "unsteady gait" and "coarse tremor ... involving both hands" while walking down a hallway to recreation. At 7:05 a.m., after Kenneda returned to his cell, a sergeant reported he saw Kenneda shaking and told an officer he would "have medical see him." Then, 10 minutes later, Kenneda was found unresponsive and a "Code Blue" was called.

According to the commission, the Medical Review Board found two issues in the jail's response: the use of "hands only" CPR and an "inoperable" defibrillator.

"Officer ... began CPR but reported using the 'hands only' technique," the report said. "Per current American Heart Association CPR guidelines, rescue breathing should have been initiated as part of resuscitation efforts.

"(The AED) was attached to Kenneda, however a low battery warning registered indicating the unit was imminently inoperable," the review board added. "CPR continued while a second AED was obtained. ... The responding officers consistently reported that no shocks were delivered."

And despite Emergency Medical Services' efforts in placing an oral airway and continuing CPR, Kenneda was pronounced dead at 7:59 a.m.

In response to the commission's report, the sheriff confirmed that officers used a "hands only" technique while performing CPR. However, he said, that was all officers were required to do.

"At that point in time, that's the only technique we were trained in," Gould said, noting that the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision considered hands-on CPR to be acceptable. "We've since changed that and we've now implemented the rescue breaths. ... But at the time, that's what our guys were trained for and that's what they did."

Meanwhile, in regard to the allegedly inoperable AED unit, the sheriff's office contacted the manufacturer  Zoll  to see if the unit was working properly at the time.

"According to the manufacturer of this AED unit, even though it did say 'charge batteries' the unit was still capable of delivering 50 shocks, plus or minus five," Gould said. "So in our opinion it was working. ... They put it on and it said no shock necessary. We put the second AED on and it said the same thing: 'analyzing, no shock required.'"

In the end, the commission's Medical Review Board provided recommendations to Albany County Correctional Facility and Sheriff Gould, suggesting they review policies for transferring medical records and ensure that rescue breathing and AEDs are properly implemented and maintained. In addition, the commission said Cayuga County Mental Health should ensure all inmate evaluations and risk assessments are completed by "Master's level clinicians only" while establishing a plan for the management of psychiatric medications and an interdisciplinary approach to delivery of mental health care.

"We do what we can here," Gould said. "We've been commended for our jail and our medical staff ... and all we can do is treat (an inmate) for the illnesses we know about and go by what the doctors say.

"(The commission's report) is a doctor's call ... a medical opinion," he added. "Whether our medical doctors in our county would agree with that, I can't say."
Better education, health and providing jobs could be the other highlights of the manifesto. Shah will be accompanied by BJP's senior leaders in Lucknow at the time of releasing the document.

By Press Trust of India: BJP chief Amit Shah will release the party's manifesto for the upcoming Uttar Pradesh Assembly election in Lucknow today.

The manifesto, which will be aimed at wooing youths in particular, is likely to figure improving law and order as its main issue.

Eyeing to regain power in Uttar Pradesh after 15 years, BJP will also make development another important theme of its manifesto.

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Shah will be accompanied by BJP's senior leaders in Lucknow at the time of releasing the document.

CORRUPTION-FREE GOVERNANCE ALSO A PRIORITY

The issue of good, corruption-free governance in the state is likely to be given prominence in the document, a party source said.

Better education, health and providing jobs could be the other highlights of the manifesto.

The saffron party, which is fighting this election on the development plank, is expected to announce some employment generation programmes.

Also read | Amit Shah in huddle with UP BJP leaders to finalise candidates for first two phases

BJP, which is pinning its hopes on non-Yadav Other Backward Castes and non-Jatav SC voters, may mention some specific schemes for the people from these two sections in its manifesto.

The party has so far announced 371 candidates, out of which 80 are Dalits and around 130 are from various backward castes. UP has 403 Assembly seats.

BJP, which had won 71 out of 80 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh, is in a three-way fight with the Samajwadi Party-Congress alliance and the Bahujan Samaj Party for capturing power.

Also read | Post demonetisation, Centre to go big on eradicating black money from politics: Amit Shah

The ruling Samajwadi Party has already announced its manifesto and has promised special ghee for malnourished children and creation of a woman education fund, among various other schemes.

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Efficient operation of the Hambantota port View(s):

By D. Godage

The Government is now finalising a deal to hand over the Hambantota Port on long term lease basis under Public-Private Partnership, though it appears to be a `sale`. Refraining from using the terms `privatisation or `sale, the Hambantota Port is to be managed by a joint venture company formed between the Ports Authority and China Merchant Port Holdings Company where a 20 % stake is held by the Ports Authority, as stated by the Government.

Looking back in history in 1997, the Southern Development Authority called for Expressions of Interest on a multitude of projects under a proposed Ruhunupura development costing some US$ 3.4 billion which included an international seaport from private investment. The concept then was for a port projecting in to the ocean at the Hambantota bay. The primary argument has been the prime location on the traditional shipping route. The Canadian consultancy firm SNC-Lavalin was selected by the Board of Investment in 2000 and had obtained Cabinet approval. The Canadian Government had partly funded the cost of the study at no cost to our government. The feasibility study was the initial part of the Build Operate Transfer (BOT) process to be undertaken by the investor.

SNC-Lavalins 2003 report had concluded that the project is viable as a container port on a BOT basis under a PPP approach. Conclusions spelt three phased development totaling 11 berths with 10 million TEU ultimate capacity reaching in 20 years at ultimate cost US$ 1.48 billion. Stage 1 was scheduled to be operational in early 2009. Incidentally the construction contract with Chinese loan funds had in fact been signed in 2007 and construction started in 2007. The report expected the Colombo Ports total capacity to be 3.4 million TEUs which means no further expansion. So this assumption appears not true. Later the Steering Committee appointed by the Ports Authority had concluded this report to be non-bankable.

Meanwhile the Ministry of Ports Development and Development of the South with the Ports Authority had called for tenders in 2001 and selected the international consultancy firm Ramboll, of Denmark, to carry out a feasibility study for the Hambantota Port development and the cost was to be borne by the Ports Authority. This report seems to have come out in 2006 but was not seen by the writer. The layout plans used in the construction appear similar to those presented by Ramboll.

The proposed Hambantota Port was brought under the Ports Authority under the SLPA Act by Gazette notification on 8 November 2001. The project office was opened in November 2001 by the Minister of Ports, Shipping and Fisheries Mahinda Rajapaksa. Some were keen to carry the Hambantota project as an urgent one and even critical in Colombo South Port development. As stated, construction on the Hambantota Port commenced in 2007 while the Colombo South Harbour construction started in 2008 using an Asian Development Bank loan after completing a feasibility study and business plan with the banks assistance. Now both ports are operational and everyone can see the success of the South Container Terminal on a BOT basis and the competition created for the next terminal namely the East Terminal in Colombo.

Lately some opposition politicians have started talking about the Kra Canal in support of Hambantota. No shipper, consultant or expert had talked about the Kra Canal in any of the studies on Hambantota or Colombo. What is the Kra Canal? It is a canal to cut across the narrow strip of Southern Thailand some 100 km long to by-pass Malacca Straits to shorten voyages by 1,200 km for China entering the Indian Ocean. The canal is said to cost over US$ 28 billion, taking about 10 years to construct. It had been proposed initially a long time ago, in 1677 it is said. This canal will affect Singapore and Malaysia but will benefit Sri Lanka with bigger volumes both in Colombo and Hambantota. Like Sethusamudram Canal it is talked of once in a while.

Now if we look at Hambantota Port the port operations started in November 2010 and after six years, in 2016, an operating profit of US$1.81 million is reported which is far too short to proceed with loan repayment. The Government therefore has no option other than handing it over to a reputed port operator to ensure income to the Government to at least meet the loan component.

Available information shows the total cost of two phases of the Port as US$ 1.4 billion and the selected investor is paying US$ 1.12 billion in advance covering an 80% stake. The lease period is given as 99 years extendable by another 99 years. The whole port facility has 10 or 11 berths and about 2,500 hectares of land attached to the port. It is not clear if the oil tank facility is also included. The upfront lease payment works out to US$ 11.3 million per year for 99 years on a current value basis and is quite inadequate for such a massive completed port asset. Any other revenue streams to the Government or Ports Authority are not known. The lease period of less than 50 years would have been acceptable and any extension is to be considered at that time and decided amicably.

Previously two container terminals in Colombo were given out on a BOT basis for a 35 year lease period and in both the private investors built the terminals and equipped them with their own funds. The South Asia Gateway Terminal has been operational for over 15 years and South Container Terminal in South Harbour under CICT has also been operating successfully. CICT had reached two million TEUs in 2016 in the second year of operation, incidentally equal to the designed capacity of Hambantota Phase 1. The Ports Authority earns an annual lease payment, royalty fee on every container handled, port entry dues, wharfage charge, dividends on a 15% share etc, from them. Whereas revenue streams in respect of the Hambantota Port are not known to the public.

Some point out that there was no bidding for the Hambantota Port. It is a transparent process but not mandatory. When offers were called in 1996 for the Colombo Port QEQ lease there was only one offer and that too was an alternative offer. The Colombo South Container Terminal lease invitation in 2007 brought in five offers but a Cabinet decision in 2008 cancelled it. The call for fresh bids brought in only one offer. Bid calling for Hambantota may not have yielded a better result. Questions that prevail are on the terms and conditions applicable to the deal.

Considering the huge debt burden of over US$ 1.1 billion on this port alone, some drastic measures need to be taken to escape from the present situation. Of course the Government must explain relevant information and educate the public so that everything remains transparent on this national issue tying down future generations without their consent.

(The writer was the Chief Engineer at the port, Managing Director of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority and a Project Director at the Colombo South Harbour.)
By Press Trust of India: Dhaka, Jan 27 (PTI) A 45-year-old man in Bangladesh accused of secretly marrying 28 times has been arrested and sent to jail over dowry harassment complaint filed by his 25th wife, a media report said.

Yasin Byapari was arrested by the police from his 27th wifes home at Taltali area of Barguna district.

A court sent him to jail in the dowry case filed by his 25th wife Shiuli Akhter Tania, bdnews24.com reported.

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Tania said she married Yasin in 2011 and after the birth of a daughter, she discovered she was not the only wife of her husband. In fact, she was "his 25th wife!", the report said.

After she came to know this, she managed to trace the names and addresses of 17 of her husbands spouses.

She claimed Yasin has two daughters with his second wife, one son with his third wife, one son with his seventh wife and a daughter with his 24th wife.

She said after their marriage, Yasin cited work as an excuse to often stay away from home. At one point, he began to assault her physically while demanding dowry, the report said.

"Then without informing me, he married a girl from Matibhanga area of Rajapur Sadar Upazila. But the girl divorced Yasin after she discovered his exploits," she alleged.

"Then in 2015, he married a Chittagong-based girl from Taltali. But he did not take her to his house and went on to marry a garment worker from Khulna," she said.

Although Tania provided the name and address of her husband, police have not been able to corroborate the claims.

Tania filed the case with the Khulna Chief Judicial Magistrate, implicating Yasin in a dowry case on September 29 last year, a senior police officer said.

In her complaint, Tania accused Yasin of suppressing information and marrying 28 times, he said. Yasin, however, had confessed to marrying only twice during preliminary interrogation. PTI CPS AKJ CPS

--- ENDS ---
The Bay of Plentys biggest cruise ship season ever continues with vessel Silver Whisper in Tauranga today.

Operated by Silversea Cruises, the vessel carrying 432 passengers and 295 crew members arrived at the Port of Tauranga from Auckland shortly before 7.30am and will depart for Gisborne at 5pm.

The cruise ship measures 186 metre long and 24.9 metres wide, has a gross tonnage of 28,258 and a top speed of 18.5 knots. It features seven decks and is registered in the Bahamas.

Silver Whispers visit is part of the biggest cruise ship season on record for the Bay of Plenty, with 83 ship visits scheduled, carrying 153,000 passengers  including five ships berthing overnight in Tauranga.
This years Molly Morpeth Canaday Award for painting and drawing, worth $10,000, has been won by Auckland artist Kirstin Carlin.

She was one of thirteen artists to receive recognition on Friday night, as part of the Whakatane Summer Arts Festival.

Carlins painting Through the Trees (Thirteen) was described by 2017 judge Felicity Milburn as having a sheer look at me audacity.

A feisty freshness pervades this painting; a welcome shot of visual adrenalin delivered directly through the eyeballs, says Felicity.

Kirstins work can be appreciated on a number of levels; as a high-voltage re-imagining of the work-worn landscape genre; as a study in colour (those glowing greens, and lustrous pinks jostling up against creamy neutrals); or as a technical exercise in construction, with spatial relationships vigorously amplified and outlined in black. Thats all there, and ready to be enjoyed.

Anyone who doubts for a moment the importance of the arts to our national DNA should be encouraged to judge a competition such as this. It never fails to impress and encourage me to see tangible evidence of the skill, imagination and commitment that exists in the studios and workrooms around New Zealand.

The Molly Morpeth Canaday Award exhibition is a cornerstone event in the Whakatane Summer Arts Festival. This year the award attracted 430 entries from artists throughout the country. The exhibition of 80 selected works continues at Te Koputu/Whakatane Library and Exhibition Centre until March 12.

Major Award - $10,000

Sponsored by Molly Morpeth Canaday Trust

KIRSTIN CARLIN (New Lynn, Auckland)

Through the Trees (Thirteen)

Oil on board

Craigs Investment Partners Youth Art Award - $2,500

ANITA FROST (Auckland)

Drawing of the alphabet

Pen

Highly Commended

Arts Whakatane Award - $1,000

RAEWYN WHALEY (Auckland)

Between

Oil on canvas

Highly Commended

Pullar Family Trust Award - $1,000

MICHELLE REID (Riverhead)

Afterimage Series 5/6/7/8

Ink and acrylic on board

Highly Commended

Akel Family Award $1,000

DONNA-MARIE PATTERSON (Christchurch)

Moonlight Secrets

Hand drawn ink on 100% cotton paper

Highly Commended

Marion and Jack Schulte Award $1,000

V, I EDWARDS+JOHANN (Christchurch)

On the Seam of Things  Constellations #8

Drawing on C-type photograph

Merit Award - $500

Sponsored by Browne School of Art

FRANCIS VAN HOUT (Christchurch)

Colour Field, Grey Space

Oil on board.

Merit Award - $500

Sponsored by 4 Art Sake Gallery

ESTHER DEANS (Avondale)

Self Portrait

Oil on canvas

Merit Award - $500

Sponsored by Scott Jarrett at Professionals

CONNAH PODMORE (Wellington)

Wall, 8.25 pm

Charcoal on paper

Merit Award - $500

Sponsored by Hon. Anne Tolley MP and Whakatane Society of Arts and Crafts

DENISE DURKIN (Wellington)

Virginia 2

Charcoal on paper

Merit Award - $500

Sponsored by Gordon Harris Ltd (product value)

SAM DOLLIMORE (Porirua)

(Whos To Blame For These) Terrible Manhandles

Ink pen on paper

Merit Award - $500

Sponsored by Frames by Daniel  (product value)

JOSEPHINE CACHEMAILLE (Nelson)

Dark Roller

Acrylic on boar

Local Artist Award - $500

Sponsored by Ross and Kay Boreham & Accounting Biz Limited

MANDY HAGUE (Whakatane)

Its the Real Thing

Acrylic on cotton rag paper
By Press Trust of India: Guwahati, Jan 27 (PTI) The Assam and Bhutan governments have decided to share intelligence inputs betweeen them at a meeting here today, as they discussed mechanism for vibrant entry-exit mechanism to give an impetus to industry and commerce.

The state further agreed to a proposal for setting up of a Consulate General Office of Royal Government of Bhutan in Guwahati and conveyed willingness to the Ministry of External Affairs.

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Vowing to share intelligence inputs between Assam and Bhutan to put a tab on terrorist activities, the meeting between state government officials and officials from the Department of Law and Order, Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs of Bhutan also pitched for a vibrant entry-exit mechanism to give an impetus to industry and commerce between Assam and Bhutan, an official statement said.

In the meeting which aimed at strengthening bilateral ties between the two neighbours, Assam government ratified the proposal of the Bhutan government for setting up of a Consulate General Office in Guwahati and conveyed its decision to the Ministry of External Affairs.

The five-member delegation from Bhutan discussed a wide spectrum of issues with the senior officers of the state governments Home and Political Department, it said.

The two sides further discussed the existing boundaries that Assam shared with Bhutan and exchanged inputs on missing boundary pillars and vowed to take immediate steps to address the issue, the release added.

The officers also decided to carry forward the strong connection between Assam and Bhutan and work for strengthening the mutual ties between them.

Principal Secretary Home and Political Hemanta Narzary, Commissioner and Secretary Home and Political L S Changsan, DGP (Border) R M Singh, Special DGP Law and Order Kuladhar Saikia, ADGP (SB) Pallab Bhattacharjee, Secretary Home and Political M Hazarika represented the Government of Assam.

Bhutan was represented by its Director Law and Order Tashi Tenjore, Deputy Director Department of Law and Order Chorten Namgay, Deputy Director Department of Law and Order Karma Dorje, Under Secretary Department of Law and Order Yeshey Dorji. PTI ESB SUS KIS

--- ENDS ---
Here's how Kolkata's Chinatown is celebrating the Chinese New Year, ushering the year of Rooster.

By India Today Web Desk: Today happens to be the Chinese New Year, and China isn't the only place celebrating the special day.

At the stroke of midnight, the bell on Beijing's central bell tower was rung 108 times ushering the year of Rooster, as the night sky lit up with fireworks. Meanwhile, here in India, people joined in to celebrate in their own ways.

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Also read: 2017 is the year of Rooster: All about Chinese New Year

Kolkata's Chinatown, which is inhabited by many families with Chinese descent, lit up with colourful dragons and fireworks as the festivities kicked in about a week before the New Year's Day.

Also read: Delhi to celebrate Chinese New Year, 2017

Take a look at these pictures of the celebrations taking place here this year:

Source: ANI Source: ANI

Source: ANI

Source: ANI

Source: ANI

Source: ANI

Source: ANI

--- ENDS ---
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NASA will salute its fallen heroes including the crews of Apollo 1 and space shuttles Challenger and Columbia at a ceremony to be held Tuesday, Jan. 31 on the Day of Remembrance.

On the day, at Virginia's Arlington National Cemetery NASA Acting Administrator Robert Lightfoot and senior officials will lay the wreath and hold an observance at 11 a.m. EST.

Similar events will be held at various NASA centers honoring the employees and the families of those lost in the cause of the space agency's programs.

Apollo 1 Commemoration

The 50th anniversary of the Apollo 1 tragedy will be commemorated at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 26. To be held at the Astronauts Memorial Foundation hall in the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, it will be telecast live on NASA Television and the website.

The tributes will recall the three NASA tragedies in a span of three decades. The Apollo 1 tragedy of Jan. 27, 1967 was a fire accident as the module of the spacecraft caught fire and killed astronauts Ed White, Gus Grissom, and Roger Chaffee.

They were working on a launch pad test at in Florida's Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.

The Challenger exploded shortly after its launch on Jan 28, 1986, and mission commander Francis Dick Scobee and others lost lives.

A probe revealed that Challenger was failed by an "O-ring" seal on the shuttle's solid rocket booster by an accidental hardening.

Columbia splintered into pieces when it was re-entering the Earth's atmosphere on Feb. 1, 2003, under a fatal snag. A damage in the insulating foam during the shuttle's launch led to hot atmospheric gases entering the wing's interior. The mishap killed seven astronauts.

New Mission

Meanwhile, NASA is readying for a different kind of rocket launch for exploring mysteries like Earth's auroras.

The rockets will zoom into the Earth's upper atmosphere to study the magnetic environment of Earth and examine a slew of phenomena including auroras and solar winds in the near-Earth space, NASA said.

The missions are expected to reveal more about the planet and broaden understanding of the low-Earth orbit environment.

The first mission will focus on nitric oxide, NASA said. The launch window for PolarNOx mission will be open from Jan. 19 to Jan. 31. The rockets will study Earth's atmosphere in the polar region and try to measure the nitric oxide formed during the northern lights.

Meanwhile, the Baker Institute for Public Policy has unveiled a paper for NASA urging it to reestablish a human spaceflight program.

The mention in President Trump's inaugural address of "mysteries of space" is indicative that NASA will be part of the administration's reformatory plans.

The policy agenda for NASA was written by George W. S. Abbey. Titled "Why NASA Should Change Its Present Course," the paper by Abbey outlines the case of NASA needing to concentrate on a human spaceflight in keeping with the agency's reputation and a hefty budget.

 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Doctors in Canada have taken desperate measures in the face of a desperate situation: They removed a young mothers lungs for six days while she waited for a transplant.

The procedure was thought to be a world first - a drastic solution amid the urgent need for a lung transplant.

Last-Ditch Procedure

In April last year, 32-year-old Melissa Benoit was rushed to a hospital in Toronto for a severe lung infection, with doctors realizing soon enough that she only had hours to live. She was suffering respiratory failure from a recent case of influenza, getting into a spiral from which her lungs were not going to recover, recounted Dr. Niall Ferguson in a media conference.

While on temporary life support, Benoit came within an inch of her life. The bacteria in her lungs were largely antibiotic-resistant, sending her into septic shock and lowering her blood pressure dramatically. Her organs also started to shut down.

The team of doctors came up with a daring plan to save her, which was to remove both lungs to eliminate the source of infection. Many unintended consequences were anticipated, including her plunging oxygen and blood pressure levels.

Ferguson, part of the University Health Network managing the Toronto hospital, shared they proceeded with the difficult discussion despite not having seen any recourse of that kind done before.

Dr. Shaf Keshavjee, director of the lung transplant program, was one of the three surgeons who handled Benoit and part of the 13-member team that performed the nine-hour procedure to remove the badly infected lungs.

[W]e could barely pry it out of her chest, Keshavjee said of each heavy, rock-like lung they extricated.

Staying Alive

The patient was supported by two machines, namely a Novalung that filled her blood with oxygen while taking carbon dioxide out, and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for helping the heart pump the blood throughout the body.

In about 20 minutes post-lung removal, Benoits blood pressure stabilized and she could be left on the pumps that offer the circulation, the surgeon added.

In five to six days, donor lungs matched her blood type and size, so they proceeded with the transplant, which turned out to be successful. From there, Benoit began to recover her strength after months spent in the hospital and muscles so spent that she could not even lift her hand, sit up, or stand.

She was also left with damaged kidneys but is hoping to recover enough to receive a kidney transplant from her own mother.

Benoit said it took her a while to realize everything that happened.

You really come from the brink of death to back living at home, she shared, saying she is happy and grateful to be finally home.

The teams report was discussed in the Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery.

In what appeared as a Christmas miracle, 5-month-old Daniel McCabe from Wisconsin found an organ match in 40 minutes and successfully underwent liver transplant last December.

The short wait that Daniel, who suffered biliary atresia, had to go through was quite unusual as the typical waiting period for a liver lasts 86 days for kids and 149 days for adults.

 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Alcatel will reportedly introduce not one, or two, or three, but five smartphones at this year's Mobile World Congress, according to a new report which cites "reliable sources" for provenance.

Details about these five smartphone are thin, if not largely nonexistent, although word has apparently been circulating that out of the five handsets, one is poised to deliver a modular scheme, although the extent of its modularity remains to be speculated  will it be more like Google's ill-fated Project Ara, or the LG G5?

Alcatel Modular Phone

Early rumors, as reported by Android Headlines, point to something that parallels Motorola's Mods schtick, in which different add-ons can be strapped onto the back of the device for extra functionality. What's more, it's also being passed around that the modular phone will rock a 13-megapixel rear camera that comes with a dual-tone LED flash. Finally, the phone will be powered by a MediaTek octa-core processor, according to the report.

It's unclear whether these brand new set of  alleged, keep in mind  smartphones will be a brand-new Alcatel lineup, or whether they'd be added to the presently existing Alcatel A-series, which was launched at CES 2017 earlier this year.

The report, which comes from Hungarian site Tech2 (translated), suggests that the alleged modular Alcatel smartphone will cost at least 100,000 HUF, which, by virtue of a rough conversion, translates a little under $350 when it hits stateside. At that price point, the smartphone looks to be a mid-range offering, although if it ends up delivering on its alleged promise of a modular concept, then this could be the perfect price point for users who want to hop onto the modular bandwagon at a fair price.

Alcatel's Four Other Rumored Smartphones

As mentioned, there are virtually no details surrounding the four other smartphones Alcatel will reportedly unveil at the MWC, which will happen late February in Barcelona, Spain. Notably, the original report states that there will be "five models," which could easily mean five variants of the same smartphone, instead of five separate and standalone models. Also, it's unclear whether the other four will sport modular features as well. At any rate, Tech2 was able to provide what's purportedly a screenshot of the modular device, which showcases one of the modular features available.

The phone's particular back panel is said to make use of LEDs to offer a sort of "pulse" effect when music is playing. The report makes mention of the JBL Pulse line as an example of the effect, although it's not clear whether the back panel will be manufactured by a third-party audio company.

Modularity in smartphones is quite a risk, as exemplified by Project Ara's struggle to come into fruition, or even the LG G5, replete with its numerous issues and eventual layoffs LG had to perform just to offset the handset's poor sales.

Anyhow, we'll see how Alcatel takes a crack at it, if the alleged modular device ends up being true. Alcatel is poised to unveil the phone on Feb. 26 during its press conference.

Would you buy a modular phone from Alcatel? Does modularity have a future in the smartphone industry? Feel free to sound off in the comments section below!

 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
The Microsoft HoloLens augmented reality headset went on sale in 2016. The developer edition of the headset was priced at $3,000.

The AR headset was primarily designed for developers as well as commercial customers who want to transform their busines.

Roger Walkden, head of Microsoft HoloLens, revealed at the Bett education technology conference in the UK that the headset has only sold "thousands" since it became available for purchase in November 2016.

While the number may not be very encouraging, Walkden did not seem disheartened and stressed that Microsoft is happy with the sales figures as the product is expensive and not designed for the mass market.

"We're not trying to sell hundreds of thousands or millions or anything, it's expensive, and it's not in huge numbers. So we're happy with the level of sales that we've got - I can't tell you anything about the numbers, but it's in thousands, not hundreds of thousands, and that's fine. That's all we need," said Walkden at the conference.

Walkden did not reveal any more information regarding Microsoft's future plans for the development of the HoloLens. However, he affirmed that there is a plan in place but joked that Microsoft does not share this kind of classified information with him as it fears that he will accidently disclose the details.

"I have no news for you on when those will be. But the road map does exist," said Walkden.

Companies like HP, Dell, Lenovo, Asus, and Acer have all started creating their own Windows 10 virtual reality headsets. Microsoft has also implied that the company's partners could also create HoloLens counterparts at a low cost for the mass market to enjoy VR.

Microsoft HoloLens Development Edition Specs

Microsoft HoloLens brings together components like multiple sensors, advanced optics, and a custom holographic processing unit to make holographic computing possible.

The headband of the headset is designed for utmost comfort as the weight is distributed around the crown of the head, keeping the user's ears and nose safe from undue pressure. The adjustable wheel makes the headband fit easily on various head sizes.

The headset is made of see-through holographic lens equipped with two HD light engines with 16:9 aspect ratio. The headset is capable of automatic papillary distance calibration. To achieve bright and rich holograms, the headset comes with a holographic density of 2.5k radiants.

To capture accurate information of the user's environment, the headset sensors are equipped with four "environment understanding" cameras, along with four microphones and one ambient light sensor.

The headset has built-in speakers and a 3.5mm headphone jack along with a micro USD 2.0 port.

Price And Availability

Interested buyers can purchase the developer's edition of the HoloLens from Microsoft's online store for $3,000. The product packaging will contain the developer's edition HoloLens, a clicker, a carrying case, a microfiber cloth for cleaning, a charger along with cable, nosepads, and an overhead strap.

Photo: Jean-Pierre Dalbera | Flickr

 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg has voiced his concerns on the recent signing of the executive order by President Donald Trump and its possible implications.

Zuckerberg expressed his thoughts in a post shared on Facebook, calling for the focus to be on the bigger picture.

"We need to keep this country safe, but we should do that by focusing on people who actually pose a threat," noted Zuckerberg.

He believes that increasing the law enforcement's focus to people who are not the real threats will make the compromise the safety of the U.S. citizens as this move would divert resources. Moreover, several million people who are undocumented - and are not a threat to the country's safety - would be living in perennial fear of being deported.

The Facebook CEO did not shy away from mentioning that his great grandparents hailed from countries like Germany, Austria and Poland. He also mentioned briefly about his wife Priscilla Chan, whose parents were refugees from China and Vietnam to hit home the message that America was a potpourri of cultures. An amalgamation of different ethnicities. America he believes benefits when the brightest talent from the globe is able to live and work in harmony, contributing to the country's economy.

He went on to share that it is a country of people who have settled here as immigrants and it is a matter of great pride. Zuckerberg mentioned that America should keep an open mind and welcome refugees, as well as people who were in need of help.

Praising Trump

Zuckerberg also lauded Trump's willingness to work out a few viable options for immigrants who had arrived into the country as children.

"I was glad to hear President Trump say he's going to "work something out" for Dreamers -- immigrants who were brought to this country at a young age by their parents," he added.

Zuckerberg, also shared that currently nearly 750,000 people benefitted from the DACA program offered by the U.S. government. This initiative lets people work and reside legally in the country. He was optimistic that the new government would not remove these protections and continue the good work.

Helping Immigrants

Mark Zuckerberg, has advocated increasing the number of immigrants coming to the U.S.

In 2013, Zuckerberg had provided assistance in launching a non-profit called FWD.us. This was focused on providing impetus to various reforms in the immigration process.

Zuckerberg has shared that along with the FWD.us team, he would device ways to help people.

FWD incidentally has come out with a statement recently expressing critical views over the executive orders recently passed by Trump.

 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Countering Somaiya's allegations, Shewale said, "If there is mafia raj why Somaiya is not taking name of that mafia? Somaiya doesn't know the functioning of BMC. BMC falls under urban development headed by CM. Being urban development head, CM should answer about all scams which Somaiya feels happened in the BMC."

By Mayuresh Ganapatye: After breakup with BJP, Shiv Sena, who was silent on corruption charges against them at BMC level, today alleged that CM Devendra Fadnavis should be held responsible for all scam allegations as BMC falls under urban development department and CM is the head of that department.

Rahul Shewale, Shiv Sena MP, had called a press conference after Kirit Somaiya said that BJP will release black paper of scam in BMC soon. Countering Somaiya's allegations, Shewale said, "If there is mafia raj why Somaiya is not taking name of that mafia? Somaiya doesn't know the functioning of BMC. BMC falls under urban development headed by CM. Being urban development head, CM should answer about all scams which Somaiya feels happened in the BMC."

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Also read: BJP-Shiv Sena split: Did Uddhav snap 25-year-old alliance for Raj Thackeray?

Shewale also clarified that whatever scams or irregularities happened in BMC they were probed by police and proper investigation took place and moreover defaulters and culprits were sent to jail. He also stated that those contractors who were found guilty were not paid by the BMC.

Shewale alleged that to tarnish the image of Shiv Sena, BJP MP Kirit Somaiya is levelling such vague allegations. " Somaiya was protesting against Mulund dumping ground. We feel this protest was just to help some private builder who has got land nearby this Mulund dumping ground. There is toilet scam in Somaiya's constituency where lot of irregularities took place, why he was silent on that ?" asked Rahul Shewale.

Also read: Shiv Sena chief says no alliance with BJP for Mumbai civic polls

From beginning of alliance talks, Sena alleged that BJP was insisting on issue of 'transparency' in BMC. BJP leaders were talking about 'mafia raj' in BMC and making indirect allegations without naming Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray. Due to which Sena leaders got hurt. Now, Sena has planned to attack BJP leaders and unearth their scams in BMC and in state govt.

Sena leaders are planning to unearth BJP's involvement in scams which have not come out. Before BMC election they want show people how corrupt BJP is.

--- ENDS ---
Days after taking office as the 45th president of the United States, Donald Trump executed a directive which would sanction the building of the proposed Mexico wall to fend off illegal immigrants.

Close on the heels of the executive order, Trump went ahead and restricted funding for abortion services in the United States that are offered by foreign groups.

Barely has the dust settled, and the president has managed to ruffle some feathers by suspending the United States refugee program as well as banning visa issuance for nationals of six countries.

According to a report by the BBC, Trump has banned Syrian refugees from entering the United States until further notice, as well as suspended their visa issuance. Moreover, he has also stopped the issuance of visas to six other countries which include Iraq, Iran, Libya, Sudan, Somalia, and Yemen.

The visa issuance to these countries has been halted for three months and people would be hoping that this is a temporary measure and does not translate into a permanent order. The president's move is a bid to "keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the US."

The Executive Order

Under the terms of the executive order, refugee admissions to the United States are halted for the next four months. Trump signed the order after a swearing-in ceremony for the new defense secretary Gen. James Mattis.

"I'm establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America. We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people," said Trump.

The move by Trump has been criticized and condemned by human rights advocates, who assert that Syrian refugees and terrorism are not linked.

Measures Advocated By The Order

The order decrees several measures, such as a ban on Syrian refugees till "significant changes" are administered. The United States Refugee Admissions Program has been suspended for 120 days.

Only some visa categories such as diplomats from Iran, Libya, Syria, Iraq, Yemen, Somalia, and Sudan will be granted a visa for the United States. Any other nationals of these countries will be debarred from getting a visa to the country because of the 90-day suspension.

Future applications from refugees, who have been mistreated because of their religious beliefs, would be prioritized, but there is a caveat  only if the individual belongs to a minority in their own country.

In 2017, the United States would grant asylum only to 50,000 refugees, which is way less than the limit set by the Obama government. The order decrees that all the immigration programs will be required to have questions that "evaluate the applicant's likelihood of becoming a positively contributing member of society."

Visa applications to the United States would likely become a more rigid process, as the measures include a thorough review of the information needed from other countries for visa approval. The visa scheme between countries will likely be reviewed to confirm it is "truly reciprocal" for American citizens. The Visa Interview Waiver Program would get suspended as well.

The silver lining in the order is that many of the restrictions may be excluded on the basis of a specific case.

 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Gear up for the second edition of the Cocktail Week, scheduled from February 4 to February 11.

The second edition of the Cocktail Week is in the Capital from February 4 to February 11.

By Karishma Kuenzang: Ideal for those who are always on the lookout for a new concoction of their favourite poison, the second edition of the Cocktail Week is in the Capital from February 4 to February 11 and it promises to be one week of cocktail competitions, workshops and exciting new mixes at discounted prices.

A part of the worldwide celebration of the cocktail culture and nightlife, the event is spread across more than 30 different restaurants and bars in Delhi-NCR.

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"India has a very basic alcohol culture and people consume very basic drinks. The Cocktail Week, which is open to all patrons, gives people an opportunity to explore exotic or signature cocktails at the participating bars and restaurants. Each venue will serve three-four cocktails for about Rs 300-400 each," says Archit Singhal, founder of Delhi Cocktail Week.

The week will also see over 20 cocktail-related events. The bartending competition on February 7 at Q'la will have around 100 bartenders fight it out. "We will also have a movie night, wine tasting, a global pop up in collaboration with an NGO, a food pairing session as well as a pajama themed party. Throughout the week, we'll also have a bunch of expat bartenders making and serving drinks," says Archit.

The festivities will also include a session on food photography.

"Most bars don't have great pictures of their drinks, which is why this session will be really important," he adds.

Evgenya Prazdnik, a Russian mixologist and bartender who has completed six years in India and 12 years in the industry, will be one of the judges for the bartending competitions taking place during the Cocktail Week. She has hosted a master class and judged competitions in the maiden edition of the event last year and is back to give cocktail enthusiasts a taste of Russian flavours.

She is preparing five cocktails for the week, using advanced techniques as well as ingredients brought from Moscow One of her drinks, called the Tovarish, is a twisted iconic Russian drink, with local touch. Comprising vodka on rye bread, coffee liqueur and smoked condensed milk syrup, the drink is well-stirred and served with grilled rye mini-toast.

"I will also be giving one of the drinks an Oriental concept and use butterfly pea tea infused gin, elderflower, riesling and bubbles, to make a ph active, colour changing tipsy tea."

Evgenya will also be conducting a master class wherein she will talk about how various ingredients can be replaced by something similar in case the bar runs out of stock as well as the real cost of drinks, which she opines will help budding bartenders. Apart from Q'la, Delhi Cocktail Week will rage across restaurants like PCO, ATM, Ek Bar, Hungry Monkey and Social among others.Warming up your Winters Cocktails & Dreams, Speakeasy, in Gurugram, this Sunday has a cocktail workshop. The twohour workshop will see awardwinning mixologist, consultant and co-owner of the venue, Yangdup Lama, teach patrons how to shake, stir, muddle and make seasonal cocktails, including a mix of warm cocktails, using a wide range of ingredients. Priced at Rs 1,500, the workshop includes four cocktails, a coaster set and two vegetarian and two non-vegetarian starters. Preregistration is mandatory!

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WHERE: Cocktails & Dreams, Speakeasy, Sector 15, Part II, Gurugram

WHEN: January 29; 5pm to 7pm

Romancing with Tequila

Give your palate the complete Mexican experience at the Tacos & Tequila Festival at 7 Degrees Brauhaus and its Sombrero Sunday Brunch. While the former will feature a wide range of tequila (price of premium tequila brands starting at Rs 249) and tacos followed by some dancing, the brunch will include the signature spicy salsa and live grill with a Mexican twist.

WHERE: 7 Degrees Brauhaus, Rivaayat, Shop No. 310, 311, South Point Mall

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WHEN: Tacos & Tequila Festival - January 27 and 28 Sombrero Sunday Brunch-January 29

Vodka tales from all over

This one is for those who love their vodka. One of the top vodka bars in Delhi with 56 brands of vodkas from across the globe, Aura in The Claridges, in association with QualeMagni, recently launched Ukrainian brand Khortytsa, the third highest selling vodka in the world. The brand is most popular for its Khortytsa Ice, which comes in a bottle that changes colours when it's chilled. The vodka is the perfect blend of aromatic mint, lime and menthol varieties of ethanol. Khortytsa Ice has a subtle floral flavour. So, if you like vodka, then head to Aura and give it a shot.

WHERE: Aura, The Claridges, 12, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Road

Drink them all

The Piano Man Jazz Club and Dirty Apron together have tempting offers on their alcohol menu. Patrons can win 10 free drinks by participating their cocktail challenge, in which the first one to try the over 30 unique cocktails on the menu in the month of February gets 10 free cocktails over the period of the next month.

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WHERE: Dirty Apron and The Piano Man Jazz Club, Safdarjung Enclave market

WHEN: Dirty Apron - 12 pm to 8 pm; The Piano Man Jazz Club - 7 pm to 8pm

-For info on other places, visit www.delhicocktailweek.com

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The Venezuelan government will increase cooperation with Colombia's military and police forces to face transnational crimes caused by drug trafficking, announced Friday by the Minister of... | Read More
One of the accused, Sanjay Kumar Tiwari, had recently posed as the National General Secretary of BJP, Ram Madhav, and tried to dupe a Jharkhand minister by asking for donations for party fund.

By Chayyanika Nigam: The Delhi Crime Branch on Friday arrested two men for extorting money from politicians and babus while posing as officials from the Prime Minister's office or as RSS functionaries.

One of the accused, Sanjay Kumar Tiwari, had recently posed as the National General Secretary of BJP, Ram Madhav, and tried to dupe a Jharkhand minister by asking for donations for party fund, police said.

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The minister, Amar Kumar Burari, learnt he was been conned when he paid an unplanned visit to Madhav and found Madhav had not asked for any contributions and the phone call he received was fake. He then filed a complaint at the Crime Branch, who advised Burari to play unsuspicious and used him to lay a trap. Police said that Tiwari called again, posing as Ram Madhav, and finalized a deal for a contribution of Rs 2 lakh. Tiwari along with his associate Gaurav Sharma was arrested when they tried to collect the amount.

HISTORY-SHEETER

Cops said Tiwari has a history of conning ministers. He was arrested in October last year, but was released on bail within a month.

He confessed to the police of cheating several BJP and Congress ministers, especially from the North East. Police said he used to introduce himself as the personal assistant of Sonia Gandhi and also used the cover of other senior BJP leaders to fool the politicians. He has 11 cases of cheating and impersonation pending against him, the cops said. "He lured victims with temptations of giving tickets, greater role in party or other favours. He would pose as a person of great clout and convince he could help them," said Ravindra Yadav, Joint Commissioner of Police.

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Google's CEO criticised US President Trump's controversial move to severely restrict entry of people from seven Muslim-majority countries into the US. Google has recalled its travelling staff, following the order.

By Press Trust of India: Google's India-born CEO Sundar Pichai today criticised President Donald Trump's controversial immigration order targeting people from seven Muslim-majority countries, saying it will create "barriers" to bringing great talent to the US, as the Internet search giant ordered its travelling staff to return to America.

Pichai in an email to staff said the US ban on foreign nationals from seven Muslim-majority countries will hit at least 187 Google employees.

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'PAINFUL' TO SEE EFFECT OF ORDER

"We're upset about the impact of this order and any proposals that could impose restrictions on Googlers and their families, or that could create barriers to bringing great talent to the US," the Wall Street Journal quoted Pichai as saying in the email.

"It is painful to see the personal cost of this executive order on our colleagues," he said.

Google has recalled around 100 of its affected staff from overseas, the BBC reported.

Also read: Rights groups slam Donald Trump's plans on Muslim immigrants, refugees

TRUMP BARS ENTRY OF SYRIAN REFUGEES

President Trump has ordered "extreme vetting" of people entering the US from seven Muslim-majority countries and banned the entry of Syrian refugees until further notice, as part of new measures to "keep radical Islamic terrorists" out of America. The countries impacted are Iran, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Libya, Yemen and Somalia.

The controversial move, signed a week after he was sworn-in as the president of the US, fulfills the vow Trump made on the campaign trail to limit Muslim immigration to the US.

In his message to employees, 44-year-old Pichai, who grew up in India, suggested that at least 187 employees hailed from countries included in the ban.

"Our first order of business is to help Googlers who are affected," he said. "If youre abroad and need help please reach out to our global security team."

"We wouldn't wish this fear and uncertainty on anyone and especially not our fellow Googlers," Pichai wrote. "In times of uncertainty, our values remain the best guide."

MICROSOFT, FACEBOOK ALSO EXPRESS CAUTION

Immigrants make up much of the workforce in Silicon Valley, including many executive roles, and the tech industry has long advocated for more open immigration laws in the US, saying they need more skilled foreigners to fill technical jobs.

Microsoft has also warned its shareholders that curbs on immigration could have a material impact on its business.

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has also criticised Trumps decision to severely limit immigrants and refugees from certain Muslim-majority countries, saying America is a nation of immigrants and should be proud of it.

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"Like many of you, I'm concerned about the impact of the recent executive orders signed by President Trump," Zuckerberg wrote on his Facebook page.

Also read: Mark Zuckerberg challenges Trump as ban on Muslims goes live in US

Watch video: Google CEO Sundar Pichai criticises Trump's immigration orders

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Estonia marked its independence day Tuesday with a military parade featuring NATO hardware and troops on its eastern border with Russia amid heightened east-west tensions over Ukraine.

Around 100 British, Dutch, Spanish, Latvian and Lithuanian troops marched in the snow alongside some 1,300 Estonian soldiers to mark the independence of the formerly Soviet-ruled republic, now a member of the European Union and NATO.

"History has taught us that if we do not defend ourselves, nobody else will," General Riho Teras, Estonia's chief of staff, said at the parade.

"The events in Ukraine that have kept the entire world awake, demonstrate very clearly that we ourselves must maintain security," he added.

Two US Stryker armoured personnel carriers and a number of Dutch CV90 tanks were also on parade, equipment NATO has brought into the Baltics for a wave of exercises on the heels of Russia's 2014 annexation of Ukraine's Crimean peninsula and subsequent meddling in that country's east.

The annual parade has taken on particular importance this year in the context of jitters in the Baltic countries.

Holding the parade in Narva on the Russian border, where a majority of residents are ethnic Russian, was seen by commentators as sending a strong signal to Moscow about NATO's committment to collective defence.

General Adrian Bradshaw, NATO's Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Europe, said last week that Russia could try to seize territory from the alliance's states off the back of fighting in Ukraine.

British Defence Secretary Michael Fallon reportedly also told journalists last week that there was a "real and present danger" to Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia.

However, few ethnic-Russian Narva locals who came to the parade seemed to echo fears of a Russian intervention.

"In my opinion national security is blown up by the press, it's nothing serious, everything is okay, no one is going to attack anyone," said 55-year-old Yuri Melnikov.

Elvira Neimann, 77, said she's been living in Narva since the end of the Second World War in 1945: "I feel part of Estonia, not Russia."

"We're all tolerant people, Russia is our friendly neighbour," she told AFP.

Lithuania said Tuesday it would return to limited conscription later this year as concern mounts over Russian military exercises near NATO Baltic states.
Chad Montgomery knew it wasn't a normal Sunday when he showed up at 6 a.m. for his patrol with the Baton Rouge Police Department on July 17.

Officers had been working required overtime, day after day of long hours because of almost two weeks of protesting in the city. This would be Montgomery's last shift before some well-deserved time off.

And then came the call. A possible armed suspect at a store on Airline Highway.

Just as Montgomery and his partner pulled into the parking lot next door to the B-Quik convenience store, their vehicle was hit head-on by rifle fire. The bullet went through the front windshield, his rearview mirror, his headrest and finally the sheet of Plexiglas separating the back seat from the officers. It grazed the right side of Montgomery's head.

Montgomery's adrenaline and training kicked in. Surrounded by smoke and broken glass, he reversed the vehicle to try to take cover from the armed man just 40 feet away. Then they were hit again. The bullet went straight through both back passenger-side windows.

We have a lot of calls for subjects with guns," Montgomery said in an interview with The Advocate. "You get to it but youre not thinking the worst. But obviously, it was the worst-case scenario.

Montgomery, 41, is the third law enforcement officer who was injured in the targeted shooting by the lone gunman off Airline Highway, where three others were killed. He hasn't previously told his story to the media.

Montgomery and his partner were the first car to arrive at the scene after the call went out from the officers who already were at the convenience store. When they showed up, Montgomery quickly realized his fellow officer Cpl. Montrell Jackson had been killed and that this was a deliberate attack on law enforcement, he said.

It made sense real quick what was going on, real fast," Montgomery said, though he'd never encountered an active shooter in his 23-year career in Baton Rouge public safety, which included 13 years at the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff's Office before he moved to the Police Department. But that didn't change his response or that of his fellow law enforcement officers.

Montgomery and his partner both left the vehicle to pursue the suspect. They also went to the car wash next door to protect civilians, securing them in back offices. They did the same in the B-Quik, putting people into industrial-size freezers.

"At least they had some steel around them," Montgomery said. "During that time, we didn't know how many people were shooting, and of course, public safety is our No. 1 factor. Thats No. 1  theres no ifs, ands or buts.

At some point, someone told him his head was bleeding and he should go to the hospital, but he refused. He remembers telling headquarters that he was hit but that he was OK.

You just dont bail out on your brothers out there. Youve got so many civilians out there, youve got stores, and this guys constantly shooting," Montgomery said. "You just dont bail out like that.

Montgomery was at the scene for about 15 minutes before a sniper team shot and killed Gavin Long, the Missouri man who officials said came to Baton Rouge to target law enforcement, seemingly drawn by the media attention after an officer shot and killed 37-year-old Alton Sterling 12 days earlier.

But "it felt like two hours," Montgomery recalled.

Three law enforcement officers were killed: Jackson, 32, and Officer Matthew Gerald, 41, of the Police Department; and sheriff's Deputy Brad Garafola, 45. Montgomery was one of three officers who were injured. Sheriff's Deputy Nick Tullier, 41, who was hit three times and critically injured, is undergoing intensive rehabilitation in Houston. Sheriff's Deputy Bruce Simmons was shot in the arm and also is going through rehab to return to work.

As soon as the incident ended, Montgomery got that time off he had been expecting, although he no longer wanted it. He was placed on the required administrative leave after a traumatic event for about 10 days, he said, but he was restless to just return to the job.

His physical injury was minor; CT scans showed he would be OK, and he was released from the hospital with a bandage the same day of the shooting. However, six months later, he said, he still finds fragments of the bullet that grazed his head making their way to his skin's surface.

But it never crossed his mind to not get back to being a uniform patrol officer, not to get back to risking his life every day, he said. Much of his mandatory time off he chose to spend in the police station, with the people he said have become as close as family.

People dont realize how much we love our job," Montgomery said. "You just touch one persons life, you just do one good thing, help somebody in a wreck, help find someones missing loved one ... it doesn't sound like much, but it is.

So Montgomery returned to working uniform patrol for the 3rd District, driving by that same B-Quik almost every day, if not multiple times a day, he said. Although that might have been too much for many people, and at times even him, the outpouring of support within Baton Rouge, and from across the country, was a constant source of comfort. He also found the good in a terrible situation: "The Baton Rouge Six."

Kristin Allen, president and founder of the Mississippi Gulf Coast Blue Team nonprofit, which offers first responder support, said her organization coined the label once she was connected with Montgomery, who was injured in the shooting but had chosen to not be identified to the public. Montgomery also asked The Advocate that his photo not be published with this story to retain some privacy.

"We started it because for the longest time, Chad (Montgomery) was in the background of things," Allen said. "He (also) was running in when everyone else was running out. ... They've been through something that none of us have."

Her organization reached out to the families of the fallen and wounded officers from the shooting and brought them together for multiple events, fundraisers, benefits and concerts.

Its bittersweet," Montgomery said. "Its horrible what it takes to sometimes get people close together. Ever since then ... we all talk, at least once a week."

"They understand," he said of the five other families so closely affected by the shooting. "Its the people who have never dealt with anything like this before are the ones who have trouble understanding.

Five of the six families went to Biloxi, Mississippi  the Tullier family was supporting Nick Tullier as he transferred to Houston for medical care  where Allen's nonprofit is based, for a fundraiser event and silent auction on Nov. 19. Montgomery remembered it as one of his favorite times together.

That event raised $10,000 for each of the families, Allen said. She said it's important to support and uphold law enforcement and their families, something she learned firsthand as a wife and sister to law enforcement officers.

Regardless of state lines ... we're a pretty close community," Allen said. "We have formed a bond and a relationship and friendship with all of them (in Baton Rouge)."

Allen stays in touch with all the families and said she looks forward to when they come back for the nonprofit's now annual Fallen Officer Memorial in May.

"Were all one big family," Bruce Simmons recently said of the six officers and their families, many of whom he knew before but has since come to know better.

The next big event for the Baton Rouge Six will be welcoming their newest member, the baby of Gerald and his wife Dechia Gerald, who's due this spring, Montgomery said.

Theres going to be so much blue in that hospital," Montgomery said, smiling. "A lot of uncles and aunts, thats for sure."

Can't see the video below? Click here.
An open letter written to US President Donald Trump by Bana Alabed, who tweeted about life in Aleppo, has gone viral. The seven-year-old asked if he can do something for the children of Syria.

By India Today Web Desk: This seven-year-old Syrian developed a worldwide following after tweeting about the life of horror in Aleppo and now has written an open letter to US President Donald Trump.

Writing to the new president, Bana Alabed asked if he can do something for the children of Syria. "If you can, I will be your new friend", the letter read.

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She asked him not to forget the other children caught up in the Syrian civil war.

"You must do something for the children of Syria because they are like your children and deserve peace like you".

My letter to @realdonaldtrump: I beg you, can you do something for the children of Syria? If you can, I will be your best friend. Thank you pic.twitter.com/rWmgDuBf6P Bana Alabed (@AlabedBana) January 25, 2017

Bana along with her family escaped Aleppo during the mass evacuation and is currently living in Turkey. She tweets about her peaceful life in her 'new home'. Fatemah, Bana's mother, teaches her children English and helps run the social media account.

Also read: Donald Trump's refugee order dashes hopes of Iraqis who helped the US

Bana shared the handwritten letter on Twitter which has gone viral with nearly 4,000 retweets and 9,000 likes.

"I couldn't play in Aleppo, it was the city of death. Right now in Turkey, I can go out and enjoy. I can go to school although I didn't yet. That is why peace is important for everyone including you. However, millions of Syrian children are not like me right now and suffering in different parts of Syria. They are suffering because of adult people", she wrote to the newly inaugurated president.

However, Trump, on Friday, temporarily suspended the entire US refugee program which applies indefinitely to the resettlement of refugees from war-torn Syria. Addressing this, Bana tweeted to Donald Trump saying "Dear Trump, banning refugees is very bad. Ok, if it's good, I have an idea for you. Make other countries peaceful".

Also read: Indian-American lawmakers slam Donald Trump's 'cruel' immigration policy

To @realdonaldtrump: Dear Trump, banning refugees is very bad. Ok, if it's good, I have an idea for you. Make other countries peaceful. Bana Alabed (@AlabedBana) January 25, 2017

On January 26, she tweeted again asking for a reply to her request.

I am sleeping now Mr @realdonaldtrump I give you until morning to tell me if you will help Syrian children or not. Bye Bana Alabed (@AlabedBana) January 26, 2017

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The order also blocks all people from Iraq, Iran, Sudan, Somalia, Libya, and Yemen from entering the US for 90 days.

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Gov. John Bel Edwards speaks before the Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget before his plan was presented to address the $304 million budget deficit for the current year, Friday, Jan. 27, 2017 at the State Capitol. He's flanked by Division of Administration Commissioner Jay Dardenne, right.
It's good to be judge, especially when you get caught doing something that runs afoul of the law.

One Orleans Parish judge has gotten a nearly free pass from the Supreme Court over lavish insurance policies paid for not by the individual jurists but by a judicial expense fund fueled by court costs and other fees. The Orleans court, in a long-standing practice, had a slew of policies that picked up deductibles and other costs that ordinary people have to pay for their health care; WWL-TV and the Legislative Auditor's Office, among others, blew the whistle on the practice.

Penalties, though? Nothing doing, according to the Supreme Court, which oversees judicial conduct. A plurality of the state's high court rejected a recommendation by the state Judiciary Commission to censure Criminal District Court Judge Darryl Derbigny and order him to repay $57,000 that he received in allegedly improper insurance benefits.

Instead, the court ordered only that Derbigny repay $10,000 that he received in reimbursements for out-of-pocket medical expenses from a program called "Exec-U-Care."

The ruling by Chief Justice Bernette Johnson was largely agreed to by Justices John Weimer, Scott Crichton and Marcus Clark, although with much nattering over the particulars of what insurance policies were paid and what state law authorized back when. Justices Greg Guidry and Jeff Hughes dissented.

Other judges acceptance of the benefits over the years may be questioned, but this ruling may be a template for those future cases.

The result is first-class care indeed, for judges. For the rest of us, we'd be in trouble, or writing a big check to cover public funds spent when not authorized under state law.
Green Paradise --- Celebrating all things green at Baton Rouge Green's Green Paradise Gala are board members, front from left, Lillian Grossley, Kathryn Flournoy, Executive Director Diane Losavio, President Rawlston Phillips III, Sage R. Foley, Greg Inman, Donna Rea and Andy Crawford; and, back, Robert Seemann, Bayardo Hannon Jiron and Bill Reich.
Gregg Phillips is seen in Austin, Texas. President Donald Trump on Friday, Jan. 27, 2017, continued to press his widely debunked claims of massive voter fraud by encouraging the work of a Texas man who has claimed without providing any evidence that millions of people illegally voted in the 2016 election. Look forward to seeing the final results of VoteStand. Gregg Phillips and crew say at least 3,000,000 votes were illegal. We must do better! Trump tweeted. (Erich Schlegel/The Dallas Morning News via AP)
NEW ORLEANS (AP)  Bourbon Street's open-door policy, enticing anyone over 21 to walk in at all hours with drink specials, blaring music and neon lights has long been a New Orleans staple. Come in, order a drink and carry it back out to the street, if you like.

But city and state officials want to put an end to this easy access, and they are proposing the bars close their doors at 3 a.m.  but remain open for business  in an effort to curb violence that has stained New Orleans' image.

"I don't see what the point is in it," said Earl Bernhardt, owner of Tropical Isle and other clubs on and near Bourbon. He worries the policy might affect his bottom line. "We do a lot of business after 3 o'clock."

Officials hope a simple closed door will diminish the intensity of on-the-street, alcohol-fueled hoopla that has, at times ended abruptly in gunfire. They say it's not a curfew for a city known for all-night partying.

"Right now, the doors are open, so it's an open pedestrian party at 3 o'clock in the morning," Mayor Mitch Landrieu told reporters this week. "We're going to try to encourage them, through changing their environment, that it's going to be a little bit more comfortable for them to go inside the bars, which they'll be able to do until whatever hours they want to."

The closed-door initiative, which needs City Council approval, is one part of an anti-crime program Landrieu, city officials and Gov. John Bel Edwards unveiled this week. The city is dealing with a depleted police force and a murder rate that spiked last year to 175 killings. It had reached a 43-year low of 150 in 2014.

The plan calls for more early morning street sweeping in the French Quarter, as well as the use of high-tech gadgetry such as license plate readers and high-definition cameras to keep an eye on the crowds.

Deputy Mayor Jeff Hebert said he was unaware of any other city with a similar closed-door policy and that most other cities have a time when bars must completely shut down.

"What we wanted to do was come to a middle ground," Hebert said.

Security expert Cynthia Deloach of Atlanta-based THG Consultants said it could help bar managers keep a closer watch on traffic, preventing someone excessively drunk or under-aged from entering. Conversely, it could keep trouble from spilling into the street.

Peter Scharf, a criminologist at the LSU School of Public Health, said the policy might give police and cameras a clearer view of the streets, while encouraging bar patrons to stay inside might help with crowd control.

But, Scharf said, it's a Band-Aid solution in a city where violent crime is "a gushing artery." And Bourbon Street isn't a hotspot for violent crime compared with other parts of the city, he noted.

Indeed, few of last year's homicides took place on Bourbon or in the surrounding French Quarter. Officials emphasized that the anti-crime plans are to apply city-wide. Another step lets officers who live in the city take home patrol cars so they can park them in neighborhoods.

Still, violence on Bourbon brings unwanted international attention to the tourism-dependent city. In 2014, a gunfight broke out between two men at 2:45 a.m. on a Sunday morning, leaving a visitor dead and nine other people wounded, including tourists from neighboring states and Australia. It was a similar story last November when a dispute broke out between two out-of-towners. The resulting gunfire around 1:30 a.m. left an uninvolved Baton Rouge man dead and nine others injured.

Landrieu's proposal was met with skepticism from some, but not all, on Bourbon Street one recent evening. After all, fights in bars are almost as commonplace as the booze.

"What do they expect to accomplish?" asked Dawn Kesslering, a longtime bartender at Johnny White's. "Are they trying to keep the people in the bars from emptying into the streets? What does closing the doors do?"

Gafur Tursanov, of Miami, said it might work if all the bars cooperate, but added: "I don't' think it will really do a lot."
A rash of public bickering this week between Orleans Parish District Attorney Leon Cannizzaro and city leaders moved inside a criminal courtroom Friday, casting a shadow over the case of two men who could face decades behind bars.

New Orleans City Councilman Jason Williams remained at the center, this time in his role as a criminal defense attorney, as he and a Cannizzaro lieutenant traded bitter barbs during a high-profile perjury trial.

Williams  who has grown increasingly vocal in his criticism of Cannizzaro's aggressive tactics, and who recently helped spearhead a $600,000 cut to the DA's budget  was representing one of two men charged with perjury over their conflicting testimony in a murder case.

His client, Hakim Shabazz, and Kevin "Lucky" Johnson were teenagers when they identified fellow teen Jerome Morgan as the shooter in the 1993 killing of 16-year-old Clarence Landry during a birthday party in a Gentilly motel ballroom.

Orleans DA Leon Cannizzaro slams budget cut to his office, mocks Mayor Mitch Landrieu's new crime-fighting plan Orleans Parish District Attorney Leon Cannizzaro excoriated city leaders Tuesday for slashin

Their testimony at a 1994 trial before then-Judge Cannizzaro landed Morgan a life prison sentence for murder. But their return to the witness stand in 2013, in which they testified that police had coerced their identifications of Morgan, helped set him free.

After Criminal District Judge Darryl Derbigny granted Morgan a new trial, Cannizzaro's office filed perjury charges against Shabazz and Johnson that carry sentences of five to 40 years in prison. The men were charged under a statute that doesn't require proof of when they lied  then or now  just that their stories were inconsistent.

The recantations from Shabazz and Johnson, a close friend of Landry, werent the only evidence that Derbigny cited in overturning Morgans conviction. He also pointed to a failure by authorities to disclose a police report that seemed to undermine the police claim that Morgan fatally shot Landry, ran away but then returned to the ballroom before officers locked it down.

The jury heard that police showed up more than a half-hour after the shooting. The withheld report, however, suggested the cops got there in six minutes.

At a bench trial that ran little more than two hours Friday before Criminal District Judge Benedict Willard, just one witness was called: Assistant District Attorney Craig Famularo.

As a case screener in 1993, Famularo had rejected the murder charge against Morgan. At that point, Shabazz, who himself was shot, had identified Morgan, but Johnson hadn't.

After Shabazz spent 10 days in the hospital recovering from his wounds, he got a call from a detective who asked him if he knew who had shot him. Shabazz said he didnt and that he never saw a face.

The detective allegedly said, Jerome shot you, then asked Shabazz to come to the station to give a statement.

Famularo said Friday there was "something wrong with the witness's consistency."

His brief testimony was bracketed by strident rhetoric over the prosecution of the two men and what it said about Cannizzaro's office. Most of the sparring pitted Williams against Assistant District Attorney Francesca Bridges.

Williams described Cannizzaro's office as "corrupt" and characterized the prosecution of Shabazz and Johnson as a vengeful response to the reversal of Morgan's conviction.

He argued that prosecutors never bothered to investigate the allegation that former NOPD Detective Wayne Tamborella wheedled false identifications of Morgan from the teens.

"I can't ask (Shabazz) to take the stand today at his own trial. Why? Because they'll prosecute him again. They don't care about the truth. They care about winning and losing. Not justice. Not fairness," Williams said.

Cannizzaro's office would remain corrupt "as long as they're allowed to jump over the rights of black and poor people," Williams said.

"The district attorney says he takes the cases as he sees them. He likes to say that he protects victims and witnesses. Mr. Shabazz was a victim that day. He was shot that day. And for a grown man, a sworn officer ... to tell him who did it and coerce his testimony, and for there not to be a single question of this detective, is not just problematic ... it borders on malfeasance."

On Tuesday, Cannizzaro won a standing ovation after excoriating the Landrieu administration and the City Council in a speech before the Metropolitan Crime Commission. The DA chided them for reducing his budget even as the mayor promoted a $40 million public safety plan Cannizzaro described as reactionary.

Since then, Williams and Cannizzaro  or at least his spokesman, Christopher Bowman  have traded rebukes.

The council's budget cut was aimed at reeling in what Williams and Councilwoman Susan Guidry have described as draconian policies from Cannizzaro, who beat out Williams in a three-man race to win the DA's seat in 2008.

Williams and Guidry have criticized the DA over his nearly 90 percent rate of accepting felony cases that police present to him, and his penchant for transferring the bulk of juvenile armed robbery suspects to the harsher environs of adult court.

Williams and Robert Hjortsberg, Johnson's attorney, suggested Friday that Shabazz and Johnson were victims of an overzealous DA's Office. Convicting them, Williams told Willard, would "chill truth and justice in this city" by dissuading witnesses from coming clean.

But Bridges, the prosecutor, dismissed the attacks as misplaced political oratory.

"I'm not really sure this is just about Mr. Johnson and Mr. Shabazz. It's about some other things," Bridges said.

"Clearly Mr. Williams should not ever consider being a district attorney in the parish of Orleans," she said, "because what you do (at the DA's Office) is you prosecute cases. That's what you do when you're a district attorney, because ... when people break the law, you're supposed to hold them accountable."

Bridges insisted there was no evidence, other than the word of Shabazz and Johnson, that the detective  or the victim's now-deceased mother, as the defense attorneys alleged  coerced their identifications and testimony against Morgan.

"This office has nothing to be ashamed about. Nothing at all, because the more things change, the more things stay the same: Nobody commits crimes. Everybody is innocent. Nobody says anything. It's amazing you have so many people in jail. Nobody does anything!" Bridges said.

She described the prosecution of the two men as a clear message to potential witnesses that they should tell the truth.

"This is a real crime, and this is more dangerous, these people are more dangerous than any other person, because of what happened to somebody," she said.

"Jerome Morgan (had) either been sitting 20 years for a crime he never committed, or worse: He's gotten out after 20 years and he did commit the crime. And that is why this is important, because you don't know which one it is, and both are atrocious."

Afterward, Hjortsberg called Bridges' statement  that releasing a guilty person is "worse" than jailing an innocent one  "telling about how this office operates."

After the trial, Williams repeated his characterization that Cannizzaro this week was lashing out in a "tantrum."

He also denied politicking during the trial.

"I thought I was trying a case," he said.

Morgan, who watched the trial from the courtroom gallery, declined to comment afterward.

Cannizzaro's office grudgingly dropped its bid to retry him in the 1993 murder last year after the Louisiana Supreme Court barred prosecutors from introducing the earlier testimony of Shabazz and Johnson unless they testified in the case. Both men declined, invoking their right against self-incrimination.

Cannizzaro's office said that ruling crippled their case against Morgan.

Willard said he would render his verdict in the perjury case on Monday.
A peak body for suicide prevention has warned more needs to be done to help Mr Fluffy households as a new report shows the devastating mental health impact of the asbestos crisis on some homeowners.

According to a yet-to-be-released report produced as part of the ACT Asbestos Health Study, one quarter of Mr Fluffy-affected homeowners responding to a survey reported high levels of psychological distress.

Mr Fluffy loose-fill asbestos has heavily affected the mental health of homeowners, says Lifeline. Credit:Rob Homer

Just over a quarter of 1022 Mr Fluffy households participated in the survey, conducted by researchers at the ANU, in order to help determine the likely exposure levels and health related concerns of current and recent residents.

One third of respondents sought professional help with physical or mental health issues perceived to be relating to living in a Mr Fluffy home, and 10 per cent of residents reported health effects which they perceived to be related to living in a Mr Fluffy home, most being psychological.
An additive commonly used in lollies, biscuits, chewing gum and sauces has been found to initiate the early stages of cancers in animals, according to a recent study.

Titanium dioxide or E171 is used by the food industry to whiten and brighten food and other consumer products, such as sunscreen and cosmetics.

Exposure to nanoparticles of titanium dioxide and other additives has previously been shown to interfere with the immune system and cause cell damage, however such impacts remain under debate.

But a study by the French National Institute for Agricultural Research, recently published in the journal Nature, has shown for the first time that titanium dioxide nanoparticles are absorbed by the intestine and passed into the bloodstream of animals after oral exposure.
The order is expected to affect two programs US lawmakers created a few years after the 2003 invasion of Iraq to help the tens of thousands of Iraqis who risked their lives helping Americans.

US President Donald Trump signs an executive order he said would impose tighter vetting to prevent foreign terrorists from entering the United States at the Pentagon in Washington on January 27, 2017. Photo: Reuters

By Reuters: Iraqis who say their lives are in danger because they worked with the US government in Iraq fear their chances of finding refuge in the United States may vanish under a new order signed on Friday by President Donald Trump.

The order temporarily suspends the United States' main refugee program and halts visas being issued to citizens of several predominantly Muslim countries, including Iraq. It is expected to affect two programs US lawmakers created a few years after the 2003 invasion of Iraq to help the tens of thousands of Iraqis who risked their lives helping Americans.

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Trump says the order is necessary to prevent Islamist militants from coming to the United States posing as refugees, but refugee advocacy groups say the lengthy screening of applicants by multiple US agencies makes this fear unfounded.

Iraqis coming to the United States under the Special Immigrant Visa program for Iraqis, which stopped accepting new applications in 2014, or the ongoing Direct Access Program for US-Affiliated Iraqis are losing hope of ever getting out.

HARDER TO RECRUIT LOCAL SUPPORT IN WAR ZONES

"Mr. Trump, the new president, killed our dreams," said one Baghdad man whose wife worked for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) as a bookkeeper.

"I don't have any hope to go to the United States," he said in a telephone interview, speaking on condition of anonymity for fear of retribution by Iraq's Sunni and Shia militant groups and also of unfavorable treatment by the Trump administration.

More than 7,000 Iraqis, many of them interpreters for the US military, have resettled in the United States under the Special Immigrant Visa program since 2008, while another 500 or so are still being processed, according to State Department figures. Another 58,000 Iraqis were awaiting interviews under the Direct Access program, according to the International Refugee Assistance Project. Tens of thousands have already arrived under the second program, but no recent total was available.

"A lot of translators were trying to get the hell out of there because they had a mark on their head for working with US forces," Allen Vaught, a former US Army captain who went to Fallujah in western Iraq in 2003, said in a telephone interview. "They're viewed as collaborators."

He fears the order would endanger American troops by making it harder to recruit local support in war zones, a belief echoed by several advocacy groups working on behalf of America's Iraqi employees.

While in Iraq, Vaught employed five local interpreters who initially earned $5 a week traveling with troops, sometimes without weapons or armor. He helped two of the interpreters come to the United States as refugees with their families, putting them up initially in his home in Dallas, Texas. Another two were executed by militia groups, he said.

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The fifth was still mired in the refugee screening process, which can last months or years even after the initial interview. Vaught had expected to also welcome him into his home this year before he had seen a draft of Trump's order.

"This executive order is based on ignorance and fear," he said. "And you do not lead a country with ignorance and fear."

IRAQIS STRANDED

In Baghdad, the Iraqi man waiting for a visa recalled U.S, soldiers had laughed at his concerns, telling him the United States is too big a democracy to be changed on "the decision of one person like Trump," he said. But he now wonders if the soldiers were right.

In 2013, a USAID official encouraged his family to apply as refugees under the Direct Access program. He checked in every week or so, but is still waiting word on an appointment at the US consulate for the necessary interview.

The same year he filed his application, he was shot in the head while driving to work, hospitalizing him for a month and leaving him deaf in one ear. He connected that to the threats that had often flashed as text messages on his cellphone, sent by Islamist militants angered by his wife's work for USAID.

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Others in Iraq remained hopeful they would eventually get out.

An Iraqi man who worked for a US defense contractor and later alongside US troops as a mid-ranking Iraqi Army officer, recalled his excitement at getting the phone call a few weeks ago telling him that his family had an interview appointment at the US consulate after two years and four applications.

He was hopeful it would still take place in mid-February, believing that American officials would be concerned about the threats to his family. He was unaware that the US Department of Homeland Security on Wednesday temporarily halted trips by staff to interview applicants.

"I believe this is politics, things you hear on the news," he told Reuters by phone from Baghdad on condition of anonymity. "I don't think they would prevent Iraqis coming to America."

--- ENDS ---
Our dog is called Jenny. We bought her from a farm near Wangaratta several years ago when she was five, as the farm owners were selling up. Our previous dog had been put down several months earlier, and we missed her.

Australia has one of the highest rates of pet ownership, so there is a relatively elevated proportion of the second, wise and eminently superior, type; about four in 10 households are canine-graced. Only people who share their lives with a dog know just how much love is given to and received from these loyal and quirky creatures. This creates a bloody beautiful bond not only between dogs and their human companions, but between those very humans.

There are two types of people. The first does not like dogs. These people are tragically unenlightened. They are knaves and fools. The second loves dogs. We in this second category know that life is better with a dog. We are blessed.

However, we were not seeking a new dog that weekend. We were just visiting the farm. But Jenny and I were clearly meant to be together; she attached herself to me from the first moment, and pretty much has not left my side ever since. She had been a working dog all her life, having spent her first two years in the Wangaratta abattoir. She was such a damn good working dog that when her back left leg was smashed by a cow, rather than being taken out behind the shed and shot she underwent surgery, spent a year in recovery and still has four pins in her leg.

My family and I love her mightily. And so when my wife Sophie, of whom I am also rather fond and who has been known to be a touch jealous of Jenny, informed me Jenny had run away, panicked by the traditional fireworks, I was beside myself. We were in France visiting Sophie's family and were unable to receive calls on our Australian numbers. So anyone who found Jenny would not be able to let us know. Jenny and our house were being looked after by one of our Parisian nieces, Alice, and her Melbourne-based boyfriend, Max. We knew they were freaking out, too. They are from the second category, and they know how loved Jenny is.

There are many legitimate concerns about social media, which I'll not rehearse here. But social media can also be a fine and fabulous thing. It certainly was on New Year's Eve for us. I put out a plaintive call on Facebook and Twitter. The response was immediate and overwhelming and heart-warming, and I want with this column to thank again all those people who offered help and support. I also want to thank the police and protective service officers  but I'll come to that in a moment.

It was within an hour of midnight on this celebratory evening, but some people responded by actually going to our district and scouring. Others offered to do the same. Our call for help was shared by many, many people on both platforms. Indeed, I was later informed that Jenny was trending on Twitter in Melbourne; thousands and thousands of people were helping in the search. We were deeply moved and grateful.

Meanwhile back in Melbourne, Alice and Max, who were supposed to be at a party, were desperately searching.
The Turnbull government is pinning hopes for its US refugee deal on a clause buried deep within Donald Trump's controversial anti-Muslim executive order.

The US president's latest executive order has closed the nation's borders to refugees, suspending entry for 120 days and targeting Syrians with an indefinite ban.

"We are very confident and satisfied that the arrangement will continue": Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull. Credit:Edwina Pickles

Declaring the measures were aimed at keeping "radical Islamic terrorists" out of the US, Mr Trump also suspended all immigration from seven predominantly Muslim nations and established a religious test that will give Christians in Muslim countries visa priority.

It had been feared the new policy would scuttle the refugee deal the government struck with the Obama administration, which is aimed at resettling hundred of refugees  most of them from the countries banned by Mr Trump  from Manus Island in Papua New Guinea and Nauru.
Malia Obama, the daughter of former US president Barack Obama, has been spotted attending a protest against the building of the controversial Dakota Access Pipeline, at the Sundance Film Festival in Utah.

The 18-year-old was photographed at a solidarity event held on the same day President Trump signed executive orders to forge ahead with the pipeline, which had previously been halted by former president Obama, this week.

Malia Obama seems to back her father's policy decision. Credit:AP

Actress Shailene Woodley, who has been long-involved with the cause in solidarity with the Standing Rock Sioux tribe on whose land the pipeline is proposed, told Democracy Now it was "amazing" to have the teenager present at the event.

"It was amazing to see Malia," Woodley said. "To witness a human being and a woman coming in to her own outside of her family and outside of the attachments that this country has on her, but someone who's willing to participate in democracy because she chooses to."
A cache of banned items has been found along the perimeter of a southeast Queensland jail.

Corrective Services sniffer dogs were patrolling the Palen Creek Correctional Centre on Wednesday when they detected the items including a mobile phone, sim cards, lighters and several packets of tobacco.

A QCS spokesman said the department had a "zero tolerance approach" to contraband.

Located 100 km south of Brisbane, the jail is a low-security facility housing 170 male prisoners.

A QCS spokesman said the department had a "zero tolerance approach" to contraband.
Former Billabong CEO Matthew Perrin's dramatic slide from the corporate high life has seen him spend his first night in jail after receiving an eight-year sentence for fraud and forgery.

Perrin, 44, was found guilty by a jury last month of three counts of fraud and six of forgery after a week-long trial in Brisbane District Court.

Former Billabong chief executive Matthew Perrin, arrives at court in December with his new partner, Belinda Otten (left) and his daughter. Credit:Dan Peled

His sentence, issued by Judge Julie Dick on Friday, will see him eligible for parole in 2020, however the former businessman is expected to launch an appeal.

The court was told Perrin forged his wife's signature to secure a loan from the Commonwealth Bank on their $15 million waterfront Surfers Paradise home, which was solely in her name.
The search is on for two men armed with a knife and crowbar after an Albion bottle shop was robbed on Friday evening.

The pair entered the business on Sandgate Road at Albion about 10.30pm and threatened the two attendants before fleeing with cash.

Police have released vision of an armed robbery at an Albion bottle shop on Friday evening. Credit:Queensland Police Service

No one was injured during the incident but police have released vision of the two suspects.

Investigations are continuing.
A number of prawn suppliers and importers are under investigation for not meeting biosecurity measures in the time leading up to a disease outbreak.

The Department of Agriculture and Water Services had been investigating the suppliers and importers since August 2016, five months before it became public that white spot disease had been detected in Queensland.

Investigations into prawn importers could prolong the import ban and may cause retail prices to skyrocket. Credit:Melanie Faith Dove

Since December five prawn farms had tested positive for the virus, which causes a high death rate in the crustacean, and the import of green prawns had been banned indefinitely.

Federal Agricultural Minister Barnaby Joyce said at the time of the ban the $358 million a year industry would likely go through a shortage and see prices surge.
In the wake of the Bourke Street tragedy, the state government's new night court begins this weekend, with magistrates hearing applications from 5pm to 9pm.

On Monday, Premier Daniel Andrews announced plans for a new after-hours system whereby magistrates, rather than volunteer bail justices, would determine whether to remand people arrested with serious offences.

Premier Daniel Andrews announcing the night court with Attorney-General Martin Pakula. Credit:Richard Willingham

The reform was a part of a broader shake-up promised by the government amid widespread outrage that an after-hours bail justice had allowed Dimitrious Gargasoulas to be released on bail one week before his alleged CBD rampage.

However, it has since emerged that the new night court, which begins this weekend, would initially only sit on Saturday and Sunday nights between 5pm to 9pm  and only at the Magistrates Court in Melbourne.
A man has been caught drink driving at more than five times the legal limit in Melbourne's west on Friday.

The 47-year-old driver was intercepted by police in Edgbaston Parade, Caroline Springs, shortly after 6.30pm.

The legal BAC limit for fully licensed drivers in Victoria is 0.05 - a male driver recorded a reading of 0.257. Credit:Paul Rovere

Police had received numerous reports from the public about a station wagon being driven erratically.

The man returned a blood alcohol reading of 0.257.
Drivers attempting to reach Phillip Island are experiencing major delays following two major crashes on Saturday morning.

In the first incident three men were injured in a crash at Back Beach Road in Cowes.

A man in his 70s has been airlifted to Royal Melbourne Hospital in a critical condition with head injuries. A man in his 50s was taken to The Alfred hospital and a third man was transported to Dandenong Hospital.

In the second incident, a crash on Phillip Island Road on the bridge from San Remo to the island at 11.15am has created a massive build-up of traffic heading to the island.
Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin intended to talk by telephone about fighting terrorism in the Middle East, a collaboration that would represent a significant turnabout from years of friction between the two countries, the New York Times reported.

By Indo-Asian News Service: US President Donald Trump plans to open a dialogue with Russia that could lead to lifting of American sanctions, even as Britains visiting Prime Minister Theresa May and key Republican senators urged him not to let up the pressure on the Kremlin until it reverses its armed intervention in Ukraine, the media reported.

Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin intended to talk by telephone today about fighting terrorism in the Middle East, a collaboration that would represent a significant turnabout from years of friction between the two countries, the New York Times reported.

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At the direction of the White House, US officials have been preparing memos outlining possible common ground, including the prospect of removing some or all of the sanctions imposed by former President Barack Obama.

HERE IS ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW: Trump has suggested lifting the punitive measures in exchange for nuclear arms cuts and Russian cooperation in fighting the Islamic State, according to the report. Asked about sanctions, the US President on Friday played down the possibility of quick action, but did not rule it out. "As for sanctions, very early to be talking about that," Trump said at a White House conference with British PM Theresa May. "But we look to have a great relationship with all countries, ideally." May warned Trump against easing sanctions unless Russia abides by a peace settlement for Ukraine negotiated in Minsk, the capital of Belarus. Senator John McCain of Arizona also warned Trump against lifting sanctions and vowed to push legislation reinstating them if he does, a measure that has strong bipartisan support, including from Republicans like Senators Rob Portman of Ohio and Ben Sasse of Nebraska. Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the majority leader, who has largely shunned confrontation with Trump, has also been a longstanding opponent of lifting sanctions, a position he forcefully reiterated on Friday. According to the New York Times, one topic that may come up on Saturday's call is the fate of Austin Tice, a freelance journalist who disappeared in Syria in 2012. Trump may ask Putin for help in pressuring Russia's ally, President Bashar al-Assad of Syria, to release Tice, according to an official briefed on the matter. Syria has never acknowledged holding him, but Trump has considered dropping support for the Syrian opposition.

Also read: In Donald Trump era, Indians will no longer get any privacy protection

Also read: Donald Trump's refugee order dashes hopes of Iraqis who helped the US

--- ENDS ---
An elderly man reported missing from his home has been flown to hospital with life-threatening injuries after being struck by a car south of Melbourne.

Police were called to Naples Street, Mornington, just before 10am on Saturday after Donald Mulder, 89, fell before being struck by a car in a driveway.

The man was airlifted to hospital in a critical condition. Credit:Dave Langley

Mr Mulder, who has dementia, had been missing from his Venice Street home since about 10pm Friday night.

Acting Sergeant Melissa Seach said the driver of the vehicle is currently assisting police with their inquiries.
Police are searching for a man who is believed to have set fire to a Northcote pathology service.

The unidentified man is understood to have smashed a glass door and entered the High Street premises of Dorevitch Pathology about 4.20am on Saturday.

The fire broke out in the early hours of Saturday morning. Credit:Paul Jeffers

Once inside, it is believed he set fire to the business before fleeing.

No one was injured in the blaze and police are continuing to investigate.
An alleged teenage crime spree in a stolen bus came to an end after a short police chase through Melbourne's western suburbs.

Four teenagers, a boy and three girls, were pulled from the bus and arrested on Friday night following the one-day crime spree, police said.

Four teens have been arrested after a crime spree on a stolen bus. Credit:Cathryn Tremain

The vehicle, a smaller-sized bus owned by a private company, had been reported stolen on Friday at 1am from a West Footscray depot.

The teens on the bus were then spotted in western suburbs before police finally caught up with them.
Police are searching for a man who dumped his motorcycle in front of an approaching V/Line train near Ballan on Saturday.

The train, which was a Melbourne to Ballarat service, struck the motorcycle about 1.20pm.

Police are searching for man who left a motorbike on train tracks at Ballan on Saturday. Credit:Pat Scala

Victoria Police spokeswoman Kendra Jackson said the man had been pushing his motorcycle across the tracks near Llandeilo Lane when he dumped it in front of the approaching train.

"Another man was waiting near the tracks on a motorcycle at the time of the incident and the two males are believed to have fled the scene together," she said.



"The exact circumstances surrounding the collision are yet to be determined and the investigation into the crash is ongoing."



V/Line spokeswoman Catalina Filip said no one was injured but the train was unable to continue until a relief driver arrived.
The Victorian government will pledge to cut the state's greenhouse gas emissions by up to a fifth by 2020, putting it at odds with Canberra as the state positions itself as the national leader on tackling climate change.

The target  a reduction of 15 to 20 per cent  will be achievable only because of the closure of the Hazelwood coal power station in March, announced by its French-majority owners last year. But it will also require other cuts through energy efficiency and renewable energy programs.

It deepens the divide on climate between the state Labor and the Turnbull Coalition government, which will meet a less exacting 2020 target and has been sharply critical of the cost of Victoria's ambitious renewable energy policy.

Victorian Energy, Environment and Climate Change Minister Lily D'Ambrosio said 2016 was the hottest year on record, and the state wanted to maximise job and investment opportunities through a forward-thinking approach to tackling the problem.
There have been more arrests at the Roe 8 building site in Beeliar as protesters try to stop wetlands being cleared.

Eileen Glynn, from protest group Rethink The Link, said one of those arrested was the group's coordinator Kim Dravnieks.

She was detained after locking herself to a tree.

"She managed to lock onto a tree and she has just been arrested and taken away," said Ms Glynn on Saturday morning.
The former live-in partner and co-accused of alleged child sex predator and "dark web" mastermind Peter Scully has been arrested in a blow to the Australian man's chances of escaping conviction and possible execution in the Philippines.

Liezyl Margallo, 23, led police to a house in 2015 where they discovered the body of a 12 year-old girl who Scullly allegedly held as a sex and torture slave for months before strangling her and burying her body in a shallow grave.

Peter Scully (right) arrives at the Cagayan De Oro court handcuffed to another inmate on his first day of his trial. Credit:Kate Geraghty

She is expected to testify in court against 52 year-old Scully in the most shocking cases of child abuse and trafficking that Philippine officials have seen.

Police allowed Margallo, a former prostitute, to go free at the time of Scully's arrest in a part-Australian Federal Police operation in 2015 because they had not gathered evidence against her.
By Press Trust of India: Kolkata, Jan 28 (PTI) Gold worth over Rs 12 crore smuggled into India from Bangladesh has been seized by DRI officials here.

A team of Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) conducted searches at a flat in Beliaghata area. The flat was found to be occupied by a couple.

On thorough search, the DRI officials recovered 354 pieces of gold biscuits of foreign origin weighing 41 kgs, a press release issued today by revenue intelligence agency said.

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"All the gold biscuits were bearing foreign markings inscribed on them such as Al Etihad, Dubai and Credit Suisse, Switzerland. Value of the seized gold was calculated to be Rs 12.08 crore," it said.

The husband admitted his involvement in the smuggling and said that he had received similar type of smuggled gold in the past also for monetary considerations, the release said, adding that the accused was arrested. PTI AKV KUN

--- ENDS ---
if the people of Biafra want Republic of Biafra, it will be a reality during my administration. ----Donald Trump Donald Trump I wi...
Monday 05 September, 2016 Reliable information reaching Biafra writers desk has it that the life of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indi...
By Press Trust of India: New Delhi, Jan 28 (PTI) The lure of quick money led a former two-time Mr Agra winner to join a gang of carjackers which was busted with the arrest of the model-cum-bodybuilder and four other members in southwest Delhi, police said today.

"Accused Sarvesh Kumar Sharma (31) has won Mr Agra title twice in bodybuilding and has also done modelling for many companies. He had a very promising and bright career ahead but wanted to make quick money hence was easily lured by Ratan Chopra, who dragged him in the world of crime," police said.

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Ratan (38) is the kingpin of the gang, who was a close associate of one Manoj Bakkarwala and was previously involved in around 20 cases of carjacking, robbery, vehicle theft. After the arrest of Bakkarwala he formed his own gang as he wanted to rule the world of crime and make quick money to live a luxurious lifestyle, they said.

The other three accused have been identified as Ajay Verma (24), Anshu Singh (23) and Ankush (21).

"On January 22, a tip-off was received that a gang of car thieves would come in a black-colour Opel Corsa car near Bharthal Chowk, Sector-28, Dwarka, to commit a carjacking. A trap was laid and the black colour vehicle was flagged down.

"The driver of the car was Ratan Chopra, who along with two other occupants, was nabbed. A robbed gold ring was also found in the possession of Chopra," a senior police official said.

During investigation of the case, police remand of the these three accused was obtained and during their remand, two other accused Sarvesh and Ankush were also arrested. A Hyundai i-20 Sportz car was recovered from the possession of Ankush, which had been robbed earlier, the official said.

The kingpin of the gang Chopra alias Masood is a school dropout and has only studied till class 10. He fell in bad company since he was a minor and committed petty theft.

Accused Sarvesh is a model-cum-bodybuilder and was currently a gym trainer in Agra. Ankush, Ajay and Anshu are also school dropouts, they said. PTI KND KUN

--- ENDS ---
Bill Maher was not pulling any punches Friday night. During his monologue on the latest edition of HBOs Real Time, the indisputable godfather of late-night political comedy tore into what he called President Trumps war on facts, as well as his series of freedom-stripping executive orderswhich he seems to be reveling in due to the ceremony and photo ops.

He keeps holding [the executive orders] up after he signs them, like, Look! Look mommy, I finished my coloring! Maybe we can put it on the refrigerator! The problem is, you know, executive orders are a real thing. When Obama did it he had the lawyers go over it, people knew what was happening in the departments. No one knows how these things are going to work! Nobody knows where the moneys coming from. Theyre just signed tweets, said Maher. [Trumps] first week wasoh my godit was like the last half-hour of Goodfellas, where Ray Liotta is coked out of his mind and doing ten things at once, he continued. Hes dropping off a trunk full of handguns, and hes making spaghetti sauce, and helicopters are chasing him. It cant really go on like this for four years, can it? Im gonna lose my mind.

The political satirist and late-night then focused on President Trumps first-week delusions, including that 3-5 million people voted illegally for Hillary Clinton (not true), and that his Inauguration Day crowd was the largest ever (not even close).

There is, in just one week, a lot to be very alarmed about. But I gotta put on the top of my list the fact that the President of the United States sees multitudes that do not exist, said Maher. He insisted that the crowd size at the inauguration was the biggest everand that aerial photography is just a theory. But we saw this! We saw these pictures. Half the mall covered in whitenessbut enough about his supporters. I mean, he cant stand it that when it comes to the size of the crowd, Obamas was bigger. This is about cock, right? This is about dick! This is about a guy who never brought a woman to orgasm, thats what this is about. He probably doesnt even think it really exists in a woman: Its rigged. The vagina is very rigged. And then were told, you know, that there are such things as alternative facts. Thats what this week will be known for: alternative facts, Maher added. And Sean Spicer, his press secretary, about the crowd size he just went, This is what the President believes. Youre on your own. I think the difference between Scientology and Donald Trump is that Scientology has better celebrities.

Later on, The Daily Beasts editor-in-chief John Avlon appeared on the program to discuss his new book, Washingtons Farewell, and the danger of foreign influence on the U.S. governmentwhich one of George Washingtons biggest fears, and is relevant to Russias supposed meddling in the 2016 U.S. presidential election.

We are so deep into somewhere between situational ethics and willful stupidity, said Avlon. But Washington did warn us about a lot of this stuff. This is received wisdom. When Washington wrote his farewell address, he was writing it as a warning to future generations about the forces he felt could destroy our Democratic Republic: hyperpartisanship and foreign wars and influence. These are ripped-from-the-headlines things. But hyperpartisanship, these political factions who hijack our democracy and make it so dysfunctional, Washington warned, that eventually people get so frustrated that they open the door to a demagogue with authoritarian ambitions, he added, this is one of the ways that democracy dies.
The first sign I saw on my march from Union Station to the March for Life was one that pointed out that abortion is more popular than Donald Trump.

The second sign was an interstate billboard-sized display at street level that declared abortion child sacrifice, and, for good measure, illustrated this child sacrifice with two creative illustrations of demons torturing babies. An all-male crew worked silently to assemble it, unfurled canvas block by block. It was very circa-1988 heavy metal album cover, those 10-foot-tall prints of horned beasts dangling infants by the legs over a pit of fire. Id find out why it was so far from the main site of official March for Life events later that day.

Pundits and opinion columnists agree: the 2012 and the 2016 elections were about totally different issues. The former was a referendum on Obamas first term; this was a change election. Four years ago, voters were focused on the war on women; this time it was about jobs. Or maybe this time voters were motivated by economic anxiety. Perhaps it was about the damn emails! But, by and large, political commentators agreed, this year, things were different.

Or maybe they werent. In the last week, two massive marches descended on Washington, each representing an impassioned, highly motivated voting bloc. A week ago, it was a mostly-female crowd of people united by their adherence to a progressive agenda that included abortion access. Today, men and women from all over the country (and world) gathered on the same soil to oppose abortion access. I attended both marches. Their respective success so close in succession tells a story of a much different sort of electorate than the punditry would have you believe.

Freshly in DC, I paused in front of the Abortion Is Child Sacrifice display. It was jarring. I had some questions. Thankfully, a man wearing a blue hoodie that read, succinctly, I AM PRO LIFE explained that the display was courtesy of the Center for Bio-Ethical Reform. The groups leader Greg Cunningham had art-directed it, since, you know, theres not a ton of popular demand for stock art of this nature. That was a joke. The hoodie man did not laugh. Instead, he helpfully offered to introduce me to somebody who could give me Mr. Cunninghams contact information, so we could chat more about the Centers work and mission.

I glanced back at the poster, at the part of the mural where a man in a turban offered a throned demon two infants. The demon was pretty excited about this. Yes! Yes, he wanted the infants!

No, I didnt need to meet Greg Cunningham.

Later, I learned that the extremely metal abortion art group was a bit of a March for Life pariah. Organizers liked to keep them at arms length. Something about how the imagery they used to further their point was too extreme for the image that organizers wanted to project. Disappointing. That mural was extremely cool. The photo of dismembered fetuses next to it I could have done without.

Past the initial fiery bath of damnation, the March was much more Hogwarts than hellfire. Pods of teens and young adults wore matching knit caps and sang camp songs or chanted as they made their way to the rally site, just past the National Mall, next to the Washington Monument. The girls wore identically straight long hair, the boys plodded along in that half-embarrassed hands-in-pockets shuffle anybody who ever had a teenage brother would recognize.The march was dominated by young people, high-school kids, college kids. Kids from Indiana, from Maine, from New Hampshire. Lithuania! They were having a great time. It looked like the kind of fun thats the most fun when it represents a chance to feel important on your own, away from your parents. It looked like the kind of fun a person can have if theyve never lived on their own and been faced with the prospect of unplanned parenthood, and the real impact it could have on the entire course of their lives. It looked like hopeful fun in the name of a cause many of its participants couldnt fully understand. They couldnt possibly know the micro implications of their advocacy.

The march wasnt entirely young kids. There were plenty of clergy, each in their own order-specific garb. A friend, a devout pro-life Catholic, kept pointing them out. Franciscans! Sisters of Life! It was like spotting license plates on a family road trip. There were also plenty of older adults, families with small children, and adult church groups. But they were overwhelmingly white.

While the variety of signs at the March For Life didnt compare to the Womens March, what they lacked in irreverence they made up for in sincerity. Last week, a friend spotted a sign that read Meryl Streep isnt overrated, you fucking piece of shit. I saw no fucks today. Hellfire was mild. Prefab adoption-encouraging signs in a pleasant teal abounded. There was female anatomy, sure, but nothing that would have to be pixelated on the evening news. There were no cartoonishly rendered vagina dentatae. There were cross-section drawings of a pregnant woman. Sometimes her fetus was being aborted. Other times, it was surrounded by a heart, to signify love. Usually, the diagrams were just the female torso.

It was clear that the organizers of the March for Life expected a big crowd, but they didnt expect the enormity of the crowd that showed up, nor did they expect the security headache that came with a last-minute appearance by the Vice President. Mike Pences speaking slot had only been announced yesterday, after Donald Trump went on a tirade against the media for not covering the March for Life adequately in years past. It seems that when Donald Trump lashes out at the media for not covering something, its a good indicator that that Donald Trump is just learning that a particular thing exists.

This was as good a year as any to learn that the March for Life is a thing. The weather, only slightly too cold and slightly too bright, meant would-be attendees had no excuse for skipping it. And they showed up in droves. The lines to make it through security crawled at a maddening pace. Eventually, it seemed like the screeners just stopped letting people in. Some attendees didnt get close enough to the stage to hear the speakers by the time the blockbusters had come and gone. Theyd cheer in response to cheering they heard further up, trusting that if they were cheering up there, something good must have happened.

Vice President Pence and Kellyanne Conway, senior advisor to President Trump, both spoke about how deeply important being pro-life was to each of them. Hours after his administration officials heartfelt declarations about all lifes preciousness, President Donald Trump signed executive orders temporarily suspending the admission of refugees to the U.S. from all countries with few exceptions. He further barred citizens of several Muslim countries, including Syria, from entering the U.S. on visas. In Syria, an estimated 312,000 to 470,000 people have died as a result of the countrys ongoing civil war since 2011. Trump has batted around the idea of using torture on Americas enemies again. This week, he laid the groundwork for unraveling the Affordable Care Act without a clear plan for replacing it. He considered slashing funds to a UN-affiliated agency that works to prevent child marriages and female genital mutilation. He cheerleader-ed a Russian strongman who has been suspected in the murder of journalists and other enemies. The branding of pro-life to mean anti-abortion always felt like a fast one to me. It especially felt like a fast one this year, on this day.

When I spend time around my friends who are pro-life, we sometimes discuss abortion, but the only way we dont fight is if we assume that neither of us is going to budge in our views. My friend, the one who knew the orders of clergy by their vestments, was reading a book about Kermit Gosnell, the Philadelphia abortion doctor who was more a butcher than a medical practitioner. Gosnells story is one pro-life adherents often cite in calling for an end to abortion. Pro-choice advocates counter that what Gosnell did was outside of the realm of what anybody thinks should be legal. I was preoccupied with the Presidents cruelty. We both acknowledged the legitimacy of the others horror and did not get angry. We were very polite, but we did not change our minds.

After the rally, the participants marched singing, chanting, hoisting signs, waving flags. They marched up to the Supreme Court. Women who regretted having abortions testified to the horrors of their abortion experiences. At the Womens March last week, women were eager to tell me about their abortions, legal and illegal, and werent ashamed. The women at the March for Life were telling the truth the March for Life participants wanted to hear. The women at the Womens March were telling the truth those marchers wanted to hear. The truths did not intersect, because they cant intersect.

Both sides of the abortion debate are compromises worst enemy. Bring up abortion reduction and a progressive risks offending voices on the pro-choice side that insist that abortion should be on demand and without apology or stigma. Bring up birth control on the pro-life side and you risk offending hard-core factions who believe that abortion is a product of an immoral society and that sex is sacred act designed for procreation, and that interfering at all with procreation was akin to interfering with God. Both sides are so reverent to their far edges that theres no middle, only capitulation to the extremes.

Every election is different. Each has its own mini catastrophes and forgettable narratives that become late-night monologue joke fodder before being discarded from memory like a flyer shoved to the bottom of a tote bag. For people who fall on either end of the choice issue, in every election, theres only one question to be answered: pro-life or pro-choice? Nothing else not jobs, the economy, foreign entanglements, pussy grabbingmatters. Abortion is a matter of life and death. Its the most durable single-issue vote. Until something seismic happens, every political fight will eventually be an abortion fight.
President Donald Trump took to Twitter on Friday to laud Gregg Phillips, the creator of an anti-vote fraud app who has repeatedly claimed that 3 million people voted illegally in the 2016 election, but has refused to make public any data or evidence to prove it.

Perhaps Trump shouldnt be so quick to believe Phillips, who has twice served in state governmentonce in Mississippi, once in Texasand twice been accused of rewarding his associates, including a government document denouncing him for facilitating an erosion of the public trust.

Phillips is currently unable to do business with the state of Texas, according to Kevin Lyons, a spokesman for the Texas Comptroller. He told The Daily Beast on Friday that Phillips had failed to file the required paperwork this year and his right to transact business was forfeited on Sept. 23, 2016. The Guardian also reported on Friday that he owes more than $100,000 in unpaid taxes. Phillips has never been charged with any crimes.

Hes one of our revolving door kind of hustlers, Andrew Wheat, the research director of Texans for Public Justice, told The Daily Beast in a phone interview.

Phillipss November tweet claiming widespread voter fraud has been used as an evidence-free talking point by right-wing sites like InfoWars and The Drudge Report to bolster the false contention that Trump would have won the popular vote if not for illegal voting.

Trump has repeated Phillipss estimate several times this week, and tweeted Gregg Phillips and crew say at least 3,000,000 votes were illegal, despite Phillipss repeated and strident refusal or inability to release any proof, including when asked by The Daily Beast.

Its not a new strategy for Phillips. Over the past three decades, Phillips has frequently decried widespread waste, fraud, and abuse in government programsthen alleged to have created a program or software that purported to fix it all. After working to award millions in government contracts to his businesses or associates involved in those programs, they were quietly shuttered years later.

Phillips worked in Mississippi in the mid-1990s, when he led the states Department of Health and Human Services. At the time, he teamed with a man named Larry Temple, his deputy administrator. The two remained associates for years to come.

It didnt take long for Phillips to land in trouble. In 1993, according to the Houston Chronicle, Phillips signed a $875,000 contract modification to a company named Synesis Corporation. It was for adding two mobile learning labs to an adult literacy program in the state called the LEAP program.

Then Phillips went on Synesis payroll. On April 26, 1995, Phillips resigned from his position and, immediately began working for Synesis, earning an $84,000 annual salary to market Synesis wares.

A subsequent report by the Mississippi Legislature concluded, Mr. Phillipss actions create the appearance of impropriety, facilitating an erosion of the public trust [that] could constitute a violation of state ethics laws.

Phillips insisted to The Guardian that he was fully cleared by the MS [Mississippi] ethics commission of any wrongdoing.

The LEAP program was eventually killed. In 1996, the inspector general of the federal Department of Health and Human Services found GEDs earned by the program cost the state about $117,000 per student (PDF).

According to The Guardian, in 1995 Phillips was being sought for a job as the head of human services in Alabama after his resignation in Mississippi. The Birmingham News implored then-Governor Fob James not to hire him, citing Phillipss shaky qualifications and a suspect track record.

When he didnt get the job, Phillips went into the private sector. Temple, his former deputy, went to work for the Texas Workforce Commission, where he is now the executive director of the taxpayer-funded agency.

Temples presence at the Commission became relevant for the next project upon which Phillips would embark: setting up a company called Enterject in 2000.

Enterject was created as a management consulting services company where Phillips worked alongside Paige Harkins, the daughter of real-estate developer Gary Harkins and a friend of Larry Temple.

As detailed in an investigative story from The Houston Chronicle, during Temples tenure at the Texas Workforce Commission, he helped his former colleague Phillips at Enterject earn $2.7 million in job-training grants from the commission. Enterject also got a separate $670,000 contract managing labor certificates for immigrants. These respective incidents occurred in 2001 and 2002.

These deals became such a concern that his secretary Sharon Reininger resorted to being a de-facto whistleblower about years of accrued handouts to his friends.

The Chronicle quotes from an internal TWC audit. In it, Reininger raised questions about whether Temple was providing personal friends with proprietary information to give them an advantage in the contract procurement process.

When The Daily Beast attempted to reach Temple on Friday, a representative took a message and said that he was traveling. The Daily Beast could also not reach Phillips for comment for this story.

The cloud over Phillipss work for the TWC did not prevent him from getting more government jobs in Texas.

This is a state that led the free world for a long time in killing felons, Wheat said in his interview with The Daily Beast. There seems to be no death sentence for bad contractors and they just keep coming back for more.

According to his LinkedIn page , Phillips was then hired in 2003 as executive deputy commissioner at the Texas Health and Human Services Commission after maintaining a close relationship with Temple at TWC. During his brief tenure in this positionPhillips was out of the job by August 2004he reportedly awarded a $1.2 million consulting contract to Accenture.

Accenture used a lobbyist named Strategic Partnerships Inc. of Austin to seek out the contract. Strategic Partnerships had recently hired Paige Harkins, previously at Enterject, for the role of advising companies how to get the very contracts that Phillips was awarding.

Strategic Partnerships founding partner Mary Scott Nabers claimed to the Chronicle that Harkins never directly lobbied Phillips and said she was unaware of what Phillips had done in Mississippi.

We really sought her out because we did not know what they had done in Mississippi, did not know anything about Gregg, did not know how to advise all of our clients, all of whom were interested in the consolidation, Nabers said at the time.

The Daily Beast has requested comment from Nabers through a representative of Strategic Partnerships, but the call was not returned at press time.

Nabers told the Chronicle that Harkins told her she and Phillips had cut all previous business ties with their previous endeavor, Enterject. All the while, on paper, Phillips was still involved with the company. He has listed himself as the chief executive of GHT Development Inc. on his own LinkedIn page, which owned the registration for Enterjects website, according to the Chronicle.

According to his LinkedIn page, Phillips became chairman of his own company, AutoGov, by September of 2004.

By August 2007, according to The Dallas Morning News, Phillips had pitched a plan to automate the states juvenile inmate classification system. Just over a week later, the Texas Youth Commission had approved a no-bid $275,000 contract to AutoGov, bypassing the states legislative funding rules.

A number of inappropriate placements at the time were creating unsafe conditions for child inmates in state custody, and a fast fix was needed, Phillips contended.

When a reporter for The Dallas Morning News inquired with the organization why Phillipsonly months into the automation gamehad been awarded a contract without so much as a background check, the agencys leader, Jay Kimbrough said, It doesnt matter to me if Gregg Phillips was on the grassy knoll in Dallas, Texas, if he has a solution that is good for the youth of TYC.

In the same article, Phillips says that he was never asked by TYC staff to submit paperwork. Jim Hurley, a spokesman for TYC, is quoted in the Morning News piece saying it is inconceivable the staff would not look into the company before signing the contract.

Shortly thereafter, in a July 2009 report from the Sunset Advisory Commision (PDF), an agency within the Texas legislature that makes recommendations for cutting or continuing state agency funding, Texas state representatives determined that AutoGovs system was not a sufficient replacement for the old one.

In addition, in September 2008, TYC piloted its new automated placement system, Autogov, but because of significant problems with the new system, TYC must operate both its old and new placement systems, the report read. Without a comprehensive placement policy and process in place, TYC cannot ensure youth are placed based on risk, need, and location of family resources.

Despite Autogovs failure at the TYC, it received another government contract in 2009. This time, Phillipss company was awarded at least $207,000 in more no-bid funds for software that was supposed to guarantee the integrity of the application process for food stamp and other welfare program participants.

Strangely, officials who award the contract cited Phillipss experience with the Texas Youth Commission as a reason for their decision.

Phillipss new national prominence is built in part on his voter fraud app, the origins of which date back to 2012 when Politico reported he was unveiling a new project called VoteStand. At the time, Phillips was involved with the Winning Our Future PAC, which supported Newt Gingrichs campaign and received funding from the family of noted Republican booster Sheldon Adelson.

People will have somewhere to turn if they see voter fraud or something that is not quite right in their eyes, Phillips said at the time. We think this will help us leave a positive legacy this election cycle, rather than just putting up a bunch of ads.

Rick Tyler, who also worked on the PAC and went on to do communications for Ted Cruzs 2016 campaign, told The Daily Beast he thought Phillips was engaged in voter list analytics at that point when asked if Phillips had started working on the app during their time at the PAC.

He said he thought the project was part of Phillipss business.

Now, as Phillipss new business has become a national talking point, Wheat wasnt really surprised to see him up to his old tricksincluding tweeting recent assertions that Israelis impersonated Russians involved in election hacking and that President Obama ordered the hacking of a number of state election databases.

Weve got a number of these kind of people here and I guess nationallythe Twitter stuff they pull out of their butt and whatnot, Wheat told The Daily Beast.

Spewing utter gibberish into the Twittersphere and then being surprised when people try to fact check him.

Phillips insisted in a conversation with The Daily Beast earlier this week that hes not a politician and not a celebrity and that hes just an ordinary citizen who wants to clean [elections] up and fix it. He said hed love for the government to check his database with a government list of dangerous actors, like the one used by the Department of Homeland Security.

If there can be legislation to do a check, we have the technology to do it, he said. We can do it in a nanosecond.

Phillips didnt provide access to his data or algorithm when repeatedly asked by The Daily Beast.
JFK would bristle at whats happening at JFK International Airport.

On the order of President Donald Trump, 12 people were detained without due process as soon as they landed in Americas most cosmopolitan city, New York, from points as far as Syria and as close as Boston.

The official language of Trumps order doesnt mention religion, but only predominantly Muslim countries are named, and he said he would prioritize Christian refugees. Countries compromised by terrorism excludes, for example, France (home to three spectacular terror attacks in two years) and Belgium (the per capita leader of fighters sent to Syria). The order permanently bars Syrian refugees, suspends entry to other refugees for 120 days, and suspends entry of citizens from several predominantly Muslim countries for 90 days. The countries are Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Yemen, and the country the U.S. destroyed: Iraq.

That didnt stop a brave Iraqi named Hameed Khalid Darweesh from working with the U.S. Army as a translator to try to undo the damage. Darweesh was reportedly marked for death twice for collaborating with Iraqs occupiers, so its no surprise he sought safety in the United States.

As soon as he landed in the U.S., though, he was locked up.

What I do for this country? They put the cuffs on, Darweesh said to reporters after his release, miming handcuffs behind his back. You know how many soldiers I touch by this hand?

That a man who risked his life for the United States in a faraway land should be discriminated based solely on his religion is a story as shameful as it is well-trodden.

Before he was JFK, he was U.S. Navy Lt. John Fitzgerald Kennedy, commander of a torpedo boat in the south Pacific during World War II. A Japanese destroyer cut his boat in two, leaving ten men to swim to an island. Kennedy put a strap from a badly burned mans life jacket in his teeth and swam the two of them three miles to safety.

Nearly 20 years later when he endeavoured to take the same oath as president he took as a sailor, JFKs conduct in combat wasnt proof enough of his patriotism for some.

He was a Roman Catholic and that gave pause to millions of voters, especially in the South, to installing a potential puppet of the pope in the White House.

Catholics, the thinking went, obeyed an unelected man, supposedly infallible, living in a theocratic city-state. They spoke a dead language at their religious services, reading the Bible in that same language. They even believed they were eating the body and drinking the blood of their savior every Sunday.

It was as foreign sounding as some precepts of Islam sound to some today.

And as hard as it is to imagine today that a Catholic couldnt become president, it wasnt in 1960. Barely 30 years earlier, Gov. Al Smith of New Yorks Catholic faith likely contributed to his defeat in the 1928 presidential race. Nevermind the Constitutions prohibition on a religious test for public office, the voters are the ultimate arbiters.

So Kennedy knew he had to face the issue, head-on.

For contrary to common newspaper usage, I am not the Catholic candidate for President, he told the Greater Houston Ministerial Association on September 12, 1960. I am the Democratic Party's candidate for President who happens also to be a Catholic. I do not speak for my church on public matters; and the church does not speak for me.

Darweesh and other refugees arent running for president, but they would like to live in America. Kennedy wanted them to live in an America that wouldnt discriminate on the basis of religion--he knew doing so would destroy the country:

For while this year it may be a Catholic against whom the finger of suspicion is pointed, in other years it has been -- and may someday be again -- a Jew, or a Quaker, or a Unitarian, or a Baptist. It was Virginia's harassment of Baptist preachers, for example, that led to Jefferson's statute of religious freedom. Today, I may be the victim, but tomorrow it may be you -- until the whole fabric of our harmonious society is ripped apart at a time of great national peril.

Kennedy continued:

Finally, I believe in an America where religious intolerance will someday end, where all men and all churches are treated as equals, where every man has the same right to attend or not to attend the church of his choice, where there is no Catholic vote, no anti-Catholic vote, no bloc voting of any kind, and where Catholics, Protestants, and Jews, at both the lay and the pastoral levels, will refrain from those attitudes of disdain and division which have so often marred their works in the past, and promote instead the American ideal of brotherhood.

JFK would be ashamed at what is being done at the airport in his name, by a man who sits in the same office and writes on the same desk he did.
SAN DIEGOAt the dawn of what could be the most dangerous presidency in U.S. history, Donald Trump and the nations Latino community are squaring off like a bull and a matador.

And given Trumps penchant for tall tales and broken promises, you dont need me to tell you which is the bull.

Latinos are also anxious about what Trump is going to do to them; many of them recognize thatalong with women and Muslimstheir community was a favorite foil for Trump during the campaign and they wonder whether that sick game will continue now that he is president.

It doesnt help that there is a thick layer of tension between the parties. Latinos are unsure about what to do with Trump; there are big arguments erupting, as we speak, about whether to give the new president a chance or just give him hell.

Of course, Trump could also just decide to ignore Latinos altogether. Despite having bragged during the campaign that Latinos loved him because he was going to create all these jobs, and many of those jobs were going to go to Latinos because theyre the hardest workers, the president missed his first chance to hire a Latino to fill a job opening. The former reality show star who fashions himself a great judge of talent missed the opportunity to put a Latino in his Cabinetsomething every president has accomplished since Reagan nominated Lauro Cavazos to be secretary of Education in 1988.

Yet, its an indication of just how peculiar the relationship is that Latinos are perplexed over how to respond to this blatant Cabinet snub. Perhaps its a good thing, since no self-respecting Latino should want to go to work for an unrepentant anti-Latino demagogue who announced his candidacy in 2015 with these words:

The U.S. has become a dumping ground for everybody elses problems. When Mexico sends its people, theyre not sending their best Theyre sending people that have lots of problems, and theyre bringing those problems with us. Theyre bringing drugs. Theyre bringing crime. Theyre rapists. And some, I assume, are good people.

Its hard to decide which was more offensivethat Trump so glibly painted Mexican immigrants with such a broad brush, as criminals and rapists, or that he got the part about a country not sending its best exactly wrong. Its always been true that the immigrants who come to the United States are the most optimistic, the most daring, the hardest workers. They are the best. And were lucky to have them.

With those objectionable comments, Trump found the issue that he would continue to use as a battering ram against Latinos: immigration.

This week, during a visit to the Department of Homeland Security, Trump signed a pair of executive orders on immigration that were intended to start reversing the Latinization of America.

Let me be clear. The nations 54 million Latinos are not monolithic. In fact, there are times when theyre barely on speaking terms. Theyre divided six ways from Sundayby which political party they support, how much money they make, how much education have, where they live, what their country of origin is, whether theyre naturalized or native-born, etc. And not all of them list immigration reform as a top priority; in fact, very few of them do. The more popular issues are the economy, jobs, education, and health care.

Still, since most of the people who immigrate to the United Statesboth legally and illegallyare from Mexico and the rest of Latin America, Latinos have a way of being dragged into any national discussion about controlling immigration. Too often, these days, Latinos are cast in the role in the American drama played by the Germans in the 1700s, the Irish and Chinese in the 1800s, and the Italians and Jews in the 1900s: the rabble who fled dysfunctional countries and brought their destructive ways and inferior cultures to pollute these shores.

Americans can tell themselves, all they want, that their immigration anxiety is all about border security or public safety. But the refrain at the heart of the modern immigration debate is the same one that has defined it for the last 250 years: There goes the neighborhood.

This week, with a couple of pen strokes, Trump began the process of helping to re-claim the neighborhood.

The first executive order sought to fulfill a major campaign promise by calling for the immediate construction of a physical wall along the U.S.-Mexico border. There is already about 650 miles worth of walls, fences, and other barriers on the nearly 2,000-mile border, and whole swaths of land where no barrier can be placed because of geographic impediments. The executive order also authorized the hiring of 5,000 additional border patrol agents despite the fact that there are already about 20,000 of them on the job and border patrol supervisors have complained that they cant train the workforce they have. All this because, as Trump said in a speech to DHS employees, a nation without borders is not a nation. The wall is expected to cost between $8 billion and $14 billion, money that Trump insists well get back from Mexico one way or another. Meanwhile, no one is 100 percent sure that such a physical barrier would be effective in keeping out border crossers.

Trumps second executive order focused on the enforcement of immigration laws, including withholding federal grant money from so-called sanctuary citieswhat Ive referred to as the unicorn of the immigration debate since there is no city in America where federal immigration law doesnt apply. The order also reinstates the Secure Communities Program, a really bad idea that allows Immigration and Customs Enforcement to rope local police into enforcing immigration law. Obama expanded that controversial program 100-fold during his time in the Oval Office, and used it as a force-multiplier to increase the number of deportations. But he eventually pulled the plug when the program came under attack by local and state officials who were concerned that it eroded trust between immigrant communities and police departments. Now, thanks to Trump, the bad idea is back.

Luckily, there was also one positive development. Trump later told ABC News that so-called DREAMersthose young undocumented immigrants who were brought here as children and who registered for temporary legal protection from deportation under the Obama Administration through Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)need not worry about being deported.

So what can each party do to help repair this relationship, or at least make it less combustible?

Latinos need to pick their battles wisely. The wall isnt the worst thing in the world, not when nearly a third of the U.S.-Mexico border is already protected by some sort of barrier put there by Democrats and Republicans alike. Latinos should keep their powder dry until he does worse. They should also praise Trump when he does something they agree with.

And Trump must try to make amends to Latinos, a community that he has gone out of his way to offend for the sake of scoring cheap political points with unsavory elements of the Republican Party. This might include additional appointments, special educational initiatives, maybe even a stab at immigration reform that allows some of the undocumented to remain in the United States once the border is secure and criminals have been removed.

The relationship between Trump and Latinos is in bad shape, but its not yet beyond repair. It can get better over time if both sides are willing to put in the effort to improve it. Lets get started.
After a protracted standoff between Queens College in New York and a pro-life student group that had been denied official recognition at the university, Queens College accepted the groups application for registered status on Friday.

The news came as thousands of anti-abortion advocates attended the annual March for Life in Washington, D.C., where Vice President Mike Pence promised pro-life voters that the Trump administration will work with the Congress to end taxpayer funding of abortion and abortion providers.

Earlier this week, Students for Life at Queens College filed a federal lawsuit claiming college officials violated the constitution in refusing to grant them registered status among more than 80 officially recognized student organizations, including religious groups like Campus Crusade for Christ, Chinese Christian Fellowship, and Muslim Students Association (PDF).

The suit argues that plaintiffs shouldnt have to pay mandatory student fees$303.85 per semester, roughly half of which is charged as a Student Activity Feeif those fees are distributed to student groups who only represent a pro-choice stance on womens reproductive rights.

Queens College Students for Life should be granted the same benefits and privileges as other registered groups, including access to a meeting space and funding, the lawsuit states.

The suit is predicated on the fact that Queens College is a public universitypart of the City University of New York systemand therefore cannot have policies that allow for discrimination.

Were happy to see that the group has been recognized, but that doesnt change the fact that the system for approving student groups is still unconstitutional, Casey Mattox, the attorney representing Queens College Students for Life, told The Daily Beast on Friday afternoon.

The system thats currently in place at Queens College gives complete, unconstitutional authority to a panel of students to either give a thumbs up or a thumbs down to student groups seeking official recognition, and then to provide student activity funding without any constitutional restraints, said Mattox, who is director of the Center for Academic Freedom with Alliance Defending Freedom, a Christian non-profit organization that aims to protect religious freedom, the sanctity of life, and marriage and family, according to its website.

Mattox was approached by Students for Life at Queens College after their application was rejected roughly six weeks ago. Norvilia Etienne, a plaintiff in the suit and sophomore at Queens College who filed the application on behalf of 14 other students in the group, asked why a student committee rejected them and was given no explanation, according to Mattox.

The lawsuit states that if students must pay mandatory fees, those fees should be distributed to student groups in a viewpoint-neutral fashion.

You cant just have a system that allows people to make decisions on subjective criteria and that is what Queens College has, said Mattox, noting that both the Supreme Court and lower courts have repeatedly held that this sort of referendum process is unconstitutional because it allows for the majority viewpoint to trump the minority viewpoint.

In a statement emailed to The Daily Beast late Friday, the Queens College Office of Student Affairs confirmed that they had reviewed and approved the Queens College Students for Lifes application to be officially recognized as a student group.

As with all student organizations, there are certain steps that must be taken to maintain active status, the statement said. Queens College welcomes the participation of all students in diverse campus activities Todays decision is consistent with the Colleges commitment to an open and inclusive environment.

Hours beforehand, the university had declined to comment on the lawsuit beyond stating that officials had initiated a review of reports of a complaint by some students that their application was rejected, and were reviewing the decision-making process, consistent with University policies.

Japneed Singh, a senior at Queens College and president of the student body, explained earlier in the day the process of reviewing student club applications for official recognition. Do the clubs goals apply to a relatively wide range of Queens College students? When the person who starts the club graduates, will there be someone within the group to take up leadership? Does a similar club already exist on campus?

We want clubs to be able to make the most of their budget. So if a small group of students wants to start a Hindu Student Association, for example, we might suggest that they work with the South Asian Student Associationas opposed to getting chartered and having a smaller budget, said Singh, who is not listed as a defendant in the lawsuit.

Singh explained that most clubs seeking recognition are asked to list potential students who are already interested in the club.

While some applications were signed by 50-100 students who wished to join their clubs, we didnt really see that from Students for Life, said Singh, who also confirmed that clubs are not allotted a budget until a year after they have been accepted and that older clubs have priority to the 30-40 meeting spaces on campus.

Newer clubs sometimes dont get a space until a year or two after theyve been chartered, and their budget is smaller than other clubs who have larger memberships, he said.

Singh also claimed that Students for Life did not contact him, the vice president of student affairs, the president of the college, or the chairperson of Queens Colleges Campus Affairs Committeewho is named as a defendant in the lawsuitabout being rejected: All of those steps were skipped and they went straight to filing a lawsuit, which surprised and shocked us all because we have protocols set up in case we overlook something.

Asked how they felt about Students for Life being officially recognized at the university, the Queens College Student Women's Center said in a statement emailed to The Daily Beast: "As a publicly funded institution, we understand the legal rights of the group to exist, however we will not tolerate hateful language towards women and those who exercise their right to choose as it violates autonomy."

Students for Life will continue to litigate their case because Queens College does not yet have a constitutionally sound policy for overseeing student clubs, according to Mattox.

They can take away [Queens College Students for Lifes] recognition at any point in the same way that they granted it, which is to say without any objective reason, he said, adding that its also unconstitutional for new student groups to receive less funding than more established groups.

You cant have a policy that discriminates against new ideas, Mattox said.

The lawsuit dropped two days after a newly-inaugurated President Trump signed an executive order reviving the so-called Global Gag Rule, which denies U.S. aid money to public health organizations that provide their patients abortion services or even abortion referrals.

Early news reports described Trumps executive order as something Republican administrations have reinstated ever since Ronald Reagan first issued it in 1984 as the so-called Mexico City policy. But reporters hadnt yet seen the fine print: Trumps version of the policy applies to all foreign public health organizations, and will affect up to $9.5 billion in U.S. global aid. By comparison, previous versions only affected $600 million in family-planning funding.
DALLAS -- Khaled Abdaan hasnt seen his mother since he fled Iraq four years ago with the help of the U.S. government.

On Saturday, he waited at the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport to see her for the first time. He wouldnt, thanks to an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on Friday night. Abdaans mother, 77-year-old Siham Abaas, was detained off a flight from Dubai on Saturday afternoon. Like countless people being detained in airports across the country, she will likely be sent out of the U.S. on the next available flight.

An official told me he was just following the law, Abdaan told The Daily Beast. I understand that. I myself would enforce the law. But what did my mother do wrong?

Abdaans mother was granted a visa weeks ago to travel to the U.S. to visit him, his wife and their two daughters, he said. By 3 p.m. Saturday, Abdaan hadnt heard from his mother for two hours.

Im disoriented, he said. Im worried because she is older. Has she taken her heart medication? I dont know.

Trump's ban was signed on Friday night, and by Saturday morning its effects were first being seen. At JFK International Airport in New York, Hameed Darweesh, an Iraqi man who worked with the U.S. Army overseas had been detained, sparking protests there.

The American Civil Liberties Union filed a lawsuit alleging Darweesh's right to due process had been violated, marking perhaps the first of many lawsuit that may come as a result of Trump's so-called Muslim ban.

In Dallas, Jason Clark of refugee-advocate group Seek the Peace said he expects at least some lawsuits to be filed on behalf of US visa holders like Abaas who had been detained.

Somewhere in the bowels of the Dallas airport, Abaas and nine others from the Dubai flight were being detained by officials. Their friends and family sat in an area reserved for those waiting on international arrivals, usually a joyous occasion. A family waited for their loved ones.

Welcome home, Jimenez family, their signs read.

Different signs surrounded where Abdaan others sat.

The Muslim ban is illegal.

Muslim ban breaking up families.

Release those detained at DFW!

America welcomes all!

Not anymore, thanks to Trump.

Abaas texted her son from Dubai after a final check of her visa. She was then let onto the flight and was in the air when Trump signed his order banning entry for 90 days citizens from Iraq and six other predominantly Muslim countries. By the time she arrived, the order was in full effect, and the grandmother of two was detained along with others on the flight where they remained into late afternoon on Saturday.

They told her they changed the regulations and her visa is not valid anymore, Abdaan recalled his mother saying in a text. Then, communication stopped.

She was asking when Id be able to come see her, Abdaan said. I told her I dont think I can.

Abdaans 9-year-old daughter sat at a table with a sign shed written before she and her father learned Abaas was being detained.

Grandma, welcome home, it read.
At only 16 years old, Doaa al Zamel and her family were forced from their home in Daraa, Syria when the Syrian Civil War began tearing the city apart. Buildings and streets were bombarded daily and crossing the street for a loaf of bread involved going through checkpoints and ducking to avoid stray bullets from the fighting going on elsewhere in the city. When a bomb destroyed her fathers barbershop, the al Zamel family decided the time had come to flee the city for their own safety. First, they found refuge in Egypt, but following a military coup that ousted the refugee-supporting President Mohamed Morsi, the tide turned for refugees in that country. Feeling threatened by locals, Doaa and her new fiancee, Bassem, decided to risk their lives to cross the Mediterranean Sea to Europe. Doaa was 19 when they finally set sail. After four days crammed onto a smugglers boat with more than 500 others, they were rammed and sunk by another ship. Awaiting rescue, Doaa floated in the sea for another four days while most of her fellow passengers continued to die around her. Only a handful would survive. After Bassem lost his strength and passed away, Doaa was ready to give up, too. But there were two infants, 6 and 9 months old, entrusted to her when their families couldnt go on any longer. She held on for their sake, that they might be rescued and survive. A Hope More Powerful Than the Sea: One Refugees Incredible Story of Love, Loss, and Survival by Melissa Fleming (Flatiron Books) is Doaas story of strength, resilience, and the power of the human spirit in times of devastating tragedy that sheds light on the Syrian refugee crisis from the point of view of one remarkable woman.

Ive heard from the news that some people dont want refugees in their country, especially from Syria. Were seen as being a risk to security, thought of as terrorists. We leave behind everything we know and love because we have no other options. I think maybe people dont know who we are which is why were so misunderstood. I am one of the millions of refugees that was forced to leave their home out of fear and desperation and with a broken heart. Let me tell you a little about myself so you can get to know me. My name is Doaa, Im 21 and I come from a big family with 5 sisters and one brother. My sisters like to tease me and say Im stubborn, and I guess I can be sometimes. I like music and fashion. I have fond memories of the rooftop in my hometown of Daraa, Syria where I would gather with my friends after school and we would dance to our favorite songs. My mother took care of our big family while my father ran a barbershop in town. When I was younger I loved helping him at his shop, sweeping up hair and giving tea to customers. He called me his little professional, and I dreamed that one day I could go to university and make something of myself. Then war in my country changed everything.

While my family was living in Egypt as refugees I met the love of my life: Bassem. He was Syrian as well. He was an opposition fighter who fled to Egypt after his brother was killed by security forces. The first time I met Bassem, I barely noticed him. He had a big heart and always looked after my family. I soon discovered that I was falling in love with him and when he eventually worked up the courage to ask me to marry him and I said yes. Bassem and I would go on long walks planning our wedding and talking about future together. Hed spoil me with little presents and called me Dodo, his pet name for me. But soon we realized we did not have a future in Egypt. Finding work was difficult and as political unrest in Egypt grew, people started to turn against us refugees. We realized Egypt was no place for a future. Since we could not go back to Syria we started making plans to go to Europe. We knew the risks but we saw no other choice.

Bassem and I decided to take a boat from Egypt to Italy, and then move on to Sweden. Once there we would apply for amnesty, find jobs, and a place to live where we would hopefully be able to live together in peace. We decided to risk everything just to have the chance at a decent life and in the end Bassem paid the price for my freedom.

We handed some smugglers everything we had, including our lives. They put us on a rusty old fishing boat with 500 other men, women and children. After four days at sea our boat was rammed by a ship with angry men on it. They yelled insults at us as the boat began to sink. As people were drowning around us Bassem found a small inflatable ring and had me get in while he held on to the side to stay afloat. On day two in the sea, I noticed that Bassem was growing weaker. His skin was turning blue and it seemed like he was going mad. I wondered if we would ever be rescued when an old man swam over and handed me his 9-month-old granddaughter. Her name was Malak.

The old man knew he would not survive but thought I might and asked me to look after her in his place. I cradled Malak like she was my own and sang her lullabies whenever she started crying. But Bassem was still weak and I was trying to hold on to him while holding Malak in my arm. All of a sudden I felt Bassem slip from my hand as his body went limp and he was taken by the sea.

I was overcome with sadness and didnt want to go on but I knew that Malak needed me. Shortly after Bassem was taken from me, a woman swam over and asked me to save her baby. Masa was 18 months old and as I held her and Malak I knew that no matter how scared, tired and heartbroken I was I needed to do everything I could to keep these two little girls alive.

After our fourth day floating on the Mediterranean we were found by a tanker ship and I thought about how it was finally over. I held out as long as I could and now Malak and Masa were with people who could help them, and I could finally join Bassem at the bottom of the sea. But then I was pulled up onto the ship with people looking after me, and soon we were on our way to Crete where even more people were waiting to help. I didnt think this could be real life and each time I woke up I looked for Bassem, thinking this was all a nightmare.

I live in Sweden now with my family, a wonderful country that gave us refuge. But the real nightmare still replays in my head and I wonder if we had done something differently would Bassem and I still be together and living somewhere safe? Im still sad, I still have nightmares, and I know that I will never find someone like Bassem, but I keep going for him so that his death will mean something. And I keep going out of hope. The hope that one day I and my people will be able to safely return to Syria, the country that I love.
ON THE BANKS OF THE CANNONBALL RIVER, North DakotaIn the first Battle of Standing Rock, the pipeline resisters and the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe stood together.

Thousands came to Stand with Standing Rock in a collective effort to block the 1,172-mile, 500,000-barrel-a-day oil pipeline from completing its journey under the nearby Missouri River. Through prayer and direct action, they pledged to protect the water for Dakota Natives and some 17 million other Americans, and to prevent the desecration of Native sites. Representatives of some 300 North American tribes planted flags here, and Standing Rock became an international symbol of Native rights and the fight over climate change.

In the second Battle of Standing Rock, as a brutal winter settles in on the Northern Plains, many tribal officials and the hardy water protectors are squaring off.

Under other circumstances President Trumps renewed vow to build the pipeline might have united the two factions. But the tribe wants pipeline foes to leave before anyone freezes to death or drowns when the annual spring snow melt inundates the main protest camp. The Standing Rock Tribal Council, citing public safety, is urging the water protectors to shut down all three protest encampments along the Cannonball River. This despite the fact that the original camp, Sacred Stone, is on high ground and private land. The land belongs to Ladonna Bravebull Allard, who has vowed to keep Sacred Stone open. And in a stunning move, the chairman of the nearby Cheyenne River tribe, Harold Frazier, announced the lease of 25 acres of land on the Standing Rock reservation, where pipeline resisters will also be welcome. Many in the camps, including enrolled members of the Standing Rock tribe, resent the councils edict and have no intention of following it.

No, I dont plan on leaving, said Joseph Hock, a Native and military veteran from Michigan. Ill leave when the grandmothers and the matriarchs of the Standing Rock nation ask me to leave. Until then, Im going to stay.

Last summer the Oceti Sakowin (Seven Council Fires) camp reached an estimated 10,000 people, more than all but nine North Dakota cities. Now it has dwindled to the few hundred hardy campersperhaps 50-50 Natives and non-Nativeswilling to brave the subzero temperatures and roaring winds of the Northern Plains. Dirt rings reveal where teepees once stood; summer canvas tents peak out from under snow drifts.

Interviews Thursday revealed a fledgling resistance camp rife with confusion, skepticism, and some flickering hope.

Our original purpose in being here [was] taking part in those actions, said Hahano Namoa, a Native Islander from Hawaii who stood warming himself next to a wood stove in a military-style tent. The temperature inside was in the balmy 50san improvement over recent sub-zero days, when campers struggled to get any structure warmer than 38 degrees.

Were getting pulled from multiple angles, said Namoa. The Standing Rock tribe is saying, Get off our land. But this momentum we createdit would be a real shame if we all just went our separate ways. In the beginning, Namoa said, it was a really cool thing to be part of, and help move forward. Now, with the Trump order, nothing short of a miracle is going to stop that pipeline.

Others say reinforcements are heading toward camp, despite the Tribes edict.

Theyre already coming, said Donald Anthony Long Soldier, rubbing his hands together as he joined Namoa at the woodstove. Theyre at the hotels. They let me know theyre coming. Long Soldier, a Lakota from Pine Ridge, gave his age as 184 seasons, or 46 years. I dont feel afraid, he said. I know these spirits here are going to help us. I know its going to be stopped.

Its far from clear how many new water protectors intend to come, or exactly where they would stay, given that the main camp is in a flood plain and that all residents must move to higher ground in coming weeks. A mass cleanup of the camp will begin next week.

Tribal authorities believe the front lines have largely moved to the streets of American cities, and to the courtroom. The tribe is suing to force Trump to honor the Army Corps of Engineers pledge, made in the waning days of President Obamas term, to undertake an Environmental Impact Statement before granting permission to Energy Transfer Partners, the Fortune 500 company, to build the pipeline under the river. That would be nearly the last step before oil begins to flow.

The law requires that changes in agency positions be backed by new circumstances or new evidence, not simply by the Presidents whim, Standing Rock Chairman David Archambault wrote to Trump, pointing out the the close personal ties you and your associates have had with Energy Transfer Partners.

Some camp residents are clearly hurt that the tribe would ask them to leave after the months they have spent on the front lines, defending the tribe and its water supplyespecially in light of Trumps announcement this week. In a statement on Thursday, the tribal council declared that it understands that many wish to return to camp given the Presidential Memorandum issued Tuesday that attempts to push DAPL forward. We stress, however, that further actions at the camp and at the bridge and drill pad are not where we will find success in this struggle moving forward the focus must shift from maintaining camps to being at the political and legal forefront.

One clear worry for the tribe is increasingly dangerous frontline confrontation between protestors and police. Since August, Morton County authorities have made more than 620 arrests, most on misdemeanor criminal charges that include engaging in a riot. Yet the violence has come almost entirely from police against unarmed protestors. The militarized force, often hundreds strong, is made up of state police, sheriffs deputies from seven states, and the North Dakota National Guard. In the middle stands an MRAP, an Iraq war surplus vehicle built to withstand IED explosions. Police have fired rubber bullets, pepper spray, non-lethal beanbag rounds, sound cannons, and water hoses in subfreezing temperatures. One young woman nearly got her arm blown off in an explosion; another was shot in the eye by a tear gas canister. Hundreds have suffered lesser injuries or were treated for hypothermia from the police soakings.

For months, pipeline resisters contended with false police allegations, later retracted, that protestors wielded pipe bombs or bows and arrows. In fact, for the most part, they faced down the authorities with prayer, smudging police with the smoke from sacred bundles of wildgrass and sage.

This started with a prayer in April, and the world responded to the peacefulness of the prayer, said Retha Henderson, who holds Lakota and Irish-Celtic ancestry and who felt called to the plains last summer to join the prayers. She hitchhiked from Tennessee. There was a ceremony where the ancestors spoke that we had to stay peaceful, we had to stay in prayer, we had to stay like stones. Prayer has scared them [the authorities] to death.

Now, however, as frustration builds, the camp shrinks and its tenor shifts, more protestors are releasing their anger at authorities.

They were telling the police that they are lower than whale shit, said Henderson. They were calling the police motherfuckers. They were throwing snowballs at police. Snowballs dont hurt you. But it is the act of throwing something at them that is aggression, and thats not what were here for. This, Henderson and others said, is a major unstated reason for the tribal councils directive to the protestors to go home.

Yet some here believe such fury is sparked by infiltratorsagents provocateurs sent by authorities or the pipeline company to besmirch the reputation of the anti-pipeline movement. DAPL has provocateurs, and during actions they create turmoil, said Hock, the Michigan Native and veteran. Strong evidence, and the long history of resistance movements, point to repeated infiltrations, though it is impossible to know how many water protectors have simply let their anger get the better of them.

Either way, the situation is likely to worsen if the Army Corps approves the final step of the pipeline, as Trump has directed. Already North Dakotas governor has requested that the Trump administration provide federal law enforcement resources to assist in upholding the law and protecting people and property rights. Adding federal police to the mixbe they Border Patrol, U.S. Marshalls, ATF agents, or otherswould almost surely escalate an already high-stakes, violent showdown.

Afraid is not the word I would use, said Linda Black Elk, an ethnobotanist professor at Sitting Bull College, and member of the Standing Rock Medic and Healer Council. She sat in the midwives yurt of the camps medic area. It was so warm she took off her winter coat.

Despite her expressed lack of fear, Black Elk said she also believed that in future confrontations, she and other water protectors could well stand up on that front line and face clubs to the head, or possibly even live rounds. I will stand there to protect my children and I will sacrifice whatever I have to, she said, her eyes growing watery.

Im a mom and a teacher. I never thought I would have to say that I might have to put my freedom or my life on the line to protect my childrens legacy. But Im willing to do it.
By Press Trust of India: Shillong, Jan 28 (PTI) Three women workers and a private secretary, appointed personally by former Governor V Shanmuganathan in Meghalaya, were today sacked after their services were found to be in variance with norms, Raj Bhavan officials said here.

The four - a cook from Chennai, a private secretary from Lucknow, his personal assistant from Assam and local public relation officer - were sacked, Raj Bhavan Secretary H Shangpliang told PTI.

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He said the contractual services of these people appointed by Shanmuganathan are co-terminus with the term of the governor.

Shanmuganathan was forced to resign on January 26 after a section of Raj Bhavan staff shot a complaint to Prime Minister Narendra Modi complaining about the formers role in comprising with the dignity of the highest office in the state by turning it into a "young ladies club".

During his tenure from May last year, Shanmuganathan had appointed three women and a person from Lucknow, as recommended by his close political aide, a Raj Bhavan employee told PTI on condition of anonymity.

The employee alleged that interviews for these job seekers were also conducted by the Governor himself and at odd hours.

Women activists in the state have now demanded an inquiry into the whole episode resulting in the Raj Bhavan scandal.

"We now need a speedy and decisive inquiry to be initiated which should lead to prosecution," said Angela Rangad, Convenor of Thma u Rangli (TUR) a progressive people?s group in the state.

"Now that he is not the Governor anymore, Article 361 is not operational, and we do not need prior sanction from the President (for his prosecution)," she said.

"It should not be that now he tendered his resignation and that is the end of it. Only this (prosecution) will send out the right message that nobody in any high office can get away with abusing their power," she added.

President Pranab Mukherjee had yesterday accepted the resignation of former Governor V Shanmuganathan and gave charge of the office to Assam Governor B Purohit. PTI JOP SUS ASV

--- ENDS ---
When Utah Senator Reed Smoot moved to Washington in 1903, he endured an even harsher welcome than Donald Trumps.

This Mormon apostleelevated in 1900and first LDS senator had to battle anti-Mormon prejudice for four years until President Theodore Roosevelt bullied Republican senators into seating him formally. Smoot inspired what became a classic headlineSMOOT SMITES SMUTwith an anti-obscenity crusade that prompted the poet Ogden Nash to mock Smoot of Ut. This priggish protectionist co-sponsored 1930s destructive, ultra-nationalist, anti-Free Trade, Smoot-Hawley Tariff. So, with apologies to Nash, because he wasnt economically astute, Smoot of Ut made the Depression more acute.

Although Smoots name remains a punchline among geeks, members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints revere this pathbreaker whose success in secular America helped Mormons go mainstream. When this 41-year-old Republican banker and businessman reached the Senate, most Americans considered Mormons un-Christian and un-American polygamists. Typical was the sermon the Presbyterian minister Charles H. Parkhurst preached in 1904 in New York on The Mormon Peril. Opposing Smoot continued resisting the reckless granting of statehood to Utah in 1896, despite what Parkhurst called the Mormons essential vileness.

The LDS church banned polygamy in 1890 and Utahs state constitution outlawed it. Still many Protestantsand early feministsconsidered Mormons moral lepers. More than 3 million people signed petitions encouraging what became a two-year Senate investigation into whether Mormonism imposed an obligation of hostility to the United States. One newspaper, hoping Smoot would get the boot, demanded: Scoot Smoot scoot. The Senate Committee on Privileges and Elections agreed in June 1906.

The haters targeted the wrong Smoot. Smoots father, a former Salt Lake City mayor, had six wives and 27 children. Theodore Roosevelt later reported (PDF)too candidlythat the lean, severe, younger Smoot, not only assured me he was not a polygamist, but assured me that he had never had any relations with any woman excepting his own wife. TR endured cussing up-hill and down-dale for supporting Smoot and Mormons religious freedom. The Republican-dominated Senate finally seated Senator Smoot on Feb. 20, 1907.

This ordeal scarred Smoot and his wife Alpha. Serving as senator until 1933, including chairing the finance committee for 10 years, he never stopped trying to prove himself. He was extra diligent, pure, pious, patrioticand smug.

In November 1917, when the Senate voted to enter the Great War, Smoot became the first senator ever to pray formally on record in the Senate chamber. God bless and approve the action to be taken by the Senate this day, he pleaded. He reported that his fellow senators and the gallery onlookers were profoundly moved.

In 1929, as the economy tanked, Smoot spearheaded the fight that would blacken his legacyand cost him his Senate seat. Smoot pushed a puritanical, patriotic, protectionist tariffwith Sec. 305 banning the importation of obscene material. Smoot spent Christmas vacation reading obscene novels imported by foreigners, returning with a stack of smutty quotations. In the classic manner of purity champions, the historian Paul Boyer gibes, he could not resist sharing the filth. When Smoot proposed presenting his findings to a closed Senate session, reporters anticipated a Senatorial stag party.

Smoots crusade annoyed the word-juggling versifier, Ogden Nash. Nashs poem Invocation appeared in The New Yorker in January 1930. It began:

Senator Smoot (Republican, Ut.)Is planning a ban on smut.Oh rooti-ti-toot for Smoot of Ut.And his reverend occiput.Smite, Smoot, smite for Ut.,Grit your molars and do your dut.,Gird up your l__ns,Smite h_p and th_gh,Well all be KansasBy and by.

Such contempt reinforced Smoots determination to throw the arms of protection around the army of boys and girls.

Smoot and his co-sponsor Congressman Willis C. Hawley, the chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, wanted to throw their arms of protection around American industry too. If the government made foreign goods more costly, they reasoned, Americans would buy American, boosting the economy. In words that sound familiar, Smoot said tariff opponents were spreading propaganda from un-American and international sources. He insisted: No foreign country has the right to interfere. Stirring Americas isolationist paranoia, he refused to surrender our national prestige and power on the altar of internationalism. Smoot did not want to see any American industry swamped by foreign competition, nor did he wish to build a wall around this country so high as to practically shut off importation of foreign products or unduly restrict the exportation of American products.

The economic misery sharpened the tariff battle. One thousand and twenty eight economists signed a letter denouncing the bill. The banker Thomas Lamont, recalled I almost went on my hands and knees to beg Herbert Hoover to veto the asinine Hawley-Smoot Tariff. That act intensified nationalism all over the world. General Motors Economic Director Graeme K. Howard telegrammed from Europe: PASSAGE BILL WOULD SPELL ECONOMIC ISOLATION UNITED STATES AND MOST SEVERE DEPRESSION EVER EXPERIENCED.

The Smoot-Hawley Tariff became law on June 17, 1930, raising taxes on 20,000 imported goods. Its obscenity provision defined the moral sense of the average person as the standard for determining exclusion, although there were exceptions for classics.

Thirty-three countries protested formally. France, Australia, India, even Canada, retaliated. European governments now struggled to get the gold they needed to pay off their World War I debts to America. In two years U.S. imports dropped more than 40 percent, the historian Amity Shlaes reports; unemployment jumped 16 percent. Beyond the specific damages, the bill rattled markets and confidence globally, suggesting, the MIT economist Charles Kindleberger noted, that no one was in charge. While some economists question whether the higher tariffs were that damaging, the economic and historic consensus is that the act proved that if you raise tariffs too high, retaliatory trade wars will choke American exports.

Franklin Roosevelts New Deal tidal wave of 1932 swept away Protectionist Republicans, sending Smoot back to Utah. Smoot died in 1941. By then, World War II had jumpstarted Americas recovery from this Great Depression exacerbated by the mainstreaming Mormon whose cultural Yahooism, narrow nationalism, and economic illiteracy upstaged his fight for religious freedom.

During the Clinton-era NAFTA debate, Vice President Al Gore sought to embarrass Free Trade opponents. While debating the issue on the Larry King Show, Gore gave the protectionist billionaire Ross Perot a present: a photograph of Hawley and Smootprofiles in impotence.

Back in 1930, Nash ended his poem: Smite, Smoot, Be rugged and rough, Smut if smitten, Is front-page stuff. These days, arcane questions about tariffs and free trade, reduced to simplistic slogans and misleading symbols, are front-page stuff againlets hope they prove less damaging.

FURTHER READING

Paul S. Boyer, Purity in Print: Censorship in America from the Gilded Age to the Computer Age (2002). Examines the fight over the obscenity clause S. 305 in the Tariff in context.

David M. Kennedy, Freedom from Fear: The American People in Depression and War, 1929-1945 (1999, 2001). A great, thorough, historical overview.

Amity Shlaes, The Forgotten Man: A New History of the Great Depression (2007, 2008). A thought-provoking somewhat unconventional, free market take on the Great Depression.
Anti-transgender bathroom bills are like horror movie villains: No matter how many times you kill them, they keep coming back.

Such is the case with South Dakotas unkillable bathroom bill, which Republican Governor Dennis Daugaard vetoed last year, writing that it does not address any pressing issue concerning the school districts of South Dakota.

Seemingly suffering from amnesia, the South Dakota state legislature decided to kick off 2017 by again considering a measure that would ban transgender students from using school facilities that correspond with their gender, as the Associated Press reported earlier this week.

Once again, Gov. Daugaard announced this Thursday that he would veto the bill if it came to him, telling South Dakota Public Radio, I havent heard one instance of a problem in this area. Not one. But we have seen major problems in North Carolina when a bill like this was enacted.

The severe economic ramifications that North Carolina is suffering over its own anti-LGBT law, HB2, may prevent South Dakota from following a similar fate.

But that hasnt stopped several other states that are considering anti-transgender legislation in 2017, even if they have already failed once before.

The false pretense of protecting women and minors from sexual predators posing as transgender peoplea problem that, as The Daily Beasts Jay Michaelson has repeatedly reported, was invented by anti-LGBT groupsis finally starting to wear off.

No, the new wave of bathroom bills is directly, clearly, and unmistakably targeted at transgender people themselves.

According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, legislators in 11 states concentrated in the South and Midwestincluding Texas, South Carolina, and Minnesotahave bathroom bills under consideration in the 2017 legislative session. If it wasnt apparent before that some state legislators wont quit until they manage to codify transphobia into law, it should be eminently clear by now.

Take, for instance, South Dakotas second bathroom bill go-round, which would define a persons biological sex by their original birth certificate, as ThinkProgress highlighted. (The recently-defeated bathroom bill in Virginia used similar language.)

In the majority of U.S. statesas the lawmakers behind these bills must realizetransgender people can have their birth certificate amended or reissued following sex reassignment surgery, which means that the bill could have banned transgender women with vaginas from using the womens room and transgender men with penises from using the mens room.

If the goal of these bills were to keep different kinds of genitals from coexisting in one private space, the original birth certificate language would not be necessary; the presence of that language indicates that transgender people are indeed the intended target, not sexual predators.

(An unforeseen consequence of these original birth certificate bills would be to ban cisgender people who have corrected clerical errors in the sex/gender fields on their birth documents from using the right bathrooms, too (PDF). So far, the text of these bills have not made any provision for that not-unheard-of circumstance.)

Contrast the original birth certificate approach with another anti-transgender bathroom bill filed in Washington state, HB 1011, which applies to any person [who] is preoperative, nonoperative, or otherwise has genitalia of a different gender from that for which the facility is segregated.

This bill, at least, makes a small exception for people who have undergone sex reassignment surgery but, by using language like preoperative, it still decidedly puts transgender people in its crosshairs.

Many transgender people cannot afford costly surgery, have a health contraindication that would prevent them from receiving it, or do not find it necessary to alleviate their dysphoria, but HB 1011 would still treat them as if they were entering the bathroom for a nefarious purpose.

And while Washington legislators try to define gender by genitalia, Kansas state Rep. John Whitmer wants to define it by chromosomes.

As The Hutchinson News reported Thursday, Whitmer proposed an anti-transgender bathroom bill last year that failed to advance.

But hes back at it again with HB 2171 (PDF), a bill introduced on Thursday that would define sex as the physical condition of being male or female, which is determined by a persons chromosomes, and is identified at birth by a persons anatomy. (This is similar to the language that appeared in last years version of South Dakotas bathroom bill as well as the bathroom bill currently under consideration in Minnesota.)

This chromosome provision is virtually unenforceable: Would potential restroom users have to carry a karyotype with them wherever they went? It also explicitly targets transgender people, defining them not by their lives or even their bodies but by their DNA.

In so doing, it would also open up a range of potential unintended targets: How would Kansas handle restroom use for intersex children, for example, or others born with a chromosomal makeup that is neither XX nor XY? Sex, it seems, is not always as easy to define as some state legislators seem to think it is.

Even as the full-on attack on transgender restroom rights enters its second year, there are still those who insist that bathroom bills have nothing to do with transgender people.

In Texas, where the state legislature is currently considering SB 6 despite widespread threats of boycotts, state Senator Lois Kolkhorst said this past Tuesday, Its really not about the transgender. Its about other people that will abuse that.

But if sexual predators are really the concern here rather than the transgender, why arent these states simply beefing up the punishments for violations of their preexisting voyeurism and peeping Tom laws?

Why start dividing people up by their chromosomes, genitalia, and birth certificates when predatory behavior in bathrooms and locker rooms is already illegal?

The answer to those questions is obvious: These bills are aimed squarely at transgender people, who already suffer widespread violence, discrimination, and harassment, often inside bathrooms themselves.

The answer to the following question is, sadly, less clear: When will these bathroom bills stop?
Nike Cuts Ties With Kyrie Irving Over Hate Speech

JUST DID IT

The brand has suspended its relationship with Irving and will no longer release the Kyrie 8.
Goa RSS chief Subhash Velingkar has been critical of the BJP government and now with a political party of his own, the rebel saffron leader is ready to contest assembly polls in the state.

By Sahil Joshi: The disciplinarian Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh is facing an open revolt for the first time in history. Goa RSS chief Subhash Velingkar has rebelled against the saffron outfit over its self-imposed ban on contesting elections.

Velingkar has formed a political outfit, Goa Suraksha Manch to fight elections against BJP government in the state in alliance with the Maharashtravadi Gomantak Party and Shiv Sena.

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Velingkar talked to India Today about how former Goa Chief Minister and current Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar and BJP betrayed the state and its culture, and how he wished to change the image.

READ| Goa: Teddy bear awaits first-time women voters at polling booths

Here are the excerpts:

IT: You and BJP belonged to same 'pariwar'. Now what has happened that you are calling BJP 'rakshas' in your speeches?

Velingkar: 'Rakshas' were known for destroying culture. The BJP is doing the same here (in Goa). They are destroying Konkani our mother tounge and our language. When (Manohar) Parrikar was the Leader of Opposition in the state, he demanded that the Congress government should not give grants to English medium schools as it would destroy the Goan culture. But, when he came to power, he did exactly what the Congress had done earlier.

IT: But, it looks like there are many more reasons. It seems you have some other problems with the BJP. Isn't it true?

Velingkar: We brought the BJP to power by toppling Congress in Goa and of course, we had expectations from them (the BJP), but they betrayed those expectations. The RSS workers stood against Congress because they were destroying Goa's culture and now BJP is doing the same.

READ| Cong trying to bounce back in Goa through upcoming polls

IT: What culture you are talking about which is being destroyed?

Velingkar: People from outside say Goa is made of 3 Ps- pigs, pegs and prostitutes. Is this our culture? Actually, Indian ethos is backbone of Goa's culture, which shouldn't be broken. Goan culture is not pro-Portuguese culture. The way it is being projected saying that it is a fusion culture but we call it 'rape culture'. All these people (the Congress and the BJP) tried to market Goan culture as fusion culture of Portuguese and India.

IT: But don't you think that tourism in Goa has increased because of that very fusion culture? Doesn't that generate employment for Goans?

Velingkar: I don't agree with this. You get money even by getting in to prostitution. But that doesn't make 'pativrata' (a devoted wife) to leave her 'dharma'. But there is something called culture and those who work for it should be supported by Goans.

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READ| Corruption a key issue in Goa, says AAPs CM candidate

IT: There are 27 per cent Christians in Goa. What message are you sending to them?

Velingkar: I am not talking about Hindu culture, it is Indian culture. All are part of this culture even many Christians feel the same way. The Congress and the BJP are destroying it (the Goan culture).

IT: Will you stop what happens in Goa in the name of tourism if you come to power?

Velingkar: We are just opposing what is called black spot on Goa. All these casinos and nudity on beaches is what Goa is now. We will have good tourism not distorted one.

READ| After BJP leader Vinay Katiyar's sexist comment, Smriti Irani seen asking women to lead campaigns in Goa

IT: You have been thrown out of the RSS for not complying to the rules that prohibited a member from contesting elections.

Velingkar: I have not flouted any rule of the RSS. I am still an RSS member. I am doing what our leaders in the RSS taught us- fight for culture. The day elections in Goa will be over I will join back RSS shakha.

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Carlsberg UK updates flagship brand

Furthering its reinvention, Carlsberg UK has launched a limited-edition packaging for its flagship brand, Carlsberg. The packaging, called The Kbenhavn Collection', is part of a 15m marketing spend, hoping to connect the brand with millenials.

Inspired by the simplicity of Danish design, each pack in the Kbenhavn Collection  Danish for Copenhagen  embodies an abstract interpretation of Carlsberg beers ingredients: barley, hops and its legendary brewers yeast.

The limited edition packs will be available across the UK off-trade between February and September 2017 in a variety of can and bottle formats, including a new premium 330ml-sized bottle and secondary outer packaging. The premium 330ml-sized bottle will also be available in UK on-trade pubs, bars and restaurants.

Liam Newton, vice president of marketing, Carlsberg UK says: The Kbenhavn Collection is a bold launch for Carlsberg in the UK, marking 170 years of brewing excellence. Carlsberg has a remarkable place in the history of brewing when our founder, J.C. Jacobsen, and his team of beer scientists discovered purified yeast in 1883  which changed the quality of lager that is enjoyed to this day. These designs communicate Carlsbergs unique place in beer in a manner that we believe will engage millennials.

The Kbenhavn Collection complements the new-look design for the brewers premium Carlsberg Export brand, also available from February. The brand has transformed with a stylish design that is influenced by the cross from the Danish flag, while the signature of founder, J.C. Jacobsen, and the word Kbenhavn underline the brands roots.

The relaunch of the Carlsberg brand will be supported by a 15m campaign incorporating media and integrated consumer activity, launching in April. The campaign will celebrate the brands Danish heritage and taps into consumer demand for authenticity and the trend towards premiumisation in the beer category.

28 January 2017 - Sam Coyne The Drinks Report, editorial assistant
By Press Trust of India: Mumbai, Jan 28: Moods, one of Indias popular condom brands from public sector HLL Lifecare Limited (HLL), has received this year?s ?Prestigious Brands of Asia Awards.?

HLL CMD R P Khandelwal received the award at the Marketing Meister Summit 2017 held in Mumbai, a release from the company said today.

?It is an honour to receive this award for MOODS. This prestigious award is a true recognition of our commitment to quality and customer delight," Khandelwal said.

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?We rank among the leading producers of condoms in the world, with the capacity to produce 2 billion condoms annually, using the finest technology available and with a highly qualified and experienced team in charge of every step of the process,? he added.

Launched in 1987 as the HLL?s flagship brand, Moods comes in 19 variants and it is exported to more than 33 countries in Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Europe, South America and the Caribbean Islands.PTI NM NM SDM

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The girl suffered 80 per cent burn injuries and is currently battling for a her life at a hospital. Police have registered a case in the matter.

By Ashish Pandey: In a horrific incident, a mother in Shamshabad, in suburban Hyderabad, allegedly set her daughter on fire over a trivial household issue. The accused mother Swaroopa committed the act in a fit of anger after her nine-year-old daughter spilled flour on the floor.

The girl, who is in the fifth standard, is currently battling for her life after suffering 80 per cent burn injuries. She is undergoing treatment at the burn ward of Osmania General Hospital of Hyderabad.

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The Shadnagar police have registered a case against the mother and are further investigating the case.

"(The) mother had asked the girl to bring flour in a plate. However, the little girl accidentally spill the flour on the floor. This made Swaroopa so angry that (she) first beat the girl and later doused her in kerosene and set her ablaze," said a sub-inspector from the Shadnagar police station.

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By Press Trust of India: From Gurdip Singh

Singapore, Jan 28 (PTI) An Indian-origin magician in Singapore has been charged with multiple counts of helping others to fraudulently obtain cash payouts and bonuses amounting to USD 7.6 lakh.

S Chandran, 35, was charged yesterday with 58 counts of helping 49 claimants to fraudulently get state-funded Productivity and Innovation Credit (PIC) cash payouts and bonuses amounting to 1.1 million Singapore dollars (USD 7.6 lakh).

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This is the biggest case involving an alleged PIC promoter in Singapore, The Straits Times reported.

Chandran, owner of consultancy firm Paradize Consultancy, was offered bail of 200,000 dollars (USD 1.3 lakh). He will return to court on February 3.

He is a winner of the 2014 International Magicians Societys Merlin Award, acted a PIC broker and received about 400,000 dollars from the payouts. He also holds doctorate in magic studies from the US, the report said.

The alleged offences occurred between June 2013 and November 2014. The Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) has conducted extensive investigations into a number of suspicious PIC claims.

IRAS investigations found that many of the suspicious claims were linked to Chandran. About 200 people were called up to assist in the investigations.

The PIC scheme offers tax deductions or cash payouts to companies that invest in areas such as staff training, information technology or automation equipment to boost their productivity.

If convicted, Chandran faces a mandatory penalty of four times the amount of cash payout or PIC bonus. He is also liable to a fine of up to 50,000 dollars or a jail term of up to five years per charge. PTI GS AJR MVV

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The organisers have been advised by the deputy commissioner and police commissioner of Mangaluru not to defy the ban and conduct a kambala race as a mark of protest.

By Rohini Swamy: Demanding an immediate ordinance to lift the ban on traditional buffalo race kambala in Karnataka on the lines of the successful jallikattu stir, thousands of supporters participated in a massive protest march this morning at Moodbidri town near Mangaluru.

The procession from Swaraj Maidan in Moodbidri started around 10 am and witnessed a participation of nearly 15,000 supporters carrying 200 bullocks in a 4 km-long procession.

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The Karnataka government has already decided to legalise kambala and may table a bill on this in the upcoming session of the state legislature.

In November 2016 the Karnataka High Court had passed an interim order restraining holding of kambala. An interim application filed by the Kambala Samiti seeking lifting of the ban is scheduled for January 30.

Also read | Kambala agitation: 10 things you should know about the buffalo race

The organisers have been advised by the deputy commissioner and police commissioner of Mangaluru not to defy the ban and conduct a kambala race as a mark of protest.

Moodabidri (Karnataka): Protesters gather at Swaraj Grounds in support of Buffalo race #Kambala pic.twitter.com/2uIjwXU4tZ ANI (@ANI_news) January 28, 2017

Yesterday also students, artistes and politicians had staged a massive protest here demanding removal of the ban on kambala, a traditional buffalo race held in the coastal region annually.

WHO ALL PROTESTED

Members of the All-College Students' Association along with Tulu film artistes, Yakshagana artistes, politicians and members of Tulunada Rakshana Vedike staged protest at Hampankatta here, lending momentum to the growing demand on the issue.

Also read: Here are a few differences between Jallikattu and Kambala that you should know

Noted personalities from Tulu film industry including actors Devdas Kapikad, Naveen D Padil, Bhojaraj Vamanjoor, director-producer Vijay Kumar Kodailbail, BJP MP Nalin Kumar Kateel, Congress MLA Mohiuddin Bava and others called for immediate government action to ensure continuation of kambala.

Students from various colleges formed a human chain.

Kateel said kambala had history of 800 years and it was a tradition of Tulunadu.

Tulu, a Dravidian language, is spoken in a small region, mainly in coastal Karnataka and Kerala's Kasaragod district, collectively known as Tulu Nadu.

PETA PROJECTING KAMBALA WRONGLY: STUDENTS

The student fraternity had gathered to protect kambala and prove youth power, he said alleging that People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals was projecting kambala in a wrong way claiming that buffaloes were subjected to cruelty, but in fact they were treated with great care and concern.

The protest would continue until ban on kambala was withdrawn, he said.

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Also read: Karnataka MLA says will go to jail if ban on Kambala is not lifted

Kateel had on Thursday threatened to observe a fast unto death if the state government did not promulgate an ordinance on kambala.

Addressing the protest, Bava said kambala was a unifying sport and the people of the district were closely attached to it irrespective of religion, caste and creed. The fight would be continued "until justice is done".

Theatre director Vijaykumar Kodialbail said there was no instance of buffaloes being tortured during kambala and it could not be compared to Tamil Nadu's bull taming sport of jallikattu.

WATCH VIDEO

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How to watch, stream and listen to Iowa football's game against Purdue
It is an annual buffalo race going on for early 8 centuries. The tradition is followed in the area of Dakshin Kannada and Udupi districts of coastal Karnataka.

Kambala is a contest where two pairs of buffaloes tied ploughs are made to race on slush-filled tracks with a jockey guiding them while they run.

The buffaloes are made to run at a speed that they time close to 12 to 13 seconds while covering a distance of 140 to 160 metres.

The farmers use a whip to nudge the buffalo ahead and try and make them a medal winner.

The kambala season generally starts in November and lasts till March l the following year.

The winning pair of buffaloes were awarded coconuts as part of this centuries-old tradition but these days the race is for a gold medal or a trophy. Kambala races are nowadays conducted day and night under floodlights.

Animal rights activists have opposed the sport saying that tying the noses of the buffaloes with a rope and using a whip amounts to cruelty.

Supreme Court in 2014 had banned kambala and jallikattu based on a petition filed by various animal rights organisations.

Kamabala supporters have been protesting since the ordinance on jallikattu was moved by the Tamil Nadu government lifting the ban.
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The pink yarn is down to the end. Their signs linger on Instagram.

They went their separate ways  but didnt.

For the thousands of Connecticut women who stormed Washington, New York City, the state Capitol in Hartford and Trump Parc in Stamford on Jan. 21, they say the march is only just beginning.

Many of them are trying to harness the momentum of the historic display into concrete action against President Donald Trump and what they term his hostile agenda toward women, immigrants and the environment.

They have channeled it into postcard-writing campaigns, a national popular vote initiative, political litmus tests, recruitment of women candidates and, yes, more protests.

Its not that the event is over and now what do I do? said Coline Jenkins, the great-great-granddaughter of suffragette Elizabeth Cady Stanton. People are seriously committed for their lifetimes to these issues.

The Greenwich resident went to both Trumps inaugural and the Womens March on Washington, donning an ubiquitous pussy hat for both events.

I wore it there because I know Trump had said that hes a star and he can grab p----, Jenkins said. I found it objectionable that he could put his p---- grabbing hands on the Lincoln Bible and take the presidential oath.

There are multiple fronts in the battle for Jenkins, who spends every summer in Seneca Falls, N.Y., celebrating the anniversary of the first womens rights convention.

Yes, the midterm elections are important, but it is also important to get women into the pipeline, said Jenkins, who serves on the Representative Town Meeting.

Nasty women

Lisa Boyne, the lead organizer of the Stamford march that drew 5,000 people and shut down city streets, said dont underestimate the staying power of the protests.

What you saw is a teaser for whats to come, Boyne said. You think the tea party was motivated? The tea party has never met a group of nasty women. Nasty women get s--- done.

The Fairfield resident last week spearheaded a postcard-writing campaign and demonstration outside the Bridgeport office of U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., urging him to block the Cabinet nominees of Trump. On Saturday, Boyne planned to attended a League of Women Voters legislative forum in Fairfield, where she intended to put state lawmakers on the hot seat.

Were going to be challenging these local Republicans to see if they support Trump and his policies, Boyne said. If they are, Im going to be working to have them replaced.

Lindsay Farrell, executive director of the Connecticut Working Families Party, said the marches that took place around the nation and world evolved from Occupy Wall Street, the Black Lives Matter protests after the fatal police shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Mo., and populist appeal of Bernie Sanders. She attended the one in Hartford, which drew 10,000 to the state Capitol.

I dont think that the womens march stands on its own without mattering in the context of these other movements that have been building as well, Farrell said. Whats next?

The liberal minor party has been lending its support to rallies for immigrants rights and legislation to make Connecticut a so-called sanctuary state, which would protect undocumented immigrants from deportation. Last week, Trump signed an executive order threatening to yank federal funding from sanctuary cities and jurisdictions.

Showing activists how they can meet with their legislators is also part of the tack of the Working Families Party, which Farrell said is committed to sustaining the effort.

We could never motivate people as well as this guy, Farrell said of Trump.

Personality politics

Not all women say that the widespread protests helped their cause, however.

It really degenerated into something really ugly, said Frances Pulle, a political science instructor at Naugatuck Valley Community College and Bethel Republican who serves on the towns zoning appeals board. They really alienated a lot of people. People are telling me, They dont speak for me. 

Pulle cited comments by Madonna at the DC march in which the Material Girl said, Yes, I have thought an awful lot about blowing up the White House.

They went about it the wrong way, said Pulle, a Trump voter. What they had, they had numbers. They had a lot of mad people out there.

Stamfords Nina Sherwood, a Bernie Sanders delegate to last summers Democratic National Convention, said the political left needs to avoid personality politics.

I dont think we as a party need to continue to demonize the other side, Sherwood said. What Democrats need to realize is most of the Republicans want the same things that we want.

Sherwood said progressive activists like herself are focusing their efforts on tangible goals, from lobbying state lawmakers to get Connecticut to join a national popular vote compact to championing municipal ordinances banning the disposal of fracking waste.

Trump is the fifth president to win the electoral vote despite losing the popular vote, thanks to victories in the battleground states of Florida, Pennsylvania, Ohio, North Carolina, Michigan and Wisconsin. Each state in the compact would award its electoral votes based on the national popular vote, regardless of individual outcomes.

I think the spotlight is on every single thing that Trump does, said Sherwood, who added that progressives are gearing up for the next governors race in 2018.

Sherwood said there are already many women who are already political engaged, but that they face barriers.

I think we do them a disservice if we wont acknowledge that, Sherwood said of their work. Were hoping to break those (barriers) down.

nvigdor@hearstmediact.com; 203-625-4436; http://twitter.com/gettinviggy
The National Conference has opposed a Jammu and Kashmir Assembly resolution calling for a state holiday on the birthday of the late Maharaja Hari Singh, the father of Dr Karan Singh.

By Ashwini Kumar: Former Union Minister and Congress Rajya Sabha MP Dr Karan Singh lambasted the National Conference leadership for opposing a Jammu and Kashmir Assembly resolution to declare a state holiday on September 23, the birthday of his father Hari Singh, the last Maharaja of the erstwhile princely state of Jammu and Kashmir.

The resolution was passed by the legislative council on January 25 but was opposed by the National Conference in the Assembly. The resolution was moved by his BJP MLC Ajatshatru Singh and was seconded by PDP MLC Vikramaditya Singh, both of whom are the grandsons of Hari Singh and sons of Dr. Karan Singh.

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During a book launch function at the India International Centre in New Delhi today, Dr Karan Singh questioned why a state holiday cannot be declared for Hari Singh, who signed the instrument of accession, when a state holiday has been declared for Sheikh Abdullah, who played a role in Jammu and Kashmir's accession to India.

Also read: MLA Rashid creates ruckus in House over Hari Singh resolution

'SET ASIDE POLITICAL DIFFERENCES'

While appreciating the role played by Sheikh Abdullah, Dr Karan Singh spoke about the visionary reforms brought about by his late father. He went on to emphasise that political differences should be put asides and the sentiments of lakhs of people in Jammu and Kashmir must be respected. Declaring a state holiday on Hari Singh's birthday, Dr Singh added, would be honouring the memory of a man who signed the instrument of accession.

SUPPORT FROM FORMER CJI

Justice TS Thakur has expressed support for the demand that Hari Singh's birthday be celebrated in Jammu and Kashmir as a state holiday. Justice Thakur said that as a member of the judicial system, he particularly appreciated Maharaja Hari Singh in his wisdom, especially the steps he took to institute a board of judicial advisors in the state in order deliver fair justice and ensure rule of law.

Also read: All you need to know about Jammu and Kashmir becoming part of India

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As a startup, chances are, you are strapped for cash. This means you should always be on the lookout for the best deal. Whether it is to provide food for your office or to get to your next meeting, making the most of your money will be crucial to your success.

For employees and CEOs, finding the best deal often lies in the up and coming on-demand economy. What started as a way to hail private cars on Uber, has turned into a growing industry fueled by companies like Wolfie, which enables you to search and receive deals in real time.

Related: The 5 Stages Startups Must Go Through to Make That First $1 Million

Startups should be using startups to survive. As an example, on a recent business trip to Manhattan, I used Wolfie to find a great deal on a local Italian restaurant. What would have been an expensive meeting, turned into a half-off lunch because I utilized this platform.

If youre like most entrepreneurs who are trying to make the most of what they have, utilize these three keys to make your money go farther than ever:

1. Dont use the big guys.

Though it may sound counterintuitive at first, startups are often willing to give other startups a deal on their services. Even without the buying power of bigger companies, startups focus on growth, and therefore use most of their resources towards this metric.

As a example, Via, a new shared-ride hailing service in Manhattan, competes with Uber by paying their drivers more. Uber had a similar launch strategy when it first starting, yet as theyve grown, their wages have decreased. Since Via is new and focuses on growth, theyre able to spend more to pay their drivers in order to expand.

2. Look for pain points.

When a business is lacking customers, they will be more willing to make a deal. As a startup trying to make the most of what you have, look for companies that could use your business. This will not only make the business focus more on your work, but will also probably come at a cheaper cost.

Related: 3 Things Besides Money You Need to Start a Successful Business

Wolfie utilizes this pain point that many businesses face. Every restaurant and bar has off times. When a user sends out a search for a Italian restaurant in an odd hour, businesses can address this pain point by offering a deal to the Wolfie user.

3. Think long-term.

A key to negotiation is going in with a long-term vision. Businesses prefer building lasting relationships, and if you can start a deal with that in mind, chances are youll be getting a discount.

For Baarb, a new platform enabling people to intelligently book travel, this is their exact plan to take on larger travel sites. Their platform focuses on building long-term relationships with customers by building unique travel profiles and custom recommendations through machine learning. The days of generic travel planning will soon be gone!

Related: Your Success Is My Success: How to Build Thriving Client-Vendor Relationships

Though there are aspects of your business that are worth hiring a professional for, there are others that you should actively be looking for deals on. Being a lean startup involves knowing where youre putting your money. Focus on finding ways to make the most of what you have, and growth will follow.

Related:

Legal Tech - Taking Law Into Their Own Hands, For Good

High Five to Entrepreneurship in India

3 Keys to Getting a Better Deal for Your Startup



Copyright 2017 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved
As the mainstream media tries to salvage whats left of its damaged credibility, we will no doubt continue to hear about the epidemic of fake news outlets and the supposed absurdity of alternative facts. But the irony is that mainstream journalists have always been advocating a particular worldview

The mainstream news media has been aglow with mockery towards Trump advisor Kellyanne Conways appeal to what she called alternative facts on a recent Meet the Press interview with Chuck Todd. Joe Scarborough quipped: If I needed alternative facts, Id go to a Ouija Board. Brace for it, parents of America, taunted CNNs John King, alternative facts when you catch your kids doing whatever. And not to be outdone, The New York Times featured the headline: White House Pushes Alternative Facts. Here Are the Real Ones.

Now, regardless of the merits or demerits of Mrs. Conways case, the mocking and jeering among the so-called mainstream media reveals a rather stunning epistemological naivete. Scholars such as Mary Poovey have analyzed the social and historical processes behind the cultural construction of what she calls the modern fact.[1] The modern fact is a relatively new invention, concocted with an eye toward overcoming the fallibility of subjective conjecture, preconception, and bias. This social construction of knowledge was inextricably linked to the emergence of a new conception of republican citizenship. According to Sally Engle Merry, we first begin seeing numerical statistics cited as evidence in Europe during the 1820s and 1830s, and by the mid-nineteenth-century, the French began to see statistical facts as indispensable to the very transparency necessary for a functioning democracy. Facts were perceived as providing the populace with a sense of evaluative contribution to and control over the public square.[2] Even today, numerical indicators contribute to our understanding of everything from tax burdens to stock options, disease to demographics, poverty rates to penitentiary populations.

Unlike the mystical governance that marked premodern societies, facts are believed to reveal a reality considered completely uncontaminated by traditions, biases, and prejudices. Facts dont require the hands of priest and prince, who relied on non-numerical, non-rational information such as divine revelation, ordination, and tradition, thereby limiting decision-making to a cloistered aristocracy. Rather, modern facts are viewed as completely transparent; unlike the subjectivity involved in philosophical and theological speculation, facts are free from the distortions of interpretation and resist the biases of personal predispositions.

In a similar vein, media historian Richard Kaplan observes that in the early twentieth century, journalists turned increasingly toward scientific rationalism and the adoption of modern facts as the key methodology behind their reporting, which sought to analyze events objectively and impartially, irrespective of the preconceptions of the reporter. Prior to such a turn, the reporter was a journalistic advocate; for most of the nineteenth-century, print media was explicitly partisan in its perspectives, and openly sought to persuade an increasingly literate public to particular political positions and policies. However, it became increasingly evident that a vibrant democracy required an objective press. And so, at the turn of the new century, the journalist would no longer serve as a partisan advocate, but rather as an expert collector of informationin short, a purveyor of facts. This is why the journalist is never part of the story he or she is covering, since such an inclusion would violate the perception of objectivity. This perceived absence is a primary way in which journalists establish themselves as mediators of information composed of data and facts.

However, Pooveys research recognizes that what we call facts is hardly objective, but is rather loaded with theoretical assumptions about the nature of reality, the preconditions for knowledge, and how classifications and quantifications relate to that knowledge. Moreover, facts are hardly the bedrock of modern citizenship, as we are finding out with the so-called mainstream media, but rest largely on the emergence of a professionalized priesthood. While the mythology surrounding facts, numbers, and indicators lauds democratic transparency with knowledge opened to all, technocracies actually tend to consolidate power into the hands of the few. The definition of what are considered facts is actually predicated on a process of selectivity, which involves media producers selecting cultural elements from the pool of public culture, transforming them and returning them through some medium, as texts, to public space.[3] The perception of journalistic facticity is thus dependent in many respects on the confidence modern populations place in the expertise of media producers as competent disseminators of information.

This, then, goes a long way to explaining why journalists see themselves as the arbiters of informational validity. They are an elite class of experts who alone possesses the competency for determining what is legitimate news rooted in fact and, in our present context, what is illegitimate news rooted in fallacy.

But as the anthropologist of media and communication, Mark Allen Peterson, notes, what is often overlooked is that such claims to facticity and actuality are rooted in the assumption that there is an objective world out there that can be accurately represented through the naming and categorizing of people and places. In other words, journalists all too often assume that there exists an independent reality external to representational systems. The problem here is that this overlooks the whole question of whose perspective of realitywhose experience of the worldis going to count as the empirical reality against which to evaluate other accounts.[4] Peterson notes that the issue is not so much whether things exist in the external world as it is one of articulation, of constructing accounts of these things. However unbiased ones reporting is, the articulation of experience in words and images always remains a construction. Texts are inevitably made, not given or discovered.[5] He notes further that choices among words such as militants,guerrillas, freedom fighters, rebels, separatists, or in our case Islamic terrorists, or fake news, are not and indeed cannot be a neutral choices; each term has as Peterson notes a different set of associated meanings that become part of the reality constructed by the text. Texts become sites of ideological struggle in which different realities are contested.[6]

And this I believe is what is at the heart of the so-called fake news accusations as well as the mockery surrounding Mrs. Conways appeal to alternative facts; news has itself become a site of ideological struggle in which different perceptions of reality and experiences of the world, such as globalist vs. nationalist, or urban vs. rural, or secular vs. traditionalist, are contested. But the great irony in all of this that cannot be missed is that the journalistic role of advocacy never actually ended! Journalists and journalism have always been and always will be about advocating a particular worldview and cultural construction. For me, what made this election so fascinating is the way in which the so-called alternative media, the supposed site of fake news, was so successful in calling out and exposing this mainstream media advocacy. In slandering Trump and his supporters, mainstream journalists revealed themselves as purveyors of a secularized globalist perspective that masquerades as objective information untainted by the preconceptions of the journalist.

And so, as the so-called mainstream media tries to salvage whats left of its damaged credibility, we will no doubt continue to hear about the social epidemic of fake news outlets and the supposed absurdity of alternative facts, as such foils aim to bolster the utility of modern journalism. But the Chicken Little cackles of press parodies and news counterfeits supposedly so pervasive among the alternative media will matter little; whats done is done. The 2016 election exposed effectually the news media as a site of political contestation, with a mocking media merely underscoring the partisan antipathy. Theres no going back.

And thats a fact.

Books on the topic of this essay may be found in The Imaginative Conservative Bookstore.

Notes:

[1] Mary Poovey, A History of the Modern Fact (Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1998).

[2] S.E. Merry, Measuring the World: Indicators, Human Rights, and Global Governance, in Ruth Buchan, et al (eds.) Law in Transition: Human Rights, Development and Transitional Justice (Oxford: Hart Publishing, 2014), 141-65.

[3] Mark Allen Peterson, Anthropology and Mass Communication: Myth and Media in the New Millennium (New York: Berghahn Books, 2003), 59.

[4] Peterson, Anthropology, 78.

[5] Peterson, Anthropology, 78.

[6] Peterson, Anthropology, 78-9.
By India Today Web Desk: F.I.R actress Kavita Kaushik has just had a low-key wedding with beau Ronnit Biswas in Kedarnath, Uttarakhand. The wedding was an intimate affair with total of 15 guests gracing the occasion, including Kavita's close friend actress Aashka Goradia and her American beau Brent Goble.

Kavita broke up with long-term beau Nawab Shah earlier this year and started dating best friend Ronnit soon after. The fact that he stood by her in the toughest of times, seemed to have made her realise his importance in her life.

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"Ron completed me. He stood next to me while I saw my father's pyre burn and that's where we both locked our hands to never let go. In my earlier relationships, I knew it was perhaps wrong and I was always searching for something else. But now I know that I don't want to grow old with any other man. I've never been more sure," Kavita had said in one of her interviews.

I just pray to keep this safe and together forever ! ????? #dosti #saath #companions #partners #rocks #pillars #shaadi A photo posted by Kavita Kaushik (@ikavitakaushik) on Jan 25, 2017 at 7:14pm PST

Kavita chose Himalayas as her wedding destination because both she and Ronnit are very fond of Shiva. "For me, he is no less than Shiva in my life because he is my saviour. The place where we are getting married is the place where Shiva and Parvati got married, if legends are to be believed. Also, I love the mountains, have trekked a lot and I'm happiest when I'm doing that, so there is no other place for me more suitable than the Himalayas," Kavita had told TOI.

Mehndi done ?? A photo posted by Kavita Kaushik (@ikavitakaushik) on Jan 24, 2017 at 6:06pm PST

And here's her first Instagram post after marriage.

Har har Mahadev ! A photo posted by Kavita Kaushik (@ikavitakaushik) on Jan 27, 2017 at 6:21am PST

Wishing you happy married life, guys!

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A hearty Saturday Salute goes this week to Tamra Jonak of Loup City and her sister, Charlene Kampfe of Arizona, who organized the Peoples March for Equality last Saturday in Loup City.

Jonak said she and her sister would have liked to participate in the womens march in Washington, D.C., that day, but since they couldnt go there, they decided they could walk on their own in Loup City. As people learned of their plans, more and more decided they wanted to join them to the point where about 130 people gathered at the Loup City Community Center and marched around town.

Jonak said she wanted this march to be inclusive, focused generally on equality, rather than specifically on womens issues, so when they gathered there were both women and men, with a wide range of ages.

The march was so successful that she says shes now planning to make it an annual event. It was a way that people were able to gather with a very positive message of equality for all, with minimal expense, and make their voices heard.

Thats worthy of a big salute.

Local program helps people celebrate their recovery

We also salute the Celebrate Recovery program at Third City Christian Church that celebrated its third anniversary Thursday.

Celebrate Recovery is an international Christ-based recovery group that has been operating for 50 years. But the local group was formed in January 2014 and since then it has been helping a large group of people deal with a wide variety of issues, from addictions and eating disorders to grief and general stress.

Sheri Perales, a co-founder of the local chapter, had struggled with a meth addiction for 14 years, but had been clean for eight years when she helped start the program in Grand Island.

The group gathers each Thursday for a lesson or to listen to a speaker and then the members break up into smaller groups, separated by gender and by affliction.

Although many might think the group is only for addicts, it actually provides help for anyone who is struggling, regardless of their issue, as well as celebrating its members progress.

Everybody needs recovery, Connie Smith Hein, a group leader, said. They dont see that sometimes, but we all have some type of hurt or hangup.

The group meets every Thursday at Third City Christian Church, 4100 W. 13th St. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with the large group meeting at 7 and small groups from 7:45 to 8:45.

We salute the people involved in this group and Third City Christian Church for adopting this ministry.
Ibobi made this statement during the political convention cum reception of joining of councillors and active workers of NCP and BJP which was held at Congress Bhavan today.

By Manogya Loiwal : Manipur Chief Minister O Ibobi today said that the BJP is the party which is supported by NSCN-IM in alliance with the NPF which wants to break Manipur.

Ibobi said this during the political convention cum reception of joining of councillors and active workers of NCP and BJP which was held at Congress Bhavan today. National General Secretary and in-charge of Manipur, CP Joshi, General Secretary AICC Manikon Tagore, Co-ordinator AICC Ramlal Jha, Co-ordinator AICC MP Wangchuk, Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam, President MPCC TN Haokip, Parliamentary Secretaries, MLAs and party workers attended the function.

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Addressing the gathering, National General Secretary CP Joshi criticised Modi led NDA government for giving many hardships to the people of the country, particularly the poor and needy people. This government should be mentioned as Modi government instead of NDA government because of his high handedness and stubbornness.

Giving example, Joshi lambasted the Modi government over demonetisation. "The act is being carried out with a hidden agenda," he alleged. He appealed to the people of Manipur to extend support in continuation of Congress Government in Manipur.

Also read: Manipur Assembly polls: CM Okram Ibobi Singh's son to push for digitisation if elected

In his speech, Chief Minister Ibobi said, there is no sanction of Rs 22,000 crore for development of roads in Manipur. "The statement given by the BJP is totally wrong. Besides, only Rs 3 crore out of the proposal for sanctioning of Rs 25 crore for developing of 350 km long road for National Highway under PWD has been sanctioned by the Central government," he said.

"Moreover, frequent visit of ministers for inauguration of small things in the State has hampered the developmental works to be taken up in the state," he added.

--- ENDS ---
The Troy/Edwardsville Shrine Club is partnering with Shriners Hospitals for Children to host an orthopedic screening clinic at Anderson Hospital in Maryville. The free clinic will take place from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., Saturday, March 4.

Children under the age of 18 are eligible to participate.

The screenings will look for indications of scoliosis, club foot, hip problems, shoulder and arm problems, limb-length differences, bowed legs, etc.

Children who are screened will not be diagnosed; however, they will be referred to Shriners Hospitals for Children in St. Louis if they are suspected to have a condition thats treatable. Patients will be accepted pending the childs medical needs.

Edwardsville Police Chief and Shriner Jay Keeven said these screenings go on several times throughout the year by other local Shrine clubs.

Many of the clubs host the screening clinics at different hospitals throughout the area. Theyre just screening to see if a child has a deformity or an ailment, something that the Shriners Hospital staff, the doctors that volunteer their time there can fix. If it is fixable, then its basically just a referral. They do a quick screening, some observation, talk to the parents and the child, and if the doctor feels that the hospital can help, then they get admitted to the hospital or assigned to a caretaker at the hospital, Keeven said.

Keeven has served for five years as a Troy/Edwardsville Shrine Club member and said the program has proven beneficial over the span of his involvement.

Its the first step for a child and parent to determine whether or not the doctors and professional staff at the St. Louis Shriners Hospital can help the child. If they can, no one is turned down based on their ability to pay. So if its a disorder or its something that can be addressed and fixed at the Shriners Hospital, even if you cant afford your treatment, you wouldnt have to pay for that, he said.

Shriners Hospitals for Children consists of 22 hospitals that specialize in pediatric care. Children under the age of 18 are treated as needed despite financial standings.

If youre interested in participating, no appointment is necessary.

Keeven said last years screening had a decent turnout and the club hopes to keep it growing.

Last year was our best turnout ever. We saw 26 children; 18 of them were approved as candidates for the hospital. First of all, 26 children for our small group is a lot and the way we get that is through our media partners who help us get the word out that were doing a screening clinic and sharing our press release. Then on top of that, to have 18, I think for the St. Louis hospital, we have been told in our club that that was the largest number of kids from any screening clinic that has been sent to the Childrens Hospital. We were proud of that last year and obviously we would love to break that record this year, he said.

Going forward, Keeven said he hopes the club can continue to make a difference.

We raise funds to help support the hospital and we enjoy being a good partner with our community  someone who can advocate on the behalf of the children that need help, he said.

For more information about the Troy/Edwardsville Shrine Club, visit www.ainadshriners.org or call 618-874-1870.
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Sat, January 28, 2017 13:35 2107 9b519824cb3263083aedb70a0bd2a332 1 Lifestyle Thailand,#Thailand,mourning,Bhumibol-Adulyadej,Chinese-New-Year,#ChineseNewYear,imlek,#Imlek Free

Thailand's Lunar New Year celebrations on Friday will be quite different from preceding years.

As a sign of mourning for King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who died on Oct. 13 last year, the vibrant red garments, gold adornments and colorful frills that are usually worn to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune may be considered disrespectful throughout the country.

Many are still wearing black, white or grey as a display of grief, despite the fact that the traditional 100-day mourning period ended on Jan. 20.

The transition to wearing clothes with more color has been going quite slowly.

One Bangkok resident, Suvanne Suttilertkun, told Reuters that she would be "wearing a black traditional dress with gold embroidery for Lunar New Year, to respect the fact that the broader public was still mourning the revered King Rama IX (King Bhumibols formal title).

The king stood as the worlds longest-reigning monarch, serving for seven decades on the throne.

(Read also: Thailand issues tourist guidelines for mourning period)

Chinatown shopkeepers have reported a drop in the sale of red clothes and so have shifted to other alternatives in gold, silver and black.

However, other Thais have decided to begin wearing the traditional bright red because the government and public know that it is a special occasion.

Sixty-year-old Tanagrit Leartskritanapa said that most of the people understand this is for Chinese New Year. We have to wear bright auspicious colors to bring luck into our lives.

Thai-American music composer, author and social critic, S.P. Somtow, has predicted that the since the majority of Thai Chinese speak Thai and are well-integrated into society, there will not be any tension during the festival.

As recorded by a 2012 survey from the Institute for Cultural Diplomacy in Berlin, some 9.3 million Thai are ethnic Chinese, accounting for roughly 11 percent of the population.

The mourning for a year is not mandatory and people know that the Chinese New Year is coming. It is a big thing here, Somtow added. (mra/kes)
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Linkedin Lindsey Bahr (Associated Press) Los Angeles, United States  Sat, January 28, 2017

The versatile actor Sir John Hurt, who could move audiences to tears in "The Elephant Man," terrify them in "Alien," and spoof that very same scene in "Spaceballs," has died. He was 77.

Hurt, who battled pancreatic cancer, died Friday in London according to his agent Charles McDonald.

Twice nominated for an Oscar for playing the tortured John Merrick in David Lynch's "The Elephant Man" and for his role as the heroin addict Max in "Midnight Express," Hurt's career spanned over 50 years. After minor television and film appearances, his breakout came in 1966 as Richard Rich in Fred Zinnemann's "A Man For All Seasons," followed by his portrayal of Caligula in the BBC miniseries "I, Claudius" in 1976.

The wiry Hurt brought gravitas to Alan Parker's 1978 film "Midnight Express," for which he received a supporting actor Oscar nomination (he lost to Christopher Walken for "The Deer Hunter") and an uneasy humor to Kane in Ridley Scott's "Alien," immortalized by his disturbing death scene, which Mel Brooks later poked fun at with Hurt's help in "Spaceballs."

"It was terribly sad today to learn of John Hurt's passing," Mel Brooks wrote on Twitter. "He was a truly magnificent talent."

Hurt is unrecognizable in perhaps his most memorable role as the lead in David Lynch's "The Elephant Man." He endured eight hours in the makeup chair daily to transform into John Merrick. The elaborate mask prohibited him from sleeping lying down or even eating while it was on. His would eat his last meal midmorning as the mask was being applied  usually raw eggs mixed in orange juice  and not again until after midnight.

"To be quite honest, the film was misery to make because of the physical problems, so if it's working I'm jumping for joy," Hurt said in a 1980 interview. Hurt did score a lead actor Oscar nomination for the role, but lost out to Robert De Niro's performance in "Raging Bull."

(Read also: Pioneering TV actress Mary Tyler Moore dies at 80)

Hurt was also a prolific voice actor, appearing as Hazel in the animated "Watership Down," and as Aragorn in Ralph Bakshi's "The Lord of the Rings." He also voiced The Horned King in "The Black Cauldron" and provided the narration for "Dogville."

In the "Harry Potter" films, Hurt played the wand-maker Mr. Ollivander. In recent years, he appeared in notable fare such as "Melancholia," ''Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy," ''Only Lovers Left Alive" and "Snowpiercer."

"We're all just passing time, and occupy our chair very briefly," Hurt said in a 2015 interview while undergoing treatments for the early stage cancer.

As prolific as ever, Hurt recently appeared alongside his "V for Vendetta" co-star Natalie Portman in the Oscar-nominated film "Jackie" as a priest who consoles and advises the recently widowed first lady.

Hurt leaves behind a few in production credits, including Joe Wright's "Darkest Hour" which is listed as still filming. Hurt plays Neville Chamberlain in the film about Winston Churchill's charge against Hitler. Gary Oldman plays Churchill.

"I have lots of favorite memories but I can't say that I have a favorite film. I have favorite parts which are not in particularly successful films," Hurt told The Guardian in 2000. "I've worked with people from Fred Zinnemann, John Huston, through to Richard Fleischer, all of those boys from Hollywood and so on and Sam Peckinpah and then the Mike Radfords... I've been incredibly lucky with the directors I've worked with. You don't realize it at the time, it's just in retrospect if you look back you think, 'Jeez, when I saw that CV it nearly frightened the life out of me.' I thought, "That's not bad for an old drunk."
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Linkedin (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Fri, January 27 2017

As protectionism appears to be on the rise led by the United States under the new Donald Trump administration, Indonesia needs to be creative and agile in capturing export markets to benefit from the new circumstances, a state official has said.

"In a recent Cabinet meeting in Bogor it was agreed that we needed to be more export oriented to make use of current global trends," said Thomas Lembong, head of Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM).

In case the US dollar strengthens in the second half of the year under Trump, Indonesian products will be cheaper for the US importers, according to him. "Also as a consequence, the Japanese Yen and Korean Won would weaken so Asian tourists might prefer traveling to Bali than to Hawaii," Tom exemplified.

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Linkedin (The Jakarta Post)  Fri, January 27 2017

President Joko Jokowi Widodo distanced himself from Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak, who urged ASEAN leaders to punish Myanmar for its persistant reluctance, if not refusal, to protect the rights of Rohingya Muslims as citizens of Myanmar.

Indonesia supports the Organization of Islamic Countries (OIC) to help the Rohingya, while at the same time intends to broker peace in the country that just ended decades of isolation under brutal military regimes.

Jokowi seems to understand that the Rohingya issue is more than just a matter of religous conflict. The President knows that any confrontational approach toward Myanmar could backfire and deprive Indonesia of the much needed trust from both the Myanmar government and the Rohingya. Jokowi has taken a diplomatic approach in attempting to help solve the controversy concerning the Rohingya, whereas Najib seems to be using the conflict for his own domestic agenda. Najib spoke harshly about the Rakhine state to distract people in Malaysia from domestic problems rather than expressing sympathy for the oppressed Muslims. Myanmarese leader Aung San Suu Kyi has expressed trust in Indonesia and pointed out that she is open to Indonesias constructive engagement to find amicable solutions for the Rohingya.

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The government had approached the poll panel seeking clearance for the regular radio programme as the model code of conduct is in force in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Goa and Manipur, states that are going for assembly polls between February 4 and March 8.

By Press Trust of India: The Election Commission has given the go-ahead to the next episode of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Mann ki baat' programme, which is to be aired tomorrow.

The government had approached the poll panel seeking clearance for the regular radio programme as the model code of conduct is in force in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Goa and Manipur, states that are going for assembly polls between February 4 and March 8.

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The Election Commission has now cleared the programme, sources said.

Also read | Modi's Mann Ki Baat: Law against benami properties to be implemented soon

The government had been approaching the poll panel for clearance of the radio programme during assembly elections.

This time, the focus of 'Mann ki baat' will be the Class X and XII Board examinations. The exam will commence from March 9, a day after the last vote is cast in the assembly elections.

Also read | Mann Ki Baat: Modi announces lucky draw schemes for digital payments

--- ENDS ---
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Linkedin Rendi A. Witular (The Jakarta Post) Shanghai  Fri, January 27 2017

As Indonesia will face serious challenges from air pollution, much of it stemming from a heavy reliance on coal to generate power plants, state power company PT PLN is looking to China to learn from the best in providing and managing efficient generators but at a low cost.

A Shanghai coal-fired power plant, which is being championed as one of the worlds most efficient, will be a model for PLN to emulate.

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Linkedin Breeanna Tirant (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Fri, January 27 2017

After a blaze gutted the Senen Market building last week, people have swarmed the nearby roadsides on which kiosk owners offered at half price the remaining goods that they could salvage from the fire.

The aftermath of the fire has brought the market onto the streets surrounding the burned and still smouldering building, where vendors tried to earn enough income to recover their losses.

The blaze gained a lot of media coverage, luring consumers to come to the fire sale market.

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Linkedin Bambang Muryanto and Ganug Nugroho Adi (The Jakarta Post) Yogyakarta/Surakarta  Fri, January 27 2017

The Rector of Indonesia Islamic University (UII) Yogyakarta, Harsoyo, has resigned following alleged violence at a freshmen orientation event that claimed the lives of three students and sent 10 others to hospital, saying that he accepted moral responsibility for the incident.

He announced his resignation on Thursday after a meeting with Research and Technology and Higher Education Minister Muhammad Nasir, coordinator of Region V Yogyakarta Private Universities Coordination Body (Kopertis) Bambang Supriyadi and chairman of UIIs Donations Council Luthfi Hasan.

Initially I thought that resigning was a form of evading ones responsibility, but in Japan ministers who commit wrongdoing also resign, Harsoyo told reporters at Kopertis Yogyakarta office.

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Linkedin Moses Ompusunggu (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Sat, January 28, 2017

The second official Jakarta gubernatorial candidate debate on Friday saw two of the candidates -- Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono and Anies Baswedan -- blatantly criticize the stern bureaucratic policies of incumbent rival Basuki "Ahok" Tjahaja Purnama.

Bureaucratic reform was among three topics debated at Bidakara Hotel in South Jakarta.

Agus, who has paired up with former long-time Jakarta bureaucrat Sylviana Murni, said improving the bureaucracy had to be conducted with "heart because [city officials] are human".

The ticket criticized one of Ahok's policies, saying it made it too easy to fire civil servants deemed poor performers by the tough-talking Ahok, who is running for reelection with incumbent Deputy Governor Djarot Saiful Hidayat.

Three Jakarta governor-deputy governor candidate pairs, Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono-Sylviana Murni, Basuki "Ahok" Tjahaja Purnama-Djarot Saiful Hidayat, and Anies Baswedan-Sandiaga Uno stand at the stage during the second official debate at the Bidakara Hotel, South Jakarta, on Friday.(The Jakarta Post/Donny Fernando)

If elected, Agus claims he would not let political interests sway the promotion of high-ranking officials.

"I will adopt what I know when serving in the military, that upholding the merit system is needed to improve the capacity [of people]," Agus said, adding that he would use a performance indicator as a gauge for bureaucratic reform.

(Read also: All candidates improved their performance during debate: Observer)

Meanwhile, Anies, a former education and culture minister, argued that Ahok's approach to paying higher salaries to civil servants to prevent them from committing corruption was "not enough", because the most important thing was "to motivate" them.

Ahok defended himself by saying that many public officials had thanked him for the higher salaries they received.

Defending his running mate, Djarot said, "we are very patient with our civil servants in ensuring they are not corrupt."

"The fired ones were recalcitrant officials," he said. (bbs)
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Linkedin Moses Ompusunggu (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Sat, January 28, 2017

On a rainy Saturday morning in Pasar Manggis in South Jakarta, Jakarta gubernatorial candidate Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono was greeted by the smoke and sulfurous smell of firecrackers and residents who lined up along the sidewalks to shout his name with gusto.

Just hours after the second official debate, Agus engaged in more of his "field guerilla" campaigning.

With recent polls showing a decline in Agus popularity , partly due to his performance in the first official debate, the eldest son of former president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has continued to engage with residents through "eye-to-eye contact" and the "power of a hug and a handshake."

"Support will grow even though I don't talk too much. Shaking their hands and hugging them is the most effective way to make them aware that I am paying attention to their problems," Agus told reporters.

Jakarta gubernatorial candidate Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono appears at a campaign event on Jl. Cipinang Besar Selatan in East Jakarta on Jan. 18. (JP/Callistasia Anggun Wijaya)

Without an umbrella, Agus walked through the labyrinth-like narrow alleyways with residents, mostly female.

"Oh, how handsome he is!" one woman shouted after taking a selfie. "He has charisma and therefore I will probably vote for him," said Siti Nuriyani, 49.

On many occasions, Agus only smiled when people shouted "Hail, Agus!"

(Read also: Jakarta's Persija soccer fans show support for Agus-Sylviana)

More citizens left their houses to greet him and ask for photographs when the rain stopped.

Agus also paid a visit to a wedding held at the residence of Abdullah, a local figure in Pasar Manggis.

"I appreciate his visit. The most important thing is that he is a Muslim. Let Muslim voters decide now that there are two Muslim candidates," Abdullah told The Jakarta Post. (bbs)
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Sat, January 28, 2017

Incumbent Jakarta deputy gubernatorial candidate Djarot Saiful Hidayat revealed on Saturday that he and his running mate Basuki Ahok Tjahaja Purnama planned to establish a task force to prevent vote buying ahead of the Feb. 15 election.

Djarot also said that he hoped women would be in the forefront of efforts to tackle vote buying.

Usually, vote buying targets housewives. Therefore, this task force should involve women, Djarot said on the sidelines of a prayer event organized by Kabah Women and the United Development Party (PPP) in Menteng, Central Jakarta, as quoted by Kompas.com.

He also called on voters to actively tackle vote buying by reporting any information related to the illicit practice around them.

[If you are offered payment for your vote,] just accept the money, take a picture of it then file a report, Djarot said.

He also asked other political parties supporting the ticket to support the plan.

(Read also: Ahok receives Quran from detractor)

In the event, Djarot also emphasized that a governor or deputy governor was not a leader, but more a public servant.

Ahok and I are basically your servants. We are civil servants who basically you can ask to do anything to serve you, Djarot said.

The Ahok-Djarot ticket is supported by the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P), the Golkar Party, the NasDem Party and the Hanura Party.

The PPP has been troubled by prolonged internal rifts caused by a power struggle. The camp of Djan Faridz in the party, which supports Ahok-Djarot, however, was previously not recognized by the government. (bbs)
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Sat, January 28, 2017

Hasto Kristiyanto, the secretary-general of the ruling Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P), has said the former chairman of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), Antasari Azhar, supports incumbent Jakarta Governor Basuki Ahok Tjahaja Purnama and Jakarta Deputy Governor Djarot Saiful Hidayat.

Pak Antasari said he supported Ahok-Djarot based on his conscience. He believes the pair will join us as anti-corruption warriors to support continued corruption eradication efforts, Hasto said as quoted by Antara.

He made the statement following the second official election debate at Bidakara Hotel on Friday, which was also attended by Antasari.

Incumbent Jakarta Governor Basuki 'Ahok' Tjahaja Purnama and Jakarta Deputy Governor Djarot Saiful Hidayat perform at the second official debate at the Bidakara Hotel on Friday. (The Jakarta Post/Donny Fernando)

Antasari, who is also a convicted murderer, however, did not answer clearly when asked about which candidate he would support.

"I'm only observing because its about bureaucratic reform and public service," he said.

These themes were in line with the general focus of the KPK when I served as chairman, the retired prosecutor added.

(Read also: Jokowi welcomes Antasari to State Palace)

Antasari was sentenced to 18 years in prison for the high-profile murder of a businessman in a case that he has always claimed was orchestrated by parties who wanted to see him removed from the anti-graft body.

Antasari was recently granted clemency by President Joko Jokowi Widodo. Jokowi commuted the final six years of his sentence. Antasari also benefitted from more than four years in sentence cuts from the Law and Human Rights Ministry. (bbs)
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Sat, January 28, 2017

Immigration officers at Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali have stopped an Australian from entering the resort island based on an Interpol report alleging that the man, identified only as DNW, is a pedophile.

DNW was searched by Interpol. [There is] an indication that he was involved in a pedophile case in a place somewhere. It could be that he was a fugitive of Interpol or the Australian Federal Police, immigration office spokesman Agung Sampurno told kompas.com on Saturday.

Agung said DNW arrived at the airport on Friday on an AirAsia flight from Perth. He was deported back to Perth on Saturday at about 7 a.m., local time.

(Read also: Australian pedophile gets 15 years' imprisonment in Bali)

He said his office had earlier received notice from Australian authorities on the planned arrival of DNW.

We managed to detect the man shortly after he arrived here and deported him, he added.

According to data from the immigration directorate, as many as 652 foreigners were prevented from entering Bali through the airport last year. (jun)
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Linkedin Agus Maryono (The Jakarta Post) Banjarnegara, Central Java  Sat, January 28, 2017

The candidates running for Banjarnegara regent and deputy regent in Central Java have pledged not to engage in vote buying practices ahead of the regional elections slated for Feb. 15.

The pledges were made before local leaders, commissioners from the Banjarnegara General Elections Commission (KPU) and members of the Banjarnegara Elections Supervisory Committee (Panwaslu).

They have made the pledges and there are punishments for those who violate the pledges in accordance with the Regional Elections Law, KPU Banjarnegara head Gugus Risdiyanto told The Jakarta Post on Friday.

We are grateful that they have committed to not engage in vote buying practices or any other related violations, he added.

Similarly, Panwaslu Banjarnegara head Nurma Ali Ridwan said he appreciated the commitment from the candidates.

Vote buying could lead to the annulment of a candidates ticket, Nurma said.

(Read also: Bekasi's 'Obama' runs for regent)

Nurma admitted, however, that such practices still existed on the ground.

Banjarnegara is one of 35 regencies and cities in Central Java that will hold elections on Feb. 15.

The three candidates running in the Banjarnegara regent race are Budi Sarwono-Syamsudin, Hadi Supeno-Nur Heni Widayanti and Wahyu Kristianto-Saeful Muzad. The regency has 785,794 registered voters who will cast ballots at 1,742 polling stations across 278 villages and subdistricts. (bbs)
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Linkedin Nurul Fitri Ramadhani (The Jakarta Post) Bekasi, West Java  Sat, January 28, 2017

The five candidates competing in the Bekasi regent election in West Java are labeling themselves with unique abbreviations to help voters remember them more easily. The candidates have also creatively utilized the abbreviations to come up with attractive slogans.

Labor activist-turned-regent candidate Obon Tabroni and running his mate Bambang Sumaryono, for example, have come up with the abbreviation "Obama" to mimic former United States president Barack Obama.

"Obama" is an independent ticket that has been permitted to run after collecting support from 143,222 Bekasi residents, mostly workers.

"We came up with the nickname spontaneously. One of us shouted 'just call it Obama', and then we all agreed," Obon's campaign team leader Nono Mitsuba told The Jakarta Post on Friday.

"[Barack] Obama is a good figure. He was the first black president who cared a lot about all of his people without exception. We hope that Obon can be a leader like that," Nono added.

(Read also: Election watchdog partners with 25 universities to combat smear campaigns)

Incumbent candidates Neneng Hasanah Yasin-Eka Supriatmaja, meanwhile, are calling themselves Neneng YES.

The Iin-Farihin and Mahdfudz Al-Hafidz pairing, which is also an independent ticket, are calling themselves IMAM.

Bekasi General Elections Commission (KPU) head Idham Kholik (second left) and Elections Supervisory Agency (Bawaslu) West Java head Herminus Koto (left) accept a candidacy application letter from regent and deputy regent candidates Sa'duddin (center) and Ahmad Dhani (second right) at KPU Bekasi in West Java on Sept. 23, 2016.(Antara Photo/Risky Andrianto)

Another candidate pair has named itself MENARIK (interesting), an abbreviation of the names Meilina Kartika Kadir and running mate Abdul Kholik.

The five candidates are competing for 1,974,831 voters in the regency. (bbs)
By Press Trust of India: New Delhi, Jan 28 (PTI) The family of missing JNU student Najeeb Ahmed today accused Delhi Police of harassing them during a pre-dawn search in their house in Badaun, a charge refuted by the agency saying it was working on a clue to trace him.

"This morning, around 4 AM, four jeeps of Delhi Police accompanied by local police (Baduan in Uttar Pradesh) stormed into the house of Ashraf Qadri, Najeebs maternal uncle. Around 50 police personnel forcefully barged into the house," a family member claimed, adding that on entering the house, the police started clicking photographs and shot videos.

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"They searched every nook and cranny of the house to find Najeeb, and threatened the family members to produce Najeeb if they had hidden him somewhere. They even harassed his grandfather, who is 90 years old," said the family member.

However, Delhi Police strongly refuted the reports of high-handedness.

"Search operations are continuing in all possible places including friends and relatives and notices are being issued in suitable cases. This morning, our team with local (Badaun) police made a proper search. The DCP himself led the team," said Ravindra Yadav, joint commissioner of police (Crime).

Videography was done of the proceedings which will make it clear that the allegations are baseless, he said.

"Najeebs email was accessed by some unknown individuals as per our technical analysis and we swiftly reacted and teams reached Badaun within no time and could traceout the email accessor who turned out to be his own maternal uncle Ashraf Qadri. The teams were sent under the close supervision of DCP and required legal procedures have been followed and necessary legal steps are being taken," he added.

Police said they are following every possible lead and Badaun police was taken along to assure people of the right intentions.

Najeeb has been missing since October 15 after a scuffle at his hostel allegedly with ABVP students on the night of October 14. A reward of Rs 10 lakh has been announced by Delhi Police on any information about Najeeb. PTI SLB KIS

--- ENDS ---
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Linkedin News Desk (Associated Press) NEW YORK  Sat, January 28, 2017

A businessman attacked a Muslim airline employee at Kennedy Airport, kicking her, shouting obscenities at her and saying that President Donald Trump "will get rid of all of you," authorities said.

Robin Rhodes, of Worcester, Massachusetts, had arrived from Aruba and was awaiting a connecting flight to Massachusetts on Wednesday night when he approached Delta employee Rabeeya Khan, who wears a hijab, at the Sky Club in Terminal 2 while she was sitting in the utility office, authorities said.

Khan told police that Rhodes came to the door and went on a profanity-laced tirade, asking her if she was praying, District Attorney Richard A. Brown said. Rhodes then punched the door, which hit the back of Khan's chair, he said. The 60-yeaer-old Khan asked Rhodes what she had done to him and the 57-year-old Rhodes said she'd done nothing, authorities said. He then cursed at her and kicked her in the leg, Khan told police.

When another person tried to calm him down, Rhodes moved away from the door and Khan ran out of the office to the front desk at the club, authorities said. Rhodes followed her, got down on his knees and began to bow down to imitate Muslim prayers and shouted obscenities, investigators said.

Brown said Kahn recalled Rhodes saying: "Trump is here now. He will get rid of all of you. You can ask Germany, Belgium and France about these kinds of people. You see what happens."

At the time of his arrest, Rhodes told officers, "I guess I am going to jail for disorderly conduct," Brown said.

(Read also: FBI: Hate crimes against Muslims up by 67 percent in 2015)

Rhodes appeared in court Thursday night on charges of assault and menacing as hate crimes and is being held on $30,000 bail. He was represented by a public defender for the court hearing, but will have to get his own attorney for subsequent proceedings. His next court date is Feb. 8.

His mother, Dorothy Rhodes, said the behavior alleged by authorities is uncharacteristic of her son.

"It's not like him at all," she said. "He's not a violent person. He's very kind."

Robin Rhodes is the president of Nitrofreeze Cryogenic Solutions, a metals company based in Worcester.

Dorothy Rhodes said her son "goes out of his way to hire people of different races and ethnicities."

Brown said Rhode displayed bigotry and hatred that "have no place in a civilized society  especially in Queens County, the most culturally diverse county in the nation."

Delta didn't return a call seeking comment.
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Linkedin Fachrul Sidiq (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Sat, January 28, 2017

Constitutional Court chief Arief Hidayat has asserted that he will continue to lead the influential court amid pressure from the public, particularly following the arrest of one of its justices over alleged graft.

The court was dealt a huge blow after the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) arrested justice Patrialis Akbar in a sting operation on Wednesday over alleged bribery in connection with a judicial review currently being carried out at the court.



I have consulted with experts and other justices about whether I need to step down. However, they said that I must continue and that nobody should quit because we have not committed any wrongdoing, he told a press briefing at his office on Friday evening.



He added that no matter who the chief was, corruption within the court could still happen because it depended on the integrity and morals of each justice.

(Read also: Court dismisses justice, establishes disciplinary council following bribery case)



Even with external supervision, such things can still happen, he said, responding to a suggestion that the court might need to be supervised by Judicial Commission.



I have frequently asked the KPK to wiretap our phones and I remind my fellow justices in every meeting that we are being watched, he added. (jun)
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Linkedin Mark Stevenson (Associated Press) Mexico City  Sat, January 28, 2017

Mexicans are beginning to debate how to fight back against U.S. President Donald Trump's aggressive stance on trade and immigration.

Prominent political figures have suggested the country expel U.S. law enforcement agents, stop detaining Central American migrants or no longer inspect northbound trucks for drug shipments. Some activist groups on Friday were calling for a boycott of American brands.

Former President Felipe Calderon said Thursday that "we have to design a policy of retaliation" for Trump's proposed plans, which include making Mexico pay for the border wall he wants to build.

"We have to put U.S. security issues under review ... including the presence of (U.S.) agents" on Mexican soil, Calderon told local news media.

The comments came after current President Enrique Pena Nieto scrapped a planned Tuesday meeting with Trump after the American president tweeted that it would be better to cancel if Mexico wasn't willing to pay for his proposed wall.

Ruben Aguilar, a political consultant who was spokesman for former President Vicente Fox, noted Friday that Mexico has been stopping Central American migrants before they reach the U.S. border "as part of the logic between two friendly countries."

He suggested that Mexico could say, "Okay, I'm not going to stop Central Americans anymore," and added, "Now if our two countries aren't friends anymore, that is a card we could play to increase the pressure."

"Drugs are another" possible card, Aguilar said. "If you want to stop them with your wall, well we won't stop them anymore, let them go through."

Trump appeared to try to defuse the spat between the two countries Friday, saying, "Great respect for Mexico, I love the Mexican people."

"We have really, I think, a very good relationship, the president and I, and we had a talk that lasted for about an hour this morning, and we are going to be working on a fair relationship," Trump said.

The office of the Mexican president confirmed the call, calling it "constructive and productive," but did not specifically mention the wall or other policies proposed by Trump it doesn't agree with.

Pena Nieto's government instead stressed "the need for both countries to continue working together to stop the trafficking of drugs and the flow of illegal weapons."

"Both presidents recognized their clear and very public differences on this very sensitive issue, and agreed to solve those differences as part of an integrated discussion of all aspects of the bilateral relationship," Pena Nieto's office said. "The two presidents also agreed, for the moment, to no longer speak publicly about this controversial topic."

On Friday afternoon, Mexican business magnate Carlos Slim called for "national unity" in the face of Trump's hostility, and said the country should have a measured response "without getting angry but without surrendering."

Slim called for a "modern, not protectionist" national program of substituting imported products, the vast majority of which come from the United States.

But he stopped short of calling for a boycott of American goods.

"I think it is an error to think about boycotting companies," Slim said. "What we should do instead is buy what is produced in Mexico."

A coalition of Mexican farm and consumer groups, however, did call for such a boycott when it raised the battle flag on Jan. 18, two days before Trump took office.

The campaign's slogan  "Consumers cry war!"  echoes the first line of Mexico's national anthem as it calls on Mexicans to buy national products.

"The statements and threats from the U.S. president-elect are irrational and unacceptable, but they should awaken a rational response, and lead us to radically change in our model of national development, and recover sovereignty over our food system," the coalition said in a statement.

In a country where U.S. chain restaurants, coffee shops and stores are now ubiquitous, social media users created long strings of hashtags such as #AdiosStarbucks #AdiosCostco, #AdiosWalmart, #AdiosMcDonalds, #AdiosProductosGringos , #ConsumoProductosMexicanos.

Peter Schechter, senior vice president for strategic initiatives at the Atlantic Council, said the dispute may awaken underlying currents of resentment in Mexico. The U.S. took away almost half of Mexico's territory in the 1848 Mexican-American War, though that historic resentment had faded in the last three decades.

"All this does is to solidify the view that an attempt to negotiate with the United States under this administration is impossible, and that we should break from the United States," Schechter said. "This argument has moved from incredulous, to possible in people's minds. The next step is it moves from possible, to the right thing, and that step is not that far."
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Linkedin Margareth S. Aritonang (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Sat, January 28, 2017

Rights group Migrant Care filed a formal complaint on Friday with the House of Representatives ethics council against House Deputy Speaker Fahri Hamzah, over remarks deemed insulting to Indonesian migrant workers (TKI).

Migrant Care director Anis Hidayah said the rights watchdog made the move after receiving numerous protests against Fahri from migrant workers, their relatives as well as campaigners for the rights of TKI, lambasting the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) politician for his insensitivity.

As a public official, he [Fahri] should be careful with his words as well as his behavior because everything that he says and does will impact his work, Anis said.

Referring to TKI as babu, a colonial term, reflected his whole perspective in addressing problems regarding our migrant workers, she added. This explains a bit why we have seen no improvements in the deliberation of the bill on TKI.

Babu is a derogatory term used to refer to a maid. Fahri used the term when complaining about rampant illegal workers in the country on his Twitter account earlier this month, contrasting the problem with struggling Indonesian maids begging for money abroad. As the tweet went viral and stirred up protest from netizens, Fahri removed the post and apologized.

In reporting Fahri to the ethics council, Migrant Care has demanded that the House punish him by firing him from the deputy speaker position and removing him from the Houses team supervising TKI. (dmr)
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Linkedin Suherdjoko (The Jakarta Post) Semarang  Sat, January 28, 2017

Some 30 students from early childhood education centers (PAUD) in Ungaran, Central Java, learned to internalize pluralist values through visiting a temple and other schools ahead of the Chinese New Year celebration.

The students from the Momico and Kucica education centers visited the popular Tay Kak Sie temple in the city of Semarang on Friday to witness prayer rituals and learn about the symbols used during the lunar New Year celebration.

They are learning to understand pluralism from an early age, PAUD Momico headmaster Ertania Johana Maryasmara said.

Every day we teach them, in a language they understand, that Indonesia is a country with plural cultures, human beings and religions. In this moment, we took the children to directly experience New Year celebrations [by visiting] the temple and seeing what angpao looks like, she said, referring to the custom of giving out red envelopes containing money during celebrations.

(Read also: Pork Festival changes name to Imlek Culinary Festival following protests)

Earlier on Friday, they also visited the predominantly ethnic Chinese Sinar Matahari kindergarten in Semarang. They also received angpao from an elderly citizen, Tan Ek Joen, 75, at the Boen Hian Tong building in Semarang's Chinatown.

Tan Ek Joen, 75, gives out red envelopes to children from the Momico and Kucica early childhood education centers in the Boen Hian Tong building in Semarang's Chinatown on Friday .(JP/Suherdjoko)
(front page)

SWP: Victory for Puerto Rico, all working people

Dear Oscar,

The Jan. 17 commutation of your sentence is a victory for the people of Puerto Rico and all those around the world who fought for your freedom. Its a testament to your intransigent resistance, courage and dignity in the face of 35 years of imprisonment by Washington. This victory strengthens working people in Puerto Rico, the U.S. and all those fighting against imperialist domination worldwide. We joined the celebration here in New York when we heard the news and will celebrate with tens of thousands more when you walk out the prison doors.

We hail and will join the 35 Womens protest here in Times Square Jan. 29 and every month until you are free. We must remain vigilant!

The U.S. capitalist justice system acts in the interests of the propertied rulers to maintain their repressive rule and divide and weaken working people. Your victory strengthens the struggle to expose and condemn the dehumanizing conditions millions in prison face, including the torture of solitary confinement you are all too familiar with, overcrowding, restrictions on freedom of speech and voting rights, and denial of needed medical attention.

Your victory strengthens the fight to free Native American leader Leonard Peltier; former Black Panthers Mumia Abu-Jamal in Pennsylvania, Ed Poindexter in Nebraska and Jalil Muntaqim in New York; Oregon ranchers Dwight and Steven Hammond; and other political prisoners.

And it advances the fight against U.S. colonial rule of Puerto Rico at a time when the crisis of capitalism is crashing down with brutal force on the workers and farmers of the island. The U.S. rulers fiscal control board, acting to protect the profits of the bondholders, is imposing wage cuts, attacks on unions and gutting of social spending.

The Socialist Workers Party insists that workers in the U.S. can never be free as long as our Puerto Rican brothers and sisters are held in colonial bondage.

United States imperialism, exploiting the masses within its national boundaries, at the same time and to an even greater degree, exploits the peoples of Latin and Central America, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, Liberia, the Philippines, the SWP declared at its founding convention in 1938. These peoples are thus the potential allies of the American workers in the struggle against U.S. imperialism, and neither they nor the American workers can expect to win freedom except in joint combat against the common enemy.

The Socialist Workers Party stands for the immediate and unconditional independence of all the territories, colonies, and dependencies of the U.S. and for the withdrawal of all troops from them.

But independence will never be granted, it must be taken!

As you have said, For those of us who love justice and freedom, want a better and more just world free of colonialism and imperialism, revolutionary Cuba has been and will continue to be a beacon of hope and an example to emulate. Under the leadership of Fidel Castro, Cubas workers and farmers have shown that, yes, it is possible to make and defend for over 50 years a socialist revolution under the nose of Yankee imperialism.

The Cuban people and their leadership worked continually to advance the international solidarity movement that helped win your freedom.

We will continue to tell the truth about the Cuban Revolution and the fight against Washingtons colonial domination of Puerto Rico. We are confident that here, in the belly of the imperialist monster, working people can unite to end forever the dictatorship of capital and extend the hand of solidarity to the peoples of the world.
(front page)

Syrian toilers face disaster as area rulers seek leverage

Two days of talks seeking a political settlement that would defend the sponsoring capitalist regimes interests ended Jan. 24 without any agreement between the Syrian regime of Bashar al-Assad and opponents of his dictatorial rule. The sponsoring governments of Russia, Turkey and Iran announced they would set up a joint system for monitoring the shaky cease-fire that has been in effect since Dec. 30, with details to be worked out later.

The talks took place in Astana, Kazakhstan, with United Nations envoy Staffan de Mistura serving as mediator. The Donald Trump administration decided not to send a delegation from Washington; the U.S. ambassador to Kazakhstan attended as an observer.

This new cooperation between Moscow and Tehran (both have backed Assad) and Ankara (which has supported opponents of the regime) reflects shifts in the region as governments maneuver to defend their conflicting economic, political and military interests. Recep Tayyip Erdogans regime in Turkey has dropped demands that Assad step down. Moscow in turn has substantially reduced relations with Democratic Union Party (PYD), the dominant Syrian Kurdish party, and its armed Peoples Protection Units (YPG).

After the conference broke up, the two Syrian delegations  one from the regime and the other of opposition fighters  held competing press conferences.

We dont accept any role for Iran in the future of Syria, said Mohammad Alloush, head of the opposition group, demanding that all Iranian-backed foreign militias leave Syria.

Assads envoy Bashar Jaafari said it was pitiful that the opposition criticized one of the conferences three sponsors.

It remains to be seen what course Trumps stewardship of U.S. imperialism will take in Syria. White House press secretary Sean Spicer said Jan. 23 Trump would like to work with Moscow wherever possible, including in combating Islamic State there.

Moscow and Ankara brokered the truce following the defeat of rebels in the city of Aleppo by Iranian soldiers and allied Shiite militias along with troops loyal to Assad, backed by Russian airstrikes. The cease-fire does not include the jihadist Islamic State, nor Jabhat Fateh al-Sham, formerly the al-Qaeda-linked Nusra Front. And it does not include the Kurds.

As soon as the fighting eased there were renewed street protests against Assads rule. Al Jazeera broadcast video of hundreds rallying in Douma, Idlib, Daraa and elsewhere the day after the cease-fire took effect.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported Jan. 20 that hundreds of people demonstrated in suburbs east of Damascus to oppose the ongoing government siege of Wadi Barada, a valley northwest of Damascus that is the source of water for the capital. They also called for a ceasefire in the entire Syrian territory and the release of detainees held by the regime, the Observatory reported.

In an effort to expand their long-term presence in the Mideast, Russian officials signed an agreement with Damascus Jan. 20 to double the space for Russian warships at the Syrian port of Tartus and extend their access to an air base near Latakia.

The conquest of Aleppo put pro-government forces in control of most of Syrias western cities and coast. But Assad lacks the ground forces to control this territory without substantial backing from Tehran and Shiite militias such as the Lebanese Hezbollah.

As a result, Iranian capitals influence in Syria has grown. In mid-January, Iranian officials signed contracts with Damascus, gaining control over Syrias largest phosphate mine and receiving a license to operate a mobile telecommunications network.

Working people in Syria face continuing catastrophe  with hundreds of thousands killed by the regime and its allies and Islamic State and millions driven from their homes.

Attacks on the Kurds

Both U.S. and Russian warplanes have been bombing near al-Bab, in support of a Turkish-organized offensive against Islamic State. Ankaras central aim is to block the Syrian Kurds from taking that city and connecting territories they control on Turkeys border.

The Kurds are the largest oppressed nationality in the world without their own homeland.

Ankara has organized a 450-person Free Police, including special forces, to patrol in Jarablus, conquered by Turkish-led Syrian forces in 2016, driving the Kurdish YPG from the area. A video of the cops on the internet shows recruits chanting in Arabic, Long live Turkey, long live Erdogan.

Ankara is currently engaged in a bloody campaign to put down opposition by the Stalinist Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) inside Turkey. The Erdogan government claims the YPG in Syria is just a different name for the PKK.

At the same time, Washington has been working with forces led by the YPG to attack Islamic States capital in Raqqa, Syria, and with the Kurdish peshmerga in Iraq in a drive to retake Mosul from the jihadists  putting the U.S. rulers at odds with Ankara.





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(front page)

Trump moves into White House, faces liberal outcry

Republican billionaire President Donald Trump provoked an uproar among liberals Jan. 20 when he described the bleak conditions millions of workers face in his inaugural speech. On the steps of the U.S. Capitol he declared, This American carnage stops right here and stops right now.

These critics called Trumps address dark and divisive, exposing the fact that they live in a different world from working people and dont experience the crisis workers and farmers face under todays grinding depression conditions. They cant understand that Trump won the presidency by acknowledging the economic and social devastation workers face and promising to deal with it, something neither he nor any capitalist politician can accomplish.

The US ruling families and their rivals in Europe and the Pacific engage in ceaseless efforts to maximize their own profits the world over, wrote Socialist Workers Party leader Steve Clark in the introduction to The Clintons Anti-Working-Class Record: Why Washington Fears Working People by SWP National Secretary Jack Barnes. Growing carnage and the dispossession of millions of human beings is the result.

Workers anger at the impact of the deepening capitalist crisis of jobs, production, trade and finance became the central question in the 2016 election, leading to irreparable political instability in both capitalist parties.

After his victory, the Republican Party is being rebuilt around Trump. The Democrats face a deeper crisis. Many, including former presidential candidate Bernie Sanders and most of the left, demand a revolution in the party, looking to take it over and install a more progressive capitalist reform program.

The old guard of the Democratic party has to go, left-wing filmmaker and Sanders supporter Michael Moore told a rally the night of the inauguration. They are supported by corporate America. We need new leadership, new blood and young people. Moore predicted Trumps victory after the Republican National Convention last summer.

These forces, along with the editors of the New York Times, Washington Post, CNN and other liberal media, along with the bulk of the federal bureaucracy, and the millions of professionals, academics, and others that make up the cosmopolitan meritocracy, are waging political war against the new president.

Trump takes office

In his first few days in office Trump issued a series of executive orders rescinding steps taken by former President Barack Obama and pushed a number of his cabinet nominees through. He met with a delegation of CEOs of auto, computer, steel, aerospace and other industrial giants, pressing them to put more investment into plant and production inside U.S. borders, while assuring them his administration would take steps to remove regulatory restrictions on the bosses to bolster their profits.

He also convened a meeting with half a dozen construction union officials, who agree with Trump on advancing certain infrastructure projects, including construction of the Keystone and Dakota Access oil pipelines. The latter has been fought by the Standing Rock Sioux tribe in North Dakota, backed by thousands of Native Americans and others, seeking to defend the tribes water sources and sacred burial sites.

In another executive order, Trump signaled intent to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, calling on government agencies to minimize the acts unwarranted economic and regulatory burdens, like the penalty for those who cant prove they are unable to pay.

The Senate overwhelmingly approved nominations of former Marine generals James Mattis as Secretary of Defense and John Kelly as Secretary of Homeland Security. Mattis announced plans for an Asian trip with stops in Japan and South Korea. Trump has sharpened the stance toward the capitalist rulers in China over trade and other matters.

Trump signed a memorandum withdrawing the U.S. from the 5,500-page Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal. What the rulers call trade pacts or free trade are in fact massive sets of agreements between rival imperialist powers dividing up arenas for investment, trade and exploitation of wage labor, with the strongest calling the shots.

Trump contacted the heads of state of Mexico and Canada and said he wants to renegotiate the North American Free Trade Agreement.

AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka, a champion of the labor officialdoms class-collaborationist policies, praised the presidents America First moves on trade as good for workers, calling them just the first in a series of necessary policy changes required to build a fair and just global economy.

Trump campaigned promising to negotiate bilateral agreements good for all Americans. But the U.S. is divided into two sharply conflicting classes, and whether the rulers choose free trade or protectionism to defend their profits, workers go to the wall.

While the Trump administrations moves on trade and infrastructure may aid todays anemic uptick in the business cycle, no policy of any wing of the capitalist rulers can turn around the long-term contraction of production and trade. The workings of the capitalist system, exacerbated by the political turmoil and ongoing wars that mark todays world, ensure that another sharp downturn like the 1987 stock market crash or the 2008 real estate bubble collapse looms on the horizon.





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(front page)

Fidel Castro, Cubas revolution celebrated at Washington forum

Le Canal Nabo News

WASHINGTON  Some 200 people gathered here Jan. 7 for a meeting to pay tribute to the historic leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro Ruz, who died Nov. 25. Titled Cuba, Africa and the World: A Tribute to Fidel Castro, speakers discussed Castros decisive political leadership at all the crucial turning points in the Cuban Revolution and his unbroken proletarian internationalism.

Thank you for talking about Fidels life with happiness, and without a sentiment of loss, said Jose Ramon Cabanas, Cuban ambassador to the United States. Many U.S. workers respect Fidel.

Fidels enemies have been wondering about the post-Castro Cuba for years, Cabanas said. Describing how Cuban workers and youth, in their millions, reaffirmed their commitment to Cubas socialist revolution and its values, he continued, They know they have something to contribute  that is how Fidel educated us. For many years, he told us, if at some point you are isolated, anywhere in the world, you will be your own comandante. You will know what to do, and how to do it. You will also know that our revolution will never forget you. Fidel said the Cuban Five would return, and we won their freedom.

Miguel Fraga, first secretary of the Cuban Embassy, accompanied Cabanas and was introduced at the meeting.

Other speakers included Gnaka Lagoke, founder of Revival of Panafricanism Forum, who chaired; Jose Pertierra, a Cuban-American attorney who represented Juan Miguel Gonzalez, father of Elian Gonzalez; Dr. Piero Gleijeses, professor at John Hopkins University and author of Conflicting Missions: Havana, Washington, and Africa, 1959-1976; Mary-Alice Waters, a leader of the Socialist Workers Party and president of Pathfinder Press; Heather Benno, ANSWER Coalition and Party of Socialism and Liberation; Jennifer Bryant, an organizer for the Venceremos Brigade; and Netfa Freeman, International Committee for Peace, Justice and Dignity, Pan African Community Action, and Institute for Policy Studies. Carlos Ron, consul at the Venezuelan Embassy, gave greetings.

In the years to come, we will need more meetings about the Cuban Revolution in more countries, especially in Africa, said Lagoke, who has organized annual meetings to discuss Africa and the Cuban Revolution.

People came from the Washington, D.C., area, Philadelphia, New York, and as far away as Chicago.

The internationalist solidarity that binds revolutionary Cuba and Africa was a central theme of the meeting. Fidel is our link to Africa. For us in Cuba, Africa is not something else, we are Africans,  Cabanas said to applause.

Fidel was a Pan Africanist of the highest order and Cubas solidarity and footprint in the Pan African movement goes all the way back to the 60s, said Netfa Freeman. During Algerias war for independence against French colonialism, the revolutionary leadership in Cuba sent ships to take weapons to the Algerian National Liberation Front and bring war orphans and wounded children to the island for treatment and education, just two years after their own revolutionary victory, he said.

Jose Pertierra recounted how during a Christmas day lunch at Fidels home in 2010, Fidel got on the phone with volunteer Cuban doctors combatting a cholera epidemic in Haiti. He talked to them like a general who was moving troops from one place to another giving them courage and enthusiasm, he said.

A number of speakers described the decisive role of some 425,000 Cuban internationalists battling alongside Angolan and Namibian forces in a hard-fought war for freedom against South African apartheid invaders and their backers in Washington. The struggle began in 1975 as Angola won independence from Portugal and lasted for sixteen years.

Cubas example was unprecedented. They were not guided by narrow self-interest, but by Castros sense of revolutionary mission. His internationalism trumped everything else, Piero Gleijeses said. Fidel called the fight to defeat apartheid the most beautiful cause of humanity.

In face of growing U.S. military threats in the 1980s, Cuba refused to pull back or withdraw from Angola, he said, even when it meant rejecting the course of the leaders of the Soviet Union, who were focused on achieving detente with Washington. When President Jimmy Carter offered to re-establish relations with Cuba if Cuba would withdraw from Angola, Cuba said no, Gleijeses said. The wave of the Cuban victory in Angola washed over the region.

Fidel belongs to Cuba, the world

Fidel belongs first and foremost to the men and women of Cuba. But he also belongs to the working people of the world, SWP leader Mary-Alice Waters said. He demonstrated in action what proletarian internationalism means, and how and why it is inseparable from the socialist revolution in Cuba and the strengthening of that revolution.

It was Fidels historical understanding that the struggle in southern Africa would last until apartheid was defeated, and only its defeat would guarantee the sovereignty and independence of Angola, Waters explained. Fidel was one of the great military commanders of the toilers of the world. He understood that military leadership of the working class in revolutionary struggle begins with political leadership. That above all is decisive, said Waters.

There were two great socialist revolutions of the 20th century  the Russian and the Cuban, Waters said. Neither was the product of any one individual  they grew out of the conditions created by capitalism itself. But without the presence and political leadership of Lenin and Fidel, in those revolutions at decisive moments and turning points, the odds that either one of them would have triumphed are small.

There are times when the role of an individual in history is decisive. Fidels ability to lead the other leaders at key turning points was crucial, she said. Without Lenin and Fidel, the history of the 20th century and 21st century would be hard to imagine. Its why those two giants tower above all others and why we think of them together. They knew that only by eradicating capitalist relations could a new order be built.

Two different courses were presented at the meeting on how to defend revolutionary Cuba today. Some speakers argued that stopping new U.S. President Donald Trump is paramount.

The Trump agenda is to smash labor unions, abolish environmental regulations, carry out mass deportations and unleash massive attacks on womens rights, Heather Benno argued. His goal is to return the United States to the most unrestrained form of capitalist rule  with no protections for oppressed sectors, she said. Protesting Trump is the heart and soul of El Comandantes legacy.

She urged participants to join in a Jan. 20 protest organized by the ANSWER Coalition seeking to disrupt Trumps inauguration.

Were not only protesting Trump, were protesting the system that allowed Trump to be elected to head the largest imperialist war-mongering country in the world, Jennifer Bryant said.

Our responsibility here is to keep our fire on the U.S. government, Waters countered, in response to a question during the discussion that ensued. Whether the president is Trump or Clinton or Obama or another capitalist politician, the propertied families who dictate Washingtons foreign policy have worked consistently for decades to destroy the revolution, regardless of tactical shifts or which capitalist party held the presidency. We need to build a movement to demand that the U.S. return Guantanamo now, right now, end their economic embargo and end their subversive regime change programs.

The U.S. rulers fear the example of Cubas socialist revolution, and for the first time in decades they have begun to fear the U.S. working class, she said. Workers here have the same capacities to transform ourselves and were capable of taking power and transforming society.

During the far-reaching hourlong discussion, speaker after speaker pointed to examples of Cubas internationalism, from aid to Venezuela in its efforts to resist Washingtons attacks to its response to the 2014 Ebola epidemic in West Africa. The back and forth continued informally over a delicious West African dinner.

Participants picked up 13 copies of Cuba and Angola: The War for Freedom, Pathfinders newly released firsthand account of the Cuban internationalist mission in Angola, by Harry Villegas, a brigadier general of Cubas Revolutionary Armed Forces (FAR) who served as Fidel Castros direct liaison to Cuban forces there.

The whole meeting was eye-opening and inspiring, including the books, Bryan Carrigan, a warehouse worker and Teamster, told the Militant. I didnt know Cuba had helped in Africa, like in Angola, and stayed for the long haul.





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(editorial)

Step up fight to free Leonard Peltier!

Barack Obama exposed the true face of liberal democracy by refusing to release Leonard Peltier, a Native American activist framed up on charges of killing two FBI agents during a shootout on the Pine Ridge Sioux Reservation in South Dakota in 1975. Obama denied his request for clemency on Jan. 18, just two days before his term expired.

Peltier, who has serious health problems, has been in jail more than 40 years, six of them in solitary confinement.

The frame-up was so blatant that even James Reynolds, one of the lead prosecutors who helped send Peltier to prison, has called for his release. The trial was unusually troublesome Reynolds now says. It was a very thin case that likely would not be upheld by courts today.

Peltier and other members of the American Indian Movement were at Pine Ridge to protect residents from a reign of terror, including beatings and murders, instituted by then tribal chief Dick Wilson. Reynolds admits that the FBI played a role in the creation of dangerous conditions on Pine Ridge.

Among those calling for Peltiers release are the National Congress of American Indians, the Oglala Sioux Tribe, the World Council of Churches, the European Parliament, Amnesty International and Pope Francis. The fight was given a boost by the mobilizations of Native Americans and others at Standing Rock that blocked the passage of the Dakota Access Pipeline across sacred land and a river near the reservation. More people than ever are learning about the case.

When the sentence of Puerto Rican independence fighter Oscar Lopez was commuted Jan. 17 it showed that it is possible to fight and win. But victory never comes easy.

The freeing of Lopez was not a gift from Obama, it was the result of a decades-long fight that actively involved tens of thousands of people around the world and won the support of hundreds of thousands more, especially among working people on the island and in the diaspora, an important component of the U.S. working class.

The Socialist Workers Party and its candidates are joining with others to build on this victory, to demand the Donald Trump administration free Peltier and others who are in prison on frame-up charges and disproportionately long sentences because of their political beliefs. We can take the fight to free Leonard to unions, churches and other organizations under the labor banner of An injury to one is an injury to all.

Keep up the fight! Free Leonard Peltier now!

Lopez: Step up fight to end colonial rule in Puerto Rico
By Press Trust of India: Islamabad, Jan 28 (PTI) Three weeks after he went missing, a Pakistani professor and prominent human rights activist has returned home, police said today.

Salman Haider, a professor at the Fatima Jinnah University and human rights activist, returned home late last night, Geo News reported quoting police officers.

He had gone missing on January 6 when he was in the Bani Gala area with his friends and called his wife to tell her that he would return home by 8 PM.

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When Salman - who was critical of the fundamentalists in the sensitive Muslim-majority nation - did not return by 10 PM, his wife called him but his phone went unanswered, his brother Zeeshan Haider said.

His wife later received a text message from Salmans phone that asked her to pick his car from Coral Chowk, Zeeshan said.

Police had found the professors car from Coral Chowk but no information about him.

A missing persons report for Salman was filed in Lohi Bher police station and an investigation was launched.

He was among four activists, others identified as Waqas Goraya, Asim Saeed and Ahmed Raza Naseer, who had gone missing this month. They had been accused of promoting blasphemy, a criminal offense in Pakistan.

A United Nations human rights expert on January 12 called on the Pakistani authorities to make it a top priority to locate and protect four disappeared human rights and social media campaigners, saying no government should tolerate attacks on its citizens. PTI CPS AKJ CPS

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(feature article)

Socialist Workers Party convention sets course to build revolutionary party workers need today

NEW YORK  The Socialist Workers Party held its 48th Constitutional Convention here Jan. 14-16, setting a course to advance carrying out propaganda activity in the working class at workers doorsteps, on strike picket lines and in other labor fights and social protests. Through this work, the party seeks to broaden its geographical reach, the number of workers and youth the party is working with and to win new members.

In addition to delegations from party branches, convention delegates included members who have moved to Denver, northern New Jersey and the area around Albany, New York, to extend party-building work in those areas. Along with branches of the SWP across the U.S. and of the Communist League in Canada, they will be joining other workers to run candidates backed by the party for mayor and other offices this year. (See list here.)

For years workers have faced slow-burning depression conditions as the capitalists profit rates have continued their decadeslong decline, Jack Barnes, SWP national secretary, said in the opening political report. As prospects have shrunk for profitable investment in the expansion of factory buildings, mines, equipment, and jobs, the employers have sat on growing hoards of cash or plowed it into stocks, bonds and other forms of speculative financial paper. At an accelerated pace, this has increased the relative weight of money capital at the expense of manufacturing capital.

In 2008 a deep global financial crisis and contraction of production and trade shook capitalism on a world scale. The employers and their government continue to load the devastating consequences of that crisis  the carnage referred to by the newly elected U.S. president at his inauguration a few days after the SWP convention  onto the backs of working people.

This crisis for the working class became the central factor in the 2016 presidential campaign. The SWP said there were two classes and three parties  the capitalists had their Democrats and Republicans, Barnes said, and working people had the Socialist Workers Party.

And the capitalist rulers increasingly displayed fear of the working class, seeing a future of deeper class struggle to come as the carnage continues and spreads.

Hillary Clinton revealed her anti-working-class contempt when she called millions of workers deplorables because many of them backed Donald Trump in hopes he would address the worsening economic and social conditions they face  a decline in the size of the working class as jobs disappear, falling real wages, cop brutality, attacks on womens right to choose abortion, multiple deployments for workers in uniform sent to fight and die in Washingtons wars in Afghanistan, Iraq, and more. While Trump claimed he spoke for working people, he demagogically targeted Mexicans, Muslims, women, unionists and others, aiming to divide and weaken the working class and our unions.

The only way forward for workers and working farmers, Barnes said, is to recognize ourselves as the political vanguard of the deplorables  to see the need and capacity of the working class and our allies to put an end to the rule of capital, of the small handful of superrich families that hold state power in the U.S. and control both the Democratic and Republican parties.

Thats the reason to join the Socialist Workers Party. The SWP is the only party armed with a communist course of carrying out regular propaganda activity in the working class and joining in fights by workers and the oppressed, as the party politically prepares for the bigger class battles and revolutionary struggles we know are coming.

For years SWP members have found growing interest as they knock on doors in working-class neighborhoods to discuss the party and its activities. Although there are no sustained labor battles or social movements like the civil rights battle that overthrew Jim Crow segregation, many workers respond when party members explain the need for the working class to chart a course to build our own political party to take power.

Convention delegates discussed and adopted the next decisive steps to sustain, as the axis of party activity, turning that interest among working people into expanded influence and recruitment.

The party leadership has worked with a number of members to move to new areas where the SWP has made contacts, Barnes explained. Together with adjustments in organization and priorities in party branches to enable members to step up political campaigning and use of the Militant and books and magazines on communist politics among workers, these moves can lead to a convergence of political activity in the branches, in new areas  and by new party members.

In addition, Barnes told convention participants, there are new openings today for party members to conduct political activity in the unions. This is particularly true among rail freight workers, where dangerous conditions  from the one-person operating crew on a growing number of freight trains, to long and erratic work schedules, to moving trains in crowded rail yards with remote-control units  have led to widespread discussion and protests. This is part of the fight against the bosses speedup, job combinations, and assaults on safety among all workers.

Running candidates for public office is important to party-building today, Barnes said. Most workers continue to see politics through the framework of the elections. Communist campaigns have already been launched across the U.S. and Canada, running for mayor in Calgary, Alberta; Los Angeles; Miami; Minneapolis; Montreal; New York; and Seattle.

To be effective in this work, Barnes said, requires increasing attention to political education. Class conscious workers need to dig into lessons from the founding of the modern revolutionary workers movement in the mid-1800s; to the Bolshevik revolution under the leadership of V.I. Lenin (this year is its 100th anniversary); of the Cuban Revolution, the living socialist revolution to our south; to experiences of the SWP in trying to build that kind of party here in the U.S. together with communist workers the world over.

Crisis of U.S. two-party system

The victory of Trump in the U.S. presidential election reflects the deepening economic and political crisis of U.S. imperialism  and a resulting historic shake-up in its two long-standing bourgeois political parties.

The Republicans are being remade by Donald Trump, a multibillionaire pretending to speak in the interests of working people while seeking to find policies that further enrich the capitalist class, in a futile attempt to end the inevitable crisis of their system. This has nothing to do with hysteria about fascism among liberal and middle-class radicals, Barnes said. In fact, the Trump electoral victory is weakening already marginal ultrarightist currents, who are unable to gain any traction in U.S. politics.

The Democrats are in disarray. Bernie Sanders and bourgeois and petty-bourgeois leftists of every stripe on one side, and machine politicians like New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo on the other, are already maneuvering to take over the party in hopes of making a comeback in the 2018 and 2020 elections.

Similar capitalist-crisis-fueled political breakups are unfolding in the United Kingdom, France and other imperialist countries in Europe and beyond.

Since 1990 the Socialist Workers Party has explained the global reverberations of the fact that U.S. imperialism lost the Cold War.

As a byproduct of the implosion of the Soviet Union and other Stalinist regimes in Eastern and Central Europe by the opening of the 1990s, there was a rapid disintegration of the counterrevolutionary obstacle of governments and parties that falsely called themselves Communist and for decades had politically misled and undercut working-class and popular struggles around the globe. As a result, while the working class worldwide today has no mass independent class leadership, it faces coming class battles unbroken and free of Stalinist disorientation, something that wasnt true for decades. Washington hadnt won the Cold War.

The U.S. rulers acted on an opposite assumption. They were convinced they had triumphed and had a free hand worldwide. They intervened in Iraq, Yugoslavia, Afghanistan, Libya and elsewhere  with disastrous results for toilers in those regions and seemingly endless military involvement for Washington.

Another side of these developments is now becoming clearer, Barnes said. The U.S.-dominated NATO military alliance has been weakened. The illusion is coming apart that an ever closer economic and political European Union could transcend the nation states within it  most of them imperialist powers, but at very different levels of economic might and social conditions  and become a united capitalist Europe.

Sharpening competition among rival ruling classes under the pressure of the international slowdown in capitalist production and trade is undoing what many bourgeois politicians refer to as globalization, including so-called trade pacts in Europe, North America, and the Pacific and Asia. These classless terms are cover for the profit-driven efforts of finance capital to compete to exploit workers and farmers and suck the wealth they produce with their labor from every corner of the globe.

Delegates at the SWP convention seated international fraternal delegations, including from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, France and the U.K. They shared experiences that underscored that the party-building openings discussed at the convention are worldwide.

Books to prepare us to fight and win

is one of three books published by Pathfinder Press in 2016 to help working people address the far-reaching political questions that we and others in the working class need answers to in order to fight more effectively and win, Steve Clark said in the introduction to the. The other titles are:, also by Jack Barnes, andby SWP leader Mary-Alice Waters.

In addition to English, Spanish and French, these books, and others from Pathfinder Press arsenal, are right now being translated in Iran into the Farsi language, Clark wrote. They will be distributed widely in bookshops and libraries there and well beyond Irans borders. Their broad circulation demonstrates how the scope and explosiveness of the capitalist crisis, and the response of working people to its consequences, are truly worldwide.

In a report to the convention, Clark expanded on these points. These books and more than 40 other Farsi-language Pathfinder titles are finding a growing readership across Iran and beyond, including in Afghanistan and the Kurdish region of Iraq.

Workers and farmers in the Middle East face the effects of the world capitalist economic crisis, compounded by the impact of a devastating civil war in Syria, more than a decade of bloody wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, and the advancing Kurdish struggle for national rights, Clark said. This has sparked interest in books that present the program and history of the Socialist Workers Party, as well as the Russian and Cuban revolutions.

Convention delegates also discussed the importance of the fight against Jew-hatred. History shows that assaults on Jews increase in times of capitalist crisis, as the rulers seek scapegoats to divert the middle classes and layers of toilers from recognizing the true source of their worsening conditions, the profit system. Clark reviewed the decadeslong continuity of the SWP on this question, and that of Fidel Castro and the leadership of Cubas socialist revolution, from the impact of the rise of Nazism, the horror of the Holocaust during the second imperialist world war, to growing attacks on Jews and Muslims today as capitalisms devastation extends to more and more of the world.

Revolutionaries must push for recognition of the right of Israel to exist, Clark said, including the right of return for Jews looking for refuge from persecution, as well as for recognition of a state for the dispossessed Palestinian people. This is the only way to open the space for working people who are Arab and Jewish to build solidarity and fight together against capitalist exploitation and imperialist oppression throughout the region.



Two great socialist revolutions

Convention delegates also discussed a Nov. 27 letter from SWP National Secretary Jack Barnes to Raul Castro, first secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba, marking the political legacy of Fidel Castro, on the occasion of his death Nov. 25 ( see Dec. 12, 2016, Militant ). The message highlighted the two great socialist revolutions of the 20th century, in Russia and Cuba, and the indispensable leadership of them by V.I. Lenin and Fidel Castro.

Barnes wrote that the SWP will continue to publish and spread the truth about the Cuban Revolution and Fidels leadership, to make it known to working people in the United States and throughout the world. With unshakable confidence in the working class and its allies, we will continue to organize and act on the course Fidel uncompromisingly presented to the world in 1961, a month before the victorious battle of Playa Giron: There will be a victorious revolution in the United States before a victorious counterrevolution in Cuba.

Mary-Alice Waters spoke to this in her convention report on Party-Building and the Cuban Revolution. The working-class mobilizations in tribute to Fidel Castro across Cuba following his death, and Raul Castros speeches in Havana and Santiago, demonstrates once again that the socialist revolution in Cuba lives and fights to this day. The Socialist Workers Party defends that revolution and champions the fight to end the U.S. embargo, to get Washington out of Guantanamo and return it to Cuban sovereignty, and to end Washingtons regime-change policies.

One of the partys priorities in the coming months, Waters said, will be working to build a brigade of workers to visit Cuba for the May Day celebration in Havana, to learn firsthand about the gains working people made through their socialist revolution. This includes a chance for some to also participate in a May 4-6 conference and related activities in Guantanamo, near the base occupied by Washington for over a century.

The party and the Young Socialists are also building the World Festival of Youth and Students taking place in Sochi, Russia, Oct. 14-22. This presents another opportunity to work with youth around the world looking for ways to fight against imperialist domination and capitalist exploitation.

Waters noted increasing interest in books published by Pathfinder. There are new openings to get these books into workers hands internationally. She pointed to growing interest across Africa, including in South Africa, in Namibia  a former colony of South Africa whose independence was won as a result of revolutionary Cubas internationalist mission in Angola aiding those fighting the apartheid army  in Tanzania, and in West Africa. Bookstore orders for Pathfinders books containing speeches of Thomas Sankara, leader of the 1983-87 popular revolution in Burkina Faso, are growing there.

This is deeply connected to the work of the SWP and Communist Leagues, she said, as growing numbers of toilers from Africa who have come to the imperialist centers in North America and Europe to work and study look to learn more about politics.

Among those invited to attend the convention, in addition to members of the SWP and Communist Leagues, were a number of people from across North America who are members of committees that lead work by party supporters to keep Pathfinder books in print for use in the partys political activity, and raise funds for the SWPs work.

Convention delegates adopted the three reports and summaries, the introduction to the Clintons Anti-Working-Class Record, Jack Barnes letter to Raul Castro, and other motions on the partys political course. They elected a National Committee to lead the implementation of convention decisions.

The Socialist Workers Party is organizing an Active Workers Conference in Ohio June 15-17, to bring together workers campaigning for the SWP, helping circulate the partys books and the Militant, joining in labor struggles and social protests, and other common activity to discuss world political developments and to register progress in building the party.





Related articles:

Campaign for the Socialist Workers Party and Communist League candidates for mayor across N. America







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NY prison authorities punish, move Jalil Muntaqim

NEW YORK  Former Black Panther Jalil Muntaqim (Anthony Bottom) was transferred from Attica Correctional Facility to Southport Correctional Facility, a notorious supermax prison just south of Elmira, New York, in early January.

This is clearly a punitive transfer, Anne Lamb told the Militant Jan. 11. It also means hes much farther away from his legal advisers in Buffalo. Lamb is a spokesperson for the Jericho Movement, a group that Muntaqim helped found, which works to win amnesty for political prisoners.

Muntaqim was put in solitary confinement at Attica on Dec. 6 and then sentenced to four months of solitary. In a letter to supporters Muntaqim explained that during a class he was teaching to fellow inmates on Black History he had stated that gangs need to get organized, get away from criminal behavior and tribal warfare.

Prison officials twisted the comments to find him guilty of encouraging others to engage in gang activities, violent conduct, and encouraging other inmates to participate in a work-stoppage or other actions which may be detrimental to the order of [the] facility. They dismissed initial charges of making a speech without authorization, and unauthorized organizational activities.

Southport holds the second largest number of prisoners in SHUs  Special Housing Units  that is, solitary confinement, in New York state. Except for prisoners called cadre who are assigned to aid prison staff, all inmates are confined to their cells 23 hours a day and given food through slots in the cell door. They are allowed to exercise one hour a day in a small metal cage called the kennel.

Authorities at Attica had singled out Muntaqim for a while, putting him on mail watch and punishing him for writing to a prison reform group. In 2015 he was not allowed to receive several books, including a book of poems that he wrote. After he was placed in solitary, Lamb reports, he was finally given the book.

Prison authorities also impounded several issues of the Militant sent to Muntaqim, which the Militant is fighting.

Lamb visited Muntaqim in Southport Jan. 14. Jalils spirits are high, as always, she said. Visitors are separated from prisoners by plexiglass, but there is about a 3 to 4 inch space at the bottom so you can hold hands and share food.

Muntaqim is fighting to get all the charges dropped and to get transferred out of Southport and returned to the general prison population. Supporters of free speech and constitutional rights can aid this fight by writing to the New York State Department of Corrections. Address letters to Anthony Annucci, Acting Commissioner, New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, Harriman State Campus, 1220 Washington Ave., Albany, New York 12226.

Muntaqim has been in prison since he was 19 years old, accused of killing two police officers in 1971.

In a letter to supporters, Muntaqim said that he is elated that Judith Clark was granted clemency by Gov. Andrew Cuomo. Clark was found guilty of driving a getaway car in the 1981 robbery, allegedly by Weather Underground, of a Brinks armored car that left a guard and two police officers dead. Cuomo reduced her sentence from 75 years in prison to 35 years to life. This makes her eligible for parole this year.

At the same time, Muntaqim noted, officials in New York and elsewhere refuse to take any action that could lead to the release of Black political prisoners suffering the governments relentless vindictive posture, including Sundiata Acoli, Mutulu Shakur, Herman Bell and Seth Hayes. This highlights the pervasive racially discriminatory practices in the New York State prison and parole system, he said. Muntaqim, Bell and Hayes were sentenced to 25 years to life in New York, but have been repeatedly denied parole. Muntaqims supporters are asking Gov. Andrew Cuomo to commute his sentence.

Lopez: Step up fight to end colonial rule in Puerto Rico
"People of India do not know, even the people of Punjab do not know what Modi knows. Modi knows that there is no drug problem in Punjab. Modi knows but the people of Punjab do not know. It is most unfortunate", Congress spokesperson Kapil Sibal said.

By Press Trust of India: Senior Congress leader Kapil Sibal has hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for saying in Punjab there is no problem of drugs in the country.

"People of India do not know, even the people of Punjab do not know what Modi knows. Modi knows that there is no drug problem in Punjab. Modi knows but the people of Punjab do not know. It is most unfortunate. All wisdom comes from Modi. What he says is the truth," he said, taking a dig at him.

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Paying a left-handed compliment to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Sibal said while the former was "selling dreams", the latter was a "dream merchant" who was dealing in lies and false promises.

Also read | Demonetisation is scam, want judicial commission to probe, says Kapil Sibal

"As far as Arvind Kejriwal is concerned, he is one step ahead of Modi. While one is selling dreams, the other is a dream merchant. They are masters in telling lies, spreading rumours and making false promises", Congress spokesperson Kapil Sibal said. To a question on Kejriwal announcing freebies to people of Punjab, he said, "If this is what is to happen in India that the country moves forward with political lies, then they are the masters".

Sibal said that there was intolerance in the country under the current dispensation.

"In fact, the ugly head of intolerance has never been as vibrant in India as it has been since 2014. Intolerance is one of the hallmarks of this government. There is political intolerance, intolerance towards the minorities, intolerance towards the Adivasis, the Dalits, and the marginalised. But sadly, there is extreme tolerance for all the wrongdoings that their own people do," he said.

Also read | Modi is not aware of India's history, alleges Sibal

On the Congress' strategy in the ensuing Parliament session, Sibal said the party will analyse the Budget. "We do not know how the Budget is going to be."

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The first show of 'Mother Teresa' would be held at Karthika Tirunal Theatre on February 17, in the presence of significant personalities from socio-cultural, political and spiritual spheres of society, a release said.

By Press Trust of India: The unparallelled life history of Nobel laureate Mother Teresa will soon be staged as a docudrama next month.

The city-based Chavara Cultural Centre, in association with Kala, a cultural outfit here, are jointly staging the drama to commemorate the life and services of 'Mother' and to raise funds for helping the destitute children fallen as cancer victims.

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The first show of 'Mother Teresa' would be held at Karthika Tirunal Theatre on February 17, in the presence of significant personalities from socio-cultural, political and spiritual spheres of society, a release said in Thiruvananthapuram.

HERE IS ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW: Auxiliary bishop of Latin Arch Diocese of Thiruvananthapuram, Rev Dr Christudas would inaugurate the show and Malayalam University Vice Chancellor K Jayakumar would deliver the Mother Teresa Commemorative speech during the function. Mother's embodiment of kindness, compassion and her services to the poor would be showcased in the docudrama, it said. Ambi, Vijayan Thomas, Sushama, Hithu, Praveen, Mohankumar and several others are part of the drama. The organisers have plans to stage the drama in all other districts of the state in the next six months, the release added.

Also read: Mother Teresa declared St Teresa of Calcutta: 15 facts you didn't know about the nun

Also read: What makes Mother Teresa a saint

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The BJP on Saturday held its first rally since the Shiv Sena announced the latter would not tie up with the former for Mumbai's civic polls.

By Mayuresh Ganapatye: The BJP on Saturday held a rally in Mumbai ahead of the Maharashtra capital's civic polls. This was the party's first rally after Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray declared that his party will not tie up with the BJP for Mumbai's municipal elections. Both the parties, notably, are in alliance at the Maharashtra state and central level.

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As was expected, the BJP slammed Sena and make it the villain behind the breakup. In the opening remarks at Goregaon's NSE grounds in Mumbai, BJP's city chief Ashish Shelar compared Shiv Sena to the kauravas and the battle for the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation to the 'Mahabharata'. Shelar likened the Mumbai BJP team to the pandavas, asserting that the party will win the upcoming civic polls.

The BJP claimed that its relationship with Mumbai is stronger than that of the Shiv Sena with Shelar saying that Maharashtra's chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, who's from the BJP, was like Krishna and that Fadnavis tired to best to continue the alliance with Sena.

Also read: BJP-Shiv Sena split: Did Uddhav snap 25-year-old alliance for Raj Thackeray?

"To grow and expand our party in state, we didn't murder anyone. We gave our own blood for Mumbai city when needed. When in 1995, the underwold used to trouble common Mumbaikars and used to call for extortion our leader Gopinath Munde vanished these gangsters and made Mumbai free from Gangsters," Shelar said.

FADNAVIS: TRANSPARENCY OUR MAIN CONCERNCM Fadnavis also spoke at the rally, criticising Shiv Sena for being 'egositic' during alliance talks.

"We wanted an alliance...I told my leaders that seat sharing is not a big issue but...transparency is our main concern for BMC. When they (the Sena) offered us 60 seats...we realised that these people are not in favour of transparency. We will not accept people who extort money (in) the name of Shivaji Maharaj," Fadnavis said.

While the both the BJP and Shiv Sena are taking swipes at each other before next month's election, it would be interesting to see what happens after the results are announced on February 23. It has been a winning formula for the two parties contest separately, criticse each other and then join hands after an election to acquire power.

Also read: Maharashtra civic polls: Once allies, will there now be a cut-throat contest between Shiv Sena, BJP?

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A family friendly fun-day Brunch

Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort and Spas first-ever Sunday Family Brunch kicked off this month, taking full advantage of the perfect sunny weather which has come on in fits and starts this high season.

Saturday 28 January 2017, 02:00PM

The fruit platter was great and don't for get to ask for a smoothie. Photo: Mark Knowles

The name says it all... kids are not an afterthought at this brunch, they are the stars!

There are fun-filled activities aplenty for your children to enjoy including face painting, a bouncy castle, fish feeding, pool games and adorable baby goats to feed as well.

Fussy eaters wont be a problem with lots of kids favourite foods like spaghetti and meatballs, mini hot dogs and hamburgers, and of course, chicken nuggets and chips. But lets not forget the adults!

While the kids are busy tiring themselves out romping around the bouncy castle, parents can kick back by the pool and graze from a selection of seafood, grilled meats, Thai dishes, sushi, salad and much more.

The brunch is incredible value too, at B999++ for adults, half price for kids aged 6 to 16, and free for kids under 6, it is an affordable Sunday even for the largest family.

Dont be fooled by the low price though, the buffet is one of the most extensive on the island. There are several bamboo salas around the pool specialising in Thai favourites like pad Thai, sweet roti, noodle soup, chicken and rice, and there is even a tandoori oven churning out deliciously juicy chicken and fish smothered in Indian spices and served with piping hot naan bread.

For the traditionalists there is a full Sunday roast selection available with crackling pork, roast beef and lamb and plenty of side dishes.

If you want something a little lighter there are mixed salads  my favourite was the smoked duck salad with cranberries  or you can make your own and choose your favourite dressing.

There is also a huge fruit platter and a gourmet cheese board. Be sure to ask for a custom made fruit smoothie with any fruit you like, they are amazing!

Seafood lovers get the royal treatment as well, with freshly shucked oysters by the dozen and steamed prawns and crabs on ice inside.

If you head outside to the grill you can get spanking fresh flathead lobsters (also known in Australia as Moreton Bay Bugs), grilled squid and a selection of fish.

While youre at the grill you can order up some fillet steak, lamb chops, tuna steaks, spiced chevapchichi sausages and more.

Finally, you can round off your afternoon with some sumptuous desserts such as chewy macaroons, mango tarts, creme brulee, chocolate covered fruits and a variety of Thai sweets.

I also recommend a visit to the ice cream bar, where you can pick your favourite flavours (for my money, the lemon gelato is the hands down winner) and then top it with one of a dozen indulgent toppings like caramel or chocolate fudge sauce.

The buffet is open from 12pm to 3pm and includes use of the swimming pool (and water slide!), so there is no need to rush, in fact, I found it is definitely better to graze slowly  that way you can fit more in.

So bring the sunscreen and book and you can lounge by the pool, let the kids play, and enjoy a totally relaxing Sunday brunch experience.

For more information or bookings call +66 76 396 433 or hkthi.fb@hilton.com
Conflicting accounts blur blame in death of British badminton champion in Phuket crash

PHUKET: Conflicting accounts have blurred responsibility for the deadly accident that killed English badminton champion Rebecca Shaw in Phuket in December 2015, when her friend drove their scooter into the path of a truck, an inquest in England has heard.

tourismtransportaccidentsdeath

By The Phuket News

Saturday 28 January 2017, 06:08PM

Conflicting accounts blur blame in death of British badminton champion in Phuket crash

Ms Shaw, from Bradley, near Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, was on her way to swim with elephants with Julie Robinson when the accident happened on a four-lane dual carriageway in Phuket in December, reported the Guardian. (See story here.)

Shaw, 32, who played for the England badminton team 10 times and was described by her family as a real-life angel, was travelling in Thailand after doing a yoga course in Bali.

The inquest into her death at Bradford coroners court heard the exact details of the accident remained unclear due to conflicting accounts from witnesses. (See story here.)

The coroner, Martin Fleming, said the driver of the Toyota pickup truck, Natthaphon Klomkhan, told police he was driving at approximately 60kmh on the morning of December 12 when the scooter, on which Shaw was a passenger, drove from a side road across the lane of traffic and in front of his vehicle, the Guardian noted.

Mr Klomkhan said he braked, sounded his horn and flashed his lights but was unable to avoid a collision.

Ms Robinson, who could not be contacted to attend the inquest, said she checked there was no traffic before she drove across the road and claimed the driver was travelling too fast and failed to slow down, change lanes or pull into a large car park by the road.

In an email sent by Robinson to the coroner in July, she said: He just drove straight into the back of the scooter, sending both of us flying through the air at some height.

I believe the main cause of the accident was excessive speed by the pick-up driver.

Ms Robinson described blood pouring from Shaws mouth after her head hit a metal barrier. She said the ambulance crew resuscitated her friend twice at the scene, but she was pronounced dead in hospital.

The inquest heard police in Thailand had considered charging Robinson in connection with the accident.

Coroner Fleming said photographs of the scene showed Ms Robinsons view would have been obscured and that crossing the carriageway would have left little margin for error. He said it was unclear whether Mr Klomkhan was driving too fast.

He ruled Shaw, who was wearing a helmet, died as a result of head injuries sustained in a road traffic collision.

He said: On 12 December 2015, Rebecca Leanne Shaw was riding pillion on a motor scooter when the driver made a right hand turn to cross a four-lane dual carriageway into the path of an approaching pick-up truck. As a result of the collision, she sustained fatal injuries.

In a eulogy read at the inquest by the coroners officer, Shaws mother, Marjorie Shaw, said: She was a real-life angel who cared for everyone around her. Her presence always lit up the room.
Legendary British actor John Hurt dies, age 77

ENGLAND: British actor John Hurt, known for his roles in Elephant Man and Harry Potter, has died aged 77 after a battle with pancreatic cancer, reports said Saturday citing his agent.



By AFP

Saturday 28 January 2017, 01:59PM

John Hurt, renowned for his many performances honoured as marking cinematic history, has died at age 77. Photo: AFP

The actor, who played Mr Ollivander in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, also starred in the film adaptation of George Orwells novel 1984 and played the role of Kane in Alien.

He was twice nominated for an Oscar, for his performance in the 1978 film Midnight Express as Max, a British man imprisoned in Turkey, and for his starring role in Elephant Man two years later.

He also received a BAFTA award for Midnight Express, as well as a Golden Globe in the best actor in a supporting role category.

His death was confirmed to the British press agency PA by his agent Charles McDonald.

A Dramatic Career

Knighted by Queen Elizabeth II last year for services to drama, Hurt was born on January 22, 1940 near Chesterfield in the British heartland county of Derbyshire.

His mother, who herself was an amateur actress, forbade him from going to the cinema, which she thought was too common for the son of a pastor.

He discovered theatre at school, but it was towards painting that the great admirer of Edvard Munch first turned, securing a grant to become teacher of drawing at Saint Martins School of Art in London.

In 1960 his passion for the stage caught up with him and he entered the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) from which he graduated two years later.

In parallel with the stage he also made his debut in television, where he made his mark in Britain portraying transvestite writer Quentin Crisp, and then the Roman emperor Caligula.

His role model was Alec Guinness in David Leans Oliver Twist.

It was the first time on film Id seen an actor practise the theatrical tradition of taking himself to the part, rather than the other way round  something that remains a lasting influence on my work to this day, he told the Guardian newspaper in 2011.

Deep and grave voice

In 1978 he played Max, an English heroin addict in the hellish Turkish jail in Alan Parkers Midnight Express. He won an Bafta award and the Golden Globe for the best supporting role and was nominated for an Oscar.

The year after the tall and slender actor with a shock of red hair played the second officer Kane in Ridley Scotts Alien.

The scene where the extra-terrestrial kills him when emerging from his chest has gone down in the annals of cinema.

In 1980, after 12 hours of make-up, he slipped into the tragic skin of the Elephant Man  for the black- and-white masterpiece of David Lynch.

His performance won him a second Oscar nomination and a Bafta for the best actor. He won another Bafta for his whole career in 2012.

Hurt excelled in cult movies and particularly in futuristic films, like 1984, in which he played Winston Smith in the same year, V for Vendetta, by James McTeigue in 2005 and Snowpiercer by Joon-ho Bong in 2013.

His standing among the British acting community also saw him lined up among the all-star cast of the 2011 remake of Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, joining stars including Gary Oldman, Colin Firth, Tom Hardy, Toby Jones, Mark Strong, Benedict Cumberbatch and Ciaran Hinds.

But his career of 140 films, of which he admits openly some he accepted to make a living, also led him to portray Garrick Ollivander, a genial magic wand seller in the Harry Potter films, and the mad scientist Oxley in the Indiana Jones Kingdom of the Crystal Skull.

The actor with a melancholy regard who scoured the bars of Londons Soho district with Peter OToole, Oliver Reed and Lucian Freud, liked playing eccentrics and psychotics, be they victims or torturers.

His deep and grave voice led him to carry out on several occasions the role of narrator, notably in Dogville of Lars Von Trier  with whom he collaborated on three occasions  or in Perfume, the Story of a Murderer, the adaptation of the novel of Germanys Patrick Sueskind.

After having fought problems with alcohol, Hurt announced on June 16, 2015 on his blog that he was suffering from pancreatic cancer and said he was more than optimistic about a satisfactory outcome.

Scarred by the accidental death in 1983 of his fiancee of 16 years, the French model Marie-Lise Volpeliere-Pierrot, Hurt was married four times and had two children.
Phuket dive instructor crackdown may have terminal effect, warns industry representative

PHUKET: The Association of Thailand Underwater Sports (ATUS) has warned that further arrests of Phuket dive instructors for teaching at locations outside work permit regulations could kill off many businesses in the islands booming dive industry.

tourism

By The Phuket News

Saturday 28 January 2017, 10:20AM

Phuket dive instructors arrested for teaching at locations other than at their employers office address could kill off many small dive shops, ATUS warned. Photo: Tanyaluk Sakoot

I received complaints from several instructors that they were fined a lot of money for breaching this condition, even if they have a legal instructors licence. Some of them are giving up and closing their shops, Ratanapon Promchu, Manager of the Phuket-based ATUS office, told The Phuket News.

If this condition continues to be strictly enforced, it could have a terminal effect on Phukets scuba diving industry and hurt Phukets overall tourism reputation, she added.

The warning follows a spate of arrests of dive instructors for using swimming pools at other dive companies, or teaching in the sea, as their employing company did not have pools at their places of business.

Among the slew of complaints received by The Phuket News about the arrests were recurring reports that passports and work permits were being withheld even after a court-levied fine had been paid.

Allegations surfaced that officials were looking for cash contributions of a consistent sum of B35,000 before they would return the passports and work permits. (See story here.)

Those allegations have yet to be responded to by officials.

I would like to request that officials consider a stipulation to dive instructor work permits that enables them to conduct instruction outside of their registered place of business, Ms Ratanapon said.

This issue needed to be clarified. We plan to present an official request to the Phuket Employment Office in February, she said.

After we learned about the spate of dive instructors arrests on January 5, I went to talk with the Phuket Employment Office the next day but my request was refused, Ms Ratanapon explained.

The reason which the officials gave me was that my complaint was not detailed enough. They said it needed to contain more details as to why instructors are complaining and making the request to be allowed to teach outside of their registered business place.

Now we are asking dive shop owners and other instructors who want to be involved in the official complaint to contact us. We aim to collect all the individual complaints and requests together and submit our joint proposal under the ATUS name to the Phuket Employment Office in February.

I hope the Phuket Employment Office will seriously consider our request, Ms Ratanapon added.

The Phuket News contacted the Phuket Employment office and were told by a staffer who did not want to be named, that, The Acting Chief of the Phuket Employment Office is in other province on official duty. She is not available to comment. Please contact her next week.
Phuket officials ordered to clean up their act, clean up Phuket

PHUKET: Environment officials across the island have been ordered to clean up their areas across Phuket, especially garbage dumped along streets, and to report their actions directly to Phuket Vice Governor Teera Anantaseriwidhya.

environmentpollutiontourism

By The Phuket News

Saturday 28 January 2017, 01:08PM

All relevant officials were ordered to clean up their respective areas. Photo: PR Dept

All relevant officials were ordered to clean up their respective areas. Photo: PR Dept

Phuket Vice Governor Teera Anantaseriwidhya demanded action be taken to clean up Phuket. Photo: PR Dept

Vice Governor Teera handed down the order at a meeting of the Provincial Trash and Wastewater Committee held at the Phuket City Municipality Environment Office on Thursday (Jan 26).

Present to receive the order in person were Kasem Sukwaree, Director Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment Phuket office, and Dr Pornsri Suthanaruk, Director of Environmental Office Region 15.

At the meeting Phuket V/Gov Teera demanded action be taken to clean up the streets and dump sites across Phuket.

He also ordered for updates on garbage collection practices by local municipalities across the island and for an update on the current capability of the municipal garbage incinerator at Saphan Hin  the only large-scale incinerator in Phuket

V/Gov Teera also ordered to be updated on the project install wastewater-treatment facilities along the canal that runs through Samkong, on the north side of Phuket Town.

The Provincial Trash and Wastewater Committee must solve these issues. It must take more effective action about all forms of waste disposal on the island, V/Gov Teera said.

V/Gov Teera ordered every relevant government office to take steps to immediately address the islands growing problems with garbage.

These issues are serious and must be addressed urgently, he said.
Thai Airways told to pursue civil law action

BANGKOK: The anti-graft body has advised Thai Airways International (THAI) to pursue civil lawsuits for damage caused by those involved in the Rolls-Royce bribery scandal.

tourismtransportcrimecorruption

By Bangkok Post

Saturday 28 January 2017, 09:27AM

The NACC has advised Thai Airways to pursue civil lawsuits. Photo: Bangkok Post / file

National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) secretary-general Sansern Poljeak said on Friday (Jan 27) said the 20-year statute of limitations for bribery cases that took place during the first two periods involving the scandal has now expired.

However, the statute of limitations for cases in the third period between 2004-2005 still stands, and THAI can still pursue civil action against those involved during this period, Mr Sansern said.

He added that the national carrier can also petition the Anti-Money Laundering Office (Amlo) to examine the money trails of those involved and freeze their assets.

Mr Sansern said there was no need for Prime Minister and National Council for Peace and Order chief Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha to exercise his special power under Section 44 of the interim charter to extend the statute of limitations on those expired bribery cases, as this would cast the country in a negative light.

Mr Sansern also said an NACC fact-finding panel can identify who was the transport minister, the deputy transport minister, and THAI officials at the time of the bribery scandal that took place in the third period, though the panel still cannot establish any connection between them and the bribery.

The NACC panel will have to wait for more information from the UK's Serious Fraud Office (SFO) before taking further action, he said.

According to the statement of facts prepared in a British court, the period of the scandal dates from 1991 to 2005 and involves payments totalling about US$36.38 million (B1.28 billion) to regional intermediaries.

Some of the money was for individuals who were agents of the state of Thailand and employees of THAI Airways. The scandal involved the purchase by THAI of Rolls-Royce T800 engines, according to the document.

The bribery occurred over three periods. One concerned the period between June 1, 1991 and June 30, 1992. Rolls-Royce agreed to pay $18.8 million to intermediaries during the period to influence the purchasing decision.

The second period was between March 1, 1992 and March 31, 1997 when Rolls-Royce agreed to pay $10.38 million to intermediaries.

The third period was between April 1, 2004 and Feb 28, 2005. Rolls-Royce agreed to pay almost $7.2 million to intermediaries.

THAI initiated an investigation into the bribery allegations after they were made public and the findings are due to be announced on Feb 20.

Mr Sansern also said the NACC held a teleconference meeting with the SFO on Thursday to discuss the matter.

The SFO had asked the NACC for a formal written confirmation that the NACC is the main agency responsible for handling the bribery cases.

The SFO has also asked that other agencies also send letters of confirmation that the NACC leads the probe, Mr Sansern said, while adding that the letters are expected to be sent to the SFO next week.

He said the questions the NACC will ask the SFO will cover who received the bribes, when and how.

Mr Sansern said that while the SFO has shown willingness to provide the NACC with information, it has also raised concern that there are many Thai agencies seeking information on the case. The revelation of information on the case by various Thai agencies could affect the way the SFO handles its own case, Mr Sansern said.

As well as the NACC, the Office of the Auditor-General, the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission, THAI and various other agencies have all formed their own teams to seek information from the SFO.

Sangsit Piriyarangsan, the dean of Rangsit University's College of Social Innovation, told a seminar that Thailand should resort to the mechanisms under an agreement with the UN which set standards to fight money laundering and stipulates that money laundering cases have no statute of limitations.

Mr Sangsit noted that the bribery case involving THAI could involve money laundering according to the anti-money laundering standards set by the Financial Action Task Force to solve problems relating to the expired bribery cases.

Capt Kanok Thongphuek, a THAI vice-president in charge of human resources said yesterday the national carrier is ready to clarify details of the complaint filed by former THAI Vice-President Yothin Pamornmontri.

Mr Yothin on Thursday petitioned Prime Minister Prayut to invoke Section 44 of the interim constitution to probe the procurement of 10 Airbus A340 planes bought by the national flag carrier, which have now been grounded and left to rot.

Mr Yothin, a former THAI pilot, called for an inquiry into the procurement of the fleet of Airbus A340-500 and A340-600 aircraft.

The deal should be investigated for its transparency and investment worthiness, Mr Yothin said. The airline had proceeded with the purchase even though the National Economic and Social Development Board had objected to it.

Capt Kanok said the company is waiting for notification from the Prime Ministers Office.

Read original story here.
Trump bans Syrian refugees, arrivals from seven Muslim countries

UNITED STATES: US President Donald Trump signed a sweeping new executive order Friday to suspend refugee arrivals and impose tough new controls on travellers from seven Muslim countries.

politicsimmigration

By AFP

Saturday 28 January 2017, 01:37PM

US President Donald Trump signs an executive order alongside US Defense Secretary James Mattis (right) and US Vice President Muike Pence (left) on January 27, 2016 at the Pentagon in Washington, DC. Photo: AFP

In line with one of his most controversial campaign promises, and to the horror of human rights groups, Trump said he was making America safe from radical Islamic terrorists.

This is big stuff, he declared at the Pentagon, after signing an order entitled: Protection of the nation from foreign terrorist entry into the United States.

Trumps decree suspends the entire US refugee resettlement program for at least 120 days while tough new vetting rules are established.

These new protocols will ensure that those approved for refugee admission do not pose a threat to the security and welfare of the United States.

In addition, it specifically bars Syrian refugees from the United States indefinitely, or until the president himself decides that they no longer pose a threat.

Meanwhile, no visas will be issued for 90 days to migrants or visitors from seven mainly-Muslim countries: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

Extreme vetting

During the suspensions of the refugee and visa programs, new rules will be devised for what Trump as called the extreme vetting of applicants backgrounds.

Some exceptions will be made for members of religious minorities, which  in the countries targeted by the decree  would imply favourable treatment for Christians.

Civil liberties groups and many counterterror experts condemned the measures, declaring it inhumane to lump the victims of conflict in with the extremists who threaten them.

Extreme vetting is just a euphemism for discriminating against Muslims, said Anthony Romero, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union.

Romero argued that, by choosing countries with Muslim majorities for tougher treatment, Trumps order breaches the US Constitution's ban on religious discrimination.

Ahmed Rehab, director of the Chicago chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, said his group would mount legal challenges to fight the order tooth and nail.

It is targeting people based on their faith and national origin, and not on their character or their criminality, he told AFP.

Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani activist and Nobel peace laureate who was shot in the head by the Taliban in 2012, said she was heartbroken.

She urged Trump not to abandon the worlds most defenseless children and families.

But the measure will be popular with Trump's nationalist base, and stops short of a threat made during last years campaign to halt all Muslim travel to the United States.

Trumps supporters defend the measures as necessary to prevent supporters of Al-Qaeda or the Islamic State group from infiltrating the US homeland disguised as refugees.

And the State Department, which with the Department of Homeland Security will have to implement the measures, said it was ready to put them into immediate effect.

We will announce any changes affecting travellers to the United States as soon as that information is available, spokesman Mark Toner said.

We take seriously our responsibility to safeguard the American public while remaining committed to assisting the worlds most vulnerable people.

Wonderful thing

Trump signed the order  which will cut the number of refugees the United States plans to resettle this fiscal year from 110,000 to 50,000  in a ceremony at the Pentagon.

Moments earlier, he had signed an order to rebuild the US military and had watched Vice President Mike Pence swear in respected former Marine general James Mattis as his new Secretary of Defense.

Trump showered Mattis with praise and had earlier admitted he would allow the generals opposition to the use of torture to override his own enthusiasm for harsh measures.

In what was a busy day from Trump, one week after his inauguration, he also met with Britains Prime Minister Theresa May, the first foreign leader to visit his White House.

He hailed the most special relationship between the twin Atlantic powers and praised Britains decision to leave the European Union as a wonderful thing.

When it irons out, youre going to have your own identity, and you are going to have the people that you want in your country, Trump said, in a nod to his own immigration stance.

Youre going to be able to make free trade deals without having somebody watching you and what you are doing.

May conveyed an invitation from Queen Elizabeth II for Trump to come to Britain for a state visit this year, and thanked him for his 100 per cent support of NATO.

Over the weekend, Trump is due to make calls to Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Germanys Chancellor Angela Merkel, Russias President Vladimir Putin, Frances President Francois Hollande and Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.

He is keen to develop friendly ties with Moscow, but played down reports that he might quickly end US economic sanctions imposed on Russia for its intervention in Ukraine.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Lala Lajpat Rai was respected for his "fearlessness, impeccable integrity and fight against injustice."

By Indo-Asian News Service: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today paid tribute to Lala Lajpat Rai on his 151st birth anniversary.

Paying homage to the leader who is known for his contribution to the Independence movement, Modi said Lala Lajpat Rai was respected for his "fearlessness, impeccable integrity and fight against injustice."

Rai, popularly known as Punjab Kesari was part of the "Lal Bal Pal" trio.

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Also read: India Today Mood of the Nation poll: Note or vote, India banks on PM Modi

He was one of the three extremist members of the Indian National Congress who gave their life for the independence of India along with Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Bipin Chandra Pal.

Rai was born on January 28, 1865 and died on November 17, 1928.

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is reporting increased flu activity in many areas of the United States. As a result, Coconino County health officials are urging those who have not yet received a flu shot to get vaccinated.

Many healthcare providers and pharmacies offer low-cost flu vaccines. Individuals can also get a flu shot at the CCPHSD Clinic, 2625 N. King St. for $30 for adults and $21 for children aged 18 and under. Programs are available to assist those who are unable to pay.

Additional information is available at www.coconino.az.gov/health or by calling 679-7222.
By Press Trust of India: From Sajjad Hussain

Islamabad, Jan 28 (PTI) Pakistan has expressed hope that it could soon host the SAARC summit which was postponed after India boycotted it, with Prime Ministers advisor on foreign policy Sartaj Aziz alleging that New Delhi "impeded" the groupings process.

Aziz said this during a meeting with outgoing South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Secretary General Arjun Bahadur Thapa who was on a visit to Pakistan yesterday.

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Pakistan was looking forward to welcoming SAARC leaders for the 19th Summit in November but it was postponed when "India impeded the SAARC process and violated the spirit of the SAARC Charter", Foreign Office (FO) said in a statement.

"Pakistan remains committed to hosting the 19th SAARC Summit at Islamabad at the earliest so that the objectives of regional cooperation under the SAARC umbrella can be pursued more vigorously," FO quoted Aziz saying in the meeting.

He also reaffirmed Pakistans commitment to regional cooperation under the umbrella of SAARC for promoting welfare of the people of South Asia, improving their quality of life, economic progress, social uplift and cultural cooperation.

Aziz said that due to several impediments and challenges, SAARC has been unable to fulfill the vision that was laid out for it by its founding members.

Aziz said he believed that the SAARC Secretariat could play an important role as catalyst to bring all the member states together and ensure timely and effective implementation of programme and activities that would benefit the region.

Thapa emphasised the need to overcome the difficulties the organisation faced and expressed hope that the 19th SAARC Summit would be held in Islamabad as soon as possible.

Thapa, who paid a farewell call on Aziz, also held a meeting with Foreign Secretary Aizaz Ahmed Chaudhry, who appreciated Thapas contributions to the SAARC process and reiterated Pakistans commitment to the SAARC objectives.

Chaudhry emphasised that internal and bilateral problems of member states must not be allowed to affect the organisation and that 19th SAARC Summit should be held as soon as possible to put the whole SAARC process back on track.

On behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Syed Zulfiqar Gardezi, Additional Secretary (Asia Pacific) hosted a lunch for the Secretary General, which was attended by Amjad Hussian Sial, Secretary General-elect of the SAARC.

Thapa who hails from Nepal, is the 12th Secretary General of SAARC. He will complete his tenure on February 28 after which Amjad Hussain Sial, former Special Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan is to take charge as the next Secretary General of SAARC. PTI SH CPS AKJ CPS

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Ram Gopal Varma posted that he was disappointed that Pawan Kalyan attacked him personally and wrote, "I spoke about PK only as a fan but never spoke about his personal matters like his three marriages."

By India Today Web Desk: Ram Gopal Varma is quite the motormouth. This time, the director has irked Tollywood actor Pawan Kalyan with his comments. RGV had earlier taken on Pawan's brothers Chiranjeevi and Naga Babu as well.

ALSO READ | RGV takes on Chiranjeevi's family, calls Naga Babu incompetent

ALSO READ | Chiranjeevi on Naga Babu-RGV fight: I was hurt, but I didn't react

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An irate Pawan Kalyan said at a press meet, "I will speak about Ram Gopal Varma once and for all and put an end to this. He is a 50-year-old guy with a daughter who got recently married. Why would I listen to a man who says he collects pornographic films at this age? He talks good and ill about me. There is nothing more I want to say about him."

RGV had been praising the Power Star, who is fighting for Special Category Status (SCS) to be given to Andhra Pradesh, for fighting "real villains" for "survival problems of actual people." The director even attacked Tollywood actor Mahesh Babu for supporting the Jallikattu protests but not saying a word about problems closer home, and asked him to take a leaf out of Pawan Kalyan's book for being more concerned than even the state's chief minister.

However, things changed when Pawan could not be physically present for the protest which was to be held on RK beach in Vizag on Republic Day, due to his shooting commitments for Katamarayudu. RGV criticised him saying, "Why is Pawan Kalyan still only tweeting from far? When is he coming to battlefield? How can a war be won without the king leading it?"

After Pawan Kalyan's angry response, Ram Gopal Varma said he was disappointed that the actor made it personal. "I spoke about PK only as a fan but never spoke about his personal matters like his three marriages. I already wrote about my lifestyle and my thoughts in my book, Na Ishtam. I am very unfortunate that he didn't understand that I spoke the truth because I like him and not because I want to criticise him," the director wrote on Twitter, inviting abuses from Pawan Kalyan fans.

RGV chose to end the ugly spat with by posting, "I wish him, his wife, his children, his family, his Jana sena party and all his fans all the best. Bye."

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How many people have already voted absentee in South Dakota ahead of Election Day?

elections
By Press Trust of India: Panaji, Jan 28 (PTI) Promising to make Goa the "most comfortable" state, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today sought a comfortable majority for BJP in the February 4 polls as he dared Congress and AAP to fight on development plank instead of raking up minor issues like election dates and advancement of the Union budget.

Addressing his first rally in Goa since the announcement of Assembly polls here, Modi also referred to the surgical strikes carried out by the army across the LoC in Pakistan- occupied Kashmir in September last year while showering praise on Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar, the former Chief Minister from this state.

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"This election is to free Goa from the disease of political instability. During the decade of 1990s, Goa saw as many as 12 Chief Ministers and this has pushed behind all the achievements of Goa," he said.

"Goa should not commit the mistake of ushering in instability. It should give BJP a comfortable majority. I assure you that if you give us a comfortable majority, we will make Goa the most comfortable state," he said.

Lamenting the trend of "vote-cutting" by some in elections, Modi cautioned the voters, saying, "these are the people who cut into the pockets of democracy. They are pick- pockets of democracy and they can never think of helping anyone as they try to show democracy down and attempt to weaken it."

Daring the opposition to contest polls on development plank, the Prime Minister said it pained him to see parties running away from a debate on the issue.

He said some parties have already conceded defeat and started finding excuses, an apparent dig at Congress and AAP for raking up issues like fixing of poll dates and advancement of Union Budget.

While attacking Congress and AAP, he asked people not to fall into their trap as he wanted to do all that has not not been done in the last 50 years and help fill Goa with tourists from across the world.

In an apparent attack on AAP for questioning the Election Commission over fixing poll dates, he accused it of not having faith in the "umpire" and said it has already conceded defeat and was finding excuses.

He alleged that an attempt is being made to lower the values of democracy and some people took pride in doing so. (MORE) PTI RPS SKC RMT NM AKK AKK

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Former Union Finance Minister P Chidambaram on Saturday said the cash crunch in the wake of demonetisation is still continuing in many places in the country even though it has eased to a extent in the metros.

"There are 5,199 automated teller machines in all the northeastern states put together. Out of which 3,645 are in Assam half of them have no money. I was in Tirumala (Andhra Pradesh) and every bank has a branch at Tirumala. There is no money. Even today, 40 per cent of ATMs have not been stacked with currency," he said.

"The cash crunch has eased for those in metropolitan cities and for those in Uttar Pradesh. Cash crunch has not eased in Nagaland, Odisha, remote areas of Bihar," the senior Congress leader said at Tata Steel Kolkata Literary Meet here.

As for money-laundering through Jan Dhan accounts, he said: "Twenty-five per cent accounts and earlier financial inclusion accounts are still zero-balance accounts. So, there is no money-laundering in these accounts. In the remaining accounts, the average money being laundered is Rs 27,000. In small number of cases, huge amounts were passed around."

The evidence does not point to wholesale use of Jan Dhan accounts for money laundering, Chidambaram added.
Priyanka and Rahul Gandhi have been deciding the matters for the Congress party for quite some time. While clamour is growing for Rahul Gandhi to take over as Congress president from mother Sonia Gandhi, voices are getting louder for Priyanka Gandhi to enter into active politics.

By Supriya Bhardwaj: If he was spearheading Congress party's Kisan Yatra in Uttar Pradesh, she was quietly brainstorming the strategy to strengthen party position in the poll-bound state.

If he is trying to iron out differences among the Congress leaders in Punjab, she ensured that Punjab Congress campaign gets a 'Star Power'.

If he was spearheading Opposition parties' attack against NDA government on demonetisation, she overlooked preparations for Congress party's Jan Vedana Sammelan- which marked the beginning of second leg of protest campaign.

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Any decision that Congress takes these days has a stamp from GS.

Meet the new head in Congress, rather heads of the grand old party: GS - The Gandhi Siblings.

READ| How Priyanka Gandhi's phone call to Dimple Yadav sealed SP-Congress deal

LET'S SEE THE PROOF

According to sources, these days Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi and his younger sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra together brainstorm, chalk out strategies and finalise things right from election campaigns to alliance partners.

So when Ahmed Patel, political secretary to Congress president Sonia Gandhi, tweeted that in Uttar Pradesh, Samajwadi and Congress alliance was finalised by Akhilesh Yadav, general secretary in-charge Ghulam Nabi Azad and Priyanka Gandhi, did not come as a surprise to many.

Neither did it surprise party insiders when Punjab Congress chief Captain Amarinder Singh put a stamp on the buzz that it was Priyanka Gandhi who ensured that Navjot Singh Sidhu joins Congress.

ALSO WATCH:

HOW RAHUL GANDHI BENEFITS FROM THE EQUATION

Rahul Gandhi, meanwhile, is reaching to other parties to ensure Opposition becomes a formidable force in Parliament. The entire demonetisation stir inside Parliament was a brain child of Rahul, pointed a senior leader.

"It is no easy task to bring SP and BSP; TMC and Left parties on same platform and present a united front against Modi government," added the senior leader.

PRIYANKA GANDHI INTO ACTIVE POLITICS?

While the clamour is on in the party for Rahul Gandhi's elevation from Congress vice-president's post to that of party the party president, leaders as well as workers at the ground are demanding that Priyanka Gandhi should step into active politics.

"Rahul Gandhi is fit to be president," said Punjab Congress chief Captain Amarinder Singh before adding, "Let Priyanka decide when she wants to come into active politics."

READ| BJP leader Vinay Katiyar says Priyanka Gandhi not as pretty as many in his party

Interestingly, Rahul Gandhi has always maintained that it is his sister who has to decide when she wants to come into active politics and he would always stand by her.

The duo at the moment is slowly but steadily bringing a change in the grand old party. Strengthening organisation, bringing new talent, hunting new allies to contesting elections, Gandhi siblings are doing it all, together.

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The Rahul, Priyanka and their mother Congress president Sonia Gandhi were last seen together in public at Anand Bhawan in Allahabad, where an exhibition on former prime minister Indira Gandhi was organised.

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Fiscal deficit target of 3 per cent for 2017-18 looks difficult as the debt dynamics of the country show "stickiness", rating agency Crisil said on Saturday.

"Three per cent looks like a stiff task at this juncture for fiscal deficit. When the economy needs help, we need to move to a range that is going to provide the government some flexibility," DK Joshi, Chief Economist at Crisil, told BTVi in an interview.

"The debt dynamics show stickiness. We have not been able to bring down the debt-GDP ratio, which is quite high for India. It complicates matters," Joshi said.

The economist said that the government needs to come up with substantial steps to push up the revenues to maintain fiscal prudence for the next two to three years.

The borrowing target, however, he said is not expected to be very large and in line with the fiscal deficit target.

"The borrowing will not be too large if fiscal deficit target is three per cent. I don't see borrowings as significant or at the level that would spook the stock market and reverse the gains."

In FY17, spectrum or excise duty on oil that has led to revenue windfall are all temporary measures and may reverse in the coming fiscal.

Joshi said that the concern is to improve the tax-GDP ratio in the next 2-3 years.

"Let's see how creative the Budget is in extracting higher compliance from individuals. Though there is not much scope to raise the tax-GDP ratio in the short run," he said.

"In terms of Income Declaration Scheme (IDS), I don't see much cushion coming from these schemes. They can't continue for ever, they should be leveraged for increasing compliance," he added.

Joshi said that if there is any tax benefit or tweaking from the Budget, it will be for the lower income group.

He said the government should focus on execution capacity so that the budget does not lie unused.

The economist also said that the Central Statistical Organisation (CSO) estimate of 7.1 per cent GDP growth for 2016-17 may not be accurate as it does not take into account the data during demonetisation period.

"CSO has cut down FY17 GDP estimates downwards to 7.1 per cent from the earlier 7.6 per cent. CSO estimate doesn't take into account the impact of demonetisation because it takes data till October into account," he said.

"Our GDP estimate is around 6.9 per cent for 2016-17. It is difficult to predict GDP in this scenario because it is unprecedented. Whatever numbers come out at this juncture, will be subject to revision," he added.
The central government is spending huge amounts to modernise infrastructure, particularly in the railways sector to push growth, Railways Minister Suresh Prabhu said on Friday.

He said the government will invest more in railways this year as compared to the previous years.

"Railways used to put Rs 30,000- Rs 40,000 crore in a year into railway infrastructureWe increase the investment to Rs 1 lakh crore. Last year, it was Rs 1.21 lakh crore and this year, it will be definitely higheralmost Rs 3 lakh crore has been invested in the span of two-and-half years," he said.

These investments are in addition to whatever the ministry allocates out of the budget and by giving contracts to different agencies, the minister said.

He said these huge investments in infrastructure and the new indirect tax regime Goods and Services Tax (GST) would help in spurring the economic growth of the country.

Talking about opportunities in Andhra Pradesh, the minister said the state has all the ingredients, including mineral resources, power and water to attract both global and domestic investors.

"If all states grow at higher rates, India will grow at 10 per cent," he added.

Speaking at the summit, GMR Group Chairman G M Rao too said that huge potential for investments exists in the state.

"We are partnering with the state in developing the port based special investment region near Kakinada in East Godavari district. This region would house various industries including petrochemicals, food and agro processing, electronics, sport goods and apparels," he said.

Suzlon Energy Chairman Tulsi Tanti said that out of the target of deploying 175 GW renewable power capacities by 2022, "18 GW of the national target, we will deliver in Andhra Pradesh".

The firm is also committed to building projects of 4 GW capacity in the next five years, he said.

Essel Chairman Subhas Chandra said that the company has signed an MoU worth Rs 5,000 crore for developing a smart city in the state.

Seeking investments from global and domestic investors, Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu said under 'Vision 2050', Andhra Pradesh aims to be among the top three states of India by 2022 and increase per capita income.

He has divided this vision into certain goals and thrust areas like giving gas connection to all household by 2019, toilets in all houses, social and sanitation security, 247 power supply and job and water security to all.
Defending himself in loan repayment issues, liquor tycoon Vijay Mallya on Saturday said that Kingfisher Airlines (KFA) collapsed due to bad government policies and higher oil prices.

KFA collapsed with oil at $140 per barrel and State sales tax on top Rupee devaluation No FDI Engine failures, Vijay Mallya tweeted, adding, KFA being the largest domestic Airline was the worst hit. Government bailed out Air India but did not bail out KFA. So much for favours".

Talking about loans, Mallya clarified that he begged for help. Not for loans.

Meanwhile slamming the media, Mallya asked, Before slamming me ask CBI and SEBI some tough questions on what proof or evidence they have to allege fraud.

You (media) are distorting facts for sensationalism. Do your own due diligence. Why don't CBI say what UB invested into KFA? he added.

TV anchors in India have become vociferous Public Prosecutors influencing public opinion. I only hope that our esteemed judiciary rise above, Mallya said.

"Loot""Gate" etc etc such innovative headlines to describe me without Judicial determination?? Fair and unbiased reporting?" he questioned.

In a recent move, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) on Wednesday barred Mallya and six others from trading in the securities market.
Former chief minister and leader of opposition in Himachal Pradesh, Prem Kumar Dhumal on Saturday criticized Congress government for neglecting health sector in the state, despite Centre granting adequate funds for the same.

Dhumal said Union Health Ministry had sanctioned over Rs.1500 crore for health sector in Himachal but still health services are in poor condition.

There are hundreds of vacancies of doctors and other staff in hospitals of the state which leads us to believe that Himachal government is failing to properly utilize the central grants, he said, adding or may be the government is satisfied with its abysmal performance.

The former chief minister said Union Health Minister J P Nadda has recently allotted Rs.30 crore for strengthening State Drug Regulatory Authority to improve health services in the state.

The state government should properly utilize the grants as the government had failed in even preparing Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for upgradation of facilities at IGMC Shimla, Tanda Medical College and Mandi Zonal Hospital, he added.

Dhumal said same is the case with state Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Ministry.

The Centre has sanctioned Rs.100 crore for MNREGA works but due to the lackadaisical approach, these had remained unutilized so far, he said.

In addition, the daily wages under MNREGA in neighbouring states of Punjab and Haryana is Rs.250, the government is still paying Rs.170 as daily wage to its workers in the state.

This is again in conflict with Congress partys manifesto as during assembly elections, the party had promised to pay a wage of Rs.200 to MNREGA workers in the state, he said.

The leader of opposition added this careless approach of the Congress government is proving costly to general public as they are not able to benefit from Central grants and schemes.

The Congress government seems to be misleading the general public of the state by making false announcements for political gains while people are bearing the brunt of inefficient governance, he added.
Chief Minister and ruling BJD president Naveen Patnaik on Friday asked his party leaders to take the message of Centre's negligence towards Odisha during campaign for the panchayat elections.

Patnaik said this while addressing the district and block-level poll observers of the BJD.

"Tell the people in rural areas on the issues relating River Mahanadi, Polavaram Dam, stoppage of funds for different welfare schemes and negligence towards backward and tribal dominated areas in the state," Patnaik said.

Keeping the target to secure maximum seats in Panchayati Raj Institutions, Patnaik said people should also be made aware on the "good works" done by the state government.

Party sources said as many as 126 poll observers and many senior leaders attended the meeting.

"The CM has asked to mobilise maximum people during the campaign and ensure that party candidates win with a big margin," said a senior leader.

The BJD has fielded candidates in all 851 Zilla Parishad seats going to the polls in five different phases from February 13.
Delhi Police on Saturday denied that it had received any fresh report from a medical panel that was tasked to examine the findings of a probe by Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and AIIMS into Sunanda Pushkar's mysterious death.

"We have not received any such report, so far, from the medical board," Deputy Commissioner of Police Ishwar Singh said.

Singh heads the Special Investigation Team into the death of Pushkar  wife of Congress leader Shashi Tharoor  whose body was found under mysterious circumstances in a luxurious Delhi hotel on January 17, 2014.

The medical board of four doctors from Delhi, Chandigarh and Puducherry was constituted in June last year and to provide final opinion on FBI and All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) reports on Pushkar's viscera.

There were reports that the SIT probing the death had received an "inconclusive" report two weeks ago from the medical board. But Singh denied the report, saying: "We are still waiting for the report by the medical board."

The police officer said that the probe panel was also awaiting Pushkar's Blackberry messenger transcript for any hints that would solve one of the high profile whodunit murder mysteries in India.

Pushkar's viscera samples were sent to the FBI lab in Washington in February 2015 to determine the kind of poison that killed her after an AIIMS medical board alleged that poisoning was the reason behind her death.

The AIIMS medical board had however did not specified the poisonous substance.

Head of the Forensic Department at AIIMS, Sudhir Gupta told IANS that by merely examining the documents, any "conclusive report" in Pushkar's case was not possible.

"It is not possible for a new panel to give conclusive report just by investigating the case on the basis of documents only," Gupta, who had performed Pushkar's autopsy along with two other doctors, said.

Gupta also raised question on the need of getting the case probed by another panel and said: "When we had already submitted the conclusive report after performing the autopsy of Sunanda Pushkar then what is the point of getting it investigated by another panel."

"This is just to twist the case and let people remain confused about Pushkar's death," Gupta said.
The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) suffered yet another severe jolt on Saturday with two of its senior leaders from Khemkaran quitting the party to join the Punjab Congress, just a week before the assembly elections.

Jasbir Singh Bhullar, son of former Punjab minister Prof Jagir Singh Bhullar and member of the SAD General Council, was welcomed into the Punjab Congress by party president Captain Amarinder Singh.

Captain Amarinder also hailed the entry of Jasbirs son, Rajbir Singh Bhullar, general secretary of Youth Akali Dal (YAD), into the Congress fold, saying the continuous exodus of senior leaders from Akali Dal indicated the total collapse of the party in Punjab.
Not much has changed for Mahira Khan. She is still the lithe, waif-like girl with the easy megawatt smile whose eyes grow big when she is excited. She still seems unsure of herself and second-guesses herself constantly. She still makes wishes when she passes through tunnels, believing that tunnels have the power to make her wishes come true. For all her exposure since and despite now being a mother to a seven-year-old, you can tell that she is still inherently shy.

Three days ago, she made her debut in Indian cinema, opposite possibly the biggest star of the subcontinent. We meet at an upmarket restaurant for lunch that we selected assuming it would be mostly empty. But the moment she walks in she runs into her former school principal and some of her former teachers. Later they  and at least four other groups of people come over to get selfies with her. She cannot refuse, she never once lets on that shes probably a bit tired of the routine. They cannot believe their luck. Thankfully the interruptions dont last very long.

I begin by asking her if she feels disappointed about Raees likely not releasing in Pakistan.

Of course, she shoots back. I want my country to see this. But if theres one thing Ive learnt over these two years its that there are things beyond ones control. I mean you can save a scene, you can fix things later in film but there are things that are out of your reach. You just cant do anything.

With the eruption of tensions between Pakistan and India, Mahira and fellow actors such as Fawad Khan and Ali Zafar who were forced to abandon future projects in India  suddenly fell quiet, perhaps understandably. I wonder what she really felt then. It was painful, is the only thing she will still venture.

But she waxes eloquent about the friendships she made across the border.

I was coming here and the new song is out and we have a group of friends (from the film crew) who send messages whenever something happens and everyone was sending messages and I had tears rolling down in the car. Again. For the tenth time! And my hairstylist sent me a message saying I think we should always say goodbye with tears because we always meet again when we do that. And I am so indebted to all of them, especially my director Rahul Dholakia and the producer Ritesh Sidhwani, who have stood by me even at the worst of times.

I cant just move on. Its my work. Yes Im grateful, but its something I have worked for! I also want to promote the film. I also want to be in an interview with Shah Rukh Khan talking about it. Why not? Why is it I get told that thats asking for too much? It isnt! It is my right. This was also my film.

I ask the inevitable question  so what was it like working with Shah Rukh Khan? She tries to deflect. Ask me something else; I have talked about it so much Ill say the same things.

So I ask her about his quirks. He is magic, honestly. He spoilt me for life. He used to tell me to do things this way; do it that way. At one point I asked him, am I not doing it right? He said, Look I am only telling you what I know, from my experience. You do it your way but all I want is when you see yourself on screen you dont come to me and say, why didnt you tell me! Other than that, hes so bloody smart.

Weve had amazing conversations. Its so much fun to talk to someone whos intelligent. Its not just about films, he can talk about anything! He was watching Narcos while we were shooting and he can talk about books and history Of course Ive always been a fan, she says.

Mahira changes gears. Look, everyone goes through things, everyone has a story. Thats why strangers are so interesting. I dont find a single human being boring. So its not about me as an isolated case, but I do feel my job is a unique one. That changes a lot of stuff. Youre going through whatever youre going through at home and then you have to get up and go to work. And what is your work? You have to bare your soul, give in to a character. So today your character might be happy because shes so in love but you might be going through the exact opposite. Youre surrendering to a feeling that doesnt exist right now in your headspace, your soul, your heart. But you have to do it.

I ask her if she sees a difference between being a star and an actor. She is dismissive of the question. This whole star versus actor debate I find very silly. Marlon Brando I think said, Youre as good as the role that you choose. Thats about it. Would I be who I am without a Khirad in Humsafar? Maybe not. I think every few decades the audience laps up somebody and makes them into a star. Thats all that happens. To analyse it is, I feel, a waste of time. But then she adds, My understanding is the day I start looking at myself as a star is the day I will die as an actor.

But what does she dream about now that shes hit the pinnacle of stardom? I need to start dreaming again, she says with her eyes brightening, This was the dream. I prayed for it in every namaaz of mine; in every under the tunnel wish. But yes, however small, I need to dream again.

Those are not stars in Mahira Khans eyes. They are dreams.

Dawn/ANN
Veteran actor Rishi Kapoor on Saturday lambasted the fringe group which vandalised the sets of "Padmavati" in Jaipur on Friday for allegedly "distorting history" about Chittor queen Rani Padmini and 14th century emperor Alauddin Khilji.

Bhansali was slapped and assaulted by Rajput Karni Sena workers who staged a protest at Jaigarh fort in Jaipur where he was shooting the film.

"Without knowing facts, without seeing the picture, you do a morcha and start hitting, what is this nonsense," an angry Kapoor said on the sidelines of Tata Steel Kolkata Literary Meet here.

"Is this the security we have in this country for filmmakers or artistes? Who's answerable to this? Tomorrow you start doing this with everybody. It will be impossible to make films. Who are they? Are they the caretakers of history," Kapoor fumed.

The entire Bollywood community has come down heavily on the incident with the likes of director Karan Johar, actors Farhan Akhtar and Alia Bhatt taking to Twitter to vent their ire.

In a video that went viral on social media, protesters were seen running amok, damaging cameras and other shooting equipment while raising slogans and hurling abuses in Hindi.

"If you are, then see the film and then make a judgement. How can you raise your hand, how can you take law in your hands? Who are these people (Rajput) Karni Sena or whoever they are. What right do they have to do that? You cannot take justice in your hands."

"There is a judiciary, let them decide what is right and what is wrong. There is a censor board who censors it before it comes to the people," the actor added.

In the aftermath of this, Bhansali and his crew have cancelled the shooting. Kapoor advised the revered director who recently churned out the superhit film "Bajirao Mastani" to drag the perpetrators to court.

"I read on Twitter he has cancelled the shoot. Who's going to pay your b***** is going to pay for all the expenses Just because of this nonsense, he had to cancel his actor's date. I say Sanjay Leela Bhansali should sue whatever that Karni (Sena workers)."
Batting for all-round development of Uttar Pradesh and wooing various sections of the society, the BJP on Saturday released its manifesto promising to waive off loans of small and marginal farmers and distributing laptops to the youth.

Releasing the manifesto here in the state capital Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Amit Shah said the Uttar Pradesh was left behind in the race for development.

"I appeal to the people to give us one opportunity and we promise to turn UP into a developed state," said Shah.

The party also promised to create a fund of Rs 150 crore for agricultural development in the next five years.

"Will distribute laptops to youth with 1 GB free internet if voted to power in UP," said Shah.


"Drugs, unemployment and above all, the (2015) desecration of Guru Granth Sahib are major issues," complained Bhupinder Singh, a young farmer.

By Harmeet Shah Singh: On a chilly January morning, residents nestle together under the shed of a makeshift podium as the rain pour down on their open-air public meeting.

They huddle around the speakers. Some sit cross-legged, some on chairs and some stand patiently as local leaders deliver long speeches attacking the state government.

Unlike rich pockets of metro cities, this prosperous village of Samrari in Jalandhar district is vibrantly active in election campaign. Almost every other family of this hamlet surrounded by lush-green fields has an NRI somewhere on the planet.

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Wednesday's turnout of Samrari's inhabitants for a political meeting on a cold winter morning suggested voters across the economic spectrum of Punjab's hinterlands have already mobilised for the February 4 general elections.

"Drugs, unemployment and above all, the (2015) desecration of Guru Granth Sahib are major issues," complained Bhupinder Singh, a young farmer. Singh comes from what is referred to as a committed Panthak vote bloc of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD).

His father and forefathers were supporters of the SAD since it came into being in 1920.

This bloc of the Panthaks is mostly composed of moderate, devout Sikhs who would regard the Shiromani Akali Dal as the guardian of their top religious institutions and sacred heritage.

Over the past years though, said Singh, his family severed its age-old bond with the SAD led by the Badal dynasty.

DRUG MENACE IN PUNJAB

Drug trade, he lamented, had peaked in Punjab. "And unemployment is pushing the youth to addiction," said the 30-year-old farmer, wearing a flowing beard and a small kirpan, the emblems of formally-initiated Sikhs called Amritdharis.

Angry with the Congress for Operation Blue Star and over 1984 massacre, Singh's family had no other choice but to back the SAD in 2012 despite what he called was mounting disaffection with the Akalis. But two years later, they discovered an alternative when Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party arrived in Punjab, he said.

Also read: Punjab assembly polls: Satire, spoof and the ridiculous big hit in elections

And numerous incidents of the desecration of Guru Granth Sahib in the Akali-governed state in 2015, added Singh, disillusioned his family completely with the SAD.

"If Guru Granth Sahib is not safe in Punjab, that too under the Akali government, what else is left to say," said Singh.

Some meters away, a veteran Akali, Sukhdev Singh Bhaur, could be seen campaigning under Kejriwal's AAP banner.

Bhaur, 60, is a former general secretary and a former acting-president of the SGPC, the top Sikh religious administration controlled by the Akalis. "The switch (to AAP) was not easy. It was like shedding my skin," he says.

Former SGPC general secretary Sukhdev Singh Bhaur, now an AAP leader, in conversation with India Today's Harmeet Shah Singh Former SGPC general secretary Sukhdev Singh Bhaur, now an AAP leader, in conversation with India Today's Harmeet Shah Singh

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Panthak leaders like Bhaur believe the Badals manipulated Sikhism's highest temporal authorities for pardoning Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Raheem in 2015. The Dera chief was accused of dressing up like Guru Gobind Singh in an advertisement.

Bhaur alleges he was granted religious pardon "without him apologising on his own for the blasphemy".

Sikh protests forced the clergy to reverse their remission back then, but the political damage appeared to have been done.

INCIDENTS OF DESECRATION

"There were more than 80 incidents of desecration the same year. Yet, there was no firm action. On the contrary, false allegations were levelled against innocent Sikhs," said Bhaur, echoing sentiments of various Sikh groups opposed to the Badals.

The ruling family denies the charges.

A month ahead of the 2017 vote, Kejriwal drove down to Bhaur's home in Banga and inducted him into his AAP.

"It was frustrating to remain in a party that couldn't safeguard Guru Granth Sahib," said the former Akali leader. He praised Kejriwal for his "vision" and "secular" approach.

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"He fully understands the issues - economic, social and cultural - which people of Punjab face," insisted Bhaur. "In particular, he has promised to me that the perpetrators of the desecration would be prosecuted if the Aam Aadmi Party forms the next government."

Also read: Kejriwal to India Today: Capt Amarinder Singh will lose Patiala seat, despite being Congress' CM-face

At village Dhahan near Banga, a young Sikh teacher in an Amritdhari attire stops by a field-side public meeting.

"After what happened in 2015, there's no way for us to vote for the Akalis. Backing the Congress is out of the question," he said, sitting on his cycle. "But don't you see there's an option now?" the man asked, pointing towards a large Kejriwal banner.

Up north in Amritsar, Kiranjot Kaur walks quietly into her party office. She's one of the key coordinators of Akali campaign in the Sikh religious centre, home to the Darbar Sahib (the Golden Temple), the holiest of the faith's spiritual shrines, and the Akal Takht.

But Kaur's legacy matters more than her canvassing for a party candidate in the holy city.

Kiranjot Kaur being honoured for her grandfather Master Tara Singh's contributions to Punjab. Photo: Kiranjot Kaur

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A face of the Sikh community on international religious forums, she's a granddaughter of Master Tara Singh. Born in 1885 near Rawalpindi, now in Pakistan, Singh was jailed for civil disobedience 14 times after he joined Mahatma Gandhi's "satyagraha" movement.

He evolved as one of the towering leaders of the Shiromani Akali Dal and the SGPC.

Singh, who died in 1967, is still remembered as a champion of Sikh political and religious rights. His granddaughter is a born Akali.

But as she stood along a busy Amritsar street on a dark, cloudy winter day, her eyes looked worried.

For someone whose political and ideological proclivities are rooted in her biology, Kaur admits the ground might have shifted beneath Punjab's grand, old party.

A former first woman general secretary of the SGPC, Kaur acknowledged her party leadership "messed up" in its handling of Sikh protests over the repeat attacks on Guru Granth Sahib and over the pardon to the Dera leader in 2015.

"The way the whole situation was handled by the government at that point in time, everything was messed up. There was a whole chain of events that should not have happened but happened. They left ramifications that we may have to face in this election," she remarked.

Also read: Punjab Assembly election: Why Malwa region holds the key?

Now, she fears the events of 2015 might have longer-term implications on the SAD - beyond the elections of 2017.

"I met some of the Sikhs who might not have been very political but who had this thing in their mind that they would never ever vote for a party other than the Shiromani Akali Dal. But now they are thinking whether or not they should vote for the Akali Dal. This, I think, is very damaging," she said. "The kind of core vote bank we had is somewhere offended."

She's also clear that leaders can no longer be imposed. They, Kaur says, are a product of public perception. "Leadership just grows. I don't think we can impose any kind of leadership," Kaur said when asked if she foresaw a change at the helm of the SAD post-elections.

"It is the people who have to decide their leader. It's for the people to decide what kind of leadership they want," she concluded.

Watch the video

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With barely a fortnight left for the Uttar Pradesh polls, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) plans to go full throttle with its campaigning after BJP chief Amit Shah releases the party manifesto here on Saturday, party sources said here.

A senior party leader requesting anonymity said, "The 2017 manifesto for Uttar Pradesh polls will completely focus on the overall development of the state."

"It will make other parties jittery because it will focus on all sectors," he said.

"The manifesto will also highlight the bad shape of the state in the last 15 years," he said.

According to the BJP leader, the party will raise the issue of slide in agricultural output in the state, which has now dipped to one per cent, and also highlight the problem of migration of people.

The BJP leader also described the alliance between Samajwadi Party and the Congress as the biggest "mistake" of Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav.

"This shows his desperation to gain power, but he committed the biggest mistake of his life by giving 105 seats to Congress," the BJP leader said.

"In 2012 Samajwadi Party emerged as the largest party in the state, but now with the alliance they are not in a position to emerge as the biggest party," he added.

"It shows Akhilesh's desperation for power," he said.

Elaborating why BJP didn't do aggressive campaigning in the last 20 days, he said: "We got very good traction after the (cross-LoC) surgical strikes and demonetisation in the state."

"But to maintain that potential was quite tough, so we will turn on the aggressive mode soon after the manifesto is released by Amit Shahji," he said.

The BJP leader also said that the party carried out a survey on the mood of people regarding the policies of the Narendra Modi government and said it was confident of coming to power in the state by emerging as the biggest party.

"The survey was carried out among 6.15 lakh people, and more across the country. The people supported it beyond our imagination," he said, adding that the survey was carried out between November 15 to December 31.

Explaining the reason why he expected people to vote for the BJP, he said: "The people have got an image of a credible government due to the central government's policies."

"So they shall vote for the BJP for the betterment of their livelihood in the long term, and they won't be carried away with short-term promises."

Uttar Pradesh will hold seven-phased assembly polls from February 11 to March 8.
Notwithstanding its alliance with Samajwadi Party, Congress will contest all the 10 Assembly seats of Amethi and Rae Bareli, the Lok Sabha constituencies represented by Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi, respectively, in Uttar Pradesh, the party announced here on Saturday.

"According to the party high command, Congress will contest all the 10 seats in Amethi and Rae Bareli," said Congress leader Sanjay Singh, who heads the campaign committee of the party.

Fielding of candidates in Amethi and Rae Bareli was one of the issues of contention between Congress and SP during their talks to forge the pre-poll alliance.

Singh claimed that Samajwadi Party had assured Congress that it (Congress) will contest on all the 10 seats in these Lok Sabha constituencies of the Congress vice president and the party president, respectively.

"Congress will contest on all the seats and the party is firm on this resolve," he stressed.

To a question on BJP fielding his estranged first wife Garima Singh from Amethi, Singh said the saffron party has "ignored its committed workers and given ticket to a candidate who is neither recognised nor has had any relation with the people of Amethi".

He went on to add that "Amethi has only one 'Rani' (queen) who is Amita Singh (his present wife) and had long been preparing ground for contesting from Amethi Assembly seat".

As per its alliance pact with SP, Congress will contest 105 out of 403 seats of the UP Assembly.
The Election Commission has expressed concern over the central government not honouring provisions of the Model Code of Conduct, and said it should "strictly adhere" to the commission's guidelines.

The EC in a letter to Cabinet Secretary P.K. Sinha on January 27 said that some ministries and government departments took decisions, which have the "effect of disturbing level playing fields of poll bound states", without referring the decisions to the panel.

"The Commission has noted that in certain cases, the Ministries/Departments took decisions, which have effect of disturbing level playing fields of poll bound states, without referring the matter to the Commission, particularly by NITI Aaayog, Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Finance," the EC said in the letter.

The EC also asked the Cabinet Secretary to issue "necessary instructions" to all concerned in this matter to all ministries and departments to "strictly adhere" to the commission's guidelines.
Union Minister M Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday said the aim of the NDA Government is to shift financial transactions on Jan Dhan, Aadhar and Mobile (JAM) platforms all over the country in the next two to three years.

"There should be no need for people to meet any officials for their work. All the amounts pertaining to Government schemes should be credited to their accounts without any hindrance. This would be a revolutionary change. I am confident that JAM will become a reality in two to three years," Naidu said at BJP party workers meeting here.

"Once it becomes reality it would become a big (financial) revolution in the country. Corruption will be reduced. And also diversion (of Government schemes) will also be reduced. Dilution (of the schemes) will also be reduced," Naidu said at the meeting.

He said with digital payment system in place, employers should credit salaries of their employees through digital means which would nullify anomalies if any.

"The biggest beneficiary of the digital transfer of funds will be the working class. Those who claim to be champions of working class are opposing the government move.

You should take this message to people," he said mocking at Left Parties and Congress.

He said Opposition parties have decided to oppose all the moves being launched by the Government despite merits in them.

He admitted that there were some problems in the initial days of the note-ban period. But people understood the issues and cooperated with the Government.

He exuded confidence that BJP will be winning in the Assembly elections of UP, Uttarakhand, Goa and Punjab.

Referring to some survey reports, he said 62 per cent of the country s population wants Narendra Modi to be Prime Minister next time as well.

The Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting said the Centre supported 'Jallikattu' in Tamil Nadu as they respect traditional art which are performed with some limits.
Five soldiers were trapped after their snow tracks caved on Saturday near the Line of Control in north Kashmir's Kupwara district.

The incident comes just days after two avalanches hit a military post and a patrol along the Line of Control, killing 15.

Police sources said five soldiers of 56 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) were trapped under snow and a rescue operation was on to save them.

The RR party was on routine counter insurgency duties when the mishap occurred, the sources said.

Kashmir has seen heavy snow this week and authorities had warned of the "high danger" of avalanches. Power and communication lines are also down in some areas.

Officials evacuated dozens of residents from high-risk areas after authorities issued an avalanche warning in many parts of the region.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Amit Shah on Saturday said efforts will be made to ensure that Ram temple is constructed at Ayodhya.

Efforts will be made to ensure that Ram temple is constructed under constitutional provisions, Shah said as he released the partys manifesto for the Uttar Pradesh assembly polls.

He further said that the BJP will form teams at district levels to check "exodus" of people due to communal tensions.

Shahs comment has come days after a similar statement was given by UP BJP chief Keshav Prasad Maurya assuring that a Ram temple will come up in Ayodhya.

However, a complaint against Maurya was lodged by the Congress with the Election Commission for flouting the instructions laid down by the poll panel.

Furthermore, Shah attacked the ruling Samajwadi Party (SP) accusing it of siphoning off funds granted by the Centre and particularly targeted state Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav.

UP has been plundered by SP and BSP (Bahujan Samajwadi Party) for 15 years. In the race for development, UP has been left behind, Shah said.

Centre sanctioned Rs.1 lakh crore to UP but no development is seen on ground. Akhilesh Yadav will have to answer for problems faced by state where ruling party goons have grabbed land, he added.

Merely entering into alliance will not hoodwink people, Shah said further as he mocked the Congress-SP alliance.

The BJP chief also said that his party was set to get two-third majority in the state election.

BJP will form government in Uttar Pradesh with two-third majoritiy. We have come with a pledge to transform the state, said Shah.

Uttar Pradesh will hold seven-phased assembly polls from February 11 to March 8.

(With inputs from agencies)
Bodies of three soldiers from Uttar Pradesh, who were killed in an avalanche in the Kashmir Valley, are scheduled to arrive home later on Saturday, officials said.

The three soldiers  Ajit Singh, Vijay Shukla and Azad Singh Yadav who hailed from Azamgarh, Pratapgarh and Farukkhabad districts, were killed in the avalanche in Gurez sector of Bandipora.

Elaborate arrangements were being made to take the bodies of the slain soldiers to their native villages, an official said.

At least 15 soldiers were killed in snow-triggered tragedies since Tuesday in Jammu and Kashmir.
Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi on Saturday said if the Congress was voted to power in Punjab, it will introduce strong laws to fight the drug menace in the poll bound state.

Four years back when I had said that four years back that nearly 70 per cent of youth in Punjab are affected by drugs, Badals made fun of me but now everybody is saying it, Rahul Gandhi said at a public rally in Jalalabad.

If the Congress is voted to power, the Amarinder Singh government will bring in strong laws against drugs, he added.

The Gandhi scion also attacked Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) convener and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal saying that he was dreaming of becoming the chief minister of Punjab.

Kejriwal ji wants to leave Delhi and become the CM of Punjab but Punjab needs a CM who belongs to Punjab, he said.

The AAP has emerged as major contender in Punjab, where traditionally the fight has always been between the SAD-BJP alliance and the Congress. AAPs entry has made it a triangular contest for the first time.
Sisters and brothers of America. These were the opening words of Swami Vivekananda as he addressed the opening session of the Parliament of Religions in Chicago. His speech was greeted with almost deafening applause from the 7000-strong audience. He thanked Parliament as the Mother of a Religion which has taught the world both tolerance and universal acceptance (Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam). The profound concept of Advaita and Universal religion was presented to the West with the message  As the different streams, having their sources in different places, all mingle their water in the sea.

Swamiji had criticised those who believed that man was a sinner and he had proclaimed repeatedly the need for realisation of being and divinity that were already inherent in man. In his paper on Hinduism he had forcefully stated: Yes, the Hindu refuses to call you sinners. Ye are the children of God, the sharers of immortal bliss, holy and perfect beings. Ye divinities on earth-sinners? It is a sin to call a man so; it is a standing libel on human nature. Vivekananda believed that Blood and sword are not for the Hindu whose religion is based on the law of love. Man is to become divine by realising the divine  Man is not travelling from error to truth but from lower truth to higher truth. Some of the very greatest of them (Rishis) were women.

In a talk on Religion not the crying need of India, he told the audience, Brethren of America the crying need of the East is not religion. We have more than enough religion; what they want is bread, but they are given stone. It is an insult to a suffering man dying of hunger to preach to him metaphysics  send missionaries to them to teach them metaphysical nonsense.

At the plenary session, Swamiji was most eloquent when he said: I came here to seek aid for my impoverished people, and I fully realised how difficult it was to get help for heathens from Christians in a Christian land. If anybody dreams of the exclusive survival of his own religion and the destruction of the others, I pity him from the bottom of my heart and point out to him that upon the banner of every religion will soon be written in spite of resistance Help and not Fight. Assimilation and not Destruction. Harmony and peace and not Dissension!

His presentation at the Parliament of Religions is of paramount significance in his plans for the regeneration of India. And the message is relevant to this day. He called for the setting up of centres of spirituality for moral, economic and social uplift of the people. Today this is the crying need for the self-seeking political leaders as well as the intelligentsia and the common people to reform themselves in serving the country selflessly, and also to rise and live up to the ideal of bahujan sukhayo bahugana hitaya.

The task of the leader is to work for the welfare of the poor, the Daridra Narayan and to harmonise religion and practical spirituality without fanaticism, selfishness, persecution, untouchability and corruption and to propagate honesty and integrity. India would become a much improved nation. He propagated work as worship. He wrote to Swami Akhandananda from America work, work, work  I care for nothing else, work, work, work, even unto death. Those who are weak must make themselves great workers, great heroes. Every action that helps a being manifest its divine nature is good, and every action that retards is evil. To Rakhal (Swami Brahmananda) he wrote. Far greater help must be given to the poor and downtrodden, the ignorant, let them be your God, Man is God, he is Narayana. Vivekananda was pragmatic and advocated that we have to bring technology from the West while they would learn spirituality from India.

Swamiji was most emphatic on the emancipation and education of women. He epitomized the Holy Mother Sarada Devi as the divine ideal of modern Indian womanhood as Shakti and Saraswati. It was with her blessings and inspiration that he finally decided to embark on his mission to the West. Swamiji forcefully said that only if Indian women are educated and treated with respect and reverence, India could move ahead. Deeply significant and particularly relevant are Swamiji's words of prophetic wisdom as manifest in his speeches at the Parliament of Religions and in his plan for campaigning in the midst of the quagmire of Indian society and polity. Significant too is his clarion call to Arise, Awake and Stop Not Till the Goal is reached. We the people of India have to respond to this call.

With considerable regret, Swami Vivekananda had once remarked that Sometimes I feel a desire to sell the (Belur) Math and everything and distribute the money to the poor during the plague epidemic in Calcutta. He told his disciple that your duty is to save the poor and miserable, without distinction of caste and colour and you have no need to think about the results. Who serves Jiva serves God indeed. He thus conveyed Sri Ramakrishnas message  Shiva jnane Jiva seva (Serve all beings knowing them as Shiva).

Swamiji had told his disciple that true spirituality meant a feeling of misery and restlessness till no man or animal, remains hungry for a meal. Abiding by the teachings of Sri Ramakrishna he coined the motto of the Ramakrishna Mission as Aatmano Mokshartam Jagadhitaya cha (Strive for ones spiritual liberation and do good to the world). Our leaders and our people have to live up to this ideal.
Sucha Singh Chhotepur has created a buzz in the political corridors of poll-bound Punjab. First he raised the banner of revolt against Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener Arvind Kejriwal for allegedly selling party tickets to undeserving and tainted candidates. Forced to leave AAP after the party accused him of collecting money from volunteers after promising them tickets or posts if an AAP government was formed in the state, Chhotepur floated his own Apna Punjab Party (APP) which claims to be a regional party catering to the interests of Punjabis.

Even as the Congress, Shiromani Akali Dal, Bharatiya Janta Party and AAP are leaving no stone unturned to woo voters, Chhotepur's APP is not far behind when it comes to making promises to the people of Punjab. In an interview, Chhotepur describes the motives behind his party and its plan of action. Excerpts

Q: Your party (APP) claims to be different from other parties on the ground that workers don't strive for tickets.

A: Well this world is a double-edged sword and we have been running the party on the ethics on which it has been formed. We have always followed an agenda that no corrupt, characterless person, land grabber or police tout will be promoted in the party. We are a regional party which can serve the state's people better than counterparts like Congress, AAP and SAD. Congress itself is facing intense infighting and most of their key decisions are being taken by the Delhi leadership. Similar is the case with AAP, whose chief is already facing charges like drug abuse and corruption from his own workers. SAD has also crossed all limits in the past nine years while leading the state into a debt crisis.

Q: The Satluj Yamuna Link (SYL) is a hot issue these days. What is your take?

A: Yes it is and will remain an issue as a large number of farmers have been affected. We are going to file a public interest litigation (PIL) over the SYL issue in the apex court in coming days. Neither Congress nor SAD-BJP government did anything to sort out this issue during their tenure. Punjab CM Parkash Singh Badal sat mum over SYL for the past nine years and now, suddenly, he is promising to give farmers land back.

Q: Your party is new and has just got a symbol. Do you think people will recognise you in such a short span?

A: Yes, the party is new but the candidates who have been allotted tickets are renowned and credible faces in their respective constituencies. We have allotted tickets to highly qualified candidates having MBA, PhD degrees, etc. Many of them have worked excellently in their respective fields along with social service. People have shown their faith in our candidates and they are looking for a change this time. We have enough time to get in touch with the people of each and every district and block.

Q: In case you get some seats, with which major party will you be happy to have an alliance?

A: It is too premature to comment on this issue. We are going to contest all 117 assembly seats and we already have an alliance with Akhand Akali Dal. Also, we would not mind the induction of like-minded people. I am sure we are going to register a remarkable win and will come out with a majority.

Q: Is there any chance of a tie-up with your previous ally (AAP)?

A: No, the party has dashed the hopes of many people. Punjabis have never allowed an outsider to rule. The state's people are capable of taking care of their land. I had joined AAP because I was given an assurance that workers from Punjab would be given preference. Later, what happened is well known. Yes, we welcome those who want to join APP after leaving AAP.

Q: There are no big names in your party. How it is going to affect APP?

A: It is not mandatory that a person who is financially strong or a prominent face is a big gun in politics. As I said earlier our candidates are capable of registering a comprehensive win. It hardly matters.

Q: Recently incidents of shoe hurling on the CM and stone pelting at the deputy CM's convoy were reported. What is your take on it?

A: I strongly condemn this. It should not happen at any level of politics. If someone has any issue with political leaders they must express their anger through the ballot. Such activities should never be encouraged. I am sure the people have anger against the ruling SAD-BJP government, but people should follow the path of democracy. They should wait for 4 February to show their anger through the ballot.

Q: Demonetisation is troubling the common public. How it is going to affect the Punjab polls?

A: There is no doubt the common man is badly affected by the move. The decision is good but taken in haste. It should have been implemented in a planned manner. Whether it will affect the Punjab polls or not will be witnessed in the days to come. It may be a matter of concern for those who have black money. Our party candidates are clean and honest so we are least bothered about demonetisation's effects during polls.
Police claim that 90 per cent of all registered weapons have been deposited with them, raising questions over how the recent crimes were carried out.

By Manjeet Sehgal: Punjab has witnessed two gang-related killings within a period of seven days. The crimes took place despite the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct in the poll-bound state. Under the code, licensed weapons must be surrendered to the police until the elections, with exemptions being granted only to VVIPs.

The first gang-related killing took place on January 21 in Jalandhar, when Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley was in the city to release the BJP's poll manifesto. Investigations have revealed that the victim, a gangster named Pancham, was associated to a Congress candidate contesting the Assembly election.

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The gang under the scanner for shooting Pancham dead is headed by Gursharan Bhalu and is believed to be associated with a BJP candidate. Pancham's family has accused the BJP of playing a role in Pancham's murder.

The second murder was that of Kuldeep Singh alias Keepa, a 28-year-old, who was shot dead by a rival gang in Moga on Friday. Police say the gangster was standing at a bus stop when two unknown motorcycle-borne men pumped bullets into his chest. Interestingly, the slain gangster's wife is a police constable and is posted in the same town. Keepa, who was facing a number of criminal cases, was out on a bail at the time of his murder.

Also read: EC transfers 21 police officers including 6 SSPs in Punjab

POLICE IN THE DOCK FOR GANG WARS

Accused of sheltering the criminal gangs inside and outside jails, the Punjab police is in the dock once again over the recent murders. The police claim that 90 per cent of all registered weapons have been deposited with them. The remaining 10 per cent, officials say, are weapons that belong to VVIPs.

This claim and the recent murders raise the question, which officials have avoided answering, that are illegal weapons present in Punjab or are criminal elements using guns registered to VVIPs?

The Election Commission too has taken notice. "Most of the licensed weapons have been deposited by their owners. The percentage is more than 90 per cent. Some categories of VVIPs have been exempted from depositing the weapons due to security reasons. We are investigating the gangster killings," Chief Electoral Officer (Punjab) Vijoy Kumar Singh said.

Also read: Punjab assembly polls: Satire, spoof and the ridiculous big hit in elections

PUNJAB'S POLITICIAN-GANGSTER NEXUS The politico-gangster nexus is not new in Punjab. There are 57 active gangs in the state and 427 gangsters are currently roaming free. More than 500 gangsters and dreaded criminals are in the jails.

Gangster-turned-politician, Jaswinder Singh Rocky, who had contested the 2012 assembly election, was shot dead in May last year. Gangster Kulvir Naruana meanwhile joined the Shiromani Akali Dal in 2014 and Harjinder Sngh Bittu, accused of providing shelter to gangsters, recently joined the Congress.

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Also read: India Today-Axis My India opinion poll: Punjab poll big takeaways

--- ENDS ---
Brain drain seems to be an obstacle to Malaysias development. Moves by Malaysians leaving home to seek greener pasture have never been stopped.

I have a relative. A young man in his early 30s. He joined an e-commerce company holding a masters degree. As an information technology engineer, his office is located in Petaling Jaya, Selangor. In 2015, his e-commerce company, despite achieving outstanding results, announced relocation of its (IT) engineering department to Singapore, leaving the operations of marketing and sales department in Malaysia.

It is learned that after some careful considerations, the company, in sourcing for greater scale for development and better prospects, decided to relocate to Singapore as the island is more suitable for expansion of digital business while the network environment in Malaysia is insufficient to support the companys expansion plans. As the companys plan matched with his intention to seek greener pastures in Singapore, my relative decided to join the companys relocation by overriding his earlier plan.

Moves by such companies to relocate their core departments to Singapore bringing with them the Malaysian talents indicate two types of brain drain scenario in Malaysia:

1.Corporate leaders opt to relocate capital, technology and experts to other countries after comparing the business environment, economic situation and infrastructure with Singapore. The criteria in Malaysia are relatively unfavourable to business development.

2.People look for greener pastures. Malaysians used to think that there are better opportunities overseas. For the sake of better income and future, Malaysians are ready to pack up and work overseas any time.

Malaysian talents are found throughout the world. Right from members of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) to Singapore, you can find Malaysians.

Malaysians are found in almost every sector in Singapore from information technology, medicine and research to business. Singapore has never stopped attracting the best expertise from various countries including Malaysia.

Such a scenario is a norm in globalisation. But comparing the number of Malaysians working and settling down overseas and the population in the country, the figure can be huge. World Banks 2014 report on Malaysia said that 308,834 of Malaysians with high technology skills migrated overseas in 2013, while Malaysias population is more than 30 million.

The numbers of those migrating overseas when compared with the number of low technology skilled foreign workers brought in to cater for various industries, reflects the fact that capable and skilled Malaysians are leaving the country.

Foreign workers are relied on to complete 3D tasks  the ones that are dirty, dangerous and difficult.

Another issue is that when large-scale foreign funds are brought into Malaysia, they do not offer technology transfer or change the working culture in Malaysia. And hence, this is not commensurate in terms of contribution and reward. The inflow of foreign funds does not help Malaysia depart from the middle income trap or achieve the target of becoming a developed country.

Malaysians who leave the country are opportunists looking for better salary packages, fair promotion chances and stable living environment. They retain their Malaysian citizenship.

But after settling down overseas, the number of Malaysians giving up their citizenship seems on the rise.

Depreciation of the ringgit and slide in crude oil prices have hit the Malaysian economy. Many Malaysians, including the rich ones are leaving the country. There is hope that the economic growth in Malaysia will recover this year. Ringgit may also rebound from its poor performance in 2016. However, all this is mere speculations. Without feeling the practical change, Malaysians would still opt to work overseas.

Social and cultural factors are leading young people to opt for working overseas. Many young people settle down overseas after their graduation. They enjoy the freedom and openness. Declining freedom in society and religious and racial issues being politicised prompts them not to return home.

The government takes a serious view of the severity of brain drain and has set up Talent Corp to attract talent and encourage them to return home. In the past four years, the agency successfully attracted 3,600 Malaysians home through its Returning Experts Programme.

However, comparing this with the figure of Malaysians leaving the country, this is just a drop in the ocean.

Under the current economic and political environment, Talent Corp needs to have a more convincing and attractive package for overseas Malaysians to return home.

However, instead of convincing them to return from overseas, how about changing the approach by retaining Malaysians who are still studying and working in the country?

Some experts have said that because many universities in United Kingdom, Australia and even China have set up branch campuses in Malaysia, education opportunities would a play significant role in reversing the trend of brain drain. Talent Corp should work on students in such branch campuses to retain them with sincerity. They should also include those foreigners who are currently studying or working in such universities.

It is time for the Malaysian government to pay more attention to university students in the country who are graduating soon. By assisting them to experience fairness in job opportunities and remuneration packages, the government will show genuine concern for their future.

This would be more effective compared to various incentives offered by Talent Corp.

Starting this year, the Najib administration has launched the 2050 Transformation Plan TN50, to encourage youth of all races in the country to shape Malaysia with their outstanding thinking in the next 30 years.

The prospect of employment opportunities is included in the plan. It is believed that with the launch of the transformation plan, more young people would participate in nation-building actively.

This would also help to attract more talent based overseas to return home while retaining bright locals and encouraging them to contribute to the country.

The writer is Leader Writer, Sin Chew Daily, Malaysia. This is a series of columns on global affairs written by top editors and senior writers from members of the Asia News Network and published in newspapers across the region.
Fridays disclosure on the proliferation of nuclear technology in North Korea is unlikely to be breaking news when contextualised with the almost routine muscle-flexing of President Kim Jong-un.

Nonetheless, the latest revelation is bound to dominate the meetings that have been scheduled during the new US Defence Secretarys visits to Japan and South Korea next week. It is fairly obvious that the Korean question ranks high in the new dispensations wider canvas.

The government in Pyongyang, secretive even in normal circumstances, is said to have resumed operation of a reactor at its main nuclear site. The report must seem to be still more alarming as this site is used to produce plutonium for its nuclear weapons programme. Significantly enough, the data has been advanced by Washingtons 38 North project whose exclusive remit is to monitor matters North Korean. The timing is crucial in the overall construct. It has crafted its report on the basis of developments in the North since 18 January  two days before Donald Trumps inaugural.

At the threshold, therefore, the new President has an almost readymade foreign policy agenda to address, if not a major crisis to countenance. Aside from the US, the report cannot but unnerve South Korea and Japan as well. Not least because it records that the country is gearing up to restart the reactor at Yongbyon. Furthermore, the Kim regime is said to have unloaded spent fuel rods for reprocessing to produce additional plutonium for its nuclear weapons stockpile.

While the power level of the reactor is as yet uncertain, it is generally presumed that it may be considerable. The renewed technological build-up in the North explains the Trump administrations anxiety to strengthen relations with Japan and South Korea in the immediate perspective.

It is open to question whether the diplomatic counter-mobilisation will serve the cause of nuclear deterrence on the part of Pyongyang. The outlook remains ever so fogbound as North Korea has maintained its nuclear and missile programmes in violation of several bouts of international sanctions.

President Kims New Year speech was a signal of intent when he declared to his domestic audience that his country was close to test-launching an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).
The celebrated thesis that it is low aim, not failure, that is a crime would resonate powerfully through the recent exhortations of the President. In what could well be his final Republic Day message to citizens, Pranab Mukherjee did not shy away from reiterating his insistence that the well-being of the nation was dependent on upholding the pluralism and diversity of the social fabric, as enshrined in the Constitution.

Though aware that some sections of the political leadership were uncomfortable with the concept of secularism and equality, the President opted against pulling any punches on Wednesday evening. True there was a degree of the repetitive to what he said: it served to underscore the commitment to the values his high office requires him to promote.

Sure Mukherjee will have his critics, some might even pick holes with his conduct before being elevated to the crest of Raisina Hill, but that only confirms how he has grown with the job and laid down the standards against which his successors will be evaluated.

Maybe those critics would argue it was during his tenure in Rashtrapati Bhawan that were corroded many of the concepts and values that the Founding Fathers had cherished. But none dare accuse Mukherjee of not persevering to instill in our netas that leadership brings with it a degree of responsibility to make life better ~ for even those who might not have voted for them.

It is my firm conviction that Indias pluralism and her social, cultural, linguistic and religious diversity are our greatest strength. Multiple views, thoughts and philosophies have competed with each other peacefully for centuries in our country.

wise and discerning mind is necessary for democracy to flourish. More than the unison of ideas, a healthy democracy calls for conformity to the values of tolerance, patience and respect for others. That was not a goody-goody sermon, but a caution against the nation casting off its moral moorings. We have to work harder because our pluralistic culture and tolerance are still being put to test by vested interests.

Reason and moderation should be our guide in dealing with such situations. We have to keep at bay the dark forces of terrorism. These forces have to be dealt with firmly and decisively.

Forces inimical to our interests cannot be allowed to grow.

Mukherjee will be making another major speech when he opens the budget session of Parliament a few days hence. It would be premature to speculate on what he might say, yet it would be surprising if he struck another purple patch.

The Presidents Address to Parliament is a government-approved document. On Wednesday he spoke from his heart.
Exactly five days after the spectacular march in Washington against Donald Trump's assumption of office, the 45th US President has cracked the whip. There are two facets to Wednesday's presidential decree to confront the issue of immigration in a country built by migrants.

Indeed, the population construct has been the striking feature of American history. The first item on the new agenda is to construct the Mexico Wall; the other is to impose a check at the immigration counters to entry from the seven  to begin with?  predominantly Muslim countries, notably Syria, Iraq, Iran, Libya. Sudan, Somalia, and Yemen. On closer reflection, he has targeted the volatile Afro-Arab bloc that has been in ferment for the past six years.

His policy on Mexico would appear to have hit the bumps at the threshold, however. Its President, Enrique Pena Nieto, has declined to visit the US to meet Trump next week as expected by the White House. Furthermore, Mexico has refused to bear the cost of the Wall, conveying the message that it was presumptuous on the part of Trump to sign the order, and eventually forward the bill across the porous southern border in Tijuana.

Has homeland security floundered on the rock of reckless diplomacy? In the greater scheme of things, America could face a human rights crisis in the wake of the decidedly xenophobic immigration orders. The decision on the Wall, almost coinciding with the inaugural, and the withdrawal of funding to sanctuary cities, notably San Francisco and San Diego (bordering Tijuana), points to a long-term move to replace the so-called catch and release border policy with mandatory detention.

Arguably, the other compulsion to act with exceptionally urgent despatch was to emit a signal to those who had organised the massive anti-Trump march on 20 January, the day of his inaugural.

The President is now effectively at war with undocumented migrants inside the US and those who attempt to cross the southern border without paperwork.

Theoretically, the policy cannot perhaps be faulted. Yet the executive orders that envisage a dramatic reversal of immigration policy run counter to UN reservations and the opposition articulated by human rights groups. The in-house challenge therefore will be no less forbidding.

The order to erect a Wall across an additional 1,200 miles of the US southern border is bound to meet with stiff opposition when Congress is lobbied into funding the multibillion-dollar construction project. By the homeland security's own admission, the Wall will have limited effectiveness in deterring entry.

Misgivings that the proposal to withdraw funding to hundreds of sanctuary cities, which offer protection to undocumented migrants, will countenance legal opposition are not wholly unfounded. Trump has seemingly overlooked the repercussions in the flurry of executive action.
French President Francois Hollande on Saturday urged Europe to be "firm" in its response to new US President Donald Trump, who a day earlier called Britain's exit from the bloc a "wonderful thing".

"When there are statements from the US president about Europe and when he talks about Brexit being a model for other countries, I think we must respond," Hollande told reporters the sidelines of a summit of southern EU nations in Lisbon.

"When he adopts protectionist measures, which could destabilise economies not just in Europe but the economies of the main countries of the world, we have to respond.

"And when he refuses the arrival of refugees, while Europe has done its duty, we have to respond," he added.

"We must affirm our positions and then engage in a firm dialogue on what we think", with a goal towards solving global problems, the French president said.

Trump is due to speak Saturday with Hollande, as well as German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

He has rattled America's traditional European allies with a range of radical policy plans.

Trump has called NATO "obsolete", announced he would rip up a planned transatlantic trade plan and supported Britain's move to leave the EU, praising the decision during Friday's meeting with British Prime Minister Theresa May.

On Friday he also signed a sweeping executive order to suspend the arrival of refugees and impose tough controls on travellers from seven Muslim countries.
Google's India-born Chief Executive Sundar Pichai on Saturday critcised US President Donald Trump's executive order suspending the entry of people from Muslim-majority countries to the United States and stressed its negative influence on US attractiveness for foreign talent.

Pichai suggested that the ban could affect at least 187 Google employees as the Internet search giant ordered its travelling staff to return to the United States.

"We're upset about the impact of this order and any proposals that could impose restrictions on Googlers and their families, or that could create barriers to bringing great talent to the US," The Wall Street Journal quoted Pichai as saying in an e-mail to staff.

"It's painful to see the personal cost of this executive order on our colleagues," he added.

On Friday, Trump signed an executive order blocking from entering the United States all Syrian refugees until the adequate changes are made to the Refugee Admission Program (USRAP) and suspending the entry for all nationals of Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen for 90 days.

"Our first order of business is to help Googlers who are affected," he assured his staff, urging them to reach out to Google's global security team if they were abroad and needed help.

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg also expressed his concern over the order. "We need to keep this country safe, but we should do that by focusing on people who actually pose a threat," he wrote on his Facebook page on Friday.

Immigrants make up much of the workforce in Silicon Valley, including many executive roles, and the tech industry has long advocated for more open immigration laws in the US, saying they need more skilled foreigners to fill technical jobs, the WSJ added.

Earlier on Saturday, thousands of academics, including 11 Nobel Laureates, signed a petition against the immigration ban calling it discriminatory and detrimental to the country's national interests.

Trump's order means that thousands of citizens from seven Muslim-majority countries may not be allowed to board flights bound for the US  even if they hold "green card" (permanent residents' permit).

Trump said the measure would "keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the US". But rights groups said there is no link between Syrian refugees in the US and terrorism.

According to the BBC, there were already reports of travellers from the countries targeted being turned away as they tried to board flights to the US.

Some Republicans welcomed Trump's announcement, including the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Paul Ryan, who said it was "time to re-evaluate and strengthen the visa vetting process".
US President Donald Trump has said he does not know his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, but getting along with him would be good for both the countries.

"I don't know Putin, but if we can get along with Russia, that's a great thing. It's good for Russia, it's good for us," Trump told Fox News.

"We go out together and knock the hell out of ISIS, because that's the real sickness, you know the whole ISIS thing is the real sickness," he said.

"But if we get along with Russia and other  not just we should get along with everybody if we can. Now, in some cases you won't be able to but we've got to try," Trump said in response to a question.

Trump is scheduled to talk over phone with Putin.
Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani student activist and Nobel Peace laureate, said she was "heartbroken" by Donald Trump's order on refugees and urged the US president not to abandon the world's "most defenseless."

"I am heartbroken that today President Trump is closing the door on children, mothers and fathers fleeing violence and war," said the 19-year-old, shot in the head by the Taliban in 2012 after publicly advocating education for girls in her home country.

"In this time of uncertainty and unrest around the world, I ask President Trump not to turn his back on the world's most defenseless children and families," she added in a statement just moments after Trump signed the decree.

Yousafzai is the youngest ever recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, which she shared in 2014 with India's Kailash Satyarthi, a fellow education activist.

Now living in England, she made a remarkable recovery after undergoing medical treatment and has traveled the world as a campaigner.

"I am heartbroken that America is turning its back on a proud history of welcoming refugees and immigrants  the people who helped build your country, ready to work hard in exchange for a fair chance at a new life," she said.

The decree signed by Trump was entitled: "Protection of the nation from foreign terrorist entry into the United States."

The White House did not immediately make the wording public, but a draft text leaked to US media said it would suspend the entire US refugee resettlement program for at least 120 days while tough new vetting rules are established.

In addition, it specifically bars Syrian refugees from the United States indefinitely, or until Trump decides that they no longer pose a threat.

"I am heartbroken that Syrian refugee children, who have suffered through six years of war by no fault of their own, are singled out for discrimination," said Yousafzai.

She named a friend who had fled wars in Somalia, Yemen and Egypt to study in the United States, where she had hoped to be reunited with her sister.

"Today her hope of being reunited with her precious sister dims," she said.
Prominent Pakistani academic and human rights activist Salman Haider, who went missing earlier this month from Islamabad, is "fine and safe" and has returned home, his brother Zeeshan Haider confirmed to Dawn.

However, he did not divulge further details.

A professor of Fatima Jinnah University, Haider, went missing on January 6, following which a report was registered at the Lohi Bher police station by his wife. Police found the professor's car from Koral Chowk but did not receive any information about him.

Haider, who has been a vocal opponent of religious extremism and the Pakistani authorities' abuse of opposition activists, was reported missing from Islamabad on January 8. His disappearance led to an online campaign for his safe return.

Earlier, social media activists Waqas Goraya and Asim Saeed disappeared from Lahore on January 4, Ahmed Raza Naseer went missing from Sheikhupura on January 7 while Salman Haider vanished from Islamabad on January 6.

The others who have vanished were critical of organised religion, the influence of clerics in Pakistan and the country's powerful military on social media.

Haider was reported missing after he failed to return home on the night of January 6. That night, his wife had received a text message from his number, telling her the location of his car and where to recover it from.

Police said the FIR was registered on the basis of a complaint lodged by his brother Zeeshan.

In 2014, when sectarian killings were rife, Haider had penned a poem titled Kafir, which quickly went viral on social media. The poem critiqued the intolerance prevailing in the country and quickly garnered critical acclaim.

After his disappearance, hundreds protested in major cities in Pakistan, calling for the activists' safe return. Relatives and rights groups allege that the country's powerful Inter-Services Intelligence agency was behind the disappearances as part of a larger crackdown on dissent.

No group had claimed responsibility for the abductions.
No one else from the Russian side is planned to join a phone call between Russian President Vladimir Putin and his US counterpart Donald Trump on Saturday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Sputnik.

"It is not planned," Peskov said. The talks between the Russian and US leaders are scheduled for 12 pm local time on Saturday. (5 pm GMT).

Both the leaders are likely to discuss areas of joint US-Russian interest, including cooperation on counterterrorism.

According to the White House, US Vice-President Mike Pence will join the conversation.

Ahead of the conversation with Putin, Trump will hold telephone talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and German Chancellor Angela Merkel, while the calls with French President Francois Hollande and Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull are planned after the conversation with the Russian president.
By Press Trust of India: New Delhi, Jan 29 (PTI) Winding up his tenure in New Delhi, US Ambassador to India Richard Verma recently hosted a dinner here attended by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju and Prime Minister of the Tibetan government-in-exile Lobsang Sangay, a move that has raised objections in China.

The dinner was hosted by Verma on January 15 for his visiting friend and Hollywood actor Richard Gere, in what may signal prominence to the Tibet issue in international fora. The high-profile event was also attended by officials from both India and the US, besides a few Tibetan leaders.

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Rijiju, Minister of State for Home Affairs, tweeted about the January 15 event yesterday along with a picture showing Sangay and Gere among others. "Nice meeting my dear friend Richard Gere again. Thank you HE Richard Verma for a wonderful dinner & great tenure as USA Ambassador to India," Rijiju tweeted. "Both of them are great friends of India and contributed a lot in many areas," the minister said.

Reacting to the event, Chinese Foreign Ministry told PTI in Beijing that "No country in the world recognises the so-called Tibetan government-in-exile".

"We are firmly against any countrys official contact with it in any form, and resolutely opposed to any countrys interference in Chinas internal affairs by using Tibet- related issues as an excuse," the Foreign Ministry said.

The presence of Tibetan leaders at the dinner has brought the focus back on the issue of Tibets sovereignty as China routinely protests visits and meetings of Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama and his associates saying it constitutes meddling in its internal affairs.

In October last year, China had objected to Vermas visit to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh which Beijing claims as southern Tibet, saying any interference by Washington in the Sino-India boundary dispute will make it "more complicated" and "disturb" hard-won peace at the border.

Last month, China took strong exception to the Dalai Lamas meeting with President Pranab Mukherjee at Rashtrapati Bhavan during a childrens summit. PTI AKV SKL KUN

--- ENDS ---
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday it was no time to build walls between nations and criticised steps towards cancelling world trade agreements, without naming new US President Donald Trump.

His remarks came after Trump ordered the construction of a wall along the US-Mexico border and imposed tough new controls on travellers from seven Muslim countries, including Iran.

"They have forgotten that the Berlin Wall collapsed many years ago. Even if there are walls between nations, they must be removed," Rouhani said at a tourism convention in Tehran.

Rouhani did not comment directly on the visa ban, but said Iran had "opened its doors" to foreign tourists since the signing of a nuclear agreement with world powers in 2015.

With more than a million Iranians living in the US, many families are deeply concerned about the implications of Trump's visa ban, which also affects citizens from Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

"To annul world trade accords does not help their economy and does not serve the development and blooming of the world economy," Rouhani said at the conference. "This is the day for the world to get closer through trade."

Earlier, Taraneh Alidoosti, one of Iran's most popular actresses said that she would boycott February's Academy Awards in protest at the visa ban.

"Trump's visa ban for Iranians is racist. Whether this will include a cultural event or not, I won't attend the #AcademyAwards 2017," tweeted Alidoosti, who stars in the Oscar-nominated movie "The Salesman".

No visas will be issued for migrants, refugees or visitors from the seven countries for at least 90 days, a restriction which can be extended if the countries in question do not provide extensive information on individuals seeking to enter the United States.

Trump also suspended the US refugee programme for 120 days, and specifically barred Syrian refugees until further notice.
Pakistan has expressed the hope that the Saarc summit, scheduled to be held here in November last year and postponed due to the boycott by India, will be organised soon.

Adviser to Pakistani Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz on Friday talked to Arjun Bahadur Thapa, the outgoing Secretary General of South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc), that India "impeded the process and violated the spirit of the Saarc Charter".

"Pakistan remains committed to hosting the 19th Saarc Summit here at the earliest so that the objectives of regional cooperation under the Saarc umbrella can be pursued more vigorously," Xinhua news agency quoted Aziz as saying.

According to Nepal, the current Saarc Chair, the conference was cancelled after Bangladesh, Bhutan, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka followed India's decision to boycott the summit.

Thapa emphasised the need to overcome the difficulties that the organisation faced and expressed the hope that the summit would be held as soon as possible.

The boycott from the Indian side came as relations between the neighbouring nations dipped after the September 18 attack at an Indian Army base in Uri town of Kashmir that left 19 soldiers dead. India blamed Pakistani militants for the attack.

Aziz reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to regional cooperation under the framework of Saarc for promoting welfare of the people of South Asia, improving their quality of life, economic progress, social uplift and cultural cooperation.

Aziz believed the Saarc Secretariat could play an important role as catalyst to bring all the member states together and ensure timely and effective implementation of programmes and activities that would benefit the region.
US President Donald Trump has re-decorated the Oval Office according to his opulent tastes with new gold curtains and a red-and-beige rug with green leaves, the media reported.

A CBS News report on Friday said that these changes came naturally to Trump whose family home is a three-storey penthouse in New York's Trump Tower.

His 'Versailles in the Sky', as it has come to be known, is accented with marble, the family "coat of arms", and paintings of Greek gods along with plenty of golden coloured items around the house.

One of the most notable choices Trump made in the Oval Office in accordance with his love of gilded decor, was replacing the red curtains used during former President Barack Obama's second term with a set of gold ones.

While used briefly by former President George W. Bush, these curtains ironically first hung in the Oval Office during Bill Clinton's presidency. President Bush ultimately swapped them out for a slightly different set of golden drapes, the report said.

The next replacement was the tan-and-navy rug which the Obama administration had laid out in 2010 with inspirational quotes from five American heroes around its outer edge.

But one item that Trump has retained from the previous administration is the Resolute Desk, as it is officially known, the most ornate of the Oval Office desks and also the most popular one, the report said.

Used by Obama, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, Ronald Reagan, Jimmy Carter, and John F. Kennedy, the Resolute Desk has been used by more US Presidents than the Hoover Desk, the Johnson Desk and the Wilson Desk combined.

Opulent and highly ornamented, its wood was salvaged from a British ship called the HMS Resolute, which explored the Arctic in the mid-1800s.
US President Donald Trump plans to open a dialogue with Russia that could lead to lifting of American sanctions, even as Britains visiting Prime Minister Theresa May and key Republican senators urged him not to let up the pressure on the Kremlin until it reverses its armed intervention in Ukraine, the media reported.

Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin intended to talk by telephone on Saturday about fighting terrorism in the Middle East, a collaboration that would represent a significant turnabout from years of friction between the two countries, the New York Times reported.

At the direction of the White House, US officials have been preparing memos outlining possible common ground, including the prospect of removing some or all of the sanctions imposed by former President Barack Obama.

Trump has suggested lifting the punitive measures in exchange for nuclear arms cuts and Russian cooperation in fighting the Islamic State, according to the report.

Asked about sanctions, the US President on Friday played down the possibility of quick action, but did not rule it out.

"As for sanctions, very early to be talking about that," Trump said at a White House conference with British PM Theresa May. "But we look to have a great relationship with all countries, ideally."

May warned Trump against easing sanctions unless Russia abides by a peace settlement for Ukraine negotiated in Minsk, the capital of Belarus.

Senator John McCain of Arizona also warned Trump against lifting sanctions and vowed to push legislation reinstating them if he does, a measure that has strong bipartisan support, including from Republicans like Senators Rob Portman of Ohio and Ben Sasse of Nebraska.

Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the majority leader, who has largely shunned confrontation with Trump, has also been a longstanding opponent of lifting sanctions, a position he forcefully reiterated on Friday.

According to the New York Times, one topic that may come up on Saturday's call is the fate of Austin Tice, a freelance journalist who disappeared in Syria in 2012.

Trump may ask Putin for help in pressuring Russia's ally, President Bashar al-Assad of Syria, to release Tice, according to an official briefed on the matter.

Syria has never acknowledged holding him, but Trump has considered dropping support for the Syrian opposition.


US President Donald Trump said persecuted Christians will be given priority over other refugees seeking to enter the US, saying they have been "horribly treated".

Speaking with the Christian Broadcasting Network on Friday, Trump said that it had been "impossible, or at least very tough" for Syrian Christians to enter the US, CNN reported.

"If you were a Muslim you could come in, but if you were a Christian, it was almost impossible and the reason that was so unfair  everybody was persecuted, in all fairness  but they were chopping off the heads of everybody but more so the Christians. And I thought it was very, very unfair. So we are going to help them."

Trump did not name a reason or offer any evidence about why the agencies that vet refugees, including the Department of Homeland Security and the State Department, would have prioritized Muslim refugees over Christians.

According to a report by the non-partisan Pew Research Center, however, 99 per cent of the nearly 12,600 Syrians granted refugee status last year were Muslims. Less than 1 per cent were Christian. Syria's population is 87 per cent Muslim and 10 per cent Christian, according to the CIA World Fact Book.

Also on Friday, Trump signed an executive order freezing refugee applications from seven Muslim-majority countries in the Middle East and Africa, including Syria. It's unclear how his pledge to help persecuted Christians from those countries will accord with that plan.

The US admitted a record number of 38,901 Muslim refugees in 2016, according to a study conducted by Pew. But nearly the same number of Christians, 37,521 were also admitted.

Many religious groups have denounced Trump's proposed ban on refugees from Muslim-majority countries.

At the same time, many Christian groups that resettle refugees in the US decry the persecution of their brethren overseas but said the country should not give favour to fellow Christians or bar Muslims.

"We would resist that strongly," Scott Arbeiter, president of World Relief, the humanitarian arm of the National Association of Evangelicals and one of nine agencies that partner with the federal government to resettle refugees.

"Some of the most vulnerable people in the world right now are Muslims. If we say no Muslim should be let in, we are denying the humanity and dignity of people made in the image of God."
A Chinese military official has said that war with the US is a practical reality, signalling Beijing's preparedness for a possible military conflict with Washington.

In a commentary on the official website of People's Liberation Army, the official at the national defence mobilisation department in the Central Military Commission has said that US rebalancing its strategy in Asia, military deployments in the East and South China Seas and the instillation of a missile defence system in South Korea were hot spots getting closer to ignition.

"A war within the president's term' or 'war breaking out tonight' are not just slogans, they are becoming a practical reality," South China Morning Post quoted the article.

The official People's Daily said in another commentary on Sunday that China's military would conduct exercises on the high seas regardless of foreign provocations.

China's sole aircraft carrier Liaoning passed through the narrow Taiwan Strait last month.

The tensions between the two countries have been on constant rise after Donald Trump's election as the US President. He has infuriated China by challenging on the issues of Taiwan and South China Sea.

The real estate mogul has contested "One China Policy," which considers Taiwan as part of mainland. No US government has done that in the last four decades.

Trump has openly challenged Beijing's sovereignty over the energy-rich South China Sea while his predecessor Barack Obama maintained neutrality over the dispute. However, he did send the US warships to the contested waters, citing the freedom of navigation.

The commentary referred to remarks by the US secretary of state Rex Tillerson hopeful that the US should stop China's access to artificial islands it has built in disputed areas of the South China Sea.

New White House spokesman Sean Spicer told a press conference that the US would prevent China from taking over territory in international waters in the South China Sea.
Director Sanjay Leela Bhansali is reportedly returning to Mumbai and has cancelled the shoot of Padmavati in Jaipur.

By India Today Web Desk: Director Sanjay Leela Bhansali has cancelled the shoot of Padmavati in Jaipur, Rajasthan and is returning to Mumbai, according to latest reports.

This comes after director Bhansali was manhandled by members of a fringe outfit called Karni Sena on the sets of Padmavati yesterday in Jaipur.

WATCH: Sanjay Leela Bhansali thrashed by Karni Sena on Padmavati sets

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Bhansali was slapped and his clothes were torn. In addition to this, Padmavati's sets were vandalised and expensive film equipment was destroyed.

Photo: IndiaToday.in

Photo: IndiaToday.in

Photo: IndiaToday.in

Photo: IndiaToday.in

Speaking to India Today, Bhansali said, "I am (fine), you have to go through this humiliation sometimes to make a film in this country."

ALSO READ: Hardik Patel wants assurance that history will not be distorted in Padmavati

Padmavati is based on the 1303 siege of Rajasthan's Chittor fort by Alauddin Khilji. Khilji wanted to have Rani Padmini, the wife of Rana Rawal Ratan Singh, for himself. However, before Alauddin could reach Padmini, the queen self-immolated herself and became a myth all across India.

Several reports prior to the attack on January 27 said that Padmavati would feature a romantic sequence between Rani Padmini (Deepika Padukone) and Alauddin Khilji (Ranveer Singh).

However, Bhansali Productions' CEO Shobha Sant had long ago confirmed that no such scene was going to be a part of the film.

Here's the proof everyone @ShobhaIyerSant had clarified tht there are no love scenes & dream sequences b/w Dp 's & RS's CharacterSpread It pic.twitter.com/Q6EeXL4ZZR BhansaliProductionFC (@bhansaliprod_fc) January 27, 2017

Several filmmakers and actors from the Mumbai film industry have condemned the attack on Sanjay Leela Bhansali. From Anurag Kashyap to Ram Gopal Varma, Ashutosh Gowariker to Karan Johar, Sushant Singh Rajput to Priyanka Chopra, the incident has angered the Bollywood fraternity.

ALSO READ: Bollywood stands in solidarity with Sanjay Leela Bhansali

The Indian Film & Television Directors Association (IFTDA) also condemned the attack and requested the government to take immediate action.

Condemning the attack on its member #SanjayLeelaBhansali, @DirectorsIFTDA appeals to d Central & State Govt. to provide full security 2 him. Iftda India (@DirectorsIFTDA) January 27, 2017

Meanwhile, The Film and Television Producers Guild of India released a statement condemning the attack on Bhansali and asked the authorities to take "stringent measures" against the culprits.

Here is the full statement by The Film and Television Producers Guild of India:

The dastardly act of vandalism and assault which happened yesterday on the sets of filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali's film 'Padmavati' at Jaipur is extremely unfortunate, deplorable and totally unacceptable to the Indian film industry. The Film & Television Producers Guild of India Ltd. ("Guild") in unison with the entire film fraternity strongly condemns this despicable episode and expresses its absolute and unflinching support to Sanjay Leela Bhansali.

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Guild President Siddharth Roy Kapur in no uncertain terms said, "As President of The Film & Television Producers Guild of India and speaking on behalf of the entire film industry, I strongly condemn the acts of vandalism on the sets of Padmavati as a direct attack on freedom of expression in our democracy. The film industry has become the softest target for any fringe group looking for media attention, and we need the strongest possible intervention from the concerned authorities to end this and to end it now. We stand united and unflinching in our support of Sanjay Leela Bhansali, and urge the Government of India and the State Government of Rajasthan to take immediate steps to ensure the strongest possible punitive action is taken against these miscreants, so it serves as a deterrent in preventing the recurrence of such unacceptable events in the future.

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The distressing part is that this is not the first time that fringe elements have unilaterally taken the law into their own hands to disrupt shoots/film releases and cause tremendous financial losses to film producers. The film Jodhaa Akbar was also not permitted to release in Rajasthan by the same group despite censor certification.

It is a glaring paradox that on the one hand the Central Government, various State Governments along with the film fraternity has been leaving no stone unturned to universally project India as an attractive shooting locale and on the other such hands miscreants are resorting to hooliganism of the worst order to defeat the 'Shoot in India' endeavor. Such disparaging incidents not only discourage our film makers to shoot in India with them preferring to travel abroad for shoots, but also puts foreign producers on the alarm against prospective plans to shoot in Indian locales. The sordid story of these debilitating turn of events is that such misinformed individuals/organizations are not even realizing the structured and methodical manner in which the process of film making evolves at the shooting/release stage and further at the time of certification clearance from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).

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The Guild makes a strong plea to the concerned ministries and authorities to promptly initiate stringent measures against these elements to send out a strong message to other misinformed individuals/bodies that such acts will not be tolerated in the future and thereby provide a timely deterrent against the repetition of these unacceptable incidents.

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Among the four accused who have been sentenced for life are Zahida Parvej, Shakib Danger who brought the contract killer from Kanpur and arranged for logistics in Bhopal and Tabish who pulled the trigger.

By Hemender Sharma: Four of the five accused in the sensational Shehla Masood murder case of Bhopal have been convicted and sentenced to life in jail while the fifth accused who turned approver during the trial has been granted pardon. Announcing the judgement in a packed court room in Indore, special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) judge BL Paloda held the four guilty of murder as relatives of the accused broke down.

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Among the four accused who have been sentenced for life are Zahida Parvej, the interior designer who gave the contract to kill Shehla, Shakib Danger who brought the contract killer from Kanpur and arranged for logistics in Bhopal and Tabish, who pulled the trigger.

Irfan who accompanied Tabish on the bike to the murder spot turned approver during the trial and was pardoned by the court while Saba Faroqui who assisted the killers in the murder conspiracy was also been convicted of murder under section 302 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and sentenced to life in prison.

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SHEHLA MASOOD MURDER CASE: Shehla Masood an RTI activists and Anna Hazare supporter was shot dead at point blank range outside her house in the Kohe Fiza area of Bhopal just after she stepped in to her car to leave for a protest demonstration organized in support of the India Against Corruption campaign on August 16, 2011. The Bhopal Police started initial investigations and tried to give it a suicide twist even though no weapon was recovered from the spot. The role of the police came under suspicion as theories like honour killing started floating in the local press from anonymous sources. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh announced a CBI probe after names of top BJP leaders started floating as possible suspects. CBI took over the investigation 18 days after the murder just as the sensational murder became a national talking point. Top investigators including Joint Director Keshav Kumar and DIG Arun Bothra were asked to supervise the investigations of the case in October 2011 after the CBI investigator in Bhopal could not make any headway. CBI made the first arrest on February 28, 2011. Shakib Danger was tracked through his mobile location and his associates were traced to Kanpur. Shakib led the investigators to Zahida Parvez alleging she had given the contract to kill Shehla as she suspected her of having an affair with her husband. Shakib misled the investigators for two weeks before the final story was out with the arrest of Irfan who spilled the beans in Uttar Pradesh. The role of Tabish too was soon after. The trial went on for four years and 11 months and finally the four main accused were convicted and sentenced to life in prison on January 28, 2017.

Click here to Enlarge Accused Zahida Parvej and Saba Faroqui

Also read: The inside story of Shehla Masood's murder

Also read: Love & Murder in Bhopal

--- ENDS ---
Continuing to play the victim card, chairperson of defunct Kingfisher Airlines, Vijay Mallya on Saturday demanded evidence from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Security Exchange Board of India (SEBI) so as to justify the fraud charges they have levelled against him.

The liquor baron, who has been accused of diversion of funds from Kingfisher Airlines, took to his Twitter handle asking the media to question the CBI and SEBI to furnish proof on the basis of which latter are levelling charges against him.

Before slamming me ask CBI and SEBI some tough questions on what proof or evidence they have to allege fraud, Mallya tweeted.

Slamming the news channels for distorting facts, Mallya asked the media not to get carried away with one sided allegations.

In a series of tweets Mallya also said he had been interrogated by the CBI and submitted documentary evidence which showed that there was no misuse of funds.

Asserting that KFA being the largest domestic Airline was the worst hit, he added, Government bailed out Air India but did not bail out KFA. So much for "favours.

The flamboyant businessman had earlier rubbished SEBI's allegations of indulging in fraudulent activities and said he is getting used to these witch hunts coming from all directions with no legal basis whatsoever.

"Allegations of fund diversion out of USL are baseless. USL accounts were approved by top Auditors, an eminent Board of Directors in shareholders," Mallya had said, adding this shows what government machinery can do.

The market regulator SEBI has barred Mallya from the stock market for fraudulently diverting about Rs. 1,881 crore from United Spirits (USL) to various other entities within the UB Group, including now grounded Kingfisher Airlines (KFA).

It also instructed USL to report to SEBI, within 21 days, about the action it has initiated against Mallya, Capoor and others.

Along with Mallya, SEBI also barred another six people including Ashok Capoor and V.K. Rekhi, both former MDs of USL from the market. Capoor has also been barred from directorship of any listed company.
Woman activist and lawyer Abha Singh on Saturday lashed out Salman Khan over black buck poaching case,saying she he should file a counter if he is truly innocent.

She said, If the forest department has falsely implicated him, then I challenge Salman Khan to go under section 211 of the IPC. Why doesnt he file a counter case to the forest department for maligning his name and harassing him, for keeping him behind the bars in the Jodhpur Jail. He has a legal avenue under 211 of the IPC. Why is he keeping quiet? It clearly shows that Salman khan is speaking legally tutored language of what his lawyers are telling him.

She said,How can there be two postmortem reports. The first report said the black buck died due to falling in a hole and due to a dog bite, and the second one suggested something else.

Singh said it was now for the Judiciary to get the truth out as the police and the defence have connived in not conducting the case in a true manner.

Everybody knows that after he was let off in the hit and run case in Mumbai, Delhi Police came out with a notification saying these are sixteen points where they goofed up and the benefit went to Salman Khan. So,whether the prosecution and police has deliberately goofed up and left holes for Salman Khans benefit, is another investigation which needs to be done, but at the moment. It is obvious what happened and he is trying to take the judiciary for a ride. She concluded.

During the shooting of Sooraj Barjatya's movie, Hum Saath Saath Hain in year 1999, Salman Khan allegedly went on a shooting expedition along with actors Saif Ali Khan, Neelam, Sonali Bendre and Tabu, killing two black bucks in Kankani village.

Following protests by the local Bishnoi community, a case was filed against Salman Khan and other actors.
A literary session being addressed by JNU student activist Kanhaiya Kumar had to be cut short at the Tata Steel Kolkata Literary Meet (KLM) on Saturday after ultra-Left activists raised slogans against him and the sponsors.



Kumar, who has penned a book 'Bihar to Tihar', was addressing a session of the KLM at Rabindra Sarobar Stadium, about five km from the main venue Victoria Memorial.



About half an hour into the session, as Kumar was answering queries from the moderator, Mudar Patherya, some young activists holding aloft posters decrying the meet stood up and demanded the student leader reply to their posers.



Kumar tried to pacify them, saying he would reply to all the issues raised by them during the question-answer part of the session.



However, the activists - under the platform of Bastar Solidarity Network India - raised slogans against the former Jawaharlal Nehru University's Students' Union president for attending a literary meet organised by a corporate and "accepting corporate hospitality".



Slogans like "Kashmir Maange Azaadi" and "Maqbool Maange Azaadi" were also heard, as the protesters held aloft the placards blocking the view of the audience..



After some time, Kumar managed to pacify them saying "This is a new form of protest. I shall use it in my JNU also."



There was more disturbance about 20 minutes later as the protesters raised their voice demanding an explanation from Kumar as to why he was there.



The policemen guarding the stage and the organisers threw a protective ring around Kumar, who continued to plead with the radical leftists to allow the session to continue.



But some of the protesters mounted the dais and tried to put forth their point of view to Kumar, who asked one of them whether he was a Communist.



"Yes," the young activist answered.



"Which party?" Kumar asked.



"I don't have any party," the activist said.



"Then you are not a Communist. Go and learn Marx and Lenin properly," Kumar said.



The organisers and some of Kumar's associates repeatedly requested the activists to sit down, but the latter were in no mood to listen.



"Kumar is behaving like a bourgeois. He talks a lot about the plight of the adivasis (tribals), but sides with those who oppress tribals. We have come here to protest against the meet and Kumar gracing it," said a female protester. "Some of the protesters are students, and some others activists. We do not belong to any particular party".



There was more chaos as some senior members of the audience sharply criticised the protesters.



But as the commotion and slogan shouting continued, he was forced to cut short the programme.



"I apologise to the audience. I would have loved to answer their queries, but these friends will not allow me to speak.



"I did not expect this to happen in Kolkata," he said as the organisers and the police took Kumar away by throwing a cordon around him.


A series of events will be held during the course of 2017 to mark the silver jubilee of the Association of South East Asian NAtions (ASEAN)-India dialogue partnership, which was sealed on January 28, 1992.

(File) ASEAN logo

Reflecting the theme of 'shared values, common destiny', these events, said external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj, will span political, economic, cultural and people to people spheres, the highlight of which will be a commemorative summit and a commemorative Foreign ministers' meeting in India.

Philippines president and ASEAN chair for 2017, Rodrigo Duterte, sent a congratulatory message to Prime minister Narendra Modi. He praised India's initiatives and made special note of India's commitment to one billion US dollars line of credit for connectivity with ASEAN.

Modi, in his message to Duetrte, observed that India's Act East policy is a reflection of the importance India gives to the strategic partnership with ASEAN. As of today, there are 30 dialogue mechanisms between India and ASEAN, on areas ranging from foreign affairs, commerce, tourism and renewable energy. India is ASEAN's seventh largest trading partner.
Two ships carrying LPG and high speed diesel collided near Chennai this morning. Indian Coast Guard is assessing the damage caused by the incident.

Two ships colldied off Ennore near Chennai.

By Jugal R Purohit: In a major incident in the Bay of Bengal, two ships collided today off Ennore port near Chennai.

The colliding ships were MT Dawn Kanchipuram carrying high speed diesel and lube oil and MT Maple bearing Isle of Man flag carrying LPG.

The incident took place around 4 am, when Indian vessel MT Dawn Kanchipuram was coming into the port.

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It is not yet known as to what caused the collision of two ships in such a high security port.

The Indian vessel carrying petroleum products was coming into the port when the accident took place.

Indian Coast Guard's helicopter assessing damage caused by the collision of ships.

No casualty was reported in the collision. But, the Indian vessels sustained damage.

Reports suggested that a few tones of oil was said to have spilled out of the MT Dawn Kanchipuram.

The Coast Guard sources said that the situation was 'not very grave and the port is controlling it."

Ship collision off Ennore.

No further spillage was reported. The movement of other ships are said to be normal.

Both ships were later anchored safely while Coast Guard helicopters were pressed into service to assess the damage and spillage.

An inquiry has been ordered into the incident. Indian Coast Guard is likely to conduct the probe as it has certain expertise in assessing and containing oil spillage.

The Coast Guard has placed its ships in the affected area for firefighting if situation worsens.

A statement from Ennore port, officially named as Kamarajar port, said that there was no damage to environment. The vessels are safely afloat and anchored. The extent of damage is under assessment, the statement read.

(With inputs from agencies)

--- ENDS ---
Defense Secretary James Mattis has ordered reviews of two key Air Force aircraft programs which were criticized by President Donald Trump last month as too expensive.

Mattis asked for a review of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program to find ways to cut costs. He said the review should compare the F-35 with the F/A-18 Super Hornet and determine if an upgraded Hornet could be a cost effective alternative.

He also asked for a review of the presidential aircraft program to identify cost savings.

The orders mirror tweets by Trump in December, saying that due to cost overruns in Lockheed Martins F-35, he asked Boeing to price-out a comparable Super Hornet. Trump also tweeted that the new Air Force One cost too much, and he demanded: Cancel order!

(AP)
As Americas National Guard and Reserve forces spend more time deployed and away from their workplaces, their employers are being asked to sustain a much greater level of employee absence and related consequences.

Jer Cox, a branch manager with Academy Mortgage in Flagstaff, understands the strain and complications that can arise by employing an individual doing double-duty serving their company and their country.

For his support of Jennifer Knope, an Academy Loan Processor and Training Specialist with the Army Reserves, Cox was presented with the Patriotic Employer award Jan. 17 by the National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve. ESGR is a Department of Defense agency that promotes public and private understanding of the National Guard and Reserve in order to gain employer and community support.

The recognition was a surprise to Cox. Its an honor to work with a service member, said Cox. Jennifer represents our country. Im proud of our country and all of the service members who work extremely hard to represent us and protect our freedom.

I nominated Jer for this award for all of the support that he gives me in regard to my military service, said Knope. Jer continues to make my transition from working full time at Academy to my one- weekend-a-month trainings very smooth. I sincerely felt that he deserved recognition for his exceptional support.

Knope has served in the Army Reserves for 15 years, three of which were active-duty deployments  two years stateside and one year in Iraq (2003). As a Training NCO, she prepares and trains soldiers who are deployed overseas.
SM Krishna served as the Minister of External Affairs under former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. His resignation is believed to have been prompted by Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah's alleged dictatorial behaviour.

By Rohini Swamy, Smita Sharma: Former Union Minster SM Krishna today resigned from the Indian National Congress. It is believed that his decision to leave the party was prompted by the alleged high-handedness and dictatorial behaviour of Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

The decision is expected to be formally announced on Sunday at around 11 am during a press conference at his residence in Bangalore.

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Krishna, a former Karnataka chief minister, has sent his resignation to party president Sonia Gandhi, but his letter to Gandhi does not elaborate on the reasons for his departure. Krishna served as the Minster of External Affairs in the UPA II under former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and also had a run as the governor of Maharashtra.

Click here to Enlarge SM Krishna tendered his resignation to Congress chief Sonia Gandhi

Watch video: Former Karnataka CM SM Krishnaa resigns from Congress

--- ENDS ---
Railway station car parks could be moved underground to make way for thousands of new homes in a government drive to tackle the housing crisis.

Ministers are considering using surplus railway land to boost housebuilding without bulldozing swathes of protected Green Belt land.

Under one initiative, car parks at some stations could be dug underground to provide space for modern apartment blocks.

Plans to use disused railway land for housing are expected to be included in a housing White Paper released by Communities Secretary Sajid Javid (pictured) in the next fortnight

A government source said: Railway stations are an ideal location because, by definition, they already have good transport links. Many of them have enormous car parks, which are not a great use of space, so why not move them underground?

At some of these sites you could unlock a substantial amount of brownfield land for housing, in places where people want to live.

The idea is expected to be among a number of initiatives outlined in a housing White Paper to be published by Communities Secretary Sajid Javid in the next fortnight. It will set out how the Government intends to meet its pledge to build one million homes by 2020.

Ministers are determined to pursue a brownfield first policy that focuses new housing on previously developed sites to minimise the impact on areas of open countryside.

They believe the density of housing can be increased in many towns and cities without damaging the urban environment. They point to the example of the exclusive Kensington and Chelsea borough of London, where low-rise mansion blocks have helped create one of the densest neighbourhoods in the country.

The White Paper is also expected to include plans for more housing on high streets that have fallen into disuse. Empty shops could be transformed into flats and apartments built above existing stores.

Ministers launched a pilot project last year to build hundreds of new homes at stations in York, Taunton in Somerset, and Swindon.

Speaking at the time, the then communities secretary Greg Clark said stations had unique potential.

The plans are part of ministers' 'brownfield first' policy which aims to avoid taking over huge swathes of Green Belt land for development

Rail stations are a hub of communities, connectivity and commerce and should be making the most of their unique potential to attract investment and opportunities, he added.

With record numbers of people travelling by train, it makes sense to bring people closer to stations and develop sites that have space for thousands of new homes and offices.

Ministers suggested the scheme could eventually deliver up to 10,000 homes across the country.

But Mr Javid is thought to believe the potential is significantly higher.

Some of the sites could also provide land for the first in a new generation of prefab homes, which ministers believe could slash the time it takes to get new housing developed. Theresa May has ordered ministers to pull out all the stops to make good on Tory promises to ease the housing crisis.

The Prime Minister has repeatedly identified the lack of affordable housing as one of the everyday injustices faced by millions of families. She has said it is unacceptable that young people find it harder than ever before to own their own home.

But Mr Javid has been forced to walk a fine line because of Tory pressure to avoid a surge in housebuilding on the Green Belt.

At least ten Cabinet ministers  including Mr Javid  are facing local protests over proposed housing development on the Green Belt, with several campaign groups vowing publicly to fight any loosening of the rules.

Countryside campaigners warn that mounting government pressure to build houses is forcing the release rural land for development.

A survey this month found half of councillors in England believe Green Belt land in their area will be bulldozed for housing in the next five years.
By Press Trust of India: Jammu, Jan 28 (PTI) The Jammu and Kashmir government has signed an MoU with the Centre for the development of two mega solar parks in the rocky mountainous region of Ladakh with a total capacity of 7500 MW.

Minister for Science & Technology, Sajjad Gani Lone today said the government has proposed development of one each Mega Solar Park in the districts of Leh and Kargil.

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"The State Government has signed MoU with the Government of India for the development of two Mega Solar Parks of 5000 MW capacity in Leh district and 2500 MW capacity in Kargil district," Lone informed the House in reply to a Question by Congress Legislative Party Leader Nawang Rigzin Jora.

However, he said the work on these projects has not been started as yet in view of non-availability of land and lack of proper infrastructure in Ladakh for transmission of power generated from the proposed parks. PTI AB BSA

--- ENDS ---
What a time to be alive! Lets just say I barely survived; my soul was like a Ford Kuga 1.6 EcoSport; combusting at the edges from holding my breath because Yahya Jammeh is the god of coup detats. My soul was drowning in the January 21 sad sea of worldwide protests calling for the recognition and respect of womens and human rights.



Or was it my own sins showing me flames when the announcement that starting this week, Swazilands schools would have to teach no other religion but Christianity? It was surely tough dealing with all these stratagems that point towards a religious erasure of our human existence.

Fundamental rights and Freedoms:



The common thread in the above scenarios is the complete disregard for the Constitution of each country. A countrys Constitution is the voice of the people; at least it should be upheld as such since it is ordinarily crafted by the people and for themselves towards self-determination. In the 2005 Swaziland Constitution for instance, the people agreed to a set of fundamental rights and freedoms and importantly EQUALITY before the law. Parts of Chapter 3, Section 23 state:



(1) A person has a right to freedom of thought, conscience or religion.

(2) Except with the free consent of that person, a person shall not be hindered in the enjoyment of the freedom of conscience, and for the purposes of this section freedom of conscience includes freedom of thought and of religion, freedom to change religion or belief, and freedom of worship either alone or in community with others.



There are many elements that disturb me about the blatant contempt of the above by this new pro-Christian only school syllabus, including evident indoctrination of the masses.



What worries me most though is the apparent restriction to basic knowledge, which the Constitution also promises to protect and guarantee as a basic and fundamental right of each Swazi citizen.



This includes knowledge about our history as a people and without knowledge of our past, we have restricted ability to determine and make sense of our present and future.



It is an acknowledged fact that Africans had their own religious practices before Christianity was imported into the continent by colonialists.

History tells us that our Swazi religion, before Christianity, and which many people still practice today through individual and national events, is worshipping emadloti (ancestors).



Through the annual national Incwala event, we still thank the ancestors  who are connected to Mvelincanti (Supreme Being who was there from the beginning) - for good harvests and ask further our ancestors to bless us with good rain in the coming year.

Navigating Existence through History:



If we suddenly stop exposing Swazi children to this rich history, then what are we saying about our existence? I mean, how does a person exercise his right to develop a conscience (defined as the inner voice that distinguishes right from wrong) without first being conscious (being alert and aware)? In defence of this new policy, Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Education Pat Muir is quoted as saying, the move is necessary to enforce the ability for school children to differentiate between morality and immorality and to ensure that children are not confused.



Confused? Suddenly opening your mind to a wealth of knowledge on a certain topic is confusing? Also, how are these children expected to grow into adults who will be able to exercise their right and freedom to thought and expression, without a level of consciousness to options available for them to express their freedom of religion for instance? How do they develop a conscience on morality and immorality based on a one dimensional perspective?



What are we also saying about the promise of our Constitution? Are we stressing what many an observer has said; that it was crafted and signed into law only as a cosmetic procedure to appease those whom Swazi authorities consider to be the powers that be?

While other countries in the world are adding Humanism to the Religious Education syllabus in order to widen the scope of human appreciation, we seem to be regressing.



Humanism makes more sense to me:

A simple definition; Humanism is a philosophical and ethical stance that emphasizes the value and agency of human beings, individually and collectively, and affirms their ability to improve their lives through the use of reason and ingenuity as opposed to submitting blindly to tradition and authority or sinking into cruelty and brutality. Surely this also easily speaks to equality and justice.



Equality before the law:

This is why Im also deeply distressed because our Constitution guarantees equality before the law. It also guarantees that none will be discriminated against even based on religion as stated in Chapter 3, Section 20.

(1) All persons are equal before and under the law in all spheres of political, economic, social and cultural life and in every other respect and shall enjoy equal protection of the law.



(2) For the avoidance of any doubt, a person shall not be discriminated against on the grounds of gender, race, colour, ethnic origin, tribe, birth, creed or religion, or social or economic standing, political opinion, age or disability.

How is the current move not discriminatory against other religions? I know many people have been vocal in their individual spaces about this ban of other religions in school. Sadly, it will amount to nothing but scattered individual dissenting voices.

I dont blame them; after all how can one be sure that their legally guaranteed right to express a different view, as promised by the Constitution, will be protected? At the same time though, how long will we find comfort and progress in speaking in isolated spaces instead of uniting to deliver our concerns as a collective when we feel strongly about an issue? Are we okay with our existence being systematically erased right before our eyes? What is self-determination?
MBABANE  About E300 million is needed to complete close to 420 civil servants houses in the educational sector before the end of this year.



This was confirmed by the Swaziland National Housing Board (SNHB) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mduduzi Dlamini yesterday during a tour of flats constructed by the board.



These flats are part of the Institutional Housing Project, which started in 2014.

Dlamini said SNHB was in the process of constructing 26 blocks of flats, with each having eight units. This translates to 208 units that could be shared by 416 civil servants.



Needed



He said the Board needed more than the E300 million to cater for other government ministries like the Defence and Health.

Dlamini stated that they had still not acquired the millions needed to finance the major project but they had a government guarantee of E1 billion and had already spent E700 million in constructing flats for the Swaziland Royal Police Service, His Majestys Correctional Services and the Swaziland National Fire and Emergency Services.

We are still talking to a number of prospective financers. We obviously prefer local institutions because the project is meant to stimulate the economy.

Dlamini said giving preference to local financers would stimulate economic activity and create jobs.

He said it was up to the financers where they sourced the money but their interest was in engaging the locals. Further, he said they had engaged local asset managers for the project while hinting that they had already begun planning for phase II of the project.
MBABANE  The country wakes up without an Attorney General (AG) as current AG Majahenkhaba Dlamini was appointed a judge together with seven others.



Dlamini is now a permanent judge of the Supreme Court with Stanley Maphalala, Robert Cloette and Jacobus Annandale.

The former AG, as permanent Supreme Court Judge, could among other things review his wife Judge Mumcy Dlaminis cases.

However, in a brief interview yesterday evening, he said this would not easily happen as there are many other judges who can review cases that his wife presided over.



Chances are that someone might challenge this and since there is an option for recusal it may not happen.

Dlamini said he could only handle his wifes cases if there was a necessity.



Law Society of Swaziland (LSS) Secretary Bongani Mdluli did not see a problem in this as he described both Dlamini and his wife as professionals who have been appointed in their professional capacities. The law also provides for such situations where one feels there is conflict of interest and that route is open for everyone.



Mdluli said even when Dlamini was AG, he worked with his wife in some cases and there had never been a problem with that.

On the appointment of judges, Mdluli said the Society would issue a statement.

In 2015, Dlamini was appointed Acting Judge of the Supreme Court for only the month of July, a move that made him a member of all three arms of government.
The new report by the board consisting of doctors from Chandigarh, Pudducherry and Delhi was given to Delhi Police's SIT two weeks ago.

By Anuj Mishra: Deepening the mystery surrounding the circumstances which led to the death of Sunanda Pushkar, wife of Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, in 2014, a new medical board has said cause of death remains inconclusive.

The new board was set up in March 2016 on directions of director general of health services after the then CP Bassi said AIIMS has failed to reach any conclusion.

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The new report by the board consisting of doctors from Chandigarh, Pudducherry and Delhi was given to Delhi Police's SIT two weeks ago.

Also read: Was Sunanda Pushkar force-fed medicine which caused her death?

AIIMS autopsy department also could not find the reason behind Sunanda's death on January 17, 2014, a day after she had an ugly spat on Twitter with Pakistani journalist Mehr Tarar. In November 2015, FBI had said Sunanda's death is unnatural but ruled out radioactive poisoning.

However there is a ray of hope, as a court in the US has asked authorities to expedite the retrieving of Sunanda's BBM chats which were found deleted. SIT had sent a letter of rogatory through a Delhi court.

Gujarat CFSL is about to submit forensic report of Sunanda's laptop. A year after her death a murder case was registered.

Also read: 10 things you should know about Sunanda Pushkar and her death

--- ENDS ---
By Press Trust of India: New Delhi, Jan 28 (PTI) External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj has sought detailed information from Indian High Commissioner in Malaysia regarding reports of an Indian stranded in the country after his employers allegedly seized his passport.

Media reports said that Jagat Singh, who is from Lohaghat, Uttarakhand, worked in a hotel in Malaysia and when he wanted to return home, his employer seized his passport and forced him to work.

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He escaped from the clutches of his employer and was stranded in Malaysia without his passport. He called his family in India a few days back to tell them about his ordeal.

His family has called for help from External Affairs Minister Swaraj.

Responding to the reports, Swaraj said, "I have asked for a report from Indian High Commissioner in Malaysia." PTI PYK ASK ASK

--- ENDS ---
New York

A businessman attacked a Muslim employee at a Kennedy Airport lounge, saying that President Donald Trump "will get rid of all of you," authorities said.

Robin Rhodes, of Worcester, Mass., had arrived from Aruba and was awaiting a connecting flight to Massachusetts on Wednesday night when he approached Rabeeya Khan, 60, who wears a hijab, at the Sky Club in Terminal 2 while she was sitting in the utility office, authorities said. Khan is a contracted employee based at the Sky Club and works for a facility services company, according to Delta.

Khan told police Rhodes came to the door and went on a profanity-laced tirade, asking her if she was praying, an official said. Rhodes punched the door, which hit the back of Khan's chair then cursed at her and kicked her in the leg, Khan told police.
By Press Trust of India: New Delhi, Jan 28 (PTI) Pakistan-sponsored terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir is a cumulative effect of a series of misdoings in last 60 years beginning from the mishandling by former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, Union minister Jitendra Singh said here today.

He said the recent surgical strike inside Pakistan territory is one of the examples of the decisive steps taken by the NDA government against terrorism sponsored by the neighbouring country.

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"If only Nehru had allowed the then Home Minister, Sardar Patel to handle Jammu and Kashmir instead of himself intruding into Home Ministrys domain, history of Indian sub-continent would have been different," Singh said at a round-table conference on "Countering Pakistan State Terror" organised by Global Counter Terrorism Council (GCTC).

He said the Narendra Modi-government has taken decisive steps against Pakistan-sponsored terrorism and the two recent examples are the decision of remonetisation (referring to demonetisation of old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes) "which has drastically reduced terror-related transactions, preceded by the decision of surgical strike inside Pakistan territory".

The Minister said Pakistan-sponsored terrorism in the context of Jammu and Kashmir is a cumulative effect of a series of misdoings of the past six decades beginning from the mishandling by the first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, an official release said.

"When the Modi government took over on May 26, 2014," Singh said, it bequeathed a huge baggage of cumulative liabilities from the past.

There was a feeling of pessimism and hopelessness all over the country, but within two years, he said, not only the common man in India is feeling proud to be an Indian, but the Indians settled abroad are also looking for an opportunity to return to their motherland.

"This itself is a vindication of the kind of redemption which the government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has succeeded in bringing about in just two-and-a-half years," said Singh, Minister of State in Prime Ministers Office.

As per reports, following remonetisation, there is a 60 per cent dipin terror-related activities and 50 per cent reduction in terror-related Hawala transactions being funded by Pakistan, he said.

"Not only this, at least two printing press units in Pakistan which were printing Indian fake currency and pumping into India have been compelled to shut down because there are no takers for that brand currency," the Minister said.

Similarly, the incidents of stone-pelting have also gone down drastically, he said.

Singh said, decisions like surgical strike and remonetisation have hit the "Achilles heel" of Pakistan and these are some of the decisive steps which no government in the past dared to take.

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Referring to the Modi governments stand on Baluchistan, he said, for the first time, the Indian forces have had the opportunity to give befitting retaliatory response to every act of mischief from Pakistan.

Singh reiterated that the Modi government follows a policy of zero tolerance to Pakistan-sponsored terrorism and will never compromise with the honour and dignity of the security forces of India or the sovereignty of the republic of India.

Among the panelists were analystSushil Pandita, former Foreign Secretary Kanwal Sibal, retired Vice-Chief of Army Staff Gen Phillip Campose, Imam Illiyasi and well known activist Tarek Fatah. PTI AKV SMJ

--- ENDS ---
Canajoharie

Demolition of the dilapidated former Beech-Nut factory in Canajoharie could resume this summer with support from a $500,000 state grant announced this week, Montgomery County Executive Matthew Ossenfort said Friday.

The grant under the Restore NY Community Initiative will cover part of the cost of demolishing up to five remaining buildings on the property's eastern end, he said. That bill could run up to $2 million, and would not include the main plant.

Demolition will depend on when the county forecloses on the property, which is delinquent on about $1.7 million in local property taxes. Ossenfort said the county can move to foreclose once it obtains a waiver of environmental liability from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Visible from the state Thruway, the 27-acre plant dates back to 1905 and dominates the historic village's small downtown. The plant closed six years ago when Beech-Nut moved to a site near Amsterdam. It was sold in 2013 to Ohio developer Todd Clifford, who promised to redevelop it but instead stripped the sprawling complex of its valuable scrap metal.

"I expect that the county will be foreclosing on this property. It is just a matter of when," Ossenfort said. The ownership of the property is still in dispute, with Clifford claiming he sold it in 2014 in a move described by local officials as a sham sale. In December, a Brooklyn-based developer claimed to control the property, but offered no proof.

This spring, the EPA reported that Clifford's crews left behind debris tainted with asbestos, a known human carcinogen. Removal is expensive, and local officials are estimating it could cost up to $10 million to finish demolishing and cleaning the property for potential development. That is much more than the county or the village can afford on their own.

"This state grant is very encouraging. It shows the state does have an interest in us," said Canajoharie Mayor Francis Avery, who has worked for years to deal with the massive eyesore in the midst of his downtown. Roof drains are leaking, letting water into the building, which is being infested with mold.

The mayor said another would-be owner has stepped forward recently, but again, offered no proof of actually owning it. "It is a shell game. As far as we are concerned, Mr. Clifford is the owner," said Avery.

Last summer, Howard Zemsky, president and CEO of Empire State Development and commissioner of the state Department of Economic Development, toured the plant. Afterward, he said the entire site will likely have to be demolished.

When asked at the time whether the state could seek to recover any funds it might expend on addressing Beech-Nut, Zemsky said the state was examining "potential environmental liability and chain of title." The Empire State Development press office could not immediately update Zemsky's statement on Friday.

bnearing@timesunion.com  518-454-5094  @Bnearing10
Albany

A federal judge on Friday sentenced a drug-addicted Albany man to three years in prison for selling painkillers, but warned him not to expect future leniency.

Salvatore Commisso, 33, also must pay a $2,000 fine, forfeit $16,523 and be on three years of supervised release.

"I promise you that you will not be happy if I see you after today," U.S. District Court Judge Mae D'Agostino told Commisso. His sentencing was attended by 28 of his family members, friends and supporters.

D'Agostino stressed to Commisso that she could have sentenced him to five years in prison. She highlighted the defendant's use of a "strikingly long list of drugs," including cocaine and oxycodone, the drug he sold. At one point, she noted, Commisso suffered a seizure.

"I really do think you're lucky to be alive," the judge said.

She told Commisso he is "worrisome" to her because he continued to abuse drugs after his arrest and after the birth of a new child. He has since made progress. D'Agostino said she was cautiously optimistic Commisso could stay clean once he is released from prison.

"You have a long way to go," the judge said.

Commisso pleaded guilty last year to conspiring to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance. Between December 2015 and February 2016, Commisso helped move 745 tablets of oxycodone for $6,250.

U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration investigators probing diverted prescription drug sales in the Albany area busted Commisso, a member of a crew that received its drugs in the New York City and Newark, N.J., areas.

"I can't turn a blind eye to that," D'Agostino said.

Commisso apologized to his family and "for contributing to the terrible drug epidemic."

He was convicted in 2015 of misdemeanor reckless endangerment.

Prosecutors said he was driving impaired by alcohol and injured a driver and passenger of another car in a crash.

In 2006, Commisso was convicted of dealing drugs in a case in which he had over four pounds of marijuana and was carrying a handgun, said Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Coffman, who prosecuted the case.

Commisso's lawyer, James Long, said his client became addicted to painkillers after a doctor prescribed them.

He said Commisso was not a "run-of-the-mill" defendant.

rgavin@timesunion.com  518-434-2403  @RobertGavinTU
Albany

A new statewide report on lead in public school drinking water has found that only about 86 percent of water fountains and sink faucets in upstate schools have been deemed safe.

New York state's health and education departments jointly announced Friday that a report entitled "Lead in School Drinking Water," had been given to Gov. Andrew Cuomo and state legislative leaders, with data from the report made public on the Health Data NY web site.

While many schools in the Capital Region had few fountains or faucets that tested positive for high lead levels, some had rather high rates of contamination, such as Guilderland High School, where 204 water sources tested positive for lead contamination, according to state data. That's more than the 161 water fountains or faucets that were OK.

Cuomo signed a bill last September that required school districts to test for lead in their drinking water. Since then, district officials have been informing parents of the results.

Under the law, any water outlet such as a sink or drinking fountain that is found to have more than 15 micrograms per liter of lead in its water supply must be taken out of service until it can be fixed or replaced.

The state has said it will pay for the costs to the school districts.

"There is nothing more important than protecting the health and safety of our children," state Education Commissioner MaryEllen Elia said in a statement. "We look forward to continuing our partnership with the Department of Health as we work together to identify and remediate potential hazards to our students' health."

The study found that 86 percent of the roughly 256,000 water outlets tested so far in schools outside of New York City had lead levels below 15 micrograms per liter.

The New York City Department of Education has not completed its testing program yet and isn't expected to until the summer, although preliminary results showed 91 percent of the faucets to be safe.

"I am encouraged by the tremendous effort put forth by so many schools to comply with this new regulation in only four months," state Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker said. "As we work to help correct problem areas identified in this report, we will also focus on bringing the remaining schools into compliance."

Find out about districts in Albany, Rensselaer, Saratoga and Schenectady counties on the Schools blog here. Access the state report's data on your school district at health.data.ny.gov.
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Saratoga Springs

The state Attorney General's Office has refused to grant the approval needed to carry out a controversial three-way land deal involving the city's plans to build an east side fire station.

In a Jan. 17 letter to Michael Toohey, the attorney for Congregation & Yeshiva Pardes Yosef D'Chasidei Belz president Joel Aronson, the Attorney General's Office said its investigation determined that it had not been provided all the details in the proposed sale.

Under state law, a religious corporation must secure the attorney general's permission to sell any property it owns  in this case, a 14.48-acre lot on Union Avenue the city was to buy.

The Attorney General's Office said the petition to sell the land to the city didn't say that Ben Aronson, the third party involved in the deal, is the son of Joel Aronson, the Yeshiva's president.

"Undisclosed in the petition is the fact that the Yeshiva's sale of the Union Avenue lot to the city was contingent on the sale by the city of a valuable piece of real estate to a related party," Assistant Attorney General Nathan M. Courtney said in the letter.

The state's investigation determined that the city in order to obtain the Union Avenue acreage for $200,000 from the Yeshiva led by Joel Aronson had to sell its 0.48-acre Collamer lot for $775,000 to the adjacent Algonquin Building LLC, which is controlled by Ben Aronson.

Toohey did not respond Friday to a request for comment.

The Yeshiva may still go to court to get permission to sell the Union Avenue land, but it will have to notify the Attorney General's Office.

The proposed sale of the city's Collamer lot at was put together by Public Safety Commissioner Christian Mathiesen.

Mathiesen expressed disappointment but also surprise that the decision took nearly 2 1/2 years. Assuming that the Aronsons do not appeal, the city can at least move on and assess its options toward a plan to resolve a pressing public safety need, he said.

Former Public Works Commissioner Thomas McTygue said the state's findings reveal the problems with the swap. He was joined by former Mayor Raymond Watkin and former Finance Commissioner Remigia Foy in opposing the sale.

"It's something the city should have done more research on," McTygue said.

The Attorney General's Office opened an investigation in late 2014 into the request for proposals for the sale 42-space Collamer parking lot. The 2013 RFP required anyone interested in buying the parking lot to sell land on Union Avenue to the city for a long-sought east side fire station.

The Yeshiva requested permission to sell its Union Avenue land on Oct. 1, 2014, according to the state,

The only proposal was made by the Algonquin Building LLC. The Algonquin Building is located at 510 Broadway, while the Collamer lot is at 500 Broadway.

kcrowe@timesunion.com  518-454-5084  @KennethCrowe
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Washington

President Donald Trump signed an executive order Friday making major changes to America's policies on refugees and immigration.

Syria

Trump's order directs the State Department to stop issuing visas to Syrian nationals and halts the processing of Syrian refugees. That will remain in effect until Trump determines that enough security changes have been made to ensure that would-be terrorists can't exploit weaknesses in the current vetting system.

The president also called on the Pentagon and the State Department to create a plan for safe zones in and around Syria to offer protection for Syrians fleeing the war there.

Safe zones were considered by the Obama administration years ago, but ruled out because of the cost, manpower and other resources required to implement them. Those challenges have only grown since Russia introduced advanced air defense systems into Syria.

That means U.S. personnel could end up confronting the Russians or Syrian President Bashar Assad's forces if the United States tries to prevent Assad's warplanes from operating in the zones.

Refugees

Trump ordered a four-month suspension to America's broader refugee program. The suspension is intended to provide time to review how refugees are vetted before they can resettle in the U.S.

Trump's order also cuts the number of refugees the U.S. plans to accept this budget year by more than half, to 50,000 people.

During the last budget year the U.S. accepted 84,995 refugees, including 12,587 people from Syria. President Barack Obama had set the current refugee limit at 110,000.

The temporary halt to refugee processing includes exceptions for people claiming religious persecution, so long as their religion is a minority faith in their country. That could apply to Christians from Muslim-majority countries.

Exteme vetting

Trump's order did not spell out specifically what additional steps he wants the Homeland Security and State departments to add to the country's vetting system for refugees. Instead he directed officials to review the refugee application and approval process to find any other security measures that can be added to prevent people who pose a threat from using the refugee program.

During the Obama administration, vetting for refugees included in-person interviews overseas, where refugees provided biographical details about themselves, including their families, friendships, social or political activities, employment, phone numbers, email accounts and more. They also provided biometric information, including fingerprints. Syrians were subject to additional, classified controls, and processing for that group routinely took years to complete.

Other immigration

Trump's executive order suspends all immigration from countries with terrorism concerns for 90 days. It was unclear from the law cited in the order which countries would be affected, though a draft of the order obtained by The Associated Press pointed to a legal provision that identified Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen, all majority-Muslim countries, for at least 30 days. The order also calls for Homeland Security and State Department officials, along with the director of national intelligence, to review what information the government needs to fully vet would-be visitors and come up with a list of countries that don't provide it. The order says the government will give countries 60 days to start providing the information or citizens from those countries will be barred from traveling to the United States.

Barring any travel to the U.S. from those seven countries, even temporarily, appears to at least partially fulfill a campaign promise Trump made to ban Muslims from coming to the United States until assurances can be made that visitors are properly vetted.
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Warsaw, Poland

Jewish and Christian leaders prayed over the ruins of gas chambers at Auschwitz-Birkenau as some warned on International Holocaust Remembrance Day of rising xenophobic hatred against Jews, Muslims and others.

Camp survivors gathered Friday with political leaders and representatives of Poland's Jewish community at the site where Germany murdered about 1.1 million people during World War II, mostly Jews from across Europe, but also Poles, Roma, and others.

Dozens of Auschwitz survivors began a day of commemorations by placing wreaths and flowers at the infamous execution wall on the 72nd anniversary of the camp's liberation by Soviet soldiers.
THE ISSUE:

The new president sets about following through on a deeply troubling agenda.

THE STAKES:

Can state leaders find ways to stand up to these assaults on social and scientific progress, and human compassion?

More Information To comment: tuletters@timesunion.com or at http://blog.timesunion.com/opinion See More Collapse

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None of Donald Trump's many executive orders and tweets since he took office included a formal declaration of war, but the new president has effectively declared a whole host of wars nonetheless.

A war on Americans' health care.

A war on women.

A war on science.

A war on public information.

A war on frightened people fleeing civil war and violent extremism.

A war on immigrants, and a war on any American city, town or village that shows them compassion.

Hyperbole? Consider:

Mr. Trump and Congress are moving to dismantle the Affordable Care Act with no clear plan to replace it, threatening the health care of 23 million people. With their accompanying plan to defund Planned Parenthood, they would harm close to 3 million more, mostly women. The Trump administration has been spreading fear among government climate scientists with strange questionnaires about their work; it seems to be purging references to climate change from government websites; and at least temporarily barred the Environmental Protection Agency from issuing grants and contracts.

All the while, the president's chief spokesman spouts false information about the relatively low turnout for the inauguration and Mr. Trump fumes about non-existent widespread voter fraud that he claims cost him the popular vote. He orders the building of an absurd, costly wall on the Mexican border, and is taking steps to block refugees from Syria and people from certain other predominantly Muslim nations. He has threatened cities that fail to cooperate with his planned roundup of millions of undocumented immigrants with federal funding cuts.

So where do people of good conscience turn when a president wields executive power so wantonly and a Congress ruled entirely by his own party shows no inclination to stop him?

Sign up for The Knick  Get the latest news and features with our afternoon newsletter.

We look, in part, to New York leaders willing to stand up to him. And, to their credit, some have started doing just that.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo, for example, told insurance companies that they must continue to fully cover at least some forms of contraception that were covered under the ACA, as well as medically necessary abortions. State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman has called for legislation to make contraception coverage the law. On a separate front, Mr. Schneiderman issued guidelines to communities that choose to be "sanctuary cities" and not have their police be used as extensions of Mr. Trump's planned immigration force, which could severely chill police-community relations and make people afraid to even report crimes.

The governor, too, has declared that even if Obamacare is repealed, New York will not simply let an estimated 2.7 million people who have benefited from it in this state go without health coverage.

But the governor's vow could be costly to fulfill. New York may have to develop its own version of the ACA, as Massachusetts did in a precursor known as Romneycare. New York stands to lose $3.7 billion if the ACA is repealed; counties could lose nearly $600 million. Such shortfalls could require tax hikes  which would likely meet resistance in the Republican-controlled Senate. But with polls showing most New Yorkers  and most Americans  favor the benefits, if not the mandates, of Obamacare, there certainly should be a way to devise a politically palatable state solution.

And there will be more challenges ahead. Mr. Trump and the Republican-controlled Congress are intent on turning back the clock on reproductive rights through reactionary appointments to the Supreme Court. For his part, Mr. Cuomo has appointed a mostly center-left Court of Appeals, which could at least hold the line on abortion rights in this state. As we have urged before, however, the state Legislature must codify the right of a woman to choose whether to have an abortion in state law. And, again, the Senate needs to not simply say no.

With the denial of climate science threatening to become a new religion in Washington at least for the next few years, New York must also continue to strive to be a national leader on clean alternative energy. It can do this in various ways, such as urging the other eight states in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, a program that limits carbon pollution from power plants, to increase the pace of emissions cuts. It can use that money, and other energy-related funds, to stimulate private investment in alternative energy enterprises and to help homeowners make energy-saving repairs and improvements. This is not just smart science, but wise economic investment that could put New York energy businesses on the cutting edge.

Although it might not seem like a defense against reactionary policies, New York must also be transparent and ethical in what it does. That includes looking at its electoral systems, from making voting (and registering to vote) as easy as possible to reining in the corrupting influence of big money in campaigns. New York needs to be a model for the rest of the country on voting rights, fair elections and non-partisan redistricting. It can't afford to have its image tarnished by corruption.

And finally, New York needs to look beyond its borders and stand up for others when it can. Mr. Schneiderman should continue to use his office to challenge improper federal actions in court, including joining with other like-minded states in protecting civil rights, the environment, and other hard-won achievements.

Mr. Trump has already launched dispiriting assaults on New York and American values and made progress on a host of fronts, and we're barely a week into his presidency. But if the new president has made people of good conscience feel like refugees themselves, New York, with strong, decent leadership, can be the beacon to its citizens that it has long been to the world.
By Press Trust of India: Panaji, Jan 28 (PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi today heaped praises on Manohar Parrikar, saying he was thankful to Goa for giving such a strong Defence Minister.

"I am thankful to Goa for giving such a strong Defence Minister to the country. Entire world is now discussing surgical strikes," Modi said addressing a BJP rally here.

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Before moving to the Centre as a Defence Minister, Parrikar had served as Chief Minister of Goa, after the party secured a mandate in 2012 Assembly polls.

"Some people are still studying the surgical strikes. How did the jawans reach there? I said when I went to Lahore, I went during the day, but still the world was wondering how did I reach there. Agar Hindustan ek bar thaan leta hai to uske jawan parakram karke dikhate hai (IfIndia resolves, then its soldiers show bravery)," said the Prime Minister.

Meanwhile, Modi also said his government is for the poor and working to root out corruption.

"We have began campaign against corruption across the country. Common man is never involved in the corruption. Big people are involved in corruption. Now I am being harassed because they are facing inconvenience because of me," said the Prime Minister.

"Modi is removing everything which they have collected during last 70 years. This government is for the poor. We are taking firm steps to uplift the poor. Our steps would be strict but they would be for the welfare of the country and not for political benefits. We are making honest attempt to free the country from corruption," he said.

The Prime Minister further said there has been a fashion in the country to give speeches on eradicating poverty, corruption.

"But when you take any step to eradicate corruption, they are the ones to face the first attack," he quipped.

He pointed out that in Karnataka, new notes, black money and gold of more than Rs 150 crore was found at a Congress ministers house.

"Karnataka government was not even bothered about it. They have not even asked that minister to resign. He has not even been issued the notice," added Modi. PTI RPS NRB KIS

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Suicide prevention and Self-Harm Crisis Centre 'Darkness Into Light' are planning an Annual Fundraiser walk/run starting in Sean Treacy Park, Tipperary Town on Saturday, May 6th this year, from 4.15am - 6am. Below is the route that will be taken. Walkers are going to start off at Sean Treacy Park take a right & go straight up the hill to the traffic lights. Take the left & head towards Noels Butchers, veer left towards the Galbally road & just before Computer Solutions we will take the left out the Galbally road and will take the first left off the galbally road & will go down a small bit and take the first left again & will be coming in by Scalaheen & will take the left at the stop sign & follow the road to the roundabout & at the roundabout we will take the 2nd exit at the roundabout & head down to the Bansha road & once we go under the bridge & meet the Bansha road we will go left & will take the left on to link road & will follow the road past supervalu & at the end of the road we will take the left and straight up over the railway & will finish back at Sean Treacy Park.

Darkness Into Light will take place at more than 150 venues across Ireland and all over the world in the early hours of Saturday 6th May 2017. Last year 130,000 of you shared the light and we would like to thank you once again for your inspirational support and for your fantastic feats in raising funds for and awareness of the services that we offer at Pieta House to those in suicidal crisis, people who engage in self-harm and those bereaved by suicide. Registration for DIL 2017 will be open in early March, so keep checking this website and also www.pieta.ie for updates.
Scoil Ailbhe CBS primary school in Thurles and St Michael's NS Holycross are the toast of mid Tipperary following their victories in the annual Credit Union quiz held at The Premier Hall on Friday evening.

Thirty seven teams participated in the quiz with a huge buzz and scores of well wishers in attendance to cheer on the teams. Quizmistress Breda Manton had all the questions, but it was the Scoil Ailbhe boys, looked after by Deputy Principal Ms.Deirdre Lanigan who had all the answers for the senior quiz, while the boys and girls of St Michael's National School, Holycross under the tutelage of teacher Ms. Siobhan Doran came out on top in the junior quiz after winning a tie breaker with Ballingarry National School.

All the participants were treated to a 'goody-bag' on the night while for those in attendance there were refreshments aplenty thanks to Thurles Credit Union.

This is one of the best school events of the calendar and everything was organised to perfection thanks to the management and staff of Thurles Credit Union. The winning teams were congratulated by all and now move on to the chapter finals. But, all who participated in what was generally regarded as a very testing quiz, were winners on the night and deserving of great praise for their efforts.

Mol an oige agus tiocfaidh si.
A look back on all of our reporting of the Delphi murders since 2017

crime
By Press Trust of India: From Lalit K Jha

Washington, Jan 28 (PTI) US President Donald Trump has invited Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe for a meeting at the White House next month, as he reaffirmed US "iron-clad" commitment to Japans security.

The invitation was extended to Abe during the telephonic conversation that the two leaders had this morning -- the first between the two leaders after Trump was sworn in as the 45th President of the United States on January 20.

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"During call with Japanese Prime Minister Abe @POTUS invited him to a meeting at White House on February 10th," White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer tweeted.

Abe has also met Trump in New York after he won the November 8 general elections.

The telephonic conversation comes just days after Trump formally withdrew the US from the Trans-Pacific Partnership. The US participation was seen as key to the agreement.

In a readout of the phone call, the White House said Trump and Abe discussed the importance of the US-Japan alliance and cooperation on regional and global issues.

"President Trump affirmed the iron-clad US commitment to ensuring the security of Japan," the White House said.

They also discussed the significance of Secretary of Defence James Mattiss upcoming visit to the region, including Japan.

Trump and Abe said they would consult and cooperate on the threat posed by North Korea, the White House said.

"The two leaders also committed to deepen the bilateral trade and investment relationship. President Trump and Prime Minister Abe agreed to meet in Washington, on February 10," said the readout of the phone call. PTI LKJ ASK ASK

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Robot vacuum buying guide: What you need to know

Not sure where to start your search for a robot vacuum? It doesn't matter how little or how much you want to spend, there's a cleaning robot out there for everyone.
"Police were called to the sound of shots fired shortly before 10:00 Friday night. Officers located a male suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported to an area hospital where he died several hours later."

The deadly numbers for a bloody Friday night continue to rise.The latest:Deets . . .And once again we'rethat we were last year at this date on the calendar.Developing . . .
"As Trump taps members and supporters of these organizations for his administration or lets them influence its policies, media have a greater responsibility to properly identify these groups and their members, specifically: Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach -- who works as legal counsel to the legal arm of FAIR, the Immigration Reform Law Institute (IRLI) -- influenced Trumps first two anti-immigration executive orders."

argues for terminology when talking about the President's team . . . And a possible contender for Governor in Kansas. Checkit:Read more:
By Press Trust of India: From Lalit K Jha

Washington, Jan 27 (PTI) US President Donald Trump will speak with leaders of Russia, Germany and France tomorrow, the White House announced today, covering major leaders of Europe.

White House Press Secretary Speak Spicer in a tweet said that Trump would be speaking by phone with three top European leaders: Vladimir Putin of Russia, Angela Merkel of Germany and Francois Hollande of France, thus making the most of the first week.

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After becoming the 45th US President last Friday, Trump has so far spoken with leaders of Canada, Mexico, Egypt and Israel.

Trump also spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He is hosting the British Prime Minister Theresa May at the White House. PTI LKJ NSA

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"Nick Haines, Mary Sanchez, Dave Helling, Steve Vockrodt and Mike Ferguson discuss KCI appearing on a list of infrastructure projects for the Trump administration, the impact of the Women's March, debate over allowing guns on college campuses, Gov. Greitens blocking concealed weapons in the statehouse, Lynn Jenkins withdrawing from politics, Jason Kander's thoughts on voter fraud & Ventura's death."

Let's start Saturday by taking a peek at all the mainstream media pundits providing mainstream opinion on the top stories of the week.Actually, this episode was pretty decent in as much as it provides a diverse look at the myriad of progressive opinion on local topics that not really reflected by voters at all.Here's the description . . .You decide . . .
"GOP Congressman Sam Graves has REPEATEDLY expressed his skepticism about the (new airport) project touted by City Hall . . . The newspaper wants readers to believe that Prez Trump is going to go into a GOP Congressman's backyard, help finance a new airport just to help out a Democratic Mayor who has been campaigning for Hillary Clinton for the past two years???"

Earlier this week we wrote. . .And so to followup and kinda cover their mistake, here's the latest update from the newspaper desperately trying to pitch a billion dollar project:You decide . . .
The extreme-left terrorist organizations FAI-IRF with a manifesto take full responsibility for six arson attacks in Athens. The attacks were against two bank, one private security company and three cars of diplomatic missions.

In the manifesto they are threatening the police, prosecutors, journalists, political party officials and they are promising that they will come back.

They do not forget to dedicate their attacks to the recently arrested terrorsts Pola Roupa and Konstantina Athanasopoulou.

Read more here.

RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report
Hellas Gold plans to begin operation of its mines in Olympiada Chalkidiki in April, the company's officials told reporters, adding that the official opening will be in June at a ceremony which will be invited Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomeos and the President of the Republic Prokopis Pavlopoulos.

Hellas Gold executives stressed that only a few formal licenses remaining for the start of the unit. With the opening of the Olympiada mines, gold production will resume in the country after 22 years, and together the mines Olympiada and Skouries 'can make Greece one of the largest gold producing countries in the European Union".

Between 2017 and 2022 gold production in Olympiada is estimated to be 72,000 ounces of gold per year, plus 55,000 ounces of production of other metals. After 2022 production is expected to increase to 170,000 ounces annually. Production in Skouries is expected to begin in 2019 and by 2027 it is expected to produce a total of 1.4 million ounces of gold and 620 million tons of copper.

Referring to the long standing controversy associated with the licensing of the metallurgical plant flash smelting, they stressed that they seek resolution of the dispute with technical dialogue rather than litigation. As is known, the technical study for the unit has been rejected by the Environment and Energy Ministry. The company has appealed for that matter to the Council of State.

The company executives estimate that this year the activity of Hellas Gold will create 1,000 new jobs in companies undertaking work as subcontractors. They also said that investments of 150 million US dollars were planned for this year and the company has so far invested a total of 750 million dollars in the project.

Read more here.

RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report
Daimler Benz is said to be interested in acquiring local start-up Taxibeat, one of the most successful Greek companies set up in the years of the financial crisis

Daimler Benz is said to be interested in acquiring local start-up Taxibeat, one of the most successful Greek companies set up in the years of the financial crisis, through its MyTaxi subsidiary. The German car giant is offering a particularly attractive price, even when one considers that Taxibeats annual growth rate stands at around 180 percent.

Taxibeat was founded in May 2011 by Nikos Drandakis and today it cooperates with 7,000 drivers in Athens. Besides the Greek capital, Taxibeat is also dominant in the capital of Peru, Lima, a market it first penetrated two years ago, and is expanding to the Peruvian cities of Cusco and Arequipa.

Daimler Benz is said to be ready to offer a price close to 40 million euros and is mainly interested in Taxibeats Peruvian business, as Lima is the companys main source of income, with 15,000 drivers and 800,000 users registered there. In total, Taxibeat has over 1 million users in the two countries it operates in.

Taxibeats service is particularly popular in Peru because it offers security in city transport, which constitutes a crucial parameter in that market.

Daimler, known worldwide through its Mercedes-Benz and Smart car brands, has recently turned its focus on car leasing and new technologies too.

Read more here.

RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report
She scooped the story of Hitlers invasion of Poland on her third day on the job and unmasked Soviet spy Kim Philby

Any big journalistic scoop requires a combination of luck and hustle. Its only natural that Clare Hollingworth had a lot of both when she scored one of the greatest scoops of the 20th century.

Hollingworth was born to a industrialist who took her to visit major historical battlefields as a girl. As a young woman, she showed a rebellious spark, breaking off an engagement and going to work for the League of Nations as a secretary. From there, she jumped to work for a British refugee organization that sent her to Poland after the Allies sanctioned Hitlers seizure of the Sudetenland. Thanks to an old but still valid German visa shed gotten for a ski vacation, she was able to enter Germany and shepherd refugees to Poland and then on to safety.

That work brought her a measure of fameshe arranged the evacuation of more than 3,500 Jews and dissidents, earning the moniker the Scarlet Pimpernel, after Baroness Orczys novel, according to Timebut she was abruptly sacked in July 1939, apparently because British intelligence felt she was granting visas to too many people who were either politically or ethnically undesirable. She returned to the U.K., got herself accredited by The Daily Telegraph, and went back to Poland.

Back in the field in August of that year, she borrowed a car from an ex-boyfriend in the British Foreign Service, surmising that the Union Jack on the vehicle would get her into Germany without trouble. She was right.

The border guard was a bit surprised when they saw the Union flag flying on the car, but they let me in, she told the Telegraph in 2011. I stopped to buy aspirin and white wine and things you couldnt get inside Poland. And then I was driving back along a valley and there was a hessian screen up so you couldnt look down into the valley. Suddenly, there was a great gust of wind which blew the sacking from its moorings, and I looked into the valley and saw scores, if not hundreds, of tanks.

She drove back to Poland and told her ex-boyfriend. He wired the government in London. Hollingworth, meanwhile, filed her dispatch to the Telegraph reporting Hitlers invasion of Polandbreaking the news of the start of World War II. She was 27 years old and had been a working reporter for three days.

The story, which ran without a byline under the heading From our own correspondent, according to the newspaper custom of the day, is often described in the British press as the scoop of the century.

More than beginners luck

It would prove to be more than beginners luck. Hollingworth, who died Tuesday in Hong Kong at the age of 105, went on to rack up plenty of other journalistic exploits over the course of a long career. In 1942, Field Marshall Bernard Montgomery barred female reporters from the front lines in Egypt, so Hollingworth got a credential from an American magazine, Time, so she could continue reporting. (Hollingworth didnt have much regard for Clare Booth Luce, a journalist who married Time founder Henry Luce, nor for Martha Gellhorn, the swashbuckling war correspondent who was for a time married to Ernest Hemingway, regarding them both as prissy elitists, according to The Washington Post.)

She also reported from Vietnam, India, and Pakistan, and was the first to interview Mohammad Reza Pahlavi when he became shah of Iranand was among the last to interview him after he was deposed. She learned to fly and to jump out of planes.

But Hollingworths other monumental scoop came in 1963, when her acquaintance Kim Philby, a British intelligence agent who worked as a reporter as cover, didnt show up for a dinner party in Beirut. Using port records, Hollingworth determined that Philby had boarded a Soviet ship bound for Odessa; Philby, a double agent for the Soviets, was defecting. She wrote the story, but her employer at the time, The Guardian, held it, concerned the account was too explosive. In typical style, Hollingworth waited until the editor holding the story was out and convinced his deputy to publish it.

Hollingworth went to Asia in the 1970s, covering Maos death and other stories in the region. She mostly lived in Hong Kong from the 1980s onward. She celebrated her birthday at the Foreign Correspondent Club there in October. As late as 2004, The Guardian reported that while Hollingworth did not have a formal job with the Telegraph, her final employer, she did not think of herself as retired and called the desk in London daily to check inand had, until recently, made a habit of occasionally sleeping on the floor, just to make sure she wasnt going soft.

When Hollingworth turned 100, her eyesight failing but her vigor unabated, she was asked what she would do if she were young.

I should look through the papers and say, Wheres the most dangerous place to go? because it always makes a good story, she told the Telegraph. Nevertheless, she said: I must admit that I enjoy being in a war Im not brave, I just enjoy it.

If that statement was plainly ridiculous, Hollingworth could be forgiven one small liberty with the truth after a lifetime of unparalleled reporting.

Source: theatlantic.com

Photo Source: flickr.com

Read more here.

RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report
Ameeri Industries, a leading player in the manufacturing, electrical contracting and trading sector, is set to showcase its portfolio of innovative 'Made in Bahrain' products at the upcoming Gulf Industry Fair 2017.



The Northern Gulf's leading business-to-business industrial show, Gulf Industry Fair is being organised by Hilal Conferences and Exhibitions (HCE) from February 7 to 9 under the patronage of HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the Prime Minister of Bahrain.



Ameeri Industries has two manufacturing plants, including the largest electrical manufacturing plant located in BIIP operating under the brand Ametech which is a channel panel builder partner of ABB and exclusive partners of Himel.



It is also the exclusive manufacturer of the Amgard brand in Bahrain. The brand is well known for its tough road crash barriers and streetlight poles, alongside a variety of other products.



Adel Ameeri, the chairman of Ameeri Industries, said: "Gulf Industry Fair has been a great platform for business to reconnect and showcase advanced industrial products. Ameeri will be using this platform to showcase some new exciting products recently launched and tested under the Ametech and Amgard brands."



Ameeri, he stated, will be launching the new solar energy system solution under the Ametech brand.



The companys vision is to be a homegrown contributor to Bahrains national investment in renewable energy, he added.



Jubran Abdulrahman, the managing director of HCE, said: "GIF visitors will be interested to view Ameeri Industries' new solar system solution. Their presence at Gulf Industry Fair 2017 will encourage more industries to showcase products Manufactured in Bahrain'."



"The diversification of Bahrains economy requires the development of a strong manufacturing base. Companies such as Ameeri are leading by example," remarked Abdulrahman.



Gulf Industry Fair 2017 is being sponsored by Aluminium Bahrain (Alba) and the Bahrain Petroleum Company (Bapco), in association with Noga. Majaal and Naffco will be supporting the Industrial Facilities and Fire and Safety zones of the event respectively.



Supporting organisations for the expo include AHK Saudi Arabia, Indias PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the German Saudi Arabian Liaison for Economic Affairs, the Saudi British Economic Offset Programme and Bahrain Industrial Association.-TradeArabia News Service
A surge in consumer demand for knowledge of food origin and source is now a key factor for successful sales and marketing in the global food industry, according to the latest research released ahead of Gulfood 2017 expo in Dubai, UAE.

The top food event will be held from February 26 to March 2 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).



The foods origin is now second on a consumers list, behind only sell-by dates, when it comes to purchasing, and leading international supermarket chains are addressing the issue through transparent sourcing advertising, stated the survey by Opinion Matters.



The awareness of different foods from around the world has increased dramatically as a result of globalisation, with global tourism to reach 1.5 billion by 2020 and 65 per cent of households worldwide connected online, it stated.



Transparency on sourcing is taking centre stage in the food-value chain and World Food recognises demand for nations to build brand-trust that is now paramount to consumers, remarked Trixie LohMirmand, the senior VP (Exhibitions & Events Management) at DWTC.



The new sectorised format of the show will create better access for visitors to reach their target products and with World Food housed in its own dedicated sector, exhibitors will be able to offer greater insight into origin and source of their produce, noted LohMirmand.



This rise in awareness has resulted in a strong response from eager exhibitors for the World Food  one of eight specialist sectors in the newly evolved format of Gulfood 2017, she added.



The study said one trend seen across the globe is product knowledge and value, as consumers become more price conscious and increasingly mistrust brands, especially those from the largest global food manufacturers.



There is also a shift towards more "authentic, niche and natural products, with people seeking brands that they see as upholding key values. In addition, a growing number of consumers trust organic products to be healthier, more natural and greener but also favour smaller niche food manufacturers over large food multinationals, it added.



The Asia-Pacific and Middle East and Africa regions are the main global growth drivers of packaged food globally.



Nations from East to West, North to South have signed up to showcase country-specific products, services and business opportunities at the 22nd edition of the worlds largest food and hospitality show, which will feature 120 national pavilions, said LohMirmand.



South America is out in force at Gulfood 2017 with Minerva Foods, one of the continents biggest players in the production and sale of fresh beef and its bi-products.



With the Middle East and Africa so important to the company, representing 35 per cent of the companys international sales in the last twelve months ended in September 2016, the firm is now developing new, market-specific products, stated Minerva chief commercial operator, Iain Mars.



We have a plan with Salic (Saudi Agricultural and Livestock Investment Company) to address the food security issue in this region through a new distribution system focused on high-quality food supply, noted Mars.



According to him, the Middle East region faces a lot of challenges, including the non-favourable climate and limited availability of water, as well as the political insecurity in some countries.



"Despite the influence of urbanisation, westernisation, population growth and better purchasing power contributing to an increase in regional meat consumption, the elevated cost of production has historically limited investments in meat production and created a higher dependency on imports," he pointed out.



According to him, all these factors increase the potential for South America to become the main supplier for the Middle East, exporting high-quality products with efficiency and at competitive prices.



"The change in format can only help as the dedicated World Food sector will allow us to better showcase what we have to offer," he noted.



Mars is tipping Halal and organic foods to be the Middle Easts premier growth sectors, adding: Organic and grass-fed demand should increase following a shift in global behaviour towards lean and natural products.



Brazilian interests at Gulfood will be boosted by the presence of the Arab Brazilian Chamber of Commerce, with spokesperson Michel Alaby citing the Arab world as the second major importer of Brazilian foodstuff after China - regional sales hit $8.68 billion in 2015.



Alaby said: Among the most important Brazilian foodstuff products exported to the Arab countries are meat, sugar, cereals, oil seeds, coffee, milk and fruits. Brazilian companies are developing their knowledge of the Arab countries and features such as the Halal certificates for, but not limited to, meat and its bi-products.



Ireland, meanwhile, hopes a strong reputation in the provenance of its beef and poultry will boost regional sales, during Gulfood 2017.



A highlight of the Bord Bia Ireland pavilion will be the showcasing of the Golden Irish eggs brand, with the Emerald Isles food board eager to leverage the countrys product pedigree.



Golden Irish spokesman Brian Eivers, said: "We are focused on offering customers a range of high-quality, 100 per cent Republic of Ireland BRC Grade A eggs. With a strong customer based across both retail and foodservice industries, were well placed to service the needs of a growing market."



The brand, operating in the GCC since 2014, were the first to introduce Irish eggs to the market and are now moving into the supply of boiled and liquid egg to enhance their stronghold. The World Food sector at Gulfood 2017 will also see the launch of a new, bilingual Golden Irish Organic 10 Pack designed especially for the Middle East.



Weve seen significant growth in our organic offering and created this product to offer customers greater options, said Eivers, adding to our range of beautiful colour coded retail packs



Ireland is eager to showcase its reputation for providing great quality food at the Bord Bia Ireland pavilion, this will be championed by dry-aged grass-fed beef producer John Stone Beef.



Allan Morris, its Managing Director, said Irelands standard, yet stand-out beef rearing processes gives it the edge with increasingly quality conscious consumers.



All Middle East countries are growing in terms of their desire for safe, sustainable and natural foods for their consumers. We are keen to show in the World Food segment why Ireland is well positioned to help them achieve this within their marketplaces.



At the show, John Stone will roll out a host of new products all falling in line with its strict Halal protocols.



Morris added: "We are proud to say that we are the first meat company in Europe that has been granted the National Halal Mark. This mark is an assurance of quality and verification that the highest Halal standards have been achieved.

The dairy sector, meanwhile, is a key focus for Belgiums Flanders' Agricultural Marketing Board, which will have six dairies on show, under its White Gold from Europe banner."



Latvia, making its fourth Gulfood foray, is fielding its largest national delegation to date, with 20 companies under the banner of the countrys Ministry of Agriculture  up from seven producers three years ago. And the Latvians have high hopes of new business.



Our aim is to cover all countries in the Middle East region and to introduce our high-quality and healthy products, explained ministry of agriculture spokesperson Daina Saktina.



A high share of all Latvian products can be evaluated as eco and healthy-life products. We know that clients and customers from the region have high demands for food quality and we can satisfy these. We dont have many mass production companies with average products. We have smaller, diverse companies which prioritise quality, uniqueness and healthy life products, she added.



World Food is one of eight dedicated segments now housed within Gulfood to ensure buyers can more easily and effectively navigate the giant show. The other features are: beverages; dairy; fats & oils; health, wellness & free-from; pulses, grains & cereals; meat & poultry and Power Brands.-TradeArabia News Service
Mukhtar Ansar, who spent several years in jail, was inducted by Mayawati into the BSP ahead of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly election.

By Siraj Qureshi: With muscleman Mukhtar Ansari finally joining the Bahujan Samaj Party, the inmates at Agra Central Jail, where he was incarcerated for several years, are hoping that Ansari reaches the UP Assembly. According to the inmates, Ansari's behaviour towards them was exemplary and even the prison officials vouch for the muscleman's magnanimity towards the others.

However, outside the prison, the general mood is that of surprise as BSP supporters were not expecting Mayawati to induct someone with such a chequered past in her party. Taking advantage of this fact, rivals of the BSP have formed a new slogan "Ab toh gunde chadh gaye haathi par, kyon na goli chalegi chhati par".

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The slogan is a play on a chant BSP supporters had invented to target the Samajwadi Party for the lack of law and order in the state - "Chadh gundon ki chhati par, muhar lagegi haathi par". Interestingly, Ansari was once kicked out of the BSP by Mayawati earlier for his involvement in criminal activities. and now she is completely ignoring his criminal record and has accepted him back in the party.

Also read: Gangster Mukhtar Ansari joins BSP, Mayawati says he has been wrongly framed

TARGETTING MUSLIM VOTES?

Bhartiya Muslim Vikas Parishad chairman Sami Aghai criticised Mayawati telling India Today that while she continually harps on the lack of law and order under the Samajwadi Party's rule, the BSP supremo was quick to make a comprpmise and induct a criminal like Ansari once the Congress and Samwajadi Party joined hands for the Uttar Pradesh assembly election. Aghai added that inducting Ansari and the BSP giving over 100 tickets to Muslims are signs that Mayawati is hoping to polarise Muslim votes in her favour.

Social activist and journalist Sameer expresses a similar understading of the BSP supremo's moves, saying she appears to have panicked after the SP-Congress alliance was announced and that accepting Mukhtar Ansari back into the party is her way of undoing the damage to her Muslim vote bank caused by the SP and Congress coming together.

However, this step has only served to destroy the image that Mayawati had been building for herself that she cares highly for law and order in the state, Sameer added.

Also read: Uttar Pradesh election: Congress-SP tie up rude shock for Mayawati, BJP banks on reverse polarisation

'NOT JUST BSP'

Senior Dalit leader Rajkumar Nagrath said that all political parties appear to have let go of their ideals for the upcoming election. Every party is fielding people with criminal pasts in the state and now the BSP has also joined the bandwagon after the inclusion of Mukhtar Ansari, Nagrath said.

Social activist Vishal Sharma said that both SP and BSP are heavily dependent on Muslim votes and are always devising ways to bring in more Muslims into their fold. Sharma also pointed out that there is a new breed of educated and well-established Muslims active on the social media and this generation's thinking is different from the traditional mindset. This new generation does not wish to be represented by criminals and in these elections, the votes of this generation will hold great importance as the group is active both on social media as well as on the ground, Sharma added.

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Also read: Uttar Pradesh: Ram Mandir 'within constitutional framework' BJP announces sops for poll-bound state

--- ENDS ---
A little upstate town in New York is known to be the best place to converse with the dead. Moreover, the place has a century-old organization of healers, seances, and medium.

Lily Dale is a community located in the Town of Pomfret on the east side of Cassadaga Lake. It is next to the Village of Cassadaga. Lily Dale is located in southwestern New York State and is one hour southwest of Buffalo, halfway to the Pennsylvania boundary. Lily Dale's year-round population is estimated to be 275. Every year approximately 22,000 visitors come for classes, workshops, public church services and mediumship demonstrations, lectures, and private engagements with mediums.

Like many villages, Lily Dale has a post office, volunteer fire department, library and a playground. It has a coffee shop, two restaurants, two gift shops, a few of guesthouses and a museum. For 133 years, however, Lily Dale is the home of the Lily Dale Assembly. It is a religious organization of mediums and healers who claim to have the ability to convey messages from those who have passed on to those still living.

Ron Nagy, Lily Dale historian said the tiny village, is now considered as the world's largest center for the Science, Philosophy, and Religion of Spiritualism. It started out as a summer campground for Spiritualists in the 1870s. Afterward, they bought 20 acres of farmland for $1,845 and called their meeting place Cassadaga Lake Free Association, then altered the name to The City of Light. In the early 1900s, they embraced the name Lily Dale because of a large amount of water lilies on the lake.

According to Syracuse, Lily Dale has been the center of many speculations including an HBO special, newspaper stories, more than a half-dozen books, a Canadian documentary that attracts 22,000 visitors during its nine or ten week summer season. Lily Dale's visitors come from different places ranging from England, Kuwait, Australia, Italy, Germany, and Japan, most of the visitors, however, are from Canada.

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Residents in London are now facing the highest air pollution alert in years after the air condition in the UK capital hit 197 micrograms per cubic metre for particulate matter on the Air Quality Index last Monday. The extreme cold weather, combined with the smoke emanating from land transport vehicles and wood from residential wood burners are said to be the culprit for the unhealthy air state.

Health officials in the UK are now very concerned since their air pollution is now worse than Beijing, China, who only hit 190 in air pollution readings. The mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has already issued a statement to the public.

"Today the shameful state of London's toxic air has meant that I am forced to trigger the first 'very high' air pollution alert under my new comprehensive alert system," he said. "This is the highest level of alert and everyone - from the most vulnerable to the physically fit - may need to take precautions to protect themselves from the filthy air."

Wood burning in Britain is particularly common since most families prefer wood-burning stoves to conserve money and energy bills. However, experts have warned the residents that this may cause "liberate significant amounts of particulate pollution into the outdoor air' and said they risked undoing the good work of the Clean Air Act which was brought in following the Great Smog of 1952, which is estimated to have killed 12,000 people", according to the Telegraph.

Not just in London, certain areas in Britain are now being affected by the unhealthy air and smog permeating the country. Eight regions of the UK are now also on high alert, particularly parts of Bristol, Belfast, and Nottingham.

This may cause severe health problems to all residents especially to the children. Asthma, bronchitis and severe coughs are some of the common illnesses brought by air pollution. Because of this, the British Lung Foundation is calling on the government to solve the problem as soon as possible. Banning the diesel cars according to them is a major step.

Every year, 9,500 deaths in London are caused by air pollution. Government health officials are now treating the matter in the highest priority, as air pollution may also contribute to possible economic damages.

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AirAsia X will soon be flying over to American soil. The Malaysia low cost airline has announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has granted certification allowing the airline to fly into the US.

According to Business Insider, AirAsia X is the very first Asian low-cost airline with authorization to operated into the US. For AirAsia X this is a huge step in the company making mark beyond Asia Pacific.

"AirAsia X met the requirements and we issued them the operation specifications last December 2,2016 to operate five Airbus A 330-343 aircraft." as reported by the Federal Aviation Administration. The airline will be delivering affordable international flights to customers using its fleet of Airbus A330 aircrafts. Both AirAsia and AirAsia X are owned by the Tune Group.

As for the destinations, AirAsia X will consider flights to different states within the United States and Hawaii. The airline however has not announced further details on its arrival in the US and what market will it target first during their operation.

For AirAsia, this is not their first trip outside the Asian region as it already has flights launched from Kuala Lumpur to London. Though it did not go to well because of the soaring prices of fuel in 2012. But lately, AirAsia X has been considering flights to London within the year using their Airbus A350 or Boeing 777-300ER aircraft as reported by CAPA.

Once AirAsia X lands in American soil, the airline will join the Norwegian Air and WOW Air as part of low-cost airlines to reach and operate in the US market. For awards, AirAsia X was ranked by Skytrax as the sixth best low-cost airline in the world for eight consecurive years. Want to know more about AirAsia X? Stay tuned to Travelers Today for the latest airline updates.

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For the Chinese, the best way to spend the Lunar New Year is to fly away from the mainland and somewhere else entirely different. China has its Shanghai pilgrimage that sends Chinese families into journeys to thank ancient spirits as part of the general Chinese tradition. Most traveling families cite boredom and troubling journeys at home as reasons to leave the country during the Lunar New Year.

According to Japan Times, Chinese tourists have flocked the land of the rising sun in great numbers this Lunar New Year. The news website cited the statement of Asia-based budget airline Peach Aviation Ltd. as having all their flights taken until February 5. The website post also said about 26.5 percent of Japan's tourist population is made up of Chinese flying from the mainland.

According to Bloomberg, the "Spring Festival," which begins by the entry of the new Lunar Year, is equivalent to America's Thanksgiving -- including the culture of moving elsewhere to avoid traffic and spend holidays as preferred. The business website cited McKinsey & Co Shanghai Partner Steve Saxon who said the new Lunar Calendar year is something they consider a micro-holiday boost for Chinese airlines with fully booked seats guaranteed during the seven-day holiday.

Chinese travelers would not be missing Lunar New Year festivities in almost any part of the world. Travelers in the United States can spend the Lunar New Year's Eve in most urban "Chinatowns" or Chinese temples nearby. Chinese organizations also organize Lunar New Year's Eve events that parallel celebrations in mainland China, such as Dragon Dances and Chinese Zodiac parades.

According to Bloomberg, the Civil Aviation Administration of China notes a 10 percent increase from 2015. Chinese travelers would be heading to more than 100 countries with variation in destination including beaches, urban locations, holiday luxury hotels and even shopping sprees just within reach such as Hong Kong or Taiwan.

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From Saudi Arabia to Malaysia, North Korea and Singapore, these are really the most exciting places to visit these days. Each of them offers the best picturesque sceneries, stunning beaches, adventurous mountains, and history-rich attractions. Hence, here are the most notable laws travelers' needs to learn to enjoy them all to avoid being jailed or getting deported.

In visiting Saudi Arabia and Malaysia, Daily Mail brings the best advice to avoid breaking any of their bizarre laws every traveler must know. Starting with Middle East's best, it's definitely a no-no for this country to consume alcohol and take pictures of women in public.

Saudi Arabia's strict rules for women are from their patriarchal culture, women need to follow men in general. This must be taken into consideration by anyone wanting to the see its amazing architectural buildings like Masjid Al Nabawi and Kingdom Centre skyscraper.

In the same report, it also tackles about Malaysia's unusual law about their floras and faunas. This refers to nature's gift, there's neither picking of flowers nor bringing home animals without Malaysian government's permission. If it is proven that a traveler broke this law, they can be demanded to pay big fines or else deported back in their country.

On the other hand, World Atlas also shares about Singapore's strict laws on jaywalking and littering. In here travelers should really cross the street and throw thrashes on their right places. Big fines and jail time will be the consequences for those who will not pay attention to it.

For North Korea, News.com.au highlights this country's odd travel laws about privacy, camera, and luggage. Initially, be wary that there's no privacy in traveling to this latest tourist hub!

In all, everything about the travelers will be watched closely by military men this is also related to their baggage and cell phones. Bag content and picture taking also have limitations in this stricter side of Korea.

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After Kim Kardashian West's much talked about Paris robbery and Kanye West divorce issues, she is now ready with her Jenner family to get into a new adventure with Costa Rica's stunning beauty. Find out here what could possibly she will enjoy and see in the Papagayo area, here's the list of all the best attractions and adventures everyone can try in the tourist destination.

Kim Kardashian West has just jetted with her two beautiful children to Costa Rica, Daily Mail reports that the family traveled last Thursday for a nice relaxing vacation with her Jenner family. Along with it, Kanye West and her sisters' men will not be going with them on the trip. In spite, Papagayo's stunning destination will not be a lost for the girls without them.

According to Lonely Planet, this 2017 heightens Costa Rica's travel trend for many tourists seeking sun-drenched locations with picturesque scenery and amazing waters. Indeed, the place is a great start for family's to enjoy outdoor activities, wildlife, and water adventures.

One of the most notable place tourist flocks to at the moment in Costa Rica is Papagayo Gulf. Here TripAdvisor shares the best things to see and enjoy which Kim Kardashian West and the Jenner's might all be experiencing now. For hotels to stay, its Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort, Four Season Costa Rica Resort, Secrets Papagayo Resort, and El Mangroove which could they are now. Although, Airbnb is also well known here so there's a possibility that they could just rent a nice private place to stay.

Lastly, Kim Kardashian and her family might not be either in the listed hotels above because there are just too much to experience in the area. These adventures will surely be there feat now! Nature and wildlife tours, river rafting and tubing, horseback riding, snorkeling, scuba diving, zip lining, and kite surfing are the most fun adventures to do in this nice tourist area.

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Reigning Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach explained that the pageant this year which is held in the Philippines is a lot better. She said that she likes how the preliminary competition was done in the country.

Wurtzbach together with actor Derek Ramsay hosted the swimsuit and long gown competitions at the Mall of Asia Arena. She explained that the flow of the pageant is faster this time as reported by ABS-CBN. The candidates come out of the stage in three's instead of the usual one by one.

Another good thing about the new strategy is that with three ladies on stage at one time, the audience can have more to look at. The information about the candidates is being read while they are walking which is another innovation.

The 2015 Miss Universe winner whose victory sparked controversy with Miss Colombia has a lot of promises for the upcoming event. She said that the audience and those who watch on the Internet and televisions will see a world-class show. "The audience will get their money's worth," she promised.

The pageant to be held at the MOA Arena on January 30, 2017, will be choosing its 65th queen. Pia Wurtzbach is the third Filipina to bring home the crown.

The 27-year-old beauty queen said that the candidates are lucky that they came to the Philippines. She said that when she competed in Las Vegas, they just stayed within the city. Unlike her in the country, the candidates were toured all over the country.

Pia Wurtzbach will be bequeathing the crown to the next Miss Universe. She is quite emotional remembering all the experiences she had during her reign. She acknowledged Ester Swan for her support as she did her duties as the reigning queen as per Inquirer.

The 65th Miss Universe coronation will be seen live on ABS-CBN Channel 2 on Monday, January 30, 2017, at 8 a.m. (Manila time).

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With the first phase of voting on February 11, these nerve centres are brimming with young techies and election strategists.

Digital canvassing for polls has picked up steam in India since Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the NDA to a resounding victory in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections.

By Rajat Rai: The battle lines are drawn in Uttar Pradesh and the war rooms of political parties in the fray are getting combat-ready.

With the first phase of voting on February 11, these nerve centres are brimming with young techies and election strategists. Major players such as the BJP, SP and Congress have set up high-tech war rooms in state capital Lucknow and have been running clamorous campaigns on Facebook, Twitter and WhatsApp over the past six months.

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Digital canvassing for polls has picked up steam in India since Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the NDA to a resounding victory in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections when his team used social media in innovative ways to maximise reach among young voters.

WAR ROOM 1- BJP

The most active and buzzing war room is that of the BJP, which works in full swing even on Sundays. The 20-seat call centre at the BJP state headquarters operates round the clock, while a private 90-seater one also works rigorously to promote party policies.

"We make 20,000 calls to local party committees every day, enquiring about the WhatsApp groups on which they are sharing our messages," a young graduate at the BJP state headquarters war room said, requesting anonymity.

Sanjay Rai, the BJP's state IT head, said nearly 8,000 pro-BJP WhatsApp groups have been created to woo voters. "All groups have been given the responsibility of sending messages to at least 100 users. We release 6 to 8 contents every day", Rai said.

Also read: Uttar Pradesh election: SP-Congress alliance gets BJP thinking about how Muslims will vote

The content includes information regarding the party, central government schemes and inputs related to developments on the state's law and order situation, he added.

WAR ROOM 2- CONGRESS

The Congress war room doesn't work 24x7. However, its state IT cell head Prashant Singh had an explanation. "Our main war room is based in Delhi and we do not need to show off like them (BJP). You do not need to sit at a fixed place to be socially active," he argued. Singh said nearly 50 professionals are working for the party. "About 15 are engaged in social media activities and the rest are working as telecallers who are involved in building voter connect and gathering inputs.

Besides, we also have a team of over 300 who are involved in content writing and related jobs," he told Mail Today.

Also read: NOTA only option: Over 1200 villagers from Uttar Pradesh's Lakhimpur to boycott Assembly election

"Unlike the BJP, we are not involved in negative politics. We are only mentioning positive inputs about the works carried out by the Congress in the past and highlighting the main points of rallies held by our leaders like Rahul Gandhi, Raj Babbar, etc," he said.

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WAR ROOM 3- SAMAJWADI PARTY

Though the war room was largely lying defunct for the past couple of months due to the ongoing family feud, it was recently shifted to a new base near the party's state headquarters. Headed by Ashish Yadav, who is also the media communication head of the party, the war room members chiefly focus on development in the national and regional media. "Kaam bolta hai (work speaks) is the theme of the war room. The fact that he (CM Akhilesh Yadav) too is tech savvy inspired us to work with twice the energy. The war room has four sections - media monitoring cell research cell, digital content on social media and a call centre. "We make over 2,000 phone calls every day to booth-level workers and get their feedback. Our social content is basically aimed at highlighting the developmental works carried out by the CM during his tenure," a member of the war room said, preferring anonymity.

"We get feedback not only on our party but even rivals like the BSP and BJP."

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Also read: Akhilesh Yadav unlikely to contest Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls, says 'I am an MLC till 2018'

Also read: Uttar Pradesh : Female votes crucial in the coming assembly elections

A few days ago, the CM also gave an additional responsibility to his wife and MP Dimple Yadav. "She will connect with female voters through WhatsApp and make them aware of the policies and achievements of the government," a source said.

WAR ROOM 4- BAHUJAN SAMAJ PARTY

The BSP is a late entrant in the social media game. There is no set physical infrastructure for the war room and it is running virtually. "Nearly 400 of our selected party workers are running it from various parts of the state, publicising our line of thought among the voters," party spokesperson Pravesh Mishra said. A majority of our tech-savvy workers include alumnus of IITs, other engineering colleges and universities like JNU, AMU and DU.

--- ENDS ---
The Nation of Patriots rolled through Flagstaff in July 2016 on a mission to raise money for wounded veterans and their families.

This ride, known as the Patriot Tour, is one flag traveling 48 states in 100 days, with the sole purpose of raising money to help wounded vets and their families with expenses that are not or cannot be covered by government programs.

The Arizona portion of this all-volunteer effort raised $11,000 from this event, thanks to the generosity of donors across Arizona, and the Nation of Patriots National Committee added another $2,000 dollars to the effort. The NOP is a non-profit, 100 percent volunteer group, with all money raised going to veterans in our state. The $13,000 went to five area veterans, representing Flagstaff, Williams, Prescott Valley, the Hopi tribe, and the Navajo Nation.

The group offered its thanks to Mikes Bikes, Five Guys Hamburgers, Rick Smith Insurance, HomCo, AEC Printing, Superior Propane, LPs Excavating, and all the many other patriotic businesses, organizations, and individuals who helped last year's effort.

In 2017, the Patriot Tour will be escorting the flag across Arizona July 13-15. The flag will be in Flagstaff July 14.

For information on events and activities, visit arizonanationofpatriots.com.
By Press Trust of India: Jaipur, Jan 28 (PTI) A day after its members allegedly assaulted Sanjay Leela Bhansali and vandalised the set of "Padmavati", the Karni Sena today reiterated its stand to oppose any distortion of historical facts.

The group demanded a written assurance from the director while also blaming his security for the commotion.

Bhansali, who was allegedly assaulted during the shooting of film Padmavati by the protesters, has already packed up his shooting for the film which was going on in Jaigarh fort.

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"I do not support any violence and the Karni sena had gone there to oppose the shooting and talk to Bhansali but he refused to meet and three bullets were fired in the air from his security men which led to provocation and commotion," Lokendra Singh Kalvi, founder patron of the outfit said at a press conference.

He said that distortion of historic facts will not be tolerated at any cost, which was well communicated to the film maker five-six months back in Mumabi.

"We came to know about the dream sequence of Alauddin Khiji, played by Ranveer Singh, through Singhs interview which quoted him as saying that he was ready to accept the role of villain in the film provided there were intimate scene with Deepika Padukone, who is playing the role of Rani Padmavati, are included in the film," he said.

Kalvi said they demanded that whatever bonding Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone share in their personal life should not be picturised in the film for which Bhansali was ready.

"We asked him to not even go with dream sequence in which Khilji dreams of love scene with Rani Padmavati for which Bhansali sought a time for two days.

"Seeking a two-day time shows that there is something about the dream sequence in the film," he pointed out.

He also asked whether Bhansali can make a film against Hitler in Germany.

"We cannot tolerate the move to tarnish the history of our legendary ancestors. Rani Padmavati had made supreme sacrifice by doing Jauhar with 16,000 women in Chittorgarh fort to save herself from Khilji. Her character was like Sita so how the filmmakers can present such hurting things in the film," claimed Girraj Singh, president of Rajput Sabha.

Mahipal Singh, the state president of the Karni Sena, said that they were trying to protect the history.

"We had gone to talk to them but bullets were fired in the air which provoked the members. It was me who tried to stop the members from assaulting Bhansali," he said.

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The Rajput leaders said that no FIR was lodged because Bhansali had requested them to forget the incident.

"...but we will not forget our history," Kalvi said.

They also alleged that the shooting was being canned in the Jaigarh fort without permission but the authorities at the fort refuted the allegation saying permission was granted for the shooting. PTI SDA ASV BK

--- ENDS ---
Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, January 27

A 23-year-old youth of Mohali was killed after the motorcycle he was riding was hit by a speeding car at Sector 51 here on January 25. The victim has been identified as Vishal.

According to the police, the victims elder brother, Vikas, complained that the motorcycle was hit by a car bearing a registration number of Punjab. The car driver fled from the spot, leaving the vehicle behind. The victim was rushed to the GMSH, Sector 16, where doctors declared him brought dead. He was a resident of Phase X, Mohali, and was working as an immigration agent.

The police said the car driver had been identified as Harinder Singh of Faridkot. He was arrested and later released on bail.

Pedestrian dies in hit-&-run

In a hit-and-run case, a pedestrian was killed after a speeding car hit him at the Transport light point in Sector 26 on Friday.

The victim has been identified as Nand Kishore, a resident of Pinjore. The victim was crossing the road when the accident took place. The police said the accused driver sped away from the spot.
Chandigarh: Two police personnel deputed with a PCR vehicle were assaulted and their uniform torn by a Ram Darbar resident on the night of January 25. Sources said Head Constable Mahabir Singh and Constable Narinder had gone to a spot in connection with a quarrel between a man and his wife at Ram Darbar. The police said the man, Rakesh, a resident of Phase I, Ram Darbar, entered into an altercation with the policemen and quarrelled with them. He also tore their uniform. He then fled from the spot. Police teams were rushed to the spot. A case under Sections 332 and 353 of the IPC has been registered at the Sector 31 police station.  TNS
Chandigarh, January 28

Haryana has been put on maximum alert in view of the call for a fresh round of quota agitation from Sunday given by a section of Jats.

During a similar stir a year ago, there were 30 deaths and widespread destruction of property.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

As a precautionary measure, Section 144 has already been imposed in sensitive districts, including Rohtak, Sonepat, Jhajjar, and at other places in the state, officials said.

"We are fully geared up to deal with the situation.

Although the leaders of various agitating organisations have promised to hold dharnas in a peaceful manner, yet the administration is fully geared up to maintain law and order," Haryana's Additional Chief Secretary (Home), Ram Niwas told PTI today.

Assembly of five or more people in about 500 metre from national and state highways, and railway stations has been banned. Paramilitary forces are out in sensitive areas while heavy police force too has been deployed to maintain strict vigil, officials said.

In view of the agitation plans, the Haryana government has sent a requisition for 55 companies (about 5,500 personnel) of Central paramilitary forces and has also issued call out notice to depute 7,000 Home Guards in the state.

Some companies of paramilitary forces have already reached Haryana, Niwas said.

Rohtak and some of its neighbouring districts, including Sonepat and Jhajjar, had been the worst-hit by the violence which broke out during last year's Jat stir. It had also affected Delhi as the protesters cut water supply to the national capital and caused massive damage to public property in Haryana.

Rapid Action Force personnel have been deputed at Munak canal, which was damaged by the protesters during last year's agitation for reservation.

Patrolling by paramilitary and police personnel have been increased in sensitive and extra-sensitive areas. The central forces have also been conducting flag marches in some sensitive areas since yesterday, officials said.

All Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police have been directed to ensure that highways and railway tracks are not obstructed and properties are not damaged, they said.

The call for a fresh stir has been given by some Jat outfits, especially those owing allegiance to the All India Jat Aarakshan Sangharsh Samiti (AIJASS) headed by Yashpal Malik.

Tomorrow, we will hold full-fledged protests in 19 districts of Haryana and will make announcement about protest in Delhi, Malik said.

A mahapanchayat of some Khaps or caste councils was held in Rohtak yesterday, in which they reiterated their call for holding agitation in a peaceful manner from tomorrow and termed those opposing the stir as "government agents".

The Khap leaders maintained that release of arrested Jat youths, withdrawal of cases registered during last year's agitation and grant of government jobs to the kin of youths killed during that stir are their immediate demands.

The Haryana government has assured to provide jobs to kin of those killed during violence in last year's Jat agitation.

Meanwhile, IG (Hisar Range) O P Singh told reporters at the Hariyal Guest House in Jind that the state police are prepared to deal with the situation.

On bringing additional forces from outside the state, he said it was not only about preparation but also about intent and determination.

"The police are ready to tackle any situation. Everybody has the right to protest peacefully. The leaders of the protesting organisation must do the same," the IG said.  PTI
Tribune News Service

Jammu, January 28

Former Chairman of the Legislative Council Abdul Rashid Dar called on Governor NN Vohra at Raj Bhawan here today.

Dar discussed with the Governor issues relating to the implementation of development schemes and the difficulties being faced by people due to the harsh weather and lack of power supply. The Governor appreciated Dars interest and involvement in the promotion of welfare of the people in the state.

Meanwhile, a deputation of the Dogra Sadar Sabha led by former Minister Gulchain Singh Charak met the Governor at Raj Bhawan today.

The deputation voiced its concerns about the potential threat to peaceful co-existence and the additional stress on the resources of the region from the settling of Bangladesh and Myanmar migrants in Jammu, delay in restoration of Mubarak Mandi Complex, preservation of eight lakh files and other important vintage documents relating to the Dogra period, being housed in Kala Kendra Complex and the need for uniform criteria for admission to B.Ed in the Kashmir and the Jammu universities.

A deputation of the State Gurdwara Parbandhak Board, led by its chairman, Trilochan Singh Wazir, also met the Governor at Raj Bhawan. The deputation requested the Governor, who is also the Chancellor of the University of Jammu, for the Guru Gobind Singh Chair being established in the university by the next academic session to mark Guru Gobind Singhs 350th birth anniversary.

The board also sought the Governors intervention in the Minorities Commission being set up in the state.

The deputation comprised Jagjeet Singh, Avtar Singh Khalsa and Harjinder Singh Raina among others.
Nonika Singh

MEIN shayar to nahibut a master storyteller he sure is. And not just because evergreen star and actor Rishi Kapoor has only recently penned his biography, Khullam Khulla: Rishi Kapoor Uncensored, which is already being dubbed a blockbuster biography. At the Zee Jaipur Literature Festival in the front lawns of Diggy palace, Jaipur, the once cherubic star and now a seasoned actor peppers his conversation with many an anecdote, proving his skill as a raconteur.

Right from the making of Shree 420 where a two-yearold Rishi walked down the road in bit part to Mera Naam Joker, which won him an award, he has an amusing back-story to regale his fans. And his fans are many, crowding the venue crazily, wolfwhistling and eager to lap up every word he utters. Then there are several, like this woman who has bought his biography a day prior to his arrival. Yes, indeed, he has very good reasons to pen his story.

Not that he wanted to extol his virtues; rather wanted the world to know he never had it easy. Indeed, he is a star son, had a dream launch with Bobby. But he reminds that his first innings in the film industry, back then, coincided with the rise of action heroes and he had to deal with stalwarts like Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra. Bachchan, whom he hails as one of the finest actors and also as the biggest star of those times, was not a competitor and they never stepped on each others toes. In many films, Rishi rubbed shoulders with him, particularly the hugely successful Amar Akbar Anthony.

Recalling the director, Manmohan Desai, Rishi reenacts how he was offered the part, which he mistook as one of Mughal emperor. He quips, You know Maanj was capable of anything. He could show three men offering blood at the same time. Indeed, he is aware that back then he did act in a lot of forgettable films. But then there were many memorable ones too, like Karz, the cult film, which could have done even better had it not been overshadowed by Qurbani, released a week after.

In his second innings, he is more proud of movies like Kapoor & Sons, where he played a 90- year-old that required him to put on make-up for five hours and one hour to remove it. But when he was first asked to turn a new leaf as the despicable Rauf Lala in Agneepath, he wasnt convinced and flatly said no in the beginning. However, the director Karan Malhotra and producer Karan Johar stood their ground.

That perhaps was the discovery of the actor in him, which Shah Rukh Khan has gone on record to uphold as the finest actor in Bollywood. That he was a born actor, he understood early in life. He shares how after being considered to play younger Raj Kapoor in Mera Naam Joker, he immediately began practicing his autograph. Of course, being a star is never easy and its talent alone that sees you through. Chronicling 44 years of his journey as an actor, he has been as candid as humanly possible and unfurled many chapters of his life that could have easily remained undercover.

Not surprising, lovely wife Neetu Singh Kapoor calls it an inspirational book. He believes, My book will make readers smile and make their eyes moist too. The verdict on the book we reserve for now, but Rishi, the entertainer, certainly brings tears in our eyes as he brings the house down with his inimitable mirthful style of narration. If the book has even an iota of his engaging ways, it sure would be a roller-coaster ride worth its while.

nonika@tribunemail.com

AAM AADMI

Fearless Rishi sure is and its not only his biography that unveils his candid self. His tweets too hit home with noholds-barred attitude. Those who think his observation against naming of monuments, bridges and building was directed against any family, he clears the air. I am not a BJP chamcha. I have spoken against their misdemeanors too as and when they have erred. I have no political agenda. I am all for aam aadmi.

STAR POWER

Stars are, well, stars and even at literary festivals they draw crowds like magnets. Of course, those of us who were wondering what the team of Baahubali, including the director SS Rajamouli and actor Rana Dagubatti ,was doing at the Zee Jaipur Literature Festival, well they were here to unveil the book cover of Bahubalis prequel  The Rise of Sivagami. Written by popular Malayali Writer Anand Neelakantan, the prequel traces the indomitable courage and self-righteousness of the matriarch in whom the spirit of many mythical Indian women can be seen. As the franchise of Bahubali has grown way beyond the film and moved to comic books, games and more, perhaps, a book was only expected. But the bond between books and cinema is neither new nor likely to cease anytime soon. Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni, whose book The Mistress of Spices, has already been converted into a film by Gurinder Chadha shared how her book Palace of Illusions too will be adapted as film by none other than Aparna Sen.
Kuldip Bhatia

Ludhiana, January 27

Ludhiana North Assembly segment, more or less a Congress stronghold, is all set for a multi-cornered contest with main contenders as Rakesh Pandey of the Indian National Congress, his traditional opponent from Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Parveen Bansal and joint candidate of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Lok Insaf Party (LIP) Randhir Singh Sivia also joining the electoral battle.

The entry of two Independents  rebel Congressman and sitting councillor Hem Raj Aggarwal and rebel SAD-B and former vice-chairman of Punjab Traders Board Madan Lal Bagga in the contest has given it a new dimension.

Sitting Congress legislator Pandey, also a former minister in the erstwhile Congress government (from 2002 to 2007), has an outstanding track record. He has won this seat four times  in 1992, 1997, 2002 and 2012. He lost the election only in 2007 at the hands of Harish Bedi of BJP by a margin of nearly 5,000 votes. But at that time, Madan Lal Bagga, then a sitting Congress councillor, had contested as an Independent, securing a sizeable number of more than 20,000 votes.

Both Pandey and Bansal were locked in an almost straight fight in 2012, when the Congress nominee (Pandey) managed to prevail over his BJP rival by a little more than 2,000 votes.

However, as far as voting pattern in 2014 Lok Sabha elections is concerned, Ravinder Singh Bittu of Congress, was far ahead of his opponents in this Assembly segment. While more than 47,000 votes were polled in favour of Bittu, his SAD-B rival Manpreet Singh Ayali was trailing far behind with 29,000 odd votes followed by HS Phoolka of AAP and Simarjeet Singh Bains of LIP, who had contested as an Independent.

A three-time councillor Sivia, contesting on Simarjeet Singh Bain-headed LIP and supported by AAP, draws strength from the fact that in 2014 Lok Sabha polls, votes cast in favour of Phoolka (AAP) and Bains (then Independent) from this Assembly segment pit together, were close second to the winner Congress candidate (Bittu).

About the two rebel party men  Hem Raj Aggarwal and Madan Lal Bagga, the former is an old timer in Congress, a sitting councillor and group leader of Congress councillors, who had been unsuccessfully seeking party nomination for the last couple of terms. Understandably, he has been expelled from the party by the leadership. Bagga also has a Congress background, having won civic elections on the party ticket. He contested as a rebel candidate in 2007, when he quit the party and joined the SAD-B

Buddha Nullah, a virtual cesspool of pollution and toxic effluents, passing through most parts of the constituency, is the main issue raked by all contestants, who say that no worthwhile efforts had been made to clean up the drain, once called Buddha Dariya (river) and now ganda nullah (dirty drain). Development of urban infrastructure and delivery of civic amenities in the comparatively backward segment is another major election issue.

Six other candidates are also in the fray  Rajendra Kumar (BSP), Jeet Sharma (National Panthers Party), Joginder Lal (Bahujan Mukti Party), Prem Bhushan Jain (Shiv Sena), Parveen Kumar and Rakesh Jain (both Independents).

Constituency Overview : Ludhiana north

Total voters: 1,82,910 : Total polling booths: 178
Ashis Ray

London, January 28

It apears, Britain would prefer a visit by Indian PM Narendra Modi next year. A key official at the Foreign Office in Whitehall put it politely, saying, Mr Modi would be welcome if he came this year, but our choice, if it comes to it, would be next year.

South Block has been enquiring about options. A senior Indian diplomat ran the idea of a sojourn this summer past the British Foreign Secretary, Boris Johnson, during his recent visit to New Delhi. A trip this year would be scheduled immediately before or after the G20 summit in Hamburg on July 7-8. In 2018 it would be a bilateral component leading up to or in the aftermath of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in the UK.

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Britains preference for next year is understandable. Prime Minister Theresa May was in Delhi less than three months ago. It would be too early to review the progress of decisions taken. If any pressing new issues arise in the interim, she and Modi can discuss these on the sidelines of the multilateral meeting in Germany.

Besides, CHOGM would involve British Head of State Queen Elizabeth II, which is very important to Britain. The Commonwealth is dear to her heart. Indeed, it could well be the last time she presides over the 52-nation organisations biennial conference. At 90, she is unlikely to travel too far for such events in future.

Former PM Manmohan Singh and Modi both have skipped recent CHOGMs. An emerging India - in the eyes of Britain  is quite central to the future of the Commonwealth.

The Commonwealth is badly in need of a shot in the arm. After Brexit, Britain is desperately seeking enhanced trade with its former colonies to compensate for a possible downturn in exports to and imports from Europe, if compelled to quit the European Common Market.

But the Commonwealth is in crisis. The British Department of International Development (DfID) has threatened to withdraw its funding unless it improved its performance.

The Commonwealth Secretariat continues to under-perform," a report asserted. The secretariat claimed the review

pertained to the period before Baroness Patricia Scotland became secretary-general last April.

India is a major contributor to the Commonwealth. A senior diplomat at the Indian High Commission in London is said to have told Scotland she needs to stop bad-mouthing her Indian predecessor, Kamlesh Sharma, if she wants Indias co-operation. The morale at the Commonwealth Secretariat is reportedly low. The BBC quoted senior diplomatic and political sources as alleging poor leadership on the part of Scotland.

It further reported: She has been accused of financial extravagance over the refurbishment of her official residence." Scotland has denied the charges. However, with a meeting

of Commonwealth trade ministers on the anvil in March, the British Government is jittery.

A former British Ambassador to Japan reporting directly to May has been put in charge of a team preparing for next year's CHOGM while a retired Foreign Office diplomat has been made acting chief operating officer at the secretariat. The interventions are pre-emptive moves by London to arrest the inefficiency.

Most unusual, the British Queen has expressed her inability to attend the annual Commonwealth Day reception in March. She will be represented at the reception by the Prince of Wales.

The Indian Prime Minister has been advised visits to Britain this year and next would be an overkill.

So, does he come this summer to keep his exuberant overseas Gujarati constituency contented? Or does he visit next year to attend CHOGM?

There has over the years developed a natural closeness between the UK and India. Of course, immigration is an irritant and trade turnover could be better. Besides, the agreed partnership on counter-terrorism would be more meaningful if forces hostile to India are deterred from functioning freely in Britain.
Moodabidri (Karnataka), January 28

Raising the pitch for lifting the ban on annual buffalo race "Kambala" in Karnataka, thousands of people on Saturday staged a massive rally in Dakshina Kannada district here in support of the traditional sport, even as protests on the issue intensified.

Amid tight security, Kambala supporters marched in a nearly 4-km long procession from Swaraj Maidan with 200 bullocks and ended their protest against the ban at Kadalakere Nisargadhama Kambala Track.

The protesters holding placards and shouting slogans demanded an ordinance, as was done in the case of Jallikattu (bull-taming sport) in Tamil Nadu, to permit holding of the folk sport which is part of the tradition of the coastal Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts.

Kambala was part of agriculture and an 800-year-old tradition which was is indivisible component of our lives, the supporters said, emphasising that they treated the buffaloes as their own children and no violence was involved unlike in Jallikattu, where deaths and injuries to many occur.

The protest was called by various committees associated with the organisation of the sport, including the District Kambala Samiti, Sampradaya Kambala Samiti, Kambala Academy and Moodbidri Koti-Chennaya Jodukare Kambala Samiti.

A symbolic Kambala was planned earlier as part of the protest, but was given up after persuasion by district authorities against violating the law. The matter is before the Karnataka High Court at present and it will hear the case on January 31.

The annual sport, held from November to March, involves a pair of buffaloes tied to the plough and anchored by one person. They are made to run in parallel muddy tracks in a competition in which the fastest team wins.

Kambala is believed to be held to propitiate the Gods for a good harvest, besides being a recreational sport for farmers.

Meanwhile, a PETA statement said agitators in Karnataka have taken a leaf out of the pro-Jallikattu protesters' book and begun to falsely label PETA India as "foreign" and were now calling for banning the organisation.

Poorva Joshipura, PETA India CEO, said the PETA India was a law abiding organisation which has spent the last 17 years advocating 'ahimsa' (non-violence), promoting vegetarian foods and clothing, facilitating free veterinary care for working animals whose owners cannot afford it, among other life saving activities.

"Calling for a ban on PETA India would also be akin to calling for a ban on a child protection organisation which saves children from illegal trafficking. We should all be concerned that such an action is being called for," she said.

After the massive protests in Chennai gained success with the revocation of ban on 'Jallikattu', leaders across political parties have supported a similar action to facilitate Kambala.

A division bench of the Karnataka High Court, headed by Chief Justice S K Mukherjee, in an interim order in November 2016, had stayed holding of Kambala on a petition by PETA challenging it in view of orders passed by the Supreme Court on Jallikattu.

Kambala committees have filed an interim application, seeking vacation of the stay. The ban has sparked a debate on whether the event amounts to cruelty to animals or is just a simple rural sport.

Kambala in its traditional form was non-competitive, but over the years, it has become an organised sport.

Animal rights activists claim that the buffaloes run in the race due to fear of being beaten, which the organisers dismiss, saying no violence is involved and that modifications had been made to ensure that it is animal friendly.

Facing growing demand for holding Kambala after the success of the Jallikattu stir in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has said an ordinance could be brought in, if necessary, to allow the event after seeking legal opinion.

He had also asked the Centre to take a favourable stand on Kambala as it did on Jallikattu, where both Tamil Nadu and Central governments, after facing public pressure moved swiftly to facilitate the bull-taming sport.  PTI
Shahira Naim

Tribune News Service



Lucknow, January 29

The Bharatiya Janata Party promised a Ram temple in Ayodhaya on "constitutional terms", as the party released its election manifesto on Saturday.

As he released the partys manifesto, 'Lok Kalyan Sankalp Patra' (Pledge for People's Welfare) for UP Assembly elections, BJP national president Amit Shah on Saturday accused the Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samaj Party of plundering Uttar Pradesh. Shah claimed that of the 'BIMARU' (Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh) states, the latter had seen the least improvement.

Centre sanctioned Rs 1 lakh crore to UP but no development is seen on ground. Law and order is at its nadir, Shah said.

Responding to a question Shah said that there was "no contradiction" between Ram Mandir and development and that they could be done together. He also said that the party would consult Muslim women in the state on the subject of 'triple talaq'.

He brushed aside allegations about not having Muslims on its list of candidates by saying the party had fielded winnable candidates.

He also claimed BJP had no competition in the state.

Shah however refused to comment about the discontent brewing in the party after 50 turncoats were fielded.

Significantly, former prime minister Atal Behari Vajpayee has been dropped from the manifesto cover, with only Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Shah now visible.

Highlights

Major sops for farmers like loans at zero per cent interest.

Rs 2 lakh insurance for landless labourers.

Will attempt for building of Ram Mandir through constitutional means

To replace politics of family rule with politics of performance.

Rs 150 crore fund to be set up in 5 years for agricultural development.

No interview for Class III and IV government jobs in UP to end corruption in recruitment.

Food processing park to be set up in UP; 24 hours power to be supplied in UP, cheaper rates for the poor.

BJP to form teams at district levels to check "exodus" of people due to communal tension.

District magistrates would be responsible for migration due to communal tension in western Uttar Pradesh

Free education up to Class 12; fees to be waived up to graduation level to meritorious students.

Anti-land encroachment brigade against encroachment,"Romeo brigade" to check eve teasers.

Rs 6 lakh subsidised loan for building houses.

Mechanised slaughter houses to be banned.  With agencies
Jaipur, January 28

Five people, who were detained for creating nuisance on the sets of Sanjay Leela Bhansalis film Padmavati, have been released, police said on Saturday.

They were allegedly involved in creating nuisance during the shooting of the film in Jaigarh on Friday, SHO Amer Police Station Narendra Kumar said.

They were detained and later released on Friday.

Bhansali was allegedly assaulted on Friday by activists of a Rajput community group who also forced stoppage of shooting of his movie Padmavati by vandalising the set at Jaigarh Fort, alleging that the director was distorting facts.

Police said it had detained five people for disturbing peace even though no complaint was received from Bhansalis side.

The ruckus took place when the film, in which Deepika Padukone is playing Padmavati and Ranveer Singh is playing Alaudin Khilji, was being shot at the historic fort, eyewitnesses said.

The activists of Karni Sena had gathered at the site and demanded stoppage of the shooting. They stormed the set and damaged some chairs and other objects, forcing stoppage of the shooting.

After the incident, the director decided not to go ahead with the shooting in the state.

We had warned the filmmakers against presenting wrong facts. When we came to know about the shooting, we gathered there and protested. Besides the Karni sena activists, there were several other people who had gone there to watch the shooting. Someone from the mob slapped him and pulled his hair, district president of Karni sena Narayan Singh had claimed.

There was a protest and the issue was settled after both the parties held talks, DPC North (Jaipur) Anshuman Bhomia had said.

He had said that no FIR was lodged by anyone but five people had been detained by the police for disturbing peace.

Singh had claimed that Bhansali wanted to present a distorted fact about Rani Padmavati, which would not be tolerated by the Rajput community. PTI
Balasore, January 28

A woman was beheaded while her teenage children and a relative were hacked to death by unidentified assailants at a village in Balasore district, police said.

They were killed with sharp-edged weapons and the bodies bearing multiple injuries were recovered from a hut, barely 50 metres from the Balasore-Gopalpur road under Jaydev Kasba police outpost limit.

Police recovered a sword, an axe and some ammunition from the hut where they were murdered.

The deceased were identified as Pratibha Mandal (44), son Suman (15), daughter Sujan (18) and relative Bibek Majhi (13), police said.

Pratibha was beheaded and her severed head was found along the road near the murder site.

It appears that an old dispute over property was the reason behind the murder, police said. PTI
Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, January 27

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) today released its complete election manifesto, promising more, including stern action against drug smugglers and those behind the recent incidents of sacrilege in Punjab. It had earlier issued manifestoes for various categories.

The party has promised to end property tax on houses, slash power bills by half up to 400 units and cashless medical treatment in private hospitals up to Rs 5 lakh for all. It has pledged three more medical colleges, free laptops to Class IX students in government schools, free power to farmers and a hike in old-age pension to Rs 2,500 per month.

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It has reiterated it will make Punjab farmers debt-free by December 2018, create 25 lakh jobs for the unemployed youth and rid Punjab of drugs within a month. AAP campaign committee chairman Bhagwant Mann and Dialogue Committee convener Kanwar Sandhu released the manifesto here. Mann said besides waiving debt, the farmers would be paid compensation for crop damage at the rate of Rs 20,000 per acre whereas farm labourers would get Rs 10,000. He said Sir Chhotu Ram Act of 1934 on farm debts would be implemented.

Promising that the drug mafia would be smashed in a month, Mann said addicts would be sent to rehab centres and brought back to the mainstream within six months.

An SIT would be formed to probe cases of sacrilege and police firing on innocent Sikhs at Behbal Kalan and the guilty brought to book. To boost trade and industry, inspector raj would be abolished and sick units in industrial towns, such as Mandi Gobindgarh, revived.

Every primary school would have at least five teachers, 29,000 vacancies of teachers would be filled and another 30,000 posts created. Every village would have a clinic and every town mohalla clinics on the Delhi pattern.

Sandhu said AAP would open Aam Aadmi canteens at the sub-division and district-level where a meal would be available for Rs 5. It would implement the Sixth Pay Commission, give regular employment to those on contract and 33 per cent reservation to women in jobs.

He said ex-servicemen would get 13 per cent reservation in jobs and SC and ST commission given more powers.
GS Paul

Tribune News Service

Majitha, January 27

On a three-day tour of Punjab ahead of the February 4 elections, Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi today addressed an impressive gathering at Majitha, the bastion of Bikramjit Singh Majithia, Revenue Minister and brother-in-law of Deputy CM Sukhbir Badal. He announced Capt Amarinder Singh as the partys chief ministerial candidate, eliciting a thunderous applause.

Amid cries of Jo Bole So Nihal and flanked by Capt Amarinder and partys Amritsar East candidate Navjot Singh Sidhu, Rahul promised to eradicate chitta (drugs).

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The Akalis made fun of me when I raised the issue in the past. Today, there is enough evidence to prove how Punjabs youth is being destroyed by drugs. If voted to power, the Congress will bring in stern laws to tackle the problem, he said, also promising to waive farm loans and take back cases registered against those who had dared to raise their voice against the Badals.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi claims to fight corruption. How then can he support the Akali Dal? The entire nation knows the Akali Dal has ruined Punjab, Rahul said. Ridiculing the SAD further, he claimed that contrary to Guru Nanak Devs preaching of tera he tera, the Akalis had pursued the dictum of mera he mera. Accusing the Badals of monopolising all trade, be it transport, cable network or the hotel industry, Rahul said: Punjab ke badlon ne andhera phaila diya hai (Badals have spread darkness). You have to give a cut to them if you want to set up business in Punjab. Thats why industrialists have moved to other states. The damage done is huge. We need peoples support to clean the mess.

In an apparent reference to the growing incidents of sacrilege in Punjab, he said while Modi claimed he was against communalism, he is backing a party that is creating communal polarisation in Punjab.

In a veiled attack on AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal, Rahul said Punjab would not be run by a remote control as it did not need one.

Capt Amarinder accused the SAD-BJP government of implicating youths in false cases. He claimed that of the approximately 90 lakh youth in the 18- 35 years age group, at least five lakh have been booked in frivolous cases to intimidate them. Sidhu attacked the Badals in his inimitable style, provoking much laughter.

Later in the day, Bikram Majithia tweeted: Rahul Gandhi has nothing to deliver for the people of Punjab. He has only false hopes & failed dreams to offer to win votes and Rahul is facing ire of Punjabis during his rallies as the wounds inflicted on them by his grandma & father are still bleeding.
Balwant Garg

Tribune News Service

Jalalabad, January 28

Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi on Saturday called Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal an epitome of corruption in the country.

While addressing an election rally in favour of party candidate Ravneet Singh Bittu here, Rahul said it was ridiculous that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was demanding votes for this prototype of corruption to end corruption in Punjab.

Read: Eye on Dalit votes, Rahul Gandhi visits Dera Sachkhand Ballan

Rahul alleged that Punjab is a business hub only for the Badal family and their relatives as they had a lions share in all businesses in the state. All businesses, which denied the Badals their share, were forced to shift to other states, he claimed.

He said the Congress on assuming power would bring all such industry back to Punjab.

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Bittu and party leader Navjot Singh Sidhu accused the Badals of making a fake sleaze video of SAD MP Sher Singh Gubaya to finish him politically. Bittu asked people to avenge the act by defeating the Akalis.

Davinder Singh Gubaya, son of Sher Singh Gubaya, reached the rally with his two sisters and they were called on the stage by Rahul.

In his brief address, Davinder alleged that the act of releasing the fake video by the Badals proved that they could stoop to any level to eliminate those who dared question them.

The Rai Sikh community would not tolerate this attempt to disgrace their leader and Akalis would be taught a lesson on February 4, Davinder claimed.
Balwant Garg

Tribune News Service

Guru Har Sahai (Ferozepur), Jan 27

Hours after Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi declared Capt Amarinder Singh as the partys CM face, the latter challenged AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal to name his partys chief ministerial candidate.

Addressing a rally here in favour of party candidate Rana Gurmeet Singh Sodhi, Amarinder alleged that Kejriwal was making attempts for a back-door entry to grab the CMs post without contesting the polls.

Even on the SYL issue, Kejriwal is maintaining a stoic silence, indicating a nefarious design on his part, alleged Amarinder.

He said there was no difference between the Akalis and AAP as both were interested in promoting their vested interests by looting Punjab and its people.

Rana Sodhi promised to transform the area into a model town.

In Ferozepur Rural constituency, Congress nominee Satkar Kaur assured the people that the party would not spare any effort in bringing to book all those guilty of ruining Punjab.

Expressing concern over the spate of farmer suicides, Amarinder reiterated his promise to waive all farm debts on coming to power. He warned of strict action against all politicians and police officers involving in framing people.
Amaninder Pal

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, January 27

Apart from transparency, the newly introduced Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT)-voting machines have also brought with them a matter of concern for the Election Commission in Punjab.

In a meeting of EC officials held with representatives of all political parties, a major party has raised the issue that activists of some parties had launched a misinformation campaign about the secrecy of the ballot in VVPATs in several rural pockets.

Apart from one urban Assembly segment in 22 districts, VVPATs will be installed at seats having key contests including Lambi, Jalalabad, Lehra, Majitha, Atamnagar, Anandpur Sahib and Bholath.

Misinformation is being spread that since VVPAT will generate a paper chit carrying all voting details of each voter, the party that will come to power can easily confirm the choice of each voter. They are spreading the word that VVPATs will compromise the secrecy of the ballot. This claim is being used to influence the minds of voters, said one of the representatives.

Acting on the inputs, the EC officials immediately decided to launch another phase of the awareness campaign regarding VVPAT with special focus on the point that voting through VVPAT would not compromise the secret ballot.

We have decided to reach out to electors regarding VVPATs once again through a rigorous awareness campaign, said a senior officer.

Of the total 22,400 polling stations in the state, VVPATs will be installed at 6,500 polling stations covering a total of 33 Assembly segments and two Assembly segments falling in Amritsar Lok Sabha seat.

Box  Air ambulance to be parked at Delhi

The EC has withdrawn its decision to station an air ambulance at Ludhiana airport to transport staff on poll duty to Delhi in case of medical emergency.

The EC will avail of the air ambulance service if need be. But it will remain stationed at Delhi airport and be available on call from February 2 to 4, said a senior officer.
Sanjeev Singh Bariana & Rachna Khaira

Tribune News Service

Jalandhar, January 27

Addressing a vijay sankalp rally here today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised Punjab farmers that waters which flow into Pakistan as waste will be brought to Punjab to irrigate their fields.

Choosing to speak without the turban that he was gifted as he landed in the city, he asked the crowd: Doesnt the farmer of Punjab need water? Doesnt he need water for the land that fills the stomach of the entire country? He then replied: The farmer does need water. And we will get it. We will provide him water from the Sindhu flowing into Pakistan.

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Accusing political parties of defaming Punjabs youth, he said: This is the land that has given countless soldiers, who laid down their lives for the country. This land has given food to the country. Let us get together and give a befitting reply to those defaming the youth of Punjab by not voting for them. Let us punish those who are maligning the gems of the nation.

Choosing to ignore AAP, the Prime Minister attacked the Congress, calling it a fish out of water and without any stand, pointing out its alliance with the CPI in West Bengal and the Samajwadi Party in Uttar Pradesh. Accusing the party of political opportunism, he claimed the Congress was a thing of the past and must not be trusted. He also said the Congress was a sinking ship and the people should not board it.

Defending demonetisation, the PM said his drive against corruption was apolitical. But those who had amassed wealth in the past 70 years are worried and are attacking me...The Opposition is trying to destroy my image. However, Modi never succumbs to undue pressure.

He exhorted the people to vote for the SAD-BJP alliance to power for the third time, creating history. Showering praise on Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal, Modi said he had always batted for peace and harmony.

When there was tension between Sikhs and Hindus, it was Badal who played a role in ensuring unity between them, he said, adding that Punjab had survived and grown because of the efforts of the CM.

Badal said with the BJP government at the Centre, Punjab could get liberal grants for public welfare.

State BJP president Vijay Sampla delivered the welcome address.
Sanjeev Singh Bariana

grasping the folded hands of an elderly man, Satwant Singh, in the narrow lanes adjoining Cinema Road in Batala, state AAP convener and party candidate Gurpreet Singh Ghuggi Waraich says gently, Leader te main hain nahin. Apni rooh di awaaz sunn ke tuhade vich aaya haan. Seva da mauka dau (Im not a politician. My conscience has brought me before you. Give me a chance to serve you).

Its raining heavily, but his entourage seems to be growing. Waraich is surrounded by a group of youngsters providing him umbrella cover in a street full of puddles.

Attired in a light-yellow kurta and white pyjama, with a black jacket and a matching turban, Waraich lends his ear to the elder, whose body is grimed with the flour of his mill. He says in a Malwai accent, Main karoonga. Waheguru ne badi kirpa keeti aa. Hunn jhadu chakk lavo. Saara gand maanjh dena hunn (Ill do it. God has blessed us. We have to clean up the system).

Entering the next house, he fondles the tiny tot sitting in the lap of his grandmother and touches her feet. Jeonda reh Babbu putra. Khokhar Faujian vich chhota jiha vekhiya hoya, she says, recalling the time Waraich spent in his native village in Gurdaspur district during childhood. We are still dumping the waste of our houses in the streets. No one has ever bothered about us, she adds.

A little ahead, he pauses to listen to senior artiste Chacha Raunki Ram, who leaves the crowd in splits with slogans such as Jhadu jhadu jhadu. Badalan nu khoonje vaadu.

Despite being famous as a comedian, Waraich is conducting the election business in a sombre manner. Interacting with an elderly man, he says: Drugs have ruined Punjab. Our house needs to be put in order.

Sitting in a house on a factory premises, Ghuggi tells us, My father had to shift from the village because he didnt have a steady job. I used to write applications outside the Kartarpur tehsil in Jalandhar. But we never lost contact with our village.

He adds: I feel motivated to give something back to society. I was approached by the Shiromani Akali Dal and offered a plum post. But my conscience did not allow me to take the political bait. I am here out of my conviction.

Standing in front of a shop selling tea and refreshments, 25-year-old Harman Singh asks, Why are you not mocking the Badals and Capt Amarinder Singh like your colleague, Bhagwant Mann? Waraich replies diplomatically: I wont comment on Bhagwants style as he prefers to do things his way.

Taking the mike, Waraich begins: Our elders called our town the steel city (kale sone da shehar). Sadly, repressive policies and unfair taxation have made industrial ventures unviable.

Batala will get a government hospital to spare people the hassle of travelling to Amritsar, Jalandhar and Ludhiana. Villages will get stadiums. We will bag more than 100 seats. Ehna (opposition) nu 440 volt da current devange. 20-25 saal nahin utthange, he declares.

Peeping through grilled windows, schoolchildren can be seen clapping and cheering: Pukka jitonge, veerji.
Vipul Gupta

As the temperature dips down, especially in North India, theres a sudden upsurge in ischemic (a condition where blood supply to brain is cut off due to clot formation) and hemorrhagic strokes (blood vessel bursts in the brain causing fatal bleeding). Women, elderly (especially above 65 years of age), and those with previous hypertension or hypercholesterolemia are more susceptible to cold-induced ischemic stroke. Cold weather can increase the risk of stroke by up to 30 per cent, warns a new study.

Sudden drop in temperature can result in sharp increase in the risk of potentially-deadly brain clots. Scientists have discovered that for every 2.9C (5.2F) decline in outside air temperature over a 24-hour period, the number of strokes in the general population goes up by 11 per cent. But among those already at high risk, due to raised blood pressure, smoking or being overweight, the increase is 30 per cent.

On an average approximately 1.5 million people in India suffer a stroke every year. And, around 500,000 people are living with stroke-related disability. Therefore, it becomes all the more important for us to understand what doubles up the risk of stroke during winter. Basically, as the temperature goes down, the blood becomes thicker and stickier and increases the potential to clot formation. A greater plasma fibrinogen level and factor VII clotting activity in the winter have been reported as possible mechanisms. The elevation and activation of these coagulation factors may lead to a pro-coagulant status in cool climates which may promote the formation of blood clots within the heart chambers and increase the risk of stroke in patients with irregular heart rhythm. Previous studies have indicated that colder temperatures can be linked to increased blood pressure, especially in elderly.

Though anyone is susceptible, people with existing cardiac problem, high blood pressure, smokers, obese and elderly need to be watchful as with the weather getting cold they are the ones more vulnerable to get a stroke. In fact, such patients have a higher risk of even dying from heart disease or stroke.

Symptoms

It is important to know initial symptoms, especially if we know someone who is at a greater stroke risk. We need to make people aware that a stroke is treatable if the patient is immediately hospitalised. Hence it is important that one should be able to recognise the initial symptoms. The easiest way to remember symptoms of stroke is by reminding oneself of acronym FAST:

Face drooping: A section of the face, usually only on one side, is drooping and difficult to move.

Arm weakness: The inability to raise ones arm fully.

Speech difficulty: An inability or difficulty to understand or produce speech.

Call a doctor: If any of the above symptoms are showing, time is of the essence; call the emergency services or rush to a hospital.

Treatment

Treatment may depend on factors like the type of stroke, the part of brain that has been affected by stroke and most importantly how soon the patient was diagnosed and treated for stroke.

Clot-busting drugs usually have a small window (less than 4.5 hours) to reduce the damage. Mechanical thrombectomy is now strongly recommended for patients in whom large arteries within the brain are blocked. To open the blocked artery, doctors thread a catheter through the groin artery to the occlusion site in the brain. The stent opens and grabs the clot, allowing doctors to remove the stent with the trapped clot. The procedure should be done within six hours of acute stroke symptoms. In more than 80 per cent of patients, the blockage can be opened and flow in the artery be established with this treatment. Approximately 60 per cent of patients will have good recovery and be independent at three months.

Precautionary measures

While its impossible to control the weather conditions, there are a couple of ways to reduce or combat stroke risk. These include:

Eat a balanced diet and adopt healthy lifestyle habits like quitting smoking.

It is recommended that people with blood pressure problem should see their doctor as soon as the weather starts changing because sometimes blood pressure control medication needs to be altered.

To keep blood pressure under control one should consume low salt diet during winters.

Enjoying hot soups, mulled wine or a drink in moderation is advisable.

It is essential that blood pressure patients get their regular checks to ensure everything is under control.

Take extra precautions to stay warm. Indulge in activities like exercising, aerobics or dancing, etc. for a simple reason that the heart has to work much harder in cold weather to keep the body warm.

Elderly can even take a hot water bottle to bed so as to keep themselves warm.

Cover head be it with a scarf or a muffler. Step out wrapped in warm layers.

The writer is director, Neuro-intervention, Agrim Institute for Neuro Sciences, Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon
Safe is not sound for Metallica

Metallica  HardwiredTo Self-Distruct (Rhino)

Metallica is back and bigger than ever. The band has never gone longer without releasing a new studio album, making fans wait eight years for a follow up to 2008s double-platinum album Death Magnetic. What makes this album work so well is how it incorporates sounds from different eras of their career without sounding as if they are repeating themselves. The album finds vocalist-guitarist James Hetfield, drummer Lars Ulrich, guitarist Kirk Hammett and bassist Robert Trujillo in dominant form, flexing through one mighty metal number after another. Title track Hardwired and Spit Out the Bone serve as the bookends to the album. Both tracks are incredibly successful in bringing people right into the bands old-world territory. Here Comes Revenge is dense, while Am I Savage efficiently releases tension with a smart ascending riff in its chorus. The gentle introduction of ManUNkind serves as a contrast for the rest of the song, which is followed by wicked composition. Metallica has also made an official video for each of the albums 12 tracks. Now That Were Dead capitalises on the rewriting of Enter Sandmans crunching melody, including a gripping introduction. Drummer Lars Ulrich and bassist Robert Trujillo anchor the groove while lead guitarist Kirk Hammett shines with his sharp leads and guitar solo. A true metal track, Atlas, Rise! will give you a real taste of the supremacy the band is known for.

Essential tracks: Hardwired, ManUNkind, Spit Out The Bone

A cohesive set of notes

Drive-By Truckers  American Band (ATO)

American Band is only the second Drive-By Truckers album, following 2014s English Oceans, to feature less than three songwriters, tossing the focus squarely where its always been: Hood and Cooleys songs. The album is a politically-driven collection that addresses issues like mass shootings and Confederate flag controversies. Matt Patton and Jay Gonzalez hold down the rumbling strings and piano that add new nuances to the bands sound. Coupled with the vocals of Patterson Hood, Drive-By Truckers has some interesting notes to offer. Guns of Umpqua paints an incredibly uncanny picture of someone on the verge of getting gunned down in the community college shooting. The albums first single, Surrender Under Protest, is a classic Truckers anthem, with gleaming piano and a therapeutic chorus, even if it finds Mike Cooleys voice more weathered than usual. Ramon Casiano delves into the masked history of former NRA leader Harlon Carter, and murder of a Hispanic teenager in 1931, in the course revealing the origins of modern-day militia. Hood ignites our thoughts through What It Means, beginning with the line He was running down the street when they shot him in his tracks before illustrating: It happened last weekend and it will happen again next week. On the albums nervously triumphant closer Baggage, Hood laments how something so intensely personal as depression can today become both public and political: For your cowardice in facing down your flaws/ Im not sure what makes me sadder, all that talent up in flames/ Or the lack of understanding that it wrought. What the Drive-by Truckers eleventh studio album shows is that theyre back at the top of their game, re-energised and reinvigorated.

Essential tracks: Ramon Casiano, Surrender Under Protect, Ever South

The most explosive hip-hop ever

Run The Jewels  Run The Jewels 2 (Mass Appeal)

Run The Jewels, the super-dynamic duo of El-P and Killer Mike, two of the most distinctive and celebrated names in rap, release their sophomore album, Run The Jewels 2. A perfect complement to these uncertain times, the duo has taken all of our angst and backed it up with heavy beats. Continuing the fight against injustice and crime, El-P and Mike sound distressed here. Down makes an emotional start, putting the complete project into perspective by establishing how a frantic past can colour someones present. Legend Has It, an early track released from the album, is everything a great Run the Jewels track should be: Serious, insistent and amusing, while 2100 weaves in guitar notes thats melodic on the verses. Thursday in the Danger Room takes on a slightly melancholic note as El-P reflects on his friend Camu Taos death from cancer: You couldnt bear to see someone who prided themselves on the strength to feel weak / The cruelty of randomness, hold it for ransom, that life will not fade in your dreams. The track has a meditative feel, filled with a haunting saxophone line from Kamasi Washington. Hey Kids (Bumaye) featuring guest Danny Brown, brings back their popular sound and actually is even more alarming in its simplicity. Dont Get Captured displays some of El-Ps best synth-laden industrial rap production, while Thieves! features a standout aid from Tunde Adebimpe.

Essential tracks: 2100, Thursday in the Danger Room, Panther Like a Panther, Oh Mama

Eno creates a perfect storm

Brian Eno  Relection (Warp)

A follow up to the ethereal The Ship (2016), Reflection is rich with an abundance of electronically generated instruments and music thats peaceful and meditative. The collection showcases his latest experiments. The album opens with a brief melodic figure and slowly evolves from there over the course of one 54-minute piece. Reflection is studded with natural sounds and field recordings, and some of its most exciting sequences are dependent on physical presence, for instance deep breaths, the thudding and clacking of the pianos keys and pedals, and the heavy air of the room in which hes playing. The album possesses the same eerie chill that first was felt in 1978s landmark Ambient 1: Music For Airports and 1983s Apollo: Atmospheres And Soundtracks. Enos synthesised pulses smear into one another, giving the feel of different instruments. Interestingly, this is the first album to be released as an app, making it possible for a consumer to play this album infinitely or more specifically, to hear a version that only ends when you uninstall the app. The album ends with a surprising climax, a warm and reverent soundscape thats full of rich harmony. Reflection is the type of ambient music that is both accessible and deeply complex. Eno has mastered that balance over the years with his skillful ambient installation albums.

Essential tracks: Reflection I, Reflection IV

Top 10 Singles

Bad & Boujee..........................................................Migos feat. Lil Uzi Vert (CU)

Black Beatles...........................................Rae Sremmurd feat. Gucci Mane (FD)

24K Magic..............................................................................Bruno Mars (CU)

Star Boy...........................................................The Weknd feat. Daft Punk (NM)

Side to Side...............................................Ariana Drande feat. Nicki Minaj (CU)

Dont Wanna Know....................................Maroon 5 feat. Kendrick Kamar (CU)

Fake Love.......................................................................................Drake (NM)

Bad Things........................................Machine Gun Kelly x Camilia Cabello (NE)

Bounce Back...............................................................................Big Sean (CU)

Cant Stop The Feeling....................................................Justin Timberlake (CU)

Legend: CU): Climbing Up (FD): Falling Down (NM): Non-mover (NE): New Entry
Tribune News Service

Haridwar, January 28

Chief Minister Harish Rawat, who is also contesting from the Haridwar rural Assembly segment, was today served a notice by the returning officer for violating the model code of conduct.

District Election Officer Harbans Singh Chugh said Congress candidate Harish Rawat was found violating the directives of the Election Commission. During his nomination procession, Harish Rawat used more vehicles than allowed by the district election office.

The returning officer has sought a reply within 48 hours. He has also asked Rawat why the expenditure of non-permitted vehicles not be included in his election expenditure account.

In case the reply was not received within the stipulated time, action would be taken against the candidate, Chugh said.

The returning officer has also served a notice on Congress candidate from Haridwar city Brahmaswarup Brahmachari for crossing the vehicles limit while coming to file his nomination papers.

The Assistant Returning Officer of the constituency has sought an explanation from the Congress candidate about the violation of the permitted limit of vehicles.

BJP leader Vikas Tiwari filed the complaint with a video footage of the cavalcade accompanying Brahmaswarup Brahmachari from his ashram till the election office at the Collectorates office at Roshanabad. He had used 200 vehicles while going to file his nomination papers yesterday, he said.

The returning officer has also sought a reply from the Congress candidate over free distribution of petrol to party workers. Similarly, the Lakshar Assistant Returning Officer has issued a notice to Independent candidate Subash Chaudhari for putting up election posters, hoardings and balloons at his election office and also at the Mont Fort Children Academy School over bridge and other public places without the permission.
Paris, January 28

US President Donald Trump's decision to limit immigration and refugees from some Muslim-majority countries is worrying, the French foreign minister said on Saturday.

"This can only worry us," Jean-Marc Ayrault, who was speaking at a joint press conference with his German counterpart Sigmar Gabriel in Paris. "Welcoming refugees who flee war and oppression is part of our duty."

Need resettlement programme

The United Nations refugee agency and International Organization for Migration (IOM) called on the Trump administration to continue offering asylum to people fleeing war and persecution, saying its resettlement programme was vital.

"The needs of refugees and migrants worldwide have never been greater and the US resettlement program is one of the most important in the world," the two Geneva-based agencies said in a joint statement.

Trump on Friday signed an executive order that will curb immigration and refugees from some Muslim-majority countries and he separately said he wanted the United States to give priority to Syrian Christians fleeing the civil war there. Reuters
Islamabad, January 28

Pakistan has expressed the hope that the Saarc summit, scheduled to be held here in November last year and postponed due to the boycott by India, will be organised soon.

Adviser to Pakistani Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz on Friday talked to Arjun Bahadur Thapa, the outgoing Secretary General of South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc), that India impeded the process and violated the spirit of the Saarc Charter.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

Pakistan remains committed to hosting the 19th Saarc Summit here at the earliest so that the objectives of regional cooperation under the Saarc umbrella can be pursued more vigorously, Xinhua news agency quoted Aziz as saying.

According to Nepal, the current Saarc Chair, the conference was cancelled after Bangladesh, Bhutan, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka followed Indias decision to boycott the summit.

Thapa emphasised the need to overcome the difficulties that the organisation faced and expressed the hope that the summit would be held as soon as possible.

The boycott from the Indian side came as relations between the neighbouring nations dipped after the September 18 attack at an Indian Army base in Uri town of Kashmir that left 19 soldiers dead. India blamed Pakistani militants for the attack.

Aziz reaffirmed Pakistans commitment to regional cooperation under the framework of Saarc for promoting welfare of the people of South Asia, improving their quality of life, economic progress, social uplift and cultural cooperation.

Aziz believed the Saarc Secretariat could play an important role as catalyst to bring all the member states together and ensure timely and effective implementation of programmes and activities that would benefit the region. IANS
Washington, January 28

President Donald Trump has put a four-month hold on allowing refugees into the United States and temporarily barred travellers from Syria and six other Muslim-majority countries, saying the moves would help protect Americans from terrorist attacks.

In the most sweeping use of his presidential powers since taking office a week ago, Trump paused the entry of travellers from Syria and the six other nations for at least 90 days, saying his administration needed time to develop more stringent screening processes for refugees, immigrants and visitors.

Im establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America. Dont want them here, Trump said earlier on Friday at the Pentagon.

We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people, he said. The order seeks to prioritise refugees fleeing religious persecution, a move Trump separately said was aimed at helping Christians in Syria. That led some legal experts to question whether the order was constitutional.

One group said it would announce a court challenge on Monday. The Council on American-Islamic Relations said the order targets Muslims because of their faith, contravening the US constitutional right to freedom of religion. The bans, though temporary, took effect immediately, causing havoc and confusion for would-be travellers with passports from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

Trump has long pledged to take this kind of action, making it a prominent feature of his campaign for the November 8 election, but people who work with Muslim immigrants and refugees were scrambling to determine the scope of the order.

Even legal permanent residents  people with green cards allowing them to live and work in the United States  were being advised to consult immigration lawyers before travelling outside the country, or trying to return, said Muslim Advocates, a civil rights group in Washington.

On Friday evening, Abed Ayoub of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee said he had fielded about 100 queries from people anxious about the order, which he said he believed could affect travelling green card holders, students, people coming to the United States for medical care and others.

During his campaign, Trump tapped into American fears about Islamic State militants and the flood of migrants into Europe from Syrias civil war. In December 2015, he called for a ban on all Muslims entering the United States, drawing fire for suggesting a religious test for immigrants that critics said would violate the US Constitution. His idea later evolved into a proposal for extreme vetting.  Reuters

Whats in Trumps order

TEMPORARY SUSPENSION OF VISAS

The order bars the entry of foreign nationals from certain countries for 90 days. While no countries are specifically named, it refers to a statute that would apply to seven Muslim-majority nations: Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia, Yemen and Iran.

RESTRICTING REFUGEES

The order calls for the temporary halt of all refugee admissions for four months so the government can study the process and determine if additional checks are necessary, although there will be case-by-case exceptions.

CHANGES TO SCREENING FOR IMMIGRATION

The order calls for a review to create a single process for screening people entering the country, which could include holding more in-person interviews, searches of an expanded database of identity documents or longer application forms. The order suspends the Visa Interview Waiver Program.

ENTRY-EXIT TRACKING

The system is aimed at tracking foreign visitors arrival and departure using information like fingerprints. Former President Barack Obamas administration had aimed to start implementing biometric exit checks at the countrys largest airports by 2018.

Malala heartbroken

London: Pakistani Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai has urged US President Donald Trump not to turn his back on the worlds most defenceless, hours after he signed an order calling for extreme vetting of people entering America from seven Muslim-majority nations. I am heartbroken that President Trump is closing the door on children, mothers and fathers fleeing violence and war, the 19-year-old Pakistani education activist, who survived a near-fatal attack by the Taliban, said in a Facebook post. PTI

FB boss takes on Prez

San Francisco: America is a nation of immigrants and should be proud of it, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg said as he criticised President Donald Trumps decision to severely limit immigrants and refugees from certain Muslim-majority countries. We need to keep this country safe, but we should do that by focusing on people who actually pose a threat... we should also keep our doors open to refugees and those who need help. Thats who we are. PTI
Washington, January 28

President Donald Trump on Friday put a four-month hold on allowing refugees into the United States and temporarily barred travelers from Syria and six other Muslim-majority countries, saying the moves would help protect Americans from terrorist attacks.

In the most sweeping use of his presidential powers since taking office a week ago, Trump paused the entry of travellers from Syria and the six other nations for at least 90 days, saying his administration needed time to develop more stringent screening processes for refugees, immigrants and visitors.

"I'm establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America. Don't want them here," Trump said earlier on Friday at the Pentagon. "We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people.

The order seeks to prioritise refugees fleeing religious persecution, a move Trump separately said was aimed at helping Christians in Syria. That led some legal experts to question whether the order was constitutional.

One group said it would announce a court challenge on Monday. The Council on American-Islamic Relations said the order targets Muslims because of their faith, contravening the US Constitutional right to freedom of religion.

"President Trump has cloaked what is a discriminatory ban against nationals of Muslim countries under the banner of national security," said Greg Chen of the American Immigration Lawyers Association.

The bans, though temporary, took effect immediately, causing havoc and confusion for would-be travelers with passports from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

Trump has long pledged to take this kind of action, making it a prominent feature of his campaign for the November 8 election, but people who work with Muslim immigrants and refugees were scrambling on Friday night to determine the scope of the order.

Even legal permanent residents  people with "green cards" allowing them to live and work in the United States  were being advised to consult immigration lawyers before traveling outside the country, or trying to return, said Muslim Advocates, a civil rights group in Washington.

On Friday evening, Abed Ayoub of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee said he had fielded about 100 queries from people anxious about the order, which he said he believed could affect travelling green card holders, students, people coming to the United States for medical care and others.

"It's chaos," Ayoub said.

Syrian refugees

During his campaign, Trump tapped into American fears about Islamic State militants and the flood of migrants into Europe from Syria's civil war, saying refugees could be a "Trojan horse" that allowed attackers to enter the United States.

In December 2015, he called for a ban on all Muslims entering the United States, drawing fire for suggesting a religious test for immigrants that critics said would violate the US Constitution.

His idea later evolved into a proposal for "extreme vetting".

Trump's order also suspends the Syrian refugee programme until further notice, and will eventually give priority to minority religious groups fleeing persecution.

Trump said in an interview with the Christian Broadcasting Network that the exception would help Syrian Christians fleeing the civil war there.

Legal experts were divided on whether this order would be constitutional.

"If they are thinking about an exception for Christians, in almost any other legal context discriminating in favor of one religion and against another religion could violate the constitution," said Stephen Legomsky, a former chief counsel at US Citizenship and Immigration Services in the Obama administration.

But Peter Spiro, a professor at Temple University Beasley School of Law, said Trump's action would likely be constitutional because the president and Congress are allowed considerable deference when it comes to asylum decisions.

"It's a completely plausible prioritisation, to the extent this group is actually being persecuted," Spiro said.

Trump's order had been expected to include a directive about setting up "safe zones" for Syrian refugees inside the country, but no such language was included on Friday.

The order may also affect special refugee programme for Iraqis who worked for the US government as translators after the 2003 invasion of Iraq.

It is already affecting refugees and their families, said Jen Smyers of the Church World Service, a Protestant faith-based group that works with migrants.

Smyers said she spoke to an Iraqi mother whose twin daughters remain in Iraq due to processing delays. "Those two 18-year-old daughters won't be able to join their mother in the US," she said.

Political fire

Democrats on Friday were quick to condemn Trump's order as un-American, saying it would tarnish the reputation of the United States as a land that welcomes immigrants.

"Today's executive order from President Trump is more about extreme xenophobia than extreme vetting," said Democratic Senator Edward Markey in a statement.

Some Republicans praised the move. Representative Bob Goodlatte, chairman of the House of Representatives Judiciary Committee, said Islamic State has threatened to use the US immigration system, making it important to do more screening.

"I am pleased that President Trump is using the tools granted to him by Congress and the power granted by the Constitution to help keep America safe and ensure we know who is entering the United States," Goodlatte said in a statement.

Republican Speaker Paul Ryan, who had panned Trump's original campaign pledge to ban Muslims from entering the United States, expressed some support on Friday.

"We are a compassionate nation, and I support the refugee resettlement programme, but it's time to reevaluate and strengthen the visa vetting process," Ryan said.

"President Trump is right to make sure we are doing everything possible to know exactly who is entering our country," Ryan said.  Reuters
Image: Mexico Secretaria de Comunicaciones y Transportes

Candidate Donald Trump made scrapping or reworking various free trade agreements the United States is party to a central theme of his presidential campaign last year. Such rhetoric was highly popular with his supporters. And in his first full week in office, President Donald Trump has made reexamination of international trade agreements a top priority for his administration.

But the North American trucking industry has benefited greatly from various free trade agreements  notably the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). In the past week, President Trump pulled out of the Trans-Pacific Partnership and angered Mexico with his insistence that NAFTA be renegotiated to give the U.S. a stronger commercial hand while creating a funding stream that would have the Mexican government pay for a wall along the southern border to check illegal immigration into the U.S.

So far, the Canadian government has expressed concerns about Presidents Trumps trade moves, while the Mexican government has signaled it would walk away from all trade agreements with the U.S. and seek new international trading partners if it is treated in a way it perceives as being unfair.

Last summer, the U.S. Department of Transportation reported that cross-border trade generated by NAFTA was worth $89 billion to the trucking industry. So are President Trumps recent actions a positive move for trucking? Or should American fleet executives be concerned?

Bill Sullivan, executive vice president of advocacy for the American Trucking Associations, said that ATA wants to help the Trump administration find a way forward on trade that keeps goods flowing and creating more jobs. "Trade and trucking are synonymous, and the increased movement of freight yields more good paying jobs and growth in American companies, Sullivan said.

We want to help the administration and Congress build a trade framework that helps grow our economy, including the trucking industry," he continued. "Since 1995, the value of goods traveling between the U.S. and Canada has risen dramatically  nearly 168% to $712 billion, supporting thousands of jobs in the trucking industry. For U.S. trade with Mexico, trucks move 83% of the trade between the two countries, in all making 5.5 million crossings in 2015. We will work to support any trade policies that help grow good-paying American jobs and the trucking industry."

A Mixed Bag

Marina Whitman, professor of Business Administration and Public Policy at the University of Michigan, contends some aspects of Trumps trade plans would certainly benefit truck fleets. Reforming corporate taxes and certain moves to deregulate the industry would certainly be beneficial for fleets, she said. On the other hand, the strong protectionist slant taken by the Trump administration is, I think, significantly damaging to industry in general and trucking in particular, since trucking is highly sensitive to any disruption in this highly integrated market.

Simply put, Whitman said that when trade is growing, freight moves. And if any of President Trumps protectionist proposals become fact, they will put a real damper on trade in general, she noted. The Canadians are very concerned about the animus aimed at Mexico from the Trump White House, because their industries  particularly their automotive industry  is highly integrated with Mexico. And they are very worried they will get caught in the fallout from a major U.S.-Mexico trade dispute. And that would be bad for trucking because the physical movement of goods and services is highly important to that economic success.

Whitman said private, high-level meetings are taking place as the Canadians attempt to convince the Trump administration of the dangers of disrupting these highly integrated markets. There are no other markets trucking can look to if these agreements end, she added. Digital commerce cannot make up the shortfalls that will occur in the trucking industry if that happens.

A Pure Loss of Demand

There are positive and negative attributes to any trade deal, according to Greg Wright, a professor of economics at the University of California, Merced. But Wright said fleets should be wary of any moves that completely undo such agreements in haste.

My understanding is that upwards of 60% of NAFTA trade is truck-based, with rail second and then probably air, I would guess he said. So there is probably little replacement for this trade coming from anywhere since these are the U.S. land borders. There is of course a simultaneous growth in internet-based commerce which certainly can be good for trucking-- provided that drone-based shipments dont take off too quickly or that autonomous trucks dont take over!-- but I see this as separate from NAFTA, meaning that losing NAFTA would be a pure loss of demand for trucking.

Looking westward toward Asia, Wright thinks opportunities for growth in trucking exist, but doubts the current administration will pursue them vigorously. Asia is the fastest growing economic region and is a natural opportunity for growth in trade, he said. But my sense is that this administration is likely to be consistent in its policies across all trading partners, meaning they will move to slow trade with Asia as well. In fact, they recently pulled the US out of the TPP, which is consistent with this idea.

"Trade with Asia is indeed potentially good for U.S. trucking since a large proportion of trade through LA/Long Beach, Oakland and Seattle-Tacoma is put on rail and truck for shipment across the country," he explained. "When I lived in Oakland, my barometer for the state of the US economy was how high are the containers stacked in the shipping yard, and how many trucks are lined up at the gate.

In general, Wright said any policy that raises the cost of trade with Mexico and Canada will hurt trucking. This is an important point because it highlights the larger issues here, he noted. Foremost, U.S. exporters are also U.S. importers: There is an enormous overlap between the set of firms engaged in these activities. More generally, two-thirds of global trade is in intermediate goods, meaning inputs into the production process, with the result that when US imports are taxed, firms face higher costs and firm productivity falls. It is absolutely true that some jobs may be saved, but the existing evidence indicates that this is a very inefficient [costly] way to save jobs.

The reality today, Wright added, is that the global supply chain is incredibly sophisticated and NAFTA is emblematic of that. Auto transmissions are made in Canada and brake lights in Mexico, etc. and trucking keeps the whole process going, he said. So, I would say that U.S. truckers should be very wary of any effort to close the southern border to commerce.

"Trumps proposals are particularly dangerous because they are so extreme," he continued. "A new 20% import tariff between two countries that participated in a free trade zone is sure to set off a series of legal actions in NAFTA adjudication panels, WTO adjudication panels, and U.S. and Mexican courts. It is also very likely to provoke retaliation from Mexico in the form of raised tariffs and other barriers. This could dramatically cut the demand for moving freight across the border as well as interfere with the legal ability to do so.

Cause For Concern

NAFTA benefits American trucking companies in two ways, said Charles Hankla, associate professor of Political Science, Georgia State University. Most directly, he said NAFTA has greatly facilitated the ability of American trucking companies to move freight across the border into Mexico and Canada, significantly increasing the market for those services. Less directly, but probably of equal importance, Hankla said NAFTA has encouraged the integration of production across the three countries, creating demand for raw materials, capital goods, and finished products to be moved back and forth across the borders.

Of course, NAFTA has also allowed Canadian and more recently, after an extended dispute, Mexican truckers to carry freight into the United States, increasing competition for American trucking companies, Hankla noted. But the overall growth in business has almost certainly offset this effect.

Hankla said one possible move on trade proposed by the Trump administration has been imposing a border adjustment tax which, if approved by Congress, would allow U.S. companies to deduct their export income from their tax base, but it would also disallow them from deducting their import costs.

Whether a particular company would benefit from this change would depend on their import-export mix, Hankla explained. So, for example, a company that sells in the U.S. but imports their production inputs would be hurt, while a company that sources in the U.S. and exports the bulk of their product would benefit. That said, the danger for all U.S. businesses in this proposal is that, because it discriminates against foreign production, it would likely be contested under international trade law and might also invite retaliation.

"In the final analysis," he added, "any U.S. trucking firms that do a lot of business in Mexico and Canada, or that work for companies that are dependent on international trade, whether for inputs or markets, should be concerned about the direction that the Trump administration is heading.
The federal governments securities fraud suit against Daniel C. Ustian, former chairman and CEO of Navistar International, can proceed in spite of objections raised by Ustians attorneys, a federal judge has ruled.

Ustian had promoted a unique diesel exhaust emissions solution. But the Securities and Exchange Commission has charged in its suit that he knew it couldnt work, with subsequent losses to company investors.

Federal Judge Sara Ellis, of the Northern District of Illinios, made the ruling earlier this week, reported the Springfield (Ohio) News-Sun.

Because the SEC sufficiently alleges that Ustians statements were misleading and material to the investing public and that Ustian knew this, the SEC sufficiently states a claim for securities fraud, wrote Judge Ellis. The SEC also sufficiently alleges that Navistar violated the securities laws and that Ustian is liable for Navistars violations.

From late 2009 and for several years after, Ustian said an approach called Advanced-EGR (exhaust-gas recirculation) would meet federal Environmental Protection Agency standards. But the SEC says continued testing by Navistar engineers showed it wouldnt work. Meanwhile, Ustian led a marketing assault on competitors who used selective catalytic reduction, the exhaust aftertreatment requiring urea (diesel exhaust fluid) injection, as inconvenient and expensive.

Navistar investors revolted when serious problems with A-EGR became known, customers complained, sales sagged, expensive warranty claims caused losses for the company, and stock value fell. Ustian was dismissed in August 2012, and last year Navistar paid a $7.5-million fine to the government for violating emissions rules.

Judge Ellis further wrote that: The United States Securities and Exchange Commission alleges that Defendant Daniel C. Ustian, Navistars former CEO and president, was so driven by a desire to produce an engine that the EPA would approve and customers would buy, he engaged in securities fraud and misled investors to think that Navistar had such an engine despite knowing that Navistar could not produce an engine that could satisfy both the EPA and Navistars customers .

However, Ellis also ruled that the SEC didnt sufficiently support allegations that Ustian is liable for statements to investors in 2012 at an analyst conference call, and so cannot proceed on those claims.

The SEC suit does not address financial losses suffered by truck owners due to the A-EGR diesels lack of reliability. Navistar diesels now are equipped with SCR equipment supplied by Cummins, and Cummins diesels are popular options.

Navistar continues to work to reduce losses and regain sales. In September, it was announced that Volkswagen Truck & Bus is taking a 16.6% equity stake in Navistar International Corp. as part of a wide-ranging strategic alliance that will initially focus on providing powertrains for Navistar trucks starting in 2019.
WASHINGTON  The flurry of bold executive orders and of highly provocative Cabinet nominations (such as a secretary of education who actually believes in school choice) has been encouraging to conservative skeptics of Donald Trump. But it shouldnt erase the troubling memory of one major element of Trumps inaugural address.

The foreign policy section has received far less attention than so revolutionary a declaration deserved. It radically redefined the American national interest as understood since World War II.

Trump outlined a world in which foreign relations are collapsed into a zero-sum game. They gain, we lose. As in: For many decades, weve enriched foreign industry at the expense of American industry; subsidized the armies of other countries while depleting our own. And most provocatively this: The wealth of our middle class has been ripped from their homes and then redistributed all across the world.

JFKs inaugural pledged to support any friend and oppose any foe to assure the success of liberty. Note that Trump makes no distinction between friend and foe (and no reference to liberty). Theyre all out to use, exploit and surpass us.

No more, declared Trump: From this day forward, its going to be only America First.

Imagine how this resonates abroad. America First was the name of the organization led by Charles Lindbergh that bitterly fought FDR before U.S. entry into World War II  right through the Battle of Britain  to keep America neutral between Churchills Britain and Hitlers Reich.

Not that Trump was consciously imitating Lindbergh. I doubt he was even aware of the reference. He just liked the phrase. But I can assure you that in London and in every world capital they are aware of the antecedent and the intimations of a new American isolationism. Trump gave them good reason to think so, going on to note the right of all nations to put their own interests first. America included.

Some claim that putting America first is a reassertion of American exceptionalism. On the contrary, it is the antithesis. It makes America no different from all the other countries that define themselves by a particularist blood-and-soil nationalism. What made America exceptional, unique in the world, was defining its own national interest beyond its narrow economic and security needs to encompass the safety and prosperity of a vast array of allies. A free world marked by open trade and mutual defense was President Trumans vision, shared by every president since.

Until now.

Some have argued that Trump is just dangling a bargaining chip to negotiate better terms of trade or alliance. Or that Trumps views are so changeable and unstable  telling European newspapers two weeks ago that NATO is obsolete and then saying NATO is very important to me  that this is just another unmoored entry on a ledger of confusion.

But both claims are demonstrably wrong. An inaugural address is no off-the-cuff riff. These words are the product of at least three weeks of deliberate crafting for an address that Trump said would express his philosophy. Moreover, to remove any ambiguity, Trump prefaced his America first proclamation with: From this day forward, a new vision will govern our land.

Trumps vision misunderstands the logic underlying the far larger, far-reaching view of Truman. The Marshall Plan sure took wealth away from the American middle class and distributed it abroad. But for a reason. Altruism, in part. But mostly to stabilize Western Europe as a bulwark against an existential global enemy.

We carried many free riders throughout the Cold War. The burden was heavy. But this was not a mindless act of charity; it was an exercise in enlightened self-interest. After all, it was indeed better to subsidize foreign armies  German, South Korean, Turkish and dozens of others  and have them stand with us, rather than stationing even more American troops everywhere around the world at greater risk of both blood and treasure.

We are embarking upon insularity and smallness. Nor is this just theory. Trumps long-promised but nonetheless abrupt withdrawal from the Trans-Pacific Partnership is the momentous first fruit of his foreign policy doctrine. Last year the prime minister of Singapore told John McCain that if we pulled out of TPP youll be finished in Asia. He knows the region.

For 70 years, we sustained an international system of open commerce and democratic alliances that has enabled America and the West to grow and thrive. Global leadership is what made America great. We abandon it at our peril.

Charles Krauthammers email address is letters@charleskrauthammer.com.
Acclaimed British actor Sir John Hurt, best known for films including The Elephant Man and Alien, has died aged 77.

He announced in 2015 that he had pancreatic cancer, but continued working.

He was given the all-clear in October 2015 but last year pulled out of the stage play The Entertainer due on the advice of his doctors.

Hurt was one of Britains best-known and most versatile actors. Over six decades, he appeared in more than 120 films as well as numerous stage and television roles, widely admired for his range, intensity and empathy in portraying the most complicated and outcast lives.

After a promising start on stage, he found his first notable screen role in 1966s A Man for All Seasons, which starred Paul Scofield as the martyred Englishman Thomas More.

He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2014 and has been twice nominated for an Academy Award  for 1978s Midnight Express, and for playing the title role of John Merrick in David Lynchs 1980 biopic The Elephant Man.

He played wand-maker Mr Ollivander in the Harry Potter films, an erudite English writer smitten with Jason Priestley in Love and Death on Long Island, and an omniscient, enigmatic billionaire who funds an astronomer (Jodie Foster) in Contact.

The death of his character in the film Alien has often been voted as one of cinemas most memorable moments.

Hurt also played the everyman protagonist Winston Smith in Nineteen Eighty-Four, the spy chief known as Control in Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, and can currently be seen in the biopic Jackie opposite Natalie Portman.

On the small screen, Hurt played the gay British writer Quentin Crisp in The Naked Civil Servant, the crazed Roman emperor Caligula in I, Claudius, and the grizzled War Doctor in Doctor Who, and he lent his voice to projects including Watership Down and Merlin.

Of his chameleon roles and craft, he once said, The only way I can describe it is that I put everything I can into the mulberry of my mind and hope that it is going to ferment and make a decent wine.

How that process happens, Im sorry to tell you I cant describe.

Mel Brooks paid tribute to Hurt, who had starred in his comedy Spaceballs, saying on Twitter: No one could have played The Elephant Man more memorably.

He carried that film into cinematic immortality. He will be sorely missed.

Stephen Fry praised Sir John for being great on the stage, small screen and big.



Lord of the Rings star Elijah Wood said: It was such an honor to have watched you work, sir.

Hurt was deeply respected by his peers, and received a lifetime achievement award from the British Academy of Film and Television Arts in 2012.

Source: BBC, EW, People, Washington Post
Hi, my name is Scott C. Waring and I wrote a few books and am currently a ESL School Owner in Taiwan. I have had my own UFO sighting up close and personal, but that's how it works right? A non believer becomes a believer when they experience their first sighting. You witnessed it, your perceptual field changes, so now you need to share it.





I created this site to help the UFO community get a little bit organized. I noticed that there was a lot of chaos when searching for UFO sighting reports, so I hope this site helps. I wanted to support those eyewitnesses who have tried to tell others about what they have seen, yet were laughed at by even closest of friends.





More and more each day the governments of the world leak bits and pieces of UFO information to the public. They have a trickle down theory in hopes of slowly getting citizens use to the idea that we are not alone in universe and never have been. The truth is being leaked drop by drop until one day we look around and find ourselves neck high in it.





The discovery of alien species in existence is the most monumental scientific event in human history, suppression of that information is a crime against humanity.





About me:

I live in Taiwan. I OWN MY OWN ENGLISH SCHOOL, AND ONCE HAD 5 SCHOOLS.

Am Former USAF at SAC base (flight line).

Age: 42

Educ: BA in Elem ed. Masters in Counseling ed.





I had two UFO sightings, (30+bus size orbs) in military and in 2012 personally saw the UFO over Taipei 101 building on New Years Day (and recored it).
The guest speaker for this item was Amin Awad, Director of the Bureau for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and Refugee Coordinator for the Syria and Iraq situations.

Heavy rains and flooding have caused widespread damage to five camps providing shelter to some 90,000 of the most vulnerable Sahrawi refugees in south-west Algeria's arid Tindouf region. UNHCR and its partners have begun to assist some 25,000 people (5,000 families) whose homes and food supplies were damaged or destroyed.

The number of people in need could increase as the rains, which began last Friday, are forecast to continue until at least Sunday. There have been no reports of casualties among the refugees in the hardest hit Awserd and Dakhla camps as well as Laayoune, Boujdour and Smara camps.

UNHCR is playing a leading role in the humanitarian response, working with the Sahrawi refugee population, as well as UN agencies WFP and UNICEF and other partners. In a joint effort, bread, fresh food and drinking water is being delivered to the camps. Algeria's Department of Civil Protection is also assisting.

Those left homeless are being sheltered by relatives and neighbours, but we plan over the next two days to airlift in 1,500 family tents, 10,000 plastic sheets and 400 plastic rolls to address the immediate shelter needs, as well as 10,000 blankets, 2,000 jerry cans and kitchen sets. UNHCR will also provide shelter materials to repair buildings.

An assessment conducted earlier this week by the Sahrawi Red Crescent shows that hundreds of mud-brick homes have been destroyed or damaged. Those living in traditional Sahrawi tents were spared the worst of the devastation, but only a minority of families possess such tents.

Other infrastructure damaged or destroyed includes dispensaries, hospitals, schools, shops, livestock sheds. Meanwhile, latrines will need to be rebuilt and floodwaters will need to be quickly removed to avoid disease, contamination of water sources and building collapses.

As of Wednesday, with the rains continuing, all five camps at Tindouf - Awserd, Dakhla, Laayoune, Boujdour and Smara - were flooded completely or in part. Although there is little rain in the Sahara for most of the year, when it does come it can be devastating, especially for mud-brick constructions.

Sahrawi refugees began arriving in Tindouf in the mid-1970s after Spain withdrew from the Western Sahara and fighting broke out over its control. Most of the Sahrawi refugees have been living for some 40 years in the harsh Tindouf area.

UNHCR is urgently appealing to donors for emergency funds to respond to the flooding crisis. UNHCR's 2015 budget for the Tindouf operation is around just 20 per cent, leaving a huge funding gap and restricting operational activities.

For more information on this topic, please contact:
Sudanese refugee women prepare to fill their containers with precious water at a camp in eastern Chad.  UNHCR/A.Rehrl

ABECHE, Chad, December 15 (UNHCR) - Two things that newly arrived aid workers notice pretty quickly in eastern Chad are the lack of water and the sand that seems to get everywhere. With climate change, the situation is likely to get worse - less water and creeping desertification in the semi-arid terrain.

Trying to bathe in Abeche, the main city in eastern Chad, is a major exercise for people used to a regular flow of soothing, cleansing water from showers in more developed nations. Water is only available for a couple of hours once every four or five days and the taps are left open for the magic moment when the flow of H20 gushes out to be collected in an array of pots, pans and buckets.

But for the locals and the 250,000 Sudanese refugees living not too far away in 12 sprawling UNHCR-run camps, washing themselves is an unattainable luxury. They struggle just to get the recommended 15-20 litres per day of water needed for drinking, cooking and cleaning the dust and sand off their hands and faces. Many can only find 5-6 litres.

Water is a scarce resource in eastern Chad at the best of times, but when you are living side by side with thousands of other refugees in a camp, it becomes a major issue. Moreover, there are signs that the annual rainfall has been getting lower and lower, affecting the water table as well as the soil and flora.

UNHCR and its partners, including the Chad government, are addressing the effects of climate change with programmes aimed at better management of dwindling water resources and at holding back desertification by planting trees in one of the driest and hottest countries on earth.

And it's getting drier, with rainfall particularly low in 2009. In the town of Iriba, which hosts 55,000 Sudanese refugees from Darfur in three camps, just 135 millimetres of rain has fallen since the beginning of this year, according to Chad Ministry of Environment figures. This compares to 355mm for the whole of 1950.

The rain nowadays is too little to hold the line against creeping desertification; plants cannot survive for long without sufficient water in the soil. And because of this year's extremely poor rains, the UN expects a food crisis for several million people in Chad and other Sahel countries in 2010.

Moreover, evaporation, diversion of water for agriculture and desertification have seen the once mighty Lake Chad shrink in size from 25,000 square kilometres in the early 1960s to just 3,000 square kilometres today. Heavy winds are moving the Sahara sands southward across the lake.

Lack of water and the dried out soil not only affect bio-diversity but also keep harvests low. As one result, animals don't get enough pasture and many die of malnutrition and related diseases, further affecting the food chain.

Meanwhile, the UN refugee agency has been working in Chad to stem desertification and to mitigate the effects of dwindling water reserves and high consumption. "The only way to fight desertification in the long term is to engage in large reforestation programmes," said Andrea Masini, a UNHCR environment officer. Since 2006, UNHCR has planted 300,000 saplings a year in Chad, out of which some 60 per cent have survived. Refugees and locals have planted another 1.2 million trees, including forest species such as acacia and fruit trees like lemon and mango.

In a further bid to halt desertification, UNHCR and its partners have provided firewood to refugees who would otherwise go out and cut down trees and shrubs - a practice now banned by the government. Alternative fuel sources, such as gas and biogas, have been introduced in Chad and other countries, along with energy saving stoves and solar-powered cookers.

To protect eastern Chad's scarce water reserves, UNHCR and the Ministry of Environment have been implementing a more sustainable strategy. The three-year approach uses a combination of modern and traditional techniques. In the first year, new wells and boreholes have been dug in the camps and surrounding villages, while a special team searches for new underground reserves.

Also this year, the refugee and local communities have been taught to use different water sources for different purposes: for drinking, for livestock, for cultivation and for construction work. As a next step, electrical pumps will be replaced by manual pumps, which are easier to use and cheaper to maintain.

All wells will be naturally replenished each year during the July-September rainy season. By constructing traditional wells in dry river beds, the water reserves deep under the desert will be preserved.

In addressing the effects of climate change today, aid workers, refugees and locals will be helping future generations to continue using the earth's resources in the future in this arid corner of the world.

By Annette Rehrl in Abeche, Chad
The OIAC is allied with the Iranian dissident group Mujahedin-e-Khalq (MEK) and advocates for a democratic, secular and non-nuclear government, and overthrowing the religious dictatorship in Iran.

Republican Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen called for an expansion of the sanctions against Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which were not removed during the nuclear deal.

She said: It is time that we put the tools that we have created to use, broadening our sanctions so that they include IRGC-controlled businesses and subsidiaries. We must target the (Iranian) regime at every turn, not only enforcing the sanctions that have been too long neglected, but expanding their scope whenever and wherever possible.

The lawmakers also want to stop IRGC-affiliated companies from buying US-made passenger planes, which would likely be used to ship weapons, troops and even money to terrorist cells.

Democratic Congressman Brad Sherman co-sponsored a bill to require the Trump administration to report any signs of Iran using US-made aircraft for illicit military or other activities which would violate the terms of the 2015 nuclear deal.

He said: We need an ironclad system that makes sure (any newly-acquired planes with American technology) are not used for military or terrorist purposes (by Iran).

During his campaign, Trump promised to renegotiate the Iranian Nuclear Deal- unlike his Republican opponents, Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio, who promised to rip up the deal, on their first day in office- but has not made steps towards it yet.

Sherman also wanted to prevent US banks from loaning Iran any money to pay for new planes.

Republican Congressman Dana Rohrabacher called for increased political pressure against the Iranian despots, especially to protect the human rights of the people living there.

He said: One strategy is to help pro-democracy movements who would replace the mullahs. Im willing to help the Azeris, Baluch and Kurds, who are not part of the Persian majority, to create a situation where you have autonomous regions similar to the states of the United States so that those peoples rights will feel secure as well.

Democratic Congressman Eliot Engel explained that he wanted to help the Iranian dissidents who were previously exiled to Camp Liberty in Iraq, but have since been safely relocated to Albania.

He noted that they still have not received the money from the sale of their property in Iraq; an estimated $50 million left at Camp Liberty and $500 million at Camp Ashraf. This money is needed to help them make a new life, without handouts.

He said: As all of their expenses in Albania are paid by MEK, they need their money to be returned as soon as possible. So, I urge Iraq, which the United States has helped for so many years, to honour its commitment to return the money to MEK.
College is the best time for students to focus on the basic skills required for their jobs that can last until retirement; it is also an ideal time when we learn more of how to become successful entrepreneurs. Our ability to create and execute innovation that can provide work and social well-being is something that is almost innate, it only needs to be awakened and refined. But, selecting the right college is important because it plays a key role to prepare you for entrepreneurial success after graduation. So here are a few tips to help you get started in cultivating your future entrepreneur.

Take the right classes

Now that you are in college, you have all the opportunities and resources to help you excel in the future, and you should not be taking these things for granted. You should also remember that being an entrepreneur does not just require for you to learn the basics of finance and accounting, you also have to learn to understand people which is why you can also explore the liberal arts, according to the Huffington Post. Becoming a better manager does not mean you have to solely bury your head into business books.

Learn effective communication

Your ability to present yourself effectively and creatively is a skill that all entrepreneur should have, according to Noodle. Being able to communicate your ideas is important in the world of business because you will be speaking to a lot of people face to face especially when launching your business.

Learn outside of the classroom

One of the best learning in college takes place outside of the classroom, which is why it is important for you to take advantage of all of the opportunities to gain hands on experience. These experiences will give you a how it is really like in the real world. Do not be afraid to get involved.
The University of California meeting room was overwhelmed with frustration Thursday as regents considered the first tuition fee increase for the first time in six years.

According to ABC7 News, students will be expected to pay an extra $337 in tuition starting next year. The fees for the student services would increase to $1,128, but according to Dianne Klein, UC spokeswoman, the financial aid would be able to cover the increases for the two thirds of the university's California resident students.

As for the nonresident undergraduates, they would be facing a total increase of $1,688, LA Times reported.

The meeting was attended by only a handful of students, as many of them felt that the increase was modest and overdue. One regent said that the student costs alone are already very painful, and another one raised questions as to whether there could be alternatives to bring in more money without having to burden students and families.

Klein said that they have already reached the point that called for the hike, or the quality of education will have to suffer, and that they want to give the new students if not the same, a much better learning experience than the ones who came before them.

Lieutenant Governor Gavin Newsom told the regents that students do not find the decision surprising anymore, because people have come to expect that, he said, although he voted against the increase. While most regents voted in favor of the hike, they also said that the state should somehow provide more funding for the university.

UC Chief Financial Officer Nathan Brostrom also told regents there was no other choice because their resources have already reached their limit. However, critics have emphasized the additional burden this will be placed on the students who are struggling to pay for their education.
Milo Yiannopoulos is described to be a troll and provocateur because of the negative behavior he displays in order to entertain viewers and readers. However, Nicholas Dirks, the Chancellor at the University of California at Berkeley, says that the Berkeley College Republicans still have a constitutional right to invite him to speak next week.

According to Dirks, he is known for engaging in hate speech directed towards particular members of the audience as well as the LGBTQ community, as reported by Patch. In an attempt to stop the event from happening, thousands of students and protesters flock to the campus to prevent him from speaking next week. More than a thousand people have voiced on Facebook that they are going to protest the event, too. But Dirks insists that even "trolls" have the right to speak.

Milo Yiannopoulos is a known journalist for Breitbart with a reputation for being vocal about religion, political correctness and social justice. But regardless of him being described as a "troll," Dirks insists that his arrival and feature is not to be mistaken as the university's endorsement of his personal views and opinions.

The event which will happen on Feb. 1, 7:00 p.m. at the Pauley Ballroom of the MLK Student Union, is already sold out.

But that is not the only event Yiannopoulos is attending. He was supposed to lead a joint appearance with pharmaceutical executive Martin Shkreli at UC Davis but protesters blocked the gates and the event was canceled. Another event, on Feb. 2, was canceled because they are unable to provide Yiannopoulos' requests, as reported by Fox 2. His requests are coming from his team of bodyguards.

Milo Yiannopoulos says that he travels with bodyguards because his tour is a multi-million dollar operation. The security requirements involved are mandatory and he has to work with the university to get it done. The university and campus Republicans are reportedly going to shoulder the cost.

In other related news, University of California, Berkeley designed a small robot that can leap into the air and then spring off a wall:
Ellen Ochoa, the current director of the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center is now a member of the National Science Board.

Maria Zuber, the NSB Chairwoman, says that Ellen Ochoa's addition to the National Science Board means that she is going to bring a whole set of experiences and ideas that everyone is looking forward to hear.

Ochoa started her career as a research engineer at Sandia National Laboratories after getting her Ph.D. from Stanford University and she is a veteran of four space flights and previously served as Deputy Director and Director of Flight Crew Operations at NASA.

She is also the first to travel to space in 1993 on a nine day mission aboard the Discovery, as reported by Space Ref. She also logged almost a thousand hours of space time in orbit. As well as being the first Hispanic and second female director of NASA's Johnson Space Center on January 2013.

In addition to her expertise, she is also the first Hispanic woman to go to space in the Discovery mission.

According to Ochoa, she looks forward to contributing to the discussion on America's science policy. She will serve on the National Science Board until May 2022 and will help provide insight to research and development, STEM education and workforce training. During her six year term, she represents science and engineering.

She is passionate about STEM education and has voiced out its importance. In her honor, an elementary school was named after her as the Ellen Ochoa Elementary School in Cudahy, CA. In 2014, another school opened in East Los Angeles, CA as the Animo Ellen Ochoa Charter Middle School. In Grand Prairie, Texas, a school is named as Ellen Ochoa STEM Academy at the Ben Milam Elementary School, as featured in Start Class.

Ellen Ochoa was one a Women in STEM Honoree for her amazing work in the STEM field, paving the way for for more girls and women to pursue STEM careers. Watch the video below for more info:
With Donald Trump's official takeover of the White House, a lot of undocumented students are worried about their future. A new Senate Bill has been proposed to help this type of students.

The Hartford Courant reported that the proposed Senate Bill 17, also known as the Afford to Dream Bill, aims to give undocumented students access to financial aid funds for public colleges and universities. One of the groups advocating for the bill is Connecticut Students for a Dream.

Undocumented students are unable to get support from the government, especially through need-based grants, because they do not have a Social Security number. It is a requirement to fill out the application.

Critics of the proposal have warned that aid taken by undocumented students will mean less money for students with lawful status. On the other hand, supporters argued that obstacles that college students face that hinders them from graduating hurts the state workforce now as well as in the future.

According to News 12, immigrant students and state lawmakers protested in Hartford against President Donald Trump. The 45th President of the United States has been vocal about his plans for illegal immigration.

The state Senate passed the Afford to Dream Bill last year. However, it reportedly died in the House. This year, its future is now on the Higher Education Committee's hands.

The Day noted that Rep. Chris Soto, D-New London, described the barring of undocumented students from the financial aid fund as "one of the most unfair and egregious policies" that they've had. Soto founded Higher Edge, a nonprofit organization that helps low-income and first-generation immigrant students with their higher education.

Sen. Art Linares of Westbrook has opposed the bill, saying that the state may lose federal funding if its immigration policies are not in line with that of the Trump administration. Last Wednesday, President Trump has already promised to remove federal funds from sanctuary cities that do not follow and implement the immigration laws.
Chancellor Frank Brogan of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education has announced a review that will lead to big changes to schools in the state. This comes in the midst of a budget crisis that is affecting the nation.

According to CBS News, Brogan said that the previous way of doing things is "simply not good enough anymore." He announced a review of Pennsylvania's public higher education system.

Brogan oversees 14 state universities. The review could lead to mergers or closures of one or more of five area schools: California, Clarion, Edinboro, Indiana, and Slippery Rock.

He admitted that higher education in Pennsylvania is facing consistent challenges in enrollment. There are less college-aged students in the state.

In the past six years, California's student enrollment has dropped by about 1,900 with 9,400 in 2010 and just 7,553 students in 2016. Clarion had a 2,100 decrease while Edinboro and Indiana went down by 2,500 and 2,300, respectively.

Lehigh Valley Live reported that Chancellor Brogan believes that Pennsylvania's university system may need to go through mergers or closures in some campuses. The state funding for the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, which is $444 million last year, is the same amount provided to the university 17 years ago.

Brogan also praised the faculty for their dedication, describing them as "the heart and soul" of the institutions. Board of governors chairperson Cynthia Shapira expressed her praise to the hard work and dedication of the faculty and staff at the 14 universities in the state.

The chancellor did not mention of a timeline on the review and when the changes will be applied. He did, however, promise a closer look at the system before pushing through with the "dynamic changes."

State system universities include Cheyney, Bloomsburg, California, Clarion, East Stroudsburg, Edinboro, Indiana, Kutztown, Lock Haven, Mansfield, Millersville, Shippensburg, Slippery Rock and West Chester.
Each of the three nations would be responsible for their own zone and, as a condition, all forces from the Iranian Regime, the pro-Iranian Shiite militias and Hezbollah will have to leave.

The American military will have two security zones; one covering the area between the Euphrates River and the Iraqi border. Russia will be responsible for all the area between the Euphrates and the Mediterranean coast.

This will, in part, resurrect the deal between Barack Obama and Putin in late 2015, for the division of Syria. Except for the involvement of Turkey, who will now take control of the area along the Syria-Turkey border, extending up to Al-Bab, the Syrian town where the Turkish military has been fighting ISIS for three months straight.

The second US military zone will be adjacent to adjacent to Syrias borders with Israel and Jordan.

DEBKAfile notes: Israelis will breathe a sigh of relief over the removal of the threat of Iranian and Hezbollah forces being deployed along their northern border with Syria.
Soon after Netanyahu had delivered this message to American legislators and the general public, Donald Trump became a particularly prominent domestic voice for the same sort of criticisms, repeatedly using his presidential campaign to describe the nuclear agreement as one of the worst deals of all time. Now that Trump has officially taken over the presidency from Mr. Obama, there is natural kinship between the new White House and the Netanyahu government with regard to this issue. And that kinship was explored early this week in a telephone call between the two world leaders.

That conversation presumably contributed to Netanyahus subsequent remarks claiming that President Trump possessed a firm understanding of the danger that Iran poses to Israel and to the region as a whole. Netanyahus conclusions apparently had to do not only with Trumps eagerness to pursue more assertive action in the nuclear sphere, but also his recognition of the Iranian regimes naturally aggressive and combative tendencies.

Netanyahu himself delivered a speech on Friday to mark Holocaust Remembrance Day, in which he began by pointing to signs of anti-Semitism in Europe and the rest of the world, but then went on to underscore the very particular danger presented to Israeli by the Iranian regime. The Algemeiner quotes him as saying, The ayatollah regime is fanning [the] flames [of antisemitism] and calling outright for the destruction of the Jewish state. He then went on to reiterate his governments vow to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and other means of mass murder.

It remains to be seen what actual initiatives the Trump administration will pursue for the sake of supporting this aim, or in order to alter US policy toward Iran in general. But it is widely expected that he will move quickly to counteract Obama administration policies that critics decried as weak and conciliatory. The apparently friendly conversations that have taken place between the Trump White House and the Netanyahu administration bolster this perception and suggest that Trump may indulge the guidance and cooperation of some of Irans greatest adversaries.

There has been some speculation that the Trump administration, in addition to restoring damaged relations with Israel, may also reverse the longstanding marginalization of Iranian resistance groups, chiefly the Peoples Mojahedin Organization of Iran. Much of this speculation has arisen from the fact that some of Trumps earliest or strongest supporters within mainstream American politics are also well-known supporters of the PMOI. These include former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani and former US Ambassador to the UN John Bolton. Both have spoken at the PMOIs annual summertime rally in Paris, as well as advocating for the group within US political circles.

To whatever extent these and other such figures may be able to influence the new president, that influence promises to be amplified by complementary pressure from the Republican-dominated Congress, where the PMOI enjoys a good deal of additional support. Voice of America News reported on Friday that several members of the House of Representatives, representing both the Republican and the Democratic Parties, had met earlier in the week with the Organization of Iranian-American Communities, which is affiliated with the PMOI.

The bipartisan delegation gave assurances that they would hold President Trump to account when the time came for his administration to follow up on its tough talk regarding Iran policy. One member of that delegation, Republican Representative Dana Rohrabacher, explicitly declared that in addition to increasing pressure on the Islamic Republic, the US government should make a concerted effort to assist and empower pro-democracy movements who would replace the mullahs.

No official in the Trump administration has yet endorsed this policy, but Secretary of Defense James Mattis used confirmation hearings early this month to expand upon Trumps campaign-trail rhetoric regarding Iran policy. Though Mattis struck a more moderate tone than Trump on the nuclear issue in particular, he insisted that generally speaking, the Islamic Republic of Iran is the greatest destabilizing force in the Middle East today.

A recent report by Townhall reminded readers of this commentary, and it added that former CIA Director David Petraeus had met with the White House transition team and had likely advised Trump that a military response to Iranian threats should remain on the table. Mattis and Petraeus both appear to maintain that a credible American military threat can be a useful, and perhaps even a necessary tool in making it clear to Tehran that there will be consequences for a range of particularly egregious behaviors.

Petraeus cited the pursuit of nuclear arms as one such behavior, but he also referred to Irans well-known efforts to establish itself at the head of Shiite hegemony in the Middle East, and to partition much of the region into a Shiite crescent that is poised for conflict with areas of hardline Sunni influence. Meanwhile, Townhall notes that Mattis has expressed concern over the direct threat that Iran poses to American forces as assets, as evidenced by its provocative gestures against US Naval vessels and aircraft in and around the Persian Gulf.

In the aftermath of the nuclear agreement, close encounters between American vessels and those belonging to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps became more than twice as frequent. In some instances, IRGC patrol boats refused to disengage from American warships until warning shots were fired. And in other instances, the IRGC explicitly threatened to shoot down aircraft if they strayed into Iranian airspace. And most of this occurred after another incident in which 10 American sailors were seized while on a training exercise in the Gulf, briefly detained, and used in numerous propaganda broadcasts.

These provocations were specifically cited by Donald Trump in his criticisms of Obama-era weakness. And in retrospect they may similarly fuel his potential moves toward closer relations with Irans key adversaries. However, it is also worth noting that Trumps Iran policy may utilize not only those established adversaries, but also at least one country that is currently supporting Iran.

Much has been said about Trumps supposed connections to Russia and his supposed personal fondness for its leadership. But on Thursday, an editorial in the Orange County Register explored the potential Washington-Moscow relationship specifically in terms of Trumps prospective confrontation with Iran. By pursuing improved relations with Russia, the Trump administration could help convince Moscow to weaken its existing support for Iran, including its support of Iranian activities in the Syrian Civil War.

It has already been widely suggested that Iranian and Russian interests are diverging there. In that case, Russia may not require all that much convincing from Trump, who has eagerly boasted of his credentials as a deal maker. The Register stops short of saying that such a deal would be perfectly in line with American interests, but it does suggest that it would be a much better option than continuing to cede leverage to Iran or look the other way on Iranian malfeasance in the region and in the world.


The Color Run, the largest 5k event series in the world, will bring its 2017 tour theme, The Color Run Dream Tour, Presented by Lays, to Downtown Las Vegas on Saturday, Feb. 25, kicking off at 8:00 a.m.

The Color Run Dream Tour will create a world where anything is possible, unicorns are real and foam clouds make everything better. The 2017 theme will make The Color Runners dreams a lot more colorful with unforgettable music, color throws and an all new Foam Zone and Dream Wall. The Las Vegas run benefits Three Square Food Bank, Nevadas food bank that provides wholesome food to the hungry in the community.

We want The Color Run to bring happiness and health to peoples lives, and even be the motivator that kicks off The Color Runners healthy lifestyles. We are excited to come to Las Vegas and give The Color Runners the opportunity to step into a dream with us and enjoy a 5k that inspires people to get out and be active with their friends and families, all while having a blast! said Louis Wills, The Color Runs event director. Our participants will experience an all new Foam Zone and Dream Wall, fresh photo opps, giant unicorns, tons of color and even more music across the whole course on our Dream Tour.

For the first time ever The Color Runners are transported through a whimsical fog Dream Tunnel as they take their first steps towards making dreams a reality. As participants enter the magical course, they experience the classic The Color Zones and the brand new Foam Zone, where theyre surrounded by dreamy colored foam or clouds as they run through the most colorful dream of all. The Dream Tour is filled with even more vibrant music across the whole course, radiant new colors, giant unicorns and the Dream Wall  a new addition to the course where runners spray paint their dreams on the wall to be seen by all. After crossing the Finish Line, The Color Runners enjoy the Finish Festival, where they party with the Runicorn, dance, find unique photo opportunities and join in on massive color throws every couple of minutes.

Each The Color Runner receives a custom race kit, including a limited-edition Dream Tour race shirt, a Unicorn Finishers Medal, embroidered headband, fun temporary tattoos and a color-in runners bib. An option to upgrade race kits to receive additional gear is also available with the deluxe registration package. Participants can color it up with more accessories, clothing and fun dream inspired items at The Color Run store.

Event: The Color Run Dream Tour, Presented by Lays in Las Vegas Date: Saturday, Feb. 25 Time: 8:00 a.m. Location: Downtown Las Vegas

945 Fremont Street

Las Vegas, NV 89101 Tickets: Team | $24.99

Individual | $29.99

The Color Run announces a new partnership with Lays, who will be the 2017 presenting sponsor for the 5k paint races in North America. Lays is delighted to add even more vibrancy to The Color Run through flavorful and fun experiences that will uplift participants throughout the day, including experiential activation and free product samples. To learn more about Lays, you can visit www.facebook.com/lays.


HEXX Kitchen + Bar at Paris Las Vegas will offer a hand-selected dessert trio throughout the month of February, to celebrate National Chocolate Lovers Month (Pictured: Aztec Cake  Photo credit: Chris Wessling).

Created by Executive Chef Matthew Piekarski, the dessert trio includes HEXXs signature brownie, Aztec chocolate cake and chocolate cheesecake. The signature brownie, made with HEXXs housemade, single-origin Ecuadorian chocolate, is topped with caramel and a hazelnut crumble. The Aztec cake features crumbled chocolate cake mixed with spiced ganache and topped with cinnamon icing. The third dessert in the trio is chocolate cheesecake made from HEXXs signature Venezuelan milk chocolate and served over an Oreo cookie crust.


Las Vegas original sushi burrito concept, Jaburritos, once again raises the bar by debuting the first restaurant of its kind on the world-famous Strip at The LINQ Promenade on Tuesday, Jan. 31. The first 100 guests will receive a complimentary chefs speciality burrito of their choosing.

Las Vegas has become such a food-driven city, and Jaburritos is excited to be a part of this culinary movement, said owner Ken Aoki. Opening the first sushi burrito restaurant on the Strip is an honor, and we hope visitors from around the world will enjoy our creations as much as we enjoy making them.

Jaburritos serves made-to-order sushi burritos stuffed with savory Japanese and Mexican inspired ingredients and flavors. After opening in October 2015, Jaburritos developed a cult following with locals and is now excited to offer sushi burritos to the 42 million visitors that travel to Las Vegas each year.
There's nothing like conversing with friends over a glass of wine and meeting other lovers of wine, but how about meeting the founder of the #winelover community that gathers all those passionate about wine from around the world? This interview is with Luiz Alberto, a local winelover to the Boston area, whom is a wine educator and communicator that has created an amazing community of winelovers.

I believe you're Italian by blood. What part of Italy does your family originate from?

My fathers side of the family comes from the Veneto and my mothers side from Lombardy.



What originally got you into wine?



Well, this question has 2 answers: 1) I got into liking to drink wine as a child. The entire family would get together on Sundays for lunch and wine was a big part of it. The adults would drink wine and we (the kids) would drink what we thought was wine, but that actually was a mixture of water (a lot of it!), sugar, and a tiny little bit of wine.

2) I got into liking to learn about wine when I moved to the US back in 1996. After going to a couple of wine stores and finding out how many options were available, I decided that I needed to learn about it. And then my life changed! :)



Being founder of the #winelover community, what influenced you to start this group? How large is it now?



Before I answer your question, let me tell you what #winelover" is. #winelover is a strong, connected, and dynamic community that expresses itself through the use of social media. The community exists to promote cooperation and enjoyment among people who love wine. Periodic hangouts throughout the world are organized for the community to have the opportunity to get together in real life. Its been a little over 4 years since I started it and this statement makes it very clear to me why we needed such a community. We needed to get together to share wine! Anyway, at first I thought it was going to be only me and my 7 friends but it become a huge thing and today we have over 21,000 members on our group and its growing everyday.



I know you're currently enrolled in the prestigious Masters of Wine program. Where do you currently stand with the program?



Ive been in the Masters of Wine program since 2009. I sat the exam for the first time last year in June and I didnt pass. The examinations are taking place again now but Im not trying this year. Basically my status is on hold at this point, but I have to make a decision in September if I will go back to the program or not. Too many things on my plate at the moment and studying for the MW program may put my life out of balance. Lets see



Tell me about the Italian Wine Ambassador program and how that has benefited your career in wine?



"330 DOCs, 73 DOCGs and over 541 native grape varieties (Source: DAgata I. Native Wine Grapes of Italy, University of California Press, Berkeley, 2014). Yes, you read it right and this (DAgatas book) was the syllabus for our course to become Italian Wine Ambassadors. I studied really hard and I was "top 5" of a class of 50 very prepared students. Quite an honor, but hard to measure how it has impacted my wine career. I know it has benefited me (I know I learned a lot!), but people dont really tell me why Im invited to be a speaker or to attend an important seminar.



When it comes to the world of wines where do Italian wines rank for you?



This question is very hard to answer as I have many passions in the world of wine. However, if you count the number of visits to a country for wine reasons as the criteria to determine the ranking, then certainly Italy comes as number 1. I have been to Italy dozens of times and I visited all their wine regions with the exception of one: Sardinia. But this, hopefully, will be fixed soon!



It may be hard to do, but what are some of your favorite Italian grapes?



A question that begs for an impossible answer! It would be easy to go with the usual suspects and say that I love Sangiovese and Nebbiolo (which I do!) but I would be unfair to so many others that I dont think I should even try Do you remember how I started this interview? Yes 541 native grape varieties!!



What regions/areas do you feel produce some of the best values for Italian wines?



Value? Heres one of its definitions: "The extent to which a good or service is perceived by its customer to meet his or her needs or wants, measured by customer's willingness to pay for it. It commonly depends more on the customer's perception of the worth of the product than on its intrinsic value. What does it mean? It means that a bottle of Brunello di Montalcino at $50.00 can be a great value to a consumer that praises that wine, while a bottle of Donnie (a DOC wine from Calabria made from Gaglioppo with some blending of Greco nero and Mantonico nero) that costs $5.00 seems not to be such a good deal because you never heard of it, right? In other words, all Italian wine regions have amazing values. You just need to trust your own palate and be adventurous.



What role and influence do you feel social media and wine bloggers have on the wine industry?



I believe that wine and social media are a great pairing. As much as the traditional wine media (e.g. Wine Spectator) is still influential to consumers, more and more people base their buying decisions on social media and wine bloggers today. The result of this change of the guard is that the role of some of the most influential bloggers is forcing brands to become very creative to build interaction with their consumers and, at the end of the day, generate sales. But its definitely not only about famous names with big audiences. Social media has enabled people to make their wine choices based on what their friends liked (or didnt like) and that they shared via Tweeter, Facebook, or Instagram. And this influence will only grow in years to come. The future is bright.



*Pictures were provided by Luiz Alberto . This article was originally published for my column, Uncorked Italy, in the former Bostoniano magazine.




Vietnam has entered 2017 - a year significant to the implementation of the Socio-economic Development Plan 2016 - 2020, and also the 31st year of Vietnams Doi moi. Do you believe that Vietnam will soon emerge from its difficulties to create greater success stories for the future?

I pin my great hopes on the countrys brighter economic development. After 30 years of reforms and development, Vietnam has reaped impressive economic growth achievements, ensuring its stability and equality. From one of the poorest nations in the world, Vietnam has become a lower middle-income country, with social achievements comparable to those of nations with much higher incomes.

Such a success has strengthened our confidence in the countrys brighter future. The achievements we have harvested after 30 years of Doi moi mean that we have to make other success stories happen faster, within a shorter period of time.

I would like to stress that such attainments might still fail to meet the expectations of the government and the public. It is because the economy has and will face numerous difficulties and challenges in the future.

Vietnam is, for example, lagging behind more advanced nations, because its economic scale remains small. Furthermore, the country is also facing a challenge of falling into a middle-income trap, coupled with challenges in climate change and environmental pollution.

Though Vietnams international integration gives the country a wealth of opportunities, it also brings challenges, especially when the countrys competitiveness remains limited. The economy still depends on the worlds economic developments. Also, the worlds and the regions complicated security situation has negative impacts on Vietnams economy.

At present, the worlds economic growth is slowing down, while Vietnams economy relies on the global prices, exports and imports, and foreign direct investment (FDI). Thats why the government must conduct necessary economic reforms before the economy can make breakthroughs in the future.

You just mentioned the word breakthrough. What is needed to make these breakthroughs?

As I have said above, Vietnam is facing the risk of falling into a middle-income trap. When the economys growth does not rely on investment capital and the exploitation of natural resources, we will have no other choice but to improve the contribution of human resources. This means we have to increase labour productivity and improve the contribution of high technology to growth.

It is not easy to overcome the middle-income trap, it may even take us a decade to do so. But we cannot do it at all if we fail to make a strong effort now.

To achieve sustainable growth and overcome the middle-income trap, we also have to solve a series of issues related to market institutions, development impetus, and investment sources. This new direction must accompany better policies, especially the fiscal policy.

When we solve these issues in the short term, we must ensure the countrys development orientation in the long term in our policies. We must keep the spirit of Doi moi, while persistently adhering to major policies about economic restructuring, renewal of the growth model, increase in labour productivity, and improvement of the economys competitiveness, effectiveness, and quality.

Vietnams government will weather all difficulties, and make great efforts to drive the economy forward. Thats why the government is trying to build itself into a more enabling, transparent, and responsive government, whose function will gradually shift from management to facilitation. The government considers enterprises as the key driving force for the economy in the time to come.

But how will such a driving force be created?

Objectively, despite numerous challenges ahead, Vietnams economy still has advantages for further development. If the advantages and potential are well tapped and enhanced, Vietnams aspiration to become a more affluent, innovative, fair, and democratic nation will come true by 2035. The advantages it can leverage include its geo-economics, geo-politics, international integration, increasingly-improved business climate, young population, natural resources, and the development of the middle-class. These advantages are great, and available for the countrys further development.

However, challenges remain. For example, despite the working-age population, if employment fails to be generated sufficiently, social disorder and social evils can emerge. In addition, without proper management and usage, natural resources can be rampantly exploited, leading to over-exhaustion and the destruction of the environment.

The Party and the governments clear-sighted vision, and the peoples unanimous push for a common goal, will be supported by the confidence of international friends and enterprises to lay a firm groundwork for Vietnam to translate its aspirations into reality.

Our responsibility for national development is heavy. The countrys development path is quite clear, and it is high time for us to run as quickly as possible to reach the finish line.

To this end, we should not only look back at what we have done successfully, but we also need to keep an eye on how the world is developing. Otherwise, we could lag behind other nations, and it would take a very long time for us to develop in the way we want to.

Though some people criticise a reliance on FDI, this type of capital has greatly contributed to Vietnams economy. What should be done to lure more FDI?

Vietnam has officially been conducting its international integration for more than two decades, with the first arena being the ASEAN community. Thus far, the community remains Vietnams most important integration - one which is increasingly expanding economically. However, Vietnam remains a mid-rung group in the region, in terms of opportunities and attractiveness to investors.

Other more developed nations within ASEAN include Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand, which have attracted greater volumes of FDI, but where opportunities are not as abundant any longer. The regions mid-rung group includes the Philippines, Brunei, and Vietnam, which are quickly developing, and offer many opportunities for investment and business. But more importantly, countries like Vietnam should make thorough preparations for receiving large-scale strategic investment projects.

We should also bear in mind that we currently face a challenge in narrowing the development gap between Vietnam and more advanced regional nations. For example, it may take about 16 years for Vietnam to develop to the point that Thailand is at now.

To this end, Vietnam is now pursuing a strategy on rapid and sustainable development, while making efforts to become a more attractive investment destination. Vietnam cannot change its geographical location, but it can change the decision of investors and lure them into the country. We are determined to do that.

In recent years, Vietnam has deeply integrated into the global economy. With what the country has done successfully in the integration, and with new-generation free trade agreements that Vietnam has and will ink, investment and business activities in Vietnam are almost the same as those in other parts of the world. But more importantly, foreign investors face fewer impediments when doing business in Vietnam.

Vietnam also has many advantages which complement opportunities resulting from international integration. Vietnam is very stable in security and politics, without any racial disputes or terrorism. The countrys legal system is increasingly improving and can meet standards of international integration.

Vietnams government has always placed a top priority on macro-economic stability. Many reforms are being conducted in the country. With these favourable factors, Vietnam can become an ideal destination for enterprises and investors.

I would like to stress that the door to success has opened now, with opportunities taking shape. The development path has become quite clear, as long as the appropriate conditions are in place. Nothing can prevent us from co-operating with foreign investors, and this will lead Vietnam to greater prosperity.
The government considered 2016 a year for inspiring innovations. What innovations has the diplomatic sector made to lure foreign direct investment and expand external trade? What will it do in 2017?

In Vietnam, innovative diplomacy means that we continue to pursue a foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, and diversification and multi-lateralisation of external relations. Along those lines, Vietnam is a friend and reliable partner of all nations for peace and development.

Our innovations lie in being flexible with these principles, to most effectively devise external activities in line with our national interests.

These activities will help us attract more external participation, such as in foreign direct investment (FDI). For example, we are currently concentrating on attracting environmentally friendly and high-tech FDI.

When talking with foreign investors, we try to direct their investments to innovative, environmentally friendly projects. This is not only a tough job, but also a necessary one.

To this end, we have to study and understand investors needs, and what kinds of FDI Vietnam needs.

Previously the government attracted FDI into labour-intensive sectors and those that use a lot of electricity and natural resources. Now the focus is changing, to lure FDI into high-tech sectors. The goal will be to learn from the technology use of foreign firms, which can co-operate with local firms in order to build higher value chains together. Vietnam has succeeded in attracting a large volume of FDI overall, but FDI interest in supporting industries remains limited.

Another way that innovative diplomacy can help is in connecting global startup trends with those of Vietnam. Our representative diplomatic agencies overseas have to help the government find new sources of FDI in the service of national socio-economic development.

In November 2017, Vietnam will host the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation (APEC) Summit in the central city of Danang. From Vietnams perspective, what are the major priorities of the event?

The coming APEC will be accompanied by big expectations from the international community. The hosting of APEC 2017 is Vietnams biggest external event of the year, and the hope is for Vietnam to expand its external relations.

Vietnam has proposed a theme for the year Creating a new driving force for a common future based on APECs common need for new momentum to promote integration and connectivity in the region.

Vietnam has advanced four key priorities: generating inclusive, innovative, and sustainable growth; improving economic connectivity; enhancing the competitiveness of small- and medium-sized enterprises; and ensuring national food security and adaptation to climate change.

These priorities have been welcomed by APEC member economies. They reflect both the members needs and Vietnams own ideals.

Vietnam expects to host tens of thousands of delegates at 200 activities across the country. This will result in great opportunities for locals to attract visitors, and advertise their products to APEC partners and world-leading businesses.

The ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) has been operational for one year since it was officially established on December 31, 2015. What are Vietnams biggest contributions to the community so far?

In 2016, Vietnam accomplished almost all its tasks for the community, and actively joined hands with other regional nations in creating a single market and a common production base via the removal of tariffs.

Currently we are planning what needs to be done for the future of the community, in order to implement the master plan to build the AEC Blueprint 2025.

ASEAN is a market of more than 600 million people, with surging demands for production and consumption. Under the regional commitment, many nations have already reduced all of their import tariffs to 0 per cent. This has brought many opportunities for Vietnamese goods.

Meanwhile, Vietnam will have to reduce almost all of their import tariffs to 0 per cent by 2018 for goods imported from AEC member nations.

But, there are challenges for Vietnam in regional integration. Vietnamese people and enterprises awareness about AEC remains limited. And other countries businesses have been capitalising on the opportunities that Vietnam is leaving on the table.

For example, in the past year made-in-Thailand goods have been flooding Vietnam, and investors have been flocking here and purchasing firms. Meanwhile, Vietnamese goods are finding it difficult to establish footholds in ASEAN trade.

Since the AEC was established, Vietnam has continuously suffered from trade deficits with ASEAN.

According to the General Statistics Office, in 2016, Vietnams export turnover from other ASEAN markets hit $17.4 billion, down 4.8 per cent year-on-year. Vietnam also spent $23.7 billion importing goods from these markets  down 0.3 per cent against 2015.

In total, Vietnam was hit by a $6.3 billion trade deficit with the ASEAN markets, higher than the $5.5 billion deficit in 2015.

What did diplomacy accomplish for socio-economic development in 2016?

Diplomatic activities built on those of previous years. 2016 saw Vietnam basically conclude construction of a network of strategic partnerships and comprehensive partnerships with many of the most important nations in the world. Vietnam has signed strategic partnership deals with five permanent member nations on the UN Security Council, and with almost all nations that play an important role in international life.

In 2016, bilaterally, Vietnam exchanged visits of top leaders with its strategic partners, such as Russia, China, the US, France, the UK, Japan, South Korea, and India. The visits reflect Vietnams ever-growing relations with these nations.

Multilaterally, Vietnam also deployed various external activities, with top leaders partaking in many significant meetings in the region and in the world.

But despite such achievements, we have faced some challenges. For example, during the visits, co-operation agreements are often inked in many sectors. But to some extent, the implementation of the deals in Vietnam remains limited, even though the agreements are aimed at creating good conditions for the people, ministries, localities, and enterprises of Vietnam. We have to improve our culture of enforcement.

The government has participated in many free trade agreements, and will join more in the future. But the way to make local people and enterprises fully understand the advantages and disadvantages brought about by the agreements remains problematic. This is the responsibility of ministries and localities.
In Thailand, the Vietnamese Embassy in Bangkok organised a talk on President Ho Chi Minhs thoughts, morals and lifestyle and a New Year party for Vietnamese living and working in the capital city.



The Lunar New Year festival has become more significant for Vietnamese expatriates in Thailand when a Vietnamese language school was inaugurated in Khanh An Pagoda, the northeastern city of Udon Thani on January 24.



The school will offer Vietnamese language classes for Vietnamese in Udon Thani and the whole northeastern region of Thailand.



In Mongolia, on January 25, the Vietnamese Embassy organised a Tet celebration for Vietnamese living in the country. At the ceremony, Ambassador Phan Dang Duong wished the Vietnamese community a happy new year. Hailing the developing relationship between Vietnam and Mongolia, the diplomat expressed hope that overseas Vietnamese will continue serving as a bridge for further promoting the bilateral ties.



On January 26, a similar event took place in Rome, the capital city of Italy, offering a chance for Vietnamese people here to celebrate the Lunar New Year.-VNA



During an event gathering Vietnamese nationals in Berlin, Vietnamese Ambassador to Germany Doan Xuan Hung hailed the Vietnamese community in Germany for their contributions to the common achievements of the nation and multi-faceted ties between Vietnam and Germany.



On the occasion, the Vietnamese embassy in Germany decided to present certificates of merit to 15 units and 12 individuals in honour of their support to disaster-stricken victims in the homeland.



Vietnamese nationals in Germany currently count nearly 125,000 with more than 100 associations. Last year, they raised in excess of 300,000 EUR in support of the needy at home.



On January 25, Vietnamese Ambassador to Laos Nguyen Ba Hung visited and conveyed New Year wishes to families of war heroes living in Laos.



The same day, a working delegation from the Vietnamese embassy in Algeria arrived in Hassi Messaoud, 600km to the south of Algiers capital city, to extend New Year wishes to the staff of the Bir Seba joint venture of the Vietnam National Oil and Gas Group, Algerias state energy producer Sonatrach Group and Thailands PTT Exploration and Production Public Company Limited.



In August 2015, the venture welcomed the first flow of oil in Bir Seba field.



It has so far drilled 16 oil wells, 13 of them are being put into operation with a daily capacity of 20,000 barrels.



By 2020, it strives to raise the total output to 40,000 barrels per day.
After 30 years of reform, our country has overcome social and economic crisis and the state of underdevelopment. - Tran Dai Quang State President

After 30 years of reform, our country has overcome social and economic crisis and the state of underdevelopment. We have become a developing middle-income country engaging in the process of accelerating industrialisation, modernisation, and international integration.

Yet we are also faced with many challenges and difficulties: a developing yet unstable economy, mounting public debt, and gradually diminishing bad debts that still remain at a high level. We must also make adjustments to our unbalanced human resource structure, low workforce quality, and unstandardised infrastructure  all of these continue to stand in the way of development.

In this situation, we have continued to uphold the spirit of patriotism and make use of all resources and the creativity of the people, while strengthening comprehensive reform so as to speed up national development in a sustainable way.

(Excerpt from the speech titled Solidarity, joining efforts for actions and conducting sustainable development together by State President Tran Dai Quang at the 38th Singapore Lecture, on August 30, 2016)

illustration photo

Vietnam needs to develop at a higher level, and move up to a higher level in the global value chain. - Nguyen Xuan Phuc Prime Minister

The government is drastically restructuring the economy and renewing the growth model. It cannot continue its old way of thinking and acting any longer. The country cannot develop based on the exploitation of natural resources and cheap labour.

Vietnam needs to develop at a higher level, and move up to a higher level in the global value chain. Such development will be largely based on innovation and renovation, and on advanced technology and highly skilled labour. To this end, Vietnamese enterprises have to play a pivotal role, and take advantage of opportunities resulting from international integration, globalisation, and the fourth industrial revolution.

Today, any nation that has many enterprises joining the global value chain will ready itself for global economic integration.

In order to participate in the global value chain, it is necessary for enterprises to legally and professionally conduct production and business. They also need to catch up with regional and international standards. This will require entrepreneurs to be active, innovative, knowledgeable, and have a good political stance.

(Excerpt from the speech by Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc at the launching ceremony of the emulation movement Vietnamese enterprises towards integration and development, on October 11, 2016, marking Vietnamese Entrepreneur Day  October 13)

Such a difficult situation requires us to have strong determination, with drastic solutions.

- Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan Chairwoman of the National Assembly

Our country is facing many difficulties and challenges. Domestically, prolonged drought in the south-central and Central Highlands provinces, drought and salinity intrusion in the Mekong Delta, and the environmental incident and flooding in some central provinces have all heavily affected agricultural production and peoples lives.

The worlds economic recovery remains slow, and contains unpredictable risks. The price of crude oil has reduced to a level far lower than the governments expectation, affecting the state budget revenue and macro balances. Such a difficult situation requires us to have strong determination, with drastic solutions for economic restructuring, renewal of the growth model, control of public debts, and measures for dealing with bad debts. The resolutions are also aimed at improving the investment and business climate.

All this is aimed at stabilising the macro-economy, maintaining proper growth, ensuring social security and order, improving peoples lives, holding onto political stability, and strengthening national defence and security, with a view towards laying the groundwork for upcoming years.

(Excerpt from the opening speech by National Assembly Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan at the opening ceremony of the 14th National Assembly, on October 19, 2016)

The success of the congress has created new momentum... for national renovation, construction, and protection. - Nguyen Phu Trong Party General Secretary

2016 was the first year of implementation of the Resolution of the 12th National Party Congress. Besides the opportunities and advantages this has given us, there were also many difficulties and challenges. The success of the congress has created new momentum and impetus for national renovation, construction, and protection.

After the congress, the Central Party Committee conducted a successful election of the 14th National Assembly and peoples councils at all levels for the 2016-2021 period, solidified the leading bodies of the Party and the state, and developed and actively implemented the Socio-Economic Development Plan for 2016 and that for the 2016-2020 period.

Special importance must be given to controlling public debt, tackling bad debts, and restructuring the state budget. We must also boost the restructuring of public investment, state-owned enterprises, state-funded units, and the commercial banking system. In addition to these foundational measures, we must also improve the countrys investment and business environment in order to mobilise and use resources more effectively, and ensure the major balances of the economy.

(Excerpt from the opening speech by Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong at the 4th Conference of the 12th Party Central Committee, on October 9, 2016)
PHOENIX -- A federal magistrate is chiding the Border Patrol for trying to hide certain information from the public about its sometimes controversial checkpoints.

In a 55-page recommendation, Bernado Velasco said there is no valid reason for the Department of Homeland Security to refuse to provide records about the location of its checkpoints. The American Civil Liberties Union wants that as part of a broader look into the practices of the Border Patrol in stopping vehicles.

Velasco also rebuffed the contention by Homeland Security that requiring it to divulge information on the nationality and skin complexion of those who are stopped at either fixed checkpoints or roving patrols would be "an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy.''

And he scoffed at a bid by the agency to hide information about how accurate the dogs their agent use are in sniffing out people and drugs being smuggled.

"As long as the government asserts that its canines are reliable, it should not be able to avoid producing records about their reliability,'' Velasco wrote.

The recommendation comes in a case the ACLU filed in 2014 on behalf of Derek and Jane Bambauer, professors at the James E. Rogers College of Law at the University of Arizona after the plaintiffs said that Homeland Security has not fully responded to its requests for records under the federal Freedom of Information Act.

"The incidence of civil rights violations associated with Border Patrol's interior enforcement operations, which include interior checkpoints and 'roving patrol' stops, is a matter of pressing public concern,'' the ACLU wrote in filing the suit. It contends that the budget for U.S. Customs and Border Patrol more than doubled between 2006 and 2014, with a nearly commensurate increase in agents.

"As the agency has expanded, reports of Border Patrol abuses in the Arizona-Sonora region and throughout the nation have increased,'' the lawsuit states. "Plaintiffs seek the requested records in order to shed light on Border Patrol's extensive but largely opaque interior enforcement operations.''

Those checkpoints have been a continued source of contention between the agency and residents of Arivaca, who say agency operations interfere with their lives.

After the lawsuit was filed, the case was put on hold. Attorneys for the government said during that time the agency produced more than 13,000 pages of information.

Based on some of what it got, the ACLU in 2015 issued a report saying that abuse of travelers at Southern Arizona checkpoints was at "epidemic levels.''

Homeland Security lawyers now want the FOIA lawsuit dismissed, contending they have provided everything they need to disclose.

The ACLU responded that the search was inadequate. So a federal judge hearing the case tasked Velasco with reviewing the claims and what had been produced and coming up with a recommendation.

One sought the maximum number of checkpoints, both permanent and tactical, the Border Patrol operated since 1976.

What the agency produced was checkpoint apprehension data for the Tucson and Yuma sectors -- essentially the entire border region -- but with the exact locations removed. And there was nothing about the 18 other border sectors.

Government attorneys argued that federal law allows them to withhold techniques and procedures for law enforcement investigation or prosecutions or guidelines that "could reasonably be expected to risk circumvention of the law.''

Velasco sniffed at those contentions.

He pointed out that the U.S. Supreme Court, in upholding the constitutionality of checkpoints, has relied in part on their visibility to lessen "the fear and surprise engendered in law-abiding motorists'' concerns with the intrusiveness of the stop. Anyway, Velasco said, it's not like the location is a big secret to anyone, even smugglers.

"In this day and age, with the use of cell phones, and other electronic means, and even drones, the location of a checkpoint can hardly be kept secret,'' he wrote. "Even Border Patrol's own website announces the location of at least one checkpoint and nothing prohibits media or others from reporting locations as well.''

Velasco also noted that the ACLU wanted access to certain documents about some of the interactions between Border Patrol agents and those they stop and question, including citizenship, nationality and complexion of people who are taken into custody. He said the stated goal is to "help the public understand whether Latino citizens and legal residents are disproportionately burdened by Border Patrol roving patrol and checkpoint operations.''

The government rejected the request, citing privacy concerns. But Velasco said that's not what the ACLU is requesting.

"The government has not shown how release of citizenship, nationality and complexion issues without use of names, addresses, birth dates, gender, social security numbers, or other combination of information that would make the subject unique or vulnerable to identification, could logically or plausibly be reasonably expected to constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy,'' he wrote.

In its 2015 report, the ACLU said the records it already had showed "recurring examples of Border Patrol agents detaining, searching and terrorizing individuals and entire families at interior checkpoints and in 'roving patrol' vehicle stops far into the interior of the country.''

Among the findings were:

- Threatening motorists with assault rifles, electroshock weapons and knives;

- Destroying and confiscating personal property;

- Dozens of false alerts by Border Patrol drug dogs resulting in searches and detentions of innocent travelers;

- Interfering with efforts by some community members to make video recordings of Border Patrol activities.

And ACLU attorney David Lyall, in releasing the report at the time, said that the checkpoints appear to be ineffective in catching those who enter the country illegally.

He said two Tucson sector checkpoints account for 75 percent of all apprehensions with "nothing'' at others.

He specifically cited one checkpoint north of Yuma, 75 miles from the border on US 95, which he said took only one person into custody over a three-year period. But Lyall said that same checkpoint produced "multiple civil rights complaints during the same period.''

Velasco, in reviewing what the ACLU sought, said there is a good reason for the federal Freedom of Information Act, which forms the basis of the lawsuit.

"Government transparency is critical to maintaining a functional democratic polity, where the people have the information needed to check public corruption, hold government leaders accountable, and elect leaders who will carry out their preferred policies,'' he wrote. The result, he said was FOIA, which is designed "to facilitate public access to government documents by establishing a judicially enforced right to secure government information from possibly unwilling official hands.''
[January 27, 2017] 3D Semiconductor Packaging Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2014-2022: 3D Wire Bonded Dominated the Market by Contributing for More Than 43% - Research and Markets

DUBLIN, Jan 27, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Research and Markets has announced the addition of the "3D Semiconductor Packaging Market by Technology, by Material, and Industry Vertical - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2014-2022" report to their offering. 3D Semiconductor Packaging Market Report, forecasts that the global market is expected to garner $8.9 billion by 2022, registering a CAGR of 15.7% during the forecast period 2014-2022. 3D wire bonded dominated the market in 2015, by contributing for more than 43% of overall technology segment in 3D semiconductor packaging market. This was attributed by its extensive usage in flash memories, and its a traditional approach which has established itself well in the market. Furthermore, extended usage of flash memories in computers, smartphones, industrial robotics, and other consumer electronic devices propel the growth of 3D wire bonded packaging segment.



On the basis of materials used in fabricating these chips, organic substrate garnered the maximum market share and claimed more than 41% market share in 2015 as they are the basic building blocks of the chips and have very high price. This was followed by bonding wire as they are utilized in 3D wire bonded packaging design, which garnered the largest share in the technology segment. Although, with the rise of other technologies, which consume less space than wire bonded chips, require less power and have higher efficiency, the share of the bonding wires in the market will be slightly impacted during the forecast period.



Electronics industry contributed over 48% of the overall 3D semiconductor packaging market in 2015. Increase in penetration of 3D semiconductor packaged chips in devices such as smartphones, laptops, digital cameras, and others drives the growth n market as these chips are majorly used in camera and memory. However, IT & telecom is expected to grow fastest at a CAGR of 19.2% during the forecast period, owing to increased investment by developing nations to increase connectivity and rise in number of wireless devices worldwide.







Asia-Pacific dominated the market in 2015, accounting over 50% of the total market revenue, and is expected to maintain its dominance throughout the forecast period. This is accredited to the presence of various manufacturing facilities, ongoing R&D, high consumption, and production of electronic products where 3D semiconductor packaged chips are steadily utilized. Further, North America and Europe are the second and third leading regions in 3D semiconductor packaging market, and are expected to witness fast paced growth as the market is still in its developing phase.



Increase in trend of miniaturization in portable electronic industry and rise in dependency on these devices worldwide is shifting device manufacturers toward finding new methods of size reduction and overall efficiency enhancement of these devices, thus driving the growth of 3D semiconductor packaging market states Gaurav Shukla , Research Associate, Semiconductor and Electronics at AMR.





KEY FINDINGS OF THE 3D SEMICONDUCTOR PACKAGING MARKET STUDY:

3D wire bonded dominated the market in 2015 with over 43% of market share, however, 3D TSV is expected to witness the highest growth rate of 17%

In 2015, Bonding wire accounted for the second largest share in 3D semiconductor packaging technology segment although it will slowly be replaced by TSV technology in long run

Die attach materials is estimated to be one of the fastest growing segment in coming years, growing at an estimated CAGR of 17.4%, owing to being a basic building block in several 3D packaging techniques

Asia-Pacific dominated the market in 2015, countries such as China , South Korea and Japan supported the growth in the region

dominated the market in 2015, countries such as , and supported the growth in the region In North America , United States accounts for over 70% of the overall market owing to high penetration of 3D TSV technology.

, accounts for over 70% of the overall market owing to high penetration of 3D TSV technology. The key players of the global 3D semiconductor packaging market are employing novel concepts & ideas, improving manufacturing techniques, and improving the current set of products, besides enhancing their profitability to gain a competitive edge over the other market players. The key players profiled in the report include

Amkor Technology

ASE Group

Siliconware Precision Industries Co., Ltd.

Jiangsu Changjiang Electronics Technology Co. Ltd.

SUSS MicroTec AG.

International Business Machines Corporation (IBM)

Intel Corporation

Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.

STMicroelectronics

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company For more information about this report visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/z3l9q8/3d_semiconductor Media Contact: Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]



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The government sided more with enterprises in 2016, through commitments to creating a more enabling, transparent, and responsive government. What is your comment about these changes?

The 12th National Party Congress has clarified that the private economic sector is an important propellant of the economy. Thus it is necessary to improve all policies and mechanisms, and create incentives for the private sector to develop strongly in almost all fields in the economy.

This guideline is being institutionalised to meet the requirements of the public and enterprises. With a spirit of action, construction, and integrity, the government has deepened its strong determination to devote itself to serving the public and enterprises.

Such determination has contributed to enhancing the innovative and startup spirit of enterprises and people nationwide.

In 2016, Vietnam witnessed a record number of over 110,000 newly-established enterprises, up 16.2 per cent in registered capital year-on-year. The average registered capital of each newly-established enterprise was VND8.1 billion (nearly $368,200), up 27.5 per cent year-on-year. The government has set a target of seeing about one million enterprises in healthy operation by 2020.

Right from the beginning of its term in office, the government enacted Resolution 3/2016/NQ-CP on supporting the development of enterprises. The prime minister and the government as a whole have ordered the review of all documents and policies related to business and investment.

The government has also made great efforts in devising policies for special economic-administrative areas, administrative reform, and construction of an e-government. All these are aimed at the even buildup of policies in favour of investment and business activities, enhancing the economys competitiveness, and developing enterprises.

However, much remains to be done. Ministries and agencies will have to amend and supplement new guiding documents so that enterprises production and business activities can be performed better.

Supporting Vietnams youth through enabling measures for startups is a high priority for Deputy Prime Minister Hue

Six months ago, at a meeting with exemplary startup entrepreneurs for 2016, you said that the government would create policies to support the countrys startup ecosystem. Could you elaborate on this?

The prime minister has already adopted a scheme on supporting the development of the national startup ecosystem and innovation until 2025. He is now ordering the acceleration of institutional reforms, which will further facilitate startup and innovation activities. Focus will be centred on the protection of asset ownership rights, intellectual property rights, and on the enactment of incentive policies about investment, credit, tax, production sites, infrastructure, and human resources.

We have a favourable cultural and social environment. We always treasure talented people  including the many scientists who have brought glory to the country. Another advantage is in the countrys golden population structure, with a surge in the middle-class, and a dynamic younger generation who is very quick in learning and developing new technology.

This startup spirit does not only mean the generation of employment for fresh graduates as in the past. It has become the national spirit which imbues all enterprises. We have to learn how to accept failure and risk, because a startup makes for adventurous investments.

According to plan, the government will build up its national startup portal and startup supporting centre network nationwide. It will also boost the implementation of communications and training programmes in order to raise awareness in startups over the whole of society.

The government will also devise legal mechanisms for financial policies and credit access for adventurous investment funds. There will be favourable policies about tax  including in personal income tax, and about using brainpower as a kind of asset. Also the role of commercial banks as facilitators for startup activities will be strengthened.

What is your comment on Vietnams startup circle? How have local firms prepared to grab opportunities arising from the fourth industrial wave?

During a cabinet meeting in November 2016, the government assigned the Ministry of Planning and Investment to team up with other ministries and agencies to design a scheme on mobilising resources to take advantage of the fourth industrial revolution. This scheme will have to be submitted to the prime minister by February 2017.

For Vietnams existing young firms, startups are not only an economic issue, but also an experience and an opportunity for them to sharpen their skills, improve their knowledge, and also show off their own value. We should not consider an unsuccessful startup a failure. All will face challenges. But, as the Vietnamese saying goes, No pain, no gain.

I do believe that with their intelligence and skills, young people will be able to quickly grab advantages and opportunities brought about by the fourth industrial revolution, in order to materialise all of their business ideas, and then create assorted products and services which can be consumed both at home and abroad.

With the new year coming up, what is your message to the Vietnamese business community and startup circle?

All industrial revolutions have been closely linked with new generations of entrepreneurs and enterprises.

Around the world, there are many examples of outstanding startup cases, with very young billionaires such as Bill Gates of Microsoft and Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook. They have made positive impacts on the worlds socio-economic development. In order to reap success, they have to be enterprising people with great passion and ambition for work, and the determination to achieve all they dream of.

Vietnamese people are famous for their intelligence and creativity. Vietnamese students are high achievers in international competitions, and in their studies and research overseas.

The country is entering a new development stage, with deeper international integration featuring rapid scientific and technological development. The fourth industrial revolution is creating favourable conditions for Vietnam to learn from the scientific and technological achievements of the world. Thereby the country can gradually bridge the development gap between it and other nations.

Vietnams historical mission for further development is for us, especially the younger generation. They need to use their ambitions, creativity, and dynamism for their success.

We do believe that Vietnam can have regional and international-level startups. The prime minister wishes to see eminent startup stories created by young Vietnamese people, who can contribute to making Vietnam a hub for startups and high technology enterprises in Southeast Asia and the world.
The new Penal Code clears up grey areas in the most basic legal document the local court system has to offer

Lawyers are sometimes thought of as steadfast traditionalists wielding quill pens. This is largely false. Anyone who thinks that innovation in Vietnam is the province of tech geeks could benefit from some re-education. The law in Vietnam is a living, breathing, dynamic, possibly hydra-headed, beast. It changes, mutates and evolves as swiftly as society  and through this lens, the past year was notable in several respects.

Jail for companies?

Can a company go to jail? Until 2016, this was not a possibility in Vietnam. Indeed, it is a bit difficult anywhere in the world to put an abstraction into jail, but in many countries they can be convicted of crimes. The consequences are often more fatal than jail, as the post-Enron conviction of the Arthur Andersen accounting firm demonstrated.

The new Penal Code, which was expected to take effect on July 1, 2016 (but has been temporarily postponed), will allow commercial entities to be prosecuted for 31 offences, including 22 for violating economic management orders. Even more importantly, given the sad state of the environment, nine offences relating to violation of environmental protection regulations have also been written in.

Three major criminal sanctions may apply to a legal entity, including fines. There is temporary suspension of operation, which is the equivalent of jail, and permanent suspension of operation  equivalent to the death sentence. This should encourage shareholders to monitor the activities of those they empower more closely.

Liability for driverless cars?

But we should be fair. What happens if you are innovating away in your laboratory and release a dangerous pollutant? No big deal, you might say  the cities are so polluted that a little extra bit does no appreciable harm. Yet under the current law you could be a criminal. This hinders the risk-taking that is inherent in innovation.

When the car was developed, it was seen as more dangerous than a horse-drawn cart. When the driverless car comes to Vietnam, should you go to jail if it causes an accident?

Now, the new Penal Code provides you an exemption from criminal liability in case of risks in research, experiments, and the application of technological developments, as long as you have complied with necessary technical processes.

Startups narrow escape

And what about startups? Article 292 of the new Penal Code criminalises the act of conducting unlicensed business on computer communication networks.

This would potentially affect the entrepreneurial world, many of whose businesses provide services via the internet.

Fortunately, the government has proposed that the National Assembly remove this article after encountering widespread objections.

Courts can no longer duck new issues

Possibly even more important to the startup is this scenario. Say you enter into a repo synthetic derivative strata alliance agreement with another company, relating to a piece of tripartite visceral semiotic bleached code. The other company does not live up to its side of the bargain. Can you enforce through the courts?

Until this year, the courts would probably not take the case because the law does not cover either the agreement or the product  and so the judges, unsurprisingly, would not know what to do. But in 2016 there was a new Civil Procedures Code. The most significant change might be that the court will no longer have the right to refuse to handle a civil case due to lack of legal provisions on point. Instead it will have to base a decision on relevant practices and/or analogy of law.

Big data

Leaping forward into this brave new world, the courts, long the heartland of the fusty, ledger-driven scribe immortalised by Bartleby, are now going to accept electronic data as evidence. Whether the judge will be able to assimilate this data in stride is to ruminate on where sci-fi, law, and philosophy  and possibly comedy  intersect.

Presumed innocent

We cannot conclude this romp through innovations in criminal law without a glance at where the past meets the future. The presumption of innocence when accused of a crime dates back to the days of the Roman Empire. And in England two hundred years ago, while presiding over a case of false-oath, administration Judge Gillies said: The presumption in favour of innocence is not to be replaced by mere suspicion. I am sorry to see that the public prosecutor treats this too lightly; he seems to think that the law entertains no such presumption of innocence. I cannot listen to this. I conceive that this presumption is to be found in every code of law which has reason, and religion, and humanity, for a foundation. It is a maxim which ought to be inscribed in indelible characters in the heart of every judge and juryman.

The new Penal Procedures Code now expressly recognises the principle according to which the accused person is deemed innocent until their offence is proved pursuant to the procedures and proceedings provided in the Code, and a court passes a valid conviction.

A 10-year innovation

Civil Codes also date back to Roman times, the first well-known compilation being that of Justinian. But they need to be creatures of their times or else they fade into irrelevance. The Justinian Code had articles relating, for example, to the correction of slaves. These are no longer necessary in modern slave-free states. So the poor legislator has to stay up with the times.

The first Civil Code in post-Doi moi Vietnam was passed in 1995, about 10 years into the new era. This document was the foundation stone of Vietnamese personal and business law. After another 10-year interval, a new Civil Code was passed in 2005. And, as many changes occurred in the last 10 years, 2016 needed a new Civil Code.

These codes set the ground rules. Some rules should stay firm for aeons (if you break a contract without a fair excuse, you should compensate). Others are not so firmly anchored. One that annoyed a lot of people was that certain contracts had to meet specified formal criteria in order to be valid  they had to be notarised.

Now the failure of a contract to comply with the required form (it should have been, but was not made in writing or notarised) will not automatically invalidate it. Indeed, if a party has fulfilled at least two-thirds of their obligations under the contract, it will be deemed valid. If the circumstances relating to a contract have substantially changed, a party to a contract can request the other party to re-negotiate it or request a court to terminate or amend the contract.

And the best thing about this timely update? We have evidence that the National Assembly and government will continue innovating in 2017 and beyond.
The results have also contributed to the firm maintenance of peace and stability, and the strengthening of Vietnams relationships and co-operation with foreign countries, boosting the countrys international integration, speeding up socio-economic development, enhancing the countrys international position and prestige, and setting the stage for the successful organisation of the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit 2017.

In addition to solidifying the countrys co-operation with world superpowers, Vietnams deep relations with other ASEAN member states and international forums in 2016 continued to deepen.

Following are the key diplomatic activities of Vietnams top leaders in 2016:
US President Donald Trump signs an executive order to start the Mexico border wall project at the Department of Homeland Security facility in Washington DC, on Jan 25, 2017 (PHoto: AFP/Nicholas Kamm)

One day after the spat boiled over, with Pena Nieto cancelling a trip to Washington next week in response to Trump's insistence that his country pay for the barrier, the two leaders held an hour-long phone conversation.

Trump described the talks as "very friendly" while the two governments issued a nearly similar statement saying it was "constructive and productive."

The discussion capped a week that saw relations between the neighbouring nations plunge into the biggest diplomatic crisis in decades as Pena Nieto vowed that Mexico will never pay for the border barrier.

While Trump and Pena Nieto "recognised their clear and very public differences" about who should pay for the wall, they agreed to "resolve these differences as part of a comprehensive discussion on all aspects of the bilateral relation," the statement said.

But the Mexican government's version statement included a line missing from the White House text: "The presidents also agreed for now to no longer speak publicly about this controversial issue."

Trump and Pena Nieto spoke about the US trade deficit with Mexico, "the importance of the friendship between our nations" and the need for the neighbours to work together to curb drug and weapons trafficking, the statement said.

'BEAT US TO A PULP'

Speaking at a press conference during talks with British Prime Minister Theresa May in Washington, Trump said he had a "very good relationship" with Pena Nieto.

The US leader said he looked forward to renegotiating trade deals and other aspects of US relations with Mexico.

"As you know, Mexico with the United States has outnegotiated us and beat us to a pulp through our past leaders. They've made us look foolish," he said, noting that the US has a US$60 billion trade deficit with Mexico.

Trump wants to renegotiate the 23-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) with Mexico and Canada.

Both Trump and Mexican officials have threatened to pull out of the pact if they fail to get a good deal.

"We are going to be working on a fair relationship and a new relationship, but the United States cannot continue to lose," Trump said.

Before the phone call was made public, Trump had railed against Mexico on Twitter, saying the country "has taken advantage of the US for long enough."

He complained about "massive trade deficits" and exclaimed that "little help on the very weak border must change, NOW!"

But he did not mention the wall payment.

STIFF TARIFF

The spat over the wall has created the biggest diplomatic rift since a drug cartel tortured and killed a US undercover agent in 1985.

Trump has angered Mexicans, perplexed economists and energised his nationalist political base by vowing to build a wall along the US frontier - and then somehow to make Mexico pay for it.

Mexico's leaders have repeatedly said their country will never pay for the 2,000-mile (3,200-kilometre) border barrier that Trump says is needed to stop illegal immigrants and drug smugglers coming over.

Trump's response has been to ask the US Congress to find between US$12-15 billion for construction and to help him find a way to recoup the money with some kind of tariff on Mexican imports.

His team have floated several ideas for how to do this. On Friday, for example, senior aide Kellyanne Conway told CBS television that a five to 20 per cent tax may be imposed at the border.

On Thursday, White House spokesman Sean Spicer suggested that one option - not necessarily the favoured one - would be a border adjustment tax of the kind favoured by Republicans in the US Congress.

Visiting Washington on Thursday, Mexico's Foreign Minister Luis Videgaray scoffed at the notion, arguing that this would just pass the cost of the wall on to US consumers of Mexican goods.

Before Friday's phone call, Economy Minister Ildefonso Guajardo, who was with Videgaray in Washington this week, told the Televisa network that the two sides were "at an impasse."

But the line of communication remains open, maintaining "the possibility to find a solution," he said.
British Prime Minister Theresa May and US President Donald Trump speak during a press conference at the White House Jan 27, 2017. (Photo: AFP/Brendan Smialowski)

Britain is a strong supporter of maintaining international pressure on Moscow over its intervention in Ukraine, and Trump took a cautious line at their first joint news conference.

Trump has also come under withering attack at home from hawkish critics in Congress, worried that his stated desire to become friends with President Vladimir Putin might weaken US resolve.

But the new US leader plans to have a telephone conversation with Putin on Saturday, and his aides say he is re-considering the sanctions regime.

"We'll see what happens as far as the sanctions - very early to be talking about that," Trump said, welcoming May to the White House as the first foreign leader to visit since he was sworn in a week ago.

May took a sterner line, insisting that Putin must live up to the Minsk Agreements that would put an end to Russian military interference in Ukraine.

"We believe the sanctions should continue until we see that Minsk Agreement fully implemented, and we've been continuing to argue that inside the European Union," she said.

White House spokesman Sean Spicer had earlier announced on Twitter that Trump plans to talk to Putin, France's President Francois Hollande and Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel over the weekend.

France and Germany brokered the Minsk Agreement between Russia and Ukraine and have been pressuring both sides to live up to it.

COLD WAR

Appearing on Fox News, Trump's senior advisor Kellyanne Conway said the new commander-in-chief was indeed considering lifting sanctions on Russia. "All of that is under consideration," she said.

"If another nation that has considerable resources wishes to join together with the United States of America to try to defeat and eradicate radical Islamic terrorism, then we're listening."

In Moscow, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Putin would congratulate Trump on his inauguration.

But he refused to comment on rumors that Trump might already be gearing up to roll back the measures that have helped drive ties to their lowest point since the end of the Cold War.

"This is the first contact by phone since President Trump assumed office so it is hardly likely there will be substantive contact on all issues. Let's be patient," Peskov said.

On Thursday, in a speech to US Republican lawmakers, May had suggested Washington engage Putin but be wary of him.

Trump has sparked concerns among Washington's European allies and foreign policy hawks at home by repeatedly declaring his desire to forge closer ties with Moscow.

He won the presidency amid charges that Russia interfered in last year's election on his behalf, in part by hacking the emails of top officials in his rival Hillary Clinton's campaign.

MURDERER AND THUG

Republicans in Congress have warned against softening Washington's stance on Putin.

"He should remember that the man on the other end of the line is a murderer and a thug who seeks to undermine American national security interests at every turn," Senator John McCain said.

Of talk of lifting the sanctions, McCain said: "I hope President Trump will put an end to this speculation and reject such a reckless course. If he does not, I will work with my colleagues to codify sanctions against Russia into law."

The Trump-Putin call will be their first official contact since the Republican took office a week ago.

The pair spoke by telephone in November, shortly after Trump's election victory and, according to the Kremlin, "declared the need for active joint work to normalise" ties.

Today there are several sets of sanctions on Russia, including the Magnitsky Act, which Congress passed in 2012 to punish corrupt officials.

Such legislation would be difficult to repeal, but sanctions imposed over Russian intervention in eastern Ukraine and its annexation of Crimea could be rolled back with a stroke of Trump's pen.
Computer-aided Design Market - Drivers and Forecasts by Technavio

Technavio analysts forecast the global computer-aided design (CAD) market to grow at a CAGR of close to 7% during the forecast period, according to their latest report.

This Smart News Release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170127005528/en/

Technavio has published a new report on the global CAD market from 2017-2021. (Graphic: Business Wire)

The research study covers the present scenario and growth prospects of the global CAD market for 2017-2021. Market estimates come from the sale of CAD software licenses, services, maintenance, and revenue earned by software providers, service providers, and value-added resellers.

The global CAD market has witnessed the emergence of many new and innovative software. The development of new ideas and the launch of new products has encouraged companies to introduce changes such as the inclusion of new model templates, improved documentation, and enhanced support for mobile devices.

Request a sample report: http://www.technavio.com/request-a-sample?report=56151

Technavio's sample reports are free of charge and contain multiple sections of the report including the market size and forecast, drivers, challenges, trends, and more.

Technavio ICT analysts highlight the following three factors that are contributing to the growth of the global CAD market:

High adoption of cloud-based CAD in APAC

The availability of cloud-based services has increased in APAC. Industries are focused on reducing PLM adoption costs, which gives rise to the popularity of cloud-based PLM software. Various PLM service providers are implementing the technology on the cloud. Wipro (News - Alert) is providing cloud-based PLM services for the Siemens PLM Software, Teamcenter. Its cloud-based PLM services help electronics and semiconductor manufacturing companies deploy Teamcenter on the cloud This deployment through infrastructure as a service (IaaS) helps end-users reduce upfront costs and total cost of ownership (TCO).







The benefits of adopting cloud solutions are listed below:

Implementation of cloud solutions requires minimal investment.

Data is easily accessible from any location.

Cloud solutions are reliable and can be used for data backup in case of loss of data from the company's storage devices. They act as a disaster recovery service for SMEs.

Critical role of CAD in packaging machineries

Packaging machinery involves the packaging of products before their dispatch for storage and distribution networks. Packaging is a critical stage of marketing due to its strong impact on the purchase decisions of customers. Packaging machinery is used for labeling, coding, filling, and wrapping products. A major driver in the global packaging machinery market is the increase in the demand for smart packaging. This is mainly witnessed in the food industry, where hygiene is crucial. The growing concerns over wastage of food mainly drive the demand for smart packaging.

Ishmeet Kaur, a lead product lifecycle management research analyst at Technavio, says, "Food packaging has evolved significantly over the last few years. The method allows for preserving food for longer periods by using barrier layers and germicidal films. These factors have increased the consumption of packaged foods and the subsequent demand for packaging machinery."

Rising demand for CAD from semiconductor industry

The semiconductor industry is one of the major contributors to the overall revenue of the CAD market. The progressive reductions in the size of semiconductors and the increased scale of integration have compelled semiconductor manufacturing companies to use CAD. The software helps curtail the complexities involved in the design of semiconductor chips.

"The semiconductor industry is highly dominated by the US, Japanese, and South Korean companies. A notable incident in this industry was the fall of Japanese dominance and the rise of South Korea. This was due to the increase in R&D activities in the semiconductor industry by companies such as Samsung (News - Alert) and Intel," adds Ishmeet.

Top vendors:

Autodesk

Dassault Systemes

PTC

Siemens (News - Alert) PLM Software

Browse Related Reports:

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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 [email protected].

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170127005528/en/
What is waterboarding, and who believes it works?
The Omnipotent Owl  Why Are We Drawn to This Ancient Symbol of Wisdom?

Like a great sage, an owl sits stock-still, seeing everything, but saying nothing. When she takes action, it is swift and precise. These bold characteristics have earned the owl both respect and fear among humans; yet any great big eyes set into a fluffy body is sure to have broad
Clientless Remote Support Software Market - Drivers and Forecasts from Technavio

Technavio analysts forecast the global clientless remote support software market to grow at a CAGR of over 15% during the forecast period, according to their latest report.

This Smart News Release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170127005184/en/

Technavio has published a new report on the global clientless remote support software market from 2017-2021. (Graphic: Business Wire)

The research study covers the present scenario and growth prospects of the global clientless remote support software market for 2017-2021. This report mentions a list of global vendors that provide clientless remote support software. The vendors are identified based on the revenue and market dominance in terms of geographical presence, product portfolio, financials, and R&D.

One of the key trends observed in the market is the increasing number of M&A in the market. Since the market is highly fragmented with the presence of numerous small vendors mostly operating in the niche markets, there is high scope for M&A. As the niche market players have superior technology, the most favored way for large vendors to enter the market is through the acquisition of these niche players. In July 2016, LogMeIn merged with Citrix (News - Alert) Systems' GoTo family of products.

Request a sample report: http://www.technavio.com/request-a-sample?report=56118

Technavio's sample reports are free of charge and contain multiple sections of the report including the market size and forecast, drivers, challenges, trends, and more.

Technavio ICT analysts highlight the following three factors that are contributing to the growth of the global clientless remote support software market:

Increased adoption of mbility in clientless remote support







Enterprises have enabled remote connectivity using network and security infrastructure. Technologies, such as VPN, played a major role in enabling devices, such as laptops, and have become leading players in connectivity. Smaller devices, such as smartphones and tablets, have become more powerful than basic laptops and have better user interfaces. The built-in support for wireless connectivity, such as Wi-Fi, in these devices, has made them a preferred choice among employees. The growth of mobile devices in the clientless remote support software market has made the vendors develop applications specific to mobile OS such as Bomgar (News - Alert) InSight.

Rise of IoT devices for exchanging data over the Internet

Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of tangible and physical objects that are interconnected through technology and can communicate among themselves to collect and exchange data. It connects hardware devices, embedded software, communication services, and IT services. Smart machines can monitor and control various objects using microcontrollers via the Internet from a remote location with the help of IoT technology.

Ishmeet Kaur, a lead enterprise application research analyst at Technavio, says, "IoT has led to the increased number of connected devices ranging from lighting and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to wind turbines in the sea and weather monitoring stations in the Arctic. Optimization and solving issues related to these IoT devices will require clientless remote support software."

Need for quick fixing because of rising BYOD policies

"Since many employees are using mobile devices, the need for mobile remote support has become inevitable. Vendors, such as LogMeIn (News - Alert), provide features, such as Click2Fix, in their remote support software for mobile devices," asserts Ishmeet.

Click2Fix addresses issues related to firmware, temperature, battery optimization, and virus attacks. It is also simple to use and provides the user all the information they need at a glance. The feature also provides one-click fixes for the problems that arise from the analysis of the mobile device.

Top vendors:

Bomgar

Citrix Systems

Cisco Systems (News - Alert)

LogMeIn

TeamViewer

Browse Related Reports:

Become a Technavio Insights member and access all three of these reports for a fraction of their original cost. As a Technavio Insights member, you will have immediate access to new reports as they're published in addition to all 6,000+ existing reports covering segments like cloud computing, IT hardware, and IT security. This subscription nets you thousands in savings, while staying connected to Technavio's constant transforming research library, helping you make informed business decisions more efficiently.

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 [email protected].

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170127005184/en/
In an apparent attempt to strengthen the credibility of Bosnia's law enforcement agencies, the Office of Disciplinary Counsel in Sarajevo opened the case of Chief State Prosecutor Goran Salihovic on Friday.

Salihovic was suspended in September 2016 after facing charges of corruption and abuse of power. He is the highest-ranking law enforcement official under investigation for allegedly giving false information to the courts, obstructing the work of colleagues and having professional conflicts of interest.

The suspended prosecutor, who is also a head of the country's anti-terrorism efforts, vigorously denied the charges, describing them as political backlash for his prior investigations.

"I am not corrupt, I did not take any money," Salihovic told VOA's Bosnian Service, reiterating comments he made on first appearing before the Office of Disciplinary Counsel. "I am nobody's enemy, and neither do I belong to a political party. I worked by the book, but maybe I started some things that some people did not like to be public, and wanted it to be stopped.

'Political pressure is continuing'

"Media launched [a witch-hunt] against me encouraged by the politics of the prosecutor, [and] his political pressure is continuing against me, but also against the whole judiciary of Bosnia, as we can see now," Salihovic added. "However, I have trust in the high court and prosecutor's office, and the disciplinary commission working on my case."

Hasib Sabotic, director of the Bosnian Anti-Corruption Agency, requested a full public airing of all documentation being used to build the case against Salihovic and other judges and prosecutors across Bosnian judiciary.

Details supporting the charges were not yet fully clear and transparent.

Srdjan Blagovcanin of Transparency International BiH said cases like Salihovic's might prove critical in assessing the ethical integrity of the state prosecutor's office.

"According to our information  in the past, there were various charges against judges and other Bosnian judiciary officials that were never investigated or completed," Blagovcanin told VOA. "We in Transparency Bosnia want to know if such an institution  primarily the state prosecutor's office  is actually able to fight corruption in other social spheres, or whether the institution itself is corrupt."

30 cases per year

Judicial records indicated about 30 cases annually are brought before Bosnia's Office of Disciplinary Counsel. Procedures are ongoing against two court presidents and three prosecutors of the state prosecutor's office. In one case a judge had "forgotten" to send a convict to jail for five years until the case was obsolete.

More than two decades since the end of the bitter Balkans war, Bosnia remains plagued with political and ethnic divisions that obstruct much-needed reforms, especially in the area of rule of law and public administration, critical for country's eventual membership in the European Union.

Transparency International reported Wednesday that Bosnia and Herzegovina had dropped seven places, to No. 83 among 176 countries, on its Corruption Perceptions Index 2016 survey.

This article was produced in collaboration with VOA's Bosnian Service.
Colombia's government and Marxist FARC rebels announced a plan on Friday to substitute illegal crops and eradicate vast tracts of coca leaf, the raw material for cocaine, over the next year as part of a peace deal to end a half-century conflict.

Colombia, which according to the United Nations has more than 96,000 hectares (237,000 acres) sown with coca, manually destroyed 17,642 hectares last year and seized a record 378 tons of cocaine.

Planting of coca was up 39 percent in 2015 after the government halted aerial fumigation with the chemical glyphosate, which was a key part of its U.S.-backed counternarcotics strategy. Colombia and neighboring Peru are the world's leading producers of cocaine.

"The goal is to replace approximately 50,000 hectares of illicit crops during the first year of implementation in more than 40 municipalities in the most affected departments," the government and the rebels said in a joint statement.

The FARC, or Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, was considered one of the biggest players in Colombia's drug business.

President Juan Manuel Santos and FARC leadership agreed on the crop substitution program as part of last year's peace agreement.

Post-Conflict Commissioner Rafael Pardo said the government would invest $340 million in the substitution program, which he said would benefit 50,000 families.

Cacao and fruit trees are among crops that will be planted instead of coca, depending on soil characteristics.

Colombia's conflict, pitting leftist rebels against right-wing paramilitaries and the military, has lasted almost 53 years and taken more 220,000 lives.

The FARC initially "taxed" coca production by farmers in rural areas under its control but it went on to dominate trafficking in those same areas.

The guerrillas vowed to abandon the lucrative drug trade once a peace deal was reached but other armed groups, including paramilitary groups and other crime gangs have been looking to replace the FARC and take over its old income stream wherever possible.
Nearly 1 million people in Guatemala are struggling to feed themselves as poor rainfall has led to drought and shrunken harvests, worsening hunger among the poor, the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization said.

Linked to the El Nino weather phenomenon, this year's drought has been very hard on subsistence farmers living in Central America's dry corridor that runs through parts of Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras and Nicaragua.

"In Guatemala, 170,000 families, approximately 900,000 people, have no food reserves left. This is the third consecutive year they have been hit by drought," Diego Recalde, head of the FAO in Guatemala, told the Thomson Reuters Foundation.

"This is a slow emergency that's not visible, but we can already notice chronic child malnutrition is increasing," he said in a telephone interview from Guatemala City.

Families in mostly poor, indigenous communities in rural areas are now eating only one or two meals a day, Recalde said.

The U.N. World Food Program warned that the extended dry spell, which is expected to last until March 2016, would lead to a drastically reduced harvest as drought destroys bean and maize crops, the country's staple foods.

"Some families could lose between 50 to 100 percent of their next maize harvest due later this month," Mario Touchette, WFP's Guatemala country director, said by phone.

Fewer jobs, less food

One of the poorest countries in Central America, Guatemala already struggles to feed its population. About half of its 15 million people live in poverty, and the country has the world's fourth-highest rate of chronic malnutrition, affecting mostly children under five, the WFP said

Besides facing problems caused by drought, tens of thousands of families in Guatemala cannot afford to buy food because coffee producers are hiring fewer seasonal workers. The need for the workers is down because of an epidemic of roya, a fungus that eats away at the leaves of coffee plants, across Central America.

"Small and subsistence farmers rely on getting other work to supplement their incomes," said Ada Gaytan, disaster preparation coordinator at charity Action Against Hunger in Guatemala. "But today there are fewer shifts, and coffee pickers are getting paid less  $3 to $4 a day  half of what they got paid last year."

It means many families are forced to rely on government and U.N. food handouts.

The Guatemalan government has said it will begin distributing 4,000 metric tons of mostly maize, fortified flour and beans to 121,000 drought-hit families beginning Aug. 17, using donations from Brazil.

Drought, a recurring problem in Central America's dry corridor, is exacerbated by extreme and erratic weather brought by climate change, aid agencies say.

A key challenge is to improve farmers' access to water by finding better ways of using and harvesting rainwater and more efficient irrigation systems for small farmers.

"Over the years, a lack of investment in water infrastructure and irrigation systems, along with land tenure issues  44 percent of farmers rent their lands  exacerbates the problems caused by droughts," said WFP's Touchette.
Mastercard has launched a new digital marketplace for East African farmers to sell their crops and receive payment via their mobile telephones.

"2Kuze" (pronounced "tuh-KOO-zay") works with existing mobile money systems like mPesa to facilitate transactions between farmers, agents and banks, the financial-services corporation said.

The World Bank's Consultative Group to Assist the Poor (CGAP) estimates there are roughly 500 million farming households across the world that fall under the category of "smallholder" - made up of no more than a few hectares of land, and run primarily by family members.

In East Africa, smallholder farmers trying to get the best price for their crops are often dependent on middlemen - agents, buyers and sellers who leave them with inconsistent and unpredictable returns. That problem is exacerbated by the farmers' lack of access to financial tools, such as bank checking or savings accounts.

"What's historically been used has been these middlemen arriving at the farm gate, or setting up marketplaces in local communities, where they're doing deals there and coming back later, and paying those farmers in cash after they've been able to sell the goods. ... And that can be a gap of as much as two weeks," said John Sheldon, a senior vice president at the company in charge of innovation.

2Kuze capitalizes on the widespread use of mobile phones across Africa to conduct peer-to-peer monetary transactions, Mastercard says, and the program is intended to increase farmers' earnings by giving them access to a wider network of buyers and faster transactions.

"With technology comes great scale, and so if we can help [buyers] work with 10 times the number of farmers they've historically been able to work with ... they have the opportunity to make more money, even if the margins on any given transaction is lower."

Reaching those outside the system

For 2Kuze, Mastercard is partnering with non-profit Cafedirect Producers Foundation, which says it works with 300,000 smallholder farms around the world to promote fair-trade practices. Farmers in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda participated in the development of 2Kuze, and the pilot program is launching with 2,000 smallholder farmers in Kenya's Nandi Hills region, famous for its tea farms.

It's not yet clear how Mastercard will profit from its efforts. Sheldon said the company is still experimenting and "testing multiple potential revenue models, whether it's percentage of sale or licensing access to very, very large-scale buyers."

One indirect benefit for smallholder farmers is the creation of a financial log or history, which could prove helpful when they seek credit or loans to expand their farms.

"Each bank has their own credit model that they're utilizing, and [with] our ability to provide them with the visibility into these transactions, they can ... do some of those key credit assessments," Sheldon said. East African farmers' financial performance is not measured by a scoring system like the FICO analyses used in the United States and many other countries.

Mastercard is not the first company to offer financial services to smallholder farmers in developing countries. Matthew Saal, head of digital financial services at the International Finance Corporation, said Mastercard's system has "been both developed and deployed in East Africa, providing tailor-made solutions to meet the great local need for expanded financial access in rural areas."

IFC is a member of the World Bank group that finances and provides advice for private-sector ventures in developing countries.

"IFC is working with partners like Mastercard, and others around the world, toward the shared goal of achieving Universal Financial Access by 2020, and believes that digital platforms have a critical role to play in reaching the 2 billion adults globally that aren't part of the formal financial system," Saal said.
Women from Kosovo who joined the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria were recruited mainly by their husbands and joined for family reasons, not out of religious fervor, researchers have found.

"Of more than 4,000 foreign fighters from Western Europe who have joined violent extremist organizations in Syria and Iraq, more than 700 are women, more than 40 of whom were from Kosovo," said a report released this week by the Pristina-based Kosovar Center for Security Studies (KCSS).

However, unlike Western European women recruited into violent extremist organizations through online propaganda, the KCSS report found that Kosovar women, because of prevailing socioeconomic conditions such as high unemployment and low education levels, are more likely to be recruited by family members, especially husbands.

In Kosovo, the report said, "statistics show that women are discriminated against in almost every sphere of public life."

"When compared to men, women are underrepresented in all levels of institutions and decision-making process [and] unemployment is also higher among women," the report said. "This society-wide general discrimination is also reflected within the structures of Kosovo's Islamic Community (BIK)."

Vulnerable to radicalization

Report co-author Vese Kelmendi said these factors leave BIK women, particularly those from rural areas, unusually vulnerable to radicalization.

"In countries like England, France, Belgium, recruitment is done more through IS online propaganda, where the group urges women to get married and shows them how to do that in the so-called Islamic State," Kelmendi told reporters. "Meanwhile, in Kosovo, we have noticed that recruitment is done directly from their husbands, because women are not employed.

"At most they may have had one year of college education, and their basic knowledge regarding IS and religion comes from their husbands," she said.

But co-author Rudine Jakupi said that not all radicalized Kosovar women are victimized by others.

"Ideological reasons, socioeconomic factors and personal motives" drive some Kosovar women to radicalization, she said. "As per our interviews, some of the women said that the feeling of being discriminated [against on religious grounds], as well as their identity and isolation, influenced them on joining IS."

Convinced of their cause

Once with IS in Syria and Iraq, the women face a point of no return, the researchers said.

"Kosovar women, like some Kosovar men who joined extremists in the conflicts in Syria and Iraq, are deeply convinced that they made the right decision as Muslims or as Muslim-practicing believers," Jakupi said. "They are convinced that they will be rewarded for this decision in the next world."

Across the Western Balkans region, the number of radicalized women in Kosovo is second only to the total in Bosnia-Herzegovina, which has seen 60 women join conflicts in Syria and Iraq.

The report was produced with the help of a grant from the European branch of the New York-headquartered Open Society Initiatives, with assistance from the Think Tank Fund for Wider Europe.

Fewer fighters

The number of fighters joining extremist groups in the Middle East from Kosovo, once the highest per capita in Europe, has dwindled in the last year, according to government officials, analysts and ex-fighters.

The turnabout came after a government crackdown in Kosovo on extremist recruiting, an increased education campaign to show the ills of radical groups, and a waning appeal of IS militancy, experts said.

"Kosovo has done great work in getting local Muslim communities directly involved in efforts to educate their members against the dangers of radicalization," Sarah Bedenbaugh, a Balkan expert at the Atlantic Council, a Washington-based think tank, told VOA last year.

Kosovo is the smallest country in the Balkan region with a Muslim-majority population. The country gained its independence in 2008 after a long-fought war with Serbia.

The landlocked nation has struggled with increasing radicalization of Muslim youth that increased after the start of the Syrian civil war in 2012. Roughly 93 percent of Kosovo's 1.7 million people are from Muslim family backgrounds. Young people in Kosovo were drawn to become militants as high youth unemployment and poor education left them wanting, analysts say.

This report was produced in collaboration with VOA's Albanian service.
Indonesia has quietly released a presidential decree addressing its roughly 14,000 refugees and asylum seekers, who were previously overlooked in the country's laws. It is being hailed as a promising, if incomplete, first step for Indonesia, which is not a signatory to the United Nations 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees.

The decree fills the legal vacuum regarding refugees and asylum seekers in Indonesia, Febi Yonesta, chairman of SUAKA, the Indonesian Civil Society Network for Refugee Rights Protection, told VOA. Of course, its effects depend on how it's executed on the local level.

Yonesta said President Joko Widodo's decree, released late last month, had been in the works since 2010 under the previous president, but was stalled by the number of ministries (foreign, immigration, police, law, security, health) involved.

As it stands, the decree has entered the global fray at a time when governments like those of Australia, the United States and most of Western Europe are tightening their borders to refugees and asylum seekers.

Major gaps

The decree's language is fairly broad, outlining procedures that are already informally in place, like routing refugees to Immigration Detention Centers (IDC) and entrusting local or city governments with finding them shelter.

It does not address refugees found in international waters  significant because Indonesia is an island nation  or their right to work and education, the absence of which can create paralyzing boredom for current refugees.

The decree does not reliably protect all human rights of refugees, such as the right to work and education, said Yonesta, but on the bright side, at least it doesn't prohibit them from school or work.

He added that Indonesia has ratified various human rights instruments that regulate the right to work and education, like the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and the Convention on the Right of the Child. So Indonesia is bound by those obligations.

It's good that the decree accepts the definition of refugees in the 1951 Refugee Convention, instead of continuing to call them illegal immigrants, said Muhammad Hafiz, executive director of Indonesia's Human Rights Working Group. All relevant government agencies should co-sign this designation and recognize asylum seekers and refugees under Indonesian law.

Yonesta said Widodo likely took the measure forward as decree rather than a law for expediency, because Indonesia's legislative chambers are notoriously backlogged. Unfortunately, in order to do so, local governments were not involved in the discussion, he said, even though they carry out the brunt of refugee services.

Sparked by an acute crisis

Widodo, widely known as Jokowi, seems to have taken a particular interest in the Rohingya refugee crisis, which affects the persecuted Muslims of Myanmar's Rakhine state.

It's true that the re-emergence of the Rohingya refugee crisis in 2015 affected this decree, said Yonesta, because the stalling discussion of this topic reopened around that time.

Just three weeks before the decree was issued on December 31, Widodo met with former U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan to discuss the best way to send humanitarian aid to the Rohingya.

The decree designates responsibility mainly to the local government and the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), which maintains a presence across Indonesia. According to a 2010 regulation from the Indonesian director-general of immigration, irregular migrants can register as asylum seekers with the local office of the UNHCR and stay in Indonesia while their claims are processed.

A member of UNHCR Indonesia said they were still reviewing the decree and it was too early for an official comment.

Still, the decree should not be seen as a steppingstone toward Indonesia's ratification of the U.N. convention on refugees. It will have no bearing on the country's current position as a non-signatory of the convention, making it only responsible for repatriation and settlement, Andy Rachmianto, the Foreign Ministry's director for international security and disarmament, told The Jakarta Post.

It also designates the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) with discovering asylum seekers, particularly by conducting search-and-rescue operations on ships suspected of containing them. Such measures might make the U.N. convention beside the point.

The [U.N.] Refugee Convention is not the only source of state obligations towards refugees, Martin Jones, human rights lecturer at the University of York, told Inside Indonesia.

A domestic asylum law could be developed from alternative sources, without needing to sign the convention.

Will refugee influx increase?

Historically, Asia has not co-signed the European model of broad humanitarian aid that emerged after World War II. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), to which Indonesia belongs, for instance, prizes non-interference in the domestic matters of member states.

Indonesia's diverse refugee population includes Afghan Hazaras, Rohingya from Myanmar and Bangladesh, and Somalis. Many saw Indonesia as a brief stop on their transit to Australia, but ever since that country moved to block maritime asylum seekers in 2013, thousands of them have been stuck in limbo in Indonesia.

Unlike in neighboring Malaysia, where manual labor is accessible to migrants and refugees, many stuck in Indonesia "sacrifice freedom for food," accepting that they cannot work so they can at least get food and shelter in one of the country's 13 immigration detention centers.

But Indonesia's IDCs are full to bursting, so it remains to be seen whether the country will expand its infrastructure, as well as if the decree will increase the influx of refugees.

Yonesta thinks it will not. Indonesia is a state of transit. The decree does not affect the rate of resettlement to a third country, which is what most refugees coming to this country want.
Anger erupted on Saturday -- along with some praise from the far-right -- about U.S. President Donald Trump's ban on refugees entering the United States.

The French president vigorously urged European leaders to present a united front against populism while the German foreign minister noted that "love thy neighbor" is a key part of America's Christian traditions. Turkey's prime minister insisted that "you cannot settle this issue by building walls."

In Israel, meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu greeted Trump's plan to build a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border as a "great idea."

FRENCH PRESIDENT FRANCOIS HOLLANDE

"Europe is facing a moment of truth. The issue is populism. What we are hearing from the U.S. encourages populism and even extremism. They are saying that Europe should not take immigrants, shouldn't stay together, not believe in climate change.



"We should engage in discussions (with the U.S.) that sometimes should be very firm. And as long as there are statements from the U.S. president about Europe, when he speaks about the model of Brexit for other countries, when the U.S. president talks about climate change ... saying he's not convinced of it, we should respond to him. When he takes protectionist measures, we should respond to him. When he destabilizes the economies of other countries, not only European ones, we should respond to him. When he rejects the arrival of refugees, while Europe has done its duty, we should respond to him."

TURKISH PRIME MINISTER BINALI YILDIRIM

"You cannot settle this (refugee) issue by building walls. Nobody leaves their homes for nothing."

Turkey has admitted about 3 million Syrian refugees since the start of the war in its neighbor.

"They came here to save their lives and our doors were open. And if the same thing happened again, we would do it again."

NOBEL PEACE PRIZE WINNER MALALA YOUSAFZAI

Donald Trump should not "turn his back on the world's most defenseless children and families." Refugees and immigrants, she says "have helped build your country.

IRANIAN PRESIDENT HASSAN ROUHANI

Those seeking to create walls between nations "have forgotten that the Berlin Wall collapsed years ago."

GERMAN FOREIGN MINISTER SIGMAR GABRIEL

" 'Love thy neighbor' is part of this (American Christian) tradition, the act of helping others."

FRENCH FOREIGN MINISTER JEAN-MARC AYRAULT

"We have signed international obligations, so welcoming refugees fleeing war and oppression forms part of our duties."

THE INTERNATIONAL RESCUE COMMITTEE

The agency is calling President Donald Trump's suspension of the U.S. refugee resettlement program a "harmful and hasty" decision. IRC President David Miliband says "America must remain true to its core values. America must remain a beacon of hope."

NORWEGIAN REFUGEE COUNCIL

Trump's decision "will not make America safer, it will make America smaller and meaner."

BRITISH PRIME MINISTER THERESA MAY

"The United States is responsible for the United States' policy on refugees."

ISRAEL PRESIDENT BENJAMIN NETANYAHU

Netanyahu tweeted that Israel's wall along its border with Egypt had stemmed a swell of African migrants: "President Trump is right. I built a wall along Israel's southern border. It stopped all illegal immigration. Great success. Great idea."

FAR-RIGHT DUTCH POPULIST GEERT WILDERS

In a tweet, the Dutch anti-Islam populist Wilders, whose Party for Freedom is polling strongly ahead of the country's March 15 election, says: "No immigrants from Islamic countries."
Islamic State fighters are still finding ways to move across Iraq and Syria, bolstering the terror groups resiliency as it tries to defend key cities like Mosul and al-Bab.

Islamic States ability to maintain such mobility despite a concerted effort by coalition warplanes and forces on the ground to sever key transit routes and lines of communication, has led to renewed concerns. And perhaps none is greater than the fear that any effort to vanquish the terror group may be much more difficult without stepped-up U.S. support.

Theyve resisted us in many other places, but we think in the capital of ISIS the resistance is going to be even much, much bigger, according to Syrian Democratic Council Co-Chair Ilham Ahmed, using one of the groups many acronyms.

They still have a route to the city of al-Bab, and they still have a route to Mosul, she warned, speaking through a translator during a visit to Washington this week. Theres always movement.

Others say IS losing strength

The accounts from Ahmed and other Syrian rebel officials would seem to conflict with the assessment of some coalition officials who, at least in the case of Mosul, increasingly talk of an enemy losing its grip on a city that had been the terror groups center of operations in Iraq.

We are seeing indicators of desertions and other activities that would indicate that the structure and ... the cohesive organization of Daesh starting to, to crumble, Operation Inherent Resolves Major-General Joe Martin told Pentagon reporters Wednesday, using the terror groups Arabic acronym.

But it may not be enough.

While Iraqi security forces have mostly cleared eastern Mosul, across the Tigris River, the western part of the city remains under IS control, and coalition officials have warned repeatedly the fight to free it will be difficult.

Other officials concede it is also possible that IS has, in fact, been able to buttress its defenses.

It wouldnt be surprising, one U.S. official told VOA, speaking about western Mosul on condition of anonymity.

IS supply routes intact

And even as the ability of Islamic State fighters to maneuver on the battlefield has diminished, many of the supply routes connecting one stronghold to another remain, though massive convoys that once made regular appearances in the groups propaganda videos are a thing of the past.

The group has sought to preserve its transit lines among key bastions such as Raqqa and Mosul, a U.S. intelligence official told VOA. While this has not prevented IS from losing significant ground in Iraq, or even from losing most of Mosul, there are areas where the strategy has paid off.

Recent attacks in Palmyra and Deir Ezzor show it retains the capability to exploit ungoverned spaces and mount tough offensives, the official said.

Syrian Democratic Council officials worry those same capabilities are making the eventual battle to retake the Islamic States Syrian capital all the more difficult.

We need better military planning and better preparations and a better support from the United States, the councils Ahmed said.

Big battle for Raqqa looms

Theyre [IS leaders] sending more troops to Raqqa because they know that the battle is going to be very big, she added, warning IS fighters  most of them Syrian  have been arriving from battlefields as far away as Mosul and al-Bab to help fortify the city.

U.S. officials say much of the preparation in Raqqa has mirrored what IS did in Mosul  laying mines and traps while preparing to use underground tunnels to thwart the advance of U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces.

And just as with Mosul, there could be as many as 5,000 IS fighters in the city and the surrounding areas prepared to fight to the death, one official said.

Still, others doubt IS has the manpower to mass in such numbers. IS commanders, once thought to have more than 30,000 fighters at their disposal, now control a fighting force of less than 15,000, according to the most recent U.S. intelligence estimates.

Yet even if IS is only moving fighters in small numbers, there are those who say there is cause for concern, pointing to the groups success in retaking Palmyra from Syrian regime forces and its ability to push into Deir Ezzor.

Those signs indicate a healthy military force, said Jennifer Cafarella, a Syria expert at the Washington-based Institute for the Study of War. ISIS is demonstrating that it remains a viable military organization, that it can still command and control offensive and defensive military operations, that it is choosing when and where to fight.
Italy's coast guard said Friday that it had rescued about 1,000 migrants from leaky boats in the Mediterranean; one person was found dead.

Officials said the migrants were found on nine different boats  six of them inflatable and three wooden. The dead body was recovered from one of the rubber dinghies, it said.

The coast guard said the migrants were transferred to rescue boats and were being taken to the Sicilian coast. It did not give details about their nationalities.

Most migrants crossing the sea from Libya to Italy come from Africa or the Middle East, usually paying people-smugglers for the sea passage.

More than 180,000 migrants reached Italy last year, a record number. The United Nations says more than 5,000 people died last year trying to cross the Mediterranean.
Britain's foreign minister says Bashar al-Assad should be allowed to seek another term as Syria's president if any agreement is reached to end the country's nearly six-year-long civil war.

The United States and its Western allies have long insisted that Assad must relinquish power in Syria as part of any peace agreement. But the latest remarks by British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson could signal a possible major shift in policy by one of Washington's closest partners.

Neither British Prime Minister Theresa May nor U.S. President Donald Trump mentioned Syria during their joint news conference at the White House Friday. Johnson did not accompany the British government chief on her visit to the U.S., but he discussed the situation in Syria with members of Parliament in London.

Time to re-evaluate

Johnson said the transition of power in Washington since Trump's inauguration should prompt all sides involved in the Syrian conflict to re-evaluate their positions. Taking note of the U.S. president's planned telephone discussion on Saturday with Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin, Johnson admitted that taking a new approach toward Syria would have potential drawbacks.

But speaking to the international relations committee of the House of Lords, the upper house of Parliament, Johnson said there is now a need to be realistic about the way the landscape has changed and seek a fresh approach to the Syrian crisis.

It is our view that Bashar al-Assad should go. It's been our long-standing position, Johnson said. But we are open-minded about how that happens and the timescale on which that happens.

Meeting with Bannon

Johnson discussed foreign policy and other issues earlier this month with senior members of Trump's team, including chief strategist Steve Bannon, in New York. Long known as a gadfly within Britain's Conservative Party, and for his outspoken, irreverent views, Johnson was a journalist and served as mayor of London until 2016, when his strong support for Brexit, Britain's breakaway from the European Union, catapulted him into the job of serving as his country's top diplomatic post in May's Cabinet.

Russia has sought to impose its influence as a power broker in the Syrian civil war, and Trump has repeated his desire to have a good relationship with Russia.

Russia question dodged

A White House adviser said Trump and Putin may discuss lifting U.S. sanctions imposed on Russia after its annexation of Crimea and support for secessionist groups in Ukraine. Speaking at his news conference with Britain's May, Trump did not answer directly when asked if he planned to ease any of the financial measures targeting Russian businesses.

If there is an agreement to end the civil war in Syria, Johnson said in London Thursday, Assad should be allowed to run for president in elections overseen by the United Nations. Russia and Iran have made similar proposals, saying Assad should be free to seek re-election during a future political transition period.

The 51-year-old Syrian government leader, trained as an ophthalmologist, has ruled his country since 2000, after the death of his father, Hafez al-Assad, who had tightly controlled Syria for three decades.
Maritime VSAT Market - Drivers and Forecasts by Technavio

Technavio analysts forecast the global maritime VSAT market to grow at a CAGR of close to 14% during the forecast period, according to their latest report.

This Smart News Release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170127005319/en/

Technavio has published a new report on the global maritime VSAT market from 2017-2021. (Graphic: Business Wire)

The research study covers the present scenario and growth prospects of the global maritime VSAT market for 2017-2021. The report provides total addressable maritime VSAT equipped vessels for the forecast period. Also, the report discusses the major drivers that influence the growth of the global maritime VSAT market.

Satellite maritime applications enable secure and interoperable network communications for naval operations and critical marine operations such as rescue, and administrative and support functions. Satellite services can provide global coverage and an effective communication channel to help in relief operations during a natural disaster and emergency situations. It also helps to detect incidents of the oil spill and transmit relevant information related to disasters to enable spontaneous search and rescue operations.

Request a sample report: http://www.technavio.com/request-a-sample?report=56149

Technavio's sample reports are free of charge and contain multiple sections of the report including the market size and forecast, drivers, challenges, trends, and more.

Technavio ICT analysts highlight the following three factors that are contributing to the growth of the global maritime VSAT market:

Growing adoption of satellite communication to monitor oil and gas rigs

The transpotation of oil and gas through pipelines requires 24/7 surveillance and monitoring due to the high risk and financial loss associated with its leakage. Therefore, supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems are used for remote surveillance, monitoring, and maintenance of these pipelines.







Abhishek Sharma, a lead M2M and connected devices analyst at Technavio, says, "An on-field monitoring network includes instrumentation units that can measure flow speed, pressure, and temperature; transmitters; data gathering units; and communication units such as VSAT earth stations."

Demand for broadband networks

Technological advances have led to an increase in the coverage area of cellular networks, microwaves, and satellites. The convergence of voice, video, and data simultaneously to all-IP networks has simplified the user's requirement.

"Though maritime communication has improved over the years, it still lags behind the advanced communication technology used on land. The demand for broadband services in the maritime industry is increasing rapidly due to the growing adoption of IP-based applications," adds Abhishek.

Increased adoption of smart vessels in the maritime sector

Maritime traffic has increased significantly with the rise in the number of ships traversing oceans. The maritime traffic has approximately increased four-fold during the last two decades. The major reason for increased maritime traffic is world trade. Industrial nations and emerging economies of energy and mineral resources such as China and India are regularly engaged in goods transport to distant countries via waterways.

ICT has evolved dramatically to reduce the cost of accessibility and mobility. According to IMO regulations, all vessels are mandated to deploy AIS units to monitor the shipping of traffic to avoid collisions and increase safety aspects. The increasing maritime traffic has created a high risk of wrecks and collisions, resulting in economic expenses.

Top vendors:

Harris CapRock

Hughes Network Systems

Inmarsat

KVH (News - Alert) Industries

ViaSat

VT iDirect

Browse Related Reports:

Become a Technavio Insights member and access all three of these reports for a fraction of their original cost. As a Technavio Insights member, you will have immediate access to new reports as they're published in addition to all 6,000+ existing reports covering segments like cloud computing, IT hardware, and IT security. This subscription nets you thousands in savings, while staying connected to Technavio's constant transforming research library, helping you make informed business decisions more efficiently.

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 [email protected].

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170127005319/en/
The U.S.-led operation to oust Islamic State militants from Mosul will not eliminate the organization's presence in Iraq, warned northern Iraq's Kurdistan Regional Government Prime Minister Nechirvan Barzani

"IS will not be eradicated from Iraq by a military operation," Barzani said Friday in an interview with VOA. "It may well lose cities like Mosul and [Syria's] Raqqa, but it will remain as an ideology and organization."

Barzani's comments come after The New York Times reported Thursday that the White House is drafting a presidential directive that calls on Defense Secretary James Mattis to devise plans to more aggressively strike IS, especially in Mosul and Raqqa, its capital in Syria.

U.S. President Donald Trump will demand that new options be presented to him within 30 days, according to the report.

IS fighters are reportedly reeling as their territorial control in Iraq and Syria continues to shrink. In Mosul, its last major stronghold in Iraq, the group has lost the eastern half of the city to the U.S.-backed Iraqi forces.

The operation for the west side of Mosul is expected to be more complicated, as it is crisscrossed by streets too narrow for armored vehicles and is more populated than eastern Mosul, Barzani said.

"The military operation is going slow now because we don't want more civilian deaths," he said. "The plan is going slowly and is supervised by the United States, while the Iraqi forces are a part of it."

U.S. backing seen as key

Barzani said his region's army, known as peshmerga, would not have made advances without aerial backing from the U.S.-led coalition against IS.

"This would not have been possible without international support, especially from the United States," Barzani said.

Sectarian violence and bloodshed have swept Iraq for years following the U.S.-led invasion in 2003. The Shi'ite-dominated Iraqi central government  especially with former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki  is accused of isolating the Sunni population, making them susceptible to extremist groups such as IS.

Under an agreement brokered partly by U.S. officials, Shi'ite militiamen are fighting on the western and southwestern outskirts of Mosul, and regular Iraqi army troops and peshmerga are on the eastern front. Peshmerga, under the agreement, are standing aside to let Iraqi forces take the battle into the mainly Sunni Muslim city.

Human rights groups have voiced repeated concerns about the treatment of civilians from areas once controlled by IS, and point to a growing anxiety among Iraqi Sunnis living under IS that they will be targeted by Shi'ites.

Incorrect politics created IS

Barzani told VOA that a continuing sectarian divide in Iraq will allow IS to thrive in some form.

"What's important to realize is that the problem in Iraq is political, not military," he said. "IS is created in this country. It is the consequence of incorrect politics that has been in place for years in Iraq. Until those political circumstances are resolved, I doubt IS will end in Iraq. Until now, we don't see a single step made in Iraq to resolve those problems that led to IS."

To prevent IS from regrouping amid sectarian disputes, some Kurdish leaders are calling for a stronger U.S. military presence in northern Iraq.

"In my opinion, after the liberation of Mosul and other areas from IS, the American Special Forces and advisers should stay in Iraq even in a larger number," Najmaldin Karim, a Kurd and the governor of Kirkuk, told VOA. The oil-rich city of Kirkuk is a disputed territory claimed by both the Kurdish Region and the Iraqi government.

"I think President Trump is better to make an agreement with the Kurdistan Region to ensure American Special Forces remain in the region," Karim said.
At 14 years old, Ali is a breadwinner and a smoker in an area of Mosul that was recaptured from Islamic State militants by Iraqi forces in early January. Seven months ago, Islamic State militants urged him to join as they bolstered their forces for upcoming battles. In a borrowed house in a part of Mosul no longer under IS control, Ali and his mother, Iman, tell VOA the story of why he could never join the group, no matter how dangerous it was to stay out. Ali and his mom tell their story in Arabic, and it is edited for clarity.



Ali: I was in second grade when IS came here, but I dropped out of school and started working. I bought a wooden cart and helped people move things from place to place for money. At first, they didnt bother us, but a group calling themselves Islamic State killed my father in 2009. My mother would never have let me have anything to do with them.



Mom: They were peaceful when they first arrived because they were busy settling in. Government workers were suddenly unemployed. Other than that, nothing changed.



A month later they started imposing strange rules. I wasnt allowed out without a veil and gloves, and I had to be accompanied by a male relative. Ali was the only one who could take me out of the house.

When I sent my 11-year-old daughter, Shamea, out to the grocery store, I thought it was OK for her to wear jeans. An IS militant ordered her back home, saying, Dont come out again until you are dressed properly.

After that, even Dallel, my 7-year-old daughter, refused go out of the house without a black veil on her face. She was scared of the militants. They wore big beards, carried weapons and gave loud orders. I had to buy the smallest size burka and alter it.

After the rules came the violence. It started with blowing up churches.



Ali: There were whippings if you were caught outside at prayer time. Then there were killings.

About a year ago we were outside shopping in our neighborhood with my little brother and sisters. A group of cars approached. In the center car we saw two teenage boys and one man in the back, all handcuffed. They were crying.

My sisters saw they were wearing orange prison jumpers and ran inside the house. IS militants told the rest of us, Come and be witnesses. We followed them to the nearby mosque. We heard the three were caught talking to people on the internet that they were not allowed to talk to.

Mom: As militants took them out of the car, one of the boys shouted, Please, please, I swear Ill do whatever you want. Please dont kill me. I didnt do anything wrong!

Ali: The militants made them all kneel and pushed their heads on blocks. The three thrashed around, while IS militants ordered them to be still. Militants kicked them and pulled out their swords.

God is Great! shouted one militant. I turned my face away. When I looked back, the three heads were on the ground. If anyone doesnt obey Gods laws, this is what will happen to them, the militant said. But he was wrong. He didnt mean Gods laws. He meant IS rules.

Then militants shot the severed heads with their guns. IS calls this a "mercy bullet" because it is less painful to die with a bullet to the head than any other way.

The bodies were then thrown in sacks and loaded in a car. The heads remained at the mosque for days as a warning to the rest of us.

Mom: It was hard for us because three IS militants lived in our building with their families. They interfered with our lives in strange ways, like ordering the children not to say bye in English because, they said it was a sin. I didnt talk to the wives and I didnt let my children play with their children.

But when the militants asked me to let Ali join IS, I had to lie. I told them he was busy in school and could not join. Men like that killed my husband. I will never forget this.

Ali: They also asked me if I wanted to join while I was walking up the stairs one day with my friends in our apartment building about seven months ago. Hey guys, the man said in a friendly way. How are you?

Why dont you join us, he asked me. We will give you money. You will have a good life and if you die you will be blessed with 70 virgins in heaven.

I said, No, I have school.

You know, I would have joined if they were on a true religious path. But they were on a very wrong path.

I no longer work moving things because my cart was destroyed by mortar fire. But I sell water and snacks with my uncle. Its actually a better job.
Many people across the Pacific region began celebrating the arrival Saturday of the Lunar New Year  the year of the rooster.

In China, thousands gathered at Beijings temples to light incense and to bow as they prayed for good fortune and health.

Some Beijing residents traveled to Badachu Park to ring a bell that dates back to the Ming Dynasty that reigned for more than 200 years beginning in the 14th century.

In Chinas northeast Jilin Province, people welcomed in the new year with the Yangko, a folk dance.

In Taipei, people prayed for good fortune and prosperity at the historical Longshan temple.

In Injingak, South Korea, the Lunar New Year is a time to remember family members who were separated from their relatives decades ago. According to tradition, the eldest son makes offerings of rice cakes, fruit and fish that are placed on an altar.

At a new years observation on the frozen banks of the Imjin River, many elderly men made their offerings. Some walked away with tears at the memory of the loss of family members when the Korea peninsula was divided into North and South.
Residents of Chinas capital awoke Saturday to dense, choking smog after many set off a barrage of fireworks overnight to ring in the Lunar New Year, despite limits and public admonitions against such displays in the congested city.

The Beijing Municipal Environmental Protection Bureau said harmful particulate matter in the air had hit the second-highest level in five years by Saturday morning, the state-owned China News Service reported.

Beijing launched a war against pollution in 2014 as part of a central government promise to reverse damage done by decades of breakneck growth and strengthen powers to shut down and punish polluters. Efforts to clean up the skies in the industrial heartland around Beijing are being thwarted by coal-burning industry and indoor heating, which increases during Chinas winter months.

Public health concerns over air pollution have grown and the government has found no source of pollution too small to ignore. They have even taken on outdoor food vendors in recent years, as well as the annual battle against Chinas long tradition of lighting fireworks to celebrate the Lunar New Year.

In setting off fireworks, be conscious of setting off the (pollution) index, read an editorial Saturday in the Peoples Daily newspaper, the Communist Party mouthpiece.

Fireworks purchases down

Hundreds of millions of people criss-cross China to visit family and friends during the Lunar New Year period, with the government predicting up to 3 billion trips.

In Beijing, efforts to ease smog included neighborhood postings asking residents not to light fireworks, fewer approvals for firework stalls and officials being warned to lead by example and abstain from the pyrotechnics.

Although state-owned Xinhua reported that purchases of fireworks fell 4.9 percent in Beijing this year, the measures werent enough to avoid a spike in pollution from healthy to hazardous levels in a matter of hours.

Small particulates dangerous

Beijings level of PM2.5, a measure of small particulate matter particularly damaging to health, peaked at 647 micrograms per cubic meter early Saturday, the national Ministry of Environmental Protection said in a statement on its website.

That was well beyond the upper limit of 500 on Chinas air quality index and double the threshold considered hazardous.

The greater region of Beijing, the nearby port city of Tianjin and surrounding Hebei province surpassed peak levels of PM2.5 in 2016, it said.

In response, many on the streets of Beijing wore masks to welcome the Year of the Rooster, including paramilitary police stationed at Beijings Lama Temple and spectators at outdoor performances.

Dispersal of the pollution largely depends on weather conditions, with two cold air fronts likely to help reduce pollution in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Region through to Wednesday, the environmental ministry said, before conditions deteriorate again and potentially lead to another heavy bout of pollution.
Rainforests, it turns out, are not created equal.

Take the Amazon rainforest, an area that covers about 7 million square kilometers. It lies within the borders of nine South American countries: Brazil, with 60 percent of the rainforest, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana.

It's not just one giant forest

But within that huge expanse are all kinds of ecological zones, and some of these zones, says Greg Asner, the principal investigator at the Carnegie Airborne Observatory (CAO), are a lot more crowded than others.

"Some forests have many species of trees," he told VOA, "others have few. Many forests are unique from others in terms of their overall species composition..." And all of these different small areas of forest exist within the giant space that is the Amazon Rainforest.

So Asner, using the CAO's signature technique called airborne laser-guided imaging spectroscopy, began to map these different zones from the air.

"By mapping the traits of tropical forests from above," he explains, "we are, for the first time, able to understand how forest composition varies geographically."

The results show up in crazy-looking multicolored maps, with each color representing different kinds of species, different kinds of trees, the different kinds of chemicals they are producing and using, and even the amount of biodiversity, the animal and plant species that live within each zone.

Mapping High Priority Targets

Armed with this information, Asner says decision-makers now have "a first-time way to decide whether any given forest geography is protected well enough or not. If not, then new protections can be put in place to save a given forest from destruction."

The Carnegie team joined with the Peruvian Ministry of Environment (MINAM) on this project. Working together, they were able to "find about [121 million square kilometers] of biologically unique lowland Amazonian forest and [28 thousand square kilometers] of peatland forest in northern Peru that could be conserved, as well as [6,000 square meters] of distinct submontane [foothills] and high Andean forests that are highly threatened."

Asner says the information is a great way for decision-makers to develop a "cost-benefit ratio type analysis." Conservation efforts can be expensive, so armed with this information, government leaders can ensure they are making the most of their conservation dollars by focusing on areas that are the most biologically diverse or unique.

The next step, Asner says, is to take his project global, and to put his eyes even higher in the sky, on orbital satellites.

"The technique we developed and applied to map Peru is ready to go global," Asner said. "We want to put the required instrumentation on an Earth-orbiting satellite, to map the planet every month, which will give the best possible view of how the world's biodiversity is changing, and where to put much needed protections."

It's an ambitious project but the technology, Asner says, is ready. If and when it gets put up in space, it will give conservationists a way to track not just the rainforest, but the world's changing biodiversity.
The debate over sanctuary cities in the U.S., whether local municipalities should comply with federal law enforcement in obtaining the citizenship status of residents, is an issue that affects even the youngest students across the country. In border towns like Chula Vista, California, it's not uncommon for kids to consider both the United States and Mexico home.
Four of the five Pakistani rights campaigners and bloggers, who mysteriously disappeared from several cities earlier this month, have returned home.

Police, relatives and sources confirmed Saturday that noted rights defender Salman Haider rejoined his family.

He is fine and safe, said family members who refused to offer further comments on his whereabouts and the motive for his kidnapping.

Haider, a progressive poet and university lecturer, was on his way home late on January 6 when unknown men intercepted his car just outside the national capital of Islamabad and took him away.

Three other missing activists, Ahmed Raza Naseer, Asim Sayeed and Waqas Goraya, have also been freed and rejoined their families. They were also abducted from in and around the eastern city of Lahore within the first week of January.

Family members were not immediately available to discuss the development and authorities have yet to confirm the reported release of the three men.

The release of Haider after several weeks in mysterious circumstances raises more questions than it answers, say civil society activists in Pakistan. Now that he has been released, and we do not know what has happened to him, he needs protection, Gibran Nasir, a prominent civil society activist tells VOA's Deewa language service.

It was not immediately known who was behind the kidnappings, or what their motives were.

The whereabouts of a fifth missing activist, Samar Abbas, remained unknown.

Intel agencies suspected

The near simultaneous abductions prompted nationwide protests by Pakistani rights groups and media criticism of the government, demanding authorities immediately locate the men. They suspected state intelligence agencies were behind the kidnappings.

The federal interior minister repeatedly rejected the assertions and promised police would soon determine their whereabouts.

However, since their abduction three weeks ago, some Pakistani talk show hosts and postings on social media accused the five men of committing blasphemy through their blogs and writings.

Families and rights groups strongly denied the blasphemy allegations and insisted the men were kidnapped for promoting liberal views and criticism of Pakistans powerful military.

The allegations of blasphemy against the "missing" activists and bloggers have put their lives in grave danger of vigilante killings after their return from their mysterious disappearance and captivity, a leading human rights activist told VOA.

She refused to be identified, saying the atmosphere and environment is so fearsome in Pakistan that most people who have any information or views on this case are afraid to speak on the record.

While insulting Islam or The Prophet Muhammad carries the death penalty in Pakistan, even mere charges of blasphemy have provoked extrajudicial mob killings of suspects by religious fanatics.

Security institutions in Pakistan have long been accused by rights groups of being behind forced disappearances of people in southwestern Baluchistan province where ethnic Baluch separatists are waging a low-level insurgency.

Officials have denied the allegations but ironically, judicial interventions in recent years have led to freedom for hundreds of Pakistanis from illegal detention.
Who are the federal government's rogue tweeters, using official agency social media accounts to poke President Donald Trump? Are these acts of civil disobedience or federal crimes?

The online campaign began with unauthorized tweets  on subjects such as climate change, and inconsistent with Trump's campaign statements and policies  that have been mostly deleted from official agency accounts. It shifted tactics Thursday as at least 40 new but unofficial "alternative" accounts for federal agencies began spreading across Twitter. It wasn't clear how many unofficial accounts were being run by government employees, but there were early indications that at least some had been created by federal workers using their work email addresses  and that may have exposed their identities.

The administration said the earlier Twitter actions involved tweets by unauthorized users  at least one was a former employee  who still had passwords for the agency accounts, including one case involving the account for the Redwoods National Park in California. Legal experts said the Justice Department could prosecute such tweeters under federal hacking laws, but the FBI so far was not involved.

Unauthorized user

"An unauthorized user had an old password in the San Francisco office, went in and started retweeting inappropriate things that were in violation of their policy," White House spokesman Sean Spicer said.

Separately, the National Park Service said tweets published earlier this week on the account of the Badlands National Park in South Dakota had been posted by a former employee not authorized to use the account.

Employees or former employees publishing unauthorized messages on official accounts could be prosecuted under the U.S. Computer Fraud and Abuse Act, which prohibits someone from exceeding authorized access to computers. "The argument would be that the authorization to use the account was only for employees and implicitly that was extinguished when the employee left government employment," said Orin Kerr, a law professor at George Washington University.

Even employees authorized to use official agency Twitter accounts could face legal jeopardy by posting messages they weren't supposed to write, said Stewart Baker, a cybersecurity lawyer and former National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security official.

"If someone says you may not tweet except in these circumstances, and you tweet in other circumstances, you're exceeding authority," Baker said. He added that some federal courts would examine the security measures in place and could throw out cases where employees weren't clearly violating them.

Investigation possible

"It wouldn't surprise me if at this stage a criminal investigation was opened and criminal tools were used to investigate this, even if at the end of the day they decided not to pursue criminal charges," Baker said.

A federal law enforcement official, speaking on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to discuss the matter by name, said he was unaware of any requests from federal agencies to investigate the rogue tweets.

The unauthorized messages posted under official accounts appeared to be dropping off, as the Trump administration regained control over its agency accounts. Over last weekend, immediately after Trump's inauguration, transition staff changed all social media passwords for the Environmental Protection Agency, said Jared Blumenfeld, a former EPA official under the Obama administration who said he was speaking regularly with former colleagues.

Starting Wednesday, scores of unofficial Twitter accounts appeared purporting to represent federal agencies, mocking Trump via the same social media service the president uses daily. At least some were linked to federal employees using work email addresses who inadvertently revealed their involvement.

Addresses already present

Twitter users can choose to allow others on the service to find them by searching for their email address. In other cases, Twitter notified users who previously shared their online address books using Twitter's "Find Friends" feature that anonymous accounts were created by federal employees whose work email addresses were already in those address books.

One side effect to the Twitter dispute? Some U.S. government Twitter accounts saw surges in followers.

"We're thrilled you found us," said the official account for Biscayne National Park in Florida, "for whatever reason."
Syrian media and a key monitoring group say government forces outside Damascus have regained control of a fresh-water spring that supplies the capital, after reaching a deal that allows rebel fighters dug in at the site to withdraw.

The state-controlled SANA news agency quoted a local governor Saturday as saying the evacuation of rebel fighters was delayed for several hours by bad weather. Ala'a Ibrahim also said maintenance and repairs at the crippled water facility would begin as soon as the military declares the area secure.

The government advance sets the stage for an end to a nearly six-week standoff at the supply village northwest of Damascus that began with a December 22 explosion at a key processing plant.



The blast sent diesel fuel spewing into the Barada River, contaminating supplies and creating severe water shortages that upended daily life for most of the capital's 5.5 million residents.

The government blamed rebels for the blast, while opposition leaders attributed the the explosion and the resulting contamination to government airstrikes.

The United Nations said the equipment "was deliberately targeted" but did not fix blame for the blast.

On Saturday, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which has monitored the water crisis, confirmed the rebel pullback and said government forces entered the contested area with ambulances to evacuate wounded rebel fighters. A statement also confirmed that a Syrian flag had been raised at the site.

However, Observatory chief Rami Abdurrahman said rebel fighters remained in nearby villages in the Barada Valley, and that the remaining militants included extremist fighters with links to al-Qaida.

Abdurrahman said the withdrawal deal calls for rebels who are not from the immediate area to relocate to Idlib province, a rebel stronghold in northwestern Syria.



Local rebels also would be allowed to depart, he said, but they also would be offered the option of switching sides in the civil war and fighting alongside government forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad.


1986

Trump Meets Soviet Ambassador

At a New York event, Trump met Yuri Dubinin, Soviet Ambassador to the United States.

1987

Trump Meets Gorbachev

In Washington, Trump met with visiting Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev.

1987

First Trip to then-Soviet Union

Trump traveled to the Soviet Union with first wife Ivana to search for hotel sites for a possible joint-venture with Intourist, the Soviet government's tourism agency.

1996

Second Trip to Now-Russia

Trump traveled to Moscow with proposal for luxury residential complex to be built on property owned by a U.S. tobacco company and publicly praised the city's potential.

1996

Trump Applies for Russian Trademarks

Trump starts to seek trademarks in Russia for company names, including Trump Tower. CNN Money reported at least eight trademark applications were filed in Russia from 1996 to 2008.



1997

Trump Meets Alexander Lebed in New York

Trump hosted retired Russian general and presidential aspirant Alexander Lebed at Trump Tower in New York.

1997

Trump and Statue of Christopher Columbus

Trump spoke of installing near the Hudson River in New York a bronze statue of Christopher Columbus created by a billionaire artist friend of Russian President Boris Yeltsin and donated by the Russian government. The statue, taller than the Statue of Liberty, ended up in Puerto Rico.

1999

Trump Negative About Russia and Yeltsin

Trump described Russia as out of control and Yeltsin as a disaster during a television interview.



2005

Trump Eyes Moscow Trump Tower

Trump worked with New York's Bayrock Group to develop a Trump Tower in Moscow. A site was chosen, but the project did not go forward.

2006

Trump's Children Travel to Moscow

Trump's children, Donald Jr and Ivanka, made a trip to Moscow. In 2008, Donald Jr stated this was one of six trips he made to Russia over a period of one and one-half years.

2007

Third Trip To Russia to Promote vodka

Trump and partners promote "Trump Super Premium Vodka 24K" at the Millionaire Fair in Moscow. Bottles are "decorated with pure twenty-four karat gold."

2008

Trump announces TV show partnership

Trump and partner, Affliction Entertainment, a mixed martial arts company, announced plans to film a multi-episode reality TV show in Russia. The show did not get made.

2013

Fourth Trip to Moscow for Miss Universe Pageant

Trump and NBC sold rights to Russians to host the 2013 Miss Universe pageant and Trump attended the event. After the trip he tweeted: Moscow is a very interesting and amazing place and that TRUMP TOWER-MOSCOW is next.

2016

Trump and Putin Speak on the Phone

On November 14, Putin called Trump to formally congratulate him on his victory in the presidential election and expressed hope for cooperation in ending a crisis in Russian-American relations.



Sources: The New York Times, The Washington Post, CNN, The Financial Times, and The Moscow Times
This Account has been suspended.
U.S. President Donald Trump has spoken by phone with Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto, a conversation Trump described as "very, very friendly," a day after Pena Nieto canceled a planned trip to Washington.

Trump said his talk with Pena Nieto on Friday lasted for about an hour and said the two of them will be working on a fair relationship, a new relationship. However, Trump also said the two countries would be renegotiating our trade deals and said he would make sure the Untied States does not lose on trade.

Speaking to reporters Friday at a news conference with visiting British Prime Minister Theresa May, Trump said, I have great respect for Mexico. I love the Mexican people. But he said regarding trade, Mexico has outnegotiated us and beat us to a pulp. They've made us look foolish.

Presidents agree to disagree

Trump did not mention the wall he wants to build along the U.S.-Mexico border, the issue that led to Pena Nieto's cancellation of next week's meeting with Trump in Washington. Trump insists that Mexico pay for the wall, while Pena Nieto says Mexico will not.

A White House statement said, With respect to payment for the border wall, both presidents recognize their clear and very public differences of positions on this issue but have agreed to work these differences out as part of a comprehensive discussion on all aspects of the bilateral relationship.

A statement from Pena Nieto's office echoed the U.S. one, saying that the countries agreed to resolve their differences as part of ongoing discussions about the relationship. But it added, The president also agreed for now not to talk publicly about this controversial issue.

'Buffet of options'

On Thursday, the White House said Trump has a buffet of options on how to get Mexico to pay for the wall.

The White House initially said Thursday that Trump wanted to slap a 20 percent tax on all imports from Mexico. White House press secretary Sean Spicer told reporters the new tax would raise $10 billion a year and easily pay for the wall. He also said the president discussed the idea with congressional leaders and wanted to include the measure in a comprehensive tax reform package that Congress would have to approve.

But later, the White House said the idea was just one of several options on the table for paying for a wall along the southern border. And it said Trump had yet to decide how the U.S. would recoup the costs of his proposed border wall.

U.S. taxpayers initially would foot the bill for the wall, which is expected to cost as much as $15 billion.

Wall a campaign promise

It is unclear what retaliatory steps Mexico could take if the border tax is approved, because exports to the U.S. are essential to the Mexican economy.

Trump made building a wall one of his top promises during the presidential campaign. He often led his supporters in chants of build the wall, build the wall.

The wall along the U.S.-Mexico border would be primarily aimed at stopping illegal immigration into the United States. But many Mexicans regard it as an insult, and the rough terrain and stretches of private property along the border could make building the wall a long and complicated project.
President Donald Trump has signed two executive actions designed to enhance U.S. security, the more far-reaching of which restricts any Syrian refugees from entering the United States for an indefinite period of time.

Friday's executive order titled "Protecting the Nation from Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States," calls for suspension of visas and other immigration benefits to citizens of "countries of particular concern."

Two United Nations agencies issued a joint statement Saturday just hours after Trump's order, saying "The needs of refugees and migrants worldwide have never been greater, and the U.S. resettlement program is one of the most important in the world."

The U.N. Refugee Agency and the International Organization for Migration said they hope the "U.S. will continue its strong leadership role and long tradition of protecting those who are fleeing conflict and persecution." The agencies said they "strongly believe that refugees should receive equal treatment for protection and assistance, and opportunities for resettlement, regardless of their religion, nationality or race."

Trump signed the order Friday at the Pentagon where he participated in a swearing-in ceremony for Defense Secretary James Mattis. Soon after the president's action protesters staged a demonstration at the main federal office building in New York.

As a reason for the order, the document cites the September 11, 2001, attacks on New York and Washington, which were carried out by 19 foreigners who obtained visas to enter the United States without difficulty. It refers to other terrorism-related crimes committed over the past 15 years by foreign nationals who entered the United States using either short-term visas - as visitors, students or temporary workers - or as refugees seeking resettlement in the U.S.

Averting attacks

"Deteriorating conditions in certain countries due to war, strife, disaster and civil unrest increase the likelihood that terrorists will use any means possible to entered the United States," the order states, and it calls for greater vigilance and caution by American consular officials before visas are granted.

The order does not spell out which countries are "of particular concern," although it authorizes the Department of Homeland Security to keep track of nations that do not provide adequate information about their citizens. White House officials indicated earlier this week that Iran, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Libya, Yemen and Somalia would be an initial list of countries "of concern," but the order noted additions to the list could be made at any time.

As reported earlier when drafts of Trump's planned action circulated in Washington several days ago, the official text forbids the entry into the United States of any Syrian refugees for an indefinite period, until the president determines "that sufficient changes have been made ... to ensure that admission of Syrian refugees is consistent with the national interest."

The order also suspends operations of the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program for 120 days, while the Secretary of State and other officials reevaluate procedures "to ensure that those approved for refugee admission do not pose a threat to the security and welfare of the United States." It also limits the number of refugees that may be admitted to the United States to 50,000 during fiscal 2017, the 12-month period that ends on September 30.

Who will be affected?

The president said Friday that only people who support the United States should be allowed into the country. The executive order he signed discussed identification and verification procedures that U.S. consular officers should use in extensive detail.

Under the general topic of terrorism, the executive order directed U.S. officials to watch for "gender-based violence against women, including 'honor killings," and called for the gathering of "any other information relevant to public safety and security."

"We don't want them here," said Trump. "We want to make sure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas. We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people."

Peter Brookes, a senior fellow of national security affairs at Heritage Foundation, said the ban is essentially a pause being used by the new administration to review past programs and policies. He said it was an important step needed to avoid the problems that we have seen Europe suffer at hands of people who have either been recent refugees or come in posing as refugees.

Brookes noted that recent gains made by coalition forces fighting against the Islamic State group in Syria and Iraq are putting pressure on the Islamic extremists, making it more likely they might try to flee to other countries.

I think ISIS is in crisis. It is under significant pressure in both Mosul and Raqqa. The caliphate is going to crumble at some point in the future and those fighters are going to go somewhere. They may try to return home or may try to go to other countries, he said.

Others say the threat of terrorism from refugees is overblown, however, and the U.S. has a duty to accept people from these war-torn countries.

There is really a very limited risk of refugees committing crimes or acts of terrorism and there is a lot of statistics about that, Benjamin Friedman, a research fellow in defense and homeland security studies at the CATO institute, said. Particularly with regards to Iraq, Libya and to a lesser extent Syria I think the United States has a unique responsibility to accept immigrants refugees included because we helped destabilize those countries.

Mark Hetfield of the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society, added, "It's clear that President Trump has decided to pick on refugees. ... This is going to cost tens of thousands, hundreds of thousands of people their lives, because they won't find protection here. They won't find protection anywhere."

Busy courts

Former New York prosecutor Paul Callan said Friday that he expects the refugee order will generate a great deal of legal activity, particularly if people already in the United States are affected.

"You can block people from coming into the country, but once they're in, all persons have constitutional protections if they're in the United States. And certainly, if there is a claim that those constitutional rights are being violated by an executive order, that claim would go to the U.S. Supreme Court."

A Syrian asylum-seeker told VOA refuges are victims, not terrorists.

I applied for asylum from inside the U.S. in late 2014. I've been in the process for more than two years and I didn't get my asylum yet. That shows how long the vetting process is and how stringent the security checks are, said Middle East Institute resident fellow Ibrahim Al Assil.

President Trumps suspension of the U.S. Refugee Admission Program for 120 days and indefinite halt of refugee processing and admittance of Syrian refugees is in disregard for human rights, added Assil who co-founded the Syrian Nonviolence Movement, this is a fundamental violation of the right to seek asylum in accordance with the 1951 Refugee Convention.

The 1951 Refugee Convention is the key document that defines the term refugee and outlines the rights of the displaced, as well as the legal obligations of States to protect them.

Policy review

Also Friday, Trump signed a presidential memorandum directed at the new secretary of defense and the Office of Budget Management, outlining their responsibilities for evaluating the nation's security policies.

An executive memorandum differs from an executive order in that it is directed at a specific federal agency. An executive order is always entered into the Federal Register, the official daily journal of U.S. government activity. While memoranda may not be formally recorded in the Federal Register, both types of presidential action carry the force of law.

Trump said the memorandum regarding national security was intended to better support the U.S. military.

"Believe me," the president said, "first I'm signing an executive action to begin a great rebuilding of the armed services of the United States, developing a plan for new planes, new ships, new resources, and new tools for our men and women in uniform. And I'm very proud to be doing that."

The memorandum, proclaiming a policy of pursuing "peace through strength," said the new secretary must conduct a 30-day readiness review assessing training, equipment maintenance, munitions, modernization, and infrastructure of the current armed forces. It tasks the new secretary with submitting to the president a report and a plan within 60 days, identifying actions that can be implemented within the current fiscal years to improve readiness.



The memorandum says Mattis must initiate a new Nuclear Posture Review to make sure the U.S. nuclear deterrent is "modern, robust, flexible, resilient, ready, and appropriately tailored to deter 21st-century threats and reassure" U.S. allies.

VOA's Nike Ching, Fern Robinson and Hasib Alikozai contributed to this report.
The White House says President Donald Trump and Saudi King Salman bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud have agreed to back safe zones in Syria and Yemen.

The two spoke by telephone Sunday, reaffirming the longstanding relationship between the United States and Saudi Arabia.

A White House statement said Trump asked for the king's support for safe zones, and that the king agreed.

They also said they will support what the White House called "other ideas" to help refugees driven from their homes because of war, and the "importance of rigorously enforcing" the nuclear deal with Iran, which Trump has fiercely criticized as a bad deal.

Trump spent the last two days reaching out by telephone to a number of world leaders. He also was to talk Sunday with the crown prince of the United Arab Emirates, Mohammed bin Zayed, and acting South Korean President Hwang Kyo-Ahn.

He spoke Saturday to Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, French President Francois Hollande and Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.

In a much anticipated call, Trump also spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin, agreeing to cooperate in defeating Islamic State and work for peace in Syria and throughout the world.

The White House said the hour-long call was "positive," and that it was "a significant start to improving the relationship" between Washington and Moscow, which has been badly strained in recent months, primarily over allegations that Russia interfered in the November presidential election.

Neither side mentioned U.S.-imposed sanctions on Russia, or the possibility they could be eased.



A Kremlin statement said Putin and Trump "thoroughly discussed" international issues, "including the fight against terrorism, the situation in the Middle East, the Arab-Israeli conflict, the sphere of strategic stability and nonproliferation, the situation around the Iranian nuclear program and the Korean Peninsula."

The talks also "touched upon ... the main aspects of the crisis in Ukraine," Moscow's statement said, adding: "It was agreed to establish a partnership on all these and other areas."
Several people have been detained at U.S. airports and others have been barred from boarding flights destined for the U.S., according to U.S.-based lawyers and international airport officials, as an executive order signed Friday by President Donald Trump restricting travel from certain countries begins to take hold.

The executive order took effect Friday night, banning citizens of seven majority-Muslim countries and stranding some at airports mid-journey. The New York Times reported that lawyers had already taken legal action on behalf of two Iraqi refugees, one of which was still being held at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport.

The lawyers also requested a process that would extend the lawsuit to include all refugees who said they were being illegally detained at U.S. airports.

The lawyers, who were working with the International Refugee Assistance Project and other civil rights groups, told the Times that one of the men, Hameed Khalid Darweesh, who has since been released, worked with the U.S. government in Iraq for 10 years, and the other was traveling to America to join his wife and young son, who already live here.

WATCH: Trump Immigration Order Sparks Protests at NY Airport

'A total shock'

"We've never had an issue once one of our clients was at a port of entry in the United States," lawyer Mark Doss told the Times. "To see people being detained indefinitely in the country that's supposed to welcome them is a total shock."

Darweesh spoke to reporters upon his release at the airport. When asked his thoughts on Trump, Darweesh said: "I like him. But I don't know. This is a policy I don't know. He is a president. I'm a normal person."

Abed Ayoub, a lawyer with the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee, said there were 11 people being detained at JFK. He also said he knew of others being detained at airports in Atlanta, Houston and Detroit.

WATCH: Trump: 'It's not a Muslim ban'

"There are individuals at other airports where this is happening," he said, though he didn't have an exact number.

Officials at the Cairo airport in Egypt said an Iraqi family had been barred from boarding a plane destined for New York because of the new regulations.

When the flight manifest was sent to JFK Airport in New York, officials there responded with instructions not to let the family  a man, his wife and two children  on the EgyptAir flight.

Qatar Airways told its customers from the seven countries they would need either a green card  indicating legal permanent residency  or a diplomatic visa in order to board a flight destined for the U.S.

Paul Callan, a CNN legal analyst and former New York City prosecutor, told VOA that refugees and others could legally be blocked from entering the U.S., but once they arrived on U.S. soil, dealing with them became more difficult because they were protected by the U.S. Constitution.

"You can block people from coming into the country. But once they're in, all persons have constitutional protections if they're in the United States, and certainly if there is a claim that those constitutional rights are being violated by an executive order, that claim would go to the U.S. Supreme Court. So I think we'll see a lot of litigation on this issue," he said.

Anthony Romero, the executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union, said Trump's order violated the Constitution's ban on religious discrimination because it barred immigration from Muslim-majority countries.

" 'Extreme vetting' is just a euphemism for discriminating against Muslims," he said.

State Department guidance

VOA asked the State Department what guidance it was providing to those refugees in transit to the U.S. or green card holders who might currently be out of the country. A spokesman responded that the department was working to put the executive order into effect and that the "safety and security of the American people always comes first."

"We take seriously our responsibility to safeguard the American public while remaining committed to assisting the world's most vulnerable people," State Department spokesman Mark Toner said.

Gillian Christensen, a spokeswoman for the Department of Homeland Security, told Reuters that the Trump executive order "will bar green card holders."

In addition to barring residents of Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen from entering the U.S. for 90 days, the executive order permanently banned admission of Syrian refugees and placed a 120-day ban on all other refugees entering the U.S.

The president said Friday that only people who supported the United States should be allowed into the country. The executive order he signed discussed identification and verification procedures that U.S. consular officers should use in extensive detail, he said.

"We want to make sure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas," Trump said. "We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people."
U.S. President Donald Trump has said as many as 5 million non-citizens may have voted illegally and cost him the popular vote in the November election. He is calling for a major investigation.

The scope of the investigation has not yet been announced, but Trump tweeted he would look into those registered to vote in two states, those who are illegal  even those registered to vote who are dead, with an eye to strengthening the electoral process.



His comments have set off a flurry of debate among analysts on both sides of the political spectrum over whether the problem is widespread enough to warrant a costly investigation.

Non-citizen ballots

It strikes me that he has the order reversed, said Justin Levitt, a professor at the Loyola Law School in Los Angeles and an expert in constitutional law and the law of democracy. I dont have a lot of faith in investigations where the conclusions are announced first.

Edward Ned Foley of Ohio State Universitys Moritz College of Law, an expert in election law and author of Ballot Battles: The History of Disputed Elections in the United States, said he thinks the issue of non-citizen voting shouldnt be a top priority for the Trump White House.

Non-citizens are not allowed to vote, and any time a non-citizen actually does cast a ballot, that shouldnt happen. But from everything we know already, the prevalence of that is extremely low, extraordinarily low.

Studying the problem

As long as there have been U.S. elections, there have been allegations of voter fraud.

Back in 1792, Georgia lawmaker Anthony Wayne lost his seat in Americas second Congress after his opponent, James Jackson, alleged voter fraud. A careful recount of ballots in two Georgia counties showed more people voted in the 1790 election than were actually eligible to do so.

In recent times, the presidential election of 2000 saw Democrat Al Gore lose to Republican George W. Bush. In Florida, Bush won by only 1,784 votes, a margin so narrow that it triggered a recount in that state.

In going over the ballots, a number of irregularities were discovered. Machines had failed to count thousands of faulty ballots. More alarming, as many as 12,000 eligible voters, many of them African American, had been purged from voter rolls two years before the elections. This led to allegations of widespread disenfranchisement and denial of voting rights.

In 2002, the Justice Department launched its Voting Rights and Integrity Initiative, a rigorous, five-year investigation into the problem of voter fraud. Four years and untold millions of dollars later, the department reported it had convicted 86 individuals of ballot fraud, many of whom had simply misunderstood the rules.

Ricardo Knight, a Jamaican native and permanent resident living in Floridas Miami-Dade County was one of those convicted. According to South Floridas Sun Sentinel newspaper, he told immigration authorities in a citizenship interview later that he had voted in the 2000 election. He explained he had not known he wasnt eligible to register and vote.

Loyola Universitys Levitt studied allegations of individual voter fraud across the country in a variety of local, special, preliminary and general elections that took place between 2000 and 2014. He announced his findings in The Washington Post in 2014.

I looked for any credible allegations that an individual had actually showed up at the polls and voted in somebody elses name, he said. I found at the time only 31 credible allegations of in-person fraud at the polls, and, as I noted at the time, some of those might not have proved true.

Hardly enough to sway a national election, he said.

Others find more examples

But Jason Snead, a policy analyst at the Heritage Centers Edwin Meese III Center for Legal and Judicial Studies, believes the problem is far more prevalent.

Heritage has already identified just in the last few years hundreds of cases and convictions where voter fraud has been proven beyond a reasonable doubt to have occurred and people have been found to be responsible for that, he said. Heritage has posted an online sampling of 462 voter fraud cases, listed by state, which resulted in 742 criminal convictions, most of them over the past decade.

We have seen where there are local cabals or widespread conspiracies that are designed to manipulate the election system or to keep people in office or get particular people elected. We certainly see vote buying operations, efforts to go around and, quote unquote, assist people in filling out their absentee ballots, he said.

He cites many cases of individual voter fraud.

And of course, this isnt just non-citizens voting. Its also felons whove had their voting rights taken away from them, this is people voting in multiple locations, Snead said. And I believe this is the tip of the iceberg.

Many registrations no longer valid

A 2012 Pew Study found one out of every eight voter registrations to be either inaccurate or no longer valid. It also reported that 1.8 million registered voters are actually deceased and that 2.75 million Americans are registered in multiple states.

Most recently, the Public Interest Legal Foundation issued a report last September that fueled suspicions of widespread voting by non-citizens. Entitled Alien Invasion in Virginia, it reported that a sampling of eight out of 133 Virginia jurisdictions discovered that more than 1,046 non-U.S. citizens had registered to vote in 133 Virginia voting jurisdictions, which may explain why Trump has promised to pay particular attention to that state.

Further, the report states that nearly 200 verified ballots were cast before they were removed from the rolls, each one likely a felony.

But is that a valid assumption?

Just because a ballot was cast that was invalid, which is a problem, doesnt necessarily mean there was a conspiracy to commit voter fraud, said Foley of Ohio State Universitys Moritz College of Law. Fraud is a pejorative term that implies intentional deception and manipulation, as opposed to there being mistakes in voter registration lists.

People can move from state to state all the time, forgetting to take their names off the voter rolls in the states they leave, he explained, but that doesnt mean they actually cast double ballots.

As I understand the latest allegations, somewhere between 3 to 5 million improper ballots were cast this past November nationwide, which Trump claims accounts for why Hillary Clinton won the popular vote, Foley said. Even if there were 3 to 5 million invalid votes nationwide, we cant jump to the conclusion that the election result was tainted, because we dont know who they voted for.

Foley doesnt believe non-citizen voting is the biggest concern ahead of the next presidential election in 2020.

He thinks taxpayer dollars would be better spent looking at the vulnerability of the electoral system to cyberattacks by malevolent actors.

Or trading in outdated, rickety, last-legged voting machines for something new, he said.
Two Florida ports have canceled plans to sign cooperation pacts with Communist-ruled Cuba after state Governor Rick Scott threatened to cancel their funding if they did business with the "Cuban dictatorship."

The news comes as Cuba watchers are looking closely for signs of how the United States' fragile detente with Cuba will fare under President Donald Trump.

Trump has threatened to scrap moves to normalize relations, one of former President Barack Obama's signature foreign policy initiatives, if he doesn't get "a better deal."

"Disappointed some [Florida ports} would enter into any agreement with Cuban dictatorship," Scott wrote on Twitter on Wednesday. "I will recommend restricting state funds for ports that work with Cuba in my budget.



Port authorities along the U.S. Southern coast are strong proponents of increased trade and travel with Cuba, and some have expressed interest in using Mariel, located on the northwest coast of the Caribbean island, as a transshipment hub.

The Ports of Everglades and Palm Beach had been planning to sign agreements with Cuba during the visit of a Cuban trade delegation this week but said they decided to withdraw the deals.

Port of Everglades spokeswoman Ellen Kennedy said this move would not impact trade with Cuba, which was conducted by tenants rather than the ports themselves.

One of Port Everglades' tenants, Crowley Maritime Corporation, has been exporting U.S.-made goods including poultry and medicine to Cuba since obtaining a license to do so from the Office of Foreign Asset Control in late 2001.

On Tuesday, Crowley also imported two containers of charcoal from Cuba, the first direct legal import from Cuba to the United States in more than half a century.

Kennedy said the memorandum of understanding had been designed to be a "good will gesture" to form a strong alliance with Cuban ports.

Cuba and the United States have restored diplomatic ties and signed various cooperation agreements since Obama agreed with Cuban President Raul Castro in December 2014 to work to normalize relations.

Obama, a Democrat, used executive orders to circumvent the longstanding U.S. trade embargo on Cuba and ease some restrictions on travel and business. The embargo can only be lifted by the U.S. Congress, which is controlled by Republicans.

Trump, who can reverse Obama's executive orders, has threatened to end the detente if Cuba does not make further political and other concessions, although he has not specified what these should be.
After Mexico's leader canceled a Washington visit over U.S. President Donald Trump's authorization this week to extend a border wall that he said would come at the southern neighbor's expense, the two heads of state are trying to mend fences.

Trump reported Friday that he and Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto spoke by phone for about an hour in the morning. "We had a very good call," Trump told reporters at an afternoon White House briefing with visiting British Prime Minister Theresa May.

A statement from the Mexican presidents office concurred, citing a constructive and productive conversation about the bilateral relationship between the two countries. The talk touched on the U.S. trade deficit and the need for collaboration to halt drug trafficking and the illegal flow of arms.

But the statement also noted both presidents acknowledged their clear and very public differences over the border wall, calling it a sensitive issue. It said that they agreed to resolve those differences through comprehensive discussion on all aspects of the bilateral relationship  and that related talks between their respective administrations would be private, not public, for now.

Pena, under political pressure to reject Trump's bidding, announced Thursday that he would not come for a scheduled visit Tuesday at the White House. The U.S. leader responded by tweeting that, unless Pena was prepared to talk money, he wasn't welcome.

Mexicans were furious over Trump's insistence that extending the wall, which many don't want, would come at their expense  whether in new tariffs on goods imported from Mexico or some other form. They saw it as continued hostility from Trump, who as a candidate characterized some Mexican immigrants as "rapists" or people "bringing drugs" and crime.

Mexican newspapers Friday reflected broad national indignation.

"Mexico is sick and tired of Trump's insults," read a headline in Guadalajara's Milenio newspaper.

"Unacceptable!" Mexico City's La Prenza said in a banner headline.

Mexico City's La Razon indicated newfound support for the country's president, whose approval rating had sunk to a record-low 12 percent in a recent Reforma poll because of fuel prices, among other things.

"The country closes ranks with Pena Nieto against Trump," La Razon wrote in a Friday headline.

Trump also drew the ire of Vicente Fox, who led Mexico from late 2000 through most of 2006. Interviewed Friday on the cable channel MSNBC, Fox called the new American president a "child."

A Twitter feed attributed to Vicente Fox Quesada included a Friday tweet with a twist on Trump's campaign slogan: "Amigos in the world, let's make twitter [sic] great again with #to2unidos for Mexico."

A tweet earlier Friday from Trump may have predated his call with Mexico's president. The U.S. president had tweeted: "Mexico has taken advantage of the U.S. for long enough. Massive trade deficits & little help on the very weak border must change, NOW!"
Bill Gates and Warren Buffett on Friday expressed optimism that the United States will move ahead as a nation, even as it works through political differences and gets used to the new Trump administration.

The world's two richest people were speaking to students at Columbia University after U.S. President Donald Trump started to unwind the work of his predecessor Barack Obama in a series of executive orders, prompting concern from critics over what the actions mean for Americans and their place in the world.

"I am confident that America will move ahead," Buffett said.

Gates, meanwhile, said the desire for innovation and support for research are "strong" and "largely bipartisan," despite differences on how to accomplish and fund both.

"This administration is new enough; we don't know how its budget priorities are going to come out," but there is much intensity to ensure that the executive branch and Congress encourage "amazing things," Gates said.

Gates co-founded and was the first chief executive of Microsoft, while Buffett runs the conglomerate Berkshire Hathaway.

Forbes magazine said on Friday that Gates is worth $85.2 billion and Buffett is worth $73.9 billion.

An estimated 1,300 people attended Friday's event to watch the close friends, who have known each other for a quarter century.

Gates is also a Berkshire director, while Buffett is donating much of his wealth to the charitable foundation set up by Gates and his wife, Melinda.

Both told students it is important to invest and focus on doing good works over the long term, despite the impulse or perceived need for shorter-term thinking.

Gates said this was particularly true in areas such as climate change and vaccinations, calling it just as important to be sure people can get vaccines as it is to develop them.

Buffett said: "It's very hard to have politicians think of something that's wonderful for the country 20 years from now" if the short-term impact might cost them reelection, with their decisions often tainted by too much money, which he called "bad news."

He also stressed the importance of immigration, a central issue for Trump, whom neither Buffett nor Gates discussed.

Buffett said the country has been "blessed" by immigrants, and might have come out quite different had the physicists Albert Einstein and Leo Szilard not in 1939 urged U.S. President Franklin Roosevelt to develop a nuclear program to counter threats from Nazi Germany.

"If it weren't for those two immigrants, who knows if we would be sitting in this room," Buffett said.
Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe was expected to arrive home Friday after his annual holiday in Asia.

Mugabe, one of the world's longest-serving heads of state, will head right into a fresh debate, both inside and outside his party, on whether it is time for him to step down.

No members of the media were invited to the airport to cover Mugabe's arrival late Friday.

It may not be the homecoming Mugabe expects.

Time for a change

I would simply say: President Mugabe, welcome, said Raymond Majongwe. You did a lot for this country. But I think for now, the time to go is now.

Majongwe is the head of the Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe. He is one of the thousands of civil servants still waiting on their year-end bonuses. The government has delayed their salaries repeatedly over the past year.

Majongwe said Mugabe's opulent holidays abroad are increasingly out of step with economic realities.

[We] are in a country that has no roads, no drugs; education is under trial, Majongwe said. Everything is not there; water drainage systems. It is just a catastrophe.

A year of protests

Zimbabwe has been dealing with a severe cash shortage, and the United Nations says as many as 5 million people still need food aid until March, when the harvesting starts.

Last year saw unprecedented protests in the capital over human rights and the economy. Veterans of the country's liberation war, a key source of support, left Mugabe's side.

This week, South African opposition leader Julius Malema even called for Mugabe to resign.

The president has also lost some support from within his own party as competition heats up over who will succeed him.

Birthday celebration in works

In an interview with VOA, a senior member of the ruling ZANU-PF, Kudzai Chipanga, dismissed the critics and said the party is planning festivities for Mugabe's 93rd birthday next month.

The celebrations are important to Zimbabweans, Chipanga said. Just like Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, because they look up to Jesus as our savior, but locally, we view our president R.G. Mugabe as our local savior, as our liberator.

Mugabe has ruled Zimbabwe since independence in 1980.

Before the president left for vacation in December, he accepted his party's nomination to run for another term in the 2018 elections.
It is 29 September 2006, and the US Senate is voting on the bill Secure Fence Act introduced by the republic administration of George W Bush. The [bill] provides for the building of 1,100 km of physical fencing, at the Mexican border, which will be heavily guarded to prevent the illegal entry of Mexican workers. Of the two Democratic senators representing Illinois, one, Richard Durbin, votes No; while the other one votes Yes. And the name of the other one? [No other than] Barack Obama who two years later will be elected President of the United States. Among the 26 democrats that are vote Yes, thus enabling the bill to be passed as a law, the name of Hillary Clinton, the Senator of New York State jumps out. Two years later she will become the Secretary of State in the Obama Administration.

By 2006 Hillary Clinton is already well versed in anti-immigrant fencing, for she promoted these as First Lady. Indeed, it was Bill Clinton, a Democratic president that got construction underway in 1994. This is the precise time that NAFTA, the North American Free Trade agreement between United States, Canada and Mexico enters into force. An agreement that opens the doors to free movement of capital and capitalists, yet at the same time bars Mexican workers from entering the United States and Canada.

NAFTA is rippling devastation in Mexico: Mexicos market is swamped with US and Canadian goods, the production of which is subsidized by the state, enabling them to be sold at low prices. This has caused agricultural production to collapse with devastating social effects for the rural population. This enables the formation of a pool of cheap labour, whose members are recruited by factories (maquiladoras): thousands of industrial plants along the border of the Mexican territory are owned and controlled largely by US companies. [Such companies], exploiting the tax loopholes, export to Mexico semi-finished goods or components to be assembled. The finished products are then imported back into the United States. Windfall profits are being made from these operations due to Mexican labour being very cheap and other [investment] incentives.

A substantial chunk of the factories workforce are girls and young women. The shifts are punishing to the extent of exhaustion, the harmful effects very high, the salaries very low and trade union rights virtually non-existent. Widespread poverty, drug trafficking, prostitution and uncontained criminality: all of this makes life in these areas extremely degrading. Just recall Ciudad Juarez, at the border with Texas, which, rather sadly, became famous for the countless homicides of young women, most of which are factory workers.

This is the reality behind the wall: initiated by Clinton the Democrat, followed up by Bush the Republican and reinforced by Obama the Democrat. The same one that Trump the Republican wants to complete along the entire 3000 km border. This explains why so many Mexicans are risking their lives (thousands have [already] died) to enter the United States. For here they can earn more, working illegally, squeezed by other exploiters. Crossing the border is like going to war, fleeing helicopters and drones, the barbed fencing, the armed patrols (many comprised of veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan), that are trained by soldiers in the techniques used in the theatres of war. Symbolic is the fact that, when constructing some sections of the fencing with Mexico in the nineties, the administration of Clinton the Democrat used the metallic platforms of the runways from which the planes used to bomb Iraq in the First Gulf War took off. [This war] was a product of the administration of George H.W. Bush, the Republican. Using materials from the subsequent wars, can we complete a bipartisan wall? Yes we can.
The delegations of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Russian Federation and the Republic of Turkey, in line with the Joint Statement of their Foreign Ministers made in Moscow, on December 20, 2016 and the UN Security Council resolution 2336;

Support launching the talks between the Government of the Syrian Arab Republic and the armed opposition groups in Astana on January 2324, 2017;

Appreciate the participation in and facilitation of the above-mentioned talks by the UN Secretary-General Special Envoy on Syria;

Reaffirm their commitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of the Syrian Arab Republic as a multi-ethnic, multi-religious, non-sectarian and democratic State, as confirmed by the UN Security Council;

Express their conviction that there is no military solution to the Syrian conflict and that it can only be solved through a political process based on the implementation of the UN Security Council resolution 2254 in its entirety;

Will seek, through concrete steps and using their influence over the parties, consolidation of the ceasefire regime established pursuant to the arrangements signed on December 29, 2016 and supported by the UN Security Council resolution 2336 (2016), contribution to minimizing violations, reducing violence, building confidence, ensuring unhindered humanitarian access swiftly and smoothly in line with the UN Security Council resolution 2165 (2014) and protection and free movement of civilians in Syria;

Decide to establish a trilateral mechanism to observe and ensure full compliance with the ceasefire, prevent any provocations and determine all modalities of the ceasefire;

Reiterate their determination to fight jointly against ISIL/DAESH and Al-Nusra and to separate from them armed opposition groups;

Express their conviction that there is an urgent necessity to step up efforts to jumpstart the negotiation process in accordance with the UN Security Council resolution 2254;

Emphasize that the International Meeting on Syria in Astana is an effective platform for a direct dialogue between the government and the opposition as required by the UN Security Council resolution 2254;

Support the willingness of the armed opposition groups to participate in the next round of negotiations to be held between the government and the opposition under the UN auspices in Geneva as of February 8, 2017;

Urge all members of the international community to support the political process with a view to swiftly implementing all steps agreed on the UN Security Council resolution 2254;

Decide to actively cooperate on the Astana platform on specific issues of the UN-facilitated Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political process so as to contribute to global efforts to implement the UN Security Council resolution 2254;

Express gratitude to the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, His Excellency Nursultan Nazarbayev, and to the Kazakh side in general, for hosting the International Meeting on Syria in Astana.
On January 27, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov received a delegation of the Syrian political opposition in Moscow, including representative of the Moscow Group Qadri Jamil, a leader of the Popular Front for Change and Liberation; Randa Kassis, representative of the Astana Group and Chair of the Movement for a Pluralistic Society; Cairo Group representatives Jihad Makdissi and Jamal Suleiman; Hasan Ismael Abdulazeem, General Coordinator of the National Coordination Body for Forces of Democratic Change and a member of the Higher Negotiations Committee; Hmeymim Group Chairman Ilian Masaad; representatives of the Syrian Kurdish Democratic Union Party and Kurdish Self-Government for Northern Syria Khaled Issa and Ali Abdessalyam; leader of the Building the Syrian State Party Louay Hussein; and leader of the Peoples Will Party Alya Arafat.

That same day, Special Presidential Representative for the Middle East and Africa and Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov held in-depth consultations with the Syrian opposition delegation.

Syrian opposition activists representing various political associations and factions were briefed on Russias assessment of the January 23-24 international meeting on Syria in Astana. At the same time, Mr Lavrov urged the partners to take an active part in launching a sustained negotiating process for a Syrian political settlement in Geneva, in cooperation with UN Secretary-Generals Special Envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura.

A new draft Syrian constitution, prepared jointly by Russian and Arab experts and distributed by the Russian delegation in Astana, was presented to the meeting participants.

Representatives of the Syrian domestic and external opposition praised Russias efforts toward resolving the Syrian crisis as quickly as possible through an inclusive intra-Syrian dialogue under the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, decisions of the International Syria Support Group and the Geneva communique of June 30, 2012.

The Syrian negotiators voiced their intention to establish working groups for constitutional issues and for establishing a consolidated opposition delegation at the upcoming round of intra-Syrian talks in Geneva under UN auspices.
Emmanuelle Riva. Photo: Tony Barson/FilmMagic

Emmanuelle Riva died Friday at the age of 89 after undergoing a lengthy cancer battle. The renowned French actress is perhaps best known to American audiences for her Oscar-nominated role in 2012s Amour. Riva grew up in rural France before moving to Paris as an adult to try her hand at acting. She found her first international success soon after with 1959s acclaimed Hiroshima Mon Amour. In the ensuing years, Riva worked with Frances rising new-wave directors, including Gillo Pontecorvo on Kapo, Jean-Pierre Melville on Leon Morin, Priest, and Georges Franju on Therese Desqueyroux. While Riva worked steadily in French film over the years, her engrossing return to global attention came with the crushing Amour. Her Academy Award nomination for the drama made her the oldest woman to ever receive a nod at the age of 85.
Matthew McConaughey and Anne Hathaway. Photo: Lester Cohen/WireImage

Matthew McConaughey and Anne Hathaway are in talks to put the ol Interstellar team back together again for Serenity. Per Deadline, the actors are negotiating to star in the film, described as a sexy noir, that is sadly not about a ragtag group of rebellious outcasts avoiding capture at the hands of an enemy regime by riding around on a spaceship. Instead, it centers around a fishing-boat captain (McConaughey can keep his preferred facial hair, good) whose past is about to crash up against his life on a small island in the Caribbean, ensnaring him in a new reality that might not be all it seems. Presumably the new reality still includes people, one of whom would be played by Hathaway. Nothings official yet, so talks now, Serenity later.
Photo: 2017 Getty Images

The film industry is already beginning to feel the effects of President Donald Trumps newly enacted Muslim ban to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the U.S., with the policy likely to affect acclaimed Iranian filmmaker Asghar Farhadi. As the director and writer of the Oscar-nominated drama The Salesman  which follows a couple whose relationship is greatly tested as they prep for a performance of Arthur Millers Death of a Salesman  Farhadi was due to appear at next months Oscars ceremony to celebrate his nomination for Best Foreign Language Film. But because of Trumps Muslim ban which bars Syrian refugees from entering the country for an undisclosed period of time and halts the issuing of visas to nationals from Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Sudan, Somalia, and Libya for three months  Farhadi wont be allowed entry to the country in order to attend the ceremony. Trita Parsi of the National Iranian American Council first reported the news, although it has yet to be confirmed by Farhadi himself. In 2012, Farhadi won Best Foreign Language Film at the Oscars for his film A Separation. It was the first time that an Iranian film achieved the honor.

Confirmed: Iran's Asghar Farhadi won't be let into the US to attend Oscar's. He's nominated for best foreign language film...#MuslimBan  Trita Parsi (@tparsi) January 28, 2017

Earlier this week, the star of The Salesman, Taraneh Alidoosti, announced she was boycotting the Oscars in response to Trumps Muslim ban. Trumps visa ban for Iranians is racist, she tweeted on Thursday. Whether this will include a cultural event or not, I wont attend the # AcademyAwards 2017 in protest.

Update, January 29: Farhadi has issued a statement confirming that he wont be attending the Oscars ceremony in the wake of Trumps Muslim ban. It now seems that the possibility of this presence is being accompanied by ifs and buts which are in no way acceptable to me even if exceptions were to be made for my trip, he explained. Hard-liners, despite their nationalities, political arguments and wars, regard and understand the world in very much the same way. In order to understand the world, they have no choice but to regard it via an us and them mentality, which they use to create a fearful image of them and inflict fear in the people of their own countries. You can read the rest of his thoughts here.


Things that interest me about the fourth season of Sleepy Hollow: Jake (#TeamJakeForever!) having a tween Witness in the form of Dianas daughter, seeing how that Witness might fare against Big Bads as she develops a rapport with Crane, and, of course, watching Tom Mison act.

Things I couldnt care less about: Dianas intransigence, sassypants Alex, and any attempt to re-litigate the first three seasons of Sleepy Hollow.

Thats why The People vs. Ichabod Crane was a meh episode for me. Too much from column B and very little from column A.

This week, we find out that when Crane got slapped in the face by black goo during last episodes cliffhanger, it was because the gang accidentally let a monster escape from the netherworld when they trapped the Headless Horseman in that J Street tunnel. This monster has apparently taken Crane back to a cave of despair in Maryland, where Revolutionary War soldiers were kept in cocoons so their souls could be tormented to the point that they wound up committing suicide. Fun times!

This setup takes Crane out of the episodes main story line, depositing him in a sort of dreamworld purgatory. How are souls tortured in this dreamworld purgatory? Why, by hauling them into court, of course! Seriously, what could be more dreadful? Crane is told hes been brought up on crimes of cowardice, thoughtlessness, and abdication of your sacred duties as a Witness. You stand charged with  murder. Whose murder, he wonders? Is it Abbie? Is it Abbies murder and does this mean we are getting a Nicole Beharie guest spot and oh my God is Nicole Beharie about to walk into the courtroom?? I know I just claimed Im not into re-litigating the first three seasons of SH, but this would be very different. An Abbie cameo would be pure nostalgic sunshine and a chance to see Misons aforementioned dramatic talents at their finest, as they always were whenever his rapport with Beharie was given center stage.

Alas, tis not meant to be. Its just Henry Parrish, a.k.a. Cranes whiny son, whos ostensibly here to prosecute Crane for Abbies murder. Really, hes just trying to guilt Crane into killing himself by reminding him of allies long gone, like Joe and Abraham Van Brunt and Katrina. (Erm, I think all of us, Crane included, had no problem with offing her.)

This is the kind of re-litigating I cant stand. All I have to say about it is  womp, womp. Seriously, who is interested in Henry Parrishs airing of grievances from two seasons ago? Moveon.org, people. Five major characters have been introduced this season! Theres nothing but potential there. Charm us! Woo us! Lure us in by exploring these new dynamics, forming new alliances, yada yada yada. Instead, we waste this weeks B story on Henry celebrating his own personal Festivus.

Meanwhile, Jenny attempts to find the cave of despair, which now shares real estate with an Army base. I did love the little damsel-in-distress routine she pulled when she got caught trespassing, the way her voice went up a half-octave and she delivered a spot-on performance of a ditz who couldnt find her boyfriend. When her gear falls out of her backpack and blows her cover, Jake and Alex (whod been tailing) call Diana for help. Even though Diana is still majorly steamed about the fact that her kids a Witness, she springs Jenny.

Quick question: Is Diana steamed about not being told? Or is she actually mad that her daughter is a Witness? Im finding her peevishness hard to decipher at this point, and I wish shed just get over it already. Be like Jake, Diana! Embrace the otherworldly insanity of it all!

Honestly, what bothered me most about this episode wasnt Dianas reluctance or even Henrys petulance. It was just all so boring. Im not interested in another father-son spat between Crane and Parrish, in large part because weve had plenty of them already and they werent all that fascinating the first time around. As Ive noted before (in fact, its probably my biggest, longest-running issue with the series), all the nerdy mumbo-jumbo is same old, same old  even though all those books and artifacts and scavenger hunts sometimes contain flashes of interesting story lines. This week, for example, I loved when Jenny and Diana went to that biker bar in search of their bomb-making chemical so they can blow up the ghouls holding Crane hostage. It was funny and it was lighthearted and it was surprising, especially the way Diana cleverly saved the day after she realized Jennys fixer was a former Marine.

Let me put it this way: Youll see below that I could only come up with one humorous exchange for my usual list of favorite Crane-isms, and it technically isnt one because Crane had nothing to do with it. There were no funnies this week, no LOLs! Even Jenny and Dianas Leatherballs? repartee was pretty meh.

Time to dwelling on the negatives and get to the third act. Alex and Jake take their usual underground-tunnel route to the Smithsonian storage unit, where they go to get their tenth-century bazooka or whatever. They wind up stumbling onto Malcolms demonic goon as he disintegrates a security guard, then steals a map of some weird energy ley lines. (Id like to think that Jeremy Daviess Lost character would have a lot to say about weird energy ley lines.) Moving on! (I think it was Jenny who actually said, Thats something were going to have to deal with tomorrow. Im inclined to agree.)

Anyway, they team up with Jenny and Diana to free Crane from his soul-tormenting cocoon. Although Crane is out, his soul remains adrift. To bring it and him back, Diana decides to call Molly  wait, she gets cell service in a cave?  and asks her to talk to Crane, presumably signaling that shes finally willing to accept her daughters fate.

We have much to discuss, Crane tells Diana after Molly brings him back. Unfortunately, Sleepy Hollow didnt give us much to discuss this week. But to quote Abbies words and Mollys voice: Dont ever give up hope.

Favorite (Almost) Crane-isms:
A groundbreaking ceremony took place Friday near downtown Waco for a new branch of TFNB Your Bank for Life, a McGregor-based financial institution that can date its founding to 1889. Pearson Construction will start work Feb. 15, spokesman Bage Anderson said.

Land clearing for the branch has proceeded for months near Interstate 35 in an area of heavy development that has seen the arrival of a Raising Canes Chicken Fingers, Panera Bread, and Freddys Frozen Custard and Steakburgers. Dozens of older homes and buildings have been torn down between South Ninth and South 11th streets, I-35 and Cleveland Avenue, where developers have divulged plans to place at least two hotels, a sit-down restaurant and a commercial strip for retail and food shops.

This activity caught the eye of TFNB, which will open its new full-service branch in late 2017 or early 2018, Anderson said.

Retailer cuts

Wal-Mart opened a new 154,000-square-foot store last week at Sun Valley Boulevard and Interstate 35, creating excitement for Hewitt and Greater Waco.

But it was early in 2016 that the nations largest retailer announced it was closing 269 stores worldwide, including many of its Express locations.

More retailers this year are announcing steps to improve their bottom line, including the shuttering of stores not performing to expectations.

Sears Holdings recently said it will close 78 Kmart stores and 26 Sears stores in 2017, a move on the heels of last years decision to scuttle 30 Kmart and 16 Sears locations.

Meanwhile, J.C. Penney said the iconic chain is evaluating its 1,000 stores nationwide with an eye toward cuts, according to published reports. Macys will do away with 68 locations, and CVS Pharmacy will reduce its inventory by 70, which is a modest reduction considering it operates 9,600 stores.

Fortunately, Greater Waco is being spared the ax, with no local stores so far appearing on hit lists the affected retailers are circulating.

Waco Tours

Waco Tours, which hosts about 100 guests a week on van tours around Waco, is offering local businesses the chance to place items in the bags it gives away to customers.

These bags are typically filled with tourist information, eating and shopping coupons, magnets, candy, pins and promotions for buy-one-get-one items.

Spokeswoman Melinda Seibert said the company invites business owners to send professionally printed discount coupons to include in the giveaway.

We will take care of stuffing the bags and initially need a supply of 500 coupons or items that you want included, Seibert said in a statement.

Seibert said anyone wanting to have items placed in the bags should contact her at melinda@waco-tours.com.

She said examples of the products can be mailed to Waco Tours, 1413 Oak Hollow Drive, Waco, Texas 76712.

VA medical director

Christopher R. Sandles, who started his health-care career in 2002 at Covenant Health System in Lubbock, has been appointed the new medical director of the Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, which consists of hospitals in Temple and Waco and several outpatient clinics and other facilities.

We are excited to bring Mr. Sandles on board as the new medical center director of the Central Texas Veterans Health Care System, interim director Michael L. Kiefer said in a press release. His sound leadership qualities and proven experience will be valuable assets for the health care system, the employees, volunteers and most importantly, for the veterans we are honored to serve.

Sandles will start in the new position Feb. 19.

He has been the associate director and chief operating officer of the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston since April 2014. He has also been assistant director of the VA Greater Los Angeles Health Care System, chief of health administration services at the VA Loma Linda Health Care System and assistant chief of medical administration at the VA North Texas Health Care System, according to the press release.

Sandles has masters degrees in business and health care administration from Texas Tech University.
The Waco Mammoth National Monument is feeling the chill from President Donald Trumps federal hiring freeze.

The excavation site, which became part of the national park system in 2015, has been conducting interviews for its first permanent park ranger, site manager Raegan King said.

Trumps executive order this week puts a 90-day moratorium on hiring federal employees, with some exceptions for military and public safety hires.

The National Park Service has been bringing in park rangers from other sites to fill four federal positions at the Waco attraction, where they work alongside city of Waco staff. Currently, only three of those positions are staffed.

King, a city employee, said interviews will continue in hopes of making a hire in the next few months.

She said the ranger position is important to help handle growing crowds at the site, 6220 Steinbeck Bend Drive. In 2016, its first full year as a national monument, the site expanded its hours to seven days a week and tripled its annual attendance to 66,000. The site has booked groups as large as 500.

The extra employees make handling our large crowds easier, King said. It allows us to give visiting groups individualized attention. If were short-staffed, we have to be more generic in our tours. . . . We want people to have the full park ranger experience.

King said the ranger position would pay between $49,700 and $64,000, depending on experience.

Suzanne Dixon, a regional director of the nonprofit National Parks Conservation Association, said she worries about the impact of the hiring freeze throughout the national parks system. Normally, the National Park Service would be preparing to hire about 8,000 seasonal workers, but thats on hold for now.

Were concerned that the NPS is already understaffed in caring for resources and greeting visitors, Dixon said.

Dixons association helped Waco officials apply to President Barack Obama for an executive order under the Antiquities Act that incorporates the mammoth site into the national park system.

She said the mammoth site is an ideal example of the kind of cultural resource the Antiquities Act was created to protect.

Now that it is preserved, the education component for families and children is incredible, she said.

But Dixon said she is concerned Trump may attempt to undo some of Obamas executive orders under the act. No president has ever abolished a national park designation of his predecessor, and a 1938 attorney general opinion states a president doesnt have such power.

However, the Washington Post reported Friday that Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, met with Trump on Thursday and urged him to undo Obamas federal designation for Bears Ears, a 1.4-million-acre Pueblo cultural site in Utah.

Wacos Congressman, Bill Flores, told the Tribune-Herald on Friday that he considers the Waco Mammoth National Monument a unique scientific discovery of national significance that is run in a partnership that minimizes the use of federal tax dollars.

I will work with the Trump administration to ensure the current national monument designation remains intact, and I am confident that they will recognize its national significance, Flores said in a statement. It is crucial that the site remain a national monument so this great asset to our community is protected and promoted for current and future generations.
As usual in their annual January event, local polar bears didnt have to smash any ice to take a plunge, but all who offered their perspective confessed to being a bit chilly.

According to Special Olympics Heart of Texas Area director Tommy Smith, the water temperature and air temperature were 58 degrees at the Waco Family YMCA at 11 a.m. Saturday as the annual Polar Plunge fundraiser started. The sun, facing no competition from clouds, had started warming the land nicely, but chilly breezes still raised goose bumps where the divers costumes left bare skin exposed.

The area Special Olympics organization moved its major fundraiser back to the YMCA from Hawaiian Falls for the fourth annual event this year because of maintenance work at Hawaiian Falls, Smith said. The first plunge was held at the YMCA.

Proceeds came from $60 entry fees for adults and $30 for children. Participants could also solicit sponsors to boost their totals.

This year, 32 people entered, compared with 27 last year. The number this year included a team dubbed Kacie and the Lug Nuts from Freddie Kishs Complete Car Care Center; Snow White and the 7 Dwarfs from iHeartRadio 102.5 The Bear; and a team from Aces Bar & Grill that won the prize for team fundraising with $1,827.

Some team members were employees, and others were friends and customers. Some team members and people who signed up individually have family members in Special Olympics. Many first-time participants heard of the event by word-of-mouth.

$4,000 expected

Proceeds are expected to approach $4,000 when a count is finished early next week, Smith said.

As in previous years, Knights of Columbus Council 13005 of Woodway grilled hamburgers on the scene to help warm the icy divers after their plunge.

Among the solo entries was David Murphy of the Texas Department of Public Safety, who has participated for several years. He was promoted to sergeant and transferred to Burnet since the last plunge. In past years, he was instrumental in recruiting other local troopers.

Murphy was the top individual fundraiser last year with more than $300.

I wouldnt miss this if I can get back at all, he said. I still have a lot of ties in Waco, and my family is still here.

Debra Smith was the top individual fundraiser this year with $800.

Woodrow Butch Huldreth took top costume honors, and Wesley Perry took second. Judges awarded the third-place prize to the entire iHeartRadio team.

Perry, dressed as a rubber duckie, jumped in with his daughter, Hailee, and son, Kade, a Special Olympics member and mascot at Midway High School.

I try to help this organization any way I can, he said.

The teams jumped together, and individuals dived one by one into the 6-foot-deep end of the pool.

Special Olympics Heart of Texas provides more than 1,000 intellectually disabled children and adults in the area the opportunity to train and participate in Olympic-type sports, according to a press release for the Polar Plunge.
Trib opinion editor Bill Whitakers Christmas column Time to reconcile science, faith (Dec. 25, 2016) revisits a very old conversation that often becomes a debate about the Bible, Christianity, God and modern science. The question of how, or even if, to reconcile seemingly competitive views of the universe, nature or creation seems often to generate more heat than light.

I grew up in a fundamentalist church and home that regarded the natural sciences as enemies of faith; in Sunday School and then Bible college I was inoculated against science, especially geology and biology. During high school I heckled my biology teachers when they taught evolution.

To make a long story short, eventually I came to appreciate the natural sciences without surrendering my strong belief in the Bible as Gods inspired Word. During my student years in a moderate Baptist seminary very much like the one where I now teach, I encountered a gentler approach to science than my childhoods. And during my doctoral studies in Religious Studies at Rice University, a bastion of the hard, experimental sciences, I discovered that many scientists and theologians were finding common ground and reconciliation between their disciplines.

The great Christian scientist Galilei Galileo (1564-1642) wrote about this controversy in his 1615 Letter to the Grand Duchess Christina. Basically he said that the Bible is never mistaken but is often wrongly interpreted. When a material fact of science seems to contradict the Bible, its not the Bible thats wrong but the churchs and theologians interpretations of the Bible that must be reconsidered. Centuries later Protestant theologians such as Charles Hodge of Princeton Seminary, Emil Brunner of the University of Zurich and Bernard Ramm who taught at Baylor University said much the same.

However, at the same time, these world-class theologians argued that sometimes modern science needs to be purged of unscientific beliefs that make science seem hostile to religion. In his The Philosophy of Religion (1937) and other writings Brunner wrote that no fact of science can contradict true Christian faith, but that science infected with naturalism  belief that nature is all that is real  inevitably leads to conflict. Naturalism, however, is a philosophy and not science. In the laboratory and the field, the scientific researcher must use methodological naturalism such that he or she does not look for God there. However, no natural or other science can prove that nature is all there is.

Two terrible and unnecessary errors cause the science versus faith controversy. The first one is the import into science of philosophical naturalism; the second one is religions encroachments on sciences territory. Just as science cannot prove that nature is all there is, so religion, including Christianity, has no business pontificating about the how or the when of creation. There is some truth in the old saw that Science is about how the heavens go while religion is about how to go to heaven.

Christian philosopher Alvin Plantinga argues in Where the Conflict Really Lies: Science, Religion, and Naturalism (Oxford University Press, 2011) that naturalism, too often packaged with modern science in peoples minds, actually undermines science. Its an interesting argument too subtle to summarize here. Suffice it to say that Plantinga, an evangelical Christian, believes in evolution but not naturalism and sees the two as conflictual.

At the same time, and on the other hand, Plantinga and many evangelical Christian philosophers, scientists and theologians have argued cogently that the Bible nowhere actually contradicts any material fact of science. Brunner wrote that it is impossible that any essential position of Christian faith should be affected by changes in the scientific view of the world while at the same time decrying superstitious belief that science includes in itself all knowledge (and one might add all reality).

Many highly educated modern men and women have worked very hard at reconciling modern science with the Bible and Christian belief. Among them are my own recently deceased German Lutheran theologian Wolfhart Pannenberg (1928-2014), British Anglican priest, theologian and physicist John Polkinghorne (b. 1930) and Christian geneticist Francis Collins (b. 1950).

Most of the blame for the ongoing unnecessary conflict between science and faith can be laid at the feet of fundamentalist obscurantists who react in knee-jerk fashion against modern science and modern scientists who smuggle naturalism into their science and refuse to acknowledge that, to paraphrase Shakespeare, there are more things in heaven and on earth than are dreamed of in all their theories.

This column marks ever-insightful theologian Roger E. Olsons debut as a member of the Trib Board of Contributors. With a Ph.D. from Rice University, he is the Foy Valentine Professor of Christian Theology and Ethics at Baylors Truett Seminary and author of 19 books including the forthcoming Essentials of Christian Thought: Seeing Reality through the Biblical Story (Zondervan). We warmly welcome him to the board.
Not even a week into Donald Trumps presidency, some liberal internationalists find themselves privately pining for George W. Bush.

Despite acts of brutality that were perpetrated on his watch, Bush always insisted publicly that the United States did not torture. He understood that copping to the enhanced interrogation techniques he had secretly approved could undercut our moral standing on the world stage, provide terrorists a potent recruiting tool and give our enemies an excuse to torture Americans.

Trump doesnt think like that. I have spoken as recently as 24 hours ago with people at the highest level of intelligence, the new president told ABC News in an interview that aired Wednesday night, and I asked them the question, Does it work? Does torture work? and the answer was, Yes, absolutely. 

Explaining why he wants to reconsider the use of waterboarding, Trump added: Were not playing on an even field. . . . As far as Im concerned, we have to fight fire with fire.

Mike Pompeo was reportedly blindsided Wednesday when he found out about the draft order to consider reopening black sites and resuming waterboarding. During his recent confirmation hearing, the new CIA director promised senators that he would absolutely not resume waterboarding.

Trumps statement is also surprising because Jim Mattis, his new defense secretary, is an outspoken critic of the techniques usefulness. Ive always found, give me a pack of cigarettes and a couple of beers, and I do better with that than I do with torture, he has said.

Republican Sen. John McCain, who was tortured by the communists in Vietnam and has as much moral standing on this issue as anyone, promised to hold firm, tweeting:

[The president] can sign whatever executive orders he likes, but the law is the law  were not bringing back torture.

Yes, Bush invaded Iraq without sign-off from the United Nations Security Council. But he tried earnestly to get it. And he made a big deal about building a coalition of the willing.

Not only is Trump talking about taking the oil and eschewing multilateralism, but he is poised to propose a 40 percent reduction in voluntary U.S. support for the United Nations and other global bodies, according to a draft of a forthcoming order obtained by The Washington Post. A separate order would limit U.S. participation in some treaties.

Trumps new U.N. ambassador, Nikki Haley, has pledged to put U.S. interests first and use the leverage of disproportionate U.S. funding of the body. But the draft order would go much further, and with an apparent goal of slashing U.S. participation across a swath of U.N. agencies and activities to which the Trump administration objects on fiscal or ideological grounds, The Washington Posts Juliet Eilperin and Anne Gearan report. The draft order could reverse or roll back funding for . . . international peacekeeping missions and U.S. support for development work.

The new team at the State Department is separately conducting a review of all foreign aid doled out during Barack Obamas final months in office, including a controversial release of $220 million to Palestinians just hours before Trump assumed the presidency. The review involves dozens, if not hundreds, of foreign aid allocations, The Posts Carol Morello reports.

After the Sept. 11 attacks, Bush bent over backwards to say that Muslims were not the enemy. U.S. generals relentlessly made the case that we need Muslim allies to battle terrorism. Trump neither thinks nor talks this way.

The new White House has begun following through on the presidents promise to begin extreme vetting of would-be immigrants. This, Trump says, is to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America. Fridays order calls for a 120-day pause on refugee admissions and a 90-day halt to all entry from seven Muslim-majority countries while the administration reviews the admissions process.

Trumps move, while stopping short of a full Muslim ban (which would not survive a constitutional challenge in court), would nonetheless have been outside of mainstream Republican thought till very recently. As Mike Pence tweeted just 13 months ago: Calls to ban Muslims from entering the U.S. are offensive and unconstitutional.

Many nonpartisan experts say Trumps approach will weaken U.S. security.

Trump scoffs when asked whether his new immigration policies will stoke anger in the Muslim world and motivate Islamic State terrorists. Anger? Theres plenty of anger right now. How can you have more? Trump asked interviewer David Muir Wednesday night. The world is a mess. The world is as angry as it gets. What? You think this is gonna cause a little more anger? The world is an angry place!

A blanket ban would compromise this nations long-standing position as a sanctuary for desperate and innocent people, the Posts editorial board argued in response. As a backdoor way for Mr. Trump to partially make good on his proposed Muslim ban, it also would be an affront to this countrys status as an example of religious tolerance.

Bush made the promotion of democracy a central aim of U.S. foreign policy. Trump explicitly rejects this doctrine.

It is the right of all nations to put their own interests first, the new president said during his inaugural address last week. We do not seek to impose our way of life on anyone.

Bush, during his second inaugural, declared: It is the policy of the United States to seek and support the growth of democratic movements and institutions in every nation and culture, with the ultimate goal of ending tyranny in our world.

Irony alert: Wednesday was the sixth anniversary of the start of the Tahrir Square protests in Egypt  a fleeting moment where it looked as though the Muslim world was tilting toward Western values, Annie Linskey notes on the front page of the Boston Globe.

Bush had warm relations with Mexico. His first foreign trip, less than a month after taking office, was to San Cristobal for a bilateral sit-down with Vicente Fox. One of 43s deepest regrets remains his failure to achieve comprehensive immigration reform.

Trump is now publicly feuding with the president of Mexico over who will pay for the border wall.

Enrique Pena Nieto reiterated Wednesday night that his country will never pony up, under any circumstance. In a video released Wednesday night, Pena Nieto said Mexico offers but also demands respect. And said that the 50 Mexican consulates across the U.S. will turn into places to defend rights of Mexicans. Where a Mexican needs legal help, they will be there.

The Mexican president was scheduled to come to the White House next week for a bilateral meeting, but hes now canceled under heavy domestic political pressure. And on Thursday Trump said, if Mexico wont pay, maybe he shouldnt come. The two spoke for an hour by phone Friday and agreed  at least according to the Mexican side  not to discuss publicly any funding of the border wall.

James Hohmann is a national political correspondent for The Washington Post.
CAMP VERDE  A mountain lion cub clings to a tree high above ground, malnourished and frightened.

The cub is rescued, given a name, rehabilitated and moved to a new home at Out of Africa Wildlife Park, where caretakers work to soothe the trauma that still lingers months later.

Li:Bis journey is a story of what often happens to wildlife in Arizona that are unwillingly abandoned, left without mothers to teach them how to survive in the wild, destined for a life in captivity.

Discovering an orphan

Animal control workers found the female cub in April on the Tohono Oodham Reservation near Sells, perched in the branches of a tree where the body of her sibling, killed by dogs, lies on the ground. The tribe named the cub Li:Bi, (pronounced Libby), to reflect the spirit of the land, and turned her over to Arizona Game and Fish officials. The cub likely had been in the tree for several days: she only weighed 15 pounds, about half as much as a five- or six-month-old cub should weigh.

This kitten would have died without intervention, a spokeswoman for Arizona Game and Fish said at the time. Normally we wouldnt interfere with a mountain lion with kittens. In this case, we could tell from the weight of the kitten that was trapped that the mother was not in the picture.

The cubs new life began.

A veterinarian at the Arizona Game and Fish Department, Anne Justice-Allen, took the lead in the cubs care.

She was very thin and dehydrated, Justice-Allen said. She was so weak from her ordeal.

Li:Bi needed immediate medical attention.

After we assessed her we gave her fluids under the skin to correct her dehydration, Justice-Allen said. We drew some blood from her to see what kind of shape she was in physiologically to see if her kidneys had been damaged or if she had signs of infection. We took her temperature and listened to her heart and lungs.

Once we had recovered her from all of that, we woke her up and took her out into a large dog kennel, she said. Later in the day we started trying to feed her.

Justice-Allen passed the reins to Tegan Wolf after Li:Bis initial medical exam. As the animal care expert at Game and Fish, Wolf led the rehabilitation efforts. Her goal was simple and specific: My job was to keep her alive.

I was primary care for her, so I was in charge or making sure she ate, how much she ate, making sure she was gaining weight, any medical examinations she had to go through, and making sure she had a clean pen, Wolf said. Later, Wolf worked to get the cub more used to people.

The team had decided early Li:Bi would need a permanent home in captivity. Releasing her back into the wild would have endangered her and any people she encountered because, although still uncomfortable with people, she was becoming too familiar with humans.

We dont often have opportunities to place young lions like this, and once they are brought into captivity, they cannot be replaced back into the wild, Justice-Allen said. They very quickly become unafraid of people, and that is just too must of a risky situation.

After about a month at the states Adobe Mountain Wildlife Center, officials began discussing the cubs future.

She needed a sanctuary. State officials put in a call to Dean Harrison, owner and operator of the Out of Africa zoo and park.

Click on location points for more information.

Finding Li:Bi a new home

When the Arizona Game and Fish Department calls me, I know they have an issue that needs to be dealt with, Harrison said. Since 1986 we have been working with them and helping them with their crises in regards to not only the local animals found in Arizona, but also animals like lions and tigers and others from around the world that have come into the state.

(Wildlife collectors and people who want exotic pets, then find out that keeping a cougar is more complicated than keeping a cat, end up with state officials and zoos. Harrison said state wildlife officials have brought more than 30 animals to Out of Africa since 1986.)

Li:Bi arrived April 30 at the zoo and wildlife center, still skittish and wary of humans.

Li:Bi had already had one trauma, then she came across some dogs that killed her sibling, which gave her a second trauma, Harrison said. She was brought into captivity, which gave her a third trauma. Then she was moved here which essentially gave her a fourth trauma. So were working at a disadvantage with four traumas in a very young, tender life.

Harrison, speaking of Li:Bis journey, said he and his team approached her transition with care.

Taking care of an animal in her condition is somewhat like taking care of a child, Harrison said in October. The first thing in the morning is that you want to make sure the little one is OK. At this point she is only 11 months old, so she is still a cub.

He said Li:Bis physical health has radically improved since she arrived.

She probably weighs 65 pounds or something like that, Harrison said. We havent weighed her, because if we do that itll create a trauma. So whatever she weighs, she is much bigger than what she came in as.

But emotionally, the cougar is still a work in progress.

Coaxing a cougar cub to release fear

Li:Bis natural instincts for moonlit activity and daytime dormancy pose another challenge to her caretakers.

Cougars are nocturnal mammals, with the majority of their activity occurring at night, Harrison said. Li:Bi learned from her mother to fear humans and keep her distance, especially during daylight.

Cougars raised in captivity are adapted to a different schedule, with activity during the day and rest in the evening, Harrison said. The schedule makes it easier for the Out of Africa workers to interact with the animal.

The Out of Africa team is working to persuade Li:Bi to switch to daylight activity. For months, she has spent most of her time tucked in a dark corner of her pen.

Where we are right now is, she is still deciding if she is safe with us, particularly in the daytime, Harrison said.

Harrison said he and his team have spent several months working toward switching Li:Bis primal instincts from the defensive side, where there is fear, to what he describes as the offensive side, where there is love.

Everyday we come in with Li:Bi and sit with her, talk with her, let her know that she is safe, Harrison said. By using a soothing voice and slow movements, which are all revealing of our intent, after a while she gets a little better month by month.

The goal is to convince Li:Bi she lives in a safe environment with bountiful food, shelter and companionship, Harrison said.

What we would like to have happen is that we would like a couple more young cougars to come that are already familiar with and like people, he said. If that could be the case, Li:Bi could see them interacting with us.

Mountain lions living in captivity

Li:Bis story is not unusual. The Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center in Scottsdale houses seven mountain lions with different origins, personalities and behaviors.

Kim Carr, animal caretaker at the center, refers to two friendly mountain lions, Tocho and Giselle, who were pets before they came to the center. Unlike Li:Bi, who huddles in her enclosure, these cougars will come to the front of their cage when called and will take food keepers offer by tongs. (Friendly does not mean safe: Carr said she and other employees never go inside the enclosures with cougars).

Ash, another mountain lion, lived in the wild before losing his mother to a hunter, like Li:Bi. He learned to fear human interaction, and roamed at night.

Similarly to Li:Bi, he shies away from people, only recently emerging from his sanctuary to feed during daylight, Carr said. He was transferred to the center in 2011 from a California zoo.

Carr agrees with Harrisons belief that skittish mountain lions can be coaxed into interacting with people if their animals companions model the behavior.

Ash and the more people-familiar cougar Giselle share an enclosure. Carr believes Ashs observation of Giselles interactions with the conservation centers caretakers, relying on them for regular meals and shelter, slowly showed Ash how to override his natural instincts.

The more social animals definitely help the shyer animals come out of their shell, Carr said.
Two National Party MPs have racked up a combined bill of $200,000 chartering private flights to and from their electorates to attend sessions of Parliament in Canberra since the change of government.

Spending on jet hire to Canberra for sitting weeks is filed by the Finance Department under the little-known expense category of "special minister of state-approved" flights.

Federal Transport Minister Darren Chester is in favour of using existing rail network infrastructure. Credit:Jamila Toderas

NSW National Mark Coulton, who represents the sprawling north-western NSW electorate of Parkes and Darren Chester, whose Victorian seat of Gippsland is 10 times smaller, are the two MPs approved to charter flights for sitting weeks.

Department of Finance records show the pair have spent $198,000 between them since the Coalition took power in 2013.
One Nation has lost its third Queensland candidate since December, with party leader Pauline Hanson dumping the candidate for Mulgrave, in the state's far north, Peter Rogers.

Mr Rogers, 57, said he was "given the flick" on Friday evening via conference call with Ms Hanson, James Ashby and Steve Dickson, who defected from the LNP to One Nation on January 13.

The reason behind the dumping was a conspiracy-laden article which contained claims about a refugee Syrian toddler found lying dead on a Turkish beach and the Port Arthur massacre.

It said the toddler was still alive and the massacre in Tasmania 20 years ago, where 35 people were murdered, was a fabrication.
US President Donald Trump said he would have a "fantastic" relationship with UK Prime Minister Theresa May, promising to work closely on trade and defence as her country exits the European Union, but the two leaders differed over continuing sanctions against Russia.

Trump and May held a cordial, 18-minute news conference at the White House after a private meeting, the new president's first with a foreign leader since his inauguration last week.

Trump said that the so-called Brexit, under which the UK would impose immigration curbs and recraft its trade relationships, would be "a wonderful thing" for the UK

"People want to know who's coming into their country and they want to control their own trade and various things," Trump said. "When it irons out you're going to have your own identity and going to have the people you want in your country and going to be able to make free trade deals without someone watching you."
CHARLESTON -- Police report that an East St. Louis man was arrested for allegedly breaking and entering into the Real Deal Pawn and Gun shop, 227 State St.

Shayvon Trahan, 20, was arrested for the burglary, Friday, Charleston police report.

According to the Charleston police press release, officers responded at 6:39 a.m. Friday to a report of a burglary at the local pawn shop.

"Upon arriving, it was discovered the business had been broken into and items removed from within," the release states.

While investigating the report, police identified Trahan as the suspect, the report said. He was sent to the Coles County jail pending a court hearing.
The managing director of the International Monetary Fund urged global policymakers to stop inflation from becoming a runaway train at a time of extraordinary economic turmoil. The IMFs Kristalina Georgieva noted that the world economy has been hit by one shock after another  the coronavirus pandemic, Russias invasion of Ukraine and a resurgence of inflation. But reining in rising prices should take priority, she said. If we do not restore price stability, we will undermine prospects for growth, she said. The Federal Reserve and other central banks have been raising interest rates to tame inflation. Georgieva acknowledged that the higher borrowing costs would pinch economic growth, but she urged policymakers to show restraint in spending money to ease the pain.
MATTOON -- Heller, Holmes & Associates law has offered to match monetary donations to the fundraising campaign for construction of a new Mattoon Area PADS homeless shelter and soup kitchen.

PADS Executive Director Michael Stopka said the law firm will match donations of up to $50,000 that are made through the end of February to the Haven of Hope campaign. He said the matching offer will provide an opportunity for community members to double the value of their donations.

"We are hoping that this will put us close to our goal and allow us to break ground soon," Stopka said.

PADS operates its homeless shelter and soup kitchen out of a former doughnut shop building at 2017 Broadway Ave. The nonprofit group plans to relocate from this leased building to a new, larger facility that will be constructed on donated land at 1812 Western Ave.

Stopka said PADS' goal is to raise $400,000 to construct the new facility and approximately $100,000 more to equip and furnish this site. He said they believe that the matching offer, combined with donations that PADS has already received, will enable them to reach their fundraising goal.

"We are grateful for the outpouring of support we have received from the community. For everyone who has donated, we are grateful," Stopka said.

Brent Holmes of Heller, Holmes & Associates said a new shelter and soup kitchen is desperately needed by PADS to carry out its mission. Holmes said he and his law partner, Kent Heller, are offering to match donations as a way to help this nonprofit group make its goal a reality as soon as possible.

"It's only through the effort of people of goodwill in the community that this can become a reality," Holmes said of the Haven of Hope campaign.

Holmes said PADS is an advocate for community members who have become homeless due to hardships in their lives. He said the nonprofit group's temporary shelter, case management and day training services have given a hand up to many individuals and helped them become productive citizens.

Stopka said the matching offer in February will cover PADS' murder mystery theater fundraiser, featuring the Central Illinois Stage Co. (CISCO), on Feb. 25 at the Mattoon Moose Lodge. He said tickets will be $25 in advance and $35 at the door. The event will offer three hors d'oeuvre stations and a cash bar.

In addition, Stopka said PADS plans to hold its annual Trivia Night fundraiser on March 11 at the Salvation Army building.

Donations to the Haven of Hope campaign can be made by mailing Mattoon Area PADS, 2017 Broadway Ave., or going online to http://mattoonareapads.org/. PADS also can be contacted at 217-234-7237.
The following companies are subsidiares of Ashland: 565 Corporation, ASH GP INC., ASHLAND SPECIALTY CHEMICAL (SINGAPORE) PTE. LTD., ASHLAND SPECIALTY CHEMICALS (MALAYSIA) SDN.BHD, Adams Drive Totowa L.L.C., Alera Property Holdings LLC, Alera Technologies Inc., Alix Technologies LLC, Aloe Vemera S.P.R de R.L. de C.V., Ash B5 Limited, Ash GH One Inc., Ash GH Switzerland GmbH, Ash Global Holding Three GmbH, Ash Global Holdings Two B.V., Ash Junior Global Holding One LLC, Ash Junior Global Holding Two LLC, Ash Swiss Holding Two GmbH, Ashland (Australasia) Pty. Limited, Ashland (China) Holdings Co. Ltd., Ashland (Gibraltar) One Holding Inc., Ashland (Thailand) Co. Ltd, Ashland Argentina S.R.L., Ashland CZ s.r.o., Ashland Canada Corp./Corporation Ashland Canada, Ashland Canada Holdings B. V., Ashland Chemco Inc., Ashland Chemical De Mexico S.A. De C.V., Ashland Chemical Trading (Shanghai) Company Limited, Ashland Chemicals (Nanjing) Company Limited, Ashland Colombia S.A.S., Ashland Comercio de Especialidades Quimicas do Brasil Ltda., Ashland Eastern Markets LLC, Ashland Ethanol Inc., Ashland Finance Limited, Ashland Global Holdings Inc., Ashland India Private Limited, Ashland Industria de Ingredientes do Brasil Ltda., Ashland Industries Deutschland GmbH, Ashland Industries Europe GmbH, Ashland Industries Italia S.r.l., Ashland Industries Nederland B.V., Ashland Ingredients Poland Sp. z o.o., Ashland Italia S.r.l., Ashland Japan Ltd., Ashland LLC, Ashland Licensing and Intellectual Property LLC, Ashland Mexico Holdings One LLC, Ashland Mexico Holdings Two LLC, Ashland Nigeria Exploration Unlimited, Ashland Oil (Nigeria) Company Unlimited, Ashland Oil Inc., Ashland Pacific Pty. Ltd., Ashland Pharmachem International Holdings LLC, Ashland Services B. V., Ashland Services Mexico S.A. de C.V., Ashland Singapore Pte. Ltd., Ashland Spain Real Estate Holdings S.L., Ashland Specialties Austria GmbH, Ashland Specialties Belgium BVBA, Ashland Specialties France S.a.r.l., Ashland Specialties Hispania S.L., Ashland Specialties Ireland Limited, Ashland Specialties Sverige AB, Ashland Specialties UK Limited, Ashland Specialty Chemical Korea Co. Ltd., Ashland Specialty Ingredients G.P., Ashland-Alaskan Limited, Ashland-Plasticos De Portugal Lda., Ashmont Insurance Company Inc., Ashprop Two LLC, Avoca LLC, Avoele S.A. de C.V., Belleville Realty Corp., Blazer Properties LLC, Bluegrass Insurance Company Limited, CLTA LLC, CVG Capital III LLC, Carol Clifton Inc., Curtis Bay Insurance Co. Ltd, East Bay Realty Services Inc., Fospur, Hercofina, Hercules, Hercules Holding BV BVBA, Hercules Hydrocarbon Holdings Inc., Hercules International Limited LLC, Hercules Investment ApS, Hercules Investments Netherlands B.V., Hercules Islands Corporation, Hercules LLC, Hercules Paper Holdings Inc., Hercules Trading (Shanghai) Company Limited, ISP (Belgium) International N. V., ISP Alginates Inc., ISP Canada Corp., ISP Capital LLC, ISP Chemco LLC, ISP Chemical Products LLC, ISP Chemicals LLC, ISP Environmental Services Inc., ISP France Holding SARL, ISP France Marketing SARL, ISP Freetown Fine Chemicals Inc., ISP Freight Services N. V., ISP Global Operations (Barbados) Inc., ISP Global Technologies Deutschland Unterstutzungskasse GmbH, ISP Global Technologies Inc., ISP Global Technologies LLC, ISP HC Limited, ISP Holdings (U.K.) Ltd., ISP Hungary Holdings Limited Liability Company, ISP International Corp., ISP Investments LLC, ISP Lima LLC, ISP Luxembourg Canada S.a.r.l., ISP Management Company Inc., ISP Marl Holdings GmbH, ISP Microcaps (U.K.) Limited, ISP Pharma Systems LLC, ISP Real Estate Company Inc., ISP Singapore Holding LLC, ISP Technologies LLC, International Specialty Holdings LLC, International Specialty Products, International Specialty Products (India) Private Limited, International Specialty Products Funding Corporation, International Specialty Products Inc., Jiangmen Ashland Chemicals Company Limited, Nanjing Clear Environment Protection, Northwest Coatings, Oil Can Henrys, PT Ashland Asia, PT. Ashland Specialty Chemicals Indonesia, Pakistan Gum Industries (Private) Limited, Pharmachem Laboratories, Pharmachem Laboratories LLC, Pharmachem Laboratories Utah LLC, Prince Street Paterson LLC, Progiven S.A.S., Proprietary Nutritionals LLC, Ralop S. de R.L. de C.V., Schulke & Mayr - Personal Care Business, Shanghai Ashland Chemical Technology Development Co. Ltd., St Croix Petrochemical Corp, Taiwan Ashland Co. Ltd., Techwax Limited, Vemera S. de R.L. de C.V., Vornia, and WSP LLC.

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Team, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, provides asset performance assurance and optimization solutions in the United States, Canada, Europe, and internationally. It operates through Inspection and Heat Treating (IHT), Mechanical Services (MS), and Quest Integrity segments. The IHT segment offers non-destructive evaluation and testing, radiographic testing, ultrasonic testing, magnetic particle inspection, liquid penetrant inspection, positive material identification, electromagnetic testing, alternating current field measurement, and eddy current testing services. This segment also provides long-range guided ultrasonic testing, phased array ultrasonic testing, terminals and storage inspection and management program, rope access, mechanical and pipeline integrity, heat treating, and robotics and inspection services. The MS segment offers engineered composite repair, emissions control/compliance, hot tapping, valve insertion, field machining, bolted joint integrity, vapor barrier plug and weld testing, and valve management services, as well as leak repair services for pipes, valves, and flanges, as well as other parts of piping systems, pipelines, and related assets. The Quest Integrity segment provides furnace tube inspection system-enabled, in-line inspection, pipeline integrity management, engineering and condition assessment, and robotics and inspection services. It also offers onstream services comprising of line stopping and on-line valve insertion solutions. The company serves refining, power, renewables, nuclear, liquefied natural gas, chemical, petrochemical, pulp and paper, automotive, mining, valves, terminals and storage, pipeline, offshore oil and gas, and aerospace and defense industries, as well as amusement parks, bridges, ports, construction and buildings, roads, dams, and railways. Team, Inc. was founded in 1973 and is headquartered in Sugar Land, Texas.
Vermilion Energy Inc., together with its subsidiaries, engages in the acquisition, exploration, development, and production of petroleum and natural gas in North America, Europe, and Australia. The company owns 81% working interest in 636,714 net acres of developed land and 85% working interest in 301,026 net acres of undeveloped land in Canada; 130,715 net acres of land in the Powder River basin in the United States; 96% working interest in 248,873 net acres of developed land and 86% working interest in 134,160 net acres of undeveloped land in the Aquitaine and Paris Basins in France; 53% working interest in 901,791 net acres of land in the Netherlands; 54,625 net developed acres and 920,723 net undeveloped acres in Germany; 975,375 net acres land in Croatia; 946,666 net acres land in Hungary; and 48,954 net acres land in Slovakia. It also owns 20% interests in the offshore Corrib natural gas field located to the northwest coast of Ireland; and 100% working interest in the Wandoo offshore oil field and related production facilities that covers 59,553 acres located on Western Australia's northwest shelf. As of December 31, 2021, the company had 401 net producing conventional natural gas wells and 2,132 net producing light and medium crude oil wells in Canada; 167.6 net producing light and medium crude oil wells in the United States; 297.0 net producing light and medium crude oil wells and 3 net producing conventional natural gas wells in France; and 47 net producing natural gas wells in the Netherlands. Vermilion Energy Inc. was founded in 1994 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada.
The cold of winter is a great time to think of some of the good work that is done in our communities.

The Charleston (tonight) and Mattoon (next Saturday) chambers of commerce each will honor outstanding members of the community.

And, through Feb. 13, the JG-TC is again soliciting nominations for the Jefferson Awards for Public Service.

For the past 13 years, many of you have helped us recognize deserving people in our communities for their work in public service. In the first 13 years of the local Jefferson Awards, more than 75 people have been honored.

Winners come from a variety of backgrounds. Were looking for nominations of people who perform wonderful deeds that benefit or serve others, without seeking the spotlight.

We're looking for people who have done things to help create the quality of life we enjoy. In some cases, it's people giving of their time and talent. In others, it may be someone promoting a cause that has substantial public benefit.

As examples, in 2004, the first year of the local recognition, the five people who were chosen from our area included a cardiologist who donated his time to read heart tests of high school athletes to prevent potentially life-threatening issues, a woman who campaigned for a state law to screen certain birth disorders after the loss of her child, a 7-year-old girl inspired by her grandmother to raise money for cancer research, a Boy Scout leader for more than 40 years and a man who was a prolific writer and a volunteer with Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site.

We especially encourage the nomination of young people in our communities as a way to recognize their interest in helping others.

One of last years Jefferson Award recipients was Skyler James, a college student who has used her own birth story to raise awareness of safe havens where new mothers can safely leave their infants so tragedies dont happen. She later received special recognition at the Jefferson Awards National Ceremony in Washington, D.C.

Past local winners also have worked with the environment, the homeless, supplying food to the needy, the arts, Habitat for Humanity, the schools, youth sports, veterans and in a number of other ways.

We are proud to sponsor the Jefferson Awards for Public Service along with Consolidated Communications and First Mid-Illinois Bank & Trust.

The Jefferson Awards for Public Service is a national organization. The goal is to inspire action while celebrating those working for the betterment of our communities.

Nominations will be accepted until 5 p.m. Feb. 13 and may be mailed to The Jefferson Awards, 700 Broadway Ave. East, Suite 9A, Mattoon, IL 61938.

We look forward to a 14th year of recognizing some special people in the area.

-- JG-TC Editorial Board
Storytelling Festival Celebrates 21st Year at WSU

January 27, 2017

OGDEN, Utah  Talented storytellers will gather to tell their tales at Weber State Universitys 21st annual Storytelling Festival, Feb. 27 to March 1. The award-winning event will include the performances of national, local and student storytellers and an art exhibit.

Antonio Sacre

This years festival will feature nationally renowned storytellers Omar and Lori Hansen, Antonio Sacre, Kim Weitkamp, Bil Lepp and Sam Payne. All the tellers bring their own style to their performances, some incorporating music, personal experience and humor.

Weber State's Storytelling Festival grows a little more each year, said DeeDee Mower, festival chair and teacher education assistant professor. The highlights of the festival are always the national storytellers, whose experience and lively expressions entertain audiences of all ages.

More than 12,000 children attend the Storytelling Festival and hundreds prepare and tell stories in their school districts, making it the largest youth storytelling festival of its kind in the country. In addition, 60-70 students are chosen as storytellers to share the stage with regionally and nationally recognized professional storytellers.

New this year, the Storytelling Festival will include paintings that were originally commissioned 41 years ago for Utahs bicentennial. The artwork has been in storage for several years, but will find a new temporary home at WSU for several days.

Fifteen paintings will be on display in the atrium lobby of the Kimball Visual Arts Center Feb. 3 from 5-9 p.m. and Feb. 4 from noon-5 p.m. Twenty paintings accompanied by video presentations will be on display in the Shepherd Union Ballroom B, Feb. 13 from 8:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. and Feb. 14 from 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

WSU will host several performances and events during the festival. All of the events are free with the exception of the Feb. 28 fundraising dinner.

Feb. 27, noon  A story slam workshop with Bill Wight will be held in the Shepherd Union Wildcat Theater.

Feb. 28, noon  Students and community members can share their own stories during a story slam open-mic event in the Shepherd Union Wildcat Theater.

Feb. 28, 1:30 p.m.  Storytellers Kim Weitkamp and Bil Lepp will share secrets to crafting the perfect story during a story symposium in the Shepherd Union Wildcat Theater.

Feb. 28, 6:30 p.m.  A Storytelling Festival fundraising dinner at Timbermine Steakhouse will include storytellers Antonio Sacre, Sam Payne, Bil Lepp and Kim Weitkamp. To reserve a spot, call 801-626-7515.

March 1, 1:30 p.m.  Storyteller Bil Lepp will perform at Weber State University Davis Building 3.

Several other events will be held throughout the week, including a Spanish session featuring storytellers Karl Behling and Antonio Sacre in the Ogden Eccles Conference Center Ballroom BC, Feb. 28 at 9 a.m. Other storytelling events will be held in multiple locations in the Ogden area, including Peerys Egyptian Theater, the Davis Conference Center and the Treehouse Museum.

For a complete list of festival events, visit weber.edu/storytelling.

Visit weber.edu/wsutoday for more news about Weber State University.
Henry Louis (H.L.) Mencken was perhaps America's most outspoken defender of liberty in the first half of the 20th Century. And a major theme of his writings was that "Every decent man is ashamed of the government he lives under."

It is worth remembering some of the reasons he gave for that shame, since, by the same standards, the government is even more shameful today than when Mencken wrote.

The basis justifying shame in our government lies in the appropriate role of government:

"The ideal government of all reflective men, from Aristotle onward, is one which lets the individual alone-one which barely escapes being no government at all."

"Good government is that which delivers the citizen from being done out of his life and property too arbitrarily and violently-one that relieves him sufficiently from the barbaric business of guarding them to enable him to engage in gentler, more dignified, and more agreeable undertakings..."

The problem is that our government has rushed in a torrent beyond those proper bounds:

"Law and its instrument, government, are necessary to the peace and safety of all of us, but all of us, unless we live the lives of mud turtles, frequently find them arrayed against us..."

H.L. Mencken

As our government has overflowed its proper and Constitutional banks, it has increasingly turned to tasks it cannot do well, if at all, and attracted many who are willing to not only overlook, but compound its failings, if only they can take the reins of power. And this leads to no end of shameful behavior:

"All government is, in its essence, organized exploitation, and in virtually all of its existing forms it is the implacable enemy of every industrious and well-disposed man."

"Every election is a sort of advance auction of stolen goods."

"The storm center of lawlessness in every American State is the State Capitol. It is there that the worst crimes are committed; it is there that lawbreaking attains to the estate and dignity of a learned profession; it is there that contempt for the laws is engendered, fostered, and spread broadcast."

"Of government, at least in democratic states, it may be said briefly that it is an agency engaged wholesale, and as a matter of solemn duty, in the performance of acts which all self-respecting individuals refrain from as a matter of common decency."

"A professional politician is a professionally dishonorable man. In order to get anywhere near high office he has to make so many compromises and submit to so many humiliations that he becomes indistinguishable from a streetwalker."

"The theory behind representative government is that superior men-or at least men not inferior to the average in ability and integrity-are chosen to manage the public business, and that they carry on this work with reasonable intelligence and honest. There is little support for that theory in known facts..."

"The government consists of a gang of men exactly like you and me. They have, taking one with another, no special talent for the business of government; they have only a talent for getting and holding office."

"The kind of man who wants the government to adopt and enforce his ideas is always the kind of man whose ideas are idiotic."

"The whole aim of practical politics is to keep the populace alarmed--and hence clamorous to be led to safety--by menacing it with an endless series of hobgoblins, all of them imaginary."

"[Government's] great contribution to human wisdom...is the discovery that the taxpayer has more than one pocket."

"It is the fundamental theory of all the more recent American law...that the average citizen is half-witted, and hence not to be trusted to either his own devices or his own thoughts."

"It is the invariable habit of bureaucracies, at all times and everywhere, to assume...that every citizen is a criminal. Their one apparent purpose, pursued with a relentless and furious diligence, is to convert the assumption into a fact. They hunt endlessly for proofs, and, when proofs are lacking, for mere suspicions."

"The true bureaucrat is a man of really remarkable talents. He writes a kind of English that is unknown elsewhere in the world, and an almost infinite capacity for forming complicated and unworkable rules."

"Government is actually the worst failure of civilized man. There has never been a really good one, and even those that are most tolerable are arbitrary, criminal, grasping, and unintelligent."

"The natural tendency of every government is to grow steadily worse-that is, to grow more satisfactory to those who constitute it and less satisfactory to those who support it."

Mencken received criticism for his attacks on government for its abuse of American liberties, and he was considered both radical and dangerous by some. But even for those accusations, he had a defense for his radical commitment to liberty, one which is worth remembering today:

"The notion that a radical is one who hates his country is naive and usually idiotic. He is, more likely, one who likes his country more than the rest of us, and is thus more disturbed than the rest of us when he sees it debauched. He is not a bad citizen turning to crime; he is a good citizen driven to despair."
by Sy Coolidge Pierre,M.D., President, Medical Association of the Bahamas

Dear Sir,

KPMGs claim that the implementation of the primary care phase of NHI will make the Bahamian economy almost $500 million bigger in 2040 can only be met with scorn and disbelief by right-thinking Bahamians. Their recently-presented report is full of unsubstantiated figures and misleading conclusions, and attempts to present health care in a vacuum, completely ignoring the issues plaguing us as a country today.

If KPMGs report is to be believed, NHI is the long-awaited panacea for much of what ails us as a nation. According to the report, among other things we can expect a larger economy, improved productivity, and a more skilled workforce. Very grand claims, but taking into account our economic, social and educational systems, it is difficult to understand how NHI will accomplish these.

The size of a nations economy is usually measured as Gross Domestic Product or GDP, defined as the monetary value of all finished goods and services produced within a countrys borders in a specific time period. We are told that the promised economic growth will result in an additional 5.1 per cent in total household consumption by 2040. Let us be clear: "household consumption" will not increase our output of goods and services, it will only sink us deeper into debt. This fallacy that consuming one's seed corn equates with an increase in GDP was shredded centuries ago by Adam Smith (The Wealth of Nations), Ludwig von Mises (The Austrian School of Economics) and others.

It is difficult to understand how a figure of $500 million dollars in total growth is arrived at when there has been no real discussion of the costs of the scheme, which will be implemented in multiple phases, with as-yet unidentified funding. We are told that the study predicts a return on the Governments investment, yet how can the returns be calculated on unknown expenditure? The introduction of NHI is more likely to reduce our GDP, due to a reduction in the private health insurance business, as many people will either drop the primary care portion of their health insurance under the assumption that it will be provided by NHI, or will be unable to afford private insurance period due to the increased tax.

In addition, the language of the report seems to be deliberately misleading on the concept of primary care. The KPMG report attempts to sell NHI by using emotive statements such as, Today, most Bahamians do not enjoy the security that comes with a meaningful right to healthcare. They must live with the fear of what might happen to them if a loved one becomes ill, including how they will pay for care. Very true: but what comes to most peoples minds here is catastrophic care, not primary care. And as yet, there has been little to no discussion about how and when, or even if catastrophic care will become a part of NHI. Primary care doesnt pay for surgery, or chemotherapy, or hospitalization. So if our streets are still violent, our youth at risk, our lifestyles still unhealthy, will we still be experiencing that $500 million growth in GDP?

The KPMG report must be addressing a Bahamas that exists in an alternate universe and not the one that we live in to make such broad, sweeping statements. Let me enlighten them on a few facts: the Bahamas has had at best a D average high school grade (functionally illiterate and innumerate) for more than a decade; has a murder rate that is ten times (1000%) higher than that in New York City; is suffering brain drain (especially in the medical field) at an enormous rate; imposes business taxes that are choking the life blood out of ordinary citizens, professionals and businesses; collects Value Added Taxes for which the Government has been unable to give (to many) a satisfactory account; has an increasing debt rate, four successive annual downgrade ratings by Standard and Poors and utility/communication/water bills that are amongst the highest in the world with some of the worst service in the world. KPMG and its consultant partners are making the mistake of looking at healthcare in a vacuum. I will say this again: the only way to provide universal healthcare is to have universal employment consisting of well-paying, meaningful jobs, a proper educational system and the rule of law.

Surely, if the immediate implementation of NHI will so positively affect our health, skills, productivity and GDP growth  to the tune of $500 million  then there should be no need for any type of NHI tax. However, if KPMGs assessment is incorrect will they pledge to pick up the tab for any NHI taxation?

All that Bahamians are asking for is frankness and honesty on the part of KPMG and its partners, seeing that we are paying millions of our hard-earned dollars for their expert opinion.

Regards,

Sy Coolidge Pierre,M.D.

President, Medical Association of the Bahamas

The views expressed are those of the author, and not necessarily those of the WeblogBahamas (which has no corporate view).
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By WestKyStar

Jan. 21, 2017 | PADUCAH, KY

By WestKyStar Jan. 21, 2017 | 05:59 PM | PADUCAH, KY

Friends of the Library's winter used book sale opens today at 9 am. It's "Bag Day" Saturday. The remaining books are sold for $5 per grocery sack which is provided by the Friends.



The sale collection includes more than 20,000 books sorted by subject, a collection of local and special interest books, and hundreds of media titles sorted by format.



Once again, Paducah's St Paul Lutheran Church Gym is the site of this annual fundraising event. The sale hours today are 9 am - 1 pm.



Most of the hardback books and trade edition paperback books are offered at $1 each. Most of the other paperback books are sold for 50 cents each. The media materials are individually priced. The special interest and collector titles are offered at prices well below market value.



Each book sale collection is new. At the close of each sale, the remaining materials are distributed to other organizations.



Cash, checks, and now credit cards are accepted for charges of $10.00 or more.



Proceeds from the Friends of the McCracken County Public Library's book sales are donated to the library to enhance the collections and services.



Since the first summer book sale twenty-four years ago, the Friends of the Library have contributed more than $350,000 to the library.



For more book sale information, call Paula Franklin at 270-331-3970.
By West Kentucky Star Staff Jan. 27, 2017 | 06:33 PM | PADUCAH, KY

Some area animal shelters have made lists of the best and worst in the state, according to a new study.In the first comprehensive study of conditions and compliance with state shelter laws in over two decades, researchers at the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environments Department of Veterinary Science said McCracken and Hopkins counties made their list of the 18 best shelters.Researchers determined these shelters appear to be doing a good job of meeting state requirements and providing other essential services such as adoption, spay/neuter programs and basic veterinary care to incoming animals.On the other side of the spectrum, a list of 26 shelters that need the most help includes Ballard, Caldwell, Crittenden, Fulton, and Carlisle counties.Researchers found and visited 92 shelters serving Kentucky's 120 counties, and found that lack of sufficient funding was the biggest problem identified by most shelter workers. Other significant problems were pet overpopulation leading to overcrowding at shelters, insufficient work force and a lack of education.Many shelter workers said they just dont have proper training in proper animal handling, sanitation and disease control. Without funding, its hard to provide that training.Researchers recommended that more free education be provided. This would give county officials and volunteers access to resources they need to do their jobs and to protect the animals and people who care for them.After the last study of Kentucky shelters, the Humane Shelter Act required all counties to come into compliance with new statutes by 2007, but no formal follow-up studies had tested that progress.The study documented what is being done at successful animal control programs so this information can be shared with other counties, particularly those with similar population and financial demographics.The full report is available online at http://www2.ca.uky.edu/agcomm/pubs/misc/2016_KY_shelter_study_report.pdf.

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By West Kentucky Star Staff Jan. 27, 2017 | 11:14 AM | SALEM, KY









UPDATE: The Livingston County Sheriff's Office says 35-year-old Brian Cowen was arrested Friday in the community of Burna. He was arrested without incident and was charged for his role in the January 16 home invasion robbery on Eveylyn Street in Salem.The Sheriff's Department expressed gratitude to citizens who called, texted or messaged them with information and possible leads in the investigation.Original Story;Livingston County Sheriff's Deputies are requesting the public's assistance in finding another person believed to have been involved in a home-invasion robbery in Salem on Jan. 16.Police say anyone with information about the whereabouts of 35-year-old Brian Cowen of Smithland is encouraged to contact the Livingston County Sheriff's Office at 270-928-2122 or the Kentucky State Police at 1-800-222-5555. They are still looking for 20-year-old Andrew Bryan, and say he may be in the Knoxville, TN area.An 18-year-old female suspect was interviewed last week while in jail in Tennessee, a 39-year-old woman was arrested Tuesday in the community of Hampton, and 19-year-old Levi Brennan was captured Thursday morning in Guntersville, Alabama.Detectives started investigating January 16 after the victim freed herself and called for help. She said she was tied up and assaulted as several people took items from her home in Salem.
By West Kentucky Star Staff Jan. 26, 2017 | 10:19 AM | MURRAY, KY

Presented by Leadership Women of Dallas, Texas, the event includes keynote breakfast speaker Linda Crompton, President and CEO of Leadership Women and an international thought leader with a passion for helping women advance personally, financially and professionally. Crompton began her career in the Canadian banking industry in 1987 and in less than ten years, became Canadas first female bank president.







Featured speakers also include Murray State alumna Trisha Cunningham, who recently retired as the chief citizenship officer at Texas Instruments, where she was responsible for growing the organizations reputation and influence with global communities, employees, customers and investors. Cunningham currently serves as treasurer for the Leadership Women board of directors.





Laura Douglas, who currently serves as Vice Chair of the Committee on Water for the American Bar Associations Section of Public Utility, Communications, and Transportation Law, will speak to attendees about taking risks as a leader.





Event speakers also include Sylvia Lovely, Dr. Cate Loes as well as a panel discussion facilitated by Lana Porter, board chair of Leadership Women and Murray State alumna. Other specific topics to be covered during the event include working in a multi-generational workplace, defining work-life balance and leadership development.





The Leadership Launch Womens Conference will be an excellent opportunity to hear from respected experts and presenters who have succeeded in leadership roles, said Laura Logan of Leadership Women. The insight gained from this event will be a fantastic resource for attendees to develop essential leadership skills.





Were very excited to once again be offering this great event for women throughout the region, said Carol Brunn, Murray State Town & Gown coordinator. This year, were incorporating our Town & Gown breakfast and the annual Celebrate Women Luncheon. These two events will bring together leaders from throughout the region in celebration of our next generation of community leaders.





The Leadership Launch Womens Conference is sponsored by Murray State University, Murray State Town & Gown Partnership, Murray State Womens Center, Murray-Calloway County Chamber of Commerce, Murray Womens Club and LG&E - KU.





For more information, contact Carol Brunn at 270-809-3023 or cbrunn@murraystate.edu. Speakers and events are subject to change.

Murray State University will host the Leadership Launch Womens Conference on Wednesday, Feb. 22 at the Curris Center from 7:30 am until 4:30 pm.The conference is a one-day program of information and inspiration for women who are looking to develop leadership skills in their businesses, families, communities, and the public sector.Registration is available online through Feb. 17 for the full-day program at leadership-women.org/programs/launch. The cost is $99 and includes all content, handouts and meals. There is also a $15 option that consists of the Celebrate Women Lunch, which takes place from 11:45 am until 12:30 pm.

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By The Associated Press

Jan. 27, 2017 | UNION CITY, TN

By The Associated Press Jan. 27, 2017 | 10:58 PM | UNION CITY, TN

State officials say Williams Sausage Co. plans to build a second plant in Union City, creating 226 new jobs over the next five years.



In a statement, Gov. Bill Haslam and state economic development commissioner Randy Boyd say Williams Sausage will invest about $37 million to build a 180,000-square-foot facility in Obion County. It will include a cold storage distribution center, truck maintenance operations, corporate offices and a sandwich processing line.



Williams Sausage was founded in 1958. The family-owned company makes sausage, bacon, sandwiches and other products for sale to retail grocers, restaurants, grocery warehouses and food distributors.



Officials say the company's existing plant has undergone several expansions and it is near capacity.



Union City Mayor Terry Hailey says the company "has long been a vital part of our community."



On their Facebook page, the company said, "Our hometown means so much to our family and we are grateful to continue to grow here."
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Award-winning actor John Hurt has died at the age of 77.

Hurt had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2015, but continued working. He was due to appear in Kenneth Branagh's production of The Entertainer as Archie Rice last year, but pulled out due to ill health.

Tributes have been made to Hurt by people including JK Rowling, Elton John, Mel Brooks, Stephen Fry and many more.

John Hurt and Mel Brooks

 Dan Wooller for WhatsOnStage

Hurt first began acting after gaining a scholarship to RADA in 1960. He worked in film almost immediately, and then began to work on stage.

It was in 1966 that he took a role in a film which pushed him a little into the spotlight. He played Richard Rich in A Man for All Seasons, a biopic of Thomas More, which won six Oscars. In 1975 he won a Bafta for his portrayal of Quentin Crisp, a man he had known briefly in his past, in a TV adaptation of The Naked Civil Servant.

Hurt's most recognised film roles include Ridley Scott's groundbreaking sci-fi film Alien, where he played Kane and starred in one of the most famous scenes in British horror after the alien bursts from his stomach.

He starred in David Lynch's black and white film The Elephant Man in 1980 where he played the historical figure of Joseph Merrick, a man with severe facial disfigurements. Hurt had to wear prosthetic make up, which took eight hours to apply.

In 1984 he starred as Winston Smith in a dramatisation of George Orwell's novel 1984. More recently he played Mr Ollivander in the Harry Potter series, and took parts in Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull in 2008, and in the Oscar-nominated spy film Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy in 2011.

In 2013 he starred in an episode of Doctor Who as the War Doctor.

He was recognised with a Lifetime Achievement Bafta in 2015, and over his career he recieved two Oscar nominations, four Bafta awards and a Golden Globe award. He was knighted in 2015.

Rowling, along with the theatre and film industry, paid tribute to the actor on Twitter

So very sad to hear that the immensely talented and deeply beloved John Hurt has died. My thoughts are with his family and friends.  J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) January 28, 2017

RIP John Hurt pic.twitter.com/yRNvrox6Za  Luke Evans (@TheRealLukevans) January 28, 2017

RIP John Hurt. Always great pic.twitter.com/rbPssFNVsy  Viola Davis (@violadavis) January 28, 2017

John Hurt blazed into my consciousness mid 70s in The Naked Civil Servant. Remained firmly rooted there & always will. RIP pic.twitter.com/9nCcOkfMDw  Omid Djalili (@omid9) January 28, 2017

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Police in East Lansing are searching for the driver who hit two pedestrians in a cross walk. Authorities say around 2:00 Saturday morning, two people were walking across Albert Avenue at the corner of M.A.C. Avenue, when they were hit by a car turning southbound onto M.A.C.The driver then took off.

Both pedestrians were taken to the hospital with minor injuries and are expected to be okay.
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 28/01/2017 (2107 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The Royal Winnipeg Ballet pushed 700-plus ballet enthusiasts out of their comfort zones  literally  with its seasons third production, the aptly titled Mixed Programme, unusually performed at the Pantages Playhouse Theatre. Seats were cramped, sightlines sketchy, washroom lines proved longer than usual, but oh, how good it was to experience up-close-and-personal the resilient backbone of this 77-year old troupe that built its worldwide reputation on this very same stage.

The scaled down, three-show run opened Friday night  and closes Saturday after shows at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.  features four diverse ballets, from classical to contemporary works.

Having the show re-situated to the venerable Playhouse for a variety of reasons  Saturday nights opening of the 2017 Winnipeg New Music Festival being one of those  not only created greater intimacy with the dancers, but also generated more electricity in the audience than a hydropower plant in spring. Opening nights performance received numerous loud cheers, spontaneous applause, and real, heartfelt standing ovations.

STANISLAV BELYAEVSKY PHOTOS Greater intimacy with the dancers at Pantages generated more electricity in the audience than a hydropower plant in spring.

One of the evenings highlights proved to be RWB rising stars and its youngest members: members: corps de ballet dancers Saeka Shirai and Yue Shi, who reprised their Don Quixote Pas De Deux that quite rightfully earned them a silver medal at the 2016 Varna International Ballet Competition held in Bulgaria last July. The pair won the coveted prize out of 104 competitors in the senior category, and were the only Canadians to have made the finals.

Their enthralling performance this weekend showcased these two balletic juggernauts effortless partnering, including several gravity-defying lifts where Shi holds Shirai far over his head with one arm that elicited gasps from the crowd. The petite ballerina also displayed her pristine lines and a confidence beyond her tender years. The classical pas de deux, choreographed by Marius Petipa, includes its own bag of tricks: dizzying fouettes, pirouettes, pique turns, among others, which the two dancers tossed off like childs play. Shis sky-high scissor leaps that appeared suspended in time also earned his own cheers, with the couple receiving thunderous applause and the nights first ovation at the end.

American choreographer Lila Yorks Celts (1995) closed the show with high-octane energy evoking the crowd-pleasing, high-stepping Riverdance shows. But Yorks artistry, who also choreographed the RWBs 2014 adaptation of Margaret Atwoods dystopian novel The Handmaids Tale, takes it so much further, with a pastiche recorded score featuring music by the Chieftains, Mason Daring, William J. Ruyle, Bill Whelan and Celtic Thunder.

Bodies fly on and offstage. The larger company performing with poker straight arms and legs broke into smaller ensembles. The RWBs Peter Pan, soloist Yosuke Mino, threw sparks like a grinning leprechaun during his solo as Green Man, while principal dancers Jo-Ann Sundermeier as Red Woman, and Dmitri Dovgoselets Red Man deliver their own exuberant, rhythmically pulsating duet. By contrast, principal dancer Sophia Lees Brown Woman also treats viewers with her well-controlled solo that gradually morphs into a second duo with Brown Man Kostyantyn Keshushev.

Perhaps the most memorable section is the male ensemble, as six bare-chested RWB dancers clothed in costume designer Tunji Dadas short velvety red skirts shake their fists, tumble onstage, cartwheel, and hurl their bodies at each other like rutting bucks. Dovgoselets marks his territory as the alpha male during the testosterone-charged section, with Yorks choreography infused with raw primalism while still grounded in classical roots.

William Forsythes The Vertiginous Thrill of Exactitude, last performed here in 2012,opened the program, unfolding as a kaleidoscope of pure kinetic movement. The company kept pace throughout its highly technical demands, as they spun like quarks, and executed Forsythes nail-biting choreography performed en pointe with crisp precision. Lees early solo infused with dizzying shifts of direction and intricate footwork could not have been easy, although she made it appear so.

Last but not least, Montreal-based choreographer Mark Goddens Angels in the Architecture (1992) is an architecturally-conceived, 25-minute work that juxtaposes angular movement vocabulary with fluidly lyrical lines.

Several sections, such as the mens ensemble, were funkier than the prim Shakers might have allowed, feeling oddly out of place and overstaying their welcome even in his contemporary esthetic.

But the starkly visual images of the corn brooms and wooden Shaker chairs, with their slats at one-point evoking prison bars for female dancers to peer through, are evocative. And Godden discovers the passion behind the piety, with its finale danced to Aaron Coplands iconic arrangement of Shaker hymn Simple Gifts from his own ballet Appalachian Spring, a stirring highlight.

All four of the 90-minute productions ballets (with two intermissions) were performed to recorded music, with the theatres acoustics somewhat challenging at times. Lighting  especially during Goddens larger-scale Angels did not always fully read on the smaller stage.

But still, its as if you can hear the RWBs late, legendary artistic director Arnold Spohrs voice in the wings telling his kids to Stick together, no matter what. And so, with the companys newest production, they did.

holly.harris@shaw.ca
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 27/01/2017 (2108 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The title of Winnipeg playwright Ginny Collins The Flats  Prairie Theatre Exchanges 149th premiere of a new Canadian work  refers to an area in Churchill thats long been characterized as the wrong side of the tracks.

The people who live there, often squatters in makeshift abodes made of wood from discarded boats and buildings, are called flats-poor  which is worse than regular old poor.

Its with those kind of details that Collins creates an unerring sense of place in The Flats, which operates under the guise of a murder-mystery, but mostly works as a portrait of an unconventional, sometimes scary place at the edge of the world, where the polar bears can kill you if the weather doesnt first.

LEIF NORMAN PHOTOS Minnie (Julie Lumsden), Kate (Alicia Johnston) and RCMP officer Mel (Nyla Carpentier) are some of the residents in a town that is not only a magnet for people hiding their skeletons or outrunning their ghosts, but one where everyone knows everyone elses business.

The playwright weaves local colour, ancient lore and myth into a 110-minute work (with intermission) that explores the tension inherent in a town thats a magnet for people hiding their skeletons or outrunning their ghosts, but thats also a place where everyone knows everyone elses business.

At the plays outset, one of the towns doctors  by all accounts an unpleasant guy with a shady past  has gone missing from his house on the Flats, and RCMP officer Mel (Nyla Carpentier), newly returned to her hometown after an eight-year absence, is investigating.

She gets no joy from the doctors next-door neighbour, Kate (Alicia Johnston), a prickly, bordering-on-hostile woman who clearly has something to hide.

During their meeting, you cant help but think of Marge Gunderson, the over-nice but dogged police chief in the film Fargo (though the cadences of Mels speech are much more Manitoban, something thats refreshing to hear on local stages). Carpentier gives her a folksy affability, undercut with a bit of steel to let you know shes not to be messed with.

Mel has a old friendship with Chuck (Cercle Moliere regular Francis Fontaine, excellent at back-slapping bonhomie); hes Churchills mayor and the owner of many of the towns businesses. The two have a gently sparring relationship thats filled with affection  but is Chuck hiding something about his relationship with the not-so-good doctor?

Minnie (Julie Lumsden) is a 15-year-old from the Flats who runs whale-watching kayak tours of the bay for Chucks company (her sullen teenage takedown of clueless tourists is spot-on). She harbours a crush on Felix (Gabriel Gosselin), a dopey but likable small-town Quebecer whos twice her age, and whose reasons for being in Churchill seem as murky as every outsiders.

In addition to these flesh-and-blood characters are the intangible spirits that inhabit the Flats. Some are the ghosts of people who have died, others are part of Dene legends.

Brian Perchaluks effective, monochromatic set uses a slatted wooden backdrop with multiple doors and hinged shutters that can be shifted and opened to portray various settings. Photos of Churchill projected onto this backdrop add to the barren ambience.

Collins dialogue is authentic and witty  this is often a very funny play  and her story captures the contradictions and conflicts of small-town life.

Angry one minute, exuberant the next, Minnie gives voice to the push and pull between locals and interlopers, aboriginals and whites, tourists and townies. Her longing to be elsewhere, anywhere, is countered by Felixs almost dreamy acceptance, Mels clear sense of duty to her community, and Chucks blustery boosterism.

Unfortunately, the plays second half, which brings the murder-mystery to the forefront, is less successful.

Though the isolation, howling winds, roaming bears and eerie northern lights make for a suitably macabre setting, there arent nearly enough characters to make for a good Agatha Christie-style whodunit.

To be fair, thats not Collins intent, but her choice to incorporate the supernatural really requires that element to have been woven into the plays structure and plot in a more cohesive thematic way. It makes what is intended to be a moving, tranformative moment feel a bit like a cop-out.

However, the world Collins gives us is anything but flat; its rare that an evening of theatre takes us to a place that feels at once so familiar and so strange.

jill.wilson@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @dedaumier

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Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 27/01/2017 (2108 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Two Winnipeg businessmen are headed to prison for tax evasion after they cooked up an investment scheme that left them owing more than $2 million in unpaid taxes and affected more than 300 people who bought into the operation.

Jeff Dyck, 41, and Neil Friesen, 65, were each sentenced Friday to four years in prison after previously pleading guilty to tax evasion: two charges each under the Income Tax Act and the Excise Tax Act. They initially faced several charges after a Canada Revenue Agency investigation into their company, One World United Inc., found they had created a fake investment scheme and told investors they could claim bogus tax writeoffs. The investigation spanned over three years, ending in 2010, and involved 20 investigators who spent 5,600 hours looking into the case, court heard Friday. They uncovered $14.5 million in falsified losses from the company. Of that, $2.2 million was unpaid federal taxes.

While imposing the sentence, provincial court Judge Kael McKenzie rejected a defence argument that the accused were simply bumbling businessmen who were trying to put forward an aggressive tax program for their business, which ultimately failed, and that their only mistake was not paying their taxes.

RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES

Both knew exactly what they were doing. They werent bumbling businessmen, the judge said, adding they had years of experience in the investment business and were running a large-scale, sophisticated operation.

The pair were planning an empire and scheming to become rich. This is greed, McKenzie said. The men profited from the scheme to the tune of $1 million each and had other assets including two luxury apartments in Las Vegas for Dyck, who later moved to the U.S. and tried to start a similar investment model there  a fact the judge said he found concerning.

The judge imposed a three-year sentence plus a fine of $1.1 million for each accused, but because they cant pay the fines, he added another year of consecutive jail time for each.

One World United was set up as an investment fund membership program and involved 325 investors, most of whom were family and friends of the accused and faced their own audits and penalties from CRA, court heard. The scheme allowed them to write off all of their investments as losses, which was not a legal process of income-tax deductions. Most of the money they owed has been paid back as a result of civil court cases.

Neither Dyck nor Friesen had a prior criminal record. Their defence lawyer, Marty Minuk, had argued in favour of a conditional sentence that would spare them jail time, while the Crown asked for a four-year sentence plus a fine of $1 million each.

Both of the accused still have a lot of support in the community, and most of their investors have forgiven them, the judge acknowledged, but he said the pair had given investors false hope that theyd be able to pay them back and still may not understand what theyve done wrong.

They continue to believe in their investment, McKenzie said.

katie.may@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @thatkatiemay
Opinion

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 28/01/2017 (2107 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Marketing campaigns advertising herbicides use all sorts of creative ways to describe how farmers can use them to wipe out, smoke, annihilate, blast or otherwise kill those pesky weeds.

However, if that were true, the herbicide industry would have gone out of business a long time ago because all the weeds would be dead.

The reality confronting farmers is those weeds will be back again the following year, often with relentless force. At best, they get enough control to minimize the weedy competition with their annual crops.

In fact, archeological sites discovered in 2015 found weeds along the receding shores of the Sea of Galilee. In other words, weeds have been a part of agriculture since the beginning, University of Regina weed researcher Eric Johnson recently told a conference in Regina.

Those remains not only indicate humans started farming 11,000 years earlier than first thought, but they were growing crops genetically related to modern-day lentils, peas, wheat and barley. Likewise, they were struggling to control early versions of some of the same weeds common today.

For Johnson, who describes a weed as simply a plant with a strong will to survive, its a sobering context for some of the issues farmers face with weeds on the Canadian prairies today.

Weeds are a part of the natural system and they are very adaptable, they are very genetically diverse and theyll adapt to what we throw at them, he said. So we cant be very predictable  if we are predictable, then weeds will adapt.

Annual crop production is, by its very nature, predictable.

Farmers plant a relatively narrow range of annual crops at about the same time each spring. These crops are genetically selected so they will mature within a relatively short growing season. The fields are harvested and lie dormant until the next time they are put into production.

As farming systems have evolved from intensive tillage to herbicides plus tillage, to minimum-till systems with a heavy reliance on herbicides, the range of plants stepping in to be a pest have adapted too.

In recent history, prairie weed scientists have been tracking that evolution through six surveys between 1978 and 2016. They measured the most common species of weeds, their genetic uniformity and their density in farmers fields.

There have been some significant shifts in the 10 worst weeds that for the most part mirror the changes in tillage practices, herbicide use and the crops farmers are growing. Theres a new factor surfacing. Warmer winters have increased the number of annual seeds capable of overwintering.

For example, volunteer canola, which sprouts from the seed left on the field from the previous years harvest, has climbed in the ranks from 19th to become the fifth-most troublesome weed in Manitoba.

Because virtually all canola grown now is bred to be herbicide resistant, farmers have to combine two herbicides to kill it, with the so-called spring burn-off herbicide application before seeding.

Because its seeds are easily dispersed, there is now enough of it growing in ditches or bare patches of ground that there is always a reservoir of new seed.

Just as intensive tillage creates an environment for certain weeds to thrive, overreliance on herbicides has selected for other unwanted resistant plants, such as wild oats and green foxtail. Farmers in Arkansas have resorted to the tactic used by those prehistoric farmers  hand-pulling  because nothing else works anymore.

Provincial weed scientist Jeanette Gauthier told farmers attending Manitoba Ag Days recently there are now about 4.46 million acres  more than a third  of Manitoba cropland that have been infested with herbicide-resistant weeds.

A common theme on the extension meeting circuit this winter is that there is a high cost to simplicity.

Farmers best defence against herbicide-resistant weeds is to mirror natures attraction to diversity by rotating crops from year to year, including perennial forages or cereals planted in fall rather than spring instead of just annual crops.

Weve tried to make weed control very simple  and its not simple, Johnson said.

Laura Rance is editorial director for Farm Business Communications. She can be reached at laura@fbcpublishing.com or 204-792-4382
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 27/01/2017 (2108 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The scope of a provincial review into criminal cases that a disgraced police officer worked on still hasnt been determined, Manitoba Justice says; however, at least two cases involving his police work have been thrown out of court.

A spokeswoman for the department said Thursday the review began after charges were laid against Winnipeg Police Service Const. Trent Milan, 42, last fall as part of the normal process when a police officer is accused of wrongdoing. Allegations of corruption and breach of trust have followed Milan, an 18-year member of the city police force, even after his sudden death in a car crash on Oct. 3.

The impact of those allegations has landed in court, where defence lawyers have argued criminal cases involving Trent Milan should not proceed. Drug-trafficking charges in at least two cases Milan worked on have been dropped, cases that would ordinarily have netted prison sentences upon conviction.

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Files A pick-up truck sits crumpled at the side of the Garven Road close to where it hit a gravel truck Monday morning. The driver, officer Trent Milan, was pronounced dead at the scene.

On Sept. 29, about two weeks after Milan was formally charged, drug-trafficking charges were stayed against four people after a search of their home turned up more than $100,000 worth of fentanyl and marijuana.

Milan was the officer in charge of getting the search warrant and he cited the use of a confidential informant, said defence lawyer David Wolfe Walker of Bokhari Smith and Walker, who represented one of the accused in that case. He said his client alleged evidence had been planted against him, and had previously accused Milan of stealing cash from him during a traffic stop.

Once I brought up the Trent Milan issue, everything came to a rest, Walker said. The integrity of the evidence was shot.

On Dec. 5, drug-trafficking charges were stayed in a different case where Milan had been one of the officers searching the home. The search produced $15,000 worth of cocaine, and all charges related to the raid were dropped after lawyers asked about Milan.

Defence lawyer Karl Gowenlock said the day after he asked for disclosure about the allegations against Milan, the Crown offered to stay the charges  apart from one possession charge for a small amount of drugs that were not found during the search in the home. That charge resulted in a fine for one of the accused, rather than the prison term the group had been facing, Gowenlock said.

I cant say whether it was his involvement per se, or whether it was the fact that theyd rather drop the charges than fight about or disclose the investigation into Trent Milan, he said.

Its unclear what the precise allegations against him were, but theres always the possibility that an officer plants drugs to get leverage on someone, so really, you cant trust anything he says. So if any of the case relies on any of his evidence in any way, that evidence cant be trusted.

The Prosecution Service of Canada, which prosecutes drug charges, said all cases are reviewed regularly and credibility or availability of witnesses is taken into account when deciding whether a case should move forward, as well as whether there is a reasonable likelihood of conviction.

Cst. Milans involvement doesnt necessarily void every file. Each is reviewed in accordance with our directive, federal Crown attorney Joan Schmidt told the Free Press in an email.

A Manitoba Justice spokeswoman said no provincial prosecutions have been stayed as a result of Milans involvement.

Manitoba Prosecution Service has launched a review of cases involving Trent Milan. It began with matters before the court, and is now looking at cases that have concluded. The full scope of the review has not yet been determined, but we expect it will involve cases over at least the last several years, the justice department said in a statement.

Milan was the key witness in a weapons case currently before the court, and defence lawyer Jay Prober said its somewhat astounding the Crown has chosen to proceed to trial in light of the allegations against him.

Three people were charged with several weapons offences, but one of them, 32-year-old Theodoros Belayneh, was killed in a drive-by shooting in November. The case is headed to trial this fall and Prober said Milan testified against the accused during a preliminary hearing held last April.

Its certainly an issue for those people who were convicted on his evidence. It could certainly bring the administration of justice into disrepute unless theres a thorough review done of the cases in which he (Milan) testified, Prober said.

At the time of his death, which appeared to be deliberate on his part, Milan was accused of stealing police evidence  including illegal drugs and weapons officers had seized. Milan faced more than 30 charges, including breach of trust, theft over $5,000, possession of dangerous weapons and possession of various drugs for the purpose of trafficking.

katie.may@freepress.mb.caTwitter: @thatkatiemay
Opinion

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 28/01/2017 (2107 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Its easy to understand Mayor Brian Bowmans consternation.

Bowman and council had just been rocked by reports the RCMP found evidence of a $200,000 payment to former chief administrative officer Phil Sheegl and former mayor Sam Katz from a construction firm involved in the retrofit of the Winnipeg Police Services downtown headquarters. The police have not laid any charges, and no allegations have been proven in court.

Still, the revelation shook city hall to its very foundation. Even though Katz and Sheegl are long gone by now  the first via retirement, the second by way of cleverly timed golden handshake  the mayor and council still carry the burden from the allegations levelled against them.

JOHN WOODS / FREE PRESS FILES Phil Sheegl (left) and Sam Katz arrive at the Winnipeg airport from Phoenix, Arizona in February 2014.

The current mayors first thought was to ask the province to order an official inquiry into the wheelings and dealings around the WPS project, to get to the bottom of what happened and who, if anyone, profited. The public needs to know were taking this seriously, Bowman said Thursday. The public needs to know that were doing everything we can to restore trust and faith in city hall.

The mayor is right when he says all Winnipeggers should see this being taken seriously. Unfortunately, Bowman and many members of council who supported his call for a provincial inquiry will get no satisfaction from this tack. In fact, there are strong arguments against an inquiry, at least against holding one now or even in the near future.

No government would order an inquiry of any kind while an active criminal investigation is ongoing. If that investigation fails to produce charges, it will be difficult for the province to justify an inquiry. If charges were laid, then it would be impractical and highly improper to try and conduct a concurrent inquiry. It is also important to remember, in keeping with legal tradition, any evidence presented at an inquiry would be inadmissible in any subsequent court proceeding.

That does not mean Bowman and council need sit on their hands until the RCMP are finished their work. In fact, if city council wants to do something to address the allegations of wrongdoing by a former mayor and former chief administrative officer, it should pressure Premier Brian Pallister and his Tory government to reform the law governing municipal elected officials and conflicts of interest.

Former mayor Katz, in particular, has lived a charmed life as an elected official, in large part because the provincial law governing conflicts of interest and overlapping business interests is woefully inadequate. The former NDP government routinely ignored this reality and refused to get involved in reforming either the City of Winnipeg Act or the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act, to facilitate effective investigations and clarify penalties.

Former premier Greg Selinger did, finally, agree to such a review of legislation in the months immediately prior to the 2016 election, which he lost. It was just one of a number of measures brought forward by the NDP in the pre-writ period that were the very picture of too little, too late.

That gives the new government a wonderful opportunity to step in and not only do the right thing, but do it in a way that fully exposes a failure of the previous government.

If that is not motivation enough for Pallister, a quick review of the trail of questionable ethical and moral decisions made by former mayor Katz should be enough to light a fire under someone at the Manitoba Legislature.

If Katz and Sheegl were good at anything, it was in exploiting the vagaries in the existing laws governing conflicts of interest. They were patently aware that there are virtually no investigatory resources or powers devoted to a full and fair review of conflicts of interest. Both men seemed more than capable of conducting private business dealings that not only overlapped with their civic functions, but which existed just outside the reach of current laws.

This familiarity with the extremely limited nature of existing laws was demonstrated clearly in 2005 when Katz accepted a $50,000 payment from former business partners involved in renovating the Walker Theatre in downtown Winnipeg. The payment was purportedly to buy him out of an interest he held in a mortgage on the historic theatre. Six months after he took the money, Katz voted on a motion to executive policy committee to give the Walker Theatre consortirum a $220,000 grant.

When questioned about it, Katz claimed there was nothing wrong with his decision to sponsor and vote for the grant motion because the people involved in the consortium were now former business partners. If Im not involved, Im not involved, Katz said at the time. You either are or you arent.

This wasnt some off-the-cuff rhetoric to deflect a reporters question. This was Katz demonstrating he knew municipal conflict-of-interest guidelines didnt include any restrictions on taking part in a vote to give money to your only recently former business partners.

The same scenario played out years later when it was learned Katz had obtained a luxury home in Phoenix that was previously owned by the sibling of a principal at Shindico, the real estate development company owned by Sandy Shindleman, a well-known friend and business associate of the former mayor. At the time of the revelations, questions were being raised about the propriety of city real estate transactions involving Shindico.

It seemed Katz either got the house for free, or at a greatly reduced price. There was no mortgage on the home, making the value of the transaction untraceable. It certainly smelled very bad, but again, conflict of interest laws do not contain any provisions to review foreign real estate transactions between Winnipeg elected officials and Winnipeg government contractors.

An inquiry may be in the cards, but its unlikely. Charges may or may not be laid. Regardless of how this story unfolds, few citizens would oppose a move by the PC government to improve conflict of interest laws for municipal officials.

It may be impossible to redress the misdeeds of past municipal officials. Guaranteeing no one in the future exploits their position at city hall for personal gain would still be a good outcome.

dan.lett@freepress.mb.ca
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 28/01/2017 (2107 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

If life feels especially snowed-in this time of year, the Robert Askins play Hand to God is something to shatter the frost accumulated around your psyche.

It wields gleeful provocation like an ice pick, up to and including: a shy, misunderstood teen whose repressed id explodes via his hand puppet Tyrone; highly inappropriate rough sex between a church-going widow and the teen punk in her puppet ministry; and hints of Exorcist-style demonic possession.

And, oh yes, there will be blood.

DYLAN HEWLETT PHOTO Tom Keenan

Life is tough for Margery (Sharon Bajer) and her son Jason (Tom Keenan). Margerys husband has been dead for six months and she tries to march onward like a Christian soldier, relying on her role in her Texas church as the leader of a ragtag puppet ministry.

Thats not always easy since the churchs minister, Pastor Greg (Cory Wojcik), has started to express his feelings for Margery, and his plaintive wish for Margery to fill his empty arms is about as tantalizing a prospect as a ripped beanbag chair at a church rummage sale.

Dutiful son Jason is apparently the most talented puppeteer in Margerys group, but the meetings are awkward. Hes tormented by the bullying slacker Timothy (Toby Hughes). And he is attracted to the nice girl Jessica (Amy Keating).

When the pressure gets to be too much, Jasons innocuous puppet Tyrone starts to take on disturbing qualities. If Jason doesnt have the gumption to take on Timothy, Tyrone does. If Jason isnt bold enough to tell Jessica how he feels, Tyrone will

Like a foam rubber insult comic, Tyrone is given to telling toxic truths. And he gets more opportunities to do so when Timothy starts bragging about having has sex with Jasons mom, not untruthfully as we in the audience know from having experienced the shocking, funny scene minutes earlier.

Playwright Askins himself came from Texas, and has a puppet ministry in his own past. One cant help wonder how that background informed the more outrageous details of this work.

But rest assured, this isnt a literary exercise in acting out a-la-Tyrone on Askins part. For all its sexual hanky-panky and its second-act Hands of Orlac horror trappings, director Mitchell Cushman fashions a surprisingly thoughtful examination of the devils we humans are compelled to invent. Most characters fit into stereotypes: the nerd, the bad boy, the sexually repressed Christian mom and the goody-two-shoes pastor and yet the material allows each one to transcend the cliches.

A great cast helps. Bajer is note-perfect funny-sexy as the southern matriarch whose passive Melanie Wilkes veneer peels away to reveal unhinged Scarlett OHara passions. Hughes makes an excellent priapic jerk. Wojcik finds some dignity in a role that might have easily registered as a mean joke. And Keating provides a certain deadpan anchor to the crazed goings-on, yet finds a place to shine when she appears with a strategic puppet of her own to try to defuse Jason/Tyrones rampage, a priceless scene.

She has a very good partner in it. Keenan, last seen on the Royal MTC stage as a compromised cop in Unnecessary Farce, demonstrates real brilliance in what amounts to a dual role, a villain and victim in one body. His skilled puppeteering doesnt hurt.

The set design by Gillian Gallow is big and ambitious for the Warehouse stage, morphing the church-basement esthetic of rainbow colours on cinder block into something out of a Hieronymus Bosch hellscape.

randall.king@freepress.mb.caTwitter: @FreepKing

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Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 27/01/2017 (2108 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

RCMP have opened a second criminal investigation into the activities of the construction firm at the heart of a troubled civic project as a result of allegedly incriminating documents found at a warehouse fire last summer.

Meanwhile, civic officials have refused to say if they are reviewing the invoicing submitted by Caspian Construction for two other civic projects it was hired to construct: the South Osborne Transit garage and the Winnipeg police canine facility.

Affidavits filed with the court by the RCMP show investigators suspicions of Caspians involvement in the construction of the Canada Post mail processing plant adjacent to the Richardson International Airport escalated into a full-blown criminal investigation in February 2016.

BORIS MINKEVICH / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS The Winnipeg offices of Caspian Construction on McGillivray Blvd.

Those suspicions were further enhanced this past summer by the discovery of documents found in a Regent Avenue warehouse, which revealed altered subcontractor invoices for work carried out at the mail-processing plant between 2008 and 2012.

The RCMP affidavit states investigators allege Caspian owner Armik Babakhanians and Pamela Anderson, the firms office and accounting manager, altered invoices submitted by subcontractors on the mail processing plant and then filed inflated invoices to Canada Post for the same work.

The review showed that on some change orders, Canada Post is believed to have paid Caspian costs at an inflated rate, based on invoices which are believed to have been altered, stated RCMP Sgt. Breanne Chanel in an affidavit filed with the court in August.

The original RCMP investigation into suspected fraudulent billing involved in the construction of the Winnipeg police headquarters on Graham Avenue has widened to include allegations of bribes and kickbacks to civic officials, including former CAO Phil Sheegl and former mayor Sam Katz.

RCMP are investigating Sheegl for breach of trust for allegedly having accepted a secret $200,000 payment from Babakhanians in exchange for helping his construction firm get the police-headquarters contract, and then splitting that amount with Katz.

No charges have been laid, and the RCMP investigation, which began in December 2014, is ongoing.

Babakhanians, when contacted at his firms McGillivray Boulevard office, refused to comment about the recent allegations involving Sheegl and Katz and the Canada Post project.

Sheegl and Katz could not be reached for comment. Katz has not responded to telephone and text messages. There was no answer at the door of his familys home in the RM of Headingley.

Messages for Sheegl have not been returned. He was not at his Tuxedo home when the Free Press knocked on the door Friday afternoon.

The police-headquarters project escalated in cost from $135 million to $214 million, which prompted city council to order two independent audits and ultimately a majority of council in the summer of 2014 requested Manitoba Justice review the audit findings, which led to the RCMP being asked to investigate.

The RCMP said the Canada Post mail processing plant had an initial approved budget of $48.8 million, which climbed to $69.9 million as a result of changes carried out during construction.

Lawyer Robert Tapper, who represents Sheegl and Katz, said the allegations are unfounded and the result of sloppy work by the RCMP. Tapper confirmed Babakhanians paid Sheegl $200,000 but said it involved an Arizona real estate deal from 2011 where Babakhanians had acquired an interest in property there that was owned by Sheegl and Katz.

Caspian had also been awarded the contracts to construct the $22.6-million South Osborne Transit garage on Brandon Avenue and the $1.25-million WPS canine facility, adjacent to the west district police station on Dugald Road.

While the transit garage was built just under budget, earlier RCMP affidavits allege Babakhanians inflated invoices for the headquarters project in part to cover cost overruns on the transit garage project he was responsible for.

A civic spokeswoman said the city is co-operating with the RCMP investigation and would not comment on any concerns or possible reviews of the invoicing on the transit garage or the WPS canine facility projects.

While the RCMP investigation is ongoing, Chanel stated in her affidavit the RCMP expects to conclude its probe by the end of February or May of this year, when it will forward a brief to the Manitoba director of prosecutions for a decision on whether charges should be laid and against which individuals.

Chanel stated in an affidavit she filed with the court in August police became suspicious of Caspians work on Canada Posts mail-processing plant in February 2016, when they found identical invoices for the same work but one marked true and the other marked inflated. She said she suspected, like the Winnipeg police-headquarters project, Caspian officials had altered the invoices from subtrades working on the mail-processing plant and inflated billings submitted to the Crown agency.

The RCMP affidavit disclosed they were led to the invoices for the Canada Post project following a fire June 19 at a Regent Avenue West warehouse. Winnipeg police arson investigators discovered several boxes of documents related to Caspians work on the mail-processing plant, which prompted them to contact the RCMP.

The warehouse is owned by a numbered company. A record search by the RCMP revealed Babakhanians is the president of the numbered company and its majority shareholder. The numbered companys mailing address is the same as Caspians  2245 McGillivray Blvd.

Chanel stated RCMP seized eight bankers boxes of documents relating to the Canada Post mail-processing project. The warehouse appeared to be essentially vacant, Chanel said, with the exception of the documents stored on the second floor. Some of the documents had been damaged by the fire and others damaged by water.

The records appear to contain Caspians record of invoicing and balancing of accounts with subtrades from this project, Chanel stated.

In a request for an order to seize the documents, an RCMP officer stated in an affidavit: I believe that a search of the building located at 1001 Regent Ave. will afford evidence of the offences of fraud over $5,000 and falsification of books and documents and will support further investigation in this matter.

Chanel said Canada Post officials told her on the mail-processing plant project, Caspian was entitled to additional pay when aspects of the project were changed during the construction phase: in addition to the true cost, Caspian was entitled to charge 10 per cent overhead and a further 10 per cent profit.

 with files from Mike McIntyre

aldo.santin@freepress.mb.ca
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 28/01/2017 (2107 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Its been more than nine months since Greg Selinger announced he was stepping down as leader of the vanquished NDP, and so far nobody has firmly declared an interest in succeeding him.

Several party caucus members have said they are contemplating a run for the leadership, as has Michelle McHale, who helped organize last years Steinbach Pride event. A few other prominent NDPers havent ruled out a bid.

John Woods / Canadian Press files Nahanni Fontaine said she is also seriously contemplating a run.

But New Democrats are hardly rushing to apply for the job. To put it bluntly, the position of Manitoba NDP party leader is not the prize it once was.

Its not like its a brilliant career move right now, says Christopher Adams, a Winnipeg political scientist.

Past leadership battles have cast a pall over a party that remains largely divided into camps. The NDPs 13-member caucus has struggled to mount an effective Opposition to the Pallister government. Selinger remains in caucus but plays a very small public role. The performance of his choice as interim party leader, Flor Marcelino, has been underwhelming. Her handling of allegations of verbal sexual harassment against MLA Mohinder Saran has been clumsy.

With former Point Douglas MLA Kevin Chief now out of politics, there is no perceived leadership front-runner.

Who will wind up taking on the largely thankless job of rebuilding and rebranding the party? We wont know until the NDP holds its leadership convention in Winnipeg in mid-September.

When will candidates begin to formally throw their hats into the ring? Perhaps not for another six weeks. The party is holding a policy convention in Winnipeg March 17-19. Thats when the rules governing the leadership contest will be hammered out. Its expected would-be leadership hopefuls are keeping their powder dry until then.

Testing the waters

Wab Kinew, an author, musician, broadcaster and former university administrator first elected to the legislature last April, said hes contemplating a leadership run.

I havent made a decision firmly one way or the other, but Im open to it, the 35-year-old said.

But in a recent interview, Kinew (Fort Rouge) said he would also be open to supporting someone else, if they were the right person to lead the party.

Another rookie MLA, Nahanni Fontaine, said she is also seriously contemplating a run.

Fontaine, a longtime advocate for missing and murdered indigenous women and girls and, until her election last spring, the provinces special adviser on aboriginal womens issues, called it a very sacred responsibility to be potentially in line to be premier.

But the St. Johns MLA places a caveat on a leadership bid. Youd have to really know and believe that you could really effect change, she said.

BORIS MINKEVICH / FREE PRESS FILES Michelle McHale

Fontaine said she could also see herself supporting a bid by her colleague, Kinew. I have a lot of love and respect for my colleague Wab, and I dont think its going to be very effective if both of us run.

A third caucus member, Matt Wiebe, is also testing the waters. First elected in a 2010 byelection in Concordia  where he replaced Gary Doer  he served as caucus chairman under Selinger before the last election.

I am listening to members of the party. Im listening to constituents to find out what their priorities are. I am getting a lot of encouragement (to seek the leadership), particularly from the grassroots, he said.

Wiebe, a longtime party foot soldier and former constituency executive assistant to Doer, said he needs to do a lot more reaching out to folks before taking the plunge.

Outside the caucus, McHale, who after organizing last years Steinbach Pride has since landed a job as a union rep with UFCW Local 832, said shes having lots of conversations with a wide range of party members about a potential run.

McHale, who previously worked in the public health and community mental-health fields, said she has the skills needed to rebuild the party.

Thats the skill set that I have  bridge-building, community-building, organizing, she said.

The elephant in the room

He lost what was considered one of the safest NDP seats in the province in last years Tory sweep, bringing an end to a string of personal victories in the Thompson riding dating back to 1981.

But many NDPers believe Steve Ashton is plotting a comeback  and a third leadership challenge. (He lost to Greg Selinger in 2009 and 2015.)

Steve is running, no question. This is all hes ever wanted, said one longtime party member.

After Ashton  who did not respond to an interview request this week  lost his seat last spring, he assisted in the partys transition from government to official Opposition, sharing an office within the NDP caucus for a time.

His influence or potential influence on the current regime is significant. His allies and/or past leadership supporters hold key positions at the legislature. Jim Maloway (Elmwood) is the partys house leader. Flin Flon MLA Tom Lindsey is the new caucus chairman. Christopher Sanderson, who helped run his last leadership campaign, is the caucuss communications and policy director.

At the most recent meeting of the partys provincial council, a body of more than 100 people from across Manitoba that calls the shots between party conventions, Ashton is reported to have lobbied hard for an amendment to proposed leadership-selection rules that would have allowed candidates to sell party memberships until 30 days before the leadership convention. Council members opted to accept a rules committee recommendation that only party members in good standing 90 days in advance of the leadership vote could participate. But the issue is likely to be reopened again at the partys AGM in March.

WAYNE GLOWACKI / FREE PRESS FILES Wab Kinew

Some within the NDP view Ashtons efforts at the provincial council meeting, which was closed to the media, as proof he will again contest the leadership. They say a later membership-sales cutoff would give him an advantage in the immigrant community, whose support hes successfully tapped in the past.

With the party starving for funds, the leadership race greatly favours a candidate who wont depend on it for financial support. MLAs already command a basic annual salary of $93,025, giving them an edge on potential competitors from outside of caucus.

But Ashton  because of his 35 years of service in the legislature  is not at the same disadvantage. The Canadian Taxpayers Federation estimated his annual pension to be worth $86,000.

Emotions still raw

With the NDP about to hold its third leadership convention in less than eight years, emotions from past contests are still raw in some quarters.

There is resentment against the so-called Gang of Five cabinet ministers who revolted against Greg Selinger in the fall of 2014, sparking the bitter 2015 leadership contest, in which Selinger eked out a 33-vote victory against runner-up Theresa Oswald. There is resentment against Greg Selinger for failing to see the writing on the wall, resign and make way for a new leader who would have stood a better chance against Brian Pallisters Progressive Conservatives.

In the coming months, each potential leadership candidate will be  rightly or wrongly  identified or assigned to a particular camp  be it the Selinger camp, the Ashton camp or the Oswald camp.

All those who have said they are considering a leadership run deny they are part of any camp.

Kinew was recruited by Selinger to run in Fort Rouge but rejected the idea hes a Selinger man per se. He said he has a lot of respect for Selinger, but hes quick to point out he didnt always agree with the former premier and spoke out against the NDPs decision to raise the PST.

Wiebe, as government caucus chairman in 2015, remained neutral during the last leadership campaign, although he is believed to have voted for Oswald.

McHale has been slotted by some as being in the Selinger camp because she has sought advice from a former Selinger organizer, Geof Langen. She refuses to be categorized in this way. She said she and Langen know each other because theyre both involved in the Pride community.

Am I chatting with him? Yes. And do I ask his opinion? Of course, because hes been involved (in politics) for quite a long time, she said of Langen.

During the last leadership contest, Ashton tried to portray himself as a party uniter. Ironically, he could forge an uneasy alliance among former Selinger and Oswald supporters should he again challenge for the leadership. The situation would be reminiscent of the 2009 leadership contest when then-leadership hopeful Andrew Swan and his backers (which included Oswald and other centrist New Democrats) threw their support to Selinger after Swans campaign stalled to ensure Ashton didnt win.

Will Swan revive his leadership aspirations  despite the polarizing effect that might have as a former Gang of Five member? Will Oswald, the Selinger dissidents choice as leader, make a comeback?

I have not turned my mind to the question of running for leader, said Swan in a text. Pressed further, he said: Im not ruling anything out.

Reached recently by telephone, Oswalds response was enigmatic: My life right now is about looking at doors that are opening. Im not closing any doors, and I would include this one. But I did make a very serious decision to leave politics, and it was the right decision for me.

larry.kusch@freepress.mb.ca

RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Greg Selinger
Opinion

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 28/01/2017 (2107 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The story began last March on an icy street in what was initially only vaguely identified as a residential street.

Thats not where it really began.

It was 3:20 a.m. on March 12 when the 911 call was made about a suspected intoxicated driver.

That was right after the 2010 Chrysler 300 had clear-cut its way through three front yards, shearing off a fire hydrant, crashing over rocks, knocking down and uprooting small trees, and turning itself and a rusty van parked in a driveway into writeoffs. Neither the person who made the 911 call, nor any of the primarily pensioners who live on that block, could have suspected who was behind the wheel and in the passenger seat.

After all, what would two off-duty cops be doing getting into an accident like that  at an hour like that?

Basically, thats what I asked the Winnipeg Police Service nearly a month later, after finally learning about the accident from a provincial government news release that also mentioned one of the officers was treated at the scene while the other was taken to hospital by ambulance for what turned out to be a minor injury.

What I asked police back then was the obvious question given previous Winnipeg police history: did the timing of the accident coincide with a platoon shift change?

The police service knew what I was really asking. Had the two cops in the Chrysler been driving home after a shifter? The kind of end-of-shift-drinking gathering like the one in 2005 that led to another traffic collision involving an off-duty city constable, the tragic death of wife and mother Crystal Taman and the creation of Manitobas Independent Investigation Unit (IIU).

Winnipeg police didnt answer my question directly last April.

Instead, they said the investigation had been referred to an outside agency. Normally, that would have been the IIU, but this was far from a normal case.

It took police five days to contact IIU director Zane Tessler, a time delay that, on its face, doesnt comply with the call hes supposed to get immediately after an incident in which police could be charged criminally. It would be another five days for Tessler to determine his unit couldnt take the file.

It shouldnt have taken that long for Tessler to figure out there was a conflict.

John Stevenson is a retired city detective and the father of Andrew Stevenson, the cop at the centre of the case. The elder Stevenson was also a member of the IIU investigative unit. Thats why Saskatchewan RCMP assumed the investigation. Last October, the Mounties charged Andrew Stevenson with dangerous driving, which is a criminal offence.

Then, earlier this month, Stevenson appeared in court and Grant Hughes, a Crown prosecutor from Brandon, filled in some details.

The estimated distance travelled off road was over 52 metres, Hughes told the judge.

Thats half a football field.

The crash dash recorder recorded a speed of approximately 127 km/h an hour for a period of five seconds.

Hughes suggested that might not be an absolutely accurate number because it was calculated from the wheels and it was an extremely icy road.

But, he added, it does indicate a significant rate of speed.

Thats not how Stevenson recalled it though, when he spoke to Manitoba Public Insurance. He estimated he was travelling 55 km/h in the 50-km/h zone and claimed he swerved to avoid someone on the street.

Hughes also reported Stevensons police pal passenger, Elston Bostock, was intoxicated. It was what was missing from the Crown prosecutors reading of the facts that stuck out. There was no evidence that police had demanded a breathalyzer from Stevenson.

According to Mr. Stevensons statement, he hadnt had any alcohol to drink since earlier that evening, Hughes said. And there was absolutely nothing any witness evidence to suggest that Mr. Stevenson was intoxicated whatsoever.

In the end there was a plea bargain. Hughes, Stevensons lawyer and the judge agreed the criminal charge be reduced to careless driving; a highway traffic offence with a fine of $500.

But that wasnt really the end.

I was hoping there was going to be a mention in court about where Stevenson and his intoxicated passenger were coming from that morning. Or where they were going. But Hughes didnt say.

If Chief Danny Smyth knows, he isnt saying either. When I persisted via email to ask whether police were doing an internal investigation, a police spokesman said they have requested a copy of the Saskatchewan RCMP investigation.

Once that is reviewed it will then have to be determined if any further investigation is warranted.

There was something else that was finally revealed in court.

The neighbourhood and exact location where Stevenson began his off-road romp by taking out the fire hydrant.

On Thursday evening, I drove out to North Kildonan and interviewed several homeowners in the 400 block of Bonner Avenue. One of them was a police officer and former traffic cop with a front window view of the accident who, after I introduced myself, kept his comment brief: Get off my property.

Then he went across the street to tell the woman who lives where the Chrysler finally stopped that I was on my way to ask her some questions about the accident.

I spent three hours on the block speaking with three other homeowners who had their front yards clear cut, as well as others nearby. The most revealing part of what they said wasnt about what they witnessed  it was that police have never asked them what they witnessed.

That brought on a flashback.

Of another event on an early March morning nearly 30 years ago, when a police officer shot a 36-year-old aboriginal leader walking home on Logan Avenue and the cops werent curious enough to properly canvass for witnesses in that neighbourhood.

The death of J. J. Harper wasnt my only flashback. Before driving over to Bonner Avenue, I checked for directions and was reminded of another tragic death. The location where the two off-duty officers crashed last year is 3.5 kilometres and mere minutes from the intersection of the Perimeter Highway and Lagimodiere Boulevard where Crystal Taman was killed by another off-duty officer who plowed into her car.

Apparently, at its cultural core, the Winnipeg Police Service still hasnt learned from what should have been two of its most important teaching moments.

Thats why what happened last winter on an icy street in North Kildonan wasnt the beginning of the story.

And thats why its not the end, either.

gordon.sinclair@freepress.mb.ca
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 27/01/2017 (2108 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

A 23-year-old woman has been charged in the slaying of a 32-year-old man last November.

Winnipeg police spokesman Const. Rob Carver said Friday Paige Crossman was arrested Thursday afternoon in the St. Boniface area and charged with first-degree murder, attempted murder, possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking, drug trafficking and possessing the proceeds of crime.

Crossman has been detained in custody.

RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Police Identification officers investigate the shooting scene on Stradbrook Avenue in November.

Two men were shot and found around Donald Street and Stradbrook Avenue on Nov. 26, at about 3 a.m. Both were rushed to hospital in critical condition, but Theodoros Belayneh, 32, of Edmonton, didnt survive.

This attack was not random, but I am not able to go into any details as to the relationship between the accused and either of the victims, Carver said.

At the time of the shootings, homicide unit Sgt. John ODonovan said the two men were sitting inside a grey 2013 Acura ILX outside an apartment block on Donald Street when shots fired from a passing vehicle hit them.

ODonovan said the vehicles window pretty much exploded when the bullets went through. Belayneh was sitting in the passenger seat after they saw an Ace Hood hip-hop concert at the Reset Interactive Ultralounge on Pembina Highway.

Theres no doubt about it that their intention was to kill the occupants of that vehicle, the officer said.

This is Winnipeg, its not Chicago, so we cant allow that to continue.

Police are continuing to ask anyone with any information to call investigators at 204-986-6508 or Crime Stoppers at 204-786-TIPS (8477).
Opinion

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 28/01/2017 (2107 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

JAN. 28 should be declared a national holiday as it was the day in which some women in Manitoba gained the right to vote. Manitoba was the first province to extend suffrage to some women, allowing them to take their rightful place in a modern democracy.

On that same date, in 1988  coincidentally or not  the Supreme Court of Canada ruled in the Morgentaler case, striking down Canadas abortion laws. Abortion committees no longer could decide what a woman could do when facing an unwanted pregnancy. Abortion was deemed a fundamental right.

These two events were absolutely critical in the struggle for womens equality in Canada.

The struggle for suffrage, as with the abortion fight, took many years and involved thousands of women. Manitoba and Ontario had the greatest organizational strength backing suffrage.

Four medical doctors were early leaders in the movement. Three of them, Lillian and Amelia Yeoman from Manitoba and Emily Stowe in Ontario, were denied entrance to Canadian medical schools and had to obtain their training in the United States.

Stowe graduated in 1867 and was the first woman to practise medicine in Canada. Almost immediately she established the Toronto Womens Literacy Club, a front for suffrage work. The Yeomans began their activism with the Womans Christian Temperance Union in Winnipeg in 1883. They believed the horrible conditions of women they cared for in the citys slums and the brutality of their lives would only be changed if women had the right to vote and liquor was outlawed.

In 1911, the infamous British feminist Emily Pankhurst came to Canada and filled the halls with thunderous applause. Nellie McClung from Manitoba, a well-read author and suffrage activist, was also speaking across the country to enthusiastic audiences.

Finally on Jan. 28, 1916, history was made.

The fight to eliminate abortion restrictions in Canada formally began when Dr. Henry Morgentaler opened his first abortion clinic in Montreal in 1969, the same year then-prime minister Pierre Trudeau decriminalized contraception and liberalized laws around abortion.

The womens movement was in full bloom and across Canada. The pro-choice movement was born.

Women believed that if they could not control their own bodies, they could not control their lives and abortion should be a private matter between a woman and her doctor. As with the suffrage struggle, the pro-choice movement involved petitions, presentations, letter-writing, demonstrations and thousands of people.

As in the suffrage fight, Manitoba and Ontario were critical, well-organized and highly motivated. Opposition was small but determined, primarily directed by the Catholic and evangelical churches.

As this was a fight to eliminate existing laws, the police and the judiciary were implicated in the ongoing battle. Raids of clinics took place, and doctors, nurses and volunteers were imprisoned, although only Morgentaler was incarcerated for any period of time.

In an interesting, little-known footnote, Dr. Emily Stowe was charged in 1879 with administering drugs with the intention of aborting a fetus. Her case was thrown out. Morgentaler, on the other hand, had to endure several trials, but no jury ever found him guilty.

The Supreme Court ruling removed abortion from the Criminal Code but advised the federal government to develop new legislation concerning abortion.

The Progressive Conservative government introduced Bill C-43, and it passed in the House of Commons. It went to the Senate for ratification.

After careful planning and strong leadership from Manitoba senators Mira Spivak and Janis Johnson, the Senate tied on the vote, and a tie vote is a defeat. No government since then has dared to open this debate again.

Too much of this history is being forgotten. We ignore or gloss over our past. We undervalue what our ancestors did. It is time we recognized the women who fought so hard to win rights we take for granted.

A lot of the work to bring us democracy and freedom of choice began in Manitoba. This is a history worth remembering and celebrating.

Linda Taylor is a Winnipeg writer with an interest in the history of Manitoba women.
Opinion

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 28/01/2017 (2107 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Donald Trumps first few days as president of the U.S. left me imagining Tylenol executives rubbing their hands in glee over the prospect of skyrocketing sales over the next four years.

Trump delivered an inaugural address that sounded more like his campaign stump speech than the stately addresses of the past. His press secretary earned widespread mockery for steadfastly, yet falsely, claiming the crowd at this address was larger than at any other inaugural address in U.S. history.

Trump gave a poorly received speech to the CIA and falsely claimed Hillary Clinton had been delivered the popular vote by illegal migrants voting in the presidential election. Meanwhile, the womens march turned out massive crowds to protest against Trump throughout the U.S. and around the world.

SUSAN WALSH / THE ASSOCIATED PRESS FILES President Donald Trump (centre) and Vice-President Mike Pence (left) with union leaders in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington on Monday.

Trumps presidency is only days old, but both he and his staff have already stepped on the metaphorical rake time and time again.

But amid all this highly newsworthy hubbub, two other notable things happened. First, Trump moved immediately to keep a campaign promise to scrap the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal, which has long been reviled by U.S. unions.

He then followed this up with a meeting with high-profile construction and building-trade union leaders and rank-and-file members. These union leaders, almost all of whom endorsed Hillary Clinton in the recent presidential election, were strikingly effusive in their praise for Trump following the meeting.

It was by far the best meeting Ive had in Washington, said Sean McGarvey, president of North Americas Building Trades Unions. The respect that (Trump) just showed us  and when he shows it to us, he shows it to our three million members  was nothing short of incredible.

These first few days might remind one of Trumps presidential campaign: raucous, bumbling, a hothouse of pointless drama and scandal. Trump suffered from countless self-inflicted injuries. He was also the target of endless attacks from both his Republican primary challengers and Clinton on his failed business ventures, misogyny and even alleged Mafia connections. Yet at the same time, Trump was somehow breaking through all this to build the support necessary to actually win the election.

In watching Trumps administration, it will be crucial to distinguish between what matters and what doesnt. Some of Trumps actions will entrench or build upon his existing support, whereas others will ding his popularity. But still others, which will certainly be breathlessly reported in the media and condemned on Twitter and elsewhere, will have all the substantive importance of a carnival sideshow. The key will be to not allow the carnival to distract from the outcomes that matter.

Id argue that the size of the crowd at Trumps inauguration, for example, doesnt matter. In contrast, Trumps seemingly successful efforts to break through to a traditional Democratic constituency  unions  matters a great deal.

Trumps courting of unions and their members challenges the Democratic party, but it also provides a clear challenge to what one might call movement conservatism in the U.S., which has provided the ideas that have dominated the Republican party for the last several decades but now faces the prospect of being elbowed aside by Trump and his unorthodox ideas.

One might think of movement conservatism as favouring small government and non-intervention in the economy at home and muscular foreign policy abroad. Trumpism turns much of movement conservatism on its head. Despite being seemingly out of step with the prevailing ethos of the Republican party, Trump was able to secure enough Republican votes to win both the party nomination and the presidency.

Is Trumpism potentially more attractive than movement conservatism, even to the extent that it might supplant the dominant ideas of the GOP? Consider a case study: Trumps negotiation as president-elect with Carrier that resulted in the company announcing it would keep 800 positions at an Indiana plant rather than outsourcing those positions to Mexico, where wages are cheaper. Trump was successful in his personal intervention in Carriers decision, tweeting: I am working hard, even on Thanksgiving, trying to get Carrier A.C. Company to stay in the U.S..

What was the response of movement conservatism to this episode? While many commentators on the right were eager to cut the president-elect some slack, others were more consistent with their principles: Trumps actions would be costly in the long run, since they would provide a new incentive for corporations to seek concessions from government by threatening to move their operations offshore. One headline in Forbes, for example, blared, Donald Trump potentially destroys millions of jobs to save 800.

Is that critique correct? Perhaps. But it hardly matters.

Those 800 jobs are barely a blip within the wider U.S. economy. But those jobs are everything to the 800 employees whose jobs stayed in Indiana, their families and their communities. Trumps direct intervention sends a message to workers in similarly precarious employment situations that, as one of the presidents surrogates put it, help is on the way. Compare the appeal of that message with the detached, theoretical objection of movement conservatism to government intervention in the economy, and the appeal of Trumpism becomes much more discernible.

Royce Koop is an associate professor and head of the department of political studies at the University of Manitoba.
Opinion

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 28/01/2017 (2107 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Health care is the single largest budget item for provinces and territories The federal governments unilateral approach and refusal to engage in a discussion around the importance of a long-term and sustainable partnership on health-care funding should be of concern to every Manitoban. So said Manitoba Health Minister Kelvin Goertzen.

Weve put tens of billions of dollars on the table. Its up to the provinces whether they want that money. That was Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

In other words, take it or leave it. No true negotiations. Despite bilateral agreements between Ottawa and three Atlantic provinces, Saskatchewan and the three territories, the impasse for six provinces (including Manitoba) continues.

DARRYL DYCK / THE CANADIAN PRESS FILES Operating rooms are functioning at less than full capacity due to long closures during vacations.

When the Canada Health Act was passed, it was understood Ottawa would pay half of all health costs. Now it pays only 23 per cent. In the coming fiscal year, thanks to a cut in the annual escalator from six per cent to three per cent, Manitoba will receive $18 million less  a projected loss of $1 billion over the decade.

More important is most provinces are in deficit. Ottawa is facing a $30-billion deficit and by 2031, the total federal debt may reach $1 trillion. There is only one taxpayer for every level of government, and it makes no sense to argue over the amount of transfer payments. The solution does not involve hiring more administrators, nor does it entail laying off more nurses or further rollbacks of physicians fees.

To be fair to taxpayers, patients and health professionals, we must be creative and find new sources of revenue. This requires updating and amending the Canada Health Act.

Frustrated by long wait times and often in severe pain, some Canadians go to the United States for diagnostic and surgical procedures, thereby giving employment to U.S. health professionals and profits to their hospitals.

There has always been a two-tier system. Not everyone has a drug plan, a dental plan or extended health benefits. Canadian professional athletes, politicians, federal prisoners, Workplace Safety and Insurance Board patients and members of the military or RCMP may obtain earlier treatment, often at private facilities. In fairness to those not in special groups or near a border, the Canada Health Act and various provincial laws should be amended to allow all persons to spend their discretionary income on their own health in their own province.

Operating rooms are functioning at less than full capacity due to long closures during vacations. In the past 25 years, wait times have increased by 115 per cent, as indicated by a recent Fraser Institute report.

In a 2013 survey, 64 per cent of Canadian surgeons cited poor access to operating rooms. Dr. Robert Hollinshead found 80 per cent of residents from his Calgary residency training program ultimately left for the United States due to lack of OR time in Canada. If orthopods were given access to additional private OR time, wait times could be shortened for all. To guarantee they did not abandon the public system, they could be required to work a certain number of hours per week in it so as to retain their government reimbursement for malpractice insurance.

With health-care coverage in the U.S. in limbo, now is an opportune time to consider offering elective surgery to Americans and other foreign patients. A joint replacement can run up to US$74,000 in Boston. Meanwhile, a private clinic in Laval, Que., charges only $18,000 to $19,000. Thus, additional operating rooms in Canada should be opened and run on a 24/7 basis.

U.S. President Donald Trump has urged his constituents to buy American and hire American. Yet he also pledged that health care would be his number one domestic priority. Trumps nominee for health and human services secretary, Dr. Tom Price  a retired orthopedic surgeon  will seek cost-cutting measures for Medicare patients. So will private insurance companies. With a 75-cent Canadian dollar, it would be attractive to send American patients to Canada for their elective surgeries. Ottawa should, of course, cover all additional costs of malpractice insurance for these foreign patients and then recoup them from Washington and U.S. insurance companies.

We tend to overlook our ability to provide high-quality care much more efficiently than in the U.S. By modernizing the Canada Health Act so as to permit a limited amount of private medicine, we could maximally utilize expensive equipment. We could provide new employment for nurses, technicians and MDs. There would then be extra revenue  from both inside and outside the country  that would help relieve to the present financial strain on hospitals and on provincial and territorial ministries of health. Our public health-care system would then become sustainable.

Ottawa physician Dr. Charles S. Shaver was born in Montreal. He is chairman of the Section on General Internal Medicine of the Ontario Medical Association. The views expressed here are his own.
Opinion

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 28/01/2017 (2107 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Manitobas premier would probably have an easier time if he would just take a page from his old boss, former prime minister Stephen Harper.

Mr. Harper, during his career as leader of the Conservatives and his tenure as prime minister, did not make it a habit to engage in incendiary language. His relationship with First Nations could at times be characterized as frosty, particularly on issues such as aboriginal education and missing and murdered indigenous women.

But Mr. Harper never found himself on a the wrong side of a microphone denouncing aboriginal people (although he did make the mistake once of using the term old stock, for which he was widely criticized). His language and comportment was for the most part viewed as professional and diplomatic.

JOE BRYKSA / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister

This is something Brian Pallister needs to learn.

A case in point is an interview he conducted with Macleans magazine in which he complained that young indigenous men  a preponderance of them are offenders, with criminal records  are going off shooting guns in the middle of the night. It doesnt make sense.

Mr. Pallister made those comments to the reporter while enjoying his winter home in Costa Rica. It was in followup to an earlier remark he made while in Virden.

In that conversation, recorded by Virdens radio station CJVM, the premier told area residents: Young indigenous guys going out and shootin a bunch of moose cause they can, cause they say its their right, doesnt make any sense to me. This is a poor practice. A dumb practice It should stop. So what are we doing? Were organizing to bring indigenous people together and say the same thing I just said to ya, cause its becoming a race war and I dont want that.

More than anything, Mr. Pallister may have felt he was playing to the crowd  there are some in the room who likely agreed with what he had to say and, given the tone of the newly elected president in the United States, perhaps this type of language has become more acceptable.

But this premier is a smart guy. He knows the right to hunt and fish for indigenous people in Manitoba and elsewhere is constitutionally protected.

In fact, as the Supreme Court decision in R. v. Morris makes clear, aboriginal people have the right to hunt and fish and, if they wish, to hunt at night using techniques such as flashlights. Its one of the concessions Canada made to First Nations in exchange for the territories on which Manitobans farm and live (including Treaty One territory, which includes Winnipeg).

Now, if Mr. Pallister wanted to be smart, he would take a page from his former boss and criticize the Supreme Court for this decision, because thats really where the fault lies. Certainly, Mr. Harper and some of his advisers complained long and hard about judge-made laws that shackle governments from making policy decisions.

Instead, our premier has set off a grenade on the issue of night hunting, completely eradicating any opportunity to have a careful and well-considered conversation with First Nations leaders about rural residents concerns about safety and conservation. This is not something Mr. Harper would ever do.
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 28/01/2017 (2107 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

There may be no safer country than this island of fjords, Bjork and arctic calm.

This is Iceland, where police are often unarmed and people walk safely at all hours of the night  just as Birna Brjansdottir was doing two weeks ago, when she disappeared.

Then her Doc Martens turned up near a dock, and the 20-year-olds blood was found in a car. And then there were drones over Iceland, and helicopters and arrests on the open sea.

ARNALDUR HALLDORSSON PHOTO The spire of Hallgrimskirkja church (right) stands above residential and commercial property on the city skyline in Reykjavik, Iceland.

Then, last Sunday, her body was found on a beach.

Now, there is weeping in the capital and candles in the snow, as a country that has gone full years without murders asks who, why, how?

How can such a thing happen in our peaceful Iceland? a columnist wrote in the Iceland Monitor, which has been following the case beat by beat, like seemingly everyone else on this island of some 330,000 people.

If you are not familiar with the family, you know someone who is, the columnist, Soley Bjork Gudmundsdottir, wrote. This whole affair feels personal.

It has felt that way for nearly two weeks, since security cameras along a downtown street in Reykjavik captured Brjansdottirs last known footsteps.

Brjansdottir zagged down a sidewalk in the predawn hours of Jan. 14  she was just past a breakup, her parents said, and leaving a club after an annual indie band festival.

A kebab in her hand, swaying, she nearly careened into two people, who barely took notice.

She continued down an empty block, auburn hair shimmying on her shoulders, past a storefronts flashing red light.

Then out of the frame. Then nothing.

The very worst things are rare in Iceland, which sees fewer than two murders a year on average, and sometimes none. The Institute for Economics and Peace, an Australia-based think tank, ranks it as the worlds most peaceful country. Icelandic police even apologized after killing a man in 2013  the first time they had ever shot anyone.

Within hours of Brjansdottirs disappearance, people began to worry.

Where is Birna? her mother pleaded, according to the Monitor.

Police asked for help in Icelandic and English.

They traced her cellphone to a town 20 minutes down the coast from Reykjavik, where someone had turned it off, according to the Monitor.

There, they found her shoes in the port.

A coast guard helicopter began to search town and countryside.

Meanwhile, Agence France-Presse reported, another helicopter carried Icelands elite police force out to sea.

They were after the Polar Nanoq, a ship that had set sail from the same port where Brjansdottirs shoes were found, on the same day she went missing.

Two sailors on the trawler had rented a car on the night of her disappearance, police said in the Monitor. She had walked right past the car after leaving the club.

Police seized the ship, along with a stash of hashish on board, and brought it back to Iceland.

When they took the two sailors in for questioning, police put towels over their heads to hide them from the eyes of a nation.

Both men were from Greenland, just across the Norwegian Sea. As news of their arrest and interrogations spread, Iceland President Gudni Johannesson had to warn his citizens against becoming prejudiced against their neighbour.

Brjansdottir had been missing a full week by last Saturday, when Iceland launched what the Monitor called the largest search operation in the countrys history.

The search found nothing, but police found blood in the sailors rented car.

Iceland prepared for the worst.

It came Sunday, when a coast guard helicopter flying over a rocky peninsula spotted something near a lighthouse. A body.

The police believe Birna was murdered in a rental car, the Monitor reported afterward.

On that long, cold night, candles glowed on two sides of the Norwegian Sea  in Icelands capital and outside its consulate in Nuuk, Greenland, the red candles buried in snow.

Everyone in Greenland is talking about this. Every home, everyone on every street corner, a woman told the Monitor.

Not one person that I have spoken to in recent days has been untouched by the case, a journalist wrote in the paper.

And so a country stopped searching for one of its own and began searching for answers.

It has found none so far. But on Monday, the Monitor reported, Icelandic police said they were looking into a possible link between Brjansdottirs death and that of a 17-year-old who disappeared from a quiet town in Denmark last summer and turned up dead in a lake.

Already, those safe northern waters seem colder.

 The Washington Post
The MBDA Regional Honor Band takes place once a year and invites schools from southeast Minnesota to take part in the event. Students are nominated by their directors to be a part of the event. This year, there were seven students to represent Winona Area Public Schools. Three students were from the middle school and four were from the high school.
Sue Karpinski hasnt changed a lot since she was a youngster and her mom jerked on her ear to make her quit fidgeting in church  she still is harder to catch than a mosquito in a butterfly net.

And if you bring up one of her most passionate pursuits, dragon-boat racing, be prepared for a flood of words to pour forth faster than home-made pies disappear at a church picnic.

A perfect example of the 51-year-old Trempealeau County womans zeal for the sport is that she and her husband, Richard, will fly nearly 1,100 miles northeast next month to participate in dragon boat races.

On ice.

The Karpinskis will participate in the inaugural Ottawa Ice Dragon Boat Festival Feb. 17 and 18 in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada  the first ice dragon boat races in North America.

Its crazy  a bunch of crazies who are passionate about dragon boating will find a way to participate in their sport during the winter, said Karpinski, health promotion coordinator at Mayo Clinic Health System-Franciscan Healthcare.

Two teams from throughout the United States  one all women, and the other, mixed  pulled themselves together at the last minute, after a dragon boater saw an ad for the festival and sent out an email to gauge interest, Karpinski said.

The Karpinskis were among those who hit reply with an Im in, along with others from Wisconsin, as well as Maryland, New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont and California.

The Karpinskis will fly to Ottawa on Feb. 16, with practice set for the next day, a session that promises to be interesting because some team members never have paddled  and others, never on ice.

One cant help but smile at a question the Golden State boater sent, asking, OK, how do I dress? How cold is zero? Karpinski said.

Ice dragon boating isnt as easy as falling off a log, but then, neither is water paddling, Karpinski said.

Most water dragon boats have 20 paddlers, a steerperson and a drummer, while ice boats have just 10 paddlers, she said.

Of course, the propulsion is different, too, with ice paddles resembling toilet plungers with spikes for leverage, she said.

The race strategy is different, she said. Look at the stroke  the timing is different on the ice because you have to plant the plunger and push, which takes more time than a water stroke.

Acknowledging aspirations to rise to the level of the national team, Sue gets up at 3 a.m. to train on their home rowing machine.

Im sure it is disturbing at 3 when I get up and it wakes him, she said. Now, I think he just snores through it  dont print that.

Richard, a retired Air Force Reserves veteran who has served deployments in Iraq and Iran, works as an energy specialist in sales for CHS Inc. in West Salem. Both are physically active year-round, with activities including Sue maneuvering her outrigger canoe and Richard, navigating with his kayak.

Sue attributes much of her success in dragon boating to Richards willingness to load up their craft and hit the water during the summer.

He is with me all the way, she said. Without his support, I couldnt be doing this.

An avid runner, Sue credits her interest in that to one of Richards deployments, when he was on weekend duty and got just three days notice that he would be heading overseas.

As loneliness set in during Richards deployment, she said, I started running. It was a way to clear my mind.

Not that physical activity was foreign to her, with her upbringing, education and background in exercise science, with strength and cardiac specialties. Her introduction to paddle boating came through long-time acquaintance Lori Freit-Hammes, Mayo-Franciscans health promotion director, after Sue inquired about a job in La Crosse.

She got me to say I would try dragon boating before she even offered me the job in her department, Sue said, an assertion that Freit-Hammes confirmed.

Immediately hooked at her initial training session on a boat, Karpinski is eminently suited for the sport, Freit-Hammes said.

The sport of paddling is really technical, said the 46-year-old Freit-Hammes, who attended her first dragon boat training camp in Florida about five years ago and now, like Karpinski, aspires to reach the national level of competition.

To get to the next level, you have to be attracted to the discipline required to advance your skills from so-so to advanced techniques, Freit-Hammes said. It requires attention to detail and body awareness."

Both women will attend dragon boat training camps in Florida in April, although in separate weeks, to continue to hone their skills.

Ice dragon boating has the potential to become a sport in the area, Karpinski suggested.

Winter usually results in plenty of ice but, during seasons as warm as this one, she said, We could still have the event on water.
The prosecution in a Baraboo homicide trial introduced evidence Friday that included DNA analyses, recorded interviews, and text messages sent by the defendant in the hours after an October 2015 stabbing.

The messages were recovered from a cell phone that Jae M. Robinson, 29, of North Freedom, stomped on hours after the alleged homicide. He did that while handcuffed at the Baraboo Police Department.

A detective testified during what was the trials fifth day that the phone broke apart when Robinson stomped on it. He snapped it back together before investigators sent it to a technician for analysis.

The analysis recovered messages, some which had been deleted, between Robinson, his girlfriend, and his mother. The exchanges took place hours after a fight that resulted in the stabbing death of 36-year-old Anthony Inman, also of North Freedom.

Prosecutors say Robinson and two friends lured Inman and his friend to the intersection of Walnut and Lynn streets, then ambushed them with blunt force objects. The defense says there was no luring, Inman arrived ready to fight, and he attacked Robinson first with an illegal butterfly knife.

About 20 minutes after the incident, Robinson texted his girlfriend asking to be picked up. Roughly 5 1/2 hours later, he texted her to say that he probably would never see her again.

Robinson also exchanged text messages with his mother, telling her to remember how much he loved her. When his mother asked him about news reports of a stabbing, Robinson responded asking to be picked up at a local pizza place.

Robinsons two friends and one of their girlfriends, who is said to have driven the group from the scene, all have been charged with homicide and battery as parties to a crime. Inmans friend, Anthony J. Peterson, 33, of Mauston, was injured in the fight.

Blood evidence

Rebecca Ciske, a DNA analyst with the Wisconsin Department of Justice, described Friday tests she conducted on blood stains at the scene, from the Jeep in which the group fled, and from the home to which they fled.

One of the four defendants, Christopher L. Nash, 38, of Baraboo, told investigators that Robinson had attempted to start fights with bar patrons while they were drinking together that night. He said Robinson armed himself with a tire iron prior to the fight. But Robinson denied that, telling investigators he was not armed when the fight began.

Ciske testified that, based on her tests, she could not say that Robinsons DNA was on a tire iron found at the scene. Another expert testified that she could not locate any fingerprints indicating that Robinson had touched the tire iron.

Inmans DNA was found on all the blunt force objects allegedly used in the fight, including the tire iron, a BB gun, and a hammer.

A DOJ forensic scientist, Nick Stahlke, testified that Inmans bloody boot prints led from a pool of blood in the middle of the street to the curb where he was found. A photo shown in court pictured Inmans lower half, demonstrating that blood from stab wounds to his abdomen had soaked his jeans.

This indicates that the victim was standing when the blood-letting occurred, Stahlke said, adding that it appeared Inman walked or stumbled to the curb after he was stabbed.

Recorded interviews

The prosecution played recorded interviews of Robinson in which he admitted to stabbing Inman, but claimed he did it in self defense.

He said Inman was chasing him with a butterfly knife, and that he hit Inman and wrestled the knife from him out of fear for his life. Robinson said he only stabbed Inman with his own knife after he continued to attack.

I didnt intend to commit a homicide, Robinson said in one recording, adding that he did not remember everything that happened because he was extremely intoxicated. A detective testified that Robinson was crying and emotional as he described what happened.

Prosecutors say Inman was stabbed 17 times in the chest and back. They also have alleged he had a superficial slice wound across his neck line.

In both interviews, Robinson describes for authorities an area of the Baraboo River where he claimed to have thrown the knife after leaving the scene. Authorities never found the knife.

The trial is slated to continue Monday morning in Sauk County Circuit Court.
Parents of students in Baraboo schools will have the opportunity to examine future educational and career opportunities for their kids Monday night at Jack Young Middle School.

The Baraboo School Districts academic and career planning event will include talks and presentations from local academic and business leaders about how 6th to 12th grade students can prepare for careers before and after graduation.

Its going to focus on those pathways through the high school and beyond, said Baraboo School District Administrator Lori Mueller. The event was scheduled for January because its when students generally select next years classes.

The evening will begin at 6 p.m. in the Jack Young Middle School auditorium with a presentation from school counselors on academic and career planning. They will introduce parents to several career planning resources, including the Career Cruising online platform that allows students to map out different career paths based on their interests.

Our goal as a district is to create as many pathways through the building as possible so that we can meet the diverse needs of our students, Mueller said.

Parents also will hear about a variety of youth apprenticeship options offered at Baraboo High School. Mueller said one program that focuses on technical education connects students with the districts manufacturing partners, which include Teel Plastics, Flambeau, Synergy Metalworks and Baraboo Awning.

The district also offers apprenticeships for business and marketing, Mueller said.

We want to make sure our parents understand that those opportunities are available, she said.

Baraboo School District Director of Teaching and Learning Nick Karls will tell parents about a variety of youth and course options that are available to students as well.

Youth options are offered to all public school juniors and seniors across the state. They allow students to take college courses through public universities for credit. Mueller said many Baraboo students use youth options to earn college credit while in high school.

We have a lot of students who take advantage of that because thats course work that is funded by the school district, she said. In many cases a lot of our students can get a significant amount of credit prior to graduating.

Course options, on the other hand, let any student in a public state school to take two courses at any other public institution. Mueller said Baraboos EMT certification class is a popular course option for students from other districts.

The night also will feature an appearance by UW-Baraboo/Sauk County Student Life and Events Coordinator Paul Butrymowicz, who will give parents a better understanding of what makes a successful university student.

Ill talk about what were looking for in a university student, Butrymowicz said. Things like being involved in extracurricular activities, and were also looking for students who are academically prepared.

The evening will conclude with talks from a panel of local business leaders who will describe what they skills they look for in new employees.

Not all kids go on to post-secondary education, Mueller said. They might go directly into a local worksite, so we want to make sure we provide a diverse array of opportunities.
OAK GROVE  Two men suffered serious injuries early Saturday morning after their vehicle failed to stop at a stop sign and struck a semi tractor on Highway A at Highway W. Highway A was closed for almost four hours while the crash was investigated and the roadway cleared.

According to the Dodge County Sheriffs Office the crash occurred Jan. 28 at 3:24 a.m. in the town of Oak Grove. The preliminary investigation shows that a 24-year-old Horicon man was operating a 1996 Toyota sedan east on Highway W and failed to stop at a stop sign at the intersection with Highway A.

A 57-year-old Watertown man was driving a 2009 Kenworth semi tractor and pulling an empty fuel tank trailer north on Highway A. The Toyota struck the rear wheels of the semi.

The 24-year-old driver of the Toyota and his 24-year-old male passenger from Juneau both suffered serious injuries from the crash. The driver was transported to Beaver Dam Hospital and the passenger was transported to Oconomowoc hospital.

The driver of the semi was not injured.

Dodge County Sheriff Dale Schmidt wrote in a press release that alcohol is believed to be a factor in the crash.

According to the release the names of those involved in the crash will not be released until Monday, Jan. 30.

The Juneau Fire Department and Juneau EMS, Beaver Dam EMS, Wisconsin State Patrol, and the Dodge County Highway Department assisted at the scene.

The crash remains under investigation by the Dodge County Crash Investigation Team.
HORICON  The Jersey Street Music Festival, a free, three-day music festival that takes place each year in Horicons Discher Park, is back and bigger than ever.

The festival will take place June 15 through 17 and will feature bands from across the nation.

The event is hosted by the Horicon Phoenix Program. Dan Buchner, executive director of the Phoenix Program, said this years festival will have a variety of new artists as well as expanded activities.

Buchner said, After last year, as we always do, we got together a couple weeks after to talk about the event. The general sense last year was it is plugging along. It is getting there but we still have a long way to go.

The conversation over the past nine months has been how do we get it to grow? Up until this point it has pretty much been a stand alone music festival with other side events. The focus of Jersey Street has always been original music and that is the thing that will never change. It is always going to be primarily a music festival. But the biggest thing we are doing this year is bringing the carnival back.

Buchner said that the Jersey Street Music Festival used to include a carnival. Jersey Street will be using the same carnival provider that Waupun residents enjoy for their annual Celebrate Waupun event.

People who are familiar with Waupun will know what kind of stuff we are going to have here, Buchner said. It will be every day of the festival. There will be rides and a midway and food trucks. So there will be other things for people and kids to do.

Another change will be another day of music and fun.

We are going back to a three-day event, Buchner said. We are starting the festival June 15, with a Wisconsin Independent Music Showcase. This is probably going to be, for a music lover, something that is really unique. We have selected four bands from different regions of the state. Each of the bands are at a level where they just havent broken out yet, but they are the next generation of talent from Wisconsin.

The Wisconsin Independent Music Showcase will include Skyline Sounds from Madison, Feed the Dog from Oshkosh, Rough Isaac from Milwaukee and The Madpolecats from Madison.

We are excited to support these artists so that they can continue to make new art, Buchner said.

June 16, festival goers can catch bands such as Dexter Road, Brother O Brother, Suck the Honey, Jennifer Hall, Mutts and Blackfoot Gypsies.

Buchner is particularly excited about Jennifer Hall coming to the festival.

We got some feedback that we really needed a fantastic female artist at the festival. Hall has a really powerful voice and presence. We will have a diverse mix of music on Friday, Buchner said.

June 17, visitors can catch Jamfoot, athas, Kyle Megna & The Monsoons, Reality Something, Krazy Stylez, The Traveling Suitcase and Me Like Bees. Buchner said that the festival will host a different kind of artist as well; stand-up comedian and musician Mary Mack. Mack has performed on popular late-night show Conan.

She will do an hour-long set at the festival, Buchner said.

There will be a chalk art competition and petting zoo Saturday along with the small business expo. Horicon Bank will host its annual 5k run/walk for the red, white and blue.

This year there will be a drone race Saturday.

It is going to be a great time, Buchner said.

For more information check out jerseystreetmusicfestival.com, or donate to support the festival by visiting youcaring.com/horiconphoenixprogram-727924.
We here at the Daily Citizen have to walk a narrow path in trying to be objective about things both large and small. The challenging thing is that there is no ultimate truth about anything. I always tell people (the few that will listen, anyway) that we dont report the truth, we report what happened. Those who tout the truth are selling snake oil.

The same holds true for our two-party dominated political system. Republican truth and Democratic truth are two different things, and the facts will undoubtedly lie somewhere in the middle. The fourth estateas journalism is knownreports what happens, and the nations people must decide if leaders are or are not up to the mark.

Despite ongoing criticism  some justified and some not  Donald John Trump has been elected, and the voters who enthusiastically supported him have earned their victory. We must all accept Trump for the leader he has earned the right to be. No matter what the tweets say, or the appointments portend, or the attitudes promote, we must accept him as the duly chosen (by electoral votes, not popular ones) leader of the greatest nation in the world  the United States of America.

Only in America was never more aptly applied.

As president, however, his job is to represent us all, Democrats and Republicans alike. That includes not just the people who voted for him or the party that only now is beginning to embrace him, but everyone.

And despite the Republican majorities, a presidents greatest challenge remains getting people on both sides of the aisle to work together toward the common good. Just because Trump has a majority doesnt mean he isnt answerable to us all. We are all Americans and he is our president.

That does not mean that citizens will not question him, or we will not put opposing viewpoints in the paper. No president has the divine right of a king and no one ever will. If that were the case we would no longer be the country we hope we still are.

As for the present, there has never been the kind of presidential coverage that Trump seems to attract. And for one as hostile to the media as Trump is proving to be, weve got tons of daily coverage on every wire service, newspaper, blog, or any other kind of media known to man. Thats not even mentioning fake news, alternative facts and all the chaos that adds to the equation.

So weve had cartoons about Donald Trumps small hands. (I dont see it as a standout trait, but others do). Weve also got his hair  which is pretty good looking for those of us who are hair impaired.

Barack Obama was teased about his big ears. George W. Bush was taunted for his laugh and his Texas grin. Gerald Ford was demeaned for alleged clumsiness. Jimmy Carter was depictedrather unflatteringlywith huge teeth.

Hey, this is America, and only dictators are allowed to stifle criticism like some of our readers demand. (They know who they are  weve received their complaints). Our readers deserve both sides, and expect nothing less. If they watch Fox News at night, then that is their choice. If they look to Facebook for unbiased news, thats their handicap.

Respect? Yes. A free card? Definitely not!

Weve got a long road ahead, and I hope we will all unite behind our chosen leader. I loved Trumps inaugural speech, because it was focused, smart and stated some things no one other than The Donald would have said.

It almost makes me wish I had voted for him. I did not, making me what diehard Republicans would call an idiot. Well, more than half of America was an idiot right along with me. And calling America half stupid will keep the vast divide in America going to the end of time.

But the time for fighting in families and among friends is over. Arguing over right or wrong, Trump or Clinton, Democrat or Republican is pointless. Republicans may well blurt out their doctrines like theyre the only choice, but we must all question any legislation, and the many and varied side effects every move will produce. There never were any simple answers, despite how many simple minds might endorse them. The Constitution, which applies to us all, must always serve as our guide.

The election is over. The future awaits, and it remains to be seen whether positive change is actually possible. Thats true not just for Washington, or New York, or Madison, or Dodge County, or Beaver Dam.

One thing Ive learned in my time is the surer you are of a thing, the more likely it is to be wrong. Thats life, and the biggest blowhards  be they a president or a bar room drunk  need to be held accountable.

Its the American Way and I hopeas most of us shouldthat he is the best president weve ever had.

If Trumps election is telling us anything, its that the rules have changed. Any party that thinks it has the only answers is living in a fantasy. Weve all been handed a shovel. We can either build a mountain or dig a hole. Of course one might say it takes one to make the other. Thats the challenge, and its not an easy one.

Only time will tell what choices were going to make. But surely, whacking each other over the head with those shovels is no way to start.
In the year of 1879, charter members of the local I.O.O.F. Lodge #290 were installed at Mauston. Names included among the thirty-three men initiated, were Winsor, Dockstader, Boorman, Loomis and Suszycki. Prominent men who helped settle Mauston, and still today, some area streets exist that are named after them.

The Independent Order of Odd Fellows existed in England from the early 1700s. The first American order was established in Baltimore in 1819, and by 1843 they had separated from the England order. The chief purpose of the Odd Fellows is to give aid, assistance, and comfort to its members and their families.

It is a secret society and has its own system of rites and passwords. At its peak, membership in the U. S. exceeded 1.25 million. The three links in its symbol represent: friendship, love and truth.

The Rebekah Lodge in Mauston was formed one year later. This lodge, branch of the Odd Fellows, are chiefly women, with a membership of more than 1 million in the U. S. at one time.

I.O.O.F. Lodge held meetings in the Dockstader Building, then purchased it in 1900. That building was located where the downtown Mauston Bank parking lot is.

September 1914, the Odd Fellows purchased the Langworthy Hall built in 1855, which covered over half a block near where the current Odd Fellows Hall is located. Odd Fellows sold and removed that building from its premises, entered into a contract with H. Gordon of Elroy to build a new structure for the sum of $7,200.00.

June 23, 1915, the cornerstone for the new Hall was laid with appropriate ceremonies. Building completion and dedication was held on November 17, 1915. Much of the inside finish work was done by members.

In the more than one hundred years since the structure was finished, countless events have been held there, some as fundraisers, others as special celebrations for members, families and friends. Many wedding dances held at the hall were well attended due to a usual ad in the local papers inviting everyone to attend. During the mid 1900s, dances for teens were held at the hall a couple times a month.

During the 1950's, the Odd Fellows put Mauston on the state spotlight with Mae Beimel selected at State Assembly President of Rebekahs. In 1954-1955, Grand Master of the Odd Fellows of Wisconsin was Reinhard Walter of Mauston.

In 1958, the state headquarters of the Wis. Odd Fellows and Rebekahs was moved from Milwaukee to Mauston. Nearly 300 people from all over the state attended the open house for the new Grand Secretary office in Mauston. One hundred and four years after founding Lodge #290, the building was sold and Mauston Odd Fellows disband.

For years, the Odd Fellows of Mauston would recite the accolade, "May peace and harmony prevail on this building as long as it has a foundation, is the prayer of all present at this meeting."

I'm grateful to Dr. Peggy A. Dennison and Family, for purchasing, restoring, renovating and giving life to a historic memorable part of the Mauston community. Two Sisters Event Center and Artistic Expressions were established by her.

Since the mid 1970s, the building no longer echos with Odd Fellows and Rebeka activities and ceremonies, however once again Mauston area has the advantage of an ideal center for activities and events. A historic building saved, prime for carrying on with events and functions that make for a great community.
First Weber Realtors in Mauston presented two checks to support two organizations Thursday afternoon.

The first check presented for $5,177.60 went to support the Community Sharing Pantry in Mauston. The food pantry provides over 149,000 pounds of food to over 600 families in need in the Mauston School District.

The second check was presented to the American Cancer Society for $9,009. The total includes the $5,509 raised from the Purple Plunge earlier this month with First Weber Realtors matching the first $3,500 raised from the event.
Portage High School this month had the birthday version of a triple-double.

Three sets of twins at the school celebrated the same birthday on Jan. 13. Two sets are juniors born in 2000  sisters Keeley and Riley OLeary, and a brother-sister set, Ben and Carly Johnson. The other twins are brothers Joe and John Clemmons, seniors born in 1999.

They were all born in Madison, noted Jane Hemming, the schools Family and Consumer Science teacher. Its so funny, she said, I was listening to the announcements, and I have one of each twin in my class.

Most of the twins first learned about this coincidence during birthday announcements two years ago, when this years juniors were freshmen. Understanding we were all the twins, it was really cool, said John Clemmons. I was a little surprised.

I think its definitely rare, said Carly Johnson, and the fact one is both girls, one is both guys and the other is both genders, I think thats pretty rare, too. Its fun and interesting.

I never would have thought this would happen, said Riley OLeary, and it was kind of weird that this was Friday the 13th, too.

Portage High School currently has 11 sets of twins and one set of triplets, the school reported Friday.

So how unlikely is this?

Benedek Valko, a math professor whose main research area is probability at University of Wisconsin-Madison, thought the coincidence was neat enough that he might soon ask his students to calculate the odds as an introductory exercise in his probability course. The school, Valko said, based on its size of about 800 students, should average about 10 sets of twins at one time, since approximately 1 in 80 births result in twins.

That means the approximate probability that three sets of twins at the school being born on Jan. 13 is around 1 in 300,000.

In simple terms, the odds of this occurring again at Portage High School, in your lifetime, are very unlikely. But for the school to have three sets of twins born on the same day  any day  is actually only 1 out of 1,000, Valko said. Its a common mistake in probability that we look at coincidences and underestimate probabilities.

Even with that in mind, the coincidence is noteworthy, Valko said.

The approximate probability that the three sets of twins born on Jan. 13 would each have different gender distributions, which they do, is 1 out of 1.5 million.

But if you take out the Jan. 13 factor and calculate with that distinction for any shared day, your odds improve to 1 out of 5,000.

Someone to rely on

Some similarities exist between the three sets, said Hemming, who has had all six students in her classes. They study hard and theyre polite, she knows. Carly Johnson noted that while the sets are friendly among one another, they have different friend groups.

All of them enjoy being twins.

Bens older than me but sometimes it feels like thats switched, maturity-wise, in some situations, Carly said with a laugh. Having a twin, youre friends with their twins as well.

I love having a twin.

Ben Johnson, by the way, is only 2 minutes older than Carly. That doesnt stop him from reminding Carly of that fact.

Playing the older-sibling card, it seemed, is common among each set.

Keeley is older by about an hour and a half, Riley said of her sister. When it comes to some things she says, Im older. She feels like she can put me under I guess.

Joseph is 20 minutes older, John Clemmons said of his brother. Sometimes he (reminds me), but I dont let it get to me. I say, Yeah, its only 20 minutes.

All six, of course, notice as much the differences in their personalities as they do the similarities.

Carly and Ben havent yet decided what they want in a career, though Carly is pretty sure she wants to go into a medical field.

John this week enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, while Joe plans to study culinary arts at Madison Area Technical College. That difference, John explained, boils down to the fact Joe enjoys school more than he does. Otherwise, he added, they have pretty similar personalities.

Riley and Keeley seem to be the most difficult to tell apart, in personality and appearance, according to them and to Hemming. They each plan to pursue a career in the medical field and they play the same sports.

But I think Im more outgoing and talkative, and Keeley is more shy, Riley said. It has its good and bad, she said of being twins. Im really close to my sister, but a disadvantage is Im not as independent because I know I always have her. I guess I would be more independent if I knew I couldnt rely on her all the time.

Its cool to have somebody whos almost exactly like you, John said. Growing up together, there are good and bad days, days we dont get along, but I know theres always somebody there who stands with me.
It was a Trump speech, said Beth Lesser, a Donald Trump supporter from Greenville, South Carolina, after listening to the presidents Jan. 20 inaugural address on the Mall.

He hasnt changed at all  and I dont want him to.

Lesser was one of the thousands who traveled a long way to come to the inauguration, and who loved what they heard. They didnt come to hear soaring rhetoric from Donald Trump. They didnt come to hear Trump try to sound like Marco Rubio or, God forbid, Barack Obama. They came to hear Trump sound like himself.

Thats what they got. And to them, Inauguration Day was a day of hope.

It brings some hope that were going to have a new direction for the country, that were going to create a real economic recovery, said Rick Fischer, who organized for Trump in Fairfax County, Virginia.

I think this really restores our country to its place in the world as far as a leader is concerned, said Patrick ONeal, of Atlanta.

It means the return of optimism, said Phil Bell, of Vienna, Virginia. Weve had years and years where I personally, and I think a lot of people, have felt simply like we didnt have an opportunity.

Talking to people on the Mall was like entering a universe entirely apart from that of the political commentariat. In the pundits world, Trump delivered a pessimistic and foreboding address, one sure to further divide the nation. The adjective of choice was dark.

Unusually dark, wrote The Atlantic.

Short, dark, and defiant, wrote USA Today.

A dark vision, wrote the Los Angeles Times. There were many, many more.

Where journalists and pundits saw darkness, the people who came to the inauguration saw promise. For example  and this should shock no one who has spent even a minute paying attention to politics  they really liked it when Trump talked about jobs.

Indeed, the biggest applause line in the area where I was standing was when Trump said, We will get our people off of welfare and back to work  rebuilding our country with American hands and American labor.

Where the pundits heard a dark, weird speech (New York magazine) or a dark, raw speech (Vanity Fair), or a dark, hard-line speech (the New York Times), the audience heard the possibility that jobs  not just low-paying service jobs, but better, higher-paying jobs  would come back to their communities.

Its the first time weve been excited and looking forward to a government, said Jay Leone, of Long Island, New York. I think it marks the beginning of a new era, hopefully, for prosperity and jobs and security.

Trumps speech was remarkable in that he spent a significant amount of time bashing the political establishment arrayed behind him on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol. That was just fine with the people standing in front of him.

For too long, a small group in our nations capital has reaped the rewards of government while the people have borne the cost, Trump said. Washington flourished  but the people did not share in its wealth. Politicians prospered  but the jobs left, and the factories closed.

The people who come to inaugurations are a new presidents biggest supporters. Out where I was standing  the podium was far, far away  there were no bigwigs, no people who would have reservations Friday night at Washingtons priciest restaurants. Some had traveled a long way, but a lot were from neighboring Eastern Seaboard states. And many said they believed in Donald Trump from nearly the first day.

Patrick ONeal, a Trump supporter from the get-go, said he booked tickets on Amtrak and made hotel reservations for January 20, 2017 in Washington back in January 2016. He felt that strongly that Trump would win.

On the Mall on Jan. 20, people saw Trumps speech as a ray of sunshine.

It means we have a chance, said Liz Rawlings, of Annapolis, Maryland. We have a chance to move our country forward.
As of Jan. 19, it had been 1,000 days since the city of Flint, Michigan shut off the tap to the Lake Huron water they had been receiving from the Detroit Water and Sewage Department and began drawing and treating water from the Flint River.

City residents still are unable to drink tap water without a filter due to the lead contamination that began when the water supply was switched that day in 2014, the Detroit Free Press reported.

Access to clean water is something we take for granted right up until the moment we dont have it. While adults have the means and the ability to find water elsewhere, children must make use of whatever water their parents or guardians can provide.

Its up to all of us to ensure the safety of the states water supply, especially for Wisconsins children. None of us wants our community to become the next Flint, but when it comes to children drinking lead-contaminated water, some state communities look uncomfortably like that Michigan city.

A report by the Wisconsin Center for Investigative Journalism disclosed that in Milwaukee, 8.6 percent of children tested had blood lead levels at or above the level that indicates lead poisoning in 2014  significantly higher than the 4.9 percent of children tested in Flint in 2015.

But the risk of lead in drinking water goes beyond Milwaukee and spans dozens of communities in the Badger State. Statewide, 4.5 percent of children tested were found to be lead poisoned in 2014.

In Baraboo, some 600 lead pipes  some dating back to the 1880s  are still in use, Baraboo Utility Superintendent Wade Peterson told the News Republic in April 2016. City crews remove them as opportunities arise, at a pace of 15-20 per year. Meanwhile, the city adds a polyphosphate compound to the water intended to coat the pipes and prevent lead from leaching into the supply. Baraboos water contains only minimal traces of lead, at a level well within whats considered safe.

Every year were active in trying to remove as much as we can, Peterson said. Its a slow process.

Its a process that could be improved with more support from the state. Yet, the WCIJ report disclosed that efforts to prevent lead poisoning in children have declined in Wisconsin since 2011.

Funding for the states Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program has shrunk to below optimal staffing, according to a state Department of Health Services budget request that unsuccessfully sought additional funding in 2015-17. While Gov. Scott Walkers administration has increased state funding to partially make up for sharp drops in federal grants, the program remains 23 percent smaller than it was in 2011, and there are no plans to ask for more money in the upcoming 2017-19 state budget.

A proposal to study lead-poisoned infants in Milwaukee to determine whether drinking water was the cause was scrapped by DHS in 2016.

The Flint water crisis has awakened concerned people around the nation as to the safety of their local water supplies. But children in Wisconsin communities already are being affected at or above the level of the children of Flint.

As the Wisconsin Legislature goes through its biennial budget process, we urge legislators to restore funding for the Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program to pre-2011 levels. Take action to protect Wisconsins children.
EnerSys provides various stored energy solutions for industrial applications worldwide. It operates in three segments: Energy Systems, Motive Power, and Specialty. The company offers uninterruptible power systems applications for computer and computer-controlled systems, as well as telecommunications systems; switchgear and electrical control systems used in industrial facilities and electric utilities, large-scale energy storage, and energy pipelines; integrated power solutions and services to broadband, telecom, renewable, and industrial customers; and thermally managed cabinets and enclosures for electronic equipment and batteries. It also provides motive power products that are used to provide power for electric industrial forklifts used in manufacturing, warehousing, and other material handling applications. In addition, the company offers mining equipment, diesel locomotive starting, and other rail equipment. Further, it provides specialty batteries for starting, lighting, and ignition applications in transportation; and energy solutions for satellites, military aircraft, submarines, ships, and other tactical vehicles, as well as medical and security systems. Additionally, the company offers battery chargers, power equipment, battery accessories, and outdoor cabinet enclosures, as well as related after-market and customer-support services for industrial batteries. The company sells its products through a network of distributors, independent representatives, and internal sales forces. The company was formerly known as Yuasa, Inc. and changed its name to EnerSys in January 2001. EnerSys was incorporated in 2000 and is headquartered in Reading, Pennsylvania.
People almost invariably arrive at their beliefs not on the basis of proof but on the basis of what they find attractive.

So said 17th Century French mathematician and philosopher Blaise Pascal. He meant that people are more likely to form opinions based on emotions than evidence.

I thought of Pascals insight as I read several excerpts from PARENTSPEAK: Whats Wrong with How We Talk to Our Children  and What to Say Instead (Workman, 2017) by California parent educator Jennifer Lehr.

The gist of PARENTSPEAK is that seemingly innocuous things parents often say to children  Say thank you, for example  are actually psychologically harmful. Other such apparently toxic comments include Say youre sorry, Give Grandma a kiss and Be careful!

Lehr asserts that comments and instructions of this sort are all about control. Rather than taking time to understand childrens feelings, thoughts, and motivations, parents focus on obedience. Whats to understand? Children do not know what is best for them. Their feelings and thoughts, often a muddle, require as much direction as their behavior. They need adults who will take charge when taking charge is called for.

Lehr relates an incident when she instructed her 4-year-old daughter to thank a friend for having her over for a playdate. Although she did eventually mumble thanks, the daughter looked kowtowed. Lehr is convinced she caused her daughter to feel demeaned and resentful and to conclude that how Lehr looks to others is more important than her (the daughters) dignity.

How does Lehr know this? She doesnt, of course. Pascal would say that Lehrs psychoanalysis of her daughters response to Say thank you is based not on evidence but rather nothing more than Lehrs own emotional state. Furthermore, its the sort of thing that often reflects a lack of emotional boundary between parent and child, also known as co-dependency. My mother  definitely not the co-dependent type  gave me similar instructions when I was a child. I dont recall feeling demeaned or resenting her for lowering my sense of personal dignity. The simple fact is that when it comes to proper manners, children require tutoring until the manners become habit. Proper manners demonstrate respect for others. Therefore, instructing a child in proper manners is good and more accurately called direction, not control.

Besides, theres nothing wrong with obedience to legitimate authority, no matter ones age. Research finds what commonsense confirms: obedient children are happy children; disobedient children are not. In other words, obedience is of great benefit to a child. The inescapable, albeit shocking (to some), conclusion: Children should do what their parents tell them to do, including saying thank you and giving Grandma a kiss before she goes home.

On her website, Lehr identifies as one of her influences the democratic decision-making principals (sic) of psychologist Thomas Gordon, author of Parent Effectiveness Training, published in 1971. Yep, the professional community has been recommending this sort of hogwash for more than forty-five years, during which time child mental health has gone down the tubes. Ironically, the more parents have focused on their childrens feelings, the more difficulty children have had keeping their feelings under control.
BANGKOK  Trudging up a lush mountainside to a remote village, plunging through a swift-moving river in the footsteps of elephants and cruising Bangkok's gleaming luxury malls  with each step, I walked into different worlds, each one beautiful, all in Thailand.

Don't forget glittering temples, bustling night markets and world-famous Thai massages to soothe weary muscles.

Bangkok

The capital's malls and markets are endless, from Siam Paragon, filled with designer brands and an upscale food court, to stands of cheap goods where souvenir-seekers haggle over the price of utensils, bracelets and trinkets. After dark, the night markets come alive, bustling with shoppers grabbing cheap sunglasses and shoes while families and friends enjoy soups and curries in more bearable heat.

Bangkok is also famous for its opulent temples, including Wat Pho, Temple of the Reclining Buddha, with its stair-step monuments to royalty called chedis, similar to stupas. The centerpiece is a massive horizontal Buddha, its gold girth touching the temple walls from end to end.

Next door at the white-walled Grand Palace complex, black-clad mourners waited in snaking lines to pay their respects to King Bhumibol Adulyadej. The beloved leader died in October after a 70-year reign  his image ubiquitous on billboards and shrines.

The complex also houses Thailand's most sacred temple, Wat Phra Kaew, or Temple of the Emerald Buddha, with sparkling, gold-decked buildings. The surprise was the size of the famed Buddha figure, carved from jade and dressed in gold, but just 26 inches high.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai's walled old city houses more famous temples, including Wat Chedi Luang. Its towering red brick is worn to black, its steps have all but crumbled, but stone dragons still stand guard.

My favorite temple, moss-covered Wat Pha Lat, is tucked in a forest just outside Chiang Mai. From the university, I got there by hiking Monks Trail, which is marked by strips of orange fabric. Head farther up the mountain to popular Doi Suthep temple or hail a songthaew, a shared taxi.

Hungry after hiking? Hit the street vendors and restaurant options that abound back in the tourist center: vegetarian-friendly green curried rice, fried mushrooms and pad thai, plus plenty of beef and pork speared on sticks for meat-eaters. To cool off from the heat or spice, try fresh-cranked pomegranate juice or coconut ice cream.

Trekking

Chiang Mai is the jumping-off point for trekking, elephant tours and other outdoor adventure. A friend and I booked an ecotour trek and overnight home stay in a village some 4 hours away in the Mae Hong Son region. The Karen ethnic group lives there, farming rice and cabbage on vibrant green hillsides. Our guides cut down wild passion fruit for us to sample, pointed out spiders as big as a hand and chopped bamboo to whittle into cups. After reaching the mountaintops near the Myanmar border and making it to the village, we used those cups to slug homemade rice liquor.

We set up a bed of blankets on the wooden floor and rested between bags of rice as our hosts cooked dinner in a hearth built into the floor. Sleeping in a home open to the elements was the only time I got cold on the trip, and the only place I skipped a shower, passing up a tub of chilly water in an outhouse with a squat toilet.

Elephants

I wanted to enjoy these majestic creatures, iconic in Thailand but often exploited, in an ethical way. The Elephant Nature Park allowed us to travel alongside them, not on their backs. We kept them moving through the jungle by thrusting bananas and melon into their eagerly outstretched trunks. It was surreal and a bit unnerving as we led four mostly blind and elderly female elephants on a muddy, uneven path, trying to keep our balance while avoiding their feet. In another part of the sanctuary, we got a peek at a baby elephant.

Phi Phi Islands

After trekking, we looked forward to decompressing on an otherworldly beach on the Phi Phi Islands  pronounced "pee pee." But rain was falling as we arrived and promised not to let up.

Instead of the party-hearty main town on Ko Phi Phi Don, the largest island, we opted for a secluded resort. A long-tail boat plowed through choppy waters to get us there, leaving us windblown and wet from ocean spray and rain as we tried to photograph the green-topped rock rising from the Andaman Sea.

The weather cooperated enough the next day for a group tour to the smaller island, Koh Phi Phi Leh, and its hotspot, Maya Bay, which is breathtaking but overrun after the movie "The Beach" made it famous. Even early in the day, it was tough to find a spot free of people posing with selfie sticks.

Nearby, we reveled in an empty swath of sand framed by cliffs before winding through rock formations to the Blue Lagoon, a green-walled swimming hole packed with tourist boats.

After the beaches and long days in the devout atmosphere of temples, without blinking, our nights turned to buying knockoffs of favorite overpriced sandals, swigging 70 baht ($2) beer and watching men in elaborate makeup and sequined ball gowns perform a dance in a packed outdoor market.

That's Thailand, country of contrasts.
South Jersey Industries, Inc., through its subsidiaries, provides energy-related products and services. The company engages in the purchase, transmission, and sale of natural gas. It also sells natural gas and pipeline transportation capacity on a wholesale basis to residential, commercial, and industrial customers on the interstate pipeline system, as well as transports natural gas purchased directly from producers or suppliers to customers. As of December 31, 2021, the company had approximately 147 miles of mains in the transmission system and 6,815 miles of mains in the distribution system; and served 384,062 residential, commercial, and industrial customers in southern New Jersey. In addition, it markets natural gas storage, commodity, and transportation assets on a wholesale basis for energy marketers, electric and gas utilities, power plants, and natural gas producers in the mid-Atlantic, Appalachian, and southern regions of the United States. Further, the company owns and operates rooftop solar-generation sites. Additionally, it owns oil, gas, and mineral rights in the Marcellus Shale region of Pennsylvania; acquires and markets natural gas and electricity to retail end users, as well as provides total energy management, fuel management, and energy procurement and cost reduction services. The company was founded in 1910 and is headquartered in Folsom, New Jersey.
First batch of royal Georgian papers released

Royal history Royal Librarian Oliver Urquhart Irvine shows Queen Elizabeth II items from the George III Collection at the launch of the Georgian Papers Programme at Windsor Castle's Royal Library. Karin Wulf, director of the Omohundro Institute of Early American History & Culture and William & Mary history professor, and Steve Hanson, W&M vice provost for international affairs and director of the Reves Center for International Studies, are in the background. PA Images

Royal history "When we examine the Annals of the World from the beginning of Government unto this day, we shall find the generality of nations groaning under the yoke of Despotism," wrote King George III in this draft of an essay that he wrote and rewrote a number of times. Royal Archives

Royal history Queen Elizabeth II greets Baroness Blackstone, chair of the British Library, while attending the launch of the Georgian Papers Programme at Windsor Castle's Royal Library. Steve Hanson, William & Mary vice provost for international affairs and director of the Reves Center for International Studies, is on the far right. PA Images

Royal history Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, at the Wren Building in 1957. They were the first reigning monarchs to visit the university. Courtesy Swem Archives

Royal history William & Mary Libraries staff and faculty visit Windsor Castle in 2016, meeting with the royal librarian and Georgian Papers project manager. From left: Kim Sims, W&M university archivist; Debbie Cornell, W&M Libraries head of digital services; Oliver Urquhart Irvine, royal librarian; Carrie Cooper, W&M dean of university libraries; Tami Back, W&M Libraries director of communications and strategic planning; Nick Popper, W&M associate professor of history; and Oliver Walton, Georgian Papers Programme project manager and curator. Courtesy W&M Libraries

Royal history "The number of troops to be employed in North America will probably exceed 38,000 men," noted King George III in this memorandum on the requirements for war in America. Royal Archives

Royal history Royal Librarian Oliver Urquhart Irvine shows Queen Elizabeth II items from the George III Collection at the launch of the Georgian Papers Programme at Windsor Castle's Royal Library. PA Images

Royal history A view of Windsor Castle, where the iconic Round Tower houses the more than 350,000 documents that are being digitized and provided to the public freely through the Georgian Papers Programme. Tami Back

Royal history Local children greet Queen Elizabeth II at William & Mary in 2007. File photo

Royal history This lock of hair was included in a letter penned by Queen Charlotte following the death of one of her younger sons, Alfred, and sent to Lady Charlotte Finch, governess to the royal children. Royal Archives

Royal history Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, and Queen Elizabeth II at William & Mary in 1957, during her first visit. She would return 50 years later. Courtesy Swem Archives Photo - of - Hide Caption

William & Mary, Omohundro Institute are primary U.S. partners on colossal digitization project

For researchers, the nearly half-million royal documents housed in Windsor Castles iconic Round Tower arent quite the Holy Grail of archives, but they arent far off.

The first phase of the Georgian Papers Programme  roughly 33,000 digitized documents, including some penned by King George III regarding the American Revolution  will be publicly released and accessible at no cost beginning Saturday, Jan. 28.

The program represents a partnership between, on the American side, the Omohundro Institute of Early American History & Culture and William & Mary, with leading British partners the Royal Archives, Royal Library and Kings College London.

In America, the Georgian Papers website is georgianpapers-us.wm.edu, which also features more information about the project, related research, news, events and fellowship opportunities.

The goal is to digitize and release by 2020 the more than 350,000 documents related to Kings George I, II, III, IV, William IV and other members of the royal family, along with politicians, courtiers and others. Only 15 percent of the papers, spanning 1714 to 1837, have been previously published, mostly in editions.

The project was launched in April 2015 by Queen Elizabeth II, who has twice visited William & Mary  once in 1957 and again 50 years later for the 400th commemoration of the founding of Jamestown.

Her Majesty fully supports the work currently underway to make the historic treasures of the Royal Archives widely accessible to the world through digital technology, said Royal Librarian Oliver Urquhart Irvine. Having the Omohundro Institute and William & Mary as our primary U.S. partners as the program develops is essential in bringing academic rigor, depth and context to the interpretation of key papers that will shed new light on the emergence of the United States of America itself.

Mystery in the Round Tower

To recognize the significance of the Georgian Papers Programme, its helpful to understand the choreography of researchers who want to view primary documents in archives and special collections worldwide, explained Karin Wulf, W&M history professor and director of the Omohundro Institute.

Researchers begin by finding the relevant documents theyd like to view listed in the online catalog for the archives or the special collection. They register at the archive, placing their personal belongings in lockers before entering a supervised reading room. Because of security concerns, researchers are often allowed only to bring in a laptop computer and cell phone to photograph documents.

So thats what its like to work in a typical reader-access-oriented special collection or archival library. Now, Windsor Castle and the Royal Archives are nothing like that, Wulf said.

The original goal was to preserve the material of the royal family, she explained. Their goal was a little like whatever you do with your grandmothers letters  except their grandmother and great-grandfather just happen to be monarchs. Its really this private archive, just of the royal family.

As such, the materials have not been fully cataloged, so over the years researchers and authors made educated guesses at what was in the Round Tower and then wrote to the queens private secretary for permission to view materials. Logistically, the Round Tower is not set up for reader services.

All of this means that there were a very limited number of people they really could accommodate, Wulf said.

Now, the digitization part of the Georgian Papers Programme will have each document scanned and photographed to create a high-resolution image, transcribed and tagged with descriptions and metadata allowing researchers to not only search the archive but to study and recombine it in new ways  the kind of new digital humanities work that you cant do with a paper edition, Wulf said.

Historians have some expectations about what is included in the collection based on known correspondence, global affairs and what has already been published. And Wulf noted there are certain documents that could only be housed in the Round Tower.

Scholars are really salivating as this has come to light and more and more people have learned that there are treasure troves of documents to go through, said Stephen Hanson, W&M vice provost for international affairs and director of the Reves Center for International Studies.

Indeed, the project and some of its findings are the subject of a BBC Two documentary, George III: The Genius of the Mad King, released this month.

The program promises to deepen historians understanding about Britains role in the world, including its relationships with Colonial America, the fledgling United States and other European countries. Scholars also expect insights into British politics, the Enlightenment, science, food, artistic patronage, life at court, the education of royal children and more. The Royal Library is also augmenting the Georgian Papers with another 100,000 pages of its own manuscript material.

Were gratified that Kings College said that the Omohundro Institute are the people to work with and pleased that the Georgian Papers Programme recognized OIs leadership in early American scholarship, Wulf said.

Royal archive and colonial college

The roles of William & Mary and the Omohundro Institute are multi-pronged.

For the digitization project, the papers are being physically scanned in England, not exported overseas. But once a digital image is ready, students funded through W&M Libraries are working on transcribing the documents and tagging them with searchable and descriptive metadata. W&M Libraries staff members are also providing consultation for the project, working closely with the Omohundro Institute and the British partners on archival, technical and communications aspects of the project.

This project provides a unique opportunity to work on an international digital project, setting standards for cataloging and digitization that will contribute to the ever-evolving role of libraries in the digital age, said Carrie Cooper, W&Ms dean of university libraries. The lessons we learn from this project will inform our work as we embark on digitizing, transcribing and making discoverable unique items in our own collections like the James Monroe Papers, diaries from the Civil War and the Robert Gates Papers. Digitizing our original collections and making them accessible to scholars worldwide is crucial to advancing scholarship.

The Omohundro Institute, recognized globally as the leader in early American historical studies, is deeply embedded in the program. With funding through its Lapidus Initiative, it has committed to support up to eight research fellowships annually. The first were funded in 2015, along with additional fellowship paid for through Kings College London.

As the research fellows rotate through Windsor Castles Round Tower, they help to illuminate whats in the archive for historians coming behind them. They will also document their findings on the American and British Georgian Papers portals in detailed blog posts.

In 2015, Omohundro Institute-sponsored fellows researched authors of African descent at the Georgian Court and the imperial politics of Scottish emigration to revolutionary America.

Last year, they delved into the early years of the Revolutionary War, the political and colonial schemes of Lord Bute (King George IIIs closest adviser), the patron-client relationship between first minister Lord North and King George III, and European geopolitics and British foreign policy in pre-Revolutionary America.

Included in the essays written by King George III are subjects like architecture, military tactics, constitution, all topics, said Nick Popper, associate professor of history at William & Mary and member of the Omohundro Institutes Council. There will be something like 300 essays as part of the initial release, partly because they are among the most appealing sources [of future dissertations and books] that are going to emerge from this.

In addition to the digitization and fellowships, the project also includes annual conferences, symposia and other events on both sides of the Atlantic. Already the project has promoted a fair bit of intercontinental travel, with faculty and staff from the Omohundro Institute and William & Marys Reves Center and Libraries visiting London and Windsor and personnel from the Royal Archives and Kings College London visiting W&M and Washington, D.C.

Next year, the Reves Center is funding a research trip, led by Popper, taking a number of W&M history students to London and the Round Tower. Other history professors are also integrating the Georgian Papers material into their classes at William & Mary this spring.

When the project initially launched, in 2015, it did so with a special event at Windsor Castle that had Queen Elizabeth II viewing documents from the archive. Both Hanson and Wulf were in attendance. At the launch, Wulf told the queen that, as an 18th-century scholar, she was ecstatic to be part of a project presenting the Round Towers holdings to the world.

Having an opportunity to see the Georgian materials in the Round Tower was an extraordinary experience. I told her I levitated with excitement and that they had to drag me out, Wulf said. She laughed and asked if the Omohundro Institute is on the actual William & Mary campus.

I said of course it is.




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Cumberland High School sophomore Hailey Hendricks is trying to raise $50,000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society during its annual Student of the Year fundraising contest.
Contracts signed for completion of Mochovce

16 June 2009

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Contracts have been signed with the main suppliers for the project to complete units 3 and 4 at the Mochovce nuclear power plant in Slovakia.

Mochovce units 3 and 4 (Image: SE)

On 11 June in Bratislava, in the presence of Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico, utility Slovenske Elektrarne (SE) signed the relevant contracts for the completion of the two units with the suppliers of the nuclear island: a consortium led by Skoda JS and including Russia's AtomStroyExport (ASE) and three Slovakian suppliers.

Contracts dealing with the engineering, construction and project management of the conventional island were signed with Italy's Enel Ingegneria & Innovazione.

Also present at the signing ceremony were representatives of Areva-Siemens, which will supply the instrumentation and control (I&C) systems, and Skoda Power, which will supply the steam turbines.

In May 2008, the consortium led by Skoda JS - which includes ASE and Slovak suppliers Vyskumny Ustav Jadrovej Energetiky (VUJE), Enseco and Inzinierske Stavby Kosice - submitted a bid to the tender for completing the nuclear islands at units 3 and 4 of Mochovce.

Skoda JS, a subsidiary of Russia's OMZ Group, said that its contract to supply key systems for Mochovce units 3 and 4, worth more than $520 million, represents "a great success that underlines the leading position of the company among Czech suppliers of large investment units." It added, "Contraction of this project guarantees development and expansion in the field of nuclear power industry in future years. It will also enable raising up a new generation of specialists, who will subsequently apply their skills and knowledge within the planned construction of new units at Temelin, Bohunice and Dukovany."

Construction of the four-unit Mochovce nuclear power plant was commenced in 1981 by Skoda, using Russian-design VVER 440/213 pressurized water reactor units. Work on units 3 and 4 was started in 1986 and halted in 1992. The first two were completed in 1998 and 2000, respectively, to supply 440 MWe each. Units 1 and 2 have been significantly upgraded and the instrument and control systems replaced with assistance from western companies. Units 3 and 4 - also VVER-440 units - have remained partly built.

In October 2004, the Slovak government approved Enel's bid to acquire 66% of SE as part of its privatization process. Enel's subsequent investment plan, approved in 2005, involves 1.88 billion ($2.75 billion) investment to increase generating capacity, including 1.6 billion ($2.3 billion) for completion of Mochovce units 3 and 4 by 2011-12. In January 2006, the government approved a new energy strategy incorporating these plans.

In February 2007, SE announced that it would proceed with Mochovce 3 and 4 construction, and that Enel had agreed to invest 1.8 billion ($2.6 billion) on this with a view to operation in 2012-13. SE has already invested 576 million ($844 million) in the two units. The government is depending substantially on the original 1986 construction permit including environmental clearance, which is now being challenged, with the need for a full new environmental impact assessment under EU law being asserted.

Skoda JS said that work on the project would begin this month. Unit 3 is scheduled to be completed in February 2013 and unit 4 is set to be finished in October 2013. Once in operation, the four reactors at the Mochovce plant will supply some 45% of Slovakia's power demand.
After a long morning of wrangling over a pending proposal to weaken its filibuster protections, the Legislature on Friday decided to give senators a week to try to privately negotiate a compromise.

The approaching battle brought legislative business to a halt as opponents ran the clock with extended debate over housekeeping motions allowing senators to formally withdraw bills they no longer wish to sponsor.

Friday's decision to take a timeout ended a week of slow-walking consideration of legislative rules in an effort to head off any proposed change in filibuster provisions.

Waiting in the wings is a rules proposal authored by Sen. Tyson Larson of O'Neill that would require the vote of at least 20 of the Legislature's 49 senators to be able to continue debate on legislation once a cloture motion has been filed to end a filibuster.

The current rule requires that at least 33 of the 49 senators would need to vote for a cloture motion to end debate.

The practical impact of the proposed change would be to increase the threshold of senators required to sustain a filibuster from 17 to 20 and that, in turn, essentially would weaken the power of the nonpartisan Legislature's minority of senators who are Democrats or who classify themselves as moderates or progressives.

The Legislature is composed of 32 Republicans, 15 Democrats, one Libertarian and one independent.

"It's an effort to silence the minority," Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks of Lincoln said.

As legislative business ground to a halt Friday, Sen. Adam Morfeld of Lincoln said he is "prepared to discuss these rules the rest of the session" while making sure the Legislature fulfills its fundamental responsibility to enact a biennial state budget.

Both Pansing Brooks and Morfeld are Democrats.

"I will be part of the effort to maintain our rules as long as it takes," said Omaha Sen. John McCollister, a Republican.

The pending rule proposal would "change the basic character of this institution," McCollister said, "and that's worth defending."

Larson, whose proposal was delayed from even being offered on the floor because of Friday's debate, said "we are being held hostage."

Freshman Sen. Steve Erdman of Bayard, expressing frustration over the slow pace of the Legislature, said: "I've been here 17 days and (we) haven't done squat."

A number of senators pointed out that the minority in a filibuster dispute sometimes is composed of senators who are Republicans and who describe themselves as conservatives.

Speaker Jim Scheer of Norfolk recessed the Legislature late in the morning in an attempt to reach a compromise agreement off the floor. That subsequently led to the decision to postpone the issue until Feb. 7, clearing the path for opening debate on revisions to the current biennial state budget Monday.
Forbes, by Elizabeth MacBride

Building on the planned Karm Solar startup campus in Egypt. Photo: Karm Solar

CAIROAbout a half-million solar panels were installed every day around the world last year, according to the International Energy Agency. Costs for solar photovoltaics are expected to drop by 25% by 2020, making solar  already competitive  cheaper than other forms of energy in many cases.

Smart entreprepreneurs will get ahead of that curve. In Cairo, I met the CEO and chief architet of a company, Karm Solar, that has been in the forefront of solar since 2011  back when solar was in the doldrums. I first read about Karm Solar in Startup Rising, a book by U.S.-based venture investor Christopher M. Schroeder.

Karm Solar has come a long way since then. Now that the company has recurring revenue that comes from its construction of solar power stations and sale of the power, Ahmed Zahran said he expects the company to be profitable this year. Its the only company in Egypt with a license to do those installations; Karm then sells power to businesses. It also leases solar power installations, working with EFF Hermes Leasing to set up financing for customers.

Karm Solar, which now has 52 employees, aims to raise $70 million from institutional investors this year. It's a model of one method of scaling up: by diversification.

Back in 2011, Ahmed Zahran, 36, couldnt get his employer to invest in his idea for solar-powered water pumps. They seemed a no-brainer to him in the Egyptian desert, where there is a lot of water under the ground and plenty of sunshine on top of it.

So he and about half a dozen co-founders, raised money from 20 angels, in increments ranging from $10,000 to $1 million. They looked for people who could give them advice as well as cash.

Along with branch of the company producing the water pump  the revenue generating arm, with eight clients  the company has a design/build branch focusing on eco-friendly structures. It recently completed a $1.1 million workers village in the desert for an herb farm. Built with local stone, the village is carbon neutral. We reduced the amount of bricks and construction by 85%, Zahran said.

It uses 78 kilowatts of solar power. Cooking is the only thing that runs on natural gas.

Making solar panels pretty

How we design buildings matters, said Karim El Kafrawi, principal architect. If we can design them in a more eco friendly way so we can reduce our reliance on artificial cooling and heating, its easier to supply entirely with renewable energy.

Karm Solar also hoping to put a new spin on solar, making it attractive. In this, theyre following the lead of Elon Musk, who has introduced solar panel roof tiles. But the Middle East doesnt have pitched roofs  which means it needs a different approach.

One of the obstacles to solar panels is the looks, said El Kafrawi. Designers are reluctant to incorporate panels.

With an alliance with an woman-owned Egyptian design brand, Azza Fahmy, which will help it design buildings and solar mountings, Karm Solar hopes to change that. "The first building "Azza Fahmy Building" will actually be the KarmSolar Campus in Sahl Hasheesh (south of Hurghada) where we will have our R&D and part of our operations," Zahran said by email.

Though he is aiming high, Zahran is realistic about the challenges that face his company. So far, its been lean: Its burned through $7.5 million to get to profitability, a small amount from a world point of view, but much larger, of course, in Egypt. The financing has been half debt and half equity. But Egypt has its upsides, too, starting with the size of the domestic market of 90 million.
The Rev. Raleigh Peterson died Jan. 21 at 104.

The longtime Nebraska minister had served as dean of the former Cotner College and was instrumental in forming the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Department of Religion, which has since consolidated with the Philosophy Department. The university has an endowed chair in Petersons name.

Born Jan. 9, 1913, Peterson grew up on a small farm near Junction City, Kansas. Then, the world was fretting over threats of World War I. Peterson was too young to recall this time specifically, but he noted in a 2013 Journal Star interview that the state of the world influenced his dedication to pursue peace and justice as a Disciples of Christ minister, biblical scholar, professor, author and activist.

He said then that his secret to longevity was simple: ... I am relaxed. Most of my decisions are made on the philosophy, If it can be done tomorrow, why do it today.'"

Of course, he was joking.

As his daughter Mary Frederick recalls, he was always busy -- working at the college Monday through Friday and then traveling to churches across the state to lead Sunday worship services.

Peterson arrived in Lincoln in 1946, one of three faculty hired to the newly revived Cotner College, a school dedicated to teaching ministers and laypeople how to meet the needs of rural churches.

He stayed at the college for 32 years, serving as registrar, professor, dean, director of the school of religion and eventually dean emeritus when he retired from the classroom in 1978.

When he was at Cotner College, his goal was to have the college swooped up by the University of Nebraska and become the Department of Religion, his daughter recalled.

That happened in 1987, through the endowed chairmanship.

Later the university took the Department of Religion and squished it with the Department of Philosophy, she said.

But there is still an endowed chair, to which the family is directing memorials.

Raleigh Peterson devoted his life to righting the wrongs of injustice, and he prided himself in crossing denominational and religious lines to help people discover their commonalities and unite in pursuit of peace and justice.

During the Vietnam War, he helped organize a weekly Tuesday protest on the UNL campus, which ultimately led to the founding of Nebraskans for Peace, one of the oldest statewide peace and justice organizations in the country.

Peterson was a man of conviction, taking on the 10,000-member Disciples of Christ General Assembly to fight racism within. Another time, he put a stop to a heated debate over abortion because women were not included in the discussion.

In 2013, Peterson said his efforts and life have always been defined by Christs teachings.

There should be justice, if not peace, Peterson said. You cant have peace if you have injustice -- they go together.

Peterson died in his sleep on Jan. 21. Until six months ago, he lived independently at Eastmont Towers. During his final months, he moved upstairs to nursing home/assisted living, his daughter said.

He was so much in love with my (late) mother, Olive, that he dreamt about her all the time, Mary Frederick said. One night, he dreamt so vividly, that when he woke up and she wasnt there he panicked and was wandering up and down the halls looking for her. And he got lost.

Thats when he agreed it was time to move upstairs, she said.

In addition to his daughter and her husband Jim Frederick, he is survived by daughter Bethany Peterson Ball of Wisconsin and her husband, Michael, and son, Timothy Peterson, of Lincoln; granddaughter Katharine Bodan of Vermont; and great granddaughter Dempsey Bodan.

A memorial service will be at 10:30 a.m. March 4 at Bethany Christian Church,1645 N. Cotner Blvd. A light luncheon will follow.
Conservative Prime Minister Theresa May claims that the June 23, 2016 referendum vote to leave the European Union will be the basis for raising British workers living standards.

Outlining the governments plans for Brexit last week, she said, We will take this opportunity to make Britain stronger, to make Britain fairer, and to build a more Global Britain too.

Speaking earlier this month at the World Economic Forum, the annual gathering of billionaires in Davos, Switzerland, she told the assembled financial speculators and political representatives of the capitalist class, We must never forget that our first responsibility as governments it to serve the people. Post-Brexit Britain would be a country that works for everyone... a Shared Society, one that doesnt just value our individual rights but focuses rather more on the responsibilities we have to one another.

Those in attendance all knew May was lying through her teeth. The first act of international diplomacy performed by May in her quest for a fairer Britain was to visit US President Donald Trump, whose concept of fairness involves the appointment of a cabinet of billionaires and generals to preside over policies of trade war and militarism abroad and an assault on social services at home. Among his first major policy announcements was the confirmation that, in the name of putting the American worker first, he will build a wall along the southern border of the United States and deport millions of Mexican immigrants.

May echoed Trump when she made clear that her own plan to put British workers first was based on a clampdown on migration from Europe. Her efforts to secure a trade deal with the US, China and other countries depends on a further lowering of British workers living standards and a heightening of their exploitation.

This will be no mean feat. Britaindue to the pro-business agenda that successive Labour and Tory governments have imposed over three decadesis already one of the most unequal societies in the world.

Poverty

According to the 2015 Breadline Britain study, 20 million peoplea third of the UK populationlive in poverty. One in five people lives below the official poverty line. Over half a million people use food banks. The End Child Poverty coalition report states that 3.7 million children live in poverty.

Inequality

In England, between 2012 and 2014 there was a 60 percent increase in the number of poor households. The top 10 percent of householdsall worth more than 1 millionsaw their wealth grow three times faster than the bottom 50 percent. The top 1 percent possess as much wealth as the poorest 57 percent.

Wages

Since the 2007/2008 global financial crisis, UK workers have suffered the largest fall in real wages among leading Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries. Nearly a million people are officially on zero-hour contracts, receiving poverty pay with no guaranteed hours of work.

Health care

The National Health Service is being privatised and eviscerated. More than 40 billion in cuts is planned from 2010 to 2020. In 2014, the UKat 9.9 percent of GDPspent less on health care than the United States, Japan, France and Germany. Of the G7 countries, only Italy spent a smaller percentage of GDP than the UK in 2014. In 2015, the Health Foundation charity stated that UK health spending would fall from 7.3 percent of GDP to just 6.7 percent by 2020.

Public spending

Public spending has been cut to levels previously not seen in peacetime. Around 100 billion in cuts are to be imposed from 2010 to 2019. By 2019, 1.3 million public-sector jobs will have been destroyed. School age education in England faces an 8 percent cut in funding per pupil by 2019-20 as a result of 3 billion in cuts. Homelessness in England alone has risen to over 250,000. This will get dramatically worse as by 2020 the 18 billion central government grant to local authorities is to be phased out.

Welfare benefits

The UK benefits system has been slashed, with millions driven off the welfare rolls. In 2014, the Council of Europe found that the level of UK benefits paid in pensions, jobseeker's allowance and incapacity benefit was "manifestly inadequate," as it fell below 40 percent of the median income of European states. Short-term incapacity benefit stood at just 71 a week, Employment Support Allowance and Job Seeker's Allowance stood at 67 per week, and the state pension was just 102 a week. They have barely risen since.

May and her pro-Brexit cabinet claim that the social crisis is the exclusive result of excess immigration, when in reality it is the outcome of deliberate government policy by Labour and the Conservatives. The aim of policy has been to redistribute wealth from working people to the super-rich.

In her London Brexit speech, May threatened that she would change the basis of Britains economic model if the UK was not granted unlimited access to European markets after it exits the EU. Central to this is a pledge to lower corporation tax in order to lure transnational corporations away from the UKs European rivals.

Britains corporation tax currently stands at 20 percent and will be reduced to 19 percent from April. From 2020, it will be 17 percent. The UK already has the lowest corporation tax rates among G8 countries, and last November, May said the UK aimed to have the lowest corporate tax rate in the G20. This followed the announcement by previous chancellor George Osborne that a rate of 15 percent was the goal.

Even this is now considered an obstacle to attracting global corporations, under conditions of escalating trade war. Last October, the Brexit-supporting Daily Express revealed, Theresa May could be set to slash corporation tax by half on the basis of a secret plan, in which the UK would cut the rate to 10 percent if EU rivals decided to block a free trade deal with the UK.

This rate is comparable with those that exist in Eastern European countries such as Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria and Hungary, where immense levels of poverty are the norm and there is no social safety net.

Corporation tax brought in 43 billion in 2015. Under the flag of being globally competitive, additional cuts of over 20 billion would be neededmeaning the destruction of what little remains of welfare provision and essential social services.

Behind the talks with Trump over trade deals, what is really being worked out is a way to complete this social counterrevolution. Mays visit was organised by the most rapacious, far-right sections of the US and British bourgeoisie. Before leaving the UK, she refused to rule out a trade agreement that would open up the NHS and the public sector to US private corporations.

This is in line with the real model for Brexita Singapore-style tax haven off the shore of continental Europe. Singapore, the country most highly regarded by former Labour Prime Minister Tony Blair, has one of the highest rates of social inequality in the developed world.

The aims outlined by May mean returning the conditions of the working class to the Victorian era. One thing is certain: this is incompatible with her call for national unity.

That is why May refused to be drawn in, in response to Trumps thuggish declaration that torture absolutely works and he was prepared to sign an executive order reinstating black site torture facilities. Instead, she boasted that Britain and America now have the opportunity to lead together again.

It should be noted that the day before May left the UK, almost 40 percent of Tory MPs (127 individuals) supported a backbench motion demanding even more restrictive laws against industrial action. This is despite the fact that in March, the new Trade Union Act comes into operationa law that already extends the employment categories subject to restrictions on industrial action. Wednesdays motion sought to include all transport and the NHS as critical national services.

The bill failed only because Labour MPs voted against it on the basis that it was unnecessary. Labours argument is that further anti-strike legislation is not required, as the union bureaucracy already ensures that industrial action will remain at an all-time low.

Labours Kevin Brennan noted, There were 106 strikes in 2015the last year for which we have figureswhich is an eighth of the number of strikes that took place in 1985. That equates to a loss of 0.003 percent of all working days in 2015, when 81,000 workers went on strike. That is the lowest level since records began in 1893.
In the week since the inauguration of US President Donald Trump and the promulgation of his reactionary America First program, Canadas Liberal government has moved to significantly expand Ottawas decades-long military-security partnership with the United States.

Under conditions where Trump is launching trade war, talking about seizing Iraqi oil, and threatening to seize Chinese-held islands in the South China Sea, Canadas ruling elite is seeking to further integrate Canada into Washingtons war plans.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke to Trump by telephone the day after the inauguration and discussed an initial face-to-face meeting in coming weeks. In a tacit acknowledgement that a closer alliance with Trump will prove deeply unpopular, Canadian officials have proposed that the meeting take place on US soil, for fear a Trump visit to Ottawa will provoke mass protests.

In the run-up to Trumps assumption of the presidency, Trudeau had signalled his governments desire to step up military collaboration with Washington by a series of key personnel appointments. Following a cabinet shuffle that saw former financial journalist and Thomson-Reuters executive Chrystia Freeland promoted to Foreign Minister, Trudeau named Andrew Leslie, a retired lieutenant-general and onetime candidate to lead Canadas military, as Freelands parliamentary secretary with special responsibilities for the Canada-US relationship.

Leslie has intimate ties to the Pentagon, including from when he commanded Canadian forces in the US-led wars in Yugoslavia and Afghanistan.

Speaking to the Globe and Mail earlier this week, Leslie hailed Trumps selections for Defence Secretary and National Security Adviser, James Mad Dog Mattis and Michael Flynn. Gen. Mattis, declared Leslie, is a very knowledgeable, scholarly warrior, and Gen. Flynn is arguably one of the worlds experts on intelligence. So theyre unique choices.

Such effusive praise for Mattis, who was responsible for the brutal 2004 US military assault on Fallujah, a war crime, and Flynn, an aggressive proponent of US militarist violence in the Middle East and beyond, exemplifies the Canadian ruling elites readiness to collaborate with the most right-wing US administration in history in pursuit of its own predatory ambitions. As another anonymous senior government official enthusiastically remarked of Trumps team, Actually, were getting along quite well with these guysThey are saying very nice things to us. They are saying they love Canada.

Canada has long been a key partner in US imperialist aggression. Since World War II, Ottawa has relied on its close ties to Washington to advance Canadian imperialist interests around the globe. In the explosion of US militarism that followed the Stalinist bureaucracys dissolution of the Soviet Union, Canada played a prominent role. Canadas military has participated in virtually every US-led war over the past quarter century and Ottawa, under Liberal and Conservative governments alike, has been particularly supportive of the US military-strategic offensive against Russia, from NATO expansion to the current advanced deployments on Russias borders.

Trudeau pledged in his 2015 election campaign to deepen the economic and military partnership between the two countries. The coming to power of Trump has added a still more ominous edge to this strategy.

Trumps provocative declarations, that the US is being ripped off by NATO and that some member-states are free riders because they do not spend the equivalent of 2 percent of GDP on their militaries, have largely been welcomed by Canadas political and military establishment. To reach the 2 percent target, the Liberals would have to double the current military budget to more than $40 billion.

There is also a growing clamour for Canada to join the US ballistic missile defence shield, a step that is already under consideration as part of the Liberals defence policy review.

Speaking with the CBC this week, Derek Burney, a former Canadian ambassador to the US who is advising Trudeau on working with Trump, said, (Trumps) criticism of Canadas contribution to NATO is legitimate. Were not alone, but if hes concerned the United States is carrying an unfair share of the burden, hes right. We should be spending more on defence if we want to give future life to NATO.

Colin Robertson, a former diplomat and now a senior fellow at the Canadian Global Affairs Institute, enthused over the prospect of Trump giving Canada encouragement to take a more aggressive stance against Russia in the Arctic. I think Trump will probably say OK, the Arctic is yours. Exercise that sovereignty. Are you going to build that base in the north or not? We want to know what youre doing.

In a concession to Trump, the Trudeau government has delayed finalizing its plans to deploy Canadian troops to Africa. This initiative was to be dressed up as a UN peacekeeping mission, but would have as its principal goal giving Ottawa a greater role in the geopolitics of a continent where Canadian mining companies have more than $25 billion in investments. Made in expectation of demands from the Trump administration for additional Canadian military commitments, the delay has reportedly riled the French and German governments. They had been banking on Canada deploying hundreds of troops to Mali early in 2017 to assist in the waging of counterinsurgency war.

With the exception of British Prime Minister Theresa May, the rulers of Europes major powers have responded to Trumps economic nationalism and unilateralism by pushing back against Washington and calling for a more assertive and independent European foreign policy. Trudeau and Canadian big business, on the other hand, are bending over backwards to demonstrate their readiness to collaborate with a Trump-led America. It is the job of the Canadian prime minister, declared Trudeau this week, to have a constructive working relationship with the president of the United States, and thats exactly what I intend to do.

Burney and senior government officials have made no secret of the fact that in renegotiating NAFTA with Trump, Canada will be quite prepared to throw Mexico under the bus if that is necessary to maintain Canadian big business privileged access to the US market. Mexico has its own interests, Burney told CTV News. The notion that Canada and Mexico together are going to negotiate against the United States, that doesnt hold any water for me.

Trudeau was in Calgary this week for a two-day cabinet retreat at which relations with the Trump administration were the main topic of discussion. The Prime Minister and Natural Resources Minister Jim Carr applauded Trumps executive order Tuesday giving the go-ahead for the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline, which will transport Alberta tar sands oil to the Gulf of Mexico.

All this does not mean relations between the US and Canadian governments and ruling elites are not fraught with tensions. Canadian big business is troubled by its dependence on the US, particularly in the area of oil exports, and is urging Ottawa to proceed with its plans to diversify Canadas trade. These plans include potentially striking a free trade agreement with China. Such a step would almost inevitably put Canada at odds with Trump, who has all but publicly named China as Americas principal economic and military rival.

Frictions could also emerge over how to deal with Russia, if Trump seeks an accommodation with Moscow so as to lay the basis for escalating Washingtons military-strategic offensive against China.

Some media commentators are keenly aware that in aligning with Trump, Trudeau is bolstering an administration whose aggressive policies threaten to plunge the world into trade war and potentially a global conflagration. However, bereft of any alternative strategy for defending the wealth and privileges of Canadian capitalism, they are cheering Trudeau on.

Thus, National Post columnist Michael Den Tandt, who has praised Trudeaus overtures to Trump, published a column this week, Batten the hatches: China and US poised to clash as never before, that outlined a scenario of military conflict in the Asia-Pacific. Wrote Den Tandt: All the signals coming from senior Trump administration officialsfrom the president himself, with his Taiwan-friendly Tweets, on downare not of waning interest in the Pacific region, but waxing. Only rather than the softish power of multilateral trade ties, the primary instrument of American power projection will be militaryaircraft carriers and nuclear deterrence.
UK Prime Minister Theresa May suffered a public humiliation at the hands of US President Donald Trump during their joint press conference Friday.

May arrived in the US Thursday with her government trumpeting the fact that hers was the first visit of any foreign leader to the White House since Trumps inauguration.

On her first day in the US, she addressed senior Republican policymakers in Philadelphia offering a series of eulogies to the special relationship between the US and Britain and pledging to do whatever was required to preserve it.

The burden of democracy for the past century had been shared with the UK and defined the modern world in the course of two world wars and during the post 1945 Cold War period. Today Eastern Europe lives in freedom and peace thanks to Mrs Thatcher and President Reagan, she concluded.

Maintaining the special relationship, embedded in the US-led NATO alliance, was essential to avoid the eclipse of the West by Russia, China and India, May declared.

In her negotiations with Trump, May was charged by competing factions of Britains ruling elite with firming up the promise of a US trade deal to offset the impact of Britains leaving the European Union in two years time. But this would ideally be backed up with a pledge of continued US support for NATO and Trump rowing back on his overt support for the break-up of the EUso that the UK could placate the angry response of Germany and France and maintain the possibility of tariff-free access to the market of its largest trading partner.

The New York Times accurately summed up the crisis facing the British ruling class, noting that Since Britains decline from a global power in the years just after World War II, the countrys foreign policy has rested on two pillars. First is the American-British partnership, which allows Britain to project its power and safeguard its interests globally. Second is European unity, which is essential for Britains economic prosperity and, by removing the centuries-old diversions of European conflict, frees up Britain to act on the world stage.

With the breakup of the European Union, Russian resurgence and particularly Mr. Trumps threats to step away from Europe, the Times warned, both of those pillars could now be crumbling.

Ultimately, however, the shape of the press conference was determined not primarily by Britains decline as a world power, but by the growing conflict between the imperialist powers that has found political expression in Trumps elevation and his self-proclaimed America First agenda of trade war, protectionism and stepped up military aggression. It is the increasingly bitter struggle between the US and its major rivals, including Europe, for control of global markets and resources that imparts such an incendiary character to world politicsand which finds acute expression in the bullying rhetoric emanating from Trump.

May began her address to the press with a display of grotesque fawning before Trump. As she congratulated him on a stunning victory in the Presidential election, Trump smiled smugly and preened as he acknowledged the praise to someone in the audience.

She followed this by telling the media that the Queen had offered to fete Trump at a State Banquet in London on an official state visit later this year. But despite abasing herself, on all three issues of concern to Britain, May essentially walked away empty-handed.

Despite claims that she would be frank in raising Britains differences with some of Trumps previous statements and political views, May did nothing of the sort.

All she could say regarding talks on trade was that the President and I have mentioned future economic co-operation and trade.

On US commitment to NATO, May looked nervously towards Trumpwho earlier this month described NATO as obsolete-as as she told the press, Mr. President, I think you said, you confirmed that youre 100 percent behind NATO.

Trump never deigned to back up Mays assertion and avoided mentioning NATO during the conference. Instead, he reiterated his readiness to come to a deal with Russian President Vladimir Putinthe very issue that has thrown the European powers into panic.

In a further attempt to ingratiate herself with Trump, who has railed against the US footing Europes defence bill, May stated, I have agreed to encourage my fellow European leaders to deliver on their commitments to spend 2 percent of their GDP on defence so that the burden is more fairly shared.

One might ask, what fellow European leaders? The reality is that following the Brexit vote, the UKs influence in Europe has collapsed and is diminishing by the day so that May is routinely excluded from all high-level meetings of EU leaders.

It was left to BBC political editor Laura Kuenssberg in the short questioning period allowed, to ask Trump, You've said before that torture works, you've praised Russia, you've said you want to ban some Muslims from coming to America, you've suggested there should be punishment for abortion.

For many people in Britain those sound like alarming beliefs. What do you say to our viewers at home who are worried about some of your views and worried about you becoming the leader of the free world?"

The reality of the special relationship was summed up in Trumps hostile reply as he looked at May and said, This was your choice of a question? There goes that relationship.

Trump then proceeded to reiterate his defence of torture and said he supported it regardless of the views of any members of his administration. I happen to feel it does work. May stood in silence.

The theme continued as May was asked a question about Trumps executive order to build an anti-immigration wall on the USs southern border with Mexico. Making clear that he would not appreciate comment from May, Trump told the press for her that May had other issues to deal with.

After Trump reiterated his plans, May dutifully told her questioners that relations between the US and Mexico were the exclusive business of the US and Mexico. In contrast, when it came to Britains exit from the EU, Trump was free to say whatever he wanted.

For the Trump administration, post-Brexit Britains main value is not as a trading partner but a political weapon to be used against the European Union, and above all against Germany, which Trump views as a major economic rival to the US. Bracketing Brexit with his own election, and alluding to the further breakup of the EU, Trump said, Brexit was an example of what was to come... I think Brexit will go down as being a fantastic thing for the United Kingdom... and not a liability.

He went so far as to confide to the media that he privately referred to the EU as the consortium and used the occasion to complain that it had once prevented him from successfully concluding a business venture.
Terry Edwards was executed Thursday night in Texas after a nearly four-hour delay while waiting on a last-minute appeal from the US Supreme Court. Edwards, 43, was put to death despite claims of prosecutorial misconduct and that he was not guilty of murder.

Edwards was convicted of the murder of two employees at a Subway restaurant in suburban Dallas in 2002. His attorneys claimed there was no clear gunshot residue from the murder weapon on his hands and no blood from either victim on his body or clothes. They also argued his conviction was tainted with racial bias.

The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals denied Edwards appeal on Wednesday, and the US Supreme Court denied his final appeal at around 9:45 p.m. Thursday night, clearing the way for his execution.

Asked for a final statement, Edwards said, I made my peace with God. I hope yall find your peace in this. According to the Texas Tribune, shortly thereafter, at 9:54 p.m., a lethal dose of pentobarbital was placed into the IV inserted into the crook of his right elbow.

The Tribune describes the scene in the execution chamber in Huntsville, Texas: Within a minute, he began to snore loudly, but almost as soon as it began it stopped suddenly. Within two minutes of being injected with the drug, all movement had ceased. A doctor came in about 20 minutes later, and Edwards was pronounced dead at 10:17 p.m.

Edwards was convicted and sentenced to death for the shooting deaths of Tommy Walker, 34, and Mickell Goodwin, 26, at a Subway restaurant in Balch Springs, Texas, where Edwards used to work and had been fired for suspected theft of money.

Edwards returned to the Subway on July 8, 2002 with his older cousin, Kirk Edwards. The shop was robbed, and the two victims were shot and died from close-range bullet wounds. A witness reported seeing the younger cousin dumping a gun into a bin across the street from the shop.

Terry Edwards was arrested and convicted of the murders in 2003 and sentenced to death. Kirk Edwards pleaded guilty to robbery in exchange for a 25-year sentence with the possibility of parole.

Although the prosecution asserted that Terry Edwards pulled the trigger, in their appeal his lawyers claimed that he was not the killer and that it is more likely his cousin committed the murders. Under Texass law of parties, defendants can be sentenced to death even if they do not personally commit murder.

Edwards appeals focused on a range of issues, from prosecutorial misconduct at his trial to newly released evidence that could lend more credence to the theory that Kirk Edwards committed the murders, according to court papers.

According to the Tribune, both Dallas County and the state of Texas claimed the filings were ineligible for review because there had already been appeals where these issues could have been raised.

One of the main pieces of evidence presented at trial against Terry Edwards was gunshot residue testing, used by prosecutors in an effort to prove he fired the fatal shots. In court papers, Edwards attorneys argued the gunshot residue evidence was improperly interpreted and in fact showed that he was not the shooter.

Edwards appellate attorneys have also questioned the fairness of the jury selection process at his trial. They said in a statement that prosecutors removed all eligible African Americans from the jury pool of 3,000 citizens [143 of whom were questioned] and seated an all-white jury to decide the fate of an African American man charged with murdering two white people.

This claim was based on a prosecutor list found by the attorneys with the names of 32 jurors with the letter B written next to them. It is unclear whether the B meant black, as court files have gone missing that would identify the jurors. The lawyers argued that they needed more time to determine this. If jurors were excluded because they were black it would be a violation of Edwards rights under the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment to the US Constitution.

The Supreme Court ruled in May 2016 in Foster v. Chatman that the conviction and death sentence of Timothy Foster, a black man convicted of killing a white woman, Queen Madge White, was unconstitutional because potential black jurors were excluded.

In Fosters case, similar to jury selection at Terry Edwards trial, prosecutors had marked the names of possible black jurors with a B. For unexplained reasons, however, the high court chose not to issue a stay of execution for Edwards, allowing his lethal injection to proceed.

Edwards execution was the second in Texas so far this year; the state has seven more scheduled for 2017. Since the US Supreme Court reinstated the death penalty in 1976, Texas has executed 540 people, far more than any other state. These have included the mentally impaired, foreign nationals denied their consular rights, and those convicted and sentenced for crimes committed as juveniles.
Two months after obtaining the presidential nomination of the right-wing The Republicans (LR) party, and less than a week after calling for closer ties to Moscow prior to a meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel in Berlin, Francois Fillon faces corruption charges that could undermine his campaign.

On Wednesday, the satirical weekly Le Canard Enchaine published allegations that Fillons wife Penelope was paid 600,000 [US $642,000] over eight years for two jobs in which she did no identifiable work. This allegation is particularly damaging since Fillon staked his presidential bid on claims that he was not as corrupt as his main LR rivals. Former Prime Minister Alain Juppe was convicted on corruption charges in 2004, and former President Nicolas Sarkozy still is in legal jeopardy in a series of cases arising from his term in office from 2007 to 2012.

Abandoning the traditional truce of the Republic during election periods, French financial authorities have announced they are opening an initial investigation into the issue.

Given the widespread corruption of the French political establishment, and the timing of the exposurecoming only days after Fillons explosive call for an alliance with Germany and Russia against the new American administrationit appears this revelation is an element of the vicious faction fight now roiling ruling circles over how to react to Donald Trumps coming to power.

Fillon reacted rapidly to the allegations, appearing personally on the evening news on TF1 television on Thursday to defend himself and threaten journalists reporting on the matter with legal action. I will bring suit against the newspapers that are stating that my wife had a fictitious job, he said, stating that he was the target of calumny and charges designed to shoot down his candidacy. He added, There is something rotten in our democracy.

Fillon did not deny that his wife had received the payments, however, but asserted that she had done work to justify her salary, such as looking at drafts of his speeches and receiving guests. He also repeated that he would step down if he were formally indicted on corruption chargesa statement he previously made to distinguish himself from Sarkozy.

Fillons sudden decision to appear on prime-time television was an acknowledgment that the details and allegations assembled by Le Canard Enchaine could potentially deal a fatal blow to his presidential ambitions.

Penelope Fillon, Le Canard writes, was until recently known for her talents as a judge in contests for the best pear pie or Shetland ponies, regular attendance at mass at Solesmes Abbey [a Benedictine monastery], and home-making  Surprise: the income of a woman who always presented herself as an exemplary stay-at-home mother sometimes totaled almost half the taxable income reported by the couple.

Her pay allegedly included nearly 500,000 from the National Assembly, where she worked as a parliamentary attache for Marc Joulaud, a deputy who replaced Fillon in the Assembly while Fillon was working as a minister in successive right-wing governments. Penelope Fillons pay, according to Le Canard Enchaine s sources, went up to 7,900 per month--almost the entire 9,561 monthly budget for Joulauds parliamentary staff.

The weekly paper interviewed Jeanne Robinson-Behre, another one of Joulauds attaches, who did not recall Penelope Fillon carrying out any work for Joulaud at all. I never worked with her, I have no information on this subject, Robinson-Behre said. I only knew her as a ministers wife.

Moreover, Le Canard adds, In 2012 and 2013, [Penelope Fillon] was literary advisor at La Revue des Deux Mondes, a monthly magazine owned by a family friend, businessman and man of influence Marc Ladreit de Lacharriere. In 20 months, she raked in 100,000 pre-tax, even though the director of the magazine had never met her.

She was allegedly paid 5,000 per month, only 1,000 less than Michel Crepu, the magazines director at the time. However, Crepu told Le Canard, I never met Penelope Fillon and I never saw her in the magazines offices.  Marc de Lacharriere phoned me once to say, Could you send me some books for review we could give to Mrs Fillon, who is feeling bored?

Given the elasticity of the laws against influence peddling and those requiring National Assembly attaches to actually work for the deputies they are supposedly assisting, it is unclear whether Penelope Fillons pay packets were technically illegal. However, the affair points to the boundless class arrogance of the leading presidential candidates. They are demanding deep austerity from working people and financial sacrifices to pay for police-state and militarist policies, while living off vast payoffs, legal or otherwise, from major banks and businesses.

Fillons ability to have his wife hired and paid for nominal work is hardly unusual among deputies at the National Assembly. In 2014, the first year that reporting was required, Mediapart reports, 52 wives, 28 sons and 32 daughters of legislators were employed using parliamentary funds.

Moreover, Fillons financial arrangements were no doubt well-known in political and media circles long before Le Canard Enchaine went into print. Those arrangements have been the subject of intense scrutiny since November, when numerous articles appeared on Fillons consulting firm 2F Conseil, which earned a whopping 757,000 in three years despite having no employees. It appears that these sums of money came from lucrative speaking fees paid to Fillon by various business groups and think tanks.

The exposure of the potentially most damaging element of Fillons finances was carefully timed. It came just after he issued a statement in Le Monde and the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung attacking NATO interventions in Syria and Ukraine as costly errors and calling for the formation of a French-German-Russian alliance against Washington. Such a policy contradicts the views of candidates in or around the Socialist Party (PS)including Emmanuel Macron and Benoit Hamon, who have insisted on maintaining ties with Washingtonto which the Canard is generally sympathetic.

Under these circumstances, it appears that the allegation against Fillon is yet another indication of how international crises and conflicts are increasingly dominating the French presidential election campaign.
Germanys parliament (Bundestag) voted overwhelmingly on Thursday to extend and massively expand the German armys intervention in the West African country of Mali.

According to the motion, which was approved by parliament in its third reading, the upper limit for the number of soldiers deployed as part the UN mission in Mali, known as MINUSMA, is to be increased by 350 to more than 1,000. The limit was increased just last year from 150 to 650. The deployment is also to be extended by a year.

An additional 300 German soldiers are deployed in Mali as part of the European Unions (EU) training mission EUTM. This means that more German soldiers will soon be stationed in the West African country than in any other country outside Germany. The largest intervention to date was limited to 960 soldiers in Afghanistan. In Kosovo, where the German army has been operating for 18 years, 517 soldiers are currently deployed.

The army began on Friday with the shifting of NH90 combat and Tiger transport helicopters from Leipzig-Halle airport to Mali. According to the German army, they will be used to transport and rescue injured people. In addition, operations to escort convoys and conduct surveillance are also planned.

Next Tuesday, Colonel Oliver Walter, commander of the Friesland air force regiment, will send the first new contingent into action with a military order at the former Upjever airfield. The first soldiers will be deployed on February 15. The entire contingent is then to arrive in Gao, in the dangerous and restive northern region of the country, on March 1.

The German government is seeking to sell the mission as a humanitarian peacekeeping operation. In the governments justification of the new mandate for the army, it states, The stabilisation of Mali is a key focus of German engagement in the Sahel region and an important part of the German governments Africa policy. The issue at stake is to help Mali towards a peaceful future and overcome the causes of flight and persecution.

In reality, the German army is not leading Mali toward a peaceful future but increasingly towards terrorism and chaos. A few days ago, a fatal suicide bomb attack near a military base in Gao killed 70 people and many more were injured. The hospital is overcrowded. There are decomposing bodies everywhere, Arboncana Maiga, a resident of the city by telephone, told Deutsche Welle. We have not experienced this before in Gao.

The deterioration of the security situation in the area is so dramatic that the German army has increased its so-called risk payment to 110 per day. This corresponds to level six, the highest danger level. This only previously applied to the military intervention in Afghanistan.

All of this sheds light on the true character of the German military intervention in Mali and its background.

Germany is waging war and collaborating with an authoritarian and corrupt government to keep refugees away from Europe by detaining them in Africa. Above all it is using the unrest and refugee crisis as an excuse for enforcing its economic and geo-strategic interests on the continent, which has a large population and is rich in natural resources.

Africa was at the heart of Germanys foreign policy shift from the outset. Just weeks after President Joachim Gauck and other leading politicians announced the end of military restraint at the 2014 Munich Security Conference, the cabinet adopted the guidelines for an Africa policy. These guidelines read like a blueprint for the exploitation of Africa by German imperialism in the 21st century.

The guidelines speak of a growing relevance of Africa for Germany and Europe, and this means, The potential of Africa arises out of a demographic development with a future market with high growth rates, rich natural resources, potential for agricultural production and food security under its own control  African markets are developing dynamically and willin the raw materials market and beyondbe for the German economy  increasingly interesting.

The goal of the German government is therefore to increase the political, security policy and development policy engagement of Germany. The aim being pursued was to act based on interests, early quickly, decisively and substantially, which includes military interventions. The German government intended to deploy the full spectrum of its available methods  cross-departmentally, political, security policy, development policy, regional policy, economic, academic and cultural.

Since the publication of the guidelines, German imperialism has stepped up its efforts to impose its interests in Africa under the guise of the war on terror or combatting the causes of flight.

Already at the beginning of 2013, the German parliament agreed to support the French intervention in Mali and to station German soldiers in the country. Additional German interventions are currently under way in Senegal, Western Sahara, Sudan, South Sudan and Somalia.

The latest expansion of the Mali operation introduces a new stage in the return of German militarism to Africa. It is directly connected with the geopolitical shifts and mounting conflicts between the imperialist powers following the election of US President Donald Trump.

In an interview with Handelsblatt, German Defence Minister Ursula Von der Leyen demanded the clear political will to reach the NATO-mandated figure of 2 percent of GDP for defence spending and not lose any time with military rearmament. Ships, helicopters, armoured vehicles, personneleven when the money is there, they still need to be built or recruited and trained.

At the same time, Von der Leyen explained that European governments had to readjust their foreign policy and ensure security in our region as Europeans. With reference to Africa that meant supporting African states to bring the growing population in correspondence with the expanding economy and stabilise them against terrorism. The cooperation with Africa was thus a task for NATO. I see us Europeans assuming much more responsibility.

The Left Party, which was the only parliamentary group to vote against the expansion of the mission, supports the offensive of German imperialism like all the other parliamentary parties and has fulfilled its duty in Africa for some time.

In December, the defence policy spokeswoman of the Left Party, Christine Buchholz, made her second trip to Mali to visit the troops, she went there for the first time in 2014.

In her speech in parliament, Buchholz did not oppose the deployment in principle, but merely warned of the growing danger for German soldiers. With the capability of carrying out rescue missions, the action radius of the German army will be expanded and thus also the risk of becoming the targets of attacks, she said.

Buchholz and the Left Party fear above all sparking an uprising of the Malian masses against the foreign occupiers. The German soldiers are operating in Gao as foreigners, cut-off from the population. The more insecure the situation, the more isolated will be the German troops, Buchholz told the deputies.

Loyal, the magazine of the German military reserves association, recently reported how a German patrol in Gao not only had to struggle with the extreme heat, but also a cool response from the population. A stone was thrown at the armoured and armed vehicle of the German army.
A week after Donald Trump's inauguration, no explanation has been given of the strange and troubling appearance of ten military officers behind Trump early in his inaugural address.

As the World Socialist Web Site reported, at about one minute and 16 seconds into Trumps speech, ten military officers walked out from the west side of the capitol building to flank Trump. Junior officers as well as captains and higher-ranking officers from the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines gathered around the president for about 40 secondslong enough for an image of Trump surrounded by uniformed military men to be broadcast internationally. Another uniformed officer then appeared and whispered something, at which point they exited.

On the New York Times live blog coverage of the inauguration, noted presidential historian Jon Meacham questioned the incident. His question was brushed aside by Times White House correspondent Maggie Haberman, who suggested that their appearance was due to the light rain. Habermans comment is rendered thoroughly illogical by the fact that none of the officers in question carried an umbrella.

Celebrity gossip site TMZ noted the incongruity of the occurrence, but chalked it up to a fumble by the military: Donald Trumps inaugural speech did not go off without a hitchthere was a clear fumble by the militarybut everyone's clammed up."

The Daily Mail in the United Kingdom also commented upon the incident. In an article titled, Trump Gets to Work, the Daily Mail attributed it to an unplanned error: Viewers could have gotten the impression that all was going as planned, the newspaper wrote, if not for the appearance of an extra man in uniform. That man seemed to tell the soldiers something, prompting them to leave before the end of the speech.

The highly irregular use of the military during a presidential inauguration went unremarked upon by the mainstream American press. The WSWS has made multiple attempts to contact the White House press office, as well as the New York Times and the Washington Post concerning the incident; at this point, no one has returned our calls or emails.

It is quite clear, however, that this did not represent a mere gaffe by the military or the White House. It was a calculated maneuver by Trump to impress upon both the nation and the world his militaristic and nationalistic message. He had already unsuccessfully attempted to requisition missile launchers and tanks from the military for his inaugural parade. His inaugural speech was filled with lamentations about the sad depletion of the US military and vows to bolster it with increased spending and personnel.

He concluded his speech by hearkening to the military once again: We will be protected by the great men and women of our military and law enforcement, and most importantly, we are protected by God.

In the week since Trumps inauguration, not one question has been raised by the press about his use of the military during his inaugural speech. While White House press secretary Sean Spicer denied journalists the opportunity to ask questions after his first press briefing on Monday, he has allowed questions after each press briefing since then.

The silence of the press, many of whom have noisily objected to Trumps threats to hold the press accountable, has itself no innocent explanation. Whatever its criticisms of Trump, the media is part of the political establishment and is covering for the anti-democratic and militarist agenda of the new administration.
A leader of the pseudo-left group Socialist Aotearoa (SA) has announced he will stand as a socialist in the February 25 by-election for the west Auckland seat of Mount Albert.

Joe Carolan, a senior organiser for the Unite trade union, is a fixture of Aucklands protest circuit, frequently appearing at rallies alongside bourgeois politicians from the Labour Party, the Greens and the Maori nationalist Mana Party.

In the 2014 general election, Carolan was the Mount Albert candidate for Mana, receiving 0.8 percent of the vote. Mana and its ally the Internet Party aimed to enter parliament in support of a Labour-led government, but failed to gain any seats. Both pro-business parties were supported by SA and two other pseudo-left groups, the International Socialist Organisation and Fightback.

Carolan told TV3 on December 20 that he is running this time as an out-and-proud socialist, the timing being right in the post-Bernie Sanders world. In a January 16 interview on the trade union-funded Daily Blog, Carolan praised British Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn as explicitly socialist, very pro-union, pro-worker.

The invocation of Sanders and Corbyn, two pro-capitalist politicians, indicates Socialist Aotearoas real political orientation. Far from fighting for a socialist solution to the capitalist crisis, SA, on behalf of the upper middle class layer it represents, is moving to establish new formations to derail the growing radicalisation of the working class and subordinate it to the existing political set-up.

Sanders campaign for the US presidential nomination was aimed at corralling anti-capitalist sentiment and confining it to the Democratic Party, one of the two major big business parties in the US. For all his rhetoric against the billionaire class, Sanders promoted reactionary nationalism and economic protectionism. He backed Hillary Clinton in the election and has since moved to collaborate with President Donald Trump. Corbyn has similarly capitulated to the Labour Partys right-wing, betraying his pledges to oppose austerity and war.

Conditions similar to those that impelled Sanders appeal to millions of workers and youth exist in New Zealand. The 2014 election saw more than a million people abstain, pointing to the widespread alienation and disgust with all the big business parties. Outraged over deteriorating social conditions and the growing danger of war, sections of the working class in every country are becoming sympathetic to socialism.

The conservative National Party government has, since the 2008 global financial crisis, imposed draconian austerity measures and is presiding over soaring social inequality. Februarys by-election will take place in the countrys biggest city, where the average house price has sky-rocketed to over $1 million. Thousands of people unable to afford rents are living in overcrowded housing, or even garages and cars.

The Mount Albert electorate is socially diverse and economically stratified, with pockets of affluence alongside significant poverty. Figures from 2013 show nearly one in four of the 63,000 inhabitants was born overseas, while 34.5 percent of the residents earn less than $20,000 a year.

The seat was vacated following the resignation of David Shearer, the Labour Partys leader from 2011 to 2013, who is returning to work for the UN. Between 1981 and 2009, the seat was held by Helen Clark, Labour Prime Minister from 1999 to 2008. With a general election due later this year, National has declared it a safe Labour seat and will not contest the by-election.

Labour, however, is in deep crisis, underscored by Shearers resignation. It is correctly seen by working people as no alternative to National and continues to languish below 30 percent in the polls. In 2014 it received 24.7 percent of votes, its worst result since 1922. Under present leader Andrew Little, a former union leader, it has lurched further to the right, promoting law-and-order measures and immigration controls to address the social crisis and openly siding with Washington in its deepening confrontation with China.

Carolan told Newshub that he intends to challenge Labour from the Left. He released a list of policies, including free public transport, free education, rent controls, a public housing program and a liveable universal basic income. Far from establishing that none of these issues can be resolved without the working class overthrowing the profit system and taking power into its own hands, Carolan contends that they can be addressed through the unions and getting people involved in movements.

The social rights he mentions have been attacked ruthlessly over the past three decades by successive governments, including Labour, with the full collaboration of the unions. SA, along with Unite and Mana, has always endorsed Labour as the lesser evil, seeking to promote illusions that it can be pressured to adopt progressive policies.

Carolan told the Daily Blog he wanted to build a movement of people outside parliament, based around the trade unions. He said the purpose of such a movement would be to start that discussion about a new party of the left. The role of such a formation would be to divert the discontent back into the hands of the parliamentary establishment, as can be seen from Carolans record.

Carolan said he was proud to be a member of the Mana Party. He and other SA members joined Mana in 2011, and have fraudulently promoted it as left wing and even revolutionary. Mana represents the interests of a narrow layer of Maori business owners and tribal elites. The party discredited itself in the eyes of working people with its right-wing policies and alliance with the openly pro-business Internet Party. Mana is currently in negotiations to form a new alliance with the Maori Party, a partner in the ruling coalition government.

The SA leader also praised the Alliance Party, which served in coalition with the Labour government from 1999 to 2002. Carolan said the Alliance was very left wing, it had a lot of the policies that we [SA] have in common. He did not mention that all but one of the Alliances ten MPs voted with Labour to send troops to Afghanistan. The party collapsed shortly afterward.

Underscoring SAs friendliness toward Labour, Carolan described its candidate for Mount Albert, Jacinda Ardern, as a wonderful person and said Shearer, the outgoing MP, had done some good work in Palestine during his previous job with the UN. NZ Labour and the UN have always supported the Israeli state and its oppression of Palestinians. Labour also fully supports the current US-led wars in Iraq and Syria.

Carolans by-election statements do not mention SAs foreign policy, which is closely aligned with Labours. The group has been at the forefront of whipping up support for US-led imperialist interventions in Syria. It has also falsely painted China as an imperialist power with designs on New Zealand, in order to justify Washingtons anti-China military build-up.

Carolan hypocritically criticised Labour and the Greens for scapegoating immigrants, saying: I am explicitly internationalist, pro-migrant. Yet Mana and Unite, with SAs tacit support, have joined Labour and the right-wing NZ First Party in blaming immigrant workers for deteriorating wages and conditions. Unite cooperates with a government agency to vet applications by employers seeking to bring in overseas labour, while lobbying to crack down on the number of temporary work visas.

Socialist Aotearoa is not a socialist organisation. It represents better-off sections of the middle class, including the trade union bureaucracy, which are seeking to take a more direct role in the political establishment and improve their own positions under capitalism.

The pseudo-lefts are bitterly hostile to the perspective of Trotskyism: genuine revolutionary socialism, which fights to unite workers internationally, on the basis of their own independent program and party, to overthrow the profit system. In New Zealand that perspective is fought for by the Socialist Equality Group (SEG), which is aligned with the International Committee of the Fourth International.

The author also recommends:

A reply to a radical activist in New Zealand

[12 August 2000]

Socialist Aotearoa endorses Mana-Internet Party alliance

[12 June 2014]

Left Greens faction formed in Australia amid growing discontent

[14 January 2017]
It is one week since the inauguration of Donald Trump as president of the United States, and the actions and orders of the new government make clear what the working class can expect from the next four years.

At the center of Trumps America First agenda is a massive escalation of military violence. At a swearing-in ceremony at the Pentagon Friday for the new secretary of defense, retired general James Mattis, Trump signed an executive order to begin a major rebuilding of the military. The order directs Mattis to prepare a policy to upgrade the US nuclear arsenal and prepare for conflict with near-peer competitors, a term that traditionally refers to China and Russia.

The action follows Trump press secretary Sean Spicers reaffirmation of a statement by incoming Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, the former CEO of ExxonMobil, that the US would seek to bar Chinese access to islets in the South China Sea, implying military actions that would amount to a declaration of war.

Trump has also pledged to establish safe zones in Syria, which will be coupled with a temporary ban on all immigration from a number of majority Muslim countries. While Democrats have denounced Trump for being too soft on Russia, during the elections the Clinton campaign called for the setting up of safe no-fly zones, policed by US military aircraft, as part of an effort to counter Russian backing of the Syrian government of Bashar al-Assad. In a speech at CIA headquarters, Trump also said that the US should have taken the oil in Iraq, and pledged that the CIA would have another chance to do so.

On domestic policy, Trump signed a series of executive orders that freeze hiring on all federal workers, freeze all pending government regulations and remove all obstacles to the completion of the Keystone and Dakota Access oil pipelines. Early in the week, he held meetings with the CEOs of the largest US manufacturing companies and with US auto companies, promising to cut regulations 75 percent and shift the business climate from truly inhospitable to extremely hospitable.

On Wednesday, Trump announced that his administration would proceed with the construction of a wall along the US-Mexico border, while launching a crack-down targeting millions of immigrant workers for detention and deportation. The same day, he said that the White House would seek a major investigation into completely unfounded allegations that voter fraud by millions of people cost him the popular vote in Novembera claim aimed at creating the conditions for a further assault on the right to vote.

As part of a policy of extreme economic nationalism, early in the week Trump signed an executive order blocking US entry into the Trans-Pacific Partnership and pledged to renegotiate the North American Free Trade Agreement.

Many of the policies of the incoming administration were outlined in Trumps interview Wednesday night with ABC News anchor David Muir, during which Trump interspersed lying claims about his own popularity and the size of his inauguration with casual threats of war, torture and repression. The overall impression of Trump during the interview was that of a gangster in the Oval Office, the assumption of power by an underworld reflecting all that is corrupt and filthy in American capitalist society.

On torture, Trump proclaimed that if Mattis and incoming CIA Director Mike Pompeo want to do [waterboarding], thats fine. If they do wanna do, then I will work toward that end. A draft memorandum is circulating in the White House that would reopen secret CIA prisons and torture centers overseas.

And this is only the first week. With the support of Democrats, Congress is moving rapidly to approve Trumps cabinet of billionaires, former generals and corporate CEOs, and it has already approved Mattis, Pompeo and the head of the Department of Homeland Security, retired Marine Gen. John Kelly. Trumps other cabinet picks are committed to a policy of destroying public education, eliminating basic social services and slashing Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security.

There is no doubt that the election of Trump marks a watershed in American politics. However, when future historians examine this period, they will inevitably direct attention to what preceded it, to the conditions and climate out of which the Trump presidency arose. Many factors could be pointed tothe extraordinary decay in the political culture of the United States, the domestic consequences of unending war and violence abroad, the extreme growth of social inequality and the rise of a parasitic financial oligarchy.

Rather than a complete break, the Trump presidency represents a transformation of quantity into quality. He is, in the final analysis, the product of the desperate crisis that afflicts American and world capitalism.

For four decades, the ruling class in the United States has been engaged in a campaign of social counter-revolution, systematically eliminating all the gains won by workers through bitter struggles in previous decades. The Obama administration accelerated these processes. Obamas White House continued and expanded the bank bailouts initiated under the Bush administration and helped funnel trillions of dollars to Wall Street through the Federal Reserves quantitative easing programs, while working, as in the 2009 auto restructuring, to slash wages for the working class.

The results are expressed in the extraordinary growth of social inequality. According to a recent report by University of California Berkeley economists Thomas Piketty, Emmanuel Saez and Gabriel Zucman, between 1980 and 2014, the share of pre-tax national income going to the bottom 50 percent of the population fell from 20 percent to 12 percent, while the share going to the top 1 percent increased from 12 percent to 20 percent. The gains for the top .1 and .01 percent of the population are even more extreme.

The foreign policy of the Trump administration likewise does not arise out of nowhere. For a quarter century, the American ruling class has been engaged in a desperate project to reverse its economic decline through military forcein the Balkans, North Africa, the Middle East and central Asia. Fifteen years of the war on terror have metastasized into an ever more direct conflict with larger competitors. Trumps focus on China is in fact in continuity with the Obama administrations pivot to Asia, which has seen the deployment of US military resources throughout the South Pacific and East Asia.

What Trump adds to these processes is the distinct odor of fascism, of extreme nationalism and the threat of violent repression of opposition. His declaration in his inaugural address that the bedrock of our politics will be total allegiance to the United States of America is a threat to criminalize dissent, which will be associated with treason.

However, here too Trump is giving naked expression to the long-term decay of democratic forms of rule. It was, after all, Obama who will go down in history as the president who proclaimed the power to assassinate US citizens without due process. Guantanamo Bay, Abu Ghraib, drone assassination, NSA spyingthis is the toxic mix out of which Trumps particular contempt for constitutional norms emerges.

In July, as Trump was formally nominated as the candidate of the Republican Party at the Republican National Convention, the WSWS noted that Trumps particular fascistic personality was forged not in the beer halls of Munich and the trenches of World War I, but in the real estate market of New York City. With his casinos, his fictional universities and his endless stream of failed businesses, this personification of corporate fraud could hardly be a more fitting symbol for the state of American capitalism.

There are sharp and bitter divisions within the American ruling class, but these divisions are over tactics, not basic class policy. It will not take much for Trump to bring on board many of his present critics within the political establishment and media, or, for that matter, more privileged sections of the upper middle class.

It is not from such forces that enduring opposition to the new administration will develop, but from the working class, in the United States and internationally. Trumps absurd posturing as a defender of the forgotten man will, sooner rather than later, give rise to bitter class conflict as the impact of the new administrations policy are felt. It is to the broad mass of the working class that socialists must now turn, and, through systematic organization and education, forge a political leadership to prepare for the struggles on the horizon.
The US-based Human Rights Watch (HRW) has once more damned Australias barbaric treatment of refugees and its failure to protect children in detention, as well as the countrys repressive counter-terrorism laws. The indictment was published in HRWs annual World Report 2017, which catalogues violations of human rights in around 90 countries.

The report states that throughout 2016 the Australian government continued its draconian policy of offshore transfers of asylum seekers to Manus Island in Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Nauru. This was despite growing calls for the government to address the abuses and resettle those found to be refugees in Australia.

HRW outlines the ruling last year by the High Court, Australias supreme court, that upheld the governments indefinite detention of refugees. The report notes that this decision amounted to authorizing by law Australias role in securing, funding, and participating in the detention of asylum seekers and refugees.

HRW points out that, by contrast, the PNG Supreme Court ruled that the detention of asylum seekers on Manus Island was unconstitutional under PNG law. The Australian government initially defied the PNG ruling, insisting that the detainees remain indefinitely incarcerated. As noted in the report, Australias government eventually agreed to close the Manus Island facility, but gave no timeframe and made clear that the refugees on the island would never come to Australia.

Instead, the government moved, in the subsequent months, to forbid any adult asylum seeker who arrived in Australia by boat after July 19, 2013 from ever receiving a visa, even to visit Australia. This legislation became an essential component in a US-Australia refugee-swapping deal, in which some asylum seekers on Manus Island and Nauru would be transferred to the US in exchange for some heavily-vetted refugees currently languishing in camps in Costa Rica, having been denied entry to the US.

The announcement of the US-Australia swap came after numerous failed attempts by successive Australian governments, both Liberal-National and Labor, to find a third option for the forcible dumping of refugees into poorer surrounding countries. The report highlights the $A55 million deal struck with Cambodia in 2015 to offload refugees there. It notes that, out of the six refugees from Nauru who were settled in Cambodia, only two remain there, with the others returning to their country of origin, due to the deplorable conditions they faced in Cambodia.

The report also highlights the horrendous conditions on Manus Island and Nauru, where refugee and asylum seekers face unnecessary delays in, and at times denial of, medical care, even for life-threatening conditions. This was highlighted during the recent coronial inquest into the death of Hamid Kehazaei, 24, a prisoner in Australias detention camp on Manus Island who died from septicaemia spreading from a cut on his foot in August 2014, after authorities delayed his evacuation for medical treatment.

Many have dire mental health problems and suffer from depression the report states, pointing to the two incidents of self-immolation on Nauru in May last year as indicators of the effects of prolonged and indefinite detention on the mental health of those imprisoned.

The Australian governments offshore operations are highly secretive, the report further notes, and service providers working for the Australian government face criminal charges and civil penalties if they disclose information about conditions for asylum seekers and refugees.

Despite these laws, current and former staff members at the detention centres have revealed some of the abuses. Last year, a leaked cache of over 2,000 incident reports from Nauru exposed endemic and systematic abuse, predominantly of children.

The HRW report also highlights the disturbing footage of children being tortured in youth detention in the Northern Territory, involving teargassing, hooding, shackling and being stripped naked. Noted as well is the introduction of further counterterrorism laws, featuring provisions that authorise the indefinite detention of those convicted of terrorist offences, even after they have served their sentences.

The HRW report points to a rapid escalation of the erosion of basic legal and democratic rights in Australia over the past year, with the attacks on refugees only the sharpest expression. However, this is not the first HRW report to detail such abuses, nor is it the first to document the horrors of Australias refugee camps. Yet, none of these reports has stopped the draconian practices.

All the major political partiesthe Liberal-National Coalition, the Labor Party and the Greensare jointly responsible for these measures. While the current Turnbull Coalition government has ramped up the assault, it was the Keating Labor government that, in 1992, introduced mandatory detention for refugees arriving by boat, making Australia the first country to do so.

In 2012, the minority Gillard Labor government, crucially propped up by the Greens, reopened the detention centres on Manus Island and Nauru, and established the inhumane regime that continues today. To cover their tracks, the Greens have been instrumental in conducting two Senate inquiries into the abuses in the facilities. Both inquiries proposed only cosmetic changes, illustrating the support by the Greens, like the rest of the political establishment, for the underlying border protection framework.

As the social conditions of the working class are increasingly attacked around the world by the corporate elite, asylum seekerstens of millions of whom are fleeing US-led warswill more and more be scapegoated by governments as a means of diverting social and class tensions in xenophobic and nationalist directions.

To fight this divisive poison, workers must unify their struggles workers across national borders, break with the political parties responsible for this crisis, and turn to an international socialist perspective. Workers must have the right to live in any country of their choosing with full citizen rights, including to work, study and receive welfare entitlements.
Last weekend, my family and I spent some time with our Yazidi friend Azzat and his wife and four kids at the Lincoln Childrens Museum. While we were there, Azzat spotted a large wall map, and he called us over so he could show us where he was from.

As he pointed to a tiny region in the northern part of Iraq, Azzat described what happened the morning ISIS invaded his village. He traced his finger along his familys escape route, away from the mountains where hundreds of Yazidi people, trapped by ISIS, would later die of starvation and dehydration.

Azzat also explained that the Yazidi people have been persecuted by ISIS because they are not people of the book, as he put it. Unlike Christians, who have the Bible (which isnt to say Christians have not been persecuted by ISIS), Jews, who have the Torah, and Muslims, who have the Koran, the Yazidi people do not have a sacred text. Their lack of a sacred book is unacceptable to radical extremist groups like ISIS. Its where ISIS draws the line and how they justify their persecution of the Yazidi people.

God used Azzats story to remind me that I, too, have a line Ive drawn. Obviously Im not going to execute anyone on the other side of my line. But what I realized, in reflecting on Azzats story, is that there are people on one side of my line I accept, and on the other side, people I am against.

I did not vote for Donald Trump, and in the months following his election, I have publicly denounced what I consider his moral and ethical flaws and his hostile views of marginalized people. Privately, in my heart and among my closest confidants, I have also denounced those who elected Donald Trump president.

Its been easy for me to keep Trump supporters over there, on the other side of my line, in the unacceptable camp. Easy, that is, until I opened my Bible this week and read this verse in Pauls letter to the Philippians: Make it as clear as you can to all you meet that youre on their side, working with them and not against them.

Note Pauls word choice: to all you meet. He isnt referring only to the people we consider on our side. According to Paul, we are to be on the side of everyone we meet, not just the people who think, act, look, worship or vote like we do.

My friend Helen did not vote for Donald Trump. However, in the days following the election, instead of railing publicly or privately against those on the other side, Helen made a different choice: She invited a small group of Trump supporters to her home to share a meal and conversation.

In extending that invitation, Helen made it clear that she was interested in working with, rather than against, the people who thought and voted differently from her. As she later explained, We would do well by each other to share a meal with those whose perspectives differ from our own in an effort to understand the complexity of their humanness. We mature and grow when we spend time with those who challenge us.

I dont know who is on the other side of your line. But I do know this: Even when we dont stand with their beliefs, we can and should stand with all our brothers and sisters, each of whom has been created in the image of God.
Figures released this week on union membership in the United States show a further sharp decline in both absolute and relative terms, with union rolls falling by some 240,000 in 2016. Union membership as a percentage of the labor force fell 0.4 percentage points to 10.7 percent. By way of contrast, union membership in 1980 as a share of the total workforce was over 20 percent.

The continued decline in union membership during a period of supposed economic recovery is a further verdict on the bankrupt and anti-working-class character of the unions.

Both public sector unions and those in private industry saw major membership losses, with membership in public sector unions falling by more than 120,000 and private sector membership by a similar figure. By some estimates the unionization rate is now at its lowest level in more than 100 years.

The unionization rate among public sector workers was 34.4 percent, while the rate among private sector workers was a miniscule 6.4 percent. New York state had the highest unionization rate at 23.6 percent, although this figure was down 1.1 percentage points from 2015. South Carolina had the lowest unionization rate at 1.6 percent, down 0.5 percentage points from 2015.

Trade union executives have blamed the loss in membership on the spread of right-to-work laws that ban labor agreements mandating union membership as a condition of employment. The union apparatus has benefited from its ability in many states to negotiate contracts that force workers to pay dues into its coffers.

While right-to-work laws are generally directed against the democratic rights of the working class as a whole, workers have no interest in being compelled to pay dues which support the utterly corrupt trade unions. The state sanctioning of unions as the exclusive workplace bargaining agent serves to uphold the unions monopoly and creates a legal obstacle for workers seeking to develop alternative forms of genuine, democratic organization.

However, in 2016, the drop in union membership did not seem to be significantly affected by the existence of right-to-work laws. The decline was across the board, covering most states and demographics. In Michigan, where a right-to-work law was enacted by the state legislature in 2013, union membership fell from 621,000 to 606,000. However, in Pennsylvania, where there is no right-to-work law in effect, union membership fell even more sharply, from 747,000 down to 685,000.

Under conditions of escalating attacks on the jobs and living standards of workers, the continued hemorrhaging of membership by the American unions is a damning indictment of these organizations. The unions exist as little more than bureaucratic shells, utterly dependent on the sufferance of the corporations and the government, which still see them to some extent as useful tools for disciplining the working class and suppressing resistance.

The reactionary nature of the unions was on display this week with attempts by union officials to cozy up to the Trump administration on the basis of shared support for economic nationalism and trade war against the overseas rivals of US capitalism. Among those praising Donald Trump was Dennis Williams, president of the United Auto Workers (UAW), who called Trumps decision to withdraw from the Trans Pacific Partnership a victory for American workers.

Continuing their role as enforcers for American big business, the unions shut down a series of strikes in 2016 that erupted in opposition to employer concession demands. This included a strike by nearly 40,000 workers at telecommunications giant Verizon.

After seven weeks on strike, the Communications Workers of America (CWA) ended picketing based on an agreement on principle and ordered Verizon workers back on the job without even revealing details of the settlement. In the end workers were saddled with a contract that contained sharp increases in health care costs, the same concessions that they originally struck to oppose.

In Philadelphia, the Transport Workers Union (TWU) shut down a powerful six-day strike in early November by transit workers in order not to interfere with the presidential election campaign of Democrat Hillary Clinton. The TWU sent workers back to work without even presenting details of the proposed new contract. The deal included steep increases in health care costs and failed to address onerous work schedules that endangered the health and safety of workers, not to mention public transit riders.

Despite decades of declining membership, the assets of the unions remain substantial and the salaries and expense accounts of the union executives continue to swell. For example, the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) reported assets of $93 million in 2016 and $327 million in receipts, not including the substantial assets of local union affiliates, which in some cases exceed those of the national union.

According to the most recent US Labor Department records, AFT President Randi Weingarten took in $497,300 in salary and expenses in 2016, putting her well within the top 1 percent of US income earners.

The CWA reported $536 million in total assets in 2016 with the unions president, Chris Shelton, raking in $218,900. Another 14 top CWA officials collected in excess of $150,000 apiece in annual expenses and salaries.

In its most recent filings the UAW reported net assets of $945 million, with $289 million in total receipts, including $28.9 million in interest income. Williams took in $170,400 in 2015 in salary and expenses as president of the UAW. This does not include payments of $120,000 from his position on the board of directors of Navistar and payments from the UAW Retiree Medical Benefits Trust (URMBT).

These figures refute the claims by various pseudo-left organizations that workers should subordinate their struggles to the corrupt union apparatuses because the unions remain working class organizations. The support for the unions on the part of these outfits, including the International Socialist Organization (ISO), reflects the strivings not of the working class, but of selfish and self-absorbed social layers seeking privileged positions in the unions as well as government and academia based on racial and gender politics.

Indeed, in many cases the personnel of the union hierarchy includes supporters of the pseudo-left, such as Jesse Sharkey of the ISO, who, according to the Chicago Sun Times, takes in nearly $100,000 in annual salary as vice president of the Chicago Teachers Union.

As the corporations, with the backing of the Trump administration, ramp up their assault on jobs, living standards and working conditions, there is a burning need for workers to organize in their workplaces as well as politically. However, the vehicle for the coming upsurge of the working class is not the trade unions. Utterly hostile to the interests of the working class, these organizations will seek to disorganize and crush any resistance to the attacks of big business.

Workers need new, independent organizations such as factory and workplace committees controlled democratically by the rank-and-file. This must be combined with the political mobilization of the working class based on a socialist and internationalist program.
Mike Pence became the highest elected official and the first sitting US vice president to address the annual March for Life, which took place on Friday in Washington, DC. The marches have been an annual event for the past 44 years, protesting the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision legalizing abortion.

Pence, a right-wing fundamentalist and long-time ally of the anti-abortion movement, spoke at the 2011 rally, when he was an Indiana congressman and before he became governor of the state. This time, as vice president, he told the marchers, numbering in the tens of thousands, life is winning again in America.

Among the other speakers at the rally was Kellyanne Conway, Trumps campaign manager and now counselor in the White House. The turnout at the march was far below that at last Saturdays Womens March in Washington.

The opponents of abortion rights have been energized by the promises of the new Trump administration to advance their cause through legislation, executive order and the appointment of ultra-right judges to the US Supreme Court. Short of overturning the 1973 decision, they expect a raft of executive and legislative measures aimed at undermining abortion rights.

One of Trumps first executive orders reinstated the so-called Mexico City policy, which restricts the use of American aid, provided through the US Agency for International Development, by any overseas non-governmental organization that provides abortion assistance or promotes abortion by discussing it in connection with family planning. This policy, so named because it was issued by Ronald Reagan in 1984 at a UN conference on world population held in the Mexican capital, has been called the Global Gag Rule by abortion rights advocates.

It has now been broadened significantly by Trump. His executive order extends its reach to all US health aid around the world. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, this will multiply the effects of the restriction, and threatens organizations that provide services for HIV infection and AIDS, as well as a range of other family and womens health services.

Trumps stance on abortion rightsnot that long ago he proclaimed himself very pro-choiceis one of many issues on which he has adopted politically convenient ultra-right positions without explanation. This, along with his selection of Kellyanne Conway as a top campaign adviser, and especially his selection of Pence as his vice presidential running mate, was designed to convince Christian fundamentalists and the Catholic Church hierarchy that he would defend their views, even as he appealed to broader sections of the population seeking to protest decades of deindustrialization and growing economic desperation.

The first week of the new administration has given the anti-abortion fanatics reason to celebrate. Pence was sent by Trump as a signal of administration support and far more aggressive pursuit of the anti-abortion crusade than was the case for past Republican presidents. Even Reagan and George W. Bush, while lauding the annual marches and professing support, only addressed the marchers via audio or video recording.

While repeating his pledge to nominate an extreme-right candidate for the Supreme Court seat that has remained vacant since the death of Antonin Scalia almost a year ago, he has named people who are uniformly and fanatically hostile to abortion rights to top cabinet positions deal with domestic social policy.

These include billionaire Betsy DeVos as secretary of education and Ben Carson, the retired neurosurgeon nominated as secretary of housing and urban development. Jeff Sessions, the Attorney General nominee, once called Roe v. Wade one of the worst Supreme Court decisions in history, and Tom Price as secretary of health and human services and Andrew Puzder as labor secretary are also on the extreme right on abortion and other so-called social issues.

Among the pieces of legislation that may be considered by Congress and, if passed, are expected to be signed into law by Trump, are measures that would bar Planned Parenthood from receiving any federal funding, a ban on abortion after 20 weeks of pregnancy, and making the Hyde Amendment, which has been attached to every federal budget for 40 years, banning federal funding for abortion, a permanent law. Abortion and family planning services have already been sharply curtailed in many parts of the country owing to punitive state legislation.
WASHINGTON (AP) -House Speaker Paul Ryan says he supports retaining sanctions on Russia.

The Wisconsin Republican made the remark as President Donald Trump has been unclear about whether he might lift them. Trump plans a phone conversation Saturday with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Ryan said Friday in an interview with Politico that he thinks the sanctions that President Barack Obama imposed were overdue. Ryan says, "So I think they should stay."

Obama issued the sanctions because of Russia's military involvement in Ukraine and because American intelligence agencies say Moscow interfered in November's U.S. elections to try to help Trump win.

Trump has spoken about possible improvements in relations with Russia. His nominee to become secretary of state, Rex Tillerson, has questioned the wisdom of sanctions on Russia.
TALLAHASSEE, FL (WTXL) -- Florida A&M University is moving forward with plans to create the first-ever African-American new network, with the university as its headquarters.

"The Black Television News Channel" will broadcast in 14 cities across the US including New York, Atlanta, and Los Angeles, with hopes of becoming a world-wide station. This comes thanks to a new agreement with Charter Communications.

FAMU first joined the project to bring the Black Television News Channel to viewers in 2014. While there is an 11-year agreement to house the network on campus, many involved are hopeful that the channel and the cooperation with the university will last much longer.

The project is expected to bring hundreds of jobs and 30 million dollars in economic stimulus to Tallahassee, in addition to training for FAMU journalism students.

"Black Television News Channel will focus on the African-American community. We will broadcast 24 hours, 7 days a week, world-wide, much like CNN or Fox, or MSNBC, says former Tallahassee mayor John Marks who is one of the principles in starting the project. "Our focus however will be on the African-American community and bringing news from an African-American perspective. That's the idea for the network at this point in time. "

The groundbreaking for the facility is scheduled for later next month. It will be then when an official date for programming will begin.

If you would like to get involved in the network, or to find out more information, contact John Marks at marksandmarksllc@gmail.com
Tallahassee, Fla. (WTXL) - Next week, Governor Rick Scott will host the 2017 Jobs Summit in Orlando.

The goal, according to Governor Scott, is to "connect business, education, economic development and community leaders to discuss the best ways to bring more jobs to our state."

"A job," Scott continued, "is the most important thing to a family, and we must fight to make sure our children and grandchildren have every opportunity to succeed in the Sunshine State."

Speakers at the event will include Travis Brown, author of How Money Walks, Stan Connally, President and CEO of Gulf Power Company, and Eric Silagy, President and CEO of Florida Power and Light.
A South Carolina man went to prison Friday for scamming rural Malcolm residents out of thousands of dollars in a driveway paving scam over the course of two months in 2014.

David F. Driver, 40, pleaded no contest to two counts of theft by deception for his involvement, but his attorney argued that he was just part of the work crew and didn't own the company.

Deputy Lancaster County Public Defender Webb Bancroft said he thought Driver had been taken advantage of by the company, which used his name to do the deals.

But Deputy Lancaster County Attorney Morgan Smith said that didn't hold weight, Driver knew what was going on.

Driver, of Westminster, South Carolina, approached the rural Lancaster County residents and offered to pave their driveways for a low estimated price. Upon completion, the price was significantly higher and the work was poorly done.

In all, authorities said, Driver scammed people out of more than $36,000.

He agreed to have his bond money, about $6,000, go to the victims.

Lancaster County District Judge Lori Maret sentenced Driver to 20 months to five years in prison.
Lincoln set a record for murders in 2016, breaking a mark that stood almost 30 years.

Eleven people were slain last year, following a year in which the city's homicide death toll was one.

But Public Safety Director Tom Casady and Police Chief Jeff Bliemeister reiterated in interviews last week that they saw no overarching patterns that would cause them to sound an alarm about public safety.

"I think it's a statistical anomaly," Casady said.

Bliemeister noted that four of the victims died in three murder-suicides.

Three died in drug-related shootings.

Two people died in random shootings, one allegedly was killed by his roommate and a convenience store clerk was killed during a robbery.

All but one died from gunshot wounds.

The killings spanned the calendar year: two in January, two in April, three in May, one each in June and July, and two in December.

The 11 homicides broke a record of 10 set in 1987, the year when Stanley Gushard, despondent over debts, killed his wife and three children before shooting himself.

But it also came as overall assaults and violent crimes dipped slightly from the past year and the city's violent crime rate held steady.

The overall rate continued to fall since peaking in 1991, Casady said, even as the population climbed from about 195,000 in 1991 to just more than 277,000 in 2015.

The murders captured wide public attention, in part, because murder is rare in Lincoln, said Bliemeister, and to some degree, that adds to a perception that Lincoln is less safe.

"Murders are not a real good indicator of violence," said Casady, because the numbers are small and fluctuate greatly, he said.

So Casady and Bliemeister look closely at violence in general and at other stats  aggravated assaults, for example  to assess overall safety.

Aggravated assaults, defined as those with the intent to inflict great bodily harm, dropped from 616 in 2015 to 587 last year.

"There's a lot of chance involved in whether an aggravated assault becomes a murder," Casady said, noting that quality of and proximity to emergency medical care often can mean the difference between life and death.

With gun violence, he said, the aim and accuracy of the shooter loom large.

"You're talking about millimeters of difference," Casady said.

Last year, the number of assaults involving firearms jumped from 69 to 86.

In most of those cases, Casady said, guns were brandished and used to threaten, but weren't discharged.

Thirteen people were hit by gunfire, five more than in 2015, he said. That number doesn't include those who were shot to death.

Casady and Bliemeister said the increase concerns them, and they'll be watching the trend closely this year.

National crime stats for last year haven't been released, but a statistical snapshot of the first six months of 2016 shows the total number of violent crimes  murder, robbery, rape and aggravated assault  increased 5 percent over the same period in 2015.

Casady said he doesn't know what that might mean for Lincoln, where those crimes dropped about 1 percent from 2015 to 2016.

When Bliemeister took the reins of the police department April 26, his investigators were deep into their probe of the death of Christopher Coleman, who was shot in his central Lincoln home April 18.

Within Bliemeister's first three months, five people were killed.

Added to the murders was an officer-involved shooting during an encounter between a murder suspect and officers in the Belmont neighborhood, as well as the manhunt for two escaped sex offenders who snuck out of a Lincoln prison in a laundry truck.

The events strained resources and made for long hours for Lincoln police detectives, Bliemeister said.

But, he said, he quickly found out his investigators handle so-called "critical incidents" well, and he was overwhelmed by the diligence of officers, investigators and crime-scene technicians.

LPD investigators cleared every murder case last year, five with arrests and six because the perpetrators died as well.

The case that worried Bliemeister and Casady the most came July 7, when Robert Hanna was gunned down during a robbery by an unknown man.

"That was a huge concern, because we did not know who the individual was for a period of time," said the chief.

Investigators ran down dozens of leads, generated 230 detailed reports, took 19 witness statements and in September announced they had enough evidence to believe Rodzela Jones of Mississippi killed Hanna. But officers wouldn't get to make an arrest; Jones was found dead in Mississippi on July 19.

In all murders, Bliemeister and Casady said, they take a deep look at the back stories of those involved.

"Is there something that we could have done to prevent these crimes from happening?" Bliemeister asked. "The reality is, we can't make that nexus."

Despite the increase in the number of murder investigations, he said, clearance rates for serious crimes in Lincoln remained steady at 25 percent.

"All of these are just a snapshot of what we do," he said.

In addition to investigating 1,012 violent crimes, the department also worked 8,972 car accidents and 2,700 mental-health investigations, the chief said.

Statistics are important to track and monitor so officials and the public can evaluate the department, he said.

"Its important for people to recognize (the murder statistic) for what it is so we can try to improve, but also for what it is not," the chief said.

"Overall, Lincoln still remains a very safe place to live," he said.
Juvenile Justice is a TV show from South Korea. The audience liked it. IMDb gave it 8.1 out of 10 points. There is crime and drama on the show
Man gets 30 years for killing girlfriend in front of son on I-90 in E. Washington
VANTAGE, Wash.  Walls of basalt, from the Royal Columns above the Tieton River west of Nach
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The women's march of Yakima, Wash. took place Jan. 21, 2017 when people marched the streets in protest of any attempts to rollback women's rights. The theme was of equality, respect, and justice. (ANNA ERGESON (Selah High School)
Cara Pedrosa is a freshman at Davis High School and is a member of the Yakima Herald-Republics Unleashed program for teen journalists.
Dozens of demonstrators rallied in front of the Nebraska Union Saturday in protest of Phi Gamma Delta fraternity members, who allegedly harassed protesters at last week's Women's March.

Saturday's protest, which was organized online by the activist group La Alianza, was intended to "smash the patriarchy."

Watched by a cordon of UNL police officers, protesters chanted "f--- FIJI" and "no means no; yes means yes," a direct reference to the chant "no means yes" that Phi Gamma Delta members -- known as FIJIs -- allegedly shouted at the Women's March.

UNL's Title IX Office opened an investigation into the allegations last week. An internal review by the fraternity uncovered no wrongdoing. However protesters like Valerie Smith of Lincoln, who carried a sign that read "no means no," thinks Phi Gamma Delta is bluffing.

"They're claiming total innocence," Smith said. "They need to know that they offended a lot of people."

Protesters met in front of the Phi Gamma Delta house, which appeared to be empty, around 2 p.m. and later moved across the street to confront onlookers outside the Nebraska Union. A brief sit-in inside the union followed.

Tia Rasmussen, a 19-year-old sophomore at UNL, showed up to see how La Alianza would protest. Members of Anti-Fascist Action Nebraska, a militant protest group, also showed up in all black and threw red-painted tampons at the FIJI house.

"I think that it's important to fight for women's health issues, for women's rights ... especially at this critical time in our country, but I think there's a way to do it in a mature way," Rasmussen said.

Rasmussen, who confronted protesters at the doors of the Nebraska Union, defended their right to protest but hoped for more constructive debate over "rape culture" on college campuses.

"We need to create a dialogue where everyones voices are heard, she said.

Dale Gutierrez, co-founder of La Alianza, said his group was able to talk to a few fraternity members from houses other than FIJI at Saturday's protest. But, according to Gutierrez, these discussions were made difficult by the motives of some protesters.

"We hope to have a dialogue," Gutierrez said, "but when the militant groups show up that kind of goes out the window."

Although police dispersed the crowd 50 minutes after the protest began, Wyatt Nelson of Lincoln believes there will be more protests in the future.

"We're here to show them (Phi Gamma Delta) it's not acceptable," Nelson said. "The revolution is just getting started."

Representatives of FIJI did not respond to requests for comment.
Holdrege police got the call Wednesday morning: A house on the 600 block of Burlington Street was flying an upside-down U.S. flag.

The sign of danger, of dire distress.

So we responded, police dispatcher Tori Johnston said Friday. And theyre just in distress over Trump.

The distraught are Democrats living in the center of town in a county (Phelps) that gave more than 83 percent of its vote to President Donald Trump.

And the flag has been a fixture on Burlington Street for years. Brian Osborn put it out on Sept. 11, 2001, and it flew there, right-side-up, until after the presidential election in November.

He put it back out, upside-down, on Trumps inauguration day.

I think the things the flag stands for are far more important than the flag itself, he said.

The 65-year-old was home when the officer arrived for the well-being check, but his longtime accomplice answered the door. Trish Sheffield explained to the officer it was a political statement, that the nation is now in distress.

The officer grinned and left, Osborn said.

Most people who know him wont be surprised, he said. Hes a self-described rabble-rouser, a letter-to-the-editor writer who started an anti-Trump Facebook page.

And most people around here are going to consider it somewhat humorous, he said. But my reasons for doing it werent necessarily humorous.

Hes repulsed by Trumps treatment of women. Hes worried about the future of the First Amendment. Hes worried about America's relationship with Mexico. Hes worried about how veterans will be treated.

I think a lot of veterans are going to be raising their heads here real soon, just like the women did last week," the former sailor said. "Well be the next group marching in the streets.

The visit from the police officer made the Holdrege newspaper, and then Facebook, so the story is spreading. And Osborn isn't sure what that means for his future as commander of the Martin-Horn American Legion Post 66.

I dont know. I don't know how the other members are going to see me.
About half a million Jews live in France today, most of whom are of Tunisian, Algerian and Moroccan descent. The percentage of marriages between Jews and non-Jews, the assimilation rate , is almost 50 percent  less than the United States (65 percent) but more than Canada (35 percent). In those two countries, the US and Canada, most Jews are Conservative and Reform. In France, however, the number of Conservative and Reform Jews is no more than 2 percent, together.

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And here, the Jews of North Africa, most of whom arrived in France only in the middle of the 20th century, and who only met Orthodoxy, without any disturbances and background noises, underwent an accelerated assimilation process at a record pace. What happed in America in 200 years happened in France in 50 years. Orthodoxy, unintentionally, managed to systematically alienate most of the countrys Jews from their identity. They saw it as irrelevant. If there had been Conservative and Reform Jews there, things would have looked different.

Soldiers outside a synagogue in France. An almost 50 percent assimilation rate (Archive photo: Israel Bardugo)

I dont like the world assimilation. There is something arrogant and patronizing about it. The euphemistic term interfaith marriage is more suitable, as it is less judgmental. But forget about the word, the problem itself is acute. In the modern world, Jews face a shocking challenge. Secularization on the one hand, and the option of assimilating on the other hand, have made the impossible possible.

If it were not for anti-Semitism, which occasionally raised its head and decreased the trend; and if it were not for Zionism, which offered a Jewish existence even without mitzvoth; and if it were not for the Holocaust, which disrupted plans from a different direction  the rate of interfaith marriage between members of the Jewish people and members of other religions would have been much higher than today.

The only place where the Jewish people are growing is here, in Israel. And not because we are better or stronger from a national, cultural or religious perspective, but because we live in a majority. We assimilate amongst ourselves.

Interfaith marriage in the Diaspora should concern anyone who cares about the continuation of the Jewish people. One can approach this issue from a religious reference point, one can connect to it from a national or cultural position, but one cannot remain indifferent to it. The statistical data are clear. We are diminishing, and if we dont learn how to deal with this historic trend we will decrease in alarming dimensions.

The Haredi hate discourse against the non-Orthodox streams is blinding. Many people, including completely secular politicians, blindly accept anything said by Shas Chairman Aryeh Deri and Knesset Member Moshe Gafni (United Torah Judaism), who time and again rant that Conservative and Reform Jews are to blame for assimilation in the Diaspora. But that is so implausible that its hard to know where to begin. Its not even a theological dispute. Its pure ignorance.

Those who understand that, those who fight, who invest intellectual and physical resources, are the Conservative and Reform Jews. For hundreds of years now  since these movements were born  they have been courageously and successfully dealing with the blessed threat (yes, thats an oxymoron) that the emancipation and the modern world imparted on the Jewish people with. Each of the religious denominations of the Jewish people  Orthodox, Conservative and Reform  have a well-established and self-justified Jewish outlook. But the question here is not right or wrong, or who is right. The numbers speak for themselves. Orthodoxy, which represents a small minority in the Jewish people, has a solution which suits few people, period.

Raising the walls does not create more Jews. It never did. Thats a myth. Faced by a reality in which the easiest thing to do is to assimilate, the two liberal movements are putting up a fight. Each in its own way, each with its own successes and failures, but those who belong to them assimilate much less. They are the solution, not the problem. They are fighting  creatively, faithfully, with a lot of love  to make Judaism relevant, to match the Jewish tradition to this era. That is, by the way, what our Sages of Blessed Memory did at the time.

So the next time someone tells you that the Conservative and Reform Jews are to blame for assimilation, buy them a ticket to France. Reality, so it seems, is completely different.
More and more American Jews, especially millennials, are far less attached to Israel than their parents were, a situation that has both Israeli officials and American Jewish leaders concerned about the future. The intensifying trend comes as President Donald Trump begins his time in the White House, while some in Israel are calling for controversial moves such as annexing part or all of the West Bank, which could deepen liberal American Jews alienation.

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Many young Jews around the world have stopped talking about Israel, Tamar Zandberg, a Knesset member from the dovish Meretz party, told The Media Line. In the past, Israel was always an issue of consensus, then an issue of debate, and now it is not an issue.

She says the reasons are both political and religious. There is a feeling that the State of Israel is abandoning the support of Jewish communities around the world, both by not acknowledging other streams of Judaism, and by shutting our ears in Israel to the criticism and discontent that sometimes exists on Israels policy in the West Bank.

Photo: AFP

One oft-repeated joke in Israel is that the synagogue I dont go to is Orthodox. In Israel, Orthodox Judaism has a monopoly on issues of personal status including marriage and divorce.

Although a majority of Israelis define themselves as secular, they observe many Jewish traditions and are willing to get married by an Orthodox rabbi so their marriage would be recognized in Israel.

In the US, about half of American Jews identify as either Reform (35 percent) or Conservative (18 percent), according to the Pew Research Centers most recent survey on the matter. In Isael, the survey found, only five percent say they are Reform or Conservative, while half identify with Orthodoxy, even if they are not scrupulously observant themselves. About 40 percent of Israelis said they did not identify with any stream of Judaism.

Israel defines anyone who has a Jewish mother or was converted by an Israeli-approved Orthodox rabbi, as Jewish, meaning they can marry in Israel.

More and more American Jews know another American Jew who was not able to marry in Israel or whose rights were somehow circumscribed in a way that American Jews cant even begin to understand, Jonathan Sarna, a professor of American Jewish history at Brandeis University, told The Media Line. Jews are less than two percent in America, and yet Jews have extraordinary rights. Its hard for them to understand why Reform or Conservative Jews are not given religious equality in Israel.

One issue of contention has been the right of Reform and Conservative women to read Torah at the Western Wall , known in Hebrew as the Kotel. Women trying to do so have been attacked , and their Torah scrolls confiscated . The Israeli Supreme Court this month indicated that it will soon rule to allow women to read from the Torah at the womens section of the Western Wall plaza.

The court gave the rabbi of the Western Wall, Shmuel Rabinowitz, 30 days to respond why that should not become the new policy.

Some American Jewish analysts say that part of the diminished attachment is because of the rising rate of intermarriage . Among non-Orthodox Jews, a whopping 72 percent have gentile spouses, according to the Pew survey.

I wouldnt call it a rift but there is definitely a diminished attachment to Israel, Steven M. Cohen, Professor of Jewish Social Policy at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, told The Media Line. The reason fewer young people care about Israel is that there are fewer young Jewish people. The children of intermarriages are less attached to being Jewish and especially less attached to Israel.

Some of that is being countered by Birthright , a program that brings young Jews between the ages of 18 and 26 to Israel for free ten day trips. Cohen says that after Birthright, there is a spike in connection to Israel, but if the participants do not come back to Israel, the Brthright effect gradually wanes.

The increasingly tenuous connection between millennial American Jews and Israel has people on both sides concerned. Some fear that US financial support for Israel could waver without strong support from American Jews.

I am convinced that without the pressure of the American Jewish community the US would support Israel but not to the degree that it does, Dov Zakheim, the chairman of the Jewish Religious Equality Coalition of the American Jewish Committee and a former senior US Defense official, told The Media Line. Most Israelis think President Obama is no friend of Israel, but he just committed nearly $40 billion for ten years. Why did he do it? It wasnt just because of the evangelical Christians. If the Jewish community had not been active in support of this, I doubt he would have done this.

Article written by Linda Gradstein.
The Jewish Agency for Israel, which usually deals with immigration to Israel and Zionism among Jewish communities around the world, has been funding security measures for Jewish communities over the past four years in light of the rise in anti-Semitic incidents.

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110 synagogues, 80 schools and preschools, and 75 community centers are just a few of the projects taken on by the The Jewish Agencys Emergency Assistance Fund for Jewish Communities, which is revealed here for the first time, on the occasion of International Holocaust Remembrance Day.

115 communities have secured the entrances to buildings, 90 communities installed closed circuit television systems, fences were built around 50 Jewish community facilities, and 30 institutions installed gates and padlocks for the safety of the community's population thanks to the Funds support. In addition, protective equipment was donated to numerous communities.

Athens: installation of bullet-proof windows

'Preventing another Toulouse'

The Fund was set up following the Toulouse terror attack in 2012, which claimed the lives of a teacher and three students at a Jewish school. The terrorist entered the school freely, without any security measuresa gate, a camera, a guard, or a screening boothto stop him. It was Natan Sharansky, the chairman of The Jewish Agency, who initiated the establishment of the Fund.

"We know that a terrorist looking to harm Jews will look for the easiest target, and any security measure standing in his way will contribute to deterrence, explained Josh Schwarcz, The Jewish Agency's secretary-general, who directs the Emergency Assistance Fund.

We asked ourselves which other communities worldwide face similar situations and how many such schools do not have the means to protect themselves. This took place at the same time as the rise in global anti-Semitism, the return of ISIS fighters from Syria and Iraq to Europe, a rise in the level of threats, and the number of murderous terror attacks. In coordination with the government, we decided to set up the Fund for Jewish communities, based on the core value that all Israel are responsible for one another, Schwarcz continued.

33.5 NIS million to protect the Jewish communities

The Fund collects contributions from Jewish donors around the world, without any Israeli governmental funding. So far, the Fund has helped over 200 Jewish communities and organizations worldwide, and allotted NIS 33.5 million for security measures in those communities.

Any Jewish community interested in receiving monetary assistance needs to submit a detailed application via the internet, specifying its needs: a fence, cameras, gates, screening booths, concrete obstacles, bullet proof glass, intercom and locking systems, and so on.

Security officers working on behalf of the Fund visit the community to examine its request. Many times the security officer discovers that the request was simply impractical. For instance, one community asked to install 20 cameras, but the officer reached the conclusion that a much smaller number would be sufficient.

Installation of a tall fence in South American Jewish community

Not in North America

The Fund decided not to subsidize guards for Jewish institutions for financial reasons: in France alone there are 700 Jewish institutions, and the cost of hiring guards for each one would be prohibitive.

There was one exception, though: after the terror attack in the HyperCacher kosher supermarket in Paris, the community experienced tremendous anxiety and there was a serious lack of trained Jewish security guards.

The Fund decided to distribute challenge grants to schools to encourage the hiring of guards based on a matching system: for every shekel put in by the Fund, the community matched it, and after three years, the community commits to taking the funding upon itself.

"Today, thanks to the Fund, there are 23 additional trained Jewish security guards in Jewish schools around France," said Schwarcz.

The Fund decided against purchasing weapons and instead has been focusing on security measures and protection. We are helping Jews protect themselves. It is important to note that the Agency is not responsible for the safety of Jews in the Diaspora, but in a climate of fear, Jews simply do not frequent the community's establishments. Jewish life cannot thrive or, in some cases, even exist. We do not want Jews to make Aliyah out of fear, but rather out of a sense of attachment and belonging, which is a large part of why we would like to ensure the safe participation of Jews in Jewish and Zionist activities."

Among the larger donors to the Fund are the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust, the Genesis Philanthropy Group, and The Jewish Federations of North America. The wealthy and powerful North American communities know how to take care of themselves, representatives of the Fund say, which is why the Fund does not operate there. They mostly help communities of limited resources, as well as communities in distress.

To date, some 58 percent of the funding has gone to Jewish communities in Europe, 15 percent has gone to the former Soviet Union, 15 percent has gone to Latin America, and the remainder has been distributed around the rest of the world.

Schwarcz added that, to the best of his knowledge, most western governments take the issue of keeping Jewish communities safe very seriously, and allot resources for this.
US President Donald Trump on Friday put a four-month hold on allowing refugees into the United States and temporarily barred travelers from Syria and six other Muslim-majority countries, saying the moves would help protect Americans from terrorist attacks.

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In the most sweeping use of his presidential powers since taking office a week ago, Trump paused the entry of travelers from Syria and the six other nations for at least 90 days, saying his administration needed time to develop more stringent screening processes for refugees, immigrants and visitors. He signed the order immediately after he and Vice President Mike Pence swore in new Defense Secretary James Mattis.

 : 

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"I'm establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America. Don't want them here," Trump said earlier on Friday at the Pentagon.

"We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people," he said.

L to R: Pence, Trump and Mattis (Photo: AFP)

The order bars the entry of foreign nationals from certain countries for 90 days. While no countries are specifically named in the order, it refers to a statute that would apply to seven Muslim-majority nations: Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia, Yemen and Iran. There is an exception for certain types of visas, including for diplomats and the United Nations.

The temporary halt is aimed at giving the Department of Homeland Security, the State Department and the Director of National Intelligence time to determine what information is needed from each country to ensure that visas are not issued to individuals posing a national security threat.

The order calls for a review to create a single process for screening people entering the country, which could include holding more in-person interviews, searches of an expanded database of identity documents or longer application forms.

Under the current system, some visa applications require interviews but others do not. The government already has extensive databases but some believe they need to be expanded.

The order suspends the Visa Interview Waiver Program, which allows consular officers to exempt some applicants from face-to-face interviews if they are seeking to renew their temporary visas within a year of expiration.

Immigration attorneys say the changes will make even routine applications much more complicated and time consuming and could mean that more people will need assistance to get through the visa process. In an attempt to ensure wait times for interviews are "not unduly affected," the order calls for the hiring of more consular fellows to work in U.S. embassies abroad.

One group said it would announce a court challenge on Monday. The Council on American-Islamic Relations said the order targets Muslims because of their faith, contravening the US Constitutional right to freedom of religion.

Trump, Pence swear in Mattis (Photo: AFP)

"President Trump has cloaked what is a discriminatory ban against nationals of Muslim countries under the banner of national security," said Greg Chen of the American Immigration Lawyers Association.

The bans, though temporary, took effect immediately, causing havoc and confusion for would-be travelers with passports from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

Trump (Photo: Reuters)

Trump has long pledged to take this kind of action, making it a prominent feature of his campaign for the Nov. 8 election, but people who work with Muslim immigrants and refugees were scrambling on Friday night to determine the scope of the order.

Even legal permanent residentspeople with "green cards" allowing them to live and work in the United Stateswere being advised to consult immigration lawyers before traveling outside the country, or trying to return, said Muslim Advocates, a civil rights group in Washington.

On Friday evening, Abed Ayoub of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee said he had fielded about 100 queries from people anxious about the order, which he said he believed could affect traveling green card holders, students, people coming to the United States for medical care and others.

"It's chaos," Ayoub said.

During his campaign, Trump tapped into American fears about Islamic State militants and the flood of migrants into Europe from Syria's civil war, saying refugees could be a "Trojan horse" that allowed attackers to enter the United States.

In December 2015, he called for a ban on all Muslims entering the United States, drawing fire for suggesting a religious test for immigrants that critics said would violate the US Constitution.

His idea later evolved into a proposal for "extreme vetting."

Trump's order also suspends the Syrian refugee program until further notice, and will eventually give priority to minority religious groups fleeing persecution.

The order does, however, seek to prioritize refugees fleeing religious persecution, a move Trump separately said was aimed at helping Christians in Syria, as Trump said in an interview with the Christian Broadcasting Network that the exception would help Syrian Christians fleeing the civil war there. That led some legal experts to question whether the order was constitutional.

"If they are thinking about an exception for Christians, in almost any other legal context discriminating in favor of one religion and against another religion could violate the constitution," said Stephen Legomsky, a former chief counsel at US Citizenship and Immigration Services in the Obama administration.

But Peter Spiro, a professor at Temple University Beasley School of Law, said Trump's action would likely be constitutional because the president and Congress are allowed considerable deference when it comes to asylum decisions.

"It's a completely plausible prioritization, to the extent this group is actually being persecuted," Spiro said.

Trump's order had been expected to include a directive about setting up "safe zones" for Syrian refugees inside the country, but no such language was included on Friday.

The order may also affect special refugee programs for Iraqis who worked for the US government as translators after the 2003 invasion of Iraq.

It is already affecting refugees and their families, said Jen Smyers of the Church World Service, a Protestant faith-based group that works with migrants.

Smyers said she spoke to an Iraqi mother whose twin daughters remain in Iraq due to processing delays. "Those two 18-year-old daughters won't be able to join their mother in the US," she said.

Democrats on Friday were quick to condemn Trump's order as un-American, saying it would tarnish the reputation of the United States as a land that welcomes immigrants.

"Today's executive order from President Trump is more about extreme xenophobia than extreme vetting," said Democratic Senator Edward Markey in a statement.

Some Republicans praised the move. Representative Bob Goodlatte, chairman of the House of Representatives Judiciary Committee, said Islamic State has threatened to use the US immigration system, making it important to do more screening.

"I am pleased that President Trump is using the tools granted to him by Congress and the power granted by the Constitution to help keep America safe and ensure we know who is entering the United States," Goodlatte said in a statement.

Republican Speaker Paul Ryan, who had panned Trump's original campaign pledge to ban Muslims from entering the United States, expressed some support on Friday.

"We are a compassionate nation, and I support the refugee resettlement program, but it's time to reevaluate and strengthen the visa vetting process," Ryan said.

"President Trump is right to make sure we are doing everything possible to know exactly who is entering our country," Ryan said.
British Prime Minister Theresa May, who met with US President Donald Trump in Washington, is due to arrive in Turkey for a meeting with President Recep Tayyip Erdogananother important but complicated British ally.

Talks in Ankara on Saturday will focus on boosting trade between Turkey and Britain once the UK leaves the European Union, and on increasing cooperation over security and counterterrorism. The British prime minister is under pressure to condemn Turkey's clampdown on civil liberties since the government crushed a coup attempt in July.

Her office said Britain urged Turkey "to ensure that their response is proportionate, justified and in line with international human rights obligations." May and Turkish leaders are also expected to discuss the conflict in Syria and efforts to reunite Cyprus.
Hard-left Socialist rebel Benoit Hamon heads into France's left-wing presidential primary runoff as a surprising favorite to beat pro-business pragmatist Manuel Valls, in a vote that will realign France's unpredictable presidential campaign.

Hamon is the favorite in Sunday's vote after arriving in pole position in the first round with 36 percent of the votes. He has proposed a "determined and optimistic leftist alternative." His most talked-about proposal is a 750 euros ($800) "universal income" that would be gradually granted to all adults. He is now backed by another left-wing candidate, Arnaud Montebourg, eliminated from the race with 17.5 percent of the votes.

Valls, who arrived second with 31.4 percent, criticized Hamon's "unrealistic" promises. A former junior minister and briefly education minister, Hamon left the government in 2014. He then led a group of rebel Socialist lawmakers who opposed the government's economic policies. "Yesterday's failed solutions have no reason to become successes tomorrow," he said at a rally near Paris Thursday.
Iraqis who say their lives are in danger because they worked with the US government in Iraq fear their chances of finding refuge in the United States may vanish under a new order signed on Friday by President Donald Trump. The order temporarily suspends the United States' main refugee program and halts visas being issued to citizens of several predominantly Muslim countries, including Iraq. It is expected to affect two programs US lawmakers created a few years after the 2003 invasion of Iraq to help the tens of thousands of Iraqis who risked their lives helping Americans.

Trump says the order is necessary to prevent Islamist militants from coming to the United States posing as refugees, but refugee advocacy groups say the lengthy screening of applicants by multiple US agencies makes this fear unfounded.

Iraqis coming to the United States under the Special Immigrant Visa program for Iraqis, which stopped accepting new applications in 2014, or the ongoing Direct Access Program for US-Affiliated Iraqis are losing hope of ever getting out. "Mr. Trump, the new president, killed our dreams," said one Baghdad man whose wife worked for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) as a bookkeeper. More than 7,000 Iraqis, many of them interpreters for the US military, have resettled in the United States under the Special Immigrant Visa program since 2008, while another 500 or so are still being processed, according to State Department figures. Another 58,000 Iraqis were awaiting interviews under the Direct Access program, according to the International Refugee Assistance Project. Tens of thousands have already arrived under the second program, but no recent total was available.
Germany and France agree that any moves to lift sanctions against Russia must be tied to progress in the peace process for eastern Ukraine, German Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel said on Saturday.

"We in Germany and France have a clear position on the sanctions," Gabriel said during the news conference with his French counterpart Jean-Marc Ayrault. "We wish to implement the Minsk peace process ... And that is the only way that sanctions can be lifted."

Gabriel said he and Ayrault also agreed that it was important that Germany and France express strong unified positions on issues. He said the two countries would create bilateral working groups to address issues such as Ukraine and Russia.
An Iranian family slipped through, touching down at the Lincoln Airport less than two hours before President Donald Trump halted refugee arrivals from around the world.

Abdul Bari's wife and two children should have been on that flight, too.

They were stuck instead at the airport in Kabul, their connecting flight from Afghanistan grounded due to apparent bad weather.

Instead of showing his wife and their boys, ages 2 and 4, around their new apartment in Lincoln, Bari is waiting to learn when he'll see them again.

"She still doesn't know that she's not coming," he said Saturday. "I'm just trying to control myself. ... They even got their boarding passes. They were all ready."

Local refugee resettlement agencies say they don't believe any Nebraska-bound refugees were among those detained at U.S. airports when Trump's Friday order took immediate effect, suspending entry even for those whose flights were already in the air.

But at least four families who planned to depart for Lincoln over the weekend  two from Iraq, one from Afghanistan and a man from Sudan  now face uncertain paths forward. Two Afghan families who were expected in Omaha next week, their plane tickets already purchased, are in similar situations.

The Iranian family made it just in time.

"They're lucky ones. And they know they're lucky ones," said Vanja Pejanovic, who coordinates Lincoln-area resettlement for Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska, the state's largest resettlement agency.

Nebraska took in more refugees per capita than any other state in the fiscal year which ended in September. Trump's order scrambled plans for hundreds more, people scattered across the globe and planning to relocate here in the coming days and months.

"We want a reunion of my family as soon as possible," said Bari, 30, who arrived in the U.S. on Nov. 8, the same day Trump was elected.

He helped the U.S. military and State Department as an interpreter and quality control expert for half a decade before taking a position with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, where he helped other Afghans who were internally displaced or seeking resettlement abroad.

More than five years ago, he started pursuing refugee status himself because helping Americans made him fear for his safety.

Now, if the United States pulls the rug out from under his family and others like them, it risks "losing the trust of the Afghan people very soon," he said.

U.S. Sen. Ben Sasse made a similar argument Saturday, calling Trump's executive order "too broad."

"If we send a signal to the Middle East that the U.S. sees all Muslims as jihadis, the terrorist recruiters win by telling kids that America is banning Muslims and that this is America versus one religion," Sasse, a Republican, said in a news release.

Nebraska state Sen. Tom Brewer of Gordon, a retired Army colonel who served six tours in Afghanistan, said the U.S. has an obligation to Afghans who aid U.S. troops and foreign officials.

But he stopped short of condemning Trump's executive order.

"If it is simply a pause to assure that there is a valid, safe process to determine whether or not we are bringing in people who don't put us at risk, then I think that's probably a valid concern," Brewer said.

Refugees from some countries, specifically Syria, often lack any documentation that could be used to verify their backgrounds, Brewer said.

He also argues that states should have more say in how many resettled refugees they accept and where they accept them from. He sponsored a bill in the state Legislature this year to require the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services to track refugees resettled here and report on the associated costs to the state.

"I don't have an issue with bringing in refugees," Brewer said. "I have a concern with the inability of Nebraska to have any oversight on who's coming in and what resources are going to be necessary to support them here."

In Bari's case, he said: "I would personally get involved to try and help make sure that his family was able to come over. If they risk their lives for us, then we have an obligation, I believe, to give them opportunities."

Trumps executive order suspends admission of all refugees for 120 days. It also temporarily bars all citizens from Syria and six other Muslim-majority countries  Iraq, Iran, Yemen, Sudan, Libya and Somalia  and calls for a new system to tighten screening of people seeking entry to the U.S. from those countries.

A vast majority of refugees resettled in Lincoln last fiscal year were from Iraq: 287 of the city's 367 arrivals, according to Lutheran Family Services. Another 15 came from Somalia, 12 from Iran and eight from Sudan.

Those individuals went through 18 months of screening or more, resettlement officials say.

Ruth Henrichs, president and CEO of Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska, said the agency doesn't help refugees based on their religion, but rather because of its own Christian-based mission.

"It is precisely because of our faith understanding of the Gospel call to serve and care for our neighbor that we do this work," Henrichs said in a news release.

We cannot forget who refugees are  they are parents, children and the most vulnerable among us who have lost everything," she said. "They have fled discrimination, threats and violence  seeking safety and hope for a better future.
British Prime Minister Theresa May on Saturday met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, a day after a friendly meeting in Washington with US President Donald Trump. May flew overnight to Ankara by RAF Voyager jet from the US, where she and Trump proclaimed a new chapter in the trans-Atlantic "special relationship."

The talks with Erdogan and Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim were expected to focus on boosting trade between Turkey and Britain once the UK leaves the European Union, and on increasing cooperation over security and counterterrorism.

May, who is paying her first visit to Turkey since becoming prime minister, is under pressure at home to condemn Turkey's clampdown on civil liberties since the government crushed a coup attempt in July. Turkey has detained tens of thousands of people suspected of links to a movement led by US-based Muslim cleric Fethullah Gulen, whom the government accuses of orchestrating the failed attempt. More than 100,000 others have been dismissed from government jobs. The crackdown extended to other government opponents. More than a hundred journalists and pro-Kurdish party leaders are in jail.
It's nighttime in the Binyamin region. A Palestinian family from the village of Al-Lubban ash-Sharqiya notices an upturned bus that had rolled downhill from the nearby road leading to the West Bank settlement of Ma'ale Levona. Without a moment to lose, the family heads out while still in their pajamas, and under the pouring rain assist those hurt in the accident, where two people had lost their lives.

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Capt. Sivan Raviv, a medical officer in the Binyamin Division, told Ynet that the family was the first to call emergency services late Friday night, and that their quick thinking saved lives. "They didn't hesitate or stop to weigh things out. They saw that human lives were on the line. When we arrived at the site we saw the family members already trying to extract the injured parties and offer them treatment."

Emergency services rush to the site of the accident (:  )

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The upturned bus (Photo: Judea and Samaria Fire Fighting and Rescue Unit)

An emergency services ambulance arrives on the scene

At that very moment, the region's complex reality was underscored when a few kilometers away from the accident infantry soldiers from the Kfir Brigade were in hot pursuit of an armed terrorist near the Palestinian village of Aboud, where two shooting attacks had taken place with a 24-hour period. When word of the accident reached them, the soldiers divided into two groupsone to continue the chase after the terrorist, and the other to go tend to those hurt in the accident. Once arriving on the scene, they worked together with members of the Palestinian family to help rescue the injured parties.

Capt. Raviv

Photo: TPS

Emergency services divise a rescue plan (Photo: Judea and Samaria Fire Fighting and Rescue Unit)

Shortly after the family called to report the accident, Magen David Adom, a fire fighting unit, residents from Ma'ale Levona and additional medical teams arrived, and together they managed to evacuate those injured to several hospitals within an hour and a half. "We didn't give up," said Sivan. "It was hard to carry those injured on gurneys through the mud, while we fell down, got back up and lifted them once more, until reaching the ambulances and the two helicopters belonging to Unit 669 (the IDF Combat Search and Rescue united) that were waiting for us nearby."

Photo: TPS

"We realized this wasn't a regular occurrence," recalled Raviv. "The bus was turned over and completely destroyed. We couldn't afford to miss any one. The bus was totally crushed. We weren't thinking of anything but their quick extraction."
France and Germany voiced disquiet on Saturday over US President Donald Trump's decision to limit immigration and refugees from some Muslim countries, and they reaffirmed a firm line on Russian sanctions. Speaking at a joint news conference in Paris with his German counterpart Sigmar Gabriel, French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault said many of Trump's decisions worried the two US allies, including new immigration restrictions.

Trump on Friday signed an executive order that will curb immigration and refugees from some Muslim-majority countries and he separately said he wanted the United States to give priority to Syrian Christians fleeing the civil war there. "This can only worry us, but there are many subjects that worry us," Ayrault said, adding that he would soon invite his future American counterpart Rex Tillerson to Paris to explain Europe's interests, values and vision of the world. "Welcoming refugees who flee war and oppression is part of our duty," Ayrault said.

Germany has taken in more than one million refugees and migrants, mainly from the Middle East, since 2015.
Cairo airport officials say six US-bound migrantsfive from Iraq and one from Yemenhave been prevented from boarding an EgyptAir flight to New York's JFK airport.

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The officials said the action Saturday by the airport was the first since President Donald Trump imposed a three-month ban on refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries: Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen.

Trump signing a presidential order (Photo: Reuters)

The officials said the six migrants, escorted by officials from the UN refugee agency, were stopped from boarding the plane after authorities at Cairo airport contacted their counterparts in JFK airport.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to brief the media.

Photo: AP

The head of a leading refugee aid agency says President Donald Trump's decision to ban Syrian refugees hurts innocents fleeing violence.

Jan Egeland of the Norwegian Refugee Council said on Saturday that Trump's decision "will not make America safer, it will make America smaller and meaner."

An Egyptair plane (Photo: EPA)

Trump on Friday suspended refugee admissions for four months and indefinitely banned those from war-torn Syria, pending program changes that are to ensure refugees won't harm national security.

Egeland said the decision dealt a "mortal blow" to the idea of international responsibility for those fleeing persecution. He said the US is leading a "race to the bottom" in which politicians in wealth countries provide "zero moral leadership."

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani says the time has come for removing walls between nations rather that building new ones.

Rouhani did not name any particular country but his remarks come shortly after President Donald Trump's executive order Friday suspending all immigration and visa processes for nationals from a handful of countries with terrorism concerns, including Iran, for 90 days.

Rouhani said Saturday that, "It is not the day for creating distance among nations."

Speaking at a tourism conference broadcast on state TV, Rouhani said that those seeking to create such walls, "have forgotten that the Berlin Wall collapsed years ago."

The International Rescue Committee is calling President Donald Trump's suspension of the US refugee resettlement program a "harmful and hasty" decision.

In a statement issued late Friday night after the suspension was announced, IRC President David Miliband said, "America must remain true to its core values. America must remain a beacon of hope."

The IRC statement declared that the US vetting process for prospective refugees is already robustinvolving biometric screening and up to 36 months of vetting by "12 to 15 government agencies."

Miliband praised The United States' record as a resettlement destination and said, "This is no time for America to turn its back on people ready to become patriotic Americans."
Spain's maritime rescue service reported that 49 African migrants have been rescued from a boat found 75 miles (120 kilometers) off the country's southern coast.

According to Spanish government sources, the migrants had been lost at sea since Thursday. After being tipped off by Moroccan authorities, the maritime rescue service was able to locate the boat late Friday. Despite rough sea conditions, all 49 occupants arrived safely and in good health at Almeria port early Saturday, the maritime rescue service said.

The Spanish government reinforced its border patrols last year after thousands of African migrants were able to reach European soil.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the construction of 68 housing units in the West Bank settlement of Ofra to replace the nine houses that the High Court of Justice had ordered to be demolished. The Prime Minister's Office explained on Friday that this step was taken to prevent clashes when the illegal houses, built on private Palestinian land, are evacuated.

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The PMO stated that the prime minister's instructions were given following a conversation that took place between Yoav Horowitz, Netanyahu's chief of staff, and a delegation of Ofra residents.

Ofra (Photo: Moshe Cohen)

The PMO added that Netanyahu promised to the settlement's residents to promote zoning approval for the town.

On Wednesday, the homeowners whose houses are to be demolished filed a petition to the High Court , which had previously ruled that the demolition was to take place by February 8. The residents asked the court to postpone the date by three months.

Ofra (Photo: Moshe Cohen)

The residents claimed that the houses they are supposed to move into won't be ready on time. The appeal stated, "Ever since the demolition order, the residents didn't stand idly by, and began pushing toward the implementation of the verdict; they reviewed proper alternatives for relocation, and eventually decided to purchase new structures for their families in Ofra. The process of completing the construction of the new houses has been delayed and it is still in progress. They will be completed in three months at the latest."

PM's Chief of Staff, Yoav Horowitz (Phoo: Tal Shahar)

About two weeks ago, Ofra residents came to the Knesset to try to prevent the planned move. In a letter they distributed in the hallways of the parliament, they stated, "We demand changing the land's status once and for all. The helplessness and inaction of the government and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will not make us yield in the face of the Israeli government's move to demolish houses in Ofra."

Ofra residents have threatened that they will go on a hunger strike at the beginning of next week in front of government buildings. In addition, the efforts of the Amona residents to find a proper solution after the agreement they signed is on the brink of failure is still ongoing.
On the 20th of this month, the telephone rang in the home of Education Minister and Bayit Yehudi Leader Naftali Bennett. On the line was Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He had called to ask Bennett not to put up the Annexation Bill for a vote in the cabinet meeting on Sunday. Bennett didn't give up easily. As long as there was no substantial political debate on Israeli policies on those matters, he made clear to Netanyahu, everyone would just do what they wanted to.

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That may be the reason that the Security Cabinet meeting was dedicated to the political subject, which is a very rare occurrence. The ministers on the Security Cabinet discussed the line that the country should take with the Trump administration.

One of the ministers said last week that at that meeting's conclusion, it was unclear what Netanyahu's position was on annexation in general and on annexing Ma'ale Adumim in particular. After three hours of discussion, a further meeting was promised.

Minister Bennett and PM Netanyahu (Photos: Alex Kolmoisky & Yair Sagi)

In any case, Bennett's forcing the prime minister's hand didn't contribute to the health of their relationship. Netanyahu, who wants to win right-wing votes, replied in his way when he announced massive construction in settlement blocs arround Jerusalem This showed the settlers who really cares for them and who's making empty promises, as is the case in Amona.

Another minister said that even though the Security Cabinet is called the "Political-Security Cabinet" in Hebrew, political discussions are rare. "When it comes to political matters, Netanyahu keeps his cards very, very close to the chest. He doesn't share with anyone and doesn't take anyone into consideration," said a senior Likud minister.

For example, the day before Trump's inauguration, Bennett proposed that Israel take a series of significant steps, such as annexing Ma'ale Adumim. A minister from the Security Cabinet who supports Bennett's position said that the Bayit Yehudi leader "told us that the timing was excellent, because Obama couldn't do anything at that point, while Trump wouldn't be damaged because it didn't take place during his shift. But Netanyahu refused to hold a discussion, and the timing was missed."

Another minister from the Cabinet said that Netanyahu prefers security discussions where he has the support of the military establishment which causes all the ministers to fall into line. "But the ministers participate in the discussion, and he definitely listens," he said, adding that Netanyahu from time to time brings out military personnel to update the Security Cabinet on matters, such as regarding his conversation with the American president. "But when we ask him to hold a discussion on a political matter, he promises to hold one and doesn't set it. Since he's the one responsible for setting the agenda for Cabinet meetings, nothing can be done."

Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked, who is on the Security Cabinet, commented on the matter openly: "We absolutely want serious political discussions to shape the worldview of the Israeli government and decide, for example, what we want from the Trump administration, not just what they want from us."

The last time that Bennett flexed his muscles , he insisted on receiving military reports before each meeting of the Security Cabinet. Since then, the ministers meet with the head of the National Security Council weekly for a briefing, and intelligence reports are delivered to them before each meeting.
The IDF is about to inaugurate its largest solar project yet when it begins running a solar farm at the Ramon Airbase, which is expected to produce half of the base's electricity.

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This is a drastic increase from the currently low percentage of electricity (about 2%) that the IDF gets from solar energy, which mirrors the national figure.

The Ramon Airbase solar farm (:  ")

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"On lots of bases, we have photovoltaic cells with low output," said Maj. Ofir Samsanov from the Engineering, Infrastructure and Building Department. He heads "Blue Builds Green," the IDF section dedicated to making the military more environmentally friendly. "We understood that lots of our basesand our country as a wholeare in a place where the sun is to our advantage. We understood that we wanted to go bigger to set up a power plant with a huge field."

The Ramon Airbase solar farm (Photo: IDF Spokesperson)

The Ramon Airbase solar farm produces 5 megawatts. Its size is 50 dunams of which 30 dunams contain an active 16,000 solar panels. It was built with budgetary assistance from the USA.

That solar farm is part of an overall plan that the IDF is implementing to vary its power sources. In 2011, the military installed solar panels on the roves of army bases, and by 2011, nearly 20 such systems had been installed throughout the country with the Enlight Renewable Energy company.

The Ramon Airbase solar farm (Photo: IDF Spokesperson)

The head of the environmental protection and infrastructure branch of the Ministry of Defense, Eitan Aram, explained that they are working according to the BOT method: Build-Operate-Transfer. In this framework, Enlight will maintain the infrastructure for about 15 years, and they will split the profits.

The Ramon Airbase solar farm (Photo: IDF Spokesperson)

Thus, the army also benefits from electrical consumption at no extra charge and also receives part of the proceeds from the Israel Electric Corporation for generating electricity. Today, 95% of the electric used by the defense establishment purchases is produced with gas. This project has saved the IDF millions of shekels since 2014.

"Solar energy is the main direction that we're heading in the coming years. There's an intention to invest tens of millions of shekels in this field," Aram explained.
Following criticism aimed at the Likud party for holding a celebratory retreat in Eilat on International Holocaust Remembrance Day on Friday, Culture and Sport Minister Miri Regev claimed that its timing caused even more attention to be drawn to the memorial day.

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Speaking Friday at the "Likudiada"which brings to mind the Hebrew term for the Olympics, "Olympiada"Regev said, "I heard that we were attacked for having an event on a day when International Holocaust Day is marked. International Holocaust Day has never been covered as much as it has this year, thanks to the Likudiada."

Miri Regev in the Knesset earlier this year (Photo:Gil Yohanan)

Former Minister Silvan Shalom, who until recently was a senior figure in Likud, was critical of the timing. He wrote on his Facebook page, "As the person who initiated in the UN the International Holocaust Remembrance Dayall over the world, people commemorate and remember today the victims of the Holocaust at demonstrations, in parliaments, in educational institutions and on the media. So it saddens me that today of all days was chosen to hold the Likudiada events in Eilat. You could have found a different date!"

Former Minister Limor Livnat joined Shalom's position. She tweeted, "With my citizen hat and with my second hat as Chairman of the Foundation for the Benefit of Holocaust Victims in IsraelI condemn the celebrations of part of the Likud leadership on International Holocaust Day. There are no limits."

Regev also said in Eilat, "Todayand you saw thiswe began with a moment of silence. This week in the Knesset, we commemorated International Holocaust Day. There is no minister, member of Knesset or citizen that is not accompanied by the memory of the Holocaust every day. I returned from Miami this week. One of my first visits was to the Holocaust museum there, and I met one of the Holocaust survivors from Cuba. So nobody can tell us how to respect the memory of the Holocaust, the Holocaust survivors. I don't remember our deciding that on this day there wouldn't be events and wouldn't be festivities. So they can stop coming after Likud. There's no more principled party than Likud."

Saturday, Leader of the Opposition Isaac Herzog (Zionist Union) criticized the culture and sport minister's comments directly. He said, "Miri Regev yesterday at the Likudiada turned the International Holocaust day that Israel initiated at the UN to a surreal PR item. A shame and a disgrace. She should resign immediately together with the head of her government."
Former defense minister Moshe Ya'alon has reportedly told police of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's direct involvement in the purchasing of submarines and the tender bias in favor of German conglomerate thyssenKrupp, Channel 2 reported on Saturday night.

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In his testimony last week, Ya'alon told investigators of Netanyahu's efforts in canceling an international tender for the submarines and other naval vessels and altering it in favor of thyssenKrupp, whose representatives in Israel are the prime minister's personal lawyer David Shimron and Shimron's client, businessman Miki Ganor.

Ya'alon reportedly provided investigators with detailed information on the talks Netanyahu had with German government officials both for the purchase of three new submarines and for the purchase of anti-submarine warships for the Israeli Navywithout consulting the defense establishment.

Netanyahu is not currently being investigated in the Submarine Affair (Photo: Reuters)

Ynet was informed that Ya'alon's statement will obligate investigators to carry out a variety of other investigative actions, including gathering evidence from senior figures in the Ministry of Defense and the Navy regarding the manner in which decisions were taken to purchase the vessels.

The Prime Minister's Office said in response: "The prime minister acted with the accompaniment of (defense) professionals and based on (their instructions), and the tender was removed only after the German government gave Israel the discount that defense officials demanded."

Currently, the police are not intending to investigate Netanyahu in the matter, at least not until evidence has been gathered from the others involved and the attorney general has examined it. It will be on him to decide if the prime minister should then be investigated.

This case requires the police to carry out judicial inquiries abroad, principally in Germany, if the attorney general approves upgrading the preliminary investigation to a full-fledged one.

Sources in the police told Ynet that the case is spread over several years and includes tremendous amounts of material. Thus, it would be difficult to investigate it simultaneously with other suspicions currently being probed, adding that reaching the truth of the matter could take a long time.

On Friday, Netanyahu was questioned for the third time concerning suspicions he received illicit gifts from wealthy donors and concerning his alleged efforts to strike a deal with Yedioth Ahronoth publisher Arnon Mozes concerning coverage about him.
Twenty-five years ago, when Israel and China established diplomatic relations, the trade volume between the two countries was $50 million. Today it is over $11 billion, meaning it has increased more than 200 times in the last 25 years.

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There is more and more Chinese investment in Israel, and more Israeli companies are opening offices in China.

Our two economies are highly complementary, which means a great potential of deeper and wider cooperation, Chinese Ambassador to Israel Zhan Yongxin said at an event marking the anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations held at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem. Israel is a nation well known for innovation and advanced technology. China has a huge and open market as well as exceptional manufacturing capabilities. Our cooperation will greatly benefit both countries.

Israeli President Reuven Rivlin (Right) meets with Vice Premier of China, Liu Yandong, at the presidential compound in Jerusalem on March 29, 2016 (Photo: Getty Images)

Officials from both countries are discussing arrangements for a free trade agreement, which will further cement ties. In 2015 the Chinese company Bright Food acquired Tnuva, an iconic Israeli dairy company.

Ambassador Yongxin said that about 80,000 Chinese tourists visited Israel last year, and more are on the way.

There is an increasing interest in coming here as tourists, Orna Naftali, a professor of anthropology in the department of Asian Studies at Hebrew University, told The Media Line. There is now an interest among middle class Chinese who have already been around the world and now have a taste for somewhere thats different. If there is a stereotype it is that Jews and Israelis are very smart and we have a lot to learn from them.

This admiration is especially welcome in Israel which is often criticized in the international community for its policies in the West Bank. As European countries become more critical of Israel, with calls for boycotts of Israeli products manufactured in the West Bank, more Israelis are turning to Asia.

East Asian studies has exploded at Israeli universities. Noam Rose-Weiss and Gal Litani, both students, sang several songs in Chinese at the Hebrew University event. In the middle of their second year of studies, their Chinese is coming along well, and they have plans to visit China this summer.

I started in mechanical engineering but I soon realized it wasnt for me, Litani said. Since I was 12 years old, my father has been telling me I should study Chinese, so I thought Id try it, and I just fell in love with it.

The Chinese government has established a generous scholarship program that funds Israeli students to study in China, and hundreds of Chinese students are currently studying in Israel.

The deeper ties came as China has embarked on a huge program called One Belt, One Road to create a massive new trade corridor by both land and sea between China and Europe. Last year, Chinas state controlled shipping company acquired ownership of Greeces largest port of Piraeus.

Israel could play a role in this project as well, say Israeli businessmen.

If you look at the next few years Israel has the potential for becoming a major trade gateway between Asia and Europe, Roi Feder, the managing director of APCO Worldwide, a global communications consulting company, said. Goods could be transferred between the southern port city of Eilat or Ashdod, and go up north to Haifa. Israel could become a logistics hub for goods being stored here.

Right now Israel does not have the logistics, insurance or financial capabilities to become a major part of the One Belt, One Road. But as China invests more and more in Israel and as ties deepen further, Israel is well-positioned to develop ties with China even further.

Article written by Linda Gradstein
Only one week after the US ambassador to Israel finished his time here, Dan Shapiro criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's tweets.

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Earlier in the day, Netanyahu expressed his support for US President Donald Trump's intention to build a wall along the US-Mexican border. The former ambassador to Israel responded, "Their solution (a fence, not a wall) works for them, would not work for us."

Shapiro (L) and Netanyahu (Photo: Amos Ben Gershom, GPO)

The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) is worried of a potential crisis in Israeli-Mexican relations following Netanyahu's tweet and published a clarification.

When Shabbat ended, the prime minister tweeted, "President Trump is right. I built a wall along Israel's southern border. It stopped all illegal immigration. Great success. Great idea." He ended the tweet with Israel and American flag emojis. Netanyahu's tweet was based on the government's decision to build a fence along the border with Egypt. Trump later retweeted Netanyahu's tweet.

Trump's retweet

Shapiro, who has remained in Israel, is no longer bound by diplomatic protocol. He attacked Netanyahu's position on the controversial American wall proposal via Twitter.

Fence along Egyptian border (Photo: Meir Ohayon)

"Israels challenges with Sinai border not similar to US border," he wrote. "Hard to explain this intervention on a hotly debated issue in domestic US politics. Unless this endorsement is Trumps demand of Netanyahu for something Netanyahu wants, the quid pro quo. But for what? Canceling the Iran deal? Moving the US Embassy to Jerusalem? Supporting building in settlement blocs? To me, it looks like Trump is already squeezing Netanyahu hard. 'The Art of the Deal.'"

A spokesman for the MFA, Emmanuel Nahshon, also took to Twitter, though his post seemed to seek to put off any potential crisis with Mexico. He wrote that Netanyahu "referred to our specific security experience which we are willing to share. We do not express a position on US- Mexico relations."
A rose to ... emergency preparedness.

Scores of responders either sprang into action or were on standby during the past four days as a major winter storm inched through Hub Territory.

So threatening it was coined Winter Storm Jupiter, the weather carried the threat of rain, drizzle and snow that made traveling hazardous and could have knocked out electrical service.

Residents of Hub Territory who recall the ice storm of 2006 know what a misery cold weather, the loss of electrical service, and the heavy burden to rebuild after such a catastrophe can be.

Perhaps it was the hard-learned lessons of 2006 that prompted such a unified and efficient response to Winter Storm Jupiter. Snow plows were out early spreading anti-icing compound, and the message from emergency managers was uniform and succinct: Stay home, stay safe. Reinforcing that message were school and university officials and business operators who decided they were better off safe, so rather than being sorry they called off classes and kept their businesses locked.

People listened to the warnings. Aside from some crashes early into the storm, the frequency of wrecks diminished markedly as area residents heeded officials warnings and hunkered down for the duration of the threatening weather.

When Tuesday dawned sunny and bright, storm damage was minimal and we could thank our luck that Jupiter landed only a glancing blow. We also could thank ourselves for playing it smart. The rain and ice were bona fide weather hazards, but we wisely prepared, then we counter punched by staying put while the professionals tended to streets and roads and any emergencies while we waited for the danger to pass.

A raspberry to ... Omaha state Sen. Burke Haar, who wants to redesign the Nebraska state flag because 2017 is Nebraskas 150th anniversary as a state. We can understand why Haar wants the redesign to coincide with our statehood anniversary, and we agree that as flag designs go, Nebraskas flag has room for improvement.

However, rushing to accomplish the redesign tempts disaster. For whatever reason, Nebraskans have not had much luck in recent decades with symbolic designs, particularly our license plates.

More important than the likelihood of botching the redesign if we rush it is the fact that Haar and the 48 other lawmakers in the Nebraska Legislature ought to devote their attention to more pressing matters, such as the $1 billion revenue shortfall and the necessity for property tax reform.
MONDAY 1/30

>> Alcoholics Anonymous - Fresh Start Group meets Monday at 12 noon at First Presbyterian Church located at 414 Delaware Ave. in York.

TUESDAY 1/31

>> Sexaholics Anonymous, a 12 Step recovery group for those dealing with addiction to pornography, sex, and other forms of lust, meets Tuesday nights at 5:45 p.m. For more information please call our toll free number 1-877-889-8071 or visit sanebraska.org.

WEDNESDAY 2/1

>> Alcoholics Anonymous - Fresh Start Group meets Wednesday at 12 noon at First Presbyterian Church located at 414 Delaware Ave. in York.

THURSDAY 2/2

>> Weight Watchers meets in the basement of the York Towne House, 5th & Grant Ave., each Thursday. Weigh in 5:15 - 5:45 p.m.; Member meeting 5:45 - 6:15 p.m.

>> AL-ANON meets Thursday at 12 noon at First Presbyterian Church located at 414 Delaware Ave. in York.

>> Narcotics Anonymous meets Thursday at 8 p.m. at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in the Annex building.

FRIDAY 2/3

>> Alcoholics Anonymous - Fresh Start Group meets Friday at 12 noon at First Presbyterian Church located at 414 Delaware Ave. in York.

>> Alcoholics Anonymous - AWOL Group meets Friday at 8 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church located at 414 Delaware Ave. in York.

SATURDAY 2/4

>> Alcoholics Anonymous - Fresh Start Group meets Saturday at 11 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church located at 414 Delaware Ave. in York.

>> A Childbirth Preparation class will be held on Saturday, Feb. 4 at 8 a.m. Contact OB Director Nancy Hengelfelt, RNC, at 402.362.0457 for more information.
You cant be from the great state of Nebraska and not own a red piece of clothing of some kind, can you?

Even though red clothing in our state is often worn to support a local college team, I would like to ask you to put on your red clothing for a different reason on Friday, February 3rd. National Wear Red day is a chance for everyone to help raise awareness about women and heart disease  the #1 killer of women in the U.S. Many events are planned around this day. It is held on the first Friday of February each year. You can play your part by wearing red and joining thousands of Nebraskans in the fight against heart disease.

The month of February is American Heart Month. Heart disease not only affects women, but is also the number one killer of men too. Prevention starts with all of us. Know your risks and take steps now to make small changes that can improve your heart health. Good changes might be: quit smoking, know what your blood pressure is and control it if its high, reduce LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, lessen your alcohol intake, lose extra weight or keep a healthy weight, exercise 30 minutes a day on most days of the week, find ways to manage stress, eat foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, and low in sodium and trans fat, and follow your doctors advice if you are on any medicine.

Some heart attacks are sudden and strong but most heart attacks start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Often people having a heart attack arent sure whats wrong and wait too long before getting help. The best thing to do is to call 9-1-1 right away so an ambulance can be sent for you. As with men, womens most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort. Other symptoms can be shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain. Women can have somewhat different symptoms than men too. Sometimes they only have stomach discomfort and think it may be a bout of indigestion.

This coming National Wear Red day marks fifteen years since the first Wear Red day was started. Great strides in the efforts to raise awareness of heart disease have been made over these years.

 Nearly 90% of women have made at least one healthy behavior change

 More than one-third of women have lost weight

 More than 50% of women exercise more

 6 out of 10 women have changed types of foods they eat

 More than 40% of women have had their cholesterol levels checked

 One-third of women have talked with their doctor about heart-health plans

 Today, nearly 300 less women die from heart disease and stroke

 Death in women has decreased more than 30 percent over the past ten years

Be aware! Learn the signs, but remember that even if youre not sure if its a heart attack, have it checked out by a doctor anyway. Minutes matter! Fast action can save lives  maybe your own or someone you love.

For more information on heart disease, contact Four Corners Health Department @ 877-337-3573 or locally @ 402-362-2621. You can also visit their website @ www.fourcorners.ne.gov.
NORFOLK  A natural resources district has approved a multiagency agreement to stabilize a bank of the Elkhorn River near Norfolk, where a man died when a railroad bridge collapsed during flooding in 2010.

The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District board voted 12-1 for the agreement Thursday night at its meeting in Norfolk. Norfolk and Madison counties, as part of the county transportation safety district, have already approved the deal. Several companies will benefit, including Nucor, Vulcraft and the Nebraska Central Railroad.

Officials have said the river changed course as a result of the flood, and they fear the bridge could wash out again in another deluge. The bridge sits about a half-mile southwest of Norfolk.

The railroad is definitely a lifeline. Its our only rail coming into the community, said Norfolk City Administrator Shane Weidner. If that rail goes down its crippling for our community, absolutely crippling.

The companies will pay a third of the estimated $750,000 project cost in the public/private partnership.

Plans call for smoothing the rivers path by gently working with Mother Nature to bring that alignment in, Weidner said Friday. Its unclear so far how long a stretch of the south bank will require the work.

Its hoped the project will be finished by years end, he said.

Three Nebraska Central Railroad workers were dumped in the swollen river in June 2010 when the bridge collapsed as they checked it for safety. Two of the workers were pulled out of the river alive. The body of Jeff Scholl was found several days later.
Readers ask about snow removal, public works, pipeline

The following questions were asked recently on the Wonderline:

Q: What is the city ordinance, in York, regarding sidewalk snow removal and is it enforced?

A: Section 34-40 of the municipal code says that the owners and occupants of all properties in the City of York have to clear the snow from the sidewalks in front of their lots and properties. Failure to do so can result in a misdemeanor citation.

If there is a continued problem with snow not being removed from sidewalks, the owners/occupants are contacted.

If someone has a complaint, they should contact the police department.

Q: How many people work in public works for the city?

A: The York Department of Works employs 29 permanent employees and as many as 10 temporary employees in the summer months, so nearly 40 people work for the public works department throughout the year. This includes personnel in the street, parks, landfill, wastewater, water, airport and building inspection departments.

Q: Has there ever been a president that did not give a State of the Union address?

A: Yes. Presidents Zachary Taylor, William Henry Harrison and James Garfield did not present State of the Union addresses.

Q: So, now, the Keystone XL pipeline situation is back in the public eye. I realize that the presidents signature this week doesnt automatically make the pipeline happen. My question is how many years has this been going on, this debate over the KXL? It seems like all these important allowances and denials have taken place over the years, yet it is still here.

A: The issue of the Keystone XL pipeline has been around since 2008. Here are some notable events in the life of this issue:

March 2008  The U.S. State Department issues a presidential permit for a $5.2 billion Keystone pipeline to transport crude oil.

September 2008  TransCanada files paperwork to expand the existing Keystone pipeline with a new Keystone XL route. The pipeline would extend from Canadas tar sands through Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska, where it would connect with the existing Keystone pipeline route to carry more than 800,000 barrels of crude oil a day to specialized refineries along the Texas Gulf Coast.

The original Keystone pipeline route runs through North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas. Because the Keystone XL would cross the U.S. border, the State Department must determine whether the project is in the national interest.

June 2010  First Keystone pipeline goes into operation.

August 2011  Then-Nebraska Gov. Dave Heineman sends a letter to President Barack Obama asking that the proposed Keystone XL pipeline avoid the Sandhills, an area consisting of fragile, grass-covered sand dunes in western Nebraska.

Aug. 26, 2011  The U.S. State Department issues its final environmental impact statement determining there would be no significant impacts to most resources along the proposed project corridor.

Oct. 15, 2010  As the permit is reviewed, then-Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton says the department is inclined to approve project. The project begins to galvanize the environmental movement to pressure the Obama administration to act on climate change. Republicans and other project supporters argue the project will create jobs and help the economy.

November 2011  Amid growing public resistance to the Keystone XL, Heineman calls lawmakers into a special session to address environmental concerns in Nebraska. Lawmakers approve a pipeline siting law that requires companies to apply through an independent state commission. Obama announces a delay, pushing off the decision until after his re-election campaign. His administration says other potential routes through Nebraska need to be studied.

Dec. 23, 2011  Congress tries to force Obamas hand by passing legislation requiring approval of the Keystone XL pipeline within 60 days unless the president determines the project does not serve the national interest. Weeks later, Obama rejected the application but allowed TransCanada to re-apply.

April 2012  Nebraska lawmakers rewrite the pipeline law to give the governor the power to approve the Keystone XL route through the state.

May 4, 2012  TransCanada reapplies and restarts the federal review process.

March 1, 2013  The State Department issues an environmental review that raises no major objections to the Keystone XL oil pipeline and says other options to get oil from Canada to Gulf Coast refineries are worse for climate change.

June 25, 2013  Obama declares he will only approve the project if it doesnt worsen carbon pollution. Our national interest would be served only if this project does not significantly exacerbate the problem of carbon pollution, Obama says in a speech declaring that fighting climate change will be a major priority his second term.

Jan. 31, 2014  The State Department releases another final environmental impact statement, again voicing no major environmental objections to the project.

Feb. 19, 2014  A Nebraska judge overturns the state law that allowed the pipeline, throwing the project into legal limbo.

April 18, 2014  The State Department announces it is again delaying its review, citing the legal dispute over the Nebraska route.

January 2015  TransCanada files legal papers in nine Nebraska counties (including York County) to invoke eminent domain for the land thats needed to construct, operate and maintain the pipeline.

Feb. 11, 2015  Congress again tries to push the Obama administration to decide on the permit by passing legislation forcing the decision and sending it to the White House. Obama vetoes the bill days later.

Sept. 22, 2015  Clinton, now seeking the Democratic nomination for president, says she opposes construction of the Keystone pipeline.

Nov. 2, 2015  As it appears increasingly likely that Obama will reject the pipeline, TransCanada asks the administration to suspend the companys application. The State Department reviews the request for a day, and then rejects it.

Nov. 6, 2015  Obama announces he is rejecting the permit to build the Keystone pipeline. The project is not in the national interest, he says. America is now a global leader when it comes to taking serious action to fight climate change. And frankly, approving this project would have undercut that global leadership, he says.

June 2016  TransCanada seeks $15 billion in damages from the federal government in response to the Obama administration rejecting the Keystone XL pipeline.

Jan. 24, 2017  President Donald Trump signs executive actions to advance the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline, along with the four-state Dakota Access oil pipeline.

Q: Can a person vote, ever again, if they have been convicted of a felony? Lets say if they were convicted as many as 10 or 15 years or so ago.

A: Individuals convicted of a felony are ineligible to vote while incarcerated, on parole, or on probation. Voting rights are restored two years after the completion of all supervised release (except if convicted of treason). Ex-offenders should re-register to vote.

Q: Was a notice for this weeks special meeting of the city council published?

A: Yes, a legal was published in the Saturday edition of the York News-Times, announcing the special meeting.

Q: How can a person send a letter to the president?

A: We have looked and the best bet to send correspondence to the White House is at www.whitehouse.gov/contact.

Q: Who puts on the Meltdown basketball tournament?

A: This is sponsored by York Dukes softball as a fundraiser.

Q: I see that now and again you guys get questions about old fashioned recipes that typically have been published in traditional church cookbooks. Hoping you still have access to some of those old church treasures, I was wondering if you could look up a recipe for me that I remember some ladies would make back in the day. It was a pistachio recipe that was like a pudding dessert. You look in todays new cookbooks and they just dont include food like that. Could you see if you can find what Im looking for? The dessert had kind of a nutty crust.

A: We found this recipe in two different church cookbooks and they were so similar we are assuming this is pretty close to what the reader is looking for.

First, mix together  cup melted butter,  cup chopped pecans and one cup of flour. Thats your crust. Press it into a 9x13 pan. And then bake that at 350 degrees for 14 minutes. Take it out of the oven and cool it down.

Then, when the crust is completely cooled, make your filling.

You will cream together eight ounces of cream cheese, one cup of powdered sugar and one cup of Cool Whip. Take this mixture and spread it over the crust  again, make sure that crust is cooled first.

Then make pistachio pudding  with two 3-ounce packages of pistachio pudding mix and two cups of milk.

Spread the pudding over the other layer.

Then top that with one cup of Cool Whip. Sprinkle the top with  cup of chopped pecans.

Refrigerate at least four hours before serving because that will help it to set.

It should be noted that one of the church cookbooks that this recipe came from is a family cookbook that has been used for many years. The reason this is mentioned is that the page where this recipe was located was very worn and stained from cooking spills . . . which is a very good indication that this has been a very popular recipe.

Q: What is Jon Bruning doing these days?

A: The former Nebraska attorney general is the founder and managing partner of the Bruning Law Group in Lincoln.

Q: Once a month or so, I get this really strong craving for lemon  anything with a lemon flavor. The older I get, the more this happens and the more intense this strange craving becomes. Why on earth would I suddenly crave the flavor of lemons?

A: We looked up several nutritional websites about this one. The common thread of information is that if someone is craving lemon or lime or vinegary foods, they could be low in stomach acid. When stomach acid isnt adequate, the sites said, it could start a cascade of digestive dysfunction leading to discomfort, constipation and more.

We also found where some nutritionists say citrus cravings are sometimes a way the body is responding to hormonal changes  which could be why the craving gets more so as this person gets older.

And maybe the person is in need of more Vitamin C.

So in other words, go ahead and indulge the lemon craving. But keep in mind that natural lemon and citrus is what the body wants, so dont just have a piece of lemon drop candy, for example. Give your body the real thing.

Q: Where is the burial location of John Kennedy Jr.?

A: The body of John Kennedy Jr., as well as those of his wife and sister-in-law, was cremated and their ashes were distributed about 4  miles south of the Marthas Vineyard community of Gay Head. This was in the vicinity of where their airplane crashed, which was about seven miles off the Massachusetts island.
AF Reserve breaks ground on new Robins facility Feb. 2

Headquarters Air Force Reserve Command will break ground on the first phase of a new consolidated mission complex here Feb. 2 at 2 p.m.



The complex is being constructed off Robins Parkway, just south of Martin Luther King Jr., Boulevard.



Lt. Gen. Maryanne Miller, AFRC commander, is slated to break ground with Col. Jeffrey King, 78th Air Base Wing commander, Warner Robins Mayor Randy Toms and Houston County Commission Chairman Tommy Stalnaker.



"This complex will bring us together so we can serve our Citizen Airmen more effectively," Miller said. "It's a win-win for the Air Force Reserve Command, our Airmen and our gracious host, Robins Air Force Base."



The overall mission complex project will be divided into three phases. Phase I involves the construction of a 92,000-square-foot, two-story administrative facility at a cost of $27.7 million. Construction is scheduled to be completed in 2019.



Once all phases are completed, the new complex will allow HQ AFRC to consolidate approximately 965 employees into one area. This initiative will consolidate mission capabilities into a campus setting while freeing facility space for the host wing to accommodate their mission needs and saving an estimated $34.2 million in military construction costs for Robins AFB.



(NOTE: A media availability with Miller will follow the groundbreaking ceremony. Media should contact Jaimi Upthegrove, (jaimi.upthegrove.4@us.af.mil), 478-327-1758, by 4:30 p.m., Jan. 31, to arrange base access.
LIVE-2 Inning |05-9

SRI LANKA VS ENGLAND

SL 141/8 VS 77/1 ENG

England need 65 runs in 70 balls at 5.57 rpo
We must always remember that truth is what actually happens in the world. Democracy is dependent upon truth and, as engaged citizens, we must be ever vigilant to the words spoken by our elected officials and their representatives. Three examples illustrate the changeable nature of truth according to Donald Trump.

On Saturday Donald Trump visited the CIA and said that the dishonest media had "made it sound like I had a feud with the CIA, yet weeks of media coverage clearly show words coming out of Donald Trumps mouth that were critical of the CIA, FBI, and NSA. Trumps own tweets vilified the intelligence agencies, referring to them collectively as Nazis.

Video clearly shows Donald Trump mocking a journalist with a disability; he denies ever doing it.

After his intelligence briefing regarding Russian interference with the 2016 election, Trump stated that it concluded, There was absolutely no effect on the outcome of the election. However, the report actually said, we did not make an assessment of the impact that Russian activities had on the outcome of the 2016 election.

Trumps distortions of the truth matter because democracy relies on truth and on trust between citizens and elected officials. Dishonesty of elected officials poses great dangers, such as undermining confidence in government or journalistic sources of information, as is the case in Russia, or complete adherence to truth-according-to-government as in North Korea. As engaged citizens, we must defend democracy by speaking the truth and calling out lies.

Julie Torquati, Lincoln
craigslist: thailand jobs, apartments, for sale, services, community, and events

craigslist provides local classifieds and forums for jobs, housing, for sale, services, local community, and events
I participated in last Saturdays Womens March in Lincoln ("Thousands march to stand for rights," Jan. 22). It was amazing to exercise my First Amendment right alongside thousands of other people of all ages, colors, religions, sexual orientation and economic status.

To those who recommend taking a wait and see approach to the new administration, I ask, "Are you kidding?" Already both Congress and the president have taken steps to strip away the Affordable Care Act without having another plan in place. This is not a family-friendly move. It is an immoral move.

Before the ACA came to be, I attended the funeral of the brother of a friend. His eulogy described him as a devote Christian and a loving family man. It was a needless death; if he had seen a doctor early on, he would alive, but he did not seek medical treatment until it was too late because he did not have health insurance. He had a job, but he could not afford insurance. Millions could lose their health insurance as provided by the ACA.

Those of us with health insurance from our employers are in danger of having our insurance polices watered down and needed services denied with the stripping down and probable loss of ACA and no adequate replacement. I know this already happens as I have family and friends being denied medical services and forced to needlessly suffer. We either need improvements to the ACA or a better plan. My better plan is we all have the same health care plan as members of Congress and the president.

Rachel M. Garver, Lincoln
I am by nature an optimist. The glass is half full not half empty. The election of Donald Trump has severely dimmed my optimism. He vowed to "drain the swamp in Washington". It feels more like he is draining my half full glass.

His cabinet nominees are enough to make a sane person cringe. Rick Perry to head a department which he thought should be eliminated? Betsy DeVos, who wants to privatize public schools, as the secretary of education? Half a dozen Goldman-Sachs alums to cabinet posts or as close advisors? Already under attack are the Affordable Care Act, Planned Parenthood, Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. Programs which help people are vilified but the border wall is apparently still a priority.

Trump got elected but playing to our worst instincts and by dividing the country along racial, gender and ethnic lines. He won but it remains to be seen who the ultimate losers will be. It is difficult to see how the country can be unified behind such a polarizing individual. Keep in mind that a majority of voters did not vote for him. His ego will not let him acknowledge that he lost the popular vote.

Earl Flittner, Waverly
LIVE-2 Inning |05-9

SRI LANKA VS ENGLAND

SL 141/8 VS 82/2 ENG

England need 60 runs in 65 balls at 5.53 rpo
There was a time, when there were a few good men. Who stood for all that was ethical, for whom integrity meant something. Who could take up the gauntlet even against the most commanding seats of power. For whom India always came first. <br><br> Nani Ardeshir Palkhivala was one such man. Consumed completely with his dogged determination to preserve the secularity, freedom and democracy of this country, he went to the extremities in his fight. <br><br> <b>Knight in Shining Armour</b> <br><br> In the historic Keshavnand Bharti case, it was because of Palkhivalas tireless arguments over a period of five long months that the Supreme Court bench ruled that while Parliament could amend the Constitution, it could not tamper with its basic structure; thus securing the edifice of nation building for posterity. <br><br> However Indira Gandhi, who showed scant regard for the law of the land during Emergency days, reversed the decision. It was then that Nani Palkhivala gave us a glimpse of his towering personality. <br><br> On being peremptorily asked by Indira Gandhi in 1975 to plead her appeal before the Supreme Court, against the Allahabad High Court decision which invalidated her 1971 election to the Lok Sabha, Palkhivala simply returned her brief expressing his inability to take up the case. He risked taking on the might of Indira Gandhi, but did not compromise on his values. <br><br> Well aware of the dangers in showing such temerity, he never wavered for a moment. It was a matter of Country Vs appeasing the the Prime Minister. His choice was made. <br><br> Livid at such open show of defiance, Indira Gandhi did everything possible to make his life hell. It is to the credit of JRD Tata, who refused to sack Palkhivala either as a Director on the Tata board or as the ACC Chairman despite immense pressure from Mrs G. Lesser men would have succumbed. <br><br> <b>Gloomy Gloaming </b> <br><br> But in his twilight years, when Zee News interviewed him about the state of the nation, we found him depressed beyond measure. On being asked what was wrong with the country, he quipped, What is wrong with it...I will like to ask what is right with it? We apply the most idiotic criteria to choose our leaders - caste, religion, region - nothing that is worth is looked at to check whether the person is worthy of public life. <br><br> I must admit we are not trained to be electorate. The adult franchise was introduced too early, without us being trained to be good citizens. It was a terrible mistake. I am absolutely ashamed. I never thought Indian democracy would be like this, he bemoaned. <br><br> We are unworthy of being citizens of this countrythe man who speaks the truth is not even listened to here. Unless great men, intelligent men come into public life, I see no hope for us. <br><br> The ray of hope, though, came to him from the Judiciary. Judicial activism is the only good thing, he said but not without counter reasoning, Ideally this should not happen. Judiciary should not take the place of the legislature or the executive, but I am glad it does. <br><br> As a Constitutional lawyer, to him it was the greatest tome, The Indian Constitution is the only imaginative piece of work, he declared. <br><br> But people dont even know what is in our Constitution. In the Unites States, though, they have a much smaller book, they are taught the Constitution in schools. Portions of it are published in public places like railway stations. Forget knowing its contents, people in India have not even heard of it! It is a different matter that so many people dont know how to read or write in the first place. <br><br> About the great dangers looming over the country, this great advocate of equality felt casteism is our greatest curse. He minced no words in holding VP Singh responsible for dividing the country on caste lines. <br><br> But if there was that one person who was permanently consigned to his bad books, it was undoubtedly Indira Gandhi. She did more damage to the country than anyone else. I am amazed at the liberties she took. Had she had her way, she would have destroyed the liberty that we have, but for the fight of some of us, he said without the slightest ego. <br><br> <b>A Lost Cause</b> <br><br> Nani Palkhivala felt the nation had reached a cul-de-sac and was struggling to find a way. <br><br> On what could be the possible solution out, he suggested the unthinkable, the unspeakable- a limited form of dictatorship. For a man who fought tooth and nail for freedom and fundamental rights, Palkhivala decried that, Indians mistake freedom for license. They think they have a license to do what they like just because they are citizens of a free country. <br><br> He then turned to Singapore for example. Perhaps our people do, after all, need some shepherding, he grudgingly admitted. We are waiting for a person like Lee Kuan Yew. <br><br> Well aware of the import of what he was alluding to, he hurried to add, I speak with a full sense of responsibility. We have reached that stage of degradation where we need more discipline and less of freedom. How can we just get up and declare a bandh. In Europe such freedom in not known. Only in India people feel they have a right to do what they like. <br><br> On nationhood, something so close to his heart, he demystified the reason for our regional fixations. We have been a loose knit of regions, never once had we been one nation. We have no notion of what it is to be an Indian; we are not even aware what our identity is. We havent told the people that we are one country. <br><br> I dont know what sins I have done to be born in this country, to see all this. People of this country are basically good left to themselves. They are large hearted people. We have a culture that can make a man a fine human being <br><br> For India per se there would always be sweet words, No other country has such a variety of languages, with different roots. Europe has 5-6 languages, but they have common roots in Greek or Latin. Our diversity is a great contribution to civilization. <br><br> Have you heard of such a great country? Where there have been great sages like Yajnavalika. Have you heard of any country where kings have left their kingdoms in search of truth? <br><br> We are a tremendously great country. But I dont recognize this to be the same country, he repined as a man vanquished. <br><br> After this his voice evanesced into a quiver. Tears welled in his eyes. And then, he just broke down. <br><br> When he continued, he related with a choking throat, the indispensable role of his parents. I have been lucky in my parents. My father taught me the right thing to do, gave me the right values. <br><br> It is so important to give children the right bringing up and a good education. Because this decides what the child would turn out to be when he grows up. At that point the crew left him soaked in his thoughts. <br><br> <b>Our Inspiration </b> <br><br> <IMG SRC="/image/nani_palkiivala.jpg" vspace=4 hspace=4 border=0 align="left"><br> My Editor, who had conducted the interview, asked me to make something marvelous out of it. After all, the ingredients were all in place. I scanned through the interview to see how we needed to present it. <br><br> Nani Palkhivala was my hero. One of my idols in my growing up years; and will remain so till the end of my days. This man was now crumbling before my eyes. <br><br> When our icons crash, when they seem so vulnerable, so human - like any amongst us, no words can express the pathos of the moment- of utter despondency and of unfathomable darkness. <br><br> His gargantuan personality seemed crippled by hopelessness. The man, whose courage had humbled despotism, was now broken in spirit. <br><br> Everything he stood for seemed consigned to flames, turned to ashes. He looked like an emperor who had just lost a battle, seen the work of his lifetime defeated, and ground to earth. <br><br> Somberly, I began to stitch together pieces of the programme together. Palkhivalas staff was both polite and extremely helpful in putting together the documentary. They threw open their archives for my access. I received old pictures of happier times, of daunting days, of momentous moments, of, of. <br><br> I also heard some of the recordings of his most spectacular speeches. I watched stadiums jam packed by corporate honchos, bureaucrats, socialites and thousands and thousands of common men (some delicately balancing on tree branches or craning over from terraces because of lack of space) to hear him unravel the mathematics of the Union Budget, as part of an annual ritual. The magic was the ease with which he could convert extremely convoluted jargon into elementary lingo, giving alongside his own incisive insights. So each year after the Budget presentation in Parliament, the Finance Minister would await the verdict from Mumbai with great trepidation. <br><br> After the documentary unfolded, we received a handwritten note from Mr Palkhivala expressing his heartfelt thanks for our effort. Such was his graciousness. <br><br> My Editor was overjoyed by the response the programme received overall. The interview got wide coverage in media and became a big TRP grosser. Compliments came thick and fast about the stirring story that we had woven. <br><br> Despite so much commendation, my spirits would not lift. That night I learnt a very valuable lesson that some successes in life are just not worth it. <br><br> A devoted teacher, a convincing author, an ace economist, a corporate chairman, but above all a brilliant lawyer and one of the greatest champions of constitutional rights, Palkhivala was all this and much more rolled into one. Yet the man remained humble and courteous to all, including the lowest strata. He was a rare breed who, though an ocean of sapience, carried their erudition lightly. His philanthropy was legendary, yet wrapped in thick of layers of secrecy. <br><br> This great man had raised the torch for us when our country was fighting the shadows. Today when India is taking huge strides in economic development, attaining literacy and its people are increasingly putting development on the agenda for voting, would his agony have eased a little? <br><br> On the converse, when we sometimes get lost in narrow alleys of caste, creed and religion, I wonder does it not then become binding on all of us to pull back and stay on course to become a good citizenry. <br><br> If not just for ourselves, then for the sake of some such good men <br><br> <i>(January 16 is the 89th birth anniversary of Nani Palkhivala)</i>
After reading the article "Nebraskans Speak" (Jan. 20), I was bothered by misinformation some people have about government. There was talk about balancing the budget, ending regulations on small business and farming, the farm economy, morals and values and health care. How can we balance the budget, or reduce the size of government without ending programs that are beneficial to you?

One way the government helps the farm economy is through farm subsidies, basically welfare for farmers. So, what if reduce the size of government by terminating all farm subsidy programs? As for morals and values, well, its not the governments responsibility to enact laws based on your beliefs. I cant help but believe what youre really talking about is those laws like which bathroom someone chooses to use based on their gender identity. The job of government is to protect people, all people, not just a select group with certain beliefs. The role of government is not to be your god.

So, if want a smaller government with a balanced budget, lets start by eliminating the Affordable Care Act, Social Security and farm subsidies. How does that sit with you, my fellow Nebraskans? The role of government is to do those things you are unable or unwilling to do on your own.

Paul Morrison, Lincoln
Scottsbluff and Scotts Bluff County have prospered through a parade of peoples and events from the Cheyenne and Sioux to the Great Platte River Road with its Oregon Trail and Pony Express, to the fur traders, railroads, ranchers, irrigation and canals, which led to farming and sugar beet refining, to a brush with the discovery of oil.

All of those things had a great impact, but the most-lasting event centered around irrigation and the development of sugar beet raising and refining.

Without a minimum population, a county cannot be established, but the double-pronged arrival of the railroad and irrigation in the 1880s proved just the right combination. In the decade, the Union Pacifics townsite company arrived at the settlement which proposed itself to be Gardner on the opposite side of the railroad from the later settlement of Scottsbluff. But when the U. S. Post Office refused the name as being too easily confused with an existing post office, it became Gering, named for local banker Martin Gering.

Small scale irrigation came into being which led to the formation of the Farmers Canal Company, then the Minatare Canal & Irrigation Company and, after others, the Tri-State Land Companys canal which was partially funded by Lincolnite W.H. Ferguson.

In 1888, Scotts Bluff County was calved from Cheyenne County, and the following year the Nebraska-Wyoming & Western Railroad, a branch of the Burlington & Missouri River Railroad, surveyed a route leading to Wyoming through the area. While Scottsbluffs original Emery Hotel opened in 1890, the Oxnard sugar beet refinery went into production in Grand Island with the Standard Beet Company opening in 1899.

The beginning of the 20th century saw the Gering Drain/Mitchell & Gering Ditch bring irrigation to the area while the Lincoln Land Co. division of the Burlington Railroad platted the 15-square block, 40-acre village of Scottsbluff on land acquired principally from Elizabeth McClenahan.

With the establishment of rail service, a few buildings and homes were moved to Scottsbluff from Gering. As local farmers began shipping beets to Ames in increasing volume, the Scottsbluff Chamber of Commerce began promoting the idea of establishing a local refinery and in 1908 the Great Western Sugar Co. was solicited but responded they had no interest. Still, the following year, Great Western reversed its position and solicited the purchase of local beets offering $5 per ton. It began investigating a site for a potential factory.

A portion of the Will Kline farm was then obtained at $150 an acre and with other purchases yielded a tract of over a full section. When the Ames facility fell into receivership, Great Western purchased the machinery and moved it to Scottsbluff. Although only a small part of the Ames factory proved useable, the Scottsbluff plant was completed in 1910.

With the operation of the sugar refinery, Scottsbluff blossomed with the 1910 census showing a population of 1,746 and an infusion of a number of small businesses followed.

As additional farm acres were devoted to sugar beets, a refinery was built at Gering on the Union Pacific tracks in 1916 followed in 1917 by a plant at Bayard. Then one at Mitchell formed in 1920 from equipment moved from Missoula, Montana, and another factory was added at Lyman in 1927.

With the new refineries immigrant workers from Japanese-Americans, Mexican-Americans and Germans from Russia moved to the area. To house the influx, the sugar companies built brick dormitories including one at 14th Avenue and Overland Drive in Scottsbluff for seasonal workers as well as single-family houses, duplexes and triplexes.

In 1974-75 Great Western sold to the Hunt brothers of Dallas, Texas, who, in a later bankruptcy proceeding, sold to the British firm of Tate & Lyle/North American Sugar Co. a decade later.

After 15 years of exploration, the Ohio Oil Company began production in Nebraskas panhandle in 1949. Although there is anecdotal evidence of petroleum refiners in Richardson County and Omaha, a University of Nebraska publication says Nebraska has had [only] one crude oil refinery, the Co-operative Refinery at Scottsbluff, which refined 3,000 barrels of crude oil per day until 1982, when it closed. Terry Carpenter, the refinerys owner, sold the facility to the Consumers Refinery Association of Kansas City who subsequently sold it to Farmland Industries which later closed it.

Scottsbluff also had the dream of creating a college patterned after Parsons College of Fairfield, Iowa. It created the briefly successful Hiram Scott College, which gave its campus to be used by the Western Nebraska Veterans Home, the University of Nebraska and state offices as well as Western Nebraska Community College.

Today Scottsbluffs population of 15,000, in combination with adjacent Terrytown and Gering, makes it the seventh largest urban areas in the state. Many of the sugar company dormitories and housing units survive and thousands of tourists annually visit the 3,240-acre Scotts Bluff National Monument and Oregon Trail Museum as well as the Riverside Discovery Center/Zoo.

Almost no one, however, can truly explain the spelling varieties manifested in the Scotts Bluffs Pony Express Station, the city of Scottsbluff and Scotts Bluff County.
YEREVAN, JANUARY 25, ARMENPRESS. On January 23, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee approved President Donald Trumps Secretary of State nomination of Rex Tillerson by a party line vote of 11 to 10, clearing the path for approval by the full Senate, the news blog of the Armenian Assembly of America reports.

Rex Tillerson said the establishment of peaceful and stable relations between Armenia and Turkey is in the interests of the US.

In response to a question by New Jerseys senior Senator, Bob Menendez, Rex Tillerson said: The tragic atrocities of 1915 remain a painful issue in the relationship between Armenia and Turkey, and it is in the U.S. interest to ensure peaceful and stable relations between the two countries. If confirmed, I will support a full accounting of the historical events and an open dialogue between Armenia and Turkey in the interest of regional stability.

As for the violations of fundamental freedoms in Turkey, the new Secretary of State said he is concerned about the actions taken by the Turkish government. Religious freedom is a core American principle and an important aspect of international peace and stability. If confirmed, I will work with Turkey to safeguard religious minorities and promote respect for their cultural heritages, Tillerson said.

President Trumps U.S. Representative to the United Nations nominee Nikki Haley responded to Senator Menendezs question about supporting a U.S. declaration calling the Armenian Genocide as such, by stating: I will never shy away from calling out other countries for actions taken in conflict with U.S. values and in violation of human rights and international norms.
YEREVAN, JANUARY 27, ARMENPRESS. Armenias Minister of Economic Development and Investments Suren Karayan on January 27 had a meeting with the Lebanese-Armenian Nazaryan family, press service of the Ministry told Armenpress.

The family plans to establish home textile production (towels, dressing gowns) in Armenia.

The businessmen presented the Minister their further steps. They discussed with the Minister the taxation, customs issues related to the import of raw materials.

Minister Karayan assured them that the state will support them to solve the problems. He expressed hope the company will launch the production soon.

In their turn, the businessmen said they are going to establish and start the production in 2017.
YEREVAN, JANUARY 28, ARMENPRESS. The Republic of Armenia and Armenians around the world celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Armenian Armys establishment on January 28.

On January 28, 1992, the Government adopted the On the Defense Ministry of Armenia historic decision, heralding the formation of the Armenian Army. In May of 1992, the ministry held the first drafting, laying the foundation for the stable tradition of drafting conscription servicemen to the Army.

The establishment of the Armenian Army has gone through several stages. The first stage lasted from February 1988 to May 1992. In this period, providing the safety and security of the populations of Armenia and Nagorno Karabakh was more than urgent, as the Karabakh Movement activated and the Armenian-Azerbaijani relations underwent extreme escalation.

The second stage, June 1992  May 1994, when the Republic of Armenia and the Republic of Nagorno Karabakh were in the crosshairs of the Azerbaijani aggression.

The third stage began since June 1994 and continues to present day. During this period, significant works were carried out in the direction of improving the battle-worthiness of the troops, strengthening discipline, training of officers, Army-public relations etc.

In September of 1990, the special regiment of Yerevan was formed, while five companies were established in Ararat, Goris, Vardenis, Ijevan and Meghri. In 1991, the Government approved the formation of the State Committee of Defense.

Men aged 18-27 are subject to compulsory military service in Armenia for a two year period. Drafting is carried out twice a year  in winters and summers. Since its establishment, the Armenian Armed Forces have collaborated and continue collaborating with international structures.

On May 15, 1992, Armenia became a member of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO).

Military cooperation with Russia has a great role in the international cooperation field of the Armenian Armed Forces. Russia is Armenias strategic partner and the defense cooperation between the states is on a high level.

Cooperation with NATO is also expanding year by year.

The Armenian Armed Forces greatly focus on training and educating highly skilled personnel. With this purpose , the Military aviation college was formed, which later transformed into the Military-Aviation institute, the Defense Ministrys Command College was established  currently the Vazgen Sargsyan Military Institute, and the military-medical faculty of the Yerevan State Medical University.

Graduates of the abovementioned institutions have continued trainings in foreign educational facilities. Namely, more than 1500 officers and cadets have trained and continue training in Russia and Greece.

Armenian peacekeepers have a significant role in the history of the Armenian Armed Forces. Due to the peacekeepers, various countries around the world saw and appreciated the highly skilled and professional Armenian soldiers.

The Armenian army has collaborated in several international missions with the West. On February 12, 2004, Armenia deployed a platoon-sized unit (three squads) to Kosovo as a part of the Greek peacekeeping battalion. The unit, known as the Peacekeeping Forces of Armenia, is headquartered in Camp "REGAS FEREOS" as a part of the Multi-National Task Force East and is tasked with maintaining vehicle check points, providing security for the base but also serves as a quick reaction force and crowd and riot control. In 2008, the KFOR unit was expanded, adding a second platoon plus company staff (bringing Armenia's contingent to about 85 personnel).

Photos by Armenpress

In the autumn of 2004, the Armenian government approved the dispatch of a 46-man contingent from the army consisting of sappers, engineers and doctors under Polish command as part of the Multinational Force in Iraq. On October 6, 2008, due to improving security conditions, the contingent's tour of duty came to an end.

In 2010 Armenian peacekeeping servicemen arrived in Afghanistan in, where, under German command, they are tasked to defend the regional airport in Kunduz. There are currently 126 servicemen in Afghanistan.

In conjunction with its strategic allies, Armenia has sent over 1,500 officers to be trained in Greece and Russia. The Armenian Ministry of Defense also established in 2004 a joint partnership with the Kansas National Guard in order to exchange knowledge and facilitate cooperation in national security and civilian affairs. It also signed a military cooperation plan with Lebanon on November 27, 2015.

Since November 26, 2014, Armenian peacekeepers are deployed in Lebanon, within the Italian contingent.

In 2015, one peacekeeper was dispatched to Mali on a monitoring-peacekeeping mission.
YEREVAN, JANUARY 28, ARMENPRESS. On the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the Armenian Armys establishment, the top leadership of Armenia and Nagorno Karabakh visited the Yerablur pantheon and paid tribute to the fallen soldiers, who gave their lives for the independence of their country.

President of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan, President of Nagorno Karabakh Bako Sahakyan, Catholicos of All Armenians His Holiness Garegin II, Parliament Speaker Galust Sahakyan, Prime Minister Karen Karapetyan and other senior officials visited the pantheon. The officials laid flowers at the graves of Commander Vazgen Sargsyan, Commander Andranik and the memorial for the fallen soldiers of the Nagorno Karabakh War.

January 28 marks the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Armenian Army. On January 28, 1992, the Government adopted a historic decision On the Defense Ministry of Armenia, heralding the formation of the Armenian Army. The first draft took place in May of 1992.

On the occasion of Army Day, an awarding ceremony will be held in the Presidential Palace of Armenia. A concert is scheduled to take place in the evening.

On January 29, Catholicos of All Armenians His Holiness Garegin II will hold a Mass in the Mother See of Holy Etchmiatsin.
YEREVAN, JANUARY 28, ARMENPRESS. Lieutenant Colonel David Ethell of the Royal Marines, Defense Attache of the United Kingdom for Armenia, Georgia and Azerbaijan released a congratulatory message on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the Armenian Armys establishment.

The message reads:

"On the 25th anniversary of the formation of the Army I would like to offer my congratulations and best wishes to Armenia. The UK and Armenia continue to have a comprehensive bi-lateral relationship in which defence is prominent, encouraging cooperation between our countries, sharing of many ideals and improvement through high quality training. Armenian willingness to contribute to international missions is a sign of the country playing its role in the world and highlights the values by which Armenia stands. Congratulations on reaching this milestone."
YEREVAN, JANAURY 28, ARMENPRESS. As previously reported by the Armenian Assembly of America (AAA), the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee approved President Donald Trump's Secretary of State nomination of Rex Tillerson, and is currently awaiting approval by the full Senate.

Senator Edward Markey (D-MA), a strong supporter of U.S.-Armenia relations, asked the Secretary of State nominee a series of questions about America's role in the region. As a Co-Chair of the OSCE Minsk Group, the U.S. plays a critical role in maintaining stability in the South Caucasus through its mediation of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict, the AAA reported.

Tillerson promised: "If confirmed, I will work with the governments of Armenia and Azerbaijan to find a peaceful, long-term solution that allows for stability and prosperity in the region. The first step in this process must be to build trust by ensuring that all agreements between the parties are respected."

Focusing on Armenia's other neighbor, Turkey, Sen. Markey noted that "the United States has spoken clearly about the need for Turkey to lift its more than 20-year blockade of Armenia and establish diplomatic relations with Armenia."

Senator Markey asked the Secretary of State nominee what steps he would take to ensure that Turkey ends its blockade of Armenia. Tillerson responded: "I will support the normalized diplomatic, economic, and civil society relations, between Armenia and Turkey in my ongoing discussions with the two parties. U.S. leadership and re-engagement in the region at large will help build the necessary trust to improve relations between Armenia and Turkey." He also added that he will "ensure protection of religious minorities and their property rights, including the Armenian community in Turkey."

Tillerson assured that he is committed to fostering the relationship between the U.S. and Armenia, including economic opportunities. "It is in the interest of the United States to promote mutually beneficial trade between the United States and Armenia. If confirmed, I will work closely with the U.S. Trade Representative and other relevant parts of the U.S. government to explore the possibilities to expand trade and investment between the United States and Armenia in a way that creates U.S. jobs and economic growth," he continued.

Tillerson also recognized "the tremendous challenges facing Armenia due to the influx of refugees" and plans "to ensure cost-effective assistance to Armenia as part of a broader strategy for handling the Syrian refugee issue and protecting U.S. national security interests."
YEREVAN, JANUARY 28, ARMENPRESS. President Serzh Sargsyan awarded over 200 servicemen and veterans with high state awards on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the Armenian Armys establishment. The soldiers were awarded for bravery, boundless dedication and contribution to the Armenian Armed Forces. In addition to the awards, military ranks were also granted.

A part of the awards were personally bestowed by President Sargsyan in the Presidential Palace during an Army Day event.

Davit Tonoyan, first deputy minister of defense, was awarded the 2nd Degree Order For Service to Fatherland, for significant contribution to ensuring the combat-readiness of the troops and army-building.

Colonel Karen Shakaryan was awarded the Combat Cross second degree order for exceptional bravery during defense of the countrys borders and boundless dedication.

Colonel Daniel Balayan was promoted to the rank of Major-General.

Colonel Samvel Sargsyan, Lt. Colonel Karen Tsatryan, Captain Michael Manushyan and Sergeant Dmitry Madyan were awarded the Valor medal.

Colonel Rafik Hakobyan was awarded the 2nd degree medal For Services to the Fatherland for significant contribution in the combat-readiness of the troops.

January 28 marks the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Armenian Army. On January 28, 1992, the Government adopted a historic decision On the Defense Ministry of Armenia, heralding the formation of the Armenian Army. The first draft took place in May of 1992.
YEREVAN, JANUARY 28, ARMENPRESS. Lawmaker of the ruling party Seyran Saroyan will run by the ranked voting system in case of taking part in the upcoming parliamentary election of Armenia, the MP told reporters in Yerablur pantheon.

Asked whether or not he will participate in the election, Saroyan said he doesnt know yet. It will become clear in a few days. If I take part in the election, then only by the ranked voting system [preferential system].

Asked if he desires to once again assume the MP post, Saroyan said its up to the people.

At the same time the MP refused to comment on questions regarding former defense minister Seyran Ohanyans activities, stressing only he doesnt see Ohanyan as opposition.
YEREVAN, JANUARY 28, ARMENPRESS. On the occasion of the 25th anniversary of Armenian Armys establishment, President of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan awarded over 200 veterans and servicemen with high state awards, orders, medals and military ranks for bravery during military service, selfless courage, boundless dedication and contribution to the combat-readiness of the troops and army building.

The President congratulated the servicemen and veterans on Army Day and on receiving the high state awards, the Presidents Office told ARMENPRESS.

Dear awardees,

I congratulate you on Army Day and on receiving the high state awards and military ranks. We are grateful for the great work you have done, which is called service to the Fatherland. First of all we must commemorate those immortals, whom we award today posthumously. We, with our entire people, stand by the parents who have raised heroes, we extend our words of comfort to these families.

The men fell while defending their families, their relatives and all of us. They fell so Armenia can live, so the dreams of our people become reality. They were immortalized, to continue with all of us the age-old and eternal path of Armenians. I congratulate those who are currently present here and continue the dedicated work of their fallen brothers-in-arms in the Armed Forces.

Be sure, the Fatherland trusts and believes in you.

We are proud of you, you are the admirable sons of our people, the strength and confidence of our people, Serzh Sargsyan said.

The President also delivered a congratulatory speech to the Armenian people on Army Day.

Dear Compatriots,



I congratulate you on the occasion of the Army Day and the 25th anniversary of the creation of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Armenia.



The Armenian Army was created along with the reestablishment of our statehood. However, the formation of the Army started earlier, and it started not from the top but from the bottom, spontaneously, through the instinct of self-defense of the people.



Hideous events, which had taken place in Sumgait, Baku, and other places in Azerbaijan, awaked our historic memory with the blood-chilling pictures of massacres and forced deportations. Formed spontaneously but deeply consciously the voluntary movement and first units of volunteers had become the axis on which the glorious and victorious structure  the Armenian Army would rise.



We, as a nation, had united. Last time, we had been united like this at Sardarapat. The superior resources of the foe did not scare us. On the contrary, that fact made us serious, organized, and focused. Our Army was formed at the battlefield. We were fighting agains the enemy literally inside our own home.



I recall a true story: a man with the arms in hands was fighting the enemy in his own home. He fought and retreated from the doorway to the kitchen, then still fighting he retreated to the living room, then he took back his kitchen and his doorway. This is not an allegory; this is a true story from the heroic battle of Karintak. The war imposed on us, made us all the Army; this is the truth.



On the other hand, we need officers - professional, experienced, and deeply knowledgable of the military science. We have been able to smoothly and effortlessly to intertwine the professional capabilities of the military and the strong battle spirit of the home guard. We were aware that the Fidai movement, even if of a heroic nature, had no prospects. The time had come to create a professional army. Military servicemen all over the Soviet Union answering the call of the Fatherland gathered here and carried out that tremendous task.

Dear Compatriots,



Twenty-five years ago, by the order of Vazgen Sarkissian our Army became a state structure. From that day one, we were fighting in the self-defense war at the state level. From that day on, the new and glorious history of the Armed Froces of the Republic of Armenia is being written. Many of the pages and heroes of that history have already appeared in history books. Moreover, that history has become an indivisible part of our national identity. That history is our self-respect, human and national dignity, the proof of our freedom.



I have stressed on many occasions that no military action, to say nothing of a new war can solve the Artsakh issue. Moreover, a new war will become an additional, thorny component of the issue which is complex enough, but not a solution.



Events of last April proved once again (and I stress once again) to our adversaries that the use of force or threats to use force is a tragic and dead-end road, which means its not a road at all.



Those events had also proved the vital and crucial importance of the safety zone created around Artsakh. We are not going to fight another elongated war in the doorway and kitchen of our own home, we have done it already.



Dear Fellow Citizens,



The blood of our martyrs is the price we have paid for our freedom and our future. Today, the thankful generation is bowing to the memory of our immortals and continues with honor the patriotic work of their grandfathers and fathers.



Todays servicemen and conscripts, now with new structures and new weapons, continue to improve and develop, continue to be the unswerving shield for Armenia and Artsakh. Currently, it would be hard to find a stronger defender and a more ardent proponent of peace that the Armenian Army.



Next twenty-five years will be a period of a new qualitative rise for our Army. Officers, as a special stratum of our national intelligentsia, will have a greater public standing and weight, will have a greater professional, including technological, efficiency. For the conscripts, the military service will truly become a school of life, starting from the military skills and up to civil and psychological readiness.



The 25th anniversary of the creation of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Armenia is a great holiday, a great holiday indeed. I once again congratulate us all and wish courage, indestructible resolve, and peace.



Thank you. 
YEREVAN, JANUARY 28, ARMENPRESS. On the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Armenian Army, the Armenian people shall first commemorate those immortals who gave their lives for defending the countrys borders, President Serzh Sargsyan said in his speech after an awarding ceremony in the Presidential Palace on the occasion of Army Day on January 28.

We, as a nation, stand by the parents who raised these heroes and send to their families the words of compassion and support.



Those boys fell defending their families, their friends and us all. They fell so that Armenia can live, so that aspirations of our people live on and become a reality. They became immortals and together with us will continue the millennia-long and incessant march of the Armenian nation, the President said.

Serzh Sargsyan congratulated the servicemen who were present at the ceremony, who continue the dedicated work of their brothers-in-arms in the Armed Forces.

Be sure that the Fatherland trusts you and believes in you. We are proud of you; you are the worthy sons of our nation, the power and reliance of our people, Serzh Sargsyan said, adding Now, in your presence, I address the people of Armenia with a congratulatory message on the occasional of the Armenian Army Day.

Congratulating the Armenian people on Army Day, the President of Armenia stressed the Armenian Army was created along with the reestablishment of the statehood.

However, the formation of the Army started earlier, and it started not from the top but from the bottom, spontaneously, through the instinct of self-defense of the people.



Hideous events, which had taken place in Sumgait, Baku, and other places in Azerbaijan, awaked our historic memory with the blood-chilling pictures of massacres and forced deportations. Formed spontaneously but deeply consciously the voluntary movement and first units of volunteers had become the axis on which the glorious and victorious structure  the Armenian Army would rise. We, as a nation, had united. Last time, we had been united like this at Sardarapat. The superior resources of the foe did not scare us. On the contrary, that fact made us serious, organized, and focused. Our Army was formed at the battlefield. We were fighting against the enemy literally inside our own home.

I recall a true story: a man with the firearm in hands was fighting the enemy in his own home. He fought and retreated from the doorway to the kitchen, then still fighting he retreated to the living room, then he took back his kitchen and his doorway. This is not an allegory; this is a true story from the heroic battle of Karintak. The war imposed on us, made us all the Army; this is the truth, the President said.

According to the President, during those years we needed officers - professional, experienced, and deeply knowledgeable of the military science.

We have been able to smoothly and effortlessly to intertwine the professional capabilities of the military and the strong battle spirit of the home guard. We were aware that the Fidai movement, even if of a heroic nature, had no prospects. The time had come to create a professional army. Military servicemen all over the Soviet Union answering the call of the Fatherland gathered here and carried out that tremendous task, Serzh Sargsyan said.

Twenty-five years ago, by the order of Vazgen Sargsyan our Army became a state structure. From that day one, we were fighting in the self-defense war at the state level. From that day on, the new and glorious history of the Armed Froces of the Republic of Armenia is being written. Many of the pages and heroes of that history have already appeared in history books. Moreover, that history has become an indivisible part of our national identity. That history is our self-respect, human and national dignity, the proof of our freedom, President Sargsyan added.
YEREVAN, JANAURY 28, ARMENPRESS. The Armenian Army has passed its unique path, becoming one of the most professional structures in Armenia, political scientist Alexander Margarov told ARMENPRESS.

The Armenian Army is the only triumphed Army in the region. Our Army passed its unique path, becoming a professional structure, which is able to respond to those problems which exist in the unstable region, he said.

According to Margarov, Armenian soldiers are distinguished not only by their high level combat training, but also stable morale. All of this is linked with the society. Every citizen is ready to give his assistance to the solution of those problems which the Army is facing. The connection, which exists between the citizens and the Army is one of the achievements and peculiarities of the Armenian Army, Margarov said.

January 28 marks the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Armenian Army. On January 28, 1992, the Government adopted a historic decision On the Defense Ministry of Armenia, heralding the formation of the Armenian Army. The first draft took place in May of 1992.
YEREVAN, JANUARY 28, ARMENPRESS. Former defense minister of Armenia Seyran Ohanyan doesnt rule out the possibility of taking part in the upcoming parliamentary election by forming an alliance with Prosperous Armenia party founder Gagik Tsarukyan.

Ohanyan told reporters he had meetings with Tsarukyan where upcoming goals were discussed. Now everyone is gathering their team of supporters, in order to see what happens in the future, Ohanyan said, stressing he doesnt rule out the possibility of forming an alliance with Gagik Tsarukyan.

Speaking on what made him take the decision of taking part in the parliamentary election, the former defense minister said he hasnt been included in the new Government, and by exercising his Constitutional opportunity, he decided to take part in the election and formation of the new administration system.

We, as Ive said in my different announcements, are going for the sake of an idea, for the sake of our countrys development. The foundation of this development should be creating all possibilities, in order for the security issues to be on solid basis as well. We see that our Army is an accomplished structure and it is developing. Today, I can say with great joy that the Army is developing through the efforts of the new leadership. However, the Armys support must be firm, and in order to develop the support we must develop our economy. We are going to take part in the election in order to realize these goals, Ohanyan stressed.

He added rather serious problems exist in the administration system, which must be solved all together. According to Ohanyan, possibilities must be created in order for the citizens to take part in the election freely and choose the administration system which will lead the country towards development.
Shares of Lockheed Martin (LMT) and Boeing (BA) dipped Friday after Secretary of Defense James Mattis directed cost-cutting reviews on the F-35 and presidential aircraft acquisition programs.

The Pentagon said in a memo on Friday that the reviews were to "inform programmatic and budgetary decisions, recognizing the critical importance of each of these acquisition programs."

"The Deputy Secretary of Defense shall oversee a review of the F-35 program to determine opportunities to significantly reduce the cost of the F-35 program while meeting requirements," the Pentagon said in a statement.

In a statement on Friday, Lockheed Martin said it "stands ready to support Secretary Mattis' review of the F-35 program and welcomes the appropriate focus on affordability and capability. "

"We also believe there are opportunities to continue to drive down program costs by using sound buying practices such as multi-year procurement that enable the Government to purchase thousands of critical components at an economic scale," The company added.



Since his Nov. 8 election victory, President Donald Trump has been critical of both companies. Last year, Trump took a shot at Boeing, threatening to cancel the order for a new 747 Air Force One program, and he criticized the Lockheed program's delays and costs.

Earlier this month, Lockheed Martin CEO Marillyn Hewson said the defensive contractor is "close to a deal" to bring down the cost of its F-35 fighter program following repeated criticisms from Trump.

The reviews should begin immediately, according to the memo.

Shares of Lockheed Martin ended the day about 0.6 percent lower, while Boeing shares fell 0.8 percent.

Lockheed Martin





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Cigar factories paying relatively high wages attract many workers, sometimes whole families, to Esteli in northern Nicaragua

Cuba's cigars may be more famous, but Nicaragua has its own growing reputation as a tobacco producer, boasting a sector that is a big exporter and employer, thanks mainly to US demand.

Esteli, a region in the north of the Central American country, has the dark soil and tropical climate propitious for growing the big leafy tobacco plants.

And there's a lot of Cuban know-how on the farms.

Many of the firms here are owned by families that emigrated from Cuba, says Juan Ignacio Martinez, the head of the Nicaraguan Chamber of Tobacco Growers.

In Nicaragua, "the soil is of volcanic origin and well suited for any sort of crop," he says, "especially tobacco leaf, which grows big here, with a lot of flavor and a great aroma that smokers like."

Some 27 big companies owned by US, European and Nicaraguan capital and 60 smaller local ones operate in the area, growing, curing, fermenting and producing cigars.

- A magnet for workers -

The activity has attracted workers from across the country, among them Isabel Ramos, whose family left the impoverished village of Murra to work in Esteli 17 years ago.

Now, she, her parents and three brothers bring in $900 per month to support the family.

"If it weren't for the tobacco, I would be working as a cook" for a paltry $50 a month, the 31-year-old mother of two teenagers said as she counted out dried shells used to make cigars for the US company Oliva Cigars.

"Tons of people" fleeing poverty have come to find employment in Esteli, she said.

Around 35,000 are estimated to work for the tobacco industry in northern Nicaragua, including many entire families.

The deleterious health effects of smoking are not a consideration for people who otherwise would have not enough to eat.

The influx has driven a boom in construction, shops and tourism, turning Esteli into one of Nicaragua's most important economic hubs.

"Here we have a chance to work and get enough money to build a house," says Sergio Gadea, 25, who arrived a year ago with his 16-year-old wife.

Story continues

- Exports to US and elsewhere -

Naksara Ochoa, 24, says eight members of her family work in the industry, making cigars in a factory while reggae music plays over employees too busy to raise their eyes.

Yasmina Cruz, 47, says her family is there to "get enough money to make a home." She has been working here with her husband for the past 18 years.

Nicaragua is one of Latin America's main tobacco producers, according to the Nicaraguan Chamber of Tobacco Growers.

Last year, it exported $200 million worth of tobacco products, a rise of 10 percent over the previous year. They went to 78 countries, the lion's share to the United States.

The plantations sprawl mostly across the cooler valleys of the mountain range that surrounds Esteli, where a "Puro Sabor" festival is held in mid-January each year to celebrate the crop. This year, the event attracted 400 representatives of cigar factories and buyers.

Nestor Plasencia, a plantation owner of Cuban origin, boasts about the region's product during the festival.

"Nicaragua's cigars are very well received," he says, "with a spectacular aroma."
It was a Facebook message Susan Chapelle never imagined she'd receive.

Amid birthday notifications and photo comments, a corrections officer wrote to let her know the man who raped her was being freed.

"All around awesome day," Chapelle wrote, irked after reading the note. "The man that raped me is being released. The prison guard that took care of him got in touch with me to inform me that he is still dangerous and going to reoffend."

Today, Chapelle is a 48-year-old B.C.-based health researcher. But in the 1990s, she was one of hundreds of women who officers would identify as victims in their investigation into one of Canada's worst sexual offenders: Selva Kumar Subbiah.

The now 56-year-old Malaysian native preyed on women in and around downtown Toronto. He would meet them by posing as a modelling agent or exotic pet seller, or simply at a coffee shop.

The extent of Subbiah's depravities would only be known after investigators entered a locked room in his west-end home containing scores of photos and journals, a book rating his victims, as well as a large quantity of the sleeping drug Halcion, according to retired officer Brian Thomson, an investigator in the case.

Altogether the cache included the names of some 500 women, who Thomson and his partner, Peter Duggan, painstakingly interviewed  120 of whom agreed to go to court.

'Deception and manipulation'

Subbiah was ultimately convicted in December 1992 and January 1997 of 75 crimes, including 26 counts of sexual assault against more than 30 victims, four of whom were minors and one as young as 14.

But on Jan. 29, after serving a sentence of more than 24 years, Subbiah is set to be deported to his home country under "an enforceable removal order," the Canadian Border Service Agency confirms.

A 2014 Parole Board of Canada review of Subbiah's case reveals his disturbing tactics: "The offences involved you luring and grooming the female victims using deception and manipulation, subduing them with intoxicants allowing you to have full control over them while they were incapacitated, and sexually assaulting them. You also took pornographic pictures of the victims while they were nude and unconscious."

Story continues

Chapelle didn't report her assault at the time, nor did she testify in court, she told CBC News.

It was 1989. She was 20 and living in Toronto's Beach neighbourhood, when she responded to an ad for a pet that she saw in the paper. Subbiah picked her up and took her to his Parkdale-area home around 4 p.m., where she says he offered her a glass of wine.

That's when things went black.

"I don't remember anything until I woke up at 11 o'clock," Chapelle said, recalling the incident. What she did know was her skirt was now on backwards and she felt awful all over.

"I had no idea what had happened. I assumed it was something horrible. But in your mind you're already justifying: I went to a stranger's house, I had a glass of wine, you're making those justifications in your head."

Rape myths persist

It's a familiar feeling for all too many survivors of sexual assault, says Tamar Witelson, legal director at METRAC Action on Violence. She said many victims  largely women  will refrain from reporting or speaking about their experiences because they feel culpable, even years after the fact.

"There's also a continuing social stigma," she said, adding friends, colleagues and even family members may engage in victim-blaming, asking what the person may have done to contribute to being attacked.

"It is never the fault of the survivor for being attacked, regardless of how she behaved, what she said, what she was wearing," said Witelson. "But these types of myths about sexual assault do persist."

On top of that, the legal system can be a barrier, both because of its complexity and because complainants often find their credibility questioned.

"She will have to answer questions that are very personal and private and can actually make her feel like her dignity is being attacked," said Witelson, adding that civil suits, human rights claims and victims' compensation boards are, for some, less adversarial alternatives to the criminal courts.

Chapelle says that's one of the key reasons she didn't come forward.

"You know that you're going to be questioned," she said. "I went with a stranger in a car. I wasn't willing to put myself in front of that prosecution and I was really afraid of the line of questioning."

Nearly 30 years later, she says little has changed for sexual assault survivors, citing a lack of culturally appropriate services and forensic testing that is still an hours-long drive away from many rural communities.

Overshadowed by Bernardo case, former officer says

But Chapelle couldn't escape the memory of the assault. At the time police were investigating, she had suicidal thoughts and consulted police about counselling, only to have an officer suggest she speak to a priest.

At the time, police resources were tight. It was all hands on deck for the investigation into serial killer Paul Bernardo, Thomson said. While a few other officers were put on the Subbiah case temporarily, he and "Pete" quickly found themselves working alone, referring as many women as possible to Victims Services to connect them with the necessary supports.

"Subbiah was not big news at the time. Bernardo was. They had a whole team of people investigating that," Thomson said. "I wish we had more people."

"I can say that in my heart we did everything we could and tried to put things in place for assistance and help," Thomson said, ahead of Subbiah's release. "I'm sorry," he added, apologizing for Chapelle's experience.

Thomson knows Subbiah's impact will never be erased. With his release date imminent, Thomson says several of the victims who kept in touch over the years have called to express their worry.

"It affects, and still does to this day, the victims," said Thomson, who retired in 2011 and has since moved to a property near Georgian Bay. "And in a different way it affects Pete and I," he said, the hours of interviews and endless graphic details etched into his memory.

"Now I can look out my kitchen window and it's an acre of land, the old fence that the farmers put up and beyond that, forest. And that's my solace. But I know his date's coming."

A 2014 parole board report details Subbiah's "superficial remorse" and "need for control... and self-gratification," finding him at high risk to reoffend.

"He is a prolific psychopath who should be kept behind bars for the rest of his life," Thompson said.

'It's still raw'

Asked if Subbiah will walk free in Malaysia, High Commission spokesperson Dzulkefly Abdullah responded only that the 56-year-old has served his sentence in Canada, and that "the matter is under the purview of the Malaysian authorities."

For her part, Chapelle says she remains haunted by the thought that just maybe she could have done something to prevent Subbiah from destroying so many lives.

"That has weighed on me," she said. "If you think of the sheer number of women that were abused by this man ... It's impossible not to feel guilty. It's still raw for me."

But since sharing her story, she says dozens of women have disclosed to her that they too have never reported their sexual assaults.

"It's sort of like a sisterhood," but it's not a solution for the lack of support for sexual assault survivors, says Chappelle.

"But I think that women want to say, 'Hey, me too' and be counted," she said. "To be counted is very powerful."
WASHINGTON/NEW YORK (Reuters) - President Donald Trump's most far reaching action since taking office plunged America's immigration system into chaos on Saturday, not only for refugees but for legal U.S. residents who were turned away at airports and feared being stranded outside the country.

Immigration lawyers and advocates worked through the night trying to help stranded travelers find a way back home. Lawyers in New York sued to block the order, saying many people have already been unlawfully detained, including an Iraqi who worked for the U.S. Army in Iraq.

Confusion abounded at airports as immigration and customs officials struggled to interpret the new rules, with some legal residents who were in the air when the order was issued detained at airports upon arrival.

"Imagine being put back on a 12-hour flight and the trauma and craziness of this whole thing," said Mana Yegani, an immigration lawyer in Houston. "These are people that are coming in legally. They have jobs here and they have vehicles here."

Thousands of refugees seeking entry were thrown into limbo. Melanie Nezer of the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society, a Jewish group that works with refugees, said she knew of roughly 2,000 who were booked to come to the United States next week.

The new Republican president on Friday put a four-month hold on allowing refugees into the United States and temporarily barred travelers from Syria and six other Muslim-majority countries. He said the moves would protect Americans from terrorism, in a swift and stern delivery on a campaign promise.

"It's not a Muslim ban," Trump said on Saturday after signing more executive orders in the Oval Office. He said such measures should have been in place for years.

The ban affects travelers with passports from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen and extends to green card holders who are legal permanent residents of the United States.

Arab travelers in the Middle East and North Africa said the order was humiliating and discriminatory. It drew widespread criticism from U.S. Western allies including France and Germany, Arab-American groups and human rights organizations.

Story continues

Iran condemned the order as an "open affront against the Muslim world and the Iranian nation" and vowed to retaliate.

Of the seven countries targeted, Iran sends the most visitors to the United States each year - around 35,000 in 2015, according to the Department of Homeland Security.

Sudan called the action "very unfortunate" after Washington lifted sanctions on the country just weeks ago for cooperation on combating terrorism. A Yemeni official expressed dismay at the ban.

Canadians welcome those fleeing persecution, terror and war "regardless of your faith," Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said in a Twitter post.

During the presidential campaign, Trump promised to clamp down on immigration as a way to prevent attacks. He first proposed a ban on Muslims entering the United States, modifying that later to "extreme vetting" of immigrants from certain countries.

Friday's action extends to green card holders who are authorized to live and work in the United States, Homeland Security spokeswoman Gillian Christensen said.

It was unclear how many legal permanent residents would be affected. A senior U.S. administration official said on Saturday that green card holders from the seven affected countries have to be cleared into the United States on a case-by-case basis.

According to State Department guidance, travelers who have dual nationality of one of these countries will not be permitted for 90 days to enter the United States or be issued an immigrant or nonimmigrant visa. The senior administration officials would not address legal challenges to the order and noted that nobody living overseas has a right to enter the United States. LEGAL RESIDENTS STUNNED

Legal residents of the United States were plunged into despair at the prospect of being unable to return to the United States or being separated from family members trapped abroad.

"I never thought something like this would happen in America," said Mohammad Hossein Ziya, 33, who came to the United States in 2011 after being forced to leave Iran for his political activities.

Ziya, who lives in Virginia, has a green card and planned to travel to Dubai next week to see his elderly father. Saleh Taghvaeian, 36, teaches agricultural water management at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, said he feared his wife would not be able to return from Iran after a visit.

In Cairo, five Iraqi passengers and one Yemeni were barred from boarding an EgyptAir flight to New York on Saturday, sources at Cairo airport said. Dutch airline KLM [AIRF.PA] said on Saturday it had refused carriage to the United States to seven passengers from predominately Muslim countries.

Canada's WestJet Airlines said it turned back a passenger bound for the United States on Saturday in order to comply with the order. A spokeswoman did not say which country the passenger had come from.

At least three lawyers from the International Refugee Assistance Project were at the arrivals lounge at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport, buried in their laptops and conference calls, photocopies of individuals' U.S. visas on hand. U.S. AGENCIES SCRAMBLE

In Washington, the agencies charged with handling immigration and refugee issues grappled with how to interpret the measure. U.S. officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said they were not consulted on the executive order and in some cases only learned the details as they were made public.

At the State Department, a senior official said lawyers were working closely with their counterparts at Homeland Security to interpret the executive order, which allows entry to people affected by the order when it is in the "national interest."

However, a federal law enforcement official said, "It's unclear at this point what the threshold of national interest is."

Senior administration officials said it would have been "reckless" to broadcast details of the order in advance of new security measures. The officials told reporters that Homeland Security now has guidance for airlines. Since it was announced on Friday, enforcement of the order was spotty and disorganized.

Travelers were handled differently at different points of entry and immigration lawyers were advising clients to change their destination to the more lenient airports, said Houston immigration lawyer Yegani. She said officials denied travelers with dual Canadian and Iranian citizenship from boarding planes in Canada to the United States.

The order seeks to prioritize refugees fleeing religious persecution. In a television interview, Trump said the measure was aimed at helping Christians in Syria.

Lawyers from immigration organizations and the American Civil Liberties Union sued in federal court in Brooklyn on behalf of two Iraqi men, one a former U.S. government worker and the other the husband of a former U.S. security contractor.

The two men had visas to enter the United States but were detained on Friday night at Kennedy airport, hours after Trump's executive order, the lawsuit said. One of the men, former U.S. Army interpreter, Hameed Khalid Darweesh, was later released.

"I don't think anyone is going to take this lying down," said Cleveland immigration lawyer David Leopold. "This is the tip of the spear and more litigation is coming." (Reporting by Jeff Mason, Roberta Rampton, Doina Chiacu, Lesley Wroughton, Yeganeh Torbati in Washington; Mica Rosenberg, Jonathan Allen and David Ingram in New York; Brendan O'Brien in Milwaukee; Khalid Abdelaziz in Khartoum; Parisa Hafezi in Dubai; Andrea Hopkins in Toronto; Writing by Doina Chiacu; Editing by Mary Milliken and Grant McCool)
FRIDAY, Jan. 27, 2017 (HealthDay News) -- Older women treated for a very early form of breast cancer, called ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), do not have an overall increased risk of early death compared to their peers, a new study finds.

"Being diagnosed with DCIS can be extremely distressing, and research indicates that many women overestimate the risks involved and are confused about treatment. This study should provide reassurance that a diagnosis of DCIS does not raise the risk of dying," said Dr. Lotte Elshof. She is an epidemiologist at the Netherlands Cancer Institute in Amsterdam.

Elshof was to present the findings Friday at the European Cancer Congress in Amsterdam.

According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, DCIS "is a noninvasive cancer where abnormal cells have been found in the lining of the breast milk duct. The atypical cells have not spread outside of the ducts into the surrounding breast tissue. Ductal carcinoma in situ is very early cancer that is highly treatable. . . ."

Untreated, DCIS can progress into invasive life-threatening breast cancer. However, it is usually treated with either surgery alone, or a combination of surgery and radiation therapy.

To determine the prognosis of older women diagnosed with DCIS, Elshof's team tracked 10-year outcomes for 10,000 Dutch women who were diagnosed with the condition between 1989 and 2004.

Women older than 50 who had been treated for DCIS actually had a 10 percent lower risk of dying from all causes combined, compared with women in the general population, the researchers found.

Specifically, the DCIS patients were less likely to die from other types of cancer and from circulatory, respiratory and digestive diseases, the findings showed.

"It might seem surprising that this group of women actually has a lower mortality rate than the general population. However, the vast majority would have been diagnosed via breast screening, which suggests they may be health-conscious and well enough to participate in screening," Elshof explained in a news release from the European Cancer Congress.

The study also looked at the risk of death from breast cancer. The investigators found that women treated for DCIS had a 2.5 percent risk of breast cancer death after 10 years, and a 4 percent risk after 15 years.

Both of those rates are higher than in the general population, Elshof's team noted. However, rates were lower in women whose DCIS had been diagnosed more recently, the study authors added.

And Philip Poortmans, president-elect of the European Cancer Organization, pointed out in the news release that "the increased risk of dying from breast cancer is completely offset by a lower risk of dying from other causes compared to women in the general population."

Two U.S. oncologists who reviewed the new study said it should reassure patients.

"The important take-away message is that women diagnosed with DCIS can be expected to live to a normal age as a whole," said Dr. Stephanie Bernik. She is chief of surgical oncology at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City.

However, she agreed with the authors that there's a good explanation as to why women with DCIS tended to have better life expectancy than other women.

"If a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, she will find herself with doctors' visits at every turn," Bernik noted. "This group of women is often encouraged to go to their primary medical doctor for any issue that may arise and screening for other cancers is more likely to occur. This may explain why women diagnosed with DCIS have a better overall survival."

Dr. Eleonora Teplinsky is an oncologist at Northwell Health Cancer Institute in Lake Success, N.Y. She called the new study "excellent," and said the next steps should look at "factors that contribute to the progression of DCIS to invasive disease."

Findings presented at medical meetings are typically considered preliminary until published in a peer-reviewed journal.

More information

The U.S. National Cancer Institute has more on DCIS.
The 10th annual Chili Cook-off to benefit the Trinity/HOPE Feeding Program in Haiti will be served from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. next Saturday (Feb. 4) in the West Ministry Center at Christ Lutheran Church, 4325 Sumner St.

Each year 100% of the proceeds from the fundraiser go to feed the children at Chincheron, Haiti. Workers will serve a varieties of chili, including vegetarian and gluten-free, along with chicken noodle soup.

Over the past 10 years more than 600,000 meals have been provided for the children and teachers at Chincheron School.

A free-will offering is welcome.
Updated: January 26, 2020

Practitioners of feng shui believe in the importance of balance between man and nature. When you achieve this in your life, then luck will be on your side and success will come easy.

Thats why its not a surprise that many use the principles of feng shui in business to increase their luck and success.

Recently, Globe myBusiness asked one of the leading feng shui expert in the Philippines, Master Francis Gaw, to give business tips to those who want to delve into entrepreneurship.

He gave six tips, which I turned into a simple infographic below:

In Summary

DO determine if youre made to be a businessman. DONT start your business during the Ghost Month. DO set up in a place youre comfortable in. DONT adhere to all symbols and superstitions. DO push for sustainability. DONT think luck is all that matters

Feng Shui Business Tips:

Ive written about feng shui business tips before. And here are some of the advice I gave there:

Your business entrance should have a strong flow of feng shui energy. The outside should be clean, well-lit.

Your store business name is clear, noticeable and easy to read.

You should have a good flow of energy inside. Practically, this means that your store should not feel cramped.

It should be comfortable to stay inside and easy for customers to walk and go around in.

Your cash register should be placed diagonally from the entrance because this is believed to be a powerful feng shui spot.

Your desk or work space should not be cluttered.

Keep it clean everyday and for good luck, put a plant or a family picture in a wood frame on it.

Speaking of plants, its always best to have live plants and flowers in your office or place of business.

In the end, Master Francis Gaw reminds us that our destiny still depends on hard work, faith and prayer, plus a little bit of luck. We find signs through feng shui. Dates, experiences, and occurrences can point the way, but what matters is that we find them so they can lead us to where we want and need to be.

Globe myBusiness is a brand partner of this blog.

What to do next: Click here to subscribe to our FREE newsletter.
RALEIGH, N.C., Jan. 27, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- State Employees Credit Union (SECU) members are continuing their support of financial literacy for North Carolinas youth by providing a $75,000 grant from the SECU Foundation to help fund Season 6 production of the Biz Kid$ public television series. This grant follows the Foundations previous donations to the Emmy award-winning Biz Kid$ series, as SECU members provided $125,000 in 2009 and $250,000 in 2011 for production of Seasons 3, 4 and 5.



Introduced by SECUs staff to North Carolina schools, Biz Kid$ programming can be viewed on several University of North Carolina Public Television Network stations and is a fun and educational middle school financial education curriculum that teaches kids about money and business. The program is a great addition to SECUs other youth education offerings, including SECUs FAT CAT Program for elementary-age students, the National Endowment for Financial Education High School Financial Planning Program (NEFE HSFPP), SECUs Reality of Money Experiential Learning Program, and young adult presentations for college-age students.

There are currently over 750 SECU employees statewide who are trained to teach Biz Kid$. Through established connections with local schools, these representatives teach Biz Kid$ curriculum in the classroom and provide ongoing support to the schools faculty and staff. In addition, the Credit Union gifts a season series DVD box set to public middle schools, making the videos accessible to students and giving teachers the confidence to use a nationally supported financial education program that has been mapped to the state standards in North Carolina.

Credit Union staff have found the Biz Kid$ program to be a valuable financial education tool for middle school students. It keeps them engaged in the learning process of managing money, said Jim Johnson, SECU Foundation Board Chair. SECU strives to find creative ways to help youth understand and develop good spending and saving habits  essential life skills needed to help them become financially healthy.

Last year, SECU reached top spots in the National Youth Involvement Boards award program, which recognizes credit unions youth financial education presentation efforts. Between July 1, 2015 and June 30, 2016, SECU team members delivered 784 presentations, reaching 72,622 youth  44 of which were Biz Kid$ presentations to 2,354 students.

About SECU and the SECU Foundation

A not-for-profit financial cooperative owned by its members, SECU has been providing employees of the State of North Carolina and their families with consumer financial services for over 79 years. The Credit Union also offers a diversified line of financial advisory services including retirement and education planning, tax preparation, insurance, trust and estate planning services, and investments through its partners and affiliated entities. SECU serves 2.2 million members through 257 branch offices, nearly 1,100 ATMs, 24/7 Member Services via phone and a website, www.ncsecu.org. The SECU Foundation, a 501c (3) charitable organization funded solely by the contributions of SECU members, promotes local community development in North Carolina primarily through high impact projects in the areas of housing, education, healthcare and human services.
Calling All 2017 Consortium MBA Applicants!!! [ #permalink

1 Kudos

CORE ESSAY





The essays below are published to assist Consortium applicants in preparation for the 2016- 2017 application. The essays are current as of July 15, 2016 and could change before the application opens in mid-August. Applicants are encouraged to read each school prompt closely once the application is accessible.



The following essay questions provide us with an opportunity to evaluate your strengths and weaknesses, experiences, and any other traits and abilities that are considered relevant to your educational goals and long-term career objectives. Please include your full name and date of birth (mm/dd/yyyy) on each page. Also include the essay number, page number and number of pages in the footer for each essay (Example: Essay #1  Page 1 of 2). Type your essays in a standard size 8 1/2" x 11" MS Word document. Please limit each essay to no more than two double-spaced pages.



Core Essay #1 (Required): Please describe your short and long term goals post-MBA. How has your professional experience shaped these goals and influenced your decision to pursue an MBA degree?

Core Essay #2 (Optional): Is there any other information you would like to share that is not presented elsewhere in the application? You may also use this essay to provide further explanation of employment gaps, test scores, etc.



Mission Essay: The mission of The Consortium is to enhance diversity in business education and leadership by helping the serious underrepresentation of African American, Hispanic Americans and Native Americans in both our member schools enrollments and the ranks of management. What have you done pre-MBA in your business, academic or personal life to demonstrate commitment to this mission? What will you do while enrolled in your MBA program to demonstrate your commitment to the mission? What will you do post-MBA with respect to community service and leadership involvement to demonstrate your continued commitment to The Consortiums

mission of diversity and inclusion?



Please provide specific examples of your involvement, actions and results. * (4,000 characters)





CARNEGIE MELLON



Essay #1 (Maximum 300 -350 words): Imagine that you meet up with a member of the admission committee at an airport while on a layover. You have an opportunity to make a memorable impression. Use this essay to introduce yourself. Include any information that you believe is important for the committee member to know about you both professionally and personally.





CORNELL



Character Essay (1000 character maximum) (Required): You are the author of Your Life Story, please create the table of contents for the book. We value creativity and authenticity and encourage you to approach this essay with your unique style. Alternative submission formats may include a slide presentation, links to pre-existing media (personal website, digital portfolio, YouTube etc.), as well as visually enhanced written submission.



Maximum file size is 5MB.We cannot accept .zip or .exe files. If you choose to submit a written Table of Contents, please limit your submission to 500 words or fewer and use the space provided. If submitting a multimedia essay, please limit entry to 5 minutes.



Impact Essay: At Cornell, we value students who create impact. Please indicate the opportunities for impact that you have identified through engagement with our community and describe how these interactions have influenced your decisions to apply to Johnson. (500 Word Maximum)



Optional Essay: Complete this essay if you would like to add additional details regarding your candidacy. For instance, if you believe one or more aspects of your application (e.g., undergraduate record or test scores) do not accurately reflect your potential for success at Johnson. If you are reapplying for admission, please use this essay to indicate how you have strengthened your application since the last time you applied for admission. (500 word maximum)





DARTMOUTH



Essay #1 (Required): Thank you for detailing your goals in Consortium Essay #1. Please discuss why you are interested in Tuck specifically and how Tuck can help you accomplish your short and longterm goals.



Essay #2 (Required): As a diverse and global community, our students arrive at the same place from many different paths. Tell us about an experience in which you have had to live, learn and/or work with other people very different from yourself. What challenges and/or opportunities did you experience, how did you respond, and what did you learn about yourself as a result?



Essay #3: (Optional) Please provide any additional insight or information that you have not addressed elsewhere that may be helpful in reviewing your application (e.g., unusual choice of evaluators, weaknesses in academic performance, unexplained job gaps or changes, etc.). Complete this question only if you feel your candidacy is not fully represented by this application.



Essay #4: (To be completed by all re-applicants) How have you strengthened your candidacy since you last applied? Please reflect on how you have grown personally and professionally.





EMORY



Essay #1: The Business School is named for Roberto C. Goizueta, former Chairman and CEO of The Coca-Cola Company, who led the organization for 16 years, extending its global reach, quadrupling consumption, building brand responsibility, and creating unprecedented shareholder wealth. Mr. Goizuetas core values guide us in educating Principled Leaders for Global Enterprise. Provide an example of your leadership - professional or personal - and explain what you learned about yourself through the experience. (300 word limit)



Essay #2: Share with the committee and your future classmates a fun or noteworthy fact about you. (25 word limit)





GEORGETOWN



Essay #1: What matters to you? Please share an experience from your past that illustrates why this matters to you and how it will enable you to contribute during your MBA Program (note: this does not necessarily need to be related to your professional goals). (500 word limit)



Optional Essay: If you are not currently employed full-time, use this space to provide information about your current activities. (1,000 characters)



Video Essay: Please introduce yourself to your future Georgetown MBA cohort in a one minute video. You may paste the link to your YouTube or Vimeo video here: (75 characters)



Dual Degree Essay: If you are applying to a dual degree program, please address how the additional degree will help you reach your goals. (2,000 characters)



Re-applicant essay: How have you strengthened your candidacy since your last application? We are particularly interested in hearing about how you have grown professionally and personally. In addition, please update the Admissions Committee on your short-term career goals following graduation from the Georgetown MBA program. (4,000 characters)





INDIANA UNIVERSITY - BLOOMINGTON



Essay #1: How did you first learn of the Kelley School of Business? How will the particular attributes of the Kelley MBA Program prepare you to meet your professional goals?* (limit 500 words)



Essay #2: Share a brief fact about yourself that your classmates would find interesting, surprising or noteworthy (limit 25 words).



NYU



Your Fit with NYU Stern*:

What actions have you taken to determine that NYU Stern is the best fit for your MBA experience?* (250 words maximum)





BERKELEY HAAS



At Berkeley-Haas we seek candidates from a broad range of cultures, backgrounds, and industries who demonstrate a strong cultural fit with our program and defining principles. Our distinctive culture is defined by four key principles - Question the Status Quo, Confidence Without Attitude, Students Always, and Beyond Yourself. We encourage you to reflect on your experiences, values, and passions so that you may craft a thoughtful and authentic response.



Essay #1: If you could choose one song that expresses who you are, what is it and why?* (2000 characters)



Your song can be in any language, from any culture, and does not need to contain lyrics. The strongest responses will focus on answering why this song expresses who you are.



Essay #2: Please respond to one of the following prompts: (2000 characters)

 Describe an experience that has fundamentally changed the way you see the world and how it transformed you.

 Describe a time when you were challenged by perspectives different from your own and how you responded.

 Describe a difficult decision you have made and why it was challenging.



In your response, clearly indicate to which prompt (1, 2, or 3) you are responding. We do not have a preference among the prompts and suggest that you select the one for which you can share a specific experience, professional or personal.



Optional Essay Why Haas? (2000 characters)



UCLA



Essay #1 Required: We believe that the best results are achieved when you share success, think fearlessly, and drive change. With this in mind, what are your goals at UCLA Anderson and in your short-term and long-term career? (4,000 characters)





UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN



Essay #1: What are you most proud of? How does it shape who you are today? (up to 400 words)



Essay #2: What is your desired career path and why? (up to 400 words)



UNC



Essay #1 (Optional): What personal qualities or life experiences distinguish you from other applicants? How do these qualities or experiences equip you to contribute to UNC KenanFlagler? (500 words)



Essay #2 (Optional): If you have not had coursework in core business subjects (calculus, microeconomics, statistics, financial accounting) or if your standardized test scores are low, please tell us how you plan to prepare yourself for the quantitative rigor of the MBA curriculum. (300 words)





UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER



Essay #1 (Required): Discuss your specific interest in completing the MBA program at the Simon School. What aspects of the Rochester MBA program make it a good fit for your studies and how do you anticipate contributing to the business school community? (250-500 word limit)



Essay #2 (Required): In 25 words or less, provide us with an interesting fact about yourself not expressed elsewhere in your application. (25 word limit)



Essay #3 (Optional): Share any information that you think is important in the evaluation of your application, including any concerns you thing the Admissions Committee may have regarding you application. Discuss any unexplained gaps in work experience, choice of recommenders, academic or exam results, etc. (500 word limit)



USC



Please complete both sections in no more than 700 words combined:

1. What is your immediate short-term goal post-graduation from USC Marshall MBA program? (Please include industry and function information in your answer).

2. How will USC Marshall enable you to develop or improve your skills in order to reach your goals?





UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN



Essay #1: The University of Texas at Austin values unique perspective and cultivates a collaborative environment of distinct individual contributions. It is the first day of orientation. You are meeting your study group, comprised of five of your classmates from various backgrounds. Please introduce yourself to your new team, highlighting what drives you in your personal and professional life. (250 words) A) Students can also opt to submit a 1 minute video



Essay #2: Based on your post-MBA goals and what drives you in your personal and professional life, why is the Texas MBA the ideal program for you and how do you plan to engage in our community? (500 words) Essay #3 (Optional Statement): Please provide any additional information you believe is important and/or address any areas of concern that will be beneficial to the Admissions Committee in considering your application (examples: unexplained gaps in work experience, choice of recommenders, academic performance, or extenuating personal circumstances). (250 words)



Essay #3 (Optional Statement): Please provide any additional information you believe is important and/or address any areas of concern that will be beneficial to the Admissions Committee in considering your application (examples: unexplained gaps in work experience, choice of recommenders, academic performance, or extenuating personal circumstances). (250 words)





UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA



1. What is your short-term, post-MBA career goal and why? (150 words)

2. Tell us what you would want your learning team to know about you (100 words)

3. If you could go anywhere in the world with Darden, where would you go and why? (50 words)

4. Charlottesville has a renowned film festival, book festival, and vibrant music scene. What is your favorite film, book, or song? (15 words)



WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY OF ST LOUIS



Essay: Please describe why you view the Olin Business School as a good fit for you.



UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN MADISON



Fall 2017 Required Application: Please make sure to answer the question in full. Why do you want to pursue an MBA at Wisconsin at this point in your life? What actions have you taken to understand your selected career specialization, and why is this the best fit for you? What do you see yourself doing professionally after graduation?



Recommended Application Essay: You have the option to complete one of the recommended essays. Please use this opportunity to share additional information about yourself with the admissions committee.



1. Describe an experience that has fundamentally changed the way you see the world and how it transformed you.

2. Teamwork and leadership are ingrained in the Wisconsin MBA program; from classes to extracurricular activities and beyond. Describe an impactful time you experienced as a leader. What challenges did you face, and what did you learn?

3. Describe an ethical dilemma you experienced at work; what decisions did you have to make and what was the outcome.



Optional Application Essay 1. Please use this optional essay to communicate additional information about yourself that is not represented in the application you feel would benefit the admissions committee.



YALE



Essay Instructions: Please answer the essay question below within the specified word limit. Your essay must be entirely your own work. Although you may ask others for general feedback on your essay, you may not allow anyone else to edit it for you.



Essay #1: The Yale School of Management educates individuals who will have deep and lasting impact on the organizations they lead. Describe the biggest commitment you have ever made.



Optional Information If you are a re-applicant please answer the following: Since your last application, please discuss any updates to your candidacy, including changes in your personal life, additional coursework, or extracurricular/volunteer activities. (200 words maximum)
Essay Questions

Essay 1.

Select only one communication method that you would like to use for your response.

Write an essay (250 words)

Share a video introduction (one minute)

Essay 2.

Optional Statement:

The University of Texas at Austin values unique perspectives and cultivates a collaborative environment of distinct individual contributions. It is the first day of orientation. You are meeting your study group, comprised of five of your classmates from various backgrounds. Please introduce yourself to your new team, highlighting what drives you in your personal and professional life.Based on your post-MBA goals and what drives you in your personal and professional life, why is the Texas MBA the ideal program for you and how do you plan to engage in our community? (500 words)Please provide any additional information you believe is important and/or address any areas of concern that will be beneficial to the Admissions Committee in considering your application (e.g. unexplained gaps in work experience, choice of recommenders, academic performance, or extenuating personal circumstances). (250 words)
Sunday (Jan. 29) marks the beginning of Catholic Schools Week, our annual celebration of Catholic Education. This years theme is Catholic Schools: Communities of Faith, Knowledge and Service, and encompasses several concepts that are at the heart of a Catholic Education. The theme closely parallels the three tasks of Jesus mission:

Faith comes from preaching, Knowledge comes from teaching, and Service is how we go about healing.

Catholic Schools are communities of Faith, where we proudly teach students about God. Catholic School students openly pray and worship God on a daily basis. Classroom prayers and regular Masses form the minds, hearts and souls of students, helping them to love as committed Christian disciples.

The second characteristic from the theme of National Catholic Schools Week is that Catholic Schools are communities of knowledge. Catholic Schools exist to pass on knowledge, not just the practical knowledge of reading, writing, arithmetic and so on, but also knowledge of God and Truth, which is our spiritual heritage as Catholics, who believe there is no conflict between faith and knowledge. The Catholic intellectual tradition shows us that faith and knowledge each illuminate the other and allow us to pursue truth and reason without fear, because God is the source of all knowledge and truth.

Students in Catholic Schools are held to high academic standards. Catholic Schools educate the whole childmind, spirit, and body. We work to ensure every child is well-rounded with courses in art, literature, music, science, math, physical education and technology.

Catholic Schools are communities of faith, knowledge and most importantly, service. Service is the Key to the Christian Life, because when Jesus called his disciples, he immediately gave them work to dofishing for peopleand an example to follow. He went about Galilee teaching, preaching and healing. At its root, is service not a form of healing? When we help shovel snow for a neighbor, are we not healing a bit of loneliness as we remove the snow? When we collect gloves and hats for children in need, are we not healing a bit of the anxiety and fear felt by parents who are experiencing a hard time? Service is an expression of love and care; it is an integral part of the life of Catholic Schools, which are committed communities of service, places where helping one another and aiding the needy are the modus operandiit is the normal way of living life.

When families enroll their children in Catholic Schools, they are certain their children will receive an excellent education steeped in the Catholic Faith and focused on the needs of each student. During Catholic Schools Week, schools celebrate students, parents, and families, Priests, Sisters, Teacher and Staff. Special and meaningful activities are planned for them to express appreciation to all that have contributed and for all that is accomplished.

Our Catholic Schools provide a safe and disciplined environment where each student is expected to reach his or her potential. We do everything possible to make certain that students become everything they can within our Catholic communities of Faith, Knowledge, and Service.
Bruce DelMonico , assistant dean for admissions at Yale School of Management , has previewed the new essay question that will be a part of the fall 2017 MBA application. The Yale SOM admissions committee would like you to:



Describe the biggest commitment you have ever made. (500 words maximum)



This seemingly simple and straightforward prompt, DelMonico says, was developed in collaboration with Yale SOM professor of organizational behavior Amy Wrzesniewski .



The SOM will continue using a slide-scale application fee, which ties your application fee to your total annual compensation, for the upcoming year, DelMonico adds.



The sliding-scale fee helps us attract diverse applicants from all over the world, including those from countries where pay scales are different from the United States and from industries where compensation varies, he writes.



The 2016-2017 application goes live in mid-July. For more information, please visit the Yale SOM admissions website.



You may also be interested in:

Yale SOM Fall 2017 MBA Application Deadlines








1. Is MIT LGO open for International students or is it specifically for candidates with US citizenship/PR status/with US work permit.

2. Is it that international candidates with a PR/US wrk permit are preferred over other international students

3. What is the % of International students in a typical LGO class, is there anyone from India

4. With close to 10 years of work experience, do I fit into the work ex. bracket of a LGO class.

5. A follow up question, I will turn 34 by the time I matriculate into LGO class, How would be my fit w.r.t age among my peers.

6. What % of students in LGO class who are married ?

7. I have read that MIT may refuse admits to students already who already hold an MBA degree. I hold a Post Graduate Executive Management Program(PGEMP) (21 months modular completed while working), is PGEMP equivalent to MBA ?, what are my chances given this case, am I eligible for applying or is it a straight forward reject.

8. Since LGO is a dual degree program (MS + MBA), therefore, does it qualifies for 12 months OPT

1. Some inputs on Average Program Cost : The website says MIT LGO grants $40,000 to $70,000 as financial aid to each incoming student. What is average financial aid awarded to the incoming candidate.

2. Estimate of any other mandatory study related expenses

3. Is the 6 months internship at partner company paid ? this may help offset some cost



4. Any possibility of getting TA/ part time work to offset some of the expenses.



5. Average cost of living for a family (self & Spouse). Does MIT assist LGO student with partners to get housing within MIT campus ?

MihirRR26 wrote:





I am starting this thread to gear us for the forthcoming MIT LGO application for the class of 2019...may be bit early!



To begin with, I would like seek expert advice from MIT LGO students and alumni to help me in chalking my road map.



Admission Related Queries:



1. Is MIT LGO open for International students or is it specifically for candidates with US citizenship/PR status/with US work permit.



2. Is it that international candidates with a PR/US wrk permit are preferred over other international students



3. What is the % of International students in a typical LGO class, is there anyone from India



4. With close to 10 years of work experience, do I fit into the work ex. bracket of a LGO class.



5. A follow up question, I will turn 34 by the time I matriculate into LGO class, How would be my fit w.r.t age among my peers.



6. What % of students in LGO class who are married ?



7. I have read that MIT may refuse admits to students already who already hold an MBA degree. I hold a Post Graduate Executive Management Program(PGEMP) (21 months modular completed while working), is PGEMP equivalent to MBA ?, what are my chances given this case, am I eligible for applying or is it a straight forward reject.



8. Since LGO is a dual degree program (MS + MBA), therefore, does it qualifies for 12 months OPT



Finance Related Queries:



1. Some inputs on Average Program Cost : The website says MIT LGO grants $40,000 to $70,000 as financial aid to each incoming student. What is average financial aid awarded to the incoming candidate.



2. Estimate of any other mandatory study related expenses



3. Is the 6 months internship at partner company paid ? this may help offset some cost



4. Any possibility of getting TA/ part time work to offset some of the expenses.



5. Average cost of living for a family (self & Spouse). Does MIT assist LGO student with partners to get housing within MIT campus ?



Your response to this post is highly appreciated.



Thanks a ton in advance!



Regards,



Mihir R. Hi,I am starting this thread to gear us for the forthcoming MIT LGO application for the class of 2019...may be bit early!To begin with, I would like seek expert advice from MIT LGO students and alumni to help me in chalking my road map.Admission Related Queries:1. Is MIT LGO open for International students or is it specifically for candidates with US citizenship/PR status/with US work permit.2. Is it that international candidates with a PR/US wrk permit are preferred over other international students3. What is the % of International students in a typical LGO class, is there anyone from India4. With close to 10 years of work experience, do I fit into the work ex. bracket of a LGO class.5. A follow up question, I will turn 34 by the time I matriculate into LGO class, How would be my fit w.r.t age among my peers.6. What % of students in LGO class who are married ?7. I have read that MIT may refuse admits to students already who already hold an MBA degree. I hold a Post Graduate Executive Management Program(PGEMP) (21 months modular completed while working), is PGEMP equivalent to MBA ?, what are my chances given this case, am I eligible for applying or is it a straight forward reject.8. Since LGO is a dual degree program (MS + MBA), therefore, does it qualifies for 12 months OPTFinance Related Queries:1. Some inputs on Average Program Cost : The website says MIT LGO grants $40,000 to $70,000 as financial aid to each incoming student. What is average financial aid awarded to the incoming candidate.2. Estimate of any other mandatory study related expenses3. Is the 6 months internship at partner company paid ? this may help offset some cost4. Any possibility of getting TA/ part time work to offset some of the expenses.5. Average cost of living for a family (self & Spouse). Does MIT assist LGO student with partners to get housing within MIT campus ?Your response to this post is highly appreciated.Thanks a ton in advance!Regards,Mihir R.

Hi Mihir,Glad you're thinking of applying to LGO! My name is Lilly Cao and I am an LGO '17. I'll try my best to answer your questions. There is some very helpful info on the website so I highly recommend starting from there.The program accepts international students without US citizenship/PR status/ US work permit. I am one of the 10 of my class.I don't think that LGO students or alumni can answer since we are not involved in the admission process. I believe there may be certain partner companies that have hiring restrictions for international students, but I can't say if that has a impact in admission.Each class is different so difficult to define "typical". We have LGOs originally from India in our class.The average is 5. 10 years is on the high end.That will also be on the high end of the range.I have not computed this stat exactly, but maybe half? Several also have children.Since yours is an uncommon case, I would direct this question specifically to the office as they can best answer about admissions on a individual case. I would also consider if it's there are similarities between PGEMP and MBA, what you hope to gain that was not offered in the PGEMP, since an MBA (and LGO) are a considerable investment.It qualifies as one of the STEM degrees that grant OPT extension.Finance Related Queries:Not sure. I would also direct that question to the LGO office.There is a subsidy for housing and relocation, but I would not plan on offsetting costs through the internship.Yes, TAships are possible.There is a lottery for MIT family housing. I'm afraid I can't help on the cost of living for a family. If this is a burning concern, just make sure to mention it when contacting the LGO office. They may be able to put you in touch with students with similar backgrounds.Hope this helps!
Official Solution:



A citizens group in State X is pushing legislation to have mobile phone use banned during driving. Leaders of the group are concerned that talking and text messaging while operating a motor vehicle has led to many injuries and to damage of state property.



EACH of the following is a piece of evidence the group could use in support of its position EXCEPT



Situation

Reasoning

Which is

a piece of evidence that would be useful to the group?

has led to many injuries

A. CORRECT.

how

A. statistics from mobile companies on how many mobile phones are tracked by GPS to be moving faster than a speed of 30 km per hour while on call.B. police accident reports stating that mobile phone use was a cause of a collisionC. scientific studies stating the effect of divided attention on motor vehicle safetyD. pamphlets from other citizens groups urging drivers to turn off mobile phones in trafficE. testimonials from drivers who have been injured in accidents involving mobile phone use: A citizens group wants to legally ban mobile phone use while driving because it is dangerous.notThe citizens groups claim is that mobile phone useand that it has damaged state property. Any evidence that directly supports this claim would be useful. To answer this question, examine each potential piece of evidence and determine its usefulness.This information would be useful in speculating how many drivers are likely to be injured if mobile phone use is not banned. If a mobile phone is tracked moving at a speed more than 30 km/ hour while on call, it is highly likely that the call is made while driving. If the statistics show that there are many mobile phones tracked to be moving more than 30 km/hour while on call, then it is likely that there are many drivers who are prone to an accident caused by using mobile phones while driving.One may argue that such tracking can be because of calling while in trains or some other mode of transport that moves faster than 30 km / hour, but the question is what COULD be an evidence - option A could be an evidence because such tracking COULD be for mobile phones used for calling by car drivers.B. Police accident reports would directly confirm that mobile phone use has resulted  and is likely to continue to result  in accidents.C. This information provides insight intomobile phone use can cause motor vehicle accidents.D. The fact that other groups are supporting does not provide a reason that phones should be banned. A wrong answer should indicate why it could be harmful to allow the use of mobile while driving. Option D does not provide any such reason whereas all the other options do.Compare this with the following statement: Opting for the USA rather than Germany as a destination to study MBA is wise. If someone tries to give evidence in support of the above, stating something like "Most students with high GMAT scores go to the USA", then the evidence is not solid. It just indicates someone else's opinion. However if someone states that "Getting a post-MBA job is easier in the USA than in Germany" (OR even, " Many jobs are available in the USA, but not in Germany", which is more analogical to option A), then that would be solid evidence.E. Testimonials would provide valuable insight into how mobile phones can cause motor vehicle accidents.Answer: D_________________
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The elements presented on this Website, including, without limitation, the Proprietary Information, are subject to modification without notice and are made available without any kind of guarantee, whether express or tacit, and cannot give rise to any rights to compensation. The information and images contained on this Website, including, without limitation, the Proprietary Information, are protected by copyright.

4.2 License and Use Restrictions

Subject to the terms and conditions of these Terms of Use, you are hereby granted a limited, non-exclusive right to use the Proprietary Information on this Website in the normal course of your using our services, provided that you shall in no event use any Proprietary Information in transmission of spam, mass e-mailings, chain letters, junk mail or any other type of unsolicited solicitation, whether electronic or otherwise. GMAT Club will retain ownership of its intellectual property rights, including rights in and to the Proprietary Information, and you do not obtain any rights therein by virtue of these Terms of Use or otherwise, except as expressly set forth in these Terms of Use.

Without the express written consent of GMAT Club, none of the contents of this Website, including, without limitation, the Proprietary Information, may be copied, reproduced, published, downloaded, posted, transmitted or distributed in any manner, except in the case of a simple recording of documents on your personal computer for your own use, in which case you shall ensure that the indications of ownership are kept intact. Modification of the contents or their use with another purpose constitutes an infringement of our property rights. It is forbidden to use these contents on another Website or in a computer network environment.



4.3 Certain Disclosures

Trademarks, service marks, trade names, product names, logos, designs, titles, and words or phrases used on this Website are owned by or licensed by GMAT Club, or to GMAT Club by its licensors or other entities. All page headers, custom graphics, button icons and scripts are trademarks, trade dress or copyrights of GMAT Club. All other trademarks, trade names, copyrights and the like that appear on this Website are the property of their respective owners. You may not use any of these trademarks, trade dress, copyrights or trade names without express permission from the appropriate party.

By making a submission to this website, you are promising that you either wrote the content yourself, obtained explicit permission of the copyright holder, or copied it from a public domain or similar free resource. If you are not sure about the source of the content in question, do not submit it. Please note that due to a large number of submissions, GMAT Club cannot review all of them. However, reported content that violates copyrights or is illegal (for example, violates non-disclosure agreements) will be removed. Reports can be sent to: support@gmatclub.com

GMAT is a registered trademark of the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC). GMAT Club's website has not been reviewed or endorsed by GMAC.

5. PROHIBITED CONDUCT; NONDISCLOSURE

5.1 In using this Website, you agree that you will not: (i) infringe any patent, trademark, trade secret, copyright, right of publicity or other right of any party; (ii) defame, abuse, harass or stalk any individual, or disrupt or interfere with the security or use of this Website or any websites linked to it; (iii) interfere with or damage this Website, including, without limitation, through the use of viruses, cancel bots, Trojan horses, harmful code, flood pings, denial of service attacks, packet or IP spoofing, forged routing or electronic mail address information or similar methods or technology; (iv) attempt to use another users account, impersonate another person or entity, misrepresent your affiliation with a person or entity, including (without limitation) GMAT Club, or create or use a false identity; (v) attempt to obtain unauthorized access to this Website or portions thereof that are restricted from general access; (vi) engage, directly or indirectly, in transmission of spam, mass e-mailings, chain letters, junk mail or any other type of unsolicited solicitation, whether electronic or otherwise; (vii) collect, manually or through an automatic process, information about other users without their express consent or other information relating to this Website; (viii) use any meta tags or any other hidden text utilizing the GMAT Club name, trademarks, or product names; (ix) advertise, offer to sell, or sell any goods or services, except as expressly permitted by GMAT Club; (x) engage in any activity that interferes with any third partys ability to use or enjoy this Website; or (xi) assist any third party in engaging in any activity prohibited by these Terms of Use.

5.2 You agree not to disclose or otherwise make the Proprietary Information available to any person other than your employees, if applicable, required to have such knowledge in the normal course of your business and who are authorized to access the Website and Proprietary Information hereunder. You expressly agree not to, directly or indirectly: (i) disclose, publish, transfer, distribute or disseminate, or cause or permit to be disclosed, published, transferred, distributed or disseminated, the Proprietary Information to any third party; (ii) use the Proprietary Information in any manner, as a basis for providing any product or service (a Competitive Product or Service) or otherwise, which competes with any products or services of GMAT Club or its affiliates, or otherwise use the Proprietary Information to compete with GMAT Club or its affiliates; or (iii) use the Proprietary Information to provide data or competitive information to any provider of any Competitive Product or Service or affiliate thereof.

6. SITE POSTINGS

6.1 General; Acknowledgments



This Website may offer opportunities for you to post content that may be made available to the public. When you make a posting to the Website or use any other Website services (Site Features), you will be subject to any additional guidelines or rules applicable to such Site Features. Any such additional guidelines or rules are hereby incorporated in these Terms of Use by reference. GMAT Club reserves the right to change, suspend or discontinue any Site Features at any time, or to limit or restrict your access to certain Site Features at any time, without notice to you and in its sole discretion.



If you submit any postings, you are acknowledging that any such Posting (i) is not confidential or proprietary to you or any other person or entity, and does not create any confidential, fiduciary, contractually implied or other relationship between you and GMAT Club or its agents and representatives other than as expressly set forth in these Terms of Use and (ii) may be used by GMAT Club for any purpose, including for promotional or advertising purposes, in accordance with our Privacy Policy. GMAT Club reserves the right to remove any content posted on our Website at any time for any reason and to organize topical forums in order to best serve the majority of our visitors and members. Forum posts may be modified/edited/moved/merged/repurposed or compiled into a collection to provide value to the community.

You are prohibited from submitting any posting that: (i) restricts or inhibits any other user from using and enjoying this Website or any of GMAT Clubs other websites (the Sites); (ii) is unlawful, threatening, abusive, libelous, defamatory, obscene, vulgar, offensive, pornographic, profane, sexually explicit or indecent; (iii) constitutes or encourages conduct that would constitute a criminal offense, gives rise to civil liability or otherwise violates any local, state, national or international law; (iv) violates, plagiarizes or infringes the rights of third parties including, without limitation, copyright, trademark, patent, rights of privacy or publicity or any other proprietary right; (v) contains a virus or other harmful component; or (vi) constitutes or contains false or misleading statements of fact.

You understand that when using the Website, you will be exposed to postings from a variety of sources, and that GMAT Club is not responsible for the accuracy, usefulness, safety, or intellectual property rights of or relating to such Postings. You further understand and acknowledge that you may be exposed to postings that are inaccurate, offensive, indecent, or objectionable, and you agree to waive, and hereby do waive, any legal or equitable rights or remedies you have or may have against GMAT Club with respect thereto. GMAT Club is not responsible for any posting to our Website. Although GMAT Club may monitor and/or review any Posting, GMAT Club is not obligated to do so and GMAT Club assumes no liability or obligation with respect to any Posting.

While members own the content and interest in their posts, posting on the Website grants GMAT Club and its subsidiaries the right to reproduce the content in any medium without notification or compensation. Members' posts cannot be printed or duplicated in any way by a third party without the consent of the authors. Once you submit a post, GMAT Club has no obligation to remove or edit that post's content.

You acknowledge that any posting may be accessed by any third party, and GMAT Club assumes no liability for such access. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, in the event that you use the Site Features to exchange information with third parties, you acknowledge that GMAT Club does not control or guarantee the legality, authenticity, accuracy or quality of any information posted by a third party on our Website or the use by such third party of any such information. You are solely responsible for your interactions with other users of the Website and any content that you post. GMAT Club will not be liable for any damage or harm resulting from any content or your interactions with other users of the Website. GMAT Club is not responsible for monitoring any exchange of information between you and any third party and you release us from claims, demands and damages of every kind and nature, known or unknown, arising out of or in any way connected with any exchange of information between you and any third party or any dispute you may have with any third party. GMAT Club recommends that you do not include any personally identifiable information as part of any Posting.

6.2 License; Postings

By submitting a posting, you are granting GMAT Club a perpetual, worldwide, royalty-free, non-exclusive, sublicensable and irrevocable right and license to use, copy, reproduce, prepare derivative works based upon, distribute, perform and display such information in whole or in part, in any form, media or technology known or hereafter developed as long as such use is consistent with our Privacy Policy. You hereby irrevocably waive any claims based on moral rights or similar theories, if any.

You acknowledge and agree that GMAT Club may preserve any communication by You with GMAT Club through the Website or any service offered on or through the Website, and may disclose such communications when required by law or if GMAT Club deems that such preservation or disclosure is reasonably necessary to: (1) comply with legal process; (2) enforce these Terms of Use; (3) respond to a claim that the communication, or contents therein, violates the rights of others; or (4) protect the rights, property or personal safety of GMAT Club and its employees, users of or visitors to the Website, and/or the public.

You acknowledge that GMAT Club does not pre-screen postings, but that GMAT Club and its designees have the right (but not the obligation) in their sole discretion to block or restrict access to or the availability of, or to edit or disable, any posting that is available via the Website. By way of example and without limiting the foregoing, GMAT Club and its designees may edit or disable, or restrict access to or the availability of, any posting that (i) violates the terms of these Terms of Use; (ii) constitutes illegal, obscene, lewd, lascivious, filthy, excessively violent, harassing, offensive, objectionable or otherwise inappropriate material; or (iii) is required to be reviewed, monitored, edited or deleted by any court order, or in any governmental, administrative or judicial proceeding. You must evaluate and bear all risks associated with the use of any postings, including any reliance on the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of such postings and any costs associated with your posting, such as data and messages rates of your provider that may apply. GMAT Club assumes no liability for use of any posting by any third party.

GMAT Club does not allow posting of real GMAT questions - all such posts will be removed by moderators and disciplinary actions will be taken against offenders

6.3 Use of Posted Content

Subject to the terms of these Terms of Use, you may access postings solely (i) for your information and personal use and (ii) as intended through the normal functionality of the Website.



Postings are made available to you for your information and personal use solely as intended through the normal functionality of the Website. Postings are made available "as is", and may not be used, copied, reproduced, distributed, transmitted, broadcast, displayed, sold, licensed, downloaded, or otherwise exploited in any manner not intended by the normal functionality of the Website or otherwise as prohibited under these Terms of Use.

6.4 Digital Millennium Copyright Notice and Other Reports of Infringement:

Pursuant to 17 U.S.C.  512(c)(2) (Digital Millennium Copyright Act of 1998), You may contact GMAT Club to report the infringement of any intellectual property right through GMAT Clubs designated agent. If you believe that your work has been used in a way that constitutes copyright infringement, please send a written communication to the DMCA Designated Agent (detailed below) that contains the following:

(a) a description of the work;

(b) a description of the location of the work on the Website, including the URL;

(c) your first and last name, mailing address, email address, and telephone number and fax;

(d) a statement by you that you belief in good faith that the disputed use is unauthorized under current law and not authorized by you;

(e) a statement by you that you believe, under penalty of perjury, that your allegations are true and that you are the copyright owner or acting on behalf of the copyright owner; and

(f) your physical or electronic signature.

When we receive a Notification of Alleged Copyright Infringement, we will remove or disable access to the allegedly infringing material and promptly notify the alleged infringer. Further, we will advise the alleged infringer regarding the DMCA Counter Notification procedures discussed below.

Counter Notification:

If you believe the material you submitted was mistakenly removed from the Website, you may submit a Counter Notification to the Designated Agent listed below pursuant to 17 U.S.C.  512(g)(2) and (3). The Counter Notification must include:

(a) identification of the material that was removed or disabled due to mistake or misidentification and the location where the material appeared before it was removed or disabled;

(b) a statement that you consent to the jurisdiction of the federal District Court in which your mailing address is located, or if your mailing address is located outside of the United States, you consent to the jurisdiction of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington;

(c) a statement that you will accept service of process from the party that filed the Notification of Alleged Copyright Infringement or the party's agent;

(d) your name, mailing address, email address, and telephone number;

(e) a statement that you have a good faith belief, under penalty of perjury, that the material in question was removed or disabled due to a mistake or misidentification; and

(f) your physical or electronic signature.

If you comply with the Counter Notification procedures identified above, GMAT Club will restore your removed or disabled material after 10 business days but no later than 14 business days from the date GMAT Club receives the Counter Notification, unless GMAT Club first receives notice from the entity that submitted the Notification of Alleged Copyright Infringement that such entity has filed an action seeking a court order to restrain your activity related to the removed or disabled material.

Registered Agent:

GMAT Club

ATTN: Kirsti Kinkle

PO Box 831

Kirkland, WA 98083

Phone/Fax: (415) 593-7552 or at support@gmatclub.com

7. SERVICES AND FEES

7.1 General

When you use certain Site Features accessed from the Website, additional terms and conditions provided with such Site Features or Software may apply, and you are required to follow those terms and conditions, which are incorporated by reference into these Terms of Use. In addition, you may be required to register and meet certain eligibility requirements, including but not limited to providing certain information, including your name, email address and other required information, including bank or credit card information and authorizations, or other necessary items, subject to the approval of GMAT Club. GMAT Club, in its sole discretion, may charge fees for access to our Website. When you post content on our Website, use other Site Features that have a fee you will have an opportunity to review and accept the fees that you will be charged based your access to the Website services and Site Features, which fees and terms and conditions may change from time to time in GMAT Clubs sole discretion unless otherwise agreed by you and GMAT Club in writing.

We may choose to temporarily change the fees for our services for promotional events or new Site Features, and such changes are effective when we post the temporary promotional event or new Site Features on the Website or as we otherwise agree with you in writing. Unless otherwise stated, all fees are quoted in U.S. Dollars. You are responsible for paying all fees and applicable taxes associated with the services in a timely manner with a valid payment method (Payment Method). If your Payment Method fails or is past due, we collect fees owed using other collection methods, including retaining collection agencies and legal counsel, and you agree to reimburse us for any expense associated with such collection methods.

7.2 Cancellation Policy

Requests for refunds and cancellations will be honored within 30 days of purchase in GMAT Clubs discretion. Please allow one week for processing of the refund. Notifications will be accepted via email available on the Contact Us page. We reserve the right to levy a $9.95 charge to cover any subsequent administrative expenses.

7.3 GMAT Club Tests

GMAT Club tests are intended for personal use and access may not be shared, sold, or bartered. If you would like to use GMAT Club tests for tutoring or instruction, please contact us for bulk pricing. We reserve the right to terminate access and suspend subscription for users we suspect are in violation this policy.

7.4 Premium Membership Terms and Conditions

Both You and GMAT Club have the right to terminate any premium membership for any reason, including the ending of services that are already underway. No refunds shall be offered, where a service is deemed to have begun and is, for all intents and purposes, underway.

8. HYPERLINKS

8.1 Hyperlinks to this Website

In order to respect the integrity of the contents of this Website and avoid creating confusion amongst Internet users regarding the origin of the aforementioned contents, framing links, which enable a page from this Website to appear in a frame within the page of the Website visited by the user, are forbidden.

In any event, links from websites containing immoral, violent, pornographic or pedophilic material, or websites that undermine human dignity or that are intended to display or sell objects, substances and/or works that are banned or illicit, are strictly forbidden.

Under no circumstances shall a hyperlink to this Website from the website of a third party imply co-operation between GMAT Club and such third-party website. GMAT Club has no control over third-party websites and therefore assumes no responsibility with respect to contents, products, services, information, hardware or software of websites containing a hyperlink to this Website.

8.2 Hyperlinks to Third-Party Websites

This Website may contain links to the websites of GMAT Club partners or to the websites of third party companies. GMAT Club does not own and has no control over these websites and therefore assumes no responsibility with respect to the availability of these websites, their content, advertising material, and the products or services available at or through these websites. GMAT Club does not endorse any of these hyperlinked websites but provides hyperlinks to such websites only as a convenience. GMAT Club accepts no liability for any direct or indirect damage that may result from a user's visit to the partner or third-party websites, or from the use of the contents and services of these websites by the user.



You acknowledge that GMAT Club shall not be responsible or liable for the content or conduct of, associated with, or related to any hyperlinked website or advertiser site, and, accordingly, your access and use of any hyperlinked website or advertiser site shall be solely at your own risk. If you have any questions or concerns regarding any hyperlinked website or advertiser site, you should review any terms and conditions and privacy policy maintained by that hyperlinked website or advertiser site, or contact that hyperlinked websites or advertiser sites website administrator. GMAT Club will not accept any responsibility for any loss or damage in whatever manner, howsoever caused, resulting from your disclosure to third parties of personal information.

9. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES AND INDEMNIFICATION

You represent, warrant and covenant to GMAT Club that: (i) you have the full power and authority to enter into and perform your obligations under these Terms of Use; (ii) your assent to and performance of your obligations under these Terms of Use do not constitute a breach of or conflict with any other agreement or arrangement by which you are bound, or any applicable laws, regulations or rules; (iii) you are age 18 or over, able to form a legally binding contract, and these Terms of Use constitute legal, valid and binding obligations on you, enforceable in accordance with their terms and conditions; (iv) you will not infringe the patent, copyright, trademark, trade secret, right of publicity or other intellectual property or proprietary right of GMAT Club or any third party in your use of the Website; and (v) you will comply with all applicable laws, rules and regulations in your use of the Website, including these Terms of Use.



You further represent, warrant and covenant to GMAT Club that: (a)you are not, and shall not be during the period of your use of the Website, a supplier of any Competitive Product or Service, nor are you accessing the website, Software, and/or Proprietary Information, directly or indirectly, for the purpose of providing data or competitive information to a supplier of any Competitive Product or Service or any affiliate thereof or otherwise competing with GMAT Club or its affiliates; and (b) you have provided true and accurate information as to your actual identity.

You agree to indemnify and hold GMAT Club and its employees, representatives, agents, attorneys, affiliates, directors, officers, members, managers and shareholders (Indemnified Parties) harmless from any and all damages, losses, costs liabilities or expenses (including without limitation, attorneys fees and costs), whether incurred in connection with a third party claim against any of the Indemnified Parties or directly by the Indemnified Parties, arising out of or related to (i) facts or circumstances that would constitute a breach by you of any provision of these Terms of Use or (ii) your use of this Website and/or the Proprietary Information. If you are obligated to provide indemnification pursuant to this provision, GMAT Club may, in its sole and absolute discretion, control the disposition of any third party claim at your sole cost and expense. Without limiting the foregoing, you may not settle, compromise or in any other manner dispose of any third party claim without the consent of GMAT Club.

10. DISCLAIMERS, EXCLUSIONS AND LIMITATIONS

10.1 Disclaimer of Warranties



THE WEBSITE AND ANY PROPRIETARY INFORMATION IS PROVIDED ON AN AS IS AND AS AVAILABLE BASIS WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. WITHOUT LIMITING THE FOREGOING PROVISIONS, YOU ASSUME SOLE RESPONSIBILITY FOR SELECTING THE WEBSITE, AND/OR PROPRIETARY INFORMATION TO ACHIEVE YOUR INTENDED RESULTS AND SOLE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE USE OF, AND RESULTS OBTAINED FROM THE WEBSITE AND/OR THE PROPRIETARY INFORMATION. ANY CONTENT DOWNLOADED FROM OR ACCESSED THROUGH THE WEBSITE OR OTHERWISE OBTAINED THROUGH THE USE OF THE WEBSITE IS DOWNLOADED AT YOUR OWN RISK AND YOU WILL BE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DAMAGE TO YOUR COMPUTER SYSTEM OR LOSS OF DATA THAT RESULTS FROM SUCH DOWNLOAD. WITHOUT LIMITING THE FOREGOING PROVISIONS, GMAT CLUB MAKES NO WARRANTY THAT THE WEBSITE AND/OR THE PROPRIETARY INFORMATION OR ITS USE WILL BE ERROR-FREE, SECURE, VIRUS FREE, OR FREE FROM INTERRUPTIONS, DEFECTS OR OTHER FAILURES OR HARMFUL COMPONENTS OR THAT THE WEBSITE AND/OR THE PROPRIETARY INFORMATION WILL SATISFY YOUR SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS OR BE COMPATIBLE WITH YOUR EQUIPMENT OR OTHER HARDWARE, SOFTWARE OR BROWSER CONFIGURATION OR THAT INACCURACIES OR ERRORS WILL BE CORRECTED. TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, GMAT CLUB DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES AND CONDITIONS, EITHER EXPRESS, IMPLIED, OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, LACK OF VIRUSES, ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF RESPONSES, RESULTS, AND WORKMANLIKE EFFORT OR LACK OF NEGLIGENCE, ALL WITH REGARD TO THE WEBSITE, AND/OR THE PROPRIETARY INFORMATION. THERE IS NO WARRANTY OR CONDITION OF TITLE, QUIET ENJOYMENT, QUIET POSSESSION, CORRESPONDENCE TO DESCRIPTION, OR NON-INFRINGEMENT WITH REGARD TO THE WEBSITE AND/OR THE PROPRIETARY INFORMATION. THE ENTIRE RISK OF THE QUALITY OF OR ARISING OUT OF USE OR PERFORMANCE OF THE WEBSITE AND/OR THE PROPRIETARY INFORMATION, IF ANY, REMAINS SOLELY WITH YOU. SOME STATES AND JURISDICTIONS DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON IMPLIED WARRANTIES, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. THE FOREGOING PROVISIONS SHALL BE ENFORCEABLE TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW.



GMAT CLUB DOES NOT WARRANT, ENDORSE, GUARANTEE, OR ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY PRODUCT OR SERVICE ADVERTISED OR OFFERED BY A THIRD PARTY THROUGH THE WEBSITE OR ANY HYPERLINKED WEBSITE OR SERVICE, OR FEATURED IN ANY ADVERTISING AND GMATCLUB WILL NOT BE A PARTY TO, OR IN ANY WAY MONITOR, ANY TRANSACTION BETWEEN YOU AND THIRD-PARTY PROVIDERS OF PRODUCTS OR SERVICES.

GMAT Club reserves the right to modify or correct the contents of its Website at any time, without notice. GMAT Club shall not be liable in the event of contamination of your computer equipment as a result of virus propagation or other computer infections. You are responsible for taking all appropriate measures to protect your own data and software, including measures to protect your data and software from contamination by any viruses circulating via the Internet.

10.2 Exclusion of Damages

UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES AND UNDER NO LEGAL THEORY, WHETHER IN TORT, CONTRACT, OR OTHERWISE, SHALL GMAT CLUB, ITS EMPLOYEES, SUPPLIERS OR THE THIRD PARTIES MENTIONED ON ITS WEBSITE BE LIABLE TO YOU OR TO ANY OTHER PERSON OR ENTITY FOR ANY DAMAGES WHATSOEVER, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OF ANY CHARACTER WHATSOEVER (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS, LOSS OF GOODWILL, LOSS OF CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION, LOSS OF DATA, USER INFORMATION OR OTHER INFORMATION, BUSINESS INTERRUPTION, WORK STOPPAGE, COMPUTER FAILURE OR MALFUNCTION, PERSONAL INJURY, LOSS OF PRIVACY, FAILURE TO MEET ANY DUTY, INCLUDING A DUTY OF GOOD FAITH OR OF REASONABLE CARE, NEGLIGENCE, OR ANY OTHER PECUNIARY OR OTHER LOSS WHATSOEVER) ARISING OUT OF OR IN ANY WAY RELATED TO THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE THE WEBSITE, THE PROPRIETARY INFORMATION, OR OTHERWISE UNDER OR IN CONNECTION WITH ANY PROVISION OF THESE TERMS OF USE, EVEN IN THE EVENT OF FAULT, TORT (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE AND GROSS NEGLIGENCE), STRICT LIABILITY, BREACH OF CONTRACT, OR BREACH OF WARRANTY BY GMAT CLUB, ITS EMPLOYEES, SUPPLIERS OR THE THIRD PARTIES MENTIONED ON ITS WEBSITE, AND EVEN IF YOU HAVE BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. SOME STATES AND JURISDICTIONS DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THIS LIMITATION AND EXCLUSION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. THE FOREGOING PROVISIONS SHALL BE ENFORCEABLE TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW.

11. TERMINATION AND OTHER RIGHTS OF GMATCLUB

GMAT Club may, in its sole discretion and without any liability, change, modify, suspend, make improvements to or discontinue any aspect of the Website, temporarily or permanently, at any time without prior notice.

12. JURISDICTION; APPLICABLE LAW; DISPUTE RESOLUTION



These Terms of Use shall be governed, construed and applied in all respects by the laws of the State of Washington, without regard to any provision governing conflicts of law. Any disputes arising out of, relating to, or connected with these Terms of Use or your use of this Website shall be brought exclusively before the federal or state courts serving King County, Washington. The use of this Website implies your express consent to the personal jurisdiction and venue of such courts.

You acknowledge and agree that, regardless of any statute or law to the contrary, any claim or cause of action you may have arising out of, relating to, or connected with your use of the Website must be filed within one calendar year after such claim or cause of action arises, or forever be barred.

If GMAT Club takes legal action against You as a result of Your violation of these Terms of Use, GMAT Club will be entitled to recover from You, and You agree to pay, all reasonable attorneys; fees and costs of such action, in addition to any other relief granted to GMAT Club.

13. WAIVER OF CLASS ACTION RIGHTS; LIMITATION OF ACTIONS

By entering into these Terms of Use, you hereby irrevocably waive any right you may have to join claims with those of others in the form of a class action or similar procedural device. Any claims arising out of, relating to, or connected with these Terms of Use or your use of the Website must be asserted individually.

14. CORRESPONDENCE WITH GMAT CLUB AND USERS

By using this Website, You consent to receive electronic communications from GMAT Club, including by email or by a Website posting, and further agree that all such communications satisfy any legal or other requirement that such communication be in writing. You further consent to GMAT Club providing You with any notice required by these Terms of Use or regarding the Website by such electronic communications. Electronic notice shall be deemed given if GMAT Club sends it to the email address You provide with Your user account, regardless if You keep such email address updated.

To correspond with GMAT Club by e-mail, Internet users must use the email address provided herein. Our replies to e-mails may not be equated to or considered proof of advertising, promotional or commercial activity in the destination country of these replies.

E-mail messages sent to the GMAT Club Forum user email accounts provide the recipients with the option to opt-out from receiving further messages. All messages sent to the GMAT Club Forum users include an opt-out notice and unsubscribe link in the footer (or in rare cases header) of the message. The opt-out notice instructs users how to opt-out from receiving further messages.

By providing us with your personal information, you consent to our collection, use and disclosure of that information as described in the Privacy Policy. GMAT Club is the owner of the personal information collected on our website. If you do not want your personal information to be collected, used or disclosed in this manner, please do not submit your personal information to us.

If you would prefer to delete your account at GMAT Club Forum completely, you can send an email request to support@gmatclub.com and we will act accordingly.

15. ENTIRE AGREEMENT; SEVERABILITY

These Terms of Use, our Privacy Policy and, to the extent applicable, any member or subscriber agreements, and additional terms and conditions related to Site Features constitute the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the use of the GMAT Club Website, superseding all prior or contemporaneous oral or written agreements or understanding with respect to such subject matter. If any provision of these Terms of Use is held to be unenforceable or invalid in whole or in part, that provision shall be enforced to the maximum extent permissible so as to effect the intent of the parties, and the remaining provisions shall be given full force and effect.

16. OTHER PROVISIONS



GMAT Clubs failure to insist upon or enforce strict performance of any provision of these Terms of Use shall not be construed as a waiver of any provision or right. Neither the course of conduct between the parties nor trade practice shall act to modify any provision of these Terms of Use. GMAT Club may assign its rights and duties under these Terms of Use to any party at any time without notice to you.

17. FOR USER USE ONLY



Except as otherwise specifically set forth herein, the information, including without limitation, Proprietary Information, made available through your use and access of the Website is intended only for you and may contain confidential and/or privileged material. Any review, retransmission, dissemination or other use of, or taking of any action in reliance upon, this information by persons or entities other than you is prohibited.

Privacy Policy:

We, GMAT Club (gmatclub.com), collect information that you choose to disclose, such as your GMAT scores and your email address. We also collect information about you and your use of this Website every time you visit, which may include site traffic statistics, page views, operating system and browser type, and IP addresses. If you are a user of the GMAT Club tests system, we also record your performance, answer choices and time taken on every test question.

The collected information is used to:

Improve the services of this website Analyze the variables statistically (without identifying you) Send email notifications that you have signed up for and requested to be sent to your email address (notifications of Wiki page edits, forum posts, and private messages) Send regular email communications and announcements about new developments at GMAT Club. As directed by you, to send your information to third parties to facilitate the establishment of an account for you with those third parties.

Except as provided herein and in the Terms of Use, GMAT Club will never share, sell, rent or disclose to third parties your personal information without obtaining your permission first (unless ordered by a Court of Law).

GMAT Club may send you service related emails related to your account. If you no longer wish to receive these emails, you may opt out of them by closing your account by going to My Profile, Settings, Close Account.

If you choose to purchase a product from us, we or our third-party payment processors will collect your payment information.

We also use or may use Google Analytics, Google Tag Manager, Google AdWords (Conversion Tracking), Facebook pixel, Facebook, Google Plus, and other social plugins . Some or all of these tools may be used to track information about your behavior on our website depending on your region. For more information or to opt-out, please visit the respective website(s) of these vendors or contact us at support@gmatclub.com.

Occasionally we may employ member information for new unanticipated uses. In such cases we will post the policy changes here and notify you, providing an ability to withdraw your private information.

Information from Integrated Services like Google, Facebook, LinkedIn:

If you decide to register trough or otherwise grant access to a third-party social networking or integrated service (what we call an "Integrated Service") such as YouTube, Google, Facebook or LinkedIn, GMAT Club may also collect Personal Information that is already associated with your Integrated Service account. You may also have the option of sharing additional information with GMAT Club trough an Integrated Service. If you choose to provide such information, during registration or otherwise, you are giving GMAT Club the permission to use, share and store it in a manner consistent with this Privacy Policy.

Facebook Privacy Policy:

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Retail merchants lined up Friday in support of legislation to require collection of sales taxes on purchases made online by Nebraskans.

Supporters of two bills heard by the Legislature's Revenue Committee stressed that their proposals do not represent a new tax since online purchasers who are Nebraskans already are obligated to pay sales taxes under state law.

Nebraska retailers joined Sen. John McCollister of Omaha and Sen. Dan Watermeier of Syracuse in arguing that collection of sales taxes for online purchases is an issue of fundamental fairness since online retailers are competing directly with Nebraska's "brick and mortar businesses" for sales.

The Nebraska Department of Revenue has estimated that the state might collect an estimated $30 million to $40 million annually in increased sales taxes from online sales.

Amazon already has notified the state that it will collect sales taxes from Nebraskans.

A number of retailers told committee members that people come to their businesses and carefully select merchandise they want and then leave and order it online to avoid sales taxes.

"I hear stories about 'almost-customers,'" Coby Mach of the Lincoln Independent Business Association told the committee.

"They try on apparel, pick it out and then buy it online to avoid the tax," Mach said.

"It's an everyday problem," Lincoln jeweler Thomas Wright said.

"Internet sales will continue to grow," he said, while the challenge for the brick-and-mortar retailers in Nebraska will become even more daunting.

"Who's going to pay for the schools and streets?" Wright asked, if local retailers fall behind.

Don Herz, interim finance director for the city of Lincoln, estimated that the city would receive $1.5 million to $2 million in additional annual sales tax revenue if all internet purchasers paid sales taxes.

That, in turn, would reduce pressure on local property taxes, he said.

Sen. Jim Smith of Papillion, chairman of the Revenue Committee, asked Mach if he viewed the legislation as "a tax increase" that ought to be offset in some manner. Mach said he considers it more as "leveling the playing field."

McCollister's LB564 provides that Internet sellers must either collect and remit sales taxes on their transactions with Nebraskans or file a report with the state tax commissioner accounting for sales to Nebraskans while notifying customers about the amount of tax they owe.

LB44, introduced by Watermeier, gives Internet sellers the option of notifying Nebraska purchasers of sales tax owed to the state.

No one testified against the bills, although letters of opposition included a communication from Americans for Prosperity.

The committee adjourned without taking action on the bills.
MOUNT PLEASANT  Promotions Unlimited, a local distributor to independent pharmacies, discharged its last 48 employees and closed Friday, according to former employees.

In all, close to 60 full-time employees in the past two weeks and about 75 since November lost their jobs at Promotions Unlimited, 7601 Durand Ave., former employees said.

Promotions Unlimited was a distributor of many different types of items to independent pharmacies across the country, Puerto Rico, the Bahamas and elsewhere, said Deborah Mazzie, the company tracing specialist. She worked at the company for 26 years and said her partner, Terry York, worked there for 22 years.

Neither was present Friday morning for the last meeting, because Mazzie had been laid off Jan. 13 and York was on medical leave. But others who were there informed them by phone and email, she said. Mazzie said that the owners called all employees into the cafeteria in the morning for a meeting and told them Promotions Unlimited was shutting down immediately and dismissed them.

The employees were also told no one would get paid for the past weeks work, several told Mazzie and/or York.

Years back, Promotions Unlimited had as many as 339 employees, Mazzie said.

The company phone was not a working number Friday afternoon.

Wisconsin Circuit Court online records show one court action filed against Promotions Unlimited in January, six last year, none for 2014 or 2015 but about 70 court actions involving the company from 1996-2013.

Employees widely expected Promotions Unlimited to close within the next few months, Mazzie said.

Vendors were not getting paid, she said, except for the larger ones who required payment in advance. And because some vendors had stopped supplying merchandise, Promotions Unlimited was only able to partially fill some orders from pharmacies.

Legally, the company is known as Roosevelt Capital LLC, doing business as Promotions Unlimited, and was owned by the Ira and Lorraine Greenberg family. They could not be reached for comment Friday.
KENOSHA  The murder suspect who led Racine and Kenosha county authorities on a manhunt for nearly two weeks in 2015 will avoid trial after a surprise plea Friday.

Andrew Obregon pleaded guilty to six charges, including first-degree intentional homicide and attempted homicide. He also pleaded guilty to armed robbery and three counts of fleeing and eluding police.

Obregon, who had faced 32 total charges, was scheduled to go on trial Monday in Kenosha. Instead, a sentencing hearing has been scheduled for April 4, according to court records.

He faces life in prison plus 150 years, officials said.

"Andy Obregon probably won't be coming back on the streets," Kenosha County Sheriff David Beth said at a press conference Friday afternoon. "For the terror that he truly put in Kenosha and Racine county and down into Lake County (Illinois), this seems to be an appropriate sentence for him and we're very thankful this is over."

Reign of terror

Authorities sought Obregon, now 33, for 11 days in October 2015 after he was suspected of killing Tywon Anderson in Kenosha.

Obregon played a cat-and-mouse game with authorities in western Kenosha and Racine counties that involved multiple vehicle thefts, high-speed chases and a robbery of a gas station, police said.

He was finally captured in Winthrop Harbor, Ill., after reportedly seriously injuring a woman in Brighton and stealing her car.

"In a lot of cases, from what I was told later, Andy just felt he was lucky," Beth said. "A lot of times he got away or we didn't catch him, it was because he just flat-out lucked out in what happened."

Obregon was in court for a hearing Thursday and all indications were he would go through with a jury trial next week. More than 100 witnesses were scheduled to appear over the next few weeks in a trial that would have cost taxpayers tens of thousands of dollars.

Obregon's attorney contacted the courts Friday to alert them of the plea, officials said.

"There's a sense of relief that it has come to an end," Kenosha County Detective Jeff Bliss said. "It's a lot of work, but ultimately it ended how we would have liked it to end."

Obregon also confessed to authorities and, over many interviews with detectives, went into detail about how the crimes were committed, Beth said.

"Andy wasn't shy about basically telling what happened," he said. "Most all the different charges he ended up being charged with, he basically confessed to them ... I did picture Andy Obregon pleading at some point, I just didn't know it was going to be today."

Friday's plea deal should help bring closure to the community, many of whom carried guns and lived in fear that Obregon would try breaking into their homes, Beth said. He added that his own family worried Obregon would try to end the manhunt in a "blaze of glory" at Beth's home.

Beth noted he first met Obregon when he was a teenager and knows well his family, which helped the Sheriff's Department as it pursued Obregon, Beth said.

"The one thing that amazes me as we're going through all this is we keep describing him as 'Andy,' " Beth said. "We know him so well that we call him on a first-name basis ... I don't know of any other person that we've ever arrested that we call them by their first name."
RACINE  Police arrested a Racine woman Thursday after she reportdely kicked a hole in the emergency room wall after being taken to the hospital following an alleged drug overdose.

Angela Gattie, 38, of the 1000 block of Main Street, was charged Friday in Racine County Circuit Court with misdemeanor counts of criminal damage to property and disorderly conduct.

According to the criminal complaint:

Paramedics took Gattie to the Ascension All Saints Hospital Thursday evening following an overdose rescue call at about 6:30 p.m. Gattie allegedly made suicidal statements and became belligerent with nursing staff before having to be handcuffed to the bed in the emergency room. That's when Gattie allegedly kicked a hole in the wall.

According to the report, a police evidence technician photographed the damage to the wall following the arrest.

As of Friday evening, Gattie remained in the Racine County Jail, 717 Wisconsin Ave., according to electronic jail records. Gattie's bond was set at $400.

According to court records, Gattie has a history of disorderly conduct convictions dating back to 1999 including a marijuana conviction in 2003 and 2008.

Gattie's next court appearance is scheduled for Feb. 23.
RACINE  SC Johnson and its chairman and CEO, Fisk Johnson, on Saturday announced a combined donation of $150 million to Cornell University, the largest gift ever to the Ithaca, N.Y.-based school and the second-largest to name a college of business.

The donation will support the newly named Cornell SC Johnson College of Business, which includes the Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, the School of Hotel Administration, and the Samuel Curtis Johnson Graduate School of Management.

With the newly combined College of Business and the new tech campus in New York City, Cornell is at an important inflection point, said Fisk Johnson. It is my hope that this gift will give the business program at Cornell significant new impetus for growth, while enhancing its three individual schools and the qualities that make each exceptional.

While the naming of the school by Cornell is an honor, this isnt about me or my family, Johnson continued. Its about Cornells future as the countrys top business school, and the success of the three highly respected schools that comprise it.

The gift includes a $50 million challenge grant that will build the colleges endowment for faculty, students and programs. The challenge is expected to raise an additional $150 million. Combined with the gift by SC Johnson and Fisk Johnson, the challenge will bring the full impact to $300 million, which will bolster the colleges endowment.

Johnson ties to Cornell

Cornell has been part of my family for more than a century, Johnson said. In 1918, my great-grandfather dispatched my grandfather to Cornell after one of the companys products wreaked havoc on the Model T radiators it was designed to protect. So, our very first graduate chemist, my grandfather, attended Cornell, and today Cornell has one of the top business schools where the company regularly recruits many talented graduates.

Another element of the donation is the creation of the SC Johnson Scholars Program. Undergraduate students chosen from the Dyson and Hotel schools will have the opportunity to participate in various events hosted by the company, including summer internships.

With this gift, we can increase Cornells competitiveness for top students and fund new interdisciplinary research initiatives in areas such as sustainability and technology, said Hunter Rawlings, interim president of Cornell. It provides significant and permanent resources for all faculty, students and programs in the College, while supporting the unique strengths and legacies of its individual schools. It is truly a transformative opportunity.

The Johnson family has been committed to Cornell and its mission for generations, the company said. Olaf Brauner, father-in-law of Fisk Johnsons grandfather H.F. Johnson Jr., began teaching there in 1896 and founded the Department of Art where he was a professor for more than 40 years. H.F. earned his degree in 1922. His son and daughter-in-law, Sam and Gene Johnson, both graduated from Cornell in the early 1950s. All four of their children attended Cornell, including Curt Johnson, Helen Johnson-Leipold, Fisk Johnson and Winnie Johnson Marquart.

Over the years, the Johnson family has donated repeatedly to the university, including:

The Samuel Curtis Johnson Graduate School of Management

The Imogene Powers Johnson Center for Birds and Biodiversity

The Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art

Herbert Fisk Johnson Professorship of Industrial Chemistry

Herbert Fisk Johnson Professorship of Urology

Imogene Powers Johnson Senior Scientist

Robert G. Engel Associate Dean and Director of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs

Samuel C. Johnson Chair in Sustainable Global Enterprise in the Johnson School

The naming gift for the Johnson Graduate School of Management has delivered $100 million to date. When given in 1984, it was the largest ever from individuals to a business school.

Legacy of philanthropy

Since 1937, SC Johnson has designated 5 percent of pretax dollars for philanthropy. The company is known for its commitment to health, environment, economic development and education. Notably, last year, the company announced a donation of at least $15 million to help protect children and pregnant women against mosquito-borne diseases like Zika.

Education has always been a priority for the company, the company said in a news release. To name a few:

$12.3 million to create 21st Century Preparatory School, a K-8 charter school focused on economically disadvantaged children in Racine. Last year, this school earned a state report card rating 20 points higher than that received by the Racine Unified School District.

$15 million in matched donations to educational institutions by the company and SC Johnson people in the last 20 years.

$10 million in scholarships for SC Johnson people and their families since 1959.

$3.5 million to Gateway Technical College for technical certificate boot camps and other initiatives for chronically unemployed people.
The New Year, which officially starts on Saturday, is Chinas primary annual holiday and is traditionally marked by riotous displays of fireworks and countless firecrackers, Joinfo.com reports with reference to Al Jazeera.

According to the Chinese zodiac, people born in the Year of the Rooster are brave, responsible and punctual.

Millions are expected to attend the festival across the world over the next two weeks, in one of the largest celebrations of the event outside of Asia.

Thais bring offerings and pray for good fortune to mark the Lunar New Year at a temple in Bangkok. Photo by Rungroj Yongrit/EPA:

Street decorated with Chinese lamps to celebrate the Lunar New Year in Yangon, Myanmar. Photo Soe Zeya Tun/Reuters:

Filipino Chinese students in rooster hats gesture after tossing coins to a Prosperity Tree display, which is believed to bring good luck and fortune, in advance of the Lunar New Year celebration Binondo, Philippines. Photo: Romeo Ranoco/Reuters:

Men perform a dragon and lion dance before the Chinese Lunar New Year in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Photo: Samrang Pring/Reuters:

People pray with incense sticks at a temple as they celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year in Suining, China. Photo: Reuters:

Zoo owner Manny Tangco shows different kinds of roosters to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year at Malabon Zoo, Philippines. Photo: Ezra Acayan/Reuters:

A woman takes pictures of firework on the eve of the Chinese Lunar New Year in Lianyungang, China, Reuters:

Filipino Chinese students play with Lion dancers before the Lunar New Year celebration in Binondo, Philippines. Photo: Romeo Ranoco/Reuters:

A worker prepares decorations outside a mall in Beijing, China. Photo: Ng Han Guan/AP photo:
Chris Cillizza

Chris Cillizza is the managing editor of PostPolitics and he writes "The Fix," a politics blog for The Washington Post. He also covers the White House for the newspaper and website. Chris has appeared as a guest on NBC, CBS, ABC, MSNBC, Fox News Channel and CNN to talk politics. He lives in Virginia with his wife and sons.
Morocco has sent an emergency humanitarian assistance to hundreds of sub-Saharan African nationals deported by Algerian authorities to Niger in violation of international humanitarian laws and conventions.

As soon as King Mohammed VI heard the news of the sufferings and hardships of the Africans expelled to Niger, he gave directives to airlift emergency aid to alleviate their anguish and distress.

A Moroccan military plane loaded with humanitarian assistance touched down Friday at the airport of Agadez. The plane of the Moroccan royal air force, to be followed by other humanitarian flights, delivered to Nigerian authorities 15 tons of foodstuff and 20 other tons including tents and blankets.

Morocco has pledged to send 116 tons of humanitarian assistance to Niger, a move that shows the North African Kingdoms solidarity with African countries and peoples in times of extreme urgency and needs.

This humanitarian aid will help Nigerien authorities cope with unprecedented waves of Africans in desperate situation rebuffed by Algeria.

Several international human rights NGOs have denounced the Algerian inhumane treatment of Sub-Saharans and urged Algiers to honor its international humanitarian commitment, particularly the 1951 Geneva Convention.

Algerian authorities arrested more than 1400 sub-Saharan migrants in Algiers and bused them to the desert city of Tamanrasset, wherefrom they were deported to Niger.

The deported migrants include children, pregnant women, sick people, asylum-seekers, refugees and even documented migrants.
Visiting King Abdullah II of Jordan discussed with President Putin on Wednesday in Moscow the developments in the Middle East presently marred by terrorism and extremist groups.

Abdullah said Amman recognizes Russias crucial role in solving the Syrian conflict and many other regional issues. Russia together with Iran and Turkey spearheaded indirect talks in Astana, Kazakhstan, between the warring Syrian parties, but no tangible results were reached.

King Abdullah II said Jordan supports the settlement process as he voiced appreciation for Moscows role while hoping that the Syrians will have a common inclusive future.

President Putin was grateful for Ammans support. He said the talks are developing on the basis of a very important decision that has been achieved such as the cessation of hostilities between the armed rebel groups and pro-Assad forces.

King Abdullah II thinks Russias approach in ending the crisis in the Middle East is credible, although it is not being welcomed by some countries. He reaffirmed that Jordan and Russia are bounded by a strong friendship and have a common vision, which will contribute to stability and the normalization of the situation in the region.

Russias intervention in Syria has helped President Assad to push back armed groups and take over significant strong rebel-held positions.

The Astana meeting is considered by President Putin as a good basis for continuing the upcoming talks in Geneva under the auspices of the United Nations early next month. The Syrian war has been going on for more than six years and efforts have recently been intensified to end it.
Moroccan security services have foiled this Friday another terror plot with the arrest of a jihadist cell linked to the Islamic extremist group ISIS. The seven-member cell was active in several Moroccan cities including El Jadida, Sale, El Gara, the rural commune of Boulaaouane and the Maatallah village in the province of Taza, Eastern Morocco.

During the police raid operation, several firearms were confiscated including a machine gun, 7 hand guns, a large quantity of ammunition, 4 large-size knives, two telecom apparatuses, military pants, chemical materials and suspicious liquids, says the Moroccan Interior Ministry in a statement.

Two waistcoats with explosive belts were seized, says the Ministry, noting that the captured jihadists were planning to recruit young people and incite them to carry out terrorist acts to undermine the North African Kingdoms stability.

Moroccan authorities are waging tireless war against Islamist extremists and fanatics. As the international coalition intensified its airstrikes against the terrorists in Iraq and Syria, the extremist group started moving to North Africa and particularly to Libya where the jihadists have enhanced their influence and presence.

Neighboring Tunisia and Egypt have already suffered numerous deadly attacks by militants of the Islamic State.

Morocco has worked out a comprehensive counterterrorism strategy that includes vigilant security measures, regional and international cooperation, and counter-radicalization policies.

The North African country has placed counterterrorism at the top of its priorities following the Casablanca terror attacks in 2003 and the subsequent attacks of 2007 and 2011.

Moroccan authorities have dismantled multiple groups with ties to international networks that included ISIS. Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) and ISIS continue efforts to recruit Moroccans.
If you like New Zealand enough to want to become a citizen, the countrys Internal Affairs Department noted on Wednesday, one requirement is to have been physically in New Zealand for a minimum of 1,350 days in the five years preceding the citizenship application. Another requirement is that you continue to reside there after becoming a citizen.

Mr. Thiel, 49, does not appear to have done either.

The investor, who retains his American citizenship, was a founder of the online payments site PayPal and the data company Palantir. He secretly funded the lawsuit that killed off Gawker Media, the network of gossip sites that outed him as gay.

When Mr. Trump won, Mr. Thiel emerged as a key adviser. He has spent much of the time since the election in New York as part of the transition team. People from Mr. Thiels network are under consideration for significant jobs in Trumps cabinet.

As a byproduct of his singular support for Mr. Trump in Silicon Valley, Mr. Thiel has become famous, a fate many of his peers go out of their way to avoid. He has been reported as a possible Supreme Court justice, as a potential Republican candidate for governor of California, and most recently, as President Trumps potential ambassador to Germany. (He denied the first, and the others appear unlikely.)

Mr. Thiels admiration for New Zealand is longstanding. Utopia, he once called it. He has an investment firm in the country that has put millions into local start-ups. He also owns lavish properties there, which his Silicon Valley friends hope to fly to in the event of a worldwide pandemic.
On Wednesday, the CNN host Van Jones read a famous passage from the novel about efforts to force citizens to reject the evidence of your eyes and ears, and urged his viewers not to become complacent when faced with a barrage of falsehoods. Lets not go down the Orwellian road, and I hope thats not where Trump is trying to lead us, he said.

Of course, it is not the first time that readers and pundits have invoked the novel to criticize the actions and statements of a government. It is such a standard trope that Orwells name has become an adjective. And because so many American readers are exposed to the novel in high school or college, most people have a passing familiarity with its basic themes about the dangers of authoritarianism, and use phrases like big brother as a shorthand to describe a multitude of things, from Google to homeland security.

Its a frame of reference that people can reach for in response to government deception, propaganda, the misuse of language, and those are things that occur all the time, said Alex Woloch, an English professor at Stanford University who has written about the roots of Orwells political language. There are certain things this administration is doing that has set off these alarm bells, and people are hungry for frames of reference to understand this new reality.

The sudden prominence of such novels reflects a renewed public interest in decades-old works of speculative fiction as guides for understanding our current political moment. Readers who are grappling with a jolting shift in American politics, when easily verifiable facts are subject to debate and civil liberties and democratic norms feel fragile, are turning to dystopian novels for guidance and insight.

Many of these books are becoming more important to the average American reader because they want to know whats next, because weve never been through this before, said the novelist Gary Shteyngart, author of the dystopian novel Super Sad True Love Story. Language is being used to destabilize peoples perception of reality, and thats very new to this country.

Readers may also be returning to the comfort (if you can call it that) of familiar dystopian novels because these stories offer moral clarity at a time when it can be difficult to keep up with the convulsions of the daily news cycle, and the fire hose of information and disinformation on social media.
Broken  The Womens Prison at Hoheneck 0:06 Titelblende Broken 0:18 I had such fear. I feared for my life. I knew what I will experience there will not be good. 0:32 I think there were 33 of us in a holding cell. It was filled with bunk beds, each triple stacked. There was a hierarchy. The new arrivals had to sleep at the bottom. Later they were permitted to sleep in the middle. Those who had been there a while slept at the top. 0:48 We had to get up at 4 in the morning. There was a too-toot sound and the cell matron stood up first, entered the bathroom and yelled, number 1, and number 1 had to get up immediately and wash. And while she started, the matron shouted, number 2! and then number 3! 1:10 There was no lid or anything like that, only the toilet. You just sat down while the others brushed their teeth or got washed. 1:20 You were observed: does she brush her teeth in the mornings and evenings? How does she wash, does she wash herself down below? How does she wipe her behind? You had to wash yourself outwardly, so everyone could see that you cleaned everywhere. 1:34 ... A grey castle, the people had grey faces, and wore grey clothing. The food was grey too. Without anything green or red or some other colour. 1:43 We looked crazed. Like female crows with lipstick. All of us pale, all with black head scarfs. But we painted our lips with matches in order to look a little pretty. 2:06 When I arrived I learned the following: you belong to us now. We are the workers commando for sewing bed linens. And then I saw these patterns and materials and thought, How interesting. I have never seen anything like that in East Germany. None of us knew where they were going. But I was certain it wasnt going to the East. 2:26 Basically you had a performance quota and thats why it was very important that you had a sewing machine that cut well. The knife had to be good but also sew well at the same time. Otherwise you wouldnt have managed to reach 100 percent. 2:40 There was a board on the wall. It contained a list of people who were particularly hard- working. There you saw that worker number so and so had completed 40 thingamajigs. 2:54 Often we squatted in the cell and cried because we knew we wouldnt make the quota the next day. 3:05 The pain told me what time it was. We had no watches or anything like that. Your entire face changed. It dissolved. It was broken. 3:20 Yes, I think we knew the stuff was sold in the west. There were rumours. 3:32 At the very bottom of the castle were windows to the confinement cells. You could hear the screaming and crying. I want out of here, out of here. I cant take it anymore. I cant take it anymore. 3:45 The confinement cells were solitary. They could be completely shuttered, so that no light entered. Forget about fresh air. You saw nothing. You had to stand or squat on the floor. There was fear of mice. You had to scream if you wanted to use the toilet because the doors were locked. And you had no contact with other people, sometimes for 10 days at a time. 4:09 What we feared most in Hoheneck was the water cell. You entered the cell and they let the water in  cold water, up to your neck. 4:24 None of them had their periods. They stopped the day they entered Hoheneck. It was strange. 4:32 We had insane amounts of hair loss and sleeplessness. It came all at once. All of a sudden you didnt function anymore. Not even the most normal thing. 4:55 When I detect a certain odour, when I smell the fall, I smell the very air as it was when I I was arrested. Its always a shock. It puts me in a really bad way. Texttafeln Between 1950 and 1990 thousands of political prisoners were held in forced labour at Hoheneck, the main prison for women in the German Democratic Republic. Most of the products made by the inmates were exported to West Germany, ending up on the shelves of Aldi, Karstadt, Woolworth and other stores. The exports generated billions in revenues for the indebted East German state. Some of these retailers knew of the practice before 1989. 5:30 When they arrested me, when the men came, I told my daughter, Finchen, Ill be back to pick you up tonight. Ill never forget her eyes. Well, I never did pick her up. Credits Narrated By Birgit Willschutz Gabriele Stotzer Written By Max Monch Alexander Lahl Directed By Volker Schlecht Alexander Lahl Design and Animation Volker Schlecht Sound Design and Music Hannes Schulze Funded By Bundesstiftung Aufarbeitung Stiftung Sachsische Gedenkstatten Thanks Birgit Willschutz Gabriele Stotzer Tobias Wunschik Dr. Sabine Kuder Izabela Plucinska Special Thanks Kerstin Julke A Die Kulturingenieure Production  Volker Schlecht and die Kulturingenieure 2016
Armenian Apostolic Church Supreme Spiritual Council meeting ends, Armenia and Artsakh security discussed

Tropical Storm Nalgae death toll climbs to 155 in Philippines

Artak Beglaryan is appointed advisor to Artsakh Minister of State (PHOTOS)

US House committee extends deadline for Trump to produce documents on Capitol attack

Over 200 elephants die in Kenya amid drought

13 dead in cafe fire in Russia

Armenia Security Council chief to head for Poland, Netherlands, Lithuania

Rishi Sunak: State cannot fix all problems

Newspaper: To what extent Armenia adheres to sanctions on Russia?

Biden accuses Twitter of spewing lies

Newspaper: There are active political processes in Karabakh

Qatar FM slams hypocrisy of calls to boycott World Cup

France, Singapore and Switzerland begin joint testing of experimental digital currencies

Oil war is Biden's biggest mistake

Japan considers possible deployment of hypersonic missiles by 2030

Germany to install better air defense system over Defense Ministry buildings

Erdogan and Stoltenberg discuss war in Ukraine

Armenian MOD: Azerbaijani Armed Forces open fire in direction of Armenian positions

True cost of Europe's rejection of Russian gas

White House tries to explain Biden's statement about freeing Iran

Former Pakistani Prime Minister: Either we will have a peaceful revolution or a bloody one

Aramyan: Why are police officers' salaries increasing, while defense officers' are not?

Pentagon and U.S. weapons manufacturers to discuss Russia, human resources and supply chain

Ankara says U.S. may approve sale of F-16s to Turkey within few months

IMF: Turkey should tighten monetary policy and give the Central Bank more independence

Pope urges religious leaders to keep the world from brink of abyss

Putin awards Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II with Order of Honor

U.S. says G7 countries realize need for coordinated response to China

Round-the-clock curfew is introduced in Kherson

Borrell says they can't put China and Russia on same level

Olaf Scholz calls on China to influence Russia

G7 foreign ministers express 'unwavering commitment' to protecting Ukraine, criticized PRC and IRI

Political technologist explains why Pashinyan was elected chairman of board of ruling party in Armenia

Erdogan signs up for TikTok

China's army is constantly preparing for war amid provocative U.S. actions

Kalin: Armenia is constructive about normalization of relations

Poland asks EU to suspend fines

Putin: Situation in Ukraine was deadly for Russia

Portugal to test a four-day workweek

US embassy in Armenia issues statement ahead of November 5 protests in Yerevan

Dollar, euro go up in Armenia

Baku authorities once again refuse to allow PFPA to hold protest rally

Iranians commemorate anniversary of US embassy seizure

Richard Kauzlarich: Azerbaijan, Armenia FMs meeting in Washington 'will send message to Putin'

Russia ratifies protocol on requirements for length of service of EEU bodies' employees for pensions

Armenia deputy defense minister in Russia, discusses military cooperation

Yerevan receives proposal to hold Russia-Armenia-Azerbaijan interparliamentary talks

Health minister: We will work with fallen Armenia detainees relatives one more time after which bodies will be buried

Putin allows mobilization of citizens with unexpunged criminal record for serious crimes

Arnika, NESEHNUTI NGOs of Czech Rep. issue joint statement on plan to expand gold mine in Armenias Karaberd

Putin urges to evacuate civilians living in Kherson from the war zone

Iran parliament speaker to visit Armenia

Ruling force MP: Canada is opening embassy in Armenia because we are one of worlds most democratic countries

Girl with Armenian roots ends up in Vladimir orphanage

Erdogan says he has agreed with Putin to supply grain to needy countries for free

Armenia President, UK envoy agree to continue cooperation, close contacts

Armenia FM receives EU Monitoring Capacity

Spanish MPs don't approve agreement with Baku as a sign of solidarity with Armenia

Japan says North Korea may go ahead with nuclear test

Armenia government to allocate about $5M to Karabakh refugees support program

Belarusian border service: Border guards intercepts Ukrainian training drone

President appoints Ruben Vardanyan as Karabakh Minister of State

US embassy expresses concern about human rights violation in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan continues muscle play on Iran border

Ibrahim Kalin says Turkey will become an important gas center one way or another

Biden: We're gonna free Iran

Reuters: G7 countries and Australia agrees on fixed price for Russian oil

World oil prices dropping

Wizz Air to launch new flights between Venice, Yerevan

EU assesses Armenia, Azerbaijan border commissions meeting in Brussels as constructive

Artsakh President convenes enlarged working consultation

Envoy: China supports Armenians

Azerbaijan MOD disseminates disinformation, Armenia army did not fire

Armenia ruling party recounts congress voting results

Quake jolts Turkey

Newspaper: Armenia PM once again manipulates topic of negotiations, Karabakh conflict

Newspaper: Studies underway on Armenia MPs business involvement

US wants to prevent Germany, other allies from working together with China

Protests turn violent in Iran's Alborz Province

Portugal is considering abandoning golden visa scheme

Biden and Erdogan to meet at G-20 summit

NATO supports normalization of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan and welcomes EU efforts

Bank of England raises interest rates by largest amount since 1989

Scholz says Berlin must change its attitude toward China

Cavusoglu and Stoltenberg disagree over Sweden's and Finland's fulfillment of commitments

Turkish Vice President to visit Azerbaijan and occupied Shushi

Britain buys 250 million pounds worth of oil from Azerbaijan from July 2021 to June 2022

Yair Lapid congratulates Benjamin Netanyahu on winning election

Armenian MOD: Azerbaijani Ministry of Defense spreads another disinformation

ENISA: War in Ukraine, geopolitics fuel cyberattacks

Armenian MFA: Yerevan and Baku agree to speed up work on agreeing procedure of Commissions' activities

Zelenskyy will not participate in G20 summit if Putin participates in it

WP: Man who attacked Pelosi's husband was in the U.S. illegally

At Upper Lars, 30 cars are allowed through per day instead of previous 300: What are authorities doing?

Bloomberg: Turkey unlikely to sign Sweden's bid for NATO membership before the end of the year

Military servicemen in Armenia to be attested: Discussion at parliamentary standing committee

IEA calls for urgent action on gas shortages in Europe

French Senate to consider resolution demanding immediate withdrawal of Azerbaijani troops from Armenian territory

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January 28 marks the 25th anniversary of the Armenian national armyan army which formed against the backdrop of the war in Karabakh and which became the logical result thereof.

Marking the courage of the Armenian soldiers today, we recall the faces of this war, one of which was female.

For this purpose we visited Yerablur military pantheon, where seven out of many Armenian women, who fought shoulder to shoulder with the men for the peaceful life on their motherland, are buried.

Nune Abrahamyan

Nune was born on July 6, 1966 in Yerevan. After graduating from the Armenian State Institute of Physical Culture, she started working at the Physiotherapy Unit of the Yerevan Center of Post-Traumatic Rehabilitation. Nune was a multiple champion of Armenia in archery.

In 1992, she joined Artsiv-24 squadron and took part in the fights going on in Martakert, Haterkin the region of Sarsang ReservoireKusapat, Agdam, Fizuli, Kubatlu and Kalbajar.

She died on January 31, 1994, at the age of 28, in the Kalbajar region, while helping her wounded friends, who had been encircled.

Karine Gevorgyan

Karine was born on December 7, 1956 in Khachaghbyur village of Vardenis region. After leaving school, she entered Chemistry Department of Polytechnic Institute of Yerevan. In 1982, she began working in Nairit scientific and production association.

With the beginning of the national liberation movement, she joined Artsakh union and public organization Greens Union of Armenia.

In 1992, she left for Karabakh as a volunteer. Karine carried the wounded away from the battlefield and took part in the fights going on by Getavan village of Martakert region, Haterk, Mets Shen and Kalbajar.

She died on June 13, 1993, at the age of 37, in Magavuz village of Martakert region, while helping her wounded friends. A school has been named after her in Kachaghbyur.

Naira Sahakyan

Naira was born on March 9, 1970 in Yerevan. She entered the Hakob Chamchyan college of Applied Chemistry. She then married and had two childrenTeresa and Tigran.

Since 1989 she joined the liberation movement and Aghbyur Serob detachment. Sahakyan also took part in the fights going on in Askeran, Lachin and Kusapat.

In 1993, Naira participated in the fights going on in the region of Sarsang Reservoire as part of the Artsiv-5 squadron. Moreover, she took part in the liberation of Shushi.

Her former friends called her White fox and Shushi fox for her fast reaction, agility and acumen.

She died from a sniper bullet on February 23, 1993 at the age of 23 when trying to help her wounded friend Hrach.

Nvard Hovsepyan (Nara)

In 1988, Nvard was in Nakhchivan on intelligence duties. In 1989, she was included in the intelligence group composition.

On May 27, 1990, along with Artsiv detachment, her brothers and husband, she prevented the entry of tanks to Yerevan to disallow provocations and bloodshed.

On May 9, 1992 she took part in the Shushi liberation fights.

She returned from the war seriously ill. Hovsepyan died on January 17, 2002 in Moscow from cardiopulmonary arrest.

Ashkhen Hovhannisyan

Ashkhen was born on February 16, 1969.

In February 1993, she served in the 5th motor rifle brigade as a radio communicator. In 1993, she left for Hadrut region, where she took part in defensive fights.

She returned to Yerevan due to the deterioration of her health. Hovhannisyan died on March 20, 2008 from the general intoxication of her organism.

Karine Hovsepyan

Karine was born on February 5, 1961 in Yerevan. Since 1989, she had been taking part in the Shushi liberation fights.

In 1990, she joined Tigran Mets regiment as a rifleman. Karine took part in the military operations in Goris, Noyemberyan, Getashen, as well as villages of Erkej, Buzlukh, Manashid and Omar Pass.

Being wounded on February 5, 1994, she returned as a person with disabilities of the second group. Karine died in 2010 at the age of 49.

Svetlana Avagyan (Lena mayrik)

Svetlana was born in 1944. She was named Lena mayrik (Mother Lena) for her maternal care. Upon the completion of Operation Ring, she set her house on fire so that the adversary couldnt get it.

After the displacement of Armenians from Getashen, she settled in Khachpar village of Ararat province. Svetlana died in 2006.
YEREVAN.  The Armenian side will very swiftly take back the lands that were lost in Nagorno-Karabakh.

Secretary of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic (NKR/Artsakh) National Security Council, Vitaly Balasanyan, on Saturday told the aforementioned to reporters, during the Armenian Army Day events.

In his words, there will come a time when everything will fall into place.

And in response to the Armenian News-NEWS.am reporters query on the present-day state of the NKRs Talish village, which was heavily attacked by the Azerbaijani army in April 2016, Balasanyan stated that the village is being restored.

Its safe in any part of Karabakh, he added. Now, we are resolving the matters related to the school and the kindergarten [of Talish].
WASHINGTON, D.C.  As previously reported by the Armenian Assembly of America (Assembly), the Senate Foreign Relations Committee approved President Donald Trump's Secretary of State nomination of Rex Tillerson, and is currently awaiting approval by the full Senate.

Senator Edward Markey (D-MA), a strong supporter of U.S.-Armenia relations, asked the Secretary of State nominee a series of questions about Americas role in the region. As a Co-Chair of the OSCE Minsk Group, the U.S. plays a critical role in maintaining stability in the South Caucasus through its mediation of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict. Tillerson promised: If confirmed, I will work with the governments of Armenia and Azerbaijan to find a peaceful, long-term solution that allows for stability and prosperity in the region. The first step in this process must be to build trust by ensuring that all agreements between the parties are respected.

We call upon the Administration to hold Azerbaijan accountable for its blatant cease-fire violations and resulting atrocities as well as Azerbaijan's continued targeting of civilian facilities such as a kindergarten in the Tavush region of Armenia, stated Assembly Executive Director Bryan Ardouny. We commend Senator Markey for raising key issues of concern for the Armenian American community and look forward to working him and his colleagues in the 115th Congress, Ardouny added.

Focusing on Armenia's other hostile neighbor, Turkey, Sen. Markey noted that the United States has spoken clearly about the need for Turkey to lift its more than 20-year blockade of Armenia and establish diplomatic relations with Armenia. Senator Markey asked the Secretary of State nominee what steps he would take to ensure that Turkey ends its blockade of Armenia. Tillerson responded: I will support the normalized diplomatic, economic, and civil society relations, between Armenia and Turkey in my ongoing discussions with the two parties. U.S. leadership and re-engagement in the region at large will help build the necessary trust to improve relations between Armenia and Turkey. He also added that e will ensure protection of religious minorities and their property rights, including the Armenian community in Turkey.

Tillerson assured that he is committed to fostering the relationship between the U.S. and Armenia, including economic opportunities. It is in the interest of the United States to promote mutually beneficial trade between the United States and Armenia. If confirmed, I will work closely with the U.S. Trade Representative and other relevant parts of the U.S. government to explore the possibilities to expand trade and investment between the United States and Armenia in a way that creates U.S. jobs and economic growth, he continued. Tillerson also recognized the tremendous challenges facing Armenia due to the influx of refugees and plans "to ensure cost-effective assistance to Armenia as part of a broader strategy for handling the Syrian refugee issue and protecting U.S. national security interests.
YEREVAN. - Chief of the General Staff of the Armenian Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Movses Hakobyan on Saturday received the delegation of the U.S. Kansas state led by Brigadier General and Adjutant General Lee Tafanelli. The delegation has arrived in Armenia to take part in the events dedicated to the 25th anniversary of the Armenian Armed Forces.

At the meeting, the U.S. delegation congratulated the Armenian Armed Forces on their 25th anniversary, wishing them peace and new achievements.

Lieutenant General Movses Hakobyan, for his part, stressed that the Armenian Armed forces highly appreciate the cooperation with the U.S. and, in particular with Kansas National Guard, which began 15 years ago, developing during this entire period.

Apart from this, the interlocutors discussed the bilateral cooperation programs aimed at the training of professional sergeants and the development of their military and medical, as well as engineering capacities.
Those who thought that the standoff at the Standing Rock Indian Reservation was over when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers denied a construction permit for the Dakota Access Pipeline in December should think again, said Daniel Guzman, 33, a Milwaukee native who is protesting there for the third time.

"Many thought that the fight was over and left, but we knew better and stayed," Guzman said. He described in a Facebook post how hed been targeted three times with tear gas canisters by police and been involved in several other clashes recently.

Guzman, an Oneida Nation of Wisconsin tribal member who has been splitting his time between Green Bay and Milwaukee in recent years, has joined other local activists traveling to North Dakota to join the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and others in what they describe as a fight to protect the water. Constructing the pipeline would lead to contamination of the local water and the destruction of sacred sites, they say. The Standing Rock reservation straddles the border between North Dakota and South Dakota.

"Water sustains all life, and we should do everything in our power to protect it," said Guzman, who said it was his calling to go. He added that the main focus now is surviving the cold and cleaning up abandoned camps, although protestors  who he described as peaceful  continue to be the target of aggression by law enforcement.

"The police charged us three times shooting [non-lethal rounds] and trying to grab people. Each time we would begin to sing prayer songs they would fall back," Guzman posted on Facebook late last week.

Audri Casarez, 27, who is half Menomonee Indian and lives in Milwaukee, traveled in November to the Oceti Sakowin Camp, where protestors gather, after reading countless news articles about the standoff. Days started before sunrise with prayers and other ceremonies, she said. Those who were to stand on the front lines received training in non-violent protest and how to avoid agitating law enforcement.

On her third day there, she got her first taste of tear gas. That day, she joined dozens of protestors who traveled across a river by boat to Turtle Island, a few miles from the Sakowin camp, where some protestors drummed and sang while others shouted slogans. Eventually, she said, tear gas and a growing police presence led an elder to tell them to leave the island and head back for camp.

"We were reluctant to abandon our post, but when an elder speaks, you listen," Casarez said.

Looking back on the experience, Casarez, who has an 8-year-old daughter, said the sense of community there was overwhelming. Leaving was tough, though she would go back if needed, she said.

"I will be ready," Casarez said. "Solidarity is real. Solidarity is our greatest tool in all of this."

Eele Curb, 23, who lives on the South Side, joined the protests in December. Curb sees parallels between the situation in North Dakota and the lead lateral situation in Milwaukee, which critics say has led to elevated lead levels in local drinking water. They assert that recent test results have determined that the lead levels at several Milwaukee Public Schools were dangerously high, though MPS officials and the city have denied that contention.

Curb and a friend took the trip to try to stop "poisoning of the rivers" by construction of the pipeline.

He spent most of his time in North Dakota shoveling  roads and at the homes of elders. Curb said he wishes he could have stayed longer than a week and is disappointed that in the end the pipeline might be built.

"Supposedly, now that the Trump administration has taken control, the pipeline will legally be allowed to be completed," Curb said.

President Donald Trumps Press Secretary Sean Spicer declined during a press conference Monday to "get in front of the presidents executive actions," but added that there is an opportunity to increase jobs and economic growth in the Dakota pipeline area. He added that Trump is "very, very keen in making sure we maximize use of our natural resources to Americas benefit. Its good for economic growth, its good for jobs, and its good for American energy."

Still, Curb said, the sense of community that he and others from across the country shared at Standing Rock eases his disillusionment.

"When the rivers are poisoned and my kid asks me why no one did anything, I can say that so many of us did do something," Curb said.
marijuana legalization protest donald trump inauguration

Theo Wargo/Getty

A marijuana legalization activist hands free joints at a rally in Washington, DC, on the morning of President Donald Trumps inauguration.

President Donald Trump set an ambitious agenda in his first full week in office.

After his inauguration on January 20, Trump signed an executive order that directs federal agencies to start rolling back the Affordable Care Act, revived two controversial oil pipelines, staged a war on the media, and played a game of chicken with the president of Mexico.

But we still dont know much about Trumps plans for marijuana legalization. Theres a pretty simple explanation for that uncertainty: His administration finds itself in a bit of a Catch-22.

When it comes to marijuana legalization, there are two basic paths Trump can choose from. He can try to stamp out the $6.8 billion legal marijuana industry, or support states rights to legislate their own drug policy.

Marijuana is regulated under federal law, which gives Trump and his administration the ability to upend programs in the US states that have legalized marijuana for medical use, recreation, or both. The Department of Justice can easily send cease and desist letters to companies that touch the plant. Its unlikely Trump will take that route, however.

marijuana donald trump rally protest inauguration

Theo Wargo/Getty

Marijuana legalization activists protested in Washington, DC, on the morning of President Donald Trumps inauguration.

Support for marijuana legalization reached an all-time high in 2016. Sixty percent of Americans surveyed by the Gallup Poll last year said they favor outright legalization, up from 35% in 2005. Even Republicans, who traditionally oppose legalization, seem to be coming around to the idea.

Eight US states voted on marijuana legalization ballots in the 2016 Election. Five of them  Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Montana, and North Dakota  turned red for Trump. Of those five, four states legalized cannabis in some form, the Marijuana Business Daily reports.

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The results of the election tell us being a Republican and a marijuana legalization advocate are no longer mutually exclusive, if the labels ever were to begin with.

Tom Angell, chairman of pro-legalization group Marijuana Majority, told Business Insider in November that the new administration should recognize a crackdown against broadly popular laws in a growing number of states would create huge political problems they dont need.

donald trump marijuana legalization graffiti

Sean Gallup/Getty

A passerby photographs a mural showing President Donald Trump blowing marijuana smoke into the mouth of Russian President Vladimir Putin on the wall of a BBQ restaurant in Vilnius, Lithuania.

Alternatively, Trump could allow states to continue to ignore the drugs federal status and regulate marijuana. That approach would potentially satisfy both conservatives who support legalization and conservatives who respect the political powers reserved for the state governments rather than the federal government under the US Constitution. The decision would leave marijuana legalization advocates on both sides of the aisle happy.

There is a middle ground. Trump might support states rights on paper, while finding other ways to undermine the legal marijuana industry. Many of these options are remnants of President Barack Obamas administration, which was also soft on marijuana reform.

His administration may very well preserve marijuanas Schedule I classification, which makes it difficult for scientists to get their hands on the drug for research.

The federal government might penalize banks that take money from companies that work in weed, and make it more difficult for those ganjapreneurs to do business. (While the Department of Justice largely stays out of the way of marijuana-focused companies that abide by state laws, few banks and credit unions take the risk of opening accounts for those entrepreneurs.)

The Department of Justice might shape the market by raiding a dispensary or two in states where theyre legal to operate, sending waves of fear throughout the industry.

oaksterdam raid 2012

Noah Berger/AP

Police officers arrest a pro-marijuana protester outside Oaksterdam University in Oakland, California, in 2012.

Its hard to predict how Trump will proceed. The real-estate billionaire has flip-flopped on the issue throughout his public life. Hes publicly stated his support for medical marijuana and states rights to regulate it, but his administration as yet to take a definitive stance.

His pick for US attorney general, Alabama Senator Jeff Sessions, is bad news for legal marijuana. Sessions said in an April Senate hearing on marijuana reform that good people dont smoke marijuana. The senator also pointed to a tenuous theory that marijuana is a gateway drug, and said that, youll see cocaine and heroin increase more than it would have.

But for now, its a safe bet that Trump will stick with the status quo and support states rights, giving one in five Americans with legal access to marijuana the green-light to light up.





The post Trump has two paths he can take on marijuana legalization  heres how they could affect you appeared first on Business Insider.
ADEN, Yemen (AP)  After reaching Yemen's shores in a packed migrant boat, the young Ethiopian coffee farmer was plunged into a living hell. The smugglers wanted thousands of dollars in ransom from the migrants, and they used him as an example of what would happen if they didn't pay.

Each day for a month, they inflicted new tortures on him, Omar Farrag told The Associated Press. They put him in a tank of water and lit a fire underneath it. They wrapped his limbs with tight barbed wire. At times, they heated the barbed wire.

Finally, his younger brother came from Ethiopia with $2,000 in ransom money. The smugglers decided they could squeeze more money out of him too, so they tortured his brother and ended up killing him, Farrag said.

Now in the southern Yemeni city of Aden, the 26-year-old is overcome with guilt over his brother's death. "I got my brother killed; I am a disgrace. But it's impossible to imagine what I went through," Farrag said. "I don't even know where they buried him."

Migrants from the Horn of Africa are flowing into Yemen at ever growing rates despite the nearly 2-year-old civil war that has thrown the country into its own humanitarian crisis of hunger and displacement. The migrants  many, like Farrag, fleeing drought or poverty back home  are hoping to cross Yemen and reach neighboring oil-rich Saudi Arabia.

More than 111,500 migrants landed on Yemen's shores last year, up from around 100,000 the year before, according to the Regional Mixed Migration Secretariat, a grouping of international agencies that monitors migration in the area.

The chaos caused by the civil war has raised migrants' hopes that they can slip through to Saudi Arabia, with no central authority keeping watch. However, the turmoil has also left migrants vulnerable to abuse and cruelty at the hands of the armed trafficking rings, many believed connected to and acting with protection from the multiple militias involved in the war.

Story continues

After taking migrants' money as payment to transport them, the traffickers often demand more, sometimes even phoning their families in Ethiopia so they can hear the torment their loved ones are subjected to. Rape is so widespread that women carry contraception for fear of becoming pregnant.

"Migrants don't know they will have to pay twice: Once when they take the boat to cross the sea and a second time upon arrival," said Laurent De Boeck, head of Yemeni operations of the International Organization for Migration, or IOM. "So when they don't pay, this is when the phase of abuses begins. They face torture, burns and rape."

The fate of migrants in Yemen remains a black hole. It is not known how many become trapped and abused, but officials from the IOM and other U.N. agencies believe it is widespread. It is not even known how many eventually make it to Saudi Arabia, as the kingdom does not release figures.

Authorities in southern Yemen have carried out forced deportations of migrants at least seven times, IOM officials said. In December, at least 25 drowned when they were forced onto boats to leave Aden.

The migrants were rounded up, packed onto small boats  as many as 150 to a vessel  and forced out to sea, according to Yemeni security officials in Aden. "They were led like animals with nothing with them but water," said one senior officer, speaking on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk to the press.

Over 90 percent of the migrants belong to the Oromo community, Ethiopia's largest ethnic group, whose members often complain of discrimination at the hands of the Ethiopian government. Most are aged 25 and younger  some as young as 11, said Esam al-Makhzomi an IOM official in Aden. According to IOM figures, around 20 percent of the migrants are unaccompanied minors.

"There was an impression that the numbers are going down but in fact ... the numbers are huge and they continue to grow," he said.

He described trafficking as "an organized criminal ring. ... Nothing is random here." He said torture is rampant, aiming at scaring migrants and forcing them to pay more money. He said some local security and government officials provide cover for the traffickers.

"There is torture, rape, and we have seen severe cases of abuse where the migrants lose their lives," al-Makhzomi said.

Nearly 30 percent of the migrants who have sought IOM help to return home said they had been approached by one of the warring parties in Yemen  or by militant groups like al-Qaida and the Islamic State group  trying to recruit them as fighters, de Boeck said. An estimated 9,000 migrants are being held in prisons, whether by the rebels or by opposing factions.

From Ethiopia, migrants take one of two routes, through Djbouti or the Puntland region of Somalia  often walking for days to reach the ports there.

Those leaving from Somalia cross the Gulf of Aden to land in Shabwa province on Yemen's southern coast, an area controlled by factions backing the internationally recognized government, but where factions linked to al-Qaida also are active.

Those leaving from Djibouti take boats across the Bab al-Mandab  Arabic for "the gates of grief"  the 25-kilometer-wide straits at the mouth of the Red Sea. They land on Yemen's eastern coast in areas mostly under the control of the Houthi rebels.

The migrants then often go by foot across Yemen toward the Saudi border. But since much of the area around the border is a battle zone, chances are slim of actually making it into Saudi Arabia, al-Makhzomi said

The exception may be female migrants, who are in demand as domestic workers in Saudi Arabia. There is a "more sophisticated smuggling mechanism for women," said Lalini Veerassamy, an IOM official in Djibouti.

De Boeck, the IOM chief in Sanaa, said that trafficking in human organs is also on the rise.

"The trafficking of people for organs ... seems to be more widespread, related to the fact that there is a collapse of the state and no capacity to have the rule of law applied," he said.

Farrag, the coffee farmer, bears marks of torture at the hands of the smugglers. His arms are covered with burns and scars and he has a deep scar under one eye. One of his toes is missing.

"Now, if I see a migrant with a scar, I can tell how he sustained it. I have tasted all sorts of torture," he said, looking around nervously as he spoke.

He refused to be photographed or filmed, saying he didn't want his family to find out he was alive. After being held by the smugglers for around a month, he was freed after his brother's death, he said. Now he works repairing shoes from a blanket spread on the side of a road in Aden's Koud al-Nimr district.

He said he landed in Shabwa last May with a boatload of fellow migrants. The smugglers immediately took them in trucks to a building surrounded by high walls. Inside, there were many rooms, all sealed off and dark.

The traffickers asked each migrant for $2,000, and the abuses started.

"From maybe 100 migrants, they pick five to torture badly so everybody succumbs," he said. Occasionally gunshots rang out and the smugglers would tell him they shot a migrant trying to escape. He said he saw women screaming as they were forced into rooms where he suspected they were raped.

Despite all the suffering, Farrag hasn't given up.

"I am saving money to go to Saudi Arabia," he said.

___

Michael reported from Cairo. Associated Press writer Ahmed al-Haj in Sanaa, Yemen, contributed to this report.
(Corrects paragraph 10 to show Le Pen topping polls only in first round of election) By Axel Bugge LISBON (Reuters) - French President Francois Hollande said on Saturday the new U.S. government was encouraging "populism and even extremism", as he and fellow southern European leaders urged unity to face an increasingly uncertain world. "We have to stand together in Europe," Hollande said during the meeting in Lisbon. "What is at stake is populism. The kind of discourse now coming from the United States encourages populism and even extremism." Hollande was speaking at a meeting of southern European leaders in Lisbon, which showed growing concern of threats to European unity at a time of Britain's departure from the EU and growing populism. The leaders, who face risks ranging from Europe's refugee crisis to slow growing economies and high debts, said in a joint declaration they confront a world with "growing uncertainties and instability," making European unity yet more important. "Weakening Europe is not an option," they said. The group, which is sometimes referred to as "Club Med", includes France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Malta and Cyprus. None of the other leaders spoke directly about U.S. President Donald Trump's administration, but they showed their determination in opposing protectionist trade policies that Trump is promoting. "We need to develop a robust trade policy based on fair exchanges, the promotion of our standards and the safeguarding or our way of life," the declaration said. "Protectionist reactions are not the right answer." Concerns that populism could further undermine the European Union after Britain's departure have focused on the threats to mainstream governments at elections this year in the Netherlands, France and Germany. In France, far-right leader Marine Le Pen leads opinion polls in the first round of the election in April, although they show her losing in the second round in May. And in Italy, the populist 5-Star Movement is the second-largest party as the likelihood of elections this year rise. "We have a message of confidence and hope regarding what we are and what the European Union has achieved over the past 30 years," said Italian Prime Minister Paolo Gentiloni. "It is not necessary that 2017 will be a year of crisis for the EU." Saturday's meeting of the leaders is the second of what are planned to be regular gatherings. At the first meeting of the group in September in Athens, the group called for European measures to boost flagging growth. At the time, German officials urged the group not to push for fiscal relaxation of EU rules. On Saturday, the leaders talked about the need for economic convergence with richer northern European countries and policies to boost growth, but they stressed the need for cooperation with all of Europe at this time of uncertainty. Still, the clout of the "Club Med" nations is likely to grow as with Britain's departure from the EU it is set to gain a blocking minority on EU policies. (Reporting By Axel Bugge; Editing by Dominic Evans and David Evans)
French President Francois Hollande urged Europe to form a united front and provide a "firm" response to US President Donald Trump, at a gathering Saturday of southern European Union leaders. "We must conduct firm dialogue with the new American administration which has shown it has its own approach to the problems we all face," he said at the end of the gathering as he was flanked by the other leaders who took part. Trump has rattled America's traditional European allies with a range of radical policy plans. He has called NATO "obsolete", announced he would rip up a planned transatlantic trade plan and supported Britain's move to leave the EU, praising the decision as "a wonderful thing" during a meeting Friday with British Prime Minister Theresa May. On Friday he also signed a sweeping executive order to suspend the arrival of refugees and impose tough controls on travellers from seven Muslim countries. "When he adopts protectionist measures, which could destabilise economies not just in Europe but the economies of the main countries of the world, we have to respond," Hollande added. "And when he refuses the arrival of refugees, while Europe has done its duty, we have to respond." Trump was due to speak Saturday with Hollande, as well as German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Russian President Vladimir Putin. - Ready to cooperate with Trump - While officially the new administration in Washington was not on the agenda, the six other European leaders who took part in the summit also alluded to Trump. Italian Prime Minister Paolo Gentiloni said Europe was "ready, interested and willing to cooperate" with the Trump administration. "But we are Europe, and we cherish our values," he added. Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy defended the EU project, saying it had helped transform Europe into the world region with the "highest level of progress, civil rights and well being". Also meeting in Lisbon were the leaders of Malta, Cyprus, Greece and Portugal. The summit was a follow up to a first gathering in Athens in September 2016 as part of a push by Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras to create a strong southern "axis" to counter the influence of nations in northern Europe. The group is often referred to -- sometimes dismissively -- as "Club Med", even though one of its members, Portugal, is not on the Mediterranean. It includes some of the nations hardest hit by the financial crisis. Portugal and Greece both needed international bailouts worth tens of billions of euros which came with demands for tough austerity measures and economic reforms. - Boost investment - As in the first meeting in Greece, the mostly centre-left leaders gathered in Portugal urged Brussels to do more to boost flagging growth in the bloc. A joint declaration signed by the participating countries said the EU should boost funding for strategic investment. "We share the urgency of promoting investment, growth, employment, with a special focus on youth employment," it read. The Lisbon summit comes ahead of a February 3 meeting of EU leaders in Malta to look at the future of the bloc without Britain, its second-largest economy and its richest financial centre. Rajoy said Madrid would host a third summit of southern EU nations in April. "These countries meet informally and they have no other goal other than to work for the people of the entire European Union," he said. The goal is not to create an "organisation" inside Europe but to act "in the service of the entire European Union," added Hollande. The so-called Visegrad group -- made up of Hungary, Slovakia, the Czech Republic and Poland -- have also held their own meetings to present a united front.
AFP News

Zhang Yao recalls the moment he realised something had gone deeply wrong at the Chinese mega-factory where he and hundreds of thousands of other workers assembled iPhones and other high-end electronics. In early October, supervisors suddenly warned him that 3,000 colleagues had been taken into quarantine after someone tested positive for Covid-19 at the factory. "They told us not to take our masks off," Zhang, speaking under a pseudonym for fear of retaliation, told AFP by telephone. What followed was a weeks-long ordeal including food shortages and the ever-present fear of infection, before he finally escaped on Tuesday. Zhang's employer, Taiwanese tech giant Foxconn, has said it faces a "protracted battle" against infections and imposed a "closed loop" bubble around its sprawling campus in central China's Zhengzhou city. Local authorities locked down the area surrounding the major Apple supplier's factory on Wednesday, but not before reports emerged of employees fleeing on foot and a lack of adequate medical care at the plant. China is the last major economy committed to a zero-Covid strategy, persisting with snap lockdowns, mass testing and lengthy quarantines in a bid to stamp out emerging outbreaks. But new variants have tested officials' ability to snuff out flare-ups and dragged down economic activity with the threat of sudden disruptions. - Desperation - Multiple workers have recounted scenes of chaos and increasing disorganisation at Foxconn's complex of workshops and dormitories, which form a city-within-a-city near Zhengzhou's airport. Zhang told AFP that "positive tests and double lines (on antigen tests) had become a common sight" in his workshop before he left. "Of course we were scared, it was so close to us." "People with fevers are not guaranteed to receive medicine," another Foxconn worker, a 30-year-old man who also asked to remain anonymous, told AFP. "We are drowning," he said. Those who decided to stop working were not offered meals at their dormitories, Zhang said, adding that some were able to survive on personal stockpiles of instant noodles. Kai, a worker at in the complex who gave an interview to state-owned Sanlian Lifeweek, told the magazine Foxconn's "closed loop" involved cordoning off paths between dormitory compounds and the factory, and complained he was left to his own devices after being thrown in quarantine. TikTok videos geolocated by AFP showed mounds of uncollected rubbish outside buildings in late October, while employees in N95 masks squeezed onto packed shuttle buses taking them from dormitories to their work stations. A 27-year-old woman working at Foxconn, who asked not to be named, told AFP a roommate who tested positive for Covid was sent back to her dormitory on Thursday morning, crying, after she decided to hand in her notice while in quarantine. "Now the three of us are living in the same room: one a confirmed case and two of us testing positive on the rapid test, still waiting for our nucleic acid test results," the worker told AFP. Many became so desperate by the end of last month that they attempted to walk back to their hometowns to get around Covid transport curbs. As videos of people dragging their suitcases down motorways and struggling up hills spread on Chinese social media, the authorities rushed in to do damage control. The Zhengzhou city government on Sunday said it had arranged for special buses to take employees back to their hometowns. Surrounding Henan province has officially reported a spike of more than 600 Covid cases since the start of this week. - Distrust - When Zhang finally attempted to leave the Foxconn campus on Tuesday, he found the company had set up obstacle after obstacle. "There were people with loudspeakers advertising the latest Foxconn policy, saying that each day there would be a 400 yuan ($55) bonus," Zhang told AFP. A crowd of employees gathered at a pick-up point in front of empty buses but were not let on. People in hazmat suits, known colloquially as "big whites" in China, claimed they had been sent by the city government. "They tried to persuade people to stay in Zhengzhou... and avoid going home," Zhang said. "But when we asked to see their work ID, they had nothing to show us, so we suspected they were actually from Foxconn." Foxconn pointed to the local government's lockdown orders from Wednesday when asked by AFP if it attempted to stop employees from leaving, without giving any further response. The company had on Sunday said it was "providing employees with complimentary three meals a day" and cooperating with the government to provide transport home. Eventually, the crowd of unhappy workers who had gathered decided to take matters into their own hands and walked over seven kilometres on foot to the nearest highway entry ramp. There, more people claiming to be government officials pleaded with the employees to wait for the bus. The crowd had no choice as the road was blocked. Buses eventually arrived at five in the afternoon -- nearly nine hours after Zhang had begun his attempt to secure transport. "They were trying to grind us down," he said. Back in his hometown, Zhang is now waiting out the home quarantine period required by the local government. "All I feel is, I've finally left Zhengzhou," he told AFP. bur-tjx/oho/je/mca/cwl
Dear Lunar New Year Escapists, we completely empathise with your compulsion to spam the evacuate button come the Chinese Spring Festival.

If youre ethnically Chinese, the Lunar New Year is an agonising extended holiday during which one is interrogated with regard to why he or she hasnt paired off and propagated. If one has done due diligence in this matter, he or she has to give money to all those who havent.

For many, the Lunar New Year is more uncomfortable than most MTV reality shows. Before they proceed to drinking and gambling, many families enjoy comparing their material wealth and successes against one another, the very idea of which compels many a Singaporean to nab last-minute air tickets out of the country.

On the flipside, the Chinese New Year for many businesses spells a week-long closure, which welcomes a substantial, well-needed getaway. If you happen to have acquired said discounted plane tickets, here are useful tips from eight (lucky number) jet-setting Singaporeans that you should heed before absconding:

Peter Chua, multi-award-winning bartender

Peter Chua

Peter Chua, Head Bartender at Crackerjack and 2014 Bartender of the Year, says:

We rely so much on technology nowadays in terms of checking in for flights, using uber and google maps, replying emails and more. And a worse thing than having no access to the internet is having a device that is dying. Being a bartender who travels a lot, I find myself charging my devices in numerous places all over the world, so always carry a universal adaptor  a good, reliable one.

Great deals for unlimited 4G data in several countries are available here.



Amanda Ang, co-founder of female DJ collective Attagirl

Amanda Ang

Amanda Ang, Co-Founder of DJ collective Attagirl , says:

It depends on where youre going I suppose, but wet tissues for sure everywhere I go! And a battery charger is very important too.

Amanda gets her wet wipes from stores like Watsons.

Nicholas Cho, Singaporean streetwear pioneer

Nicholas Cho

Nicholas Cho, Co-Owner of local label Flesh Imp, says:

My favourite Nike Flyknit Racers are the best for everything. Its like one shoe you can wear for few uses, like running and casual events, as well as walking around. Nice sneakers can help you pull off a smart look too.

Story continues

Check out the Nike Flyknit Racer family here.

Fakkah Fuzz, famous funnyman

Fakkah Fuzz

Fakkah Fuzz, comedian and television show host, says:

Tights! You never know when you want to swim or go to the gym.

Fuzz too gets his tights from Nike.

Tracy Phillips

Tracy Phillips

Tracy Philips, Director and Head of Programming at PPurpose and radio personality, says:

A Wi-Fi dongle, shawl for the plane because its always freezing and echinacea drops for if I start feeling under the weather to boost my immunity. Practical stuff!

Trednsetter Tracy likes scarves from Burberry and her echinacea drops from A.Vogel.

Matthew Gideon

Matthew Gideon

Matthew Gideon, Founder and Creative Director of menswear label Deboneire, says:

Id say a really good pair of walking shoes. If youre going to a new country, theres going to be a lot of exploring and walking, so to me thats important. My Dr Martens 1490s keep the dirt away and are good for all weather conditions.

This is what the gent is talking about.

Matthew Stewart

Matthew Stewart

Matthew Stewart, Shoutcaster and YouTube personality, says:

Travel money card is the first thing that comes to mind. I can transfer money to my card from my phone, and it has flat fees for withdrawals. I am free to use it as a credit card and it always has better rates than money changers.

Matthew likes the debit cards of Commonwealth Bank, which also have the capabilities of a credit card.

Sam Lo

Sam Lo

Samantha Lo, the artist popularly known as Sticker Lady, says:

I absolutely love anything with plenty of pockets, so those jackets with inner pockets are amazing to keep your belongings close. And markers. Because vandal.

(Cover photo by Alvin Teo)

===

Stay updated and social with Popspoken: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

This article The Only Pre-Flight Checklist Youll Need For CNY Getaways appeared first on Popspoken.
Have you ever wondered if theres one most important technique or approach most small business owners use for success? Theres not! But there are some essential ingredients that go into building almost every successful small business. You can see some of those essential ingredients by checking out the list of tips from members of our small business community below.

Become an Empowered Business Owner

Empowerment is a key ingredient of running a successful business. Whether youre a woman or a man, you need to find ways to empower yourself through a variety of sources, as this CorpNet post by Nellie Akalp points out.

Find the Right Marketing Channels to Focus On

If you want your marketing efforts to be effective, then you need to find the best channels for your business. This post by Sherice Jacob on the Kissmetrics blog explores how businesses can go about finding the right marketing channels in 2017.

Dont See Yourself as Unemployed

Entrepreneurs often look at things differently. Sometimes, they even look at their own employment differently, as Rachel Strella of Strella Social Media discusses in this post. BizSugar members also discuss the concept further here.

Embark on an Outreach Campaign

To get your business in front of more potential consumers, you need to reach out to people. And you can do that through an outreach campaign, as outlined in this Getentrepreneurial.com post by Derek Iwasiuk.

Comment to Build Your Brand and Traffic

Blogging for your business isnt just about creating your own original content. You can also build your brand and grow your traffic by commenting on other blogs. Ann Smarty offers tips for doing just that in this MyBlogU post.

Get to Profitability Faster

Most small businesses start out with slim to no profits. But you can get to profitability faster if you follow the tips in this Fundera Ledger post by Billie Ann Grigg. You can also see input from members of the BizSugar community here.

Use These Cohesive Mobile App Strategies

In 2017, having a mobile strategy is no longer optional. And mobile apps can be a great way to bolster your mobile presence. This Techlofy post by Alesia Nik goes over some cohesive mobile app strategies you can use for your business in 2017.

Stop Your Team From Missing Deadlines

Making deadlines is absolutely essential for businesses to function properly. And you can help your team stay on track with those deadlines by setting up recurring tasks, as Benjamin Brandall details in this Process Street post.

Nurture Leads Using Business Intelligence Data

In order to nurture leads and make smart business decisions, you need to have all the available information at your disposal. Thats where business intelligence data comes in. Learn more about using that data in this Target Marketing post by Rohan Ayyar. Then see what the BizSugar community has to say about the post.

Learn About These Common Dilemmas and Their Solutions

Dilemmas are going to be part of running any small business. But if you learn some of the common ones, along with how to solve them, you can give your business an advantage. Check out some of those common dilemmas for 2017 in this SMB CEO post by Erin Feldman.

If youd like to suggest your favorite small business content to be considered for an upcoming community roundup, please send your news tips to: sbtips@gmail.com.
With Slovaks concerned about other, real things, Fico has set about inventing fake problems and enemies.

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Albert Einstein supposedly defined insanity as doing the same thing over and over again while expecting a different result, and he didnt even live to see the years of Prime Minister Robert Fico as Slovak prime minister.

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Like him or loathe him Mr Fico is far and away the most important political leader in the history of independent Slovakia. Internationally, he may be the only Slovak most Europeans can name off the top their head, and he is wrapping up what has to be seen as a relatively successful turn as president of the European Council. His political skills  including the dark arts required to stay on top for so long  have vastly outpaced a variety of political competitors. But it is increasingly obvious Mr Fico is out of ideas.
The audit is designed to determine whether anti-corruption legislation is effective and standard, and whether it could pose an obstacle to economic growth.

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The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) will carry out an audit of Slovak anti-corruption legislation. Slovak Prime Minister, Robert Fico and OECD Secretary-General, Angel Gurria, signed the agreement for the audit in Paris on January 16.

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I, as Prime Minister want an objective audit of anti-corruption legislation in Slovakia, said Fico at a press briefing held in Paris, as cited by the TASR newswire. But it will be neither journalists, nor opposition leaders who will get to say: this is bad and this is good. International organisations, with whom we cooperate in this regard, have been established to that end.

The audit is designed to determine whether anti-corruption legislation is effective and standard and whether it could pose an obstacle to economic growth.

Were absolutely convinced that the OECD will adopt a completely objective stance on the issue, said Fico.

Read also:

Read also: Kalinak: Corruption in top politics cannot be prosecuted; it does not exist Read more

Gurria emphasised that the OECD does not intend to tell Slovakia what to do; its goal is only to share the best experience from abroad. Based on this, Slovakia might consider whether or not a change of rules is in order.

It would be up to you, the Slovak Parliament and Slovak society, how to implement measures linked to the fight against corruption in practice, said Gurria.

Both representatives also inked a memorandum of understanding to bolster cooperation in the fight against corruption.

The Slovak Cabinet Office specified that Slovakia has been developing a more intensive cooperation with the OECD in fighting corruption within the National Crime Agency (NAKA), as well as with a special expert commission to combat corruption.
The country dropped in an international ranking of talent competitiveness, though it has more potential.

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Slovakia loses its own talents and is unable to attract the foreign ones. This stems from the recent Talent Competitiveness Index report by staffing company Adecco, in which it fell by 10 positions to 37th place, the Hospodarske Noviny daily reported.

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The report measures the ability of countries to compete for talent and ranks over 100 countries according to their ability to grow, attract and retain talent. Slovakia reported worse results than most of the members of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

One of the reasons for such a state is the lack of innovation, according to Peter Kremsky, executive director of the Business Alliance of Slovakia.

Sergio Duarte, head of Adecco Slovakia, however, talked about the big potential for talent.

We see some reserves in the system of education and its connection to practice, Duarte said, as quoted by Hospodarske Noviny.

He recommends, among other things, to moderate conditions for the development of small and medium-sized enterprises and the establishment of talent companies.

Jiri Halbrstat from recruitment company Manpower highlights the fact that Slovakia remained in the first third of the list.

Education is at a high level in international comparison and there is a big interest in technical specialisations which the economy needs the most, Halbrstat told Hospodarske Noviny.

On the other hand, Slovakia loses talents due to low salaries compared with western countries, he added.

Another problem, stressed by Robert Chovanculiak of the economic think tank INESS, is that Slovak legislation is not set to attract talent.

For example, we increased the payroll-tax burden for talented people last year, which deters them from living and working in Slovakia," Chovanculiak told Hospodarske Noviny.
The new project is aims to open discussions on various topics related to politics and policy.

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Non-affiliated MP Miroslav Beblavy launched a new project Big Idea Slovakia in cooperation with the Progressive Slovakia initiative. They want to respond to the ideological emptiness of current Slovak politics and public discussion, which are often turned into a gladiator fight of people and offences, not ideas and proposals, the SITA newswire reported.

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The aim of the Big Idea Slovakia project is to open discussions on brave, fundamental, but real and necessary proposals, said Beblavy and Ivan Stefunko, head of Progressive Slovakia, as quoted by SITA.

The discussions should take place every month, focusing on different topics. This includes new and important ideas or concrete matters in public policies, they added. The participants will be mostly the representatives of both initiatives.

Read also:

Read also: Slovakia may have a new party Read more

Every event will be attended by the author of the proposal but also the respective opponent, Beblavy and Stefunko said, as quoted by SITA, adding that the events will have a form of sharp and open discussion.

They drew the inspiration from student debates that usually take place at Oxford.

The name of the initiative is derived from the official slogan of Slovakias new branding, Good Idea Slovakia which, according to Beblavy and Stefunko, sounds good but Slovakia does not do enough to fulfill it.

The first debate should take place on February 1, focusing on the proposal to scrap the current concept of eight self-governing regions, SITA reported.
A recently opened school helps build links between fashion and business.

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Slovakia has many talented fashion designers, but they often fail in promoting their products abroad. They are known mostly as producers, but not as creators of something new, say the representatives of the new fashion school which opened their doors to its first students in September 2016.

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MODSPE Paris Central Europe is the only subsidiary of its French mother in this region. It now educates 13 people in the fashion product manager specialisation, with the aim to fill the existing gap on the Slovak fashion market.

It is the only school in central Europe which is closely connected with fashion business, 19-year-old Petra Spakova from Harichovce told The Slovak Spectator when explaining the reasons for studying at the university.

She is one of the first students who started attending the school in September 2016.

Diplomas are the same

The subjects and lectors are exactly the same as in Paris, with the only exception  they are taught in English. Also the diplomas they receive after graduation have the same value.

The Parisians wanted to expand in central Europe particularly to start education in English, schools representative Silvia Pavekova told The Slovak Spectator.

Bratislava competed for the school with other capitals in the region. There were several factors that decided in its favour, including the proximity to France, the economic and safety situation, and the development on the fashion market, she explained.

The school opened its doors after some 3.5 years of preparations. It currently teaches subjects within a three-year bachelor degree. The students come mostly from Slovakia and the Czech Republic, but there is also one from Cyprus. They gradually plan to accept students from other countries, for example they have already accepted a student from Nigeria and one from Libya.

The number of students is expected to gradually increase from current 13 as the plan is to have about 50 students comprising the entire study programme, Pavekova said.

The school is open to everybody. Students are either secondary school graduates or people who already graduated from one university. This is supported by the age range. While the youngest student is 19 years old, the oldest is 36, according to Pavekova.

Gaining experience

The school is based on a dual education principle. The students receive theoretical knowledge in fashion culture, products and collections, as well as the basics of marketing, commerce and communication. At the end of every school year they need to participate in an internship directly in fashion companies.

Without it they cannot start the new school year, Pavekova said.

Since MODSPE Paris was founded by the Federation Francaise du Pret- a-Porter Feminin, the students can undergo practical training at one of the firms it associates with. In the end, they need to prove that they worked on a specific project for the firm and write a report about it, Pavekova explained.

The possibility to do an internship directly in companies and obtain new contacts is among the highlights mentioned by another student of the school, 28-year-old Hana Hanzelova from Znojmo in the Czech Republic.

The school is a connection between you and the employers, she told The Slovak Spectator.

The school can, among other things, boast with the high number of graduates who find work in their field of study within three months, according to the French statistics. This is also an added value for its graduates, including those who will complete the studies in Slovakia, said Pavekova.

Building the business

One of the schools aims is also to establish cooperation with Slovak companies, particularly those with French owners. Currently they are holding talks with some firms established in Bratislava, Pavekova said, adding they want to gradually extend the collaboration. They have also addressed some Slovak fashion designers who welcome this possibility, she added.

Though there are quality brands in Slovakia, not many of them are international and have exported to other countries. This, however, is expected to change soon, according to Pavekova.

We have here fashion students and young designers, but we lack people able to create the business, she added.

This is what they try to teach their students. The lectors at the school have several years of experience and try to solve the problems with the students from their own practice and experience.

It is more practical as you work on projects, do research, 22-year-old Maria Sole Urbanova from Bratislava told The Slovak Spectator, comparing the studies with Slovak universities which are more about theoretical knowledge.
Impact on Slovakia will be indirect via its main trade partners, especially Germany

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A so-called hard Brexit could hit Slovakias business partners, and that could subsequently cause a slowdown in the Slovak economy. Jan Toth, vice-governor of the National Bank of Slovakia (NBS) commented at the international Euromoney conference in Vienna on January 19 as cited by the TASR newswire. The NBS is likely to include the impact of the planned withdrawal of Great Britain from the EU in its next economic forecast.

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Weve so far factored in Brexit, but assumed that it would be carried out in its softer form, said Toth. If it takes place in a harder form, however, there would be a negative risk with respect to what weve determined so far.

At the moment it is too early to analyse it more deeply.

The only thing we do know is that it will probably have a worse impact than we thought, said Toth, adding that the final trade relation deal between the UK and the EU isnt yet known.

The NBS in its previous prognosis forecasted that Slovakias economic growth would slow down by 0.3 percent of GDP due to Britains departure from the EU.

The impact, however, could be rather closer to 0.5 percent of GDP, said Toth.

The most significant impact on Slovakia will not be direct, as exports from Slovakia to Britain represent only some 4 percent. The impact will be seen indirectly through a slowdown in growth among Slovakias trading partners, especially Germany, which exports to Britain to a greater extent.

Weaker growth in Germany could be reflected in Slovak exports, said Toth.

Read also:

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On Tuesday, January 17, British Prime Minister Theresa May in a speech on Brexit unveiled a tougher stance on Britains withdrawal from the EU. The hard Brexit prognosis includes the UKs giving up full access to the single market and full access to a customs union alongside the EU.
Rumours have circulated for some time that the Kosice plant of the U.S. Steel corporation could change owners. Now, the initiative of new US President, Donald Trump, makes these rumours even more acute.

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The steelworks in Kosice, currently owned by U.S. Steel, could change hands soon. The firm, which employs over 10,000 people in the east of Slovakia and indirectly via sub-suppliers a further 2,000, has been pondering a departure from Slovakia for some time. One of the reasons is the financial problem caused by cheap Chinese steel imported to Europe, the Pravda daily wrote on January 23.

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Another reason is Donald Trump, who is luring investors to return to the country with various tax reliefs. Trump promised to reduce the corporate tax in the US from the current 35 percent to 15 percent, and to stop new and abolish old red tape burdening the firms. He also plans to impose a corporate tax of 41 percent on US companies operating abroad.

US investments in Europe expected to be withdrawn

Economic analysts say that Trumps policy of imposing customs on products imported to the US will have serious impacts in the case of the countrys investments on the European continent. Trump openly declared he wants US firms to return home. The firms may need money to expand their US investments, which they may get by selling their activities abroad.

"With Trump, the chance of selling the plant to another owner has increased considerably in the case of U.S. Steel Kosice," economist of the Finlord company, Boris Tomciak, opined for Pravda. The mother company U.S. Steel wants to focus mostly on the American market.

U.S. Steel negotiated the sale of its Kosice steelworks already last autumn but Chinese, Czech and also Russian potential buyers refused to pay the price demanded, citing low prices of steel as the reason. After the EU imposed customs on Chinese steel, however, the price of this commodity has started to rise and thus the price of Kosice steelworks may also increase, according to Pravda.

This should, however, not have a fundamental impact on the whole Slovak economy, Tomciak told Pravda.
A total of 41 soldiers will be assigned to the Slovak unit.

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The NATO Forces Integration Unit Slovakia (NFIU SVK) was established at the Bratislava barracks located in Vajnory borough on January 24. While the opening ceremony was attended by several top NATO representatives, the media were not invited.

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The founding of NFIU SVK is part of the Readiness Action Plan that the Alliance greenlighted in response to the changing security environment on NATO borders, said Slovak Defence Minister Peter Gajdos (nominee of the Slovak National Party).

We perceive this organisational element as a contribution to national but also collective defence in terms of post-Wales summit security development, said Gajdos, as quoted by the TASR nwswire, adding that the primary task of the NFIU is to provide effective despatch of NATO forces on the eastern flank in case of need.

The NFIU SVK does not represent a NATO base in Slovakia, stressed Gajdos. Similar Integration Units have been established in seven other countries: Bulgaria, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Romania.

The main purpose of NFIU SVK is to provide support to NATO collective defence during the planning process, providing assistance to training and joint exercises and, if necessary, providing and coordinating the arrival of allied troops in a given region. A total of 41 soldiers will be assigned to the Slovak NFIU, with 21 posts earmarked for Slovakia and 20 for personnel from other countries.

The NFIU SVK reached its initial operational capability on January 1, 2017, meaning that, as of this date, it had met all organisational, administrative and technical criteria. Full capability is slated to be reached as of June 1, 2017, TASR wrote.

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Read also: Cabinet approves reconstruction of premises for NATO Read more

No media present

The opening ceremony was attended by NATO Assistant Secretary-General for Public Diplomacy Tacan Ildem, Deputy Chairman of the NATO Military Committee Lieutenant-General Steven M. Shepro and NATO Allied Joint Force commander General Salvatore Farina.

Ildem thanked the Slovak government and the citizens for supporting NATO and allowing NFIU to be established in Slovakia.

It is the idea, one for all and all for one, that keeps NATO strong, our people safe and our countries in peace, Ildem said, as quoted by the SITA newswire.

The whole event, however, was closed to the media. The Defence Ministry originally considered a public opening attended by journalists, which could have been perceived as an opportunity to promote the alliance with NATO that is supported also by the current government, the Dennik N daily reported.

Similar events have already taken place in the Baltic countries where the units have been opened in the past two years, always attended by journalists.

The Slovak media however were not allowed to attend and those who learned about the event were stopped by the military police on the driveway. The ministry explained that it is the complex itself which the public is not allowed to enter, Dennik N wrote.

The ministry decided to close the event after the scandal following the promotion of Slovak National Party chair Andrej Danko to captain, according to the daily. The ministry was reportedly afraid that journalists would have asked about the dubious promotion. Spokesperson for the Defence Ministry Danka Capakova however called it nonsense.
Slovakia should focus on the exercise of power rather than changing laws says report.

Protests in front of the Bonaparte residential house in Bratislava, held in connection with the Basternak case. (Source: Sme)

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Slovakia fell to 54th place in the Corruption Perceptions Index 2016 published by the ethics watchdog Transparency International. Though it kept the score of 51 points out of 100, it dropped by four positions compared with last years edition as the number of surveyed countries increased from 168 to 176.

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Slovakia ranked as the seventh worst country of the European Union, leaving only Croatia, Hungary, Romania, Italy, Greece and Bulgaria behind.

To improve its position, not change in legislation but rather the exercise of power will be the decisive factor, according to Transparency International.

The first year of the third Robert Fico government indicated that the fight against corruption will continue at a declarative rather than real level, Transparency International Slovensko (TIS) stated in a press release.

No top politician or businessperson was sentenced for corruption in 2016. On the contrary, the Basternak case and the termination notice submitted by former top investigator of the Gorilla case confirmed that equality before the law does not apply to people close to the ruling politicians.

With his statements and attitudes in both cases, Interior Minister Robert Kalinak even undermined the trustworthiness of police, the press release reads.

Presidency also raises suspicions

Slovakias Presidency of the EU Council was also surrounded by suspicions of nepotism pertaining to orders. Former employees of the Foreign Affairs Ministry, Zuzana Hlavkova and Pavol Szalai, who reported on the dubious practices, as well as journalists witnessed accusations and humiliation rather than a proper explanation of the practices, according to TIS.

The Foreign Affairs Ministry still illegally refuses to provide access to the crucial documents that would definitely confirm or disprove the suspicions, TIS wrote in the press release.

The watchdog also pointed to the law on the protection of whistleblowers adopted by the second Fico government (2012-2016) two years ago. The law not only has weak results, but also it was ignored in the case concerning the orders.

TIS also claims that the government neglects its own attempt to check the effectiveness of big state spending via the Value for Money initiative. It has been avoided during the discussion about the big investment into construction of the Presov bypass, for example.

On the other hand, the watchdog praised stricter rules introduced by the amendment to the anti-shell law.

To make it more effective, the government should actively lob for introducing a register of companies owners also in other EU countries, TIS wrote in the press release.

It also praised the draft amendment to the law on free access to information that should make it more effective and extend the right of people for information.
A high number of entrepreneurs expect conditions for doing business to worsen this year.

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Entrepreneurs do not consider the business environment in Slovakia favourable. They also do not expect their economic results will significantly change this year , according to a survey carried out by the Slovak Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SOPK) at the end of 2016 among its members.

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When comparing the expectations of respondents with the ones that appeared in the survey carried out in late 2015, the latest results indicate a slight shift towards more pessimistic predictions. The highest share of respondents expects their economic results will stagnate at 2016 levels, the TASR newswire reported.

Moreover, the number of respondents expecting conditions for doing business to worsen in 2017 increased slightly compared with the previous survey.

As for factors that will have the biggest impact on entrepreneurship, respondents chose domestic demand, followed by foreign demand and cost of labour force. The order has not changed since 2014, TASR wrote.

While some 7 percent of respondents consider the business environment in Slovakia favourable, up to 39 percent were not satisfied. Regarding long-term comparison, however, the share of businesspeople with positive evaluation has been increasing since 2013, while the share of those with negative perception has dropped, from 68 percent in 2013.

Meanwhile, the evaluation of the governments economic policies worsened in the 2016 survey compared with the previous one. Only 1 percent of respondents perceive it positively, while up to 47 percent are negative about them. SOPK warned that a relatively high number of respondents  45 percent  were neutral about the policies.

Regarding the measures to improve the business environment, entrepreneurs propose the government reduce tax and payroll tax burdens, improve law enforcement and reduce red tape.

Many respondents also expressed increased concern over the lack of a qualified labour force, TASR wrote.
Slovak soldiers will also attend about 40 exercises abroad in the first half of the year.

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More than 40 international trainings will take place in Slovakia in the first half of 2017. At the same time, Slovak soldiers will attend also about 40 trainings abroad, according to the document passed by the government at its January 25 session.

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The first international training held in Slovakia this year will be Ice Diver that will take place in February in Sered (Trnava Region). It will be attended by Slovak, Czech and Hungarian divers.

Moreover, Slovakia will welcome foreign pilots who will train, among other things, activities when attacking ground targets and refuelling during flight. They will also train on flight simulators Mi-17 and MiG-29.

Chemists from France, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Germany and Slovenia will arrive in Zemianske Kostolany (Trencin Region).

In addition, Slovak and US soldiers will attend the April exercise focused on development and training of tactical approaches of the special purpose units and headquarters of the special purpose units. A similar exercise will be held also in May, attended by Polish soldiers, SITA reported.

As for foreign trainings, about 200 Slovaks will attend the Brave Warrior 17 exercise held in Hungary in June, together with soldiers from other Visegrad Group countries.

Moreover, 150 Slovak soldiers will participate in the international exercise Saber Strike and Summer Shield in Latvia.

Before joining the EUNAVFOR MED SOPHIA operation, which focuses on fighting migrant smugglers in international waters, the soldiers will train in Germany.

The soldiers will also attend training sessions in the Czech Republic, Slovenia, Denmark, Austria, Estonia, Lithuania, Poland, Croatia and Bulgaria, SITA reported.
Slovakia declined four places against last year in the Variables for Sustainable Growth Index 2016.

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The KPMG Index evaluates the long-term outlook of economic performances of 180 countries worldwide, and Slovakia ended up 44th  third from among the Visegrad Group (Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary and Slovakia), behind both the Czech Republic and Poland.

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The authors of the study rate the openness of the economy, considering indices like the influx of direct foreign investments and the performance of foreign trade. For both 2015 and 2016, the score was 8.7 points out of a maximum of 10.

The biggest slump this year came in the pillar of human resources which includes factors like the ratio of people with elementary, secondary and university education, results of knowledge tests and the average lifespan. The last mentioned sphere is the weakest point of Slovak economic performance, KPMG cited in its study, pointing to the fact that it achieved only 4.1 point of a total 10  which is a huge decline against the previous year (7.2 point).

Our study shows that education is one of the most important catalysers for improving the productivity of the country, Simon Collins, chairman of the KPMG UK board, said. For example, France and Hong Kong made a great progress by improving their school systems, he added. However, this step requires considerable investments and securing cooperation between the government, business people and teachers, he concluded.

It is no secret that graduates from Slovak schools come to the market not prepared as well as employers would wish them; thus, the investment of companies in education and training is a must, according to KPMG.

I personally consider, however, this investment one of the key ones, as young people bring new energy and ideas to practice, which are irreplaceable, adds Lubos Vanco, chair of the Board of Partners of KPMG in Slovakia.

Results and factors

In the Variables for Sustainable Growth Index 2016 chart, Austria placed best from among Slovakia's neighbouring countries  defending its 19th place from 2015. The Czech Republic is 28th, Poland 38th and Hungary 53rd. The five best countries for 2016 are Switzerland, The Netherlands, Luxmebourg, Hong Kong and Norway.

The Index considers 21 spheres that can have important influence on future economic growth and wealth of the country; of the five pillars evaluated, the power of public institutions has the biggest impact on a countrys productivity, KPMG wrote.
Transportation

Department of Energy Awards Blue Bird $4.4 Million to Develop Electric School Bus

The United States Department of Energy is awarding Blue Bird Corporation, a bus manufacturer based in Fort Valley, GA, $4.4 million to develop a zero-emissions, 100 percent vehicle-to-grid (V2G) electric school bus.

The award is part of $15 million the energy department set aside late last year to accelerate the adoption of advanced and alternative fuel vehicles.

Thanks to this award from the Department of Energy, we will be able to pursue the development of this technology based on our many years of research, said Phil Horlock, president and CEO of Blue Bird Corporation, in a statement. As we celebrate our 90th anniversary in 2017, the timing of this grant is impeccable!

One of the stipulations of the award is that the bust must be an affordable, low cost electric bus solution. Additionally, Blue Bird is looking to implement V2G technology that will allow the bus to put electricity back into the grid  which may help bring much-needed funds to school districts.

The development of a low-cost electric school bus is an investment that could save state resources in the long term, said Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal in a statement. We are excited to see Blue Bird develop this new technology here in Georgia.

As a zero-emissions vehicle, this electric bus will be able to take away thousands of pounds of particulate matter from the air, making a positive impact on the environment and the children these buses transport.

According to Michael Simon, president and CEO of TransPower, a supplier of power and energy storage for the green economy, this electric bus solution could also create additional jobs throughout the United States. Once these electric buses go into production, there is a huge potential for job growth, he said in a statement. Supplying electric drive components for say, 500 buses as year, would have the potential to create up to 250 new jobs in California.

Combined with matching funds from other public and private entities in California, the total project funding will be more than $9 million and result in an eight bus demonstration fleet deployed in California by 2019.

Earlier this week, UC Irvine announced that it is converting its entire bus fleet to 20 new electric buses for the 2017-18 school year, making it the first college campus in the nation to scrap its traditional diesel fuel-powered fleet in favor of alternative energy transportation.

Founded in 1927, Blue Bird Corporation is a leading independent designer and manufacturer of school buses, with more than 550,000 buses sold since its formation and approximately 180,000 buses in operation today.

For more information about the company, visit Blue Birds website.
* Signs $125 mln defence equipment deal

* Cautions Ankara on post-coup rights record

* Says U.S. refugee policy up to Washington

* Wants trade deals for post-Brexit UK (Recasts)

By Elizabeth Piper and Tulay Karadeniz

ANKARA, Jan 28 (Reuters) - British Prime Minister Theresa May signed a $125 million fighter jet deal with Turkey on Saturday (Shenzhen: 002291.SZ - news) and briefly cautioned Ankara on human rights following last year's failed coup, in a visit squarely aimed at boosting trade between the NATO allies.

May, in Turkey a day after meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington, avoided criticising his sweeping ban on people from certain countries seeking refuge in the United (Shenzhen: 000925.SZ - news) States. She (Munich: SOQ.MU - news) visited both countries for the first time as prime minister, promoting trade deals that would strengthen her hand in talks to leave the European Union.

Speaking to reporters at the presidential palace in Ankara alongside President Tayyip Erdogan, May called Turkey one of Britain's oldest friends and touched on human rights, a sore point for Erdogan, who accuses the West of not showing enough solidarity following a July 15 military putsch attempt.

"I'm proud that the UK stood with you on the 15 July last year in defence of democracy and now it is important that Turkey sustains that democracy by maintaining the rule of law and upholding its international human rights obligations as the government has undertaken to do," she said.

Rights groups and some Western politicians have been more critical. More than 100,000 people have been sacked or suspended following the failed coup and some 40,000 jailed pending trial. Ankara says the measures are needed to root out supporters of the putsch.

At a joint news conference later with Prime Minister Binali Yildirim, May was asked more than once about Trump's sweeping ban on people seeking refuge in the United States. She said Washington was responsible for its own policies on refugees.

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May had previously said the nature of the "special relationship" between Britain and the United States meant the allies could speak frankly to each other when they disagreed.

In her Turkey visit, as in the United States, it was clear her priority was on securing trade. She said the UK and Turkey had agreed to form a joint working group for post-Brexit trade and would step up an aviation security programme.

'OPEN FOR BUSINESS'

The two countries signed a defence deal worth more than 100 million pounds ($125 million) to develop Turkish fighter jets.

May said the deal, which involves BAE Systems (LSE: BA.L - news) and TAI(Turkish Aerospace Industries) working together to develop the TF-X Turkish fighter programme, showed "Britain is a great, global, trading nation and that we are open for business".

Yildirim said the two countries plan to sign a free-trade deal once Britain leaves the European Union, while Erdogan told reporters that he discussed steps towards defence industry cooperation with May, and that he hoped to increase annual trade with Britain to $20 billion from $15.6 billion now.

May's government is keen to start laying the groundwork for bilateral trade agreements for when Britain leaves the European Union, a process that will take at least two years after triggering the formal divorce talks by the end of March.

The United Kingdom was the No. 2 destination for Turkish exports in 2015, buying $10.6 billion in goods, according to IMF trade data. Only Germany imports more from Turkey.

The countries also discussed the fight against militant groups. Yildirim said he requested legal action against supporters of the coup, who he said are active in Britain. (Additional reporting by Ece Toksabay; Writing by David Dolan; Editing by Ralph Boulton and Helen Popper)
BERLIN (Reuters) - About 40 mostly high-ranking Turkish soldiers who worked at NATO facilities in Germany but were suspended after the failed coup in Turkey in July have requested asylum in Germany, news magazine Der Spiegel and broadcaster ARD reported on Saturday. A spokeswoman for the German interior ministry confirmed that asylum applications had been received from Turkish military personnel, but had no comment on the exact numbers. She said each application would be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. No comment was immediately available from NATO officials. The reports of the asylum applications filed by Turkish soldiers in Germany came as Chancellor Angela Merkel prepared to travel to Turkey to meet President Tayyip Erdogan. Ties between the two NATO partners have been strained over issues including alleged spying by Turkish clerics in Germany, German concerns about Turkey's crackdown on dissidents, and Ankara's accusation that Berlin is harbouring militants from the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) and far-leftists of the DHKP-C. The report quoted officials of the German federal migration office and the interior ministry as saying that the asylum applications would be handled as all others. Norbert Roettgen, head of the parliamentary foreign affairs committee, told Spiegel that political considerations could not play a role in asylum cases. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told a conference in November that some Turkish military officers posted to NATO in Europe had requested asylum but gave no specific numbers. Reuters reported in October that Turkey had fired hundreds of senior military staff serving at NATO in Europe and the United States after the coup. Most were recalled to Turkey, but some chose not to return, fearing reprisals. Greece's Supreme Court ruled this week against the extradition of eight Turkish soldiers who fled to Greece in July after the abortive coup. (Reporting by Andrea Shalal; Editing by Ralph Boulton)
By Nina Chestney LONDON (Reuters) - British plans to leave the European Atomic Energy Community (Euratom) when it exits the European Union could raise costs, delay new nuclear power projects and complicate research and international cooperation agreements, experts said on Friday. On Thursday, Britain published the legislation it will use to seek parliamentary approval for triggering the process for leaving the European Union, saying the Prime Minister has the power to notify the European Council of withdrawal. That includes withdrawal from Euratom, an accompanying document to the bill said. Britain plans to build new nuclear reactors as it faces an electricity supply gap in the coming decade, the biggest of which is the $24 billion Hinkley Point C project being built by French utility EDF. "Clearly this is something which could impact the industry's complex supply chain and it may well have an impact on Hinkley Point," said Anthony Froggart, senior research fellow at thinktank Chatham House. He added that EDF has already raised concerns to the UK government about the impact of Brexit on labour movement and trade restrictions which could potentially raise the cost of construction. In December, EDF said that Britain should "ideally" remain in Euratom, because it provides a framework for compliance with international safeguards to control the use of uranium and plutonium. "None of the current new-build projects in the UK are British designs, and most are reliant on foreign technology that is accessible only via the existing bilateral treaties through Euratom," said Vince Zabielski, senior lawyer at Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman. "If the U.K. leaves Euratom before new stand-alone nuclear cooperation treaties are negotiated with France and the United States, current new build projects will be placed on hold while those stand-alone treaties are negotiated," he added. Europe's nuclear lobby group Foratom said Britain will need to negotiate transitional agreements with its partners in Europe if it leaves Euratom. "The U.K. should remain a member of Euratom until these arrangements are put in place," it said. Britain also has several international nuclear cooperation agreements with countries outside the EU which are reliant on Euratom safeguards being in place. Japan's Toshiba and France's Engie, through a joint venture called NuGen, plan to build three reactors in Britain from U.S.-based Westinghouse, while Horizon, owned by Japan's Hitachi, also plans new nuclear capacity. A spokesman for Horizon said withdrawal from Euratom would present issues which would need to be addressed but the firm is confident they can be resolved so they deliver their lead project on time. Toshiba said on Friday it would review its struggling nuclear operation, without mentioning the NuGen project. Euratom is the EU's framework for nuclear energy safety and development, establishing a European market for goods and services and compliance with international nuclear safeguards. Euratom was formed before the EU in 1957. Although it is legally separate from the EU, it has the same members and is governed by EU institutions. The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy said the government is confident it can ensure effective arrangements for nuclear cooperation with Europe and the rest of the world. (Additional reporting by Susanna Twidale; Editing by Ruth Pitchford)
The Independent

Manchester City's manager has hailed Rico Lewis for becoming the club's youngest Champions League goalscorer. Pep Guardiola said the teenager has "something special," and is "so clever, so intelligent."At just 17 years old, the defender who has been training with the club since he was eight scored against Sevilla in their winning game on Wednesday, 2 November. Guardiola said that the player has earned his place on the pitch, and they don't "give presents" just because he came from the academy. Source: PA
13 injured in road accident in Sindhuli

As many as 13 passengers were injured in a jeep accident at Dhanmana Hile, Bhadrakali VDC-4 in Sindhuli district on Saturday.
By Philip Pullella VATICAN CITY (Reuters) - On the afternoon of Jan. 24, a black BMW pulled out of a 16th century palace in Rome, crossed the Tiber River and headed for the Vatican, a short trip to end a brazen challenge to the authority of Pope Francis. Inside the car was 67-year-old Englishman Matthew Festing, the head of an ancient Catholic order of knights which is now a worldwide charity with a unique diplomatic status. Festing was about to resign, the first leader in several centuries of the Order of Malta, which was founded in 1048 to provide medical aid for pilgrims in the Holy Land, to step down instead of ruling for life. The move was aimed at ending a highly-public spat between Festing and the reformist pope over the running of the chivalric institution. The weeks-long conflict had become one of the biggest internal challenges yet to Francis' efforts to modernize the 1.2 billion member Roman Catholic Church. At issue was the Order's reaction to the discovery that condoms had been distributed by one of its aid projects in Myanmar. The Order had fired its Grand Chancellor, Albrecht Freiherr von Boeselager, whom it held responsible for the condom distribution. Von Boeselager declined to comment for this article. Though condom use goes against Catholic teaching, the Vatican had ordered an investigation into the firing of von Boeselager. It subsequently publicly castigated Festing, who had refused to cooperate with the investigation. Backing down, Festing -- a former Sotheby's art auctioneer -- gave a hand-written resignation letter to Francis in the pope's private residence, according to a senior Vatican source. Festing, who has the title of prince, declined an interview request. Instead of quelling the conflict, however, Festing's resignation was followed by yet another challenge to Francis' authority -- led by vocal pope critic American Cardinal Raymond Leo Burke, according to Vatican and Knights sources. In particular: Burke tried to convince Festing to withdraw his resignation and keep fighting the pope, these sources say. On Saturday, the Knight's Sovereign Council accepted Festing's resignation and re-instated von Boselager, a clear defeat for Burke. Burke declined to comment for this article. The tussle suggested Francis is still battling to consolidate his power over the Church almost four years into his tenure, Vatican insiders say. Beyond a fight over condoms, the clash pointed to lingering divisions between the Church's conservatives and more progressive factions who support the pope's reformist agenda, they add. Francis is trying to make the Church less dogmatic and more welcoming to whose who have felt excluded, such as homosexuals and the divorced. "While this whole saga was an internal matter that probably should have stayed that way, it metamorphosed into a clash that showed the divide between conservatives and progressives," said Andrea Tornielli, author of several books on Pope Francis. The Vatican declined to comment on the clash and on Pope Francis' efforts to consolidate his power. It directed Reuters to two public statements. One, on Dec. 22, relates to the Vatican order to investigate the firing of von Boeselager. The second, on Jan. 17, followed a pledge by Festing on the Knights' web page not to cooperate with the Vatican. It decried his resistance and ordered members of the order to cooperate. GERMAN ARISTOCRAT The all-male top leaders of the Knights of Malta are not clerics, but they take vows of poverty, chastity and obedience to the pope. A German aristocrat whose father participated in a failed plot to kill Hitler in World War Two, von Boeselager was fired by Festing in December, and accused of having allowed the use of condoms while he was head of the Knights' global humanitarian projects. Festing fired him in Burke's presence, arguing that the German had hidden the condom use from the order's leaders when he was named Grand Chancellor, according to Knights and Vatican sources. Immediately, the firing set off the conflict between the Knights' hierarchy and the Vatican. Von Boeselager , a devout Catholic, said in a statement on Dec. 23 that he was fully behind Church teachings. He closed two projects in the developing world when he discovered condoms were being distributed but kept a third running in Myanmar for a while because closing it would have abruptly ended all basic medical services to poor people. The Church does not allow condoms as a means of birth control and says abstinence and monogamy in heterosexual marriage is the best way to stop the spread of AIDS. In the same statement, von Boeselager said Festing and Burke told him the Vatican wanted him to resign and that there would be "severe consequences" for the Order if he did not. The Vatican denied, in a letter from its secretary of state to the Order and seen by Reuters, that it had mandated the resignation, saying it had told the Knights the pope wanted a solution through dialogue. The German said his sacking was against the Knights' constitution and appealed to the pope, who ordered the investigation. Festing refused to cooperate, issuing a series of increasingly strident public statements. In one, he called the papal commission that was investigating the firing "legally irrelevant". In a Jan. 14 confidential letter to the top echelons of the order and seen by Reuters, Festing wrote: "In refusing to acknowledge this group of people's jurisdiction, I am trying to protect the order's sovereignty". The institution has the status of a sovereign entity, maintaining diplomatic relations with over 100 states and the European Union and permanent observer status at the United Nations. The pope was irritated by Festing's defiant stand, a senior Vatican source said, and the Vatican shot back with a public statement ordering the Knights to obey. After that public order, Festing changed his tune and resigned in the pope's residence a week later. Festing's resignation came as a shock for many inside the Knights: some of them told Reuters it was akin to the resignation of Pope Benedict in 2013. Four sources said that for many others in the order, it came as a relief. They feared the clash was damaging the image of the institution whose 13,000 members, 80,000 volunteers and 20,000 paid medical staff help the neediest around the world. The day after Festing handed his resignation to the pope, Cardinal Burke drove to the order's headquarters from his apartment near the Vatican and sought to persuade Festing to withdraw his resignation, a source from the Vatican and one from the Knights said. Burke declined to comment on his meeting with Festing. Burke has long been leading challenges against the pope. Pope Francis demoted him from a top Vatican job in 2014 with no official explanation and assigned him to be the "patron" of the Order of Malta. Such "patron" positions are usually given to older cardinals after they retire at 75. Burke was only 66 then and the demotion was widely seen as a sign of the pope's irritation with the cardinal's constant sniping over Francis reforms. In particular, Burke has contested moves by the pope that would allow Catholics who have divorced and re-married outside the Church without an annulment to return to the sacrament of communion. Burke declined to comment on his demotion. Since the demotion, Burke has become even more of a rallying point for conservatives, flying around the world to give lectures to conservative groups and often giving interviews criticising the pope's decisions. In November, he led a rare public challenge to the pope with three other cardinals who accused the pontiff of sowing confusion on important moral issues such as that of communion for the divorced. Burke later said in an interview that if the pope did not respond to their letter, the cardinals might need to "correct" the pope themselves for the good of the Church. The Vatican did not comment on the uprising at the time but many of the pope's supporters publicly criticised the four cardinals. The pope will now appoint a "pontifical delegate" to help run the order, at least until elections can be held for a new Grand Master. In a personal letter to the Sovereign Council on Jan. 27 and seen by Reuters, Francis made clear that the Vatican did not want to interfere with the Order's sovereignty but said his delegate would seek to "renew the spirituality of the Order, specifically of those members who take vows." (Editing by Mark Bendeich, Philippa Fletcher and Alessandra Galloni)
ABIDJAN (Reuters) - Senegalese police said on Friday that they had arrested General Bora Colley, the man who ran Gambia's prisons, where human rights groups say perceived opponents were tortured and in some cases died. Colley was made the director of prisons by Gambia's former leader, Yahya Jammeh, who lost an election last month but refused to step down. Jammeh fled into exile in Equatorial Guinea last week as a West African regional military force stood poised to remove him. Senegal surrounds tiny Gambia on three sides, and it spearheaded the operation to install opposition figure Adama Barrow, the election winner. Its police reinforced border checks following Jammeh's departure. "These checks led to, among other results, the arrest on Jan. 25, 2017, of Gambian General Bora Colley by police at the border checkpoint in Mpack as he attempted to enter Guinea-Bissau," the police said in a statement. Colley was later handed over to Senegalese military authorities, it said. Neither Colley nor any of his associates could be reached for comment. Jammeh seized power in a 1994 coup and ruled Gambia for 22 years. His regime grew increasingly brutal and his election defeat, which he initially acknowledged before a dramatic reversal a week later, was celebrated across the country. Colley served as commander of the military camp in Jammeh's home village of Kanilai. He was appointed director of Gambia's prisons in 2012. Human Rights Watch accused Jammeh's government of forced disappearances, arbitrary detention, and the torture of journalists, human rights activists, political opponents and critics. Gay, lesbian and transgender people were also targeted. Many of those abuses were committed in jails, including the notorious Mile 2 Central Prison in the capital, Banjul. More than 90 opposition members were jailed following a wave of peaceful protests that began last April. Two died while in custody. U.N. officials, who were allowed into the country for the first time in 2014, found that "torture is a consistent practice" and "avoiding arrest is a necessary preoccupation for Gambian citizens". (Reporting by Joe Bavier, Emma Farge and Edward McAllister; Writing by Joe Bavier; Editing by Larry King)
By Kim Daewoung PYEONGCHANG, South Korea (Reuters) - South Korean and U.S. Marines are conducting military exercises on ski slopes in sub-freezing temperatures, including shirtless hand-to-hand combat in the snow, prompting warnings of retaliation from North Korea over "madcap mid-winter" drills. More than 300 Marines are taking part, simulating combat on the ski slopes of Pyeongchang, host of the 2018 Winter Olympics, amid speculation North Korea could be planning another missile test in defiance of U.N. resolutions. "U.S. Marine Corps and ROK (Republic of Korea) Marine Corps partnered together at every level to build a camaraderie and friendship of the two countries militaries but also to increase our proficiency in the event where we have to fight a war together," U.S. Captain Marcus Carlstrom told reporters. The training began on Jan. 15 and ends on Feb. 3 in Pyeongchang, about 180 km (115 miles) east of Seoul. About 28,500 U.S. troops are stationed in South Korea in joint defence against North Korea, which is under U.N. sanctions over a series of nuclear and missile tests and which regularly threatens to destroy the South and the United States. Poverty-stricken, reclusive North Korea and the rich, democratic South are technically still at war because their 1950-53 conflict ended in a truce, not a peace treaty. James Mattis, in his confirmation hearing as U.S. defence secretary, described "the Pacific theatre" as a priority and analysts expect new U.S. military spending under President Donald Trump to strengthen the U.S. presence in Asia. Topping U.S. concerns in the region are North Korea's nuclear weapons and missile programmes and China's military moves in the South China Sea. North Korean media was dismissive of the exercises, but warned of retaliation. "The colonial puppet forces, no more than a rabble, are keen on escalating the tension and the moves to ignite a war at a time when even their American master is at a loss how to cope with the DPRK's powerful nuclear deterrent," North Korea's Minju Joson newspaper, quoted by the KCNA news agency, said. "... If the south Korean warmongers ignite a war against the DPRK, totally counting on the U.S., the revolutionary forces of the DPRK will wipe out the aggressors to the last man by fully displaying their tremendous might ..." DPRK stands for Democratic People's Republic of Korea, North Korea's official name. Acting South Korean President Hwang Kyo-ahn said on Monday the deployment of a U.S. anti-missile defence system should not be delayed in the face of the growing North Korean nuclear missile threat. South Korean Defence Minister Han Min-koo said on Friday North Korea's nuclear weapons and missiles were "a direct and substantive threat" and ordered thorough military readiness, Yonhap News Agency said. (Additional reporting by Nataly Pak in Seoul; Writing by Hyunyoung Yi and Nick Macfie; Editing by Paul Tait)
By Phil Stewart WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Donald Trump's push to create safe zones in Syria could force him to make some risky decisions about how far to go to protect refugees, including shooting down Syrian or Russian aircraft or committing thousands of U.S. troops, experts said. Trump said on Wednesday he "will absolutely do safe zones in Syria" for refugees fleeing violence. According to a document seen by Reuters, he is expected in the coming days to order the Pentagon and the State Department to draft a plan to create such zones in Syria and nearby nations. The document did not spell out what would make a safe zone "safe" and whether it would protect refugees only from threats on the ground - such as jihadist fighters - or whether Trump envisions a no-fly zone policed by America and its allies. If it is a no-fly zone, without negotiating some agreement with Russia Trump would have to decide whether to give the U.S. military the authority to shoot down Syrian or Russian aircraft if they posed a threat to people in that zone, which his predecessor, former President Barack Obama, refused to do. "This essentially boils down to a willingness to go to war to protect refugees," said Jim Phillips, a Middle East expert at the Heritage Foundation think-tank in Washington, noting Russia's advanced air defenses. Trump promised during his campaign to target jihadists from Islamic State, and he has sought to avoid being dragged deeper into Syria's conflict - raising the question of whether he might be satisfied by assurances, perhaps from Moscow, that neither Russian nor Syrian jets would target the zone. In Moscow, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Trump did not consult with Russia and warned that the consequences of such a plan "ought to be weighed up." "It is important that this (the plan) does not exacerbate the situation with refugees," he said. Phillips and other experts, including former U.S. officials, said many refugees would not be satisfied by assurances from Moscow, while any deal with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, who also is backed by Iran, might not go over well with America's Arab allies. The Pentagon declined comment on Thursday, saying no formal directive to develop such plans had been handed down yet, and some U.S. military officials appeared unaware of the document before seeing it described in the media on Wednesday. "Our department right now is tasked with one thing in Syria, and that is to degrade and defeat ISIS," said Captain Jeff Davis, a Pentagon spokesman. TENS OF THOUSANDS OF TROOPS Trump's call for a plan for safe zones is part of a larger directive expected to be signed in coming days that includes a temporary ban on most refugees to the United States and a suspension of visas for citizens of Syria and six other Middle Eastern and African countries deemed to pose a terrorism threat. During and after the presidential campaign, Trump called for no-fly zones to harbor Syrian refugees as an alternative to allowing them into the United States. Trump accused the Obama administration of failing to screen Syrian immigrants entering the United States to ensure they had no militant ties. Any safe zone in Syria guaranteed by the United States would almost certainly require some degree of U.S. military protection. Securing the ground alone would require thousands of troops, former U.S. officials and experts say. Anthony Cordesman, a military expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies think tank, cautioned that a safe zone inside Syria could become a diplomatic albatross that would force a Trump administration to juggle a host of ethnic and political tensions in Syria indefinitely. Other experts said jihadists could be attracted to the zone, either to carry out attacks that would embarrass the United States or to use the zone as a safe haven where militants could regroup. Such a zone also would be expensive, given the need to house, feed, educate and provide medical care to the refugees. "I think these people really have no idea what it takes to support 25,000 people, which is really a small number, in terms of the (internally displaced) and refugees" in Syria, Cordesman said. The draft document gave no details on what would constitute a safe zone, where one might be set up and who would defend it. Jordan, Turkey and other neighboring countries already host millions of Syrian refugees. The Turkish government pressed Obama, without success, to create a no-fly zone on Syria's border with Turkey but now is at odds with Washington over its support for Kurdish fighters in Syria. (Reporting by Phil Stewart; additional reporting by Rodrigo Campos; editing by John Walcott and Cynthia Osterman)
George Kanan wins Aussie Millions Tournament of Champions (AUD$51,000)

January 28 2017 Frank Op de Woerd

The Tournament of Champions was another tournament with a twist. It was open to everyone, but former Aussie Millions Main Event champions would play rake free.

The single reentry event attracted a field of 203, resulting in a big prize pool of AUD$208,075. The top 24 of those would finish in the money.

With the added bonus of not having to pay any rake, the event saw four entries by former champions. 2011 Aussie Millions champion David Gorr, 2016 winner Ari Engel and 2015 victor Manny Stavropoulos all entered, with the latter giving it another go after busting out early.

The final table was an international gathering with, besides the German, also hosting players from Canada, Finland, the United States and New Zealand.

Unfortunately for all three of them, their rake free entry did not result in a paid spot. They all busted before the money.

Local player Matt Rolfe would bubble the final table, going home in 11th place for AUD$3,640.

One of the first players to exit the final table was Martin Finger, the German European Poker Tour champion and regular high roller participant departed in ninth place for AUD$5,200.

The final table was an international gathering with, besides the German, also hosting players from Canada, Finland, the United States and New Zealand.

Despite their best efforts, the players from overseas did not make it to the heads up as the mano-a-mano battle would be one between two Aussies. George Kanan from Sydney went head to head with David Loonstra from Melbourne for the first place prize of AUD$51,000. Kanan would end up supreme, beating Loonstra in second who had to settle for AUD$33,300.

Position Player Country Prize 1 George Kanan Australia AUD$51,000 2 David Loonstra Australia AUD$33,300 3 Jack Efaraimo New Zealand AUD$21,430 4 Francis John Rusnak United States AUD$16,645 5 Matti Konttinen Finland AUD$13,525 6 Amit Shorey Australia AUD$10,925 7 Glen Chadwick Australia AUD$8,840
SANTA FE  A power struggle that could linger throughout the 60-day legislative session rippled through the Roundhouse on Friday, as Gov. Susana Martinez vetoed an appropriations bill that would have provided emergency funding for New Mexico courts and money to cover the session expenses.

The two-term Republican governors veto came just hours after the Democratic-controlled House passed the legislation on a party-line 37-32 vote and means lawmakers will have to start over next week on a new funding bill.

In the meantime, legislators will not receive their per diem and legislative staffers will not be paid.

New Mexico lawmakers do not receive a salary, but they do get a per diem  currently set at $164  thats intended to cover daily food and lodging expenses.

In her veto message, Martinez called the bill a thinly veiled attempt to increase funding for the Legislature, while using the cash-strapped courts as a cover.

At a time when some legislators are talking about raising taxes on hardworking families, it is unacceptable to have one branch of government refusing to share the responsibility of reducing government spending, the governor wrote.

In response, Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth, D-Santa Fe, called the governors veto reckless and said it could have serious repercussions.

As a result of her action, juries will not be funded, criminal cases will be dismissed, and some criminals will walk free, Wirth said.

He also said the legislative branch had already absorbed cuts during the state budget crunch.

In all, the vetoed bill, Senate Bill 176, would have appropriated about $8.9 million for the expenses of the 60-day session that started last week  less than what was originally appropriated for the 2015 legislative session, but about $1.7 million more than was ultimately spent that year.

The bill also contained more than $900,000 in emergency funding for the courts, which would have been used to replenish a juror and interpreter fund, avoid furloughs at the state Supreme Court, and restore normal operating hours at the 12th Judicial District Court in Otero and Lincoln counties.

Supreme Court Chief Justice Charles Daniels told lawmakers last week that the states judicial system is in crisis and on the brink of failing to meet its constitutional requirements.

The bill vetoed Friday also included $200,000 to cover a budget shortfall at the Aging and Long-Term Services Department.

Typically, the feed bill for covering legislative session expenses is a standalone bill, but the Senate  with bipartisan backing  opted earlier this week to tack the emergency funding for courts and one state agency onto the legislation.

Majority House Democrats then moved the bill quickly, a move that left House Republicans fuming, as the House had previously approved its own separate version of a feed bill with no money for the courts.

I think its a political ploy to get around the rules, Rep. Sarah Maestas Barnes, R-Albuquerque, said at one point during Fridays debate, which stretched for nearly three hours.

But majority House Democrats defended the legislation, calling it vital for the legislative and judicial branches to keep functioning despite an ongoing revenue downturn thats already prompted steep budget cuts.

I think theres a deliberate attempt to starve state government, said Rep. Antonio Moe Maestas, D-Albuquerque. If we cant fund the judiciary, how are we going to fund roads?
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Cabinet decides to host Bimstec Summit this year

Nepal has decided to host the fourth Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (Bimstec) Summit this year.
Publisher W.P. Lang today announced the appointment of Karen Moses, who has served as managing editor of the Albuquerque Journal since 2001, as editor of the newspaper beginning Feb. 1.

Moses succeeds Kent Walz, who is retiring from the position after 22 years. Walz, 66, will continue at the Journal in a senior editor role.

Lang also announced that Editorial Page Editor Dan Herrera will move to the managing editor position now held by Moses and that DVal Westphal will become editorial page editor.

Moses joined the Journal staff in 1981 after working as a reporter in the northern suburbs of Chicago, and as a reporter and a regional editor at the Gallup Independent. At the Journal, her roles have included city editor and assistant managing editor.

Karen is a talented journalist with deep roots in New Mexico, Lang said. She has done so much good work over the years and we are pleased to have her move into this new leadership role as we continue our commitment to the printed newspaper at the same time we expand and improve our digital products.

Moses, 61, a University of New Mexico journalism graduate, serves on the board of the UNM Alumni Association and is incoming president of the New Mexico Foundation for Open Government. She also is past president of the New Mexico Press Association and a member of the New Mexico International Womens Forum.

Herrera, 60, is an Albuquerque native and a graduate of West Mesa High School and the University of New Mexico with a journalism degree. His newspaper career has included positions at The New Mexican newspaper in Santa Fe, the Kansas City Times and the Modesto Bee, where he was Metro editor before joining the Journal staff in 1995. During his time at the Journal, Dan has been Arts editor and an assistant managing editor. He became editorial page editor in 2009.

Westphal, 52, has been assistant editorial page editor since 2007. She joined the Journal in 1989 as a copy editor after working at the Las Cruces Sun-News and a bilingual newspaper in South Tucson, Ariz. She has an MA in journalism from the University of Arizona and a Ph.d in American Studies from the University of New Mexico. She served as the Journals copy desk chief before moving to the editorial page.

Moses, Herrera and Westphal are all graduates of Leadership New Mexico.

Also playing key roles in the Journals leadership team are Assistant Managing Editor Joe Kirby, who oversees the papers photography and design, and Assistant Managing Editor Donn Friedman, who oversees the technology needs of the newsroom

This is an exceptional newsroom leadership team, Lang said. They have all done great work for our readers and they will continue to do so.

He commended Walz, a Silver City native and UNM Law School graduate, for raising the Journals profile and influence in the community. Under Walz leadership, the Journal has excelled in its in-depth investigative reports, watchdog journalism, community reporting and insightful editorials, he said.

Lang said Walz will work in key areas including the editorial board, community outreach and investigative projects.

We respect Kents decision, but we are pleased he will continue to make important contributions to the Journal, Lang said.
Protesters rally against speaker Milo Yiannopoulos.at UNM Friday night. (Robert Browman/Journal) Protesters rally against speaker Milo Yiannopoulos at UNM Friday night. A protester is handcuffed by BCSO deputies during a rally against speaker Milo Yiannopoulos at UNM Friday night. (Robert Browman/Journal) Protesters face off against Bernalillo County Sheriff's deputies during a rally against speaker Milo Yiannopoulos at UNM Friday night. (Robert Browman/Journal) Controversial speaker Milo Yiannopoulos takes the stage at the University of New Mexico Friday evening. (Roberto E. Rosales/Journal) A protester is handcuffed by officers during a rally against speaker Milo Yiannopoulos at UNM Friday night. (Nicole Perez/Journal) Protesters rally against speaker Milo Yiannopoulos at UNM Friday night. (Roberto E. Rosales/Journal) Controversial speaker Milo Yiannopoulos takes the stage at the University of New Mexico Friday evening. (Roberto E. Rosales/Journal) Protesters face off against officers during a rally against speaker Milo Yiannopoulos at UNM Friday night. (Robert Browman/Journal) Protesters rally against speaker Milo Yiannopoulos at UNM Friday night. Hundreds of protesters face off with deputies during Milo Yiannopoulos speech. (Robert Browman/Journal) Protesters rally against speaker Milo Yiannopoulos at UNM Friday night. Attendees look on as controversial speaker Milo Yiannopoulos takes the stage at the University of New Mexico Friday evening. (Roberto E. Rosales/Journal) Police officers and protesters at the University of New Mexico before Milo Yiannopoulos was set to speak Friday. (Roberto E. Rosales/Journal) Protesters gather outside the University of New Mexico's Student Union Building before Milo Yiannopoulos was set to speak. (Roberto E. Rosales/Journal) Controversial speaker Milo Yiannopoulos takes the stage at the University of New Mexico Friday evening. (Roberto E. Rosales/Journal) Protesters rally against speaker Milo Yiannopoulos at UNM Friday night. Controversial speaker Milo Yiannopoulos takes the stage at the University of New Mexico Friday evening. (Roberto E. Rosales/Journal) A woman is escorted out of a ballroom in UNM's student undion building during an event held by controversial speaker Milo Yiannopoulos. (Roberto E. Rosales/Journal) Prev 1 of 19 Next

Officers in riot gear broke up a large protest against controversial speaker Milo Yiannopoulos at the University of New Mexico campus Friday evening.

Around 250 protesters gathered outside the Student Union Building, where Yiannopoulos was speaking, chanting (expletive) white supremacy, among other things. At one point, protesters banged against the doors of the SUB.

Several people left or were escorted out of the event by police. At several points, hecklers shouted while Yiannopoulos spoke.

But hundreds of others cheered as Yiannopoulos talked about topics including President Donald Trump, the wall on the Mexican border that the president has said he will build or a ban on Muslim immigrants.

Illegal people arent a race; theyre people who dont belong in your country, Yiannopoulos said at one point during the speech.

Yiannopoulos, who is gay, visited the campus Friday as part of his Dangerous Faggot Tour. He has written articles for the far-right Breitbart News with headlines such as Theres No Hiring Bias Against Women in Tech, They Just Suck at Interviews and was permanently banned from Twitter in connection with a harassment campaign that included racist insults directed at actress Leslie Jones.

In between lewd sexual jokes, the crowd responded positively to Yiannopoulos talking points that included slamming the political left for labeling people as racists. He at one point encouraged the audience to purge your local illegals by reporting undocumented immigrants to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

He also encouraged Americans to reject Islam, and praised acting president Chaouki Abdallah for supporting free speech.

At different points, members of the audience heckled Yiannopoulos. A woman wearing a hijab shouted at him when he argued that women in Islam are treated unfairly. She was escorted out by police and the crowd cheered.

The police escorted out about a half-dozen people from the SUB ballroom.

A self-described Yiannopoulos fan, Tanner Pelfrey, 19, said he doesnt agree with all of Milos beliefs, but that he likes watching people get riled up. It was common for people to say they didnt agree with all of Yiannopoulos beliefs but that he was entertaining.

But not everyone in the audience came to support Yiannopoulos.

Serene Akkad, 21, of the Muslim student association, and Deemah Al-Omari, 18, both young women wearing hijabs, said they attended the event in a form of protest. They said they wanted to show Yiannopoulos he doesnt faze them. Both left during the speech.

Outside the SUB, Bernalillo County Sheriffs Office deputies in riot gear and on horses pushed the crowd back, saying over a loudspeaker this is an unlawful assembly. One of the deputies held a beanbag shotgun and pointed it at protesters near the police line. They threatened to use chemical munitions on protesters if they didnt obey.

In return, the crowd chanted, peaceful protest, not a riot. Some members of the crowd asked deputies where they could go to continue to protest.

Felicia Romero, a spokeswoman for BCSO, said the assembly was unlawful because some sort of pyrotechnics were used by the crowd against officers. She later referred comment to New Mexico State Police, saying BCSO was only an assisting agency.

State Police Sgt. Chad Pierce said a few people were detained during the protest, but said he didnt know if any of those people were facing criminal charges.

On the north side of the SUB, protesters banged chairs on top of the outdoor tables until deputies on horseback moved them down the steps.

The protests had dissipated by 8:15, and those who attended Yiannopoulos speech were allowed to leave the event that included a question-and-answer session after the talk.

There was some question if Yiannopoulos would be able to speak in connection to security fees, The administration ultimately suspended the policy connected to those fees, opening the door for the Friday event.

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Heres a thought. Maybe weve been going about trying to reduce the rising murder rate in this country the wrong way.

Maybe, instead of taking an aerial view of the problem, we should have been looking at things from down at the street-level. Analyzing crime reports neighborhood by neighborhood to specifically target the simmering pockets from which deadly violence erupts.

The Guardian Newspaper has published a major piece of investigative journalism that does just that.

A team of reporters charted the location of each of Americas more than 13,000 gun homicides in 2015, the latest available figures. They concluded that half of all gun murders occurred in just 127 American cities.

And then they drilled down to study each census tract, the specific areas within neighborhoods that had endured multiple gun-related murders.

In other words, they laser-focused in on the places that incubate crime.

And if they were laid side by side, the Guardian reports, these worst-of-the-worst U.S. crime spots would fit into an area just 42 miles wide by 42 miles long.

This is said to be the first time gun homicides have been so meticulously mapped down to the census tract level.

Were constantly inundated with reports about crime ridden cities like Chicago, Baltimore, Detroit, Milwaukee and St. Louis, to name just a few. But it is clear from this geographic analysis that whole cities are not engulfed in violence, nor are whole neighborhoods.

Rather, deadly crime is concentrated within a small slice of territory where a tiny part of the population acts in criminal ways and, thereby, infects the peace and security of everyone.

Two cases highlight this point.

In pockets of Oakland, Calif., it was discovered that a group of about 1,200 criminals perpetrated most of the violence. In New Orleans, fewer than 700 people, less than 1 percent of the population, were responsible for more than half the murders.

This begs the question, why cant law enforcement do more to target those individual career criminals, charge them with crimes and get them off the street? Gee, when the feds couldnt get Al Capone for murder, they got creative and, at least, charged him with tax evasion.

Im betting that if cops and prosecutors put their heads together more often, there would be more of these unsavory characters successfully put behind bars.

David Weisburd, Director of the Center for Evidence-Based Crime Policy at George Mason University, suggests much more attention should be paid to todays micro-geographic hot spots. He writes often about the criminology of place and indicates that if more attention was paid to these places, the nations crime rate could be dramatically reduced.

Of course, none of this is new to professional criminologists or veteran law enforcement officers. But I have to wonder if politicians get it. You know, those elected officials who rail on about debatable, wide-ranging solutions to gun crimes and seem to appear only after yet another random mass shooting.

These days, our national conversation on crime seems to revolve only around officer-involved shootings and more gun control laws. Theres very little discussion about ways to control the thugs who use guns in the commission of a crime.

And I also have to wonder why the FBI collects gun murder information only from the city level, not the micro-geographic neighborhood level, as the Guardian took the time to do. Wouldnt that give lawmakers a more clear-cut idea of where crime fighting money should be allocated?

Everyone has an opinion about what causes a violence infested part of town: poverty, lack of education, single parent families, unemployment, racial segregation or the availability of guns.

Indeed, the crime hot spots identified by the Guardians ground-breaking analysis revealed that the 4.5 million Americans who live in these crime scarred places endure all those things.

But as the Guardians reporting revealed, Even within high-poverty areas that struggle with many kinds of disadvantage, the majority of residents have nothing to do with gun violence.

Those citizens surely deserve to have a peaceful place to live.

There has been much said recently about income inequality. Seems to me the issue of murder inequality should be up for just as much discussion.

If were really serious about cutting the crime rate in this country, the path seems clear.

First, focus on those 127 communities and reeling in the habitual criminals who make life so frightening and perilous for others.

Second, lets concentrate  really concentrate  on improving education, job opportunities and racial tensions for those who live in these beleaguered areas.

Our new president has talked tough on law and order issues. Now, lets see if his stated support for law enforcement translates into real-life actions that can help create a safer environment for both cops and citizens.

Diane@DianeDimond.com.
By all means, build a wall on the border, but dont make Mexico pay for it.

It was a great  and by great I mean effective, not noble or heroic  applause line from then-candidate Trump on the campaign trail. Audiences loved it, particularly the call-and-response. Trump: Whos going to pay for it? The crowd: MEXICO!

But the campaign is over and so is fun time. If the wall is worth having, its worth paying for.

On Thursday morning, Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto abruptly canceled his planned meeting with Donald Trump because the American president gave him no choice.

Nieto was willing to go ahead with the meeting, despite the fact Trump had signed an executive order commencing work on a wall. But then in an interview Trump said that, if Nieto wasnt willing to commit Mexico to paying for the wall, he shouldnt bother coming.

What else could Nieto do?

The Greek historian Thucydides argued that countries go to war for three reasons: honor, fear and interest. He put honor first and yet that is probably the least appreciated aspect of foreign policy today.

Historian Donald Kagan, in his essay Honor, Interest, Nation-State, recounts how, since antiquity, nations have put honor ahead of interest. For the last 2,500 years, at least, states have usually conducted their affairs and have often gone to war for reasons that would not pass the test of vital national interests posed by modern students of politics.

On countless occasions, he says, states have acted to defend or foster a collection of beliefs and feelings that ran counter to their practical interests and have placed their security at risk, persisting in their course even when the costs were high and the danger was evident.

Americans instinctively understand this when our own honor is at stake. The rallying cry during the Barbary Wars, Millions for defense, but not one cent for tribute, has almost become part of the national creed.

I am no fan of Karl Marx, but he was surely right when he observed that shame is a kind of anger turned in on itself. And if a whole nation were to feel ashamed it would be like a lion recoiling in order to spring.

Both the first and second world wars cannot be properly understood without taking the role national honor plays in foreign affairs.

Similarly, Vladimir Putins constant testing of the West makes sense only when you take into account the despots core conviction that the fall of the Soviet Union was a blow to Russian prestige and honor.

Now, I dont think a war with Mexico is in the cards, even if the Trump administration were to figure out a way to get Mexico to foot the bill for a border wall. But forcing Mexico to pay for it would be a punitive and gratuitous act of humiliation.

Expecting a democratically elected president of a sovereign and allied nation to, in effect, grovel to the United States is the equivalent of asking him to drink poison.

Across Mexico, the wall itself is despised as an insult. Thats too bad. And while I dont think we need some visible-from-space Great Wall of American Greatness stretching from the Atlantic to the Pacific, America has every right to secure its borders in any way it sees fit.

But asking the Mexicans to pay for it literally adds injury to insult. In economic terms, theres little difference between asking them to pay for it and forcing them to build it themselves.

No wonder virtually every sector of Mexican society sees the demand as an announcement of a humiliation, in the words of Mexican political analyst Jesus Silva-Herzog Marquez.

The former head of the Mexican Party of the Democratic Revolution described the demand as spitting in the face of Agustin Basave Benitez, the foreign minister who set up the presidential meeting.

President Trump insists that he wants a good relationship with Mexico and that a wall would be a win-win for the two countries.

Maybe. But Trumps win-win calculus is based upon an analysis of simple national interests. A wall would, Trump argues, curtail drug trafficking and stop the flow of Central American immigrants through Mexico.

Thats the case Trump wanted to make at his presidential meeting.

And, again, he might be right.

But nations dont just act on their interests; they act on their honor. And shouting Youll pay! is a surefire way of guaranteeing no one will hear anything else.

Copyright, Tribune Media Services Inc.
Copyright  2017 Albuquerque Journal

Five months before 10-year-old Victoria Martens was sexually assaulted and murdered, both the state Children, Youth and Families Department and the Albuquerque Police Department were told about an allegation that her mothers former boyfriend had tried to kiss the young girl.

But an attempted kiss is not a crime, according to police.

Spokespersons for both CYFD and APD said their departments followed policies and were limited in what actions they could take.

CYFD referred the complaint to APD. Detectives talked to the mother, Michelle Martens, and Victoria, but they didnt learn anything that gave them probable cause to suggest a crime had been committed, according to Celina Espinoza, an APD spokeswoman.

An attempted rape, or a report of a rape, is a criminal charge, Espinoza said. There is no statute for attempted kissing.

Espinoza said thats why they did not write a police report or document the call in any other way. Because there are no written reports, its unclear exactly what the mother and daughter said had happened or what the circumstances around the attempted kiss were. Its unclear who the former boyfriend in this case was, but Martens said she had kicked him out of the house.

A couple of months later, CYFD received other complaints regarding Victorias sibling and she was again interviewed. CYFD found no evidence of abuse, but it generated a report.

Connie Monahan, the statewide Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Coordinator for the New Mexico Coalition of Sexual Assault Programs, said Victoria clearly fell through gaps in the states system designed to protect children.

She said she is concerned that other at-risk children are falling through the same gaps and believes the agencies should review their policies in the wake of Victorias horrific death.

Thats when we say as a group: Lets revisit this policy,  Monahan said. What do we have in writing? Where is it weak? Where is it not flexible enough to say this is an exception?

CYFD called on March 28

When someone called CYFD on March 28 to say that Martens ex-boyfriend had tried to kiss Victoria, the department sent the information to the Crimes Against Children Unit of APD.

Thats because CYFD handles only allegations involving a parent or guardian or a person who lives with the child and has prolonged contact with him or her, according to Henry Varela, a CYFD spokesman.

That was never investigated by us because it didnt meet our criteria for investigation, but it was immediately cross-reported to law enforcement, Varela said.

He said they never received any other reports about kissing or sexual contact of any kind.

In the months that followed, Martens herself called CYFD twice about neglect or hygiene concerns involving her other childs father. Caseworkers interviewed Victoria and her younger brother, but didnt discover any physical or sexual abuse. All investigations were closed as unfounded.

Last week, CYFD released a summary of their four contacts with Victoria and her younger sibling. None of the contacts was for sexual or physical abuse.

The department determined caseworkers were thorough, followed procedures and uncovered no evidence of physical or sexual abuse in their interviews.

Varela said they didnt find any flaws with the way the call was referred out.

Hindsight is 20/20 on this case because of everything that we now know that happened, he said. I know we followed all policy procedures and laws when it came to screening out the portion of that call.

Monahan said CYFD has to limit themselves by only handling cases involving people who live with the child in order to prioritize cases where children is at higher risk. However, this means cases like this are quickly referred to another agency and may not get the attention they deserve.

That is one of the weaknesses overall, she said. It is unfortunate and its an example of where protocols are limited based on limited resources.

APD detectives check allegation

When the Crimes Against Children Unit was told about the allegation of a mothers ex-boyfriend trying to kiss a young girl, they went to check it out.

However, Espinoza said, they didnt find anything amiss.

She said the department has looked into anything that could have been done differently and hasnt found anything else they should have done in this case.

We dont want any children to have to incur any type of abuse, Espinoza said. It looks like at this time, everyone did everything they were supposed to.

It wasnt until detectives attended Victorias autopsy that they got proof she had been raped before Aug. 24, the night she was killed.

Police have arrested Martens, Martens boyfriend, Fabian Gonzales, and his cousin Jessica Kelley, in Victorias death.

An autopsy revealed Victoria had the sexually transmitted disease human papilloma virus, also known as HPV, as well as some other signs of previous sexual penetration.

Kimberly Hansen, the coordinator for the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner unit in Roswell, said its impossible to know exactly when Victoria contracted the virus. But, she said, she could not have gotten it the night she was killed.

It takes a while to show up, she said. It could take a month or two months; a person may have been exposed many years ago.

Espinoza said detectives, along with the FBI and CYFD, are continuing to investigate previous rapes, including Martens statement that she invited men to her house to rape Victoria. No one has been arrested in that case.

Weve solved the homicide case involving Victoria, but since the autopsy revealed there were possibly other rapes that may have previously happened thats still open and active, she said.

Monahan said agencies have to prioritize some cases over others in order to make sure they address the children who seem to be in the most danger first.

She said theres not always enough resources to make sure there are no gaps in the system.

If we had more resources, anybody in this work would have recognized this young person was at risk for further harm, she said. But at that moment, it wasnt enough to trigger the next step based on policy.

And she said she worries about other children in the state who are being abused and arent getting the help they need.

This is not just relevant to Victoria, Monahan said. This is relevant to many kids. This is happening every day to children in New Mexico.
When Punchy the Rooster landed in Sarita Silvas care, she knew exactly what to do to help him.

First, she put fresh straw in his enclosure. Next, she used a stick to make him a perch. Finally, she used a small barrel to give him a place to hide  an important amenity for an abused animal like Punchy, who was removed from a cockfighting ring and placed in the care of the Albuquerque Animal Welfare Department last June.

He had very sweet, endearing personality, and the cutest crow, said Silva, an animal handler who has been with the department for seven years. He became my little friend.

Punchy was eventually adopted by an animal rescue site in Colorado. As for Silva, she was named Employee of the Week and commended by Mayor Richard Berry on Friday morning for her work caring for Punchy and about 60 other chickens thought to have been used in cockfighting. In addition to tending to the animals during work hours, Silva also volunteered on her days off to find homes for the chickens.

Its people like Sarita who go above and beyond, who really make a difference in our city, said Berry, who added that the departments animal euthanasia rate has dropped from 60 percent in 2009 to 9.7 percent today.

The departments deputy director, Paul Caster, described Silva as a poultry whisperer.

Two other individuals were commended by Berry at the same event. Thirteen-year-old Eilean McFadden was honored as this weeks Good Samaritan for baking cupcakes for a local homeless programs events. For the past few years, McFadden and her mother have delivered the cupcakes in flavors like Mayan chocolate and cherry limeade to Albuquerque Heading Homes monthly peer-to-peer luncheons.

David Zamora, a paramedic driver with the Albuquerque Fire Department, was honored for responding to an incident while off-duty. PulsePoint, a free app available to the public that alerts users when they are within a quarter mile of a sudden cardiac arrest event, directed Zamora to a gas station where he administered CPR and comforted the family of the patient.

Zamora gave his award to his wife, whom he said encouraged him to respond to the incident while they were out together.
Members of New Mexicos Muslim community and other groups spoke out against an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on Friday that establishes strict new vetting measures for refugees, including an indefinite ban for Syrians.

Faisal Nabulsi, the Syrian-born president of the Islamic Center of New Mexico, called the executive order unAmerican and said it reinforces bigotry, Islamophobia and hate.

Nabulsi made the comments during a news conference at the Islamic Center in Albuquerque attended by about 100 people.

We must not allow fear to destroy our ability to make our home, America, a safe place for our families to prosper in peace, Nabulsi said.

Trumps order suspends all refugee admissions for 120 days. Once resumed, admissions will be limited to 50,000 in 2017, or less than half of the 110,000 proposed by President Barack Obama.

It also declares that the entry of Syrian refugees is detrimental to the interests of the United States and denies their entry indefinitely.

Several speakers said Trumps order has a chilling similarity to the U.S. decision to bar entry of Jewish refugees seeking escape from Nazi persecution in the years before World War II.

Suki Halevi, regional director of the Anti-Defamation League, noted that Trump signed the order on International Holocaust Remembrance Day, which memorializes victims of the Nazi concentration camps in World War II.

It is particularly shocking in this historical context that this order that may be signed today . . . threatens to slam the door on refugees even today, Halevi said.

Ahmad Assed, an Albuquerque attorney and legal advisor to the Islamic Center, said the U.S. is safest when Americans stand by their values, including respect for all people and religious groups.

It is unprecedented in our nations history that we ever have promulgated a policy officially that bans refugees on the basis of religion solely, Assed said.

We dont turn our backs on people fleeing political turmoil or religious persecution or who just want to come here to live the American dream, he said.

Assed said after the news conference that refugees faced an extensive vetting process even before Trumps order. About a dozen Syrian families have immigrated to Albuquerque in the past year or so.
A new nonpartisan group  backed by some legal heavyweights  is aiming to promote ethical conduct in New Mexico government.

New Mexico Ethics Watch, founded just last year, is weighing in on ethics legislation moving through the Roundhouse this session.

And earlier this month, the group issued a report examining weaknesses in the states Financial Disclosure Act and problems with its enforcement.

One can follow the law to the letter, the report said, and the public will still know virtually nothing about possible conflicts of interest.

The executive director of Ethics Watch is Douglas Carver, a former staff attorney for the Legislative Council Service. He also has worked for the Judicial Standards Commission, and has degrees from Yale University and the University of New Mexico Law School.

The chairman of the Ethics Watch board is Richard Bosson, a retired justice of the state Supreme Court. Rounding out the board are Phil Davis, an attorney whos worked for the American Civil Liberties Union; Vic Bruno, a commercial real estate consultant; Daniel Yohalem, an attorney with experience in civil rights law; and attorneys Al Green and Joleen Youngers.

As you might imagine, Ethics Watch mentions litigation as one of the ways it will promote its mission.

Ethics Watch is backing a proposal that would prohibit lawmakers from working as paid lobbyists within two years of leaving the Legislature. Thats House Bill 73, sponsored by Reps. Jim Dines, Joanne Ferrary and Nathan Small.

Dines is an Albuquerque Republican. Ferrary and Small are Las Cruces Democrats.

Ethics Watch also supports creation of an ethics commission, though it opposes allowing the group to operate in secret. Lawmakers are considering a few ethics proposals this session, some of which have faced criticism on transparency grounds.

SPONSOR CHANGE: Senate President Pro Tem Mary Kay Papen, D-Las Cruces, is no longer listed as a sponsor of a proposal that aims to keep secret the names of applicants for public jobs in New Mexico.

The proposal is now sponsored by Sen. George Munoz, D-Gallup.

It has been referred to the Senate Public Affairs and Judiciary committees.

Dan McKay: dmckay@abqjournal.com
Two attorneys and their client sat in a restaurant in Santa Fe over guacamole and chips and raised their glasses to the end of long days of testimony and six long years of fighting for answers, accountability, justice and perhaps even an apology for the way prominent civil rights attorney Mary Han was treated in death.

They wont get all that. For the most part, those are remedies no court can grant.

But what happened this week in a Santa Fe courtroom was still satisfying, still vindicating, they said, because much of what they have alleged for years finally emerged with the often shocking and disturbing testimony of several key witnesses who, before now, had not been heard publicly.

Thats not nothing.

This week, state District Judge David Thomson of Santa Fe heard the petition filed on behalf of the Han family by attorneys Rosario Vega Lynn and Diane Garrity seeking an order  called a writ of mandamus  that would compel the state Office of the Medical Investigator to change the manner of Hans death from suicide to undetermined.

Thomson didnt rule on the petition, giving the parties 45 days to file additional briefs.

Han, you may recall, was an Albuquerque attorney you either loved or hated but certainly respected for her tenacity and fearlessness. She was 53, at the peak of health and about to start her own law firm after parting ways with longtime partner Paul Kennedy when she was found dead Nov. 18, 2010, in her car in the garage of her North Valley townhome of carbon monoxide poisoning.

The first officers on the scene from both the Albuquerque Fire Department and the Albuquerque Police Department testified this week that they classified Hans death as suspicious and a possible crime scene, but the APD officers say they were thwarted in their efforts to conduct a proper investigation when dozens of the highest-ranking APD and city officials descended on the house.

APD officers Tim Lonz and Jacob Welch testified that they arrived at the Han home just after 12:30 p.m. Kennedy was outside and Han was dead in the garage, seated in the drivers seat of her white BMW, the windows rolled down, her feet propped on the dashboard to the left of the steering wheel. She was dressed in gym clothes and wearing reading glasses.

A clear plastic bag was under one leg. A blue gym bag, a laptop in another bag, a bathrobe and a glass of clear liquid were also in the car, they testified.

Both noted an odor of car exhaust throughout the house strong enough to induce headaches. Welch testified that the odor was so pungent that the car must have only recently been shut off. But the engine, he said, was cold. That, he said, was enough to raise his suspicions.

Later, he determined that the battery was dead but that the car still had a half-tank of gas.

Lonz testified that in the home he saw a folder or notebook on a table with a copy of an email bearing the name of then-Deputy Chief Allen Banks. Lonz said he alerted Banks, a friend, by text.

It was none of my business and no one elses business either, Lonz said.

Banks showed up along with other high-ranking APD and city officials  an estimated 30 to 50 people who walked through the house, shut the garage door and ordered Lonz and Welch outside.

That was frustrating, Lonz testified, because he wanted to call a criminalistics team of investigators and detectives to the scene and he was concerned that the scene itself was being contaminated by so many people traipsing through the house.

Welch also testified that before he was sent outside he saw Banks rifling through folders on a table.

He said he was looking for a suicide note, Welch said.

Later, Welch testified that before both he and Banks were scheduled to be deposed for a separate lawsuit in the Han case, Banks told him: Your testimony better match mine.

I took that as a threat, Welch said.

(Banks was named interim police chief in 2013 then left APD a year later to become police chief in Round Rock, Texas. A message left with his office was not returned.)

The folder with Banks email was never found, according to testimony. Nor was the laptop in the car, which was given to Kennedy, along with Hans cellphone, in violation of APD protocol.

Many things that occurred that day were in violation or simply not done. Former longtime chief medical investigator Dr. Ross Zumwalt testified that neither the state Office of the Medical Investigator nor APD had considered Hans bank statements, credit card records, medical records, cellphone records, the other prescription medications in her system, such as Ambien, or the contents of her laptop to determine a manner of death. They hadnt tested the air in the house, the clear liquid in the glass or the plastic bag in the car; nor had they questioned the positioning of her body in the car.

And during this weeks hearing, when Zumwalt was provided that additional information by forensic pathology experts and the Attorney Generals Office  after he was told APD had contaminated the death scene and not conducted a full investigation  he testified he was even more convinced Han died of suicide, placing his level of certainty at 95 percent.

Zumwalts testimony was enough to drop jaws and shake heads and bring tears to the eyes of Hans sister, Elizabeth Wallbro.

It will take weeks before the judge decides on whether to grant the writ. Whichever way it goes, the legal odyssey, which has included other claims now dismissed save for one last appeal, is likely over.

It was, I think, a fight Han would have been proud of.

That night in the Santa Fe restaurant there were no more tears.

UpFront is a daily front-page news and opinion column. Comment directly to Joline at 823-3603, jkrueger@abqjournal.com or follow her on Twitter @jolinegkg. Go to www.abqjournal.com/letters/new to submit a letter to the editor.
Govt will face every obstacles to resolve crisis: PM

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal said the government will face every obstacles to implement the constitution and bail the country out of current crisis.
In the Rio Rancho Public Schools Board of Education election on Tuesday, Feb. 7, two seats are being contested, after challenger Catherine Jabar dropped out of the District 5 race, leaving incumbent Catherine Cullen unopposed. In the other districts, Wynne Coleman, Margretta Franklin and Natalie Nicotine are running for the District 1 seat (vacated by Don Schlichte), while William Dunn faces incumbent Martha Janssen for her District 3 seat.

In the contested races, here are brief bios of the candidates and their answers to the following questions posed to them by the Observer. (In addition, all five replied no to being asked, Have you ever been convicted of a felony crime?):

Wynne Diane Coleman

Wynne Diane Coleman has lived in Rio Rancho for five years, She works as an account manager at HP Inc. In the past, she served as a school board member, site council president, chair of the bond campaign, and member of the steering committee in the Basehor-Linwood School District in Kansas. In Rio Rancho, she was on the 2016 RRPS bond campaign steering committee, as well as the Parent Advisory Board.

Margretta Peggy Franklin

A 23-year resident and housewife, Margretta Franklin lacks political experience but has served on numerous volunteer organizations in the schools.

Natalie Nicotine

Natalie Nicotine, a nine-year resident of Rio Rancho, is a social worker and graduate student at NMHU; she serves as the board secretary for the Assembly of Native American Voices, and is the vice chair for the RRPS Native American Parent Advisory Council.

William Edward Dunn

William Dunn has lived in Rio Rancho for four years. He owns an insurance agency; although he has no political experience, he serves as a board member of the YMCA of New Mexico.

Martha E. Janssen (incumbent)

A 10-year resident of the city, Janssen won election in 2013 and is seeking a second term. She works as an office manager; her first term on the board was her first political experience.

Please explain what factors compelled you to run for a seat on the Rio Rancho Public Schools Board of Education.

COLEMAN: I have been involved with public education for years, and I firmly believe a great school district is the foundation for a great community. As a volunteer in our schools, and a parent of two daughters at Cleveland High School, I want to continue to work to make our district all the better. As I regularly attend school board meetings, I have familiarized myself with the issues and concerns that face the district, and with my previous service on another school board, I have every confidence that I have the experience and vision to help make the overall best decisions for our schools.

FRANKLIN: I wanted to run for RRPS board to be an advocate for the children that go to our schools and be part of the best school districts in the state. I want to ignite excellence, starting at the top.

NICOTINE: The main factor that compelled me to run for RRPS board of education is my commitment to my community. I also have three children in the district and I want to support students, teachers and the community with my experience, education, and knowledge. I value children, education, and our community and my motivation stems from my own educational journey. I believe our children should have the best advantages and successes in RRPS.

DUNN: Rio Rancho Public Schools is the top school district in the state. In a state that is 49th in the country, we should be proud of the accomplishment while keeping an eye on the future. In the last school year, the district took a step back in the school grades. Last year, seven of nine elementary schools lost at least one letter grade (i.e., B to C) and multiple schools lost more than one letter grade; three of the four middle schools lost at least one letter grade in 2016. It is time to look into the future, stop the negative slide and move forward with a new generation of leaders on the board. We can do better, and I believe I can bring a new and fresh approach to continue RRPS as a leader for our childrens sake.

JANSSEN: I am running for re-election on the school board because I strongly believe in the power of education. I believe the success of a community is tied directly to the education of its children.

Education is constantly changing and it is important that we continue to look for ways in which we can improve. With four years of experience on the school board, I have a clear understanding of crucial changes we should consider, processes or policies that can be improved and the knowledge and insight to appreciate areas where our District continues to excel and no change is needed.

Please describe your understanding of the current challenges faced by RRPS regarding student use of illicit drugs, and outline the policy formulations you would advocate to address this concern.

COLEMAN: Rio Rancho schools have seen an increase in illicit drug use, so first of all, it is imperative to be proactive. I will collaborate with staff, community partners and healthcare professionals to coordinate an active, on-going campaign to educate students about the dangers of drug use. Regarding other policy, I want to explore expanding the districts current program of randomly testing student athletes and consider including more co-curricular participants  students who are not athletes, but rather are members of school clubs. Additionally, I support the high schools, and possibly middle schools, having Naloxone available for emergency drug overdose situations.

FRANKLIN: My understanding of the current challenges with illicit drugs is that drug use, especially marijuana and prescription medication, is on the rise. The kids are being held accountable when caught, by being suspended and recommending counseling. I would like to see the school provide on-site counseling and family services. This will not only help the child, but it would also help the family help the child.

NICOTINE: With the high rate of illicit drug use and its deadly consequences, I understand the concern of RRPS parents, employees and the community. I am very supportive of policies that are evidence-based, preventative, ethical and cost-effective. I believe it is our responsibility to do what is necessary to keep our kids safe, healthy, and well.

DUNN: This is a heartbreaking situation for our children and their parents. I am committed to listening to teachers, parents, community members and experts on this issue to find a solution for our children. Many challenges are facing RRPS, including the lack of a formal plan to correct this behavior. The student handbook contains documentation on the punishment, but not the development of a potential recovery plan. A comprehensive policy should include ways to prevent addiction to the drug and recovery. Policing the issue is difficult as prescription drugs and opiates are small, easily concealed and can be hidden in a small spaces. I believe the district should look into the legal opportunities of utilizing a drug- and/or gun-sniffing dog on the campuses. One such animal trained and utilized by a district employee in random schools could act as a deterrent and would aid in finding the illicit drugs.

JANSSEN: I have zero tolerance when it comes to the use of illegal drugs. Our policy is very clear. Substance abuse on school premises and during school programs is strictly prohibited under Board Policy 307. I do not believe additional policies or changes in policy are needed in this area. Rather, consistent oversight and policy enforcement remains key.

What are the top three priorities for your four-year term, and how you will accomplish them?

COLEMAN: Attract and retain quality faculty: I will maintain on-going conversations with the staff to understand their concerns and listen to their valuable suggestions. Additionally, I want to see us recruit non-traditional individuals  those professionals initially trained in other fields.

Make every penny count during tight financial times: This is a critical time for our district, with extremely tight state dollars. I have the experience to do the job, having helped successfully structure district finances during my previous service on a school board. I commit to review all our options, talking to all stakeholders  administrators, teachers, community members, students  and supporting the best possible decisions for the overall good.

Support programs to make our students both college and career-ready: Expand dual-credit programs that offer college credit, and track our graduates to understand what happens post-graduation. Also, explore vocational and technical training, in addition to college-track work.

FRANKLIN: My top priorities would be to balance the budget and make sure there is accountability across the board; raise teachers salaries; and, above all, repair buildings that desperately need it, while addressing growth of new schools.

NICOTINE: If I am elected, I will protect funding so RRPS students and employees are adequately supported, recruit and retain quality and licensed teachers and staff, and develop an inclusive, collaborative relationship with stakeholders who are invested in preparing RRPS students for the future.

DUNN: Funding: We are facing financial shortcomings now and in the immediate and foreseeable future, cuts should happen away from our classrooms, not in the heart of our classrooms. My background in finances and nine-figure budgets is greatly beneficial in this area.

Over-testing: Our students spend too much of their time testing and/or preparing for testing, this limits the educators ability to teach the subjects. There should be a limit to the number of tests our student take.

Overcrowding at several of our schools: With the new school on hold for another 2-4 years, what are we doing to help reduce the overcrowding in our schools and classrooms? We cannot allow our students and educators to continue with the limitations they have been forced to deal with. We need to maximize the resources we have now to reduce the stress on the classrooms.

JANSSEN: My first priority for the following term is to maintain the quality of the programs we offer to our kids. Unfortunately, required budget cuts are creating a very difficult situation for our district, making it critical that we conduct a very thorough and detailed evaluation of what is working and what is not.

Work closely with our state legislators, and keep advocating in unison on behalf of our district and our community. We have one of the best districts in the state and we are forced to create miracles with the small amount of money we receive.

Facilities improvement will remain one of my priorities as well. Some of our buildings are very old and need a lot of repairs. Unfortunately, again, it all comes down to money and we do not have much to work with in this arena. However, it is a constant priority for me to make sure our kids, parents and teachers are safe at our facilities.

How would you work to improve parental and public involvement in the education process?

COLEMAN: Research shows that students do much better in school when parents are actively involved in their childrens education. As a board member, I will encourage and support school initiatives that get parents involved. In addition, I will attend school site meetings to connect with, listen to, and work to implement ideas and programs that support our parents, staff and community.

FRANKLIN: This one is a challenge, but the booster clubs would be a good avenue to have people help and see what is happening in their childs extra curriculum events. When there are school performances, we should invite families to come and watch what our children perform. Perhaps have food at these events might help. I know the school board gets negative feedback; we need to promote getting positive feedback as well. Also, having a board liaison for the staff to go to would help.

NICOTINE: Community involvement is very important to the success of RRPS. The communitys voice needs to be heard and valued and I am committed to ensuring this is achieved in RRPS. I will make active efforts to provide guidance and accountability in an educated, informed, and sensitive manner to my constituents.

DUNN: I believe the first step in parental and public involvement is communication. There is no formal communication plan for the administration and the school board to the parents and public. I would like to see newsletters and/or some other type of material distributed to the parents on a monthly basis. I believe each board member should be visiting the schools they represent on a regular basis. Schedule a time to meet with each schools employees and a time to meet with the parents in the school cafeteria or another venue on site. The board member would give a state of the school/district presentation and then have a town hall style meeting with parents. The board member would be responsible to get back to the community with any information that was missing or questions left unanswered.

JANSSEN: I think we have very involved and supporting parents in our district, and I am one of them! Of course, there is always room for improvement. Our teachers and principals work very hard to create activities that working parents can attend. We have literacy night, pizza night, open house night, etc. These are all activities where busy parents like me feel welcome. We definitely need to keep spreading the word about these activities and continue to strive to obtain feedback and ideas from parents.

What criteria would you use to determine if a school district has been successful in the education process? Please compare/contrast with NMEDs reform and accountability efforts.

COLEMAN: The efforts currently in place suffer from various weaknesses. The A-F grading system is weighed toward school improvement, so that high-performing districts like ours are penalized, because there is not as much room for improvement. The PARCC testing amounts to over-testing, as it has been added on top of our other testing already in place. It overburdens our staff, our computer facilities, and takes away from instructional time in the classroom. Finally, the Teacher Evaluation System, although its intentions are good, was simply mandated from the state, without input from our schools, and is underfunded and burdensome. All of these various programs have some merit, but need to be changed such that they are implemented with input and buy-in from the schools. We should not reinvent the wheel by duplicating efforts due to lack of communication throughout the district staff or parents.

FRANKLIN: Some of the criteria I would like to use would be some type of mechanism to obtain local feedback. I would like to pick some major indicators (data) to review annually, such as third-grade reading, high school graduation rate, percentage of kids that participate in extracurricular activities, AP scores and ACT scores.

As far as the NMPED reform and accountability, the school accountability would be the A-F report card. They are trying to grade schools and help schools improve in several categories but the formula that is used is unfair to schools that have high scores. This effects the growth. If you dont grow the score goes down. Also, in the teacher evaluation system, they attempt to help teachers improve by using data to give an accurate total but nobody understands the formula used to calculate the final score.

NICOTINE: For a school district to be successful, there are many factors that can be taken into account. Testing scores alone to do not highlight the outcomes and success of our educational system. An important factor would be to identify if our educational process is designed to be challenging, supportive, and instills a love for learning for our students, employees, and parents. Other factors include: teacher and parent satisfaction, college readiness, adequate funding, access to preventative community resources and other additional innovative and inclusive services and programs.

DUNN: I measure success in growth. The delta or change between the start and finish. Mount Everest cannot be climbed in a day, nor can we find all the success we are looking for in one school year. Growth of the school district and individual school grades can be seen in the change from one year to the next. An elementary that is currently rated a D can be successful if they implement the changes necessary to move them to a C; a high school that is rated as an A cannot be successful if they are a B the next year. I am calling for fewer assessments, so if there must only be two, give them the end of year examination in the first week, then they take the same examination on the last week of the year. You can determine success by the level at which the students grow.

JANSSEN: Our numbers tell the story. We have a very high graduation rate and we always excel in academics and sports. The quality of our teachers and administrators is noticeable and continues to improve. Rio Rancho is one of the best districts in the state and that is due to a team effort from many dedicated individuals.

I support the goal of measuring success of academic programs. However, I am not in favor of evaluating teachers when their absentee rate plays a substantial role in their evaluation. I look forward to working with my fellow board members and the NMED professionals to continue to tweak the evaluation system where it is needed. I want to be certain that we continue to listen to the valid concerns of our talented teachers with regard to the process.

Source: Rio Rancho Public Schools website

Voting information

 Absentee and Absentee-in-Person Voting:

Voters may request absentee ballots via phone and mail through the Sandoval County Bureau of Elections, P.O. Box 40, Bernalillo, NM, 87004, 867-7577. The office is at 1500 Idalia Rd. NE Building D (in the County Administration Building near Idalia and NM 528). Absentee ballots must be returned to and received by the Bureau of Elections no later than 7 p.m. on Election Day, Feb. 7.

Voters may cast ballots in person at the Sandoval County Bureau of Elections through Friday, Feb. 3, during the bureaus regular office hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

 Early Voting:

Voters may cast ballots at the Loma Colorado Main Library, 755 Loma Colorado Dr. NE, through Saturday, Feb. 4. Hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

 Election Day, Tuesday, Feb. 7:

Voters may cast ballots at any of four polling sites conveniently located throughout Rio Rancho from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.:

Maggie Cordova Elementary, 1500 Veranda Rd. SE

Cielo Azul Elementary, 3804 Shiloh Rd. NE

Mountain View Middle School, 4101 Montreal Lp. NE

Loma Colorado Main Library, 755 Loma Colorado Dr. NE

 For more election information, go to the districts website, www.rrps.net.
Wanting more quality time with his family, Rio Rancho Police Chief Michael Geier will step down from his position in February to make that happen.

Geiers last active day with RRPD will be Feb. 18. He will then utilize the rest of his remaining two months of allotted vacation time. Geiers final day with the department will be in April.

Deputy Chief Paul Rogers will serve as the acting police chief, while a national search to replace Geier takes place; Geier will help conduct the search.

Geier joined RRPD in 2014, following a 20-year career with the Albuquerque Police Department, replacing retiring Bob Boone.

Geiers decision to step away from the police force came at the beginning of the year, as he said he wanted to spend more time with his wife, who suffers from the rare skin disease scleroderma.

Ive been doing this for 43 years and, at some point, youve got to put something first. Weve been together 42 years right now, I need an extended sabbatical to help her and give that attention, he said.

Although hes not retiring, Geier said he would consider a job teaching criminal justice in the future.

Geiers career began in 1974 as an officer in northern Chicago. Police forces were beginning to change, he said, as more college-educated recruits became officers and the Chicago Police Department hired its first-ever female police officer.

In some ways, the job isnt that much different from place to place, Geier said. Were all human at heart  theres going to be good people. Thats life, but thats what makes this job interesting (is) you get to be out there dealing with that.

Geier said his time in Rio Rancho has been positive, saying the community helped support the department through difficult times. In May 2015, officer Gregg Benner was shot and killed during a routine traffic stop. The officers death shook the department hard, Geier said, and occurred nearly six months after the department lost officer Anthony Haase, who died in a motor vehicle crash while responding to an early morning call.

At some point, the community never stopped supporting us, Geier said. The day of that funeral, when they lined the streets, or on the anniversary of his death  just for whatever reason, theyll drop in and say, Hey, heres lunch, or Heres some treats for the officers or just thank-you cards that come in.

One of Geiers initial priorities with the department was providing crisis intervention training for officers, he said. Since starting three years ago, 100 percent of the departments officers have received basic mental health first aid training and 40 percent of officers have received advanced training. In 2016, the International Association of Chiefs of Police awarded RRPD the Excellence in Victim Services Award. The department was also awarded accreditation by the states law enforcement professional standards council last year.

Im not one to look and take credit for that; thats not me, thats everyone else doing that work. I just planted the seeds, so to speak, Geier said.
Longtime Rio Rancho Public Schools Superintendent V. Sue Cleveland will serve through at least June 2020.

On Monday, the RRPS board voted unanimously to extend Clevelands contract by a year, citing her professionalism and skill.

We are blessed to have such a high-performing superintendent, Clevelands board performance review states. The boards overall estimation is that Dr. Cleveland is doing a good job for our district.

The review notes that, nationwide, the average tenure for a superintendent is only three years. Cleveland has held the position since 1993, when RRPS split off from Albuquerque Public Schools.

Being on the school board as many years as I have been, superintendents dont stick around in these positions, especially here in New Mexico, said board member Ramon Montano. Turnover is really high.  To have her (Cleveland) still here, there are no words for that.

While the board and superintendent may not always agree on the issues, Cleveland never takes it personally, Montano said.

Board vice president Catherine Cullen highlighted Clevelands strong work ethic, noting that the superintendent is often still responding to emails at 1 a.m.

She is highly respected throughout the state, Cullen said.

After the vote, Cleveland thanked board members and staff for their dedication to the district, which regularly outperforms the rest of the state on nearly every measure of educational attainment, including graduation rates and standardized test scores.

Under the terms of her contract, Cleveland will maintain her $180,000 salary.
Copyright  2017 Albuquerque Journal

Schools are meant to be safe places for all children, including those who are undocumented.

Thats the message Albuquerque Public Schools sent to principals and counselors earlier this month, after activists asked the district to publicize its stance on immigrant students in the wake of President Donald Trumps tough rhetoric.

Organizers from Listo Nuevo Mexico, a coalition of Latino groups, first met with district administrators in December, then brought a group of roughly 25 people to address the Board of Education during a meeting earlier this month.

APS formed a partnership with the coalition and crafted an email, sent Jan. 17, to highlight three district policies:

Student protection: Immigration officials shall not be permitted on school campus at any time.

Safe Schools and Relations with Law Enforcement Authorities: The Albuquerque Public Schools provides admission and equal educational opportunities to all students that meet enrollment requirements, regardless of their immigration status or national origin.

Immigrant Students Regardless of Documented Status: The United States Supreme Court has also ruled that citizenship status cannot be used to deny public school admission to school age children

In addition, the letter lists community resources for immigrant students, including El CENTRO de Igualdad y Derechos, an immigrants rights and workers justice group; New Mexico Immigrant Law Center, a legal aid organization; and Encuentro, which offers educational opportunities for immigrant families.

The organizations are all part of Listo Nuevo Mexico, along with New Mexico Dream Team, a group of undocumented students and allies.

Katarina Sandoval, APS associate superintendent for equity and access, stressed that the district did not pass any new policies for immigrants, but wanted to reassure local families that protections are already in place.

There is a certain level of fear and anxiety that there might be increased deportations, Sandoval said. We just dont know  the rhetoric is such that its unknown at this time.

APS does not track students immigration status, so it is unclear how many undocumented children are enrolled in the district.

During an equity committee meeting held Wednesday, board member Peggy Muller-Aragon said it is upsetting to think that immigrant children are worried about the future.

Everyone is welcome in this country no matter who is in the White House, she added. We are a country of immigrants, and they are welcome, and nobody, besides people who are criminals, should feel afraid of anything. We need to make sure our kids know that.

APS administrators are planning a deeper discussion of the policies during upcoming meetings with principals and counselors.

Rachel LaZar, executive director at El CENTRO de Igualdad y Derechos, told the Journal she is happy to partner with the district.

In these times of uncertainty, we think it is important for parents and students and educators to be aware that these policies exist, she said.
ADEN, Yemen  After reaching Yemens shores in a packed migrant boat, the young Ethiopian coffee farmer was plunged into a living hell. The smugglers wanted thousands of dollars in ransom from the migrants, and they used him as an example of what would happen if they didnt pay.

Each day for a month, they inflicted new tortures on him, Omar Farrag told The Associated Press. They put him in a tank of water and lit a fire underneath it. They wrapped his limbs with tight barbed wire. At times, they heated the barbed wire.

Finally, his younger brother came from Ethiopia with $2,000 in ransom money. The smugglers decided they could squeeze more money out of him too, so they tortured his brother and ended up killing him, Farrag said.

Now in the southern Yemeni city of Aden, the 26-year-old is overcome with guilt over his brothers death. I got my brother killed; I am a disgrace. But its impossible to imagine what I went through, Farrag said. I dont even know where they buried him.

Migrants from the Horn of Africa are flowing into Yemen at ever growing rates despite the nearly 2-year-old civil war that has thrown the country into its own humanitarian crisis of hunger and displacement. The migrants  many, like Farrag, fleeing drought or poverty back home  are hoping to cross Yemen and reach neighboring oil-rich Saudi Arabia.

More than 111,500 migrants landed on Yemens shores last year, up from around 100,000 the year before, according to the Regional Mixed Migration Secretariat, a grouping of international agencies that monitors migration in the area.

The chaos caused by the civil war has raised migrants hopes that they can slip through to Saudi Arabia, with no central authority keeping watch. However, the turmoil has also left migrants vulnerable to abuse and cruelty at the hands of the armed trafficking rings, many believed connected to and acting with protection from the multiple militias involved in the war.

After taking migrants money as payment to transport them, the traffickers often demand more, sometimes even phoning their families in Ethiopia so they can hear the torment their loved ones are subjected to. Rape is so widespread that women carry contraception for fear of becoming pregnant.

Migrants dont know they will have to pay twice: Once when they take the boat to cross the sea and a second time upon arrival, said Laurent De Boeck, head of Yemeni operations of the International Organization for Migration, or IOM. So when they dont pay, this is when the phase of abuses begins. They face torture, burns and rape.

The fate of migrants in Yemen remains a black hole. It is not known how many become trapped and abused, but officials from the IOM and other U.N. agencies believe it is widespread. It is not even known how many eventually make it to Saudi Arabia, as the kingdom does not release figures.

Authorities in southern Yemen have carried out forced deportations of migrants at least seven times, IOM officials said. In December, at least 25 drowned when they were forced onto boats to leave Aden.

The migrants were rounded up, packed onto small boats  as many as 150 to a vessel  and forced out to sea, according to Yemeni security officials in Aden. They were led like animals with nothing with them but water, said one senior officer, speaking on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk to the press.

Over 90 percent of the migrants belong to the Oromo community, Ethiopias largest ethnic group, whose members often complain of discrimination at the hands of the Ethiopian government. Most are aged 25 and younger  some as young as 11, said Esam al-Makhzomi an IOM official in Aden. According to IOM figures, around 20 percent of the migrants are unaccompanied minors.

There was an impression that the numbers are going down but in fact  the numbers are huge and they continue to grow, he said.

He described trafficking as an organized criminal ring.  Nothing is random here. He said torture is rampant, aiming at scaring migrants and forcing them to pay more money. He said some local security and government officials provide cover for the traffickers.

There is torture, rape, and we have seen severe cases of abuse where the migrants lose their lives, al-Makhzomi said.

Nearly 30 percent of the migrants who have sought IOM help to return home said they had been approached by one of the warring parties in Yemen  or by militant groups like al-Qaida and the Islamic State group  trying to recruit them as fighters, de Boeck said. An estimated 9,000 migrants are being held in prisons, whether by the rebels or by opposing factions.

From Ethiopia, migrants take one of two routes, through Djbouti or the Puntland region of Somalia  often walking for days to reach the ports there.

Those leaving from Somalia cross the Gulf of Aden to land in Shabwa province on Yemens southern coast, an area controlled by factions backing the internationally recognized government, but where factions linked to al-Qaida also are active.

Those leaving from Djibouti take boats across the Bab al-Mandab  Arabic for the gates of grief  the 25-kilometer-wide straits at the mouth of the Red Sea. They land on Yemens eastern coast in areas mostly under the control of the Houthi rebels.

The migrants then often go by foot across Yemen toward the Saudi border. But since much of the area around the border is a battle zone, chances are slim of actually making it into Saudi Arabia, al-Makhzomi said

The exception may be female migrants, who are in demand as domestic workers in Saudi Arabia. There is a more sophisticated smuggling mechanism for women, said Lalini Veerassamy, an IOM official in Djibouti.

De Boeck, the IOM chief in Sanaa, said that trafficking in human organs is also on the rise.

The trafficking of people for organs  seems to be more widespread, related to the fact that there is a collapse of the state and no capacity to have the rule of law applied, he said.

Farrag, the coffee farmer, bears marks of torture at the hands of the smugglers. His arms are covered with burns and scars and he has a deep scar under one eye. One of his toes is missing.

Now, if I see a migrant with a scar, I can tell how he sustained it. I have tasted all sorts of torture, he said, looking around nervously as he spoke.

He refused to be photographed or filmed, saying he didnt want his family to find out he was alive. After being held by the smugglers for around a month, he was freed after his brothers death, he said. Now he works repairing shoes from a blanket spread on the side of a road in Adens Koud al-Nimr district.

He said he landed in Shabwa last May with a boatload of fellow migrants. The smugglers immediately took them in trucks to a building surrounded by high walls. Inside, there were many rooms, all sealed off and dark.

The traffickers asked each migrant for $2,000, and the abuses started.

From maybe 100 migrants, they pick five to torture badly so everybody succumbs, he said. Occasionally gunshots rang out and the smugglers would tell him they shot a migrant trying to escape. He said he saw women screaming as they were forced into rooms where he suspected they were raped.

Despite all the suffering, Farrag hasnt given up.

I am saving money to go to Saudi Arabia, he said.

___

Michael reported from Cairo. Associated Press writer Ahmed al-Haj in Sanaa, Yemen, contributed to this report.
Hundreds of angry calls and emails were received by the Carlsbad Mayors Office in the days after City Councilor J.R. Doporto was criticized nationally for comments he made on his Facebook page regarding the Womens March in Washington, D.C., last Saturday.

Doportos post said women have the right to free speech, but also the right to be slapped.

Deputy City Administrator Stephanie Shumsky said most people calling for Doportos resignation are not from Carlsbad or Eddy County.

The overwhelming majority of these phone calls and emails have been by people voicing that they are upset or offended by his comments, Shumsky said in a statement.

Carlsbad Mayor Dale Janway said the city confirmed an earlier statement from the City Attorneys Office explaining the city can take no legal action to remove the councilor under New Mexico State Law.

I want to again make it clear that I am not defending Councilor Doportos statements, Janway wrote. Words have consequences, especially when those words are spoken or written by an elected official. I do not condone domestic violence or disrespectful attitudes toward women.

Janway said many women work for the city, and that any comment Doporto made that was construed as against womens rights did not reflect the citys philosophy.

Board member of Carlsbads Battered Family Shelter and local pastor the Rev. David Rogers said Doporto should resign, and said jokes about domestic violence only make it harder to effectively treat and combat violence against women.

This type of comment is absolutely not funny, Rogers said. Any attempt to justify it only re-victimizes people who have suffered from domestic violence. Theres no excuse for it.

Rogers said the shelter has historically been supported by the City Council, and Doportos comments contradict such efforts by the city.

For a councilor to publicly joke about something as horrible as domestic violence is a slap in the face to the council, he said. In talking with councilors, I know they do not share his repulsive sense of humor. Its behavior like this that makes our job at the shelter much more difficult.

Doporto fired from day job, might sue

After being fired from his day job Wednesday as a network engineer at Holly Frontier Corp.s Navajo Oil Refinery, Doporto said he is seeking legal counsel in hopes of bringing a wrongful termination lawsuit against the oil giant.

Doporto said he has been contacted by several attorneys from Carlsbad and Lovington hoping to represent him in the possible case.

Doporto said Friday that he has been advised by potential attorneys in his case to not make any more public comments about the case or his termination.

Las Cruces-based attorney Peter Goodman, who has worked on First Amendment and employment cases, said Doportos suit would depend on whether or not he is an at will employee or if Holly Frontier provides a manual for employee conduct.

If you are at-will, I can fire you for anything, even if I just dont like how you smell, Goodman said. If they dont like him, they can fire him.

Despite several requests from Current-Argus reporters, officials at Holly Frontier have refused to comment on Doportos termination, possible litigation and whether or not he was an at-will employee.

Goodman said Doportos position as a public official could also factor into how the company is portrayed in the public eye.

He said issues of free speech usually only apply to government bodies and are hard to pursue against a private company.

It really is a lot harder to enforce basic freedoms with private companies, he said.
YEREVAN, JANUARY 27, ARMENPRESS. The Army is the number one guarantor of the establishment of statehood. We have a state, and this is firstly due to the established Armenian Army, political scientist Garik Keryan  Head of the Department of the Political Institutions and Processes of the YSU Faculty of International Relations  said in an interview with Armenpress.

If we didnt have an Army that would be able to become the guarantor of the security of the state under in a state of semi-war, of course, the third republic of Armenia today would not exist. From this perspective, the assessment is definite: we have an established Army, Keryan said.

The political scientist said today there is an issue to make the Army perfect. Armenia must ensure that the Army is improved. Every effort must be made to reach the defined standards: firstly, absence of corruption, exclusion of improper relations, existence of modern military equipment, and the most important, the Armys non-interference in the political processes.

There are achievements on certain issues, but in some cases the situation is still not so perfect. Thus, we must reach them in the upcoming decades. But the fact that the Army is the cornerstone of our statehood and the guarantor of the existence, cannot be questioned, the political scientist said.

Garik Keryan said works must be carried out aimed at strengthening the army-society ties. He said the civilian control mechanisms on the Army are still not perfect.

He emphasized that in difficult periods the society stood together with the Army. The April war proved this. If before it many were thinking about what will be in case of war, the military operations in April showed that the society is ready to support the Army at any moment. Moreover, the April war showed that we have brilliant, combat-ready soldiers, the political scientist said.

On January 28 Armenia and the Armenians worldwide celebrate the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Armenian Army.






Land hurdle cleared for setting up Army barracks in Korala

The Cabinet on Friday cleared the way for Nepal Army to build its barracks near Korala on the Nepal-China border in Mustang.
Meeting between hotels, workers on service charge issue ends fruitless

A meeting between Hotel Association Nepal (Han) and Nepal Tourism and Hotel Labourers Association to resolve the issue over service charge ended inconclusively on Friday.
Brands with the mindset of evolve, innovate and disrupt, are best suited to defend themselves against the overthrows and revolutions on the horizon.

What can be done right now if you are not one of those brands?

1. Evolve: Understand customer sentiment at all times and adjust to it. Sentiment isnt just about surveys or polls you deploy yearly. Its understanding the marketplace all of the time. This means understanding both what your customers love and dislike about you. The latter is difficult because brands do not like to respond to criticism. But this is how we learn and grow.

What should replace polls and surveys? Lets look at three alternatives that all brands intent on relevance should be using.

Social Listening Tools  Social listening powered by big data science gives us the ability to harvest the discussion around us and use it to understand what people think from a brand health perspective. Most good social listening tools allow you to mine positive and negative conversations. Its the latter conversations you want to key in on. Those that reveal raw opinions like, This product sucks, I wish they would do or How terrible is this service? Remember, service is part of your product now. Its not a separate entity. Brands must realize that they are the sum of the customer experience. Brands may try and manage product and service as separate entities but to customers they are not.

 Social listening powered by big data science gives us the ability to harvest the discussion around us and use it to understand what people think from a brand health perspective. Most good social listening tools allow you to mine positive and negative conversations. Its the latter conversations you want to key in on. Those that reveal raw opinions like, This product sucks, I wish they would do or How terrible is this service? Remember, service is part of your product now. Its not a separate entity. Brands must realize that they are the sum of the customer experience. Brands may try and manage product and service as separate entities but to customers they are not. Customer Interviews  Brands that earn a place in the future will share one critical characteristic  great listening skills. Listening to learn is how to prevent getting caught up in the know it all mindset that often leads brands into irrelevance. When you know everything, you lack curiosity, when you lack curiosity you miss the opportunities and threats circling your brand. When you miss those, well, youre dead or dying. As Bill Gates said so eloquently, Your most unhappy customers are your greatest sources of learning.

 Brands that earn a place in the future will share one critical characteristic  great listening skills. Listening to learn is how to prevent getting caught up in the know it all mindset that often leads brands into irrelevance. When you know everything, you lack curiosity, when you lack curiosity you miss the opportunities and threats circling your brand. When you miss those, well, youre dead or dying. As Bill Gates said so eloquently, Your most unhappy customers are your greatest sources of learning. Customer Think Tanks  These are not focus groups. These are groups of people who love your brand and talk about it at all times. They are true influencers, not the type you pay who could care less about what your brand represents. The reason you create think tanks is to gather information from highly influential customers  your super users to figure out tweaks and moonshots. No longer do we live in a world where employees are the know-it-alls. Especially if those employees are biased based on the fact the brand employs them. Think tanks are also great places to show you really care about your diehard customers and dont take them for granted. Public companies treat their shareholders well, why shouldnt we treat those who share and influence in the same manner?

2. Innovate: When we talk about brand innovation this covers a variety of areas from your products, services, solutions and branding but it also is in the people you hire and how you unleash their power into the marketplace. Today, where its impossible to talk to a real person but easier to chat with a bot we need to understand the touchpoints of the customer experience so we can improve everything as a holistic customer experience. This means its not enough to simply rebrand if your products still dont work. Or to improve your products without raising your customer service in the process.

3. Disrupt: Dont settle on conventions. In our social by design network connected world, information travels quickly. One of the best forms of discussion in this era is one weve been taught to never be a part of. It goes like this: I cant believe that so and so did that! Your parents probably said to never be the so and so in those conversations. Well guess what? You need to be part of those conversations. Dont sit idly, push the boundaries of creativity and new possibilities, the world rewards brands who do. When they speak about you, your brand name travels and begins to influence others. Think of some of these conversations, some of them went like this: I cant believe Microsoft built the Surface Studio. Or, I cant believe Spotify now has The Beatles catalog. Or this famous one, I cant believe its not butter.

The more you can defy the conventional, the better chance you have of being in the hearts and minds of your target audiences no matter what happens in the world around us.

Learn how to keep your brand relevant in the 21st Century in my new book Disruptive Marketing.

The Blake Project Can Help: Disruptive Brand Strategy Workshop

Branding Strategy Insider is a service of The Blake Project: A strategic brand consultancy specializing in Brand Research, Brand Strategy, Brand Licensing and Brand Education

FREE Publications And Resources For Marketers
A judge has today deferred ruling on whether fee legal aid will be granted to an Aer Lingus worker charged in connection with organised human trafficking at Dublin Airport.

Aer Lingus employee Frederick Cham (aged 61) of Railway Cottages, Hazelhatch, Cellbridge but originally from Hong Kong, had been charged earlier this week under the Human Trafficking Act for facilitating the entry of non-nationals into the State on January 9 and January 22 last.

He did not make an application for bail when he was brought before Dublin District Court on Tuesday.

He was remanded in custody and appeared at Cloverhill District Court today but did not apply for bail.

Defence solicitor Fiona McNulty applied for legal aid. A statement of Mr Cham's means had already been furnished to the court.

However, there was a garda objection to legal aid being granted and Judge Victor Blake adjourned ruling on that issue for further documentation to be obtained.

Mr Cham was further remanded in custody to appear at the same court on February 10 next.

Co-defendant, Chinese national Xing Wang (aged 28) who is of no-fixed abode, is charged under the Theft and Fraud Act with possessing a false Hong Kong passport at the white car park at Dublin Airport on Sunday, January 22.

He also has two connected charges under the Immigration Act for failing to present to an immigration officer on his arrival in the State and not having a passport.

He has not applied for bail and also appeared at Cloverhill District Court on Friday and he too was further remanded in custody to appear again on February 10 next.

The third co-defendant, Aer Lingus worker Peter Kernan (aged 56) of the Old Rectory Lodge, Cellbridge, Co Kildare has the same charge as Mr Cham and is due to face his next hearing on January 31 next.

Gardai have seized his passport and on Tuesday he had been remanded in custody with consent to bail in his own bond of 2,000 with a 20,000 independent surety and conditions to reside at his home address and notify gardai of any change, sign on three times a week at Leixlip Garda station, provide gardai with a mobile phone number on which he can be contacted at all times, not apply for a new passport and have no contact directly or indirectly with Mr Cham.

The three were arrested as part of an investigation by the Garda National Immigration Bureau into an alleged people smuggling ring.

They have not yet indicated how they will plead.
A Thai court has sentenced an opponent of the military government to more than 11 years in prison for posting material on the internet which was found to be insulting to the country's monarchy.

The military court halved the sentence for Burin Intin from an original 22 years and eight months for two offences as he pleaded guilty to the lese majeste charge as well as to violating the Computer Crime Act by posting illegal content.
When Paste magazine first hit newsstands in 2002, each issue came with a CD sampler of songs from up-and-coming bands featured in the pubs pages. The popular promotion helped Paste, which began as a quarterly then ramped up to bi-monthly, quickly climb the music-mag charts, peaking at more than 100,000 subscribers. But just as the compact disc gave way to digital downloads, the internet crippled print ad rates, and in 2010, Paste was forced to abandon its book and join the growing ranks of web-only publications.

Then a few years later a funny thing started happening in the music world. Audiophiles yearning for a more tactile experience turned to a medium largely thought to be deadvinyl records. Part of the LP revival was due to nostalgia, but music lovers also wanted something they could hold, keep, and collectsomething that lasts. Now Paste, which is based just east of Atlanta, is betting that devotees to the printed word, particularly in-depth stories about music and pop-culture, feel a similar yearning for the old-fashioned feel of ink and paper. Paste Quarterly, the titles first physical book in nearly seven years, hits mailboxes this March.

And in true Paste fashion, the issue also includes a music sampler of exclusive material recorded by bands in the Paste Studio in New York. The compilation will be pressed on 150-gram, sea-foam green vinyl.

The whole idea of having a print magazine is to have something that is worth saving, something that feels wonderful and tangible and has this collectible quality, says Josh Jackson, who co-founded the magazine with two college buddies and has stayed on as editor in chief of the website. Youll want to put it out on your coffee table or on your bookshelf.

Paste is just the latest pop-culture pub to dip a toe back into ink. In 2014, Chicago-based online music mag Pitchfork launched Pitchfork Review, a quarterly dedicated to long-form writing, comics, sweeping photography, and design. Last October, New York-centered Spin put out its first print edition in four years.

Our job as a music publication is to give the readers things to read, things to contextualize, things to discover but to also, maybe subconsciously, emphasize how important music is as an art form, says Chris Kaskie, president of Pitchfork. And as we discussed how to best display that ideology, we thought that, in the same way that an artist creates a record and presses vinyl, for us, this was a way that we could create what we thought a music magazine should look like, something that could be representative of a time and place but also something you could look back on forever. It was our version of putting a record out. Theres some nostalgia attached to it; theres some defiance. Its all rooted in the celebration of music as an art form.

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But bibliophiles might hold off on firing up their presses for the revolution. Publishing consultant Lou Ann Sabatier says that while print is far from dead, with hundreds of magazine launches each year, its very rare for a title to return to print after going all in on the web. And when they do, its usually in a much different waytheres no going back to the way it was.

Theyre coming back very different, says Sabatier of Paste. Theyre really marketing it as part of a platform, of which print can be an anchor. Its a different experience. Longform journalism is really tough, digitally. People now will scroll down for more than 800 words, but if theres something they want to delve into, sometimes you want to hold it and you dont want it to go away. You want to study it. You want to be with it.

Jackson agrees. Despite this heralded return to the physical page, hes under no delusion that Paste will be anything other than a web-first publication moving forward, and hes not the least bit sad about the fact. After the initial growing pains of going solely digital, the re-staffing and re-focus on daily content, the site is now attracting more than 7 million unique visitors each month. In recent years, theyve expanded their coverage from primarily music and film to include television, comics, politics, and drinking. The staff of 13 full-timers and 26 part-timers is twice as big as it was during the print-mags peak, and, in Jacksons opinion, the quality of the writing has finally caught up.

The idea of going back into print is not so much to try to recover the glory days of Paste, says Jackson. We wanted to create something for our core audience that would augment what were doing online. Having learned the hard lessons of newsstand sales and ad rates, Paste Quarterly is crowd-funded, and as of January 20, the Indiegogo campaign had raised more than $147,000, exceeding its $100,000 goal by nearly 50 percent.

I believe that there is a place for a luxurious, very special publication that comes out infrequently and is expensive, says Jackson. If the readers are paying for the costs and youre not relying on advertising you can do something really beautiful and big. Something that feels like an event when it shows up in your mailbox.

The first issue costs $20; a years subscription runs $70. The hefty price tag buys a 12-by-12-inch, thick-stock book packed with the lush photography, illustration, and longform writing that would feel constrained by a screen, along with an LP you can hold, pull from its sleeve, blow off the dust, and drop the needle while you unplug with a good book.

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Tony Rehagen has written for Pacific Standard, GQ, Bloomberg, and ESPN The Magazine. He is based in St. Louis and is on Twitter @trehagen.
On Jan. 14, a TV reporter for Denvers 9News covered a public constituent meeting held by Republican congressman Mike Coffman, who is helping lead an effort to repeal Obamacare. The meeting, held at the Aurora Central Library, attracted more than 100 people, plenty of whom wanted answers about the future of their health insurance. Coffman didnt stick around to talk to everybody, and the 9News reporter caught him walking out a back door and getting into a waiting car a few minutes before the event was scheduled to end.

It was a scene ready-made to go viral, and a social media post by the local reporter has racked up nearly 3,000 retweets.

While more than 100 people were waiting to meet with him, Mike Coffman sneaks out early from his own community event. #9News pic.twitter.com/NAZlXTKgQm  Nelson Garcia (@9NewsEducation) January 14, 2017

Coffmans early departure was a key point in the 9News story, which national media quickly picked up. Some framed the scene as a potential sign of a broader backlash to efforts to repeal Obamacare.

However, a conservative local blog, Colorado Peak Politics, pushed back against 9News and the subsequent snowballing coverage, calling it a fake news story. To substantiate its claim that Coffman didnt leave early, the blog leaned on a report in The Denver Post that directly contradicted 9News. The Denver Post didnt have a journalist at the meeting, and the paper erroneously reported that Coffman stayed for the duration of the scheduled event. An anonymous author at Colorado Peak Politics used the error in part to support the blogs fake news allegation.

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The Denver Post corrected its error three days later. (The correction notes that Coffman left his 90 minute constituent meeting early.) But the Post error was enough to give Coffman-friendly forces cover to label a credible news report as fake news. And the use of that error by a website with a point of viewto justify a charge of fake news against a credible outletwasnt an isolated incident.

Related: What Trump can (and cant) do to restrict press freedom

A few days after The Denver Posts correction, a similar event played out on the national stage. During his Saturday speech to CIA staff, President Donald Trump went off-script to lay into Time magazine reporter Zeke Miller for an error Miller made in a White House press pool report. Miller, whose view was obscured by an agent and door, couldnt see a bust of Martin Luther King, Jr., and wrote that it had been removed from the Oval Office. In fact, it had not.

Saying the bust was missing was a bad mistake, and Miller corrected his pool report within 30 minutes, according to CNN; he also posted a string of apologies on Twitter. But the backlash to Millers error ended up becoming a story in itself. Trump himself called out Millers mistake as an example of how dishonest the media is. White House spokesman Sean Spicer, who accepted Millers apology, also tweeted that the error was a reminder of the media danger of tweet first check facts later.

Trump himself did not call Time magazine fake news. But the Trump-friendly Breitbart.com took up that charge in an item about the incident, which ran under this headline: Fake News on Day One: Spicer Scolds Press for TIME Reporters False Martin Luther King Bust Story.

Is there actionable advice for reporters here? Beyond, Hey, lets try to be more diligent in our reporting, maybe not. Reporters should always be diligentthat hasnt changed.

What has changed, it seems, is the atmosphere. The Denver Posts mistake briefly enabled a conservative blog to promote its own take as authoritative, and challenged the ability of 9News to do the same.

As many credible news organizations try to present information to a divided and perhaps mistrustful audience, events like the dustup in Denver show how ideologically motivated media might work to confirm its own biases, and how that could imperil relationships between news outlets and the communities they serve. Wielded against local outlets, the suspicion of fake news might compound one reporters error, or be used to discredit the work of another reporter and sow the electorates distrust of the news mediaeven in the face of video evidence.

The episode in Colorado eluded tidy resolution. While The Denver Post corrected its story, Colorado Peak Politics had not a week later. An author of the blog told me via Twitter that the Posts correction had escaped their attention.

We certainly strive to be accurate and correct when we know, and while we update and correct when we can, [we] still dont think its fair to claim [Coffman] bailed on his constituents, the contributor said. For all we know, he could have had his watch set a few [minutes] ahead and thought he was leaving on time.

For his part, the congressman at the heart of the story said he hopes to hold a future public event that can accommodate more people. When he does, you can bet more than one reporter will show up.

Has America ever needed a media watchdog more than now? Help us by joining CJR today

Corey Hutchins is CJRs correspondent based in Colorado, where he teaches journalism at Colorado College. A former alt-weekly reporter in South Carolina, he was twice named journalist of the year in the weekly division by the SC Press Association. Hutchins writes about politics and media for the Colorado Independent and worked on the State Integrity Investigation at the Center for Public Integrity; he has contributed to Slate, The Nation, the Washington Post, and others. Follow him on Twitter @coreyhutchins or email him at coreyhutchins@gmail.com.
Reporters in Texas have long enjoyed an unusual level of access to their state legislators. But when the legislative session started earlier this month, they became the latest statehouse journalists to find that access diminished in the name of order and propriety. And as the adversarial relationship between the Trump administration and the press intensifies, some Texas reporters argue a similar enmity is helping to fuel access changes in their state.

Texas Senate rules allow journalists on the floor, provided that they remain outside the brass railings that delineate the area where senators sit and debate. Until this session, reporters would often sit in chairs that bordered the rails. There, or in a nearby alcove, they could grab impromptu interviews with legislators.

Now, journalists have been ordered to stay at their specially designated press table on the floor, or else retreat to the gallery. Theyve also been prohibited from conducting interviews on the floor. Senators made the change in order to bring more decorum to the chamber, senate secretary Patsy Spaw says. And while that change may seem small, some who cover the statehouse say it will make it much harder to do their job.

Its a very, very big change, says Ken Herman, a columnist at the Austin American-Statesman, who has covered the state senate since 1981.

Herman acknowledges that its still possible to request interviews while on the senate floor. A reporter must pass a note to a messenger and arrange to speak with a senator outside the chamber. But, he says, that makes the process much more cumbersome. In the past, when senators passed the press table, you [would] just follow and chat, and theyre happy to do it. Thats a little less formal, and easier on everyone involved.

Christopher Hooks, a freelancer whose clients include the Texas Observer and Texas Monthly, argues that senators will be less likely to grant interviews if they have to leave the chamber to speak with reporters. Besides, he says, much of what passes between journalists and senators isnt formal interviewing. A lot of the conversation is just about whats happening, what the negotiations might be on a particular bill, he says.

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Is there any substance to the call for more decorum? Herman acknowledges that the chamber has occasionally become too loud. But, he says, I cant get beyond the fact that in the current mode were in with media and office holders, that this was just a subterfuge for giving us less access.And frankly, a lot of them probably hear from their constituents that they dont trust or like the media.

Hooks says some of the Tea Party Republicans who dominate the senate have taken real beatings in the press, and some have dished out criticism in return. Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick said recently that the only people who oppose the Texas bathroom bill in surveys are Anglo liberals, and many of them work in the media.

Brandi Grissom, Austin bureau chief for The Dallas Morning Newswhich ran an editorial decrying the rule change for journalistssays she doesnt see it as part of a wider disintegration of the politician-press relationship. Regarding the reasons for the changes, she says, All I can do is take them at their word. I dont know of any ulterior motive.

Despite the changes, statehouse reporters in Texas still experience better access than many of their compatriots in other states. In some parts of the country, journalists arent allowed on the legislative floor at all, but instead must report from designated media seats in the gallery, or even from seats allotted to the general public.

That was the case in Virginia for about three weeks last January. Reporters who arrived for the first day of the session were turned away from their usual table on the floor and sent up to the gallery.

We immediately protested over this, because we cant see as well, we cant see certain parts of the chamber at all, we cant hear as well, says statehouse reporter Patrick Wilson, then of The Virginian-Pilot, now with the Richmond Times-Dispatch. And were going up and down stairs if we want to try to talk to a senator.

After a lot of press coverage and a fair amount of public outrage, Wilson says, Senate Majority Leader Tommy Norment reversed the decision. Wilson says no clear reason was given for the initial change, but adds, My own thought was Senator Norment, like a lot of politicians, is not always in a good relationship with the news media.

Press secretary for the Virginia Republican caucus Jeff Ryer, however, says the motivation was more practical. The senate chamber is relatively small here in Virginia. There is not a lot of room. The press corps was seated in an area that put them directly between the senators and the clerk staff, and that was becoming cumbersome.

As for any difficulties the move may have imposed on journalists, Ryer isnt buying it. Just about everybody knows the press corps members are creatures of habit, and also might have a tendency in the profession towardswhat do you call that? Obsessive-compulsive disorder, Ryer says, chuckling.

The change has been more profound in Wyomings legislature, which in 2013 moved journalists (except for photographers and cameramen) from the floor to the gallery. Legislative support manager Anthony Sara says the move was precipitated by outlets blurring the lines between reporting and other activities. Wyoming officials noted in response to a 2014 survey by the National Conference of State Legislatures, This change was made because more entities were registering as mediasome of which also were registered to lobby.

Wyoming Tribune Eagle Managing Editor Brian Martin says that move was a minor inconvenience, but the situation worsened when remodeling started at the old capitol building and the legislature moved into temporary facilities: an old Kmart store.

Now the reporter has to sit in the senate or house gallery, which is a glass walled-off room where the public looks into and sees the backs of everybodys heads, except for the senate president or house speaker, Martin says. So we can only get pictures of certain legislators. It becomes the same people all the time, as opposed to everybody in the senate or everybody in the house.

Martins struggle for good photos could serve as a metaphor for the trend of moving journalists further away from legislators. Many of the reporters we spoke to acknowledged that complaints about sight lines might seem like a non-issue to the uninitiated.

However, as Wilson says, Were not sitting [on the floor] because we enjoy being close to the senators and get a kick out of it. Its to be the eyes and ears of the public, and report to them.

Has America ever needed a media watchdog more than now? Help us by joining CJR today

Tamar Wilner is a Dallas-based freelance journalist and researcher who writes about misinformation, fact-checking, science communication, and all things media. She tweets at @tamarwilner.
Mobile expo kicks off

Lalitpur Mobile Expo 2017 kicked off at Lalitpur Mobile Complex on Friday.
It is easy to lead when things are going well. However, when situations turn sour, leadership can become messy if you dont maintain the correct focus.

The credit union industry  a vital component of the nations economy and now serving more than 106 million members  knows how to lead in a difficult environment, and how to lead well. This industry is constantly under attack, facing everything from overly burdensome regulations to the ongoing assault on its federally tax-exempt status. Despite these attacks, the industry continues to strengthen and further prove its mettle.

The credit union exemption has been in the crosshairs of the banking industry since its inception. NAFCU, seeking to preserve an environment where credit unions can thrive, this week issued an independent study showing the benefits to U.S. consumers from credit unions tax-exempt status. That economic benefit comes in at $16 billion per year, or $159 billion over the 10-year period the study examined.

Its not just credit union members who benefit from credit unions tax-exempt status; bank customers benefit as well. A 50 percent reduction in credit unions market share would cost bank customers an estimated $6.9 billion to $15.7 billion per year in higher loan rates and lower deposit rates. The total losses to bank customers due to less-favorable rates would total $102.2 billion over the 10-year period examined.
Amsterdam, The Netherlands: Cancer patients are living longer and in many cases the disease is becoming chronic rather than acute. Access to drugs that help extend life and improve quality of life, and fair prices for those drugs are therefore essential for more and more people. But patients are badly served in this respect, with delays in the availability of new treatments and incomprehensible price rises for well-established therapies, including generics, researchers will tell the European Cancer Congress 2017 [1] today (Saturday).

There is no value for patients if new cancer drugs are developed and approved but they are unable to benefit from them, says Markus Hartmann PhD, Principal Consultant of European Consulting and Contracting in Oncology, a regulatory affairs consultancy based in Trier, Germany.

Approval decisions for cancer drugs are currently granted centrally by the European Commission, in order to ensure that risk/benefit judgments are applied on the same basis across the European Union. But decisions on reimbursement and pricing, and therefore on access to new medicines, are taken at individual EU Member State level, and this results in major differences in the overall availability as well as the time taken before patients are able to obtain new medicines, adds co-author Daniel Droschel, Market Access Consultant at MArS Market Access & Pricing Strategy GmbH, Weil am Rhein (Germany).

The researchers studied approval processes for the 48 new cancer drugs that were evaluated between 2011-15 by the European Medicines Agency for use in the European Union. In 17 cases, approvals were based on a principal trial using overall survival [2] as the primary endpoint; in 19 cases on trials using progression-free survival [3]; and in 12 cases on trials - most often single-arm trials - using overall response rate [4] as primary endpoints.

"These new drugs all show clinical benefit," says Dr Hartmann. "Our data indicate in the overall survival group a median survival gain of 3.0 months, while in the progression-free survival group the median gain was 3.8 months. However, the trial design, trial endpoint and magnitude of effect is evaluated quite differently by the health technology assessment (HTA) authorities in the UK, France and Germany, even though they reviewed the same, or very similar, clinical data."

These disparities in national HTA outcomes depend on a number of factors. Additionally, HTAs use different methodologies in their assessments: France, as well as the UK's National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) and the Scottish Medical Council, apply health economics that have an impact on the final reimbursement decision, whereas Germany relies purely on a benefit assessment followed by price negotiations.

"In our study, in France and Germany around 80% of decisions were positive, whereas for UK's NICE, every third assessment ended with a negative outcome," Dr Hartmann will say. Patients' access to new cancer drugs in England and Wales is also hampered by later decision-making compared with Scotland, France and Germany, he adds.

In a second presentation, Dr Andrew Hill, Senior Research Fellow in the Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, UK, will tell the congress that UK prices for cancer drugs, including generics, have recently shown a sharp rise. Between 2011 and 2016, prices for some common drugs increased by more than 1000%. At a time when the UK Cancer Drugs Fund is being re-examined because of the pressure caused by high prices, this is particularly worrying, says Dr Hill.

"We were surprised to find several companies consistently raising the prices of cancer treatment. Twenty treatments have shown rises of over 100% in the last five years, and in two - busulfan (used to treat leukaemia) and tamoxifen (breast cancer) - prices have increased by over 1000%. We have found that some companies take over the supply of some generic cancer medicines and then raise the price progressively," Dr Hill will say.

In the UK, the Department of Health is aware of this issue and has introduced the Health Services Medical Supplies (Costs) Bill in order to be able to regulate prices in the future, he says. Companies found to be raising prices with no clear justification will be referred to the Competition and Markets Authority, and could face fines.

Paying these high prices puts undue strain on health systems, and the long-term result could be negative consequences for disease progression and survival. The researchers say that they are finding similar cases in other European countries. In Spain and Italy, failure to accept the high prices demanded for some generic treatments has led to warnings from companies that they could stop their supply.

"We hope that, by explaining what we have found in the UK, other European countries will take note and protect themselves against these kinds of price rises," says Dr Hill. "At a time when cancer patients are living longer and better lives due to effective treatments, this situation is particularly worrying."

Ms Melissa Barber, from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK, will describe to the congress the results of her analysis of the manufacturing costs of all the medicines used to treat cancer included in the World Health Organisation's (WHO's) Essential Medicines List.

The results show that several key cancer treatments could be manufactured for less than one per cent of the prices charged in the US and UK. "For example, tamoxifen, used to treat breast cancer, can be manufactured for less than two US dollars per month of treatment, and imatinib, used in the treatment of chronic myeloid leukaemia, can be produced for $54 per month," Ms Barber will say.

Costs this low could form the initial step in setting up programmes in low and middle income countries for the mass treatment of certain cancers, following the successful precedent of mass treatment for HIV and AIDS. The researchers would like to see the expansion of pilot studies for such treatments; such pilots exist already for cancer treatment in Rwanda and Haiti.

"Showing that certain cancers could be treated for very low prices could transform the future of people with these cancers in very low-income countries where there are usually few or no treatment options," Ms Barber will conclude.

Professor Ian Banks, ECCO Board Member and chair of the Patient Advisory Committee, who was not involved with the research, commented: "Research presented at the ECCO Congress covers the whole of the cancer field, including important policy issues like those raised in these abstracts. The availability and pricing of treatments are of great interest and concern to cancer patients, and we consider it important to encourage the widest possible debate on them, as well as on other issues that affect patients' quality of life."

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Abstract nos: 970 (Hartmann) and 966 (Hill), Health Economics of Cancer proffered paper session, Saturday 15.00 hrs (CET), Room Blackburn; 1032 (Barber), Health Economics of Cancer poster session, Sunday, 09.00 hrs (CET), Hall 1.

[1] The European Cancer Congress is the only truly multidisciplinary oncology congress in the world. It is organised by the European CanCer Organisation (ECCO), a not-for-profit federation of 25 member societies, representing over 80,000 professionals working in cancer.

[2] Overall survival is the time measured until the occurrence of death from any cause.

[3] Progression-free survival is the time during which the disease does not worsen or progress, or at which death from any cause occurs.

[4] Overall response rate is a measure of the proportion of patients in which a defined reduction in tumour burden is observed after a certain time.

[5] Dr Hill's research was partly funded by the Open Society Foundation. Ms Barber's research was funded by the World Health Organisation.
Amsterdam, The Netherlands: Clinical trials of a new immunotherapy, pembrolizumab, have shown that it prolongs life significantly for patients with bladder cancer and is active against a rare sub-type of melanoma, called mucosal melanoma. The findings were presented in two presentations at the European Cancer Congress 2017 [1] today (Sunday).

Until now, mucosal melanoma has often been excluded from immunotherapy treatments for the disease. Melanoma usually occurs in the skin and is caused by exposure to ultraviolet radiation (such as sunlight). Mucosal melanoma occurs in the moist surfaces that line the body's cavities, such as the airways, digestive tract and genitourinary tracts, and is not caused by UV radiation; there is no known cause. It makes up about one per cent of all melanomas and has a poor prognosis, usually because of late diagnosis - the majority of patients with metastatic disease (cancer that has spread to other parts of the body) survive for less than a year if they have received conventional treatments.

Reporting the results from three trials of pembrolizumab for patients with advanced melanoma, Dr Marcus Butler, a medical oncologist at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Canada, told ECCO2017 that 84 of the 1567 patients in the KEYNOTE-001, 002 and 006 studies had advanced mucosal melanoma.

"Sixteen of these patients (19%) responded to treatment with pembrolizumab, of whom 12 are still alive without their disease progressing and, so far, the longest time some of these patients have continued to be successfully treated is more than 27 months," he said.

Of the 1483 patients in these KEYNOTE trials who had other forms of advanced melanoma and who received at least one dose of pembrolizumab, 33% responded to the treatment, 72% were still alive without their disease progressing and the median (average) [2] overall survival time was nearly two years. Median overall survival for patients with mucosal melanoma was 11.3 months.

"Immunotherapy for melanoma has revolutionised treatment of the disease. There are some patients with mucosal melanoma who have had complete responses to pembrolizumab and essentially return to a normal life. Some, of course, have less spectacular responses, but they still benefit from therapy. In earlier studies, mucosal melanoma was excluded since it is a rare subtype. These findings suggest that mucosal melanoma patients should be offered immunotherapy as standard of care and not excluded. Response rates may be a bit lower than for other types of melanoma, so further studies to improve benefit need to be conducted."

Pembrolizumab works by binding to PD-1 and blocking the interaction between PD-1 and its ligands, PD-L1 and PD-L2, thereby activating T lymphocyte cells which may affect both tumour cells and healthy cells. PD-1 (programmed cell death protein 1) is a receptor on the surface of T cells (the white blood cells that are part of the immune system), while PD-L1 (programmed death-ligand 1) is a molecule that binds to PD-1 and is often over-expressed on the surface of cancer cells, enabling them to evade the immune system and allow cancer to grow and spread.

In the KEYNOTE trials, 70% of the mucosal melanoma patients with known PD-L1 status had PD-L1 positive tumours.

"The data presented here are important because they prove that patients with mucosal melanoma can benefit from anti-PD-1 therapy and should not be excluded from this treatment," said Dr Butler. "At this stage we don't know why some mucosal melanoma patients responded to pembrolizumab, while others did not. This is an important question and research is ongoing."

Ninety per cent of the mucosal melanoma patients had already received at least one prior treatment and 39% of them had received ipilimumab, a type of monoclonal antibody that is already used in the treatment of melanoma. Dr Butler said: "Our results show that patients benefited from pembrolizumab regardless of whether or not they had been pre-treated with ipilimumab."

Patients in the KEYNOTE trials received pembrolizumab intravenously at doses of 2 mg/kg or 10 mg/kg every three weeks, or 10 mg/kg every two weeks.

Chair of the Congress and President of ECCO, Professor Peter Naredi, from the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden, who was not involved with the research, commented: "For rare cancer types it is difficult to evaluate new treatments in normal sized trials. But here Butler and colleagues pull three trials together and show that long-lasting responses also occur with pembrolizumab in patients with mucosal melanoma."

In a second, late-breaking presentation, Dr Andrea Necchi, attending physician in the Department of Medical Oncology at the Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy, said results from the phase III KEYNOTE-045 trial showed that treatment with pembrolizumab resulted in longer overall survival with fewer side-effects for patients with previously treated advanced bladder (urothelial) cancer compared with patients given chemotherapy.

He said: "KEYNOTE-045 is a landmark study. It represents a real advance in the second-line treatment of advanced bladder cancer because pembrolizumab is the first therapy to show a significant survival advantage over chemotherapy for these patients.

"Patients who were treated with pembrolizumab lived significantly longer than patients who were treated with chemotherapy; the median overall survival was 10.3 months with pembrolizumab and 7.4 months with chemotherapy. In addition to helping patients live longer, more patients treated with pembrolizumab responded to treatment and for a longer duration than those treated with chemotherapy; the objective response rate - the percentage of patients whose tumours shrank or disappeared - was almost twice as high with pembrolizumab: 21% compared to 11% on chemotherapy. The median duration of response for patients who responded to pembrolizumab has not been reached, while the median duration of response for patients who responded to chemotherapy was only 4.3 months. We estimate that almost twice as many pembrolizumab responders will respond to the therapy for at least one year: 68% versus 35%."

He said survival and response benefits for pembrolizumab were seen regardless of the levels of PD-L1 expression.

"In addition to the overall survival benefit over chemotherapy, pembrolizumab was also associated with a much lower incidence of treatment-related side effects. This is important because this patient population tends to be mostly elderly patients who have many other illnesses and health conditions as well. These results support the use of pembrolizumab as the new standard of care for advanced bladder cancer," concluded Dr Necchi.

Side effects of any grade of severity were reported in 61% of patients treated with pembrolizumab compared with 90% of patients treated with chemotherapy, and more severe side effects that were grade 3, 4, or 5 (the most severe grade) were reported in 15% and 49% of patients, respectively.

Bladder (urothelial) cancer is the seventh most common cancer in men and the seventeenth most common in women worldwide. Approximately 430,000 new cases are diagnosed each year worldwide; in the European Union (EU) there are approximately 180,500 new cases each year and 38,200 people die from it.

At present there is no standard second-line therapy for advanced bladder cancer. The chemotherapies paclitaxel, docetaxel and vinflunine are commonly used but provide limited benefit. The KEYNOTE-45 study randomised 542 patients from 29 countries between November 2014 and November 2015 to either pembrolizumab (200 mg, given intravenously once every three weeks for up to 24 months) or one of three chemotherapy options chosen by study investigators. The patients all had advanced urothelial cancer that had already been treated with platinum-based chemotherapy.

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Saturday, January 28, 2017

Introduction

It's that time of year before the February 1st deadline (midnight Norway time is 5pm Chicago time) for nominations for the Nobel Peace Prize. Here are 19 press releases that tell the biographical tale of the long evolution of the stunningly precise Peace Economics theory. The interdisciplinary breadth of my background was all necessary to create this theory. Any missing components of my Nine Areas of Mastery and this development would not have been possible. Art and Religion add flavor to the Nine but are not crucial. That also makes it nearly impossible to find a peer group to judge my work adequately. I turn to the Norwegian Nobel Committee for judgment of extraordinary work. To nominate: http://www.nobelprize.org/nomination/peace/.

Nine Masteries

MATH was my first great North Star to follow and lead to all the rest. Precision and imagination were crucial to using this powerful tool. I developed three mathematical methodologies before I was taught them in the schools, so I learned how to take discovery to the next logical step.

WARGAMING I loved board games as a child and war games had enough challenge and realism to meet my needs. Gary Gygax, the inventor of "Dungeons and Dragons" with a biography entitled "Empire of Imagination" became a mentor of imagination to follow and gave me the background to understand the strategic military side of military spending.

SCIENCE Physics provided a parallel universe with accurate pursuit of the scientific method.

ENGINEERING gave me the excellence to apply Math and Physics in the pursuit of working mechanisms.

ACCOUNTING gave me a system to evaluate and organize numbers and the determination to come to an honest result when all else fails.

BUSINESS taught me many tools to organize people to achieve a specific practical purpose.

POLITICS gave me a breadth of vision in the social sciences and the world of people to fill in the holes left over from deep pursuit of the more narrow areas cited above.

PEACE ECONOMICS took six months to produce the long term United States economic model and the first book that brought it all together.

NATURAL GLOBAL WARMING took me three years to comprehend the linkages of the three 54 year cycles of temperature, economics, and wars. Then another twenty years to find that the 55 year moving average produced three straight lines in the 160 year global temperature record.

The Journey

The following nineteen topics represent the biographical section of my press releases, detailing all the above. Complete copies of each release are in the link provided here and at the end. https://www.academia.edu/31102462/BIOGRAPHY_for_Nobel_Peace_Prize_2013-2017_23_p

Special Award 9-2-16

This Chicago suburban peace group awards a $1000 top prize for an annual essay contest. They gave me a special recognition award and five minute speech. I brought the house down.

Denmark Hamlet 8-20-16

This meeting of the Engineers for Peace held in Denmark had some interesting events.

CIA Live History 4-16-16

This is meant to take things out of the conspiracy theory label into the life experience I've had with the CIA and peace groups.

Learn in Japan 9-5-15

This trip to Hiroshima to be featured speaker at a conference there was a wonderful experience

Nader Yale Data 5-24-15

Meeting Ralph Nader in person at his conference and later going to a Yale Law conference and back home to UW Madison Big Data group in the Discovery Center there were all amazing.

Reputation 8-24-14

This contrasts the high reputation I had in Eugene Oregon with the struggles for recognition in my home town of Madison Wisconsin. West Coast versus Midwest.

Global Citizen 6-28-14

My application for Global Citizen came up short, but was encouraged to try again next year.

How I Did It 6-21-14

This is the tale of how I pieced together some lesser known work into one spectacular theory.

Wargamer to Dr Peace 5-25-14

This is about the evolution from wargamer to peace activist in the seventies and beyond.

Nashville 5-24-15

Many would expect conservative part of the country business professors to be hostile to the Peace Economics message, but Empire Economics won a Presentation Excellence Award thanks to their vote.

Politician 5-14-14

This is where I learned my social science, on the streets and coffee shops of Eugene, Oregon. I left the state on a first name basis with every statewide office holder of either party. I passed redistricting and venture capital changes in Salem Oregon, and wrote the state application for Delegate Selection to the Democratic National Convention of 1984.

Doctorate 5-9-14

This took a second try twenty years later to finally get my doctorate. Finally my work would be taken seriously.

Wargames 4-5-14

This introduced me to Gary Gygax in wargaming from 1964 to 1974. Gygax later created the "Dungeons and Dragons" role playing craze beginning in 1974. Gary taught me imagination.

PE First Course 3-18-14

This took advantage of the Innovative Education program at the University of Oregon in 1987. Peace Economics was taught for three straight years going from 2 credits to 3 credits to graduate level credit.

PE First Book 3-14-14

I self published and copyrighted "Peace Economics" in 1986, and it became an overnight sensation in Eugene Oregon.

How PE Starts 3-8-14

This all started with a brochure at a Fellowship of Reconciliation meeting in the famous Dorothy Patch house in Salem Oregon in March 1983. I was in the second of three Oregon Legislative Sessions at the time.

Grandpa Markham 3-1-14

This shows the roots I came from, with my middle name from my Horicon Marsh grandpa, lawyer, politician, and poet.

Numbers Words 1-30-14

This is the struggle of my life, from math wizard to eventually scientist and written author.

Dr Robert Reuschlein 10-10-13

This was the puffery of my introduction to the ExpertClick world.

Link for text of these releases:

https://www.academia.edu/31102462/BIOGRAPHY_for_Nobel_Peace_Prize_2013-2017_23_p
Friday, January 27, 2017

The decedent signed a life insurance beneficiary form a few weeks after having brain surgery. The plaintiff claimed the signature was not executed by the decedent. The defense claimed that the decedent had signed the document and the differences are attributed to the effects of brain surgery.

Several years ago, I was retained by the plaintiffs counsel where the plaintiff challenged the authenticity of the decedents signature on a life insurance beneficiary form. The scope of my retention was to determine the authenticity of the signature on the life insurance beneficiary form.

Background of the case

In October, 2012 the decedent underwent brain surgery for a glioblastoma tumor. Approximately one month after the surgery in November, 2012 the decedent allegedly signed a beneficiary form leaving the proceeds from a life insurance policy to a guardian. Originally a family member was designated as beneficiaries of the life insurance policy. A few weeks after the beneficiary form was signed, the decedent died. Upon her death family members contacted the life insurance company in anticipation of receiving the proceeds from the policy.

Life insurance company notified the family members that a new beneficiary form had been executed by the decedent. Therefore, the proceeds from the life insurance policy would be distributed to the caretaker rather than the family members.

Family members hired an attorney to challenge the signature on the life insurance beneficiary form. They noticed the substantial difference between the decedents known signatures and the signature on the life insurance beneficiary form.

The defense claimed the signature on the beneficiary form differed from the decedents known signatures because of the recent brain surgery. They contended the brain surgery had adverse effects on the decedents handwriting. An established concept in forensic document examination is when a consistent difference occurs between the questioned signature and the known signatures, there is a clear indication of two writers. Ordway Hilton, an established authority in questioned documents stated, Repeated small differences establish clearly that two specimens are clearly the work of two individuals despite a great number of general similarities. 1.

Methodology

Using generally accepted forensic document examination techniques, I compared and contrasted the questioned signature on the life insurance beneficiary form with the known signatures of the decedent. Although there were similarities, there were many differences. The differences were not explained within the range of variability of the decedents known writing. Generally accepted practices in forensic document examination state this indicates the questioned signature was not written by the decedent.

Due diligence required I investigate whether the differences were explainable by the brain surgery. If the brain surgery could affect the decedents handwriting, the differences could be explained by surgery.

As a forensic document examiner, I am not familiar with the potential impact of brain tumor surgery on the portions of the brain that affect handwriting. I have neither training nor education in the science of brain neurology. I contacted a neuropsychiatrist at the University of California at San Diego to learn whether literature exists describing the effects of surgery for glioblastoma tumors and handwriting. He referred an article in the journal Surgical Neurology.2 The Journal article states there is generally no impact to writing from this surgery. If the tumor is in specific areas of the brain there can be an impact to writing.

Opinion

After examining the similarities and differences between the signature on the beneficiary form and the decedents known signatures, I determined the differences clearly outweighed the similarities.

The study results in the journal article states that this brain surgery rarely has any effect on handwriting.

My opinion was the decedent probably did not write the signature on the life insurance beneficiary form. The term probably did not write is defined in both the ASTM and SWGDOC standards used by forensic document examiners. The term means it is more likely than not the questioned signature was not written by the person whose name appears in the signature.

1Hilton, O. (1982). Scientific Examination of Questioned Documents, Second Edition. Elsevier Science Publishing, Inc. New York. P. 161.

2Scarone, P, et al. (2009). Agraphia after awake surgery for brain tumor: new insights into the anatomo-functional network of writing. Surgical Neurology. 72, 223  241.
Friday, January 27, 2017

Overwhelmed by clutter every time you open a drawer, a cabinet or a closet? Try Gail Rubins Dump-A-Drawer approach to decluttering!

Frustrated that I couldnt find a specific item in my desk drawer due to an abundance of clutter, this approach helped clear the frustration in a jiffy.

Step 1: Remove the drawer with its contents inside.

Step 2: Dump the contents of the drawer into a cardboard box.

Step 3: Pick out the items that you actually use, need or want (its a remarkably small percentage).

Step 4: Donate the items in the box to a charity.

Step 5: Put the cleaned out, pared down drawer back in your desk, dresser or kitchen cabinet, with the items you are keeping neatly arranged.

Step 6: Smile every time you open the drawer and see how organized and clean it is.

This works with office spaces as well as personal spaces. I just used it to clean out the glove compartment in my automobile. Its especially great for releasing those promotional items that tend to proliferate and contribute to clutter.

For more great ideas on how to clear clutter, check out these blog posts on downsizing and buy a copy of KICKING THE BUCKET LIST: 100 Downsizing and Organizing Things to Do Before You Die. An author-autographed paperback version is $15.95 at AGoodGoodbye.com and less on Amazon.com, where the Kindle version is $7.99.

Theres also a handy 50-item Executors Checklist, guidance for the person who will take care of your after-death details, available as a free downloadable PDF here.

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Sink Green Farm

Accommodation Details

A very warm friendly welcome awaits you at Sink Green Farm with its 16th. Century stone farmhouse overlooking the picturesque Wye Valley and peaceful Herefordshire countryside, yet only three miles from the Cathedral City of Hereford.



The 170 acre farm has been in our family for over 90 years when it was purchased by my Grandfather to enable livestock purchased around the Welsh borders to be collected together and rested before being walked into Hereford market to be sold.



We started providing holiday accommodation in 1991 and believe that we are located in the ideal position for those who would like a relaxing holiday or somewhere to unwind after the pressures of business.



Day licences are available for coarse and salmon fishing, along part of our riverbank.

Accommodation Location




Government officials and senior police officers have been presented findings indicating that around 15,000 sheep were killed by loose dogs in 2016, more than ten times higher than the number previously thought.

The National Police Chief Council has bowed down to pressure and agreed to set up a team to investigate how well regional forces react to complaints of dog attacks.

The problem has become so serious that sheep awareness group SheepWatch UK commissioned a report based on police statistics to understand for the first time the true scale of sheep deaths in the UK.

Aside from 15,000 sheep killed 2016, the figures also showed that 49 dogs were destroyed.

Campaigners say the issue is being made worse by bans or restrictions placed on dogs in more than 3,300 parks and open spaces over the last two years, which in turn forces their owners to take them into the countryside more frequently.

Terena Plowright, a Hampshire farmer and founder of SheepWatch UK said: More people are being forced into the countryside on a daily basis and that is what is pushing up the numbers of attacks.

Sheep attacks are devastating for farmers, who lose the value of the livestock killed and future earnings from those animals and their offspring, as well as having to pay for the carcasses to be removed.

Attacks on sheep by dogs were forcing some farmers out of business while others are having to sleep rough with their flocks to protect them, SheepWatch UK said.

'Threat to flock'

In some circumstances farmers are legally allowed to shoot dogs if they are endangering their sheep as long as they have lawful excuse.

Last week, a farmer warned dog owners he is prepared to shoot the next dog which poses a threat to his flock of sheep.

Tim White owns around 1,000 sheep, and has said he is fed up of having to put his own animals down after they have been attacked by loose dogs.

The Wiltshire farmer's threat to dog walkers who let their animals loose near his sheep comes after an attack on 300 of his sheep, on December 28.

Only recently on the 10th of January, dogs at a popular nature reserve in East Sussex attacked sheep, killing and injuring more than four.

It is estimated dog attacks on livestock costs the UK farming industry more than 2 million each year.
MoIC stumbles upon high-level panel after 13 years of its fromation

In Nepal, much happens in paper. This has been established once again as the government has just come to know about formation of a high-level committee to monitor the countrys telecommunications sector.
Andrea Leadsom has told the Oxford Farming Conference that the poultry housing order is to be extended until the end of February due to the risk of bird flu.

The Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales yesterday confirmed Avian Influenza H5N8 in a back yard flock of chickens and ducks on premises in Pontyberem, Carmarthenshire. Prior to confirmation it was decided to cull the birds on strong suspicion of disease.

A 3 kilometre Protection Zone and 10 kilometre Surveillance Zone have been put in place around the infected premises, to limit the risk of the disease spreading.

This is the same strain of the virus identified in a wild duck in Llanelli on 22 December, a turkey farm in Lincolnshire on 16th December and cases in wild, captive or domestic birds in many European countries, the Middle East and North Africa.

UK wild bird cases

19/12/2016 Carmarthenshire 1 Duck 1

19/12/2016 Dumfries and Galloway 1 Bird of prey 1

19/12/2016 Leicestershire 1 Duck 1

19/12/2016 Somerset 1 Duck 1

26/12/2016 Lincolnshire 1 Ducks 5

26/12/2016 Gloucestershire 1 Ducks, Geese 4

26/12/2016 Merseyside 1 Ducks, Gull, Cormorant 5

The Government says it is important that producers practice the 'very highest levels' of biosecurity.

EU regulations state that producers required by Government to house birds can retain their free range status as long as birds are not housed for longer than 12 weeks, after that the regulations state that they lose the free range status.

'Very real risk'

British Veterinary Association (BVA) Welsh Branch President, Neil Paton, said: This is the first incident of this avian flu strain in a kept flock of chickens and ducks and it shows the very real risk that the disease poses to backyard flocks.

A Prevention Zone has been put in place across the whole of Great Britain, requiring all poultry keepers to house their birds or, if that is not possible, to take measures that keep their birds separate from wild birds. This could include feeding and watering them under cover and keeping them away from standing water, so that wild birds are not attracted to visit.

Tight biosecurity, such as maintaining high levels of cleanliness and hygiene and not allowing visitors to come close to your birds, alongside preventing contact with wild birds are crucial to stopping the spread of this disease.
Hard hit rural communities across the UK are being given a helping hand by countryside charity, the Princes Countryside Fund, who have announced 670,000 of vital grant support for rural initiatives.

The Fund, established in 2010 by Prince Charles, has announced that it will be supporting 19 projects across the UK through its grant giving programme which has awarded over 8 million since 2010.

It aims to improve the prospects of family farm businesses and the quality of rural life, believing more is needed to be done to help those affected.

New projects include funding to assist the communities of Alfrick and Lulsley in Worcestershire, St Tudy in Cornwall, Wereham in Norfolk and Llangunllo in Wales to run vital community services and improve local assets.

Assistance in building networks of support for farming communities in the Peak District, Dartmoor, Herefordshire and Cumbria and the Yorkshire Dales has been provided as well as specialist advice and support to build business resilience and develop farmers skills.

Grants have also been awarded to train the next generation of forestry and woodland managers in Scotland and Wales and to support Scottish island processing enterprises.

'Innovative projects'

Lord Curry of Kirkharle, chairman of The Princes Countryside Fund said: We are delighted to be able to support such a wide range of innovative projects that will provide a lasting legacy in so many rural areas.

The next five years are critical for our rural communities and against a background of growing uncertainty, our grant programme provides essential support to people living and working in the countryside.

Rural communities need to be prioritised. It is easy to forget just how much we depend on rural businesses and family farms. With an ageing rural population and a shortage of new entrants embarking on rural careers, it is vital that we continue to support grassroots initiatives to ensure we maintain a thriving and sustainable future for our rural communities.

There has been a 67 per cent increase in requests for help from working farmers in 2016, according to rural charity, R.A.B.I.

Grants awarded

Alfrick and Lulsley Community: 27,000

Dartmoor Hill Farm Project: 44,000

Devon Cattle Breeders' Society: 24,000

Devon Communities Together: 49,961

Falkland Stewardship Trust: 30,000

Farming Community Network: 27,475

Friends of Nidderdale AOB: 50,000

Groundwork North Wales: 47,259

Herefordshire Rural Hub: 46,680

Llangunllo Community Hall: 5,000

Myerscough College: 30,600

Pasture Fed Livestock Association: 40,500

Patterdale Parish Community Flood Group: 25,000

SAOS: 50,000

The Farmer Network: 49,520

The Farming Life Centre: 13,146

The St Tudy Community Shop: 25,000

Wereham Village Hall: 31,650

Yorkshire Dales Rivers Trust: 50,000
Marts to donate Scotch Lamb for St Andrew's Day campaign
Each year, thousands of migrants pass through Niger. Many of them travelling this route are in dire need of assistance. In Agadez, a centre run by the Red Cross Society of Niger and supported by the ICRC provides aid to the most vulnerable among them.

Migrants have to survive the dust and blazing heat of the desert.

CC BY-NC-ND / ICRC / F. Therrien / v-p-ne-e-00108

"The plight of these migrants is of great concern. When they arrive in Agadez, they're often physically and mentally exhausted," said Jean-Nicolas Marti, head of the ICRC delegation in Niger. "They sometimes travel up to a thousand kilometres across the desert in cramped lorries and sweltering heat. Some die on the way."

These migrants come from sub-Saharan Africa. They may be fleeing conflict or poverty in their countries or simply looking for a better life. Some make it to Libya or Algeria and either stay there or head for Europe; others are stopped on the way or sent home. They include people from Niger itself and from Mali, Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Central African Republic.

From a humanitarian standpoint, their journey is an ordeal. They have to cross regions where conflict and other forms of violence are rife and deal with situations that can seriously affect both their physical and their mental health. "Some are arrested, detained and expelled. They may also find themselves trapped in the desert, destitute and unable to contact their families. They are totally unprotected, which means they are easy prey for attackers. Sometimes they just disappear without a trace," said Mr Marti.

Aid for 7,000 migrants in 2013

In the Agadez centre, which was set up by the Red Cross Society of Niger in 2011 and receives financial support from the ICRC, migrants are offered shelter and three hot meals a day. They are also given other basic essentials, such as hygiene products. This humanitarian work is organized in conjunction with the Niger authorities.

"With our partners at the Niger Red Cross, we're working to meet the most basic needs of the migrants we receive," said Maxime Dohogne, an ICRC delegate in Niger. "We focus on the needs of the most vulnerable migrants, regardless of their legal status, providing them with what comfort we can. Our work is strictly of a humanitarian nature  we don't get involved in either encouraging or preventing migration."

In 2013, more than 19,000 meals were handed out to some 7,000 individuals, while medical staff from the French Red Cross treated over 2,000 sick or injured migrants. So far this year, more than 1,100 migrants have received aid.

Some migrants arrive at the centre with major psychiatric problems. "Getting them looked after is not easy, but we always work something out with the health-care services, the migrants family or the diplomatic representatives from the migrant's country of origin," said Ismael Mahaman, a member of the Red Cross Society of Niger and the centre's administrator.

Both at the centre in Agadez and in the offices in Dirkou and Arlit run by Niger Red Cross volunteers, migrants can contact their families using the free phone lines installed by the ICRC. In 2013, migrants made over 3,200 calls to their loved ones.

A matter of survival

In extreme cases where migrants find themselves trapped in the desert, and when other humanitarian organizations are unable to help, the ICRC arranges transport for the migrants to Agadez. Last year, the ICRC helped almost 800 migrants reach Agadez safely. To avoid such life-threatening situations, the Red Cross Society of Niger and the ICRC have renovated five wells  the only sources of water along the migrants' route.

For further information, please contact:

Oumarou Daddy Rabiou, ICRC Niamey, tel: +227 96 66 99 12

Wolde-Gabriel Saugeron, ICRC Geneva, tel: +41 22 730 31 49 or +41 79 244 64 05
The trial of a mother accused of trafficking a Nigerian woman into the country and forcing her to work as a prostitute has finished hearing prosecution witnesses.

The complainant has previously told a jury she underwent a voodoo process in her home country during which she swore she would not report the alleged trafficker, Joy Imasogie (aged 40).
Nepal Lit Fest kicks off in Pokhara

The sixth edition of Nepal Literature Festival kicked off on Friday at the Nepal Tourism Board in Pardi, Pokhara.
The Department of Justice yesterday confirmed it cost the State 698,814 in deportation flights.

The 428 people deported in 2016 is an increase of 142 on the 286 deported in 2015.

In addition to the 428 deportation orders effected, the Department of Justice yesterday confirmed that 1,200 deportation orders were signed in 2016  a 56% rise on the 765 orders signed in 2015.

According to the department, the top six countries of origin of those deported in 2016 were Nigeria, China, Ghana, Brazil, Albania, and South Africa.

In addition, the numbers of foreigners blocked at Irish air and sea ports from entering the State last year rose by 20% from 3,450 to 4,127.

New figures provided by Tanaiste and Minister for Justice, Frances Fitzgerald, show that of the 4,127 people refused entry, 396 were subsequently admitted to pursue a protection application.

Commenting on the jump in numbers refused to land, director of the Migrant Rights Centre, Edel McGinley said: This is a very high number... MRCI has consistently highlighted the lack of transparency at our ports: we dont know why these people have been refused leave to land.

It is vital that human rights standards are upheld at our ports, but the lack of an appeals mechanism or complaints process means that there is little information and less accountability.

On the increase in deportations effected last year, a Department of Justice spokesman said: A decision to deport a person is never taken lightly.

Only persons who are illegally present in the State fall within the scope to be considered for deportation. Prior to the making of a decision to deport, all relevant legal rights of the person, including those applicable under international instruments such as the Refugee Convention and the European Convention on Human Rights are considered.

He stressed: No person is deported where deportation would result in return to a place where the life or freedom of the person would be threatened for reasons of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion, or there is a serious risk that the person would be subjected to the death penalty, torture or other inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.
Students from Kerrys Causeway Comprehensive secondary school were filming at a post office in Causeway at around 9pm on Wednesday for a Transition Year (TY) project.

However, a member of the public alerted gardai to what they thought was an armed robbery taking place. Two armed garda units responded  before standing down when it became apparent that the only shooting was of the cinematic variety.

The students had asked the owners of Hanleys post office for permission to film there as near to the shops closing time as possible to cause minimum disruption.

Unfortunately, nobody thought to notify the gardai, who promptly responded to the report by a vigilant member of the public  a woman passerby saw what she genuinely believed was a robbery taking place and called the gardai.

Up to 14 gardai arrived at the scene, including two armed units, to deal with what was a potentially dangerous incident.

Causeway Comprehensive vice principal, Anne Marie Hassett, said it was an oversight not to contact gardai: It was just an oversight and thats the bottom line and it was unfortunate but I suppose these things happen.

However, TY co-ordinator, Margaret OMahony, admits she cant quite see the funny side yet. Ive been in shock for the last few days because Im the one who didnt make the phonecall.

The Transition Year students had decided to make a movie, with the working title An Eye for an Eye, based on a student whose father is killed in a gangland-style shooting.

Most of the filming had been done inside [the post office] but they were shooting the scene of them breaking in and thats when we were spotted by the passerby, she explained.

It shows there are vigilant people and the reaction time by the gardai was really quick. They were on the scene within minutes. Your first concern is the kids and are they alright?. Sure theyre all laughing at it now but Im not there yet, Ms OMahony added.

Shop and post office owner, Emmet Hanly, said about seven balaclava-clad students were in the shop when gardai arrived. The students were shaken but it was all over within minutes.

Gardai says people should not be put off reporting such incidents  and have also appealed to events organisers and budding Spielbergs to stay in touch with gardai to prevent similar incidents happening again.

Inspector Liam Wallace of Listowel Garda Station said a member of the public who passed the shop last night, genuinely believed that a robbery was taking place. He said the response of the gardai was commensurate with the report we received.

You are talking about armed units from both Listowel and Tralee and uniformed gardai from both Ardfert and Listowel, Insp Wallace said on Radio Kerry.
This is the first time that embryos from two large, unrelated species have been created.

The DNA that governs organ formation was removed from a pig embryo and replaced with human DNA. The DNA developed in the pig embryo, creating human organs in the pig.

The scientists, in California, said that any real-life application is a long way off. Its hoped that, eventually, a patients own cells could be injected into the animal. This would ensure that the organ produced in the animal embryo wont be rejected by the patients immune system.

Stem cells were once seen as a possible solution to a global organ crisis. They can be grown in a laboratory to mimic any cell in the body but scientists had difficulty making the cells into three-dimensional organs.

The pig-human hybrid experiment has progressed beyond stem cells, however, as it shows that human tissue can grow within a pig. The study involved 1,500 pig embryos and stem cells from 40 people.

Lead investigator, Professor Juan Carlos Izpisua Belmonte, of the Salk Institutes Gene Expression Laboratory, said: We underestimated the effort involved.. This required a tour de force. This is an important first step. Our next challenge is to guide the human cells into forming a particular organ in pigs. The ultimate goal is to grow functional and transplantable tissue or organs, but we are far away from that.

Its hoped the human/pig hybrid can teach scientists about early human development and disease onset.

The experiment hasnt been without controversy. The US National Institutes of Health (NIH) stopped funding for experiments last year, while the potential for the hybrid creatures to accidentally end up in the wild was an ethical consideration.

While welcoming the advance, genetic professors have warned that all further research must be conducted with full transparency, so as to allow public scrutiny and debate.

However, the idea of creating human-animal hybrids is meeting ethical opposition, with some claiming scientists are creating monsters.

Director of Human Genetics Alert, Dr David King, said: I find these experiments disturbing....in mythology, human-animal chimaeras were frightening monsters for good reason. I dont recall these scientists asking for the publics opinion, before going ahead with such experiments.

The next stage of the process will involve allowing the organs to fully develop. Up to now, the pig embryos were only grown for three to four weeks, which is the all-important first trimester of a pig pregnancy.

This is long enough for us to try to understand how the human and pig cells mix together early on, without raising ethical concerns about mature chimaeric animals, said Professor Izpisua Belmonte. It is believed that the human cells could be engineered to prevent them contributing to the chimaera brain. This safeguard was not in place in the current study.

How the breakthrough came about

First, a rat-mouse hybrid was created by injecting rat cells into mouse embryos to see if the animals would continue to develop. When this was a success, the scientists edited out the section of mouse DNA which is vital for organ construction and replaced it with rat DNA.

As was hoped for, the rat DNA filled in the mouse DNA that had been removed, forming a rat heart, eyes and pancreas in the mouse. Next the team introduced human cells in a pig embryo.

This is far more complex, as a pig pregnancy is only a third the duration of human pregnancy. Timing was vital as each human cell had to be placed in the embryo at the same time as it would begin to develop in the animal pregnancy.

Its as if the human cells were entering a freeway going faster than the normal freeway. If you have different speeds, you will have accidents, said Dr Izpisua Belmonte. The embryo was implanted in a female pig and allowed to develop for three to four weeks so scientists could see that it was progressing.

As was hoped, only muscle developed in the embryo. There had been concerns that neurons could develop from the human cells and this could create some level of human consciousness in the animal brain.
John Moore, aged 57, of Cherrymount Crescent, Clontarf, Dublin 3, was ordered yesterday to stay away from all de Valera family members.

He was arrested at Glasnevin cemetery in the capital at 3.15pm on Wednesday. He was then brought to Mountjoy Garda station and detained before he was charged with causing criminal damage to Eamon de Valeras headstone and unlawful possession of knives in connection with the alleged incident.

He was held overnight and brought to appear before Judge Anthony Halpin at Dublin District Court on Thursday morning.

Garda John Beckett told the court the defendants reply to the criminal damage charge was Im guilty and his response to the second charge was I had a hammer.

Judge Halpin asked the man if he had a solicitor and he replied: I do not, no.

Gda Beckett requested that the accused would stay away from Glasnevin Cemetery, have no contact with the de Valera family or any of their properties or assets, sign on every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at Clontarf Garda station, and reside at his current address.

Gda Beckett asked for an adjournment to allow time for a file to be prepared for the DPP.

Judge Halpin imposed the terms sought by the garda and remanded Mr Moore on bail on his own bond of 200 to appear again on March 30.

Former taoiseach and Easter 1916 Rising commander Eamon de Valera died in 1975 and was buried in Glasnevin Cemetery.

The graveyard is the final resting place of a number of key figures in Irish history, including Michael Collins, ODonovan Rossa, Daniel OConnell, Countess Markievicz and Charles Stewart Parnell.
The Bus Eireann Trade Union Group heavily criticised management for the move last night, as Transport Minister Shane Ross faced fresh anger over his ongoing refusal to enter talks to resolve the dispute.

In a letter to workers, Bus Eireann acting CEO Ray Hernan said that in order to survive, the company, which is facing debts of 9m, will be imposing a series of pay and allowance cuts within weeks.

From February 20, Mr Hernan said workers will see their pay cut by 10%, Sunday premium pay slashed by 80%, shift premium payments scrapped, and further cuts to sick pay and overtime.

In addition, he said new policies such as part-time drivers will be considered by the firm, adding unions need to act responsibly.

The move has been seen as an attempt by the firm to force home the reality of the debt facing the bus company.

However, Bus Eireann Trade Union Group last night said the threatened pay cuts amount to open warfare , and that it was prepared for a battle.

The notion that a state-owned company would be instructed to engage in open warfare with its own staff is nothing short of appalling, it said.

Mr Ross continued to reject calls to become involved in the dispute yesterday, saying: Ive made it absolutely clear it is not my business and that the answer is I will not get involved in something like that.

However, Fianna Fail transport spokesperson Robert Troy and Sinn Fein counterpart Imelda Munster accused Mr Ross of hiding from the issue.

Mr Troy said his party will bring a motion to the Dail on Tuesday seeking ways to resolve the dispute.
The Garda Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau and the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation arrested four men on Tuesday, at Greenogue Business Park. Fifteen firearms and 1,300 rounds of ammunition were recovered.

The men were detained at Ronanstown and Clondalkin garda stations, under the Offence Against the State Act. Three of them were brought by armed gardai, in unmarked cars that had blacked-out windows, to the Criminal Courts of Justice. They appeared before Judge Anthony Halpin, at Dublin District Court, on Friday afternoon.

Declan Brady, 50, from The Park, Wolstan Abbey, Celbridge, Co. Kildare, Johnathon Harding, 44, of McNeill Court, Sallins, Co. Kildare, and James Walsh, 33, Neilstown Drive, Clondalkin, Dublin 22, made no application for bail. The three were remanded in custody to appear via video-link at Cloverhill District Court next Wednesday.

They each face the same three charges, under the Firearms Act, for unlawful possession of five revolvers, 20 rounds of ammunition, and a silencer, on January 24, at a unit in Greenogue Business Park, in Rathcoole, Co. Dublin.

The firearms were of Smith and Wesson, Zastava, and Rossi makes, and were five- and six-shot revolvers.

The men appeared individually and did not address the court. They have not yet indicated how they will plead and the judge was told that further serious charges could be brought.

Det Sergeant Emmet Casserly told Judge Halpin that Mr Brady replied no when he was charged at 1.14pm on Friday. The garda said there would be an objection to bail.

Defence solicitor, Anarine McAllister, told the court that there was no application for bail, at this stage, and she asked that her client get medical treatment in custody. Judge Halpin ordered that all necessary medical attention be afforded to Mr Brady, who was wearing a grey, hooded top, black bottoms, and black shoes.

Judge Halpin asked if directions from the DPP were available. Det Superintendent Tony Howard told him there were preliminary instructions and it was anticipated that there would be further serious charges.

The second defendant, James Walsh, was wearing a grey, hooded top and lighter grey bottoms, and black and white runners.

Det Sergeant Michael Cuffe said Mr Walsh was charged at 1.24pm, after which he made no comment to each charge. Det Sergeant Cuffe said he was aware that there would not be a bail application, at this stage, which was confirmed by defence barrister, David Staunton.

Mr Staunton asked if that case could also be adjourned until Wednesday. An application for legal aid was deferred to allow time for a statement of means to be prepared.

The third man before the court was Mr Harding and Det Sergeant Paul Curran said that the 44-year-old made no reply when he was charged, at 1.06pm on Friday.

His solicitor, Brian Coveney, told Judge Halpin that a similar order could also be made in relation to his client, who did not apply for bail yesterday. Free legal aid was granted to him.

A fourth man arrested as part of this investigation was released without charge on Wednesday, and a file will be prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions.
WHEN their first child was diagnosed with butterfly skin disease EB (epidermolysis bullosa), doctors told Mark Hyland and wife Geraldine there was a 25% chance any further children they had would also suffer from the condition.

But while Alison, now 13, has the severe form of the painful disease that causes skin layers and internal body linings to blister and wound at the slightest touch, she has a mild manifestation of it.

And, according to her dad, she just gets on with life.

We saw Alison was coping, so we took the decision to have another child.

Immediately after Erica, 7, was born, her Swords-based parents noticed a small piece of skin missing from one foot. Like Alison, Erica has the severe form of EB, but again the mild manifestation.

In the worst cases of EB, children have no collagen in their skin. Our girls have 50% collagen, so their skin does rebuild  its just a slower process, explains Mark.

Thats not to say lifes easy for his daughters. The condition mainly affects their extremities  feet, legs and elbows are bandaged. Erica wears pads on arms, legs and feet to protect her from everyday knocks.

Both girls have lost pretty much all their fingernails and toenails over the years  these wont come back. Their condition can be very painful, depending on wound size and where it is. Depending on size of a blister, you either burst it or leave it. Bursting it can result in fierce pain.

At school, Erica has a SNA  Alison did too in primary school  mainly to help them in the playground if they fell.

To look at Alison, you couldnt tell she has a skin condition unless you look closely at her fingers. She just gets on with things. If she gets a cut at school, she waits until shes home to sort it, rather than draw attention to it in the classroom. Erica has inherited that trait of just getting on with it too.

As the girls grow older, their skin will become more scarred. Their parents worry about how this will impact.

How will they react when others look at them? wonders Mark.

With no cure, its a matter of managing their condition, which both girls seem to do admirably.

Irish skin charity Debra Ireland hosts a Firewalk in Dublins Stillorgan Park Hotel today.

Individuals/groups will take a short walk over three meters of wood embers burning at 800 degrees. Participants pay 50 registration fee and raise 200 for Debra Ireland

Top tips

Be age appropriate; a seven-year-old wont be motivated by a sticker; a three-year-old will.

Dont think elaborate  rewards need only be small to work.

If youre trying to establish a routine, make the last step a reward: get into your pyjamas, brush your teeth and then story time.

Be consistent  if you say youre going to give them something, do so.
There is still dispute over how the fire was started. A tribunal of inquiry concluded that it was attributable to arson. Many of the injured and bereaved families dont accept that.

The fire was first spotted around 1.40am. Two calls were made from within the nightclub about what was then thought to be a small fire. Within minutes, the flames has escalated, catching most of the 840 patrons inside unawares.

The injured were ferried away to a number of different hospitals including the Mater, Jervis Street, and Dr Steevens. Forty-four people died in the fire. Within three weeks another four would die from their injuries.

In total, 214 people were left with injuries and 11 others with permanent injuries. Nearly all the casualties were young people between the ages of 18 and 30 from the general Artane and Coolock areas.

The Stardust fire was the worst tragedy of its kind to hit the country. It is very harrowing for the parents, many of whom live in my own parish, as it were, Charlie Haughey said as he visited the site in the aftermath of the fire.

Afterwards, it became clear that the fire safety measures in terms of design were completely inadequate.

A special day of mourning was announced for the Tuesday after the fire when many of the victims were buried after a special requiem Mass.

A tribunal of inquiry was set up under the chair of Ronan Keane, who went on to serve as chief justice. The inquiry sat between April and November 1981 and reported the following year.

Its report concluded that the fire had probably been started deliberately. The relatives didnt accept that conclusion.

The inquiry included over 1,600 statements taken by the gardai and 363 witnesses who gave direct evidence. But the conclusions shocked some of those who had been there on the night and the families of the bereaved.

The judge found that the tribunal has come to the conclusion that the most probable explanation of the fire is that it was caused deliberately. He concluded that it probably started in the west alcove after the seats were slashed and set alight.

There were a number of other conclusions that suggested the running of the premises was less than safe. The judge concludes that the practice of keeping emergency exits secured with padlocks until midnight on disco nights was a recklessly dangerous practice which regularly endangered the lives of over 1,000 people.

The judge also listed four reasons why a prompt and efficient evacuation of the building did not take place.

These were: The rapid spread of fire; a third of the patrons attempted to leave by the main entrance, which was not suitable and did not comply with the draft building regulations; the absence of evacuation procedures and fire drill for the staff; the locked and obstructed condition of other exits.

The report went on: Had the appropriate precautions been in existence to ensure efficient evacuation on the night of the fire, the injuries sustained would have been unquestionably less and the death toll would almost certainly have been reduced.

Over the following years, the relatives had to fight long and hard to get compensation for the loss of their loved ones. They were in the High Court for years.

A special Lord Mayor fund was set up to cover the most pressing and immediate costs faced by the dozens of families who had been thrust into a nightmare. Yet through it all the relatives sense of grievance continued, largely because it appeared that once the headlines died down, the body politic moved on, and the result of the inquiry did not answer their many questions.

In 1983, the Butterly family, which owned the nightclub, brought a claim through some of their companies against Dublin corporation for IR3m.

They won the case in the circuit court where the judge said he was satisfied that the fire was started deliberately. He awarded the company 581,000 in damages.

The leaseholder of the nightclub, Eamon Butterly, never accepted responsibility for what happened. Neither did he nor anybody acting on his behalf apologise to the bereaved or injured.

A compensation scheme was set up for the bereaved and survivors which awarded a total of 10m. The largest awards went to some of the survivors who had been injured.

Christine Keegan, who lost two daughters in the fire, was awarded just 7,500 for each of them. Christines other daughter, Antoinette, has been one of the leading campaigners for the families over the last 30 years.

In 1985, little progress had been made in civil actions against the owner of Stardust by the victims. In August that year, Christy Moore launched his Ordinary Man album, which included a song, They Never Came Home.

This was about the sense of injustice felt by the bereaved and injured. He got the title from hearing one mother describe how she had seen off her daughter and friends that night, not realising that was the last she would see of them.

Moores song was released on July 29. Four days later his record company, WEA Records, received a legal missive from the owner of the Stardust. It claimed that the song was such that it was in contempt of court in relation to the ongoing High Court actions.

The record company had to protect itself so it asked shops not to stock the record for the time being and radio stations not to play it. Then it went to the High Court for an order.

That order didnt go in Christys favour. The judge ruled that the song was in contempt of court, saying that it was a real and serious threat to a fair trial in the upcoming actions.

The line of the song that was found to offend the prospects of justice was one which referred to the condition of the exits, which had also been mentioned in the tribunal report three years earlier.

In 2006, 25 years after the disaster, RTE broadcast a docudrama which generated some controversy, particularly among the bereaved families. The same month that that was broadcast, RTEs Prime Time programme did an investigation which cast doubts on the verdict of the original tribunal.

In the programme, witnesses who had been outside on the night said they had seen fire coming out of the floor eight minutes before those inside had detected anything.

There was also new evidence produced about the buildings contents and layout and other details which did not appear to have featured in any great prominence in the original inquiry.

As a result of a campaign by the families, a new inquiry was established in 2008 and chaired by senior counsel John Gallagher. He stepped down when it emerged that he had represented parties at the original tribunal.

A photo taken on February 14, 1981, of the scene after the Stardust fire; top: Families of the victims at the Dail this week: Maurice Frazer, who lost his sister Thelma; Christine Keegan and her daughter Antoinette (Christine lost her daughters Martina, 16, and Mary,19); Eugene Kelly, who lost his brother Robert; Patricia Kennedy who lost her daughter Mary (Maire) Kennedy, who was 17; Bridget McDermott with daughter Louise McDermott (Bridget lost sons William, 22, George, 18, and a daughter, Marcella, 16).

His replacement, Paul Coffey, did a scoping inquiry and reported to the government in late 2008 that in his opinion the original finding of arson was wrong and that the public record should be corrected.

While the families were satisfied with that element, the Coffey report also stated that a new inquiry is necessary if it is the only way of placing on the public record a finding that is based on evidence.

But that statement appeared in a draft report and the final report stated that the cause of the fire could not be established. Coffey stated that due to the passage of time it would not be in the public interest for a new statutory inquiry to be established. The public record was corrected to reflect that there was no evidence that the fire was started deliberately.

Over the last 18 months a researcher for the families, Geraldine Foy, has pored over the transcripts of the Keane tribunal, which were released to her in 2008. She has also gone though all other reports and evidence.

She believes she has found testimony from witnesses inside and outside the Stardust which all point to the fire having been started not where the tribunal concluded it had but in the roof space.

Some of the witness statements were not included in the final tribunal report and Ms Foy believes that these were crucial and should have been in it.

In December last year, the relatives withdrew from engagement with the department of justice in frustration at the progress of things.

Matters have come to a head in the last few days.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny has said that if new evidence about the cause of the fire is uncovered there should be a commission of investigation. I dont see any difficulty in having the government meeting with the family, he said in the Dail on Wednesday.

I dont know the new evidence. I am quite willing to have a new investigation but that evidence has to be looked at.

If that evidence shows that there should be a commission of investigation then there should be one.

On Wednesday, the Government came to a compromise. Finian McGrath, the junior health minister, was supporting the relatives request for a full commissioner of investigation.

But the Government has agreed now to hold a full commission if there is new evidence as adjudicated by an independent person. The families will have a say in who is appointed, and they favour a retired judge with criminal court experience.

On Wednesday, Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald related what was at stake for the families.

Across the country, thousands of people, young and indeed not so young, went out on a Friday night, to dance, to celebrate, to enjoy themselves. They said goodbye to their loved ones; told them they would see them later; made plans for the following day, she said.

They did and said all the things that we do in such routine circumstances. Every parent worries when their child, whatever age, is heading out for the night. We tell them to mind themselves, to be careful. But we never think something like this could happen.

Many young people lost their lives. Many more were seriously injured and live with those scars to this day; both physical and psychological.

The expectation is that the new independent person will be appointed in the coming weeks. The families are of the opinion that the scoping inquiry which he or she will conduct can be completed in a matter of a few months.

After that, a decision will be made. It now looks like the families will have a final outcome to their 36-year quest to locate the truth of what happened on that tragic night.
Nepal to be declared as leprosy-free country by 2020

The government has set a goal to make Nepal completely leprosy-free country by 2020.
AXIS Capital Holdings Limited, through its subsidiaries, provides various specialty insurance and reinsurance products worldwide. It operates through two segments, Insurance and Reinsurance. The Insurance segment offers property insurance products for commercial buildings, residential premises, construction projects, and onshore energy installations; marine insurance products covering offshore energy, cargo, liability, recreational marine, fine art, specie, and hull war; and terrorism, aviation, credit and political risk, and liability insurance products. It also provides professional insurance products that cover directors' and officers' liability, errors and omissions liability, employment practices liability, fiduciary liability, crime, professional indemnity, cyber and privacy, medical malpractice, and other financial insurance related coverages for commercial enterprises, financial institutions, not-for-profit organizations, and other professional service providers. In addition, this segment offers accidental death, travel, and specialty health products for employer and affinity groups. The Reinsurance segment offers reinsurance products to insurance companies, including catastrophe reinsurance products; property reinsurance products covering property damage and related losses resulting from natural and man-made perils; professional lines; credit and surety; and motor liability products. This segment also provides agriculture reinsurance products; coverages for various types of construction risks and risks related to erection, testing, and commissioning of machinery and plants during the construction stage; marine and aviation reinsurance products; and personal accident, specialty health, accidental death, travel, life and disability reinsurance products. The company was founded in 2001 and is headquartered in Pembroke, Bermuda.
Nights of a cold town

Kathmandu exists in two phases: the chaos and disorder of the daytime and the unruffled calm of the night.
The following companies are subsidiares of Reliance Steel & Aluminum: AMI Metals Aero Services Ankara Havaclk Anonim Sirketi, AMI Metals Europe SPRL, AMI Metals Inc. , AMI Metals UK Limited, Acero Prime S. de R.L. de C.V., Admiral Metals Servicenter Company, Admiral Metals Servicenter Company Inc., Airport Metals, Alaska Steel Company, Alaska Steel Company, Aleaciones Especiales de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., All Metal Services (Malaysia) Sdn., All Metal Services India Private Limited, All Metal Services Limited, All Metal Services Ltd. (Xian), All Metals Holding, All Metals Processing & Logistics Inc., Allegheny Steel Distributors Inc., American Metals Corporation, Best Manufacturing Inc., CCC Steel Inc., Chapel Steel Canada Ltd., Chapel Steel Corp., Chatham Steel Corporation, Clayton Metals Inc., Continental Alloys & Services (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Continental Alloys & Services Limited, Continental Alloys & Services Pte. Ltd., Continental Alloys Middle East FZE, Crest Steel Corporation, Delta Steel Inc., Diamond Manufacturing Company, DuBose National Energy Fasteners & Machined Parts, DuBose National Energy Fasteners & Machined Parts Inc., DuBose National Energy Services, DuBose National Energy Services Inc., Durrett Sheppard Steel Co. Inc., Earle M. Jorgensen Company, FastMetals Inc., Feralloy Corporation, Ferguson Perforating Company, Ferguson Perforating Company, Fox Metals And Alloys, Fox Metals and Alloys Inc., Fry Steel, Fry Steel Company, GH Metal Solutions, GH Metal Solutions Inc., Haskins Steel, Infra-Metals Co., KMS FAB LLC, KMS Fab, KMS South, KMS South Inc., Liebovich Bros. Inc., McKey Perforating, Merfish United, Merfish United Inc., Metals USA, Metals USA Inc., Metalweb Limited, National Specialty Alloys, National Specialty Alloys Inc., Northern Illinois Steel Supply Co, Northern Illinois Steel Supply Co., Nu-Tech Precision Metals Inc., Nu-Tech Precision Metals Inc., PDM Steel Service Centers Inc., Pacific Metal Company, Phoenix Corporation, Precision Flamecutting and Steel Inc., Precision Strip Inc., Reliance Metalcenter Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd., Reliance Metals Canada Limited, Rotax Metals Inc, Rotax Metals Inc., Service Steel Aerospace Corp., Siskin Steel & Supply Company Inc., Sugar Steel Corporation, Sunbelt Steel Texas, Tubular Steel, Tubular Steel Inc., Valex Corp., Valex Korea Co. Ltd., Valex Semiconductor Materials (Zhejiang) Co. Ltd., Viking Materials Inc., and Yarde Metals Inc..

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Nuwakot grapples with fresh turmoil

Protests against the report of the Local Level Restructuring Commission (LLRC) have spread throughout Nuwakot with the residents of Jiling, Belkot, Ratamate and Dui Pipal VDCs joining the fray.
Oppenheimer Holdings Inc., through its subsidiaries, operates as a middle-market investment bank and full-service broker-dealer in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. The company offers brokerage services covering exchange-traded and over-the-counter corporate equity and debt securities, money market instruments, exchange-traded options and futures contracts, municipal bonds, mutual funds, exchange-traded funds, and unit investment trusts; financial and wealth planning services; and margin lending services. It also provides asset management services, including separately managed accounts, mutual fund managed accounts, discretionary portfolio management programs, non-discretionary investment advisory and consultation services, alternative investments, portfolio enhancement programs, and institutional taxable fixed income portfolio management strategies and solutions, as well as taxable and non-taxable fixed income portfolios and strategies. In addition, the company offers investment banking services, such as strategic advisory services and capital markets products; merger and acquisition, equities capital market, and debt capital market products and services; and institutional equity sales and trading, equity research, equity derivatives and index options, convertible bonds, and trading services. Further, it provides institutional fixed income sales and trading, fixed income research, public finance, and municipal trading services; repurchase agreements and securities lending services; and proprietary trading and investment activities. Additionally, the company offers underwritings, market-making, trust, and discount services. It serves high-net-worth individuals and families, corporate executives, public and private businesses, institutions and corporations, governments, financial sponsors, and domestic and international investors. Oppenheimer Holdings Inc. was founded in 1881 and is headquartered in New York, New York. Oppenheimer Holdings Inc. operates as a subsidiary of Phase Ii Financial Inc.
General Mills, Inc. manufactures and markets branded consumer foods worldwide. The company operates in five segments: North America Retail; Convenience Stores & Foodservice; Europe & Australia; Asia & Latin America; and Pet. It offers ready-to-eat cereals, refrigerated yogurt, soup, meal kits, refrigerated and frozen dough products, dessert and baking mixes, bakery flour, frozen pizza and pizza snacks, snack bars, fruit and salty snacks, ice cream, nutrition bars, wellness beverages, and savory and grain snacks, as well as various organic products, including frozen and shelf-stable vegetables. It also supplies branded and unbranded food products to the North American foodservice and commercial baking industries; and manufactures and markets pet food products, including dog and cat food. The company markets its products under the Annie's, Betty Crocker, Bisquick, Blue Buffalo, Blue Basics, Blue Freedom, Bugles, Cascadian Farm, Cheerios, Chex, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Cocoa Puffs, Cookie Crisp, EPIC, Fiber One, Food Should Taste Good, Fruit by the Foot, Fruit Gushers, Fruit Roll-Ups, Gardetto's, Go-Gurt, Gold Medal, Golden Grahams, Haagen-Dazs, Helpers, Jus-Rol, Kitano, Kix, Larabar, Latina, Liberte, Lucky Charms, Muir Glen, Nature Valley, Oatmeal Crisp, Old El Paso, Oui, Pillsbury, Progresso, Raisin Nut Bran, Total, Totino's, Trix, Wanchai Ferry, Wheaties, Wilderness, Yoki, and Yoplait trademarks. It sells its products directly, as well as through broker and distribution arrangements to grocery stores, mass merchandisers, membership stores, natural food chains, e-commerce retailers, commercial and noncommercial foodservice distributors and operators, restaurants, convenience stores, and pet specialty stores, as well as drug, dollar, and discount chains. The company operates 466 leased and 392 franchise ice cream parlors. General Mills, Inc. was founded in 1866 and is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Thomson Reuters Corporation provides business information services in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia Pacific. It operates in five segments: Legal Professionals, Corporates, Tax & Accounting Professionals, Reuters News, and Global Print. The Legal Professionals segment offers research and workflow products focusing on legal research and integrated legal workflow solutions that combine content, tools, and analytics to law firms and governments. The Corporates segment provides a suite of content-enabled technology solutions for legal, tax, regulatory, compliance, and IT professionals. The Tax & Accounting Professionals segment offers research and workflow products focusing on tax offerings and automating tax workflows to tax, accounting, and audit professionals in accounting firms. The Reuters News segment provides business, financial, and international news to media organizations, professional, and news consumers through news agency and industry events. The Global Print segment offers legal and tax information primarily in print format to legal and tax professionals, governments, law schools, and corporations. The company was formerly known as The Thomson Corporation and changed its name to Thomson Reuters Corporation in April 2008. The company was founded in 1851 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Thomson Reuters Corporation is a subsidiary of The Woodbridge Company Limited.
Attorneys defending Gage County in the ongoing Beatrice 6 case have filed two cases in district courts on Friday claiming that insurance companies should be responsible for a portion of the $28.1 million ruling, or at least the attorney fees related to the case.

Joel Nelson, of Keating OGara Nedved and Peter law firm in Lincoln, filed a case against Nebraska Intergovernmental Risk Management Association (NIRMA) in Lancaster County District Court and a case against EMC Insurance in Gage County District Court.

We still think theres a good-faith basis to ask judges to rule on these issues, Nelson said. NIRMA and EMC will have the chance to respond and raise arguments in their defense. There will be several months of discovery going both ways. Given the situation the county is in, the county had no choice but to ask judges to decide on these issues.

The Beatrice 6, as they're now commonly referred to, served a combined 77 years in prison for the murder of Beatrice resident Helen Wilson in 1985. DNA evidence later proved they didn't commit the murder.

The situation has been further complicated by doubts if insurance would cover some of the expense, or if Gage County is on the hook for the full amount.

James Dean, Kathleen Gonzalez, Debra Shelden, Ada JoAnn Taylor, Thomas Winslow and Joseph White served a combined 77 years in prison before DNA testing cleared them in 2008.

Wilson's killing has since been linked to Bruce Allen Smith, who grew up in Beatrice, returned to the town days before the slaying and then quickly went back to Oklahoma. He died in 1992.

All members of the Beatrice 6 were sentenced in early 1990.

Nelson is asking for indemnification, meaning that if the countys current appeal in the case to the 8th circuit court is not successful, that NIRMA and EMC would pay on that judgment.

The two things were asking are indemnification against the judgment and then the other part is the cost of defense, Nelson said. Anytime youre talking coverage its a two-pronged deal. Should insurance pay for the attorney fees, then second if there is a judgment, does insurance have to indemnify and pay that judgment.

While optimistic that insurance will be held responsible for at least some of payment, Nelson said its too soon to talk dollar amounts.

There are a wide range of potential outcomes and it just wouldnt be responsible to put any particular dollar amount or any estimate, given the wide variety of possible outcomes, he said.

According to the claim against EMC, Gage Countys insurance provider prior to 1997, Gage County had a commercial general liability policy effective Feb. 2, 1989 to Feb. 2, 1990.

Nelson said this time period is the only area being considered for coverage.

The issues in dispute with EMC is narrower and there are not as many moving parts as the dispute with NIRMA, Nelson said. EMC has reasons for doing what it did. It will have an opportunity to raise those arguments but we have a good-faith basis for believing there is coverage.

Additionally, the countys agreement with NIRMA was effective Aug. 1, 1997 and included retroactive coverage, including law enforcement liability coverage dating to Aug. 2, 1989.

Nelson said the carrier will likely argue the timeline of the case expands beyond the one-year policy.

August 1989 is kind of in the middle of the events of the Beatrice 6 prosecutions, Nelson said. As background, thats certainly going to be an area of dispute.

He added the attorneys believe public official liability coverage, as outlined in the policy, should also apply in the Beatrice 6 case.

The policy with EMC included provisions for personal injury, including false arrest and malicious prosecution.

Court filings argue that EMC is obligated to pay up to $1 million for each covered occurrence, with a $2 million aggregate limit.

After the Beatrice 6 filed a suit against Gage County, EMC was notified and denied the county a defense and responsibility.

Because EMC didnt contribute to the countys defense, Gage County spent $1.4 million to date defending the lawsuits.

Documents allege that EMC must reimburse the county for attorney fees and costs.
PM: Govt attorneys, police complete each other

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal said on Friday that the government has prioritised career improvement of government attorneys and police to ensure effective law and order in the country.
VeriFone Systems, Inc. provides payments and commerce solutions at the point of sale (POS) worldwide. It offers countertop solutions that accept payment options, including contactless, NFC, mobile wallets, and EMV; PIN pads that support credit and debit card, EBT, EMV, and other PIN-based transactions; and multilane consumer facing commerce devices. It also provides portable payment devices, including small, portable, and handheld devices that enable merchants to accept electronic payments wherever wireless connectivity is available; and mobile solutions that attach to and interface with iOS or Android based smartphones and tablets. In addition, it offers integrated electronic payment systems that combine electronic payment processing, fuel dispensing, and ECR functions, as well as secure payment systems for integration with petroleum pump controllers; unattended and self-service payment solutions designed to enable payment transactions in self-service, high-transaction volume, and public transportation environments; and network access solutions. Further, it provides installation, deployment, training, and application development and delivery solutions; project management, client education program, and consulting services; helpdesk support, equipment repair and maintenance, and software post-contract support services; and application libraries and development tools. Additionally, it offers omnichannel commerce, terminal management, and security solutions; and cloud-based managed, transaction payment, and other value added services. It sells its products directly; and through third party and channel partners. It serves financial institutions, payment processors, government organizations, and retailers; petroleum, transportation, and healthcare companies; and quick service restaurants. The company was formerly known as VeriFone Holdings, Inc. and changed its name to VeriFone Systems, Inc. in May 2010. VeriFone Systems, Inc. is headquartered in San Jose, California.
Bank of Montreal provides diversified financial services primarily in North America. The company's personal banking products and services include checking and savings accounts, credit cards, mortgages, and financial and investment advice services; and commercial banking products and services comprise business deposit accounts, commercial credit cards, business loans and commercial mortgages, cash management solutions, foreign exchange, specialized banking programs, treasury and payment solutions, and risk management products for small business and commercial banking customers. It also offers investment and wealth advisory services; digital investing services; financial services and solutions; and investment management, and trust and custody services. In addition, the company provides life insurance, accident and sickness insurance, and annuity products; creditor and travel insurance to bank customers; and reinsurance solutions. Further, it offers client's debt and equity capital-raising services, as well as loan origination and syndication, and treasury management; strategic advice on mergers and acquisitions, restructurings, and recapitalizations, as well as valuation and fairness opinions; and trade finance, risk mitigation, and other operating services. Additionally, the company provides research and access to markets for institutional, corporate, and retail clients; trading solutions that include debt, foreign exchange, interest rate, credit, equity, securitization and commodities; new product development and origination services, as well as risk management advice and services to hedge against fluctuations; and funding and liquidity management services to its clients. It operates through approximately 900 bank branches and 3,300 automated banking machines in Canada and the United States. Bank of Montreal was founded in 1817 and is headquartered in Montreal, Canada.
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Ghana Music Week Festival 2017 was successfully launched at the Alliance Francais in Accra, yesterday, January 27, 2017.

2017 GMW would be held from March 5 to 12. However, the key attraction for this years festival is a 3-day Celebration of Ghanaian music and dance plus comedy, fashion, merchandising vending, products sales and exhibitions at the Independence Square from March 10-12, 2017, dubbed The Festival. Entry is free to the general public for all three days as the organisers expect good attendance, in order to patronize the concerts and exhibitions.

Aside The Festival, there would be a cross communication of cultures through music at the International Expo & Honours on March 5, 2017 and a major seminar at the British Council on March 5, 2017.

MUSIGA President, Bice Osei Kuffour, in his keynote message, used the platform to reassure musicians that one of his key agendas of 2017 would be to put pressure on collecting society, GHAMRO to be more proactive in ensuring that the logging system is implemented and royalties paid appropriately to right owners.

On behalf of Tourism Minister-designate Hon. Catherine Abelema Afeku ; a Director at the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts Mr. Edwin Owusu-Mensah pledged the Ministrys full participation and support for GMW 2017.

I am aware of some of the major concerns that have engaged the attention of practitioners and stakeholders in this sector; including the need for the immediate passage of the Creative Industries Bill which will give the appropriate legislative framework for the operations of the sector. As you may be aware, the manifesto of the National Patriotic Party under the leadership of President Akufo-Addo has captured the aspirations of the creative arts and we intend to address those issues comprehensively, said the Minister-designate.

Josephine Thompson, Head of Cultural Affairs and Events at Alliance Francias, reiterated her outfits commitment to ensuring participation of some musicians from Francophone Africa at this years GMW.

There were performances by Ben Brako, Jupitar, Koo Ntakara, Knii Lante, Fatau Keita, Nenebi, the Tesaa and Aayalolo Cultural Troupes.

As part of activities of the night, www.ghanamusicweek.com , the Festivals official website was launched and tour given by GMW IT Head and webmaster/creator, George Fitzgerald Adjebeng.

Nenebi

Smart Nkansah, Obour And Freddie

Knii Lante

Obour And Media

Guests

Rev Dr Mary Ghansah

Exhibitor

Mandy

Edwin Owusu-mensah (motcca)

Jupitar
28.01.2017 LISTEN

Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), a leading pan-African multilateral development finance institution and project developer, has issued its maiden Sukuk (Islamic bond), the highest-rated ever Sukuk issuance from an African institution.

Following high levels of investor interest, the initial target of US$100 million was more than twice over-subscribed, resulting in the transaction being upsized to US$150 million and a final order book of approximately US$230 million.

In addition to being the first Sukuk transaction of 2017, it is also the first Sukuk to be issued by an African supranational entity.

The Sukuk is AFCs second foray into Islamic finance; the corporation accepted a US$50 million 15 year line of financing from the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) in 2015 to finance Islamic Finance-compliant projects located across the numerous African IDB member countries.

The privately placed 100% Murabaha Sukuk, which has been awarded an A3 senior unsecured rating by Moodys Investors Service, has a three year tenor and will mature on 24 January 2020. Emirates NBD Capital, MUFG and RMB acted as Joint Bookrunners and Joint Lead Managers with Emirates NBD Capital also acting as the Sole Global Coordinator.

Andrew Alli, President and CEO of AFC, commented on the announcement: The core values of Islamic finance, the need to invest ethically in assets that have a tangible positive social impact, made a Sukuk issuance a natural choice for us. We offer global investors the chance to be involved in high-impact infrastructure projects that not only promote social and economic development across Africa but also generate economic returns for our investors.

This Sukuk represents a milestone in our financing activities, a milestone that will enable us to further diversify our funding sources, to build new relationships with key investors in international markets and help us diversify our portfolio of projects to continue delivering real impact across the continent.

Ahmed Al Qassim, CEO of Emirates NBD Capital, added: Emirates NBD Capital is delighted to have supported the inaugural US$150 million 3 year Sukuk issuance. The successful completion of the transaction is a testament to AFCs standing with the international investor community and AFCs commitment to develop new sources of funding.

As the Sole Global Coordinator for the Sukuk, Emirates NBD Capital continues to lead the development of international Sukuk as a product and providing our clients with unique solutions to meet their funding requirements.

AFC has a diverse funding base, with a range of funding from sources across different markets. Last year the corporation issued its debut Swiss Franc denominated long three-year bond, raising

CHF 100 million, and accepted a US$150 million 15 year loan facility from KfW Development Bank. In 2015 AFCs inaugural 144A/Reg S, US$750 million 5-year international bond was more than six times oversubscribed at over US$4.7 billion, attracting institutional investors from across Asia, Europe, Middle East and the United States
Portal offering official govt data launched

Bikas Udhyami, a social innovation hub, has launched Nepal in Dataa portal that offers official statistics of the government on different sectors.
The President of the Republic of Namibia has paid glowing tribute to the outgoing High Commissioner of Ghana to Namibia, Abdul-Rahman Harruna Attah whose time has ended.

Dr. Hage Gottfried Geingob noted with satisfaction the ever-growing closeness of the two countries and hoped for even stronger ties in the future and commended the High Commissioner for being a catalyst in that growth.

He said this when the outgoing Ambassador Attah went to bid farewell to the President of the Republic of Namibia and the First Lady Monica Geingos.

At separate meetings at the State House, Ambassador Attah informed them about the end of his tenure and his recall to base.

The President congratulated Ghana for the peaceful transition after a successful election and said Ghana continues to be an example for Africa  a symbol of hope and pride.

He recalled the leadership of Ghanas first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah and how it inspired the spirit of decolonization all over Africa.

Ghana, he said, was the first to gain independence and Namibia the last.

The High Commissioner briefed him on a number of initiatives taken by the High Commission to strengthen and enhance the two countries bilateral cooperation in education, air travel, fisheries, environment, SME development and many other areas within the context of the Ghana-Namibia Permanent Joint Commission for Cooperation signed this past November.

He thanked the President and First Lady for their warmth towards him during his tenure often going beyond the confines of formal diplomatic etiquette. He presented a Ghanaian smock to the President as a farewell gift.

The First Lady also remarked on the peaceful transition and said it was a proud moment for Africa.

She wished the departing envoy well and said he should regard Namibia as his home where he will always be welcome. He presented copies of his daughters novels to her as his parting souvenirs.

Story by Ghana | Myjoyonline.com | Abubakar Ibrahim
UK-Ghana Chamber of Commerce (UKGCC) CEO, Tony Burkson, toured the Strategic Power Solutions (SPS) Factory on Wednesday morning.

Ofori Boateng, the CEO of SPS, took Mr. Burkson through the daily processes of the factory and introduced him to the key players of his operations. Mr. Burkson saw the different steps in the process by which solar panels are manufactured in Ghana and learned about the various benets of renewable energy.

SPS became a member of the UKGCC because they are working to build partnerships with other companies in the renewable energy sector, both Ghanaian and British, and strongly believe that joining the chamber would give them these opportunities.

The new Akufo-Addo government has placed renewable energy high on their list. Boakye Agyarko, the energy minister, talked about the importance of using renewable energy during his recent vetting, he stressed the importance of using these resources to reduce the cost of electricity to government institutions such as ministries, schools, hospitals, etc. The work that SPS is doing will go along way to support the governments drive to increase renewable energy in Ghana.

Mr Burkson shared his thoughts on his visit, I am very impressed with what SPS is doing locally and I'm really keen to see how Ghanaian and UK companies can partner to foster growth within the renewable energy sector. I believe the UKGCC will play a big role in forming these partnerships.

The Chamber would like to welcome Strategic Power Solutions as a member and thank them for this very informative and inspiring experience.

About The UKGCC

The UKGCC is a unique resource and a robust organisation made up of local experts and professionals that will be the voice for British Businesses looking to access and engage with the Ghanaian market, whilst providing assistance to Ghanaian companies investing in the UK.

The UKGCC provides exceptional support for its members through the sharing of knowledge and ideas whilst hosting various activities designed to build stronger networks that will connect business and create further opportunities.


The flagbearer of the Progressive Peoples Party (PPP), Dr Papa Kwesi Nduom has lauded government to reviving the National Identification system.

Government on Thursday announced steps for the implementation of a comprehensive national identification project, in fulfilment of a long-held New Patriotic Party (NPP) campaign pledge to build a database of Ghanaians and other nationals resident in Ghana.

At a broad consultative meeting chaired by the Vice President, Alhaji Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, on Wednesday, January 25, 2017, all the major stakeholders, including the Births and Deaths Registry (BDR), National Identification Authority (NIA), Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Ghana Revenue Authority and National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), underscored the need to have a single national database to aid policy planning and implementation.

The aim is to establish an integrated Data Warehouse of databases from key public institutions, using the National Identification System as the unique identifier for data items, and automating the processes involved in accessing public services at both national and local government offices.

The national identification project is also expected to be completed within the first year of the NPP administration, in fulfilment of a manifesto pledge to complete the registration of all residents in Ghana under the National Identification Scheme, thereby establishing an integrated data warehouse of databases from key public institutions, using the National Identification System as the unique identifier for data items, and automating the processes involved in accessing public services at both national and local government offices.

The NPP government is convinced the National ID scheme will help formalise the economy through the establishment of a national database, using the National Identification System as the primary identifier, with linkages to the databases of institutions such as the Police, National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), Passport Office, Immigration, courts, Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA).

Commending government for the initiative, Dr. Nduom said the process must be seen as a matter of national interest without partisan colouration.

In a Facebook post, He posted on his Facebook Wall on Thursday, January 27: The PPP believes in this project. I have advocated for it for more than two decades. Others have also argued for it. We must all continue to encourage those charged with the responsibility to bring the project to a successful end to get it done with a high sense of urgency.

The PPPs presidential candidate for the 2006 elections was of the view that Ghana will be a better, more disciplined country when the project is completed successfully.

Story by Ghana/Myjoyonline.com
The Minister Nominee for Agriculture, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto has stated that the smuggling of fertilizer outside of the country are part of the reasons for the decline in growth of the agricultural sector.

Speaking at the appointment committee of Parliament, Dr. Afriyie Akoto maintained that the development has resulted in farmers receiving inadequate amounts of fertilizer to increase their yield.

The Minister Nominee was optimistic of increased yields should farmers be given adequate amount of fertilizers and inputs at an affordable price production will be greatly increased.

Regarding the supply of fertiliser, the actual amount of contributions that was going to farmers was far less than what was claimed by the regime. As a matter of fact, there were reports of mass smuggling of chemicals across West Africa and former President Mahama actually confirmed this incident during one of his visits, he asserted.

The issue, in the Agric Economists view has extended to other countries in the sub-region; Cameroon and Niger.

This he argues has deprived Ghanaian farmers of their due in terms of the fertiliser subsidy program.

In effect, Dr. Akoto has blamed the low producer price for farmers on the perpetration of the illegal activity.

Citi Business News earlier reported that the government had defaulted on payments for suppliers of subsidized fertilizers since 2012.

This led to the suspension of fertilizer supplies to fruit and vegetable farmers across the country, as suppliers demanded their outstanding arrears.

Some farmers went out of business following complaints about the high cost of inputs and lack of support from the government.

According to the then Minister of Food and Agriculture, Clement Kofi Humado, government was working on paying the arrears by the end of the week in which the matter arouse.

The problem we are having currently where fertilizers are not reaching farmers right now is because we owe arrears to suppliers from 2012, we haven't paid, and the companies are no more ready to participate in the subsidy program.

It is an issue I'm taking up with the then Minister of Finance and the President, he said.

According to Mr. Humado, government will consider all its options, including suspending the fertilizer subsidy program.



By: Anita Arthur/citibusinessnews.com/Ghana
Accra- 26th January, 2017  The Laweh Open University College on Thursday inaugurated its Governing Council in Accra. The council is the highest decision making body in the University and is expected to oversee the effective administration of the university as a world class facility.

The new Governing Council is also expected to work with national and international partners to position the university to achieve its vision of being a world class open higher education provider founded on the principle of useful and applied learning.

The Eleven (11) member Governing Council is chaired by Dr. Kingsley Fletcher (HRM Nene Drolor Bosso Adamtey I). The members are Professor Vincent Ado Tenebe- Former Vice-Chancellor, National Open University of Nigeria, Professor J. S. Y. Kuma  Vice Chancellor of University of Mines and Technology Tarkwa, Professor Con. Eng, Tolly S.A Mbwette, Former Vice Chancellor, Open University Tanzania, Professor Joshua Alabi- Former Vice-Chancellor UPSA , Professor Goski Alabi- Dean of centre for International Education and Collaboration UPSA.

Others are Ms. Mavis Ekua E. Kwainoe- Legal Practitioner and Lecturer, UPSA, Professor Jemison Kurasha- Dean of Business school, Open University of Zimbabwe, Dr. Joshua Mallet- Director of Centre for Distance Learning and Open Schooling (CENDLOS), and Professor Jonathan Mbah- Director of Research and Planning- AUU

The Pro Vice Chancellor, Dr. Josiah Cobbah said the universitys philosophy is to provide an opportunity for education without barriers to produce strategic middle to strategic level leaders to be responsible for their own learning and personal transformation.

We take pride in our ability to work with students with diverse background to harness their potential by identifying, nurturing and turning talents into abilities to contribute their quota to world affairs, he stated.

Dr. Cobbah expressed confidence in the Governing Council, saying they are all achievers in their various fields of endeavour and urged them to bring their very rich experiences to bear in the governance of the university.

The Chairman of the Governing Council, HRM Nene Drolor Bosso Adamtey I on behalf of the members thanked the University for the confidence reposed in them. He assured the university they will offer selfless service in line with the strategic focus of the university to bring more value to all stakeholders.

The Laweh Open University College is located at Addogon, Nungua and plans to establish regional study centres across the sub-region

Also present at the ceremony were Noble Dr. King Odaifio Welentsi III, paramount chief of Nungua Traditional Area, Obrimpong Numa Nii Alabi Dzenge, Nungua Mankralo, and Proffesor Ebenezer Oduro Owusu , vice chancellor of the University of Ghana among others.
28.01.2017 LISTEN

United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has confirmed it participation in this years African Women Intercultural Dialogue organised by All Africa Media Network to mark the 2017 International Women's Day Celebration in Africa on March 8 at the Accra International Conference Centre.

The International Women's Day Celebration earmarked for 8th of March was inaugurated by the United Nations (UN) as a day to celebrate and create political and social awareness on the struggles and accomplishments of women globally.

The African Women Intercultural Dialogue is an event in which Iconic Africans are drawn from different African society and beyond to explore cultural issues that hinders development of the African woman and the girl-child.

The Intercultural dialogue shall investigate negative cultural practices that condones violence against women and deliberate with leaders of the social institutions be it religious, cultural or social.

However, the expectation is that at the end of the event the organisers will come out with a blueprint that will minimize practices such as child marriages, female genital mutilation, denial of women the right to inheritance and ownership of lands, and also preserve positive cultural norms from the ever evolving cross -cultural clashes between inter-cultures and as well as propagate the relevance of cross cultural intelligence and positive cultural exchange.

The event is also expected to enrich the audience, concerned citizens and leaders of social institutions like labour unions, religious organisations, civic society leaders, heads of market women associations, activists, African first ladies, women in politics and country representatives of international organisations that works in the field of gender, culture and child rights, cultural leaders from different regions in Africa and beyond.

In his official response to the event organisers, Mr. Tirso Dos Santos head of Mission UNESCO Ghana emphasized on the importance of the dialogue stating that "UNESCO considers gender issues an important dimension in its operations and will participate in the dialogue."

The program coordinator of All Africa Media Network Mr. C. Iwuoha also disclosed that they are open for support, sponsorship and collaboration from corporate organisations, civil societies and interested individuals to ensure a successful intercultural dialogue.

Soren Kierkegaard International Academic Society Africa (SKIASA), Leadership Development Foundation for Civic Literacy (LDFCL) and Society for Social Right and Civic Literacy (SOSORCIL) have also declared their intention to participate and unalloyed support to the initiative.
28.01.2017 LISTEN

As it is now, to push for atheism in Africa is unattractive and a misplaced priority. What we need is shattering the glassy superstitions ensured and insured by religion and its implicit inhibitory mental illusion of holding God accountable in prayer and fasting if the latter even exist at all, to pave the way for holding leadership accountable for development. And erecting the house of scientific kits at its place.

That is doable. Actually, it is what all the supposed atheists contribute to even in Europe and America. The infamous Richard Dawkins and other vociferous atheists are not necessary promoting atheisms explicitly as they are defending the established scientific kits for development. In Europe and America, the intellectual, political and moral revolutions have culminated into the establishment of scientific kits with irreparable detrimental consequences for religion.

Consequently, the religious organizations, fully aware of how science is constantly wrestling the public mind from them are staging a fight indirectly through politics. We all know the relationship between religion and politics is stronger than that of science and politics despite the role of science in national development. They are both controlling tools. Therefore, to me, Richard Dawkins and co are just defending the established scientific kits against the charging generally dethroned religions staging a comeback via politics.

Let us turn to Africa. Here, we have not even had the intellectual and moral revolution. We seem to have had a political revolution. But, because we never had the necessary intellectual and moral revolution the socioeconomic benefits of political revolution that accompanies it are copiously missing. The necessary social and economic work needed to make it achievable, which is the scientific kits, is even yet to start decisively in Africa with any pragmatic political support. And you think, we should muddy the situation by promoting and defending atheism simply because you misunderstood the American and European situation to mean they are explicitly promoting atheism.

No, they are not promoting atheism. They are defending the established scientific kits against the dethroned religions trying to make a comeback via the political backdoor. Either than that, promoting atheism in Africa where the kit is yet to be imbibed consciously into the public mind seems to me like individualistic ideology without any linkage to whether we develop or not.

What is the point of being an atheist in an underdeveloped continent assuming that theism is explicitly wrong? So that one can call himself an intellectual just as the religious sycophants see themselves as morally superior, yet even as they outnumber the nonreligious in every sector in society, corruption remains the key to every door in Africa, oxygenating the underdevelopment. Sure, you have the right to be atheist just as everyone else has it to be anything. But in all that, let us link whatever we have the right to be to our national development and not just as a personal ideological aggrandizement.

To me, that is what I see Richard Dawkins and co doing. They are defending science and its reasoning kits in most of the books they have been writing than atheism even if you misleadingly think and conclude the book is about atheism because the author is an atheist. And you can only defend what is already established. I am not sure you can boldly say the scientific kit is already established in the Africa and does influence our collective thinking compared to religion. So let us project, promote and defend atheism.

I wish you could spot how the clash between science and religion differs continentally. In Africa, the religious people are on the defensive because they know their superstition is established and fossilized in the public mind. Whilst in America and Europe they are on the offensive to make a comeback. If there is anything atheism does for science, then, it only acts as a burglarproof. Therefore, projecting and defending atheism now in Africa is like buying a burglarproof for a house you have not built yet. If you see others using their burglarproof, it is because they had their house built. So let us work assiduously to build that admirable and needed house in and for Africa.

Whatsapp: 0248412308

FB: Stanley Seshie
28.01.2017 LISTEN

It is amazing how NDC Government officials and communicators get so jittery when Alfred Agbesi WOYOME issue is raised by the opposition party, NPP. Some still have the audacity to call WOYOME a criminal. We claim we are so educated yet so nignorant to the extent that, our only source of information is what is spewed in the media by some ignoramus or deliberate criminals.

Now to the point. I agree with all the rulings of the High Court, The Court of Appeal on the criminal cases. I also agree on one aspect of he Supreme Court ruling which stated that the entire transaction was UNCONSTITUTIONAL but disagree on the other which asked WOYOME to pay back the money.

IWhy do I disagree with the Supreme Court on the other?

Document stated below refered.

In the Superior Court of Judicature in the Court of Appeal, Accra-Accra.

CORAM:

OFOE, J.A

KORBIEH J. A

MENSAH, J. A

SUIT NO. H2/17/15

10th March, 2016

THE REPUBLIC ...APPELLANT VRS. ALFRED AGBESI WOYOME.....RESPONDENT

JUDGEMENT

1.This judgement cleared and discharged Alfred AGBESI WOYOME of causing financial loss, ( Sec. 179. Criminal offences Act) defrauding by false pretence, criminal offence through wilful, malicious, or fraudulent action or ommission. (Sec. 132, 133 (1) Criminal Offences Act ). Refer to pages 5-7 of the Judgement.

2. On page 38 of the judgement (after examining Osafo Marfo, a Finance Minister as at the time the contract was entered into, among others, Justice OFOE stated, "Having so found I am of the view that fraud or fraudulent misrepresentation cannot be sustained on this allegation."

3. The contentious aspect of whether respondent (WOYOME) had any contract with Government of Ghana to conduct any financial engineering on its behalf of which he should make claims on government?

This is what Justice OFOE again concluded. " on reading of the records of proceedings and the submissions of both parties to this criminal trial, the conclusion that one comes to is that the respondent's (WOYOME) claim is based on the tendering process which Waterville/M Powapak (WOYOME's company) won but was terminated in August 2005. Page 41 and on page 45 he ruled after going through the evidences that, "I am comfortable with a finding that the prosecution failed to establish the guilt of the accused beyond reasonable doubt on this charge of defrauding by false pretences."

WAS BETTY MOULD FINANCIALLY INFLUENCED BY WOYOME AS THE MEDIA AND SOME NPP MEMBERS ARE PORTRAYING?

On page 48 of the judgment, Justice OFOE made a profound statement.

"The Honourable woman was talking law here. How could anybody say she was influenced by the respondent, a lay person talking this law? There wasn't therefore any evidence that their absence from the court disabled the court from coming to its conclusion"

DOES WOYOME DESERVE THE GHC 51 MILLION?

The lead Justice OFOE agreed in the affirmative, And " from the foregoing opinion I will dismiss the appeal as without merit." Page 50 refered.

Justice KORBIEH on page 58 of the Judgement posited, "it is my considered opinion that the respondent has both a factual and a legal basis for making his claim and it was therefore made in good faith." He also dismissed the case

I love Justice MENSAH's comment on pages 78-79. "It is very difficult to understand how the Respondent can be indicted for an offence which was blessed by the panoply of government machinery. Or is it a case of bolting the stable after the horses have escaped?" Because as the time the AG was trying to prosecute WOYOME, "the judgment of the Commercial Court was subsisting, just as it is now."

This was a result of NDC Government buckling under NPP's allegation of corruption and criminality. The prosecution was to save a political face which attempted to defy the strength of the law. The law won. WOYOME is not a criminal.

BUT THE SUPREME COURT SAYS HE CHOP THE MONEY?

The SUPREME COURT did not rule on criminality of the case. Indeed, the court ruled that the entire transaction was UNCONSTITUTIONAL.

The SUPREME COURT focused on whether the Transaction followed constitutional provision of Article 181 which says:

LOANS

18l. (I) Parliament may, by a resolution supported by the votes of a majority of all the members of Parliament, authorise the Government to enter into an agreement for the granting of a loan out of any public fund or public account. (b) the payment into the Consolidated Fund or other public . . fund of moneys derived from loans raised on institutions shall be laid before Parliament and shall not come mto operation unless

(2) An agreement entered into under cluuse (I) oft.1us article outside Ghana. it is approved by a resolution of Parliament.

(3) No loan shall be raised by the Governmeut on behalf of Itself or any other public institution or authority otherwise than by or under the authority of an Act of Parliament.

So the question is If parliamentary approval was not obtained by the NPP Government [for those transactions in respect of which arbitral awards have been issued against Ghana], then those who failed to do so broke the law. In any well-governed country, it is these governments officials, not the contractors, who will bear the cost of breaking the law. This is straightforward, simple and logical. But in Ghana, the politicians who offended the law shouts louder with accussation of corruption. This perpetuates a system of perverse incentives. This dangerous ruling is very unfair to the business community

Was it that the NDC GOVERNMENT was been inept in communicating the facts to the public?
Washington (AFP) - US President Donald Trump signed a sweeping new executive order to suspend refugee arrivals and impose tough new controls on travelers from seven Muslim countries.

Making good on one of his most controversial campaign promises, and to the horror of human rights groups, Trump said he was making America safe from "radical Islamic terrorists."

"This is big stuff," he declared at the Pentagon, after signing an order entitled: "Protection of the nation from foreign terrorist entry into the United States."

Trump's decree suspends the entire US refugee resettlement program for at least 120 days while tough new vetting rules are established.

These new protocols will "ensure that those approved for refugee admission do not pose a threat to the security and welfare of the United States."

In addition, it specifically bars Syrian refugees from the United States indefinitely, or until the president himself decides that they no longer pose a threat.

A Lebanese Christian teenager dressed as Santa Claus, holds a Syrian refugee during a gift distribution in a slum in the town of Dbayeh, north of Beirut

Meanwhile, no visas will be issued for 90 days to migrants or visitors from seven mainly-Muslim countries: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

Extreme vetting

During the suspensions of the refugee and visa programs, new rules will be devised for what Trump as called the "extreme vetting" of applicants' backgrounds.

Some exceptions will be made for members of "religious minorities," which -- in the countries targeted by the decree -- would imply favorable treatment for Christians.

Civil liberties groups and many counterterror experts condemned the measures, declaring it inhumane to lump the victims of conflict in with the extremists who threaten them.

Malala Yousafzai, Pakistani activist and Nobel peace laureate, said she was "heartbroken" by US President Donald Trump's executive order to suspend refugee arrivals

"'Extreme vetting' is just a euphemism for discriminating against Muslims," said Anthony Romero, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union.

Romero argued that, by choosing countries with Muslim majorities for tougher treatment, Trump's order breaches the US Constitution's ban on religious discrimination.

Ahmed Rehab, director of the Chicago chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, said his group would mount legal challenges to fight the order "tooth and nail."

US President Donald Trump met Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May (L) and hailed the "most special relationship" between the twin Atlantic powers

"It is targeting people based on their faith and national origin, and not on their character or their criminality," he told AFP.

Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani activist and Nobel peace laureate who was shot in the head by the Taliban in 2012, said she was "heartbroken."

She urged Trump not to abandon the world's "most defenseless children and families."

But the measure will be popular with Trump's nationalist base, and stops short of a threat made during last year's campaign to halt all Muslim travel to the United States.

Trump's supporters defend the measures as necessary to prevent supporters of Al-Qaeda or the Islamic State group from infiltrating the US homeland disguised as refugees.

And the State Department, which with the Department of Homeland Security will have to implement the measures, said it was ready to put them into immediate effect.

US President Donald Trump signs an executive order on rebuilding the armed forces at the Pentagon next to Vice President Mike Pence (L) and Defense Secretary James Mattis

"We will announce any changes affecting travelers to the United States as soon as that information is available," spokesman Mark Toner said.

"We take seriously our responsibility to safeguard the American public while remaining committed to assisting the world's most vulnerable people."

'Wonderful thing'

Trump signed the order -- which will cut the number of refugees the United States plans to resettle this fiscal year from 110,000 to 50,000 -- in a ceremony at the Pentagon.

Moments earlier, he had signed an order to "rebuild" the US military and had watched Vice President Mike Pence swear in respected former Marine general James Mattis as his new secretary of defense.

Trump showered Mattis with praise and had earlier admitted he would allow the general's opposition to the use of torture to override his own enthusiasm for harsh measures.

In what was a busy day from Trump, one week after his inauguration, he also met with Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May, the first foreign leader to visit his White House.

He hailed the "most special relationship" between the twin Atlantic powers and praised Britain's decision to leave the European Union as a "wonderful thing."

"When it irons out, you're going to have your own identity, and you are going to have the people that you want in your country," Trump said, in a nod to his own immigration stance.

"You're going to be able to make free trade deals without having somebody watching you and what you are doing."

May conveyed an invitation from Queen Elizabeth II for Trump to come to Britain for a state visit this year, and thanked him for his "100 percent" support of NATO.

Over the weekend, Trump is due to make calls to Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel, Russia's President Vladimir Putin, France's President Francois Hollande and Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.

He is keen to develop friendly ties with Moscow, but played down reports that he might quickly end US economic sanctions imposed on Russia for its intervention in Ukraine.
The Paramount Chief of Alavanyo, Togbe Tsedze Atakura, has suggested bias on the part of police against his people in the handling of tensions between the people of the Alavanyo and Nkonya ethnic groups.

This follows the latest killing in the area, which Togbe Atakura stressed did not signify a renewal of the clashes between the two ethnic groups, which have been involved in a protracted conflict for about a century.

Speaking on Eyewitness News, Togbe Atakura gave some background to the recent murder of a 35-year-old farmer, who went missing on January 23 and was found a day later dead with gunshot wounds.

According to him, the man had entered his farm when assailants laid ambush and opened fire on him killing him.

The chief further said his people suspect that he may have been murdered by some citizens from Nkonya as he explained that his suspicions stemmed from threats from some Nkonya men had made on radio prior to the killing.

These boys from Nkonya have gone on air to say that the land belongs to them and they are going to guard the land 24/7, and that any Alavanyo citizen who goes there, does so at his own risk. If you issue out a threat and what you threatened to do has resulted in this, I don't think you need to go looking for someone else other than the person who may have carried out the threat, Togbe Atakura stated.

Following the murder, the Alavanyo chief noted that, reports had been made to police in Kpando but to no avail, as he explained his claims of bias against the police, which he said was emboldening people with ill intent.

We have brought this to the notice of the security agencies but no one has done anything. I have even suggested that if this threat was issued by an Alavanyo person, he would have been arrested.

There was this suggestion that when an Alavanyo person is killed, the security agencies will suggest that person was killed by another Alavanyo person. But when a Nkonya person is killed, they suggest it is an Alavanyo person who has killed that Nkonya person. So in effect, an Nkonya person does no wrong and that has emboldened them.

Nkonya, Alavanyo residents must cooperate with police

Meanwhile, the Ankobiahene of Nkonya, Nana Ampem Darko, also shared his thoughts on the matter on Eyewitness News, saying he was saddened by the killings and called on people of Nkonya and Alavanyo to aid the security agencies to take action.

It is high time we begin to bring out those rough human beings amongst us who do not want peace. I am pleading with the security agencies to as much as possible, try and find the perpetrator and I am also pleading with the people of Nkonya and Alavanyo to try as much as possible to help the security agencies by speaking the truth about what is happening.



By: Delali Adogla-Bessa/citifmonline.com/Ghana
Rain, snow affect West, central Nepal

A sudden change in local weather system brought winter rains and snowfall in many places in western and central regions of the country on Friday.
The Energy Minister says he would consider legal action against Bawku Central MP Mahama Ayariga for bribery allegation leveled against him.

Boakye Agyarko denied offering money to members of Parliaments Appointments Committee to approve his nomination.

In an exclusive interview with Joy News Elton Brobbey Friday, the former Vice President of the Bank of New York said it is unthinkable that he would use money to cajole anybody to do something for him.

I have not offered any money or gone to anybody to offer to members of Parliament to make a decision in my favor, he said.

More soon...

Story by Ghana | Myjoyonline.com | Austin Brako-Powers | [email protected]
Washington (AFP) - US President Donald Trump signed a sweeping new executive order Friday to suspend refugee arrivals and impose tough controls on travelers from seven Muslim countries.

Making good on one of his most controversial campaign promises, and to the horror of human rights groups, Trump said he was making America safe from "radical Islamic terrorists."

"This is big stuff," he declared at the Pentagon, after signing an order entitled: "Protection of the nation from foreign terrorist entry into the United States."

Trump's decree suspends the entire US refugee resettlement program for at least 120 days while tough new vetting rules are established.

These new protocols will "ensure that those approved for refugee admission do not pose a threat to the security and welfare of the United States."

In addition, it specifically bars Syrian refugees from the United States indefinitely, or until the president himself decides that they no longer pose a threat.

A Lebanese Christian teenager dressed as Santa Claus, holds a Syrian refugee during a gift distribution in a slum in the town of Dbayeh, north of Beirut

Meanwhile, no visas will be issued for 90 days to migrants or visitors from seven mainly-Muslim countries: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

Extreme vetting

During the suspensions of the refugee and visa programs, new rules will be devised for what Trump has called "extreme vetting" of applicants' backgrounds.

Some exceptions will be made for members of "religious minorities," which -- in the countries targeted by the decree -- would imply favorable treatment for Christians.

Malala Yousafzai, Pakistani activist and Nobel peace laureate, said she was "heartbroken" by US President Donald Trump's executive order to suspend refugee arrivals

Civil liberties groups and many counterterrorism experts condemned the measures, declaring it inhumane to lump the victims of conflict in with the extremists who threaten them.

"'Extreme vetting' is just a euphemism for discriminating against Muslims," said Anthony Romero, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union.

By choosing countries with Muslim majorities for tougher treatment, Romero argued, Trump's order breaches the US Constitution's ban on religious discrimination.

Ahmed Rehab, director of the Chicago chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, said his group would mount legal challenges to fight the order "tooth and nail."

"It is targeting people based on their faith and national origin, and not on their character or their criminality," he told AFP.

Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani activist and Nobel peace laureate who was shot in the head by the Taliban in 2012, said she was "heartbroken" and urged Trump not to abandon the world's "most defenseless children and families."

US President Donald Trump met Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May (L) and hailed the "most special relationship" between the twin Atlantic powers

Speaking at a tourism convention in Tehran Saturday, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani did not comment directly on the visa ban but said Iran had "opened its doors" to foreign tourists since the signing of a nuclear agreement with world powers in 2015.

He also said now was "not the time to build walls between nations," a remark that followed Trump's order to construct a wall along the US-Mexico border.

The most vulnerable

The tough travel controls will be popular with Trump's nationalist base, and stop short of a threat made during last year's campaign to halt all Muslim travel to the United States.

Trump's supporters defend the measures as necessary to prevent supporters of Al-Qaeda or the Islamic State group from infiltrating the US homeland disguised as refugees.

US President Donald Trump signs an executive order on rebuilding the armed forces at the Pentagon next to Vice President Mike Pence (L) and Defense Secretary James Mattis

And the State Department, which with the Department of Homeland Security will have to implement the measures, said it was ready to put them into immediate effect.

"We will announce any changes affecting travelers to the United States as soon as that information is available," spokesman Mark Toner said.

"We take seriously our responsibility to safeguard the American public while remaining committed to assisting the world's most vulnerable people."

Trump's order also cut the number of refugees the United States plans to resettle in fiscal year 2017 -- which is calculated from last October -- from 110,000 to 50,000.

During the Pentagon ceremony, he also signed an order to "rebuild" the US military and watched Vice President Mike Pence swear in former Marine general James Mattis as his new secretary of defense.

Trump showered Mattis with praise. Earlier he had admitted he would allow the general's opposition to the use of torture to override his own enthusiasm for harsh measures.

'Wonderful thing'

In what was a busy day from Trump, one week after his inauguration, he also met with Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May, the first foreign leader to visit his White House.

He hailed the "most special relationship" between the twin Atlantic powers and praised Britain's decision to leave the European Union as a "wonderful thing."

"When it irons out, you're going to have your own identity, and you are going to have the people that you want in your country," Trump said, in a nod to his own immigration stance.

"You're going to be able to make free trade deals without having somebody watching you and what you are doing."

May conveyed an invitation from Queen Elizabeth II for Trump to come to Britain for a state visit this year, and thanked him for his "100 percent" support of NATO.

Over the weekend, Trump is due to make calls to Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel, Russia's President Vladimir Putin, France's President Francois Hollande and Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.

He is keen to develop friendly ties with Moscow, but played down reports that he might quickly end US economic sanctions imposed on Russia for its intervention in Ukraine.
President Akufo-Addo has left the country for Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to attend the Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union (AU).

The Summit, which is to take place from the 30th to 31st of January, was preceded by a meeting of the Executive Council which started on Friday.

This will be Nana Addo's second trip outside Ghana after his inauguration as President.

The summit is on the theme: Harnessing the Demographic Dividend through Investment in the Youth.

The African leaders will also through the summit elect a new Chairperson for the African Union Commission.

A statement issued by the presidency and signed by the Acting Director of Communications, Eugene Arhin said prior to the commencement of the Ordinary Session of the Assembly on Monday, a retreat for the Heads of State will be held on Sunday, January 29, 2017 immediately after a breakfast meeting with the new Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres.

President Akufo-Addo is expected to return to Ghana on Wednesday, February 1, 2017.

Akufo-Addo swears in 12 ministers

The President on Friday swore in 12 ministers out of thirteen who had been approved by Parliament.

The Minister-designate for Foreign Affairs, Shirley Ayorkor Botchway although part of the 13 is yet to be sworn in because she is currently in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and will be sworn in at the Ghana embassy in the Ethiopian capital today [Saturday].



By: Godwin A. Allotey/citifmonline.com/Ghana

Follow @AlloteyGodwin
The Acting CEO of the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), Isaac Osei has allayed concerns over any significant impact on supplies of petroleum products following the suspension of works at the refinery.

According to him, there is enough buffer to cater for a potential drop in supply of petroleum products.

The production in the meantime will be reduced somewhat but this does not mean that it will have an effect on the public which uses products supplied by TOR,

The model which is in use, TOR does not hold its own stock of crude or finished products; crude for the time being belongs to BOST and so whatever shortfalls there are, will be taken care of by these bodies, the Acting CEO stated.

The explosion of a newly installed furnace at the Central Distillation Unit on Thursday, has led to a shutdown of the facility.

There were no casualties as engineers are reported to have stepped in to avert any harm.

But Isaac Osei explained on Eyewitness News on Friday the development is likely to result in a reduction from a daily production of 45, 000 barrels of crude.

The assurance from the former MP for Subin comes despite concerns by some analysts that the situation could lead to hikes in prices of some petroleum products.

The Director of Research and Policy at the Institute of Energy and Climate Change Policy, Dr. Philip Adom told Citi Business News the hikes may occur within the medium term.

The most obvious thing is that there is going to be serious supply disruption and if we do not take immediate action to resolve that then there is going to be increases in prices. Anytime that there is a supply deficiency, the market responds by hoarding products. If we have to resort to international crude then there will be cost implications to consumers.

The damaged furnace which was commissioned in December 2016, costs about 5 million Euros.

Meanwhile Isaac Osei has stated that investigations are ongoing to determine a plan by the managers of the facility to avert another occurrence.

The effects of the explosion were contained in a very quick time and at the moment there is a technical committee investigating and so we have to wait for the outcome when the report is ready we may out the outcome available to the public, he observed.



By: Pius Amihere Eduku/citibusinessnews.com/Ghana
Bharti Airtel, the mother company of Airtel Ghana has announced that it will be closing shop 15 African countries by the end of 2017.

The affected countries include Ghana, Nigeria, Congo, Chad, Gabon, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Niger, Rwanda, Seychelles, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia.

BloombergQuint, the India-focused subsidiary of Bloomberg, quotes Bharti Airtel Chairman Sunil Bharti Mittal as saying "the moves would pare the size of operations on the continent and could be completed within a year...some of Bhartis businesses in 14 African nations would be affected."

This confirms earlier rumours that Airtel and Tigo will merge in Ghana this year and will be taken over by a French telecom giant, Orange.

A further confirmation was a hint by some local telecom executives who told this writer they have been approached by Orange with a job offer in Ghana, while some Airtel and Tigo vendors close to talks on the possible merger have also confirmed they have been approached to start preparing for the change.

Airtel Ghana has declined to comment on the plan to exit the country.

A Tigo Ghana executive also confirmed in a conversation with some industry stakeholders that "the merger will happen".

Two years ago, when Airtel began talks to sell off its operations in Burkina Faso, Chad, Congo Brazzaville and Sierra Leone to Orange, the company had stated that it wouldnt be exiting Africa.

But mobilityarena.com, a telecoms industry online portal, reports the sale of the 14 operations in Africa has become necessary because Bharti Airtel is faced with poor performance across those markets and that is shoring up its debt portfolio.

Bhartis African unit, for instance, lost $91 million in the quarter ended September 2016, compared with a $170 million loss same period in the previous year.

The Indian global telecoms giant is, therefore, looking for ways to pare net debt equivalent to about $12 billion by September this year.

In Ghana, Airtel recently instituted charges for services it used to offer for free and made a failed attempt to take more money from its value-added service partners, and the VAS folk suspended services in protest to an 80-20 percent revenue share arrange in favour of Airtel.

Indeed, since MTN went 4G in Ghana last year, there have been moves by Tigo and Vodafone to join, but Airtel, which is part of the top four telcos in Ghana, is pretty much silent about 4G LTE.

In Nigeria, Airtel is the only one of the big four mobile operators that are yet to launch a 4G LTE network.

Back in Airtels home country, India, Reliance Jio is reported giving Airtel a big run for their money in a fierce price war that is reportedly depleting their gains.

As part of moves to reduce its debts, Bharti is also considering selling it 73.5 per cent stake in its tower unit, Bharti Infratel Ltd., but a decision is yet to be taken whether to sell minority or controlling shares.

In Ghana, Airtel is the fourth biggest operator out of six operators. Its subscriber base stands at 4.68 million, representing a market share of 12.54 per cent. It data subscriptions is a little over three million, representing some 15.71 per cent market share.

Airtel Ghana market value is estimated at some US$200 million.
An investigator at the Narcotics Control Board (NACOB) says the properties Akua Adubofour, mother of Ruby Adu-Gyamfi aka Nayele Ametefe, is claiming ownership of, after all belong to her daughter.

According to the NACOB investigator (name withheld) checks at the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) do not name Adubofour as the owner of the two storey buildings situated at East Legon and Dzorwulu, both suburbs of Accra.

Madam Adubofour is before the Accra Financial and Economic Crimes Court challenging the state over the confiscated assets.

Led in evidence by Wendy Yeboah, lawyer at NACOB, the witness stated that after the arrest and subsequent conviction of Nayele, he was tasked to identify the assets of the convict.

He said he identified one property at East Legon and the other at Dzorwulu  which is a shop  adding that after that I requested for the property rate from AMA.

The NACOB undercover investigator indicated that he further requested from the AMA how names were placed on property rates and what goes into that.

The witness stated that AMA responded to the said request and got to know Akua Adubofour after NACOB had pasted seizure notices on the stated properties.

Per the checks done at the AMA in relation to the property rate, Akua Adubofour's name is not listed as the owner of the property, he disclosed.

The trial judge, Justice Georgina Mensah-Datsa, adjourned hearing of the case for the cross-examination of the victim.

The state had filed a motion on notice for the confiscation of the purported illegal properties belonging to Nayele, who is currently serving a jail term in London for transporting 12.5kg of cocaine to Britain.

In Ghana, Marietta Brew Appiah-Opong, the immediate past Attorney General (AG), through Ms Penelope Ann Mammattha, a Chief State Attorney, filed nolle prosequi to drop the charges against six other suspects who were before an Accra Circuit Court presided over by Francis Obiri, for their alleged complicity in the cocaine case.

The application, dated February 20, 2015 and signed by the AG, stated, Take notice that the state intends that the proceedings against the accused persons in the above-named case shall not continue.

The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) and NACOB have so far confiscated all items in the Night Angels Enterprise, located along the Dzorwulu highway and six Fidelity Bank accounts, including one containing GH3.22p.

But Madam Adubofour is in court claiming that the two houses confiscated by the state as part of her daughter's assets do not belong to her (daughter).

EOCO is also demanding that Kwesi Dadzie, lawyer representing Madam Adubofour, serves Ruby in prison with processes the mother has filed claiming ownership of the two properties.

However, Madam Adubofours lawyer insists there is no need to serve her daughter with the processes since the houses belong to her (Adubofour).

By Jeffrey De-Graft Johnson

[email protected]


In his maiden post-appointment postings as the Inspector General of Police (IGP), David Asante-Apeatu has replaced COP Prosper Kwame Agblor with DCOP Bright Oduro as the Director General of the Police Criminal Investigations Department (CID).

In a police signal signed by Mr Asante-Apeatu and stumbled upon by DAILY GUIDE, COP Prosper Agblor is now Director-General, Special Duties.

DCOP Bright Oduro, until the new posting, was DG in-charge of Welfare.

ACP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, second-in-command of the PIPS, now moves to the CID headquarters as the deputy.

ACP Dennis A. Akob-dem, second-in-command, CID headquarters, now moves to CID headquarters Special Duties as second-in-command.

The changes at the CID headquarters  a critical segment of policing  is a pointer to what the new IGP intends doing to the law enforcement system which in the past few years has been regarded as not living up to the expectation of Ghanaians, including personnel of the Service.

With many deliberately delayed murder cases involving political activists, the CID is one area Ghanaians would be looking up to for addressing the many instances of improprieties.

Other changes ordered by the new Chief Constable are Chief Superintendent Paul Sampson Kontomah, the Central Regional Crime Officer, who now comes to the CID headquarters in Accra.

Chief Superintendent Eric Ken Wilful, national headquarters, Accra, moves to Projects, (headquarters), as Superintendent Benjamin Affisah, national headquarters, moves to CID headquarters.

Superintendent Alice Awarikaro, Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU), Ministries, moves to DOVVSU CID headquarters as Superintendent Philip Kwaku Atsiasa, CID headquarters, goes to Protocol, headquarters.

DSP Sophia Eva Ennim, Court Unit, Accra, goes to DOVVSU, Madina, as DSP Solomon Korli, Secretary to IGP, goes to Legal, national headquarters.

DSP Daniel Yao Dzansi, Crime, Suhum, moves to Dormaa Ahenkro in the Brong-Ahafo Region as ASP Daniel Turkson, national headquarters, goes to Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD), Kotobabi District, Accra.

ASP Simon W. Setorglo, Operations, national headquarters, goes to PIPS headquarters, Accra, as ASP Cecilia H. Appiah-Ampofo, national headquarters, goes to IRD, headquarters.

ASP Lydia Otu-Nyarko, headquarters, is going to the Police Hospital and ASP Bruce Nii-Nanka, national headquarters, heads for JOC.

ASP Gariba Basomi, national headquarters, moves to Court Unit, Accra, as ASP Stephen Antwi, Crime, Nkawkaw, goes to Suhum District as the Crime Officer.

ASP Agnes Boafo, national headquarters, has been sent to Court Unit.

It is expected that more movements would be announced in the coming weeks as sources close to the new IGP suggest that he intends to work hard to change the image of the Police Service.

By A.R. Gomda


Some of us recall the days when so many escort policemen converged on structures within the Greater Accra Education Ministry offices at Tudu. They were brought from all over the country to come and beef up security in Accra. That should have been in 1961 or 1962 following the Kulungugu bombing which turned out to be an assassination attempt on President Kwame Nkrumah. Many suspects were rounded up and sent to the Nsawam Prison where they remained until the coup of 1966.

President Kwame Nkrumah was regarded by some Ghanaians as dictatorial whose style of governance coupled with his socialist orientation was opposed to such persons.

The opposition party was very active in those days and were said to be responsible for the distribution of anti-government leaflets across the country their base being Lome, Togo.

Nkrumah's government linked up with Sylvanus Olympio in Togo so he could stop the opposition elements who were thought to be engaging in subversive activities against the CPP government.

Olympio did not go beyond the normal announcement asking non-citizens not to engage in such activities within Togolese territory. That did not end the matter as opposition elements continued their activities which shook Kwame Nkrumah to his marrow; his clampdown on suspects saying it all about his frustration and readiness to deal ruthlessly with such persons.

The United Party (UP) the formidable opposition party at the time was accused of being behind the subversive activities against Kwame Nkrumah. The intelligence community was placed on high alert as many arrests were made and with no credible trial at the time many found out that they could not resort to the law courts to have their stories heard and the necessary adjudication undertaken.

In his book about the Nkrumah days, By Nkrumah's Side- The Labour and the Wounds-Tawia Adamafio said of the period It was known to us that members of the UP in Ghana were going to and from Lome all the while in a feverish attempt to organize an uprising against us. Some boys from the North were recruited and taken to Lome for training in guerilla warfare and sabotage and the Intelligence Service was kept very busy indeed.

These were restive days in the newly independent Ghana, between 1961 and 1966, but this notwithstanding, Kwame Nkrumah visited Tenkudugo, Upper Volta, now Burkina Faso, to hold discussions over a common interest with his host Maurice Yameogo, then President.

Another meeting was over the furtherance of an African Unity policy to remove customs barriers between the two countries. That was June 1961.

And the two countries discussed the removal of customs barriers between them in furtherance of the African Unity policy which Kwame Nkrumah was in a hurry to implement.

Tawa Adamafio continues accordingly during the month of June, the Presidents of the two countries, Kwame Nkrumah and Yameogo met at the frontier post of Paga and carried out in grand style, the ceremony of 'Breaking the barrier' by demolishing a symbolic wall between the two countries.

The foregone was followed in July 1961 of the setting up of a joint commission to study the implications of the action.

The commission according to Tawia Adamafio made recommendations among which was that Upper Volta could import goods through Ghana upon which there were to be no customs duties paid. Duty was payable on all goods leaving Ghana and records kept of the amount collected which should be refunded to Upper Volta. It was agreed that to ease Voltarian difficulties, Ghana should advance Upper Volta an amount of two million pounds. At the time of the agreement, landlocked Upper Volta was in strained relations with Ivory Coast and Yameogo was seeking an alternative port to Abidjan.

It was agreed for a meeting to be held in a small town near Bawku, Tenkudugo a frontier post to finalise the deal. The date was August 1962.

Tawia Adamafio said of the event that followed: the Party Congress was scheduled for August at Kumasi, so he President and I agreed that we would attend the Congress at Kumasi on Sunday 30 July 1962 and proceed to the North the following day.

On the following day many party persons joined the President's team for the Northward trip.

Tawia Adamafio advised that since their hosts would have made arrangements for only thirty persons, the excess number be turned away but Kwame Nkrumah opposed saying since the trip was to an African country, verandahs and others places could serve as sleeping places adding that food should not be a problem.

Kwame Nkrumah and his team encountered accommodation challenge in the town; a fear expressed already by civil servants.

According to Tawia Adamafio there were not enough rooms for even the members of the delegation themselves and we were packed several men to a room. The ministers and senior officials were asked to wait in a certain hall in the building allocated to the President and it was midnight that Mr. K.B. Asante of the African Affairs Secretariat brought one of the Voltarian protocol officers who took Ako Adjei, Cofie Crabbe and me to a small two-roomed house and gave us places to sleep.

To Be Concluded Next Week

By A.R. Gomda
28.01.2017 LISTEN

Dedicated to my Spiritual Father, Prophet Emmanuel Badu Kobi, Glorious Wave Church Int., Sakumono, Ghana

Liza Minnelli, Musical Cabaret: Money makes the world go round, the world go round, the world go round. Money makes the world go round!

Blacks perceive that any White Man is a rich person or at least supposed to be not accepting that even in the World of the White Man poverty exist as this is part of earthly life and for that human reality. Most countries in Europe and other parts of the world have achieved a good and very good social system which enables the Citizen to live a life in financial security to cover expenses to sustain life while in Africa, no money is a very likely path to death, a world in which the lion reigns over the weak and vulnerable, the once that need support, a helping hand for all to feel good as we all are only one thing: human beings in our totality.

In the world of the White Man, a Professor or Lecturer with small income will still be respected greatly as knowledge is seen as the key factor for human success in life and what better than these Intellectuals to learn from and develop the right mind. Even Philosophers, a financially not profitable work, are praised by many like famous Pastors in Africa with churches filled by the Thousands and Airplanes standing outside their Mansons.

GOD creates each and every one of us, determines the Star that is about our lives, our assignment and the way we have to follow and the valleys of shadow we have to pass through to come out as worthy humans ready in our spirit and hearts to perform on GODs assignment. GOD has set before us work insight and outsight ourselves. Someone that takes up his cross and follows the path set before him to the best of his abilities with asking always for progress and helpers from GOD and in the earthly world, one dayone day will surely reach his wonderful destiny. To walk with GOD is not an easy ride, but it is the certain way to reach the Star shining above him.

Spiritual maturity is part of the work to be done as well as developing intellectual capacity and capability that is found in ideas, inventions, philosophical disputes and teachings besides reading, meditation, quite and lonely times to uncover the inner self, the most private part of a human, the  I . Blacks like to have too many friends, talk too much without having something to share with substance and do not value the importance of reading.

Even Graduates find it more joyful to spend their time in Chop Bars than their nose between the pages of an Autobiography, History Book or the works of famous Philosophers. They allow their brain to fall dry instead of watering it every day with a shower of intellectual blessings. Brain is always for free, so is thinkingit is a decision to use or ignore it. Blacks like to ignore their human capacity to stand out in life one generation above the past one.

We live in the Earth and not in Heaven for which reason Money is the key factor. Blacks only respect Money. Someone might be an Analphabetic, a Criminal, a corrupt person, dishonest, cheater and liar, as long as he can demonstrate money, Blacks love him and adore his riches ready to follow his path in life. They do not see and accept, that money to get in an honest way is a process of many years and hard work in life and in someones mind to come out over time victoriously while never forgetting on the way als well as once rich, to show always respect to any human being; as someones today is not his tomorrow and GOD has his own planes with each and every one of us. The Bible is saying, the last will be the first and the first will be the last. History is full of examples demonstrating this simple truth. Whatsapp was sold for USD 19 Billion to Facebook by a Co-Founder once rejected by Facebook and Google regardless of 12 years IT-Experiences.

Some Whites set out with big hopes and dreams to make a good life for themselves in Africa and use their money and intellectual capacity and experiences to make something positive happen. Few are Day-Dreamers, some are Realists. More than anticipated, they cannot make it in Africa and fall down not being able to see behind the scenes of Africa and the real faces of Blacks. Before long, all their money and hopes are stolen by the African System carved in Human being statues. Blacks have only an interest in the White Man when he has money for them to chop, once gone, respect is there no more.

They walk around desperately in the streets of Africa, shoes and trousers worn out, faces scarved by life, grey lines around their eyes; Hanging shoulders, empty in their spirit. Beaten up by lifes unfairness, these people are worse in Africa than in their own countries. Blacks see them as trash, disregard them worse than a Black Bagger as they do not stop in the back of their mind to assume this White People are supposed to have money and when not, deserve to be treated not like Human beings, but like animals worse than anybody of their own race. The life of such Whites is worse and more hopeless than of Blacks unless they find the way back into their own society before finding themselves dead at Osu Cemetery forgotten by everybody as their own families back home will never come for a funeral and stand ever at the grave side to show respect to the late family member.

Black Believers, true and honest in their heart knowing and following GODs word by the Spirit and Letter, are different as they understand the value GOD has for his people and sees in them. These numbers are small, for which reason the Churches that have a Vision, their Pastors know about the Revelations in the Bible and how best to share them, have a long way ahead of hard work constantly to impart their fellow men for the Black Man, over Generations to come, to stand out victoriously and shining among the people of these world.

Author: Dipl.-Pol. Karl-Heinz Heerde, Lashibi, Tema West, Ghana, phone +233(0)265078287, [email protected] , 26.01.2017
28.01.2017 LISTEN

The controversial former General Secretary of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the newly appointed Director-General of the Ghana Ports & Harbours Authority, Lawyer Kwadwo Owusu Afriyie, aka Sir John, has brushed aside critics on President Akufo-Addo's supposed plagiarism during his inauguration as President of Ghana.

He said, even former President Mahama was caught up in the same web when he stole Kumawood star, Kwadwo Nkansah Lil Win's 'I Can't Far' quotes.

According to Sir John, people always borrow quotations during speeches so there was no big deal when Akufo-Addo quoted other past presidents in his speech.

Sir John was speaking to popular and controversial political journalist, Daniel Benin, aka Ohim on TV7 flagship program Monitoring Agenda.

"Kumawood star Lil Win should question the former President of the Republic of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, for plagiarism, for using his quote 'I Can't Think Far' during his campaign trail in the run up to the 2016 elections last year. Lil Win is still alive here with us but no credit was duly given to him," Sir John argued.
Second tranche of housing aid soon, says NRA CEO

Chief Executive Officer of National Reconstruction Authority Govinda Raj Pokharel has said the second tranche of the housing reconstruction aid will be distributed to the families rendered homeless by the Gorkha Earthquake soon.
Top scribe of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and former General Secretary, Lawyer Kwadwo Owusu Afriyie, aka Sir John has compassionately waded into the controversial cantonments apartment which his party the NPP refused to give to former President Mahama upon several requests.

According to Sir John, he personally wished Mahama had kept the apartment because the state would surely build one for him which may even cost more than that particular apartment at Cantonments.

Sir John was speaking to popular and controversial political journalist, Daniel Benin, aka Ohim on TV7 flagship program Monitoring Agenda.

These assertions make Sir John the only NPP member that supports the idea that Former President Mahama should have kept the Cantonments apartment.

It would be recalled that the Nana Akufo-Addo government rejected the request made by Former President John Dramani Mahama to keep the official residence in Cantonments, in Accra.

A letter dated December 19, 2016, and signed by the former Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, made a request to the Transition Team of the new government to allow Former President to keep Bungalow No.3 of Prestige Link in Cantonments, and its adjoining facilities as his retirement home.

The President also requested to have Bungalow No.6 on 3rd Avenue, Ridge, as his office.

Sir John also stated that he developped pity for John Mahama when he was being bullied on radio and social media which was not a pleasant experience.

On plagairism brouhaha, he said not long ago, late former President Atta Mills in 2009, messed up his swearing in oath when he failed to recite words from the Oath.

"Ghanaians even called for a repetition of Mills' swearing in ceremony; where were the NDC communicators? Fast forward, again John Mahama in 2013 during his inaugural speech had quotes from other presidents too.

...He mentioned former US President, John F. Kennedy quotes. These are some of the quotes from John Mahama inaugural speech on Paragraph 22'........In Your Hands, My Fellow Citizens, More Than Mine, Will Rest The Final Sucess Or Failure Of Our Cause', Sir John quoted.

On good governance, he assured Ghanaians President Nana Akufo-Addo with his solid ready to serve appointees will work hard to fulfill all promises in the NPP Manifesto during Elections 2016.
28.01.2017 LISTEN

By Ken Sackey, GNA

Accra, Jan. 27, GNA - President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo on Friday left Accra for Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to join other African leaders for the 28th African Union (AU) Summit.

The 28th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union would open on Monday, January 30, 2017.

The trip to Ethiopia is President Akufuo Addo's second foreign travel as Head of State and Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces and is expected back in Accra on Wednesday, February 1, 2017.

The two-day summit, themed 'Harnessing the demographic dividend through investments in the youth', is expected to strengthen advocacy among African Heads of State to achieve the demographic dividend in Africa.

The Heads of State would at the Summit elect the Chairperson and the Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission. GNA
By Benjamin Mensah/ Christopher Arko, GNA Accra, Jan 28, GNA - Parliament, after an initial objection from the Minority members of the Appointments Committee on two of five ministers designate by President Nana Akufo -Addo, on Friday evening finally reached a consensus and approved all.

There was initial recommendation to approve two of the ministers designate - Mr Yaw Osafo Maafo, Senior Minister, Mr Boakye Agyarko, for Energy- by a majority, but the leadership of the Appointments Committee of Parliament(ACP), after a caucus meeting directed by the Speaker, reported that the two had been cleared of issues on which concerns were raised.

The House therefore okayed the nominations of President Nana Akufo Addo of Mr Yaw Osafo Maafo a Senior Minister; Mr Boakye Agyarko, Energy, Dr Mathew Opoku Prempeh, Education, Mr Kwaku Agyeman-Manu, Health and Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto, Food and Agriculture.

Contributing to the motion to adopt the 'the second report of the Appointments Committee' of the ministers designate, Mr Haruna Iddrisu, Minority Leader and Ranking Member of the Committee said the Minority members wanted Mr Osafo-Maafo to clarify his statement that his involvement in the CNTI loan was revoked in the records of Parliament.

Also, the Minority had issues with ethnocentric comment attributed to Mr Osafo-Maafo which sought to polarise the country, to which Mr Osafo- Maafo had said it was rather distorted.

Mr Iddrisu requested recordings to compare what he told the committee with what was on the tape.

He said if Mr Osafo-Maafo was able to provide the recordings, clarify the statement and provide evidence to show that the CNTI loan issue had been expunged from the parliamentary records, they could reach a consensus.

On Mr Agyarko, Mr Iddrisu wondered why the Energy Minister designate was not able to match statement on the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) debt.

He said that Mr Agyarko also alleged that former President John Dramani Mahama was involved in the sole sourcing of the Floating Storage and Regasification Units (FSRUs), and further claimed that there were three FSRUs.

To reach consensus on the approval, Messrs Osafo-Maafo and Agyarko needed to appear before the committee to clarify the issues with proof; a request to which Mr Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, the Majority Leader brought into the Speaker's waiting room.

He subsequently suggested that the leadership and leaders of the ACP should go and meet them for the clarification, a request for which the Speaker, Professor Aaron Michael Oquaye, granted the leadership the leave to meet the two nominees.

The outcome of the meeting according to the Minority Leader was Mr Osafo-Maafo and Mr Agyarko had clarified the issues, which encouraged them to approve their nominations.

Mr Iddrisu said Mr Agyarko had withdrawn his statement which sought to impugn corruption on former President Mahama on the FSRUs.

GNA
Banjul (Gambia) (AFP) - Gambian President Adama Barrow said Saturday that every aspect of his tiny west African state would need an overhaul after ex-leader Yahya Jammeh's 22-year rule, but that its dread secret police would remain.

Barrow faces an uphill task after taking over from Jammeh, who left behind a dysfunctional economy and allegedly emptied state coffers ahead of his departure.

Rights group blame the notorious National Intelligence Agency (NIA) under his longtime control for forced disappearances and torture.

Barrow said the NIA was "an institution that has to continue", but that its name would be changed and training would be given to its operatives.

"The rule of the law, that will be the order of the day," he said.

Barrow also addressed one of Jammeh's most controversial declarations, from 2015, that The Gambia was an "Islamic republic".

Barrow, in contrast, insisted the country -- whose population is 90 percent Muslim, with the rest Christian and animist -- was a republic, "not the Islamic republic".

Civil servants would likely return to a five-day work week, breaking with Jammeh's rule that Friday was a day off in line with his Islamic republic rules.

"My government is going to look at every avenue and there will be a complete overhaul of the system," Barrow said, speaking at his first press conference since arriving back from Senegal on Thursday.

The president promised his cabinet would be named early next week so that he could "get the ball rolling", adding he would receive the first comprehensive information about the state of the nation's finances also on Monday or Tuesday.

Jammeh has been accused by a Barrow aide of taking $11 million from the state coffers before leaving for exile in Equatorial Guinea, and diplomats have said the country was already in a precarious financial state.

Barrow's first cabinet pick, Vice President Fatoumata Jallow-Tambajang, has caused controversy as she is allegedly too old to serve, according to current constitutional rules.

Asked about reform of The Gambia's army, whose poor reputation is partly responsible for the presence of 4,000 west African troops to guarantee Barrow and the population's safety, the president said he expected foreign nations to provide help.

"In the army, if we need technical aid, we will contact countries that are willing to help us," he said.

Controversial army chief Ousman Badjie would however keep his job, he said.

There was "no time set" for the west African force to leave, Barrow added.
Word!

Read that.............

"......SECRET...KULUNGUGU...REKINDLED OPPOSITION AT HIS (NKRUMAH'S) CENTER OF POWER....."!

Most people will agree that one of the hallmarks of a critical thinker is their ability to visualize linkages (valid ones, we must say), in things that happen around them, things and events that may seem distant and unrelated, but really are, when analyzed with objectivity and candor against a varied background of life experiences, with "doses" of authentic historical artifacts.

Accounts by coup plotters and narratives of subversives are rarely valid data one can hang one's hat on!

Following the 1957 Howard Johnson restaurant orange juice incident in Delaware, USA, Vice President Nixon and his boss, President Eisenhower, met privately with Komla "Agbdli" Gbedemah in Washington D.C. As one report has it:

"....President Eisenhower was embarrassed to have to apologize to Ghanian Finance Minister Komla Agbeli Gbedemah, who, as a black man, had been refused service at a Howard Johnson restaurant in Dover, Delaware...".

On the same day Komla Gbedemah met Eisenhower and Nixon, Gbedemah was supposed to be en route to London. In all fair reports about the Dover incident, including US State Department records reviewed, nowhere do we find that Eisenhower promised anything to Gbedemah, including approving any Akosombo Dam loan facility, which in fact he did not. At that time, among other US interests was the recognition that:

"... a refusal to aid the Volta Project or a withdrawal of the aluminum companies from the Valco smelter would have very undesirable effect on Western relations with Ghana....(that the US also)...attempt to create a situation under which it will be more advantageous for the Governments of Ghana (and Guinea), politically and economically, to permit these enterprises to continue their operations under Western control rather than to nationalize them...".

In the 21st Century, one of the larger lessons on American political history, and of the world, if the reader will pardon the element of grandiosity, is to believe precious little of what Vice-President, then-President, then-successfully-impeached-President Richard Nixon, ever said. That is, unless it is on a tape or paper in the hands of a person other than Richard Nixon.

So, about three weeks ago, it was reported that in 1968 Republican Nixon actually committed treason against his own country, the United States. Papers discovered recently show that in that year, Nixon in fact ordered a "monkey wrench" be thrown into a peace agreement to halt the Vietnam war that was merely awaiting signature. As a result, thousands of additional human lives were lost and destroyed, and the Vietnam war continued on. Richard Nixon did that just so Richard Nixon could win an election to be President of America.

Several of our recent award winning essays discuss how, before Nixon's Vietnam treachery, the impact of the overthrow of Kwame Nkrumah most likely resulted in substantially more needless deaths and injuries in Vietnam, on all sides. We arrived at that conclusion because Nkrumah's peace mission to help end the Vietnam carnage on all sides in February of 1966, a trip that was "blessed" by President Johnson with the assurance that Nkrumah's aircraft would not be shot out of the sky above Hanoi, was actually a "pasty-horsey", a sad, calculated, ruse. It was a strategy to get Nkrumah out of Ghana so Kotoka-Harlley-Afrifa-Deku-Ankrah could safely stage the Johnson CIA-sponsored coup d'etat against Nkrumah. As a result, thousands of additional human lives were lost and destroyed, and the Vietnam war continued on.

The February 1966 coup was staged soon after the Akosombo Dam went online, to:

(1) "Payback" Kwame Nkrumah for his selfless drive for an independent Ghana

(2) To deprive Nkrumah the goodwill Ghanaians and other Africans would have showered on Nkrumah for the construction of Akosombo Dam

(3) To deprive Nkrumah of the stature that would have accrued to Nkrumah from the shiny Akosombo "Nkania" Power Dam in the eyes of other African leaders too scared to push their countries to greater political independence (e.g., Tubman of Liberia).

(4) To cause the deportation of all Eastern "Block" development, humanitarian and military assistants, and the sure cancellation of all agreements with the "Block", and to allow the US to declare great success (victory, perhaps), in the Cold War, in Ghana, through the removal of independent-minded, non-aligned, Ghana, of Kwame Nkrumah.

In the case of Ghana, Gbedemah had an important part in all of those Eisenhower-Nixon subterfuges!

Following the passage of the US Civil Rights Acts of 1964 under President Johnson, long before Donald Trump, Richard Nixon invented and perfected the "southern strategy". That political tactic divided Americans into White interests and Black interests in the south, effectively resulting in political hegemony by Whites and essentially, dis-enfranchisement of millions of non-White voters, for generations.

What would Richard Nixon, in Washington, DC, not have done or said to the still greedy, the then sharply-compromised Komla Gbedemah, against Nkrumah, so Richard Nixon could achieve US foreign policy goals that were not at odds with his own political interests?

From Accra to Basel, to Lome, to Takoradi, to London, to Geneva, to Kumasi, Washington, DC, to Frankfort, to Kulungugu, to Zurich, and all places in between, Gbedemah used his official position to subvert Kwame Nkrumah's development agenda for Ghana, to make way for Gbedemah, and to personally profit. The essay below and other information now available show that Gbedemah used many "henchmen" to nurse his secret ambitions and activate his diabolical plans. Among the Gbedemah lackey's were Victor de Grand Brempong (his personal assistant), Bishop Andrew van den Bronk of Kumasi, K. Dekon (Lome/Togo Police Commissar), and of course, Kofi Abrefa Busia, the rascal and rattler.

Unlike Gbedemah, Busia had little financial means, or opportunity to finance!

SOURCE : https://legallegacy.wordpress.com/2014/10/10/october-10-1957-president-eisenhower-apologizes-to-ghanas-finance-minister/.

And so, practically on the eve of Ghana's independence, Busia was reported to have been on a clandestine visit to the US Embassy in Accra begging for money to support his political activities, in Ghana.

Surely, the critical mind knows that receiving funds secretly from another Ghanaian would have been a lot safer than making trips in the dead of the night to foreign embassies in your nation's capital. Predictably, when Busia finally became President of Ghana, Busia could not contain himself from seeking audiences with US and UK leaders to report on the activities of other African leaders, just like Tubman of Liberia was doing all his leadership-life, west of Ghana.

Still on the record!

By this historic and DEFINITIVE essay, significant gaps in the knowledge and political history of Ghana up to 1964 at bottom of the subversion of the CPP government of Kwame Nkrumah that eventually resulted in the overthrow of Nkrumah in 1966, continue to be laid to eternal rest.

Still at the center of the essay today are Komla "Agbdli" Gbedemah and Dr. Kofi Abrefa Busia.

Sure, Gbedemah, as Finance Minister, had the preparatory piece on the Akosombo/Volta Dam and the VALCO Smelter projects. They were international deals, after all.

Still, it is not the mark of a critical thinker who says that after the racist Howard Johnson event in 1957, Gbedemah was invited to meet personally, in private, with President Eisenhower and Vice President Nixon, because Nixon and Eisenhower felt terrible for Gbedemah himself. Or that they felt bad about that American "custom and tradition" of racial discrimination on account it had been meted to an African official from Ghana who once hosted Nixon in his house in Accra, while millions of African Americans in their own country suffered the same fate, and much worse, all over Martin Luther King's America.

Not likely!

As this paper argues, Gbedemah, at this point in Delaware, was not only a British mole. In addition, the US had some assignments for Komla Gbedemah. The tasks were against the strongly independent, super Ghana-Centered Kwame Nkrumah and Nkrumah's foreign policy of neutrality between "Cold" West and "Cold" East.

That, their reader, has been our lead-in to Part 3 of our expose!

Again, as mentioned, the paper below was originally translated from French. That may explain some of the quirks you find. For instance, Busia's United Party is "United Busia Party" in certain places in the paper. In addition, the type-written paper was converted to modern text electronically.

CONTINUED FROM PART 2.......

READ...........



Re-post of "THE TRUTH ABOUT KOMLA GBEDEMAH BY A NON-GHANAIAN INTELLECTUAL", 1964.

"A pamphlet first published in French and translated into English makes these and many more startling revelations. The name of the writer, a non-Ghanaian intellectual, has been kept secret for security reasons....

"THE NEW PATRON:

"In 1958 Gbedemah went to the U.S. where he negotiated with the American Government on some aspects of technical assistance to Ghana and a loan for the Volta River Project. It should be pointed out that by that time the Americans took very great interest in the young Republic and Gbedemah's arrival, whose leanings towards the West were well known, proved quite an asset for Washington.

Negotiations ended successfully, not for Ghana naturally, but for the U.S. and Gbedemah. The latter understood that apart from the British, there were other generous supporters with their hand-outs. Besides, certain conditions of carrying through the Volta project spelled very great opportunities for Gbedemah's personal enrich-ment. American businessmen, in turn, were very pleased with Gbedemah.

Ghana's Finance Minister demonstrated a rare understanding of their interests, and agreed to defend in the Cabinet a number of terms favourable for American business circles, such as the joint construction project of an aluminum plant in the vicinity of the Volta river with subsequent transfer of the controlling interest to the Americans, granting the "" Star Kissed "" Co. a monopoly on catching the tuna-fish in Ghana's territorial waters, the use of the local, in other words, cheap labour, etc.

In general, the Ghanaian Minister proved quite a tractable man who agreed to meet in Accra with Allan Dulles's agent as a confirmation of his loyalty to the U.S. Great was the astonishment of Gbedemah when several days after his return from the U.S. his personal assistant, Victor de Grand Brempong, entered his study and gave him the first instructions on behalf of his overseas boss. Under these instruc- tions Gbedemah was to compromise Nkrumah and ensure conditions for his overthrow.

SERVANT OF TWO MASTERS:

The crisp dollar notes released a new wave of energy in Gbedemah. He remembered very well the words of farewell in Washington: "" We know how to show our appreciation of the people who are sympathetic towards U.S. interests "". And Gbedemah spared no effort so as to prove to his new patron that it was he, Gbedemah, and no one else in Ghana, who could understand these interests.

Through Brempong and other people with whom he established connections, Gbedemah started hectic activities aimed at over-throwing Nkrumah and seizing power. These activities were carried out along several lines. Gbedemah's agents tried to create an atmosphere in the Covention People's Party completely intolerable for Dr. Nkrumah, by spreading slanderous rumours and artificially

created an atmosphere of squabbles, mutual suspicion and slander. Simultaneously Gbedemah's henchmen started subversive activities among the population, trade unions and the army. Brempong established contacts with the opposition centre in Ashanti, in particular with Bishop Andrew van den Bronk.

Gbedemah himself preferred to remain in the shade as is becoming a real conspirator. He planned to use for launching a coup d' etat Busia's United Party, hoping to emerge on the scene at the decisive moment in the chief role.

All instruc-tions and recommendations of his patrons Gbedemah received through Brempong and only at the height of the preparations for the coup did Gbedemah meet personally several times with U.S. representatives, in particular with the labour attache of the U.S. Embassy in Accra, Mr. Dint. True, he had to see other people from time to time who reminded him that he was still "" the prison graduate "". But here the instructions were of a different sort. Apparently by that time London no longer considered Gbedemah as the main trump card in Ghana and their assignments had smacked of plain espionage.

Apart from providing information, Gbedemah had to organise the smuggling of gold, diamonds, and foreign currency as well as arrange profitable deals for six British gold mining companies.

RISKY GAME:

The tasks given to Gbedemah by the Americans were much more complicated. He had to cause economic and political chaos in the country using the support of the opposition, including the United Busia Party, and prepared an anti-government plot with the view of establishing a regime in Ghana that would pave the way for American business interests. Gbedemah realised that that was a very risky deal. He did not doubt that the coup would be a success counting on all-mighty Washington. He also took into consideration that after the victory over Nkrumah he would have to fight Busia who, naturally, would aspire to the role of Ghana's dictator. That would certainly entail a clash with the British who could cause much trouble after finding out that their graduate managed to secretly graduate from another school and completely forget his first teachers.

To whip up Gbedemah Washington gave him to understand that in case the coup was successful Gbedemah would be given support to spread his power over the neighbouring Togo and Nigeria which eventually would secure him an outstanding position in the entire Pan-African movement.

From this it followed that he, Gbedemah, could become one of the principal creatures of the Americans in Africa and as such would make other African leaders count with his recommendations.

This prospect inflamed Gbedemah's ambitions, especially because together with power it promised money too. The Americans hurried Gbedemah say-ing that any delay was dangerous since the moment for a coup might be lost.

In July, 1961 Gbedemah was asked to come to the U.S. Officially this trip was explained by the necessity of finishing negotiations on the American financing of the Volta project. However, the main subject of talks with Gbedemah in Washington was the thorough elaboration of all details of the coup, which was to take place during Nkrumah's trip to Eastern Europe.

To implement that plan the United Busia Party as well as people recruited by the C.I.A. agents, who worked as clerks in American firms and representations in Ghana, had to be brought into play. It was assumed that the moment the agents instigate disorders in the country and start attacks against Nkrumah, Gbedemah would address the people with an appeal for law and order and would declare the creation of a new government, with opposition leaders in the key posts.

The political programme for the new regime drawn up in Washington included a number of demagogic promises to Ghana's population, an amnesty to all prisoners, the unlimited freedom of private enterprise, etc. Gbedemah was given assurances that at least two of Ghana's neighbours, Togo and Liberia, would immediately recognise the new government. Simultaneously, a campaign would start in the West in support of Gbedemah's regime. The final touch: a report from Washington announcing the signature of the agreement for financing the Volta project.

The September strikes in Ghana, the activisation of the opposition and the increasing differences between the leaders of the Convention People's Party proved the first stage of this master plan. As P. member of the Presidential Commission which executed the functions of Ghana's President when Nkrumah was away, Gbedemah was lying low in expectation of the United Party's actions so as to make short work of the principal supporters of Nkrumah and then declare himself head of the new government.

As everyone knows this has not come to pass.

'PIE CONSPIRACY FAILS:

The main mistakes made by Gbedemah and his patrons which led to the fiasco of the planned coup d'etat were their underestimation of the influence and popularity of Dr. Nkrumah and the Convention People's Party among the Ghanaian population, and an overestimation of the possibi-lities and power of the opposition. Very often the nature of the cult of Nkrumah and "" Nkrumaism "" in Ghana are misinterpreted abroad.

Frequently this cult is pictured as the deification of the dictator forced up on the people.

In reality one has to spend but a few days in Ghana to become convinced that it is the people of that country, true to their national traditions, who put the Osagyefo on a pedestal and took an oath of allegiance and loyalty to him. Explanation must be sought not only in the personal qualities of Dr. Nkrumah as a man but mainly in the successes scored by Ghana under his leadership.

In 1961, Ghana demonstrated that she can develop independently and not only without guidance on the part of the Europeans but even in conditions of imperialist resistance. The "" Ghanaisation "" of the state apparatus and the army has been carried out in the country. Great changes were carried out in Ghana's economy as a result of nationalising a number of large enterprises engaged in the mining of gold and diamonds, foreign trade, the purchasing of agricultural products, etc.

The living standards of the popula-tion showed a steep rise and proved the highest in tropical Africa. Measures taken by the government to create the state sector of the economy and restrictions put on foreign capital provided opportunities for starting planned development of the country. The country's constitution introduced by the British was revised. Parliament began to play an active role. Of special interest in Ghana is the establishment of the Auditor-General's Office.

The Auditor-General enjoys complete indepen-dence and controls the entire financial activities of governmental institutions. The reports of the Auditor-General, very often critical of ministers and government departments, are published regularly.

All these measures ensured popularity for Kwame Nkrumah and his Convention People's Party the latter doubling the number of members from one to two million people in 1960-1961. By that time opposition had no serious support of the masses to speak of. It was backed in Ghana solely by Nkrumah's personal enemies who were striving for power and enrichment, as well as by heads of some tribes who sacrificed the general interests of the nation for clannish ones. The majority of the opposition leaders enjoyed the notoriety of specu-lators, dishonest businessmen and intriguers.

The well-planned and thoroughly prepared campaign of strikes and riots in Ghana did not yield the desired results. The actions of the restricted group of plotters were not supported by the entire population of Ghana. Gbedemah saved his skin because he did not take the decisive step.

As a result the only thing he brought upon himself was Nkrumah's admonitions and accusation of passivity and shilly-shallying during the height of disorders.

All this undermined Gbedemah's position.

Besides, he had all grounds to believe that in the long run the Ghanaian security services would reach him too. He felt that he was losing ground and that the best move now would be to flee from Ghana.

Gbedemah's friends in Washington also arrived at the conclusion that his further stay in Accra was not only dangerous but also quite inadvisable. The failure of the coup only served to strengthen Nkrumah's regime and made conditions very difficult for the opposition and foreign agents.

It was, therefore, decided to make Gbedemah leader of the opposition in "" voluntary exile "" and entrust him with organising compaigns of slander so as to compromise Nkrumah, as well as with preparing another plot, aimed at assassinating Nkrumah and at changing the regime in Ghana.

The Americans recommended that Gbedemah act in close contact with Busia so as to use the United Party for the preparation of the coup, and that he try and rally all opposition forces. Special agents in U.S. higher educational establishments as well as in those of Europe started working on the Ghanaian students abroad with the view of winning them over to the side of the conspirators.

Certain African leaders who resented the popularity of Nkrumah in Africa were also to be used in the campaign of compromising Ghana's President.

On September 29, 1961 in compliance with instructions, Gbedemah gave his consent to resignation, which Nkrumah suggested he should hand in, and declared that from then on he would continue his political activities as a private person.

THE HORNET'S NEST:

On an October day in 1961, after closing hours, several people came together in one of the shops near the railway station in Lome. When they came to the door of the shop they looked around them nervously. Everything went on as in a classical detective story. There was the special knock on the door, the password and even several masks.

However, no masks could conceal from the citizens of Lome the too familiar figures of Togo's Minister of Internal Affairs, Teophil Mally,, and the Commissar of Police of the city of Lome, C. Dekon.

It was more difficult to identify the man with typical Anglo-Saxon features.

But the name of Leonard Desimus meant absolutely nothing to anyone who did not know that it was an alias of George Davis, representative of one of the most powerful western intelligence services. It was this man who declared the meeting of the conspirators open.

Gbedemah briefed the participants on that clandestine meeting on the situation in Ghana.

He said among other things that in Accra, Kumasi, Takoradi and other cities, especially in the north of the country, there are persons dissatisfied with Nkrumah's socialism and prepared to take very decisive steps against it. In this way the Americans thought to remove Gbedemah's rival at the last moment.

Happy days had begun for Gbedemah. The British began to show more interest in their graduate "", hatching plans similar to the American ones with the only difference that London was preparing Busia for the role of the future dictator, while Gbedemah was to be used for the cloak and dagger and then put on trial as an assassin.

Thus, American dollars and British pounds sterling started flowing with renewed force into Gbedemah's pockets.

He opened personal accounts in several banks in Geneva, Zurich and Basel.

He bought a villa in Nice for one of his mistresses, Dossea Kissey, and occasionally visited her there.

The lust for money in Gbedemah took the upper hand over fear or qualms of conscience. Putting with one hand the pounds sterling and with the other the American dollars into his pockets to pay the services of the terrorists and buy weapons for them, he meted out spurious banknotes for various other services, leaving the hard currency in his own bank accounts.

By the summer of 1962 the conspirators managed to complete a big part of their work. It was reported from Accra that everything was ready for the assassination of Dr. Nkrumah. K. Dekon, Lome's Police Commissar early that year shipped over the border a large consignment of leaflets, weapons and explosives. Several hundred plastic bombs were bought in Paris and shipped over to Lome.

Gbedemah's cousin Adjavon had a real military depot in his house in Lome which could probably compete in size with the national arsenals of Togo.

While visiting Hamburg in June, 1962, Gbedemah received 20,000 Ghanaian pounds from an Ameri-can representative and another 50,000 from London. Later on the U.S. Ambassador in Lome gave him another 50,000 as well as a special "" manual "" on the organisation of coup d'etat, as well as weapons. Out of the 120,000 pounds Gbedemah paid 5,000 to the Ghanaian exile Salifu Imoro, a participant of the plot. And that he did only because it was in the house of Imoro in Lome the address of which is B.P. 20, that the above- mentioned George Davis had lived and who was not supposed to have even the remotest suspicions that Gbedemah was pocketing the money given to him.

The attempt on Nkrumah's life was fixed for August 1st, during his trip to the village of Kulun-gugu on the border with the Republic of Upper Volta. It is common knowledge that the assassins fired and missed. The arrests that followed dealt a heavy blow to Gbedemah's organisation although at that time very few people knew that it was Gbedemah himself who was in the centre of the conspiracy...."

To be continued.....

NOTES:

1. Rhapsodyinbooks, October 10, 1957  President Eisenhower Apologizes to Ghanas Finance Minister, (https://legallegacy.wordpress.com/2014/10/10/october-10-1957-president-eisenhower-apologizes-to-ghanas-finance-minister/).

2. CHARLES P. PIERCE. This Was Treason. Nixon Did It. Don't sweep it under the rug, (http://www.esquire.com/news-politics/politics/news/a52002/nixon-vietnam-peace-talks-1968/).

3. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Ghana, Washington, October 9, 19576:21 p.m, (https://history.state.gov/historicaldocuments/frus1955-57v18/d130).

VISIT WWW.GHANAHERO.COM/VISIONS, FOR MO' INFORMATION:

FOIB - Freedom of Information Bill (FOIB/FOI/Ghana), Ask for it! ( http://ghanahero.com/FOIB.html ).

SUBJ: Greedy Komla Agbdli Gbedemah and his rascal side-kick Kofi Abrefa Busia!, Part 3, re-post of "THE TRUTH ABOUT KOMLA GBEDEMAH BY A NON-GHANAIAN INTELLECTUAL", 1964, with commentary by Prof Lungu.

Support Fair-Trade Oil Share Ghana (FTOS-Gh) Campaign/Petition:

https://www.change.org/p/ghana-fair-trade-oil-share-psa-campaign-ftos-gh-psa/ .

Brought to you courtesy www.GhanaHero.com27 Jan 17.

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Pablo Escobar

28.01.2017 LISTEN

Pablo Emilio Escobar Gaviria, the founder and leader of the Medellin Cartel in Columbia, was born in 1949 and died in 1993.

He has been described as arguably the most notorious and wealthiest criminal in world history.

Interestingly, he became a billionaire, and was one of the top 10 richest people in the world at the peak of his career in the late 1980's.

Many people even perceived him as a devil incarnate who usually acted as an angel of light. Yes, he actually lived a very contrasting life; he was a narco-terrorist and a philanthropist in equal measure.

Frankly speaking, his bad deeds really outweighed his good deeds, and the evils he was credited with were largely unprecedented.

However, the "Be Rare" philosophy sees the positives of Pablo Escobar as quite rare, worth sharing and even worthy of emulation.

I also believe they are priceless lessons  both in business and life  which can be learnt in the pursuit of success by young people.

Here are a few lessons that emanate from the positive life of Pablo Escobar as an incredibly prosperous businessman.

Firstly, Escobar worked his butt off, regardless of the obstacles he encountered from the authorities and his competitors, because he was bent on dominating the entire drug trafficking trade due to his money-grabbing attitude. So the Medellin Cartel once supplied about 80% of the cocaine smuggled into the United States, earning them an estimated $22 billion a year.

Secondly, Pablo Escobar knew that if he wanted to greatly succeed in the narcotics business, which was his passion, he needed to risk his life for it. Drug trafficking in Columbia was extremely risky in those days, because it frequently led to many violent deaths. Yet he vowed to get filthy rich through it, or to simply die trying his best.

Thirdly, Pablo Escobar was outstandingly smart; he deployed the "Plata O Plomo" strategy, which implied, "Accept bribe or face the bullet." He did so when the authorities pursued him for the atrocities he had committed as a ruthless drug lord. Strangely enough, that evil plan worked perfectly for him since the Police, judges, public officials, anti-drug advocates, ordinary citizens etc. were either corrupt or cowardly.

Also, he was very good at business management. Of course, Pablo was a highly accomplished businessman. He had mastery over business processes such as production, marketing, supply chain, human resource and finance, especially relating to the cocaine trade. For instance, a pilot who flew an aircraft that carried loads of cocaine to the United States could earn as much as $500,000 per flight a day.

Lastly, Escobar strove to gain a good reputation in society through philanthropy. Entrepreneurs would need public backing at some crucial stage when they least expect yet badly need it. Pablo Escobar figured that out and donated to the poor, and also provided social facilities such as hospitals, churches, stadia, parks etc. So the ordinary Columbian people defiantly supported Pablo Escobar even when he was regarded as a very notorious criminal.

Therefore, be as rare as Pablo Escobar. I mean, live an unparalleled life on earth  a completely good one though  that would forever inspire generations to come, and be etched in the memory of posterity.

Written by Sir Article, Founder and CEO of Sircle Communications.

Source: sirarticle.blogspot.com
The Apostolic Church of Ghana has donated a cash amount to the Jafouk and Jamong families in Bunkpurugu.

The donation was made by Reverend/Pastor Stephen Yaw Darko, the District Pastor for Bunkpurugu-Nakpanduri area of the Northern region. According to Pastor Stephen, the donation was part of the mission and vision of the apostolic church.

On behalf of the President, Apostle Peter Okorh , Management Committee and National Council of the Apostolic Church of Ghana and my own behalf as the area head and District Pastor for Bunkpurugu-Nakpanduri we are making this cash donation to support our mothers, fathers, youth , children and the vulnerable who were affected in the last conflict in February 2016.

This support comes from the headquarters of the Apostolic Church of Ghana Accra to enable those of us who are still homeless to renovate or reconstruct your homes. Pastor Darko.

The Church has been praying for peace to return to the District capital Bunkpurugu, where the jafouk and the jamong had some brotherhood issues. We are very happy and grateful that peace has finally returned and there is maximum cooperation and human freedom.

Pastor Stephen Yaw Darko was accompanied by his Wife Madam Georgina Darko, and the Pastor in-charge of the Apostolic Church at Nakpanduri, including elders and members of the Church in the District.

Reverend Darko however declined disclosing the amount of cash donation in each envelops to the two families. He called on the Paramount chief of Bunkpurugu, Naa Alhaji Abuba Nasinmong Lemin to ensure and maintain the peace in his Land. Pastor Darko thanked the chief for his role played in the stable peace currently flourishing in Bunkpurugu.

The chief in his response thanked reverend Stephen Yaw Darko and the entire Apostolic Church for the support and symthpathy shown for the good people of Bunkpurugu. The Apostolic church is a Gods calling church, because no one will support, one who burns his own house in expecting to receive support from others to re-established their lives. Chief Alhaji Abuba appealed to Pastor Darko and his church membership to continue to pray for sustainable and forever peace in Bunkpurugu land.

Wife of Pastor Darko, Mrs. Georgina Darko advice the women to let the love for one another lead them in their daily lives , she explained that, forgiveness and tolerance were the core gift from God that every woman should possessed , hence lets all build Bunkpurugu with Tolerance and forgiveness for all .

We must help our husbands in our daily prayers for them to have understanding amongst one another, she noted

Madam Georgina Darko revealed that, her husband, Pastor Stephen Darko preaches on Lom Fm here in Bunkpurugu every morning at 5am to 6am, according to her, this is a program every peace loving person should listen too especially the women for it carries scriptures from the holy Bible which will teach us how to respect, leave together, obey Gods voice or directives and finally how to embrace everlasting peace and unity.ect

Pastor Stephen Yaw Darko, at the jamong family house explained that, this support is not discriminatory, it comes as a results of the fact that, I witnessed the last conflict here and I saw how properties and houses were burnt, I then together with the church sent a report to headquarters of the Church in Accra to indicate the fact that most of our members lost their homes and properties.

The headquarters upon receiving the information that a blood burial was performed as a symbol of unity and peace, they sent the gift or support that we are receiving today. Please it is not for Apostolic members, it is for all those who were affected during the last 2016 conflict.

Mr. Elisha Naan , who received the cash, said he stands as a spokes person on behalf of Chamba Maknyuon Libaar family head of jamong to expressed gladness to the Apostolic church of Ghana for the concern of the lives of people here in Bunkpurugu . Mr. Elisha Nana who is also the Vice Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Bunkpurugu constituency added that, their sincere gratitude goes to Pastor Stephen Darko who has made this possible with his wife Madam Georgina Darko.

Pastor Darko before offering a powerful prayer for peace and unity to continue to rain in the two families and the district at large, appealed to benevolent organization to come to the aid of the conflict victims since government alone could not shoulder the responsibility.

The donation saw the presence of the District Police Commander, ACP Delarport, District Nadmo Coordinator Mr. Wuni Sugri, Mr. Jeremiah Komonglabik (Moar Translator) and the Senior House Master of Bunkpurugu Senior High School Mr. Baryan Konmonglabik whose name we are told has been tipped amongst other names like Madam Serah Naan for consideration as new DCE for Bunkpurugu/Yunyoo District in the coming days.
28.01.2017 LISTEN

GHANA IS A COUNTRY WITH BUDGET CONSTRAINTS AND AS CITIZENS, WE MUST HOLD OURSELVES ACCOUNTABLE FOR POLITICAL OSTENTATION. IF THE NORMINEES QUALIFY TO MAKE LAWS WHY CANT THEY QUALIFY TO IMPLEMENT LAWS?

Fellow Compatriots,

Democracy is the import of Western World and ministerial vetting is a component of that political concept exported to Ghana. The deep political cleavage between the two leading political parties: The ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has infiltrated bigotry, acrimony, vilification, baseless allegations and innuendo into the politics of Ghana. Ministerial vetting, therefore, does not only present an opportune time to heal the hangovers of electoral defeat but also bring a cornucopia of euphoria for those on let us pull them down rampage. Definitely, the developments in legislature during ministerial vetting do not auger well for nation-building. The purpose of this letter is to reflect on the relevance of the parliamentary appointment committee under Ghanas Fourth Republic.

Ghanas political culture is diametrically different from that of our Western counterparts. Therefore, the imperative need to deconstruct our politics from its western frameworks must not be jettisoned. The facts that the United States Congress and the United Kingdom (UK) Parliament vet their ministers through legislative committees do not mean that Ghanaians must copy in a wholesale from them. Suffice it to say it is a political plagiarism and it ought to be avoided.

USA and UK both practiced bicameral legislature. In USA, for example, Congress is divided into two. The Upper House known as the Senate and The Lower House Known as House of Representative. It is The Senators who form the appointment committee to grill the would-be Secretaries of Departments. Ghana practices a single chamber legislature better known as unicameral Legislature. Senators are elected for a period of six years while members of parliament (MPs) in Ghana are elected for four years. This presents ipso facto that one term Senator has two years learning and training advantage over one term MP in Ghana. Is it not absurd to have first time MPs who are yet to learn parliamentary procedures to be members of the appointment committee?

Presidents normally appoint individuals who share their visions on nation-building. The appointees including the head of parliament are more often than not members of a given ruling party. Both the current Speaker of Parliament and the first deputy speaker are members of NPP. The first deputy speaker chairs the appointment committee. The Vice Chair of the committee is also a known member of the ruling party. These are the major conundrums: Who empanels some MPs to constitute the vetting committee? What is the criteria? How do we juxtapose conflict of interest with some ministerial nominees doubling as members of the appointment committee? What line can these members draw between political party loyalty and national loyalty?

The laws of Ghana are either born from the constitution or are made by parliament. Ghana laws frown upon conflict of interest. Conflict of interest refers to a strife between two or more entities (Parsa, Aramesh & Larijani, 2014). It also refers to the process of sustaining social trust and differences between breaches of ethical duty and temptation to breach duty (Brody, 2011). Conflict of interest depends on trust because of its social role (Brody, 2011). To put into perspectives, it is the discord between personal interest and professional or official duty (Source: Nana Yaw Osei, Parliamentary Appointment Committee and Conflict Of Interest, ghanaweb.com Sunday, January 15, 2017). I am not trying to impugn the work of our noble MPs, I only observe conflict of interest.

Conflict of interest is not uncommon in our national discourse. Many Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of public institutions are also members of the board that determines their salaries and other benefits. Job applicants have the right to negotiate for salaries but cannot determine their own salaries. Conflict of interest must be curbed in Ghana. Ministerial vetting is a sort of interview either structured or unstructured interviews depending on the angle. The rules of interview must therefore be applied.

Every interview almost invariably aimed at two things, namely: integrity and content. Integrity/honesty test is used to predict whether the nominee will engage in dishonest job related behaviors such as corruption, nepotism and sabotage (Levy, 2013). It could be either overt honesty test; measurement of attitude towards theft, corruption and nepotism (Levy, 2013). The personality type integrity test; an attempt to measure personality traits perceived to predict inefficiency and ineffectiveness relative to job performance (Levy, 2013). Such attitudes include emotional instability, psychological issues, dishonesty and irresponsibility (Levy, 2013). Content aspect of interview focus on the applicants knowledge and ability on the applicable subject matter.

Members of the appointment committee pay needless attention to the integrity of the nominees leaving the content of the job. I concede that personality traits have correlations on job performance. However, a standardized personality assessment inventories must be adopted to put rest to accusations and counter-accusations in parliament. I cannot really fathom how the nominees childhood name at the kindergarten and primary schools or his/her association to the alumni of University Hall of Residents could play a role at the ministry she/he is going to head.

At the US Capitol East Front on March 4, 1861, President Abraham Lincoln told Americans: In your hands, my dissatisfied fellow countrymen, and not in mine, is the momentous issue of civil war. The government will not assail you. You can have no conflict without being yourselves the aggressors. You have no oath registered in Heaven to destroy the government, while I shall have the most solemn one to "preserve, protect, and defend it." Indeed, in the hands of Ghanaians is the politics of ostentation, albeit budgets constraints. No group of individuals had sworn oath in heaven to sacrifice the development of Ghana on unholy altars of their own egocentric convenience. My good Friend in Sydney, Australia, Tahiru and I want to know if integrity test is relevant for appointees who are MPs. If an individual qualifies to make law why cant he/she qualifies to implement laws? This means that certain questions are not relevant during the vetting of the nominees.

From the foregoing analysis, it is imperative to create a bipartisan independent appointment commission to look into the vetting, emoluments and the conditions of service of would-be public office holders. Certain parts of the world even have presidential debate commission. Ghana can be pacesetters by creating a commission of Industrial/Organization psychologists, industrial sociologists, human resource experts, labor attorneys, relevant interest groups and applicable technocrats to vet the would-be ministers. This commission can work together with the Public Services Commission to determine the emoluments and the retirement package of the article 71 office holders. This will prevent the conflict of interest of every president setting up his own commissions to determine emoluments of the aforesaid office holders. Such commission must be tasked to come out with a standardized vetting criteria.

It is also clear that parliamentary vetting is not only a mere window dressing, but equally waste of precious time and resources. Where there is competition, there is nothing like fair play. The parliamentary vetting is normally used to heal the wounds of electoral defeat of minority parties. In 2013, NPP members boycotted the vetting on the grounds of electoral petition but interestingly did not boycott their swearing in. This boycott, almost invariably made the 2013 ministerial vetting pervasively rubber stumped. There will be no appropriate vetting if MPs of the same ruling party constitute the appointment committee as in 2013. Ministerial nominees have no locus standi to be part of the parliamentary appointment committee. New MPs need some training before empaneling them as members of the appointment Committee of parliament. MPs must be excluded from honesty test during vetting since they passed that same test before becoming legislators.

The momentous issue of conflict of interest in our national politics justifies the need to create an independent appointment commission. The commission will be a hiring agency on behalf of Ghanaian. It can also set guidelines for new governments regarding the number of ministers needed in the country. It is my fervent wish that the above analysis will goad you to factor the establishment of a neutral appointment commission into our political scale of preference. God Bless Our Homeland Ghana, And Make Us Cherish Fearless Honesty.

Your Fellow Compatriot

Nana Yaw Osei (Padigo), USA

[email protected]

Reference

Brody, H. (2011). Clarifying conflict of interest. American Journal of Bioethics, 11(1), 23-28. Doi:10.1080/15265161.2010.534530

Levy, P. E (2013). Industrial/Organizational psychology: Understanding the workplace (4th ed). New York, NY: Worth Publishers.

Parsa, M., Aramesh, K., & Larijani, B. (2014). A comparison between conflict of interest in Western and Islamic literatures in the realm of medicine. Journal of Medical Ethics &History of Medicine, 7(70, 1-7
As part of its efforts of providing quality healthcare to Ghanaians , a global Micro -Insurance and health pioneer company called BIMA and PEG Africa has taken a giant step by rewarding Solar customers with free insurance cover.

Briefing Journalists in Accra , the Executive Officer of PEG Africa Mr. Hugh Whalan , hinted that PEG and BIMA have already conducted a successful pilot project of providing insurance to over 2000 families.

Adding that, they will now scale the program nationwide , providing a vital financial safety net that creates an even more affordable way for Ghanaians to fund energy needs.

This exclusive hospitalization insurance product pays out for every night spent in hospital as a result of illness or injury.

More so, for peace of mind, the PEG hospitalization product is underwritten by Prudential Life, a company with 1,268 trillion USD in assets under management and 49,000 employees.

" PEGS provides financing for solar products to low -income households on a 12 month rent-to-own plan.

PEG's typical customer lives in a rural area and earns $5-$10 per day, spending up to 30% of that income on poor quality fuels such as kerosene, candles and batteries", he noted.

This he said, while these customers have little ability to purchase a solar home system for cash , the payment plan offered by PEG allows them to purchase it over time, building ownership in the asset over 12 months with daily payments of 50 cents.

One of the primary reasons that PEG's customer cease repaying their solar loan on-time is a health emergency that requires hospitalization .

"Poor consumers often have little or no savings, and an expected emergency or health issue can mean they spend the following months living hand -to-mouth .

Rising this challenge, PEG worked with BIMA to create a unique insurance product that is specifically tailored to the kinds of emergency situations by a poor rural household ", he explained.

According to him, has worked hard to design a product around the needs of their customers and the results from the pilot are very positive.

"We are excited to be the forefront of our industry , being the first player to provide these kinds of value -added services to rural consumers.

With this cover, customers have the security of knowing that unexpected healthcare costs won't limit their ability to access life-changing solar power", he said.

According to him , PEG is a leading pay-as-you- go financing company in West Africa, operating in Ghana and Ivory Coast that provides credit for useful and productive assets to off-grid customers.

The Country Manager at BIMA Mr. Russell Haresign , noted that PEG hospitalization product means that a period of illness or injury should not prevent the family from paying for the services since it needs to succeed.

We are very proud to work with PEG, creating an innovative solution that tackles a business challenge whilst creating real value for customers.

According to him, BIMA uses mobile technology to deliver affordable insurance and health products to low-income consumers in emerging markets and families cannot access these vital services through traditional channels .

By: Isaac Kofi Dzokpo/NewsGhana.com.Gh
The age of reason

We are all born unique. That is the very beauty of being human. While that is true, it is also equally natural that we gravitate towards others who are like uswhether that be based of colour, nationality, class, culture or upbringing.
- Apostle Johnson Suleman has slowed down on his media engagements

- The founder of Omega Fire Ministries Worldwide might have been shaken by a recent attempt to arrest him

- The Department of State Security (DSS) move to arrest the cleric was foiled by Governor Ayo Fayose of Ekiti state

Apostle Johnson has slowed down on his media engagements after his the botched arrest of the cleric by the DSS.

Apostle Johnson Suleman

A report by Daily Trust indicates that the founder of Omega Fire Ministries Worldwide might have taken a break from press engagements due to the issue.

A request by the newspaper to speak to the cleric on the issue was rebuffed with a text message which read: Im sorry, Im under instruction not to grant interview till further notice. Thanks for the thought.

Efforts to speak with members of his family as well, was prevented by the tight security around them.

READ ALSO: Apostle Suleiman's arrest! This man is not above the law" - Nigerians react

Residents of Auchi, the town were Apostle Suleman's church is located reacted to the controversial which has dominated the media this past week.

Abu Ibrahim, an Okada rider, said Auchi and environs are not known for religious crisis and violence, but with Sulemans comment, that could change.

His words: He is a religious leader whose inciting comment can lead to breach of peace, as his followers believe in his words. Security agents should not overlook it.

On his part, Jude Elvis believes that Apostle Suleman was only defending Christians, adding that government has abandoned Christians to their fate.

''Theyve been killing Christians in Southern Kaduna and government has done nothing. Apostle Suleman spoke his mind and attempting to arrest him based on that is wrong and might cause problems,'' he said.

Another resident who gave his name as John, however said he feels religious leaders should be mindful of their utterances.

He said: Christianity is a religion of peace and Auchi people are peaceful people, and that must be sustained. And for that to be sustained, the activities of Fulani herdsmen, especially the troublesome ones, must be checked by security agencies.''

READ ALSO: Apostle Suleman insists Christians must defend themselves

Meanwhile, some Nigerians living in the United Kingdom recently staged a protest at the Nigerian High Commission in the country over the attempt to arrest Apostle Suleman.

Source: Legit.ng
- A Rivers state High court has acquitted 5 suspects in the Aluu killing

- The killing that happened about 5 years ago is still being investigated

- The traditional ruler of the community was among those acquitted

ALUU 4

A Rivers state High Court sitting in Port Harcourt has discharged Alhaji Hassan Welewa a traditional ruler and four other people out of the 12 persons standing trial for the murder of the Aluu 4.

Recall, that the Aluu 4 killing happened on October 5, 2012, when four undergraduates of the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) were killed by a mob in Aluu community, Ikwerre local government area, Rivers state.

12 people were arrested for the dastardly act and placed on trial. On Thursday, January 26, the court delivered its judgement.

The trial judge, Justice Letan Nyordee, discharged and acquitted Lawal Segun, Okoghiroh Endurance, Ozioma Abajuo, Chigozie Evans Samuel and the traditional ruler in Aluu community, Alhaji Welewa.

READ ALSO: UNIPORT lecturer kidnapped by gunmen

According to Punch, the suspects were allowed to go after the director of public prosecution filed a submission of no case for them, saying they were not involved.

However, the remaining seven accused persons are still facing trial, and the case was adjourned till February 9, 2017.

The acquitted traditional ruler of Omuokiri, Aluu community, Welewa, described the court ruling as an act of God.

He went on to say that the judgment was a true justice, noting that he never had a hand in the murder of the four students.

Sadly, jungle justice is common in Nigeria. This is the 21st century but many cities in Nigeria still engage in it.

Almost every week, you must hear at least a story of how people were lynched for stealing or committing one crime or the other and this excludes the ones that go unreported.

Source: Legit.ng
- Following his successful return, the Gambia new president, Adama Barrow, has been advised by security operatives to stay away from government house until his security can be guaranteed

- There has been earlier indication that former president, Yahya Jammeh may have set alleged trap in the state house for new president

New Gambia President, Adama Barrow has been advised by security operatives to run the affair of the state from his private home.

According to Al -Jazeera, the reason for this is for security operatives to ascertain that the state house which accommodated former Gambia dictator, Yahya Jammeh, has no potential danger for the new president.

President Adama Barrow advised to stay away from state house for security reason

Adama returned to Gambia from Senegal to take over the ruling the state by 4p.m. on Thursday, January 26, after his predecessor Yahaya Jammeh stepped down.

READ ALSO: Buhari is surrounded by those ruining his government - Professor Sonaiya

Troops of the Economic Council of West African States (ECOWAS) in The Gambia have earlier reported a large cache of sophisticated arms and ammunition missing from State House in Banjul, the capital.

According to a Gambian newspaper The Point, troops also found that all the air conditioners were loaded with a toxic chemical, which was meant to poison the occupants of any of the rooms.

The deadly chemicals in air conditions and offices were allegedly planted by former President Yahya Jammeh to kill the incoming government led by President Adama Barrow.

The paper added that state guards officers who were there until Sunday morning are currently being questioned by ECOWAS military officers.

READ ALSO: PDP attacks Okorocha over Imo Airline and 2019 election

Meanwhile, Tibou Kamara, a former government minister from Guinea, and one of the first negotiators sent in to convince former Gambia president, Yahya Jammeh to give up power has come out to say how the former dictator was convinced to leave Gambia for new President, Adama Barrow.

Kamara said in an interview said: It was not easy, because against the determination of the international community, there was a fierce resolve to defend what he (Jammeh) saw as law, truth and justice, but especially the independence and sovereignty of his country.

Source: Legit.ng
The forgotten era

When thinking of classic Nepali architecture, it is usually the detailed wood carvings and brick temples of the Newar architectural style, which comes to mind.
- Following the signing of executive order banning Muslims from 7 Islamic countries from entering United States, reports indicate that Muslims travelling to the US are being prevented by border control

- Several prominent Americans like Mark Zuckerberg has kicked against the order to send Muslims immigrant away from America

American President, Donald Trump signed an executive order closing US borders to all refugees for a period of at least four months and temporarily banning all travellers from half a dozen countries, regardless of whether they have already been issued visas, on Friday evening.

According to The Telegraph, while signing the order, Trump said: "We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas.

"We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people."

US immigration begins preventing Muslims from entering United States

Trump has received several backlashes from prominent Americans including Facebook founder, Mark Zuckerberg, over his order to ban Muslims immigrants from entering America.

There were immediate reports of travellers who had been issued visas for travel being turned away or told not to board flights because of the ban.

Mohammed Al Rawi, a graduate of California State University and former journalist with the Los Angeles Times, said his father had been hauled off a flight in Qatar as a direct result of Mr Trump's decision.

Al Rawi wrote on Facebook that: "My 71 year old dad is in Qatar boarding LAX flight to come visit us and and he's being sent back to Iraq. Some US official told him that Trump canceled all visas."

Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of Facebook, wrote in a post on Saturday that he was "concerned" about the impact of the orders and that he would be working with Fwd.US, a charity he supports, to develop protections for child immigrants brought to the US at a young age by their parents.

Zuckerberg wrote on his Facebook wall: My great grandparents came from Germany, Austria and Poland. Priscilla's parents were refugees from China and Vietnam. The United States is a nation of immigrants, and we should be proud of that.

Like many of you, I'm concerned about the impact of the recent executive orders signed by President Trump.

We need to keep this country safe, but we should do that by focusing on people who actually pose a threat. Expanding the focus of law enforcement beyond people who are real threats would make all Americans less safe by diverting resources, while millions of undocumented folks who don't pose a threat will live in fear of deportation.

We should also keep our doors open to refugees and those who need help. That's who we are. Had we turned away refugees a few decades ago, Priscilla's family wouldn't be here today.

READ ALSO: Obasanjo drums support for Igbos to contest for presidency in 2019

Meanwhile, former US Secretary of State, Madeleine Albright, has vowed to convert to Muslim if Trump should go ahead to create an Islamic database and ban Muslim migrants from entering the country.

Albright who is the first female Secretary of State under the administration of former President Bill Clinton tweeted on Wednesday, January 26 that: "I was raised Catholic, became Episcopalian & found out later my family was Jewish.

Source: Legit.ng
January for Nigerians has been full of deaths. While it is true that people die daily, the deaths recorded below occurred on a scale that affected the country as a whole.

Bomb explosion in Nigeria

How did Nigeria lose 500 citizens in the 27 days of January so far?

On January 1, 2017 three persons were killed when a truck belonging to a major cement company crushed two commercial motorcyclists at Ido-Ekiti in Ido/Osi local council of Ekiti state.

At a drinking bar in Enugu on January 3, a man named Onyekachi Omego killed another man named Ohabuike.

According to Vanguard, five people from Abraka and Obiarukwu both in Ethiope East and Ukwani local government areas of Delta state, were reportedly killed during a clash between farmers and suspected Fulani herdsmen along the boundary of the neighbouring communities.

The constant fighting between herdsmen and farmers led to the death of five farmers in separate attacks on two communities in Delta state by suspected Fulani herdsmen.

READ ALSO: Many die as Nigerian troops clash with Boko Haram

On January 5, 2017, three people, including a Ghanaian, were killed in a renewed hostility between Aiye Confraternity and Eiye Confraternity cult groups in Sango area of Ogun state.

During a shoot-out between invaders and local youths in Isaba, Warri, Delta state, on January 6 36-year old applicant, Mr. Gabriel Sibe, was killed and one person was declared missing.

At Idepe in Okitipupa, Ondo state, a man killed his 86-year old father. Boko Haram cut off the heads of 15 people in a bush between Gubio and Mobbar in Borno state.

A 24-year old man man was killed by cultists at Igbe Kapo, Ikorodu, Lagos. When the police and some youths in Tsonje, a community near Kagoro, Kaduna state engaged some terrorists on a 24 hour gun battle, two people died.

On January 8, Boko Haram insurgents killed five soldiers during an attack at the Bunu/Yadi military post, Gujba, near Sambisa forest.

Three days later on January 8, five people were killed by herdsmen in Abraka, Delta state and the rampage of the herdsmen continued as five policemen and two civilians died in an attack in Demsa lga, Adamawa state.

The Gideon Dadi and Kurlai communities clashed with armed herdsmen in a skirmish that left more than 40 persons dead.

READ ALSO: IDP Camps: How People Survive Every Day (PHOTOS)

In Bayelsa state, a housewife killed her husband, Leo Parker, at Ekeki, Yenogoa, over a Christmas rice disagreement that deteriorated.

A pastor with Foundation Faith Church and a lecturer at the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Professor Gabriel Okayi, was killed by gunmen.

In Onicha village, Enugu-Ezike, Igboeze, Enugu state a feud between brothers turned deadly as a man, Leonard Mba killed his brother, Cletus.

When an Air force jet accidentally bombed an IDP camp in Rann, Borno State, instead of Boko Haram militants, conflicting number of aid workers and civilians said to over 100 were killed and a host of others injured.

The litany of deaths has been endless in January. However, been security conscious can go a very long away in preserving lives.

Legit.ng has a step by step guide to being more security conscious this year.

Source: Legit.ng
Reverend Father Joseph Oghenekevwe Ojakorotu, a Catholic priest in charge of the St Patricks Catholic Church, Eku, Ethiope-East local government area of Delta state, has been abducted.

The victim was reportedly kidnapped along the Sapele-Eku road in Sapele as he was returning from a journey to Eku on Friday, according to a report by The Punch.

The gunmen were said to have dragged the Catholic priest out of his car to an unknown location

The report said the abductors are demanding for N10 million as ransom for the priest.

Some of the parishioners reportedly confirmed the incident and said it happened along the bad portion of the road which has become a spot for kidnappers.

READ ALSO: BREAKING: Police arrest mastermind behind Turkish school kidnap (UPDATED)

The kidnappers are demanding a N10 million ransom for his release. He was whisked away from his vehicle yesterday (Friday).

"The kidnappers allegedly established contact with some of the parishioners insisting the N10m must be paid before he will be released, a member of the church reportedly said.

Confirming the abduction, the spokesperson of the Nigeria Police Force in Delta stat, DSP Andrew Aniamaka, said efforts are on to rescue the victim.

I can assure you that we shall not let these criminals succeed in the state. We have already dispatched our operatives to the area to ensure that the Catholic Father is rescued unhurt.

READ ALSO: Bizarre! This woman, 44, kidnaps colleague, strips to rant about God

We shall surely also arrest the perpetrators to face the law. Crime doesnt thrive in Delta, he said.

Source: Legit.ng
The pro-Biafra agitators are determined to make their agitation come through. Proponents of the agitation, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) are hell-bent on actualizing their goal undermining what the agitation may cost them.

This is why irrespective of the deaths being recorded following their agitation, the agitators, made up of majorly youths, are never perturbed. Rather, the groups are waxing stronger and getting more energy to push on.

The agitators are of the view that no matter the time it takes and the energy spent, their dream of an independent state of Biafra must be actualized.

To this end and prior to the pronouncement of independence, the agitators have carved out states and provinces which they deem are part of the Biafra Republic.

Nnamdi Kanu after a court hearing session in Abuja

Although it is believed that some of the areas carved into the Biafra map are not Igbo speaking, the agitators gave reasons for including the areas into the map.

According to the map, Abia, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bayelsa, Cross Rivers, Delta, Ebonyi, Enugu, Imo, Rivers states, Igbanke area of in Edo state, Igala in Kogi state and Idoma area of Benue state have been carved out as the territory of the yet to actualise Biafra republic.

READ ALSO: Nnamdi Kanus trial: Court shields witnesses with screen-guard

The agitators have argued that the map was drawn based on the understanding that Biafra is not only for Igbo speaking people, insisting that it was drawn out of the old eastern state.

The map is divided into 25 provinces beginning with Agbor, Asaba, Aba, Owerri, Umuahia, Orlu, Ikot Ekpene, Uyo, Eket, Ogoja, Calabar, Enugu, Orji River, Awka, Onitsha, Nnewi, Okigwe, Annang, Abakaliki, Yenagoa, Warri, Ahoada, Ughelli, Degema and Port Harcourt. These 25 provinces as they fell they should be called make up the Biafra republic to soon be declared.

Some Biafra agitators in Delta who spoke with our correspondent argued that the agitation for Biafra will not be dropped for any reason, irrespective of the pressure from the federal government. They say no matter the hard stance of President Muhammadu Buhari, Biafra must be actualized.

Nnamdi Kanu and his colleagues in handcuffs

Amobi Egbune, an indigene of Abia state, said Biafra is a realizable goal. He said it is an outcome of marginalization from the Nigerian government, adding that with the weight the agitation is building, one does not need to be told that Biafra is achievable.

He said, the hard stance of the federal government cannot hinder the actualization of the movement. This, according to him, is because the federal government cannot dictate to the African Union, the European Union and the United Nations. He said these bodies will be the determining factors when the ships are down.

READ ALSO: Biafra: IPOB, Ohaneze Ndigbo reject President Buharis advise

His support for Biafra, he said is because there is no justice and equity in Nigeria.

For the map covering other areas that are not Igbo speaking states, he said Biafra is not an Igbo speaking concept. According to him, it is an umbrella that holds people with common goal and objective. It cuts across difference geographical divides, breaking religious barriers and gathering together a people of the same view with a common destiny.

On the issue of consulting the people of other zones before drawing the map, he said everybody in the area drawn is aware. He also said the Urhobos in Delta are fully aware, noting that they are part and parcel of that marginalization of the federal of the federal government.

Pro Biafra agitators durig one of their protests

On Delta state governments decision not to join Biafra, he said it is politics the state is playing, maintaining that every government definitely must sub pedal on their support for the agitation for Biafra. This is so because the oath taken by governors during their swearing in is to protect the constitution of the nation, hence they cannot support publicly the dissolution of the Nigerian state.

He, however, said no government will sit down and see their people being marginalized and will not support the salvation of their people but since they are in government, they must diplomatically support the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

READ ALSO: IPOB launches Operation David Dance

His argument may not be far from the truth. A senior official in the Delta state government, who would not want to be named confided in Legit.ng that it will pay the people of Delta more to join Biafra than remaining with the government of Nigeria.

He said the name Biafra does not refer to the Igbo speaking alone, thereby supporting the view that Biafra is all encompassing word for all marginalized people in Nigeria. He told our correspondent to remain in Nigeria as he is ready to key into the Biafra agitation.

Emma Okocha, authorn of Blood on the Niger, and an indigene of Asaba, also toed the views of the agitators. He said it will be difficult for the present minority to survive in the larger Nigerian state if a bigger minority goes without the people of Delta keying into the movement.

Although he cannot personally make decision for the people of Delta, he called for a high profile stakeholders discussion and consultation so that the people do not cry when the Biafra people finally breakaway from the Nigeria state.

Nnamdi Kanu's ;awyers addressing journalists after one of the court sessions

A Criminologist, Ekene Aboh, an indigene of Imo state but resident in Delta, said Biafra is a group of people with a common goal and ideology, hence the map drawn covers people who have one mind and one objective.

On the possibility of achieving the objective, he said: Are you not seeing the handwriting on the wall? The Biafrans are saying that they are in Nigeria but not of Nigeria. They have been marginalized for many years and that cannot continue.

He added that with the growing movement, it will not be long for the dream to come to reality. He said it will not be actualized by war or violence. As it is now, he continued, the marriage between Nigeria and the people of Biafra is no longer working and its time the Biafrans walked out of it.

He said the Ibos are no more comfortable with the marriage, the best option is to conduct a referendum and let the people decide where they are going.

READ ALSO: Obasanjo calls on southeast zone to unite

He added that the Biafra nation has existed before the amalgamation of Nigeria by Lord Lugard in 1914, noting that there will be more unity and oneness if the Biafrans stay on their own.

He argued that for long, Biafrans have been taken as slaves and we cannot continue to be slaves for the government of Nigeria.

He said although the federal government is against the Biafra creation, the government of President Muhammadu Buhari will go and another government will come, noting that no matter what happens, Biafra must be actualized.

He asked: What do you actually expect the President to say, no government would want his country to break. As a President, Buhari cannot say that. If I were to be president, what he is saying is what I will say. You dont expect him say otherwise, if he says Biafra should go, then he is not the President of Nigeria.

He told Legit.ng that the map of Biafra was drawn according to the old eastern Nigeria but added that: You cant limit Biafra to eastern Nigeria only. There is nothing like south south and south east. It is all Biafra. The Biafrans know their territory, so that is not a problem.

Source: Legit.ng
Tika R Pradhan is a senior political correspondent for the Post, covering politics, parliament, judiciary and social affairs. Pradhan joined the Post in 2016 after working at The Himalayan Times for more than a decade.
ORAN, Algeria  Algeria is indeed a country of the Arab world: a de facto dictatorship with Islamists, oil, a vast desert, a few camels and soldiers, and women who suffer. But it also stands apart: It is the only Arab republic untouched by the Arab Spring of 2010-2011. Amid the disasters routinely visited upon the region, Algeria is an exception. Immobile and invisible, it doesnt change and keeps a low profile.

This is largely because Algeria already had its Arab Spring in 1988, and it has yet to recover. The experience left Algerians with a deep fear of instability, which the regime of President Abdelaziz Bouteflika, in power since 1999, has exploited, along with the countrys oil wealth, to control its people  all the while deploying impressive ruses to hide Algeria from the worlds view.

October 1988: Thousands of young Algerians hit the streets to protest the National Liberation Front (F.L.N.), the dominant party born of the war for independence; the absence of presidential term limits; a mismanaged socialist economy; and a tyrannical secret service. The uprising is suppressed with bloodshed and torture. The single-party system nonetheless has to take a step back: Pluralism is introduced; reforms are announced.

The Islamists came out ahead in the first free elections in 1990, and again in the 1991 legislative elections  only to be foiled by the military in January 1992. Long before Gen. Abdel Fattah el-Sisi in Egypt, Algeria had invented the concept of therapeutic coup detat, of coup as cure for Islamism. At the time, the militarys intervention did not go over well, at least not with the West: This was before 9/11, and the world did not yet understand the Islamist threat. In Algeria, however, Islamism was already perceived as an unprecedented danger. After the coup followed a decade of civil war, which left as many as 200,000 people dead and a million displaced, not to mention all those who disappeared.
GIURGIULESTI, Moldova  Like many rural villages throughout Europe, Giurgiulesti was shrinking. The young had left, seeking work and better futures, and they never came back. The old had stayed behind, tilling the fields and nurturing the grapes on backyard vines that they used to make wine.

But these days, cars and trucks rumble through this traditional village of about 3,000 on their way toward the Danube River and an unlikely thriving port. Sitting in her office in the center of the village, Tatiana Galateanu, 53, the mayor of Giurgiulesti, said that all the commotion had created a bit of a problem.

The houses here are very old, Ms. Galateanu said, so they are affected by the heavy traffic and big trucks using the road.

Yet it is a problem she is happy for the village to have. With half of the ports 460 employees, including Ms. Galateanus son, coming from the village, it has rejuvenated a place that time had forgotten. It has a big importance here, she said.
HAJJA, Yemen  The airstrike slammed into Al-Sham water-bottling plant at the end of the night shift, killing 13 workers who were minutes away from heading home.

Standing among the strewn bottles, smoldering boxes and pulverized machines a few days after the airstrike here, the owner, Ibrahim al-Razoom, searched in vain for any possible reason that warplanes from a Saudi-led military coalition would have attacked the place.

Nothing in the ruins suggested the factory was used for making bombs, as a coalition spokesman had claimed. And it was far from any military facility that would explain the strike as a tragic mistake: For miles around, there was nothing but desert scrub.

It never occurred to me that this would be hit, Mr. Razoom said.

Of the many perils Yemens civilians have faced during the last six months of war, with starvation looming and their cities crumbling under heavy weapons, none have been as deadly as the coalition airstrikes. What began as a Saudi-led aerial campaign against the Houthis, the rebel militia movement that forced Yemens government from power, has become so broad and vicious that critics accuse the coalition of collectively punishing people living in areas under Houthi control.
Kobe Desramaults may have earned cult-chef status and a Michelin star with his middle-of-nowhere restaurant In de Wulf (which he plans to close in December 2016), but by the Belgian chefs own admission, Im a pretty lousy baker.

Which explains why he enlisted the skills of Sarah Lemke, a Michigan native trained in artisanal bread-making. She first journeyed to the Flemish countryside for a temporary stint, where she developed In de Wulfs bread program and ignited Mr. Desramaultss excitement for naturally leavened bread made with stone-milled local grains. Soon a bigger plan was being hatched.

He said, Why dont you come back to Belgium and well do this project to bring the craft of real bread back,  Ms. Lemke recalled. We didnt really set out with this clear-cut idea. We knew we wanted to build an oven and make really good bread.

The result is De Superette, a bakery and restaurant that opened in 2014 in an old neighborhood grocery in Ghent. A giant wood-fired oven, which Ms. Lemke helped build, is the cornerstone of the convivial space, but De Superette evolved into much more than a loaf shop. A third partner, Rose Greene, the chef de cuisine at In de Wulf at the time, took charge of lunch, brunch and dinner, creating locally sourced menus that are also reasonably priced.
The Italian authorities identified the man as Medhanie Yehdego Mered, 35, though the information could not be independently confirmed. Mr. Mered, they said, was seized in Khartoum, the capital of Sudan, on May 24, and flown to Rome on Tuesday night.

Image Medhanie Yehdego Mered is taken into custody by Italian police after being extradited from Sudan, accused of smuggling migrants into Europe. Credit... Italian National Police

But after the arrest was reported on Wednesday, an Eritrean activist and journalist who hosts a weekly radio program in Stockholm, as well as an article in The Guardian, raised doubts about the identity of the man in custody.

In a telephone interview, the activist, Meron Estefanos, said she had been following the activities of Mr. Mered since 2010.

When I saw the news this morning that the most wanted smuggler had been extradited, I was happy, she said. But after video clips of the man in custody began circulating, she began receiving telephone calls  from refugees who said they had been smuggled by Mr. Mered, and people who said they were friends and relatives of the man who had been extradited. All said that the Italians had the wrong man.

I hope that the Italians admit that they have the wrong person and that they release the person immediately, Ms. Estefanos said. This is absurd.
Norway is pondering an unusual birthday gift for its neighbor Finland: an Arctic mountain peak.

Mount Halti is the highest mountain in Finland, but its 4,478-foot summit is in Norway.

To help commemorate the 100th anniversary of Finlands declaration of independence from Russia on Dec. 6, 1917, a group of Norwegians is urging the government to move a point on its border with Finland some 490 feet to the north and 650 feet to the east. Haltis peak would become the highest point in Finland, surpassing a spur of the mountain that tops out at 4,344 feet.

There are a few formal difficulties, and I have not yet made my final decision, Norways prime minister, Erna Solberg, told the national broadcaster NRK this week. But we are looking into it.

The proposed gift is the brainchild of Bjorn Geirr Harsson, a 76-year-old retired employee of the Norwegian Mapping Authority, who came up with the idea in 1972, when he was taking measurements while flying across the border.
That conflict also dovetailed with a civil war in Laos.

Beginning in the late 1940s, early 1950s, the Pathet Lao, the Communists, were drawing most of their young leaders from students studying in Hanoi  like the most famous president, Kaysone Phomvihane  and after the 1954 conflict at Dien Bien Phu, where France lost and agreed to independence for their Indochinese holdings. So the Pathet Lao held these two provinces in the northeast along Vietnam: Houaphan and Phongsaly. These were the Pathet Lao provinces, and then you had the royalists, the U.S.-backed government, holding the Mekong Valley and other provinces. From there, the Pathet Lao, backed by the Vietnamese Communists, basically sought to move Laos into a Communist sphere of influence.

What does President Obamas coming visit mean for Laos?

For the government, I think its an important visit. My interpretation is that the Lao government also wants to maintain close connections with Western countries. There seems to be some evidence that the recent party congress in January 2016 represented a bit of a shift away from closer connections with China and back towards Vietnam.

Id be cautious of oversimplifying that; I think Laos in fact tries to maintain connections with all of the different powers, so Laos would have a complex approach to those questions, not simply pivoting from one to the other in an either-or fashion. But part of that is Laos also tries to maintain close connections with countries like Japan, which is still the largest donor in the country, and with Western countries. So in that sense I think Laos would be interested in what a U.S. role in Southeast Asia could look like.

Its a little bit interesting compared to Cambodia, which is seen as being much more closely connected to China. Its evident in Cambodias approach to the South China Sea, where theyve really been the most belligerent state in terms of blocking resolutions from Asean on the South China Sea. Laos is in a difficult position on this issue  clearly they cant afford to completely alienate China, but theyre taking a bit of a different approach than Cambodia, is my sense. Laos is still trying to argue for resolutions coming out of Asean on the South China Sea, even if they might be very watered-down resolutions.

The Vietnam War  the bombing, specifically  took a huge toll on Laos, and leftover bombs are still killing people in the Laotian countryside. How might Obamas presence in the country, or whatever he might say there, affect that issue of unexploded ordnance, or UXO?

It might be a bit less what he says and more the increased amount of aid that could go into UXO removal. It is still a pretty significant issue in many areas of the countryside. In the places where I work and do fieldwork, there are some companies that are doing UXO clearance. But theres still a huge amount of land area affected by this, so I think increased U.S. support for UXO clearance would also be quite welcome.
WASHINGTON  Kim Jong-un is headed to the moon.

That, at least, is one of the official North Korean explanations for the testing last week of a rocket engine that, if as powerful as the North claims, would rival the commercial rockets that Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk, of Amazon and Tesla, now use in their aerospace companies to fire payloads into space.

Inside the United States intelligence agencies, though, there is considerable skepticism that North Korea is truly eager to plant a flag on the lunar landscape. The agencies are exploring another explanation: that Mr. Kim, the North Korean leader, is racing ahead, as the United States is distracted by a bruising presidential election, to develop a way for his growing arsenal of nuclear weapons to reach New York and Washington.

The North may not be working alone. An intelligence finding that the United States quietly made public in January suggests that the development of the Norths big engine, which it claims produces 80 tons of thrust, may be part of a joint partnership with Iran. A Treasury Department announcement of sanctions against Iranian officials and engineers named two who had traveled to North Korea to work on an 80-ton rocket booster being developed by the North Korean government.

The Obama administration has responded to North Koreas nuclear and missile tests with gradually escalating sanctions, mostly through the United Nations. But on Monday it went a step farther, announcing criminal charges and Treasury Department sanctions against four Chinese individuals and a company that it said engaged in money laundering to help the Norths programs for weapons of mass destruction.
As access and information to cut-off areas of Haiti increase after the hurricane, the news only gets worse. The death toll has climbed to nearly 900 people, while an outbreak of cholera in three southern towns has killed 13 people and infected 62 others, health officials said.

For now, though, there is no way to know the precise toll of the storm. There are still 500,000 people stranded in the south alone, officials said, because of extensive damage to an already feeble infrastructure. More than 170 people have been reported dead in Les Anglais, which for now is accessible only by helicopter.

Just as the impoverished island nation, bereft of resources and capacity, struggled to prepare for the storm, the recovery has been hampered by the same shortcomings. And communications have been scattered. Although news outlets are reporting nearly 900 dead, the government has for two days insisted on a figure less than half of that.

That gap is partly the result of how the deaths are reported. The government is counting only those it can verify, a formal process that cannot be completed until access to areas cut off by the storm is restored. But in towns like Port-Salut, many have already buried their dead or stopped searching for loved ones carried away in the storm surge.

Honestly, we dont even know how many died, said Sanite Moise, seated with a group of women washing clothes in a shallow flood pool. Small children bathed in the murky water.
What It Is

KauaiEclectic is a collection of observations, images and writings about Kauai  Kamawaelualanimoku  and the world as seen, felt, experienced and interpreted by me.
AMMAN, Jordan  The Islamic State claimed responsibility on Tuesday for a terrorist attack in the southern Jordanian city of Karak that killed 10 people, including the head of the militarys special forces, according to an organization that monitors militant groups.

As the authorities continued their investigation into the attack on Sunday, three gendarmes and a police officer were shot and killed in Karak as Jordanian security forces conducted raids, a spokesman for the Jordanian Public Security Department said.

In the statement released by the Islamic State, according to the SITE Intelligence Group, the militants said four fighters, by virtue of God alone and described as caliphate soldiers, carried out the attack on Sunday using automatic weapons and hand grenades.

Seven Jordanian security officers, a Canadian tourist and two Jordanian civilians were killed, and four attackers also died in the clashes. The assault began at a house where the gunmen were staying. They then fled and attacked a police station, before moving on to Karaks ancient crusader castle, a popular tourist destination in the city.
Changes to U.S. immigration policies that restrain the flow of technical and professional talent may inhibit our ability to adequately staff our research and development efforts, the company said in the filing.

Brad Smith, Microsofts president, said in a statement that the company believes in a strong and balanced high-skilled immigration system and in broader immigration opportunities for talented and law-abiding young people like the Dreamers, a reference to young people who entered the country illegally as children but were allowed to remain by President Barack Obama.

On Friday, Mark Zuckerberg, the chief executive of Facebook, waded into the broader immigration debate with a post in which he said he was concerned about Mr. Trumps actions. Mr. Zuckerberg said his great-grandparents came from Germany, Austria and Poland, while his wifes arrived from China and Vietnam.

We are a nation of immigrants, and we all benefit when the best and brightest from around the world can live, work and contribute here, Mr. Zuckerberg wrote. I hope we find the courage and compassion to bring people together and make this world a better place for everyone.

The technology industry is open to changes that have been proposed by members of Congress to better enforce the skilled worker program and adjust limits on the number of visas. But the companies see skilled worker visas as a signature policy issue that they have fought to protect and expand.

They fear Jeff Sessions, the nominee for attorney general, and others in the administration will take a more severe approach to immigration and sweep up H-1B visas into prohibitions on refugees and stronger border protection.

The effect would end up being exactly the opposite of what Trump wants. Companies would go offshore like Microsoft did with Vancouver, Canada to seek talent, said Robert D. Atkinson, president of the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation, a research group sponsored by several tech firms.
In a 1979 BBC mini-series, he was Dostoyevskys Raskolnikov, the brooding, conscience-stricken killer in Crime and Punishment. And in Michael Radfords 1984 adaptation of George Orwells dystopian classic 1984, he was Winston Smith, the protagonist. Mr. Hurts pallor, fearful expression and prominent ears made him an especially feral and unromantic rebel.

His countenance is fishy and bizarre, Cintra Wilson wrote in Salon in 2004. He has dark, verminous little eyes, a smirky little mouth full of nicotine-varnished teeth, and that British complexion that evokes a poached worm. Even in his early films, he has eye bags and looks like he put on a face that was at the very bottom of his laundry basket. His body, when it isnt a little overindulged around the abdomen, is scrawny. He has never, in any role, looked particularly masculine. The characters he plays are generally weak, immoral, murderous, slimy or insane. Yet to gaze upon John Hurt, in almost any role, is to feel a drooly adoration; he is irresistible.

Frequently cast in fantasy films as a credibly real character, Mr. Hurt could be kindly or cruel. He was the wand expert, Mr. Ollivander, in several Harry Potter films, and the fuhrer-like dictator of a barely familiar England in the futuristic V for Vendetta (2005).

Mr. Hurt slipped so easily into makeup that it often seemed a form of disguise. Professorially bearded with a Brillo pad of silver hair, he was almost unrecognizable as Trevor Bruttenholm, the British paranormal expert who discovers the young title demon in the sci-fi thriller Hellboy (2004).
A county prosecutors office assigned to investigate a misconduct case against Gov. Chris Christie of New Jersey over the lane closings on the George Washington Bridge in 2013 will not pursue charges.

The reason is simple but compelling  that charge cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt, said the Bergen County prosecutors office, which is led by Gurbir S. Grewal.

Mr. Christie, who appointed Mr. Grewal, hailed the decision.

The governor is gratified that the Bergen County prosecutors office has ended this baseless fiasco, Mr. Christies office said in a statement. It is right and appropriate that this injustice against the governor is finally over.

William J. Brennan, a retired firefighter and activist from Teaneck, N.J., who filed the case against Mr. Christie under a rule that allows citizens to bring criminal complaints, said he did not believe the case was over. He said he still believed there was enough evidence to prosecute Mr. Christie, and he released a copy of a letter he had sent a judge this week requesting the appointment of a special prosecutor.
Two men were accused on Friday of bilking millions of dollars from investors with a Ponzi scheme built on a false promise to buy and resell tickets to high-profile events like the Broadway musical Hamilton, the federal authorities said.

The Securities and Exchange Commission, in a complaint filed in Federal District Court for the Southern District of New York, said the men, Joseph Meli and Matthew Harriton, had raised about $81 million from at least 125 investors in 13 states who were told their money was being pooled to buy large blocks of tickets to be resold for a profit.

Instead, the complaint says, Mr. Meli and Mr. Harriton used about $51 million of the money raised to repay investors, perpetuating the illusion of a profitable, ongoing investment.

Mr. Meli, 42, and Mr. Harriton, 52, also used the scheme to enrich themselves, the S.E.C. said in a news release, spending almost $2 million on personal expenses, including jewelry, private school and camp tuition and casino payments.
You try to build security around the challenges that you have, and you have to take into account the things that are around there, and you try to do a lot of preparation  and keep in mind that people live there, people work there and people have business there, said Mark J. Sullivan, who was director of the Secret Service from 2006 to 2013. You try and accomplish an awful lot, but the No. 1 priority for the Secret Service is that you keep him and his family safe.

When the president is in town, one or more of the lanes of Fifth Avenue that run past the tower will be shut down, a law enforcement official said, and in extreme cases the street could be shut entirely as it was briefly in December because of a suspicious package. It would have to be something imminent, or very serious, said the official, who declined to be identified speaking about security plans.

For now, the only restriction is along 56th Street, where the lane closest to Trump tower is shut to traffic. The security footprint around the building was the result of discussions between city agencies and the Secret Service, which initially suggested a much wider perimeter that could have encompassed several avenues, according to Polly Trottenberg, the citys transportation commissioner.

Even so, travel times on 57th Street  a major east-west route across Manhattan  near Fifth Avenue have increased 20 percent since the November election, the department said, though traffic on Fifth Avenue south of Trump tower has improved, suggesting that drivers are avoiding the area. The perimeter is likely to expand when Mr. Trump is home, the law enforcement official said.
President Trumps executive order suspending the entire resettlement program for 120 days and banning indefinitely the arrival of Syrian refugees is a repudiation of fundamental American values, an abandonment of the United States role as a humanitarian leader and, far from protecting the country from extremism, a propaganda gift to those who would plot harm to America.

The order also cuts the number of refugees scheduled for resettlement in the United States in the fiscal year 2017 from a planned total of about 110,000 to just 50,000. Founded on the myth that there is no proper security screening for refugees, the order thus thrusts into limbo an estimated 60,000 vulnerable refugees, most of whom have already been vetted and cleared for resettlement here. The new policy urgently needs rethinking.

Refugees coming to the United States are fleeing the same violent extremism that this country and its allies are fighting in the Middle East and elsewhere. Based on recent data, a majority of those selected for resettlement in America are women and children. Since the start of the war, millions of Syrians have fled not just the military of President Bashar al-Assad but also the forces of Russia, Iranian militias and the Islamic State.

There are also thousands of Afghans and Iraqis whose lives are at risk because of assistance they offered American troops stationed in their countries. Of all the refugees that my organization, the International Rescue Committee, would be helping to resettle this year, this group, the Special Immigrant Visa population, makes up a fourth.
When President Obama ordered sanctions against Russia in 2014 for its Ukraine incursions, sales of Kalashnikov rifles surged in the United States. This is the deadly, ubiquitous assault weapon favored by infantries, terrorists and rich American hobbyists.

AK-47s, as the rapid-firing weapons are popularly known, could no longer be imported from Russia, so buyers quickly depleted existing stocks and bid the price up.

The sanctions came just as the Russian manufacturer had planned a big export campaign of Kalashnikovs with an American affiliate. It aimed to take advantage of gun controls in the United States, which are considerably looser than those in Russia when it comes to selling civilians assault weapons adapted from the military battlefield.

There are countless AK-47 knockoffs available in the American market, as is evident in the mayhem of mass shootings that bedevil the nation. Yet the attraction of an authentic Kalashnikov remains strong for hunters and collectors. This has prompted American entrepreneurs at a company called Kalashnikov USA to plan to manufacture the weapons in Florida and thus observe the import ban.
This is why Mexico today faces a tough choice, given the asymmetry between both countries: accommodate Mr. Trump and get the least-bad deal possible, or lay out a series of red lines or list of American demands Mexico cannot accept and adopt a policy of forceful resistance. It could then attempt to wait Mr. Trump out, hoping that he will open too many fronts simultaneously, that domestic opposition to his excesses will grow, and that Mexicos allies in the United States and abroad will eventually rebalance the unequal correlation of forces.

Mr. Pena Nieto had no choice but to cancel his trip. But he had partly boxed himself into a corner because of previous indecision or procrastination.

He knew some time ago that Mr. Trump would insist on renegotiation. He knew that several roads could lead to a favorable outcome for all three member countries, but that there could also be dire consequences for Mexico if the road chosen led to a revised Nafta requiring drawn-out deliberations in the legislative bodies of Canada, the United States and Mexico. The agreement would then fall hostage to partisan bickering, with no guarantees of approval. The uncertainty that would entail might easily place new foreign investment in Mexico on hold.

Mexico should have a red line on trade. Everything that can be done without new legislative approval in all the three countries is fair game, but nothing else. Better to have the United States invoke Naftas Article 2205, which says that a country can withdraw from the agreement six months after giving notice.

A similar red line should have been drawn by Mr. Pena Nieto on the prickliest, if not the most substantive issue: the wall. Again, incomprehensibly, Mr. Pena Nieto painted himself into a corner by stressing the walls payment, rather than its very existence. The crux of the matter should never have been who would pay for it, but rather that it was an unfriendly act toward a friendly country, sending a disastrous symbolic message to Latin America. The real issue is that it will generate countless social, cultural and environmental problems along the border; raise the cost and danger of unauthorized crossings; and attract even more organized crime.
Im amazed at how many people on the street are saying, Please, dont let her be in charge of education,  said Senator Patty Murray, the ranking Democrat on the committee thats considering DeVoss nomination, which is adorably called Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP). Its not particularly astonishing that a Democratic senator would hear complaints about a Republican presidents nominees. But it is sort of remarkable how much ire, wrath and terror this particular one is causing. Youd expect everybody would be focused on the proposed budget director who wants to cut Social Security and failed to pay taxes on his babysitters salary.

The committee is scheduled to vote Tuesday on the nomination. So far theres not much sign of Republican defections, even though DeVoss appearance before it was a disaster. The chairman, Lamar Alexander, desperately tried to throw himself in front of the train wreck. But it was hopeless, even before DeVos said that guns in school might be necessary to protect from potential grizzlies.

Poor Senator Alexander, who was once secretary of education himself, has an excellent reputation for bipartisanship. But there he was, limiting his members to five minutes worth of questions each and refusing to allow a second round.

In the short time allotted, the committee did manage to learn that DeVos doesnt understand federal laws on educating disabled students and that in all her years working on school reform in Detroit, she has never asked any public school principals whether they had enough resources.
There are varying degrees of absurdity in the fallacies President Trump peddled during his first week in the Oval Office. Perhaps the most damaging was his insistence that millions of Americans voted illegally in the election he narrowly won.

Mr. Trump first made that false claim in late November, tweeting that he would have won the popular vote if you deduct the millions of people who voted illegally. On Wednesday, he announced that he intended to launch a major investigation into voting fraud and suggested the outcome may justify tightening voting rules.

What once seemed like another harebrained claim by a president with little regard for the truth must now be recognized as a real threat to American democracy. Mr. Trump is telegraphing his administrations intent to provide cover for longstanding efforts by Republicans to suppress minority voters by purging voting rolls, imposing onerous identification requirements and curtailing early voting.

This is another attempt to undermine our democracy, said Representative Barbara Lee of California, one of the states where Mr. Trump falsely claimed results were tainted by large-scale fraud. Its about not honoring and recognizing demographic change.
Note that the discrimination ban applies only to immigrants. Legally speaking, immigrants are those who are given permanent United States residency. By contrast, temporary visitors like guest workers, students and tourists, as well as refugees, could still be barred. The 1965 law does not ban discrimination based on religion  which was Mr. Trumps original proposal.

While presidents have used their power dozens of times to keep out certain groups of foreigners under the 1952 law, no president has ever barred an entire nationality of immigrants without exception. In the most commonly cited case, President Jimmy Carter barred certain Iranians during the 1980 hostage crisis, but the targets were mainly students, tourists and temporary visitors. Even then, the policy had many humanitarian exceptions. Immigrants continued to be admitted in 1980.

While courts rarely interfere in immigration matters, they have affirmed the discrimination ban. In the 1990s, for example, the government created a policy that required Vietnamese who had fled to Hong Kong to return to Vietnam if they wanted to apply for United States immigrant visas, while it allowed applicants from other countries to apply for visas wherever they wanted. A federal appeals court blocked the policy.

The government in that case did not even bother arguing that the 1952 law permitted discrimination. The court rejected its defense that a rational link with a temporary foreign policy measure could justify ignoring the law  an argument the Trump administration is sure to make. The court wrote, We cannot rewrite a statutory provision which by its own terms provides no exceptions or qualifications.

To resolve this case, Congress amended the law in 1996 to state that procedures and locations for processing immigration applications cannot count as discrimination. While there is plenty of room for executive mischief there, the amendment made clear that Congress still wanted the discrimination ban to hold some force. A blanket immigration prohibition on a nationality by the president would still be illegal.

Even if courts do find wiggle room here, discretion can be taken too far. If Mr. Trump can legally ban an entire region of the world, he would render Congresss vision of unbiased legal immigration a dead letter. An appeals court stopped President Barack Obamas executive actions to spare millions of undocumented immigrants from deportations for the similar reason that he was circumventing Congress. Some discretion? Sure. Discretion to rewrite the law? Not in Americas constitutional system.
Ever since Winston Churchill first used the phrase, it has been mandatory at the first meeting of any British prime minister and American president to invoke their countries special relationship. Rarely, however, has there been as much suspense waiting to hear that phrase as when a British leader working to extract her country from Europe met on Friday with a president whose foreign policy is still a fog and whose mantra is America first.

Prime Minister Theresa May had a lot to gain, or to lose, from her trip to Washington. Faced with negotiations over Britains planned exit from the European Union, she needed to demonstrate to Continental Europeans and to British voters that she had a powerful alternative source of support and trade across the Atlantic. The problem for Mrs. May was that President Trump had been saying a lot of things unacceptable to the British  about torture, NATO, Vladimir Putin and even the uselessness of the E.U., a sentiment Britain officially does not share.

Mr. Trump, for his part, needed for his first meeting with a foreign leader to be at least somewhat presidential after a chaotic first week in the White House, with a deepening crisis in relations with Mexico and questions swirling about his attitude toward Russia as he prepared for a telephone conversation on Saturday with President Putin.

Hanging over the meeting were reports that the Trump administration is preparing to lift sanctions against Russia, perhaps unilaterally. Kellyanne Conway, the presidents counselor, said, All of that is under consideration, on Fox and Friends on Friday.
FRONT PAGE

An obituary on Thursday about Mary Tyler Moore misspelled the surname of the actor who played Murray Slaughter on The Mary Tyler Moore Show. He is Gavin MacLeod, not McLeod. Because of an editing error, the obituary referred imprecisely to the Tony Award Ms. Moore received in 1980 for her performance in Whose Life Is It, Anyway? She was given a special Tony; she did not win in a competitive acting category. And because of another editing error, the obituary gave outdated information about where Ms. Moore and her husband, Dr. Robert Levine, lived. They had a home in Greenwich, Conn.; they no longer lived on a farm in upstate New York.



An article on Jan. 3 about concern in South Korea over the mixing of business and politics amid the impeachment case against President Park Geun-hye misspelled, in some editions, the surname of the chairman of the SK Group, who was pardoned by Ms. Park in 2015 after his imprisonment on corruption charges. He is Chey Tae-won, not Choi Tae-won.

THE ARTS

The Carpetbagger column on Thursday, about the Academy Award nominations, misstated the budget of Moonlight, which received eight nominations, including for best picture. It was $1.5 million, not $5 million.

WEEKEND

A pop music entry in the Listings pages on Friday about a performance by Eric Church at Barclays Center omitted part of the name of the ceremony at which his Mr. Misunderstood was named album of the year. It is the Country Music Association Awards, not the Country Music Awards.
For six decades, she has been the silent woman linked to one of the most notorious crimes in the nations history, the lynching of Emmett Till, a 14-year-old black boy, keeping her thoughts and memories to herself as millions of strangers idealized or vilified her.

But all these years later, a historian says that the woman has broken her silence, and acknowledged that the most incendiary parts of the story she and others told about Emmett  claims that seem tame today but were more than enough to get a black person killed in Jim Crow-era Mississippi  were false.

The woman, Carolyn Bryant Donham, spoke to Timothy B. Tyson, a Duke University professor  possibly the only interview she has given to a historian or journalist since shortly after the episode  who has written a book, The Blood of Emmett Till, to be published next week.

In it, he wrote that she said of her long-ago allegations that Emmett grabbed her and was menacing and sexually crude toward her, that part is not true.
WASHINGTON  Congressional Republicans, meeting behind closed doors this week in Philadelphia, expressed grave concerns about dismantling the Affordable Care Act on the urgent timetable demanded by President Trump, fretting that, among other things, they could wreck insurance markets and be saddled with a politically disastrous Trumpcare.

An audio recording of a session at their annual retreat, obtained by The New York Times, shows Republicans in disarray, far from agreement on health policy, and still searching for something to replace former President Barack Obamas health care law. While their leaders called for swift action to rescue consumers from the Affordable Care Act, some backbench Republicans worried about potential pitfalls.

We had better be sure that we are prepared to live with the market being created, said Representative Tom McClintock of California, because thats going to be called Trumpcare.

He added, Republicans will own it lock, stock and barrel, and well be judged on that.

When Democrats were writing the Affordable Care Act seven years ago, their primary goal was to provide health insurance to more people, an ambition that the Obama administration went to great lengths to fulfill as it enrolled millions of people in Medicaid or private health plans.
Mr. Trump reinforced his solidarity with the movement by sending a Twitter post saying, The #MarchForLife is so important. To all of you marching  you have my full support!

Endearing himself to social conservatives in a way that many did not think possible, Mr. Trump has cast himself as the most unflinchingly anti-abortion president in at least a generation, breaking with previous Republican nominees who generally took a more tepid approach when discussing the issue. President George W. Bush insisted that he would apply no litmus test to his Supreme Court nominees on any issue, including abortion. His father, President George Bush, said the same thing, using the same language, reinforcing the mistrust of many social conservatives.

But Mr. Trump not only insisted that he would pick an anti-abortion justice to replace Antonin Scalia  whose seat has been vacant since he died last year  he signed a four-part pledge to take policy steps considered vital to the movement, including a commitment to sign a ban on abortion after 20 weeks of pregnancy, if such legislation reaches his desk.

It has been a remarkable turnaround for a man who spent much of his life as a supporter of abortion rights and who once described himself as very pro-choice. Yet during the campaign, Mr. Trump spoke more vividly and more forcefully on the issue than any recent Republican nominee, disregarding years of established practice from conservatives who believed that it was political suicide to sound too radical.

Shortly after he was elected, Mr. Trump said women might have to cross state lines to have an abortion because his goal was to see Roe v. Wade overturned. He graphically characterized Hillary Clinton as someone who would tolerate abortion up until the point a doctor could rip the baby out of the womb of the mother just prior to the birth. He also said at one point that he believed women who had abortions should be punished, a statement he later had to walk back after even anti-abortion groups said he had gone too far.
WASHINGTON  If other new occupants of the White House wanted to be judged by their first 100 days in office, President Trump seems intent to be judged by his first 100 hours. No president in modern times, if ever, has started with such a flurry of initiatives on so many fronts in such short order.

The action-oriented approach reflected a businessmans idea of how government should work: Issue orders and get it done. But while the rapid-fire succession of directives on health care, trade, abortion, the environment, immigration, national security, housing and other areas cheered Americans who want Mr. Trump to shake up Washington, it also revealed a sometimes unruly process that may or may not achieve the goals he has outlined.

On the campaign trail, Mr. Trump boasted he had no government experience and, in his first week in the White House, it sometimes showed. Orders were signed without feedback from the agencies they would affect. Policy ideas were floated and then retracted within hours. Meetings and public events were scheduled and then canceled. Advisers to the president made decisions without telling one another. The president called for an investigation looking at voters registered in more than one state, unaware that it would include his chief strategist, press secretary, treasury secretary, daughter and son-in-law.

And Congress often appeared to be an afterthought.

Whatever the stumbles, Mr. Trump expressed satisfaction with the debut of his presidency and the White House released a list of accomplishments under the headline, President Trumps First Week of Action. The bottom-line message to the American public was that politics as usual was over, and the new president was energetically remaking the country for the better.
(e) After the 60-day period described in subsection (d) of this section expires, the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of State, shall submit to the President a list of countries recommended for inclusion on a Presidential proclamation that would prohibit the entry of foreign nationals (excluding those foreign nationals traveling on diplomatic visas, North Atlantic Treaty Organization visas, C-2 visas for travel to the United Nations, and G-1, G-2, G-3, and G-4 visas) from countries that do not provide the information requested pursuant to subsection (d) of this section until compliance occurs.

(f) At any point after submitting the list described in subsection (e) of this section, the Secretary of State or the Secretary of Homeland Security may submit to the President the names of any additional countries recommended for similar treatment.

(g) Notwithstanding a suspension pursuant to subsection (c) of this section or pursuant to a Presidential proclamation described in subsection (e) of this section, the Secretaries of State and Homeland Security may, on a case-by-case basis, and when in the national interest, issue visas or other immigration benefits to nationals of countries for which visas and benefits are otherwise blocked.

(h) The Secretaries of State and Homeland Security shall submit to the President a joint report on the progress in implementing this orderwithin 30 days of the date of this order, a second report within 60 daysof the date of this order, a third report within 90 days of the date of this order, and a fourth report within 120 days of the date of this order.

Sec. 4. Implementing Uniform Screening Standards for All Immigration Programs. (a) The Secretary of State, the Secretary of Homeland Security, the Director of National Intelligence, and the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation shall implement a program, as part of the adjudication process for immigration benefits, to identify individuals seeking to enter the United States on a fraudulent basis with the intent to cause harm, or who are at risk of causing harm subsequent to their admission. This program will include the development of a uniform screening standard and procedure, such as in-person interviews; a database of identity documents proffered by applicants to ensure that duplicate documents are not used by multiple applicants; amended application forms that include questions aimed at identifying fraudulent answers and malicious intent; a mechanism to ensure that the applicant is who the applicant claims to be; a process to evaluate the applicants likelihood of becoming a positively contributing member of society and the applicants ability to make contributions to the national interest; and a mechanism to assess whether or not the applicant has the intent to commit criminal or terrorist acts after entering the United States.

(b) The Secretary of Homeland Security, in conjunction with the Secretary of State, the Director of National Intelligence, and the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, shall submit to the President an initial report on the progress of this directive within 60 days of the date of this order, a second report within 100 days of the date of this order, and a third report within 200 days of the date of this order.

Sec. 5. Realignment of the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program for Fiscal Year 2017. (a) The Secretary of State shall suspend the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) for 120 days. During the 120-day period, the Secretary of State, in conjunction with the Secretary of Homeland Security and in consultation with the Director of National Intelligence, shall review the USRAP application and adjudication process to determine what additional procedures should be taken to ensure that those approved for refugee admission do not pose a threat to the security and welfare of the United States, and shall implement such additional procedures. Refugee applicants who are already in the USRAP process may be admitted upon the initiation and completion of these revised procedures. Upon the date that is 120 days after the date of this order, the Secretary of State shall resume USRAP admissions only for nationals of countries for which the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and the Director of National Intelligence have jointly determined that such additional procedures are adequate to ensure the security and welfare of the United States.
Suleiman Abdullah Salim, a Tanzanian man and a former detainee held by the C.I.A., is a plaintiff in a lawsuit focusing on C.I.A. interrogations.

Credit... Bryan Denton for The New York Times
WASHINGTON  President Trump on Friday closed the nations borders to refugees from around the world, ordering that families fleeing the slaughter in Syria be indefinitely blocked from entering the United States, and temporarily suspending immigration from several predominantly Muslim countries.

In an executive order that he said was part of an extreme vetting plan to keep out radical Islamic terrorists, Mr. Trump also established a religious test for refugees from Muslim nations: He ordered that Christians and others from minority religions be granted priority over Muslims.

We dont want them here, Mr. Trump said of Islamist terrorists during a signing ceremony at the Pentagon. We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas. We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country, and love deeply our people.

Earlier in the day, Mr. Trump explained to an interviewer for the Christian Broadcasting Network that Christians in Syria were horribly treated and alleged that under previous administrations, if you were a Muslim you could come in, but if you were a Christian, it was almost impossible.
Its an unusual search that has captivated animal lovers around Norfolk, Va., for days: Bloodhounds, infrared cameras and even drones have been used  all to try to find Sunny, a female red panda.

Sunny disappeared from her habitat at the Virginia Zoo sometime after 5 p.m. Monday but before Tuesday morning. Extensive searches by workers and volunteers inside the zoo and in surrounding neighborhoods had produced no credible sightings by late Friday.

Sunny, who measures 34 inches long  half of which is her tail  is 19 months old. That makes her a young adult capable of reproducing. It might have been her habitat mate, a red panda named Thomas, who caused her to leave, Greg Bockheim, the executive director of the zoo, said in an interview on Friday.

In preparation for the one day a year that red pandas mate, Thomas may have been pursuing her too closely, and she either left or lost her footing during his aggressive pursuit. Though red pandas are not diggers or jumpers, they are agile climbers. The open exhibit is surrounded by tall oak trees that she could have easily have reached.
TEHRAN  Families, businesspeople, athletes and tourists from seven countries in the Middle East and Africa found their travel plans  and even their futures  in a state of suspension on Friday after President Trump signed an executive order temporarily barring thousands from obtaining visas to travel to the United States.

The order is expected to freeze almost all travel to the United States by citizens from the Muslim-majority countries of Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen for at least 90 days. Three of those countries are considered sponsors of terrorism (Iran, Sudan and Syria), and three are designated countries of concern (Libya, Somalia and Yemen).

Passport-holders from those countries, who have American visas but are outside the United States, will not be permitted to return.

We only want to admit those who will support our country and love deeply our people, Mr. Trump said on Friday before signing the order at the Pentagon. We will never forget the lessons of 9/11, nor the heroes who lost their lives at the Pentagon.
PARIS  The ability of an Oscar-nominated Iranian director to attend the Academy Awards ceremony next month has been thrown into question by President Trumps order temporarily banning citizens of seven predominantly Muslim countries from entering the United States.

The director, Asghar Farhadi, whose film The Salesman is nominated in the best foreign-language film category, was not immediately available for comment.

But early Saturday, Trita Parsi, director of the National Iranian American Council, based in Washington, said in a Twitter post: Confirmed: Irans Asghar Farhadi wont be let into the US to attend Oscars. Hes nominated for best foreign-language film... #MuslimBan
Known for its shock of yellow hair and bright orange cheeks, the lesser prairie-chicken once roamed the Great Plains. Today, though, the grouse is under threat  its populations reduced to isolated pockets in western Kansas, Colorado and the Texas-New Mexico border as its habitat succumbs to climate-induced drought, farming, drilling and other human activity.

The group has been petitioning the Fish and Wildlife Service to relist the lesser prairie-chicken as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. The bird found itself taken off the list after a lawsuit in 2014 backed by the oil and gas industry, which argues that any protective measures would mean added costs for energy developers.

Mr. Salvo has found that to gain allies it doesnt always help to start with the role climate change plays in harming the birds habitat. Instead, his movement has tried to find common ground, highlighting the historical heritage of the lesser prairie-chicken. In the Little House on the Prairie novels, Laura Ingalls Wilder wrote about eating prairie-chicken mush.

Mr. Salvo also stresses how grouse-friendly practices can be good for farming, too, backing a federal program that provides financial aid to private landowners who adopt those practices. Leaving corn stubble standing after harvest gives the birds food and places to hide, for example, while also helping farmers protect the soil.

Sometimes, to gain allies, it helps to focus on issues of common concern, to support local economic development as well as species conservation, he said. It helps everybody come to the table.

Last week, Mr. Palen, the farmer, was again talking weather  if not climate change  at a conference of no-till farmers in Salina, Kan. Sessions included Using Your Water Efficiently, Making Weather Work for You in 2017 and Building Healthy Soil With Mob Grazing, a practice that helps to fertilize the land.

And yes, Mr. Palen says, he is on board with saving the lesser prairie-chicken. I often think of ways I can protect their habitat, he said. I enjoy wildlife.
It was the border wall that didnt get built.

In 2006, Boeing and a team of other companies won a federal contract to construct a wall to protect the United States border with Mexico, which stretches roughly 2,000 miles, from California to Texas.

Five years and about $1 billion later, the government threw in the towel. Costs had ballooned, and the surveillance systems suffered from technical difficulties. Nearly all of the money had been spent on just 53 miles of the border in Arizona.

The project was a loss for taxpayers. But for contractors, it was a big win.

Today, as President Trump declares his intention to move forward with plans to build a barrier along the Mexican border, many of the details remain little more than a guessing game. Does Mr. Trump intend to build miles of concrete blocks, or fencing? Could parts of the wall be virtual, using technology like cameras and sensors to monitor the border, or be manned by drones? Will Mexico, as Mr. Trump has promised repeatedly, pay for it?

There is no doubt that if the United States moves ahead with plans for an ambitious border wall  one of the biggest infrastructure projects in decades, perhaps running in the tens of billions of dollars  it will be a boon for contractors.
A week after the presidential election, while walking through the farmers market in Union Square, I came across a young woman giving out free hugs to strangers. I gladly accepted one. Balm.

A day later, a friend told me that a Lutheran pastor on the Upper East Side has been dispensing free counsel on the sidewalk on Tuesday mornings while sitting in a wooden booth that he had made to the exact specifications of Lucys in the comic strip Peanuts, complete with a sign reading, Spiritual Help, 5 cents. The pastor is in. (Nickels are provided.)

Street preachers. Huggers without portfolio. If stores and restaurants can pop up, why cant the helping professions?

Im not surprised that theres a resurgence of this stuff, said Anna Carter Florence, an ordained Presbyterian minister and the Peter Marshall Professor of Preaching at Columbia Theological Seminary in Decatur, Ga., who said she saw a group of women giving free hugs outdoors in Toronto in November. Historically, street preaching has to do with the proclamation of injustice and freedom for the oppressed. Its a kind of street theater. Its sacred jesters.
Anastasia Sofia Frank and Eric Hall Bruggemann were married Jan. 27 at Strawberry Fields in Central Park. Elizabeth Alanis, a friend of the bride and a minister of the American Marriage Ministries, officiated.

The bride, who is 33 and is taking her husbands name, is an operations manager for investment and corporate banking in the New York office of the Bank of Montreal. She graduated from Princeton and received a Master of Fine Arts degree in film production from New York University.

She is the daughter of Janet R. Veale of Monticello, N.Y., and Christopher Frank of Beverly Hills, Calif.

The groom, 48, is a New York-based producer and editor for television and film. He is a founding partner of Scissor Kick Films and the founder of Syzygy Pictures, both film production companies in New York. He produced the feature documentary Sunshine Superman, which was chosen as an opening night film at the 2014 Toronto International Film Festival and was released worldwide in 2015 via Magnolia Pictures, Universal Pictures and CNN. He graduated from Occidental College.
Kimberly Lin and Nicholas James Bergson-Shilcock were married Jan. 28 at the Laguna Art Museum in Laguna Beach, Calif. Amanda Bergson-Shilcock, a sister of the groom who became a minister with American Marriage Ministries for the event, officiated at the nondenominational ceremony.

Ms. Lin, 29, is keeping her name. She is a product manager at Squarespace, a company in Manhattan that creates websites for clients. She is also a cellist in the Brooklyn Symphony Orchestra. She graduated from the University of California, Berkeley.

She is a daughter of Meilin W. Lin and Ming Shu Lin of Yorba Linda, Calif. The brides father, who works in Los Angeles, is a software architect at Sempra Energy, a natural-gas utilities holding company in San Diego.

Mr. Bergson-Shilcock, 32, is a founder of the Recurse Center, a computer programming retreat in Manhattan. He graduated with a bachelor of arts degree, summa cum laude, in intelligent systems from Franklin & Marshall College, and also received a bachelor of science degree, cum laude, in computer engineering from Columbia.
Maha al-Obaidis family is divided.

She immigrated to New York City in 2014, reuniting with her three sons who had arrived earlier. She expected that her husband, Husham al-Qadhi, and her two other sons would soon join her from Amman, Jordan, finally bringing the family together after a tumultuous decade of surviving the Iraq war, fleeing to Jordan and then searching for a permanent home.

But on Friday, the family was dealt another blow, after President Trump approved a sweeping executive order on immigration that, among other things, blocked entry into the United States for 90 days for citizens of seven predominantly Muslim countries including Iraq, where members of the family are citizens. Her husband and two sons in Jordan are for now locked out of the United States, and Ms. Obaidi cannot travel away, or risk being denied re-entry.

Now our family in the U.S. cant even come to visit us, nor can we visit them, Mr. Qadhi said on Saturday in Amman. We just sit and watch like the rest of the world what is happening, and our fate is being decided for us, in front of our eyes.

The family lived in Baghdad as American tanks, troops and missiles tore into the Iraqi capital in 2003. It stayed for several years, despite gunfire and bomb blasts outside its house and the kidnapping of several family members. The family helped American soldiers even though other Iraqis targeted it for doing so.
The Beatrice Public Schools Committee of the Whole meeting Thursday night extended ongoing conversations of what to do with the four elementary schools as space tightens and maintenance projects add up.

"I will say based on board member comments at the board retreat (in January), we are still looking at options of moving very possibly to a three-building K-5 elementary (system) for next year," said BPS Superintendent Pat Nauroth. "I know I'm going to meet with the elementary principals on Monday to have more conversations about that. At the retreat, we talked about that taking place in the '18-'19 school year, but I still want to explore that if there's a simple way we can do that and move forward."

The idea was a controversial at a November BPS meeting that drew several Cedar Elementary staff and parents who pushed back on the idea of the school becoming a preschool facility and the kindergartners through fifth graders being moved to the other three elementary schools.

"When we do move to a three-building K-5 system, we know that one of the reasons we need to do that and one of the things that would help us with that is cost savings dealing with some sections reductions," Nauroth said. "Our intent is that that would happen through attrition and not through other means if at all possible."

Board member Doris Martin said she wants to see classes kept as small as possible. Nauroth said that under the new plan, classes would likely be at capacity -- which is about 30 kids per room.

At that November meeting, Nauroth said the plan would require adding two new portable classrooms at Paddock Lane at a possible cost of $500,000 total, including installation of plumbing and electricity.

A new idea was explained on Thursday: a metal building that would fit four classrooms and two bathrooms. The building, architecture and engineering fees, installation of internet access and a "breezeway connection to the building" would probably be at least $300,000 to $350,000, Nauroth said.

"I'd definitely rather see a building than portables," said board member Steve Winter.

Board members, administrators, staff members and parents have expressed distaste for portables. Paddock Lane already has two portables.

"I think we're several years away from trying to pass any kind of bond issue," Winter said. "There are too many issues going on, including the Legislature."

Nauroth agreed, mentioning a $28 million court case Gage County is facing due to six people being wrongfully convicted of a 1986 murder.

The nice thing about adding a metal building, Nauroth said, is that the money would come from the BPS building fund, not the general fund, and it would not require a bond issue.

The group also spoke briefly about elementary building staff, principals in particular. The four schools have long had two principals -- each splitting their time between their two respective schools.

Staff members have told the board, and board members have agreed, that a major daily concern is the lack of administrators in the buildings.

Theresa Smith, principal of Lincoln and Cedar elementary schools, is retiring after the end of the current school year.

Nauroth said he is exploring expanding administration, that he doesn't want to rush the process and that before he does any hiring, he wants to be sure the team knows what it wants.

Board member Janet Byars mentioned that each elementary school would gain about 40 students each from the move, which will add stress for the administrators.

At the beginning of the current school year, Cedar Elementary had 129 students enrolled, and Lincoln, Paddock Lane and Stoddard each had about 230 students enrolled.

The conversations will continue at future board meetings. The next meeting is Feb. 13 at 7 p.m. in the Central Administration Building at Sixth and High streets. Items on the agenda include voting on the calendars for the next two school years and a proposed change to graduation requirements.
The order lacks any logic. It invokes the attacks of Sept. 11 as a rationale, while exempting the countries of origin of all the hijackers who carried out that plot and also, perhaps not coincidentally, several countries where the Trump family does business. The document does not explicitly mention any religion, yet it sets a blatantly unconstitutional standard by excluding Muslims while giving government officials the discretion to admit people of other faiths.

The orders language makes clear that the xenophobia and Islamophobia that permeated Mr. Trumps campaign are to stain his presidency as well. Un-American as they are, they are now American policy. The United States must ensure that those admitted to this country do not bear hostile attitudes toward it and its founding principles, the order says, conveying the spurious notion that all Muslims should be considered a threat. (It further claims to spare America from people who would commit acts of violence against women and those who persecute people on the basis of race, gender or sexual orientation. A president who bragged about sexually assaulting women and a vice president who has supported policies that discriminate against gay people might well fear that standard themselves.)

The unrighteousness of this new policy should be enough to prompt the courts, Congress and responsible members of Mr. Trumps cabinet to reverse it immediately. But there is an even more compelling reason: It is extremely dangerous. Extremist groups will trumpet this order to spread the notion, today more credible than ever, that the United States is at war with Islam rather than targeting terrorists. They want nothing more than a fearful, recklessly belligerent America; so, if anything, this ban will heighten their efforts to strike at Americans, to provoke yet further overreaction from a volatile and inexperienced president.

American allies in the Middle East will reasonably question why they should cooperate with, and defer to, the United States while its top officials vilify their faith. Afghans and Iraqis supporting American military operations would be justified in reassessing the merits of taking enormous risks for a government that is bold enough to drop bombs on their homelands but too frightened to provide a haven to their most vulnerable compatriots, and perhaps to them as well. Republicans in Congress who remain quiet or tacitly supportive of the ban should recognize that history will remember them as cowards.

There may be no one better positioned to force a suspension of this policy than Mr. Trumps secretary of defense, Jim Mattis. Mr. Mattis was clear-eyed about the dangers of a proposed Muslim ban during the election, saying that American allies were reasonably wondering if we have lost faith in reason. He added: This kind of thing is causing us great damage right now, and its sending shock waves through this international system.
It was a spring afternoon in Istanbul, and I was talking with a woman in beige pumps and pearls who was angry about her government. It was taking the country in the wrong direction, she said, and she had come out with thousands of other people to protest. People from poor areas who supported the government were going against their self-interest. Theyre only being manipulated, she said.

Fast-forward 10 years to 2017. I am standing in a crowd of women wearing fleeces and sensible shoes in Washington, D.C. Everything feels oddly familiar. They were angry about the election and worried that it would take the country in the wrong direction. Many people who supported the new president had voted against their interests, they said.

I have covered political divides in Turkey, Russia, Pakistan and Iraq. The pattern often goes like this: one country. Two tribes. Conflicting visions for how government should be run. There is lots of shouting. Sometimes there is shooting.

Now those same forces are tearing at my own country.

Increasingly, Americans live in alternate worlds, with different laws of gravity, languages and truths. Politics is raw, more about who you are than what you believe. The ground is shifting in unsettling ways. Even democracy feels fragile.
I got in touch with the authorities in the university. The experts in charge of oversight were concerned and compassionate, but they also felt that Heather was a possible culprit. There was nothing in her behavior that suggested anything but a sterling character and devotion to science. But, once again, the suggestion made me fear it was true.

The tampering with Heathers work continued and we ultimately asked the police to get involved. This was not a simple case of vandalism, I told them, but tampering with cancer research in which substantial resources had been invested. They dispatched a detective who helped me construct a detailed list of suspects. We started by identifying those who had access to the lab (students, staff), then narrowed it down to people who might have a grudge against Heather. We also looked at people who might hold a grudge against me  anyone Id offended or let go in the past. But in the end, he too felt that Heather was the prime suspect.

So now what? The only thing left to do was install hidden cameras.

In April 2010, a couple of months after Heathers email, the hidden cameras revealed the culprit: a postdoctoral fellow named Vipul Bhrigu, who, confronted with the video, confessed that he had sprayed alcohol into a cell culture medium in the refrigerator. We were in shock. Dr. Bhrigu was the most cooperative, passionate and friendly member of my lab. Hed been at the bottom of our suspect list.

After being taken to the police station, he and the detective returned to my office. I am sorry, he told me. I have disgraced myself, hurt you, hurt the lab and know that you will never forgive me. I felt terrible every time I did this and almost hoped there was a camera. I thought Heather was so smart and I did it to slow her down. It was because of my internal pressure.

Were we dealing with a sociopath, or was he being honest?

Obviously we cant tolerate fraud, but the culture of scientific research may deserve some blame. There is more pressure than ever for researchers to generate huge amounts of data to publish high-impact papers. Those who publish less get less funding. We need a culture change. If we want to protect the integrity of our research, we need to protect the sanity of our researchers. Besides, good science happens when there is freedom to make mistakes, to learn from those mistakes, to discover the unexpected. Unrelenting pressure makes diamonds, not discoveries.

Dr. Bhrigu was convicted of a misdemeanor. The judge sentenced him to a psychological evaluation, to probation and to pay $30,000 in restitution to the University of Michigan. While on probation, he moved back home to India. I did, however, hear from the prosecution a few years later that hed finished his probation after all and paid his fine in full.

Heather  Dr. Ames, now  completed her Ph.D. with flying colors. She is a top-notch pathologist and cancer biologist at Johns Hopkins University. She studies brain cancer. Nothing gets in her way.
As first-generation Indian-Americans, they shuddered at his quickness to demonize people of color with Asian, African or Latino ancestry.

I feel devastated, Maya told me. For me, the acceptance of diversity is one of the things that makes this country great. This election is destroying that. And that gets me into the street.

What weve seen from the White House in this opening stage of the Trump administration isnt encouraging. Trumps promised pivot to a presidential demeanor never happened, and apparently never will: Its outside of his skill set. Its alien to his psychology. Hes all ego and spleen, with only the loosest of tethers to truth.

But were seeing something else  something sunnier  beyond the White House: an awakening in many Americans who were trusting, complacent or distracted before. Thats what the protests all around the country demonstrated, though whether they will translate into consequential action  and become an insurance policy against the damage Trump may do  isnt clear. The three sisters are trying to figure that out.

Theyre scared. Mythili told me that as she watches Trump and the people around him reject science, construct alternate realities and try to silence anyone who balks at that, she worries that the very idea of America is in jeopardy.

We believe in freedom of expression, she said, meaning Americans. We believe in facts. We believe in transparency. And what hes doing  its a slippery slope toward a country that I dont recognize and a country that I dont want to live in.
Readers offer perspectives on how low-income young people can be helped to finish college.

To the Editor: Re Americas Great Working-Class Colleges (column, Jan. 22):

David Leonhardt calls attention to new research that shows the important role that working-class colleges play in helping graduates prosper and succeed. More than half the students who enter these colleges, however, fail to graduate, missing the lifetime benefits a college degree confers.

My research at the City University of New York shows that health and social problems that interfere with academic success are one reason. Our surveys of representative samples of CUNY community college and undergraduate students show that about half report one or more, and a quarter report two or more, of eight conditions identified in the literature as disrupting academic progress.

These are depression, anxiety, pregnancy or raising young children, partner violence, lack of health insurance, no regular medical provider, food insecurity and obesity.

By helping students overcome the health and social problems that undermine academic success, universities serving low-income populations can contribute even more to reducing the educational, income, health and life satisfaction inequalities that characterize the United States.
But we will not be part of that today.

Trump signed an executive order on Friday that suspends refugee programs and targets Muslims from certain countries. Its hypocritical for Trump to be todays avatar of hostility to immigrants, since his own family suffered from anti-German sentiment and pretended to be Swedish. But Im indignant for a more personal reason  and Im getting to that.

Kirk W. Johnson, a former American aid official in Iraq, fears that the executive order will bar military interpreters who have bled for America and to whom we have promised entry. He told me about one interpreter, nicknamed Homeboy, who ran through fire to rescue a wounded American soldier, and then was himself shot. Homeboy survived, barely, but lost his leg  and as he recovered, a grenade was thrown at his home by insurgents angry that he had helped Americans.

After years of vetting, Homeboy was approved for a visa for interpreters who helped the United States. Does Trump really want to betray such people who risked more for America than Trump himself ever did?

Yet if fear and obliviousness have led us periodically to target refugees, theres also another thread that runs through American history. Its reflected in the welcome received by somebody I deeply admire: Wladyslaw Krzysztofowicz. And this is personal.

Raised in what was then Romania and is now Ukraine, Krzysztofowicz was jailed by the Gestapo for assisting an anti-Nazi spy for the West. His aunt was murdered in Auschwitz for similar spying, but he was freed with a bribe. When World War II was ending, he fled his home as it fell into the hands of the Soviets.
Its one of them Facebook things where you see Muslim men are attacking women, and stuff like that, and having no respect for them at all. Ive got a real issue with that, he said. I see story after story after story, and I dont know how true it is.

Mr. Eason said he was skeptical of stories by unfamiliar websites like American News, but he reads them anyway. He commented on one that was posted to Facebook:

Freedoms Final Stand, Oct. 3, 2016: Muslim Refugee Beats and Rapes Woman in North Dakota While Yelling Allahu Akbar

The post, which was shared 14,000 times, linked to a story about a case in which the authorities have not described the immigration status of the suspect, or said that he was a noncitizen. They have also discredited the claim that the man yelled Allahu akbar during the episode.

Nevertheless, the comment that Mr. Eason posted on the site, which he later said he could not remember making, garnered 87 likes. If Muslims are taught hate by their religion, he wrote, then all Muslims are potential terrorists and should be treated accordingly. TRUMP will stop this kind of stuff.

Sgt. Timothy Briggeman of the Cass County Sheriffs Office in North Dakota, which is investigating the case, said such stories and responses often appeared on social media when a person in his jurisdiction with an Arabic-sounding name is charged with a crime.

To be honest, he said, its embarrassing and its disheartening when anyone with a name of such ends up in the news  the comments that get thrown around. That seems to be the No. 1 remark: Send them back and get rid of them, and, We dont need them.

Worries that refugees might be radicalized have also been amplified on the internet. This story was shared at least 1,400 times:

American News, Jan. 11, 2016: Al Qaeda Terrorists That Killed Soldiers Have Entered the U.S. Disguised as Refugees

And this one, posted by The Daily Caller, was shared more than 3,000 times, despite linking to a story with no evidence of a cover-up:

The Daily Caller, Dec. 7, 2015: Homeland Security Chair: Obama Covering Up Evidence ISIS Is Targeting Refugee Plan

The actual number of refugees who have become extremists in the United States has been estimated at between three and 12  out of the more than 800,000 who have resettled here since the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks.

The online stories about refugees range from outright fake news to those based on a grain of truth and then stretched out of proportion. For example, the Breitbart article about genital mutilation was based on a study that estimated that a half-million women currently living in the United States have had their genitals mutilated. But most of them were immigrants who had fled here because of such treatment in their home countries.
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.  Back in his days as a test pilot at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio, Gus Grissom had a message for his wife, Betty.

If I die, have a party, he said.

Betty Grissom never did have that party. But on Friday, as for the past 25 years, there was a solemn observance at the little-known memorial for her husband and two crewmates who were killed in the Apollo 1 disaster. Mr. Grissom, Roger Chaffee and Ed White died in a flash fire that engulfed their capsule atop a Saturn 1B rocket during a routine training operation on Jan. 27, 1967. Mr. Grissom was 40.

Ms. Grissom, 89, was at the memorial again on Friday, wearing a denim jacket with a large Apollo 1 patch in patriotic colors. She joined old friends, family members, and NASA officials and veterans, among them Charlie Duke, who took part in the Apollo 16 moon landing. With the recent deaths of the astronauts John Glenn and Eugene A. Cernan and the sea changes in Washington, the gathering felt like a memorial for an era as well as for three men.

At the ceremony, candles were lit for the dead astronauts by members of their families, including Cody Grissom, 22, a pilot, who is completing his last year at his grandfathers alma mater, Purdue University. Representatives from the Navy, the Air Force and NASA spoke, and a Navy bugler performed taps after the sun went down.
VICTORIA, Texas  A fire early Saturday morning destroyed a mosque in Texas that was burglarized a week ago and vandalized several years ago, officials said.

A convenience store clerk spotted smoke and flames billowing from the Islamic Center of Victoria around 2 a.m. and called the fire department.

Its sad to stand there and watch it collapse, Shahid Hashmi, the Islamic centers president, said. The fire was so huge.

Investigators said the fires cause had not been determined. Tom Legler, the Victoria fire marshal, said he had asked for help from the Texas Fire Marshals Office and the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Rarely does an executive order announce a more straightforward and laudable purpose than the one President Trump signed on Friday: Protecting the Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry Into the United States. But the presidents directive is unlikely to significantly reduce the terrorist threat in the United States, which has been a minuscule part of the overall toll of violence since 2001.

Many experts believe the orders unintended consequences will make the threat worse.

While the order requires the Department of Homeland Security to issue a report within 180 days providing detailed statistics on foreign nationals who commit acts of violence, terrorism researchers have already produced rich and revealing data. For instance, since the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, no one has been killed in the United States in a terrorist attack by anyone who emigrated from or whose parents emigrated from Syria, Iraq, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen, the seven countries targeted in the orders 90-day visa ban, according to Charles Kurzman, a sociology professor at the University of North Carolina.

Of Muslim Americans involved in violent extremism of any kind  for instance, charged with plotting terrorism or supporting a terrorist group  only 23 percent had family backgrounds in those countries, said Mr. Kurzman, who just published the latest of his annual studies of Muslim Americans and terrorism.

The larger point of experts is that jihadist attacks garner news attention that far outstrips their prevalence in the United States, and the presidents order appears to address not a rational calculation of risks but the visceral fears that terrorists set out to inflame.
Ms. DeVoss support for her gay friends and for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender rights are a largely unknown but deep-seated aspect of her history, dating as far back as the late 1990s. At that time, two colleagues recalled, she made accommodations for a transgender woman to use the womens restroom at a Michigan Republican Party call center. She also used her political connections to help persuade other Michigan Republicans to sign a brief urging the Supreme Court to legalize same-sex marriage in 2015, though she did not sign it herself.

This aspect of Ms. DeVoss personal story is not only at odds with the public image of her and her family as prominent financiers of conservative causes, but it also stands out in a nascent administration with a number of members who have a history of opposing gay rights. A Senate confirmation vote on her nomination is scheduled for this week.

The incomplete picture of Ms. DeVos, 59, exists in part because she has never publicly sought to correct it. Doing so, friends and associates said in interviews, would have put her in the awkward position of clashing with the elder members of her and her husbands families, something she was loath to do.

But over the past month, associates have come forward to share stories that they say they hope offer a fuller and more nuanced portrait of her character and beliefs.

She would say its a part of her faith, said Mr. McNeilly, who has worked for Ms. DeVos in various capacities for two decades. Her faith teaches her to be tolerant. And like most of America, shes evolved.
The president cited the Sept. 11 attacks in his decision to issue the immigration restrictions, which he cast in national security terms. We will never forget the lessons of 9/11, he said, nor the people who lost their lives at the Pentagon.

But none of the 19 terrorists who were on the planes that crashed into the World Trade Center and the Pentagon and in Shanksville, Pa., were from any of the countries on Mr. Trumps visa ban list.

What we consider before using anonymous sources. Do the sources know the information? Whats their motivation for telling us? Have they proved reliable in the past? Can we corroborate the information? Even with these questions satisfied, The Times uses anonymous sources as a last resort. The reporter and at least one editor know the identity of the source. Learn more about our process.

Instead, Iraq, where the American military is fighting with Iraqi security forces against the Islamic State, is among the countries on the list. Military officials have repeatedly called the nation an American ally.

After all the money and lives spent in Iraq and Afghanistan, the Pentagon knows better than anyone that terrorism is a problem of a small number of enemies embedded in a population of people you need to win over, said Jon B. Alterman, director of the Middle East Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. I dont see the part of this thats meant to win over anyone.

Two people close to Mr. Mattis, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they said they were wary of undercutting him, said he was still sharply opposed to the Muslim ban. But he spent this week battling the White House on other issues, including the establishment of safe zones in Syria, something the Pentagon has long opposed because it would deepen American involvement in the war there, out of the executive order.

Military officials sought to distance the Pentagon from the immigration ban, and focused instead on the second executive order that Mr. Trump signed at the Pentagon, which called for plans to improve military readiness. Mr. Mattis, standing behind Mr. Trump, took only the ceremonial pen that Mr. Trump used to sign the military readiness order. Mr. Trump gave the other one to Vice President Mike Pence.

Afterward, the Defense Department put out a statement about Mr. Trumps visit to the Pentagon that pointedly made no mention of the Muslim ban. The secretary shares the presidents goal of ensuring our military leaders have the support they need to accelerate the campaign against ISIS, and to build combat readiness now and for the future, Capt. Jeff Davis, the Pentagon spokesman, said in the statement.
WASHINGTON  The F.B.I. had a job offer for Nick Young, a veteran Washington transit officer: Become an undercover informant for the bureau and gather information at local mosques on fellow Muslims who might pose a terrorism threat.

The clandestine work would be a lot sexier than his current job, Mr. Young remembered an agent named Ryan telling him. And it could pay him a lot of money if the intelligence was good.

Mr. Young turned him down. But it would not be the last time he would see the F.B.I. agent.

Last August, five years later, Mr. Young was summoned to the headquarters of the transit agency, Metro, where Ryan and other agents were waiting for him. You probably dont recognize me, do you? Ryan, whose beard was now thicker, asked him. Oh, I recognize you, Mr. Young said. This time, the agent handcuffed Mr. Young on a charge of supporting the Islamic State  a case built, in a twist, by an informant who posed as a would-be terrorist fighter.

The prosecution of Mr. Young, the only law enforcement officer among more than 100 Americans who have been accused of helping the Islamic State, offers a revealing look at the F.B.I.s shadowy cat-and-mouse efforts to identify possible Islamic extremists. President Trump has vowed to intensify the effort as part of a campaign to annihilate the militant group.
WASHINGTON  A federal judge in Brooklyn came to the aid of scores of refugees and others who were trapped at airports across the United States on Saturday after an executive order signed by President Trump, which sought to keep many foreigners from entering the country, led to chaotic scenes across the globe.

The judges ruling blocked part of the presidents actions, preventing the government from deporting some arrivals who found themselves ensnared by the presidential order. But it stopped short of letting them into the country or issuing a broader ruling on the constitutionality of Mr. Trumps actions.

The high-stakes legal case played out on Saturday amid global turmoil, as the executive order signed by the president slammed shut the borders of the United States for an Iranian scientist headed to a lab in Massachusetts, a Syrian refugee family headed to a new life in Ohio and countless others across the world.

The presidents order, enacted with the stroke of a pen at 4:42 p.m. Friday, suspended entry of all refugees to the United States for 120 days, barred Syrian refugees indefinitely, and blocked entry into the United States for 90 days for citizens of seven predominantly Muslim countries: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.
After hugs and snapshots and many professions of welcome and thanks, the group at the airport dispersed. The refugees headed to their new home with a few escorts, the synagogue members back to their far more stable lives. Just before they parted, Rabbi Lowenstein gathered his congregants and gave them a charge.

If this is the last group of refugees to get in, we will show them the best of America, he said.

The family was driven to its new home, where a meal and a Syrian-style semolina cake were waiting. The couple said they had not checked the news since landing in the United States, and no one from the volunteer group had told them what was about to happen. Moments before they arrived at the cozy, fully stocked apartment, Mr. Trump, wearing an American flag pin, signed the orders in front of an audience of his advisers and Pentagon officials. As he finished, the clapping in the room was loud.

Behind him hung an oversize medal depicting the Statue of Liberty, a beacon of welcome.
A group of Nobel Prize winners said it would damage American leadership in higher education and research. House Speaker Paul D. Ryan and some relatives of Americans killed in terrorist attacks said it was right on target. An evangelical Christian group called it an affront to human dignity.

The reaction on Saturday to President Trumps ban on refugees entering the United States, with particular focus on certain Muslim countries in the Middle East and Africa, was swift, certain  and sharply divided.

The order drew sharp and widespread condemnation Saturday from Democrats, religious groups, business leaders, academics and others, who called it inhumane, discriminatory and akin to taking a wrecking ball to the Statue of Liberty. Thousands of professors, including several Nobel laureates, signed a statement calling it a major step towards implementing the stringent racial and religious profiling promised on the campaign trail.

Thousands of protesters rushed to airports to demand the release of people who were being held on arrival. The protesters erupted in cheers Saturday night when a federal judge in Brooklyn ruled that the government could not immediately send the travelers back.
Nada, Iraq

Nada, a Yazidi woman from Iraq, was on her way to be reunited with her husband, Khalas, who lives in Washington. The two of them, their last names not released, were granted special immigrant visas to the United States as part of a program created to help thousands of Iraqis with ties to the United States, according to The New Yorker. Khalas, a former interpreter for the United States Army, was granted his visa in April. Nadas visa was approved about a week ago, and her passport on Thursday.

She was turned away, however, when she arrived at the gate for her flight in Dubai, wrote Kirk W. Johnson, the founder and executive director of the List Project to Resettle Iraqi Allies. The flight crew sent her back, Khalas texted Mr. Johnson, saying they got orders that no Iraqis with American visas should be boarded.

Sarah Assalis family, Syria

Ms. Assali, 25, a third-year medical student from Allentown, Pa., said six of her Syrian relatives had arrived in Philadelphia on a flight from Doha, Qatar, on Saturday morning, only to be detained and put on a flight back less than three hours later. The group had obtained family-based immigrant visas.

Ms. Assali said in a telephone interview that her six relatives  two uncles, two aunts and two teenage cousins, whom she did not name out of fear of endangering them or their case  are Christians who live in Damascus. Her father was on his way to pick up the relatives from the airport when he got a call from a customs official, she said, who said his family would not be leaving the airport. They told him theyre not coming out, and to just go back. Ms. Assali said. And that its confidential and he cant tell them why. They said it was an issue with their paperwork.

Hameed Khalid Darweesh, Iraq

Mr. Darweesh, a husband and father of three who worked for the United States military in Iraq for about a decade, was detained after arriving at Kennedy Airport on Friday night. He was granted a special immigrant visa on Jan. 20. When he filed for it, he said he had been directly targeted because of his work for the United States as an interpreter, engineer and contractor.

Mr. Darweesh was released on Saturday after lawyers filed a writ of habeas corpus in federal court seeking freedom for him, as well as for another Iraqi detained at the airport.

Speaking to reporters and some protesters who gathered outside Kennedy Airport, Mr. Darweesh called the United States the greatest nation in the world. He said he was thankful for the people who had worked on his behalf. This is the humanity, this is the soul of America, he said. This is what pushed me to move, leave my country and come here.
The draft orders are now being withheld for a more complete review by a number of agencies, including the State Department, which is expected to begin as early as next week.

The draft order on the United Nations funding, according to copies acquired by The New York Times, called for at least a 40 percent overall decrease in contributions by the United States to the world body and its agencies. Much of this funding currently goes to international peacekeeping operations and other core United Nations missions. The draft order would have allowed for similar cuts to other international organizations, but it did not name them.

Some provisions in the draft order were either unclear or redundant. For example, one suggested considering cuts in funding toward the International Criminal Court, but the United States does not recognize that body or make contributions to it. Another called for the termination of funding for any United Nations agency that grants full membership to a Palestinian representative, which is already United States law.

Nikki R. Haley, the new American ambassador to the United Nations, said in comments at the United Nations headquarters on Friday, Youre going to see a change in the way we do business.

Ms. Haley added, For those who dont have our backs, were taking names.

President Trump expressed antipathy toward the United Nations during the campaign.
TEHRAN  As Iranians woke on Saturday to the news that none of them would be able to enter the United States for at least 90 days, on the orders of President Trump, panic reigned.

They were turned back from flights to the United States in Tehran and in the major transfer hubs of Istanbul and Dubai. Some of those who arrived in the United States after midnight, when the decree went into effect, were held or deported, rights groups and airline representatives said.

No one, not passengers, airline representatives or even United States border control officials, seemed to know how to interpret the executive order that went into effect at midnight on Friday. Under the new policy, refugees, immigrants and almost anyone from seven countries deemed to be hotbeds of terrorism are banned from the United States for 90 days, pending a review of policies.

Officials are just interpreting the directive by themselves, said one representative for an international airline who was based in Tehran. He said the airline did not know if Iranians could fly to the United States or not.
With so few male descendants left in the line of succession, Mr. Abe suggested on Friday that other branches of the former imperial family could be accorded a status that would allow men in their lines to ascend to the throne. The largest opposition party, the Democratic Party, has proposed changing the law to allow women to reign.

Until the 20th century, emperors kept concubines in order to ensure the birth of male heirs. No one has proposed reviving that practice.

Japan is one of the few monarchies that do not allow women to reign. According to Naotaka Kimizuka, professor of European history and politics at Kanto Gakuin University, successors to the throne in the Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden, Norway and Spain are all young women.

While the Japanese stipulation that the throne must pass through the male line dates back to the Meiji era in the 19th century, historians trace the dawn of the imperial system to the fourth or fifth century, although Japanese myth traces the emperors lineage back 2,700 years. In the 125 generations that have been recorded since, eight women were allowed to rule as empresses when no adult men were eligible at the time.

Age or marital status ensured that these empresses did not bear children who would be fathered by men outside the imperial line, and they effectively served as placeholders until a man with a patrilineal claim came of age. The last empress, Gosakuramachi, reigned from 1762 to 1770 before her nephew succeeded her.

Isao Tokoro, professor emeritus of legal history at Kyoto Sangyo University and an expert on the history of the imperial family, said that in the seventh and eighth centuries, Japanese law actually allowed women to reign as empresses. But that changed when Japan imported some tenets of government from China, adopting the concept of a male-only lineage for emperors. Even Japanese myth points to a female origin story for the imperial line: The first emperor, Jimmu, is said to have descended from the sun goddess Amaterasu 2,700 years ago.

Japan will be laughed at in the world if we keep saying only men can inherit the throne, Mr. Tokoro said.
ULAN BATOR, Mongolia  Thousands of Mongolians stood in frigid weather on Saturday for the second time this winter to demand that the government strengthen its response to the smog that routinely blankets Ulan Bator, the capital.

About 7,000 people, many in air masks and gas masks under thick winter hats, braved temperatures below minus 4 Fahrenheit. Standing in the citys central Sukhbataar Square, they held black balloons and protest signs.

Ulan Bator is one of the worlds coldest capitals, and more than half of the citys 1.3 million residents rely on burning raw coal, plastic, rubber tires and other materials to stay warm and cook meals in their homes. In poor neighborhoods that ring the city, known as ger districts, herders and others live in traditional round tents without heating, leaving them to burn polluting fuels.

Unicef, said last year that Ulan Bator was one of the worlds 10 most polluted cities and that the lungs of children in the most polluted areas did not function as well as those of children in rural areas, putting them at risk of chronic respiratory illnesses.
KABUL, Afghanistan  The Afghan government faces a peculiar problem in at least two major provinces: It provides precious electricity, some of it imported at costly rates from neighboring countries, but Taliban militants collect most of the bills.

If the government cuts off power, it will further anger a population that is already disenchanted. If it does not, the revenue from the power will continue to provide more income to an already emboldened Taliban.

The Taliban, fighting the Afghan government and a large international military coalition, have long tapped into Afghanistans lucrative drug trade and illegal mining, in addition to the streams of donations they receive from supporters abroad, mainly in the Persian Gulf states.

But as they have taken over increasingly large areas in the past two years, they have found new ways of diversifying and collecting revenue, according to interviews with officials, Taliban commanders and local residents.
Europe is facing multiple tribulations in 2017, engulfed in uncertainties over terrorism, borders, migration, economics and President Trumps new America First message booming from across the Atlantic.

Its not the first time Europe has been challenged by crisis, said Anna-Lena Hogenauer, a researcher at the Institute of Political Science at the University of Luxembourg, but theres definitely a combination of crises.

Here are some of the potentially disruptive issues and events looming for the year that could reshape  or at least deepen  the fractures in the European Union, a 28-nation bloc of more than a half-billion people and the worlds largest single free-trade zone.

Will Brexit cause instability?



Negotiations for Britains exit from the European Union, known as Brexit, the outcome of a referendum last June, could officially start by the end of March, a self-imposed deadline set by Prime Minister Theresa May. But the run-up to those negotiations  further complicated by a Supreme Court ruling that Ms. May needs Parliaments approval to begin the process  has created enormous uncertainties. They include how European Union citizens residing in Britain  and the British citizens residing in other European Union countries  will work and live if they cannot freely traverse borders as they do now.
ROME  It began as a fight over staffing. Then came a dispute about condoms, followed by papal concerns about Freemasons. Now it has become a full-scale proxy war between Pope Francis and the Vatican traditionalists who oppose him, with the battleground being a Renaissance palace flanked by Jimmy Choo and Hermes storefronts on Via dei Condotti, Romes most exclusive street.

The palace is the headquarters of the Knights of Malta, the medieval Roman Catholic order. For months, an ugly, if quiet, spat over staffing simmered behind the orders walls before spilling across the Tiber River to the Vatican, setting off a back-and-forth between the two camps. Francis and his lieutenants sent angry letters. The Knights ignored them, claiming sovereignty.

This past week, the dispute finally blew up. Fed up, Francis took the extraordinary steps of demanding the resignation of the orders leader  a decision the Knights officially accepted Saturday  and announcing that a papal delegate would step in.

Conservatives promptly denounced what they called an illegal annexation and ideological purging by a power-obsessed pontiff, while liberal observers saw the whole episode as resulting from an act of subterfuge by the popes most public critic within the Vatican hierarchy, Cardinal Raymond Burke, an American.
Laith al-Samari, 37, was one of many who could not believe it. A former interpreter for the United States military, he was wounded twice in battle, in the leg and stomach, and now lives in fear of retaliation from anti-American militants in his Baghdad community. He was not ashamed to beg.

Please Mr. President, you are the president of one of the biggest states in the world, he said. Dont be hasty in taking this decision. Be fair with us.

Mustafa, the 28-year-old Iraqi, is a Shiite Muslim who worked on construction crews on American bases, mostly on fortifications. As he put it: I made homes for them that kept them safe. I felt I was doing something good for humanity.

But anti-Shiite militias in his neighborhood discovered what his job had been and accused him of treason. I was beaten and shot and knifed and eventually came to Lebanon two years ago, he said, during an interview arranged in Beirut by the International Refugee Assistance Project, a New York-based legal aid group.

After years of interviews and investigation, Mustafa said he was finally told to take his medical examination and now only needed to be given the date for his flight, to California. To get ready, Mustafa splurged at a high-end Beirut store to buy the clothes he would wear into his new life: dark green pants, a vest, a checked shirt in four colors. I would wear the best clothes I have, and I wouldnt take anything else with me, not even my memories, he said.

Mustafa still has some hope that somehow exceptions will be made, which is why  like most of the refugees interviewed for this article  he did not want his full name published.
You might remember, back in February last year there was mass outrage over a group of tourists killing a tiny baby dolphin because they swarmed to take selfies with it. It tragically passed away due to dehydration, after the tourists kept passing around so they could each get photographs with it.

Now, were heartbroken to report that its happened a second time, again in Argentina.

While the identical incident last year was at a beach in the resort town of Santa Teresita, the most recent death was located in San Bernardo.

Tourists allegedly dragged the dolphin out of the ocean, after it swam towards the shore.

A blurry Youtube video shows a crowd surrounding the tiny animal and petting and cuddling the mammal, and taking photos of it.

Otra vez mataron a un delfin en San Bernardo. Sacaron al animal del mar para sacarse fotos. pic.twitter.com/4qzYnWvKiH  C5N (@C5N) January 23, 2017

A witness of the heartbreaking incident told Argentinian news channel C5N:

They let him die. He was young and came to the shore. They could have returned him to the waterin fact, he was breathing. But everyone started taking photos and touching him. They said he was already dead.

Lets not get it twisted  animals are very cute and excellent. Lets not kill them for selfies.

National Geographic puts it best in their fantastic piece, The Dark Side of Trendy Animal Photos:

Social media has changed the landscape, making exotic animals seem adorable and acceptable, but what you dont see is the suffering that lies behind the images. Makingand sharingthese images and videos puts the animals at risk by heightening their appeal as pets and giving the impression that its fun (and safe) to get close to them.

Source: National Geographic / Twitter.

Photo: Hernan Coria / Facebook.
George Kanan Wins Aussie Millions Tournament of Champions

January 27, 2017 Frank Op de Woerd

The Tournament of Champions was another tournament with a twist. It was open to everyone, but former Aussie Millions Main Event champions would play rake free.

The single reentry event attracted a field of 203, resulting in a big prize pool of AUD$208,075. The top 24 of those would finish in the money.

With the added bonus of not having to pay any rake, the event saw four entries by former champions. 2011 Aussie Millions champion David Gorr, 2016 winner Ari Engel and 2015 victor Manny Stavropoulos all entered, with the latter giving it another go after busting out early.

The final table was an international gathering, with, besides the German, players from Canada, Finland, the United States and New Zealand.

Unfortunately for all three of them, their rake free entry did not result in a paid spot. They all busted before the money.

Local player Matt Rolfe would bubble the final table, going home in 11th place for AUD$3,640.

One of the first players to exit the final table was Martin Finger; the German European Poker Tour champion and regular high roller participant departed in ninth place for AUD$5,200.

The final table was an international gathering with, besides the German, players from Canada, Finland, the United States and New Zealand.

Despite their best efforts, the players from overseas did not make it to the heads-up as the mano-a-mano battle would be one between two Aussies. George Kanan from Sydney went head to head with David Loonstra from Melbourne for the first-place prize of AUD$51,000. Kanan would end up supreme, beating Loonstra in second who had to settle for AUD$33,300.

Position Player Country Prize 1 George Kanan Australia AUD$51,000 2 David Loonstra Australia AUD$33,300 3 Jack Efaraimo New Zealand AUD$21,430 4 Francis John Rusnak United States AUD$16,645 5 Matti Konttinen Finland AUD$13,525 6 Amit Shorey Australia AUD$10,925 7 Glen Chadwick Australia AUD$8,840
2017 News Archive

This page includes links to all the news articles published on pokernews.com during 2017. For your convenience, the articles are segmented by month.
Boyer's "Death at the Presidents Church" Begins New Washington, D.C. Based-Series

Death at the Presidents Church

Media Contact

Patricia Rockwell

***@aol.com Patricia Rockwell

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-- Cozy Cat Press is pleased to announce the publication of the first in a new series of cozy mysteries by Allen B. Boyer,, a Dupree Sisters' mystery. The church featured in the book is St. John's Episcopal Church, a Washington, D.C., landmark where newly-elected President Donald J. Trump worshipped on the morning of his inauguration.Boyer is the author of two Young Adult novels and one nonfiction book about the West Point Academy and its famous graduates. His Bess Bullock Retirement Home mystery series produced five books for Cozy Cat Press. He lives near Hershey, Pennsylvania, with his wife, Suzanne, and their three children. He likes to take his children and their dog to visit residents at a nearby retirement home.Boyer says, "I live near the Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Over the years, one sight that I've seen is what the Amish call a barn raising, where a good many families from the community come together to help someone construct a barn. It's an impressive thing to witness how quickly the barn is built when all the right people and all the right resources come together. I think the same concept applies to starting a new book series. When the right ideas and the right creative energy come together, good things happen. For the last few years I've had the great pleasure of writing the Bess Bullock Retirement Home series. While those books have been successful for my publisher, Cozy Cat Press, there was another book series in the back of my mind that needed to be developed."is the first book in a new series that I began after meeting a very nice woman named Charlotte Bouton. Well into her seventies, Charlotte had been a political insider. She spoke passionately about Washington politics and didn't hesitate to speak her mind on political figures. As a young woman, she worked in the House of Representatives, worked with some famous political figures, and always had season tickets to cheer on her Washington Redskins. In my mind," says Boyer, "she was the perfect person to build a character around."Thus the character of Charlotte Dupree was born. Paired with her sister Ruth, the two women find themselves drawn to the death of a homeless man on the steps of their church. Using their social connections, as well as their experiences with former presidents, Charlotte and Ruth begin to unravel a mystery that leads them from a downtown homeless shelter to one of the most influential families in Washington.Boyer created the Dupree sisters--and thus a new cozy mystery series. About the sisters, he says, "They have met many presidents. They are politically well connected. They were born and raised in the social circles of Washington D.C.." In this first book, the sisters become embroiled in the death of a homeless man that occurred on the steps of their church. The character of Charlotte Dupree is the older. Along with her sister Ruth, the two women find themselves drawn into the death of a homeless man that occcurred on the steps of their church. Using their social connections, as well as their experiences with former presidents, Charlotte and Ruth begin to unravel a mystery that leads them from a downtown homeless shelter to one of the most influential families in Washington. Using their observations about the presidents they've met, along with their usual charm, the Dupree sisters navigate through a labyrinth of Washington luncheons, social events and gossip to uncover the truth behind a death that most people would overlook.Readers can join the Dupree sisters as they look into this murder with strong-willed persistence and, of course, good manners.is available online at Amazon.com in both print ($14.95) and ebook ($2.95) formats. Visit Cozy Cat Press at: http://www.cozycatpress.com for further information."I hope you enjoy, as much as I enjoyed writing it," says Boyer. Look for another installment of the Dupree sisters' adventures in the near future.
Since 2003, Mid America TEEN CERT has trained thousands of teen and adult students how to prepare for and respond to emergencies safely and efficiently without putting themselves or others in unnecessary danger.

By: Mid America TEEN CERT

Contact

S. Speth

***@wellsfargoadvisors.com S. Speth

End

-- Since 2003, Mid America TEEN CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) has been training students how to answer the call of duty when a natural or man-made disaster happens. The basic 22-hours of intensive training teaches students how to handle most medical emergencies, extinguish fires and perform searches; but most importantly, students learn to manage stress, assist with peers and people with special and functional physical needs, and recognize signs and symptoms of disaster-related psychological issues.This coupled with the fact that Mid America TEEN CERT (or MATC) presents 6-8 classes per year, in addition to participating in numerous charitable and philanthropic events, has earned the program the top spot as community emergency preparedness and response training program in Missouri for the sixth straight year. The program, established under FEMA in 2007, was also named for the second year in a row as the No. 1 Emergency Preparedness Program and Child and Youth Emergency Program for Outstanding Achievement in Youth Preparedness in America in 2016.Mid America presently has over 1500 trained graduates and a backlog of roughly 40 future classes to be scheduled; from Boy and Girl Scouts, 4-H, church groups, high schools and other specialty and civic organizations. Even though the program is based in St. Charles County, Missouri, MATC travels anywhere the training is requested around the nation.Currently, the 2017 training season has five firm classes schedule, with another three pending final approval as of this writing. The training classes include:Mid America TEEN CERT is rooted in the national CERT curriculum with many beneficial and practical enhancements made to reflect increased emphasis on self, family, community and school. Improvements were made to the course to include the requirements of several Boy and Girl Scout badges that the youth can earn. For instance, upon successful completion of TEEN CERT, eligible Boy Scouts received not only a state-approved certificate of achievement, they have the opportunity to earn several merit badges, including Emergency Preparedness, First Aid, Fire Safety, Safety, Disabilities Awareness, Search and Rescue and Wilderness Survival. Presently, Mid America is the only program offering this unique opportunity in the U.S. The program trains anyone over the age of 12 years old and roughly 45% of the more than 1500 graduates are adults.More about TEEN CERT program can be located on Facebook at Official TEEN CERT www.facebook.com/ groups/MIDAMERICATEENCERT/
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-- Menchie's, North America's largest self-serve frozen yogurt franchise, is celebrating National Frozen Yogurt Day, February 6, by gifting fans with Buy One Frozen Yogurt, Get One Free all day. No coupons are necessary to enjoy this sweet deal. As an added bonus, fans who come in and celebrate with Menchie's will receive a Buy One Get One Free coupon to use on their next visit, valid February 7 through February 28, while supplies last."We love celebrating National Frozen Yogurt Day with our fans; it's our favorite day of the year," said Amit Kleinberger, CEO of Menchie's. "We have the best fans  they have been loyal to us since we opened our first store nearly 10 years ago, so what better way to give back to them than with free frozen yogurt. We can't wait to spread smiles with the people who make us smile every day."In February, Menchie's is also partnering with HERSHEY, a global confectionery leader and the largest chocolate manufacturer in North Americafor a limited time flavor, HERSHEY'S KISSES MILK CHOCOLATE.Made with real HERSHEY'S KISSES, this flavor is the perfect addition to celebrate the month of love. Guests are also in for a treat with the arrival of. Made with real blackberries, this flavor contains no high fructose corn syrup, no artificial flavors and no artificial colors.For more information regarding Menchie's, including the National Frozen Yogurt Day deal, store locations, or franchising opportunities, please visit www.menchies.com . Connect with Menchie's at www.Facebook.com/ MyMenchie's ,www.Instagram.com/MyMenchies/, www.Twitter.com/MyMenchies.Menchie's creates lasting memories by providing an unparalleled guest experience with a mission to make every guest smile. Menchie's is a world-leader of ensuring best-in-class products and is the ambassador of frozen yogurt quality worldwide. With 550 stores, the franchise has locations open in the United States, Canada, China, Japan, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, India, and more. Menchie's expects to celebrate 600 stores in 2017. Guaranteeing happiness in every cup, the brand offers guests premium rotating yogurt flavors and delicious toppings for unlimited combinations in every bite. The proprietary collection is made from the milk of "smiley" California cows, which have not been treated with artificial growth hormones (rBST). Menchie's frozen yogurt contains live and active cultures and has received the Live and Active Culture (LAC) seal indicating its endorsement by the National Yogurt Association.
By: Vision Strike Wear

Contact

4802 SW Scholls-Ferry Rd Ste C

Portland, OR 97225

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-- More like hatched with iron and wood and then fed to the wolves had the opportunity presented it. The words of patriots then meant life and death and the balance of a nation hung in the balance."Give Me Liberty Or Give Me Death!"To avoid the possible interference from then Lieutenant-Governor Dunmore and his Royal Marines, the Second Virginia Convention met back on March 20, 1775 inland at Richmondin what is presnrly referred to as St. John's Churchinstead of what was then the Capitol in Williamsburg. The delegate Patrick Henry presented a variety of resolutions to raise and bring forth a militia, and to put Virginia in a posture of self defense. Henry's opponents of course urged caution and patience until the English crown replied to Congress' latest petition for reconciliation.On the 23rd of the month, Patrick Henry presented a proposal to organize a volunteer company of cavalry or infantry in every Virginia county. An account and start of what Virginia would later do again in its near future. By custom, Henry addressed himself to the Convention's President, Peyton Randolph of Williamsburg, VA. Henry's words were not transcribed but thankfully due to his word being ever so eloquent were never forgotten, or Henry's closing words: "Give me liberty, or give me death!"Henry's first biographer, William Wirt of Maryland, was three-years-old in 1775. An assistant federal prosecutor in Aaron Burr's trial for treason at Richmond in 1807, and later attorney general of the United States, Wirt began to collect materials for the biography in 1808, nine years after Henry's death.Found At http://www.vision- strike-wear.com/ 404.asp?404; http://vision- strike-wear.com: 80/United-States- Army-Give-Me- Liberty-Or-Give- Me-Death-Shirt.html a part of the military line of unique military gifts found at VSW.
Cheap Flights to Armenia Zvartnots International Airport

Tucked in the high Caucasus Mountains, Armenia is a small country that belies its diminutive size with a fascinating ancient culture and some of the most wildly beautiful scenery in either Europe or Asia. Flights to Armenia land in Zvartnots International Airport (EVN), which is the gateway to exploring this wonderful country, located just outside the capital city of Yerevan. Travelers can wander through 1,500-year-old monasteries built in the shadow of Mount Ararat or indulge in delicious pastries and coffee at a sidewalk cafe and enjoy learning new things about this historic country and its generous people.



Armenia Zvartnots International Airport

Just nine miles west of Yerevan, Armenia's capital city, Zvartnots International Airport (EVN) handles all cheap flights to Armenia. Major carriers include Aeroflot, Lufthansa, Air France, Czech Airlines and Iran Air. Armenia has no internal flights, so all passengers use the international terminal and will find shops, restaurants, free Wi-Fi and passenger services there. The N107 bus departs regularly from the airport to drop passengers in the center of Yerevan. There are also abundant taxis that charge around $10 for a ride into the city. Travelers can also rent cars at the airport for touring the country.



Attractions in Armenia

The ancient city of Yerevan is the country's capital and its proximity to the airport makes it a natural stop on any visit to Armenia. While much of the city expanded under Soviet guidance and bears the hallmark of that architectural influence, there are many fascinating ancient sites scattered across the city that bear testament to its great age. The Erebuni Fortress is a 3,000-year-old site with artifacts lending insight into its past that will keep history buffs enthralled. The Matenadaran is a museum housing ancient illuminated manuscripts from Armenia's ancient Christian past that is also worth a visit.



For a change of pace, visitors can stop by the Ararat Cognac Factory, where the process of manufacturing is explained during an interesting tour that ends with a tasting of the final product and a chance to buy bottles to take home as souvenirs. Lover's Park is beautifully landscaped in Japanese style, and visitors may be lucky enough to catch an open-air concert or art show there.



Hints and Tips for Visiting Armenia

Armenia's varied topography lends it a changeable climate, but the warm summer months tend to reach the 90s and last from April to September. Winters are short but temperatures can drop to the 30s during the daytime, and snow is a possibility for several months of the year. The Russian influence on Armenia from its Soviet days left a mark on the cuisine in the form of the delicious soup known as borscht, which is served with fresh cream in Armenian eateries. Kebabs, known as khorovats, stuffed grape leaves and an array of pretty pastries are also common fare in restaurants, and a two-course meal for two people will run about $12 in a good restaurant. Each weekend, there's a market held at the Vernissage, which is where rugs, handicrafts and food that are distinctly Armenian can be found.
Discover Belgium

Cheap Flights to Belgium

Belgium is a country that many food lovers and beer fanatics want to visit. The country is known for its mouthwatering waffles, fries, chocolate, and Lambic beer. Travelers are also fascinated by Belgium's stunning castles, landscapes, and stone-built villages. Bouillon Castle, also called Chateau de Bouillon, dates back to the 8th century and was the home of Duke Godefroy de Bouillon.

Flights to Belgium

Two popular airports when you fly to Belgium are Brussels Airport (BRU) and Liege Airport (LGG). There are several shops, bars, and restaurants at Brussels Airport (BRU), and it offers special assistance for disabled passengers. Additional services provided by Brussels Airport (BRU) are baggage trolleys and free Wi-Fi. Places of worship for Catholicism, Protestantism, Orthodox, Judaism, and Islam are available at BRU. There is a meditation room for humanists as well. Business travelers have access to several meeting facilities at BRU that can seat 2 to 600 people. Ground transportation options from Brussels Airport (BRU) consist of car rental, limousine, taxi, train, bus, and hotel shuttle.

Liege Airport (LGG) has an on-site restaurant, a brasserie that serves snacks and drinks, and a duty-free shop. Transportation options from the airport include taxi, car rental, shuttle, and bus. The average cost of a taxi from LGG to downtown Liege is $33.97.

Attractions in Belgium

One of the regions you should explore when you fly to Belgium is Wallonia, an area filled with castles and stone-built villages. A major attraction in Belgium is Namur Citadel, one of Europe's most impressive fortified towns. The Caves of Han-Sur-Lesse make up another popular attraction where you can find fossils inside the underground caves. Travelers to Belgium are also amazed by Grote Markt, the central square in Brussels. It's surrounded by extravagant guildhalls, the Breadhouse building, and the city's town hall.

Brussels, Bruges, and Antwerp are three major cities in Belgium. Some of the best waffles and fries in the world are made in Brussels. Castle remnants are found throughout the city as well. Bruges is a smaller city that's perfect for couples and nicknamed "Venice of the North." It's a romantic city with an abundance of canals.

Travel Tips for Belgium

When you pack for a flight to Belgium, remember that the country has a temperate maritime climate. This means it has cool summers and moderate winters. It's cooler in eastern Belgium because of the hills. While in Belgium, it's important to remember that Belgians usually only discuss personal matters with close friends, and money is typically only discussed in business. Before conducting business with someone, Belgians like to get to know the person. Expect to go through a few social appointments before getting down to business.

Carnival of Binche is a major annual event that takes place in Binche, Belgium. Expect to see street performances and other traditional displays in Binche during February. Brussels Christmas Market and Christmas Village in Liege are two other fun annual events to participate in. There are many fine dining options in Brussels that serve Belgian, French, and Italian cuisine. You'll also find a few Asian restaurants in Antwerp. The average cost of a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant in Belgium is $63.57.
Nokia unveils its new digital assistant MIKA for engineers and telecom operators

After its foray into Android smartphones with Nokia 6, the Finnish telecommunications giant Nokia seems to have got its mojo back. It has created a customised digital assistant MIKA which it says will help engineers and telecom operators. Nokia says MIKA will increase the work efficiency by providing engineers faster access to critical information. The name MIKA stands for Multi-purpose Intuitive Knowledge Assistant, and lets engineers and telecom operators access information through voice commands.

MIKA is powered by the companys cognitive services platform, using augmented intelligence with automated learning to provide access to an extensive range of tools, documents and data sources. In layman language, MIKA is a digital assistant like Siri and OK Google and designed to provide quick answers to engineer questions, based on experience drawn from other networks. The only difference is unlike Siri or Alexa which can light up your smart bulbs and check on local weather or movies, MIKA will answer engineer questions.

MIKA taps into the power of the Nokia AVA platform to provide quick and accurate answers, avoiding time wasted on fruitless searches. It is customised to support the specific needs of telecoms, and can deliver recommendations based on experience from networks around the world, said Igor Leprince, Head of Global Services at Nokia, in a statement.

In addition to launching MIKA, Nokia introduces Predictive Repair, a service that will enable operators to reduce costs and improve network quality by moving away from break-fix approaches to hardware maintenance.

The care service can predict hardware failures and recommend replacements up to 14 days in advance, with up to 95% accuracy, the company said.

Nokia made the announcement about MIKA ahead of the much awaited Mobile World Congress. Nokia is also expected to showcase its latest Nokia Android smartphones and Android tablets at MWC.
This 16-Year-Old Rejected A Whopping $6 million Offer For His Website Which He Created In His Bedroom

Life is stranger than fiction and it sometimes brings some interesting news which may either make you sad or make you smile. One such news is about a British schoolboy was offered a whopping $6.72 million by American investors for a money-saving website he created in his bedroom at his parents house. Of course, this news will put a smile on your face but read what happened next. The teenager rejected their offer in the hope of making more money.

16-year-old Mohammed Ali rejected a $6.72 million offer for his website, weneed1.com because he believes that the site will be worth a lot more in future. Mohammed Ali is not new to either tech or big money has earned more than 40,000 after creating his own video game and a financial app for the stock market. The school kid from Yorkshire, UK has instead launched his own price comparison search engine with 60-year-old business partner Chris Thorpe.

According to Metro, a group of American investors made the $6.72 million offer for weneed1.com to Mohammed Ali just before Christmas We met the investors in London, they were a global data driven company, and they didnt realise I created all the technology involved. The main reason we rejected the offer was because, if the technology and concept is worth millions already, just think how much it will be worth once people use it, said Ali.

The youngster has big dreams for weneed1.com. I understand this is a big risk for me but I want to create this as a household name, and at the same time make something for myself, He says,

The big thing about what were doing is that there are no competitors  this is a real time money saving expert  its like a Bloomberg for the general public, He adds. According to Mohammed Ali, weneed1.com runs on an algorithm he developed. According to him, the algorithm provides real-time quotes instead of the normal pre-fixed quotes you find on insurance sites.

Lets hope weneed1.com does indeed make more than $6.72 million for Mohammed Ali and his partners in the coming days.
The following companies are subsidiares of Illinois Tool Works: A V Co 1 Limited, A V Co 2 Limited, A V Co 3 Limited, ACCU-LUBE Manufacturing GmbH - Schmiermittel und -gerate -, AIP/BI Holdings Inc., Accessories Marketing Holding Corp., Advanced Molding Company Inc., Allen France SAS, Alpine Engineered Products, Alpine Systems Corporation, Anaerobicos S.r.l., AppliChem GmbH, Avery Berkel France, Avery India Limited, Avery Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Avery Weigh Tronix, Avery Weigh-Tronix Finance Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix International Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix LLC, Avery Weigh-Tronix Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix Properties Limited, Avery Weigh-Tronix Suzhou Weighing Technology Co. Ltd., Azon Limited, B.C. Immo, Beijing Miller Electric Manufacturing Co. Ltd., Berkel Ireland Limited, Berrington UK, Brapenta Eletronica Ltda., Brooks Instrument B.V., Brooks Instrument GmbH, Brooks Instrument KFT, Brooks Instrument Korea Ltd., Brooks Instrument LLC, Brooks Instrument Shanghai Co. Ltd, Buell Industries Inc., CCI Realty Company, CFC Europe GmbH, CS Australia Pty Limited, CS Mexico Holding Company S DE RL DE CV, Calvia Spolka z Ograniczona Odpowiedzialnosci, Capital Ventures Australasia S.a r.l, Capmax Logistica S.A. de C.V., Celeste Industries Corporation, Coeur, Coeur Asia Limited, Coeur Holding Company, Coeur Inc., Coeur Shanghai Medical Appliance Trading Co. Ltd, Compagnie Hobart, Compagnie de Materiel et d'Equipements Techniques-Comet, Constructions Isothermiques Bontami C.I.B., Crane Carrier Company, Denison Mayes Group Limited, Despatch Industries, Diagraph Corporation Sdn. Bhd, Diagraph ITW Mexico S. de R.L. De C.V., Diagraph Mexico S.A. DE C.V., Dongguan Ark-Les Electric Components Co. Ltd., Dongguan CK Branding Co. Ltd., Duo Fast de Espana S.A.U., Duo-Fast Korea Co. Ltd., Duo-Fast LLC, E.C.S. d.o.o., E2M Production B.V.., E2M Technologies B.V.., E2M Technologies Inc.., ECS Cable Protection Sp. Zoo, ELRO Grosskuchen GmbH, ELRO Holding AG, ELRO-WERKE AG, Elro Group, Eltex-Elektrostatik-Gesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung, Envases Multipac S.A. de C.V., Eurotec Srl, Exhibit 21, FEG Investments L.L.C., Filtertek De Mexico Holding Inc., Filtertek De Mexico S.A. de C.V., Filtertek SAS, GC Financement SA, Gamko B.V., Gun Hwa Platech Taicang Co. Ltd., HOBART Gesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung, Hartness International, Hobart Andina S.A.S., Hobart Belgium B.V., Hobart Brothers International Chile Limitada, Hobart Brothers LLC, Hobart Dayton Mexicana S. de R.L. de C.V., Hobart Food Equipment Co. Ltd., Hobart International Singapore Pte. Ltd., Hobart Japan K.K., Hobart Korea LLC, Hobart LLC, Hobart Nederland B.V., Hobart Sales & Service Inc., Hobart Scandinavia ApS, Hobart Techniek B.V., Horis, ILC Investments Holdings Inc., ITW AEP LLC, ITW AOC LLC, ITW Aircraft Investments Inc., ITW Ampang Industries Philippines Inc., ITW Appliance Components EOOD, ITW Appliance Components S.A. de C.V., ITW Appliance Components S.r.l.a, ITW Appliance Components d.o.o., ITW Australia Holdings Pty Ltd, ITW Australia Property Holdings Pty Ltd., ITW Australia Pty Ltd, ITW Automotive Components Chongqing Co. Ltd., ITW Automotive Components Langfang Co. Ltd., ITW Automotive Japan K.K., ITW Automotive Korea LLC, ITW Automotive Parts Shanghai Co. Ltd, ITW Automotive Products GmbH, ITW Automotive Products Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., ITW Bailly Comte, ITW Befestigungssysteme GmbH, ITW Belgium B.V., ITW Brazilian Nominee L.L.C., ITW Building Components Group Inc., ITW CER, ITW CP Distribution Center Holland BV, ITW CS UK Ltd., ITW Canada Inc., ITW Celeste Inc., ITW Chemical Products Ltda, ITW Chemical Products Scandinavia ApS, ITW China Investment Company Limited, ITW Colombia S.A.S., ITW Construction Products AB, ITW Construction Products AS, ITW Construction Products ApS, ITW Construction Products CZ s.r.o., ITW Construction Products Italy Srl, ITW Construction Products OU, ITW Construction Products OY, ITW Construction Products Shanghai Co. Ltd., ITW Construction Products Singapore Pte. Ltd., ITW Construction Services Manila Inc., ITW Contamination Control B.V., ITW Contamination Control Wujiang Co. 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Ltd., ITW FEG Hong Kong Limited, ITW FEG do Brasil Industria e Comercio Ltda., ITW Fastener Products GmbH, ITW Fluids and Hygiene Solutions Ltda., ITW Food Equipment Group LLC, ITW GH LLC, ITW GSE ApS, ITW GSE Inc., ITW Gamma Sarl, ITW German Management LLC, ITW Global Investments Holdings LLC, ITW Global Investments Holdings Y Compania Sociedad en Comandita por Acciones, ITW Global Investments Inc., ITW Global Tire Repair Europe GmbH, ITW Global Tire Repair Inc., ITW Global Tire Repair Japan K.K., ITW Graphics Asia Limited, ITW Graphics Thailand Ltd., ITW Great Britain Investment & Licensing Holding Company, ITW Group France Luxembourg S.ar.l., ITW HLP Thailand Co. Ltd., ITW Holding Quimica B.C. S.L. Sole Shareholder Company, ITW Holdings Australia L.P., ITW Holdings I Limited, ITW Holdings II Limited, ITW Holdings III Limited, ITW Holdings IV Limited, ITW Holdings IX Limited, ITW Holdings Inc., ITW Holdings V Limited, ITW Holdings VI Limited, ITW Holdings VII Limited, ITW Holdings VIII Limited, ITW Holdings X Limited, ITW Holdings XI Limited, ITW ILC Holdings I Inc., ITW IPG Investments LLC, ITW Imaden Industria e Comercio Ltda., ITW India Private Limited, ITW International Holdings LLC, ITW Invest Holding GmbH, ITW Ireland Holdings Unlimited Company, ITW Ireland Unlimited Company, ITW Italy Holding Srl, ITW Japan Ltd., ITW Korea LLC, ITW LLC & Co. KG, ITW Limited, ITW Lys Fusion S.r.l., ITW Materials Technology Shanghai Co. Ltd., ITW Meritex Sdn. Bhd., ITW Metal Fasteners S.L., ITW Mexico Holding Company S. De R.L. de C.V., ITW Mexico Holdings LLC, ITW Morlock GmbH, ITW Mortgage Investments II Inc., ITW Mortgage Investments III Inc., ITW Mortgage Investments IV Inc., ITW Netherlands Administration BV, ITW Netherlands Beta B.V., ITW Netherlands Finance Alpha BV, ITW New Universal LLC, ITW New Zealand, ITW Ningbo Components & Fastenings Systems Co. Ltd., ITW Novadan Sp. Z.o.o., ITW PPF Brasil Adesivos Ltda., ITW Packaging Technology China Co. Ltd., ITW Participations S.a r.l., ITW Pension Funds Trustee Company, ITW Performance Polymers & Fluids Japan Co. Ltd., ITW Performance Polymers & Fluids Korea Limited, ITW Performance Polymers & Fluids OOO, ITW Performance Polymers ApS, ITW Performance Polymers Wujiang Co. Ltd., ITW Performance Polymers and Fluids Group FZE, ITW Peru S.A.C., ITW Poly Mex S. de R.L. de C.V., ITW Polymers Sealants North America Inc., ITW Pronovia s.r.o., ITW Pte. Ltd., ITW Qufu Automotive Cooling Systems Co. 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Limited, Instron France S.A.S., Instron GmbH, Instron Japan Company Ltd., Instron Korea LLC, Instron Shanghai Ltd., Instron Thailand Limited, International Leasing Company LLC, Isolenge - ITW Sistemas de Isolamento Termico Ltda., Itw Spraytec, KCPL Mauritius Holdings, Kester, Kleinmann GmbH, Krafft S.L., Loma Systems, Loma Systems BV, Loma Systems Canada Inc., Loma Systems sro, Lombard Pressings Limited, Lumex Inc., Lys Fusion Poland Sp. z.o.o., M&C Specialties Co., MAGNAFLUX GmbH, MEHB Holdings Limited, MGHG Property LLC, MTS 2 LLC., MTS 3 LLC., MTS China Holdings LLC, MTS Europe Holdings LLC, MTS Holdings France S.a.r.l., MTS Japan Ltd.., MTS Korea Inc.., MTS Systems China Co. Ltd., MTS Systems Corporation, MTS Systems Danmark ApS., MTS Systems Europe B.V., MTS Systems Finance C.V.., MTS Systems Germany GmbH, MTS Systems Holding B.V.., MTS Systems Hong Kong Incorporated, MTS Systems Limited, MTS Systems Norden Aktiebolag, MTS Systems S.r.l, MTS Systems., MTS Systems.., MTS Sytems Do Brazil, MTS Testing Solutions India Private Limited., MTS Testing Systems Canada Ltd., Manufacturing Avancee S.A., Meritex Technology Suzhou Co. Ltd., Meurer Verpackungssysteme GmbH, Miller Electric Mfg. LLC, Miller Insurance Ltd., NDT Holding LLC, NOVADAN APS, North Star Imaging Inc., Nova Chimica S.r.l., Orbitalum Tools GmbH, PENTA-91 OOO, PR. A. I. Srl, PT ITW Construction Products Indonesia, Pacific Concept Industries Limited Enping, Panreac Quimica S.L., Paslode Fasteners Shanghai Co. Ltd., Peerless Machinery Corp., Polyrey, Premark FEG L.L.C., Premark HII Holdings LLC, Premark International, Premark International LLC, Prolex Sociedad Anonima, QSA Global Inc., Quimica Industrial Mediterranea S.L., R&D Engineering A/S., R&D Prague s.r.o., R&D Steel ApS., R&D Test Systems A/S., R&D Tools and Structures A/S., RDGDK Engineering Private Limited, Ramset Fasteners Hong Kong Ltd., Rapid Cook LLC, Refrigeration France, S.E.E. Sistemas Industria E Comercio Ltda., ST Mexico Holdings LLC, Sealant Systems International Inc., Sentinel Asia Yuhan Hoesa, Shanghai ITW Plastic & Metal Co. Ltd, Simco Japan Inc., Simco Nederland B.V., Societe de Prospection et dInventions Techniques  SPIT, Speedline Holdings I Inc., Speedline Holdings I LLC, Speedline Technologies GmbH, Speedline Technologies Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Speedline Technologies Mexico Services S. de R.L. de C.V., Stokvis Celix Portugal Unipessoal LDA, Stokvis Danmark ApS, Stokvis Holdings S.A.R.L., Stokvis Promi s.r.o, Stokvis Prostick Tapes Private Limited, Stokvis Tapes B.V., Stokvis Tapes Benelux B.V., Stokvis Tapes Deutschland GmbH, Stokvis Tapes France, Stokvis Tapes Hong Kong Co. Limited, Stokvis Tapes Italia s.r.l., Stokvis Tapes Limited, Stokvis Tapes Limited Liability Company, Stokvis Tapes Norge AS, Stokvis Tapes Oy, Stokvis Tapes Polska Sp Z.O.O., Stokvis Tapes Shanghai Co. Ltd., Stokvis Tapes Sverige AB, Stokvis Tapes Taiwan Co. Ltd., Stokvis Tapes Tianjin Co. Ltd., Stolvis Holdings II S.A.R.L., Subsidiaries, Technopack Industria Comercio Consultoria e Representacoes Ltda., Teknek China Limited, Teknek Japan Limited, Teksaleco Ltd., The Miller Group Ltd, Thirode Grandes Cuisines Poligny, Tien Tai Electrode Co. Ltd., Tien Tai Electrode Kunshan Co. Ltd., Unichemicals Industria e Comercio Ltda., VR-Leasing Sarita GmbH & Co. Immobilien KG, VS European Holdco BV, Valeron Strength Films B.V., Veneta Decalcogomme S.r.l., Versachem Chile S.A., Vesta, Vesta Global Limited, Vesta Guangzhou Catering Equipment Co. Ltd, Viltronics Soltec, Vitronics Soltec B.V., Wachs Canada Ltd., Wachs Subsea LLC, Weigh-Tronix Canada ULC, Weigh-Tronix UK Limited, Wilsonart International Holdings LLC, Wynn Oil South Africa Pty Ltd., Wynn's Automotive France, Wynn's Belgium BVBA, Wynn's Italia Srl, Wynn's Mekuba India Pvt Ltd, and Zip-Pak International B.V..

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Last weekend, dolphin hunters in Taiji, Japan, made their biggest catch yet: a superpod of around 300 dolphins. Over the next few days, they tore the families apart, picking the youngest, prettiest dolphins to sell to marine parks - and tossing their traumatized family members back in the ocean when they were done. While the stories of many individual dolphins have emerged from the selection process, some of the saddest ones focus on the many mothers fighting to protect their babies from the hunters. And a recent video shows just how tragic that separation can be.

Liz Carter

The clip - which was recorded by Liz Carter, one of the many volunteers who travel to Taiji to document the heartbreaking event - shows a group of hunters selecting one of the dolphin calves for sale to an aquarium, and dragging him from his mother's side. The divers swim through a frantic knot of dolphins, who have been left for days without food while the selection process occurs, to grab a young baby. They hold his little thrashing body still, as he strains to get back to his mother.

Dodo Shows Wild Hearts Orphaned Deer Runs Back To The Wild With Her Best Friend

His mother can be seen circling the divers, panicking and frenzied with other members of her pod as she tries to reach her baby. "Oh my god," a woman, presumably Carter, can be heard saying behind the camera. "The mother's trying to follow him." But the hunters ignore the mother, carrying the little baby to the side of a boat where a net is waiting. With his mother watching, he's wrapped up, soon to be carried off forever to be sold as a performing dolphin. Every year, hundreds of whales and dolphins are rounded up in Taiji's annual hunt. The most attractive ones - many of them babies taken from their mothers' sides - are captured to be sold to aquariums and marine parks around the world; the hunters can bring in well over $100,000 USD for a trained dolphin.

A portion of the pod, trapped in the nets | Sea Shepherd

If the other dolphins are lucky, they'll be thrown back into the ocean. But in most cases, they're butchered for their meat, turning Taiji cove a bright red with blood. While some people claim the hunt is a tradition, it was only invented recently as a money-making scheme by some of the richest men in the area - large-scale dolphin hunts weren't even possible before the modern advent of powerboats. And the hunt has the backing of the city of Taiji; the nearby Taiji Whale Museum, which purchases some of the captured dolphins, is owned by the city.

The cove during a previous hunt | Oceanic Preservation Society

The area is heavily policed, preventing onlookers from intervening. But people like Carter are hoping that, by raising awareness about the individual stories in the middle of the slaughter, people around the world will step up to help. And this weekend's capture, of which this mother-baby pair was a part, might have been one of the biggest yet. "One hundred dolphins were stolen, some died from the process," Carter said. "Juveniles ripped from their mothers ... [and] the mother and child are desperately trying to stay together."
Earlier this week, border police in China made a devastating discovery. Near the Vietnam border, police stopped a freight truck for a routine check. When they opened the back, they found the frozen bodies of 70 crocodiles, and an additional 88 crocodile tails - a total of 158 dead crocodiles.

But these weren't just any kind of crocodile - they were Siamese crocodiles, one of the most critically endangered species in the world. A video shows police unpacking the animals' bodies from 16 foam boxes, lining them up on the ground. If they had reached their intended destination, the crocodiles' bodies probably would have been used to make handbags, wallets and shoes.

Dodo Shows Dodo Heroes Woman Devotes Her Life To The Stray Dogs Of Bali

"It's sickening to the soul," Gary Stokes, the Southeast Asia director of Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, told The Dodo. "Sadly, shipments such as these are a too-familiar sight." The border between China and Vietnam is a notorious location for smuggling animals into China, Stokes explained. Besides Siamese crocodiles, people have tried to bring in pangolins, elephant tusks and rhinoceros horns, even though doing so is technically illegal.

While it's unknown where the traffickers got the crocodiles, DJ Schubert, a wildlife biologist at the Animal Welfare Institute (AWI), believes they may have actually come from a farm - not the wild. "The video doesn't provide clear footage of the crocodiles, but they all seem to be around the same size, and they don't seem to be too beat up, suggesting that they came from a captive breeding facility," Schubert told The Dodo. "It can be a difficult life in the wild, so oftentimes, their hides will get scarred with fights from other crocodiles."

Even so, this kind of trade can be devastating to the species, Schubert said. "The problem with any captive breeding program, whether it's birds or anything else, is that it creates incentive for the product and the species, and that opens the door for individuals in criminal syndicates to traffic wild-caught specimens," Schubert explained. Another puzzling thing about this bust is how how some of the crocodiles' bodies are intact, while others have been reduced to their tails.

"I'm assuming that the people responsible for this illegal shipment were filling an order, and they were filling the order of multiple clients, and some wanted the full body and some wanted just the tail," Schubert said. However these endangered crocodiles were "ordered," Schubert speculates that they have suffered immensely. Not only would they have had a miserable life at the captive breeding facilities, but they were probably killed in an inhumane way. "They might have used a freezing technique to kill them," Schubert said.
Donald Trumps push against trade deals he says have devastated small-town U.S. workers is bringing disappointment to another key piece of his rural American coalition: Farmers and ranchers who heartily supported the president in hopes of less regulation and lower taxes.

Trumps decision Monday to pull out of the Trans-Pacific Partnership, which would have reduced tariffs and strengthened economic ties between the U.S. and 11 other countries, will cost the agriculture industry as much as $4.4 billion a year in potential sales, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation, the biggest U.S. farmer group.

Reopening talks over the North American Free Trade Agreement, which Trump has called a disaster and plans to bring up in a meeting later this month with the Mexican president, risks dealing an even bigger blow for agriculture, one of the few sectors of the American economy with a net trade surplus.

I feel nervous and anxious about what is next, said Ron Heck, who has 1,600 hectares of soybean and corn crops in central Iowa. I know that President Trump has concerns with manufacturing and he didnt take this step lightly, but now we have to wait and see what better deals can be negotiated.

Exports of corn, cotton, soybeans and other goods in the year that started Oct. 1 are estimated at $134 billion, the U.S. Department of Agriculture said in November. The three biggest destinations for U.S. farm products: China, Canada and Mexico. Adding to the malaise, the threat for exports comes at a time when U.S. farm incomes have already fallen for three straight years, the longest slump since 1977.

The prospect of Trumps presidency has always been a mixed bag for farm groups. Positions restricting immigration and trade were less popular, while that was balanced by hopes that reductions in regulations and taxes may offset any negative effects on the industry.

Voter differences

The split on key campaign issues illustrates the difference between farm voters and rural voters among Trump supporters, said Gary Blumenthal, president of World Perspectives Inc. in Washington. Farmers are iconic in American culture and influential on Capitol Hill, where agriculture groups give more dollars to candidates than the defense and transportation industries.

But manufacturing and service workers are more numerous in rural America, and Trumps message was more narrowly focused on their needs than they were to agricultures, Blumenthal said.

When Trump is talking about trade hes talking about factories, a big job generator in the industrial Midwest, where voters in small cities and rural areas gave Trump the victories that won him the White House, Blumenthal said. Agriculture is a different fit.

That may put farm groups in uncomfortable positions, and not just on trade, he said. Biofuel skeptics have found a home in the new administration, and conservative groups have called for less government spending on agricultural subsidies.

Concerted effort

In response, theres been a concerted effort to remind the White House about the importance of agriculture to the rural vote, Blumenthal said. Theres a feeling that once the administration puts two and two together theyll realize that agricultures important to jobs in rural areas, and trade is important to agriculture.

After Trump dumped TPP, the Farm Bureau said it was disappointed in the decision. The groups president, Zippy Duvall, a Georgia farmer and friend of the presidents Agriculture Secretary nominee, Sonny Perdue, said in a statement the administration needs to work immediately to do all it can to develop new markets for U.S. agricultural goods.

In lieu of TPP, the administration plans to pursue bilateral trade deals with individual countries that Trump believes will result in better deals for Americans, White House spokesman Sean Spicer said Monday at the daily press briefing.

We do understand that trade and TPP specifically were a campaign issue, said Tracy Brunner, president of the National Cattlemens Beef Association, and a fourth-generation rancher in Kansas.

Cattle and beef producers overwhelmingly supported Trump, even with his protectionist stance on trade, because they believed he was much more likely to lessen regulations than his rival Hillary Clinton, who also came out in opposition to TPP, Brunner said. Not having a trade deal like TPP costs the cattle industry $400,000 in sales a day lost to other countries with lower tariffs, such as Australia, according to the cattlemens group.

Trade is key both for commodity-crop groups, with as much as a third of products like soybeans and corn going to China, and the meat industry, where countries included in the TPP and NAFTA for more than 60 per cent of foreign purchases for U.S. red meat, according to the U.S. Meat Export Federation.

Key markets

In some of these key markets, the U.S. red-meat industry will remain at a serious competitive disadvantage unless meaningful market access gains are realized, Philip Seng, president of the USMEF, said in a statement. We urge the new administration to utilize all means available to return the United States to a competitive position.

Not every farm group said leaving TPP was a bad idea. The proposed agreement reflected a continuance of our nations deeply flawed trade agenda, the National Farmers Union, the second-largest farmer group and a trade-agreement critic, said in a statement. The organization, which has associated with Democratic Party policy positions in the past, said it was pleased with the Trump administrations move.

For now, farmer groups said they still have hope in the new president, looking forward to whats good for them while trying to change his mind on the less favourable.

We will work with the hand we were dealt, and we will continue to try to explain the benefits of trade in every avenue we have, Brunner of the cattle group said.

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John Hurt, a British actor who gave compelling depth to desperate, flawed and sometimes monstrously deformed characters in performances that captivated audiences and critics for more than five decades, has died. He was 77.

The actor announced in 2015 that he had pancreatic cancer. His agent, Charles McDonald, confirmed the death. No further details were immediately known. Hurt had recently appeared as a Catholic priest in the film Jackie opposite Natalie Portman.

The son of an Anglican vicar, Hurt discovered as a youth that he didnt go for God. But like his father, he once observed, he spent his life revealing to others certain truths about human nature.

His tools included an almost singularly expressive face, one that with age came to be defined by a rutted forehead and baggy, hooded eyes. His voice was a gravelly rasp, colored by excessive drink and smoke.

Hurt was widely admired for his range, intensity and empathy in portraying the most complicated and outcast lives. David Lynch, who directed the actor in his title role in The Elephant Man (1980), once called Hurt simply the greatest actor in the world.

After a promising start on stage, he found his first notable screen role in the Oscar-winning A Man for All Seasons (1966), which starred Paul Scofield as the martyred Englishman Thomas More.

The director, Fred Zinnemann, said he took a gamble casting the largely unknown Hurt as Richard Rich, a young lawyer and More disciple who betrays his mentor. I knew he was our man when I saw what explosive nervous energy he was capable of, Zinnemann wrote in a memoir.

That skittish tension remained Hurts calling card in his roughly 200 films and TV appearances that followed. He embraced mainstream hits, including the Harry Potter series  he played the wand-maker Ollivander  as well as more disquieting fare, such as Samuel Becketts Krapps Last Tape in which he gave, on stage and television, a tour-de-force depiction of a regretful writer.

Career highlights include the taut film 10 Rillington Place (1971), as a man of low mental faculties wrongly executed for murders committed by the British serial killer John Christie, and The Naked Civil Servant (1975), a British TV movie about the gay author and raconteur Quentin Crisp.

It was a very risky piece for an actor: a television play about an effeminate homosexual who is also an exhibitionist, he told the Sunday Times of London in 2000. Many people told me it would be the end of my career.

In another celebrated British miniseries, I, Claudius (1976), Hurt gave a terrifying portrayal of the Roman emperor Caligula, a mad degenerate who fancies himself a god. Two years later, Hurt received his first Oscar nomination, for his supporting role in Midnight Express as an English junkie abused by guards in a Turkish jail.

In the New Yorker, film critic Pauline Kael extolled Hurts power and control in roles that could have gone off the rails in dramatic excess. In Midnight Express, she wrote, he demonstrated such inner force that he can play the most passive of roles, as he does here (he barely moves a muscle), and still transfix the audience. . . . Hes an almost burned-out light bulb with just a few dim flashes of the filament left. Yet hes the most moving character in the film.

Although he lost the supporting Oscar bid to Christopher Walken in The Deer Hunter, Hurt had appeared on Hollywoods radar and was cast in Ridley Scotts sci-fi thriller Alien (1979), a box-office grand slam.

The movie provided Hurt with a graphically memorable role, as a space voyager whose stomach explodes after an extraterrestrial burrows into him. (He would lampoon that scene in Mel Brookss 1987 film, Spaceballs, with his character lamenting, Oh, no, not again!)

One of his most touching performances came in The Elephant Man, which Lynch directed and Brooks helped produce. Hurt played a Victorian-era Englishman whose grotesque disfigurement led to his years of exploitation as a carnival freak.

Hurt underwent six hours of makeup application each day to play Joseph Merrick  called John in the film  a man of dignity, tenderness and refinement underneath his deformity.

In one of the films most notable sequences, Merrick is cornered by a mob into a train station urinal and collapses while shouting, I am not an elephant! I am not an animal! I am a human being! I am a man!

Hurts performance garnered an Oscar nomination for a leading role, but he lost to Robert De Niro as boxer Jake LaMotta in Raging Bull.

Hurt also played such haunted characters from literature as Fyodor Dostoyevskys Raskolnikov in Crime and Punishment (1979), and he was superb as Winston Smith, a rebellious employee of the Ministry of Truth, in Nineteen Eighty-Four (1984), based on the George Orwell book about a totalitarian future.

He was Jesus at the Last Supper, confused by an intrusive waiter, in Brookss History of the World: Part I (1981); the libidinous society osteopath Stephen Ward in Scandal (1989), about the Profumo-Keeler sex scandal that shook 1960s England; an erudite English writer smitten with a teenage heartthrob (Jason Priestley) in Love and Death on Long Island (1997); and an omniscient, enigmatic billionaire who funds an astronomer, played by Jodie Foster, in Contact (1997).

Because of his skill imbuing the most eccentric parts with humanity, Hurt was one of the few actors to emerge critically unscathed from Gus Van Sants 1993 film, Even Cowgirls Get the Blues, in which he played the Countess, described by one British reporter as a misogynist homosexual feminine-deodorant magnate.

John Vincent Hurt was born in Chesterfield, England, on Jan. 22, 1940, and grew up in Cleethorpes.

He described his parents as distant and severe, prohibiting him from mixing with neighbourhood children they deemed common. He felt further isolated at a series of preparatory schools, one where he later said he was sexually abused by an administrator. An older brother rebelled against his parents by converting to Catholicism and later became a Benedictine monk.

From a young age, Hurt found refuge in the theatre. At prep school, he was frequently cast in female roles. I had a very high voice and was quite small  and was rather pretty in those days, he later told the Scotsman newspaper. I just knew, then, that I wanted to act.

He attended art school to honor his parents request that he train for a fallback career before winning a scholarship to attend the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London.

Early on, despite his wispy physical appearance, he was singled out by theatre critics for his magnetism. His portrayal of a rebellious art student in David Halliwells dark comedy Little Malcolm and His Struggle Against the Eunuchs, which he reprised on screen in 1974, brought him to Zinnemanns attention.

Hurt returned periodically to the stage, with the Royal Shakespeare Company and elsewhere, but he focused chiefly on a screen career that encompassed adaptations of King Lear, horror films, fantasies and westerns.

In such a prolific career, he was not without his misfires, including a version of Romeo and Juliet featuring an otherwise all-feline cast. He also played the British spy chief known as Control in Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (2011), a critically lauded version of the John le Carre novel about deceit.

His personal life was turbulent. He said he suffered from considerable mood swings and took pleasure in drinking with legendarily rowdy and bibulous actors such as Peter OToole, Richard Harris and Oliver Reed.

An early marriage, to actress Annette Robertson, ended in divorce. His companion of 16 years, French fashion model Marie-Lise Volpeliere-Pierrot, was killed in a horse-riding accident in 1983.

His subsequent marriages to Donna Peacock and Jo Dalton, the mother of his two sons, ended in divorce. In 2005, he wed Anwen Rees-Myers. A complete list of survivors could not immediately be confirmed.

Hurt was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2014 for his contributions to drama.

There isnt such a thing as a regular guy, Hurt once told the New York Times. The roles that intrigued him, he said, demand vulnerability . . . the ability to expose things that would not normally be seen.

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The watchwords for the GTA real estate markets in 2017 will be adaptation and innovation, as residents, the building industry and governments alike face the challenges of ceaseless demand, limited supply and record-high house pricing.

Housing affordability has never been a more critical concern.

In 2016, the average house in the GTA made more money than the average household, with detached home prices breaking the $1 million mark and ending last year at $1,016,145  a mind-boggling 23.1-per-cent spike year over year, according to the Toronto Real Estate Board.

The price of condominiums, typically considered the more affordable solution compared with detached homes, increased by more than 16 per cent year over year across the GTA.

So what do people do when it becomes too expensive to buy a home, of any kind, anywhere? They rent. And renting will likely play a greater role in the GTA housing market in the years ahead.

In his recent book, The Wealthy Renter, author and research analyst Alex Avery touches on some of the key benefits of renting, including freedom of mobility.

But what happens if renting also becomes too expensive?

Many cities around the world have been experiencing this and theyre turning to a concept known as co-living. Its actually a new name for an old idea. Rooming houses played a vital role in the urbanization and formation of cities in the 19th century, providing workers with accommodation via shared housing.

Today, in expensive cities in Europe and the U.S. with significant populations of single people, co-living is transforming housing from an asset class to a consumer product. In the U.S., the average age of couples marrying is now seven years older than it was 40 years ago and the divorce rate is approximately 50 per cent. That means theres a large number of single people looking for places to live.

Emerging platforms such as The Collective in London and Common and WeLive in the U.S. (part of the co-working platform WeWork), offer plug-and-play accommodation solutions, with everything included  right down to the fork  at a range of prices and term options. Co-living provides residents with flexibility and freedom in a community environment. And co-living spaces are typically housed in adaptive re-use structures, keeping carbon footprints small.

The federal government introduced an Innovation Agenda for the nation last summer and the Greater Golden Horseshoe is positioning itself as a global cluster for innovation.

This will create tremendous opportunities. But it will take more than simply skilled talent to foster a thriving innovation ecosystem. It will require an effective housing solution, yet housing is, for some reason, not part of the governments proposed Innovation Agenda.

In an era of vast technological change, at a time when we can take the shop out of shopping, the place out of workplace, people still need to live somewhere and innovations such as co-living will need to be explored.

George Carras is the president of RealStrategies Inc. and the founder of RealNet Canada Inc. (now part of Altus Group). For more information, visit realstrategies.ca

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GATINEAU, QUE.A former medical technician accused of performing unnecessary and inappropriate breast exams at military recruiting centres in Ontario took the stand in his own defence Friday, and denied the exams ever took place.

Retired petty officer James Wilks faces eight counts of breach of trust and one count of sexual assault in connection with complaints filed by six women in Thunder Bay, London and Windsor, Ont.

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Woman allegedly harassed in military medical exam tells court she hid complaint

More charges for ex-military medic convicted of sex assault during medical exams

The women have accused him of having them strip from the waist up so he could visually examine their breasts during routine medical exams at the recruiting centres. One also accused Wilks of touching her breasts under the pretence of conducting a breast exam.

But Wilks, who said he had conducted more than 3,000 medical examinations on prospective recruits during his more than 25 years in uniform, said he never asked any of the women to remove their tops. He also said he never touched any of the womens breasts.

I did not conduct any breast exams ... or visual exams, Wilks said under cross-examination from military prosecutor Maj. Adam Van Der Linde, adding: I did not have an applicant or recruit bare her breasts.

Wilks, who at one point told the court that he had been convicted of one count of breach of trust and one count of assault in the past six years, told the military court that one of the women did show her breasts during her exam.

But he said she did it without him asking, before he quickly asked her to cover back up.

She  without me prompting her, without me asking her  did expose her upper body to me for the briefest of moments, he said. She did that on her own accord, and I have no interest in viewing her breasts.

The court heard that prospective recruits received letters in advance of their medical exams that the procedure would not include any genital or breast exams. They were also told to keep on their underwear, including a shirt for women, unless they preferred a gown.

Occasional reminders were also sent out to medical personnel response for screening recruits, the court heard, though Wilks said he had always followed the rules and considered himself very good at what I did.

During their testimony last week, several of the women indicated they were initially reluctant to come forward and report Wilks because of concerns for their military careers. The alleged incidents occurred between 2005 and 2009.

During his more than three-hour cross-examination, Van Der Linde suggested Wilks had power over the women because passing their medical exam was a requirement for admission into the military.

As a medical assistant who was conducting these examinations, your signed forms would go up the chain to the recruit medical officer for approval, Van Der Linde said.

So you had the power to say on those forms whether a potential recruit isnt meeting the standards, correct?

I dont believe the term is power, Wilks responded. We were asked to make a recommendation based on the applicants medical history or medical circumstances. And our recommendation would have to have some substance in the medical information that was provided by the applicant.

Youd agree that to some extent, at least, a potential recruits future is actually in your hands? Van Der Linde pressed.

Ive never considered it or thought about it in that way, he replied.

Wilks was the last witness in the court martial, which has been running for two weeks. The prosecution and defence are expected to present closing arguments next week before a five-member panel of serving military personnel deliberates on a verdict.

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Schisms within the provinces medical profession are deepening in the run-up to a special meeting of the Ontario Medical Associations governing council.

The meeting has been orchestrated by a breakaway group of council delegates who want to overthrow the OMAs executive committee.

With a petition signed by 25 council delegates, they have put forth motions to remove president Dr. Virginia Walley, president-elect Dr. Stephen Chris, and four other executive members.

The entire council, comprising 260 delegates, will vote on the motions Sunday morning.

But a widely circulated email, originating from an apparently unhappy member of the breakaway group, says their plan to reform the OMA has gone too far.

Its unclear who wrote the email, which comes from an address dubbed Engaged OMA Members.

Referring to the takeover as a coup, the writer says the group has been planning it for several months on a secret Facebook group.

Screen-captured images of the Facebook group were included in the email.

The writer is angry that some physicians in the group, according to the writer, have been hatching plans to fill top spots on a new OMA executive themselves. Plans to install members of the replacement executive exclusively from the petition and not seek more experienced council members who may have been supportive of this change are concerning, the email states.

The apparent disregard for a demographic process speaks to the lack of transparency and ill-intent of this group, it continues.

The OMA represents Ontarios 34,000 physicians and medical students.

The membership has been deeply divided since last August when 63 per cent of those who voted on a tentative contract with the province cast ballots to defeat it, even though OMA brass had recommended it.

The Health Ministry and doctors have been without a contract, which deals with remuneration among other things, for three years.

Some doctors are angry that negotiations are stalled and that the OMA has not been able get the province to agree to binding arbitration as a precondition for starting up talks again.

Some doctors, angry that the OMA was unable to stop the province from recently passing legislation that makes significant changes to how the health system is structured, want the profession to take some kind of job action.

Others dislike the current Liberal government and want to see PC Leader Patrick Brown win the next election. Some want more money. Some want patient accountability, including co-payments. Many want improved working conditions and the ability to better serve patients.

In a Jan. 18 email to council delegates, Dr. Nadia Alam, a Georgetown physician and member of the breakaway group of 25, explained why confidence has been lost in the OMA executive and why a vote on ousting the current executive is necessary:

The OMA executive has demonstrated lack of vision, strategy and respect for member or delegate priorities. Despite being called out on their mistakes, the OMA executive has done nothing to correct their course or the course of this organization.

Screen-captured images from the so-called secret Facebook group reveal dissent, even among dissenters of the OMA.

The new breakaway group of 25 takes shots at older breakaway groups, namely Concerned Ontario Doctors and the Coalition of Ontario Doctors.

These two latter groups played key roles in defeating last summers tentative agreement.

A statement attributed to Dr. Lisa Salamon-Switzman, of Maple, says: I purposely didnt put COD or COODers on the petition. Yes it was f------ deliberate! No one respects them.

She goes on to say that the 25 who signed the petition are just us nice moderate hard working OMA members from district 11 (Toronto) and district 5 (Georgetown-Orangeville), and some friends.

A statement attributed to Dr. Audrey Karlinsky, from Toronto, refers to leaders of the COOD and COD: Dr. David Jacobs and Dr. Kulvinder Gill.

We have to believe that if the COD nominees do win as delegates, that if they are reasonable, they will want the same changes that we do. Eventually, all reasonable members leave the cuckoos nest of DJ and KG. Its just a matter of time for most, if not all.

Salamon-Switzman and Karlinsky did not respond to phone calls or faxes requesting comment for this story.

In an email to the Star, Jacobs was forgiving: In stressful times, people say things that they later regret. All of the physicians involved have my full support and respect.

Gill did not respond to requests for an interview for this article.

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Accused serial killer Elizabeth Wettlaufer was fired from the Woodstock nursing home where 11 of her alleged victims lived, newly released court documents reveal.

The dismissal of the registered nurse occurred March 31, 2014, raising further questions about whether three people she is accused of killing or attempting to kill after that date could have been spared.

Provincial law requires that nurses who are fired for reasons of misconduct, incompetence or a health condition that impairs their ability to provide care must be reported to the College of Nurses, which regulates the profession. The college then investigates.

Wettlaufer, 49, continued as a registered nurse with the college until she resigned Sept. 30, 2016, a day after Woodstock police began investigating her.

Read more:

Nursing home in Woodstock murder probe ordered to stop new admissions

Police exhume bodies of two alleged victims of Elizabeth Wettlaufer

Inside the troubled life of Elizabeth Wettlaufer, the nurse on the night shift

Officials at Woodstocks Caressant Care nursing home  where admissions were suspended by the provincial government Thursday due to safety concerns  wont say if they notified the college of her dismissal, arguing they dont want to compromise the ongoing police investigation. Wettlaufer was a registered nurse there for seven years.

For its part, the college refused to say if it received a notice from Caressant about Wettlaufer, describing such information as confidential. The college added, however, that it is now conducting an investigation into Ms Wettlaufers professional conduct.

In general, providing details of a report on any nurse could interfere and ultimately jeopardize a related criminal investigation as well as the Colleges own investigation, the college told the Star in a written response to questions. It could affect the credibility of those who submitted a report and any witnesses who were interviewed who may be needed to testify at any hearings held.

Medical malpractice lawyer Paul Harte described the colleges position as an infuriating contradiction: if the college can tell the public its investigating Wettlaufer now, why cant it say if it investigated her back in 2014?

The public has a genuine interest in knowing, was this preventable? Harte said, referring to Wettlaufers alleged crimes. And if so, was there a slip up in the regulatory system that allowed it to happen.

The only way to find out is for the college to say, at the very least, if a report on Wettlaufers firing was received, Harte said. That could identify a problem that we can fix before another member of the public is harmed, he added.

Jane Meadus, staff lawyer at Torontos Advocacy Centre for the Elderly legal clinic, said the public has a right to immediately know whether the nursing home failed to report the firing, or, if it did, why the college allowed Wettlaufer to continue practising without restrictions.

Its hard to know how many deaths we could have prevented, but its pretty clear there were some serious signs about this person that everyone just ignored, said Meadus, referring to reports that Wettlaufer was a drug addict while on the job.

The college says it supports a proposed provincial bill that would increase fines for employers who dont report nurses when required. But Meadus, who wants a government-appointed public inquiry into the case, said she has never heard of the college going after a nursing home for failing to do so, adding that makes existing and proposed penalties somewhat toothless.

Harte said he has heard of nursing homes failing to report nurses simply to avoid the costs and hassle of a college investigation, a union grievance or a wrongful dismissal suit.

Contacted by the Star, the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care refused to say if Wettlaufer's dismissal was reported to the college.

The government order to suspend admissions came as staff at Caressant Care was poised to fill 12 empty beds with patients from Woodstock General Hospital, said Ross Gerrie, president of the Unifor local representing registered practical nurses and support staff at the home. The for-profit home has 193 beds.

Inspectors with the ministry have been inspecting the home daily since charges against Wettlaufer were announced last October. Karen Simpson, director of the ministrys inspection branch, closed the home due to her belief that there is a risk of harm to the health or well-being of residents in the home or persons who might be admitted as residents.

Caressant spokesperson Lee Griffi said the home is making extra efforts to meet or exceed Ministry standards. He added that immediate changes are being made and an external consultant has been hired to help.

We are confident that these actions enable us to better provide for the physical, social and spiritual needs of our residents, Griffi added in a statement.

Questions about the reporting requirement were raised in a Star story last December.

Employers dont need to notify the college if nurses resign, unless managers had planned to fire them, according to a college document on mandatory reporting. Employers must also alert the college if there is a concern that a nurse is not practicing safely, or if a nurse is incapacitated by a health condition, including addiction, the college says.

In a Facebook post, Wettlaufer admitted to being an addict until late September 2014, which seems to be the time she first went into rehab. One friend said Wettlaufer told her she got hooked on drugs from the medication cart she controlled during her night shifts at Caressant Care.

Another neighbour said Wettlaufer told her she lost her job because she accidentally gave someone the wrong medication because she was fried. The neighbour claimed Wettlaufer added that she wasnt fired. They said if she left quietly they would just let it go.

Nothing was publicly known about the circumstances under which Wettlaufer left Caressant Care until a Woodstock court earlier this month unsealed a heavily redacted information to obtain, a sworn affidavit by Woodstock Det. Const. Tim Pinder, outlining his reasons for a search warrant in the case.

Pinders report reveals that on Oct. 24, 2016, the day before Wettlaufer was charged, a Woodstock police officer read a letter of dismissal issued by Brenda Van Quaethem to Beth Wettlaufer, and dated March 31, 2014. Van Quaethem was the administrator at the Caressant home at the time. The letter came from Wettlaufers employment records at the home. In the court document, the information the letter contains is redacted.

Van Quaethem refused to comment when contacted by the Star. She had signalled her intention to retire from the job last summer and left about a month before charges were announced, said Unifors Gerrie.

Wettlaufer is charged with eight counts of first-degree murder, four counts of attempted murder and two counts of aggravated assault. For the attempted murders and aggravated assaults, Wettlaufer is accused of injecting the victims with insulin. The charges cover a period from June 2007 to August 2016.

The attempted murder and aggravated assault charges against six elderly residents were added earlier this month, but the court document reveals Woodstock police began investigating those alleged incidents Sept. 29, the day they were first alerted to Wettlaufer by Toronto police.

Since leaving Caressant Care in March 2014, Wettlaufer is accused of killing 75-year-old Arpad Horvath at a London nursing home five months later. Police alleged she then tried to kill a nursing home resident in Paris, Ont., in September 2015, and tried to murder again while providing in-home care in August 2016.

The last attempt occurred while Wettlaufer worked part-time for Saint Elizabeth Home Health Care. She was hired July 20, 2016 and resigning on Sept. 2, according to the newly released court documents.

On Sept. 16, Wettlaufer entered the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health in Toronto and came under the care of a psychiatrist. She gave staff information that caused them to alert police about the deaths, according to a source with knowledge of the investigation.

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Not only does the morning crow of a rooster signal a new day, but for those ringing in Chinese New Year this weekend, it also signals the beginning of the year.

The year of the rooster kicks off on Jan. 28, with dozens of celebrations planned across the GTA.

Chinatown will be hosting traditional performances, fortune telling, a dragon dance, and handing out red envelopes at the Dragon City Mall, near Spadina Ave. and Dundas St., on both Saturday and Sunday.

If youre looking for a black-tie affair, the Yee Hong Community Wellness Foundation is hosting its annual Dragon Ball Gala at the Exhibition Place on Saturday night. The grand reception begins at 5:45 p.m., with dinner to be served at 7 p.m.

For a more spiritual experience, make your way down to the Fo Guang Shan Temple Toronto chapter, located in Mississauga. The temple will be offering a Chinese New Years chanting service on Saturday and Sunday mornings.

Several GTA malls are also participating in the Chinese New Year celebrations, with a lantern display, traditional Lion Dance, and eye-dotting ceremony event happening at the Markville Shopping Centre on Saturday. The event begins at noon. If you cant make it out to Markham, Fairview Mall is hosting a similar event beginning at 11:30 a.m.

In Mississauga, Square One Shopping Centre is throwing a two-day Chinese New Year celebration. The mall is also advertising a host of discounts, promotions, and Chinese New Year-themed collections from various stores participating in the festivities. Pacific Mall is also showcasing special guests and live performances as part of its New Year Extravaganza.

And if youre in the mood for more cock-a-doodle-doing to start the year of the rooster off right, head over Roy Thomson Hall next Sat. Feb. 4 for a special concert by the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. The TSO will be putting on its fourth annual Chinese New Year program, featuring the world premiere of Canadian composer Vincent Ho and his work for the Chinese folk instrument, the pipa.

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Four days after U.S. President Donald Trump was inaugurated, mental health counsellors hosted a webinar on how their fellow American Muslims could cope. They surveyed the political landscape: a White House framing Islam itself as a threat, a surge in anti-Muslim hostility and suspicion of immigrants in general.

The counsellors offered tips such as limiting time on social media. And they cautioned against withdrawing in discouragement, worried about losing whatever foothold Muslims have gained in public life since the crucible of Sept. 11.

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Trumps refugee ban could alienate some of Americas staunchest allies: Its interpreters

Its very easy to tell a story of victimization, fear, feeling ... not welcome in our own home, said Ben Herzig, a Massachusetts therapist with a specialty in Muslim mental health. But the narrative of Islam in American can be a positive one.

While many express alarm at Trumps statements, Muslim leaders are pushing back. They are organizing protests, hosting elected officials at their mosques, building ties with other faith groups and encouraging Muslims to run for elected office. Many of these initiatives had been planned before the general election, but have taken on a new urgency since then.

Trump signed an executive order Friday setting new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States. The order was expected to indefinitely stop Syrian refugee entry into the U.S. and suspend issuing visas for people from other majority-Muslim countries. The new president and his supporters insist his measures are needed to strengthen national security.

Meanwhile, a Texas state lawmaker recently sent a provocative survey to local Muslim leaders asking, among other things, their views of Islamic law and whether they would pledge not to harm Muslims who left the faith. On Wednesday, a businessman attacked a Muslim airline employee at New Yorks Kennedy Airport, kicking her, shouting obscenities at her and saying that Trump will get rid of all of you, authorities said.

The discourse has shifted from good Muslims and bad Muslims to how bad is the Muslim youre talking about? said attorney Hassan Ahmad, an immigration law specialist in Virginia with many clients from Muslim countries.

Muslim leaders acknowledge they are in a relatively weak position from which to advocate, amid the nations inflamed mood over immigration, religion and terrorism.

The U.S. is home to only about 3.3 million Muslims, which means just a small number of Americans actually know a member of the faith. Many U.S. Muslims come from families that only arrived a generation ago. But they have more organizations, charities and cultural clout than ever, built by a post-9-11 generation eager to assert their American identity.

Companies like Amazon, Nabisco and CoverGirl have recently featured Muslims in their advertisements. The night after Trumps inauguration, comic Aziz Ansari, speaking from one of the most influential platforms in pop culture, as host of Saturday Night Live, called out anti-Muslim prejudice, white supremacy and other bias that has come to the forefront.

Its very clear that one of the goals of bigoted language is to make the victims feel isolated and make them feel that they have no allies and they have no power to get them to be silent and intimidate them and make them give up, said Dalia Mogahed, director of research for the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding, an American Muslim think-tank.

Last month, about 2,600 people filled the Islamic Society of Boston Cultural Center, for an interfaith event expressing support for the community. Among the speakers were U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts and Boston Mayor Marty Walsh.

This month, Wardah Khalid, a 30-year-old graduate of Texas A&M University, started a Washington organization called Poligon to train American Muslims how to lobby Congress. She got the idea from working as an analyst for the Friends Committee on National Legislation, a Quaker public policy organization.

There are other groups visiting (congressional offices) every single day of the year and it makes a difference in terms of policy asks, Khalid said. She said shes received a strong response to the launch on Facebook and through her website. It got a lot of momentum, Khalid said. People are finally waking up.

Muslims for American Progress, a project just launched by Mogaheds institute, aims to highlight American Muslim contributions to the country in medicine, science, sports, business and other fields. The profiles are based in part on data the institute has collected about Muslim professionals.

For 15 years American Muslims have been asked to tell the world what they condemn versus what they contribute, and the conversation in this presidential campaign was with one candidate who thought Muslims were a cancer and the other who basically thought that Muslims were benign and useful as an instrument of counterterrorism. But neither of them understood the value of the American Muslim community to our country outside of counterterror, Mogahed said.

Jerusha Lamptey, a professor of Islam and ministry at Union Theological Seminary, a liberal Christian school in New York, had just wrapped up the schools first leadership training program for Muslim women when details emerged over the last week of Trumps plan to sharply restrict refugee flow.

The scheduling turned out to be very important because it created something for us to do that was constructive and somewhat hopeful, Lamptey said. This anxiety for the American Muslim community is not new. But this last year, its been wildly out of control.

That angst is causing deep fatigue, especially among Muslim college students and parents desperate to protect their children, said Kameelah Rashad, founder of the Philadelphia-based Muslim Wellness Foundation, which educates Muslims on mental health issues. Rashads son, who is in sixth grade, heard one of his teachers say people upset by Trumps election should just get over it. Rashad said

We are such a small minority in the country overall, so it will really just take more than us standing up and saying, This is inexcusable, Rashad said. Were very resilient, but we also have to comfort our children. We have to figure out if my place of worship is safe on Friday. How will I be treated at work? Theres an emotional exhaustion.

Surveying Trumps first week in office, she said: I think it will get worse before it gets better.

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WASHINGTONDick Hendry came to the annual anti-abortion March for Life during the Obama era. The tone, he said, was morose.

Hendry, 77, was smiling under his Donald Trump hat on Friday. Even people holding photos of aborted fetuses were smiling. The election of a man who was once an abortion-supporting playboy Democrat has put U.S. abortion rights in perhaps the most serious danger since the Supreme Courts landmark Roe vs. Wade decision of 1973.

I am the most optimistic I have ever been in my life, said Peggy Ward, 58, a teacher from a small town in Ohio who has attended the march off and on since 1978. This is the best. Hes going to start helping us save babies, and the Congress is going to help, and were excited beyond belief.

With a crowd near the Washington Monument that appeared to be in the tens of thousands, the March for Life was not even a quarter of the size of the liberal Womens March that took over a swath of the capital last Saturday with signs like hands off my uterus and my body, my choice.

But the people carrying signs Friday with slogans like Personhood from conception without exception and The body inside your body is not your body have something the people in the pink hats lack: political power.

The evidence of the reversal of fortunes was right up on stage. Kellyanne Conway, counsellor to Trump, opened the proceedings with a fiery speech in which she called abortion indefensible. Then came Mike Pence, the first vice-president or president ever to address an event to which Republican leaders have traditionally sent remarks by video.

Trump did not emphasize social issues during his campaign. But he swayed millions of pro-lifers with his selection of Pence, a Christian social conservative who, laws as governor of Indiana, imposed stringent anti-abortion  including one that requires the remains of aborted fetuses to be buried or cremated.

Pences Friday message: 44 years after the Roe decision established a constitutional right to an abortion, the pro-life movement has all the momentum.

Today, three generations hence, because of all of you, and the many thousands that stand with us in marches like this all across the nation, life is winning again in America, Pence said.

Be assured, be assured, that along with you, we will not grow weary, we will not rest, until we restore a culture of life in America for ourselves and our posterity.

Republicans, including Pence on Friday, have vowed to eliminate even non-abortion funding to Planned Parenthood, Americas top provider of abortion and reproductive health services. And Trump, who has vowed to appoint only anti-abortion judges to the Supreme Court, will soon nominate a justice to replace the late Antonin Scalia.

One Trump-selected justice almost certainly will not be enough to overturn Roe. Two, though, could conceivably tip the balance in favour of a reversal that could leave tens of millions of women without abortion access in their state.

In the next few years, theyre not going to get anything radically different through the Supreme Court than they would have a few years ago . . . . Long-term, obviously, it could be quite different, if more people on the Supreme Court die, said Mary Ziegler, a Florida State University law professor and author of After Roe: The Lost History of the Abortion Debate.

If that happens, that could really be a game-changer. Because then the prospect of overruling Roe actually becomes realistic rather than kind of a pipe dream, which I think it still is now.

Most of the U.S. battles over abortion are fought at the state level, where Republicans are dominant. Emboldened by the prospect of a friendlier court, conservatives in some states have already introduced proposals to make abortion scarcer. In Ohio, for example, legislators rapidly approved a law that would have made abortion illegal as soon as a fetal heartbeat could be detected.

The governor vetoed it, but he approved another law to ban abortion after 20 weeks, and suddenly a significant new restriction seemed to some like a moderate compromise.

People in state governments who feel like they might not have tried to introduce a bill that would probably be very clearly unconstitutional might feel that they can maybe do that now, said Tara Romano, executive director of NARAL Pro-Choice North Carolina. We are definitely preparing for this to be a time of pretty intense struggle.

Trump sent an early signal to anti-abortion movement by reinstating a Ronald Reagan policy banning federal funding of foreign organizations that conduct abortions or promote them. But some marchers remained skeptical of a libertine businessman who often seemed unfamiliar with the vocabulary of their movement.

Quite honestly, I dont have a tremendous amount of confidence. Im not swayed by words now. Its going to take action. So he can say whatever he wants to say, but we will see by the Supreme Court nominees he puts forward and by his actions whether hes pro-life or not, said Jeremiah Becker, 38, a tax analyst from Atlanta, Ga.

Romano said the Trump-era threat might produce new activism from people who want legal access to abortion but have never felt the need to stand up and fight for it. Their energy may be matched, though, by abortion foes who see Trump as an unlikely last great hope.

If it doesnt get done now, said Frank Zaremba, 72, of Michigan, itll never happen.

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In December 2015, as Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump floated the idea of a ban on Muslims travelling to the United States, then-Indiana governor Mike Pence weighed in on Twitter.

Calls to ban Muslims from entering the U.S. are offensive and unconstitutional, he tweeted.

On Thursday, Trump signed an executive order that prevents entry into the United States for at least 30 days for people from seven Muslim-majority countries: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

Titled, Protecting the Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry Into The United States, the order also bars Syrian refugees from entering the U.S. indefinitely.

The executive action includes new vetting measures that Trump said are aimed at keeping radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States.

We dont want them here, he said.

Wording contained in a draft of the order suggests the U.S. would allow the admission of Christians from Muslim-majority countries.

While the refugee program is suspended, the U.S. may admit people on a case-by-case basis when in the national interest and the government will continue to process refugee requests from people claiming religious persecution, provided that the religion . . . is a minority religion in the individuals country.

In an interview with CBN News, Trump said persecuted Christians would be given priority in applying for refugee status.

We are going to help them, Trump said. Theyve been horribly treated.

On Dec. 7, 2015, Trump issued a statement calling for a total and complete shutdown of Muslims entering the United States until our countrys representatives can figure out what is going on.

Without looking at the various polling data, it is obvious to anybody the hatred is beyond comprehension. Where this hatred comes from and why we will have to determine, Trump stated at the time.

Until we are able to determine and understand this problem and the dangerous threat it poses, our country cannot be the victims of horrendous attacks by people that believe only in Jihad, and have no sense of reason or respect for human life.

Pence tweeted his criticism of a potential ban the following day.

With files from The Associated Press

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CAPE CANAVERAL, FLA.Back in his days as a test pilot at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio, Gus Grissom had a message for his wife, Betty.

If I die, have a party, he said.

Betty Grissom never did have that party. But on Friday, as for the past 25 years, there was a solemn observance at the little-known memorial for her husband and two crewmates who were killed in the Apollo 1 disaster. Gus Grissom, Roger Chaffee and Ed White died in a flash fire that engulfed their capsule atop a Saturn 1B rocket during a routine training mission on Jan. 27, 1967. Grissom was 40.

Betty Grissom, 89, was at the memorial again on Friday, wearing a denim jacket with a large Apollo 1 patch in patriotic colours. She joined old friends, family members, and NASA officials and veterans, among them Charlie Duke, who took part in the Apollo 16 moon landing. With the recent deaths of astronauts John Glenn and Gene Cernan and the sea changes in Washington, the gathering felt like a memorial for an era as well as for three men.

At the ceremony, candles were lit for the dead astronauts by members of their families, including Cody Grissom, 22, a pilot, who is completing his last year at his grandfathers alma mater, Purdue University. Representatives from the Navy, the Air Force and NASA spoke, and a Navy bugler performed taps after the sun went down.

It is important that Challenger and Columbia are remembered, and that Apollo 1 is remembered, said the Kennedy Space Center director, Robert D. Cabana. And that we take those steps that create an environment where everyone has a voice, that we really work to ensure the success and the safety of the crew as we continue to explore and move beyond our planet.

Betty Grissom said this years ceremony was probably her last. It coincided with a NASA tribute exhibit about Apollo 1 at the Kennedy Space Center, which she, like many, thought was long overdue.

I thought this is probably a good time to call it quits with them finally getting a memorial of some kind, she said.

This years event drew around 150 people, one of the largest crowds ever for a memorial that few people knew of unless they were related to an astronaut or were a diehard space fan.

We need heroes today, and these were heroes, said one such fan, Robert Pearlman, a U.S. space historian.

Although the launch platform is crumbling like a concrete Greek ruin, and stencilled with an eerie Abandon in Place, the site was decorated with three red-white-and-blue floral wreaths brought by the Grissom family. A bagpiper stood ready and Betty Grissom sat front and centre.

She was treated as the events grande dame as people lined up to speak with her.

Many years after the accident, two space buffs, Bob Castro and Mark Pinchell, started going out to the site of the fire, which is on Air Force property, in their own private tribute. One year, they bumped into each other, and came up with the idea of doing something bigger.

Just two space geeks who were going to Pad 34 and doing their own separate ceremonies, said Mark Grissom, 63, who was 13 when his father died. They met at the pad and decided to invite the families.

The Grissoms were the first astronaut family to become involved. Early on, car headlights provided the only illumination. While other astronauts and families have been absent over the years, this year Roger Chaffees wife, Martha, and her daughter, Sheryl, attended, along with Ed Whites daughter Bonnie.

This is the families memorial, said Sonny Witt, the 45th Space Wing director of operations for Division 1 at Patrick Air Force Base, who helps provide the access. Not the Air Force and not NASA. They are the ones that lost the husbands and brothers and fathers. Mistakes were made, and they paid the price.

When the three Apollo 1 astronauts were trapped in their burning capsule on Pad 34, a cry for help  believed to be from Chaffee, a rookie astronaut  came over the communications system: Hey, were burning up. White tried opening the hatch, but caught within the highly combustible pure oxygen atmosphere, the crew suffocated.

I dont want any of this forgotten, Betty Grissom said. Gus Grissom was a human being.

Grissom, who lives in Houston by herself, and Gus Grissom were high school sweethearts in Mitchell, Indiana. Her life always revolved around him. She worked as a late-night telephone operator for Indiana Bell, putting her husband through college at Purdue, where he studied mechanical engineering on the GI Bill. He was selected as an astronaut after flying an F-86 Sabre on over a hundred combat missions in Korea.

Death was always on the horizon for the wives. The program lost seven astronauts on the path to the moon, largely as a result of crashes of the T-38, the supersonic jet trainer airplanes.

When the news of the Apollo 1 accident came to her, delivered by a NASA doctor when she was at a friends home for a weekly poker night, Betty Grissom told her friend that she had already died 100,000 deaths living with her husband. Martha Chaffee, the youngest space widow, slept with the flag that hung over her husbands coffin at Arlington. Pat White killed herself years later, a weekend before she and some of the other wives had a reunion planned, her friends said.

The space widows felt rejected after their husbands died, while still living in the closely knit community of astronaut families in the space burbs by the Manned Spacecraft Center (later the Johnson Space Center) in Houston, nicknamed Togethersville because of its exclusivity.

In the late 60s, Betty Grissom became a black sheep among the astronaut community. She was the first of the widows to sue NASAs largest contractor, North American Rockwell, over the construction of the capsule, and she inspired Martha Chaffee and Pat White to do the same. Betty Grissom eventually settled for $350,000.

On Friday, as Betty Grissom was helped off the old launching pad, professional and amateur stargazers pointed out the International Space Station passing in the sky above, along with Venus and a shooting star. Back in the car and about to be driven to a celebratory dinner for friends and family at a hotel in nearby Cocoa Beach, she turned to her son and said, The stars are out tonight.

Earlier, she spoke of how her husbands sacrifice helped pave the way for the missions to come like the Apollo 11 moonwalk her husband never got to see. Still, she said, Im pretty sure he got to the moon before they did. She added: Of course he didnt make it, but in spirit I think he was already there.

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WASHINGTONA federal judge in New York blocked deportations late Saturday of those detained on entry to the United States after an executive order from the U.S. president targeted citizens from seven predominantly Muslim countries.

Judge Ann Donnelly of the U.S. District Court in Brooklyn granted a request from the American Civil Liberties Union to stop the deportations after determining that the risk of injury to those detained by being returned to their home countries necessitated the decision.

Minutes after the judges ruling in New York, another came in Virginia when U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema issued a temporary restraining order to block for seven days the removal of any green-card holders being detained at Dulles International Airport. Brinkemas action also ordered that lawyers have access to those held there because of the ban.

Donald Trumps order reverberated across the world Saturday, making it increasingly clear that the measure he had promised during his presidential campaign was casting a wider net than even his opponents had feared.

READ MORE:

Canadian dual citizens from 7 Muslim-majority countries banned from U.S.

Syrian family arrived in U.S. just in time before Trump ban

Confusion and concern among immigrant advocates mounted throughout the day as travellers from the Middle East were detained at U.S. airports or sent home. A lawsuit filed on behalf of two Iraqi men challenged Trumps executive action, which was signed Friday and initially cast as applying to refugees and migrants.

As the day progressed, administration officials said the sweeping order also targeted U.S. legal residents from the named countries  green-card holders  who were abroad when it was signed. Also subject to being barred entry into the United States are some dual nationals, or people born in one of the seven countries who hold passports even from U.S. allies, such as the United Kingdom.

Yet, an official of the Department of Homeland Security late Saturday said foreign-born U.S. residents who could have been barred from re-entering the United States under the immigration order have been allowed back into the country.

The DHS official who briefed reporters on Saturday night spoke on condition of anonymity because the official wasnt authorized to publicly discuss details of the matter.

Trumps order Friday barred citizens of seven Muslim-majority countries  Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen  from entering the United States for 90 days. That meant that even those with permanent residency green cards or other visas risked not being let back in to the United States. But the official said all green-card holders from the seven countries who sought to enter the U.S. on Saturday were granted special permission.

Its not clear if other green-card holders will be admitted. The official said cases are being reviewed individually.

The virtually unprecedented measures triggered harsh reactions from not only Democrats and others who typically advocate for immigrants but also key sectors of the U.S. business community. Leading technology companies recalled scores of overseas employees and sharply criticized the president. Legal experts forecast a wave of litigation over the order, calling it unconstitutional.

Yet Trump, who centred his campaign in part on his vow to crack down on illegal immigrants and impose what became known as his Muslim ban, was unbowed. As White House officials insisted that the measure strengthens national security, the president stood squarely behind it.

Its not a Muslim ban, but we were totally prepared, Trump told reporters in the Oval Office. You see it at the airports, you see it all over. Its working out very nicely, and were going to have a very, very strict ban, and were going to have extreme vetting, which we should have had in this country for many years.

ACLU lawyers also filed a motion for class certification, in an effort to represent all refugees and other immigrants who they said were being unlawfully detained at ports of entry.

During the hearing, ACLU attorney Lee Gelernt informed the court that he had received word of a deportation to Syria, scheduled within the hour. That prompted Donnelly to ask if the government could assure that the person would not suffer irreparable harm. Receiving no such assurance, she granted the stay to the broad group included in the ACLUs request.

A senior Department of Homeland Security official had no comment about the rulings late Saturday and said the department was consulting with its lawyers.

The official said enforcement of the presidents order on Saturday had created minimal disruption, given that only a small number of the several hundred thousand travelers arriving at U.S. airports daily had been affected.

Nationwide, he said, 109 people had been denied entry into the United States. All had been in transit when Trump signed the order, and some had already departed the United States on flights by late Saturday while others were still being detained awaiting flights. Also, 173 people had not been allowed to board U.S.-bound planes at foreign airports.

Though several congressional Republicans denounced the order, the vast majority remained silent and a few voiced crucial support  including, most prominently, House Speaker Paul Ryan, who had rejected Trumps anti-Muslim proposals during the campaign.

This is not a religious test, and it is not a ban on people of any religion, Ryan said Saturday. This order does not affect the vast majority of Muslims in the world.

The presidents order suspends admission to the U.S. of all refugees for 120 days and bars for 90 days the entry of any citizen from the seven countries. The list excludes several majority-Muslim nations  notably Turkey, the United Arab Emirates and Indonesia  where the Trump Organization, now run by the presidents sons, is active and which in some cases have also faced troublesome issues with terrorism.

According to the text of the order, the restriction applies to countries that have already been excluded from programs allowing people to travel to the United States without a visa because of terrorism concerns. Hewing closely to nations already named as terrorism concerns elsewhere in law might have allowed the White House to avoid angering powerful and wealthy majority-Muslim allies, such as Egypt and Saudi Arabia.

Amid widespread confusion on Saturday about how the order will be enforced, some administration officials acknowledged that its rollout had been chaotic. Officials tried to reassure travellers and their families, pointing out that green-card holders in the U.S. will not be affected and noting that the Department of Homeland Security is allowed to grant waivers to those individuals and others deemed to not pose a security threat.

It can take years for someone to become a green-card holder, or lawful permanent resident authorized to permanently live and work in the country.

If youve been living in the United States for 15 years and you own a business and your family is here, will you be granted a waiver? Im assuming yes, but we are working that out, said one official, who could not be more specific because details remained so cloudy. A senior White House official later said that waivers will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and that green-card holders in the U.S. will have to meet with a consular officer before leaving the country.

But officials made clear that the federal officers detaining refugees and migrants with valid U.S. visas and restricting them from entering the country were following orders handed down by top DHS officials, at the White Houses behest.

The order drew outrage from a range of activist and advocates for Muslims, Arabs and immigrants. More than 4,000 academics from universities nationwide signed a statement of opposition and voiced concern the ban would become permanent. They described it as discriminatory and inhumane, ineffective and un-American.

The executive action has caused complete chaos and torn apart families, said Abed Ayoub, legal and policy director of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee.

In New York, lawyers for two Iraqi men detained at John F. Kennedy International Airport  one of whom served the U.S. military mission in Iraq  filed a federal lawsuit challenging the order as unconstitutional.

One of the men, Hameed Khalid Darweesh, was released Saturday afternoon without explanation from federal officials. This is the humanity, this is the soul of America, he told reporters. This is what pushed me to move, to leave my country and come here. . . . America is the land of freedom - the land of freedom, the land of the right.

Other advocates promised further legal challenges. The Council on American-Islamic Relations denounced the order and said it would file a lawsuit challenging it as unconstitutional.

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WASHINGTONWill President Donald Trump usher in a new era for U.S.-Russian relations, or are the two powers going to continue down the path as geopolitical foes?

Now that Russian President Vladimir Putin has held his first conversation with Americas newly inaugurated leader, attention turns to the fate of U.S. sanctions against Moscow and whether the two will look to enhance military co-operation against the Islamic State group.

Trump was noncommittal about whether he was considering lifting the economic sanctions ahead of the call, telling reporters Friday, Well see what happens. As far as the sanctions, very early to be talking about that.

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Trump pledges lasting support to relationship with Britain after meeting with Theresa May

No one has any idea what a Trump doctrine will look like, but the world is bracing: Analysis

Biden: Russia sanctions must stay in place

While the White House has yet to comment on Saturdays phone call, the Kremlin released a statement hinting that the two men discussed the sanctions, implemented by the Obama administration as a consequence of Russias actions in Ukraine.

The two leaders emphasized the importance of restoring mutually beneficial trade and economic ties between business circles of the two countries, which could additionally stimulate the incremental and sustainable development of the bilateral relationship, the Kremlin said.

Putin and Trump will also maintain regular personal contact and will begin preparations for a face-to-face meeting.

The Kremlin has applauded Trumps promises to rebuild U.S.-Russian relations, which have been pushed to their worst level since the Cold War by the Ukraine crisis, war in Syria and allegations of Russian meddling in U.S. elections.

The Kremlin said that Putin and Trump spoke in particular about international issues, including the fight against terrorism, the Arab-Israeli conflict, Irans nuclear program, the situation on the Korean Peninsula and the Ukraine crisis.

The presidents spoke out in favour of the establishment of real co-ordination of Russian and American actions with the aim of destroying the Islamic State, according to the statement.

In 2014, Russia annexed Ukraines Crimea region and backed separatists fighting government forces in eastern Ukraine, drawing widespread condemnation in Europe and the United States.

In response, sanctions were implemented against sectors of Russias economy, including financial services, energy, mining and defence. The Obama administration also sanctioned people in Putins inner circle.

Shortly before leaving office, President Barack Obama also ordered sanctions on Russian spy agencies, closed two Russian compounds in the United States and expelled 35 diplomats that he said were really spies. These sanctions followed an assessment by U.S. intelligence that Moscow meddled in the 2016 election to help Trump become president.

Trumps tempered approach to U.S.-Russia relations has already raised concern among several European allies who believe keeping Russia in check is essential to regional security.

British Prime Minister Theresa May, whose country  as part of the European Union  also has punished Russia for its provocations in Ukraine, voiced the view of many in Europe, telling reporters in Washington on Friday: We believe the sanctions should continue.

Vice-President Mike Pence and other senior advisers joined Trump for the call with Putin, including his national security adviser, retired Gen. Michael Flynn, chief of staff Reince Priebus and senior strategist Steve Bannon. Trump also spoke on Saturday with the leaders of Japan, Germany, France and Australia.

Two Republican senators  Arizonas John McCain, chairman of the Armed Services Committee, and Ohios Rob Portman, a member of the Foreign Relations Committee  warned the White House about easing any punishments on Moscow and they pledged to turn the sanctions into law.

I hope President Trump will put an end to this speculation and reject such a reckless course, McCain said in a statement. If he does not, I will work with my colleagues to codify sanctions against Russia into law.

Portman said lifting the sanctions for any reason other than a change in the behaviour that led to those sanctions in the first place would send a dangerous message to a world already questioning the value of American leadership and the credibility of our commitments after eight years of Obama administration policies.

McCain has emerged as a frequent critic of Trump among Capitol Hill Republicans. He takes a dim view of trying to reset relations with Moscow and says Trump should remember that Putin is a murderer and a thug who seeks to undermine American national security interests at every turn.

For our commander in chief to think otherwise would be naive and dangerous, McCain said.

McCain and Portman are part of a bipartisan group of senators who have introduced legislation designed to go beyond the punishments against Russia already levied by Obama and to demonstrate to Trump that forcefully responding to Moscows meddling isnt a partisan issue.

The bill would impose mandatory visa bans and freeze the financial assets of anyone who carries out cyberattacks against public or private computer systems and democratic institutions.

The legislation also mandates sanctions in Russias all-important energy sector and on investments in the development of civil nuclear projects to rebuke Moscow for its provocations in eastern Ukraine and military support for Syrian President Bashar Assad.

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ANKARA, TURKEYTurkey and Britain signed a deal to jointly build fighter jets during Prime Minister Theresa Mays visit to Ankara on Saturday, even as the British leader called on Turkeys government to uphold democracy and abide by human rights standards.

Britains BAE Systems and Turkish Aerospace industries signed the nearly $165.05 million agreement establishing a partnership for the development of Turkeys fighter jet program as May met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and other Turkish officials about boosting trade between the countries once Britain leaves the European Union. The discussions also focused on increasing co-operation over security and counterterrorism.

This agreement underlines once again that Britain is a great, global, trading nation and that we are open for business, May said, according to a statement from her office. It marks the start of a new and deeper trading relationship with Turkey and will potentially secure British and Turkish jobs and prosperity for decades to come.

Read more: Trump pledges lasting support to relationship with Britain after meeting with Theresa May

May flew overnight to Ankara by RAF Voyager jet from the U.S., where she and U.S. President Donald Trump proclaimed a new chapter in the trans-Atlantic special relationship.

The visit to Turkey, an important but complicated NATO ally, came amid pressure at home to condemn Turkeys clampdown on civil liberties since the government crushed a coup attempt in July.

I am proud that the U.K. stood with you on the 15th of July last year in defence of your democracy, May said, as she and Erdogan delivered brief statements to the media following their talks.

And now it is important that Turkey sustains that democracy by maintaining the rule of law and upholding its international human rights obligations  as the government has undertaken to do, she said.

Turkey has detained tens of thousands of people suspected of links to a movement led by U.S.-based Muslim cleric Fethullah Gulen, whom the government accuses of orchestrating the failed coup attempt. More than 100,000 others have been dismissed from government jobs.

The crackdown extended to other government opponents. More than a hundred journalists and pro-Kurdish party leaders are in jail.

May, who was paying her first visit to Turkey since becoming prime minister, arrived for talks with Erdogan to find her image dominating television screens in the presidential palace, which were showing footage of her visit to the White House.

May laughed when Erdogan said her trip to Washington was well-covered in Turkey.

In his statement, the Turkish leader said the two countries would aim to increase their bilateral trade volume from the current $15.6 billion to some $20 billion.

Earlier, May laid a wreath in the red and white colours of the Turkish flag at the tomb of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, founder of the modern Turkish Republic, before meeting Erdogan at the vast presidential palace.

She said Britain and Turkey should renew our efforts to fulfil Ataturks vision of peace at home and peace in the world.

Turkey has suffered multiple deadly attacks in the past two years, carried out by Daesh, also known as ISIS or ISIL, or by Kurdish militants, including Daesh raid on a nightclub in Istanbul during New Years celebrations that killed 39 people.

Kate Allen, head of Amnesty International UK, said the visit was a vital opportunity for May to ask probing questions about allegations of excessive use of force and ill-treatment in detention.

May and Erdogan also discussed the conflict in Syria and efforts to reunite Cyprus.

Erdogan said Turkey was seeking a different concept in its co-operation with allies, including Britain, in its fight against Daesh in Syria. Turkey has criticized what it calls insufficient support from the U.S.-led anti-IS coalition in its military drive to liberate a key town in northern Syria from the extremists.

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They were, he says, inseparable for 59 years of marriage. Now 84-year-old Fred Rieser is suing a Niagara Falls long term care home, saying staff did not include him in discussions about his wifes pneumonia treatment before she died.

As the Stars Peter Goffin reports, the lawsuit claims 88-year-old Alma Rieser was not referred to hospital, provided with appropriate medication, x-rays, diagnosis (or) medical treatment.

In the four days between her diagnosis and her death last February, Rieser told Goffin that no one  including the Millennium Trail Manor physician  spoke to him about Almas treatment. Understandably, Rieser believes that his input, such as a recommendation for hospital care, might have saved her life.

Blocked from advocating for Alma, who suffered from Alzheimers disease, Rieser is right to speak out on an issue that is sadly commonplace in Ontario long term care homes.

His grief also speaks to a wider reality: Ontario has an aging society with rapidly rising dementia rates. The Alzheimer Society of Canada says 564,000 Canadians have dementia with another 25,000 new cases diagnosed every year. That means families and friends will be increasingly tasked with the oversight of resident care  and good communication is key. Its also a legal requirement.

Informed consent for medical treatment is mandated by the province and the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario. Both must do a better job of holding incommunicative medical staff to account.

As well, the health ministry must ensure that families are properly educated about their rights  including the rights of residents (and their substitute decision makers) to participate fully in the development, implementation and revision of their own plan of care. Its pretty straightforward.

Ongoing Star investigations into long term care homes have detailed multiple cases of families who were not informed about serious health problems, from pneumonia to deep, infected pressure ulcers.

Lori Dekervor, for example, filed a lawsuit last fall against Revera, one of Ontarios largest care home chains, claiming that she learned of her fathers leaking pressure ulcer after visiting him in hospital  not from repeated conversations with staff at his Toronto nursing home. He died, in agony, a short time later.

This lack of communication leaves families emotionally devastated, wondering if their input could have made a difference in keeping their father, aunt or grandmother alive. Or at the very least, allowing for a peaceful death instead of suffering. Its traumatizing.

Legal advocate Jane Meadus says lack of communication is one of the biggest problems in long term care, where many doctors and staff operate on the premise that they know best. A lawyer for the Advocacy Centre for the Elderly, Meadus says families cant understand why the home isnt calling if theres a fall or a bad illness. It ends with people being very upset. Shes right about that.

Ageism probably plays a role too. Meadus says some staff, believing that since residents are old and sick they are going to die, may be less attentive than they ought to be.

To be fair, some Ontario homes are working hard to improve connections with residents and families. A few strong leaders are creating a culture where greater attention is paid both to residents and their relatives. To state the obvious, that creates a more positive experience for everyone.

If Rieser wasnt able to advocate for his wife at the end of her life, his lawsuit could serve the dual purpose of holding the home accountable and exposing an important matter of public interest. After all, the elderly are among our most vulnerable citizens. As Meadus points out, society wouldnt allow daycare teachers to ignore parents input with young children.

Communication matters, whether the individual is in a care home or still living in the community. The Ontario government has been pushing an aging at-home strategy for people with dementia, which is welcomed by David Harvey, chief public policy and research officer for the Alzheimer Society of Ontario.

Community care needs improvement, too. The current home care system is rigid, Harvey says. Health care workers arrive at a home with a list of things that I do and dont do. Creating a system that responds to individual needs could make life in the community easier for the elderly  and their caregivers.

Making the needed adjustments for an aging population goes beyond Queens Park. Despite years of lobbying, Canada still needs a national dementia strategy. But, groups like the Alzheimer Society of Canada say momentum may be shifting.

A federal private members bill pushing for a strategy is up for third reading. And last fall, the Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology called for a national strategy so all Canadians have access to good care and choice in where they receive it.

After years of focus on clinical outcomes for the elderly, theres a growing awareness that if life can be extended, it must also be worth living. Programs, whether in the community or long term care, must adapt and allow residents what Harvey calls the dignity of taking risks.

Unfortunately, these innovative ideas remain the exception.

Thats why provincial and federal decision-makers must listen to people like Fred Rieser, whose lost opportunity to advocate for his wife has exposed the need to talk about change. Communication is good. And its long overdue.

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Premier Kathleen Wynne has delivered a hard slap in the face to Toronto by nixing the citys plan to pay for transit by putting tolls on two highways.

Its not just the money  though thats certainly important. The city needs billions to pay for transit, housing and a host of other vital projects. And its far from clear that the extra gasoline tax revenue the premier promises to give the city will match the money that road tolls would raise.

Much more important is the blatant disrespect towards the city, whose mayor and council bravely stepped forward last fall with a proposal they knew would be unpopular with many people. Putting tolls on the Gardiner Expressway and Don Valley Parkway was always going to raise the hackles of commuters, especially those in the 905 suburbs.

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Tory challenges Wynnes leadership after she rejects road tolls, but 905 leaders celebrate

How premier Kathleen Wynne betrayed Toronto mayor John Tory on road tolls: Cohn

City should reconsider things it undertakes given Provinces reluctance to support them: Keenan

Road-toll veto hampers Torontos ability to tackle gridlock, says citys chief planner

Yet Tory took that chance and brought 32 councillors along with him. It was the boldest move to break the logjam in transit funding the city has seen in many years.

For weeks it seemed as if the Wynne Liberals would not stand in the way, even as the Progressive Conservatives and New Democrats at Queens Park raised their faux-populist cries against any sort of toll or tax, anywhere, any time.

Now, suddenly, the premier has vetoed tolls for transparently political reasons. She made the announcement in Richmond Hill, in the heart of suburban commuter country, at a news conference that resembled a campaign rally.

By all accounts, she had been told in no uncertain terms by Liberal MPPs from 905 ridings that she would be cutting her own political throat if she gave the green light to highway tolls.

Instead, she chose to throw Tory and Toronto council overboard, leaving the mayor sputtering about how hes sick of having Queens Park treat him like a little boy in short pants.

No wonder. Toronto put itself through a long, arduous debate over how to fund transit without simply going begging to higher governments. It finally rallied around highway tolls  not a perfect solution, but at least a way forward.

But to what end? If the province can sweep all that aside because some people dont like the outcome, how will the city find the will to make other difficult decisions that require provincial approval, or at least acquiescence? What message does that send to other cities?

To make it all worse, it kills a plan that would have both raised money for transit (in the range of $170 million to $200 million a year to start) and changed behaviour in socially beneficial ways. Tolls would raise the cost of using highways, incenting people to drive less, cutting emissions from cars and trucks, and encouraging more people to use public transit.

Instead, commuters will be spared the pain of paying $2 a trip for the highways they use (less, it should be noted, than transit riders pay every day). And the province promises to make the city whole by doubling the share of the gasoline tax it directs to cities.

In other words, all Ontarians will pay through their general taxes  but voters in a few key suburban swing ridings wont be able to pin the blame for pesky tolls on the Wynne Liberals. And the additional gasoline tax money directed to municipalities ($334 million by 2012-22) wont be available to pay for other pressing needs in Toronto or elsewhere.

Once again, taxpayers will be fooled into thinking there really is a free lunch: more transit at no extra cost.

This is the kind of magical thinking that has gotten the city and the region into the infrastructure mess its in. For far too long, we have collectively refused to pay to keep our roads properly maintained, our transit systems up to date, our public housing fit for human habitation. Politicians have been all too happy to encourage taxpayers in the belief that no more money is needed, that band-aids can be applied by shuffling existing funds around.

Its disappointing that a Liberal premier, whatever the political imperatives facing her, would torpedo a modest but genuine attempt to break that cycle.

She will now have to tell the city where the money for its other priorities is coming from, since Queens Park clearly wont allow it to grow up and take control of its own destiny.

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Re: Toronto police should step away from Pride Parade, Shree Paradkar, Jan. 23

Toronto police should step away from Pride Parade, Shree Paradkar, Jan. 23

It is quite obvious that Shree Paradkar has missed the point and not Premier Kathleen Wynne.

The point is not whether the police should or should not participate, but rather the bullying tactics employed by Black Lives Matter. Hijacking the parade last year, holding it up and leaving thousands farther along the parade route scared and confused and wondering what had happened (Anti-LGBTQ2 radicals? Terrorists?) is the point.

Black Lives Matter could have done this peacefully and calmly by requesting a sit-down after the parade to discuss how to approach police participation for the next year. They would definitely have garnered more support. All the organization achieved is to make people angry and to fuel the fire for bigots.

This group, more than some others, should know that exclusion of any group is discrimination.

Paradkar states that it took almost two decades for a uniformed police officer to walk in the parade. Why does she think its now a good idea to undo the progress? The police were not bullied into participating but rather came to the realization that it is the right thing to do. She now wants them to be excluded again. Really?

Fuelling the fire of discrimination does no one any good and might have the unexpected consequence of putting the fight for equality for all groups centuries backward.

Rita Maio, Woodbridge

For last years Pride, I had two young men help me decorate our churchs float (MCC Toronto). As we walked up Church St. to Rosedale Valley Rd., we passed several groups of uniformed officers. All were having a great time taking pictures and mixing with the throng.

I asked several rainbow-clad offices if my young friends could pose with them. The boys looked surprised when they were gathered up by the group of constables and posed for pictures.

One boy is a refugee from Indonesia, where police constantly threatened his life. The other was a refugee from Russia who had faced equal fears. I told them they should send the pics home to their friends still trying to escape, as a sign of hope. The police were so sympathetic, they gave the boys their rainbow flags and lots of hugs.

If you think these amazing people wont be offended by having their float and groups ejected from our inclusive Pride, I think you are wrong. I think you are wrong for accepting this. It is also wrong that Black Lives Matter members cant, or wont, see this.

There may not be too many of us old enough to have marched back in the 80s, before so many worked so hard to build this bridge between the gay community and Toronto police. When police attended a march in those days, they would tape over their badge numbers so they couldnt be identified if there was an altercation.

Today, they have a float that some wish to deny them. This bullying action is really about revenge and reciprocity, not equality of rights.

Roy Dean, Toronto

Stay inclusive, editorial, Feb. 19

To promote inclusion by exercising exclusion is a contradiction in terms. In this case, not of an individual but of an indispensable social institution: the police.

Like all social institutions and individuals, police are not perfect. But they serve an important societal faction and are essential for our well-being. No society or group like Black Lives Matter can function effectively without some semblance of law and order and the department to ensure it.

For the effective and smooth working of a society, mutual understating, critical appreciation and constructive criticism are a must. Both Black Lives Matter and Toronto police have to open channels that lead to mutual understanding, critical appreciation and constructive criticism, rather than boycott and exclusion.

Clarence McMullen, Richmond Hill

Im sorry, but Shree Paradkars column indicates a serious lack of understanding in how Toronto police and the LGBT community were able to build the bridges necessary for todays working relationship  they sat down and talked it out. Together. In the same room. At the same time.

If Black Lives Matter wants a better relationship with police, slamming doors is not the way to do it. That is not how we do things in Canada. If Pride and BLM are serious about wanting better relations with the police, then it starts with communication. And it has to be a two-way street.

Is that going to right the wrongs of the past? No. But it can avert ones in the future. And isnt that the whole point?

Sean Martin, Doc and Raider cartoonist, Montreal

As a gay man who grew up in the 50s and 60s in Toronto, when it was downright dangerous to be perceived by police, teachers or just about anyone else in authority as being gay, and as one who remembers well the police bathhouse raids, I am amazed and thankful for the police inclusion in my parade.

I cannot begin to know the feelings of the black community regarding systemic racism and I dont pretend to. But I do remember the hostility by police and society in general toward the LGBTQ community.

A few years ago, as I walked down Church St. before the parade, I stopped at the police booth and talked to two young officers  one male one female. I commented on how entirely things had changed within my lifetime in police/gay relations. They acknowledged the change.

If Pride is really about inclusion, then all should be included, all who want to be a part of this amazing presentation of acceptance and celebration.

Stephen Bloom, Toronto

It is difficult for me to understand what gives Black Lives Matter the right to command obedience from Pride parade organizers as to who may participate. The whole basis of Pride is openness, inclusion and fairness. It surprises me somewhat that many black people with happy families do not speak up and reject these vengeful folk.

As a senior on a social justice team in my United Church, I believe in Love one another. It is impossible for me to understand why, even if people believe they have been excluded or treated unfairly, they would deliberately want to do the same to others.

Throughout my life and the lives of my children and grandchildren, I have always been proud of our Toronto police. If Pride organizers go along with the demands of Black Lives Matter and exclude the police, I will never attend another parade. I would never think of participating in wilful exclusion of any members of society.

Shirley Bush, Toronto

Like many supporters of the LGBT community, I was deeply disappointed by the decision of Pride Torontos membership to exclude police from the parade.

In 1994, I was one of three Liberal MPPs to vote for Bill 167 (extending spousal benefits to same-sex couples). That bill was defeated because people were not ready to fully accept gays and lesbians as inclusive members of our society, with the same rights, protections and responsibilities. We have come a long way in 20 years.

Now, members of Pride Toronto have decided that inclusiveness should only apply to them, not to members of the police who have participated in their parade and supported them for the past decade.

It should be a matter of celebration to have the support of the police, not a denigration. Lets hope the executive of Pride Toronto has enough courage to reject the memberships vote and continue to welcome the police to serve, protect and be included.

Dianne Poole, Eglinton MPP (1987-1995), Toronto

The recent decision by Pride Toronto to acquiesce to the written demand of Black Lives Matter to exclude Toronto police floats from the Pride Parade is a decision that demands we stop and think for a moment about the consequences of such actions.

Both Pride and BLM have indicated they are anti-discriminatory organizations that are dedicated to embracing the values of equality, inclusion and self-recognition of ourselves as human beings first and a minority second.

However, when two organizations that profess the demand for non-discriminatory inclusion elect to omit a third party, then both organizations have actively discriminated against a third party, therefore no longer making them anti-discriminatory in their nature.

Troy J. Young, Toronto

How disappointing to see that the Pride membership voted at their AGM to endorse the demands of Black Lives Matter to compromise police presence at the parade.

Pride Week and the parade were intentioned to celebrate the overall gay lifestyle and has become perhaps the largest gay cultural event in the world, attracting much business and dollars to the local economy.

It would be a shame if a subversive and racist segment of the Black Lives Matter group could influence Pride through blackmail to bow to their demands and threaten this week-long event.

Marty Fruchtman, Toronto

Has Pride Toronto become totally unglued? To succumb to a nutty fringe group like Black Lives Matter is disgraceful.

Of course the police and their floats should be included in the parade. As the Star notes in its editorial, Pride is about inclusivity. Their slogan in last years festival was You can sit with us. This says it all.

As a frequent volunteer for Pride and having marshalled in the parade for many years, I was always thrilled to see police contingents from all over southern Ontario involved in the march. Its also great to see folks from all political stripes, from Justin Trudeau to Rona Ambrose and Patrick Brown.

The Pride festival has gone way beyond the LGBTQ+ community. It also represents what Canada is trying to be: a country that is not perfect but compared to the rest of the world, is diverse, inclusive and relatively tolerant.

Andrew van Velzen, Toronto

Most of Black Lives Matters demands to Pride Toronto were reasonable, aside from the demand that Toronto police be banned from future parades.

If BLM is having problems with Toronto police, then a proactive response would be to request assistance from the LGBT+ community in establishing better relations with them. After all, we have more than 35 years of hugely successful experience. Pride Torontos decision to ban police, many of whom are members of the LGBT+ community, is narrow, counterproductive and exclusionary.

If the smiling faces of our diverse officers in uniform are excluded from the 2017 parade, then mine will be too.

Edmond Comrie, Toronto

I want to make it very clear that Pride Torontos endorsement of BLMs anti-police participation stance does not resonate well with me nor many others in the gay community. While it is incontrovertible that much work needs to be done in the police race-relations department, shutting the constabulary out of the historically inclusive Pride festivities is not the way to do it.

Rob Graham, Toronto

The Pride parade is a celebration of who we are and our achievement in a long fight to defeat discrimination of any sort. Our parade must be welcoming to all those who wish to take part in celebrating our pride and achievement. All must be welcome or we are defeating the very win we are celebrating.

Decades ago, the gay community was discriminated against and subjected to horror and even murder. It was a long and difficult fight to win equality, respect and put an end to discrimination (which still exists in some degree).

Developing a relationship with police  an understanding of where they went wrong and where we went wrong  was our greatest achievement and, for years now, we have celebrated that understanding and we have grown to respect one another.

To ban anyone is to discriminate  the very thing we fought so long to end. We cannot now be guilty of the very thing we fought against. Acceptance is a two-way street and requires effort and assistance. Other groups at odds with the police should learn from our efforts, not try to undo and destroy it.

Tim Devlin, Toronto

As your editorial points out, relations between police and the LGBT community are better than they once were, but there is still much to be done. If police are to be barred from participating in Pride events, you have to ask a simple question: How does this help?

Police officers who are also members of the LGBT community are evidently being told their presence will only be tolerated if they are out of uniform  in other words, only if they are willing to pretend they are not police officers. How long has it been true that members of the LGBT community have been told their presence would only be tolerated if they pretended not to be gay?

If the lesson being taught is that discrimination against any identifiable group is not acceptable, why should there be an exception for police officers? And why are Pride organizers taking direction from Black Lives Matter, a group with an obvious anti-police bias?

Steve Soloman, Toronto

As a Toronto police officer, I am dumbfounded and in disbelief of the decision by Pride Toronto to exclude police from participating in future parades and events.

Pride is an organization that has clearly lost itself to political and self-righteous agendas. This decision is based on complaints by Black Lives Matter Toronto, a racist organization of hate mongers and bigots who strive to achieve divisiveness within this community, and whose sole purpose seems to be to undermine progress in race and social relations between police and the public.

This is a shameful and disrespectful decision by Pride Toronto and should be widely condemned. I urge everyone to boycott this event in the future, as it does not reflect the values of inclusion, respect and community that Pride purports itself to be founded on; nor does it reflect the values of a civilized and progressive society that we Canadians should embrace.

Aaron Hodges, Newmarket

I was shocked and disappointed that members of Pride Toronto voted to ban police at the annual parade.

By capitulating to the demands of Black Lives Matter, Pride Toronto has sent a message that we are weak, unprincipled and easily intimidated. More troubling, it says that Pride Toronto no longer supports the traditional values of the LGBTQ community of tolerance and inclusion. These have been replaced by the values of discrimination, prejudice and exclusion.

If the board of Pride Toronto supports the action taken at the AGM, it would not be appropriate for the mayor, the premier and the prime minister to appear at the parade. It will no longer be the Pride I have been so proud of for many years.

Riaan Meyer, Toronto

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Thank you to all the wonderful women organizing and participating in the worldwide marches. The Toronto gathering appeared to me as one of the largest events of its kind and the energy, enthusiasm and commitment pouring from people of all ages, stripes and interests was truly inspiring.

Of all the great plans that are in place to help reach the goals outlined by so many great speakers, may I suggest that women reclaim Mothers Day as an annual day of action and advocacy.

That day has lost its real meaning and value over the years. It was not started as a day to treat mom to a pricey brunch or special gift. It was founded as a day to work for peace and to recognize the specific and general contributions women make in that quest.

We could all march again on Sunday, May 14, and go for brunch later.

Lee Rickwood, Toronto

It was disappointing to see that the entire coverage in the Sunday Star was on the Washington march. I was at Queens Park in Toronto Saturday, along with thousands and thousands of women and men of all ages.

Yes, we were in support of the anti-Trump Washington event, but it was more than that. It was a statement of solidarity among women worldwide, a necessary reminder of the dignity, respect and equality owed women everywhere and the need, still, to battle homophobia and the ills of patriarchy wherever is it found.

We are not the States, and I am glad to be Canadian, but there was a recognized need to be vigilant here as well as abroad. In Saturdays march in Toronto and elsewhere in Canada, there was a feeling of camaraderie and a show of power.

Barbara Sternberg, Toronto

Willow Wilkinson, 7, sits on her father Jordon Wilkinsons shoulders, with brother Rowan, 9, at Queens Park, Jan. 22.

This picture, with the sign FIGHT LIKE A GIRL sends a very powerful message  love, strength, family, hope  all that is good in society.

Our future is in good hands!

Susan Dutton, Port Hope, Ont.

I was very disturbed to read that they fingerprinted people who wanted to cross the border to attend the womens march in Washington.

Whose idea was this? On what database are their prints being stored? Who has access to it? How long with they keep their fingerprints on file? What will this mean for them if they try to fly away on a holiday or visit friends in the States? Who authorized this fingerprinting of our citizens who have committed no crime and were not even talking about committing a crime?

I was aware that we resemble an oligarchy more than we do a democracy these days but this over-the-top extreme response to a peaceful and authorized political protest is seriously disquieting.

Cathy Allen, Toronto

It was outrageous that Americans stopped Canadian citizens from crossing the border if they were not Trump supporters. Our politicians should be demanding an apology.

Gordon Osborne, Brighton, Ont.

It was intensely gratifying to see the hundreds of thousands of people who took to the streets of Washington and other cities around the world, to voice their opposition to the presidential regime of conman Donald Trump and the control of the U.S. Congress by extreme right-wing Republicans.

But the difficult task ahead will be to maintain and develop this political resistance in the cities and states across the U.S., the countrys judicial system, and the mainstream and Internet news media.

Opponents of Trump and the Republicans are up against a powerful, clever, ferocious and enormously wealthy group of robber barons and their widespread network of agents, shills and propagandists. Those planning to fight the new U.S. strongman would do well to heed the lessons of the failed Occupy movement, which fizzled from a lack of leadership, focus, long-term strategy and money.

And lest Canadians be complacent or holier-than-thou about the mess south of the border, the recent lengthy rule by the Stephen Harper regime and the Trump wannabes lining up to replace him should give us pause.

Raphael Vigod, Toronto

Before the new U.S. president was even seated behind the Oval Office desk, there were huge protests against him raging around the planet. Protesters displayed extreme umbrage to his over-the-top rhetoric during the election campaign, and the fact that his opponent never fulfilled her promise to shatter the fabled glass ceiling.

I would not have voted for either candidate had I the franchise to, but admire how Donald Trump managed to defeat all the establishment figures in both political parties and to effectively squeeze the breath out of the talking heads, by disproving all predictions by pompous press pundits and pollsters during the long campaign.

I dont know how his unexpected presidency will unfold, especially given the past 16 years with wars and acts of terrorism. Im willing to wait and see, rather than condemn him before he starts.

I also admired many aspects of the womens march. I was struck by the sheer numbers of protesters worldwide; by the cute and symbolic pink pussy-hats; by the wittiness and artistic talent of some of the signs on display; by the power of social media to have such a response to a grass-roots idea; by the global organization of it all; by the way some show-business types and icons of the feminist movement participated and by how some opportunistic politicians jumped on the bandwagon.

Bernie Smith, Parksville, B.C.

With numbers too large to ignore, women have made history all over the United States. Strong and invincible, women are not about to let their voices be suppressed  especially by a president with a long history of degrading women. With more than two million strong, criticizing the womens marches wont do President Donald Trump any good. After all, We are one nation and their pain is our pain. Or is that reserved only for when it serves Trumps purposes?

JoAnn Lee Frank, Clearwater, Fla.

These anti-Trump marches might actually mean something had the candidate of choice for many of these demonstrators actually won. She didnt and he did  it is that simple. The Donald will be President of the United States for the next four, or hopefully eight, years and will make America great again. Marching in the streets of Washington, Seattle, London or Toronto wont change that fact or change the Trump agenda.

Curt Shalapata, Oshawa

Much as I agree the march was impressive, appropriate and useful, how many demonstrators went out to fight for the most serious issue of our times, the degradation of our environment? Nobody. Zero demonstrations. That, folks, is how we, the people, really feel about the environment compared to other issues.

Geoff Fridd, Toronto

I am glad that on just the second day of the Trump presidency women are marching in large numbers in Washington, D.C. and across the country to protest against Donald Trump, who has been so demeaning and critical of women, and to support womens rights and issues.

Unfortunately, what they are doing is too little, too late. If they had acted a couple of months ago, when Democrats, Hillary Clinton and our country really needed them they could have prevented a Trump presidential victory.

Although I applaud the womens efforts, their voice at the ballot box would have counted a lot more and been more effective than on the streets of America.

Kenneth L. Zimmerman, Huntington Beach, Calif.

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Workers on a new Trump building in Uruguay are unfazed by Donald Trump's inflammatory rhetoric, but mess with their lunch, and there's hell to pay.

Construction workers on the Trump Tower building currently under development in South American coastal city Punta del Este, Uruguay went on a short strike last December, reports local media outlet El Pais. The motive: about a dozen stolen sausages.

While preparing a lunchtime barbecue, workers discovered that 11 chorizos -- pork sausages that are a must-have at any local asado-- were nowhere to be found. In response to the chorizo robbery, the group halted work until the missing meat was located.

A quick and thorough search began, resulting in the eventual discovery of the lost sausages in one of the workers' backpacks. The barbecue recommenced, as did work on Trump Tower.

The development is expected to be completed in 2017 -- provided there are no more meat-based scandals to get in the way.

Juan di Salvo, Sales Director of Trump Tower Punta del Este, confirmed the incident in a phone interview from Buenos Aires, Argentina. "It was real," he said, chuckling, adding that the building's developers were only alerted to the hiccup by the El Pais report, the source of which he assumed must have been one of the union workers on the job.

Di Salvo works for Fortune International Realty, the Miami-based real estate sales and rental company that has teamed up with Buenos Aires developer YY Development Group to market Trump Tower Punta del Este.

Announced in 2012 at a press conference attended by real-estate-magnate-turned-Republican-frontrunner Trump and his three children, Eric, Ivanka and Donald, Jr., the luxury residential oceanfront building is being spearheaded by Argentine architects Bernardo Dujovne, Silvia Hirsch and Maria Dujovne of Dujovne-Hirsch & Associates.

From time to time, Trump's son Eric travels to the beachfront city, a popular destination for many of South America's most affluent individuals, for a few days to scope out the progress of the development, to which the Trump Organization has licensed its name and brand. While visiting, Trump does a mini media tour as well.

During a January 2015 visit, Eric's wife, Lara Yunaska, who he married in late 2014, revealed in an interview with Hola! that the pair's travel schedule had kept them from taking a honeymoon. While on this year's trip, Eric talked to El Paisabout his father's White House prospects, telling the publication he believes he will win and comparing him to Argentine President Mauricio Macri.

Once completed, Trump Tower Punta del Este will have 154 apartments and two penthouse spaces. According to di Salvo, about 60% of the development's apartments have already been sold, largely to Argentines, Uruguayans, Europeans and Americans. The going price: about $450 to $650 per square foot, with one-bedroom apartments starting at about $419,500 and three-bedroom spaces starting at $1.4 million. The penthouses have not yet been priced.

Move-ins will begin in December 2017. The development was initially expected to be completed sometime this year, but shake-ups in internal directors and floor plan modifications have extended the timeline.

As to whether Trump's controversial comments on the campaign trail have had any impact on the Uruguay development, di Salvo says no. "For us, in sales, it hasn't changed absolutely anything," he said.

In fact, by his estimates, apartment prices have increased about 10% since last year.

And it's not just Trump Tower Punta del Este's developers and sellers who aren't concerned about Trump's wild ride to the White House -- workers on the development probably aren't, either.

In an interview last July on the heels of the businessman's inflammatory comments about Mexicans and immigrants, Faustino Rodriguez, head of Uruguayan construction labor union SUNCA, said it doesn't matter what Trump says as long as his workers are getting paid.

"We don't need to agree with whatever he decides to say," he said. "We just want to keep our jobs."
Americans and Canadians move abroad for many reasons, including the weather, lower costs, better lifestyle, and for Americans still working, the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion. Which country would be best for you?

At Best Places in the World to Retire, we have more than 500 contributors (mostly expats) who have answered almost 9,000 of the most often asked questions about moving abroad. Below you'll find what they have to say about five of the most popular destination countries: Mexico, Panama, Belize, Nicaragua and Portugal.

Mexico

By far the most often asked question is, "Is Mexico safe from violent crime?" There is no doubt that the perception, especially in the U.S., is that it is dangerous to be in Mexico. However, judging from the responses from our contributors, as well as our experience after more than seven months driving thousands of miles on our Mexico road trip, I can report that if you stay out of the well-known, more dangerous areas, this perception is wrong.

Just as you would need more specifics about location when considering crime rates in a U.S. city, the same holds true for Mexico. Some areas in big cities have high crime rates but surrounding communities may not. Our contributors in the well-known expat areas like Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Ajijic, San Miguel de Allende and the Yucatan areas like Cancun and Merida report that they feel safe from violent crime, although they will also say that petty theft is a bigger concern than in most places in the U.S. or Canada.

After dispatching the safety issue, Mexico has a lot of advantages, including:

It borders the U.S.

Well-known expat areas have great healthcare, some rivaling the U.S. in technology but at less than a quarter of the cost.

In addition to its famous beaches, it also has highland areas such Ajijic and San Miguel de Allende where the weather is moderate year round.

In addition, English speakers abound in the best-known areas. Mexican food can be exceptional. Prices are, by American and Canadian standards, low. A housecleaner is $2.50 per hour, a haircut is under $2.80, a fabulous all-you-can-eat Sunday brunch on a lake is $5.50 and the cost to build your dream home in Mexico is about $50 per square foot.

Panama

Although Panama is only about half the size of the state of New York and less than 1/25th the size of Mexico, Panama has amazing diversity. You can enjoy the sophistication and modern big city experience of Panama City, sometimes compared with Miami, and within just a few miles of the city center, be immersed in a thick, tropical, gorgeous jungle.

In Panama you can be on the beach at Coronado, a little more than an hour from Panama City, or up in the nearby mountains in El Valle de Anton, which is a little cooler, or in the famous expat location of Boquete at around 5,000 feet elevation, and which our contributors say has a perpetual spring-like climate. You can even find a Caribbean vibe in Bocas del Toro, which like Boquete, is located near the border with Costa Rica. Panama is narrow enough that a resident can easily surf in the Pacific in the morning and scuba dive in the Caribbean in the afternoon of the same day.

The main advantages of Panama are that it uses the U.S. dollar, has a friendly visa program, especially for retirees, English is widely spoken, and hurricanes in Panama are a rarity. Also, in many areas, Panama will be less expensive than the U.S. or Canada, although prices are rising along with Panama's popularity.

Drawbacks include that outside Panama City, where the health care is superb, and to a lesser extent, nearby Coronado, quick access to world-class healthcare can be problematic.

Belize

Formerly British Honduras, Belize is a small country just south of Mexico on the Caribbean with a tiny population of around 350,000 where English is the official language and the legal system is modeled on English Common Law. None of the more popular locations in Belize have much elevation, so the weather is universally warm. Near the sea, the breeze mitigates the heat.

If you like spectacular water, you will love Belize. The world's second largest barrier reef is just off the coast, making for calm, dazzlingly colored, warm water. The principal expat areas are San Pedro (on Ambergris Caye, regarded as one of the most beautiful islands in the world), the peninsula of Placencia, usually less than half a mile wide and about 13 miles long, Corozal, which is on a large bay near to Mexico, and the inland areas of the Cayo District, which tend to be less expensive, agricultural, and with several rivers.

Our contributors in Belize enjoy the slow, laid-back lifestyle. They also tell us that if you're into consumerism, Belize is not the place for you. There's not a single mall or franchise restaurant in the country. If you need your American brand, imported goods and the newest fashions from Paris, you may be able to find them, but they will be more expensive than in the U.S. or Canada. Also, if you need ongoing access to high-end medical care, Belize is not for you.

Nicaragua

The prices in Nicaragua tend to be on par with much of Mexico or perhaps even lower. Contributors say that Nicaragua has the raw, natural beauty of several volcanoes and inland lakes that are largely undeveloped and not yet heavily trafficked by tourists.

This is not to say that Nicaragua doesn't have areas with creature comforts. There are several high-end resorts and residential developments and a few master-planned gated communities generally along the Pacific. These are consistent with high-quality, American and Canadian suburban living.

You can choose from the famous expat, tourist and surfing area of San Juan del Sur, which still has a bohemian, vibe; Granada, which is a colonial city with colonial architecture and a similar layout and feel; or from several beach-front communities made pretty much for U.S. and Canadian customers, all while enjoying the sun and beach of this largely undiscovered country. If healthcare is an issue for you, it would be best to live near the capital city of Managua, which has a hospital that was accredited by the Joint Commission International, an honor that is difficult to attain.

Portugal

We included Portugal in our list because so many people find it so pleasant. Portugal has a pleasant climate, even more so in the famous region of Algarve, on Portugal's southern coast. Algarve has many expats, particularly Brits, world-renowned food and wine, prices significantly cheaper than in most of Europe and a relaxed lifestyle, all with good infrastructure and fairly good healthcare.

Which of these countries and regions is best for you would depend on what you like. What is undeniable, though, is that there are many options.

This article is commentary by an independent contributor.
The following companies are subsidiares of Novartis: 1 A Pharma GmbH, Abadia Retuerta S.A, Admune Therapeutics, Advanced Accelerator Applications, Advanced Accelerator Applications, Advanced Accelerator Applications International SA, Advanced Accelerator Applications S.A., Advanced Accelerator Applications S.r.l., Advanced Accelerator Applications USA Inc., Aeropharm GmbH, Alcon, Alcon  Couvreur NV, Amblyotech, Amblyotech Inc., Arctos Medical, Arctos Medical AG, Australia Pty Ltd, Beijing Novartis Pharma Co. Ltd., BioMedical Research Co. Ltd., CELLforCURE, Cadent Therapeutics, Cadent Therapeutics Cambridge, Cellerys, Cellerys AG, CellforCure, Chiron Corporation, Ciba-Geigy Japan Limited, Co. Ltd, CoStim Pharmaceuticals, CoStim Pharmaceuticals Inc., Coalesce Product Development Limited, Corthera, Development Co. Ltd., EBEWE Pharma Ges.m.b.H Nfg. KG, Encore Vision, Endocyte, Endocyte Inc., Eon Labs Inc., Farmanova Saglik Hizmetleri Ltd, Fougera Pharmaceuticals, Fougera Pharmaceuticals Inc, Gyroscope Therapeutics, HEXAL AG, Hexal, IDB Holland BV, Iberica S.L.U., Ilaclari Sanayi ve Ticaret A.S, JSC Sandoz, Japat AG, Kedalion Therapeutics Inc., Lek Pharmaceuticals d.d., Lek S.A., Manufacturing Pte Ltd , Navigate BioPharma Services Inc, Neutec Pharma Limited, Novartis (Hellas) S.A.C.I., Novartis (Singapore) Pte Ltd, Novartis (Taiwan) Co. Ltd, Novartis (Thailand) Limited, Novartis Argentina S.A., Novartis Australia Pty Ltd, Novartis Austria GmbH, Novartis Biociencias S.A., Novartis Biosciences Peru S.A., Novartis Bioventures AG, Novartis Business Services GmbH, Novartis Capital Corporation, Novartis Chile S.A., Novartis Corporation, Novartis Corporation Sdn. Bhd., Novartis Deutschland GmbH, Novartis Ecuador S.A., Novartis Farma S.p.A., Novartis Farma  Produtos Farmaceuticos S.A., Novartis Farmaceutica S.A, Novartis Farmaceutica S.A. de C.V., Novartis Finance Corporation, Novartis Finance S.A., Novartis Finance Services Ltd, Novartis Finland Oy Espoo, Novartis Gene Therapies, Novartis Gene Therapies EU Limited, Novartis Gene Therapies Inc., Novartis Grimsby Limited, Novartis Groupe France S.A., Novartis Healthcare A/S, Novartis Healthcare Philippines Inc., Novartis Healthcare Private Limited, Novartis Holding AG, Novartis Hungary Healthcare Limited Liability Company, Novartis India Limited, Novartis Inflammasome Research, Novartis Integrated Services Limited, Novartis International AG, Novartis International Pharmaceutical Investment AG, Novartis Investment Ltd, Novartis Investments S.a r.l., Novartis Ireland Limited, Novartis Israel Ltd, Novartis Korea Ltd., Novartis Middle East FZE, Novartis Netherlands B.V., Novartis Neva LLC, Novartis New Zealand Ltd, Novartis Norge AS, Novartis Ophthalmics AG, Novartis Optogenetics Research Inc., Novartis Overseas Investments AG, Novartis Pharma (Logistics) Inc., Novartis Pharma (Pakistan) Limited, Novartis Pharma AG, Novartis Pharma B.V. , Novartis Pharma GmbH, Novartis Pharma GmbH, Novartis Pharma K.K., Novartis Pharma LLC, Novartis Pharma Maroc SA, Novartis Pharma NV, Novartis Pharma Produktions GmbH, Novartis Pharma S.A.E., Novartis Pharma S.A.S., Novartis Pharma Schweiz AG, Novartis Pharma Schweizerhalle AG, Novartis Pharma Services AG, Novartis Pharma Services Romania S.R.L., Novartis Pharma Stein AG, Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc., Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, Novartis Pharmaceuticals Limited, Novartis Pharmaceuticals UK Limited, Novartis Poland Sp. z o.o., Novartis Portugal S.G.P.S. Lda., Novartis Ringaskiddy Limited, Novartis Saglik Gida ve Tarim Urunleri Sanayi ve Ticaret A.S, Novartis Saudi Ltd., Novartis Securities Investment Ltd, Novartis Services Inc., Novartis Slovakia s.r.o., Novartis South Africa (Pty) Ltd, Novartis Sverige AB, Novartis UK Limited, Novartis US Foundation, Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics Inc, Novartis Vietnam Company Limited, Novartis de Colombia S.A., Novartis de Venezuela S.A., Novartis s.r.o., Oriel Therapeutics Inc., PT. Novartis Indonesia, Protez Pharmaceuticals, Pte Ltd, Research Inc, Salutas Pharma GmbH, Sandoz A/S, Sandoz AG, Sandoz B.V., Sandoz Canada Inc., Sandoz Egypt Pharma S.A.E., Sandoz Farmaceutica S.A., Sandoz Farmaceutica Lda., Sandoz GmbH, Sandoz Hungary Limited Liability Company, Sandoz Ilac Sanayi ve Ticaret A.S., Sandoz Inc, Sandoz Industrial Products S.A, Sandoz International GmbH, Sandoz K.K., Sandoz Limited, Sandoz Manufacturing Inc., Sandoz NV, Sandoz Pharma K.K, Sandoz Pharmaceuticals AG, Sandoz Pharmaceuticals d.d., Sandoz Philippines Corporation, Sandoz Polska Sp. z o.o. , Sandoz Private Limited, Sandoz Pty Ltd, Sandoz S.A. de C.V, Sandoz S.A.S., Sandoz S.R.L., Sandoz S.p.A., Sandoz South Africa (Pty) Ltd, Sandoz Ukraine LLC, Sandoz d.o.o. farmaceutska industrija, Sandoz do Brasil Industria Farmaceutica Ltda, Sandoz s.r.o., Selexys Pharmaceuticals Corporation, Shanghai Novartis Trading Ltd., Societe par actions SANDOZ, Spinifex Pharmaceuticals, The Medicines Company, The Medicines Company, Triangle International Reinsurance Limited, Trinity River Insurance Co Ltd, Vedere Bio, Vedere Bio ll, Xiidra, Ziarco, and Ziarco Group Limited.

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The following companies are subsidiares of Novo Nordisk A/S: Aldaph SpA, Beijing Novo Nordisk Pharmaceuticals Science & Technology Co. Ltd., CS Solar Fund XIV LLC, Calibrium, Corvidia, Corvidia Therapeutics Inc., Dicerna Pharmaceuticals, Dicerna Pharmaceuticals Inc., Emisphere Technologies, Emisphere Technologies Inc., MB2 LLC, NNE A/S, Neotope Neuroscience Limited, Novo Nordisk, Novo Nordisk (China) Pharmaceuticals Co. Ltd., Novo Nordisk (Pty) Limited, Novo Nordisk (Shanghai) Pharma Trading Co. Ltd., Novo Nordisk B.V., Novo Nordisk Canada Inc., Novo Nordisk Colombia SAS, Novo Nordisk Comercio Produtos Farmaceuticos Lda., Novo Nordisk Denmark A/S, Novo Nordisk Egypt LLC, Novo Nordisk Farma OY, Novo Nordisk Farma S.R.L., Novo Nordisk Farma dooel, Novo Nordisk Farmaceutica Limitada, Novo Nordisk Farmaceutica do Brasil Ltda., Novo Nordisk Finance (Netherlands) B.V., Novo Nordisk Health Care AG, Novo Nordisk Hellas Epe., Novo Nordisk Holding Limited, Novo Nordisk Hong Kong Limited, Novo Nordisk Hrvatska d.o.o., Novo Nordisk Hungaria Kft., Novo Nordisk Inc., Novo Nordisk India Holding Pte Ltd., Novo Nordisk India Private Limited, Novo Nordisk Kazakhstan LLP, Novo Nordisk Kenya Ltd., Novo Nordisk Lanka (PVT) Ltd, Novo Nordisk Limited, Novo Nordisk Limited Liability Company, Novo Nordisk Ltd, Novo Nordisk Mexico S.A. de C.V., Novo Nordisk North America Operations A/S, Novo Nordisk Norway AS, Novo Nordisk Panama S.A., Novo Nordisk Pars, Novo Nordisk Peru S.A.C., Novo Nordisk Pharma (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, Novo Nordisk Pharma (Private) Limited, Novo Nordisk Pharma (Singapore) Pte Ltd., Novo Nordisk Pharma (Taiwan) Ltd., Novo Nordisk Pharma (Thailand) Ltd., Novo Nordisk Pharma AG, Novo Nordisk Pharma Argentina S.A., Novo Nordisk Pharma EAD, Novo Nordisk Pharma GmbH, Novo Nordisk Pharma Gulf FZE, Novo Nordisk Pharma Inc., Novo Nordisk Pharma Korea Ltd., Novo Nordisk Pharma Limited, Novo Nordisk Pharma Ltd., Novo Nordisk Pharma Operations (Business Area) Sdn Bhd, Novo Nordisk Pharma Operations A/S, Novo Nordisk Pharma S.A., Novo Nordisk Pharma SARL, Novo Nordisk Pharma SAS, Novo Nordisk Pharma Sp.z.o.o., Novo Nordisk Pharma d.o.o., Novo Nordisk Pharma d.o.o. Belgrade (Serbia), Novo Nordisk Pharmaceutical Industries LP, Novo Nordisk Pharmaceutical Services Sp. z o.o., Novo Nordisk Pharmaceuticals (Philippines) Inc., Novo Nordisk Pharmaceuticals A/S, Novo Nordisk Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Novo Nordisk Pharmaceuticals Pty. Ltd., Novo Nordisk Pharmatech A/S, Novo Nordisk Pharmatech US Inc., Novo Nordisk Production SAS, Novo Nordisk Production Support LLC, Novo Nordisk Producao Farmaceutica do Brasil Ltda., Novo Nordisk Region AAMEO and LATAM A/S, Novo Nordisk Region China A/S, Novo Nordisk Region Europe A/S, Novo Nordisk Region Japan & Korea A/S, Novo Nordisk Research Center Indianapolis Inc., Novo Nordisk Research Center Seattle Inc., Novo Nordisk S.P.A., Novo Nordisk Saglik Urunleri Tic. Ltd. Sti., Novo Nordisk Saudi for Trading, Novo Nordisk Scandinavia AB, Novo Nordisk Service Centre (India) Pvt. Ltd., Novo Nordisk Slovakia s.r.o., Novo Nordisk Tunisie SARL, Novo Nordisk US Bio Production Inc., Novo Nordisk US Commercial Holdings Inc., Novo Nordisk US Holdings Inc., Novo Nordisk Ukraine LLC, Novo Nordisk Venezuela Casa de Representacion C.A., Novo Nordisk d.o.o., Novo Nordisk s.r.o., PT. Novo Nordisk Indonesia, S.A. Novo Nordisk Pharma N.V., UAB Novo Nordisk Pharma, Xellia Pharmaceuticals, Ziylo, and Ziylo Limited.

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United Parcel Service, Inc. provides letter and package delivery, transportation, logistics, and related services. It operates through two segments, U.S. Domestic Package and International Package. The U.S. Domestic Package segment offers time-definite delivery of letters, documents, small packages, and palletized freight through air and ground services in the United States. The International Package segment provides guaranteed day and time-definite international shipping services in Europe, the Asia Pacific, Canada and Latin America, the Indian sub-continent, the Middle East, and Africa. This segment offers guaranteed time-definite express options. The company also provides international air and ocean freight forwarding, customs brokerage, distribution and post-sales, and mail and consulting services in approximately 200 countries and territories. In addition, it offers truckload brokerage services; supply chain solutions to the healthcare and life sciences industry; shipping, visibility, and billing technologies; and financial and insurance services. The company operates a fleet of approximately 121,000 package cars, vans, tractors, and motorcycles; and owns 59,000 containers that are used to transport cargo in its aircraft. United Parcel Service, Inc. was founded in 1907 and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia.
Quotient Technology Inc. operates as a digital media and promotions technology company that offers power integrated digital media and promotions programs for brands and retailers. The company's Quotient Promotions platform offers digital paperless, print promotion, and cash back rebates, including Coupons.com website and mobile applications; brand and retailer websites and mobile applications; and third-party publishing websites and mobile applications. It also provides Quotient Retailer Promotions Platform that uses consumer data and insights to distribute personalized and targeted media and promotions for retailers of grocery, drug, mass merchant, dollar, club, and convenience merchandise; and Quotient Media Platform, which provides targeted advertising solutions that enables brands to reach shoppers before, during, and after their shopping cycles with digital media campaigns. It also provides Quotient Retailer Performance Media Platform that uses retailer's consumer data to drive sales and enhances the shopper experience; Quotient Analytics provides campaign analytics and measured sales results to brands and retailers; Quotient Consumer Properties; and Quotient Retailer Media Services. It serves approximately 900 consumer packed goods, representing approximately 2,500 brands, including various food, beverage, personal care, and household product manufacturers; retail partners representing various classes of trade, such as grocery retailers, drug, mass merchant, dollar, club, and convenience merchandise channels; and consumers visiting its websites, mobile properties, and social channels. The company was formerly known as Coupons.com Incorporated and changed its name to Quotient Technology Inc. in October 2015. Quotient Technology Inc. was incorporated in 1998 and is headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah.
The following companies are subsidiares of Abbott Laboratories: 3A Nutrition (Vietnam) Company Limited, ABON Biopharm (Hangzhou) Co. Ltd., AGA Medical Belgium, AGA Medical Corporation, AGA Medical Holdings Inc., ALR Holdings, AML Medical LLC, APK Advanced Medical Technologies LLC, ATS Bermuda Holdings Limited, ATS Laboratories Inc., Abbott, Abbott (Jiaxing) Nutrition Co. Ltd., Abbott (UK) Finance Limited, Abbott (UK) Holdings Limited, Abbott AG, Abbott Asia Holdings Limited, Abbott Asia Investments Limited, Abbott Australasia Holdings Limited, Abbott Australasia Pty Ltd, Abbott B.V., Abbott Bahamas Overseas Businesses Corporation, Abbott Belgian Investments, Abbott Bermuda Holding Ltd., Abbott Biologicals B.V., Abbott Biologicals LLC, Abbott Bulgaria Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Capital India Limited, Abbott Cardiovascular Inc., Abbott Cardiovascular Systems Inc., Abbott Delaware LLC, Abbott Diabetes Care Inc., Abbott Diabetes Care Limited, Abbott Diabetes Care Sales Corporation, Abbott Diagnostics GmbH, Abbott Diagnostics International Ltd., Abbott Diagnostics Technologies AS, Abbott Doral Investments S.L., Abbott Equity Holdings Unlimited, Abbott Equity Investments LLC, Abbott Established Products Holdings (Gibraltar) Limited, Abbott Finance Company SA, Abbott Financial Holdings SRL, Abbott France S.A.S., Abbott Fund Tanzania Limited, Abbott Gesellschaft m.b.H., Abbott GmbH & Co. KG, Abbott Health Products LLC, Abbott Healthcare (Puerto Rico) Ltd., Abbott Healthcare B.V., Abbott Healthcare Costa Rica S.A., Abbott Healthcare LLC, Abbott Healthcare Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Healthcare Private Limited, Abbott Healthcare Products B.V., Abbott Healthcare Products Ltd, Abbott Holding (Gibraltar) Limited, Abbott Holding GmbH, Abbott Holding Subsidiary (Gibraltar) Limited, Abbott Holding Subsidiary (Gibraltar) Limited Luxembourg S.C.S., Abbott Holdings B.V., Abbott Holdings LLC, Abbott Holdings Limited, Abbott Holdings Poland Spoka z ograniczona odpowiedzialnoscia, Abbott Hungary Korlatolt Felelossegu Tarsasag, Abbott Iberian Investments (2) Limited, Abbott Iberian Investments Limited, Abbott India Limited, Abbott Informatics Asia Pacific Limited, Abbott Informatics Canada Inc, Abbott Informatics Corporation, Abbott Informatics Europe Limited, Abbott Informatics France, Abbott Informatics Germany GmbH, Abbott Informatics Netherlands B.V., Abbott Informatics Singapore Pte. Limited, Abbott Informatics Spain S.A., Abbott Informatics Technologies Ltd, Abbott International Corporation, Abbott International Enterprises Ltd., Abbott International Holdings Limited, Abbott International LLC, Abbott International Luxembourg S.ar.l., Abbott Investments Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Ireland, Abbott Ireland Financing Designated Activity Company, Abbott Ireland Limited, Abbott Japan Co. Ltd., Abbott Kazakhstan Limited Liability Partnership, Abbott Knoll Investments B.V., Abbott Korea Limited, Abbott Laboratories (Bangladesh) Limited, Abbott Laboratories (Chile) Holdco (Dos) SpA, Abbott Laboratories (Chile) Holdco SpA, Abbott Laboratories (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Abbott Laboratories (Mozambique) Limitada, Abbott Laboratories (Pakistan) Limited, Abbott Laboratories (Philippines), Abbott Laboratories (Puerto Rico) Incorporated, Abbott Laboratories (Singapore) Private Limited, Abbott Laboratories A/S, Abbott Laboratories Argentina Sociedad Anonima, Abbott Laboratories B.V., Abbott Laboratories C.A., Abbott Laboratories Finance B.V., Abbott Laboratories GmbH, Abbott Laboratories Inc., Abbott Laboratories International LLC, Abbott Laboratories Ireland Limited, Abbott Laboratories Limited, Abbott Laboratories Limited - Laboratoires Abbott Limitee, Abbott Laboratories NZ Limited, Abbott Laboratories Pacific Ltd., Abbott Laboratories Poland Spoka z ograniczona odpowiedzialnoscia, Abbott Laboratories Products B.V., Abbott Laboratories Residential Development Fund Inc., Abbott Laboratories S.A., Abbott Laboratories SA, Abbott Laboratories Services Corp., Abbott Laboratories Slovakia s.r.o., Abbott Laboratories South Africa (Pty) Ltd., Abbott Laboratories Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Abbott Laboratories Trustee Company Limited, Abbott Laboratories Uruguay S.A., Abbott Laboratories Vascular Enterprises, Abbott Laboratories d.o.o., Abbott Laboratories de Chile Limitada, Abbott Laboratories de Colombia S.A., Abbott Laboratories de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Abbott Laboratories druzba za farmacijo in diagnostiko d.o.o., Abbott Laboratories s.r.o., Abbott Laboratories(Hellas) Societe Anonyme, Abbott Laboratorios S.A., Abbott Laboratorios S.A., Abbott Laboratorios del Ecuador Cia. Ltda., Abbott Laboratuarlari Ithalat Ihracat ve Ticaret Ltd.Sti, Abbott Laboratorios Lda, Abbott Laboratorios do Brasil Ltda., Abbott Limited Egypt LLC, Abbott Logistics B.V., Abbott Management GmbH, Abbott Management LLC, Abbott Manufacturing Singapore Private Limited, Abbott Mature Products International Unlimited Company, Abbott Mature Products Management Limited, Abbott Medical (Hong Kong) Limited, Abbott Medical (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Abbott Medical (Portugal) Distribuicao de Produtos Medicos Lda, Abbott Medical (Schweiz) AG, Abbott Medical (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Abbott Medical (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., Abbott Medical (Thailand) Co. Ltd., Abbott Medical Australia Pty. Ltd., Abbott Medical Austria Ges.m.b.H., Abbott Medical Balkan d.o.o. Beograd (Novi Beograd), Abbott Medical Belgium, Abbott Medical Canada Inc./ Medicale Abbott Canada Inc., Abbott Medical Danmark A/S, Abbott Medical Devices Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Abbott Medical Espana S.A., Abbott Medical Estonia OU, Abbott Medical Finland Oy, Abbott Medical France SAS, Abbott Medical GmbH, Abbott Medical Hellas Limited Liability Trading Company, Abbott Medical Ireland Limited, Abbott Medical Italia S.p.A., Abbott Medical Japan Co. Ltd., Abbott Medical Korea Limited, Abbott Medical Korlatolt Felelossegu Tarsasag, Abbott Medical Laboratories LTD, Abbott Medical Nederland B.V., Abbott Medical New Zealand Limited, Abbott Medical Norway AS, Abbott Medical Overseas Cyprus Limited, Abbott Medical Sweden AB, Abbott Medical Taiwan Co., Abbott Medical U.K. Limited, Abbott Medical spoka z ograniczona odpowiedzialnoscia, Abbott Middle East S.A.R.L., Abbott Molecular Inc., Abbott Morocco SARL, Abbott Nederland C.V., Abbott Nederland Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Netherlands Investments B.V., Abbott Norge AS, Abbott Nutrition Limited, Abbott Nutrition Manufacturing Inc., Abbott Operations Singapore Pte. Ltd., Abbott Operations Uruguay S.R.L., Abbott Overseas Cyprus Limited, Abbott Overseas Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Overseas S.A., Abbott Oy, Abbott Point of Care Canada Limited, Abbott Point of Care Inc., Abbott Poland Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Procurement LLC, Abbott Products (Philippines) Inc., Abbott Products (Spain) S.L., Abbott Products Algerie EURL, Abbott Products B.V., Abbott Products Distribution SAS, Abbott Products Egypt LLC, Abbott Products Limited, Abbott Products Limited Liability Company, Abbott Products Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Products Operations AG, Abbott Products Operations LLC, Abbott Products Romania S.R.L., Abbott Products Tunisie S.A.R.L., Abbott Products Unlimited Company, Abbott Resources Inc., Abbott Resources International Inc., Abbott S.r.l., Abbott Saudi Arabia Trading Company, Abbott Scandinavia Aktiebolag, Abbott Sociedad Anonima de Capital Variable, Abbott South Africa Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Strategic Opportunities Limited, Abbott Trading Company Inc., Abbott Universal LLC, Abbott Vascular Devices (2) Limited, Abbott Vascular Devices Limited, Abbott Vascular Inc., Abbott Vascular Instruments Deutschland GmbH, Abbott Vascular International, Abbott Vascular Japan Co. Ltd, Abbott Vascular Limitada, Abbott Vascular Netherlands B.V., Abbott Vascular Solutions Inc., Abbott Ventures Inc., Abbott West Indies Limited, Abbott drustvo sa ogranicenom odgovornoscu za trgovinu i usluge, Advanced Neuromodulation Systems Inc., Alere, Alere (Shanghai) Diagnostics Co. Ltd., Alere (Shanghai) Healthcare Management Co. Ltd., Alere (Shanghai) Medical Sales Co. Ltd., Alere (Shanghai) Technology Co. Ltd., Alere A/S, Alere AB, Alere AS, Alere AS Holdings Limited, Alere BBI Holdings Limited, Alere Bangladesh Limited, Alere China Co. Ltd., Alere Colombia S.A., Alere Connect LLC, Alere Connected Health Limited, Alere Connected Health Ltd., Alere Diagnostics GmbH, Alere DoA Holding GmbH, Alere GmbH, Alere GmbH (Austria), Alere GmbH (Germany), Alere HK Holdings Ltd., Alere Health B.V., Alere Health BVBA, Alere Health Corp., Alere Health Sdn Bhd, Alere Health Services B.V., Alere Healthcare (Pty) Limited, Alere Healthcare Connections Limited, Alere Healthcare Inc., Alere Healthcare Nigeria Limited, Alere Healthcare S.L., Alere Holdco Inc., Alere Holding GmbH, Alere Holdings Bermuda Limited, Alere Holdings Pty Limited, Alere Home Monitoring Inc., Alere Inc., Alere Informatics Inc., Alere International Holding Corp., Alere International Limited, Alere Lda, Alere Limited, Alere Limited (New Zealand), Alere Medical BVBA, Alere Medical Co. Ltd., Alere Medical Pakistan (Private) Limited, Alere Medical Private Limited, Alere North America LLC, Alere Oy Ab, Alere Philippines Inc., Alere Phoenix ACQ Inc., Alere Pte Ltd, Alere S.A., Alere S.r.l., Alere S/A, Alere SAS, Alere San Diego Inc., Alere Scarborough Inc., Alere Spain S.L., Alere Switzerland GmbH, Alere Technologies GmbH, Alere Technologies Holdings Limited, Alere Technologies Limited, Alere Toxicology AB, Alere Toxicology Inc., Alere Toxicology S.r.l., Alere Toxicology Services Inc., Alere Toxicology plc, Alere UK Holdings Limited, Alere UK Subco Limited, Alere ULC, Alere US Holdings LLC, Alere s.r.o., Alisoc Investment & Co, Amedica Biotech Inc., Ameditech Inc., American Generics S.A.S., American Medical Supplies Inc., American Pharmacist Inc., Antares S.A., Apica Cardiovascular Limited, Aquagestion Capacitacion S.A., Aquagestion S.A., Arriva Medical LLC, Arriva Medical Philippines Inc., Arvis Investments Limited, Atlas Farmaceutica S.A., Avee Laboratories Inc., Axis-Shield AD III AS, Axis-Shield AD IV AS, Axis-Shield AS, Axis-Shield Diagnostics Limited, Axis-Shield Ltd., BBI Animal Health Limited, BBI Diagnostics Group 2 Public Limited Company, Banco de Vida S.A., Bioabsorbable Vascular Solutions Inc., Bioalgae S.A., Biohealth LLC, Biosite Incorporated, Bosque Bonito S.A., Branan Medical Corporation, Brandex Europe C.V., British Colloids Limited, CFR Chile S.A., CFR Interamericas EL Salvador Sociedad Anonima de Capital Variable, CFR Interamericas Nicaragua Sociedad Anonima, CFR Interamericas Panama S.A., CFR Pharmaceuticals, California Property Holdings III LLC, CardioMEMS LLC, Caripharm Inc., Cephea Valve Technologies, Cephea Valve Technologies Inc., Colibri Medical Aktiebolag, Comercializadora y Distribuidora CFR Interamericas Honduras S.A., Concateno South Limited, Concateno UK Limited, Consorcio Tecnologico en Biomedicina Clinico-Molecular S.A., Continuum Services LLC, Cozart Limited, Dextech S.A., Diagnostik Nord GmbH, Distribuciones Uquifa S.A.S., Domesco Medical Import-Export Joint-Stock Corporation, Duphar International Research B.V., Endocardial Solutions, Epocal (US) Inc, Esprit de Vie S.A., European Chemicals & Co, European Drug Testing Service EDTS AB, European Services S.A., Evalve Inc., Evalve International Inc., FARMINDUSTRIA S.A., Fada Pharma Paraguay Sociedad Anonima, Fadapharma del Ecuador S.A., Farmaceutica Mont Blanc S.L., Farmacologia Em Aquicultura Veterinaria Ltda., Farmacologia en Aquacultura Veterinaria FAV Ecuador S.A., Farmacologia en Aquacultura Veterinaria FAV S.A., Fernwood Investment S.A., First Check Diagnostics LLC, Focus Pharmaceutical S.A.S., Forensics Limited, Forestcreek Overseas S.A., Fournier Pharma Corp., Fournier Pharma GmbH, Fournier Pharmaceuticals Limited, Framed B.V., Gabmed GmbH, Garden Hills LLC, Global Analytical Development LLC, Globapharm & CO LP, Glomed Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Golnorth Investments S.A., Gynocare Limited, Gynopharm Sociedad Anonima, Gynopharm de Centroamerica S.A., Gynopharm de Venezuela C.A., Hi-Tronics Designs Inc., IDEV Technologies Inc., IG Innovations Limited, IMTC Finance B.V., IMTC Holdings B.V., IMTC Technologies Inc., Ibis Biosciences LLC, Igloo Zone Chile S.A., Igloo Zone S.L., Inmobiliaria Naknek S.A.C., Innovacon Inc., Instant Tech Subsidiary Acquisition Inc., Instant Technologies Inc., Instituto de Criopreservacion de Chile S.A., Integrated Vascular Systems Inc., Inverness Canadian Acquisition Corporation, Inverness Medical (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Inverness Medical Innovations Australia Pty Ltd., Inverness Medical Innovations Hong Kong Limited, Inverness Medical Innovations SK LLC, Inverness Medical Investments LLC, Inverness Medical LLC, Inverness Medical Shimla Private Limited, Inversiones K2 SpA, Inversiones Komodo S.R.L., Ionian Technologies LLC, Irvine Biomedical Inc., Kalila Medical, Kangshenyunga S.A., Knoll UK Investments Unlimited, LLC VeroInPharm, Laboratoires Fournier S.A.S., Laboratorio Franco Colombiano Lafrancol S.A.S., Laboratorio Franco Colombiano del Ecuador S.A., Laboratorio Internacional Argentino S.A., Laboratorio Synthesis S.A.S., Laboratorios Lafi Limitada, Laboratorios Naturmedik S.A.S., Laboratorios Pauly Pharmaceutical S.A.S., Laboratorios Recalcine S.A., Laboratorios Transpharm S.A., Laboratory Specialists of America Inc., Lafrancol Dominicana S.A.S., Lafrancol Guatemala S.A. Sociedad Anonima, Lafrancol Internacional S.A.S, Lafrancol Peru S.R.L, Lake Forest Investments LLC, Lightlab Imaging Inc., Limited Liability Company Abbott Laboratories, Limited Liability Company Abbott Ukraine, Limited Liability Company VEROPHARM, Lung Fung Hong (China) Limited, Mansbridge Pharmaceuticals Limited, MediGuide LLC, MediGuide Ltd., Medscreen Holdings Limited, Metropolitana Farmaceutica S.A., Midwest Properties LLC, Murex Argentina S.A., Murex Biotech Limited, Murex Biotech South Africa, Murex Diagnostics Inc., Murex Diagnostics International Inc., Natural Supplement Association LLC, Negocios Denia Sociedad Anonima, Neosalud S.A.C., Nether Pharma N.P. C.V., NeuroTherm LLC, Normann Pharma-Handels GmbH, North Shore Properties Inc., Novamedi S.A., Novasalud.com S.A., Nutravida S.A., OJSC Voronezhkhimpharm, Omnilab Iberia Sociedad Limitada, OptiMedica, Orgenics France SAS, Orgenics International Holdings B.V., Orgenics Ltd., PBM-Selfcare LLC, PDD II LLC, PDD LLC, PT Alere Health, PT. Abbott Indonesia, PT. Abbott Products Indonesia, Pacesetter Inc., Pantech (RF) (PTY) LTD, Pembrooke Occupational Health Inc., Penagos S.A., Pharma International Sociedad Anonima, Pharmaceutical Technologies (Pharmatech) S.A., Pharmatech Boliviana S.A., Polygon Labs S.A., Quality Assured Services Inc., RF Medical Holdings LLC, RTL Holdings Inc., Ramses Business Corp., Recben Xenerics Farmaceutica Limitada, Redwood Toxicology Laboratory Inc., Rich Horizons International Limited, SC VEROPHARM, SJ Medical Mexico S de R.L. de C.V., SJM International Inc., SJM Thunder Holding Company, SPDH Inc., Saboya Enterprises Corporation, Salviac Limited, Scanax AS, Sealing Solutions Inc., Selfcare Technology Inc., Shandong Abbott Dairy Product Co. Ltd., Shanghai Abbott Medical Devices Science and Technology Co. Ltd., Shanghai Abbott Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Shanghai Si Fa Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Sinensix & Co., Spinal Modulation LLC, St. Jude Medical, St. Jude Medical AB, St. Jude Medical ATG Inc., St. Jude Medical Argentina S.A., St. Jude Medical Asia Pacific Holdings GK, St. Jude Medical Atrial Fibrillation Division Inc., St. Jude Medical Brasil Ltda., St. Jude Medical Business Services Inc., St. Jude Medical Cardiology Division Inc., St. Jude Medical Colombia Ltda., St. Jude Medical Coordination Center, St. Jude Medical Costa Rica Limitada, St. Jude Medical Europe Inc., St. Jude Medical Export Ges.m.b.H., St. Jude Medical GVA Sarl, St. Jude Medical Holdings B.V., St. Jude Medical India Private Limited, St. Jude Medical International Holding, St. Jude Medical LLC, St. Jude Medical Luxembourg, St. Jude Medical Luxembourg Holdings II, St. Jude Medical Luxembourg Holdings NT, St. Jude Medical Luxembourg Holdings SMI S.a r.l., St. Jude Medical Luxembourg Holdings TC S.a r.l., St. Jude Medical Mexico Business Services S. de R.L. de C.V., St. Jude Medical Middle East DMCC, St. Jude Medical Operations (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., St. Jude Medical Puerto Rico LLC, St. Jude Medical S.C. Inc., St. Jude Medical Systems AB, St. Jude Medical Turkey Medikal Urunler Ticaret Limited Sirketi, Standard Diagnostics Inc., Standing Stone LLC, Swan-Myers Incorporated, TC1 LLC, Tendyne Holdings Inc., Tendyne Medical Inc., Thoratec Delaware LLC, Thoratec Europe Limited, Thoratec LLC, Thoratec Switzerland GmbH, Tobal Products Incorporated, Topera GmbH in Liquidation, Topera Inc., Tremora S.A., Tuenir S.A., TwistDx, UAB Abbott Laboratories, UAB Abbott Medical Lithuania, Union-Madison Realty Company Inc., Unipath Limited (dba Alere International/aka Cranfield), Unipath Management Limited, Unipath Pension Trustee Limited, Veropharm, Veropharm Limited Liability Partnership, Vida Cell Inversiones S.A., Vida Cell S.A., Vivalsol, W&R Pharma Handels GmbH, Western Pharmaceuticals S.A., X Technologies Inc., Yissum Holding Limited, ZonePerfect Nutrition Company, eScreen Canada ULC, eScreen Inc.,      ( ), and Abbott Laboratories Baltics.

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No Ukrainian soldiers were killed, three servicepersons were wounded in the ATO area in eastern Ukraine in last day.

Ukrainian Defense Ministry's Spokesperson for ATO Colonel Oleksandr Motuzianyk said this at a press briefing in Kyiv, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

"No Ukrainian soldiers were killed, three servicepersons were wounded as a result of military hostilities in Donbas in last day," Motuzianyk said.

ish
The Ukrainian-Arab Business Council (UABC) has suggested creating a bank with 100% investments from Arab businessmen in Ukraine, which is expected to ease the entry of many companies from the Middle East into the Ukrainian market.

The Ukrainian Business Resource (UBR) reports this citing UABC President Sheikh Imad Abu Al-Rub.

We would like to create an Arab bank in Ukraine, intended to ease the entry of many companies from the Middle East into the market. Representatives of the National Bank and the Cabinet of Ministers have welcomed our idea. Now we are forging relationships between Ukrainian and Arab business circles, Imad Abu Al-Rub said.

The bank's strategic task is to raise $100 billion worth of investments in Ukraine. According to Imad Abu Al-Rub, Arab companies are ready to make investments in Ukraine's agriculture and processing industry.

However, Ukraine should adopt the laws that protect foreign investments, combat corruption in the judicial branch and facilitate visa requirements for business representatives, Imad Abu Al-Rub noted.

UABC Vice President Oleh Bereziuk called on Arab businessmen to promptly report on any cases of corruption on the part of law enforcement agencies and local authorities. In addition, the UABC is ready to promote the inflow of foreign investments in Ukraine by assisting in the development of relevant legislative acts.

mk
The International and European Federations of Journalists (IFJ and EFJ), together with other human rights groups, call for the immediate release of Ukrainian journalists Mykola Semena and Roman Sushchenko illegally held in Russia.

This has been stated in a joint statement made by the organizations on Friday, Ukrinform reports.

"Ukrainian journalists Mykola Semena and Roman Sushchenko are facing jail following charges by the Russian authorities of separatism and espionage, respectively. The International and European Federations of Journalists (IFJ and EFJ), together with other human rights groups, are asking for these charges to be dropped immediately," reads a statement.

The IFJ and EFJ have joined calls from their Ukrainian affiliates, the Independent Media Trade Union of Ukraine (IMTUU) and the National Union of Journalists of Ukraine (NUJU), to condemn the persecution of independent media and journalists critical of the Russian authorities, especially in the Russia-annexed Crimea. Both Semena and Sushchenko are NUJU members.

ish
At 43, Brenda Barnes had a prized job as chief executive at Pepsi-Cola, one of the most recognizable beverage brands in the world and a company with annual sales of more than $7 billion. She had a supportive husband and three children, ages 10, 8 and 7, whom she was raising with the help of a much-loved live-in nanny. From the outside, she might have been seen to have it all  that ideal, perhaps idealized equilibrium of professional achievement and personal happiness.

But after 22 years of long hours in the office, punishing travel and unremitting responsibility, Ms. Barnes decided in 1997 that what shed had was enough. She wished to receive no special allowances from her company  no slack, she said. So after about a year at the helm of Pepsi-Cola North America, she announced that she was stepping down to spend more time with her family.

Thats the code for: Did she really get fired? she quipped to the New York Times. But this time, its really the reason.

As one of the highest-ranking women in American business, Ms. Barnes, who died Jan. 17 at 63 after a stroke, made a decision that thrust her to the center of national soul-searching over whether women can have it all.

According to the Wall Street Journal, Pepsi dispatched retired chairman Donald Kendall to try to persuade her to remain in her post at the companys Purchase, N.Y., headquarters. Ms. Barnes was more moved by an observation from one of her children  that she should keep working only if she could promise to be at home for all our birthdays.

Some women lamented, even lambasted Ms. Barness decision to squander a hard-fought professional opportunity at a time when many women were pushing to establish workplace equality in corporate culture. Other observers saw her experience as proof that women could not hope to balance work and home life. Ms. Barnes called that perspective misguided.

I hope people can look at my decision not as women cant do it but for 22 years, Brenda gave her all and did a lot of great things,  she told the Journal when she left Pepsi. I dont think theres any man who doesnt have the same struggle. Hopefully, one day corporate America can battle this.

After leaving Pepsi, Ms. Barnes moved her family from the New York area to the Chicago suburbs, where she grew up. She held numerous board appointments. But she treated child-rearing and homemaking as her primary responsibilities.

The whole issue boils down to time, she told NPR in 1997, explaining the pull she felt to her children at that period in their lives. I was faced with many times when I might not be at a school event, or I wouldnt be there at a special moment. . . . That casual time to interact with your family is what I was finding that I was missing too much.

In 2004, as her children approached college, Ms. Barnes went to work at Sara Lee, where she became chief executive the next year and where her compensation reached a reported $11.5 million.

The company was already suffering declining returns when Ms. Barnes signed on. She directed the sale of Sara Lees apparel line and some other brands so the company could focus principally on food products, but recovery proved challenging.

In 2010, while exercising at a gym, Ms. Barnes suffered a stroke that forced her to step down. By all accounts, she approached her rehabilitation with the same vigor she brought to the boardroom. I hate not being able to do it all, she told Fortune magazine in 2012.

Brenda Jo Czajka, a granddaughter of Polish immigrants and one of seven daughters, was born in Chicago on Nov. 11, 1953, and grew up in nearby River Grove, Ill. Her father was a pipe fitter, and her mother was a homemaker.

Ms. Barnes received a bachelors degree in economics from Augustana College in Rock Island, Ill., in 1975 and, three years later, a masters degree in business administration from Loyola University Chicago.

Early on at Pepsi, she did marketing work in the Frito-Lay snack-food division. Interviewed by NBC News, she remembered with frustration the comments she received after her children were born.

Boy, its so great now that you have children that youre going home earlier, she said colleagues remarked. I feel like saying, Have you been with me for the last 24 hours? Do you know what Ive been doing, where Ive been doing it? If I work at my kitchen table at 3 oclock in the morning, who cares? If I do it late at night, who cares? Thats flexibility. It doesnt mean you work less.

At Sara Lee, Ms. Barnes developed returnships for women seeking to come back to corporate work after taking time off to care for their children.

Her marriage to Randy Barnes ended in divorce. Survivors include her partner of eight years, Sal Barrutia of St. Charles, Ill.; five sisters; and three children from her marriage, Erin Barnes of Seattle, Jeff Barnes of San Francisco and Brian Barnes of Chicago.

Ms. Barnes died at a hospital in Naperville, Ill. Her daughter confirmed the death.

Im not leaving because they need more of me, Ms. Barnes told the Times about her children when she stopped working, but because I need more of them.
U.S. President Donald Trump signs executive orders in the Hall of Heroes at the Department of Defense in Arlington, Virginia, U.S. on Friday, Jan. 27, 2017. Trump signed an executive action on Friday to establish new vetting procedures for some people seeking to enter the U.S., saying the measure would prevent terrorists from being admitted into the country. (Olivier Douliery/Bloomberg)

A little-noticed provision in one of President Trumps executive orders this week stripped federal privacy protections from many immigrants, raising fears among advocacy groups that information people willingly submitted to the federal government during the Obama administration could now be used to help deport them.

Trumps move, in a wide-ranging order on immigration enforcement issued Wednesday, marks a break from a policy dating to the administration of George W. Bush that had extended some Privacy Act protections to immigrants who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents. That included students, foreign workers, asylum seekers and undocumented people such as those known as dreamers who were brought to the United States as children.

The motive for the change remains unclear, and Trump has repeatedly sought to assure dreamers that he will treat them humanely. But the order removing privacy protections set off alarms among privacy and immigration advocates, who worry the move is a step toward aggressive new tactics by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. In the past the agency, known as ICE, has bristled regarding federal privacy rules as applied to undocumented immigrants.

Rights advocates said they would be particularly troubled if data collected by the Obama administration with the goal of helping dreamers avoid deportation through the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program now could be used to target them and their families for this or other enforcement actions.

More than 700,000 people participate in DACA, giving them temporary protection from deportation. The application requires submission of extensive personal information, including addresses, phone numbers, travel histories and schools attended. A government website explaining the program says the information would be protected from ICE in most circumstances but notes that this policy could be changed at any time.

5 challenges Trump may face building a border wall These logistical issues will be crucial to any border wall construction, no matter who pays for it.



ICE might have gained access to this information even without Trumps order, but the removal of privacy protections clears away administrative hurdles, including the requirement that such access is formally documented.

The U.S. shouldnt do a bait-and-switch with sensitive personal data, said Sarah St. Vincent of Human Rights Watch. We have to be able to trust that the government will use and share that data only in the way it said it would.

Despite Trumps hard-edge rhetoric regarding immigrants, he has adopted a softer tone in the case of the dreamers. In an ABC News interview Wednesday, the president said: They are here illegally. They shouldnt be very worried. I do have a big heart. Were going to take care of everybody. Were going to have a very strong border. Were going to have a very solid border. Where you have great people that are here that have done a good job, they should be far less worried.

Administration officials familiar with Wednesdays executive order, and who spoke on the condition of anonymity to describe private deliberations, said the goal was not to target people who have applied for DACA. Rather, they said, the purpose was to allow ICE to release more information about its operations to the public and to Congress.

The Privacy Act restrictions repealed Wednesday, for example, had prevented ICE from publicly disclosing the names of undocumented immigrants who had committed crimes in the United States and were arrested in roundups by federal agents, said the officials.

The restrictions also prevented ICE from reporting to Congress the names of undocumented immigrants released from detention facilities. Federal immigration officials have chafed under the restrictions, pointing out that other federal law enforcement agencies frequently release the names of people arrested or indicted.

Despite Trumps campaign pledge to end DACA, it is unclear whether the administration will seek to dismantle the program. There was an internal administration debate on whether to roll out a provision ending DACA in Trumps executive orders issued this week. Ultimately that was not included in the orders, although it may be in future executive actions, said administration officials.

Trumps rhetoric already has immigration advocates on high alert. Neema Singh Guliani, a lawyer with the American Civil Liberties Union, warned that the removal of Privacy Act protections could have far-reaching consequences across the several federal agencies that deal with immigrants, and also could hinder their ability to gain access to their own federal files.

Alvaro Bedoya, executive director of Georgetown Laws Center on Privacy and Technology, said there is a troubling historical precedent to the federal government collecting data for one purpose and then using it for another. During World War II, Congress allowed the U.S. War Department access to sensitive census data, including names and addresses, as it rounded up Japanese Americans for relocation into camps.

If Donald Trump is using dreamers information against them for deportation, this would be the most brazen breach of trust since the Japanese internment, said Bedoya.


La Moneda was such a hit in England, Walmart decided to sell it in the United States. The first allotment sold out. (Goran Kosanovic/For The Washington Post)

The label for La Moneda Malbec Reserva 2015 from Chile looks like nothing special, until you notice the small decal on the side touting 95 points and a platinum medal from Decanter magazine. Even if you dont know that Decanter is Britains leading wine journal, 95 points is an impressive score for any wine, especially a cheap one. Last June, when it won best single-variety red costing under 15 pounds in Decanters annual World Wine Awards, consumer demand crashed the website of Asda supermarkets, La Monedas exclusive retail outlet. Demand spiked so high that Asdas parent company, Walmart, decided to sell the wine in the United States.

So last fall, Walmart introduced the La Moneda Malbec into 577 of its 4,600 or so U.S. stores, priced at $6.96 a bottle. Having tasted a sample, I can tell you it is really good, and it was still delicious and lively three or four days after opening, my unscientific way of assessing wine quality.

5 wines to try this week

Unfortunately, it is not available in Washington-area Walmart stores  or possibly in any Walmart. A company spokesman says the initial U.S. allotment sold through over the holidays. Furthermore, its unclear whether U.S. customers will ever be able to buy La Moneda. The supplier is already selling Walmart the 2016 vintage, but only for the U.K. market, and the spokesman would say only that the company is always looking for new opportunities to offer similar values for its American customers.

Nonetheless, the La Moneda story gives us a glimpse into how many good, inexpensive wines reach the shelves of chain stores such as Walmart, Costco, Total Wine & More and BevMo.

Its not the romantic tale of artisan vintners lovingly coddling their expensive oak barrels to produce a few hundred cases of mind-blowing vino. Most wine is an industrial agricultural product, made at large wineries sometimes derisively called tank farms for the huge stainless-steel tanks that hold thousands of gallons waiting to be bottled on demand. Economy of scale helps make wine inexpensive enough to be our daily tipple. Exclusive private-label wines are one way retailers vie for a competitive edge.

The La Moneda malbec is one of 60 such distinctive labels Walmart sells, including $3 table wines and more premium proseccos and other bubblies, according to Kurt Carlson, a wine buyer with Walmarts adult beverage team. Walmart leverages its corporate buying power to partner with large wineries around the world and with importers and distributors here in the United States. Exclusivity is not so much a legal arrangement as a fact of life.

Any retailer can ask a distributor for some La Moneda, Carlson told me in a telephone interview from Walmart headquarters in Arkansas. But the truth is, weve already bought it all. He declined to say exactly how much of the malbec Walmart has acquired.

The label says La Moneda is produced by Ranco Wines, bottled by Vina Luis Felipe Edwards Nancagua in Chile, and imported by Prestige Wine & Spirits Group in Princeton, Minn. Rancos general manager, Raimundo Valenzuela, told me in an email exchange that the wine was made by RR Bulk Wine, Rancos main company, founded in 1993. Valenzuela described RR as Chiles largest wine exporter, with about 2,500 acres of vineyards, shipping more than 80 million liters a year to more than 25 countries. Thats a whopping 107 million bottles, or nearly 9 million cases. Ranco sells mainly to European supermarket chains and large U.S. companies with numerous brands, such as the Wine Group, Constellation, and E&J Gallo, he said.

The wine that wowed Decanters tasters was shipped in bulk to Britain and bottled there, which helps reduce costs, Valenzuela said. For the U.S. market, Ranco enlisted Vina Luis Felipe Edwards to bottle the wine in Chile. And the importer? According to the certificate of label approval filed with the U.S. Treasury Departments Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, Prestige Wine & Spirits Group is United States Distilled Products, one of the nations largest producers of private-label liquors.

So heres the story of La Moneda (and similar private-label wines): Ranco produces a lot of wine inexpensively. Carlson and other buyers from Walmart taste the malbec. Recognizing its quality, they use Walmarts market power to buy all of it at a good price. They could call it anything  Chateau This or Domaine That, even though there is no such idyllic property associated with the wine. (La Moneda is Spanish for the coin, appropriately enough. It is also the name of the Chilean presidential palace, shown on the label.) They bring it into the United States through their importer to various distributors, who speed the product through the three-tier distribution network at minimal cost. Because the wine is going exclusively to one stores various outlets, theres no marketing cost to build the brand and fight for shelf space. (Though someone at Walmart was smart enough to enter the malbec into the Decanter competition and then market its triumph for all it was worth.)

Once in the store, the wine receives prime placement on the shelf  at eye level, or a coveted end-of-aisle display  alongside California chardonnays and merlots that also dont have the store name on the label but are available nowhere else. National brands are often relegated to less-visible, harder-to-reach shelves. That preference for the store-owned product sometimes leads distributors to chafe about an unfair disadvantage for their own brands.

For consumers, of course, what matters is the wine, not the label. And we dont want to have to rummage around looking for the La Moneda Malbec.
Fame has finally found Katherine Johnson  and it only took a half-century, six manned moon landings, a best-selling book and an Oscar-nominated movie.

For more than 30 years, Johnson worked as a NASA mathematician at Langley Research Center in Hampton, Va., where she played an unseen but pivotal role in the countrys space missions. That she was an African American woman in an almost all-male and white workforce made her career even more remarkable.

Now, three decades after retiring from the agency, Johnson is portrayed by actress Taraji P. Henson in Hidden Figures, a film based on a book of the same name. The movie tells how a group of black women  world-class mathematicians all  helped provide NASA with data crucial to the success of the agencys early spaceflights. Hidden Figures was nominated Tuesday for an Academy Award for best picture.

Suddenly Johnson, who will turn 99 in August, finds herself inundated with interview requests, award banquet invitations and people who just want to stop by and shake her hand.

Im glad that Im young enough still to be living and that they are, so they can look and see, Thats who that is,  she said. And they are as excited as I am.

Taraji P. Henson plays Katherine Johnson in the Oscar-nominated movie "Hidden Figures." (Hopper Stone/AP)

For many people, especially African Americans, her tale of overcoming racism and sexism is inspirational.

[Hidden Figures is terrific. Hollywood could learn a lot from it.]

But Johnson is still struggling to figure out what all the fuss is about. Theres nothing to it  I was just doing my job, she said during an interview in her living room in Hampton Roads, Va. They needed information and I had it, and it didnt matter that I found it. At the time, it was just a question and an answer.

Henson spent hours with Johnson before the filming got underway, according to her publicist, Pamela Sharp, who said the actress described the experience as meeting a true hero.

Johnson speaks these days with a slight rasp in her voice but carries the same confidence that prompted NASA engineers to turn to her for help in planning the Mercury and Apollo space missions by, among other things, calculating the distance between Earth and the moon.

Her daughters, Joylette Goble Hylick and Katherine Goble Moore, said shes seen Hidden Figures three times. And while Johnson doesnt remember seeing every single shot or scene in the film, her memories of her work are sharp.

Clad in a pink turtleneck and a snow white shawl, with her silver hair styled gently atop her head, Johnson recalled how John Glenn, the astronaut and longtime senator who died last month, insisted on her calculations for Friendship 7, the first mission to orbit Earth.

Artifacts from Katherine Johnsons long career with NASA that belong to her daughter. (Joseph Rodriguez/AP)

Get that girl, she remembered Glenn saying.

How, she was asked, did she know Glenn was referring to her?

Johnson shrugged and said, He knew I had done [the calculations] before for him, and they trusted my work, she said. He asked me to do it, and I did it.

At the end of the day, color didnt matter at NASA, she said. You were only as good as your last answer.

They never asked me to go back over [my calculations] because when I did it, I had done my best, and it was right, she said.

[The nearly forgotten story of the black women who helped land a man on the moon]

Johnson said she was one of the first women to attend an editorial meeting at the agency. Usually only the men wrote papers, and they would all gather in a room to discuss the findings.

She said she wanted to know what they talk about. So she asked. And when someone noted that women didnt attend those meetings, she followed up with: Is there a law that says I cant go?

And her boss said,  Let her go,  Johnson said. No big thing. I hadnt given it any thought. And the first time I went into one, a fellow asked a question and he said: Katherine is here, ask her. She did it. 

High school at 10

Johnson was born in White Sulphur Springs, W.Va., when Woodrow Wilson occupied the White House and rotary dial telephones were still brand-new. Some of Johnsons earliest memories involved counting games  counting stair steps, dishes, anything. She was so eager to learn to read that she followed her older brother, Horace Coleman, to elementary school before she was old enough to attend.

She started second grade at the age of 4. When she was 10, her family moved to Institute, W.Va.  120 miles away  so she could attend high school because there wasnt one for black children in White Sulphur Springs. Johnson graduated from what is now West Virginia State University at 18.

After college, she began to work as a teacher. She married James Goble two years later. (He died in 1956; she married her current husband, James Johnson, three years after that.)

In the early 1950s, she learned that the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics, the precursor to NASA, was looking for mathematicians to work at Langley Research Center. By 1953, Johnson was working there as a computer  the title that the agency gave to those who worked on calculations.

By the time she retired in 1986, Johnson had worked on Glenns flight, the moon landings and the 1970 rescue of Apollo 13. She also helped write one of the first textbooks on space.

The Johnsons home is filled with pictures: Snapshots of their six grandchildren, as well as an Annie Leibovitz portrait of Johnson, in which she posed with her hands on her hips and her lips painted her favorite shade of pink. She talked about her life after finishing a meal of bacon, hard-boiled eggs and a cup of coffee so strong she had to dilute it twice with water.

Johnson was modest and matter-of-fact about her achievements until the subject turned to the Presidential Medal of Freedom she was awarded in 2015 by then-President Barack Obama.

That was a thrill, she said of receiving the nations highest civilian honor.

The respect apparently goes both ways  in his final State of the Union address last year, Obama mentioned Johnson in the same breath as Thomas Edison, the Wright brothers and George Washington Carver.

But Hollywood is a different kind of public recognition.

[A movie about three black female mathematicians is beating Affleck and Scorsese at the box office]

Hylick, Johnsons eldest daughter, has seen the movie nine times. Each time, she says, she learns a little bit more, and appreciates it a little bit more.

Its wonderful  despite her humility, everyone is finding out what she did, said her daughter, who had just learned that the local library where Johnson grew up will be named in her honor.

Superhuman

Growing up in Hampton, Margot Lee Shetterly heard stories about Johnson and the other black women at NASA from her father, who also worked there. Shetterly decided to write Hidden Figures six years ago. The book was released in September, and Shetterly was a consultant on the film.

She said the reason Johnson and her co-workers stories were hidden was complex. Some of it was rooted in racism (the African American women were relegated to a separate office), some of it was sexism (calculations were considered womens work), and some of it was simply that Johnson and her co-workers were wives and mothers as well as mathematicians.

[Hidden Figures explores NASAs untold history with nerve and vivacity]

Johnson, she said, has given us a way to shine a light on a lot of women who have not been talked about. None of these women really got the recognition they deserved and . . . now an entire group of women are being recognized for the work that they did.

Kimberly M. Holmes, who works at George Mason University and wrote her dissertation on the experiences of black women who pursue science careers, said the movie will have an impact on the aspirations of African American children and on people who harbor stereotypes about black achievement.

Albert Einstein isnt the only scientist, and were beginning to see that more, Holmes said.

Johnsons grandson, Troy Hylick, believes theres only one word to describe the women in the film and book: Superhuman.

Because of all of the roadblocks that were put in their place, and they had to get over and get around and get under, he said. They became superhuman because all of those things that they had to do, just to do the job they were in there to do.

Hylick, who, like his grandmother, once taught math, wonders how many other stories like this remain untold. Twenty more? Fifty more? A thousand more?

Whatever that truth is, he said, were better off when we hear the truth. All of it.
THE DISTRICT

Police: Man abducted on Georgetown street

A man was abducted from a street in Georgetown on Thursday afternoon, forced into a vehicle, and driven to two stores and several bank machines in attempts to get money or merchandise, D.C. police said.

The transactions were all denied and the abductor eventually drove off, leaving the victim, police said. The victim told police that he was driven around the District and into Maryland. Georgetown University identified the victim as a student in a campus safety alert Friday.

Police said the incident began about 3:20 p.m. when a man in a silver or gray SUV pulled up to the victim in the 3400 block of O Street NW.

The student told police he hesitated when the man asked for money, then was grabbed by the arm and pulled into the vehicle. Police declined to say where the student was released.

Authorities said they are checking surveillance videos to map out the route.

Police said they are looking for a white man in his late 30s to 40s, 5 feet 9 inches to 6 feet tall with a medium build, dark hair, dark mustache and a beard. He was wearing a black suit, black shirt, gray necktie and black shoes. Police said no weapon was used in the incident.

 Peter Hermann

VIRGINIA

Teacher charged with indecent exposure

An Arlington high school teacher was charged after allegedly exposing himself to two teens in the locker room of a health club Thursday, Fairfax County police said.

Thomas Lenihan, 38, a teacher at Arlingtons Yorktown High School, was arrested after two youths, ages 16 and 17, reported him to staff members at Tysons Sport & Health Club in McLean, police said.

The teenagers told police Lenihan had watched them in the shower and followed them in the locker room. Police were called to the club about 9:30 p.m. Thursday.

Lenihan was charged with two misdemeanor counts of indecent exposure. Arlington County schools officials did not immediately answer an inquiry about his employment status with the district.

 Justin Jouvenal

Suspected serial burglar arrested

Nicholas Cormier, 19, of Alexandria, was arrested and charged this week with five counts of grand larceny and seven counts of burglary, said police, who credited neighbors assistance, online posts and a homeowners surveillance video in helping them on the case.

Police said a burglar broke into several homes from Jan. 10 through Jan. 15 in the Glenwood Mews and Hayfield View neighborhoods.

Cormier was initially charged Jan. 15 and then he faced more charges on Thursday.

 Dana Hedgpeth
Tricia Lynn McCauley, 46, of the District, was found slain in her car Dec. 27, 2016. (Courtesy of D.C. Metropolitan Police Department)

An attorney for the man charged in the beating death of a D.C. actress and yoga instructor argued Friday that his client did not commit the brutal killing and that detectives sought to coerce the suspect, who the lawyer said is mentally ill.

Duane Adrian Johnson, 29, is charged with murder in the killing of Tricia Lynn McCauley, who went missing on Christmas Day and was later found dead in the back seat of her white Scion. She had been beaten and strangled, and her legs had been bound with a seat belt, police said.

Police said Johnson, who did not know McCauley, had been spotted driving the car and that he had the keys to the vehicle on him when he was detained.

[Man charged with murder in slaying of popular D.C. actress]

After Johnson was arrested, according to charging documents, he told police that McCauley had offered him a ride. He said he and McCauley had sex and that afterward, she committed suicide by hanging herself with a seat belt. He then told detectives that he drove around the city with McCauleys body in the back seat and that he thought she was sleeping and would wake up.

During a hearing in D.C. Superior Court, public defender Mani Golzari argued that Johnsons comments were evidence of mental illness.

These are the ramblings of a mentally ill man. They are trying to connect these ramblings to a murder, Golzari said. With someone with a mental-health issue and no high school diploma, a lot of things can go wrong in an interrogation. Golzari later called the police questioning of his client a coercive environment.

Johnson told detectives that he had not slept for three days and had often gone weeks without sleeping, Golzari said. The lawyer said a video showed that before he was questioned, Johnson sat in a chair in the interrogation room for four hours. At one point, he stretched out on the floor under a desk.

Golzari argued that evidence cited by authorities so far did not directly link Johnson to the killing, and he said McCauleys death could have occurred prior to Mr. Johnson being connected to the car.

Assistant U.S. Attorney David Misler did not address Golzaris allegations that his client was treated improperly. The prosecutor successfully argued that Johnson should remain in jail pending trial.

During the hearing, Golzari also provided new details about a man who had once been accused of sexual assault and called police to tell them that, at one point, he had been in the vehicle with Johnson and McCauleys body but thought McCauley was unconscious, not dead.

Judge Hiram Puig-Lugo dismissed the information about the witness, saying that the mans arrest had occurred 19 years earlier and that he had not been convicted in that case.

Johnson, wearing an orange D.C. jail jumpsuit, sat through most of the nearly two-hour hearing with his head down, occasionally looking up. Authorities previously identified him as Adrian Duane Johnson, but current court records list him as Duane Adrian Johnson.

McCauley, 46, was a popular actress in the local Washington theater scene. Her friends reported her missing after she failed to show up to dinner on Christmas evening.

Prosecutors did not disclose whether any DNA evidence was found, but authorities said Johnsons fingerprints were found in McCauleys vehicle along with the fingerprints of another unknown man.

Puig-Lugo found that there was enough evidence to order that Johnson remain in jail until trial. The judge also cited Johnsons voluminous previous criminal cases, including 12 prior convictions. The judge also said Johnson had two pending misdemeanor theft cases at the time of his arrest in McCauleys death and was on probation in two other cases.

Johnsons attorney argued that most of his clients previous cases were misdemeanor charges.

We look forward to going to trial and to demonstrate that Mr. Johnson did not commit this offense, Golzari said.

Johnsons next hearing was scheduled for April 10.
A McLean man killed his wife and son Friday before shooting himself, police in Fairfax County said Saturday.

Hong Chen, 52, Shirley Zhou, 48, and James Wenjie Chen, 16, were found dead in their home early Friday afternoon. A family member had called police after looking in a window of the Windy Hill Road home and seeing a dead body. When police arrived and searched the home, they found the other two family members dead inside.

The family also has a daughter, who neighbors said is away at college.

Siddarth Ambardars son was a classmate of James Chen; they were on Langley High Schools victorious Virginia Science Olympiad team together last year. Chen was particularly interested in building model helicopters and planes.

He was a very bright young man, Ambardar said of the teenager. We are shocked and horrified ... Its just flabbergasting.
A federal judge in New York blocked deportations nationwide late Saturday of those detained on entry to the United States after an executive order from President Trump targeted citizens from seven predominantly Muslim countries.

Judge Ann Donnelly of the U.S. District Court in Brooklyn granted a request from the American Civil Liberties Union to stop the deportations after determining that the risk of injury to those detained by being returned to their home countries necessitated the decision.

Minutes after the judges ruling in New York, another came in Alexandria when U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema issued a temporary restraining order to block for seven days the removal of any green-card holders being detained at Dulles International Airport. Brinkemas action also ordered that lawyers have access to those held there because of the ban.

Several hours after the judicial rulings, the Department of Homeland Security said it would continue to implement Trumps executive order. In a statement released early Sunday, the agency said less than one percent of international air travelers arriving Saturday in the U.S. were inconvenienced by the executive order.

President Trumps Executive Orders remain in place  prohibited travel will remain prohibited, and the U.S. government retains its right to revoke visas at any time if required for national security or public safety, the statement said. No foreign national in a foreign land, without ties to the United States, has any unfettered right to demand entry into the United States or to demand immigration benefits in the United States.





While the statement said the administration will comply with judicial orders, the fate of travelers detained at U.S. airports was not immediately clear.

Trumps order reverberated across the world Saturday, making it increasingly clear that the measure he had promised during his presidential campaign was casting a wider net than even his opponents had feared.

Confusion and concern among immigrant advocates mounted throughout the day as travelers from the Middle East were detained at U.S. airports or sent home. A lawsuit filed on behalf of two Iraqi men challenged Trumps executive action, which was signed Friday and initially cast as applying to refugees and migrants.

But as the day progressed, administration officials confirmed that the sweeping order also targeted U.S. legal residents from the named countries  green-card holders  who were abroad when it was signed. Also subject to being barred entry into the United States are dual nationals, or people born in one of the seven countries who hold passports even from U.S. allies, such as the United Kingdom.

[Are you, or someone you know, affected by President Trumps travel restrictions? Tell The Post.]

The virtually unprecedented measures triggered harsh reactions from not only Democrats and others who typically advocate for immigrants but also key sectors of the U.S. business community. Leading technology companies recalled scores of overseas employees and sharply criticized the president. Legal experts forecast a wave of litigation over the order, calling it unconstitutional. Lawyers and advocates for immigrants are advising them to seek asylum in Canada.

Yet Trump, who centered his campaign in part on his vow to crack down on illegal immigrants and impose what became known as his Muslim ban, was unbowed. As White House officials insisted that the measure strengthens national security, the president stood squarely behind it.

1 of 23 Full Screen Autoplay Close Skip Ad  Photos from the scene of protest at New Yorks JFK airport against Trumps executive order halting refugee admissions View Photos Entry to the United States is being refused to legal residents, including green-card holders, from seven mostly Muslim countries who were abroad when the executive order was signed Friday by the president, and some travelers were detained at U.S. airports. Caption Entry to the United States is being refused to legal residents, including green-card holders, from seven mostly Muslim countries who were abroad when the executive order was signed Friday by the president. Jan. 28, 2017 People protest the Muslim immigration ban at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York. President Trump signed an executive order that halted refugees and residents from certain predominantly Muslim countries from entering the United States. Stephanie Keith/Getty Images Wait 1 second to continue.

Its not a Muslim ban, but we were totally prepared, Trump told reporters in the Oval Office. You see it at the airports, you see it all over. Its working out very nicely, and were going to have a very, very strict ban, and were going to have extreme vetting, which we should have had in this country for many years.

In New York, Donnelly seemed to have little patience for the governments arguments, which focused heavily on the fact that the two defendants named in the lawsuit had already been released.

Donnelly noted that those detained were suffering mostly from the bad fortune of traveling while the ban went into effect. Our own government presumably approved their entry to the country, she said at one point, noting that, had it been two days prior, those detained would have been granted admission without question.

During the hearing, ACLU attorney Lee Gelernt informed the court that he had received word of a deportation to Syria, scheduled within the hour. That prompted Donnelly to ask if the government could assure that the person would not suffer irreparable harm. Receiving no such assurance, she granted the stay to the broad group included in the ACLUs request.

A senior Department of Homeland Security official had no comment about the rulings late Saturday and said the department was consulting with its lawyers.

The official said enforcement of the presidents order on Saturday had created minimal disruption, given that only a small number of the several hundred thousand travelers arriving at U.S. airports daily had been affected.

Nationwide, he said, 109 people had been denied entry into the United States. All had been in transit when Trump signed the order, and some had already departed the United States on flights by late Saturday while others were still being detained awaiting flights. Also, 173 people had not been allowed to board U.S.-bound planes at foreign airports.

The official said that officers doing case-by-case reviews had granted 81 waivers so far to green-card holders.

DHS began implementing the presidents order immediately after he signed it, according to the official. He declined to say whether the department had an operational plan ready at that time.

In New York, when news of the decision to block the deportations reached the crowd outside the courthouse, a roar of approval went up. For some time after, hundreds of people chanted and danced along with a drum circle. Get up! Get down! New York is an immigrant town, the crowd said. The diverse group of mostly young people continued to grow despite the cold weather. No hate! No bigotry! No Muslim registry.

Jonah Baum, 11, was at the protest with his mother, Terri Gerstein, 48. Asked why he thought it was important to come, Baum said, It's so bad what he's been doing to this country. I felt like I needed to do something about it. Baum's grandfather was a Jewish refugee from Germany.

Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton tweeted late Saturday, I stand with the people gathered across the country tonight defending our values & our Constitution. This is not who we are.

Though several congressional Republicans denounced the order, the majority remained silent, and a few voiced crucial support  including, most prominently, House Speaker Paul D. Ryan (R-Wis.), who had rejected Trumps anti-Muslim proposals during the campaign. This is not a religious test, and it is not a ban on people of any religion, Ryan said Saturday. This order does not affect the vast majority of Muslims in the world.

The presidents order, signed Friday, suspends admission to the United States of all refugees for 120 days and bars for 90 days the entry of any citizen from Iraq, Iran, Syria, Yemen, Sudan, Libya and Somalia. That list excludes several majority-Muslim nations  notably Turkey, the United Arab Emirates and Indonesia  where the Trump Organization, now run by the presidents adult sons, is active and which in some cases have also faced troublesome issues with terrorism.

According to the text of the order, the restriction applies to countries that have already been excluded from programs allowing people to travel to the United States without a visa because of terrorism concerns. Hewing closely to nations already named as terrorism concerns elsewhere in law might have allowed the White House to avoid angering powerful and wealthy majority-Muslim allies, such as Egypt and Saudi Arabia.

Amid widespread confusion on Saturday about how the order will be enforced, some administration officials acknowledged that its rollout had been chaotic. Officials tried to reassure travelers and their families, pointing out that green-card holders in the United States will not be affected and noting that the DHS is allowed to grant waivers to those individuals and others deemed to not pose a security threat. It can take years for someone to become a green-card holder, or lawful permanent resident authorized to permanently live and work in the country.

If youve been living in the United States for 15 years and you own a business and your family is here, will you be granted a waiver? Im assuming yes, but we are working that out, said one official, who could not be more specific because details remained so cloudy. A senior White House official later said that waivers will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and that green-card holders in the United States will have to meet with a consular officer before leaving the country.

But officials made clear that the federal officers detaining refugees and migrants with valid U.S. visas and restricting them from entering the country were following orders handed down by top DHS officials, at the White Houses behest.

The order drew outrage from a range of activist and advocates for Muslims, Arabs and immigrants. More than 4,000 academics from universities nationwide signed a statement of opposition and voiced concern the ban would become permanent. They described it as discriminatory and inhumane, ineffective and un-American.

The executive action has caused complete chaos and torn apart families, said Abed Ayoub, legal and policy director of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee.

At Dulles, Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe (D) addressed more than 100 people protesting Trumps order. He said: I remind everybody we are a land of immigrants  Discriminatory tactics breed hatred.

In New York, lawyers for two Iraqi men detained at John F. Kennedy International Airport  one of whom served the U.S. military mission in Iraq  filed a federal lawsuit challenging the order as unconstitutional.

[Read the complaint]

One of the men, Hameed Khalid Darweesh, was released Saturday afternoon without explanation from federal officials. This is the humanity, this is the soul of America, he told reporters. This is what pushed me to move, to leave my country and come here  America is the land of freedom  the land of freedom, the land of the right.

Other advocates promised further legal challenges. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) denounced the order and said it would file a lawsuit challenging it as unconstitutional.

In a conference call with reporters, immigration lawyers and advocates said Trumps order violated the Constitution, along with U.S. and international laws that guarantee migrants the right to apply for asylum at the border and the Immigration and Nationality Act, which forbids discrimination in the issuance of visas based on race, nationality, place of birth or place of residence.

But Mark Krikorian, executive director of the Center for Immigration Studies, which advocates for lower immigration levels, praised Trump.

Its a prudent measure, he said. Its not the end of the world. Its not the Statue of Liberty crying. The reaction has been hyperbolic.

At Dulles, at 10:30 p.m., cheers erupted as a couple emerged from the gray doors blocking the Customs and Border Protection screening area. Go see the lawyers! about 150 protesters chanted, directing them toward a throng of volunteer lawyers.

The young woman was teary as she pushed a full luggage cart toward the terminal exit. Another woman, who also was crying, ran up to her. I'm looking for my parents! They are elderly!

As his wife headed out, Javad Fotouha said he is Iranian but has a green card. He said he and his wife had been detained for four hours after landing at Dulles around 6:30 p.m.

We saw elderly people and disabled people being detained, Fotouha said.

He said he and his wife had read on their phones during their layover in Istanbul that Trump had signed the executive order about five hours earlier. Yes, I was scared, Fotouha said.

At 11:35 p.m., about 80 protesters and lawyers started chanting Contempt of court! and Let them in! as lawyers said officials were ignoring the federal judge's order requiring that they have access to people being detained.

Fatemeh Ebrahimi, an Iranian who now lives in Montgomery County, was released at Dulles just before midnight, following a nearly six-hour wait with her two children after their plane landed. She said they traveled to Iran 10 days ago to celebrate her daughters and her birthdays with friends and family.

Ebrahimi said she has a green card, and her children, ages 21 and 7, are U.S. citizens. Her son emerged in a wheelchair with his sister on his lap, saying authorities had given them soup to eat while they waited.

My kids are so tired right now, a weary looking Ebrahimi said as she made her way through a thicket of lawyers and reporters toward the terminal doors. They just kept us waiting.

Shortly after midnight, Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) emerged from a Dulles airport hallway being guarded by police officers near the customs screening area. Speaking to a crowd of more than 100 protesters, Booker said federal officials had told him that the remaining detainees would be released momentarily.

Volunteer lawyers said one person remained to be released as of 12:30 a.m. The lawyers said others who had been released had told them two additional men had been handcuffed after they refused to give authorities their green cards, and their status was unknown. Lawyers said they still had not been permitted to speak with those being detained  what they called a violation of the federal judges court order.

Booker told protesters he agreed with the attorneys and predicted a long, arduous and tough fight over the executive order. This is not a one-night thing and its not a one-day thing, he said.

After most protesters and lawyers had gone home for the night, Binto Adan and her two young children, an 8-year-old boy and 9-year-old girl, emerged at 1:20 am Sunday from the customs screening area. Adan ducked under the ropes lining the walkway and hugged two relatives who were waiting for them.

Adans daughter had tears in her eyes as her mother led the children toward the terminal exit. Adan did not speak to reporters, but one of her relatives said the family endured a 17-hour ordeal.

A nephew of Adans, Najib Abi, said his aunt and her children arrived at Dulles at 8 a.m. Saturday from Kenya. They were supposed to transfer to another flight to live in Minnesota, where her husband was waiting for them. The family is Somali, but the children and their father are U.S. citizens, Abi said. Adan has an I-130 visa for relatives of U.S. citizens, he said.

Abi said immigration officials called his uncle on Saturday, saying his wife and children were detained. Abi said his uncle was told that someone would need to retrieve the children by 9:30 a.m. Sunday or they would be sent back to Kenya with their mother.

Abi said he and other relatives arrived at Dulles from Minnesota late Saturday night. He said Adan didn't have a cell phone. We werent allowed to talk to them, Abi said.

Then, without any explanation, Adan and her children were released.

As of 2 a.m., one Syrian woman was still detained at Dulles, said Mirriam Seddiq, a volunteer lawyer. Attorneys were told the woman would be held overnight and would have an initial asylum hearing Sunday morning, Seddiq said.

The woman arrived at Dulles at 7 p.m. Saturday with a non-immigrant J2 visa, Seddiq said. Her husband is in the United States on a J1 visa for professional training, Seddiq said.

Several lawyers would spend the night at Dulles, Seddiq said, with more returning Sunday morning to try to get access to any international passengers detained. Immigration officials did not allow lawyers to visit with detainees Saturday, despite a federal judges order that they be allowed to do so.

A Customs and Border Protection official at Dulles told lawyers that they were awaiting directions from the Department of Homeland Security's counsel office, Seddiq said.

Philip Bump in Brooklyn, Louisa Loveluck in Beirut, and David Nakamura, Philip Rucker, Mike DeBonis, Lori Aratani, Carol Morello and Rachel Weiner in Washington contributed to this report.
Catherine Davis, 64, of Stone Mountain, Ga., participated in Fridays March for Life. Davis is a longtime anti-abortion activist who is excited that the new administration and GOP Congress are committed to opposing abortion. (Vanessa Williams/The Washington Post)

Donald Trumps harsh comments about women, Hispanics and Muslims was not the reason that Catherine Davis declined to support him for president.

It was her uncertainty about exactly where the Republican businessman stood on the issue that Davis, a 64-year-old African American, says is the most important one facing the black community: abortion.

If we dont have life, then all the other issues pale, Davis said. Education doesnt matter, criminal justice reform doesnt matter, if you cannot make it out of the womb.

Davis was energized this week as she joined thousands of antiabortion activists in Washington for the annual March for Life, where Vice President Pence and presidential counselor Kellyanne Conway affirmed the Trump administrations commitment to an antiabortion agenda.

Black women have the highest rate of abortion than any other group, a statistic that Davis and other black antiabortion activists say is the result of a deliberate targeting of the black community. Those who support reproductive rights point to a lack of access to preventive health care among poor black women. They say they also are concerned about the high rate but argue that legal abortion should remain an option for all women.

Glorya Jordan, 37, of Woodbridge, Va., attended the March for Life said African Americans need to be concerned about the high rate of abortion among black women. (Vanessa Williams/The Washington Post)

The crowd at the march was overwhelmingly white, as are the political leaders, organizations and grass-roots activists associated with the antiabortion movement. But Davis, working alone and with others, have long encouraged African Americans to be more vocal and visible in the fight against abortion.

For the first time in a long while, Davis is optimistic that her side will have the upper hand in the debate, especially on her specific goal of defunding Planned Parenthood.

The new White House, along with the Republican Congress, are communicating clearly a pro-life agenda, and that excites me because it at least gives me an opportunity to be at the table to persuade them to take some steps to stop Planned Parenthood from targeting black women, Davis said as she made her way along Constitution Avenue on Friday en route to the pre-march rally on the grounds of the Washington Monument.

Several years ago, Davis and other activists drew fire for a billboard campaign in some major cities that featured the faces of African American children, with messages such as Black children are an endangered species and The most dangerous place for an African American is in the womb. They also have criticized Black Lives Matter activists, who have focused on the slayings of African Americans by police, as being hypocrites for not speaking against abortion.

According the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions abortion surveillance report for 2013, in 29 states that have reported abortion data, black women had the highest abortion rate at 27 abortions per 1,000 woman, compared with 7.2 procedures per 1,000 white women and 13.8 abortions per 1,000 Hispanic women.

Michelle S. Batchelor, deputy director of In Our Own Voice, a reproductive rights organization, said the billboard campaign was hurtful.

We understand that some people do not agree with abortion and what we try to emphasize is thats fine, but dont interfere with our choice, said Batchelor. We trust black women to make the choices that are best for their bodies, best for their families and best for their long-term future, she said.

A Pew report on abortion published earlier this month showed that 57 percent of the public believes that abortion should be legal in all or most cases, including 58 percent of whites and 62 percent of blacks.

Rep. Gwen Moore (D-Wis.) has criticized antiabortion activists and her Republican counterparts for being overly concerned about the lives unborn children while cutting funding for programs to help struggling women and their families, including Planned Parenthood.

Their strategy is as transparent as it is offensive: exploiting the high rate of abortion among black women as evidence that minority communities are targeted for abortion, Moore said. Not only must we speak truth to such deceptive claims, but it is also imperative that we openly discuss the underlying context behind those numbers and recognize the barriers black women encounter in accessing quality prevention services and reproductive care.

Glorya Jordan, a mother of four from Woodbridge, Va., said not enough is being done to give black women options to abortion. She brought a sign to the march that read Black Lives Matter, born and pre-born.

Its important for the African American community to realize that were doing this to ourselves, Jordan said, noting that in New York City the number of abortions exceeded the number of births among black women. In 2014, the most recent figures available, the citys health department reported 23,680 births and 27,367 induced terminations among black women.

The stay-at-home mom said she voted for a third-party candidate, shunning both Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton and Trump. Some of the comments he has made about women  and really about every other group  were inappropriate to say the least, Jordan said. However I do want him to stand for life. I do want him to stand for both the born and the pre-born. Im hoping he will do that.

Davis said she has had two abortions, the first when was in college. I knew if I had told my mother I was pregnant, she would have raised the baby and sent me on back to college. I didnt want the responsibility, she said. Now a grandmother of three, Davis, who lives in Stone Mountain, Ga., said she became an antiabortion warrior in 1987, after listening to men of God teaching about abortion. That was the day I had to face what I had done.

Davis said she and other black female antiabortion activists such as Day Gardner, founder of the National Black Pro-Life Union, and Alveda King, a niece of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., have been criticized because they have framed abortion as an issue of racial discrimination.

Many of us have been ridiculed and belittled and put down. They say that we were trying to make an issue racial that wasnt racial, they say weve sold out to the white agenda, Davis said. She said she could use more black female allies in her cause.

One of the most well-received speakers at Fridays march was Rep. Mia Love (Utah), who in 2014 became the first African American Republican woman elected to Congress. Love wiped away tears as she said she was glad that her parents did not choose abortion when they were struggling immigrants who had left two children in Haiti and learned a third was on the way when they arrived in the United States 41 years ago.

Love told the crowd that she was moved by a photo of a black teenage girl at last weekends Womens March on Washington. She was holding a sign that said, I survived Roe v. Wade. That young woman beat the odds and was born into a world too far often that favors the abortion of a black girl instead of the life of a black girl.

Emily Guskin contributed to this report.
RUSSIA

Chamber votes to ease domestic violence law

The lower house of the Russian parliament has given final approval to a bill decriminalizing some forms of domestic violence.

The State Duma voted 380 to 3 on Friday to eliminate criminal liability for battery on family members that doesnt cause bodily harm, making it punishable by a fine or a 15-day arrest.

The law needs to be approved by the largely rubber-stamp upper chamber and signed by President Vladimir Putin, who has signaled his support.

The bill has raised fears that it could sow impunity for those who beat their family members, but its supporters have argued that it retains criminal responsibility for repeat offenders.

The measure is a response to conservative activists criticism of the current legislation, seen by some as a threat to parents who might spank their children.

 Associated Press

POLAND

Gathering honors victims of Holocaust

Jewish and Christian leaders prayed over the ruins of gas chambers at Auschwitz-Birkenau as some warned on International Holocaust Remembrance Day of rising xenophobic hatred against Jews, Muslims and others.

Camp survivors gathered Friday with political leaders and representatives of Polands Jewish community at the site where Nazi Germany murdered about 1.1 million people during World War II, mostly Jews from across Europe, but also Poles, Roma and others.

Polish Prime Minister Beata Szydlo recalled the destruction of humanity and the ocean of lost lives and hopes that resulted from the German genocide. Its an open wound that may close sometimes, but

it shall never be fully healed, and it must not be forgotten, she said.

Dozens of Auschwitz survivors placed flowers at the infamous execution wall on the 72nd anniversary of the camps liberation by Soviet soldiers.

 Associated Press

BURKINA FASO

Islamist extremists threaten teachers

Heavily armed Islamist extremists forced their way into schools in northern Burkina Faso this week, ordering teachers to stop instructing in French and instead focus only on Islam and the Koran, the countrys security minister said Friday.

The government deployed soldiers to Baraboule commune, where the incidents occurred, and surrounding areas near the border with Mali, Simon Compaore, a politician who served as mayor of the capital city, Ouagadougou, told journalists. He did not say how many troops were deployed.

There were no reported casualties in the incidents at the schools, but teacher Moumouni Tamboura said teachers were too scared to work in an atmosphere of terror.

Last month, extremists killed 12 soldiers in an attack on an army barracks in the northern town of Nassoumbou. The attack was claimed by Ibrahim Dicko, a radical preacher whose fighters are believed to be based in Mali.

 Associated Press

Rivals trap miners in Bolivia: About 100 wildcat miners used dynamite to trap 19 rivals inside a mine in a remote area of Bolivia, authorities said. Police said the group blocked the mines entrance and took control of another exit at the Asientos mine. Police said the lives of the trapped miners are not at risk. The silver, lead and zinc mine is about 200 miles southeast of the Bolivian capital of Sucre. Police were trying to rescue the miners, who were getting food and water through ventilation ducts.

Charity to return to Somalia: Doctors Without Borders plans to return to Somalia, more than three years after closing its operations in the country. The charity pulled out of Somalia in August 2013 after 22 years there. It cited extreme attacks on its staff in an environment where armed groups and civilian leaders allowed or condoned killings, assaults and abductions of humanitarian workers.

3 countries agree on rail checks: Belgium has sealed a deal with France and the Netherlands to draw up passenger lists and introduce passport checks on Thalys and Eurostar international rail services. Interior Minister Jan Jambon told broadcaster VRT that the move will tighten security on the high-speed trains and help track criminals. The three countries are part of Europes 26-nation Schengen passport-free area, where travelers IDs arent usually checked.

 From news services
Danny Mastrogiorigio, left, and Robert Morse are seen backstage during a matinee of "The Front Page" at the Broadhurst Theatre on Dec. 7 in New York. (Matt McClain/The Washington Post)

I enjoyed reading Peter Markss account of life backstage at The Front Page [Places, please!, Arts & Style, Jan. 15]. I worked on props for plays and musicals while in college and later volunteered with a little theater group in New England. Marks got it right, especially about the audience being different every night and influencing the performances.

And it is good to see that Robert Morse is still working as an actor. We went to the same high school, and I saw him perform in the comic role (Ko-Ko) in The Mikado. The other students and I said he should go on the stage. It is nice to know how prophetic we were.

Leslie J. Wilder, Alexandria
TRANSITION FROM military rule to democracy remains far from assured in Burma, where the military continues to be a formidable force. Now it is carrying out a scorched-earth offensive against Rohingya Muslim militants in Rakhine state, a campaign that has forced 65,000 civilians to flee across the border to Bangladesh amid reports of mass rape, torture and the killing of innocents. Some 90 people have died. Therein lies a challenge for Aung San Suu Kyi, the leader of the democracy movement who now tenuously steers the country, and for Burmas foreign partners.

We have urged Aung San Suu Kyi to be more outspoken in support of the long-suffering Rohingya minority, especially now that she has made the crossing from dissident to political leader of her country, which is also known as Myanmar. We think she should bring to bear her considerable moral standing as a Nobel laureate and do what she can  including promote unhindered investigation and reporting from the region  to end the abuses. But the ferocious assault on the Rohingya is being waged by the military, and the generals must be held to account first and foremost. With a quarter of parliament seats reserved for the military, those generals still dominate the power structure of this Buddhist-majority country.

The latest conflict began Oct. 9 when a newly formed group of Rohingya insurgents struck in the northern part of Rakhine state at three posts near the border with Bangladesh, killing nine police officers. The group, well-funded and organized, has been identified as Harakah al-Yaqin by the International Crisis Group, marking a turn to guerrilla tactics and violence by Rohingya militants. Since then, the Burmese military has responded harshly, including with widespread destruction of villages and atrocities against civilians. The government has denied allegations of abuse, but human rights investigators and journalists have been largely barred from the scene.

This is a delicate moment when outside pressure might do some good. The Obama administration celebrated Burmas progress toward democracy, lifting sanctions and making high-level visits to encourage it. We have no idea whether President Trump will care a whit for the plight of this battered people. He and his appointees have shown no enthusiasm for advancing human rights abroad, and Mr. Trump is fond of strongmen. But the United States has made a big down payment on Burmas journey toward a democratic society; further effort is called for, if a way can be found to do it without undermining Aung San Suu Kyis shaky position. The conflict in Rakhine state should also bring a stronger response from the United Nations.

The Rohingya civilian suffering is intense, even if it is not on the radar screen in the West. Though the scale of violence so far is smaller, think of it as the Aleppo of Asia  a nascent armed insurgency; a mass of helpless, innocent people; religious fault lines; and crushing blows from a powerful military. This is a powder keg that should concern all.
Regarding the Jan. 27 editorial A trade war we dont need:

Building a wall along the Mexican border need not be contentious. Look to the Great Wall of China for inspiration. Our wall could be an architectural inspiration in which both Mexicans and Americans could take pride. Rather than dispute which nation, neighbors by the way, should pay for it, make it self-financing. Create a beautiful wall, a tourist attraction.

Chinas Great Wall is about 13,000 miles in length and took about 19 centuries to build. It can be seen from space, which will appeal to some Mexican wall proponents. There are up to 70,000 visitors each day, and thats just in one section. Consider the income to be generated by charging admission fees. Advances in building technologies will reduce the time it takes to build our wall. New jobs will be created. Tourists will need hotels, restaurants, souvenir shops and the like  and additional tax income.

If the purpose was to keep out barbarians, Chinas wall was not very effective, but I digress. Our wall is a winner.

Harold A. Vaughn, Washington

What would Ronald Reagan say about a fellow Republican president who is working so hard and wants to spend so much money on a wall that will hinder relations with an important ally and cost billions neither country has to spare? Perhaps the same thing he said in Berlin: Tear down this wall!

Kathrine Ebert, Washington

I have a degree in economics, but you dont need one to know that Mexico isnt going to just stand by and do nothing if an import tax is put into effect. It will simply tax any products going from the United States into Mexico at 40 percent. Whos going to lose? We are.

Steve Hirsch, Baltimore

A 20 percent tax on imports from Mexico would certainly affect the economies of the United States and Mexico, and perhaps it would in some sense also punish Mexico, but how would it make Mexico pay for the wall? It seems that the customers who buy Mexican products at the new and higher prices would be footing the bill.

Byron Stump, West Friendship, Md.
Ernesto Zedillo, a professor in the field of international economics and politics at Yale University, was president of Mexico from 1994 to 2000.

The Mexican government has been courteous toward Donald Trump, as both a candidate and now U.S. president. Indeed, Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto has paid a high political cost at home for his being open to working constructively with President Trump. But Pena Nieto has done the right thing by putting the interests of Mexico and the preservation of mutually beneficial relations with our neighbor above his personal popularity. Nevertheless, the time has come to admit that the actions of the new administration have closed off, at least for the foreseeable future, the possibility of any agreement being achieved through dialogue and negotiation that could satisfy the interests of both parties.

This is an unfortunate and sad situation, but the effort to accommodate President Trumps capricious wishes has proven worthless and should not be continued. It is not useful for Mexico or the United States.

(Zoeann Murphy/The Washington Post)

In retrospect, the probability of reaching a mutually beneficial agreement on the topics on President Trumps Mexico agenda was always small, considering that his demands have defied legal and economic rationality all along.

For example, President Trumps aspiration to renegotiate NAFTA stems from the incorrect idea that the trade balance between the two countries originates in Mexican advantages built into NAFTA and that a trade balance, if positive for Mexico, means the automatic transfer of jobs from the United States to its southern partner. Both concepts are mistaken.

Equally erroneous is President Trumps failure to account for how modern transportation systems and information technology have changed international trade. This progress has created sophisticated supply chains that deliver products and services, including new ones, at low prices.

Given its amazing technological and entrepreneurial capacity, the United States has been the main beneficiary of this new way of organizing international production and trade. Many American firms are able to compete successfully around the world with those from Europe and Asia, and therefore can provide high-quality, good-paying U.S. jobs, precisely because they are free to develop links along their supply chains in places such as Mexico  in this case thanks to NAFTA.

Thats why it should have been evident from the start that it would be impossible to accommodate President Trumps objective of balancing the trade account with Mexico by tweaking NAFTA alone. If President Trump remains obsessed with that wrongheaded objective, Mexico should take that as a wish to kill NAFTA, which of course is something that he has the legal ability to do.

It would be a waste of time for the Mexican government to play a NAFTA-tweaking game with the Trump administration. Only if the U.S. government submits a serious and clear agenda of NAFTA-related points, consistent with the interests of the two countries, should Mexican authorities move to restart the dialogue. At this point, however, such a scenario is most unlikely, and the prudent thing would be to assume that President Trump will kill NAFTA. Of course, this would be costly for the two economies  and, at least initially, disproportionately so for Mexico.

But such an outcome should not be cause for despair in my country. NAFTA has been an excellent instrument, but it is only one among many tools available to pursue the goals of economic growth and development. Unlike its northern neighbor, Mexico should reinforce its commitment to openness and sound economic policies. We cannot afford to do otherwise.

Mexico can create new conditions that will keep, and even enhance, our standing as a good place for global companies to produce for our own and other important markets, not least the United States. We should reassure global companies, with concrete actions, that Mexico will remain open for business and that our government will not try to intimidate them or tell them what, where and how to produce. The current Mexican administration, which successfully launched incredibly ambitious economic reforms in its early years, should return to this reformist impulse. The end of NAFTA, as disruptive and costly as it would be in the short term, could be compensated for with the right set of policies.

Of course, as he has threatened, President Trump may wish to go beyond the cancellation of NAFTA and try to impose additional barriers on trade with Mexico. My country must be ready to use all legal instruments possible, particularly those provided by the World Trade Organization, to contest any arbitrary and illegal action. President Trump could even entertain the withdrawal of the United States from that central arbiter of international trade disputes, at which point the Mexican issue would become a global problem that would have to be confronted by the full international community.

As for President Trumps border wall: Obviously there is little the Mexican government can do to encourage more enlightened U.S. immigration policies; these are strictly a domestic matter, despite the consequences for other countries, including Mexico. But its clear that if economics counts, it is far better to make good laws than pernicious walls. Those laws must support a well-functioning U.S. labor market without providing incentives for a black market of undocumented low-skilled workers.

Of course, repeating this to President Trump would be beside the point; the wall seems to be another of his obsessions vis-a-vis Mexico, and its none of Mexicos business if the U.S. government wants to add to its national debt by building a white elephant on its own territory. What we reject, under any circumstances, is any attempt to use a single inch of our territory to build such an abominable structure. All Mexicans are behind President Pena Nieto when he tells President Trump that we will not pay for his extravagant, offensive and useless project.
THE EXECUTIVE ORDER that President Trump signed on Friday calling a temporary halt to travel to the United States from seven predominantly Muslim nations  and indefinitely blocking refugees from the worlds largest humanitarian crisis, in Syriais an affront to values upon which the nation was founded and that have made it a beacon of hope around the world. George Washington declared in 1783 that the bosom of America is open not only to the opulent and respectable stranger but also the oppressed and persecuted. Now Mr. Trump has slammed the door on the oppressed and persecuted in a fit of irrational xenophobia.

He ordered foreign nationals from Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia, Yemen and Iraq be barred immediately from entry into the United States for 90 days while more rigorous visa screening is put into place. This touched off panic and chaos at airports on Saturday as people with already-issued visas were turned away from boarding flights and others detained on arrival. Among those caught in the mess and held at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York was an Iraqi who had worked for the United States in Iraq for a decade. Green card holders, already permanent residents in the United States who happened to be overseas, were told they could no longer re-enter. Untold thousands of people who have applied for visas  including translators and interpreters who have worked with U.S. forces in Iraq  were left wondering if they would ever make it to American shores.

Syrias civil war has forced about 4.8 million people to flee to neighboring countries, and 1 million are seeking asylum in Europe. Mr. Trump callously and without evidence declared that Syrian refugees are detrimental to the interests of the United States, although in fact the relatively small number who have come to the United States have proven overwhelmingly positive. Mr. Trumps four-month ban on refugees from these predominantly Muslim nations was accompanied by an instruction to prioritize refugee claims made by religious minorities facing persecution, chiefly Christians whose communities have suffered greatly over many decades. We think theres a legitimate place in refugee policy for favoring persecuted minorities, but favoring one faith while blocking people from another is demeaning to all and runs counter to the basic tenet that the United States does not discriminate by religion.

Mr. Trump claims these seven countries might produce terrorists who will use any means possible to enter the United States. The country that supplied 15 of the 19 hijackers in the 9/11 attacks is Saudi Arabia, which is not on Mr. Trumps list. Vigilance is always called for, but refugees to the United States are as a whole grateful and hard-working and have not resorted to terrorism. Cutting them off not only punishes the most vulnerable, but may encourage terrorist recruitment and violence.

Mr. Trumps actions pander to rage and fear of outsiders. Yet our long history shows these fears are unfounded. The diversity, experience and striving of immigrants and refugees have immeasurably strengthened the United States; outbursts of anti-alien sentiment have only weakened it.
Sen. Marco Rubio has a well-deserved reputation for being a windbag who huffs and puffs but never quite blows anything down. The Florida Republican is relentless, however, when it comes to throwing his weight against the District. Nothing like beating up on someone who cant fight back.

Toward that end, Rubio has reintroduced the Second Amendment Enforcement Act, a bill aimed at gutting the citys tough gun-registration requirements, which a federal judge upheld.

Rubios bill went nowhere when introduced in 2015. But with a Republican-controlled Congress, and a president who has a concealed-carry permit and a National Rifle Association endorsement, Rubio might finally get a win.

If he succeeds, the District will be the big loser.

Besides undoing the citys gun laws, Rubios bill would make it easy for residents and visitors to get a concealed-carry permit. Thats right, stand in line at the checkout counter, stroll through the citys streets or have a row with a neighbor, all while packing heat.

Rubios bill would also strip the D.C. Council and mayor of their ability to pass future gun-control restrictions, and it would allow D.C. residents to buy guns in neighboring states such as Virginia, where purchasing requirements are as weak as water.

Rubio would inflict all this upon the District because, as he said in his introductory statement, In order to achieve the American Dream, people need to be able to live in safe communities and be able to protect themselves, their families and their properties from danger. Rolling back gun restrictions will make Washington, D.C., a safer place for law-abiding citizens, and will restore the original intent of the Second Amendment to our nations capital, said the bills co-sponsor, Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio).

To which I humbly ask, if restoration of Second Amendment rights is good for the District, why not extend that basic goodness to Capitol Hill?

After all, nowhere is the lawful exercise of the Second Amendment, as Rubio and the NRA define it, more infringed upon than at the U.S. Capitol.

Congresss restrictions leave little wiggle room. According to rules of the Architect of the Capitol: The following items are strictly prohibited in the Capitol, including the Capitol Visitor Center: . . . Guns, replica guns, ammunition and fireworks . . . electric stun guns, martial arts weapons or devices.

Thats right. If you are a law-abiding citizen, have passed a background check, received firearm training, have a permit to carry a concealed weapon, carry a loaded gun and want to visit your senator or representative, or sit in the House or Senate gallery, or eat in the cafeteria, you simply cannot.

How can Rubio and the gun rights movement let that be?

Their whole premise is that the power of self-defense rests with the people, and that, as the NRA preaches, no person is left to depend solely on the states good graces for his or her very life.

So why limit the power of self-defense to D.C. residents? Shouldnt those powers be bestowed upon our fellow Americans who visit Congress?

Its not as if the Capitol complex is immune from gunplay.

Recall nearly a year ago when a man from Tennessee attempted to go through metal detectors at the Capitol Visitor Center entrance, got stopped and pulled out what appeared to be a weapon. He got shot for his trouble by a Capitol police officer, and a bullet fragment injured a female civilian bystander.

Remember, too, the man carrying a sign who pulled out a gun and killed himself near the Capitol fountain in April 2015. Or the young mother who was shot and killed by police on the Capitol grounds in 2013 after she had driven into White House security barriers.

Rubio seems worried sick that the citys gun restrictions are rendering law-abiding D.C. residents vulnerable to criminals who could care less what the gun laws are. Well, what about our fellow Americans who visit Capitol Hill? Shouldnt they be able to protect themselves?

A Capitol Police spokeswoman told Yahoo News that members of Congress may keep firearms in their office and may transport them, too  as long as theyre unloaded.

Why cant lawmakers bring loaded guns to work? Whats wrong with allowing the public to enter congressional offices or attend public hearings with the reassurance of pistols at their side?

If the presence of a gun-toting public is good enough for the streets of our nations capital, shouldnt the same be good enough on congressional grounds?

Surely Rubio must see it that way. Or is the job of restoring the Second Amendment to Capitol Hill too big for the big, bad senator?

Read more from Colbert Kings archive.
It took a former Montgomery County Public Schools reading teacher from Bethesdas Burning Tree Elementary School to commit $20 million of her own money to help finance the $50 million Planet Word, a museum planned for the former Franklin School that will feature language and linguistics [On historic D.C. buildings fate, the latest word is: Words, news, Jan. 26]. In these days of video games and emoji, it took a reading teacher turned philanthropist to show us all that speech, literature, journalism and poetry must be valued to ensure that our American democracy continues via the written and spoken word. Thank you, Ann Friedman.

Reading instructors and English teachers nationwide are singing Ms. Freidmans praises for helping promote the most basic of skills that forever set people free from ignorance, prejudice and enslavement. I hope she will seek input from them and place many in the company of her informal experts for ideas and inspiration as they too deal with words and language on a daily basis. Many people may also wish to be part of her fundraising efforts because they hold words and language as sacred as she and share her same passion.

Kathy A. Megyeri, Washington
IN A burst of executive orders, President Trump sought Tuesday to revive two controversial oil pipelines  the Dakota Access Pipeline and the Keystone XL Pipeline. In the process, he reanimated a stale, mostly irrational debate about infrastructure projects that never merited such controversy.

Anti-pipeline activists bear a great deal of blame for this senseless state of affairs. Despite study after study showing that Keystone XL would have negligible effects on the climate, they built a movement around denying the permit the pipeline needed to cross the Canada-U.S. border, backed by implausible arguments about permanently trapping Canadian oil in the ground by choking off access to it. The movement was misleading  stopping the pipeline would not have really moved the needle one way or the other for the environment  and so it was an enormous misallocation of time and energy. Yet they got their prize, anyway, prevailing on the Obama administration to halt the project.

Following the Keystone XL episode, the Dakota Access Pipeline drew concerns about Native American rights as well as environmentalist objections. A tribe with a reservation near a section of the route protested that the project would pass under a federally administered reservoir near their land, and they accused the builders and the government of failing to consult them. In an exhaustive and careful ruling, a federal court rejected their procedural complaints. The fact that the proposed route parallels an existing natural gas pipeline, moreover, pours cold water on the environmental concerns. As long as the nation requires oil, it will need pipelines to go somewhere. Nevertheless, the Army Corps of Engineers decided in the waning days of the Obama administration to explore alternative routes.

Many on the other side of the debate, meanwhile, responded to the activism unreasonably. Industry and political figures wildly inflated the importance of new oil pipeline construction to the national economy, using the controversy as a political cudgel against Democrats.

If Mr. Trump wanted to break this unreasonable cycle, he would have sought to make clear that infrastructure permitting is no longer going to be politicized, instead of making these pipelines signature issues and pressing his administration to get to his desired result. Now that the Army Corps is reviewing the Dakota Access routing, for example, it is worth letting the experts finish their examination in case they uncover a routing that satisfies more of the parties involved. Instead, Mr. Trump is pressing them to scrap the new review before it is finished. He also apparently intends to make the pipeline issue a vehicle for his dangerous protectionist impulses, saying the projects will use American steel. So, international trade in oil is good, but global trade in steel is not?

The activists are promising to fight back with lawsuits and public protests. They probably will not be able to stop the projects from proceeding. But they and their opponents will no doubt manage to kick up a lot of dust before these controversies are finally resolved. More wasted energy.
Donald Trump walks through the Capitol to his inauguration ceremony in Washington on Jan. 20. (J. Scott Applewhite/Pool photo via Associated Press)

In his Jan. 15 letter, Mr. Trump makes the news, Ron Bashian claimed that President Trump has a  show me attitude, an expression usually reserved for those skeptical thinkers who demand evidence before reaching a conclusion. Trump is the opposite of a show me thinker. He arrives at conclusions before gathering evidence. When shown evidence contradicting his position, he is impervious.

Witness his stand on vaccines and global warming. Trump maintains that he saw American Muslims celebrating after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, even though no such celebration took place. And incredibly, he now maintains that he never mocked a disabled reporter, an event the whole world witnessed.

John Mathwin, Rockville
Officials in Seattle on Friday approved the nations first safe-injection sites for users of heroin and other illegal drugs, calling the move a drastic but necessary response to an epidemic of addiction that is claiming tens of thousands of lives each year.

The sites  which offer addicts clean needles, medical supervision and quick access to drugs that reverse the effects of an overdose  have long been popular in Europe. Now, with the U.S. death toll rising, the idea is gaining traction in a number of American cities, including Boston, New York City and Ithaca, N.Y.

While opponents say the sites promote illegal drug use, supporters say they can keep people alive and steer them toward treatment. They compare supervised injection facilities to the needle exchanges that became popular in the 1980s and 1990s as a way to stanch the spread of HIV and hepatitis C among intravenous drug users.

These sites save lives and that is our goal in Seattle/King County, Seattle Mayor Ed Murray (D) said in a statement.

The sites are not currently legal under federal law, according to Kelly Dineen, a professor of health law at Saint Louis University School of Law. A provision of the Controlled Substances Act makes it illegal to operate facilities where drugs are used, she said.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a record 33,000 people died from opioid overdoses in 2015. Opioids now kill more people each year than car accidents. In 2015, the number of heroin deaths nationwide surpassed the number of deaths from gun homicides.

In addition to heroin, the deaths are caused by powerful prescription painkillers and fentanyl, a synthetic opiate so potent a tiny amount can kill people within minutes  leaving little time for help to arrive.

If you want to really bend this curve of death, [safe injection sites are] going to have to be part of the strategy, said Jessie Gaeta, chief medical officer of the Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program, which treats many victims of overdose.

In Seattle, the King County Board of Health voted unanimously earlier this month to endorse two sites, one to be located in the city and the other to be located in the surrounding county. Murray and King County Executive Dow Constantine (D) gave them final approval Friday. In 2015, 132 people died of heroin overdoses in the county.

We see this as a public health emergency, said Jeff Duchin, the health officer for Seattle and King County. Clearly the status quo isnt working anywhere, and clearly we need to look at new tools.

Duchin said officials hope to open the Seattle site within a year. Both sites will be aimed primarily at homeless drug users, he said, with a goal of providing them basic health services and ultimately drug treatment.

The real goal is not to open a day spa where people can come in and have a good time and use drugs, but to engage them in treatment, Duchin said. They inject in a place where theres a health-care worker who can save their lives if they overdose.

Duchin said all drug users will be supervised at all times. If a person exhibits signs of an overdose, he said, a health-care worker will administer Naloxone, a drug that reverses the effects of opioids.

Over the next three years, officials plan to study the sites and collect data on how many people they attract, whether overdose deaths are being prevented and whether users of the sites enter drug treatment.

Possession of heroin is illegal under federal law, but, Duchin said, Were not really seeing this as a legal problem right now. If there are legal issues that come up, well have to address them.

The Justice Department did not respond to a request for comment.

King County Sheriff John Urquhart (D) has been supportive of the idea, though he said the jury is still out on whether the sites will reduce the number of overdoses. He said his deputies will not arrest anyone coming or going from the sites, but he warned that the federal government could camp out in front of the site and arrest anyone in possession.

Meanwhile, the idea is running into opposition outside the city, with some suburban mayors making clear they are not eager to host one of the sites. State Sen. Mark Miloscia (R), who represents Federal Way, in the southern reaches of King County near Tacoma, introduced a bill barring safe injection facilities from opening anywhere in the state. It will have a hearing Monday.

The people in my district, Democrat or Republican, would come unglued if we put a safe injection site in Federal Way, Miloscia said. Saving lives is about getting people off heroin and not tolerating it.

Worldwide, at least 90 facilities have been created to permit people to inject illegal drugs under medical supervision. The first opened in Berne, Switzerland, in 1986. France opened its first facility in October. A supervised injection site in Vancouver, B.C., is the only such site in North America.

After that facility opened in 2003, researchers found that overdose deaths in the surrounding community dropped 35 percent in just two years. Still, British Columbia recorded 914 overdose deaths last year, up 80 percent from 2015.

Closer to home, the New York City Council last year appropriated $100,000 to study opening a safe-injection facility. San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee (D) dropped his longtime opposition to the sites, saying recently that he is now open to them.

And in Ithaca, N.Y., home to Cornell University, Mayor Svante Myrick (D) has been pushing to bring a site to his city. Myricks father suffered from drug addiction. He won a recommendation from a city task force last year.

That effort has since stalled amid rising opposition from the citys police chief and state lawmakers. Cornell law professor William Jacobson has argued that the sites amount to a government-run heroin shooting gallery, though he recently acknowledged that the sites might help to prevent overdoses.

The heroin scourge is real, Jacobson said in an email. Im just not sure normalizing the use helps the problem.

In Massachusetts, state Sen. William Brownsberger (D) recently introduced legislation to permit safe-injection sites throughout the state. Currently, Boston Health Care for the Homeless offers medical monitoring to people who have injected illegal drugs, but they are not permitted to use drugs onsite.

The program, which started in April, has 10 chairs where addicts can sit while a nurse monitors vital signs and administers Naloxone in case of an overdose. Gaeta said 400 people have used the facility 2,679 times. About 10 percent of them have gone directly from the room into treatment, a number she called miraculous.
President Donald Trump, first lady Melania Trump and their son, Barron, walk to Marine One at the White House en route to Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Fla.

March 17, 2017 President Donald Trump, first lady Melania Trump and their son, Barron, walk to Marine One at the White House en route to Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Fla. Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post

The beginning of the presidents term has featured controversial executive orders and frequent conflicts with the media.

The new president is expected to make his mark on an aggressive legislative agenda.

The new president is expected to make his mark on an aggressive legislative agenda.

See what President Trump has been doing since taking office

See what President Trump has been doing since taking office

President Trump on Saturday ordered the Pentagon to devise a strategy to defeat the Islamic State and restructured the National Security Council to include his controversial top political adviser as he forged a partnership with Russian President Vladimir Putin in their first official phone call.

Trump and Putin spoke for one hour and vowed to join forces to fight terrorism in Syria and elsewhere, according to the White House and the Kremlin, signaling a potential shift in U.S.-Russian relations that have been marked by high tension.

Meanwhile, Trump signed a presidential memo directing the Pentagon to submit a plan within 30 days to defeat the Islamic State, an effort to make good on his campaign promise to more aggressively confront Islamist terrorism than his predecessor did.

Even prior to the memo, military officials had been at work developing potential actions for Trump and Defense Secretary James Mattis to consider. Those include potentially deploying additional advisers to Iraq and Syria, allowing U.S. military personnel to accompany local forces closer to the front lines, and delegating greater decision-making power to field commanders.

As he signed his directive at his desk in the Oval Office, Trump said, I think its going to be very successful. Thats big stuff.

(The Washington Post)

Counseling Trump in the effort will be Stephen K. Bannon, the White House chief strategist whose influence inside the administration is expanding far beyond politics. In a separate presidential memo, Trump reorganized the National Security Council to, along with other changes, give Bannon a regular seat on the principals committee  the meetings of the most senior national security officials, including the secretaries of defense and state.

That memo also states that the director of national intelligence and the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff will sit on the principals committee only when the issues to be discussed pertain to their responsibilities and expertise. In the previous two administrations, both were included as regular attendees.

The White House thinks the changes will make the NSC more adaptive to modern threats. Trump said the changes would bring a lot of efficiency and, I think, a lot of additional safety.

The changes affirm the ascent of Bannon, the former executive chairman of Breitbart, a conservative website that is popular with white nationalists, who has emerged as Trumps political consigliere and the keeper of the presidents populist flame.

Bannon has already been playing a major role in directing Trumps foreign policy, administration officials say, and joined the president in the Oval Office on Saturday for his calls with Putin and several other world leaders.

In their call, Putin and Trump discussed Ukraine and Syria, and they agreed to build stronger economic ties between the United States and Russia, according to a statement issued by the Kremlin. They said they would arrange an in-person meeting, but Putin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told the Interfax news agency that the two presidents did not specifically talk about a lifting of the sanctions the Obama administration imposed against Russia over alleged Russian interference in the U.S. presidential election and Moscows military intervention in Ukraine.

Eliminating the sanctions is a priority for Moscow, but Trump is under pressure in the United States to maintain them and said Friday that he thought it was premature to consider lifting them.

(The Washington Post)

The White House described the conversation as a congratulatory call initiated by Putin.

The positive call was a significant start to improving the relationship between the United States and Russia that is in need of repair, read a statement from the White House. Both President Trump and President Putin are hopeful that after todays call the two sides can move quickly to tackle terrorism and other important issues of mutual concern.

This was one of five conversations Trump had Saturday with world leaders. Seeking to cultivate a personal rapport, Trump spoke with the leaders of Australia, France, Germany and Japan, but his administrations suspension of the acceptance of all refugees and a suspension of entry by citizens from seven majority-Muslim nations injected some diplomatic tension into the conversations.

In their call, French President Francois Hollande told Trump that he believes defending their democracies would be effective only if their governments adhere to the principles on which they are founded, in particular the reception of refugees, according to the Elysee Palace, the French presidents office.

Trumps conversation with Putin was hotly anticipated, considering the warmth with which each man has spoken of the other.

Trump spoke with Putin from behind his desk in the Oval Office, which was stacked with papers and a glass of Diet Coke. The president was flanked by Vice President Pence, national security adviser Michael Flynn, White House Chief of Staff Reince Priebus, press secretary Sean Spicer and Bannon.

Trump began the day with a call to Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to discuss security and trade issues between the two countries and the mutual threat posed by North Korea, according to the White House.

Abe, who during Trumps transition phase became the first foreign leader to talk face-to-face with the president-elect, agreed to meet Trump during a visit to Washington on Feb. 10, according to the White House.

Trump then spoke with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, whom he had blasted repeatedly on the campaign trail over the German policy of admitting large numbers of Syrian refugees. Trump and Merkel covered a range of issues, including the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, according to the White House.

After Trumps criticism of NATO during his campaign, the president and Merkel agreed on the alliances fundamental importance to the broader transatlantic relationship and its role in ensuring the peace and stability of our North Atlantic community, read a White House statement.

Trump accepted Merkels invitation to visit Hamburg, in July for the G-20 summit, and Trump invited the chancellor to visit Washington soon, the White House said.

Later Saturday, Trump talked with Hollande as well as Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull. Hollande told Trump that it was important to maintain the Paris agreement on climate change, according to Hollandes office. Trump has said he wants the United States to withdraw from the accord.

In Moscow, leaders had expressed cautious optimism that the new American leader could forge stronger ties than Obama did. From Moscows point of view, lifting the sanctions imposed by the Obama administration for interference in the presidential election and Russias intervention in Ukraine would be a good start, as would a reduction of NATOs military presence near Russias borders.

Trump has said he sees his posture toward Putin as in the geopolitical interests of the United States. He has consistently argued that Russia can be a strong ally, saying the two countries could cooperate on counterterrorism as well as countering nuclear proliferation.

U.S. lawmakers from both parties  as well as some of Trumps Cabinet nominees  have raised alarms, or at least questioned, his approach.

Also on Saturday, Trump signed an executive order finalizing new lobbying rules that had been informally established during the transition period. It stipulates that administration officials cannot register as lobbyists for five years after leaving the government  and can never lobby on behalf of a foreign government.

Most of the people standing behind me wont be able to go to work or do anything adverse to our wonderful country, Trump said, as the aides standing behind him in the Oval Office laughed.

Filipov reported from Moscow. James McAuley in Paris, Anthony Faiola in Berlin and Karen DeYoung, Jenna Johnson and Missy Ryan in Washington contributed to this report.
President Trump, accompanied by Vice President Pence, shakes hands with House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wis.) on Thursday at a congressional retreat in Philadelphia on Thursday. (Matt Rourke/AP)

Facing intense criticism and dramatic news coverage of chaos and protests at airports worldwide, several congressional Republicans on Saturday questioned President Trumps order to halt admission to the United States by refugees and citizens of seven Muslim-majority countries.

House Speaker Paul D. Ryan (R-Wis.) and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) were not among them.

Ryan was among the first lawmakers on Friday to back Trumps order, and his office reiterated his support on Saturday.

This is not a religious test and it is not a ban on people of any religion, said spokeswoman AshLee Strong.

Ryan and other Republicans defending Trumps actions faced criticism from Democrats, human rights activists and even some in their own party. Ryans defense and McConnells silence, some critics said, amounted to a moral failing that made them complicit in a humanitarian crisis.

To my colleagues: dont ever again lecture me on American moral leadership if you chose to be silent today, Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) posted on Twitter along with the famous image of a toddler boy who had died in 2015 while his family fled Syria and whose body had washed up on Turkeys shore.

The order blocks citizens from Iran, Iraq, Syria, Yemen, Sudan, Somalia and Libya from entering the country for at least 90 days. It also bans refugees from anywhere in the world for 120 days  and from Syria indefinitely. Trump said the goal is to screen out radical Islamic terrorists and to give priority for admission to Christians.

[Trump signs order temporarily halting admission of refugees, promises priority for Christians]

Republicans defending the executive order pointed to an exception for people already in transit and argued that some elements, including the religious minority preference, would not immediately be implemented. But as cable news footage brought scenes Saturday of chaos at airports around the country, where business travelers, students and even legal U.S. residents were being barred entry, other Republicans began weighing in.

This is ridiculous, said Rep. Charlie Dent (R-Pa.). I guess I understand what his intention is, but unfortunately the order appears to have been rushed through without full consideration. You know, there are many, many nuances of immigration policy that can be life or death for many innocent, vulnerable people around the world.

Dent, who represents a large Syrian community in the Allentown area, said he was contacted Saturday by a constituent whose family members were turned away early in the morning at Philadelphia International Airport. Six family members who had secured visas and even bought a house in Pennsylvania arrived on a Qatar Airways flight but were turned back within hours, he said.

Dent called on the Trump administration to immediately halt action on the order.

This family was sent home despite having all their paperwork in order, Dent said. So this 90-day ban could imperil the lives of this family and potentially others, and its unacceptable, and I urge the administration to halt enforcement of this order until a more thoughtful and deliberate policy can be reinstated.

[Trump order barring refugees, migrants from Muslim countries triggers chaos, outrage]

Sen Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.) came out against the measure Saturday evening in a post on the blogging site Medium. Flake, a longtime opponent of the Muslim ban touted by Trump, said the administration is right to be concerned about national security but objected to the measure for broadly blocking those who already have gone through the immigration process.

Its unacceptable when even legal permanent residents are being detained or turned away at airports and ports of entry, Flake said in his post. Enhancing long term national security requires that we have a clear-eyed view of radical Islamic terrorism without ascribing radical Islamic terrorist views to all Muslims.

Some conservatives worried that denying entry to permanent residents and green-card holders could violate the Constitution. Many worried privately that the order will face significant challenges in court. Rep. Justin Amash (R-Mich.) was among the few GOP members to air his concerns publicly. Amash posted on Twitter that the order overreaches and undermines the Constitution.

Its not lawful to ban immigrants on basis of nationality, he tweeted. If the president wants to change immigration law, he must work with Congress.

Sen. Ben Sasse (R-Neb.) credited Trump with properly focusing on protecting the countrys borders and said it is necessary to connect jihadi terrorism with Islam and particular countries. However, he also noted that the order is too broad.

If we send a signal to the Middle East that the U.S. sees all Muslims as jihadis, the terrorist recruiters win by telling kids that America is banning Muslims and that this is America versus one religion, Sasse said. Our generational fight against jihadism requires wisdom.

Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah) said he has technical questions about how the order will be implemented but supports its purpose.

The statement from Ryans office came after several requests seeking comment on how the order differs from the Muslim ban that Ryan rejected during the campaign, whether such a ban is in line with American values and whether Ryan is concerned that the order is a first step toward a religious litmus test.

Ryan has been a consistent advocate for increased vetting standards and has frequently said he opposes a complete ban on Muslims entering the country.

Freedom of religion is a fundamental constitutional principle. Its a founding principle of this country, Ryan told reporters following a closed-door morning meeting at the Republican National Committee in December 2015. This is not conservatism. What was proposed yesterday is not what this party stands for. And more importantly, its not what this country stands for.

The majority of Republicans in Congress were silent on the order Saturday  including McConnell. Calls and emails to more than a dozen top GOP lawmakers were not returned.

Conservative advocacy groups, meanwhile, generally supported Trumps actions.

In an interview Saturday with The Washington Post, Faith and Freedom Coalition chairman Ralph Reed defended Trumps executive order, calling it an entirely prudent move and rejecting the notion that it amounts to a ban on Muslims or infringes on religious liberties.

It makes perfect sense not to try to build the airplane in the air, said Reed, who advocated hitting the pause button on current practices on immigration and refugee policies, over concerns about terrorism.

Congressional aides who did respond generally insisted that Trump was merely adopting a policy that passed the House last year with a veto-proof majority. The seven countries named in the order are currently included in the list of as countries of concern by the Department of Homeland Security. People who have traveled to or lived in those countries were already subject to additional scrutiny when applying for visa waivers.

One senior GOP aide said in an email that the executive order was narrow, a faint shadow of the policy Trump ran on. And several congressional aides who spoke on the condition of anonymity said that the executive order itself does not single out a preference for Christians, and the temporary travel ban is focused on areas where terrorism is a particular concern.

[ Ryan, McConnell denounce Trump plan to bar Muslims from the U.S. ]

Confusion over the directive played out at airports across the country as immigration officials attempted to decide how to handle refugees and travelers from those seven nations who were already in transit or on the ground when the executive order was issued.

Several news outlets reported instances of travelers being detained in airports, including Hameed Khalid Darweesh, a 53-year-old Iraqi man who spent several years acting as an interpreter for the U.S. Army in Iraq. Darweesh was released from detention in New Yorks John F. Kennedy airport after two New York Democrats, Reps. Jerrold Nadler and Nydia M. Velazquez, intervened on his behalf.

House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Edward R. Royce (R-Calif.) said Saturday that he backs the order but hopes for some resolution for those in transit as the order was announced.

Pausing the intake of refugees from terror hot spots is the right call to keep America safe, Royce said. I hope cases of individuals with visas traveling as this executive action went into effect  including some who served alongside U.S. troops  will be resolved quickly.

The House voted last year on legislation to suspend the admission of refugees from Syria and Iraq until the White House could certify that no person entering the United States would pose a security threat. Democrats blocked a vote on the legislation in the Senate, and it ultimately failed to reach President Obamas desk.

[ Republicans beat back attempt to hold vote on Trumps Muslim ban proposal ]

Aides also said it is not uncommon for an administration to prioritize refugee requests on the basis of religious persecution. However, since the beginning of the Syrian civil war and the rise of the Islamic State, many more Muslims than Christians have been killed or displaced because of the violence.

[Two Pinocchios for Trumps claim that it is very tough for Christian Syrians to get to the U.S.]

Ryan said Friday that while he supports the refugee resettlement program, he thinks it is time to reevaluate and strengthen the visa vetting process.

President Trump is right to make sure we are doing everything possible to know exactly who is entering our country, the speaker said Friday.

Other Republicans offered similar support for the order on national security grounds.

President Trump signed an order to help prevent jihadists from infiltrating the United States, House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Michael McCaul (R-Tex.) said in a statement. With the stroke of a pen, he is doing more to shut down terrorist pathways into this country than the last Administration did in eight years.

Evan McMullin, a former CIA officer and House GOP policy director who waged an independent presidential bid in 2016, was one of a small number of Republicans to publicly oppose the ban. McMullin tweeted a photo of the Statue of Liberty on Saturday morning, and was promptly mocked by the white nationalist Richard Spencer.

Thats who theyre in league with  white supremacists and white nationalists, McMullin said in an interview. Im not expecting much opposition from the vast majority of Republicans in Congress. There is anti-Muslim bigotry at both ends of Pennsylvania Avenue and it fundamentally un-American and tangibly damaging to our national security and strength.

Most Republicans, McMullin predicted, would decline to criticize the executive orders. Those who are silent on this will be defined by that silence, he said.

Sean Sullivan and David Weigel contributed to this report.

Read more at PowerPost
An ominous week-long standoff between the government and its rogue first vice president is choking traffic and dominating talk in the edgy Afghan capital. Police units have been stationed at strategic points near his fortified compound, and everyone is asking the same question: Are they going to arrest Abdurrashid Dostum?

Six weeks ago Dostum, 62, a powerful ethnic Uzbek boss and former warlord with a history of alleged war crimes and personal abuses, was publicly accused of brutality and rape by a former governor and political rival, Ahmad Eschi, who charged that Dostum had held him captive in a rural stronghold and ordered him sodomized with a military rifle.

The scandalous allegation thrust the government of President Ashraf Ghani into a tense predicament. Western governments and human rights groups strongly urged him to take legal action, calling the case a major test of civilian rule and institutions. Some influential Afghans counseled caution, warning that Dostum and his armed followers could react violently and urging Ghani to settle the matter through negotiations.

[Afghan vice president accused of brutal assault on former governor]

The president sternly declared he would follow the law, and his attorney general vowed to undertake a thorough, impartial investigation. Repeated letters were sent to Dostum requesting that he and his guards appear for questioning, but they went unanswered. On Monday, arrest warrants were issued for nine of his employees, and they were also ignored. Dostums spokesmen insist he cannot be held accountable.

Yet no move has been made to detain Dostum or his men. The first vice president, who could be suspended from his post by parliament for defying the law, remains sequestered in his militarized compound in a wealthy residential enclave, protected by armed guards and reporting for no official duties. There are also reports that some of the police units in the area are commanded by Dostum loyalists.

President Ghani does not have the power to act. You need a strong and serious police commander to go after him, said Atiqullah Amarkhail, a retired general. In Afghanistan, there are many centers of power, he said. The government is divided, and the army and police are loyal to individuals and factions.

Government officials said they are in no rush to go after Dostum and that they are focused on following proper legal procedures to avoid any suggestion of a political motive. We want to be extremely careful, because this is such a sensitive case. It is going to take time, one official said, speaking on the condition of anonymity because he is not authorized to comment publicly. He said Dostums associates understand the gravity of the situation and are in discussions on possible ways to comply.

Meanwhile, the governments uncertain relationships with other former warlords are further complicating the tense picture, raising alarms at an unsettled political moment. Even as the government attempts to bring Dostum to justice, it has invited fugitive militia leader Gulbuddin Hekmatyar to return to Kabul in a peace deal, hoping to persuade Taliban insurgents to follow suit.

[An Afghan warlord comes out of the shadows to make peace. But few trust him.]

Hekmatyar, a onetime Cold War U.S. ally, turned his forces against the Afghan government a decade ago and was put on a U.N. terrorist list. He was supposed to return only if the United Nations lifted sanctions against him. But this week, his spokesman in Kabul suddenly announced that Hekmatyar plans to come to the capital anyway. reportedly bringing hundreds of armed supporters as he enters national politics.

Davood Moradian, director of the Afghan Institute for Strategic Studies, noted that both Dostum and Hekmatyar have popular followings, have been accused of serious wartime abuses and have never been held accountable. The government must take pains to ensure that Hekmatyars invitation to Kabul is not seen as the state following a political double standard, trying to bring one warlord to justice while unfolding a red carpet to receive the other, Moradian said.

The other strongman in this volatile mix is Attah Mohammed Noor, a wealthy northern governor and longtime rival of Dostum, who has been negotiating with Ghani to obtain more influence and status. Noor is seen as a possible replacement for Dostum or Ghanis governing partner, chief executive Abdullah Abdullah, with whom the president has had a rocky relationship since they took power two years ago.

In a recent interview, Noor said that he did not want to prejudge the charges against Dostum, but he called the case shameful. We need the rule of law in Afghanistan, and no one should be above it, he said. Noor denied that he was seeking a senior appointment from Ghani, but he expressed concern that Dostum could retaliate against the government by unleashing violence or chaos in the north.

[Afghanistans vice president is known for brutality. But he may have gone too far.]

Some Afghan analysts said the politically debilitating charges against Dostum and the likely return of Hekmatyar could lead to dangerous ethnic divisions in the government and possibly strengthen the Taliban. Hekmatyar and Ghani are both ethnic Pashtuns, but Ghani is a Westernized intellectual, while Hekmatyar is a hard-line Islamist who could reinforce rather than help pacify the Taliban.

For the moment, though, it is Dostum who presents the most immediate challenge to Afghanistans weak coalition government. The longer he remains bunkered in his luxury compound a dozen blocks from the presidential palace, defying legal orders and dragging out the case against him, the more it looks as though the elected government, for all its international backing, is being held hostage by a strongman from another era.

Sayed Salahuddin and Sharif Walid in Kabul contributed to this report.

Read more:

Deadly insurgent attacks dim hopes for talks, spur regional worries

Donors pledge billions to Afghanistan but seek push for peace

Pressure mounts on Afghan vice president over brutality accusations

Todays coverage from Post correspondents around the world

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Kunio Odaira, 72, started working at the Cross Heart nursing home in Yokohama, Japan, after retiring from his job in sales at an auto parts maker. (Anna Fifield/The Washington Post)

 Its lunch hour at the Cross Heart nursing home, and a 72-year-old, slightly stooped man is spooning soup and filling tea cups.

But Kunio Odaira isnt one of the residents. Hes one of the staff, part of an increasingly gray workforce in an increasingly gray country.

I enjoy talking to the people here. Its fun, but its also hard work, Odaira said during a break from his caregiving duties on a recent day.

Japan is considered a super-aging society. More than a quarter of the population is over 65, a figure set to rise to 40 percent by 2050. The average life expectancy is 85, and that means many Japanese remain relatively healthy for a good two decades after retirement age.

At the same time, the birthrate has plummeted to well below the level needed to keep the population stable. Now home to 128 million people, Japan is expected to number less than 100 million by 2050, according to government projections.





That means authorities need to think about ways to keep seniors healthy and active for longer, but also about how to augment the workforce to cope with labor shortages.

Enter the septuagenarian caregiver.

At Cross Heart, more than half of the 119 caregivers are over 60, and 15 of them are over 70.

When we advertise for people to work here, we get lots of responses from older people, not younger people, said nursing home director Kaori Yokoo in the lobby where residents were doing leg curls and chest presses on weight machines.

[ In rapidly aging Japan, dying is big business ]

The foundation that runs this nursing home and others in Kanagawa Prefecture has raised the official retirement age to 70 but allows employees to keep working until 80 if they want to and can. Municipalities around the country are also actively recruiting people over 60 to do lighter duties at nursing homes.

Its one way of dealing with the problem. Meanwhile, researchers are working on robots that can lift the elderly out of beds and wheelchairs, and inward-looking Japan is slowly coming around to the idea that it may need to allow in more foreign workers.

Although older workers have constraints  some cant do the heavier tasks  they also offer advantages over younger workers who want time off for their children, said Yokoo, who is 41.

Plus, because theyre close in age to the residents, they can relate to each other more, she said. We younger people think this must be nice for them. Older staff can understand things like physical pains more because they are living through the same things.

Some of the older workers here are doing it because they need the money. For others, the money is a nice benefit, but the main motivation is the activity and sense of community.



Keiko Haga, who is 67 and has been working as a caregiver for four years, helps residents with meals, bathroom visits and tidying their rooms. I need to earn a living. That's why I'm here, she said. (Anna Fifield/The Washington Post)

Kiyoko Tsuboi, a 95-year-old who comes into the rest home during the day, said she likes having Odaira around.

Hes very attentive to our needs and knows things like how hot we like our tea. My son is not as kind as Odaira-san, Tsuboi said as Odaira cleared away the lunch dishes. Hes quite active despite his age, and even though hes a man, he has an eye for detail.

[ With rural Japan shrinking and aging, a small town seeks to stem the trend]

The dynamic works well for Odaira, too, who started here 17 years ago after retiring from his job in the sales department of an auto parts maker. He works eight hours a day, four days a week.

His father died when he was small, his mother when he was 22. Its not like Im replacing my mother, but I thought I could help someone elses parents, he said.

He also does it to stay young, Odaira said with a twinkle in his eye. I think its good for me physically and mentally, so as long as I can keep working, I will.

Hes not the oldest worker here, though. That title is shared by two 78-year-olds, a man who works in the office and Noriko Fukuju, who helps with pickups and drop-offs and does activities with the old people.

Its fun. I enjoy it, she said.

Hiroko Akiyama, at the University of Tokyos Institute of Gerontology, said a Japanese 65-year-old is in much better physical and mental shape than a 65-year-old a few decades ago. They are full of energy, and healthy and long-living, she said.

Akiyamas research has found that working helps keep seniors that way. They operate on a regular schedule. They wake up, get ready, go to work and talk to people and stay connected, she said. We had a depressed old woman who changed completely after she started working.

[ Yahoo Ending service lets users in Japan prepare for the inevitable]

Still, Japan cant rely solely on seniors or, potentially, robots to staff its nursing homes, where the need will only grow as the population ages, analysts say.

Japan has agreements with Indonesia, Vietnam and the Philippines under which applicants who complete job training and pass a Japanese language test can work at a Japanese nursing home.

But if they want to stay beyond three years, they must pass a national caregivers exam so difficult that 40 percent of Japanese applicants fail. Many Japanese also express concern about cultural differences.

Next year, the Japanese government will loosen the regulations slightly and set up a technical intern program, but there will still be time limits and difficult tests to pass.

Perhaps 2,000 people will come to Japan through the intern program, said Yasuhiro Yuki, an expert on elderly care at Shukutoku University. But we hear we will need 300,000 more caregivers in the next 10 years, he said. So I still dont think we will have enough.

That means aging caregivers will increasingly become the norm.

I can do this at least for two more years, said Fukuju, the 78-year-old, before she dashed out the door to renew her drivers license.



I think its good for me physically and mentally, so as long as I can keep working, I will, Kunio Odaira, 72, says. (Anna Fifield/The Washington Post)

Yuki Oda contributed to this report.

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President Trump has consistently argued that Russia, led by President Vladimir Putin, can be a strong ally instead of a strategic ally. (LEFT: Don Emmert/Agence France-Presse; RIGHT: Natalia Kolesnikova/Agence France-Presse via Getty Images)

Russias establishment expressed cautious hope for the first official phone call Saturday between President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, even after Trump played down the possibility that lifting sanctions against Moscow will be on the table.

Trumps call with Putin, which will take place at noon Eastern time and is slated to include Vice President Pence, is not the only conversation the U.S. president has scheduled with a foreign leader Saturday. The U.S. president is planning calls with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, French President Francois Hollande and Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, as he works to build personal relationships with traditional allies.

The Kremlin has welcomed Trumps promises to shore up the U.S.-Russian relationship, which has been badly strained by the Ukrainian crisis, the war in Syria and allegations that Putin oversaw an effort to tip the U.S. presidential election in Trumps favor.

On Saturday, Nikolai Patrushev, the influential head of the Russian Security Council, welcomed the first contact.

We will await the results, but I believe everything will be positive, Patrushev said Saturday, according to Russias Interfax news agency.

[Trump and Putin: Mutual admiration is headed toward reality]

From Moscows point of view, lifting the sanctions imposed by the Obama administration for interference in the presidential election and Russias intervention in Ukraine would be a good start, as would a reduction of NATOs military presence near Russias borders.

Washingtons European allies, meanwhile, have expressed concern over whether Trumps first moves with Russia would signal a reduction of the U.S. commitment to European security.

But Trump, speaking Friday at a White House news conference with British Prime Minister Theresa May, said that it is very early to discuss lifting sanctions on Russia. May also stated her commitment to keep the sanctions in place until the Minsk Agreement, a plan to end the conflict in Ukraine, have been implemented. And she added that she continues to argue that position inside the European Union.

Trumps first contact with Putin as president comes after months of speculation over the Kremlins role in the 2016 election  starting with Trumps frequent expressions of admiration for Putin and culminating in the assessment of the U.S. intelligence community that Russia interfered in the campaign on Trumps behalf.

Trump has also vehemently denied allegations that his positive view of Moscow resulted from business ties or blackmail by Russian intelligence, and he has sought to portray his upbeat words about Putin as a positive.

[Inside Trumps financial ties to Russia]

He has consistently argued that Russia can be a strong ally instead of a strategic ally, saying the two countries could cooperate on counterterrorism in general and rolling back the Islamic State in particular, as well as countering nuclear weapon proliferation. Trump has suggested that Washington can work with Moscow on the conflicts in Syria and Ukraine and that he might be ready to negotiate down NATOs strong defensive posture on Russias western border.

U.S. lawmakers from both parties, and others including Trump Cabinet picks, have raised alarms or at least questioned Trumps softer approach to Russia.

But on Friday, the president expressed tempered expectations.

As far as, again, Putin and Russia, I dont say good, bad or indifferent, Trump said. I dont know the gentleman. I hope we have a fantastic relationship. Thats possible. And its also possible we wont. We will see what happens. I will be representing the American people very, very strongly, very forcefully.

On a grander scale, the Kremlin seems to hope the Trump administration will relax what it sees as a policy of containment since the fall of the Soviet Union left the United States as the worlds sole superpower. In the new world order outlined by Putin, Russia would have greater influence in world affairs and, from Moscows point of view, feel more secure at home.

[Putin won 2016, but Russia has its limits as a superpower]

But Moscow has consistently cautioned about excessive optimism over what Trumps presidency will mean for Russia, and Putin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stayed on script Friday. One can hardly expect substantive contacts on the entire range of affairs from this call, he told reporters. Let us wait and see. Let us be patient.

Moscows establishment has welcomed Trump as a pragmatist who will not try to enforce American values on the rest of the world.

He is a businessman. He is a pragmatic person, Andrei Norkin, co-host of a popular Russian political talk show, said this week. I hope that his attitude to foreign policy will be like to some sort of business deal. People who will work with him will be telling him Mr. President, we are taking a risk here, and he will agree.

Karen DeYoung and Philip Rucker in Washington contributed to this report.

Read more:

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Trump lays groundwork to change U.S. role in the world

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A Syrian refugee from Aleppo stands next to her toddlers in a makeshift tent in a Syrian refugee camp in the town of Kab Elias in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley on June 20, 2016. (Patrick Baz/AFP via Getty Images)

Clutching Syrian drums and instruments made of spruce and walnut wood, 12 Syrian children filed nervously into a packed room in Lebanons Bekaa Valley this week. None had been musicians before they fled Syrias war, but after months of practice they were ready for their show.

The crowd of refugees stayed quiet as an Aleppo love song filled the air. But when it slipped from its verse to the chorus, suddenly a whole audience was singing.

Thats it, cried a woman from the front row, closing her eyes and smiling as she swayed. Im in Syria.



None of the refugees had expected to stay away this long. As the tendrils of war crept through their homeland in 2011, the families crossing earliest into Lebanon thought they would return in weeks. Months at most. Instead the fighting swallowed everything, smashing homes, dividing communities, and turning those months from seasons into years.

As President Trump suspended the resettlement of Syrian refugees, many of the more than 1 million displaced to Lebanon have found their resources stretched to a breaking point.

Syrian children play in a makeshift refugee camp on the outskirts of the town of Zahleh, background, in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley on June 20, 2016. (Patrick Baz/AFP via Getty Images)

Life here is harder than we could ever have imagined, said Om Ahmed, a widow from Aleppo, grabbing her son in a bear hug as he charged out of the performance room. If you saw our tent, you wouldnt believe wed left Syria to give our boys a better life.

[Trumps order to ban refugees and immigrants triggers fears around the world]

According to a recent United Nations assessment, conditions for Lebanons refugees have deteriorated for a sixth year in a row. Ninety percent of households are taking out loans to afford basics necessities, leaving the average family to survive on less than two meals a day.

When people first fled, they may have had some resources and were able to meet their needs, said Niamh Murnaghan, Lebanon country director for the Norwegian Refugee Council. As the crisis wore on, their money was used up.

In the Bekaa Valley, a sweeping expanse near Syrias western border, informal camps have become warrens of tents stacked on muddy ground. Many are kept neat as a pin, but no amount of care can save wooden boards from rotting or water from seeping through mattresses, blankets or anything else that touches the floor.

Our children are starting to believe we were born like this, and this is how life is meant to be, said Mounira Mohamed, 32, standing outside her tent in a small settlement near the town of Sadnayil. They ask us about Syria as if its a place on the television.

With a weak economy, a prewar population of just 4.5 million, and a history of accepting displaced Palestinians who later became a permanent fixture, Lebanon is ill-equipped and reluctant to offer long-term sanctuary to a new wave of refugees.

But as neighbor to one of the deadliest wars of the 21st century, it has found itself without a choice.

[Trump signs order temporarily halting admission of refugees]

If someone can tell me honestly that there will be security in my homeland, I would go back tomorrow, Mohamed said. I would go back faster than that.

She left Aleppo the day a barrel bomb smashed through the family home, killing her sister outright and leaving three orphans in her care. Now 8 years old, the youngest boy recalls Syria only in the memory of his mothers body in the rubble.

With limited opportunities to work, families can be heavily dependent on monthly cash payments from the U.N. refugee agency.

For Mohamed Ahmed, a 27-year-old former real estate agent from Syrias western city of Homs, this has meant a downward spiral into debt.

Every day I work to pay it off, but the children still need to eat. So we buy more vegetables on credit, take another loan for medical bills. And then theres another thing to pay off, he said, standing by the rack of cellphone chargers and bootleg Bruce Willis DVDs he now sells as one of two jobs.

Like many small businesses in the area, his shop allows the refugees to communicate daily with loved ones back home.

These calls keep Syria alive for us, said Mohamed, the mother from Aleppo, admitting that sometimes she did not know whether it was better to know or hide from what was happening to her relatives. We worry about them and they worry about us. No one has mental peace here, she said.

But everyday life also features memories of better times. In Sadnayil, a group of women stuffed pale-green zucchini with rice, bickering gently over whose recipe for the Syrian dish  known as mahshi  was the best. This technique came from my mother, one woman said with a shrug. How can you argue with that?

Relief groups are also bringing traditional music to camps and urban refugee communities, hoping that those they teach can someday earn a living through their new craft.

Until early 2015, most of the people we worked with seemed to think this was temporary, that the regime would fall one day, and then theyd go back. But that didnt happen, said Basma el-Husseiny, director of the charity responsible for the childrens concert, Action for Hope.

When they learn an instrument, they learn to stop feeling like victims. Theyre not waiting for help, they are contributing, she said.

As the performers darted around the organizations kitchen after their show, many were still humming the tune to their final song.

Did we sing this in Syria? one girl asked a woman nearby. Yes, love, came the reply. Yes we did.

Read more:

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Todays coverage from Post correspondents around the world

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A Syrian man walks down a road after a storm at a makeshift refugee camp near the village of Burayqah on the outskirts of southeastern Syrian border town of Quneitra on Jan. 28, 2017. (Mohamad Abazeed/Agence France-Presse via Getty Images)

After working as an interpreter for an American security company in Iraq and enduring years of background checks after applying for a U.S. visa, Labeeb Alis hopes of moving to the United States ended abruptly in Qatars international airport on Saturday, when officials prevented him from boarding a flight to Texas.

I have the visa in my passport, he said hours later, after he had stopped yelling at the airport staff and his rage had given way to despair and regret at having already sold his business and belongings in Iraq.

They have killed my dream, he said. They took it all away from me, in the last minutes.

President Trumps order on Friday to temporarily ban citizens of several Muslim countries from entering the United States sowed panic, confusion and anguish in airports across the globe Saturday, as nationals of the affected countries were either barred by airlines from traveling or detained upon arrival in the United States.

[Donald Trump destroyed my life, says barred Iraqi who worked for U.S.]

(McKenna Ewen/The Washington Post)

Those prevented from boarding U.S.-bound planes included Iraqis such as Ali, who said he had been granted a special immigration visa on Jan. 24 reserved for interpreters and translators who had worked for American forces in Iraq or Afghanistan. Others had fled war in Yemen or Syria or repression in Sudan or Iran. Taken together, Saturdays restrictions amounted to another cruel trial for people who had escaped conflict and overcame the hurdles to win coveted American visas, only to be turned back on what should have been their journeys final leg.

Countless others were left in a paralyzing limbo as they struggled to understand the presidents edict. They included Syrian students granted admission in American universities and facing the certainty that they would not be able to attend, and Iraqi or Iranian green-card holders traveling abroad and terrified at the possibility that they would not be able to return home.

[Are you, or someone you know, affected by President Trumps travel restrictions? Tell The Post.]

Sarah Amer, an Iraqi who lives in New York, had left her daughter at home and was visiting friends in Iraq when Trump signed the executive order. They cant just change the rules in one night, she said Saturday, amid confusion about whether green-card holders from Iraq could return to the United States.

These are peoples lives they are playing with, she said.

The executive order, titled Protecting the Nation from Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States, bars citizens from Syria, Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Sudan, Somalia and Libya, all predominantly Muslim nations, from entering the United States for the next 90 days. The order also indefinitely bars Syrian refugees from resettling in the United States and suspends the entry of all refugees from any country for 120 days.

The order followed Trumps repeated campaign pledges to restrict Muslim immigration to the United States. But the speed with which it was promulgated  a week after the president took office  still caught those most affected by surprise.

The confusion extended to airlines, which issued contradictory or vague rules about who would be allowed to fly. Lufthansa, the German carrier, released a statement saying it was obliged by law to strictly adhere to U.S. immigration requirements. But, reflecting the uncertainty over the American directive, the airline said only that citizens of the affected countries might not be accepted onboard U.S. flights.

Qatar Airways said that passengers would be allowed to travel only if they were permanent green-card holders or had visas that were exempt from the order.

Manel Vrijenhoek, a spokeswoman for KLM, the Dutch carrier, said, Its not 100 percent clear who is allowed in and who is not. The airline had barred seven passengers from traveling to the United States on Saturday, she said, after informing them that there is no use in flying to the U.S. because you will be rejected. You wont even be able to leave the plane.

She would not say which country the passengers had come from, only that they were from one of the seven countries named in the presidential order.

[As Trump bars Syrian refugees, life in their camps is getting harder]

Ali, the Iraqi citizen, said that two Syrians were also prevented from traveling on his flight to Texas. In Egypt, security officials stopped five Iraqis and a Yemeni national from boarding a flight to New York. There were unconfirmed reports that Iranian visitors as well as permanent green-card holders were restricted from traveling to the United States by officials at airports in Amsterdam, Abu Dhabi as well as Qatar, according to Hazhir Rahmandad, an Iranian American professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology who created a crowdsourced database to track Iranian travelers affected by the ban.

Although the details in the database could not be independently verified, the reports also suggested scores of Iranian visitors and green-card holders were also being turned away at several U.S. airports upon arrival.

The data and reports so far suggest there is confusion among border agents about how to treat the various categories of visa holders, Rahmandad said.

And there was consternation for Iranians who received the news while on the road. On Saturday, Ali Abdi, a 30-year-old Iranian green-card holder who studies at Yale University, was in transit in Dubai, on his way to Afghanistan to do research for his doctoral thesis, but he was suddenly worried that Trumps directive had left him stranded.

He had received reports from friends and acquaintances that green-card holders were subject to the ban. Abdi, a human rights activist who claimed asylum in the United States in 2011, said he would not be able to return to Iran if he was denied reentry to the United States.

Ill be stateless, he said. I left Iran eight years ago, and I have been looking for a home. I dont think of the U.S. as that kind of place anymore, he said.

[He risked his life working for the U.S. in Iraq. Now his visas no good.]

Abed Ayoub, the legal director of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee, an advocacy group that was counseling citizens from the affected countries, said the majority of the calls the group had received were from people overseas wondering whether they should even bother boarding a plane. They included an Iraqi woman who was flying to visit her family in the United States but at the last minute decided to go to Canada instead.

Calls had also come from citizens of countries that were not affected by the ban, including Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Morocco  part of what Ayoub called a broader chilling effect the presidential order had imposed across the Muslim world.

The group had advised the callers to double-check the latest rules before they begin their travels. That list can be expanded at any point, Ayoub said. You want to be aware before you board the plane.

When Fuad Sharef and his family landed at Cairo airport Saturday morning, they were clutching boarding passes for their connecting flight to New York and valid one-year visas to the United States. They were headed, eventually, to Nashville, to start a new life.

But soon after they entered the terminal, Egyptian airport authorities stopped them and ordered them to hand over their passports. They informed him that the American Embassy in Baghdad had sent a communique saying the family could no longer travel on to the United States.

They didnt explain why, said Sharef, 51, who spoke by phone because he and his family were inside the transit section of the terminal and not allowed to leave. But I knew this was because of the executive order signed by Donald Trump.

He was traveling with his wife, Arazoo, 41; his son Bnyad, 19; his daughter Yad, 17; and another daughter, Shad, 10.

Like many Iraqis wanting to resettle in the United States, Sharef took advantage of a program to assist Iraqis who worked for the U.S. government and American media in Iraq. Sharef had worked for Research Triangle Institute (RTI), a USAID subcontractor, for several years after the 2003 U.S.-led invasion, first as translator and later running a program that gave out microbusiness loans to Iraqis.

Working for the Americans was filled with perils, he said. He and other colleagues faced death threats  he knew co-workers who were kidnapped or killed. His work and background swayed the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, and after two years of vetting, they deemed him safe enough to be resettled in the United States.

[Trumps refugee ban would alienate allies for U.S. troops, experts say]

Sharef sold his house, his car and his remaining possessions. He pulled his three children out of their schools. He spent $5,000 for air tickets and quit his job as a supply-chain manager for a large pharmaceutical firm. He was confident he would find an opportunity in Nashville, with his three degrees, including an MBA.

Sharef admits that he took a gamble. When he heard of Trumps impending visa ban, he pushed their trip to the United States forward by a few days. The family is now scheduled to be placed on a flight back to Irbil on Sunday morning  after spending the night inside the airport terminal.

Donald Trump destroyed my life, said Sharef. How can he do this to people who risked their lives to help America?

Salim reported from Baghdad, and Raghavan reported from Cairo. Erin Cunningham in Istanbul, Louisa Loveluck in Beirut, Heba Farouk Mahfouz in Cairo and Heba Habib in Stockholm contributed to this report.

Read more:

Open doors, slamming gates: The tumultuous politics of U.S. immigration policy

Heres how the world is responding to Trumps ban on refugees, travelers from 7 Muslim nations

Anne Frank and her family were also denied entry as refugees to the U.S.

Egyptian court rejects government attempt to give islands to Saudi Arabia

Todays coverage from Post correspondents around the world

Like Washington Post World on Facebook and stay updated on foreign news
Judge Thomas Hardiman, federal judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 3rd Circuit, photographed on Nov. 17, 2016. (Cliff Owen/AP)

Thomas Michael Hardiman, a federal appeals court judge in Pittsburgh for the past 10 years, has not followed the typical path to the Supreme Court. He was the first in his family to graduate from college, did not attend an Ivy League law school and helped pay for his education by driving a taxi.

But Hardiman, 51, has a strongly conservative record and is reportedly the favorite of President Trumps sister, Judge Maryanne Trump Barry, who serves with him as a senior judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 3rd Circuit, based in Philadelphia, and has spoken to her brother about appointing him to the Supreme Court.

He has excellent credentials, not just academically but his career, said Carrie Severino, chief counsel and policy director of the conservative Judicial Crisis Network. But hes also got one of the most interesting personal stories. He worked his way up from a working-class background, he has a really strong volunteer ethic, and he has done a lot of pro bono work.

But liberal groups oppose Hardiman as a Supreme Court choice, highlighting his opinions that have protected gun owners and limited the ability of citizens to hold police accountable. In Second Amendment cases, he has adopted a view more expansive than what the Supreme Court has so far endorsed.

Hardiman grew up in Waltham, Mass., where his father ran a taxi and school-transportation business. As a teenager, Hardiman drove a cab part time, as he did later to help pay for law school in Washington. He graduated from the University of Notre Dame on an academic scholarship and then attended Georgetown University Law Center  not Harvard or Yale, like the current Supreme Court justices. After law school, Hardiman worked for two years at the law firm of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom in Washington.

Hardiman speaks Spanish fluently and studied in Mexico as an exchange student in college. In 2003, during his Senate confirmation hearing to become a federal judge, he described his work at the Ayuda immigration legal aid office in Washington as especially valuable.

I volunteered at Ayuda, in the office, on a regular basis, and I did everything from fingerprinting and interviewing persons of Hispanic origin who entered the country without inspection and who were seeking work-authorization permits, he recalled, adding, When I got my law degree and my license to practice here in the District of Columbia, I represented several immigrants who had entered without inspection.

From Washington, Hardiman moved to Pittsburgh in 1992 to practice law with a firm. He is a Republican; his wife, Lori Zappala Hardiman, comes from a prominent Democratic family in Pittsburgh.

Hardiman was appointed in 2003 by President George W. Bush to serve as a judge on the federal court for the Western District of Pennsylvania. Two years later, Bush appointed Hardiman to the 3rd Circuit, which handles cases from Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and the Virgin Islands. Hardiman was confirmed by the Senate 95 to 0.

As a judge, hes thoughtful, decent and tries hard to stay true to the contours of the law and facts when reaching a decision, said Charles Chip Becker, a partner at Kline & Specter in Philadelphia and president of the Third Circuit Bar Association who has argued before Hardiman several times. Personally, hes warm, friendly and funny.

Becker points to Hardimans opinion in Florence v. Board of Chosen Freeholders , a challenge to the strip-search policy in a New Jersey jail, to emphasize that Hardiman is known for seeing the varying sides of an issue.

In the case, Albert Florence was searched twice during the seven days he was in a New Jersey jail after being arrested on a warrant for a traffic violation that he had already paid. In the lawsuit Florence filed against the jail officials, he said the searches were unreasonable because he was being held for not paying a fine, which isnt a crime in the state.

Hardiman wrote the opinion, which reversed the district courts opinion in favor of Florence, and found that in balancing the jails security interests at the time of intake before arrestees enter the general population against the privacy interest of the inmates, the jail strip searches are reasonable.

That is a case about the balancing of issues, Becker said. Judge Hardiman didnt say its clearly, indisputably, without question that the strip searches are right. He said, on balance. There are issues both ways, but on balance, he thought those procedures were reasonable.

Civil libertarians were outraged by the decision, but the Supreme Court affirmed Hardimans ruling 5 to 4.

Hardiman wrote the majority opinion in a 2010 case, Kelly v. Borough of Carlisle, holding that there is no clearly established First Amendment right to record police officers during a traffic stop.

In a 2013 case, Drake v. Filko, the 3rd Circuit held in favor of New Jersey that it was constitutional for the state to require people to show they had a justifiable need for a gun before they could be issued a license to carry a handgun in public for self-defense. But Hardiman dissented, saying the law violated the Second Amendment and that the Second Amendment extends beyond the home.

The Supreme Court declined to review the law.

Conservative supporters, including Severino, cited the Borough of Carlisle and Drake cases, among others, to illustrate why they would be pleased if Trump chose Hardiman.

He has a long record of decisions that take the text of a law and the Constitution very seriously, Severino said. And that is just something that is just very important to finding someone who will carry on Justice [Antonin] Scalias legacy.
President Trump signed an order Friday to suspend admission of all refugees for 120 days while a new system is put in place to tighten vetting for those from predominantly Muslim countries and give preference to religious minorities. Trump said that the goal is to screen out radical Islamic terrorists and that priority for admission would be given to Christians.

We dont want them here, Trump said of terrorists in a signing ceremony at the Pentagon. We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people.

[Annotated: The Trump administrations executive order on refugees and immigrants]

In an interview with the Christian Broadcasting Network earlier Friday, Trump was asked whether he would prioritize persecuted Christians in the Middle East for admission as refugees, and he replied, Yes.

Theyve been horribly treated, he said. Do you know if you were a Christian in Syria it was impossible, at least very tough, to get into the United States? If you were a Muslim you could come in, but if you were a Christian it was almost impossible. And the reason that was so unfair  everybody was persecuted, in all fairness  but they were chopping off the heads of everybody, but more so the Christians. And I thought it was very, very unfair.

(The Washington Post)

So we are going to help them.

Since the beginning of the Syrian civil war and the rise of the Islamic State, many more Muslims than Christians have been killed or displaced because of the violence. A 2015 Washington Post poll found that 78 percent of Americans favored equal consideration for refugees regardless of religion.

The order was called Protecting the Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States and contained a temporary entry ban that would affect citizens of seven countries  Iraq, Iran, Syria, Yemen, Sudan, Libya and Somalia.

[These are peoples lives they are playing with: Worlds airports turn into limbo for many under Trump order]

The order calls for a halt to the flow of refugees from Syria until further notice and suspends all refugee admissions for 120 days until more analysis can determine which countries harbor the greatest threat. The annual intake of refugees for fiscal 2017 would also fall to 50,000 from more than 100,000 authorized now, according to the order.

The order also included a new policy that states and localities should have a say in determining whether refugees can resettle there. It calls for the secretary of homeland security to propose a way to make their involvement routine. Governors and mayors, mostly Republicans, have objected to refugees, once they are admitted to the country, being resettled in their jurisdictions, often in small and medium-size cities where the cost of living is lower than it is in big coastal cities.

Earlier drafts of the order called for the creation of safe zones to protect civilians in Syria  a feature that could require committing thousands of ground troops. But in the final order, there was no mention of such zones.

The downsizing of the refugee program, which had grown under the Obama administration, fulfills Trumps campaign pledge to start the extreme vetting of immigrants and refugees, even though the United States already conducts the most rigorous and drawn-out screening process in the world.

Syrians are subject to special attention because the Islamic State controls significant amounts of territory in their country. An estimated 11 million Syrians have fled their homes since the outbreak of fighting in 2011, with almost 5 million registered as refugees and more than 6 million internally displaced.

[3 important facts about how the U.S. resettles Syrian refugees]

U.S. vetting has changed significantly since the refugee program was suspended for several months after the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

After applicants register with the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees, that agency refers some of the most vulnerable to the United States. They include single mothers and their children, victims of violence and people with severe medical conditions requiring sophisticated treatment. Last year, the UNHCR referred more than 34,000 applicants, up from 16,000 in 2015 and 10,000 the year before that.

Syrians being considered for resettlement in the United States pass through a complex, multitiered background investigation. It involves biometric and database screening, personal interviews to look for inconsistencies in their stories, and security screenings by the National Counterterrorism Center, the FBI, the Department of Homeland Security and the State Department.

The process typically takes nine months to two years to complete.

In the fiscal year that ended in October, the United States admitted 12,500 Syrian refugees. An additional 3,500 were admitted for resettlement in the last three months of 2016. The overwhelming majority were women and children.

Now, with Trumps executive order, the flow grinds to an immediate halt. People who have sold their belongings in preparation for an imminent departure may not be allowed to board their flights to the United States. It was not immediately clear what would happen to those refugees already in the air when the order was signed.

[Donald Trump destroyed my life, says barred Iraqi who worked for U.S.]

Some refugees were finding their appointments with DHS officials canceled even before the order came into force , said Linda Hartke, head of the Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service. Unaccompanied refugee minors living in camps, helped by the group, now cannot fly to the United States to live with foster families, she said.

Refugee advocates slammed the order as cruel, while proponents of tighter immigration controls said it would protect Americans from radical Islamists who might try to sneak into the United States as refugees and launch an attack.

The ban on refugees will severely cripple the U.S. refugee program, leaving thousands who face life-threatening danger without humanitarian protection, said Greg Chen, director of advocacy for the American Immigration Lawyers Association. This policy does not make us safer. It shows weakness and withdraws our nation from the position as global leader when so many refugees urgently need protection.

[Trump redefines the enemy and 15 years of counterterrorism policy]

The International Rescue Committee called suspending refugee resettlement a harmful and hasty decision that would affect thousands of innocent people  mostly women and children  awaiting resettlement to the United States. America has the strongest, most successful resettlement program in the world, said David Miliband, head of the IRC. Certified by successive administrations, the U.S. resettlement program makes it harder to get to the United States as a refugee than any other route.

But skeptics of current vetting procedures question how effective they can be for refugees from a war-torn country such as Syria.

If were looking for the perfect way to deal with this, Im not sure it exists, said Ira Mehlman, a spokesman for the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR). What we need to do is, the best we can, balancing the competing obligations of protecting people in imminent peril and the safety of the American people.

The UNHCR has warned for several years that the world is undergoing a refugee and migration crisis of epic proportions, comparable only to the period after World War II. Some analysts caution that the decision to suspend refugee admissions to a country that defines itself as a nation of immigrants could lead other governments to follow suit and undermine U.S. credibility.

If you want ironclad guarantees, youd have to stop all immigration, business travelers and students, said David Martin, who worked on immigration and refugee policy at the State Department and DHS. If youre going to say youre not going to admit anybody to the United States, thats surrendering a key part of our heritage and blinding ourselves to genuine human suffering.

Read more:

Open doors, slamming gates: The tumultuous politics of U.S. immigration policy

Among veterans, raw responses to Trumps effort to block refugees and others

Are you, or someone you know, affected by President Trumps travel restrictions?
If the trade war is coming, how would Mexico fare?

That is the question that has preoccupied politicians and business leaders here since President Trump won the election and began pursuing his agenda to impose tariffs on goods made in Mexico and to build a wall along the border.

Trump has made clear his disdain for the North American Free Trade Agreement, which has governed commerce on the continent since 1994, and Mexican leaders have said that if the terms of the renegotiation did not further their interests, they might walk away, as well.

[Israels Netanyahu applauds Trumps plan for wall; Mexico not pleased]

A trade dispute could have painful repercussions here in Mexico. The country relies heavily on the U.S. market: 80 percent of its exports are sold there, and some economists predict that a trade war could lead to a recession and spur more migration north. Others note that unrest might break out as the country is already tightly wound amid sharp increases in gas prices, the peso devaluation and the unpopularity of its president, Enrique Pena Nieto.

(Bastien Inzaurralde/The Washington Post)

But before that happens, Mexico will sit at the negotiating table with the Trump administration. While the United States is the stronger power, Mexico is not without leverage if this dispute escalates. Top economic officials have already said that Mexico would mirror any additional taxes or tariffs that the United States imposes. Former officials have said that Mexico could also tax corporate profits from the many American companies with operations in Mexico.

Outside of the economic realm, Mexico also has plenty of cards to play in negotiations with Trump. Last year, Mexico deported nearly 150,000 migrants bound for the United States, most of them from Central America. Without this cooperation, officials predict that the number of migrants turning up at the U.S. border could double.

[President Trump and Mexican president speak by phone amid crisis in relations]

He has the Central American card, which he has mentioned, and its a very powerful card, former foreign minister Jorge Castaneda said of Pena Nieto.

After a slow start, Pena Nietos administration has ramped up drug war cooperation with the United States over the past four years. His administration has arrested many high-ranking cartel leaders, including twice capturing Joaquin El Chapo Guzman, the head of the Sinaloa cartel, who was extradited last week to New York. Mexican authorities help fight the heroin epidemic in the United States by going after local producers.

At the border, Mexican officials have been important partners on a variety of tasks, including gathering intelligence on drug cartels and facilitating food inspections, often working side by side with their U.S. counterparts. Mexico has also apprehended foreigners from other countries that pose a potential national security threat and has allowed U.S. authorities access to them. That cooperation could change.

If the United States begins mass deportations of Mexican immigrants, Mexico could also respond by checking the documents of the large populations of Americans who live in cities such as Ajijic or San Miguel de Allende.

Its evident that Mr. Trump wants vassals, not neighbors, said Sergio Aguayo, a political analyst and professor at the College of Mexico. Whats surprising is that he doesnt understand that Mexico has a good number of measures at its disposal.

He added: We depend on each other in many ways. More than Trump imagines.

[Mexican president says firm negotiations with Trump can protect Mexicans]

Many in Mexico seem to fear that foreign investment will dry up if the trade tensions escalate. Trumps warnings to U.S. companies not to ship jobs to Mexico already prompted Ford to cancel plans for a plant in Mexico and for Carrier, the Indiana-based company that makes heaters and air conditioners, to shift some jobs away from Mexico.

The auto industry in particular has been a bright spot for Mexico, and disruption in that manufacturing base could spell serious trouble.

The big dilemma is a lack of certainty or stability, said one person involved in the auto industry who spoke on the condition of anonymity to speak candidly. If the U.S. places tariffs on auto imports, then it is a real game-changer.

The person added: It seems as though we are now in a waiting game to see just how severe the situation becomes.

Without NAFTA, economists said, Mexico could lose some of the advantages that come with its lower-cost labor. With new tariffs on Mexican exports, we just become less attractive to foreign investors because that margin is too small, said Federico Estevez, political science professor at the Autonomous Technological Institute of Mexico.

On top of that, you have [Trump] bad-mouthing us all the time, Estevez said.

Economists have noted that the steep devaluation of the Mexican currency makes its exports more competitive around the world. And imposing tariffs on Mexican goods will raise the prices in U.S. stores. Mexico has free-trade agreements with dozens of other countries and could look to expand its relationships outside of the United States if that market turns inward.

Its very curious that he would want to punish the American consumer, Luis Foncerrada, the director of an economic studies institute in Mexico City. Mexico can compensate with exports to other countries, deepening those agreements.

That Trump seems not to be considering the ramifications of a trade war with Mexico might be the most worrisome aspect of the current crisis, said Fernando Turner Davila, secretary of the economy in the industrial state of Nuevo Leon.

This is worrying not only for Mexico but for the entire world, he said. They should be scared that there is no contemplation in the president of the most powerful country in the world.

Gabriela Martinez contributed to this report.

Read more:

Trump wants to ding imports from Mexico. What happens to stuff we send the other way?

After Trump pledges America first, the world responds with protests and dismay

Mexicans are already tired of Trump

Todays coverage from Post correspondents around the world

Like Washington Post World on Facebook and stay updated on foreign news
Bus drivers in the German state of Hesse have been on strike for two weeks. Arbitration started on Monday.

The bus drivers in Hesse carried out their strike with great determination because they viewed it as a principled struggle against intolerable living conditions. They have opened the eyes of the public to the conditions prevailing for bus drivers in Hesse and across the country: hourly wages netting 12 or less, highly responsible work during effective service times of up to fourteen hours without payment for long waiting times between drives, no benefits, barely any prospects for promotion, etc. These are all conditions that make it impossible to lead a normal life.

On the third day, Verdi was forced to call solidarity strikes by street car and bus drivers in Darmstadt, Gieen, and Hanau, who are also engaged in wage negotiations. The negotiations over the local transport (TV-N) wage contract with the local transport employers association also remain unresolved. These workers find themselves in a similar situation to the bus drivers and are also ready for a struggle.

The situation at daycare centers, nursing homes and hospitals and among waste disposal and airport workers is similar. There are intolerable working conditions everywhere.

One nurse recently wrote an open letter to Chancellor Angela Merkel in which she stated Patients have become economic factors, are case numbers and cost factors. They are not people anymore It [is] no longer possible to carry out humane work Due to inadequate finances and personnel, work time laws are not observed. The letter has been shared widely and rapidly on social media, since thousands of employees in public service work under similar conditions and think the time is ripe for a fundamental change.

The union leadership, however, sees the situation very differently.

From the very beginning, the service union Verdi raised very modest demands for the bus drivers strike: an increase of the hourly wage to 13.50, a shorteningbut not eliminationof unpaid waiting times between drives, as well as one more day vacation. It took care not to affront its negotiation partner, the Hessian State Bus Companies Association (LHO) and threaten its competitiveness.

As the 2014 local transport wage contract states in the very first sentence of its preamble: This wage contract serves to produce and maintain the competitiveness of the public local transport corporations.

The LHO rejected even Verdis modest demands, however. LHO CEO Volker Tuchan arrogantly told the Gieener Allgemeine Zeitung that they cannot be fulfilled and are not implementable.

Tuchan, who is a lawyer, would be incapable of driving a crowded articulated bus through a downtown area, to say nothing of doing this for a net wage of 13. But he announcesin words reverently repeated by the mediathat an improvement in the positions of the bus drivers is simply objectively impossible.

For seven months, since April 2016, Verdi has been in negotiations and has tolerated the absence of any wage contract. At the beginning of January, the union called for a two-day strikenot in order to carry out a serious workers struggle, but to serve as an outlet for the pent up anger of the bus drivers, so that they could let off steam.

The World Socialist Web Site warned that the main problems confronting the bus drivers are the Verdi union and the parties with which it is closely connectedthe SPD [Social Democratic Party], the Left Party and the Greens. The transformation of public service into a low wage sector would not have been possible without their active support. And now they see it as their task to intercept, isolate and strangle all opposition to this.  The strike is doomed to defeat if it remains under the control of Verdi.

This analysis was confirmed on Monday. After a three-week strike in which the workers struggle found broad support, Verdi hastily smothered the strike and initiated arbitration. As Verdi chief negotiator Jochen Koppel (also a member of the supervisory board of the Frankfurt Transport Company VGF) wrote: In this way it became clear that arbitration was the only way left.

Above all, arbitration serves the purpose of ending the workers struggle and preventing it from spreading. According to German labour law, the imposition of arbitration forbids workers from any further strikes. The Verdi announcement threateningly stated: Strikes are excluded for the duration of the arbitration.

Neither of the arbitration partners has experienced anything even remotely similar to the strenuous daily work of bus driving. On the contrary, they both belong to a layer of career politicians, union and association functionaries, who have for years planned and carried out the reorganization, deregulation and privatization of public service. They share responsibility for its transformation into a gigantic low-wage sector that serves the investment and profit interests of finance capital.

The arbitrator on the side of the union is 62-year-old Rudolf Hausmann (Social Democratic Party) from Baden-Wurttemberg. His career as a certified teacher lasted ten years. Thirty years ago, he was a functionary of the Public Services, Transport and Haulage Union, leader of the SPD, community and state parliamentary representative, and most recently a traffic expert for Verdi in Baden-Wurttemberg.

The second arbitrator, appointed by the LHO, is Volker Sparmann, the founder and long-time CEO of the Rhine-Main Transport Association (RMV). Today, as transport commissioner of the Hessian state government, Sparmann is a close collaborator of the Green Party transport minister Tarek Al-Wazir. He also sits on the board of supervisors of the Berlin Transport Company (BVG).

The earliest date on which arbitration could be concluded is February 5. However, the bus drivers can expect nothing positive. The most probable outcome is a foul compromise based on the last LHO offer, which prescribed a 13 hourly wage starting first in 2019. The arbitrators will undoubtedly propose a similar deal, well aware that any real real increase in wages would embolden other sections of workers in their struggles.

An advertising brochure of the Frankfurt Local Transport Society traffiQ describes how the bus system has been transformed since the end of the 1990s. It says that it was decided in 2001 that the state-owned VGF would be opened up to bids and split into five bundles compatible to the needs of small businesses. The transformation was smooth. Since 2004, year after year  one bundle after another has been privatised. In spite of demanding quality standards, there was an approximately 25 percent decrease in costs below the already reduced market price. A success all down the line, so to speak.

A success for which the bus drivers are still paying with their health and the quality of life of their families to this day.
During a visit to the Pentagon on Friday, President Donald Trump issued an executive action calling for stepped up violence in Syria and a vast expansion of the US military, including its nuclear arsenal, to prepare for war with near-peer competitorsa reference to nuclear-armed China and Russiaand regional challengers, such as Iran.

Im signing an executive action to begin a great rebuilding of the armed services of the United States, Trump said during the signing of the document, entitled Rebuilding the US Armed Forces.

During the visit, his first to the Pentagon, Trump signed a second order, Protecting the US from Terrorist Attacks by Foreign Nationals, that freezes visa and immigration applications from predominantly Muslim countries. The order threatens to block refugees from finding sanctuary, workers from taking jobs, students from attending school, and the unification of families (See, White House to issue executive order on safe zones in Syria, ban on Muslim immigrants and refugees)

The military order directs Defense Secretary James Mattis, who was sworn in at the ceremony, to complete a 30-day readiness review designed to prepare for the destruction of ISIS in Syria and Iraq, along with other forms of Islamic terror. Last week, Mattis was confirmed by the Senate in a 98-1 vote.

The order further instructs Mattis, in the words of the Washington Post, which obtained a copy of the order prior to its formal release, to examine how to carry out operations against unnamed near-peer competitors, a group which US officials typically identify as China and Russia. And it commands the Pentagon and the Office of Management and Budget to develop a military readiness emergency budget amendment that would increase military spending in the current year and increase the budget for 2018 and thereafterincreases to be offset by cuts to social spending.

The Presidential Memorandum, only three pages in length, is the blueprint for world war.

The order unmistakably threatens the use of nuclear weapons. Section 3 calls for a nuclear force to deter 21st century threats and, menacingly, to achieve Presidential objectives should deterrence fail.

It further calls for a plan to achieve readiness objectives for the use of the nuclear arsenal by 2022. This would include the modernization of the US nuclear force, a greatly expanded missile defense system, and increased emphasis on cyber warfare, which aims to cripple the retaliatory capacity of major adversaries by targeting their digital and telecommunication command structures prior to an American strike.

These actions follow on a move by the Obama administration to implement a $1 trillion upgrade in the countrys nuclear arsenal.

The executive action did not put a price tag on new military spending, but media speculation indicates that the figure could approach an additional $100 billion per year. Trumps military plans hew closely to a Heritage Foundation proposal that calls for the revamping of the nuclear force, the expansion of the Navy to 350 ships, the Air Force to 1,200 fighter and attack jets, the Marine Corps from 24 to 36 divisions, and the Army to more than a half a million soldiers.

The US currently spends approximately $600 billion on its military annuallyexcluding expenditures on the intelligence agencies and Veterans Administration more than the next nine largest military spenders combined. American defense spending accounts for, by itself, over one third of all global military spending, and it consumes the great majority of the federal discretionary budget.

Increases in military spending, coupled with Trumps promises to drastically lower taxes on corporations and the rich, must inevitably be paid for by cuts to education, health care and infrastructure, and by plundering Social Security and Medicare.

In securing the presidency, Trump capitalized on popular hostility toward Hillary Clintons interventionist stance on Syria and her saber-rattling against Russia. But his executive orders demand for escalation in Syria increases the likelihood of war with both regional power Iran and nuclear-armed Russia. Russia maintains its only significant foreign military base in Syria and has so far preserved the regime of Bashar al-Assad in a war for regime change orchestrated by the Obama administration.

Trumps order for a plan to destroy ISIS and radical Islam, which he declared in his Inaugural Address he would eradicate completely from the face of the Earth, will be drawn up by Mattis, responsible for numerous war crimes in the US occupation of Iraq, including the killing of untold thousands of civilians in the 2004 attack on Fallujah.

While the US now makes war on ISIS, it has funded and directed Al Qaeda affiliates in the regime change operations in Libya and Syria. Yet in remarks made last summer, prior to his nomination to defense secretary, Mattis claimed that, in his view, ISIS was nothing more than a stalking horse for Iran to extend its influence throughout the Middle East. It is widely rumored that Mattis left command in the Obama administration because he favored a more bellicose approach toward Iran.

Even before Trumps order became public, figures in and around the military speculated that Mattis would propose a dramatic escalation in Syria.

Scott Murray, a retired Air Force colonel involved with previous aerial bombardment of ISIS, told NPR that this could be done by lifting rules preventing the targeting of civilians.

Commanders could  re-examine limits on the number of civilian casualties that the military risks when it hits ISIL targets, NPR reported. Known as the non-combatant value, the rule restricts the number of civilians who can be put at risk in an airstrike.

Officers who spoke with the US government's overseas broadcaster Voice of America (VOA) complained of the Obama administration micro-approving actions in Syria. Every single person had to be approved, an unnamed Defense Department official said of a contingent of 203 Special Forces soldiers sent into Syria last year.

A high-ranking Army general, Lt. Gen. David Barno, told NPRs Morning Edition that, in lieu of local proxies, far more US soldiers will be deployed into Syria. I think President Trump might be looking for something with some quicker results and that could put some new options on the table, Barno said. He could elect to put American boots on the ground in larger numbers.

Currently most of the 6,000 US military personnel in the region are concentrated in Iraq, where, joined by Iraqi forces, they are subjecting the city of Mosul to a massive attack. Trumps order will likely lift the fiction that there are separate war theaters in the neighboring countries.

There was also speculation that the US could bolster the Kurdish Peoples Protection Units (YPG). This would heighten tensions with NATO ally Turkey, which views the YPG as a proxy of the Kurdish Workers Party (PKK), against which it has waged a nearly four-decade counterinsurgency war to prevent the emergence of an independent Kurdistan.

An escalation in Syria is also prefigured by Trumps anti-immigrant executive order, which, with the express aim of blocking refugees from fleeing the crisis, envisages the creation of safe zones run by the US militaryin blatant violation of Syrian sovereignty and international law. Under the plan, Syrias refugees would be placed in what would be, in all but name, US-administered camps, overseen by the US military.
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After Kellyanne Conway stated during an interview with ABC's This Week that President Donald Trump would not be releasing his tax returns, WikiLeaks took to Twitter on Sunday to encourage anyone with access to the documents to send them their way so that they could release them instead.

Trump Counselor Kellyanne Conway stated today that Trump will not release his tax returns. Send them to: https://t.co/cLRcuIiQXz so we can. - WikiLeaks (@wikileaks) January 22, 2017

Trump's breach of promise over the release of his tax returns is even more gratuitous than Clinton concealing her Goldman Sachs transcripts. - WikiLeaks (@wikileaks) January 22, 2017

"Trump Counselor Kellyanne Conway stated today that Trump will not release his tax returns," WikiLeaks tweeted. "Send them to: https:// wikileaks.org/#submit so we can."

"Trump's breach of promise over the release of his tax returns is even more gratuitous than Clinton concealing her Goldman Sachs transcripts," the organization continued in a separate tweet.

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While not the first time the organization has encouraged whistleblowers to submit Trump's tax returns for publication, WikiLeaks' Sunday tweets were perhaps their most concentrated efforts on the subject yet. And while at this time, it appears no one has taken the bait, Conway has since reversed her stance on the matter, stating via Twitter that Trump is under routine audit and will release his tax returns after the audit is complete - something the president repeatedly promised during his campaign despite the IRS giving him the go-ahead to release his tax returns immediately.

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On taxes, answers (& repeated questions) are same from campaign: POTUS is under audit and will not release until that is completed. #nonews - Kellyanne Conway (@KellyannePolls) January 23, 2017

WikeLeaks later retweeted this claim, noting that she had returned to Trump's original stance on the matter.

Trump counselor Kellyanne Conway now says that Trump will release tax returns after all (but only "after audit") https://t.co/nZmmq8klO7 - WikiLeaks (@wikileaks) January 24, 2017

Meanwhile, despite Trump and his team's repeated claims that the public does not care about his tax returns, a White House petition demanding the immediate release of the president's "full tax returns, with all information needed to verify emoluments clause compliance," has amassed nearly 300,000 signatures over the last three days, well over its original goal of 100,000.

You can find out more about that petition right here.

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Coinciding with the 40th anniversary of Swedens Goteborg Film Festival  though something really quite unusual happened to the 13th edition  Swedish film writer Jon Asp, a Variety collaborator, has authored a book, Draken och demonerna (The Dragon and the Demons), on Scandinavias most prominent festival. Variety asked him to drill down on five things which set Goteborg apart.

1.FESTIVAL NO. 13 SKIPPED

Goteborg turns 40. But in fact its 13th edition was skipped in 1991, due to superstition, the festival communicated at the time. There was, however, a more serious reason. I recently interviewed the former festival heads Gunnar Carlsson and Gunnar Bergdahl . They explained the real reason to advance as quickly as possible to the 15th edition in order to improve their chances of hosting the annual Swedish film gala, regularly taking place in Stockholm. But the operation failed. The 13th edition was finally held in January 2017 with previously never-made screenplays, including some of Ingmar Bergmans, performed at public spaces in the city center.

2.INGMAR BERGMAN: SO CLOSE AND YET.

Bergman agreed to be the honorary chairman of the festival in 1995  on the premise that he would never have to visit the festival. This says less about Goteborg. more about Bergman himself, who seldom left his island of Faro. In 2007, festival director Jannike Ahlund introduced the Ingmar Bergman International Debut Award, with Andrea Arnolds Red Road proving the first winner. Bergman was supposed to form part of the jury, voting from afar, but passed away later the same year on Faro, where the annual Bergman Week, closely connected to Goteborg, has been arranged since 2004.

3.GETTING BEHIND SCANDINAVIAN FILM

Down the years, the Goteborg Film Festival has become known as a steadfast promotor of Scandinavian cinema, irrespective of its quality. The Nordic Dragon Award, gathering eight contributions, was created in its first form in 1989, in order to encourage local films. In 2011, the festival raised the stakes considerably, offering the winner a prize sum of 1 million Swedish krona (). Lisa Aschans feature debut She Monkeys was its first laureate. In parallel, the Startsladden plaudit, awarded to one of eight Swedish shorts, has for a long time been one of the worlds most lucrative short film prizes.

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4.DEMOCRATIC PROGRAMMING/IMPORTANT MARKET PLAYER

In line with Berlin, Toronto and Rotterdam, Goteborg is known for its vast selection, in recent years surpassing 400 titles. A broad and democratic way of programming traditionally includes films from all continents. The parallel film mart, the Nordic Film Market, received a big boost after Tomas Alfredsons Let the Right One In opened the festival in 2008. Since then, Goteborg has also attracted key players in the international film industry, by offering an early look at upcoming Scandinavian title.

5.COLD WEATHER/WARM ATMOSPHERE

Although taking place in January-February  a very cold and gray period of the year, with snow, in in a best scenario Goteborg cuts a highly popular profile with a large, loyal audience, who very seldom walk out of screening and through thick and thin support the festival and its concept. That reflects in a way on Goteborgs status as Swedens everlasting second city, the less formal alternative to its administrative and cultural center of Stockholm.

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Reuters

(Reuters) -U.S. Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett on Friday again declined to block President Joe Biden's plan to cancel billions of dollars in student debt, this time in a challenge brought by two Indiana borrowers, even as a lower court considers whether to lift a freeze it imposed on the program in a different case. Barrett denied an emergency request by the Indiana borrowers, represented by a conservative legal group, to bar the U.S. Department of Education from implementing the Democratic president's plan to forgive debt held by qualified people who had taken loans to pay for college. Barrett on Oct. 20 denied a similar request by a Wisconsin taxpayers organization represented by another conservative legal group.
Franceville (Gabon) (AFP) - Sadio Mane's decisive penalty miss allowed Cameroon to knock fancied Senegal out of the Africa Cup of Nations in the quarter-finals on Saturday and join Burkina Faso in the last four.

Cameroon beat Senegal 5-4 on penalties after a goalless 120 minutes in Franceville, southern Gabon, in the day's second game following a 2-0 win for Burkina Faso against Tunisia in Libreville earlier.

Liverpool star Mane was the only player to miss from the spot in the shoot-out in Franceville, with Cameroon goalkeeper Fabrice Ondoa saving his effort from 12 yards.

Vincent Aboubakar then stepped up to score and take the Indomitable Lions through to the last four at the expense of a Senegal side who were one of the favourites coming into the tournament.

Cameroon, who also beat Senegal on penalties in the final of the 2002 Cup of Nations, can now look forward to a semi-final tie against either DR Congo or Ghana in Franceville on Thursday.

It is the first time Cameroon have reached the last four since 2008, when they lost to Egypt in the final in Ghana.

"We have the possibility to write a beautiful page in our history and we do not want to stop here," Cameroon captain Benjamin Moukandjo told Canal Plus Afrique.

"We're going one game at a time. We have a semi-final to play, and whoever it is against we hope it will be as beautiful as this."

Senegal had enjoyed the better of the chances in normal time, but could not find a way past Ondoa, who was in inspired form.

"Our performance was good. We tried to play football against a side who were well organised and got men behind the ball," said the Senegal coach Aliou Cisse, who had missed the crucial penalty when the Lions of Teranga lost the 2002 final.

"We know about penalties. It comes down to luck. They won it and I wish them good luck."

Senegal's elimination means the three men who made up the podium for the 2016 African Footballer of the Year award have all been knocked out of the Cup of Nations, with Mane joining Algeria's Riyad Mahrez and Gabon's Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in heading for the exit.

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- Supersub Bance -

Nobody had expected to see Cameroon go far after their build-up to the tournament had been marred by the refusal of several key players to accept call-ups.

Few tipped Burkina Faso to go far either, but the 2013 runners-up secured their place in the last four by getting the better of Tunisia with two late goals.

The Stallions had looked the more dangerous side throughout but it took the late introduction of Aristide Bance to make the difference.

Portuguese coach Paulo Duarte introduced the giant striker on 76 minutes as a tight, physical last-eight clash seemed destined for extra time.

Within five minutes Bance broke the deadlock in front of a sparse crowd in Libreville by slamming the ball into the net after a free-kick was pushed into his path just outside the box.

Prejuce Nakoulma doubled the lead on 84 minutes through a breakaway goal and Burkina Faso will now meet Egypt or Morocco at the same venue on Wednesday.

"We produced high-level football," said Duarte. "There was quality and confidence in our performance.

"The dream is to do better than in 2013, but it will not be easy."

Tunisia coach Henryk Kasperczak said: "We did not show our qualities. We did not possess the rage to win.

"We were a little tired, the physical freshness was not perfect, we did not play quickly enough when attacking."

DR Congo and 2015 runners-up Ghana meet in Oyem on Sunday at 1600 GMT.

The last quarter-final, between Herve Renard's Morocco and their north African rivals Egypt, is in Port-Gentil at 1900 GMT.
Tehran (AFP) - Foreign airlines are barring Iranians from travelling to the United States following President Donald Trump's temporary order barring visas for seven Muslim countries, travel agents in Tehran said Saturday.

Two agencies told AFP they had been instructed by Etihad Airways, Emirates and Turkish Airlines not to sell US tickets or allow Iranians holding American visas to board US-bound flights.

The news comes after Trump imposed tough new controls on travellers from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

The new US president signed a sweeping executive order on Friday to suspend refugee arrivals and impose tough controls on travellers from the seven countries.

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Iran's Aviation Organisation said have not issued any new instructions to Iranian airlines, which do not have direct flights to the Unites States in the absence of diplomatic ties between the two countries.

With more than a million Iranians living in the United States, many families are concerned about the implications of Trump's visa ban.

An Iranian studying in California who was visiting home said Saturday that she could not return because her ticket had been cancelled under the new restrictions.

"I had a ticket for Turkish Airlines on February 4, but it has been cancelled," the girl who did not wish to be identified told AFP.

"I've informed the university officials by mail and they were surprised. They are going to send me a letter so I can try fly from Europe."

On Thursday, one of Iran's most popular actresses said she would boycott next month's Academy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles in protest at the US ban.

"Trump's visa ban for Iranians is racist. Whether this will include a cultural event or not, I won't attend the #AcademyAwards 2017," tweeted Taraneh Alidoosti, who stars in the Oscar-nominated "The Salesman".
By Ernest Scheyder, Catherine Ngai and Terray Sylvester (Reuters) - When U.S. President Donald Trump signed orders to revive two controversial energy pipeline projects this week, he pledged to require new pipelines to use American-made steel, a gesture to workers in the hard-hit industry who helped propel him to power. But U.S. steelmakers will receive negligible benefit from the multi-billion dollar Keystone XL project, one of the two projects Trump ordered to proceed, because they have limited ability to meet the stringent materials requirements for the TransCanada line. Economists said Trump's order has many loopholes to enforcement and could violate international trade law. Meanwhile, in the quiet prairie town of Gascoyne, North Dakota, deer wander among gleaming stacks of steel tubing intended for the Keystone pipeline. The company bought the material years ago when the U.S. debate was raging over whether the project should go ahead. TransCanada tried for more than five years to build the 1,179-mile (1,897 km) pipeline, until then-President Barack Obama rejected it in 2015. Since the materials were already purchased for Keystone, Trump's move to revive the project should not result in new large steel orders. The profits for manufacturing that steel were booked by companies with corporate headquarters in Russia, India and Italy. Those companies own the steel mills in the United States that made about half of the pipeline for the $8 billion project. Much of that steel has sat exposed to the elements in several giant stockyards along the pipeline's route for more than two years. Analysts said some of it will need to be replaced. But that is unlikely to come from U.S. producers, such as U.S. Steel, AK Steel or Steel Dynamics, analysts and traders said, because of the specialized steel required for the big-ticket project. Trump's directive on using U.S.-made steel is likely also inconsistent with long-standing World Trade Organization rules that require imported products to be given the same treatment as domestically produced goods. The directive could well become the target of a challenge under WTO rules. Trump's order also runs counter to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), a pact that he said he wants to renegotiate but one that nevertheless remains in effect. 'NICE GESTURE' TransCanada resubmitted its application Keystone project on Thursday, two days after Trump signed the orders. The line is designed to link existing pipeline networks in Canada and the United States to bring crude from Alberta and North Dakota to refineries in Illinois en route to the Gulf of Mexico. Around Gascoyne where the tubing has sat idle in a TransCanada yard, there is little sign among residents of the fierce opposition that stopped Keystone and led to the delay of the other controversial pipeline that Trump pushed forward on Tuesday - the Dakota Access Pipeline. But townspeople were skeptical of Trump's made-in-America order. "It's a nice gesture, but you can't renegotiate when the pipe's been bought already," said Dan Peterson, 47, a contractor from nearby Bowman, North Dakota, who supports the project. About half of the pipe was forged in Arkansas, at a plant owned by India's Welspun. About a quarter came from a Russian-owned plant in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan, and the rest came from Italy and India. Alberta-based TransCanada expects to use roughly 821,000 tons of pipe in Canada and 660,000 tons in the United States for the project. TransCanada representatives did not return a request for comment. Trump's order pertains only to sections of pipelines built in the United States, and it said the directive should be followed to the "maximum extent" possible, which gives the administration wiggle room. Steel manufacturers and analysts said that TransCanada's stringent requirements for the pipeline, including thickness and pressure requirements, already keeps most U.S.-based steelmakers out, given current forging and manufacturing processes. That includes Nucor and Steel Dynamics, which can make pipeline that is thick enough but may not meet all the pressure parameters. For the main trunk line, experts say that Keystone requires welded line pipe between 36 inches to 42 inches (91 to 107 cm) in diameter. Foreign-owned steelmakers with U.S. operations, such as India's Welspun and JSW as well as Russia's Evraz, are best able to produce the pipe. To be sure, U.S. steelmakers have a large part of their business in producing pipe and tube for the oil and gas industry. But, analysts said that to meet Keystone's requirements, they will need to reinvest and retrofit their plants to reorient production. It's not clear if other pipeline projects would have the same standards as Keystone. "There are people who make (this type of) steel pipe in the U.S., but they're mostly Indian and Russian" companies, said Charles Bradford, an analyst at New York-based Bradford Research. (Reporting by Ernest Scheyder in Houston and Catherine Ngai in New York; Additional reporting by Terray Sylvester in Gascoyne, North Dakota; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)
Apple has joined the Partnership on AI to Benefit People and Society, and will work alongside other tech giants on artificial intelligence initiatives, the partnership announced Friday.

Apple previously worked with Partnership on AI, but Fridays announcement makes the companys membership official, as it joined as a founding member. Apple has not yet announced the partnership.

Partnership on AI, a nonprofit, was launched by Amazon, Facebook, Google, IBM, and Microsoft in September 2016. The organization works to address opportunities and challenges with AI technologies to benefit people and society. Members roles are to conduct research, recommend best practices and publish findings (which might explain why six researchers from Apple recently published a research paper related to AI.)

Apples membership shows the company is committed to the AI race. It also could be a sign the company will soon reveal more of its work related to artificial intelligence. Among Apples AI work could be an enhanced version of Siri for its iPhone 8 launch, in response to the high popularity of other AI devices, such as Amazons Alexa and Google Assistant. In an effort to revamp Siri, Apple acquired Australian start-up Turi last August, which lets developers create apps with machine learning and artificial intelligence capabilities.

New Board Members

Partnership on AI also announced six new board members. The individuals are Dario Amodei (OpenAI), Subbarao Kambhampati (Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence & ASU), Deirdre Mulligan (UC Berkeley), Carol Rose (American Civil Liberties Union), Eric Sears (MacArthur Foundation) and Jason Furman (Peterson Institute of International Economics).

The members will join those on the Board of Trustees, which includes Siri co-founder and CTO Tom Gruber, as well as Greg Corrado (Google/DeepMind), Ralf Herbrich (Amazon), Eric Horvitz (Microsoft), Yann Lecun (Facebook) and Francesca Rossi (IBM).

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The first meeting for board members will be on Feb. 3 in San Francisco.

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By Paul Carsten ABUJA (Reuters) - Around 1.8 million people are at risk of starvation in northeast Nigeria, victims of an Islamist insurgency that is undermining efforts by the World Food Programme (WFP) to ferry in aid, it said on Friday. The Boko Haram insurgency has killed more than 15,000 people since 2009 and forced some two million from their homes. The Nigerian army, backed by neighbours, has retaken most areas held by the group, but it has recently stepped up attacks and suicide bombings. Aid groups entering the region in recent months have warned that shortages of food, shelter and medical care were threatening refugees with widespread famine and disease. WFP executive director Ertharin Cousin said in all an estimated 4.4 million people were in need of food assistance in the northeast, though the full scale of the crisis was still unknown as some areas remained unreachable. "The challenge is that there are areas in (Boko Haram heartland) Borno state in particular that are still inaccessible, and we have no idea of the food security situation (there)," she told Reuters. Even in parts of the northeast held and defended by the army, Boko Haram attacks were jeopardising aid programmes, Cousin said. In January, the WFP failed to reach some 300,000 people of the 1.3 million targeted because of bombings of camps for internally displaced people and attacks on markets. The executive director told reporters a colleague who visited areas recently recaptured from Boko Haram compared the state of women and children there to images of people liberated from Auschwitz and other Nazi concentration camps in World War II. Friday marks International Holocaust Remembrance Day. "I am imploring the international community to continue to provide us with the support that is necessary," said Cousin. Ending the insurgency will require a political as well as a military solution, Cousin told Reuters, adding: "Until we resolve those issues the humanitarian situation will not improve to a level that allows us to reach all of those in need." The government has told aid agencies it expects the conflict to end in six months, she said. There have been no signs that Nigeria's government has engaged with Boko Haram, which seeks to establish an Islamic caliphate in the northeast, on a political level. (editing by John Stonestreet)
Washington (AFP) - US authorities wasted no time implementing Donald Trump's order halting Muslim arrivals, detaining travelers arriving at American airports within hours of the US president signing the tough new measures, media reports said Saturday.

The New York Times reported that airport officials as early as Friday night began detaining travelers, some of whom already had been aboard their flights when Trump announced his executive order closing America's borders to refugees.

Trump's order suspends entry of all refugees to the United States for 120 days and indefinitely halts the admission of refugees from Syria.

It also bans entry into the United States from travelers from seven predominantly Muslim countries -- Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen -- for 90 days.

The order paved the way for what Trump has pledged will be "extreme vetting" of visa applicants' backgrounds -- with some exceptions made for members of "religious minorities," a caveat many see as a way to apply favorable treatment to Christians from majority Muslim states.

The move makes good on one of Trump's most controversial campaign promises, when he vowed to stem immigration from various Muslim countries which he insists pose a terror threat to the United States, and to subject future arrivals to "extreme vetting."

The Times said the detentions have been met with early legal challenges, as lawyers representing two Iraqi refugees being held at New York's John F. Kennedy Airport filed a court appeal for their release, alleging that the two travelers were being unlawfully detained.
Another long-term space simulation is underway at the Mauna Loa volcano in Hawaii, where six crewmembers entered a small, isolated dome Jan. 19 as a part of the HI-SEAS mission.

This is the fifth iteration of HI-SEAS, also known as the Hawai'i Space Exploration Analog and Simulation. NASA is funding this mission and a sixth mission, scheduled for 2018, for $1 million.

For the next eight months, crewmembers will simulate a mission on a planetary surface similar to Mars'. The simulation will include a 20-minute delay in communication, because it takes time to send messages at light speed from Earth to Mars, and they will have limited contact with the outside world  in previous missions, water was delivered every six weeks and supply "missions" every few months.

The crew will also be expected to follow many protocols simulating life in space. Their routines will include eating food from shelf-stable ingredients, performing scientific research, doing daily exercise, maintaining equipment and tracking use of food, power and water. They'll have to put on spacesuits to leave the dome.

Hawaii's Mauna Loa provides the perfect environment for such a simulation, mission team members said.

"This is the best and most obvious place to do this research, both because of the physicality  as you can see, it looks like we're on Mars  but also because of the range of expertise available at the University of Hawaii," Kim Binsted, HI-SEAS principal investigator and a professor at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, said in a statement.

HI-SEAS' fourth iteration finished a one-year mission last year, putting the program in a small group of space analogs that have kept crews in isolation for that long. Other examples include the European Space Agency's Mars500 mission and the Concordia Research Station in Antarctica.

Coincidentally, NASA astronaut Scott Kelly and Russian cosmonaut Mikhail Kornienko also finished a nearly one-year mission in space in March 2016, joining just a handful of astronauts who have stayed in space consecutively for 300 days or longer. A typical space station mission is five or six months long.

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Follow Elizabeth Howell @howellspace, or Space.com @Spacedotcom. We're also on Facebook and Google+. Original article on Space.com.

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Today in 5 Lines

In a joint press conference with British Prime Minister Theresa May, President Trump emphasized the special relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom, and called the countrys decision to leave the European Union a fantastic thing. Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto and Trump spoke by phone amid tensions over the construction of a wall on the southern border. At the Pentagon, Trump signed an executive order implementing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the country after General James Mattis was sworn in as secretary of defense. Vice President Mike Pence became the highest-ranking U.S. official to address rally-goers at the anti-abortion March for Life in Washington, D.C., telling them life is winning. In her first day at the United Nations headquarters, Nikki Haley, the new U.S. ambassador to the UN, warned: For those who dont have our backs, were taking names."

Recommended: How Trumps Executive Orders Could Set America Back 70 Years

Today on The Atlantic

What Do the Mercers Want?: Robert and Rebekah Mercer, the high-profile, father-daughter duo of Republican megadonors, both hate the Clintons. But beyond that, its not clear what their motives are behind supporting Trump. (Rosie Gray)

Pragmatic, Not Ideological: Donald Trump pledged to deport the estimated 11 million undocumented immigrants in the United States during his presidential campaign. But a recently released study found that the majority of Americansin both red and blue statesdo not prefer deportation as a means of solving the countrys illegal immigration problem. (Robert P. Jones)

America, Interrupted: President Trumps recent executive orders are setting the country back to a time of closed borders, limited trade, intolerance to diversity, arms races, and a go-it-alone national race to the bottom. Heres why. (Jeremi Suri)

Follow stories throughout the day with our Politics & Policy portal.

Snapshot

Anti-abortion demonstrators arrive on Capitol Hill in Washington during the March for Life. J. Scott Applewhite / AP

Recommended: What Does the Billionaire Family Backing Donald Trump Really Want?

What Were Reading

Trumps First Week: The president made several provocative and unorthodox moves during his first few days in office. Heres a guide to his first actions as president, rated according to their immediate impact and significance for the future. (Michael Grunwald, Politico)

Republicans Are Worried: An audio recording obtained by The Washington Post reveals several GOP lawmakers concerns with the rapid push to repeal Obamacare without a replacement at the ready. (Mike DeBonis)

A Web of Wealth: Betsy DeVos, the nominee for education secretary, and her husband, Dick DeVos, are billionaires whose vast wealth touches nearly every state in the union, from Hawaiian forests to Texan oil towns. BuzzFeed highlights a few of the familys financial holdings. (Molly Hensley-Clancy)

Meet Neil Gorsuch: The appellate court judge is reportedly a leading contender to be Donald Trumps Supreme Court nominee. Newsweek takes a look at where Gorsuch stands on key legal issues. (Michele Gorman)

I Wish Hed Stop: In Iowa, Trump supporters are excited that the president is jumping right on so many of his campaign promises. But many are frustrated that he still seems so obsessed with his popularityand Twitter. (Thomas Beaumont, Associated Press)

Visualized

Why Dont Democrats Take Religion Seriously?: If Democrats want to be the party of inclusion, they cant just talk about race and gender, Emma Green explains. They have to start speaking to religious voters. (The Atlantic)

Recommended: The Narcissist

Question of the Week

On Monday, President Trump issued a proclamation declaring January 20the day of his inaugurationNational Day of Patriotic Devotion. In 2009, former President Obama declared his own inauguration to be a Day of Renewal and Reconciliation.

So this week, we asked what youd call your Inauguration Day if you were elected president. We got dozens of thoughtfuland hilariousresponses. Here are some of our favorites:

Sue R. suggested a Day of Reflection, Compassion, and Service.

Dan proposed a National Day of Pinot Noir, French Bread, and Salami.

Victoria Medaglia wants a National Dance in the Streets With Men in Kilts Day.

Several readers went with National Ice Cream for Everybody Day.

And Bert Woodall said he would call his Inauguration Day simply Martha.

Visit our Notes section for more great responses, and stay tuned for next weeks Question of the Week contest.

-Written by Elaine Godfrey (@elainejgodfrey) and Candice Norwood (@cjnorwoodwrites)

Read more from The Atlantic:

This article was originally published on The Atlantic.
Ankara (AFP) - Britain's BAE Systems on Saturday signed a deal with Turkey's national aerospace firm to develop a new generation of Turkish fighter jets, the British government said in a statement.

Under the deal signed in Ankara during a visit by British Prime Minister Theresa May, BAE Systems and state-owned Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) will establish a partnership for the development of the TF-X fighter jet.

Commenting on the agreement, May said it indicated that "Britain is a great, global, trading nation and that we are open for business", after the Brexit vote saw the country seeking new partners for trade.

"It marks the start of a new and deeper trading relationship with Turkey and will potentially secure British and Turkish jobs and prosperity for decades to come," May added.

The deal is a so-called Heads of Agreement which is non-binding and will only be obligatory once formal contracts are signed.

The initial phase is worth over 100 million pounds (117 million euros), Downing Street said.

But the agreement can pave the way for further deals potentially worth billions of pounds over a 20-year lifespan, May's spokeswoman told reporters.

Currently the Turkish air force flies F-16s, some of which were used to bomb parliament by rogue elements in the military during the attempted overthrow of Erdogan last year.

Ankara has long mooted the plan to build its own homegrown fighter jets.

After a controversial visit to the United States meeting President Donald Trump, the spokeswoman stressed that it was in the UK's national interest to engage with Turkey on trade and defence despite criticism at home and abroad of May's cosying up to Erdogan.

"Our defence and security cooperation is justified and important because Turkey is an important ally in NATO," the spokeswoman added.

BAE Systems chief executive Ian King said the agreement confirmed the continued work on the aircraft's design and development in an "exciting next step in relations between both Turkey and the UK with the cooperation between BAE Systems and TAI".

The Turkish army is heavily involved in multiple military operations and frequently launches air strikes on Kurdish militant targets in northern Iraq and southeast Turkey, and more recently the Islamic State extremist group in northern Syria.
The mayor of Berlin  a city known for its own infamously divisive wall  sent a message on Friday to President Donald Trump, imploring him not to build a wall on Mexicos border.

Berlin  the city which stands for the separation of Europe as well as the freedom of Europe  cannot watch silently as another country plans to build a wall, Berlin Mayor Michael Muller said in a statement Friday, according to a translation by the Washington Post.

We cannot simply accept that all our historic experiences are being thrown into disarray by the ones we have to thank most for our freedom: the Americans. I call on the U.S. President to not go down this wrong track of isolation and exclusion.

Mullers statement made reference to former U.S. President Ronald Reagan, who in 1987 famously addressed Soviet Union leader Mikhail Gorbachev with the words, Mr. Gorbachev: Tear down this wall. The Berlin Wall, which divided East and West Germany during the Cold War, finally fell on Nov. 9, 1989.

For that reason I say: Dear Mr. President, dont build this wall, Muller said Friday, as Trump pushed forward with plans for the Mexican border wall that was a central promise of his campaign.
A Syrian family of pastry chefs, the Sakkas, once delighted the people of Homs with their sugar-soaked Levantine delicacies, until a rain of bombs turned them into refugees.

Now, after a four-year odyssey, they have reopened the family's sweet-tooth haven in Berlin, a baklava shop called the "Damaskus Konditorei".

In a bittersweet tale of war, loss, exile and rebuilding, the family was granted asylum in Germany and, against the odds, opened their new patisserie last summer.

"Even though it's very difficult to find a job in Germany, we said, 'let's go and try!'" said Tamem, 42, the youngest of three brothers.

Four years have passed since the Sakkas fled Homs, Syria's third biggest city, which became a rebel bastion early in the war that started in 2011.

Suffocated by a long army siege, the city saw fierce fighting that pushed many of its residents to leave everything behind and run.

The family of 16 -- the three brothers, Salim, Rami and Tamem al-Sakka, with their parents, wives and children -- first fled to Lebanon, then Egypt.

They made it to Berlin over two years ago with hopes for a better life, like more than 600,000 fellow Syrians who have gained safe haven in Germany.

- Master artisans -

In their flight, all they could carry was the know-how passed down by their father, Suleiman, 83, who founded the Homs pastry shop more than 40 years ago.

The sweet fruits of their labour are on mouth-watering display on large metal trays -- pyramids of small green nut cakes, covered with shredded pistachio and moistened with rose water.

The aromas of orange blossom and almond waft through the room, the eye lingers on shredded pastry bird nests called esh al-bulbul, and maamoul shortbread filled with dates, pistachios or walnuts.

Before Syria's deluge of fire and death, the country was known throughout the Middle East for the refinement of its sweets.

"This is due to the quality of raw materials, such as Aleppo pistachios," explains French-Syrian pastry maker Myriam Sabet, who runs the Maison Aleph patisserie in Paris.

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"And to the ancestral know-how of the master artisans who jealously guard their manufacturing secrets."

In Syria, different cities -- whose names now evoke the horrors of war and suffering -- have long been associated with their regional specialities.

While the capital Damascus loves barazek honey pistachio and sesame cookies, the commercial centre of Aleppo was known to have a weakness for nougats and almond.

The jewels of central Homs and Hama are sweet cheese rolls known as halawet el-jibn.

"At first my brother said to me, 'Let's not make this dessert, the Germans won't like it, it's too heavy for a pastry," said Tamem.

But he was proved wrong and now says Berliners can't get enough of his sugar treats.

- 'Music, language, pastry' -

During a recent visit, most customers were Syrians eager for a taste of home, a cheese pastry called knafeh soaked in sticky syrup.

Some who have lost everything say they feel taken back to peacetime Syria, the memory of afternoons in the shade of bougainvillea.

"Only music, language and pastry can transport you to these pleasant memories, it's universal," smiled Sabet.

Many German customers, who gingerly peek into the shop, go on to take their first steps on a new culinary journey of discovery.

"When they come in here, they watch, sometimes they seem afraid!", laughed Tamem.

"What they like is the baklava", he added, pointing to Syria's signature pastry made of layers of filo, stuffed with chopped nuts and held together with honey.

The artisan's eyes grow misty when he thinks about Syrian pistachios -- "the best in the world" -- which he can no longer grate to produce his delicacies.

The Sakkas now get their nuts from Turkey, and their cheese from Italy.

"In Homs, our shop employed 40 people, the pastry was laid out on 150 square metres (1,614 square feet) on two floors, and on top of that we had a big workshop", Tamem recalled with nostalgia.

The more modest Damaskus Konditorei is located on a Berlin avenue nicknamed the capital's "Arab street" -- a long way from the 13th century souks of Homs, filled with the scent of spices, perfumes and pastries.

For now, home is just a sweet memory for the Sakkas.






Rome (AFP) - Italy's former prime minister Silvio Berlusconi faces a new trial for alleged witness tampering and pay-offs in the so-called "Ruby" case and his notorious "bunga bunga" sex parties, reports said Saturday.

Officials who spoke to reporters said a judge had set April 5 as the date for fresh proceedings against the 80-year-old tycoon who prosecutors suspect bought the silence of call girls and others.

The charges stem from Berlusconi's previous trial for allegedly paying for sex with young women, the best-known being an exotic dancer nicknamed Ruby the Heart Stealer, who was under 18 at the time.

Berlusconi was initially convicted and sentenced to seven years in jail for soliciting minors for prostitution and abusing his power.

But he was cleared in 2015 following an appeal. The judge said he could not have known that Ruby -- real name Karima El-Mahroug -- was a minor.

The new trial will focus on accusation that the ex-premier paid more than 10 million euros ($10.7-million) between 2011 and 2015, in cash, gifts, cars, housing, payment of bills and medical expenses, to guests at his Arcore residence near Milan, to testify in his favour.

He said in his defence that he was simply being generous. His lawyer, Federico Cecconi, attacked the notion that this should be a crime.

"There is a concrete chance of a judge agreeing that an offence of generosity has been committed," Cecconi said sardonically.

El-Mahroug was allegedly showered with gifts worth seven million euros.

She testified that she did not have sex with Berlusconi, claiming she was lying when recorded on a wiretap telling friends the contrary.

Frustrated prosecutors emerged from that trial determined to prove that many witnesses had lied under oath after being bought off.

Billionaire businessman Berlusconi has beaten numerous criminal charges over the years with his only conviction to date being one for corporate tax fraud, which led to him being kicked out of parliament.

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The new trial follows the opening of proceedings against around 20 people accused of conspiring to protect the former prime minister. That case opened this month but was adjourned to July 3 for legal reasons.

Even if convicted there is little chance of Berlusconi ending up behind bars because of Italy's restrictions on penal sanctions against the elderly.

Berlusconi remains the leader of his Forza Italia party but, with its fortunes on the decline, his political influence has waned.
McDonalds announcement that it will briefly test a Big Mac ATM in Boston on Jan. 31 is a marketing gimmick, just like putting 10,000 bottles of Special Sauce on sale at selected Golden Arches yesterday.

For a few hours, the machine will spit out a Grand Mac or Mac Jr. for free  sort of: You have to plug in your Twitter handle and then a tweet will be generated saying: Check out the new Big Mac, according to The Boston Globe.

Related: Barbecue Bots: Further Evidence That Men Are Expendable

But beyond the ploy to drum up attention is a movement among both fast-food and casual-fast restaurants to cut down on the interaction between customers and servers, thereby reducing the number of employees it takes to deliver a meal.

Wendys is installing self-ordering kiosks at company-owned outlets, which account for only a small percentage of its 6,000-plus restaurants, but the technology will be available to franchisees. McDonalds is testing kiosks, too.

A Wendys executive said last year that the kiosks were a response to higher wages, pushed up by minimum-wage laws in some states and the difficulty of attracting good labor.

Andy Puzder, Donald Trumps nominee for Labor Secretary, told Business Insider last year when he was CEO of Carls Jr. and Hardees, "With government driving up the cost of labor, it's driving down the number of jobs. You're going to see automation not just in airports and grocery stores, but in restaurants."

Puzder now famously said that robots are "always polite, they always upsell, they never take a vacation, they never show up late, there's never a slip-and-fall, or an age, sex, or race discrimination case.

Related: Fast-food Workers Protest Trump's Labor Secretary Nominee

But its not just fast-food restaurants that are looking to diminish the human factor.



In a modern version of the old Automats operated by Horn & Hardart in New York and Philadelphia starting in the early 20th century, Eatsa, a chain of restaurants with outlets in New York, San Francisco and Berkeley, Calif., offers quinoa-based meals presented without human interaction: You order and pay on an iPad and pick up your $6.95 bowl from a cubbie that flashes your name.

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Ichiran, the Brooklyn outpost of a Japanese ramen chain, boils down the concept even further. It serves just one soup  the pork-based Tonkatsu  though there are many variations and possible add-ons. Solo diners sit in a booth separated from others by a bamboo screen, fill out a menu by hand and are served when a shade is raised, and a bowl is placed before them. There are even wordless ways to ask for more water or noodles.

For diners who have grown tired of servers who introduce themselves and practically give you their life stories before reciting the specials and adding details, the notion of getting your food without a lot of chatter is welcome.

Related: Will You Lose Your Job to a Robot?

But total automation may have a long way to go.

Momentum Machines, a startup in San Francisco that has been working on a system to cook and build burgers entirely without the help of humans since 2012, was set to open a restaurant last summer, according to Eater and other media outlets. Calls to Momentum went to a full voicemail box, and a satellite view of the planned location from last November shows no burger joint.

Top Reads from The Fiscal Times:
Kano (Nigeria) (AFP) - At least three Nigerian soldiers were killed when Boko Haram jihadists raided a military post near the country home of Nigeria's army chief in northern Borno state, military and civilian sources said Saturday.

The Islamist group however claimed to have killed five troops in the attack.

Armed jihadists from the Islamic State-supported Al-Barnawi faction of Boko Haram launched a midnight attack Thursday on Nigerian troops in the village of Kamuya, around five kilometres (three miles) from Buratai, the native home of army chief of staff General Tukur Yusuf Buratai, a military source told AFP.

"The terrorists who rode on camels attacked our checkpoint at Kamuya, killing three soldiers after a gun battle," said the military source who asked not to be identified.

"The troops retreated to Buratai where they teamed up with another detachment and went after the terrorists in the bush," the military officer said.

Troops sealed the area, preventing villagers from leaving and making it difficult to get a detailed account of the incident.

Nigerian military officials declined to comment on the attack.

In a tweet from the IS-affiliated Amaq news agency, Boko Haram claimed it killed five soldiers from the regional coalition fighting the jihadists.

"Killing of five African coalition soldiers and 11 injured after attack by Islamic Caliphate forces... in Kamuya town," the tweet read in part.

A civilian resident in the nearby Miringa village said the Kamuya assault was carried out by fighters from the Al-Barnawi faction who are known to be hiding in the area's Ajigin forest.

Umar Sanda told AFP that Ajigin forest was the bastion of the Al-Barnawi fighters and that "they are responsible for most of the attacks in the area including the one in Kamuya."

He added that the residents have repeatedly told the soldiers that "Ajigin is the hideout of Boko Haram in the area and as long as they are not dislodged there will no end to their attacks."

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Boko Haram, which has pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group, has been in the grip of a power struggle.

One faction is led by Abu Musab al-Barnawi, the 22-year-old son of Boko Haram's founder Mohammed Yusuf, who was named leader by the IS high command in August.

Villages in the area have been razed and plundered in deadly raids by Boko Haram since Tukur Buratai became Nigerian army chief in June 2015.

The attacks are believed to be reprisals over the successes by the Nigerian troops who have pushed Boko Haram from swathes of Nigerian territory they had seized in their bid to carve out an Islamic Caliphate.

The military campaign which succeeded in substantually cutting off Boko Haram's food, fuel and weapons supplies has also seen Boko Haram losing its Sambisa forest stronghold to Nigerian forces.

Boko Haram violence is estimated to have killed 20,000 people and displaced 2.6 million since the start of its insurgency in 2009.
Rio de Janeiro (AFP) - Brazilian authorities have launched a major operation to stem the prison violence that has hit the country, seizing weapons and drugs at a facility where nearly three dozen inmates died in a riot this month.

The defense ministry said 335 soldiers were involved in the search of Monte Cristo Farm Penitentiary in northern Roraima state that began Friday morning.

It said 136 bladed weapons and a combined 1.2 kilograms (2.6 pounds) of cocaine and marijuana were confiscated.

"Weapons, ammunition and knives in prisons are factors that do nothing but increase tragedy, adding unacceptable savagery," Defense Minister Raul Jungmann told journalists.

The list of items seized also included 29 televisions, 43 antennas, 11 DVD players, 54 refrigerators and 16 mini-ovens, which the inmates had managed to bring into the prison.

The search was the first stage of a major government operation aimed at quelling the country's rash of prison violence -- which has left 140 dead already this year.

In the coming weeks authorities will likely carry out similar raids in other facilities.

Jungmann stressed that officials had "no contact" with Roraima detainees.

Deadly prison riots between criminal groups have unleashed an unprecedented wave of unrest in Brazil's overcrowded and dilapidated prisons.

Violence has been particularly pronounced in the northern region bordering Peru and Colombia, where much of the cocaine supply flows from.
Lisbon (AFP) - Leaders of seven southern European Union nations met in Lisbon on Saturday, seeking a united front against Brexit and the new protectionist administration of US President Donald Trump.

The mostly centre-left leaders taking part -- the second summit of southern EU leaders in four months -- are also expected to renew action to boost flagging growth and tackle the migrant crisis.

Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa shook hands and embraced Italian Prime Minister Paolo Gentiloni, French President Francois Hollande and the other leaders as they arrived.

Faced with the rise of "protectionism and populism", the EU needs urgent reforms to "surpass the economic, social and political legitimacy crisis which is weakening it," Costa said ahead of the event.

Spain, Greece, Cyprus and Malta are the other countries present.

Hollande warned Friday after talks with German Chancellor Angela Merkel in Berlin that Trump's administration poses "challenges" to "our trade rules, as well as to our ability to resolve conflicts around the world".

Trump has rattled America's traditional European allies with a range of radical policy plans.

He has called NATO "obsolete", announced he would rip up a planned transatlantic trade plan and supported Britain's move to leave the EU, calling it a "wonderful thing" on Friday during a meeting with British Prime Minister Theresa May.

Eurogroup head Jeroen Dijsselbloem warned Thursday that Europe was "on its own" after Trump took over as US president, but said it could be an opportunity to strengthen the EU.

The Lisbon summit is a follow up to a first gathering in Athens in September 2016 as part of a push by Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras to create a strong southern "axis" to counter the influence of nations in northern Europe.

The group is often referred to -- sometimes dismissively -- as "Club Med", even though one of its members, Portugal, is not on the Mediterranean.

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- Politically weak leaders -

It includes some of the nations hardest hit by the financial crisis.

Portugal and Greece both got international bailouts worth tens of billions of euros which came with demands for tough austerity measures and economic reforms.

The leaders will issue a joint statement after the meeting. It is expected to focus on the need to boost growth and investment in Europe.

Economic growth "must be at the centre" of the EU's policies, Gentiloni said Friday in Madrid after talks with Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy.

He also urged Brussels to show "flexibility" when it enforces deficit rules.

"Simply I think Italy needs expansionary economic policies," he said.

The Lisbon summit comes ahead of a February 3 meeting of EU leaders in Malta to look at the future of the bloc without Britain, its second-largest economy and its richest financial centre.

Analysts said forging a common front will be hard as southern EU nations have different priorities and many of the leaders who will be at the Lisbon summit are politically weak.

Hollande is not a candidate in France's presidential election later this year and his Socialist party is trailing in the polls.

"So whatever Hollande promises or agrees this weekend will probably be forgotten by the middle of the year," Adriano Bosoni, senior Europe analyst at US private intelligence firm Stratfor, told AFP.

"The Italian government is also fragile. The Greek prime minister is struggling to keep his government alive," he added.
ANKARA, Turkey (AP)  Turkey and Britain signed a deal to jointly build fighter jets during Prime Minister Theresa May's visit to Ankara on Saturday, even as the British leader called on Turkey's government to uphold democracy and abide by human rights standards.

Britain's BAE Systems and Turkish Aerospace industries signed the 100 million-pound (nearly $125.5 million) agreement establishing a partnership for the development of Turkey's fighter jet program after May met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and other Turkish officials about boosting trade between the countries once Britain leaves the European Union.

The two countries agreed to start preparatory work for a future free trade agreement and also talked about increasing cooperation in security and counterterrorism.

"This agreement underlines once again that Britain is a great, global, trading nation and that we are open for business," May said of the fighter jet deal, according to a statement. "It marks the start of a new and deeper trading relationship with Turkey and will potentially secure British and Turkish jobs and prosperity for decades to come."

May flew overnight to Ankara by RAF Voyager jet from the U.S., where she and U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday proclaimed a new chapter in the trans-Atlantic "special relationship."

The visit to Turkey, an important but complicated NATO ally, came amid pressure at home to condemn Turkey's clampdown on civil liberties since the government crushed a coup attempt in July.

"I am proud that the U.K. stood with you on the 15th of July last year in defense of your democracy," May said as she and Erdogan delivered brief statements to the media following their talks.

"And now it is important that Turkey sustains that democracy by maintaining the rule of law and upholding its international human rights obligations  as the government has undertaken to do," she said.

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Turkey has detained tens of thousands of people suspected of links to a movement led by U.S.-based Muslim cleric Fethullah Gulen, whom the government accuses of orchestrating the failed coup attempt. More than 100,000 others have been dismissed from government jobs.

The crackdown extended to other government opponents. More than a hundred journalists and pro-Kurdish party leaders are in jail.

During a joint news conference with May, Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim strongly criticized Trump's move to suspend the admission of refugees, saying "you cannot settle this issue by building walls."

"Nobody leaves their homes for nothing," said Yildirim, whose country has admitted some 3 million refugees. "They came here to save their lives and our doors were open. And if the same thing happened again, we would do it again."

Yildirim also complained of insufficient backing for Turkish efforts to support the refugees, saying the expression of "appreciation" to Turkey was "not enough."

May said of Trump's announcement on refugees: "The United States is responsible for the United States' policy on refugees."

May, who was paying her first visit to Turkey since becoming prime minister, arrived for talks with Erdogan to find her image dominating television screens in the presidential palace, which were showing footage of her visit to the White House.

May laughed when Erdogan said her trip to Washington "was well-covered in Turkey."

In his statement, the Turkish leader said the two countries would aim to increase their bilateral trade volume from the current $15.6 billion to some $20 billion.

Earlier, May laid a wreath in the red and white colors of the Turkish flag at the tomb of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, founder of the modern Turkish Republic, before meeting Erdogan at the vast presidential palace.

She said Britain and Turkey should "renew our efforts to fulfil Ataturk's vision of peace at home and peace in the world."

Turkey has suffered multiple deadly attacks in the past two years, carried out by the Islamic State group or by Kurdish militants, including an IS raid on a nightclub in Istanbul during New Year's celebrations that killed 39 people.

Kate Allen, head of Amnesty International UK, said the visit was a "vital opportunity" for May to ask "probing questions" about allegations of the Turkish government's excessive use of force and ill-treatment of detainees.

May and Erdogan also discussed the conflict in Syria and efforts to reunite Cyprus.

Erdogan said Turkey was seeking a "different concept" in its cooperation with allies, including Britain, in its fight against the Islamic State group in Syria.

Turkey has criticized what it calls insufficient support from the U.S.-led anti-IS coalition in its military drive to liberate a key town in northern Syria from the extremists.

___

This version corrects title of Kate Allen to head of Amnesty International UK.
Ankara (AFP) - British Prime Minister Theresa May on Saturday promised steps to ramp up trade between Turkey and Britain ahead of Brexit but also urged Ankara to uphold human rights following a failed coup.

On her first visit to Turkey as premier and fresh from meeting new US President Donald Trump at the White House, May held three hours of talks with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

May sought to strike a delicate balance between showing Britain's keen interest in expanding trade with Turkey following the June vote to leave the European Union while echoing European alarm over the scale of the crackdown after the July 15 attempted coup.

May announced the creation of a joint group to boost trade ahead of Britain's departure from the EU and also oversaw the signing of a deal for Britain's BAE Systems to develop a new Turkish fighter jet.

May said after meeting Erdogan at his palace she was "proud" Britain had stood with Turkey's democratically-elected government when the coup struck.

But she added: "Now it is important that Turkey sustains that democracy by maintaining the rule of law and upholding its international human rights obligations, as the government has undertaken to do."

May stressed that Turkey was one of Britain's "oldest friends" with relations going back over 400 years, referring to the establishment of relations between the Ottoman Empire and England under Elizabeth I.

Earlier, a spokeswoman countered criticism from some MPs that Britain was cosying up to Turkey while turning a blind eye to its human rights record.

The spokeswoman said: "I don't think there are any issues that the prime minister is afraid to bring up."

Around 43,000 people are under arrest on charges of links to the coup bid, which Ankara blames on the US-based preacher Fethullah Gulen. He denies the charges.

May's visit is also seen as the first to Ankara by a major Western leader since the attempted putsch, although then US vice president Joe Biden held talks with Erdogan in August.

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Her visit came hours after Erdogan had hosted the American actress Lindsay Lohan -- a keen supporter of Erdogan's vision of a multipolar world -- in his vast presidential palace in Ankara.

- 'Post-Brexit trading relationship' -

Erdogan said the two sides were targeting increasing annual trade from over $15 billion to $20 billion.

Meanwhile, May said Britain and Turkey have agreed to set up a working group to "prepare the ground for our post-Brexit trading relationship" after Britain leaves the European Union.

"We both want to build on our existing links and I believe that doing so will be to the benefit of both of our countries and for the prosperity of both our nations," she said.

Under a non-binding agreement, BAE Systems and state-owned Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) will establish a partnership for the development of the TF-X fighter jet.

May said it indicated that "Britain is a great, global, trading nation and that we are open for business", after the Brexit vote.

She added that "it marks the start of a new and deeper trading relationship with Turkey."

The initial phase is worth over 100 million pounds (117 million euros), Downing Street said.

But the agreement can pave the way for further deals potentially worth billions of pounds over a 20-year lifespan, May's spokeswoman told reporters.

- 'Unsavoury rulers' -

Back in the UK, some MPs have urged May not to let her focus on trade overshadow human rights concerns over the crackdown in Turkey.

"The Conservative Brexit government is so desperate for trade deals with anyone but the mature democracies of the European Union that even the most unsavoury rulers are to be subjected to the prime ministerial charm," opposition Liberal Democrat MP Sarah Olney wrote in the Guardian newspaper.

Erdogan and May also discussed the battle against jihadists in Syria and efforts to reunify Cyprus, where both Ankara and London are guarantor powers, as well as aviation security.

"I am pleased with the steps we have taken and I believe in the continuation of this success in the future," Erdogan said after the talks.
Ankara (AFP) - British Prime Minister Theresa May on Saturday refused to condemn an order by US President Donald Trump suspending refugee arrivals, saying Washington was responsible for its own refugee policy.

"The United States is responsible for the United States' policy on refugees. The United Kingdom is responsible for the United Kingdom's policy on refugees," May said at a news conference in Ankara, after being repeatedly pressed to give her opinion on Trump's executive order.

"And our policy on refugees is to have a number of voluntary schemes to bring Syrian refugees into the country, particularly those who are most vulnerable but also to provide significant financial contributions to support refugees in countries surrounding Syria," she added.

On the same day May visited Washington for her first White House meeting with Trump to bolster the London-Washington relationship, the new president ordered a suspension of refugee arrivals.

He also imposed tough controls on travellers from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

At a joint news conference with Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim, May had initially declined to be drawn into directly giving any comment on Trump's order.

Instead she praised Turkey for its hospitality in hosting some three million refugees from Syria and also Iraq.

Yildirim however offered implicit condemnation of Trump's move, saying throwing up walls will not solve the world's refugee problems.

"We cannot solve this refugee problem by putting up walls," Yildirim said.

Trump's executive order specifically says no visas will be issued for 90 days to migrants or visitors from the seven Muslim-majority countries.

Yildirim insisted that with tens of millions of refugees worldwide, it was a problem which "could not be ignored" but had to be solved with greater cooperation between countries.

"We opened our doors, and if they come again, we would take them again," he said, adding: "Regional problems cannot be solved by sweeping them under the carpet."

The Turkish authorities say they are hosting some 2.7 million Syrian refugees who fled the country during the over six-year conflict and another 300,000 Iraqi refugees.

Yildirim added it would not be possible to make "assessments on hearsay" with regard to Trump's order.
Ankara (AFP) - British Prime Minister Theresa May on Saturday urged Turkey to maintain the rule of law and observe its human rights obligations in the wake of the July 15 failed coup.

Speaking after talks with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, May said she was "proud" Britain had stood with Turkey's democratically-elected government when the coup struck.

"Now it is important that Turkey sustains that democracy by maintaining the rule of law and upholding its international human rights obligations, as the government has undertaken to do," she said.
Ankara (AFP) - British Prime Minister Theresa May on Saturday urged Turkey to maintain the rule of law and observe its human rights obligations in the wake of the July 15 failed coup.

Speaking after talks with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara, May said she was "proud" Britain had stood with Turkey's democratically-elected government when the coup struck.

"Now it is important that Turkey sustains that democracy by maintaining the rule of law and upholding its international human rights obligations, as the government has undertaken to do," she said.

May stressed that Turkey was one of Britain's "oldest friends" with relations going back over 400 years, referring to the establishment of relations between the Ottoman Empire and England under Elizabeth I.

The premier is seeking a delicate balance in the wake of Britain's vote to leave the European Union, expressing keen interest in expanding trade with Turkey but also echoing European alarm over the magnitude of the crackdown since the July 15 failed coup.

May said Britain and Turkey had agreed to set up a working group to boost bilateral trade.

"We have agreed that we will have a joint working group to prepare the ground for our post-Brexit trading relationship," May said.

Erdogan said the two sides were targeting increasing annual trade from over $15 billion to $20 billion.

May said that they had discussed the prospects for enhancing trade in the talks.

"We both want to build on our existing links and I believe that doing so will be to the benefit of both of our countries and for the prosperity of both our nations," she said.

Erdogan added: "We discussed what kind of joint steps we could take in the defence industry."

The pair also discussed the battle against jihadists in Syria and efforts to reunify Cyprus, where both Ankara and London are guarantor powers.

The British premier said security on air transport was also a key issue.

"We are also agreed to step up our work together on aviation security with a programme of shared training and information exchange," said May.
By Susanna Twidale (Reuters) - British lawmakers have written to Prime Minister Theresa May, urging her to challenge U.S. President Donald Trump on his views on climate change when the two leaders meet on Friday. Trump has dismissed climate change as a "hoax" and vowed during his presidential campaign to pull the United States out of the 2015 Paris Agreement designed to curb greenhouse gas emissions blamed for global warming. "As one of the world's largest emitters ... his approach to reducing emissions could determine whether we, in the UK and people round the world, experience or avoid the worst impacts of climate change," the letter from the cross-party Environmental Audit Committee said. May is set to be the first foreign leader to meet the new U.S. President on Friday, with the talks expected to focus on trade. Environmental Audit Committee chair Mary Creagh said that May should use the opportunity to demonstrate Britain's commitment to fighting climate change. "The Prime Minister has said she won't be afraid to challenge the new President. So she should start by telling him climate change is not a hoax," Creagh said. Scientists warn that rising global temperatures must be stalled to stave off the worst effects of climate change, including floods, droughts and rising sea levels.
London (AFP) - An MP from British Prime Minister Theresa May's Conservative Party on Saturday revealed he would be barred from entering the US under President Donald Trump's immigration clampdown, presenting his boss with a diplomatic headache.

Iraqi-born MP Nadhim Zahawi tweeted that he had had "confirmation that the order does apply to myself and my wife as we were both born in Iraq," even though the pair have British passports.

"A sad sad day to feel like a second class citizen! Sad day for the USA," he added.

The revelation presents May with a diplomatic quandary having become the first international leader to meet the US president on Friday, where the pair discussed the possibility of a swift trade deal after Britain leaves the European Union.

Following his meeting with May, Trump on Friday signed a sweeping executive order to suspend the arrival of refugees and impose tough new controls on travellers from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Syria and Yemen.

May refused to condemn the order despite being repeatedly pressed at a news conference during a trip to Turkey, saying Washington was responsible for its own refugee policy.

"The United States is responsible for the United States' policy on refugees," she said. "The United Kingdom is responsible for the United Kingdom's policy on refugees."

However, the involvement of British citizens has ramped up the pressure from members of her own party to condemn the president's stance, threatening the goodwill built up during her visit to Washington.

Tory MP Sarah Wollaston called Trump "a sickening piece of work" and demanded that he not be allowed to address both of Britain's Houses of Parliament when he makes a state visit late in the year, when he will be hosted by Queen Elizabeth II.

Opposition Labour MP Yvette Cooper said that May's refusal to condemn Trump "shames Britain".
Ottawa (AFP) - Prime Minister Justin Trudeau welcomed Canadian immigrants Saturday in a sunny Twitter message written in stark contrast to Donald Trump's order temporarily banning all refugees and many Muslims from traveling to the United States.

"To those fleeing persecution, terror & war, Canadians will welcome you, regardless of your faith. Diversity is our strength #WelcomeToCanada," Trudeau posted on Twitter.

The message comes one day after Trump signed a sweeping executive order to suspend the arrival of refugees for at least 120 days and impose tough new controls on travelers from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Syria and Yemen for the next three months.

Since then, travelers from those countries have been stopped from boarding US-bound planes, triggering angry protests and detentions at airports.

Some who were already in the air when Trump signed the executive order were detained on arrival, The New York Times reported.

But a federal judge blocked part of the Republican's temporary immigration ban on Saturday, ordering authorities to stop deporting refugees and other travelers stuck at US airports.

After speaking with Washington Canadian officials said late Saturday that Canadian citizens, including those with dual citizenship, would not be subject to Trump's restrictions.

"We have been assured that Canadian citizens traveling on Canadian passports will be dealt with in the usual process," said Trudeau spokeswoman Kate Purchase.

On Saturday, Canadian airline WestJet said it would reimburse passengers prevented from traveling to the United States under the new policy.

"WestJet will comply with this executive order," the company said in a statement.

"In the event there are foreign nationals from these countries on WestJet who are denied entry, we will be providing them with a full refund."

The airliner has already had to refuse one passenger transport to the United States, a spokeswoman said, without specifying the passenger's origin.

According to the latest Canadian census, from 2011, one out of five people in the country are foreign-born.

Canada has welcomed more than 39,670 Syrian refugees between November 2015 and the beginning of this January, according to government figures.
By Ryan Parker, The Hollywood Reporter

It is so cool, and so sad.

On Friday, ABC News reported on an unearthed interview the late Carrie Fisher gave in which she said she wanted Han Solo, Harrison Ford, to sing during her tribute at the Oscars after she passed. Fisher died last month of a heart attack. She was 60.

Related: Star Wars: The Line Mark Hamill Begged George Lucas to Remove From A New Hope

In addition to her on-screen, and once real-life love interest, Fisher also once said she wanted her obituary to read that she drowned in moonlight, strangled by my own bra.

The Princess Leia actress, who appeared in the original trilogy and episodes VII and the upcoming VIII, revealed during a 2010 interview with Jimmy McInerney and Jason Swank, hosts of the Rebel Force Radio podcast, that while at a party, she asked Ford to sing for her tribute.

I asked him if he would be in my death reel, and if he would sing, Fisher said. Its just something I want.

The song? Melancholy Wookiee, she joked.

Related: Dan Aykroyd Writes Touching Tribute to Former Fiancee, Carrie Fisher

In her final book before her death, The Princess Diarist, Fisher wrote of her affair with Ford while they were filming A New Hope in England in 1976. She also wrote she still carried a torch for him. Ford, via a statement, said he was heartbroken to learn of her death.

Fisher said she got the idea for the Solo singing after writer-director John Hughes died and numerous actors he worked with paid tribute to him during the Oscars.

So, I figured theyll bring out, depending on when it happens, theres a lot of people they can bring out, Fisher said.

McInerney told ABC News he hoped the unearthed Fisher request would inspire the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to do something extra for the iconic actress when the show airs next month.

Related: LucasFilm Has No Plans for Digital Re-Creation of Carrie Fisher as Leia

Thats what shes asking for, McInerney told ABC News. You can say shes being flippant and silly, but thats what she said she wants.

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The Academy told ABC News Fisher will most likely be included in the In Memoriam segment, but at this time, there were no plans for a separate tribute.

The 89th Academy Awards, hosted by Jimmy Kimmel, air Feb. 26.

Carrie Fisher Flashback: What She Told Us About That Empire Kiss With Screen Brother Mark Hamill (There Were No Tongues):
Around the world people are celebrating the most important holiday in the Chinese calendar.

Chinese New Year  based on the ancient lunar calendar  will this weekend see millions of people join the celebrations with fireworks, gifts and colorful decorations.

The international celebration will be celebrated in countries across the globe including Hong Kong, Taiwan, the Philippines, Spain, Vietnam, Australia and London.

Celebrations vary depending on where they are held, but this year the lucky colors are gold, brown and yellow which are associated with 2017s animal  the rooster.

See more news-related photo galleries and follow us on Yahoo News Photo Tumblr.

A fire breather blows flames as a troupe performs a traditional dragon dance during the first day of Chinese Lunar New Year in Yangon's Chinatown district on January 28, 2017. (YE AUNG THU/AFP/Getty Images)

Performers take part in a night parade to celebrate Chinese New Year in Hong Kong, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. The Lunar New Year this year marks the Year of the Rooster in the Chinese calendar. (AP Photo/Vincent Yu)

A performer at the Great Wall Iron Sparks show turns a mechanism to spin molten iron and create sparks in Yanqing county on the outskirts of Beijing, China, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. An ancient craft that can be traced back several hundred years, the company is trying to revive the practice of throwing the molten iron and using the Lunar New Year period to showcase their latest choreography. Chinese character reads

Thais bring offerings and pray for good fortune to mark the Chinese Lunar New Year at Kuan Yim Shrine in Chinatown, Bangkok, Thailand on January 28, 2017. (Anusak Laowilas/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

People from the Chinese community celebrate the Lunar New Year, the year of the Rooster, in Madrid, Spain Saturday Jan. 28, 2017. (AP Photo/Paul White)

An artist performs during the Lunar parade through the center of Rome to mark Chinese new year, in Rome, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Revellers perform a dragon dance among smoke caused by firecrackers during Chinese Lunar New Year celebrations in Manila's Chinatown, Philippines January 28, 2017. (REUTERS/Ezra Acayan)

Performers take part in a night parade to celebrate Chinese New Year in Hong Kong, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. The Lunar New Year this year marks the Year of the Rooster in the Chinese calendar. (AP Photo/Vincent Yu)

A woman walk in front of a Buddhist statue during the Lunar New Year celebrations at Wat Mangkon Kamalawat in Chinatown, Bangkok , Thailand on January 28, 2017. (Anusak Laowilas/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

A performer takes part in a night parade to celebrate Chinese New Year in Hong Kong, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. The Lunar New Year this year marks the Year of the Rooster in the Chinese calendar. (AP Photo/Vincent Yu)

Performers take part in a night parade to celebrate Chinese New Year in Hong Kong, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. The Lunar New Year this year marks the Year of the Rooster in the Chinese calendar. (AP Photo/Vincent Yu)

Chinese worshippers light incense as they pray at the Dacheng Temple on Jan 28, 2017 in Qiqihar, China. (Tao Zhang/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Performers show a dragon dance in a night parade to celebrate Chinese New Year in Hong Kong, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. The Lunar New Year this year marks the Year of the Rooster in the Chinese calendar. (AP Photo/Vincent Yu)

Performers turn a wheel spinning molten iron to create sparks at the Great Wall Iron Sparks show in Yanqing county on the outskirts of Beijing, China, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. An ancient craft that can be traced back several hundred years, the company is trying to revive the practice of throwing the molten iron and using the Lunar New Year period to showcase their latest choreography. Chinese character in center reads

Performers take part in a night parade to celebrate Chinese New Year in Hong Kong, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. The Lunar New Year this year marks the Year of the Rooster in the Chinese calendar. (AP Photo/Vincent Yu)

Performers with dragon puppets dance in a night parade to celebrate Chinese New Year in Hong Kong, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. The Lunar New Year this year marks the Year of the Rooster in the Chinese calendar. (AP Photo/Vincent Yu)

A fire-eater performs on the street during Chinese New Year celebrations, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, in the Chinatown area of Manila, Philippines. Chinese around the world are celebrating this year's Year of the Rooster according to the Chinese zodiac calendar. (AP Photo/Bullit Marquez)

People from the Chinese community celebrate the Lunar New Year, the year of the Rooster, in Madrid, Spain Saturday Jan. 28, 2017. (AP Photo/Paul White)

Dragon and lion dancers perform amidst exploding firecrackers in front of a business establishment in celebration of the Chinese Lunar New Year, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, in the Chinatown area of Manila, Philippines. This year is the Year of the Rooster on the Chinese lunar calendar. (AP Photo/Bullit Marquez)

Performers take part in a night parade to celebrate Chinese New Year in Hong Kong, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. The Lunar New Year this year marks the Year of the Rooster in the Chinese calendar. (AP Photo/Vincent Yu)

Performers take part in a night parade to celebrate Chinese New Year in Hong Kong, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. The Lunar New Year this year marks the Year of the Rooster in the Chinese calendar. (AP Photo/Vincent Yu)

Performers take part in a night parade to celebrate Chinese New Year in Hong Kong, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. The Lunar New Year this year marks the Year of the Rooster in the Chinese calendar. (AP Photo/Vincent Yu)

Children get ready for a parade during the Chinese community celebrations of the Lunar New Year, the year of the Rooster, in Madrid, Spain Saturday Jan. 28, 2017. (AP Photo/Paul White)

Performers dance in a night parade to celebrate Chinese New Year in Hong Kong, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. The Lunar New Year this year marks the Year of the Rooster in the Chinese calendar. (AP Photo/Vincent Yu)

Indian ethnic Chinese boys wait to perform a lion dance on the first day of Chinese lunar new year in Kolkata, India, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. Chinese around the world are celebrating this year's Year of the Rooster according to the Chinese zodiac calendar. (AP Photo/Bikas Das)

Offerings are set on a prayer altar before the portrait of a deceased relative inside a restaurant on the first day of Chinese lunar new year in Kolkata, India, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. Chinese around the world are celebrating this year's Year of the Rooster according to the Chinese zodiac calendar. (AP Photo/Bikas Das)

Dragon dancers prepare to perform in front of a business establishment in celebration of the Chinese Lunar New Year, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, in the Chinatown area of Manila, Philippines. This year is the Year of the Rooster on the Chinese lunar calendar. (AP Photo/Bullit Marquez)

People try to catch red envelopes containing cash known as

Dragon and lion dancers perform amidst exploding firecrackers in front of a business establishment in celebration of the Chinese Lunar New Year, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, in the Chinatown area of Manila, Philippines. This year is the Year of the Rooster on the Chinese lunar calendar. (AP Photo/Bullit Marquez)

Dragon and lion dancers perform amidst exploding firecrackers in front of a business establishment in celebration of the Chinese Lunar New Year, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, in the Chinatown area of Manila, Philippines. This year is the Year of the Rooster on the Chinese lunar calendar. (AP Photo/Bullit Marquez)

Chinese lion dancers draw attention from onlookers as they celebrate a Chinese Lunar New Year parading through Chinatown in Yokohama, near Tokyo, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. This year marks the Year of the Rooster in the Chinese zodiac. (AP Photo/Koji Sasahara)

An ethnic Chinese man prays during celebrations of the Lunar New Year at the Dharma Bakti Temple in Jakarta, Indonesia, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. Ethnic Chinese in the world's most populous Muslim country are celebrating the Year of the Rooster. (AP Photo/Achmad Ibrahim)

An ethnic Chinese man lights incense sticks during celebrations of the Lunar New Year at the Dharma Bakti Temple in Jakarta, Indonesia, Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017. Ethnic Chinese in the world's most populous Muslim country are celebrating the Year of the Rooster. (AP Photo/Achmad Ibrahim)

Local Chinese artists perform a dragon dance during celebrations to mark Lunar New Year at Chinatown Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, in Yangon, Myanmar. Saturday marks the Year of the Rooster in the Chinese calendar. (AP Photo/Thein Zaw)

Local Chinese artists perform a dragon dance during celebrations to mark Lunar New Year at Chinatown Saturday, Jan.28, 2017, in Yangon, Myanmar. Saturday marks the Year of the Rooster in the Chinese calendar. (AP Photo/Thein Zaw)
N'Djamena (AFP) - Chad on Wednesday banned the full-face Muslim veil and ordered security forces to seize burqas from markets and burn them after 33 people were killed in suicide bombings blamed on Nigerian Islamist group Boko Haram this week.

"Wearing the burqa must stop immediately from today, not only in public places and schools but throughout the whole of the country," Prime Minister Kalzeube Pahimi Deubet said in a speech to religious leaders the day before the start of the holy Muslim festival of Ramadan.

Any type of clothing that leaves only the eyes visible is a form of "camouflage" and is now banned, he added, asking the religious leaders to spread the message in their mosques, churches and holy places.

Prime Minister Deubet said instructions had been given to security forces to "go into the markets and to seize all the burqas on sale and burn them".

Anyone found wearing a burqa would be "arrested, tried and sentenced in summary proceedings", he added.

Monday's bombings, the first such attacks in the capital of Muslim-majority Chad, have been blamed on Boko Haram jihadists who have previously carried out bloody assaults on villages along the border with Nigeria.

The Islamist militants have used female suicide bombers to launch attacks in the past by hiding explosive devices under their clothes.

Chad's government on Tuesday declared three days of national mourning for the 33 people killed and more than 100 others wounded in the blasts.

President Idriss Deby said he was "not surprised" the country has been targetted because of the leading role its army is playing in a regional offensive against Boko Haram fighters operating out of northeastern Nigeria.

- 'Don't drop your guard' -

"I have continually told the government to not drop its guard," he said, urging the international community to back the states in their struggle.

Nigeria, Chad, Niger, Benin and Cameroon agreed last week to set up a regional task force of 8,700 soldiers, police officers and civilians, based in N'Djamena.

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Boko Haram's leader Abubakar Shekau had threatened several times to attack Chad and other countries that joined forces against the militants, whose bloody six-year insurgency is increasingly spilling across Nigeria's borders.

Although Boko Haram has yet to claim responsibility for the bombings, France, which relies heavily on N'Djamena in the fight against jihadist groups in the Sahel region, accused the militants of being behind the attack.

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon also condemned Monday's attacks and praised Chad "for its courageous role in the fight against Boko Haram".

Security was stepped up in N'Djamena Tuesday, with scores of police and soldiers patrolling the streets and stopping cars for security checks.

Vehicles with tinted windows had been barred from the streets, and the area around the presidential palace and the police headquarters -- which was one of the bombers' targets, along with a police academy -- had been sealed off.

The burqa ban was ordered by a crisis committee formed on Tuesday after the president returned from an African Union summit in South Africa. Prosecutors also arrested several people on the same day.

"Strict instructions have been given to the government and security services... additional measures were (also) taken by the head of state," said Deubet.
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP)  A Florida man suspected in the killing of his pregnant ex-girlfriend and an Orlando police officer is being charged with additional crimes.

Markeith Loyd was back in an Orange County courtroom on Saturday regarding three charges of aggravated assault with a firearm.

The Orlando Sentinel reported (http://bit.ly/2jB0aik ) that this time Loyd's court appearance went smoothly. During a court appearance earlier this month Loyd cursed and shouted at a judge.

The Sentinel reported that the new charges are related to an August incident that occurred nearly four months before Loyd was accused of killing 24-year-old Sade Dixon.

Loyd is facing two first-degree murder counts and a host of other charges related to the deaths of his ex-girlfriend and Lt. Debra Clayton.

Information from the Orlando Sentinel: http://www.orlandosentinel.com/
Cheri Beasleys judicial career shows that she consistently puts the interests of criminals over the interests of their victims. The list of examples is endless but here are a few of her most shocking rulings:
Beijing has accused the European Union of "protectionist" behaviour after Brussels imposed anti-dumping duties on Chinese steel products, as it seeks to protect struggling steel makers in Europe.

The EU Commission said Friday it would impose taxes of between 30.7 percent and 64.9 percent on certain Chinese steel products which it says are being sold at a loss in Europe.

The measure, which also applies to Taiwan, is part of an EU push against China -- which makes more than half the world's steel -- for allegedly flooding global markets in violation of international trade agreements.

But China's commerce ministry said the EU move was in breach of World Trade Organization rules and vowed to "take necessary measures to defend the fair rights" of Chinese companies.

"Imprudently taking protectionist measures is just another attack on international trade," a ministry official said Friday in a statement.

The targeted products are used to join steel pipes and tubes, and are commonly used in industries such as food processing and shipbuilding as well as energy and construction.

In the face of criticism, Beijing has vowed to eliminate 100-150 million tonnes of capacity -- out of a total of 1.2 billion tonnes -- by 2020.

The EU has had a series of trade disputes with China, its second-largest trading partner, but is also seeking to resolve the stand-off over steel with Beijing through the OECD, the Paris-based group of developed economies.
As part of his plan to fund his promised big, beautiful wall on the southern U.S. borderwhich Mexico, it turns out, is not going to pay forPresident Donald Trump may effectively raise the price of numerous products that come from Americas third largest goods trading partner.

Namely, the prices of cars, trucks, buses, vehicle parts, televisions, computers, telecommunications equipment and fruits and vegetables could all rise noticeably, as a result of not only proposed tariffs on Mexican goods as a means of paying for said wall, but Trumps stated intentions to eliminate the North American Free Trade Agreement, more commonly known as NAFTA.

After Trump signed an executive order Wednesday kicking off the immediate construction of a physical wall on the southern border, the two top congressional leaders, Sen. Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Kentucky) and House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wisconsin), said at a Thursday press conference that they expected the cost to be in the range of $12 billion to $15 billion. As Press Secretary Sean Spicer suggested in a separate press conference Thursday, that expense may be covered by a 20 percent tax on imports to the U.S. from its southern neighbor. And thats a lot of goods.

The total value of products imported from Mexico totaled $296.4 billion in 2015, according to the U.S. Census. Multiply that by 20 percent, and thats an additional $59.28 billion paid by consumers and businesses whose inputs come from the country.

The price hikes could be particularly acute in the auto industry, as car parts and accessories constituted the largest portion of Mexican import goods to the U.S., with $42.9 billion, according to the Census, followed by buses, trucks and special purpose vehicles, with $29.1 billion, and both new and used passenger cars, with $23.4 billion.

The auto industry doesnt plan to adjust to Trumps imposition of trade barriers, according to a study by industry forecaster LMC Automotive Limited released Jan 18. Automakers, particularly General Motors, Hyundai, Ford, Toyota and Volkswagen, planned to not only maintain their 2016 share of Mexico-based production, but increase it by 2020. Nine out of 13 automakers surveyed planned to increase their share of U.S. sales built in Mexico over the same period. Put simply, Americans could soon be paying a lot more for their cars.

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Mexico is also the second-largest external supplier of U.S. agricultural goods, with $21 billion with of imports in 2015. Its main products are corn, wheat, soybeans, rice, beans, cotton, coffee, tomatoes, beef, poultry, dairy and fruitincluding the high-selling avocadoaccording to the Central Intelligence Agencys World Factbook.

Americans bought $15.4 billion worth of computers, $14.3 billion in telecommunications equipment, $12.6 billion in electrical equipment and $12.5 billion in TVs and video equipment from Mexico in 2015 as well, according to the Census.

Household spending, the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget wrote International Business Times in an email, could rise by $120 on average as a result, and even if the Trump administration doesnt follow through on its 20 percent tax plan, theres another way prices of Mexican goods could rise.

Trump ran on a pledge to tell NAFTA partners that we intend to immediately renegotiate the terms of that agreement, according to his campaign site. The 1994 trade agreement brought the tariffs that had existed on 60 percent of imports from Mexicowhich averaged around 7 percent, with 11 percent for agricultural goods and a maximum of 35 percent for some productsgradually down to zero, according to the Congressional Research Service.

Without NAFTA, Americans could again face such tariffs on Mexican goodscars, computers, coffee and even Trump Signature Collection suits.

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SANTA MONICA, Calif. (AP)  A Southern California city says it has reached an agreement with the federal government to close Santa Monica's airport.

The city says in a press release issued Saturday that the airport would be closed in December 2028.

Santa Monica spokeswoman Constance Farrell says the city aims to turn the 227-acre site into a large park.

She says more details will be released at a press conference later Saturday.

The agreement would put an end to a lengthy battle with the Federal Aviation Administration over the future of the site.

Residents who wanted the airport closed raised concerns about noise, air pollution and the risk of planes crashing into nearby neighborhoods.
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Pretty much everyone loves Boba Fett.

SEE ALSO: 23 incredible photos from Disney's 'Star Wars' cruise

Yes, he is a bounty hunter working for the dark side. But he's also fights with wrist rockets and a jet pack, so he's obviously a BAMF.

Boba Fett is one of the most popular characters in the Star Wars franchise, so much so that he has his own Boba Fett Fan Club. A member of that fan club captured this video of Boba Fett being his slick self at the Walt Disney Land Resort in Orlando.

Finger guns that actually come with an explosion effect in the background? First of all, well played, Fett.

Second of all, where can we get that?
Stockholm (AFP) - Swedish photographer Lennart Nilsson, who shot to fame in the 1960s with photographs of human foetuses and embryos, died on Saturday at the age of 94, his family told TT news agency.

A war photographer, documentary-maker and portraitist, Nilsson used an ultra-fine tube called an endoscope, to take pictures of cells and blood vessels, and went on to take images of human foetuses and embryos.

His 1965 book, "A Child is Born," was one of the most successful photography albums ever, selling in the millions and becoming an iconic work for the anti-abortion movement.

Only later did it become widely known that many of the embryos used in the photo-essay were not alive, as many readers had thought, but had been aborted.

At Sweden's Karolinska Institutet, Nilsson went on to explore scientific photography.

He is commonly credited with the first photographs of the AIDS virus and the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) virus, using a scanning electron microscope.
By Ben Hirschler LONDON (Reuters) - European prices for some off-patent cancer drugs have risen by more than 100 percent in the past five years, with two cases of hikes exceeding 1,000 percent, according to data presented at a medical conference on Saturday. Similar price rises for old drugs have sparked outrage in the United States, where former hedge fund manager Martin Shkreli was pilloried in 2015 for increasing the cost of an anti-parasitic medicine by more than 5,000 percent. The new analysis by British academics suggests Europe is not immune to such unexplained cost increases, although absolute prices typically remain a lot lower than in the United States. "It seems to be happening quite frequently across Europe," said Andrew Hill of the University of Liverpool, who presented the data with a colleague from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine at the European Cancer Congress in Amsterdam. "Prices aren't as high as in the U.S. but these are generic drugs and, as such, they should be available at close to the cost of production." Hill's analysis showed the British list price of busulfan, an old drug for leukaemia, had increased by 1,227 percent between 2011 and 2016, while one generic version of tamoxifen, used for breast cancer, rose by 1,079 percent. There were also massive increases for some cancer treatments in other European countries, including Italy, where Aspen Pharmacare was fined 5 million euros ($5.3 million) last year after hiking the price of a chemotherapy drug by 1,540 percent. Aspen is appealing the decision. Industry critics argue some companies take over supply of certain generic drugs and then raise prices progressively to maximize profits. The generics industry says this is a skewed picture, since in some cases prices need to rise from unrealistically low levels to keep production viable, especially when companies are supplying only a small number of patients. South Africa-based Aspen said that while the percentage increases appeared large, they were "from a very low and unsustainable price base, having not been increased over decades". Warwick Smith, director general of the British Generic Manufacturers Association, said in many cases competitive tendering systems imposed by European healthcare systems also resulted in very substantial discounts from the prices cited. "In the case of generic medicines used in hospitals, it is important to distinguish between the actual price paid and the much higher list prices often quoted," he said. The issue is gaining increased attention from authorities in several European countries, with Britain last month fining Pfizer a record 84.2 million pounds ($106 million) for its role in ramping up the cost of an old epilepsy drug by as much as 2,600 percent. Pfizer is appealing. The British government is also introducing new legislation designed to secure better value for money for the National Health Service from its spend on medicines. The European Consumer Organisation BEUC, meanwhile, wrote to European Commissioner for Competition Margrethe Vestager in October asking her investigate potential cases of unfair generic drug prices across the European Union. (Editing by Mark Potter)
Lisbon (AFP) - French President Francois Hollande urged Europe to form a united front and provide a "firm" response to US President Donald Trump, at a gathering Saturday of southern European Union leaders.

"We must conduct firm dialogue with the new American administration which has shown it has its own approach to the problems we all face," he said at the end of the gathering as he was flanked by the other leaders who took part.

Trump has rattled America's traditional European allies with a range of radical policy plans.

He has called NATO "obsolete", announced he would rip up a planned transatlantic trade plan and supported Britain's move to leave the EU, praising the decision as "a wonderful thing" during a meeting Friday with British Prime Minister Theresa May.

On Friday he also signed a sweeping executive order to suspend the arrival of refugees and impose tough controls on travellers from seven Muslim countries.

During his first phone conversation with Trump late Saturday, Hollande stressed the "economic and political consequences of a protectionist approach", adding that the principle of "acceptance of refugees" should be respected.

"Faced with an unstable and uncertain world, withdrawal into oneself is a dead-end response," Hollande was quoted as saying in an Elysee Palace statement.

Hollande had earlier told the gathering that "when he adopts protectionist measures, which could destabilise economies not just in Europe but the economies of the main countries of the world, we have to respond".

"And when he refuses the arrival of refugees, while Europe has done its duty, we have to respond."

- Ready to cooperate with Trump -

While officially the new administration in Washington was not on the agenda, the six other European leaders who took part in the summit also alluded to Trump.

Italian Prime Minister Paolo Gentiloni said Europe was "ready, interested and willing to cooperate" with the Trump administration.

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"But we are Europe, and we cherish our values," he added.

Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy defended the EU project, saying it had helped transform Europe into the world region with the "highest level of progress, civil rights and well being".

Also meeting in Lisbon were the leaders of Malta, Cyprus, Greece and Portugal.

The summit was a follow up to a first gathering in Athens in September 2016 as part of a push by Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras to create a strong southern "axis" to counter the influence of nations in northern Europe.

The group is often referred to -- sometimes dismissively -- as "Club Med", even though one of its members, Portugal, is not on the Mediterranean.

It includes some of the nations hardest hit by the financial crisis.

Portugal and Greece both needed international bailouts worth tens of billions of euros which came with demands for tough austerity measures and economic reforms.

- Boost investment -

As in the first meeting in Greece, the mostly centre-left leaders gathered in Portugal urged Brussels to do more to boost flagging growth in the bloc.

A joint declaration signed by the participating countries said the EU should boost funding for strategic investment.

"We share the urgency of promoting investment, growth, employment, with a special focus on youth employment," it read.

The Lisbon summit comes ahead of a February 3 meeting of EU leaders in Malta to look at the future of the bloc without Britain, its second-largest economy and its richest financial centre.

Rajoy said Madrid would host a third summit of southern EU nations in April.

"These countries meet informally and they have no other goal other than to work for the people of the entire European Union," he said.

The goal is not to create an "organisation" inside Europe but to act "in the service of the entire European Union," added Hollande.

The so-called Visegrad group -- made up of Hungary, Slovakia, the Czech Republic and Poland -- have also held their own meetings to present a united front.
Former Mexican president Vicente Fox joined Today on Friday and shared his thoughts on the current showdown between the Trump administration and Mexico. The conflict stems from the proposed border wall between the U.S. and Mexico. Trump signed an executive order earlier this week to begin construction on the wall, prompting Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto to cancel a planned meeting with Trump. Fox has been outspoken against Trump and the wall throughout the campaign and now into his presidency.

Trump said throughout his campaign that he would build the wall and that Mexico would pay for it. The Mexican government, though, has said on many occasions that it will not pay for the wall. In response, the Trump administration has proposed a 20 percent tax on imports from Mexico, a move that Fox believes will only hurt American consumers.

Fox also said that Mexico is ready for a trade war with the U.S., and he believes if that were to happen, Trump would be reneging on one of the staples of his campaign.

Mexico is accountable for U.S. citizens by what we import every year into Mexico. $250 billion. So the first big loss to (the) United States is 10 million U.S. workers jobs, which he has promised to protect. And now he is doing exactly the opposite, Fox said.

Watch Laurence Fishburne share lessons learned from Nelson Mandela with the new administration:

Tell us what you think! Hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram or leave your comments below. And check out our host, Khail Anonymous, on Twitter.
President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Friday that temporarily bans new U.S. visas for citizens of seven Muslim-majority countries, in an act the administration says is designed to prevent terrorist attacks by foreign nationals.

Yet counterterrorism experts say that the policy could backfire by providing more fodder for propaganda and recruiting by jihadist groups that aim to demonize the United States.

In interviews, analysts and former counterterrorism officials said the proposed immigration restrictions would reinforce the jihadists binary worldview in which a monolithic West conspires to oppress Muslims across the planet. According to the executive order, the new presidents policy will suspend new visas for people from seven nations: Iran, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen. The executive order targets citizens of those countries almost indiscriminately, a policy that experts say fuels a narrative of American victimization of Muslims, in which jihadist groups market themselves as the resistance to that domination.

There is no doubt in my mind that, wherever they are, propagandists for groups of the likes of the Islamic State will be looking at whats happening and rubbing their hands with glee. Because this is exactly the kind of world they want to inhabit. Its a world that reifies their ideology, says Charlie Winter, a senior research fellow at the International Centre for the Study of Radicalisation and Political Violence in London.

Groups like ISIS and al-Qaeda could use the new restrictions to sway new followers around the world, says Clint Watts, a former FBI counterterrorism special agent and U.S. Army infantry officer.

If anything its going to antagonize the narratives of terrorists. Theyre going to use this as further indication that we have a war with Islam, and theyll use that for marketing purposes, says Watts, who is also a fellow at the Foreign Policy Research Institute, a think tank in Philadelphia.

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Trumps own rhetoric suggests he intends to single out Muslims. The new executive order also closes Americas borders to refugees, and halts the arrival of all Syrian refugees indefinitely. On Friday he said that, once the temporary ban on refugees is lifted, he intends to favor Christian refugees over Muslims. If you were a Muslim you could come in, but if you were a Christian, it was almost impossible, he told Christian Broadcasting News.

Trumps proposals come at a moment when the worlds deadliest terror group, ISIS, is steadily losing ground on battlefields in Iraq, Syria and Libya. As its self-proclaimed caliphate collapses, the group is expected to return increasingly to the tactics of insurgency and traditional terrorism, and rely on a diffuse network of operatives and acolytes around the world. Experts argue that over the long term, defeating ISIS and groups like it requires an effort to discredit jihadist militancy as an ideology. Trumps immigration plan undermines that effort, says Watts.

Its exactly al-Qaedas original narrative from the 90s, when they said that, They dont want you beyond oil. They are not open to Islam. They dont respect it. Its a Christian country that has a bias toward Christianity, he tells TIME. Were talking about winning the war on ideas. How do we win the war on ideas when we just confirmed their idea is correct?

Trumps proposed policy also does not address the problem of jihadist recruits and sympathizers who originate in the United States and Europe. The United Nations estimated in 2015 that more than 25,000 so-called foreign fighters from 100 countries had gone to join militant groups in Iraq and Syria, including around 4,000 from Western Europe. A report by researchers at the George Washington University referred to official estimates of 250 Americans who traveled or attempted to travel to join the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. Separately, a Brookings Institution report found that the variable that most reliably predicts which countries produce the most jihadist recruits was whether the countrys population spoke French. The profile of potential recruits varies wildly. ISIS seeks to recruit followers in the West who may be Muslim or non-Muslim.

In 2016, ISIS militant leaders shifted from urging Western supporters to travel to ISIS-controlled territory, to urging them to plan attacks in their home countries. A message attributed to ISIS spokesman Abu Muhammad al-Adnani last May told supporters, The smallest action you do in their heartland is better and more enduring to us than what you would if you were with us.

Many of the deadliest such attacks in recent years have been carried out by home-grown militants. Omar Mateen, the gunman who massacred 49 people at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Fla., was an American-born security guard. Rizwan Farooq, the health inspector who carried out the shooting at a public service center in San Bernardino, Calif., was born in Chicago. His wife and co-conspirator, Tashfeen Malik, was from Pakistan. Dylann Roof, the unemployed white supremacist who murdered nine African-American churchgoers in Charleston, S.C., was born nearby in the city of Columbia. Abdelhamid Abaaoud, the planner of the brutal attacks in Paris in November 2015, was born in Belgium.

As a result, experts say that even on its own terms, Trumps immigration proposal overlooks the record of militant plots in the United States. Sixteen of the 19 hijackers in the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks came from Saudi Arabia. Weve had no one from these seven countries come and do an attack in the United States, says Watts, referring to Trumps list. If youre going to actually do this on the list that youre going to protect Americans against potential terrorists  I am against any ban, but if youre going to use such a system there are countries that would demand far more scrutiny than the seven they picked.

If a group like ISIS were to attempt to send operatives from abroad, the proposed immigration controls could be circumnavigated.

I dont think that it will have a significant impact because again, there are so many ways to circumvent all of that, be it moving people across our southern border, our northern border, or moving people into the country on board small leisure water craft from Latin America and the Caribbean, says Michael S. Smith II, a leading terrorism analyst whose firm, Kronos Advisory, has briefed the U.S. government.

If you can move tons of cocaine into the United States, you can move hundreds of terrorists into the United States in a year, he adds.
Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg criticized on Thursday President Donald Trumps executive order which reinstates the Global Gag Rule, saying it could have terrible consequences for women and families around the world.

What Is The Global Gag Rule

The executive order reinstates the policy that limits funding for abortion education and procedures around the world, known as the Global Gag Rule. The law, formally known as the Mexico City Policy for the location it was announced in, states that non-governmental organizations outside the U.S. who receive family planning funding from the United States cant provide abortions, educate the public or government on the need for safe abortions or provide advice on where to get an abortion. The policy excludes cases of life endangerment, incest and rape.

The law was repealed by President Bill Clinton, reestablished by President George W. Bush and repealed again by President Barack Obama.

Sandberg Criticizes Trumps Executive Order

In a Facebook post, Sandberg said she saw firsthand while working at the World Bank on health care in India how clinics funded by foreign aid are often the only source of health care for women .

When women are given even the most basic health care information and services, they live longer, healthier lives -- and they give birth to children who live longer, healthier lives, said Sandberg.

The Facebook COO said comprehensive family planning helps avoid unintended pregnancies, deaths and abortions, adding that the rule would make it more difficult.

Sandberg added this ban is harsher and broader than past orders by past presidents, because it covers every program that falls under global health assistance. That means it'll hurt more people.

The COO said the policy has shown its weakness time and time again.

The last time the global gag rule was in effect, research showed more women who lost access to contraception had unwanted pregnancies and abortion rates doubled, she said. The best way to prevent abortion is through more family planning services, not fewer.

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In the post, Sandberg also expressed her support for Sen. Jeanne Shaheens (D-NH) Global Health, Empowerment and Rights (HER) Act to reverse Trumps executive order.

Womens rights are human rights  and there is no more basic right than health care, Sandberg concluded. Women around the world deserve our support.

Sandberg recently met with Trump last month during a tech summit in Manhattan along with other prominent tech leaders, including Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos and Apple CEO Tim Cook.

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The Chinese Lunar New Year, an annual holiday that brings families together to feast and celebrate, begins Saturday. People around the world will revel into early next month as they dine on traditional dishes and relax from work.

The observance  based on astronomical records from an ancient Chinese calendar that has been around since the 14th century B.C.  was initially set aside as a time to honor your household, ancestors and deities. Even though China adopted the Western calendar in 1912, the holiday is still widely recognized worldwide.

Here are a few fast facts to know about it:

While the holiday is celebrated in Asian countries like China, Singapore, Taiwan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam and South Korea, it is also recognized in places like the United Kingdom, France, Canada, German, Australia and the U.S., according to NBC News.

Japan used to be one of the Asian countries that celebrated the Lunar New Year. But in 1873, the Meiji Restoration restored imperial rule, and the Japanese switched to the Western calendar.

A few cities in the U.S. give Chinese New Year school holidays to their students. These include New York City and San Francisco.

The historic Chinese calendar was a lunisolar calendar, which consists of lunar months placed by points in the solar system, according to the Telegraph.

With the traditional holiday also comes traditional foods that typically consist of dumplings, spring rolls, fish and nian gao (rice cakes). From Buddha's Delight to Longevity Noodles, below are easy recipes to follow in accordance with the traditional Chinese holiday.

Nian Gao

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Photo: (REUTERS/DL)

Niano gao, , which translates to year cake, is a year-round dish but is mostly prepared for the new year. Some of the ingredients include glutinous rice flour, wheat starch and a pinch of sea salt or table salt, as well as cane sugar, brown sugar and cold water. Check out the full recipe on how to create the rice cakes here.

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Longevity Noodles

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Photo: (REUTERS/Yuya Shino)

Longevity noodles, , are meant to symbolize length and longevity for the eaters life. They include water, soybean sprouts, salt, Chinese egg noodles and chicken stock. Similar to other Chinese dishes, this recipe also needs soy sauce, sesame oil, peanut oil, fresh ginger, some snow peas and fresh water chestnuts. For steps on how to make longevity noodles, check out this recipe.

Fish

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Photo: (REUTERS/China Daily)

Fish,  , is a common meal for the holiday and symbolizes wealth for those who consume it. The dish is typically prepared whole, however, the way it is prepared and the ingredients can vary from a traditional recipe to something more contemporary. This recipe shows the step-by-step for a steamed fish dish.

Buddha's Delight

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Photo: (Photo by Carl Court/Getty Images)

This dish is usually served on the first day of the Chinese New Year. Its name was derived from how Buddhist monks traditionally ate and enjoyed the meal. The ingredients of the dish, although requiring more items than previous recipes on this list, are viewed as symbols of good luck. This recipe shows you what you need for Buddhas delight.

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(Reuters) - The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Friday warned consumers against using certain homeopathic teething products, saying it has found high amounts of a toxic substance in some of them and they pose a potential risk to infants and children. Laboratory analysis found amounts of belladonna, a toxic substance, that sometimes far exceeded the amount claimed on the label of these teething tablets, the FDA said. Homeopathic teething tablets are used to provide temporary relief of teething symptoms in children. Inconsistent levels of belladonna can cause seizures, excessive sleepiness, muscle weakness and skin flushing in children. The FDA asked Los Angeles-based Standard Homeopathic Co, the manufacturer of Hyland's teething products, to recall the products from the market, but said the company did not agree to the recall. Hyland's said it declined to recall the teething products because it had discontinued them in October after the FDA in September re-opened a 2010 investigation into their safety. That followed another report of a child who had seizure after using the teething tablets. At this time "we don't see any additional action to be necessary," Hyland's spokeswoman Mary Borneman said. The FDA had found over 400 side effects reports, including 10 deaths since 2010, according to several reports at that time. In November, Raritan Pharmaceuticals Inc recalled three belladonna-containing homeopathic products, two of which were marketed by CVS Health Corp. In 2010, Standard Homeopathic voluntarily recalled Hyland's teething tablets from the market to address manufacturing issues. (http://bit.ly/2jnvJsO) (Reporting by Divya Grover in Bengaluru; Editing by Shounak Dasgupta and Leslie Adler)
Five Indian soldiers have been rescued alive after they were buried under heavy snow Saturday in Kashmir, where 20 people were killed by avalanches earlier this week, a military official said.

"All the five soldiers were successfully rescued and are undergoing treatment," Colonel Rajesh Kalia told AFP.

The soldiers had been approaching a border post in Machil, northwest of the main city of Srinagar along the Line of Control (LoC) that divides the territory with Pakistan, when the track they were following caved in.

Another army officer said on condition of anonymity that the five soldiers were in a critical condition and hostile weather prevented them from being flown to a base hospital in the main city of Srinagar 140 kilometres away.

On Wednesday, 15 Indian soldiers died when a patrol and two camps were hit by avalanches in the north of the territory, that is also claimed by Pakistan.

It took rescuers two days to retrieve their bodies from under tons of snow.

Five civilians were also killed this week, including four members of a family when an avalanche ripped through their home as they slept.

Dozens of Indian and Pakistani soldiers lose their lives due to avalanches almost every winter along the LoC.

Indian-administered Kashmir has been witnessing one of the most severe winters in recent decades, with heavy snow across the territory and temperatures dropping to minus seven degrees Celsius (19 degrees Fahrenheit).
By Laurence Frost PARIS (Reuters) - Ford's 2017 earnings will be hit by a delayed currency impact of at least $600 million from Britain's vote to leave the European Union, the U.S. carmaker told Reuters, putting last year's record European profit levels beyond reach. The company will no longer benefit from currency hedges that had been shielding it from the pound's slump since the June 23 referendum, Ford of Europe boss Jim Farley said on Friday. "When Brexit happened we were fully hedged for the first quarter with the stronger pre-Brexit exchange rate," Farley said. "As we enter the rest of the year, especially the second half, we now face the full effects of the weaker sterling." Ford is Britain's biggest engine maker as well as its top-ranked car brand by sales, with a 12 percent market share. The UK government has said it will trigger the two-year process for exiting the EU by the end of March. The pound hit a seven-year low against the euro in October and remains almost one-fifth below its value at the end of 2015, when uncertainty over Brexit began to weigh. Sterling's slump is the "only major headwind" Ford currently faces in Europe, Farley said. "We think it could be upwards of $600 million this year." Farley was speaking a day after Ford published 2016 results that included a record $1.2 billion European profit, while reiterating that this year's global earnings would be lower. Its shares ended 3.3 percent lower on Thursday. TARIFF WARNING Ford, which employs 14,000 workers in Britain and 25,000 in Germany, also repeated warnings against the introduction of trade tariffs with a final Brexit settlement. The company builds engines at two UK sites for vehicles assembled in mainland Europe, many of which are then sold back in Britain. A weaker pound hurts the exchange value of UK revenues and squeezes the profitability of vehicles with euro-denominated parts and production costs. "We've all built our businesses on an integrated model between the UK and the EU," Farley said. "We would expect both entities to work for a free-trade arrangement like (the one) we have today." British Prime Minister Theresa May has said Britain will leave the EU single market to increase control of immigration, while calling for the "greatest possible" market access. But German Chancellor Angela Merkel responded earlier this month that London should not get an attractive Brexit deal that might encourage other departures. (Editing by Alexander Smith)
LONDON (Reuters) - Former Grand National winner Many Clouds collapsed and died after winning a race at Cheltenham on Saturday. The 10-year-old horse crossed the line first in the Cotswold Chase at Cheltenham's Festival Trials Day but collapsed shortly afterwards and was pronounced dead by veterinary staff. Many Clouds, owned by Trevor Hemmings, won the 2015 Grand National and Gold Cup trial and the Hennessy Gold Cup in 2014. Trainer Oliver Sherwood paid tribute to the horse whose death was met by stunned silence at the course. "I always said he'd die for you, and he has today, doing what he loved most," Sherwood was quoted as saying by the BBC. "He wanted to win that race, by God he wanted to win it -- he was beat at the last and he fought the last 50 yards to get up and win. I've trained for 32 years now and horses like that don't come along very often." (Reporting by Martyn Herman; Editing by Clare Fallon)
Paris (AFP) - French investigators have searched the offices of a magazine as part of a widening inquiry into whether presidential candidate Francois Fillon's wife was paid for allegedly fictitious jobs, sources told AFP Saturday.

The raid late Thursday at La Revue des Deux Mondes follows the launch of the investigation into Penelope Fillon's role at the literary monthly, owned by a billionaire friend of her husband, as well as in the French parliament, where she was paid 500,000 euros ($534,000) from public funds over more than a decade.

The satirical weekly Le Canard Enchaine, which broke the story, said the Welsh-born Penelope Fillon had done nothing to earn her salary at the legislature, since it had been unable to find anyone who remembered her working there.

The newspaper also alleged that in 2012 and 2013, Penelope Fillon was paid 5,000 euros a month at La Revue des Deux Mondes, owned by Marc Ladreit de Lacharriere, 76.

In a separate development, a French watchdog for political ethics said Saturday it had handed investigators Fillon's declaration of wealth and business interests.

The High Authority for Transparency in Public Office (HATVP) confirmed a report on the radio station Europe 1, saying it handed over the information in response to a judicial request.

The HATVP was set up in 2013 with the aim of improving transparency and accountability in French politics after a string of high-profile scandals. It is the repository of legislators' declarations and issues rulings on conflicts of interest.

Selected in a primary election on November to be the presidential candidate of the conservative Republicans party, Fillon has suffered a slump in popularity ratings following the revelations.

An opinion poll on Friday found that 38 percent of voters across the political spectrum had a "good opinion" of the former prime minister.

That was a drop of four points from a poll on January 8, and 16 points less than in early November, according to the Odoxa

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survey of 1,012 people.

Fillon said in a TV interview Thursday that he was "disgusted" at the allegations that his wife had done nothing to earn half a million euros from public funds.

He said his wife had "always worked for me" during his four-decade political career and listed tasks she had carried out, including "editing my speeches" and representing him at events.

La Revue des Deux Mondes ("The Review of the Two Worlds") traces its roots to the French literary scene of the early 19th century.

Contributors have included giants such as George Sand, Alexandre Dumas and Alphonse de Musset.

The magazine today is focussed on politics and literary and, coincidentally, devoted its front page this month to Fillon.
PARIS (Reuters) - European countries should respond firmly to Donald Trump whenever the U.S. president undermines the integrity of the European Union by advocating other countries follow Britain's decision to leave the EU. "Whenever there are statements coming from the president of the United States on Europe and whenever he talks of Brexit as a model for other countries, I believe we should respond," Francois Hollande said on the sidelines of a summit in Portugal, according to French media. Southern European leaders were meeting in Lisbon to discuss growing challenges, from the refugee crisis to rising borrowing costs and low economic growth, at a time when rising populism has increased political uncertainty in Europe. Hollande is scheduled to have a telephone conversation with Trump later on Saturday. (Reporting by Michel Rose and Simon Carraud; Editing by Dominic Evans)
Banjul (Gambia) (AFP) - Gambian President Adama Barrow said Saturday that every aspect of his tiny west African state would need an overhaul after ex-leader Yahya Jammeh's 22-year rule, but that its dreaded secret police would remain.

Barrow faces an uphill task after taking over from Jammeh, who left behind a dysfunctional economy and allegedly emptied state coffers ahead of his departure.

Rights group blame the notorious National Intelligence Agency (NIA) under his longtime control for forced disappearances and torture.

Barrow said the NIA was "an institution that has to continue", but that its name would be changed and training would be given to its operatives.

"The rule of the law, that will be the order of the day," he said.

Barrow also addressed one of Jammeh's most controversial declarations, from 2015, that The Gambia was an "Islamic republic".

Barrow, in contrast, insisted the country -- whose population is 90 percent Muslim, with the rest Christian and animist -- was a republic, "not the Islamic republic".

Civil servants would likely return to a five-day work week, breaking with Jammeh's rule that Friday was a day off in line with his Islamic republic rules.

"My government is going to look at every avenue and there will be a complete overhaul of the system," Barrow said, speaking at his first press conference since arriving back from Senegal on Thursday.

The president promised his cabinet would be named early next week so that he could "get the ball rolling", adding he would receive the first comprehensive information about the state of the nation's finances also on Monday or Tuesday.

Jammeh has been accused by a Barrow aide of taking $11 million from the state coffers before leaving for exile in Equatorial Guinea, and diplomats have said the country was already in a precarious financial state.

Barrow's first cabinet pick, Vice President Fatoumata Jallow-Tambajang, has caused controversy as she is allegedly too old to serve, according to current constitutional rules.

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Asked about reform of The Gambia's army, whose poor reputation is partly responsible for the presence of 4,000 west African troops to guarantee Barrow and the population's safety, the president said he expected foreign nations to provide help.

"In the army, if we need technical aid, we will contact countries that are willing to help us," he said.

Controversial army chief Ousman Badjie would however keep his job, he said.

There was "no time set" for the west African force to leave, Barrow added.
Podgorica (Montenegro) (AFP) - Heavily-armed police are guarding the streets of Montenegro's capital after a spike in gangland violence rattled the Balkan country, which is on the brink of joining NATO.

Drug mafia feuds began in the coastal towns of Bar and Kotor, hotbeds of organised crime, where anti-terrorist police swooped in to tackle the deadly rivalries last summer as tourists came and went on cruise ships.

But the troubles have come to the streets of the capital Podgorica in the past few weeks, with two people killed and two others seriously injured in three explosions.

"Recent events in Podgorica and events that preceded them in other towns have understandably provoked the anxiety of citizens, who expect the authorities to do all they can in a merciless struggle against organised crime," said Interior Minister Mevludin Nuhodzic.

He admitted that "in some way, order is threatened".

Twelve people were killed last year as a result of gang feuds in the country of 620,000 people, whose tourism sector is growing under the threat of powerful organised crime.

In one incident in September, a sniper shot a prisoner dead in broad daylight in a yard in Montenegro's highest-security jail in Podgorica. The man had been jailed for extortion.

The recent spike in attacks has resulted in dismissals and resignations at the top of the police force and an intensified presence on the streets.

After nightfall for the past several days, heavily-armed officers have patrolled the squares of the capital, closely monitored customers in bars and cafes and carried out tight security checks on cars.

So far they have seized several guns, drugs and one vehicle, but no arrests over the Podgorica blasts have been announced.

Residents of the capital fear becoming collateral damage of the warring gangs.

"This has crossed all limits... the whole society is descending into the underworld. I am afraid of innocent people being killed," said Milos, 45, an economist who witnessed the latest blast in the centre of Podgorica on January 19.

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A young man with a criminal record was killed in the explosion and the passenger in his car had to have her leg amputated.

- 'Unbearable' -

Another resident in the capital, 47-year-old lawyer Ana, described the situation as "unbearable" and wondered "what has prevented the authorities from strengthening their fight against crime?"

Local people who spoke to AFP were reluctant to give their family names for security reasons.

Nuhodzic insisted the government was "taking permanent action. Our goal is to create insecurity for criminals".

But Nebojsa Medojevic, a leader of the main opposition Democratic Front alliance, said the security situation was "worrying" and that there was a "political character" to Montenegro's organised crime.

"There are no boundaries between the state and crime," he told reporters on Friday.

NATO signed an accession agreement with Montenegro last year, paving the way for the country to become the 29th member of the Western military alliance.

So far more than 20 of the 28 NATO allies have ratified the accession of the former Yugoslav republic, which is also a candidate for European Union membership.

But mountainous Montenegro, which declared independence from Serbia in 2006, has struggled to contain the widespread scourge of organised crime and related violence. The EU regularly urges authorities to do more.

- Political links? -

Last summer, dozens of anti-terrorist police descended on the medieval fortress town of Kotor, a popular tourist destination on the Adriatic coast, after a string of public shootouts between rival drug-trafficking gangs.

Nine men were later arrested over the violence.

Montenegro's veteran leader Milo Djukanovic stepped down after his party only narrowly topped an election in October, handing the prime ministership to a close ally. But many Montenegrins still see Djukanovic as the real boss.

The former PM, who led the country towards closer ties with the West, is accused by critics of links to organised crime, which he denies.

On election day authorities arrested of a group of Serbians whom they accuse of plotting to seize parliament and assassinate Djukanovic.
BERLIN (AP)  German Chancellor Angela Merkel and U.S. President Donald Trump discussed conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine on Saturday and agreed on the importance of NATO during their first call since Trump's inauguration, according to joint statement by Merkel's office.

The two leaders had an "extensive phone conversation" in which they also talked about relations with Russia, said Merkel's spokesman Steffen Seibert.

"They expressed their intention to further deepen the already excellent bilateral relations in the coming years," Seibert said.

On NATO, both agreed on the "fundamental importance that the NATO alliance has for trans-Atlantic relations" and the need for all members to pay their fair share. Trump has repeatedly said some U.S. allies don't spend enough on their militaries.

In the joint statement, there was no mention of refugees, not even of Trump's move on Friday banning refugees from several Muslim-majority countries from entering the United States. That move drew sharp criticism Saturday from French President Francois Hollande, Germany's European Union ally, among others.

Trump had severely criticized Merkel during his election campaign, claiming she was "ruining" Germany by allowing hundreds of thousands of asylum-seekers into the country.

In turn, Merkel had raised eyebrows after Trump's victory by insisting that the basis for cooperation between Berlin and Washington should be "democracy, freedom and human rights worldwide, and to strive for an open and liberal world order."

Seibert said Trump accepted Merkel's invitation to attend the G-20 meeting in Hamburg, Germany, in July. Trump also said he looked forward to welcoming Merkel in Washington "soon," according to the statement.

It was the second time Trump and Merkel have spoken by phone. They first spoke when the German chancellor called Trump shortly after the election to congratulate him on his victory.
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President Donald Trump's "Muslim ban" is causing fear and chaos among immigrants everywhere  even at Google.

As immigrants, visa holders and refugees tried frantically to make it into the United States after Trump signed an executive order banning entry to the U.S. from seven majority Muslim countries on Friday, Google moved to protect its own staff.

Google CEO Sundar Pichai told staffers that more than 100 employees were affected by the ban and ordered all affected employees who were abroad to return stateside immediately, Bloomberg reported.

"Its painful to see the personal cost of this executive order on our colleagues," Pichai wrote in a memo to Google staff obtained by Bloomberg. "Weve always made our view on immigration issues known publicly and will continue to do so."

Trump's order prohibits entry into the United States for 90 days for people from Syria, Iraq, Iran, Sudan, Somalia, Yemen and Libya. Refugees who have been approved to enter the U.S., valid visa holders and longtime permanent residents with green-cards have all been detained and in some cases denied entry in the hours since the order was signed.

Sudanese ctzn flew in last night, handcuffed, questioned at NY. Landed at 11. Allowed in at 4am. Had GC for 22 yrs. PhD student at Stanford.  Mana Yegani (@Law_Mana) January 28, 2017

To be clear, Muslim travelers with valid visas are now being detained on arrival in the US pic.twitter.com/qyPHTBHJFn  Jim Sciutto (@jimsciutto) January 28, 2017

"Were concerned about the impact of this order and any proposals that could impose restrictions on Googlers and their families, or that could create barriers to bringing great talent to the U.S.," a Google spokesperson said in an emailed statement to Mashable. "We'll continue to make our views on these issues known to leaders in Washington and elsewhere."

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At Microsoft, the company is providing legal assistance to employees affected by the order. The company said at least 76 employees were affected.

"As an immigrant and as a CEO, Ive both experienced and seen the positive impact that immigration has on our company, for the country, and for the world. We will continue to advocate on this important topic," CEO Satya Nadella wrote in a blog post published late Saturday afternoon.

The blog post included an internal memo sent to Microsoft employees that promised to provide legal assistance and said employees could ask questions about the ongoing issue at a question-and-answer session on Monday.

One of Microsoft's best-known executives, Steven Sinofsky, who left the company several years ago, posted a comment (see below) regarding the new policies and how they may impact Microsoft via his Facebook account.

Sharing a FB post. pic.twitter.com/BP8dR72SGl  Steven Sinofsky  (@stevesi) January 28, 2017

Amazon declined to comment on the travel ban to BuzzFeed's Charlie Warzel, he said on Twitter, and did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Mashable.

Unsurprising: Amazon declined to comment on the refugee ban.  Charlie Warzel (@cwarzel) January 28, 2017

Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg also expressed concern over Trump's immigration proposals yesterday, invoking his family history and that of his wife, Priscilla Chan.

"My great grandparents came from Germany, Austria and Poland. Priscilla's parents were refugees from China and Vietnam. The United States is a nation of immigrants, and we should be proud of that," the Facebook chief executive wrote in a Facebook post. "Like many of you, I'm concerned about the impact of the recent executive orders signed by President Trump."

The American Civil Liberties Union and other challengers have already filed suit over the executive order.

BONUS: The moment Donald Trump became president of the United States
GEORGETOWN, Guyana (AP)  Guyana's government has approved a request from a Chinese miner to buy out Canada's Reunion Gold Corporation's manganese assets and mine in the country's northwest.

Chinese miner Bosai Minerals Group already mines for bauxite in southeastern Linden Town. Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman said Saturday it will begin construction of the new mine by midyear, with employment for up to 1,500 people initially.

Reunion agreed to sell its Matthews Ridge assets late last year, blaming low international prices.

The project involves new jungle roads, mills, water and mining waste disposal facilities.

Manganese is used in steel production. It was last mined in Guyana in 1968.

The Matthews Ridge project has been stalled by low and volatile prices for the metal.
By Timothy Mclaughlin

CHICAGO (Reuters) - Chicago Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson said after nearly fainting on Friday that he suffers from a chronic kidney ailment that requires a transplant in the near future, but said he expects to return to work following the surgery.

Johnson, 56, told reporters at police headquarters that the light-headedness he felt during an earlier news conference was nothing more than the fleeting result of taking blood pressure medication on an empty stomach.

Video of the incident showed the police superintendent, standing alongside Mayor Rahm Emanuel, begin to stagger as Emanuel asked if he was "OK." The news conference ended abruptly and Johnson was helped to a chair.

Police department spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said later Johnson did not lose consciousness, had walked to his car on his own afterward and went to a nearby hospital, where he was checked by doctors and released.

Johnson said at his follow-up media gathering hours later his bout of dizziness was unrelated to his kidney disorder, glomerulonephritis, a condition he said he was first diagnosed with 32 years ago when he underwent medical tests as a young police recruit.

Johnson said he has since managed the disease without medication, and without it affecting his ability to lead a normal life.

However, Johnson said he had reached the point where a kidney transplant was necessary soon and that he was on a waiting list for an operation, which is yet to be scheduled.

"Once a donor is found and the operation takes place, I should be back to work in somewhere between three to five weeks," he said. Doctors had given their blessings for him to remain on the job until then, he said.

Johnson was named superintendent last March. His predecessor, Gerry McCarthy, was ousted amid public outrage that the city delayed for more than a year the release of a video showing a black teenager being fatally shot by a white officer.

Johnson's selection answered calls from civic leaders for an African-American veteran of the force to be chosen.

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The mayor said he remained confident in Johnson's ability to do his job, and for his support staff to run the department during Johnson's recovery.

Friday's news conference was held to highlight increased use of technology aimed at aiding police officers' fight against violent crime. Chicago, the third-largest U.S. city, struggled last year with a surge in murders.

(Reporting by Timothy Mclaughlin and Karen Pierog in Chicago; Additional reporting and writing by Steve Gorman in Los Angeles; Editing by Matthew Lewis, Leslie Adler and Paul Tait)
Kendallville, IN (46755)

Today

Rain showers along with windy conditions. High around 65F. Winds S at 25 to 35 mph. Chance of rain 70%. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies. Low 41F. Winds SW at 15 to 25 mph. Higher wind gusts possible.
Lisbon (AFP) - French President Francois Hollande urged Europe to form a united front and provide a "firm" response to US President Donald Trump, at a gathering Saturday of southern European Union leaders.

"We must conduct firm dialogue with the new American administration which has shown it has its own approach to the problems we all face," he said at the end of the gathering as he was flanked by the other leaders who took part.

Trump has rattled America's traditional European allies with a range of radical policy plans.

He has called NATO "obsolete", announced he would rip up a planned transatlantic trade plan and supported Britain's move to leave the EU, praising the decision as "a wonderful thing" during a meeting Friday with British Prime Minister Theresa May.

On Friday he also signed a sweeping executive order to suspend the arrival of refugees and impose tough controls on travellers from seven Muslim countries.

"When he adopts protectionist measures, which could destabilise economies not just in Europe but the economies of the main countries of the world, we have to respond," Hollande added.

"And when he refuses the arrival of refugees, while Europe has done its duty, we have to respond."

Trump was due to speak Saturday with Hollande, as well as German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

- Ready to cooperate with Trump -

While officially the new administration in Washington was not on the agenda, the six other European leaders who took part in the summit also alluded to Trump.

Italian Prime Minister Paolo Gentiloni said Europe was "ready, interested and willing to cooperate" with the Trump administration.

"But we are Europe, and we cherish our values," he added.

Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy defended the EU project, saying it had helped transform Europe into the world region with the "highest level of progress, civil rights and well being".

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Also meeting in Lisbon were the leaders of Malta, Cyprus, Greece and Portugal.

The summit was a follow up to a first gathering in Athens in September 2016 as part of a push by Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras to create a strong southern "axis" to counter the influence of nations in northern Europe.

The group is often referred to -- sometimes dismissively -- as "Club Med", even though one of its members, Portugal, is not on the Mediterranean.

It includes some of the nations hardest hit by the financial crisis.

Portugal and Greece both needed international bailouts worth tens of billions of euros which came with demands for tough austerity measures and economic reforms.

- Boost investment -

As in the first meeting in Greece, the mostly centre-left leaders gathered in Portugal urged Brussels to do more to boost flagging growth in the bloc.

A joint declaration signed by the participating countries said the EU should boost funding for strategic investment.

"We share the urgency of promoting investment, growth, employment, with a special focus on youth employment," it read.

The Lisbon summit comes ahead of a February 3 meeting of EU leaders in Malta to look at the future of the bloc without Britain, its second-largest economy and its richest financial centre.

Rajoy said Madrid would host a third summit of southern EU nations in April.

"These countries meet informally and they have no other goal other than to work for the people of the entire European Union," he said.

The goal is not to create an "organisation" inside Europe but to act "in the service of the entire European Union," added Hollande.

The so-called Visegrad group -- made up of Hungary, Slovakia, the Czech Republic and Poland -- have also held their own meetings to present a united front.
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Determined to reverse eight years of a Democratic administration, House Republicans are on track to overturn a handful of rules finalized in President Barack Obama's final months in office to deal with climate change, federal contracting and background checks for gun ownership.

Opponents criticize the regulations as job killers that will hold the U.S. economy back. Now, they're turning to an oversight tool used successfully only once before to void a rule issued by a federal agency.

All that will be required to make the regulation invalid is a simple majority of both GOP-led chambers approving a joint resolution of disapproval  and the president's signature. The House will take the first crack this week.

A look at the regulations being targeted:

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Rule to reduce methane emissions on public and tribal lands

The Interior Department updated its regulations to require oil and gas producers to limit flaring, the controlled burning of natural gas for safety, maintenance and other reasons. Also required are inspections for leaks and replacement of equipment that vents large quantities of gas into the air. Most of the gas being burned is methane, a powerful greenhouse gas that's potent at trapping heat.

FOR: Environmental groups said the rule will reduce up to 180,000 tons of released gas annually, a small step in slowing global warming. They also say that reducing the amount of gas lost through flaring means more gas will be captured to pay for the necessary updates to equipment and power hundreds of thousands of homes.

AGAINST: Industry groups said the rule comes at a time when methane emissions are already falling, and combined with other new regulations, will drive energy production off federal lands. That means less federal revenue and higher costs for consumers.

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Rule to lessen the environmental impact of coal mining on nearby streams

The rule would maintain a buffer zone that blocks coal mining within 100 feet of streams, but imposes stricter exceptions to the 100-foot rule. It also beefs up requirements for monitoring water quality and restoring corridors near streams to protect fish and wildlife.

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FOR: Environmental groups and some Appalachian residents say greater protections are needed to preserve healthy drinking water and ensure mining companies don't leave an environmental mess after mining ceases.

AGAINST: Coal mining companies are already facing pricing pressures from greater reliance on natural gas and renewables, and they said the rule would lead to the loss of tens of thousands of direct mining jobs and many thousands more indirectly as massive volumes of coal would become too expensive to mine.

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Rule to increase disclosure requirements for federal contractors

The rule requires prospective and existing contractors to disclose violation of 14 federal labor laws when bidding on contracts. The information would be included as part of a contracting officer's decision to award or extend a contract.

FOR: Labor unions say contractors who cut corners with worker protections are likely to cut corners in other ways, too. And that can be a bad deal for taxpayers and employees.

AGAINST: Business groups said the new rule will add compliance costs for many companies, and smaller firms especially will find the risk outweighs the reward for performing government work. Others fear that government officials will include violations not fully adjudicated to deny granting a contract to a company.

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Rule requiring companies to disclose payments made to the U.S. and foreign governments relating to mining and drilling.

The rule stems from passage of the Dodd-Frank law in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis.

FOR: Advocacy groups such as Oxfam America say that greater transparency allows citizens in some of the world's most impoverished countries to hold their governments accountable for the wealth generated through mining and drilling.

AGAINST: Industry groups such as the American Petroleum Institute and U.S. Chamber of Commerce unsuccessfully filed suit to stop the rule. They said it requires U.S. companies to hand over key details of how they bid and compete while many foreign competitors are under no obligation to do the same.

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Rule requiring the Social Security Administration to forward the names of certain disabled beneficiaries to the Justice Department for inclusion in the National Instant Criminal Background Check System

Following the 2012 Newtown, Connecticut, massacre, President Barack Obama directed the Department of Justice to provide guidance to agencies regarding information they are obligated to report to the background check system. The Social Security Administration issued a final rule Dec. 19. Under the rule, SSA will forward the names of beneficiaries with mental impairments who also need a third party to manage their benefits. The rule would affect an estimated 80,000 beneficiaries between age 18 and retirement. Those who have their names reported would have a right to appeal.

FOR: Some groups seeking stricter gun laws and family members of the disabled expressed support. The Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence said it appreciated the agency's efforts to submit pertinent information to keep guns out of the hands of those "that we all agree should not have access to them."

AGAINST: Gun rights groups led by the NRA said the regulation would strip from the "most vulnerable in America" the right to keep and bear arms. Advocacy groups for the disabled also weighed in, including a federal agency charged with advising the president and Congress on government policy. The National Council on Disability said there is no nexus between the inability to manage money and the ability to safely possess and use a firearm.
BARCELONA, Spain (AP)  Protesters rallied Saturday in Barcelona over what they considered an out-of-control tourism boom that has damaged their ability to live and work in the northeastern Spanish city.

A soaring tourism business has fueled higher prices for rent and property sales, leaving many of the city's 1.6 million residents priced out of the city center.

Under a large banner saying "Barcelona is not for sale," protesters marched and read a manifesto in which they denounced the tourist boom has overtaken the city. Local police said over 1,000 people demonstrated in the famed central walkway of Las Ramblas, while protesters estimated the total as closer to 2,000.

"This march is a way to portray the fact that we have lost our city, and are hoping to claim it back. Rent and property prices have risen back to what they were in 2008, before the economic crisis, and residents can no longer afford them," said Camilo Ramos, 63, a representative of the Barcelona Neighbors Association.

Despite fierce opposition from hotel and business owners, the City Council agreed Friday to curb the number of rooms for tourists in the city. Many protesters felt the move fell short of expectations.

"It was a necessary measure, but it's still not enough. We need to decrease the number of hotels and increase public space for residents," said Anna Moreno, a 59-year-old high school professor.

Asha Nen, a visiting 35-year-old French engineering assistant, watched the scene from a distance.

"We are enjoying our stay, although it's true that the city is quite full. Some locals seem to be weary of us tourists," she said.
Cairo (AFP) - An Iraqi family was barred from flying from Cairo to New York on Saturday after US President Donald Trump signed an order restricting arrivals from seven Muslim countries.

Egyptian officials said the family had visas and were in transit when they were prevented from boarding the EgyptAir plane to New York's JFK airport.

Fuad Sharef, 51, and his wife and three children were instead forced to board a flight back to Arbil in Iraq's autonomous region of Kurdistan, he told AFP.

Trump had on Friday signed a sweeping executive order to suspend refugee arrivals and impose tough controls on travellers from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

"I had sold my house, my car, my furniture. I resigned from work and so did my wife. I took my children out of school," said Sharef of the family's preparations to resettle in Nashville, Tennessee under a special immigrant visa.

Back in Arbil, the pharmaceutical industry manager, who had previously worked for an NGO subcontracted by the US aid agency, said he was devastated.

"Donald Trump destroyed my life. My family's life. I used to think America was a state of institutions but it's as though it's a dictatorship," he said.

"For a decision like this to come out and be implemented immediately, and against whom? Against a valid visa holder."

"I put my life at risk, working with the Americans at a time that it could have gotten you killed," he added.

The family had been barred at Cairo after a flight manifest was sent to JFK airport, which responded with instructions that they were not to board, according to airport officials.

EgyptAir's website has not provided updated travel advice for the United States.

Qatar Airways, one of the largest Middle East airlines, said on its website that citizens of those seven countries could still travel to the United States if they had a permanent residence permit.

The Qatari travel alert said government officials and their immediate family members, as well as representatives of international organisations were exempt from the restrictions.
MOSUL, Iraq (AP)  Iraqi forces discovered a mustard chemical warfare agent in eastern Mosul alongside a cache of Russian surface-to-surface missiles, an Iraqi officer said Saturday.

Iraqi and U.S. officials have repeatedly warned of Islamic State group efforts to develop chemical weapons. When Iraqi forces retook Mosul University earlier this month, they found chemistry labs they believed had been converted into makeshift chemical weapons labs.

Iraqi special forces Brig. Gen. Haider Fadhil said French officials tested the Mosul chemical this week and confirmed it was a mustard agent. Fadhil did not specify the quantity or potency of the chemical, but Iraqi soldiers were able to visit the site for about ten minutes without exhibiting any symptoms of exposure.

"We know that they were using this place to experiment with chemical weapons," he said, referring to IS.

Fadhil said he believes the facility was set up in the Nineveh ruins  an ancient site just over 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) from the Tigris, but removed from the city's dense neighborhoods  to keep it a secret from Mosul residents who might be passing information to Iraqi forces and the U.S.-led coalition.

Iraqi forces showed journalists a tank of the chemical agent and a warehouse of more than a dozen surface-to-surface rockets bearing Russian inscriptions.

The number of casualties due to IS chemical weapons is a small fraction compared to the hundreds of civilians killed in car and suicide bombings carried out by the group. Experts say that is largely due to the low grade of the weapons and the group's lack of access to efficient delivery systems.

The types of rockets found at the site suggest the Islamic State group was attempting to weaponize the chemical agent, Fadhil said. He added that he believed the facility was being used up until just one or two weeks ago.

Iraqi forces declared Mosul's eastern half fully liberated, just over three months after the operation to retake the city from IS was formally launched in October.
JERUSALEM (AP)  Israel's Health Ministry says a top official who recently met with the secretary general of France's far-right political party was unaware of the person's identity  and the meeting was stopped once it became clear.

Health Ministry Spokesman Eyal Basson says Saturday the ministry's deputy director general attended a meeting billed as focused on medical cooperation and did not know Nicolas Bay represented the National Front. Basson says within five minutes the meeting was halted

Israel has no official ties to the party because of its far-right ideology and history of anti-Semitism. Party leader Marine Le Pen is a leading presidential candidate in the upcoming election.

Bay tweeted photos of his meetings with various Israeli officials. Those with an army colonel and the Health Ministry official were later deleted.
Jerusalem (AFP) - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu took to Twitter on Saturday to hail new US President Donald Trump's decision to build a wall on the border with Mexico.

On Wednesday, Trump signed an executive order telling officials to begin to "plan, design and construct a physical wall" along the 3,200-kilometre (2,000-mile) US-Mexico border, making good on a campaign pledge.

In an interview with American channel Fox News on Thursday Trump justified his decision, citing Israel which, he said, had managed to "stop 99.9 percent" of illegal immigration by constructing a wall.

He was referring to the more than 240-kilometre barrier Israel completed in 2014 along its border with Egypt, a route previously taken by many African illegal immigrants and traffickers.

"President Trump is right. I built a wall along Israel's southern border. It stopped all illegal immigration. Great success. Great idea," Netanyahu tweeted in English, adding the Israeli and American flags.

Several hours later, foreign ministry spokesman Emmanuel Nahshon said in a tweet, also in English, that Netanyahu "referred to our specific security experience which we are willing to share. We do not express a position on US-Mexico relations."

Netanyahu, who heads one of the most right-wing governments in the history of the Jewish state, has not hidden his admiration for the new US president.

The Israeli premier's most nationalist allies see in Trump's administration the chance to continue building Jewish settlements in occupied east Jerusalem and the occupied West Bank.

Israel announced a major settlement expansion in the days after Trump's January 20 inauguration.

On Sunday, the city planning committee approved building permits for 566 settler homes in east Jerusalem.

Two days later, the defence ministry announced plans for 2,500 settler homes in the occupied West Bank.

And on Thursday, Israeli officials gave final approval to 153 east Jerusalem settler homes.

The announcements have deeply concerned those seeking to salvage a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
ROME (AP)  First, Pope Francis encouraged women during baptism ceremonies in the Sistine Chapel to nurse their crying, hungry babies. Now an Italian minister says there soon will be a directive to public offices making clear that women are welcome to nurse there, too.

Public Administration Minister Marianna Madia tweeted that "nursing shouldn't be banned anywhere."

On Saturday, Italy's postal system, Poste Italiane, said in a statement that nursing isn't banned in its post offices. It rejected a complaint by a woman, initially posted on Facebook and picked up by Italian media, that post office officials in the northern town of Biella had told her she couldn't nurse her son and denied her the use of a bathroom to clean him.

Poste Italiane says they'll contact the mother to address the "misunderstanding."
ROME (AP)  A Milan judge on Saturday ordered Silvio Berlusconi to be tried on corruption charges, damping the former Italian premier's hopes of running soon for office again after being sidelined by a tax-fraud conviction.

The Italian news agency ANSA, reporting from Milan, said Judge Carlo Ottone De Marchi, after a hearing on an indictment request by prosecutors, set the trial to begin April 5 in that city.

Milan daily Corriere della Sera says the former three-time premier is accused of having shelled out some 10 million euros plus expensive gifts to some 20 young women who attended sexy parties at his Arcore villa near Milan. Prosecutors allege Berlusconi aimed to "buy" the women's silence in various trials involving him.

Berlusconi's lawyers have denied any wronging by their client. One of them, Federico Cecconi, told reporters Berlusconi faces "the first trial for the crime of generosity."

Berlusconi, 80, heads the center-right Forza Italia party, which is now in the opposition.

The latest indictment stems from an investigation into whether the payments constituted corruption in judicial proceedings or if the billionaire media mogul was legitimately helping the young women, who were invited to the so-called bunga-bunga parties at his residences.

Last year, a judge ordered a trial for Karima el-Mahroug and 22 others accused of accepting bribes and lying on the stand to protect Berlusconi in his trial on charges of having paid for sex with el-Mahroug when she was an underage teenager and he premier, and then using his influence to cover it up.

Berlusconi was acquitted in the sex-for-hire case on appeal.

His corruption case, which led to Saturday's indictment, had been separated from those of others due to his health issues.

A 2013 tax fraud condition forced him out of his Senate seat and left him barred from holding public office for the next few years.

Berlusconi has challenged the ban, bringing his case to the European Court of Human Rights. He was stripped of his office under a 2012 law preventing anyone sentenced to more than two years in prison from holding or running for public office for at least six years.

Berlusconi says in his case, being stripped from office amounts to retroactive punishment, since the tax fraud case dates back before 2012.

A Italian national election is due in 2018. But it might be held later this year, after Democratic Party leader Matteo Renzi resigned the premiership last month after a stinging defeat in a referendum on his reform agenda.
By Kiyoshi Takenaka and Roberta Rampton TOKYO/WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe agreed on Saturday to meet early next month, affirming the importance of bilateral ties while setting the stage for potentially sensitive trade talks. Trump's administration has put the focus of the Abe visit, one of the first summits of the new presidency, on starting bilateral trade talks. Japan says it is preparing for all contingencies in dealing with Trump, who pulled America out of an Asia-Pacific trade deal Japan had championed and who has said Japan does not offer fair access to U.S. carmakers. "President Trump affirmed the ironclad U.S. commitment to ensuring the security of Japan," during a telephone call in which they agreed to meet in Washington on Feb. 10, the White House said. Abe told reporters that at the coming meeting, "I would like to have a candid exchange of views on the economy and security issues as a whole." The two leaders discussed the automotive industry, said senior government spokesman Koichi Hagiuda, without giving details. The White House statement said the two "committed to deepen the bilateral trade and investment relationship." Trump has threatened a "border tax" on imports into the United States and has said Japan has unfair barriers to foreign auto imports. Japanese officials have pointed out that there are no tariffs on foreign car imports into Japan and maintain there are no discriminatory non-tariff barriers. Trump and Abe agreed on the importance of economic ties between the world's No. 1 and No. 3 economies, said Hagiuda, Abe's deputy chief cabinet secretary. On security, the two discussed a visit this week by Defense Secretary James Mattis, the first trip to the region by a Trump cabinet member. "President Trump and Prime Minister Abe said they would consult and cooperate on the threat posed by North Korea," the White House said. (Reporting by Kiyoshi Takenaka and Roberta Rampton; Additional reporting by Lesley Wroughton; Editing by Ralph Boulton and David Evans)
Tokyo (AFP) - The number of foreign workers in Japan topped 1 million for the first time last year, the government has said, as the country looks overseas to offset labour shortages.

Tokyo has moved little on loosening strict rules for foreign workers despite years of calls to crack open Japan's borders to more immigrants.

But Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has unveiled a plan to review the rules, saying foreign labour will increasingly be needed, particularly in the booming construction industry ahead of the Tokyo Olympics 2020.

A record 1,083,769 foreigners were working in the country at the end of October, up 19.4 percent from a year earlier, the labour and welfare ministry said on Friday.

The number of Chinese workers, topping the foreign labour list, gained 6.9 percent to some 345,000, accounting for nearly one third of the total, it said.

Vietnamese ranked second, jumping 56.4 percent to some 172,000, followed by Filipinos at 128,000, up 19.7 percent.

The ministry said the jump largely reflected an increase in the number of foreign students and highly skilled workers.

Rapidly-ageing Japan is desperately short of workers to pay the taxes to fund pensions and healthcare for its growing grey population, but it is almost constitutionally allergic to immigration, allowing only a small number of unskilled workers into the country.

The government has now decided to expand the country's industrial training programmes to allow foreign workers to stay five years instead of three.

Japan has also revised immigration law to accept more nurses and caregivers to work in the healthcare sector.
Donald Trump and Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe agreed Saturday to a face-to-face meeting next month, as the US president pledged his "ironclad commitment" to Tokyo's security.

The two leaders, who agreed to meet in Washington on February 10, agreed to work together to counter the threat posed by North Korea's nuclear program and deepen bilateral trade and investment, the White House said in a statement.

They discussed the importance of the US-Japan alliance, and Trump "affirmed the ironclad US commitment to ensuring the security of Japan."

Trump's conversation with the Japanese leader kicked off a busy day in which the president was also to speak with the leaders of Australia, France, Germany and Russia.

The chat with Abe came days after Trump formally withdrew the United States from the Trans-Pacific Partnership, a vast trade deal encompassing a dozen nations that Abe has backed enthusiastically.

US participation is seen as key to the agreement and Abe has said he would keep trying to convince Trump of its merits. The trade deal was negotiated under former president Barack Obama. Trump yanked the deal before the US Congress was able to consider ratification.

Abe was the first world leader to meet the US president-elect in New York, visiting Trump just nine days after Americans voted him into office in a surprise victory.

The meeting stirred controversy when Trump's daughter, Ivanka, a former model and current business executive with no formal role in Trump's presidency, was seen in attendance.
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In the chaotic, heartbreaking wake of Donald Trump's "Muslim ban," Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau is projecting a markedly different message.

On Saturday, Trudeau tweeted in solidarity with refugees, including those unable to enter the United States under the president's executive order. "To those fleeing persecution, terror & war, Canadians will welcome you, regardless of your faith," he said. "Diversity is our strength."

SEE ALSO: Google recalls staff abroad as Trump's Muslim ban takes effect

To those fleeing persecution, terror & war, Canadians will welcome you, regardless of your faith. Diversity is our strength #WelcomeToCanada  Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) January 28, 2017

The prime minister also tweeted a photo of himself welcoming a refugee family at a Canadian airport. "Bienvenue au Canada (Welcome to Canada)," he wrote.

Trudeau's divide with Trump on the refugee crisis is no surprise  Canada is well-known for its ambitious refugee resettlement program. Since November 2015, the country has welcomed over 39,000 refugees from Syria alone, the very country on which Trump has imposed an indefinite ban.

Earlier this month, Trudeau appointed Ahmed Hussen, a lawyer, activist and former refugee who fled to Canada from Somalia in 1993, as Canada's Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship. (Under Trump's order, Somali citizens are banned from entering the United States.)

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Trudeau has also displayed a clear emotional attachment to the cause. In December, he famously teared up as recent transplant Vanig Garabedian described how grateful he was to live in Canada.

President Trump has not yet responded to Trudeau's tweets.
By Duncan Miriri NAIROBI (Reuters) - Kenya's Safaricom is reallocating funds to build up its fixed-data network to connect homes to the Internet, as demand grows for online streaming services like Netflix, chief executive Bob Collymore told Reuters. The fixed-data market in Kenya is dominated by Wananchi Group's Zuku brand and Jamii Telecoms. Safaricom, Kenya's biggest telecoms company, has until recently been focusing on mobile Internet access. It is 40 percent-owned by Britain's Vodacom. "We have been a bit lazy in growing our data business," Collymore said. Safaricom's Internet provision business grew by about 40 percent in its first half to the end of last September. That was well below the 52 percent growth rate for other African operators and 62 percent in the rest of the world. Collymore said its investments in the fixed data network were a reallocation of its budget and would not add to its planned capital expenditure. Safaricom's capital expenditure in its year to end March is 32 billion shillings ($310 million), Collymore said, without giving a breakdown. "The big investment is in fibre." "We are certainly putting more in fibre than we thought we would do ... It is a change in priorities," he said. Collymore said Safaricom had already connected 6,000 homes to its new fixed-data network, using fibre and poles. "That is a cheaper way of delivering the data requirements of homes because ideally you want to have unlimited data," he said in an interview on Friday. He said the move was driven by growing local demand to download or stream content such as the science fiction drama Sense 8 on Netflix. "We want to give people solutions they can use to access a Netflix movie or a ShowMax movie, not just on the TV, on Tablet or on phone," he said. ShowMax, owned by South Africa's Naspers, is an Internet-based video service that has partnered with Safaricom to recruit new customers in Kenya. Safaricom spent $25 million on a license for the provision of fourth generation (4G) Internet and it has rolled out the network to Kenya's major urban centres. It also has 2G and 3G networks running in parallel for customers who do not have smart phones that can accommodate faster speeds and for customers in the rural areas. Collymore said Safaricom was keeping its earlier guidance of 97 billion shillings in earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) in its financial year to the end of March. "The second half is in line with our expectations," he said. ($1 = 103.8500 Kenyan shillings) (Editing by Ruth Pitchford)
Rome (AFP) - The Knights of Malta's sovereign council has officially accepted its chief's resignation, the Order said Saturday, following a month-long bitter power battle linked to a row over condoms.

Grand Master Matthew Festing resigned his lifetime position Tuesday, at the request of Pope Francis, effectively putting an end to a prolonged stand-off that had become a test of the reforming pope's authority over rebellious Church conservatives.

The sovereign council thanked Festing in a press release "for his great commitment during his nine years in office" and said the pope had been notified of its decision.

The council also said it accepted the Vatican's decision to name a papal delegate to oversee "the spiritual renewal of the Order," a Church-linked charity body descended from the crusaders of the Middle Ages.

The Order's number two, Grand Commander Ludwig Hoffmann von Rumerstein will serve as the Knights' interim chief until a new head is elected.

In what was a key sticking point of the dispute, the sovereign council also reinstated the Order's number three, Grand Chancellor Albrecht von Boeselager, dismissing disciplinary actions against him.

Von Boeselager's dismissal last month sparked the unprecedented and very public row between the Vatican and the Knights.

Francis appointed a five-strong team to examine the circumstances in which von Boeselager was forced out of his job, but the Knights refused to cooperate.

Reports in the specialist Catholic press suggested von Boeselager was targeted because Order charities he oversaw had taken part in a programme distributing free condoms.

Conservatives say this violates Church teaching but it has been deemed acceptable by Francis and his predecessor Benedict XVI.

The dispute was seen by Holy See watchers as a proxy war between Church liberals and conservatives, led by American cardinal Raymond Burke, who has acted as the Vatican's liaison with the Order since being sidelined from more important roles by Francis.

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Burke is a prominent conservative figure who has been outspoken in his criticism of Francis' efforts to reform Church teaching on questions related to the family, marriage and divorce.

Von Boeselager's dismissal was widely interpreted as being the result of him being too liberal for Burke's tastes.

The Order of Malta was founded in Jerusalem in 1048 as a community of hospitals caring for the sick.

The Order was recognised by the pope in 1113 and operates in 120 countries, managing hospitals and clinics, with 13,500 members and 100,000 employees and volunteers.

In its press release, the sovereign council said it was "most grateful" to Pope Francis for his "interest in and care for the Order".
By Matthew Ponsford LONDON (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - More than 300,000 people living on the edge of Lagos' lagoon may be spared eviction after a court ruled that planned demolitions of waterfront slums would be "inhuman and degrading", campaigners said. A Lagos State High Court ruled Thursday that the state government must enter into mediation with dozens of eviction-threatened communities that ring the lagoon at the heart of Nigeria's largest city to discuss their fate. Lagos-based legal campaign group Justice and Empowerment Initiatives (JEI) said the ruling was unprecedented in Nigeria. "We've never before had a ruling like this that forced eviction and demolition constitutes a violation of the rights of dignity," Megan Chapman, co-director of JEI, told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. JEI said the ruling could mark a turning point in the battle over housing in the fast-growing city of 23 million people, obliging the state government to find alternatives to demolitions. In November, demolitions and what police said was fighting between rival communities forced more than 30,000 people from their bamboo homes in Otodo Gbame, a waterfront slum in Lagos' Lekki neighbourhood. The clearance came a month after Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode announced plans to evict all waterside shanties. Lekki is a prime site for investors, who have built luxury apartments, skyscrapers and waterside restaurants. Witnesses filmed fires and bulldozers being used to destroy makeshift homes as police forced residents into the lagoon, where hundreds spent the night sleeping in wooden canoes. JEI said it had documented 11 people killed during and in the aftermath of the evictions, including two children. The state government and police did not respond to a request for comment from the Thomson Reuters Foundation. Leilani Farha, U.N. special rapporteur on the right to adequate housing, told the Thomson Reuters Foundation she was pleased the court had taken forced evictions seriously. "To read about an order preventing an eviction where dignity relationships are being taken very seriously - human dignity, human life, torture, cruel and unusual punishment - it brings the weight of the situation to light," said Farha. "Forced evictions are used in the name of development - and the grave human rights implications are so often lost." The government, police, and lawyers for slum communities have been ordered to meet again in court after an initial dialogue lasting a month, during which time all evictions will be halted. Nigerian Slum and Informal Settlement Federation, an NGO working with slum communities, said in October it had identified 40 communities threatened by the eviction plans and said more than 300,000 residents risked being turfed out of their homes. Governor Ambode said evictions across the city are necessary to protect Lagos residents from kidnappers and criminals hiding in the slums. JEI said it had demanded the state withdraw "ridiculous" suggestions that the slum communities are sheltering militants from Niger Delta extremist groups and Boko Haram. Charities have provided emergency aid to Otodo Gbame's residents as they begin to rebuild their homes on the burned site of their previous dwellings, JEI said. (Reporting by Matthew Ponsford, Editing by Paola Totaro.; Please credit the Thomson Reuters Foundation, the charitable arm of Thomson Reuters, that covers humanitarian news, women's rights, trafficking, property rights, climate change and resilience. Visit http://news.trust.org)
After learning to use a laser engraving machine in a Vietnamese engineering school, Nguyen Van Minh is now putting the technology to an unexpected use: decorating fruit.

It is a modern twist on the traditional custom of hand-carving designs into watermelons on the occasion of the lunar new year, a holiday known as Tet in Vietnam that kicks off on January 28.

"Laser carving is more accurate and better for small patterns. Plus, the designs are more diverse," the 27-year-old entrepreneur told AFP as a laser beam rapidly etched an elaborate rooster design into the green rind of a bowling ball-sized melon.

From giant pomelos to gold-dusted coconuts, Vietnam's markets fill up with an array of novelty fruits ahead of Tet.

The designer produce is often gifted to colleagues and relatives, or kept at home as decorations.

Minh's Hanoi-based company is now churning out scores of decorated and polished melons at a fraction of the speed that it takes traditional carvers to chisel away at the fruit's peel by hand.

In the Chinese zodiac's Year of the Rooster, the bird is without a doubt this season's must have emblem.

Other popular designs include dragons, phoenixes and messages wishing good fortune or wealth.

Yet at about $1.50 to $3.50 a pop, Minh says his company has yet to be graced by riches.

"Our profits are not good, but we still want to do it because this is a new business, and also because were passionate about it," he told AFP.

As far as wishes for the new year, Minh says he only has one: a fruitful business.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The Latest on U.S. President Donald Trump and his ban on refugees from Muslim-majority countries (all times local):

3 a.m.

The Homeland Security Department says a New York court order temporarily barring the U.S. from deporting people from nations subject to President Donald Trump's travel ban will not affect the overall implementation of the White House executive action.

The agency said the court order affected a relatively small number of travelers who were inconvenienced by security procedures upon their return.

The department's statement said: "President Trump's Executive Orders remain in place prohibited travel will remain prohibited, and the U.S. government retains its right to revoke visas at any time if required for national security or public safety," according to the DHS statement.

Stephen Miller, a senior adviser to the White House, said that nothing in the judge's order "in anyway impedes or prevents the implementation of the president's executive order which remains in full, complete and total effect."

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11 p.m.

Foreign-born U.S. residents who could have been barred from re-entering the United States under President Donald Trump's immigration order have been allowed back into the country.

That's according to a Department of Homeland Security official who briefed reporters on Saturday night. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because the official wasn't authorized to publicly discuss details of the matter.

Trump's order Friday barred citizens of seven Muslim-majority nations from entering the United States for 90 days. That meant that even those with permanent residency "green cards" or other visas risked not being let back in to the United States.

However, the official said all green card holders from the seven countries who sought to enter the U.S. Saturday were granted special permission.

It's not clear if other green card holders will be admitted. The official said cases are being reviewed individually.

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 Alicia Caldwell

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9:40 p.m.

A federal judge in New York has issued an emergency order temporarily barring the U.S. from deporting people from nations subject to President Donald Trump's travel ban.

U.S. District Judge Ann Donnelly issued the order Saturday evening after lawyers for the American Civil Liberties Union filed a court petition on behalf of people from seven predominantly Muslim nations who were detained at airports across the country as the ban took effect.

Cheers broke out in a crowd of demonstrators outside a Brooklyn courthouse as the decision, effective nationwide, was announced.

The order barred U.S. border agents from removing anyone who arrived in the U.S. with a valid visa from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen.

It also covered anyone with an approved refugee application.

It was unclear how quickly the order might affect people in detention.

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7 p.m.

New York City's Kennedy Airport became a scene of anguish Saturday for relatives of people detained after arriving in the U.S. from nations subject to President Donald Trump's travel ban.

Lawyers and advocates working at the airport say they didn't have a hard count on the number of people taken into custody after getting off their flights.

Yosre Ghaled was among about a dozen distraught people waiting at a terminal Saturday to see if loved ones would be released or deported.

She says her mother-in-law's sister had been detained.

The 67-year-old Yemeni citizen had flown to the U.S. to live with family because she is sick from heart problems and diabetes.

Two members of congress joined hundreds of protesters at the airport, demonstrating against the detentions.

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1 a.m.

The government of Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto is taking exception to the Israeli prime minister's praise of a border wall to keep out illegal immigration.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Twitter Saturday that "President Trump is right" for building a wall.

"I built a wall along Israel's southern border," he wrote. "It stopped all illegal immigration. Great success. Great idea."

Mexico's Foreign Ministry said in a communique that it had expressed its "profound surprise, rejection and disappointment in the prime minister's message on Twitter" to Israel's ambassador. "Mexico is Israel's friend and should be treated as such."

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12:20 a.m.

President Donald Trump says his crackdown on refugees and citizens from seven majority-Muslim countries "is not a Muslim ban."

A day after signing an executive order implementing the ban immediately, Trump says it's "working out very nicely."

But confusion, worry and outrage boiled over Saturday as airlines blocked people from traveling to the United States and legal challenges were mounted.

Included is a 90-day ban on travel to the U.S. by citizens of Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen. The U.S. refugee program is suspended for 120-days.

Trump's order imposed the most aggressive ban on Syrians, indefinitely blocking entry to the U.S. by anyone from that country, including those fleeing civil war.

___

12:10 a.m.

Airlines around the world are turning away passengers, refunding tickets and rebooking flights in the aftermath of President Donald Trump's immigration order.

The order signed Friday included a 90-day ban on travel to the U.S. by citizens of Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia or Yemen. It also suspended the U.S. refugee program for four months.

That forced airlines to tell some customers they couldn't proceed on flights to the U.S.

Dubai-based Emirates said a small number of its passengers were affected Saturday, and it was helping them rebook. Delta Air Lines and British Airways both said they were offering refunds for passengers who couldn't complete their trips.

Several airlines, including Qatar Airways, posted travel alerts on their websites warning customers about the changes.

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11:50 p.m.

In Tehran, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif says his country's decision to not issue give Americans visas will not be retroactive.

Zarif says on Twitter: "Unlike the U.S., our decision is not retroactive. All with valid Iranian visa will be gladly welcomed."

U.S. visa restrictions that took effect on Saturday for people from several countries, including Iran, ban travel even for those who already had American visas.

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11:20 p.m.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has a message for refugees rejected by U.S. President Donald Trump: Canada will take you.

Trudeau tweeted Saturday "To those fleeing persecution, terror & war, Canadians will welcome you, regardless of your faith. Diversity is our strength #WelcomeToCanada ."

Trudeau also tweeted a picture of him greeting a Syrian child at Toronto's airport.

Trudeau oversaw the arrival of more than 39,000 Syrian refugees soon after he was elected in late 2015.

The young prime minister has been reluctant to criticize President Donald Trump. His government has been trying to balance his liberal view of the world while not offending the new Trump administration.

More than 75 percent of Canada's exports are to the U.S.

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10:20 p.m.

An Iraqi who was detained overnight at a New York City airport because of President Donald Trump's ban on refugees from certain Muslim nations has called America "the land of freedom" after being released from custody.

Hameed Khalid Darweesh worked as an interpreter for the U.S. Army when it invaded Iraq in 2003. Later he was a contract engineer for the U.S.

He was granted permission to relocate to the U.S., but was detained along with another traveler from Iraq after arriving at John F. Kennedy Airport Friday night.

Lawyers petitioned a federal court early Saturday to let them go. Two Democratic U.S. Representatives, Nydia Velazquez and Jerrold Nalder, were at the airport trying to get 11 other detainees released.

After he was freed Saturday, Darweesh told a waiting crowd that "America is the greatest nation, the greatest people in the world."

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9:50 p.m.

In Somalia, people are reacting with dismay and warnings that countries could retaliate against the United States' new immigration and visa policies with restrictive policies of their own.

"I am shocked beyond words. This will mean that my new husband will never be able to join me in the U.S.," said Fatima Ashkir, a Somali-American woman from Florida who came to Mogadishu to marry her Somali boyfriend.

Others say they are not surprised at President Donald Trump's executive order imposing a three-month ban on refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Somalia.

"His intentions of hurting rather than to help were clear from the very beginning," said Ahmed Abdullahi, a university student in Mogadishu. "But you have to know that this will have a serious effect on relations between Americans and the Muslim world. A tit-for-tat response by Muslim countries, in which Americans could be barred from entering countries affected, is likely to be seen."

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8:30 p.m.

Iran's foreign ministry is suggesting the country will limit issuing visas to American tourists in retaliation for U.S. President Donald Trump's suspension of immigration and visas for nationals from Muslim countries including Iran.

The official IRNA news agency Saturday carried a statement by the Iranian foreign ministry that says Iran will resort to "counteraction" to Trump's executive order.

The statement says: "Iran, to defend the dignity of the great Iranian nation, will implement the principle of reciprocity until the removal of the insulting restriction against Iranian nationals."

The statement adds: "It will apply corresponding legal, consular and political actions."

The two countries have had no diplomatic relations since 1979 when militants stormed the U.S. embassy.

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8 p.m.

Cairo airport officials say five U.S.-bound Iraqi migrants from one family who have been prevented from boarding an EgyptAir flight to New York's John F. Kennedy airport would return to Iraq.

They said the five will spend Saturday night at Cairo airport and leave for Irbil, capital of Iraq's Kurdish region, Sunday morning.

They added that the sixth U.S.-bound migrant, a Yemeni national, left the airport to return to Cairo, where he resides.

The officials said Saturday's action by the airport was the first since President Donald Trump imposed a three-month ban on refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries: Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen.

The officials said the six migrants, escorted by officials from the U.N. refugee agency, were stopped from boarding the plane after authorities at Cairo airport contacted their counterparts in JFK airport.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to brief the media.

(This story corrects the number of U.S.-bound Iraqi migrants to five, not six)

 Hamza Hendawi.

___

7:05 p.m.

Dutch airline KLM says it has had to turn away seven would-be passengers because they would no longer have been accepted into the United States under President Donald Trump's ban on immigration from seven Muslim-majority nations.

Manel Vrijenhoek, at KLM's press office, said: "We would love to bring them there. That's not the problem. It's just that this is what the U.S. sprang on the rest of the world  that these people are no longer welcome."

She said the seven were due to fly with KLM from different airports around the world. Vrijenhoek said she had no specifics on their nationalities, although she confirmed they were from countries affected by the three-month immigration ban: Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen.

Trump signed the order Friday.

___

6:40 p.m.

A U.S. federal law enforcement official says any non-U.S. citizen from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia or Yemen is now barred from entering the United States.

That covers legal permanent residents  green card holders  and visa-holders from those seven countries who are out of the United States after Friday, when President Donald Trump signed an executive order with the temporary ban. They cannot return to the U.S. for 90 days.

The official says there's an exemption for immigrants and legal permanent residents whose entry is in the U.S. national interest, but it's unclear how that exemption will be applied.

The official says visa and green card holders already in the U.S. will be allowed to stay.

The official wasn't authorized to publicly discuss the details of how Trump's order is being put in place and spoke only on condition of anonymity.

Customs and Border Protection is notifying airlines about passengers whose visas had been canceled or legal residents scheduled to fly back to the U.S., and the airlines are being told to keep them off those flights.

 Alicia Caldwell

___

6:35 p.m.

Israel's leader has endorsed President Donald Trump's plan to build a wall along the Mexican border.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu tweeted Saturday that Israel's wall along its border with Egypt has been successful in stopping a swell of African migrants.

"President Trump is right. I built a wall along Israel's southern border. It stopped all illegal immigration. Great success. Great idea," he wrote, with images of the Israeli and American flag.

The tweet marked a rare public foray for the Israeli leader into a charged American domestic affair. The two leaders spoke earlier this week and Netanyahu is planning to visit Trump in the White House next month.

After repeated clashes with President Obama, Netanyahu has high expectations for Trump, who has signaled he will take a kinder approach.

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5:45 p.m.

Malala Yousafzai, shot in the head by the Pakistani Taliban in 2012 to stop her campaigning for girls' education and co-winner of the 2014 Nobel peace prize, says she is heart-broken by U.S. President Donald Trump's ban on refugees from entering the United States for four months.

The order Friday suspends a program that saw around 85,000 people displaced by war, political oppression, hunger and religious prejudice resettled in the U.S. last year. Trump indefinitely blocked people fleeing Syria's civil war, and imposed a 90-day ban on U.S. entry from seven Muslim majority nations.

In a statement Saturday, Yousafzai implores Trump "not to turn his back on the world's most defenseless children and families."

Refugees and immigrants, she says, have "helped build your country."

Trump's mother was born in Scotland.

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5:15 p.m.

Qatar Airways is advising passengers bound for the United States from seven newly banned majority Muslim countries that they need to have either a U.S. green card or diplomatic visa to travel.

A statement on the company's website says: "Nationals of the following countries: Sudan, Libya, Somalia, Syria, Iran, Iraq, Yemen ... may travel to the U.S. only if they are in possession of a permanent resident card (Green card) or any of the below visas."

It listed foreign government, United Nations, international organization and NATO visas.

President Donald Trump has issued a 90-day ban on all entry to the U.S. from countries with terrorism concerns, including Syria, Iraq and Libya.

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3 p.m.

Cairo airport officials say seven U.S.-bound migrants  six from Iraq and one from Yemen  have been prevented from boarding an EgyptAir flight to New York's John F. Kennedy Airport.

The officials said the action Saturday by the airport was the first since President Donald Trump imposed a three-month ban on refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries: Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen.

The officials said the seven migrants, escorted by officials from the U.N. refugee agency, were stopped from boarding the plane after authorities at Cairo airport contacted their counterparts at the Kennedy airport.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to brief the media.

 Hamza Hendawi.

___

2:45 p.m.

The head of a leading refugee aid agency says President Donald Trump's decision to ban Syrian refugees hurts innocents fleeing violence.

Jan Egeland of the Norwegian Refugee Council tells The Associated Press on Saturday that Trump's decision "will not make America safer, it will make America smaller and meaner."

Trump on Friday suspended refugee admissions for four months and indefinitely banned those from war-torn Syria, pending program changes that are to ensure refugees won't harm national security.

Egeland says the decision dealt a "mortal blow" to the idea of international responsibility for those fleeing persecution. He says the U.S. is leading a "race to the bottom" in which politicians in wealth countries provide "zero moral leadership."

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1 p.m.

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani says the time has come for removing walls between nations rather that building new ones.

Rouhani did not name any particular country but his remarks come shortly after President Donald Trump's executive order Friday suspending all immigration and visa processes for nationals from a handful of countries with terrorism concerns, including Iran, for 90 days.

Rouhani said Saturday that, "It is not the day for creating distance among nations."

Speaking at a tourism conference broadcast on state TV, Rouhani said that those seeking to create such walls, "have forgotten that the Berlin Wall collapsed years ago."

___

12:30 p.m.

The International Rescue Committee is calling President Donald Trump's suspension of the U.S. refugee resettlement program a "harmful and hasty" decision.

In a statement issued late Friday night after the suspension was announced, IRC President David Miliband said, "America must remain true to its core values. America must remain a beacon of hope."

The IRC statement declared that the U.S. vetting process for prospective refugees is already robust  involving biometric screening and up to 36 months of vetting by "12 to 15 government agencies."

Miliband praised The United States' record as a resettlement destination and said, "This is no time for America to turn its back on people ready to become patriotic Americans."
MARYVILLE, Mo. (AP)  The parents of an autistic man allege in a lawsuit that police in northwest Missouri punched him and used a Taser on him seven times.

The parents of Christopher Kramer, who was an 18-year-old high school special education student when the incident occurred, filed a lawsuit Thursday against three Maryville officers, a Nodaway County deputy and a Highway Patrol trooper. The lawsuit says Kramer has "impairments in comprehension and speech."

The lawsuit stems from an incident on May 6 when a Missouri Highway Patrol trooper called police after seeing Kramer in his front yard. Kramer had stopped to tie his shoe, but became frightened and ran when the trooper called out to him, according to the lawsuit. Kramer told a Maryville dispatcher that Kramer was "kinda headed toward my front door." After chasing him and shouting commands, officers tackled Kramer to the ground and shocked him multiple times with a Taser.

In a statement Friday, Maryville City Manager Greg McDaniel defended the city's officers and said they didn't know about "Kramer's personal circumstances."

According to the lawsuit, after being tackled and shocked once with the Taser, Kramer "confused, frightened and in pain, and not understanding at all what was happening or why, continued to struggle, cry that he wanted to go home and ask why 'police car coming.'" He was shocked six more times, the lawsuit says, and after he "made contact" with two officers, one of them allegedly punched him in the head several times before handcuffing him.

Kramer was later released to his parents and not charged after being checked by the ambulance crew.

The Kramer family is seeking an unspecified amount in damages for wrongful detention and use of excessive force.

McDaniel said in his statement that while the city understands the family's concerns, "the reality of law enforcement is that officers must make split-second decisions based on the behaviors and circumstances they witness while protecting their community."

"There simply is no way any officer could have known Mr. Kramer's personal circumstances before this issue transpired," McDaniel said. "Officers immediately responded with care and compassion upon discovery of Mr. Kramer's situation. We are confident the facts will become clear through the legal process."
Bar Elias (Lebanon) (AFP) - Shivering in their makeshift homes in camps in eastern Lebanon, Syrian refugees ask what they have done to deserve being barred from the United States.

On Friday, US President Donald Trump signed a sweeping new executive order to suspend refugee arrivals and impose tough controls on travellers from seven Muslim countries, including Syria.

More than one million Syrians have sought refuge in Lebanon from the devastating conflict in their homeland that has killed more than 310,000 people.

Over a third live in makeshift housing in the Bekaa valley near the Syrian border, where temperatures have dropped below freezing in recent days.

"What on earth have the Syrian people done to deserve this?" asks Abu Mahmoud al-Ghol, standing in the cold at one informal camp in the Marj area.

"And to think it's a democratic country doing it," says the 44-year-old, who fled the Syrian town of Quseir with his six children to seek refuge in Lebanon.

"We reject the decision. But what can we do about?" he says, his face appearing tired and drawn above a salt-and-pepper beard.

Nearly six years of conflict in Syria have driven more than half the population from their homes, with many fleeing abroad.

- 'Show some solidarity' -

Trump's executive order cuts the number of refugees the United States plans to resettle in fiscal year 2017 -- which is calculated from last October -- from 110,000 to 50,000.

The United States has only let in 18,000 Syrian refugees since the war began in 2011, a former US official has said.

The United Nations on Saturday urged Trump to continue his country's "long tradition" of welcoming refugees, regardless of race, nationality or religion.

At another informal camp in the Bekaa, a Syrian mother-of-four says Trump's order is unjust.

"He has no right to take such a decision," says Ibtisam Yusef, 41, her face wrapped in a green scarf.

"What's his problem if we enter the United States legally? What have we done to him?" she asks as stands outside her tent in the Bar Elias area.

Story continues

Because Lebanon has not signed the 1951 UN Refugee Convention, it treats Syrians as foreigners, not refugees.

Syrian refugees struggle to get by in Lebanon despite aid from international organisations. Those who register for residency must pledge not to work.

"He should come and see how we live in the camps," says Yusef, who fled her home in the rebel bastion of Eastern Ghouta outside Damascus.

"He and European countries should show us some solidarity."
Civil liberties groups are challenging Donald Trumps executive order barring all immigration from seven majority-Muslim nations for 120 days, which the president signed Friday evening. Donald Trump also temporarily canceled admissions from the entire U.S. refugee program.

On Saturday morning, the Department of Homeland Security confirmed that legal permanent residents of the United States with green cards are included in the ban, and will not be allowed to reenter the country. Later, the agency said they would decide on a case-by-case basis. As officials raced to understand the new executive order, U.S. green card holders from Iran and the six other countries were reportedly kicked off flights, sent back to their country of origin or detained at airports. (The banned countries are Syria, Iraq, Iran, Sudan, Somalia, Yemen and Libya.)

Less than 24 hours after Trump signed the order, at least three lawsuits challenging the ban have been filed or are in the works. The ACLU filed a lawsuit in federal court Saturday on behalf of two Iraqi men who were detained at John F. Kennedy Airport on Friday night. The men were both granted visas before Trumps order was signed, but were detained upon arriving in the United States, due to the order.

One of them, Hameed Darweesh, was released Saturday afternoon. He was granted a special immigrant visa for his service to the U.S. Army as a translator for 10 years in Iraq. We know America is the land of freedom, he said in a brief press conference after his release, adding that he was grateful to the country for accepting him.

The ACLU is going forward with its lawsuit on behalf of the other detained man. It seeks an immediate injunction barring the Trump administration from blocking immigrants based on his executive order, arguing that the order is illegal based on a a 1965 law banning discrimination in immigration based on national origin.

The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson, aimed to end earlier quota systems that gave preference to immigrants from European nations. As David Bier of the libertarian Cato Institute argues, this law prevents immigrants from being discriminated against based upon the persons race, sex, nationality, place of birth or place of residence. If Trump wants a ban on entry from these countries  even temporarily  he needs Congress to pass that law, Bier argues.

Story continues

Trump is relying upon a 1952 law that allows president to suspend the entry of any class of aliens if they disadvantage the United States. But Bier and other legal scholars believe the 1965 law supersedes that right.

The 1965 law is clear, said legal scholar Erwin Chemerinsky, the dean of the law school at the University of California at Irvine. The law prohibits discrimination based on national origin. This is discrimination based on national origin.

The ACLU is also considering crafting a new challenge arguing that the executive order violates the establishment clause of the Constitution, which prevents the government from favoring one religion over another.

Donald Trump has made it very clear that this is designed to disfavor Muslims on the one hand and to favor Christians on the other, David Cole, the legal director of the ACLU, told Yahoo News. He told Christian Broadcast News that that was the whole purpose of it: to give priority to Christians.

Trump told Christian Broadcast News on Friday that he would give Christians the priority in the refugee program.

Its black-letter establishment clause law that the government cannot take sides between religions, Cole said. The order on its face does that.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) is also filing a lawsuit in federal court with 20 plaintiffs who argue that the intent of the executive order is to ban people of the Islamic faith from Muslim-majority countries from entering the United States  a violation of the establishment clause.

The apparent inclusion of green-card holders from the seven countries in the ban is likely to present its own raft of lawsuits.

They have at least a statutory right to reside in the United States permanently and to return to the United States, Cole said. To the extent that President Trump has sought to override that statutory right, yes, they might be another problem.

About 500,000 people from these seven countries have received green cards over the past decade, ProPublica estimates.

Mana Yegani, an immigration lawyer in Houston, said she has been up all night fielding calls from family members and friends worried that their loved ones who hold green cards wont be able to return to the country. One of her clients, a U.S. green card holder from Iran, works for Chevron in Houston and was due to arrive in the city at around 4 p.m.

Im waiting on standby to see what happens to him, she said. Im very concerned.

Read more from Yahoo News:

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Related slideshows:

Slideshow: Protests against Trumps travel ban hit the streets of NYC >>>

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Slideshow: Protests at U.S. airports over travel ban >>>
ANGOLA  Angola High School artists won Gold and Silver Keys in this years Scholastic Art and Writing Awards.

On Feb. 12, students in the region will be honored at a ceremony at the Grand Wayne Center. The art can be viewed at the Fort Wayne Museum of Art, 311 E. Main St., Fort Wayne, Feb. 12 through April 9.

Gold Key entries are sent for the national Scholastic Art competition to be judged against other Gold Key pieces from across the nation. This years national ceremony will be held June 8 at Carnegie Hall in New York City.

Angola High School had two Gold Key winners this year, sophomores Novalea Boots and Michelle Gudiel.

My inspiration for my project was when I went on vacation to Clearwater, Florida with my family, said Boots. I wanted to use a picture of the trip that meant something to me and that picture sticks in my mind every day.

The image is a textured, cutout body with a face that is a colorful sunset.

I think my piece stood out to the judges by how it was unique by using the sunset picture I took as my face and changing up my portrait, Boots said.

Gudiels entry is titled Tangled Fantasy.

Silver Key recipients include junior Andrew Quick for his ceramic pot with horse hair detail and sophomore Lars Harmon for his piece, Reading in the Tall Grass on a Perfect Day.
lcardenas@kpcmedia.com

A number of northeast Indiana residents made their way to the nations capitol recently, some to rally in a new president and others to protest what they believe that president represents.

Inauguration

Northeast Indiana residents were among the nearly half a million people who gathered in Washington on Jan. 20 for the 58th presidential inauguration

President Donald Trumps speech was effective and made an impression on the sons of Emery McClendon, said the FedEx courier of Fort Wayne. McClendons sons, who are both in their 30s, voted for Hillary Clinton. But, McClendon, a supporter of the Tea Party movement, convinced his sons to attend the inauguration with him. While McClendon is all about putting America back on the right track again, his sons arent convinced that Trump should be the conductor.

His eldest son, Jeremy McClendon, said the inauguration was enlightening. During the visit with his family to D.C., hes learned more about how to get in contact with local legislators and how to help others make connections.

As a social worker, my concern is that Im interested in making sure everyone gets what they need, Jeremy McClendon said.

He appreciated Trumps gestures of inclusion when speaking of patriotism.

When you open your heart to patriotism, there is no room for prejudice, Trump said.

He added that the country should pursue solidarity.

We all bleed the same red blood of patriotism  we all salute the same great American flag, he said.

Witnessing the transition of power was also a first for Brian Bauer, CEO of Lutheran Health Network in Fort Wayne. He described the experience as overwhelming and emotional.

Its such an important part of our history as a country, he said.

The Hoosier spirit is something Indiana Senate Pro-tem David Long, of Fort Wayne, hopes the nations capital will catch. He defines this as being conservative and living within your means. He and his wife, Melissa, both attended the inauguration.

This was the first presidential inauguration experience for Bob Taylor, who recently retired as CEO of Do It Best Corp. based in Fort Wayne. Taylor said he couldnt miss the opportunity to witness history in which he too has a personal connection.

He worked with Vice President Mike Pence when Pence, as governor, chaired the Indiana Economic Development Corp. Taylor is hopeful for the business practices that Pence can help lead in Washington.

I think so much of him as an individual, Taylor said of Pence.

Womens march

But not everyone who made the trip to Washington was there to celebrate.

Among the hundreds of thousands of participants in the Womens March on Jan. 21 were local residents who arrived on a bus that brought 56 northeast women and men from Fort Wayne. Others made the trip by themselves or with family members.

All came either to protest Trump winning the election or to show support for human rights and equality  ideals they believe are under threat given Trumps election.

Im here marching because I cant be a bystander anymore, said Chrissy Weadick, of Fort Wayne, who took the bus from the Summit City to participate in the D.C. march. Women need to be taken seriously. We want to be treated equally.

Packed in like sardines, people stood back to back, shoulder to shoulder despite not being able to hear the speakers such as celebrated feminist Gloria Steinem speak on the stage outside the National Museum of the American Indian near the National Mall.

Energy and enthusiasm are at a fever pitch, said Faith Van Gilder of Fort Wayne, who found herself in the middle of a crowd near the main stage. Im marching because I despise Trumps misogynist behavior and anti-immigrant rhetoric. Like John Lewis said, Hes an illegitimate president.

Nearby, men and women chanted, This is what democracy looks like.

Pink hats, shaped to look like they had kitten ears, were on the heads of many participants at the march.

Lisa Vetter, of Fort Wayne, taught herself how to knit so that she could make herself one of the hats that she and many present referred to as a pink pussy hat, in reference to the infamous Access Hollywood video footage in which Trump bragged about being able to grab women by the genitals.

The trip to Washington was a first for Vetter and she proudly stood among the masses, holding a sign that read, United we stand and free to be you and me.

The election and resulting lineup of cronies is absurd. The people did not elect Donald Trump, Vetter said. This is not the America I or anyone here wants to be a part of. When I heard about this gathering, I knew I had to come and stand in unity with my sisters and brothers in the fight for freedom and fairness. United we stand!

Rachel Tobin-Smith, of Fort Wayne, also came with a message of unity and out of disgust at the Access Hollywood video footage of Trump.

My daughter, Gabriel, and I are thrilled to be part of this impressive crowd of men and women of varying races, ethnicities, abilities and sexual orientations, she said. I continue to march against locker room talk and believe that violence starts with words. Violence against women is violence against children.

Hoosier activist Deborah Dorman, an Indianapolis real estate agent, said that about 5,000 men and women were estimated to arrive from Indiana for the march. Seven buses brought people from Indianapolis, she said.

I absolutely knew I had to be here, she said. Im an activist who is all about human rights  womens rights, civil rights, LGBT rights. I have got to speak for those who cannot speak for themselves. If I have to march for the next four years, I will do that.
Credits: Getty

Facebook (FB) founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg posted a status update slamming President Donald Trumps decision to sign executive orders on immigration.

Like many of you, Im concerned about the impact of the recent executive orders signed by President Trump, he wrote.

The post continued: We need to keep this country safe, but we should do that by focusing on people who actually pose a threat. Expanding the focus of law enforcement beyond people who are real threats would make all Americans less safe by diverting resources, while millions of undocumented folks who dont pose a threat will live in fear of deportation.

This is a personal matter for Zuckerberg. He noted that his great-grandparents came from Europe and that his wife Priscillas family were refugees from China and Vietnam.

Zuckerbergs Facebook status also came as Trump was unveiling a pair of executive orders, including one reportedly calling for a temporary halt to all refugees.

Secondly, Im establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America. We dont want them here. We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas. We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people. We will never forget the lessons of 9-11, nor the heroes who have lost their lives at the Pentagon. They were the best of us. We will honor them not only with our words, but with our actions. And thats what were doing today. I am privileged to be here with you, and I promise that our administration will always have your back. We will always be with you, Trump said according to a White House press pool report.

Earlier in the week, Trump ordered additional orders aimed to crack down on illegal immigration, including a measure expanding the authority of local law enforcement officers to enforce immigration laws, among other policies. Critics say the policy, known as Secure Communities, will make victims and other people less likely to cooperate with the police if they are worried about their immigration status. Trump also announced that it was his administrations policy to immediately begin construction of a wall along the U.S.-Mexican border.

Story continues

Heres the full post:

My great grandparents came from Germany, Austria and Poland. Priscillas parents were refugees from China and Vietnam. The United States is a nation of immigrants, and we should be proud of that.

Like many of you, Im concerned about the impact of the recent executive orders signed by President Trump.

We need to keep this country safe, but we should do that by focusing on people who actually pose a threat. Expanding the focus of law enforcement beyond people who are real threats would make all Americans less safe by diverting resources, while millions of undocumented folks who dont pose a threat will live in fear of deportation.

We should also keep our doors open to refugees and those who need help. Thats who we are. Had we turned away refugees a few decades ago, Priscillas family wouldnt be here today.

That said, I was glad to hear President Trump say hes going to work something out for Dreamers  immigrants who were brought to this country at a young age by their parents. Right now, 750,000 Dreamers benefit from the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program that allows them to live and work legally in the US. I hope the President and his team keep these protections in place, and over the next few weeks Ill be working with our team at FWD.us to find ways we can help.

Im also glad the President believes our country should continue to benefit from people of great talent coming into the country.

These issues are personal for me even beyond my family. A few years ago, I taught a class at a local middle school where some of my best students were undocumented. They are our future too. We are a nation of immigrants, and we all benefit when the best and brightest from around the world can live, work and contribute here. I hope we find the courage and compassion to bring people together and make this world a better place for everyone.



Julia La Roche is a finance reporter at Yahoo Finance. Follow her on Twitter.
Ankara (AFP) - Fresh from talks with US President Donald Trump, Prime Minister Theresa May will meet Turkish leaders in Ankara Saturday, hoping to expand ties and seal a new trading relationship before Britain leaves the EU.

On a one-day visit to the Turkish capital, her first since becoming premier, May will hold talks with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Prime Minister Binali Yildirim.

While some EU states have been wary of sending top officials to Turkey following the July 15 failed coup and ensuing crackdown, May will follow several senior British ministers who have visited Ankara in recent weeks.

And symbolically, her visit to Turkey is the last leg of a trip which took her to the White House as the first foreign leader to be hosted by Trump.

Turkey, which has sought to join the European Union since the 1960s, has long seen Britain as one of the most enthusiastic supporters of its troubled bid.

But following Britain's June vote to leave the bloc, both sides are now looking to bring a new dynamic to relations, with London seeking to firm up post-Brexit trade deals with non-EU states.

- 'Engagement with Turkey' -

May's spokeswoman said increased security cooperation, especially on aviation, and a new trade relationship post-Brexit would top the agenda at the talks.

Following the failed coup, Turkey's relations with the EU have become strained, with Brussels sharply criticising the extent of the ensuing crackdown, and Ankara deploring Europe's failure to show solidarity.

The spokeswoman emphasised that there were no issues May would steer away from, including human rights and freedom of the press.

"The Prime Minister's approach is quite clear - she thinks it's important, and in the UK's national interest - to engage with Turkey on a range of issues - from defence and security cooperation to capitalising on trade opportunities," she said.

She added: "I don't think there are any issues that the prime minister is afraid to bring up."

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- 'Unsavoury rulers' -

Ahead of May's visit, Britain's Trade and Investment Minister Mark Price held a series of meetings with Turkish ministers in Ankara.

Bilateral trade between the two countries amounted to more than $16 billion (14.9 billion euros) in 2015, Turkish figures show, with Britain the second most important country for exports and 11th in terms of imports.

Three months after the Brexit vote, Foreign Minister Boris Johnson made a colourful visit to Turkey during which he said Britain was seeking a "jumbo free trade deal" with Ankara.

Noting that trade ties were already significant, Johnson said he was the "proud" owner of a Turkish washing machine and acknowledged that Britain's iconic Jaffa Cake biscuits were owned by a Turkish confectionary giant.

He also ebulliently brushed off the embarrassment of penning the winning entry in an offensive poetry competition about Erdogan which was published by The Spectator magazine earlier in the year.

Back in the UK, MPs have urged May not to let her eagerness to promote trade overshadow human rights concerns over Turkey's post-coup crackdown.

"The Conservative Brexit government is so desperate for trade deals with anyone but the mature democracies of the European Union that even the most unsavoury rulers are to be subjected to the prime ministerial charm," opposition Liberal Democrat MP Sarah Olney wrote in the Guardian newspaper.

Writers' group PEN International called on May to raise "serious concerns about the grave violations" being committed within the state of emergency imposed in Turkey after the coup.

Regarding the coup and its aftermath, May's spokeswoman said: "We have already expressed our strong support for Turkey's democracy and institutions following the coup - but we have also been clear that we urge Turkey to ensure that their response is proportionate, justified and in line with international human rights obligations."
WASHINGTON (AP)  Prime Minister Theresa May went to Washington, and President Donald Trump extended the hand of friendship. Literally.

May left Washington after a 24-hour visit as Saturday's British newspapers splashed front-page photos of the two leaders touching hands as they walked at the White House before a strikingly collegial news conference.

May wanted her meeting, Trump's first as president with a foreign leader, to revitalize the trans-Atlantic "special relationship." She got her wish  delighting those who think Trump's presidency will be good for Britain but alarming others who loathe the brash Republican populist.

She flew home  after a stop in Turkey Saturday to meet President Recep Tayyip Erdogan  with Trump's commitment not to abandon NATO, his praise for what he called "this most special relationship" and  a prize she had eagerly sought  the first steps toward an early trade deal with Britain once it leaves the European Union.

Britain can't begin formal negotiations with other countries until it actually leaves the bloc, likely in 2019 at the earliest. But May's office said Saturday that she and Trump had agreed to start high-level talks and joint working groups immediately to ensure "a seamless transition to a new bilateral relationship."

Trade between the two countries is already worth 150 billion pounds ($188 billion) a year, and May said a future trade deal "could provide huge benefits to our economic muscle and will give businesses additional certainty and confidence."

Trump did not come away empty handed from the meeting, either. He gets the seal of approval from a generally well-respected British prime minister. And there's an invitation from Queen Elizabeth II to come for a state visit later this year  a treat for a president with Scottish roots and a taste for opulence.

So there was satisfaction from May's team aboard her RAF Voyager jet at how well the hastily arranged trip had gone.

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May also praised Trump's "stunning" election victory and declared that they shared a commitment to make government serve "working people." May's embrace of aspects of Trump's policies infuriated her opponents in Britain and could make other European leaders uneasy.

British Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron said May "clearly spent her time with Trump dodging his despicable comments on torture, on women, on Muslims and on Mexicans."

Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn said May "failed to challenge Trump and stand up for our values" at a joint news conference with the president Friday.

Trump, meanwhile, extolled Britain's vote to leave the EU, saying Brexit would be "a tremendous asset and not a tremendous liability."

Those comments and the warmth of the visit drew approval from the pro-Brexit sections of Britain's press.

"It was one of the most extraordinary days in the long history of U.K.-U.S. relations," said the Daily Mail under the headline "Love-In at the White House" and a picture of the hand-holding moment.

May's office said Trump offered his hand in a chivalrous gesture as the pair approached an unexpected ramp, and she took it.

The trip will provide images for countless future stories about the trans-Atlantic bond. As well as the shoulder-to-shoulder press conference, May got a handshake in the Oval Office beside a bust of Winston Churchill that has become minor obsession for sections of the British press since it was moved to another spot in the White House by President Barack Obama. Trump restored it to a prominent place beside the Oval Office fireplace.

At times it seemed the visit would be overshadowed by Trump-related headlines that had nothing to do with May, including his feud with Mexico over who would pay for the border wall.

While May was in town the White House announced that Trump would speak by phone with Russian President Vladimir Putin Saturday, amid speculation he could be preparing to lift U.S. sanctions over Ukraine. May said Britain wants to see the sanctions stay in place.

And at the news conference with May, Trump repeated his belief that torture works  though he said he would defer to Defense Secretary James Mattis, who thinks otherwise. Britain, May stressed during the trip, is firmly against torture.

May had scarcely left when Trump issued an executive order barring all refugees from entering the U.S. for four months and imposing a 90-day ban on people from seven Muslim-majority countries.

On the whole, May emerged from the joint appearance looking confident and controlled. Trump, too, was notably calm and measured in her presence.

When May said Trump has assured her he was "100 percent" behind NATO, a body he once called "obsolete," the president muttered his agreement.

May's office told reporters that warm conversation had flowed during the pair's working lunch  and that Trump told an aide to keep the menu card so he could remember the special occasion.

Downing St. said conversation turned to Margaret Thatcher and Ronald Reagan, and Trump told May he wanted their relationship to be "even better" than that famously close and productive partnership.

At the press conference, Trump said he was confident the pair were going to get along.

"I am a people person," Trump said. "I think you are also, Theresa."

___

Follow Jill Lawless on Twitter at http://Twitter.com/JIllLawless
Mexico City (AFP) - Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim said his country was in a position of strength in negotiations with US President Donald Trump, joking that the fellow tycoon was a negotiator, "not Terminator."

Slim called a rare news conference to weigh in on the diplomatic row between Trump and President Enrique Pena Nieto over the US leader's insistence that Mexico pay for a border wall to curb illegal immigration.

The spat escalated this week as Trump ordered the wall's construction, which he wants Mexico to fund, while Pena Nieto cancelled a meeting with the US president scheduled for next week in Washington.

"I think that, to put it in cinematographic terms, Trump is not 'Terminator,' he's a negotiator," Slim said, referring to the science-fiction film about a killer cyborg from the future.

The telecommunications magnate showed a copy of Trump's book "Great Again: How to Fix Our Crippled America" as he discussed the New York real estate tycoon's negotiating skills.

The US leader, Slim said, seeks to "provoke to negotiate" but he voiced confidence that Pena Nieto and Trump will eventually meet due to the importance of US-Mexican relations.

Slim said he felt "great pleasure" in seeing Mexican society back Pena Nieto's decision to cancel next week's meeting, saying he was surprised by the national unity.

"We are in a position of strength... without getting angry but also without surrendering," he said.

The head of the America Movil telecoms empire said that in the negotiations, Mexican officials must make Americans "understand that what's best (for the United States) is to have an economic and trade association with Mexico."

In addition to making Mexico pay for the wall, Trump wants to renegotiate the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

Slim, who had criticized Trump during the presidential campaign, had dinner with the fellow billionaire in Florida in December after Trump's election victory.

Slim said he had not had contact with Trump since then.
By Eric Knecht and Maher Chmaytelli CAIRO/BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Arabs and Iranians planning U.S. trips reacted with fury on Saturday to new American travel curbs they said were insulting and discriminatory, as five Iraqis and a Yemeni were stopped from boarding a New York-bound flight in Cairo. In some of seven Muslim-majority countries affected by the restrictions, would-be travelers preparing family visits, work trips or seeking to escape war reported chaotic disruption to their plans. Some said they had been humiliated. Iran, one of the seven countries, said it would stop U.S. citizens entering the country in retaliation to Washington's visa ban, calling it an "open affront against the Muslim world and the Iranian nation". "It's not right to portray huge groups of Arabs and Muslims as possible terrorists," Najeeb Haidari, a Yemeni-American security manager in Yemen, said a day after Trump put a four-month hold on refugee arrivals and temporarily barred travelers from war-torn Syria and six other mainly Muslim nations. "This is a stupid, terrible decision which will hurt the American people more than us or anybody else, because it shows that this president can't manage people, politics or global relationships," Haidari added. Sudan called the decision to ban entry of its citizens very unfortunate in light of "historic steps" just weeks earlier to lift U.S. sanctions for cooperation on combating terrorism. In the most sweeping use of his presidential powers since taking office a week ago, Trump signed an executive order on Friday to pause the entry of travelers from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen for at least 90 days. He said separately he wanted the United States to give priority to Syrian Christians fleeing the war there. The travel curbs began immediately, causing confusion for would-be travelers with passports from the seven countries. UNFAIR DECISION Sources at Cairo airport said the five Iraqi passengers and one Yemeni, arriving in transit to Cairo airport, were stopped and re-directed to flights headed for their home countries despite holding valid visas. A Syrian family holding U.S. visas who had traveled overnight from Beirut to Paris was prevented from boarding a connecting flight onto Atlanta, Lebanese airport sources said. They flew back to Beirut later on Saturday. In Doha, Qatar Airways advised passengers bound for the United States from the seven newly banned countries that they needed to have either a U.S. green card or a diplomatic visa. Farea al-Muslimi, a U.S.-educated Yemeni political commentator with the Sana'a Center for Strategic Studies said, "It's insane - but what part of Trump is sane?"ers." "This punishes thousands of innocent people for things they have no control over, when the last few attacks in America had to do with radicalized U.S. citizens, not foreigners." A 34-year-old Sudanese man who won the U.S. Green Card lottery said he was worried he would be forbidden entry. "If Im barred...this will destroy my life because I resigned from my work in Sudan and was preparing to settle in America," he said. Fariba, an Iranian-American who declined to give her family name and lives in New Jersey, said her parents would not be able to make a planned visit to celebrate Iranian New Year in March. "What have we done to deserve such a ban? ... This ban will ruin our lives. Thank you Mr. President. Are you making America great by hurting innocent people?" Some people planning U.S. travel said the curbs would harm their careers. Others feared for the safety of their families. "HUMILIATING INSULT" In Baghdad, Bayan Adil, a doctor working in the Iraqi Health Ministry who applied for a U.S. visa to attend a medical seminar, said Iraqi academics should visit Europe instead of the United States, where they were no longer welcome. "Trump's decision is unfortunately a humiliating insult not only for us as academics but for all Iraqis," she said. Her comments were echoed by Abd Al-Jafar, a 43-year-old university professor in Sudan's capital Khartoum, who said he had sought to go to the United States for doctoral studies. "This decision, if implemented, will be a disaster," he said. "I have work in Sudan and have no desire to emigrate to the U.S., just to study there. This decision is illogical." In Beirut, Joumana Ghazi Chehade, 34, a refugee from Yarmouk in Syria living in the Lebanese capital's Burj al-Barajneh camp, said the decision would "destroy a lot of people". "Of course we're not going to go blow anything up ... All we are asking for is security and freedom." Mirna, an American and a mother of two living in Syria, said it was clear Trump "doesn't want to receive Syrian Muslims ... we have to expect the worst from him because he is a crazy man." (Additional reporting by Parisa Hafezi, Babak Dehghanpisheh, Noah Browning, John Davison, Khalid Abdulaziz and Ahmed Elumami.; Writing by William Maclean; editing by Ralph Boulton; Editing by Helen Popper)
Some say the world will end in fire,

Some say ice.

From what Ive tasted of desire,

I hold with those who favor fire.

But if it had to perish twice,

I think I know enough to hate.

To say that for destruction ice,

Is also great

And would suffice.

 Fire and Ice by Robert Frost

___

Recently Ive felt the fire.

Now Ive felt the ice.

Here comes metaphorical mush about worlds-end ire,

Wouldnt that be nice?

 Fired and Ice by Chris Hardie

As far as I know, Lucifer is not yet lacing up his skates, but I have journeyed through fire to ice.

Just as my hair was growing back from my close encounter with flames  I hope they were not perdition-prompted  Mother Nature decided to whip up a winter storm that left the farm and a chunk of the state coated with ice.

While politicians and others way above my station and pay grade continue to debate, expound upon and expunge homosapien influence on the stratosphere, were surely going through some wacky weather. Twenty-below zero to snow, rain, freezing rain and 45 degrees  sometimes in just a few days.

Thankfully we live far enough north that big ice storms are not a frequent occurrence. Snows no big deal. We can shovel it or plow it and still move around. Ice is a different story. Yes, we can salt and sand, but as my engineer father turned farmer is fond of saying, the coefficient friction of ice is pretty much nil. In other words, you have more traction walking on a linoleum floor with banana peels strapped to your feet.

Its difficult for drivers, walkers and animals. I always hope when its icy that our Scottish Highland cows dont decide that its time to reestablish their pecking order. But even they seem to sense that one needs to walk slowly.

Precipitation records in January are usually measured by inches of snow, but earlier this past month it was rain, with many parts of our area recording a half-inch. When rain falls on frozen ground for an extended period of time, you have ice and more ice.

Even though this past weeks ice closed schools for a couple of days, it was not a major storm. The National Weather Service in La Crosse said an ice storm from Feb. 21 to Feb. 23, 1922, left ice accumulations of 1 to 2 inches; as much as 4 inches of ice built up on trees and power poles. Power, telephone and telegraph services were knocked out for up to 15 days. The storm dropped 1 to 4 inches of rain while northern parts of the state had up to 3 feet of snow. Property damage was $10 million.

An ice storm March 4 and 5, 1976, left up to 5 inches of ice in the southern parts of the state, knocked out power for up to 10 days and caused $50.4 million in damage.

I also remember an ice storm in the early 1980s when my wife and I were dating. We had gone to La Crosse to see a movie and it started to rain. It was a challenging drive to her home in Mindoro because the country roads were pure ice. I went into the ditch once  was pulled out by a farmer  and then drove about 10 miles with the right tires of the car on the gravel shoulder.

While it wasnt the frozen river Cocytus from Dantes Inferno, our driveway was a solid sheet after this past weeks storm. I discovered the ice cleats purchased for just such conditions might be fine for Rockettes but were clearly not designed for size-12 feet. I shuffled my way to the outdoor wood boiler  and started humming the Game of Thrones theme song as I shoved hot coals and ashes on the ice.

Its usually during such menial chores that my mind wanders to the profound. With ice on my mind I thought of German author and filmmaker Werner Herzog, who said, civilization is like a thin layer of ice upon a deep ocean of chaos and darkness. Or the transcendentalist Ralph Waldo Emerson, who said, in skating over thin ice our safety is in our speed. And Vanilla Ice who said, Ice, ice baby.

Many physicists speculate that the world will eventually end with either death by ice when the expanding universe grows thinner and colder until it reaches near absolute zero  or by fire when it explodes after a quantum leap into a vacuum state at the speed of light.

Those cosmological pursuits are once again above my comprehension, but the four elements of earth, water, fire and wind are part of my regular routine. Japanese Buddhists add a fifth element that describes the area that can be found between my ears  called void.

I was smart enough  more likely lucky enough  to avoid falling as I finished the morning chores. Most of the ice melted a couple of days later with some welcome spring-like temperatures.

Did I say spring? Its much too early for those fanciful thoughts. There will surely be more wintertime tales to follow.
Two Pakistani activists who went missing early this month have been returned and are safe, their families said Saturday, more than two weeks after their disappearance along with three others sparked protests and fears of a government crackdown.

Academic Salman Haider is "safe and fine", a family member told AFP, confirming comments from police.

A second activist who was also a blogger was also declared safe by a member of his family, who asked AFP not to disclose his name.

The days the activist were missing "were the most painful period in my life," the relative said, adding the returned blogger was now "in (a) safe place for some days".

The five men -- who campaigned for human rights and religious freedom -- went missing from various cities between January 4 and 7, triggering nationwide protests.

No group has claimed responsibility and the whereabouts of the other three are still unknown.

But Human Rights Watch and other rights groups said their near simultaneous disappearances raised concerns of government involvement, which officials and intelligence sources have denied.

Pakistan has had a history of enforced disappearances over the past decade, but this has mainly been confined to conflict zones near the Afghanistan border or to Balochistan province where separatists are battling for independence.

A virulent social media campaign painting the missing as blasphemers triggered a flood of threats despite denials from their worried families, with observers saying the claims could place them in danger.

The charge, which can carry the death penalty, is hugely sensitive in deeply conservative Muslim Pakistan, where even unproven allegations have stirred mob lynchings and murder.

Rights groups say Pakistani activists and journalists often find themselves caught between the country's security establishment and militant groups including the Taliban.

Pakistan is routinely ranked among the world's most dangerous countries for journalists, and reporting critical of security policies controlled by the powerful military is considered a major red flag, with reporters at times detained, beaten and even killed.
THESSALONIKI, Greece (AP)  A monk and the abbot of a Mt. Athos monastery deemed schismatic by the Greek Orthodox church have been sentenced in absentia to 20 years in prison by a court in this northern Greek city.

Antypas, one of 118 monks at the 1,000-year-old monastery, was sentenced for throwing firebombs at a court bailiff who was trying to evict the monks from a building in Karyes, capital of the Mt. Athos monastic community, in July 2013.

Abbot Methodios was convicted for incitement. Another six monks, sentenced to 10 years as accessories, were freed on appeal.

Antypas and Methodios will have to go to prison, if found, as the court decided that any appeal will not suspend their sentence.

The Esphigmenou monks are in a bitter dispute with the Istanbul-based Ecumenical Patriarch, spiritual leader of the world's Orthodox Christians, whom they accuse of treason for seeking better relations with the Catholic Church.

Patriarch Bartholomew I has created a new brotherhood and is trying to take possession of the monastery, but police efforts to dislodge the schismatic monks have failed.

"Esphigmenou monastery is our home; we will die there," one of the defendants told the court.

Alkiviadis Grigoriadis, lawyer for the defendants, said the dispute was over religious dogma and should not "under any circumstances" be settled in court.
Mosul (Iraq) (AFP) - In Mosul, where Iraqi forces are at the forefront of the war against jihadists, soldiers are unhappy that security concerns could keep them from visiting relatives in the United States.

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order restricting the entry of citizens of seven Muslim-majority countries including Iraq in what he described as an effort to make America safe from "radical Islamic terrorists".

The travel restrictions, which come on the heels of repeated assertions by Trump that the US should have stolen Iraq's oil before leaving in 2011, risk alienating the citizens and government of a country fighting against militants the president has cast as a major threat to America.

"It's not fair, it's not right. I should have the right to visit my family," said Assem Ayad, a 23-year-old soldier deployed in Mosul who has three cousins living in Texas.

"This decision was made because there are terrorist groups in Iraq. But there are also innocent people" including those who are fighting against jihadists, said Ayad, who carried an American-made assault rifle.

Haider Hassan, 45, another soldier in Mosul, said his cousin lives in the United States and that he had wanted to visit.

Referring to US military personnel deployed in Iraq, Hassan asked: "Why would they ban us from coming to America when they are in my country and have bases here?"

The Islamic State group overran large areas north and west of Baghdad in 2014, sweeping aside military and police units that were ill-prepared to combat the offensive.

But Iraqi forces backed by US-led air support, training and other assistance have since regained much of the territory they lost, and are now three months into a massive operation to retake Mosul, the country's last city in which IS still holds significant ground.

- 'Why close the doors?' -

Hamza Kadhim, 34, noted that he and other Iraqi soldiers are part of the battle against jihadists, and also emphasised that the actions of extremists do not reflect Islam as a whole.

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"On the day of his inauguration, Trump said he would fight Islamic terrorists. As Iraqi soldiers here to defend our country and fight terrorists, we tell him: Islam is not terrorism. Islam is a religion of love and brotherhood."

"We don't send terrorists to foreign countries... but we have had people coming to Iraq from foreign countries to kill, rape and rob. And we will keep fighting them until the last drop of our blood," he said, referring to IS militants.

The travel restrictions follow repeated statements by Trump that the US should have "kept the oil" in Iraq, remarks that have drawn criticism from Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi.

"Of course, the oil of Iraq is for Iraqis, and any remark to the contrary is unacceptable," Abadi told a news conference in Baghdad.

Keeping Iraq's oil would have required a continued US military occupation to accomplish, and would have been illegal under international law.

For Iraqis who have waited years for the chance to move to the US, Trump's assertion that stricter vetting of potential immigrants is needed may come as a surprise.

Abu Mohammed, a father of three, applied through the International Organization for Migration four years ago, and was expecting to move to the US in a month or two when Trump's order was announced.

"God willing, the decision won't affect my case," Abu Mohammed said.

"Why close the doors in our faces?"
Tehran (AFP) - Muslims from seven countries were barred Saturday from flying to the US and others detained there after President Donald Trump froze arrivals, with one man saying his life has been "destroyed".

Iran, which saw many of its citizens stranded in European and Middle Eastern airports, denounced the "insulting" ban and said it would reciprocate.

Trump on Friday signed a sweeping executive order to suspend the arrival of refugees and impose tough new controls on travellers from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Syria and Yemen.

His move sparked widespread international criticism and personal heartache.

"Donald Trump destroyed my life," Iraqi Fuad Sharef, 51, told AFP.

He had been in transit in Cairo with his wife and two children when officials told them they could not board an EgyptAir flight to New York's John F Kennedy airport.

"I had sold my house, my car, my furniture. I resigned from work and so did my wife. I took my children out of school" to resettle in Nashville, Tennessee under a special immigrant visa, he said.

A pharmaceutical industry manager who had previously worked for an NGO subcontracted by the US aid agency, Sharif and his family were put on a flight back to Iraq.

In Tehran, an Iranian studying in California said the new restrictions would affect her studies.

"I had a ticket for Turkish Airlines on February 4, but it has been cancelled," the girl, who did not wish to be identified, told AFP.

Several other Iranians hoping to fly from Europe were also told they could not board US-bound flights, including an elderly couple stranded for the night in Vienna.

- Legal challenge -

Airlines said they had no choice but to respect Trump's executive order and deny citizens from the seven Muslim-majority countries from travelling to the US.

Two travel agencies in Iran said they had been instructed by Etihad Airways, Emirates and Turkish Airlines not to sell US tickets or allow Iranians holding American visas to board US-bound flights.

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There are no flights from Iran to the United States, where more than a million Iranians live.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani did not comment directly on the ban Saturday, but said that now was "not the time to build walls between nations".

The Islamic republic's foreign ministry said it would "respond in kind after the insulting decision of the United States concerning Iranian nationals" until the measure is lifted.

Tehran called the decision "illegal, illogical and contrary to international rules".

In Khartoum, the Sudanese foreign ministry expressed its "regret" at the US ban.

The New York Times reported that two Iraqi refugees with valid visas were detained late Friday at JFK airport just hours after Trump signed the order.

On Saturday, the American Civil Liberties Union and other advocacy groups filed a legal challenge to Trump's order, and asked for their suit to be considered a class action.

One of those held, Hameed Khalid Darweesh who has worked for the US government in Iraq for 10 years, was later released.

He told reporters "America is the greatest nation, the greatest people in the world".

- 'Firm response' -

But 11 others remain detained at JFK, according to Democratic congressman Jerrold Nadler, who went there to press for the release of the first two.

The United Nations urged Trump to continue his country's "long tradition" of welcoming refugees and to ensure their equal treatment, regardless of race, nationality or religion.

UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said the world body hopes that Trump's decision to ban refugees is a temporary measure and that they will again be given protection,

French President Francois Hollande said Europe must have a "firm response" to Trump, and "when he refuses the arrival of refugees, while Europe has done its duty, we have to respond".

Trump's decree -- which he says aims to make America safe from "radical Islamic terrorists" -- specifically says no visas will be issued for 90 days to migrants or visitors from the seven Muslim states.

It also bars Syrian refugees indefinitely, or until Trump himself decides that they no longer pose a threat.

His decree suspends the entire US refugee resettlement programme for at least 120 days while tough new vetting rules are established.

In Lebanon, Syrian refugees struggling to get by in makeshift camps bemoaned their fate.

"What on earth have the Syrian people done to deserve this?" asked Abu Mahmoud al-Ghol.

"And to think it's a democratic country doing it," the 44-year-old said.

Nearly six years of conflict in Syria have driven more than half the population from their homes, with many fleeing abroad and dreaming of new lives in the West.
By Nick Mulvenney MELBOURNE (Reuters) - Rafa Nadal had to be at his battling best to outlast Grigor Dimitrov 6-3 5-7 7-6(5) 6-7(4) 6-4 at the Australian Open on Friday and set up a mouth-watering ninth grand slam final meeting with his great rival Roger Federer. The Spaniard looked every inch a 14-times grand slam champion as he slugged it out with his 25-year-old opponent over nearly five hours on Rod Laver Arena to reach his first major final since the 2014 French Open and 21st overall. "Grigor was playing unbelievable, it was a great match," the 30-year-old said. "I think both of us deserve to be in that final, it was a great fight. Finally it was me, I feel lucky and I am very happy for that." With 35-year-old Serena Williams facing her 36-year-old sister Venus in Saturday's women's final and a rested Federer, 35, waiting for Nadal on Sunday, it is the first time in the open era that all four grand slam finalists have been over 30. Dimitrov, riding high on a 10-match winning streak and seeking his first grand slam final, did his best to keep the twentysomething standard flying into the weekend. There were no signs of the mental frailties that have prevented Dimitrov from fulfilling the potential promised by his nickname "BabyFed" as he went blow-for-blow with the powerful left-hander. "It's never easy to lose a match like that," said Dimitrov, who hit 79 winners. "But it also shows me that I'm on the right path. At least one thing I can say is I left it all out there on court." Ninth seed Nadal was forced to save two break points in the opening game alone, setting the tone for a frenetic evening. The 2009 champion soon hit his stride, though, and a booming pass that the world number 15 was unable to get back gave Nadal a break for 3-1 and he wrapped up the opening set in 35 minutes. The Bulgarian refused to buckle, though, and pounced to break to love for a 3-1 lead in the second set, Nadal perhaps distracted by a time violation warning. From there, the set descended into chaos with both players broken twice and Nadal forced to save four set points before Dimitrov evened up the contest on the fifth. The break points continued to come thick and fast in the third set, Nadal converting his third and Dimitrov his fourth to keep the set on serve. BLISTERING FOREHAND After a short break while a spectator received medical attention, Nadal held for 6-6 and the set went into a tiebreaker. Nadal missed a large part of the 2016 season because of a wrist injury but proved there was nothing wrong with his fitness as he scrapped to go 2-1 up, sealing the deal with a blistering forehand which Dimitrov parried into the net. Another tiebreaker looked inevitable when the break points dried up in the fourth set, and Dimitrov quickly took control before serving up a 195 kph bomb to send the contest into a decider. There were chances for both men in the fifth but, with midnight long past, Nadal came to the net to punch a backhand into the back court, break for 5-4 and earn the right to serve for the match. Still Dimitrov would not lie down, though, and Nadal needed three match points to win his 12th straight grand slam semi-final and reach his fourth Australian Open final. "It's special to play Roger again in the final of a grand slam, I cannot lie," Nadal added. "I need to go back to the hotel, to rest well, and to recover." (Editing by Ed Osmond)
The Hague (AFP) - The Netherlands on Saturday launched a website to attract international donations to compensate for a decision by US President Donald Trump to end funding to foreign charities that support abortion, the foreign ministry said.

The Netherlands announced it was kick-starting the fund with 10 million euros ($10.7 million).

Trump's decree to ban such funding, signed on Monday, was one of the first acts of his presidency.

The day after that decision the Netherlands called for an international fund to support health centres offering abortion services in developing countries.

On its new website the Dutch foreign ministry said it had received "thousands of messages from over 150 countries in 23 languages".

The vast majority of the responses have been positive, "with many indicating a desire to donate to a fund," the statement added..

The new internet site, "shedecides.eu", offers information on the fund and how to make donations in euros or dollars.

According to the Dutch ministry, Trump's decision leaves a 600 million euro annual funding gap "that can only be filled by a strong international response from governments, aid organisations, businesses and individuals."

The statement continued: "We cannot let women and girls down. They should have the right to decide if they want to have children, when they want to have children, and with whom they want to have children.''

The Dutch government got the fund going with its pledge of 10 million euros.

"We obviously need far more money. Judging by the signals we have received so far, I trust we will come a long way towards safeguarding essential provisions not just for women, but for society at large," said Lilianne Ploumen, the Dutch minister for foreign trade and development cooperation.

According to the Marie Stopes reproductive health charity, cited by Ploumen, the loss of US funding will result in 6.5 million unwanted pregnancies, 2.2 million unsafe abortions, and 21,700 unnecessary deaths of mothers over four years.
Brussels (AFP) - There's no need for alarm over Greece's debt levels, a spokesman for the EU's rescue fund body told AFP Saturday, the day after a leaked IMF report described the problem as "explosive".

"We see no reason for an alarmist assessment of Greece's debt situation," said the spokesman for the Luxembourg-based European Stability Mechanism, or ESM.

"We believe that Greece's debt burden can be manageable, if the agreed reforms are fully implemented," he added.

His words were in contrast to the tone of a confidential International Monetary Fund (IMF) report obtained by AFP on Friday.

According to that report Greece's government debt remains highly unsustainable and will be "explosive" in the long run, requiring a more credible debt relief plan from Europe.

Even with full implementation of the economic reforms the country has agreed to, the Greek government will have to replace highly subsidised official financing with market financing at much higher rates, the IMF said.

The pessimistic report, although in keeping with the fund's repeated statements on the topic, makes it less likely the IMF will participate in any new European loan deal for Greece.

Without measures to ease the debt burden it will reach 275 percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2060, against 160 per cent now, according to the IMF report which is due to be discussed by member states on February 6.

Months of bickering have delayed progress on Greece's 86-billion-euro ($92.4 billion) bailout program agreed in 2015 and officials are increasingly worried that elections this year in the Netherlands, France and Germany could further poison the efforts.

The ESM spokesman on Saturday refused to comment directly on the IMF report but stressed that Greece been granted "exceptionally favourable loan conditions over the long term" and had recently adopted short-term debt relief measures.

"Greece and the Europeans agreed on an ambitious fiscal path during the programme, which is credible and backed by contingency measures in case of unforeseen events," he said.

Europe has made "clear commitments to support Greece with additional debt relief" if necessary, as long as Athens implements the agreed reform programme, he added noting that Greece's fiscal outcome for the past year was "better than expected".
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From Esquire

The Doomsday Clock has moved half a minute closer to midnight, with a panel of scientists and scholars in agreement that humanity is closer to annihilation than we have been in decades.

First introduced in 1947, the Doomsday Clock is a measure of how close we are to destroying the planet, taking into account factors including nuclear weapons, climate change and-as of today-cyber threats. The 12 o'clock hour represents the destruction of human civilization, and the clock is now the closest it has been to midnight since 1953, after the Soviet Union and the US tested their first hydrogen bombs.

The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists magazine set the clock for the first time 70 years ago, and it has been adjusted 21 times since to reflect the changing level of danger from nuclear, environmental and other factors. In its announcement today, the Bulletin made it very clear that Donald Trump and his science-resistant administration are a major part of why the clock has been pushed forward.

Photo credit: AFP / Getty

"The Bulletin is extremely concerned about the willingness of governments, including the new US administration, to discount science and empirical evidence during their decision making process," said Bulletin chair Lawrence Krauss. "Facts are stubborn things, and they must be taken into account if the future of humanity is preserved." Krauss also denounced Trump's "careless rhetoric about the use of nuclear weapons," calling his words "destablizing."

"We are, more than ever, impressed that words matter," Krauss added. "Words count."

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Though the bulk of the Bulletin's announcement focused on the heightened nuclear threat and volatile dynamics between the US, Russia, North Korea, China, Pakistan, and India, there are plenty of other reasons to be alarmed. The panel called attention to climate change, noting the planet's worryingly high recent temperatures and rising sea levels, and also acknowledged the new threat posed by cyber attacks.

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If you're looking for a bright side in all this, the Doomsday Clock does provide a scientific justification for your '90s nostalgia: We've never been safer than we were in 1991. The clock was set at 17 minutes to midnight then, following the signing of the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty at the end of the Cold War.

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By David DeKok

HARRISBURG (Reuters) - A Pennsylvania teen has died seven months after she found herself at the center of a purported rescue mission that ended with the arrest of three heavily armed suspects on the New Jersey side of the Holland Tunnel, a coroner said on Saturday.

Coroner Bill Lisman of Pennsylvania's Luzerne County said his office was investigating the death of Jenae Patterson, 18, of Wilkes-Barre.

Her death was first reported Friday by a local newspaper, which quoted her father, James Patterson, as saying she was victim of a drug overdose.

"I know the father is saying that, but we will not state a cause of death until the tests come back," Lisman said. "That will take two to three weeks."

Patterson's death is an epilogue to an incident that unfolded last June when police pulled over a van for a cracked windshield at the toll plaza at the tunnel, a major thoroughfare under the Hudson River into New York City.

Searching the van, which was covered with stickers supporting gun rights, police found five pistols, an AR-15 assault rifle and a .12 gauge shotgun, as well as knives, body armor, camouflage gear and ammunition.

The discovery, coming a week after a gunman inspired by Islamic militants killed 49 people at an Orlando, Florida nightclub, immediately raised concerns about the intentions of three people in the van. The incident led to the closure of the tunnel for several hours.

One of the suspects, John Cramsey, 50, told investigators the trio was traveling to Brooklyn to rescue Patterson from a drug house, the Newark Star-Ledger reported in June.

A second suspect, Kimberly Arendt, 30, who knew Patterson from a summer camp, said the teen had texted that she had awakened in the drug house to find another friend had died there of an overdose, according to the Scranton Times-Tribune.

Arendt, Cramsey, and a third suspect, identified as Dean Smith, 53, pleaded not guilty in October in a Jersey City court to 63 gun-related charges. They are awaiting trial.

Neither Patterson nor the girl's mother, Cyndi Angeles, could be reached for comment Saturday.

(Reporting By Frank McGurty; Editing by Alan Crosby)
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Defense Secretary James Mattis ordered cost-cutting reviews of two major aircraft acquisition programs, the F-35 fighter jet and Boeing Co's (BA.N) next-generation of Air Force One presidential plane, according to Pentagon memos released on Friday.

The review of Lockheed Martin's (LMT.N) F-35 program, which President Donald Trump has derided as being too expensive, would have two parts: one looking at how to cut costs, and the other determining whether the F/A-18E/F, with improvements, could be an effective, cheaper alternative, the memo said.

Costs for Lockheed's F-35 program had escalated to an estimated $379 billion. The program accounted for 20 percent of the company's total revenue of $46.1 billion last year.

The review of the Air Force One replacement, which Trump has also called too expensive, would look at the plane's requirements and systems and identify courses of action to reduce acquisition and sustainment costs.

In December, Trump extracted a promise from Boeing Chief Executive Officer Dennis Muilenburg that the cost of replacing Air Force One would not exceed $4 billion.

"We're going to get it done for less than that," Muilenburg told reporters last month, "and we're committed to working together to make sure that happens."

On Friday, a Boeing representative said the company had been providing information to the Trump administration for some weeks and was committed to providing equipment to the military as affordably as possible.

Lockheed Martin did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

(Reporting by Phil Stewart, Idrees Ali, and Mike Stone; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama and Lisa Von Ahn)
COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP)  The Swedish photographer Lennart Nilsson, whose pictures of fetuses developing in the womb illustrated a 1965 book that was translated into several languages, has died. He was 94.

Nilsson died Saturday, his stepdaughter told Sweden's TT news agency. No cause of death was given.

Nilsson's photos of the developing fetal stages first appeared in Life magazine and eventually in the book "Ett barn blir till," or "A Child is Born."

He started as a freelance photographer in the 1940s but later experimented with photographic techniques to take extreme close-ups. By combining that with very thin endoscopes that became available in the mid-1960s, he was able to take the photos that made him famous.
WARSAW (Reuters) - Poland wants to convince German Chancellor Angela Merkel during her trip to Warsaw in February to support its ideas for reforming the European Union, Polish Prime Minister Beata Szydlo said on Saturday. Poland's year-old government, led by the conservative and eurosceptic and Law and Justice (PiS) party, believes that central EU institutions in Brussels wield too much power and is lobbying for reforms that would strengthen the role of member state governments and national parliaments. In what will be Merkel's second visit to Poland since Britain's vote in June to leave the EU, Szydlo said that the two would talk about the impact of Brexit on the rest of the bloc, about security and reform issues. "Indeed, I agree, this is an important visit, especially now when the EU is changing, when reforms are needed," Szydlo said in an interview on the private RMF FM radio station. "Poland and Germany are certainly two countries that will set the tone for the discussion on change in the EU. We want reforms and I hope that Chancellor Merkel will become convinced that these reforms are needed for the EU." The date of Merkel's visit has not been announced yet, but Szydlo said it would be in early February. (Reporting by Lidia Kelly and Anna Wlodarczak-Semczuk; Writing by Lidia Kelly)
Last year was a violent one in Hebron, the largest city in the West Bank. In March 2016, video footage filmed by a Palestinian and released by the Israeli human rights organization BTselem showed Elor Azaria, a 20-year-old Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) soldier, shooting an incapacitated Palestinian attacker in an execution-style killing, in the citys Tel Rumeida neighborhood. In late June 2016, a Palestinian stabbed a 13-year-old Jewish girl to death while she slept in her bed in Kiryat Arba, an Israeli settlement contiguous to Hebron. A Hamas terrorist fired on a settler family driving south of the city, killing the father, and injuring the mother and children in early July. (In response, the IDF imposed harsh travel restrictions for the roughly 900,000 Palestinians in the Hebron district, and cut off all outside access to the nearby al-Fawar refugee camp for 26 days.) Stabbing and ramming attacks by Palestinians in the area continued over the fall; in many cases, the IDF killed the assailants.

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Then, in early January 2017, in a divisive verdict, a military court headed by three judges found Azaria guilty of manslaughter. The verdict exacerbated tensions between the IDF and right-wing Israeli politicians who excoriated the military for pursuing the case in the first place. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanhayu, Education Minister Naftali Bennett, and other Israeli politicians, have even called for Azarias pardon. When the verdict came down, the Netanyahu government was still reeling from the Obama administrations decision in late December to abstain from vetoing a UN Security Council resolution reaffirming long-standing international consensus: that Israels settlement-building in the territories it has occupied since 1967 is illegal under international law. (Historically, U.S. officials have massaged the issue by calling settlements obstacles to peace and refrained from explicitly referencing their illegality.) Several days later, Secretary of State John Kerry delivered a speech on Israel and Palestine also largely recapitulating U.S. policy in the region. Again, the Netanyahu government howled in protest.

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Back in 1995, few could have predicted such a rift between the Unites States and its closest ally in the Middle East. In that year, the United States helped broker the Oslo II accord, in which Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) formally agreed to the terms an independent Palestinian state by 1999. The agreement also created the Palestinian Authority (PA), and split the West Bank into three separate zones: Area A, which includes almost all of the major Palestinian population centers in the West Bank but only 18 percent of the territory, governed by the PA; B, where the PA has jurisdiction over civil affairs and the IDF retains control over all security matters; and C, where Israel has total authority over all civil and military affairs. (The commander of the Palestinian Security forces in Jenin in Area A lamented to me how IDF incursions into his territory undermine his authority in the eyes of his own people.) When I travelled through the West Bank several months ago, it was clear that the hallmarks of the occupationits roadblocks and checkpoints, the separation fence and barrier wall (which both prevent terrorist attacks and asphyxiate Palestinian life), the nighttime incursions by the IDF into cities and refugee camps, the Kafkaesque bureaucracy that makes daily life for Palestinians oneroushad taken on a perverse air of normalcy. Indeed, in the eyes of many right-wing Israelis, and perhaps a not-insubstantial number of Americans, this regime is now regarded as sustainable.

But even this system pales to what youll find in Hebron. Hebron, with its population of over 200,000 Palestinians and under 1,000 Jews, is governed differently than the rest of the West Bank. According to the terms of the 1997 Hebron Protocol, Israel has instituted a kind of internal partition, under which 80 percent of the city is under full control of the PA, and the other 20 percent under IDF administration; Palestinians living under the IDF are subject to military law, while Israelis are subject to the normal civil code. When I asked a senior Israeli military official last week about the IDFs efforts to prevent violence by settlers against Hebrons Palestinian community, he told me that there has been a major effort to turn issues of settler violence over to the Israeli police. Theyre the body that has the legal authority to act against the radical settlers, the official said.

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Hebron is also home to the Tomb of the Patriarchs, the second-holiest site in Judaism; it includes both a Jewish section and a Muslim section, called the Ibrahimi Mosque. In February of 1994, Baruch Goldstein, a radical settler from a settlement abutting Hebron, walked into the Ibrahimi Mosque, took out an assault rifle, and opened fire, killing 29 people and injuring 125, all Muslims. Deadly riots between Jews and Muslims followed, and the IDF closed Shuhada Street, formerly the main commercial thoroughfare in the city, connecting the tiny Jewish quarter to the tomb.

On my visit to Hebron, I found that Shuhada Street remains closed, its businesses boarded up and emptied out. Palestinians are barred from accessing the area entirely, or from even walking down the street. The IDF maintains a militarized presence in this part of Hebron, protecting the ultra-religious Jews living in the city center, for whom proximity and access to the Tomb of the Patriarchs is paramount.

The problem is that events in Hebron tend to reverberate far beyond the city. In June 2014, Hamas operatives from Hebron kidnapped three Israeli teenagers hitchhiking in the area; they were later found buried in a shallow grave in a field near the city. The IDF, searching for the abducted men, began a violent crackdown in the West Bank, arresting hundreds. Hamas fired rockets from Gaza in response. A full-scale war in Gaza, short but furious, broke out between Israel and Hamas. Over 2,100 Palestinians were killed, as were 73 Israelis.

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The city now teeters on a very sharp edge. Hebron has been the source of many of the so-called copycat attacks that have occurred in the West Bank and Israel over the past year, the senior Israel military official told me. In fact, not only has Hebron experienced the largest number of terrorist attacks of any city in Israel and the West Bank during the period; it is also home to the largest number of individuals who have committed attacks elsewhere within the West Bank and Israel over the past year, the official said. The possibility of escalation is always there, the military official said, especially because of Hamass unique level of strength in the city.

* * *

For hundreds of years, Jews have had a small, nearly uninterrupted, presence in Hebron. In August 1929, amid rising tensions between Jewish and Arab communities across British Mandate Palestine, rumors spread that Jews were planning on demolishing the al-Aqsa Mosque, the third-holiest site in Islam, in order to build the Third Temple. (Jews believe the Temple Mount, where the mosque now stands, is where the two great Jewish temples were once located.) On August 24, 1929, a vicious pogrom broke out in Hebron. A mob of Arabs traveled house-to-house, killing 67 Jews and wounding scores, wiping out the citys Jewish community. It would not recover until Passover, 1979, when a group of Jewsguaranteed implicit protection by the IDF, which began occupying Hebron, along with the rest of the West Bank, in 1967visited the city and refused to leave, overcoming initial government opposition to their presence. They have lived in Hebron ever since.

The Hebron History Museum, located in the heart of IDF-administered Hebron, dedicates an entire room to the massacre. Photos of men with pleading eyes and stumps for hands line the walls. On the day I visited the museum, Tzipi Schissel, the museums curator, wore a light-blue head-wrap in the Orthodox style, and socks under her sandals. On my tour of the museum, she explained that the evidence of an ancient Jewish Hebron justifies the current Jewish settlement, and militates against current Israeli policy, which severely curtails Jewish resettlement in the urban core.

Schissels family was in Hebron in 1929. She recounted stories of the cruelty of local Arabs and the British soldiers who subsequently occupied the city. Hebron is an integral part of Israel, Schissel said. When you go to buy something here, she asked us, and you look at the currency, what state does it say youre in? (How a Palestinian might feel about buying groceries with shekels, the Israeli currency, did not seem to cross her mind.)

When we entered the section of the museum devoted to the 1929 massacre, Schissel grew quiet. Years ago, she said, a Palestinian man broke into her familys home in Hebron. He plunged a knife into her father over and over, and she watched him bleed to death. Still, she said, shell never leave Hebron. It struck me that this ghastly tragedy hadnt caused her family to flee, or question why her community chose to live under duress; in fact, it only seemed to stiffen her resolve to stay. The greater is ones yearning for an attachment to Eretz Yisrael, wrote Rabbi Kook, Schissels great-grandfather, the purer his thoughts become, for they then live in the air of Eretz Yisrael, which sustains everyone who longs for the Land.

After I left the museum, I walked down Shuhada Street, toward the Tomb of the Patriarchs. Israeli flags swelled in the distance. Hundreds of French-speaking Jews, part of a group called Israel Is Forever, marched down the street, bellowing into bullhorns. They stopped near the tomb and recited the traditional Mourners Kaddish in Hebrew. I have heard, and recited, this prayer hundreds of times, always as a dirge. Here, it sounded like a battle cry.

The president of Israel Is Forever, Jacques Kupfer, is a prominent far-right French-Jewish commentator, member of the Board of Governors for the Jewish Agency, and co-president of World Likud, the international wing of Israels right-wing Likud Party. On Facebook, Kupfer consistently referred to former President Barack Obama exclusively as Hussein Obama. His group says it opposes any further partition plan in favor of a non-existent people and a future terrorist state.

Later in the day, Tzipi Hotovely, Israels deputy foreign minister in the current Likud-led government, spoke at a special rally held by Israel is Forever. She encouraged French Jewswho have been fleeing Europe because of increasing anti-Semitismto make aliyah, or resettle in Israel. Hotovely also does not believe in a Palestinian state, and has called for the wholesale annexation of the West Bank. The protesters gathered at the steps leading to the magnificent tomb. The bellicose crowd, emboldened by the protection of the IDF soldiers, chanted Hev-ron! Hev-ron! Hev-ron! Hev-ron! Their vision was so narrowly focused on the tomb that they seemed not to see the sprawling Palestinian city that surrounds them.

That same evening, IDF soldiers entered al-Fawar, a nearby Palestinian refugee camp, on a mission to confiscate contraband weaponry. Clashes broke out, with Palestinians throwing rocks and IEDs. The IDF responded with rubber bullets and live fire, injuring 35 and killing one.

After visiting the tomb, I entered Hebrons historic Old City, first passing through a checkpoint consisting of two metal cages connected by a secure passageway, guarded by tense Ethiopian and Mizrahi IDF soldiers in an enclosed booth. The souk, or marketplace, in Hebron is typically claustrophobic, a warren of narrow alleyways and petit-bourgeois shopkeepers. It begins one street overand a world awayfrom Shuhada Street. In many cases, the windows of the buildings you see from the Jewish-controlled side, fortified by mesh and metal bars, actually belong to the Palestinian families who live and work in the old city. They cannot access their own balconies, or open their own kitchen windows. And, if walking through the souk, you glance skyward, you will see heavy netting above you. Much of it sags with the weight of garbage thrown by Israeli settlers, in an attempt, local Palestinians say, to intimidate residents, and make shopkeepers lives impossible.

Palestinians in the West Bank feel that the occupations ultimate aim is to drive them out of the territories. For some, merely refusing to leave ones homeland is a way of rejecting Israeli colonialism. My presence here in Hebron is a form of resistance, Mohammed Mohtaseb, a Palestinian tour guide, told me. For all the conspiratorial talk I heard from Palestiniansprominent Fatah Party members, high-ranking PA bureaucrats, and local shopkeepers alike, told me that ISIS is a CIA-funded front groupthere is a powerful logic to this line of thinking.

I dont think you can actually equate the situation in Hebron to any other city in the world, Husam Zomlot, Strategic Affairs Advisor to PA President Mahmoud Abbas (and the next PLO Ambassador to the United States, according to recent reports), told me recently. The overall situation, over years and years, is unbearable. In recent months, Zomlot said, Hebron has been the main theater of clashes and confrontations, of disproportionate use of force by Israel. The numbers speak for themselves: youth who have been shot and killed in Hebron are, in relative terms, the largest number after Jerusalem.

* * *

In any future peace deal, the IDF would likely be required to uproot over 75,000 Jews from the West Bank, some of them religious ideologues, from their homes near some of the holiest places in their faith. In this equation, the settlers of Hebron seem unlikely to voluntarily quit their second-holiest site. This is the paradox: The Jews of Hebron cannot leave, but neither can they stay. If the IDF withdrawsas it must under any future peace dealthe radical settlers of Hebron and elsewhere could face another massacre, another 1929. If the IDF stays, the two-state solution, threatened by settlements like Kiryat Arba, will lose whatever residual viability it may yet possess.

Although Zomlot is hopeful that Hebrons could help facilitate a political solutionHebronites, he said, actually have the most to gain from such a deal, given that the city is the West Banks economic enginehe is pessimistic about its short-term prospects. Nothing suggests that things will improve over the next year, he said. Hebron, Gaza, Jerusalem, and most Palestinian cities are sitting on a ticking bomb. But Hebron is the most immediate ticking bomb.

The longer Israel occupies places like Hebron, the more difficult it will be to dislodge the settlers who reside there. And the longer the settlers are ensconced, the likelier it is that terrorist groups like Hamas will declare all-out war upon them, as well as Israeli civilians inside the pre-1967 borders. And the greater the perception of the threat that such groups pose, the less likely Israeli troops will be to withdraw from the West Bank highlands that give Israel its strategic depth.

In December 2016, then President-elect Trump named David Friedman, a far-right extremist, as his next Ambassador to Israel. Trump has also promisedthreatenedto relocate the American embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, a highly charged move that could itself set off violence. This month, Trumps Ambassador to the United Nations, Nikki Haley, endorsed this policy during her Senate confirmation hearings. Jordan, Americas closest Arab partner in the region, has called such a move a red line with potentially catastrophic implications, according to the Associated Press. Senior Palestinian officials have even said that if such a move occurs, the PLO will revoke its official recognition of Israel, a cornerstone of the Oslo Accords. Moreover, without the moderating influence of the Obama administration, provocative settlement construction may now accelerate. In fact, after soon after President Trump took office, the Netanyahu government announced building approval for 2,500 new housing units in the West Bank.

Meanwhile, in Hebron, storm clouds continue to gather. The question is whether the world sees them.

Read more from The Atlantic:

This article was originally published on The Atlantic.
President Donald Trump ordered members of his Cabinet and the Joint Chiefs of Staff Saturday to begin a 30-day review of the nations strategy to combat ISIS, as he seeks to intensify the U.S. campaign against the extremist group that holds swaths of territory in Iraq and Syria.

In the formal executive memorandum, Trump declared that It is the policy of the United States that ISIS be defeated. The the public signing before television cameras, rather than a private request to the Pentagon, was designed to convey to the world and to our allies the strength of our resolve, a senior administration official said.

It represents a profound statement on the part of the United States that we are committed to ending this atrocity, which is necessary from a national security standpoint, but the intended results include saving an unknowably large number of people on a humanitarian level as well, the official said.

The memorandum orders the Pentagon, the intelligence community, and key Cabinet agencies to develop a comprehensive plan to defeat the extremist group. including reviewing the existing rules of engagement, developing public diplomacy and digital strategies to combat and discredit the group online, identifying new coalition partners, determining how to cut off the groups funding, and paying for the ongoing campaign against the Islamic State.

On the campaign trial, Trump frequently warned of the spread of ISIS, and promised to knock the hell out of the group if elected. I know more about ISIS than the generals do, he declared in November 2015. Believe me.

U.S. forces have carried out more than 200 airstrikes in Iraq and Syria since Trumps inauguration, roughly the same pace as during the waning days of the Obama administration.

The official blamed ISIS and radical groups like it for the genocide of Yazidis, and the genocide of Christians and Kurds and many other groups historically and recently in the Middle East. The use of the term genocide represents a significant break from the Obama administration, which faced criticism for deciding against using the phrase.

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One key measure the generals will weigh is whether to use more aggressive tactics on the battlefield, though those come with greater risks of civilian casualties. They will also examine existing U.S. troop levels in Iraq and Syria.

In a call with Russian President Vladimir Putin Saturday, Trump and his counterpart agreed to increase cooperation between the two countries militaries in the fight against ISIS, the Kremlin said in a statement.

It was not immediately clear whether the results of the review would be made public, as Trump has argued against discussing the U.S. strategy against ISIS publicly to maintain the element of surprise.
The measure proposed Thursday would expand 529 savings accounts to include K-12 students.House Resolution 675, the "Empowering Parents to Invest in Choice," or EPIC Act, would enable parents to use the untaxed accounts to pay for education before college.U.S. Rep. Patrick McHenry of North Carolina, R-10th District, introduced the measure Jan. 24 in recognition of National School Choice Week.said McHenry.The legislation also would raise savings limits on Coverdell accounts, another type of tax-free investment used for college or elementary/secondary school expenses. Coverdell accounts allow savings of up to $2,000. That cap would change to $12,000.North Carolina's 529 savings account program allows deposits of up to $450,000 in each fund. Under H.R. 675, any money saved in a 529 account would - in addition to covering college expenses - become eligible to fund private school tuition and fees, tutoring, books, and special needs services.McHenry said.
On Monday, the individuals and families who have been residing at Houska Park for the summer have to leave and find shelter for the upcoming w
President Trump Friday signed an executive order suspending the State Departments Refugee Assistance Program and visa entry from Iraq, Syria and five other countries, saying they are detrimental to the interests of the United States.

The order, which has been widely anticipated, broadly follows the presidents campaign pledge to suspend immigration from several Muslim-majority countries until extreme vetting can be put in the place to prevent terrorists from entering the country.

The revised guidelines replace his campaign proposal to institute a religious test for immigration. The countries are those that have been designated as countries of concern by Congress and the Obama Administration, and also include Iran, Sudan, Somalia, Yemen, and Libya, a White House official said.

I am establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America, Trump said before signing the executive order at the Pentagon Friday. We want to ensure that we are not admitting into our country the very threats our soldiers are fighting overseas. We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people.

The refugee program will be suspended for 120 days, according to the order, to allow increased vetting measures to be put into place, while visas from the countries of concern would be suspended for 90 days. Trump specifically suspended refugee admissions from Syria until such time as I have determined that sufficient changes have been made to the [U.S. Refugee Assistance Program] to ensure that admission of Syrian refugees is consistent with the national interest.

Trump also ordered the immediate suspension of the Visa Interview Waiver Program, which allows citizens of many countries to enter the U.S. on temporary visas without formal interviews with U.S. consular officers. It was not immediately clear how many countries would be affected by the suspension, as some waivers are guaranteed by statute.

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Earlier Friday, Trump told CBN News that he would seek to prioritize refugee assistance for persecuted Christians in the Middle East.

If you were a Muslim you could come in, but if you were a Christian, it was almost impossible and the reason that was so unfair, Trump said of the existing policy. The executive order provides priority for persecuted religious minorities, provided that the religion of the individual is a minority religion in the individuals country of nationality.

Trumps order also requires the departments of State and Homeland Security and the FBI, to develop a comprehensive immigration screening program, to include increased in-person interviews, databases to cross-check documentation for fraud, and assessments of potential immigrants likelihood of becoming a positively contributing member of society and the applicants ability to make contributions to the national interest. It also requires a mechanism to assess whether applicants have intent to commit criminal or terrorist attacks in the U.S.

In a statement, Speaker of the House Paul Ryan praised the announcement.

Our number one responsibility is to protect the homeland, he said. We are a compassionate nation, and I support the refugee resettlement program, but its time to reevaluate and strengthen the visa vetting process. This is why we passed bipartisan legislation in the wake of the Paris attacks to pause the intake of refugees. President Trump is right to make sure we are doing everything possible to know exactly who is entering our country.

But Democrats on Capitol Hill, along with some Republicans, were critical of Trumps announcement, arguing that the refugee screening program has already proven to be effective at keeping out those with ill-intent, and that banning refugees would be detrimental to the nations standing abroad.

In an interview with ABC News this week, Trump rejected criticism that his proposals could inflame anti-American sentiment abroad.

The world is a mess, he said. The world is as angry as it gets. What? You think this is gonna cause a little more anger? The world is an angry place.
(Reuters) - New Jersey prosecutors on Friday said they would not pursue criminal misconduct charges against Governor Chris Christie in connection with the "Bridgegate" scandal. The Office of the Bergen County Prosecutor said in a letter to a local judge it did not have sufficient evidence to prove allegations that Christie knew about a plot to close lanes at the George Washington Bridge in 2013 in order to punish a local mayor for failing to endorse Christie's re-election bid. "The reason is simple, but compelling - that charge cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt," the letter said. Bill Brennan, a retired firefighter and activist who announced he would run for governor this year, filed the citizen complaint against Christie last September. Two former Christie allies were convicted last year of orchestrating the lane closure plot, and U.S. prosecutors introduced evidence at trial suggesting the governor was at least aware of the scheme. Christie has steadfastly denied that he knew about the closures at the time. Roy McGeady, a municipal judge in Fort Lee, had found probable cause to allow the case against Christie to proceed after a hearing at which Brennan testified. Christie's lawyer was not permitted to argue or cross-examine, McGeady said, because the governor was not a defendant until probable cause was established. Bergen County Superior Court Judge Bonnie Mizdol rejected Christie's subsequent request to toss the complaint outright. But she agreed with both Christie's lawyers and county prosecutors that McGeady erroneously denied the governor's attorney an opportunity to participate. The Bergen County Prosecutor's Office said in the letter that citizen complaints typically allege minor crimes of which the complainant has personal knowledge. The letter said criminal misconduct was far outside that scope. "In short, a matter of this gravity should not have been heard by a municipal court judge," the letter said. Brian Murray, a spokesman for Christie, applauded the decision on Friday. "The Governor is gratified that the Bergen County Prosecutor's Office has ended this baseless fiasco began by Mr. Brennan and perpetuated by Judge McGeady," Murray said in a statement. "It is right and appropriate that this injustice against the Governor is finally over." (Reporting by Curtis Skinner in San Francisco; Editing by Leslie Adler)
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Lawyers say dozens of travelers from countries named in President Trumps recent executive order were held at John F. Kennedy International Airport and other airports Saturday amid confusion about whether they could legally enter the country. At least two of the detained were legal U.S. visa holders who were not allowed to speak to their attorneys for several hours.

Both recipients have approved visas, got on a plane before executive order was signed, arrived and were then detained, says Lara Finkbeiner, deputy legal director for the International Refugee Assistance Project, which represents two of the twelve detainees. We have no idea how theyre doing.

As of early afternoon on a Saturday, one of the detainees, Iraqi citizen Hameed Khalid Darweesh, 53, was released. Darweesh worked as an interpreter for the U.S. military in Iraq, which caused local militia to threaten his life.

Julie Kornfeld, a lawyer working to secure the release of the other known detainee Haider Sameer Abdukhaleg Alshawi, 33, said that he arrived Friday around 8:30 p.m. from Sweden. Kornfeld says his wife had been very emotional, and had not slept since her husband was detained. Alshawis family members had worked for a U.S. security contractor in Iraq.

No details are yet known about the other detainees.

Two members of congress, as well as roughly 150 protesters, were at JFK to register their objection to the ban and the detainment. They described a scene of contradictory orders and confusion regarding travelers who were already en route to the United States at the time the ban was ordered.

When asked if the presidents executive order supersedes a valid visa, they said that theyre trying to figure that out,' said Rep. Jerrold Jerry Nadler, D-NY. This whole thing is shameful. Nadler noted the irony that the ban was signed on Holocaust Remembrance Day.

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This is not who we are. This is an affront to our American values, said Rep. Nydia Velazquez, D-NY. We cannot go back to those dark days in our country.

Trump defended the order on Saturday and attempted to paint a different picture of the confusion playing out at airports around the country, characterizing it as a smooth implementation.

We were totally prepared, he said. Its working out very nicely. You see it at the airports. You see it all over. Its working out very nicely.

Port Authority officers at JFK expelled reporters and demonstrators from the international terminal, saying that the terminal was private property and that reporting was not allowed inside according to the client. JFKs Terminal 4 is the only privately owned terminal in the U.S., owned and operated by JFKIAT, which is owned by a division of Amsterdams Schipol Group.

Nearly a dozen lawyers gathered inside Terminal 4 to offer pro-bono assistance to detained travelers, but since the names of the detained have not been released, its difficult for the lawyers to do their work. Were trying to get the word out that if people are expecting family members, reach out, said Nisha Agarwal, Commisioner for Immigrant Affairs in NYC. lawyers for the IRAP say the best way for family members to get assistance for a detained loved one is to email their name to spoellot@refugeerights.org, with the subject line Name of Detained Person.
Protests at U.S. airports over travel ban Demonstrators gather outside Tom Bradley International Terminal as protests against President Donald Trumps executive order banning travel from seven Muslim-majority countries continue at Los Angeles International Airport Sunday, Jan. 29, 2017. (AP Photo/Ryan Kang)

Protests erupted at airports nationwide Saturday following the implementation of President Donald Trumps executive order placing temporary bans on entry into the U.S. of people from seven Muslim-majority countries.

With 375 travelers affected so far by the travel ban as of Saturday night, according to the Department of Homeland Security  some being sent back to their originating countries from airports across the U.S., and others being prevented from boarding U.S.-bound flights overseas  hundreds of people descended upon airports to express support for those affected by the ban and to express disdain for Trump and the executive order.

Additional protests are scheduled for Sunday, as well, at airports across the country. (ABC News)

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A traffic accident turned into an adorable, yet concerning surprise.

On Tuesday, a box truck overturned on Interstate 86 near Avoca, New York. According to UPI, the New York State Police arrived on the scene and found 104 puppies spilling out of the vehicle.

The truck flipped after the driver, Emily Woodrum of Missouri, lost control of the vehicle in the passing lane, hitting the shoulder of the Interstate.

All of the baby dogs were rescued from the accident by troopers and tow truck operators, with two sustaining serious injuries and several other sustaining minor injuries. All of the dogs hurt during the crash are expected to recover. The Finger Lakes SPCA and Bath Veterinary Hospital housed all of the puppies while transport back home was arranged.

While none of the puppies show signs of abuse, the Finger Lakes SPCA posted on Facebook that it believes the dogs could have been on their way from a puppy mill to be sold at local pet stores.

No health issues that would indicate an animal cruelty concern could be ascertained by veterinary medical professionals who examined the puppies. We are not aware of any other specific laws that would have allowed the transfer of ownership of these puppies to our agency nor were we directed by law enforcement to retain the animals, the shelter wrote online in an update about the pups. While we too abhor puppy mills, we know of no means to legally confiscate animals only because there is a strong likelihood that a puppy came from one.

Currently, all but four of the puppies have been released for transport back to the company who paid for the board and health care of the dogs during their stay at the New York shelters. The four remaining pups will likely be adopted out by the Finger Lakes SPCA, who is pursuing a release of ownership.




Doha (AFP) - Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways said Saturday they would enforce the new rules governing entry to the United States following President Donald Trump's temporary order restricting arrivals from seven Muslim countries.

A spokesperson for Qatar Airways said it would only carry passengers to the US who had the correct documentation.

"We are enforcing the new rules," said the official.

"If travellers to the US don't have the proper documentation, we are not going to take them to the US."

The news comes after Trump imposed tough new controls on travellers from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways said it will apply restrictions on its US routes "effective immediately".

Citizens of the affected countries will need to have a valid US permanent residency card, known as the "Green Card" or a diplomatic visa to travel, an Etihad spokesperson said in a statement.

Qatar Airways also posted a "travel alert" online on Saturday, listing the paperwork required by citizens of the seven countries.

These included the "Green Card" and government and diplomatic visas.

Both Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways fly of New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Washington D.C. and Dallas. The Qatari carrier also flies to nine other US destinations, including Atlanta.

The newly inaugurated US president signed a sweeping executive order on Friday to suspend refugee arrivals and impose tough controls on travellers from the seven countries.
Policymakers and lobbyists in Washington are still scratching their heads over the Trump team's floating of a 20% tax on Mexican imports to fund construction of a border wall. By its timing on Thursday afternoon, the proposal appeared to come as the latest escalation of a budding feud between the new administration and our southern neighbor: After Trump signed an executive order on Wednesday authorizing construction of the wall, Mexican President Enrique Pe?a Nieto announced midday Thursday that he'd canceled a trip planned for next week to meet with the new U.S. president. But White House press secretary Sean Spicer walked back the tax idea almost as soon as he'd offered it, following up with reporters to state it was just one method among several under consideration to get Mexico to cover the wall's cost.

"Here's one way. Boom. Done," Spicer said. "We could go in another direction. We could talk about tariffs."

It seems likely that Spicer meant the White House is warming to a House Republican plan that would impose a 20% tax on all imported goods. Earlier this month, Trump panned the idea, known as a border adjustment tax, as "too complicated." The House GOP is still drafting their proposal, but it already faces stiff opposition from major importers, including retailers and oil refiners, and skepticism from Senate Republicans. The approach at least has the political upside of presenting the White House with a path to declaring a win on a key campaign pledge: There's no easy way to get Mexico to pay for a wall it doesn't want built, and while the tax tweak would apply indiscriminately to imports from everywhere, the administration could argue collections from levies on Mexican goods subsidized the wall.

The alternative that Spicer named--tariffs--are another story. Trump in December threatened to slap a 35% tariff on imports from American companies that ship operations abroad. That isnt how tariffs work, since theyre applied to product categories, not goods from individual companies. And if Trump decides to pursue them, hell soon find out he doesnt have much more authority to impose tariffs unilaterally than he does to change the tax code.

Absent a war or a state of national emergency (which Trump could declare as a precondition--technically thats possible, but itd be pretty extreme, says Frank Samolis, co-chair of the international trade practice at Squire Patton Boggs), the president would likely be limited by the 1974 Trade Act to a 15% maximum tariff that expires after six months, unless Congress decides to extend it. And Republican lawmakers from both chambers are expressing deep concerns about Trumps inclination to wield what tariff authority he does have. House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) last month said he worried it could precipitate a trade war. Earlier this month, Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah) introduced legislation to require the president to go through Congress before imposing a tariff or withdrawing the U.S. from the North American Free Trade Agreement.

Which is to say, as it already feels stale to say, Trump is swiftly discovering translating campaign pledges into policy is easier said than done.

See original article on Fortune.com

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KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP)  Ahmad Alabood, whose family was the first to be resettled in America as part of the "surge" refugee program, wishes President Donald Trump would help topple Syria's regime rather than press to close off U.S. borders to those fleeing a torn homeland.

"The Syrian people deserve better than this," Alabood, 48, who along with his wife and five children arrived last spring in Kansas City, Missouri, told The Associated Press through a translator Friday.

The sentiment was shared some 550 miles away by Motaz Alafandi, a 49-year-old Syrian living in Dallas while seeking asylum with his wife and three youngest kids, ages 14, 11 and 5.

"I wish that Mr. President (Trump) can help in stopping the war in Syria," said Alafandi, who said he loves the U.S. and the American people but does hope to return one day to his homeland. "If my country will become good again, I won't stay here."

Such laments about Syria  reeling from a civil war that has spawned hundreds of thousands of refugees  come as Trump on Friday signed an executive order imposing "new vetting measures" that he says are aimed at keeping "radical Islamic terrorists" out of the United States, saying "we don't want them here." Trump said he only wants to admit people to the U.S. who will support the country.

Among the order's directives are that the U.S. stop issuing visas to Syrian nationals and halt the processing of Syrian refugees until security changes are made, and suspend all immigration from countries with terrorism concerns for 90 days. It was unclear which countries would be affected, though a draft of the order obtained by The Associated Press pointed to a legal provision identifying Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen, all majority-Muslim countries.

The city of Rutland, Vermont , had planned to welcome 100 refugees from Syria and Iraq, but with Trump's Friday order the community expects to see only the two Syrian families that arrived this month.

Story continues

Ahmed Khatib, 37, said he, his wife Mahasen Boshnaq, and their three young children arrived there Jan. 19, and in a Friday interview he said they feel lucky. Day by day they are settling in and Khatib has started talking with people about getting work. After studying agricultural technology in college he hopes to finish his degree in the U.S. Khatib said he looks forward to being self-sufficient, working, having a home for his family and school and clothing for his children.

He doesn't think Trump's opinion reflects Americans, who he said want to allow refugees in the country.

"They are very nice and they are very helpful and welcoming," Khatib said. "I care about what the America people want and I feel that they want refugees."

Alabood said restricting the flow of refugees into the U.S.  out of concern that waves of refugees haven't been or can't be properly vetted by the U.S. to weed out the terrorism-minded  could deepen American suspicion and fan anti-Muslim hostility. Critics of the proposed moves have labeled them reckless and un-American.

"There are certain (American) people that would take it to an extreme" and lash out, said Alabood, a former construction worker in his homeland. "There are lots of people in desperate need of help, and this is a great country to help them," he added.

Afghans and Iraqis who have worked as interpreters for the U.S. military fear the executive action that will bring sweeping changes to the nation's refugee policies will mean their families will be stuck in their homelands, where they may be targeted for violence because they have worked for the Americans. Recently arrived interpreters accompanied by military veterans and elected officials gave a news conference in San Diego on Friday, asking President Trump to not close the doors to refugees.

Abdul Manan, 31, an Afghan interpreter who worked for the Army and special forces for eight years, arrived in San Diego two months ago. He fears for his family after fleeing his homeland amid death threats. It took him three years to get out on a special immigrant visa but his relatives remain in his village and have been threatened.

Manan suggested Trump talk to the military and veterans who will attest to the risk interpreters took to help troops.

"They have sacrificed their lives and their family's lives and now they are left behind. I think of the history of America. Is that how they do? If someone helps them and they're left behind, they're at the mercy of the terrorists  ISIS."

Since settling in Missouri nine months ago, Alabood has chased the American dream, albeit in baby steps. He's earning $10.25 an hour making plastic car parts, trying to learn English and has a four-bedroom rental home to go along with his donated 2000 minivan. His $725 monthly rent tab leaves him unable to afford health insurance.

Yet he gushes of the graciousness of Kansas City, saying he's not been subjected to anti-Muslim sentiment in the Midwest. His brother has joined him, arriving in Kansas City five months ago with his three kids, ages 8, 6 and 4.

In Dallas, Alafandi enjoys a temporary protected status, which has allowed him to get a work permit and driver's license. Alafandi, who came with his family to the U.S. in 2014 and awaits word on his asylum application, has a tow truck business.

"Sometimes we feel that everybody is against us," fostering a feeling of being unwelcomed, he said. "Our people are killed in Syria, and when they try to find a way to survive, people are kicking them out and dealing with them badly."

"I wish that we will be treated as a human beings that are seeking shelter and are seeking to be secure with our families," he added. "We are just asking to be safe and find jobs and feed our kids."

___

Associated Press reporters Jamie Stengle in Dallas, Lisa Rathke in Rutland, Vermont, Julie Watson in San Diego and Jim Salter in St. Louis contributed to this report.
If there is one thing Stephen Colbert taught us during his tenure as host of The Colbert Report, its that bears are the No. 1 threat to America.

You might scoff, but President Donald Trumps nominee for secretary of education gets it.

Betsy DeVos, who happens to hail from the same place I went to high school  Grand Rapids, Mich.  announced during her confirmation hearing a couple weeks ago that schools need guns to protect students from grizzly bears.

After hearing her confirm what we all know to be true  that bears are a very serious threat to our public schools, totally outweighing the dangers of keeping firearms where students could get at them  I was reminded of an incident from back when I was the reporter at the Tomah Journal. A black bear was sighted just down the road from LaGrange Elementary School, on the edge of town, back in 2014.

While the taxonomy of our local black bear is a little different from grizzlies, DeVos assertion raises the question of how our local schools address the very real possibility of bear attacks. I called Tomah Superintendent Cindy Zahrte and West Salem Superintendent Troy Gunderson (West Salem has also had a bear incident) to ask.

Shockingly, neither Zahrte nor Gunderson believe the possibility of bear attacks warrant allowing teachers to pack heat in elementary schools. Zahrte confirmed my recollection of the bear near LaGrange, but said it was pretty simple to notify law enforcement, rather than ask a teacher to whip out a 9 mil.

I personally am opposed to guns in school, Zahrte said. While I do not have a problem with our school liaison officer, who is a licensed law enforcement officer, having a weapon in school, I dont see the need for others to have guns.

Zahrte believes educators went into the teaching business to inspire kids, rather than shoot people or animals. What a concept.

If our legislators believe that guns are needed in schools, then they should ante up the funds to provide a licensed police officer, who has had training and expertise in the use of a gun, in every school, Zahrte said. Let our teachers and administrators focus on student learning.

Gunderson, amazingly, concurred that his staff over on the West Salem campus didnt require firearms in case of bears, despite one whole incident of a bear crossing the track in his 24 years with the district (a fence has since been installed around the track).

I dont think we would need to be armed to protect our children from bears here in West Salem, Gunderson said.

What do they know? Theyre only experts in public schooling in rural areas.

Furthermore, Gunderson challenged Trumps statements on public education in his inaugural speech and DeVoss devotion to encouraging competition in the education system.

While hes not typically political, Gunderson didnt care for Trumps assertion that the U.S. has an education system flush with cash which leaves our young and beautiful students deprived of all knowledge.

While he admits the education system has had some issues, he disagreed with Trump and DeVos when they say competition would make schools great again.

Gunderson pointed out that West Salem is a National Blue Ribbon School and part of its success is the dedication to collaborating with its neighbors.

Were not in competition with Bangor. We work together all the time, Gunderson said.

Public schools share ideas, rather than encouraging a cutthroat competitive policy.

Thats not how this goes. We want success for everybody. Thats the type of people we hire, and thats the whole point of the system, Gunderson said.

All 48 U.S. Senate Democrats vowing to vote against DeVos confirmation as secretary of education next week, with Sen. Al Franken of Minnesota telling the Washington Post on Friday that shes an ideologue who knows next to nothing about education policy as we demonstrated, or she demonstrated really, in her confirmation hearing.

I must disagree with our illustrious Democratic senators. DeVos is most definitely qualified by virtue of having given Republicans some money. I mean, she even donated to our governor, Scott Walker, and, as everyone knows, being wealthy is the only qualification necessary.

Its not like she wants to destroy the entire system Trump asked her to oversee or is undecided on whether schools receiving public funds should provide equal education to students with disabilities or has no idea how schools are held accountable. Oh, wait. She does.

Maybe Franken can talk three of his Republican colleagues into joining him.
Wellington (AFP) - The elevation of an unpredictable billionaire to the helm of nuclear-armed America has given fresh impetus to the idea of remote New Zealand as a bulwark for civilisation in the event of a global catastrophe.

The idea has pedigree -- British science fiction writer John Wyndham's 1955 novel "The Chrysalids" describes a post-apocalyptic landscape where Zealand (or Sealand) is the only place that has not sunk into barbarity.

The fictional Zealand escaped the holocaust because it was "somewhat secluded" and it seems that, in uncertain times, the real New Zealand is attracting interest for the same reason.

"The world is heading into a major crisis," German-born internet mogul and alleged online piracy kingpin Kim Dotcom tweeted late last year.

"I saw it coming and that's why we moved to New Zealand. Far away & not on any nuclear target list."

After Trump's election in November, about 17,000 Americans registered interest online in moving to New Zealand, a 13-fold increase on regular levels.

Immigration New Zealand also reported a spike in inquiries from Britain after the Brexit vote.

Just last week it emerged that tech titan Peter Thiel, one of Trump's strongest supporters, quietly obtained New Zealand citizenship in 2011 and owns several properties in the South Pacific nation.

Other rich-listers who have either moved to New Zealand or bought land include Hollywood director James Cameron, Russian steel magnate Alexander Abramov and US financial services guru William Foley.

One of China's wealthiest executives, Jack Ma, said last year that at least 20 former colleagues from his Alibaba empire had retired to New Zealand and he was considering purchasing a property himself.

The nation of 4.5 million people is nestled deep in the South Pacific Ocean, some 2,000 kilometres (1,250 miles) from Australia.

It is prosperous, has spectacular landscapes and Transparency International rates it the least corrupt country in the world, alongside Denmark.

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The New Yorker magazine this month reported it had become the refuge of choice for ultra-rich Americans looking for a bolthole if Trump's presidency goes disastrously wrong.

Peter Campbell of high-end construction firm Triple Star Management said wealthy Americans wanted helipads in their luxury escapes, but not necessarily underground shelters.

"Its not like you need to build a bunker under your front lawn, because youre several thousand miles away from the White House," he told the magazine.

- 'Sign of success?' -

Apocalyptic anxieties will have been heightened Thursday after the symbolic "Doomsday Clock" was moved 30 seconds closer to midnight on the strength of Trump's comments about nuclear weapons and climate change.

The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists set it at two-and-a-half minutes to midnight, the closest it has been since the height of the Cold War in 1953.

In such a troubled world, New Zealand Prime Minister Bill English has said he can see why his country's political stability and strong economy were attractive.

"Around the world now there's quite a lot of anxiety because there's so much uncertainty, whether it's in Europe or the UK or the US," he said.

"So I'd expect there would be demand for people to come to New Zealand. That's a measure of success."

New Zealand actively encourages wealthy migrants and has special provisions to grant residency to people who can bring along several million dollars in investments.

But the average Kiwi need not necessarily worry too much about rubbing shoulders with an Ivy League fund manager or Russian oligarch next time they tuck into a meat pie at the local rugby match.

The country's largest migration consultancy, Malcolm Pacific Immigration, said the post-election surge in interest in New Zealand was yet to translate into actual applications to move halfway around the world.

"There is a big difference between making an enquiry and following through," Chris Noakes, a team manager at the firm, told Fairfax New Zealand.
Saint Petersburg (AFP) - Over a thousand people rallied in Russia's Saint-Petersburg Saturday to protest the decision by authorities to hand over the city's famous St. Isaac's cathedral to the Orthodox Church.

The crowd of about 1,500 was the biggest showing yet to oppose giving the cathedral, a popular tourist attraction owned by the city, to the Church, saying it would rob the municipality of needed revenue.

The imposing 19th-century St Isaac's Cathedral on the main street Nevsky Prospekt functions as a museum, gallery and concert hall, and is also used for religious services.

"The Church has claimed too much in recent years. Russia is a secular state," said 37-year-old resident, Filipp Gotfrid.

Proponents of the handover, which was decided by the city's governor earlier this month without public debate, say it would be justice served after the long Soviet-era campaign to raze or repurpose churches.

About 100 people from nationalist group National Liberation Movement, which is known for sometimes violent rallies and actions protecting "traditional" and religious values, gathered not far from the protest, brandishing slogans like "a church is a place of worship".

Saint-Petersburg is one of few places in Russia where members of the Kremlin's political opposition were elected into local parliament, and Saturday's gathering was called by the liberal Yabloko party, as part of a wider campaign against the handover.

"It's not a question of faith, it's a question of money," said Yabloko MP Boris Vishnevsky.

Protester Tatiana Tsenkovskaya echoed: "the money earned by the cathedral was the city's, but now it will be for the church. It's not fair."

The campaign was backed by key cultural figures, notably the director of the State Hermitage Museum, Mikhail Piotrovsky, who sent a letter to Russian Patriarch Kirill Thursday asking him to delay the handover to cool tensions in the city.

A pause in the procedure would "stop the public conflict and allow to find the wisest and most just solution," the letter said, according to a museum statement.
One of the most contentious picks for President Donald Trump's cabinet is his Secretary of Education choice, Betsy Devos. The prominent Michigan Republican billionaire has a history of supporting charter schools and school choice, chaired the American Federation for Children and was condemned by the largest labor union in the U.S., the National Education Association.

Her support for school choice, which permits low-income families to use public funds to finance for private or charter schools, is one of the biggest issues fueling the opposition against her confirmation. Teacher unions have not typically supported school choice because they argue that it is against public school education.

With her Senate committee vote rescheduled for Jan. 31, several senators have released statements voicing their opposition and plans to vote "no" to DeVos' nomination. Here is a list of the senators so far who said they will not be voting for DeVos:

Bernie Sanders, I-V.T.

The Vermont senator tweeted Thursday afternoon that he will not be voting for DeVos, adding: We must strengthen public education in America, not destroy it.

Sen. Angus King, I-M.E.

King said in an interview Tuesday with the Portland Press Herald that DeVoss lack of support for public schools spearheaded his decision to oppose the nominee. To say shes a proponent of school choice is an understatement. Her whole career has been school choice to the exclusion of the basic public education system, and I am just such a firm believer in public education that I cant go that far," he said.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y.

Schumer announced Thursday he will vote no to DeVos as the education secretary, emphasizing that she would single-handedly decimate our public education system if she were confirmed." Her plan to privatize education would deprive students from a good public education, while helping students from wealthy families get another leg up, Schumer said.

Story continues

Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-M.I.

The Michigan senator said that after having a conversation with DeVos, she would not be voting for the nominee. Our conversation reaffirmed my strong concerns about her nomination. Betsy DeVos and her family have a long record of pushing policies that I believe have seriously undermined public education in Michigan and failed our children. Therefore, I cannot support (her), Stabenow said.

Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J.

The New Jersey senator voiced his opinion about DeVos in a news release, citing serious concerns about her role as leader of the Education Department. I have long-supported targeted, accountable school choice initiatives to help ensure that poor children in chronically failing schools have the opportunity to receive a quality public education. But there are a number of departures between Mrs. DeVos policy beliefs and mine that prevent me from supporting her, Booker said in the statement.

Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J.

In a news release Tuesday, Menendez announced his opposition to Devos in a conference call with New Jersey teachers and school administrators. We should not entrust the future of our children to someone who has never participated in our public education system - either as a student, parent, administrator, or educator - and fundamentally misunderstands vital pieces of federal legislation like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Menendez said.

Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y.

Gillibrand added her formal announcement to the count of senators opposing DeVos when she said that she will be voting no, adding that DeVos does not share the senators commitment to a strong public education system. I will be voting against her confirmation and I will urge my fellow Senators to do the same. Students, parents and teachers deserve an Education Secretary whose commitment to public education and safe schools will not waver," she said.

Sen. Joe Donnelly, D-I.N.

Donnelley said Wednesday that after reviewing DeVoss record, qualifications and her confirmation hearing, he will not be voting for her as the Secretary of Education. I am concerned she will not prioritize efforts that are important to Hoosier families, like: expanding access to early childhood education, improving our public schools, and empowering student borrowers and reducing federal student loan debt," Donnelly said.

Sen. Tammy Baldwin, D-W.I.

The Wisconsin senator said that all students should have access to education and therefore she will not vote for DeVos. It is very important to me that our next secretary of education respects this tradition and is committed to it, but after meeting with Betsy DeVos, and participating in the hearing as a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor & Pensions Committee, I dont believe she does, Baldwin said in a statement.

Sen. Gary Peters, D-M.I.

Peters criticized DeVos resume during a Tuesday floor speech, adding that he will not support her nomination. Mrs. DeVos resume contains no experience in public education at any level  not as a teacher, not as an administrator, not as a student or parent, not as a school board member and not even as a borrower of public loans for college, Peters said.

Sen. Tim Kaine, D-V.A.

The former 2016 Democratic vice presidential nominee joined the growing count of senators who said they would vote no for DeVos. Mrs. DeVos has said that public schools are a dead end and that government really sucks when it comes to education. This statement betrays the commitment of thousands of public school teachers who work hard every day in our public schools, many in tough working conditions, to ensure our children are educated," Kaine said.

Sen. Chris Murphy, D-C.T.

Murphy, like Sanders, announced his opposition in a tweet Thursday morning. "Guns in classrooms? Elementary schools run for profit? No thanks. I will vote NO on Betsy DeVos for Secretary of Education, the Connecticut senator tweeted.

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Snapchat is about to get a little less secretive.

Snap Inc., the mobile app's parent company, will file for an initial public offering late next week, according to anonymous sources speaking to Kara Swisher of Recode. Given that it's Swisher, a tech press veteran, we'd categorized them as reliable.

SEE ALSO: Snapchat cash is no joke for the media

The fact that Snapchat is going public hasn't been kept a secret. The company secretly made moves, as in quietly filed to the Securities and Exchange Commission, back in November. (Snap was able to secretly file because it made less than $1 billion last year. )

That move was leaked shortly after Snapchat rebranded itself as Snap Inc. and unveiled its camera glasses called Spectacles.

What happens next week, reportedly, will be a public unveiling of a Form S-1. Snap and its executive team, led by CEO Evan Spiegel, will then take that to investors and analysts on what's called a road show. The S-1 document means we'll no longer need to guess about its revenue and whatever else Snap considers important to its business.

Facebook revealed salaries, its number of active users and its revenue breakdown when it filed for its IPO back in 2011. Snap has reportedly has been trying to sell its IPO to investors as the new Facebook stock.

Why go public? Snap has some big ambitions and more cash could help the company on its expansion into hardware.

Snap is seeking a valuation of $25 billion, according to Recode's sources and previous reports. That would make Snap one of the largest IPOs in recent U.S. history.

BONUS: One 'Pitch Perfect' actress writes songs for Rihanna and Beyonce
By Abdi Sheikh and Feisal Omar MOGADISHU (Reuters) - Al Shabaab said its fighters killed dozens of Kenyan troops when the Islamist group attacked a remote military base in Somalia on Friday, while Kenya's army said nine soldiers died and 70 militants were killed. Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Paul Njuguna said that al Shabaab's fighters had attempted to attack their base in the southern town of Kulbiyow, near the Kenyan border, but were repulsed. A spokesman for al Shabaab, which often launches attacks on troops of the African Union's AMISOM force, said its fighters killed at least 66 Kenyans at the base. The group had said earlier it lost fighters but did not give numbers. Njuguna said the attack was launched around dawn on Friday, when al Shabaab fighters used a vehicle packed with explosives to try to blast their way into the camp of the Kenya Defence Forces. Al Shabaab gave a similar account of how the attack was launched. Its military operation spokesman, Sheikh Abdiasis Abu Musab, told Reuters fighters rammed two suicide car bombs into the base and seized it. "We are pursuing the Kenyan soldiers who ran away into the woods," he said. Al Shabaab, whose assessment of casualties often differs markedly from official versions, typically rams the entrance to a target site with a car or truck bomb so fighters can storm in. The Islamist group has been fighting for years to impose its strict interpretation of Islam on Somalia. It once ruled much of Somalia and wants to topple the Western-backed government in Mogadishu and drive out the peacekeeping force made up of soldiers from Kenya, Djibouti, Uganda, Ethiopia and other African countries. African Union and Somali troops have pushed its fighters from major urban strongholds and ports, including the capital Mogadishu in 2011, but they have often struggled to defend smaller, more remote areas from attacks. In January 2016, al Shabaab said it had killed more than 100 Kenyan soldiers in El Adde, a Somali camp near the border with Kenya. The military did not give details of casualties in that attack, but Kenyan media reports suggested a toll of that magnitude. Njuguna said 15 wounded soldiers were airlifted on Friday to Nairobi for treatment, and that Kenyan forces were pursuing the rest of al Shabaab's fighters. (Additional reporting by George Obulutsa and Humphrey Malalo in Nairobi; Writing by Aaron Maasho and Edmund Blair; Editing by George Obulutsa and Dominic Evans)
Richard Spencer, who leads a movement that mixes racism, white nationalism and populism, speaks at the Texas A&M University campus on Dec. 6, 2016, in College Station, Texas. (Photo: David J. Phillip/AP)

Donald Trump is in the White House, and Yahoo News is taking a look at the top stories to watch in his first 100 days. From the unusual role family members will play as White House advisers, to his promises to aggressively transform U.S. trade policy, and from investigations into Russian interference in the election to his relationship with Paul Ryan, well be rolling out 15 stories over five days  signposts for the road ahead.

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THE STAKES

For members of the white nationalist movement known as the alt-right, the election of Donald Trump as president was hailed as a significant victory that provided a stamp of legitimacy. Their ideology had long been relegated to dark corners of the Internet and the farthest reaches of the political fringe. Now, leaders of this movement seek to seize Trumps presidency as an opportunity to promote their controversial ideology through real political action.

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THE STORY

In interviews with Yahoo News and elsewhere, key alt-right leaders Richard Spencer, who runs a white nationalist think tank called the National Policy Institute, and Jared Taylor, editor of American Renaissance magazine and an outspoken advocate of the unfounded theory of racial superiority, have denied having direct contact with any members of Trumps team.

However, as Spencer told reporters at NPIs conference in Washington, D.C., last November, We dont need a direct connection to influence policy.

After all, it was Trumps own policy proposals  particularly those related to immigration  that attracted the likes of Spencer and Taylor to his presidential campaign in the first place.

In an interview with Yahoo News after the election, Taylor listed some of the campaign promises he most wished to see carried out by the Trump administration, including, Building a wall to keep out illegals, sending home all illegals, taking a very hard look at Muslims, ending sanctuary cities, putting an end to birthright citizenship.

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Trump may not be motivated by their same desire to establish and safeguard a white national identity against the perceived threat of multiculturalism, but Taylor, Spencer and Co. recognize such policies as building a wall on the Mexico border or a temporary ban on immigrants from some majority-Muslim countries as opportunities to limit the flow of nonwhite immigrants into the country.

Alt-right leaders would like to see Trump take his proposals even further.

According to ThinkProgress, during a press conference at NPIs November gathering, Spencer outlined a few of the six policy proposals his think tank plans to release over the next year, which, he said, we hope will directly impact a Trump administration.

Among the policies Spencer reportedly has in mind are a 50-year break on all immigration, particularly non-European immigration to the United States, as well as a plan to dissolve NATO and replace it with a new military alliance between the U.S., Europe and Russia.

After the election, Taylor outlined his own vision for the future of the country in an interview with WNYCs Bob Garfield. Deporting undocumented Mexicans and banning Muslim immigration, as Trump has proposed, are just the first steps, he explained.

The ultimate goal is to have at least a portion of the United States where whites are the recognized majority and in which their culture is recognized as the dominant culture and where they can live free from the embrace of people unlike themselves, Taylor said. And I believe that that can be achieved through voluntary separation.

Pressed on how, exactly, such a scenario would navigate the equal protection clause guaranteed by the 14th Amendment of the Constitution, as well as the several other federal anti-discrimination laws, Taylor seemed to suggest that the latter, at least, could be subject to change.

The Civil Rights Act of 1964 is not part of the Constitution, he said, noting that before the landmark legislation was passed, it was perfectly legal for a private operator to discriminate in his place of business, in his choice of associates.

Taylor expressed a desire to return the country to its pre-civil rights state, arguing that private individuals should have the right to discriminate for good reasons, bad reasons or no reasons at all.

Meanwhile, Spencer is already looking for ways to influence policy beyond the White House. Last month, he kicked off a college tour to drum up support for the alt-right on campuses with a speech at Texas A&M University. And he publicly mulled running to fill the seat of Montana Rep. Ryan Zinke, who has been tapped by Trump to be secretary of the interior. If Zinke is confirmed, a special election would be called to fill his House seat within the following 85 to 100 days.

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THE PLAYERS



In the past year, Richard Spencer, the previously little-known head of a white nationalist think tank called the National Policy Institute, has become the public face of the alt-right. His media profile exploded in the wake of the election when a video surfaced from his speech at the annual NPI conference in D.C., showing attendees giving Nazi salutes in celebration of Trumps presidential win.

Like Spencer, self-described race realist Jared Taylor has long sought to influence policy from the political fringe. Since the 1990s, Taylor has used American Renaissance, now AmRen.com, to advocate on behalf of the unfounded theory that there is a biological hierarchy between the races, periodically holding his own conferences in addition to speaking at others, like the NPI.

In an August 2015 essay posted on AmRen.com, Taylor argued that Donald Trump may be the last hope for a president who would be good for white people, citing Trumps own positions on immigration, as outlined on his campaign website.

Steve Bannon is chief strategist and senior counselor to the president, and many on the alt-right see him as their bridge to the Trump White House. Though the former Breitbart Media chairman-turned-Trump campaign CEO once claimed to have transformed the conservative Breitbart News site into the platform of the alt-right, Bannon has more recently denied accusations that he is himself a white nationalist.

In an interview with the Hollywood Reporter after the election, Bannon insisted he was an economic nationalist, and pledged to use his position within the Trump administration to push an America-centric trillion-dollar infrastructure plan that, he claimed, will be as exciting as the 1930s, greater than the Reagan revolution  conservatives, plus populists, in an economic nationalist movement.

Read more from Yahoo News:
(Photo: Pablo Martinez Monsivais/AP)

Donald Trump is in the White House, and Yahoo News is taking a look at the top stories to watch in his first 100 days. From the unusual role family members will play as White House advisers, to his promises to aggressively transform U.S. trade policy, and from investigations into Russian interference in the election to his relationship with Paul Ryan, well be rolling out 15 stories over five days  signposts for the road ahead.

_____

THE STAKES

Has a major American political party ever been so leaderless? Democrats did not only lose the White House in November and fall short in the House and the Senate. Theyre also bidding adieu to both of their brightest stars: the two Democrats whove sucked up the last decades worth of oxygen; the only two Democrats as famous as Trump. Barack Obama is riding off into the political sunset. Hillary Clinton is already over the horizon. Who has the stature to fill the void  to command a spotlight as big as the Donalds? Anybody?

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THE STORY

It isnt always imperative for a party to have a new leader waiting in the wings as soon as it loses the presidency. But this time might be different. For one thing, Democratic decimation is near-total. The executive branch belongs to the GOP. So does Capitol Hill. The Supreme Court is about to become a lot more conservative. Republicans now control 33 governors mansions and 32 statehouses; they have complete control in 27 states, which together account for 56 percent of the population. The right hasnt been this dominant since at least 1928. For the next few years, Democrats cant really do much of anything in terms of policy. All they can really do is send a message.

This brings us to the partys second problem. Thanks to technology and celebrity, no messenger in the history of American politics has ever had a megaphone as deafening as Trumps. If Democrats want to compete for voters attention  if they dont want Trumps latest tweet to be the only message Americans are hearing, day after day  they need to find a way to fight back. Finding someone to fight back is a good place to start.

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THE PLAYERS

So who will it be? Independent Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont  last years primary runner-up  is an obvious contender. Hes got the street cred. Hes got the followers. And hes shown that he knows how to tango with Trump. When Sanders displayed a giant printout of an @realDonaldTrump tweet on the Senate floor earlier this month, the image immediately went viral. Ultimately, however, Sanders is a party of one, and he isnt likely to put Democrats interests ahead of his own.

Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren is just as popular and progressive as Bernie; she also happens to be a Democrat, and shes an even sharper communicator, as she has shown during her ferocious Twitter wars with Trump. The same goes for former Vice President Joe Biden, who clearly relishes an opportunity to beat the incoming president at his own populist game. Both Warren and Biden have hinted at possible White House runs in 2020, even though theyd be septuagenarians; whatever happens four years from now, such speculation could help them position themselves as the partys top anti-Trumps in the weeks and months ahead.

On Capitol Hill, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York has replaced Nevadas Harry Reid as the official head of the legislative opposition, and he may well score some parliamentary points against the Trump agenda. (His recent revisions of an old Mitch McConnell letter proved to be Twitter gold.) But theres a reason why Senate leaders rarely become party leaders. Their aims are narrower and more institutional: protecting vulnerable members, amending bills, striking deals. On top of that, Schumer is much less defiant by nature than Reid. As one senior Democratic Senate aide recently told New York magazine, Chuck will go to the ramparts on an issue when its polling at 60 percent, but as soon as it gets hairy, hes gone. Compromise isnt going to cut it.

In California, pretty much every Democrat of note  state Senate President Kevin de Leon, incoming Attorney General Xavier Becerra, gubernatorial wannabe Gavin Newsom  has vowed to block the Trump administration from imposing its agenda on the Golden State. But only Gov. Jerry Brown  who has been equally defiant  has any sort of national profile. If Brown succeeds in making California the center of the resistance, its possible that hell become as a spiritual figurehead of sorts  the movements Yoda, if you will.

What about a Luke Skywalker, though? What about the next generation of Democrats? Beltway pundits are already busying themselves with lists of 2020 hopefuls. The same names keep popping up in every outlet: new California Sen. Kamala Harris, New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker, New York Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper, Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar. All of these pols are still so unfamiliar, however, that its hard to imagine them commanding the same sort of national attention as Trump  or wanting to. More likely theyll choose their battles, build their profiles and focus on laying the groundwork for future runs instead.

One last option to consider. Typically, ex-presidents retreat from the political fray. They write books. They build houses. They start foundations. They clear brush. Barack Obama has signaled that he wants to do the same, more or less. But what if he followed Trumps lead and broke all the rules instead? At 55, Obama is one of the youngest ex-presidents in U.S. history. Hes also one of the most popular, with approval ratings currently hovering above 55 percent. He has no obvious Democratic successor. And the man who is replacing him in the Oval Office has vowed to undo his entire legacy. Could Obama step away for a few weeks or months, then reemerge in response to some particularly egregious offense on Trumps part? As Michael Corleone once put it, Just when I thought I was out  they pull me back in.

Read more from Yahoo News:
Good Shepherd Evangelical Lutheran Church of La Crosse will host the Caring for Souls concert from 2 to 4 p.m. at the church at 4141 Mormon Coulee Road.

Donations collected at the event will support the La Crosse Area Synods Flood Relief Task Force efforts to help people affected by the September flooding in Buffalo, Crawford and Vernon counties.

The concert will include performances by The Fifth Chamber, Good Shepherd Adult Hand Bell Choir, Good Shepherd Sanctuary Choir, Onalaska High School Orchestra, Neighbors, Friends & Members of Good Shepherd, and The Sounds of Praise Band.
KHARTOUM (Reuters) - Sudan called President Donald Trump's decision to ban entry of its citizens "very unfortunate" in light of "historic steps" taken just weeks earlier to lift sanctions for cooperation on combating terrorism, its foreign ministry said on Saturday. Trump on Friday put a four-month hold on allowing refugees into the United States and temporarily barred travelers from Syria and six other Muslim-majority countries including Sudan, saying the moves would help protect Americans from terrorist attacks. That move comes only two weeks after the departing Obama administration said it would lift a 20-year-old trade embargo against Sudan, unfreeze assets and remove financial sanctions as a response to Khartoum's cooperation in fighting Islamic State and other groups. Sudan's foreign ministry said previously that the sanctions decision had come with Trump's approval. "It is particularly unfortunate that this decision coincides with the two countries' historic move to lift economic and trade sanctions ... and just as economic and financial institutions as well as businessmen in the country were set to continue developing their investment projects..." a foreign ministry statement said. Sudan's economic problems have been building since the south seceded in 2011, taking with it three-quarters of oil output, the main source of foreign currency and government income. The sanctions relief, which will be delayed by 180 days to assess progress on human rights and ongoing conflicts, is expected to impact businesses that deal with agriculture, import-export services, transportation, technology and medical equipment, and oil. (Reporting by Khalid Abdelaziz; Writing by Eric Knecht, editing by David Evans)
Beirut (AFP) - Air strikes killed 10 civilians including seven children in areas near a town held by the Islamic State group in north Syria on Saturday, a monitor said.

The strikes came as regime forces had advanced to within seven kilometres (four miles) of the jihadist group's bastion of Al-Bab, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

The Observatory said regime airstrikes killed a child in Tadif on Saturday, while Turkish air raids left nine civilians dead including six children in Al-Uraima and Bezaa.

President Bashar al-Assad's fighters have advanced towards Al-Bab from the southwest, seizing three villages since late Friday, the Observatory said.

Turkish forces, meanwhile, have gathered to the north of the town, the Britain-based monitor said.

Al-Bab has come under heavy assault in recent weeks, with Turkish, Russian and Syrian warplanes carrying out strikes in or around the town.

Turkish forces regularly carry out air strikes in support of a ground operation they launched in Syria last August targeting both IS and Kurdish fighters.

Several this month have been joint operations with Russia.

Turkish officials say the utmost is done to avoid causing civilian casualties, and have denied claims that civilians have been killed in previous raids.

The Observatory has also reported that 10 civilians were killed on Friday in Turkish air strikes and shelling in the area.

Turkey's state-run Anadolu news agency reported on Friday that the latest round of raids had killed 22 IS "terrorists".

IS is not included in a fragile nationwide ceasefire in force since December 30 that led to peace talks jointly organised by Turkey, Russia and Iran in Kazakhstan this week.

Ankara has backed rebels since the conflict began with the brutal repression of anti-government protests in March 2011.

Moscow and Tehran have supported the government.

The Observatory, which relies on a wide network of sources inside Syria for its information, says it determines whose planes carry out raids according to type, location, flight patterns and munitions used.
Damascus (AFP) - Syria's army on Saturday entered a key water pumping station outside the capital for the first time in four years after a deal with rebels, state television said.

"The Syrian army hoisted the Syrian flag above the installation" at Ain al-Fijeh, which rebels first seized in 2012, it said.

The move comes after more than a month of fighting in the Wadi Barada area, despite a fragile nationwide truce that led to peace talks earlier this week in Kazakhstan.

Around 5.5 million people in Damascus and its suburbs have been without water since fighting intensified in the Wadi Barada area in late December.

Earlier this month, rebels struck a truce with Syrian authorities to allow the water pipes to be repaired, but the deal was called off after a mediator was killed.

"It's the first time the deal is actually being implemented," Rami Abdel Rahman, the head of the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitor, told AFP.

Rebels have withdrawn from the water plant but remained in the wider area of Ain al-Fijeh, the monitoring group chief said.

But he said it was just "a first stage" in implementing the deal towards repairing the station and allowing water to return to millions in the capital.

The regime has accused the rebels of cutting off the mains, while the armed opposition said regime bombardment had destroyed the infrastructure.

Red Cross ambulances entered Wadi Barada on Saturday, the Observatory said.

As part of the deal, rebels can choose to stay in the area but hand over their weapons, or leave to the northern province of Idlib, last major bastion of the armed opposition.

More than 310,000 people have been killed since Syria's conflict broke out in March 2011 with anti-government protests that were brutally repressed.
In the wake of President Donald Trumps executive order on immigration Friday, many critics quickly took up a familiar rallying cry, lifting words from the Statue of Liberty that have for decades represented American immigration: Give me your tired, your poor / Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.

Former independent presidential candidate Evan McMullin, Minnesota Rep. Keith Ellison and former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright all invoked those words  written by American author and poet Emma Lazarus in 1883  as they condemned Trumps suspension of the countrys refugee assistance program.

Richard Spencer  the alt-right leader and white nationalist who last week unwittingly launched an internet debate over whether its OK to punch a Nazi  responded by criticizing the famous poem.

Its offensive that such a beautiful, inspiring statue was ever associated with ugliness, weakness, and deformity, Spencer said in a tweet Saturday.

But the statue was not initially met with widespread popularity in the U.S. due to its cost, and some have argued that Lazarus sonnet, The New Colossus, actually imbued it with meaning.

The poet James Russell Lowell said he liked the poem much better than I like the Statue itself because it gives its subject a raison detre which it wanted before, according to the New York Times.

Emma Lazarus was the first American to make any sense of this statue, Esther Schor, who wrote a biography on Lazarus, told the Times in 2011.

Lazarus, who was born in New York City in 1849 to a wealthy Jewish family, composed The New Colossus for a fundraiser benefiting the Statue of Liberty in 1883. (While the statue was a gift from France, the United States was responsible for covering the cost of its base and pedestal.)

Lazarus drew inspiration from her Sephardic Jewish heritage and from her work on Wards Island, where she helped Jewish refugees who had been detained by immigration authorities, according to the National Park Service.

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Wherever there is humanity, there is the theme for a great poem, she once said, according to the Jewish Womens Archives.

The poem was later published in New York World and the New York Times, just a few years before Lazarus died in 1887.

The Statue of Liberty arrived in New York in 1885 and was officially unveiled in 1886, but Lazarus poem did not become famous until years later, when in 1901, it was rediscovered by her friend Georgina Schuyler. In 1903, the last lines of the poem were engraved on a plaque and placed on the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty, where it remains today.

The poem, in its entirety, is below:
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP)  A boat carrying 31 people, including around 20 Chinese tourists, is missing after sailing out from an eastern Malaysian city, Chinese state media said Sunday. The Chinese Consulate General in Kota Kinabalu in the Malaysian state of Sabah said the boat lost contact after leaving Kota Kinabalu on Saturday morning, according to the official Xinhua News Agency said. It was bound for Pulau Mengalum, an island about 60 kilometers (38 miles) west of the city. The report cited the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency as saying there were 28 Chinese tourists on board. But the Chinese Consulate could only confirm the passport details of 18 Chinese citizens, Xinhua said.

PATTAYA, Thailand (AP)  Theerayut Charoenpakdee was terrified when police stopped her outside a mall in Pattaya, a Thai resort famous for its sordid nightlife. A urine test on the spot revealed meth coursing through her veins. "I thought I was going to be thrown in prison with all the men because I still have the title of Mr.," the transgender woman said. "I was afraid. News and TV tells us that being sent to prison is scary." It turned out not to be the ordeal she expected. The prison she was destined for  Pattaya Remand  separates lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender prisoners from other inmates, a little-known policy despite being in place nationwide since 1993, according to the Department of Corrections.

ULAANBAATAR, Mongolia (AP)  Thousands of Mongolians stood in frigid weather Saturday for the second time this winter to protest the government response to smog that routinely blankets their capital. An estimated 7,000 people, many of them wearing air masks and gas masks underneath thick winter hats, braved temperatures that fell below minus 20 degrees Celsius (minus 4 Fahrenheit). Standing in the city's central Sukhbataar Square, they held black balloons and protest signs. One banner read: "Wake up and smell the smog." Ulaanbaatar is one of the world's coldest capitals, and more than half of the city's 1.3 million residents rely on burning raw coal, plastic, rubber tires and other materials to stay warm and cook meals in their homes.

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BEIJING (AP)  Chinese are lighting incense sticks and praying at temples to wish for an auspicious start to the Lunar New Year. Thousands visited Beijing's major temples on Saturday, the first day of the Year of the Rooster. Wearing heavy winter coats, they lit incense sticks and bowed as they prayed for good fortune and health. As many as 80,000 people were expected at the Lama Temple in central Beijing, state television reported. Beijing's sprawling spring festival temple fair opened at Ditan Park, where empty tree branches were festooned with red lanterns and traditional goods and foods were for sale.

HONG KONG (AP)  Saturday marks the start of the lunar Year of the Rooster and families in China will reunite for festivities, fireworks and food. While tradition calls for feasting on "auspicious" foods, many will also munch on staple snacks like "phoenix claws," the Chinese name for chicken feet. With reptilian looks and lowly status from scratching around farmyards and coops, humble chicken paws are considered a throwaway in the West, where farmers often grind them into feed for pets and livestock. But across much of Asia, where diners prefer eating meat on the bone, they're a considered a delicacy.

SRINAGAR, India (AP)  Five Indian soldiers were rescued several hours after being trapped in snow that caved in on them as they patrolled Saturday along the highly militarized Line of Control that divides Kashmir between India and Pakistan. Rescuers dug for the soldiers despite continuous snowfall and rescued all of them, Indian army spokesman Col. Rajesh Kalia said. The soldiers were on a routine patrol when the track they were on caved in around them in the Machil sector of the Himalayan region under India's control. Kalia said the soldiers were undergoing treatment, but did not give any details about their condition.

ISLAMABAD (AP)  A Pakistani university professor who went missing earlier this month has returned home safely, police and a family member said Saturday. Senior Islamabad police officer Ashraf Shah said that Salman Haider was home, on the outskirts of the capital, Islamabad, late Friday night and that he is safe and well. Haider and three other rights activists who ran social media accounts known for their liberal views went missing earlier this month. Dr. Haider Ashraf, the Lahore police chief, said all four missing men were at an Islamabad police facility, but would not elaborate on their circumstances. Family members of the other three men returned could not immediately be reached for comment.

MANILA, Philippines (AP)  Philippine troops have launched airstrikes and ground assaults that reportedly wounded one of Southeast Asia's most-wanted militant suspects who is trying to establish a new base for an alliance backing the Islamic State group, officials said Friday. Intelligence reports showed the assaults killed at least four militants, possibly including a Malaysian, and reportedly wounded the main target, Isnilon Hapilon, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana told The Associated Press. He said Hapilon apparently managed to flee from a camp in the mountainous hinterlands of Butig town in southern Lanao del Sur province. "Army troops are still in hot pursuit," Lorenzana said.

JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP)  An Indonesian man arrested in Bali this week for suspected links to the Islamic State group after traveling to Turkey was an Australian-educated former Finance Ministry official, authorities said Friday. The Ministry of Finance said Triyono Utomo resigned from his job in the ministry's fiscal policy office in February last year because he wanted to focus on managing an Islamic boarding school in West Java. At the time he was in line to be appointed as a division head within the office. National Police spokesman Martinus Sitompul said Utomo, aged about 40, was well educated and studied for his master's degree in Australia.

BANGKOK (AP)  A court in Thailand on Friday sentenced an opponent of the military government to more than 11 years in prison for posting material on the internet judged insulting to the country's monarchy. The military court halved the sentence for Burin Intin from an original 22 years, 8 months for two offenses because he pleaded guilty to the lese majeste charge as well as to violating the Computer Crime Act by posting illegal content. Lese majeste, insulting the monarchy, carries a penalty of three to 15 years in prison. Burin was arrested in April 2016 as he participated in a protest in Bangkok against the military regime that seized power from an elected government two years earlier.
By Makiko Yamazaki and Taiga Uranaka TOKYO (Reuters) - Toshiba Corp said it will sell a minority stake in its memory chip business as it urgently seeks funds to offset an imminent multi-billion dollar writedown, adding that its overseas nuclear division - the cause of its woes - was now under review. The drastic measures are set to be just some of the tough choices the Japanese conglomerate will have to take as proceeds from the sale are likely to only cover part of a charge that domestic media has put at $6 billion. Still battered by a 2015 accounting scandal, Toshiba was plunged back into crisis when it emerged late last year that it had to account for huge cost overruns at a U.S. power plant construction business recently acquired by its Westinghouse division. Describing the nuclear division as no longer a central business focus for the firm, Chief Executive Satoshi Tsunakawa said Toshiba will review Westinghouse's role in new projects and whether it will embark on new power plant construction. The division will also now fall under direct CEO supervision. Tsunakawa added Toshiba was looking to sell less than 20 percent of its memory chip business - the world's biggest NAND flash memory producer after Samsung Electronics - which comprises the bulk of the conglomerate's operating profit. The firm is rushing to complete the sale by the end of the financial year in March as failure to do so will likely mean that shareholder equity - just $3 billion in the wake of the accounting scandal - would be wiped out by the charge. Sources have said Toshiba aims to raise more than 200 billion yen ($1.7 billion) from the sale and potential investors include private equity firms, business partner Western Digital Corp and the government-backed Development Bank of Japan. It is also selling other assets although it ruled out the sales of any of its infrastructure businesses - which include water treatment, railway and elevator firms. "We've been raising funds through sales of stock holdings, real estate and other assets," Tsunakawa told a news conference without disclosing the amount, adding that various measures were being considered to boost the firm's capital base by March. Toshiba also said it may eventually list the memory chip business. Executives declined to comment on the size of the writedown, which will be announced on Feb.14 when Toshiba reports third-quarter results. FUNDS CAUTIOUS Mark Newman, an analyst at Sanford Bernstein in Hong Kong, said a stake sale would likely only be a short-term band-aid. "The NAND business is the only one with value, as it makes up all of the semi-conductor profits, which comprise 75 percent of the overall company's profit. I won't be surprised if they sell another 20 percent in a few years time and then another 20 percent." Sources have said many private equity funds, including Silver Lake and Permira, have signed non-disclosure agreements with Toshiba. But it remains to be seen how well the sale will go given the end-March deadline and caution on the part of potential investors. "Partnering with Toshiba could be risky due to uncertainties over its nuclear business," said an official at a global private equity firm. "Chip businesses are highly cyclical and need massive capital investment. Funds are cautious because they have had their fingers burnt with chip investments in the past," said the official, who was not authorised to speak to media and declined to be identified. Western Digital, which operates a NAND plant in Japan with Toshiba, may seem like a natural buyer of a large stake in the chip business, but a sale before March might be difficult as it would likely invite a review by anti-trust regulators. FOXCONN INTEREST? Toshiba estimates the value of its memory chip business at 1-1.5 trillion yen ($9-13 billion), a person with direct knowledge of the matter has told Reuters. The business generated sales of 845 billion yen and operating profit of 110 billion yen in the past financial year. Toshiba has also called on its main banks to support it and they have agreed to not call in some loans early for now even as recent downgrades of the firm's credit ratings violate some provisions in debt agreements, people with direct knowledge of the matter have said. Business weekly Toyo Keizai reported that Taiwan's Foxconn, the world's largest contract manufacturer, is interested in either taking a stake in or buying some of Toshiba's businesses. Foxconn founder Terry Gou wants to build up the company's advanced big-screen display business and the integration of chips, camera, storage, streaming will be key, said one person familiar with the company, adding he would "not be surprised" to see Foxconn start talks with industry players including Toshiba. A representative for Foxconn, formally known as Hon Hai Precision Industry Co, had no immediate comment. ($1 = 115.0800 yen) (Additional reporting by Umesh Desai in Hong Kong, Junko Fujita and Taro Fuse in Tokyo, JR Wu in Taipei)
The Hague (AFP) - Travellers began to be stopped within hours of US President Donald Trump signing an order Friday to suspend refugee arrivals and impose tough controls on travellers from seven mostly Muslim countries.

The visa-restricted countries are Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

Here are some of the cases known about so far, of people stopped either before boarding flights to the United States or on arrival there.

- EGYPT -

An Iraqi family was barred from flying from Cairo to New York on Saturday. Egyptian officials said the family had visas and were in transit when they were prevented from boarding the EgyptAir plane to New York's JFK airport.

Fuad Sharef, 51, and his wife and three children were instead forced to board a flight back to Arbil in Iraq's autonomous region of Kurdistan, he told AFP.

"I had sold my house, my car, my furniture. I resigned from work and so did my wife. I took my children out of school," said Sharef of the family's preparations to resettle in Nashville, Tennessee, under a special immigrant visa.

"Donald Trump destroyed my life. My family's life. I used to think America was a state of institutions but it's as though it's a dictatorship," he said.

- AUSTRIA -

At least three Iranian nationals were stopped at Vienna airport on Saturday as they sought to travel to the US, a spokesman for Austrian Airlines said.

The trio, an elderly couple and a young woman who all came from Isfahan, had valid US visas, Peter Thier told the Austria Press Agency.

The couple remained stranded in the Austrian capital for the night while the woman had flown back to Iran, he added.

Vienna is an important transit hub for Iranians travelling to the US so there could be more cases.

- UNITED STATES -

The New York Times reported that two Iraqi refugees who landed at New York's John F. Kennedy airport were detained by authorities late Friday, hours after Trump signed the tough new measures.

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The American Civil Liberties Union and other advocacy groups filed a legal challenge to Trump's order. Lawyers representing the pair also filed a court appeal for their release, saying they were being unlawfully detained.

Shortly after midday Saturday one of them was released, the newspaper said, naming him as Hameed Khalid Darweesh, an interpreter who worked on behalf of the US government in Iraq.

The paper said he cried as he spoke to reporters, miming being handcuffed behind his back. "What I do for this country? They put the cuffs on," it quoted him as saying.

The other Iraqi remained in custody.

- IRAN -

Two travel agencies told AFP they had been instructed by Etihad Airways, Emirates and Turkish Airlines not to sell US tickets or allow Iranians holding American visas to board US-bound flights.

An Iranian studying in California who was visiting home said Saturday that she could not return because her ticket had been cancelled under the new restrictions.

"I had a ticket for Turkish Airlines on February 4, but it has been cancelled," the girl who did not wish to be identified told AFP.

Iran denounced the US ban as "insulting" and said it will ban Americans from entering the country. The Islamic state's foreign ministry called the decision "illegal, illogical and contrary to international rules".

- THE NETHERLANDS -

Dutch flag carrier KLM said it had stopped seven passengers from boarding its flights, five of whom it had been able to contact before departure.

The identities of the seven, their countries of origin and destinations were not given.

"We would have liked to have had them fly with us, but it would not have made much sense because they would have been denied entry" to the United States, KLM spokesman Manel Vrijenhoek told AFP.
By Julia Edwards Ainsley and Richard Cowan

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Divisions have emerged among advisers to President Donald Trump over whether to rescind a signature policy of his predecessor, President Barack Obama, that shields young immigrants from deportation, according to congressional sources and Republicans close to the White House.

Even though Trump campaigned on a promise to roll back Obama's executive orders on immigration, the Republican has so far left intact an order safeguarding 750,000 people who were brought to the United States illegally as children, known as the "dreamers."

The issue has become a flashpoint for White House advisers divided between a more moderate faction such as chief of staff Reince Priebus and immigration hardliners Stephen Miller and Steve Bannon, said a former congressional aide who has been involved with immigration issues in Washington.

Priebus has said publicly that Trump will work with Congress to get a "long-term solution" on the issue.

Meanwhile, Miller, said to have mastered the thinking of his former boss and anti-immigration advocate Jeff Sessions, Trump's nominee for U.S. Attorney General, as well as Bannon, former head of right-wing Breitbart News, have pushed Trump to take a harder approach and rescind the protections.

Two officials at the Department of Homeland Security expect Trump to simply stop renewing the authorizations that "dreamers" currently have to work, drive and obtain higher education. Under that plan, the most recently renewed authorizations would expire in two years.

But a senior House Republican aide said it was uncertain whether the administration had scrapped the idea of overturning Obama's Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, known as DACA, as the internal debate plays out.

Preserving DACA has also become somewhat of a bartering chip as Trump seeks congressional support for a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border and other early administration priorities.

The White House is "acutely aware" of the firestorm in the country and within Congress that could swamp the fledgling administration just as it plunges into negotiations over the wall, healthcare, tax reform and infrastructure investments, said the senior House Republican aide.

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Another congressional aide described a Senate bill sponsored by Democrat Dick Durbin and Republican Lindsey Graham to protect the "dreamers" as the "sugar that would help the medicine of the wall go down."

The bill would likely face challenges winning enough votes to pass. Efforts to attach some tough conservative amendments could lose Democratic Party support and sink the whole effort.

Trump has kept his public comments on DACA vague.

In an interview with ABC News on Wednesday, Trump said his administration would be coming out with a policy to deal with "dreamers" over the next four weeks.

"They shouldn't be very worried. They are here illegally. They shouldn't be very worried. I do have a big heart. We're going to take care of everybody. We're going to have a very strong border," Trump said in the interview with ABC.

Trump reportedly told Durbin during the inaugural luncheon at the Capitol on Jan. 20 that he did not have to worry about an executive action overturning Obama's order.

But there is scant trust among Democrats that Trump will keep his word. And immigration advocates said DACA recipients live in fear and uncertainty as the message from the White House and Republicans seems to shift by the day.

House Speaker Paul Ryan told a woman protected by DACA, at a townhall hosted by CNN Jan. 12, that there should be a solution for people like her to get "right with the law" and not be separated from their families.

Just two days prior, Sessions, a Senator, told a Senate panel considering his confirmation that it would "certainly be constitutional" to repeal DACA.

Sessions also attempted to force a vote to block DACA in the Senate in 2014.

Miller, Sessions' former staffer, is now Trump's senior adviser for policy at the White House. Miller is known to be a staunch advocate for restricting immigration, even by workers who enter legally on visas.

Both Miller and Bannon, Trump's senior counselor and chief strategist, are seen as outsiders to the Republican establishment and unafraid to upset people like Ryan to stay true to Trump campaign promises.

Priebus, however, came to the White House after chairing the Republican National Committee and has spent years seeking to unify the party and cultivating relationships with career politicians.

(Reporting by Julia Edwards Ainsley and Richard Cowan; Editing by Caren Bohan and Grant McCool)
Have booze, will smuggle." These words are written on a handkerchief that was found stuffed in the pocket of a tuxedo belonging to Arthur S. Funk.

The words were written by hand, with a fountain pen, and the ink has blurred and turned brown with age. It also has transferred through the folds of silk, so it appears more than once on the handkerchief. But those words are still quite legible  and intriguing.

Was this person truly a bootlegger  or just a jokester having some fun?

The initials stitched into the handkerchief indicate it belonged to William F. Funk, Arthurs brother, of the Funk Steam Boiler and Ironwork Co. The manufacturer was founded in 1865 by their father, Michael Funk, who also founded the La Crosse Rubber Mills in 1897. This phrase hints at the effects of Prohibition on a state known both for its German immigrants and brewing tradition.

While bootleggers were not absent from La Crosse, it's likely this handkerchief was more of a party joke than a shady business deal. Prohibition began in Wisconsin in 1920 with the passing of the 18th Amendment, spelling trouble for bars, taverns and breweries. Many breweries in the state were forced to close or resort to creating new products.

While brewers switched to sodas, dairy products or candy, others produced near-beers," which had a lower alcohol content. Near-beers were largely unpopular, and some drinkers spiked the drinks to regain the desired effect. The G. Heileman Brewing Co. even cleverly released a near-beer named Spike in 1922.

Like the rest of the country, La Crosse was teeming with bootleg liquor. Basement stills and homemade brew kits were not uncommon, and some people resorted to smuggling alcohol in from Canada. Maybe the owner of this handkerchief  presumably William Funk  indulged in a little illicit alcohol purchasing, and through his playful boasting, wound up memorializing his behavior. Certainly many Americans continued to enjoy alcohol, acquired illegally, until 1933 when the 21st Amendment was ratified, ending Prohibition across the land.
Washington (AFP) - President Donald Trump attacked two major US newspapers in a Twitter blast during a busy Saturday in which he was scheduled to speak with five world leaders, including Russia's Vladimir Putin.

Trump criticized The New York Times and The Washington Post as being dishonest in a typo-laden series of tweets. The reason for the early morning tirade was not immediately clear.

Rather than touch on his fast-paced first week, or prepare for the frenetic day ahead, -- including talks with Putin plus the leaders of Japan, Germany, France and Australia -- Trump laid into two of the most prestigious daily newspapers in the United States.

The new president has made a habit of attacking the media, which he accuses of treating him unfairly.

Trump wrote Saturday that the two papers "got me wrong right from the beginning and still have not changed course, and never will. DISHONEST."

"The failing @nytimes has been wrong about me from the very beginning. Said I would lose the primaries, then the general election. FAKE NEWS!," he added.

Both papers shot back in kind on Twitter.

".@realDonaldTrump Fact check: @nytimes subscribers & audience at all-time highs. Supporting independent journalism matters," the paper's communications team posted.

The Post's media columnist Margaret Sullivan retweeted the Times' comments and added: "Subscriptions also spiking at now-profitable @washingtonpost, where the audience is bigger than ever (and the facts aren't alternative)."

Twitter is one of Trump's preferred conduits for communication. He has more than 22.5 million followers on the messaging platform.

For more news videos visit Yahoo View, available now on iOS and Android.
By Emily Stephenson and Mica Rosenberg (Reuters) - President Donald Trump on Friday put a four-month hold on allowing refugees into the United States and temporarily barred travelers from Syria and six other Muslim-majority countries, saying the moves would help protect Americans from terrorist attacks. In the most sweeping use of his presidential powers since taking office a week ago, Trump paused the entry of travelers from Syria and the six other nations for at least 90 days, saying his administration needed time to develop more stringent screening processes for refugees, immigrants and visitors. "I'm establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America. Don't want them here," Trump said earlier on Friday at the Pentagon. "We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people," he said. The order seeks to prioritize refugees fleeing religious persecution, a move Trump separately said was aimed at helping Christians in Syria. That led some legal experts to question whether the order was constitutional. One group said it would announce a court challenge on Monday. The Council on American-Islamic Relations said the order targets Muslims because of their faith, contravening the U.S. Constitutional right to freedom of religion. "President Trump has cloaked what is a discriminatory ban against nationals of Muslim countries under the banner of national security," said Greg Chen of the American Immigration Lawyers Association. The bans, though temporary, took effect immediately, causing havoc and confusion for would-be travelers with passports from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen. Trump has long pledged to take this kind of action, making it a prominent feature of his campaign for the Nov. 8 election, but people who work with Muslim immigrants and refugees were scrambling on Friday night to determine the scope of the order. Even legal permanent residents - people with "green cards" allowing them to live and work in the United States - were being advised to consult immigration lawyers before traveling outside the country, or trying to return, said Muslim Advocates, a civil rights group in Washington. On Friday evening, Abed Ayoub of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee said he had fielded about 100 queries from people anxious about the order, which he said he believed could affect traveling green card holders, students, people coming to the United States for medical care and others. "It's chaos," Ayoub said. SYRIAN REFUGEES During his campaign, Trump tapped into American fears about Islamic State militants and the flood of migrants into Europe from Syria's civil war, saying refugees could be a "Trojan horse" that allowed attackers to enter the United States. In December 2015, he called for a ban on all Muslims entering the United States, drawing fire for suggesting a religious test for immigrants that critics said would violate the U.S. Constitution. His idea later evolved into a proposal for "extreme vetting." Trump's order also suspends the Syrian refugee program until further notice, and will eventually give priority to minority religious groups fleeing persecution. Trump said in an interview with the Christian Broadcasting Network that the exception would help Syrian Christians fleeing the civil war there. Legal experts were divided on whether this order would be constitutional. "If they are thinking about an exception for Christians, in almost any other legal context discriminating in favor of one religion and against another religion could violate the constitution," said Stephen Legomsky, a former chief counsel at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services in the Obama administration. But Peter Spiro, a professor at Temple University Beasley School of Law, said Trump's action would likely be constitutional because the president and Congress are allowed considerable deference when it comes to asylum decisions. "It's a completely plausible prioritization, to the extent this group is actually being persecuted," Spiro said. Trump's order had been expected to include a directive about setting up "safe zones" for Syrian refugees inside the country, but no such language was included on Friday. The order may also affect special refugee programs for Iraqis who worked for the U.S. government as translators after the 2003 invasion of Iraq. It is already affecting refugees and their families, said Jen Smyers of the Church World Service, a Protestant faith-based group that works with migrants. Smyers said she spoke to an Iraqi mother whose twin daughters remain in Iraq due to processing delays. "Those two 18-year-old daughters won't be able to join their mother in the U.S.," she said. POLITICAL FIRE Democrats on Friday were quick to condemn Trump's order as un-American, saying it would tarnish the reputation of the United States as a land that welcomes immigrants. "Today's executive order from President Trump is more about extreme xenophobia than extreme vetting," said Democratic Senator Edward Markey in a statement. Some Republicans praised the move. Representative Bob Goodlatte, chairman of the House of Representatives Judiciary Committee, said Islamic State has threatened to use the U.S. immigration system, making it important to do more screening. "I am pleased that President Trump is using the tools granted to him by Congress and the power granted by the Constitution to help keep America safe and ensure we know who is entering the United States," Goodlatte said in a statement. Republican Speaker Paul Ryan, who had panned Trump's original campaign pledge to ban Muslims from entering the United States, expressed some support on Friday. "We are a compassionate nation, and I support the refugee resettlement program, but it's time to reevaluate and strengthen the visa vetting process," Ryan said. "President Trump is right to make sure we are doing everything possible to know exactly who is entering our country," Ryan said. (Reporting by Emily Stephenson in Washington and Mica Rosenberg in New York; Additional reporting by Andrew Chung, Eric Beech, Mohammad Zargham, Dan Levine, Michelle Nichols, Julia Edwards Ainsley; Writing by Roberta Rampton; Editing by Leslie Adler and Tom Hogue)
Washington (AFP) - US President Donald Trump will call almost half a dozen counterparts from around the globe Saturday, among them Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, the first foreign leader with whom he met after his election.

The conversation comes just days after Trump formally withdrew the United States from the Trans-Pacific Partnership, a vast trade deal encompassing a dozen nations that Abe has backed enthusiastically.

US participation is seen as key to the agreement and Abe said he would keep trying to convince Trump of its merits.

But on Thursday, Abe said he would consider the possibility of Tokyo and Washington hammering out a trade deal alone -- Trump has said he preferred bilateral trade agreements to multilateral accords.

Abe was the first world leader to rush to meet the US president-elect in New York, visiting Trump just nine days after Americans voted him into office in a surprise victory.

The meeting stirred controversy when Trump's daughter, Ivanka, a former model and current business executive with no formal role in Trump's presidency, was seen in attendance.

Trump will also speak Saturday with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Russian President Vladimir Putin, French President Francois Hollande and Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.

The conversations come one day after Trump's meeting with Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May, the first foreign leader to visit his White House.

Trump hailed the "most special relationship" between the twin Atlantic powers and praised Britain's decision to leave the European Union as a "wonderful thing."
Washington (AFP) - President Donald Trump signed an executive order Saturday giving the US military 30 days to devise a plan to "defeat" the Islamic State group.

The plan makes good on a key campaign pledge of Trump, who mocked and criticized the slow pace of his predecessor Barack Obama's progress in the fight against the extremist fighters.

The text, which calls for a "comprehensive strategy and plans for the defeat of ISIS," is seen as meaning more US forces and military hardware moving into Iraq and Syria.

Pentagon chief James Mattis is also tasked with recommending changes to US rules of engagement and policy restrictions to eliminate those that "exceed the requirements of international law regarding the use of force against ISIS" under the order, which also seeks to cut the group's financial support.

Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin agreed in a telephone call to establish "real coordination" against the Islamic State group in Syria, according to the Kremlin.

Yet many in the US military are suspicious of Russia's role in Syria, with Moscow seen as seeking first and foremost to support and defend President Bashar al-Assad's regime.

"We have to get rid of ISIS. We have no choice," Trump told Fox News in an interview broadcast Thursday, using another acronym for the jihadist group.

"This is evil. This is a level of evil that we haven't seen."

- Seeking 'quicker results' -

Barack Obama took a longer-term view of the anti-IS fight, with a more cautious commitment of US forces and instead ramping up an air war against the violent extremists.

"President Trump might be looking for something with quicker results, that could put some more options on the table," retired lieutenant general David Barno, who led coalition forces in Afghanistan from 2003 to 2005, told National Public Radio on Friday.

The United States currently has 5,000 troops in Iraq and 500 in Syria as "advisers" -- but also US artillery and aircraft to help in the fight.

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They have provided substantial support to the assault led by Iraqi forces on Islamic State's hold on the key city of Mosul.

The slow, steady assault has driven IS fighters out of part of the city on the east bank of the Tigris River, and forces are now preparing an assault on IS-held Mosul neighborhoods on the river's west bank.

According to reports, an escalation of the US role could involve more US armor and helicopters engaging in the assaults on IS positions together with Iraqi, Turkish and Kurdish forces.

Trump "could elect to put American boots on the ground in larger numbers," Barno said.

"That all entails new uses of military power... and that opens the prospect of a deeper involvement with more casualties."
For President Trump, the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) represents the epitome of job-destroying bad deals. Since the early days of his presidential campaign, he's made it clear he'd like to kill the two-decade old treaty with Canada and Mexico and replace it with something else.

This week was a testament to how hard that may be: Trump's talk of a 20% tariff on Mexican products to support his border wall has fanned tensions with Mexico and led President Enrique Pena Nieto to cancel a planned visit to the U.S. Even so, Trump seems undeterred.

Ending NAFTA could have big implications for small businesses: the trade pact has created a single market by eliminating tariffs on most traded products and fostering manufacturing supply chains that stretch over borders. Some business owners are delighted to get rid of NAFTA  a treaty that has cost 1 million U.S. jobs by some estimates and led to a $58 billion trade deficit with Mexico. Others worry that changing NAFTA will make manufacturing more costly for them, as they have learned to use the 1993 pact to their advantage by developing new markets for their goods and services in the trade zone.

Here's how some small manufacturers see the issue:

Fears about new trade barriers

Glen Dobi, founder and CEO of Dobi & Associates in San Diego, is worried. His company, which makes grilling planks for barbecues, has taken advantage of the free trade zone to source and manufacture its products since its founding in 2003. For example, Dobi purchases cedar in Canada, mills it in the U.S., and then sends it back to Canada for final processing. Canada is also an important market for the company, and he can sell there without taxes on his products. He's also tested manufacturing in Mexico.

Dobi worries that getting rid of NAFTA might spark new tariff barriers with Mexico or Canada.

"My head is ready to explode, waiting on the sidelines and wondering if we will have to completely redo our entire business model," he says. "It would be a ton of work to move things back to the U.S."

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The potential for more jobs and more sales

NAFTA caused a great deal of heartache for Travis Oates, the third-generation owner of a weaving mill called MWW on Demand in Asheville, N.C., founded in 1932. His company used to produce woven blankets, placemats, runners, and wall tapestries for local retailers and national chains.

In the years following the ratification of NAFTA, however, MWW lost half of its 1,000 workers as customers sought out cheaper fabrics produced on Mexican looms, Oates says. (A flood of cheap products from Asia also didn't help, Oates adds.) Over the years, the company has rebuilt itself, adding new computer technology that allows it to capture much smaller orders digitally for custom woven and printed products.

Nevertheless, Oates says he is cheered by Trump's plans to change NAFTA, as he thinks it could lead to a resurgence of manufacturing in the U.S. that might make his U.S.-made products cheaper and more attractive to large retailers.

"We need to make sure the middle class has an opportunity, and people have manufacturing jobs," he says. "We want every dollar the consumer spends here benefitting our manufacturing jobs."

Bilateral deals could make the U.S. stronger

Marlin Steel, a Baltimore-based company that makes steel baskets, counts Canada and Mexico as two of it biggest markets outside of the U.S. Drew Greenblatt used to be a big fan of NAFTA and other trade deals like the Trans-Pacific Partnership, from which Trump recently announced he'd withdraw. But he's had a change of heart.

Greenblatt was recently part of a group of about a dozen small manufacturer who met with Vice President Mike Pence in Washington, D.C., shortly after the election. The vice president said the U.S. no longer wants to engage in multilateral deals which weaken the country's bargaining strength, according to Greenblatt.

Greenblatt now believes in that philosophy. "By going one on one one with smaller [economies], we will be able to negotiate stronger and better deals," he says. "We will have stronger intellectual property rights and stronger protections for American interests."

Fear of global repercussions

Utah-based Zerelli Technologies produces its injection-molded oil seals in China and Taiwan  a long way from the NAFTA countries. But company president Nick Penze worries about the consequences of the Trump administration's China talk. He's concerned it could spark a trade war and result in new tariffs. If NAFTA is also overturned, Penze says he might not find the necessary cost savings by moving manufacturing back to North America, which had always been an alternative. "It would create a less competitive marketplace," Penze says. "It secretly worries me."

See original article on Fortune.com

More from Fortune.com
President Donald Trump's administration is reportedly seriously considering labeling the Muslim Brotherhood a terrorist organization, making business political or business contact with the international Sunni Islamist group a punishable offense under U.S. law.

The move would be seen as a victory for conservatives who have long been suspicious of the organization's foreign ties, which span five continents, according to the group's English-language website. The group is known for both its political and social advocacy, sponsoring religious, educational and charity-based efforts around the world. The Muslim Brotherhood calls for an Islamic way of life with one of its popular slogans stating, "Islam is the solution."

Its ties to militant Islamist movements, however, have caused nations such as Russia, Syria and the United Arab Emirates to outright ban its activities. Critics of these bans have argued that the organization acts as a "firewall" against more radical, violent groups.

The Muslim Brotherhood, known in Arabic as "al-Ikhwan al-Muslimun" or simply "al-Ikhwan," was formed in the late 1920s by Egyptian religious scholar Hassan al-Banna. He conceived the group as a force for social good and it later became a powerful opponent of British colonial rule in Egypt. The group remained influential in Egyptian society, but was forced underground in the 1950s after being blamed for violent attacks and the assassination of Prime Minister Mahmoud al-Nuqrashi. One of the organization's most notable members, Sayyid Qutb is credited as the founder of modern jihadist thought.

The organization officially renounced violence in the 1980s, but remained banned in Egypt until the 2011 revolution. The following year, the candidate of the Muslim Brotherhood's Freedom and Justice Party, Mohammed Morsi, was elected president before being overthrown himself in 2013. Succeeding and current Egyptian President Sisi reinstated the group's designation as a terrorist organization. Trump reportedly spoke Tuesday with Sisi about fighting terror.

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The Muslim Brotherhood's ideology has garnered support from across the Middle East and beyond. In the 1980s, the organization's branch in the Gaza Strip formed the influential Palestinian movement Hamas, which now controls Gaza. Other Muslim Brotherhood branches went on to take elected positions in countries such as Tunisia, Afghanistan and Indonesia. However, opposition persisted from across the political spectrum. Secular, pan-Arabist governments such as Syria and Libya under late leader Muammar Gadhafi denounced the group's Islamist ideology, while conservative Gulf monarchies such as Bahrain and the UAE considered the Muslim Brotherhood a threat to their rule.

The Muslim's Brotherhood's presence in the U.S. has not been formally evaluated. After 9/11, federal authorities launched massive investigations of major Muslim organizations in the U.S. and concluded that a number such as the Chicago-based American Muslim Council and the Falls Church-based Muslim American Society were supportive of the Muslim Brotherhood's ideology. Neither organization has been found to maintain ties with terrorist groups nor has the Muslim Brotherhood been directly linked to any terrorist attack on U.S. soil.

Ted Cruz introduced the "Muslim Brotherhood Terrorist Designation Act" earlier this month in hopes of adding the Muslim Brotherhood to a list that includes the likes of Al Qaeda, the Islamic State group and Boko Haram. In response, the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), a nationwide Muslim civil liberties group, alleged Tuesday that Cruz's bill was originally conceived by former FBI Agent John Guandolo, who once accused former CIA Director John Brennan of being a secret Muslim." Guandolo left the bureau after he began an "intimate relationship with a confidential source" during an investigation, according to CAIR, and has since frequented right-wing and anti-Muslim conspiracy circles. CAIR was joined by several analysts and authors in arguing that the bill was designed to control Muslims in the U.S. and did not effectively serve the interests of national security.

An analysis conducted last month by the Pew Research Center revealed that a 2013 call for the U.S. government to designate the Muslim Brotherhood a terrorist organization was the tenth-most signed petition on former President Barack Obama's "We The People" website with over 200,000 signatures. The Obama administration responded to the popular petition.

We have not seen credible evidence that the Muslim Brotherhood has renounced its decades-long commitment to non-violence, the White House said in a 2013 statement.

Related Articles
For all the talk about the mutual admiration between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin , it may not be Russia that the U.S. president sees as America's critical new ally.

In his first few days in office, Trump scheduled a phone call with Narendra Modi , making the prime minister of India one of the first leaders he spoke to following his inauguration.

In its official statement Tuesday evening, the White House said that Trump and Modi "discussed opportunities to strengthen the partnership between the United States and India in broad areas such as the economy and defense."

Sources close to the prime minster said the conversation was focused on defense. The White House did not respond to a CNBC request for further comment.

A tightening of relations with India is something that was already accelerating under Barack Obama, whose administration saw the world's biggest democracy as a counterbalance to China's rising power. Trump may take the relationship further.

"Through successive administrations and strong congressional support, the United States has made tremendous investments to expand its relationship with India over the past several years," said Manpreet Anand, former U.S. deputy assistant secretary in the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs.



"The Trump administration has an opportunity to double down on those efforts as the strategic interests of our two countries continue to align," Anand told CNBC.

Foreign policy experts say Washington needs India to counter China's growing dominance in Asia  which Trump may be inadvertently encouraging  and to ensure the United States cements some type of influence in that part of the world.

That task is all the more important now that Trump has withdrawn from the Trans-Pacific Partnership . That free trade bloc, which had the United States at its center and which excluded China, would have further buttressed U.S. leadership in Asia. With the TPP off the table, however, China immediately has begun to step in to fill the void .



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"Many U.S. strategic thinkers see the rise of India as a natural balancer to China as beneficial to the U.S.," said Sasha Riser-Kositsky, Asia analyst at consulting firm Eurasia Group. "Over roughly the last 10 years, U.S. policy has broadly followed this logic, helping strengthen ties with India and offering unprecedented cooperation in terms of civilian nuclear power and co-development and co-production of defense technologies while asking relatively little in exchange."

Trump's hostile rhetoric toward Muslims plays well with some members of India's Hindu majority. India has a large Muslim minority, and the country has suffered many terror attacks within its borders that New Delhi claims are supported by Muslim-majority Pakistan. Modi's political party, called the Bharatiya Janata Party, has its roots in Hindu nationalism.



The White House also said on Tuesday that the two leaders of the largest democracies in the world discussed "security in the region of South and Central Asia."

India rarely gets involved in conflicts that do not directly involve the country, especially given India's perpetual border disputes with Pakistan . At the same time, however, during Modi's visit to Washington, which is expected sometime the year, the Indian leader will likely want Trump to take a more aggressive position toward Pakistan and support New Delhi's counterterrorism efforts.



Trump's rhetoric toward India  and Modi himself  has been consistently positive. Analysts say the U.S. president could be setting the table for a stronger relationship between Washington and New Delhi in the coming years and could ultimately elevate India's global profile, which has been a key objective for Modi. For years India has been living in the shadow of China as the second-best emerging market for investors.

Trump's and Modi's phone conversation on Tuesday came one week ahead of the release of India's annual budget, in which New Delhi is expected to announce further fiscal spending.

Despite economic headwinds and uncertainty around Trump's foreign policy, DoubleLine Capital's Jeffrey Gundlach told Barron's over the weekend that India is an attractive destination for investors. Bombay's Sensex stock index is trading about 6 percent below its all-time closing high.

One point of contention between Trump and Modi could be immigration. India is home to many companies that host technology work for U.S.-based companies  meaning that they employ Indians to do work previously done by American workers.

Companies in India are able to provide highly skilled workers at a discount to what Americans get paid. Trump arguably has been more outspoken about protecting U.S. jobs than any other president in decades.

"They also have a major item that needs to be resolved around IT outsourcing," said M.R. Rangaswami, a software executive and founder of Indiaspora, a U.S.-based community for people of Indian descent.

"The president has stated that jobs be kept in the U.S., while India is the place most Fortune 500 companies have direct IT operations or outsourcing partners. Most H-1B visas"  supposedly temporary passes that give skilled foreign nationals the right to work in the United States  "are used for supplementing the U.S. IT workforce by bringing professionals from India," Rangaswami said.

"This could become a messy issue that could cause tension."
Washington (AFP) - Resistance to President Donald Trump's crackdown on Muslim immigration mounted quickly Saturday, with the first legal challenge filed to an order branded as blatantly discriminatory.

The suit suggests Trump's order temporarily halting all refugee arrivals and that of travelers from seven Muslim countries deemed to be terror threats faces tough battles ahead in US courts.

The first challenge was filed by the American Civil Liberties Union and other advocacy groups after two Iraqi men were detained Friday night at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York.

It seeks their release on grounds of unlawful detention. One of them -- Hameed Khalid Darweesh, who has worked as interpreter and in other roles for the US in Iraq -- was in fact released on Saturday.

But 11 others remain detained at JFK, according to Democratic congressman Jerrold Nadler, who went there to press for the release of the first two.

"It is certainly mean-spirited and ill conceived," Nadler told CNN in reference to the crackdown. "It's certainly an instance of religious discrimination."

A demonstration was organized on short notice at JFK airport to protest the detentions, and another Democratic lawmaker, Nydia Velazquez, joined Nadler at the airport.

The advocacy groups asked that their challenge be given class action status so they can represent all refugees and travelers held up because of Trump's executive order on Friday.

The New York Times reported that airport authorities started detaining travelers as early as Friday night.

And reports abroad said people from the seven countries cited in the order were being prevented from boarding US-bound planes.

But it was not immediately clear how many travelers got caught up in Trump's crackdown, which he says is necessary to prevent Islamist terrorists from entering the US.

The largest African-American advocacy group in the US, the NAACP, said Trump's order will harm black Muslim families in America because many trace their heritage to Somalia, one of the seven countries cited in Trump's order.

"This will traumatize, terrorize, and potentially separate many American families," the NAACP Legal Defense Fund said.
WASHINGTON (AP)  A federal judge issued an emergency order Saturday night temporarily barring the U.S. from deporting people from nations subject to President Donald Trump's travel ban, saying travelers who had been detained had a strong argument that their legal rights had been violated.

The Department of Homeland Security issued a statement early Sunday that said the court order would not affect the overall implementation of the White House order and the court order affected a small number of travelers who were inconvenienced by security procedures upon their return.

"President Trump's Executive Orders remain in place_prohibited travel will remain prohibited, and the U.S. government retains its right to revoke visas at any time if required for national security or public safety," according to the DHS statement. Stephen Miller, a senior adviser to the White House, said: "Nothing in the Brooklyn judge's order in anyway impedes or prevents the implementation of the president's executive order which remains in full, complete and total effect."

U.S. District Judge Ann Donnelly in New York issued the emergency order after lawyers for the American Civil Liberties Union filed a court petition on behalf of people from seven predominantly Muslim nations who were detained at airports across the country as the ban took effect.

The judge's order addressed only a portion of Trump's executive action. As the decision was announced, cheers broke out in crowds of demonstrators who had gathered at American airports and outside the Brooklyn courthouse where the ruling was issued.

The order barred U.S. border agents from removing anyone who arrived in the U.S. with a valid visa from Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen. It also covered anyone with an approved refugee application.

It was unclear how quickly the judge's order might affect people in detention, or whether it would allow others to resume flying. The White House said the court ruling affected a small number of people who had boarded planes before the White House order was issued.

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Homeland Security said those travelers "were inconvenienced while enhanced security measures were implemented. These individuals went through enhanced security screenings and are being processed for entry to the United States, consistent with our immigration laws and judicial orders."

But the detention of the travelers caused a great deal of confusion.

"Realistically, we don't even know if people are going to be allowed onto the planes," said ACLU lawyer Lee Gelernt. "This order would protect people who they allow to come here and reach U.S. soil."

Under Trump's order, it had appeared that an untold number of foreign-born U.S. residents now traveling outside the U.S. could be stuck overseas for at least 90 days even though they held permanent residency "green cards" or other visas. However, an official with the Department of Homeland Security said Saturday night that no green-card holders from the seven countries cited in Trump's order had been prevented from entering the U.S.

Some foreign nationals who were allowed to board flights before the order was signed Friday had been detained at U.S. airports, told they were no longer welcome. The DHS official who briefed reporters by phone said 109 people who were in transit on airplanes had been denied entry and 173 had not been allowed to get on their planes overseas.

In her three-page order, Donnelly wrote that without the stay "there will be substantial and irreparable injury to refugees, visa-holders and other individuals from nations subject to the Jan. 27, 2017, executive order."

Trump billed his sweeping executive order as a necessary step to stop "radical Islamic terrorists" from coming to the U.S. It included a 90-day ban on travel to the U.S. by citizens of Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia or Yemen and a 120-day suspension of the U.S. refugee program.

Trump's order singled out Syrians for the most aggressive ban, indefinitely blocking entry for anyone from that country, including those fleeing civil war.

The directive did not do anything to prevent attacks from homegrown extremists who were already in America, a primary concern of federal law enforcement officials. It also omitted Saudi Arabia, home to most of the Sept. 11 hijackers.

As a candidate Trump pledged to temporarily ban Muslims from coming to the U.S., then said he would implement "extreme vetting" for people from countries with significant terror concerns. He told reporters Saturday the order is "not a Muslim ban."

"It's working out very nicely," Trump said of the implementation of his order. "We're going to have a very, very strict ban and we're going to have extreme vetting, which we should have had in this country for many years."

The order sparked protests at several of the nation's international airports, including New York's Kennedy and Chicago's O'Hare and facilities in Minneapolis and Dallas-Fort Worth. In San Francisco, hundreds blocked the street outside the arrival area of the international terminal. Several dozen demonstrated at the airport in Portland, Oregon, briefly disrupting light rail service while hoisting signs that read "Portland Coffee Is From Yemen" and chanting anti-Trump slogans. U.S. lawmakers and officials around the globe also criticized the move.

Two of the first people blocked from entering the United States were Iraqis with links to the U.S. military. Hameed Khalid Darweesh and Haider Sameer Abdulkhaleq Alshawi were detained by immigration officials after landing at New York's Kennedy airport Friday night. Both had been released by Saturday night after their lawyers intervened.

The government can exempt foreign nationals from the ban if their entry is deemed in the national interest. But it was not immediately clear how that exemption might be applied.

Diplomats from the seven countries singled out by Trump's order would still be allowed into the U.S.

Those already in the U.S. with a visa or green card would be allowed to stay, according to the official, who wasn't authorized to publicly discuss the details of how Trump's order was being put in place and spoke only on condition of anonymity.

Trump's order also directed U.S. officials to review information as needed to fully vet foreigners asking to come to the U.S. and draft a list of countries that don't provide that information. That left open the possibility that citizens of other countries could also face a travel ban.

The U.S. may still admit refugees on a case-by-case basis during the freeze, and the government would continue to process requests from people claiming religious persecution, "provided that the religion of the individual is a minority religion in the individual's country."

The Council on American-Islamic Relations said it would challenge the constitutionality of Trump's order.

"There is no evidence that refugees  the most thoroughly vetted of all people entering our nation  are a threat to national security," said Lena F. Masri, the group's national litigation director. "This is an order that is based on bigotry, not reality."

John Cohen, a former Department of Homeland Security counterterrorism official who worked under Democratic and Republican administrations, said the order didn't address America's "primary terrorism-related threat"  people already in the U.S. who become inspired by what they see on the internet.

Trump's order drew support from some Republican lawmakers who have urged more security measures for the refugee vetting program, particularly for those from Syria.

It is unclear how many people would be immediately impacted by the non-refugee travel ban. According to the statistics maintained by the Homeland Security Department, about 17,000 students from the seven designated countries were allowed into the U.S. for the 2015-2016 school year. In 2015 more than 86,000 people from those countries arrived in the U.S. on other, non-immigrant visas and more than 52,000 others became legal permanent residents.

Last year the U.S. resettled 85,000 people displaced by war, political oppression, hunger and religious prejudice, including more than 12,000 Syrians. Before leaving office President Barack Obama announced that the U.S. would accept 110,000 refugees in the coming year, but Trump's order cut that by more than half to 50,000.

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Associated Press writers Darlene Superville and Eric Tucker in Washington, Ellen Knickmeyer in San Francisco, Jeff Karoub in Detroit, and Karen Matthews, Rachel Zoll, Verena Dobnik and William Mathis in New York contributed to this report.

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Follow Alicia A. Caldwell on Twitter at www.twitter.com/acaldwellap
WASHINGTON (AP)  President Donald Trump had an hourlong discussion Saturday with Russian President Vladimir Putin  the first since Trump assumed office last week  raising questions over the fate of U.S. sanctions against Moscow and whether the two will look to enhance military cooperation against the Islamic State group.

The White House provided a thin readout on the call between the two leaders, saying it was "a significant start to improving the relationship between the United States and Russia that is in need of repair."

The two leaders discussed "a range in topics from mutual cooperation in defeating ISIS to efforts in working together to achieve more peace throughout the world including Syria," the White House statement said, using an acronym for the militant group.

A White House official later said sanctions did not come up in Saturday's call between Trump and Putin. The official said Putin brought up several times that Islamic terrorism was a "common foe" for the U.S. and Russia. The official was not authorized to disclose details of the call by name and insisted on anonymity.

Contrary to statements from the White House, the Kremlin said that the two leaders addressed the importance of "restoring mutually beneficial trade and economic ties between business circles of the two countries."

The Kremlin also said that Putin and Trump spoke in particular about international issues, including the fight against terrorism, the Arab-Israeli conflict, Iran's nuclear program, the situation on the Korean peninsula and the Ukraine crisis.

Moscow has applauded Trump's promises to rebuild U.S.-Russian relations, which have been pushed to their worst level since the Cold War by the Ukraine crisis, war in Syria and allegations of Russian meddling in U.S. elections. Trump signed a presidential memorandum on the plan to defeat the Islamic State group Saturday, including in it the possibility of teaming up with "new coalition partners," suggesting that pairing up with Russia on counterterrorism issues isn't off the table.

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Trump was noncommittal about whether he was considering lifting the economic sanctions ahead of the call, telling reporters Friday: "We'll see what happens. As far as the sanctions, very early to be talking about that."

In 2014, Russia annexed Ukraine's Crimea region and backed separatists fighting government forces in eastern Ukraine, drawing widespread condemnation in Europe and the United States.

In response, sanctions were implemented against sectors of Russia's economy, including financial services, energy, mining and defense. The Obama administration also sanctioned people in Putin's inner circle.

Shortly before leaving office, President Barack Obama also ordered sanctions on Russian spy agencies, closed two Russian compounds in the United States and expelled 35 diplomats that he said were really spies. These sanctions followed an assessment by U.S. intelligence that Moscow meddled in the 2016 election to help Trump become president.

Trump's tempered approach to U.S.-Russia relations has already raised concern among several European allies who believe keeping Russia in check is essential to regional security.

British Prime Minister Theresa May, whose country  as part of the European Union  also has punished Russia for its provocations in Ukraine, voiced the view of many in Europe, telling reporters in Washington on Friday: "We believe the sanctions should continue."

Vice President Mike Pence and other senior advisers joined Trump for the call with Putin, including his national security adviser, retired Gen. Michael Flynn, chief of staff Reince Priebus and senior strategist Steve Bannon. Trump also spoke on Saturday with the leaders of Japan, Germany, France and Australia.

Two Republican senators  Arizona's John McCain, chairman of the Armed Services Committee, and Ohio's Rob Portman, a member of the Foreign Relations Committee warned the White House about easing any punishments on Moscow and they pledged to turn the sanctions into law.

"I hope President Trump will put an end to this speculation and reject such a reckless course," McCain said in a statement. "If he does not, I will work with my colleagues to codify sanctions against Russia into law."

Portman said lifting the sanctions "for any reason other than a change in the behavior that led to those sanctions in the first place would send a dangerous message to a world already questioning the value of American leadership and the credibility of our commitments after eight years of Obama administration policies."

McCain has emerged as a frequent critic of Trump among Capitol Hill Republicans. He takes a dim view of trying to reset relations with Moscow and says Trump should remember that Putin is "a murderer and a thug who seeks to undermine American national security interests at every turn."

"For our commander in chief to think otherwise would be naive and dangerous," McCain said.

McCain and Portman are part of a bipartisan group of senators who have introduced legislation designed to go beyond the punishments against Russia already levied by Obama and to demonstrate to Trump that forcefully responding to Moscow's meddling isn't a partisan issue.

The bill would impose mandatory visa bans and freeze the financial assets of anyone who carries out cyberattacks against public or private computer systems and democratic institutions.

The legislation also mandates sanctions in Russia's all-important energy sector and on investments in the development of civil nuclear projects to rebuke Moscow for its provocations in eastern Ukraine and military support for Syrian President Bashar Assad.

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Associated Press writer Howard Amos in Moscow contributed to this report.
By Steve Holland and Elizabeth Piper WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump said on Friday he is only in the early stages of considering whether to lift U.S. sanctions on Russia, as British Prime Minister Theresa May, other foreign officials and U.S. lawmakers cautioned that such a move would be premature. With Trump expected to speak by phone on Saturday with Russian President Vladimir Putin for the first time since taking power a week ago, speculation has been rife that he is close to lifting sanctions imposed by then-President Barack Obama over Moscow's annexation of Ukraine's Crimea Peninsula in 2014. Such a move would likely cause consternation among European allies as well as many in the U.S. Congress who are also troubled by Russia's intervention in the Syrian civil war and by U.S. intelligence agencies' finding that Moscow meddled in the U.S. election campaign. "As far as the sanctions, (it is) very early to be talking about that," Trump said, while insisting that he wanted to follow through on his campaign pledge to pursue better relations with Russia. His caution on the Russian sanctions came in response to a question at a joint news conference at the White House with May, the first foreign leader to visit the president since his inauguration. May made clear Britain wants to continue sanctions until Putin carries out the requirements in a ceasefire agreement arranged in Minsk, Belarus, in 2014. This view is shared by European allies who fear Putin could become more expansionist if he feels Trump will not intervene. "We believe the sanctions should continue until we see the Minsk agreement fully implemented. And weve been continuing to argue that inside the European Union," May said. The boisterous Trump and reserved May took pains to demonstrate a readiness to maintain the "special relationship" between the United States and Britain, something that is particularly important for May as she steers Britain out of the European Union. They posed for photos before a bust of Winston Churchill in the Oval Office and Trump accepted an invitation from Queen Elizabeth to visit Britain later this year. The two leaders held hands briefly as they walked down the White House colonnade to their news conference in the East Room. Later, they lunched on beef shortribs in the State Dining Room. At the news conference, Trump showed flashes of the pugnacious willingness to dispense with formality that helped him win the Nov. 8 election, registering his displeasure when a British reporter asked him what he had to say to those who are "worried about you becoming the leader of the free world." "This was your choice of a question?" Trump said with a half smile. Then, nodding toward May as laughter erupted, he added: "There goes that relationship." On ties with Moscow, Trump has long bucked establishment Washington thinking by voicing a belief that, as he said on Friday, it would be a "tremendous asset" to have a positive relationship with Russia. 'RECKLESS COURSE' A long-time Putin critic, U.S. Senator John McCain, who like Trump is a Republican, urged Trump not to lift the sanctions, saying that he should "reject such a reckless course." "If he does not, I will work with my colleagues to codify sanctions against Russia into law," said McCain, a long-time Putin critic. House of Representatives Speaker Paul Ryan, the top U.S. elected Republican, told Politico of the sanctions that "I think they should stay." Former NATO chief Anders Fogh Rasmussen, now an adviser to Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko, urged caution against reversing sanctions without winning concessions from Moscow, saying that, "easing sanctions will only embolden Russias aggression in the region, putting the security interests of Ukraine and the United States in jeopardy." The White House encounter between Trump and May was heavily scrutinized for signs on how the relationship would develop between the leaders of two key members of the NATO alliance, who are markedly different in style but who both owe their rise to power to a tide of anti-establishment feeling in their countries. Im not as brash as you might think, Trump said at the news conference. Im a people person and I think you are too, Theresa. I think we're going to have a fantastic relationship." Trump, a wealthy real estate developer and former reality TV star, had never held public office when he was elected in November. May stepped in to lead Britain after the June referendum Brexit vote to leave the EU that prompted her Conservative predecessor, David Cameron, to resign. It was notable that Trump did not give much in the way of vocal support for NATO, which he has previously declared obsolete. It was left up to May to issue support for NATO in her opening remarks at their news conference, and to encourage Trump's backing.On defence and security cooperation, we are united in our recognition of NATO as the bulwark of our collective defence, she said. "Today weve reaffirmed our unshakeable commitment to this alliance  Mr. President I think you confirmed that you are 100 percent behind NATO." (Refiles to clarify in 14th and 15th paragraphs on McCain's remark on Trump and lifting of sanction; clarifying to show that comment "if he does not" refers to rejection of "a reckless course.") (Writing by Steve Holland and Jeff Mason; Editing by Frances Kerry)
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Donald Trump said on Saturday his executive order curbing immigration into the United States was not a ban on Muslims and was working out well. "It's not a Muslim ban," Trump told reporters in the Oval Office at the White House. "It's working out very nicely. You see it at the airports, you see it all over." The new Republican president on Friday put a four-month hold on allowing refugees into the United States and temporarily barred travelers from Syria and six other Muslim-majority countries. He said the moves would protect Americans from terrorism, in a swift and stern delivery on a campaign promise. "We're going to have a very, very strict ban and we're going to have extreme vetting, which we should have had in this country for many years," Trump said. (Reporting by Jeff Mason; Editing by Alan Crosby)
By Emily, Stephenson and Eric Knecht WASHINGTON/CAIRO (Reuters) - Five Iraqi passengers and one Yemeni were barred from boarding an EgyptAir flight from Cairo to New York on Saturday after President Donald Trump halted the entry of citizens from seven Muslim-majority countries, sources at Cairo airport said. The passengers, arriving in transit to Cairo airport, were stopped and re-directed to flights headed for their home countries despite holding valid visas, the sources said. Trump on Friday put a four-month hold on allowing refugees into the United States and temporarily barred travelers from Syria and six other Muslim-majority countries, saying the moves would help protect Americans from terrorist attacks. He said his most sweeping use of his presidential powers since taking office a week ago, barring travelers from the seven nations for at least 90 days, would give his administration time to develop more stringent screening procedures for refugees, immigrants and visitors. "I'm establishing new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the United States of America. Don't want them here," Trump said earlier on Friday at the Pentagon. "We only want to admit those into our country who will support our country and love deeply our people," he said. The bans, though temporary, took effect immediately, causing havoc and confusion for would-be travelers with passports from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen. Besides Cairo it was not immediately clear whether other airports of countries listed by Trump had swiftly implemented the ban. Arab officials of the listed countries would not comment on the matter. The order seeks to prioritize refugees fleeing religious persecution, a move Trump separately said was aimed at helping Christians in Syria. That led some legal experts to question whether the order was constitutional. One group said it would announce a court challenge on Monday. The Council on American-Islamic Relations said the order targets Muslims because of their faith, contravening the U.S. Constitutional right to freedom of religion. "President Trump has cloaked what is a discriminatory ban against nationals of Muslim countries under the banner of national security," said Greg Chen of the American Immigration Lawyers Association. Trump has long pledged to take this kind of action, making it a prominent feature of his campaign for the Nov. 8 election. But people who work with Muslim immigrants and refugees were scrambling to determine the scope of the order. Even legal permanent residents - people with "green cards" allowing them to live and work in the United States - were being advised to consult immigration lawyers before traveling outside the country, or trying to return, according to Muslim Advocates, a civil rights group in Washington. On Friday evening, Abed Ayoub of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee said he had fielded about 100 queries from people anxious about the order, which he said he believed could affect traveling green card holders, students, people coming to the United States for medical care and others. "It's chaos," Ayoub said. SYRIAN REFUGEES During his campaign, Trump tapped into American fears about Islamic State militants and the flood of migrants into Europe from Syria's civil war, saying refugees could be a "Trojan horse" that allowed attackers to enter the United States. In December 2015, he called for a ban on all Muslims entering the United States, drawing fire for suggesting a religious test for immigrants that critics said would violate the U.S. Constitution. His idea later evolved into a proposal for "extreme vetting." Trump's order also suspends the Syrian refugee program until further notice, and will eventually give priority to minority religious groups fleeing persecution. Trump said in an interview with the Christian Broadcasting Network that the exception would help Syrian Christians fleeing the civil war there. Legal experts were divided on whether this order would be constitutional. "If they are thinking about an exception for Christians, in almost any other legal context discriminating in favor of one religion and against another religion could violate the constitution," said Stephen Legomsky, a former chief counsel at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services in the Obama administration. But Peter Spiro, a professor at Temple University Beasley School of Law, said Trump's action would likely be constitutional because the president and Congress are allowed considerable deference when it comes to asylum decisions. "It's a completely plausible prioritization, to the extent this group is actually being persecuted," Spiro said. The order may also affect special refugee programs for Iraqis who worked for the U.S. government as translators after the 2003 invasion of Iraq. It is already affecting refugees and their families, said Jen Smyers of the Church World Service, a Protestant faith-based group that works with migrants. Smyers said she spoke to an Iraqi mother whose twin daughters remain in Iraq due to processing delays. "Those two 18-year-old daughters won't be able to join their mother in the U.S.," she said. POLITICAL FIRE Democrats on Friday were quick to condemn Trump's order as un-American, saying it would tarnish the reputation of the United States as a land that welcomes immigrants. "Today's executive order from President Trump is more about extreme xenophobia than extreme vetting," said Democratic Senator Edward Markey in a statement. Some Republicans praised the move. Representative Bob Goodlatte, chairman of the House of Representatives Judiciary Committee, said Islamic State has threatened to use the U.S. immigration system, making it important to do more screening. "I am pleased that President Trump is using the tools granted to him by Congress and the power granted by the Constitution to help keep America safe and ensure we know who is entering the United States," Goodlatte said in a statement. Without naming Trump, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday it was no time to build walls between nations and criticized steps towards cancelling world trade agreements. Trump on Wednesday ordered the construction of a U.S.-Mexican border wall, a major promise during his election campaign, as part of a package of measures to curb illegal immigration. "Today is not the time to erect walls between nations. They have forgotten that the Berlin wall fell years ago," Rouhani said in a speech carried live on Iranian state television. He made no direct reference to Trump's order regarding refugees and travelers from the seven mainly Muslim states. Rouhani, a pragmatist elected in 2013, thawed Iran's relations with world powers after years of confrontation and engineered its 2015 deal with them under which it curbed its nuclear program in exchange for relief from sanctions. Rouhani said earlier this month that Trump could not unilaterally cancel the nuclear deal and that talk of renegotiating it was "meaningless". France and Germany voiced disquiet on Saturday over Trump's new restrictions on immigration. "Welcoming refugees who flee war and oppression is part of our duty," French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault said at a joint news conference with German counterpart Sigmar Gabriel. "The United States is a country where Christian traditions have an important meaning. Loving your neighbor is a major Christian value, and that includes helping people," said Gabriel. "I think that is what unites us in the West, and I think that is what we want to make clear to the Americans." (Additional reporting by Mica Rosenberg, Andrew Chung, Eric Beech, Mohammad Zargham, Dan Levine, Michelle Nichols, Julia Edwards Ainsley, Andrea Shalal and Firouz Sedarat; writing by Roberta Rampton and Samia Nakhoul; editing by Mark Heinrich)
Washington (AFP) - US President Donald Trump spoke by phone on Saturday with various world leaders, amid growing international alarm and a legal challenge over his moves to drastically limit Muslim immigration to the United States.

In a flurry of calls that started early in the morning and rounded out an already frantically paced week, Trump spoke with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Russian President Vladimir Putin. He has calls planned for later in the day with French President Francois Hollande and Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.

The conversations gave the US president an early opportunity to explain new policies that have baffled and unnerved much of the rest of the world -- particularly his order to temporarily halt all refugee arrivals and those of travelers from seven mainly Muslim countries including war-wracked Syria.

The calls also allow him to start developing ties with countries that have been close allies with the United States in recent history, as well as Russia -- a perennial foe, but a country with which Trump has said he is keen to improve relations.

- 'Extreme vetting' -

Trump's pronouncement on Muslim immigration makes good on one of his most controversial campaign promises to subject travelers from Islamic countries to "extreme vetting," which he declared would make America safe from "radical Islamic terrorists."

"This is big stuff," the new US president declared at the Pentagon on Friday, after signing an executive order entitled "Protection of the nation from foreign terrorist entry into the United States."

The decree suspends the entire US refugee resettlement program for at least 120 days while tough vetting rules are established.

The new protocols "ensure that those approved for refugee admission do not pose a threat to the security and welfare of the United States."

In addition, they specifically bar Syrian refugees from the United States indefinitely, or until the president himself decides that they no longer pose a threat.

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Meanwhile, no visas will be issued for 90 days to migrants or visitors from seven mainly Muslim countries: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

- Detentions already under way -

US authorities wasted no time implementing Trump's order, detaining travelers arriving at American airports within hours of the measures being signed, media reports said Saturday.

The New York Times reported that airport officials as early as Friday night began detaining travelers, some of whom were already aboard their flights when Trump announced his executive order.

The order also lays the groundwork for what Trump has pledged will be "extreme vetting" of visa applicants' backgrounds -- with some exceptions for members of "religious minorities," a caveat many see as a way to apply favorable treatment to Christians from majority-Muslim states.

US rights groups filed a legal challenge Saturday after two Iraqi men were detained Friday night at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York.

The American Civil Liberties Union and other advocacy groups are seeking the men's release on grounds that they are being held unlawfully, and asked that they be freed so they could at least request asylum and avoid being sent back to Iraq.

The groups asked for their suit to be considered a class action on behalf of all people held up in the same way. The two Iraqi men have valid visas, the documents stated.

- 'Greatest nation' -

One of them had worked for the US government in Iraq for 10 years and the other was coming to America to join his wife, who had worked for a US contractor, the lawsuit said.

The former, Hameed Khalid Darweesh, was released later in the day and spoke to reporters at the airport.

"America is the greatest nation, the greatest people in the world," Darweesh said.

Asked what he would say to Trump, he added: "I like him. But I don't know. This is a policy I don't know. He's a president. I'm a normal person."

Mark Doss, a supervising attorney at the International Refugee Project at the Urban Justice Center, said Darweesh's detention and release showed the new policy was being implemented "with no guidance."

Immigration advocacy groups issued an appeal for demonstrations at JFK airport, which spread rapidly over social media.

According to Camille Mackler of the New York Immigration Coalition, two New York lawmakers went to the airport to try to gain access to the men.

International groups and civil liberties organizations have roundly condemned Trump's orders.

"'Extreme vetting' is just a euphemism for discriminating against Muslims," said Anthony Romero, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union.

Romero said Trump's order breached the US constitution's ban on religious discrimination by choosing countries with Muslim majorities for tougher treatment.

Many foreign leaders said they were aghast over the new US policy.

Iran answered in kind by saying it would ban Americans from entering the country, calling Trump's action insulting.

But the US leader did get backing from Czech President Milos Zeman, who praised him for being "concerned with the safety of his citizens."
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) -- Many citizens of Muslim-majority countries affected by President Donald Trump's curbs on travel to the United States say they were hardly surprised the restrictions rank among his first orders of business.

The new commander-in-chief had, after all, once called for a "complete and total shutdown" of Muslim arrivals, and in his inaugural speech vowed to eradicate "radical Islamic terrorism" from the face of the earth.

But that doesn't make news of the clampdown sting any less for those on the receiving end.

"No one is surprised but everyone is disappointed, especially with the height of hope with (Barack) Obama," said Khalid al-Baih, a 36-year-old political cartoonist from Sudan. He fears new American visa restrictions will now have a knock-on effect. "Whatever America does, the rest of the world follows."

Shadi Sabbagh, a 40-year-old resident of Syria's capital, Damascus, who has a sister in the U.S., feels let down too by what he called "unnatural" proposals to restrict the flow of refugees into the U.S.

"America is a nation of immigrants and no one can ever ban immigration," he said. "What is our fault if some Muslims committed some wrong actions? Should we, as Christians, bear the consequences?"

The executive order issued Friday by Trump imposes a 120-day suspension of the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program and a 90-day ban on all entry to the U.S. from countries with terrorism concerns. The three-month ban applies to Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen. The order also halts entry by Syrian refugees until the president determines that changes to the refugee program ensure that admitting them won't compromise national security.

Abbas al-Bayati, an Iraqi Shiite member of parliament, said the curbs will send the wrong message to Iraqis at a time when Washington is counting on Iraqi forces to battle Islamic State militants in tough close-quarters combat in the northern city of Mosul.

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"The United States and Iraq always stressed that they are allies," al-Bayati said, noting American commitments to support democracy in Iraq. He urged the Trump administration to reconsider its decision "for the good of the two countries."

Fellow Iraqi lawmaker Majid Chenkali, a Kurdish Sunni, was less diplomatic, saying Iraq should respond with similar visa policies for Americans.

"It should be an eye for an eye," he said.

Mohammed ElBaradei, Nobel Peace Prize laureate and Egypt's former vice president who now lives in self-imposed exile, posted on Twitter: "Will there be an Arab action to make us feel that we have some dignity?"

It was not immediately clear how Trump's plans would affect Syrians scattered all over the globe.

Close to 5 million Syrians have fled the country's brutal war since 2011, when an uprising against President Bashar Assad's rule erupted in the country's south. Most struggle to survive in tough conditions in neighboring countries, and many have relatives who have settled in the U.S.

Trump said during his campaign that he would suspend arrivals from Syria, portraying them as a potential security threat.

George, a 58-year-old businessman in Damascus, whose wife and two daughters fled the war and have been living in the U.S. for five years, said Americans already treat Syrians very badly, and that security measures greeting Syrians at U.S. airports are terrible.

The man, who declined to give his last name for security concerns, said that although he has U.S. residency, he still suffers every time he travels to America. "If the treatment of Syrians gets worse, we will pack our bags and return home."

Iranian actress Taraneh Alidoosti, star of the Oscar-nominated "The Salesman," said she would boycott the Academy Awards to protest Trump's immigration policies.

"Trump's visa ban for Iranians is racist," she posted on Twitter.

Tehran-based diplomatic analyst Hassan Hanizadeh said Trump's move will do nothing to improve strained relations between Washington and Tehran, and will only make things more difficult for ordinary Iranians who travel to the U.S. to visit family. There are believed to be more than one million Iranians and Iranian-Americans living in the U.S.

"As expected, Trump has launched aggressive policies against Islamic countries, including Iran," Hanizadeh said.

On the streets of Tehran, Iranians echoed that sentiment.

"Trump has targeted ordinary Iranians since he cannot do anything against the Iranian government," said car mechanic Borzou Ahmadi, 35.

Simin Ghaderi, a 43-year-old teacher, said the plan shows a lack of knowledge among American decision-makers.

"Just look at passports of those who were involved in terrorist activities in the U.S. and the west. How many of them were Iranian citizens?" he said.

The 9/11 attacks, for example, were mostly carried out by citizens of Saudi Arabia, a U.S. ally and Iran's regional rival. American citizens were responsible for other recent deadly attacks.

Several prominent mass-casualty terrorist attacks on American soil, including the 9/11 terrorist attacks, have been carried out by Sunni militant groups and have not involved Iranian citizens.

The United States has listed Iran a state sponsor of terrorism since 1984  four years after Washington severed diplomatic relations in the wake of the 1979 Islamic Revolution and storming of the U.S. Embassy. The Islamic Republic backs a number of Middle Eastern militant groups, including Lebanon's Hezbollah and the Palestinian group Hamas.

But Iran also finds common ground with the U.S. in its opposition to the Islamic State militant group, which views the Shiite sect of Islam that most Iranians follow as heretical.

Mohammad Saghafi, an undergraduate electric engineering student in Tehran Azad University, said he is thinking twice about trying to pursue further education in the U.S. because of the ban.

"I may continue my education in Canada or Germany," he said. "Their leaders do not react like teenagers, at least."

For some in the Middle East, the proposed ban won't change much  either because they had no plans to visit the U.S. or couldn't get in when they tried.

"I'd rather go somewhere else like Thailand as a tourist than the U.S.," said Ahmadi, the Iranian mechanic.

Mounir al-Khayat, 31-year-old banker from Syria who was born and raised in Kuwait, said it has always been tough for Syrians to get American visas, even before Trump's election. He has been refused a tourist visa, as have others he knows.

"I was told that because I am Syrian, the authorities there are not sure if I will return," he said.

"It has always been there, this travel ban," he continued. "Trump just made it official."

Advocacy groups for refugees condemned the order in emotional terms, saying the policy exacerbated the suffering of vulnerable people while abandoning American values.

James Zogby, president of the Arab American Institute, who is Christian, said he was especially upset about the exemption for persecuted religious minorities in the order. The preferential treatment, clearly meant for Christians, would generate resentment of communities already at serious risk, he said.

"It's wrongheaded and dangerous in terms of the Middle East," Zogby said.

___

Associated Press writers Fay Abuelgasim in Dubai, Albert Aji in Damascus, Syria, Nasser Karimi and Amir Vahdat in Tehran, Iran, Hussain al-Qatari in Kuwait City, Maggie Michael in Cairo and Ahmed Sami in Baghdad contributed to this report.

Follow Adam Schreck on Twitter at www.twitter.com/adamschreck
President Donald Trump took a major political risk after his public standoff with Mexico, which ended with a cancellation of a meeting between him and the country's president, CNBC's Jim Cramer said on Friday.



On Thursday, the White House suggested imposing a 20 percent tax on goods imported from Mexico to pay for a wall at the southern U.S. border as Mexican President Pena Nieto continues to say he will not foot the construction bill. The move comes as a rift between the two countries widened on Thursday as a meeting between the two presidents was canceled.



Nieto said he would not attend the planned meeting. Trump said on Thursday via Twitter (NYSE: TWTR) "it would be better to cancel" a meeting with the Mexican president if he were unwilling to pay.

This marks the first serious splinter in US-Mexico relations the U.S. has seen in some time, Cramer said, and could cause more Republicans in Congress to break ranks, as Sen. John McCain has on key issues, including on trade deals with foreign countries.

"The 20 percent tax, the idea that this is not about jobs as much as it is just a spat between to countries that have had very good relations. The spat should be about NAFTA. The spat should be about the way we set up trade with the Mexicans," Cramer said on " Squawk on the Street ."

"I don't think the spat should be about not talking to each other, which is what Vicente Fox was saying," he said, referring to an interview on CNBC's " Squawk Box ," when former Mexican President Fox blasted Trump, calling him a "child."

Cramer said Trump is beginning to learn that other nations can't be bullied, and when attacked, they push back. He said they have 'their own nationalist political dynamics."

Moreover, Trump's plans are likely to hit a few road blocks from unexpected places, Cramer said, adding "I believe Mexico has some friends in the Senate."





More From CNBC


By Christine Murray MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - Billionaire Carlos Slim said on Friday that Mexico should not fear Donald Trump, seeing opportunities for his country in the U.S. president's economic policies, and praising Mexicans for uniting behind their government in talks with the northern neighbor. In a rare news conference, the telecommunications and construction mogul called Trump a negotiator, "not Terminator" and said his repeated attacks on Mexico had united the country, giving President Enrique Pena Nieto "strength" in trade and border security talks. "This is the most surprising example of national unity that I've had the pleasure of seeing in my life," said Slim, who turns 77 on Saturday. He compared Mexicans' response to that when a devastating earthquake that hit Mexico City in 1985. "We have to back the president of Mexico so he defends our national interests." Slim spoke to reporters after Pena Nieto on Thursday canceled a planned Washington summit with Trump following a tweet by the American that he should stay away unless Mexico agreed to pay for a border wall. Aiming to cool tensions, the two presidents spoke for an hour by phone on Friday, and the battered peso currency strengthened. Trump's threats to impose steep tariffs on Mexican products have ravaged the peso and spread worries about the economy, which is heavily dependent on the U.S. market. However, Slim, who spoke out against his fellow billionaire during the U.S. election campaign but had dinner with him after the Nov. 8 victory at the polls, said Trump's policies aimed at growing the U.S. economy would boost Mexico's growth as well as provide jobs for Mexican laborers living north of the border. "The circumstances in the United States are very favorable for Mexico," Slim said, adding that he has not had any communication with Trump's team since the December dinner. "It wasn't a romance," he joked about the meeting. TRUMP'S "REGRESSIVE UTOPIAS" Referring repeatedly to Trump's books and other writings, Slim argued that people should not be surprised at Trump's actions because it is all in his book "Great Again: How to Fix Our Crippled America," which Slim said he had not finished reading. "He's a great negotiator," Slim said. He said businesses should not be too worried if Trump's policies led to the collapse of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) underpinning Mexico's economy, saying the country could fall back on World Trade Organization tariffs. He said Mexican workers in the United States would benefit from Trump's planned infrastructure push, but warned that U.S. protectionism and other policies could hurt American consumers. "Among these changes is a return to the past, what a dear friend called 'regressive utopias'," he said, calling on the United States to focus on advanced manufacturing. Asked about Trump's plan to build a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border, Slim said the best barrier to illegal immigration would be investment that created opportunities and jobs in Mexico. Before the highly-anticipated news conference, speculation had been growing about whether Slim might try to run for president in 2018, but he poured cold water on that talk. "I think I can do more on the business side," he said. Slim's largest companies do not have much obvious exposure to any border tax Trump might impose on Mexican imports. His high-profile holding in the New York Times Co, made him a target during the U.S. campaign, when Trump accused him of using the newspaper to try to help Democratic Party candidate Hillary Clinton. Slim's shares have limited voting rights. Slim on Friday said he had been selling New York Times stock, but his son-in-law later said this was not correct. At the conference he was flanked by two of his sons, Carlos and Marco Antonio, and his son-in-law, Arturo Elias, with other family members watching. Most of the Slim family's wealth comes from Latin America-focused telecoms giant America Movil. America Movil does have a substantial U.S. business called TracFone which sells prepaid phone plans to customers and rents the networks of big operators. His next largest companies are retail and industrial conglomerate Grupo Carso and Mexico-focused bank Grupo Financiero Inbursa. (Writing by Frank Jack Daniel; Editing by Andrew Hay and Jonathan Oatis)
By Stephanie Nebehay GENEVA (Reuters) - The United Nations refugee agency and International Organization for Migration (IOM) called on the Trump administration on Saturday to continue offering asylum to people fleeing war and persecution, saying its resettlement programme was vital. U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday put a four-month hold on allowing refugees into the United States and temporarily barred travelers from Syria and six other Muslim-majority countries, saying the moves would help protect Americans from terrorist attacks. "The needs of refugees and migrants worldwide have never been greater and the U.S. resettlement program is one of the most important in the world," the two Geneva-based agencies said in a joint statement. Trump stopped the entry of travelers from Syria and the six other nations - Iraq, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen - for at least 90 days, saying his administration needed time to develop more stringent screening processes for refugees, immigrants and visitors. IOM and UNHCR said they remained committed to working with the U.S. administration towards a shared goal of ensuring "safe and secure resettlement and immigration programmes". "We strongly believe that refugees should receive equal treatment for protection and assistance, and opportunities for resettlement, regardless of their religion, nationality or race," they said. Resettlement places provided by every country for vulnerable refugees, some of whom require special medical treatment not available in their first country of asylum, are vital, the agencies said. More than 30 countries take part in the programme, which starts with vetting by the UNHCR. The agencies said they hope "the U.S. will continue its strong leadership role and long tradition of protecting those who are fleeing conflict and persecution". Some 25,000 refugees were resettled in the United States between October and year-end under the UNHCR's programme for the most vulnerable, the agency said on Friday. A host of U.S. federal government agencies are involved and extensive background checks are carried out, UNHCR spokeswoman Vannina Maestracci told a briefing. "I think it's fair to say that refugees coming into the United States to be resettled are some of the most vetted individuals entering the United States," she said. The IOM wants migration to be legal, safe and secure for all, including for destination countries, spokesman Joel Millman said. "So we hope 90 days is a temporary time and we stand ready to assist any way we can," Millman told Reuters Television. "We're concerned that any delay might force some people to start from the beginning but generally speaking it's a long, long process and probably 90 days is something most people will be willing to wait because they have been waiting years already." (Additional reporting by Cecile Mantovani; Editing by Dominic Evans and Helen Popper)
ANKARA/LONDON (Reuters) - British Prime Minister Theresa May faced severe criticism from lawmakers across Britain, including from her own party, for not speaking out against U.S. President Donald Trump's curbs on immigration. The new president on Friday put a four-month hold on allowing refugees into the United States and temporarily barred travelers from Syria and six other Muslim-majority countries, a move he said would protect Americans from violent Islamists. His executive order plunged America's immigration system into chaos, with legal U.S. residents being turned away at airports, and drew criticism from U.S. Western allies including France and Germany. However, when asked about the ban at a joint news conference with Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim in Ankara, May declined to voice any criticism and replied Washington was responsible for its policy on refugees. May, who became the first leader to meet the president following his inauguration last week, had been enjoying a positive response at home for revitalising the "special relationship" between the United States and Britain. However, her stance on Trump's ban was met with anger from across the political divide. "Trump really is a sickening piece of work," lawmaker Sarah Wollaston, a member of May's Conservative Party, said on Twitter. She said Trump should be snubbed by parliament when he comes for a planned state visit to Britain later this year. "I don't care how special the relationship is, some lines just shouldn't be crossed," Conservative lawmaker Heidi Allen said in a tweet. "Strong leadership means not being afraid to tell someone powerful when they're wrong. It's an ethos this country is proud of." A third Conservative member of parliament, Nadhim Zahawi said he would be banned from the United States as a British citizen of Iraqi origin. "A sad sad day to feel like a second class citizen," he tweeted. "Sad day for the USA." Jeremy Corbyn, leader of the main opposition Labour Party, said May should have stood up to Trump. "It should sadden our country that she chose not to," he said. (Reporting by Elizabeth Piper and Michael Holden, Writing by David Dolan; editing by Ralph Boulton and Mary Milliken)
United Nations (United States) (AFP) - The United Nations hopes that US President Donald Trump's decision to ban refugees is a temporary measure and that they will again be given protection, its spokesman said Saturday.

"We hope that the measures concerning the suspension of refugee flows are temporary as refugee protection needs have never been greater," said UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric.

"The US resettlement program is one of the most important ones in the world."

Trump on Friday signed an executive order suspending the US refugee resettlement program for 120 days.

In addition, all visa applications from seven Muslim countries -- Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen - were put on hold for at least 90 days.

The UN refugee agency UNHCR and the International Organization for Migration said in a joint statement that they hoped the United States "will continue its strong leadership role and long tradition of protecting those who are fleeing conflict and persecution."

On Friday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told a Holocaust commemoration that discrimination against migrants and refugees along with the stereotyping of Muslims were opening the door to more extreme hatred.

"A 'new normal' of public discourse is taking hold, in which prejudice is given a free pass and the door is opened to even more extreme hatred," Guterres told the General Assembly.
Washington (AFP) - The US refugee resettlement program that President Donald Trump suspended has long been the world's most generous source of sanctuary for victims of conflict.

A week after taking office, citing the supposed threat of violent extremists hidden among Muslim refugee arrivals, Trump halted the program for at least 120 days.

Even if the program is revived in some form after this period, this will dramatically curtail the world's humanitarian effort to resettle vulnerable refugees.

In 2015, the United States alone was responsible for allowing in and finding homes for 64 percent of those referred to world governments by the UN High Commissioner for Refugees.

Under President Barack Obama in the 2016 US fiscal year -- which ran from October 1, 2015 to September 30, 2016 -- the United States admitted 84,994 refugees from around the world.

And already in this fiscal year, another 25,671 have come, as US officials raced to cope with large numbers fleeing extremist violence and civil war in Syria, Yemen and Libya.

Before leaving office, Obama set a target of 110,000 admissions in the 2017 fiscal year that ends on September 30. Trump's order slashes that figure to 50,000.

In its last report to Congress on the subject, the Obama administration said it expected to have just over $1.5 billion to spend on the refugee program in the 2017 fiscal year.

New resettlements did not stop when Trump, who had harsh words for the program on the campaign trail last year, came to office on January 20 and began drawing up executive orders.

In fact, in the single week since Inauguration Day, the United States resettled 2,089 people.

Crucially, many of these come from countries that Trump's administration has singled out for special scrutiny: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

- Extreme vetting -

The new administration claims that these mainly Muslim and in some cases unstable nations could be a source of extremist infiltration.

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But in fact, no refugee who passed through the resettlement program -- which involves a thorough investigation by US authorities -- has ever been convicted of a terrorist crime.

In addition to facing the same suspension in the refugee program as citizens of other states, would-be visitors or immigrants from these countries will not be allowed to seek visas during a 90-day period.

During this time, Trump has ordered senior staff to conduct a review of security procedures for migrants, visitors and refugees with a view to imposing "extreme vetting" on future applicants.

Pro-Trump media such as the nationalist site Breitbart, formerly run by the president's chief of strategy Steve Bannon, have criticized the State Department for continuing to welcome new arrivals.

But in the week since Trump came to power, 142 Iranians, 218 Iraqis, 211 Somalis, 37 Sudanese, 296 Syrians and a Yemeni have begun new lives in the United States.
Federal judge again blocks Texas fetal remains rules: AUSTIN, Texas  A federal judge late Friday again blocked Texas rules mandating burial or cremation of fetal remains, in a victory for abortion rights groups. Austin-based U.S. District Judge Sam Sparks said that the health department regulations would remain suspended until further notice and that a trial date would be set in coming weeks. Opponents argue they could unduly shame and burden women seeking abortions. The rules seek to ban hospitals and clinics from disposing of fetal remains from abortions or miscarriages as biological medical waste.

Pentagon orders cost reviews of F-35 fighter, Air Force One: WASHINGTON  Defense Secretary James Mattis on Friday ordered reviews of two key Air Force aircraft programs that have been criticized by President Donald Trump as too expensive. Mattis asked Deputy Defense Secretary Robert Work to conduct a review of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program to find ways to significantly reduce the costs. Mattis also asked for a review of the presidential aircraft program  known as Air Force One  to identify cost savings.

More than 100 fast-spreading wildfires rage: CONCEPCION, Chile  Flames from more than 100 raging wildfires in Chile continued spreading from the mountains to the Pacific coast, destroying forests, livestock and entire towns in a destructive path that is now dangerously close to the city of Concepcion. Authorities said they found a body Friday, raising the overall death toll to 11. About 118 fires remain active and 53 of those are contained. Officials were hopeful that light rains and lower temperatures would provide some relief.
Washington (AFP) - A social media "resistance" movement is taking shape against the Trump administration, inspired by the new president's efforts to control information.

It began after the deletion of tweets and data from official US accounts and websites which proved embarrassing to the new president, including government reports on climate change, which have been challenged by President Donald Trump.

Some took to Twitter with "alternative" handles -- claiming to be federal employees exercising their free speech rights -- and the resistance mushroomed into a movement.

The seeds of rebellion were first planted by the National Park Service, which came under fire from the new administration for its photos comparing crowd size at Trump's inauguration to the event eight years earlier with Barack Obama.

After those tweets were deleted, tweets from one national park's account -- which according to some reports came from a former employee -- offered links to climate change studies, and when those were removed, a new @AltNatParkSer sprung up and amassed 1.2 million followers in a matter of days.

The account is described as "The Unofficial #Resistance team of US National Park Service."

"We don't want any trouble. We just want to keep peer-reviewed 'factually accurate' climate science flowing out of US institutions," the group said in one of its first tweets.

Over the next few days, dozens of "rogue" or "alt" Twitter accounts emerged, including @RogueNOAA (for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), @RogueNASA (for the space agency) and @alt_fda for the Food and Drug Administration.

Another account called AltEPA (@ActualEPAFacts), with more than 150,000 followers, aims to offer data which might be suppressed by the Environmental Protection Agency.

"He can take our official Twitter but he'll never take our FREEDOM," the account says. "UNOFFICIALLY resisting."

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The messages were gaining traction with hashtags such as #ResistTrump, #ClimateFacts and #Twistance, although it was not clear if the messages were coming from federal employees themselves.

Some of the Twitter handles, according to various tweets, have been turned over to people outside government to avoid potential reprisals.

White House spokesman Sean Spicer denied the administration was trying to suppress free expression among federal employees.

"There's nothing that's come from the White House, absolutely not," he said when asked if the White House had ordered a clampdown.

But according to The Washington Post, Trump personally expressed anger to the head of the US park service over the inauguration day photos and ordered him to produce images to show a stronger turnout for his ceremony.

- Arab Spring redux? -

Philip Howard, a professor at the Oxford Internet Institute who has studied the role of social media in the Arab Spring uprisings, said he sees some parallels to those events.

"Whenever governments try to close up the supply of information, people look for new ways to express themselves and share information," Howard said.

"Social media resistance was an important part of the Arab Spring, during which protesters successfully used social media to turn roiling dissent into massive street protests. It is hard to know if social media will have the same role in the US, because Trump and his political communication team are already actively there on Twitter and Facebook."

John Wonderlich, executive director for the Sunlight Foundation, a group promoting transparency in government, called these actions unprecedented.

"It's a new kind mass resistance from employees who feel they can't talk to the public, and they are finding alternative channels," Wonderlich said.

"What is amazing is the public response, which is amplifying those voices."

Still, Wonderlich said the Trump administration's efforts to suppress and control data have raised concerns about the trustworthiness of information from the government.

"What we are seeing from the White House is anti-science, anti-government, anti-civil service and broad politicization of the federal workforce," he said.

"All government information under a Trump administration is going to be inherently suspect."

But because anyone can create a Twitter account and claim to represent a constituency, this makes it difficult to separate truth from misinformation, Wonderlich said.

"This means a new model of verification (is needed) and no one has figured that out," he said.
New York (AFP) - US rights groups filed a legal challenge Saturday to President Donald Trump's order halting the arrival of refugees and travelers from seven Muslim countries.

The suit was filed by the American Civil Liberties Union and other advocacy groups after two Iraqi men were detained Friday night at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York. It seeks their release on grounds of unlawful detention.

The groups asked that the challenge be given class action status so they can represent all refugees and travelers held up because of Trump's executive order on Friday.

The New York Times reported that airport authorities started detaining travelers as early as Friday night.

It said one of the Iraqi men held in New York had worked for the US government in Iraq for 10 years and the other was coming to America to join his wife, who had worked for a US contractor.

The Times quoted their lawyers as saying both men had valid visas to travel to the United States.

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Well, thats awkward timing.

Just as President Donald Trump takes action to fulfill his campaign promise to build a wall along the Mexican border, his wife, First Lady Melania Trump, is gracing the cover of Vanity Fair Mexicos February issue  which dubs her the new Jackie Kennedy.

The image, released Thursday, features the 46-year-old former model in a Douglas Friedman-shot photo. Poised in a sleeveless white dress, she sits at a table with a fork in her hand  appearing as if shes about to dig into a bowl of spaghetti.

Except its not spaghetti. Its a bowl filled with sparkling diamond and gems  much like the jewelry worn on her wrists and hands.

The shot was originally taken for an April 2016 story in GQ magazine, which like Vanity Fair is owned by Conde Nast. The Vanity Fair Mexico cover story also comes from the GQ interview.

Melania Trump, en portada de febrero. Un reportaje que desvela como fue el pasado de esta intrigante primera dama. https://t.co/WP298EtGug pic.twitter.com/ZUNOvkYaEI  Vanity Fair Mexico (@VanityFairMX) January 26, 2017

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The release comes a day after the president signed executive orders to begin construction on his promised wall  using federal funding that he has promised will be reimbursed by Mexico. He also pledged to boost U.S. Border Patrol.

Hes already hit a roadblock in fulfilling his vow to make Mexico pay for his border wall, however. On Thursday, Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto released a firm reiteration of Mexicos refusal to fund a U.S. border wall  canceling plans to meet with Trump next Tuesday to discuss trade and immigration.

This morning we told the White House we wont attend next Tuesdays meeting with @POTUS, Pena Nieto wrote on Twitter in Spanish on Thursday morning, according to Politicos translation. Mexico reiterates its will to work with the U.S. to achieve agreements for both of us.

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Trump had threatened to cancel the meeting himself earlier on Thursday, and would later claim that he and Pena Nieto had agreed to removing the discussions from their calendars. As he wrote on Twitter:

The U.S. has a 60 billion dollar trade deficit with Mexico. It has been a one-sided deal from the beginning of NAFTA with massive numbers  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 26, 2017

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of jobs and companies lost. If Mexico is unwilling to pay for the badly needed wall, then it would be better to cancel the upcoming meeting.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 26, 2017

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He was responding to a video statement Pena Nieto posted to his Twitter Wednesday night, in which the Mexican president said he regrets and rejects Trumps orders cracking down on illegal immigration, and stressed: I have said it over and over again: Mexico will not pay for any wall.

(Trump spokesman Sean Spicer said Thursday that the U.S. could effectively get funding for the wall from Mexico by imposing a 20 percent tax on all imports from Mexico.)

Un mensaje para todos los mexicanos: pic.twitter.com/EFcNh7fQtm  Enrique Pena Nieto (@EPN) January 26, 2017

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Pena Nieto also addressed his nation, declaring that Mexico does not believe in walls, and promising to protect Mexicans in the United States. Where there is a Mexican migrant at risk that requires our support, your country should be there, he said in Spanish, according to the NBC News translation. Our communities are not alone. The Mexican government will provide them with the legal advice, which guarantees the protection they require. The 50 Mexican consulates in the United States will become authentic advocates for the rights of migrants.

Mexico offers and demands respect as the fully sovereign nation we are, he said, according to NBC News.

RELATED VIDEO: Watch: Natasha Stoynoff Breaks Silence, Accuses Donald Trump of Sexual Attack

Former Mexican President Vicente Fox put it even more bluntly to press secretary Spicer on Wednesday.

Sean Spicer, Ive said this to @realDonaldTrump and now Ill tell you: Mexico is not going to pay for that fing wall.#FingWall, Fox tweeted.

Spicer, traveling with the president to Philadelphia Thursday, downplayed the standoff with Americas ally to the south. Of the canceled meeting with Mexicos Pena Nieto, Spicer told reporters aboard Air Force One: We will look for a date to schedule something in the future. We will keep the lines of communication open.

Indeed, the two leaders spoke by phone on Friday, The New York Times and other outlets confirmed.




Views from Americas National Parks View of the Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah August 19, 2012. (REUTERS/Charles Platiau)

The United States has 59 protected areas known as national parks that are operated by the National Park Service, an agency of the Department of the Interior. National parks must be established by an act of the United States Congress.

The first national park, Yellowstone, was signed into law by President Ulysses S. Grant in 1872, followed by Mackinac National Park in 1875 (decommissioned in 1895), and then Rock Creek Park (later merged into National Capital Parks), Sequoia and Yosemite in 1890. The Organic Act of 1916 created the National Park Service to conserve the scenery and the natural and historic objects and wildlife therein, and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations.

Many current National Parks had been previously protected as National Monuments by the President under the Antiquities Act before being upgraded by Congress. Seven national parks (including six in Alaska) are paired with a National Preserve, areas with different levels of protection that are administered together but considered separate units and whose areas are not included in the figures below.

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DOHA, Qatar (AP)  Jeunghun Wang broke through a crowded leaderboard with a 7-under 65 in Saturday's third round to open a three-shot lead at the Qatar Masters.

The 21-year-old South Korean, who is 15-under 201 overall, made three birdies around the turn to grab the lead, and never relinquished it with two birdies in his last three holes.

It was the best round on another windy day in Doha.

Spain's Nacho Elvira and South African Jaco van Zyl both shot 4-under 68s to tie for second place at 12 under.

Another South African, Thomas Aiken (69), was a shot further behind in fourth.

Wang, a back-to-back winner on the European Tour last year in May at the Trophee Hassan II and AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open, put up an exhibition of shot-making, hitting 16 out of 18 greens in regulation and also completing his round in just 27 putts. He went out in 33, and came back in 32.

"My iron play was really good today and my putting was really good," said Wang, now ranked 60th in the world.

Elvira could have finished much closer to Wang, but a poor tee shot cost him a double bogey on the par-4 15th.

"I think it's a great round today with these wind conditions," said the 29-year-old Elvira, who is yet to win on the European Tour.

Van Zyl was left slightly disappointed despite a bogey-free round of 68. He made only one birdie on the four par-5s, and also missed a couple of short birdie chances.

"I have been hitting it nicely, so yeah, obviously it's a good score. But really felt like I left quite a lot out there," he said.

Ernie Els (71) was tied 18th at 7 under, while Martin Kaymer improved to tied 23rd with a 4-under 68.

There was a nine-way tie for the lead ahead of the third round, a European Tour record.

The last time nine players were tied on top was after the first round of the 1997 Wales Open, but this was the first time in Tour history so many had led after 36 holes.

(This story has been corrected to show that Ernie Els is 7 under, not 5 under, after the end of the third round.)
By Mica Rosenberg (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump said on Friday his administration wants more rigorous screening of refugees and visitors from certain countries to prevent terrorist attacks. Here is what Trump's order on "extreme vetting" - denounced by civil rights groups as discriminatory - includes. TEMPORARY SUSPENSION OF VISAS FOR CERTAIN COUNTRIES The order bars the entry of foreign nationals from certain countries for 90 days. While no countries are specifically named in the order, it refers to a statute that would apply to seven Muslim-majority nations: Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia, Yemen and Iraq. There is an exception for certain types of visas, including for diplomats and the United Nations. The temporary halt is aimed at giving the Department of Homeland Security, the State Department and the Director of National Intelligence time to determine what information is needed from each country to ensure that visas are not issued to individuals posing a national security threat. CHANGES TO SCREENING FOR IMMIGRATION PROGRAMS The order calls for a review to create a single process for screening people entering the country, which could include holding more in-person interviews, searches of an expanded database of identity documents or longer application forms. Under the current system, some visa applications require interviews but others do not. The government already has extensive databases but some believe they need to be expanded. The order suspends the Visa Interview Waiver Program, which allows consular officers to exempt some applicants from face-to-face interviews if they are seeking to renew their temporary visas within a year of expiration. Immigration attorneys say the changes will make even routine applications much more complicated and time consuming and could mean that more people will need assistance to get through the visa process. In an attempt to ensure wait times for interviews are "not unduly affected," the order calls for the hiring of more consular fellows to work in U.S. embassies abroad. RESTRICTING REFUGEES The order calls for the temporary halt of all refugee admissions for four months so the government can study the process and determine if additional checks are necessary, although there will be case-by-case exceptions. The order also implemented a blanket ban of all Syrian refugees until "sufficient changes" have been made to the refugee program, without giving more details. After the suspension is lifted, the government will give priority to applicants that are suffering religious-based prosecution, but only if they are minorities in their country. Trump said in a television interview that the move would protect Christians. It could also protect ethnic minorities like the Yazidis in the Middle East. This could potentially open the door to legal challenges claiming religious discrimination, some legal experts say. Once refugee admissions resume, fewer will be allowed. The 2017 cap was set at 50,000 people, compared to 85,000 designated by President Barack Obama for 2016. In a nod to certain states and cities that have objected to refugee resettlement, the order also seeks to give state and local jurisdictions a role in deciding whether or not to allow people to live there. COMPLETING THE "BIOMETRIC ENTRY-EXIT TRACKING SYSTEM" The system is aimed at tracking foreign visitors' arrival and departure using information like finger prints. Former President Barack Obama's administration had aimed to start implementing biometric exit checks at the country's largest airports by 2018. Some experts have said that for the system to work properly, it would need to cover all land, air, and sea ports of entry, which is a major undertaking. According to a 2014 report from the Bipartisan Policy Center the system would be expensive to implement and would "offer mixed value for enforcement objectives." (This version of the story has been refiled to fix spelling of "Iraq" in paragraph 3) (Reporting by Mica Rosenberg; Editing by Tom Hogue)
All eyes are on President Donald Trump as he preps for his first formal meeting with another prominent world leader on Friday, British Prime Minister Theresa May.

But the White House buildup to the historic meeting between the leaders, who are hoping to continue the tradition of the two countries special relationship, was marred by one glaring hiccup: the spelling of her name.

In a release sent out by the office of the White House Press Secretary just before 7:55 p.m. on Thursday, Mays given name was incorrectly written as Teresa three separate times.

White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer has yet to speak about the error, but at 8:24 pm Thursday his office did an email blast with an updated schedule that quietly included corrected spelling of Theresa throughout.

The release outlined Trumps schedule for Friday, including his 12:10 p.m. meeting with May in the Oval Office, followed by a joint press conference positioned for 1:00 p.m.

During her trip to the United States this week, May told reporters that she believed she and Trump would have a strong working relationship, despite their differences.

Havent you ever noticed, sometimes opposites attract? she said, according to The Guardian.

May told reporters that she planned to discuss the importance of NATO with Trump  a contrast to the presidents stance as a strong critic of the alliance.

RELATED VIDEO: Watch: Natasha Stoynoff Breaks Silence, Accuses Donald Trump of Sexual Attack

In Philadelphia on Thursday, May addressed GOP leaders gathered in Philadelphia for their annual retreat, cautiously touching on Trumps much-discussed relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

With President Putin, my advice is to engage, but beware, May told those gathered, according to CNN. We should engage with Russia from a position of strength and build the relationship, systems, and processes that make cooperation more likely than conflict.




Most people know Emmett Till as the 14-year-old black boy who was murdered in Aug. 1955 by two white men, J.W. Milam and his half-brother Roy Bryant, because Bryants then-wife said the boy apparently flirted and made sexual advances toward her.

Now, Carolyn Bryant Donham (who has since been divorced and remarried twice more) has come clean and said she was lying, Vanity Fair reported Friday. In a new book, The Blood of Emmett Till, author Timothy Tyson, a Duke University senior research scholar, revealed that in 2007, Donham, who was 72 at the time, told him that although she didn't recall all of the details that transpired the day Till came into Bryants store in Money Rd, Mississippi, some of the testimony she gave during the trial was fabricated.

When Tyson asked her about her claim that Till whistled and made verbal and physical advances towards her, she said, That parts not true.

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Photo: Getty Images

Till was visiting Mississippi from Chicago. More than 500 black people had been lynched in the state before Till's death. Most of the victims were accused of associating with white women.

Till was kidnapped, beaten and shot in August 1955 by the Donhams husband and his half-brother four days after she made the then explosive claims. Bryant said his wife told him that Till said hed slept with white women before.

As a result, Bryant and Miliam lynched the boy by Mississippi's Tallahatchie River, where his body was later discovered.

Nothing that boy did could ever justify what happened to him, Donham said in Tysons book.

Despite the significant amount of evidence that Bryant and Miliam committed the act, they were acquitted by an all-white jury. The deliberation only took an hour.

Tills mother, Mamie Till Mobley, held an open-casket funeral, despite the gruesome image of her teens disfigured face.

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Photo: Scott Olson/Getty Images

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Till's 1955 case was one of the instances that sparked the Civil Rights movement.

The news of Emmett's death caused me...to participate in the cry for justice and equal rights, Rosa Parks said.

Donham, now 82, disappeared and went into hiding in the years after the trial. Her whereabouts are reportedly unknown.

She claimed she felt tender sorrow for Tills mother, who died on Jan. 6, 2003 at the age of 81.

Both Donhams ex-husband and brother in-law are dead.

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While the Beltway establishment gathered on the U.S. Capitols west side with legions of Middle Americans in Make America Great Again hats, the House of Representatives approved the final pre-inauguration details.

The quick session opened with a prayer by the chaplain, Father Patrick J. Conroy.

God of the universe, we give you thanks for giving us another day. You are the father of us all, and your divine providence has led this nation in the past, he said, before offering prayers for your servant, Donald Trump. The Jesuit prayed for the new president to see things as you see things and strive to hold all of us to higher standards of equal justice, true goodness and peaceful union.

Conroy closed with a poignant prayer for the blunt and ever-controversial New York City billionaire: We pray that he become his best self.

Add that to the file of Jan. 20 prayers to analyze.

As always with inauguration ceremonies  the high-church rites of American civil religion  references to God were almost as common as those to the nations new leader. This ceremony included six clergy offering their own chosen prayers and scriptures and was framed by private and public worship services.

Journalists and activists then read between the lines, seeking messages aimed at Trump and his fans, as well as at God. The bottom line: In cyberspace, combatants now subtweet their adversaries, offering subtle criticisms behind their social-media backs. This inauguration offered plenty of opportunities for participants to engage in some theological subtweeting. The eyebrow-raising messages included:

At a rite in which the ever-confident author of The Art of the Deal became president, Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York read words from the Book of Wisdom, including: Indeed, though one might be perfect among mortals, if wisdom, which comes from you, be lacking, we count for nothing.

The Rev. Franklin Graham added an improvised blessing that resembled a form of divine endorsement, noting: Mr. President, in the Bible, rain is a sign of Gods blessing. And it started to rain, Mr. President, when you came to the platform to give the inaugural address.

The Rev. Samuel Rodriguez of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference had previously criticized Trumps rhetoric on Hispanics and immigration. Thus, was he sending a message as he read from a modern translation of the Sermon on the Mount? The reading included: God blesses those who are humble, for they will inherit the whole earth. God blesses those who hunger and thirst for justice, for they will be satisfied. God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy.

Pope Francis took part, with a message to Trump that went viral online. Was there embedded criticism here? At a time when our human family is beset by grave humanitarian crises demanding far-sighted and united political responses, I pray that your decisions will be guided by the rich spiritual and ethical values that have shaped the history of the American people and your nations commitment to the advancement of human dignity and freedom worldwide. The message concluded: Under your leadership, may Americas stature continue to be measured above all by its concern for the poor, the outcast and those in need who, like Lazarus, stand before our door.

The president, of course, included religious themes in his address, including, during a salute to the military, a promise that most importantly, we are protected by God. At the end of his address, Trump offered these ringing words.

Together, we will make America strong again. We will make America wealthy again. We will make America proud again. We will make America safe again. And yes, together, we will make America great again. ... God bless you. And God bless America.

For one veteran evangelical communications professional, that final phrase sounded more like a command, as opposed to a prayer. It helps, said James A. Smith Sr., to remember that song lyrics state: Let us all be grateful for a land so fair, as we raise our voices in a solemn prayer: God bless America, land that I love. Stand beside her and guide her, through the night with a light from above.

Thus, Smith tweeted: Mr. President, we pray for Gods protection; we dont presume upon it. #Inauguration
NATICK, Mass. (AP)  A suburban Boston museum with a huge trove of World War II-era items has acquired two key documents, including one from the Germans demanding the U.S. surrender.

The Natick-based Museum of World War II says the latest additions "epitomize the American spirit at the end of the war."

The museum says it acquired the English version of a German letter demanding the U.S. surrender at Bastogne, Belgium, in 1944.

That demand prompted U.S. Gen. Anthony McAuliffe's legendary retort: "NUTS!"

McAuliffe and the 101st Airborne Division were able to hold Bastogne during the Battle of the Bulge, considered one of the U.S. military's greatest triumphs.

The museum says it's also acquired an original and previously unknown mimeographed period copy of the Potsdam Proclamation, which had called for Japan's unconditional surrender.
Aden (AFP) - Yemeni government forces have advanced into the Red Sea town of Mokha but Shiite Huthi rebels are still putting up fierce resistance, a military official said on Saturday.

Forces loyal to President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi, backed by a Saudi-led Arab coalition, captured the police headquarters and several surrounding streets late on Friday, the official said.

Deadly clashes have shaken the town after loyalist forces launched an offensive nearly three weeks ago to oust the rebels and their allies from the southern part of the Red Sea coastline.

Since Friday alone, at least 19 rebels have been killed and 23 wounded, a medical source in the rebel-held port city of Hodeida further north said.

Eight loyalist troops have been killed and 13 wounded, medical sources in the government-held second city of Aden said.

The rebels' only escape route is to the north after loyalist forces surrounded Mokha from the east and the south, the military official said.

The waters off the port are blockaded by coalition warships and Apache helicopters.

Mokha was Yemen's main port serving as its export hub for coffee until it was overtaken by Aden and Hodeida in the 19th century.

Nearly 260 combatants have been killed since government forces launched their drive up the Red Sea coastline on January 7.

They have already retaken the Dhubab district further south in their biggest advance in months.

The offensive comes with the president and his coalition backers under mounting international pressure to agree to a UN ceasefire plan.

In a speech to the Security Council on Thursday, UN envoy Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed criticised Hadi for rejecting his proposals for a transition that would see him cede much of his power to a vice president who would oversee a government of national unity.

"President Hadi continues to criticise the proposals without agreeing to discuss them and this will hinder and impede the path towards peace," the envoy said.

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The UN has also criticised the coalition air and sea blockade of rebel areas, warning that it is impeding the delivery of desperately needed aid to millions of civilians.

The world body says about 14 million people -- nearly 80 percent of the Yemeni population -- are in need of food aid.

Elsewhere, suspected Al-Qaeda gunmen Saturday killed the special security forces head in the southern province of Abyan, Major Rushdi al-Alwani, and three guards, a security official said.

He said gunmen ambushed Alwani's car in the town of Loder.

Al-Qaeda's franchise in Yemen, Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP), is seen by Washington as the jihadist network's most dangerous franchise.

It and the rival Islamic State group have exploited the power vacuum created by fighting between the government and Huthis to expand their presence in Yemen, especially in the south.
In The Know by Yahoo

Jack Yioupis is enjoying his sophomore year at Iona University as co-captain of the Super Smash Bros. Ultimate team.
Prince Harry just recreated a famous photo of his mom, Princess Diana, and now were melting

Were going to go ahead and call it. 2017 is the Year of Prince Harry.

January isnt even over, and hes already taken his girlfriend Meghan Markle on the most dreamy romantic getaway we could imagine, pledged to save endangered black rhinos from extinction and taken an important stand for mental health alongside Prince William and Princess Kate. Since Queen Elizabeth II announced plans to cut back on her royal engagements this year, the younger royals are stepping up to the plate. And were here for it! (Because were generally in favor of anything that gives us more Prince Harry in our newsfeed. OBVIOUSLY.)

Yesterday, Harry went for a run through London with The Running Charity, Britains very first running program for homeless and at-risk youth. Ready to hit the streets, he met with teens and charity organizers at the Depaul hostel in Willesden Green beforehand.

The location of the meeting had special meaning for Harry because his mother, Princess Diana, helped open the home for vulnerable and homeless teens back in June 1995.

When Prince Harry arrived at the hostel yesterday morning, he noticed a photograph of his mom hanging on the wall. The framed pic showed Diana posing with a group of young people on the shelters staircase.

Just seeing Prince Harry smile at this photo is enough to give us a serious case of the feels. But brace yourselvestheres more.

Harry recreated the photo by posing in the same spot, with the same arms-crossed posture as his mom, surrounded by current residents of the hostel.

Prince Harry Visits The Running Charity

*sniffle*

According to Martin Houghton-Brown, the U.K. chief executive of the Depaul group of hostels, Princess Diana not only helped open the shelter, but she also came back to visit with residents at a later time. He told People, She really connected with the young people, and returned in a private capacity to play ball games with them.

Princess Diana, known as The Peoples Princess, was famous for her charity work and the way she connected with people from all walks of life, particularly those in need. By all appearances, Harry is most definitely his mothers son. Hes started his own charity, Sentebale, in Lesotho, Africa, and has spoken openly about wanting to honoring his moms legacy by carrying on her important work. Princess Diana was killed in a tragic car accident in Paris when Prince Harry was only twelve years old.

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After Harrys visit yesterday, Alex Eagle, founder of The Running Charity, said, The prince observed that a lot of young people who use our charities have been let down in the early stages of life and that their success is defined by how they pick themselves up.

Well done, Prince Harry. And if you feel like going for another run anytime soon, give us a call. Were down.

BRB. Off to buy running shoes.
During the run-up to the 2016 Presidential election, Donald Trump was extraordinarily coy about releasing his tax returns. While boasting that he had nothing to hide, Trump delicately danced around the issue by claiming that he couldnt release his tax returns as he was undergoing an audit. Later on, he said he would gladly release his tax returns if Hillary Clinton released her deleted emails.

Don't Miss: The iPhone 7 might be losing a fight with its older brother

Of course, Trumps efforts to avoid releasing his tax returns is nothing new. Recall, he engaged in a widely publicized bait-and-switch a few years ago, promising to release the returns if Barack Obama released his long form birth certificate. Once that happened in 2011, Trump promised he would release his tax returns at the appropriate time.

Now, in 2017, Trumps tax returns are still nowhere to be seen. Funny enough, Trump over the past few weeks has said that no one even cares about his tax returns anymore.

Alas, that couldnt be farther from the truth.

A current WhiteHouse.gov petition seeking to have Trump release his tax returns has already garnered more than 385,000 signatures, easily making it the most widely supported initiative to ever appear on the White House website.

The petition reads: The unprecedented economic conflicts of this administration need to be visible to the American people, including any pertinent documentation which can reveal the foreign influences and financial interests which may put Donald Trump in conflict with the emoluments clause of the Constitution.

The White House petition system is anything but binding, but it has reached the designated 100,000 threshold to warrant an official response from the powers that be.

As it stands now, its a safe bet that Trump will never release his tax returns. Addressing the issue a few days ago, Kellyanne Conway said: The White House response is that hes not going to release his tax returns. We litigated this all through the election. People didnt care. They voted for him.

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Consequently, Trump will be the first President in nearly four decades to shield his tax returns from the public.

Trending right now:

See the original version of this article on BGR.com
Contact: Daniel Keylin

Daniel Keylin daniel_keylin@tillis.senate.gov

WASHINGTON, D.C. Earlier today, Governor Cooper announced that North Carolina has received more than $198 million in federal assistance for Hurricane Matthew recovery that was secured by Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) and other members of North Carolina's Congressional delegation.In December, Congress passed a continuing resolution (CR) that provides North Carolina with more than $300 million in recovery assistance for damage caused by Hurricane Matthew. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) led the North Carolina Congressional delegation's effort to secure the disaster assistance for North Carolina, which began today with the allocation of more than $198 million from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in the form of Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funding.The CDBG-DR funding will support family and community needs, including housing, infrastructure, and jobs. The funding will be critical for Eastern North Carolina's recovery efforts in the wake of Hurricane Matthew.said Senator Tillis.
DALLAS (TNS)  When Daryl Glenn Pawlak logged into a large child pornography website and downloaded images using his work computer, he was charged with receipt and possession of child pornography.

The operator of the website that was exploiting children, however, was not arrested.

Thats because it was the FBI. And federal prosecutors are defending the agencys decision to secretly hijack and peddle child porn for two weeks as part of a sting operation.

During that time, tens of thousands of images of child pornography were uploaded to the site.

Not only was the government the largest distributor of child pornography  it was also the largest exploiter of children, Pawlaks attorney said in a court filing. This conduct is the essence of outrageousness, and a serious need for deterrence exists.

The case has ignited debate among legal scholars and defense attorneys about internet privacy and the FBIs decision to keep such a website up and running while more children were harmed.

Dozens of defense attorneys have filed motions to suppress evidence from the controversial child pornography sting, called Operation Pacifier. In some cases, federal judges have granted those motions. But most attempts to get charges thrown out have failed, legal experts say, even though some judges have ruled that the government violated the law and acted inappropriately.

Joining legal challenges nationwide, Pawlaks attorneys are trying to get the charges dismissed, arguing that the government went too far by using a single warrant in Virginia to hack the computers of people all over the country, including his client.

The American Civil Liberties Union compared it to Operation Fast and Furious, a failed sting operation run by the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives beginning in 2009 that resulted in 2,000 firearms winding up in the hands of criminals.

In that case, ATF allowed people to illegally buy the guns to traffic to Mexico in the hopes of tracking them to Mexican drug cartel leaders. But that didnt happen, and instead the agency lost track of the guns, including two that were found at the scene of the 2010 murder of a U.S. Border Patrol agent.

The FBI declined to comment about Operation Pacifier. The U.S. attorneys office in Dallas said in court filings that it acted within the law and that dismissing the case would give people like Pawlak a free pass for trolling the web for photos and videos of children being sexually abused.

The FBIs process here should be encouraged, not deterred, a prosecutor in Dallas said in a court filing.

Defense attorneys say the matter will eventually be resolved in the appellate courts, if not the U.S. Supreme Court.

Historically, the government has taken down such websites immediately.

Douglas Anderson, chair of the University of North Texas philosophy and religion department, said the government was conducting a cost-benefit analysis, weighing damage to children against catching people who download child porn.

He said he was surprised children were used in such a calculation.

Its a moral conundrum for anyone who takes the view that we are committed to protecting them in all ways, Anderson said. Theyre weighing it against these kids lives.

World opinion says we have a basic duty to protect children, Anderson said.

Youd have to have something pretty overwhelming to offset damaging more people, he said. It would have to be awfully extreme to allow even one child to be harmed.

'Dark web' Playpen

The FBI in early 2015 seized, controlled and monitored a child pornography website on the dark web called Playpen for about two weeks.

Playpen began operating around August 2014 on the Tor Network, a group of volunteer-operated servers that allows users to browse the internet anonymously using free software.

A username and password were required to view the images. A foreign law enforcement agencys tip led the FBI to Playpens server, authorities said.

In February, the FBI obtained a search warrant from a federal judge in Virginia that allowed the agency to run Playpen for up to 30 days on a government-controlled server.

Agents hacked into the computers of people who logged into Playpen and accessed its content. Agents were not authorized to rummage through a computers files or search other content, court records said.

Pawlak, 39, created a Playpen account in September 2014 and accessed the website more than 300 times, prosecutors said. In less than a second, agents knew what computer the Burleson man was using. That led to the two child pornography charges against him.

Pawlak was indicted on July 6 in Dallas and remains free on bond. A hearing on the matter is scheduled for later this month.

Several men were charged with similar offenses in federal court in Houston under the same FBI operation, including a former pediatrician at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center.

The FBI took quick action to locate otherwise anonymous child predators and received the blessing of two federal judges to conduct the short-term, monitored operation that was authorized by a warrant, Assistant U.S. Attorney Jamie L. Hoxie said in court records filed in Pawlaks case.

During the operation, numerous users were identified, leading to child pornography charges against about 180 people nationwide, including those producing images, court records show. At least 49 children were rescued from abuse, authorities said.

A suspect

Pawlak works at North Texas fracking sites that drill for natural gas for his job in the energy industry, according to court documents. Prosecutors say he used his work-issued laptop computers to view and download child pornography. He accessed the images from August 2014 to May 2015, according to the indictment.

Pawlak spoke to an FBI agent on the phone when agents searched his home in October 2015, court records show. He made clear that his interests in children and child pornography go far beyond the FBIs limited, monitored operation involving the Playpen website, Hoxie said in a court filing.

Pawlak told agents he first viewed child pornography in 2012 when a work colleague sent it to his work email, records show.

Thereafter, Pawlaks interest in child pornography continued due to a perceived element of danger or excitement, Hoxie said in a court filing. He preferred to view child pornography depicting girls that were between 7 and 11 years old.

The FBI found hundreds of child pornography images from his current and former work computers, records said. Pawlak is charged with receipt and possession of child pornography.

Pawlak sought out child pornography, including images depicting young girls the same age as his own daughter being raped and sexually humiliated by grown men, Hoxie wrote for the government.

Hoxie said that while the technology the FBI used was somewhat novel, it was within the bounds of the law.

The FBI received the rare opportunity to make a dent in the otherwise impervious community of child predators using Tor to victimize children, she wrote.

'Leaps and bounds'

Steven Jumes, Pawlaks attorney, wrote in a Dec. 28 motion to dismiss the indictment that the FBI hosted an estimated 22,000 images, videos and links of child pornography that more than 100,000 people accessed.

The government has taken leaps and bounds over the line of acceptable investigative techniques when it exploited and re-victimized thousands of children without taking any precautions to minimize the harm to them, Jumes said in the motion. Congress has long recognized that each viewing of child pornography re-victimizes the child.

The harm to victims is lifelong, he said, because its impossible to completely eradicate all copies of the images.

The line of what constitutes going too far has been so offensively disregarded that such outrageous conduct can only be said to violate due process, Jumes wrote.

Jumes also said in the motion that dismissing the case against his client admittedly puts the court in the position of rewarding an indicted wrongdoer.

But he said hes asking for a dismissal not to reward Pawlak but to uphold the integrity of law enforcement action.

The government denies its conduct was outrageous.

The reality the FBI faced was that taking down the Playpen site, without catching its thousands of users, would not stop the child-pornography problem, Hoxie wrote in a court filing.

But a federal judge in the state of Washington ruled in November in an Operation Pacifier case that the governments conduct was exactly that.

U.S. District Judge Robert J. Bryan wrote that the government improved the child porn websites technical functionality and that it re-victimized hundreds of children by keeping the website online.

The government used the child victims as bait to apprehend viewers of child pornography without informing the victims and without the victims permission  or that of their families, Bryan wrote in his ruling.

However, the judge declined to dismiss the charges in the case, saying the government acted in good faith and did not violate search and seizure standards.

The defense

Colin Fieman, a federal public defender in Tacoma, Wash., has coordinated with defense attorneys across the nation on Operation Pacifier cases. He said the difficulty is in showing that the defendant was permanently harmed by the government misconduct.

Hopefully, someone in Washington cares about it from an ethical standpoint and maybe something good will come of it, Fieman said.

Fieman said the FBI took no steps to block the more shocking parts of the website, like instructions on how to abuse children.

The criminal cases are still relatively new, he said, and will be resolved in the appellate courts.

There is still a long way to go, Fieman said.

Andrew Crocker, staff attorney with the Electronic Frontier Foundation, a San Francisco nonprofit group dealing with civil liberties in the digital world, said the government abused its power in these cases.

They got a single warrant to hack into the computers of anyone visiting this website without any limitation, he said.

Warrants have to say exactly who will be searched and where, he said. But this case gave the government authorization for vast hacking operations. Prosecutors should use a more targeted approach, seeking warrants on specific users, he said. Crocker called it unprecedented for a single warrant to give rise to this many prosecutions.

It was as if they said, We can search anywhere, Crocker said. The breadth of this operation is what we are objecting to  hacking into a computer is very invasive. The government needs to meet a high standard.

Jumes told The Dallas Morning News that the Pawlak case is a significant for all Americans because it challenges the governments authority to hack into and search computers.

The repercussions of what happens in the Operation Pacifier cases will shape the future of privacy expectations and the limits on government action for years to come, he said.

Others question how authorities could otherwise have caught as many child predators who gather on hidden websites to victimize children.

We had a window of opportunity to get into one of the darkest places on Earth, and not a lot of other options except to not do it, Ron Hosko, a former senior FBI official told USA Today last year. There was no other way we could identify as many players.
It may not be the most romantic way to spend Valentines Day, but Dr. Georges Benjamin had been looking forward to a trip to Atlanta.

On Feb. 14, he said, he was scheduled to speak along with former Vice President Al Gore at the opening session of a conference hosted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The topic: the health effects of climate change.

But in the weeks after Donald Trump won the presidential election, Benjamin received word that the conference would not be happening as scheduled.

It is very unusual, said Benjamin, the executive director of the American Public Health Association. However, considering Trumps skepticism toward the idea that industrial activity is warming the planet  a position held by 97 percent of climate scientists  it wasnt entirely surprising, he said.

Im sure that was on their minds, Benjamin said. I know that was on their minds.

The conference hasnt been officially canceled. The CDC is exploring options to reschedule the meeting while considering budget priorities for fiscal year 2017, according to a statement from the agency.

Some would-be attendees said they arent holding their breath. In their view, its just one in a series of unsettling actions that have come to light in the first days of the Trump administration.

Just hours after the inauguration, the official White House website was scrubbed of any mention of climate change.

Following that, scientists and other employees at several federal agencies were told not to speak directly to the public about their work. That included messages sent via Twitter, Trumps preferred mode of communication.

It looks like we are going on hiatus, announced a tweet sent Wednesday from the account of the United States Arctic Research Commission. To keep up on arctic science, sign up for the Arctic Daily Update at arctic.gov.

(A few hours later, the account was active again, posting a story about climate change in the Arctic and another about Russias sole offshore oil platform in the region.)

At the U.S. Department of Agriculture, employees in the Agricultural Research Service were asked to keep their lips sealed.

Starting immediately and until further notice, ARS will not release any public-facing documents, Sharon Drumm, the chief of staff, wrote in an email. This includes, but is not limited to, news releases, photos, fact sheets, news feeds and social media content.

The message did not go over well. A second email, this time from ARS Administrator Chavonda Jacobs-Young, was sent Tuesday to clarify matters.

The departmental guidance does not, and was never intended, to cover all public-facing documents, she wrote. For example, scientific publications released through peer reviewed professional journals are not covered.

Employees at the Environmental Protection Agency received a similar admonition against communicating directly with the public. In addition, transition team spokesman Doug Ericksen told NPR that scientists will need to have their work vetted before they can share it.

Officials emphasized that this was standard procedure after a change in power.

The EPA fully intends to continue to provide information to the public, the agency said in a statement. A fresh look at public affairs and communications processes is common practice for any new administration, and a short pause in activities allows for this assessment.

Routine or not, the moves are making some scientists uncomfortable.

The CDCs decision not to proceed as scheduled with its February conference on climate change and health was motivated by political concerns, said Dr. Howard Frumkin, a professor of environmental and occupational health sciences at the University of Washington. Frumkin said he was told this by reliable sources within the CDC, where he previously worked as a special assistant to the director for climate change and health.

On top of that, he added, there is no other plausible hypothesis to explain the cancellation.

Frumkin said he had delayed buying a plane ticket to Atlanta out of fear that the conference would be canceled. His instincts turned out to be on target, but that wasnt much consolation.

I think this decision was ill-advised, he said. Climate change poses substantial public health risks.  Scientists need to share this information, to refine and continually improve it, and scientific meetings are a prime venue for this exchange.

Benjamin said he was sympathetic to the predicament of CDC staffers. If they had continued with their plans, only to be told after the inauguration that the conference couldnt happen, those who had booked their travel risked seeing their money go down the drain.

No one should interpret that as a change in the attitudes of people in the CDC, Benjamin said. These people are committed to their work. Theyre still doing their research, theyre still studying climate change.

Support for scientists and the work they do is being channeled into a March for Science, which would follow in the footsteps of the Womens March on Washington. Organizers are looking to set a date in March in Washington, and efforts to organize parallel marches in other cities are springing up online.

As of Wednesday, March for Science organizers said they had racked up 750,000 followers on various social media platforms.

It has never been more important for scientists of all stripes to come together and have their voices heard in government, the organizers tweeted.

Are scientists going to march on Washington? they asked in another tweet. Yes we are!

No one should interpret that as a change in the attitudes of people in the CDC. These people are committed to their work. Theyre still doing their research, theyre still studying climate change. Dr. Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association
A growing number of Democrats in Congress are warning that a government hiring freeze will delay veterans access to health care and hurt their opportunities for employment.

In a letter sent Thursday, 55 Democratic and independent lawmakers  including Wisconsin Sen. Tammy Baldwin and Rep. Tim Walz of Minnesota  called on President Donald Trump to exempt the Veterans Administration and all vets seeking federal jobs from his executive order that put a halt to federal hiring.

Trump, in one of his first official acts as president, signed an executive order Jan. 23 imposing the hiring freeze across federal agencies, including the VA system.

A hiring freeze at the VA will delay veterans access to health care and resolution of their disability claims, which for many of our nations heroes provides a sole source of income to them and their families, the letter states. Our nations veterans should not be made to sacrifice any more than they already have while you review federal hiring.

Baldwin noted the VA has more than 45,000 vacancies and that Trumps nominee to run the department has said he needs to fill every one of those openings in order to make sure that were doing the very best for our veterans.

Its not clear whether the hiring freeze would affect the 22 vacancies currently posted for the Tomah VA. Those openings include nine physicians, one physicians assistant, two nurse practitioners and five other care providers.

A clinic spokesman referred questions to VA headquarters, which did not respond Wednesday.

I just dont have any information, said Tomah VA spokesman Matthew Gowan. Our job doesnt change. Were focused on providing the best care to our veterans.

Acting VA Secretary Robert Snyder issued a statement Wednesday saying the department would exempt any jobs deemed necessary for public safety, though its not clear exactly what positions that would cover.

The signers of the letter are urging Trump to exempt all VA positions, noting there are more than 450,000 pending appeals for disability compensation.

They also call on the president to consider vets applying for federal jobs.

An across-the-board freeze will hurt these veterans  many of whom are transitioning from military service to civilian service, and many of whom are disabled, the letter states.

U.S. Rep. Ron Kind criticized the blanket freeze Wednesday, saying it would hamper efforts to improve care at the Tomah VA Medical Center.

They are in competition for the talent in the entire health care system, Kind said in an interview Wednesday. Just to have a hard hiring freeze right now is going to jeopardize service to the veterans.

In the past two years the Tomah center has cut overnight and weekend hours at its urgent care clinic and temporarily shuttered mental health treatment facilities because of staffing shortages.
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Today is International Holocaust Remembrance Day. If you break that statement down word for word, what it means is that today is a day when people around the world remember the Holocaust. This is not a complicated idea....or is it?

January 27, the date of International Holocaust Remembrance Day, commemorates the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, a concentration camp where approximately 960,000 Jews were killed (of the 1,100,00 total killed at the camp). Jews were, of course, not the only people killed at Auschwitz, but they were murdered in very large numbers there. Surprisingly, Auschwitz was not only the place where Jews were killed in vast numbers during the Holocaust, though it was the largest of its kind.

But what was the Holocaust? According to no less a reliable source than the United States Holocaust Museum (who, presumably, would know a thing or two about the Holocaust!), the Holocaust was "the systematic, bureaucratic, state-sponsored persecution and murder of six million Jews by the Nazi regime and its collaborators."

To wit, on January 27, 2017, the White House issued a statement to commemorate International Holocaust Remembrance Day that neglected to include any mention of Jews or anti-semitism. Yes, you read that right. In total, the statement issued by the White House included 117 words, none of which were "Jew," "anti-semitism," or "Judaism." Trust us, we even ran a keyword search, just in case we were somehow misreading (it's been a long week, after all!). Here is proof:



Zero results!

Issuing a statement commemorating International Holocaust Remembrance Day that does not include any reference to the Jews is an extremely creative choice, especially since it would seem quite difficult to draft an International Holocaust Remembrance Day statement without even accidentally mentioning the Jews. In 1939, a writer named Ernest Vincent Wright published a 50,000 word novel that never once used the letter "e." Gadsby, Wright's novel, is considered to be a paragon of "constrained writing." This is the closest literary equivalent we can think of to the White House's International Holocaust Remembrance Day statement.

It is also possible that not mentioning the Jews in their International Holocaust Remembrance Day statement was not an intentional choice, and the White House merely forgot. This seems unlikely, because even if the White House communications team was really phoning it in and just checking Wikipedia for material, Jews still make it into the very first sentence of the Wikipedia entry for The Holocaust.

However, we would be remiss if we did not mention that the White House plans for commemorating International Holocaust Remembrance Day were not limited to a statement. They also took a number of actions to commemorate the day!

President Donald Trump signed an executive order that not only suspended the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program for three months, but also severely limited the number of refugees who will be able to enter this country. But that was not all! Dayenu!, you might be thinkinga statement and an anti-asylum seeker executive order are more than enough to commemorate any one holiday! You would be wrong.

On January 27, the date of International Holocaust Remembrance Day and the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, President Donald Trumpalso gave an interview where he said that priority will be given to Christian refugees seeking to enter the United States. Yes, you're still reading that right! Priority will be given to Christian refugees seeking to enter the United States of America in the year 2017. Happy International Holocaust Remembrance Day, everyone!
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Funds will help survivors with housing, rebuilding, jobs in hardest hit counties

Rehabilitating storm-damaged homes and buildings

Buying damaged properties in flood plains and relocating residents to safer areas

Temporary housing for people and businesses displaced by the disaster

Helping businesses keep or create jobs

Building or rehabilitating public streets, neighborhood centers, and water, sewer and drainage systems

Down payment assistance, interest rate subsidies and loan guarantees to help disaster victims buy their own homes

Debris removal not covered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

Contact: Ford Porter

Ford Porter govpress@nc.gov

RALEIGH, N.C. - Governor Roy Cooper today announced that North Carolina has received more than $198 million to help families and communities recover from Hurricane Matthew.Nearly $159 million of the grant funds are specifically earmarked for Robeson, Cumberland, Edgecombe and Wayne counties, which were among the state's hardest-hit areas during Hurricane Matthew.Cooper said.The remaining approximately $39 million will go to address disaster recovery in the other 46 disaster-declared counties in North Carolina.The funds are Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. HUD awarded the grants based on North Carolina's unmet housing and infrastructure needs, which considers the cost to repair seriously damaged properties and infrastructure in the most-impacted counties.The recovery funds will help communities hit hard by Hurricane Matthew with housing, economic development, infrastructure and efforts to prevent further damage. Possible applications include:Cooper said.The $198 million federal grant was awarded this week following a request for additional financial assistance. The funds are in addition to the $4.5 million federal grant awarded last week to match trained case managers with Hurricane Matthew survivors to help them navigate the long and often complicated recovery process.As of today, 81,629 households across the 50 disaster-designated counties have registered for FEMA assistance. Survivors are encouraged to monitor the status of their cases and to update their contact information when changes occur. This can be done by visiting fema.gov/disaster/4285 or calling the toll-free FEMA Helpline at 800-621-FEMA.
Contact: McCrory Communications

McCrory Communications communications@ncgop.org

RALEIGH, NC- Yesterday morning, hours before the North Carolina legislature began their long session, newly installed Governor Roy Cooper released a blog entry where he attempted to generate enthusiasm with the public about his agenda. Unfortunately for him, people were able to see through the facade that Cooper has meticulously groomed over the years.- NCGOP Chairman Robin HayesCooper's real agenda consists of an agenda very different from what he is presenting. On the first day of session, he was already preparing obstacles so the North Carolina General Assembly would not able to pass tax cuts for middle class families and small businesses. Republican leaders have passed massive tax cuts during the past four years, and to do away with those cuts would result in sky rocketing tax increases for all North Carolinians. Republican leaders also gave public school teachers the largest pay raise in North Carolina history last year, and they have already committed to raising teacher pay to $55,000 WITHOUT raising taxes.Cooper named Medicaid as a top priority-- specifically expanding Medicaid. Just in case he and his entire team missed the memo, a federal judge issued a restraining order on Cooper's attempt to change the State Medicaid Plan and expand the government healthcare plan under Obamacare ( North State Journal ). Since the judge's ruling, Cooper's has shown his complete incompetence as a public leader by continuing to pursue something that is illegal.Governor Cooper has been under scrutiny for a number of his cabinet appointments. Along with naming lobbyists for various positions, he also chose Michael Regan to run the state Department of Environmental Policy. Some groups have gone so far as to accuse Regan of being "radical," citing that Regan will put the metro areas like Raleigh and Charlotte ahead of the agricultural concerns of farmers and landowners in North Carolina.Most concerning of Governor Cooper's appointments is Ken Eudy as his Senior Advisor. Eudy is widely known for disrespecting our troops. He has gone on the record about how he stays in his seat during the national anthem, saying,As of noon yesterday, the General Assembly is in session. We encourage each member and constituent to voice their opinion and continue to stand up against Governor Cooper and his ridiculous policy propositions.
Saturday, January 28, 2017

Ive previously posted about Delawares vulnerability  namely, to the extent it tries to police shareholder litigation through procedural rather than substantive legal standards, it is vulnerable to losing disputes to other jurisdictions that have rules deemed more favorable by litigants. Plaintiffs and defendants can reach sweetheart merger settlements in jurisdictions that examine the terms less searchingly; defendants can win a dismissal of all claims filed by weak plaintiffs in one jurisdiction and estop stronger plaintiffs who bring suit in Delaware.

So, for example, Delaware encourages derivative plaintiffs to seek books and records under Section 220 before bringing a lawsuit, but that takes time. A plaintiff in another jurisdiction might simply file a lawsuit right away, and if that suit is dismissed, the dismissal can preclude the Delaware plaintiff which only gives the Delaware plaintiff less incentive to seek books and records in the first place.

Well, until now. In Cal. State Teachers Ret. Sys. v. Alvarez, 2017 WL 239364 (Del. 2017), that exact scenario occurred in the long-running action against Wal-Mart for violations of the foreign corrupt practices act in Mexico. While the Delaware plaintiffs sought books and records to bolster a derivative claim, federal plaintiffs in Arkansas ploughed ahead using public information, only to see their suit dismissed for failure to plead demand futility. And Delaware Chancery concluded that the Arkansas ruling was res judicata against the Delaware plaintiffs.

Not so fast, said the Delaware Supreme Court last week. Following VC Laster's analysis in In re EZCORP Inc. Consulting Agreement Deriv. Litig., 130 A.3d 934 (Del. Ch. 2016), the Supreme Court expressed concern that, as a matter of constitutional due process, until demand futility is established, any single group of plaintiffs represents only its own interests, and not the interests of the corporation. Therefore, they bind only themselves  not the corporation  in any litigation, and a dismissal of one claim cannot preclude a subsequent claim.

The Court did not so hold definitively, though; it simply remanded to Chancery for further consideration of the issue.

This is certainly a dramatic solution to the problem of multiforum shareholder litigation. Prior proposals have suggested a more searching inquiry into the adequacy of the first plaintiff; this approach, however, would mean that in derivative actions, no plaintiff is ever precluded by another plaintiffs failure to plead demand futility. Talk about firing off a canon to kill a bug.

It still leaves Delaware in a precarious position, because it rests wholly on federal constitutional law  and theres no telling how federal judges will rule once they get hold of the problem. They certainly dont have the same interests in protecting Delaware law that Delaware has.

https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/business_law/2017/01/that-was-unexpected-delaware-reconsiders-preclusion-in-light-of-due-process.html
Contact: Attila Nemecz

Attila Nemecz Attila.Nemecz@beaufortccc.edu

These classes at Beaufort County Community College can help you prep for college entry exams or get your high school equivalency. To register, call 252-940-6375 or email continuingeducation@beaufortccc.edu.SolidWorks is a 3D mechanical CAD (computer-aided design) program that runs on Microsoft Windows. In this class students will learn basic navigation and skills within the program to help them better understand how to produce 3D rendering of parts and 2D drawings. This class will run on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6:00-9:00 p.m. starting on January 30. It costs $75 and requires the purchase of a textbook before the class starts.This course will help high school students prepare for the American College Testing assessment (ACT). Students will learn test taking strategies from a Princeton Review certified ACT tutor. The course covers English, science, math and reading over four weeks, including a day of review and a practice test.Although this preparation course is aimed at the ACT, the strategies and review have been shown to also improve scores involved with the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT). Students must be at least 16 years of age to attend. This course starts February 4 and runs on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.From education, work, and even daily functions, computers are an ever growing presence within the lives of each individual. In this course students will learn basic computer navigation and basic skills that will allow them to open and create documents, work through different programs, and even safely move through the Internet. The instructor will also work with students to answer questions that they may have about their own computers. This can benefit either the casual computer user or those learning for employment. This class will run on Tuesday mornings from 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. and costs $75. It will begin on February 7.In partnership with the Beaufort/Hyde Partnership for Children, BCCC is excited to offer The Incredible Years teacher class. The course strengthens classroom management, promotes social skills in young children and reduces incidence of classroom aggression by having teachers learn through open discussion, real-life vignettes, role playing and learning to create and implement behavior plans. The program dynamics include: building positive relationships with students and parents, proactive planning, using teacher attention, encouragement and praise, motivating students through incentives, increasing frequency of more appropriate behaviors and teaching positive emotional expression and self-regulation to young children. This course is recommended for teachers of children ages 3-8. The costs of textbook/materials will be paid by the Partnership for early educators in Beaufort and Hyde County. Students outside of these counties must pay textbook/materials cost of $115.90 and can purchase them on the first night of class. This online class will start on January 7. To learn more about professional development technical assistance associated with this course or for a complete cost list of required materials, please contact Justin Rose at (252) 940-6262.BCCC's online option for high school equivalency (GED) courses is now open for enrollment. Students will work at their own pace. Space is limited. The next HSE orientation will be on February 27 and 28 from 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Saturday, January 28, 2017

The Iowa Supreme Court has indefinitely suspended an attorney without possibility of reinstatement for six months.

The attorney represented a client in post-divorce litigation.

On a scheduled hearing day

On the morning of May 9, Vandel called Floyds attorney, Tyler Johnston, and told him the hospital notified her she needed to go in for a blood transfusion that day and asked if he would agree to a continuance. After Johnston agreed to the continuance, Vandel called Judge Gunderson and indicated she was medically incapable of attending the hearing. Vandel followed up with an email expressing her gratitude to Judge Gunderson and Johnston for understanding her need for the transfusion. Due to Vandels representations concerning her need for a blood transfusion, the court continued the hearing to the date of trial on May 20. Despite her representations, Vandel did not receive a blood transfusion on May 9.

It gets worse

During the modification trial, Nichole testified that Vandel told her three days before the trial she was going to withdraw as counsel on the first day of trial if Nichole did not pay her an additional $10,000. When Nichole told Vandel she was unable to pay $10,000, Vandel lowered the amount to $5000. Although Nichole did not make an additional payment, Vandel appeared for trial and did not file a motion to withdraw. However, throughout the trial, Vandel continued to tell Nichole that she was going to withdraw if she did not make an additional payment. Nichole explained to Judge Blane that Vandels threats to withdraw put her under extreme stress, and she felt like she was being harassed . . . badgered, and . . . threatened.

Additionally, on the first day of trial, Vandel presented Nichole with documents to sign in the form of a mortgage with a promissory note, attorney fee lien, assignment of income, judgment by confession, and assignment of wages. Vandel falsely told Judge Blane she did not present any documents for Nichole to sign during the trial. Further, when Vandel threatened to withdraw if she did not receive an additional payment, Vandel did not inform Nichole of the likelihood that the judge would grant or deny such a motion.

On May 28, Judge Blane found Vandel guilty [beyond a reasonable doubt] of nine (9) counts of contempt of court by willfully counseling, thereby aiding and abetting the violation of the Courts Decree of May 19, 2004, pursuant to Iowa Code section 665.2(3).

Judge Blane also filed a complaint with the Board against Vandel. On June 6, Nichole filed a complaint with the Board against Vandel. In response to Nicholes complaint, Vandel wrote a letter to the Board on July 2, continuing to claim she needed medical treatment on May 9. In Vandels appellate brief filed on April 8, 2014, she again asserted that she was unavailable for the hearing on May 9, 2013, because she had to go in for a blood transfusion. However, in a letter to the Boards investigator on April 11, 2014, Vandel stated there were no medical records showing she had a blood transfusion on May 9, 2013.

The bar investigation revealed trust account violations with the fee.

The attorney defaulted on the charges but appeared at the hearing

At the hearing, Vandel asked the commission to take into consideration the fact that she does not intend to practice law in the future and her history of providing pro bono legal services throughout her career. Following the hearing, the commission recommended we suspend Vandels license to practice law with no possibility of reinstatement for a period of one year.

The court pointed to prior discipline and other aggravating factors but also found mitigation

We also take into consideration the mitigating factors present in this case. First, we acknowledge that Vandel was hospitalized for a severe illness near the time she requested a continuance for the hearing on May 9. Although Vandel did not have a blood transfusion on May 9, she was admitted to the hospital on May 7 for severe illness and pain. She left the hospital on the morning of May 8, despite being counseled against leaving because of the severity of her illness. While personal illness will not excuse an attorneys misconduct, such illnesses may influence our approach to discipline. Netti, 797 N.W.2d at 606.

Second, we note Vandel has provided substantial pro bono legal work throughout her career and routinely performs work for low-income clients. See Iowa Supreme Ct. Atty Disciplinary Bd. v. McGinness, 844 N.W.2d 456, 467 (Iowa 2014) (stating community service is a mitigating factor)...

We suspend Vandels license to practice law in Iowa with no possibility of reinstatement for six months from the date of this opinion. This suspension applies to all facets of the practice of law.

(Mike Frisch)

https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/legal_profession/2017/01/the-iowa-supreme-court-has-indefinitely-suspended-an-attorney-without-possibility-of-reinstatement-for-six-months-the-attor.html
Saturday, January 28, 2017

The Vermont Supreme Court recently admonished an attorney

Upon review of the hearing panel decision in this matter, the Court concludes as follows: The decision presents a well-reasoned discussion and resolution of a problem common in legal practice, particularly for small firms and solo practitioners. Accordingly, the Court orders review of the decision on its own motion, adopts the hearing panel decision in its entirety as a final order of this Court, waives briefing and oral argument, and orders that the decision be published in the Vermont Reports.

The situation

The parties stipulated that Respondent violated Rules 1.15A, 1.15A(a) and 1.15A(a)(2) of the Vermont Rules of Professional Conduct by failing to safeguard client funds. Respondent admits that he did not timely reconcile his IOLTA account and did not keep accurate records of the client funds he held in trust. Disciplinary Counsel also charged Respondent with violating Rules 1.15(a)(1) and 1.15(d) of the Rules of Professional Conduct, alleging Respondent commingled Respondents funds with client funds in his client IOLTA account. Respondent denied the charge that he violated Rules 1.15(a)(1) and 1.15(d). The parties did not stipulate to the sanction to be imposed. Disciplinary Counsel asked the Hearing Panel to issue a public reprimand for all violations. Respondent argued that private admonition was the appropriate sanction in this case. The parties jointly requested a hearing on the merits of the contested charges and on the issue of sanctions.

The attorney was admitted in 1992 and has a two-person practice

In June 2012, Disciplinary Counsel selected Respondent's IOLTA account for a compliance examination by the Professional Responsibilitys Program. Compliance examinations are part of the Programs trust account oversight program.

Between 2003 and 2007, Respondent's Firm retained an independent contractor to serve as the Firms bookkeeper. The bookkeeper was responsible for maintaining the Firm's IOLTA account as part of the bookkeepers responsibilities. In 2007, Respondents Firm assigned the bookkeeping duties to one of its employees, paying the employee a monthly stipend for the work. The employee was responsible for maintaining the Firms IOLTA account, among other tasks.

At all times relevant to this disciplinary matter, Respondents Firm has used Quicken commercial bookkeeping software for financial record keeping. Respondents Firm used Quicken to record its deposits into, and withdrawals from, the Firms IOLTA account.

Shortly after the Firm was notified that Disciplinary Counsel would be conducting a compliance examination of the Firms trust accounts, the Firms bookkeeper suddenly quit the Firm. Respondent reviewed the Firms IOLTA account records and discovered the IOLTA account had not been reconciled for six months. The employees sudden departure caused Respondent significant concern, so Respondent hired an accountant to audit the Firms IOLTA account from 2007 to the present to determine if there were any improper transactions. Respondents independent audit commenced approximately three months before Disciplinary Counsel performed her compliance exam on September 19, 2012. Respondent also retained legal counsel to assist Respondent with his investigation. Part of counsels responsibilities included assisting Respondent with implementing accounting procedures that would bring, and keep, the Firms accounting practices in compliance with the Rules of Professional Conduct.

Disciplinary Counsel retained a CPA to conduct the audit, which led to a bar investigation.

Once the CPA examination was complete, Respondent took the initiative to retain a CPA, at Respondents sole expense, to assist Respondent in transforming his trust accounting practices so that Respondent was in compliance with the Rules of Professional Conduct. Respondent implemented his CPAs recommendations.

Respondent acknowledged that his Firm did not reconcile its IOLTA account for approximately 9 months. Respondent admitted that, prior to the compliance examination, Respondent was not aware that the Rules of Professional Conduct required Respondent to maintain a record of each clients IOLTA funds, including all deposits, disbursements, and running balances. Respondent rectified the error, taking advantage of all of the functions his Quicken software provides. Respondent is now able to identify the source of all receipts and disbursements recorded in the Firms IOLTA account, and has categorized all transactions by client.

As to the approximately $75,000 in stale outstanding checks, Respondent determined that these checks were related to real estate transactions Respondent handled. (During a real estate purchase, the buyers lawyer issues IOLTA checks to pay closing costs, including an IOLTA check to a title insurance company to pay the title insurance premium and another IOLTA check payable to the lawyer for the lawyers title insurance commission.) Respondent investigated these uncashed checks and determined that $74,714.00 was payable to the Firm for title insurance commissions. These checks were deposited or cashed by Respondents Firm between February 1, 2012 and September 19, 2012, the latter being the date of the compliance examination.

With respect to running balance of approximately $32,000.00, Respondents was able to resolve the issue. Respondents accountant found a few instances of transposed numbers and a double deposit entry that erroneously inflated the balance of Respondents IOLTA account. After correcting the IOLTA account entries, the balance accurately represented client retainers held for the payment of attorney fees once those fees are earned.

The parties disputed whether the attorney engaged in commingling and Disciplinary Counsel sought to amend the allegations

Not having the evidence necessary to prove commingling, Disciplinary Counsel asked to amend the charge to include violation of Rule 1.3, failure to exercise due diligence. Disciplinary Counsel argued that, taking Respondent at his word, Respondent took years, sometimes as many as 5 and 9 years, for Respondent to complete his post-closing duties. Disciplinary Counsel argued that Respondent was not diligent in completing his real estate duties.

Respondent argued that Respondent was completely unprepared to meet the new charge. As of the date of hearing, Respondent had not reviewed his real estate files and was unprepared to explain why, in any particular case, it took Respondent so long to complete his post-closing tasks so he could collect his fee and/or title insurance commission from the IOLTA account. Respondent argued that amending the charge without granting Respondent an opportunity to prepare and meet the charge was prejudicial.

The motion to add the diligence charge was properly denied.

Sanction for the violations

Respondents mental state was one of negligence. Respondent acted negligently when he failed to set up his Quicken accounting system in accordance with the Rules of Professional Conduct. For example, Respondent did not use Quicken to track IOLTA transactions by client or matter. Respondent was negligent when he failed to perform timely reconciliations of the IOLTA account. Respondent was also negligent when he failed to correct entry errors that led to an incorrect running balance of approximately $32,000. The Firm assigned the task of performing the bookkeeping tasks to an independent contractor, and then an employee. Respondent, however, was responsible for ensuring the trust account was administered according to the Rules of Professional Responsibility, and he failed to do so.

(Mike Frisch)

https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/legal_profession/2017/01/the-vermont-supreme-court-recently-admonished-an-attorney.html
Tammi McCance Littrel, a history professor at Chadron State College, will give a presentation about Grace McCance Snyders life and the life of homesteading women at 7 p.m. on Monday at the Wilson Public Library in Cozad.

Littrel has additional family photos and stories to share with the audience about her family and was a principal contributor to the Of Cows and Quilts exhibit currently on display at the library.

The Of Cows and Quilts display is courtesy of the Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center in Chadron and is available during normal business hours. School tours may also be scheduled by calling 308-784-2019.

The display would be especially good for fourth-graders studyingNebraska history., said Laurie Yocom, the director of Wilson Public Library.

Littrells visit is part of the celebration of One Book, One Cozad 2017.

Last week, the Wilson Public Library was notified that One Book One Cozad 2017 was approved as an Official Program of the Nebraska Sesquicentennial.

Executive Director of theNebraska 150 Celebration, Regan Anson, said, We are thrilled to partner with the Wilson Public Library as we commemorate this historic occasion. This program fits wonderfully with our mission and we are excited to add it to our celebration.

One Book, One Cozads book selection for 2017 is Pioneer Girl: A True Story of Growing Up on the Prairie by Andrea Warren. The subject for the book is Grace McCance Snyder, who moved outside of Cozad, when she was three. Using Snyders life, which was immortalized in the memoir No Time on My Hands, Warren has crafted an educational and entertaining book about growing up a homesteader. Warren is a native of Nebraska.
Janice F. Miller

Born: January 24, 1951, Died: January 23, 2017



Mrs. Janice Lynn Fisher Miller, age 65, a resident of Denver, NC, died Monday January 23, 2017 at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte.



A graveside service will be held 12:00 PM Saturday January 28, 2017 at Oakdale Cemetery. The family will greet friends following the graveside service.



Survivors include two sons, Leslie Earl Miller, III, of Denver, NC, Brandon James Miller of Myrtle Beach, SC; one grandchild, Christopher Miller; two brothers, Robert Fisher and wife Brenda of Concord, William Fisher and wife Susie of Mt. Holly and one sister, Vicki Jenkins and husband John of Fuquay Varina.



She was preceded in death by her husband Leslie Earl Miller, Jr. on July 23, 2008 a brother, Edward Fisher, and a sister Ruby Fisher.



Paul Funeral Home & Crematory of Washington is honored to serve the Miller family.


St. Pete Pride Committee officials and Mayor Rick Kriseman may be nearing a compromise on where to hold this years Pride Parade and festival.

Committee announced parade move to downtown earlier this month

Mayor Kriseman threatened to withhold city funds for the parade if move made

Tentative compromise would move parade, but keep festival in Grand Central

The committee announced earlier this month that it planned to move the annual event downtown, away from its current home in the Grand Central Business District, affectionately known as the citys "gay enclave."



Mayor Kriseman, in turn, threatened to withhold the $45,000 dollars the city gives to the event every year.



After a meeting earlier this this week between committee members and the mayor, officials said there was a tentative agreement to hold the parade downtown, but have the festival remain in Grand Central.



We know the parade will continue downtown in St. Petersburg," said Pride Committee Executive Director Eric Skains. "How we can incorporate other events and still make those part of the Grand Central -- that's the best for everyone -- that's what we're still working on. And the money is still up in the air.



Officials from Mayor Krisemans office said theyre optimistic.



We're gonna get there, and the mayor's just very optimistic about that said Kriseman spokesman Ben Kirby. That we're gonna find a solution here that not only meets the needs of pride board, but everybody in the Pride Community, not to mention the folks in the Grand Central District and those businesses as well.



But members of the Grand Central Business Association feel like theyre being left out of the negotiations.



Tawnee Walling, executive director of the group, said they werent made aware of any meeting and actually have an alternative idea.



I think actually the exact opposite would be amazing," said Walling. "Having the parade here and then being able to have a festival downtown. Plus you'd be able to take advantage of the sea breeze.



Whether the business association is involved in these talks or not, the Pride Committee and the city hope to have the issue resolved by the end of next week.


On New Years Day this year, the Scripture that was read and preached in many churches was Matthew 2:13-23. It tells of Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus fleeing for their lives into Egypt, and of the subsequent massacre of the young children in Bethlehem by King Herod.

Those of us who heard this Gospel lesson that Sunday got a jarring dose of reality right in the midst of our lingering Christmas celebrations and New Years revelry. The same human cruelty and abuse of power that we have seen inflicted on the people of Aleppo, Syria, for many months sent Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus into exile long ago.

The horror of a maniacal ruler murdering his own people is as much a part of the Christmas story as it is a part of what is happening to millions of people in places like Syria. In his Gospel, Matthew paints stark, undetailed images of the trauma suffered by the holy family and the people of Bethlehem at the hands of Herod.

But we can grasp the gravity of what the holy family and the residents of Bethlehem experienced in this horror, when we see the graphic images of terrified people, mutilated and dead people that are being broadcast out of Syria in the aftermath of bombing by Russia and the Syrian regime. Like many of those people, Mary, Joseph and Jesus were forced to flee to a foreign land and become refugees.

Jesus is known to us by many titles and descriptors  Messiah, Lord, Son of God, Son of Man, Lamb of God, Savior, teacher, the Christ, Redeemer, Bread of Life, Good Shepherd, healer  but refugee is not usually one of them. Yet it should be one we remember often.

Now  when there are more than 21.3 million refugees throughout the world looking for safe places to settle, and when many nations, including our own, are becoming hostile toward refugees and making it very difficult for them to settle within their borders  it is especially important to remember that Jesus himself was a refugee, dependent upon the hospitality and caring of kind and receptive people for his survival. Through Jesus, God knows firsthand the fear, suffering and sorrow of refugees.

It seems that God has always had a soft spot for strangers, foreigners and refugees. In Deuteronomy 10, when Moses gives Gods law to the people of Israel, he says that God loves the strangers, providing them food and clothing. And for that reason, Moses tells them, You shall also love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt.

In Jesus illustration about the separation of people in the final judgment in Matthew 25, the king making the separation says: Come, you that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me.

There is something holy about the care of strangers, of foreigners and refugees. In a time when so much distrust, rejection and even hatred of refugees is being verbalized, here is the Word of God repeatedly calling us to love and care for them.

Remembering that Mary, Joseph and Jesus, too, had to flee their homeland and become refugees in Egypt, and seeing Jesus the Christ in each stranger, each refugee we encounter, are two tools that help us navigate through the surrounding pressure toward fear and rejection of them and enable us to live out that sacred calling to love them, instead.
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Free spaghetti lunch following service

BUHL  The Buhl Calvary Assembly of God invites the community to its first outreach service of 2017 at 10 a.m. Sunday and morning service at 11 a.m. There will be time for special prayer and we will celebrate one of our ladies in the church being baptized in water. A free spaghetti lunch will follow the service. Calvary Assembly is at 110 Fruitland Ave. Information: 208-934-7250.

Unitarians to discuss common ground

TWIN FALLS  Our message this Sunday is Common Ground. We will explore how the Unitarian-Universalism faith and other faiths are different, yet similar in both beliefs and message. Most world religions including Unitarian-Universalism may have more in common with each other than different. After all, all faiths preach love, forgiveness and hope. Join the Magic Valley Unitarian Universalist Fellowship at 10:30 a.m. Sunday at the Vendor Blender and Event Center, 588 Addison Avenue West in Twin Falls. Information: 208-734-9161.

Ascension welcomes guest celebrant

TWIN FALLS  Ascension Episcopal Church welcomes the Rev. William Thompson-Uberuaga as guest celebrant and preacher for worship services of Holy Communion at 8 and 10 a.m. Sunday. Thompson-Uberuaga is a noted scholar, theologian and emeritus professor of theology at Duquesne University. He is currently priest associate at St. Michaels Cathedral in Boise.

Ascension Cafe meets from 9:10 to 9:50 a.m. with Thompson-Uberuaga leading a discussion on the Beatitudes or Blessings of the Sermon on the Mount, the gospel reading for Sunday considered the Charter or Magna Carta of Jesus Reign of God. Child care is available from 9:30 to 11:15 a.m. A fellowship coffee hour will be held after the 10 a.m. service.

Curtis Eaton, Jeff Gooding, Miles Humphrey and Jan McBride were elected to the vestry at Ascension at the annual meeting last week. They will join Carolyn Coiner, Helen Cutler, Kami Grandeen, Susan Kelley-Harbke, Debi Kraal and Sara Toledo to lead Ascension in the coming year.

Ascension Episcopal Church is handicapped accessible and at 371 Eastland Drive N. in Twin Falls. For more information, go to episcopaltwinfalls.org or call 208-733-1248.

Wendell Methodists host spaghetti dinner

WENDELL  The Wendell United Methodist Church will hold a dinner from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 5 at 175 E. Main St. Spaghetti, garlic bread, salads and desserts will be served. Free-will offerings will be accepted. Come join your family, friends and neighbors for dinner. For more information, call Ken and Mary Lou Ruby at 208-536-6583 or Margaret Presnell at 208-536-5751.
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RUPERT  Police were still waiting Friday for identification on human remains that were found at a home destroyed by fire Wednesday.

The home, at First and C streets, belongs to Dale Mounce, who is wanted by police.

Rupert Detective Sam Kuoha declined Friday to release any further details on the incident.

Kuoha said the body was found in the rubble Wednesday night after the fire.

Police said earlier in the week that police and firefighters were at the house when the fire started.

Neighbors reported hearing loud booms after the fire broke out and police evacuated residents within a two-block radius.

Mounce failed to attend a court hearing on Wednesday on charges of aggravated battery and a judge had issued a bench warrant.

He was charged in November after police said he hit three people with a pistol during a fight at the same home.

If anyone has any information on Mounce they should call the Rupert Police Department at 208-434-2330.
TWIN FALLS  A combat veteran whose squad's story was told in the book and movie Blackhawk Down is coming to Twin Falls.

Keni Thomas will give a free presentation  Train as You Fight, Fight as You Train  at 6 p.m. Feb. 10 at the College of Southern Idaho's Fine Arts Auditorium.

The event is sponsored by Kapstone Container Corp. in Twin Falls, in partnership with the CSI Workforce Training Center and Southern Idaho Manufacturing Safety and Health Association.

Thomas was part of an elite special operations squad called Task Force Ranger, tasked with capturing criminal warlord Mohammad Farrah Aidid.

Thomas and his soldiers work in an 18-hour firefight was told in Blackhawk Down. In total, 19 Americans died and 78 were wounded in the battle.

During the presentation, hell talk about how they worked to bring each other home, and the impact of their leadership and training.

Thomas is now a country music artist and songwriter in Nashville, touring often to perform for troops in Iraq and Afghanistan.
June Banner

BURLEY  June Banner of Burley, funeral at 1 p.m. Saturday, January 28, at the Rasmussen Funeral Home, 1350 E. 16th St., in Burley, where family and friends may call one hour prior to the service.

LaDonna Moncur

BURLEY  LaDonna Moncur of Burley, funeral at 11 a.m. Saturday, January 28 at the Pella LDS Church, 160 W 400 S, Burley. A visitation will be held from 6 until 8 p.m. Friday, January 27 at the Rasmussen Funeral Home, 1350 E 16th St and from 10 until 10:45 a.m. prior to the service at the church.

Katrina Kat Budden

TWIN FALLS  Katrina Kat Budden of Twin Falls, Celebration of Life Memorial Service at 6 p.m. Saturday, January 28, 2017 at Parkes Magic Valley Funeral Home, 2551 Kimberly Rd. in Twin Falls.

LaRue Mitchell

TWIN FALLS  LaRue Mitchell of Twin Falls, celebration of life on Saturday January 28, 2017 at 2 p.m. at First Church of the Nazarene, 1231 Washington Street, Twin Falls. Arrangements are under the direction of Rosenau Funeral Home.

Denise Barnett

TWIN FALLS  Denise Barnett of Twin Falls, funeral service at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, January 28, at the Desert Hills Community Church of the Nazarene in Gooding. Arrangements are under the direction of Demaray Funeral ServiceGooding.

Janice E. Triebwasser

KIMBERLY  Janice E. Triebwasser of Kimberly, celebration of life at 5 p.m. Sunday, January 29, 2017 at the Filer Nazarene Church in Filer. Arrangements are under the direction of White Mortuary, Chapel by the Park, Twin Falls.

Leota Morris

TWIN FALLS  Leota Morris of Twin Falls, funeral services at 10:30 a.m., Monday, January 30, at Rosenau Funeral Home. Viewing for Leota will be on Sunday the 29th from 4-6PM at the funeral home.

Bessie Barkes

BURLEY  Bessie Barkes of Burley, funeral at 11 a.m. Monday, January 30, at the Pella LDS Church, 160 W. 400 S. of Burley. A visitation will be held from 5 until 7 p.m. Sunday, January 29, at the Rasmussen Funeral Home, 1350 E. 16th St., in Burley, and from 10 until 10:45 a.m. preceding the service at the church.

Theodore Dean

HAZELTON  Ted Dean of Hazelton, memorial at 2 p.m. Monday, January 30, at Parkes Magic Valley Funeral Home, Twin Falls.

Phillip West

TWIN FALLS  Phillip West of Twin Falls, funeral at 2 p.m. Monday, January 30, at the Rasmussen Funeral Home, 1350 E 16th St, Burley. A visitation will be held from 1 until 1:45 p.m. preceding the service.

Thelma Mae Stone

EDEN  Thelma Mae Stone of Eden, funeral at 2 pm Tuesday, January 31, 2017 at White Mortuary, Chapel by the Park, 136 4th Ave E. Twin Falls; visitation 1 hr. prior to the service from 1 to 1:45 pm.

Michael Tremblay

TWIN FALLS  Michael Tremblay of Twin Falls, memorial service at 1 p.m. Friday, February 3, at the First Church of the Nazarene. Arrangements are under the direction of Rosenau Funeral Home.

Sherry A. Gotchy

TWIN FALLS  Sherry A. Gotchy of Twin Falls, celebration of life at 2 p.m. Friday, February 3, 2017 at Serenity Funeral Chapel Life Celebration Center & Cremation Services of Idaho, 502 2nd Ave. North, Twin Falls. Parking is available at Magic Valley High School.
The Cinnabar herd of bighorn sheep that lives just north of Yellowstone National Park has been slow to recover from an outbreak of pneumonia in 2014.

During the spring survey the numbers werent bad, said Karen Loveless, a Fish, Wildlife and Parks biologist in Livingston. But the lamb recruitment is not great. And were seeing that again this year. Thats discouraging.

The outbreak of disease initially resulted in the deaths of 34 sheep out of a herd of 89, many of them rams. Because of the deaths FWP closed Hunting District 305 to bighorn sheep hunting.

Id sure like to open it, Loveless said. But Ill wait and see what we get this spring. If ram numbers remain low  I dont want to offer a tag for hunters if its unlikely to be filled.

So far the disease outbreak seems to be isolated to the Cinnabar herd, which lives on the west side of the Yellowstone River in the Gardiner Basin. Bighorns on the east side of the river, the Corwin Springs herd, seem to be doing fine. Likewise, bighorn sheep numbers in nearby Yellowstone National Park, just south of Gardiner, are OK.

Loveless said some of the sheep from the uninfected herds may move into the Cinnabar habitat to help repopulate the herd.

We know rams certainly move around during the rut, she said.

The continued scarcity of lambs in the Cinnabar herd is not unusual. Bighorn sheep in other areas have suffered from an inability to rebuild their numbers after a pneumonia outbreak. The bacteria seems to persist in some ewes and may infect their milk, killing weak newborns.

Although there are plenty of predators in the area, including mountain lions, Loveless said their numbers havent increased so they arent likely to be a factor in the lack of lambs.

Downriver farther, the Point of Rocks bighorn herd had a pneumonia outbreak, yet still had good lamb recruitment, but then got sick again. The sheep dont have immunity to a bacteria carried by domestic sheep. Its believed that when bighorn rams wander and come in contact with domestic sheep they may carry the pneumonia back to infect their herds.

A bighorn sheep herd in the Tendoy Mountains of southwestern Montana suffered continued outbreaks of pneumonia. Despite several attempts to rebuild the herd with bighorns captured and transplanted to the Tendoys, the group never rebounded. So in 2015 FWP enlisted hunters to help remove all of the animals. Most were killed, leaving FWP to harvest the few remaining that hunters were unsuccessful in taking.

FWP plans to repopulate the Tendoy-area herd with bighorns that are free of disease in hopes that the animals will thrive once again.

Loveless is optimistic that the outbreak in the Gardiner Basin wont spread to surrounding herds, but more information will be available after FWP flies the region in March to count wildlife.

The Gardiner Basin is steeped in bighorn sheep history. Evidence of ancient sheep traps built by early Americans has been found in the rocky cliffs near Gardiner along the Yellowstone River. Surrounding peaks have names like Big Horn, Ramshorn and two versions of Sheep Mountain.

Unlike some other places in Montana, the Gardiner Basin sheep are native herds.
As British Prime Minister Theresa May becomes the first foreign leader to visit President Donald Trump, it is a good time to consider that Margaret Thatcher, much more than Ronald Reagan, is the real model for the Trump presidency.

Trumps inaugural address last Friday had the directness and confrontational tone of a Thatcher speech. The president was clear that he stood for dramatic, bold change and that he regarded his election as a victory of the American people.

Trumps speech was not designed to reconcile with the Washington power structure. In fact, it was a declaration of loyalty to the American people against that very power structure.

Furthermore, the address represented a direct threat to the value system of the left. In this head-on challenge to power and ideology, Trump resembles Thatcher far more than Reagan.

Reagan was focused on breaking the power of the Soviet Union, not breaking the power of political correctness and the elite media that has increasingly dominated the United States. They were frightened of Reagan, but they werent enraged by him.

Trump is a direct, mortal threat to both the power structure and the ideology of the left. The left knows it and is responding just as the British left wing responded to Thatcher.

The young liberal fascists breaking windows and intimidating Trump supporters on Inauguration Day displayed the kind of hostility that Thatcher evoked on the left.

The congressional Democrats decision to adopt pure negativity and opposition tactics is much more like the Labour Partys reaction to Thatcher than then-House Speaker Tip ONeills much more nuanced approach to Reagan. One-third of the House Democrats voted for the Reagan economic program in the summer of 1981. It is hard to imagine that happening in the House today.

The left in Britain became so unhinged with its bitter hostility that it kept drifting further and further out of the mainstream. The term loony left became a common description of the Labour Party in the 1987 election.

Today, the hysteria of the American left as the Elizabeth Warren-George Soros wing talks only to its own partisans is becoming increasingly bizarre. Think about the optics of last weekends anti-Trump marchers, with their vulgarity and dreams of blowing up the White House. This sort of rhetoric repels most Americans.

In Thatchers analysis, if socialism prevailed and the coal miners union could dictate its own terms, then Britain as a country would be transformed into a very different place. Thus, she saw her fight as Churchillian in the depth and intensity of the fight and the scale of the stakes.

Trumps decision to put a bust of Winston Churchill back in the Oval Office is a clear signal of that same resolve.

Like Thatcher, Trump is similarly focused on destroying the moral legitimacy of the left and breaking the power of the lobbyist and bureaucratic establishment in Washington. His actions thus far in office, including steps to restore the rule of law in immigration and move forward with vital energy infrastructure projects, have been consistent with these goals.

It is no accident that May will be the first foreign leader to meet with Trump. The president instinctively wants a much closer alliance with Britain. Where President Barack Obama warned that voting for Brexit would put Britain at the back of the line, Trump believes the vote for Brexit puts Britain at the front of the line. Britain may have had more riding on the outcome of the U.S. election than any other foreign country.

Those who fear Trumps protectionism might note that one of his first goals is to begin working on a bilateral agreement with Britain (which may become a trilateral agreement if the Canadians are invited in). This is a much more sophisticated president than his critics believe.

This weeks visit may revitalize the special relationship that the United States and Britain have had ever since 1941. Prime Minister Thatcher would have approved.
Cheer

As we reported Friday, more Twin Falls students are entering the armed services. Pinning down exact numbers is tough  enlistments are tracked by ZIP codes, not by high schools  but data show a steady increase over the past three years.

Fifty-seven area students enrolled in the Army, Navy, Air Force or Marines in 2016, up from 43 in 2014.

Take that as proof against the argument young people are losing their patriotism.

Despite the stereotypes, the military isnt the option of last resort for students who cant get into college or need to enter the services to get out of trouble. In fact, a Twin Falls High School valedictorian plans to go enter the Navy, and the service is granting her a scholarship to also pay for her college education.

We believe its time the state began crediting students who enter the armed forces as going on. Currently, when the state calculates the numbers of students who pursue education after high school, it isnt counting the armed services.

But many of those students will receive training in the military on par with a college or technical school education. They deserve credit, too.

Jeer

Another legislative session, another round of paranoia in the Statehouse when it comes to the federal government. Yes, states have rights. Yes, there are certain tasks the state can probably do better than the feds.

But any sixth-grade civics student knows that federal law trumps state laws. We fought the Civil War over that principle. The Supreme Court has upheld it repeatedly, such as the most recent example when in 1958 the court ruled against Southern states trying to block the Brown v. Board of Education ruling to end school segregation.

Still, the Idaho Legislature doesnt get it. This week, a House committee voted to print a bill declaring the Legislature as the final arbiter over whether something is constitutional. The bill would also direct state agencies to not enforce any federal laws, regulations or court rulings the Legislature doesnt deem fit.

Let us make this clear for our representatives in Boise, or for anyone who flunked grade school civics: The state does not have that power. The Supreme Court of the United States determines what is and isnt constitutional. And wasting time and energy (and perhaps money on lawsuits) is not in the best interests of Idahoans.

Its worth noting that Rep. Steve Hartgen of Twin Falls did some windmill charging of his own this week over a similar states rights issue. He voted against a routine procedural bill in his taxation committee to sync state and IRS tax codes over his opposition to (get ready for this) gay marriage. He called it a protest vote.

Whatever your personal beliefs about the issue, the Supreme Court has ruled, and its time for Idaho to move on.

Of course the irony is  and we point this out often  that the Legislature doesnt respect the power of the federal government but is more than happy continuing to disrespect cities and counties in the state. Idaho state lawmakers believe they can govern Idaho better than the feds, but continue to believe they can govern cities from Boise better than city leaders can in Twin Falls.

It is high time state lawmakers realize there are limits to their power.

Cheer

The Twin Falls Police Department is in crisis through no fault of its own. Since 2011, the departments turnover rate is a staggering 65 percent.

Whats going on?

The department is hiring young officers and paying for their training only to have them poached by agencies in the Treasure Valley. The TFPD simply isnt offering salaries that are competitive with other Idaho markets, and in the long run, thats costing the city.

On Monday, City Manager Travis Rothweiler will ask the City Council for what amounts to a hefty pay increase for street cops and firefighters.

Rothweilers plan to pay for the increases is a tad complicated, but essentially hes counting on the city to keep growing. As it grows, the tax base expands, and the city takes in more money. He wants to use a big chunk of that to invest in public safety.

He believes, and we do, too, that the investment will result in a better police force. A better force leads to lower crime. And lower crime leads to better economic development.

We hope the Council sees the same logic and approves the investment in Twin Falls police.
The presidential election was fraught with heightened emotions, personal attacks and vitriol that reached new lows. Individuals and groups on both sides of the aisle fought tooth-and-nail for their candidate, at times losing sight of what actually matters. At the end of the day, we all want to ensure a safe and positive future for Americans. It is time to move forward as one together, which is why it is important for Sen. Jon Tester, and all those in the U.S. Senate, to work together to confirm Betsy Devos as the next secretary of education.

Part of ensuring that positive future includes expanding options in education so that students are not relegated to failing schools. Betsy DeVos is a 30-year school reformer who is a qualified and experienced advocate for children, especially at-risk kids who fall through the cracks. DeVos has worked tirelessly to expand school choice and to give parents more control over education decisions. Though some have criticized her support for school choice, DeVos believes in providing the opportunity for a path to success for all students in all communities. Quality education should not be a privilege that just those who can afford it should be able to access.

DeVos has advocated for both improving public schools and for providing another option to parents and students who feel trapped in the current system. Public schools are important and should be supported, but when a school fails to provide a quality education to a child, there should be another option. Its encouraging to see Montanans embrace this open-minded approach, rather than resisting change for the sake of resistance.

DeVos will bring a fresh perspective to the federal Education Department. Through her work to expand school choice, virtual schools, school vouchers, tuition tax credits, and education savings accounts, thousands of students have already been able to access a quality education that would otherwise have been lost.

Our kids need to be able to compete on a national level now, and if they cannot receive a quality education, then we are setting them up to fail in the long run. DeVos will fight for education equality and better academic outcomes for all communities. We have seen public schools fail, and we have seen them succeed. Montana needs the support of its leaders, like Sen. Jon Tester, to confirm DeVos as education secretary so she can stand for our students.
As members of the 2017 Montana Legislature continue progress on big ticket items, there are important issues that may not get a lot of media attention. One such piece of legislation is the Montana Anesthesiology Services Healthcare Team Act of 2017, HB 235, a bill that will allow certified anesthesiologist assistants to practice in Montanas operating rooms under the guidance of a board-certified anesthesiologist.

Certified anesthesiologist assistants are highly skilled and trained professionals who, under the direction of a Montana licensed anesthesiologist, may:

Elicit a pre-anesthesia health history and perform a physical examination;

Establish patient monitoring devices and intravenous access;

Assist in the application and interpretation of advanced monitoring techniques such as pulmonary artery catheterization or echocardiography;

Assist in the induction, maintenance and emergence of a patient's anesthetic;

Secure the patient's airway through mask, endotracheal tube or laryngeal mask airway;

Interpret and record the patient's physiological and pharmacological status; and,

Provide continuity of care into and during the post-operative period.

This legislation, introduced by Rep. Don Jones, of Billings, and co-sponsored by Sen. Al Olszewski, of Kalispell, promises to bring Montana into alignment with other states that have raised the standard of quality and care by allowing the services of anesthesiologist assistants. Empowering Montanas anesthesiologists to work as a team with certified anesthesiologist assistants will address an emerging gap in care and furthers an important team approach that is proven to be more effective and safe.

The Montana Society of Anesthesiologists calls upon the Legislature to pass HB235. This bill deserves bipartisan support. It is common-sense legislation, supported by the Montana Society of Anesthesiologists, many other health care providers and citizens others who are dedicated to the long-term high quality, safe and accessible practices of anesthesiology in the State of Montana.

While this bill is among several that may not earn a high profile, HB235 is important enough for our citizens to contact our legislators and encourage them to support the bill that allows for more advanced, modern and team oriented approach to the practices of anesthesiology in the state of Montana. Please do so.
Malacanang on Saturday urged Filipinos to support beauty queen Maxine Medina, who will represent the country in the 65th Miss Universe pageants coronation show on Monday at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City starting at 8 a.m.

Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said Medina deserves all morale boosts Filipinos can give for her hard work in participating in the prestigious beauty tilt, which the Philippines is hosting for the first time since 1994.

The winner of the pageant will inherit the crown from the reigning Miss Universe, Pia Wurtzbach, who steps down after being the Philippines first titlist in the beauty pageant in 43 years.

Medina hopes to be the fourth Filipina to win the event after Wurtzbach, Margie Moran in 1973 and Gloria Diaz in 1969.

We convey our most heartfelt felicitations for all the Miss Universe candidates, and especially cheer and throw our support for the Ms. Philippines candidate, Maxine Medina, who deserves all the morale boosts she can get for working very hard and giving her best in a competition that promotes goodwill and friendship among nations, Abella said.

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Medina, 26, was in top form as she attempts a back-to-back victory for the country in the event, twirling and strutting down the stage at the Mall of Asia Arena during the preliminary competitions last Thursday in an emerald long gown and a green-white striped swimsuit.

As the countrys representative, Maxine is able to show the beauty, warmth, hope and dignity of the Filipino. We are truly proud of her, Dutertes spokesperson said.

Maxine Medina performs in the swimsuit, national costume and long gown competitions in the 65th Miss Universe beauty pageant. Sonny Espiritu

Abella said the government is extending its heartfelt felicitations to Medina and for the rest of the 86 candidates, who came from their respective countries to Manila for the beauty tilt.

We are also grateful for this experience of hosting the pageant, assured and confident that the 2016 Miss Universe experience has been joyful and memorable for all the candidates and our foreign guests, Abella said.

We invite them to come back and bring more of their friends to explore the various islands of the Philippines, ready to be astonished of the unexhausted beauty of each one, and willing to be moved in every way by the fervent spirit of the Filipino people, and so we say, Mabuhay! Abella said.

American comedian Steve Harvey is hosting the pageant once again, a year after the memorable snafu in which he mistakenly announced Miss Colombia Ariadna Gutierrez as the winner over Wurtzbach live on camera.

Harvey, who arrived in Manila on Saturday morning, admitted the error and went back on stage to announce Miss Philippines as the real winner.

Tourism Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo assured Filipinos welcomed Harvey with open arms and without any reservation despite last years hosting gaffe.

The popular American actor-comedian has millions of excited fans in the Philippines who look forward to having him emcee the 65th Miss Universe Coronation on Monday, when the universes tunes in on this thrilla in Manila, Teo said.

We assure everyone that, when you are with Filipinos, we embrace you as family. We are so happy, honored and proud to have Mr. Harvey in the Philippines, the tourism chief added.

Joining Harvey as co-host is model Ashley Graham, along with performances from Grammy Award-winning R&B group Boyz II Men and pop-rap star Flo Rida.

Hosting the Miss Universe pageant in the country will positively affect the countrys tourism industry, the Department of Tourism said previously.

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A House leader has raised concern over the World Health Organization report that 70 million people have been infected with HIV since the beginning of the epidemic and about 35 million have died because of it.

House deputy speaker and AAMBIS-Owa Rep. Sharon Garin said there is a need for Congress to take a drastic action to address the problem.

Garin called for a repeal of Republic Act 8504 or the Philippine AIDS Prevention and Control Act that was passed in 1998.

Under RA 8504, minors are prohibited from accessing HIV testing and other related services without written parental or guardian consenta legal barrier Deputy Speaker Garin wants removed.

While we do recognize the critical role of the parents in guiding their children based on how they think should be their childrens way as they tread the path of life, studies from experts and testimonials from health service providers continue to show how vulnerable young people are to acquiring different sexually transmitted infections because of the influences that abound from the internet, peer pressure and insufficient age-appropriate information, education and communication materials, said Garin.

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Citing WHO data, Garin said the Philippines has now the fastest-growing HIV epidemic in the world. It is also alarming, he added, that a report from the Department of Health showed that a total of 758 new HIV cases were reported in the month of November 2016.

Garin said her measure also would seek the creation of the Philippine National AIDS Council.

This agency, attached to the DoH, will be the policy-making, planning, coordinating, and advisory body of the Philippine National HIV and AIDS program. This act aims to strengthen the Philippine comprehensive policy on HIV and AIDS prevention, treatment, care, and support, Garin said.

She added the enactment of her bill will get rid of all barriers to HIV and AIDS-related services by eliminating the stigma that surrounds the epidemic and the people directly and indirectly affected by it.

It is very clear that HIV in the Philippines is a ticking time bomb, and if appropriate measures are not taken soon, the Philippines will have a full-blown epidemic, Garin said.

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The effects of the towns rise in short-term vacation rentals and dearth of available long-term housing have rippled out to families unable to afford to live in town.
Pending with the Committee on Agriculture and Food, the Animal Feeds Act of 2016, authored by Deputy Speaker Sharon Garin, seeks to amend the Livestock and Poultry Feeds Act enacted way back in 1956.

The need for a new and better law that is in tune with the demands of the present time is called for as there are a lot of changes brought about by the continued growth of the industry, Garin, whos representing AAMBIS-Owa, said in a statement .

House Bill 3355 seeks to organize, update, and strengthen the livestock and poultry feeds industry in the Philippines.

Some of the amendments proposed are to update many of the outdated definition of terms, policies, and penalties found in the original law passed six decades ago.

The proposed amendments also included a better licensing and registration to ensure the quality of all feeds whether for commercial or non-commercial use will be established.

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We must acknowledge that the success of the swine and poultry industries of the Philippines is also dependent on the Feeds Industry of the country, Garin added.

Animal feed is one of the most critical inputs to the swine and poultry industries in the Philippines as it represents roughly 60 percent of the total cost to produce pork, poultry meat and eggs, the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development cited recently

Our countrys livestock programs should go hand in hand with an organized and regulated feeds industry, of course with the fervent support from the government, Garin explained.

A proposed Animal Feed Control Advisory Committee will also be established to work hand in hand with the Department of Agricultures Bureau of Animal Industry, in order to efficiently oversee these changes in the processes. Alongside the updated administrative fees and charges, and higher fees for penalties, a revolving fund called Philippine Livestock Promotion Fund will be setup, and will serve as repository for all fees and charges collected.

If passed, this bill aims to strengthen the livestock industry in the country, and help small and poor farm workers benefit further from the industry, Garin added.

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City of San Fernando, PampangaThe Japanese Healthcare system is now being offered as an alternative model for Pampanga by a visiting international liver transplant specialist recently.

Dr. Koichi Tanaka of the International Frontier Medical Support said that he is offering the excellent healthcare services of Japan to the province.

In a courtesy call to Pampanga Gov. Lilia Pineda, the group discussed mutual support and collaboration between the provincial government and the Japanese government in terms of collaboration for improved healthcare services and critical medical programs for the people of the province.

Tanaka led the group composed of Kozo Kikuchi, president of the International Frontier Medical Support; Takayuki Hiruta, president and director of the Hiruta Riken Co. Ltd. and Cecilio Lagman, coordinator.

The Japanese offer was made in the midst of the full blast implementation on Feb. 1, 2017 of the Cuban healthcare system in Pampanga as encouraged by President Rodrigo R. Duterte.

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The World Health Organization hails the Cuban system as excellent and efficientas it deals with prevention instead of cure and is freeas mandated by Article 50 of their Constitution.

On the other hand, Japan being a member of the Organization for Economic Cooperation Developmenta group of semi and rich 30 countries who charge their citizenry 30 percent while the 70 percent is shouldered by their respective governmentsis bent on extending their support for the program in the Philippines.

Tanaka who had 2,000 liver transplant visited Diosdado P. Macapagal Memorial Hospital in Guagua and Ricardo Rodriguez Hospital annex in Bacolor. The visiting Japanese group were assisted by Dr. Jose Antonio Rivera, provincial health officer; Dr. Eddie Ponio of DPMMH and Dr. Antonio Ong of Rodriguez Hospital, respectively.

During their visits, Takana lauded the health system program of Pineda, however, he said that while the hospital staff are very active and positive their equipment, machineries, and instruments are outdated and need to be replaced.

Im very surprised because the staff is very active and efficient. I observed their facilities are very old. That is where the Japanese government can help the province, Tanaka said.

Aside from facilities, Tanaka said that he is also willing to conduct training and education to the healthcare providers to strengthen the healthcare system in Pampanga.

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ABU Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon, who has been designated amir of Southeast Asia by the terror group Daesh, has been seriously wounded in military airstrikes in Butig, Lanao del Sur, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said Saturday.

Lorenzana said Hapilon was seriously wounded in military air strikes on Wednesday and was being carried on a stretcher as they flee pursuing government troops.

As of [Friday, Hapilon] is still being carried by four men in a makeshift stretcher moving northeast of Butig, Lorenzana told AFP. Troops are in hot pursuit supported by ground artillery and air support.

Lorenzana added the military offensive killed four of Hapilons companions including an Indonesian he identified only as Mohisen.

The 50-year-old Hapilon was indicted in Washington for his involvement in the 2001 kidnapping of Americans in the Philippines, and has a $5-million bounty on his head from the US government.

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The Abu Sayyaf kidnapped American missionary couple Martin and Gracia Burnham and Peruvian-American tourist Guillermo Sobero from the Dos Palmas resort in Palawan. They were brought to Sulu, the Abu Sayyafs main stronghold in Mindanao.

SECURITY OPERATION. Government troops secure the perimeter of Butig town in Lanao del Sur where top Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon was reported to have been injured after continuing military operations. Mark Navales

The following year, Martin Burnham and Filipino nurse, Ediborah Yap were killed in a government rescue operation. Sobero was later beheaded and Gracia was able to escape.

Hapilon has pledged allegiance to the Islamic State, or Daesh, which named him amir for Southeast Asia, according to a 2016 report by the Jakarta-based thinktank Institute for Policy Analysis of Conflict.

Southeast Asians in Syria have pledged their loyalty to him, the report said.

Hapilon was based in Basilan but Lorenzana said this week that he had moved to Lanao del Sur in a bid to establish an IS presence there and is trying to rally cooperation from the Maute group, another gang which had pledged allegiance to IS.

On Friday, policemen arrested a sub-leader of the notorious Abu Sayyaf at his hiding place in Zamboanga City.

The suspect was identified as Faizal Jaafar, who was arrested by virtue of a warrant of arrest at around 12:30 p.m. by combined police and military operatives.

Jaafar is suspected to be involved in kidnapping and serious illegal detention (87 counts) in connection with the Sipadan kidnapping incident in 2001.

Military sources said Jaafar was being enticed by Hapilon to join him in Central Mindanao, particularly in Butig town in Lanao del Sur, where he had been hiding since December last year.

Last year, video footage posted on the internet showed Hapilon and his followers in Basilan declaring allegiance to IS.

The military said Hapilon and other Abu Sayyaf groups are one with the Maute Group; Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, a faction of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front; Ansar al-Khilafa Philippines; and other rogue groups spun away from the MILF and the Moro National Liberation Front have been trying to merge into one coherent organization, the better to be recognized by Daesh as an affiliate.

Military and police intelligence said the group called Dawlatul Isaiah Waliyatul Masrik is shaping to be the umbrella organization of these terror groups.

They have chosen Hapilon to be their governor for the wilayat or caliphate. Thats the drift of the information we are getting at this time, a police intelligence officer said.

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WashingtonUS President Donald Trump signed a sweeping new executive order to suspend refugee arrivals and impose tough new controls on travelers from seven Muslim countries.

Making good on one of his most controversial campaign promises, and to the horror of human rights groups, Trump said he was making America safe from radical Islamic terrorists.

This is big stuff, he declared at the Pentagon, after signing an order entitled: Protection of the nation from foreign terrorist entry into the United States.

Trumps decree suspends the entire US refugee resettlement program for at least 120 days while tough new vetting rules are established.

These new protocols will ensure that those approved for refugee admission do not pose a threat to the security and welfare of the United States.

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In addition, it specifically bars Syrian refugees from the United States indefinitely, or until the President himself decides that they no longer pose a threat.

Meanwhile, no visas will be issued for 90 days to migrants or visitors from seven mainly-Muslim countries: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

During the suspensions of the refugee and visa programs, new rules will be devised for what Trump as called the extreme vetting of applicants backgrounds.

Some exceptions will be made for members of religious minorities, which  in the countries targeted by the decree  would imply favorable treatment for Christians.

Civil liberties groups and many counterterror experts condemned the measures, declaring it inhumane to lump the victims of conflict in with the extremists who threaten them.

Extreme vetting is just a euphemism for discriminating against Muslims, said Anthony Romero, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union.

Romero argued that, by choosing countries with Muslim majorities for tougher treatment, Trumps order breaches the US Constitutions ban on religious discrimination.

Ahmed Rehab, director of the Chicago chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, said his group would mount legal challenges to fight the order tooth and nail.

Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani activist and Nobel peace laureate who was shot in the head by the Taliban in 2012, said she was heartbroken.

She urged Trump not to abandon the worlds most defenseless children and families.

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By Leonid Bershidsky

RUSSIA, a country not known for strict constitutionalism, has offered Syrias warring sides a draft constitution that will probably get rejected. But the document sheds light on Russias goals in the war-torn Middle Eastern nation.

Russia presented the draft constitution to the Syrians last week, at the peace talks it co-sponsored with Turkey in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan. The immediate reaction from the opponents of President Bashar Al-Assad was not encouraging: They pointed out to the Russians that, after US administrator Paul Bremers less-than-stellar tenure in Iraq, Syrians wouldnt put much stock in foreign attempts to lay down the law for them. But Moscow says it doesnt want the belligerents to accept its proposals wholesale: All its doing, according to Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, is offering a basis for discussion.

We are convinced by the experience of the last five years that unless specific proposals are put on the table, we may never start specific work, Lavrov said.

That sounds reasonable, but its also a well-tested Russian tactic in freezingrather than resolvingconflicts in war-torn countries.

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In May 2015, the pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine presented their proposals on Ukrainian legislation that, in their view, could bring about the countrys reunification. They demanded self-government, the right to maintain an armed peoples militia, permission to maintain close ties with Russia, and a constitutional amendment that would keep Ukraine neutral, precluding its membership in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. The amendments did not seem to be the work of eastern Ukraines peoples republics, which are ostensibly run by local thugs; they clearly came from Moscow. The Kremlins plan was for Kiev to reject the proposals so the outside world would conclude that it, not Moscow, was the problem.

That was indeed what happened, allowing Russian President Vladimir Putin to claim to Western leaders and anyone else who would listen that Kiev wouldnt compromise to end the war. No one in the West publicly agreed with that, but US and European officials have pressured Ukrainians in private meetings to show more flexibility.

As for the stalled conflict, it continued to undermine Ukraines stability at a negligible cost to Russia. To Putin, the straightest path to a more controllable, obedient Ukraine was one of attrition.

The Syrian rebels probably didnt have the time to follow the Ukraine crisis, and to them, any proposals coming from Moscow are tainted and suspect. An out-of-hand rejection, however, puts them in a Ukraine-style situation. Despite Moscows claims that it wants final resolution, it may be satisfied with a trademark frozen conflict, in which Russia more or less runs the part of the country that remains under Assads rule and Turkey does the best it can with the rebel-held part, taking on the burden of fighting the Islamic State on the ground with occasional Russian support when its in Moscows interest. That would give Putin a much-needed bargaining chip with President Donald Trump, who hopes Russia will help the US end threats from IS and other terrorists.Though such an overarching goal would have little to do with the content of the Russian-drafted constitution, the document itself is also noteworthy because it paints the ideal Syria as seen from Moscow.

The state news agency RIA Novosti has published a summary of text, which offers 85 articles. Apart from nice-sounding but meaningless statements like a ban on the militarys participation in political life, it stipulates a seven-year term for the Syrian president with a two-term limit. That would mean a chance for Assad to remain in power for another 14 years. That power would be partially shared with the parliament, which the president wouldnt be able to disband and which would be able to impeach him, appoint some key officials and judges, as well as decide on war and peace. But Putin knows well how to tame a constitutionally empowered parliament. The Russian one has been eating out of the Kremlins hand for more than a decade.

The only obvious concession to the rebels in the draft constitution would be proportional representation for ethnic and religious groups in the cabinetpresumably a softer version of the Lebanese model, under which the countrys diverse groups are entitled to specific government positions. That wont go a long way toward adequate government participation for the countrys Sunni majority.

If Syrians accepted the Russian proposals, however, they would get a better deal than Russians themselves on some points. The Russian president, elected for six years, can stay in office for two consecutive terms, then run again after a pause, as Putin did after letting Dmitri Medvedev stand in for him in 2008 through 2012. The text proposed to Syrians sets a strict two-term limit, banning such shenanigans.

The Russian draft also sets international law, such as treaties and conventions, above Syrian law. Russia has lately departed from this principle. Its constitutional court ruled in 2015 that, contrary to its international obligations, Russia doesnt always have to follow the decisions of the European Court of Human Rights.

Putins Russia doesnt put much stock in its own constitution, especially those parts of it that deal with civil liberties and the rule of law. It doesnt expect Syria or any other country to be a stickler for rules. Constitutions and laws are for optics and delaying tactics. That Putin is playing this game again, as he did in Ukraine, doesnt augur well for a speedy resolution in Syria.

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That is my rewording of this request from Thijs:

At which point does technology allow another model of social organization than that based on shared territory?

I am reminded of Estonias e-citizenship model, but taken much further. To flesh this out, imagine EU citizens could choose to which government they would pay their taxes. So you could live in Lyon, but pay taxes to Germany and have your pension set by German policy and your legal disputes settled by German courts and so on.

What cant be done this way, even say twenty years from now? Well, your water supply, your primary education system, your electricity, your local police, and your roads, to name a few government services. For those you have to deal with Lyon or some other local provider. Germany cant step in, except perhaps for some on-line parts of education but even then it wouldnt mesh well with your local face-to-face provider, even putting aside differences of language.

Given all that, should Lyon and Germany let you peel off your potentially portable pension choice to the government provider of your choice? It seems the wealthy people would cluster their fiscal and pension obligations with governments that were not so progressive in their fiscal policies. In this regard it would be like a partial privatization of pension schemes. But it would be a funny privatization rule: allow pension choice, but only from local infrastructure-producing entities. You still would have the usual problems of selection, namely that the wealthy would opt for the pension and tax schemes of Luxembourg and Monaco  hey, wait, isnt that the status quo?

Well, not quite. In essence this plan would be further reducing the residency requirements for locales and tax havens such as Luxembourg, Monaco, the Cayman Islands, and so on. You wouldnt have to live there at all. I suppose this is a way of privatizing the redistributive services of the state, without having to say you are doing so. Does that make it more politically stable or less?

I suspect a lot of local pension schemes would stay in place for reasons of familiarity, nationalism, and the gravity equation. (Just think how long it took many Greeks and Cypriots to withdraw their euros from their domestic banking systems.) So many middle class Danes will stick with the Danish system, which they know and the like, though many of the Danish wealthy would secede from it and opt for Monaco.

Overall I think of this policy as one way to improve the lot of the wealthy. Is it the way and the framing that will most induce additional effort and creativity from them? I dont see that case has been made.
As of today, I have posted 173 articles on the subject of Marcopper. Far from being an expert on this matter, most of these articles (in English and Tagalog), are based on my own research as well as first-hand information gathered from many who are involved in still seeking truth and environmental justice for Marinduque. When burning issues on this subject are being talked about, from those august chambers to the paved streets and rough roads of Marinduque, quite a number of breaking news stories that must be echoed also find their way on this blog.





New threats to the environment and the safety of affected communities resulting from the deterioration of the abandoned siltation dams of Marcopper have developed in recent weeks. I am sharing this article with you hoping it could help bring more awareness to the issues currently happening.





I would like to cite a quote attributed to Arthur Conan Doyle that may ring true here: "There is nothing more deceptive than an obvious fact."





Toxic seepage flows in various parts of Maguila-guila siltation dam,

likened to demonic green blood out to infect the living.

Marinduque environmental disaster circus: Hidden agenda glaring now?





What do we know so far about mining-related environmental and health impacts that have hounded us, Marinduquenos, for well over 20 years of loud and endless cries for truth and justice to reign?





Numerous painstaking studies have been undertaken on various subjects related to this dark episode by local geologists, metallurgical and civil engineers, physicists, pharmacologists, social scientists, geochemists

and toxicologists connected to various national government institutions. But apparently not content with local minds and expertise, foreign scientists, after the conduct of a preliminary study they themselves undertook in 2000, were commissioned by the Philippine government. P20-million of taxpayers money were spent for this same purpose: study the mining-related environmental and human health issues related to decades of mining in Marinduque, then come up with their recommendations. Read









USGS scientists returned, saw, explored the island for 18 months in 2002 and submitted its final report in 2004. The engineering studies concluded, among others, that:





"There are instabilities in several mine structures in Marinduque: the four dams which are located at Maguila-guila, Bol River, Upper and Lower Makulapnit..."

"There is acid rock drainage from the Tapian Pit overflow and from the mine waste piles into the Makulapnit, Bol, and Maguila-guila rivers."

"There is continuing erosion of mine wastes into the siltation impoundments on the Makulapnit, Bol and Maguila-guila Rivers."





And on and on and on. A critical review of the study was made by the Center for Environmental Concerns (CEC) composed of topnotch Filipino scientists. Quotes from this review:





"The USGS study was very superficial and did not come up with significant primary data that would add and improve on what have already been gathered and already known..."

"The USGS study confirmed many of the information, observations, and recommendations which previous studies, medical reports, laboratory test results, fact-finding mission assessments and testimonies have repeatedly pointed out ."

"T he suggested actions redound to a long list of tasks that indicate endless monitoring and detailed further studies."

" There is no evidence that the team exerted efforts to approach the problem from a broad historical and social perspective, but used instead a manifestly corporate-friendly approach." CEC full review here





The final study was not officially disclosed to the very people who were affected and who could potentially suffer from more serious health problems in the near or far future. Private environmental groups and media had to exert own effort to analyze/probe issues of particular interest to them for sharing with the public.





Item: (MACEC) points out as well that before the U.S. teams recommendations are implemented, these have to be first presented to the people of Marinduque, who, along with local government units, would then decide on which cleanup measures to take... this step remains undone.

still in the stage of coordination. Were soliciting assistance on how we can work this out. (PENRO chief Danilo Querijero, 2008) The local government unit is (PENRO chief Danilo Querijero, 2008) Read





In short, detailed short-term and long-term solutions based on the study were nowhere found simply because there were none up to the present.





Impressive millions of dollars floated





There was that widely-known multi-million dollar funding ($12-million put on escrow), for the rehabilitation of the Boac River, where the mining company, environmental agencies and local government units concerned proudly took turns in confirming. Then in 2013, a sudden twist occurred just like in the movies - DENR feigning ignorance about it, the provincial government mum about it, even as its chief legal counsel in the case filed against the mining company in Nevada boldly and deceivingly branded the escrow fund as a myth built on hope but no less a myth. Read more about the escrow fund here





To this day, 15 years after the foreign co-owners fled the scene to escape responsibility, no disclosure on where the money went was ever made by any of the parties concerned or if statements were made separately, they were sure to contradict one another.





In imminent danger





Through the years, DENR consistently claimed it 'regularly inspected' all mining-related structures that according to the studies were in bad shape, issued warnings on the deterioration of at least one of the structures, but apparently, and curiously, not agreeing with the scientific findings that some other structures are "in imminent danger of collapse" (Note: This has been an oft repeated media quote. The USGS study actually stated "potentially imminent failures" of the siltation dams.)





Marcopper's latest denials





Let's cut to the chase. Marcopper, to this very day has held on to the claim that it is not responsible for the environmental destruction and health problems, past and present, or deaths caused by irresponsible mining in Marinduque. As recent as November 2016, this became more evident. GMA's Motorcycle Diaries ni Jay Taruc featured "Lason sa Paraiso" showing acidic blue water from Marcopper's Bol River Dam flowing into a stream in Puting Buhangin. It also documented the same acid mine drainage flowing down Hinapulan from Makulapnit River upstream, and showed interviews with children and parents talking about health-related issues blaming it on the affected river.





Also shown in the said TV-documentary was a Marcopper letter addressed to the show host claiming that "Marcopper's existing dams are not impounding acid water", "water flowing to the Hinapulan creek are draining from mineralized areas" not subjected to Marcopper's mining operations; and that the TV-program should include a "review of the preliminary report rendered by the Team engaged by the Marinduque Provincial Government under the leadership and management of US Geological Survey". That study shows according to the mining company, acid mine drainage (AMD) "cannot be ascribed only to the Marcopper's operation but as a naturally occurring phenomenon for mineralized areas."





The mining company was apparently referring to the USGS 'preliminary report' of 2001, and not to the USGS 'final report' of 2004, mentioned above completely debunking such lies.





Screenshot of Marcopper's response to GMA's Motorcycle Diaries ni Jay Taruc





To this very day, in what may be described as some effort to show semblance of official action, DENR through MGB still finds itself blindly sending 'instructions/advises' to Marcopper to get those problematic siltation dams fixed.





Yet, in certain forums DENR refers to these structures as 'abandoned Marcopper dams'. One wonders what good would it ever do when the company had clearly ignored all past pleadings from government? Round and round in circles.





A curious question must now be asked: Is the celebrated environmental champion in Sec. Gina Lopez holding this mining company so differently from the way others are being treated? This one company that had been labeled here, there and every relevant forum in the world as the culprit behind the environmental woes in Marinduque wrought by irresponsible mining?





Gina Lopez being interviewed by Jay Taruc . Screenshot from Motorcycle Diaries.



The cryptic-est interview on this circus ever

Lopez: "Ang yabang nila (Marcopper), a. When they can have the gall to ask for a resumption of the mine after doing this? Without fixing this do they really think they can really do anything there? ...You know right now if they don't fix it the people will suffer...





"Yung mining company ang dapat mag-rehab. They should fix it. Ang challenge ngayon ay to rehabilitate the dam. It's gonna be really expensive. Up to the hundreds of millions of pesos... Ang problema dito, the mine did the devastation for one whole generation. Hanggang ngayon. It's not good. We will fix it.





"Now what we do is what should have been done 20 years ago.. is that once you suspend tulungan natin. They can't go out and i-rehabilitate nila yung mines..."





Taruc (Voice-over): "Pero sa pahayag na ipinadala sa amin ng Marcopper Mining Corporation, wala raw nakaimbak na acid water sa kanilang dam. Wala rin daw ano mang tagas mula sa kanilang mga dam papunta sa Hinapulan Creek. Ang tagas daw na dumadaloy sa Hinapulan Creek ay maaaring nanggagaling sa ibang lugar na hindi sakop ng Marcopper Mining Corporation."





Currently the dams





Maguila-guila Siltation Dam and the Makulapnit Dam/s. An unexpected and more serious In the news again are the two earthen dams of Marcopper in clear and present danger of causing more suffering to the people - the. An unexpected and more serious 'new threat' as described by MGB-Mimaropa is posed by the Maguila-guila Siltation Dam due to a subsidence that occurred in June last year. Read





Makulapnit Dams, water was discovered to be "gushing out" from a busted valve (its existence an unexplained mystery), inside another secret 'old and rotten' tunnel installed in the 1970s, MGB's Roland de Jesus was quoted to have also said that Typhoon Nina may have contributed to its deterioration and he 'doubted its chance to survive a stronger typhoon', Read. As regards the, water was discovered to befrom a busted valve (its existence an unexplained mystery), inside another secret 'old and rotten' tunnel installed in the 1970s, MGB's Roland de Jesus was quoted to have also said that Typhoon Nina may have contributed to its deterioration and he '





A repeat of the 1996 disaster is in the offing then if that were true as all the dams have been abandoned for two decades, no repairs nor rehabilitation were ever considered. The scientific study will be proven right in its warning about potentially imminent dam failure.





Circus timeline





To refresh memories on this real-time Marinduque circus show, a brief timeline relevant to the dams' potential failure follows.





Connecting the dots, one might see the diabolical shadow of a hidden agenda behind this endless circus. The singular agenda that may have been nurtured by those who professed grave concern all along. Think about it, only the colors of huge money in their bank accounts could entail massive deception even if it has taken this long to realize:





Truth is, talk about this has been going off and on in Marinduque for sometime to the unbelief of many. But this possibility could be, borrowing a term, 'potentially imminent' this time. Now, the circus cum tragi-comedy act:





Taken on January 26, 2017, this photo was released by the Municipality of Boac. It shows acid-generating mine waste flowing into the Lower Makulapnit Dam below. This increases the likehood of 'potentially catastrophic releases of large volumes of mine waste into the Makulapnit River', a problem identified in 2004 in the final report of the USGS Independent Team.

Photo courtesy of LGU Boac





Year 2004: Quoting the USGS 'Independent Study'

6.3.3 Highest priority actions that are needed to ensure public safety and prevent further catastrophic environmental degradation.

The Independent U.S. Team is unanimous in its agreement that the significant engineering and mine structure stability problems identified at the Marcopper Mine Site by the Engineering Team are the greatest priority in need of action.

The potentially imminent failure of any one of the unstable mine structures (such as any of the siltation impoundments) could lead to releases of mine waste and waters that would result in further severe environmental impacts... It is even possible that such failure could endanger the communities downstream along the Mogpog and Makulapnit/Boac river systems.

The most pressing problems at Marcopper that are causing the greatest adverse environmental impacts on the surrounding rivers are:

6.3.1 Summary of Environment Team findings

It is clear that large-scale copper mining on Marinduque has had significant adverse impacts on the environment in several different parts of the island...

Other problems were identified such as:

1) Acid-rock drainage from the Tapian Pit overflow and from mine waste piles into the Makulapnit rivers, and

2). Erosion of mine waste into the siltation impoundments on the Makulapnit, Bol, and Magila-gila rivers...

Although the lower Makulapnit siltation impoundment is still trapping eroded mine wastes, it appears that, given sufficient time, it will eventually fill completely, allowing mine wastes to then flow unchecked from the south side of the mine site into the Makulapnit River.

Read Further, the potentially imminent failures (as identified by the Engineering Team) of the Makulapnit, Bol and/or Maguila-guila siltation dams, coupled with the continued large-scale erosion of mine wastes into the siltation impoundments behind the dams, increases the likelihood of potentially catastrophic releases of large volumes of mineralized, acid-generating mine wastes into the Makulapnit, Bol and Magila-gila rivers, similar to the release that occurred in 1993...

Year 2006: Declaration of 50-year Large-Scale Mining Moratorium; Discovery of a 'seepage in a tunnel of the Upper Makulapnit Dam'





The first historic initiative undertaken by the (SP) body was the declaration of a 50-year large-scale mining moratorium on Oct. 28, 2006.

In a privilege speech, environment committee chairperson Melecio Go said: "The engineers of the mining company revealed in a meeting with committee and other officials that there is indeed a seepage in a tunnel of the Upper Makulapnit Dam similar to the seepage of August 1995 which resulted in the infamous Boac River environmental disaster of March 24, 1996..."

Erosion of mine waste into Makulapnit Siltation Dam.

Screenshot from Motorcycle Diaries





"Gov. Reyes informed the joint session that DENR officials who visited the province on April 3, 2006 confirmed the alarming condition of the tailings dam on top of Marinduque mountains which, in the unlikely event that it will collapse will bring an immense catastrophe to the low-lying towns of Boac and Mogpog.

reiterated for the total decommissioning of all mining structures, especially the tailings dams to ensure that they will not be used for any more mining activities..." "Mogpog Mayor Garcia and his local government unitto ensure that they will not be used for any more mining activities..." Read





Year 2008: An inutile Task Force Marcopper because of 'changing chiefs'; Study not presented to people; LGU still in stage of coordination; Dams 'competent' per MGB





A sub task force that was supposed to study, prioritize, and come up with an action plan based on the 2005 recommendations of a U.S. research team has also been on standby for the last three years, largely because the task force it is under keeps on changing chiefs.

The undersecretary supposed to head Task Force Marcopper is replaced whenever there is a new DENR secretary. Between 2004 and 2007, the DENR has had six different bosses.

The nongovernmental group Marinduque Council for Environmental Concerns (MACEC) points out as well that before the U.S. teams recommendations are implemented, these have to be first presented to the people of Marinduque, who, along with local government units, would then decide on which cleanup measures to take. MACEC executive secretary Miguel Magalang says this step remains undone.

PENRO chief Danilo Querijero himself says, The local government unit is still in the stage of coordination. Were soliciting assistance on how we can work this out.

View of Upper Makulapnit Dam. 34 million cubic meters of water.





MACECs Magalang says that one of the dams in question in Boac has a catchment area of 34 million cubic meters. Boac River can hold only about 11 million cubic meters of material...'

do not pose immediate danger. In general, the dams are competent, says MGB Regional Director Rolando de Jesus. Read MGB officials, though, say that based on the bureaus most recent inspection  done just last June 19 (2008)  Marcoppers mining structures generally





Year 2014: 4,500 sign petition to check integrity of the dams; MGB initiates 'Hydrology Study' on waters of Boac and Mogpog Rivers (results if any, not disclosed to public).



Netizens are asking the government to review the structural integrity of the dams and ponds abandoned in Marinduque by the Marcopper Mining Corp. More than 4,500 have signed a petition started by Jonathan Subagan on Change.org...

Tanggalin po ninyo ang pangamba sa puso ng ating mga mamamayan. Labingwalong (18) taon na po ang nakalipas ng nasira ang Tapian Pit at halos dalawamput-isang (21) taon naman ng bumigay ang Maguila-guila Siltation Dam...." Read

But not a word from DENR or MGB

The task to consistently monitor the structures and facilities of the mine site has become a special function of the MGB-MIMAROPA.

To strengthen the regular monitoring of Marcopper Mines and consistent with the provisions of Executive Order No. 79 relevant to the rehabilitation of inactive/abandoned mines, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau-MIMAROPA commences the Hydrology Study to determine the impact of Marcopper on the surface waters of the Boac and Mogpog Rivers watersheds which is being undertaken by a third party specialist. , the Mines and Geosciences Bureau-MIMAROPA commences the Hydrology Study to determine the impact of Marcopper on the surface waters of the Boac and Mogpog Rivers watersheds which is being undertaken by a third party specialist. Read

View from upstream Makulapnit River





Year 2015: MGB admits 'legal and financial issues' but government implements 'all safety measures'





to monitor the condition, not only of the Tapian Pit, but all of the MMC structures and facilities. He admitted MGBs limitations in providing total resolution to the besetting problems due to restricting legal and financial issues but confirmed, nonetheless, that the national government will exhaust every possible means to implement all safety measures. Read MGB IV-B Regional Director Roland De Jesus, acknowledging the vulnerability of local communities to potential hazards, assured the continuous activities of the MGBHe admitted MGBs limitations in providing total resolution to the besetting problems due tobut confirmed, nonetheless, that the national government

declare 8 provinces as mining-free zones but Marinduque, the 'poster child for irresponsible mining past and present' was not one of them. Read Continuous lobbying by local stakeholders resulted in the removal by national government in 2007 of Marcopper from government's priority sites for mining projects. Came 2015, Congress moved tobutthe 'poster child for irresponsible mining past and present' was





Year 2016: Suddenly 'Resume mining', 'mining safe', 'disaster won't happen again', 'there's transparency' - MGB director.





Roland De Jesus, a director of the Mines and Geoscience Bureau in Manila, says mining in the Philippines is safer now. As for Marinduque, he says, its not Manilas responsibility to clean up the mess that a private company left behind. But he offers another solution. One of the alternatives is to resume mining, he says.

According to De Jesus, based on the actual production rate of the company when they suddenly stopped, they still have about 17 years of mine life. He says thats only an alternative if a company has the financial and technical capabilities to rehabilitate the damage caused by the previous operator.

wont happen again because new laws demand accountability for environmental damage. I am confident we have a good mining law, one of the best in the world. Before, there was a lack of transparency, says De Jesus. De Jesus adds that a disaster like the one in Marinduquesays De Jesus. Read





Year 2017: Meanwhile, the worst has loomed for all with naked eyes to see









New threat from Maguila-guila Dam

'New threat' of subsidence on the Maguila-guila Siltation Dam, where formed a " 60-meter wide funnel-like depression on the surface of the impoundment area."

...the condition of subsidence poses more problems as the collapse continues to widen and deepen... Active erosional processes have caused immediate clogging of the drain tunnel and increased sedimentation of the river channel near the drain outlet. Such events impose serious threats on adjoining structures and areas, most specifically, potential erosion or damage of the disturbed section of the Maguila-guila earth dam, possible breakdown of the drain structures, and brisk siltation and widespread inundation problems at downstream Mogpog River.

So for the Nth time, there goes DENR-MGB again of 'constanty advising' Marcopper:

constantly advising Marcopper Mining Corporation (MMC) to address the problems regarding subsidence and siltation in the Maguila-guila Siltation Dam. MMC was also instructed to comply with the action plans and recommendations prepared by the monitoring team." "With the increasing threat of massive siltation and flooding in the riverine environment of Mogpog, MGB-MIMAROPA isregarding subsidence and siltation in the Maguila-guila Siltation Dam. MMC was alsoprepared by the monitoring team." Read

Water gushing inside Makulapnit tunnel





Gushing threat from Makulapnit Tunnel

The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) detected leaks in one of the abandoned dams of Marcopper Mining Corp., raising anew public concerns over the integrity of the decades-old mining facility in Marinduque province.

Roland de Jesus, director of the MGB in Mimaropa (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan) region, said an eight-member team sent to the area found leaks in a diversion tunnel of Marcoppers Makulapnit dam in Barangay Hinapulan in the capital town of Boac.

De Jesus said the MGB has yet to determine the gravity of the situation. He said water is gushing out of the old and rotten tunnel that was installed when the mining company started its operations in 1970s.

De Jesus said heavy rain dumped by Typhoon Nina (international name: Nock-Ten) in December may have contributed to the tunnels deterioration.

He doubted its chance to survive a stronger typhoon, which will bring heavier rainfall or similar to the amount of rain dumped by Tropical Storm Ondoy (international name: Ketsana) in Metro Manila in 2009.

Inside the 'old and rotten' tunnel





Luna Manrique, Boac municipal planning officer, said members of the Citizen Armed Forces Geographical Unit (Cafgu) patrolling the area on Jan. 18 noticed the cracks in the concrete tunnel.

water leakage had significantly increased from the time he observed it in October 2013. Read Manrique, in a letter to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, said





Tama na po! Stop this circus!





To All Concerned:

Please stop the show! For once, more than two decades of this glaring circus of lies and deception cum tragi-comic act must come to an end.





The continuing struggle of the people of Marinduque under six presidents from Marcos to Aquino should be more than enough for our incessant cries and troubles to be heard.





Now

the government, our national government under President Rodrigo R. Duterte, we implore, to finally heed us, save us from this pit.




THE TRUE COST OF ALL THAT 'CHEAP' LAOR THAT DESTROYED AMERICA THE BIG SECRET DEMOCRATS DO NOT WANT YOU TO KNOW: Heather Mac Donald of the Manhattan Institute has testified before a Congressional committee that in 2004, 95% of all outstanding warrants for murder in Los Angeles were for illegal aliens; in 2000, 23% of all Los Angeles County jail inmates were illegal aliens and that in 1995, 60% of Los Angeless largest street gang, the 18th Street gang, were illegal aliens.
Forty Yellowstone National Park bison captured last winter with the idea that they would eventually be transferred to a tribal herd have been caught in a power struggle.

Our intent would have been to ship the bison as soon as we could have, as early as last March, said Morgan Warthin, Yellowstone spokeswoman. We will continue to look for options.

The more recent option was to send the 40 bison to slaughter since Montana would not allow them to be relocated to a tribal herd in the state.

Thats prohibited in Montana code, the shipment of bison to tribes if they are not brucellosis free, said Marty Zaluski, state veterinarian. They havent completed the quarantine protocol.

And he added the Park Services facility at Stephens Creek, where bison are corralled before shipment to slaughter and the 40 bison are being held, does not meet quarantine requirements.

Warthin wrote in an email that for the last 11 months Interagency Bison Management Plan partners "were aware that once bison operations began, the facility could not support the 40 bison and they would need to be moved." She agreed with Zaluski that "Stephens Creek is not and was never intended to be a quarantine facility."

On Jan. 19 Gov. Steve Bullock blocked the National Park Service from shipping the 40 bison to slaughter by halting the shipment of all Yellowstone bison to slaughter. Such a move seems contradictory to Montana officials previously stated concerns that the Yellowstone bison population be dramatically reduced and kept at a population of around 3,500. Right now the Yellowstone herd is estimated at about 5,500.

The governors office is working with a number of agencies to try and find a home for those (40) bison temporarily so the Park Service can ship the other bison to slaughter, Zaluski said.

He wanted to save whatever bison he could that were going to the tribes, he added.

While we welcome the governors temporary reprieve, Im disappointed that the process seems to have stalled, said Robert Magnan, Fort Peck Fish and Game director, in a press release from Defenders of Wildlife. This is a tragedy on many levels. The Tribes of Fort Peck Reservation have spent a tremendous amount of resources to prepare to receive these bison. Its difficult to accept that our generosity has been rejected for no legitimate reason. And its a tragedy for those bison which will likely be slaughtered now instead of helping grow conservation herds for our tribes and the American public. Were still prepared to meet any requirements to do this, but it appears the National Park Service has closed the door on us.

So who is to blame?

Bison advocates like Magnan are blaming the Park Service for not finalizing its bison quarantine and relocation plan, which is still awaiting approval from the agencys regional director.

A draft plan was released on Jan. 13, 2016, with a preferred alternative to collaborate with Fort Peck Reservation as the bison quarantine facility site, said a press release from Defenders of Wildlife. More than 300,000 people commented in support of this alternative by the Feb. 29, 2016, deadline. A final decision is long overdue. Over 99,326 people have contacted the National Park Service since December 2016 requesting final approval of this plan. However, it is now apparent that the NPS regional director will not sign the plan, and the NPS will maintain the existing program which sends all captured bison to slaughter regardless of their brucellosis status.

Warthin explained the situation differently.

NPS, (Animal Plant and Health Inspection Service) and the state of Montana have not been able to reach an agreement on the shipment of those 40 bison to Fort Peck, she said. We are hopeful, but at this point were in a holding pattern.

Another 200 bison are being held in the same Stephens Creek bison capture facility, just north of the community of Gardiner. Warthin said the Park Service was beginning to prepare those animals for shipment to slaughter when it received the governors executive order blocking their shipment to processing facilities where the meat is then distributed to several tribes. The Park Service had planned to ship anywhere between 900 to 1,300 bison to slaughter this winter.

Many options are on the table right now, Warthin said.

Defenders of Wildlife, National Wildlife Federation and World Wildlife Fund noted that the groups had worked with the Fort Peck and Fort Belknap tribes in 2012 and 2014 to bring Yellowstone bison from quarantine facilities to the two reservations to complete their quarantine process and restore conservation herds. Those herds now total over 300 animals. But the Yellowstone bison transferred back then had been held in quarantine for years, not months.

Warthin said Yellowstone officials' "ultimate goal for bison is to allow this wild, migratory animal to move more freely across the landscape as other wildlife."
@PatriciaMazzei

The current and former mayors of the city of Miami -- a Republican and a Democrat, respectively -- have publicly chided Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez for directing county jails to comply with federal immigration detention requests following President Donald Trump's crackdown on "sanctuary" jurisdictions for immigrants in the country illegally.

Mayor Tomas Regalado tweeted Friday night that he's "disappointed" by Gimenez's Thursday decision. Regalado also seemed to indicate city cops have no interest in acting as immigration deputies -- something Gimenez insists the county won't be doing either, even as it subsidizes federal detentions. The city doesn't manage any jails of its own.

@MiamiPD job is to protect and serve the residents of the @CityofMiami. I am disappointed with the decision of the County.  Tomas Regalado (@Tomas_Regalado) January 28, 2017

Several Twitter users, perhaps unaware that the county and city are separate jurisdictions, had apparently confused Regalado with Gimenez, and Regalado responded to them as well.

@mkg1123 I am an immigrant. The City of Miami will not comply. However Miami Dade County is a whole differ ent government.  Tomas Regalado (@Tomas_Regalado) January 28, 2017

Regalado and Gimenez have been at odds politically for decades, most recently when Regalados daughter ran last year against Gimenez. When big-city mayors urged then-President-elect Trump last month to protect DREAMers, immigrants brought into the country illegally as children, Regalado was quick to offer his support. Gimenez took longer to say he backed President Barack Obamas program to protect DREAMers from deportation.

Separately, former Miami Mayor Manny Diaz wrote in a Miami Herald op-ed that Gimenez, a Republican and Diaz's friend, acted too hastily, without seeking enough legal guidance about Trump's executive order.

"While other mayors have taken an approach that protects their communities, Mayor Gimenez has rushed into action to please the president, betraying our communitys long history of welcoming immigrants," Diaz wrote.

Object preview

He argued that Miami-Dade, which already notifies the feds of all of the people it arrests and is willing to detain them as long as Immigration and Customs Enforcement defrays the expense, already complied with Trumps order. Both mayors weighed in after angry protesters demonstrated outside County Hall on Friday, and deluged Gimenez's office with phone calls and emails opposing his directive.

All three mayors -- Diaz, Gimenez and Regalado -- were born in Cuba.
via @learyreports

WASHINGTON -- The news photographers rushed to the front of the room, jutting their lenses at Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida. Colleagues on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee chuckled at the spectacle, which Rubio built up over weeks, ensuring a return to the national spotlight.

On President Donald Trumps first full weekday in office, Rubio faced a consequential decision: Maintain an election promise to stand up to Trump or set aside objections to Rex Tillerson, the nominee for secretary of state, and spare Trump a measure of dissent from fellow Republicans.

It was a close call, Rubio said after the vote Monday, engulfed by reporters. A woman in a Greenpeace shirt joined the herd, mockingly holding up a model of a human spine.

Rubios vote in favor of Tillerson, despite concern about the former Exxon Mobil CEOs coziness with Russia, illustrates a reality and a calculation. This is Trumps Washington, and Rubio, who as a presidential candidate accused Trump of being a con man, is choosing a safer route.

The 45-year-old starts his second term with an opportunity to address longtime criticism that he is more flash than substance, a charismatic speaker who spent a great deal of his first six-year term angling for the presidency, as he likely would have done had Hillary Clinton prevailed.

More here.

Photo credit: Matt McClain, The Washington Post
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It is intriguing the way that so many people assume something to be impossible and frightening in a particularly local or familiar context, but then completely miss the way that they accept such things in other contexts without even a hint of fear or apprehension. In Guam, a colony of the US for more than a century, and a colony of Spain for several centuries prior to that, this is frustratingly true and real in terms of the people of the island, both indigenous and non-indigenous, living in terror of Guam becoming independent. For other nations and other locations, independence is something to celebrate, a key moment in terms of a nation's development or evolution, something to look back on pride, even if your country has serious problems past or present. But it is intriguing how for example, Filipinos, Chinese or Koreans and others on Guam can celebrate the nationhood and the independence of their own nations, whether it be from colonialism, from imperialism or from their own social unrest, but in terms of Guam, they see the island achieving independence as being terrifying and unrealistic. It is also bewildering the way Chamorros and people from the US on Guam make the same contradictory assumptions about Guam, while enthusiastically celebrating the independence, both contemporary and historical, of the US. It is so fascinating to perceive all the various ways in which this resistance is articulated and how people can still somehow make these arguments in one hand, while waving a flag of an independent country in the other.While in the current moment this can cause frustration, in the long term it can be useful. During FESTPAC last year, four panel discussions were held at the University of Guam, three focusing on each possible future political status for Guam, and the final featuring a representative of each at the same time. During the night focusing on independence as an option for Guam's future, the consulate for the Philippines on Guam made statements which gave some hope in terms of helping to overcome this unhelpful compartmentalization of conceptualizations of independence. He noted that on Guam, many Filipinos who had made the island their home seemed to be against Chamorro self-determination and their taking the lead in decolonization. He said that much of this could be explained due to their own lack of knowledge or understanding of their home country's fight for independence and decolonization. They were too Americanized and therefore cut off from the possibilities in the world. If they learned more about how their ancestors had fought for their own independence and have struggled since with problems from within and without, they would not feel compelled to deprive Chamorros of such a chance, but rather feel happy to support them and cheer them on as they take this step.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP)  The building withstood.

Though soaking in stinky, soggy ash from a fire that gutted the sanctuary Jan. 3, the structure of the Joy Light Church of God in Christ's building survived.

No one was injured in what parishioners are hearing was probably an electrical fire in this building that holds a special place in the city's history.

The building housed one of the state's oldest black congregations, Grant Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church.

The pueblo-style building, with a tall ceiling and bold beams, was constructed 64 years ago.

It served as the hub of the 1950s black civil rights movement in Albuquerque.

"A lot of people pass that corner and they don't know what was done there, the history," said parishioner Lorraine Lucero-Smith. "That history didn't burn, the memories didn't burn. The church building has held up."

Lucero-Smith was on a committee at the Joy Light church working to get the building placed on the city's historic registry. The committee turned in its final application and paperwork in December after nearly three years of research.

It's unclear how the fire will affect that effort, but Lucero-Smith and Joy Light Elder Daryl Bell, the pastor's son, said at this point the congregation, about 30 core members, is just trying to get a grasp on where they will gather while they sort through the logistics of insurance and renovation.

"That's our church. We're proud of it. It has a lot of history, a lot of heritage, and hopefully we can reconstruct and still help the community which we're in," Bell said.

***

The Pentecostal congregation bought the building about 25 years ago and has been struggling to upgrade the aging structure.

Church leaders were hoping the historic status could generate some grants to bring heat to all parts of the building and build handicap access ramps, doors and bathrooms.

"This just comes at a time when we just did not expect it," Bell said.

A longtime congregation member and pastor of a sister church died the day before the fire, Bell said.

"So the next day for the church to go on fire, it was just a lot," Bell said. "But, as believers, we believe all things happen for a reason and something good will come out of this. If the building can be reconstructed then ... the insurance will pay for the roof and carpet and things like that, and maybe even help us restructure things about bringing it back to code."

Bell said the congregation hopes to reconstruct the building and move back in. But the group will need new chairs and musical instruments, including something to replace its vintage original Hammond electric organ.

"We've had it for years. We purchased it from a church in Belen that had one when we were looking for one. We use it every service," Bell said. "They say the fire started close to that instrument and, in the picture I took inside, I could already tell it was completely ruined. It was made out of wood."

In addition to recovery costs, the church also has staff to pay.

Church leaders have started a GoFundMe account, Joylight Church Fire Recovery Fund, to help offset the costs associated with the fire.

Mayor Richard Berry reached out to the church by contacting parishioner Yvette Kaufman-Bell, who is the director of the state's Office of African American Affairs.

"I just wanted to reach out ... and let them know the community is with you and standing with you," Berry said.

And he offered the full cooperation of the city's permitting department as the church rebuilds.

***

The building was erected in 1952 by the state's first black congregation, which established itself in New Mexico in the late 1800s and moved around until establishing this location in the South Broadway neighborhood, according to records from the city's Office of Diversity and Human Rights and blackpast.org, an online collection of African-American history.

At that time, Lucero-Smith said, the neighbors were predominantly black residents.

The church, then called Grant Chapel, became not only a community center, but also the meeting location for the local chapter, and visitors to the NAACP and other civil rights groups.

"They did a lot for the community. That's where people wanted to get married. It was important socially and politically, and for worshipping in the black community," Lucero-Smith said.

"We just picked up on the legacy and we continue. You know, I think we can still build there. What you see now is just smoke and water damage, but there is still hope and we're hoping to rebuild it."
HELENA  The Montana House gave initial approval Friday to bills that would add protections for public workers who allege government waste, fraud or abuse within their agencies.

One of the measures by Rep. Kirk Wagoner (R-Montana City) would bar retaliation against a whistleblower, a public employee who alleges wrongdoing. The second would allow a public employee to file a civil lawsuit if his or her supervisor obstructs that worker from communicating with a legislator about "a matter of public concern."

"This is strengthening and clarifying public employees' First Amendment rights to talk," Wagoner said in debate on the House floor.

The original bills would have created new criminal offenses for obstruction and retaliation, punishable by up to five years in prison, but they were reduced in committee to civil actions.

Both bills were supported by Carol Bondy, a former Department of Public Health and Human Services auditor who filed a wrongful discharge lawsuit against the state after she was fired in 2015.

Bondy testified earlier this month that her dismissal was in retaliation for reporting the misuse of state and federal funds within the department. However, an unemployment benefits hearing officer determined she was fired for misconduct and found that she knew that another employee had sent a legislator confidential information.

The obstruction measure, House Bill 202, passed on a 63-37 vote. It says that a supervisor who takes any action to impede a government worker from talking to a legislator can be fined up to $5,000 per violation, along with any damages awarded by a judge. The bill specifies that confidential information is not allowed to be disclosed.

One opponent of the measure, Democratic Rep. Laurie Bishop, of Livingston, said the bill would pit public employees against each other. Another Democrat, Rep. Mary Ann Dunwell, of Helena, said she worried that a low-level supervisor could be made a scapegoat over a broader agency prohibition against communicating with legislators.

The retaliation measure, House Bill 208, was approved on a 63-37 vote. The bill would allow an employee to be reinstated and compensated for lost wages and benefits if a judge finds another public worker retaliated against or threatened retaliation for alleging waste, fraud or abuse.

Democratic Rep. Virginia Court, of Billings, noted the bill covers not only state workers, but employees at all levels of government. This bill was not ready, and there are already protections for workers in the law, she said.

Both bills must pass a final vote before they go to the Senate.
HELENA  Montana State Hospital, the states publicly run psychiatric facility, was set to lose its federal agreement in February because of whats called an immediate jeopardy, a situation where the hospitals noncompliance with federal regulations was considered serious enough to risk death or serious injury to a resident.

After a legal notice was published in The Montana Standard on Thursday announcing the termination  set for Feb. 8  of the agreement between the Warm Springs hospital and the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid, the agency sent the paper a notice of retraction, saying that the situation that put residents at significant risk had been abated.

The hospital is in the middle of a federal survey now, said Department of Public Health and Human Services public information officer Jon Ebelt, so the information that can be made public is limited. Those with knowledge of the hospital said surveyors were on-site this week.

The immediate jeopardy finding came after surveyors visited the hospital Jan. 13. By Jan. 25 the facility had made changes to correct deficiencies and the agreement with CMS was reinstated, Ebelt said.

Ebelt said Friday deficiencies found by surveyors were related to staffing shortages as well as the hospital's physical environment.

Surveyors found a shortage of nurses and direct care staff. "The entire state of Montana is experiencing workforce shortages and the nation as a whole is experiencing a nursing shortage. Montana is no exception," Ebelt said.

Zoe Barnard, the administrator of the Addictive and Mental Disorders Division, told a legislative appropriations committee at a Jan. 10 meeting that the division was suffering from workforce shortages across all jobs.

We have a problem with work force that goes all the way down to the direct-care staff level, she said of the division.

The hospital has hired temporary staff and approved overtime compensation for existing staff until a long-term solution is found. Ebelt did not have information Friday about how many employees work at the hospital, how many are nurses and how many positions were empty.

Surveyors also found problems with the facility's building, including sink faucets, mirrors, doors and door handles that the survey states are not designed for the unique safety needs of the patient population.

The hospital is currently working to correct all of the deficiencies that were found, Ebelt said.

A spokesman for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid said last year said that no facilities in Region 8, which includes Montana, North and South Dakota, Wyoming, Utah and Colorado, have had their agreements terminated in the last three years.

Montana State Hospital has operated in some form since the 1870s as a place for the mentally ill. It is run by the Addictive and Mental Services Division of the Department of Public Health and Human Services.

Over the last several years the hospital has struggled with a growing patient population. At one point in 2015 the facility, which was licensed for 216 beds at the time, had 253 patients. A forensic unit opened in Galen last year can hold up to 54 patients, though the facility still runs near capacity since it cannot refuse patients sent there by the courts. Average daily census in 2016 was 245.

The state hospital is a 100 percent state-funded facility that receives reimbursement for patients who qualify for Medicare and Medicaid. To receive these reimbursements the hospital must comply with federal rules and regulations that govern how the hospital treats its patients.

In fiscal year 2016, the hospitals budget was about $40 million. The same fiscal year it was reimbursed about $5.8 million by Medicare and $541,000 from Medicaid, according to a spokesman for the department. That means federal dollars reimburse about 15 percent of the hospitals budget. In fiscal year 2017, the hospital's budget was $44.2 million.

Patients get to the state hospital either through a civil or forensic, or criminal, commitment. Civil patients can come through detentions ordered by courts, as most do, or voluntarily. In fiscal year 2013, 563 of the 604 admissions were civil.

Lee Newspapers has requested but not yet received the survey documents about the events that led to the January announcement, but a review of hundreds of pages of past inspections by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid shows inspectors have found the hospital out of compliance before.

A finding of immediate jeopardy is not something new for the state hospital  it happened after a 2010 site inspection.

Surveyors visited the hospital between Aug. 30-Sept. 2, 2010. Documents detail numerous ways the hospital was not in compliance with federal rules  including failing to justify the use of restraints for several patients and not notifying the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid about a patient who died after falling while in restraints.

The immediate jeopardy was removed by Sept. 9, 2010, after surveyors were able to confirm that corrective actions were taken. Five of the patients who inspectors found to have received improper treatment were no longer at the hospital, one because the patient had died. The hospital created better assessment plans, improved the way it treated two other patients, developed risk assessment and fall prevention protocols and said it would better monitor injuries following falls.
CHEYENNE, Wyo.  Wyoming lawmakers considering how to address a looming $360 million education budget shortfall debated Friday whether students are showing good results for one of the nation's highest rates of K-12 spending and whether cuts would make much difference.

Possible solutions in a bill before the Senate Education Committee include allowing bigger elementary classes and spending less on administration and student transportation. The committee didn't act on the bill and plans to hear more public testimony Monday.

Wyoming boosted education spending significantly when booming gas production made the state flush with cash starting in the early 2000s. Now, gas, oil and even coal production has fallen off sharply, crimping state revenue and squeezing state budgets.

Lawmakers and Gov. Matt Mead have cut state spending significantly over the past couple years but per-pupil spending continues to top $17,000 per year. Only Vermont, Alaska and New York spend more, according to Republican Sen. Charlie Scott, of Casper, a sponsor of the bill before the committee.

"Frankly, our results  while they are good compared with the average  they are not commensurate with the position we are in with the funding," Scott told the committee.

He described Wyoming's standardized test scores as about 10th-best in the country, though Democratic Sen. Chris Rothfuss, of Laramie, said they're more accurately in the top five.

"There's no state in the region that comes close," Rothfuss said.

Rothfuss credited education spending but Republican Senate President Eli Bebout, of Riverton, who alongside Scott testified in support of the bill, said in fact the opposite appears to be the case.

"Money doesn't seem to be the answer," Bebout said.

The bill would gradually increase minimum class sizes for grades K-3 from 16 now to 19 in the 2019-20 school year  while also raising reading proficiency goals for those students. Ninety percent of third-graders would need to be proficient in reading for their grade, up from 85 percent now.

Republican Sen. Hank Coe, of Cody, questioned whether bigger class sizes and more ambitious reading proficiency goals weren't at odds. Teachers would still be able to ensure that students who need reading help get individualized instruction, answered Scott.

"I don't think raising the class size here hurts that effort particularly," Scott said.

The bill would cut back on administrative costs by filling no more than half of all top-level school district vacancies over a yearlong period. The state Education Department would cut school transportation costs 10 percent below 2015-16 levels.

Other cost-saving proposals in the sprawling bill would seek reimbursement from Medicaid for a portion of the state's special-education spending, as is common in other states.

After years of education spending increases, some belt-tightening would be overdue even if Wyoming didn't face a budget crisis, said Scott.

"We've let things get fat and happy when there wasn't the pressure, and now there is," he said.
"It's a struggle daily."

Adam Snobar and his dog Buttercup headed to the 11th annual Project Homeless Connect on Friday, an effort of the At-Risk Housing Coalition. Snobar, like many who come to the event, isn't homeless but his situation is precarious.

The program brings together community services once a year to help those who are homeless or who are at risk of becoming homeless. The goal is to set participants on a path to self-sufficiency.

There was medical, vision, dental and mental health care, food, clothes, addiction recovery support, legal advice, housing assistance, employment and financial counseling, personal hygiene services, haircuts, pet services and more.

"I'm on disability," Snobar said. "We can barely afford the place we have. Missoula needs cheaper housing."

It's the life of living paycheck to paycheck that makes it difficult for many in Missoula to meet their basic needs.

Project Homeless Connect brought 75 organizations to the Missoula County Fairgrounds on Friday  a change in location from years past.

"We wanted to try having more space, be more spread out," said Theresa Williams, United Way of Missoula County's Reaching Home coordinator.

***

This was Williams' first year running the event.

Parking was always an issue downtown, she said, when the event was at the First United Methodist Church, Missoula Children's Theatre and the Missoula Public Library.

At the fairgrounds, parking was easier, though the lot was still packed. And the event was spread through six buildings, with a map guiding participants around and volunteers placed strategically to help those who were lost  or warn them of ice patches.

Williams said 350 people came to the event last year, and they planned for 500 this year because of the new location.

It comes down to outreach, she said. Thursday night, she spent two hours at the Poverello Center registering people for the event. Other volunteers headed to shelters around town. More rode Mountain Line buses Friday morning, registering people.

It coincides with the Point-in-Time survey, one used nationwide to try counting how many are in our homeless population. As participants walked in to register, they were asked where they slept the night before.

In 2016, the survey identified 395 homeless individuals and families in Missoula. Of those, a third were families, including 78 children.

About 60 were considered "chronically" homeless, meaning they had a disability and were homeless for a year or longer, or they had a disability and had been homeless at least four times in the last three years.

Workers spread the word through fliers, and on the radio, online and on Facebook. Many participants come year after year, knowing it's around the same time every year. They could take a survey this year to let Williams know what worked and what didn't. Eventually, she'd like to see this event more than once a year.

The idea came from an effort of the same name in San Francisco, which began in 2004.

"It sometimes takes months to get your needs met," Williams said. "We try to make this as simple as possible, all in one stop."

More than 200 volunteers headed to the fairgrounds to help this year.

"I'm in awe," Williams said. "It's great to see so many people come and get these opportunities.

"I just get emotional talking about it. I'm running on excitement, hope and faith."

***

Peggy Armer has lived here since 2009 but had never heard of Project Homeless Connect before.

She wishes she'd known sooner.

"My mental health case manager told me about it," she said. "I was in Phoenix before and I bounced all over the place. They had me on 30 different medications. (My doctor) at Partnership took me off all of it, and we started over.

"I have those connections here where I didn't in Arizona. It needs to be out there more what's in our community."

The Missoula Police Department and Missoula County Sheriff's Office have learned that lesson, as have the people they respond to who are in crisis  who often don't trust law enforcement.

The Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) has been in place for two years now, and this was their first year at Project Homeless Connect. It's a program that trains law enforcement, emergency responders and mental health providers on responding to and working with people in a mental health crisis.

"It's mainly getting law enforcement and mental health services working together so we know what's here, we can get people reconnected and divert them from the state hospital or detention center," said school resource officer Jeff Lloyd.

With CIT, officers know all of the options available in the community. They become a "funneling to the gateway of services," he said.

"They're services that cops generally don't even know about," said sheriff's Detective Sgt. Jeremiah Petersen. "We're hopefully getting them (the citizen) somewhere that helps, rather than just a Band-Aid."

Patrol officer Ryan Kamura went through CIT training last year, and "right out the gate" got a call about a homeless woman having a mental health crisis.

"She didn't trust law enforcement," Kamura said. "She had had bad experiences before. So I walked and talked with her for 20 minutes. She kept saying, 'You're going to take me to St. Pat's for an eval.'"

He didn't, instead explaining different options available for her. It "de-escalated" the situation, he said. The next day, she thanked him.

"This breaks down the stigma of mental health and what people are going through," Lloyd said. "Knowing what's around, it takes down the fear of the unknown. Because we're never going to see a reduction in the number of people who have mental illness. It's a human condition."
State game wardens killed two more mountain lions in the Grant Creek area of northwest Missoula on Friday as heavy snow continues to push both deer and the predators that hunt them down into the citys northern valleys.

There were multiple incidents where the lions approached adults and children and came within 10 to 20 feet of several individuals, FWP predator manager Jamie Jonkel wrote in an email to residents of the Nevada Trail and Keegan Gulch areas of Grant Creek. The lions were entering sheds, car ports and climbing under porches, vehicles, boats and walking between houses and looking in windows.

Jonkel said game wardens found two juvenile male mountain lions feeding on a deer near a house on Friday morning and killed both of them. They believe two more members of the same family group are also hunting in the area and continue to search for them. The deer carcass was removed in hopes the lions will leave the area on their own.

An adult lion and her three kittens were killed by an FWP game warden on Jan. 17 after the lions killed two dogs in the Grant Creek neighborhood in Missoula.

Deer and elk are concentrated in certain areas along with the predators that hunt them, Jonkel said. Many of these important big game wintering grounds have been subdivided and are now considered to be within the urban-wildlands interface. This winter, Montana residents should expect to see lions and observe lion activity wherever there are concentrations of elk and deer.

That includes the Brookside Way subdivision in the middle Rattlesnake Valley as well. On Friday, FWP officials sent out an alert that residents had reported sightings and tracks near the houses, and asked that people not leave salt or feed out for deer that frequent the area.

Grant Creek resident Bert Lindler said in an email that several wolves have also been sighted in the Grant, Butler and Lavalle Creek areas in the past week or so.

We're in the middle of a tough winter, Lindler wrote. Elk and deer are down low, and the critters that eat elk and deer have no choice but to live nearby. I'm carrying my bear spray when walking my dog this winter. My dog is never far from me.
HELENA  University of Montana President Sheila Stearns and her husband, Hal, received 2017 Governors Humanities Awards during a Thursday ceremony at the Capitol.

The couple earned the awards for teaching, supporting and demonstrating the value of the humanities during their distinguished roles in Montana education. Hal worked as a teacher and public humanities presenter, and Sheila served as Montana Commissioner of Higher Education. She was named UMs interim president in December.

Its a great privilege for both Hal and me to be recognized with this honor, Sheila Stearns said. The humanities teach so many lessons and play key roles in critical thinking and developing well-rounded individuals. They are something we have always promoted.

Humanities Montana and Gov. Steve Bullock presented the awards to six Montanans. The others were Chere Jiusto, John Murray, Karen Aspevig Stevenson and Dorothea Susag.

For more information on the awards, visit http://bit.ly/2je0chu.
The trickle of refugee families to Missoula will be shut down altogether, at least temporarily, after President Donald Trump began implementing his plan Friday to impose his promised extreme vetting of the U.S. refugee program.

Trump signed an executive action that he said establishes new vetting measures to keep radical Islamic terrorists out of the country. The order suspends for 120 days the entire U.S. refugee program and bans for 90 days the entrance of anyone from seven countries with terrorism concerns.

The International Rescue Committee, one of nine federally recognized resettlement agencies in the United States, opened Montanas only office last summer in Missoula and has accepted 56 refugees since. Twenty-seven Congolese, many of them Christians, arrived by the end of September, which was the end of the federal fiscal year.

Four Iraqis landed in Missoula in October, followed by a dozen Eritreans in November and December. This month Missoula saw its first Syrian refugees  four on Jan. 5 and five more on Jan. 18. A lone Iraqi came on Jan. 19.

The Eritreans are known to be of the Orthodox Christian faith. The religions of the more recent arrivals are not known.

Missoulas outgoing IRC executive director, Molly Short Carr, couldnt be reached for comment Friday. Neither could her interim replacement, Patrick Poulin, director of the IRCs Salt Lake City office.

Mary Poole, co-founder in 2015 of Soft Landing Missoula, said the order leaves some things unclear, including possible exceptions to the 120-day ban for religious minorities.

We can probably definitely say it will slow things down, at least in that 120-day period," Poole said. "It doesnt look to stop resettlement altogether. If theres a positive, thats one. But it does begin to ride that line of discrimination based on religion, which is a scary line to ride.

Trumps order would halt the issuance of visas to countries where terrorism has some of its deepest roots  Iraq, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

The visa ban is clearly anti-Muslim, as all seven countries specifically named are Muslim-majority, despite the fact that no foreign nationals from these countries have killed an American from 1975-2015, said Eamon Ormseth, a spokesman for SALAM Missoula, a group that provides education about Muslims.

Ormseth called it sadly ironic that the order was signed on Holocaust Remembrance Day, when we remember the many Jews who died at the hands of the Nazi regime for no reason other than their religious identity.

The IRC issued a press release Friday from New York and Washington that called the suspension of the U.S. program a harmful and hasty decision.

America has the strongest, most successful resettlement program in the world, IRC President and CEO David Miliband said. Certified by successive administrations, the U.S. resettlement program makes it harder to get to the United States as a refugee than any other route. This is one of the many reasons to deplore the hast decision made today.

Jack Wiegman of Missoula, who has authored a book called Extremists In Our Midst, applauded Trumps action.

All we have asked for is that the United States have some breathing time to sort out who should and who should not come to this country. After all, this place is full, Wiegman said in an email to the Missoulian. Yes. It might be nice to have no refugees at all but I think that most Americans know that this would not be practical. Populations move constantly.

Meanwhile, SALAM Missoula is planning a Sunday march up Higgins Avenue from Caras Park in solidarity with the Muslim, refugee and immigrant members of our community.

Given the current executive orders targeting Muslim refugees and undocumented immigrants, we want to show that Missoula stands for inclusivity, read an invitation to the march, which begins at 1 p.m.
University of Montana President Sheila Stearns said Friday she asked the Commissioner's Office of Higher Education whether UM may offer early buyouts to personnel.

"It wasn't a formal request at all," Stearns said. "I'm curious. At this point, that would probably be good information to have."

UM announced in fall 2015 it needed to make cuts later estimated at $12 million due to falling enrollment. Last month, Stearns took the helm, and in her midyear update last week, she said the university remains personnel-heavy, with employees comprising 81 percent of the budget.

Planning for the 2018 fiscal year is starting, and Stearns is asking her team to plan for another enrollment drop, saying it's a wise way to budget.

At some point, the president said the question about the university's history with buyouts  or lack thereof  came her way, possibly from a faculty member at a social event. She passed along the question to Commissioner Clayton Christian.

"In a month or so, I bet I've had 100 questions, or 200 questions, for the commissioner," Stearns said.

The commissioner noted the "buyout" question on his calendar. The Missoula Independent reported the inquiry from Stearns, noting news of the entry came out of a public records request it made.

Deputy commissioner of communications Kevin McRae said Friday he plans to begin a conversation with human resources and legal staff to see if he can present any buyout options to Stearns. He said state government has used early retirement incentives, but the buyout concept has some complications.

"We might not recommend any type of an early retirement buyout program," McRae said.

In her midyear update, Stearns said she would like to see personnel account for closer to 70 percent of the UM budget, but she will be satisfied to see the the dial move to the high 70s.

The president said Friday she would not speculate on whether layoffs or buyouts will be part of the 2018 budget. But she said the budget planning team is sure to have a variety of suggestions, and it's common sense to explore options.

"Nothing is on the table. Nothing is off the table. (We are) just getting started on working pretty hard on the 2018 budget plan," Stearns said.

In doing so, she also also said UM must honor its union contracts.

Last school year's budget fallout included reductions of 192 full-time positions and 27 layoffs, according to UM. By comparison, then-President Engstrom announced in fall 2015 that UM would need to cut 201 full-time jobs  52 faculty posts and 149 other positions.
CASPER, Wyo.  Wyoming lawmakers are considering raising the state's minimum hourly wage from $5.15 to $9.50.

KTWO-AM reports that the bill introduced last week in the state House of Representative would also increase tipped minimum hourly wages from $2.13 to $5.50.

The proposal would allow employers to pay a training wage of at least $7.50 to employees who have been working for less than six months.

The bill is sponsored by Rep. James Byrd, D-Cheyenne, and has been referred to the House Labor Committee.
DEER LODGE  A man pleaded not guilty in Deer Lodge district court this week to felony charges of criminal possession of dangerous drugs and three counts of assault with a weapon.

According to court records, in late September, police received a complaint that William Colter Lowery, 21, had threatened a 16-year-old boy with a knife. The boy was walking home when Lowery picked him up, and, instead of taking the boy home, drove to his garage and allegedly offered him a drug to smoke. The boy told officers that when he smoked the drug, his fingers tingled, he had trouble breathing, his body started shaking, and he felt numb all over. He became scared and again requested a ride home. Eventually Lowery drove him home but allegedly pulled up his shirt to display a knife and threatened him not to say anything about drugs given him, saying he would never speak again.

In December, a teenage girl told police that Lowery had pulled a gun on her friend, a 17-year-old male.

According to the record, in late November, Lowery and another individual were driving when Lowery allegedly became paranoid about people being narcs and accused the individual of telling on him. At that time, Lowery allegedly pulled a pistol out of the door pocket of the truck and threatened the individual. Lowery calmed down and a little while later, while driving around, they picked up a 17-year-old boy. Lowery allegedly became agitated again and pointed the pistol at the boys head asking, Can I trust you?

If found to be guilty, Lowery could be sentenced to from two years to life in prison on the drug charge and 20 years in prison for each of the assault charges in addition to a total of up to $200,000 in fines. He is in jail on $25,000 bond.

In other court proceedings:

 Brian Alex Campbell, 27, of Deer Lodge pleaded not guilty to felony possession of dangerous drugs, methamphetamine, and misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia. He is in jail on $10,000 bond but is seeking in-patient drug treatment at Rimrock. Judge Ray Dayton told Campbell he must return to jail if he leaves or completes the program.

 Sunshine Marie Cameron, 35, of Anaconda pleaded guilty to burglary. She admitted she unlawfully entered the residence of Deirdre Holland and took items on July 30, 2015. She could be sentenced to 20 years in prison and fined up to $50,000. Judge Dayton ordered a pre-sentence investigation, noting she was sentenced in Anaconda/Deer Lodge county on related charges.

 Michael Allen Murphy pleaded guilty to transfer of illegal article, chewing tobacco, while an inmate Montana State Prison. Murphy admitted he bought chew from an inmate who allegedly got it from a correctional officer, knowing it was an unlawful article at the prison. He was sentenced to 13 months with all but five months suspended, to be served consecutive to the sentence he is serving for criminal endangerment, and must pay $80 in court fees.
For much of Friday, myriad groups came together to link 150 homeless people with a wide range of services to help ease the way.

It just takes one life circumstance to put you in a homeless position, said Cassie Wick, Montana Independent Living specialist, during Project Service Connect, an annual event at the Maroon Activities Center.

Its also a significant day because nonprofits around the nation gather homeless counts that affect federal funding and other purposes.

Margie Seccomb, Action Inc. executive director and event coordinator, said the day was the National Point in Time Count of People Experiencing Homelessness.

Meanwhile, Action Inc. case managers spread across town to take surveys for the count, too.

Out of that, we will compile our own data, track it ourselves, and send it to the state, Seccomb added. Data goes to the Montana Continuum of Care, which will kick back assessments to Action Inc. in a few months.

Meanwhile, a wide range of people took advantage of free haircuts, dental cleaning, and extractions, plus they received warm clothing like boots, gloves, hats, socks, and pants to protect against the winter chill.

We got a pretty good mix of families with toddlers, single adults, and youth under 20, said Seccomb.

One of the recipients, Ten Bears, 60, pushing a cart full of his belongings in the gym, picked up a new sleeping bag, a blanket, gloves, and socks to tide him over. An Army veteran, he said he came from Miles City to Butte about a month ago.

Various agencies handed out backpacks with food and hygiene kits plus mounds of practical information from housing, health, Social Security, job, and legal services. The Butte school district, Department of Veterans Affairs, Safe Space, AWARE-Early Head Start, and several other organizations had tables set up.

The Butte-Silver Bow Health Department had a lot of visitors to its table, where workers handed out everything from free toothbrushes and condoms to cancer screening surveys.

Its been a great turnout, said Therese Dennehy, Butte-Silver Bow health educator and nurse. "We gave out 10 flu shots. We did 11 HIV and hepatitis C testing.

Prevention Specialist Jim Rozan gave out 15 smokeless tobacco kits and 25 cigarette quit kits.

Ten Bears, grinning wide, had one parting piece of advice for Project Connect organizers:

"Keep doing it; it's awesome," he said.
ALBERTON  A night-long standoff in a mobile home on the west end of this Mineral County town ended without incident Friday morning after a Missoula SWAT team was called to the scene.

Leonard Upton, 33, surrendered and was taken into custody after at around 9:30 a.m., Mineral County Sheriff Tom Bauer said. Upton was charged with two counts of endangerment and one count of assault, all felonies.

Bauer said he was called to Alberton by deputies at 11:30 p.m. Thursday. Upton allegedly got into a disagreement with his wife, who eventually left the trailer and went to her sisters home nearby.

According to Bauer, Upton was agitated and shot out a window in the sisters trailer with a BB gun. He also had a .38 revolver that he pointed at some people, Bauer said.

Sheriffs deputies established a perimeter around the house, turned off the power, and attempted to negotiate with Upton.

He poked his head out a few times, the last time about 3:30 this morning, Bauer said. We had no contact after that, so at probably 5 or 6 (a.m.) I spoke with Missoula County Undersheriff Jason Johnson and requested a SWAT team to come.

The Special Weapons and Tactics team arrived at around 8 a.m. and nearby residences were evacuated at around 9 a.m. Upton surrendered 30 minutes later.

Bauer said the sheriffs office is familiar with Upton, who had several scrapes with the law when he lived in St. Regis. This was the first run-in with him in Alberton, the sheriff said.
Lisa G. Powell

MCC Instructor of English

For my Fall 2016 Composition I course, I had students write a two-page double-spaced paper telling a story about how they joined a group or realized they were a part of a group. The idea was for students to attempt to organize a short narrative as well as begin to consider writing an "auto-ethnography" -- a self-study and reflection of how one belongs or fits in with a larger cultural or social group and the implications this has on society as a whole.

I typically try to have students develop long papers, but for this paper, I wanted them to have the task of keeping the writing short and tight. The essays turned out wonderful. Many of the students were quite moved by the stories of their peers. The stories ranged from joining a tribal cultural group in Liberia, to joining church groups in the states, to students expressing how they straddle two or more cultures, to deciding to attend college and choose a career.

I found that these essays really showed something special about the diverse student population that we have at MCC, and I wanted to share my students hard work with the community.

The first essay is written by Sophia Sandoval on Growing Closer to God. The second is from Andreina Morales on "Because of Her".

Sophia Sandoval

Growing Closer to God

Eventually it was my choice to join Christianity. I never heard my mom say we're going to church but we always ended up in those uncomfortable benches on Sunday mornings. When I was little, it felt forced. I had to wear a dress even though I hated them. When the church sang I had to stay standing even though I wanted to sit. I had to go up to the altar even though I had nothing to pray about.

Every adult in the church was programmed the same. They all had the same emotions. They smiled the same, they cried the same and were angry at all the same things. Adults wanted to control the children. Mothers would yell Say that, dont say this listen to what theyre saying dont listen to that conversation Stand up Sit down. That is what I thought being a Christian was: following the rules set by God or go to hell.

As I grew up I felt more of an outcast with people outside who werent forced to church. My friends talked about their first kiss, pop and rap music, and sleepovers they had at each others places, while I had no idea what they were talking about. The language my peers used was different from mine. I had never even heard of some of the bad words they were using. People even treated me differently, adults were always too nice to me, and other kids my age did not include me in their conversation. They did not want to offend me. Christianity kept a wedge between us and the rest of the world.

Being a little older, around 13, I got more involved with the church because it became a custom by this point. I started going to the youth group for high school students and made some friends. One particular friend, Izbet had a similar background as me. She grew up in the church, felt different from her own friends, and we had similar topics to talk about. Having people who felt like an outcast just as much as I did helped me connect more with them than my friends outside the church.

A retreat for the youth group was coming up where we went to stay at Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. It was fall so the air was crisp and calming and I decided to go. I wanted to get away for a while and be around my new group of friends. During the day we had small groups. We got to be relaxed and didnt have to sit down, shut up and listen. I learned more that day than I did as a child. I learned how God did not care about rules but how we showed his love and compassion. I learned from the church not to judge each other but help each other. In the evening we had a time of contemporary worship with Christian music that was popular at that time. The room became alive. Music of encouragement blasted through the speakers. The pastor passionately prayed for our youth. Some held their hands in the air singing while others on their knees praying with tears of joy. Then above all the noise I heard the pastor say, If anyone wishes to have a relationship with God please raise your hand.

I raised my hand.

I felt a huge weight lifted off my shoulders. As I looked around I saw many others that just did the same as me but with different reactions. Some of us were smiling from ear to ear, others were silent taking it all in, and other crying even more tears of joy It was not forced. No one told me I had to raise my hand. It was all me. Growing up I thought the I had to be forced into this group. Christianity is not a religion, a set of rules to be followed. But a choice to have a relationship, growing closer to God.

Andreina Morales

Because of Her

I had a simple plan after graduation. Graduate, start a medical career in the National Guard, jump out of planes to help the wounded overseas, make it home, and go to Nursing School. Eventually I believed I would get married, but I didnt want kids because Id be to focused on the military and my medical career. Children are a responsibility that I didnt want, I wanted to have my own life and not be like my parents who I watched go and come back from a meat factory job that they hated but were obligated to go because they had children to support, my mom was tired of smelling like dead swine and my father was miserable of not being able to move up from his job. They settled for their children, and I couldnt let that happen to me.

I graduated from High School with a 3.5, but I didnt go to the National Guard, I put off going to college, so I could go work at the meat factory. Why? I got pregnant.

I was upset with myself because I said I wouldnt be like my parents. I felt like I betrayed myself because where I came from when a young girl became pregnant thats all she became. I couldnt believe I let myself down, I believed I was more than that statistical young pregnant teenager.

The disappointment lacerated my dignity like the sharp knife I used to slash parts of the pig before it was tossed onto the conveyor belt to go who knows where.

I started to look at my options. My family is Catholic so abortion was out, adoption seemed like a great idea, but my mother cried every time I mentioned it. The pressure grew more intense when my family would chime in, for example my Aunt Carmen would say when I was your age I worked on a farm, made homemade food for my husband, and had two children I raised by myself, so you should be able to do this easily! What she forgot to mention was her level of education did not pass the 6th grade, her husband was a drunk, and her children were dope dealers who were in and out of jail since the age of 13. My father would say You said you were not stupid, but now we know your stupid. Nothing they said was helpful, just plain depressing and aggravating.

The day came when I couldnt manage the stress anymore. I decided to go to a parenting class. I needed to have an idea of what the heck I was getting myself into. I walked into a small building and was greeted by a woman with dark brown hair, her voice was very sweet and humble like my mothers as she presented me to the rest of the young women and men who were there for the same reasons as me. I built a friendship with these people because unlike my family they didnt judge me, they listened to me. Everything was positive from the moment that I walked into the building, the way I was greeted like an adult, introduced like an individual. I wasnt being compared to other girls like most people try to do when they give you advise.

Going to these parenting classes made me realize that just because I was going to be a MOM a MOM was not all I can become. They provided information and resources on how to move forward from working in meat factory to going to school.

We welcomed a beautiful, belle, with big, beautiful, walnut shaped eyes. Seeing her and hearing her newborn cries made me realize that I was no longer scared of becoming a mom, but motivated me to push forward with going to school to pursue my nursing degree.

Because of her, I would not become like my parents and settle, because of her I could not use excuses like those other girls who got pregnant at a young age like me, because of her I put my pride to the side and opened my mind and asked for help from people other than my family.

Being in those parenting classes taught me to have faith in myself and I will always have faith in myself to succeed in whatever I do because of her.
MUSCATINE, Iowa  Chef Steve Hall is teaching a new class with Muscatine Community College, to help students improve their cooking skills and earn certification as chefs.

The culinary arts program is being taught at the old button factory in Muscatine, formerly the Button Factory Woodfire Grille, and will be modeled after the program that has been in place at Scott Community College for about 20 years.

Hall will bring experience cooking dishes around the world and the U.S. to his classes. His father was in the U.S. Air Force, so he traveled to several countries and spent time with family in Turkey, where food, Hall said, was a large focus.

Between the international travel and living in a more urban society and having a mother who is from another country, you kind of look at things a little differently, he said. So growing up food was a big thing, food was important.

After his family settled in Illinois, Hall attended college and pursued a Bachelors degree in restaurant and hotel management because at the time, he said, there were only two chef schools in the U.S.

Sitting in a meet and greet in Muscatine and greeting kids who were interested in the program, I remembered I had this realization when I was 20 I should get in the restaurant business, this is what my dream is, he said.

After graduation Hall started working with the French Club Med, cooking meals in a large kitchen for many people at a time, and learned to speak both French and Spanish when he traveled with the company to Mexico.

I learned how to coexist, he said. We had one common goal: prepare food for 600 people for breakfast, lunch and dinner in a French style in a Mexican setting.

He came back to the U.S. and eventually went to work in restaurants in the Quad Cities, managing kitchens and cooking at places like Thunder Bay Grille and Johnnys Italian Steakhouse.

When Hall was managing a kitchen, he had the opportunity to help teach and hire students from the Scott Community College culinary arts program.

Now it wasnt just about having an employee, it was about having student, he said. Student means maybe less experienced, but student also means very eager, very willing, and a lot of passion.

Hall hopes students in Muscatine will feel that same drive he saw in some of the first students he mentored.

Thats what we have to always have, and thats why this program is starting in Muscatine, he said.

While learning from peers and starting by cooking at a restaurant can be good experience, Hall said, he looks forward to giving students a glimpse of what working in the industry will mean for them.

But I know that what I am going to provide is just a lot of insight into the goings on of the kitchen and how to really prepare yourself to work in a kitchen, he said.

That preparation will be assisted, Hall said, by the location of the classes. Learning skills in the building with rich Muscatine history as an old button factory, Hall said, and a kitchen that was once regularly used to serve guests in the restaurant, will help them learn what working in a restaurant kitchen will be like.

So thats what were going to teach is not only to continue their love for cooking and show them so many different things in the culinary world," Hall said, "but how to prepare them in the kitchen setting successfully, partnering with restaurants that would possibly hire our students.
CHEYENNE, Wyo.  A state House committee has endorsed a bill to help deal with the expected onslaught of visitors coming to Wyoming to view the total solar eclipse on Aug. 21.

The House Travel, Recreation, Wildlife and Cultural Resources Committee endorsed an amended version of House Bill 187 on a 5-4 vote Friday. The bill likely will go next to the House Appropriations Committee.

State Homeland Security Director Guy Cameron estimates about 350,000 people could visit the state just to watch the first total solar eclipse to be seen from the mainland U.S. in almost four decades.

The bill sponsored by Republican Rep. Dan Zwonitzer, of Cheyenne, would appropriate $100,000 for state grants to help local governments handle extra costs associated with the eclipse.

Zwonitzer said his intention is to "provide some money to local governments for the once-in-a-lifetime event because I'm just not sure that our infrastructure is going to adequately prepare for everything."

"And certainly planning will help but if we have a cloudy night in Idaho or Nebraska and you get 200,000 people driving at 2 a.m. into our state because it's clear here ... people will say, 'Hey why wasn't there any planning or why wasn't there money or why didn't we think that there may be cars lined up and down the interstate for a hundred miles and a traffic jam that lasted three days," he said.

Under the bill, the state Office of Homeland Security would award the grants.

Cameron said his office would consider issues such as whether a city, town or county needs additional help with security or cleanup costs.

A couple of committee members thought $100,000 wasn't enough money, but the panel declined to boost the amount.

The committee also voted to strip a provision of the bill allowing the governor to authorize up to eight hours of administrative leave for state employees on that day.

Solar eclipses, which happen when the moon passes directly between the Earth and sun, are not rare, but they seldom happen in such easily accessible places.

In Wyoming , prime viewing of the eclipse will run across the state from Jackson in the northwest, through Casper and down through Glendo State Park in the southeast part of the state.
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